Tuesday, August 4, 2020 ~ Flags are at Half-Staff in memory of Bothell Police Officer Jonathan Shoop who died in the line of duty on Monday, July 13, 2020

Wednesday, August 5, 2020 ~ Flags are at Half-Staff in memory of Washington State Trooper Justin Schaffer who died in the line of duty on Tuesday, March 24, 2020.

(Edmonds, WA) – As part of its Edmonds Cares Fund, the City of Edmonds has offered 91 local small businesses grants of up to $8,000 to help defray the extra costs and lost revenue associated with the COVID-19 economic crisis. All grant recipients have now been contacted. The City is pleased to be able to offer grants to well over half of the 162 businesses that sent in applications. 

According to the City, all of the recipients are small businesses, most are minority- or women-owned, a large number have lost more than 70 percent of their business compared with last year, and many received little to no other grant funding. continue reading

Edmonds residents are asked to weigh in on concepts big and small

(Edmonds, WA) The City of Edmonds has launched an online open house and community survey about 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 building design.

The open house will feature videos that highlight ideas for many housing policy topics including accessory dwellings and housing funds and future engagement opportunities. It can all be found at ECHCOpenHouse.com. continue reading

After a hiatus over the holiday weekend, and in response to great community support, Main Street will again be closed to vehicles from 3rd to 6th Avenues on Saturday 10am to 10pm and Sunday 10am to 9pm to allow for:

• a larger, safer area for pedestrian flow, allowing for social distancing while strolling
• seating for restaurants and cafés, allowing for safer outdoor dining
• outdoor sales or display for retailers
• members of the public to return to Downtown Edmonds in a more welcoming and safer manner and to re-engage with shops, services, and restaurants

 

Please view the map attached to this post for a diagram of the street closure and availability of nearby parking. map

Walkable Main Street will continue on Saturdays and Sundays for the foreseeable future.

Please patronize all our wonderful retail shops and services while enjoying Walkable Main Street!

Second Round of Grants for City’s Most Vulnerable Residents Also Opens

(Edmonds, WA) - After City Council approval on June 23^rd, grants of up to $10,000 are now available to small businesses in Edmonds to help provide relief to the economic blow created by the COVID-19 economic crisis. As part of the “Edmonds Cares Fund,” Business Support Grants will provide individual businesses up to $10,000. The total grant pool is $700,000.

The City Council also approved increased funding for a second round of grants to local lower-income residents who are often the most hard-hit by loss of employment and increased expenses brought on by the crisis. continue reading

The Edmonds City Council will hold an optional public hearing to receive residents’ comments on the proposed Wastewater Treatment Incinerator Replacement project on July 7 at 7 pm.

The $26 million project replaces the existing 30-year old mechanical incinerator which is nearly a decade beyond the end of its useful life and has become increasingly expensive to maintain due to more stringent air quality standards. The replacement project complies with all current standards and aligns with state and local climate action targets.

The City has fully researched available options, has developed a recommended solution. We are now seeking Council approval to move forward with this recommended option.

The City Council meeting will begin at 7:00 p.m. via the Zoom Platform. Residents may connect with a computer or smart phone at: https://zoom.us/s/4257752525 or join the meeting by phone at: 888 475 4499 (Toll Free) or 877 853 5257 (Toll Free) Meeting ID 425 775 2525.  

Written comments are welcomed prior to the public hearing. Please submit to Maureen.Judge@edmondswa.gov.

Dayton Street construction update: upcoming 8th Ave intersection closure:

Crews plan to close the 8th Ave and Dayton Street intersection from Monday, July 6 to Thursday, July 9.  During the closure, crews will finish the intersection, build a new center island and complete the paving work in that same area.  This is part of the larger multi-phase Dayton Project to upgrade utilities. 

During this closure:
• The intersection of 8th Avenue and Dayton will be closed to all vehicle traffic daily from Monday, July 6 through Thursday, July 9 between 7 am and 5 pm. 
• The intersection will be open during evening hours.
• Access to businesses, driveways, and parking lots will be maintained
• The sidewalks at the 8th Ave intersection will be open; pedestrian detours crossing the intersection will be in place.
 
