4/9/07, Richard Cole runs again

Yesterday, the Redmond Reporter announced Councilman Richard Cole, 65, has decided to run again for a 6th term.

Mr. Cole is a CPA and very attentive to how tax dollars are spent. This is good. Beyond a doubt, he has demonstrated undying dedication and service to the city and commerce over the years. Mr. Cole is now retired from Boeing and working full time for the City. He has wide experience and knowledge of how Redmond government works.

That said, I hope other candidate(s) will surface with fresh ideas and new perspectives to challenge Mr. Cole in the August 21 primary.

City council service shouldn't have to be a full time career job. He's had it 21 years. Hopefully, someone with a fresh approach will step forward.

It's time.

Historical Society "Saturday Speaker Series" Program, Brief History

Old Redmond Schoolhouse Community Center houses
   the Speaker Series venue and society museum 

For those citizens lucky enough to sit in on a Redmond Historical Society (RHS) Saturday Speaker Series event they might describe their experience "an awakening" to the treasure trove of Redmond history and now current events.   

You don't just see lots of brown & white stills at Series events these days. Years ago, Redmond Historical Society's co-founder Miguel Llanos weaved a rich fabric of multi-media into the Series. Today, its a mix of live and remote presentations and published on YouTube. Miguel also played a significant role in writing and editing the society newsletter with honorable co-founders Naomi Hardy and Margaret Wiese.

Some past speaker topics: the turkey farming industry and moonshine operations; Nike rocket launching; Evergreen Hospital Chair Al DeYoung's story on his lumber business; Ben Franklin owners' story; retired Park and Recreation Director John Couch's description of his Recreation role; David William's "Human and Natural History of Puget Sound book"; and a recent "Redmond Space District" talk.  

 Zesty "Nao" Hardy built a solid foundation for the society recording detailed history on the website, compiling and editing "Redmond Reflections" (2006.) I think she co-founded the Series.  Nao coined the phase "History is happening In Redmond" -- a great motivation for me.  Mayor Marchione  recognized her contributions with a tiny park and kiosk on the corner of Leary and Redmond Way.

It's my understanding Joe Townsend started the Saturday Speaker Series and John Oftebro, the current President of RHS and Executive Vice President Laura Lee Bennett are continuing the tradition.  John re-developed Redmond's museum and is moving the society to Redmond's new Senior & Community Center.  

Background:

Mayor Rosemary Ives cum laude, and Judy Lang played big roles in founding the society, as did Mayor Chris Himes (1980 - 1984.) John Couch, 30-year Park and Recreation Director is doing  invaluable work digitalizing the "Sammamish Valley News." I like to remember Doris Scheibel, Chair of RHS Community Relations; known for her work as City Clerk to four Redmond mayors,1969-1995. She once told me I complained so much, I should run for council. 

-- Story / photo Bob Yoder, 3/29/2007, edited 5/20/2024

3/27/07, Design flaws from cramming subdivisions

I'm writing out of frustration with the planning department about a short subdivision project called Spiritbrook Manor, near 520 by Marymoor. Though other citizens have many more frustrations, I'll list a few of mine, as follows:

In land use meetings and appeals I've attended, the Planning & Development Dept. often explain their borderline decisions saying "but, the plan DOES meet our city minimum standards"! However, in this case, the Springbrook Manor lots are crammed in so close to each other that certain design STANDARDS don't even exist. For example:

1. An "alley" is needed by the developer so the garages will fit in. Yet, the city has no specific standard for alleys to allow for vehicular movement, including Emergency Medical Services. i.e. a planner wants the alley so "the garages will be just enough apart to allow a vehicle to back out and turn..." What is "just enough apart? What kind of "vehicle will back out and turn"? An auto, emergency vehicle, a garbage truck? The city plan is loosey goosey - not by design.

2. When the development staff were challenged about where the required parking spaces would go, staff stated that 6 parking spaces met standards. After questioning from a citizen, staff then lowered their "standards" to 4 spaces to "make the project work" so that parking on the street wouldn't be required.

3. Code requires 40% of all developments be pervious to water (to manage run-off and water quality). Because so many structures and driveways are crammed onto this small parcel AND a power station will be installed on it, PERVIOUS surfaces are just less than 40%. The Public Works Dept. empirically claims that the gravely ground under the power station qualifies as being totally pervious, yet no specific minimal design standards or code language is in "the books".

During an appeal will the Hearing Examiner require staff to document minimum standards are met? And, if no standards or code can be found will the Examiner call in the Design Review Board to determine if the existing plan can be architecturally made to work?

4. Finally, I've been informed that several answers from staff may have been inadvertantly inaccurate, misleading, or delaying. The persistent citizen challenging this subdivision was given the wrong information on permeable space calculations and parking space requirements. She had to dig up information staff could not answer or had wrong. She had to attend multiple meetings with the Dir. of Planning & Development, made public and private presentations to Council and the Mayor, she had multiple meetings with public works and planning staff. Yes, it's the run-a-round. But, what's different this time is she has proven our design, development and review process for short plats is in serious need of an over-haul.
Unfortunately, this citizen has toiled for months without a city advocate. She had to get all her information about the project from city staff, yet staff will be the party challenging her in an appeal! Do you think this is fair? Could this be why it was so difficult getting a straight answer from the city for this project? What do you think?

3/10/07 - How safe is our drinking water?

This story was broadly read by the Ives administration after it was published. Shortly after it's publication the City hired a geologist to manage the Wellhead Protection Program; A City FOCUS magazine Public Relations campaign was launched. 1/16/2006

Did you know that almost 40% of our drinking water lies up to 5-20 feet below the surface of the ground? Everyone east of the Sammamish River drinks from our underground "well" water. It's stored in an a large, natural "aquifer" -- formed by an ancient glacial river 10,000 years ago.
The city is doing a pretty good job keeping our ground well water clean but some concerns remain outstanding, as follows:

The city owns and operates 5 wells - 2 near Anderson Park, 1 near Target & Home Depot, 1 at City Hall, and the last one along Avondale Rd. These wells have "wellhead protection zones" classified Zone 1--4 with 1 being most protected.

Multiple housing developments on top of these well protection zones could threaten our water quantity & quality over time.

>>Perrigo Heights - Camwest just proposed building 24 houses on their parcel near Hartman Park. Perrigo Heights sits on a Zone 2 Protection Zone for the Avondale well.
>>Shaunessey Heights - next to Redmond Elementary is proposed for 62 homes. The project will sit on top of a Zone 1 & Zone 2 well protection zone for the Anderson Park well.
>>Avondale Crest - 9 houses were recently approved; the project sits on a Zone 2/1 well protection zone for the Avondale well. Treated stormwater drains into Bear Creek.
>>Tyler Creek - 92 houses are under construction and this project sits on top of a Zone 2 well protection zone for the Avondale well. Treated stormwater drains into Bear Creek.
>>City Hall - was built on a Zone 1 well protection zone adjacent to the city hall well!
>>Mosaic Meadows - is constructing 13 houses on top of a Zone 2 well protection zone for the Avondale well. Stormwater drains into Bear Creek.
>>Redmond Ridge - Zone 2 Wellhead Protection for Avondale well.
>>"Union Hill Industrial" - Zone 1 Wellhead Protection for Avondale well. - recently improved with 2 water treatment detention ponds. Hazardous waste site was discovered by the City and Department of Ecology last year. Untreated stormwater drains into Evan Creek (at this time).
an on....

All these developments meet minimum city construction standards. However, significant impervious surfaces increase with each development. Impervious surfaces reduce the amount of filtrated surface water available to recharge our aquifers with clean water.

Detention ponds are now being replaced by "wet vaults" for stormwater run-off treatment. Wet vaults do NOT remove all the phosphates, nitrates, and heavy metals that run-off of roofs and lawns. Some of these toxic chemicals eventually may soak into our aquifer and wells.

At Perrigo Heights plat a wet vault will be installed next to Perrigo Creek. Toxic chemicals will spill directly into Perrigo Creek and soak into the Hartman Wetlands. The wetlands will eutrify from a mitigated water supply and stormwater toxins.

Each development by itself probably won't have a significant impact to our well water quality. However, as development continues & aggregates our quality & quantity of potable (drinking)water is likely to decline.

