Big E Ales is closing its doors on Saturday

Saturday, February 6, 2021

Monka Brewery in Shoreline
Photo by Cynthia Sheridan
Fans of the 4-Corners BrewFest will be sorry to hear that frequent participant Big E Ales will be closing its doors in Lynnwood on Saturday.

Big E is the second local brewer to close its doors. Gallaghers’ Where-U-Brew in Edmonds closed its doors in July 2020.

Read about Big E here and Gallaghers here.

The only brewer in Shoreline is Monka on 15th NE in the North City Business District. They have outdoor dining and food. Take out or dine-in as regulations allow.





Read more...

OPA investigating after sixth Seattle Police Officer self-reports being in D.C. on day mob stormed Capitol

By Seattle Police Department Public Affairs

The Office of Police Accountability is investigating a sixth SPD officer after they self-reported being in Washington D.C. on January 6th, the day a violent mob stormed the U.S. Capitol.

OPA initially began investigating two officers after photos on social media showed them in D.C. on January 6th.

Since then, additional officers self-reported they had also been in DC, bringing the total to six.

While participating in a political event on their own time, out of uniform, violates no policy or law, and the Department fully supports all lawful expressions of First Amendment freedom of speech, OPA is investigating to determine whether the officers engaged in any illegal activities or violated any department policies.

While OPA investigates, two of these officers have been placed on administrative leave. Because the other four officers self-reported and have not yet been found to have violated any policy or law, they remain on-duty. 

SPD Chief Diaz has stated unequivocally that if any SPD officers were directly involved in the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, he will immediately terminate them.



Read more...

Track changes to the Town Center code-related ordinances

As the Lake Forest Park City Council continues consideration of the Town Center Code Update, the Planning Department has posted to the City’s website a “track changes” copy of the five Town Center Code-related ordinances. 

Click here to review the document.

The City Council will be reviewing and discussing this latest draft of the Code Update at its Work Session meeting on February 11, 2021, beginning at 6:00pm.

The item will also be discussed at the Regular Business meeting, which begins at 7:00pm on February 11. Zoom information for attending the meeting will be posted on the agendas.

Interested parties are asked to note the following:
  • The changes tracked in the posted draft ordinances contain only the edits made to the ordinances since the December 24, 2020 drafts were posted and distributed.
  • The final ordinances will show, in track changes, all edits made from the current Lake Forest Park Municipal Code (LFPMC). 
  • A public hearing will be held on February 25, 2021, beginning at 7:00 p.m., to consider all changes made since December 24, 2020.


Read more...

Man shot in parking lot at Aurora Safeway

Aurora Safeway

A fight at 1:30am Thursday, February 4, 2021 led to shots fired in the Aurora Safeway parking lot at 155th and Aurora Ave N.

Workers inside the store, which had closed for the night, heard noise outside, followed by gunshots. 

An employee saw a man running toward the store, being pursued by another man who was still firing his gun.

The Safeway employee opened the door, pulled the victim in and locked the door. The shooter did not attempt to enter.

The victim had been shot in the arm. Workers provided first aid while calling for help. The victim was transported to Harborview and is expected to recover.

The case is being handled by KCSO Major Crimes.



Read more...

Jobs: Mountlake Terrace swim instructor/ lifeguard


City of Mountlake Terrace
Swim Instructor - part-time
Posted February 5, 2021

Position responsible for teaching swim lessons. This position involves reacting efficiently and tactfully with the public and be capable of enforcing regulations firmly and impartially, being patient and enthusiastic while teaching productive swimming lessons to children and adults; setting up and cleaning up lesson area, maintaining communication and relationships with students and parents of their students, and other tasks assigned.

Daytime, evening and/or weekend availability required.

Job description and application


City of Mountlake Terrace
Lifeguard/Swim Instructor - part-time
Posted February 5, 2021

Position responsible for lifeguarding assigned areas of an indoor swimming pool facility as well as teaching swim lessons. This position involves responding to any level of incident around the entire facility, react efficiently and tactfully with the public and be capable of enforcing regulations firmly and impartially, being patient and enthusiastic while teaching productive swimming lessons to children and adults; setting up and cleaning up lesson area, maintaining communication and relationships with students and parents of their students, and other tasks assigned.

Daytime, evening and/or weekend availability required.

Job description and application



Read more...

Jobs: City of Shoreline Capital project engineer

City of Shoreline
Engineer II - Capital Projects

Job will remain open until filled. First review of applications: February 22nd

The City of Shoreline's Public Works department comprises over 60 people in our Utilities and Operations, Surface Water, Transportation Services and Engineering divisions. We are a collaborative team focused on improving our service delivery and our workplace. 

The City's Engineering team supports an annual Capital Improvement Program (CIP) between $50 million and $70 million in projects across the transportation, surface water, wastewater, parks and facilities business lines.

Over the past 20 years, Engineering rebuilt all three miles of Aurora Avenue (SR99) and have started work on three other important, regional corridors. In 2017, Shoreline Public Works became the 8th public works agency in Washington and the 126th in the Nation to achieve accreditation by the American Public Works Association (APWA).

The Position

The City is seeking an experienced engineer/project manager to fill the position of Engineer II – Capital Projects in the Public Works Engineering Division. This position will manage design and construction of projects in transportation, surface water and wastewater, and play a key role in developing the Public Works team's planning, project management and engineering design capability. We are seeking an energetic, innovative, self-starter with a transportation focus who can work independently and as a team member in our growing, fast-paced program.

