The City stalls on landscape maintenance at Camwest's "Perrigo Heights" development.

Updated 2/28/19:  Trees and shrubs were planted by Group Health for off-site mitigation from their development project.  Irrigation was installed.  Everything's grown up, it's all green and you can't  see the vault now!

Opinion:  The cement box photos show a "wet vault" (tagged with graffiti).  Vaults are designed to remove stormwater sediment and polluting chemicals.  This vault was built by Camwest Development, Inc. over two years ago as part of a 24-home "Perrigo Heights" urban forest housing project in Redmond. The vault was tagged with red graffiti in mid-January of this year.  This small photo was taken from the popular Ashford PED-BIKE Trail that connects 6 neighborhoods and two parks to three nearby schools.

VAULT SCREENING:  The city removed the graffiti (right photo) four weeks after it was reported to Mr. Fischer, a city development planner.  The deciduous saplings planted next to the vault by Camwest (see photo) will give no visual screening seven months of the year.   Furthermore, small deciduous trees create no physical barrier to graffiti vandals.   In response to citizen feedback, the city administration established a vague plan to install evergreen screening, as follows:

City Planner Steve Fischer said in a February email:

"I am working with other city staff to implement the planting of some evergreens between the trail and the vault. The response that I have received has all been positive so I am hopeful that that we can enhance the screening of the vault. This is still early on in the process so I do not have information about quantity or type of plant materials or when planting might take place. I am hopeful that I can begin to obtain answers to those questions in the coming weeks."  February 10, 2010. 

Graffiti art in "Edge Skate Park"

A few slides show a chipped "Free Wall" with about an inch of graffiti paint!  The wall has been painted over so many times that you can find layers of paint dating back 15 years.  The walls you see have been painted more than once in the last month.  

Graffiti art has been painted on the “Free Walls” of Redmond’s downtown Edge Skate Park from the day it was dedicated, over 15 years ago.  Anyone is free to paint graffiti on the walls.  These walls are special not only for their art, but for mitigating unwanted graffiti tags from migrating into the skate arena itself.

The skate board and BMX community and neighborhoods have great pride in Edge Park. Skaters say the creative graffiti art usually lasts on the Free Walls for 2-4 weeks before it has to be painted over again.  An unidentified community of passionate graffiti artists re-paint the walls.  According to Ken Wong of the Teen Center, the graffiti artists aren't managed by the City.

Redmond's one-of-a kind Edge Skate Park is located a stone's throw from the downtown Fire station and Metro Bus Park & Ride on 8420 161st Ave. NE.  The Free Walls facing the Park & Ride usually have the best graffiti art. Their tags are probably painted over more often owing to their visibility to commuters.  The paint thickness shows it.

Redmond Parks Operations Manager, Dave Tuchek, says the Park was conceptualized in the mid-1995's by Nick Lovell of the Redmond Police Department.  It was built during the Rosemarie Ives Administration. Dave says, periodically - less than 5-6 times/year - obscenities or graffiti are tagged in the concrete skating arena by outsiders.   Dave says, if the tags aren't removed within about 24 hours it gets worse and spreads.  He takes pictures of the tags for the police report.  Police and Fire have presence too; their refueling station is next door.  

By Bob Yoder
Seattle Times Communities Partner
Photos by Yoder (35 photos)

The Seattle Times graffiti story (4/26) is here 

UPDATED: Mike Town celebrates his NEA award at Redmond High.

Redmond High teacher Mike Town receiving award from Phillipe Cousteau

UPDATED:  Excitement abounded at Redmond High School this morning.  The Performing Arts Center overflowed with students and citizens as dignitaries from the state and around the country were on hand to recognize and award Mike Town for his NEA Green Prize in Public Education.

The NEA Foundation presented Mr.  Town a $25,000 award and national recognition for his Cool School Challenge curriculum.  In addition to the NEA award, it was announced Mike won a 1-year Fellowship to work in Washington D.C. under the National Science Foundation.  His absence will be noticed in the Pacific Northwest community next year.

Through Cool Schools Challenge and Wild Sky Wilderness efforts, Town has developed strong relationships with Congressman Jay Inslee and Governor Gregoire.   A Keynote speaker, Phillipe Cousteau commented that Mike has an ability to reach out to legislatures.  "In talking to Mike last night, he knew more about congressmen and staffers than I did", said Cousteau drawing a chuckle from the audience.  Phillipe lives in D.C. and frequents the Hill.   Phillipe is Correspondent for Green Planet and the grandson of Jacque Cousteau.

Town competed with 38 applicants for the award.  Town's Cool School Challenge curriculum has helped students, teachers, and school districts from over 150 schools nationwide reduce over 1.5 million pounds of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions.  Through infrastructure changes and the students' work, Redmond High School has saved over $30,000 per year in electricity and waste costs and reduced their carbon dioxide emissions by over 200,000 pounds.

In addition to the success of the Cool School Challenge project, Town has the highest enrollment of an AP Environmental Science class in the state, with approximately half of every of the Redmond High School graduating class taking his course.  Town thanked Principal Jane Todd and acknowledged ex-Mayor Rosemary Ives for her support.    

Video clips of Mike and from Governor Gregoire were played.  Mike has always lived in small towns outside of cities.  He said "the single biggest point source for green-house gas is local high schools.  And, ""the best way of mitigating environmental problems has and always will be education."   Governor Gregoire praised Town for his work to reduce the carbon footprint at Redmond fire houses and she plans to take Mike's program to schools statewide.   

