Public Meetings - Shoreline, Washington

The Shoreline City Council held a regular meeting on Monday, September 14, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. All council members (Mayor Robertson, Deputy Mayor Pobee, Councilmembers Snider, Mork, Scully, Ademasu, and Roberts) were present. The meeting opened with proclamations for Welcoming Week, Safe Shoreline Month, and Hispanic Heritage Month. The agenda included a public hearing on the 2027 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Human Services Funding Plan, a study item on a proposed 0.01% sales tax supporting children and families, and a preliminary view of the 2027-2028 Biennial Budget. Consent Calendar - The consent calendar was approved unanimously (7-0) on a motion by Deputy Mayor Pobee and Councilmember Ademasu. - Approved items included: Meeting minutes; expenses and payroll of $16,750,057.72; Resolution No. 569 authorizing a grant application for the expansion of Ronald Bog Park; and a $4,448,848 agreement with the U.S. EPA for a Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling Program grant. Public Comments & Testimony - Quang Vo, Shoreline: Criticized the Energize Shoreline heat pump program, asserting anticompetitive roster restrictions lead to inflated pricing and that subsidies are padding contractor margins rather than lowering consumer costs. - Amanda Lopez Castañon, Director of Food Programs, Hopelink: Expressed appreciation for the city's support, noting the Shoreline Market served 2,621 households (over 6,000 individuals monthly) in the third quarter of 2026. She requested continued and additional investment. - Emily Jones, Shoreline Senior Center: Thanked the Council for support, reporting 5,463 hot meals served and over 25,000 participation hours as of August 31, 2026. She stressed the need to prepare for the incoming wave of older adults. - Jonelle Kemmerling, Save Shoreline Trees: Requested single-point oversight for the city's tree canopy and asked if the proposed City Urban Forester position would encompass this role. - Norbert Steele, Shoreline: Expressed concerns about verifying ICE warrants, the city's budget projections, and reliance on regressive taxes amidst a potential recession. Public Hearing on CDBG and Human Services Funding Plan: No members of the public provided oral testimony; the hearing was closed by Mayor Robertson. Discussion Items - 2027 CDBG and 2027-2028 Human Services Funding Plan: Staff presented the CDBG ($320,000) and Human Services ($1,114,554) funding plans. Council discussed the non-renewal of the Community Support Specialist FTE, the end of the KCRHA interlocal agreement, and the high priority of establishing a robust severe weather response. Councilmember Ademasu highlighted potential unique needs related to El Niño conditions. The item will return for action on September 28. - Election of Temporary Presiding Officer: With the Mayor and Deputy Mayor absent for the September 21 meeting, Councilmember Roberts nominated Councilmember Snider, who was elected by a vote of 6 to preside. - Ordinance No. 1070 (0.01% Sales Tax for Children & Families): Staff proposed the tax to generate $130,000–$145,000 annually for youth mental health and rental assistance. Council debated the regressive nature of the tax versus the loss of local control if the county enacts it. Councilmember Ademasu expressed full support as a prevention program. Councilmember Roberts requested a contingent clause. The ordinance will return for potential adoption on September 28. - Preliminary View of 2027-2028 Biennial Budget and 2027-2032 CIP: Staff presented a strong fiscal position ($16.8M unassigned fund balance) alongside a long-term structural deficit ($14.7M projected over six years). No new ongoing general fund FTEs are proposed. City Manager Ellington confirmed that councilmembers wishing to revisit programs such as holiday baskets or grocery cards should submit formal amendment requests to him. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously (7-0). - Temporary Presiding Officer: Councilmember Valerie Snider elected to preside over the September 21, 2026 meeting. - Public Hearing Closed: CDBG and Human Services Funding Plans will return for formal action on September 28. - Tax Ordinance Direction: Staff directed to bring Ordinance 1070 back for adoption on September 28, with a potential contingency tied to King County action. - Budget Process Timeline: Formal budget transmittal is October 12, 2026, with department presentations through October 26, public hearings in November, and final adoption on November 16, 2026. - Council Amendments: Councilmembers were advised to submit budget amendment requests directly to the City Manager.

