Applications will now be accepted to fill a position on the Economic Development Commission (EDC) that will become available as of the end of March.
“Promoting economic activity in Edmonds enhances our quality of life and creates jobs,” commented Mayor Mike Nelson. “Our Economic Development Commissioners provide valuable advice on many issues before the City Council, staff, and the Mayor.”

The appointed Commissioner will serve in a volunteer capacity for a term running until March 31, 2023.

The City encourages women, people of color, and other minorities to apply for service on this Commission. Citizens interested in serving on the Citizens Economic Development Commission must fill out and submit the official city application form, which may be found at this webpage:
http://edmondswa.gov/boards-commissions-committees-openings.html

Applications are due by 4:30 pm, Wednesday, 3/10/21.
Commissioners must be residents of Edmonds.

For more information, feel free to contact Economic Development and Community Services Director
Patrick Doherty at patrick.doherty@edmondswa.gov or 425-771-0251.

Deisgn Alternatives to be Presented to Residents

The City of Edmonds and its design consultant, Blueline, Inc, have been collecting user data and generating design alternatives for installation of bicycle lanes at various locations within Edmonds. The design team will be presenting this information to residents in various formats including an interactive web-based map and a public meeting to be held by video conference on Wednesday, February 24.

The interactive map and public meeting details can be accessed at the project website: bikelanes.edmondswa.gov.

The interactive project map is based on the City’s GIS platform. Anyone interested in the project can navigate to any spot and toggle the various design options to see how each one would impact accessibility and parking. Users can then submit feedback via the website to let City staff know which option they prefer and why.

City engineering staff and Blueline representatives will be on hand to answer questions and take comment from anyone with an interest in the project during a public meeting that will held on Wednesday, February 24th at 6:00PM. Interested parties are encouraged to submit questions ahead of time by emailing bikelanes@edmondswa.gov. Questions submitted ahead of time will be given priority during the public meeting.

Please contact Ryan Hague by calling (425)771-0220 or by e-mail at ryan.hague@edmondswa.gov for the following:
1. If you have questions about the project.
2. If you are unable to access the on-line information or attend the on-line public meeting
3. If you have difficulty understanding English, you may, free of charge, request language assistance services for this project information

(Edmonds – WA) The City of Edmonds is seeking applications to fill the positions of Landscape Architect and Planner on the Architectural Design Board. The Landscape Architect is a professional working in the field of landscape architecture with the ability to understand and review landscape plans for multifamily and commercial development projects. The Planner position is one who works in the field of urban planning with the ability to deal with land use and design issues in the built environment.

This is a volunteer position and requires the appointed board member to attend up to two evening meetings a month, normally occurring on the first or third Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Public Safety Complex. The ADB is an advisory board to the City on proposed multiple-family and commercial developments including for site, landscape, and building design. The appointed board member does not need to reside within city limits.

Applications may be obtained online at: http://www.edmondswa.gov/images/COE/Government/Boards_and_Commissions/PDF/BC_App_fillable.pdf or by calling the Mayor’s Office at 425.771.0247.

Applications are due Thursday, March 11 by 4:30 pm.

media release

The City of Edmonds Recreation staff has been tasked with answering calls Monday through Friday between 9am and 5pm to identify Edmonds residents unable to travel to obtain their COVID-19 vaccines once more vaccines become readily available. This program begins Thursday, February 18, 2021.

Edmonds residents who meet the WA State Vaccine guidelines and are homebound and unable to travel to a vaccine location are encouraged to call 425-771-0230 to speak with a City staff member.

“We have homebound residents who are potentially being missed when it comes to getting their vaccines. Our goal is to find our most vulnerable homebound residents in the city and then work with our partner agencies to identify ways to get them a vaccine once they become more readily available,” said Mayor Mike Nelson.

This outreach effort is to identify our citizens who will be experiencing obstacles getting their vaccine once more are available as a first step in problem-solving how to better assist them.

If you aren’t homebound but are currently eligible for the vaccine under the WA State Vaccine guidelines, you are encouraged to contact your primary health care provider.

If you do not have internet access or are facing a language barrier, please call the COVID-19 Call Center for Snohomish County at 425-339-5278 (Monday-Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm) for assistance.

For more information about who is currently eligible or to learn more about the vaccine and how to schedule one, please visit the Snohomish County Coronavirus Response & Community Resource Hub.

Please note the City is not currently in possession of vaccines nor will the City be setting up appointments.

(Edmonds - WA) Edmonds residents interested in serving on the Edmonds Planning Board are encouraged to apply for one or more openings this year.

The Planning Board advises the Mayor and City Council on comprehensive planning, rezones, development code amendments, and other land use issues. The Planning Board, with support from City staff, normally meets the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at 7 p.m.

Applications may be obtained by contacting the Mayor’s Office at 425.771.0247 or by visiting the city website at: http://www.edmondswa.gov/images/COE/Government/Boards_and_Commissions/PDF/BC_App_fillable.pdf.

Applications are due by 4:30 pm Tuesday, March 2^nd.

The City encourages women, people of color, and other minorities to apply for service on this Board.

Qualified candidates will be interviewed by the Mayor who will make the appointment with City Council confirmation.

