OPINION: Progress at Council Meetings!

OPINION: Progress is one word that summarizes last night's Council meeting led by Mr. Mayor Marchione and Council President McCormick.

What stands out the most? Mr. Mayor is conducting more efficient, shorter council meetings. It also appears he is not pitting one councilmember against another. Mr. Mayor appears to be transferring the time saved at council meetings to engaging citizens and staff in five departmental-focused Council Committees (members & meeting times are at this link).

Each council committee is chaired by a councilmember. The most active right now are: Hank Margeson chairing "Planning and Public Works" and Hank Myers chairing "Parks and Human Services."

• Councilman Margeson took a long day touring the new Cascade Water Alliance infrastructure of Lake Tapps. He made note of the aging dam and concurred with it's need for repair or replacement. Mr. Margeson was pleased with the Alliance.
• Councilman Myers held an informal focus group with a few Grasslawn Park citizens concerned about on-site public works construction, lighting, and noise. The meeting was held at HopeLink and I think citizens attending off-site felt less intimidated than meeting at City Hall. Mr. Myers also conducted a 20 minute "poverty simulation". Councilmen Vache and Myers learned so much from it that they want to participate in a 3 hour meeting at a later date. I think the public might be invited if they have it.
• Council President McCormick is Chair of all Council Committees. Nancy McCormick is to be thanked for including citizens in the process as never has been done before. Of note, Nancy said council decided at their "Retreat" to link the Minutes of each meeting into the weekly "online agenda" (posted under Timely Topics of this site).
• Hank Myers' next Parks and Human Services meeting will be held at the "Parks Maintenance and Operations" building. He didn't explain the agenda. There is plenty of space for citizen participation. Do you think you'll go?

Planning and Development Executive Rob Odle was looking sharp in a new suit and was entertaining and happy. What happened to that mohair jacket?! Did Mr. Mayor award Mr. Odle with a promotion or raise? Or is he just happier in his job? I've noticed a spark from some other department Directors, too.

Many staff are citizens of Redmond or Greater Redmond. Mr. Odle, Mr. Spangler, Mr. Hitch, Ms. Stiteler, Mr. Sullivan, Mr. Cairns are just a few I know. I've seen more public participation from them lately and...staff of Greater Redmond. It's good to see engagement & inclusivity of ALL our citizens in city government. Whatever Marchione is doing, it appears it's paying off.

What do you think about the city's progress? Are we making progress? Do you think citizens and our neighbors will go to Council Committee meetings if they are held off-site?

Growth management issues were also discussed in length. But, I'll save that for a future report!

Bob Yoder, co-author, Education Hill neighborhood

City Council Interviews Candidates For Vacated Seat

(l-r) Hank Margeson, Angela Birney, Brian Shutz, John Stilin, David Carson. Hank Myers is behind Carson.
Stephanie Rodriguez is in blue.

UPDATED:  Council worked from 1:00 - 5:30 on Saturday screening 13 candidates applying for Council Position #4, vacated by Ms. Kim Allen. Of the few screening interviews I watched, a couple of my favorites were A.J. Taylor and Amy Mayes.  .

A.J. is a lawyer at Microsoft. (No lawyers now on Council)  He's very smart and with big heart.  He demonstrated strong leadership skills.  A.J.'s lived in Redmond for 12 years -- two children -- and didn't have to study the city website to know what was going on.  A.J." is civicly minded, a proud member of the Redmond Rotary.  I chatted with him before his interview; he is very personable.

I was very impressed with Amy Mayes, a City Arts Commissioner.  Her passion is creating affordable housing choices for those in the lower-paying service industries. Amy was well prepared, succinct, with a good grasp of City workings.  When asked, she said her strengths were: "loyalty, strength and calm."

I hope A.J. and Amy will be finalists for the public Interviews on March 7th.

