Former city councilmember Richard Grubb speaks up on local politics

Candidates filled with empty cliches

OPINION: How is it that those seeking public office in Redmond over the last couple of election cycles all seem to have been scooped from the same bucket of vanilla ice cream?

A safe, livable city; a vibrant downtown; efficient transportation; fiscal responsibility; sensible—as if there were such a thing—growth; preserve Redmond’s character and so on.
I mean, who doesn’t want those things?

Young, old, male, female, the candidates seem to offer only clichéd, ditto politics. A little imagination is probably too much to expect from politicians and would-be politicians these days, but it would be refreshing to hear from some candidate who gives a small indication that he or she has thought beyond the ordinary and banal.

And those who think that a mayor and council marching in lockstep is good for a community should do a short review of history. Unitary governments, more often than not, lead to a can-do-no-wrong arrogance and authoritarianism. Good government comes out of a clash of ideas. The creative tension of opposing philosophies results in a policy that, while not always perfect, tends to serve the common good rather than a few special interests.

When Jim Robinson was on the council he was, at least, willing to put forth positions and policies that others were afraid to broach. Without council members such as Mr. Robinson who are willing to ask questions that probe and test the conventional and commonplace wisdom of the day, sameness and mediocrity will prevail. It seems as if that may be what we are in for in Redmond.

This time around I think I will write-in none of the above.

Richard L. Grubb, Redmond
(past Redmond Councilmember)

-- SOURCE: the local Redmond Reporter, 6/18/09

Comments to this OPINION are posted below.

Eastside high school teens find work with Dept. of Ecology cleaning up highway litter.

BELLEVUE - High-school-age youths will return to Washington road sides next week to clean up litter tossed by motorists.

Each summer, teens aged 14 to 17 work four-week paid stints in the Ecology Youth Corps (EYC). Statewide, 200 teens are gearing up to clean litter from freeway shoulders and interchanges. The EYC will perform about 40 percent fewer hours of clean up compared to 2008, due to a $4.5 million reduction to the state's 2009-11 budget for litter prevention.

The Washington Department of Ecology (Ecology), which operates the litter cleanup program, urges motorists to use extra caution when they see the orange "Ecology youth working" signs along state highways.

"These are kids from your neighborhood," said Steven Williams, EYC's coordinator. "We work hard to keep them safe and every driver needs to stay alert when passing a litter crew. We're proud of the work our youths do to helpkeep our environment clean." The young people receive $8.55 per hour.

Last year, the EYC collected more than 1.1 million pounds of litterfrom roadsides and medians across the state, with nearly 450,000 pounds of it collected in King, Kitsap, Pierce, Skagit, Snohomish and Whatcom counties.

EYC lives up to its name as an "Ecology" corps through extensive recycling to reduce its carbon footprint. In 2008 EYC recycled 10.2tons of aluminum, 55.9 tons of scrap metal, 4.5 tons of plastic bottlesand 19.1 tons of glass. This recycling offset 33,320 gallons of fuel, far more than the 23,424 gallons of fuel used by EYC in 2008.

Litter-Crew Training, June 29: Arrive 11:30 to noon for the most interesting activities. Spirit Ridge Park 16100 SE 33rd Pl., Bellevue

--NEWS RELEASE, DEPARTMENT OF ECOLOGY, 6/22/09.

The 2009 application session has ended for this year. Please contact the City of Redmond at www.redmond.gov or mayor@redmond.gov to plan for 2010. b.y.

Littering can draw fines up to $1,025. Fines for illegal dumping are $1,000 to $5,000 plus jail time. To report litter coming from a vehicle, call toll-free to 866-LITTER-1 (866-548-8371).

Contacts: Steven Williams, EYC coordinator, 425-649-77048
Ecology Youth Corps: http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/swfa/eyc/

Litter: http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/swfa/litter/

New traffic intersections called "roundabouts" are planned for Redmond

Short video on how a modern "roundabout" works and why it's safe. (1+min.) click

The City is in early planning stages for "roundabouts" on:

• 36th Street
• West Lake Sammamish Blvd near 43th Street
• NE 116th Street (two roundabouts)
• Novelty Hill & Union Hill (2-lanes)

Last night, Council studied the utility of modern roundabouts (RAB) for possible replacement of several future intersections. The 36th Street roundabout has already been approved. They specifically studied the impact of a roundabout in the View Point Neighborhood on West Lake Sammamish Blvd and 43rd Street. It's unfunded at this time.

Richard Cole was concerned about cars driving down the streets (7) from the west onto W. Lake Sammamish. His questions about their ability to turn left were answered by David Carson. Mr. Carson lives on one of these streets and felt by using the roundabout he could make a safer and faster "left hand turn". (W. Lake Samm. Blvd. is planned for 4-lanes without a turn lane).

From my teenager days of driving "Hawthorn Circle" on the Saw Mill River Parkway in New York, I thought today's modern "roundabouts" might be dangerous. (Wrong.) When driving the Circle, I'd always get tense and stressed trying to merge into it. The cars moved so fast on the circle. I even remember my grandfather almost having a collision (and he didn't even know it!). In actuality, driving modern roundabouts is not a new skill and it's easier and much safer than driving through intersections.

The above video clip tells most of the story on how a roundabout works. According to Pat McGrady, the RAB consultant presenting to Council, modern roundabouts of today are safer than circles and intersections for vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists, as follows:

• 140 roundabouts exist in Washington State, yet not one collision with a pedestrian or cyclist has been reported.
• In a comparison study of 55 sites vs. intersections, roundabouts had 35% fewer crashes and 76% of the collisions were less severe.
• Clips of a visually impaired pedestrians w/aid dog where shown crossing the street. In a RAB, vehicles approach pedestrians only from the left, yet by training, the dog looked both ways!
• Cyclists can travel faster than vehicles through a RAB since traffic flow in all one-way.
• Pedestrians don't have that silver button to hit again and again to cross.