For more information about the Planning Board’s work, contact key City staff at planning@edmondswa.gov.

media release

The City of Edmonds invites you to attend an online open house to discuss the Highway 99 Gateway & Revitalization, Stage 2 Project. The objective of this project is to design and construct safety improvements and gateway signage along Highway 99 (throughout Edmonds), between 244th Street SW and 210th Street SW, consistent with the Conceptual Plans developed in the Highway 99 Gateway- Revitalization Stage 1 planning project.

This project will convert the existing two-way left turn lane to a raised median with mid-block left turn pockets along certain sections, as well as landscaped raised median and C-Curb along other sections in order to improve safety along the entire corridor. In addition, a High-Intensity Activated Crosswalk (HAWK) signal is proposed just north of 234th Street SW to provide an additional pedestrian crossing and improve pedestrian safety along the corridor. Gateway signs will also be added at each end of the City of Edmonds frontage on Highway 99 to help travelers identify the City limits of Edmonds and establish a consistent look that will be extended in future projects along this corridor.

For more information including a clickable link to the Open House Zoom meeting, visit www.EdmondsCorridor99.org.

If you have difficulty understanding English, you may, free of charge, request language assistance services for this project information by contacting Mr. Bertrand Hauss at bertrand.hauss@edmondswa.gov or calling at (425)754-5325.

Fourth Series Picks up February 21^st with Virtual Screening
After two successful virtual screenings in October and November of 2020, the Edmonds Diversity Film Series resumes its fourth season this month, with the next screening scheduled for Sunday, February 21st at 4pm on the Zoom platform. Screenings will be offered FREE to the public and are scheduled for the third Sundays of the month, February through May. Each screening presents a film, or films, related to different topics or groups representing diverse populations and experiences. After each screening there is a brief opportunity for comment and dialogue. And due to the virtual platform, we are fortunate that several of the films’ producers, writers and/or actors will be able to join the Zoom for the comment and question periods.

February’s film is Outside the House by Darnell Lamont Walker. This film has been called a kind of therapy. It is brave men and women sharing their stories, pains, truths, and struggles as they deal with mental illness, showing others they are not alone. Mr. Walker will be joining the Zoom for a Q&A after the filming.  Trigger warning: language, abuse and other difficult topics. The film may be previewed at: http://outsidethehousedoc.com/
Zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/98864553780?pwd=eGRkQzBsL3M3VTlEelY4QmxHbGR0QT09
Meeting ID: 988 6455 3780
Passcode: 918690

Teach Us All – Elevating Equity in Education for Every Student is March’s film, screening on the 21^st at 4pm. Produced by the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes, Teach Us All is a documentary and social justice campaign on educational inequality set against the backdrop of the 1957 Little Rock school crisis. Sixty years after the Little Rock Nine faced violent resistance when desegregating Central High in Arkansas, America’s schools continue to represent the key battleground of the Civil Rights Movement. Teach Us All demonstrates powerful lessons from history within a timely context, emphasizing the need for unity and collective action to rectify the disparities among America’s children. The Teach Us All social justice campaign seeks to build the capacity of students and educators to take leadership in carrying forth the legacy of the Little Rock Nine while activating broader community engagement in today’s urgent need for educational equity. Teach Us All is written and directed by Sonia Lowman.
Zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/91412435510?pwd=WkZ0QUtFN3FZSzBYcWFqVEM5THRXUT09
Meeting ID: 914 1243 5510
Passcode: 252498

On April 18, 2021 the series presents The Homestretch, a film that follows three homeless teens as they fight to stay in school, graduate, and build a future. Each of these smart, ambitious teenagers - Roque, Kasey and Anthony - will surprise, inspire, and challenge audiences to rethink stereotypes of homelessness as they work to complete their education while facing the trauma of being alone and abandoned at an early age. Through haunting images, intimate scenes, and first-person narratives, these teens take us on their journeys of struggle and triumph. As their stories unfold, the film connects us deeply with larger issues of poverty, race, juvenile justice, immigration, foster care, and LGBTQ rights. By Anne de Mare and Kristen Kelly. The film may be previewed at: http://www.homestretchdoc.com/trailer
Zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/92223556572?pwd=ci9HRXNrNUZyak5MUHkyRVZyQVI3dz09
Meeting ID: 922 2355 6572
Passcode: 405164

May 16, 2021 features I Learn America by Jean-Michel Dissard and Gitte Peng. At the International High School at Lafayette, a Brooklyn public school dedicated to newly arrived immigrants from all over the world, five teenagers strive to master English, adapt to families they haven’t seen in years, and create a future of their own while coming of age in a new land. Through these five vibrant young people, their stories and struggles, and their willingness to open their lives and share them with us, we “learn America.” Jean-Michel Dissar will be joining us for a Q&A after the film.
Zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/96842037384?pwd=bWNSakFML2tFeWY4VXhEbUZSVWlNQT09
Meeting ID: 968 4203 7384
Passcode: 169983

Additional information about the films is available at diversity.edmondswa.gov

The Edmonds Diversity Film Series is sponsored by the Edmonds Diversity Commission, MyEdmondsNews, and the Edmonds Centers for the Arts.

The City of Edmonds will be updating its Climate Action Plan this year. Kicking off the update is a virtual open house on February 18th at 6pm. The meeting is open to the public and will be held via Zoom. A link to the meeting can be found online at https://www.edmondsclimate.com/get-involved.

In 2017, the Edmonds City Council adopted Resolution No. 1389 committing the City of Edmonds to achieve or exceed at the local level the goals established in the Paris Climate Agreement. This adoption was based on finding global climate change to be a reality that represents an ever-increasing threat to the health and well-being of residents of Edmonds and beyond.

