There's another Doctor in the "School House" (besides Kimball!)



Chris Carlson, PhD
LWSD School Board, Dist. 2

 Dr. Christopher Carlson, LWSD Director, District Two – Resident of Kirkland is running unopposed for school board for a second term this year.

First elected 11/2007
Term ends 11/2011

Christopher Carlson, Ph.D, was elected to the school board in November 2007. He is a faculty member in the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center's Division of Public Health Sciences. His lab focuses on identifying correlations between genetic variation and disease risk for cancer, diabetes, and other common diseases, and then identifying the causal biological mechanism responsible for the correlation. Carlson is also an affiliate assistant professor with the University of Washington School of Public Health in the Department of Epidemiology. He holds a B.A. in molecular biology from Pomona College and a Ph.D in genetics from Stanford University.  Read More >>

Halloween @ Microsoft, Redmond, WA.

HAPPPY HALLOWEEN, 2011 FROM MICROSOFT OF REDMOND, WA. !

Recent AWR modifications on Evans Creek shoreline, violating city code

2010 - after



2007 - before

Both photos show the bridge built by All Wood Recycling (AWR) crossing Evans Creek.  The right photo taken in 2010, shows unpermitted modifications and development.  The mitigated shoreline of Evans Creek is visible on the left side of each photo.  (Click to enlarge) Yes, that's the shoreline.

The City is currently reviewing All Wood Recycling (AWR) on 8504 192nd Ave NE for three land use applications to correct code violations.  The city photos in the slide show are dated from 2006 - 2010.

The violations are, but not limited to: 

• partial demolition of existing buildings, vegetation removal along Evans Creek, extensive paving impervious surfaces), storage of hazardous materials, the construction of a stormwater vault, retaining wall, and truck scale.  

Work noted above (click slide show for captions) has been completed without permits. AWR is proposing to install a sanitary sewer line and connect it to city sewer; and to relocate the fuel line.  City Planner Kelsey Johnson writes: 

At this point in time (10/30/11), the associated land use applications are under review. Therefore, no corrective actions have taken place.  The city photographs of the site are public records on file in the Permit Center.

Work completed by All Wood Recycling does not meet code therefore, remediation activities will need to occur once the permits are approved and issued." 

Sources:   Kelsey Johnson, LEED AP BD+C Assistant Planner City of Redmond Planning and Community Development MS: 2SPL 15670 NE 85th Street PO Box 97010 Redmond, WA 98073-9710 425.556.2409.

AWR is located on top of a Priority One Wellhead Protection Zone that supplies our drinking water.

By Bob Yoder 

City website land use action notices.

David Carson recommends "A Balanced and Predictable Shoreline Management Program"

DAVID CARSON CAMPAIGN ISSUE: 
A Balanced and Predictable Shoreline Management Program

David Carson writes:

"Any time new regulations are being considered, property owners have a right to be concerned about the impact to their property and its future value. When the council took up an update to the Shoreline Management Plan starting in 2008, a group of lakefront [Lake Sammamish] property owners were actively engaged to ensure that this plan did not discourage routine maintenance and wouldn't hinder revitalization of this neighborhood. This approach resulted in a plan* that is fair to property owners while protecting the natural habitats at the water’s edge."   -- David Carson's website

COMMENTARY:  The Shoreline Management Program applies to "Shorelines of the State," which for Redmond are:  1)  Bear Creek,  2) Evans Creek, 3)  Sammamish River, and 4) Lake Sammamish.  David Carson's campaign issue specifically addresses the Lake Sammamish shoreline and the City's plan* to manage view corridors, trees, open spaces, docks, building heights, and stormwater on the lake.

Significant impacts are occurring to Bear, Evans, and Sammamish River shorelines.   For example, the city has plans to buffer and alter Bear Creek further from SR 520.  And below, an aerial photo of the SE Evans Creek shows extensive industrial use has expanded on the shoreline banks.

In July of 2008, David Carson and I toured this site with Kathy Lambert and city staff, looking at industrial impacts to the shoreline and city aquifer.  Three years later, All Wood Recycling is still violating city code and is under review.  Is the Shoreline Management Plan for Evans Creek balanced and predictable?

 Evans Creek is flowing north and west (r-l) through All Wood Recycling, 2002
The site in SE Redmond is even more developed today.

