OPINION: Proposed SR 520 widening threatens Bear Creek

Editor's Update, 2/9/2011

Opinion:  $8M funds were approved by the state legislature to alter the creek away from the highway widening.  Finance Chair Ross Hunter had a lot to do with funding approval along with impetus from the city, the regional watershed coalition and engaged citizens.  The City approved $2M for the project.  No work has been done on the project after more thant two years.  Engaged citizens think it's because of an archaeological site and lack of flooding onto the new highway. The new highway was elevated during construction and severe flooding hasn't encroached the highway.  The comments below this post may be of interest to you.  B.Y.

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OPINION:  The Department of Transportation "flyway" construction on SR 520 & Redmond Way is just the beginning of more to come.

If the Washington Department of Transportation (WSDOT) gets it's way SR 520 will be widened to within 50 feet of Bear Creek. Yes, that's right! However, WE may be able to improve the project if WE speak up and write to the City of Redmond by December 9.

Many citizens consider Bear Creek a vital part of our city culture and heritage. Thousands of years ago Sqwak indians lived off the salmon and mussels of Bear Creek. Today, families walk behind Redmond Town Center to observe and enjoy the scenic creek, salmon habitat, and riparian foliage. Teachers take their students to the creek in the Fall to release salmon fry. In 1999 the Chinook salmon were declared a federal threatened species. WSDOT will have to remove many of the trees that provide shade and cool water needed for survival of Chinook. Treated, roadside stormwater with drain into the creek. And, the creek would remain a straight-line ditch without off-channel salmon rearing opportunities.

See an aerial photo of Bear Creek & 520 widening site: http://tinyurl.com/2ks8t2

Concerned citizens can't stop this project but we can write the following city planner and state representatives to request WDOT not build on top of Shoreline buffers -- within 50 feet of Bear Creek Chinook habitat.

The most important person to write right now is Cathy Beam, Principle Planner, City of Redmond. Comments are due to Ms. Beam by December 9. You can email Cathy at: cbeam@redmond.gov . Or fax: 425-556-2400. Questions? Call Cathy at 425-556-2429.

In your email to Ms. Beam: reference to File # L070501 or just mention the SR 520 widening project. Mention your concerns about the salmon habitat, noise buffering and anything else important to you and ask to re-route Bear Creek away from the WSDOT 520 widening project. Be sure to leave your name and address.

Your letter to Ms. Cathy Beam is very important because it also registers you to participate in the Shoreline Permit and Buffer Variance Permit proceedings should you so choose. This site will be updated on a regular basis for your convenience.

Five years ago the Shorelines Management Citizens Advisory Committee spent months carefully crafting a Shorelines Management Policy for Redmond. 150 foot buffers were approved by the City Council --which WSDOT is now requesting to ignore in their Buffer Variance Permit application. Is this fair? Is it right? Will you write your representatives?


Contact Senator Rodney Tom, Representatives Ross Hunter and Deborah Eddy HERE:
http://apps.leg.wa.gov/DistrictFinder/Results.aspx?city=Redmond&street=10019%20169th%20AVe%20ne&zip=98052 Citizens outside of Redmond can locate their Representative's contact information at this link, too.


Representative Deborah Eddy is a crucial contact for us since she is Vice-Chair of the "Local Government Committee". Her committee deals with land use and local permitting issues. Ms. Eddy's website is HERE: http://www1.leg.wa.gov/house/eddy

Representative Campbell: House Select Environmental Committee http://www1.leg.wa.gov/house/campbell

Senate members or Natural Resources and Recreation Committee http://www.leg.wa.gov/Senate/Committees/NROR/members.htm

James Peter, Permit Review, WA. Department of Ecology mailto:dapa461@ecy.wa.gov
FYI, Washington State Environmental Hearings Office Website is: http://www.eho.wa.gov/. This office hears appeals to the Shoreline Management Act. The City of Redmond hears appeals to the Buffer Variance.

Feel free to post personal comments here.

By Bob Yoder
Opinion updated on 2/9/2011

Redevelopment of Redmond Streets and Highways

The City Council meeting of 11/20 was centered on the redevelopment work, planned but not approved, for SR 520 widening near Marymoor Park and the light at 166th AV. & 104th ST. intersection by Redmond Junior High.

SR 520 widening by Bear Creek:
The proposed SR520 widening near Bear Creek drew attention from "Citizen Vicky" and Brian Dennis - both gave 4 minute "Items" talks to council. Vicky made a plea to citizens to write their legislatures to hold off on the widening until the Evergreen Point bridge was fixed. Brian agreed and asked staff and council to take a hard look at noise mitigation requirements.

Brian and Vicky are not the only citizens concerned about SR 520 widening. Three citizen groups have formed in opposition of 520 widening - many asking to re-route the creek away from the highway. My next blog will give detail and, again, a plea to write your state representatives. This project will bring SR 520 fifty feet from Break Creek where 150 foot buffers are required now by city law.

166th Av & NE 104th St traffic light by Redmond Junior High
John Marchione had preliminary concerns about approving a consultant for final design of the light because the traffic light installation included up to four blocks of rechannelization. A federal grant will pay for the installation but Marchione objected stating Council would be untrue to the Open Public Process they committed to for any rechannelization.

Channelization related to the light could extend as far as NE 100th ST and could be completed by the end of 2008. Staff stated the purpose of the modest channelization was to: 1) help make the intersection run efficiently, 2) improvements to pedestrian safety, 3) the grant paid for it.

Richard Cole was most unyielding of the council. He emphatically stated during election doorbelling he talked to "several hundreds" and "it was unanimous everyone" was against the rechannelization -- especially along the hill. One should know that Mr. Cole's constituents and neighborhood is in N. Redmond where faster traffic through 166th to downtown is valued. Cole didn't feel design work was needed to calculate safety requirements in front of the school.

Vice President, Councilman Pat Vache offered the most widely accepted comments that the redevelopement should be all about SAFETY -- not how many feet from the intersection rechannelization should go. Ives and Allen supported Vache's emphasis on safety. Vache agreed to preliminary design work. Marchione motioned to approve the grant but bring it back to council for preliminary review before bidding work would begin. Approved.

President Nancy McCormick noted that the speed study done by Evans Consultants did not include buses and trucks. Mr. Cairns, Traffic Planner, said they would be included in further reviews and that a public process was required for any extensive rechannelization - as required by Council.

