Agenda for Shoreline council meeting November 22, 2021

Friday, November 19, 2021

2021 Shoreline City Council
The agenda for the November 22, 2021 Shoreline City Council Regular meeting includes two action items and two study items.

Action Item 8(a) Appointment of Pro and Con Committee Members for City of Shoreline Proposition 1: General Obligation Bonds for Parks, Improvements and Park Land Acquisitions

There will be public comment after the staff presentation and before the Council discussion.

Action item 8(b) Adopting the 2022 State Legislative Priorities

At its November 8th meeting, the City Council reviewed and discussed the proposed 2022 State Legislative Priorities. For 2022, staff proposes the continuation of efforts to secure funding and/or other legislative support for: a bike/pedestrian bridge at N 148th Street; planning support, in collaboration with partner cities, for a regional crisis triage center; and increased investment in behavioral health and misdemeanor court diversion.

Study Item 9(a) Discussion of Ordinance No. 950 - Amending Shoreline Municipal Code Chapter 10.20 Speed Limits

After additional review based on Council feedback from the January 4th discussion, staff has developed proposed amendments to SMC Chapter 10.20 Speed Limits for Council consideration, which proposes a speed limit reduction of five (5) miles per hour (mph), from 35 mph to 30 mph, for five of the six study corridors including:
  • N/NE 175th Street from Aurora Avenue N to 15th Avenue NE
  • Meridian Avenue N from N 145th Street to NE 205th Street
  • 15th Avenue NE from NE 145th Street to NE 175th Street
  • Greenwood Avenue N from N 145th Street to NW Innis Arden Way
  • N/NW Richmond Beach Road from 8th Avenue NW to Fremont Avenue N
Analysis of the sixth corridor, 15th Avenue NE from NE 180th Street to NE 196th Street resulted in a recommendation to retain the existing speed limit. Council retains the authority to lower the speed limit on this segment if it chooses.

Study Item 9(b) Discussion of the Transportation Master Plan (TMP) Update

The last update to the TMP was in 2011. Staff will provide Council with an overview of the TMP update progress, a summary of public Outreach Series 2, a refresher on the Vision and Goals, a review of draft project evaluation framework, and an outline of next steps.

Full agenda, staff documents, links to attend meeting virtually, make comments HERE



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Waterfront Seattle construction update

A portion of the brand new bike facility with new landscaping on both sides.

A heavy cloud (literally) that carried a whole river's worth of downpour hovered over Seattle last weekend. 

New southbound lanes, including the transit lane,
looking north on the west side of Alaskan Way S near S Main St.

Through the wind and rain, we are thankful to our team, neighbors and people traveling along the waterfront for their work and patience while we safely completed changes on Alaskan Way over the weekend! 

New pedestrian area looking south at the west side of Alaskan Way S near Yesler Way.

It was worth the work as we now have new southbound lanes, including a transit lane, new sidewalks, new crosswalks and a portion of the brand new bike facility on the west side of Alaskan Way open in Pioneer Square.

Photos courtesy WaterfrontSeattle.org



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Highways in Whatcom, Skagit counties remain closed due to flooding

Thursday, November 18, 2021

Photo courtesy Whatcom County

Floodwaters are receding in Whatcom and Skagit counties, allowing WSDOT to assess and reopen some state highways. However, many highways remain closed even if water no longer covers the roadway. WSDOT still needs to assess each area that was flooded to be sure each highway is safe for travel.

DO NOT GO PAST “ROAD CLOSED” SIGNS. 

In some areas highways have had sections washed away; in others they could be undermined so the pavement looks fine, but there is no ground underneath to support it. WSDOT crews are checking these as quickly as possible.

What drivers should do:
  • If you encounter a water-covered roadway, "Turn around, don't drown." 
  • Do not drive through standing water. Not only is it difficult to tell the condition of the road is underneath the water, it only takes 6 inches of water on the roadway for vehicles to stall and 12 inches of water to carry a vehicle off the roadway.
  • Observe all "Road Closed" signs - they are put in place for your safety.
  • Be alert. WSDOT crews, local public works, emergency responders and utility crews are working to clear and reopen roads as quickly and safely as possible.
What's next 

WSDOT crews will continue to assess its highways as waters recede. If a highway is safe for travel, we will reopen it. If a highway needs repairs, we will plan for and make the repairs. 

Drivers should be prepared for significant delays, lane closures and even detours in some instances - particularly along I-5. Anytime a road is closed, consideration is given to the effect it has on the traveling public. Where repairs are necessary, this process could take time, thanks for your patience.

Find information about local road closures visit Public Works | Whatcom County, WA - Official Website and Skagit County Public Works Road Closures.

The National Weather Service provides updated weather alerts including information about flooding.



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Shoreline UnderGround Holiday Market this Saturday


Shoreline UnderGround Holiday Market
This Saturday, November 20, 2021 from 10am-6pm
Shoreline City Hall Covered Parking Lot

Looking for local, handmade, unique gifts for this holiday season? ShoreLake Arts has teamed up with the Shoreline Farmers Market and the City of Shoreline to bring you the Underground Holiday Market at the Shoreline City Hall covered parking lot (open air).

