Public Meetings - Edmonds, Washington

The Edmonds City Council met on October 6, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included an Arbor Day proclamation, a public hearing on zoning changes for new housing in existing buildings (HB 1757), a first reading of the Mayor's Proposed 2027‑2028 Biennial Budget, and a discussion of the utility rate study. During audience comments, numerous residents urged the council to place a resolution opposing state initiatives I‑001 and I‑638 on a future agenda. A motion to add that item to the October 13 agenda failed 4‑3. The council also heard concerns about the South County Fire bond measure (Proposition 1) and the budget. The meeting concluded with an executive session (litigation) and adjournment at 8:56 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved the City Council meeting minutes for September 8 and September 22, 2026. - Approved an ordinance amending authorized employee positions (second reading). - Approved claim checks and wire payments. - Approved the Legal Assessment Committee Report for 2026. - Approved payroll and benefit checks, direct deposit, and wire payments for September 16–30, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Nora Carlson (Edmonds resident) urged the council to pass a resolution opposing state initiatives I‑001 and I‑638, noting that eight nearby city councils had already done so. She referenced Resolution 1381, which declares Edmonds an equitable, safe, and inviting community. - Jerry (non‑resident, speaking for a transgender child and grandchild) said his family fears speaking for themselves due to the initiatives and that the council's silence has a negative effect on LGBTQ+ residents. He asked the council to place a resolution on the agenda and vote publicly. - Laura Hine (Edmonds resident) read RCW 29B.45.10 to argue that the mayor's prohibition on public comment about ballot propositions was improperly applied; she stated the law allows councils to adopt resolutions supporting or opposing ballot propositions after proper notice and equal opportunity for opposing views. - Marlene (Edmonds resident) argued that I‑001 would endanger students seeking help from trusted adults and that I‑638 would require all girls to undergo biological sex verification to participate in sports, harming both trans and cis girls. She urged the council to pass a resolution opposing the initiatives. - Lindsay Lynch (Edmonds resident, 26 years) shared that her transgender son and his friends have been affected by the debate. She said I‑001 would force teachers to disclose information to potential abusers, and I‑638 would discriminate against all girls by requiring proof of sex. - Jessica Brady (Edmonds resident, teacher, mother of a trans daughter) said the initiatives would create barriers for all girls, especially uninsured ones (30,000 girls aged 6–18 in Washington lack health insurance). She stated medical professionals, coaches, teachers, and mental health professionals oppose the initiatives. - Diana Nielsen (Edmonds resident) emphasized that the measures are about discrimination and erasing vulnerable people; she asked the council to communicate that all residents are wanted and valued. - Julie Hurdle (Edmonds resident, lifelong resident, cis woman) said her 12‑year‑old daughter was horrified the initiatives are on the ballot, and that banning trans kids is bad for all kids and all girls. - Laura Edelstein (Edmonds resident, licensed mental health counselor, parent of a first‑grader) disagreed with Councilmember Olson's statement that the initiatives have no direct city impact. She noted the school district serves over 20,000 students, and I‑638 could require kindergartners to prove their sex, while I‑001 would allow schools to disclose students' private information to parents without consent. She urged the council to pass a resolution. - William Bartig (Brier resident, new Edmonds homeowner) said silence is a choice and asked the council to put forward a resolution. - Unnamed speaker (husband of Lindsay Lynch) shared the personal journey of supporting their transgender son, emphasizing that the issue is about the kids themselves. - Layla (via Zoom, Edmonds resident, mother of two, former student athlete) reported that trans and gender‑non‑conforming community members avoid the Edmonds market because of trans‑exclusionary activists. She said the mayor and Councilmember Olson have been dismissive, and that the council's silence sends a clear negative message. - Bill Krepik (Woodway resident) warned that the South County Fire executives' presentation (scheduled for later in the meeting) was a PR effort to hide the true cost of the $420 million capital bond (Proposition 1). He listed questions about administrative