Jobs: WSDOT Records Officer

Tuesday, November 20, 2018

WSDOT Shoreline has an opening for an Access Control and Records Officer 
Opening Date: 11/20/2018
Closing Date: Open until filled

We are looking for an Access Control and Records Officer (Forms and Records Analyst 3) to join the Northwest Region! This position makes independent decisions on public disclosure requests and records management, manages badge and security procedures, and contributes to region policy decisions in those areas of responsibility.

Because this position will be in direct support of Public Disclosure Request (PDRs), a successful candidate will have an aptitude for prioritizing tasks and adhering to confidentiality protocols.

This position is open until filled; the first resume review will take place on December 4th. To view the entire posting and apply, visit Access Control and Records Officer


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Republic Services Thanksgiving schedule in LFP

Republic Services collection truck
The Republic Services collection schedule is revised for the Thanksgiving holiday. No collection will take place on Thursday, November 22, 2018. 

Customers with a Thursday pick-up schedule are advised to put their carts out on Friday, November 23, 2018. Customers with a Friday pick-up schedule are advised to put their carts out on Saturday, November 24, 2018.

The regular collection schedule resumes on Monday, November 26, 2018.

The Republic Services administrative offices are closed on November 22, 2018 and reopen on Friday, November 23, 2018.



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Notes from Shoreline City Council meeting Nov 19

Front row, from left: Deputy Mayor Jesse Salomon, Mayor Will Hall
Back row, from left: Doris McConnell, Chris Roberts, Keith Scully, Keith McGlashan, Susan Chang


City Council Meeting November 19, 2018
By Pam Cross

Mayor Hall called the meeting to order at 7:00pm. Councilmember McConnell was excused for personal reasons.

Report of the City Manager Debbie Tarry

Last Friday, Nov 16, the Shoreline Police shared a dinner with food provided by members of the Mosque of the Islamic Community of Bosniaks.

A Happy Thanksgiving is wished for all. Remember City Hall, Spartan Recreation Center, and the Shoreline Pool will be closed on Thursday and Friday, Nov 22nd and 23rd.

Council Reports

Councilmember McGlashan - Sound Transit announced today that they secured 1.2B in FTA dollars (Federal Transit Administration) which represents about 40% of the Northgate to Lynnwood Link Light Rail. This is subject to a 30 day congressional review which it is expected to pass.

Councilmember Roberts - Last week he attended the Sound Cities Assn Public Issues Committee (PIC) Meeting and they adopted their 2019 legislative priorities which broadly included an amendment suggested by Mayor Hall. He also attended a lengthy nominating committee meeting for the PIC representative to the Sound Cities Assn Board with results to be reported within the next week or so.

Public Comments

Richard Miller stated concern that the new construction at Parkwood Plaza may not be ADA compliant (needing ramp). Mayor asked that a City Staff member speak to him personally.

Several speakers offered comments regarding the proposed Aquatics and Community Center swimming pool (Susie McDowell, Lyn Sherry, Angie Nouwens, Vicky Jaquish and Terry Goldstick). They stated, among other things, the need for an 8-lane pool in an L-shape in order to provide a diving area as well as an adequate number of lap lanes. Without this, the pool would be too small for school competitions, and Shoreline schools may have to change swimming from a “no-cut” sport due to lack of room. This would mean not all students could compete regardless of skill level. Also needed is adequate deck and viewing areas. The larger size will support greater overall use of the pool resulting in increased revenue.

The Agenda and Consent Calendars were approved unanimously.

Action Item 8 (a) Public Hearing on the Proposed 2019-2020 Biennial Budget and the 2019-2024 Capital Improvement Plan

Staff gave very brief overview of revenue and expenditures

Public Comments

Bruce Amundson restated his request from the last Council Meeting for additional funding for the installation of a completed public sculpture, thanking Councilmember Roberts for introducing the amendment.

He also mentioned the 6-year plan adopted last year by the parks department, that included a plan to create Aurora as an “Avenue of Art” by placing large-scale dynamic sculptures along the corridor on public and private land. This would set Shoreline apart from other cities’ use of Aurora. He would like to move ahead with this over the next few years.

Roger Feldman, Herb Bryce, Rick Leary, Eric Swenson, Lorie Hoffman, and Elana Winsberg are, among other things, active members of the Shoreline arts community and all supported the 50k expenditure. They also spoke of public art as an indication of what Shoreline is and wants to be as a city, that the personality of a city is judged by its backing of education and art, that art has a broad appeal to all ages because it tells a story, makes you feel, and is not language specific. Both Edmonds and Seattle have neighborhood art. Shoreline currently lacks some of the vibrancy that art can offer.

James Pabiniak, the Hopelink Food Bank Supervisor, thanked the City for its continued support of Hopelink.

Public hearing closed.

Action Item 8 (b) Adopting Ordinance No. 842 - Setting the 2019 Regular and Excess Property Tax Levies
Staff Report: Rick Kirkwood

Summary of figures presented:


2019 Regular Levy
13,301,684
Less 2018 Levy
(12,820,999)
Less New Construction
(60,156)
Less Refunds
0
Total Increase
420,529
Percent Increase
3.28%


This is based on the most recent information available. Final numbers have not yet been certified by the County. The Action taken today by the Council sets the Dollar and Percentage Increase for the levy.