80+ invited artists, crafters, farmers all under one roof. Start your holiday shopping in Shoreline to find that perfect hand-crafted gift. Other event highlights include live music, food trucks, and wreath making workshops (info below).

We still have space in our 12pm and 1pm wreath making workshop! Join our 'Contemporary Textile Wreath Making' workshop with artist Allyce Wood. Combine traditional floral arrangement techniques with contemporary aesthetics to create beautifully contemporary holiday wreaths!


The Shoreline UnderGround Holiday Market will feature holiday music and performances from a handful of amazing local artists. Enjoy your holiday shopping and browsing as you listen to live musical acts including:

Musical Guest Lineup:
  • 11am - Jeannie Rak
  • 12pm - Cascade Cody
  • 1pm - The Dickens Carolers
  • 2pm - Sarah Brunner
  • 3pm - Magic Key Music

As you come out and support the arts, be sure to plan ahead! Proof of COVID-19 vaccinations or a negative test result (12+) required to enter the market.

Thank you for supporting local artists and farmers and shopping small this holiday season!

Please contact us should you have any questions. Email Terri at programs@shorelakearts.org

Thank you to our partners for helping to make this such a collaborative event this year! The City of Shoreline and the Shoreline Farmers Market!

Shoreline City Hall 17500 Midvale Ave N. Parking garage is immediately north of city hall and the Shoreline Veterans Recognition Plaza.



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Insurance Commissioner: Homeowner and commercial insurance policies typically do not cover flood damage

Whatcom County Sheriff's deputies rescuing
residents in flooded Everson, WA on Wednesday
According to state insurance commissioner Mike Kreidler, "Homeowner and commercial insurance policies typically do not cover flood damage."

If your property is located in a flood-prone area (a "Special Flood Hazard Area"), your lender will likely require you to have flood insurance. 

Even if you live in a minimal or moderate flood hazard area, you may still want to buy flood insurance.
When your policy takes effect

National Flood Insurance Program policies go into effect 30 days after the policy is written, unless the policy is required to qualify for a mortgage. Surplus line policies typically don't have a waiting period.

Tips on flood cleanup and insurance claims
  • Don't attempt to drive through flooded roadways.
  • Check for structural damage before re-entering your home or business. Flood-damaged buildings can collapse. Be cautious about gas leaks or energized wiring in flooded basements.
  • If you have damage, call your insurer or agent.
  • Take photos or video. Make a list of lost or damaged items.
  • Even if you didn't have flood insurance, you may qualify for some federal emergency grants or loans.
  • Talk to your insurer before making permanent repairs or disposing of damaged property.
  • Save receipts from any mitigation efforts (sandbags, pumps, etc.) for possible insurer reimbursement.
  • If you have to move, make sure your insurer or agent has a way to reach you.
  • Save receipts for temporary repairs, temporary housing, food, etc.

SEE ALSO


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Gloria's Birds: Grateful and happy to see the Golden-crowned Sparrow return to our yard

Photo copyright Gloria Z Nagler

They nest mostly in Alaska and western Canada, but hang out with us in the winter, according to my trusty Audubon bird app.

(Yep, brightened up the sparrow's Pacific Northwestern gloomy sky with Photoshop. Maybe she'll stay a little longer:)

--Gloria Z Nagler



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ICHS President and CEO Teresita Batayola announces her December 2022 retirement

ICHS CEO and President Teresita Batayola
Photo courtesy ICHS
Statement of the ICHS Board of Directors on the retirement announcement of President and CEO Teresita Batayola

SEATTLE, Washington, Nov. 17, 2021: International Community Health Services (ICHS) President and CEO Teresita Batayola has announced her intention to retire in December 2022. The ICHS Board of Directors accepts this news with gratitude for her 17 years of transformational leadership.

Batayola has served at ICHS since 2004 and oversaw its growth from two neighborhood clinics to a regional health care network of 11 service sites. 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, she guided ICHS through the establishment of drive-through testing sites, implementation of telehealth, and advocated for vaccine equity and vaccinating diverse communities through its clinics, schools and public sites while addressing vaccine hesitancy. 

ICHS continued to provide care for its patients and participants as it pivoted to also provide lifeline services, distributing food and essential supplies to seniors, families and youth during this period.

“Leadership, especially in a nonprofit organization, is always a marathon,” Batayola said. “Every step matters. But leaders have to know when that marathon is over. My 26th mile is only a marker in ICHS’ history and long future. It is time to prepare to hand over the baton.”

Batayola’s departure at the end of 2022 allows the ICHS Board of Directors time to search for and acquire new leadership and implement a plan for succession. A search committee was convened and will appoint a community advisory group to provide input in the search.

“We are immensely proud and grateful to Teresita for her tireless work,” said ICHS Board President Gildas Cheung. “ICHS is fulfilling the vision of its founders and its mission of providing linguistically and culturally appropriate health care in large part because of her dynamic, innovative and effective leadership.”
ICHS clinic in Shoreline is open to all
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

ICHS is a nonprofit community health center providing culturally and linguistically appropriate health services to improve the wellness of King County’s diverse people and communities. Since its founding in 1973, ICHS has grown from a single storefront clinic in Seattle’s Chinatown-International District with deep roots in the Asian Pacific Islander community, to a regional health care provider employing nearly 600 people with over 27,000 patients speaking 70 languages at 11 clinic locations.