staff growth (120% in 5 years), the need for such a large construction package when 85% of calls are medical, top wages averaging $260,000 for uniform personnel, and lack of performance metrics. Discussion Items - Arbor Day Proclamation – The mayor read the proclamation declaring October 24 and November 7 as Arbor Day events. Staff (Deb Powers, Jen Leach, Deborah Dill) highlighted that Edmonds is planting nearly 40 trees at five sites, giving away over 450 trees, and has been a Tree City USA for 13 years. - Mayor's Finance Update – The mayor deferred the full update, referencing the previous night's budget presentation. - Received for Filing – The council accepted the Parks Q3 Capital Projects Report and the Planning Board Quarterly Report (Q3) without discussion. - Public Hearing – Zoning Changes for New Housing in Existing Buildings (HB 1757) – Planning Director Mike Cluxton explained that House Bill 1757 requires cities to allow conversion of commercial buildings to residential in commercial, mixed‑use, or residential zones. The city must define “major pedestrian corridors” to protect ground‑floor commercial uses; staff identified corridors aligning with the 2024‑2044 Comprehensive Plan. No public comments were made. The hearing was closed. - Mayor's Proposed 2027‑2028 Biennial Budget (First Reading) – The mayor outlined the budget process: council questions should be submitted to the Legislative Executive Assistant in advance of the October 13 meeting. He noted variables (prosecutor search, bargaining, salary commission, insurance, and automated traffic enforcement assumptions). The budget uses conservative estimates (5% of tested speeding violations, 63% payment rate, $91 per ticket). Staffing: net‑zero increase except for a court addition (3.3 FTE) for camera enforcement and a wastewater treatment plant addition (outside general fund). Unmet needs include a deputy finance director, economic development, emergency management, safety coordinator, crime analyst, and grant management. The mayor highlighted a $4.5 million deficit that was closed via temporary utility tax increase, reallocation of overhead, and conservative staffing. The ending fund balance is projected to be positive, but a fiscal cliff looms in 2029 when the utility tax sunsets. Councilmember Chan raised concerns about accounting treatments (interfund loan, accrual vs. cash). Councilmember Barnett requested a cash‑liquidity view alongside accrual. Several councilmembers praised the improved budget book format. - Discussion of Utility Rate Study – Consultant Chris Gonzalez (FCS Bowman) presented findings: water rates need 9.75% annual increases (2027–2029) driven by wholesale water costs from Everett (15.5% yearly) and capital replacement. Sewer rates: 7.5% in 2027, then 7% yearly through 2032, with $87 million in planned capital (51% cash, 15% partner contributions, 33% debt). Stormwater rates: 6.5% for 2027‑2028, 5% in 2029, then 4% through 2032. A typical single‑family bill would increase about 8% annually (except 2029 due to utility tax drop). Edmonds currently ranks 4th highest in the comparison; after 2027 increases, it would be 3rd highest. The utility tax accounts for part of the difference. Staff noted a deferred payment to Everett ($3 million) and that 2% of the water increase and 1% of the sewer increase come from shifting general fund overhead to utilities. Councilmember Nand asked about assistance programs for low‑income and senior residents; staff said applications are accepted year‑round. Councilmember Payne requested analysis of reducing the utility tax on water to offset rate increases. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda – Approved unanimously. - Motion to Add Resolution on I‑001 and I‑638 – Motion by Councilmember Nand to place a public hearing and vote on a resolution opposing the initiatives on the October 13 agenda. Seconded. Failed on a roll‑call vote (4‑3). Voting yes: Eck, Payne, Nand. Voting no: Chen, Barnett, Olson, Dodge (Council President). - Public Hearing – HB 1757 Zoning Changes – Closed. No further action taken. - Budget Process – Council agreed to submit questions to the Legislative Executive Assistant by October 12, with answers prepared for the October 13 meeting. Amendments will follow a similar compilation process. - Utility Rate Study – Council directed staff to bring back an analysis of the impact of reducing the water utility tax from 20% to keep ratepayer bills flat, for consideration at the next meeting. The council will consider adoption of the proposed rate increases (2027‑2029) at a future date. - Executive Session – Conducted from approximately 8:36 PM to 8:56 PM pursuant to RCW 42.30.110(1)(i) to discuss litigation or potential litigation. No action was taken.

