HomeMy WebLinkAboutPED 2020-06-01 COMPLETE AGENDA PACKETCity of Tukwila
Planning & Economic
Development Committee
O Thomas McLeod, Chair
O Kathy Hougardy
O Zak Idan
AGENDA
MONDAY, JUNE 11 ZOZO — 5:30 PM
VIRTUAL MEETING
Distribution:
T. McLeod
Mayor Ekberg
K. Hougardy
D. Cline
Z. Idan
R. Bianchi
D. Quinn
C. O'Flaherty
A. Youn
L. Humphrey
THIS MEETING WILL BE CONDUCTED ELECTRONICALLY, WITH THE
CITY COUNCIL, MAYOR AND STAFF OFF —SITE.
THE PHONE NUMBER FOR THE PUBLIC TO LISTEN TO THIS MEETING
Is: 1-253-292-9750, Access Code 586582254#
THE COUNCIL CHAMBER LOBBY IN TUKWILA CITY HALL, 6200 SOUTHCENTER
BOULEVARD, TUKWILA, WILL BE OPEN AND AVAILABLE FOR THE PUBLIC TO
LISTEN BY PHONE PURSUANT TO THE OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT.
Item
Recommended Action
Page
1. BUSINESS AGENDA
a. Discussion of policies related to lodging tax.
a. Discussion only.
Pg.1
Brandon Miles, Business Relations Manager
b. Discussion of City branding.
b. Discussion only.
Pg.17
Brandon Miles, Business Relations Manager
c. Business Recovery: An update on the State's
c. Discussion only.
Pg.31
business reopening phases.
Derek Speck, Economic Development Administrator
d. SavingLocalKC.com update.
d. Discussion only.
Brandon Miles, Business Relations Manager
2. MISCELLANEOUS
Next Scheduled Meeting: June 15, ZOZO
SThe City of Tukwila strives to accommodate individuals with disabilities.
Please contact the City Clerk's Office at 206-433-1800(TukwilaCityClerk(a�TukwilaWA.gov) for assistance.
City of Tukwila
Allan Ekberg, Mayor
INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
TO: Planning and Economic Development
FROM: Brandon Miles, Business Relations Manager
CC: Mayor Ekberg
DATE: May 20, 2020
SUBJECT: Tourism Funding Discussion
ISSUE
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on the economy and role of tourism in business
recovery, staff would like to provide an overview and background on how the City uses the
lodging tax and TPA funds.
BACKGROUND
Over the last 20 years the City Council has authorized the collection of two separate revenue
sources for tourism funding. These revenue sources include the City's lodging lax and Tourism
Promotion Area (TPA) fee. In 2019, in total just over $1.5 million of combined funds were
collected through the lodging tax and TPA fee. In light of COVID-19 pandemic's impact on the
overall economy and role of tourism in business recovery, staff would like to provide an
overview and background on how the City's uses the lodging tax and TPA funds. Each of the
two revenue sources is authorized under a separate RCW and each have specific limitations on
how the funds can be used.
Lodging Tax
Statutory Authority
Lodging tax (City's 101 Fund) is collected pursuant to RCW 67.28 and TMC 3.40. State law
allows the City to collect 1 % on eligible stays in lodging businesses (hotels, extended stays,
motels, bread and breakfasts, and Airbnbs). Certain stays for emergency housing and for any
stay in a lodging business that exceeds 30-days are exempt from the tax. Like retail sales tax,
the lodging tax is remitted by the lodging businesses to the Department of Revenue and the
remitted back to the city two months after collection.
Allowable Uses
RCW 67.28.1818 limits the use of lodging tax funds as follows:
'A// revenue from taxes imposed under this chapter shall be credited to a special fund in the
treasury of the municipality imposing such tax and used solely for the purpose of paying all or
any part of the cost of tourism' promotionz, acquisition3 of tourism relations facilities, or
operation of tourism related -facilities."
' RCW 67.28.080 defines `Tourism' as "economic activity resulting from tourists, which m ay includes sales of
overnight lodging, meals, tours, gifts, or souvenirs."
2 RCW 67.28.080 (6) defines `Tourism Promotion' as "...activities, operations, and expenditures designed to
increase tourism, including but not limited to advertisings, publicizing, or otherwise distributing information for the
purpose of attracting and welcoming tourists; developing strategies to expand tourism; operation tourism promotion
agencies; and funding the marketing of or the operation of special events and festivals designed to attract tourist."
