Ross Hunter proposes billion dollar levy changes to K-12 funding

K-12 Funding Proposal – Local Levy Swap

Posted on November 19, 2011 by Ross Hunter

"I’m stepping outside my role as Ways and Means chairman to put out a personal proposal for comment. The idea described below is a big one, moving around about a billion dollars in property taxes that are used for the support of public schools."  Read More >>

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Excerpts from Ross's proposal: 

• "would no longer need “levy equalization”;  hundreds of millions that we use to correct for the fact that some districts don’t have the property base to collect similar amounts of levies. These districts will be better served by increased state funding and less reliance on levies."

• "we should make local school levies more reliable, since they are likely to be a significant part of school funding well into the future. Instead of voting to renew levies every 4 years we should amend the constitution to allow voters to approve levies that would stay in place until the district wants to increase them." 

Comments?  Comment here or on Ross's blog. 

LETTER: Lake Washington Institute of Technology relies on international students.

LETTER:  In the face of higher education budget cut decisions due out of Olympia before the end of the month, this is an ideal opportunity to highlight the value of our higher education institutions not only to residents, but also our economic partners abroad. Our schools rely on a balance of international students.

Three percent of Lake Washington Institute of Technology's (LWIT) students are international students, who each pay three times the resident tuition.  Five international students provide the funding to add an additional class to our programs that can serve 25 students, and for every $1 in tuition an international student pays, they contribute $7 to the local economy in room, board, travel, expenses, entertainment, etc. What’s more, these international partnerships allow us to send faculty abroad (thus saving a job) when budget cuts dictate elimination of faculty positions at the school.

--By Jen Boyer, Communications Specialist, LWIT

Armed Key Bank robber gobbles up money

Armed Key Bank robber gobbles up money

                                                        
Redmond, WA –Key Bank on the 15100 block of NE 24th Street was robbed shortly after 10:40 a.m. this morning.

The suspect was wearing a dark colored ski mask and carrying a semi-automatic handgun.  He jumped the counter and stole an undisclosed amount of money before fleeing eastbound on foot.  There were no injuries.  
Read More >>

Evergreen Hospital Board approves 2012 Budget; refunds taxpayers $476,799.

Evergreen Hospital Commissioners
at 2010 Redmond ER Medical Center plaza ground-breaking

UPDATED:  The Evergreen Hospital District #2, Board of Commissioners approved the 2012 budget and levies during a Special Public Meeting and Hearing on 7:00AM, November 11, 2011.  Superintendent Bob Malte submitted the budget for approval.  As a citizen-journalist, I attended and spoke at the Hearing. 

READ MORE about the tax increase and capital bond refund to taxpayers >>

UPDATED: Letters: Delaying impact fees is a bad deal, except for builders.

LETTERS:  I recall that in the late-70s, early-80s, interest rates rose to nearly 20% and nobody could afford to buy a house. Entire housing developments that had been built were moth-balled for 6 or 7 years because there were no buyers. (Example: Forest Rim in Issaquah) From 1978-1983, inflation caused prices of most commodities to double and triple. The price of a pound of hamburger went from $.69 to $1.49 in less than a year.

If builders are allowed to postpone their impact fees for many years, will the impact fees be indexed to inflation? The price of building roads, sidewalks, sewers, parks and schools will continue to increase, while the impact fee will be set when the builder first applies for the permit. The school impact fee for a single family residence today is about $3,000. If a building permit is issued today, and the house isn’t completed and sold until 9 years from now when school impact fees have increased to, say, $15,000 per house, will the builder be required to pay $3,000 or $15,000? Allowing builders to pay impact fees when the house finally sells sounds like a bad deal for everyone, except the builders.
--By RNB Reader, 11/22
--submitted to RNB by comment under "Council considering impact fees to time of closing."

UPDATED:

from the desk of Councilmember John Stilin, Ombudsman for the month of November, 2011.

"....The scenario your letter writer [above] presented may be the case in Issaquah.  But here in Redmond impact fee amounts are calculated on the day the fee is paid, not the date the permit is issued.   If impact fees increase after a house is built and the fees have not been paid, the builder will need to pay the higher fee.  So in some cases, it might behoove the builder to pay the fee early to avoid a fee increase..."
  --Councilmember John Stilin, 11/22

"Fall Run," By Reinke



JOHN REINKE / Fall Run

Taken on the meandering sidewalk that goes past La Petite Academy, a short distance from the Tully's Bella Bottega.  The sidewalk continues opposite the Redmond Library.  J.R.

