Case updates July 16, 2020; catching up with the backlog

Friday, July 17, 2020

Washington state DOH confirmed cases


Today’s increase of 1,267 new cases includes a backlog of about 300 cases from Yakima County. Despite the backlog, this increase suggests that community spread is accelerating. DOH is also reporting an increase of 115 hospitalizations today. This reflects a backlog following the agency’s data migration from last weekend. The 7-day average counts indicate hospitalization numbers continue to increase as well.

Case updates July 16, 2020

United States
  • cases 3,483,832 including 67,404 new cases
  • deaths 136,938 including 947 new deaths
Washington state
  • cases 44,313 - 1267 new cases (see above)
  • hospitalizations 4,944 - 115 new (see above)
  • deaths 1,427 - 6 new
King county
  • cases 12,592 - 239 new
  • hospitalizations 1,750 - 19 new
  • deaths 621 - 1 new
Shoreline
  • cases 430 - 5 new
  • hospitalizations 93 - 1 new
  • deaths 57 - 0 new
Lake Forest Park
  • cases 45 - 0 new
  • hospitalizations 4 - 0 new
  • deaths 1 - 0 new


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No-contact pick up for dahlia tubers



As previously reported, the local dahlia club (Puget Sound Dahlia Assn.) was not able to hold their huge dahlia show at Sky Nursery this year.

Instead, the club moved their tuber sale online and successfully sold most of the dahlia tubers that way.



However, there is a smaller selection of roots still available to anyone wishing to start (or replace) dahlias for next season.

Interested gardeners should just stop by 1305 NW 201 St, Shoreline 98177, 10am to 7pm, for no contact pickup. Call 206-859-1695 if you have questions.



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Comcast issues in parts of area Thursday evening


Comcast had connectivity issues Thursday evening which affected 2500 customers in our area. TV, internet and phone were all down.

Problems apparently started the night before but had been resolved by 6pm. Then the biggest spike of outages hit around 9pm, persisting until midnight.




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Order ahead for the Lake Forest Park Farmers Market Sunday


Here are some of the items you can pre-order from Doll House Baked Goods. Note the pre-order cutoff of Friday, July 17th, at MIDNIGHT.

Friendly reminders for LFP Farmers Market (Sunday 10am - 2pm by LFP City Hall, parking lot intersection of Bothell and Ballinger Way NE).





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Shoreline 175th Street Corridor Improvements Project survey

N 175th and Meridian by Ronald Bog
A roundabout would require removing new sidewalks
Photo courtesy City of Shoreline

N 175th St is one of Shoreline's busiest roads and connects Aurora, I-5, and 15th Ave NE. Traffic on the corridor will continue to increase as the city grows and regional transit expands.

The goal of the City of Shoreline is to make N 175th St easier, safer, and more predictable for people walking, using a wheelchair, pushing a stroller, biking, driving, and taking transit. As such, traffic planners have been working to identify transportation needs to meet the demands of a growing community.

Since engaging the community in spring 2019, they have developed two design concepts for the corridor as well as two design concepts for improvements to the intersection at N 175th St and Meridian Ave N:a roundabout intersection option and an improved signalized intersection option.

The concepts are based on the feedback received from people who live along the corridor, local businesses, Meridian Park Elementary School, community organizations, and people who travel on N 175th St.

Share your feedback on the design concepts and how you think the designs rank against the key evaluation criteria.

This is the most critical stage of the process for you to let us know your thoughts on the concepts and what you think is missing.

The survey is HERE and closes on August 9.





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Shoreline and Northshore Fire among departments responding to Everett fire

Apartment building under construction in Everett
burns to the ground
Photo courtesy Everett Fire


Around 5:40pm on Thursday, July 16, 2020, Everett Fire was dispatched to the under construction Waterfront Place Apartments in the 1300 block of W Marine View Drive in Everett.

The apartments consisted of two four-story buildings. One was fully engulfed in flames.

Everett fire Thursday
Photo courtesy Bothell Fire


This was a 4-alarm fire, eventually involving units from Marysville, Northshore, Shoreline, Bothell, Woodinville, and Seattle who assembled a Task Force and staffed Everett Fire Stations, responding to 911 calls while Everett Fire continued to battle the multi-alarm conflagration.

Of the two buildings under construction for the Waterfront Place Apartments, the south building burned completely to the ground. The north building has damage, at minimum from the intense heat, which caused the windows to break out.

Fire and embers were blown in an easterly direction across W Marine View Drive, which started trees and brush on fire along the bluff above W Marine View Drive. Embers started a roof and attic fire to a home in the 1600 block of Rucker Ave. Flying embers also caused smaller spot fires around 16th and Grand Avenue and 16th and Rucker Avenue. Firefighters worked hard to get the house fire and the spot fires under control and prevent them from spreading to other homes.

The aid car was scorched and the windows blew out on the ladder truck
Photo courtesy Everett Fire


Two Everett fire apparatus were damaged from radiant heat of the fire, a ladder truck, which had the windows blown out from the heat, and an aid unit. Both apparatus have burns and melted components. One Everett firefighter received minor burns to hand while moving the aid car to prevent further damage.

For safety purposes, Snohomish PUD turned off the power to 1000 customers for an hour until the fire was under control.

There are also railroad tracks along W Marine View Dr. with rail cars stopped in the vicinity. Firefighters were in communication with BNSF to ensure there were no safety concerns.

The cause is under investigation.