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Epilogue: High school girls’ soccer 3A State Tournament – Shorewood and Shorecrest end against top state teams

Soccer ball photo by Wayne Pridemore
By Tar C. Aw

In an amazing coincidence of symmetry, both Shoreline girls’ high school soccer teams won in District playoffs, earned berths to the State Championship, won their first tournament games, and were eliminated in their second game by the best teams in the state.

Shorewood rampaged through the Wesco League regular season, with a record of 13-2-0, won the District playoff championship, #5 RPI ranking, and seeded #7

Shorecrest struggled through the Wesco League regular season, with a record of 7-6-2, eked through the District playoff finishing fourth, #28 RPI ranking, and seeded #19.

Shorewood played Lakes in their opening State tourney game and won 5-3 to advance to the quarter-final round. There, Thunderbirds would face Metro League Champions, Holy Names, RPI #2 and #2 seed in the state, and were knocked out, 1-5.

Shorecrest played Kelso in their opening State tourney game and won 4-0 to advance to the eighth-final round. There, Scots would face Metro League Runner-up, Lakeside, RPI #3 and #3 seed in the state, and were knocked out, 0-2.

See the brackets here

Both teams have reason to be proud of their achievements, and for each to have their tournament runs only stopped by the two powerhouse teams in the state.

Lakeside Lions and Holy Names Cougars will meet in an almighty Clash Of The Titans on November 19, 2021 to face the winner of Seattle Prep Panthers (RPI #13, #13 seed) versus heavyweight Gig Harbor Tides (RPI #1, #1 seed) in the championship final. 

It is noteworthy that three of the four teams in the semi-finals are private schools from the same 3A Metro League. Who will claim the prize trophy in Sparks Stadium on November 20th?



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Letter to the Editor: Take the City Survey regarding the proposed new sidewalk on 20th Ave NW

To the Editor:

The City of Shoreline is requesting citizen input into the proposed new sidewalk design for 20th Avenue NW, the street that leads into the entrance of the Richmond Beach Saltwater Park. Please take a few moments to complete a brief survey online to let City planners know your thoughts while the sidewalk is still in design.

In 2018, 52% of Shoreline residents voted for—as opposed to 48% against—new sidewalks on twelve streets in Shoreline, funded for twenty years by a .02% sales tax increase. The first sidewalk completed in the City’s new sidewalk program is eleven-foot wide, shared pedestrian and bicycle use along 1st Avenue NE (NE 193rd – NE 195th St). 

The new sidewalk design is along 5th Avenue NE, from NE 175th to NE 182nd Court, where 23 mature trees will be removed for six-foot-wide sidewalks on both sides of this narrow street.

For 20th Ave NW, City planners are proposing a ten-foot wide, shared pedestrian and bicycle sidewalk. Mature trees are at risk, depending on which side of the street the sidewalk is to be placed (to be determined).

The Shoreline Transportation Master Plan, Policy 38.4, page 179 states that the City should “Allow for flexibility in the implementation of the Master Street Plan to address site-specific, unique or unforeseen circumstances, such as the presence of bus stops, topography or large trees.”

Take the survey now and make your voice heard!

Carla Carroll
Shoreline Sidewalk Committee
Tree Preservation Code Team



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Notes from Shoreline council meeting November 15, 2021

Pam Cross, reporter
Shoreline City Council Meeting
November 15, 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 November 15, 2021, as AMERICA RECYCLES DAY in the City of Shoreline and call upon all residents to celebrate this special occasion by thanking their fellow community members and businesses for their hard work and significant contribution in reducing, reusing, and recycling and protecting our environment.

Approval of the Agenda
Agenda approved by unanimous consent.

Report of the City Manager Debbie Tarry

COVID-19 UPDATE

Case rates continue to slowly decline statewide but we remain at a level of high transmission of COVID-19 infections.

Wear a mask, even if you are fully vaccinated. We encourage everyone to get vaccinated and, if eligible, get a booster shot. Visit cdc.gov/coronavirus for information and eligibility. To find available vaccines, visit Vaccines.gov

In accordance with the Public Health Order effective 10/25 in all of King County, proof of vaccination or proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken in the last 72 hours will be provided for: indoor dining, bars, and recreational activities of any size. More information: kingcounty.gov/covid

Vaccine for Ages 5-11


Vaccine Clinic for adults and children


GREEN SHORELINE DAY
Thanks to all of the volunteers!


HOLIDAY EVENTS



PUBLIC REMINDERS

The Planning Commission will hold a virtual meeting on Thursday, Nov 18 at 7PM to discuss 2021 Development Code Amendments - Tree Amendments.

Council Reports
None

Public Comment
(2 minutes per person) Total time extended to allow all who signed up to speak.

The following people spoke in support of Ordinance 948 Regarding C02 Emissions by restricting the use of fossil fuels, specifically natural gas, in Shoreline.