Since the adoption of Resolution No. 1389, the City of Edmonds has:
·       conducted a Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Inventory
·       established a science-based target of limiting the global average temperature increase to no more than 1.5° Celsius above pre-industrial temperatures
·       reviewed existing City policies, programs and action to reduce GHG emissions
·       developed a tool and measures for tracking GHG emissions

Building upon these previous efforts, the City of Edmonds will be updating its Climate Action Plan in 2021.

The City will be seeking public engagement throughout the development of the Climate Action Plan. To facilitate public engagement a project website has been established at EdmondsClimate.com. This website will be updated throughout the process with information on future public meetings, project materials, background information, and surveys.

This informational virtual open house on the Climate Action Update process will be held on February 18th beginning at 6 pm via Zoom followed by a workshop in March along with a survey to gather public feedback. Zoom meeting links will be provided on the EdmondsClimate.com website.

If you would like to be added to a listserv to receive further information, send an email to climateaction@edmondswa.gov. Find more information online at https://www.edmondsclimate.com/.

The City of Edmonds is requesting public input on the 2021 Traffic Calming Program. The program has a budget of $33,000 to address speeding concerns and reduce cut-through traffic on streets where a problem can be documented. The program consists of a three-phase process: (1) Petition and Review for Qualification; (2) Education / Enforcement; and (3) Possible Installation of Traffic Calming Devices.

In order for a location to be considered in the 2021 Traffic Calming Program, a Citizen Action Request and Neighborhood Petition Form need to be submitted to the City. Both forms can be found by going to the following link: http://www.edmondswa.gov/transportation-text/traffic-calming-program.html. The petition must have supporting signatures from at least eight different households within the neighborhood.

City staff will evaluate each petition and determine if it qualifies for the Traffic Calming Program. Projects deemed qualified will be prioritized and pursued based on available funding.

In past years, the program has funded the installation of speed radar feedback signs, signing, and pavement marking. Alternative solutions may be considered depending on location and the traffic concern.

In order for your street to be considered for the Program, please submit the forms by February 26, 2021 to Mr. Bertrand Hauss, Transportation Engineer either by email bertrand.hauss@edmondswa.gov or mail to Edmonds City Hall, Attn: Engineering Division, 121 5th Ave N, Edmonds, WA 98020.

During its work over the past year the Edmonds Diversity Commission recognized the growing need to consider involving business community members in the work of raising awareness around equity and justice within the community.

As the culmination of a first-ever collaboration between Diversity Commissioners and local business leaders, the Edmonds Diversity Commission has created an Equity Toolkit for Businesses. This toolkit includes resources for local businesses that are interested in learning to become allies and advocates for “creating and strengthening an equitable, welcoming culture for each and every one of our neighbors and visitors” within the Edmonds business community.

The toolkit can be accessed from the Diversity Commission’s webpage:
http://www.edmondswa.gov/diversity-commission-home

In this digital packet, business owners will find a variety of assets including:
·       An Edmonds Pledge of Equity as well as sample pledges that can be used as guide in creating a business’s customized pledge of equity
·       A toolkit of resources to assist business owners, their management teams, and staff to assess their organization through an equity lens and find areas for improvement
·       A curated list of helpful books and workbooks that provide guidance, perspective, and insight on dismantling racism, intersectionality, and inclusion
·       Websites and podcasts to use as resources to provide you with in-depth information on promoting equity, allies, and diversity of all types
·       Contacts for local trainers and leaders who can work with your business to further your equity efforts

Courtney Wooten, local Edmonds resident and owner of Suburbia Rising, a consulting firm offering training, workshops and guidance on issues of inclusivity, community organizing and community engagement, was hired by the Edmonds Diversity Commission to research and compile the Equity Toolkit, which she presented to the Commission at its January meeting.

“After a collaboration with local business leaders, and with the great work of Courtney Wooten, the Diversity Commission is thrilled to be able to offer this Equity Toolkit to the local business community,” stated Diversity Commission Chair Ardeth Weed.  “It is our sincere hope that business owners will take the pledge for equity and share these resources with their employees to help create a welcoming and more equitable community for all.”

The Equity Toolkit will be a “living document,” intended to be updated in the future with additional useful resources. Check the Diversity Commission’s webpage for updates!

Today we honor Bill Anderson and his tremendous contributions to our community. Bill was heavily involved with our Discovery Program and with BirdFest for many years. Bill and his son Daren were frequently found photographing the wildlife of many Edmonds' parks. Bill's photos, patience and environmental leadership will be greatly missed.

Learn more about Bill’s dedication to photography and protecting our local wildlife here. 

Bill Anderson Proclamation

Photo credit: Bob Sears

 Photo credit: Bill Anderson

(Edmonds, WA) The Mayor’s Equity and Social Justice Task Force has submitted their report on Public Safety and Policing which includes several findings and recommendations. The full report can be found in its entirety online at http://report.edmondswa.gov.

The Task Force’s findings included:

• The Police Department, while intentionally working to hire a more diverse force, does not currently have, yet should have consistent, on-going training in working with marginalized populations, specifically communities of color.

• The department has not sought out input or insights from the community at large when developing their plans for cultural assessments

• There is a lack of insight into the perspectives and concerns of many in the community that they serve, especially communities of color.