DEFINITION

Manage the development of the most complex capital projects subject to strict deadlines, including managing public involvement, overseeing consultants, and meeting schedule and budget objectives. Coordinate assigned activities with other divisions, departments and outside agencies. Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with co-workers, other departments, outside agencies, consultants, contractors and citizens, and provide highly responsible and complex project management and engineering support to City departments.




Read more...

Public Art as Art

Friday, February 5, 2021

 
Art and Moon
Photo by Shirley Monson

"Shoreline Soundshell Internatural Station“ sculpture is installed in the Park at Town Center (between Aurora and Meridian near Shoreline City Hall.

Created and designed by Rhiza A+D, an architecture-public art-design team from Portland, Oregon.

Photographer Shirley Monson took one section of a much larger piece to create this interesting photo.



Read more...

AG Ferguson will direct $13.5 million from McKinsey lawsuit toward treatment, prevention, other efforts to address opioid epidemic in Washington state

Payment resolves Ferguson’s investigation into McKinsey’s role fueling the opioid epidemic as consultant for Purdue Pharmaceuticals

SEATTLE — As a result of an investigation launched by Attorney General Bob Ferguson, McKinsey, a multinational consulting firm that worked with Purdue Pharma, will pay $13,465,833 to the Washington State Attorney General’s Office. 

Ferguson is directing the entire amount to be invested in treatment, prevention and other efforts to address the opioid epidemic in Washington.

Today, Ferguson will file a consent decree, or legally enforceable agreement, in King County Superior Court requiring McKinsey to pay Washington $13,465,833 and enact additional corporate reforms. The consent decree resolves Ferguson’s investigation into McKinsey’s conduct for unlawfully fueling the opioid epidemic. 

This consent decree is separate, and different in one important respect from another consent decree involving McKinsey that a coalition of 47 states filed today.

At Ferguson’s insistence, local Washington jurisdictions will not be prohibited from bringing their own suits against McKinsey. 

This provision is the only difference between the legally binding agreement filed in Washington and the 47-state agreement with McKinsey. Ferguson worked with the multistate coalition throughout the investigation.

More information here



Read more...

No, I'm not blushing in response to your off-color joke, photog

a neat and tidy bird poses on a thick branch. Its feathers have a light red rinse on head and throat. Wings are pretty brown stripes and chest is a fluffy muted brown white
Photo by Gloria Z Nagler

I'm a House Finch -- we all look like this! But I am reporting you to The Audubon Society!
--Gloria Z Nagler



 

Read more...

Picking up school assignments

Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Vehicles line up at Einstein Middle School, picking up students' science assignments.



Read more...

Third Place Commons explores superheroes and the Power of Representation on Wed, Feb 24



Representation matters. When we see ourselves reflected in stories and media, we see our possibilities. From Wonder Woman to Black Panther, comics (and their current counterpart, superhero movies) have played no small role in creating powerful visions of our potential.

On Wednesday, February 24th at 7pm, Third Place Commons invites you to explore the impact and significance of these potent images and stories in “Comic Book Reality: Superheroes an the Power of Representation.”

Since their debut in the 1930s, comic books have been a regular part of our pop-culture landscape. While often dismissed as escapist entertainment, these pulp treasures also provide a fascinating lens through which to view our nation’s past, present, and potential future.

In this interactive presentation, journalist and educator T. Andrew Wahl explores how everything from social movements to business concerns to changing demographics have shaped the reality seen in the pages of comics. Drawing from comics including Black Panther, Wonder Woman, Captain America, and others, Wahl shows how four-color heroes aren’t merely confined to paper — they shape the world we live in.

This program is appropriate for adults and teens and is the latest in the Third Place Commons TPC At Home series of virtual events.

REGISTER HERE for Comic Book Reality: Superheroes and the Power of Representation. And bring your teens!

Third Place Commons, a community supported 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, has been building real community in the heart of Lake Forest Park for over 20 years. In addition to presenting its largest program, the Lake Forest Park Farmers Market, Third Place Commons now also fosters real community in digital space. 

To learn more, or to make a gift to support the Commons and the market, visit ThirdPlaceCommons.org



Read more...

Echo Lake cormorants spread their wings - and dive

Photo by Gidget Terpstra

There is a tree on the edge of Echo Lake that has been a home to cormorants for decades. Sometimes the tree is full of roosting birds and sometimes they are out. There is always a lot of activity around the tree.

Echo Lake is stocked with fish each year, which makes the cormorants very happy. Somehow they leave enough for the human fishers.

Photo by Gidget Terpstra
Gidget and Dennis Terpstra were walking on the Interurban Trail by the lake when they saw a cormorant on a branch with his wings spread wide. 

He stayed that way for several minutes while the Terpstras watched. They continued their walk.

When they came back there were not one but three cormorants with their wings spread.

Gidget didn't have to go far to find an explanation. Her associate on the Echo Lake Neighborhood board, Marla Tulio, is a retired marine biologist with a long career at the Seattle Aquarium.

According to Marla,  
Cormorants are deeper diving birds and don’t have as much oil on their feathers as other non-diving birds. 
Their feathers get wet otherwise they would be too buoyant. 
After a good meal they have to dry their feathers. They apparently do this even in the rain.

They can dive very deep, then they have to spread their wings to dry off and stay warm above water again. 
That plus hopefully scoring some nutritious food after their underwater hunt.