By Bob Yoder
Photo Courtesy of City of Redmond
Source: Shoreline Substantial Development Permit.,
Kelsey Johnson, City Assist. Planner 

"Layers of Redmond Colors," By Kamal Siegel

KAMAL SIEGEL/ "Layers of Redmond Colors" 

Redmond resident and small business owner of  Double Digital.  Kamal Siegel is building a collection of  photographs to honor Redmond's 100-year birthday celebration next year.

Kamal was on the Redmond Arts Commission when Tom Flynn was Chair.  Follow Kamal's growing gallery here.

Elections Dept. identifies about 11,000 Eastside voters whose ballots weren't sent out. Dept. to mail them on Saturday 10/29 in time for Nov. 8 election

Ballot mailing delay for some Eastside voters  - Delivery expected in the mail early this week for these voters.

The Elections Department has identified about 11,000 Eastside voters whose ballots were not sent out among the 1.1 million General Election ballots mailed on Oct. 19. Ballots are being mailed to these voters tomorrow and they should receive them in the mail early next week. All voters have until Nov. 8 to vote and get ballots postmarked or returned to a ballot drop box.  Read More >>

"Video Voters Guide for King County Candidates" worth a quick look

Video Voters’ Guide for King County Candidates in our voting district

This entire online King County Video Voters' Guide is designed to make information about the November 8 General election more accessible, and assist you in making an informed choice.

Below are 2-minute videos of King County candidates on the ballot in our area.  It's worth a quick look.   

• the King County Assessor  (Lloyd Hara-uncontested)
• King County Elections Director (xxxMark Greene vs. Incumbent Sherril Huff)
• Metropolitan King County Council (Incumbent Jane Hague vs. Robert Mitchell
• Port of Seattle Commissioners #5 (Dean Willard vs.President Bill Bryant)
• Port of Seattle Commissioner #2 (Richard Pope vs.Incumbent Gail Tarleton)

Each candidate has two minutes to speak. They appear on the screen in the same order in which they will appear on your ballot.

Source:  King County election website

Carson wants less public notice, less community feedback during neighborhood commercial project reviews.

OPINION:  Neighborhood Commercial (NC) zoning would allow developers to build grocery stores, spas, cafes, garden centers and the like to the edges of our neighborhoods.  Convenience stores (like 7/11's) are prohibited.

NC is a relatively new planning concept and somewhat controversial so the city council wanted to discuss improved public notice and feedback process.

This is the second of three reports on the city council's May 25 study session  on  "Neighborhood Commercial (NC).

 ###

All councilmembers, except David Carson, gave a *"thumbs up" approval to the more thorough  "Panel Review" process for neighborhood Notice and feedback.  The Panel Review process requires a city-wide notice, whereas the process David Carson asked for was the traditonal Notice limited to residents living 500 feet of the proposed neighborhood project.  Carson suggested "technical committee" city staff should initially review the project.  The Panel Review process is more inclusive with at least 4-6 Redmond residents in the initial review.

The Panel process would take 1.5 - 3 years and require a broad, neighborhood-wide public Notice. The panel would make recommendations to staff.  Neighborhood Meetings and Planning Commission review are still required.  The Council has final authority to "condition" the development.  Council member Allen suggested the Panel be composed of staff, development review committee, planning commission (two citizens), design review board (two citizens), and 1-2 neighbors. 

Hank Margeson recommended a panel be more representative of residents than staff.  Hank Myers said, "I like the panel approach because it creates fewer pitfalls.  If we do more process in the front we do less in the end. It helps streamline the process, especially in controversial developments."

David Carson asked Senior Planner Kim Dietz, "where do you really see the deficiency in the current process we have...what is...if you could pick a couple things you think were lacking in the current thing we do, what do you think we're lacking?" 

Ms. Dietz responded, 

"The panel is actually our recommendation.  I gives a sense of what's going in there.  There are no requirements for applicants now.  The panel introduces a new level of information; it gives opportunity for developers to really hear what neighborhoods concerns are and start to work with them to address them."

Carson responded, "we could just require them [the developer] to say up front what they want in the proposal... I guess I'm not sold on the idea of the panel and...I don't know, if just, I mean I think, if we were to require them [developers] up front to say well, 'what do you want to put in here'?  To me, when you go to the neighborhood meeting then all those questions can be answered.....It's a lot easier to go through the current process without a lot of more red tape."

Vice President Pat Vache' said "you go to a neighborhood meeting and the developer tells you what you're going to do and you didn't have an opportunity to discuss it..." 

