The city plans to open in person city hall for meetings by July 6th 2021.
The C.O.O. Malisa Files, Human Resource Director, and the Fire Chief presented Redmond's "Stay Safe Re-opening Plan" at Council's May 27th Study Session. It was well received, however councilmember David Carson noted he has a hard time speaking through a mask and requested this restriction be removed. Ms. Files said mask removals were a possibility.
Residents can enroll in PSE'sGreen Power programand with an additional $10 payment on their electrical bill can reduce 12,420 pounds of CO-2 emissions annually to 231 pounds per year.
Redmond, WA – The City of Redmond is partnering with Puget Sound Energy to purchase 100 percent of its electricity for government operations from dedicated, local, renewable energy resources. Green Direct, PSE’s innovative renewable energy product for governments and commercial entities, consists of a combination of wind and solar.
Redmond is joining Green Direct in its second phase. Phase one included a new wind project in Western Washington and was fully subscribed in 2017. Phase two will include a new solar project in south-central Washington, which is expected to be completed in 2021.
By subscribing to Green Direct, the City of Redmond is taking an essential step in reducing its carbon footprint and meeting the goals of its Climate Action Plan. The City of Redmond’s Comprehensive Plan and Climate Action Plan make clear that the City of Redmond is committed to addressing climate change locally, regionally and nationally by acting to lessen greenhouse gas emissions.
2010 State Audit of City of Redmond, WA. - Report on Accountability
FROM THE WASHINGTON STATE AUDITOR'S OFFICE: "We appreciate the opportunity to work in cooperation with your City to promote accountability, integrity and openness in government. The State Auditor’s Office takes seriously our role to advocate for government accountability and transparency and to promote positive change."
Results: "In the areas we examined, the City’s internal controls were adequate to safeguard public assets. The City also complied with state laws and regulations and its own policies and procedures in the areas we examined."
Audit History: "We audit the City annually. The past six audits of the City reported two findings. The 2006 audit reported a weakness in internal controls over financial reporting. The 2007 audit reported a weakness involving compliance with state bid laws. Both issues [occured the Mayor Rosemarie Ives Administration and] have been resolved." Read More >>
LETTER (Pro): I went from being a person against the red light cameras to being fully supportive of them. I was afraid I'd be rear ended several times as I slammed on brakes to avoid getting tickets (yes, I admit to cutting it close on occasion). But after attending the public meeting on the red light cameras, and seeing how people were speeding up and ENTERING the intersection after the light was red, well, I would give them a ticket too. Slowing down just a bit so that you can approach the light at a safe enough speed to avoid being rear ended and getting a ticket is easy. It's not too much to ask.
LETTER (Con): I think cameras are a great idea. We should have them everywhere, not just red lights. Like on the highway, so we can ticket all you slow drivers in the passing lanes. And in our houses (and bedrooms), so we can make sure there’s no wrongdoing going on there. Let’s not forget every church, synagogue and mosque. Can you imagine the juicy sedition we could uncover? Last, I’d like to put a webcam in almost every room at Redmond city hall, so we can see what really drives the behavior, decisions, and results that have so many of us puzzled. It seems we have the right and obligation to constantly monitor each other to ensure we protect society from our collective bad behavior. We’ll, count me all in. If you’re not doing anything wrong, you won’t object, right?
The Council Public Safety Committee meets monthly on the 4th Tuesday of the month (4 PM at City Hall). Councilmembers David Carson (candidate for Nov. election), Hank Myers (uncontested candidate) and John Stilin are committee members. The meetings are open to the public; the Redlight camera program and videos are often reviewed.
UPDATED: Just before Christmas, Commander Shari Shovlin of the Redmond Police announced a new start date for their Safety (Red Light) Cameras. The Red-Light camera activation date is now changed from New Year's Day to February 1.
THE RED-LIGHT PROCESS: For the month of February, citizens are sent a warning of their infractions. Citations will be issued starting March 1 and can be challenged in court. However, the city may give you an opportunity to review your infraction on their new website to help save you and the courts some time.
Some good news: Red-Light violations will be cited "non-moving" so your driver's insurance company won't ding you; and the $124 fine is less than a "moving" violation. Driving habits change and fewer accidents have been reported over time.
Some bad news: Red-Light cameras are controversial in some cities, because they've been reported as a Cash Cow. KING-TV featured a report on Lynnwood, WA with claims Lynnwood generated 10% of it's total budget from red-light fines. The reporter interviewed citizens who claimed revenues create a revenue habit for installing ever more red-lights Also, watch out for rear-end bumps as drivers get used the Pilot.
I alerted City Council to an education, yet alarming 12/5 KING-TV video in early December. Councillor Hank Myers, Chair of the Council Safety Committee responded with a Letter to RNB a few days after. The 12/5 KING-TV video has since been removed, though text remains.
Attention Users of City of Redmond Website After emailing Ms. Gronlund, City Communications Manager last night, I learned the city will launch their new site this Wednesday morning, 12/8. Be advised, old redmond.gov Bookmarks will be lost . Though Marta addressed Redmond Neighborhood Blog specifically, it appears Media will lose links to the new city website. No city press release on the launch date was issued.
