Like many who have written in support, I am thrilled to think that there may be a way to bring the Sonics – we do have the right to that name – back to Seattle.

However, I also understand those of you who are asking tough questions.  As a Councilmember, I have a responsibility to make sure any deal the city enters into must be the best one for Seattle taxpayers. It’s important that your elected representatives check into the details, assess the alternatives and ensure that city resources are properly protected.

In the past, Seattle has had some ups and downs with sports enterprises. We have lost teams, venues and even money. To repeat mistakes, especially in light of lessons learned, would be irresponsible.

Many of the proposed arena details have yet to be released.  I do know that Seattle native Chris Hansen is asking the City and County to issue approximately $200 million in bonds to purchase land in SODO and build the arena. In two weeks, the Mayor will transmit a memorandum of understanding that delineates obligations of each party (the city, county and Mr. Hansen) in this enterprise. Mr. Hansen has asked for a binding agreement – a contract – in order to assure the NBA that he has the full commitment of the city.

It is a very serious matter to invest over 200 million dollars of taxpayer money. As such, I have many questions about the proposed agreement and potential bond issuance: Is there a business plan? A pro forma, discussing the chances of the enterprise succeeding? Have we vetted the finances of Mr. Hansen’s fellow prospective owners? What about the ability of a city of this size to support seven big ticket sports?

There does seem to be expectation that there will be a transportation study – a look at possible traffic problems associated with the proposed arena. I appreciate that Mr. Hansen has hired a transportation consultant and will make the results available to us. But it likely will be limited in scope. And, given the concerns of the Port of Seattle and Burlington Northern about freight mobility, a study that is not comprehensive may understate a new arena’s effect on congestion.

As you can see, there are pressing questions that must be answered before Councilmembers will be able to take an informed vote. Here are just a few of my most critical concerns:

• Will additional taxes that the arena will generate cover outlays?
• What additional city services will the arena require? And where will this funding come from?
• What added traffic and/or transportation infrastructure will the city need to provide?
• What about King County? What proportion of the outlay will the county assume? Is it a 50-50 deal? 60-40?
• Are there alternate sites where an arena might be built?
• What arrangements will be made for operating Key Arena in light of competition with a new arena?
• If the city borrows $200 million on this project – apparently a burden that the city could conceivably absorb, although it would almost maximize bonded indebtedness  – what future  projects would the city then be forced to forego?

We have complex and rich history of professional sports teams in Seattle: from the Seattle Pilots and the 1917 Stanley Cup winning Seattle Metropolitans, to our recent additions, the Seattle Storm and Sounders FC. I would like to see this legacy continue for future generations and believe it is possible. However, we must not unnecessarily burden our children and grandchildren if we do not have the best deal possible in front of us.

Going forward, my pledge to you is to be a careful steward of taxpayer’s money. I will work diligently to ensure any deal makes sense for all of Seattle and that we know the full cost and impact to city residents.

Seattle City Councilmember Jean Godden
takes up Utility Discount Program for low income and elderly
More change is needed to ensure access

Seattle – At the urging of Councilmember Jean Godden, the Libraries, Utilities and Center Committee today sent a letter calling for two changes to the Utility Discount Program (UDP).  These changes would immediately benefit low-income families and seniors who need assistance.

The letter, addressed to Ray Hoffman, Director of Seattle Public Utilities, and Dannette Smith, Director of the Human Services Department, calls for:

1. Changing the re-enrollment schedule for low-income seniors from once every 18 months to once every 3 years; and,
2. Making low-income discount rates retroactive to the date a certified application is received

"People who are fully qualified shouldn’t have to wait months for assistance," stated Godden. "Discounts should be retroactive to the date when a qualified customer submits the complete UDP application.

"Unnecessary red tape and bureaucratic delay seems like a high price for those in need to have to bear. Seattle can do better and should."

For more information please visit Councilmember Godden’s review of the program here. You can also visit the Utility Discount Program site.

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council's website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.

Special Committee to discuss Seawall

SEATTLE – The Seattle City Council’s Special Committee on the Central Waterfront, Seawall and Alaskan Way Viaduct Replacement Program will meet after Full Council on Monday, April 23. 

The Committee will discuss public safety and protection of the Central Waterfront, the downtown business district, transportation and public infrastructure, a possible bond measure to replace the Elliot Bay Seawall and the Seawall design, schedule, cost estimates and next steps.

WHEN:
Monday, April 23, 2012, following Full Council
(approximately 2:30 p.m.)

WHERE:
Council Chambers, Seattle City Hall
600 Fourth Ave, Second floor, Seattle 98104

View the committee agenda here.

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council's website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.

Councilmember Godden’s personal historical perspective:

The primary architect for the fair was Seattle’s own Paul Thiry, who personally designed the Washington State Coliseum to house the state’s “World of Tomorrow” exhibit. The famed feature of the Coliseum was the 150-passenger Bubbleator. The giant plastic bubble floated through exhibit of the imagined future, piloted by glamorous long-legged models who instructed fair-goers to “step to the rear of the sphere.”

I, alas, was not able to apply for a job piloting the Bubbleator nor for the job of taking passengers via elevator to the Space Needle’s observation deck. Operators needed to be 5 foot 6 and gorgeous. But I did get to leave a small mark on the World’s Fair. The fair designated two official coloring books and my late husband Robert (Bob) Godden, along with his ad-agency partner Ross Swift, was hired by Hayes Distributing Inc. to produce the books. As commercial artists often did, they drew from life and, as fate would have it, almost all adult women in both books could have been my twin sisters.

Aside from coloring books, Godden and Swift did scores of drawings for the fair. They designed a Paul Bunyan Cake, a giant pastry that was the centerpiece for one of the fair’s concluding events. They turned out dozens of ads that appeared in “The Official Guide Book.” They designed punch-out headgear for the Alaska exhibit and shamelessly produced flamboyant “Girls Girls Girls Girls” ads for the scandalous (for the times) adults-only show street extravaganza. Imagine topless beauties (“heavenly bodies”) on display at the “naughty but nice” presentation. It was a reversal for the Seattle City Council, which several years before had deliberated only 24 hours before banning all topless displays.

For more information on this weekend’s Next 50 opening celebration at the Seattle Center, visit http://www.thenextfifty.org/.

Seattle Municipal Archives has some excellent resources on the 1962 World’s Fair.  Click to view digital files, text files.  Image files can be viewed here and here.

Official Century 21 Coloring Book, featuring Councilmember Godden

Watch Seattle City Councilmembers share their
favorite Seattle Center memories

SEATTLE - In anticipation of the Seattle Center's Next Fifty celebration kick-off on Saturday, April 21, Seattle City Councilmembers sat down to share their favorite Seattle Center memories. Tune in to our Council Connection blog over the next week as they share their stories.

What:
Seattle City Councilmembers share their Seattle Center memories

When:
Morning and afternoon blog postings, April 16-20, 2012

Where:
Council Connection Blog at http://council.seattle.gov/
Subscribe to the RSS feed at http://council.seattle.gov/feed/

For more information on the Seattle Center's Next Fifty celebration, including the schedule of events, visit http://seattlecenter.com/news/detail.aspx?id=1719.

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council's website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.

Library leaders and city officials join together in support of levy for The Seattle Public Library

Seattle Public Library Board President Marie McCaffrey, City Librarian Marcellus Turner, Mayor Mike McGinn and City Councilmember Richard Conlin announced support for a Library levy to restore cuts and improve core services at a noon press conference at Seattle's Central Library. City officials and Library leaders were joined by scores of Library patrons at the event.

The Library levy would fund increased Library hours, build the collection of books and materials, enhance computers and online services and improve building maintenance. The plan grew out of a two-year process that involved comments from more than 39,000 residents through public meetings, open houses, surveys, focus groups and forums. There were more than 14 million visits to The Seattle Public Library last year and over 11 million books and materials circulated.

The City Council is expected to vote on legislation that would authorize an Aug. 7, 2012, ballot for a Library levy at 2:30 p.m. today.

The seven-year Library levy of $17 million annually would stabilize the Library budget after four years of cuts that have eroded services. The Library has been closed for one week each year since 2009, 15 of 26 branches are closed two days a week, and the budget to buy books and other items has been cut by more than 13 percent since 2009. The levy would also provide an estimated $5 million to address anticipated cuts in 2013. The Library would continue to rely on the city's general fund for the majority of its budget. At about 15 cents per $1,000 of assessed value, the levy would cost the median homeowner approximately $52 a year.

"We owe a huge thank you not only to the mayor and council for their collaboration and support, but also to the people of Seattle who helped shape the plan over the past two years," said McCaffrey. "This is an important step toward completing the vision of the 1998 'Libraries for All' bond measure, which resulted in new and improved libraries across the city."

McGinn said people depend on libraries for access to information and resources they need to succeed. "Libraries are the great equalizers for people of all ages," he said. "A strong Library system contributes to the economic, educational and cultural vitality of our city." He noted that libraries are key partners in supporting his initiatives for youth and families and to bolster civic engagement. "Libraries support our residents looking for work, students needing homework assistance, and people who cannot afford a computer," he said. "Our libraries are educational centers in every community and gathering places for neighborhood meetings and activities."

Conlin initiated a study of alternative funding options for the Library in 2010 after recognizing the city's fiscal challenges and declining tax revenues were affecting services. A levy package grew out of that effort.

"At the City Council's April 3 public hearing, Library patrons spoke to how they have been impacted by the cuts and how critical it was that our libraries be open with the resources and assistance they need," Conlin said. "Libraries are particularly important in challenging economic times and it just doesn't make sense to cut services when people need them the most."