Hank Margeson added, "Having lived through this with Education Hill Community Advisory Committee, the feedback we got from the community was 'the fear of the unknown'.  Mr. Vache' has a good point.  We've sat in meetings and folks feel like they were heard, but no action was taken, so how useful was that?  Whereas, if you have a panel who can say these are the conditions that well allow this to operate...or these are the things we need to see...like screening...or this is not our idea for our neighborhood, then there's a negotiation process and people feel represented.

Hank Myers said  "This is an advisory group.  The developer can come back and redo, but the panel doesn't decide.  "I like the idea of a panel because this [neighborhood commercial] is a fairly new idea.  We're not buying the whole thing all at once."

Councilmembers Pat Vache', Kim Allen and John Stilin actively contributed in this session, but this piece focuses on the 2011 election candidates.   Richard Cole was absent. 

Myers, Margeson and Carson are running for re-election in November.  Do you think all three deserve to be re-elected and hold office for another 4-years?  If not, find an engaged citizen and ask them to run.  Candidates must file by June 10.

Reported By Bob Yoder
6/5/2011

COMMENT:  The Washington Cathedral owns 10 acres of land abuting 124th Street, NE.  Several years ago the church applied for a permit to build a large shopping center w/Safeway on the land.  Council  questioned compatibility and proximity to agricultural open space.  Councilmember Allen suggested a smaller, garden center project, but traffic was a consideration.  In my view, this site is a possible first location for a "Neighborhood Commercial" project.  B.Y

*The panel review study session lasted 22 minutes.   Two hours, two minutes (2:02) into the tape, Mr. Vache' asks for a "thumbs up" vote on the panel.   You might find what you see interesting.

Stewart - The choice on Nov 8th

Stewart - The choice on Nov 8th



Sue Stewart

 As the days of the campaign draw to an end, some may be wondering what are the differences between Sue Stewart and my opponent. Is the incumbent a safe bet or is Sue Stewart the better candidate for Redmond?

For 15 years I have served the community of Redmond, often in partnership with representatives of our business community. My opponent, through his endorsements, would have you believe that he is the only pro-business candidate in this race. Nothing could be further from the truth. The reality is that I understand and value the role of business in our city and the benefits these entities bring to our community. In recent discussions about the neighborhood commercial process, my opponent resisted the additional requirements for community input. Neighborhood Commercial has great potential for bringing small businesses to the edge of our neighborhoods but I believe that the size, scope, and esthetics of these establishments have to be thoroughly vetted with the neighbors.  Read More >>

Meet David Carson

Meet David

David grew up in the Pacific Northwest (Southern Oregon) and moved to the Redmond area in 1991 to work for Microsoft. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Oregon State University. He lived in Germany for six months directly after college where he did an internship in the banking industry where he also studied the finer aspects of beer and German food.

He worked for Microsoft as a full-time employee for 10 years, first in Product Support and then as a Software Test Engineer in the Office and Outlook product groups.  Read More >>

Four Redmond Residents nominated for Leadership Eastside awards.

Karin Duval, Managing Director
LE Class of '11

From the desk of Karin Duval, Managing Director, LE...

Hi Bob,

Leadership Eastside (LE) recently held their annual LENi Awards Gala honoring community leaders in the region. Four Redmond Residents were nominated for an award:

John Marchione (LE '08), Mayor of the City of Redmond, was nominated for a Vision Award, for his leadership around the rejuvenation of Redmond.

Linda Benson, Vice President, Community Initiatives, Hope-link, was nominated for a Vision Award for her work to end hunger,

Tom Hinman, Community Leader, for a Sustainability Award for his passion around Liveable Redmond, and

Linda Hall, Director, Housing Development and Operations at YWCA for a Catalyst Award for her amazing decade of leadership creating the Issaquah Family Village.   Read More >>

Mayor John Marchione to attend ribbon-cutting ceremony for Deana Hale, November 4.

Mayor John Marchione attends many ribbon-cutting ceremonies throughout the year
 to welcome small businesses.  This one was for The Orchard & Pea Patch preschools.
On Friday November 4 the Mayor will welcome Deana Hale of Edward Jones.



Deana Hale
Edward Jones office
Whole Foods Marketplace

UPDATED:  On Friday, November 4, Mayor John Marchione will welcome Deana Hale and the Edward Jones office to Redmond at a ribbon cutting ceremony in the Whole Foods Market Place, 17887 Redmond Way, Suite 125. The celebration begins at 4pm with the ribbon cutting at 4:30pm.

According to the Greater Redmond Chamber of Commerce, the Edward Jones office is now led by Deana Hale, Financial Advisor with Edward Jones since December 2009. Deana is active in the community through her involvement in the Redmond Rousers Rotary, the Redmond Chamber of Commerce and the Eastside Women in Business.