60% of our potable water is piped in from the Tolt Reservoir. It costs more than well water.

The Cascade Water Alliance has secured a $55M bond to supply eastern King County water needs. (350,000 are expected to move into King County withing 20 years.) Drinking water will be piped in from the White River (fed by Emmons Glacier on Mt. Ranier) and Cedar River near Tacoma and stored in Lake Tapps. The Mayor of Kirkland first told me of this alliance. He said it was really a big deal. Council member John Marchione attends the Cascade Water Alliance meetings as a Board member for Redmond. The mayor of Bellevue is Chair. Mr. Marchione addresses Redmond's role in the alliance on his campaign webpage. The White River - Lake Tapps pipe in 20 years out.

CASCADE WATER ALLIANCE WEBSITE: www.cascadewater.org/
CITY WELLHEAD PROTECTION MAIN PAGE : www.redmond.gov/groundwater.

3/5/07, Council quirks and endless conversations

Education Hill road improvements are funded by the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and grants.

I don't have any news of substance to report from the council's Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) grindingly endless meeting last night. It was at a "tier 1", global "conversation" of "priorities" and "criteria"...with a pinch of pontificating. Hopefully, the "pieces" will fit together once council "gets through the weeds" to analyze the specifics.


The sooner the better, as we've got roads and parkways to build - like 166th & 104th improvements.


Common council jargon is in parenthesises.

Action words are uncommon e.g. 'decision' , 'consensus- making ', 'determine', and 'resolve' and 'act', etc.


Bottom line: Thus, council's frequent grinding, long and unproductive study sessions often end in the laps of staff for decision making or put off. Citizen commissions, advisory boards and ad hoc citizens RARELY sit at the table -- to extend bounded rationality, ideas, consensus to take 'the conversation' to the highest level - the DECISION.


Staff recommendations and presentation of Planning Commission recommdations for Marymoor East and Kempin Property zone issues were summarily dismissed at the March 13 study session. (Resha/Robinson absent). Marymoor East is now up for reconsideration 6/07.


Referenced to: City of Kirkland's highly effective council study session on 'Transportation, 2007' viewed from archived video on their website.'

2/24/07, My Tent City Visit

I had a visit to Tent City 4 today that was worthy than an entry to my diary. The encampment was very quiet and peaceful, as usual.

I spent an hour on the "city sidewalk" (wood planks) talking with 40 year-old Matt McKaffery (name changed for confidentiality). Matt was shaving in the outdoor sink when I saw him. He had on a clean Oakland "A's" pullover and was well groomed and intelligent. Lots of good in him but he had his struggles. Matt is from Louisiana and has been in TC for 9 months -- Woodinville, Finn Hill, and now here. He is newly immigrated to Washington. He was outspoken.

When I asked, he told me:

1) about 50% of the residents are men that recently got divorced. Many have homes used by their families. A few are professionals, like doctors and lawyers he says.

2)  many of the women in camp are "activists" promoting aid to the homeless.

3) Matt used to be lonely and finds comfort from the City. He appears to be an activist. A few times I almost felt like I was being recruited. Matt says he feels a strong sense of power in camp. He is an active Christian. He's interested in knowing about credible non-profits. He says 'everyone' ought to spend some time in tent city - a couple of weeks....to build empathy, etc.

4) He says most go to work in the early morning -- 6 am and earlier -- by bus. Matt is smart and well-groomed and I would think he could save up to find a decent job in a less expensive city.

5) They get new blankets every week - cleaned -- this is a requirement.

6) They meet on Wednesday's for "disbarment" meetings. There isn't a "trial" if you are caught with alcohol or drugs because you are automatically disbarred from camp for good. The camp is very strict on this, he stated.

7) They meet every Thursday at 6pm for dinner and a mandatory meeting at 7pm. I'm going to meet the ShareWheel Manager Scott Morrow and present the non-profit Mental-Health resources from HERO HOUSE, 425 -614 -1282. (He never showed up).

THE HERO HOUSE -- SOCIAL AND JOB SUPPORT for those with diagnosed & recovering from mental illness. http://www.herohouse.org/index.html. Membership is free.
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Bob,
Thanks for the information on Hero House. Sounds like a great program [for psychiatric recovery & job rehabilitation]. Being local, it will also likely well serve Tent City 4 Residents after the move to the Church of the Resurrection next month. I will pass on the information to Tent City. Any brochures, etc. can be left at the entrance Tent at Tent City at any time. These could then be left available to current and future residents of the camp. The turn over is extensive. It is great to hear about the many who have found jobs, apartments, and otherwise improved their lot.

Thanks again,
Fr. Dave Rogerson, 4/25/07ST. JUDE WEBSITE LOG OF TENT CITY 4: http://stjude-redmond.org/Bulletin/TC4.htm

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INTERESTING SITE ON HOMELESSNESS & MENTAL HEALTH - (excerpt below) http://www.nrchmi.samhsa.gov/

"Over a five-year period, about 2–3 percent of the U.S. population (5–8 million people) will experience at least one night of homelessness. For the great majority of these people, the experience is short and often caused by a natural disaster, a house fire, or a community evacuation.2
A much smaller group, perhaps as many as 500,000 people, have greater difficulty ending their homelessness.

Most—about 80%—exit from homelessness within about 2–3 weeks. They often have more personal, social, and economic resources to draw on than people who are homeless for longer periods of time.

About 10% are homeless for up to two months, with housing availability and affordability adding to the time they are homeless.

Another group of about 10% is homeless on a chronic, protracted basis—as long as 7–8 months in a two-year period. Disabilities associated with mental illnesses and substance use are common. On any given night, this group can account for up to 50% of those seeking emergency shelter."
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St Jude's Church is looking for donations for: $200/mo for water, $200/mo for electricity.
ShareWheel needs $275/week for dumpsters; $30 bus ticket books; 33g trash bags, 10X14 blue or grey tarps.

5/3/07, Robinson announces run for Mayor & my observations

The Redmond Reporter announced today Jim Robinson will be running for mayor. He files within 2-3 weeks.

Born and raised in Everett, Jim has lived in Redmond since 1983. A long-time city Council member, Jim has worked as a financial analyst at Boeing for years. A family man, he's well traveled and educated with an MBA at Seattle University, a Masters in International Management at the American Graduate School of International Studies, Phoenix and a BA in Political Science from Willamette University.

According to the Reporter, Jim's purpose in running is much to do about improving the quality of life in Redmond. That would include keeping Derby Days and Redmond Lights in the operating budget. Jim's very excited about the potential for our downtown. Jim has a wry sense of humor which goes a long way in meetings and his dealings with the public. His peers look to Jim for his intellect and good nature. Jim has a warm, amicable personality that would suit him during ceremonial presentations and public interaction. Jim works at Boeing out of a cubicle as a financial analyst. He has attributes for seeing the overlaying picture and analytical thinking, yet I have some reservations about his overall effectiveness in managing a staff of over 400.

www.robinsonformayor.com VIDEO
------------------------------------ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Campaign Address: Jim Robinson for Mayor, 16625 Redmond Way Suite M PMB 333, Redmond, WA. 98052-4444

Email: jamesprobinson@earthlink.net, Website: http://www.robinsonformayor.com/

Phone: 425-941-8829
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ April 24, 2007

Press Release: Jim Robinson for Mayor of Redmond Campaign

Jim Robinson, candidate for Redmond mayor in this fall’s election, is issuing a challenge to his opponents, Holly Plackett and John Marchione, to join with him and mutually agree to forego the use of yard signs in their campaigns. Yard signs are a significant source of visual clutter and have a negative impact on our environment, both by the resources used and the litter remaining after the election season is over. In addition, the proliferation of the number of signs in recent elections, especially in the public rights of way, can create hazardous conditions for drivers. Mr. Robinson believes that preserving the natural environment in Redmond is very high on the citizens’ list of priorities and so has proposed this small but significant step toward achieving that outcome.


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MY COMMENTS: It is most unfortunate the "natural environment" of Perrigo Springs Woodlands could not be preserved. The city decision not to negotiate in earnest to preserve Perrigo Woods was myopic. I was hoping Jim, being the Council Chair of Parks, would take the lead to tap unallocated CIP (capital funds) to preserve this last remaining urban forest & priority habitat.