In addition to the regular levy, there is the excess levy of $1.7M which pays the debt service for the 2006 parks bond. The levy rate for this should drop to about 16 cents.

Council Comments:

Mayor Hall asked for clarification, since property values are going up, why isn’t the City getting a lot more money based on the increased values? Then why is the rate going up?

Rick Kirkwood explains that it is a very complex formula “there is really an inverse relationship between the city’s total assessed valuation as a whole, as it goes up then the levy rate typically goes down, you’re changing the numerator and the denominator in the equation…”

Other variables in determining the rate include School Levies and last year’s increase due to the McCleary Decision.

The assessed property values are used to distribute the tax burden.
The Regular Levy is the tax burden or City budget.


The Levy Rate is calculated by dividing the budget (levy) by all the assessed values (AV)

If the budget (levy) is 100,000 and total property values are 1,000,000,000
100,000/1,000,000,000 = .10 per 1,000 AV
A house valued at 300,000 x .10 per 1,000 AV = $30

If the budget stays the same, but the AV increases 10%
100,000/1,100,000,000 AV = .0909 per 1,000 AV
A house now valued at 330,000 x .0909 per 1,000 AV = $30

The rate has gone down, but the assessed value of the home is higher, resulting in no reduction in taxes.
Simplified rate example/pac

Ordinance 842 was adopted unanimously.

Action Item 8 (c) Adopting Ordinance No. 841 - Adopting the 2019-2020 Biennial Budget, the 2019 Fee Schedule, the 2019 Salary Schedules, and the 2019-2024 Capital Improvement Plan
Sara Lane briefly introduced the ordinance

Since there have been multiple discussions regarding this Ordinance, including a question matrix, Council will proceed with proposed Amendments.

Councilmember Roberts would like the following previously mentioned items flagged to be addressed at a later date:
  1. Parking studies of all neighborhood business districts
  2. The use of windowed envelopes for business correspondence when the plastic film strips need to be removed in order to recycle
  3. A review of the City Reserve policy. Perhaps this would be appropriate at the Council Retreat.

Councilmember Scully introduced Potential Amendment #1 to reduce the General Appropriations by eliminating the 10k expense for the Greater Seattle Partners investment contribution. This was proposed by Mayor Hall. Councilmember McGlashan agrees now it is too focused on Seattle rather than on the tri-county region. We don’t have space for really large companies like Microsoft or Amazon, however we could certainly find space if it were brought to us. He supports the amendment until we know more about their focus.

Councilmember Chang feels we don’t know what this group will do once it is up and running beyond developing its own organization. Councilmember Roberts states that the Sound Cities Organization wants an advisory committee made up of cities like Shoreline to provide input. He prefers waiting until we get a better sense of how the organization will proceed, rather than leaving now and changing our minds later. The Mayor stated he sat on the board of the two predecessor organizations and after five years of seeing no benefit to Shoreline, he stepped down from the board. The Mayor said we talk about these small amounts of taxpayer money spent for these various member organizations. Some are more useful than others. He finds this one duplicative.

Roberts says if the City keeps paying, Staff will continue to work to see what they are all about. City Manager Terry agrees if it were removed from the budget, they would not consider it a priority. Mayor says staff and council would always be open to discussing it.

Chang prefers to be in favor of until usefulness is determined.

The Council voted 4-2 in favor of Amendment to eliminate the 10k expense for the Greater Seattle Partners investment contribution and remove it from the budget. (Roberts and Chang against)

Councilmember Roberts moved to add frontage improvements to the northside of NE 200th across from Aldercrest School. It is being remodeled and will have some frontage improvements but not full sidewalks. We need to add it in as an unfunded project to the TIP and CIP so the staff can look for Safe Schools grants.

Scully is not supporting. The Sidewalks Priority list has already been made and this didn’t make the list. It should be included in a future sidewalk review using the priority list.

Chang asked how Safe Routes to Schools. (SRS) fits in with the Sidewalk Prioritization Program.

Tricia Juhnke, City Engineer, says SRS is reviewed every two years. The Sidewalk Prioritization program is a separate review so even if this sidewalk doesn’t rank high enough for city funding, it will still be reviewed for SRS. With or without the amendment, these reviews will proceed.

City can apply for SRS whether or not it’s in the TIP but it’s nice to have. The TIP will be updated in the spring.

Roberts withdrew the motion for further discussion next spring.

Roberts moves to amend the budget to increase general fund appropriations to add 51K to the public arts fund for installation of the public art project. Councilmembers Scully and Salomon spoke in favor of the amendment. Chang requested clarification that the 1% arts fund is depleted and this transfer from the general fund will allow the City to move forward with this project and still support the public arts coordinator position through the next Biennium. They are planning to do an evaluation to identify a sustainable funding source for public arts fund. Chang supports this amendment to honor the work of all the people who volunteered and spent their time developing it.

Chang also commented she favors the idea of the physical art along Aurora. City Manager Terry stated the current art plan does not include the funding for multiple pieces of sculpture along Aurora but this could be part of phasing in when a new source of sustainable funding is identified.

McGlashan commented on the Artwalk in Colorado Springs - this an excellent idea although not something we can fund. He requested confirmation that the amount is 51k in lieu of 50k (correct), that this is one-time funding (correct) and is adequate (correct). He supports finding a more sustainable source of funding.