“As Redmond continues to grow its economy, I want to personally welcome new businesses to Redmond,” stated Mayor Marchione.  Read More >>

Siri Bliesner poised to be new member of Lake Washington School Board : The Sammamish Review

Siri Bliesner
Unopposed Candidate
LWSD District Pos. 5

Siri Bliesner poised to be new member of Lake Washington School Board : The Sammamish Review:

Siri Bliesner poised to be new member of Lake Washington School Board

October 25, 2011
By Christopher Huber

Siri Bliesner, of Redmond, is running in an uncontested race for the Lake Washington School Board this fall. She will replace outgoing board member Ravi Shahani.

Although Bliesner does not live in Sammamish, school board seats are voted on by the district as a whole, and decisions she makes will impact Sammamish families in the Lake Washington district. The general election is Nov. 8.

Bliesner works in public health and graduated from Stanford with a degree in human biology and received a masters in public health from the University of Washington, she said. She speaks Spanish and currently works for Hopelink as the outcome and evaluation coordinator.  Read More >>

UPDATED ENDORSEMENT: The Stewart - Carson race for Redmond City Council is one to watch.

For an archive of all RNB Election news, stories, and opinions or to comment, please visit this page.

Bob & Pam Yoder

Dear Friends,

UPDATED ENDORSEMENT:   We're less than a week away from the November 8 General Election!  You may have already cast your ballot in the mail; some are waiting to hear the "rest of the story."   If you're undecided about voting at all, I hope some of the election resources and comments you read here will move you to take a moment and vote.

Wouldn't you know it, November is the beginning of the flood season and  it could rain 'cats and dogs' the day you need to mail your ballot!  Find comfort!  A drive-through Ballot Drop Off  Box awaits your vote at Redmond City Hall and other convenient drive-through locations.  Just pop it in the secure, Green metal box - no need for a stamp!  The good news:  Convenience!  Comfort!  Hardly a wait.  (The Boxes close at 8PM, Election night). 

Redmond Neighborhood Blog (RNB) is not endorsing any one candidate this year.  RNB has no Editorial Board, though as a voting Redmond resident I'm expressing my personal opinion on candidates.

Make your voice heard on RNB.  Please send your comments, arguments, passion, and counter-points to RNB for publication (and take courage and mail a copy to the Redmond Reporter for the broader coverage they provide.)  "RNB Facebook Page" is a good stop, too.

Pam and I are personally endorsing most candidates on their campaign websites, including Sue Stewart, Hank Myers, Tom Flynn, Mayor John Marchione, King County Councilmember Jane Hague, Incumbent Port President Bryant and school district candidates Siri Bliesner,  President Jackie Pendergrass, and Christopher Carlson.  I hope my blog will provide a useful resource for your own decisions.   

I'm posting a series of  reports and arguments, pro and con, on the contested local races for Redmond City Council.  (The school and hospital district races are uncontested).  I watch the Council and School Board meetings almost every week and can't wait to share my observations and opinions with you.

The Stewart-Carson race is the most exciting race for me and I will personally focus on it.  My wife and I favor Sue Stewart for Redmond Council Pos.7.  The "Municipal League of King County", the Cascade Bicycle Club, and small business owners like John James of Instant Imprints all like Stewart.

Sue Stewart #7, Tom Flynn #5 and Hank Margeson are rated  "VERY GOOD"  by the non-partisan "Municipal League." Hank Myers and David Carson #7 rate "GOOD."  Joel Wright #5 rates "ADEQUATE."
On August 8, 2011, Mr. Carson wrote: 

"I did not participate with the Municipal League’s rating interview or their questionnaire this year. I believe them to be less-than-impartial and a complete waste of my time."

Mayor Marchione is trying his hardest to move our blossoming city forward in the right direction.  He needs the support and intelligence of an independent-thinking, balanced council team.  Please help him put it together on November 8th with your vote.

Sincerely,

Bob Yoder
Education Hill Neighborhood
Redmond resident of 30 years

Sammamish River Dragon, By John Reinke

BY JOHN REINKE / Shadow Darner Dragonfly

On a sunny day in mid-October, I photographed this dragonfly hanging from a purple aster blossom, less than 50 yards from the Sammamish River.  - John Reinke

NW dragonfly expert Jim Johnson says....  Read More >>

Evergreen Hospital Hosts Two Mental Health Care Forums Each Month - 54 turned out last week.