There are lots of Cormorants downtown on the piers and aquarium visitors would ask that question all the time.


Read more...

Bitter Lake Play Area and Comfort Station Open House

Online Open House on zoom.us
Tuesday, February 9, 2021 at 6 PM PST
Price: Free
Public · Anyone on or off Facebook

Seattle Parks and Recreation invites the community to participate in an Online Open House on Tuesday, February 9, 2021 at 6:00pm for the Bitter Lake Play Area and Comfort Station Renovation project. 


After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information and directions on how to participate in the webinar. Please join us online to meet the design team and provide input on the three concept designs they have developed.

More information can be found at https://parkways.seattle.gov/.../seattle-parks-and.../

The Play Area and Comfort Station is located at 13035 Linden Ave N, Seattle, WA 98133 in north Seattle.



Read more...

The King County Wastemobile will be in Bothell February 19-21

Mobile hazardous waste collection
Photo courtesy King County

Do you have Household Hazardous Waste that is in need of disposal? 

The King County Wastemobile is making a stop in Bothell Friday – Sunday, February 19 – 21, 2021 from 10am to 5pm, to provide household hazardous waste disposal services for King County residents and accepts a wide variety of materials!

You may drop off items such as antifreeze, batteries, gasoline, fluorescent lights, and pesticides. To view the full list of what you can and cannot bring, learn some safety tips, click here or call the Household Hazards Line with King County at (206) 296-4692.

Location of the Wastemobile:

Can't make it to the Wastemobile? Don’t dispose your hazardous waste like cleaning products, batteries, or pesticides in the garbage or down the drain. 

Take them for safe disposal to the North Seattle Hazardous Waste drop-off site.


North Seattle Hazardous Waste
Sunday – Tuesday
9:30am - 4:30pm

12550 Stone Ave N Seattle, WA 98133

Closed on July 4, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.



Read more...

Case updates February 3, 2021; manage stress and anxiety with Washington Listens

Washington Listens helps people manage stress and anxiety they may be experiencing because of COVID-19. If you or anyone you know is having difficulties managing stress, call the Washington Listens support line at 1-833-681-0211. Hours are from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. TTY and language access services are available by using 7-1-1 or their preferred method. Resources and self-help tips are available on walistens.org


2019 Novel Coronavirus Outbreak (COVID-19)

  • Vaccine Phase Finder Vaccine Locations
Case updates February 3, 2021


United States
  • cases 26,398,337 - 121,212 new cases in one day
  • deaths 449,020 - 3,756 new deaths in one day

Washington state 
  • cases 317,878 - 1,584 in one day
  • hospitalizations 18,071 - 84 in one day
  • deaths 4,416 - 28 in two days

King county
  • cases 77,841 - 264 in one day
  • hospitalizations 4,846 - 3 in one day
  • deaths 1,279 - 9 in one day

Seattle - population 744,995 (2018)
  • cases 19,385 - 55 in one day
  • hospitalizations 1,158 -  6 in one day
  • deaths 331 - 4 in one day

Shoreline - population 56,752 (2018)
  • cases 1,947 - 8 in one day
  • hospitalizations 175 - 0 in one day
  • deaths 85 - 0 in one day

Lake Forest Park - 13,569 (2018)
  • cases 249 - 2 in one day
  • hospitalizations 16 -  -1 in one day
  • deaths 4 - 0 in one day

Read more...

Member of Washington state Proud Boys charged in connection with January 6 riot in National Capitol

Many insurrectionists posed for photos


WASHINGTON STATE — A member of the Proud Boys, a nationalist organization, was arrested Tuesday and charged in federal court in the District of Columbia with obstructing or impeding an official proceeding, among other charges.

Ethan Nordean, aka Rufio Panman, 30, of Washington state (south King county), was charged by criminal complaint in federal court in the District of Columbia with obstructing or impeding an official proceeding, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison; aiding and abetting, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison; and knowingly entering or remaining in restricted building or grounds and violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds, which each carry a maximum penalty of one year in prison. 

Nordean appeared in federal court in the Western District of Washington.

According to charging documents, Nordean is the self-described “Sergeant of Arms” of the Seattle Chapter of the Proud Boys, a group self-described as a “pro-Western fraternal organization for men who refuse to apologize for creating the modern world; aka Western Chauvinists.”


It is alleged that Nordean was observed marching at the front of a group of known Proud Boys shortly before the riot began. It is further alleged that Nordean was among those who entered the U.S. Capitol building after rioters, including certain persons associated with the Proud Boys, forced entry into the Capitol by means of destruction of Federal property. It is also alleged that Nordean was near the front of the crowd of rioters, who collectively approached, confronted, and vastly outnumbered Capitol Police.

On Jan. 8, 2021, Nordean posted a photo on social media of a U.S. Capitol Police officer administering pepper spray on Jan. 6, 2021, with the following caption: “if you feel bad for the police, you are part of the problem. . .”

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason B.A. McCullough and James B. Nelson of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and Taryn Meeks of the Department of Justice’s National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the Western District of Washington. The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, with assistance by the FBI’s Seattle Division.

The FBI is looking for individuals who may have incited or promoted violence of any kind. Anyone with digital material or tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or submit images or videos at https://tips.fbi.gov/



Read more...

Rhodys bloom

Thursday, February 4, 2021

 
Photo by Jan Hansen

I'm still waiting for winter to hit but apparently it's actually spring.




Read more...