During one of the interviews CM Hank Myers mentioned their responsibility to the Open Public Meetings Act.  He said council members sometimes meet for dinner before their business meetings for team-building purposes.  They also use a "3-touch" process for consensus building, wherein all items of importance are discussed at committee meetings, study sessions, and business meetings. CM David Carson said pretty much everything "gets ironed out" by then.  6-1 and 5-2 votes are indeed very rare. The City Clerk would probably have to dust an inch off her records to find a 4-3.

According to President Hank Margeson, it's been nine years since Council's had to make a Councilmember appointment....Hank Myers.  Mr. Margeson did a superlative job putting the process in place and building public trust.

-- Bob Yoder, opinion, photo, 2/16

I didn't watch Paige Norman interview or anyone else I know.  Paige is the founder of "Education Hill Neighborhood Association" and writes a blog "PaigesPrattle."   She posted a thorough report of the meeting, including names of those interviewed and a schedule for future meetings.

LETTER: Tree Sock Art installation intended to celebrate Redmond's Centennial. Exhibit expected to end June 3, 2012.



Tree Wrap Art looks attractive under night lights and during the dark, dreary days of the Northwest. We don't get  many colorful autumn leaves downtown.  Myers says the art is squirrel friendly but the ability of birds to forage for insects under the yarn isn't addressed.  Will they "unbutton" the wraps in the summer when we don't need "Artificial Light?"  The abundance of colors contrasts with bland Redmond Way strip malls  making the rest of the city look worse.  B.Y.

from the desk of Councilman Hank Myers....
LETTER:  You ask the most interesting questions, and I have completed some research with the help of Parks staff and assistance from a former Department of Natural Resources official.

On the issue of impact to the trees, an extensive answer is below.  These wraps have been around for years, with no apparent damage.  The only observed change was suppression of moss on the tree bark, which I am not sure is a negative. You also raised concerns about the impact on squirrels.  While it is true that the western gray squirrel is protected, it is because its habitat was overrun by the eastern gray squirrel, which is what populates Anderson Park.  The eastern gray squirrel is not protected.   Read More >>

Mental Health Walk A Smashing Success - Candidates Steve Fields and Hank Myers Join In

The NAMI 5K Mental Health Walk to "bust stigma" was a smashing success!  Great people, great cause!  We were supporting EvergreenHealth's plans to open an outpatient mental health care clinic. Three councilmembers Hank Myers, Steve Fields, Tanika Padeya, and my wife are holding the banner. 

- Bob Yoder

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.

Redmond City Council approves budget - raises property and utility taxes

The City Council approved the Administration's 2013-2014 budget 5-2 with Hank Myers and David Carson voting 'no" to the ordinance.    Property taxes will go up $6/year and water/stormwater will increase 2%/4% per the biennium.   Under a separate ordinance the council raised nonunion salaries 1.5%/year. 

Councilmember Hank Myers called out the 1% tax increase as "entirely unnecessary since we have a $10 million ending balance and the 1% amounts to less than 5% of our ending balance."   He referenced three different contingency reserves, and said no services would have to be cut if the tax stays the same.  He said the price of Redmond government was higher compared to Issaquah, Kirkland, and Woodinville.  Like all councilmembers, he lauded the Administration on a job well done in preparing a transparent budget and thanked the Mayor and Council Finance Chair John Stilin for their leadership.

Councilmember David Carson said he could have said Yes to the entire package if more than 40% of the capital fund ending balance could have gone to capital improvements.  He was most concerned about the 1% property tax saying, "If we had applied a small portion of the $10 million surplus it could have kept the City of Redmond residents from paying the tax increase."  He supported the Utility Tax increase saying it was specific to infrastructure. 

Council Chair of Finance John Stilin considered Redmond the envy of the region with it's well run finances and city administration.  He emphasized "being responsible in asking for a little bit more."  He said, "it would be nice if there were other ways to tax and spread this out but the 1% tax is our one tool we have."   "I look forward to digging deeper in the performance review process and having better performance measures such that in the off years of he budget we actually do a performance review of our budget." 