The Edmonds Planning Board convened on September 23, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Brackett Room of City Hall. The meeting included a public hearing on the 2027–2032 Capital Facilities Plan (CFP) and Capital Improvement Program (CIP), discussion of the Findings, Conclusions, and Recommendations (FCR) document, and planning for upcoming meetings. The board deferred adoption of the FCR to allow further review. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (September 9, 2026): Approved with an amendment correcting the attendance record: Judy Gladstone was absent (noted as excused), and Bristol Ellington was present (John Jesson was not present). Motion carried with one abstention (Judy). Public Comments & Testimony - No audience members or online participants provided comments during the public comment period or the public hearing. Discussion Items - Public Hearing for 2027–2032 Capital Facilities Plan (CFP) and Capital Improvement Program (CIP): Deputy Parks Director Shannon Burley presented an overview of park projects, emphasizing repair priorities, Shell Creek Restoration, ADA improvements, playground replacement, and Yost Pool repairs. City Engineer Mike Delilah presented the public works/utilities CIP, noting 12 projects added, 103 revised, and 11 removed/completed. Both departments highlighted that REIT funds are sufficient for the first two years but staffing shortages and operating budget constraints remain challenges. - Planning Board Member Concerns: Several board members expressed concern about the long-term infrastructure risk and the lack of a clear long-term fiscal plan. Member Nick noted that the ability to execute planned projects has diminished over three years and urged council to address the fiscal crisis. Member Lauren asked for better documentation of the effects of underfunding and clearer criteria for project prioritization. The board discussed the need to communicate these concerns to city council. - FCR Document (Findings, Conclusions, and Recommendations): The board decided to postpone adoption of the FCR to allow members time to review it in depth. They agreed to add discussion of the FCR as an agenda item for the October 14 meeting. Key Outcomes - FCR Adoption Deferred: The Planning Board will continue discussion of the FCR at the next regular meeting on October 14, 2026. The board’s recommendation to city council is expected after that meeting. - Upcoming Meeting Schedule: The November 11 (Veterans Day) and November 25 (before Thanksgiving) meetings are canceled. A potential special meeting on November 18 may be added if needed. - Public Hearing for Family Burial Grounds: The board discussed whether to hold a public hearing; no final decision was made. Chair will coordinate with staff to determine agenda inclusion. - Tree Code Extension: City Council voted to extend the temporary tree code for six months, allowing additional public engagement. The code will return to the Planning Board for a permanent ordinance. - Election of Officers: Members were reminded to consider running for chair or vice chair for the upcoming year; nominations will be taken at a future meeting.

The agenda listed the meeting as occurring on September 23, 2026, but the transcript timestamp records the meeting as taking place on September 24, 2026 at 20:15 UTC. Agenda items included approval of minutes, audience comments, and a public hearing for the 2027-2032 Capital Facilities Plan (CFP) and Capital Improvement Program (CIP). The only content captured in the transcript was one audience comment. Public Comments & Testimony - Barb Steller, a resident of Edmonds, spoke in favor of tree reporting.