Congressman Jay Inslee will join Mike Town and other panelists in Bellingham, Saturday, May 15th to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Western Washington's Huxley College of the Environment.  Town is a graduate.  According to Manca Valum, Director of Development, Huxley is "probably the oldest college in the country with the sole purpose of studying the environment."  It was founded in 1969.  Ms. Vahum was in the audience.

The teaching curriculum can be freely downloaded from the Cool School Challenge web site.  It helps student teams gather data about the carbon footprint of each class and, based on their findings, create an action plan to reduce their impact.

Reported by Bob Yoder

Pictures by Yoder

Is Kirkland the "sister city" to Redmond?

If you were to name a local "sister city" to Redmond, most would probably choose between Bellevue  and Kirkland.   I would like to know your choice.  I'll  explain why my pick is Kirkland.

The benchmark decision for me was Rosemarie Ive's last City Council meeting of December, 2007.  Kirkland Mayor James L. Lauinger was one of many giving tribute to Rosemarie.  Mayor Lauinger presented a stirring tribute and impressive honorary plaque to Mayor Ives.  This act of kindness triggered an emotional response from Rosemarie saying, she had oftened considered Kirkland  "Redmond's sister city".

I can barely scratch the surface guessing all the reasons why Rosemarie would coin Kirkland our local "sister city".  Perhaps, Rosemarie would comment to this post.  Allow me to list a few reasons, similarities, connections and "intersections' between our cities; and some differences.

 I've found many of the connections between Redmond and Kirkland  attributed to politicians.   For example: 

1) Doreen Marchione was a Redmond councilmember and Mayor of Redmond prior to Rosemarie Ives.  Doreen now lives in Kirkland and is running for a Kirkland Council seat.
2) Mary-Alyce Burleigh lived in Redmond for ~ 30 years before moving to Kirkland to become a respected, long-standing, influential Kirkland councilmember with terms as Mayor.
3) Warren Appleton, MD was a Redmond Councilmember during Rosemarie's term  and is now the Director of Emergency Preparedness and member of two Boards of Kirkland's Evergreen Healthcare.

A) Lake Washington High School provides an intersection for Kirkland and Redmond students.
B) A county annexation by Redmond is planned bordering Kirkland and Redmond on 132nd St. (I think)

Culture:  Little league Baseball and Softball park facilities are extensive and well maintained in both cities. Kirkland won the Little League World Series in 1982.  Redmond is the "Bicycle Capital of the NW" and has extensive trail systems.  Kirkland is a classy Lake Washington waterfront restaurant and boating community.  Both cities value art:  Kirkland boasts a variety of galleries; Redmond has an outdoor art collection of over 100 pieces.  Rob Butcher publishes the popular KirklandViews for profit blog.  I'm asking the community to fund the Redmond Neighborhood Blog as a nonprofit.  

Comparable *demographics:

• Residential population of Redmond is 49,427 : Kirkland is 47,325 
• Population density:  3,065 (R) : 4,365 (K)
• Median income:  $76,155 (R) : $69,711 (K)
• Median home value:  626,000 (R) : 675,000 (K)
• Median age:  37 (R) : 40 (K)
• Singles:  43% (R) : 50% (K)
• Families with kids:  22% (R) : 17% (K)
• LWSD ratio of pupils:students:  24:1 (R) : 19:1 (K)  $4350 expenditure/student for R/K.
• College BA degree:  36% (R) : 33% (K)
• Bellevue is twice the distance of Kirkland from Redmond.  Kirkland is 3.1 miles away.   

Employment differences are significant:  Redmond is "on the Edge" of Microsoft.   Google is "on the Edge" of Kirkland.  The largest employer in Redmond is Microsoft. (41,000 in Puget Sound).  Redmond population doubles during the work week.  Evergreen Healthcare  is Kirkland's largest employer with 3,229 employees.

Governments are dissimilar:   Redmond has a "strong mayor" who is an elected representative and the Administrator of city staff and operations.  Mayor John Marchione is the city CEO.   Kirkland has a "council form" where the Mayor is an elected councilmember but a business manager is hired to run the city and carry out Council policies.  Redmond has a super-sized City Hall.  In comparison, Kirkland's Hall is a donut hole. 

Do you have any opinions or points of fact you want express in a Letter?  Please comment here.  If you think Bellevue or Woodinville is a more appropriate sister city please say why, and I'll post your comments as a Letter.

* Yahoo Real Estate, Neighborhoods

Theno's Dairy

Hundreds and hundreds of kids and families have sat on this cow eating their ice cream.

Notice the incongruency of the two buildings.

Brian Lutz, the Redmond author of The Sledgehammer Version 2. blog recently posted an interesting story about Redmond's locally famous and historic Theno's Dairy. I asked Brian for additional information on the family business that is known for it's yummy ice cream and sherbet and fresh milk. I wasn't sure if the new huge Meta Church, Washington Cathedral owned the land or not.

Brian said "from what I've read, [the church] has pedged to allow Theno's to continue to operate for as long as the Bloor family wishes to do so."

In 2005, Washington Cathedral tried to get the site rezoned for commercial use with the possibility of putting in a strip mall shopping development that would have included a new Theno’s on the corner. An informative Seattle Times article on proposed land use can be found here.