Susan Chang will not run for reelection to Shoreline council; Eben Pobee to run for her seat

Susan Chang
At the meeting of the 32nd Legislative District Democrats on Wednesday, February 3, 2021, Susan Chang announced that she would not be running for reelection to her seat on the Shoreline City Council.

“Both my kids are in high school and my son is a senior. I love being on the city council but it’s a lot of work to run a campaign and I want to devote this time to my kids without being torn or feeling guilty.

"It has been an honor to represent the citizens of Shoreline."

Eben Pobee
At the same meeting Eben Pobee announced that he would be running for Position 5 on the City Council, the seat currently held by Chang.

The election is in November and her term runs through the end of the year.

"I'll be fully present for the remainder of my term," Chang said.

Eben Pobee has three children and wants to help create an environment that is safe for his and other children to grow up in. He is excited at the possibility of continuing the work the Susan Chang has done on the council.

Eben is current a Trustee at Shoreline Community College and was recently appointed to the Independent Investigation Team Roster for Shoreline to review police deadly force incidents.

Readers will know him as the President and Artistic Director of JHP Cultural and Diversity Legacy.

Before the pandemic JHP staged an annual cultural heritage festival with troupes performing music and dance from around the world.

Updated quotation from Councilmember Chang

Read more...

Rob Oxford: Are You Ready For Some Football?

By Rob Oxford

The answer is a resounding YES! I am ready for some football.
 
It’s the week of the Super Bowl and I’m ready for some… High School Football.
 
As the state enters Phase 2 of Governor Inslee’s “Healthy Washington” Reopening Plan, the WIAA has given the thumbs up to the beginning of a shortened football season consisting of 5 games. Details have yet to be finalized at press time, but this is great news.
 
Great news for our players. Most of whom learned to play football together in each other’s backyard and on the same playgrounds. Then, as teammates and occasionally adversaries they continued to develop their skills and friendships playing Junior Football for Richmond or Mountlake Terrace. 
 
In middle school they would begin to carry on the friendly rivalry that for decades has been Kellogg vs. Einstein, culminating in the Shorecrest vs. Shorewood H.S. Rotary Cup. An event that each year draws the biggest crowd to Shoreline Stadium of any Friday Night in the Fall.
 
I make no apologies for living east of I-5, I’m a Shorecrest Dad. But I’m confident that I speak for both my fellow Highlander and Thunderbird Moms and Dads when I say we are overjoyed that there will finally be a season. Whether abbreviated or not, this announcement is the first signal that some sense of normalcy is returning to all our lives.
 
There will be few if any fans in the stadium, but high school football should never be about the fans. Team Dinners will most likely be prepackaged snacks enjoyed at a distance, special edition t-shirts will be individually wrapped and hermetically sealed, special guest speakers will offer advice and encouragement via Zoom and players will be required to follow all social distancing protocols. 
 
“Pod Training” for the Scots begins this week under strict guidelines. Players will be split into small position groups and physical contact will be prohibited for the first few days.

Again, this is a rapidly developing situation and more information is sure to follow. I encourage you to check your respective schools’ website for detailed information.  
   
 
Ironically it was only a few weeks ago I received a correspondence informing me…“There’s no football season… so maybe stop giving hope to everyone”.
 
I can’t in good conscience say I expected there to be a spring football season, but I can honestly say I never gave up hope.
 
Good luck to the Shorewood Thunderbirds and Shorecrest Scots. Here’s “hoping” this season is injury free and that no one ever suggests you to stop “hoping”.



Read more...

Case updates February 2, 2021

2019 Novel Coronavirus Outbreak (COVID-19)

  • Vaccine Phase Finder Vaccine Locations
Case updates February 2, 2021


United States
  • cases 26,277,125 - 116,915 new cases in one day
  • deaths 445,264 - 3,433 new deaths in one day

Washington state 
  • cases 316,294 - 1,602 in one day
  • hospitalizations 17,987 - 95 in one day
  • deaths 4,388 - 72 in two days

King county
  • cases 77,577 - 391 in one day
  • hospitalizations 4,843 - 22 in one day
  • deaths 1,270 - 6 in one day

Seattle - population 744,995 (2018)
  • cases 19,330 - 88 in one day
  • hospitalizations 1,152 -  7 in one day
  • deaths 327 -   -1 in one day

Shoreline - population 56,752 (2018)
  • cases 1,939 - 3 in one day
  • hospitalizations 175 - 3 in one day
  • deaths 85 - 0 in one day

Lake Forest Park - 13,569 (2018)
  • cases 247 - 2 in one day
  • hospitalizations 16 -  -1 in one day
  • deaths 4 - 0 in one day

Read more...

Jazz Vespers Valentine's Edition: An Evening with Brian Kirk Sunday


It's February and that means Jazz Vespers is back with more balm for your soul, Valentine’s edition! 

This month features Brian Kirk as a special guest with an interview instead of the usual reflection. Brian Kirk has met and collaborated with many jazz legends and has many interesting stories to share.

And there will be great music to share too. Brian will be on the drums and vibraphone, with Joe Doria on B3 organ, and Jean Chaumont on guitar.

Join us February 14 at 5:00pm @JazzVespersLFP



Read more...

State Patrol asks public's help to identify person involved in breach of Governor's Mansion grounds on January 6

Case number 21-002110

The Washington State Patrol continues to investigate the January 6th breach of the Governor's Mansion grounds in Olympia.
 
