What business operated for 47 years before being replaced by Willows Run Golf Course?

Vegetable Farming in 1921 before Golfing at Willows Run

- excerpt from the Redmond Historical Society Newsletter, Miguel Llanos, Editor

The Willows Run Golf Course now dominates the Sammamish Valley area near downtown, but back in the old days the Aries family’s produce farm was the center of attraction.

Redmond Historical Society President Pro Tem Judy Aries Lang was born into that Italian family as was her sister Angela – and both pulled a few carrots and worked in the packing shed at Aries Gardens.

On Saturday, Nov. 8, from 10.30-noon at the Old Redmond Schoolhouse Community Center, the sisters will take folks on a slideshow and video tour. All are welcome.

“The farm started with three partners in 1921 and 6 acres,” Judy recalls. “By 1928, it had 9 partners and 87 acres and was the largest in the valley, according to the East Side Journal. In 1930, they employed about 80 farm hands at the busiest time.”

“Head lettuce was the biggest crop, with half the acreage planted in lettuce,” Judy adds, “but over the years they also grew carrots, cabbage, cauliflower, beets, turnips, spinach, potatoes and pumpkins.”

The farm closed in 1968 with an equipment auction, of which a video was made, part of which will be shown at the meeting. “All the big veggie farms folded around this time,” Judy says. “An end to the era of truck farming in the valley.”

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With assistance from my neighbor, Richard Morris, The Redmond Historical Society has created a new Web site -- with a new address: redmondhistoricalsociety.org. Check it out!

Here’s a sample of what you’ll find: 1) Past newsletters to 2001, 2)Select biographies
3) List of items we sell (great holiday gift ideas!) 4) Upcoming heritage events
5) Video clips (e.g. Derby Days; and one of the last trains through town)

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

Running with Dogs -- Ashford Trail

Contributed by Richard Morris
Here is how the city of Redmond describes Ashford Trail 1/4 mile: Soft surface equestrian and hiking trail linking Hartman Park with Avondale Road through the Ashford Park development along 180 Ave NE.
Ashford Trail has historical roots. This short trail follows alongside Perrigo Creek, which begins at the top of Education Hill, and ends when it joins Bear Creek. Perrigo Springs, long ago, served as the source of water for Redmond. The pioneer-day Perrigo Farm on top of Education Hill used water from Perrigo Springs.

Naomi Hardy, Redmond Historical Society, contributed this bit of history: "The little Perrigo Springs was purchased by the Redmond Water Department in 1914 and was the first water supply for the newly incorporated town of Redmond. A dam was originally constructed to impound the water for storage, with the transmission main a 4” to 8” wood stave pipe. This site was Redmond’s only water supply until 1927 and served as a major source of supply until 1962. Currently the spring is still there, trickling through a small, forested valley, past the city’s Perrigo Springs Reservoir and makes its way to Bear Creek. There is a wide trail near the spring that goes up Education Hill. Hikers and school kids and the curious use this trail".
Near the reservoir is a commemorative tree and plaque marking this historic water source. You can read more about historic Perrigo Springs on a previous post

Ashford Trail before it was widened and graveled by the City

You can enter the Ashford Trail from Avondale at 180th Ave. This is the entrace to Ashford Park, a condominium community in Redmond. Just drive (or bike) up 180th Ave, until the road ends. There is a water tower (recently renovated by the Water Department) and an old concrete dam across Perrigo Creek. A camera was installed at the top of the water tower to record people who might damage the marker and Corkscrew Willow tree.  See a map of this area.

Richard Morris with Saddie

You can also enter the Ashford Trail from the top of Education Hill where NE100th St ends at 171st Ave NE. The first 1/2 mile walk is flat, then the trail sharply descends to the water tower and becomes 180th Ave NE. If this steep trail looks to difficult, you can cross over Perrigo Creek and enter the "back side" of Hartman Park. This short connector trail comes out on 176th Ave NE (King County Swimming pool is located at the end of this street).

If you are adventurous, and like a hiking challenge, walk down Avondale (south towards Redmond Town Center), until you reach NE 88th PL . Go the end of the road, and you will find a trail leading up Education Hill. You can climb back up the hill (very steep) and the trail comes out at Nike Park. My companion dog, Sadie, is good at scrambling up the steep slope, but it is slow climb for me to find my footing on the loose forest soil.
Richard Morris, co-author, Education Hill neighborhood

East Redmond Park & Trail Corridor Plan

Eastern Corridor Park Property Master Plan - "String of Pearls"

The City of Redmond Parks and Recreation recently held its first of two community workshops on our Eastern Corridor of parks and trails. Linkage of five creek-lined, parks with trails and ideas for "best uses" were discussed. Parks planner, Linda Frkuska facilitated the meeting stating: "This collection of Parks is a tremendous asset to Redmond and we want to make sure we are shaping them for the people that will use and enjoy them.". The Eastern Corridor parks, from north to south, are Juel Community Park, Ferrel-McWhirter, Conrad Olson, Perrigo and Arthur Johnson. Approximately 20 citizens attended, including councilmembers Nancy McCormick and briefly, Hank Margeson. Hank was past Vice-chair of the Parks Commission. Hank's family enjoys the Pony Club at Ferrel-McWhirter and soccer fields at Perrigo. Three citizen interest groups were noticeably present:

• Equestrian interests - horse trails at Juel and Perrigo; preference for soft trails; a covered arena at Farrel-McWhirter; signage to warn mountain bikers near the Avondale-PS trail.
• Bear and Evans Creek natural area interests - pervious, narrower trails; attention to the preserving the natural environment; environmental education; trail location & best use.
• Sports interests - Cricket use of Juel Park. Disc golf at Juel. Mountain biking clubs did not attend.

Guy Mikelson, a Seattle consultant of Berger Partnership, led discussion by suggesting three themes for the eastern corridor: 1) history, 2) environmental, 3) "linear arboretum" . Bear and Evans Creek riparian habitat touches all five parks and is the signature piece connecting all parks. Historical buildings add interest and possible uses by "artists in residence" and heritage exhibits.

Miguel Llanos, Redmond Historical Vice President, recommended signage along the future connecting trail to explain the area’s natural (salmon and other wildlife) and human (Native Americans, loggers, farmers) heritage. He suggested the historic Conrad Olsen barn, Juel house and Perrigo Park barn as possible locations for heritage displays and a quasi-museum.

Citizens having interests in using this corridor should contact the Parks Commission or a staff. A final meeting will be held on Thursday, June 5th, 7pm, Old Redmond School House Community Center. Public is invited.  