Community Transit rerouted during Phase 2 construction Community Transit Route 116 has been rerouted between 3rd and 9th avenues for Phase 2 construction. Several stops along Dayton Street have been relocated for the duration of construction. For up-to-date details about bus routes, please visit Community Transit’s rider alerts page.
 
How to stay informed - COVID-19: For updates on what the City of Edmonds is doing to respond to the COVID-19 outbreak, visit: http://www.edmondswa.gov/coronavirus.html
• Website: Please stay tuned to our website for regular updates: http://www.edmondswa.gov/dayton-street-utility-improvements.html
• Email: If you have questions or comments, email us at daytonproject@edmondswa.gov
• Twitter: You can also follow project progress on Twitter at @DaytonStProject

The City of Edmonds is working to manage our community’s needs for support and safety as COVID-19 continues to impact us all. Please note the construction schedule is subject change as we receive new information. For more information about actions the City of Edmonds is taking, please visit http://www.edmondswa.gov/coronavirus.html.

Scheduled site visits offer support and direction, not penalties

(Edmonds, WA) -   COVID-19 restrictions have been tough on local businesses. To help businesses adapt to the new rules and changing requirements, Development Services staff will delay some current work to go to local businesses for site visits.

“Business owners have a lot on their mind with scheduling and managing the financial impact of COVID and closures,” said Shane Hope, Development Services Director. “We want to connect them to accurate information and where to get supplies like masks and other protective things they might need so they can reopen and customers can feel good about going inside and doing business with them.”

These visits aren’t punitive and the city isn’t handing out tickets. Staff will inform workers and owners on the guidelines.

Last week, the City sent all 2200 business owners a postcard with links to useful information about grants, loans, and additional support. Last Friday, staff began the site visits. Teams will focus on restaurants, bars, retail and personal services like salons.

Business can set up a time with Development Services team members by calling 425.771.0220. The team will also make spot visits around town. Business owners can also check the City’s business support page at www.edmondswa.gov/covid-business. It is updated frequently.

From acting to robotics to football to outdoor adventures, Edmonds Parks has it all  

(Edmonds, WA) It has been a very tough year for both kids and parents. That’s why the City of Edmonds is happy to share information about the 50+summer camp opportunities available as soon as Edmonds moves into COVID-19 Safe Start Phase 3. continue reading

Area around Fountain will close in addition to Main Street for more pleasant pedestrian experience

(Edmonds, WA) -   Last weekend’s Walkable Main Street Pilot Project was so popular that Edmonds City Mayor Mike Nelson announced the City will do it again this weekend, June 27 and 28. Based on feedback, more street sections will close for outdoor dining and walking, and the timeframe will expand. continue reading

Road closed between 3^rd and 6^th Avenues for outdoor dining and walking

(Edmonds, WA) - Edmonds Mayor Mike Nelson announced the dates for the first pedestrian-friendly weekend along Main Street. The weekend of June 20-21, which is Father’s Day weekend and the first official weekend of summer, the City will close Main Street to vehicle traffic between Third and Sixth Avenues, opening the street to pedestrians and local businesses who want to move outdoors. He encourages businesses in other areas, like Westgate, Five Corners, and in the Highway 99 Corridor to also move tables outside. continue reading

Photo courtesy of Edmonds Downtown Alliance

EDMONDS CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS ARE HELD EVERY TUESDAY EVENING AT 7 PM, EXCEPT FOR THE FIFTH TUESDAY OF A MONTH UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTICED. DUE TO THE CORONAVIRUS, MEETINGS ARE CURRENTLY BEING HELD VIRTUALLY.

To provide Public Comment at an Edmonds City Council Meeting, at the beginning of the meeting click on the link below or call one of the listed toll free numbers. You will be connected to the meeting waiting room. When it is your turn to speak you will be admitted to the meeting for your 3-minute public comment. When admitted, please state your name and city of residence before providing your comments. You can also submit your written comments (450 word maximum) via email to publiccomment@edmondswa.gov. PLEASE NOTE:
                                                               the meeting cannot be viewed at the Public Comment link.

