UPDATED: Evans Creek - Where is it? Where does it go? What went wrong?

OPINION:



click on the pics to enlarge









Can you guess where Evans Creek is in this picture?

Find a graphic satellite map HERE of Evans Creek running through the industrial park and connecting with Bear Creek. Can you find the confluence of Bear & Evans Creek on Keller Farm on the left of the map? Zoom in. Can you can find the stream culvert and creek banks?

Evans Creek is a important salmon-bearing stream located in SE Redmond. The picture on the right is the beginning of Evans Creek near the county - city border. This photo was taken on the historic Red Brick Road looking west. See the beaver dam? You pass over Evans Creek everytime you drive on Union Hill Road near 192nd Avenue NE, just south of the Red Brick Road. Another good landmark is Legacy Roofing.

In the photo on the left, Evans Creek is further downstream into the industrial park running through a pipe (culvert) under the gravel road. A small bridge over Evans Creek is marked by orange posts. The creek flows left (west) under the tiny bridge & parallel to NE 84th Street through this industrial business and several others. About a half mile downstream adjacent Millennium Park it connects with Bear Creek on Keller Farm.

Bear Creek and Evans Creek are state and city protected salmon-bearing streams. Federally endangered wild Chinook salmon run through the Evans Creek industrial area on their way to spawn upstream. I don't know how far they make it. Evans Creek is supposed to have a 150 -200 foot buffer but the industrial businesses on 84th Street have been grandfathered for scores of years with a 25 foot buffer. As you see from the left photos the 25-foot buffers have been ignored by the landowners and city. Trucks, junk and debris sit directly on top of the bank.

Without a buffer, the salmon and other in-stream critters and wildlife lose the natural "riparian" food and protections they would have received from trees, shrubs, logs, and spongy earthen banks. Every truck, car, and piece of junk on the stream bank contributes to polluted run-off into Evans. The city's Department of Natural Resources has a distant goal to re-locate Evans Creek north and away from the industrial park. The stream banks could be restored with 200 foot buffers. The business owners land values on NE 84th Street would increase, too, and redevelopment would be possible. If you want to send a message to the city about Evans Creek buffers contact Code Enforcement Officer Carl McArthy or Mayor John Marchione. "What went wrong" with the buffers was not Mayor John Marchione's doing. (In this photo, the creek runs right to left between the trucks/cars and the trees).

6/3/08 Planning Commission's report (currently under review by Council): "[The Planning Commission] did however, discuss the issue of how to address existing industrial users along Evans Creek and the Sammamish River. The Planning Commission acknowledged lands zoned for these users are limited, and it is appropriate to allow these structures to continue to operate and possibly expand under certain circumstances."
- 2007 Shoreline Master Program Update staff report is (here)
At the 6/3 council meeting, Councilman Cole mildly reasserted the Planning Commission's recommendations. Councilman Myers said he wasn't interested in the Shoreline plan going to court. Councilwomen McCormick & Allen discussed holding multiple study sessions. The Department of Ecology Hearing and final decision will be made by December 1, 2009. Comments can be sent to Cathy Beam, Redmond Environmental Principal Planner and David Pater, State Ecology Shoreline Planning Manager. A statement by Mr. Pater is under "comments".

State Department of Ecology Website: Shoreline Master Program (SMP)
King County Website: Evans Creek Natural Area
If you or your friends and family are interested in taking a closer look at Evans Creek, the Water Tenders (a local nonprofit that cares about Bear Creek Basin), is sponsoring a car tour of the Evans Creek riparian corridor this Sunday afternoon, June 8. Please contact Bob Yoder (me) for details.

OPINION: The importance of "regionalism" to mitigating SR520 environmental impacts

Watershed Resource Inventory Area 8 (WRIA-8)

At last night's Council "study session" Council President McCormick and Mayor Marchione talked about the importance and relevance of "regionalism" to our city. Redmond officials appear to be "speaking with one voice" on Regional issues.

Mayor Marchione is an active member on the Sound Transit Board. I've watched him on TV. He is sharp and stands out as a leader. Councilmembers Richard Cole and Nancy McCormick have been active on the growth management issues of Puget Sound Regional Council. I think councilmembers Allen, Myers and Vache have worked on the regional issues of Human Services

Management of our watershed is regional, as well. The above WRIA 8 map demonstrates the extent of Redmond's connection with other cities in our regional "watershed area". Our watershed area extends from Everett south to Greater Auburn! It's used in large part by the state Department of Ecology to monitor salmon populations, water quality and flooding in our region.