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 2
RCW 67.28.1816 goes into further detail about permitted expenditures of lodging tax funds,
specifying:
"Lodging tax revenues under this chapter may be used, directly by any municipality or indirectly
through a convention and visitors bureau or destination marketing organization for. -
(a) Tourism marketing;
(b) The marketing and operations of special events and festivals designed to attract tourists;
(c) Supporting the operations and capital expenditures of tourism related facilities owned or
operated by a municipality or public facilities district created under chapters 35.57 and
36.100 RCW; or
(d) Supporting the operations of tourism related facilities owned or operated by nonprofit
organizations described under 26 U. S. C Sec. 501(c) (3) and 26 U. S. C Sec. 501 (c) (6) of
the internal revenue code of 1986, as amended.
It is important to point out that RCW 67.28 provides no definition of "tourist." Historically, the City
of Tukwila has defined as a "tourist" as someone who lives outside of Tukwila and visits the
City, either for a day or to spend the night. Additionally, there is a common misconception that
lodging tax funds can only be used to support activities that create "heads in beds" or travel
more than 50 miles. Again, this is not a requirement of State law. While the City must report
metrics, such as hotel stays and visitors, when using lodging tax funds. The funds do not have
to be awarded to activities that solely generate hotel room nights.
Under current state law, lodging tax funds cannot be used to support general city operations or
activities. Attached is a memo presented to the City Council in 2016, which provides more
details on allowable uses of lodging tax funds.
Status of Fund
As of May 7, 2020, there was $1.985 million in the City's lodging tax fund. In 2019, annual
revenues for lodging tax collection was just over $800,000. With the sharp drop off in travel, the
City is forecasting a significant drop off in lodging tax collection for 2020 and possibly for 2021.
The City is contractually obligated through 2020 to provide Seattle Southside Regional Tourism
Authority (SSRTA) $202,500 in lodging tax funds. Additionally, the City has two approved
applications to the City's Parks and Recreation Department of $40,000 for art along Baker Blvd
and $125,000 to help fund a master plan for Tukwila Pond4.
There is no requirement that the lodging tax fund be spent down annually. Unspent funds will
remain in the 101 fund and can be used in future years, subject to the use limitations outlined
above.
Historical Use of Funds
The largest single recipient of lodging tax funds from the City over the last 18 years has been
SSRTA. Until 2015, SSRTA was operated as Seattle Southside Visitor Service (SSVS) by the
City of Tukwila. The Museum of Flight, City of Tukwila, Starfire Sports, Renton Chamber of
3 RCW 67.28.080 (1) provides the following definition of `Acquisition' "...siting, acquisition, design, construction,
refurbishing, expansion, repair, and improvement, including paying or securing the payment of all or any portion of
general obligation bonds, leases, revenue bonds, or other obligations issued or incurred for such purposes..."
a The City also had an approved application and contract with the Seattle Seawolves, but this contract was canceled
due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Virtual Sports also had an approved application and staff has not yet entered into a
contract due to the scope of work being impacted by Stay Home, Stay Healthy Order.
https://tukwilawa.sharepoint.com/sites/mayorsoffice/cc/Council Agenda Items/Mayor's Office/2020, Lodging Tax Memos/MEMO, Lodging Tax Policy, PED,
2020.06.0l .doc
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 3
Commerce, and Seattle Southside Chamber of Commerce, and others have also received
funding in the past. Any entity, including for -profit organizations, is eligible to receive lodging tax
funds, provided it is engaged in activities eligible to be funded with lodging tax funds.
State Law requires that any proposed use of lodging tax funds be review by a Lodging Tax
Advisory Committee (LTAC). The City's LTAC comprises four lodging businesses; four entities
eligible to receive lodging tax funds; and one City elected official, who serves as the Chair of
LTAC. LTAC makes a recommendation to the City Council on whether an application should
receive funding. The City Council has final authority in approving a request for lodging tax funds;
however, the City Council cannot override a "no" from LTAC. The City Council can choose not
to fund an entity that LTAC recommend be provided funding. The City Council can also change
the amount of the funding, provided it provides the LTAC 30-days' notice of its intent to modify
the amount.
TPA Fee
Statutory Authority
Tourism Promotion Areas (TPA) are authorized under RCW 35.101. There is no corresponding
City TMC for TPAs. Outside King County individual cities, towns, and counties can form their
own TPAs. For most municipalities in King County, a TPA must include at least two
municipalities (this requirement does not apply to the City of Federal Way).
In 2014 the Cities of Tukwila, Des Moines, and SeaTac executed an interlocal agreement ("TPA
ILA)" to form a TPA to cover the combined boundaries of the three cities. Through the TPA ILA
the cities agreed that the City of SeaTac would serve as the legislative authority for the
combined city area. The City of SeaTac is responsible for overseeing the TPA on behalf of the
three cities. Any city can terminate its relationship under the TPA ILA Agreement by providing
one-year notice to the other city partners.