Wednesday June 27, 2007 - 10:54pm (PDT)

2/17/07, Neighborhood Meetings - short plat review

scroll down for updates

During Neighborhood Meetings the developer typically holds the meetings and invites neighbors within 500 feet. City staff facilitates the meetings and passes around sign-in sheets. citizens who attend may become a Party of Record qualifying them for mailing & appeal privledges. The meeting gives the applicant an excellent opportunity to "sell" his project and gauge the public. The public offers ideas and feedback which could help the applicant and city. Unplanned consequences may surface during the meeting, giving both parties opportunity to improve the project.

Eliminating Neighborhood Meetings from short subdivisions ( 9 or fewer lots-"short plats" ) is a huge mistake. Short plats are now one of the most common permits issued in our city. Often lots must be clustered with PRD permits owing to critical areas, utilities, and other constraints. Avondale Crest SP and SpiritBrook Manor SP are examples.
When reviewing the SpiritBrook Manor file this week I noticed "Neighborhood Meetings" were not held for this small subdivision project, yet they were for Avondale Crest SP. This is inconsisistent & unfair for all.
Neighborhood meetings are authorized by Mr. Odle, Code Administrator, hopefully after review by the Planning Commission. Selective elimination of Neighborhood Meetings from short plat Review process is wrong and another example of where the city is going to limit public participation in land use. Neighborhood/Community Meetings should be required for ALL short plats (9 or fewer lots)...not just on a "hit and miss" basis.
Last year the Planning Commission deliberated on Public Notice, commissioners consolidated the PC's recommendations and submitted them in writing to Judd Black, Development Manager. Is the absence of Neighborhood Meetings from short subdivisions the intention of the PC? I doubt it. We'll see.
APPLICANT/PUBLIC "NEIGHBORHOOD MEETINGS" should be required for ALL short plats, not selectively and at the whim of project planners and deevelopers.
UPDATE: 4/5/07 - Two meetings with Councilmember John Resha's Planning and Public Works Committee has yeilded the possiblity of a 1 meeting requirement for short plats 3 -9 lots in size. Still, no decision. It may have been decided that the presence of any Critical areas would require a neighborhood meeting; tho nothing in writing. The process is starting to wear down the participating citizens. Only 2 showed up at the last meeting. We started with over 6.
7/07 http://www.redmond.gov/insidecityhall/citycouncil/20070717pdfs/VII1.pdf NEW PUBLIC NOTICE POLICY c/o JOHN RESHA'S PLANNING COMMITTEE !

2/14/07, My "Citizen Watch" column listings

WELCOME TO THE BLOG! I hope you enjoy Redmond's independent, alternative news and come back often. I update the site weekly with new entries so bookmark now at http://redmondblog.org. Your comments are welcome too so don't be shy! :)

I am an Education Hill citizen volunteer & activist & 27-year resident of Redmond, WA. I've lived on Education Hill for 21 years and a Lake Sammamish condo for 6 years. Illegal Public Notice errors and omissions at the 2004 "Perrigo Heights" land-use project triggered my community activism.

The "Redmond Reporter" can be picked up for free at the: post office, city hall, library, and The Old Redmond School House -- deliveries are Wednesday and Saturday.

An index of my Redmond Reporter columns are below:

1) 2/14/07 - "Redmond residents deserve better land-use notification"

2) 2/28/07 - "Attention, candidates: Can you solve these six traffic problems?"

3) 3/14/07 - "Speak up now if you want to help preserve Perrigo Heights"

4) 3/9/07 - "Will City Council blow chance to put density where it belongs? ( yes , 5-2)

5) 4/11/07 - "Here's why streams need us to speak up in their defense" (Kempin Property)

6) 4/25/07 - "Gateways are the public 'face' Redmond shows to the world."

7) 5/9/07 - "Springtime in our parks mixes renewal with a sense of loss."

8) 5/23/07 - "Living with Tent City: Some success amid a lot of stress."

9) 6/6/07 - "Riparian Habitat means clean water for Redmond"

10) 6/20/07 - Shocking loss of Perrigo Heights affects many in our community"

11) 7/11/07 - "We face a water supply challenge"

CITIZEN WATCH COLUMN DISCONTINUED JUST BEFORE THE PRIMARY AFTER THE NEW EDITOR RECIEVED AN "ADVISORY" FROM THE MAYOR & COMM. OFFICER.

The new Redmond Reporter CITIZEN WATCH column is tentatively scheduled every 2-weeks though, this is subject to change. http://www.redmond-reporter.com/

The City of Redmond Neighborhood B L O G :) is an independent, non-profit reporting and opinion service offering alternatives to traditional newspaper journalism. Much of my material originates from close scrutiny of Council, Planning Commission, and Arts Commission televised meetings. A goal is to provide a catalyst for change & transparency within the Redmond government to encourage citizen & neighborhood participation. "Together we make Redmond better"

The Redmond Neighborhood BLOG:) is different from my new Redmond Reporter CITY WATCH column in that I write on any subject I choose without restrictions, advice or edits to length and content. CITIZEN WATCH is focused mostly on City Hall and neighborhood issues connected in some way to Council. I welcome feedback, advice, and information from my neighbors & friends before writing columns.

This blog has unlimited latitude and will address any issue I feel relevant to the progress of our city and neighborhoods; and for entertainment value. The Neighborhood Blog policy on elections is not to endorse candidates.

What I say in my blog or column may be dated, misleading, inaccurate, of flat-out wrong. My errors & omissions are not intentional. I will not give a friend, neighbor or commissioner's name without their prior approval; I try quote as close to the sources as is possible and ethical.

Thank you for your readership both "here and there" and thanks for sharing!