Marchione represents Redmond in policy on the WRIA-8 committee. Jon Spangler (Redmond Public Works Stormwater Manager) is the active participant in regular meetings. Mr. Spangler recently facilitated a joint meeting with three agencies about SR520 impacts.

Last night, Mayor Marchione talked about the importance of the WRIA-8 committee to mitigating the environmental and flooding impacts of the SR520 expansion from 4 to 8 lanes. Endangered salmon and safety from flooding are the key issues.

A Bellevue official (with the help of Jean White, WRIA-8 manager) wrote a letter to Governor Gregoire requesting mitigation. Woodinville (and Redmond) citizen activists contributed significant flood data used in the letter.

Thus, Bellevue, Woodinville, other WRIA-8 cities all cared about what was impacting Redmond from the SR520 expansion. Woodinville and Redmond citizen activists created a groundswell. They wrote letters and sent a short video clip here and photos of the 12/3 flood to Rep. Ross Hunter, Chairman of Finance (and other key representatives.) Indeed, the effort was regional!

Ross was very concerned from the inputs and is taking action to fund $7M to meander Bear Creek away from the highway expansion. Rep. Hunter recently announced a TOWN HALL MEETING at Redmond City Hall on May 20, 6pm. I urge neighbors to attend Rep. Hunter's meeting in force to encourage or support possible approval of funding!

East Redmond Park & Trail Corridor Plan

Eastern Corridor Park Property Master Plan - "String of Pearls"

The City of Redmond Parks and Recreation recently held its first of two community workshops on our Eastern Corridor of parks and trails. Linkage of five creek-lined, parks with trails and ideas for "best uses" were discussed. Parks planner, Linda Frkuska facilitated the meeting stating: "This collection of Parks is a tremendous asset to Redmond and we want to make sure we are shaping them for the people that will use and enjoy them.". The Eastern Corridor parks, from north to south, are Juel Community Park, Ferrel-McWhirter, Conrad Olson, Perrigo and Arthur Johnson. Approximately 20 citizens attended, including councilmembers Nancy McCormick and briefly, Hank Margeson. Hank was past Vice-chair of the Parks Commission. Hank's family enjoys the Pony Club at Ferrel-McWhirter and soccer fields at Perrigo. Three citizen interest groups were noticeably present:

• Equestrian interests - horse trails at Juel and Perrigo; preference for soft trails; a covered arena at Farrel-McWhirter; signage to warn mountain bikers near the Avondale-PS trail.
• Bear and Evans Creek natural area interests - pervious, narrower trails; attention to the preserving the natural environment; environmental education; trail location & best use.
• Sports interests - Cricket use of Juel Park. Disc golf at Juel. Mountain biking clubs did not attend.

Guy Mikelson, a Seattle consultant of Berger Partnership, led discussion by suggesting three themes for the eastern corridor: 1) history, 2) environmental, 3) "linear arboretum" . Bear and Evans Creek riparian habitat touches all five parks and is the signature piece connecting all parks. Historical buildings add interest and possible uses by "artists in residence" and heritage exhibits.

Miguel Llanos, Redmond Historical Vice President, recommended signage along the future connecting trail to explain the area’s natural (salmon and other wildlife) and human (Native Americans, loggers, farmers) heritage. He suggested the historic Conrad Olsen barn, Juel house and Perrigo Park barn as possible locations for heritage displays and a quasi-museum.

Citizens having interests in using this corridor should contact the Parks Commission or a staff. A final meeting will be held on Thursday, June 5th, 7pm, Old Redmond School House Community Center. Public is invited.  

-- Bob Yoder & Richard Morris, Education Hill neighborhood

Attention City Council: Please make mental health services a Budget Priority on April 24th!

During last night's city meeting, council approved $40,000 to fund a consultant to help Redmond Human Services prepare a 5-year Human Services Strategic Plan. The purpose of the plan is "to develop a vision and direction that will help the City make informed and proactive decisions to address short-term and long-term human services". The funding was proposed by Mr. Mayor during the "Consent Agenda."

Councilwoman President McCormick asked for assurances the public be involved during the strategic planning process. A day after the meeting Human Services revealed a short plan that included the public in the process.

According to Mr. Mayor Marchione, the contract "would cover how the city would work with non-profit services providers to deliver shelter, food, medical and other services. "

I personally hope our new consultant will pay more attention to the needs of the mentally ill and those recovering from brain disorders. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, "it is has been shown that 1 in 5 families experience a serious mental illness in a given year."

Two invaluable support services for caregivers and recovering citizens are located in or near the City of Redmond. NAMI-Eastside for caregivers and peer support and The Hero House for recovering citizens desiring social and occupational support. Citizens are encouraged to participate.

