Showing posts with label city services. Show all posts
Showing posts with label city services. Show all posts

Thursday, May 27, 2021

The City's "Stay Safe Re-opening Plan"

 

Mayor Angela Birney at a ribbon cutting ceremony

A five stage strategy for re-opening city facilities, services, and programs.

The city plans to open in person city hall for meetings by July 6th 2021.

The C.O.O. Malisa Files,  Human Resource Director, and the Fire Chief presented Redmond's "Stay Safe Re-opening Plan" at Council's May 27th Study Session.  It was well received, however councilmember David Carson noted he has a hard time speaking through a mask and requested this restriction be removed. Ms. Files said mask removals were a possibility.    

Reported by Bob Yoder, 5/27/2021

Monday, October 29, 2018

The city and residents partner with PSE to reduce CO-2 emissions

Image result for green power PSE imagesResidents can enroll in PSE's Green Power program and with an additional $10 payment on their electrical bill can reduce 12,420 pounds of CO-2 emissions annually to 231 pounds per year.  
Redmond, WA – The City of Redmond is partnering with Puget Sound Energy to purchase 100 percent of its electricity for government operations from dedicated, local, renewable energy resources. Green Direct, PSE’s innovative renewable energy product for governments and commercial entities, consists of a combination of wind and solar.
Redmond is joining Green Direct in its second phase. Phase one included a new wind project in Western Washington and was fully subscribed in 2017. Phase two will include a new solar project in south-central Washington, which is expected to be completed in 2021.
By subscribing to Green Direct, the City of Redmond is taking an essential step in reducing its carbon footprint and meeting the goals of its Climate Action Plan. The City of Redmond’s Comprehensive Plan and Climate Action Plan make clear that the City of Redmond is committed to addressing climate change locally, regionally and nationally by acting to lessen greenhouse gas emissions.

Monday, November 14, 2011

City of Redmond passes 2010 Annual State Accountability Audit with flying colors.

2010 State Audit of City of Redmond, WA. - Report on Accountability

FROM THE WASHINGTON STATE AUDITOR'S OFFICE:  "We appreciate the opportunity to work in cooperation with your City to promote accountability, integrity and openness in government. The State Auditor’s Office takes seriously our role to advocate for government accountability and transparency and to promote positive change."

Results: "In the areas we examined, the City’s internal controls were adequate to safeguard public assets. The City also complied with state laws and regulations and its own policies and procedures in the areas we examined."  

Audit History: "We audit the City annually. The past six audits of the City reported two findings. The 2006 audit reported a weakness in internal controls over financial reporting. The 2007 audit reported a weakness involving compliance with state bid laws. Both issues [occured the Mayor Rosemarie Ives Administration and] have been resolved."  Read More >>

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

LETTERS: Pro & Con Comments on Redlight Cameras

LETTER (Pro): I went from being a person against the red light cameras to being fully supportive of them. I was afraid I'd be rear ended several times as I slammed on brakes to avoid getting tickets (yes, I admit to cutting it close on occasion). But after attending the public meeting on the red light cameras, and seeing how people were speeding up and ENTERING the intersection after the light was red, well, I would give them a ticket too. Slowing down just a bit so that you can approach the light at a safe enough speed to avoid being rear ended and getting a ticket is easy. It's not too much to ask.
-- Comment By Anonymous1 on OPINION: "Redmond Initiative 1" moves closer ... on 8/30/11
LETTER (Con):  I think cameras are a great idea. We should have them everywhere, not just red lights. Like on the highway, so we can ticket all you slow drivers in the passing lanes. And in our houses (and bedrooms), so we can make sure there’s no wrongdoing going on there. Let’s not forget every church, synagogue and mosque. Can you imagine the juicy sedition we could uncover? Last, I’d like to put a webcam in almost every room at Redmond city hall, so we can see what really drives the behavior, decisions, and results that have so many of us puzzled. It seems we have the right and obligation to constantly monitor each other to ensure we protect society from our collective bad behavior. We’ll, count me all in. If you’re not doing anything wrong, you won’t object, right?
  --Comment By Anonymous2 on OPINION: "Redmond Initiative 1" moves closer... on 8/30/11
The Council Public Safety Committee meets monthly on the 4th Tuesday of the month (4 PM at City Hall).  Councilmembers David Carson (candidate for Nov. election), Hank Myers (uncontested candidate) and John Stilin are committee members.  The meetings are open to the public; the Redlight camera program and videos are often reviewed.  
The April - June public safety committee report on Redlight cameras is here.  Redmond Way/148th Ave NE intersection has the most citations/month.   B.Y.