Redmond Firefirghers Union - Santa's Christmas Tour

Santa’s Christmas Tour - 2011

Redmond, WA – The Redmond Firefighters Union - Local 2829, IAFF, will be assisting Santa Claus again this year as he makes his tour through our Redmond Community sharing Christmas cheer and holiday joy. Santa will be transported in the Union’s antique Fire Truck with his very colorful helper, Buddy. Once again, the volunteers on the truck will be accepting non-perishable food donations and unwrapped toys for Hopelink. The Firefighters Union will also match cash donations, up to $500.00, for Hopelink. Please join us, out on your street or driveway as we pass through your neighborhood, and consider a donation for those in need this season.

Below is Santa’s intended schedule; however he reserves the right to reschedule due to inclement weather.

Dec 4 (Sun): Grasslawn East - east of 148th
Dec 5 (Mon): Redmond Ridge
Dec 6 (Tue): Viewpoint South - Station 12 area
Dec 7 (Wed): Viewpoint North - Station 12 area
Dec 8 (Thu): Village at Overlake Station
Dec 9 (Fri): Grasslawn West - west of 148th
Dec 10 (Sat): Rose Hill South
Dec 12 (Mon): Union Hill
Dec 13 (Tue): SE Redmond - behind Station 16
Dec 14 (Wed): East Education Hill
Dec 15 (Thu): West Education Hill
Dec 16 (Fri PM): Central Education Hill
Dec 17 (Sat PM): North Education Hill
Dec 18 (Sun): Make Up
Dec 19 (Mon): Make Up
On behalf of your Redmond Firefighters we wish you a safe and Happy Holiday Season.

UPDATED ON JANUARY 12: LW School District Board considering internal candidates for superintendent.

Pres. Jackie Pendergrass
and school board to decide.

Lake Washington School Board outlines next step for superintendent search

Opinion Updated 1/25:  The School Board will introduce their preferred candidate, Traci Pierce, to the community during "Meet and Greets" (M&G) this January.   Parents and the community are invited to give input to Board members.  Send your feedback to the Board by February 22 at board@lwsd.org and if you have your own preferred candidate let them and your neighbors know!   I like Traci a lot, but prefer Principal Jane Todd, Redmond High for her known community Leadership skills.  

UPDATED OPINION:  At their December 5 meeting the Lake Washington School Board will decide if they want to put forward an internal candidate for Superintendent. 

According to the Administration in a press release,  "the district is in the middle of a major initiative - changing its grade configuration - which will affect every school in the district."   Grade reconfiguration - along with growth pains from the new Stem School, RHS wing, and EHS wing and other immediate challenges - could benefit from "consistent leadership" of an internal candidate.  "Knowledge and experience of these ongoing challenges also favor the consideration of internal candidates," says the Administration.

The Board will evaluate all candidates based on criteria gathered from the online survey ("read more") and interviews with staff and community members.  If they can't decide on an internal candidate, they'll look outside.
 
Do you think an internal candidate is appropriate considering what we're facing for the next few years?  Is an interim Superintendent  an option?   A couple of names that come to mind are Deputy Superintendent of Instructional Services, Dr.Traci Pierce, and Redmond High Principal Jane Todd.  Do you have any recommendations or favorites?   I think Deputy Superintendent Janine Fogard is most effective staying where she is, as Chief Operating Officer.  She knows the district "plumbing" better than anyone.  Ms. Fogard, as Director of Finance, has an excellent business services finance team led by Barbara Posthumus.  Read More>>

Redmond Chamber announces a new Vision, Mission. Participates in "Redmond One" economic development association

Greater Redmond
Chamber of Commerce
16210 NE 80th Street
Redmond, WA 98052
425.885.4014
Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Vision

The Greater Redmond Chamber of Commerce exists to retain, expand and recruit new business; promote community involvement, connect Eastside businesses, and advocate for a vibrant business community.

Mission
Our mission is to help the Redmond business community prosper through advocacy, networking and collaborative community involvement.

"Redmond Chamber votes unanimously to participate in the creation of  "One Redmond",  By Chair Tom Martin, Evergreen Healthcare.  Newsletter article.

Join the Greater Redmond Chamber of Commerce (GRCC), grow your business, enhance the business community.  November Newsletter

•Contribute to the Redmond community.
•Expand your network.
•Build your business.
•Influence government decisions

•Get Involved - Your business will benefit!