Last year, both nonprofits were ranked 2nd Tier during Redmond's budgeting process. Past councilman Robinson was Council Chair of Parks and Human Services at the time. Councilman Hank Myers is Council Chair of Parks and Human Services this year. Mental health and caregiver services should be prioritized for Tier 1 funding in 2008.

NAMI-Eastside is located in the Family Resource Center and The Hero House is in Bellevue on Redmond's easterm border. NAMI-Eastside's enthusiastic office manager, Barbara Thompsen, can be reached at info@nami-eastside.org. The Hero House Manager, Erica Horn eagerly awaits your emails at ehorn@herohouse.org.

I hope the City Council and Mayor will raise the bar during our "Budgeting for Priorities" Public Meeting,on April 2 at 6:30pm, City Hall...to further the invaluable services of NAMI-Eastside and The Hero House in our community.

Bob Yoder, co-author
Ed. Hill neighborhood

cc: council & mayor

Attn: Boomers - Where in Redmond will our children and parents live when they need housing?

Housing availability for families in Redmond is approaching crisis levels for those who don't have the higher income tech or professional related jobs. This is especially true for our children seeking their first home or apartment and for Seniors over the age of 75. Believe it or not, the population of baby boomer's parents are the fastest growing demographic in Redmond, yet they (and their grandchildren) have the smallest disposable income! Unless we do something to create affordable family housing, many Redmond's young adults and seniors may have to move or abandon their plans to live with their families in Redmond.

Reasonable access to housing is perhaps even more severe for the blue collar worker, low tech worker or lower paid professionals like teachers and salesmen. Already many of these working families are commuting from Monroe, Kent, and other outlying cities to service Redmond residents. As the price of oil increases to $100/barrel will they be able to afford their commute? Growth in Redmond and services could slow and even suffer from lack of workers.

I remember ex-mayor Ives once envisioning Redmond evolving into "another Stamford, Connecticut" where most residents are affluent and and serviced by surrounding communities and extensive mass transit. Do we want our city to be like another Stamford -- lacking in economic diversity?

Last Tuesday, the Planning Commissioners, Council and Mayor tried to address some of these issues. Mayor Marchione stated that we can't solve the worker-commute problem just by building roads and mass transit. Mayor Marchione encouraged staff, council and planning commission to work with Arthur Sullivan, Program Manager of ARCH (our eastside housing department) to create affordable family housing inside Redmond. Adding affordable housing inside Redmond would also help to reduce the traffic congestion problem!

We are certainly not having a problem building $1 million homes AND those homes will need services! 800 million $ homes will soon be built at Redmond Ridge East. 3500 expensive new housing units are scheduled for Redmond Ridge and 3000 expensive units are scheduled in North Redmond over the next 5-10 years. We need to make sure ARCH gets the support it needs to facilitate modest housing for the service workers we need IN Redmond!

ARCH has already funded 737 housing units for Redmond from their multi-city ARCH Trust Fund. Over $6M in Trust Funds have been dedicated to Redmond families and residents in need of housing support. If you have friends or family looking for affordable condos and houses click here: http://www.archhousing.org/ownership/owner_ops_text.html.

Councilmembers Cole, McCormick, Vache and Allen were all pleased with how Redmond has led the Region through efforts of ARCH. Council will decide during their next meeting to approve by consent $65000 for the Trust Fund to build transitional housing for foster-children. How would you vote? Decent priced housing for decent people & workers is something we certainly need! Comments?

The ARCH website is http://www.archhousing.org/.

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

OPINION: 7/19/07 Shaughnessy Heights PRD - longest land-use plat review in Redmond history

OPINION

/17/07 - Last night's citizen appeal to council of the Shaughnessy Heights, 15.1 acre 42-lot development adjacent Redmond El. will go down in the history books. It was the longest running plat review in city history - much owing to our PRD (Planned Residential Use) policy allowing for clear-cuts and greater densities.
The proposed development of approximately 42 lots (including duplexes) is serviced by one road in&out adjacent Redmond Elementary School. Deforestation and loss of habitat would occur almost in size of Perrigo Heights.