Vice Chair Christopher Mosier called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. at Shoreline City Hall. Commissioners Cabe, Lorah, Souza, and Povick were present. Chair Brinson and Commissioner Hadley were absent. The agenda covered approval of minutes, public comment, and study items on the Comprehensive Plan amendments and Light Rail Subarea Plans. Consent Calendar - The agenda and the draft minutes from the regular meeting of August 6, 2026, were approved as presented. Public Comments & Testimony - Kathleen Russell (Shoreline resident) questioned the appropriateness of the city's housing goal of 13,300 units by 2044. She stated that, based on Washington Office of Financial Management data and subarea plan exhibits, 4,125 units have been built since 2019, and the current projection requires 9,035 additional units over the next 18 years, which she rounded to 9,000 additional units. Discussion Items 6A: 2026 Comprehensive Plan Amendments (Neighborhood Greenways) Senior Planner Steve Szafran focused on citizen-initiated Amendment 6, which adds a Neighborhood Greenway Program. Staff supports the change, recommending revised policy language referencing the WSDOT Quick Build Guide rather than specific techniques, and prioritizing funding for connections to parks and transit. - Commissioner Lorah disclosed her affiliation with the applicant group Urbanist Shoreline (though not the applicant of record), voiced support for the revised language, but cautioned against it becoming merely a study exercise. - Vice Chair Mosier supported the specificity but asked about project selection. Staff noted the Transportation Department would attend the October 1 public hearing. 6B: Light Rail Subarea Plans Update Michelle Ellsworth (BERK Consulting) and Senior Planner Cate Lee presented updates to the Shoreline North and South Subarea Plans. Changes include extending the planning horizon to 2044, streamlining the documents (reducing length by roughly 30%), integrating environmental review and updated growth data, and refining policies. - Commissioner Souza flagged an inconsistency where a traffic calming and spillover parking monitoring policy was proposed for deletion in the North plan but retained in the South plan. Staff confirmed it was an oversight and will reconcile the language. - Commissioner Povick expressed strong concern over deleting parking and traffic monitoring near the 185th Street station, citing resident complaints about receiving parking tickets in front of their homes. She requested the monitoring remain a priority. - Vice Chair Mosier recommended staff provide an update on the citywide parking enforcement policy. Commissioner Povick concurred. - Vice Chair Mosier questioned the 10-acre threshold used as an example for defining "large prominent properties," suggesting it was too large to be a useful distinction. - Connectivity Implementation: Staff introduced a "buffer overlap method" and "suggested priority connections" to guide where connections are needed. - Commissioner Lorah emphasized prioritizing connections to key destinations and integrating park acquisition planning with connectivity planning. - Commissioner Povick requested mapping existing footpaths alongside the proposed priority connections. - Commissioner Souza and Commissioner Cabe supported a hybrid approach that identifies priority connections without mandating exact parcel locations. Director Bauer noted that the city has limited remaining development incentives (height, parking, FAR) and that a mandate may be necessary to achieve specific connections. - Commissioner Lorah asked how the priority connections would affect project feasibility and developer response. Key Outcomes - The Comp Plan amendments (including the Neighborhood Greenways policy) will go to a public hearing on October 1, 2026. - The Light Rail Subarea Plan update will return on September 17, 2026, with refined priority connection maps and reconciled policy language. - A public hearing on the Subarea Plans is set for October 1, 2026. - Staff will provide a future update on the citywide parking enforcement policy. - The meeting was adjourned at 8:08 p.m.

The Shoreline City Council held a regular meeting on Monday, August 17, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chamber at City Hall. The meeting was called to order by Councilmember Mork (Presiding Officer) due to the absence of Mayor Robertson and Deputy Mayor Povey for personal reasons. The agenda included approval of the consent calendar and action on Resolution No. 567 opposing two state ballot initiatives. Public comment focused on tree preservation in sidewalk projects and strong opposition to the anti-transgender initiatives. Consent Calendar - Adopted Ordinance No. 1064 authorizing eminent domain for the 175th Street Corridor Improvements Project Phase 1. - Adopted Resolution No. 563 approving the Public Benefit Rating System open space classification for the GROW Property at 16034 Greenwood Avenue N. - Adopted Resolution No. 566 approving the relocation plan and increasing purchasing authority for the 175th Street Corridor Phase 1 project. - Authorized the City Manager to obligate $733,888 in Transportation Alternatives Grant funding for the Off-Corridor Bike Network and $7,000,000 in additional Move Ahead Washington funds for the 148th Street Non-Motorized Bridge Project. - Authorized the City Manager to execute Amendment 1 to the Surface Water On-call Engineering contract with WSP USA, Inc. in the amount of $360,000. - Authorized the City Manager to enter into an agreement with DOWL for professional design engineering services ($265,727) for the Westminster Way N Sidewalk Project. - Authorized the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 9 to the Interlocal Cooperation Agreement with King County for purchase of open space through Conservation Futures Tax Levy Collections Grant Program. The consent calendar was approved unanimously (5-0). Public Comments & Testimony General Public Comment (prior to consent calendar) - Speakers Violet Kawaguchi, Ember, Bonnie Berry, Kathleen Russell, Janelle Kimmerling, Gwinevir Golstodter, A.J. Randall, Lake Buchanan, Lou, and others addressed the council. - Several speakers expressed strong support for the council's stance on trans rights and urged passage of Resolution 567. They highlighted dangers of anti-trans initiatives, personal experiences of fleeing hostile states, and concerns about safety for trans individuals in Shoreline. - Speakers from Save Shoreline Trees (Bonnie Berry, Kathleen Russell, Janelle Kimmerling) urged the council to consider preserving mature trees in the Westminster Way N Sidewalk Project. They requested tree appraisals before 30% design, use of pervious pavement to protect roots, and noted