OPINION: 7/19/07 Shaughnessy Heights PRD - longest land-use plat review in Redmond history

OPINION

/17/07 - Last night's citizen appeal to council of the Shaughnessy Heights, 15.1 acre 42-lot development adjacent Redmond El. will go down in the history books. It was the longest running plat review in city history - much owing to our PRD (Planned Residential Use) policy allowing for clear-cuts and greater densities.
The proposed development of approximately 42 lots (including duplexes) is serviced by one road in&out adjacent Redmond Elementary School. Deforestation and loss of habitat would occur almost in size of Perrigo Heights.

Though traffic safety and habitat issues came up, the two main legal issues were about tree buffering and adequate water service to the nearby neighborhoods. After much discourse the Council decided 7-0 to deny the permit and uphold the appeal of six citizens; and remand the appeal back to the Hearing Examiner to allow a second, open Public Hearing.
Six citizens appealed, led persuasively by S. Howard and J. Richardson. Public Notification deficiencies were again, a major source of dissent. The Hearing Examiner did not allow scores of citizens to appeal in writing owing to a technicality. Alert citizens purchased audio tapes of the Hearing Examiner's appeal hearing to have proof for their case. Councilwoman Kim Allen asked that a comprehensive letter be written to the Hearing Examiner advising changes in his Party of Record policy.
Problems with the City's Planned Residential Development (PRD) permit resurfaced. Citizens were very upset that a line of trees buffering their neighborhood from the development would be stripped. The trees would provide a valuable buffer from seven proposed towering new homes. Councilman Vache empathized since Mosaic Meadows project impacts his property in a similar fashion.
The developer claimed he was technically meeting city requirements for significant tree count and pervious soils by accounting for it though the parcel's "native growth easement". ("Native growth easements" is land that can't be developed because of steep slopes, ravines, streams, etc.) Thus, the developer claimed he should be allowed to strip out the neighboring buffer trees claiming them unsafe.
The neighborhood citizens countered saying their trees would not be safe with concerns for quality of life.Allen, Marchione, and Vache, offered impressive analysis and decision-making. But, Council President McCormick's hallmark statement warrants quotation.
After thanking Ms. Allen for articulating the case so well, Council President Ms. Nancy McCormick movingly stated:

"The public process may not have been violated but it was twisted. I can't keep from thinking about that couple who appeared at the Tent City public meeting and signed up to be Party of Record only to be denied on appeal to be heard.

The public needs accurate information and timeliness of an appeal, otherwise we make a mockery out of Public Hearings and caring about public involvement."
Ms. McCormick's motion to deny and uphold the appeal passed unanimously. The public is invited to review the project once again.
10/8/07 SUMMARY COMMENTS FROM TWO APPELLANTS NEIGHBORING THE PROJECT; The neighborhood appealants 'lost' to the landowner.
NEIGHBOR Ian -
The disappointing thing in my mind is that we had to put forth a very large amount of effort to secure the condition that adds this new buffer, when I feel that the city should have been the one putting that requirement into place from the beginning. Somehow the city didn’t even know that the right of way had no trees in it, even though there’s a sewer line running down it, which means they would have cleared it at some point of trees to put in that line.
Codes such as what Kirkland has in place are really the only good way to go about preserving mature trees. Even if we could have gotten the developer to leave the strip of trees along the border, I don’t think I would want them to do so, given that they’d be clearing out all the trees behind them, exposing that strip to new wind forces that could bring them down on my house. Kirkland’s codes on the other hand would have prevented the clearing of significant trees behind the strip as well, preserving the wind break and forcing developers to build around existing trees. Now, for all I know, Kirkland may also have similar development programs like the PLAT which allow developers to use different rules as long as they meet some criteria, but I know that at least the starting point for Kirkland development projects is more tree friendly than what we have here in Redmond.
However, given that we can’t protect the large trees along that strip, and that we can’t really stop the development outright, I think we’ve managed to secure the next best thing: a new buffer of trees to be planted along that boundary which meets our requirements for screening, in exchange for our support of the project going forward (no more appeals basically, and an email voicing that support to the city now that the new condition is in place).
-Ian. 10/8/07
From Steve Howard: We could never stop the developer from taking the big trees, since the city allows the tree numbers to be measured over the entire site. Or in other words it gives the developer a license to clear cut the land where they plan on putting the new houses. I would love to see a way to require that 35% of the trees must remain across the site. including the building area. The present codes and how they are read allows the developers to play a math game with our mature trees receiving no protection. This is wrong. 10/8/07

7/7/07 Mayor Ives could have partnered AND negotiated to save Perrigo Woods

7/18/07 During last night's Council meeting regarding Perrigo Heights easement, Councilwoman Kim Allen voiced concerns for the three, long 20-30 foot wide easements that had been stripped clean of all trees. The easements are for sewer, stormwater and water pipes. CAMWEST indicated that new trees would be planted on these easements. I don't think so! as I recall, common construction practices are to plant only native vegetation cover, NOT trees -- because tree roots can work their way into the pipes. Question: why didn't the Director of Public Works or the Senior Planner approach the podium to clarify Camwest's answer. If not for Councilwoman Kim Allen then the viewing public ? ??

Stormwater piping will be trenched under an ancient Snoqualmie Indian village site directly into Perrigo Creek. The stormwater will be released downstream from the wetland into Perrigo Creek. Thus, all rainwater from the forest (now the development) will be diverted away from the wetlands! With the trees stripped, sun is now "feeding" invasive plants in the wetlands. The wetlands are drying; possibly now slowing "dying". Public Works and Parks have been notified and will monitor this Priority park wetland resource.

7/16/07, The city's new "shell game" with our capital funds

What you are about to read will take you to a place you've never been; and even with a good map you'd probably get lost trying to find your way out.