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Officer involved shooting near Shorewood Thursday morning

Thursday, July 16, 2020

The suspect's knife is an 8 inch chef style knife.
Photo courtesy KCSO 


Thursday morning, July 16, 2020 at 6am, the King County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from a resident in the 500 block of N 175 St, Shoreline.

At 6:02am, Shoreline Police arrived and spoke with a 62 year old male who had been stabbed twice. The victim reported that he had been out on a walk with his dog. As he approached his home, the victim noticed an unknown suspect following him. Just as the victim turned to walk up his driveway, the suspect stabbed the victim once in the back and once in the front. The suspect then stabbed the dog and fled on foot.

A short time later, at 6:22am, a second caller reported to 911 that a man, described as wearing the same clothing as the suspect in the first stabbing, had attempted to stab him, but he was able to fight him off.

A K9 team began tracking for the suspect. At 6:37am, two detectives located the suspect, still armed with the knife, near N 175th and Linden Ave N.

An altercation occurred between the detectives and the suspect, and ultimately the suspect was shot by detectives. The detectives immediately began life saving efforts on the suspect, to include CPR. 

Shoreline Fire arrived on scene and medics continued life saving measures but the suspect died at the scene. 

Both the 62 year old male, who was transported to Harborview, and the dog, who is at a local veterinary clinic, are in stable condition.

Seattle Police Department’s FIT (Force Investigation Team) is conducting the officer involved shooting investigation per I-940. The King County Sheriff’s Office has identified two civilian observers, per I-940 requirements, who will act as independent observers.

Both King County Sheriff’s Office Detectives have been placed on administrative leave which is standard for officer involved shootings.



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We're fine, Carl reassured Colin, eager to continue their corvid conversation;

Photo by Gloria Z Nagler


six inches apart is standard social distancing for us crows...not six feet!

--Gloria Z Nagler



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Case updates July 15, 2020; study released on risk of opening schools

County phases and risk assessment
WA St DOH

Study: Community actions are key to safely reopening schools.

Wednesday, the Washington State Department of Health (DOH), Public Health – Seattle and King County and Institute for Disease Modeling (IDM) released a new report that shows reopening schools without taking preventative measures may lead to a significant increase of COVID-19 in the population. 

Simulating the first three months of school term, the report found King County schools may be able to reopen without sustained epidemic growth, but only with several countermeasures in place and if community-wide COVID-19 transmission is low. Read the release here or watch the media briefing on TVW.

Case updates July 15, 2020

United States
  • cases 3,416,428 including 60,971 new cases
  • deaths 135,991 including 773 new deaths
Washington state
  • cases 43,046 - 742 new cases
  • hospitalizations 4829 - 51 new
  • deaths 1,421 - 17 new
King county
  • cases 12,353 - 109 new
  • hospitalizations 1,731 - 25 new
  • deaths 620 - 14 new
Shoreline
  • cases 425 - 1 new
  • hospitalizations 92 - 0 new
  • deaths 57 - 0 new
Lake Forest Park
  • cases 45 - 0 new
  • hospitalizations 4 - 1 new
  • deaths 1 - 1 new



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It's Ducklings in Drains season - but Shoreline Fire came to the rescue

Rescuers with duckling
Photo courtesy Shoreline Fire

A caring resident alerted Shoreline Fire that a duckling fell eight feet down a drain.

The Ladder/Truck crew was able to get the duckling and return it safely to its mama!




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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: IRS Audit



Tax deadline was July 15, 2020



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Deadline extended to Monday July 20 for Recycled Yard Art Contest

Madhura Keskar
flowers made with bottle caps

Deadline extended to 
Monday, July 20!


Summer Fun
Recycled Yard Art Contest


Calling all Shoreline Residents:
Let’s have some summer fun!

Recology and the City of Shoreline invite you to decorate your yard with everyday recyclable materials and celebrate the season.

Sort through your blue cart recyclables and create a piece of yard art with a summer fun theme.

Submit a photo and you will have a chance to win a gift basket from The Recology Store.

How to Enter
  • All submissions must utilize recycled materials from your blue cart and have a summer fun theme.
  • All yard art must be completed and photo sent by July 20 by 5pm.
  • Email your yard art photo to: cperenyi@shorelinewa.gov. Be sure to include your name and contact information in the body of your email.
  • All submissions will be reviewed by local judges. Categories are: Best Use of Recycled Materials; Best “Summer Fun” Theme; Most Colorful.
  • Winners will be notified by July 24.
  • All submissions will be posted on the City of Shoreline Instagram page. The community will have a chance to indicate their favorites. Community Choice awards will be announced on July 31.
For more information, or if you have questions, email
Constance Perenyi, cperenyi@shorelinewa.gov



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Shoreline Farmers Market Saturday

Hey Sweet Pea!
Pick up a bouquet at the Farmers Market Saturday
Photo courtesy SFM


Every week at the Shoreline Farmers Market you'll find an assortment of beautiful, fresh, local flowers from flower vendors Boar Lor and Teng Garden. Most flowers travel thousands of miles and most are from other countries. These flowers will stay fresh longer, smell sweeter, and support local farmers!

Here's the updated list of vendors for this week: apricots, cherries, cherry tomatoes, garlic braids, dried beans, strawberries, eggs, leafy greens, herbs, bee pollen, hummus, fresh mozzarella, and beautiful sweet pea flowers.

The market is in a newish location near the old location on the upper level of Shoreline Place at 155th and Westminster Way. They are set up next to the Bank of America building.