potential cost savings from avoiding stormwater infrastructure. They referenced past council member statements supporting tree preservation. - A.J. Randall and Lake Buchanan (trans residents) called for more than just a resolution, requesting tangible support for trans refugees including housing, medical care, and food assistance. Lake Buchanan also described anti-trans violence nationally and referenced the UN genocide definition. Public Comment on Resolution No. 567 (after staff presentation) - Norbert Steele (Shoreline resident) called the resolution a "layup" but urged the council to go further in addressing discrimination and ICE activity in the area. - Scott Menzies (Fortify Washington) thanked Councilmembers Roberts and Mork for proposing the resolution, expressed solidarity with trans siblings, and called the initiatives the "thin edge of the wedge." He presented additional petition signatures. - Lake Buchanan again spoke, thanking Councilmember Roberts for the amendments and urging the council to keep pushing for more. - Jamie Lee Blake (Edmonds resident, trans woman, mother of three) read from the initiative text, noting that under IL26-638 all girls playing sports would need a healthcare provider’s statement verifying sex, including genital inspections. She pointed out the policy has worked since 2007 and that the burden would fall hardest on marginalized girls, not just trans youth. - Oliver Wolfe (North Seattle) challenged the myth that trans women have same physical performance as cis men, noting testosterone blockers lower levels significantly. - Violet Kawaguchi (Shoreline resident, trans woman of color) criticized the initiative's pseudoscience, noted it would disproportionately affect athletes of color, and shared personal experiences of harassment in Shoreline. Discussion Items - Resolution No. 567 - Opposing Washington State Ballot Initiatives IL26-638 and IL26-001 - Staff (Jim Hammond) presented the resolution and the two initiatives. IL26-638 would prohibit "biologically male" students from female sports and require medical verification; IL26-001 would roll back amendments to parental rights law, potentially exposing confidential student records. - Councilmember Roberts, co-sponsor, moved adoption of the resolution with his proposed amendments (which shortened and clarified language). The motion was seconded. - Councilmember Roberts spoke passionately about the need to protect trans youth and all students, noting that the initiatives would harm not just trans students but also girls and women of color who are questioned about their bodies. He emphasized that schools must remain safe spaces. - Councilmember Mork, co-sponsor, echoed support. - Councilmember Scully shared personal experiences with trans friends and his own daughter's gender questioning, noting the importance of safe spaces for all children. He called the sports initiative "1800s thinking." - Councilmember Adamasu expressed full support, opposing both initiatives as victimizing trans youth and endangering students who are not safe at home. - Councilmember Snyder highlighted the invasive nature of requiring medical evaluations, comparing it to the Larry Nassar abuse scandal, and stressed that parental rights initiatives undermine youth privacy. - All council members thanked the public for their testimony and expressed strong support for the resolution. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously (5-0). - Resolution No. 567: Adopted unanimously (5-0) with Councilmember Roberts' amendments, placing the Shoreline City Council in opposition to Washington State Ballot Initiative IL26-638 (athletics participation) and IL26-001 (parental rights). The resolution will be publicized on the city website and newsletter. - The meeting adjourned after the vote.

On Monday, August 10, 2026, the Shoreline City Council convened at 7:00 PM in Council Chamber at City Hall. Deputy Mayor Eben Pobee presided. The meeting included proclamations celebrating Shoreline Week and the Chamber of Commerce's 50th anniversary, a city manager's report, council reports, one public comment, approval of the consent calendar, election of a temporary presiding officer, and a study item on eminent domain for the 175th Street Corridor Project. The meeting adjourned at 7:37 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved the regular meeting minutes of July 27, 2026. - Approved expenses and payroll as of July 24, 2026, in the amount of $5,642,893.97. - Authorized the City Manager to execute Amendment 11 to Contract 9263 with KPFF Consulting Engineers for $151,986.02 for the 148th Street Non-Motorized Bridge Project. - Vote: 6-0 (Councilmember Scully excused). Public Comments & Testimony - Norbert Steele, a Shoreline resident, expressed concern that the King County Sheriff's Department controls the police services contract rather than acting as a contractor. He cited a nearby ICE incident where police did not respond despite calls and urged the Council to treat the department as a service provider. He also advocated for raising council salaries to a living wage. Discussion Items - Ordinance No. 1064 – Eminent Domain for 175th Street Corridor Improvement Project Phase 1: Robert Victor, Engineer II, presented the ordinance authorizing condemnation for property needed for Phase 1, which reconstructs the intersection of 175th and Meridian near Ronald Bog. The project leverages a $10.2 million FEMA BRIC grant for seismic mitigation. Twelve properties are affected, with minor right-of-way and easement needs; no full acquisitions or displacements. The tree removal count increased from 30–35 (at 60% design) to 47 (at 90% design) due to project limit changes, integration of sewer work, Seattle City Light undergrounding, and arborist report inconsistencies. Councilmember Snider questioned the tree count; staff explained the reasons. Councilmember Ademasu raised multimodal safety concerns about e-bikes and Lime scooters mixing with pedestrians; staff noted that Phase 1 uses joint-use paths as adopted at 60% design, and a WSDOT value engineering study may allow cross-section changes in future phases. Tricia Juhnke, Public Works Director, said a broader Lime scooter discussion is planned before year-end. Councilmember Mork asked about the western extent of utility work (several hundred feet west of the intersection) and suggested a 1:1 street tree replacement ratio; staff said they would consider it. Key Outcomes - The Consent Calendar was approved unanimously (6-0). - Councilmember Laura Mork was elected Temporary Presiding Officer for the August 17, 2026, regular meeting by a vote of 5 (one absent). - The council discussed Ordinance No. 1064; final action is scheduled for August 17, 2026, on the Consent Calendar unless otherwise directed.