Mayor Hall wants to know how to engage the philanthropic and benefactor communities in the city of Shoreline. He has been at the Aquarium as well as other institutions in Seattle and sees benefactors who live in Shoreline. He would like to find a way to encourage the benefactors who live in Shoreline to provide some of these gifts to Shoreline as well as Seattle.

The amendment passes unanimously.

Action Item 8 (d) Adopting Ordinance No. 848 - Amending Shoreline Municipal Code Chapter 3.80 Impact Fees for Transportation to Provide for a New Index for Periodic Adjustments of Fees
Staff report Rick Kirkwood

Makes consistent the application of Engineering News Record Construction Cost Index to Impact Fees

Adopted unanimously without discussion.

The Meeting was adjourned.



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Dahlias for Seniors 2018 Wrap-Up - a Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Center Fundraiser


Text and Photos by John Hibbs

With the warm October-November we’re having, my 100 dahlia plants are still producing lovely blossoms, though the blossoms don’t last as long in a bouquet and the colors are a little faded from peak.

On schedule, most of the 4-5’ plants are drooping, browning here and there, and turning silver with mildew, sure signs of autumn decline. Many who dig the tubers up for winter are waiting for a first hard frost that will stimulate a “hardening”, giving them more durability out of ground.

None of this is set in stone – it’s now the usual time to dig and separate and the Puget Sound Dahlia Association took their tubers from the ground in Seattle’s Volunteer Park last Saturday.

I just like to wait for a frost; but if one doesn’t come, say, by mid-December I’ll just take them up anyway. Next step after that, for those of you learning to grow dahlias, will be to weed and turn the ground, then cover with about 2” manure that will percolate nutrients down with winter’s drizzle, replacing nitrogen, minerals and vitamins.

But enough about gardening! The Dahlias for Seniors 2018 fundraiser was a smashing success!

Our best friend and partner, the Ridgecrest Public House (Megan Kogut proprietor), once again sold most of the bouquets delivered between late July and mid-October.

Thank you all for supporting your Shoreline –Lake Forest Park Senior Center by buying bouquets!

We had so many dahlia-loving followers coming back from last season and snapping up bouquets that in August we added a third weekly delivery to the Pub.

And Ms. Kogut, best friend and partner, again matched all donations. In total, drum roll please, the Ridgecrest Pub generated $1500 this year for the Senior Center!

With S-LFPSC management consensus, I decided to try a first this year -- selling the dahlias for donations from the Senior Center’s reception desk.

I stocked extra vases, buckets, plastic bags, rubber bands, flower preserver -- and wondered what would happen.

I’m thrilled to say the dahlia blossoms sold so well from the Senior Center I again needed to add a third weekly delivery.

With much help from Senior Center volunteers we sold another $1100!

Our grand total raised comes to $2600, a personal best.

Thank you so much to all flower lovers, Center personnel, Megan and the RPH, my social networkers, and the Shoreline Area News.

We have a thriving Senior Center in Shoreline. It’s full of interesting people weekdays, especially around lunchtime-midday. If you haven’t visited, please do; and perhaps have a rewarding conversation or two. Or play ping pong. Or learn to knit. Or hula. Or get free financial counseling. You get the picture. See you next dahlia season!




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Black Friday marks the kick-off for extra DUI Patrols

Fatal accident on SR 522
Photo by Trooper Rick Johnson
On Friday November 23 the Washington State Patrol, and multiple other police agencies will be kicking off the annual holiday season DUI Emphasis patrols in King county. 

As of October 31, 2018 there have been 41 people killed in collisions in King county. Impairment from alcohol and/or drugs is believed to be a factor in many of these life taking collisions.

This holiday season the WSP, in conjunction with local police agencies, is dedicated to increasing DUI patrols in an effort to make our roadways safer, remove impaired drivers, and do their best to ensure families stay safe.

We recognize that the holidays are a time of celebrations, parties, and family get togethers. The focus of the increased patrols is to remove impaired drivers and reduce/deter collision causing driving behaviors by increasing the number of officers on our roads.

The WSP urges everyone who is joining in the festivities to do so responsibly, and make great decisions. Whether you’re a driver or a passenger you need to decide to not drive impaired, or ride with an impaired driver. This vital decision can save yours, or someone else’s, life.


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Planning for driving retirement - Tuesday workshop on transportation independence

Monday, November 19, 2018


Tuesday, November 20, 2018, 10:30 - 11:45am at the Shoreline - Lake Forest Park Senior Center, 18560 1st Ave NE, Shoreline 98155.

Learn how to safely travel around Shoreline without a car.

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Recology talks Turkey to Shoreline residents

Recology truck
Recology CleanScapes Announces Thanksgiving Holiday Collection Schedule 

Recology Cleanscapes provides garbage, recycling and compost collection service to the residents and businesses in the City of Shoreline.

Recology does not provide collection service on Thursday, November 22 due to the Thanksgiving holiday

Customers who normally receive service on Thursdays will be collected on Friday, November 23, and customers who normally receive service on Fridays will be collected on Saturday, November 24. 

More information about holiday collection schedules HERE

Tips for a More Sustainable Holiday

The US EPA estimates that 33% more food is thrown away during the holidays. With a bit of proactive planning, you can waste less, save money and incorporate sustainable behaviors into your holiday traditions. Try some of our suggestions below for a more sustainable holiday season:
  • Use an event food calculator to get a better idea of how much food is sufficient for your holiday gathering. 
  • Swap disposable service ware (plastic utensils, paper napkins, plastic wrap, aluminum foil) for durable alternatives this holiday season. 
  • Compost all food scraps (that includes turkey bones!) or look up a recipe to use your Thanksgiving leftovers in creative ways. 