                                                               https://zoom.us/s/4257752525

or call toll free: 888-475-4499 or 877-853-5257 | Meeting ID: 425 775 2525

 

To VIEW the Edmonds City Council Meeting:

Click on the following link ~ http://edmondswa.iqm2.com/Citizens/default.aspx

View on one of the following cable channels: Comcast channel 21 | Ziply channel 39

Listen on your telephone by calling 712-775-7270 ~ access code 583224

(Edmonds, WA) - 3rd-party independent reviewer, Dr. David Parry, supports staff recommendations for The City of Edmonds Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant Incinerator Replacement Project 

The June 16, 2020 City Council presentation by Public Works Director, Phil Williams, will offer recommendations after study of pyrolises and gasification with biosolids management as options for the Regional Wastewater Incinerator Replacement project. Dr. David Parry, the City's 3rd-Party Independent Reviewer has offered insight and his recommendation on biochar and the choice between biosolids management with gasification and the use of pyrolises.  

Application for Grants Available Now as well as Fundraising Platform

(Edmonds, WA) - The City of Edmonds moves forward with an effort to help our most vulnerable residents. Today, the City named the two organizations tapped to help disburse the $100,000 Housing and Supplementary Relief Fund approved by the Edmonds City Council in April.

“I am grateful the Council supported this important effort early on in this pandemic. It has allowed us to move forward quickly,” said Edmonds Mayor Mike Nelson. “I am pleased we’re announcing that you can apply for assistance right now.” continue reading

Racial diversity and geographic diversity are highly valued

(Edmonds, WA) - Last week, Edmonds Mayor Mike Nelson shared his intention to create an Equity and Justice Task Force to help identify and correct systemic and implicit bias, and barriers to inclusion and equity within city operations. The desired outcome would be a set of recommended policies and procedures for the Police Department and City Hall that would address bias and inequities perpetrated on African-American residents, people of color and other minorities within our community. continue reading

Outlines proposals from Federal CARES Act funding

(Edmonds, WA) - Edmonds Mayor Mike Nelson announced today his proposal for allocating the funds to be received by Edmonds from the Federal CARES Act.

The main focus of Nelson’s proposal is a new Business Support Grant program that would allocate up to $800,000 of the federal funds to support qualifying local small businesses through grants of up to $10,000. This program will address the heart of the economic crisis and help the most vulnerable businesses and their employees, many of whom live in our community.

“While most businesses have suffered during this economic crisis, storefront businesses that typically rely on walk-in customers and foot traffic, including those owned by people of color and women, have felt the pain the worst. Business revenue has dropped – in some cases by up to 90%,” said Nelson. continue reading

Celebrate the 16^th annual event online with speakers, photo exhibit, and virtual birding tours

(Edmonds, WA)  Renowned crow and raven specialist Kaeli Swift has been selected as the Keynote Speaker for the 2020 Puget Sound Bird Fest, which will be held online September 12-13. Dr. Swift will kick off the festivities on Saturday at 10:30am with a live interactive webinar ‘Something to Crow About’. Other online presentations and activities will follow throughout the weekend. continue reading

Edmonds residents are encouraged to submit their proposals for the chance to win up to $10,000 

Edmonds, WA - June 2, 2020. Today, the NW Innovation Resource Center announced that it is launching an Amazon Catalyst competition to discover and reward big ideas to residents in the City of Edmonds with Creative-sector innovations for the economic recovery. The contest kicks off today, and residents of Edmonds are encouraged to submit their proposals via catalyst.amazon.com/nwirc-edmondswa beginning June 1 through July 31^st, 2020.   

Amazon Catalyst competitions look to supercharge innovation by encouraging people in all fields to think big, invent solutions to real-world problems, and make a positive impact on the world. In a post-COVID 19 world, big ideas will be needed to help communities recover and reignite local businesses. The competition is open to all residents over the age of 18 who live in zip codes associated with the City of Edmonds. Winning proposals will be selected by a panel of judges from NWIRC and awarded a total of up to $10,000 in prizes. Details can be found on catalyst.amazon.com/nwirc-edmondswa. continue reading

Mayor establishes Equity and Justice Advisory Task Force

(Edmonds, WA) - Black Lives Matter to me. Black lives matter in Edmonds and in this country. We cannot continue to allow any members of our community to be oppressed by systemic injustice and violence.