Though traffic safety and habitat issues came up, the two main legal issues were about tree buffering and adequate water service to the nearby neighborhoods. After much discourse the Council decided 7-0 to deny the permit and uphold the appeal of six citizens; and remand the appeal back to the Hearing Examiner to allow a second, open Public Hearing.
Six citizens appealed, led persuasively by S. Howard and J. Richardson. Public Notification deficiencies were again, a major source of dissent. The Hearing Examiner did not allow scores of citizens to appeal in writing owing to a technicality. Alert citizens purchased audio tapes of the Hearing Examiner's appeal hearing to have proof for their case. Councilwoman Kim Allen asked that a comprehensive letter be written to the Hearing Examiner advising changes in his Party of Record policy.
Problems with the City's Planned Residential Development (PRD) permit resurfaced. Citizens were very upset that a line of trees buffering their neighborhood from the development would be stripped. The trees would provide a valuable buffer from seven proposed towering new homes. Councilman Vache empathized since Mosaic Meadows project impacts his property in a similar fashion.
The developer claimed he was technically meeting city requirements for significant tree count and pervious soils by accounting for it though the parcel's "native growth easement". ("Native growth easements" is land that can't be developed because of steep slopes, ravines, streams, etc.) Thus, the developer claimed he should be allowed to strip out the neighboring buffer trees claiming them unsafe.
The neighborhood citizens countered saying their trees would not be safe with concerns for quality of life.Allen, Marchione, and Vache, offered impressive analysis and decision-making. But, Council President McCormick's hallmark statement warrants quotation.
After thanking Ms. Allen for articulating the case so well, Council President Ms. Nancy McCormick movingly stated:

"The public process may not have been violated but it was twisted. I can't keep from thinking about that couple who appeared at the Tent City public meeting and signed up to be Party of Record only to be denied on appeal to be heard.

The public needs accurate information and timeliness of an appeal, otherwise we make a mockery out of Public Hearings and caring about public involvement."
Ms. McCormick's motion to deny and uphold the appeal passed unanimously. The public is invited to review the project once again.
10/8/07 SUMMARY COMMENTS FROM TWO APPELLANTS NEIGHBORING THE PROJECT; The neighborhood appealants 'lost' to the landowner.
NEIGHBOR Ian -
The disappointing thing in my mind is that we had to put forth a very large amount of effort to secure the condition that adds this new buffer, when I feel that the city should have been the one putting that requirement into place from the beginning. Somehow the city didn’t even know that the right of way had no trees in it, even though there’s a sewer line running down it, which means they would have cleared it at some point of trees to put in that line.
Codes such as what Kirkland has in place are really the only good way to go about preserving mature trees. Even if we could have gotten the developer to leave the strip of trees along the border, I don’t think I would want them to do so, given that they’d be clearing out all the trees behind them, exposing that strip to new wind forces that could bring them down on my house. Kirkland’s codes on the other hand would have prevented the clearing of significant trees behind the strip as well, preserving the wind break and forcing developers to build around existing trees. Now, for all I know, Kirkland may also have similar development programs like the PLAT which allow developers to use different rules as long as they meet some criteria, but I know that at least the starting point for Kirkland development projects is more tree friendly than what we have here in Redmond.
However, given that we can’t protect the large trees along that strip, and that we can’t really stop the development outright, I think we’ve managed to secure the next best thing: a new buffer of trees to be planted along that boundary which meets our requirements for screening, in exchange for our support of the project going forward (no more appeals basically, and an email voicing that support to the city now that the new condition is in place).
-Ian. 10/8/07
From Steve Howard: We could never stop the developer from taking the big trees, since the city allows the tree numbers to be measured over the entire site. Or in other words it gives the developer a license to clear cut the land where they plan on putting the new houses. I would love to see a way to require that 35% of the trees must remain across the site. including the building area. The present codes and how they are read allows the developers to play a math game with our mature trees receiving no protection. This is wrong. 10/8/07

4/7/07 - Council rejects downtown rezone of manufacturing parcel

4/07, Update - Council rejects downtown residential rezoning of manufacturing parcel
Well, the full council was in session this week and they voted 5-2 to keep "Marymoor East Square" zoned manufacturing and reject the landowner's request for residential development.
Allen and Robinson were the dissenting votes and favored rezoning the property to residential or condominiums. The planning commission voted 5-2 with McCarthy and Querry the two votes for commercial. (vote is being confirmed).

This is a big deal because this vote represents a big piece in the city's strategy as to where they want to concentrate our housing density. It looks like building density in our neighborhoods has greater priority than density downtown. Too bad, because this prioritization is not logical from many viewpoints.

Councilmember Robinson named a few: 1) traffic congestion has been proven to increase the further housing is from the workplace. 2) 12,000 Microsoft workers (plus the multiplier) will migrate into Redmond within 10 years and we are already fighting an imbalance between homes and jobs. Marymoor East offers a housing opportunity we can't afford to pass up. 3) With the high price of land in Redmond there is no indication of a "land rush" for office park space even for high-tech or R&D.