.

Of a personal note:

I can find four good reasons why rechannelization from 4 lanes to 3 lanes would be valuable to our neighborhood:

1) The Neighborhood Community Advisory Committee met for months on the issue and after thorough review voted for rechannelization,

2) The City paid good taxpayer dollars for an independent, qualified consultant whose recommendations were to build the 4:3 conversion; the city ALWAYS accepts qualified consultants for land use applications - why not here?

3) City Council passed "Streets" legislation committing to building new streets that are bicycle friendly. A 4:3 conversion would create wider sidewalks and bike lanes!

4) The council plans to hold public meetings on any rechannelization proposed outside of the traffic light project.

Redmond's Historical program features our city "Park Ranger"!

The Redmond Historical Society meeting of November 10 featured a slide talk by Peter Holte, our city's environmental "Stewardship Coordinator". Peter wears many hats but I have always liken him to a "city park ranger". (Peter once helped me get some land-use stream maps when I was studying the Critical Area Ordinance.)

At the historical program I felt like I was listening to a national park talk - but we were at the Old Redmond School House! I took a few notes:

• 35,000 years ago Redmond was under a glacial lake.


• the length of the Sammamish River used to be 28 miles long. The River was straightened in 1912 and 1963 for flood control. It is 10 miles shorter today.


• the Army Corps of Engineers "took the kinks out" to handle 40 year floods - we haven't had any.


• After straightening, the river became became known as a "slough" (slow moving body of water) and is now technically a "flood conveyance facility".


• One of the most significant pollutants from roadway stormwater run-off is copper. Automobile brakes used to be made with asbestos and now copper is used.

Peter mentioned the re-channeling the Sammamish River during the 90th Street Bridge construction - to make the river more serpentine. In 1999 salmon were put on the endangered list and making the river "curvy" helps salmon survive.

Stormwater construction is going on now at Luke McRedmond park near city hall. The project involves making part of the slough curvy and serpentine to help the salmon, but also to control and treat the stormwater run out of large, new outfall.

Sidebar: Not spoken at the meeting but a couple of RHS (Redmond Historical Society) members have joined other citizens in advocating to re route Bear Creek away from SR520 and make it serpentine and more salmon friendly. Why? The WDOT (Dept. of Transportation) has plans to widen 520 bringing the highway only about 50-feet from the Creek!

Peter mentioned that converting our straight-ditch Bear Creek and Sammamish River to a serpentine routing helps salmon by providing "off-channel rearing" places. Salmon just don't get the shelter and cool water they need in a straight-ditch owing to the faster running waters.

Peter gave us some interesting history of Redmond's development:

Prior to the 1800's, Sqwak Indians inhabited the Redmond area; known as the "Willow People". Sqwak tribes were related to the Snoqualmie and Duamish tribes. 1871 - first land claim; 1876 - first steamboat on Sammamish River; 1880 - logging boom (firs 12 feet in diameter); 1890 - transition to farming; 1892 - first drainage district; 1916 - river drops 9 feet after Ballard Ship lock was built; 1963-64 river straightened into a slough. Peter asked the society for help in naming 1 or 2 streams. Only 4 have names. Mackey Creek is one.

Peter Holte's environmental city work is interfaced often with citizens who what to help. If you want to volunteer in one of his stewardship programs call: 425-556-2822. Or email Peter at pholte@redmond.gov. Students looking for community volunteer credits can work in his storm drain stenciling program or stream steward program.

Many thanks to the RHS for providing this interesting program. http://www.redmondhistory.org/

Marchione shouldn't be fingered for Redmond's skyscraping growth

As of this writing, John Marchione is 16% ahead of Jim Robinson with 45% of the registered voting and all precincts reporting. John has it in the bag.

From the day John pulled ahead I've heard a number of Jim's supporters state concerns that "Marchione will turn Redmond will be another Bellevue"; "Marchione will assert the values of Bellevue upon Redmond"; "Marchione will draw in businesses and grow tall skyscrapers".

These accusations about Marchione are emotionally charged and not sound. Our "strong mayor" form of government doesn't empower Mayor-elect Marchione to set growth policy. Land -Use policy decisions shaping our growth resides with Council and the Planning Commission, not the mayor.

The Council listens to the mayor, city staff, planning commission, and citizens about growth issues. Council then decides on their growth policy, by vote. Mayor Marchione won't vote. John will supply information to Council needed to make their decision. And, he will carry out the Council's growth policies. The advantage of Marchione for Mayor are his regional relationships with Bellevue, Kirkland and other neighboring cities. John will be able to facilitate our council's policy with greater alacrity and effectiveness than our tenured, home-spun Jim Robinson.

Rosemary Ives' appointed commissioners have already recommended a 10 + story skyscraper at the Group Health site on Overlake. It appears our Council is all for giving the free market room to grow taller buildings (skyscrapers) in the Overlake Urban neighborhood. By growing "up" planners figure more open space can be saved for urban parks.

In short, many major decisions about how Redmond will grow and look have already been made by our council (including Robinson) under the Ives administration. The wheels are already in motion to urbanize Overlake with or without John as mayor. A major, $40M regional stormwater facility for our downtown has already been approved for Redmond Way and NE 8oth Street. $30M Bear Creek Parkway is approved by council. Robinson voted on all of them. When the streets get torn up and traffic staggers, don't blame John. The entire council voted on the plan under the assistance of Mayor Ives.

So, what do you have to say about that?!

John Marchione is soon our 10th Mayor!

SEATTLE TIMES EDITORIAL, "Redmond Looks Ahead", 11/12

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KOMO Interview with Doreen Marchione, past Redmond Mayor and mother of John Marchione, "click link" for the podcast:

http://www.komoradio.com/home/ondemand/podcasts/audio/11240836.html?video=pop&t=a

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As of Tuesday November 16, Marchione is ahead of Robinson by 1568 votes (58%) and climbing! Are we hearing "mandate"?!

45% of the electorate have cast a ballot and we are still counting.

Brian Seitz is over 200 + votes behind David Carson.

Hank Margeson and Richard Cole are far ahead.

Hank Myers won an uncontested race.

UP-TO-THE-MINUTE ELECTION RETURNS HERE!.