• There is a lack of training in community outreach and community engagement that would help the Police Department in serving the citizens of Edmonds.

• A lack of training in police, dealing with the social services needs of citizens, was evident. Police are being asked to provide social services without adequate training, which makes it challenging for a social worker to follow up after the fact.

• Many residents of color do not feel safe in Edmonds.

• Accountability and transparency are two terms that came up repeatedly throughout the Task Force process and there are differences in how the police and the community understand those terms as they relate to public safety.

The Task Force’s recommendations included:

• Community engagement training for the Edmonds Police Department

• Integration of social services, including training in the best use of a social services staff person

• Establishing an implicit bias training program for the Police Department

• Continued use of the Task Force in developing an ongoing equity work plan

The Equity and Social Justice Task Force was formed “for the purpose of providing advisement to the Mayor on issues of equity and justice.” The Task Force began meeting in August of 2020 to study equity-related issues within city government and create an Equity Toolkit, as well as an Equity Work Plan for the City. The first priority was Police Department practices as they relate to Public Safety/Policing. They wish to continue to provide support and evaluate progress made on the recommendations for the Police Department.

The Task Force consists of thirteen members, including a combination of civic and business community members, as well as representatives from regional equity and inclusion organizations.

Over the last six months the Task Force has worked independently under the guidance of a consultant who specializes in equity and justice work, Armstead Consulting. While the consultant assisted the task force in providing information on best practices for this process, the work of the Task Force was entirely driven and completed by the Task Force members.

Mayor Nelson stated, “This report found problems in how we police and gives solutions to do a better job of supporting Black residents and other marginalized populations. I am sharing this report with our police performance audit firm and our Police Chief selection organization to help inform expectations for our next Police Chief moving forward. I want to thank the citizen Task Force members who dedicated themselves to help address equity and social justice issues facing our community. As I am committed to be as transparent as possible with actions to be taken in regards to our Police Department, I am releasing the Equity and Justice Task Force report in its entirety.”

Equity Toolkit

The Task Force also created an Equity Toolkit that provides a set of questions to help decision-makers focus on equity in both their processes and outcomes. The questions are designed to create a more inclusive perspective, drawing attention to how a decision may create the potential to affect marginalized groups.

Media Release | Report

EdmondsBizBooster.com provides portal to business-support services

(Edmonds, WA) After nearly a year since inception of the idea, the City of Edmonds and Edmonds Chamber of Commerce are announcing the launch of the Edmonds Business Booster, an online consolidated portal of FREE business-support services offered by various agencies and organizations serving Edmonds and Snohomish County.

With attention-grabbing lines like – “Do you have a fantastic product idea, but don’t know how to get moving?” or “Wishing you could tap into the knowledge of business leaders who’ve done and seen it all before you?” – this new online resource, found at EdmondsBizBooster.com, includes services from eight entities initially, including:

• Small Business Development Center
• Sno-Isle Library Business Services
• NW Innovation Resource Center
• Edmonds College “Facility Makerspace”
• Department of Commerce Export Assistance Center
• SCORE
• Edmonds College
• Port of Edmonds

Additional resource agencies will be added, as well as programming, such as webinars, tutorials, etc.

“This new online resource gives access to free resources that can help our local businesses grow and thrive during these times of economic stress,” stated Mayor Mike Nelson.

Economic Development & Community Services Director Patrick Doherty adds, “While these resources have been serving local businesses for years, it’s likely that most local small business owners have not known about the free services they offer that can really make a difference. Bringing them together in one place and making a concerted PR push should help drive more Edmonds businesses to these services.”

The website also offers an e-subscribe service to enable notification about updates and new offerings.

For more information, please contact Patrick Doherty at patrick.doherty@edmondswa.gov or 425-771-0251.

Media Release

To view the Address click here | Click here for the text

(Edmonds, WA) Mayor Nelson announced Tuesday that he has engaged the services of the Center for Public Safety Management (CPSM) to conduct a performance audit of the Edmonds Police Department.

Mayor Nelson stated, “To help assist our next Police Chief in leading our Police Department into the future, I have authorized a performance audit of the Police Department. This audit will enable the person selected as our next Chief to fully understand what the department – and more importantly the community – need and desire from police services in Edmonds.”

This study will do a deep dive into the Police Department’s service calls and responses, as well as look at all facets of policing and how they impact the community. The study will involve the following:

• Conduct a data-driven forensic analysis to identify what is driving overtime, workloads, and service demands and any potential gaps in patrol coverage.
• Identify and recommend appropriate staffing and deployment levels for every operational and support function in the department.
• Examine the department’s organizational structure and culture, including the qualitative aspects of patrol.
• Perform gap analysis, including operational readiness, comparing the “as is” state of the department to the industry’s best practices.
• Recommend a management framework to ensure accountability and improved performance.
• Evaluate the implementation of community policing, in quantifiable and anecdotal terms, and identify improvement opportunities where appropriate.

Resulting from this analysis, the study will create a short- and long-term strategic plan which will help the City to determine its future service levels, including performance management and the department’s basic ability to carry out its mission.

Center for Public Safety Management (CPSM)

The Center for Public Safety Management (CPSM) was launched by the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) to provide support to local governments in the areas of police, fire, and emergency medical services.