The market is open from 10am to 3pm. 


Food insecurity is a reality for many Washington families and it's amplified in the current era. The Shoreline Farmers Market is committed to continuing our food access programs this season including: WIC, FMNP, and SNAP/EBT.

All SNAP transactions will be DOUBLED through the new statewide SNAP Market Match program. Take out $20 and receive an additional $20 for fresh fruits and veggies. Stop by the Information Booth to learn more.



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Last call for Girl Scout cookies at Bartells


LAST CALL FOR GIRL SCOUT COOKIES! 
Get them before they're gone! 

Only in stores until July 31st. Remaining availability of each flavor varies between our stores. Thank you to everyone who has purchased already to support the Girl Scouts of Western Washington.

When the COVID-19 shutdown happened in the middle of Girl Scout cookies sales, Bartells came to the rescue and has been selling the cookies out of their stores.

Now the sale is ending on July 31st, so get your cookies now!

Bartells is a local, family owned business. George H. Bartell, Sr. started the business in 1890 in Seattle. He had come to Seattle, lured by the Klondike gold rush. Assessing the situation with thousands of gold hunters going through Seattle, he decided there was more gold to be made by selling supplies to miners. Bartells now has 64 stores throughout central Puget Sound.



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Notes from Shoreline Council meeting July 13, 2020

Pam Cross, reporter

Shoreline City Council Meeting
July 13, 2020

Notes by Pam Cross

The meeting was held online using the Zoom platform.

Mayor Hall called the meeting to order at 7:00pm
All Councilmembers were present.

Report of the City Manager. Debbie Tarry

COVID-19 Update

We remain in Phase 2 of Washington State’s Start Safe Plan. Because King County, as well as the State, is seeing an increase in the number of COVID-19 cases, Governor Inslee directs us to take the following preventative measures:
  • Wear a face covering when you are in public places, including outdoors when you may be unable to maintain six feet of distance.
  • Wash or sanitize your hands regularly.
  • Avoid large gatherings.
  • Get tested at the first sign of illness.
  • And remember, it’s still safest to stay at home.

In parks, basketball courts should not be used for scrimmages or games. They are available for use by an individual to shoot baskets. We have seen the courts used for multiple player games, and people removing the caution tape and closed signs.

Details at shorelinewa.gov/covid

Summer Events 2020 for July
  • Bingo - a new card each week
  • Yard art contest - enter by July 17
  • Virtual concert - Eric Ode July 21.
More information available at shorelinewa.gov/summer2020

Shoreline Climate Challenge

This fun and easy event is now through October 31, 2020. Learn about and implement actions to protect our environment. There are activities for youth and for renters.

You can create your household profile and view your footprint, create or join a team with friends and neighbors, or choose from a list of actions and earn points.There is special recognition for the team with the most points. Visit ShorelineClimateChallenge.org for information.

Shoreline Farmers Market

The market will be open on Saturdays through October 3rd at 155th and Westminster Way near the prior location. Current health and safety guidelines limit the number of shoppers at one time, mandate face coverings, prohibit pets except service animals, and encourage pre-orders. Additional information: shorelinefarmersmarket.org

Public Reminders

Planning Commission will hold a remote meeting on Thursday July 16th for a Public Hearing on Community Renewal Area (CRA) Sign Code Update.To participate in public comment, go to shorelinewa.gov/calendar

The following visitors from King County expressed their gratitude to the City of Shoreline for its support of the Assessment and Recovery Center (isolation site) that stood as a model for the nation: Councilmember Rod Dembowski, Leo Flor Director of Community and Human Services, and Patty Hayes, Director of Public Health.

Council Reports

Councilmember Roberts was one of the AWC (Association of Washington Cities) representatives at the annual conference. They amended their policy statement to “a balanced and bold approach” is essential to balance protecting the environment, allowing for expanding populations, and providing necessary economic and social opportunities. This shows strong support for strengthening the environmental section.

Councilmember Roberts was also the City’s representative for the PSRC (Puget Sound Regional Council) annual meeting where they re-elected their officers and adopted maintaining current dues.

Councilmember Robertson. PSRC Economic Development District Board updated strategic plan “Amazing Place” for 2022. Every aspect is looked at through a COVID-19 filter. One discussion focused on the need for universal broadband for such things as remote work, tele-health, and remote learning. A regional approach is necessary.

The North King County Shelter Task Force had their first meeting. They established the goal of going beyond just providing a shelter to providing services to get residents into permanent housing. There is a King County Commerce grant of $11M over 3 years, but because it is for the entire county, it won’t go too far. Colleen Kelly, Shoreline's Community Services Manager, will be getting a proposal together since the application is due before the next scheduled Task Force meeting.

Proclamation 
(Mayor Hall mentioned that Council rules provide for two different kinds of Proclamations. Some are calendared and noted in the Agenda, others are made by the the Mayor and mentioned for transparency.) 

September 2020 is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, an annual international awareness month to raise support, funding and awareness of childhood cancers and the impact for sufferers and families of sufferers of childhood cancer.

Public Comment

Dan Adams commented about the pending closure of Shoreline Pool. He would like to know the actual technical reasons for the decision to not repair the pool.

Approval of the Agenda adopted by unanimous consent.

The Consent Calendar approved unanimously by roll call vote.