The place? Redmond's Capital Fund "Cavern". It's a dark, squishy place where a headlamp won't help and the more your squirm the deeper you sink. Even council bumps against the walls.
Redmond's 2007-2008 budget has 3 "Funding Sinkholes" (shells):

1) General Fund ($127M),

2) Utilities Fund ($116M),

3) Capital Fund (CIP) $216M.

For over 5 sessions the council and mayor have been playing a 'shell game' with taxpayer Capital funds (CIP) and our General Funds. It's close to impossible to keep up with the game because the rules change from council meeting to meeting. "Now you see it, now you don't."

The $32 million of "Unallocated capital (CIP) funds" quoted in our recent 2007-08 budget was "played down" to $13 million two weeks ago by Council. $32 million was "re-programed" to a more manageable number . At the last meeting, council "clarified" the $32M unallocated funds are "in reality" only $20M; since, $7M of those funds are "programed" for various reserves (operating, building, insurance) and other programs, leaving ta,dah! $13M in unallocated reserves! Why wasn't this $19M of "programed expenses" not written up in the Blue Book Budget? When the public doesn't know these "things", the budget and people are lost in the abyss. I for one, could have used the info in my Reporter article on Perrigo Heights to better explain the city decision not to "go after" the land acquisition.

After thorough review of last week's taped council sessions some of the recent CIP shell games are described below. Even with close scrutiny council dialogue is muffled, the CIP shells move too fast and council's shell choice (fund) is often fleeting. It appears the purpose of the game is to keep us guessing, confused, apathetic, unknowing. The message of the game? Perhaps -- the less we know about "their" business, the better.

"Citizen Vicky" (during an "Items from the Audience" talk) couldn't understand why Council would think to classify the City Hall as a General Operating Fund expense. After all, buildings are "capital" costs. Mayor Ives awakened when Vicky threatened an audit. The next week, council conveniently "re-classified" the City Hall lease from the "operating" to a "capital fund" (CIP). City Hall funds are now paid out of two smaller CIP capital funds -- " the "General Government CIP" and the "Council Contingency CIP". PRESTO! the state auditor issue vanishes.

CIP funds are as proliferate as breeding rabbits!

The above is just one example of a CIP shell game and how convoluted and discombobulated the budget process is at City Hall. In the real world of accounting one would presume funding a $40M building as anything other than an operating expense.

Not so for the City of Redmond.
SUPER FAST SHELL GAME - "THE LIGHTENING ROUND": City Hall maintenance & operations (M&O) is "captured' by the Capital Fund (CIP) but instantaneously transferred to the General operating fund to pay for city hall maintenance & operations (M&O). Keep in mind, CIP capital funds have always been generated by an annual 5%/year General Fund transfer. The Mayor had to write some new shell playing directions to accommodate this new dog chasing & "capturing" his tail strategy.

Thanks again to "Citizen Vicky's participation at "Items" for straightening the books. This particular game is fast!! And, KUDOS to Mr. Marchione for sticking his neck out bring transparency to the public.

A councilmember told me today the city "operating and capital budgets" change from meeting-to-meeting. So, it appears!

Thus, the CIP shells are moving incessantly AND NO ONE IS ACCOUNTABLE -- council, mayor, or staff --- unless the state performs an audit. Pardon my opinion, but don't you think tax-paying citizens deserve a budget audit from time to tim? Will our new Mayor request an audit to start off with a clean slate? Have the city books ever been audited at all? Does the dynamism of our three funds (Utility, CIP, General operating) have to be as complicated to the public as our Finance Director indicates? Will the next Administration stabilize and simplify CIP shell movements to a reasonable level of visibility and understanding for the viewing public?

Parks Shell game 3: Prior to the levy proposal, Council had long conversations about charging Parks Maintenance & Operations (M&O) to the Capital Fund (CIP) rather then the General Fund. It appeared all councilmembers and the mayor agreed with this change. After all, this reallocation would reduce the total amount citizens would be levied from 9 cents/thousand assessed to 5 cents and make the levy more palatable to the voters.

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Parks Shell game 3 (continued): Two weeks later another citizen emailed his confusion about the wording of Proposition 2 (Parks levy) --- stating a good portion of the levy $$ goes to funding Maintenance and Operations. But if M&O is now to be paid from the Capital Fund then why does the city need an M&O levy to reload the parks operating fund? .

"are you still tracking the shell?" (I had to replay the game tapes more than once to follow my shell)

Parks Shell game 3 (continued):

At last Tuesday's Council Study Session the Mayor and council reached closure on the Parks M&O quandary by concluding (epiphany) the Capital funded Parks M&O decision was intended for 2-years out into the future --- NOT this biennium! Swhoosh! - away goes bad CIP shell and Proposition 2 is now "good to go" as written. ie. M&O parks funds will be funded by the levy's general operating fund --at least til after the levy vote --at which time the shells start moving again.

"Do you know under which shell your tax dollars are now" ? Most games last only a few hours; maybe a few weeks. Are you willing to track your shell into the next biennium?
Shell game 4: McCormick mentioned recently 10 other smaller CIP funds that are out there and need a looking at. But, that's another game, yet to be played.
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The city's 2007-2008 Operating Budget was completed June of 2006 . The city's 6-year capital funding program (CIP) was "completed" and published in the same blue, 307 page binder as the city's 2-year operating budget. It can be purchased for $6.75 from the cashier; highly recommended if you are a serious player.
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FACTOIDS FROM THE JULY 10, 2007 Council study session.
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The city's average daily cash balance (float) is $125M.
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The city is planning to borrow $78M to pay for: 1) Bear Creek Pkwy, 2) Sewer and 3) Stormwater for downtown redevelopment.
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The City Hall costs $1.4M/year to lease and $500-600,000/year to maintain. City Hall maintenance is 3-4% of the $40M (Robinson). By 2012 cash resources will be depleted for city hall.
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SUPER SHELL GAME: City Hall M&O is "captured' by the Capital Fund (CIP) and transferred to the General Fund to pay for city hall M&O. (CIP is generated by transferring 5%/year to from the General fund). (MARCHIONE's clarification)
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Parks M&O costs $614M for two years, but Parks is responsible for maintaining the new Red-Fall City median ($50K) and other expensive road medians. Council talked of transferring all median M&O expenses from Parks to the Transportation Capital (CIP) Fund. This shell game will free up lots more Parks M&O operating funds for use by Parks (rather than medians). So, why do we need to raise the lid for additional parks M&O operating funds? Answer: Developed parks are sacred in Redmond. Just look at the $10K cushman cart at Hartman Park carrying 2 workers for litter patrol -- one worker to drive and the other to use the litter tool.