Councilmembers Tom Flynn and Hank Margeson were worried about a revenue/expenditure gap looming 4-6 years out.  Margeson said, "the 1% tax increase won't track that down but by being smart about what we spend going forward we will bridge the gap."  Flynn was glad to see some cuts and right-sizing to the budget and thought the 1% a small part in keeping up with inflation. 

Councilmember Kim Allen voted for the 1% this year because the economy is improving.  "It's good to see the cranes downtown", she said "and the tax increase is only $6/year."   She and Hank Margeson were glad to see the 166th Avenue safety reconfiguration in the books for this biennium.  Council President Pat Vache' agreed with Ms. Allen on the importance of the steady revenue flows in the maintaining the city's AAA rating.  Vache' also mentioned the gap projected in future years.

Mayor John Marchione thanked Council and his staff and advised Myers "The price of government index" is not a valid comparison tool to other cities.  The mayor was proud to claim the price of Redmond government (government expenses/% of income) is the lowest it's been in 12 years.  It went from 6% to 4.9% today.  He concluded the AAA rating saves the city millions of dollars.

By Bob Yoder

Finance Chair Hank Margeson Explains Why "Budgeting by Priorities" Works

I have a high very high opinion of Hank Margeson:  Councilmember Hank Margeson is presently Chair of the Public Administration and Finance Committee, with councilmembers Hank Myers and Kim Allen.  Hank presided in over 10 Budget meetings, and three Hearings.  In 2008 - 2009  Margeson Chaired the challenging Planning & Public Works Committee.  In addition, Hank holds the prestigious position as the city's Suburban Cities representative.  Hank lives with his wife Patti and their family on Education Hill, works full time in the insurance business, "lives to umpire!", and occasionally joins the Mayor and Parks & Trails Chair in a ball game.   Hank's letter is written in response to an email about the budget's cost-of-living adjustment.  Bob Yoder 

Finance Chair Hank Margeson

Dear Bob,

Thank you for your continued interest in the Budgeting for Outcomes (or Budgeting by Priorities) process. During the process of reviewing each of the citizen's priorities it was clear that in spite of challenging economic times, the City of Redmond's process was working. First, the budget offers were well prepared with an improved level of detail that enabled the results teams to rank offers. Second, the leadership team made some very difficult decisions while staying focused on the outcomes provided by each offer. The key to the BP process is to look for an outcome and then select or scale an offer to achieve the desired outcome.

Every budget offer was reviewed for scalability and where appropriate the offer was reduced to ensure a balanced budget was presented to Council. I can't say enough about how difficult this was as each department had positions eliminated. Read more....
READ MORE

Updated: It's Estimated The Senior Center Will Re-Open In 2.5 - 3 Years

The estimated cost to demolish and rebuild is about $21 million; estimated cost to renovate is $20 million. Owing to the Critical Areas Ordinance, the new building will move 20-30 feet away from the river with possible impacts to the green house.

The Parks and Recreation Director Carrie Hite and Project engineer Eric Dawson updated Council on the status of the Senior Center during their December 3rd Regular meeting. In August, two stucco panels near the loading dock fell off (fortunately no one was hurt) and serious dry rot was found throughout the plywood of the exterior walls. Though the roof is about 30 years old it was in satisfactory condition. Owing to dangerous conditions, the Center was immediately closed on September 9th. Ms. Hite said many of the Center's activities were re-located to 1) City Hall (Bytes Cafe and the conference rooms, 2) Marymoor Village, Old Redmond School House, 3) Grasslawn Arts Center and other places. 

In response to Councilmember Jeralee Andrson's timeline question, Hite said it's estimated the Center will re-open in 2.5 years if renovated and 3 years if demolished and rebuilt. For sustainability Jaralee recommended the waste be recycled.

Ms. Hite suggested an opportunity to expand to 4-stories was possible -- for work force housing, affordable housing, an urban school, etc.  Councilmember Hank Myers said he was by no means in  favor of an expansion. He insisted on rebuilding ASAP; the audience clapped. It seemed a salute, with parting thanks.  (Hank lost to Varisha Khan in the general election by 66 votes; this was one of his last council meetings.)  Hank asked the City to do preventative maintenance on all their buildings on a regular basis, just as people do with their cars.

