Updated: Council Studies Plan To Rejuvenate Old Town District

Pho Restaurant, 2011 - an historic hotel/ photo Yoder

2013: The need for higher and better purposes for the Old Town Downtown neighborhood were discussed at a September city council/mayoral study session.

Leary Way is at the heart of Old Town which is delineated by Cleveland Street, Redmond Way to Gilman and 164th Avenue. Sixteen landmark buildings, 40 years and older, occupy this historic district.     David Scott Meade, Chair of Redmond's Design Review Board, commented on Leary Way at the Council meeting, as follows:

"We are working on new guidelines and standards. I'd like to wrap my arms around the historic district and create an envelope of landscaping, hanging pots, street furniture, paving scapes, and opportunities to promote the businesses and structures that exist here now. I'd like to see a higher and better purposes so we can enjoy them for the next 100 years."  

Miguel Llanos, Landmarks Commissioner said  "There's a Master Plan for the Downtown Park but not for Old Town. Old Town is a vibrant district that uses it's history to make it different from the rest of Redmond and other parts of the Eastside." Miguel ran down a list of Old Town signature historic buildings contributing energy to the downtown core: The Matador, Redmond Sports Bar, Half Price Books, Brown's Garage Liquor Store.

Miguel suggested a guided tour of the vacant second floor of the Pho Restaurant  on Leary- once an historic hotel. "We need to reach out to Old Town tenants and landowners, like the Nelsons", said Miguel, to help rehabilitate the core.  Graffiti is tagged on the metal siding.  The Pho Restaurant building has a new owner and he may be more amenable to removing the metal siding (10/8/13 Council Meeting).   

David Scott Meade agreed that something is needed to be done with the metal siding on the Pho Restaurant and to save, improve, and enhance the Old Town structures, in general. He recommended applying transfer development rights as bargaining chips to trade for improvements. "Incentives are needed now before things change," said Meade, "Leary is the heart of what Redmond is and, as Miguel notes, and we need to be more proactive."

"A Master Plan is needed before Old Town gets overwhelmed," said Llanos.

-- Bob Yoder, 9/2011, Updated 9/2013

Without a Master Plan Old Town rapidly deteriorated.  Leary Way is now the home of a crime-ridden "pot shop," a vape store and crazy utility box art. Two other pot shops are located in Old Town.  Panhandlers hang out.  And an 8-story residential building will wall off the north-end of Leary and plug the historic district. However, Palmers and the RBG offer flowered curbside dining and deck out the holidays with colorful lights. Development of the gas station is still up in the air and providing scarce parking space. 

Marchione Administration holds "networking meetings" for Education Hill and North Redmond residents.

Redmond Neighborhoods (9)

OPINION:  One of Mayor Marchione's goals this year is to improve government transparency in the Neighborhoods of Redmond, including Overlake.  John's Administration is implementing  "The Neighborhood Network" program to build on city government visibility, networking opportunities and awareness of our neighborhoods.

Education Hill and North Redmond Network Neighborhood meetings were held earlier this month.  Per 2010 US Census, the Education Hill neighborhood population is ~12,000 residents; the North Redmond neighborhood population is ~ 4,000 residents.  This census information and the following letter from Kim Dietz was generously provided by the Marchione Administration upon request.    B.Y.

from the desk of Kim Dietz...  

The April 7th Neighborhood Network meeting went quite well.  Approximately 30 neighbors from the Education Hill and North Redmond neighborhoods attended.  Councilmember Cole was also in attendance.   Read more of Kim's Letter >>

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 -

10/20/07, 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]

10/7, 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!

--------------------------------------------

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

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.

10/27, "Redmond Politics" - a gossipy new election blog

UPDATED:   "Redmond Politics" - was a short-lived gossipy social media blog about candidates of Election 2007.  

Find it here:  http://redmondpolitics.blogspot.com

The author, Ron Fuller states:  "This blog is intended to be a resource for voters about the Redmond city elections. There are 4 council seats in play and we will elect a new mayor. Your comments on the posts are encouraged but please note that any profanity or inappropriate language will result in comments being deleted from the site."

by Ron Fuller

Redmond Politics could be THE PLACE to post your comments on the candidates....

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About the author: , 7818 140 Place NE, said he wanted to educate himself on how the Council conducts business. He emphasized the need for transparency and funding for essential services."

"Ronald Fuller

- Minutes of the December 5, 2006 Council Meeting.

Comment:  Redmond Neighborhood Blog limits political reporting to nonpartisan, "community building" issues.  Political news takes a back seat, however Redmond Blog (RNB) ADVERTISERS welcomes and encourages candidate advertisements with discount pricing.  Bob Yoder, 6/11/2012

10/5/07, The Significance of Holly Plackett to Redmond's future

The significance of Holly Plackett to the future of Redmond:

• Did you know that in the Primary, Marchione won over Robinson by only 3% - 193 votes?
  