Action Item 8(a) Adoption of Ordinance No. 890 - Amending Shoreline Municipal Code Chapter 2.60 Purchasing

Sara Lane, Administrative Services Director, gave the staff report

Last discussed at the Council’s June 15, 2020 meeting, monetary limits related to services, materials, supplies, and equipment have not been updated to reflect a changing economy. In addition, several “housekeeping” amendments are needed to reflect current practices and to provide clarity and consistency. The City is expending significant effort for what have become relatively small contracts. It should also be noted that these contracts are being awarded to projects or programs that already have an approved budget.

The purpose of this discussion is to present staff’s response to questions raised at the June 15th meeting.

The reasons for increasing thresholds include inflation, increased opportunities and competition for smaller businesses on these smaller contracts, and time savings resulting in faster project delivery.

Staff can develop a Council Contract Report in the upgraded system in 2021 so Councilmembers are aware of the activity.

DISCUSSION

Councilmembers have faith in staff to make these decisions and see no need for micromanaging the process. There is Council oversight at the appropriate level.

VOTE

Ordinance approved by 6-1 vote with Deputy Mayor Scully opposed.


Action Item 8(b) Adoption of Resolution No. 462 – Updating the Employee Handbook Furlough and Layoff Policy

Don Moritz, Human Resources Director, provided the staff report

The work environment has changed dramatically since the policies were written 2011. In order to maintain a balanced budget, and with minimal impact to City operations and employees, policies are needed to provide flexibility to respond to rapidly changing external forces.

COVID-19 has highlighted this need for policy changes to the layoff policy, strengthening management’s right to implement a reduction in force. These proposed changes affirm and clarify due process rights for employees who are impacted by a layoff. A section defining furlough and outlining its impact and application is also proposed.

At the June 12 the meeting, Council requested that staff prepare options for changes in severance pay and information about the policies of other cities.

(1) The current severance package provides 4 weeks of pay and a cash-out of 10% of accrued sick leave, regardless of years of service.

(2) Proposed graduated benefits based on years of service


(3) An alternative provides 2 weeks of salary for every 5 years of service up to a maximum of 10 weeks.

The current estimated costs of these three packages based on current staffing
  1. Current 4 weeks without years of services: $25,554
  2. 2-12 weeks depending on years of service: $41,590
  3. 2-10 weeks depending on years of service: $37,793
Basing severance on years of service rewards commitment to the organization as demonstrated by those years of service while recognizing the difficulty in obtaining a new job at an older age with several years at one employer.

The City wants to be recognized as fair and supportive of employees. At the same time, the Council must be a good steward of taxpayer dollars

DISCUSSION

Motion and second to adopt the Resolution, but amended to delete changes to severance (leaving severance at current rate of 4 weeks regardless of years of service).

It isn’t always true that newer employees can find a job in 2 weeks or that it’s more difficult for longer term employees. Two weeks doesn’t seem adequate after 4 years experience and possible additional education or training, and yet 4 weeks seems like a lot for someone who’s only been there a year. Long-term employees might receive a higher salary so their total severance package could be larger. Or a 20 year employee might possibly be at a lower pay grade so their compensation would not be higher.

Shoreline would be the only city offering this much severance based on years of service. Layoffs would be a last resort so it is likely large severance packages would be too costly for the City budget.

Is it typical to base employment practices based on a person’s age. Reply: No. There are some based on tenure, not on age.

Other jurisdictions:
  • How many pay more than 1 month severance for involuntary layoff. Reply: only one: Marysville pays a flat $5,000. None pays 3 months.
  • Does any local city/county provide severance salary for more than 1 month? Reply: no
  • Did staff consult with the MRSC (Municipal Research Services Center) for their advice? Reply: no

The MRSC does not recommend severance pay. As a public entity, offering severance is not in the best interests of the entity. This is the public’s money, not the City’s. With costs associated with the existing pool, COVID expenses, and possible elimination of programs, should we be increasing layoff costs? Layoffs are hard. Unemployment doesn’t replace a full salary, but the City pays 100% of the unemployment tax. This program should be utilized by laid off workers.

The US Government severance package provides one week of pay for each full year of creditable service through 10 years; and two weeks of pay for each full year of creditable service beyond 10 years. There is also an age adjustment allowance for those over 40 years of age.

Is a severance package useful in recruiting employees? Reply: that is certainly not the intent. It is not used as recruiting tool. (“We offer great severance in case you ever get laid off!”) However, potential employees do look at the entire package of benefits, financial security and get an impression of how the employer treats its employees.

VOTE: on the amendment retaining 4 weeks severance

The motion fails by a vote of 2-5, with the Mayor and Deputy Mayor voting affirmative.

Motion and second to adopt the Resolution, but amended to the alternative providing 2 weeks of salary for every 5 years of service up to a maximum of 10 weeks (instead of 12).

The cost is still high, but employee morale suffers without a severance package.

Will there be an employee satisfaction survey this year? Reply: yes, in August.

Regarding current length of service, is it typical that most (60%) employees have been there 5 years or less? Reply: it depends on the size of the organization and the room for advancement. Since Shoreline is smaller with less advancement opportunities as a result, more turnover is normal. Another consideration is the salary structure and how long it takes to get to the top of the salary range. With the City’s growth and more opportunities, employee retention will be better. But that could take a long time. In the meantime, the number of employees qualifying for the most weeks of severance is reduced.

VOTE: on the amendment retaining years of service but changing to maximum 10 weeks

Motion passes 4-3 with Councilmembers McGlashan, Roberts, and Mayor Hall voting in the minority.