Bob Yoder

425-802-2523

redmondblog@gmail.com

2/8/07, Public notice improvements & land-use review advocacy - council review

7/07NEW PUBLIC NOTICE LAND-USE POLICY!! href= "http://www.redmond.gov/insidecityhall/citycouncil/20070717pdfs/VII1.pdf
THANK YOU JOHN RESHA - AND YOUR COMMITTEE (ALLEN,VACHE,COLE,MCCORMICK) AND MR. ODLE. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------3/13 UPDATE - AT BOTTOM-------------------Regarding: Citizen Land Use Advocate:Credit goes to Sue Stewart for the idea of "citizen advocate" to facilitate land use reviews and represent citizens during reviews. Sue is an Education Hill neighbor and Chair of Redmond Parks Board. Praise goes to Council member John Resha for acting on the idea. John is holding a meeting this Thursday 2/22, 4:30 at Council chambers to consider implementing the concept. John changed the date from 2/21 a day before the meeting. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------from Kimberly Allen, Redmond Council member, 2/8/2007 [Kimberly's comments are posted in the "Notable Comments & Quotes..." blog]Hi Bob, "Congratulations again! I am very excited about the land use review process getting official Council attention and wider exposure through the Reporter. I have been raising this issue since I was a Planning Commissioner--we can do a much better job with our public outreach in land use. Mr. Resha has some innovative ideas around the need for neighborhood advocates in the Planning process and I have long concurred with that need. So, while I was not appointed to the Council's Planning and Public Works Committee, I will indeed be participating in the conversation on the 21st where I will raise the additional problems of public access to planning documents as well as the City's responsibility to educate the public on this often befuddling and obscure process. Kirkland's website is an excellent model for us--no need to reinvent the wheel to get this job done."Looking forward to your column.Kim--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Sue Stewart, 7/4/2005 - "In the same way the Real Estate industry has adopted the practice of Buyer and Seller Agents, how can we in all fairness, expect a City Project Manager to meet the needs of both the developer and the community without sacrificing one over the other. We need to have a staff position that is a neighborhood advocate, educating and guiding the neighborhood in a comprehensive review of the process and all of the next steps and appeals available to them. Ethically, no matter how well intentioned anyone tries to be/wants to be, it can't be done and serve both sides appropriately. BUT, let me quickly stipulate that I am not casting any dispersions on Staff. Staff was professional. As an alternative to a Resident Advocate, at minimum, the City should provide community groups a comprehensive, written, step-by-step process with references and footnotes to the technical requirements and file this document online." [full speech to Council is found on ED HILL Group - front page of this site.]----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------City of Kirkland's helpful permit web site is: http://www.kirklandpermits.net/tm_web/This site is used by 11 local cities: http://www.mybuildingpermit.com/home/default.asp---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------3/13/07 UPDATEThe Council Planning a Public Works Committee meeting was impressive and well attended by staff and council and 5 citizens, though not much was accomplished. John Resha did not attend owing to work commitments. Rob Odle, Director of Planning and Development, ran the meeting and presented overheads on two approved projects -- Tyler Creek and Hampton. Two citizens living next to Tyler Creek complained of lack of parking, loss of trees, traffic, inequities of the comprehensive zoning process of 1993 when densities were changed from R-1 to R-4 with little public knowledge.-I complained about the destruction of a neighborhood view corridor by the Hampton short plat project. Mr. Resha's house and neighborhood is only 10 feet away (plus a detention pond) from the Hampton project . The towering houses are totally incompatible with Resha's neighborhood. The project was built on a steep slope. EMS services and parking will be compromised. -Mr. Odle addressed the absence of Neighborhood Meetings for short plats suggesting he may even change the code to require neighborhood meetings. I'll believe it when I see it. More likely, staff will request developers to hold meetings. Currently, only one Neighborhood Meeting is being held for Preliminary Plats and PRD's e.g. Shaughnessy.Individual citizen comments at the Shaughnessy plat meeting were not recorded --- other than "some notes", per Fischer. -Staff attending: Almond (transportation), Franklin (Development), Fischer (Development), Files (clerk), Black (Development), Odle (Planning & Development Director), and Ives, an others. Council attending: Vache, McCormick, Allen, Cole. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------5/6/07 UPDATE: re: the 3rd meeting. No decisions made in writing about Neighborhood meetings. Only talk about requiring one neighborhood meeting for short plats the size of 3-9 lots; and requiring neighborhood meetings for "critical areas". No talk about requiring Neighborhood Meetings for TYPE III preliminary plats...much more common land use. Only one other citizen showed up (Stewart) and two boy scouts. We started out with an aggregate of over 8 citizens; bureacratic process has worn every citizen down and out.! This is not a process to encourage creative participation by citizens! Resha's statement at the dais, 5/5, totally eliminated my desire for further participation. He's sending our record onto the PC. I've been there, done that! Not again! I recommended they use the City of Kirkland notices of application and hearing as a template for redesigning our notices. Kirkland gives notice under the same state laws as we do and they don't cut off comments to 14 days. The layperson can reead them with understanding. In conclusion, citizen Focus Groups with one staff member and one elected & possible one commissioner would get these citizen jobs done with much less citizen attrition and more effectiveness. 7/17/07 -- Mr. Resha presented his finished product on public notice improvements to council and it was accepted 7-0. Some follow-up will be required by the PC and staff. Key points: NOA will be sent to all residents (not just owners), Legibility of Vicinity and site plan maps improved, Neighborhood meetings for short plats, CLARIFY "COMMENTS DUE DATE" to reflect that staff will accept comments until decision or hearing date! Better use of web links. Tree preservation Plan included with NOA. THANK YOU JOHN RESHA!! and Mr. Odle.

2/7/07, My Diary of Tent City

Saturday, 2/10 The Tent City is moving in today, about 700 feet from our house. Driving past the bus stop adjacent RJH I noticed a congregation of homeless types hanging out for the bus. They were. I talked to a few. They were bussed over from a shelter (cpc?) in Seattle to attend a ShareWheel meeting. Not members of TC4.The guy I talked to was a transient who said he had no ID! He's from TX has only been in the Seattle shelter for 2 weeks. He refused to sign up w/ tent city because the manual was 2 inches thick. Tent City also tests for drugs. Bottom line: This guy and possibly other transients (about 15) at the stop is what the community fears the most. Tent City resident screening is more thorough than Seattle. At the Seattle shelter (UWAB) they don't test for drugs and alcohol.Wilcox is my neighbor (and family friend) and unscreened transients are his primary underlying objection to Tent City. Being a father of a 14 year old, I agree -- that's my main concern. I advocate for their recovery but obviously don't like the location near schools and neighborhoods with lots of children. As I walked away from the group, one yelled at me an unsolicited christian blessing and warned not to take pictures from a distance. Tent city doesn't bother me. It's the transient riff-raff -- unscreened & unmonitored that bothers me. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SUNDAY, 2/11 These folks are much like present day Hobos. Instead of living in box cars and traveling by trains they hang out at bus stops and encampments. I've met a number of them. I feel much sympathy and pain for them. They appear mostly: docile, withdrawn, dejected, self-conscious, with humility, lackadaisical, many in a daze or fog, some with bad teeth. I told my wife Bellevue spent $250K trying to keep TC4 out. Lambert (county commissioner) said $60,000 was spent by a city on police overtime. Pam figured TC4 could build their own building for the $ spent to keep the encampments afloat. I think if a shelter was built the hobo's would never leave. Today it's raining. Who would want to live in a tent in the elements for long?--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday, 2/12 First day of school with TC4 in operation. My daughter reported no problems at school. A few more cars picking up after-school v-ball players. A few more cars dropping kids off at school. Made plans with a non-profit to offer mental health support services to TC4. I'll visit the camp this week to present the opportunity to Father Dave. (I 'll skip days without news). --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday, 2/13 I drove into the St. Jude parking lot at 4:30pm; it was lightly raining. American flag flying. The tent site was wrapped with blue, 5 foot privacy screening. Except for a TV, the site was noticeably quiet. Walking towards the laundry area I saw residents playing on two computers. Wondered if they had WI-FI? Over 15 10-speed bikes where parked on site. The tents were large, in good shape and securely anchored in 4 long rows. No smoke; hardly any chatter. Two workers wearing construction vests - cleaning up. I found the leader, Brian Thomas. He told me he was a TC4 founder, past 3-yr TC3 resident and a TC resident for 5 years. Brian was of sound mind, good health, and good judgement. I wonder if ShareWheel pays him? Probably. He was open to non-profit mental health support and referred me to Scott Morrow of ShareWheel (206-448-7889). I'll call tomorrow.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday, 2/14 Drove thru the TC lot and noticed 3 older gentlemen in green traffic vests. They are volunteers for St. Jude or ShareWheel. It was raining lightly and they looked kinda miserable standing around without much to do. They were stationed at 166x104, across from Mann, and N. of the church.
My friend Jon said problems don't typically occur when lots of kids are out -- commuting to and from school; most problems (if any) occur before and after the school commute. Most kids had a buddy or were in a group today.
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Thursday, 2/15 A neighbor told me the City has only 1 shower for about 40 residents and they may have up to 65 residents. 3 porta-pottys, 4 sinks (2 with hot water), and they are only allowed to sleep in the church if it's below freezing. They don't eat inside accept on occasion.
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Rosann, an Ed. Hill neighbor and past St. Jude Church member quoted:
"I just heard from a member of Faith Lutheran Church that two Tent City residents were asked to leave the camp because of excessive noise.

They had no ride anywhere and a church member offered to drive them somewhere to get help. I don't know any more details other than that."
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Saturday, 2/24 talked to Matt for an hour, a tent city resident of 9 months. He invited me to the next Thursday dinner at 6pm to meet the Share Wheel Operator. I plan to present some "Club House" informational packets of services available for those with brain disorders. (I wrote this up in detail on my blog site (search social-services)
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Tuesday, 2/27 Hearing scattered comments from a few parents about "homeless sightings". The dairy queen, walking up the street, the QFC store... The most disconcerting comments were from a basketball mom who was frightened seeing two men at 9PM sitting on the RJH bench by the front entrance. And, my 5th grade lunch buddy said that men were staring at at watching some of his school chums.
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Thursday, 3/1 I went to the TC specifically to meet the ShareWheel manager -- about a non-profit that offers mental health support. He wasn't there. Father Dave told me the residents all stayed in their tents during last night's snow. He said they had about 48 residents now but started off with 72. He mentioned about 6 residents moved up and out. My question is what happened to the others? Dave said most residents are from the Eastside. We talked about the critical importance of social support from the TC .
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Friday, 3/2 The "Redmond Reporter's" Saturday "Police Blotter" reported that Police were called at 9 p.m. into the Tent City to arrest a woman with a warrant -- she was applying for residency at Tent City.