The Edmonds City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers (250 5th Ave North, Edmonds, WA). The agenda included a National Lights Out proclamation, the Mayor's Finance Update, audience comments, the consent calendar, and council business on the city's staffing ordinance, tree code updates, and an ordinance restructuring advisory bodies. Deliberation was extensive on the tree code and Title 10 advisory-body items, with no final votes taken on those items; the staffing ordinance was scheduled for action on October 6, 2026. Presentations - Proclamation – National Lights Out: The Mayor's Office presented the proclamation, noting that between one and two billion birds are killed each year in the U.S. and encouraging reduced lighting during migration. - Mayor's Finance Update: The Mayor reported that the annual audit was launched with a September 14 call, and the city will hold its first in-person meeting with auditors on October 5, 2026, with a timeline expected at that time. Public Comments & Testimony - A speaker identifying as an organizer for Fortify Washington expressed support for "No Hate in Washington State." - A speaker representing a group that has been reviewing the draft tree code since January 2026 noted that their recommendations and topic papers had been sent to the council. The speaker urged the council to incorporate climate science best practices and to consider establishing a group of verifiable climate experts who would be regularly available to advise council and staff, emphasizing that climate impacts are far-reaching and that Edmonds is a shoreline community. Consent Calendar - Received for Filing: The July 2026 Monthly Financial Report (second reading) and written public comments from August 29 – September 17, 2026, were received for filing. - Consent Agenda Approved: The consent calendar was approved as a block, including: City Council meeting minutes (September 9, 11, and 15, 2026 study session, special meeting, Finance, PPW, and PSPHSP committee minutes); Amendment 1 to the 2026 Summer Market Event Agreement for the Winter Market; the September 1–15, 2026 payroll benefits and earnings reports; approval to terminate the construction contract for the Olympic View Drive Pavement Preservation Project (second reading); and the proposed interlocal agreement regarding the Lynnwood Neighborhood Center (second reading). Discussion Items - Ordinance Amending Authorized Employee Positions (First Reading): Staff discussed the city's new supervisor team, noting that one supervisor position remains vacant while two have been filled. A council member moved to schedule the ordinance on the consent agenda for approval at the October 6, 2026, City Council meeting; the mayor restated the motion on the floor. The council noted this would allow implementation within the next couple of council meetings. - Tree Code / Development Code Amendments (Ordinance 4411 and AMD2026-0001): Staff requested additional time to provide the council with greater context for the tree code updates than could be provided by the meeting date, noting the project scope is not slated to change. Council members discussed the Major Pedestrian Corridor Map, including the need to ensure the map reflects updates to city zoning; raised concerns about allowing ground-floor commercial and mixed-use along green lines "without really clear definitions"; questioned whether state rules could change next year; and expressed wariness about activating homes in certain areas for other purposes, describing impacts as "a drop here, a drop there, not all at once." A council member also cited the Edmonds Waterfront Connector, where a crowd of approximately 300 people said they had never heard about the project, as a reason to invest in public education. Staff offered to bring options back to the next meeting if the council desired. The council took no decisions or actions on the tree code item. - Ordinance Amending ECC Title 10 – Advisory Bodies (Second Reading): The Mayor's Office reviewed the engagement process, which began in May 2026, included board and commission members, directors, and community members, involved approximately seven meetings and surveys of council members, and examined how other cities structure advisory bodies. Council members raised concerns about the ordinance's effect on council appointment authority, noting that the council has traditionally appointed members to boards and commissions to ensure a diversity of opinions, and cautioning that a mayor with one strong ideological point of view could control all appointments. Discussion included creating a subcommittee of no more than three council members representing different viewpoints, and possibly moving the effective date to November 10, 2026, to allow time to fully incorporate council and public feedback. One council member cautioned against pushing the item to December 1 so that basic Title 10 housekeeping items can still be completed by year end. No final vote was taken during the recorded discussion; the item remained under council consideration. Key Outcomes - The ordinance amending authorized employee positions was placed on the consent agenda for approval at the October 6, 2026, City Council meeting. - The tree code update received no action; staff will return with additional context, and the project scope remains unchanged. - The Title 10 advisory-body ordinance was not adopted at this meeting; the council discussed a possible November 10, 2026, date and a three-member subcommittee as next steps, and directed no final action.