UPDATED: Evergreen Hospital District Board of Commissioners to hold Public Hearing on Redistricting Plan

Laurene Burton
Administrative Director
Public Records Officer

"Notice is hereby given that the Board of Commissioners of King County Public Hospital District No. 2 will, on December 6, 2011, at 6:45 p.m., hold a Public Hearing on the Redistricting Plan for Internal Commissioner Districts (“Plan”) based on the 2010 federal decennial census."

If you can't make the Hearing the Board may accept comments for the record by email to Laurene Burton, lhburton@evergreenhealthcare.org. 

According to Evergreen Hospital attorney Mr. Fitzgerald and Administrative Director Laurene Burton, if the "Plan" is approved, the following "votes" will be redistributed based on 2010 federal census: 19,000 votes will be redistributed from Comm. Kempf’s district. 10,000 will be redistributed to Comm. DeYoung’s district and 9,000 will be redistributed to Comm. Hirt’s district.

Two Evergreen Hospital commissioners terms will end in 2013.  Ms. Jeanette Greenfield (member at large) Seat #5 and Ms. Rebecca Hirt (Kirkland/Kenmore) Seat #2.  If you are planning to run for one of these offices contact lhburton@evergreenhealthcare.org for information.  To challenge Ms. Hirt you must reside in the Kenmore/Kirkland District #2.  There are no residency requirements for Seat #5.   Read More >>

City Council considers defering "impact fees" to time of closing

Off -site capital inmprovements are paid by builders as "impact fees"

Local lending institutions are tightening up on builder's and it's hurting our local economic recovery according to city council consensus in their last public meeting.   It's especially difficult for builders to get loans covering their "soft costs" like impact fees.  Impact fees pay for sidewalks and other off-site capital improvements.   Master Builder spokesman, David Hoffman told council that impact fees average $15,000 for new single family homes, causing a serious cash flow problem for builders.  Read More >>

Have you ever called your state Education Ombudsman for help?

In my three years of covering LWSD school board meetings I watched, with anguish,  five Hearings for parents with children, disciplined for alleged cheating.  The Washington State Education Ombudsman's resources might have made all the difference for some of these families.  [Print this page]  B.Y.

Washington State Office of the Education Ombudsman

OEO Website:  "The Office of the Education Ombudsman (OEO) resolves complaints, disputes, and problems between families and elementary and secondary public schools in all areas that affect student learning.  Read More >>

Redmond suspect arrested in alleged ATM skimming at south Everett bank.

Suspect arrested in alleged ATM skimming at south Everett bank

By Rikki King, Herald Writer

EVERETT -- Police here have arrested a man suspected of stealing $185,000 in ATM skimming operations in three states. The latest case involved stealing bank card information from more than 70 people in south Everett.  Read More >>

UPDATED: Over 30 "Supporters of Midwifery at Evergreen" demonstrate, address Board of Commissioners.

Some great news to share:   On Friday, January 6th, two representatives of the group attended a meeting at Evergreen Hospital with members of their administration and staff. During the meeting it was learned that steps are already being taken on the part of Evergreen.... more to come!  Read their Facebook Page, below for all the news and details!

"Support Midwifery at Evergreen" demonstrators/FACEBOOK

Recently, three of Evergreen's five contracted midwives (not hospital employees) were let go.  Regional supporters of midwifery organized, sending letters to the Administration and circulating a website and Facebook Page.  Kay Taylor, Evergreen's Communication and Marketing Director responded favorably to the activists, writing:

"We are evaluating whether we could provide 24-hour midwifery care again in the future. While we are working diligently, the process may not be completed until the end of January."

But this didn't stop their planned demonstration.  Over 30 women, men and children demonstrated outside of Evergreen Hospital yesterday afternoon.  They peacefully carried home-made signs telling Evergreen to bring full service midwifery care back to Evergreen.   About 13 attended the 6:30PM Board of Commissioners meeting (including Minutes) where two midwifery advocates addressed the Board.  Read More >>

Redmond's Grass Lawn Park wins regional award.

Redmond's Grass Lawn Park wins regional award for "the best playground in Puget Sound."

Grass Lawn Park won the Golden Teddy Award as "the best playground in the Puget Sound region", according to results from a reader poll in Seattle-based ParentMap Magazine.  Mayor Marchione made the announcement at the beginning of last night's council meeting.  The ParentMap website also recognized the SecondStory Repertory on their "Best of Seattle" list.  Read More >>

City expects to alter Bear Creek channel this summer



Aerial View of Redmond Town Center, Bear Creek and SR520 - before widening
Historic Bear Creek 100-year Flood Plain in blue (Macy's is red box)



In 2008 WSDOT decided to widen SR520 from 4 lanes to 8 lanes.  The widening occurred in 2009 on the northside of SR520 towards Bear Creek.  The impact to Bear Creek and Redmond Town Center's flood plain was significant enough to warrant realigning (relocating) the creek away from the widening project. 