City Librarian Marcellus Turner said the plan was built to reflect the priorities of the community. "Libraries are the city's classrooms for both individuals and the community," he said. "The Library levy will help ensure we can provide essential Library services now and for the next generation of users." 

Ninety-one-year-old Eleanor Owen and local mystery writer Kathrine Beck also spoke about how the Library has helped them, and their families and friends, throughout their lives.

For more information, visit www.spl.org and select "Libraries for All: A Plan for the Present, A Foundation for the Future," or call 206-386-4636.

For more information contact: Andra Addison, communications director, 206-386-4103

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council's website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.

Levy proposal addresses ongoing fiscal challenges and supports critical services

What:
After a two-year process involving the thoughtful contributions of tens of thousands of residents and collaboration between The Seattle Public Library, Mayor’s Office and City Council, a proposal to stabilize Library funding and improve Library services is complete.

Who:
Library Board President Marie McCaffrey, City Librarian Marcellus Turner, Mayor Mike McGinn and Seattle City Councilman Richard Conlin will announce a proposed Library levy to address ongoing financial challenges and support key service priorities: Library hours, collections, technology and building maintenance.

91-year-old Library patron Eleanor Owen and Seattle author Kathrine Beck will also speak about the Library’s importance to the city’s educational, cultural and economic vitality.

Library and city officials will be joined by other members of the City Council and Library Board, as well as the Friends of the Library, Library Foundation and members of the public.

When:
Noon Monday, April 9, 2012

Schedule:
Noon to 12:30 p.m. – Event Remarks
Library Board president, mayor, City Councilman Richard Conlin and city librarian will talk about the levy plan and what it offers the community. Two Library patrons will talk about the importance of libraries in their lives. The press will receive copies of the proposal, “Libraries for All: A Plan for the Present, A Foundation for the Future.”

12:30 p.m. – 1 p.m. - Other Broadcast Opportunities
Library officials, the mayor, City Council members, Library patrons Eleanor Owen and Kathrine Beck, as well as Library Friends and Foundation members available for further interviews. Opportunities to film baby story time, tax assistance program and poetry group and other activities happening in the building. City Council is scheduled to vote on the proposed Library levy for the Aug. 7, 2012 ballot at 2:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers, 600 Fourth Ave.

Where:
The Central Library, 1000 Fourth Ave., Level 3

Information:
Andra Addison, The Seattle Public Library, 206-386-4103, andra.addison@spl.org
Caroline Ullmann, The Seattle Public Library, 206-615-1627, caroline.ullmann@spl.org

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council's website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.

Seattle City Councilmembers Clark, Godden and Harrell to appear on April's City Inside/Out: Council Edition
Email your questions now for Seattle City Councilmembers

SEATTLE – What is the latest with the Department of Justice's investigation of the Seattle Police Department? How will policing change in the City? What role will the Council play in Seattle Center's Next Fifty anniversary celebration? Can residents be involved in this year's budget process? Whatever your questions, submit them now.

The April 10 episode of Seattle Channel's City Inside/Out: Council Edition will feature Councilmembers Sally J. Clark, Jean Godden and Bruce Harrell answering your questions with host Brian Callanan.

Submit your questions for the Councilmembers by Friday, April 6, at noon.

• Email: contact@seattlechannel.org
• Online: http://www.seattlechannel.org/CouncilEdition/
• Twitter: @SeattleChannel
• Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/SeattleChannel
• Simply reply to this email

Don't miss this opportunity to put your issues before the City's lawmakers. Send in your questions now and tune in to Seattle Channel, Cable 21 on Tuesday, April 10, at 7:30 p.m. to hear the councilmembers respond.

Follow SEATTLE CHANNEL on Facebook and Twitter!

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council's website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.

Feedback sought on proposed Seattle Public Library Levy

SEATTLE – Providing funding stability for the Seattle Public Library is a priority for the City of Seattle. Seattle City Councilmembers invite members of the public to provide their feedback on the proposed Library Levy legislation before the Council. 

WHAT:
Public Hearing on the proposed Library Levy

WHEN:
Tuesday, April 3, 5:30 p.m. (Sign up will open at 5 p.m.)

WHERE:
Council Chambers, second floor
Seattle City Hall, 600 Fourth Avenue, Seattle 98104

Over the last two years, the Library has involved over 39,000 residents in strategic planning for the Library's future and setting priorities for Library services. In community surveys, focus groups panel discussions, five open houses, and three community meetings, the people of Seattle came together to identify the priorities for the Library's work now and in the future. Please take this opportunity to share your feedback on the proposed seven year Library Levy.

For more information on the proposed Library Levy, please visit the Council's issue page.  The proposed legislation will likely be voted on at the April 9, meeting of the Special Committee on the Library Levy at 2:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council's website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.

The Globe, spunky, animated symbol of the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, has long served as the city’s unofficial cultural icon. But there were no iron-clad assurances that the words “It’s in the P-I” would keep spinning into the future – until now.

The Globe, all 13.5 tons of it, no longer sits astride the daily newspaper offices that gave it life in 1948.  Three years ago, the Hearst Company, the P-I’s parent, ceased publishing a paper edition, turning the city’s oldest daily into an online only news source. (Check it out at SeattlePI.com). The newsroom, much reduced in size, recently moved to offices several blocks from the waterfront building at Elliott Avenue West on which the P-I Globe sits, rusty and minimally tended.

The Globe’s orphan plight has not gone unnoticed. Three years ago, three Seattle councilmembers, all former journalists, realized that, if the Globe were to escape the scrap metal heap, it would need protection as a landmark. And, unlike process as usual, the three councilmembers vowed to themselves nominate the globe for landmark status.

Three years seems a long time and, yet, the Globe’s landmark designation is only now reaching its critical point. There has been lengthy research – oh, my, the stories the Globe could tell; but more about that later. During those three years, there have been negotiations with the Hearst Company which still owns the Globe and which, fortunately and happily, recognizes the Globe’s status as part of the city’s history.

Add to that a series of negotiations with the Museum of History and Industry (aka MOHAI), the local nonprofit that has stepped up and is willing to accept ownership and responsibility for the iconic sign.  This is a grand gesture for the museum and a wonderful addition to the museum’s storehouse of significant artifacts which, of course, includes such city symbols as Rainier Beer’s giant “R” and the neon tail-wagging dog from the city’s once famed 24-7 Dog House Restaurant.

Rome, as they say, wasn’t built in a day. And neither was the Globe rescued for posterity in an abbreviated period. But, after much process, many meetings and robust discussions, there is finally is progress to report. Today, the Landmark Board will have before it the question of whether – or not – to recommend landmark status to the P-I Globe. Once that is done and terms of the agreement decided, the final vote will be taken by the Seattle City Council.

At that point, the Globe will likely be moved to a temporary storage location until it can be handed over to MOHAI and Executive Director Leonard Garfield. MOHAI is making plans to refurbish the Globe and find a new permanent location for it to reside.

Where the Globe might go next hasn’t yet been definitely decided. There are funds to raise and venues to consider. Garfield has said that the community should be involved in picking a locale.

Some think the ideal location might be near the museum’s new home at South Lake Union or perhaps near Olympic Sculpture Park on the waterfront. One suggestion – this one by Seattle Times reporter Lynn Thompson – is placing the Globe adjacent to the sculpture park’s other neon artwork, “Love & Loss.”

A word now about the globe itself, which was spinning atop the old P-I Building at Sixth and Wall Street when I first went to work at the paper in 1974, feeling elated to think that the world would soon, literally, be on my shoulders. By then, the Globe was already a fixture in the city, the result of a 1940s P-I contest won by University of Washington art student Jakk Corsaw. His entry featured a cylindrical map that shot streaks of light from breaking news across the continents.

The P-I art department refashioned the map into a world globe topped with an 18-foot eagle and encompassing the spinning words “It’s in the P-I.” The redesign was a more agreeable task than the department’s other jobs which included altering news photos to make them suitable for a family paper. Among their jobs: painting out the udders of cows and tracing paths taken by Aurora Avenue Bridge suicides. Artist Ray Collins, in a slightly irreverent mood, once wondered aloud if suicides would kindly take along a roll of toilet tissue to mark their route.

The Globe represents the legacy of those brawling Front Page-like days of the Post-Intelligencer, when reporters, editors and craftsmen fought rivals for scoops and put out a morning paper seven days a week in what one editor described as “an every day miracle.”

The late night crew, an inspired bunch of copywriters, editors and rim rats – among them Dune novelist Frank Herbert and “Even Cowgirls Get the Blues” novelist Tom Robbins — often took their “lunch” break on the Sixth and Wall-Street Building’s roof, next to the Globe, sometimes inhaling dried plant substances and wishing they could say, “Stop the World, I Want to Get Off.” Or now, like me – missing the old print edition and its iconic symbol –  but hoping we can preserve its memories for future generations.

Seattle City Councilmembers Clark, Burgess and Godden nominate PI Globe as official landmark
Hearst Corporation donates Globe to Museum of History & Industry

SEATTLE – Seattle City Councilmembers Sally J. Clark, Jean Godden and Tim Burgess, Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI) Executive Director Leonard Garfield, and the Hearst Corporation today announced plans to forever keep the Seattle Post-Intelligencer Globe in Seattle as a recognized historic landmark.

When the Seattle Post-Intelligencer (PI) newspaper announced its decision to stop the presses and move to an internet-only format in 2009, the three Councilmembers, all former journalists, began working with representatives of Hearst Corporation, MOHAI and the staff of the Landmarks Preservation Board to make sure that the Globe would continue to stay in Seattle as a beloved icon.