The Center also represents local governments at the federal level and has been involved in numerous projects with the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security. In 2014 as part of a restructuring at ICMA, the Center for Public Safety Management (CPSM) spun out as a separate company and is now the exclusive provider of public safety technical assistance for ICMA.

CPSM’s local government technical assistance experience includes workload and deployment analysis, using a unique methodology and subject matter experts to examine department organizational structure and culture, identify workload and staffing needs, as well as industry best practices.

CPSM has conducted over 346 such studies in 43 states and provinces and 246 communities, ranging in population from 8,000 (Boone, IA) to 800,000 (Indianapolis, IN).

International City/County Management Association (ICMA)

The ICMA is a 103-year old, non-profit professional association of local government administrators and managers, with approximately 13,000 members located in 32 countries. ICMA advances the knowledge of local government best practices with its website, www.icma.org, publications, research, professional development, and membership.

media release

(Edmonds, WA) The following is a statement from Mayor Mike Nelson to the people of Edmonds in advance of the upcoming Martin Luther King Day holiday:

This year, more than ever since the beginning of the Civil Rights Movement, as we approach Martin Luther King Day 2021, it’s important for us to reflect on our actions as individuals, families, a community, and a nation with regard to the basic human rights of all our fellow members of society.

This past year has been particularly difficult. Not only have we all been worn down by the COVID-19 pandemic, but we have also been rocked as a nation by senseless violence against Black people that has continued unabated across the country. Many have risen up and protested, marched and pushed back, yet systemic and institutional prejudice and racism are deeply embedded. It will take unwavering and sustained, collective effort to overcome and reverse.

Dr King’s legacy suggests that this collective effort starts at home – among each and every one of us, our families, friends and colleagues. Lasting, effective systemic change must rise from a grass-roots foundation that requires each of us to be informed, act and urge others to act to combat racism.

For Martin Luther King Day 2021 there are many ways we can both honor the legacy of Dr. King and become more informed in order to act, despite not being able to gather in person as in past years.

At Noon on Monday, January 18 the locally based Lift Every Voice Legacy, in partnership with the Communities of Color Coalition, will present a FREE virtual event: “Becoming Brave – a Tribute to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr,” intended to inspire a beloved community in song, spoken word, and dance. The free virtual event will be available to the public at www.beloved4all.org, and for those who register at this website a preview will be available on Sunday Jan 17. Donations will be accepted. The event will also be available at www.edmondswa.gov/diversity-commission-home.

I would also encourage you to watch one or more of the many great documentaries and movies about the life and legacy of Dr. King, such as:

• Martin Luther King Jr for Kids (short documentary at: https://youtu.be/SZ5BgcFWTbo)
• In Remembrance of Martin (trailer: https://youtu.be/inbVOgQom9M)
• King in the Wilderness (trailer: https://youtu.be/aVGRg89DbyM)
• Free at Last – Martin Luther King Jr (trailer: https://youtu.be/UhkVmeIkrRk)
• Dr Martin Luther King: A Historical Perspective (trailer: https://youtu.be/LSGZwc7BssU)
• King: Man of Peace in a Time of War (trailer: https://youtu.be/7Gp0JcsERSU?list=PLeNv8lXW6dUQpfeuoW2oQgHt7kbGktXIJ)
• King: A Filmed Record…Montgomery to Memphis (trailer: https://youtu.be/vIDGX-TIZ9I)

 

Lastly, now more than ever, the legacy of Dr King must be remembered and acted upon, not just this one day, but it must serve as a source of continued work throughout the year.

In our city I am pursuing systemic change within City government to eliminate institutional bias and discrimination, aided by a series of upcoming recommendations from my Equity and Justice Task Force. The City’s Diversity Commission is also doing important work to help address issues of equity and inclusion throughout our community.

In closing I wish you all a safe and memorable Martin Luther King holiday and encourage us all to continue to engage in collective efforts to fulfill Dr King’s legacy every day.

media release

The deadline for viewing an online open house and taking a housing policy survey has been extended by three days to January 11. View the Press Release here.

The last online open house and survey from the Edmonds Housing Commission is ready for community engagement and is available through January 8, 2021. View the news release here. To learn about the Housing Commission’s draft recommendations and give feedback, visit www.ECHCOpenHouse.com.

Open House - Draft Housing Ideas

The City of Edmonds Arts Commission (EAC) is offering two, single opportunity grants in 2021 for artists and nonprofit arts and culture organizations based in Edmonds. Applications are now available. The application deadline is January 28, 2021. Projects must be completed in 2021.

The Small Grant Program will have a total of $5,000 available for small grants of $100 - $1,000 for arts-based projects to support creativity, diversity and access to arts in Edmonds through literary, visual or performing arts. Applicants must be residents of Edmonds or organizations located in Edmonds.

"Creating a Future" Large Grant Program has a total of $50,000 available for awards up to $10,000. The purpose of the grant opportunity is to help build and reinforce a diverse and equitable cultural community in Edmonds, recognizing the uncertainty and challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the necessity of changing strategies to create access for all to the arts. Both individual artists and arts and culture organizations based in Edmonds are eligible if they have not-for-profit status either solely or through a partnership or umbrella relationship. Collaborations are encouraged.

Grant program Guidelines and applications for both grants are available on the Arts Commission website http://www.edmondswa.gov/workshops-a-grants.html. For questions contact frances.chapin@edmondswa.gov .

Edmonds Parks & Recreation Marty the holiday mouse

Follow Marty as he visits some of his favorite destinations in Edmonds’ parks.