-- Bob Yoder & Richard Morris, Education Hill neighborhood

Walk In The Park -- Marymoor

If you are interested in soccer, baseball, cricket, flying, regional trails, the largest off-leash dog area in the state, a velodrome, climbing rock, rowing, birding, King County’s cultural heritage, gardening, a family picnic, concerts, or movies, Marymoor Park is the place for you!

Of course my favorite activity at Marymoor Park is visiting the 40-acre off-leash dog park. My companion dog, Sadie, knows this as "doggie disneyland". On a sunny weekend, hundreds of dog lovers will gather in the off-leash dog park to share "dog stories". And of course, folks can buy a favorite gourmet coffee beverage and a doggie treat from my friend at Cara Mia -- a bright green mobile espresso cafe.

The off-leash dog park is well maintained by King County and S.O.D.A. volunteers.
S.O.D.A. is a non-profit organization formed to provide on going support and stewardship for the Off-Leash dog exercising areas at Marymoor Park in Redmond, Washington and Grandview Park in SeaTac, Washington.

Marymoor Park is so popular, it has its own website and includes a MSN Wi-Fi service. Last year, I heard an outdoor concert at the amphi-theatre at Marymoor. Los Lonely Boys rocked the park!

Our twin daughters took us to see Cirque du Solei at Marymoor, 2 years ago. In May 2006 our daughter Allison was pregnant, so the event staffers let us park right up close to the entry gate. A week later our first grandson, Conor, was born! I read in the Redmond Reporter that the international sensation returns to Redmond April 24- May 25.

Some eight years ago, we attended WOMAD (World of Music, Arts & Dance sponsored by Peter Gabriel) at Marymoor. We discovered a superstar world-music band called Afro Celt Sound System. We also heard Ravi Shankar and his students, performing traditional Indian Classical music. My wife especially enjoyed the drum grotto, where we found a community of drummers.

In 1990, the Goodwill Games, held a bicycle race at the Velodrome located at Marymoor. This was very exciting to watch, as the international racers pedal really, really fast.

Marymoor Park is the gateway to the regional trail that follows the Sammamish River north to Bothell, where the trail continues around Lake Washington, and ends at Gas Works Park, on the northern shore of Lake Union.

Friends of Marymoor Park
Marymoor Velodrome Association
Washington State Bicycle Association

Richard Morris, co-author

Ed. Hill Neighborhood

A Walk in the Park

Howdy Neighbors, Bob Yoder asked me if I might contribute a few blog posts. Before I realized my commitment, I said, "yes!" My topic is about Redmond Parks and Trails. I am a regular user of Parks and Trails, so this should be an easy task for me.

Let me begin with Hartman Park. If you are new to Redmond, you may not have discovered this jewel yet. Hartman Park is located across the street from the Redmond High School at the top of Education Hill. The park is home to a King County swimming facility and 5 baseball fields. This is the home field of Redmond North Little League.

In 2004, Redmond North Little League won the Northwest region and participated in the Little League World Series in South Williamsport, PA. With Redmond North claiming the Northwest, it is the third team from Washington to claim the Northwest since its inception in 2001. Previous Washington champions were Bainbridge Island (2001), Richland (2003).

I walk thru the park virtually everyday with my companion dog, Sadie. Spring weather is showing color now in the park. The flowering plum trees are on display, and most trees are showing new green! Spring is a time of natural renewal, and plenty of outdoor activity.

I like this neighborhood park, and really enjoy watching the baseball games, and soccer games on the newer "turf" field. There is plenty of activity beginning in the spring, and that continues through the summer. In the summer, when my home windows are open for ventilation, I can easily hear all the baseball fans screaming, "go Johnny, go Johnny!"

My favorite area of the park is the wooded trail that meanders through a forest of cedars. It is walking in the woods that I feel grounded. Sadie likes to run freely on the trail. It is pure joy when she leaps to action and gives chase to a wild rabbit. We walked the park trail today in the rain. I got fairly wet from head to toe, yet the air is clean and fresh. My shoes got wet too, but they usually dry out overnight, for the next walk in Hartman Park.

Richard Morris

Education Hill neighborhood

Co-author

The Urgency of protecting our fragile water supply

The Groundwater Monitoring Improvement Agreement (PDF) was quietly and quickly -- almost surreptitiously-- approved during the "Consent Agenda" of Council's 10/2 meeting. Council never openly discussed the agreement nor were study sessions held on this urgent matter. About a month ago Council listened to a powerpoint Wellhead Protection Program Update from our city geologist about the "state of our *wellheads". When he showed how two drops of a contaminate could pollute ALL the water in Redmond pool he had my attention. So far, the city has removed contaminated soil equivalent to three City Halls.

This $331,000 ground water monitoring enhancement agreement was is so important and urgent that time constraints were given by staff's. Staff advised that passage was needed right away to complete 90% of the project by March 2008.

The project involves hiring GeoEngineers consultants to drill a network of 26 monitoring wells in our critical, shallow aquifer recharge area to:

• track the movement of groundwater
• track contaminant plumes
• monitor clean-up efforts
• evaluate the effectiveness of the hazardous materials management processes
• enable the City to make better policy decision regarding pollution prevention and groundwater protection.

The mission of this project is a wake-up call! Our underground drinking water supply is extremely fragile and vulnerable to ongoing contamination. In my final Redmond Reporter Citizen Watch column I brought attention to the vulnerability of our well water and the importance of the Cascade Water Alliance and conservation. Fortunately, Councilman John Marchione sits of the Cascade Water Alliance Board so the City has regional voice in planning our water supply for future generations. While interviewing Councilman Jim Robinson for Mayor, Jim told me unequivocally, nothing was wrong with our aquifer. I asked him again. Yes, no problem. ....hmmm....does citizen awareness and openness fit in someplace here?

My Citizen Watch water supply article and other columns I wrote for the community were well received, but the Administration didn't like my shedding light into their corners of government. So, the Administration's community- initiative-public-relations manager issued Advisory action to remove my column. (Since then Redmond Reporter "Letters to the Editor" have been reduced to a trickle -- and this, during a Mayoral election!

NOTE, an aquifer atrocity: A couple of years ago, I and a neighbor, Richard Morris, discovered septic and grease contaminants on Evans Creek bank in SE industrial Redmond. A year later we blew the whistle on a business that required 11 *regulatory agencies to "swoop down" and enforce emergency hazardous waste controls. It was ugly.

The Administration's PR staff (of 8) insisted that all groundwater monitoring controls were in place prior to our discovery of this natural resource atrocity. No doubt our "citizen watch" waved enough red flags to move the City forward in their July 17 update of our Wellhead Protection Program.