I followed the land use Master Plan Application and Annexation proposals and vaguely remember the Planning Commission deciding against the 5 acre (or was it 10 acres?) development. Most decided a strip mall would be incompatible with the surrounding agricultural land. An influencial neighborhood north of Washington Cathedral held several meetings (I attended one) to organize against the church's plans. Their primary complaint was traffic and congestion at the 124th Street & RED-WOOD intersection. I remember the then Mayor Rosemary Ives suggesting that a small "Farmers Market" would be more appropriate. Environmentalists had concern about impacts to the health of a Class 2 stream.

If anyone has more current information about the status of "our" historic and cultural landmark please comment. Probably, the best source of information is from the children who woolf down the ice cream!

Customer reviews of Theno's Dairy (and their location.)

Brian Lutz is author of The Sledgehammer V 2.0

Photos of Washington Cathedral Grand Opening with Mayor John Marchione. (Photos are available for purchase online)

What's been the best kept secret in Redmond?

Edited, 1/20 August 5th is "National Night Out Against Crime" and 30 neighborhoods in Redmond will be participating this Tuesday. Most will celebrate with a Neighborhood Block Watch party.

So what's the deal about Redmond's big secret? The secret is 1650 AM radio! Redmond Community Radio 1650 AM is our "new" 24/7 emergency advisory radio service. Redmond's emergency radio band will be announced and celebrated in neighborhoods on "National Night Out."

1650 AM was first launched -but never took off - during the Ives Administration following the severe December 2006 windstorm (and earthquake of 2002). Power was out for an average of 4-5 days on Education Hill. Pat Vache', Vice President of Council, moderated a study session last night shedding light on 1650 AM. Mayor John Marchione came prepared with a six-minute video presentation (click the story title to watch it), multiple staff presentations, and marketing tools. 1650 AM was the first digital audio radio station west of the Mississippi but up until last night, no one had ever heard of it!!

1650 AM broadcasts can only be heard from vehicles.  In emergencies, the city will update their website and I'll be posting updates from my home or from the library - as long as power is available.

It's only a matter of time for another local natural disaster. Last time I heard, the Eastside was about 10 years overdue for a 30-year subduction earthquake. Check the local ongoing seismic activity reports here. We've had two severe flood storms in the last 2 years. Serious windstorms with power outages happen and with climate change, probably more so. 1650 AM will be there for us when we need it? (City events are announced in between disasters)

The city video describes Redmond's bustling Emergency Coordinating Center and the Redmond Community Radio. Besides emergency alerts, the radio station broadcasts: city events, Amber Alerts, road repairs and construction, and someday it may broadcast traffic accidents.

Thanks go to council's awareness and the John Marchione Administration for taking the wraps off of 1650 AM!

The city installed signage announcing the Radio station - on RED-WOOD.  9/2012

FINAL Updated Opinion; Do SE Redmond industries have a valid alternative to the city's regional plan for managing filthy industrial stormwater?

FINAL UPDATES: "And the answer is..." - it appears the industries & city will achieve a workable variation to the city regional stormwater plan to allow infiltration, if necessary. County Councilmember Kathy Lambert will tour parts of the Evans Creek county shoreline with me and other city officials on 7/16. Kathy is also a Redmond resident.

UPDATED, 7/14 - King County Environmental Health Manager Fay reassured me that fecal coliform bacteria issues should probably not be a big concern in SE Redmond city septic systems. Many thanks to county councilmember Kathy Lambert for her assistance in this matter. Dave Garland of Ecology reported inconsequential fecal bacteria in Evans Creek, at this time.

Two unintended consequences arose today during my meeting with staff:
1) The inaccurate city-county "zoning jurisdictional city web map" caused undue strain and waste of staff and citizen time during this fact-finding process. 2) Presently, no planner is assigned to the SE Redmond industrial district to review permit applications on site for either conforming or nonconforming uses. Photos are not required by permit to monitor "creeping" of uses onto the Evans Creek tree-lined banks in SE Redmond. (Yet, photos by homeowners are required in residential tree removal permitting. In addition, unannounced on-site residential tree inspections were made by planners and the code enforcement officer, during Ives Administration....my home and my neighbor's for my tree permit).

Councilman Hank Margeson, Chair Public Works Committee reported at a recent council meeting I was concerned about the integrity and safety of the county septic systems in SE Redmond. This is innacurate and a misunderstanding; and probably attributed to the outdated & confusing jurisdictional map on the city website. I've since edited my article to clarify my concern is about city septic systems. Mr. Jon Spangler, DNR, was aware of my intentions and concern about aging city septic in SE Redmond at: Cadman Gravel 'Olympian PreCast,' Skanska, Rainier Welding and most likely Genie Industries. I may be requesting public records to identify & confirm the location of these septic systems (and the newer sewer lines partially servicing 192nd Ave. Ne ) city industrial. In talking to city Dept. of Nat. Resources, East Redmond Properties, LLC (Watson Asphalt Co.) appears hooked up to the sewer line on 192nd Ave NE, though the department was unsure if All Wood Recycling, Inc. (AWR) was hooked up to sewer...hmmm.
UPDATED, 6/26 - after a 30 minute conversation with Jon Spangler of the Department of Natural Resources today I learned the SE Redmond city septic systems are safely operating and probably good for at least another five years.

During the June 17 council meeting, Public Works presented a proposal that could move forward plans for a critical new regional city stormwater facility for SE Redmond. Staff's Regional city Stormwater Facilities plan for SE Redmond can be found HERE with map in its entirety. Excerpts from the proposal are below. You may find these snippets astounding or laugh nervously; I'm ecstatic the Marchione Administration is proposing a regional stormwater system for SE Redmond. The facility would service over 300 acres in the vicinity of Union Hill and 192th Ave. NE adjacent Evans Creek. Find a helpful satellite terrain map HERE of Evans Creek running through a section of city, SE Redmond industrial park.

