Focus on Redmond - Winter 2018

Focus on Redmond - Winter 2018

Volume XXXII No. 4 Winter 2018

Redmond

The Proposed Biennial Budget Aligns with CommunityValues

2017-2018 Commmunity in Focus

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invest in our employees through training, compensation, and succession planning to allow us to better serve the community Safety Maintain our safe community and enhance community character Vibrant Economy Support Redmond’s robust local economy, businesses, and job growth The City’s commitment to community involvement on priority projects and the budget continues through the Civic Results Team made up of twelve community members; the most we’ve had in any biennium. Their involvement and feedback guided the draft budget toward programs the residents and businesses value most. To set Redmond up for a bright, safe and healthy future, this budget focuses on our environmental efforts through increasing our tree canopy, creating a position to concentrate on our Environmental Sustainability Strategic Plan and creating zero waste initiatives. A capital investment of $500,000 annually, a 66% increase, will be committed to the ongoing goal of providing affordable housing for Redmond residents. In this year-end issue of Focus,

On Tuesday evening, October 2, 2018,

Preventing FoodWaste

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I presented the proposed 2019-

2020 Biennial Budget to the Redmond City Council. As Redmond

Be Prepared for WinterWeather

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Mayor John Marchione

enters one of the most transformative phases of its evolution, the budget prepares us to support this transition by building on the vision for managing growth, connection to the community, and fiscal health. The biennial budget utilizes the six priorities identified by the community in 2008 and re-confirmed with the residents by annual surveys. The priorities and the goals for each are: Diverse & Connected Community Enhance our outreach and inclusive support of our global and connected community Infrastructure Preserve what we have to help prepare us for the future Responsible Government Improve processes, systems, and Clean and Green Continue to advance our environmental stewardship

Sound Transit Light Rail Update

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Council Notes

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Parks & Recreation

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we have reflected on a few of the transformative priority projects that have been completed in the 2017- 2018 budget cycle and the positive impact they have each had on our community.

John Marchione Mayor, City of Redmond

MeetYour City Council Redmond has seven councilmembers who are elected by voters to adopt the City budget, establish law and policy, approve appropriations and contracts, levy taxes, and grant franchises.

Your Community in Focus Take a look back as we revisit significant milestones over the 2017-2018 budget cycle.

Downtown Park Redmond’s new signature park Opened September 15, 2018

Downtown Park is a new place for community members to gather and celebrate. It will host special events, arts, music, and fun. The enhanced pedestrian environment in and around the park will stimulate economic activity in the neighborhood. Couplet Conversion Downtown streets convert to two-way travel Project completed October 10, 2017 The two-way street conversion project makes Downtown easier to navigate, more accessible, and connected whether you are driving, walking, biking, or taking transit, making Downtown a more attractive destination and gathering place.

Jeralee Anderson Position #6

Angela Birney Position #5 President

David Carson Position #7 Vice-President

Steve Fields Position #2

Hank Margeson Position #3

Hank Myers Position #1

Tanika Padhye Position #4

Learn more about your Redmond City Council at redmond.gov/council .

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Customer Service Center A new and improved customer experience Launched Spring 2018

Neighborhood Conversations A new way to meet with elected officials Five meetings took place in 2017-2018 Having originated in 2016, neighborhood conversations welcome community members to join their neighbors and elected officials & share what’s on their mind. Locations change reaching various neighborhoods around the City. Increase in Affordable Housing A new tool to create more afforable housing Ordinace approved by Council July 18, 2017 The Multifamily Property Tax Exemption Program (MFTE) is one of many ways the City incentivizes the construction of new affordable units. In one year, over 80 new affordable dwelling units have been created through this program at greater levels of affordability.

A new Customer Service Center at City Hall assists visitors with services, information, and meeting room accommodations. Additionally, a service request tool was launched on the City’s website and via a mobile app called “Your Redmond.” Cultural Inclusion Resolution City Council and the Mayor prioritize inclusive practices Resolution passed January 17, 2017 The resolution affirms the City’s commitment to welcoming and engaging with all community members and visitors. The City is committed to the principles of inclusiveness and incorporating diversity into every part of its operations.

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Play Tic-Tac-Toe to Reduce Food Waste!

Win a FREE Chinook Book!

Nearly 25% of the food we buy doesn’t get eaten. Help our environment and save money by keeping food from going to waste! How to participate: Try new ways to keep food from going to waste. 1.Cross off three in a row on this board. 2.Send a photo of your board to [email protected] . 3.Win a free 12-month Chinook

Make an “eat first” box

Create a meal plan and grocery list with quantities needed

Track what you have in the fridge using a whiteboard

or shelf for foods that need to be eaten soon

Other ways you are preventing food waste:

Freeze what you can’t finish in meal-sized portions

I/We pledge to keep food from going to waste

Book app subscription with coupons to over 600 local

businesses (supplies are limited and will be distributed in January 2019).