Council President Sally J. Clark said, "The PI Globe is like an old friend. Seeing it atop the PI Building not only makes us smile, it also serves as a reminder of the important role that the Post-Intelligencer has played in the history of Seattle and the greater Puget Sound region."

The Globe has been a fixture on Seattle's waterfront on top of the PI Building since it was moved from its original location at Sixth and Wall in 1986.  Hearst Corporation, which owns both the Globe and seattlepi.com, moved most of the pi.com operations to another building last year and does not plan to maintain a long-term presence in the PI Building.

In a letter to Councilmembers Clark, Godden and Burgess, Mark Aldam, president of Hearst Newspapers, thanked the Councilmembers and MOHAI for their work to honor the Globe and celebrated this historic moment in its existence.

"Following the designation of the Globe as a City of Seattle landmark, Hearst will donate the Globe to MOHAI, and MOHAI and the City of Seattle will together work to identify a suitable new home for it," Aldam said. "Hearst is deeply grateful for your dedicated efforts on behalf of the Globe and all it represents, and for the willingness of MOHAI to accept the important role as its new steward."

MOHAI is making plans to refurbish the Globe and to find a new permanent location for it to reside. The Globe will be taken to a temporary storage site for cleaning and maintenance, likely sometime later in 2012.

MOHAI's Executive Director, Leonard Garfield, announced that a campaign will soon be launched to find a new home for the Globe and to fund its restoration and provide for its long-term care. He said, "We thank Hearst for its generous and thoughtful gift. The Globe is one of Seattle's signature icons and we are thrilled that our community will continue to enjoy the Globe for many years to come. We are honored to become the steward of this cherished symbol of Seattle's journalism and our local history."

The City of Seattle is working with MOHAI and Hearst during the transition of ownership, and is in discussions with MOHAI to the Globe to be stored in a former airplane hangar at Magnuson Park during its restoration.

"MOHAI is the perfect caretaker for this historic Seattle icon," said Councilmember Tim Burgess. "We will continue to work with Hearst and the museum to find a permanent home for this landmark. It will forever be a reminder of the importance of a free and independent press."

This afternoon the Globe will be nominated for recognition as a landmark. Historian Mimi Sheridan will make the presentation to the Landmarks Preservation Board on behalf of the Councilmembers. The meeting will begin at 3:30 p.m. in the Seattle Municipal Tower, Room 4060.

"This is truly a great day for the citizens of Seattle. Today we're not only honoring the iconic globe but also decades of high-caliber journalism. For more than 100 years the P-I has been a trusted source of news and chronicler of life here in the Northwest. On behalf of my colleagues on the Council and the citizens of Seattle I want to say thank you to Hearst Corporation and MOHAI for preserving this wonderful gift to our community," said Councilmember Jean Godden, who worked for the Post-Intelligencer as a reporter and columnist.

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council's website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.

Below is a press release the Council sent out this morning detailing the steps we are taking to address the recent discovery of fraud at SPU. Abuse of taxpayer trust is something I will not tolerate. We will act quickly to ensure that this never happens again.

—

Committee calls for independent financial review of Seattle Public Utilities

The Libraries, Utilities, and Center Committee, during this morning’s discussion of fraud at Seattle Public Utilities (SPU), called for an independent review of SPU’s financial practices.

“We need to move forward now to immediately fix this problem.  Ratepayers demand and deserve financial accountability from the utility. And they will get it,” said Councilmember Jean Godden.

The Committee asked the City Auditor—an independent third party—to conduct an investigation of financial controls at SPU, particularly those related to accounts that could be subject to high risk transactions such as the water main accounts.

“The public trust has been broken. Only through systematic review and tight new financial controls can we restore trust and provide the services we all expect,” said Councilmember Sally Bagshaw.

The Committee requested that the City Auditor and SPU report to the Committee with a scope of work by March 27, 2012 and present plan details to the Committee at the April 3, 2012 meeting.

The plan will address the immediate water main extension revenue problem and recommend whether all SPU development fees should be part of the review.

By the end of this week the Committee will send a letter to the City Auditor and SPU detailing issues it would like to see examined in their review.

“The Committee will participate in every step of this process,” said Councilmember Godden. “There will be no discussion of new utility rates until Seattle Public Utilities gets its house in order.”

Seattle City Council to announce update on Seattle Post-Intelligencer Globe
Council working with MOHAI and Landmarks Preservation board to save PI Globe

SEATTLE –  On Wednesday, Seattle City Councilmembers will announce developments in preserving a Seattle treasure, the Seattle PI Globe. Joined by leadership from MOHAI and the Hearst Corporation, Councilmembers will discuss the Globe’s future.

WHAT:
Status update for Seattle Post-Intelligencer Globe preservation

WHEN:
Wednesday, March 7, 11:30 a.m.
                       
WHERE:
Near Seattle City Council Chambers
Seattle City Hall, 600 Fourth Avenue, Second Floor
Seattle, WA 98104

WHO:
Seattle City Council President Sally J. Clark
Councilmember Tim Burgess
Councilmember Jean Godden
Leonard Garfield, MOHAI Director
Historian Mimi Sheridan
           
For more information view the Seattle PI globe’s landmark preservation application.

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council's website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.

Seattle City Council Committee calls for independent financial review of Seattle Public Utilities

SEATTLE – The Libraries, Utilities and Center Committee, during this morning’s discussion of fraud at Seattle Public Utilities (SPU), called for an independent review of SPU’s financial practices.

“We need to move forward now to immediately fix this problem. Ratepayers demand and deserve financial accountability from the utility. And they will get it,” said Councilmember Jean Godden, committee chair.

The Committee asked the City Auditor—an independent third party—to conduct an investigation of financial controls at SPU, particularly those related to accounts that could be subject to high risk transactions such as the water main accounts.

“The public trust has been broken. Only through systematic review and tight new financial controls can we restore trust and provide the services we all expect,” said Councilmember Sally Bagshaw.

The Committee requested that the City Auditor and SPU report to the Committee with a scope of work by March 27, 2012, and present plan details to the Committee at the April 3, 2012, meeting.

The plan will address the immediate water main extension revenue problem and recommend whether all SPU development fees should be part of the review. By the end of this week the Committee will send a letter to the City Auditor and SPU detailing issues it would like to see examined in their review.

“The Committee will participate in every step of this process,” said Councilmember Godden. “There will be no discussion of new utility rates until Seattle Public Utilities gets its house in order.”

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council’s website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.

Seattle City Councilmember Jean Godden's statement on Seattle Public Utilities situation

SEATTLE – Seattle City Councilmember Jean Godden, chair of the Libraries, Utilities and Center (LUC) committee, today released the following statement in response to learning a former city employee has been arrested for a $1 million theft from Seattle Public Utilities (SPU):

"To say that I'm outraged over this revelation is an understatement," said Councilmember Godden, the new chair of the LUC committee, which oversees Seattle Public Utilities. 

"Immediate steps must be taken to recover funds. Although one cannot comment on the accused's guilt or innocence, we must make sure that there are safeguards in place to protect the public's money.

"I have been assured that SPU has immediately responded to this situation and instituted new tight financial controls and oversight.

"This must not, and cannot be allowed to happen ever again. In a time when dollars are scarce we must be more vigilant than ever. We will take a hard look at Seattle Public Utilities’ procedures to protect our taxpayers."

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council's website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.

Seattle City Councilmember Jean Godden’s statement on Seattle Public Utilities situation

SEATTLE – Seattle City Councilmember Jean Godden, chair of the Libraries, Utilities and Center (LUC) committee, today released the following statement in response to learning a former City employee has been arrested for a $1 million theft from Seattle Public Utilities (SPU):

"To say that I’m outraged over this revelation is an understatement," said Councilmember Godden, the new chair of the LUC committee, which oversees Seattle Public Utilities. 

"Immediate steps must be taken to recover funds. Although one cannot comment on the accused’s guilt or innocence, we must make sure that there are safeguards in place to protect the public’s money.

"I have been assured that SPU has immediately responded to this situation and instituted new tight financial controls and oversight.

"This must not, and cannot be allowed to happen ever again. In a time when dollars are scarce we must be more vigilant than ever. We will take a hard look at Seattle Public Utilities’ procedures to protect our taxpayers."

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council’s website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.

 The truth is that Seattle, pre-fair, had been on maps all right, landing there as an obscure footnote to the 19th Century Klondike Gold Rush. But people in the East and Midwest, if they thought about Seattle at all – and most didn’t – believed the city was subarctic, perhaps a suburb of Nome, Alaska. When I studied journalism in Chicago years ago, my colleagues weren’t too sure that we didn’t live in igloos and commute by dog sled.

Thus it was that the 1962 Fair – this year celebrating its 50^th anniversary – did something surprising for a mostly forgotten city:  It branded Seattle in a way no advertising campaign could ever have done. The fair said that Seattle was a happening place, a place celebrating science and bent on opening the doorway to the future. Thanks to a couple of resident ad men (Gerald Hoeck and Marlowe Hartung), the Mad Men of their day, the fair discarded its original musty name (“Festival of the West”) and acquired a timely space-age identity: “Century 21 Exposition.”

The symbol of the fair was The Space Needle, an iconic tower envisioned by Western Hotel’s Eddie Carlson. When Carlson failed to persuade King County to fund his dream, he set up a private corporation. Thus the structure that he was first to visualize and to call “the Space Needle” was born. The design, fleshed out by University of Washington architect Victor Steinbrueck, resembled a saucer-shaped spacecraft about to spin out into the heavens, balanced atop a tripod-like sheaf of wheat. What an apt and remarkable metaphor.