FROM RICHARD MORRIS:
The City budget has been carefully crafted by the City Council, which is their main thing. The council is good at this sort of fiscal responsibilty. Mayor Rosemarie Ives has pushed for increased spending for operations, and the City Council has kept a steady eye on the budget. The City Council has been faithful to low property tax increases over the past several years, and voters have responded to the appeal for funding new parks, such as Perrigo Park and Hartman Park. The budget is a public document and is the result of many hours of hard work by City staff and council members. I am proud to call Redmond my home, and I congratulate the council for crafting a budget that is balanced, when there are so many pressures to borrow money and raise taxes.Hartman Park now has 6 baseball fields. During the ball season they are heavily utilized. It is amazing that a small crew can keep the park looking great. This park is a jewel and a wonderful community asset.
Friday July 20, 2007 - 06:16pm (PDT)

FROM YODER:
I'd hope some day the city would invest in a "passive" natural park -- low on maintenance-- and meeting the needs of our growing 60 year + demographic. It's fantastic we have many well-maintained active recreational parks but natural space gets scarcer every day.
Friday July 20, 2007 - 10:50pm (PDT)

FROM SATIN:
High maintenance parks are not scalable. We definitely need to examine alternative ways to reduce maintenance. Also we should explore creating "Park Teams" (local people) that organize to assist with maintaining and being an advocate for parks in Redmond. While I enjoy using the parks, I also enjoy ensuring they are preserved and in as good a shape as they can be so all can enjoy for generations.

Troubling events requiring further investigations

From Jon Spangler, Dept. of Natural Resources

BOB YODER -
Thank you for taking the time to e-mail us (and for hiking the Hartman park wetland). The City has been visually monitoring the wetland for the last several years. The dry conditions you experienced are not unusual for this time of year given the current weather patterns. The Natural Resources Division has had some preliminary consultant investigation done on the wetland in recent years and there are options to adjust local drainage patterns if conditions do deteriorate. For now we plan to continue our visual observations. Jon Spangler, Stormwater, C.O.R.
Tuesday July 3, 2007
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Thank you for your concerns and suggestions regarding the Hartman Park wetlands. In the future, we will actively monitor these wetlands for implementation of appropriate management practices to ensure their health. We will also work cooperatively with the Natural Resources Division on this situation. Please contact me if you have any further concerns or suggestions.

Dave Tuchek, Assistant Manager City of Redmond Park Operations,
MOCPK425-556-2318Fax 425-556-2373
dtuchek@redmond.gov
Monday July 9, 2007 -

8/1/07, Proposition 2 - Parks Ballot Measure Levy Lid-Lift

Proposition 2 Ballot Title and Explanatory Statement for Parks Ballot Measure

This proposition funds operation and maintenance of park facilities and programs, such as the teen center, conservation, and after-school programs. It authorizes an increase in the regular property tax rate for collection in 2008 of $0.05 per $1,000 of assessed valuation, for a total rate (if only this proposition passes) of $1.23 per $1,000 of assessed valuation. The 2008 levy amount would become the base upon which levy increases would be computed for succeeding years.

Should this proposition be approved?

Explanatory Statement The City of Redmond relies on property taxes to provide basic services such as parks and recreation programs. Redmond’s current total property tax rate is $1.18 per $1,000 of assessed valuation. The proposed increase of five cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation would be about a $21 annual increase on an average home in Redmond. The proposed increase of five cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation will go directly to support parks facilities, maintenance and recreation programs. This proposed increase only applies to the Redmond portion of your tax bill, not your entire property tax bill.

The growth of Redmond’s population creates a demand for additional parks and recreation programs. As of 2006, the Parks Department maintains 1,136.8 acres of parks and open space, 24.7 miles of developed trails and 12 miles of street landscaping. In addition, after-school programs and recreation for teens and younger children are in high demand.

This levy increase would fund programs, such as:

• Maintenance and operations of neighborhood, community and downtown parks and natural areas.


• Added teen center hours and programs.


• After-school programs for elementary and junior high aged children.


• If only this proposition passes, the City of Redmond will be allowed to levy up to $0.05 per $1,000 of assessed valuation to invest solely in the future maintenance and operations of parks and support needed recreation programs.