For more information, the City has a traffic calming web page on roundabouts.

Video clip: http://www.iihs.org/video.aspx/info/roundabout

Contact: Dave Cairns, City Traffic Manager, dcairns@redmond.gov

Updated: Ross Hunter and Kathy Lambert respond to State Audit - many issues need to be resolved.

Updated: FROM ROSS HUNTER'S PRESS RELEASES of 6/23/09
"The State Audit of King County Finances was released today. The report found that King County's internal financial controls are a combination of numerous systems with significant holes, leaving the system open for potential abuse of public funds.

"It's clear that King County government has been grossly mismanaged by the executive and existing council offices," says Hunter. "This audit proves that current government has been asleep at the wheel. The next executive must be someone who comes from outside county government and has real experience managing budgets."

[Phillips called for interim director Triplett to come up with a plan to address the situation within 60 days, while Dow asked that a King County Audit Commission be created.

"Calling for a plan now is like yelling for the horses after you left the barn door open all night," says Hunter.]

Hunter wants to replace the antiquated accounting system with a modern computer system to manage county government, create cooperatives with local cities to streamline processes, and to readjust the permitting process. "We cannot achieve our housing, transportation and public health goals without seriously changing how we do business. I am ready to tackle the problems facing King County and get out financial systems in order."

- Former Microsoft Executive Ross Hunter is a four-term legislator from the 48th Legislative District on the Eastside. He is Chair of the Finance Committee in the Washington State House of Representatives.

FROM KATHY LAMBERT, by email on June 23, '09
"There is a county audit that came out this morning. It has many issues that need to be resolved. The basis of the issue is that the county charter does not allow the council to have direct oversight of the departments. This is a strong home rule charter county where the executive has more powers than I think are appropriate for one branch of government. This is the 14th largest county in the nation and should have more people doing oversight of more details than our charter allows."

- Kathy Lambert, King County Councilmember serves Redmond, Woodinville, NE Bellevue, Sammamish, Duvall, Issaquah, N. Bend, Preston...

Kathy's home page: http://www.kingcounty.gov/Lambert.aspx
Ross's home page: http://rosshunter.com/

2009 Redmond "Cops for the Cure" 3-Day Walk.

2009 Seattle Breast Cancer 3-Day
9/11-13

Join Redmond Cops for the Cure on an amazing journey in the fight against breast cancer! The Breast Cancer 3-Day is a 60-mile walk over the course of three days. Net proceeds benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure and National Philanthropic Trust, funding important research.

Cops for the Cure is a team of police officers and support personnel that walk to raise money for a cure. This will be our 5th walk. We are a team from Redmond Police Department but welcome law enforcement personnel from all over and civilians to join us in our walk to stomp out breast cancer. We walk for our loved ones who have survived, for your loved ones that have survived and in memory of those who lost the good fight!!!

-- "Cops for the Cure" website

Cops for the Cure - Register to join team
**Shari Shovlin (pictured in photo - Sheri is a Redmond Police Commander)
Kim Allen
Jim Bove
Paul Edwardsen
Sande English
Allegra Licata
Haley Shovlin
Jill Steele
Craig Werre
Kristi Wilson
**Denotes a Team Captain
Cops for the Cure 2008 Team Goal was: $23,000.00. Achieved: $10,626.00

Comment: Kimberly Allen, Councilmember, City of Redmond first told me of this event. She is one of Redmond's citizens walking with Cops for the Cure. (Kim is also "running" for re-election). I'm thinking of registering since #1 walking is a great "soft" exercise and I need it, #2 my mother died of three cancers, one of which was breast cancer and #3 I want to support Kim. Do you want to register, too? Click the link!

Website: Cops for the Cure (learn more - event headquarters.)
Register: to join and or donate to Kim's Team.
Website: Kim Allen's Page.

Background on Larry Phillips - candidate for King County Executive

From Larry Phillips, submitted by Christina Gebreab

I was born and raised in King County and I am proud to call it home. I grew up hiking in the Cascades, earning my Eagle Scout medal, swimming in Lake Washington and playing varsity basketball for my high school.

After earning a B.A. from the University of Washington in Political Science, and a law degree from Willamette University, I went to work as a legislative aide for U.S. Senator Henry “Scoop” Jackson. While working for Scoop, I earned a Masters degree in labor law from George Washington University.

In 1981, I returned home to manage Randy Revelle’s successful Democratic campaign for King County Executive and then became an integral member of his Executive Office staff, working as his Chief of Staff, serving in that capacity until 1986. In 1988, I was elected by the voters of the 36th legislative district to represent them in the Washington State House of Representatives.

As a legislator, I successfully fought for lower class sizes and better funding for education. I also was a prime sponsor of the state’s Growth Management Act to rein in urban sprawl.
After winning two terms in the legislature, the voters of King County Council District Four elected me to serve them on the Metropolitan King County Council.

As a councilmember, I have championed open space and natural resource protection, expanded local and regional parks and trails, led salmon recovery efforts, and fought for mass transit implementation and expansion.

In 2003, I was elected Chair of the King County Council and served three years in this leadership role. In 2008, I served as the chair of the council’s budget committee. I have served as the chair of the council’s budget committee four times, and despite intense budget pressures, I have made funding for human services, public health and public safety services top priorities each time.