The fair had an uninspiring start in the late 1950s when Seattle Mayor Allan Pomeroy appointed a group of businessmen, headed by Bob Block, to a committee charged with studying sites for city sports and cultural facilities. Despite the failure of a recent bond measure, the committee pushed ahead with a bold $8.5 million bond issue with half earmarked for an Opera House on Capitol Hill and half to develop a sports center on the site of the Civic Auditorium.

Mayor Pomeroy took the plan to the City Council, which definitely was not impressed. It took an initiative campaign and 15,000 signatures to finally get councilmembers’ attention. The Council then appointed its own Civic Center Committee, a group that wisely joined forces with the already operating World’s Fair Commission.

Members of the combined group set out to pick a venue for a fair. They studied a number of potential sites, among them Fort Lawton, First Hill, Sand Point Naval Air Station and Union Bay. Eventually they got around to looking seriously at the Civic Auditorium site, desirable because the city already owned 28 acres there and could purchase more. Eventually, that site was selected and the deal was sealed after the voters passed a bond issue for $7.5 million and the state voted to match that amount.

From that point, there was no turning back. The committee revved into action, meeting almost daily at local hotels for 7 a.m. breakfast meetings. There were dozens of barriers to overcome, including the worry that remote Seattle might not win the coveted prize: official international approval. Other cities, New York City for one, were in competition for the designation that was given only once in a decade. But, miraculously, Seattle won the official nod and, along with it, assurance that nations from all over the world would mount official exhibits at Century 21.

No question that the project now had momentum. Competitions were held to select designs.  And what designs they were. Winner of the competition for the international fountain was a splendid sunflower-shaped motif, 117 water nozzles, music and colored lights, submitted by Shimizu and Kazuyuki Matsushita. The Science Pavilion with its graceful arches and pools was proposed by Seattle-born Minoru Yamasaki and the architectural firm of Naramore, Bain, Brady and Johanson. That these handsome enduring designs both won approval is but one of the enduring legacies of that decades-ago fair.

Primary architect for the fair was Seattle’s own Paul Thiry, who personally designed the Washington State Coliseum to house the state’s “World of Tomorrow” exhibit. Famed feature of the Coliseum was the 150-passenger Bubbleator.  The giant plastic bubble floated through exhibit of the imagined future, piloted by glamorous long-legged models who instructed fair-goers to “step to the rear of the sphere.”

I, alas, was not able to apply for a job piloting the Bubbleator nor for the job of taking passengers via elevator to the Space Needle’s observation deck. Operators needed to be 5 foot 6 and gorgeous. But I did get to leave a small mark on the World’s Fair. The fair designated two official coloring books and my late husband Robert (Bob) Godden, along with his ad-agency partner Ross Swift, was hired by Hayes Distributing Inc. to produce the books. As commercial artists often did, they drew from life and, as fate would have it, almost all adult women in both books could have been my twin sisters.

Aside from coloring books, Godden and Swift did scores of drawings for the fair. They designed a Paul Bunyan Cake, a giant pastry that was the centerpiece for one of the fair’s concluding events. They turned out dozens of ads that appeared in “The Official Guide Book.” They designed punch-out headgear for the Alaska exhibit and shamelessly produced flamboyant “Girls Girls Girls Girls” ads for the scandalous (for the times) adults-only show street extravaganza. Imagine topless beauties (“heavenly bodies”) on display at the “naughty but nice” presentation. It was a reversal for the Seattle City Council, which several years before had deliberated only 24 hours before banning all topless displays.

By contrast, the Seattle World’s Fair presented a tame, slightly naïve, vision of the future. Transported by the Bubbleator, visitors saw plastic domes covering climate-controlled farmlands, the imagined way to grow crops in future years. Visitors viewed off-shore floating sea-farms producing kelp and plankton for the dinner tables of the tomorrow. They saw a highway system, clear of traffic jams, and futuristic transport unburdened by crowds. The interior of “the home of the future” featured a one-unit utility core and a built-in vacuum system. Furnishings were light-weight plastic and the kitchen was seen as a wonder of cordless appliances. All dishes were disposable and the home’s color system could be altered with a switch.

These visions of the future were beyond utopian and unrealistic. But, nevertheless, the fair, rightly, deserves credit for having given the city a substantial foothold into the future, an amazing 74-acre park, devoted to history, to science, to the arts and culture and to the Space Age. It gave Seattle its much-needed “living room,” a place to meet to celebrate victories and personal triumphs and, when needed, to jointly mourn such events as the assassination of the Rev. Martin Luther King and the collapse of the Twin Towers.

The Seattle World’s Fair was the beginning of Seattle Opera, of the cultural fundraising organization Poncho, of the Horiuchi Mural, Seattle Children’s Theater, the Pacific Northwest Ballet and the Seattle Repertory Theatre. It gave us ethnic festivals, the Seattle Shakespeare Theatre, Experience Music Project, Bumbershoot, Folklife, the Kobe Bell, McCaw Hall, KeyArena (aka the Coliseum), the Playhouse, Exhibition Hall and, of course, the stately Space Needle, an icon that everywhere says Seattle.

Portland Mayor Bud Clark was right when he said that Seattle won its place on the world map, the right to dream big, with the 1962 World’s Fair.  All of us who make a home here are indebted to the small group of visionaries who brought us Century 21 and launched the future.

Seattle City Councilmembers praise Governor Gregoire for signing marriage equality bill
Council's marriage equality resolution supports state legislative efforts

SEATTLE –Seattle City Councilmembers today recognized the signing of Senate Bill 6239, concerning civil marriage and domestic partnerships, as Washington state joins other states in support of marriage equality.

January 23, Councilmembers unanimously approved Resolution 31356 declaring full support of state-wide marriage equality, urging the Washington State Legislature to swiftly pass this legislation.

Council President Sally J. Clark said, "I'd like to recognize and thank Gov. Chris Gregoire, Sen. Ed Murray and Rep. Jamie Pedersen, and all the legislators who took this historic step toward equality.  The unprecedented level of community advocacy has been inspiring."

"This achievement is the result of decades of tenacious and courageous work by people throughout Washington," stated Councilmember Tom Rasmussen.  "I especially want to thank Sen. Ed Murray who has worked tirelessly for fairness and equality for the passage of this landmark law."

Councilmember Sally Bagshaw added, "This issue is about fairness. I am inspired by the thoughtful debate that took place amongst our leaders in Olympia, thrilled to see this day come and proud of our state."

"I thank the Governor and the state Legislature for showing strong leadership on marriage equality," said Councilmember Tim Burgess. "This effort has taken great patience and perseverance and today's signing is worthy of celebration."

"I applaud Governor Gregoire and the Legislature for doing the right thing for Washington's residents," said Councilmember Richard Conlin. "As a licensed officiant, I look forward to the opportunity to celebrate and perform wedding ceremonies as soon as this legislation takes effect and I can legally sign the papers."

"I'm thrilled state legislators and the Governor have made marriage equality the law of the land," stated Councilmember Jean Godden. "It's high time we lived in a state that recognizes everyone's equal rights."

"As an advocate for fairness, I am incredibly proud of our Washington State Senate, House of Representatives, and Gov. Gregoire on fighting for marriage equality in our state," said Councilmember Bruce Harrell. "Families come in many forms and all families in our city and state should enjoy equal rights and opportunities. I am overcome with pride that Washington state will continue to build momentum towards marriage equality in the United States, by becoming the 7th state to recognize gay marriage. We all benefit from an environment that promotes equality."

Councilmember Nick Licata stated, "As a longtime supporter of marriage equality,  I'm thrilled today that our state Legislature and Governor agree that though Washington's ‘Everything but marriage' law served its purpose for a time, it fell far short of what's right and fair." 

"This historic step makes me proud to be a Washingtonian. I cannot wait to attend my first official gay wedding and celebrate with friends and family who have been left out of this important institution for too long," stated Councilmember Mike O'Brien.

In February 1997, the City of Seattle adopted Resolution 29535 opposing discrimination against same-sex couples in Washington State and supporting legal recognition of civil marriages for same-sex couples. Supporting marriage equality is also in the City of Seattle's 2012 state legislative agenda.

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council's website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.

Joncas heralded the news that Downtown Seattle’s population has grown 77 percent since 1990, while the city as a whole grew only 19 percent. Nearly 10 percent of Seattleites now live downtown. The city has experienced more residential growth than all of its peer downtowns of Boston, Denver, Charlotte, Minneapolis, Philadelphia, Portland, San Diego and San Francisco.

“Some people want to move down here so much that they’ve even brought their own housing,” Joncas said. The words were barely out of her mouth when the room erupted into  laughter. Behind her, the jumbo screen was showing the tents of Occupy Seattle spread out across Westlake Park.

Joncas had some pending items on her agenda, noting that Seattle still lacks a downtown school despite the fact that there are 3,000 kids 19 years of age and younger living in downtown neighborhoods, nearly 1,000 of those being preschoolers. She lamented that many parents move away when their children reach school age.  There was mention of “too expensive parking rates” and the negative effect they might be having on evening dining in some downtown neighborhoods.

Still there was a lot of good news.  Never shy about Seattle’s accolades, she noted that Seattle is one of the “best cities for young professionals,” “No. 1 post-recession mecca for young skilled workers” and picked as “one of the geekiest cities in America” by the U.S. National Science Foundation.”