• Did you know that Holly Plackett collected 1517 votes in the Primary? That's a lot of votes!
  
• Would Holly's endorsement make a big difference as to who our next Mayor is in November?
  
• Quite likely, considering her recognition in the community and strong following.

I will soon be posting a table comparing Holly's platform to John and Jim's platforms.

Do you have strong feelings or comments you want to document or share? If so:

IN RETROSPECT: Ms. Plackett's influence on the election was minimal. The only candidate she endorsed was Brian Colin and he lost by a wide margin to Hank Margeson. 11/12/07

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some mayoral candidate observations from the Seattle Times, 8/22/07....

2 from council favored for Redmond post

By Ashley Bach; and Sonia Krishnan

Seattle Times Eastside bureau

"Marchione and Plackett ran with promises of a more collaborative approach than Ives', while Robinson had the mayor's endorsement and said he wanted to raise taxes on businesses."

- snippet from "The Seattle Times", 8/22/07

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The last time I heard from Mayor Ives, businesses and residents split the city tax burden about equally. Has anyone heard otherwise? Bob Yoder

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

8/25, "Race for Mayor" Reporter article reviewed

Today's Redmond Reporter "Race for Mayor" article by Mary Decker provoked me to express some thoughts I have for the candidates and for Ms. Decker's reporting.

In general, I found Ms. Decker's reporting balanced and fair. She gave the front page color photos to the finalists - Marchione and Robinson; with the larger front page photo of "first-place winner" John Marchione hugging his child with a warm smile on election night. I felt this photo made up for the less expressive one taken by the Reporter prior to the Primary.

Some key points reported by Decker and paraphrased (in color) worth repeating and my comments, as follows:

JOHN MARCHIONE -

• most voters favored Marchione's message of "living within your means - households have to stick to a budget, so why not the city? I absolutely agree on that one. Just look at what's happening to the mortgage markets today from all those easy, 0-down loans!
  
• most voters approved of Marchione's proactive plan to keep more density in the Overlake and downtown areas. Yes, I agree! and said so at recent city council meeting. Hopefully, our chances to preserve some of the open space we enjoy in the neighborhoods will increase by focusing density downtown.
  
• Mr. Marchione is concerned about Robinson's idea of raising business taxes. John thinks that if businesses get driven out by higher taxes the residential property taxes may be raised to make up the difference. Holly Plackett also had no intentions to raise business taxes.
  
• Marchione continued to emphasize the need for a transparent budget with the community knowing where the money is going. hear! hear! Read my blog ON "THE SHELL GAME" (Tag "aaa") describing how the city shifts operating funds and capital funds back & forth at will, frequently for political purposes.
  
• Mr. Marchione emphasized being proactive in managing land use, growth, and housing choices. GOOD! Zoning Amendments need to be done with thought and scrutiny so as not to create further "Perrigo Heights" and "Tyler Creek" zoning oversights. The Development Guide needs to be updated to eliminate the scores of "Exceptions" to land-use approval and unrestrained PRD uses affecting neighboring communities. Holly brought some of these ideas out , as well.
  
• Marchione promotes a more active and lively downtown with dining, etc. Yes! I'd like to see some sidewalk cafe's and book stores and an cooperative art gallery and jazz restaurant.

JIM ROBINSON -

• Jim's central campaign platform is "do you want a hometown or simply an employment center? This tagline brings to attention the growing influx of workers who work in Redmond but don't live here. (I think we have a resident population of 50,000 with another 30,000 commuting to Redmond for work everyday.) So what's the answer to this plateform statement? Quite simple: by building more dwelling units and homes more commuters become residents and our "hometown" will grow. The fact is we have to grow to meet Growth Mangaement requirements. A fallacy is to believe our "hometown" won't change. It's already morphed from horse farms to suburbia & according to the Planning Commisssion (apointed by Ives) will evenually grow to an urban mass-transit center with 6-12 story buildings.
  
• Mr. Robinson attributes much of the traffic and congestion to commuters and a need to lessen it around Education Hill and around town. True! No doubt the commuters add to congestion. Unfortunately, even if you build homes to mitigate commuter traffic (and build our hometown) the traffic will still run through our neighborhoods and congestion will only get worse on Education Hill and around town.
  
• Robinson "sticks to his belief that public safety should have been funded as a priority all along while reserving Levy lifts for road infrastructure and other things". I agree with Jim, as do Marchione and Plackett. But, it seems it's been a standard of practice over the years to put safety out for levy vote. Mr. Robinson's been been a councilman for 16 years. Why haven''t we been able to improve our funding priorities for safety by now?
  