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Sunday, 3/12. A neighbor have me this link to an online discussion on TC4 http://www.topix.net/forum/city/redmond-wa/TJ2AG3THRSB9FRUCF/p1

The Pre-Hearing to the appeal is coming up this Tuesday.

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Tuesday, 3/13: I've noticed I'm getting a lot of hits on my Diary blog from Tent City folks -- at least 2 per day. It would be nice if they could spend more time looking for work than looking at the computer for news about themselves. Your TC4 IP address is 76.22.14.86

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Thursday, 3/15: Finally made contact with Mr. Marrow, the ShareWheel Administrator. Just got off the phone with him. I told him I had info on a non-profit that wanted to help but he was very busy and wouldn't be out for the regularly scheduled Thursday dinner. (3rd time he was absent on my call). He recommended I see him between 6:30am - 7:30am on T, W. TH in Seattle. After some persistence, he informed me he's in TC4 once a day and could see today or Friday. I gave him my CELL since he never knows when he'll be there. I've got some great information on some great support services for some of the residents and can't wait to see him about it. 5:40 p.m. update: no call from Mr. Marrow today.

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Sunday, 3/19: Mr. Marrow didn't call on Friday. He called today at 12:30 and wouldn't make an appointment to see me. I don't understand. ShareWheel states as soon as a Tent City opens it starts to attract services and support. Well, I've been trying to present free non-profit health services for weeks now with no one wanting to meet with me. Even Father Dave didn't want my materials. Father Dave recommended I see Mr. Marrow but he doesn't seem to care either about how these services that could help some residents recover and find jobs. All Mr. Morrow could say was he is in and out of TC4 once a day. All I could ask was could he please call me on my cell Monday or Tuesday when he had a moment. Do the operators of TC4 really want to help their residents return to a normal life OR just tent them?

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Saturday, March 21: Comment from a mental health community leader -- "From my limited experience, residents may not have an official diagnosis, or, may not want to be associated with anything other than 'temporary involuntary poverty/misfortune'. Too bad that the stigma of mental illness is so great. "

A response: Why not "kill two stigmas with one 'stone' by treating brain disorders -- a root cause of homelessness? Plausible answers: It takes "two stones". Both 'stigmas' are co-morbid and must be treated at the same time for recovery from both mental health & homelessness.

Saturday, March 24: According to the National Resources Center on Homelessness approximately 20-25% of homeless have serious mental illness. Great website :

http://www.nrchmi.samhsa.gov/facts/facts_question_1.asp

Though St. Jude's and ShareWheel administration appear disinterested in free, mental health recovery programs, local resources are available to assist TC4 residents for their recovery and job finding.

TC4 and permanent neighborhood residents may contact: HERO HOUSE, 425-614-1282. www.herohouse.org. They have free van pick-up services and $2 meals. Lots of computers. Confidential statement from medical practitioners is required for membership. I left Hero House brochures on the bulletin board several days ago.

Tuesday, March 29: The TC4 appeals occurred tonight. As they say, you can't fight city hall. My neighbor was an appellant. He put in hours & days of work for his appeal. When I asked him why he appealed his core answer was because the ShareWheel non-profit cared more about their survival and homeless mission than caring for their residents.

-Monday, April 15: quiet and peaceful since my last log -in. Father Dave says most all of his residents are from the Eastside. I have an acquaintance who's relative joined TC4, in part for social "treatment" (therapy) for a serious brain disorder. She was difficult to live with at her relatives home.

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Two comments & decision from Father Dave on caring for the health of Tent City residents:

Wednesday, April 25: I informed Father Dave of the synergies of Hero House (for psychiatric rehab) and TC4. Both organizations heal, in a large part, by removing the afflicted from their isolation. Father Dave responded: "...Bruce, the camp coordinator for Tent City 4 [received the information on HERO HOUSE]. He was very appreciative. He said that he would share it also with the Share-Wheel organizers so that there may be increased knowledge about the program and, hopefully, greater usage. Again, any information can be left at the reception desk at the entry of T-city." -FATHER DAVE

&&&&&&&&&

Thanks for the information on Hero House. Sounds like a great program. Being local, it will also likely well serve Tent City 4 Residents after the move to the Church of the Resurrection next month. I will pass on the information to Tent City. Any brochures, etc. can be left at the entrance Tent at Tent City at any time. These could then be left available to current and future residents of the camp. The turn over is extensive. It is great to hear about the many who have found jobs, apartments, and otherwise improved their lot.

Thanks again,

Fr. Dave Rogerson
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Friday, 4/27: HERO HOUSE HOME PAGE http://www.herohouse.org/index.html

I dropped some literature, confidentiality info, and membership aps. for HH at TC4.

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,Saturday 4/28/07
EXCELLENT SITE ON HOMELESSNESS & MENTAL HEALTH - (excerpt below) http://www.nrchmi.samhsa.gov/facts/

"Over a five-year period, about 2–3 percent of the U.S. population (5–8 million people) will experience at least one night of homelessness. For the great majority of these people, the experience is short and often caused by a natural disaster, a house fire, or a community evacuation.2

A much smaller group, perhaps as many as 500,000 people, have greater difficulty ending their homelessness. As one researcher who examined a sample of this group over a two-year period found:3

Most—about 80%—exit from homelessness within about 2–3 weeks. They often have more personal, social, and economic resources to draw on than people who are homeless for longer periods of time.

About 10% are homeless for up to two months, with housing availability and affordability adding to the time they are homeless.

Another group of about 10% is homeless on a chronic, protracted basis—as long as 7–8 months in a two-year period. Disabilities associated with mental illnesses and substance use are common. On any given night, this group can account for up to 50% of those seeking emergency shelter. (
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Thursday, May 3: I attended the 16th Annual "Mayor's Prayer breakfast" hosted by St. Jude's Church and led by the City Chaplain. Mayoral candidates Coumcilmember Jim Robinson and Holly Plackett were present. Afterward, I took a tour of tent city. My eyes opened to the definition of "homelessness". Many of the residents simply use the "city" for a way to save money before "moving on". One fellow from Arizona was saving up money before heading out to work in an Alaskan cannery. He was sending $$ to his 8-year old daughter. He said that 70% of the 74 residents at TC4 were out working to day or looking for work. Another resident was saving $$ by living in TC4 while she awaited a $50K grant for a an Indian-based resort she was building in the Aleutians. She is on LT disability and was also getting her leg rehabilitated. She owns 4 houses in Alaska, including a 3200sf home on the water. I met one of the few residents who is from Redmond. He's lived in TC4 for 2 years and seemed interested in the Hero House. He's a computer whiz. I was told there was another Redmond native living in TC4 with "old money" i.e. he's rich. He stays low.

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THE ST. JUDE TENT WEBSITE LOG OF TENT CITY 4

http://stjude-redmond.org/Bulletin/TC4.htm

I plan to write about my experiences with TC4 residents, the TC4 process and my personal mission -- in my "Citizen Watch" column of the Redmond Reporter for May 23.

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Tuesday, May 15 - a neighbor who first "warned" me about TC4 coming to town in November told me a TC4 crime had occurred on May 9th. It was a burglary by an evicted TC4 resident. (the eviction was 5 days prior to the incident). The 30-year old man is being held in King County jail on $10,000 bail. The neighbor said this man had door-belled for money and was drinking, but city police could not confirm this claim.

Tent City is pulling up the stakes this Saturday, 5/19 and heading off to the Church of the Resurrection in Bellevue. Father Dave wants Tent City back on his property again pending approval from his parish and a nod from the city. Permits would have to be applied for, just as before.

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5/21/07 - the stakes are pulled; I think I saw them start to "tear down" last Friday. I think a fellow from the Hero House is living at TC4-Bellevue now. He may have been one of the earlier Hero House members. I hope he gets it together enough to encourage others in need to find comfort (and jobs) at the Hero House. I plan to do some testimonial effort in Bellevue, myself. It's raining hard right tonight. I wonder how they are doing.