In 2014, after receiving a petition from hoteliers, the City of SeaTac formally adopted a
resolution setting out a TPA fee in the three -city area. The total fee was $2 per night per eligible
hotel stay in a hotel or motel with at least 90 rooms5. The $2 rate was the maximum permitted
under the current State law. State law was recently amended to allow the rate to go up to $5 per
night, provided 60% of the businesses that would pay the increase petition for the increase and
it is approved by the legislative authority.
Allowable Uses6
RCW 35.101.130 states that the Legislative Authority, "...shall have sole discretion as to how
the revenue derived from this charge is to be used to promote tourism promotion that increases
the number of tourists to the area."
`Tourism Promotion' is defined as, "...activities and expenditures designed to increase tourism
and convention businesses, including but not limited to advertising, publicizing, or otherwise
distributing information for the purpose of attracting tourists, and operating tourism designation
marketing organizations."
s The TPA fee is a flat fee, while the lodging tax is a percentage. This allows the TPA to collect higher revenue than
the lodging tax when rates are low. For example, a room at a hotel going for $100 a night would only provide $1 in
lodging tax funds, while the TPA gets the full $2.
6 RCW 35.101 was amended by the last legislative session. These changes go into effect on July 1, 2020. Staff is
discussing the RCW as it will be amended in July.
https://tukwilawa.sharepoint.com/sites/mayorsoffice/cc/Council Agenda Items/Mayor's Office/2020, Lodging Tax Memos/MEMO, Lodging Tax Policy, PED,
2020.06.0l .doc
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 4
Unlike the lodging tax RCW, the TPA RCW provides a definition of tourist'.
A `tourist' means a person who travels for business or pleasure on a trip:
(a) Away from the person's place of residence or business and stays overnight in paid
accommodations;
(b) To a place at least fifty miles away one way by driving distance from the person's place
of residence or business for the day or stays overnight. However, island communities
without land access are exempt from the mileage requirement under this subsection
(5) (b); or
(c) To another country or state outside of the person's place of residence or business.
Status of Funds
Following provisions in the Interlocal Agreement, all TPA funds remitted for the TPA go directly
to SSRTA. In 2019, SSRTA received $3.96 million in TPA funds. Assuming that the TPA funds
are generated proportional to the number of hotel rooms in each of the three TPA cities,
Tukwila's portion of the TPA funds generated for SSRTA was just over $1.13 million, or 29%.
In early 2020, SSRTA budgeted ending 2019 (unaudited) with an ending fund balance of $4.45
million. This includes both TPA funds it received, lodging tax funds received from the three
cities, and misc. revenue.
Historical Use of Funds
As outlined above, 100% of the funds remitted for the TPA go directly to SSRTA. The City of
Tukwila does not receive the funds. SSRTA uses these funds for tourism promotion activities
and administration costs.
Seattle Southside Regional Tourism Authority
SSRTA is the City's primary destination marketing organization$. SSRTA mission is to help
promote the Seattle Southside region (cities of Des Moines, Tukwila, and SeaTac) for tourism.
In 2019, SSRTA had total operating expenditures of $4.297 million (See below).
SSRTA is the successor to Seattle Southside Visitor Service (SSVS), which until 2015 was run
as a division of Tukwila's Economic Development Office. The Cities of Des Moines and SeaTac
were serviced by SSVS via interlocal agreements with the City of Tukwila. At one time the City
of Kent was also served by SSVS but left in 2014.
In 2012 the Cities of Tukwila, SeaTac, and Des Moines began to have conversations about
forming a TPA, with the goal of providing additional funds for tourism promotion activities. These
conversations were the result of requests by area hoteliers for the cities to consider creating a
TPA. As discussed above, the cities entered an interlocal agreement in 2014 for the creation of
a TPA. A TPA fee began to officially be collected in the spring of 2015.
Through the TPA ILA, the cities of Tukwila, SeaTac, and Des Moines also provided a
recommended amount of lodging tax funds each city would provide to SSRTA annually. The
lodging tax contribution is a "recommended amount" and no City is contractually obligated to
provide the amount listed in the TPA ILA. The table below shows the suggested lodging tax
contributions to SSRTA from the three TPA cities.
' This definition goes into effect on July 1, 2020.
https://tukwilawa.sharepoint.com/sites/mayorsoffice/cc/Council Agenda Items/Mayor's Office/2020, Lodging Tax Memos/MEMO, Lodging Tax Policy, PED,
2020.06.0l .doc
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 5
Year
SeaTac9
Tukwila
Des Moines10
2014
$835,000
$712,000
100% of
lodging tax
funds.