Vivian Korneliussen, Shoreline
Lily Fredericks, Mountlake Terrace, Climate Justice Club at Shorecrest HS
Melinda McBride, Shoreline
Dennis Heller, Shoreline
Ariana Ylvisaker, Shoreline
France Giddings, Shoreline
Lee Keim, Shoreline
Hank Rohs, Bothell, Climate Justice Club at Shorecrest HS
Kathleen Russell, Shoreline, Save Shoreline Trees
Deepa Sivarajan, Seattle, Climate Solutions
Alex Ramel, Bellingham, Stand.Earth
Janet Way, Shoreline
Linda Lawrukovich, Shoreline
Isabella Tancreti, Lake Forest Park, President of Climate Justice Club, Shorecrest HS
TJ Gose, Shoreline, Climate Justice Club at Shorecrest HS
Alex Sargeant, Shoreline
Jackie Kurle, Shoreline

Jackie Kurle, Shoreline (continues)
I want to make sure the public is made aware of any happenings as well as successes at The Oaks shelter on a regular basis, ideally monthly or quarterly, to keep open communication with the public at the forefront of the City’s business.

Approval of the Consent Calendar
Consent Calendar approved unanimously

Action items
8(a) Adoption of Ordinance No. 945 – Amending the 2021-2022 Biennial Budget as Amended, According to the Mid-Biennium Budget Modification
8(b) Adoption of Ordinance No. 946 – Setting the 2022 Regular Property Tax Levy
8(c) Adoption of Ordinance No. 947 – Setting a Fee Schedule for Impact Fees
8(d) Adoption of Resolution No. 484 – Setting the 2022 Fee Schedule

Rick Kirkwood, Budget and Tax Manager, made the presentation

At the November 1 meeting, the Council was presented a brief financial update, recommended adjustments to the 2021-2022 Biennial Budget, and provided information on related policy issues. At the November 8 meeting, the Council conducted public hearings on the 2021-2022 Biennial Budget and the 2021-2026 Capital Improvement Plan Mid-Biennial Update required by state law (RCW 35A.34.130) for the purpose of modifying the City’s biennial budget prior to the City Council’s adoption of proposed Ordinances No. 945, 946, 947 and proposed Resolution No. 484.


DISCUSSION

Motion and second to adopt Ordinance 945.
Motion and second to add Amendment 1 (shown above) to Ordinance 945

There have been previous discussions about this sidewalk going back at least a year. Not only would this sidewalk, if built, serve the Aldercrest Campus, but also the people who live in apartments on 25th NE. This project does not score well on the Safe Routes to School grant program. The City needs to finish it.

Why wouldn’t it score well?
  • Reply Tricia Juhnke: We look at projects for Safe Routes to School every two years. The criteria include accidents, traffic volume, and connectivity. This location has no accident history and it’s a low volume street. It could become more competitive if combined with sidewalk improvements on 25th, perhaps when we build the Maintenance Facility on 25th, or if the Parks Bond is approved there might be a sidewalk by the park there. We haven’t felt it would score well, but we’ll look at it again. If we do it now, we’ll get the grant money in the summer of 2023.
I’ve been against this previously but now I favor it. We have systems in place to rank sidewalk projects and I don’t think we want individual Councilmembers to champion individual projects. But the process doesn’t get looked at very often so it doesn’t take into account changes that happen after the rating is established. We aren’t removing one sidewalk project for another here. I think it makes sense, and $200k is not a problem for me to approve.

Tons of streets in Shoreline need sidewalks. There are lots of school areas. NW 190th St between Richmond Beach Road and 8th Ave NW is a narrow street with a ditch on one side and private property on the other. It serves Syre and Einstein. This is just one example. We’re not district representatives. There are needs throughout the city so I’m opposed to advancing this project.

I support this - I don’t see it as pet project but a community safety project where the case has repeatedly been made.

We all know of areas that need sidewalks to school from home. We represent the entire city. And I don’t want to be inundated with comments “you got that one project through, how about this one?” This one has a funny drop-off, but doesn’t have a lot of traffic and no accidents history. Where is this section on the sidewalk plan?
  • Reply Tricia Juhnke: It is on the sidewalk priority map as a medium priority.
I think about 195th St between Kings Elementary and Einstein Middle School. We’ve got two schools a couple of blocks apart on a very narrow road with a guard rail on one side that pinches it. There’s no question that a sidewalk would be useful in this location and other locations. I don’t have the ability to know for certain which one should be a higher priority and that’s why I tend to rely on the prioritization work that was done by staff.

I want to support this project but I don’t think we should bring up these individual projects - we have their rankings.

There is a challenge because the Sidewalk Matrix didn’t capture the pedestrian path and it will be another 2 or 3 years before we look at the Matrix again.

We know different areas that are in of need sidewalks. I would hope that staff continues to look for grants for all of our schools. We are doing so many changes in our neighborhoods, how often are we reevaluating points - especially if there’s a big project?
  • Reply: We haven’t come up with a system yet, or the timing of when we would reevaluate scores. It was agreed that we need to do that, even if we don’t change our criteria, because, as you’ve said, things could have changed. Right now we’re still focused on the 12 priority sidewalks that are funded with the sales tax increase, so there’s no value in re-scoring until we’ve made more progress on those and can see if we’ll have additional sales tax money.
VOTE on AMENDMENT
Fails 3-4
Opposed: Mayor Hall, CM Chang, CM McGlashan, CM McConnell

Other comments?

