REPUBLISHED: My tenant had a serious kitchen toaster fire -- what to do?

OPINION:  Several years ago a tenant in my Education Hill rental  experienced a serious, $6,000 "pop-tart" toaster fire.  He was very fortunate to put it out himself  but  he burned his hand and was shaken.  He said, if it wasn't for the smoke detector, the house would have burned down.  As it was, smoke damage was severe.  (I'll write a sequel some day.)  

According to the Bellevue Fire Department, most residential fires start in the kitchen and are caused by inattention.   Last year in Bellevue, 25% of all structural fires started in the kitchen.  I can't remember what my tenant did to put it out.  Here's what you can do:
 

1.  Cover the pot or pan with a lid.  Don't move the pan or the fire could spread!  (10 second video recommended by Redmond Fire Dept )

*2.  If you can't find a lid, cover with a wet cloth or towel.  Don't splash with water or a fire ball could rise.  (dramatised 30 second video emailed from my sister; requires G-Mail) 

3. Sprinkle baking soda on the grease fire and don't move the pan. (Redmond Deputy Fire Marshall Jim Underwood)   Fire extinguishers work but they can spread the fire, too.  (Bellevue Fire Dept.).

4. Close doors of burning microwave and oven grease fires and turn off the electricity.  Don't splash with water.  (Bellevue Fire Dept.)

* Disclaimer:  John Underwood, Redmond's Deputy Fire Marshall, neither endorsed nor denied the effectiveness and safety of using a water-rung towel to snuff out kitchen grease fires.  (Personally, I wouldn't hesitate using a wet towel on a toaster fire if I couldn't find baking soda or a fire extinguisher).

Do you know someone who's had a kitchen fire?  I hope the city will provide some kitchen fire prevention education on RCTV or their website. 

Opinion by Bob Yoder
Photo on City of Bellevue web site.
Republished from an earlier posting. 

The Mayoral Debate is posted here on UTube. Watch it here!

For those who's schedules aren't flexible enough to watch the Mayoral debate on RCTV,  I'm providing the UTube  mayoral debate HERE

I've listened and I'm voting for Steve Fields.  Watch the debate and decide for yourselves.

For those of you who don't know, there is a convenient drive-through Ballot Drop Box at Redmond City Hall.  No stamps needed.

Bob Yoder

 https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=WTbndDpkpkI&feature=youtu.be

Thousands of truckloads of soils to be relocated from and to the Downtown Park this summer

Jon Spanger, staff in the Ives and Marchione Administration, non-nonchalantly reported in last night's Council Study Session some alarming news about the development of the Downtown Park.

The park land is loaded with peat.  The peat has to be removed and replaced with dirt for stabilization.  15,000 yards -- a thousand truckloads -- must be removed. Probably another thousand truckloads will be needed to bring in replacement dirt.

The work is scheduled for 2-3 months this summer.  To make matters worse, the city will be working on the Cleveland--Redmond Way couplet conversion at the same time.  The Administration plans to hold several public meetings about it all.

Bob Yoder

Source:  RCTV Channel 21

8/15/06, Arts, Culture, and Public Engagement

my fourth post, written in 2006

CITY HALL - "SILVER THAW" - GATEWAYS - LOGOS - THE ARTS COMMISSION - OUR SALVATION

The overriding catalyst in the advancement of Redmond culture is public engagement.

Public "turnout" and citizen "activism", or participation, are the hallmarks of engagement. Recently, in a public meeting Mayor Ives proudly referred to "200" citizens turning out for the Transportation Management Plan (TMP). Perrigo Forest and Creek Corridor advocates cite "400-500" citizen woodland marchers.

When citizen participation ebbs the advancement of our culture stalls or veers off course. For example:

1) the new $40M City Hall and it's unfinished, mindless exterior artwork caught us by surprise.

2) regarding the scattered, eclectic, haphazard grouping of landscape sculptures -- should a glossy marketing brochure posted in parking lots be the answer to an incoherent theme?

3) Art Hill appears but a graveyard, to bury the "over kill" of art aquisition. The Ives Administration accumulated 100 pieces (or was it 300?) - so much stuff it had to be mapped by GPS.

3) Then, the unexpected, sudden appearance of a contemporary new City "hidden heron" LOGO. Where did THAT come from?

4) Will our city "Gateway entrances" and "Innovative Housing" be next to fall to ego and government-citizen disconnect? Together, we will advance our culture and make Redmond a better place to live; separate and alone, we falter and drift.

CITY HALL & "SILVER THAW": The above photo is of our new city hall and it's controversial exterior artwork "Silver Thaw", crafted by Ed Carpenter a Portland artist. This outdoor art was funded through our extremely generous 1% "capital improvement building fee." The city hall receptionist explained the artwork was co-selected by Wright / Runstad (contractor and owner of 'our' new city hall) AND the Arts Commission. City Council approved the selection. Question. - where were WE (public) during the selection process for 'Silver Thaw' and the City Hall design? Obviously, we were not engaged. Council President, Nancy McCormick had some words about a citizen "city design workshop" gathering years ago. Nancy didn't document attendance so for all we know only a small gathering of a few 'unrelenting vocals' turned out for the design decision.

"Silver Thaw" has many other names. The artist envisioned his work as "ice crystals", best be served at night. The mayor said these crystals look like "pick-up sticks". My public works friend calls these sticks "scaffolding". An elected official looked at the "scaffolding" and saw "reeds in water", or was it weeds? Which ever the plant, the Art appeared invasive to me. Councilman Jim Robinson denounced these "invasive weeds" publicly calling them "razor blades". Dallas, my 5th-grade lunch buddy at first said the razors were "cool" then seconds later called it "crazy". He was being complementary?

Dallas and other children are amazingly very much aware of Redmond's outdoor art. He noticed the "wind spinner art" at Redmond El. Prior to the oval Heron LOGO - years ago - Jessica Bushmyer, an elementary student drew a winning circular LOGO sketch. The Ives Administration cast off our youth culture to a Madison Avenue advertising company for a City brand. Last week I noticed a colorful new gateway to Bainbridge Island from the ferry landing. The gateway fencing was colored with children's art. Not to forget, future generations will be living with 'our' decisions. Together we make Redmond better.

Except for the faulty design of city council chambers, I'm finding our new city hall is cozier and more citizen-friendly each day. The Hall's professional and informed receptionist lends to a friendlier, less intimidating atmosphere. She pointed to a large, soft area rug by the fireplace and some fascinating volunteer art on display in the foyer. The echoing voices bouncing from high ceiling walls are less noticeable. Yes, the exterior glitzy 'artwork' invades the Hall....hopefully, one day only a vestigial remnant.

My biggest gripe about the Hall design are the chambers for council, commissioner and hearing examiner meetings. The layout is NOT public friendly. Cameras and microphones are manipulated to control what is seen and who sees it. It is most clear, staff asserts their full powers here. Next time you watch Redmond City TV Channel 21, look at where the public faces when addressing the city officials. The table seating is so poorly arranged that we public must talk to the BACKS of our audience. This seating layout is rude, disrespectful and unfair to the speaking public and the sitting officials. Yet, you will find staff is "front and center" in full view at all times! Some visitors have suggested removing the front rows of audience chairs to fix the problem. But, wouldn't that be too easy?! Next time you watch RCTV Channel 21 decide for yourself.