2015
$460,000
$405,000
2016
$383,333
$337,500
2017
$306,666
$270,000
2018 and
beyond
$230,000
$202,500
The TPA creation provided addition funds available for tourism promotion activities in the
Seattle Southside region. The table below shows the total expenditures for SSVS and SSRTA
since 2010. In 2016 the total expenditures for tourism promotion by SSRTA increased over
180% from the prior year.
Year
Total Expenditures
(SSVS and SSRTA)
% Change in
SSVS and
SSRTA
Expenditures
from previous
year.
Total Lodging
Revenue in the
Cities of Des
Moines, Tukwila,
and SeaTac.
% Change in
lodging
revenue from
previous year.
2010
$1,321,879
N/A
$190,337,838
N/A
2011
$1,525,988
15.44%
$201,068,568
5.64%
2012
$1,470,058
(3.67%)
$217,520,038
8.18%
2013
$1,428,043
2.86%
$230,190,887
5.83%
2014
$1,462,123
2.39%
$259,819,652
12.87%
2015"
$1,504,207
2.88%
$292,605,392
12.62%
2016
$4,248,883
182.47%
$302,062,920
3.23%
2017
$4,533,770
6.70%
$318,864,960
5.56%
2018
$4,634,628
2.22%
$330,574,999
3.67%
2019
$4,297,657
(7.27%)
Data not yet
available.
N/A
In March, SSRTA began projecting a significant revenue reduction of TPA fees because of the
COVID-19 pandemic (see below).
9 The City of SeaTac has chosen to provide more funds to SSRTA than what was outlined in the TPA ILA.
10 The City of Des Moines no longer provides 100% of its lodging tax funds collected to SSRTA.
" SSRTA did not take over the functions of SSVS until the end January 1, 2016. The expenditures provided for
2015 are Tukwila's expenditures for SSVS.
https://tukwilawa.sharepoint.com/sites/mayorsoffice/cc/Council Agenda Items/Mayor's Office/2020, Lodging Tax Memos/MEMO, Lodging Tax Policy, PED,
2020.06.0l .doc
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 6
Seattle Southside Regional Tourism Authority (RTA) Financial Pro Forma
2020-2022
2019
2019
Z020
2020
20Z1
2022
Approved
Approved
Projection
Projection
Projection
Budget
Year-end ActuaIs
Budget
(Unaudited)
Revenues
1 TPA Special Assessments
5
3.674,825
5 3,963,260
$ 3,900,000 5
1,252,474
S 3,170,608
$ 3,368,771
2 LTC -Tukwila
202,500
202,500
202,SOo
202,500
202,S00
202,500
3 LTC-SeaTac
830,000
830,000
830,000
930,000
83%o00
830,000
4 LTC -Des Moines
111,00c
52,497
55,500
15,000
1o,00o
25,000
5 Interest Revenue
48,500
71,829
65,00o
22,500
6,WO
7,500
6 Misc Other Revenue
2,500
10,422
2,SOo
5,500
5,500
5,500
7 Advertising
75,DOc
40.48D
50,000
7,500
7,SOo
7,500
Total Revenues
$
4,944,325
5 5,170,989
$ 5,105,500 $
2,335,474
5 4,232,108
S 4,446,771
Expenditures
8 Salaries & Benefits
$
1,622,209
$ 1,451,758
$ 1,630,500 $
1,459,652
$ 1,465,000
$ 1,567,550
9 Supplies
31,000
14,197
15,00c
10,000
13,500
14,000
10 Small Equipment
20,000
5,755
20,000
11,000
7,000
7,000
11 Professional Services/Ads/Promotions
2,200,000
2,013,177
2,323,OOC
2,098,250
2,100,000
2,200,000
12. Communications/Postage
81,000
36,o88
41,000
30,000
33,000
36,000
13 Travel
115,Ooc
47,357
80,000
13,000
47,500
60,000
14 Operating Leases
120,000
87 512
120,000
110,636
119,ow
120,00o
15 insurance
12,000
10,611
12,OOo
11,000
12,000
13,000
16 Maintenance
6,00c
3,654
6,000
3,900
3,900
4,000
17 Miscellaneous/Printing
861,000
589,609
751,000
530,000
600,000
675,000
18 Capital -Digital Images
39,D00
11,000
39,000
11,000
15,00o
20,000
Total Operating Expenditures
S,107,209
4,270,718
5,037,500
4,288,338
4,415,900
4,716,550
19 Capital Outlay
100,00C
26,938
68,00E
20,0o0
25,000
23,000
Total Expenditures and Capital OutiaV
5,207,209
4,297,657
5,105,500
4,308,338
4,440,900
4,739,550
20 Excess of Revenues over (under)expenditures
(262,984)
873,333
-
(1,972,964)
(209,792)
(292,779)
Beginning Fund Balance $
2,153,571
$ 3,582,569
5 3,942,503 $
4,455,902
$ 2,483,037
$ 2,274,246
Ending Fund Balance $
1,890,687
5 4,455,902
$ 3,94Z,503 $
2,483,037
$ 2,274,Z46
$ 1,981,467
Contingen cy Rese rve(2 man the i
$
86B,D42
$ 716,419
$ 839,751 $
714,966
$ 736,131
$ 786,249
Economic Downturn/Recession Reserve (12% of SAI
$
404,231
$ 435,959
$ 429,D00 $
137,772
$ 349,767
$ 370,565
Capital Asset Replacement Reserve
$
11D,000
$ 11D076
$ 183,465 $
183,465
$ 183,465
S 183,465
Unassigned Balance
$
508,414
$ 3,193,448
$ 2,490,286 $
1,446,934
$ 1,005,883
5 641.189
DISCUSSION
Staff would like to start having discussions with the City Council and the hospitality community
regarding some policy issues with tourism funding for the City of Tukwila. Staff has identified
several issues, which are discussed below. Staff envisions that additional issues/questions
could come as we move through this process. The goal is to get direction from the City Council
on 2020 expenditure plans and the development of the 2021/2022 City budget.