They are asking the public for assistance in identifying the subject in the photos. He is being investigated for Assault 3rd for actions that occurred during the breach of the property.

If you know who this person is, please contact the WSP tip line by email at sistips@wsp.wa.gov reference case number 21-002110.



Read more...

Free online presentation: "Seattle: The City Beautiful"

Free online presentation: 
"Seattle: The City Beautiful"
February 19, 2021
12:00 noon – 1:30pm

The Woman’s Century Club invites you to a free online presentation by local architectural historian and preservationist Lawrence Kreisman.

This talk will cover the fascinating history of the Seattle area’s ambition to be an innovative, beautiful and livable metropolitan area. 

Learn about how tycoons, utopians and the famed Olmsted Brothers put their stamp on the development of neighborhoods, parks, transit and communities such as Lake Forest Park and The Highlands. 

For more details and to register, visit this page of the WCC website: 



Read more...

Protesters at Shorewood Wednesday

A portion of the protest flyer
A protest in front of Shorewood High School on Wednesday afternoon, February 3, 2021 raised the issue of a male student accused of sexually assaulting female students being allowed to continue sports activities while he is being investigated.

The protest called for
  • A full reevaluation of existing procedures / processes in addressing allegation of sexual assault
  • Implement policies to suspend students while under police investigation
  • Require seasonal consent classes to prevent and combat rape culture.

Statement from Shoreline Schools

Shoreline Public Schools staff have been made aware of allegations of sexual assault and harassment involving a high school student in our district. We take these allegations very seriously and strongly condemn any form of harassment, assault or violence.

We have communicated these allegations to the Shoreline Police Department as a criminal matter and will continue to partner with them in sharing information regarding these allegations.

Anyone in our school community can contact school administrative staff to report any harassment or sexual assault. Shoreline Schools also maintains the Safe Schools Tip Line to report any school safety issue at  https://shoreline-wa.safeschoolsalert.com/



Read more...

AARP free tax assistance available

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide will begin taking appointments for its free tax preparation and e-filing services, beginning February 1, 2021. Appointments will start Feb. 8, 2021

Due to the limitations of the COVID-19 pandemic, the traditional face-to-face preparation with a Tax-Aide counselor is being replaced with Low-Contact and Contact-Free approaches.

Anyone wishing assistance with their tax preparation needs must first make an appointment. 

Call one of the following numbers and leave a message, A volunteer will call back to set up an appointment. Assistance may also be requested through the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide website www.aarpfoundation.org/taxaide or at 1-888-227-7669.

  • Northwest King County (Seattle north of the Ship Canal and Shoreline): 206-659-6821
  • Shoreline Lake Forest Park Senior Center TaxAide site: 425-610-8186
  • Northeast King County (Bellevue, Kirkland, Bothell, Kenmore, Redmond, Issaquah, North Bend): 1-888-227-7669

Tax preparation interaction with taxpayers will take place either in short meetings at some sites for scanning tax documents, or via telephone and video conferencing. The service will be offered through April 15 and is completely free. Tax-Aide is capable of processing most personal tax returns with some limited exceptions.



Read more...

LFP Town Center Code Work nearing completion

Phillippa Kassover
By Phillippa Kassover, Deputy Mayor and Chair of the Council,
City of Lake Forest Park

During January, the Lake Forest Park city council held six meetings, including an all-day meeting on Saturday January 9, 2021 to review the 12/24/20 draft of chapters in the Municipal Code revising the regulations for the potential redevelopment of our Town Center zone, as well as for a planned Sound Transit commuter parking garage.

Council has discussed the draft, including updated rules to include more trees and plantings in parking lots, better protection for Lyon Creek, good setbacks for surrounding neighborhoods, and improved landscaping that is appropriate for our local ecosystem. 

Council has also discussed capping the number of residential units on the site to 275, including incentives and directives for affordable housing, setting limits on building heights, and improving pedestrian walkways through the area.

Council has heard and received public comment from citizens at all our meetings and the recent Public Hearing at a City Council Special Meeting on January 21st. Council has also received written comments from the property owner and Sound Transit. All of council’s discussions, as well as the comments we have received, will inform the next draft of the regulations. 

This draft will be the subject of council’s discussions at upcoming meetings on February 11th, 16th and 22nd. This final draft will be the subject of a Public Hearing, now scheduled for the agenda of council’s Regular Business Meeting on February 25th.

I want to thank all the citizens who have followed along as council has methodically worked through the many pages of code and made thoughtful comments for council to consider. I also want to thank my council colleagues for their diligence and focus as we have tackled this work virtually under the strain of a global pandemic and unrest in our country. 

I look forward to a positive outcome that reflects our community values and positions our city for an environmentally sustainable and equitable future.

Please keep up-to-date by checking the city website and signing up for meeting notices here:
Lake Forest Park, WA - Official Website (cityoflfp.com)



Read more...

Mountains, wind, and water

 

Photo by Lee Lageschulte


Snow capped mountains, tree covered land, and very choppy water. Hey! If the Inuit have 26 words for snow, do we have 26 words for water? or rain?



Read more...

Agenda for Feb 8 Shoreline Council meeting


The agenda for the February 8, 2021 Shoreline City Council meeting includes one action item and one study item.



The Council will be joined by Karen Wolf, FAICP, Senior Policy Analyst, and Rebeccah Maskin, Demographic Planner, who are lead staff to the King County Growth Management Planning Council. They will further explain the coordinated and collaborative process of establishing the 2024-2044 growth targets for King County and its associated jurisdictions.