Below are excerpts from the staff report:


"Stormwater infrastructure in the area is primarily characterized as uncontrolled flow of stormwater from paved surfaces into sandy gravel areas where the water seeps into the ground to enter groundwater flowing towards the City’s municipal drinking water wells." !

"With minimal stormwater infrastructure, this contaminated stormwater can flow into the City’s groundwater (drinking water supply) and into Evan’s Creek, jeopardizing water quality for both of those resources." !

"In response to the need to end the practice of infiltrating potentially contaminated stormwater in this area, and in response to three currently proposed projects (Costco, extension of 188th Ave NE, and Union Hill Road Phase 3) City staff have worked to identify and size potential regional stormwater facilities to meet the current and future needs in this watershed."

This is something! In review of the archived tape of the 6/17/08 Council meeting, it sounds like most of SE Redmond's untreated stormwater currently flows slowly towards Wellhead #5. According to the Public Works director, Wellhead 5 is our most productive well and very important to our supply for affordable drinking water.

"R.I.C.E" -- "Redmond Industries for a Clean Environment" lobbied Council last Tuesday to water-down the proposal to allow existing infiltration practices (against new municipal code) and to not implement the 50 year flood capacity of the facility. SE Redmond city businesses lies in a 100 year floodplain above a shallow aquifer but fortunately, city sewer has been installed in the last 2 years at most city businesses along Evans Creek, according to DNR.

Council may make a decision on the RICE proposal in their their July 1 meeting. Tune into RCTV Channel 21 Tuesday, 7:30 to follow it. According to city Jon Spangler of the Depart. of Nat. Resources, within the last two years SE Redmond city businesses have partially converted to city sewer. In past decades the city businesses relied exclusively on city septic tanks and septic drain fields to treat wastewater. The drain fields are decades old and are buried near the shallow aquifer.

Think about the benefits of sewer and regional stormwater when you look at the photo of this filthy city stormwater pond. This detention pond is the only one I'm aware of in SE Redmond. It's located adjacent Evans Creek on 42nd Street on city property. According Jon Spangler of Redmond Department of Natural Resources the surface water, ground water, and Evans creek is free of significant fecal coliform bacteria; and all existing city septic fields are maintained and not failing. Now that's reassuring!!

Take a quick look at the Department of Ecology's "Citizen Guide to Monitoring Streams - fecal coliform bacteria". Does this answer some of your concerns? Click this link to read my last story on "Evans Creek - what went wrong?" As with any opinion story, I am always open to hearing and sharing your opinion in the comments section below.

And not to forget, the City of Redmond "2007 Water Quality Report" has city contact information. This 2007 report was printed & delivered this summer of '08. The city's new slogan is: "Safe Drinking water is our highest priority". It sure looks like they are working hard towards that end. Thank you, Department of Natural Resources & Council for your efforts!

cc: city council, mayor, city clerk, WDOE.

OPINION: Four Mayors and a Clerk - The duties of our City Clerk

City Clerk Doris Schaible's retirement party on 3/22/1995: Selwyn "Bud" Young ('68-'79; d '99), Christine Himes ('80-'83), Doreen Marchione, ('84-'91), City Clerk Doris Schaible, Rosemarie Ives ('92-'07)

That's quite a picture of retired City Clerk Doris Schaible (in green) with Redmond's four most recently retired Mayors. Doris Schaible was our City Clerk for 25 1/2 years and she worked with everyone of these Mayors.  

Did you know that the City Clerk is the oldest of public servants in local government, along with tax collectors?  A case in point is our first mayor, Frederick A. Reil, 1913 -1918. He was Redmond's first postmaster and town clerk before running for mayor, unopposed. (1)

My personal experience with the Office of City Clerk began about four years ago. A large group of Education Hill neighbors were trying to appeal the Camwest, Inc. Perrigo Heights plat Steep Slope and Landmark Tree Exception. We needed ordinances and code information and we discovered the Clerk's office was a big help.  Today, I like to copy the Clerk on important emails to help my correspondence get circulated to the right people and "for the record".  When I want a public record for some information on, say, SE Redmond septic tanks and our aquifer - I submit my written request to the City Clerk.  cityclerk@redmond.gov.    

Our city clerk is the "hub of government" and direct link between "us" and city government. Probably no one knows more about what's going on in the city then the City Clerk. At a 2008 council meeting, Mayor John Marchione likened the Office of City Clerk as "a rock to stand on".  (I'm not sure what this means).  Since then, public records request service has improved dramatically.  Over time the Clerk's knowledge of the city's recorded history builds. The Clerk is highly respected and a certain amount a power comes with that knowledge.

According to various sources, (3) a City Clerk needs to be highly diplomatic, apolitical, unflappable, patient, versatile, and alert. I might add careful and assertive. One understands why a city clerk has these traits when reading their job description, as found on the city website, as follows:

1. supports the Mayor and City Council, oversees the Hearing Examiner function,
2. coordinates City elections and monitors state legislative actions.
3. responsible for coordinating and distributing agendas and information in support of City Council meetings.
4. is the official Public Records Officer of the City and maintains official City records including minutes, ordinances, resolutions, contracts, deeds and titles.
5. In conjunction with the Police Department, the Clerk's Office oversees and responds to public records requests.