1. Need for Strategic Focus for Lodging Tax and TPA Funds.
In 2019, the City started to prepare a Six Year Financial Model for lodging tax (See
Attached). While non -binding, the Financial Model is the City's first effort to strategically
examine how lodging tax could be used to advance overall strategic initiatives. Given
the changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic, staff seeks Council's direction on whether
any of the potential projects in the Financial Model are no longer of interest or if other
projects should be added.
https://tukwilawa.sharepoint.com/sites/mayorsoffice/cc/Council Agenda Items/Mayor's Office/2020, Lodging Tax Memos/MEMO, Lodging Tax Policy, PED,
2020.06.0l .doc
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 7
2. Lack of Marketing Efforts for Tukwila in the Greater Seattle Area.
In 2017, the City of Tukwila engaged Bill Baker, a renowned destination brand consultant to
guide the City in the development of a City brand12. Mr. Baker's work also included a
significant discussion and survey on how people view the City within the Seattle region. This
work included telephone surveys, online surveys, and focus groups. There was considerable
discussion on the name the City should use to market itself. Name suggestions included,
Southcenter, Tukwila, and Seattle Southside. Through Mr. Baker's work the City determined
that the "Tukwila" name had strong brand identification within the Seattle area. Mr. Baker's
work completed work including the development of a brand strategy, brand blueprint, and
brand style guide. The City Council formally adopted Mr. Baker's brand recommendations in
2018.
Since 2018 staff has been working on efforts to market Tukwila within the Greater Seattle
area, generally within 50 miles of the City. These efforts have primarily included sponsoring
events, such as the Rave Green Run and Food Truck Rodeo at Westfield Southcenter. As
part of the COVID-19 response, the City quickly launched social media channels to help
promote businesses open and to help highlight resources available to businesses.
The City should consider other opportunities to promote itself, specifically the City should
consider the development of a website focused on visitors and business attraction; limited
ad buys; and ongoing public relations outreach.
3. Tourism Promotion versus Destination DeveloDment
Historically the City has provided lodging tax funds for initiatives and activities that are
focused more on tourism promotion and have not provided lodging tax funds for destination
development. Examples of tourism promotion activities include funding for marketing and
sales. Destination development includes capital projects and developing/sponsoring
festivals and events to be held in the City. In 2019, the City began to take steps to begin to
develop the destination by awarding funds complete a master plan for Tukwila Pond and to
install art along Baker Blvd. Other possible examples of destination development including
the creation of a Riverwalk along the Green River and installation of wayfinding signage.
The City also launched the Tukwila International Food Truck Rally last year in partnership
with Westfield Southcenter.
Given the differences between the allowable uses between lodging tax funds and TPA
funds, the City may want to consider creating distinction between how the funds can be
used with regards to tourism promotion and destination development. Tourism promotional
activities, such as what SSRTA is providing, generally are for tourism promotion and
marketing activities. Given that well over $3.5 million of funds are being provided for tourism
promotion to SSRTA via the TPA funds, the City should consider how lodging tax funds can
be used for destination development. As a reminder, lodging tax funds can be used for
capital projects and the City can also bond against the future lodging tax funds.
12 This "brand" is for tourism and economic development use only and is not a City brand.
https://tukwilawa.sharepoint.com/sites/mayorsoffice/cc/Council Agenda Items/Mayor's Office/2020, Lodging Tax Memos/MEMO, Lodging Tax Policy, PED,
2020.06.01.doc
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 8
4. Lack of other organizations doing tourism promotion and tourism development activities,
such as downtown associations and neighborhood groups.