Councilmember Allen concluded that residential is compatible and appropriate in Marymoor East owing to:

1) residential property is located right across the street,

2) a children's gymnasium is in walking distance,

3) a nearby trail leads right to Marymoor Park,

4) the land is expensive for manufacturing ; manufacturing space in Kent and Auburn is approximately .40/sf versus .90/sf to 1.10/sf in Redmond. The Marymoor Park East side of Redmond has been idle for over a year with no takers .

5) a wetland 'amenity' is on the 3 acre property.

The council majority thought different: Cole decided we would be "plopping" residential into the wrong place and would drive out manufacturing, what little we have. Marchione said lowering the supply would increase the cost of manufacturing and he said the Square was "an island" removed from "downtown".

Resha was as concerned as Robinson and Allen about the housing/jobs imbalance but he said manufacturing is part of what makes Redmond , Redmond. McCormick iterated from the last study session her conclusion that "we have met our housing targets" and we don't need or want downtown residential density at this time.

On several occasions Cole reminded Council of the large increase in land value the Chee's would benefit from in a rezone. Mr. Chee is a Korean immigrant and I believe his son runs the property business. They attended every planning commission and council meeting and spoke up during Items from the Audience. We are fortunate to have the Chees as business persons in Redmond. And shouldn't they rightly deserve to benefit from developing latent property as would any other developer that sticks their neck out? e.g. Camwest's Kempin rezone approval.

Councilman Jim Robinson was so upset and surprised by the 5-2 vote that he recommended Mr. Chee to get a good lawyer, confident Mr Chee he would win.

It's unfortunate we can't build housing density in the downtown area, a logical location and alternative to neighborhood open space. It's not like anyone is lining up to the site from that part of Redmond to build manufacturing. There have been no takers. And we need smart housing choices.

As Councilwoman Kimberly Allen summarized, "The real losers were the Chees--they are stuck with a nostalgia vote to maintain the manufacturing label on their property at all cost--even if no one wants to site new manufacturing concerns in [that part of] Redmond. If this [council] majority were voting on it, we would still have hitching posts and a feed store in downtown Redmond even though the last horse left years ago." 4/19/07
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5/6/07: UPDATE: CHARLIE McCARTHY, PLANNING COMMISSIONER ASKED COUNCIL ON 4/5/07 TO RECONSIDER THEIR 5-2 VOTE AGAINST RESIDENTIAL. HE THOUGHT THAT IT MAY HAVE BEEN A MISTAKE TO VOTE FOR MANUFACTURING BECAUSE THAT AREA SHOULDN'T HAVE BEEN ZONED MANUFACTURING IN THE FIRST PLACE. HE URGED COUNCIL TO "DO THE RIGHT THING". HE THOUGHT IT WAS A POOR PLACE FOR TRADITIONAL MANUFACTRUING.

One of the 5 majority councilmenbers must change their vote to allow reconsideration. Charlie was one of two commissioners voting FOR manufacturing earlier. Querry was the 2nd.

12/18/06, Will Resha and McCormick lead on CIP?

6/14/07 - FINAL UPDATE - SEE BOTTOM - YES Mr. Resha did lead. Thank you, John.
Updated on 1/9/07 - see bottom
Updated on 4/27/07 - bottom of blog
My intent is to address with specifics the cheap, symbolic, budget cuts several councilmembers have dreamt up to try to fill a $2.8M gap left from the failed levie lid lift vote. Can you believe city officials would go so low as to cut "Derby Days" and "Redmond Lights" for a quick fix? It' appears it's their way of 1) "getting back" at the electorate for the levy defeat, 2) "proving their seriousness" for fire and police deficiencies, 3) distracting the public from scores of millions of dollars of idle long term unallocated cash reserves 4) last minute budget 'planning' and 5) dealing with their guilt of over-spending on City Hall.
The new City Hall will ultimately cost us $70M over 30 years. How could these officials (with the exception of Ms. Allen and Mr. Robinson) be so remiss in their planning to now call for $300,000 in cultural program cuts to fill their gap? It doesn't have to be this way.Mayor, Councilmembers Jim Robinson and Kim Allen say cuts aren't required this year or next if we re-work our long term capital allocations. Cole, Vasche, Resha, Marcione and McCormick think otherwise. Resha is re-working the CIP (Capital Improvemnent Plan) for a new proposal in January. Will Mr. Resha reassess and bring new perspective to the table? Will Council President McCormick adjust and lead?
Stay tuned.
1/15/07 update: In last week's review of the CIP, John led the discussion. With $32M in unallocated capital funds (that can be used for non-capital operations) John suggested the Admininstration (mayor) allocate unused 5% transfers to areas of more immediate needs, like parks. The Mayor side-stepped and the rest of council was mute. The failure of the city to negotiate for the Perrigo Heights forest was still too fresh for them. Thanks for trying, John and thanks for your public service. We will miss you on council.
1/9/07 update: In the Council Study Session tonight, Mr. Resha boldly demonstrated open-mindedness, flexibility and resolve to allow the council-at-large time to thoroughly study C.I.P. options. He formed a sub-committee with Ms. Allen and Mr. Marchione to study and and review C.I.P (capital budget) options. Stay tuned.
4/27/update: BIG BREAKTHROUGH on how council is starting to think about and utilize our CIP - capital fund program. Council President Nancy McCormick demonstrated her power at this week's study session on their proposed August, 2007 levy lid lift. She is recommending tapping into the wealthy CIP to fund maintenance & operations (M&O) for parks... This act alone would lower the proposed parks levy assessement from 10 cents to 5 cents !! At $121,000/penny assessement the levy would be reduced by $605,000, if I have my numbers right. Thank you, Nancy! Mr. Resha changed his mind and agreed with Robinson, Allen (the leader), Vache, and Marchione.