(Edmonds - WA)

Join Edmonds Parks & Recreation on a family-friendly holiday adventure through three different parks. Follow our story through the eyes of Marty the Mouse as he meets animal friends, avoids predators, and discovers some of what makes winter in Edmonds parks so special. The adventure will be active from December 15^th to January 15^th. Be sure to bring along as a smart phone as location markers include a QR code to enhance learning with additional materials. The adventure includes walking on some unpaved trails, so wear sturdy shoes and dress for the weather before you venture out.

Follow Marty’s story through the Edmonds Facebook page (@EdmondsRecZone), Instagram page (edmondsreczone), and the Marty the Mouse website: http://www.edmondswa.gov/marty-the-holiday-mouse. Be sure to review the story as you move along, so you can find your way to each location.

Signs at each location have a letter noted by a green burst. If you want to play our word scramble game, be sure to write down each letter from the eight location markers and decode the themed word. Once you think you have the themed word decoded, send an email to kim.anderson@edmondswa.gov with your word guess! All submissions with the correct word will be entered into a random drawing for a prize! Post a picture of you on the Marty adventure, and tag our Facebook or Instagram accounts to get one extra entry to the prize drawing. That’s two chances to win instead of one! One entry per person can be entered for the prize drawing. Entries are accepted until January 15^th. The random prize winner will be announced on January 18^th.

The City of Edmonds’ Planning Board will hold a public hearing on the Draft Tree Regulations December 9 at 7 p.m. Information on the Tree Code Update, the Planning Board’s review, and the draft tree regulations are available for review at treecode.edmondswa.gov. (Get background on the tree code here) 

The public is invited to participate in the public hearing via Zoom or by phone at:

• https://zoom.us/s/94704154660
• Via phone by dialing 253-215-8782
• Meeting ID: 947 0415 4660
• Passcode: 251948

Contact the City to get on the first-come, first-served list for distribution

(Edmonds, WA) With more restaurants turning to take-out as the only means of financial survival during COVID-19 restrictions, they are using more compostable to-go containers and gloves which can be costly. Using Federal CARES Act funds, the City has been able to buy various-sized compostable containers and boxes of gloves to distribute to restaurants. These compostable containers are fully approved by Cedar Grove Composting for acceptance at their facility.

“We heard from the restaurant community, which has been among the most impacted by the COVID restrictions, about the challenges of only offering takeout at this time,” stated Mayor Nelson.  “This is one way we can help ease the financial strain, promote take out dining from our restaurants, and help meet our environmental goals of encouraging compostable waste.”

The City will distribute up to 7,350 compostable to-go containers and over 12,000 gloves in prepackaged bundles at the first of two drive-up events. The first will be held on Dec. 7 between 10 am and 1 pm at the Public Works Building north parking lot at 7110 210^th St. SW.

A second distribution event, with an even greater number of items, will take place Dec. 21.

Two selections of packages are available:

Package One will contain:
·         two bags of 9 X 9 food containers for a total of 100 containers,
·         two bags of 6 X 6 containers for a total of 150 containers, and
·         four boxes of gloves for a total of 200 pairs.

Package Two will contain:
·         three bags of 9 X 9 containers for a total of 150 containers, and
·         four boxes of gloves for a total of 200 pairs.

Quantities are limited so please register in advance for a package of containers and gloves, by contacting Megan Luttrell at megan.luttrell@edmondswa.gov by Noon Friday, Dec. 4. Please indicate whether you wish to sign up for Package One or Package Two. She will respond to confirm your space on the list for the 12/7/20 event. If you cannot be accommodated on that day, you will be placed on the list for the 12/21/20 event. Media Release

 

In the on-going effort to connect with residents during these difficult times, Edmonds Mayor Mike Nelson will host his second Neighborhood Zoom Meeting Dec. 7 at 6:30 pm for the Highway 99 and Lake Ballinger areas.

Here is the Zoom Link:  https://zoom.us/j/93277848512 

It can also be found on the Edmonds Communications Page at www.edmondswa.gov/communications. (more) 

Edmonds Mayor Mike Nelson today appointed Acting Finance Director Dave Turley to be the City’s next Finance Director. 

“I am pleased to announce that that I am appointing Dave Turley to be our City’s Finance Director. Dave has served our City for four years as Assistant Finance Director and stepped up to be our Acting Director during the pandemic,” said Mayor Nelson. (read more) 

(Edmonds,WA) Mayor Mike Nelson today appointed Whitney Rivera to be Edmonds' next Municipal Court Judge. Stated Mayor Nelson, “I am excited to announce my judicial appointment of Whitney Rivera to the Edmonds Municipal Court. She brings forth vast trial court experience and has received multiple awards for taking innovative approaches in complicated cases. She has considerable experience working with underserved populations, working on issues of poverty, mental illness, and substance abuse that underlie so many misdemeanor cases.” read more

In Partnership with Verdant and Medical Teams International, the City Encourages You to Get a COVID Test

The City is partnering with Verdant Health Commission and Medical Teams International to provide free, non-invasive COVID-19 testing Monday, Nov. 23rd from 10 am – 5 pm at the Edmonds Woodway High School South parking lot(enter off of 76^th Ave. W). This is a drive-thru event, but walk-ups will not be turned away.

