REDUX: Redmond Junior High 166th Avenue safety improvements

At last night's council meeting, the Council and Mayor gave "the green light" to road safety improvements on 166th Ave adjacent Redmond Junior High. The present 4 lanes will be re-channeled to 3 lanes, wider sidewalks, with bike lanes.

The Mayor is working with LWSD authorities to reconfigure the RJH parking lots to improve circulation. Construction is not not planned for completion until the first quarter of 2009. This is right during the school year. The delay is attributed to ordering light poles for 104 & 166 intersection. The rechannelization will probably be done first to convenience students, parents, and vehicular traffic.

Council felt confident in approving construction owing to the positive survey results at the last RJH public informational meeting. "100 citizens showed up" and 74 completed surveys. With the exception of one* survey question participants were positive about the improvements. *41% of those surveyed felt it would be more difficult to merge onto 166th Ave. The survey found most wanted rechannelization extended to NE 100th Street.

The February 7 Community Meeting SURVEY RESULTS on 166th improvments are listed here. If you were unable to attend the meeting how would you respond to this survey? Interestingly, 20 of 74 surveys were mailed in after the meeting. Can we assume the surveys were completed soley by community meeting residents?

Several councilmembers and the Mayor appear to prefer to rechannel 166th all the way down the hill to 85th, but they want to wait until the residents become comfortable with the RJH road safety improvments first. Councilman Pat Vache stated Redmond already has several 4:3 conversions showing rechannelization works and has safety benefits.

Some concerns about the rechannelization of 166th Ave. were voiced by a few citizens after the public meeting: 1) fencing is too close to 166th and impedes line-of-site. 2) during the AM commute cars may back up to NE 100th St. and make it impossible to turn left. Also, some drivers actually get out of their car now on 100th St. to punch the crosswalk light button. Will a timed light be programed at 100th?

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/.

Proposed Red-Wood Road improvements don't make sense

Opinion: Council has spent several sessions listening to staff's proposal to widen Red-Wood (202) from two lanes to five lanes. This five-lane "improvement" would extend from 124th St. south to 160th Ave for all of 1.5 miles. Two of the new lanes would be HOV. The third must be for bike lanes and sidewalks?

Now, how is this "improvement" supposed to help traffic? The HOV lanes end after only 1.5 miles! Commuters would find their movement constricted if not grounded in a "parking lot". Councilman Pat Vache called the improvement a 1.5 mile "boa constrictor". Councilwoman Allen agreed. I think most councilmembers felt the road should be expanded to three lanes, not five.

A juggernaut is the 109th Street & 154th Place intersection. Staff insisted the intersection was not up to standards, especially for the southbound right turn. Click link for map of Red-Wood Intersection at 109th St. and 154th

To expand out an additional 3 lanes would cause hardship to property owners near Gateway natural buffers of green trees and byrnes would be clipped and replaced with concrete sound barriers. So, staff was asked to go back to the drawing boards --I hope to design a 3-lane solution.

Councilman Hank Margeson in his ever-humble assessment recommended Willows Road as a better prospect for moving traffic. Transit uses Willows Rd. and and it's easier to enlarge than 202. Mayor Marchione wants to keep 202 a neighborhood road, though I think that's a council decision. How many want 5 lanes? Raise your hands!

High stormwater utility rates under review by council

Two weeks ago past councilman Richard Grubb spoke to council during an "Items from the Audiance talk" about the high costs of stormwater management in Redmond. He was concerned that stormwater fees have increased from $3.00/month in 1988 to $16.56 today.