GATEWAYS: Last Wednesday marked the completion of the Planning Commission's formal discussions on "Gateways to Redmond". A citizen gave a 4 minute Items from the Audience about gateways. Stepping outside the box, he tried to describe a Digital Gateway for the city. A "Key" (computer) inserted into the Gate's "keyhole" (Redmond's website) http://redmond.gov/ would open the Door to Redmond's Digital Gateway. Digital Kiosks were proposed for mass transit stations, the library, City Hall as additional "Gateways".

Most commission talk centered around a physical map of potential gateway road entrances proposed by staff. Planning commissioner, Korby Parnell concluded the multi-session Gateway deliberations with the following comments. He 1) valued roadway gateways yet strongly recommended a "digital gateway", specifically the city website. 2) requested city council review and consider digital gateway(s) 3) recommended writing objective criteria to define gateway design, and 4) since the project had no immediate deadline he urged engagement of the public in sketching criteria for the locations and designs for our Gateways. He specifically recommended involving our elementary school children. Thank you, planning commission for your deliberations on gateways; I truly hope this participatory course is followed. (A Berger, Inc. consultant from Seattle later coined the Leary Ave. entrance as the "Old Town Gateway".... again with no known public input.)

LOGOS: My heart quickly moves me again to our new pre-ordained, heron city LOGO. I find it glitzy, a bit tricky, artificial. ...should I go on? What do you think about it? I would have posted a the heron LOGO "branding" image but, to be frank, I'm tired of looking at it. Herons don't even make their homes in Redmond anymore. The Leary "Heron Rockery" is sterile. The Heron we see now fly in from the nesting rookeries of Issaquah.

On several occasions, planning commissioners Snodgrass and Querry and probably others informally shared their distaste for the new LOGO. It's over-designed ... a "bird brained" design. The heron bird LOGO gives an appearance we are trying to fit our natural environment into our city, rather than the other way around. In fact, heron artwork now pops up all around town in some of the strangest places. Just look around. But, don't worry, the bird will find you. Just as staff creates heron art to replace our lost living "wader bird" they are now trying to create wetlands in our Parks to replace wild, function wetlands.

For a college project, I studied the behavior of the Great Blue Heron in an Ohio cranberry bog rookery and came to love and admire this magnificent wading bird. Redmond's glitzy new LOGO does not do this magnificent bird service.

Did you know, "The Great Blue" was written into Redmond's Development Guide 'law book' about two years ago? It was rubber-stamped by Council as our "Species of Local Importance". During Planning Commission review, the Great Blue Heron was already typed into the ordinance draft as Species of Local Importance, without any prior commissioner discussion! Now, I wonder who made that decision - staff and Ives. During the commission's **20+ sessions on Critical Areas Ordinance, the heron species was hardly discussed other than remarks by Martin about it being a SR520 "gateway" icon and it would receive "extra protections" as a species of local importance. In retrospect, 'extra protections' appear questionable and no laws- State or City - protect the bird. Fish & Wildlife has Guidelines for magagment of the bird and the City doesn't have to follow Guidlines and they don't.

** Sessions were prolonged for months to allow for as much project vesting as possible under the existing, less ecologically friendly Sensitive Area Ordinance.

On a similar note, during last year’s Redmond Critical Area public hearing, with some trepidation, my wife and I proposed "riparian" as our city's "Habitat of Local Importance". Priority riparian habitat is the rich, green ribbon of vegetation bordering our streams, lakes and wetlands. During my presentation, I suggested the green swirling line of old city LOGO (hanging above the council's heads) be considered 'riparian" in honor of our valuable and important city habitat. Council approved 'riparian' pending deliberation by the Planning Commission. The Planning Commission came to a contentious split decision after much vetting and hearing multiple presentations by the public. Commissioners K. Allen, S. Querry, and T. Hinman voted FOR 'riparian'. Guidance from the Mayor in an obscure staff memo encouraged Council to vote AGAINST 'riparian' . The final decision had to do with potential threats of riparian corridors to the development community; and because "local importance" designations are considered (a scary!) city law -- this, despite the "heron of importance" being passed as a law! ]
Shortly thereafter, the new & improved, funky, spiffy, right-on, cool, awesome, Dude! "heron-in-hiding logo" appeared on RC-TV, Focus, city stationery, public notices, municipal buildings, public works trucks, the city web site, city business cards...everywhere and out of nowhere! It's the 'out of nowhere' part that bothers and frightens me. Who made this LOGO decision? The Mayor obviously had a large part in it, possibly preparing a legacy?. Were citizens engaged in this critical decision of culture? NO! I don't recall the planning commission ever deliberating on it, only that several were upset with the LOGO. Worse case scenario is the LOGO art & design farmed out to consultants and staff. Think of the tens of thousands of taxpayer dollars that must have been spent on this thing. We deserve some answers and I imagine they'll be popping up soon.

THE ART COMMISSION'S STRATEGIC PLAN- our salvation ?

Have you ever met the Arts Commission -- a group of 9 citizen volunteers, appointed by the Mayor and approved by the Council -- dedicated and passionate about furthering Art culture in our communities? I've seen the commission twice, both on TV 21. Both commission appearances were drastically different in form and substance. In the first telecast very few commissioners talked. An assertive staff member dominated and directed most of the commissioners' deliberations. I think I remember Chair Roy Leban, John Stilin, and Kay Tarapoisi doing most of the talking ; staff let the quieter commissioners mostly dangling. I can't remember what staff was goading and chiding them about. I vividly remember a preciously fun & entertaining guitar and song performance by creative commissioner Eva Moon. I have to tell you, Eva is one of my favorites and I hope to hear her perform at Victors or, some fortunate day, our own community art center on Cleveland Avenue.

A few weeks later the second telecast aired. Their meeting was well attended with Mayor Ives dressed in 'Redmond red' and all the council members but Mr. Robinson present. Mr Robinson, Chair of Parks & Art was probably out on Boeing business and his absence was noticeable. A Parks Recreation staff manager was present. She was more "parksy" than "artsy" but didn't take over the meeting like previous staff. She mentioned Parks is looking for a new advisor to assist the commission....I hope more sensitive and empathetic to the commission's temperament and needs.

The crux of the second meeting was a discussion of a new "strategic plan" for art designed to: 1) position the commission to be more proactive, 2) get them "moving ahead" towards seeing the "big picture", 3) utilize the city web site to increase communication & visibility, 4) encourage sub-committees support from citizen volunteers, 5) define values to insure commissioner continuity 6) create a vision statement.....

I barely heard John Stilin, a newer commissioner, read the commission's vision statement. It went something like "diverse arts opportunities are a principle reason why citizens love living here, why artists are attracted to live and work here, and why tourists visit Redmond." Council member Vache brought attention to this statement with high praise and commendation. Mayor Ives was pleased and suggested the commissioner’s vision statement and strategic plan be published on the city web site.
to be continued....

UPDATED`.4/17 Redmond 2022 Legislative Agenda

Nina Rivkin, Chief Policy Advisor for Redmond, retired receiving accolades from Mayor Birney, King County Executive Dow Constantine and King County councilmember Claudia Balducci.  They proclaimed "March 23, 2022 Nina Rivkin Day." Ms. Rivkin was a City executive for 20 years. Prior to Redmond whe worked for King County 13 years.  Linked in. 

CITY OF REDMOND 2022 STATE LEGISLATIVE AGENDA 

(The City Council recommends the agenda, the Mayor adopts the agenda)

Top Priority Issues 

148th Bicycle and Pedestrian Overpass Funding: The City encourages the Legislature to adopt a transportation revenue package to invest in projects throughout the state. Within the package, Redmond requests $27 million to construct a bicycle and pedestrian overpass on 148th Avenue NE across SR 520 to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety. This project supports significant growth and investments in the region - including the Overlake Light Rail Station, the Microsoft Refresh project, and significant housing development including affordable units. Affordable.  State awarded $8 million.