Full agenda and instructions for attending and participating HERE

--Pam Cross




Read more...

Suicide of Shorewood sophomore shakes both sides of the district

Photo by Dan Meyers on Unsplash

A 10th grade student at Shorewood, Christopher Herrin, grade 10, died by suicide on January 27, 2021. He had attended middle school at Kellogg on the east corridor, then Shorewood for high school on the west corridor.

Christopher Herrin, previously known as Christopher Wickersham, attended Bay View Elementary School in Burlington, Washington for eight years. His teachers there remember him with great affection.

His death affected students across the district.

Both high schools set up zoom sessions for students who wanted to talk to someone. 

We are saddened by this loss and will make every effort to help our entire school community during this difficult time. - Shorewood 

Losses like these can trigger many emotions. 

The Shorecrest counseling staff is available to support your student. If you would like to reach a Shorecrest Counselor please reach out to our Counseling Office at 206-393-4282. Or, you can access information via our Counseling Webpage at https://www.shorelineschools.org/domain/1125

You can also always access the Safe Schools Alert Tipline to report a concern at any time (it is active 24 hours a day, every day of the year): https://shoreline-wa.safeschoolsalert.com/

Shorewood: Below is information and resources that may be useful to you in helping your student at home. If you would like any other assistance, please do not hesitate to contact our school office at 206-393-4372.

Strategies for Families Coping with the Sudden Loss of a Friend or Loved One

Reactions among teens may be extremely variable in cases of sudden unexpected death or loss. There are generally four phases of grief: but not every person experiences these four phases in a linear process.
  1. Shock and Numbness (stunned, difficulty thinking clearly)
  2. Yearning and Searching (restless, angry, guilty, bewildered)
  3. Disorientation and Disorganization (extreme sadness, possible continued guilt and anger)
  4. Reorganization and Resolution (accept the loss)

It is especially important to encourage teens to talk about death by suicide openly. If needed, parents/guardians should consider looking to school and community resources for specialized support groups that include others dealing with a similar loss.

Community Resources:

Update 2-6-2021: material added from a reader


Read more...

Notes from Shoreline Council meeting Feb 1, 2021

Pam Cross, reporter
Shoreline City Council Meeting for
February 1, 2021
Notes by Pam Cross

Mayor Hall called the remote meeting to order at 7:00pm.

All Councilmembers were present.

Proclamation
I, Will Hall, Mayor of the City of Shoreline, on behalf of the Shoreline City Council, do hereby proclaim February 2021 as BLACK HISTORY MONTH and encourage all residents to learn more about the history, contributions, and achievements of Black people past and present.

Report of the City Manager, Debbie Tarry



Our region, consisting of King, Snohomish and Pierce Counties, has moved to Phase 2 of the Healthy Washington Plan. That means there are a few more activities we can participate in and some restaurants can allow indoor dining.

Continued access to tennis/pickleball courts is dependent on users following the social distancing and mask wearing requirements.

We still need to meet 3 of the 4 criteria in order to remain in Phase 2, so people need to be diligent in adhering to the restrictions so we don’t see an acceleration in cases and don’t go back to Phase 1.


Please continue to protect our community and help us stay in Stage 2 by taking the following preventative measures:
  • Wear a face covering, especially indoors in public settings regardless of the distance between people.
  • Wash or sanitize your hands regularly.
  • Maintain six (6) feet of distance, indoors and outdoors.
  • Get tested at the first sign of illness. And then stay home. Do not go to work or to stores if you’re not feeling well.
  • It is safest to stay at home.

COVID-19 VACCINE
Although there is information available on Shoreline’s website, people are encouraged to go to CovidVaccineWA.org for the most up-to date information on eligibility and locations providing vaccines.

PROPOSITION 1 PRESENTATIONS
Proposition 1 for park improvements and park land acquisition will appear on the April 27 ballot. There will be factual community presentations beginning Feb 2.

Presentations will be conducted via Zoom. For more information about Proposition 1 and to get the Zoom link for the meeting go to shorelinewa.gov/prop1
Note: the remaining dates are:
  • Tuesday, February 9, 12 pm
  • Thursday, February 11, 7 pm
  • Tuesday, February 16, 7 pm
  • Thursday, February 18, 7 pm
  • Wednesday, February 24, 7 pm

Public Reminders
The Planning Commission will hold a remote meeting on Thursday Feb 4 at 7:00pm regarding the Department of Commerce Growth Management Act Briefing and the 2021 Comprehensive Plan Docket

Council Reports
Deputy Mayor Scully, standing in for Mayor Hall, met remotely with Representative Jayapal who shared with him and other elected officials what’s going on in D.C., mostly regarding Coronavirus relief. The attendees were able to express their needs and concerns.

Public Comment
Kathleen Russell, Shoreline, Save Shoreline Trees
addressed Agenda item 8a, the N 175th project, and requested the City consider saving significant trees the entire length of 175th.

Theresa LaCroix, Director of the LFP/Shoreline Senior Center
expressed her heartfelt thanks to the City, Council and residents for continuing support

Jackie Kurle, Shoreline
spoke about ensuring adequate protections around the new enhanced shelter for both the shelter residents and the neighbors

Christiano Steele, Shoreline grocery worker-
would like Council to pass $4 hazard pay for Shoreline grocery workers until a State initiative hopefully offers this.

Approval of the Agenda
Agenda adopted by unanimous consent.