I serve on many local boards, including Sound Transit, the Woodland Park Zoo, the WRIA 8 Salmon Recovery Council and the Cedar River Council. I am the National Co-Chair to Climate Communities, a national alliance of locally elected officials who work to secure federal funding for climate change initiatives.

My executive and management experience in both the public and private sectors and my vision for King County’s future make me the best qualified candidate to lead our region through these difficult times. I know what initiatives in King County work, how to hire and motivate people to support them, and how to successfully implement them once adopted. But I also know what needs to change, and am the only candidate with significant knowledge of county government and our region to make the changes King County needs.

As King County Executive, I will lead King County to create more family-wage jobs through development of regional infrastructure projects, to protect basic, core services like public health, public safety, transit, and human services despite our tough budget circumstances, and to protect our environment and natural resources.

--Excerpts from larryphillips.com and KCDCC questionnaire, submitted by Christina Gebreab

This is for informational purposes only and not to be construed as an endorsement. The candidate pool for King County Executive is large. I am posting background information from other candidates, as received.

I will post background information on any of those King County Executive Candidates submitting information to redmondblog@gmail.com

The cost of good water quality & what we can do.

Two water tanks adjacent Horace Mann El. were repainted inside and out, retrofitted for safety and seismically upgraded for a total cost of $2.8 million.

OPINION: There is no question, the City is investing heavily into our water supply infrastructure, water quality assurance and water conservation programs. Did you know that residents east of Lake Sammamish and the Sammamish River get all their water from the ground?

• The City has spent millions of dollars retrofitting wellheads to improve treatment and safety standards. ~$11.5 million was recently spent by the City just to upgrade the two wellheads at Anderson Park. Expensive land had to be purchased to save Anderson Park during the wellhead upgrades.
  
• The City plans to build a Regional Stormwater Treatment Center in SE Redmond to treat industrial stormwater before it infiltrates into the shallow aquifer (underground lake). A $40 million regional treatment plant is already underway for the downtown. Overlake Regional Facilty is next. Treating dirty stormwater is expensive, as you see on your utility bill, but the regional systems will reduce costs over time.
  
• Redmond is a member city of the Cascade Water Alliance. Growing eastside cities would eventually run out of drinking water without a new water source. The Alliance is raising millions of dollars to build a pipeline from the Mt. Ranier watershed to the Eastside. **Emmons glacier on Mt. Ranier is receding but plans are proceeding. Lake Tapps has been secured to store the glacial mountain water before it's piped to the Eastside.

• Redmond spends a lot of money monitoring for spills and hazardous waste. The City has it's own geologist to oversee groundwater water quality and monitor the protection zones for our wells. Recently, a potential diesel spillage was discovered and quickly addressed with funding from Council for qualified inspection services.

Some great news came out of the the City Water Quality Report, Summer 2009. Did you see it? With all the talk about the safety of our groundwater supply it appears all is well - no pun intended. Did you read that four (4) fewer "compounds" were detected in our groundwater as compared to the Tolt River watershed that supplies residents west of the river? The city's investment in our groundwater supply definitively appears to be paying off.

One of the more significant contaminants now entering our water supply are pharmaceuticals. Councilmember Margeson brought this up at the last Council meeting and handed me the information. When pills and pharmaceuticals are flushed down the toilet or thrown in the garbage they NEVER get treated. And, we could be drinking them. Low levels of pharmaceuticals in drinking water have been found in 24 cities. Get this, pharmaceutical chemicals have been found in about 80% of our nation's urban streams. Please don't flush or trash 'em! Take your unused pills to a pharmacy for disposal. Group Health, Bartell and others participate.

It's estimated that over 120,000 gallons of water is saved per day by Redmond's Conservation Program. Don't forget to tap into the toilet and clothes washer rebates and check your outdoor faucets and hoses before you go on vacation! You can save a bundle. I learned the hard way.

** Read my '07 post on the receeding glaciers that are feeding the Cascade Alliance water pipeline.

Email your questions to Tom Fix, tfix@redmond.gov, City Water Quality Team.
Cascade Water Alliance informational video clip.
Cascade Water Alliance website.

LWSD Communications wins three Media Awards.

The Lake Washington School District’s Communications Department won three awards from the Washington School Public Relations Association in its 2009 Publications and Electronic Media Awards.

Certificates of Excellence are given to all entries that score an 80 or above out of 100 from judges. Certificates of Excellence were awarded for:

• LWSD 2008-09 Calendar, Category: Calendar. Responsible for the publication: Kathryn Reith, Shannon Parthemer, Shelley Rios; Richard McNamee Photography; Stephanie Schriger, Design & Graphics

• LWSD Annual Report, Category: Annual report. Responsible for the publication: Kathryn Reith, Shannon Parthemer, Chelsea Lee

• A Message from Chip, Category: Video. Responsible for the video: Dr. Chip Kimball, Kathryn Reith, Shannon Parthemer, Sean Valley

Note: The 2008-09 calendar was the last of its kind for the district: the budget for the printed calendar was cut in this year’s budget process. A printable version of the calendar also will be available on the Web site but staff members and parents will not receive a printed calendar in August.

About Lake Washington: Lake Washington School District is a high-performing public school district serving Kirkland, Redmond, and Sammamish, Washington. It is the sixth largest district in the state of Washington, with over 23,000 students in 49 schools.

Comment: I'd like to personally thank Kathryn Reith and Shannon Parthemer for sending the Redmond Neighborhood Blog their invaluable press releases. The LWSD is such a big part of what makes Redmond, Redmond and being informed about our schools counts Big Time. Thank you, Kathryn and Shannon for everything you do for us and CONGRATULATIONS on your three awards! I'll miss you this summer! B.Y.

BMX jumpers & parents work 35 hours to improve the Water District forest.