Councilmember Steve Fields agreed with Hank.  He noted black mold was regularly bleached out of the green house.and had anecdotal evidence someone pushed their hand through one of the walls. He recommended anecdotal feedback be a part of the preventative maintenance program. Councilmember Tanika Padhye asked if the public engagement process would be thorough and fast-tracked.  Ms. Hite suggested a few Public meetings would probably be sufficient.

Council President and Mayor-elect Angela Birney was "encouraged that to rebuild or to fix is about the same, so at least that doesn't seem to be a big task to go one way or the other."  She said over the years she learned a lot about what improvements Seniors wanted in their Center. Angela looked forward to establishing partnerships.  She was "a little sad about the 2-3 years."

Vice President Councilmember David Carson said it was "a chance for amenities to be added."  He was not for renovating or remodeling.   

Hank Myers calculated the city already had the funds to re-build saying $15 million was authorized for Senior Center improvements in November of 2018.  (Unfortunately, the improvements weren't done until it was too late.)  Hank also noted the city was sitting on $6 million of one-time money from the 2017 -2018 budget. Thus, with the $15 million, there's money in the budget to re-build. Hank received another clap.  He was one of my favorite Councilmembers.

Reported by Bob Yoder
12/4/2019

OPINION: An appalling experience at City Hall

I'm not sure if you know, or even care, but on the day after the Mayor's Annual "State of the City" address Councilmember John Stilin withdrew from the election by not filing for Position 6. Mr. Stilin had recently been promoted to Vice President of city council and everyone in the political community was shocked. Soon after, a brief Redmond Reporter article was published indicating Mr. Stilin felt it was time to move on and open the field to the rising stars in our community.

I've known Mr. Stilin for about ten years, beginning when he was an arts commissioner.  I've met John at community  meetings, watched him in scores of council meetings, and attended his publicized coffee chat sessions. I know him well, more than most citizens.  He's dedicated to the city and community and contributes significantly to how we "live, work, play and invest." in Redmond.  John's smart, ambitious, and politically savvy. He tends to have a "controlling" social style, and values power.

Now, finally my motivation for writing this opinion:

On August 8th I witnessed an appalling event in council chambers.  I  was attending a public Study Session in City Hall to hear council talk about their experiences at "National Night Out." Right after the meeting, Hank Myers, a friendly, tenured councilmember walked up to chat with me. Mr. Stilin closely followed, interrupted our conversation and without restraint, assailed, belittled and humiliated Mr. Myers right in front of me. As a member of the viewing public, I was shocked.. His attack had something to do with an opinion piece I'd written where Hank was footnoted as "inspirational." The incident opened Mr. Stilin's authentic political soul. I'm relieved he's not running for office.

Bob Yoder
, 
Hank Myers, Chair of the Planning and Public Works Committee. soon followed-up with this clarifying piece

Redmond and Kirkland councilmembers volunteer to count unsheltered homeless

(l-r) John Stilin (red), David Carson, Penny Sweet, Hank Margeson, Pat Vache' (red), Hank Myers, Toby Nixon (back)

"Last night was the "One Night Count" where the community goes out and counts how many homeless people we have in our cities so that we can raise awareness of the problem of homelessness. Hank and others went out in the middle of the night to do this, so proud of all of them."
   -- Patti Margeson

These Redmond/Kirkland volunteers are all city councilmembers.  Penny Sweet and Toby Nixon are from Kirkland.  John Stilin, David Carson, Hank Margeson (V.P.)  Pat Vache' (Pres.), Hank Myers are from Redmond.  Thank you for your service to our community councilmembers!!