Try out a new recipe that uses leftovers/ingredients you have on-hand

Share excess food with friends, family and neighbors

Start a weekly “leftovers night”

Check off everything? Get entered to win a free cooking class at Redmond PCC.

City Hall Attains EnviroStars “Champion” Level

business. This award recognizes the City’s efforts to reduce waste through recycling and composting; conserve water through irrigation and drought-resistant landscaping; and incentivize the use of alternative modes of transportation for employees. Redmond City Hall is also an Energy Star certified building and a participant in Puget Sound Energy’s Green Power Program, and it has a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) silver

accreditation. The EnviroStars program provides a one-stop hub for businesses to get assistance and recognition for environmentally sustainable actions. EnviroStars links businesses to local programs and incentives that help them take green actions. Participating businesses receive recognition for their efforts that protect their workplace, the community, and the environment.

Mayor John Marchione and Tally Young

As part of a regional green business program, Redmond City Hall has received the distinction of a Champion Level EnviroStars

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Be Prepared for Winter Weather The City of Redmond is committed to keeping roadways safe and passable, no matter what winter has in store for us. Whether it’s clearing trees and limbs that fall in a windstorm, plowing snow, or pre-treating roads before an overnight frost, our crews are ready to respond around the clock.

SNOW & ICE We use a preemptive approach whenever possible. When an overnight freeze is forecast that could result in slippery roads for the morning commute, we apply liquid calcium de-icer to prevent frost from adhering to the road surface. If the snow starts falling, our four large snow plows clear arterial roadways while applying mixtures of calcium chloride, road salt, and sand, depending on surface conditions. To avoid road closures, we clear one lane in each direction of all priority plow routes before coming back and clearing the rest of the road. We always plow snow from left to right to avoid creating large piles in the center of roads. Please be aware that we only plow neighborhood streets after all priority plow routes are completely cleared. These routes prioritize access to emergency facilities, schools, and routes in and out of town. They can be viewed at redmond.gov/SnowIce .

HOW YOU CAN HELP • Avoid driving or plan ahead! • Allow extra time, and bring warm clothes and emergency supplies. • Familiarize yourself with our priority plow route map so you know the best way to get where you need to go. • Leave plenty of room for trucks to operate. Material spreaders can distribute sand and de-icers across three lanes at once. While plowing from left to right is the most efficient way to clear roads, it can result in piles of snow along the edges of roadways. We ask homeowners to clear these piles from their driveways and private roads so our plows can continue to work efficiently.

WIND EVENTS Our staff arborists work year-round to identify and remove trees that pose a risk of falling in the road or on sidewalks. However, as last winter proved, even healthy trees can fall or drop limbs when faced with strong winds. When this happens, our crews will respond immediately to secure the area and clear the debris from the roads and sidewalks.

HOW YOU CAN HELP Trees and limbs that fall on overhead utility lines can only be removed by licensed contractors. This ensures the safety of the public and our workers. Never approach or touch a downed wire! When a private tree falls, our crews will remove it from the right of way to keep roads and sidewalks safe and useable. However, property owners are responsible for removing the debris from their trees. Please avoid placing debris in the roadway, as this can cause street flooding and slows the progress of our street sweepers.

SAFETY REMINDERTIPS It’s also an important time of year to share these reminders with your neighbors, friends, and family: • Do not use BBQ grills indoors • Put new batteries in your smoke detectors and CO2 alarms • Have flashlights on hand with new batteries

STAY INFORMED

Follow @CityofRedmond for road closure and winter weather response View Redmond’s priority plow route map at redmond.gov/SnowIce Stay current on power outages at pse.com/outage/outage-map

Report any issues to the City by visiting redmond.gov/ServiceRequest or download the “Your Redmond“ mobile app for iOS or Android.

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Redmond Milestones Achieved

Written by Ryan Bianchi, Sound Transit

148th Elevated – Crews built falsework, or the structures built to form and pour concrete, at an elevated section of guideway over 148th Avenue NE.