Evergreen Hospital
Meeting held in Phys. & Surg. Building, Tan 100.

Evergreen Hospital hosts two Mental Health Care Forums on the 3rd Tuesday at 7PM each month. 54 turned out at meetings last week.   

I report on the local governments of Greater Redmond, WA., which includes Evergreen Hospital.  The elected Board of Commissioners hold their Regular Meetings on the same evening, 6:30PM as the Forums.

This week, I took a break from my government coverage to visit the Evergreen Mental Health Care Forums.  I was totally surprised by the high turnout to these Forums.  Thirty-seven attendees showed up at "Nami-Eastside's" sponsored program on "Involuntary Treatment." The CHADD (*ADD/ADHD) Forum next door hosted 17.  It's unusual to find this kind of turnout at public meetings, especially for health topics. 

The Mental Health Care topic on involuntary treatment was quite interesting - and sad. Read More >>

LETTER: Councilmember Allen personally endorses Sue Stewart for Redmond City Council #7.

Redmond City Councilmember Kim Allen personally endorses Sue Stewart for Council, Position 7. 

Hi friends,

Councilmember Kim Allen

I am NOT up for reelection this election cycle, but a competent and committed woman is running for seat 7 on the Council. As you review your candidate ballots, I want to share with you my personal endorsement for Sue Stewart. I have known Sue for many years and know her commitment to our community of Redmond. She’s lived here for 30 years and has been active on boards and commissions for the last 15 years. Additionally, she has been involved in other community activities from PTSA to Redmond West Little League, and our high school Drama Boosters. As a Redmond volunteer, she has covered the whole gamut from parks and trails to budget to zoning code review--dedicating HUNDREDS of hours to improving our community and helping to make government responsive to the people who live here.

Sue understands how government works and will dig deep to understand the heart of the issues and find effective solutions. She has a depth of experience in transit, which is vital to our city, and is committed to assuring Redmond's sustainability and continued excellent quality of life. Please take a few moments to look at Sue's website below and please pass the word to your neighbors and friends. I remain committed to keeping Redmond a wonderful place to call home and I believe Sue is too.

Many thanks!
Kim Allen
Redmond City Council

2010 Key Facts on Exam Results and Education Spending for LWSD

Key Facts about Lake Washington Public Schools
March 2011

Research released in March, 2011 by Washington Policy Center, a non-partisan public policy think tank based in Seattle, provides key facts for the Lake Washington School District.  Education budgets in Washington State are at historic highs, reaching $10,200 per student statewide.

Average teacher pay in this area (LWSD) is $58,981. Yet, only 59 cents of every education dollar reaches the classroom and public school students continue to lag in academic achievement.

Detailed research and ideas for reform are available in our study, “Eight Practical Ways to Reverse the Decline of Public Schools.”   The following ared 2010 "Key Facts" for Lake Washington School District:


 Schools and Students
• Number of students: 23,142
• Number of schools: 50.

Education Spending
• Total education 2009-10: $322.6 million
• Total per-student spending: $13,778
• Operations budget 2009-2010: $212.1 million
• Per-student spending, operations only: $9179

• Average teacher pay for ten-month work year: $58,981
• Average teacher pay with all benefits: $76,675
• Average administrator pay with all benefits: $143,603
• Superintendent’s pay without benefits: $211,098
• Number of employees paid over $100,000 a year: 73
• Education funds paid as dues to teachers’ union in May 2007-8: $1.7 million

 Exam Results - 10 Measures of Student Progress and High School Proficiency
• 16% of fourth graders failed in reading
• 17% of fourth graders failed in math
• 19% of fourth graders failed in writing
• 17% of eighth graders failed in reading
• 38% of eighth graders failed in math
• 9% of tenth graders failed in reading
• 34% of tenth graders failed in math
• 7% of tenth graders failed in writing
• 28% of tenth graders failed in science

Lake Washington Schools Operating Spending per Pupil
2004 - 2005 $7419
2009 - 2010 $9180

Student Learning (Students in Washington state are entitled to 180 days of class time.)
• Number of full class days provided by Lake Washington Schools: 169
• High school on-time graduation rate: 92.6%

Summary of Key Facts about LWSD - http://www.washingtonpolicy.org/publications/facts/key-facts-about-lake-washington-public-schools

Reported  By: Kendra, Intern, Washington Policy Center, 3/4/2011
intern@washingtonpolicy.org
Washington Policy Center (WPC)
http://www.washingtonpolicy.org/

Do you want comment on this? Feel free. Or, send a Letter with your name and I'll post it. B.Y. redmondblog@gmail.com  Republished in part.  Edited by for brevity B.Y.