The Shoreline Planning Commission met on Thursday, August 6, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. in Council Chambers at City Hall. The meeting included public comments, a study item on Light Rail Subarea Plan connectivity updates, and discussion of the 2026 Comprehensive Plan Amendments docket. The Commission deliberated on six proposed amendments, including a citizen-initiated Neighborhood Greenways program and a privately-initiated rezoning on 11th Avenue NW. The meeting adjourned at 8:48 p.m. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda as presented. - Approved the minutes of July 16, 2026 as amended (corrected a pronoun reference to Vice Chair Mosier). Public Comments & Testimony - Oliver J. Moffat, North City resident, spoke in support of the Neighborhood Greenways amendment. He highlighted the original proposed wording as outcome-oriented and emphasized quick-build techniques (e.g., paint, signage, temporary bollards) that are iterative and reversible. He acknowledged the city lacks current staffing and funding but called the amendment a first step. - Kevin Atkinson, North City resident, expressed strong support for Neighborhood Greenways, citing the state's Shared Streets law (SB 5595) as a ready framework. He noted Seattle's alignment with the state law and emphasized cost-effectiveness compared to major capital projects. - Boni Biery spoke in support of both the Greenways program and Firlands Way as a potential model greenway. She provided local history: Firlands Way was the first paved street in Shoreline (1914, red brick), originally part of North Trunk Road, and has a 90-foot right-of-way owned by the city, making it ideal for connections to transit and placemaking. - Nancy Parring, North City resident, spoke as a resident and parent, supporting the Greenways as a low-cost, low-tech, adaptable approach that can have significant community impact with limited resources. - The Commission also received 45 written public comments on the Comprehensive Plan Amendments (listed on the agenda). Discussion Items A. Light Rail Subarea Plans Updates Michelle Ellsworth (BERK Consulting) and John Larson-Friend (Ardurra) presented connectivity implementation for the 148th and 185th station areas. They reviewed a connectivity study focused on breaking up long blocks via developer-led connections (mid-block paths, alleys, community courtyards, pedestrian plazas) as redevelopment occurs. Hypothetical scenarios illustrated how connections would be triggered based on block length (300 feet) and project size. Commissioners discussed: - Size and design of community courtyards versus pedestrian plazas; tree retention and open space requirements. - Complexity of requiring connections in both directions, especially on irregular blocks with flag lots and private roads. - The need for design criteria to ensure publicly accessible spaces are welcoming. - Staff noted that the 300-foot block length target (based on walkability research) was supported by most commissioners; some preferred focusing on connectivity over exact length. - Commission expressed support for a requirement that paths terminating at property lines be extended as adjacent parcels redevelop. B. 2026 Comprehensive Plan Amendments Senior Planner Steve Szafran reviewed the six amendments on the docket: 1. Adopt Surface Water Master Plan (text edits). 2. Update Town Center Plan (staff will recommend carrying forward to 2027 docket due to ongoing work). 3. & 4. Update 145th and 185th Station Subarea Plans (connectivity analysis). 5. Change land use designation on 11th Avenue NW from NR2 to NR3 (privately-initiated). 6. Add Neighborhood Greenways Program to Transportation Element (citizen-initiated). Key discussion points: - Amendment 5: Chair Brinson expressed concern about setting a precedent for rezoning block by block when criteria were just applied citywide. Commissioner Povick suggested using data to identify other similar streets rather than treating this as unique. Vice Chair Mosier argued the street is not different from others. Director Bauer explained the property is at the edge of the zoning designation, and staff only recommended further consideration because it is not surrounded by NR2. Commissioner Lorah concurred with applying criteria objectively to ensure equity. - Amendment 6: Commissioner Lorah (disclosing her role as founder/lead organizer of Urbanist Shoreline, not the applicant) emphasized that low-cost quick-build is the heart of the policy, reversible, and fulfills open space and connection needs. Commissioner Cabe worried that overly prescriptive language could limit flexibility. Staff (Alan Budde, Senior Transportation Planner) supported the intent but suggested more general policy language, noting that “low cost” and “quick build” are undefined and that demonstration projects are just a phase. Commissioner Lorah encouraged use of existing WSDOT definitions. Commissioner Souza supported the program and quick-build aspect. Chair Brinson noted Seattle’s Play Streets program as a community-building model. Staff agreed to bring revised language for this amendment at the next meeting (September 3). Key Outcomes - Light Rail Connectivity: Commission supported the proposed connectivity framework and the requirement for paths to continue through redeveloping parcels. The 300-foot block length target was deemed appropriate. Staff will refine code language based on feedback and return with draft subarea plan amendments in September. - Comp Plan Amendments: Staff will bring revised policy language for the Neighborhood Greenways amendment (Amendment 6) at the September 3, 2026 meeting. Amendment 2 (Town Center Plan) will be recommended for carryover to the 2027 docket. No vote was taken on the other amendments; public hearing is scheduled for October 1, 2026. - Cancellation: The August 20, 2026 meeting was canceled by consensus; the next meeting will be September 3, 2026.