Downtown Redmond Link Extension Construction will begin in 2019 to extend light rail from Overlake into southeast and Downtown Redmond, and Sound Transit reached two substantial milestones recently. Since Sound Transit completed the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) in 2011, changing conditions and project refinements meant that the EIS needed updating, which Sound Transit recently completed. You can read the updated environmental documents at soundtransit.org/RedmondLink . In September, the Sound Transit Board also officially selected an elevated light rail alignment into Downtown Redmond. Elevated tracks will increase reliability and safety by separating trains from vehicle traffic and people walking. The Board decision resulted from intensive work with the City of Redmond, King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks, King County Metro Transit, and the Washington State Department of Transportation.

East Link Extension The contractor building the section of East Link in Redmond is about to cross SR 520. Crews have started constructing the pedestrian and bike bridge that will connect Overlake Village to the SR 520 trail on the north side of the highway. Microsoft’s pedestrian bridge over SR 520 at the future Redmond Technology Station is still in design but will be built as part of station construction. Crews have begun pouring concrete for the footings and foundation for the 350-space parking garage that will be part of the Redmond Technology Station. While the station platform won’t be open for customer service until 2023, Sound Transit is working with its contractor to open the garage and bus facilities sooner.

RTS WideShot – It’s now possible to see the footprint of the future Redmond Technology Station platform and garage.

Find more information at SoundTransit.org/RedmondLink or SoundTransit.org/EastLink .

520 Guideway – A worker walks back to a staging area along SR 520. The future light rail guideway is taking shape.

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Council Notes

Biennial Budget Redmond city councilmembers are currently reviewing the proposed 2019-2020 biennial city budget. The City uses the Budgeting by Priorities process which focuses on six priorities: Vibrant Economy, Clean and Green, Diverse and Connected Community, Infrastructure, Responsible Government, and Safety. Residents chose these priorities in 2008 and have reconfirmed them annually by survey. This unique process directly involves

residents in a new way of thinking and incorporates what services our community values most. Budgeting by Priorities (BP) deploys the community’s resources to address its priority issues, so the process differs from most government budgeting practices. Instead of starting with the last year’s budget, and factoring for inflation and perhaps a few new initiatives, this budgeting process is a bottom- up approach. As a result, the City of Redmond budget focuses on community priorities and providing high-priority services, rather than its organizational structure. Redmond Lights As the days get colder and shorter, it is essential to have opportunities for our community to come together. Redmond Lights showcases the best of the holiday season with the tree lighting, luminary walk, carolers, and hot cocoa. We hope you will join us and walk the luminary-lit Sammamish

We value your feedback and suggestions!

Council email: [email protected]

Council website: redmond.gov/council

Mayor and Council email: [email protected]

River Trail with family or friends and enjoy the festive entertainment. This year, Redmond Lights festivities will be held on two evenings, December 1 and 2. On the first evening, follow along the Redmond Central Connector to Redmond Town Center and enjoy entertainment, skating, a carousel, and places to eat and shop. The second night will end with festivities at Redmond’s new Downtown Park. You won’t want to miss one of Redmond’s beloved traditions. We hope to see you there!

Six Budgeting Categories:

Let's Get Social Connect with us for up-to-date City news & events:

Stay Focused Follow along with upcoming projects: • King County Sewer Upgrade • Sound Transit Light Rail • Microsoft Campus Refresh Be the first to hear about projects that will impact you: • Road Closures

Comcast 21 & Frontier 34

@CityofRedmond

@CityofRedmond

City of Redmond

CityofRedmond

redmond.gov/enews

• Overnight Construction • Parks and Trails Impacts

City of Redmond | Office of Communications [email protected] | www.redmond.gov

Follow us on social media or subscribe to our weekly eNewsletter for the latest updates.

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FUN!

what

Winter Activities and Events Parks and Recreation

Friday, December 14

Add some whimsy to your winter! Join us for Winter Whimsy, a four-night series of whimsical performances at the Redmond Senior Center in January and February 2019. Last year’s performers included a comedian, magician, improv troupe, and more. Stay tuned for a lineup of the 2019 series! Redmond Senior Center, 8703 160th Avenue NE Cost: $3 in advance, $5 at the door All ages Thank you to our sponsors Aegis Living, Aegis of Marymoor, and Aegis of Redmond. It’s the most wonderful time of the year at the Old Fire House Teen Center! Lights will be strung and decorations hung as we prepare for the 6 th annual concert and toy drive event, SnowBall, on Friday, December 14. The concert features local teens sharing their talents in music, storytelling, comedy, and more. “It’s a great way to spread the holiday spirit with a chance for everyone to help those in our community,” shares Redmond High School Senior, Alli Riley. Entry into the event is $10 or a new toy valued at $8 or more. All toys will be donated to Hopelink’s Winter Giving Drive, supplying children in need with holiday gifts. The Old Fire House Teen Center is accessible from the parking lot on NE 80th Street between 165th and 166th Avenues NE while NE 79th Street is closed for construction.

redmond.gov/TeenEvents

January 25, February 1, 15 & 22, 7-8:30 pm

Draw, Paint, Dance and Explore! Registration for winter activities opens December 4 for Redmond residents! Our winter activities feature offerings for all ages with locations across the city. Beat the winter blues and do something fun! Find your next adventure in our online guide at redmond.gov/ParksRecreation Get your kids active! Register today for indoor play, Parent’s Night Out, or a Glow Mania birthday party package!