Property Tax Exemptions King County offers various property tax exemptions for those on fixed incomes, including seniors and the disabled. For information on eligibility and other requirements: WEB: www.metrokc.gov/assessor/Exemptions/Exemptions.htm PHONE: 206-296-3920


FROM BOB YODER - It is most unfortunate the Council did not authorize the use of $32 million UNALLOCATED CIP (capital/general fund) dollars and Mayor Ives did not negotiate in earnest to acquire and conserve the Perrigo Heights Woodlands in perpetuity as a natural park. Redmond now is without any "priority habitat" urban forest, other than "steep slope". Did the Council forget Perriog Springs Woodlands would be very inexpensive to maintain and development costs would have been nil?
Thursday June 28, 2007 - 08:19am (PDT)


FROM RICHARD MORRIS - The Seattle Times published an appeal (Sunday, July 29, 2007) for supporting King County Parks thru voting on tax propositions. The editor stated “reluctant support”.I live in Redmond, where we have a City Proposition #2 seeking support for City parks. (See www.RedmondParksLegacy.org) It feels natural to support a tax increase to support parks in my city before supporting King County parks. Naturally, tax payers want to know how the money raised will be spent on parks. Tax payers have a significant tax bill that is cumulative for schools, hospitals, city, county, and state operations.King County has a huge number of parks, but as operations are transferred to cities, the need for county taxes supporting parks should be reduced. For instance, see http://www.metrokc.gov/parks/parks/fairgrounds.htmlKing County and the City of Enumclaw completed an agreement to transfer the King County Fairgrounds and four nearby county-owned parcels of land to the City of Enumclaw. The transaction included $2 million in county funds to help transform the properties into a major tourist attraction. The move is expected to provide a major catalyst for economic development on the Enumclaw Plateau.
Tuesday July 31, 2007 - 06:10pm (PDT)

FROM BOB YODER
#1 I think it was a good move when the King Cty. transferred Idlewood Park to the City of Redmond. The Parks Dept. recently funded additional lifeguards and they are thinking about expanding the beach area. #2 In the last council meeting I saw, the Council/Mayor adjusted their accounting of "unallocated capital funds (CIP)" from $32M to $13M. Aparently, they "forgot" to itemize out various reserve funds. #3. Parks Director Larsens writes that that part of the levy increase will go towards cleaning up the riparian open space along the Sammamish river, Bear Creek, and hopefully Hartman wetlands. Enjoyed reading your county parks comments. Bob Yoder
Wednesday August 1, 2007

06/07 - Pristine Perrigo Springs Dedication

The small willow on the right commemorates Perrigo Springs, Redmond's first water source used by Indians and early Redmond pioneers.

The Historical marker and willow were dedicated by the Snoqualmie Falls Daughters of the American Colonists in 2004.

The above picture depicts the Perrigo Springs memorial as of last week. A few months ago, rock and debris was dumped on the the historical marker, tree and springs by a Public Works contractor. This was probably an unintentional consequence from nearby construction on a water tower. After several calls to the city the Public Works Dept. says they are looking for the vendor responsible for the damage.

UPDATE 1)They found the contractor and according to the Director of Public Works Bill Campbell, the rock pile and debris will be removed in 2-4 weeks,

6/26. UPDATE 2) the rock pile was raked into the surrounding ground and heavy, rusty pipe couplings were dumped next to the willow!
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The Springs can be found by walking from NE 100th St. terminus (on Education Hill) on the Perrigo Trail towards Avondale. It's at the base of CAMWEST DEVELOPMENT, INC. steep-slope sewer line.

So far, the Springs remain pristine, though citizens are monitoring the wetlands and creek water feeding the spring owing to Perrigo Heights construction impacts.

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Submitted by:  Nao Hardy, Founder of the "Redmond Historical Society" 6/07

"The little Perrigo Springs was purchased by the Redmond Water Department in 1914 and was the first water supply for the newly incorporated town of Redmond. A dam was originally constructed to impound the water for storage, with the transmission main a 4” to 8” wood stave pipe. This site was Redmond’s only water supply until 1927 and served as a major source of supply until 1962. Currently the spring is still there, trickling through a small, forested valley, past the city’s Perrigo Springs Reservoir and makes its way to Bear Creek. There is a wide trail near the spring that goes up Education Hill. Hikers and school kids and the curious use this trail. A mile to the east the large Perrigo Community Park is being developed."

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Letter to Tom Fix, City of Redmond, re: Dedication, 5/29/04

Went exploring this weekend, and we now have a rock from Perrigo Springs in our archives. Hope I'm forgiven for this because I did take a river rock, not one brought in from off-site. I followed the creek back to where it was oozing from ground. To judge by rock-lined stream bed, it must've been fairly good sized waterway once. Got some great pictures. Away from the roadway, it's another world. 

Pedestal signage on south bank would probably work well. Or bronze plaque mounted on large stone. Should DAC honor it, parks could spiff up immediate area slightly with bench and garage can! There wasn't much trash, but seeing even a few items in the little waterway was distressing. It does give me pause about publicity for the site, although I saw a surprising number of other people on the trail.

I wonder how a cross-section of old wooden water pipe could also be displayed with interpretive signage. Maybe this is best done on a wall in the old schoolhouse.

Arlyn Vallene whose farm was just below springs, told me how her family worried that building the dam would mean they'd have fish in their drinking water.

 --Nao Hardy, submitted 6/07
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I include this for Arlyn Vallene's anecdote re fish. think I told you that the "road" paralleling springs was called Frog Farm Road. there was even a sign on post with that name. all I really have is the two othere's I sent you tonight. if u wanta get some info from Arlyn, her contact info is below. she volunteers in our office every Thursday - faithfully. I recall her saying someone[s] on the hill above her came to Arlyn's farmhouse to bath as they didn't have running water on the hill until early 1950s when they were annexed.

--Nao Hardy, 6/07

6/17/07 Councilmember Marchione responds to Perrigo Heights development

From: John Marchione
To: Bob Yoder ; Jim Robinson
Cc: MayorCouncil
Sent: Monday, June 11, 2007 3:50 PM
Subject: RE: Perrigo Heights has been cleared

Dear Mr. Yoder, I am responding as Ombudsman (Council spokesman) for the month of June. As you know, Perrigo Heights has been an emotionally charged issue for a few years. Many neighbors requested the City purchase all of the land and preserve it as a park. The City did purchase a portion of the land to buffer the trail that runs up 99th street. This reduced the plat from about 36 homes to about 24. The Parks Board and the City Council have been aware of your request for the City to purchase the land. In general, the land was considered very expensive and Education Hill is served by more parks than any other neighborhood in Redmond. Forbidding development was not an option. A property owners retains his rights to build with in the community standards. This issue has been discussed with community input in previous years.