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SEATTLE TIMES, 11/7 by Ashley Bach

"If Marchione wins, it will be a blow to outgoing Mayor Rosemarie Ives, who aggressively supported his opponent, Council-member Jim Robinson, and who beat Marchione's mother, Doreen, for mayor 16 years ago.

A Marchione victory would be a boost for business interests in the city. Robinson wanted to raise taxes to ensure businesses paid for growth, while Marchione said business growth pays for itself and improves the city.

...Residents said "it was time for a change, time for professional management and that includes the whole community", he said. ...Marchione said 'he was delighted by the early results and was looking forward to bringing the community together after a divisive race.'

-- Ashley Bach, the Seattle Times.

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The End !

Bob Yoder, Education Hill

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Patti & Hank Margeson had graciously set up a candidate sign home "collection-dissasembly center" which is now closed.

Most of Cole’s new signs can be recycled and they have the recycled logo on them - old ones go in the trash. Margeson’s & Colin’s signs can be recycled in the curbside containers. Marchione, Carson and Myers are reusing theirs and would like them back, please call or email for pick up information. Contact Seitz, Robinson and Schuelke to get their signs back to them.

Preliminary Election Results, 11/7/07

PRELIMINARY ELECTION RESULTS - 11/7/07

Ballots Cast/Registered Voters:..............5657/23707...............23.86% Poll Precincts Counted/Total Poll Precincts:........ 59 / 59 .....100% City of Redmond Mayor

John Marchione

...............................NP

2953................

56.52%

Jim Robinson

.....................................NP2263

................43.31%

Write-in

......................................................9

..................0.17%

.

City of Redmond Council Position No. 1

Hank Myers

..................................... .NP

3651

................98.46%

Write-in

........................................... ..........57

.............,,,..1.54%

City of Redmond Council Position No. 3

Brian Conlin........................................

NP

1580

................35.61%

Dayle (Hank) Margeson

.....................NP

2848

................64.19%

Write-in.......................................................

9..................

0.20%

Redmond City Council Seat 5 Michallea Schuelke

--------....................NP

1563

.....................33.91%

Richard Cole....................................

NP

3035

...................65.85%

Write-in

.............................................................................

0.24%

.

City of Redmond Council Position No. 7

Brian Seitz

........................................NP

2130

...................47.74%

David Carson................................NP 2326.................52.13%

.

UP TO THE THE MINUTE ELECTION RETURNS HERE!

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"Rosemarie Ives has been a fine Mayor for eight years. Unfortunately, she's been in office for 16. Her administration now echoes the attitude of a political lifer: stout opposition to funding "first things first" relaxed tolerance for government growth and higher taxes and contempt for those who feel otherwise".

-- John Carlson, "Redmond Reporter" columnist, 11/3

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"In Redmond, John Marchione has the right stuff to be a very good mayor."

-- SEATTLE TIMES "Opinion", Sunday, 11/4

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Short video clip: "10 reasons to vote for John Marchione!--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

UP TO THE THE MINUTE ELECTION RETURNS HERE!

Technorati Profile

10/30, "Trick or Treat" - Robinson knocks

Endorsements and campaign signs have gotten a little out of control in the election battlefield. For instance, Jim Robinson is proud of his Police endorsement, yet in the 2003 mayoral race he accused Holly Placket of unethical practices when she accepted a Police endorsement.

In contrast, John Marchione stated in his August 2 BLOG he would not accept endorsements from any union where he may need to negotiate contracts because he feels it's unethical. John’s campaign decision demonstrates INTEGRITY. One might say, Robinson's acceptance of the Police endorsement sticks out like a sore thumb – like the police tag stuck on all his signs.

Yes, all candidate signs are quite loud these days but there is no denying that the multitude of Red & Blue "Police" signs staked "in two's and three's" everywhere are overwhelming.....ESPECIALLY, in light of Mr. Robinson's campaign challenge to Holly Plackett and John Marchione declaring:

"Yard signs are a significant source of visual clutter and have a negative impact on our environment, both by the resources used and the litter remaining after the election season is over. In addition, the proliferation of the number of signs in recent elections, especially in the public rights of way, can create hazardous conditions for drivers. Mr. Robinson believes that preserving the natural environment in Redmond is very high on the citizens’ list of priorities and so has proposed this small but significant step toward achieving that outcome."

-- Jim Robinson Press Release, 2007

I wonder who is winning the mayoral sign battle this election?! In Mr. Robinson's words, signs are a "significant source of visual clutter and have a negative impact on our environment". Isn't there something HERE to be said about the INTEGRITY of the leaders we choose...even if costumed in a "trick or treat" campaign challenge?

Bob

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FROM SUZANNE QUERRY - It's a sad day when elections in Redmond start looking like the partisan national elections that make us all cringe. Who knew that special interests would start running our city? For years we've had a mayor and a majority of the city council who were independent and didn't answer to special interests. Now we have at least two candidates being funded by and therefore beholden to such groups as the Master Builders Association and some group called the Coalition for Eastside Cities. Both groups have seen fit to inundate us with unwelcome robo-calls touting the virtues of John Marchione and David Carson. Mr. Marchione has the savvy to denounce the tactics of these groups. Mr Carson does not. Both groups are not adhering to the spirit or letter of the law regarding unsolicited pre-recorded calls. I urge each of you as voters in Redmond to reject such tactics and the candidates who will be beholden to these groups, whether they requested the support or not. The truth is that we do not want our city run by people who owe debts to well funded ultra-conservative groups that want to continue stripping such resources as Perrigo Heights and pave over what little bits of paradise we still have in our little town. Vote for the candidates who have demonstrated their independence.