This old website description barely describes the duties of the Office of the City Clerk. In  2010, Mayor John Marchione added additional work load to the City Clerk's job.  The Office of the Clerk (3 FTE's) is now responsible for updating the Council portion of the City Web site.  The Clerk is also Program Manager for the new City Hall  Volunteer Front Desk Program.  As the Administration has grown, so have the number of meetings needing a Record by the Clerk.  The record at meetings is taken by notes, recordings, email, and video.

When City Clerk Malissa Files was promoted by Mr. Mayor to Finance Manager, Michelle McGehee was promoted to City Clerk.  I think Michelle was hired by Mayor Rosemarie Ives.  

Our new City Clerk, Michelle McGehee, is a "Certified Municipal Clerk". She is extremely well qualified, friendly, and committed. Michelle moved from Alaska to take the job.  Michelle, or her deputy clerk Liz, can be reached at 425-556-2190 and by EMAIL: CityClerk@redmond.gov.

Michelle's job has definitely grown from the clerking days of Doris Schaible! (2) In 1969, the population of Redmond was 9,213. There were 60 employees. 1 Parks employee. 5 firefighters. 10 police. 1 traffic light (Redmond Way & 164 Ave. NE).  Today, the population is over 50,000 by night and 90,000 by day. 

References:

(1) "Redmond Reflections...from settlers to software", Naomi Hardy, 2006; (2) Doris Schaible, Community Relations, Redmond Historical Society. Photo courtesy of Doris Schaible; (3) Wikipedia - (click title page).

Posted:  June, 2008.  Updated:  5/28/2010

By Bob Yoder
Photo donated by Doris Schaible

The new downtown "Street Art" bicycle racks - how do you use them?

Redmond's new "Street Art Bike Racks" have made their debut! "Ain't she a beauty"?

PART ONE: What is this Street Art? And how is it used?

The city's original pilot rack was placed outside the Library for over a year before the city launched their Bike Rack program big-time this year. This one in front of Redmond Physical Therapy and the original library pilot now have the company of numerous others downtown. Perhaps someday they'll vary the theme with a High-Wheeled bike rack like the Historical Society's Logo or the one pictured in this storefront window; or another design or color?

According to the city, "The rack allows both wheels and frame to be secured using a u-style bike lock, an anti-theft device that is significantly more effective than traditional chain or cable locks. Two to four bikes can easily be locked parallel to the rack, leaving the sidewalk clear for pedestrian traffic." U-Locks can be purchased at Target, Sammamish Valley Cycle and other bicycle retail outlets.

When the city launched Street Art racks I wasn't too surprised no one was using them. (Have you seen a bike hooked up?) Probably a combination of factors limit their use: 1) bicyclists not knowing this green street art has function and 2) the downtown core is hollow designed for pass-though traffic rather than business, residents, pedestrians, and bicyclists, and 3) the price of gas is still too low. In any event, I decided to try the racks out for myself and give you a critical review.

The first two racks I found were near the 80th Street & 164th Street intersection by Victor's Coffee. I hooked my bike up to the first one (right) with a U-lock. It was easy to hook up because I could lean my bike against the street tree.


But soon I realized my bike gears and chain were chaffing the street tree and over time I was concerned the tree could get girdled or diseased.

The other Rack I tested was right on the intersection close to a bus stop by Banner Banka. See below photo. Unfortunately, again another tree was in the way AND flower pots. A time may come (gas is $8/gallon in Europe now) when rack space is hard to find. Obviously, it's unsafe. A far better location for the rack is to the left and right of the bus stop and back a few paces. Bicyclists and pedestrian commuters using the bus would find the Rack more convenient and be safer. I don''t know who in Public Works installed these racks but it's evident beauty and visibility ranked higher than safety, function, and location.

Finally, on the left is a picture of the favorite...."hitching post" at Victor's Coffee on Gilman, across the street from the bus stop. The city could have looked more carefully for location clues when making placement decisions. One may notice the bikes hitched to deck railing partially obstruct the door and could possibly impede passage during an emergency. A great place for a rack is on the sidewalk seen in the foreground. Victor's and three other businesses on Gilman Street are well buffered from arteriole traffic. This is a wonderful "mid-block connector" street. One day it could redevelop and become a vibrant gathering place for pedestrians and bikes. Gilman Street is a great place for bike racks!

This is the only "hitching post" I found on Gilman Street. "Redmond Vacuum," a basket store, re-sale maternity and children clothing store are just down the street. With 7000 people expected to be living in downtown Redmond in the next 10 or so years, Gilman Street could someday be a core asset for revitalizing our downtown. I'd like to be a property owner here!

Guidance on how bicycle funds are spent in Redmond is provided by the Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Committee. -- dedicated citizen volunteers.

Redmond's excellent & undiscovered "Bike-Ped" web site on bicycle resources is HERE.

PART TWO: a critique of the Bike Rack review process:

During their 10/8/07 committee meeting, the Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Committee conducted a final review of the bike racks, according to the 10/8 Minutes on record. The Minutes show Staff made the decision to implement the "bike bike rack" program on a larger scale in 2008. The Arts Commission was not included in the formal decision-making process. The actual installation and larger implementation of the program took place at the beginning of Mr. Mayor's term.