Approval of the Consent Calendar
Consent Calendar approved unanimously by roll call vote.


Study Item 8(a) Discussion of the Preferred Concept for the 175th Street (Stone Avenue N to I-5) Project


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

Staff is seeking Council’s support of the Preferred Design concept. In conjunction with this, staff is looking for direction on the recommendation to include undergrounding of existing overhead utilities as part of the preferred concept.

The design team used the public’s feedback from Phase 2 to develop a preferred concept.

Shared-use path concept A
A main concern was bikes sharing the same paths as pedestrians, especially eastbound bicyclists as they head downhill while mixing with walkers and children at Meridian Park Elementary.
On the other hand, there were positive comments about encouraging families to bike out of the roadway.

Buffered bike lanes concept B
The primary concern was that even with a buffer, there was too much exposure to traffic for bikes.
There was a lot of positive feedback for separating pedestrians from bikes.

Over 50% of users rated Shared-use path as “just right; over 60% of users rated Buffered bike lanes as “just right.”

For both concepts there was concern that the corridor was too wide, and too costly.

Using these results, we have created a Hybrid Concept.


From Stone Ave N (Trader Joe’s) to Wallingford Ave N (Meridian Elementary School)

Additionally, staff propose extending the corridor about 120’ west from Stone to Midvale, in order to provide a bike connection to the Interurban Trail.


Wallingford Ave N (Meridian Elementary) to Meridian Ave N (Ronald Bog)

Both concepts attempt to protect existing street trees.
The median will be hardscaped to avoid maintenance issues.

At the intersection of 175th and Meridian both a roundabout and a signalized intersection were considered. The area is too small for a good roundabout. The signalized concept improves operations, limits impact to Ronald Bog and accommodates bike lanes on Meridian. The signalized intersection eliminates the need to purchase parks property, has a lower capital cost, and lower risk (problems with permitting in sensitive environmental area with unstable peat).This concept was preferred by 70% of users.


Signalized Intersection

The final distance is from Meridian to the I-5 Interchange.


Undergrounding Utilities


The preliminary estimate of undergrounding utilities is a wide range because we are so far out from construction. The design phase may continue into 2023. We are at only 10% of the design phase. As we move towards 30% we’ll have a much better idea of what the cost will be and the ultimate impact to ratepayers.

This project meets the undergrounding criteria. It meets City code, is eligible for the City Light Franchise agreement, and is of sufficient size.

Staff recommends moving forward to 30% design and then reevaluating and developing a better cost estimate for undergrounding.

DISCUSSION

Why should we put bike lanes here? It’s between light rail stations and a busy road.
Reply: there isn’t a good off-corridor bike route between 175th and 185th that goes from Meridian to Midvale.

Should we be discussing the speed limit at this time?
Reply: reducing speed limit won’t change the design on this corridor.

Are buses still running along there? Are the stops still planned to be in the same locations?
Reply: we are working with Metro. Yes, buses are still planned plus maybe a new route on Meridian. Metro prefers not to have pull-outs. They prefer lane stops and plan to keep the stop on 175th where there is a bus shelter.

Hybrid concept with shared lanes while bikers are going uphill and then a buffered lane downhill is a great idea.

The Roundabout would require purchase of parkland. There is no mention of parkland purchase for the signalized intersection. Where will we find the roadway width for the 15’ shared use plan on the Southside of 175th between Meridian and I-5?
Reply: this area is part of the WSDOT coordination. Will have a better idea as we progress. We don’t know at this point but it’s likely some land will have to be purchased.

So either option, we’ll have to purchase some land?
Reply: yes

Roundabouts move a lot more traffic through. I realize the area is difficult to fit a roundabout because of right-of-way concerns and so forth. What kind of a trade off are we making with a signalized intersection as respects traffic capacity?
Reply: The more we worked on this project, the more similar these two options became. There is very little difference in capacity. This location has signals and they would still be there anyway.

Did you also model the AM and PM traffic volumes?
Reply: Yes we did. There was no significant difference.

Don’t think this project needs undergrounding. Since it’s not scheduled for re-development some of the benefits don’t apply here. The parcels that will be affected are the school and the park. In Seattle the city pays for undergrounding, but in Shoreline our residents pay for undergrounding. It’s not fair that Seattle City Light singles us out. Cost of undergrounding is a concern.
Reply: there will still be a cost to relocate the utilities overhead. The cost to underground them is in addition to the cost of relocating the utilities overhead. (About $5.7M for just over 3,000 linear feet of the $43M estimate). It is this additional amount that would be paid by the rate payers.

Everybody in Shoreline will pay. Projects are listed on the utility bill. The first one doesn’t sunset until 2032. Assume we add for 175th. And then we add again for 185th. Then another. This is going to add up.
Reply: Yes. The increase applies citywide.

Is there another project that might come up where we’ll be looking at undergrounding and might regret adding it here?
Reply: For 145th Council decided to not underground. On 185th I don’t think we have a recommendation yet. All new sidewalk projects might add undergrounding.

Have you sought public input on undergrounding?
Reply: not yet.

The segment from Meridian to I-5 stops at I-5 and does not go under it. We’re going to have a Trail Along the Rail and that would make a connection to it. Also the underpass needs some pedestrian safety.
Reply: we will be looking at possible ways to get pedestrians better access under I-5. It’s a challenge because the area is tight.

The staff report states $6M for right of way acquisition. Is this just for easements? Or purchase of some property outright?
Reply: It is possible 4 parcels will be purchased outright. Plus there will be a whole lot of easements.