2012 Results for the Eastside:  138 unsheltered homeless.  Of those, 52 were found inside cars and trucks.

4/7/07, Election Notes and Resources

LAST DAY TO FILE FOR OFFICE: June 2.
PRIMARY - August 21, 2007; ELECTION DAY - November 6, 2007
Public Disclosure Commission - disclosure of campaign contributions and expenditures --
FOLLOW THE MONEY: http://www.pdc.wa.gov/Public/Campaign/Default.aspx
REGISTER TO VOTE - King County Elections - http://www.metrokc.gov/elections/register.htm
ABSENTEE BALLOT INFORMATION : http://www.metrokc.gov/elections/absentee.htm
absentee ballots are mailed August 1, 2007 for the Primary election.
MAYOR'S COMPENSATION : $121,900 (includes car allowance, travel & tuition budget)
COUNCILMEMBER'S COMPENSATION: $11,085 / year, each member
-----------------------------------------------------------
Election commentary by Korby Parnell, Redmond Planning Commissioner http://blogs.msdn.com/korbyp/archive/2007/03/07/passing-the-community-torch-in-search-of-a-new-chief-executive-in-redmond.aspx#comments
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MAYORAL CANDIDATE WEBSITES AND CONTACT INFO:
Jim Robinson: http://www.robinsonformayor.com/ - VIDEO !!
jamesprobinson@earthlink.net
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
John Marchione: Website: http://www.johnmarchione.com/ VIDEO!!
Email: john4mayor@comcast.net
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Holly Plackett: http://www.hollyplackett.com/ VIDEO !
425-881-7422
*** The Redmond Neighborhood Blog does not endorse mayoral or council candidates.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
COUNCIL CANDIDATE WEBSITES AND CONTACT INFO:
Position 5:
Michallea Schuelke: PTSA. President Eastside Lacrosse Club.
Campaign Website: http://www.redmondcouncil.com/ Video!
Email: schuelke4council@yahoo.com
vs.
Richard Cole: 16-year council incumbant, Position 5.
Email: rgcole@gte.com
Website: http://www.coleforcouncil.org/
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
J. Marchione's seat, Position 1
Hank Myers running for Marchione's seat vs. Brian Conlin - announced in the Reporter on 9/9/07. 31-year Redmond resident. Lives in Overlake neighborhood. Experience in transportation. No web site, at this time. (Marchione's seat)
hank@hankmyersforredmond.org 425-408-3937
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
J. Resha's seat, Position 3
"Hank" Margeson announced in today's 5/12 Reporter he would be running for John Resha's council seat. Mr. Resha has yet to make an announcement if he would run. Hank has put in many years of service as a Park Board Member and is currently Vice-Chair. Recently, he took a leadership role on the levy proposal to Council (tag "parks-commission" for the story). Hank is a 14 year resident of Redmond and lives on Education Hill where he was an active Education Hill CAC member. He wants to build a spirit of teamwork with the council and mayor and values being in close touch with his neighbors. Hank has been active in youth sports as a coach and umpire.
Friends-of-Hank@hotmail.com 425-885-1684
vs.
Brian Conlin http://www.voteconlin.com/ brian@voteconlin.com 425-286-7992 (Marchione's seat) http://www.conlinreport.com/
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
James P. Robinson's seat, Position 7
Dave Carson - http://youngrepublicans.meetup.com/86/members/435937/
dmcarson@hotmail.com 206-484-8480 http://www.carson4council.com/ (work ???)
vs.
Brian Seitz - Web: http://electbrianseitz.com/ NEW VIDEO!
New Blog: http://electbrianseitz.blogspot.com/ 425-885-1332
Email: brianseitz@brianseitz.com

UPDATED: Dr. David Morton, Redmond's Most Prolific Speaker

Dr. Morton posing at the Youth Climate Strike

In my 13 years of observing and reporting on city government I can say Dr. David Morton, a citizen of greater Redmond with a PhD in Chemistry, is unarguably the most prolific public speaker in the City of Redmond, and perhaps it's history.  For six years David's been speaking during  "Items From The Audience" at the beginning of  each and every  Regular meeting held by Council. Since David's first speech on Sept. 17, 2013 he's delivered 124 prepared  four minute talks.  Besides public speaking, David participates in Redmond's "Green Redmond" program, planting trees and restoring urban forests.