• Robinson associates citizen concern over our environment with the severe weather we've had in December and our lack of control over it. I think the Public Works Dept. has done an excellent job planting native shrubs and trees along river and stream areas--these shrubs help to reduce stormwater flows and preserve habitat and water quality. Jim is Council Chair of Parks. I'd like to see our Chair encourage the Parks Dept. and Police Dept. to pick up and remove their Proposition signs....to help our environment. To "take control" of our climate extremes citizens need to know where the young, old, and disabled can go to find a city shelter.
  
• Jim's supporters are pleased with the idea of updating Hartman Pool. Sure, it's a good idea. I love to swim. It's great excercise and soft on the joints.
  
• Robinson stresses "sustainability". The levy propositions are short term solutions when considering inflation is 5-6%. Jim proposes sit-down sessions and discussions to sort it all out and re-balance the revenues.

HOLLY PLACKETT -

• Saddened by the loss but vows to stay involved.
  
• Will keep working on behalf of the Family Resource Center
  
• and work for Grass Lawn neighborhood
  
• and work with Council to advocate for other HOA's
  
• concerns about Costco impacts to SE neighborhoods.
  
• and she's actively following the campaigns to ensure a robust democratic process during the election.

/> Hey! another neighbor just posted a comment. Press "Comments" below


HOLLY PLACKETT -

Saddened by the loss but vows to stay involved.
Will keep working on behalf of the Family Resource Center
and work for Grass Lawn neighborhood
and work with Council to advocate for other HOA's
concerns about Costco impacts to SE neighborhoods.
and she's actively following the campaigns to ensure a robust democratic process during the election.


BOB THEA:
I have to say, I’m glad it(voter turnout) increased, but it is still a paltry percentage of registered voters. Where is civic pride? Responsibility?Thanks for keeping us updated and informed Saturday August 25, 2007


RICHARD MORRIS:
Robinson's theme of "coming home" feels very nostalgic. There was a time, several years ago, when hot air balloons could safely land in open fields around town. No more hot air ballons.His question "do you want a hometown or an employment center?" has little to do with growth in Redmond. Redmond is currently a hometown *and* an employment center. Redmond is a thriving hometown with strong schools, churches, parks, and plenty of retail outlets. Redmond is, of course, an employment center with manufacturing, retail, and services. Redmond has seen tremendous growth in both homes and employment over the past 25 years. Growth management must accomodate both home (residential) and business needs. Each time Hwy 520 is extended, widened, and ramped more people will want to move into Redmond and work in Redmond. Is Jim Robinson proposing that a fence should be erected to keep out new residents or new businesses?

8/10/07, Press Release - Marchione Builds Broad Bi-Partisan Support

***Press Release: August 10, 2007: Marchione Builds Broad Bi-Partisan Support for Mayoral Bid

.

August 10, 2007, Redmond - Current Councilmember and candidate for Mayor, John Marchione, announced endorsements from State Representatives Ross Hunter (D) and Larry Springer (D), along with the support from former State Representative John Betrozoff (R) and County Councilmember Jane Hague (R). “John’s maturity allows him to see the big picture and work cooperatively with others to solve problems,” said Representative Springer.

.
Marchione’s endorsements also include Bellevue Mayor Grant Degginger, Kirkland Mayor Jim Lauinger, and Duvall Mayor Will Ibershof. “John has the ability to bring people together to get things done. That's what leaders do. He will be a great mayor,” said Degginger.

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In total, Marchione lists 18 current and former elected officials endorsing his candidacy for Mayor.

8/6/07 - Ives campaign endorsement - Where is HER record?

Dear Neighbors -

Yesterday, my neighbor showed me a campaign post card Mayor Ives mailed to selected citizens. (I was not one).

Rosemarie promotes her candidate - Mr. Robinson - as "backed by a proven voting record, not just rhetoric". It appears as if Mayor Ives is insinuating that John Marchione and Holly Plackett have don't have a proven voting record?! I don't think Ms. Ives statement is fair.

Is this an instance of Mayor Ives withholding information to her advantage? Probably...but, why? The truth is neither Robinson, Plackett or Marchione have identifiable voting records on file throughout their term in office.

Several weeks ago I asked the Administration for a tabulation of each councilmember's ongoing voting record during their term. According to the City Clerk. no such records are kept. (see below). Mayor Ives -- in standing behind Mr. Robinison -- hasn't proven a wit about her candidate's ongoing voting record or his word. What counts to voters is what the broader community thinks. For answers, try: 1) the Muni League of King County ratings and 2) recent TIMES editorial recommendations. Both pieces are posted here. Your vote counts on August 21! And, it will be tabulated!

Best regards, Bob Yoder, 8/8-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CITY CLERK:

Mr. Yoder,Thank you for your suggestion regarding the voting record spreadsheet. Currently, I am in the process of reviewing meeting management systems that will allow votes to be tallied electronically and be posted to the Redmond website in the context of the subject that they refer to. However, given constraints in the City's budget, it is unclear when such a system could be implemented.In the mean time, as you are aware, all votes are recorded in the meeting minutes for each Council meeting.