The Shoreline City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, July 27, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber at Shoreline City Hall, 17500 Midvale Avenue N, Shoreline, WA. The meeting included a National Night Out proclamation, one public comment, the City Manager's report, council reports, appointment of two youth members to the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services (PRCS)/Tree Board, and unanimous approval of the consent calendar. Proclamation: National Night Out for Community - Mayor Robertson proclaimed Tuesday, August 4, 2026, as National Night Out for Community in the City of Shoreline and encouraged residents to join their neighbors for an evening of food, fun, and connection at one of the neighborhood block parties being held. Public Comments & Testimony - Norbert Steele of Shoreline expressed concern that the City appears to have limited control over the King County Sheriff's Office. He referenced a prior meeting in which a representative of the Sheriff's Office ("Patty") reportedly called it "extreme" to ask deputies to monitor ICE staging areas, and argued officers could follow ICE vehicles without interfering. Steele stated the City is giving the Sheriff's Office a $9 million raise over two years while receiving less staffing, and questioned the effectiveness of recruiting out-of-state officers whose values may not align with Shoreline. He asked at what point the City will push back on declining service levels despite paying more. Report of the City Manager - City Manager Bristol Ellington announced upcoming events: a noon performance by the Contagious Performing Company at Spartan Recreation Center Field; the wrapping up of the karaoke in the park series; guided neighborhood walks with the full schedule at shorelinewa.gov/shorelinewalks; an Energize Shoreline workshop on Thursday, July 30 at City Hall; and National Night Out on Tuesday, August 4. Ellington also recognized the Community Champion and Award nominees, noted the next City Council meeting on Monday, August 10 at 7 p.m., and the PRCS/Tree Board meeting on Thursday, September 24 at 7 p.m. in Conference Room 303 at City Hall. Council Reports - A councilmember attended the Shoreline Health and Rehab flag ceremony recognizing the facility for the second consecutive year as one of the top care facilities nationwide. - A councilmember attended, with Councilmember Roberts, the "pig feast" documentary screening and panel discussion regarding the situation in West Papua, including the destruction of land and internal displacement of 122,000 Native peoples. - A councilmember noted federal actions announced in June that will affect every city and utility in the nation. Discussion Items — Appointment of Youth Members to PRCS/Tree Board - PRCS Director Mary Reidy presented the staff report, outlining two open youth positions for the term September 2026 through June 30, 2027. The City conducted robust recruitment through the YOLO youth and teen development program staff, received four applicants, and interviewed all four. Council waived rule 2.4 A through E to allow the department director and department administrator to conduct the interviews instead of Council. - Mayor noted each youth board member will receive a $50 stipend per meeting, with funding secured in the current biennium budget and proposed for the next budget cycle. - Councilmember Annette Ademasu moved to appoint Iris Peters and Max Shima to the PRCS/Tree Board for the term September 2026 through June 30, 2027. - Councilmembers expressed full support for the motion. Councilmember Ademasu noted the youth are non-voting members but contribute to a quorum, and are welcome to join subcommittees in addition to attending regular meetings. - One councilmember noted the stipend for board and commission members has not been changed in several years and encouraged Council to consider raising stipends to meet inflation during the budget process, just as is done for city employees. - A councilmember welcomed the appointees, noting at least one former school board director recommended one of the youth applicants highly. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved by unanimous consent at the start of the meeting. - Deputy Mayor Eben Pobee moved to approve the Consent Calendar; the motion passed unanimously (vote was called and the consent calendar passed). The Consent Calendar included: - Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes of June 22, 2026 - Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes of July 13, 2026 - Approval of Expenses and Payroll as of July 10, 2026, in the amount of $2,504,806.90 - Ordinance No. 1063 — Amending the 2025-2026 Final Biennial Budget to Support Fleet Replacements - Authorization for the City Manager to Purchase an Isuzu Electric Truck approved in the 2025-2026 Biennial Budget in the amount of $126,150 - Authorization for the City Manager to Execute a Janitorial Services Contract with SMS Cleaning Inc. - Authorization for the City Manager to Approve Additional Change Order Authority for the contract with Interwest Construction, Inc. in the amount of $210,111.07 to support Seattle Public Utilities in relocating utilities on the 8th Avenue NW Sidewalk Project - Authorization for the City Manager to Execute Contract 1368884 with Parametrix Consulting in the amount of $325,000 for Surface Water Utility Professional Services - Authorization for the City Manager to Execute an Agreement for Services with GFT Infrastructure LLC for a not-to-exceed amount of $257,588 for the Design of Security and Technology Enhancements at City Facilities - Authorization for the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Real Property Asset Management and Consulting Services in the amount of $140,190 Key Outcomes - Appointed Iris Peters and Max Shima to the Shoreline Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services/Tree Board for the term September 2026 through June 30, 2027. - Approved the agenda and the Consent Calendar by unanimous consent. - Council members expressed an intent to consider inflation-based increases to board and commission stipends during the upcoming budget process.