After the July 17 Council meeting, Mayor Ives told me my Reporter water supply column was "very good". She had only one concern and that was my urging citizens to ask city officials for a water conservation program. It was my opinion we needed a bonafide program. So far, all I've found in our water conservation program are: free Cascade Water shower heads, RCTV reader board plugs, and FOCUS ad. After my column, the city placed an ad and write-up in FOCUS , ramped up RCTV plugs and the Reporter posted several PSA's. Staff now tells me a new, quantitative water conservation program will be reviewed by Council soon. You'll hear about it here.

** Five shallow wells located east of the Sammamish River supply Redmond with 3.5 to 5 million gallons of water/day or about 40% of Redmond's drinking water. According to the City report of 10/2/07 C.3 "these five wells...are highly susceptible to contamination..."

* regulatory agencies at SE Redmond hazardous waste site were: - EPA, DNR county/city, County Health Dept.,Puget Sound Clean Air, Fire Marshal, Code Enforcement, Wellhead Protection Officer, Department of Ecology.

10/25, Restored: Historic Perrigo Springs Marker & Willow

For many months, Redmond Public Works construction projects adjacent to historic Perrigo Springs have negatively impacted the commemorative "marker" and Willow. (see earlier blogs). Public Works contractors finally cleaned up the site but left crushed rock under the tree.

Recently, friends of Perrigo Woodlands & the Historical Society restored the site. Crushed rock on top of the marker and tree was raked back and fresh bark was spread. Litter was removed. (The original RHS installation is pictured on left.)

For over 2000 years, the peaceful Snoqualmie (Sqwak) Indians camped near this Spring and foraged Bear Creek for salmon, mussels and berries. Early pioneers were attracted to the spring and it was the city's first water supply. Hartman wetlands and the surrounding woodlands makes up the watershed supplying this spring. It still rises up today from seasonally dry Perrigo Creek. Naomi Hardy, co-founder of the Redmond Historical Society found the rock marker nearby and in 2004 a ceremony was held commemorating the site.

A neighbor and trail runner, Richard Morris, took this photo. He reports the commemorative tree is a "Corkscrew Willow". It will grow 20-30 feet high and up to 25 feet wide with adequate water. The young branches grow in a spiral, twisting fashion. I remember, in the winter storm of 2006 one of our friend's huge Corkscrew Willow in their front yard was uprooted.

UPDATED: Almost EVERYONE WINS! - Redevelopment of the Keller Farm, 9/3/07

UPDATED on 4/18/13.   It's my understanding the wetland bank program has been delayed for 5 years.  I don't know the details, but you could contact the city council ombudsman at council@redmond.gov for an explanation. 

OPINION:  My friend and neighbor, Richard Morris, wrote a "guest" blog a few months ago about new developments at historic Keller Farm near Avondale and Union Hill road. Recently, the planning commission has been holding public meetings on the project. The commission graciously left their meeting open for "comment". If you have something to say for the record, you may still comment (as of 8/5/07) to the planningcommission@redmond.gov

If ever there was a WIN-WIN land-use & re-zone project in Redmond THIS is it!
Below is an assessment of community needs that will be satisfied by the Aegis Living - Keller Farm development.

1. Mr. Keller, owner of historic Keller Dairy Farm and now pumpkin farm has agreed to sell his land to a developer, but the low density residential zoning and Critical Area characteristics impeded progress and land values.
2. The City classified much of Keller's land as protected, "critical areas" -- 1) recharge zone for maintaining our well water supply, 2) and hazardous flood zone, 3) riparian and fish & wildlife Protection Area; and wetland making re-zoning and development difficult.
3. Aegis Living retirement company sought a premium location to attract and service their retirement clientele and obtain a location close to their corporate headquarters.
4. The long-time landowners with grandfathered 25 foot buffers on Evans Creek want to increase the value of their land so that SE Redmond can be redeveloped. Evans Creek is a salmon bearing, straight channel with little or no riparian habitat or buffers.
5. Perrigo Creek is taking on higher concentrations of stormwater run-off from new developments (Perrigo Heights, 180 Ave, and SR 520) presenting negative impacts to priority Bear Creek habitat.
6. Environmentalists (Muckelshoot Indian Tribe, WaterTenders, community activists) want to protect priority open space, habitat, and species.
7. Redmond Historical Society and residents want to preserve our heritage and our view corridors.
8. Congested traffic needs to be mitigated on Avondale Road during redevelopment of the corridor.
9. 5000 senior citizens 65 years and older live within a 3 mile radius of Keller Farm and will need retirement accommodations and care.
10. Affordable housing is scarce for residents and workers in Redmond.
11. Wetland mitigation banks are needed in Redmond to facilitate growth.

How the above needs will be satisfied (in sequence):

1. The residential and agricultural zoning of Keller Farm will be amended to "Bear Creek District" allowing Mr. Keller to sell his 126 acre farm for a good return to Aegis Health Care (8.8 acres) and a "wetland bank" entrepreneur ((117 acres).
2. A "wetland bank" is created in partnership with the the city and Aegis. The bank allows the city to protect their valuable recharge wellhead protection zone, protected riparian habitat and species, priority flood zone & wetlands. Susan Wilkins stated our 1998 FEMA Flood Map was dated. Kim Richardson had concerns about pesticides.
3. Aegis Living, website here, will build a state-of-art retirement complex next to their corporate headquarters. Assisted living with focus on memory care will be provided. Alzheimer's is expected to grow by 10-fold by 2050. 1 in 5 citizens will be over 65 by 2030, according to Brain Poge of Aegis.
4. An easement is created in the wetland bank to allow for re-routing & meandering of Evans Creek away from SE Redmond businesses. Riparian habitat will be restored and creekside resident land value will increase stimulating redevelopment of SE Redmond.
5. Perrigo Creek currently runs underground 1000 feet in a pipe along Avondale. It will be "daylighted" to a swale (grassed ditch), the stream water -- oxygenated, filtered and re-routed away from Avondale wastewater before draining into Bear Creek - improving stormwater treatment and Bear Creek water quality.
6. The wetland bank will be used mostly for wetlands paved over by roads, high schools, and trails and will not replace on-site mitigation. Victor Woodlasnd, wetland banker partner, has a 10 year commitment to restore banked units. Within 20-years the wetland bank will be endowed in perpetuity to the Cascade Land Conservancy. The wetland bank will be restored with trees and shrubs native to wetlands. Man-made ditches will be removed. Trails should be pervious (Dick Schaetzel) and secondary to the flow of the creeks (Ed Schein). Bear Creek is a channel. Off channel rearing of fish is superior and more likely after restoration. (Bill Shields).
7. Aegis Living residents do most of their driving during off-peak hours so they are a good business for busy Avondale Road.
8. 10% of the units will be set aside for affordable housing for workers and possibly residents.