*These minutes are posted on the web for the public to view at http://www.redmond.gov/insidecityhall/citycouncil/minutes.asp.

Regards,

Malisa Files
City Clerk
City of Redmond
425.556.2190 phone
425.556.2198 fax

* archived monthy to 2005 - "hunt and peck for each vote".

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EXTRA! FOLLOW THE CANDIDATES' CONTRIBUTION MONEY HERE: http://www.pdc.wa.gov/Public/Campaign/Default.aspx

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FROM BARB THOMPSEN, Education Hill neighbor & community volunteer - "I saw some deer while out walking my dogs on Education Hill this morning. I can’t help but feel sad for them—they have nowhere to go. Which of the candidates is going to do something about saving our green spaces and stop catering to the big builders like Cam West? I am so glad that Rosemarie Ives is leaving; I’ve been saying for a long time that being in office as long as she has, results in building relationships and being influenced by them regardless of good intentions." - Barb Thompsen, Education Hill neighbor. 8/5/07

Thursday August 9, 2007 -
RICHARD MORRIS: When I attended the recent Community Meeting held July 31, Mayor Ives indicated the budget she proposed was not adopted by the Council. She said she preferred her budget, and was unhappy with the budget approved by the Council. At one point in the Community Meeting, Councilwoman Kim Allen jumped up to explain that there was a minority position on the budget. She indicated she was part of the minority. The nature of the minority position was not made clear in the Community Meeting. Council President Nancy McCormick said more than once that the Community Meeting was not about "Budget 101", however the nature of the disagreement between the Mayor and the Council is all about the budget. The disagreement is so wide, that the seeks more millions in tax revenues from property owners by means of increasing levy lids, named Proposition #1 and Proposition #2. This budget fight has brewing for a few years, as the Mayor has consistently increased city employees. On the other hand, Council members have consistently promised to hold the line on increasing taxes, staying within the State tax rates. When asked why the City spent so much money on the City Hall building, Nancy McCormick mentioned that the number of increased city employees demanded a larger building. Certainly Redmond has experienced huge growth over the past 15-20 years, yet total tax revenues for city operations would also increase. In my household budget, I must live within my earned income. Why can't the City operate within its tax revenues?

Thursday August 9, 2007 -

YODER: Many claims are vs. Marchione for his 5-2 voting "gang". Here's one that's not - Marchione voted to save Anderson Park 4-3. Jim Robinson voted against it. I hope we will start thinking of 5-2 voting or 6-1 voting as "consensus" rather than a "gang up".

Tuesday September 4, 2007 -

7/31/07, John Marchione's Letter to the Neighborhood Blog

All mayoral candidates were invited to write a Letter to the Neighborhood Blog and all responded and all are posted in order of submission.

To the Citizens of Redmond,

Hello, I am John Marchione and I am running for Mayor of Redmond.

When I was four years old, my parents chose Redmond to raise their family. Since then, Redmond and I have grown up together.

When I was 5, I started kindergarten at the brand new Ben Rush Elementary.

When I was 8, I played baseball on the newly improved Hartman Park fields.

When I was 13, McDonald’s and Wendy’s opened in town.

When I was 16, SR 520 came all the way to downtown Redmond.

Debbie and I married at St. Jude’s in Redmond and chose to raise our family here.

Coaching my son in baseball and daughter in soccer taught me the value of well maintained and safe parks.

As the founding Treasurer of the Lake Washington Schools Foundation, I have worked to support our public schools, which my two children attend.

Currently, I serve on the Redmond City Council and have worked to improve fire service, obtain a clean, safe water supply, and to manage our financial resources wisely.

Redmond is a great city, but it cannot rest on its laurels. We need to create an identity for downtown where people want to go to, not just go through. We need to connect our transportation and trails systems so we can move within our city. And we need to manage our financial resources wisely so we know what services we are buying with our tax dollars.

Redmond is no longer a bedroom community. We must shape the growth around us instead of allowing the growth to shape us. A proactive vision of the city and services we want will help ensure we enhance our quality of life. This is not a vision to encourage growth, but a plan to manage inevitable growth to keep Redmond great.

My top level management experience will make me an effective Mayor immediately. My ten years in local government and ten years as CFO of Meydenbauer Center have taught me the strong leadership skills needed to bring us together and move Redmond forward.

Our next Mayor must be a diplomat to work with our neighbors on regional issues. Our next Mayor must be dedicated and know the City like a childhood friend. Our next Mayor must have solid leadership and management skills.

I am that person. I bring the dedication, education and experience to move Redmond forward. I ask for your vote.

John Marchione

p.s. For more information on my vision for Redmond, or to contact me with any questions you might have, please visit my website: http://www.johnmarchione.com/