The Shoreline Planning Commission met on Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:13 p.m. in the Council Chamber at Shoreline City Hall. The meeting included a public hearing on the 2026 Development Code Amendments, a study session on the Tree Code Update (Discussion 1), and extensive public comment. The Commission unanimously recommended approval of the Development Code Amendments and discussed key policy questions for the tree code, but took no votes on the tree code update. Consent Calendar - The agenda was accepted as presented. - The draft minutes of July 2, 2026, were approved as presented. Public Comments & Testimony General Public Comment (Tree Code Update): Seventeen people spoke in person; 40 written comments were submitted. Key speakers and positions: - Gary Halpern (Shoreline resident): Expressed concern about the high cost of permits to remove a tree damaging his property and the requirement to plant three replacement trees when his property already has many trees. - Jack Malek (Shoreline resident, realtor, former Planning Commissioner): Encouraged a balanced, scientifically supported tree-canopy policy that recognizes differences in neighborhood geography and land use. He asked the City to independently verify Innis Arden’s 45% canopy and 50+ acres of forest reserves, establish canopy objectives by neighborhood, and develop a view-sensitive vegetation management system. - Gerry Millar (Innis Arden resident): Concerned that tree-planting requirements could harm established neighborhood views. - Cynthia Esselman (Innis Arden resident, former Planning Commissioner): Stated that single-family homeowners should not be required to offset canopy loss from higher-density development. She noted that Innis Arden already exceeds the City’s 40% canopy goal with a 45% canopy and over 50 acres of collectively owned forest reserves. - Peter Esselman (Innis Arden resident): Supported a healthy tree canopy but questioned placing the burden of compensating for light-rail and high-density development tree loss on residential homeowners. He noted that despite the removal of approximately 1,400 trees for light-rail construction, the City reported an overall increase in canopy elsewhere. - Claire Turner (Richmond Highlands resident): Requested additional protection for exceptionally large trees (60 inches DBH or more) in all zones, not just temporary protection in town centers. - Brian Branagan (Innis Arden resident): Supported tree canopy goals and suggested allowing tree credits to be transferred or shared within a neighborhood or community. - Curtis Schmautz (Shoreline/Innis Arden resident): Asked the City to develop a comprehensive plan to reach the 40% canopy goal rather than placing primary responsibility on residential neighborhoods. - Sarah Kennedy (speaking for Innis Arden Club HOA): Supported the City’s canopy goal but asked for recognition of Innis Arden’s 45% canopy and 50+ acres of forest reserves, greater flexibility for communities with established vegetation management, and clarification on credits for properties with critical areas. - Suzanne Tsoming (Save Shoreline Trees co-chair): Expressed concern that the proposed tree-density credit method could allow property owners to retain fewer trees once minimum credits are met. - Boni Bieri (Shoreline resident): Presented a chart comparing tree retention under current and proposed codes for six completed projects, arguing that the proposed formula allows too many trees to be removed. - Lance Young (Westminster neighborhood resident): Expressed concern that the proposed tree code is too lenient on developers, especially in higher-density zones where tree retention may not be required. - Jonelle Kemmerling (Shoreline resident): Urged balancing housing goals with tree canopy goals, noting that exempting higher-density zones from retention would increase inequity and shift burden to homeowners. She cited the Urban Tree Canopy Assessment showing over $3 million in annual infrastructure savings from the urban forest. - Carla Carroll (Shoreline resident, member of tree-code Citizen Advisory Group): Expressed doubt that the proposed code would balance housing and canopy goals. She opposed exceptions to the tree-credit system for higher-density zones and additional flexibility. - Kathleen Russell (Save Shoreline Trees): Stated that Shoreline is on track for housing production under the Growth Management Act and that financing, not tree regulations, is the primary cause of any slowdown. She opposed zone multipliers that would retain too few trees. - Larry Moore (Richmond Beach resident): Expressed concern about fairness and cost of tree-removal permits, describing a $5,000 cost to remove a tree 3 feet from a foundation as unreasonable. - Richard Gould (Innis Arden resident): Supported tree preservation goals but asked for clarification on how critical areas interact with tree credits. He requested that trees in critical areas count toward credits, and that the City recognize Innis Arden’s existing canopy and cooperative management. Public Hearing – Development Code Amendments: Two oral testimonies were given: - Jack Malek (Shoreline resident, former Planning Commissioner): Supported reducing the street-facing wall requirement from 40% to 20% in SMC 20.50.160.C, arguing the 40% threshold makes smaller middle-housing projects difficult to design without sacrificing parking and open space. - Jerry Millar (Innis Arden resident): Emphasized that neighborhoods like Innis Arden already have high canopy and that the City should not penalize lots with fewer trees if the overall neighborhood canopy is sufficient. Written testimony was received from MBAKS and several individuals. Public Hearing: 2026 Development Code Amendments Senior Planner Steve Szafran presented the amendments, which fell into five categories: Daycares, Uses and Use Tables, Subdivisions, Traffic Impacts, and Building Design. The amendments were largely as discussed on June 6, 