Above are some of the amazing GreenRedmond volunteers who donated time on Saturday restoring the Hartman Greenbelt. We had a ball! CLICK ON PIC! EXPAND THE VIEW!

Updated, 6/17 - The above crew are mostly BMX dirt jumpers and their parents who donated precious time to improve the Hartman water district greenbelt. The BMX'ers use the greenbelt a lot for their BMX sport so it was rewarding to see many of them pitch in. We had 21 volunteers this day and the space looks so much better now! Several came all the way from Redmond Ridge. Mayor Marchione walked by our site asking twice what we were doing! "Building a park!" Pulling weeds! we exclaimed! He talked a little about the Council elections and how happy he was with Carolyn Hope the new Parks Planner, saying she's achieved so much in four months.

Several months ago, I went through a 6 hour training program put on by the City and Cascade Land Conservancy and PRESTO! I'm now a "Land steward" for the City's GreenRedmond Forestry Program. My job is to recruit and train volunteers who want to improve the Hartman Greenbelt. Mostly, we remove invasive plants, like Himalayan blackberries and ivy. Though, we've also found concrete waste and trash. In the Fall we will mulch and plant. This community work is rewarding in many ways. For example, #1 it's great exercise, #2 at the end of the day look at your work and are amazed about how much everyone accomplished, #3 you feel good about improving the forest habitat and appearance, #4 you meet new people, #5 students can get community credit and recognition from the City.

Norah Kates of the Cascade Conservancy summarizes: "GreenRedmond" is a partnership between the City of Redmond, the residents of Redmond, and Cascade Land Conservancy as exemplified in this photo. (Norah Kates is in the center; Chris from Parks Ops is right; Doug is the assisting steward). GreenRedmond works to restore and maintain all 1,035 acres of forested parkland in the city. So far this year we’ve gotten 215 volunteers who have donated 574 hours of their time to the Partnership, and the field season is just starting.

The Parks and Recreation department will be hosting work parties on the last Saturday of every month, there will be other events on the RedmondGreen website. So far we’re working in Farrel-McWhirter, Grass Lawn Park, Hartman Greenbelt, Idylwood Park, Viewpoint Neighborhood Park, and Westside Park/Bridle Crest Trail."

-- Norah Kates, Cascade Conservancey.

Click the pics to see all the people!

The website for GreenRedmond Partnership Land Steward is here.

Green trees deliver green benefits. - article recommended by Cascade Conservancy.

The new Sammamish Rowing Association BOATHOUSE is approved.

Sammamish Rowing Association Club is on County land and is open to the Public

The Sammamish Rowing Association (SRA) is a fantastic public asset for city and county residents wishing to take up the sport. Hundreds of youth and adults take classes every year to learn how to scull and crew on beautiful Lake Sammamish.

This popular and growing sport has needed more boathouse space for its "shells". exercise equipment and operations for years. Unfortunately, land use permitting by the county and city have delayed the project for many more years!

On June 2 the City Council held a restricted, closed public hearing so SRA and an opposing citizen could explain their case. The opponent did most all of the talking as Council had to decide if they would deny the city use permit based on the citizen's complaints. Ms. Dickson lives across the street from SRA and her primary motivation was traffic and adequate parking. She also tried to make a case for environmental damage from wetland destruction.

SRA was well prepared: 1) a left hand turn lane will be installed on Lake Sammamish Blvd. My whole family rowed at SRA and we know this improvement is critical for safety. 2) at least 15 more parking spots will be installed. 3) traffic mitigation is required, including car pooling, 3) the 12,000 sf boathouse footprint remains 150 feet from the lake, 4) a smaller wetland would be upgraded to the highest level of importance and value - Category One, and 5) hazardous wastes would be self-contained. Council approved the use permit, 7 - 0. A credit to the Mayor, it was the most professional and fairest closed-record Hearing from Council I've seen in five years. But, the appeals process is unfair.

Comment: Council's land use appeal policy : The City Council's land use appeals process (read this story & "comments") is outdated and has been abandoned by almost every city around us. The Boathouse permit is a case in point, as follows: 1) Council was not allowed to walk the site or talk to anyone about the SRA project; yet, Councilman Cole informed me last week he has known Ms. Dickson for years. 2) Neither parties involved nor the community was fully heard or represented by this rigid Review. 3) The code is confusing. Ms. Dickson, the opponent, missed out in filing a "Letter of Reconsideration" to Council and lost a rare opportunity to be heard by Council. She received no representation or assistance from her elected representatives during the Review. Almost all cities leave the judging up the to the justices of county court and free Council to represent and assist their elected. Redmond Council policy is an outlier, leaving them vulnerable to law suit.

The Sammamish Rowing Association website: http://www.srarowing.com/

Diagrams and description of the new Boathouse: http://www.srarowing.com/newboathouse/newboathouse.aspx

This Ordinance was approved by City Council to permit the use of a new Boathouse by the Sammamish Rowing Association. This document shows a map of the project.

Read over 11 comments (some from Councilmembers Carson and Allen) on the city's controversial land use appeal process.

BMX Dirt Jump Bikers get a lift from the City

Bicycle Motocross (BMX) youth design their own dirt jump courses with clay models at Horace Mann El.

Carolyn Hope, Redmond's new Senior Parks Planner and already a "rising star", organized a workshop for the neighborhood BMX dirt bike youth. The kids here are modeling clay mock-ups of course designs to help the city plan a safer, more consistent & challenging, environmentally friendly course. Councilmember Richard Cole was present and positive about prospects for the sport in Redmond. Horace Mann El. hosted the meeting.