What appears to be "unfinished business" or issues of concern are, as follows:

• "Avondale Green Homeowners Association" is not opposed but they want a 2nd exit onto Avondale and a U-turn for safety.
• a small triangular neighborhood next to Aegis is unhappy with the Aegis Road going next to their neighborhood.
• Susan Wilkins duly noted concerns about our dated 1998 FEMA Flood map. Staffers agreed that mapping work needed to be done. Susan presented photos of the proposed Aegis tennis courts in the 1998 flood plain.
• Jill Richardson had duly noted concerns about pesticides.

The wetland bank is highly regulated, but the City of Redmond has final say via permitting and the debit side of banking. The Dept. of Ecology and Army Corps of Engineers are next in line. The EPA has some jurisdiction, as well. City Environmental planner, Cathy Beam, and Planner Jeff Churchill worked hard on this project and did a great job.

Project review and rezone are almost finalized. The Department of Ecology will consider a Public Hearing - by request only.

** The photograph above is of cow pasture along Bear Creek. It may be Keller Farm. This photo is on the front cover of Redmond Historical Society's new soft-cover titled "Redmond Reflections - from settlers to software", written by Naomi Hardy. To order write redmondhistory@hotmail.com.
Redmond City Technical Report of the Aegis project is HERE

FACTOIDS - a 225 acre wetland in Duval was the first wetland banking site in WA. Washington State Dept. of Transportation (WSDOT) owns 5 wetland banks. Two banks are in Skagit county and one in Eastern Washington. >> wetland banks are booming across the country but are limited in Washington State by stronger regulations.

Planning commission's final recommendations to Council of 9/28/07: http://www.redmond.gov/insidecityhall/citycouncil/CurrentAgenda.asp

8/25, "Race for Mayor" Reporter article reviewed

Today's Redmond Reporter "Race for Mayor" article by Mary Decker provoked me to express some thoughts I have for the candidates and for Ms. Decker's reporting.

In general, I found Ms. Decker's reporting balanced and fair. She gave the front page color photos to the finalists - Marchione and Robinson; with the larger front page photo of "first-place winner" John Marchione hugging his child with a warm smile on election night. I felt this photo made up for the less expressive one taken by the Reporter prior to the Primary.

Some key points reported by Decker and paraphrased (in color) worth repeating and my comments, as follows:

JOHN MARCHIONE -

• most voters favored Marchione's message of "living within your means - households have to stick to a budget, so why not the city? I absolutely agree on that one. Just look at what's happening to the mortgage markets today from all those easy, 0-down loans!
  
• most voters approved of Marchione's proactive plan to keep more density in the Overlake and downtown areas. Yes, I agree! and said so at recent city council meeting. Hopefully, our chances to preserve some of the open space we enjoy in the neighborhoods will increase by focusing density downtown.
  
• Mr. Marchione is concerned about Robinson's idea of raising business taxes. John thinks that if businesses get driven out by higher taxes the residential property taxes may be raised to make up the difference. Holly Plackett also had no intentions to raise business taxes.
  
• Marchione continued to emphasize the need for a transparent budget with the community knowing where the money is going. hear! hear! Read my blog ON "THE SHELL GAME" (Tag "aaa") describing how the city shifts operating funds and capital funds back & forth at will, frequently for political purposes.
  
• Mr. Marchione emphasized being proactive in managing land use, growth, and housing choices. GOOD! Zoning Amendments need to be done with thought and scrutiny so as not to create further "Perrigo Heights" and "Tyler Creek" zoning oversights. The Development Guide needs to be updated to eliminate the scores of "Exceptions" to land-use approval and unrestrained PRD uses affecting neighboring communities. Holly brought some of these ideas out , as well.
  
• Marchione promotes a more active and lively downtown with dining, etc. Yes! I'd like to see some sidewalk cafe's and book stores and an cooperative art gallery and jazz restaurant.

JIM ROBINSON -

• Jim's central campaign platform is "do you want a hometown or simply an employment center? This tagline brings to attention the growing influx of workers who work in Redmond but don't live here. (I think we have a resident population of 50,000 with another 30,000 commuting to Redmond for work everyday.) So what's the answer to this plateform statement? Quite simple: by building more dwelling units and homes more commuters become residents and our "hometown" will grow. The fact is we have to grow to meet Growth Mangaement requirements. A fallacy is to believe our "hometown" won't change. It's already morphed from horse farms to suburbia & according to the Planning Commisssion (apointed by Ives) will evenually grow to an urban mass-transit center with 6-12 story buildings.
  
• Mr. Robinson attributes much of the traffic and congestion to commuters and a need to lessen it around Education Hill and around town. True! No doubt the commuters add to congestion. Unfortunately, even if you build homes to mitigate commuter traffic (and build our hometown) the traffic will still run through our neighborhoods and congestion will only get worse on Education Hill and around town.
  
• Robinson "sticks to his belief that public safety should have been funded as a priority all along while reserving Levy lifts for road infrastructure and other things". I agree with Jim, as do Marchione and Plackett. But, it seems it's been a standard of practice over the years to put safety out for levy vote. Mr. Robinson's been been a councilman for 16 years. Why haven''t we been able to improve our funding priorities for safety by now?
  
• Robinson associates citizen concern over our environment with the severe weather we've had in December and our lack of control over it. I think the Public Works Dept. has done an excellent job planting native shrubs and trees along river and stream areas--these shrubs help to reduce stormwater flows and preserve habitat and water quality. Jim is Council Chair of Parks. I'd like to see our Chair encourage the Parks Dept. and Police Dept. to pick up and remove their Proposition signs....to help our environment. To "take control" of our climate extremes citizens need to know where the young, old, and disabled can go to find a city shelter.
  
• Jim's supporters are pleased with the idea of updating Hartman Pool. Sure, it's a good idea. I love to swim. It's great excercise and soft on the joints.
  
• Robinson stresses "sustainability". The levy propositions are short term solutions when considering inflation is 5-6%. Jim proposes sit-down sessions and discussions to sort it all out and re-balance the revenues.

HOLLY PLACKETT -

• Saddened by the loss but vows to stay involved.
  
• Will keep working on behalf of the Family Resource Center
  
• and work for Grass Lawn neighborhood
  
• and work with Council to advocate for other HOA's
  
• concerns about Costco impacts to SE neighborhoods.
  
• and she's actively following the campaigns to ensure a robust democratic process during the election.

/> Hey! another neighbor just posted a comment. Press "Comments" below


HOLLY PLACKETT -

Saddened by the loss but vows to stay involved.
Will keep working on behalf of the Family Resource Center
and work for Grass Lawn neighborhood
and work with Council to advocate for other HOA's
concerns about Costco impacts to SE neighborhoods.
and she's actively following the campaigns to ensure a robust democratic process during the election.