Housing and Preventing Homelessness: Redmond developed a Housing Action Plan to identify actions needed to improve housing affordability. The City supports funding and local option tools to diversify the housing supply, including targeted investments at the lowest income level, as well as funding the Housing Trust Fund (HTF) and the Housing Essential Needs (HEN) program. Funding Source: "Federal Infrastructure Package."

In response to challenges stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, Redmond supports policies, programs, and rental, mortgage, and utility assistance to ensure residents remain housed as the eviction moratoria ends. 

WINTER STORM FORUM - First Storm

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

*12/22/08 - roads are extremely hazardous. try to stay away from all back-street hills, especially driving downhill. ice under snow. 4-wheel, 2-wheel, it doesn't matter.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Due to severe weather the Puget Sound Blood Center is experiencing a critical shortage in blood.

Please stop at the regional donor centers (anytime this week or next) : http://www.psbc.org/programs/centers.htm
-- Communications Dept., City of Redmond
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Windstorm preparedness:
http://www.redmond.gov/disasterprep/winterstorms.asp

Redmond Community Radio AM 1650 works best from a car radio.

Tune into AM 1650 (which would mean you'd need a radio with batteries)--there is already information about windstorm preparedness and it will be updated regularly regarding warming centers, shelters, closures, and other information necessary to survive if the electricity goes out. Hopefully this won't happen, but please be prepared in case it does. -- Redmond Police

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- STORM FORUM (EMAIL REDMONDBLOG@GMAIL.COM or "comment" and I will post your comment on this page)

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

..... has the City contracted operators with heavy equipment to begin plowing access routes for not only trapped citizens but emergency vehicles such as fire and ambulance? There has been no mail delivery or garbage service on this street for over a week.I speak specifically of NE 105th Court. The residents at the bottom of this steep hill have hand shoveled two paths a block long so that those with 4WD vehicles can negotiate the hill.

--Loren, Education Hill neighbor

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

from Mayor John Marchione

"Letter to the Editor"

I am very aware that the last week and a half has been very challenging for us at the City and, of course, for you as residents and business owners. The snow, freeze, thaw, snow cycle has stressed the City’s snow clearing capacity to its limits, and has severely impacted citizens ability to move about and through Redmond. As of Christmas Eve, we are still battling the elements.

To some residents it appears the City is doing very little to clear the roads; however, I assure you our Public Works crews are working around the clock and have been since this storm began. Since this type of sustained snowstorm is very rare (if not unprecedented), the City has invested in the proper amount of snow removal equipment for our more normal, much more limited, snow falls. Our three large and one small plow/sander trucks have been working the City’s streets in our established priority order. The highest priority is our arterioles and main thoroughfares. Once the main streets are plowed, we move on to plowing the secondary streets with cul-de-sacs being the lowest priority. With the almost daily snowfall and nightly freezing during this storm, it has been difficult to get beyond the highest priority areas.

Since I am also a resident living on one of the city’s largest hills, I understand your frustration with the outcomes of this storm. Not having a 4-wheel drive, I am also finding it difficult to move around. While some errands are required; along with the Redmond Police, I urge you to avoid driving unless absolutely necessary until we get some rain to wash this snow away. I also urge you to use the City’s communication tools, our website (www.redmond.gov), RCTV cable channel 21, and our new low-frequency Emergency Radio station, AM 1650, to keep updated on the latest closure information as well as tips on how to weather the storm.

This storm has caused a great deal of havoc and I want you to know that the City of Redmond is doing all it can to improve the roads. However, I also know that for those stuck in a cul-de-sac on a steep hill, that may be little comfort. I can only ask for your patience during this difficult event.

Despite these trials, I hope that your family is together (if only in spirit) and safe this holiday season. On behalf of all of us at City Hall, I wish you a happy holiday season and a very happy and healthy New Year.

Happy Holidays,
John Marchione, Mayor of Redmond

12/24/08, per email from C.O.R. (color edits)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Anonymous

Email or Call the City to Plow and Sand 104th East of Abbey. Public input regarding the City's snow and ice removal policy and procedures is welcome and can be voiced by calling 425-556-2821 or emailing pwops@redmond.gov.

--Anonymous "comment" December 23, 2008 3:51 PM

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

Redmond Citizen said...
*I completely agree the initial conditions were not as dangerous as reported. However, the strategy employed by the city now has created a very hazardous situation. Through the natural thaw and freeze cycles, a layer of ice has formed on the compacted snow. In the past years, within a few days the hills were sanded. Our city’s lack of preparedness for the storm has stranded thousands of people. Unfortunately, this seems to have been by choice – a major thoroughfare like 104th not being plowed for 5 days.
-- Redmond Citizen
December 23, 2008 7:54 AM

How about a blog post where the community can share feedback on maintenance during the storm of 104th and 166th? For some folks - those make up 2 of five road closures - and they can legally not drive out of their homes without passing a "road closed" sign. I already emailed the mayor on this very subject with appropriate caveats regarding both safety, road priority, and plow allocation. The net is that a huge taxpayer base on Ed Hill is legally trapped with more snow on the way. Specifically, the neighborhoods feeding into 184th @ 104th.
- ANDY
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This may sound macho, but I'm from snowy Ohio and New York and if you drive smart the conditions aren't as hazardous as the City would like you to believe. (12/19) If you don't have front wheel drive or all-wheel drive then, I'd agree with the police and stay off the roads unless you're rear-wheel drive has cables or chains. Some tips from blizzard driving experience: 1) drive slowly, especially on down-hill curves , when turning, approaching intersections and when breaking. 2) when you begin driving test your traction once or twice by braking hard on a level road clear of cars, 3) use your lowest gear going down hills or icy roads to minimize breaking. 4) Usually the biggest road hazard are the cars around you! Look in your rear view mirror especially near intersections for fast moving cars that could skid into you. 5) As you start to drive up a hill, don't gun it or spin your wheels. Creep, creep, creep into a slow start. 6) leave 2-3x as much distance than usual between you and the car in front. 7) If a macho 4-wheeler is riding your back, pull over and let him pass (& crash)!
- BOB, 12/19

Glimpse Of Redmond Councilmembers In Action

l-r Melissa Stuart, David Carson, Jeralee Anderson, President Jessica Forsythe, Varisha Khan, V.P. Vanessa Kritzer, Steve Fields (remote.)           Staff have backs to the camera.

I'm going to periodically report on the important Council "Committee of the Whole" meetings.  It will give you a chance to watch and listen to our representatives and see them take action on the agenda.  Most of their work with staff gets done here.  This is a meeting  of the "Planning and Public Works Committee."

Click HERE to watch the tape of five councilmembers discussing Redmond's "signalization intersection project" with Kirkland ($2,218,035.)   Scroll the tape to find:  Stuart, 15:35m;  Forsythe 16:40m;  Carson 17:00m;  Stewart 21:00m;  Fields 22:00m;  Krtizer 23:15m. (Kahn did not participate.)    

Ms. Khan's term ends December 31, 2023.  She's participated in less than 75% - 85% of council meetings.  The Mayor would have her exact attendance records.  