VOTE: on the Resolution main motion “as amended”

Resolution, as amended, passes 6-1 with Mayor Hall dissenting.


Study Item 9(a) Discussion of COVID-19 Pandemic Projected City Budget Impact Update

Staff report provided by Sara Lane, Administrative Services Director, and Rick Kirkwood, Budget Supervisor

On April 20, 2020, staff presented Council with an initial estimate of the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the City’s budget. The scenarios presented in April showed a $2.4M to $5.6M projected range of reduced revenue in 2020 with uncertainty about the depth of a recession and length of the recovery.



Current estimates anticipate the impact of COVID-19 to result in a $6.2M shortfall in the 2020 operating budget and a $3.7M shortfall in the 2021-2022 operating budget. This does not include use of the Revenue Stabilization Fund.

The Revenue Stabilization Fund was created in late 2007 as an outcome of the revised reserve policy adopted by the City Council earlier in 2007. The Revenue Stabilization Fund will accumulate a reserve equal to thirty percent (30%) of annual economically sensitive revenues within the City’s operating budget to cover revenue shortfalls resulting from unexpected economic changes or recessionary periods. (from Shoreline website)

This discussion provides Council an opportunity to: (i) discuss the City Manager’s recommendation to address the 2020 revenue shortfall; (ii) respond to the City Manager’s recommendation that the City not reopen the Shoreline Pool and cease operating the facility as a City program which would reduce the shortfall for the 2021-2022 operating budget from $3.7M to $2M. The Revenue Stabilization Fund (rainy day fund) could be used to further address this shortfall. And (iii) discuss other issues related to early formation of the 2021-2022 biennial budget.

Other options for pool:

The Shoreline School District will be discussing the possibility of taking over operations during their Board meeting in July; other organizations may also be interested. Staff will continue to evaluate options for transferring operations to another agency/organization.

Questions for discussion
  • Should the City cease operating the Shoreline Pool?
  • Should the City demolish the Pool in 2021 if another operator is not identified?
  • Should the City use the Revenue Stabilization Fund to address short-term revenue losses in 2021-2022?
DISCUSSION:

The figures presented include a 10% property tax delinquency rate, which is higher than normal. When would the delinquency be collected from the homeowner? Reply: when the property is sold or when the homeowner catches up. We do not accrue those taxes so the impact is on the year it is not paid.

Do these figures anticipate any additional support from the Federal Government? 
Reply: Any additional federal money would go to offset direct COVID-19 costs that were not anticipated in the budget.

These figures will be updated as additional information becomes available.

Have we used the Revenue Stabilization Fund before? 
Reply: no. We budgeted to use it, but it wasn’t necessary. If we use it now, it would likely only be used for short-term revenue shortfalls.

The Shoreline Pool has been a drain on resources for a very long time. But why are we in such a rush to spend $1M in 2021 to demolish the pool if we can’t find a viable alternative to operate it? And where would this money come from? 
Reply: it would be a one-time budget request.

But where would this money come from? 
Reply: it could be a capital budget. It could be money we have set aside for maintenance. Funding the demolition is an issue we would have to discuss.

But maybe we should wait before demolishing it. The cost is only $4,500. 
Reply: We can’t just let the pool sit. The cost to “mothball it” is $4,500 plus $150,000 each year in utilities and staffing to sustain the systems and the structure. Remember that the building is on property that belongs to the School District so that they have an interest.

The fact is the City has agonized over the funding and maintenance of this pool for at least the seven years. The reality is that this pool is past its useful life. Whether or not the community decides to move forward with a new pool now or later, it is unrelated to the decision to demolish the old pool. And since COVID-19 is not going away this summer, and may in fact still be here months from now, it would not be cost effective to try to keep it open on a limited use basis.

We are fortunate to have the Revenue Stabilization Fund but its intended use is for short-term revenue loss rather than for an extended period of time. If used for all of the COVID-19 fallout, the fund will eventually be exhausted.


Study Item 9(b) Discussion of the 175th Corridor Project

The staff report was provided by Tricia Juhnke, City Engineer and Leif Johansen, Capital Project Manager

Staff presented a brief project update to Council, including a summary of public outreach and development of design concepts.The 175th Street corridor is one of Shoreline’s most active east-west arterials. It connects the city’s busiest north-south roadways: State Route 99/Aurora Avenue N, I-5 and 15th Avenue NE.

This project has been ongoing since 2011 and is the first project where we will use the Transportation Impact Fees to partially fund it. We kicked off the design in 2019 followed by the first phase of outreach resulting in the development of concept plans. We are now in phase 2 of outreach to share those concept plans. The design concepts are outlined in the staff report.

There are two intersection concepts for Meridian and 175th. The first is revised traffic signage and the second is a two-lane roundabout. The use of a roundabout will improve safety and operations and has lower operating costs. However, it has a greater impact on Ronald Bog because more land is required, and it does not tie into the new sidewalks at the elementary school. Those sidewalks would have to be demolished and redesigned.



Current Budget and funding:

The project is currently funded through the design phase by approx. $3.5M WSDOT Surface Transportation Program and approximately $500,000 in Transportation Impact Fees (TIF). An additional $4M TIF is available for property acquisition and match for grants.

Public Outreach schedule:
  • Virtual meetings with impacted property owners is ongoing
  • Online open house is now available: July 6 - August 10
  • Public meeting webinar: July 29 6PM - 7PM
  • Virtual stakeholder meetings will be scheduled in August
Information and survey: https://175corridor.participate.online/

The project schedule stretches beyond 2025.