Visit recology.com/shoreline for more information about collection schedules, service updates, and tips for reducing waste at home, work and school.

Recology Cleanscapes is a subsidiary of Recology, an employee-owned company that sees a world without waste, where resources are used and re-used in a sustainable ecosystem that strives for their best and highest use.



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Dembowski secures funding for innovative law enforcement RADAR program


From left: Bothell Police Sgt. John Rogers, LFP City Manager Phillip Hill, Bothell Police Chief Carol Cummings, LFP Police Chief Steve Sutton, Shoreline Police Chief Shawn Ledford, Shoreline Mayor Will Hall, King County Councilmember Rod Dembowski, Bothell Master Police Officer Brett Bernard, Bothell City Manager Jennifer Phillips, Kirkland Police Chief Cherie Harris, Kenmore City Manager Rob Karlinsky, Shoreline City Manager Debbie Tarry, and Shoreline Superintendent of Schools Rebecca Miner.



Adopted last week, King County’s 2019-20 biennial budget includes significant investment in North King County’s Response, Awareness, De-escalation and Referral (RADAR) program, which helps build a bridge between law enforcement and mental health services. (See previous article)

Councilmember Rod Dembowski worked to secure $780,000 to support this program and the collaboration between the cities of Shoreline, Bothell, Lake Forest Park, Kirkland, and Kenmore.

RADAR partners police officers with mental health professionals to help people in need who are experiencing a mental health crisis, suffering from substance abuse, or struggling with homelessness, and connect them to the proper services.

This pairing allows the mental health professional to identify a need for social services and gives the officer an alternative to sending a person to the emergency room or jail, improving outcomes for many individuals and reducing the burden on our healthcare and criminal justice systems.

Mental health professionals can quickly assess the need, and officers schedule follow-up and dedicate time for outreach. The program also provides officers with relevant information on high risk individuals suffering from mental illness prior to contact, to help police better attempt de-escalation and avoid misunderstandings. 

Mental health professionals can also coordinate with schools to connect students and families to services, and integrate kids back into school, in cases where they have been affected by a person in crisis.

In its first year in Shoreline, RADAR program outreach has reduced repeat calls for service, and of the 147 contacts made, 83% of people accepted resources or assistance.

“The Shoreline Police Department has had success with RADAR in handling calls for service, where no force was used to de-escalate the situation, connect people to services and to gain trust with an individual and family members,” said Chief Shawn V. Ledford of the Shoreline Police Department. 
“Having access to a mental health professional and expanding this program is a partnership that’s working and would not have happened without the support of Councilmember Rod Dembowski.”

For more information on RADAR, contact Shoreline Police Chief Shawn Ledford, at 206-801-2711.


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Northwest Neighbors Network "Coffee with Neighbors" Saturday

Northwest Neighbors Network is a nonprofit organization formed to help seniors age in place in South Snohomish and North King counties.

The group is hosting its monthly “Coffee with Neighbors” this Saturday November 24th from 10:30 to 11:30am at Third Place Commons in Lake Forest Park.

The Commons is on the upper level of Town Center, intersection of Bothell and Ballinger Way in Lake Forest Park. 

Stop by to find out about signing on as a member or volunteer (or both). For more information, see the website or look for us on Facebook.

Fans of the Village Movement young and old will be pleased to learn that we are heading into the homestretch! We are interviewing prospective members and volunteers and plan to begin offering services in early 2019.



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Third Place Knit / Book group knits and delivers 100 hats

There are 100 knit hats in this bag
Photo by Sis Polin
The Third Place LFP Knit/Book group already met their annual goal of 200 hats and scarves for those in need (see previous article) - but there's really no reason to stop knitting!

The Third Place Knit and Book group meets regularly at a table in The Commons on the upper level of Town Center in Lake Forest Park. They knit or crochet while they discuss their chosen book of the month.

On Monday, they delivered 100 hats and scarves to Youth Care and Mary’s Place.

Thank you to Third Place Books for sponsoring this annual program and thank you to those who knitted and crocheted: 

  • Third Place Books/Knit knitters
  • Mountlake Terrace Independent Senior knitters 
  • Aljoa Senior Knitters 
  • Summit Senior Knitters 

If you know of a local organization that could use this assistance, contact the knitters.



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Holiday Pet Food Drive to benefit the Seattle Area Feline Rescue

Cats Exclusive Veterinary Center in Shoreline is holding its annual pet food drive from now through December 22, 2018.

During this season of giving please include on your list those pets in need.

The Seattle Area Feline Rescue is a local non-profit shelter, located in Shoreline, helping homeless cats and kittens find new homes.

Bring in cat food of any kind and help fill the collection barrel located in the lobby of Cats Exclusive.

For each pound donated now through December 22nd, Cats Exclusive will match your donation, pound for pound.

Cats Exclusive Veterinary Center, 19203 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline 98133, 206-546-2287



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Photo: Potpourri of Autumn Leaves

Photo by Victoria Gilleland


Witch Hazel, Oak and Big Leaf Hydrangea, Red Bud Hazel, and an array of Vine and Japanese Maple leaves with winged seeds set the tone for this year's fall color.