She reported that the number of coffee shops (242) in downtown Seattle had rebounded since the recession and is now back to 2009 levels. As she said, “One shop for every 971 Seattleites, but way below our needs.” The number of bars is up 11 percent and, to show that we’re not all geeks, the number of spas is up 171 percent.  Pedestrian counts are up, Joncas said, cheering the  good news that the city has a move underway to clean up 3^rd avenue.

Joncas’ turn at the mike was followed by Blake Nordstrom, president of Nordstrom who cautioned that downtown’s recovery remains “fragile. He spoke about an increased emphasis on four downtown  imperatives: “live, work, shop and play.”  He said that it’s no surprise that Seattle is home to Amazon, recently named the U. S. company with the best service. He said, “What’s important are a company’s values and principles.” No accident that Nordstrom, long known for its outsized dedication to customer satisfaction, also happens to be based in Seattle. Takes one to know one.

Seattle City Council establishes Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs
Coordinated efforts will provide easier to use services to immigrant and refugee communities

SEATTLE – Seattle City Councilmembers today approved 7-0 Council Bill 117394 establishing the Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs as an executive department. By creating one location for immigrant and refugee services, this office will coordinate the City's efforts in reaching and providing services to immigrant and refugee communities.

"The City of Seattle has better invested in the way we serve all residents – including immigrants and refugees," said Councilmember Bruce Harrell, chair of the committee that will oversee the new Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs. "This new office will improve how the City integrates new immigrants and refugees into the civic life of Seattle, as well as help all residents benefit from the diversity of immigrant and refugee cultures. It will be mutually beneficial to all."

The bill recognizes Seattle is home to many immigrant and refugee communities and that language and cultural barriers can compromise equal access to government services and programs. These barriers combined with the complex nature of issues that impact immigrant and refugee communities, resulted in this Council action to strengthen the relationship between government and these communities.

"Immigrant and refugee communities contribute to the vitality of Seattle in countless ways, but they can also have trouble accessing city services," said Councilmember Tim Burgess. "The Council created this office because we saw the need to provide a more coordinated welcome to these individuals and families."

"The Immigrant and Refugee Commission is excited about the new City of Seattle's Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs.  Seattle's Immigrants and refugees have quickly become part of the city's economic life, from the bustling International District downtown to the polyglot scene that is the South East, the most diverse zip code in the nation," said co-chair Devon Abdallah. "What a great way to show commitment to continue to advocate for immigrant and refugees," said co-chair Jesus Rodriguez.  "We are looking forward to having an office coordinating efforts across City departments and a central point of contact for individuals requiring City assistance."

"I am thrilled that we were able to create an office that will reach out to newcomers and serve as a one-stop place to access information and services," stated Councilmember Jean Godden.

"The Office will make city government more accessible and responsive to Seattle's immigrant and refugee communities, which now represent 17 percent of the City's population," said Councilmember Mike O'Brien. "I look forward to working with the new office to better include these communities, our newest residents, in our civic process and life."

"OneAmerica applauds the Council's leadership in creating this office which will help streamline access to services and create innovative ways to recognize and encourage immigrant and refugee communities to participate in city life. The office also provides a clear signal that city government values the input and contribution made by immigrant communities," said OneAmerica Executive Director, Pramila Jayapal.

The bill also renames the Immigrant and Refugee Advisory Board to the Seattle Immigrant and Refugee Commission.  The Seattle City Council created the Immigrant and Refugee Advisory Board and developed an Immigrant and Refugee Action Plan in 2007. The Immigrant and Refugee Commission will work with the City's Race and Social Justice Initiative to integrate principles of social justice and ensure consistency with the Race and Social Justice Initiative.

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council's website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.

Chef Wayne Johnson, Photo from Andaluca

January and February are often months of culinary news:  word of new restaurants opening, old favorites moving to new locations, changing menus and staff. This year is no different.  And the big news is that Wayne Johnson, Andaluca’s Executive Chef, is leaving to take over the kitchen at Ray’s Boathouse.

Andaluca with its vivid décor – purples and burnt ombre — has long been a special place for insiders. It’s a restaurant that locals know well – eclectic and intimate – but are a little hesitant about sharing with newcomers. It’s been nominated time after time as “Seattle’s Most Romantic Restaurant. “ Chef Johnson arrived at Andaluca a dozen years ago. By then, he’d won his stripes as executive chef at the Parc 55 in San Francisco. With him, he brought his innovative approach to Mediteranean cuisine: paellas and shareable Spanish dishes known as pintxos.

Like many of our Seattle chefs, Johnson also brought keen dedication to public service.  You can find him four times a year at the University Family UMCA cooking a free meal for homeless teens. He donates his time at FareStart, the restaurant that trains homeless for the restaurant industry, and he also typically prepares a festive meal for residents at the Admiral Assisted Living facility. 

I have enjoyed many a meal at Andaluca, delighted to be in Johnson’s capable hands. One memorable meal last summer brought together a group of friends. We were lucky enough to have Chef Johnson show up at our table to  tell us about the cuisine and share news from his recent appearance on “Iron Chef America”  (he lost to Chef Michael Symon, but won plaudits for his irresistible smile). The menu that delightful evening at Andaluca was typically gourmet, starting with a stunning chilled green gazpacho with crab. There were delectable duck cakes with apricot chutney and a main course that featured fantastic halibut, smothered in piquant sauces and finished (as if one needed it) with liquid chocolate cake.

Andaluca will miss Chef Johnson, but his colleague Sarah Lorenzen, with whom he has worked for many years, will be taking his place in the kitchen. So, instead of losing a four-star guy, we’ll be gaining a trusted culinary star at Ray’s, a Seattle institution, while still enjoying our most romantic restaurant in Chef Lorenzen’s capable hands.  Our cups and our plates overflow.

This is a great opportunity for Seattle to showcase Seattle Center, as the marathon coincides with the Center’s Next Fifty program — honoring the 50th anniversary of the the World’s Fair. As an ambassador of the Next Fifty program, I am excited about an event that will bring thousands to our city’s hub and that promotes the health and wellness of everyone in our city.

Join your Seattle elected officials at Saturday's City Hall Open House
Office tours and civic education available for visitors

SEATTLE – Mayor Mike McGinn, City Attorney Pete Holmes and members of the Seattle City Council invite residents to City Hall this Saturday for a day of Seattle-centric festivities.

City Hall Open House
Saturday, January 28, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
600 Fourth Ave, Seattle, WA 98104
(enter on Fifth Avenue)

The open house will include tours of the Mayor's Office, City Council offices, and Office of Intergovernmental Relations, a Q&A with Mayor Mike McGinn, and workshops on the legislative process and interpreting credit reports. All departments will be on-hand to answer resident questions and provide information on City-sponsored programs. City Attorney Pete Holmes will be present along with the four new police Precinct Liaisons. The Seattle Animal Shelter will have adoptable animals available at their booth.

Details are as follows:

10 a.m. – 2 p.m.      

City Hall open for visitors, department tabling

City Council offices available for self-guided tours
(Second floor)

Pai's food truck available on Fifth Avenue

Pike Place Farmer's Market available on Fifth Avenue

"How a bill becomes a law" civic education exhibit
(Council Chambers, second floor)

10:15 a.m.                

Remarks by Council President Sally J. Clark
(Bertha Knight Landes Room, first floor)

10:20 – 11:15 a.m.  

Q & A with Mayor Mike McGinn
(Bertha Knight Landes Room, first floor)

11:15 a.m.

Mayor's Honor Song, Arlie Nakeshi, Native American
(Bertha Knight Landes Room, first floor)

12:00 – 12:30 p.m.  How a bill becomes a law workshop
(Council Chambers, second floor)

12:30 – 1:30 p.m.     Financial Empowerment Workshop: Unraveling the mysteries of credit reports/scores by Becky House, American Financial Solutions, a member of the Seattle-King County Asset Building Collaborative
(Floor L2, Room L280)

The following local musical acts will perform from 11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.:

• The Fred Hoadley Trio (Latin Jazz; lobby)
• Arlie Neskahi and Eagle's Jump (Native American Music; seventh floor lobby)

The Farmer's Market on Fifth Avenue will include the following local vendors:

• Martin Family Orchards (apples)
• Sidhu Farms (frozen berries, honey, jam)
• Full Circle Farms (organic winter vegetables)
• Garden Flowers (pickled beets and winter vegetables)
• Alm Hill Gardens (fresh tulips)
• Sammamish Valley Farm (dried flowers and winter vegetables)
• Neng Farm (dried flowers and winter vegetables)
• Xai Cha Farm (dried flowers and winter vegetables)

For more information on tomorrow's Open House, visit www.seattle.gov.

Seattle City Council approves marriage equality resolution
Councilmembers unanimously support state legislative efforts

SEATTLE – Seattle City Councilmembers today unanimously approved Resolution 31356 declaring full support of state-wide marriage equality, urging the Washington State Legislature to swiftly pass Senate Bill 6239. This bill is explicitly intended to end discrimination in marriage based on gender and sexual orientation, while respecting the religious freedom of religious institutions to determine for whom to perform marriage ceremonies.

"I'm sure it's no surprise that the Seattle City Council favors marriage equality," said Council President Sally J. Clark. "We've long been on record in support, and many of my colleagues and I have actively lobbied for the cause. It's heartening to hear the legislature has the support to turn the measure into law."

"As chair of the committee that oversees Seattle's Office for Civil Rights, I wish to thank the members of the Washington State Senate, House of Representatives, and Gov. Gregoire on fighting for marriage equality in our state," said Councilmember Bruce Harrell. "Families come in many forms and all families in our city and state should enjoy equal rights and opportunities.  We all benefit from an environment that promotes equality."