-- Bob Yoder, Opinion, 10/9/2023

    Photo:  RCTV Comcast 21  

Council Notes: Scooters & Salaries

Council Meeting Notes:  

E-scooters and e-bikes pilot project discussed.  Seattle and Everett are the only cities in Puget Sound that have e-scooters.  Parking spaces will not be marked with paint owing to maintenance.  Several councilmembers complained about e-scooters as difficult to ride, blocking sidewalks and ADA intersections. At least 9 accidents were reported by the Fire Dept.  Most didn't want more than one vendor owing to multiple phone applications.  Lime is the present vendor; they will present to council in their next meeting.  September may be the month council decides on a permanent contract.  Email feedback to council at council@redmond.gov.

Council Salaries:  Councilmember Anderson started a 29 minute discussion about council salaries, recommending Ordinance 3116 be repealed or amended to allow council to set their own salaries for new members. They decided to have a private Executive Session to discuss the matter.  Councilmember Varisha Kahn made a rare comment agreeing to an Executive Session. For the most part, Ms. Kahn very rarely participates in any conversation at council meetings.  

The city pays each councilmember over $18,600/year, plus generous benefits. 

Watch council discuss council salaries at this video meeting:  1:01:38 - 1:30:19

-- posted by Bob Yoder, 7/27/2023,  Source:  RCTV and mayor memo

4/25/07, Parks Levy plans and presentation

The Parks Commissioners and Director Craig Larsen (above) pretty much received unanimous agreement and support for this proposal from COUNCIL & MAYOR at council's study session on levys, 4/25/07

Draft: Park and Recreation Levy Proposal
Background: The Redmond Parks and Recreation Department and the Redmond Parks Board have reviewed the options for a Parks and Recreation levy, and have the following findings and recommendations.

Findings:
Maintenance, Operation and Program expenses have surpassed current funding. We can not adequately maintain our parks, trails and facilities; respond to demand for programs; or adequately staff our parks and community centers.

With one exception, we have not received the funds needed to maintain parks and trails, street landscaping or other facilities purchased or built after 1999.

We do not have the resources to maintain parks, trails and facilities purchased or built after December 31, 2006.

We do not have the resources to maintain street right-of-way landscaping constructed after December 31, 2006.

The growth of Redmond area population, and the quality and success of our programs, creates demands for additional staff and program hours.

There are unfunded responsibilities for Native Growth Protection Easements, and urban forestry, and opportunities to expand the parks and recreation volunteer program which would improve habitat and reduce hazards.

In light of these challenges, it is appropriate and advisable to ask citizens to approve a levy sufficient to fund all critical park and recreation system needs.

Recommendations:

Seek a levy rate of $0.10/1000 AV to fund the following.
1. Teen Center FTE
$58,000

2. O&M Parks built before 2007
$307,000

3. O&M Parks built 2007 to 2012
$210,000

4. O&M street landscaping built 2007 to 2012
$120,000

5. Teen Center open seven days a week
$186,000

6. After School Programs for Elem./Jr. high
$75,000

7. Health, Wellness and Fitness
$30,000

8. Urban Forestry
$140,000

9.Expanded Arts Program
$50,000

10. Expanded Flower Program
$40,000

Total
$1,216,000

5/1/07 From the most recent meetings if appears Council will pay off all Operation and Maintenance (O&M) expenses by tapping into our Capital Improvement Program (CIP). The amount needed to pay off our O&M is about $605,000 - an equivalent of .05/$1K. Tranfering $$ from the CIP cuts down on the amount of the park levy. The levy is projected to be about 3 cents/$K property tax. After School Programs are up in the air. The CIP has idle, unallocated funds which can be judiciously used.

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

4/25/07 PART 1 - PARKS LEVY - Intense council debate -- commissioners to the rescue!
I'm still recovering from last night's levy debate on safety (fire & police) and parks. Whoa! The levy issue is so HUGE for us I could ooze thoughts for days.

Unfortunately, a problem we must contend with is the "election factor" -- with the fuzziness and sometimes angst it brings. Perhaps, a separate story on levy politics? Here goes my first take on what came out of last night's discussion. This story focuses on the values of our unpaid citizen-volunteer parks & trails commissioners....

Kudos to The Board of Parks Commissioners! And, sincere thanks to council Pres. McCormick, Vice-Pres. Vache, and/or Parks Chair Jim Robinson for requesting the presence of the Parks commissioners for the parks levy discussion! The four commissioners who spoke up for the people -- three of which sat at the table -- did an incredibly AWESOME job explaining citizens need for parks and assuring Council that the money requested was truly justified. Special thanks to Lori Snodgrass, Sue Stewart, and Dayle "Hank" Margeson! (Hank is running for council this year.)

They did a tremendous job and I urge anyone who can watch the replay of their effort to tune into RCTV 21 this Sunday at 9PM. (I think they'll be on around 10:30PM after the fire/police gig).

My wife thought the city should do a survey of citizen's needs and desires for Parks. In fact, the commissioners did apparently do a survey a two years ago. The result -- according to commissioner Margeson, 2/3 of surveyed citizens agreed to support a .10/$K park levy increase (lid lift). That's huge community support.

In the end, we take confidence from the hard work of our parks & trails commissioners over the last 5 years (!) on their budget. Our dedicated commissioners are 100%, unpaid citizen volunteers -- many have children, some are seniors, some are teens, some artists, single and/or with families.

Some care about passive parks, others active parks, and arts parks, community parks, pocket parks; some care about trails or land acquisition, some value historic facilities like the Old Redmond School House and the Old Fire House Teen Center and wood artist Dudley Carter's homestead; or the new skateboard 'edge' park or rehabbed pool; and not least, the after-school daycare programs....an on...

In general, our commissioners care about all of our city's rich resources - our wellhead designs, open spaces, tree canopy, street corner flower pots, creeks, wildlife, watersheds and yes even plantings in our ever-growing street mediums --- yes, the Parks Dept. has maintained our mediums!

THUS , Council was blessed, and benefited greatly from inviting parks commissioners Sue Stewart, "Hank" Margeson, and Lori Snodgrass (and Mary B.) to sit at the table with council as consultants to our Council.

Council members did all that was within them to thank our commissioners for their valued advice, dedicated effort, and solid plan.

Commissioners put it all in perspective in stating: "the park levy is costing the equivalent of a tall, mocha latte per month". Thank you, I can relate to that. And, you listed exactly and openly your reasoning and benefits for this 'cup.'

Your integrity is valued. You say the neighborhoods and citizenry are behind it, will promote it. We believe you. You've spent 5 years working on this, hands-on, so your decisions aren't flippant. No politics of the moment. There is nothing tangible in it for you - money or power -- just your desire to serve. I respect you. Your needs are transparent. I trust you. You don't hide things from us.

My dear commissioners, THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING YOU DID FOR US at the chamber table tonight!

If anyone wants to comment please follow the comment directions at the BOTTOM of this blog or email redmondblog@gmail.com for blog posting; I will cut n paste.

City Hall overflows! Redmondites make requests for how our tax dollars should be spent.

OPINION: Wow! What an evening last night at City Hall! And to discuss a Budget, no less! Amazingly, citizen turn-out overflowed seating capacity. The last time I've seen participation like this was at the Camwest "Perrigo Heights" woodland clear-cut debate.

If you missed the meeting, you can catch the intro on RCTV-21 archives. But, the breakout sessions were not taped -- the best part. However, the breakout session minutes and citizens' requests can be found "here".

Let me clue you in - Marchione's presentation of the budget process was "the flipside" - a jump shift, from the laborious and bureaucratic sessions of the previous administration. And oh, how refreshing! Last year Council and Staff Directors had to struggle with over 25 tortuous study sessions, while the general staff & citizens where left out to dry.