“The goal is to test as many people in the community as possible,” said Edmonds Mayor Mike Nelson. “You may not be showing symptoms, but could still spread the virus. Getting tested protects your loved ones.” The City encourages residents to put the family in the car and get everyone tested.

How it works
Medical Teams International staff will register each person as they drive up. Clients will not touch the registration paper for infection control purposes. Individuals should bring ID and insurance cards if they have insurance. Insurance payments help offset the cost for those who can’t pay.

No clients will be turned away. The testing is free, no exceptions. Grant funding covers the cost of the tests, though most insurance companies cover the cost of the test with no expense to the client. When insurance is billed, there are more grant-funded tests for those without insurance.

Tests are sent to the University of Washington and results can easily be accessed online with a code that is provided at the Edmonds testing site. Test results are available 2-5 days after the test, however results may be available in as soon as 24-48 hours.

The testing method used is anterior nasal swabbing, resulting in less discomfort than other methods. About 1 cm of the swab is inserted into one nostril at a time and rotated for about 10 seconds. The test is safe for both children and adults.

To learn more about this event, please contact Jennifer Piplic, Director of Marketing and Communication at Verdant Health Commission: jennifer.piplic@verdanthealth.org or 425-582-8600.

The Edmonds Citizens’ Tree Board has at least one member position that will be vacant by the end of 2020. The City is seeking applications for that position and any other Tree Board positions that become available in the near future. The application form is available on the City’s website or by e-mailing jana.spellman@edmondswa.gov. Applications are due by December 4, 2020.

The Edmonds City Council Meetings for Tonight, November 10^thhave been Canceled but will be Rescheduled.

Mayor Nelson and Council President Fraley-Monillas plan to reschedule the meetings for this Thursday, November 12^th.

We will not move forward until we can guarantee a more secure meeting format which is of the utmost importance for our City and our citizens.

Because tonight’s Council meetings are a Special meeting, we cannot make any technical changes to the format or changes to the access without violating the Open Public Meetings Act.

(Edmonds) Mayor Mike Nelson offers the following statement in response to the lewd and racist disruptions that occurred Monday evening during the Police Chief public forum on Zoom.

Last night a pathetic, hate-filled coward disrupted our Police Chief public forum on Zoom.

As we do with City Council meetings, I supported the open Zoom meeting format in order to remove as many barriers as possible for public participation. Other formats, such as watching a Zoom Webinar, require logging in with an email address, which some members of the public may not see as fully accessible. This public forum had the same security features as our regular City Council meetings because, as a government agency, we must be accessible and transparent.   Of course, in any public setting, by its very nature, there is the risk of a few bad actors taking advantage of the open forum. Unfortunately, that happened last night when individual(s) with racist beliefs and unsavory conduct briefly interrupted the proceedings. read more

(Edmonds) After the Edmonds Police Department’s media release today regarding a domestic gun discharge this past weekend that left a young girl injured, Mayor Mike Nelson offers the following additional remarks:

I am very saddened to hear of a five-year-old girl shot by her father while he was unholstering his firearm at their Edmonds home. 

This incident follows just a few short weeks after the tragic, armed, domestic violence case on Highway 99 that ended in a woman’s death.

I do not accept that accidents just happen, nor that domestic violence homicides are not preventable.  Gun violence and harm are preventable and pose a clear and present danger to every community.  

I will be working with our Chief of Police on prevention strategies that we as a city can take to prevent gun violence.  This will include community-based gun safety programs, disarming domestic violence abusers with such tools as Extreme Risk Protection Orders, and lobbying our State Legislature to mandate gun-safety training, as well as to enact legislation that would give local governments the authority to put stronger laws into place that better protect our communities.

A new webpage, http://treecode.edmondswa.gov, has been posted for the public to learn about and provide comments on the tree code update that the City has undertaken.

(Edmonds, WA) - Acting Chief Jim Lawless yesterday issued a General Order to all Edmonds Police Department personnel stating that, as standard practice, the Department will no longer file a criminal case for the sole offense of Driving While License Suspended in the Third Degree. 

Typically, this offense results from a driver failing to pay the ticket or appear in court for a prior moving violation, like speeding or rolling through a stop sign. 

Instead, officers will cite and release the offender with the civil infraction of No Valid Operator’s License with ID (if in possession of a valid form of identification as outlined in RCW 46.20.015). 

“Criminalizing the stand-alone offense of Driving While License Suspended in the Third Degree can lead an individual down a spiral of debt, inability to drive, loss of job, and worse,” stated Mayor Nelson. “That downward spiral hits particularly hard among lower-income individuals and people of color. In Washington State, Black people are three times more likely to be charged, and Native Americans are twice as likely to be charged, with this offense.” read more

The Edmonds Planning Board is holding a public hearing on the Capital Improvement Program / Capital Facilities Plan on Thursday, November 12th. The meeting begins at 7:00 p.m. and is a virtual/remote meeting being held via Zoom. Information on the details of the CIP and CFP, and how to join the meeting, can be found on the Planning Board agenda page.

What programs, recreation and community classes would you like to see?