The agenda for this meeting was originally published for September 15, 2026, at 3:00 PM, but the user has specified that the meeting took place on September 16, 2026, at 6:30 PM. No minutes or transcript were provided, so this summary is limited to the agenda items listed. Three items were scheduled for discussion. Discussion Items - Yost Pool – Cascade Swim Club Agreement (First Reading) – Parks and Recreation staff presented a proposed agreement with Cascade Swim Club for operation of Yost Pool. The item was allocated 25 minutes for discussion. - Approval to Terminate Construction Contract for the Olympic View Drive Pavement Preservation Project (First Reading) – Engineering staff requested authorization to terminate the existing construction contract for the Olympic View Drive overlay project. The item was allocated 15 minutes. - Council Discussion on Transportation Impact Fees and Revisions to Section 3.36 of Edmonds City Code (Third Reading) – The City Council Office led a discussion on proposed updates to transportation impact fees and associated code revisions. The item was allocated 30 minutes and included an updated methodology report and a revised ordinance. Key Outcomes No votes, decisions, or directives are recorded in the available materials. The meeting consisted of first and third readings, suggesting that these items were brought forward for committee deliberation before any formal action.

The City Council held a special meeting on September 16, 2026 (originally scheduled for September 15, 2026 per the agenda) to consider and vote on a personal services agreement with Ahlers Cressman & Sleight PLLC for legal representation in disputes related to the Edmonds Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) Phase 6 Carbon Recovery Project. The meeting lasted approximately 25 minutes, ending at 2:55 PM local time. Discussion Items - Approval of Personal Services Agreement with Ahlers Cressman & Sleight PLLC – Council considered a motion to authorize the mayor to sign the attached agreement with Ahlers Cressman & Sleight PLLC, a construction litigation law firm, to assist the city in resolving disputes with Ameresco concerning the WWTP project. City Attorney Terrady presented the recommendation, stating the firm is one of the best construction litigation firms in the Seattle area and was identified through consultations with trusted sources who have observed their performance in similar settings. Council members discussed several aspects: - State guarantee & funding: Councilmember Olson asked about a perceived state guarantee and why the state is not funding the legal proceedings. Terrady clarified the guarantee is from Ameresco, not the state, and that the Department of Enterprise Services acts as the city's contracting agent but does not provide legal services. Attorney fees may be recoverable from the prevailing party. - Source of funds: Councilmember Barnett asked which funds would pay the legal costs. Terrady confirmed they would be a utility expense and shared with partner cities under the existing wastewater treatment sharing agreement. - Cost controls & budgeting: Councilmember Barnett requested information on cost controls and reporting. Terrady explained that the firm cannot provide a budget initially but will do so after getting up to speed. The council can terminate services at any time for quality or cost reasons. He agreed to ask for an estimate timeline. - Experience with gasification projects: Councilmember Chen asked about the firm's experience with wastewater gasification projects. Terrady noted that since this is the first such project, no firm has direct experience, but the lead attorney successfully represented Pierce County in a WWTP dispute near Chambers Bay. - Public and partner city communication: Councilmember Chen inquired about communication with the public and partner cities. Terrady stated that Public Works Director Andy Rayum has been keeping partner cities informed, but he could not speak to the extent of that communication. - 5% handling fee on advanced costs: Councilmember Olson raised concerns about a 5% handling fee on costs advanced by the firm when billing is delayed. Terrady explained the fee can be avoided by having the city pay significant costs directly. He had an email exchange with Mr. Slight clarifying the intent, and Councilmember Barnett confirmed understanding of the language. - Not-to-exceed amount: Councilmember Chen requested a not-to-exceed amount before signing, stating he was uncomfortable with an open-ended commitment and would abstain if no cap was set. Terrady recommended leaving the language as-is, allowing the firm to present a budget after initial review, and noted the council can amend the contract later or terminate at any time. - Coordination with existing counsel: Councilmember Chen asked about coordination with another law firm (Lighthouse). Terrady said roles would be defined after the new firm gets up to speed to avoid duplication, and that he needed support to manage the city's other legal work. Key Outcomes - Motion carried 6-1-1: The motion to authorize the mayor to sign the personal services agreement with Ahlers Cressman & Sleight PLLC passed with six votes in favor, one vote opposed, and one abstention. Councilmember Chen stated his intention to abstain prior to the vote. The final tally as announced by the mayor was "six to one with one abstention." - Next steps: The firm will begin work on the dispute, with a future budget estimate to be provided to the council after initial review. The council retains the ability to terminate the agreement at any time.