I am still suffering sticker shock from the number of changes at mid-biennial. The staff has provided an explanation for each one and they make sense. I’m convinced that we need it and need it now. But I hope we will see fewer in the future.

VOTE Ordinance 945 as presented by staff
Adopted unanimously 7-0

8(b) Adoption of Ordinance No. 946 – Setting the 2022 Regular Property Tax Levy


DISCUSSION

Motion and second to adopt 946

Percentage-wise this is more than we have done in recent years but in 2016 voters said they want us to provide basic services. Inflation has gone up so the cost of providing those services has gone up.

No additional discussion

VOTE
Adopted unanimously by a vote of 7-0

8(c) Adoption of Ordinance No. 947 – Setting a Fee Schedule for Impact Fees

DISCUSSION

Motion and second to adopt 947

These figures were set years ago. Increases are due to inflation. These are real increases - nothing new is being funded. The fees mean growth pays for growth.

VOTE
Adopted unanimously by a vote of 7-0

8(d) Adoption of Resolution No. 484 – Setting the 2022 Fee Schedule

Motion and second to adopt 484

DISCUSSION
None

VOTE
Adopted unanimously by a vote of 7-0

Study item 9(a) Discussion of Ordinance No. 948 – Discussion of Ordinance No. 948 – Amending Chapter 15.05, Construction and Building Codes, of the Shoreline Municipal Code, to Provide Amendments to the Washington State Energy Code - Commercial, as Adopted by the State of Washington

C. Ray Allshouse, Building Official

We are here to discuss changes that are solely applicable to new commercial construction. I am joined by Duane Jonlin, the current Energy Code and Energy Conservation Advisor for Seattle's Department of Construction and Inspections, to assist in answering any questions Council may have.


As discussed on August 16, fossil fuels are the key sources of the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that contribute to climate change. We have goals to reduce GHG at the City and State levels.

The City’s 2019 GHG emissions show a 1.3% increase since 2009. This is not on track to meet near or long term emission reduction goals. We must significantly decrease our GHG emissions in order to meet our 2030 and 2050 targets.

Seattle has resources that we don’t. Seattle determined more energy code provisions would be necessary to meet carbon goals, and they needed to be as cost effective as possible for owners and tenants. Seattle started by establishing a long range roadmap to success, comprised of universal guiding principles as shown on this slide.


Seattle’s aggressive stance on energy conservation and electrification has resulted in a reduction of annual electrical consumption each year notwithstanding ongoing development growth. Shoreline joining the program can only help the overall picture.

Where are we now?
  • 2018 WA State Energy Code was effective Feb 2021
  • 2018 Seattle Energy Code Adoption: Mar 2021
  • Bellingham Ordinance to Council: Nov 2021
  • KingCo Ordinance to Council: First Quarter 2022
State Building Code Council (SBCC) has recently commenced rulemaking for 2021 WA State Energy Code. This is significant because one can expect the incorporation of the bulk of Seattle’s current provisions into the State Commercial Energy Code as early as July of 2023. This will be part and parcel of the next regular State Building Code update.

Note: These proposed amendments apply only to multifamily residential and commercial buildings.
The delays were a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic.
For additional detail, please see the staff report.