One of the biggest tourism limitations in the City of Tukwila is the lack of our organizations
that are directly or indirectly involved in tourism promotion and destination development in
the region. Take for example Pioneer Square, which has Visit Seattle, the Downtown
Association, Seattle Chamber, and the Pioneer Square Association all engaged in some
tourists related activities. Having a variety of organizations working on tourism development
issues would strengthen the City's overall tourism appeal. For example, the Pioneer Square
Association works on developing art in the Pioneer Square District (destination
development), which Visit Seattle uses as content for its tourism promotion activities.
When other organizations do destination development and tourism promotion they directly
and indirectly market the City. For example, Destination Des Moines promotes Des Moines
via videos and events as does Discover Burien. The City of Tukwila lacks these types of
organizations; thus the City has tried to fill the void.
5. Leveraging Lodging Tax Funds to Obtain Grants.
Another option the City should consider is using lodging tax funds as match to obtain federal
and state grants for infrastructure projects that support tourism.
6. The Need for More Varied Use of Lodging Tax Funds.
Many cities award a large number of smaller lodging tax grant applications for activities
occurring in their cities. For example, the City of Renton, which historically collects less
lodging tax funds than Tukwila, regularly has upwards of 20 applications per year for lodging
tax funds. These applications are often for small amounts to support small events, festivals,
and activities. Smaller activities help to develop a destination and help to create a distinct
and unique visitor experience. Economic Development staff has been working to attract
other groups to the City and to help existing groups explore securing lodging tax funds for
eligible activities.
7. Using Lodging Tax Funds for Business Attraction
The City's Economic Division is funded primarily from the City's general funds. Starting in
2019, some labor costs in Economic Development were funded by lodging tax funds. Some
cities use lodging tax funds to help marketing the City for business attraction. Given that
many guests in Tukwila hotels are business travelers there is a strong argument that
increased economic activity from business attraction woudl bring more overnight guests
(business travelers) to the City. Note, staff has not engaged legal on the question of whether
lodging tax funds could be used for business attraction.
Additionally, the City could also provide funds to the Chamber of Commerce in order to help
it with its mission of supporting area businesses and attracting businesses to the City.
8. Lack of Metrics to Track Success
The City lacks metrics to follow to track success of the lodging tax program and TPA.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
https://tukwilawa.sharepoint.com/sites/mayorsoffice/cc/Council Agenda Items/Mayor's Office/2020, Lodging Tax Memos/MEMO, Lodging Tax Policy, PED,
2020.06.0l .doc
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
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None.
RECOMMENDATION
This is for discussion only. Staff would like to have ongoing discussions with the Committee and
create recommendations to take the full Council for policies on the use of lodging tax and TPA
funds.
ATTACHMENTS
• Memo dated September 23, 2016, "Permitted Uses of Lodging Tax Funds."
• Lodging Tax Six Year Financial Model.
https://tukwilawa.sharepoint.com/sites/mayorsoffice/cc/Council Agenda Items/Mayor's Office/2020, Lodging Tax Memos/MEMO, Lodging Tax Policy, PED,
2020.06.0l .doc
9
10
City of Tukwila
Allan Ekberg, Mayor
INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
TO: Finance and Safety Committee
FROM: Brandon J. Miles, Business Relations Manager
CC: Mayor Ekberg
DATE: September 23, 2016
SUBJECT: Permitted Uses of Lodging Tax Funds.
ISSUE
The City charges a 1 % special excise tax on the sale of or charge made for overnight lodging
stays. State law limits how these funds can be used. This memo outlines the limits on the use of
lodging tax and discusses permitted and prohibited use of the funds'.
BACKGROUND
Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 67.28.1815 limits the use of lodging tax funds as follows:
[A]II revenue from taxes imposed under this chapter shall be credited to a special fund in
the treasury of the municipality imposing such tax and used solely for the purpose of
paying all or any part of the cost of tourism2 promotion 3, acquisition of tourism -related
facilities, or operation of tourism -related facilities.
RCW 67.28.1816 goes into further detail about permitted expenditures of lodging tax funds,
specifying:
Lodging tax revenues under this chapter may be used, directly by any municipality or
indirectly through a convention and visitors bureau or destination marketing organization
for. -
(a) Tourism marketing;
' RCW 67.28 places strict limits on the type of entities eligible to receive lodging tax funds. Additionally,
approving expenditures of lodging tax funds is a two-step process, requiring review by the City's Lodging
Tax Advisory Committee and City Council. State Law gives considerable authority to the City's Lodging
Tax Advisory Committee in reviewing and approving funding requests. For more information on entities
eligible to receive funding and the process for awarding funds, see the memo dated September 22, 2016,
entitled, "Lodging Tax Approval Process."