This year, highly involved citizens shared leadership with select staff on "Results Teams", focused on the seven budget priorities. The best part? We "lowly citizens" had several opportunities to tell and sell the city on what WE wanted funded! Our "requests for funding offers" will be screened by the Staff Departments and presented to Council. It felt like we were really being heard and, with all sincerity, about how WE wanted the Council to spend our tax dollars. It's hard to believe , but "Budgeting by Priorities" - was actually FUN! Much more so than the previous administration's endless & squishy "Budgeting with Remorse" sessions. ha!

Our Council has the hardest part in the whole process. I feel for them, as follows:

1. During the meeting councilmembers had to hold their thoughts and emotions back while WE expressed our needs & wants with staff, fellow citizens, and the Results Teams.


2. Council must now sit down in front of the cameras and winnow out the winning "requests". Of course, our Safety (fire and police) comes first. Then, the roads, sewer lines and wastewater infrastructure must be built to cope with all our growth. Land use planning for a green environment must be satisfied.


3. Even with all these capital and operational expense requirements, I truly *believe funds will be "left over" for the things that can make Redmond a Great City, rather than just another one of the many corporate Edge Cities of America. Our art, culture, heritage, city branding, human services, amenities, "gathering places", business and neighborhood communities are all on the table. The Results Team and Council may have some tough decisions to make.

The ultimate success of "Budgeting by Priorities" will rest with Mr. Mayor Marchione's financial skills and ability to uncover and reallocate funds. I firmly *believe Mayor Marchione has the leadership and financial skills to do it. Stay tuned for the results!

EDITORIAL - What am I trying to do with this Blog? The importance of my Readers

MISSION STATEMENT: The "Redmond Neighborhood Blog" brings transparency to the City of Redmond, Lake Washington School District, Evergreen Hospital District and other local jurisdictions, to encourage them to listen to their constituents and make positive changes; the Blog helps Greater Redmond citizens to share their lives, be seen and heard in their neighborhoods, come together to find solutions.

After numerous tweaks, I'm satisfied with this Mission Statement and present it to you, my readers and friends.  Do you want to say something?

I am a community activist. I do this for free. My core reporting niche is the scrutiny and daylighting of our local governments.  Believe it or not, only about 1-2% of Redmond citizens really care about the City of Redmond government to participate in it's process.  Present, high vacancies on the city's Boards and Commissions is one example.   As long as the toilets flush, we have water to drink, roads free of potholes, taxes are reasonable, schools educate and we feel safe, then residents have other things to do than watch RCTV, go to a planning meeting, or fill out a city survey.  This blog will help you feel more engaged with our elected.

To strike a balance with tedium and apathy of government (and keep Internet exposure high) I try to write about lifestyle experiences important to me as a resident that I think may interest you.   But, Redmond is so much more than my family's living experience and what I think!   It's about your lives.  It's about what you think!  So, please share your stories and photos, comment below a post, or send an email!   And, please don't hesitate tell me how I can make this thing better. 

I need to focus more on daylighting local governements.  Will you share a Redmond experience?  Do you have something to say about your neighborhood? 

Thank you,

Bob Yoder, Editor
Redmond Neighborhood Blog
Please write to me at:  redmondblog@gmail.com
425-802-2523

New Street Stormwater Drain Markers Warn Against Dumping.

NEW CURB MARKER? DO WE WANT THESE ON OUR CURBS?

Opinion: Have you seen these environmental "curb markers" next to your street storm drains? I found them on three street drains on NE 100th Street. The City may be doing a test market or complete citywide campaign to improve warning signage. I don't know which, but I like what they are doing so far. Would you like these?

When I first moved here, I had no idea that street drains dumped their stuff into Bear Creek and the Sammamish River! I thought it all went into the sewer. Some of the more common bad stuff is: non degradable car wash soaps, lawn fertilizer, insecticides, weed killers, and even gas and engine oils and paint. The curb markers are a good reminders to keep these nasty chemicals away from street drains.

I think the best "no dumping" public announcement the City has done (besides these markers) is the hilarious advertisement they show on RCTV - Channel 21. They show a guy washing his car with soapy water and then superimpose the image over a rushing stream. The idea being: washing your car in your driveway is synonymous to washing it in stream. The City then recommended going to a car wash instead of washing at home, because it's less polluting and uses less water. I almost felt guilty, but then made sure I was washing with non-phosphate soaps all the time. I'm sure the 8 car wash businesses in Redmond like the TV promotion.

The Curb Markers are made by a company in the USA. (800-549-6024). The company posts success stories on how their markers are installed by students for educational and scientific gain. I wonder if a Redmond teacher or PTSA Board would pick up on this?

The Curb Markers come with a FROG or FISH design. Do you have any preference? It took me a while but I decided I like the frog 'cause they used to live in street drains when I was a kid.

Curb Marker website: http://www.dasmanufacturing.com/stories.html

Redmond Car Washes: http://local.yahoo.com/WA/Redmond/Automotive/Car+Washes

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

UPDATED OPINION: The city's "Budget By Priorities" process could be better

City government hasn't encouraged citizen participation and awareness of the budget process so far this year. 

BACKGROUND:  Two years ago Councilmember Richard Cole introduced a novel approach to streamlining the city budget process, called "Budget By Priorities" (BBP).  One of BBP's best features is citizen participation.  Today, citizens are mostly unaware that they can participate. Will it improve?  

 In 2008, the initial community meeting was well attended by over 60 citizens.  This year 6 citizens signed in at the registration desk.   Mayor Marchione presented  six budget priorities:  1) Clean Green Environment, 2) Community Building, 3)  Responsible Government, 4) Safety, 5) Business Community, and 6) Infrastructure and Growth.   The city government's priorities haven't changed from two years ago.

In 2008, citizens attended a second meeting of workshops on each priority when everyone got to talk and share their requests.  It was excellent.  This year, workshops aren't planned or announced.  

In 2008, I participated the Community Building workshop.  My "request " (as the lingo goes) for city-wide WI-FI was rejected by staff during the workshop, though  WI-FI is now planned for the Parks.  After the workshops, the Mayor sent his "Results Team" (1 citizen/5 staff)  to work, ranking and screening staff and citizen requests.  This year the Results Teams were formed before the first Community Meeting and according to a Team member "they have been working very hard".   

PROBLEMS WITH THE PROCESS THIS YEAR?   Our city government is shuttering shut a window here and a window there - participation and transparency is fading, as follows:

1. Two councilmembers (~30%) were missing at the opening BBP meeting.  Council makes the final decisions on the budget.  They represent us on city spending.    
2. After the meeting I asked if I could be on a Results Team.  The Mayor responded by email, quote:  "As for the Results Teams, the application date closed February 19th and they have been appointed."  What??  Where was the advertising?  The notices?  The mailers?  The RCTV bulletins?  The city website notice?   The city press release was simply:  "City Seeks Residents for Budget Teams".  What Teams?  What budget?  No reference was made to "Budge By Priorities". 
3. The Administration wouldn't disclose who was on the Results Teams. I had to file a Public Request.  Why shouldn't we know the names and titles of  these important teams?   (stay tuned).  We may want to ask a question or make a request.     
4. The Results teams weren't introduced at the March meeting and most didn't even make the meeting.  Only one Results Team member signed in at the March community meeting.  Yet, the mayor emailed he "needed the priorities and results teams to come together on March 1".   Why? 
5. The Mayor elects the 6 volunteers for the results team.  Deputy Administrator Jane Christenson wrote in an email, "the City advertises for interested citizens...the Mayor then considers those who have expressed interest for the assignment...".  Hmm. Advertises? 

Enough said.   