DISCUSSION

I think it’s important to note that this is not just an ordinance that bans fossil fuels. It really is a wholesale energy code amendment in terms of making the building better and using electricity more efficiently. It’s actually a whole package; It’s not just limited to the fossil fuel component. What has Seattle’s experience been since adopting this in March 2021 in terms of new applications and/or difficulties in trying to administer this code?
  • Reply Duane Jonlin: Our applications have been “storming along”. There has been no slowing down and people are complying with the new code. Not everybody likes it - but that’s typical. We have made a couple of accommodations for areas that weren’t clear in the code. We found the only real road block has been with existing buildings switching over from conventional heating to heat pumps because it’s expensive and technically difficult.
Can you elaborate on that a little bit? When would it be required?
  • Reply Duane Jonlin: In a situation where a heating system is being completely replaced, we require that it meet the new code. There is an exemption for when a water heater or a boiler (one piece of equipment) is failing, or has failed, you can just replace it like for like. It’s not the time of year to start hiring engineers to replace the entire system. If this was easy, everyone would have done it already (laughter).
I support this. But in the letter we received from Puget Sound Energy, they were discussing RNG (renewable natural gas). What is this and is it a valid argument?
  • Reply Duane Jonlin: I haven’t see that letter but it is an argument that the (natural) gas industry does make that there is a certain amount of renewable natural gas that can be made from methane that comes from land fills, farms, sewage processing plants and so forth. That is a good use of methane. I believe there’s only a very small fraction of our current usage of gas that could be replaced if we were able to get *all* sources of renewable gas captured somehow. My thought is that if you’ve got this renewable natural gas, it’s kind of a precious resource of clean energy and that it would make more sense to use in vehicles. In buildings, you can have a big piece of equipment that sits in the basement but vehicles would work well with natural gas. I can’t really imagine a battery operated fire truck. We’re all in favor of developing renewable natural gas but it’s not a large enough resource to cover it all.
Relative to additions and alterations, do you think that the requirements are proportional to whatever the additions and alterations are?
  • Reply Duane Jonlin: Yes. We try to make the requirements proportional to the size of the project. With additions, whatever “new” you are building has to meet the new code but it typically allows all of the existing building and its facilities to remain as they were. With alterations, in Seattle we have “substantial alterations” when you completely tear down and replace something we treat it pretty much like a new building. You don’t have this concept in Shoreline. As large systems get to the end of their life and you replace them, when the boiler is not working and all of the pipes are rotting out, that is the time that we choose to apply the new code requirements. It will still be more expensive - but it will never be less expensive if you have to do it decades from now.
When we’re talking new construction, are we including townhomes?
  • Reply Duane Jonlin: Townhouses generally fall under the residential energy code. So we treat them like a single family home.
Sometimes in older apartment buildings, each unit has its own water heater. In the new buildings, does each unit have its own water heater? Or do they use a central boiler or something?
  • Reply Duane Jonlin: This ordinance impacts central water heating systems, not individual ones. Taller buildings (over 3 stories) have central water heating systems. We do see individual water heaters in low rise buildings. And, by a quirk of the code, apartment buildings that are 1-3 stories tall also fall under that residential energy code.
I’m curious why individual residences are excluded? New homes in Shoreline are over 2,500sf with a gas fireplace or 2 or more. And electric heat (baseboard heat) is not cost effective so most new homes are being built with gas forced-air, so why are we excluding the “elephant in the room”?
  • Reply Ray Allshouse: It’s the State Legislature at work. They passed this law and I know there is interest and there are probably already bills being put together trying to break that and change direction on that because of what’s happening, but it’s been in the RCW (revised code of Washington) for over a year.
Had this been in effect in 2009, how much closer would we be to our reduction goals?
  • Reply Duane Jonlin: Space heating and water heating are about 90% of gas usage for buildings - the 10% for cooking, fireplaces and dryers. So Shoreline has had this explosion of construction in the last decade. For multi-family it’s likely they are all gas. So I’d say, we’d have cut by 3/4-ish the new GHG that we’ve added in the last decade. But the technology we have now did not exist widely in 2009 so we’re taking advantage of some terrific technological developments.
We are lucky we have electrical power that comes from hydro so we can convert to electricity without worrying that we’re burning coal to get there. And we’re lucky that we have a Council and a community that is on board with making the tough changes that go along with the easy commitments to reducing GHG. It is also helpful to have Councilmembers with a lot of different expertise so questions are asked that wouldn’t even occur to me but once I’ve heard the responses, I feel even more confident that this the right thing to do.

I’m glad we’re moving forward with this - and it would make more sense if we could also apply this to the residential code. Last year’s staff Sustainability Report showed that the carbon footprint of a new suburban house that doesn’t have light rail is more than 10 times the carbon footprint of a multifamily unit within walking distance of light rail. (If they take light rail.)

If we adopt something like this, does this help at a State level? If they see that multiple municipalities have adopted these changes ahead of time?
  • Reply Duane Jonlin: Absolutely. Up until now, it’s only been Seattle. Having it be more widespread with the County and a couple of cities, I think would be a very powerful statement to them.
  • Reply Ray Allshouse: Also, as we look ahead, we’ll actually be able to help Seattle as they develop their next round because they will update their code so we’ll be in a position where Shoreline can tag along a lot closer to Seattle as they go through their next increment.
Building operations are currently responsible for about 28% of all global CO2 emissions. What we can do to reduce the footprint of the buildings that we live in is really important. I’ve submitted to our list of priorities to ask the legislators to consider allowing cities to make changes to the residential energy code.

We will keep this on the calendar as an action item, rather than consent when we see it on December 6. We will require only a brief recap from staff at that time.

MEETING ADJOURNED


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Case updates November 16, 2021

Delta variant
Those over 65 who received Johnson and Johnson shots at any time are being urged to get boosters.

COVID-19 Updates
 

 

United States

  • Total cases 47,244,379 - 96,194 new
  • Total deaths 762,994 - 1,479  new

Washington state

  • Total confirmed cases 667,715 - 1,699 new     
  • Total hospitalizations 41,969 - 246 new     
  • Statewide ICU occupancy by COVID-19 patients - 20.6%
  • Total deaths 9,056  - 27 new     


Levels of Community Transmission:
based on the number of new cases per 100,000 residents in the past 7 days:

High: ≥ 100
Substantial: 50-99
Moderate: 10-49
Low: < 10

King county 
  • Total confirmed cases 160,260 -  402 new   
  • Total hospitalizations 8,675 -   5 new  
  • Total deaths 2,064 -  7 new   
  • Level of community transmission SUBSTANTIAL  

Seattle 
  • Total confirmed cases 39,426  -  -61 new  
  • Total hospitalizations 1,841  -   -2 new    
  • Total deaths 511  -   1 new
  • Level of community transmission SUBSTANTIAL  

Shoreline  
  • Total confirmed cases 3,501 - 16 new    
  • Total hospitalizations 245 -   -1 new   
  • Total deaths 112 - 0 new
  • Level of community transmission: SUBSTANTIAL  

Lake Forest Park 
  • Total confirmed cases 536 - 3 new   
  • Total hospitalizations 22 -    0 new
  • Total deaths 5  - 0 new
  • Level of community transmission: SUBSTANTIAL


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After the storm, the rainbow

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

 
Photo by Lee Lageschulte

The weather has changed so much and so often that any photo will probably not reflect the reality outside your window, but this one shows a little of everything.