David is a gentle spirit, obsessed with anything having to do with pollution in our city. An activist by nature,  environmental sustainability and pollution in Redmond are his top priorities. He works exceptionally hard with extreme persistence to raise awareness. Very rarely the city takes action but he's had a couple wins along the way.

Dr. Morton's first and longest sequence of speeches (rants) was about the pollution and smell emanating from Watson Asphalt.  He doesn't live far from Watson and was concerned and fearful that plumes of carcinogenic air were blowing into the neighborhoods.  Citing scientific and case studies, he stubbornly recommended  newer scrubbing technology but Council didn't act, though Watson quietly stopped using "cutback asphalt." So David picked another topic to harp on -- leaf blower air and noise pollution.

Councilmember Hank Myers comments on the Master Builders and downtown development

by Hank Myers

I am pleased that my letter to the Editor of the Redmond Reporter has prompted you and others to speak out during this election.  Unfortunately, some have concluded that inspiring discourse also meant inspiring your opinion on the Master Builders Association.  My ten years of experience with the Master Builders has been consistently positive and helpful.  They have members from all phases of the building trades including small businesses such as electricians, plumbers, remodelers and painters.  In addition to providing technical expertise on construction matters, they run an excellent free campaign seminar.  All candidates who filed for Council positions were invited.  When it comes to the problems and dislocations caused by the recent increased development, the culprit is our cumbersome and costly process.  Projects take years from inception to completion, adding costs and jamming projects together.  The State’s Growth Management Act dictates that Redmond provide housing for significantly more residents by 2030.  Under the Act, it is not a matter of whether there will be development, but how effectively it is administered.  That is where Redmond has fallen down.

Editor's note: Hank wrote an excellent letter in the Redmond Reporter describing council  candidates as "City Hall" and "outsiders" which inspired me. My inspiration had nothing to do with the Master Builders.   

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

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

Bob & Pam Yoder

Dear Friends,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,

Bob Yoder
Education Hill Neighborhood
Redmond resident of 30 years

UPDATED: Musings on the Elected's and Public's participation in affairs of our city

I  try to watch every Council meeting, will occasionally critique the Elected on my blog and send links of these posts by email to mayorcouncil@redmond.gov so they know "I'm not talking behind their back"; but most of all they can hopefully learn from what I've observed. Councilman Hank Myers labels me a gadfly because I have been doing this for years.  He values the gadfly role and on several occasions has thanked me.  Hank recently told me he reads my blog; I have a good relationship with him. Recently Councilmember Kim Allen thanked me on Facebook for being "a facilitator over all the years."  I value my relationship with Hank and Kim.  .

Other than Councilmembers John Stilin, David Carson, Hank and Kim I can't recall any other Councilmember giving me feedback on this blog. Though, once a long time ago President Hank Margeson told me he read it. The Mayor has appeared to ignore me over the many years I've been reporting.  He finally surfaced this week by email. Other than asking me for minor edits on a post, his email was less than encouraging to put it mildly. I think my main problem in communicating with John Marchione is he hates public scrutiny and only wants to hear constructive criticism behind closed doors. It's certainly not because I haven't emailed him on various issues over the years. My impression is the Mayor is too busy with regional and downtown matters to listen to the residential community. Some of his supporters say John always responds to emails. This has not been the case for me.      .

Our elected persistently ask (if not beg) the public for participation and feedback on the affairs of the city.  Marchione said in the mayoral debate he tries to reach out to the community with televised Council and Commissioner meetings, the Focus magazine, the city website and visits to the elementary schools.  John should be giving even more attention to the neighborhoods, especially with "the town turned upside down" from rapid development. He is weak on Public Outreach and rarely listens to the residents and for that sole reason I'm voting for Fields. Otherwise, I think he's a good city administrator and leader.   I do appreciate the one or two times he held a coffee at the Senior Center long ago,

John Stilin holds a coffee at Soulfood every Tuesday at 3 pm. Mr. Stilin,, Ms. Allen are members of the "Education Hill of Redmond" Facebook Group and at times participate.  Mr Myers is working with Ms. Allen to hold Q&A "listening sessions" in the neighborhoods. Councilmember Tom Flynn recently wrote an excellent piece in the Redmond Reporter. Of course our elected are getting copious feedback from the community with this election. For this, we should thank Steve Fields.