--Victoria Gilleland




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AG Ferguson’s 15th consecutive legal victory against federal government forces FERC to hand over public records

FERC will pay $23,500 in response to Ferguson’s lawsuit over FOIA request

As a result of Attorney General Bob Ferguson’s lawsuit, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has provided hundreds of pages of communications not previously made public, including documents that show commissioners privately considered a proposal that would have subsidized coal- and nuclear-based power. FERC must pay $23,500 in attorney costs and fees to the Washington State Attorney General’s Office.

This is Ferguson’s 15th consecutive legal victory against the federal government since President Donald Trump took office. The state of Washington has not lost a case against the federal government since January 2017.

In November 2017, the Attorney General’s Office submitted a federal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request asking for emails, text messages and other written communications among FERC commissioners during a tumultuous time at the agency. The request covered periods in which FERC failed to have a quorum, failed to hold any public meetings, and considered a proposal from the Department of Energy that would have subsidized coal- and nuclear-based power and upended energy markets. Ferguson’s request sought to make the commission’s communications available to the public.

“The public has a right to know what their officials are doing,” said Ferguson. “Transparency is an essential part of our democracy. It’s unfortunate we had to take the federal government to court to get the answers we deserve.”

Over several months in 2017, FERC failed to hold any public meetings on the issues it considered. One request from the Department of Energy proposed subsidizing coal and nuclear power, which Ferguson asserts would have upended energy markets. Despite the impact this request could have had on the majority of U.S. residents, the commission did not hold public meetings for several months, preventing the public from knowing which proposals the commission considered.

On Nov. 22, 2017, Ferguson submitted a FOIA request for all communications among commission members from Nov. 1, 2016 through Nov. 22, 2017. A response from the federal commission was due by Dec. 27, 2017. The Attorney General’s Office waited for several weeks after the deadline passed, but did not receive the requested materials or any communication from the commission.

When the Attorney General did not receive any documents, he filed a lawsuit, asking the court to require FERC to provide all communications required under the federal Freedom of Information Act.

As a result of Ferguson’s lawsuit, FERC has provided all requested communications (found here). The Attorney General’s Office will determine if further action is necessary.

Counsel for Environmental Protection chief Bill Sherman is leading the case. In 2016, Ferguson created the Counsel for Environmental Protection to protect our environment and the safety and health of all Washingtonians.

Ferguson has filed 32 lawsuits against the Trump Administration and has not lost a case. Ferguson now has 15 legal victories against the federal government since President Trump assumed office. Nine of those cases are finished and cannot be appealed. The Trump Administration has appealed or may appeal the other six, which include lawsuits involving Dreamers, 3D-printed guns and the transgender military ban.

No court to rule on the merits of the Attorney General’s arguments in a lawsuit against the Trump Administration has ruled against Washington state.



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Shoreline council meeting Monday

Shoreline City Hall
Photo by Steven H. Robinson
Shoreline City Council Regular Meeting, November 19, 2018, 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Council Chamber at Shoreline City Hall, 17500 Midvale Ave N, Shoreline 98133

Agenda Highlights:
  • Approval of the Alternative Services Demonstration Project Agreement Between King County Metro, the City of Shoreline and the City of Lake Forest Park (Public Works)
  • Public Hearing on the Proposed 2019-2020 Biennial Budget and the 2019-2024 Capital Improvement Plan (Administrative Services)
  • Adoption of Ordinance No. 842 - Setting the 2019 Regular and Excess Property Tax Levies (Administrative Services)
  • Adoption of Ordinance No. 841 - Adopting the 2019-2020 Biennial Budget, the 2019 Fee Schedule, the 2019 Salary Schedules, and the 2019-2024 Capital Improvement Plan (Administrative Services)
  • Adoption of Ordinance No. 848 - Amending Shoreline Municipal Code Chapter 3.80 Impact Fees for Transportation to Provide for a New Index for Periodic Adjustment of Fees (Administrative Services)

Link to Full Meeting Agenda
Meeting Video and Minutes Archive
Comment on Agenda Items


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The Shoreline Public Schools Foundation “Thanks-for-Giving!”

Field trip to the Burke Museum
Photo courtesy SPSF
The Shoreline Public Schools Foundation is excited to share the impact of our dedicated and generous Fall Campaign donors.

Their gifts of almost $80,000 will help support the nearly $170,000 requested to fund 77 Educational Engagement Grants.

These grants will provide students with the opportunity to engage their attention, curiosity, interest, optimism and passion for learning.

Thank you to all of the individuals and corporations that contributed to our Fall Campaign! This support will impact students, educators, and every Shoreline Public School.

To learn more about these fabulous learning opportunities and/or to add your support, please visit the Shoreline Public Schools Foundation’s website



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New director of UW Bothell education research institute

Carrie Tzou - Marc Studer photo
Carrie Tzou, an associate professor in the University of Washington Bothell School of Educational Studies, is the new director of the university’s Goodlad Institute for Educational Renewal, which works to support teachers and help students become better citizens in a democracy. 

Tzou takes over for Professor Tom Bellamy, the founding director in 2008, who is moving to emeritus status.

Tzou will continue to grow partnerships that turn educational research into classroom innovations, said Edward Buendia, professor and dean of the School of Educational Studies. The partnerships include collaborations with school districts statewide.