Those of us in local government must take a hard look within, listen, have honest conversations, be open to real change, and take tangible actions to support our African-American residents.

That is why today I am announcing the formation of an Equity and Justice Advisory Task Force to help identify and correct issues of systemic and implicit bias within city operations in response to the aggressions and inequities perpetrated on African-Americans around the nation and in our region. Their work will be focused on recommending resulting policies, procedures, or other changes that may be needed within our Police Department and at City Hall. press release

You can view Mayor Mike's May 21st Town Hall here.

Friday, May 22, 2020 - Sunday, May 24, 2020 ~ Flags are at Half-Staff in memory of victims of the Coronavirus.

Monday, May 25, 2020 ~ Flags are at Half-Staff in Recognition of Memorial Day. This federal holiday is in remembrance of the people who died while serving in the country's armed forces.

After initial success last year, “I Am Edmonds” available again

(Edmonds, WA) - The Edmonds Diversity Commission seeks to counter social distancing by reopening the “I am Edmonds. This is my Story” project, with the aim of encouraging meaningful community connections during these challenging times. With the Diversity Film Series cut short, the 4^th of July Parade and many community events canceled, reopening the Diversity Commission’s Facebook page “I am Edmonds” will provide a virtual platform for community members to express themselves creatively and come together in hope. read more

Friday, May 15, 2020 ~ Flags are at Half-Staff in honor of Police Officers Memorial Day. Presidential Proclamation

Position will develop program to effectively connect local residents to services

(Edmonds, WA) - After an extensive hiring process and regional search, the City of Edmonds is pleased to announce the hiring of Mindy Woods as the City’s first Human Services Program Manager. This new half-time position was the result of a proposal by City Councilmembers last year which led to its inclusion in the 2020 budget to support Edmonds residents in need and get them connected to public and private services.

Mindy is no stranger to Edmonds. A local resident, she currently serves on the City’s Diversity Commission and, in some ways, has functioned as a volunteer, go-to connector for many groups and organizations. In addition, Mindy serves on numerous human services-related boards and volunteer organizations locally, regionally and even nationally. She is very well connected in the greater Edmonds community, all of which made her a natural choice for this position. read more

Low-noise, wayside track horns will lose power during project work

(Edmonds, WA) - The City of Edmonds Dayton Street Pump Station project enters a new phase Tuesday, May 12 – Thursday, May 21 when crews will install a new storm line across Dayton Avenue at Railroad Avenue.

The work requires crews to cut into an old abandoned waterline that holds the power to the new low-noise, wayside track horns that signal freight and passenger trains as they cross Dayton Street and Main Street.

Contractors estimate they can complete the work in 10 days, and then will reconnect the wayside horns.

During the construction period, in accordance with federal safety guidelines, all trains will sound their train horns day and night as they approach and leave these intersections. The City is working with the contractor to see if they can reconnect the wayside horns at night. Residents should consider keeping their windows closed at night to muffle the noise. press release

Most areas reopen with changes, other facilities remain closed
 
(Edmonds, WA) – In alignment with Governor Jay Inslee’s “Stay Home - Stay Healthy” order and phased reopening, on May 5 the City of Edmonds will reopen park facilities that have been closed recently. These include the Fishing Pier, Marina Beach Park and parking lot, and the Brackett’s Landing North parking lot. Due to COVID-19, however, social distancing and safety guidelines will still need to be observed by parks visitors.

“I am happy to share that we got the go-ahead to open some of our most popular open spaces in Edmonds,” said Mayor Mike Nelson. “They will look a bit different. These are the steps we need to take for the health and safety of our residents and visitors, and to improve access for those who have difficulty walking.” read more

With construction limited or slowed due to COVID-19, the City is hard at work to help builders know which projects in Edmonds can move forward and to plan for the extra time needed to complete projects. Find out more here.