Register online at: redmond.gov/register

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Your Perfect Fit! Get the Flex Fit Pass today—No joining fee, low monthly rates. Mix up your fitness routine with two convenient class locations: Redmond Community Center at Marymoor Village and the Senior Center.

• 30 classes per week • Certified and experienced instructors • State-of-the-art Life Fitness cardio and strength equipment

“I chose the Flex Fit Pass because it represents a great bargain. It provides affordable access to state of the art cardio and resistance machines in the drop-in facility, and includes entry to an array of fun classes led by knowledgeable instructors. Since I signed up, I've found myself working out more than ever. Apparently, the convenience of the Flex Fit Pass is the motivation I've been looking for, especially on dark, wet winter days. ” – Phil Hutchinson, Redmond Resident

Sweat With Us! Visit redmond.gov/FlexFit

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Help make Redmond’s Parks and Trails Accessible for All Do you love parks? So do we! We are making it easier to get around our parks and trails. The City strives to build community through people, parks, and programs, and the ADA transition plan will make sure that all community members can participate in our programs and play in our parks. This effort has identified all the areas that do not meet accessibility standards, which can include parking, paths, picnic tables, playgrounds, sports fields, and more. The next steps are to prioritize which parks and trails to tackle first and then to make sure that we effectively implement the changes to make Redmond’s parks accessible to all. We have been working with a stakeholder group to get more insight into priorities, but we want to hear from you. To learn more about the effort and to provide input, please go to redmond.gov/ParksADA.

have been audited to make sure that everyone, regardless of ability, can enjoy the recreational and cultural programs we offer. 47 39 Miles of Trails Parks and

www.redmond.gov/ParksADA

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Hear From Us Sign up for our Parks and Recreation

Find Us

6505 176th Avenue NE Redmond, WA 98052 Phone: 425-556-2300

Redmond Community Center at Marymoor Village

newsletter! We’ll keep you informed twice a month about events, programs, and classes. Sign up at redmond.gov/enews

Email: [email protected] redmond.gov/CommunityCenter

16510 NE 79th Street Redmond, WA 98052 Phone: 425-556-2370 Email: [email protected] redmond.gov/teens

Old Fire House Teen Center

Join Us Volunteer Opportunities For upcoming volunteer opportunities, email Maggie Roe at [email protected] Now Hiring Apply at redmond.gov/jobs , or call our job hotline at 425-556-2121 Register for Classes and Activities Browse and register by visiting redmond.gov/register Meeting Spaces Rent out meeting rooms, cabins, park shelters, and more by visiting redmond.gov/FacilityRentals

8703 160th Avenue NE Redmond, WA 98052 Phone: 425-556-2314 Email: [email protected] redmond.gov/50plus

Redmond Senior Center

18+ Evenings & Weekends

19545 NE Redmond Road Redmond, WA 98053 Phone: 425-556-2309 redmond.gov/ FarrelMcWhirter

Farrel-McWhirter Farm Park

17535 NE 104th Street Redmond, WA 98052 Phone: 425-883-4422 redmondaquatics.org

Redmond Pool

Everyone Is Welcome Adaptive Recreation

7031 148th Avenue NE Redmond, WA 98052 Phone: 425-556-2376 Email: [email protected] redmond.gov/arts

Redmond Arts Studio

We encourage and support the participation of individuals with disabilities in our programs. For more information about inclusive and adaptive programs, contact Ali Hull at [email protected]. Scholarships We do not want financial hardship to stop you from participating in our programs. If you’re interested in learning more, please call 425-556-2300.

For more information about Redmond Parks and Recreation and hours of operation, visit redmond.gov/ParksRecreation

Register for programs at www.redmond.gov/ParksRecreation

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PRSRT STD US Postage PAID JR Mailing Services Inc.

The City of Redmond Office of the Mayor - Communications 15670 NE 85th Street PO Box 97010 Redmond WA 98073-9710

E C R W S S Postal Customer

Two Nights of

December 1 & 2

Celebrate Diverse Winter Traditions, Cultures, and Faiths.

RedmondLights.com