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5/26/07 - I'll be closing the book on this diary after this entry. I wrote two new blogs on tent city & mental health statistics & "my observations and recommendations for a better tent city". I thought Father Dave's TC4 was for the most part very successful. The community is "softened" to the homeless and it should be a lot easier to find acceptance when they come back to Redmond. If they can keep the crime to a minimum, as they have, TC4 should do well. Calling in police during evictions is the best recommendation I could make to minimize crime. Providing some treatment options for mental health / sobriety care is just as important. TC4 brings in a mobile dental unit; Starbucks brings in their coffee; why not a behavioral health physician's assistant visit, a Hero House transportation service, and AA meetings? These services should be ready and waiting at each new tent city location. There is not excuse not to do so. Sharewheel should be ready to step up to their client's needs. Encampment permitting presidents have been set. TC's WILL go in, whether or not we acknowledge the large populations of seriously mentally ill homeless (23%) and the 60+% incidence of homeless alcoholism. So, let's step up and care for these folks besides putting a "roof" over their heads.

Writing my column on TC4 was a challenge. I tried to be fair. And, my focus was on mental health care owing to my brother dying from lack of good care. You can find the column in "Community Group". My parting thought is, I will somewhat miss my transient neighbors to some exent and would have accepted them staying on a month or two longer. The encampment was exceptionally quiet when I visited it and I never felt "the blight" that others talked about. Farewell.

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2/4/07 - 4 to 3 lane conversion on 166th Avenue

-----Original Message-----
From: Bob Yoder [mailto:bob.yoder@comcast.net]
Sent: Friday, June 08, 2007 10:25 AM
To: Council; Rosemarie Ives
Cc: Holly Plackett; Stewart, Sue-Safety; Don Cairns
Subject: TIP - Proposed 166th Ave NE rechannelization

RE: Transportation Improvement Projects (TIP) COMMENT. It is my understanding we have an opportunity to comment on various proposed TIP projects, at this time.

I recommend Council approve the rechannelization of 166th from 4 lanes to 3 lanes. Even my wife is now complaining of how hard it is becoming to take left turns; and the traffic "tsunami" is still off in the distance. We live near 166th Ave. right off of NE 100st.

To convenience the truck traffic (and cars following them) I agree with the idea of 4 lanes towards the bottom of 166th.

I cringe when I see students, families, and seniors walking down the narrrow sidwalks on 166th, especially where the road bends. The AVE is unsafe for bicyclists - I am one. A wider bike lane would be safer for both bicyclists and pedestrians. Cars would move slower and it would be safer for them, as well.

Three lanes with a stop light at the 104th & 166th intersection is needed...or will be soon...for student safety and circulation and access to RJH. Connecting both 166th Ave. parking lots may improve circulation. I'm not sure what to do about the buses.

The 4:3 conversion on 166th Ave. had already been tried and proven and with little public input prior to the conversion. If we keep dilly-dallying around we will lose our opportunity. One public meeting is all that should be needed -- considering CAC, council & PC meetings and other opportunities have been offerred to the public.

We paid top dollar for a professional, qualified consultant. Let's use his advice! We follow qualified consultant's advice assiduously on most other development projects. Why not here, when objective advice is most needed?

If we don't build 3-lanes with wider sidewalks and bike lanes --a racy, noisy, congested 166th Ave. will turn our quality of life into a REAL DRAG.

2/2/07, Debt financing - Could council be so bold?!

-- at this time, Mr. Marchione has no campaign website 03/28/07

Council member John Resha led discussion on the city's Capital Improvement Program (CIP) last meeting. However, all eyes pointed to Council member John Marchione for his professional advice and recommendations on the use of debt financing. After all, Mr. Marchione is the Director of Finance and Administration at the Meydenbauer Center in Bellevue.

Why even consider debt financing when the CIP is awash in cash? [Marchione reminded council that 50% of this cash is tied up in utility reserves.] Besides, the city has rarely borrowed in the past. Marchione came up with three limited situations when debt financing is justified:

to fund growth (to pay for growth)
to pay for long term assets greater than 30 years out. (not parks)
when money is cheap
John agreed with Council member Kimberly Allen's reasoning - in times of escalating costs, debt financing can fix costs; and opportunities can be realized.

Council member Jim Robinson reasoned borrowing can move capital projects faster towards completion. For instance, without borrowing funds the Bear Creek Parkway project ($36M) and stormwater/sewer project ($40M) could never be built at the same time.

The political will of Council to focus development on the downtown - first and foremost - is strong. North Redmond infrastructure needs (NE 116th St.) may be put on hold, though debt financing may per chance free up funds for roads.

The only Council member adamantly against debt financing is Richard Cole, CPA. Mr. Cole didn't see the value while frequently fretting about "the burden borrowing will place on future Councils." Surrounding municipalities disagree. They've successfully been borrowing to leverage growth opportunities for years.

Times change, and as Mayor Ives stated, it helps to be flexible with caution. Council member McCormick had little to say.

2/1/2007

1/23/07, Developer defends leveling trees

On January 24 the second stand of majestic poplar trees on Camwest "Tyler Creek" property came crashing down. The bordering East Valley Heights neighborhood is furious. A promise had been broken.

Neighborhood leaders insist their community was repeatedly told by the city and Camwest "how lucky they were to be working with such a generous builder...who had made concessions to keep the Poplar trees along the border or E. Valley Heights & Tyler Creek." Not only did the trees provide a nostalgic reminder of the old farm but the trees assist drainage.

According to Camwest, their decision about how to manage the Poplars would be based on the final lot configuration. They made no promises to the community to save the trees during the public review process, though some neighbors couldn't remember.

WHY didn't the city clarify the conditional intentions? WHY didn't the city respond directly to these neighbors when project planning was underway?

Council President McCormick's after-the-fact response was a commiserating tactic of "feel, felt, found". McCormick's findings? The Constitution -- allowing property owners to use their property -- is "the culprit". Not so sure about that! The problem is the city. The city gives "permission" i.e. PERMITS to use the land according to city standards and values. In this case, the city has no standard of conduct. Most unfortunate.

In the least, the city should require one new tree be planted for every fallen tree. More critical - these Poplars were healthy and not a hazard to the community. Camwest removed them primarily because they were "unsightly" and didn't fit with the project entryway.

The City development department is partly responsible for 'trashing' our neighborhood culture. "Together we make a community of good neighbors?" Remember Mayor Ives motto?

[Harkness,McCormick,& emails archived in the Government Email Group on the front page] 1/29/2007

1/23/07, Redmond Ranked Tops for Kids!

This is a picture I took of children on Perrigo Springs Woodland Trail, during the "Friends of Redmond Woodlands", FORW fundraiser. Children in Redmond, WA. are lucky! Really lucky.

Lori Snodgrass, Parks Board member, gave us the heads-up; then yesterday morning Q13 FOX TV announced from Marymoor Park some very exciting news: Redmond is ranked in the nation's TOP 100 "Best Communities for Young People" by "America's Promise Alliance". Out of 750 other schools applying, Redmond was specifically selected for it's array of safe and fun after-school activities.

The America's Promise Alliance was founded in 2005 by Colin L. Powell. City selections were made by over 50 Alliance members, including: U.S. Conference of Mayors, and Big Brothers/Sisters. Tim Russert of Meet the Press, Brian Gallagher the United Way President, and Tom Donohue of the US Commerce are a few of the decision-makers.

So how is Redmond so special in providing an array of safe and fun after-school activities? I've brainstormed a few from parenting my 14 year old daughter and 7 years of "Lunch Buddy" mentoring. Here goes:

See the kids running along the Perrigo Woodland trail in the photo? No question it's safer and more fun commuting to school on this trail than taking a bus. Redmond is loaded with neighborhood trail connections. Ann Glassy, administrator of the Lunch Buddy Mentoring Program at Mann, directs kids to the Redmond El Neighborhood Program for afterschool enrichment. The Redmond Old Fire House provides after school activities for teenagers aged 13-19. An Eastside Services Counselor is available at the Fire House for high risk kids needing help on teen issues. 425-810-4083. youtheastsideservices.org The Outdoor Skateboard Park and Perrigo Dirt Bike Course keeps kids off the roads and having fun. Explorers 16 years and older are recruited to help the police on safety issues. & Sports - on lit fields with artificial turf in Redmond's Hartman, Grasslawn, & Perrigo city parks -- all well maintained and 'safe'. Redmond Recreation Guide! http://redmond.gov/insidecityhall/parksrecGuide/guide.asp
America's Promise Alliance has shown that to succeed in life, young people must experience at least four of the Five Promises -- 1) caring adults, 2) safe places, 3) a healthy start, 4) effective education, 5) opportunities to help others. Less than 1 in 3 young people in the nation receive enough of these promises.