Sincerely,
John Marchione

OMBUDSMAN for Redmond City Council

7/17/07, CAMWEST mowed down all buildable Perrigo forest land

This OPINION was written in obvious anger from the acute episode of urban forest removal. Though the Camwest landowner has constitutional rights to do develop their land as seen fit the whole community agonized over the process. Many comments were submitted to my old Yahoo blog but not recorded. I was intensely invested in the process, starting with the serious lack of Public Notice the public was given. With regret, my bitterness shows. 01/2008

CAMWEST DEVELOPMENT, INC. of Kirkland, WA. mowed down about 1/3 of the Perrigo Heights woodlands Friday afternoon. Most of it the rest of it was removed by Saturday. CAMWEST has contracted with International Construction, Inc. and other contractors to do the "dirty work" for them. They don't want their "good name" associated with this project.  Already, a few citizens are leaving flowers and photos along the trail.

What I immediately sensed in the woods at 5:30pm was unusual brightness. It is now most apparent, the trail, riparian creek and Hartman wetlands receive southern exposure. Without shade from the canopy the wetlands will dry -- faster than naturally. Bring your sunhat and sunglasses. The atmosphere is totally different now on the creek, wetland trail. You will also hear birds seeking refuge in the riparian wetlands.

05/2007 - Active landslide on Perrigo Heights

2007 was the year I started my blog

"Landslides Threaten Big Trees, Sewer Alignment at Perrigo Heights" - by Susan Wilkins, Redmond, WA.

Preface: The initial geotechnical engineering report on Perrigo Heights was done in 1997. It's possible that the slope along the access road where the slides are now occurring was much more stable back then. At that time, the report stated that the whole property was stable. That was 10 years ago. Since then, time, gravity and severe weather have destabilized the north side of the property and it is sliding and unstable. This article and photograph are simply pointing this out.

A series of landslides along the access road on the south side of Perrigo Creek has toppled a number of trees and has left a majestic big-leaf maple precariously leaning with its roots exposed on the steep hillside. The tree sits on what is called a bench slide, a whole piece of the hill that is moving down-slope as a unit. It’s an historic slide that has been occurring slowly for years. It probably started years ago when the City of Redmond cut into the hillside when it built the access road that runs along the south side of the creek. The effects of gravity and the heavy rains this past year has caused the soil under the roots to break up and collapse. The landslide begins at the top of the slope where caving with the classic “scooped out” appearance can be seen on the relatively horizontal section of the hill where the proposed sewer line for the planned Camwest Perrigo Heights Development will run. In some places, the sewer line boundary will be within 15 feet of the top of the collapse.

4/11/07, Avondale Crest bio-swale issue

Attached, is a good photo of the city "bio-swale" on Avondale & NE 104th St. You are looking to the north from 104th. The Avondale Crest project is on the west-side. This swale is serpentine (not straight) to slow the water flow enough to allow filtration into the soil before draining into Bear Creek. It is a very good example of a high functioning and (apparently) well maintained bio-swale.

This bio-swale serves as a water quality measure for storm water running off of various housing projects. It functions as a water filter for removing phosphates, nitrates, and heavy metals from stormwater. The swale also re-oxygenates the water. In the end, our drinking water is cleaner and salmon healthier.

A small, but important problem was discovered with the bioswale. The swale was intended to treat the Avondale Crest stormwater draining from two wet vaults on the north along Avondale. But, I couldn't find the northern inlet pipe to the swale servicing these vaults. A development engineer graciously escorted me into the swale to look for the inlet pipe. We could not find the inlet pipe after an hour of searching and digging.

The Development Department reviewed my request for proof of a pipe inlet for more than 2 months. With some back-up from our Code Enforcement Officer cmArthy@redmond.gov and the Department of Ecology, our Public Works department was able to find and dig out the inlet pipe. They showed me a picture for proof. Though the pipe appeared smaller than the construction plans and flow does not appear fully re-directed from the Avondale pipe, some treatment may occur.

Of note, the stormwater engineer told us bio-swale earth accumulates heavy metals over time and the soil needs to be removed. Also, during floods, the water flows over the ditches by-passing the serpintine channels. During floods, treatment is significantly limited.

A pattern seems to be emerging in newer, proposed projects to eliminate bio-swales from wet vault treatment altogether. I am researching this further. But so far, I could not find bio-swale water quality measures in the 42-lot Shaughnessy Plat or 24-lot Perrigo Heights plat. In fact, it appears the Perrigo Heights vault stormwater will drain directly into Perrigo Creek for oxygenation and filtering.

Water enters the Avondale Crest swale from housing uphill and west of the swale. It treats the stormwater from older neighborhoods to the west and potential future projects. It is also designed to treat stormwater entering from the north (Avondale pipe).

I learned about this swale while appealing the proposed 9-lot Avondale Crest plat housing project just uphill. Though, appealing can be rigorous and time consuming one may often find a mistake or unintended consequence in the development process that could improve project quality....just reward for one's effort.

2007 STORMWATER MANUEL AMMENDMENTS (SEE PAGE 19) FOR BIOSWALE REQUIREMENTS. http://www.redmond.gov/insidecityhall/publicworks/technotebk07/Chapter2.pdf

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

An index of my Redmond Reporter columns are below:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bob Yoder

425-802-2523

redmondblog@gmail.com

12/18/06, Will Resha and McCormick lead on CIP?