Redmond Arts Commission to entertain the art community while collecting ideas.

Oil Paintings by Jeffrey Corson
 Exhibit ends October 24  -- Old Redmond School House

 Items From The Audience Thursday, November 10 7-9 pm Soul Food Books 15748 Redmond Way 

Attention all artists, art professionals, policy makers and art enthusiasts!  “Items From The Audience” is a chance for you to come together and discuss the arts in Redmond.

The evening is presented by the Redmond Arts Commission and will feature entertainment, food and an open mic to lend your voice and help us all create a Redmond filled with arts. It’s also a great way to get to know others in the arts community. 

Not sure you want to get up and speak at a microphone? Don’t worry, there will also be several activities where participants can express their thoughts without getting up in front of the crowd. And for those who
want to speak their ideas aloud there will be plenty of opportunity to do so.

“Items From The Audience” is an effort by the Redmond Arts Commission to collect ideas and feedback from the community in a fun and comfortable way. These ideas and feedback will then be used in future planning and policy making.  Attached is a digital flyer for the event or for more information visit Items From

The Audience on the web or contact Arts Administrator Joshua Heim at 425-556-2316, jmheim@redmond.gov And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook www.Facebook.com/RedmondArts

Submited by Dr. Pat Raman
Chair, Redmond Arts Commission

Redmond bank robber takes the money and runs

Redmond bank robber takes the money and runs 

Redmond, WA – Washington Federal on the 16900 block of Redmond Way was robbed shortly before 9:45 a.m. this morning.

The suspect passed a note demanding money and implying he had a gun.  There was no weapon shown and there were no injuries.  The weapon is described as:

Ethnicity:  White, dark complexion  Sex:  Male    Height:  6’0” Weight:  230   Clothing:  Purple bandanna, old school Mariners royal blue hat, gray sweatshirt, blue jeans    Other:  Mustache, scruffy chin hair

Anyone with information is asked to call Redmond Police at 425-556-2546.  

By Jim Bove
Redmond Community Outreach Facilitator

What's the most important transportation issue facing Redmond?, By Candidate Sue Stewart, Pos. 7

Sue Stewart
Council Candidate Pos. 7

This is third post in a series covering the four questions from the recent City of Redmond Chamber of Commerce candidate forum.

Question: What is the most important transportation issue facing Redmond and how would you address it?

Having an effective and efficient transportation system is vital to our entire community. We need to have the ability to move goods and services to our businesses and then residents to these businesses. We will need to connect our urban centers and then outward to the region. How do we accomplish this? We will need a network of complete streets, parking management, and improved transit services.

To improve transit, we will need to continue to assert ourselves with Metro and Sound Transit to insure we get our fair share of transit. As someone with 30 years of transit experience, I bring a depth of knowledge to the table that Redmond can use to fight to make sure we have the right service at the right time. I also know what a network of complete streets should look like to enable efficient movement about town both for our residents and for future transit. Parking management means having ample spots for people to park once and then be able to walk about the community from place to place.

By Sue Stewart, Pos. 7

UPDATE: 60 shoppers turn out for School District Surplus sale

UPDATE, 11/10 -- We stopped by the warehouse at 11:30, just before closing out of curiosity and to see if there was anything good for the pickings. Not.

George Walker - the friendly and helpful warehouseman gave us the complete run-down, as follows: 35 shoppers were lined up outside the warehouse before opening at 7:30AM. One person camped out the night before. (Confirmed by two LWSD warehouseman). Just over 60 purchases were made.

According to state law - outlying school districts and private schools get first dibs on the merchandise. Sutlan School District picked up all the netbooks and carts. Seattle School district was the number two buyer, followed by Faith Lutheran School on Ed. Hill. The Kimball piano was picked up by an LW district el. school. Most of the many remaining desktop computers will go to Mars Recycling. Book brokers will bid on the thousands of remaining books. Most of the kitchen and workshop stuff was junky and remained.

Auctions were held up until about 6 years ago (though auctions still take place for LWHS and Finn Hill JH). George said, "I hold items before the sale that I think the district could use."  (folding tables, etc.)

B.Y.

View Larger Map

SURPLUS FURNITURE, EQUIPMENT, & MATERIAL SALE

This Sale is Open to the General Public

Saturday, November 5, 2011

Preview 7:30 - 8:00

Sale Hours  8:00 - 12:00 Noon
Warehouse Annex
15130 NE 95th Street, Redmond, WA.