The Ped-Bike Citizen Advisory Committee's final decision to "go ahead" with the project city-wide was made after an on-site visit with staff to the library pilot rack. Specific site visits to planned placement locations may have been left up to the Public Works staff. On-site visits by the Advisory Committee were not recorded in the 9/10/07 Minutes./p>

The "Bike Bike Street Art" Public Works project is under the guidance of the Ped-Bike Citizen Advisory Committee and management by the city transportation staff. So far, the only time the public has directly been engaged in this project was during the Ives Administration via 1) a press release survey when the pilot project was announced, 2) by a city website survey, and 3) citizens driving or walking by the library Pilot rack.

CONCLUSION: On-site vetting and observation by staff , advisory committees and commissions is recommended especially during the implementation of a project, however small in scope. Urban design and implementation decisions are lasting and deserve on-site scrutiny. The downtown rack project can be improved with better rack placements, a press release and public education. The project has merit and motivates us to think about our urban design and the importance of on-site vetting. These are my opinions; your comments are always welcome.

My first 11/07 story with comments is: "Redmond's new hybrid bike - bike rack or street ornament?" and it can be found by clicking on this link and then scrolling down or clicking on the title of this story and scrolling.

Bike rack made by Dero

Top events for Redmond in 2007

Take a look to the right for the survey on top stories for 2007. Do you see it?

Defeat of the first -and expensive - levy lid-lift was up there for me as one of the biggest events in Redmond 2007. Why does the city give a "property tax increase" the wonkish label of "lid lift"? No one really knows what a lid lift is. (Oh! there's the reason!) This mysterious terminology is just as nebulous as that 4-page "marketing" piece staff mailed -- crammed with vagaries. No wonder citizens clamoured for "transparency". My Letter to the R. Reporter griped about the $50M plus City Hall albatross. I voted for the levy only to support council. It wasn't easy. 60% voted NO vs. safety and park funding.

The election of Marchione was #1 for me. It was historic, with the start of a "Marchione dynasty" and the end of Rosemarie's 16 year reign. It was the first time I ever campaigned and it was exciting. The long process brings out the best and worst in candidates (and their supporters). My blog stories gave me some voice. It was fun! And, the best man for leading the City of Redmond won!

The size and cost of our new City Hall was my #2 story because of it's harm to our budget & city services and especially for it's symbolism of government waste & excess. Why no citizen input on this "project"? The first lid lift lost mostly because of the City Hall. The size and expense of the building demonstrated Rosemarie's power, control and charismatic personality. The Silver Thaw art flood lights outside of the Hall never worked from the start. Bureaucracy at it's finest.

The removal (clear-cutting) of Perrigo Heights hill-top woodlands was a nightmare for the neighborhood. 8 acres of mixed conifer/hardwood urban forest and trails gone. Hartman bog wetlands lost it's shelter from the sun and wind and is drying up. I wrote three columns in the Reporter hoping an angel would step forward. Mayor Ives "partnered" for a cheap deal. The new $70 million City Hall made council feel "cash poor". As Redmond urbanizes, the next generations of Redmonites will pay dearly for our short-sightedness.

The Redmond High School basketball's District tournament wins was refreshing and happy news for this usually gripey blog! "You gotta believe!" ....and our young men and their coaches DID! Did you see any games?

Rosemarie Ives , Mayor of Redmond, 1991 - 2007

Rosemarie Ives, Mayor of Redmond, 1991-2007

Very nice of Rosemarie in front of City Hall "Ice Thaw" sculpture

published by The Seattle Times, 12/19/2007


"The Many Faces & Places of Rosemarie" - a video tribute
produced by Kim Van Eckstrom, City of Redmond

Four-term Redmond Mayor tried to "Lead from the Heart"
SEATTLE TIMES, 12/19/07

Mayor Rosemarie Ives and Jim Robinson's last council meeting

No photo was found on the city website of Mayor Ives and Council together with each other.

Rosemarie was cheerful and wearing a purple dress with Santa lapel pin. She was sitting next to Council President Nancy McCormick (adversaries) in a bright red dress.

-Mayor Lauinger of Kirkland gave a commemorative plaque to Mayor Ives after reading it. Very friendly comments. Rosemarie stated she considered Kirkland our sister city. Rosemarie cried.
-Microsoft executive, Jim Stanton, read a letter from Steve Balmer, CEO of Microsoft. He recalled Rosemarie's city theme "Redmond is a community of good neighbors". He spoke to Rosemarie's legacy in environmental stewardship.
-Rosemarie cried some.
-A representative for the City Hall union representing 1/3 of all city hall workers complained again about employee relations.
-Rosemarie cried lightly as she started to read the Consent Agenda. No items pulled.
-Rosemarie spoke highly of the 5-acre wetland at Microsoft Redmond West enhanced by Microsoft.
-Rosemarie told councilmember Vache to speak to the microphone several times. Fussing on how the BIDI committee was terminated.

Bob Yoder's COUNCIL & MAYORAL "AWARDS," 

• Most improved (relationships w/Ives & humor) - Richard Cole
• Most emotional - tie between Kimberly Allen & Rosemarie Ives
• Most humorous - Jim Robinson
• Most uncomfortable w/the moment - Nancy McCormick
• Most value-centered - Pat Vache
• Most amiable - Hank Margeson
• Most family oriented - John Marchione

Jim Robinson's dedication for 16 years of council work: '
"Redmond montage" given to Robinson by McCormick & Rosemarie. 

Rosemarie noted: Sensitive Areas ordinance, intelligence, wit, humility, champion of diversity, inclusive, gracious, blossoming environmental ethic. 

McCormick spoke of Jim's: passion, wit, x-rated goodbye to Richard Grubb. 