2026. Commissioners asked clarifying questions, and a discussion about the 40% vs. 20% street-facing wall requirement arose. Chair Brinson and Commissioners Lorah and Hadley expressed interest in revisiting that topic for the next round of amendments. Motion: Commissioner Lorah moved, seconded by Vice Chair Mosier, to recommend approval of the 2026 Development Code Updates as shown in Attachment A of the staff report. Vote: Unanimously passed (7-0). The public hearing was closed. Discussion Items: Tree Code Update Discussion 1 Senior Planner Sierra Carson and consultant Kim Frappier (Facet NW) presented the draft tree code update. Key elements: - The draft code emphasizes retaining mature, exceptional trees (≥24 inches DBH or qualifying groves of three or more trees with combined diameter ≥12 inches). Certain species (alder, cottonwood) and damaged/topped trees are not considered exceptional. - Exceptional trees would generally be required to remain in all zones, with removal allowed only for hazard/nuisance, non-viability, or to allow a minimum buildable area based on hardscape allowances per zone. - Minimum tree credits would be required on all lots based on lot size and a zoning multiplier. Credits can be met through retained or planted trees, with larger existing trees earning more credit. - The draft code applies tree regulations citywide, including zones currently exempt. - Staff is not recommending continuing the current permit fee for large tree removal. Commissioner discussion focused on: - The need for concrete examples, side-by-side comparisons, and cost implications for housing feasibility (especially middle housing). - Whether exceptional tree requirements should apply citywide or have exemptions for certain project types or zones. - The trade-off between retention-first vs. flexible approach for minimum tree credits. Commissioners appeared to favor flexibility, given that exceptional trees are already protected. - Concerns about intentional damage to trees to avoid protections, and about interactions with critical areas and view covenants. - The relationship between the tree code and the City’s 40% canopy goal and housing targets. Commissioners requested additional data, visual examples, analysis of the code’s impact on housing production and canopy goals, and discussion on mitigation options for trees removed beyond minimum credits. They also asked for clarification on when tree code requirements are triggered (e.g., for sheds, ADUs). Staff will return with more information at upcoming meetings. Key Outcomes - Development Code Amendments: Unanimously recommended for approval to City Council (7-0). The Commission expressed interest in revisiting the 40% vs. 20% street-facing wall requirement for a future amendment cycle. - Tree Code Update: No votes were taken. The Commission provided guidance to staff on several points: 1. Support for a flexible approach to meeting minimum tree credits (rather than retention-first), subject to further analysis. 2. Request for side-by-side comparisons of current vs. proposed code on completed development projects, including impacts on design, cost, and housing production. 3. Request for analysis of how the draft code contributes to the 40% canopy goal and housing targets. 4. Interest in possible mitigation options for tree removal beyond minimum credits in higher-density zones. 5. Clarify interaction between tree code and critical areas, view covenants, and topped trees. 6. Staff to continue public and developer engagement and return in September for further discussion. - Next Meeting: August 6, 2026, will cover 2026 Comprehensive Plan amendments and follow-up on two light rail subarea plan updates.

The Shoreline City Council met on July 13, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber. The meeting included approval of the consent calendar, appointment of pro and con committees for a ballot measure to create a metropolitan park district, authorization to purchase a property adjacent to Twin Ponds Park, and discussion of a budget amendment for fleet replacements. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (7-0): Regular meeting minutes of June 1, 2026; workshop dinner meeting minutes of June 8, 2026; regular meeting minutes of June 8, 2026; expenses and payroll as of June 26, 2026 in the amount of $8,534,155.44; adoption of Ordinance No. 1062 extending interim regulations prohibiting removal of trees 60 inches diameter at breast height or greater within Town Center 3 and Town Center 4 zoning districts; authorization to amend contract with Krazan & Associates, Inc. for $36,757.43 for parks bond project testing and inspection services; authorization to execute Amendment No. 2 with PH Consulting for $200,000 for on-call development review services. Public Comments & Testimony - John Hushigen, Shoreline arborist, requested the Council direct staff to water 15 elm trees planted in 2024 at the corner of 185th and 5th Avenue NE, which appear to be dying from drought; he attributed the lack of irrigation to a dispute between the City and Sound Transit. - Buddy Smith, Shoreline resident and writing tutor, discussed his application for the Pro Committee for Proposition 1, emphasizing his experience with concise writing under word limits. - Larry Moore, Shoreline resident, expressed disappointment with the City’s tree regulations, citing an example of a tree threatening a foundation where removal would require $5,000 in permit fees; he called the policy “confiscatory” and “inexcusable.” - Additional public comment on action item 8B: Larry Moore asked for clarification of the property location (southwest vs. southeast corner of Twin Ponds Park). Discussion Items - Appointment of Pro and Con Committees for Proposition 1 (Metropolitan Park District): The Council received applications for committees to write statements for the November 3, 2026 ballot measure creating a metropolitan park district for a pool and future recreation facilities. After debate, the