2 RCW 67.28.080 defines "Tourism" as "economic activity resulting from tourists, which may include sales
of overnight lodging, meals, tours, gifts, or souvenirs."
3 RCW 67.28.080 (6) defines "Tourism promotion" as "...activities, operations, and expenditures designed
to increase tourism, including but not limited to advertising, publicizing, or otherwise distributing
information for the purpose of attracting and welcoming tourists; developing strategies to expand tourism;
operating tourism promotion agencies; and funding the marketing of or the operation of special events
and festivals designed to attract tourists."
4 RCW 67.28.080 (1) provides the following definition of "Acquisition" ..."includes, but is not limited to,
siting, acquisition, design, construction, refurbishing, expansion, repair, and improvement, including
paying or securing the payment of all or any portion of general obligation bonds, leases, revenue bonds,
or other obligations issued or incurred for such purpose or purposes under this chapter."
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 2
(b) The marketing and operations of special events and festivals designed to attract
tourists;
(c) Supporting the operations and capital expenditures of tourism -related facilities5
owned or operated by a municipality or a public facilities district created under
chapters 35.57 and 36.100 RCW; or
(d) Supporting the operations of tourism -related facilities owned or operated by nonprofit
organizations described under 26 U. S. C. Sec. 501(c)(3) and 26 U. S. C. Sec.
501(c)(6) of the internal revenue code of 1986, as amended.
DISCUSSION
Several Councilmembers have inquired about permissible uses of lodging tax funds. Based
upon the limitations outlined above, staff would like to provide some guidance on the future use
of lodging tax funds.
A simple question that can be asked to help determine if lodging tax funds can be used is
"Is the activity, operation or expenditure designed to increase tourism or welcome tourists to the
City?"
If the answer is yes, then lodging tax might be able to be used after further analysis of the
specific funding request.
Tourism could include people who travel and stay overnight in the City (overnight visitors) or
those who travel to the Tukwila for the day (day visitors). Economic activity from Tukwila
residents would not be considered tourism.
The following lists examples of activities, operations and expenditures that would likely be
eligible for lodging tax funding. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list.
• Marketing and advertising intended to bring overnight visitors to the City.
• Marketing and advertising intended to bring day visitors to the City.
• Installation of new "way finding" signs for tourists and installation of City identification
signs.
• Sponsoring, operating, and marketing of special events or festivals, either by the City or
third parties, if designed to bring tourists to the City.
• Installation of banners on street poles or across city streets if either welcoming tourists to
the City or promoting upcoming events.
• Capital improvements, such as park improvements or trail improvements, designed to be
used primarily by tourists.
• Maintenance of parks primarily used by tourists, such as Fort Dent Park or the Green
River trail.
5 RCW 67.28.080 (7) defines "Tourism -related facility" as, "...real or tangible personal property with a
usable life of three or more years, or constructed with volunteer labor that is: (a)(i) Owned by a public
entity; (ii) owned by a nonprofit organization described under section 501(c)(3) of the federal internal
revenue code of 1986, as amended; or (iii) owned by a nonprofit organization described under section
501(c)(6) of the federal internal revenue code of 1986, as amended, a business organization, destination
marketing organization, main street organization, lodging association, or chamber of commerce and (b)
used to support tourism, performing arts, or to accommodate tourist activities."
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 3
• Supporting marketing and operations of government entities (City of Tukwila and SSRTA)
or nonprofit organizations, when activities performed are designed to attract tourists to
the City or welcome tourists to the City.
The following lists examples of activities, operations and expenditures that would likely NOT be
eligible for lodging tax funding. This list is not intended to be exhaustive.
• Funding basic general governmental operations of the City6
• Marketing and advertising directed at residents.
• Way finding signs in residential areas intended for residents.
• Sponsoring of special events or festivals intended for residents.
• Capital improvements, such as park improvements, intended for residents (such as at
parks used primarily by residents).
• Maintenance of parks primarily used by residents, such as Hazelnut Park.
• Capital expenditures for tourism related facilities owned or operated by a non-profit.
Reportinq Requirements
RCW 67.28.1816 requires that entities receiving lodging tax fund report metrics back to the
municipality. Per State Law, the following is required to be submitted to the City in the project
close out for a specific funding request:
1. Actual number of people traveling for business or pleasure on a trip.
2. Number of people traveling for business and pleasure and staying in paid
accommodations in the City.
3. Visitors who traveled more than 50 miles or more from their place of residence of
businesses for the day or staying overnight.