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

City Takes Time to Educate Citizenry on The Good And Bad Of Red-Light Safety Cameras

UPDATED:  Just before Christmas, Commander Shari Shovlin of the Redmond Police announced a new start date for their Safety (Red Light) Cameras.   The Red-Light camera activation date is now changed from New Year's Day to February 1.  

THE RED-LIGHT PROCESS:  For the month of February, citizens are sent a warning of their infractions. Citations will be issued starting March 1 and can be challenged in court.  However, the city may give you an opportunity to review your infraction on their new website to help save you and the courts some time.

Some good news:  Red-Light violations will be cited "non-moving" so your driver's insurance company won't ding you; and the $124 fine is less than a "moving" violation.  Driving habits change and fewer accidents have been reported over time. 

Some bad news:  Red-Light cameras are controversial in some cities, because they've been reported as a Cash Cow.  KING-TV featured a report on Lynnwood, WA with claims Lynnwood generated 10% of it's total budget from red-light fines.  The reporter interviewed citizens who claimed revenues create a revenue habit for installing ever more red-lights   Also, watch out for rear-end bumps as drivers get used the Pilot.

I alerted City Council to an education, yet alarming 12/5  KING-TV video in early December.  Councillor Hank Myers, Chair of the Council Safety Committee responded with a Letter to RNB a few days after. The 12/5 KING-TV video has since been removed, though text remains. 

Monday, December 6, 2010

ALERT UPDATE: The New City Website Will Launch On December 8 With Some Twists

Attention Users of City of Redmond Website    After emailing Ms. Gronlund, City Communications Manager last night, I learned the city will launch their new site this Wednesday morning, 12/8.  Be advised, old redmond.gov Bookmarks will be lost .   Though Marta addressed Redmond Neighborhood Blog specifically, it appears Media will lose links to the new city website.  No city press release on the launch date was issued.
From: Marta Gronlund mgronlund@redmond.gov
Date: Sun, Dec 5, 2010 at 10:59 PM
Subject: RE: Focus website index page feedback
Bob:
Yes the (Winter Lights)  festival was wonderful.
Yes, the new site, while still redmond.gov to the outside world is completely different on the back end (database driven). So all links will be different - no old bookmarks will work and content is now organized functionally rather than by department. So for those who use it frequently, it will be a little frustrating for awhile.
If you have links to content on your blog now, please send them to me and I will get you the new links to the same content as soon as I have them. We launch the new site Wed. AM. (12/8)
Thanks, Marta Gronlund
City Communications Program Manager
Sent from my Windows Mobile phone   
When, and if, I receive the new website links from City Communications, I'll update RNB links. 
It's my understanding the new city website link is redmond.gov.

Redmond Neighborhood Blog (RNB) reports on Open Government and links extensively to the city website to provide proof sources for my research; and important city information RNB provides could be compromised. 

RNB is the oldest, ongoing hyper-local media site in Redmond.  A plethora of city website links going back over four years are momentarily disabled.  However, the majority of RNB readers rarely click on  links, so little will be truly lost to your reading enjoyment!  And, Redmond's repairing their end. 

OPINION and Report By Bob Yoder.

Monday, September 13, 2010

City of Redmond removes beaver dam to protect spawning fish.