BOB THEA:
I have to say, I’m glad it(voter turnout) increased, but it is still a paltry percentage of registered voters. Where is civic pride? Responsibility?Thanks for keeping us updated and informed Saturday August 25, 2007


RICHARD MORRIS:
Robinson's theme of "coming home" feels very nostalgic. There was a time, several years ago, when hot air balloons could safely land in open fields around town. No more hot air ballons.His question "do you want a hometown or an employment center?" has little to do with growth in Redmond. Redmond is currently a hometown *and* an employment center. Redmond is a thriving hometown with strong schools, churches, parks, and plenty of retail outlets. Redmond is, of course, an employment center with manufacturing, retail, and services. Redmond has seen tremendous growth in both homes and employment over the past 25 years. Growth management must accomodate both home (residential) and business needs. Each time Hwy 520 is extended, widened, and ramped more people will want to move into Redmond and work in Redmond. Is Jim Robinson proposing that a fence should be erected to keep out new residents or new businesses?

9/8/07, RHS program notes - 1930's

9/8 HISTORY PROGRAM NOTES on a Redmond 1930's family

I came across this brass "Perrigo Road" sign today when taking pictures of 4 towering firs that were being cut down at the Methodist Church (for safety). I'm not quite sure how the Administration came up with idea to 'rename' this road. The sign looks large in the photo but it's really hard to see. It's banded to a light post. Can you guess where this road is?
Warren Perrigo staked his claim in 1871 at the north end of Lake Sammamish and was one of the first white men to live in "Redmond". He and Matilda Perrigo had 11 children.
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The Redmond Historical Society (RHS) met on Saturday, September 8, 2007, 10:30 a.m. to noon, Redmond Library, 15990 NE 85 Street, Redmond, WA.

Duniel and Sylvia Murillo and daughter shared stories and pictures of Redmond’s Filipino families, from the early 1930s and now.

9/8 MEETING OBSERATIONS - The RHS had a good turnout again, filling up the Library conference with standing room only. It was time for annual membership dues - $20/year and past mayor Chris Himes was registering new member, selling Brad Solomon's CD "Redmond Views from History". Andy McClung, reference librarian gave a talk about the library's city book club event "One Book, One Redmond, One Summer". The book is "The Work of Wolves" by Kent Meyers. Contact Andy at andrewm@kcls.org for information.

I was thrilled to meet Chris "Hurricaine" Himes. When I mentioned The "Seattle Times" had an article on Mayor Ives and called her "Hurricaine" Ives, Chris reacted saying that was HER nickname. She confirmed that she wrote the Development Guide - over 20 years ago (?) the city is still using! No wonder we need a new version! On growth issues, I told her if you can beat 'em you may as well join 'em. She smiled.

The Murillo talk and pictures were fascinating. Their farm was along Red-Wood Road near Bella Botega shopping center. Their house was about where the Red-Wood Veterinary clinic is. Hardly any other buildings or development in sight! All trees and open farm space. Mr. Murillo said water used to pond up where Bella Botega parking lot is now. -- probably a wetland? His grandfather was one of the first to take produce to the open market. There used to be a grocery store where B&B Auto is now. Will a 6-story condo replace B&B next?!
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The Historical Society Programs are very entertaining. I encourage you to come and expecially students and residents new to the area.

To receive the monthly newsletter, contact Society president Judy Lang at 425-885-2919, or email your request to mailto:miguel.llanos@msnbc.com. Books, note cards, free historic walking tour brochures, and the book, “Redmond Reflections”, are available in our office, which is open Tuesday – Thursday, 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. and Monday and Friday, 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Visit our website: http://www.redmondhistory.org/.”

FROM AN HISTORICAL SOCIETY MEMBER BELOW: "Re perrigo road sign, City and Society worked together to come up with list of honorary street signs to mark longtime families. There’s also a lampaert road sign near library and 8 or so others around town. Nao has the full list/location." m.l.
Saturday August 25, 2007


Hint: The "Perrigo Road" sign is the honorary marker for an major Avenue to Education Hill.
Saturday August 25, 2007

RICHARD MORRIS:
geez, your hint is very strong! Also, the Methodist Church is featured in your photo. So I would guess that Perrigo Road is now known as 166th Ave NE! I noticed another of these HONORARY Street Signs across from the old Elementary School, I think the modern name is 169th Ave NE, but I admit I was riding my bicycle and wasn't reading the street signs closely. I was more concerned with finding the right gears to climb up "the back way" Ed Hill.As a practical matter, what is the cost of installing HONORARY Street Signs? Is this a line item in the city budget?
Wednesday August 29, 2007

8/6/07 - Ives campaign endorsement - Where is HER record?

Dear Neighbors -

Yesterday, my neighbor showed me a campaign post card Mayor Ives mailed to selected citizens. (I was not one).

Rosemarie promotes her candidate - Mr. Robinson - as "backed by a proven voting record, not just rhetoric". It appears as if Mayor Ives is insinuating that John Marchione and Holly Plackett have don't have a proven voting record?! I don't think Ms. Ives statement is fair.

Is this an instance of Mayor Ives withholding information to her advantage? Probably...but, why? The truth is neither Robinson, Plackett or Marchione have identifiable voting records on file throughout their term in office.

Several weeks ago I asked the Administration for a tabulation of each councilmember's ongoing voting record during their term. According to the City Clerk. no such records are kept. (see below). Mayor Ives -- in standing behind Mr. Robinison -- hasn't proven a wit about her candidate's ongoing voting record or his word. What counts to voters is what the broader community thinks. For answers, try: 1) the Muni League of King County ratings and 2) recent TIMES editorial recommendations. Both pieces are posted here. Your vote counts on August 21! And, it will be tabulated!

Best regards, Bob Yoder, 8/8-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CITY CLERK:

Mr. Yoder,Thank you for your suggestion regarding the voting record spreadsheet. Currently, I am in the process of reviewing meeting management systems that will allow votes to be tallied electronically and be posted to the Redmond website in the context of the subject that they refer to. However, given constraints in the City's budget, it is unclear when such a system could be implemented.In the mean time, as you are aware, all votes are recorded in the meeting minutes for each Council meeting.

*These minutes are posted on the web for the public to view at http://www.redmond.gov/insidecityhall/citycouncil/minutes.asp.

Regards,

Malisa Files
City Clerk
City of Redmond
425.556.2190 phone
425.556.2198 fax

* archived monthy to 2005 - "hunt and peck for each vote".