The City of Edmonds seeks input from the community for recreation program recommendations at the new Edmonds Waterfront Center. City Recreation staff are developing programs for all ages to be held at this new state-of-the-art building. Sharing the building with the Edmonds Senior Center, City recreation will be running classes Monday through Thursday between the hours of 4:00pm-10:00pm. (Read more) 

Starts Saturday, Nov 7th. Vendors will offer specialty foods, wines, treats, flowers, gifts, entertainment and more! 
While many traditional holiday events this year have been canceled due to COVID-19 restrictions, one recent tradition will be able to proceed: the Edmonds Holiday Market, kicking off its six season this Saturday, November 7^th from 10am till 3pm.  In the heart of Downtown, on 5^th Avenue North and Bell Street around the holiday tree, the Holiday Market will run for six Saturdays from 10am to 3pm on November 7^th, 14^th, and 21^st, and December 5^th, 12^th, and 19^th, skipping Thanksgiving weekend Saturday (November 28^th). Over fifty vendors will treat shoppers to a rich selection of holiday gifts, food, wines, flowers, treats and music. 

  “Given everything else that’s been canceled or curtailed, we’re thrilled to bring back this popular holiday market to Downtown Edmonds with a great array of vendors this year,” says City of Edmonds Economic Development Director Patrick Doherty.  “In addition to the Holiday Market, Downtown Edmonds will once again offer holiday fun and that special hometown charm – a wonderland of lights, music, holiday wreaths and greetings on shop fronts, and visits by Emily the holiday Elf on Saturdays. Of course, the mainstay of the holidays will continue to be the wonderful variety of shops, cafés, restaurants and service providers that make Downtown Edmonds a particular delight during the holidays.”

 For more information about the market, visit: www.facebook.com/edmondsholidaymarket/

The November 9, 2020 Public Forum with Edmonds' Police Chief Candidates Sherman Pruitt and Jim Lawless can be viewed here.

                 Sherman Pruitt                                      Jim Lawless

(Edmonds, WA) As the holiday season approaches and COVID numbers are on the rise, a reminder that social gatherings with members outside your household or pod are not allowed. We understand that communty members may want to host their holiday gatherings at one of Edmonds many parks. However, in accordance with the CDC, and the State of Washington and Snohomish County health guidelines, we cannot permit or allow these large gatherings. (read more) 

(Edmonds) Mayor Mike Nelson is pleased to announce that “after an almost two-month application period, I am excited to move forward two exceptional candidates for further consideration for the position of Edmonds Police Chief.” He further offered: “Both candidates bring a wealth of valuable experience.” media release

Local residents are asked to weigh in on Commission’s second round of ideas

(Edmonds, WA) The City of Edmonds has extended an online open house and community survey about its second set of housing ideas. The open house and survey are part of community outreach by the Edmonds Housing Commission to gather and organize community input on housing policy concepts from zoning to community programs. The open house and survey have been extended to October 18 due to unprecedented mailing delays for those to whom postcards and surveys were sent.

The online open house features videos that highlight ideas for many housing policy topics including homelessness prevention and affordable housing incentives. It can all be found at: ECHCOpenHouse.com. read more

A Community Embracing our Heritage Together

Today, Oct. 12, is Indigenous Peoples’ Day and the City wants recognize all Indigenous people and draw special attention to the Coast Salish peoples, including Tulalip, Suquamish, Stillaguamish, Lummi, and other tribes who have inhabited the Puget Sound region that encompasses the shorelands and uplands of Edmonds.

Mayor Mike Nelson offers the following remarks: For thousands of years the Indigenous Coast Salish peoples have used the area now known as Edmonds to harvest salmon, shellfish, and land-based resources.
The rich, diverse culture and enduring spirit of the Indigenous Peoples of Puget Sound region live on in Edmonds, not just through the acts of a few, but through the intentional efforts of many.

I am honored to draw attention to the ArtWalk mural program that has recently completed two murals depicting Coast Salish culture in our area at the time of contact. Thank you, Andy Eccleshall (muralist) and Coast Salish artist Ty Juvenil, for your collaborative effort to create these images.
I want to thank the leadership at the new Waterfront Center who are seeking to partner with the local tribes to incorporate Coast Salish artwork as a part of the new center set for completion in November.

Finally, I am very excited to see the carved cedar panel created by Coast Salish artist Ty Juvenil that depicts traditional Coast Salish activities on the shores of Puget Sound and will be placed across from City Hall at the Historical Museum later this year.

These are just a few of the countless examples where, in a year filled with uncertainties and in the midst of a pandemic, the community of Edmonds continues to inspire and lead by example. Thank you to the community for your efforts to ensure we continue to embrace our heritage, not just today, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, but every day.

However curbside dining continues through November 8. There are signs of fall in the air: cooler days, falling leaves and two of the most popular events of the summer come to a close. This weekend, October. 10-11, will be the last weekend of Walkable Main Street as well as the Edmonds Summer Market. We encourage residents to come out and enjoy these activities on their final weekend. To read more click here. 

City has received numerous complaints of non-compliance during night-time squidding

(Edmonds, WA) Concern residents and fellow squidders continue to contact the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services department about the lack of COVID safety measures being followed at the Edmonds Fishing Pier. Specifically, the lack of distancing and mask wearing during the night-time squidding activities. Police patrols have been increased and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has been contacted for support. read more

Applications Accepted through 5:00 pm, October 21^st

(Edmonds, WA) - After a successful initial business grant program during the Summer, and fueled by an additional allocation of funds from the federal CARES Act, the City of Edmonds announces today a second round of Business Support Grants of up to $10,000 each. A two-week application period begins today, with an application deadline of 5pm, October 21, 2020.  read more and click here for application.