Cole spoke of Jim's sayings - "City Council is the bottom of political food chain", "if you torture the data it will confess", "show me the delta", a fellow bean counter with Robinson. 

Vache said: values - truth & honesty, authentic (Robinson smiled), objectivity, data-driven, humor is really good when you figure it out. 

Marchione said: thoughtful, insightful, dry wit and courage, battle star galactic hobby, 

Allen said: a hoot, new ideas, institutional knowledge, vision, steward of environment, dancing with the stars, sharing. 

Margeson said: dedication, supporter of environment, parks, trails, role model, unique instincts. 

Cole: asked Jim to sign his George and Laura Bush calendar. Robinson's response: Angelina Jolie joke,

Robinson's farewell:   16-years ago, a great ride, Redmond is not just anytown USA (Ives), thank Ives (ahead of her time esp. w/ environment not afraid to ask for strong city services), Cole's vote for NO was yes?, thanks staff for job well done, get involved in politics - especially children. "simply have to make peace with planet earth", run into nasty elements on campaign but also good people who care, 2005 prostate cancer "in the end all we really have is each other." People first. [standing ovation].

Marchione's dedication: got Redmond montage from Ives & McCormick. Rosemarie said: she is in common with John as a 1-term councilmember , church, neighborhood. John is Mayor #10. Job can be scary and unclear, great staff, commend his family, challenge to balance personal life & family. McCormick said: regional affairs. Cole said: didn't know who he was 5 years ago.
Robinson humorously said: "I suppose I was supposed to say something nice"? Good first impression of John doorbelling. Jim liked, best of all, John's logical and clear statement of issues and following up. Vache said: he won't say goodbye. Allen said: glad not to be standing in John's place, collaboration. Margeson said: families intertwined, John coined "dodger" mantra for being offside in soccer. Met John as soon as he arrived in Redmond. Marchione responded: new chair for me? Claim to fame of finishing his council term - his Mom could not.

-Rosemarie's Dedication: McCormick gave Ives a wrapped gift. Remembered, Rosemarie called her for help about being Chair of Planning Commission. 5 years on planning commission. Public office is toll on families. [struggle for words]. Rosemarie responded: Nancy appointed to Planning Commission at same time. Tom Bower. Thank you to Nancy for devotion. Exquisite crystal gift. Cole said: joked of "cruel and unusual punishment to be together for over 20 years." Robinson said: reminisced about first meeting Ives. Admired her laughing at his jokes. "Council retreat with Dr. Phil". National League of Cities. Vache said: he predates Ives for Planning Commission, Values - big picture perspective (River Walk), Environmental vision, Celebrating and having fun & diversity, the kids. Marchione said: daughter born on same day as Mayor Ives mayoral appointment, name recall, not retiring or shy, passion, environmental ethic admired, Allen said: remembered first met Rosemarie in purple track suit strolling up street saying hi , set bar high, independence, voice, energy, CRYING (both) "my mentor", stand on the shoulders of those before you. Margeson said: passion, leadership for a quarter a century, generation that only know Ives as mayor. Norman Rockwell El. fundraisers appreciated more than known. Rosemarie responded: if there's food & a party I'll be there (crying). told of her video made by Van Eckstrom of Rosemarie expressions - on government web site. Crying about how the people of Redmond motivate her in tough times and the wonderful staff. Proud of Green Gateway of Leary Way. Jesting with Richard Cole about putting up with each other. Proud of Town Center. crying some. Staff brought big box of Kleenex to party. Issues are interrelated and very complicated. Saying lots of hail Mary's for city officials. Adjourned, smiling at the crystal McCormick gave her saying is reminds her of the "Ice Thaw" art outside of City Hall.  Laughing....

-- Bob Yoder

A rebuttal to the Ives Administration on my final "Redmond Reporter" column on water supply

In February, 2007 I was asked by John Huether, Editor of the "Redmond Reporter," to write a column about Redmond events connected in some way to Council and Administration's work. I wrote 11 "Citizen Watch" columns. I will periodically post my columns on the Neighborhood Blog for those who missed them or to make a point. In this case, I am highlighting parts of my "water supply" column that Kim Van Eckstrom, Redmond's Chief Communications Officer objected to as "inaccurate." This was my last column accepted by the Redmond Reporter since Van Eckstrom's complaints to the new Editor, Bill Christianson. Some have asked me to rebut the Administration...which I do at the end of the column.

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OPINION / "We face a water supply challenge" by Bob Yoder, 'Redmond Reporter', 7/11/07

Walking Perrigo Woods trail last week, I noticed construction materials dumped next to the “Perrigo Springs memorial willow and historic marker”. The city is looking for the contractor responsible for this oversight. (1) As if enough wasn’t enough for Redmond’s historic spring, CAMWEST DEVELOPMENT is building a steep-slope sewer pipe to service the 24-home Perrigo Heights project. The pipe will run within yards of the spring.

Perrigo Springs was Redmond’s only water supply until 1927 and it served as a major source of supply until 1962 – hard to believe. To visit Perrigo Springs from Avondale, drive to the end of 180th Ave. NE. Or, hike down the trail from NE 100th St.

Redmond’s two present sources of drinking water are: 1) the ground and 2) from the Reed Mountain watershed (5,331 ft), east of Carnation. About 40% of our drinking water is stored in an underground “aquifer” and drawn from five city wells. Redmond’s aquifer is only 5-20 feet below the surface so keeping hazardous waste off the ground is critical. After citizens reported a waste site on the Evans Creek bank aquifer last year, the city initiated a “ground water monitoring program” and “online” hazardous waste reporting. (2)

The remaining 60% of our water supply is piped from the Tolt River reservoir, fed by the Reed Mountain watershed. Recently, the city has recently combined Tolt Reservoir water with well water for projects, like Perrigo Heights.