Aren't we lucky! 1/23/07

1/19/07, Land-use Appellant - "Wanted, Dead or Alive"

When Walt, my father-in-law from northern California, first heard about my land use appeals at Mosaic Meadows (NE 116th) and Avondale Crest ( NE 104th) he yelled, he wouldn't be caught dead driving around town with me! When he heard I was taking pictures of Evans Creek industrial land in SE Redmond, he warned I may as well be walking around with "Wanted, Dead or Alive" stenciled on my forehead!

Walt is the classic good 'ole boy generational landowner. He's lived on his homestead all 82 years of his life, operating construction equipment and raising Rambouillet. Lately, Walt's been draining small wetlands on his land with a neighbor's backhoe. His father, Porter, owned hundreds of acres off land in California and founded the Blue Goose fruit co-op. Walt doesn't want any "do-gooders" messing around with people's property.

So, why did I choose "to meddle" with the used-car salesman and landowner of a 5-acre parcel, Mosaic Meadows? After all, it's his 5th Amendment constitutional right: "nor shall private property be taken for the public use without just compensation." Land rights are sacred in America!

I, too, love the land and consider it sacred. My 2nd cousin, Ramsey, is the largest chrysanthemum grower in the country www.yoder.com . I own rental property. I don't hang a rifle in my pick-up or listen to Rush 24/7, but I will challenge the actions of land owners and city development planners when laws protecting sensitive areas could be violated. Sensitive areas are finite. Land has no "voice". I am an advocate for land.

The Critical Area ordinance HERE, was passed by the State of Washington and City of Redmond in 2005 to protect the sensitive areas of streams, wetlands, steep slopes, priority habitat and species, wellhead aquifers, flood zones). Some land owners driven by greed push for below standard buffers. Corrupt or mismanaged jurisdictions may look the other way. In Redmond, it's mostly a matter of mistakes being made.

My appeal of the "Mosaic Meadows" plat was triggered by a "Notice of Application". 13 lots are crammed between two wetlands, a stream, steep slopes a few Landmark trees, a pond, with no place for conventional storm water treatment. The stream ultimately drained into Bear Creek. I found a wet vault on a steep grade too close to a quality wetland. The developer will be especially careful now.

During the Appeal Hearing, the deck is heavily stacked against the appellant, as follows:

1) "The burden of proof" is on the appellant. This burden is close to insurmountable! The developer doesn't have to prove a thing. City Staff actually speaks for the developer during the Hearing and defends his project. Staff, usually Judd Black jblack@redmond.gov, 'attacks' your claims when defending their "standards".

2) Expert witnesses cost $1K - 3K. Scientific articles and studies hold less weight than Redmond's planners and their studies. The Hearing Examiner usually weighs staff standards over a citizen expert witness.

4) Redmond's Hearing Examiner, Mr. Crandall, is contracted and paid by the city for services rendered. It is no wonder our 80 year-old Examiner hasn't once awarded a full decision FOR the appellant in all the years records have been kept by the present Clerk @ "The Office of the Hearing Examiner", City Hall.

5) The Public Notice and Review process is so difficult to read & understand that it's not uncommon for citizens to miss an important Hearing or even appeal the wrong permit!

6) Best chances for winning an appeal may occur at the Council level, but by then most citizens have worn out by the prolonged process.

A successful appellant needs lots of time & persistence, enjoy science & researching project files, ordinances, and the Redmond Community Development Guide http://www.codepublishing.com/WA/redmond.html, & motivate neighbors. The real win comes during preparation for the appeal when mistakes are uncovered. No one's perfect.

With hard work, one WILL make a positive impact on a project. Besides, keeping staff on their toes, you are sure to find key elements of the Review needing some attention. Safety, welfare, and quality of life improvements can be achieved.

"Doing good" IS good.

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* *For an excellent example of modern day Public Notice is City of Kirkland's permit site: www.kirklandpermits.net/ - Bellevue, Issaquah, Duvall, Seattle and on - all utilize on-line permitting.

A good 'ole boy planning commissioner proclaimed: "nobody ever reads our public notices anyway...." so why change or improve our notice policies? 2006

1/11/07 Election 2007! Let the games begin!

scroll down for updates

2007 is a BIG YEAR for our city with the elections just around the corner. Four council positions are up for grabs (Cole, Marchione, Resha, Robinson), all with terms expiring 12/31/07. Last year Mayor Rosemarie Ives announced she would not to run again. With the thin line-up of mayoral candidates filing many hope the winds will change for Rosemarie. They Mayor's salary has been raised to over $125,000, plus travel perks.

One cannot dispute THE GAMES ARE ON! Political undercurrents of the pending elections will pitch and roll the governing process for the rest of the year. Accurate assessment of the activities of mayor, council, commissions and yes, staff, necessitates factoring in election politics.
A significant segment of our city population works for Microsoft, other high-technology companies or are Microsoft retirees. If YOU or a Microsoft contact is exploring the idea of running for an office, please contact:

The King County Board of Elections, 500 4th Ave. Rm 533 Seattle, WA. 98104 206-296-8683, elections@metrokc.gov ; http://www.metroke.gov/elections/

High-technology workers have never been represented on council; and to the outside world, Redmond is Microsoft! 12000 new MS workers will work here soon! Citizens, please consider service to your city. Encourage your friends. ["Perks": You'll be on TV every week, recieve admiration & recognition, be entrusted with power, shape the city, and receive the princely salary of $800/month! J ]

UPDATE: Microsoft employee and Redmond native, Brian Seitz is running for Council vs. Mr Carson. I wish Brian well. EMAIL: brianseitz@hotmail.com

With all that's up for grabs this year we can expect quite a commotion, some good head fakes and not-so-good moves from our “The Starting Line-Up” , The Bench, and the Coach's Draft.

“THE STARTING LINE-UP” FOR COUNCIL:
Richard Cole – filed to run for council; as of 4/15 unopposed POSITION #5, TERM EXPIRES 12/31/07 Member, Public Administration and Finance Committee Member, Public Safety Committee Richard Cole, now in his fifth term on the Council, was first elected to a term beginning in 1988. Originally from Logan, Utah, Richard has resided in Redmond's North Redmond and Education Hill neighborhood for over 24 years.
VS.
Michella -----------

John Marchione – filed to run for mayor ; Brian Conlin is running for Resha's seat; Hank Myers is running unchallenged for Marchione's seat.

Position #1 POSITION #1, TERM EXPIRES 12/31/07 Marchione is Chair, Public Administration and Finance Committee Member, Planning and Public Works Committee
WEBSITE: http://www.johnmarchione.com/ NEW VIDEO !

John is Director of Finance and Human Resources at Meydenbauer Center. He has experience in local government finance and management. He holds a Masters of Public Administration from the University of Washington and a BA from Seattle University. John grew up in Redmond and lives on Education Hill with his wife and two children. This is his first term on the City Council.

John Resha * 5/16/07 - announced he will NOT be running for re-election. POSITION #3, TERM EXPIRES 12/31/07 Chair, Planning and Public Works Committee Member, Parks and Human Services Committee John has served on the Redmond City Council since January 2004. Originally from Southern California, he has lived in Redmond since 1998 and currently resides in the Education Hill neighborhood. John works for UrbanTrans Consulting.

"Hank" Margeson announced in today's 5/12 Reporter he would be running for John Resha's council seat. Mr. Resha has yet to make an announcement if he would run. Hank has put in many years of service as a Park Board Member and is currently Vice-Chair. Recently, he took a leadership role on the levy proposal to Council (tag "parks-commission" for the story). Hank is a 14 year resident of Redmond and lives on Education Hill where he was an active Education Hill CAC member. He wants to build a spirit of teamwork with the council and mayor and values being in close touch with his neighbors. Hank has been active in youth sports as a coach and umpire.