The Council resolution also recognizes that all people are created equal and should be treated as such by their government and provides a formal declaration of support to the state legislature and Gov. Gregoire.

"I'm thrilled to support this resolution urging State Legislators to take the final step toward marriage equality. It's about time we lived in a state which recognizes everyone's equal rights under the law," said Councilmember Jean Godden.

"It's long past time for all people in same-sex relationships to be allowed to marry. Washington's 'everything but marriage' law has served its purpose yet I'm glad that many agree that it still falls short of what right and fair," stated Councilmember Nick Licata. 

"The elected leadership of Seattle stands united in support of the marriage equality legislation," said Councilmember Tim Burgess. "Washington should no longer make distinctions based on sexual orientation. I encourage my colleagues and friends in the state legislature to pass this bill."

In February 1997, the City of Seattle adopted Resolution 29535 opposing discrimination against same-sex couples in Washington State and supporting legal recognition of civil marriages for same-sex couples. Supporting marriage equality is also in the City of Seattle's 2012 state legislative agenda.

"I am so pleased this day has come," stated Councilmember Sally Bagshaw.

"If two people are ready to commit to spend their lives together, they should have the option to get married," said Councilmember Mike O'Brien. "Marriage equality is the civil rights issue of our day, and I fully believe we must grant gay and lesbian couples the same rights and privileges before the state as straight couples."

"As a licensed officiant, I look forward to the opportunity to celebrate and perform wedding ceremonies as soon as this legislation is approved and I can legally sign the papers," added Councilmember Richard Conlin. "Let's make it happen!"

"The City of Seattle has long prided itself on its commitment to equality and diversity. Marriage equality should be afforded to all consenting people," stated Councilmember Tom Rasmussen. "Equality and fairness is good for people and business, and marriage equality will make Washington state more attractive to those who would move here. I applaud the efforts of Gov. Gregoire and the Legislature to pass these bills in this session.

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council's website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.

These folks are not what we think of when we talk about “first responders,” but it is exactly what they were. They were on the front lines doing essential work to make sure our citizens were safe.

They have done their part and done it admirably. And I know that they’ll thank           citizens when they do their part, clearing away debris and making sure that drains are functioning so that the aftermath of Snowzilla goes as smoothly as possible.

Citizens should be alert to any possible problems such as clogged drains and possible water-main breaks that may occur over the next few days because of the rapid change in ground temperature. More information is available at SPU’s website.

The partnership, which involves 23 churches and many hundreds of volunteers, serves approximately 150,000 meals a year to the needy and homeless in the core downtown area.

This outdoor feeding program has come under fire in past years and has been moved from place to place. Currently it is located at 6^th and Columbia, under the freeway. At one time, it was located along side the old Public Safety Building at 4^th and Columbia, since torn down. Then it was relocated to City Hall Park.

I recall 2004, when then Mayor Greg Nickels thought that it should be against the law to serve a warm meal at the park. At that time, he issued a release stating that volunteers would be arrested. So I called home and said I hoped they’d bail me out. I walked down to the park, intending to serve a meal, which I had done previously, fully expecting to end up in jail. However, by the time, I started dishing up cooked corn, sandwiched between then Councilmember Peter Steinbrueck and Father Michael Ryan of Saint James Cathedral, the mayor had changed his mind.

Later the outdoor feeding program was moved to the First Presbyterian Church parking lot at 8^th and Columbia and then, eventually, to the under-Freeway location. The Meals Partnership Coalition had hoped to find a place where they could serve both indoor and outdoor meals from a community kitchen and had even proposed a plan that would share expenses with the city.

So it was an unpleasant surprise to find the organization caught off-guard by Human Services Department Director Danette Smith and Deputy Mayor Daryl Smith. The volunteers were told that, by serving outdoor meals, they were “disrespectful” of the needy and that what they were doing was “inhumane.” The Smiths (no relation) want the service to move indoors, possibly at two or three downtown locations. They also have proposed moving operations to the Indian Service Center Building, which Meals Partnership’s Shayne Kramer and Operation Sack Lunch’s Beverly Graham believe is unsuitable and located too far from the core downtown area.

Westneat’s column pointed out the irony of the Mayor’s Office celebrating outdoor eating at trendy food carts for paying customers at the same time wanting to shut down outdoor eating for the homeless. It does seem curious that the Mayor also has been a champion of Nickelsville, an outdoor encampment of homeless that probably also engages in outdoor consumption. Apparently, consistency is not as strong a precept here.

But that aside, I believe in putting my thoughts out there on this issue. I don’t believe there should be any shutdown of the program until and unless there is an adequate alternative. There should be no gap in service. And, while it would be ideal to offer indoor programs, there apparently continues to exist a need for outdoor meals as well. And, while we do hope to end homelessness with the 10-year plan, there are homeless on our streets and the least we can do is to ensure that they are fed, particularly since there are hundreds of volunteers willing to do so.

Councilmembers that I have heard from – Councilmember Sally Bagshaw for one —  have been equally strong on this issue.  There have been requests for briefings from the Human Service Department and from its director. The fact that the weather has been so lousy the last few days has delayed communications. But, remember, there are still hungry people and willing volunteers who are braving the weather for out-door meals and this needs to continue – must continue – until we have better alternatives.

Update: HSD Director Danette Smith announced that she has agreed to work with a taskforce of meal providers over the next six months to develop and implement a proposal made by Operation Sack Lunch.  The proposal calls for a centralized kitchen concept that would have an indoor and outdoor component. HSD has pledged to only relocate the outdoor meal program when they know that an alternative is in place to serve the same number of people who currently are served by the outdoor program.

King County, Seattle, Port promote awareness of human trafficking
Agencies will hold event tomorrow to highlight regional solutions

SEATTLE – In advance of Human Trafficking Awareness Day, recognized nationally on January 11, the King County Council, Port of Seattle Commission, and Seattle City Council passed recent legislation to shine a spotlight on the horrific problem of human trafficking. 

 "In Washington, we can be proud that we were the first state in the union to criminalize human trafficking, and King County successfully prosecuted the state's first human trafficking case." said King County Councilmember Kathy Lambert, who co-sponsored the County proclamation. "The unique partnerships we have been able to create here are making a difference by strengthening tools for law enforcement and the courts to help protect immigrants and teens from being forced into servitude and prostitution, as well as increasing penalties for convicted traffickers."

As many as 17,500 people are trafficked annually into the United States.  Mostly women and children, these individuals endure forced labor, sexual exploitation, debt bondage, and forced marriages – prison terms that have no end date and no hope for release.

"Our borders should always be open to trade and tourism, but they should never be open to human trafficking," said Port of Seattle Commission President Gael Tarleton. 

By working together, the three agencies, along with local and federal law enforcement partners, hope to increase awareness of this terrible issue – and with that awareness, heighten both reporting of activities and conviction of those who benefit from the misery of others.

"Human trafficking is a grave issue that thousands of people face in our State. It requires broad partnership across jurisdictions and I'm proud of the statement we are making together with this proclamation," noted Seattle City Councilmember Mike O'Brien.

"Human trafficking is a modern form of slavery and needs to be eradicated permanently," said King County Councilmember Reagan Dunn. "It's important that we increase public awareness of the warning signs and heal the victims."
Human Trafficking Awareness Day is Wednesday, January 11, and the three agencies will be joined by community and law enforcement leaders to announce new tools for both law enforcement officials and citizens and unveil solutions to prevent this modern-day slavery.  The event will be held at 1:30 p.m. at Seattle City Hall.

Read the King County Council proclamation here.

Read the Port of Seattle proclamation here.

Read the City of Seattle proclamation here.

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council's website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.

Jean addresses audience at her swearing-in on January 9th, 2012

Today I am excited – more than I ever have been – about the future of Seattle. This is the city that we all love.  The opportunity to continue serving my city belongs in the realm of dreams come true.

I have a vision for this city – a grand one that soon will be freed from a crumbling Viaduct that fenced us from the world’s sweetest deep-water harbor. I see a city that finally will be framed by a wonderful nine-acre parkland, an exciting whirlwind of activity, a skein of green pathways and trails.  A waterfront for all of us, not just for cars, buses and trucks.

It is this amazing remake that I longed for even before my first election night eight years ago, a chance at last to unite the city with its promise of greatness.

For, at last, Seattle is beginning to emerge from the depths of a cruel four-year-long recession. I’m proud to have served as the council’s Budget chair throughout the lean years, uncomfortable with the choices that had to be made, but grateful to my colleagues for their help in keeping the city’s core services strong.

In the next two years, I will be serving the city as chair of my dream committee, one that I plan to call LUC – I think of it as Good LUK. I will be overseeing Library, Utilities and Seattle Center. Being given an opportunity to oversee these Seattle institutions is a dazzling prospect. The Library is truly Seattle’s proudest accomplishment, a handsome central library with 26 community branches and, even with the constraints of a lean budget, able to serve more of its citizens, circulate more books, fill more requests than ever before in history. It’s impossible to imagine an establishment more beloved.

No less a dream assignment is to be able to work with Seattle Public Utilities, one of THE most important of the city’s services. Provision of drinkable water, the working of the all-important drainage and waste systems and development of exciting, innovative approaches to reach our goal of zero waste are what will define Seattle as the progressive city that we all want it to be.