6/14/07 - FINAL UPDATE - SEE BOTTOM - YES Mr. Resha did lead. Thank you, John.
Updated on 1/9/07 - see bottom
Updated on 4/27/07 - bottom of blog
My intent is to address with specifics the cheap, symbolic, budget cuts several councilmembers have dreamt up to try to fill a $2.8M gap left from the failed levie lid lift vote. Can you believe city officials would go so low as to cut "Derby Days" and "Redmond Lights" for a quick fix? It' appears it's their way of 1) "getting back" at the electorate for the levy defeat, 2) "proving their seriousness" for fire and police deficiencies, 3) distracting the public from scores of millions of dollars of idle long term unallocated cash reserves 4) last minute budget 'planning' and 5) dealing with their guilt of over-spending on City Hall.
The new City Hall will ultimately cost us $70M over 30 years. How could these officials (with the exception of Ms. Allen and Mr. Robinson) be so remiss in their planning to now call for $300,000 in cultural program cuts to fill their gap? It doesn't have to be this way.Mayor, Councilmembers Jim Robinson and Kim Allen say cuts aren't required this year or next if we re-work our long term capital allocations. Cole, Vasche, Resha, Marcione and McCormick think otherwise. Resha is re-working the CIP (Capital Improvemnent Plan) for a new proposal in January. Will Mr. Resha reassess and bring new perspective to the table? Will Council President McCormick adjust and lead?
Stay tuned.
1/15/07 update: In last week's review of the CIP, John led the discussion. With $32M in unallocated capital funds (that can be used for non-capital operations) John suggested the Admininstration (mayor) allocate unused 5% transfers to areas of more immediate needs, like parks. The Mayor side-stepped and the rest of council was mute. The failure of the city to negotiate for the Perrigo Heights forest was still too fresh for them. Thanks for trying, John and thanks for your public service. We will miss you on council.
1/9/07 update: In the Council Study Session tonight, Mr. Resha boldly demonstrated open-mindedness, flexibility and resolve to allow the council-at-large time to thoroughly study C.I.P. options. He formed a sub-committee with Ms. Allen and Mr. Marchione to study and and review C.I.P (capital budget) options. Stay tuned.
4/27/update: BIG BREAKTHROUGH on how council is starting to think about and utilize our CIP - capital fund program. Council President Nancy McCormick demonstrated her power at this week's study session on their proposed August, 2007 levy lid lift. She is recommending tapping into the wealthy CIP to fund maintenance & operations (M&O) for parks... This act alone would lower the proposed parks levy assessement from 10 cents to 5 cents !! At $121,000/penny assessement the levy would be reduced by $605,000, if I have my numbers right. Thank you, Nancy! Mr. Resha changed his mind and agreed with Robinson, Allen (the leader), Vache, and Marchione.

9/6/2006, Citizen Guide to City of Redmond Government

The photo is of City of Redmond, WA council members of the year 2006: John (Pat) Vache, Kimberly Allen, John Marchione, Jim Robinson, John Resha, Nancy McCormick

(Pres.), Richard Cole.

My entry today is in memory of my Dad and his good works for his community. September 28 is the birthday of my father, Joseph D. Yoder, Jr., an appointed & elected 'city councilman', Public Works Committee, Village of Tequesta, Florida.

Council members get paid about $800/month. I'm guessing they may put in 25 hours of work a week, maybe more. The "council core" is McCormick, Cole, and Robinson. They have been members for over 20 years each. Nancy McCormick, past planning commissioner, from Montana, is President of council. Pat Vache is Vice President. Mr. Richard Cole is a past planning commissioner and was Council President prior to Ms. McCormick and lives in North Redmond.

Vice President Vache goes back to the days when the Planning Commission was first formed in Redmond. During Mayor Himes term he supported keeping the Redmond Golf Course. He was appointed by the Mayor in 2003 and elected in 2006. He works at a small business and lives off of NE 116th Street, a view corridor. He avidly supports the development community, as does Cole and McCormick.

Councilman Jim Robinson is slightly moderate. I've revised my opinion on his stance on growth. He is definitely pro-growth though did vote against the "steep-slope exception" which allows utilities on steep slopes. He was on the Sensitive Area Ordinance CAC years ago. At the Critical Area Ordinance Public Hearing he motioned to keep the wetland buffers to remain unchanged -- narrow. (No one seconded).

Jim works in a cubicle for Boeing in procurement as a financial analyst and is proud of his worldly travels. He lives in the View Point Neighborhood adjacent to Marymoor Park. Among Mr. Robinson's contributions to the city are close relationships with Mayor Ives and her staff....dedication and intellect. He appears sensitive to the "green" element but as Council Park's Chair he did not push to negotiate for Perrigo Heights acquisition.

I think Jim was first on council to acknowledge global warming. Jim voted against the financing scheme for the new City Hall. He labeled City Hall art "razor blades" and lost support of the Arts Commission Co-Chair.

Planning commissioners Charlie McCarthy and Martin Snodgrass, strong pro-growth planning commissioners, have endorsed Jim in his run for Mayor. Planning commissioners Parnell and Querry endorsed Jim; Parnell, McCarthy, and Snodgrass voted against the designation "Riparian Habitat of Local Importance". Mayor Ives recently endorsed Mr. Robinson, as well as Mr. John Couch, 30-year Parks Director. With the exception of Ms. Allen, it appears THE OLD GUARD is backing Jim in his race for Mayor.

Mr. Cole is a retired Boeing CPA and tends to be the council penny pincher. His values of pragmatism, frugality, and independent thought. Unfortunately, Cole's decision-making skills often compromise and his decisions can be abrupt. Mr. Cole is resourceful and considers himself a nerd on news. An autocrat by nature he can be unbending and single-minded during deliberations, especially with Rosemarie present. He is pro-growth.

With the Microsoft agreement to accommodate 12000 new workers to Redmond within the next ten years it is impossible for any candidate not to accept growth. 