The Goodlad Institute continues the vision of John Goodlad, a UW professor who died in 2014 and who was known for the book, “A Place Called School.” 

Under Bellamy, UW Bothell started the Expanding Capacity for Special Education Leadership program for special education administrators and the Leadership Development for Educators principal preparation program.

The institute is an example of the way faculty work across boundaries, said Tzou, who started at UW Bothell in 2008 and has been a principal investigator with Goodlad since 2015.

“My dream would be that the Goodlad Institute is involved in both research and partnership-building that results in transformational education for communities where they get to design their own educational futures,” Tzou said. 

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Kari of Alderwood's Sport Cuts gave free haircuts to veterans


Text and photos by Jerry Pickard

On Thursday November 15, 2018 Keri of Alderwood's Sport Cuts gave free haircuts to veterans at American Legion's Post 227 in Shoreline from 9:00am until 2:00pm.


Post 227 provided a free spaghetti lunch to Keri and the veterans. 


Greta Fischer slices hot garlic bread to go with the spaghetti. Hot apple pie or marionberry pie was served as dessert.


After lunch, Kari kept working. She has made Post 227 a regular stop.


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New Parkwood Elementary taking shape

Sunday, November 18, 2018

Photo by Mike Remarcke

The new Parkwood Elementary School construction is making steady progress since its groundbreaking in September.

The new building is on the original school site at 155th and Meridian.

Photo by Mike Remarcke

The architect for the Parkwood project is DLR Group and the construction company is Allied Construction Associates. The total estimated project cost is $46,909,000 with a scheduled completion date of August 2019.

Parkwood Elementary School is one of four school construction projects being funded by a school construction bond approved by 73 percent of Shoreline School District voters in February 2017. Other projects to be funded by the bond include construction of the Edwin Pratt Early Learning Center and rebuilding Einstein and Kellogg Middle Schools.

Pratt and Einstein are also under current construction and Kellogg is scheduled to start in a few months.



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Holiday Folk Dance Party Dec 8 at Lynnwood Grange

Music by the Allspice Band at the
Holiday Folk Dance Party Dec 8
December 8, 2018 Holiday Folk Dance Party sponsored by Sno-King International Folk Dance Club and Northwest Folkdancers, Inc.

7:00pm to 10:00pm at the Cedar Valley Grange, 20526 52nd Ave W, Lynnwood.

Dance to Live music from Allspice band, with recorded requests during the band break.

This will be a big dance with members of several clubs participating. Join us in doing dances from around the world.

We do couple, no-partner, and set dances, and you don't need to bring a partner.

The Grange has the best dance floor around, and lots of free parking.

Wear an ethnic costume if you have one, or just your holiday togs. Finger food potluck snacks are encouraged.

The donation is $8.00. Info: 949-646-7082 or dancesnoking@gmail.com


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Poem: The Very Last Leaf

Photo by Rob Oxford

The Very Last Leaf - Rob Oxford

I'll be the very last leaf on this tree yet to fall
I'm the very last leaf I've outlasted them all
Hanging on tight to this branch with no hands
I'm determined to stay here as long as I can
All of my brothers lost their grip long ago
Along with my sisters they're now scattered below
Soon I too will grow tired and my stem will get weak
But I'm still the last one that's what makes me unique
Then Dad will come out and he'll roll up his sleeves
And he'll rake and he'll rake and make piles of us leaves
Then we'll be back together like we were way up high
Until we get scattered by some truck that speeds by
But Dad will just laugh and start raking some more
Like he does every year 'til his arms become sore
And then when he's done and us leaves are knee deep
He'll call to his kids and they'll all take a leap



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Story-teller to share “Teachings of the First People”

Storyteller Roger Fernandes
The public is invited to experience the power of oral history from a Native American master storyteller on Wednesday, November 28, in another of a series of monthly programs sponsored by the Kenmore Heritage Society.

The program, “Teachings of the First People,” starts at 6pm in the Hangar at Town Square, 6728 NE 181st St. in Kenmore. All are welcome.

Roger Fernandes, or Kawasa as he is called by his fellow members of the Lower Elwha Band of S’Klallam Indians, has strong feelings about how stories should be shared. 

A tribal historian, artist, and teacher specializing in Coast Salish art, Fernandes believes stories should not be trapped in books.

Fernandes believes the true power of storytelling “comes when the moisture of the teller’s breath gives life and power to the story.”

Fernandes began story-telling by sharing simple legends, then enlarged his subject matter to include myths, creation stories, flood stories, and stories about heroes. They teach non-Natives about the complexities of the Indian cultures, going beyond the basics of food, shelter, and clothing.

Admission is free. Light refreshments will be served. Door prizes will be given.

The society’s series of monthly programs is made possible with support from the City of Kenmore and 4Culture.


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Echo Lake and Meridian Park associations to hear from the Customer Response Team


Do you know about the Customer Response Team?
It is unique to Shoreline and an asset that not everyone knows about.

Come find out on Tuesday at a joint meeting of the Meridian Park and Echo Lake neighborhood associations.

7 - 9pm in the City Hall Council Chamber



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Thanksgiving week at Third Place Books

Just one author this Thanksgiving week at Third Place Books - Liane Moriarty. Otherwise, the store is closed on Thanksgiving, open for regular business on Black Friday, and celebrating Small Business Saturday.

Third Place Books, Town Center, intersection of Bothell and Ballinger Way, Lake Forest Park.