9/6/2006, Citizen Guide to City of Redmond Government

The photo is of City of Redmond, WA council members of the year 2006: John (Pat) Vache, Kimberly Allen, John Marchione, Jim Robinson, John Resha, Nancy McCormick

(Pres.), Richard Cole.

My entry today is in memory of my Dad and his good works for his community. September 28 is the birthday of my father, Joseph D. Yoder, Jr., an appointed & elected 'city councilman', Public Works Committee, Village of Tequesta, Florida.

Council members get paid about $800/month. I'm guessing they may put in 25 hours of work a week, maybe more. The "council core" is McCormick, Cole, and Robinson. They have been members for over 20 years each. Nancy McCormick, past planning commissioner, from Montana, is President of council. Pat Vache is Vice President. Mr. Richard Cole is a past planning commissioner and was Council President prior to Ms. McCormick and lives in North Redmond.

Vice President Vache goes back to the days when the Planning Commission was first formed in Redmond. During Mayor Himes term he supported keeping the Redmond Golf Course. He was appointed by the Mayor in 2003 and elected in 2006. He works at a small business and lives off of NE 116th Street, a view corridor. He avidly supports the development community, as does Cole and McCormick.

Councilman Jim Robinson is slightly moderate. I've revised my opinion on his stance on growth. He is definitely pro-growth though did vote against the "steep-slope exception" which allows utilities on steep slopes. He was on the Sensitive Area Ordinance CAC years ago. At the Critical Area Ordinance Public Hearing he motioned to keep the wetland buffers to remain unchanged -- narrow. (No one seconded).

Jim works in a cubicle for Boeing in procurement as a financial analyst and is proud of his worldly travels. He lives in the View Point Neighborhood adjacent to Marymoor Park. Among Mr. Robinson's contributions to the city are close relationships with Mayor Ives and her staff....dedication and intellect. He appears sensitive to the "green" element but as Council Park's Chair he did not push to negotiate for Perrigo Heights acquisition.

I think Jim was first on council to acknowledge global warming. Jim voted against the financing scheme for the new City Hall. He labeled City Hall art "razor blades" and lost support of the Arts Commission Co-Chair.

Planning commissioners Charlie McCarthy and Martin Snodgrass, strong pro-growth planning commissioners, have endorsed Jim in his run for Mayor. Planning commissioners Parnell and Querry endorsed Jim; Parnell, McCarthy, and Snodgrass voted against the designation "Riparian Habitat of Local Importance". Mayor Ives recently endorsed Mr. Robinson, as well as Mr. John Couch, 30-year Parks Director. With the exception of Ms. Allen, it appears THE OLD GUARD is backing Jim in his race for Mayor.

Mr. Cole is a retired Boeing CPA and tends to be the council penny pincher. His values of pragmatism, frugality, and independent thought. Unfortunately, Cole's decision-making skills often compromise and his decisions can be abrupt. Mr. Cole is resourceful and considers himself a nerd on news. An autocrat by nature he can be unbending and single-minded during deliberations, especially with Rosemarie present. He is pro-growth.

With the Microsoft agreement to accommodate 12000 new workers to Redmond within the next ten years it is impossible for any candidate not to accept growth. 

Ms. Nancy McCormick is retired from the insurance business with strong connections to business, though she plays the neighborhood advocate well and does care. Years ago, Nancy was a planning commissioner. Her ego will occasionally rise up and overshadow planning and park commission advice.