Earlier, Councilmembers Richard Cole, Kim Allen, and Nancy McCormick traveled to Olympia to request funding to relocate the Creek.  State Finance Chair Ross Hunter allocated $8 Million towards the project.  The City Department of Natural Resources and WRIA (watershed agency) funded another $2 Million.  The project has been held up by the Army Corps of Engineers. 

Yesterday, Roger Dane, Redmond Natural Resources wrote:

"The City continues coordination with the Army Corps in order to secure permit approvals. We believe the agency and their partners are working towards approval, and at this point we expect to be under construction in summer 2012."

Bear Creek is a protected  "Shoreline of the State."   Chinook, a federally-protected Endangered Species live and spawn in it's channels and backwaters.  According to local experts, the salmon run was poor this year.  If you have any questions or suggestions for the city, contact Roger Dane at rdane@redmond.gov.  Word has it the funding is contracted for 5-years before it expires.

The aerial flood plain photo is courtesy of Susan Wilkins, a citizen-geologist.  Sue published  the photo in  her "OPINION: THE SR520 EXPANSION BETWEEN THE SAMMAMISH RIVER BRIDGE AND REDMOND WAY - From 4 lanes in 1992 to 8 lanes in 2008. But at what cost? "

UPDATED - Point - Counterpoint on support of midwifery at Evergreen

Neil Anderson, C.O.O.
Evergreen Healthcare

from the desk of Neil Anderson, C.O.O. Evergreen Hospital  (Neil's letter was sent to those who wrote letters to the Administration in support 24/7 midwifery at Evergreen.)

Thank you for contacting us about your concerns regarding the change in midwifery services available through physicians on the medical staff at Evergreen. I/We appreciate hearing from those we serve.

We, too, appreciate the services the midwives associated with The Center for Women’s Health provide our patients and families. All midwifery services offered at Evergreen have in the past been provided by a private-practice group and recently, this practice made a decision to evaluate their midwifery staffing model. This resulted in the reduction of the number of midwives in their group from five to two.  Read More >>

City of Redmond passes 2010 Annual State Accountability Audit with flying colors.

2010 State Audit of City of Redmond, WA. - Report on Accountability

FROM THE WASHINGTON STATE AUDITOR'S OFFICE:  "We appreciate the opportunity to work in cooperation with your City to promote accountability, integrity and openness in government. The State Auditor’s Office takes seriously our role to advocate for government accountability and transparency and to promote positive change."

Results: "In the areas we examined, the City’s internal controls were adequate to safeguard public assets. The City also complied with state laws and regulations and its own policies and procedures in the areas we examined."  

Audit History: "We audit the City annually. The past six audits of the City reported two findings. The 2006 audit reported a weakness in internal controls over financial reporting. The 2007 audit reported a weakness involving compliance with state bid laws. Both issues [occured the Mayor Rosemarie Ives Administration and] have been resolved."  Read More >>

Chinese Vice Minister of Education to Visit Lake Washington Institute of Technology

Chinese Vice Minister of Education to Visit Lake Washington Institute of Technology, Kirkland, WA:

Dr. Xin Lu, China’s Vice Minister of Education for the country, will visit Lake Washington Institute of Technology (LWIT) tomorrow morning, Nov. 15, 2011, 8 AM with a Chinese delegation to research workforce and technical training programs for use in China.

“This is an extreme honor for the school, and our region on a whole,” said Lin Zhou, associate dean of extended learning at LWIT who helped arrange the visit. “LWIT is the only school Dr. Lu is visiting on this trip to the United States and it is the policy her department creates that dictates higher education structure throughout China. What she learns here could have significant bearing on how the Chinese provide workforce and job skills training.”  Read More >>

Rally in Support of Midwifery Services at Evergreen

Since this November 8, 2011 Press Release, the Evergreen Administration has released letters to explain misunderstandings and clarify their position.   RNB will post these letters and  answering letters from "Support Midwifery at Evergreen."   B.Y.