--Suzanne Querry, 11/2/07

FROM BOB YODER - Remember please, the Perrigo Heights Woodland "paradise" was stripped under the Rosemarie Ives Administration with Mr. Jim Robinson, Chair of Council Parks leading the way. Efficient use of tax dollar resources by the Marchione administration will improve the liklihood of saving future natural treasures. Why? Money will be budgeted for these exceptional community needs by creating efficiencies and establishing priorities within our government. The Marchione administration is most ABLE to listen to our neighborhood and community needs and to plan, prepare, and respond to meeting them.
--Bob Yoder, Saturday November 3, 2007


FROM A NEIGHBOR, 11/4 Robinson boasts about his signs being recyclable. It may be true, however in practical use; they cannot be fixed, because they are so cheap. Once broken it is in garbage. Marchione, Cole, Margeson and Carson’s are made out of plastic, all can be fixed and put back in use. Now the streets are cluttered with deceased Robinson signs. When will they clean it up or do we have to wait until election is over? It’s worse than an over-application of beauty bark. Not the most “green” product for the most “green” candidate.
Sunday November 4, 2007 -

10/26, "MY TURN"

Of the Council races, Richard Cole is a powerful incumbent with broad bipartisan support and a TIMES endorsement. 33-year old Brian Seitz won the TIMES endorsement and opposes Dave Carson. Carson is a fiscal conservative endorsed by the Redmond Firefighters. I admire these candidates but have no strong feelings.

I ESPECIALLY value Dayle "Hank" Margeson for Council. Not only did Hank get a "VERY GOOD" Muni League rating, he has been one of the most active in city government of any other council candidate running. For years he took leadership on the Parks Board. He actively participated on the Education HILL CAC, He is a dedicated parent and coach in youth sports teams. His wife, Pattie is 110% behind Hank's goals and ambitions; same for his two fine children. Hank loves people and loves meeting the electorate. His enthusiasm has generated endorsements from City Firemen, Redmond City Hall Employees' Assoc., Cascade Bicycle Club, Councilman Marchione, Parks and Trails Chair Sue Stewart, and the Eastside Business Association. I know of no other candidate with the universal appeal of Hank Margeson. Right now, Hank is ONE candidate I KNOW for sure I will vote for! (Another is John). Hank wants to find ways to create affordable housing options for his younger children and their friends so they can continue to affordably live in our hometown near their families.

John Marchione's "Outstanding" rating reassures voters he meets the Muni League's highest objective measure for success in office and exceeds Robinson by 2 levels. We find comfort knowing John has achieved the Muni League's "best & brightest standards". Recently, the "Seattle Times" recommended John Marchione as their only choice for Mayor, for the same reason I'm voting for John -- John's leadership attributes, regional appeal, education and city management experience make him most equiped for our "strong mayor" form of government.

In the last election, Jim Robinson voted against our "strong Mayor" form of government. Yet, if Jim wins - by implication - he will be burdened with a role which he really isn't passionate about -- "Chief Administrative Officer". Mr. Robinson. has stated he would rather just study "the facts and data" and let "the Process" take care of itself. Jim's governing style, though thoughtful, appears dependent and lacking in leadership.

Redmond is at the crossroads of a growth & traffic bubble and we need more than ever a "strong mayor" with the right stuff at the vanguard -- John Marchione. It's reassuring to know that John shares the passions for our hometown; he's been a native of Redmond in all but the first 4 years of his life, has two children in Redmond schools and plans to expand & rejuvenate Derby Days.

Despite Jim Robinson's humble Muni rating of "Good", huge support from Mayor Ives and her appointed city cronies transfers onto Jim the likeness of an incumbent! But alas, just who is this man?! I've had coffee with Jim three times and a private meeting at his house and I'm still puzzled by how he will get us to whereever he's going.

A few facts about the Mayoral candidates you may not know:

John Marchione: 1) voted to preserve Anderson Park rather than strip trees and build a service road on it. 2) has lived in Redmond since he was 4 years old, including Rose Hill. 3) was trained and educated with a Masters degree to manage a municipality and CFO for Meydenbauer. 4) has bipartisan support, 5) sits on a regional board to speak for Redmond's water supply needs. 6) the Chair and co-Chair of Redmond's Art Commission and the Trails Chair endorse John.

Jim Robinson: 1) "traveled the world", in part, as a french translator for Boeing and works in an Everett office cubicle , 2) voted in the last election against our present *"strong mayor" form of government, 3) has three college degrees, 4) During the CAO Hearing motioned to keep wetland and stream buffers small & less protected 5) had an epiphany to maintain Redmond's present "home town" look and feel in spite of significant urbanization required for our downtown. 6) voted against saving Anderson Park in favor of less expensive upgrades to a wellhead.

Finally, as important as the Muni League ratings are to voters, don't you think it's a good idea, before voting, to look twice at candidates who made no attempt to participate in the evaluations? (Carson tells me he DID call the League but they never set up an apointment),.

-- Bob Yoder, Education Hill

* In a "strong mayor" form of government, the mayor works full time as both our elected representative and the full-time Chief Administrative Officer in charge of managing all city employees and running the government. Compensation is $121,900

10/17/07, Candidate website and voter center

LINKS TO: Campaign websites, candidate blogs and videos, ratings, Seattle Times stories and endorsements, independent blogs, county election and voter information.

"Click here"

http://blog.360.yahoo.com/blog-2Omg3BU9eqXu5wxoSJuocgLo0tS9?p=719

10/20/07, Do Muni-League ratings predict outcomes?

Many residents and businesses are not getting the Redmond Reporter for one reason or another. And, it's rare to see a "Letter".

So when I found a Letter to the Editor from Margaret Doman in the October 13, 2007 paper I wanted to share it with you....particularly because Margaret is a former Redmond City Councilmember of 8 years AND she has something helpful to say about the election, and I quote:

"...I served on the Redmond City Council from 1983-1991 and have closely followed local politics in the ensuing years. It is my observation that the Municipal League ratings accurately predict (and, in the case of incumbents, reflect) the performance of most elected officials.

Ratings of "Outstanding" and "Very Good" are indicative of the best and the brightest which is what I want in government leadership. Congratulations to the office seekers who received top ratings..."

-Margaret Doman, former Redmond City Councilmember. 10/13/2007

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Below, are the The Muni-League ratings:

MAYOR

1. John Marchione -- "Outstanding"
   
2. Jim Robinson -- "Good"

COUNCIL Seat #3

1. Dayle "Hank" Margeson -- "Very Good"
   
2. Brian Colin -- "Good"

COUNCIL Seat #7

1. Brian Seitz -- "Very Good"
   
2. David Carson -- "Good" [unable to participate]

COUNCIL Seat #5

1. Richard Cole (incumbent) -- "Very Good"
   
2. Michallea Schuelke -- "Adequate" [declined to participate]

10/15/07, Redmond's new hybrid bike - street ornament or bike rack?