Neighborhood youth have been BMX dirt jumping in a neighborhood water district forest for over ten years. Only now has the City recognized the sport, the jump course and forest remnant as a potential park asset. Carolyn Hope has worked hard on the project. This is the second community meeting she has held. On Thursday, July 9th, 1:30 - 6pm Ms. Hope is taking 8 BMX youth on a tour of three established nearby dirt jump parks to get fresh ideas and learn about course construction and design. Assuming the city proceeds, permitting and formal design by a qualified engineer will be required.

The BMX youth are ecstatic about the support from the City. Over eight BMX youth volunteered 32 hours of community service to help clean-out invasive plants from the BMX forest. Many of their parents helped, too.


The BMX tour schedule and park websites:
1. Colonnade Mountain Bike Park with John Lang of Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance:http://evergreenmtb.org/wiki/index.php?title=Colonnade
2. Tapeworm Jumps and Pump Track with AJ Johnson of GHY Bikes:http://evergreenmtb.org/wiki/index.php?title=Tapeworm
3. Snoqualmie Dirt Jumps (possibly with DirtCorps):http://evergreenmtb.org/wiki/index.php?title=Trail:Snoqualmie_Bike_Park
http://www.dirtcorps.com/Projects/SnoqualmieBikeSkillsParkPhaseIComplete/tabid/71/Default.aspx

Background on Ross Hunter - candidate for King County Executive

FROM ROSS HUNTER HQ, June 12, 2009
" I am a 4-term incumbent in the Washington State House of Representatives, representing the 48th District since 2003. I currently serve as chair of the Finance committee, and have been a member of the powerful Ways and Means committee since I joined the legislature.

While in the legislature I've served on the information Services Board, responsible for managing complex software projects, particularly those that cross jurisdictional boundaries. I've helped save the state millions of dollars and fixed broken projects.

In a previous life I worked at Microsoft for 17 years, winding up as a General Manager responsible for several hundred people and multiple products. I hold patents related to Microsoft Access, a product I worked on for a very long time. I have substantial experience in managing complex projects, most specifically software development projects.

I attended Yale University, graduating in 1983 with a BS in Computer Science.

I serve on the boards of the Bellevue Schools Foundation and Hopelink, the Eastside's largest human service agency. This gives me insight into the human services needs of King County in a way it would be difficult to learn in the legislature. I've previously served the community as leader of a large Cub Scout pack, and as a member of the Cascade District Committee, helping organize the Scouting program on the Eastside. I received a "District Award of Merit" for the time spent on this."

-- Hunter Releases Questionnaires, excerpt
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 12, 2009

FOR MORE INFORMATION Cynara Lilly 206.915.7821

http://www.rosshunter.com/

Comment: This is for informational purposes only and not to be construed as an endorsement. The candidate pool for King County Executive is large. I am posting background information from other candidates as I receive it. I can say, last year Mr. Hunter responded to a visit from Mr. Cole, Ms. Allen and Mayor Marchione to help secure WSDOT funding for the restoration of Lower Bear Creek. The $10 million restoration will help manage flood hazards and improve habitat for Federally Endangered Chinook salmon. B. Y.

I will post background information on any of those King County Executive Candidates submitting information to redmondblog@gmail.com

The Administration plans to add an environmental education component to their new flood mitigation plan.

Severe Bear Creek flooding behind the Safeway and Redmond Town Center may be less common when the new Flood Mitigation Plan is fully implimented.

Redmond travelers, business owners, and residents have continual concerns about winter flooding hitting our area. Tom Fix, stormwater engineer for the City of Redmond and others in the Administration have worked hard to provide a Comprehensive Flood Hazard Plan for Greater Redmond. The complete update is posted on the city website

The City Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has played a key role on flood mitigation. According to Mr. Hitch, the City has been working to :

• update the City's Hazard Mitigation Plan for all disasters, including flooding. The County is proceeding with flood plain mapping for the river.
• improve the lower channel of Bear Creek as part of WSDOT's construction of four additional lanes to SR520.
• improve habitat restoration along the river that includes removal of some soil, improving flood capacity and planting of native vegetation.
  
• promote "limited impact development" (LID ) , particularly in North Redmond. LID practices should reduce surface flow, and thereby reduce flooding.
  
• mitigate risks to our groundwater protection zones from hazardous materials during flood events; this is part of the evaluation of the City's groundwater protection program.
  
• develop a new water quality facility that may be built in 2009 or 2010 near Bear Creek. This project will include an educational component that will address floodplain issues.

Environmental education and riparian (stream habitat) corridor restoration is icing on the cake. Thanks Steve Hitch, DNR, and the Administration for your dilligence and efforts!

Any of your flood related questions can be directed to Steve Hitch, 425-556-2891 or shitch@redmond.gov

Redmond's Comprehensive Flood Hazard Mitigation Plan city web page.

Councilmember Allen to campaign and train

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Kimberly Allen
16804 NE 92 St.
Redmond, WA 98052
425-894-8237
kim@kimonthecouncil.com

Councilmember Allen to campaign and train

Councilmember Kim Allen welcomes the chance to hit the campaign trail and meet as many Redmond residents as she can. Allen remarked:“I think those of us who hold public office should have to explain what we have accomplished and why we should be returned for another term. I welcome the debate.

This fall is especially exciting for me because of 2 big events: The election and my first Seattle Breast Cancer 3 Day Walk with a team from the Redmond Police Department. The team is named ‘Cops For The Cure’ and I am privileged to be a part of such a great group of people walking for such a great cause. The walk is 60 miles over the course of 3 days. My teammates who have done the walk before recommend training by walking Redmond’s hilly neighborhoods so I am going to combine my training with campaigning this summer, as I get out to talk to folks. My longest walk so far was 7 miles but I hope to stretch that to 10 or 12 miles before the big day.”