Rally in Support of Midwifery Services at Evergreen Hospital

Organization: Support Midwifery at Evergreen Hospital, Kirkland, WA.   11/8/2011
Contact: Anna Starikov
Phone: 425.681.3813
Website: www.SupportEvergreenMidwifery.org

Cuts to the only midwifery program affiliated with Evergreen Hospital have outraged Eastside families who support an in-hospital midwifery program.

Families and birth professionals plan to rally in front of the Evergreen Family Maternity Center on Tuesday, November 15th at 4 pm to show their support for midwifery at Evergreen. They also plan to attend the Board of Commissioner’s meeting that evening at 6:30 pm to voice their concerns in the Physicians and Surgeons Building, Tan 200. 

The organizations Facebook is www.Facebook.com/SupportMidwiferyAtEvergreen and has over 614 members as of November 14.  Read More >>

Redmond Girls Finish 3rd Place at State Cross Country Meet

Redmond Girls Cross Country Team finish 3rd Place in State Meet, Pasco, WA.
Head Coach Denis Villeneuve has been managing the program 21-years

Redmond Girls Finish 3rd Place at State Meet

Sunday, November 6, 2011 --The Redmond Girls Cross Country Team, led by Senior Captains: Holly Young and Allie Nichols caps an amazing season with a 3rd Place finish at State Meet! Megan Legresley (5th) and Kelsey Dunn (9th) qualify for BorderClash race on November 20th.

The girls raced a 5,000 meter course on Sun Willows Golf Course, Pasco, WA, finishing with 100 points.  Tahoma was first with 88 points; Bellaremine Prep 2nd with 99.   

A young boys team, led by Captains Max Dunn & Lex Mundell, finishes 11th ahead of Skyline. Complete Results posted on athletic.net.

This YouTube Video gives you a sense of what makes this team so successful: teamwork and the support of friends, family and coaches. Thank you to those Superfans who made the trip to Pasco! More pictures and memories can be found on the RHS XC Facebook Page.

Redmond Mustang SUPERFANS are #1

Posted by Kate Dunn on RHS XC Facebook Page
Team photo by Heather Young

Redmond High Principal Todd writes parents about the power of community in addressing drug abuse

Principal Jane Todd, Redmond HS writes in the November issue of the "Mustang Messenger"

"....I know the world has changed.  As an example, as I write this, on October 31, 2011, we are projected to reach 7 billion people worldwide today. In the 60's, the world population was 2 billion. But I also know that people are pretty much the same, albeit a bit more harried. I experienced the power of community growing up, but I have also experienced the power of community time after time as an adult.  Read More >>

LWSD - PTSA presents "Anxiety and ADHD," By Chris McCurry

Tuesday, November 22, 7 – 9 pm

LWSD Resource Building,16250 NE 74th St, Redmond 98052 (Redmond Town Center)  

"Anxiety and ADHD:  Too Many Hands on the Wheel"

Presented by Dr Chris McCurry

About 1 in 4 children with an ADHD diagnosis will meet criteria for an anxiety disorder and 1 in 4 children with an anxiety disorder will meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD. This lecture will explore the role of attention in childhood anxiety disorders. We will look at the origins of attention and anxiety problems in a child’s biology (temperament), thinking and language development, and early social and academic experiences. We will discuss parent strategies for effectively managing stressful and anxious situations by managing attention in the moment.

Christopher McCurry, Ph.D., is a clinical child psychologist in private practice. He is a clinical assistant professor in the departments of psychology and at the University of Washington in Seattle, WA. He specializes in the assessment and treatment of children who are experiencing behavioral and emotional problems including anxiety disorders, attention deficit disorder, organization difficulties and underachievement in school, social deficits and differences; and defiant & explosive behavior in children. He has recently completed his first book entitled, “Parenting Your Anxious Child with Mindfulness and Acceptance: a powerful new approach to overcoming fear, panic, and worry using acceptance and commitment therapy”. For more information about his work & book, please go to http://chrismccurry.com/my-book/

from the desk of Julie Shalaby, LW PTSA - Special Needs

Redmond City Council approves backyard chicken code

 Council approves Animal Husbandry (backyard chicken) code 6-2 (Carson and Cole voting NO).  A noted requirement is convenents will be honored and supercede the animal husbandry code.

Redmond City Council held a final study session November 7 on "Small Animal Husbandry" - commonly known as "Backyard chickens."  Their normal Tuesday meeting was cancelled for the Election.  Council plans to adopt  "Backyard chicken policy and code" on December 6, without any further study sessions.