Granted, stormwater treatment helps to remove sediments and pollutants from run-off before it gets into Bear creek and the Sammamish River. In addition, the city uses stormwater fees & grants to pay for stream and wetland restoration projects for new developments and along Bear & Evans Creek and the Sammamish River. Expensive retention ponds have recently be intalled along the Evans Creek industrial basin. In additon, I think fees have been applied to permit approvals and preservation of Keller Farm wetlands. Keller Farm wetlands are vital to aquifer recharge. Our aquifer supplies 40% of our drinking water. Meandering our waterways to control floods and preserve fish habitat is also funded through stormwater fees & grants.
It is clear, the city really does care about flood mitigation, safety of our drinking water, protection of endangered salmon, and the "swimmability" of Lake Sammamish and the slough. But, as Councilman Hank Margeson stated at the last council meeting -- a 452% stormwater rate increase over 20 years is something to look at. Mr. Margeson is Chair of the Planning and Public Works Committee. It meets the 2nd Thursday of the month at 4:30 pm in the room off of city hall chambers. Hank's committee has responsibility for looking at stormwater treatment issues.

Besides protections of our natural resources and environment stormwater fees will be used to help pay for the new $40 million Regional Treatment facility planned for the Downtown. In 2007 our residential stormwater rate increased by $6.58 to $16.56/single family home just to pay for the Regional facility. Did you notice this on your utility bill last year? According to Mr. Spangler in a 7/25/07 King County meeting, stormwater fees are about 2x those of Seattle.

The city's rational for this 40% increase is "everyone benefits" from the regional stormwater system since about 90% of all treated residential stormwater eventially drains into the Sammamish River. Councilman Pat Vache had concerns about maintenence of private facilities . Maintenance of commercial facilities is "code enforced" and paid by rate fees, according to J. Roetemyer, stormwater engineer. Public Works Director Campbell wasn't clear about maintenance by Homeowners Associations' facilities being "code enforced".

According to Mr. Jon Spangler, city Stormwater Manager, the complete facility will be built by 2011 -12 and have the capacity to ultimately treat 500 acres of future downtown development. Presently, 32.5 acres are developed and will be serviced regionally.

Drivers be aware - a major regional trunk-line on Redmond Way will be built by 2009. You can find the regional stormwater facility MAP "here".

I wrote a story on this in 8/30/07. You can find it on this blog's search engine by searching "spangler regional".

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

Redevelopment of Redmond Streets and Highways

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

.

Of a personal note:

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

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

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

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

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

8/15/06, Arts, Culture, and Public Engagement

my fourth post, written in 2006

CITY HALL - "SILVER THAW" - GATEWAYS - LOGOS - THE ARTS COMMISSION - OUR SALVATION

The overriding catalyst in the advancement of Redmond culture is public engagement.

Public "turnout" and citizen "activism", or participation, are the hallmarks of engagement. Recently, in a public meeting Mayor Ives proudly referred to "200" citizens turning out for the Transportation Management Plan (TMP). Perrigo Forest and Creek Corridor advocates cite "400-500" citizen woodland marchers.

When citizen participation ebbs the advancement of our culture stalls or veers off course. For example:

1) the new $40M City Hall and it's unfinished, mindless exterior artwork caught us by surprise.

2) regarding the scattered, eclectic, haphazard grouping of landscape sculptures -- should a glossy marketing brochure posted in parking lots be the answer to an incoherent theme?

3) Art Hill appears but a graveyard, to bury the "over kill" of art aquisition. The Ives Administration accumulated 100 pieces (or was it 300?) - so much stuff it had to be mapped by GPS.

3) Then, the unexpected, sudden appearance of a contemporary new City "hidden heron" LOGO. Where did THAT come from?

4) Will our city "Gateway entrances" and "Innovative Housing" be next to fall to ego and government-citizen disconnect? Together, we will advance our culture and make Redmond a better place to live; separate and alone, we falter and drift.