The Avondale well (#4) (3) has been challenged, in part, by a loss of pervious land paved over by multiple, housing developments. Pervious land is required for recharging our aquifer with rain water. The city is working with AegisLiving to preserve historic Keller Farm wetlands vital to aquifer recharge. Aegis is proposing to set aside 119 acres of wetlands they bought from historic Keller Farm (pumpkins!) adjacent Avondale Road, Aegis plans to build a retirement community on the parcel’s remaining 6 acres.

According to the Redmond website, city water customers have doubled in the last 10 years. (4)More alarming, King County population is expected to increase 300,000 by 2025 –the equivalent of Tacoma and Bellevue combined! By 2020 existing water supplies will not be enough to reach forecasted demands (2001 Pug. Sd. Reg. Outlook).

With 12,000-plus moving into Redmond within 10 years, what is the city doing to keep up with demand? Redmond has partnered with the regional Cascade Water Alliance to build a new $55M supply system. Councilman John Marchione is on the Board.

The Alliance plan: Lake Tapps in Tacoma will store mountain water originating from eastern Mt. Ranier’s Emmons glacier and the White River. Emmons glacier is huge but started retreating in 2003. University of Washington scientists forecast a 59% loss of snow pack by 2050 due to global warming. Much is at stake! Conservation is critical.

Bellevue saved 20% by implementing a “water conservation program”. Visit http:// savingwater.org for excellent conservation tips, rebates, and free devices. Tell city officials to initiate a “water conservation program”. (5) The Alliance alone won’t solve our next generation’s water needs.
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Rebuttal

(1) Bill Campbell, Acting Director of Public Works told me they were trying to get in touch with the contractor.
(2) My statement is correct is found on Redmond's website link under "Activities" 2007: http://redmond.gov/insidecityhall/publicworks/environment/grhistory.asp
(3) Edit. At the time I wrote this article, the city had taken off the No. ID's from their Wellhead Protection Zone map. The city is numbering their Wellheads on site but still not on the Wellhead Protection Zone Map. Wells no longer appear to be named after streets ie. "Avondale well" but that could change. I learned tonight that #5 (by Target) is the most productive and important well and most subject to stormwater run-off and infiltration from SE Redmond industrial area. Council has allowed these industrial businesses to continue to discharge stormwater by infiltration. (7/08). DNR will be installing a 300 acre regional stormwater system in the area, soon! This has been promulgated by the new Costco warehouse. 6/17/08
(4) My statement is correct and used to be referenced on Redmond's website link under "Wellhead Protection Ordinance Updates". http://redmond.gov/insidecityhall/publicworks/environment/grhistory.asp
*Van Eckstrom DELETED from the site: "The City of Redmond has grown and doubled the number of its customers in the past 10 years - making care of its precious and limited water supplies all that much more important". I have a hard copy of the original web page.
(5) Mayor Ives told me after a council meeting they've had a conservation program for 16 years. My answer is: 1) my column is an OPINION column and I didn't think we had much of a program. 2) as it turns out we didn't have a program plan in writing. ..rather a rebate offering and occasional Public Service Announcements on RCTV and FOCUS magazine.
October, 2007 the city initiated a Water Conservation Efficiency Program, linked below: http://redmond.gov/insidecityhall/citycouncil/20071016pdfs/IIIA1.pdf Case closed!

The Administration's claims were enough to 'frighten' the new Editor into cancelling my column. The fact the Primary election was around the corner had everything to do with it.

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?!

"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

10/15/07, 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. "

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.

9/11/07, Impressions of Hank Myers council debut

UPDATE, 4/15/2024 - Council member Henry "Hank" Myers has been in office almost two years.  From my weekly Council viewing and reporting it's clear he's a dedicated and tireless representative.  It's sometimes difficult to discern his true position though it appears he leans to the right.  

As Council Chair of Parks and Human Resources he has attended several GreenRedmond tree-planting work parties.  He tenaciously supports the SE Industries lobby, RICE.  RICE lobbies for "hands off" on costly stormwater regulations.  They backed Hank during his run for Council.  Mr. Myers basks in his political atmosphere. He often addresses Council during meetings in a formal, speech-like manner, sometimes leading with a list of credentials. Myers is very smart with career experience in regulatory matters.  My nickname for Hank is "Wiser Myers."   He's a man of very good humor and would laugh at this moniker.  

I scanned the Council meeting last night on my DVD. The highlight was watching Hank Myers getting sworn into the City Council and watching him in action. He had his first night at the Council Study Session "Roundtable" and was awesome. Hank demonstrated confidence, leadership, transportation expertise, enthusiasm and commitment in his new role. My first impression of Mr. Myers is that he will be a valuable and welcome addition to Redmond government.

Conversation kicked off on The Overlake Urban Master Plan. This topic gave Mr. Myers an excellent opportunity to demonstrate his expertise in his career field of "transportation economics" & planning. He interacted very effectively with Tom Hinman and Susan Petipas of the Planning Commission AND staff. You could feel the new energy and buzz at the council table. Even Cole was especially relaxed and funny. I think Cole felt a burden of responsibility lift with the presence of Hank.

OPINION by Yoder, 9/11/2007 - Updated, 4/15/2024