After thorough discussion, Council consented to Chicken regulations.  The ordinance is expected to include the following code: 

• Mandatory registration.  (Permits, subject to land use requirements, are not required.
• Maximum allowable chickens decided by Residential zoning only.  Lot size is irrelevant.
• One Acre (R-1) and 1/2 acre (R-2) lots are allowed a maximum of 10 chickens (hens only).
• R-4 fand R-5 lots are the most common SFH lots in Redmond.  (4-5 lots/acre).  R-4 lots allowed a  maximum of 4 hens, R-5 allowed a maximum of 3 hens.  R-6 maximum 3 hen
• In R-8 lots chickens won't be allowed.
• Setbacks:  15' setbacks for adjacent property required with exceptions.
• Slaughter:  May slaughter 1 chicken per day on site.  More than 1 chicken must be slaughtered off-property in a slaughterhouse, farm, non-residential area. 
• Predators:  sturdy coop required
• City Small Animal Husbandry Code will not supersede Homeowners Associations (HOA). 
• No roosters

Councilmember Kim Allen was the proponent.  She ran the meeting and drove consensus.  Councilmember Hank Margeson had experience in Tacoma with backyard hens in his yourth and was considered a council 'expert.'  Hank suggested "no more than a handful of chickens," except for 1/2 acre lots.  He said "chickens should only supplement food, not feed a family of four year-round."  Councilman Myers suggested keeping the rules simple saying too many regulations will keep people from participating.  Councilmember Carson said his wife (who's a real estate agent) would immediately get chickens if she knew the ordinance was adapted.  Carson owns a 9,000 SF lot and  two dogs and two cats.  Margeson owns a horse and raised 3 hens as a kid living in Tacoma.  Mayor Marchione was present and quiet throughout the discussion.

Cole, Stilin, and Vache were openly concerned about chicken owners who mistreat or mis-manage their poultry.  Code enforcement was their big issue.  Apparently, the history of chicken neglect and nuisance in other cities is very low.  Cole ended the discussion stating he won't endorse backyard chickens on the basis of:  smell, noise, real estate, disease, predators, potential for harm to the animals.  His property is governed by HOA rules. 

Councilmember Hank Margeson refered to Sustainable Redmond for their help in getting the word out and educating Redmond citizenry. 

Reported By Bob Yoder

Lake Washington School Board President Pendergrass ran unopposed after Hudson withdrew - takes 55.38% of vote

School Board Pres. J.  Pendergrass

Jackie Pendergrass, a longtime board member and  board president won 55.38% of the votes.  She ran unopposed, though the Voter's Pamphlet published Cynthia Hudson as an opponent.  Cynthia withdrew from the race this summer but Ms. Hudson still got a surprisingly large vote of 44.24%. 

Ms. Pendergrass will continue to hold her District #1, Board of Directors seat.  District #1 includes Kirkland, including Juanita.  

The three Lake Washington School district board of directors races were also unchallenged, but one of the school board member positions will be filled by Education Hill's  Siri Bliesner, a Redmond resident. Ms. Bliesner will replace Ravi Shahani, District position #5.  Ravi didn't file for re-election after serving 10 years in the position.

Mr.Chris Carlson, PhD, of Kirkland, ran unopposed taking 99.06% of the ballots cast.  Newcomer Ms. Siri Bliesner took 98.90%., as of November 8. 

The levy bond failure limiting capital funding for remondernization of Juanita H.S.and longer distance to the eastside STEM school didn't appear to influence the vote for Carlson.

The reported election result quotes are preliminary, as of the 11/8/2011, 8:15 PM count. 

Who is Siri Bliesner?
 http://redmondcity.blogspot.com/2011/10/siri-bliesner-poised-to-be-new-member.html

The King County Election Results link:  http://redmondcity.blogspot.com/p/2011-election-voting-guide.html
City of Redmond Election Results link: http://your.kingcounty.gov/elections/elections/201111/respage44.aspx

Reported By Bob Yoder

LW School District operates without written job descriptions - Administration delays implementation

LWSD ADMINISTRATION HAS BEEN PLANNING TO WRITE "JOB DESCRIPTIONS" SINCE 2009:

OPINION:  Lake Washington School District Administration and staff currently operates and manages without written job descriptions. As early as November 18, 2009, Communications Director Reith wrote, "Formal standardized job descriptions are currently being revised."

On August 17, 2011, Communications Directer, Kathryn Reith writes:

"While the district is working on formalizing job descriptions for district positions, we have not yet completed that task for the positions listed on the organizational chart."