Have you noticed this green metal "bike" mounted to the Redmond library sidewalk? Click lower right corner of photo to magnify. Could this be another addition to "The Mayor Ives outdoor-art collection?" At first, I was just kidding.

But, now I read in the 10/13/07 "Redmond Reporter" Rosemarie Ives is serious! The Reporter article says: "The new bike rack on NE 85th St. looks just like a bike. It's eye-catching, yet functional piece of street art, said Joel Pfundt, principal planner of the City or Redmond's transportation services division".

I asked three arts commissioners about this "street art rack". None knew about it. Two commissioners told me this "bike bike rack" is not outdoor art. In fact, it could raise the bar and muddy the water even more for what is outdoor art.

Should Rosemarie have included and informed the *Redmond Art Commission in her Administration's transportation staff "street art" trial? You may send comments to the arts commissioners at RAC@redmond.gov.

To know it's a bike rack (besides being told) you have to stoop down and read the manufacturer's label on the bike. It's stamped: bike rack made by Dero! Eventually riders may discover the utility of this attractive piece of metal and start using it. Won't they? Actually, my wife once noticed a bike hooked to it. She thought it was attractive.

The City website is conducting a website SURVEY on this new "artform" to raise awareness. The Administration wants to install this "functional art" all over the city. It is hoped citizens will start tying their bikes to it. My hope is the bikes won't block the sidewalks when they are racked.

Dero Bike Rack, Co. has a whole line of off-the-wall bike rack ideas. Look for yourself. Browsing through the catalogue is like opening a box of Christmas ornaments. There are so many different colors and styles to choose from.

* For those following the election, Redmond Arts Commission Chair Tom Flynn , Vice-Chair John Stilin, and past Chair Roy Leban all endorse John Marchione for Mayor. Peter McDonald, Trails Chair endorses Marchione for Mayor. Mayor Ives endorses Jim Robinson.

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Mayor Ives calls it "street art".

EX ARTS COMMISSION CHAIR:

I don't consider this bike rack to be art either, but it's not completely hideous. The biggest problem is that nobody knows its a bike rack and it looks like it's supposed to be art instead. And, it's in a bad location for a bike rack. You're supposed to be able to put two bikes on each side. To lock/unlock a bike on the street side, you have to stand perilously close to the street, or in the street. - citizen volunteer leader
Monday October 15, 2007

FROM: CADRA
Redmond is the bicycle capital of the northwest are we not? You want to talk about something then let’s talk about the bike lanes on 85 after the 4 to 3 lane conversion. What a joke, that is a sad day for the Redmond to show they are bicycle capital of the northwest and can’t even make a bike lane complete.
Saturday November 3, 2007

10/11, Labor Turmoil in City Hall

Look at the picture of our vacant City Hall front desk and ask yourself: "Where are our priorities"?

RCHEA recently announced they are endorsing Jim Robinson for Mayor and Dayle "Hank" Margesson for Council. 10/19

Several weeks ago I was surprised to see Denine Garrison, President of Redmond City Hall Employee Association (RCHEA), give an "Items from the Audience" talk to Mayor Ives about Rosemarie's "lack of respect" for city employees. Two weeks later I was shocked when Ms. Garrison made similar requests but this time with 100 city hall employees standing behind her. Mayor Ives waved them out of the chamber.

I had no idea that labor relations within city hall were so bad. How will this unrest affect worker productivity? Labor negotiations have been underway for over a year; employees have to be stressed, right? Mayor Ives should think hard about the hidden costs of lost worker productivity when she meets with the bargaining board next week.

This serious labor strife comes at a time when Mayor Ives is trying to embolden her legacy and leave City Hall on a positive note. Certainly, neither Marchione or Robinson wish to inherit city staff malcontents from the Mayor Ive's administration.

Just who are these 200 troubled city hall workers ? They are: code enforcement officers, hard-working planning staff, financial analysts (Jim Robinson could relate), public works engineers, teen center staff, recreation coordinators, webmaster, administrative assistants, and on...these are the professionals who make our city run.

A city hall worker shared the following grief:

1. city hall RCHEA workers endured a *pay cut at the start of the year...
2. medical premiums increased.
3. the administration promises a cost of living increase but use it as a bargaining chip. Management and outside employees get a COLA every January 1. Not RCHEA workers.
4. the higher premiums resulted in a build up of the medical reserves $1.3 million higher than State expectations.

If I understood my city confidant correctly then I feel their grief. Though, I'm not certain how much their pay was reduced, if at all. An employee comment posted at the bottom adds insight to this conundrum.

In my 20 years working as a medical sales professional for various Fortune 500 corporations, I never once received a COLA. We were lucky to get a 3-6% annual merit increase and if sales were good -- a commission or bonus. I was never a good negotiator at infrequent salary reviews. My salary rarely exceeded industry standards. At times, I wished someone would bargain for me. Our business dress was befitting of a "professional salesperson" though no sharper than the city's "administrative assistants". Of course, our co-pays and premiums increased every year. A few times I changed jobs hoping to improve my standard of living.

We hope RCHEA and the Administration will find resolution at their October 15 meeting. It's unfortunate Holly Plackett isn't with us to help work things out.

One keeps going back to the huge material costs & overhead associated with our $70 million City Hall and we ask, "where were our priorities?" Councilmembers Cole, Vache, Myers, McCormmick, and Marchione have plans to impliment "Priorities in Budgeting." Isn't it time?

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*COMMENT BY A CITY HALL WORKER, 10/12:

"To clarify the issue of the pay cut: In Denine's talk, I think she references a pay cut, but it is in terms that net pay is reduced when medical premiums are increased, not a reduction in gross. COLAs are common in municipal government, but uncommon in the private world. Public employees don't have the benefit of bonuses or the ability to negotiate a raise, since staff position salaries are [rigidly] set by classification. COLA generally amounts to a 1-3% pay increase. The City does have a merit pay increase, but the merit increase is intended to be paid only to employees who far exceed expectations. Without a COLA, wages are stagnant, medical premiums rise, resulting in a net decrease in paycheck, an effective pay cut -- not even accounting for the loss of buying power due to inflation."