The question to ask is what do you YOU think??  Is participation in the budget process important to you?  Am I nit-picking?  Do you care about this?  If you are so inspired, please comment! ....

Opinion By Bob Yoder

Editorial - the Magic of Mayor Marchione

The pace of change and events in Redmond has increased exponentially since John Marchione was elected Mayor, joined the Sound Transit Board and began his work. Enhanced transparency of government operations and a well oiled council machine move city actions and events faster than can be reported. To be frank, it's impossible to keep up as a 1-man nonprofit neighborhood reporter.

Mayor John Marchione is off to a fast start. Just off the top of my head, I can think of many positive actions and events of the first seven months of the John Marchione Administration. Of course, there are bumps along the road and a mayor's work is never done, but Mr. Marchione is generally doing a fantastic job. Here are my thoughts about Mr. Mayor's progress:

1. Improvement and transparency of Open Meeting policies, Public Records Requests, Council Committee activities, participation of commissions in Council Meetings, and increased public participation by staff members previously unseen. Council meetings are efficient, productive and documented online for the public.

2 Reaching out to citizens to engage our neighborhoods by: promoting Neighborhood Block Watch potluck gatherings and looking into "Neighborhood Associations", keeping a watchful eye on the Redmond Neighborhood Blog, enhancing Derby Days with extra support from Microsoft, Geni Industries, and small businesses, providing a Neighborhood Land Use map on the city website, and yes, team building with fire and police during the First-ever Dodgeball tournament at Redmond High School!

2. Making the Budget process more palatable and participatory for the neighborhoods by prioritizing citizen needs. Providing document links to the online Consent Agenda to expose budget decisions.

3. Improving traffic and pedestrian safety by problem solving controversial road projects like the Bear Creek Parkway Extension, Redmond-Woodinville widening idea, 166th Ave rechannelization and RJH stop light project and on. At a recent Conference of Mayors Mayor Marchione demonstrated leadership for bicycle commuting. John is an influential member of the well connected Sound Transit Board.

4. Proving to be as "green" -if not more so - as previous administrations by: Bringing out the best of our already top-notch Natural Resources staff to upgrade our stormwater management systems with state of the art regional plans for Overlake, Downtown, and SE Redmond urban centers. Funding reforestation programs with the Cascade Conservancy to remove riparian invasives, recruit youth for stream restoration, hire a geologist and "aquifer team" to sustain the quality and affordability of our drinking water. Work with inter-local governments, like county councilmember Kathy Lambert to improve our Evans and Bear Creek shorelines and safeguard our aquifer; and converse with Rep. Ross Hunter to assist Cole and Allen secure SR 520 widening species protections and flood mitigation.

5. Swift and open acknowledgment of serious needs for affordable housing. John invited Art Sullivan, Manager of ARCH eastside affordable housing, to present solutions to council. Funding was quickly approved to help service-workers, teachers & young adults of Redmond families afford a place to live in Redmond and reduce fuel consumption.

6. Parks are expanding. A string of 5 rural parks along historic Bear Creek East of Avondale will be developed and connected by a trails. Environmental education and heritage centers will occupy the park's historic buildings.

7. I have never seen staff happier or more empowered. John wasn't afraid to identify and cull the few "bad apples" early in his administration. City Hall staff was downtrodden by stalled salary and benefit negotiations under the prior administration for over a year. John and council swiftly dealt with the problem and re-energized the staff.

8. Mr. Mayor has put the exterior art "crystals" back on the city hall building RCTV. This, small act is a loud symbol of city pride and transparency. John has revitalized the Arts Commission with new goals to attract tourists and commuters with nationally renknowned art, like the coming Digital Arts Festival!

9. John's accomplished all this and he's only into 1/8 of his first term! I've reported on Mr. Mayor for over a year, including councilwork, 5 months of his mayoral candidacy and 7 months in office. And, he's been more active than I can report!

10. The reason for John's success? He doesn't let his ego get in the way of a good idea. He is willing and open to bend or change course when he sees a good thing. He listens, respects and values citizen and staff opinions and ideas, and responds! John is not afraid to put his ego aside and to achieve the best, consensual decision for the city. John will make you chuckle. John understands the numbers. And, he is bright.

As with all my opinion stories, your comments are welcome and encouraged by posting them below or emailing. For this Opinion, I will publish Letters submitted by citizens.

As I said, I just can't keep up with the pace of the Administration and our council! My neighborhood reporting is falling behind. Volunteer Kay Taraposli ("kid's topics") and Richard Morris ("parks & trails") and others gave me more work than I could review. Thus, I'm looking for funding to keep this non profit weblog, or a non-political version, running. If you can help with funding please email me at redmondblog@gmail.com. Thank you! Bob Yoder

A rebuttal to the Ives Administration on my final "Redmond Reporter" column on water supply

In February, 2007 I was asked by John Huether, Editor of the "Redmond Reporter," to write a column about Redmond events connected in some way to Council and Administration's work. I wrote 11 "Citizen Watch" columns. I will periodically post my columns on the Neighborhood Blog for those who missed them or to make a point. In this case, I am highlighting parts of my "water supply" column that Kim Van Eckstrom, Redmond's Chief Communications Officer objected to as "inaccurate." This was my last column accepted by the Redmond Reporter since Van Eckstrom's complaints to the new Editor, Bill Christianson. Some have asked me to rebut the Administration...which I do at the end of the column.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OPINION / "We face a water supply challenge" by Bob Yoder, 'Redmond Reporter', 7/11/07

Walking Perrigo Woods trail last week, I noticed construction materials dumped next to the “Perrigo Springs memorial willow and historic marker”. The city is looking for the contractor responsible for this oversight. (1) As if enough wasn’t enough for Redmond’s historic spring, CAMWEST DEVELOPMENT is building a steep-slope sewer pipe to service the 24-home Perrigo Heights project. The pipe will run within yards of the spring.

Perrigo Springs was Redmond’s only water supply until 1927 and it served as a major source of supply until 1962 – hard to believe. To visit Perrigo Springs from Avondale, drive to the end of 180th Ave. NE. Or, hike down the trail from NE 100th St.

Redmond’s two present sources of drinking water are: 1) the ground and 2) from the Reed Mountain watershed (5,331 ft), east of Carnation. About 40% of our drinking water is stored in an underground “aquifer” and drawn from five city wells. Redmond’s aquifer is only 5-20 feet below the surface so keeping hazardous waste off the ground is critical. After citizens reported a waste site on the Evans Creek bank aquifer last year, the city initiated a “ground water monitoring program” and “online” hazardous waste reporting. (2)

The remaining 60% of our water supply is piped from the Tolt River reservoir, fed by the Reed Mountain watershed. Recently, the city has recently combined Tolt Reservoir water with well water for projects, like Perrigo Heights.

The Avondale well (#4) (3) has been challenged, in part, by a loss of pervious land paved over by multiple, housing developments. Pervious land is required for recharging our aquifer with rain water. The city is working with AegisLiving to preserve historic Keller Farm wetlands vital to aquifer recharge. Aegis is proposing to set aside 119 acres of wetlands they bought from historic Keller Farm (pumpkins!) adjacent Avondale Road, Aegis plans to build a retirement community on the parcel’s remaining 6 acres.

According to the Redmond website, city water customers have doubled in the last 10 years. (4)More alarming, King County population is expected to increase 300,000 by 2025 –the equivalent of Tacoma and Bellevue combined! By 2020 existing water supplies will not be enough to reach forecasted demands (2001 Pug. Sd. Reg. Outlook).