MISC: Cole and Vache are on the Board of the Chamber of Commerce. Cole and McCormick both have strong survival instincts and attentiveness to the people. Cole and McCormick have been the target of divisive criticism from Mayor Rosemarie Ives. Robinson has a good sense of humor and wit and Marchione will make you chuckle occasionally. A good sense of humor goes a LONG way during boring government meetings, especially if you watch as many as I.

Messrs. Marchione, Resha, and Ms. Allen all live on Education Hill and are the junior councilmembers with Allen being elected in 2006.  

Ms. Allen was a highly respected planning commissioner by her peers and the mayor and was an attorney from Scottsdale a few years back. She is a moderate, a "compromiser" and more than any councilmember has fresh ideas about how and why to involve the public in decision-making. She has the ability to get to the root of an issue and get beyond 'ego'.

Mr. John Resha is a bright, young, complex council member enthusiastic about his role. He withdrew from the 2007 Election citing need for quality family time. He plans to continue public service. He promotes public engagement.

Mr. Resha's neighborhood was negatively impacted last year when a short plat with towering homes was constructed with only a 5 foot setback from the neighborhood backyards. Sadly, his neighborhood view corridor was destroyed along with backyard privacy. A For Sale sign is on his property (6/07). Though Mr. Resha dislikes regulation, It's too bad Mr. Resha's neighborhood didn't have the same opportunity as N. Redmond CAC to regulate the "look and feel" standards for their community. It's possible Mr. Resha carries some "baggage" to the dais on certain neighborhood issues, perhaps as a result of this neighborhood design flaw.

Mr. Resha is an "expert" on transportation issues and works for a "traffic association" (WSDOT?) - He was Parks Chair during the Perrigo Heights march and 3.5 acre acquisition. I think John adds a valuable perspective to the Council and works hard with creativity, smarts and compassion for Redmond and the neighborhoods. John announced June, 2007 he would not run for a second council term. John spearheaded a new land-use Public Notice policy measure to improve neighborhood awareness of land-use process.

Mr. John Marchione is an amiable, bright first-time councilman. He has been very active in Hartman Park Little League with his family. I think he was past President of the league. John has been CFO of the Meydenbauer Center for 10 years. He is influenced by the development community however chooses to proactively shape growth rather than "be shaped". John is a leader on city finance and budget issues and currently Council Chair of Finance. John is probably the most capable candidate for managing staff and keeping costs in line. Burnstead and the and Eastside Business Assoc. endorse him as well as the neighborhoods. He supports the intersection light at 104th & 166th but appears undecided about the re-channelization of 166th. Ms. Vache is his campaign manager with Cole & McCormick & Resha & Vache supporting him in his bid for Mayor. Council candidates Margeson, Conlin, and Carson endorse John. Marchione has strong regional presence.

Marchione is a Board Member of the Cascade Water Alliance -- an important muli-jurisdictional organization responsible for assuring our water supply in years to come. The mayors of Kirkland, Bellevue and Duvall endorse John. Mayor Ives does not. Like his mother, past-Mayor Doreen Marchione, John has strong "administrative" skill sets. I think his degree is in Public Administration. Of bureaucratic bent (job, education) Mr. Marchione is appearing more involved in contributing to outcomes of cultural initiatives. He appears to make decisions and "vision" by exploring the collective inputs of Redmond's diverse citizenry. John leads by consensus-building. He style is "management- decision-maker" rather than the "charismatic-delegation-style" of Mayor Ives.

Honorable Councilwoman Kim Allen kallen@redmond.gov is the cities newest council member. (6/07). She was supported by Rosemarie Ives during her Election a couple years back. Last time I checked, Ms. Allen was endorsing Mr. Robinson. Kimberly is a lawyer and she is smart. Kim moved up from Scottsdale, AZ about six years ago. She was a leader on the Planning Commission for a few years and was endorsed by all 6 commissioners in her run for council. (Mayor Ives appointed the commissioners and council approved). Ms. Allen is a strong advocate for any citizen that speaks up for the betterment of the city.

One of Allen's goals is to upgrade our city website. My Neighborhood blog probably wouldn't exist without her encouragement. She is a strong defender of Citizen Advisory Committees. She is upset with the "blanket" land-use zoning 12 years ago that led to the Perrigo Heights, Avondale Crest, and Tyler Creek project mistakes. Kim is a strong advocate for reworking city Public Notice policy to improve public participation in land-use project. I could easily go on about all the good Kim has brought to Redmond in only 2-years.