DISCUSSION

These are preliminary designs so discussion will be more salient once outreach has been conducted.


Study Item 9 (c) Discussion of Ordinance No. 892 – Amending Shoreline Municipal Code Chapter 13.12, Floodplain Management

Andrew Bauer, Senior Planner made the presentation

Regulations and flood maps are used to manage development within the floodplain. The floodplain maps are routinely updated. The last update was in 2012. New maps are coming out August 19th.



Amending the floodplain management regulations including use of the new maps will ensure the City remains a participating community in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), allowing residents and businesses to purchase flood insurance. There are about 110 affected properties in Shoreline. (Puget Sound shoreline, Ronald Bog, Thornton Creek watershed, and Boeing Creek). Property owners in these floodplains were contacted in April and May, and there is a planned notice in July/August to inform the stakeholders of the new maps.

DISCUSSION

Are tsunamis covered by the NFIP? 
Reply: no

Is sea level rise considered in their modeling? 
Reply: no. They are limited to the use of historical data.

Ordinance to come back on Consent calendar.

Meeting adjourned.




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King county thanks Shoreline for hosting the isolation center

Buildings have been dismantled and removed
Photo courtesy King county


At the Shoreline City Council meeting on Monday, July 13, 2020, the following visitors from King County expressed their gratitude to the City of Shoreline for its support of the Assessment and Recovery Center (isolation site) that stood as a model for the nation:

  • Councilmember Rod Dembowski, 
  • Leo Flor Director of Community and Human Services, and 
  • Patty Hayes, Director of Public Health.

The two temporary structures have been dismantled
and the soccer field will be restored
Photo courtesy King county



During the July 13, Shoreline City Council meeting, King County Councilmember Rod Dembowski, the Director of Public Health – Seattle & King County Patty Hayes, and the Director of King County Department of Community and Human Services Leo Flor expressed their deep gratitude to the City of Shoreline and the Shoreline community for hosting the Assessment Center/Recovery Center (AC/RC) that had been located on Shoreline B Soccer Field. 

The AC/RC, constructed in March, provided space for individuals to safely isolate and recover from COVID-19 if they were unable to do so at home or if they did not have a home. The AC/RC in Shoreline was just one of several locations established by the County to safely quarantine and isolate individuals.

The AC/RC in Shoreline provided space for a total of 49 individuals to isolate safely and to not be located in a shelter. Providing space for these individuals helped to limit the spread of COVID-19 in shelters and helped save lives.

The AC/RC and the partnership between the City, the County, and other organizations is serving as an example for projects across the country looking to safely quarantine and isolate individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic.

While King County has seen cases of COVID-19 increase over the past few weeks, the County believes it has the resources available through other assets to accommodate individuals unable to isolate safely on their own. The AC/RC in Shoreline is in the process of being deconstructed. Once the structure is completely removed, the County will begin work to repair any damage to the turf soccer field and restore it to its original condition.


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Candidate forum: 32nd District candidates discuss police accountability

By Evan Smith

Incumbent Democratic 32nd District State Rep. Cindy Ryu and Democratic challengers Keith Smith and Shirley Sutton all say that police need to be more accountable.

Democrats Ryu, Smith and Sutton will meet in the Aug. 4 primary with the top two candidates advancing to the Nov. 3 general election.

No Republicans or independents filed for the position.


Sutton - Smith - Ryu
 

Ryu, Smith and Sutton have sent responses to the question, “What can the legislature do to prevent the kind of police behavior that recently killed a man in Minneapolis?” Here are their responses:

Legislative District 32, State Representative Pos. 1

Shirley Sutton (Prefers Democratic Party)

Police are legally protected and in many cases impossible to prosecute for crimes – even when captured on video! In 2018, I-940 passed with a 60% vote in WA State. I propose that I-940 gives us the opportunity to upgrade Washington’s police accountability laws. Perhaps upgraded performance evaluations and reviews like all other professions needs to be more frequent. In most cases, there’s no accountability to the community. Right now, the most important thing is to listen to the demands from our communities of color.

Keith Smith (Prefers Democratic Party)

The legislature needs to increase accountability for inappropriate use of force. This includes independent oversight, judicial involvement in investigations, and increasing transparency for the public to know which officers have received complaints.

We also need to de-police situations. This means fully funding social services. We need to focus on getting social workers to mental health and drug use situations. Too often the police are called to situations where they are not needed. By removing the gun from those situations we will dramatically decrease the chances of a tragic outcome.

Cindy Ryu (Prefers Democratic Party)

In 2016, my House Bill 2908 established the joint legislative task force on police use of deadly force. Subsequently, I-940 adopted some of its recommendations. We must now change our laws to prohibit chokeholds and other holds that use pressure on the neck; mandate community oversight boards for all police agencies in the state, including WSP; conduct completely independent criminal investigations of injuries and deaths from police use of force and custody; and provide that officers with sustained misconduct complaints must lose their commissions and cannot transfer to other agencies.

Evan Smith can be reached at schsmith@frontier.com



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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Tax day is July 15

Wednesday, July 15, 2020



The normal tax deadline was extended because of the pandemic.



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View of Puget Sound

Photo by Lee Lageschulte


A sunny day on Puget Sound. 
View from the bluff over Richmond Beach Saltwater Park.