Monday, November 19 at 7pm
Liane Moriarty
Nine Perfect Strangers (Flatiron Books)

Nine people gather at a remote health resort. Some are here to lose weight, some are here to get a reboot on life, some are here for reasons they can't even admit to themselves.

Amidst all of the luxury and pampering, the mindfulness and meditation, they know these ten days might involve some real work. But none of them could imagine just how challenging the next ten days are going to be.

Combining all of the hallmarks that have made her writing a go-to for anyone looking for wickedly smart, page-turning fiction that will make you laugh and gasp, Liane Moriarty's Nine Perfect Strangers once again shows why she is a master of her craft.

Thursday, November 22

THANKSGIVING DAY – STORE CLOSED

Third Place Books is closed for Thanksgiving! We’ll be back on Friday, with regular hours!

Friday, November 23
Black Friday

You don’t have to wake up at the crack of dawn on Black Friday, but we’re open regular hours, have free gift wrapping, and would love to see you. Spend $50 or more (pre-tax) and receive a $10 Gift Card!

Saturday, November 24
Small Business Saturday

Support your local independent businesses and get your holiday shopping started on Small Business Saturday. Spend $50 or more (pre-tax) and receive a $10 Gift Card!



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In the Garden Now…..Seeing Red

Disanthus cercidifolius Red Bud Hazel

Japanese Maples, Burning Bush, Barberry, and Red Bud Hazel that is!

Text and photos by Victoria Gilleland

There are numerous trees and shrubs with amazing red foliage for us to enjoy in our Pacific Northwest Gardens. Here are a few easy to grow favorites that are looking particularly attractive right now.

Shaina Japanese Maple

The three Japanese Maples featured in this article sport varying shades of red throughout the growing season. Here they are in their Autumn Reds!

‘Shaina Japanese’ Maple is a dwarf tree with small red congested leaves. It grows very slowly eventually reaching 6-8 feet tall and wide. My ‘Shaina’ is 5’ high and 3’ wide after 8 years growing in my garden.

Crimson Queen Japanese Maple

‘Crimson Queen’ Japanese Maple may reach 10‘ high and wide. Mine is growing under Douglas Fir trees competing with roots for water and nutrition. It’s been in place for 5 years and is now about 4’ high and 5’ wide. I expect it to grow very slowly and stay more compact under these difficult growing conditions than might be expected otherwise.

Red Spider Japanese Maple

‘Red Spider’ Japanese Maple has reddish orange finely cut foliage that from a distance looks a lot like bamboo. Close up the individual leaves really do look like Red Spiders! The tree is described as ‘semi-dwarf and upright.’ My tree is a new addition to the garden and is currently growing in a large container. I would expect it to reach 10-12 feet or more in ten years.

Crimson Pygmy Barberry

Three additional red foliage shrubs follow.

Crimson Pygmy Barberry is a deciduous compact prickly plant with small yellow flowers in spring and reddish foliage throughout the growing season. It may be 3’ by 3’ or larger over time.

Red Bud Hazel is a deciduous shrub with heart shaped leaves. One of its finest virtues is that it grows well in dry shade where it produces fabulous fall color. My plant has been growing under a western red cedar for the past 10 years and has stayed a compact 5’ by 5’ with very light pruning. Given more water and better growing conditions experts say it could reach 10’ by 10’ or larger. I’m very happy with my petite version!

Burning Bush

Compact Burning Bush starts spring with fresh new dark green leaves which turn rich red in fall. Give it a sunny spot and it’s very easy to grow. It’s often seen in commercial plantings. This is the ‘Compact’ variety, but it is not a small plant. Compact Burning Bush can easily reach 8’ by 8’. The species may be 15’ by 15’ or larger. Don’t be beguiled by that showy red fall color. These are fast growing large plants! An established plant may be pruned heavily to reduce size overall with no ill effect. But, before either is planted in the garden consider the ultimate size and space available.

I hope you’re seeing at least a little red as you enjoy our glorious fall!

(Note: Thanks to Leanne and Mark Gallison for letting me photograph the beautiful Burning Bush and Red Pygmy Barberry in their garden.)

Botanical Name:
Acer palmatum ‘Shaina Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum ‘Red Spider’ Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum dissectum ‘Crimson Queen’ Japanese Maple
Berberis thunbergia ‘Red Pygmy’ Barberry
Disanthus cercidifolius Red Bud Hazel
Euonymus alata ‘Compacta’ Burning Bush

Victoria Gilleland is the owner of Cottage GardenDesigns, a Garden Design company specializing in Redesign of Residential Gardens, Garden Consultation and Coaching. She has been designing gardens in the northwest for over 25 years.



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Christmas tree sale to benefit Shorecrest party for graduating seniors


Shorecrest PTSA will hold its annual Christmas tree fundraiser November 30, December 1 and 2, to benefit the 2019 Senior Spree.

The annual Spree is for graduating seniors and provides them with an overnight, fun, chaperoned party on graduation night.

Trees will be sold at Loyal Automotive in the North City business district, 1211 NE 175th St



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Seattle Humane to take in pets from California shelters

Rescuing pets after California wildfires
Photo credit Yahoo.com


Seattle Humane is prepared to take in up to 300 pets from shelters in California following the devastating wildfires that have left families and their pets stranded.

In partnership with ASPCA-Los Angeles and Best Friends Animal Society-Los Angeles, Seattle Humane will receive animals from several flights over the next month.