As stated, I've chosen to participate in the affairs of the city with my blog.  Like 99% of my neighbors I find it intimidating and usually  non productive to go to City Hall Council Meetings and participate.  Most of my neighbors don't even know the meetings exist or are televised. If they did watch a Council meeting many would probably find them scripted, stale, boring and above the level of the people.

However, this week's Council meeting was a breakthrough moment especially for the Mayor--it appears he's listened.  I've never heard him participate so much at a business meeting -- nor the Council so active and skillful in inviting him into the conversation. The Ombudsman Report was lively and broad. The dais was humming.  I only pray this will not be a one-time event.  You can see for yourselves by tuning into Comcast RCTV channel 21 on Tuesday nights at 7:30 pm. Or watch the meeting online here.

Opinion by Bob Yoder

Councilman Hank Myers asks for your support during his Polar Plunge fundraiser

Each year the Redmond Police Department sponsors the Polar Plunge for Special Olympics of Washington.  It is this weekend, and a lot of hearty souls will voluntarily go into the snow-fed waters of Lake Sammamish (90% chance of rain and thunderstorms). 

Except for Hank…he has no choice.  Two of Redmond’s finest will assure he participates, and none of this “run in really quickly and come back out” stuff.  Straight off the dock into 10’ deep water, and then swim back.

Go to http://redmondplunge2016.kintera.org/faf/donorReg/donorPledge.asp?ievent=1148273&lis=1&kntae1148273=5ED9405770164E39B100EFEB2ED2E8CC&supId=416463342, donate now, and after the event you will get video proof.  You win, Special Olympics wins, and for once there will be proof that I am all wet.  Feel free to forward this email.

Thank you for your generous support-

Hank Myers

Redmond City Council

UPDATED: Redmond Council to hold Annual Retreat

Marymoor Village Community Center
retreat location

Council President Angela Birney announced in this week's Study Session the annual Council retreat will be Saturday, February 9th, 9-3 pm. The retreat location is Marymoor Village community center. Though it's open to the public only to watch, I for one will be joining others planting trees and shrubs in Idylwood Park.  Council member Hank Myers suggested the last 2-3 hours should be private so Council can discuss various City issues of concern without staff around. 

Council goals:  Hank Myers wants to instill agility and creativity.   Steve Fields wants to enhance community involvement at every level.  He asked to "spend less time being taught and more time discussing."  Jeralee Anderson wants to understand roles and responsibilities (mayor/council/staff.)  Hank Margeson wants to provide a free form discussion.

Police Chief Kristi Wilson said each City director will be next to a poster board facilitating discussion with two council members per board -- and the council members rotating amongst each other.  Steve Fields joked the Chief will be directing traffic. :)

Bob Yoder

Source:  Council Study Session, 1/22/19

Mayor and City Council to visit neighborhoods 4-6 times/year

UPDATED:  An exciting, uplifting presentation on the goals and progress of city communications was given by the city's Communications Manager Lisa Rhodes at last night's City Council Meeting.  Council President Hank Margeson was the acting Mayor in the absence of John Marchione.

The good news!  Two-way communication between the city and neighborhoods is improving by leaps and bounds.  Besides a recent update of the city website (check it out!) Rhodes reported the following communication improvements:

1) The city "is in the process of searching for a new Community Outreach Member to function as an ambassador with the community and hopefully enhance our 2-way communication."  This Member's responsibility will be to provide "PR and community outreach and engagement."

2) The Communications Department is in the planning stages for putting on a Community Outreach Roadshow!  Rhodes said "Four to six community meetings per year, focused on one or more key messages, are being planned so yourselves (council) and Mayor to communicate directly, face-to-face on a consistent basis with the community."  Council members Kim Allen and Hank Myers have been pushing for this for some time, and the Mayor has delivered.