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EXTRA! FOLLOW THE CANDIDATES' CONTRIBUTION MONEY HERE: http://www.pdc.wa.gov/Public/Campaign/Default.aspx

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FROM BARB THOMPSEN, Education Hill neighbor & community volunteer - "I saw some deer while out walking my dogs on Education Hill this morning. I can’t help but feel sad for them—they have nowhere to go. Which of the candidates is going to do something about saving our green spaces and stop catering to the big builders like Cam West? I am so glad that Rosemarie Ives is leaving; I’ve been saying for a long time that being in office as long as she has, results in building relationships and being influenced by them regardless of good intentions." - Barb Thompsen, Education Hill neighbor. 8/5/07

Thursday August 9, 2007 -
RICHARD MORRIS: When I attended the recent Community Meeting held July 31, Mayor Ives indicated the budget she proposed was not adopted by the Council. She said she preferred her budget, and was unhappy with the budget approved by the Council. At one point in the Community Meeting, Councilwoman Kim Allen jumped up to explain that there was a minority position on the budget. She indicated she was part of the minority. The nature of the minority position was not made clear in the Community Meeting. Council President Nancy McCormick said more than once that the Community Meeting was not about "Budget 101", however the nature of the disagreement between the Mayor and the Council is all about the budget. The disagreement is so wide, that the seeks more millions in tax revenues from property owners by means of increasing levy lids, named Proposition #1 and Proposition #2. This budget fight has brewing for a few years, as the Mayor has consistently increased city employees. On the other hand, Council members have consistently promised to hold the line on increasing taxes, staying within the State tax rates. When asked why the City spent so much money on the City Hall building, Nancy McCormick mentioned that the number of increased city employees demanded a larger building. Certainly Redmond has experienced huge growth over the past 15-20 years, yet total tax revenues for city operations would also increase. In my household budget, I must live within my earned income. Why can't the City operate within its tax revenues?

Thursday August 9, 2007 -

YODER: Many claims are vs. Marchione for his 5-2 voting "gang". Here's one that's not - Marchione voted to save Anderson Park 4-3. Jim Robinson voted against it. I hope we will start thinking of 5-2 voting or 6-1 voting as "consensus" rather than a "gang up".

Tuesday September 4, 2007 -

8/2/07 - Safety & Parks Tax Levy Propositions -Primary election

DID YOU KNOW?

Proposition #1 (Safety) & Proposition #2 (Parks)
Get ready! your absentee ballots should be in your mailbox by now! The PRIMARY is 8/21.
HOW WILL YOU VOTE?

PROPOSITION 1 - LEVY FOR PUBLIC SAFETY FUNDING:

My wife and I know how we will vote ....with only one BIG BEEF.

Nine (9) firefighters are needed for the Overlake area mostly because of poor "response times". Did you know that "response times" have increased dramatically?

Nine (9) firefighters and an aid car are needed for NORTH REDMOND. Again, response times are up to 9 minutes!

Seventeen (17) police officers are needed for school security,traffic , cybercrime patrol, computer forensics, patrol and support. According to the mayor, only 4 officers patrol the city at night.

Officer Wilson informs me two (2) "School Resource Officers" (deployed for schools) will likely be returned in the 2008-2009 school year, with passage. One fulltime SRO for the High School and one SRO split between the two Junior Highs. The limiting factors for SRO's is staffing resources and deployment of staffing. But, SRO's are "guaranteed" for the immediate future if we pass the levy.

Chief Harris states that police today is much more than traffic and patrolling. Cyberspace crime is rapidly growing and needed technology is expensive. ID theft may now be replacing car vandalism & theft as Redmond's most common crime. Methamphetamine labs and related crimes are an ongoing problem.

PROPOSITION 1 safety services will cost the average homeowner & business about $145 per year. Our levy money will be dedicated to public safety and no public official can mess with it.

PROPOSITION 2 - LEVY FOR PARKS AND RECREATION FUNDING:

Parks Director Larsen suggested at the public meeting that Redmond Parks Department is no small business. The Department maintains and develops 40 parks -- totaling 1300 acres.
Parks also runs a Recreation program with over 200,000 citizens enrolled. Registration has been up 20% over last year. 16,000 citizens attended music events in the Teen Center last year.
Despite all our "showcase parks" the department has had to turn away 100 teams last year! Cricket, lacrosse,swimming, remote planes, Frisbee golf and other sports are competing for facilities used by established and expanding baseball, soccer, tennis, and high school swimming teams.

As witnessed from the loss of Perrigo Heights Woodlands to development, Open Natural Space doesn't come cheap and our children won't have the legacy of these Woods. The department needs to preserve what natural space we have left. They've acquired over 100 acres of natural open space parkland & 4 miles of trails recently.

Juel Park, Conrad Olson Park, Arthur Johnson Park and Slough Park are historic and natural. Funds are needed to develop & maintain these parks.

Director Larsen and our commissioners need funds to manage city lands, corridors, parks, creeks, rivers and other natural systems, including removal of invasive plants.
Levy money will go towards after-school programs, stewardship of our natural areas, a new staff member and greater availability to the Teen Center.

PROPOSITION 2 will cost the average homeowner and business $21.00/year.

YOUR VOTE COUNTS! PLEASE CAST YOUR BALLOTT BY AUGUST 21 ! THANK YOU!

Here's my BEEF and KUDOS to councilwoman Kim Allen for her leadership with Council!

I, and others, ask the next Council and next Mayor to please fund our critical SAFETY needs out of the General Operating Fund as the FIRST line item.

Annually 5% of our General Funds go to the Capital Fund (CIP). KIM'S TAKE-HOME MESSAGE: Only after funding necessary SAFETY services should we move ongoing revenue into the Capital Fund.

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FROM: BOB Chamberlin, Founder of the No. Redmond Neighborhood Email Group

You will recall that the last time they tried to raise our taxes they told us that if we didn’t give them more money there would not be enough funding to build and staff the additional fire/EMS facilities that we need (specifically for North Redmond). Most of us had to wonder three things about that.

1) How is it that they had sufficient funds to build themselves a huge and very expensive new city hall,

2) where did the money come from to give city officials (most notably the Mayor) a very substantial salary increase and

3) If the number of homes in North Redmond is increasing by a factor of four, and if those homes are paying far more taxes than the previously existing homes were paying why doesn’t the city have sufficient funds to provide the basic services for those homes that are normally expected?