Ms. Nancy McCormick is retired from the insurance business with strong connections to business, though she plays the neighborhood advocate well and does care. Years ago, Nancy was a planning commissioner. Her ego will occasionally rise up and overshadow planning and park commission advice.

MISC: Cole and Vache are on the Board of the Chamber of Commerce. Cole and McCormick both have strong survival instincts and attentiveness to the people. Cole and McCormick have been the target of divisive criticism from Mayor Rosemarie Ives. Robinson has a good sense of humor and wit and Marchione will make you chuckle occasionally. A good sense of humor goes a LONG way during boring government meetings, especially if you watch as many as I.

Messrs. Marchione, Resha, and Ms. Allen all live on Education Hill and are the junior councilmembers with Allen being elected in 2006.  

Ms. Allen was a highly respected planning commissioner by her peers and the mayor and was an attorney from Scottsdale a few years back. She is a moderate, a "compromiser" and more than any councilmember has fresh ideas about how and why to involve the public in decision-making. She has the ability to get to the root of an issue and get beyond 'ego'.

Mr. John Resha is a bright, young, complex council member enthusiastic about his role. He withdrew from the 2007 Election citing need for quality family time. He plans to continue public service. He promotes public engagement.

Mr. Resha's neighborhood was negatively impacted last year when a short plat with towering homes was constructed with only a 5 foot setback from the neighborhood backyards. Sadly, his neighborhood view corridor was destroyed along with backyard privacy. A For Sale sign is on his property (6/07). Though Mr. Resha dislikes regulation, It's too bad Mr. Resha's neighborhood didn't have the same opportunity as N. Redmond CAC to regulate the "look and feel" standards for their community. It's possible Mr. Resha carries some "baggage" to the dais on certain neighborhood issues, perhaps as a result of this neighborhood design flaw.

Mr. Resha is an "expert" on transportation issues and works for a "traffic association" (WSDOT?) - He was Parks Chair during the Perrigo Heights march and 3.5 acre acquisition. I think John adds a valuable perspective to the Council and works hard with creativity, smarts and compassion for Redmond and the neighborhoods. John announced June, 2007 he would not run for a second council term. John spearheaded a new land-use Public Notice policy measure to improve neighborhood awareness of land-use process.

Mr. John Marchione is an amiable, bright first-time councilman. He has been very active in Hartman Park Little League with his family. I think he was past President of the league. John has been CFO of the Meydenbauer Center for 10 years. He is influenced by the development community however chooses to proactively shape growth rather than "be shaped". John is a leader on city finance and budget issues and currently Council Chair of Finance. John is probably the most capable candidate for managing staff and keeping costs in line. Burnstead and the and Eastside Business Assoc. endorse him as well as the neighborhoods. He supports the intersection light at 104th & 166th but appears undecided about the re-channelization of 166th. Ms. Vache is his campaign manager with Cole & McCormick & Resha & Vache supporting him in his bid for Mayor. Council candidates Margeson, Conlin, and Carson endorse John. Marchione has strong regional presence.

Marchione is a Board Member of the Cascade Water Alliance -- an important muli-jurisdictional organization responsible for assuring our water supply in years to come. The mayors of Kirkland, Bellevue and Duvall endorse John. Mayor Ives does not. Like his mother, past-Mayor Doreen Marchione, John has strong "administrative" skill sets. I think his degree is in Public Administration. Of bureaucratic bent (job, education) Mr. Marchione is appearing more involved in contributing to outcomes of cultural initiatives. He appears to make decisions and "vision" by exploring the collective inputs of Redmond's diverse citizenry. John leads by consensus-building. He style is "management- decision-maker" rather than the "charismatic-delegation-style" of Mayor Ives.

Honorable Councilwoman Kim Allen kallen@redmond.gov is the cities newest council member. (6/07). She was supported by Rosemarie Ives during her Election a couple years back. Last time I checked, Ms. Allen was endorsing Mr. Robinson. Kimberly is a lawyer and she is smart. Kim moved up from Scottsdale, AZ about six years ago. She was a leader on the Planning Commission for a few years and was endorsed by all 6 commissioners in her run for council. (Mayor Ives appointed the commissioners and council approved). Ms. Allen is a strong advocate for any citizen that speaks up for the betterment of the city.

One of Allen's goals is to upgrade our city website. My Neighborhood blog probably wouldn't exist without her encouragement. She is a strong defender of Citizen Advisory Committees. She is upset with the "blanket" land-use zoning 12 years ago that led to the Perrigo Heights, Avondale Crest, and Tyler Creek project mistakes. Kim is a strong advocate for reworking city Public Notice policy to improve public participation in land-use project. I could easily go on about all the good Kim has brought to Redmond in only 2-years.

Ms. Holly Plackett has been one of Redmond's most dedicated public servants over recent years. She was a Redmond planning commissioner for 6 years and councilwoman for 4 years. She lost her council seat when running unsuccessfully against Mayor Ives in the Election prior to 2007. She wants to make staff support and information more accessible to council than Mayor Ives did. Holly wants to restore trust in the Administration. She wants an audit of the city books. She is pro-neighborhood wanting citizens involved before decisions are made. Holly has no desire to raise taxes on small businesses. She is probably the most "GREEN" . She has issues with Planned Residential Permits. However, with the Microsoft Agreement requiring accommodation of 12,000 new workers to Redmond, Holly will have to make significant personal concessions to growth, if elected mayor. Holly lives in the Grasslawn Neighborhood and works at a Redmond bank. Probably, her strongest asset is "citizen advocate" and persistence to serve.