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Inslee announces continued pause on considering county Safe Start applications to move to next phase

Gov. Jay Inslee is extending the pause
on moving to new phases


Gov. Jay Inslee held a media briefing Tuesday and announced he and DOH will extend the pause on considering county’s moving to new phases of reopening to at least July 28. 

He cited data that shows transmission rates of COVID-19 are increasing throughout most of the state instead of falling, and there’s a growing percentage of new cases are among Washingtonians in their 20s. 

Yakima County is the exception as its mask-wearing efforts appear to be successful so far and transmission is declining.

Inslee cautioned that California and Oregon recently restored certain restrictions and Washington state’s health officials are watching COVID-19 activity closely to determine if similar steps will be necessary here. 




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Nutrition strategies for reducing fatigue - TELECAFE with Christy Goff

Christy Goff, MS, RDN, CD

Feeling a bit tired and run-down?

Join us on July 15th in our ZOOM tele café for a real pick-me-up for

Nutrition strategies for reducing fatigue: July 15th at 2:00pm

Presented by Christy Goff, MS, RDN, CD, 
Registered dietitian at Pacific Medical Centers

Fatigue can significantly interfere with a person’s ability to function at home.

In this Wednesday chat series, learn how to identify factors that affect fatigue, gain several coping skills and identify how food and lifestyle strategies can help support energy.

What: A Zoom social hour, a chance to visit while staying home and staying safe. Grab a cup of coffee and pull up to chat!

Who: You and your friends from the Shoreline Lake Forest Park Senior Center

Where: From the comfort of your own computer or smartphone

When: July 1st, 2:00pm

Meeting ID: 859 8484 8513
Password: senior2020

Click HERE to download Zoom (free)




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Case updates July 14, 2020; spread increases

Confirmed cases, hospitalizations, and deaths by county
Washington state DOH


Seattle-King County Public Health Officer update on COVID-19 outbreak 

In spite of Washington State’s ongoing efforts to contain it, COVID-19 is spreading more rapidly by the day, especially among people aged 20-40. And while they are less likely to become seriously ill from the virus, they can still spread it to friends, family and neighbors – without even knowing they have it. 

The CDC has updated its list of people who are at increased risk of severe illness and those who should take extra precautions to avoid getting the virus, regardless of age. Among them are some members of racial and ethnic groups that have experienced longstanding health and social inequities, including Black people, Native Americans and Latinos.

Additionally, people of all ages with certain conditions may be at increased risk, including hypertension, pregnancy, smoking, diabetes, or obesity (defined as having a BMI above 30). You can learn more about who is at increased risk for serious illness from COVID-19, and what you can do to help protect them, at this Public Health Insider blog post.

Case updates July 14, 2020

United States
  • cases 3,355,457 including 58,858 new cases
  • deaths 135,235 including 351 new deaths
Washington state
  • cases 42,304 - 547 new cases
  • hospitalizations 4,778 - 10 new
  • deaths 1,404 - 5 new
King county
  • cases 12,244 - 145 new
  • hospitalizations 1,706 - 8 new
  • deaths 606 - 2 new
Shoreline
  • cases 424 - 3 new
  • hospitalizations 92 - 0 new
  • deaths 57 - 0 new
Lake Forest Park
  • cases 45 - 1 new
  • hospitalizations 3 - 0 new
  • deaths 0


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UU's demonstrate for Black Lives Matter

Members of Shoreline Unitarian Universalism Church
demonstrate for Black Lives Matter


Since the George Floyd murder, a group from Shoreline Unitarian Universalist Church has been demonstrating for Black Lives Matter several times a week.

They have decided to focus on one evening a week for the rest of July, and that is Thursdays from 5 to 6pm at the corner of NE 145th and 1st NE. 

We invite others to join us, wearing a mask and keeping 6 ft distance. The response from passing motorists has been overwhelmingly positive.


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Supporting local farms: Get fresh produce, berries, flowers, cheese and more using King County’s new Local Food Finder

The live, interactive map is HERE
You can enter your information or just click on the map


King County Executive Dow Constantine has launched Local Food Finder, an interactive map that identifies convenient ways customers can get fresh produce, berries, flowers, meat, honey, cheese, and more delivered from local farms to their doorstep, to a nearby pickup location, or picked up directly at the farm.

Farmers Markets, including Shoreline and Lake Forest Park, are included on the map.

The mobile-friendly map is one of several ways King County is supporting local farmers who have been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic that has disrupted farmers markets and restaurant sales. 

It is a product of the Local Food Initiative that Executive Constantine created in 2014 to strengthen King County’s local food economy and increase equitable access to healthy, affordable food.

“We are making it easier than ever to get fresh food and flowers delivered directly from local farms or arrange for convenient pickup right at the farm,” said Executive Constantine. 
“Our new Local Food Finder is one of many ways we are supporting farmers who have been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. We will continue to mobilize resources and offer innovative solutions that connect farmers to more customers, strengthening our local food economy.”



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Jobs: Scoping Engineer Lead

WSDOT
Scoping Engineer Lead (Transportation Engineer 3)
Shoreline, WA – Northwest Region
Posted July 14, 2020
Continuous

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Northwest Region (NWR) Program Development Office has a great opportunity for a proactive individual ready to take on the challenging position of the King County Scoping and Estimating Engineer Lead.