Goods must be removed between 12:00 Noon - 1:00 PM

Please Contact George Walker, Warehouse Manager if you have any questions.

425-936-1140

A flyer with this Surplus Sale announcement was distributed a couple of days ago to school facilites by the Administration.  There's no announcement on the district website, at this time.   I'm publishing this for the community so they can plan for the sale, too.   Share this news with your friends!  B.Y.

LW School Board seeks public input on next Superintendent

Lake Washington School Board seeks public input on new superintendent.

The Lake Washington School District Board of Directors is embarking on its process to find a successor to Dr. Chip Kimball, who will be leaving after this school year.

As the first step, the board is asking parents and community members to provide input into what they should look for in candidates for that position. School Board President Jackie Pendergrass says:

“Finding the right individual to lead our school district is among the most important tasks we do as a school board.  We have several very important initiatives underway as a district, such as the change in grade configuration of our schools. Given these challenges, we are trying to determine the kind of leader who will best help us complete that work.”  Read More >>

State Audit triggers Evergreen Commission to strengthen oversight of levy-funded services

Charles Pilcher
Evergreen Hosp.commissioner

In early July, the State Auditor's Office gave the Evergreen Administration notice of a 2010 Accountability Audit including the Levy. 

This triggered the Board to take action on key Levy items in their July 6, Board meeting.   The Minutes state, "Commissioner Pilcher is concerned about oversight of levy-funded services and would like to see that strengthened." 

Commissioner Greenfield commented "that levy programs should be able to answer the questions of how they are making the community healthier, what is the measure and rate of change, and are they supporting the strategic objectives of Evergreen?"

Commissioner Hirt commented, "that while the number of beneficiaries is important, program effectiveness is also key."  Ms. Hirt is taking a more active role on the Levy Committee. 

Ms. Laurene H. Burton, Administrative Director,* presented the draft of a new "Levy Committee Charter" on July 19, 2011.  The Charter bolsters oversight of the Levy by identifying and formalizing the Levy Committee purpose, composition, responsibilities and duties.  The Commission was operating without a Levy Charter up until July, 2011. Read More >>

LW School District Administration publishes less restrictive Pet Policy.

The Lake Washington School District Administration writes....

"In order to manage the risks associated with the presence of dogs on district property, the following restrictions applies to dogs on school grounds and in buildings:

No dogs are allowed on district property between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. on any school day, except for bona fide service dogs. No dogs are permitted in district athletic stadiums at any time, except for bona fide service dogs.

*At all other times dogs must be leashed and controlled by owners. Owner must clean up after their dogs and remove waste from district premises.

Service animals and guide dogs are allowed on district property in accordance with state law. The definition of a guide dog and service animal are found in RCW 49.60.040 (8) and (24)."

-- Entire Pet Policy is here:  LWSD website, Administrative Policy, Adopted 8/29/2011

* Previous Administrative Pet Policy restricted dogs on leash after school hours when students (children) were present.  According to the Administration (10/6) new Pet Policy signs will be posted at every school after they are made.  The School Board doesn't vote on Administrative Policies.  B.Y.

UPDATED: Flynn wins key city council endorsements for Richard Cole's position.

(l-r)  Council President Richard Cole, Councilman Hank Margeson, Council Vice President Pat Vache'

UPDATED:  Council President Richard Cole (left) is retiring after 24 years on city council.   Richard was elected in 1988 after a stint as Chair of the Planning Commission.  Mr. Cole has been very active on growth management issues over the years as an Executive Board member on the Puget Sound Regional Council.

Candidates Tom Flynn and Joel Wright are running for Richard's open position, #5.  Councilmembers Hank Margeson (center) and Pat Vache' (right) are endorsing Mr. Flynn for the position.

Councilman Hank Margeson of Education Hill, is running unopposed this year. Hank has taken over some of the work Mr. Cole did on Suburban Cities Association.  Hank is smart, well-liked, and a passionate councilman for our Region.   No one works harder with such zeal and joy as Margeson. 

Opinion By Yoder
Photo by Yoder during a city council "Study Session" in City Hall 

Is the race between Carson and Stewart non-partisan?

David Carson and Sue Stewart campaign signs are at "opposite poles" 

Sue Stewart is endorsed by the 45th District Democrats. - Sue's website
David Carson was sworn* into city council office in 1998 by Republican King County Councilmember Kathy Lambert. 

*Historically and traditionally Redmond elected officials are sworn into office by the city attorney.