A beaver dam underneath the "Avondale Road -Powerline Bear Creek bridge" was removed by the city a few weeks ago, with permitted approval from Fisheries and Wildlife.  The County has jurisdiction over the creek, but the bridge is owned by the City.  Teresa Kluver, city parks employee says:
Due to the proximity of the dam structure to the bridge and the anticipated movement of Salmon it was decided early removal would be beneficial. We are currently monitoring the location for renewed beaver activity.
Lindsey Walimaki of PSE said salmon can usually swim through beaver dams.  Could it be that some of the vegetative-woody debris floating from the PSE power line project contributed "building materials" for the beavers?   The salmon are expected under the bridge anytime now.  In this picture, the dam is "under construction" by beavers.  The entire creek was eventually damed up by some very busy beavers.

Special thanks to a Water Tender for the tip.

Reported by Bob Yoder
Photo by Yoder

Thursday, March 11, 2010

OPINION: Customer Service is inadequate at City Hall.

UPDATED, 3/14

http://redmondcity.blogspot.com/2009/07/what-does-derby-days-and-city-hall.html      

OPINION:  I was one of the few non-staff citizens, who attended the first "Budget By Priorities" community meeting on March 1.   At the meeting, Mayor Marchione announced an emphasis on improving customer service; it was directed mostly to the staff-side of the chamber.  Hopefully, customer service is one of his priorities again this year. 

Monday, January 18, 2010

From blogging to drumming - teens will find classes at Redmond Teen Center


CITY OF REDMOND TEEN CLASSES AT THE OLD FIREHOUSE TEEN CENTER. There are some great classes being offered this winter. All classes will be held at the Old Firehouse Teen Center at 16510 NE 79th Street. For more information or to sign up for any of these classes, please call 425-556-2300, e-mail Chris Cullen, or download the Old Firehouse schedule.  (non-residents may apply).  For contacts and registration details go here. 

· Drumming 102: For Drummers with some experience and want to advance their skills. The class will review and strengthen standard rudiments. Will include Latin and Cuban rhythms as well as rock time signatures and introduction to syncopation.Ages 13-19
Tuesdays
Jan 19-Mar 9
6-7pm
R $28 / NR $31.

· Digital Audio Mixing 101: earn the basics on mixing your own tracks for diverse applications including electronic, hip-hop and gaming audio. Using the most accessible software Music Studio by Acid you will cover programming patterns, creating form and structure, editing for contrast and variation as well as an introduction to mixing standards in balance, EQ and panning. You will also cover an improvisational approach to building rhythm, bass, harmony, melody tracks and loops. Ages 13-19
Tuesdays
Feb 9-23
6 -7:30pm
R $35 / NR $42.

 · DJ'ing 101: In this class you will learn the basics and get hands on training about DJ'ing on turntables, CD players and new technology like Final Scratch and Ableton Live. Also get a chance to make your own beats. This class will provide a unique opportunity to learn some of the history and culture behind DJ'ing. Whether you are an acclaimed DJ or new to electronic music we will touch on everything you need to known to pursue a brilliant career in DJ'ing and Producing. Ages 13-19
Tuesdays
Feb 2-23
6-7:30pm
R $25 / NR $30.

· Teen Toastmasters:  It's certainly no secret that public speaking is a source of fear and stress for many. In this workshop we will discuss the essentials to creating an effective presentation, practice delivery techniques, and find ways to handle the jitters of standing in front of an audience, and being able to engage in the information you are trying to convey. Public speaking is an important form of communication, a key in getting jobs, and succeeding in academics. It certainly doesn't have to be scary and this workshop will help you make it fun. Ages 14-19
Mondays
Feb 8-Mar 8
6-7pm
R $15 / NR $18

· Get Started with Blogging: Learn to blog and impress the world with your brilliant thoughts, innovative ideas, and random musings! In this class, you'll learn how to setup and get started with blogging with your very own URL. We'll personalize your site with an awesome layout and cool features, learn how to promote your blog, and track your progress as the number of visitors to your website skyrockets! A collaboration of OFH and teen-run non-profit Student RND. Ages 13-19
Mondays
Feb 1-22 (no class Feb 15th)
6-8pm
R $25 / NR $30.