This position manages, coordinates, and monitors the development of project scopes, cost estimates, and schedules for future state highway Improvement and Preservation Projects in King County. The successful candidate will partner with Subject Matter Experts within WSDOT, as well as state and local agencies, as they define project scopes and develop estimates. If you enjoy solving problems, working in a collaborative team environment and making a positive impact on transportation in Northwestern Washington – this position may be the right fit for you!

Job description and application: HERE



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Jobs: Design lead supervisor

WSDOT
Design Lead Supervisor (Transportation Engineer 3)
Shoreline, WA. – Northwest Region
Posted July 14, 2020
Continuous

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has a great opportunity for a motivated Engineering professional who has strong leadership skills and an exceptional aptitude for managing projects. 

As the Design Lead Supervisor working out of our Northwest Region Headquarters in Shoreline, WA, this position will be responsible for delivering the assigned projects within scope, schedule, and budget while developing direct reports to become future leaders of WSDOT. 

The Design Lead Supervisor has a high impact to WSDOT’s mission to provide and support safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation options to improve livable communities and economic vitality for people and businesses. If you are passionate about leading teams, project delivery, continuous improvement, and helping individuals to develop and grow pass their potential, we have an exceptional opportunity for you and encourage you to apply.

Job description and application: HERE



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DO-IT [Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking, and Technology] to speak at Kiwanis virtual meeting

The North Central Seattle Kiwanis Club will hold a ZOOM virtual meeting beginning at 6:45pm on Thursday, July 16, 2020.

DO-IT Center at the University of Washington is dedicated to empowering high school students with disabilities through technology and education. It promotes awareness and accessibility for students to prepare for college and their career paths. 

High school student learn how to be better prepared for college through high school support, mentoring, job-shadowing, and college resources. 

Do you know a student with a disability looking to attend college? This is the perfect time to get more information on this award-winning program. Hear from some Camp Casey Alumni about their experience. More info on this program HERE

All Kiwanis members and members of the public are welcome to participate. Those who are not Kiwanis members can get instructions on how to access the ZOOM meeting by contacting Barbara Williams at: bandpwilliams@comcast.net
We hope that you will use this opportunity to hear a distinguished judge discuss a promising judicial concept.



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Wednesday is the final day for Forest Park Cleaners in LFP Town Center

After 31 years, Wednesday is the final day for Forest Park Cleaners


Story and photos by Donna Hawkey

They thought they were closing, and no one would notice.

“I am quite stoic. But so many customers have shown us their goodwill and spirit and how they do care. We have been very touched by that,” says David Lee.  

David’s mother, Myong Lee, the owner of Forest Park Cleaners, sends her deepest gratitude to all her customers and friends.

The last day to pick-up dry cleaning is Wednesday, July 15th
or clothing will be donated.


They will close permanently today on Wednesday, July 15th so make sure to pick-up your dry cleaning!

For the last 31 years, Town Centers’ Forest Park Cleaners has served Lake Forest Park residents, and those residents are letting them know how much they’ve appreciated their service. But the dry cleaner business is feeling the harsh steam of change as most people are working and sheltering at home and not getting out of their yoga and sweatpants. Like many other industries such as restaurants, this change hit them hard.

Leo and Jax help by greeting customers


Their revenue is down 90% since COVID-19, and this is the same issue for many other dry cleaner businesses. They are the second longest-standing tenants since the LFP Town Center was renovated in 1989. That same year, VSP Jewelry moved into Town Center, and they will close their storefront on July 31st.

Myong and David, who was in high school when the business opened, have no plans, but they send many good wishes to all as “it is such a hard time for everyone,” says David. 

Leo, on left, is 13 years old and has been greeting customers since he was a tiny puppy. 
Jax, his new sibling, is learning how to beg from his older brother.


You will be very missed, and your two dogs - Leo and Jax - who greeted so many customers with delight and enthusiasm.

Forest Park Cleaners, lower level, Town Center, intersection Bothell and Ballinger Way. 206-362-4124



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Local police departments mourn the loss of Bothell police officer

Flowers and balloons engulf a Bothell police car
memorial for fallen officer Jonathan Shoop
Photo by Cynthia Sheridan

Bothell Police releases name of fallen officer

It is with a very heavy heart that we identify our fallen officer. Officer Jonathan Shoop was shot while attempting to stop a violator vehicle on July 13th at around 9:40 PM. Officer Shoop died from his wounds at the scene.

Jonathan Shoop started his law enforcement career at the Bothell Police Department on June 3, 2019 after serving in the United States Coast Guard. 

Jonathan was a dedicated officer who served the City of Bothell with professionalism and compassion. Jonathan was well liked amongst his peers and throughout the community. Officer Jonathan Shoop will be dearly missed.

Officer Shoop is survived by his fiancé, his mother, and his two brothers.

Bothell Police Officer Jonathan Shoop
killed in the line of duty
Photo courtesy Bothell Police


Lake Forest Park Police

Last night our brothers and sisters at Bothell Police suffered the tragic loss of an officer who was killed in the line of duty. A second officer was injured and taken to the hospital. The Lake Forest Park Police Department is devastated for these officers, their families, and co-workers. There are no words to express our sadness at this senseless act.

We are heartbroken, as we have worked side by side with Bothell PD for over 20 years, they are our family. We send our deepest condolences to the family of the fallen officer, we pray for the fast recovery of the injured officer and we mourn for the entire department.

Shoreline Police

Our thoughts and prayers are with Bothell Police who lost one officer and had another one injured last night. Keeping them and their families in our thoughts and prayers as well as all officers in the law enforcement community.


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