Mayor Urges Elected Officials to Follow Governor’s Orders

(Edmonds, WA) –Like many of you, I was disappointed following the April 21^st Governor’s Economic Recovery presentation because he did not say what we all really were hoping to hear: “The virus is dead. Washingtonians, go back to work and live your lives!” But, of course, he could not say that. read more

Committee to focus on clean air, clean water, clean land

(Edmonds, WA) - Mayor Mike Nelson announced the formation of the Mayor’s Conservation Advisory Committee today to help fulfill his commitment to preserving our environment and enhancing the quality of life in Edmonds. read more

Your creative energy and toilet paper tubes could earn you a Revelations Yogurt gift card

The Edmonds Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department announces an Earth Day contest and asks that you bring your creative energy to re-use your toilet paper tubes. Perhaps you will create an animal or a bracelet? A favorite character or even something you find in nature. Will your creation have movable parts? Share your creativity with Edmonds by entering your work of art into the contest.

Media Release | Sample Artwork

Same name – new, smaller, safer design

(Edmonds, WA) - The Edmonds Historical Museum and the City of Edmonds are pleased to announce the annual Garden Market will open on May 9, 2020. It won’t look the same. Due to the COVID-19 public health emergency, the Market will adhere to the health/safety requirements of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Snohomish County Health District, and the City of Edmonds. read more

Click Here to see more info on the City of Edmonds COVID Financial Plan

Pilot Project Starts Friday, April 17^th, Noon
 
(Edmonds, WA) - Edmonds Mayor Mike Nelson, with support of Acting Edmonds Police Chief Jim Lawless, announced the limited closure of Sunset Avenue North to through traffic and parking as of Friday, April 17, 2020 at Noon. Sunset Avenue will be closed from Edmonds Street to Caspers Street. Local traffic – motorists bound for residences along this stretch of Sunset – is permitted. 

“Due to increased crowds, people have been walking in the street to maintain six feet social distance, while drivers are passing through on this already narrow road. With the nicer weather, increased numbers of vehicles and pedestrians were leading to a situation where it seemed like just a matter of time before someone got hurt,” said Edmonds Mayor Mike Nelson. 

We expect to see even bigger crowds on the walkway as the weather turns nice. 

This limited closure goes into effect Friday at Noon and is considered a pilot project. It may be altered based on what happens in the coming weeks.

Press Release

City Council Must Still Confirm

(Edmonds, WA) – Edmonds Mayor Mike Nelson announced today that Acting Edmonds Police Chief Jim Lawless will be the City’s next permanent Police Chief, pending City Council confirmation.

“One measure of a person’s worth is how they perform during a crisis,” Edmonds Mayor Mike Nelson said. “This has been a crisis like no other. Acting Chief Lawless has been a steady, firm hand during a time of uncertainty. I can’t imagine a person better suited for this job than Jim.” read more

Keep this Edmonds tradition alive and adopt one of 141 flower baskets or one of 68 corner parks.

(Edmonds, WA) - The City of Edmonds’ popular Adopt-A-Flower Basket or Corner Park program of 2020 is officially underway and filling up quickly! Your donation helps to support the City’s annual Flower Program which enhances the beauty of Edmonds. read more | Edmonds Flower Program

Three Local Non-Profits to Receive Funds
 
(Edmonds, WA) Recognizing the enormous impact COVID-19 has had on local businesses, our senior population and our most vulnerable residents, Edmonds Mayor Mike Nelson announced the creation of a Community and Economic Relief Fund from which the City of Edmonds will make available $200,000 to nonprofit community organizations. read more

Grants Awarded for Arts, Culture or Other Events

(Edmonds, WA) Looking ahead to 2021, the City of Edmonds has opened up its annual application period for Tourism Promotion Grants for events, programs and activities scheduled for next year. The grants are funded by the City’s lodging tax revenue, based on the recommendations of the Edmonds Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC). These recommendations, reviewed and approved by City Council in the annual City of Edmonds budget, include awarding grants to organizations that produce and promote arts, culture or other events or programs that bring visitors to Edmonds. Applications for 2021 are now available and will be accepted until 4:30 pm, May 29, 2020. read more