Where the bus stop is on 175th by the Bog, could we put walkway from Meridian going behind that bus stop so people walking down the sidewalk don’t have to go through the folks waiting at the bus stop? It would just go along the sidewalk (not over Ronald Bog) and create kind of a boardwalk look.
Reply: the sidewalk is already cantilevered because of the bog. That would be very challenging.

We need to save all the trees we can, especially the mature evergreens. The non-native street trees can be replaced by adding native street trees, rather than going to great lengths to save an individual tree (except mature evergreens).

I’m wondering about the visibility of the new pedestrian crossing at 175th and Ashworth (east of Stone). Also, it’s in the middle of a long hill where drivers don’t expect a crossing.
Reply: It will probably have a beacon for visibility and there will be the refuge in the middle of 175th where people can stop before continuing across. The existing crossing at Wallingford will also be upgraded.

Speed limits are aligned with design speed and both of those should align with the target speed. The speed limit is currently 35mph. There are few driveways and no parking. Is physical design of the current road consistent with 35mph? Would this design change that?
Reply: What you look at is a sight distance. We learned there is a surplus of sight distance for 35mph. There aren’t any modifications we plan to do that would affect the design speed of the road. It is designed for an excess of speed over the current posted speed limit.

What would be changed if we designed the corridor for 30mph?
Reply: we will look into it and advise.

What is the minimum width allowed for travel lane at 30mph?
Reply: we’ve reduced some to 10’ but Metro requires wider lanes for the lanes they use.

If designed for Metro, then the driver of a vehicle will feel comfortable speeding. There is nothing to encourage drivers to slow down. In fact, drivers may feel like they can go faster.
Reply: We have reduced interior lanes to 10’ (the minimum), and Metro let us go down to 11’. We can also look at other traffic calming tools but putting in trees and amenities in the amenity zones makes the space seem smaller so people drive slower than if it’s a wide 4 lanes with nothing in the middle.

Guidance: Should staff proceed to 30% design with undergrounding so we can refine our estimate? We have to do it now, because we can’t add it in later. We’re not sure of the cost for design up to 30% because we don’t know what kind of problems the bog will cause.

There was general consensus that this would be money well spent because Councilmembers need additional information before making a decision.


Study Item 8(b) Discussion of Ordinance No. 897 - Amending Shoreline Municipal Code Section 20.50.620, Aurora Square Community Renewal Sign Standards

Nora Gierloff, AICP, Planning Manager, made the presentation


This is about a 70 acre area with Aurora Square (renamed Shoreline Place), the old Sears store, the WSDOT offices and the NW School for Deaf Children, as well as the Alexan Apartments. Locations outside of Shoreline Place are not required to advertise Shoreline Place on their monument signs.

By better addressing the signage needs of businesses, these amendments will support the planned redevelopment of Shoreline Place into a vibrant, mixed-use town center for the City.


We looked at general changes to the sign code such as content neutral language, specified size, type and number of signs, and clarification of sign area calculation. Additionally no business can be listed on a new freestanding sign until any old freestanding sign listing that business is removed or brought into compliance. The $100/day penalty for not installing new signs by September 1, 2017 has been removed.


We also wanted to allow unique or sculptural signs, subject to administrative design review.

Monument signs, located at or slightly above the ground, allow visibility as the tree canopy grows. Pylon signs become lost in the tree growth and lose their visibility.

Due to the size of the property and number of tenants, space for more tenants is allowed.

Retail leasing signs will be allowed due to the many available spaces and the multiple owners of the site.

Allow 1 sign per 250’ of street frontage up to a maximum of 3 signs per parcel per street. Signs must be 100’ apart on same parcel, or 50’ apart from a sign on a neighboring parcel.



Deletion of changeable electronic pylon signs was requested in keeping with the planned pedestrian mixed-use environment. Reduce the percentage of pylon sign area advertising Shoreline Place vs. tenants from 25% to 15%.

Increase in height for the pylon signs from 25’ to 35’ so the existing sign structure can be reused. The current pylon signs are about 35’. There are also allocations for pylon signs which will result in the same number (4) as currently exist but allows more flexibility for their placement.

Since there will be ground floor retail with apartments above, there will be additional sign allowance for ground floor storefronts in addition to the wall signs for apartments.

Ground floor walls without entrances can have signs if they put in windows, landscaping or architectural detailing.

Wayfinding (directional) signs require a 25’ setback from the street to avoid clutter and competition with the monument and pylon signs

Temporary signs advertising special events will be limited for less clutter.

Next steps are to identify any Council proposed code changes and return to Council Feb 22. Sign design guidelines for Shoreline placed will be developed later in 2021.

DISCUSSION

This CRA (Community Renewal Area) was put into place in 2012! Wow.

Allowing signage on the backs or sides of buildings on the street is really nice - it prevents a wall of just bricks and dumpsters.

Perimeter lighting is limited. What about holiday lighting?
Reply: It is consistent with the overall sign code for the City.

It can be pretty - or it can be hideous. Best to maintain prohibition of perimeter lighting.

This will come back to Council on consent.

Meeting Adjourned.



Read more...
ShorelineAreaNews.com
Facebook: Shoreline Area News
Twitter: @ShorelineArea
Daily Email edition (don't forget to respond to the Follow.it email)

  © Blogger template The Professional Template II by Ourblogtemplates.com 2009

Back to TOP