· VJ 101: Mixing Live Video: Get in on this amazing new performance technology. Northwest top Professional VJs (Video Jockeys) teach the art of manipulating video imagery on-the-spot to music like a DJ would mix music, just add the video. No video or DJ experience necessary for this class. Age: 13-19
Mon & Tue
Mar 22 & 23
6-8:30pm
R $85R / NR $99
 
From the desk of  Mary Bourguignon, Editor of  "Redmond Mustangs"

Saturday, July 11, 2009

The Think Tank at Derby Days

While watching the Derby Day Parade, I ran into a few neighbors who know the City inside and out. Our thoughts centered on the towering City Hall foyer and how intimidating it can be to visitors. We decided one of the biggest problems about City Hall is no foyer receptionist to help you find your way. Unfortunatley helpful way-finding signage isn't posted because the landlord has signage requirements. (yep, the city doesn't own their building yet). Thus, we sometimes notice people wandering listlessly around the foyer and halls looking for a "warm body". Can you imagine how first time visitors of Redmond's diverse cultures must feel?

THE THINK TANK: When using the Help Desk Phone, visitor calls often get routed to the wrong department or sometimes not at all. It's disruptive. Long waits at the help desk phone frustrate visitors as they must often listen to endless routing messages. If Public Works were to survey the various City departments on the value of a lobby receptionist many Department heads would probably request a receptionist and even discover efficiencies to pay for one. Why? Stronger service and "efficiency savings" are part the city's budgeting priorities. Also, the Mayor places high regard for customer service and should he uncover efficiencies he might take action. "

And the survey SAYS............" ?

posted in my FaceBook

Saturday, June 27, 2009

Updated: Downtown's Riverpark Apartments are open for business - rent prices & construction update

This "courtesy photo" of Riverpark Apartments was published in the local Redmond Reporter (6/25) with the Press Release. For "real time" photos & clips scroll down.

Redmond REDMOND, Wash. – June 24, 2009 – Legacy Residential, a West Coast leader in residential developments, today announced the formal opening of Legacy at Riverpark Apartments. A new gateway to downtown Redmond, Legacy at Riverpark Apartments includes 319 luxury apartment homes and 5,700 square feet of street-level retail in three five- to seven-story buildings.

Legacy at Riverpark Apartments is part of the expansive six-acre mixed-use Riverpark development, which also includes a 144-room Hotel Sierra, developed by LodgeWorks; a 106,000-square-foot office building anchored by Group Health; street level retail spaces; and secure, underground parking for 750 vehicles. With the 135-unit first phase now completed, Legacy is focusing on completing the second phase, which includes an additional 184 apartment homes. The second phase will open in September.

Legacy at Riverpark Apartments strikes a unique balance between the energy of an urban, mixed-use village and the serenity of a nearby stream surrounded by expansive open spaces and jogging trails. Riverpark is just a half mile from SR-520 and is a five-minute walk along the newly extended and improved Bear Creek Parkway from Redmond Town Center, a lifestyle center featuring a high-end theater, restaurants, and more than 100 shops and boutiques, including REI and Macy’s. Just two miles from Microsoft, five miles from Downtown Bellevue and 15 miles from downtown Seattle, Riverpark offers excellent commuting options.

--Media Contact: Nate Cole-Daum, Nyhus Communications LLC for Legacy Partners Residential, Inc., (206) 323-3733 or nate@nyhus.com

COMMENT:
I visited the apartments, took some pictures and talked to Nichole, Assistant Business Manager at Riverpark. The "Opening Day" 12-month Lease printed prices (dated 6/18/09) range from:

  • a low of **$572/month for a 1-BR Studio (10% of apartments are "affordable" )
  • to $2810/mo. for a 3 Bedroom Loft + Den, upper story w/view (presently unavailable)
  • Two Bedroom/2 Bath range is $933 - 1452/month.
  • Daily Special: 1 Month Free w/12 Month Lease. (apparently month-to-month is offered)
  • Free Underground Parking, $500 Deposit ($250 refundable), $40 application fee. $300 pet fee (80 pound limit). $300 pet deposit.
  • **Price ranges include the affordable housing by city requirement.