This is an effort to relieve overcrowding in California shelters and open up space and resources for pets displaced by the fires, and for those in need of temporary housing.

Seattle Humane will not take in pets separated from their owners in the disaster.

Seattle Humane will begin transporting dogs, cats, kittens and puppies to the shelter in Bellevue next week where they will be placed for adoption.

The organization is asking for donations to help transfer, care for, treat and place animals who come from the regions affected by wildfire. Monetary donations to support the effort can be made through the Life-Saver Rescue Fund.



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Cartoon: Beware of Drilley the Kid

Saturday, November 17, 2018



Previous cartoons by Whitney Potter can be found under Features 
in the first column of the front page of the Shoreline Area News



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Book Review by Aarene Storms: The Backstagers

The Backstagers: Rebels Without Applause  (graphic novel)
by James Tynion IV

Jory is the new kid at St Genesius Prepatory High School, and he is dubious about finding new friends. He contemplates joining the Drama Club, but is sent away to find a prop ... which is where he discovers the weird, wild, and wonderful world of the Backstage. Behind the scenes, the people are diverse, the demands are fast, and the tool rats are ... actual rats that sometimes glow in the dark.... 

And, of course, there are the rumors of monsters and missing people in the rooms behind the stage.

What could possibly go wrong?

Anyone who has spent time in theater -- on stage or behind the scenes -- will love the wild adventures, the bright colors, and the over-the-top characters. Highly recommended, I can't wait to read Volume 2.

No sex, no drugs, no blood. Some bullying, some monsters, some psychedelic paint and some very unusual stage props.

The events may not have happened; still, the story is true.  --R. Silvern

Aarene Storms, youth services librarian
Richmond Beach and Lake Forest Park Libraries, KCLS



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Sidewalks: 195th Trail linked to Interurban Trail

Looking east to Ashworth on N 195th
Photo by Dennis Terpstra
A recently completed one block sidewalk in Shoreline connected two major trails.

The Interurban Trail, completed several years ago, runs diagonally through the entire city of Shoreline, from Seattle to Snohomish county.

The newer 195th Trail is planned to connect the Interurban Trail to the Burke Gilman Trail in Lake Forest Park. It will also tie in to the planned trail along I-5 and the Sound Transit stations.

Recently, a one block section was created which links the 195th Trail to the Interurban Trail on the east side of Echo Lake.

The section is on N 195th and runs from Ashworth west to Stone Ave and the Interurban Trail.



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Stocking the food bank - Ridgecrest food drive

The Ridgecrest Neighborhood Association is sponsoring a Holiday Food Drive to support Hopelink - Shoreline's Food Bank.

Your donation will help families in Shoreline who have few resources have enough to eat during the holidays.

Please help our neighbors in need by bringing non-perishable food items to either of our partnering businesses.

Both are in the business district of Ridgecrest at 5th NE and NE 165th (think Crest Theatre)

Café Aroma, 509 NE 165th, open 5:30am-6pm, 7 days a week.

Ridgecrest Public House, 520 NE 165th,

  • open Mon - Wed from 4pm-Midnight,
  • Thurs - Sun from 2pm- midnight.

The Food Drive runs from now until the end of December. You do not have to limit your donations to one time.

If every person would donate a can of food a week, we could easily meet our 1,000 pound goal.

But please don't wait to make your donation. We have a lot of families right here in Ridgecrest who need help now.

--Thank you - the Ridgecrest Neighborhood Association Board of Directors.



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North City Water District has an opening on the Board of Commissioners

North City Water District headquarters
Would you like to make a valuable difference in your community, with a focus on public water service?
North City Water District is seeking qualified applicants for an appointment to fill the vacant Position #2 on our Board of Commissioners.

This is a dynamic position that involves solid working relationships and interaction with regulatory agencies, ratepayers, community leaders, legislators, and industry organizations.

The appointed candidate will make critical decisions that safeguard the resources and services that North City Water District provides to its customers.

Qualified candidates must be (1) a United States citizen, (2) at least eighteen years of age, and (3) a registered voter who resides within our District’s service area boundaries.

If elected, the Commissioner is expected to attend each of our Board of Commissioners’ meetings, which are held on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month at 3:00pm, located at our main office:1519 NE 177th St in Shoreline.

The Commissioner is likewise expected to attend Board meetings, learn about the District operations, and represent the District at public events. The Board of Commissioners have recently adopted a Rules of Procedures for Commissioners to follow.

Term of Service

The appointed applicant will serve until the next general election in November 2019. The appointed applicant must file for election to Commissioner Position #2 during May 2019 filing period if the appointed applicant desires to continue to serve in the position after the November 2019 election. Once the results of the November 2019 election are certified, the elected commissioner will immediately take office and serve the entire Position #2 six-year term, which would expire in December 2025.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must submit the following documentation to the District by December 28, 2018:
Applications can be dropped off in person during normal business hours, Monday - Friday 8:00am – 4:30pm or mailed to:

North City Water District
Attn: Board of Commissioners
1519 NE 177th Street
Shoreline, WA 98155

For additional information regarding the process, read the Commissioner Vacancy Information Sheet (click to download and print the PDF). Should you have further questions, contact Diane Pottinger, PE, District Manager at 206-362-8100, and she will forward your questions to the Board of Commissioners for a response.



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