Ms. Holly Plackett has been one of Redmond's most dedicated public servants over recent years. She was a Redmond planning commissioner for 6 years and councilwoman for 4 years. She lost her council seat when running unsuccessfully against Mayor Ives in the Election prior to 2007. She wants to make staff support and information more accessible to council than Mayor Ives did. Holly wants to restore trust in the Administration. She wants an audit of the city books. She is pro-neighborhood wanting citizens involved before decisions are made. Holly has no desire to raise taxes on small businesses. She is probably the most "GREEN" . She has issues with Planned Residential Permits. However, with the Microsoft Agreement requiring accommodation of 12,000 new workers to Redmond, Holly will have to make significant personal concessions to growth, if elected mayor. Holly lives in the Grasslawn Neighborhood and works at a Redmond bank. Probably, her strongest asset is "citizen advocate" and persistence to serve.

The Planning Commissioners planningcommission@redmond.gov are some of the most informed, dedicated, tactful, and challenging (!) group of Redmond citizens I've attended many of their meetings in city hall. The don't get paid. I have great admiration for our Planning Commission. They are incredibly hard workers, good listeners, and can be quite entertaining when a delicate situation needs to be settled. Occasionally confusing and time-wasting "Code-speak" appears to be used to keep the viewing public confused and content "off the record". It is important to note all Commissioners and Boards are appointed by "a" mayor and approved by "a" Council so they are under their influence! They're kind of like judges. And, I would ere not to acknowledge the city staff support, Sarah Stiteler and Terry Marpert.

Other Commissions and Boards get less public exposure than the Planning Commission. If fact, sometimes it seems city staff get more public attention than the Mayor's appointed Arts and Parks commissioners. Arts Commission is contacted at rac@redmond.gov . Parks Board is reached at parkboard@redmond.gov. Public and council exposure has been on the upswing this year. Arts commissioners hold 3 meetings/year on RC-TV 21 and Parks commissioners presented the 2007 and levy proposal with great success.

Recently, I've seen Lori & Martin Snodgrass presenting to Council on several occasions. They are strongly aligned with Mayor Ives and her staff and endorse Robinson for Mayor. This intelligent and dedicated 'Snodgrass citizen-team' have given countless years of public service in representing Redmond citizens (and elected). It is my understanding, Lori has chaired the Parks & Recreation Board of Commissioners for years; and ran for Council office. I think Lori is retiring from the commission after 9 years of service. (6/07) And, it is my understanding, 'Marty' has been a planning commissioner for years and Chair of the commission for over 6 years. The 'Snodgrass dynasty' is one that will be remembered.

Planning commissioner Charlie McCarthy persuasively represents the development community interests and endorses Robinson for Mayor. He is 101% pro-growth. My comment: Growth means jobs and jobs are good, as long as it is proactively controlled and approved within reasonable design standards and with regard to citizen values, affordability, and quality of life. The Microsoft Agreement is a growth engine without a "governor". We are "out of control". Mega-houses consume land and resources for the few and must downsize to make the best use of developable land for all.  Higher density development of the downtown is under-utilized.

It wouldn't be fair not to acknowledge Mr. Richard Grubb, past city councilman, present city activist. He is an advocate for citizens needing help on protesting problem land-use projects and outspoken like Cole.  

STAFF: Speaking of "the top", the Acting Director of Public Works, Mr. Bill Campbell bcampbell@redmond.gov career responsibilities advanced on MARCH, 2007 when Mr. Rhodes retired. Mr. Campbell is co-anchoring with Mr. Rob Odle, Planning Director, the powerful Land Use Technical Committee that makes all the major land use decisions (other than appeals to council & the state supreme court). Mr. Odle is the "Code Administrator" giving him powerful latitude to interpret our Development Guide ordinances according to staff and the Mayor's needs. Mr. Odle is "The Administrator" of all proposed development project. Senior Staff, like Steve Fischer, would coin him the "queen bee" while Steve is just a "worker bee" carrying out the decisions of his superiors. Judd Black, development manager is "the point man" all most land-use hearings (appeal and public). He is "the defender" of the technical committee and of the developer. The Assistant Planner, Jim Roberts wears many hats but appears to be the "dealer" or negotiator between the city and the developers. He manages the Development Dept. Jim has an expressive, likable outgoing personality, but there is little question his job description is to "keep the growth engine revved".  Mr. Roberts interviewed me 3 times about Public Notice inadequacies but took little change-action.

Public Works is the largest city department per budget dollars, # of employees. Mr. Rob Odle, Planning and Development Director, lives in Redmond in the N. Avondale area. Mr. Odle has strong regional presence and is responsive to citizen comment. He was promoted from Policy Planning Manager in 2005. rodle@redmond.gov [under construction for thee 2007 election]

By Bob Yoder
updated, 2/8/2011