CITY HALL & "SILVER THAW": The above photo is of our new city hall and it's controversial exterior artwork "Silver Thaw", crafted by Ed Carpenter a Portland artist. This outdoor art was funded through our extremely generous 1% "capital improvement building fee." The city hall receptionist explained the artwork was co-selected by Wright / Runstad (contractor and owner of 'our' new city hall) AND the Arts Commission. City Council approved the selection. Question. - where were WE (public) during the selection process for 'Silver Thaw' and the City Hall design? Obviously, we were not engaged. Council President, Nancy McCormick had some words about a citizen "city design workshop" gathering years ago. Nancy didn't document attendance so for all we know only a small gathering of a few 'unrelenting vocals' turned out for the design decision.

"Silver Thaw" has many other names. The artist envisioned his work as "ice crystals", best be served at night. The mayor said these crystals look like "pick-up sticks". My public works friend calls these sticks "scaffolding". An elected official looked at the "scaffolding" and saw "reeds in water", or was it weeds? Which ever the plant, the Art appeared invasive to me. Councilman Jim Robinson denounced these "invasive weeds" publicly calling them "razor blades". Dallas, my 5th-grade lunch buddy at first said the razors were "cool" then seconds later called it "crazy". He was being complementary?

Dallas and other children are amazingly very much aware of Redmond's outdoor art. He noticed the "wind spinner art" at Redmond El. Prior to the oval Heron LOGO - years ago - Jessica Bushmyer, an elementary student drew a winning circular LOGO sketch. The Ives Administration cast off our youth culture to a Madison Avenue advertising company for a City brand. Last week I noticed a colorful new gateway to Bainbridge Island from the ferry landing. The gateway fencing was colored with children's art. Not to forget, future generations will be living with 'our' decisions. Together we make Redmond better.

Except for the faulty design of city council chambers, I'm finding our new city hall is cozier and more citizen-friendly each day. The Hall's professional and informed receptionist lends to a friendlier, less intimidating atmosphere. She pointed to a large, soft area rug by the fireplace and some fascinating volunteer art on display in the foyer. The echoing voices bouncing from high ceiling walls are less noticeable. Yes, the exterior glitzy 'artwork' invades the Hall....hopefully, one day only a vestigial remnant.

My biggest gripe about the Hall design are the chambers for council, commissioner and hearing examiner meetings. The layout is NOT public friendly. Cameras and microphones are manipulated to control what is seen and who sees it. It is most clear, staff asserts their full powers here. Next time you watch Redmond City TV Channel 21, look at where the public faces when addressing the city officials. The table seating is so poorly arranged that we public must talk to the BACKS of our audience. This seating layout is rude, disrespectful and unfair to the speaking public and the sitting officials. Yet, you will find staff is "front and center" in full view at all times! Some visitors have suggested removing the front rows of audience chairs to fix the problem. But, wouldn't that be too easy?! Next time you watch RCTV Channel 21 decide for yourself.

GATEWAYS: Last Wednesday marked the completion of the Planning Commission's formal discussions on "Gateways to Redmond". A citizen gave a 4 minute Items from the Audience about gateways. Stepping outside the box, he tried to describe a Digital Gateway for the city. A "Key" (computer) inserted into the Gate's "keyhole" (Redmond's website) http://redmond.gov/ would open the Door to Redmond's Digital Gateway. Digital Kiosks were proposed for mass transit stations, the library, City Hall as additional "Gateways".

Most commission talk centered around a physical map of potential gateway road entrances proposed by staff. Planning commissioner, Korby Parnell concluded the multi-session Gateway deliberations with the following comments. He 1) valued roadway gateways yet strongly recommended a "digital gateway", specifically the city website. 2) requested city council review and consider digital gateway(s) 3) recommended writing objective criteria to define gateway design, and 4) since the project had no immediate deadline he urged engagement of the public in sketching criteria for the locations and designs for our Gateways. He specifically recommended involving our elementary school children. Thank you, planning commission for your deliberations on gateways; I truly hope this participatory course is followed. (A Berger, Inc. consultant from Seattle later coined the Leary Ave. entrance as the "Old Town Gateway".... again with no known public input.)