The Planning Commissioners planningcommission@redmond.gov are some of the most informed, dedicated, tactful, and challenging (!) group of Redmond citizens I've attended many of their meetings in city hall. The don't get paid. I have great admiration for our Planning Commission. They are incredibly hard workers, good listeners, and can be quite entertaining when a delicate situation needs to be settled. Occasionally confusing and time-wasting "Code-speak" appears to be used to keep the viewing public confused and content "off the record". It is important to note all Commissioners and Boards are appointed by "a" mayor and approved by "a" Council so they are under their influence! They're kind of like judges. And, I would ere not to acknowledge the city staff support, Sarah Stiteler and Terry Marpert.

Other Commissions and Boards get less public exposure than the Planning Commission. If fact, sometimes it seems city staff get more public attention than the Mayor's appointed Arts and Parks commissioners. Arts Commission is contacted at rac@redmond.gov . Parks Board is reached at parkboard@redmond.gov. Public and council exposure has been on the upswing this year. Arts commissioners hold 3 meetings/year on RC-TV 21 and Parks commissioners presented the 2007 and levy proposal with great success.

Recently, I've seen Lori & Martin Snodgrass presenting to Council on several occasions. They are strongly aligned with Mayor Ives and her staff and endorse Robinson for Mayor. This intelligent and dedicated 'Snodgrass citizen-team' have given countless years of public service in representing Redmond citizens (and elected). It is my understanding, Lori has chaired the Parks & Recreation Board of Commissioners for years; and ran for Council office. I think Lori is retiring from the commission after 9 years of service. (6/07) And, it is my understanding, 'Marty' has been a planning commissioner for years and Chair of the commission for over 6 years. The 'Snodgrass dynasty' is one that will be remembered.

Planning commissioner Charlie McCarthy persuasively represents the development community interests and endorses Robinson for Mayor. He is 101% pro-growth. My comment: Growth means jobs and jobs are good, as long as it is proactively controlled and approved within reasonable design standards and with regard to citizen values, affordability, and quality of life. The Microsoft Agreement is a growth engine without a "governor". We are "out of control". Mega-houses consume land and resources for the few and must downsize to make the best use of developable land for all.  Higher density development of the downtown is under-utilized.

It wouldn't be fair not to acknowledge Mr. Richard Grubb, past city councilman, present city activist. He is an advocate for citizens needing help on protesting problem land-use projects and outspoken like Cole.  

STAFF: Speaking of "the top", the Acting Director of Public Works, Mr. Bill Campbell bcampbell@redmond.gov career responsibilities advanced on MARCH, 2007 when Mr. Rhodes retired. Mr. Campbell is co-anchoring with Mr. Rob Odle, Planning Director, the powerful Land Use Technical Committee that makes all the major land use decisions (other than appeals to council & the state supreme court). Mr. Odle is the "Code Administrator" giving him powerful latitude to interpret our Development Guide ordinances according to staff and the Mayor's needs. Mr. Odle is "The Administrator" of all proposed development project. Senior Staff, like Steve Fischer, would coin him the "queen bee" while Steve is just a "worker bee" carrying out the decisions of his superiors. Judd Black, development manager is "the point man" all most land-use hearings (appeal and public). He is "the defender" of the technical committee and of the developer. The Assistant Planner, Jim Roberts wears many hats but appears to be the "dealer" or negotiator between the city and the developers. He manages the Development Dept. Jim has an expressive, likable outgoing personality, but there is little question his job description is to "keep the growth engine revved".  Mr. Roberts interviewed me 3 times about Public Notice inadequacies but took little change-action.

Public Works is the largest city department per budget dollars, # of employees. Mr. Rob Odle, Planning and Development Director, lives in Redmond in the N. Avondale area. Mr. Odle has strong regional presence and is responsive to citizen comment. He was promoted from Policy Planning Manager in 2005. rodle@redmond.gov [under construction for thee 2007 election]

By Bob Yoder
updated, 2/8/2011

8/23/2006 - First Blog - Woodland March

THE PHOTO OF THE SIGN POSTED HERE TO ANNOUNCE THE NOVEMBER MARCH IS REMOVED FROM THIS POST.  IT CAN BE FOUND ON THE "REDMOND NEIGHBORHOOD BLOG" FACEBOOK PAGE.

8/23/06 CITIZEN ACTIVISM KIOSK for posting news and events:  

Hello friends,
I'm in Chelan for a few days and love this lake....though I miss the "Redmond green."  The photo [above] is our sign announcing the Perrigo Heights citizen march in November with the mayor and councilmembers [minus Mr. John P. (Pat) Vache]. The march in the woods was to demonstrate our love and hopes to preserve the woodlands and riparian habitat along Perrigo Creek.

We were partly successful. Partly.... 3.5 acres of the riparian remnant are preserved...another 8 acres of the mixed hardwood-conifer forest have yet to be saved by a Parks bond or citizenry or corporate donations. Too bad, especially for future generations. We can do better. You'll find posted some Perrigo forest photos taken on a foggy day in 2004. Good evening,
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UPDATE, 2/17/2007: The Redmond Reporter is under new management and now is a true paper, rather than a city voice. I was fortunate to be offered a column called "Citizen Watch" by the new Editor, John Huether. Bill Christianson has since taken over the reigns as Editor. We value our Redmond Reporter. Together we make Redmond better.  

UPDATE, 7/16/2022:   Julia Brand brought the proposed Perrigo Heights development to Mayor Rosemarie Ives attention.  Rosemarie initiated the "march" by inviting developer, Eric Campbell to join Councilmembers Robinson, McCormick, Cole (and others) in assessing the "40% Steep Slope" sewer line location for safety. Susan Wilkins, a geologist, had her whole family in the woods along the trail measuring to assess geologic stability.  I set up an table-top exhibit to show walkers Indian artifacts and educate the ecology of Perrigo woodlands and wetlands.  Mayor Ives ultimately "encouraged" Campbell to buffer the development away from the "Ashford Trail" and Hartman wetlands.  In the process trees were saved.  B.Y.