And there have been a lot of rainbows recently.



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Freeway cleared near Bellingham; water levels recede in Whatcom county; flooding 'catastrophic' across Canadian border

Flooding. Photo courtesy Whatcom county

WSDOT reports that the trees and dirt have been cleared from I-5 and it has been reopened. As of late Tuesday, water levels were receding throughout Whatcom County (Bellingham)

Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) deputies and search and rescue volunteers worked throughout the night and continued their efforts on Tuesday.

Approximately 100 rescue calls to move people due to the flooding in the north and northeast areas of Whatcom County were responded to on Tuesday. All calls were cleared by early evening.

As of Tuesday evening, roughly 300 people were housed in one of two shelters in the Lynden area.

Over 100 Ferndale residents worked for eight hours Tuesday placing over 3,000 sandbags to protect the levee. The voluntary evacuation for downtown Ferndale remained in place overnight.

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office implored people not to ignore road closure signs.

Drivers have continued to ignore road-closed signs, cars have been stranded/stuck in floodwaters, and drivers have required rescue. This stretches the capacity of our first responders at a critical time.

Just across the Canadian border, the city of Abbotsford is warning of catastrophic flooding of a large low lying area known as Sumas Prairie, urging everyone to evacuate or at least let the police know where they are. It is an agricultural area with dairy cows and chickens and farmers had remained to take care of their stock.

A major pump station at Barrowstown, which keeps water from the Fraser River from flooding the Prairie in in danger of failing. Sumas Prairie extends into Washington. Authorities in the U.S. are monitoring the situation.



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Book review by Aarene Storms: Hearts Unbroken

Hearts Unbroken by Cynthia Leitich Smith

Louise Wolfe is a senior, a journalist for the school newspaper, and a citizen of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. 

When her first real boyfriend mocks and disrespects Native people in front of her, Louise unceremoniously dumps him. 

But when she starts dating the new kid on the school newspaper staff, Louise never quite gets around to telling him about her tribal identity ... until everything goes really wrong.

Set in contemporary Kansas, this own-voices novel spotlights many opinions on racial issues. Some are outright offensive. 

Others are more complicated, just like real people. Through it all, Louise, her younger brother Hughie (who completely stole my heart), and her realistically-flawed parents work to establish their rightful place in the community, and in the world.

Some minor cussing, a few sexual situations, a diverse cast, and an exploration of racial stereotypes. Recommended for ages 14 to adult.

Aarene Storms is a librarian who reads and reviews books for all ages. She can be reached at aarenex@haikufarm.net



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Pediatric flu vaccinations down about 25% from this time last year

Photo courtesy CDC
OLYMPIA – Childhood flu vaccine rates have dropped significantly this fall compared to the previous two flu seasons. 

Now, the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) is encouraging families to get themselves and their children vaccinated as soon as possible to keep people safe and out of the hospital, especially as we head into the holiday season.

Flu is a highly contagious disease that can cause severe illness and death, even in healthy people. 

Recent data from the Washington state immunization information system shows flu vaccinations were down about 25% during the months of September and October for kids ages 6 months through 5 years old. 

Since last year’s flu activity was very low, we expect fewer people to have natural immunity this year due to a lack of exposure, especially in younger age groups.

“Flu can be serious for kids, and a flu vaccine is the best way to protect them. With the holidays quickly approaching, it is crucial parents take precautionary steps now to keep everyone in the family healthy and safe,” said Dr. Tao Sheng Kwan-Gett, Chief Science Officer. 
“A flu vaccine is especially important this year due to the potential dangers of both flu and COVID-19 circulating at the same time.”

Flu activity is unpredictable. The timing, severity, and length can change from one year to the next. Typically, flu activity peaks between December and February, although significant activity can last as late as May.

“We are concerned that our youngest children remain vulnerable to both flu and COVID-19 illness,” said Umair A. Shah, MD, MPH, Secretary of Health. 
Although the COVID-19 vaccine is not yet available for kids 4 and under, the flu vaccine is. As parents, we want to do everything in our power to protect our children – and vaccination is an important tool that’s available to every family in Washington.”

The flu vaccine is available at pharmacies, clinics, and health care provider offices across the state. To search for flu vaccines, visit Vaccines.gov

The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older. When children get their flu vaccine, it is a great time to ensure they are up to date on their other routine childhood immunizations as well. People age 5 and older who are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine can receive it on the same day they receive the flu vaccine.


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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Red Sea

 

Previous cartoons by Whitney Potter HERE



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Shoreline Police: Thief took advantage of a hard-working couple


This individual took advantage of a hard working couple working an overnight job to stay afloat. So, let's find our suspect and get this nice couple some justice.
 
On October 16, 2021 at 9:06am, a Shoreline deputy was dispatched to a theft at a grocery store in the 15300 block of Aurora Ave N. A deputy was met by the victim, who explained she and her husband had been hired to clean the floors overnight.
 
The woman said she left her backpack in a shopping cart at the northeast corner of the store near the bakery. The store closed at midnight. At 2:30am, she discovered the bag was missing.
 
Store surveillance video revealed that the pictured individual rummaged through the victim's bag around 10:26pm. The man is then seen taking the bag and leaving the store two minutes later.