The benefits of job descriptions, beyond "tasks and duties" include: recruiting plans, performance development, quality and safety programs, compliance with laws and regulations, balancing work assignments, position postings and advertisements and revised planning within your performance management system. The question has arisen: how do administrators do their job when they don't know what's expected of them?

In an August, 2011 Board meeting, Kimball reported a 9% employee turnover rate. The Administration has never conducted formal exit interviews; In the August, 2011 meeting, the Board agreed exit interviews should take place. As of 11/18/2011, no action has been reported by the Administration.

Opinion By Bob Yoder
Photo:  By cartoonstock.com
Source: "How to write an effective job description and role profile." By Michelle Fischer 

The search continues for two-year old Sky Metalwala - Redmond Police ask for tips

A Redmond Police "Command Center" was set-up yesterday at the Downtown Metro Park & Ride
Many thanks to the RNB reader who tipped me off on this operation.
The white motor home is affectionately nick-named  "The Whale"

Q-13FOX video from Monday night's program- an interview with the father

 Bellevue, WA – The search continues for Sky Metalwala reported missing Sunday. There are still many unanswered questions regarding his disappearance.  

Along with Bellevue police detectives, multiple resources have joined the investigation, including FBI, King County Search and Rescue, Redmond Police Department, and the King County Guardian One Helicopter.  Read More >>

"Library Colors," By Reinke

JOHN REINKE / Redmond Library Colors

Chamber Luncheon presentation: James Donaldson, NBA player and author "Standing Above the Crowd"

you are invited to...
Membership Luncheon
Greater Redmond Chamber of Commerce (GRCC)
Wednesday, November 16th, 2011

Presenting....
James Donaldson, former NBA player and author of "Standing Above the Crowd"

Donaldson pulls examples from his life to inspire others to action. Although he stands at 7-feet, 2-inches tall, success was not a given for Donaldson.

His speeches cover themes like:

- Employee motivation. Are your employees feeling unappreciated, unmotivated, less team/more     individualistic, overworked and underpaid?

- What is stress? And how you can stop it from eating you alive

- How to set goals and stay on track with your goals in these difficult economic times?

- Is your athletic performance and health being challenged in our tough economic times?

at Matts' Rotisserie - Redmond Town Center
from 11:30 am - 1:00 pm

$30 Members $40 Non-members

Luncheons sponsored by:

Overlake Hospital Medical Center

Microsoft

Puget Sound Energy

RSVP to carlaj@redmondchamber.org

2011 Local Election Voters' Guide - Redmond Neighborhood Blog

Welcome to the RNB Voters' Guide. I hope you'll find my Guide a useful resource!   Bob.

Tuesday, November 8

Here >> Election Voters' Guide - Greater Redmond, WA.

2011 Election - Candidate News - Initiatives - Resolutions

Comprehesive coverage of City of Redmond, Lake Washington School District, and Evergreen Public Hospital District elections.

Here >>  http://redmondcity.blogspot.com/p/2011-election-voting-guide.html

Redmond High School PTSA Presidents' Fall Letter announces "Much Ado About Nothing"

"From the desk of Jan LaFond and Shelley Flores, Presidents' RHS-PTSA"...

Hello to all,

As we move through the fall season, many have settled into school year routines. It's a busy period at Redmond High as students learn to deal with their new academic demands, participate in fall sports, after school clubs, and other creative activities. It's also an exciting time when new friendships begin and students come across old acquaintances from earlier years.

The fall has brought some highlights. Redmond High was involved in the Nick of Time event in early October, a community based screening for heart-related conditions in youth. Your PTSA was involved in the effort, providing food and beverages to the professional volunteers.

RHS students celebrated Homecoming in mid-October with a fabulously fun assembly, a close football game and a wonderful dance the next evening. The Leadership students, in conjunction with the PTSA, put together this great weekend! Many clubs created or contributed unique items for sale at the annual Homecoming Round-up. All funds raised benefit the specific goals of each of these very diverse and committed clubs.

The bands and orchestra have presented their fall concerts. The theater arts production of "Much Ado about Nothing" is right around the corner, beginning in early November.

This is but a sampling of the activity at RHS this fall. We hope it's been a positive and productive time for all RHS students and families!

Sincerely,

Jan LaFond and Shelley Flores
Presidents, RHS-PTSA
Mustang Messenger, November 3

Contact us at rhs.ptsa.news@gmail.com. For more information about the PTSA, please visit our web site at http://www.redmondhsptsa.org/. Many thanks to our members and our community partners. 