Jean and her family at her swearing-in on January 9th, 2012

Finally, my committee also will have the honor of overseeing the Seattle Center, the 74-acre legacy from Seattle’s 1962 World’s Fair.  No one loves this cultural and recreational asset as much as I always have. As we embark on “The Next 50,” plans  for the park’s future, I will focus on making it what Center Superintendent Robert Nellams has called “Seattle’s living room.”

Indeed, it is the place where all people, all families, all cultures and all visitors are welcome and treated as equals. It houses some of the city’s most prized cultural resources, as well as an arena that can offer entertainment, sports excitement and musical pleasure. It is here that people come to cheer sports championships, to grieve for mutual loss and to welcome new citizens.

The Center is just that – the Center – and will continue to center our world.

So, friends and family, colleagues and advocates, dear employees and constituents, and all of you who have invested in these experienced bones to help realize Seattle’s potential: know I am deeply grateful for your renewing my contract to serve the best place of any place. Know that I will never take a moment off from the job you have let me keep and know that no one will serve you prouder than I will.

Thank you and let the work begin.

Seattle City Council debuts new homepage
New design easier to navigate

SEATTLE – Along with confirming their new 2012-2013 Council President and committee assignments, the Seattle City Council today introduced a new seattle.gov/council/ homepage. The homepage also features the Council's newly-released 2011 annual report.

The new homepage design utilizes components of the new seattle.gov look and feel in an effort to better convey legislative information to Seattleites.  Along with highlighting Council's initiatives and legislation, the homepage features RSS feeds of the calendar and the Council Connections blog, links to issue-specific pages and the Councilmember's 2012 individual and group photos. 

The Council Connections blog is more prominently featured on the homepage and is the one-stop-shop for news and updates from the Council.  This aggregator site includes Councilmember blog posts, Council-issued news releases and information from the City Clerk's office.  Found on the homepage, this feature is also accessible here.

Of note to media outlets, the 2012 individual and group Councilmember photos are available in the Council newsroom. 

For more information on the 2012 committee assignments or to sign up to receive agendas, visit here.

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council's website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.

Seattle City Council to focus on economic recovery in 2012
Sally J. Clark confirmed as Council President, Councilmembers take oath of office

SEATTLE – Led by newly sworn in president Sally J. Clark, the Seattle City Council reaffirmed their commitment to economic recovery and strengthening regional partnerships at today's swearing in ceremony. Returning Councilmembers Tim Burgess, Jean Godden, Bruce Harrell, and Tom Rasmussen were sworn in today in the traditional Oath of Office ceremony.

Family, friends and colleagues filled the Seattle City Council chambers to celebrate new local government leadership. Each elected official was sworn in by someone of their choice and gave brief remarks.

This year the Council's focus is all about resilience; about taking big and small actions to keep Seattle working. Seattle, like most cities across the United States, labors to provide services and meet public obligations. This will be another year of budget cuts and lay-offs, but there's much that city government can and must do to stoke business and individual success.

As new Council President, Sally J. Clark stated, "We are a Council committed to seeing Seattle through this economic downturn by collaborating with other regional governments, streamlining licenses and permits, and following through on capital projects and infrastructure needed by business and residents."

"I would like to thank the voters of Seattle for their strong support and trust in reelecting me to the City Council," said Councilmember Tom Rasmussen.  "This is a time of extraordinary opportunity for Seattle.  I am excited to be working for the great future that we have before us."

"This year, my colleagues and I will move Seattle forward by reimagining and reshaping our waterfront, building strong relationships with our regional partners , and working to ensure Seattle Public Utilities continues to deliver excellent service at affordable rates," added Councilmember Jean Godden.

"I am grateful and energized to start a new term in office in charge of a new committee," said Councilmember Tim Burgess. "In a time of continued budget difficulties, we will work collaboratively with the Mayor, City employees and the public to raise the performance of City departments, strengthen accountability and increase citizen access to government."

Councilmember Bruce Harrell said, "I am honored that the people of Seattle re-elected me to serve another term on the City Council. I am excited about the coming year, addressing the Department of Justice's report of the Seattle Police Department and the opportunities that chairing the Public Safety, Civil Rights and Technology committee will bring."

"This year, parks and neighborhoods are joining forces in one committee, said Councilmember Sally Bagshaw. "This is a natural fit as parks improve quality of life in our neighborhoods and help to build community.  I look forward to continuing to work with neighbors across the city to make our parks, roads, sidewalks safe and accessible to all."

"Sally Clark will be a great Council President," stated outgoing Council President Richard Conlin. "I am looking forward to the work on planning and land use issues.  I am confident that 2012 will be another successful and productive for this Council."

"I congratulate my colleagues for their reelections," said Councilmember Mike O'Brien. "In my new role as Chair of the Energy and Environment Committee I look forward to continue exploring opportunities to help Seattle meet its goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050."

Today's inauguration ceremony served as an opportunity for the public to witness and participate in their government. The ceremony was broadcast live on the Seattle Channel and can be viewed here.

For more information on the 2012 committee assignments or to sign up to receive agendas, visit here.

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council's website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.

Seattle City Council to hold inaugural ceremony
Council to confirm president, newly-elected Councilmembers and committees on Monday

SEATTLE – The Seattle City Council will hold the Oath of Office ceremony and vote on new council committees, established by Resolution 31350 at the Full Council meeting, Monday, January 9, at 2 p.m. The next Council President will also be confirmed at this time. A reception will be held in the Bertha Knight Landes room after Full Council adjourns.

WHAT:
Oath of Office, confirmation of Council President and 2012 committee assignments
Reception following

WHEN:
Monday, January 9th, 2 p.m.

WHERE:
Seattle City Council Chambers
600 4th Avenue, 2nd Floor
Seattle, WA 98104

WHO:
Seattle City Councilmembers

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council's website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.

It means that Seattle will be able to finance capital improvements through the selling of general bonds with lower interest rates than might otherwise have been imposed.

This positive outcome – the maintaining of the city’s high credit rating – would be worth trumpeting at any time. But it is especially great news at a time when Seattle is talking about large capital projects such as the rebuilding of the seawall along the waterfront.

One of the reasons why Seattle’s triple-A rating was affirmed likely is because of the city’s sound economic status. The city is not as dependent on federal projects as some other municipalities. That was a concerna few months ago when the federal government faced a possible downgrade due to congressional inaction on the budget.  At that time, it looked as if some local governments and institutions would be adversely affected. Seattle and the University of Washington were two entities that were mentioned in the press as vulnerable to a federal default.

But because of the city’s continued relatively stable economy and because the federal debt crisis has been resolved, the threat was averted.

Bolstering bond agencies view of the city’s financial stability were also several proactive steps that the city successfully undertook to avert downgrading. One of the steps taken was the Seattle City Council’s approval of an adjustment made to interest rates paid on new contributions to the city’s pension fund. Modifying the interest rate was an important step toward maintaining the system’s continued sustainability. In addition, increased contributions on the part of the city and its employees have underscored the strength of the city’s pension system.

When the City Council voted on the city’s 2012 Budget in November, councilmembers took another proactive step. They voted to adopt a new policy that will shore up the Rainy Day Fund, which was used  and somewhat depleted to cover shortfalls in lean times. The city now has in place a policy that will serve to replenish that Rainy Day Fund and keep it stronger in the future. Councilmembers deemed that it was time to take that step to ensure that the city will have funds to keep city services strong even in lean times.

The work to repair the Rainy Day Fund with provisions for automatic annual contributions and added extra replenishment in good times was the right move and one that, apparently, was appreciated by ratings agencies.

Seattle, as a city, and the Puget Sound region as a whole is one of the most dynamic regions in the nation. And now, thanks to confirmation of our high ratings, we will be able to move forward.

In preparation for 2012, the Seattle City Council has drafted likely committee assignments to be established by Resolution at Full Council meeting, January 9, at 2 p.m. The next Council President will also be confirmed at this time. Committee terms are two years.

WHAT:           Confirmation of Council President and 2012 committee assignments

WHEN:          Monday, January 9, 2 p.m.

WHERE:        Seattle City Council Chambers, 600 Fourth Avenue, Second Floor, Seattle, WA 98104

WHO:             Seattle City Councilmembers

Seattle joins global movement to protect marine wildlife
City Council unanimously votes to ban plastic carry out bags

Seattle – Today the Seattle City Council unanimously voted to pass Council Bill 117345, a bill to protect Puget Sound and protect marine wildlife by banning plastic carry-out bags. The bill encourages the use of reusable shopping bags by requiring grocers and retailers to charge a nickel for paper bags.

Washingtonians use more than 2 billion single-use plastic bags each year. Seattle alone uses approximately 292 million plastic bags annually, only 13% of which are recycled, according to Seattle Public Utilities.

"This bill is a great example of a broad and diverse coalition of people and organizations coming together to do the right thing for our environment," said prime sponsor, City Councilmember Mike O'Brien, chair of the Seattle Public Utilities and Neighborhoods Committee. "We have the support of grocers, retailers, restaurants, labor unions, and environmental organizations in Seattle. We also have broad grassroots involvement from residents who have been emailing and calling in support of this issue for months now."

Environmental organizations in support of the plastic bag ban include Environment Washington, People for Puget Sound, Surfrider Foundation, Sierra Club, and Zero Waste Seattle. The bill is also supported by the Northwest Grocery Association, the Washington Restaurant Association, United Food and Commercial Workers Local 21, and some local independent grocers, such as Metropolitan Market, Town & Country Markets, PCC, and Central Co-op.