"Redmond has a strong Mayor/Council, non-partisan form of government.

The City Council adopts the City budget, establishes law and policy, approves appropriations and contracts, levies taxes and grants franchises."

  -- City of Redmond website

Dave Carson endorsements, Pos. 7
Sue Stewart endorsements, Pos. 7

Posted and Photo By Yoder

Sue Stewart rated "Very Good" by Muni-League for Redmond Council, Pos. 7

Muni-League rates Sue Stewart, Pos. 7 "Very Good" after interviews

Challenger Sue Stewart, Pos 7

Describe your most important personal characteristics or traits as they relate to the office you seek. M.L.

I am a consensus builder. I am able to analyze and drill down to the core elements of what is needed and help broker a solution through a collaborative process.

Please describe, in sufficient detail, one to three accomplishments or contributions of which you are most proud. These examples should illustrate skills and capabilities you think apply to the office you are seeking. These accomplishments may have occurred at any time in your personal, professional, or public life. M.L.

"There are three contributions I am proud to have accomplished and which I believe demonstrate my readiness to serve on the Redmond City Council.

o As a Safety Officer, I am keenly aware of the importance of reducing risk and injury to our employees. The City of Redmond was considering a significant change to the building code to require sprinkler systems in all new home construction, a first in the state of Washington. Using my knowledge of loss control and the associated risks of being a fire responder, Read More >>

What's up with Tom Flynn's "Highest Rated" campaign sign?

Mr. Flynn is advertising his "higher Muni League rating" over opponent Mr. Wright, Pos. 5

The "Highest Rated" tag on Tom Flynn's campaign sign is referring to his Municipal League of King County's candidate rating outcome.  Mr. Flynn is rated "Very Good" by the Muni-League whereas, his opponent Joel Wright is rated "Adequate."

According to the Municipal League, Tom Flynn is rated "Very Good" because he "is a skilled builder of consensus, inspires confidence in the way he would serve, is thorough and attentive to issues." 

Whereas, Joel Wright is rated "Adequate" because he "has a record of participation and interest, is effective on specific issues, has provoked questions about suitability as an office holder, will need significant time/energy to fill gaps in knowledge."

Tom Flynn's Muni-League rating (Pos. 5) isn't higher than Sue Stewart's rating (Pos. 7).  They are both rated "Very Good."   Tom is just comparing his rating with Joel's. 

Sue Stewart's opponent, Dave Carson Pos. 7 was rated "Good."  On August 8, 2011, Mr. Carson wrote:

 "I did not participate with the Municipal League’s rating interview or their questionnaire this  year. I believe them to be less-than-impartial and a complete waste of my time."

The Municipal League is "a volunteer-driven, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that works toward better government in King County, Washington.  Their mission is to promote government that is open, effective and accountable, and to improve the caliber of public officials and the quality of public decisions."


"The League pursues its mission for Candidate ratings with Candidate Evaluation Committees (CEC)
Each CEC conducts the equivalent of a job interview with candidates for public office throughout King County and rates them on their capacity to serve effectively. Every year roughly 75 volunteers give their time to follow the League's well-established system of rating candidates which is based on effectiveness, knowledge, involvement and character. The results are published in a Voters Guide that reaches tens of thousands of voters."
  --The Muni-League Board of Directors:  http://www.munileague.org/about-us/board

Joel Wright's endorsements:  http://wrightforredmond.com/content.php?pg=1
Tom Flynn's endorsements:  http://tomflynnforcouncil.com/endorsements/

Posted By Yoder

RNB isn't endorsing candidates this election though, as a voting resident I'm expressing my personal opinion on candidates.  

A Responsible and Sustainable Budget, By David Carson, Pos. 7



A Responsible and Sustainable Budget

David voted against the 1% property tax increase that passed the council because he felt supporting a budget which relied on the 1% to balance was not intellectually consistent. However, overall the work done by the council is a good body of work to reign in the growth of local government while still addressing the priorities of Redmond.

By instituting the Budgeting by Priorities (BP) process, the council came up with a plan that did require scrutiny and real evaluation of the communities’ priorities. On the whole, he believes that the council passed a landmark budget (minus the tax increase) and this process is getting better with the experience of the first two budget cycles. Redmond has a structurally-balanced budget that extends 6 years into the future which few cities can boast.

 -David Carson's Campaign website

Incumbent David Carson's Endorsements, Pos. 7 
Challenger Sue Stewart's Endorsements, Pos. 7

Redmond Neighborhood Blog isn't endorsing a Candidate for Pos. 7