With 12,000-plus moving into Redmond within 10 years, what is the city doing to keep up with demand? Redmond has partnered with the regional Cascade Water Alliance to build a new $55M supply system. Councilman John Marchione is on the Board.

The Alliance plan: Lake Tapps in Tacoma will store mountain water originating from eastern Mt. Ranier’s Emmons glacier and the White River. Emmons glacier is huge but started retreating in 2003. University of Washington scientists forecast a 59% loss of snow pack by 2050 due to global warming. Much is at stake! Conservation is critical.

Bellevue saved 20% by implementing a “water conservation program”. Visit http:// savingwater.org for excellent conservation tips, rebates, and free devices. Tell city officials to initiate a “water conservation program”. (5) The Alliance alone won’t solve our next generation’s water needs.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rebuttal

(1) Bill Campbell, Acting Director of Public Works told me they were trying to get in touch with the contractor.
(2) My statement is correct is found on Redmond's website link under "Activities" 2007: http://redmond.gov/insidecityhall/publicworks/environment/grhistory.asp
(3) Edit. At the time I wrote this article, the city had taken off the No. ID's from their Wellhead Protection Zone map. The city is numbering their Wellheads on site but still not on the Wellhead Protection Zone Map. Wells no longer appear to be named after streets ie. "Avondale well" but that could change. I learned tonight that #5 (by Target) is the most productive and important well and most subject to stormwater run-off and infiltration from SE Redmond industrial area. Council has allowed these industrial businesses to continue to discharge stormwater by infiltration. (7/08). DNR will be installing a 300 acre regional stormwater system in the area, soon! This has been promulgated by the new Costco warehouse. 6/17/08
(4) My statement is correct and used to be referenced on Redmond's website link under "Wellhead Protection Ordinance Updates". http://redmond.gov/insidecityhall/publicworks/environment/grhistory.asp
*Van Eckstrom DELETED from the site: "The City of Redmond has grown and doubled the number of its customers in the past 10 years - making care of its precious and limited water supplies all that much more important". I have a hard copy of the original web page.
(5) Mayor Ives told me after a council meeting they've had a conservation program for 16 years. My answer is: 1) my column is an OPINION column and I didn't think we had much of a program. 2) as it turns out we didn't have a program plan in writing. ..rather a rebate offering and occasional Public Service Announcements on RCTV and FOCUS magazine.
October, 2007 the city initiated a Water Conservation Efficiency Program, linked below: http://redmond.gov/insidecityhall/citycouncil/20071016pdfs/IIIA1.pdf Case closed!

The Administration's claims were enough to 'frighten' the new Editor into cancelling my column. The fact the Primary election was around the corner had everything to do with it.

Lake Sammamish neighbors storm City Hall about "view corridors".

In the last two weeks over 40 citizens living along the west bank of Lake Sammamish have approached the Planning Commission to be heard about the proposed Shoreline Master Plan update and View Point Neighborhood plan. THEY ARE NOT HAPPY!

"View corridors" 30% of lot-width are proposed to allow the passing public views to the lake. It limits the height of new construction and would necessitate falling older trees. Mostly, the residents complained about poor public notice. They felt the Administration was trying to push this through to limit citizen input. What do you think?

Many West Lake Sammamish residents argued eloquently for their 5th Amendment rights protecting private property owners from "taking" their land without just compensation. The Shoreline Master Plan HERE requires review by a state regulatory agency, the Department of Ecology.

The story is still unfolding. Ongoing developments can be found on the commission's & candidate video archive HERE and on RCTV-21 at Wednesday on 7pm commission meetings. Mail your comments to planningcommission@redmond.gov

Some of this issue is about is BUFFERS. We create buffers to protect our steams, wetlands, lakes, flood zones, and hazardous slopes. The Shoreline Act and city administration want to mitigate the buffers from the regional traffic on W. LK. Sammamish Parkway. Residents of the West Lake Sammamish Association (WLSA) say they need the buffers to protect the slopes from erosion, protect the lake wate r quality, buffer from traffic noise, and bicycle safety...and most of all, protect their property rights.

This is an interesting twist. Lake residents are the custodians of the lake. They care for it. They live in a natural habitat that's protected by buffers now threatened by government regulation.

According to a citizen, it is RUMORED that the view corridor must be granted to the City of Redmond as an easement and there is no plan for compensation to the property owner. Vegetation would have to be cleared and the view maintained by the property owner. Most lots in this segment of shoreline are valued in excess of $1m each, taking 30% of that property and converting it to public use with the property owner responsible for maintenance is a huge imposition on private property rights.

Sidebar: If a Redmond resident had to vote for Mayor just on this one issue would he/she choose Marchione or Robinson? Robinson lives in the View Point neighborhood but he has voted down buffers in the past. At the Critical Area Ordinance Public Hearing of 5/17/2005, Jim Robinson motioned to amend the Critical Area ordinance "to retain the existing [small] buffers". The motion died for a lack of a second. Trees help to buffer street noise and anchor slopes from erosion and filter run-off along the Lake Sammamish shoreline.

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

FROM: KIM ALLEN:

Bob - Just a reminder of what happened at the meeting you mention above. "Robert S. Yoder, 10019 169 Avenue NE, asked the Council to designate riparian habitat as a Habitat of Local Importance, since Redmond is a green city, with lakes, rivers and streams with fish and wildlife. He said the habitat protects against erosion and protects water quality.Councilmember Robinson suggested that the Council consider including the term “Riparian Habitat of Local Importance” in the Definitions section of the Critical Areas Ordinance."Minutes of 5/17/05 Council meeting, pp.198-200.As to the final vote on the Shoreline Plan, including the buffers, here was the final vote:"Ordinance No. 2259, adopting Findings of Fact, amending the Natural Environment Element of the Redmond Comprehensive Plan in order to update the city’s goals and policies relating to critical areas, adding and amending various definitions in Chapter 20A.20 of the Redmond Community Development Guide relating to critical areas, amending Chapter 20D.140 of the Redmond Community Development Guide in order to update the city’s critical areas regulations and incorporate the Best Available Science, providing for severability and establishing an effective date, was presented and read.Upon a poll of the Council, Cole, Marchione, McCormick, Paine, Resha, Robinson, and Vache voted aye. Motion carried unanimously (7 – 0)."5/17/05 Council meeting minutes p.200
Sunday October 14, 2007

FROM BOB YODER

10/14Hi Kim - In friendly response to your above comments. 1) Robinson suggesting Riparian HOLI be relegated in the CAO solely as definition, is almost an insult, though it was one crumb more than the rest. A definition is far from a symbolic gesture. Nancy McCormmick's suggestion during the same public hearing that the Planning Commission vet the issuance of a proclaimation that Riparian be our Habitat of Local Importance. Riparian is truly proving to be one of our cities most valuable habitats for monitoring our water quality. It's just very unfortunate that Mr. Robinson was the only counclmember motioning to reduce riparian zones from the CAO plan. Yes, of course all candidates voted FOR the new Critical Area Ordinance. Wouldn't it be nice if council voting records were duly recorded for easy access by the public...tabulated on a spreadsheet. Unfortunately, the Administration hasn't provided this critical assessment service. Finally, Kim, I want to thank you again for the tremendous support you gave me during my presentations for Riparian HOLI. Unfortunately, the administration wrote a C.3 report to council killing this wonderful idea which had potential to attract many citizens and students into the process of sustaining our natural resources and environment. Regards,Bob

10/06, Reason & Purpose for the Blog

10/14/06 MY 1st REASON AND PURPOSE FOR THIS BLOG

The photo is of our city kiosk located on Leary & Redmond Way. With the exception of the Historical Society Walking Tours, our kiosk is a dormant monument to our past, our Parks, and our Art culture. I suggest the people of the City of Redmond consider 'Technology' a Third Pillar of Redmond culture. The following article proposes greater utilization of our city web site, "Electronic Kiosks" and other interactivity tools to advance our city and culture.