Our response was that we resoundingly voted down their tax increase since most of us have the attitude that they need to better manage the over-abundance of money that has already been provided.This time the Mayor is suggesting that if we don’t vote to let them raise our taxes more than the current law allows there will not be enough funds to maintain the existing level of basic services. (Note that they have the legal right to raise our taxes every year anyway and they do not need our permission to do it. They just want a lot more than that.) In my opinion, this is what local governments do when they want more money. They cut funding for what the voters want rather than the funding for what the local officials want.There are ways that costs could be reduced rather substantially but the people who manage the money prefer not to even think about those methods. Here is an example. In my opinion, the City of Redmond Planning Dept. causes more problems than it cures. If you think about it, Planners tend to Plan whether that planning is actually needed or not and many of us feel that it is not. Each member of the Planning Dept. should be required to write a justification for his/her own job. After reviewing these justifications, cut about 80% of those jobs. Personally, I plan to vote, “NO” on Proposition 1.I wish I could say something like, “throw the bums out”, but Rosemary will not be running for Mayor so she is leaving anyway. As I recall, many years ago when Rosemary first ran for Mayor it was on a “No growth or very slow growth” platform and on that basis I voted for her. We have seen what that meant. I don’t like any of the current choices very much but some are better than others and in my opinion, the best of these is Marchione. Holly Plackett is for lots of growth. Her election web site calls for bringing in a lot more businesses and a satellite campus of the UW. This would, of course come with all of the attendant traffic and additional need for infrastructure (and of course, government). Also, I can’t say that I’m very fond of some of the organizations that are endorsing her. Robinson is supported by many of the folks who are currently a big part of what I feel to be the problem so I don’t feel at all good about him either.There are people on this mailing list who previously expressed an interest in running for Mayor but I have yet to see their campaign signs. - Bob Chamberlin, 7/31
Friday August 3, 2007 - 07:42pm (PDT)

COUNCILMEMBER KIM ALLEN:
Thanks, Bob!I want to take this opportunity to remind your readers that there are very stark differences between the mayoral candidates on public safety funding. When this budget was up for a vote, Jim Robinson wanted to pay for these fire and police needs out of our existing and ongoing revenues. As mayor, he will advance that policy. John Marchione wrote the budget that sent our fire and police needs out for a property tax levy increase, which was adopted on 12/19/06 by John Marchione, Richard Cole, Pat Vache, Nancy McCormick and John Resha. John Marchione made a policy choice to reserve those ongoing funds for capital projects like City Hall instead.Jim Robinson and I are supporting Proposition 1 because the public safety need is critical and because the majority of the Council decided that this was the only funding they would agree to. It was not our first choice.Vote on August 21!Kim Allen
Saturday August 4, 2007 - 02:22pm (PDT)

RICHRD MORRIS:

Hey Bob, I attended the community meeting at the City of Redmond on Tuesday, July 31st. The meeting was not well attended. I would guess the meeting notice did not arrive in mail boxes with much advance notice. I received my post-card invitatin on Monday, July 30th. Here are a few observations:1. There was not agreement among the City Council nor the Mayor for the budget. In my opinion, this struggle has spilled over into a repackaged levy proposition. Council chair Nancy McCormick described the budget process and the input from neighborhoods. However, the budget process did not result in consensus. This point was driven home by the Mayor and minority representative Councilwoman Kim Allen.2. The levy proposition has been re-tooled, but there was little enthusiasm from the staff presentations. The mayor continues to complain in public about the past year budget cuts for her administration staff. The allocation of funding the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) was a source of disagreement.3. The Chief of Police offered no guarantees for a committed School Resource Officer. This contradicts what Bob states (above): "Officer Wilson informs me two (2) "School Resource Officers" (deployed for schools) will likely be returned in the 2008-2009 school year, with passage. One fulltime SRO for the High School and one SRO split between the two Junior Highs. The limiting factors for SRO's is staffing resources and deployment of staffing. But, SRO's are "guaranteed" for now if we pass the levy". Apparently, the wording on the ballot measure for the School Resource Officer was debated at length among City Council, the Mayor, the Superintendant of Lake Washington Schools, and PTA representatives. PTA representatives asked for quarantee for a committed SRO,however the Chief made clear that he needed flexibility in assigning resources as needed for effective operations.4. The Chief of Police described a hiring and training pipeline for new police officers. The Chief said Redmond competes with 500 other cities for hiring officers. The hiring and training pipeline can be up to 12 months. Thus, there is no quick fix to hiring and training new police officers. Naturally, the Chief needs flexibility in deploying resources for optimal effectiveness. The Chief distributed a summary of resource needs and the nature of crime fighting. 5. There were very few questions for our Parks Commissioner. However, a few comments were made about the choices for funding parks vs. funding public safety. Overall, the voters attending the meeting expressed some disbelief for the levy.6. There were a few questions about the tax bill for businesses. Councilman Pat Vache assured voters that businesses pay property taxes just like home owners. Mayor Ives explained that businesses pay a form of Business and Occupation Tax, in the form of an employee head tax. She stated the head tax is low compared to Bellevue. She also stated the head tax will be increased, as approved by City Council. My impression was that City Council was very timid for taxing businesses. However, in my opinion this approach increases the burden on city infrastructure (roads, water, sewer, stormwater, etc) without sharing the cost of maintenance. Given that the day-time population of Redmond is much greater than the night-time population, it is painfully clear that many people drive to work in Redmond. This trend is evidenced by the many extensions of Hwy 520 into Redmond over the past 30 years.Overall, the mood and tone of the community meeting was depressing to me. City Council appeared very cautious in selling this levy proposal. Mayor Ives was determined to see it through, but very dismissive of the council's budget choices. Professional staff seemed confident, but remained low key in their pitch. Mostly I had the impression that the Mayor wanted to pass the levy. Voters expressed some disbelief in the need for the levy, pointing to the new City Hall and the growth in our city tax base.
Monday August 6, 2007 - 11:52am (PDT)

YODER:

I was happy to learn the Proposition 1, Priority 1 Saftey campaign sign is recyclable. And, the Parks Proposition 2 campagin sign is recyclable. Both are made of milk carton materials and cost about $1.00 per sign, not counting labor which I think was donated by citizens or the fire/police unions.
Monday August 6, 2007

7/28/07, My 'Citizen Watch' Reporter column discontinued

The new Redmond Reporter editor from Seattle, Mr. Bill Christianson, appears to have discontinued my "Citizen Watch" column. So best not to waste your time looking for it in the paper.

I wanted you to know the new, young Editor decided not publish my "History of Redmond Mayors" column after recieving a "Press Advisory" from Kim Van Eckstrom, of City Communications. Kim (and the Mayor) complained of "errors" in my "water supply " opinion column. It was clear they were trying to discredit me. Most of my column information that Kim Van Eckstrom said was wrong was taken right off the city website -- edited by Van Eckstrom.

So far, the newspaper has been unable to set the record straight for me and has referred me to the city. Looks like the city 'owns' the paper now. Obviously, during an election politics are heightened. Such is the case. It is known that certain high-level staff members are actually campaigning for Jim Robinson. The "Press Advisory" was triggered by a blog I wrote on Jim's campaign sign "challenge" for safety. At that point, the Administration knew who I was supporting. They have also been frustrated by my blog.