- city employee

COMMENT FROM "ROGER", 10/13

"...And, oh yeah, I forgot.... It took a lot of courage for the city staff to show up at the council meetings and confront the mayor. If she was running for re-election, it probably wouldn't have happened. I know city staff who are basically terrified of her.

Rosemarie Ives wasn't a bad mayor sixteen years ago. But something happened. Redmond became her city, not our city. It's time for the citizens to take it back. It's time for a mayor who is going to lead the city, not rule it. I don't know if John Marchione is perfect, but I'll take him over Jim Robinson any day. "

Lake Sammamish neighbors storm City Hall about "view corridors".

In the last two weeks over 40 citizens living along the west bank of Lake Sammamish have approached the Planning Commission to be heard about the proposed Shoreline Master Plan update and View Point Neighborhood plan. THEY ARE NOT HAPPY!

"View corridors" 30% of lot-width are proposed to allow the passing public views to the lake. It limits the height of new construction and would necessitate falling older trees. Mostly, the residents complained about poor public notice. They felt the Administration was trying to push this through to limit citizen input. What do you think?

Many West Lake Sammamish residents argued eloquently for their 5th Amendment rights protecting private property owners from "taking" their land without just compensation. The Shoreline Master Plan HERE requires review by a state regulatory agency, the Department of Ecology.

The story is still unfolding. Ongoing developments can be found on the commission's & candidate video archive HERE and on RCTV-21 at Wednesday on 7pm commission meetings. Mail your comments to planningcommission@redmond.gov

Some of this issue is about is BUFFERS. We create buffers to protect our steams, wetlands, lakes, flood zones, and hazardous slopes. The Shoreline Act and city administration want to mitigate the buffers from the regional traffic on W. LK. Sammamish Parkway. Residents of the West Lake Sammamish Association (WLSA) say they need the buffers to protect the slopes from erosion, protect the lake wate r quality, buffer from traffic noise, and bicycle safety...and most of all, protect their property rights.

This is an interesting twist. Lake residents are the custodians of the lake. They care for it. They live in a natural habitat that's protected by buffers now threatened by government regulation.

According to a citizen, it is RUMORED that the view corridor must be granted to the City of Redmond as an easement and there is no plan for compensation to the property owner. Vegetation would have to be cleared and the view maintained by the property owner. Most lots in this segment of shoreline are valued in excess of $1m each, taking 30% of that property and converting it to public use with the property owner responsible for maintenance is a huge imposition on private property rights.

Sidebar: If a Redmond resident had to vote for Mayor just on this one issue would he/she choose Marchione or Robinson? Robinson lives in the View Point neighborhood but he has voted down buffers in the past. At the Critical Area Ordinance Public Hearing of 5/17/2005, Jim Robinson motioned to amend the Critical Area ordinance "to retain the existing [small] buffers". The motion died for a lack of a second. Trees help to buffer street noise and anchor slopes from erosion and filter run-off along the Lake Sammamish shoreline.

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FROM: KIM ALLEN:

Bob - Just a reminder of what happened at the meeting you mention above. "Robert S. Yoder, 10019 169 Avenue NE, asked the Council to designate riparian habitat as a Habitat of Local Importance, since Redmond is a green city, with lakes, rivers and streams with fish and wildlife. He said the habitat protects against erosion and protects water quality.Councilmember Robinson suggested that the Council consider including the term “Riparian Habitat of Local Importance” in the Definitions section of the Critical Areas Ordinance."Minutes of 5/17/05 Council meeting, pp.198-200.As to the final vote on the Shoreline Plan, including the buffers, here was the final vote:"Ordinance No. 2259, adopting Findings of Fact, amending the Natural Environment Element of the Redmond Comprehensive Plan in order to update the city’s goals and policies relating to critical areas, adding and amending various definitions in Chapter 20A.20 of the Redmond Community Development Guide relating to critical areas, amending Chapter 20D.140 of the Redmond Community Development Guide in order to update the city’s critical areas regulations and incorporate the Best Available Science, providing for severability and establishing an effective date, was presented and read.Upon a poll of the Council, Cole, Marchione, McCormick, Paine, Resha, Robinson, and Vache voted aye. Motion carried unanimously (7 – 0)."5/17/05 Council meeting minutes p.200
Sunday October 14, 2007

FROM BOB YODER

10/14Hi Kim - In friendly response to your above comments. 1) Robinson suggesting Riparian HOLI be relegated in the CAO solely as definition, is almost an insult, though it was one crumb more than the rest. A definition is far from a symbolic gesture. Nancy McCormmick's suggestion during the same public hearing that the Planning Commission vet the issuance of a proclaimation that Riparian be our Habitat of Local Importance. Riparian is truly proving to be one of our cities most valuable habitats for monitoring our water quality. It's just very unfortunate that Mr. Robinson was the only counclmember motioning to reduce riparian zones from the CAO plan. Yes, of course all candidates voted FOR the new Critical Area Ordinance. Wouldn't it be nice if council voting records were duly recorded for easy access by the public...tabulated on a spreadsheet. Unfortunately, the Administration hasn't provided this critical assessment service. Finally, Kim, I want to thank you again for the tremendous support you gave me during my presentations for Riparian HOLI. Unfortunately, the administration wrote a C.3 report to council killing this wonderful idea which had potential to attract many citizens and students into the process of sustaining our natural resources and environment. Regards,Bob

10/9, Robinson campaign platform

My priorities for the next four years are as follows:

Community: My theme is Coming Home to Redmond. Redmond must continue doing its part in providing a safe and livable community for all its citizens.

Open Government: I am a strong advocate of open government and accountability. Our decisions need to be made in the open and subject to full public scrutiny.

Mutual Responsibility: Businesses and the residential communities are dependent upon each other for their sustainability and quality of life.

Hartman Park Aquatic Center: Teaching both kids and adults to swim is one of my personal top priorities. The pool at Hartman Park needs basic repair and refurbishment and I will actively work towards a public/private partnership to get that done.

Environment: The nation’s cities are leading the charge in combating the climate crisis. Redmond must do its part to reduce its dependence upon the automobile and foreign oil.

New Beginnings: Redmond has much to be proud of, and I will continue to build upon the solid base of quality city services.

--- from front page of Jim's website, 10/09

10/7, Musings on Marchione and Robinson

At my daughter's soccer game yesterday a parent - whom I respect - abruptly asked me who I was voting for and why. Marchione or Robinson?