"We know that recycling alone cannot protect Puget Sound and our ocean waters from these plastic bags," said Councilmember O'Brien. "Of course people are not intentionally littering their bags into Puget Sound, but with so many in circulation, bags are ending up there, causing real damage to habitats and wildlife. Bringing our own reusable bags when we go shopping is a simple step we can all take that will protect our environment and reduce unnecessary waste."

"In the last few years, we have learned much more about how much plastic is in Puget Sound and the impact it has on marine wildlife," said Katrina Rosen, Field Director for Environment Washington. "Banning plastic bags is an important step we must take to protect Puget Sound wildlife and we are happy to see City Council stepping up to be a part of this growing global movement."

Seattle is the fourth city in Washington to ban plastic bags following Edmonds, Bellingham, and, most recently, Mukilteo. Regionally, Seattle joins the Hawaiian islands of Maui and Kauai, more than a dozen municipalities in California—such as San Francisco, San Jose, Malibu, and Los Angeles County—more than 30 coastal towns in Alaska, and neighboring Portland in taking action against plastic bags. Additionally, at least 20 nations have also enacted efforts to reduce or eliminate plastic bag use, including Germany, Ireland, China, Taiwan, India, and Kenya.

The ordinance will go into effect July 1, 2012. Seattle Public Utilities will be responsible for outreach to businesses and public education over the next six months and after the law takes effect. The utilities' solid waste division will also monitor and enforce the ordinance.

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council's website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.

Seattle City Council passes legislation to improve safety and oversight of limousine industry in Seattle

SEATTLE – Today the Seattle City Council, by a vote of 8-0, passed C.B. 117358 giving the City authority to enforce state laws governing limousines.  Oversight of limousines is the responsibility of state agencies but due to funding issues they have not been able to enforce rules.  As a result, the industry operates unregulated, often times illegally, at the expense of the taxi cab industry and customer safety. This is especially evident at the downtown Colman Ferry Dock where unlicensed limousine drivers illegally pick up incoming ferry passengers. 

This bill gives the City new enforcement responsibilities and adds sections to the Seattle Municipal Code outlining regulations, programming, and fees. The bill also authorizes the City to accept up to $130,000 from the state to carry out this new body of work. 

"For far too long the safety of our citizens and the livelihood of taxicab and law abiding limousine drivers have been compromised due to lack of industry oversight. I am especially grateful for the hard work of the late Senator Scott White, who earlier this year introduced legislation to transfer authority to the City to improve customer safety and bring about accountability of limousine drivers," said Councilmember Jean Godden, Chair of the Finance and Budget Committee.

The City will begin its regulation of the limousine industry in January 2012. 

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council's website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.

SEATTLE - Mayor Mike McGinn announced today Moody's Investor Service has removed its "negative outlook" on its Aaa/Aa1 rating of the City of Seattle general obligation bonds.

"We are pleased with Moody's decision," McGinn said. "It underscores our belief that the local economy and the City's finances are fundamentally strong, diversified and well managed. Our experience weathering the recent recession demonstrates this resilience."

McGinn noted this is good news for taxpayers because maintaining strong bond ratings means the City can borrow money at lower interest rates for long-term investments in its infrastructure.

McGinn said preserving the City's strong credit rating is a top priority. "While Seattle faces continued economic challenges, I remain committed to making smart policy decisions to maintain our high credit rating," he said. "I appreciate the Council's adoption of our 2012 budget proposal to build up our rainy day fund and I look forward to working with them as we close the anticipated $50 million budget deficit for 2013-2014."

Since 2010, the City has taken a number of proactive steps to improve the City's financial position. The Mayor, working with the Council, developed a budget plan for 2011 that closed a $67 million General Fund budget gap. The City has closed another $18 million budget gap for the 2012 budget. In both cases this was done without raising general taxes. In addition, the City adopted a more robust set of policies that will better position the City to shore up its Rainy Day Fund. And the City adopted a plan that will turn around the once-underfunded City pension system.

In August, Moody's Investor Services had placed the City of Seattle on a list of 161 highly rated local governments receiving a "negative outlook" due to their potential exposure to the weakening credit of the federal government.This action followed Moody's negative outlook on the U.S. government bond rating. A negative outlook means that the bond rating may be downgraded within the next few months. Removing the "the negative outlook" means that the City's rating will not likely be downgraded due to the weakening of the federal government's credit.

"The Puget Sound economy is one of the most dynamic in the nation," said Council Budget Chair Jean Godden. "Home to many large and growing internationally oriented companies, our well-balanced and diversified economy is well-positioned as we move forward."

Since August, Moody's has reviewed each of the highly rated local governments on its list to determine if the "negative outlook" should be maintained. In October, Seattle officials discussed the limited significance of the federal government to the local economy and to City revenues. Moody's has since decided that the City of Seattle's vulnerability to the federal government's credit was insufficient to warrant maintaining the "negative outlook."

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Office of the Mayor

Seattle City Council congratulates Boeing and Machinists on reaching agreement
on 737 MAX plans

SEATTLE – The Seattle City Council issued the following statement on the announcement of a tentative agreement between The Boeing Company and the Machinists to produce the 737 MAX in the northwest:

"We applaud the Boeing Company and the Machinists for working together to reach this tentative agreement. If approved, this contract will invigorate our regional economy and support thousands of jobs for the region. This agreement is an important example of what can be accomplished when business and labor work together to reach mutual understanding. It is a big win for Seattle, the greater Puget Sound region and the state of Washington."

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council's website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.

Seattle City Council adopts 2012-2013 budget
Council balance package of cuts with preserving essential services

SEATTLE – Councilmember Jean Godden who serves as the Budget committee chair released the following statement today on the City's 2012-2013 approved budget:

"Seattle City Councilmembers focused on maintaining critical city services while pursuing cuts to provide the leanest city government possible in the face of another year of federal and state economic woes.

"On behalf of the City Council, I want to share our sincere gratitude to all Seattleites for their important contributions to this budget process, as well as all the hard working city employees whom we continue to ask to do more with less.

"We know we have a long road ahead as we await further cuts from the state legislature and federal government. However, we will remain steadfast to our commitment to the most vulnerable in our City."

2012 City Council Budget Highlights

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council's website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.

Seattle joins regional and global movement to ban single-use plastic bags
Plastic bags proven to be major threat to health of Puget Sound and ocean marine life

Seattle – Today Seattle City Council introduced Council Bill 117345, intended to help clean up Puget Sound and protect marine wildlife by banning single-use plastic bags. This legislation gives Seattle an opportunity to join Bellingham and Edmonds in Washington, as well as cities up and down the West Coast and more than 20 nations worldwide in efforts to curb the impact of single-use plastic bags on the environment.

Washingtonians use more than 2 billion single-use plastic bags each year. Seattle alone uses approximately 292 million plastic bags annually. A recent report by Environment Washington provides compelling evidence of the damage these bags cause to marine life.

"We all remember the beached grey whale found dead in West Seattle last year with 20 plastic bags in its stomach. The problem plastics pose for the Sound and ocean is pervasive and alarming," said prime sponsor, Councilmember Mike O'Brien. "These bags provide minutes of use for us as consumers, but because they are not biodegradable are with us in the environment for hundreds of years."

"We have learned so much more in the past few years about the harmful impacts of these plastic bags on our waters," said Tom Bancroft, Executive Director of People for Puget Sound. "Studies show birds, sea turtles and other wildlife often mistake the plastic for food. Not only are tiny bits of plastic accumulating in the Sound and ocean, these plastics may be a pathway for toxic chemicals to get into wildlife. We owe it to future generations to curb our use of these bags now, before we do irreparable harm to Puget Sound and the Pacific Ocean."

In addition to a ban on plastic bags, the ordinance will promote reusable bags instead of simply switching to disposable paper bags. The law would require that retailers charge a five-cent pass through cost on each paper bag to consumers who do not bring reusable bags. The nickel serves as a reminder to consumers to bring reusable bags. Retailers would keep the nickel as a means for recovering costs of switching to paper bags.

"I said last year that Seattle needed bold, decisive action and that we needed an outright ban on plastic bags. It's time for Seattle to demonstrate our environmental leadership and join the growing movement against these bags," said Councilmember Tim Burgess.

"Using the Bellingham model is a smart approach that addresses concerns raised by Seattle voters when they voted down the 2008 ordinance. It addresses concerns about taxes by allowing grocers and retailers to keep the fee on paper bags to cover costs, and addresses concerns about impacts on low-income people by exempting those on assistance programs," said Councilmember Nick Licata.

"This initiative is a logical next step in Seattle's commitment to Zero Waste, a successful effort I spearheaded to increase our recycling rate and cap our total tonnage of garbage at 2006 levels," said Council President Richard Conlin.  "Promoting reusable materials is crucial to our Zero Waste goal.  I'm confident that this approach to decreasing the use of disposable bags will be workable for consumers and retailers alike."

The bill introduced by Councilmember O'Brien is co-sponsored by Council President Conlin and Councilmembers Bagshaw, Burgess, Clark, Godden, and Licata. Seattle's bag ban would go live six months from passage of the ordinance. The ordinance is nearly identical to the Bellingham law that was passed in July 2011 and will go into effect in July 2012. For grocers and other retailers, consistency in the legislation across the region is seen as crucial for adapting their business models.

Seattle Public Utilities would be responsible for outreach and education with Seattle businesses to aide in the transition to the new law. The utilities' solid waste division would also manage monitoring and enforcement once the ban goes into effect.

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast and Webcast live on Seattle Channel 21 and on the City Council's website. Copies of legislation, Council meeting calendar, and archives of news releases can be found on the City Council website. Follow the Council on Twitter and on Facebook.