Take a quick look at the city website and you'll notice important neighborhood information is now at your fingertips!  One of my favorites is "Issues and Questions" where you can get answers to your traffic concerns, drinking water issues, and more. (When in doubt don't by shy about contacting our city Ombudsman about anything that bothers you or things you're seeing in the city you like.)

Council Member David Carson had some very good questions about the city website during the meeting.  He asked Rhodes to include the email addresses of all city council members and key staff on the Staff Directory page. His concerns were about citizens wanting to "communicate something after hours."  Rhodes said she'd update it. Carson reported the website's Search Engine "is kinda awful."  Rhodes agreed and said they are working on it with a "revamp" hopefully by the summer.

Redmond's newest Council Member, Angela Birney suggested a more interactive webpage for our parks -- perhaps a place for maps, tennis court reservations, park area reservations, and the like.

Council Member Vice President Kim Allen touched on one of Education Hill neighborhood's key issues surrounding the city's rapid growth. Allen said "we're halfway there on my pet peeve for the website -- which is under the development tab.  How do people find out about land use actions?"  Rhodes said she'd fix the "development tab" right away.  Allen thanked Rhodes for her hard work saying, "One of the key focuses of the Council Retreat is going to be developing our own communication strategies."

Council Member John Stilin (can't remember his email address) was concerned about "civility" on social media sites.  Rhodes said her department is planning innovative online face-to-face webinars which is expected to help.

REGARDING TWO-WAY COMMUNICATION:  I'm excited to announce the new "Redmond Hill Neighborhood Association" (EdHNA),  It is in the forming stages and now holds monthly meetings at the Baptist Church on 166th Avenue.  You don't have to be a "member" to attend.  EdNHA is the brainstorm of activist Paige Norman.  Many, many thanks to Paige!  (She runs a good, fun meeting, too.)   Hank Myers, David Carson, Planning Commissioner Scott Biethan, Arts Commissioner Rob Levitt and Steve Fields participated in the first meeting along with about 25 other residents  All are welcome to the meetings.  Please RSVP here so we can set up enough chairs. EdHNA's new email address is:  edhillna@outlook.com

Bob Yoder

Council decides parking lot east of City Hall garage can be used by anyone

 Free, 24/7 parking lot in walking distance 'Park and Ride' is open to public.

From the desk of Ombudsman Hank Myers, Redmond City Councilmember, in response to a Redmond commuter...

Hi Kathleen,
"We have been discussing the parking situation in downtown in the last two [public] meetings. We have decided that the parking lot to the east of the City of Redmond garage, which was used by Metro during the construction of the park and ride garage, can be used by anyone, including commuters. There is no time limit as there is for on the street parking. Hope this might help your situation."
Best wishes-
Hank Myers

Dear Hank,
This is FANTASTIC news! I am pretty sure it will go to good use. The parking lot at the Redmond Transit Center has been filling up by 9:00AM all summer long--despite the fact that student bus use is probably way down during the summer. Once classes begin at the UW at the end of September I think the Transit Center parking will get worse. Since tolling on the 520 bridge has been delayed, the parking situation has not reached the tipping point, but once tolling does start I am sure parking needs will increase. I'll try to occasionally take pictures of the parking lots to document this.

Thank you so much for your time and thought and effort on this issue. I really appreciate it.
A happy Redmond commuter,
- Kathleen O'Conner

There does not appear to be any enforcement on cars parked there, and it is two blocks from the ST and Metro stop in front of the Redmond Public Library.  K.O.
Councilmember Kim Allen noted during the 9/20 council meeting that Council is has "de facto" permit for the lot.  According to council candidate Sue Stewart the Arts Commission recommended not to revert the lot back to "Art Hill."  B.Y.

Photo By Yoder, 3:30 pm, on a September week day.
Permission by Ms. O'Conner to publish her letter.

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

scroll down for updates

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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