Presently, our boards, commissioners, council and mayor operate within a limiting environment...somewhat of a vacuum...and they just don't really know how we feel. Our city council truly wants to hear from us. We have opportunities to be responsible to them and make Redmond a better place to live.

To be frank, citizen input and engagement in government and cultural processes of late has been mostly filtered and mitigated with "one-way communication." As a result, the Mayor and Council and commissioners converse and make decisions while Redmond citizens "stand by" in hibernation (waiting to be re-booted by the next election).

In 'yesterday's past', policy of the Administration has been to a large extent to control and direct public opinion to meet the needs on the city's agenda and the perceived needs of the community; not necessarily ours! Without open avenues and portals for citizen participation Redmond is becoming a bland, slumbering community. We can do better! Just consider how rich is the fabric of our citizenry and grand our latent human resources!

"Redmond Reporter's" inconsistent Op-Ed policy have left us regurgitating and out of the picture. [UPDATE, 2/2007: The new REDMOND REPORTER, under Editor John Huether is already bringing transparency and focus on Redmond issues] Worse, the administration , council, and commissioners have little idea of where WE are on city issues despite sincere desires and attempts to reach out to us. Case in point is the levy lid-lift defeat. The Administration and Council were surely nonplussed and startled by the public's 60-40 defeat of the levy lid-lift measure. We all now understand the disconnect.

Other than the few "relentless vocals" we've never had an ongoing "say" or convenient, ongoing media mechanisms (soap box) to voice our needs of: 1) how do we fund the programs and services we want? 2) where should our tax dollars go? and 3) what do we think about city management and policy-making performance? The Mayor, Council council@redmond.gov and commissioners have their RC-21 TV "router" yet the city still hasn't implemented interactive technologies to plug "us" in! I beg our city's Chief Administrative Officer, CEO, and elected official & politician & mayor aka Rosemarie will soon understand the gravity and take a few of the following actions:

1) improve transparency in council, planning, and development policy-making, UPDATE: Parks Dept. proposed levy 1-page summary offers simplicity and transparency to the public! [TAG parks-commission to find it] We need a similar pro forma summary for Police & Fire! 5/2/07
2) improve our city web site http://www.redmond.gov%20%20and%20content%20for%20online%20%20rc-tv;%20%20%20/9/2/7. ON DEMAND RCTV archived meetings provided on city website now!!!
3) encourage & facilitate greater utilization of our city web site, community email groups, and elected & candidate issues position blogs. UPDATE: several candidates are blogging, most have web sites, 9/1/07
4) recruit student web volunteer interns, Student youth used heavily by the Parks Dept. to market Prop. 2. Still no youth working in city IP dept for data entry, etc.
5) encourage and facilitate citizen, candidate and community blogging ,
6) implement citizen-government interactivity mechanisms and tools e.g. electronic surveys, real time emails, online public hearing proxies. UPDATE: The planning commission is keeping public meetings open for email comments & Korby Parnell, planning commissioner is using an electronic tablet notebook during meetings - to save paper. 5/2/07. 8/1 - now he's using paper again.
7) encourage our local paper & FOCUS magazine to publish a consistent and reliable "Letters to the Editor" policy, Update : done - local paper.
8) invite a citizen a week to sit in on a council, commission, or board meetings; let citizens organize informal NEIGHBORHOOD FORUMS to encourage and engage council members and commissioner's participation in our neighborhood-issues-of-importance. IE. focus groups of concerned citizens need to meet with commissioners, key committee councilmembers and limited staff 5/19/07
9) last but not least, place "electronic kiosks" (computer posting & surveying terminals) at key gathering places around the city.
10) the above may be funded, in part, by charging fees for city online services, workshops and the like.
11) Attract, encourage, and recruit qualified candidates with a fresh perspective to prepare for the replacement of the old guard. 5/19/07

UPDATE, 9/1/07 Brian Seitz began communications months ago with me when he saw my blog. Brian is now actively running for council with a blog & website; full of technology ideas for improving government productivity.

The Council is working hard to put together a coherent budget package; unfortunately our opinions and input were thinly shared. Did you know council deliberations of the "long range strategic budget" dragged out for over 40-sessions! Ugh!... so much effort for our well-intentioned Council with so little return! The process unfortunately included the Mayor and her "strategic STAFF leadership team" who had to spend countless hours, days, and weeks away from their normal duties to educate and sell council on their needs.

Redmond is a blessed city, rich in human & natural resources and untapped potential. We can be so much more than a pleasant, safe, green-treed corporate "edge" community of neighborhoods connected by trails to lush city parks and schools. We are largely a deep and rich gathering of intelligent, entrepreneurial, diverse, creative, economically & technologically secure residents ... in slumber... resourceful, yet untapped! "Together we can make Redmond better".

Our government must continue to unpeel it's layers of fear and welcome us into a dialogue.....putting an end to the dull, incestuous monologue amongst themselves, and a very few relentless city citizens and business owners. The local newspaper Op-Ed participation is just one channel for bringing renewed vitality and vigor to our city. Implementing widely available technology media tools and marketing the government process is required to advance our culture and community.

One other citizen/city "window" long fogged by poor technological linkages and "layering" is our city website: http://www.redmond.gov/ . Considering Redmond is blessed with an abundance of citizens employed by Microsoft, Nintendo et al, Boeing, and biotechs -- some of the premier digital corporations of our nation (!) -- Redmond's non-interactive, heavily layered web site though valuable, is almost an embarrassment. Our neighborhoods, businesses, and elected & appointed citizen resources are simply not being tapped to make our city "a GREAT CITY". If you've viewed http://www.redmond.gov/ or listened to a council or committee meeting you will certainly say we can do better!

Recommendations to improve our city website have been proposed by the Planning Commission (chaired by Susan Petitpas), council member Kimberly Allen kallen@redmond.gov, and planning commissioner and Microsoft employee, Korby Parnell. The door to http://www.redmond.gov/ must open with an interactive, understandable, intuitive welcoming invitation to our neighborhoods, communities, software workers, seniors, teens, schools, special interests, businesses, international community, city staff, and on. Without the activation of our diverse citizenry city governance will remain obscured--reducing our developing neighborhood cultures to a community "employment center".

Honorable Council member Jim Robinson is cognizant and keen to the "neighborhood - employment center" didactic; I consider Jim amiable & analytical -- a visionary in most city issues. However, Jim could be more attentive on two minor issues. Mr. Robinson, on occasion 1) whines about "the same old crowd" always showing up at city Hearings, and Special Meetings while begging for new faces. My comment: What face do I wear? Also, Council and Mayor need to use and expand their “gavel to gavel” TV coverage so as to attract 'new citizens while re-energizing 'the same old crowd' . i.e. video archived meetings 2) Jim is Chair of Parks & Human Services Committee, '06 (which includes Art, I believe) yet he appears to bias his support to Parks over Arts. Arts is a Pillar of Redmond culture and deserves more.

We need Jim's leadership to help Redmond refocus our arts policy to digital venues and a 'Cleveland Street - BNSF art center 'gathering place' for residents and tourists. Redmond has technological resources far beyond most cities in the country. Our technology resources could transform our culture ultimately giving Redmond regional, if not, national recognition.