The male was wearing a dark heavy coat, a black beanie with a white Adidas logo and black sweatpants with yellow stripes.
 
The thief stole the victim's cellular phone, identification, and two credit cards. The cards were used to make fraudulent purchases at Target and Starbucks.

If you can identify the suspect or have any knowledge of this case, please contact our 24-hour non-emergency number at 206-296-3311 and reference case #C21032859.

--King County Sheriff's Office


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Case updates November 15, 2021

Delta variant
Those over 65 who received Johnson and Johnson shots at any time are being urged to get boosters.

COVID-19 Updates
 

 

United States

  • Total cases 47,145,861 - 150,191 new
  • Total deaths 761,426 - 1,110  new

Washington state

  • Total confirmed cases 666,016 - 1,046 new     
  • Total hospitalizations 41,723 - 96 new      
  • Statewide ICU occupancy by COVID-19 patients - 19.9%
  • Total deaths 9,029  - 39 new     


Levels of Community Transmission:
based on the number of new cases per 100,000 residents in the past 7 days:

High: ≥ 100
Substantial: 50-99
Moderate: 10-49
Low: < 10

King county 
  • Total confirmed cases 159,858 -  165 new   
  • Total hospitalizations 8,670 -   10 new  
  • Total deaths 2,057 -  3 new   
  • Level of community transmission SUBSTANTIAL  

Seattle 
  • Total confirmed cases 39,487  -  23 new  
  • Total hospitalizations 1,843  -   3 new    
  • Total deaths 510  -   2 new
  • Level of community transmission SUBSTANTIAL  

Shoreline  
  • Total confirmed cases 3,485 - 10 new    
  • Total hospitalizations 246 -   0 new   
  • Total deaths 112 - 0 new
  • Level of community transmission: SUBSTANTIAL  

Lake Forest Park 
  • Total confirmed cases 533 - 1 new   
  • Total hospitalizations 22 -    0 new
  • Total deaths 5  - 0 new
  • Level of community transmission: SUBSTANTIAL

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LFP council special meeting 6pm Thursday includes three public hearings

Lake Forest Park City Council 2021

The Lake Forest Park City Council will hold a special meeting from 6pm to 9pm on Thursday, November 18, 2021 via Zoom.

It will begin with three public hearings.

Public Hearing–Ordinance 1227/Interim Regulations as Relating to Indoor Emergency Shelters and Housing, Transitional Housing, and Permanent Supportive Housing

(Each speaker has 3 minutes to comment)

Public Hearing -Ordinance 1232/Establishing the 2022 Property Tax Levy
(Each speaker has 3 minutes to comment)

Public Hearing
(Each speaker has 3 minutes to comment)
  • Ordinance 1231/Amending the 2021-2022 Budget
  • Ordinance 1233/Setting Sewer Rates for 2022
  • Ordinance 1234/Creating a New Special Revenue Fund Called ARPA FiscalRecovery Fund
  • Resolution 1825/Adopting 2022 User Fee Schedule
Citizen Comments (Each speaker has three minutes to comment)

Information on how to provide oral comments during Citizen Comments here

Information on attending the virtual meeting here. This will also show the agenda with links to staff documents.


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Sneak Peek the Vendors at the LFP Holiday Farmers Market this Sunday, Nov 21

Get your shopping list ready because this Sunday, November 21, 2021 it’s time for the annual Lake Forest Park Thanksgiving Farmers Market and Holiday Crafts Fair.

You won’t want to miss this one-day only return of the market for your chance to do all your holiday shopping. Stock your fridge and pantry for your holiday feasts with amazing, fresh, and straight-from-the-farm delectables from many of your favorite regular season vendors.

Get the best in farm-fresh, seasonal goodness from Alvarez Organic Farm, Bautista Farm, Garden Treasures, Sidhu Farms, and Well Fed Farms. Get delicious mains from Wilson Fish, Well Fed, and La Pasta. And fill out your table with snacks, drinks, and treats from the likes of Everything Elderberry, Greenwood Cider, Lopez Island Vineyards, Pete’s Perfect Toffee, and Rainier Salsa (aka Cascade Valley Farm).

You’ll also want to spend time perusing the abundance of the great crafts vendors including wide variety of handmade creations for every taste, interest, and budget.

Among those you’ll find jewelry from the likes of Ҫa Brille Jewelry, M Jewelry, and T.M. Originals, original artwork from Fotografia Artistica and Je Ne Sais Cluck, and handmade cards from Pink Polka Dots. You’ll also discover a bevy of other gift-worthy items including handbags, clothing, ceramics, candles, soaps, lotions, and more.

Vendors are still being added, so check the full vendor list here for all the updates as they come in. And be sure to mark your calendar for the last holiday market of the season on Sunday, December 19th.

The Lake Forest Park Farmers Market is a program of Third Place Commons, which also presents live music every weekend and a variety of virtual programs via Zoom under the TPC at Home moniker. Upcoming programs include Heat Pump Basics on November 17th, Neighbors Helping Neighbors: Aging Well in your Own Home on November 20th, and Medicare 101 on December 1st.

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 with TPC At Home programs. Learn more at ThirdPlaceCommons.org.



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