Some apartments are still under construction.



Legacy website of Riverpark: http://www.legacyatriverpark.com/

City description and video of the project: http://redmond.gov/community/02RiverPark.htm

some of my comments are opinions - the press release is abbreviated.

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

2008-2009 Salary and benefit costs continue to increase at City Hall.

This article was published on 1/7/2009.  

2010 - Salary and Benefits for Police and Fire average $122,395/worker
2010  -Salary and Benefits for remaining average $95,474/worker 
2010  -Salary and Benefits for all city 624 workers average $108,136/worker  

OPINION:  Last night the Council unanimously approved by consent and without discussion a 2009 Salary Ordinance  costing taxpayers $1,382,526 annually. 

During Council budget conversations it was reported salary and benefits represent about 80% of the General Operating fund. That's right. Thus, city salary and benefit increases have by far the greatest impact on our city taxes and levies over time. Capital improvement programs add to tax pressures.

In response to heavy union lobbying by City Hall employees during the Ives-Marchione-transition, the Marchione Administration negotiated increased salaries for professionals, technical and clerical staff ~3.5% annually or by $1.3M  in 2008. Thus, in two years time, salaries for the city's 600+ employees have risen ~ $2.6M. This adjustment doesn't count salary increases for the Mayor, Directors, Management, Supervisors, non union workers or **police. Overtime, various benefits, and merit increases are not included in the $2.6M increase.

Over 600 work for the Mayor and head count is modestly rising during this biennium. Below is a sample of salaries approved in the 2009 Salary Ordinance. The listed salaries are at the high end but don't include annual reviews, non-exempt overtime, benefits and merit increases.
  • Print Shop specialist, 2009 - $49,620
  • Administrative Assistant, 2009 - $51,540
  • Recreation Program Assistant, 2009 -$53,184
  • Deputy City Clerk, 2009 - $61,668
  • Associate Planner, 2009 - $72,720~
  • Building Inspector IV, 2009 - $80,244
  • Audio-Visual Ops. Mgr., 2009 - $80,000
  • Principal Planner, 2009 - $98,124
  • Senior Engineer, 2009 - $100,560
The Fire Bargaining Unit received a 6% incremental increase ($825,415) in base pay, not counting overtime and merit increases. Below is a sample salaries at the high end minus overtime and benefits:
  • Fire Support Administrative Assistant, 2009 - $51,540
  • Fire Fighter, 2009 - $79,404 after 3+ years.
  • Driver/Operator, 2009, - $83,328 after 2+ years.
  • Paramedic/Fire Fighter, 2009 - $91,320 after 3+ years.
  • Assistant Fire Marshall, 2009 - $98,724 after 1+ years.
Management and Supervisory positions are not subject to bargaining  As I recall from the 2008-10 survey, salaries and bonuses of Directors average over $145,000 with the Dir. of Finance paid the most.  In 2012, Mr. Mayor's taxable income increased to $133,000 (includes car + tuition allowance.)

The City Councilmember salary of $800/mo in 2008 was increased to $1,000/mo in 2012, plus a health care benefit.  Commissioners are appointed by the mayor, approved by council and not paid.

2010 BENEFITS:  
  • Vacation - first 1-2 years of service, 12 days. Significant accrual plan.
  • 12 paid holidays
  • Sick Leave - 12 days/year; accrue up to 120 days; 25% unused/year apply to vacation.
  • Longevity bonus - from $30 - $75/month.
  • Disability - 60% of salary for 6 months (probably short/long term applies)
  • Bereavement - 4 days leave
  • Overtime - Non-exempt professional - 1.5 times regular hourly rate after 40 hours. Sunday 2 times hourly rate. 7th day 2 times hourly rate. (I was exempt)
  • Professional Leave - Automatic 6 day credit for professional leave (training, etc.)
  • Stand-by duty - 20% increase in hourly rate; 25% increase if over a weekend.
  • Health, Vision, Dental insurance - A huge benefit. $150.29/month (employee, spouse,1 child). 20% premium cost sharing for dependents. (Self-employed, Blue Cross:Blue Sheild individual health insurance plans for a family of three now costs $998/month w/ 30% co-pay, $2500 deductible`).
  • Merit Increase - up to 2-4%/ year + 2% lump-sum bonus at Midpoint level.
  • Retirement package - under review
It's noteworthy the Mayor in this budget cycle asked and received over $500,000 in funding for a new "Human Resource Program"