For more information on the campaign, go to http://www.kimonthecouncil.com/.
The website for Cops For The Cure is www.the3day.org/site/TR/Walk/SeattleEvent?pg=team&fr_id=1300&team_id=51350.

Assembly at Redmond High about drunken driving hits home.

George Jannusch, Security Officer at Redmond High School lost a daughter (sober) 21-years ago to a drunken driver. Every three years, George speaks to the students about the dangers associated with drinking and driving. George loves the kids and they love him back. Beloved George Jannusch is retiring this year. (47 sec clip).

Redmond Police Officer Sandy English, lost a son (sober) three years ago to a drunken driver. Officer English was a driving force in setting up the General Assembly at Redmond High School. After three trips to Monroe she obtained approval for an 8 minute video story from the imprisoned Redmond student who wrecked this car and killed his innocent passenger. The video was shown during the General Assembly. He was booked for vehicular manslaughter.

"THINK AGAIN!"

Bracelets

The drunken driver of this car was a graduate of Redmond High School. He is serving 6 years in the State Penitentiary in Monroe for killing a sober passenger friend while speeding down Redmond Way (.24 alcohol). A road bumper is wrapped around and into the passenger seat. The Redmond Police have kept the wrecked car to demonstrate the dangers of drinking and driving at public events. Click on the picture to see the "good side" of the car.

Special thanks to Ms. J. Todd for background on this story.

LWSD announces National Merit and PTSA Council Scholarships & more.

College-Sponsored National Merit Scholarship Winners Named

Four Lake Washington School District students have been announced as winners of college-sponsored National Merit Scholarships. These awards provide between $500 and $2,000 annually for up to four years of undergraduate study at the institution financing the scholarship.
The following students received Merit scholarships from these universities:

• Patrick Gilbery, Juanita High School –Arizona State University ·
• Ashoat Tevosyan, Redmond High School –University of Washington·
• Elizabeth Nelson, Redmond High School –University of Washington·
• Ashton Hemphill, Eastlake High School –University of Washington
  

Lake Washington PTSA Council Announces 2009 Scholarship Awards

These student recipients will each receive a $1,000 college scholarship:

Emily Chen, International Community School
Allen Liu, Eastlake High School
Vera Hoang, Lake Washington High School
Callum Dickson, BEST High School
Lars Myren, Juanita High School
Dylan Portelance, Redmond High School
Ngoc-Khuyen Tran, Redmond High School - Adria Klein Memorial Scholarship
Elizabeth Tayler, Juanita High School – Dr. L.E. Scarr Scholarship
Ryan Rae, Juanita High School – Dr. Don Saul Scholarship
Claire Wilson, Lake Washington High School – Bob Hughes Scholarship: At Large Christian Casolary, Eastlake High School – Jay Ellis Scholarship: Music Education
Jacqueline Vautin, Redmond High School – LWEA/Karen Bates Scholarship
Kristin Dorr, Eastlake High School – Seattle Foundation Scholarship Andrew Marzano, Eastlake High School – Seattle Foundation Scholarship

Arts Night at Rosa Parks Elementary School

Rosa Parks Elementary School will hold an Arts Night on Thursday, June 11 from 6 – 9 p.m. Some of the events that will take place at the Arts Night include:
· shadow puppets· brain dances· art displays· Indian classical music· Bollywood music· hip-hop, jazz, ballet· video-graphic design· drum circle· ukulele band performance· student-directed drama performances (directed by students)· critter displays· digital art· sculptures· fashion design· guest speakers

Redmond High School Students Win RedSpoke Bike Poster Contest

Michelle Shepard, a junior at Redmond High School (RHS), was selected as the winner of the Redmond Rotary RedSpoke Bike Poster Contest. Three other RHS students were selected as the runners-up: Jennifer Maes (sophomore), Katie Rohrbach (junior), and Becca Wyant (senior). All four students will be honored next Thursday, June 11, at the Rotary luncheon.

For more information contact: Kathryn Reith, Director of Communications, LWSD (425) 702-3342 Shannon Parthemer, Community Relations & Communications Coordinator, (425) 702-3300

Promoting Cross-Cultural Connections in Redmond

"This summer will mark the 4th consecutive year that summer high school exchange students have come to Redmond to experience American culture and family life. Last year we had over 70 students come from France, Spain, and China and study here for 4 weeks while living with local Redmond host families. We have 80 students coming this summer and we still need 20 volunteer Redmond host families!!!" Thank you for anything you can do. Many thanks, --Jessica Falkner-Horine 425.830.9978

Open your home to an Educational Homestay international student for 3 or 4 weeks this summer! Twenty Redmond host family spots are still available! It's an educational and cultural opportunity of a lifetime for your family.

The first Educational Homestay Program (EHP), a non-profit based in Cambridge, MA, is bringing students from France and Spain to the Redmond area this summer to study English and experience the American way of life. We are currently looking for homes on the Eastside for these students, and we’d love for you to get involved!

Here's how it works:

• Junior High students will be visiting from July 9th- August 5th & July 22nd- Aug 10th .


• The students will be under the supervision of Program staff from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (M-F), attending language classes in the morning and participating in a variety of organized educational activities and field trips.


• Host Families are asked to provide a bed, meals and transportation to and from the drop-off point from which students will be transported to their classes at Redmond Jr. High.


• Contact: Jessica at 425-830-9978 for additional information and to register.