Date: Sun, Dec 5, 2010 at 10:59 PM Subject: RE: Focus website index page feedback Bob: Yes the (Winter Lights) festival was wonderful.
Yes, the new site, while still redmond.gov to the outside world is completely different on the back end (database driven). So all links will be different - no old bookmarks will work and content is now organized functionally rather than by department. So for those who use it frequently, it will be a little frustrating for awhile.
If you have links to content on your blog now, please send them to me and I will get you the new links to the same content as soon as I have them. We launch the new site Wed. AM. (12/8)
Thanks, Marta Gronlund City Communications Program Manager
Sent from my Windows Mobile phone
When, and if, I receive the new website links from City Communications, I'll update RNB links.
It's my understanding the new city website link isredmond.gov.
Redmond Neighborhood Blog (RNB) reports on Open Government and links extensively to the city website to provide proof sources for my research; and important city information RNB provides could be compromised.
RNB is the oldest, ongoing hyper-local media site in Redmond. A plethora of city website links going back over four years are momentarily disabled. However, the majority of RNB readers rarely click on links, so little will be truly lost to your reading enjoyment! And, Redmond's repairing their end.
A beaver dam underneath the "Avondale Road -Powerline Bear Creek bridge" was removed by the city a few weeks ago, with permitted approval from Fisheries and Wildlife. The County has jurisdiction over the creek, but the bridge is owned by the City. Teresa Kluver, city parks employee says:
Due to the proximity of the dam structure to the bridge and the anticipated movement of Salmon it was decided early removal would be beneficial. We are currently monitoring the location for renewed beaver activity.
Lindsey Walimaki of PSE said salmon can usually swim through beaver dams. Could it be that some of the vegetative-woody debris floating from the PSE power line project contributed "building materials" for the beavers? The salmon are expected under the bridge anytime now. In this picture, the dam is "under construction" by beavers. The entire creek was eventually damed up by some very busy beavers.
OPINION: I was one of the few non-staff citizens, who attended the first "Budget By Priorities" community meeting on March 1. At the meeting, Mayor Marchione announced an emphasis on improving customer service; it was directed mostly to the staff-side of the chamber. Hopefully, customer service is one of his priorities again this year.
CITY OF REDMOND TEEN CLASSES AT THE OLD FIREHOUSE TEEN CENTER. There are some great classes being offered this winter. All classes will be held at the Old Firehouse Teen Center at 16510 NE 79th Street. For more information or to sign up for any of these classes, please call 425-556-2300, e-mail Chris Cullen, or download the Old Firehouse schedule. (non-residents may apply). For contacts and registration details go here.
· Drumming 102: For Drummers with some experience and want to advance their skills. The class will review and strengthen standard rudiments. Will include Latin and Cuban rhythms as well as rock time signatures and introduction to syncopation.Ages 13-19 Tuesdays Jan 19-Mar 9 6-7pm R $28 / NR $31.
· Digital Audio Mixing 101: earn the basics on mixing your own tracks for diverse applications including electronic, hip-hop and gaming audio. Using the most accessible software Music Studio by Acid you will cover programming patterns, creating form and structure, editing for contrast and variation as well as an introduction to mixing standards in balance, EQ and panning. You will also cover an improvisational approach to building rhythm, bass, harmony, melody tracks and loops. Ages 13-19 Tuesdays Feb 9-23 6 -7:30pm R $35 / NR $42.
· DJ'ing 101: In this class you will learn the basics and get hands on training about DJ'ing on turntables, CD players and new technology like Final Scratch and Ableton Live. Also get a chance to make your own beats. This class will provide a unique opportunity to learn some of the history and culture behind DJ'ing. Whether you are an acclaimed DJ or new to electronic music we will touch on everything you need to known to pursue a brilliant career in DJ'ing and Producing. Ages 13-19 Tuesdays Feb 2-23 6-7:30pm R $25 / NR $30.
· Teen Toastmasters: It's certainly no secret that public speaking is a source of fear and stress for many. In this workshop we will discuss the essentials to creating an effective presentation, practice delivery techniques, and find ways to handle the jitters of standing in front of an audience, and being able to engage in the information you are trying to convey. Public speaking is an important form of communication, a key in getting jobs, and succeeding in academics. It certainly doesn't have to be scary and this workshop will help you make it fun. Ages 14-19 Mondays Feb 8-Mar 8 6-7pm R $15 / NR $18
· Get Started with Blogging: Learn to blog and impress the world with your brilliant thoughts, innovative ideas, and random musings! In this class, you'll learn how to setup and get started with blogging with your very own URL. We'll personalize your site with an awesome layout and cool features, learn how to promote your blog, and track your progress as the number of visitors to your website skyrockets! A collaboration of OFH and teen-run non-profit Student RND. Ages 13-19 Mondays Feb 1-22 (no class Feb 15th) 6-8pm R $25 / NR $30.