My impulse response was "Marchione - because he can get the job done....Marchione has the assets to manage the city staff of 700 rather than be managed by staff. Under either candidate, we will have lots of growth in Redmond.

The parent then asked if I was basing my vote on the negative comments circulating around Mayor Ives (Ives endorses Jim). I said " NO! but I am influenced from my phone talks and a few encounters with her over recent years." Every time Mayor Ives called me by phone and sometimes by email, she had something derogatory to say about two senior council members. It was really disheartening. I asked my parent-friend if he had ever talked to Mayor Ives? He nodded NO. Rosemarie can be very charming on first impresson.

Another parent barked support for Marchione from the bleachers.

Soon after, all the parents and players began jumping up and down and yelling!...Lexie just scored!...but we missed it!! End of discussion!

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COMMENT FROM "Roger", 10/13

For some of us, Mayor Ives endorsement of Jim is a reason to vote against him. A typical interaction with Mayor Ives involves her explaining why she is right and everyone else is wrong. She is right and the council is wrong. She is right and John Marchione is wrong. She is right and all the citizens who voted for or against something are wrong. It must be so hard to be right all the time!

And, oh yeah, I forgot. Mayor Ives is right and the city staff is all wrong. It took a lot of courage for the city staff to show up at the council meetings and confront the mayor. If she was running for re-election, it probably wouldn't have happened. I know city staff who are basically terrified of her.

Rosemarie Ives wasn't a bad mayor sixteen years ago. But something happened. Redmond became her city, not our city. It's time for the citizens to take it back. It's time for a mayor who is going to lead the city, not rule it. I don't know if John Marchione is perfect, but I'll take him over Jim Robinson any day.

John Marchione Platform

John Marchione:

Experience to Get Things Done

Vision to Lead Redmond Forward

Experience that Produced Results

Ten years executive management experience as the CFO at Meydenbauer Center with over 160 employees

10 years city government leadership

Built Redmond City Council consensus to balance the budget

Added eight firefighters while maintaining a balanced budget

Obtained a new source of water to serve Redmond

Founding treasurer of the Lake Washington Schools Foundation

Integrity to Serve the Whole Community

Consult with diverse groups and listen to dissenting opinions before making decisions.

Work with the community to create consensus before plans are put into action.

Collaborate with neighboring communities to find regional solutions to issues like transportation, growth and the environment.

Vision to Enhance our Quality of Life

Concentrate growth in urban areas to protect single family neighborhoods and create a vibrant downtown.

Create a park to connect Town Center with downtown Redmond.

Enhance community festivals like Derby Days and Redmond Lights to ensure their continuing success.

Restore Redmond Way and Cleveland Street to two way travel, and complete the bike and trail network.

"John has proven experience to work with leaders outside Redmond to solve problems affecting people inside Redmond. Issues like transportation, land use, and the environment require collaboration and John will bring that skill to Redmond." Larry Springer State Representative "John has the ability to bring people together to get things done. That's what leaders do. He will be a great mayor." Grant Degginger "John's real world experience leading people and managing large budgets means he can hit the ground running." Richard Cole We like Marchione's sharper view of budgeting - and the council majority's commitment to a priorities-of-government approach that gives a responsible nod to the proper role of government in a city with escalating home values and taxes." Seattle Times 8/6/07

The Urgency of protecting our fragile water supply

The Groundwater Monitoring Improvement Agreement (PDF) was quietly and quickly -- almost surreptitiously-- approved during the "Consent Agenda" of Council's 10/2 meeting. Council never openly discussed the agreement nor were study sessions held on this urgent matter. About a month ago Council listened to a powerpoint Wellhead Protection Program Update from our city geologist about the "state of our *wellheads". When he showed how two drops of a contaminate could pollute ALL the water in Redmond pool he had my attention. So far, the city has removed contaminated soil equivalent to three City Halls.

This $331,000 ground water monitoring enhancement agreement was is so important and urgent that time constraints were given by staff's. Staff advised that passage was needed right away to complete 90% of the project by March 2008.

The project involves hiring GeoEngineers consultants to drill a network of 26 monitoring wells in our critical, shallow aquifer recharge area to:

• track the movement of groundwater
• track contaminant plumes
• monitor clean-up efforts
• evaluate the effectiveness of the hazardous materials management processes
• enable the City to make better policy decision regarding pollution prevention and groundwater protection.

The mission of this project is a wake-up call! Our underground drinking water supply is extremely fragile and vulnerable to ongoing contamination. In my final Redmond Reporter Citizen Watch column I brought attention to the vulnerability of our well water and the importance of the Cascade Water Alliance and conservation. Fortunately, Councilman John Marchione sits of the Cascade Water Alliance Board so the City has regional voice in planning our water supply for future generations. While interviewing Councilman Jim Robinson for Mayor, Jim told me unequivocally, nothing was wrong with our aquifer. I asked him again. Yes, no problem. ....hmmm....does citizen awareness and openness fit in someplace here?

My Citizen Watch water supply article and other columns I wrote for the community were well received, but the Administration didn't like my shedding light into their corners of government. So, the Administration's community- initiative-public-relations manager issued Advisory action to remove my column. (Since then Redmond Reporter "Letters to the Editor" have been reduced to a trickle -- and this, during a Mayoral election!

NOTE, an aquifer atrocity: A couple of years ago, I and a neighbor, Richard Morris, discovered septic and grease contaminants on Evans Creek bank in SE industrial Redmond. A year later we blew the whistle on a business that required 11 *regulatory agencies to "swoop down" and enforce emergency hazardous waste controls. It was ugly.

The Administration's PR staff (of 8) insisted that all groundwater monitoring controls were in place prior to our discovery of this natural resource atrocity. No doubt our "citizen watch" waved enough red flags to move the City forward in their July 17 update of our Wellhead Protection Program.

After the July 17 Council meeting, Mayor Ives told me my Reporter water supply column was "very good". She had only one concern and that was my urging citizens to ask city officials for a water conservation program. It was my opinion we needed a bonafide program. So far, all I've found in our water conservation program are: free Cascade Water shower heads, RCTV reader board plugs, and FOCUS ad. After my column, the city placed an ad and write-up in FOCUS , ramped up RCTV plugs and the Reporter posted several PSA's. Staff now tells me a new, quantitative water conservation program will be reviewed by Council soon. You'll hear about it here.