LOGOS: My heart quickly moves me again to our new pre-ordained, heron city LOGO. I find it glitzy, a bit tricky, artificial. ...should I go on? What do you think about it? I would have posted a the heron LOGO "branding" image but, to be frank, I'm tired of looking at it. Herons don't even make their homes in Redmond anymore. The Leary "Heron Rockery" is sterile. The Heron we see now fly in from the nesting rookeries of Issaquah.

On several occasions, planning commissioners Snodgrass and Querry and probably others informally shared their distaste for the new LOGO. It's over-designed ... a "bird brained" design. The heron bird LOGO gives an appearance we are trying to fit our natural environment into our city, rather than the other way around. In fact, heron artwork now pops up all around town in some of the strangest places. Just look around. But, don't worry, the bird will find you. Just as staff creates heron art to replace our lost living "wader bird" they are now trying to create wetlands in our Parks to replace wild, function wetlands.

For a college project, I studied the behavior of the Great Blue Heron in an Ohio cranberry bog rookery and came to love and admire this magnificent wading bird. Redmond's glitzy new LOGO does not do this magnificent bird service.

Did you know, "The Great Blue" was written into Redmond's Development Guide 'law book' about two years ago? It was rubber-stamped by Council as our "Species of Local Importance". During Planning Commission review, the Great Blue Heron was already typed into the ordinance draft as Species of Local Importance, without any prior commissioner discussion! Now, I wonder who made that decision - staff and Ives. During the commission's **20+ sessions on Critical Areas Ordinance, the heron species was hardly discussed other than remarks by Martin about it being a SR520 "gateway" icon and it would receive "extra protections" as a species of local importance. In retrospect, 'extra protections' appear questionable and no laws- State or City - protect the bird. Fish & Wildlife has Guidelines for magagment of the bird and the City doesn't have to follow Guidlines and they don't.

** Sessions were prolonged for months to allow for as much project vesting as possible under the existing, less ecologically friendly Sensitive Area Ordinance.

On a similar note, during last year’s Redmond Critical Area public hearing, with some trepidation, my wife and I proposed "riparian" as our city's "Habitat of Local Importance". Priority riparian habitat is the rich, green ribbon of vegetation bordering our streams, lakes and wetlands. During my presentation, I suggested the green swirling line of old city LOGO (hanging above the council's heads) be considered 'riparian" in honor of our valuable and important city habitat. Council approved 'riparian' pending deliberation by the Planning Commission. The Planning Commission came to a contentious split decision after much vetting and hearing multiple presentations by the public. Commissioners K. Allen, S. Querry, and T. Hinman voted FOR 'riparian'. Guidance from the Mayor in an obscure staff memo encouraged Council to vote AGAINST 'riparian' . The final decision had to do with potential threats of riparian corridors to the development community; and because "local importance" designations are considered (a scary!) city law -- this, despite the "heron of importance" being passed as a law! ]
Shortly thereafter, the new & improved, funky, spiffy, right-on, cool, awesome, Dude! "heron-in-hiding logo" appeared on RC-TV, Focus, city stationery, public notices, municipal buildings, public works trucks, the city web site, city business cards...everywhere and out of nowhere! It's the 'out of nowhere' part that bothers and frightens me. Who made this LOGO decision? The Mayor obviously had a large part in it, possibly preparing a legacy?. Were citizens engaged in this critical decision of culture? NO! I don't recall the planning commission ever deliberating on it, only that several were upset with the LOGO. Worse case scenario is the LOGO art & design farmed out to consultants and staff. Think of the tens of thousands of taxpayer dollars that must have been spent on this thing. We deserve some answers and I imagine they'll be popping up soon.

THE ART COMMISSION'S STRATEGIC PLAN- our salvation ?