Jim Robinson * 2/21 announcement he is running for Mayor - in the "Redmond Reporter" POSITION #7, TERM EXPIRES 12/31/07 Chair, Parks and Human Services Committee Member, Public Administration and Finance Committee. http://robinsonformayor.com/ NEW VIDEO !!

Jim has been a member of the Redmond City Council since January, 1992. He has lived in Redmond since 1983 and resides in the Grass Lawn neighborhood west of Marymoor Park. Jim was born and raised in Everett and works for the Boeing Company as a financial analyst. He has a BA Political Science from Willamette University, a Master of International Management from American Graduate of International Management, and a MBA from Seattle University.
Dave Carson running for Robinson's council seat


INTERNET PAGE: http://youngrepublicans.meetup.com/86/members/435937/
vs.
Brian Seitz is running for Robinson's council seat EMAIL: brianseitz@hotmail.com
WEBSITE: http://www.electbrianseitz.com/ NEW VIDEO !!
Holly Plackett - filed for Mayor (past Redmond Council member (4 years), Planning Commissioner (6 years); supports our present Strong Mayor form of government. http://www.hollyplackett.com/ VIDEO!

"PLAYERS ON THE BENCH” and well-prepared to enter the Game:
Suzanne Querry, (Planning Commissioner for years; moderate, Starbuck's executive)
Lori Snodgrass (Parks Board Chair, parks commissioner- 9 years- resigned 6/07)
Other than Ms. Holly Plackett, none of the above 'benched' players have told me they are ready to play at this stage of the game, if at all. To say the least, the roster is thin.

Possible recruits for "THE COACH'S DRAFT" and being bantered around:
Kimberly Allen, Council member – for mayor
a civic-minded MSN "butterfly" or 2
Who did I miss? Hopefully, and for the good health of our fair city of Redmond, qualified candidates will step forward!!

If you or someone you know is thinking of running or an office or have questions about how to run, please contact : The King County Board of Elections, 500 4th Ave. Rm 533 Seattle, WA. 98104 206-296-8683, elections@metrokc.gov ; If I can help you, please email me at redmondblog@gmail.com

I will be updating this site on a regular basis. Of final note, some encouragement from Council member Jim Robinson: " ...in 2007 there will be four council positions open and the mayor’s position open. I would encourage one and all to run for council or mayor." -Jim Robinson,
Council Member, 12/30/06

Election commentary by Korby Parnell, Redmond Planning Commissioner http://blogs.msdn.com/korbyp/archive/2007/03/07/passing-the-community-torch-in-search-of-a-new-chief-executive-in-redmond.aspx#comments

Holly Plackett, mayoral candidate, 2/22/07. ..."on filing, we (candidates) don't have to indicate which council seat is being selected --- the same is true for the Mayor's seat -- until the first week of June we can switch and run for a council seat if we chose. ...We can't file for two offices at the same time however -- if we chose to run for Mayor the first week in June, then we are committed to that race."

The Redmond Neighborhood Blog is not endorsing mayoral or council candidates at this time. 4/27/07

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.

12/2/06, Tent City, public process & mental health

A Public Meeting for the proposed Tent City on St. Jude Church property (NE 104th St. & 166th Ave) will be held on Wednesday 12/13 at 7 pm at the Redmond Junior High School.
The meeting is required by the City as part of the permit approval process. To get on the mailing list for the project call Steve Fischer (425-556-2432) or email at sfischer@redmond.gov. Steve is a city planner and will keep you posted on future developments.
The permit may me appealed by any citizen who becomes "a party of record". To become a party of record (P.O.R.) you must call or email Steve Fischer with your comments by December 13. Commenting and/or attending the Public Meeting gives you the right to appeal the project if you wish. This commenting process is true for any land use project.
If you attended the Informational Meeting at the church two weeks ago you are already on the mailing list for updates and on the record.
On another note: It was brought up at the Informational Meeting that up to 18% of the homeless at Tent Cities have a brain disorder. Based on my 5 year experience of selling psychotropic medications to psychiatrists I can tell you the incidence is probably higher than 18%. One in five families experience a serious mental health illness in a given year. Brain disorders are much more common than we would think. Though, the stigma persists. By keeping an open mind with the tent city we all can make a positive contribution to overcoming stigma in our neighborhood. We can accept Redmond residents challenged by poor brain health. A solution for Tent City residents afflicted with poor brain health is "The Hero House"
"The Hero House" near Redmond is a "club house" where Tent City residents and others with a diagnosed mental illness can go for social and job finding support. The Hero House is a compassionate organization helping their "members" rehabilitate, recover and find work. Member candidates and volunteers can apply by calling Erica Horn, Executive Director at 425-614-1294.
I attended a fundraiser last night for "The Hero House" and Erica said Tent City residents who qualified would be welcome at the club house. What an excellent social and job finding resource for qualified Tent City residents who need a constructive outlet from empty hours of encampment! Keep in mind, The Hero House services are open to our entire neighborhood.
Over $40,000 was raised last night at the fundraiser. Over 6 computer work stations are available for job hunting and skill development, a kitchen, library, and snack bar. Each member has chores. It's one of the most progressive centers in the United States.
***Regier DA, Marrow WE, Rae DS, et al. Archives of General Psychiatry, 1993
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HERO HOUSE HOME PAGE http://www.herohouse.org/
NATIONAL ALLIANCE FOR THE MENTALLY ILL - REDMOND OFFICE http://www.nami-eastside.org/
NATIONAL RESOURCE CENTER ON TRAINING OF HOMLESSNESS & MENTAL HEALTH http://www.nrchmi.samhsa.gov/facts/facts_question_1.asp excellent site!
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"Thanks for the information on Hero House http://www.herohouse.org/. Sounds like a great program. Being local, it will also likely well serve Tent City 4 Residents after the move to the Church of the Resurrection next month. I will pass on the information to Tent City. Any brochures, etc. can be left at the entrance Tent at Tent City at any time. These could then be left available to current and future residents of the camp. The turn over is extensive. It is great to hear about the many who have found jobs, apartments, and otherwise improved their lot."
Thanks again,
Fr. Dave Rogerson, 4/25/07

12/04/06, Avondale Crest PRD land use - poor planning

12/4/06 Avondale Crest land use - poor planning
Dear friends & neighbors,
I've decided to withdraw my appeal of Avondale Crest SP. Extensive research of the file, multiple meetings with traffic and stormwater city planners, and input from the Dept. of Ecology is proof enough to me the City is "meeting standards". I am withdrawing my appeal after one last communication with the Dept. Of Ecology today. Thank you for your willingness to support me as co-appealant.
The Public Meeting for the PRD is still on for Dec. 11, 7 pm. I won't be attending unless something big comes out of the D.O.E. I think Miguel said it best. To be successfull in stopping irrational developments we need to allocate our energy with the Planning Commission on solving the root problems.
It seems once an permit application is under Review it is all but guaranteed in Redmond, perhaps with minor adjustments. In the case of Avondale Crest, one individual's $165,000 investment will create havoc on the safety, welfare, and quality of life of many, many Redmond residents. Road safety, traffic congestion, wellhead water quality, in-stream habitat, fire safety, deforestation and landslide issues rise up from a misplaced 9-home project.
The land was zoned for 3-homes for a reason. We must ask the Planning Commission and Council to put a stop to these sensitive & poorly planned Short Plat PRD's approved for their density alone.
The below string of emails with Ecology is self-explanatory.
Best regards,
Bob Yoder
----- Original Message -----
From: Bob Yoder
To: Abbasi, Ed (ECY) , Dept. of Ecology
Sent: Monday, December 04, 2006 8:14 AM
Subject: Re: follow-up with Mr. Dendy, City of Redmond
Thank you, Mr. Abbasi. I look forward to your feedback from Mr. Dendy. I will proceed with an inspection of the inlets to the bio-swale to make sure water is flowing out of the Avondale pipe. Should you conclude all is well and good I will terminate my appeal to save all parties time and money. Thank your support on this project and I look forward to your feedback from Mr. Dendy today or tomorrow. He should be in today.
Regards,
Bob Yoder