Salary Ordinance, 2009. (including Fire Bargaining Unit)
**2008-2009 Police Salary Ordinance - the salary schedule is buried on the last page. 5% increase in '08 & 6.2% increase in '09 ; 11.2% salary increase in the last two years.

COMMENTS FROM CITY OFFICIALS OUTSIDE OF REDMOND:

Mr. Yoder: Thank you for your blog. As Mercer Island's Deputy Mayor, I appreciate your efforts to bring some sunshine and some transparency to the murky and generally hidden issue of municipal compensation. In my nine years on the MI Council, we also have always approved labor contacts on our consent calendar. 01/09/2009

Ernest L. "El" Jahncke President Washington Capital Management, Inc. 1301 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1500 Seattle, WA 98101 (206)382-0825
______________________________________________________________________
Dear Bob,
Thank you for writing me with your blog comments. I have been very interested in this topic myself -- I'll take a look, but at first glance, many same topics as we have here and all cities. We need many good minds thinking about how we can fix this politically and economically!
Thanks, Yoriko , 01/10/09

Yoriko Kishimoto
Palo Alto City Council
Valley Transportation Authority Board of Directors
Bay Area Air Quality Management District Board of DIrectors
650-323-5590
______________________________________________________________________________ ..

Unfortunately, most of my efforts to trim compensation increases have not been successful. So I don’t have the solution – except to say that you are doing the right thing by informing the public. (excerpt from Letter to the Editor)
- Pad Flinnigan, Councilman, City of Lakewood, WA. 1/15
_________________________________________________________________
cc: City Council and Mayor, 1/25/09

Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Mayor Marchione writes Letter to Residents about the Storm

Letter to Editor
Office of the Mayor – Communications Office
EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY

CONTACT: Marta Gronlund, Voice: 425-556-2427
SENT: December 30, 2008

Letter to Redmond Residents

I have heard from many of you over the past two weeks, voicing your anger about the road conditions during the prolonged snowstorm. I share your frustration and apologize for the difficulty in navigating around the city.

To make matters worse, garbage and recycling piles up and overflows its containers. My neighbors are upset with me as I explain that cul-de-sacs will be the very last streets plowed. My children voiced their displeasure that our Christmas celebration was postponed four days because family could not make it to our house on Education Hill.

What I can tell you is that City of Redmond employees have been working 24/7 since December 17th to plow and clean our streets. Is it enough? Obviously not. A major limiting factor to our service is that the City owns only three large plows/sanders and one smaller plow/sander for 100 miles of road. This level of equipment is generally sufficient for most years; however, a storm like this occurs about once every 25 years and the equipment level clearly fell short this time. You have my commitment to review the City's response for lessons learned and to implement changes to our snow removal plan quickly.

I have been in touch with Waste Management representatives and they report trucks are out in full force this week. Some of their trucks have extra staff on board to help with any extra trash or hard to service containers. Waste Management asks for your patience as their crews work through the very real logistical complications associated with the sheer volume of material they expect to find at the curb.

On all these issues, I asked staff for a complete debriefing of what happened, what changes need to be made and how we can prevent similar problems in the future. We will provide the City Council with a report at the January 6th City Council meeting. We certainly can’t control the weather, but we can learn and make changes to our response. As soon as I have more information, I will report back to you and the Council on what steps and changes we are taking. This information will also be available on www.redmond.gov.

Thank you for sharing your experiences. Hearing from you has been painful but provides useful information that will help the City better respond to future storm events.

Sincerely,

John Marchione
Mayor
City of Redmond