The good news is I'm working with the city administration to improve the factual content on their website, (or stand behind it), encourage a comprehensive water conservation program, and improve communications with citizens who wish to participate in our government.
If you want to read any of my "Citizen Watch" columns they're all posted on the Front Page of this blog under the "MY GROUPS" , "Community ". I've also posted a detailed rebuttal to the Administration about their "Correction" claims there.

Letters to the Editor can me mailed to letters@redmond-reporter.com

Thanks for your readership!
As always,
Bob

RICHARD MORRIS - "Letter to Editor" RR
Bob Yoder’s Citizen Watch column (July 11th) apparently hit a nerve at the Redmond City Hall. I just wanted to clarify our discovery of hidden waste tanks near Evans Creek. Bob and I were doing some field research on Redmond’s Stream Map Update in October 2005. We were concerned about the classification of each stream shown on Redmond’s Stream Map. The map is used by developers to make Land Use Proposals. We discovered hidden waste tanks near Evans Creek along Union Hill Road, and inquired about the status of the tanks with the City of Redmond. After some jurisdiction discussions, King County Councilwoman Kathy Lambert and staff visited the site. The waste tanks were removed in November 2005.I have known Bob Yoder as a neighbor for over 25 years. We have worked together on many Citizen Watch projects as we are both passionate about Redmond’s natural assets. I am proud to know Bob and I can assure you that he strives to do his best to raise awareness about quality of life issues in Redmond. I encourage other readers to support Bob Yoder’s Citizen Watch column in the Redmond Reporter. The newspaper is our community forum.
Saturday July 28, 2007 - 02:00pm (PDT)

RICHARD MORRIS:
Bob, here is an interesting article on http://www.slate.com/id/2171305/fr/flyout about a journalist who is given a second chance. I thought you might find it interesting reading.If the RR gives you a second chance to write Citizen Watch, I have some ideas on how to write a bullet-proof column.I think you have found your voice, and it is effective. If no one in the city hall were reading your column, they would not have “objected to your version of facts”.I hope the RR gives you a second chance to write Citizen Watch. Your column is needed in our town.Thanks, Richard
Saturday July 28, 2007 - 02:02pm (PDT)

YODER
Thanks, Richard. After glancing at this Saturday's RR "opinion column" on trans-fats I realized we do need a respectable citizen Forum in the RR. Maybe they could take my column space and give to the candidates - "Candidate's Turn". If we could get the city to ask - especially Van Eckstrom the young editor would probably move on it. Another idea would be: "Staff's Turn". Then Bill Campbell would be able to explain the continuing Perrigo Springs mess and Kim Van Eck. could defend her "corrections" policy or explain her 16 yeaar old water conservation initiatives. So far, I haven't found them. :) Bob
Saturday July 28, 2007 - 03:12pm (PDT)

COUSIN BRUCEY
hey ho bobo great caesar's ghost kent...perry white woulda never given ya the heave ho... apparently whats news to some is disruptive to others...the squelching of opinion or commentary is a red flag for its need...so it'll be up to the regulars of this blogusphere to stand atop the hill of information you provide and cast its wisdom upon our uneducated masses... probably time to launch that write in candidacy...ey bobo.
Monday July 30, 2007 - 12:36pm (PDT)

FROM: Barb Thompson, Ed. Hill -- I just sent off an email to the Redmond Reporter complaining them about the removal of your column. I want you to know that I appreciate your “cut to the chase, tell the whole story” philosophy.8/5/07

7/17/07, A "truth" arises from the Robinson campaign - "a sign of the times?"

This is a photo of one of the busiest medians in the city -- Avondale and Redmond Way. I pity the soul who had to stake Mr. Robinson's sign on this median...and the distracted drivers.
Click on the photo to enlarge it, then read Mr. Robinson's press release, below. Does anything more need to be said?
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Press Release: Jim Robinson for Mayor of Redmond Campaign

Jim Robinson, candidate for Redmond mayor in this fall’s election, is issuing a challenge to his opponents, Holly Plackett and John Marchione, to join with him and mutually agree to forego the use of yard signs in their campaigns. Yard signs are a significant source of visual clutter and have a negative impact on our environment, both by the resources used and the litter remaining after the election season is over. In addition, the proliferation of the number of signs in recent elections, especially in the public rights of way, can create hazardous conditions for drivers. Mr. Robinson believes that preserving the natural environment in Redmond is very high on the citizens’ list of priorities and so has proposed this small but significant step toward achieving that outcome.

For more information, go to http://www.robinsonformayor.com/.

FROM MS. ALLEN:
7/17 - From Councilwoman Kim Allen - Mr. Robinson did indeed issue a challenge to the other mayoral candidates to forego signs in this mayoral race. This would require the agreement of ALL the candidates so no one could get an unfair advantage. Both John Marchione and Holly Plackett flatly refused. In light of that, Jim has placed signs but would have preferred to keep Redmond green. He is using signs that are recyclable and will remove them all in the days following the election.
Wednesday July 18, 2007 - 09:33pm (PDT)

FROM RICHARD MORRIS:
I was hoping for more discussion on the issues facing Redmond. This press release does not inspire me. For instance, what is the City of Redmond doing about reducing the use of gasoline for its fleet of vehicles? Are they planning to convert to bio-diesel?
Friday July 20, 2007 - 05:00pm (PDT)

FROM YODER:
Mr. Robinson's sign is made of recyclable milk cartons, however, it is yet to be determined if the signs can be readily recycled.
Saturday August 11, 2007 - 03:26pm (PDT)

FROM L. SNODGRASS
Jim's sign is of similar material to the Park's Proposition 1 sign. Apparently, it can be recycled but there is some work involved in removing the wood frames. The following is a note from the Park's Legacy campaign worker: "The Proposition 2 yard signs will be 100% recycled. The signs themselves are made of recyclable material -- both in the recycling collection bin and also in my husband's workshop. Weathered and damaged signs are stripped from the wood and put in the bins; and yes, the staples are also recyclable material. The wood frames/stakes will be (1) offered to other campaigns for use, (2) shared with gardeners looking for plant supports, and (3) broken down further and recycled if they are in poor condition. Nothing will be wasted nor neglected."
Tuesday September 4, 2007 - 04:13pm (PDT)

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

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

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

1) General Fund ($127M),

2) Utilities Fund ($116M),

3) Capital Fund (CIP) $216M.

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

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

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

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

CIP funds are as proliferate as breeding rabbits!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Parks Shell game 3 (continued):

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

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

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

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

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

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

Proposition 2 Ballot Title and Explanatory Statement for Parks Ballot Measure

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

Should this proposition be approved?

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

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

This levy increase would fund programs, such as:

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


• Added teen center hours and programs.


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


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

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


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


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

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