· VJ 101: Mixing Live Video: Get in on this amazing new performance technology. Northwest top Professional VJs (Video Jockeys) teach the art of manipulating video imagery on-the-spot to music like a DJ would mix music, just add the video. No video or DJ experience necessary for this class. Age: 13-19 Mon & Tue Mar 22 & 23 6-8:30pm R $85R / NR $99 From the desk of Mary Bourguignon, Editor of "Redmond Mustangs"
While watching the Derby Day Parade, I ran into a few neighbors who know the City inside and out. Our thoughts centered on the towering City Hall foyer and how intimidating it can be to visitors. We decided one of the biggest problems about City Hall is no foyer receptionist to help you find your way. Unfortunatley helpful way-finding signage isn't posted because the landlord has signage requirements. (yep, the city doesn't own their building yet). Thus, we sometimes notice people wandering listlessly around the foyer and halls looking for a "warm body". Can you imagine how first time visitors of Redmond's diverse cultures must feel?
THE THINK TANK: When using the Help Desk Phone, visitor calls often get routed to the wrong department or sometimes not at all. It's disruptive. Long waits at the help desk phone frustrate visitors as they must often listen to endless routing messages. If Public Works were to survey the various City departments on the value of a lobby receptionist many Department heads would probably request a receptionist and even discover efficiencies to pay for one. Why? Stronger service and "efficiency savings" are part the city's budgeting priorities. Also, the Mayor places high regard for customer service and should he uncover efficiencies he might take action. "
This "courtesy photo" of Riverpark Apartments was published in the local Redmond Reporter (6/25) with the Press Release. For "real time" photos & clips scroll down.
Redmond REDMOND, Wash. – June 24, 2009 – Legacy Residential, a West Coast leader in residential developments, today announced the formal opening of Legacy at Riverpark Apartments. A new gateway to downtown Redmond, Legacy at Riverpark Apartments includes 319 luxury apartment homes and 5,700 square feet of street-level retail in three five- to seven-story buildings.
Legacy at Riverpark Apartments is part of the expansive six-acre mixed-use Riverpark development, which also includes a 144-room Hotel Sierra, developed by LodgeWorks; a 106,000-square-foot office building anchored by Group Health; street level retail spaces; and secure, underground parking for 750 vehicles. With the 135-unit first phase now completed, Legacy is focusing on completing the second phase, which includes an additional 184 apartment homes. The second phase will open in September.
Legacy at Riverpark Apartments strikes a unique balance between the energy of an urban, mixed-use village and the serenity of a nearby stream surrounded by expansive open spaces and jogging trails. Riverpark is just a half mile from SR-520 and is a five-minute walk along the newly extended and improved Bear Creek Parkway from Redmond Town Center, a lifestyle center featuring a high-end theater, restaurants, and more than 100 shops and boutiques, including REI and Macy’s. Just two miles from Microsoft, five miles from Downtown Bellevue and 15 miles from downtown Seattle, Riverpark offers excellent commuting options.
--Media Contact: Nate Cole-Daum, Nyhus Communications LLC for Legacy Partners Residential, Inc., (206) 323-3733 or nate@nyhus.com
COMMENT: I visited the apartments, took some pictures and talked to Nichole, Assistant Business Manager at Riverpark. The "Opening Day" 12-month Lease printed prices (dated 6/18/09) range from:
a low of **$572/month for a 1-BR Studio (10% of apartments are "affordable" )
to $2810/mo. for a 3 Bedroom Loft + Den, upper story w/view (presently unavailable)
Office of the Mayor – Communications Office EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY
CONTACT: Marta Gronlund, Voice: 425-556-2427 SENT: December 30, 2008
Letter to Redmond Residents
I have heard from many of you over the past two weeks, voicing your anger about the road conditions during the prolonged snowstorm. I share your frustration and apologize for the difficulty in navigating around the city.
To make matters worse, garbage and recycling piles up and overflows its containers. My neighbors are upset with me as I explain that cul-de-sacs will be the very last streets plowed. My children voiced their displeasure that our Christmas celebration was postponed four days because family could not make it to our house on Education Hill.
What I can tell you is that City of Redmond employees have been working 24/7 since December 17th to plow and clean our streets. Is it enough? Obviously not. A major limiting factor to our service is that the City owns only three large plows/sanders and one smaller plow/sander for 100 miles of road. This level of equipment is generally sufficient for most years; however, a storm like this occurs about once every 25 years and the equipment level clearly fell short this time. You have my commitment to review the City's response for lessons learned and to implement changes to our snow removal plan quickly.
I have been in touch with Waste Management representatives and they report trucks are out in full force this week. Some of their trucks have extra staff on board to help with any extra trash or hard to service containers. Waste Management asks for your patience as their crews work through the very real logistical complications associated with the sheer volume of material they expect to find at the curb.
On all these issues, I asked staff for a complete debriefing of what happened, what changes need to be made and how we can prevent similar problems in the future. We will provide the City Council with a report at the January 6th City Council meeting. We certainly can’t control the weather, but we can learn and make changes to our response. As soon as I have more information, I will report back to you and the Council on what steps and changes we are taking. This information will also be available on www.redmond.gov.
Thank you for sharing your experiences. Hearing from you has been painful but provides useful information that will help the City better respond to future storm events.