Council amended the initial pro committee motion (4-3) by replacing Amber Clark with Buddy Smith, then unanimously (7-0) appointed Buddy Smith, Krishnakant Nammi, and Susie McDowell to the Pro Committee. The Con Committee members Sandra Cribbs, Jeff Hays, and Joseph Smith were appointed unanimously (7-0). - Purchase of Real Property at 15000 Meridian Avenue N: Staff presented a proposal to acquire a 7,500-square-foot parcel adjacent to Twin Ponds Park for $850,000 (appraised value), plus tenant relocation, appraisal, and closing costs. The acquisition would be funded 75% by a King County Conservation Futures grant and 25% by park impact fees. Councilmembers expressed support for preserving open space and wildlife habitat; staff noted the property is tenant-occupied through April and that demolition funding is available but future development funding is not yet identified. The motion to authorize the City Manager to complete the purchase passed 7-0. - Ordinance No. 1063 – Fleet Replacement Budget Amendment: Staff presented a proposed amendment to the 2025-2026 biennial budget to cover the unanticipated replacement of a stolen Vermeer chipper (funded by insurance and reserves), a funding shortfall for a new shared-use dump truck, and the purchase of an electric truck (taking advantage of a $90,000 WAZIP rebate). Councilmembers asked about replacement costs, maintenance, electric vehicle lifespan based on battery warranty, and security measures to prevent future theft. The Council agreed the ordinance would return on the July 27 consent calendar. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approved 7-0. - Pro Committee for Proposition 1: Appointed Buddy Smith, Krishnakant Nammi, and Susie McDowell (motion to replace Amber Clark with Buddy Smith passed 4-3; main motion passed 7-0). - Con Committee for Proposition 1: Appointed Sandra Cribbs, Jeff Hays, and Joseph Smith (passed 7-0). - Property Purchase at 15000 Meridian Ave N: Authorized City Manager to complete the acquisition (passed 7-0). - Ordinance No. 1063: Scheduled to return on the July 27, 2026 consent calendar for adoption.

The Shoreline Planning Commission met on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber at City Hall. The meeting focused on updates to the Light Rail Subarea Plans, including public engagement results, the Connectivity Study, and a proposed 185th Street Sports, Recreation, and Entertainment Zoning Overlay. No public comment was received. The meeting adjourned at 8:18 p.m. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved as presented. - The draft minutes of the June 18, 2026 regular meeting were approved as presented. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak. Discussion Items - Light Rail Subarea Plans Update – BERK Consultants Michelle Ellsworth and Lisa Grueter presented. The update covered: - Public Engagement Summary: Community workshops in February had more than 20 signed-in participants each; online surveys received 120–150 responses per station area. Key themes included a need for east‑west connections, strong support for community courtyards and pedestrian plazas near stations, and concerns about sidewalk gaps and safety. A meeting with the Shoreline School District on April 7 revealed the district’s desire to keep the stadium, track, and ballfields at the Shoreline Center and the importance of continued communication. The district will begin its long‑range capital facilities planning this year. - Connectivity Study: A flowchart was presented indicating that a new publicly accessible pedestrian route is required when a development is more than 300 feet from an existing pedestrian route. The scale of the connection would be proportional to project size, with thresholds based on unit counts (≤9, 10–19, 20+). Implementation framework details are still being developed, with internal coordination (fire, Recology, etc.) planned. Commissioners raised questions about the 300‑foot definition, the appropriateness of thresholds, developer incentives to choose preferred typologies (courtyards, plazas), and maintenance/access via easements versus dedication. Vice Chair Mosier requested a map‑based example for the next meeting to visualize implementation. - 185th Street Sports, Recreation, and Entertainment Zoning Overlay: The overlay was added to the docket by Council in response to high‑level interest from a major league pitcher, sports leagues, and the school district. Staff proposed a refined boundary focused on MUR‑70 zoned properties (excluding areas north that are currently MUR‑35). The overlay would tailor land uses (e.g., allowing large indoor/outdoor event spaces), development standards, noise, lighting, and parking. Staff recommended a transportation management plan rather than parking minimums to avoid large surface lots. Commissioners discussed the boundary size, food truck regulations, and whether the overlay should be expanded to include northern parcels. Vice Chair Mosier cautioned against shrinking the boundary before the school district’s plans are known. Chair Brinson expressed concern about losing opportunities by reducing the footprint. Commissioner Lorah asked about the potential for accessory uses on the smaller footprint. Staff agreed to present pros and cons of both boundaries in the EIS. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; the item was a study session. - Next steps include issuing the draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) for both station areas in July 2026, with a 30‑day comment period. - The Commission will receive refined subarea plans and development code amendments in September 2026. - A public hearing and Commission recommendation are anticipated in October 2026. - Final SEIS is expected by November 2026, followed by City Council action. - Staff committed to providing demographic data on workshop participants, clarifying the definition of “pedestrian route,” and bringing back map‑based examples of the connectivity framework.