Thank you for sending this story to the Redmond Blog, Jennifer! BY

SPOTLIGHT ON COACH "B" - Founding Coach of Eastside Catholic Boys Lacrosse - 2009 State Finalist

Coach B is the 3rd coach from the left - with his Eastside Catholic team

Bill Brosseau - "the heart and soul of NW Lacrosse."

• Leader
• Mentor
• Lacrosse Entrepreneur

UPDATED, 6/7 - I have played and coached with Bill Brosseau and can tell you Coach "B" is an awesome individual. In the early 1980's, Bill helped the sport with Everett Smith in coaching "Lake Washington Lacrosse Team". Bill's an original. He's a pioneer of lacrosse in the Northwest - both for boys and girls.

In 1983, Bill took over as Varsity Head Coach of the first Eastside Boys Lacrosse Club. He guided his Club to State Championship appearances in '84 and '85 and placed 10 players on the All League Team. The Eastside Lacrosse Club became the spawning ground for players, coaches, and referees. The fast growth of "Eastside" helped many teams to get started -- Redmond Mustangs, Issaquah, Sammamish, Evergreen, Overlake, North Shore, and Bellevue. Bill's heart and soul was given to many of these young players from day 1. Could Coach B be considered one of the Founding Father's of NW lacrosse? That's up to you, but please keep reading.

Bill Brosseau is a born leader, youth mentor and lacrosse entrepreneur. He honors the game, probably as much or more than any coach I've known. Bill is a humble, giving individual, coaching from his heart, with civility, and respect, never shouting derisively at his players for "the easy fix". I know of no other coach who honors his players with the depth of belief and faith he shares. Bill inspires. He is a tall, imposing figure with an Army background. He once sold Nautilus weight building equipment. You get the picture! His players listen! (Photo of David Carlton shooting)

Coach "B" has achieved amazing success with his current Eastside Catholic (EC) High Schoolteam of Sammamish, WA. In just three short years, Bill built the program from a JV team to a Division II State finalist! EC was undefeated in their Cascade Conference (12-0). Bill built his team from the ground up. In three short years he developed three All-Cascade Conference players: Robert Pfluger, Nick Pizzitola, and Kyle Decker. Michael Creswell (#17) is pictured in the photo with Coach B. during the semi-final game vs. Redmond.

I played Defense with Bill (and Everett Smith) for the Redmond Lacrosse Club in the mid-eighties and briefly helped Bill with his EC JV team. Every time our paths crossed, Coach Bill would ask me to coach! First it was the Eastside Middle School Boys team. Then it was the Eastside Catholic Girls Varsity team. Yes. Bill was an early innovator of Girls lacrosse. Finally, it was Eastside Catholic boys JV. Bill's persistent invitations were his way of honoring the strong camaraderie, respect, and brotherhood of lacrosse, the values he so cherishes. Bill Brosseau is a class act. He's a gentleman in every sense of the word.

Bill is from the East, as are most "originals". As a child he was the "Ball Boy" for the Army Lacrosse Team. Bill played on the West Point grounds in his youth and high school from 1965-1971. . Upon graduating from Salem College, VA. in 1975 with a B.S. in Physical Education he taught and coached at the New York Military Academy in upstate New York. He became the Defense Coordinator of the Cadet Lacrosse Team and helped steer them to two Hudson Valley League Championships two years in a row.

Bill's lacrosse coach mentors were: Hall of Fame Coach Ace Adams, Hall of Fame Player and Coach Bill Rich, and Hall of Fame Coach Everett Smith. Bill Brosseau and what he has done for the NW game while mentoring many hundreds of players is deserving of our recognition. Bill  is right up there with the best. I hope the Washington Chapter of the US Lacrosse Association and the Washington Lacrosse Association will someday honor Bill as he has honored Washington lacrosse during his 30-year love fest with the game.

Bill  couldn't have done it without the support of his wife, Dianne. With two children and four grandchildren, Bill has been busy off the field. All his grand kids have had sticks since birth and they're all lefty's. Watch out Syracuse!

Click photos to enlarge. A photo album of pics & clips from the 2009 WHSBLA State Championship. Girls lacrosse is growing fast. And, Bill coached the girls, too. Learn more about the Girls Lacrosse game here.


BILL'S EMAIL The sources for this post are: the 2009 EC Lacrosse Program, the 2009 WLBSC Program, and my personal experiences with B and the game. Any comments or opinions are welcome! (click on the "comments" button below).

Eastside Catholic High School Sports Web Page
Factoid:
For the last decade, lacrosse has been one of the fastest-growing team sports in the
country. US Lacrosse chapters have been established in 39 states and more than 500,000
played on organized teams in 2008 compared to just over 250,000 in 2001.
Youth lacrosse participation has more than doubled in just seven years. US Lacrosse, '09

"THIS PLACE MATTERS" - PERRIGO SPRINGS

Richard Morris and his dog stand on the spillway and two children 
  holding a sign "This Place Matters."  (click pic to enlarge)

THIS PLACE MATTERS - PERRIGO SPRINGS

Perrigo Springs was Redmond's first "watering hole."  Indians and early settlers first used the spring.  "Daughters of the American Colonists" placed a 2004 rock marker and planted a Corkscrew tree near the spring. 

Perrigo Springs was purchased by the Redmond Water Department in 1914 and was the first water supply for the newly incorporated town of Redmond. A dam (spillway) was originally constructed to impound the water for storage, with the transmission main a 4” to 8” wood stave pipe. This site was Redmond’s only water supply until 1927 and served as a major source of supply until 1962. Ref: Nao Hardy, 6/07.  

The spring's water source is the Perrigo Creek wetland watershed.  Perrigo Creek drains the Hartman wetland watershed.  Its cooled water "springs up" into a shallow pond filled with natural stones. From there the spring water flows over a small concrete spillway into the creek below and continues downstream.  Upper Perrigo Creek is a dry stream bed much of the time but the spring is active all year.  