Have you ever met the Arts Commission -- a group of 9 citizen volunteers, appointed by the Mayor and approved by the Council -- dedicated and passionate about furthering Art culture in our communities? I've seen the commission twice, both on TV 21. Both commission appearances were drastically different in form and substance. In the first telecast very few commissioners talked. An assertive staff member dominated and directed most of the commissioners' deliberations. I think I remember Chair Roy Leban, John Stilin, and Kay Tarapoisi doing most of the talking ; staff let the quieter commissioners mostly dangling. I can't remember what staff was goading and chiding them about. I vividly remember a preciously fun & entertaining guitar and song performance by creative commissioner Eva Moon. I have to tell you, Eva is one of my favorites and I hope to hear her perform at Victors or, some fortunate day, our own community art center on Cleveland Avenue.

A few weeks later the second telecast aired. Their meeting was well attended with Mayor Ives dressed in 'Redmond red' and all the council members but Mr. Robinson present. Mr Robinson, Chair of Parks & Art was probably out on Boeing business and his absence was noticeable. A Parks Recreation staff manager was present. She was more "parksy" than "artsy" but didn't take over the meeting like previous staff. She mentioned Parks is looking for a new advisor to assist the commission....I hope more sensitive and empathetic to the commission's temperament and needs.

The crux of the second meeting was a discussion of a new "strategic plan" for art designed to: 1) position the commission to be more proactive, 2) get them "moving ahead" towards seeing the "big picture", 3) utilize the city web site to increase communication & visibility, 4) encourage sub-committees support from citizen volunteers, 5) define values to insure commissioner continuity 6) create a vision statement.....

I barely heard John Stilin, a newer commissioner, read the commission's vision statement. It went something like "diverse arts opportunities are a principle reason why citizens love living here, why artists are attracted to live and work here, and why tourists visit Redmond." Council member Vache brought attention to this statement with high praise and commendation. Mayor Ives was pleased and suggested the commissioner’s vision statement and strategic plan be published on the city web site.
to be continued....

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

8/23/2006 - First Blog - Woodland March

THE PHOTO OF THE SIGN POSTED HERE TO ANNOUNCE THE NOVEMBER MARCH IS REMOVED FROM THIS POST.  IT CAN BE FOUND ON THE "REDMOND NEIGHBORHOOD BLOG" FACEBOOK PAGE.

8/23/06 CITIZEN ACTIVISM KIOSK for posting news and events:  

Hello friends,
I'm in Chelan for a few days and love this lake....though I miss the "Redmond green."  The photo [above] is our sign announcing the Perrigo Heights citizen march in November with the mayor and councilmembers [minus Mr. John P. (Pat) Vache]. The march in the woods was to demonstrate our love and hopes to preserve the woodlands and riparian habitat along Perrigo Creek.

We were partly successful. Partly.... 3.5 acres of the riparian remnant are preserved...another 8 acres of the mixed hardwood-conifer forest have yet to be saved by a Parks bond or citizenry or corporate donations. Too bad, especially for future generations. We can do better. You'll find posted some Perrigo forest photos taken on a foggy day in 2004. Good evening,
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UPDATE, 2/17/2007: The Redmond Reporter is under new management and now is a true paper, rather than a city voice. I was fortunate to be offered a column called "Citizen Watch" by the new Editor, John Huether. Bill Christianson has since taken over the reigns as Editor. We value our Redmond Reporter. Together we make Redmond better.  

UPDATE, 7/16/2022:   Julia Brand brought the proposed Perrigo Heights development to Mayor Rosemarie Ives attention.  Rosemarie initiated the "march" by inviting developer, Eric Campbell to join Councilmembers Robinson, McCormick, Cole (and others) in assessing the "40% Steep Slope" sewer line location for safety. Susan Wilkins, a geologist, had her whole family in the woods along the trail measuring to assess geologic stability.  I set up an table-top exhibit to show walkers Indian artifacts and educate the ecology of Perrigo woodlands and wetlands.  Mayor Ives ultimately "encouraged" Campbell to buffer the development away from the "Ashford Trail" and Hartman wetlands.  In the process trees were saved.  B.Y.