The Edmonds City Council Finance Committee met on September 16, 2026, to review the July 2026 Monthly Financial Report. The committee discussed revenue and expenditure trends, fund balances, and operational challenges. Discussion Items - July 2026 Monthly Financial Report: Finance staff reported sales tax revenues up $538,000 (8% above budget, 7.7% year-over-year); other taxes (utility taxes) up $454,000 (6%); licenses and permits up 20% driven by construction permits ($84,000 above full-year budget); charges for goods and services (excluding interfund fees) at 92.5% of budget, primarily from building plan review and inspection revenues ($1.5 million YTD, 128% of budget, partly attributed to the Edmonds Green project). General fund fund balance improved from a negative $2 million start to a positive $503,000. The building maintenance fund had spent approximately $419,000 YTD. Expenditure analysis showed some departments (e.g., Mayor's office, Finance) exceeding budget due to corrective salary reallocations between departments. Staff noted 21.67 vacancies, mainly in wastewater treatment, streets/storm, engineering, and police. Discussion addressed negative cash balances in early 2026 (Q1) and the implications of interfund loans, with staff clarifying that the state auditor's guidance allows borrowing for up to 60 days, but the general fund (fund 001) was negative for 90 days, prompting a review of internal policy. Councilmembers requested clearer notes in future reports for budget reallocations and better forecasting for capital projects with uneven spending (e.g., building maintenance). Staff also discussed tracking future turnover costs (e.g., payout accruals) and noted a $250,000 non-departmental budget for such items. Key Outcomes - The committee received the July 2026 Monthly Financial Report as information; no formal vote was taken. Staff will continue providing notes explaining budget reallocations and improve forecasting granularity for departments with back-loaded expenditures. The meeting adjourned at approximately 1:51 PM local time.

The Edmonds City Council Public Safety, Planning, Human Services, and Personnel (PSPHSP) Committee met on September 15, 2026, at 4:30 PM. Councilmember [Name] chaired in place of Councilmember Nan, who was unwell. Also present were Councilmembers Vivian Olsen, Michelle Dotch, and Chris Eck. The committee addressed three items: a proposed interlocal agreement regarding a municipal court in the Lynnwood Neighborhood Center, a short plat vacation interim ordinance, and an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system update. Consent Calendar - Proposed Interlocal Agreement regarding Lynnwood Neighborhood Center: The committee discussed the first reading of this agreement, which allows Edmonds to hold court proceedings at the Lynnwood Neighborhood Center, outside city jurisdiction. The committee gestured toward moving it to the consent agenda after the city attorney confirmed no extra council action was needed; the only change would be allowing the judge to sign the agreement. Discussion Items - Short Plat Vacation Interim Ordinance: The committee reviewed the first reading of a one-year interim ordinance to establish a process for short plat vacations, which the city currently lacks. The planning director noted this was a simple two-lot process with no dedications required, and the ordinance would allow time to address state mandates, including code updates for unit lot subdivisions and lot splits due by June 2027. The committee agreed to move it to full council on October 13, 2026 for discussion and potential adoption. - ERP Update: The committee received the third quarter 2026 ERP implementation update. As of September 10, project tasks were about 42-43% complete, with roughly 40 days under budget overall (25 days under for finance, 15 days under for HR). About 55% of the 2026 budget was consumed ($130,000 to $133,000 of $238,000). Some components, such as centralized purchasing, were deferred due to IT staffing constraints. No action was requested. Key Outcomes - Interlocal Agreement: Expected to move to the consent agenda for final approval. - Short Plat Vacation Interim Ordinance: Approved by the committee to proceed to full council on October 13, 2026. - ERP Update: No formal action was requested or taken; the committee acknowledged the report and expressed appreciation for the IT team's work.

Only a single statement was recorded from an unidentified speaker: "I feel like we need to be complete and concise in what we're asking." No other agenda items, discussions, or decisions are available from the provided materials.