It's a quiet place. Children and small dogs playing in the spillway  These children were floating cork boats.  Musicians softly play their guitars while meditating by the Spring.  Small families picnic nearby. The city monitors the Spring.     

This picture and story was submitted to the "National Trust for Historic Preservation contest named THIS PLACE MATTERS."    

-- Bob Yoder 

   June, 2009 ,

   updated 9/28/2024

The County "Open Space Amendment" impacts Redmond and Woodinville

About the Open Space Amendment (OSA) - Informational Meeting, June 15, 7pm, Redmond Library.

The Open Space Amendment (OSA) provides additional protection for over 100,000 acres of open space land owned by the county. According to County Executive Sims, these lands are among our most treasured natural spaces, and were originally acquired for their high conservation value. Upper and Middle Evans Creek Natural Areas and Middle and Lower Bear Creek Conservation Areas are on the List. (photo is Bear Creek)

This amendment to the county Charter strengthens protections against the sale or transfer of protected properties by the county. The conservation-oriented uses of the lands would also be permanently preserved. There would be no change in how residents currently use these spaces.

The specific properties protected by the Amendment were chosen for their high value in safeguarding the county’s drinking water, habitat, recreation opportunities, and rural economy: Clean drinking water – protects the water quality of rivers, lakes, streams, and aquifers that county residents rely upon for their drinking water.

An informational meeting on June 15, 7pm at the Redmond Library will review a draft list of properties that would receive higher conservation protection and information on the potential methods for managing that list under the proposed “open space amendment”.

No new land would be purchased under the proposed open space amendment. No direct costs are associated with the proposed amendment.The Council is expected to decide by July on whether to put charter amendments on the ballot for a public vote.

A few of the over 100 open space properties in the Redmond area that the OSA would protect include: Cougar Mountain Regional Park, Evans Creek Natural Area, Lower Bear Creek Natural Area, Middle Bear Creek Natural Area, Cold Creek Natural Area, and Tiger Mountain Regional Park. Maps of all 100+ of the open space properties are available in PDF.

Open Space Charter Amendment King County web page.

Boys Lacrosse State Championhip results! It's the Issaquah Eagles and Overlake Owls!

The Overlake School Owls take Division II State Championship. Defeat Eastside Catholic, 17-11 at Memorial Field.

Eastside Catholic Crusaders of Sammamish fall prey to The Overlake School Owls of Greater Redmond in Division II State Finals.

Eastside Catholic lacrosse is only 3 years old and is coached by NW lacrosse pioneer, Bill Brouseau. The Owls and Crusaders defeated the Redmond Mustangs to get to the Finals.

For the complete game report on the D-II Championship game visit: Fred Wilmot's story

Great feed and shot, 27 sec. clip - Eastside Catholic team offense.

Max Saffle to Andrew Carlton for score!, 58 sec. video clip of Eastside Catholic on offense.

The Overlake School DII State Champions... click for video Highlights of the game (6 second download) Video credit: Steve Mataya Owner http://www.reallife-media.com/

Issaquah Eagles take the D-I Championship two years in a row. Defeat Mercer Island, 10-9 at Memorial Field.

Mercer Island goalie makes save (right).

Issaquah Eagles defeated the Mercer Island Islanders (10-9 )for the Division I State Championship. Issaquah goalie makes save with one second remaining.

For the complete game report read:
Fred Wilmot's story!

The city partners with neighborhoods to create "micro-parks" - Neighbor gives feedback

These cul-de-sacs were improved using the City-sponsored Neighborhood Matching Fund - the one on right was spoiled by a bad neighbor (since departed).

One of the few partnerships between the City of Redmond and it's neighborhoods is called the "Neighborhood Matching Fund." The program was started under the Ives Administration. Open space is created from cul-de-sacs once filled with thick, bushy ground cover (also good habitat for rodents) and it can improve neighborhood gateways. Impenetrable groundcover was removed from the above cul-de-sacs.

How it works: The City supplies cash (or in-kind services) for a neighborhood project and the neighborhood matches the City's contribution with local resources of volunteer labor ($17/hr), donated materials or professional services ($30/hr), or cash. The funds are awarded on the basis of merit, with a maximum of $5,000 available from the City per project.

Here's the rub: If maintenance is required in the agreement, it is the responsibility of the neighborhood project leader to do it. One of my neighbors living on the cul-de-sac, depicted in the right photo, complained the city would not fix the damaged curb because "they don't own it". Apparently, the curb damage is caused by large trucks e.g. Waste Management trying to navigate the 20' road. My neighbor said a truck once ran over potted plants where you now see shrubs. Waste Management said they would repair the curbs only if all the neighbors wheeled their containers up to the collector road. Obviously, the cul-de-sac road was never designed for large recycling trucks. Hmmm. What about the City's new fire trucks?

According to the project leader of the cul-de-sac on the right, it once had a nice park table in the center and beauty bark. A problem neighbor claimed the table was a hazard and threatened a law suit. The neighbors removed the table. Police were called regularly to deal with this nasty neighbor. They have since moved.

Look at the cul-de-sac on the left. All the neighbors took serious pride on this street and were never bothered by a nuisance resident. They installed a beautiful vine maple and two park benches. I admire their "little park" every time I walk by it. Scores of school children and parents walk by it on their way to MANN El.

I hope the City encourages further development of neighborhood micro-parks and partnerships. What do you think?

Read the city description of the "Neighborhood Matching Fund".

Use this Application Form to apply for a Neighborhood Matching Fund.

click photos to enlarge.