Discover Yoga, Roos Orthodontics, Regal Finance Bank are a few of the RHS-PTSA community partners.  B.Y.

"Why I'm running for Redmond City Council," By Tom Flynn

Tom Flynn (gold tie) and Hank Margeson (blue tie) at Leadership Eastside event

"Why I'm running for Redmond City Council," By Tom Flynn  (Ref:  Muni-League Questionnaire)

"I moved to Redmond in 1992 and raised my son and daughter here. During my many years in Redmond, I have come to appreciate the city’s parks and green spaces, strong economy, and friendly neighborhoods. I am running for Redmond City Council to help preserve these attributes for future generations. I plan to contribute my community leadership experience in developing and maintaining strong policies for preservation of our streams and waterways, green space, forested areas, and city parks. I am also an advocate of economic development to promote working and high wage jobs, and to help businesses locate and succeed in the city. And I want the city to continue to develop programs that promote improved communication between the city and its many neighborhoods. I hope that this will bring neighbors together, and they will become more familiar with what’s happening in their neighborhoods.

I am also running for office because Ì would like to see Redmond become a place known for its combination of high tech, arts, and culture. As the urban areas in the city develop, I will advocate for functional and attractive buildings and spaces that will be inviting and livable for a variety of residents. I am also supportive of policies and programs that promote sustainable options in transportation, including light rail to downtown Redmond. Light rail will be critical to keeping Redmond connected with the Puget Sound region.  Read More>>

Evergreen Healthcare and Virginia Mason Announce Strategic Partnership

 

Evergreen Healthcare and Virginia Mason Medical Center's boards announced today their intent to form a stragegic partnership. 

SEATTLE - KIRKLAND (Nov. 2, 2011) — Evergreen Healthcare and Virginia Mason Medical Center's boards announced today their intent to form a strategic partnership.

A letter of agreement is expected to be signed in mid-November. Through this partnership, Virginia Mason and Evergreen will collaborate to provide patients with the highest quality, cost-effective health care.

As partners, the two integrated health systems will remain independent while collaborating on wide-ranging initiatives from the shared use of medical services to the development of new treatments and technologies.

"In Evergreen, we've found a partner whose values and commitment to quality, innovation and superior outcomes at the lowest possible cost mirror our own," said Gary S. Kaplan, MD, chairman and CEO of Virginia Mason.

"This partnership is a platform from which both organizations will grow in ways that make clinical and economic sense for our patients, our communities, and each of the partners without costly duplication of services," said Kaplan.   Read More >>

Source:  Virginia Mason Website

Seattle Times article, 11/2

King County helps you opt out of nuisance phone book deliveries

"From the Redmond City Council Desk of Hank Margeson..."

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I opted out of three phone books today and got this report of what we saved! -- B.Y. 

Have you noticed them?  Tripped-up on them?  Avoided them?  Pack-rat'ed them?  Yes, them phone books are BACK!   Thank you Councilman Hank Margeson for telling us at last night's council meeting  how we can OPT OUT!   

Say ‘No!’ to junk mail with new King County EcoConsumer online service

Project with non-profit Catalog Choice makes unwanted mail opt-outs easier
King County residents can now make unwanted mail go away with just a few clicks on their computer.

“You have the ability to opt out of junk mail now to stop the flurry of holiday catalogs you don’t want,” said King County Executive Dow Constantine. “Recycling is great, but reducing waste at the source is even better.”  Read More >>

UPDATED: King County Councilmember Jane Hague describes Labor Policy success story to Redmond officials

King County Councilmember Jane Hague

REPUBLISHED:  In a March, 2011 Business Meeting, Redmond City Council heard a startling report from Jane Hague forecasting large bus service reductions in King County Metro for 2012 - 2015. 

Why?  Sixty-two percent of Metro's budget is funded by sales tax revenue and revenues are significantly down in this economy.  Hague, one of two King County Councilmembers representing Redmond citizens gave the city council reassurances.   

The good news?   Read More >>

LETTER: Parking lot by Police Station, good alternative to busy Redmond Transit Center Garage

Hi Bob,

Just a quick update: the Redmond Transit Center Garage is filling up by 8:30 most days. If I head for the bus any time after 8:00 am I automatically go to the lot by the police station now, as do several other people. Once the bridge tolling begins, this will get much worse. It is so fantastic that we now have this extra lot to truly support commuting for Redmond residents.

Kathy O'Connor

In this aerial photograph, the parking lot is the elongated circle just west of QFC adjacent 160th Ave.

View Larger Map

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.