** Five shallow wells located east of the Sammamish River supply Redmond with 3.5 to 5 million gallons of water/day or about 40% of Redmond's drinking water. According to the City report of 10/2/07 C.3 "these five wells...are highly susceptible to contamination..."

* regulatory agencies at SE Redmond hazardous waste site were: - EPA, DNR county/city, County Health Dept.,Puget Sound Clean Air, Fire Marshal, Code Enforcement, Wellhead Protection Officer, Department of Ecology.

10/2, Redmond government commits to bicycles

Under the inspiration and guidance of the Cascade Bicycle Club, http://www.cascade.org/Home/ city council unanimously passed legislation called "Complete Streets" . The law requires a city commitment to pedestrian and bicycle accommodations in all major infrastructure projects.

The big question is: will Redmond's "Complete Streets" ordinance help to advance our neighborhoods and city towards implementing controversial projects like the proposed rechannelization of 166th Avenue? This plan would require wider sidewalks and bike lanes.
The Cascade Bicycle Club, City of Seattle, City of Kirkland, and now Redmond consider roads a "public asset" -- for all users. Complete Streets will reduce congestion & pollution and improve public health. The Cascade Bicycle Club recently endorsed Hank Margeson - the only Redmond Council candidate to be so honored. Congratulations to Hank on his endorsement! The Cascade Bicyle Club gave their Mayoral endorsement to Jim Robisnon. It may have been the Derby Day bike his was riding that swung them over!
..........................................................................................................................COMMENTS:
JOHN MARCHIONE:

KIM ALLEN:
Hey Bob! You forgot to mention that Cascade Bicycle Club has also endorsed Jim Robinson for Mayor of Redmond. They join the Sierra Club, the Washington Conservation Voters and the Redmond Police Association in endorsing Mr. Robinson.Kim Allen
Tuesday October 2, 2007 -
Hi Bob - It is true Jim has received these endorsements. The Bicycle Club, Sierra CLub and the Conservation Voters were gained by Rosemarie Ives calling in chips. I asked all union to not endorse in the Mayor's race because it appears unethical when negotiating contracts. How is a Mayor going to negotiate in good faith with a union that endorsed (or didn't endorse) them. It is too bad the police made that decision. John Marchione
Wednesday October 3, 2007 -

KIM ALLEN:
Bob, Let's set the record straight. Actually, John Marchione was considered in the endorsement process to try to obtain the environmental endorsements for himself. He was not selected. With respect to the various city employee groups, it's not clear where in the process he made such a request to withdraw from consideration. Now that they have selected someone else, there is some rationalizing going on. It's a shame to cast aspersions on these fine organizations by blaming some supposed intervention from our outgoing mayor. That's no way to build consensus.Kim Allen
Wednesday October 3, 2007
The Cascade Bicycle Club offers a long list of Bike & Transit resources and links. I've been a member on and off, for years. It's a great organization, especially to help beginners get started.

10/30, The New Arts Commission

I listened to the Arts Commissioners meet on 9/13 at City Hall chambers. The newly forming commission led by Chair, *Tom Flynn passed their Strategic Plan. Three new commissioners were recently sworn in.

One of the most positive actions the commission and city planners (Mary & Debbie) have taken was to invite the public to participate in the selection of two outdoor art projects. Citizens pay for the art the city buys to dress up their public buildings and we should have a say as to what gets approved. I hope the city asks for more public review on all of their art projects -- especially outdoor art. With public review, we should have no excuses for the art selected. THANKS to the commission, again, for bringing your art nominations to the public for review! Keep it up!

The Public Safety Building was one of two buildings awarded art reviewed by the public. The colorful artwork is ceramic tile printed and painted with historical photos of Redmond's past policemen. The Commission is collaborating with the Redmond Historical Society to gather archived photos. Robert Delgoto is the artist. No price tag was announced. It should. The commission is awarded 1% of the total cost of the the Public Safety Building remodel towards the cost of the art.

The other publicly-reviewed art was by M. Rosenberg and will be placed at Meadow Park. It makes bird whistles when stepping on an air bladder pump. Approval is pending until this "new art" is warranteed to last 20 years and without construction flaws. The commission appears to have learned from the unpopular City Hall "Silver Thaw" outdoor art. Again, no price tag is given for this outdoor art piece, but it's funded out of the Capital Improvement Plan - 1%.

The above photo is "Scooter". He's waving "goodbye". It was one of my favorite 2006 outdoor pieces, next to "Pie in the Sky". Sadly, it was announced, "Scooter" was stolen! The artist, Wattenmaker, generously donated Scooter to the city. It's market value was $6,900. (Thanks to Roy Leban, past Arts Chair for the correction). If anyone sees "Scooter" please write the commissioners at RAC@redmond.gov or call City Hall.

Did you know that 1.5% per capita [per art website] is taken from the general fund each year to fund art in Redmond. 1% of the cost of city capital building projects also funds art via the Capital reserves. If you don't feel you're getting your money's worth, I suggest you go to the Arts Commission meetings or write them. They want to hear your ideas, too.

Reports varied from 80 - 125 attendees to one Redmond's "Arts in the Parks" summer festival. Rain held down the turn-out. Some commissioners wanted to find ways to raise attendance . Attendance looked pretty good to me....

Arts in the Parks, Attendance

Geoffrey Castle: 250

Show Brazil: 75 (rain site)

Redmond Arts Jam: 75

Green Stage: 275

Wooden O Theater:425

Billet Deux: 130

Teen Night: 53 (rain site)

Correo Aereo 125

Thanks to Planner Mary for the attendance stats. What does it cost to put these programs on? What is the cost per attendee? Is the program's intent as much to "support the arts" as it is to provide entertainment?

Mark your calendar: Saturday, October 6, 10AM, at RTC - Starbucks meet up with the mayor and commissioners to tour the 2007 outdoor art collection -- by bus!! RSVP to RAC@redmond.gov . Visit www.redmond.gov/arts for details.

Don't forget to keep your eyes out for Scooter...

* If you are following the election, Chair Tom Flynn, Vice-Chair John Stilin, and past Chair Roy Leban endorse John Marchione for Mayor.