On March 24, 2020, the Governor issued Proclamation 20-28 (Open Public Meetings Act and Public Records Act) to, among other things, temporarily prohibit in-person public attendance at meetings subject to the OPMA. To ensure that the public has the necessary means to continue their critical oversight role of Edmonds City Council meetings, the City will continue to live-stream its Council meetings on its website and Government Access Channels 21 (Comcast) and 39 (Frontier). In addition, the City is temporarily providing for call-in capability for the public to listen by phone. The dial-in number is (712) 775-7270. Enter Access Code 583224 to be connected. Furthermore, an additional email address has been created for the public to submit audience comments to the City Council: publiccomment@edmondswa.gov. These additional measures will be in place during the period in which in-person attendance is not allowed under the Governor’s order.

Business Violations of the Stay-at-Home Order can be reported here: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/09349a1c56844b539fea1c2cabd16d56

More info at: https://coronavirus.wa.gov/spread-facts

To report an individual(s) violation call 425-407-3999

(Edmonds, WA) – The City of Edmonds, partnering with local business leaders and business organizations, is proud to announce a new, easier way to keep Edmonds residents informed and businesses in business. Today, the City unveiled a new site, LoveEdmonds to connect home-bound residents to business and services that are providing take-out, delivery, online shopping, gift cards and/or “shop-forward” options. read more

EDMONDS HIRES NEW PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER

(Edmonds, WA) - The City of Edmonds is pleased to announce the hiring of a new half-time Public Information Officer/Communications Strategist. Jamie Holter started Tuesday, March 17, 2020.

Jamie has worked in state and county communications for more than 15 years and is thrilled to bring her wealth of experience to our City. read more

Meeting Set for 3 p.m. Friday, March 27, 2020

(Edmonds, WA) – Edmonds Mayor Mike Nelson has called a special Edmonds City Council meeting for 3 p.m. on Friday, March 27, 2020. He will ask Council to consider two actions. One will be to revise the amendments to Edmonds City Code (ECC) Chapter 6.60 (“Disaster Preparation, Emergency Coordination, and Civil Emergencies”) approved by City Council in Special Session last Sunday, March 22, 2020. Related to that Chapter, the Mayor will specifically ask for Council support for an amendment to Section 6.60.090 (which lays out items that could potentially be invoked by order of a mayor in case of emergency) by removing Subsection G related to carrying or possessing firearms with intent to do bodily harm. 

He will also ask Council to temporarily lift the plastic bag ban at ECC Chapter 6.80 to allow grocery stores to use plastic bags for the safer handling and take-out of merchandise. 

This meeting will be conducted virtually and live­-streamed on the city’s website and on TV21. Council Chambers will not be open, in compliance with Governor Inslee’s temporary, partial suspension of the Open Public Meetings Act to prevent the gathering of people in a single location.

Members of the public are welcome to comment via email at council@edmondswa.gov | Press Release

(Edmonds, WA) - In continued observance of City Council’s earlier decision, and in compliance with the Mayor’s Stay at Home order, tonight’s Edmonds City Council meeting will be conducted virtually and streamed live on the City’s website. Council Chambers will be open to the public, as is required by law. We ask that visitors sit at least six feet apart. Neither the Mayor nor Councilmembers will be in Chambers. 

Public comment for the meeting may be sent to City Council via email at council@edmondswa.gov. read more

Press Conference at 2:30pm in Plaza in Front of Public Safety
Complex, 250 5^th Avenue North, Edmonds 

(Edmonds, WA) - Mayor Mike Nelson, joined by Interim Police Chief Jim Lawless, will hold a press conference at 2:30pm today regarding his Order, issued yesterday, on COVID-19-related precautions and stay-at-home order now in effect. The press conference will be held outside in the plaza in front of the Edmonds Public Safety Complex.

Members of the press are encouraged to attend instead of making direct contact to the Mayor’s Office today. After remarks by both Mayor Nelson and Interim Chief Lawless, questions from the press will be entertained. 

For continuing information about the status of local COVID-19-related developments, you may visit the City’s website at: http://www.edmondswa.gov/coronavirus.html