4. Visitors who traveled from another county or state.
It is important to note that the City's Lodging Tax Advisory Committee is granted significant
authority by RCW 67.28.1816 when reviewing lodging tax requests. The City Council cannot
reverse a decision of the Committee if the Committee chooses not to approve a specific funding
application. Traditionally, the Committee has considered the metrics outlined above very
strongly when considering funding requests.
RECOMMENDATION
Information and discussion only. Forward to the October 10, 2016 Committee of the Whole
meeting for discussion by the full Council.
ATTACHMENTS
• None.
6 The City is permitted to charge special funds, like the lodging fund, for costs incurred by the general
fund to support the special funds.
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DRAFT, DISCUSSION ONLY
Lodging Tax Six Year Financial Plan
Approved Applications Actuals
Year 2019 1 2019
Revenue
Orginal Estimated Amount
Forecasted
2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Totals
$ 800,000 $ 840,000 $ 882,000 $ 926,100 $ 972,405
Lodging Tax Collection (Revised, 5/7/20)
775000
$ 819,095
$ 400,000
$ 450,000
$ 600,000
$ 700,000
$ 800,000
$3,769,095
Expenses
Marketing, Sales, Major Sponsorships
Contracted DMO Services $
202,500
$ 202,500
$ 202,500
$ 202,500
$ 202,500
$ 202,500
$ 202,500
$1,215,000
Major Sponsorships $
144,000
$ 150,000
$ 150,000
$ 150,000
$ 150,000
$ 150,000
$ 150,000
$ 900,000
Small Event Development and Support $
12,500
$ 10,000
$ 15,000
$ 15,000
$ 15,000
$ 15,000
$ 15,000
$ 85,000
Digital Development and Website
$ -
$ 65,000
$ 50,000
$ 50,000
$ 50,000
$ 50,000
$ 265,000
Destination Development
Wayfinding Plan Development and Installation $
-
$ -
$ 100,000
$ 150,000
$ 100,000
$ 100,000
$ 100,000
$ 550,000
Southcenter Art Investements $
40,000
$ 600
$ 39,400
$ 75,000
$ 75,000
$ 75,000
$ 75,000
$ 340,000
Tukwila Pond $
100,000
$ -
$ 125,000
$ 200,000
$ 200,000
$ 200,000
$ 200,000
$ 925,000
World Cup Planning and Activiation $
-
$ -
$ -
$ 40,000
$ 40,000
$ 50,000
$ 50,000
$ 180,000
Adminstration/Operations
Salary $
55,457
$ 58,040
$ 56,586
$ 58,284
$ 60,032
$ 61,833
$ 63,688
$ 358,463
Benefits $
17,847
$ 18,124
$ 18,411
$ 18,963
$ 19,532
$ 20,118
$ 20,722
$ 115,870
City Overhead Charge $
18,741
$ 18,741
$ 19,416
$ 19,998
$ 20,598
$ 21,216
$ 21,853
$ 121,823
Adminstration Expenses $
35,000
$ 21,385
$ 30,000
$ 30,000
$ 30,000
$ 30,000
$ 30,000
$ 171,385
Salary Savings
$ (2,716)
Total Expenditures: $
626,045
$ 479,390
$ 818,597
$ 1,009,745
$ 962,663
$ 975,668
$ 978,763
$5,227,541
Starting Year Balance:
$1,617,625
$ 1,957,330
$ 1,538,733
$ 978,988
$ 616,325
$ 340,657
Ending Fund Balance:
$1,957,330
$ 1,538,733
$ 978,988
$ 616,325
$ 340,657
$ 161,895
Notes
Salay for Bus Manager is split 50/50 between general fund and
lodging tax. Salary savings reflects credit to lodging tax for 14
furlough days planned.
Revenue Increase(2021-2024) 0.05
Salary is assumed to rise 3% per year. 0.03
Benefits are assuemd to rise 3% per year. 0.03
Indirect Cost Allocation is assumed to increase 3% per year. 0.03
This document does not bind the City to provide funds nor does it authorize any funding. All use of lodging tax funds must be approved by LTAC and the City Council through an application process.
Overhead charge is charged to all special accounts and recoups the cost of the general fund to support the lodging tax fund. This include facilities, IT services, legal, and accounting.
Cells in yellow were updated following April, 2019 meeting.
Updated:
5/7/2020
BJ M
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City of Tukwila
Allan Ekberg, Mayor
INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
TO:
Community Development and Neighborhoods
FROM:
Brandon Miles, Business Relations Manager
CC:
Mayor Ekberg
DATE:
May 26, 2020
SUBJECT:
City Branding Efforts and Issues
ISSUE
Discussion on marketing and branding of the City, including a discussion on issues the City is
having with branding "Tukwila."
BACKGROUN
In December of 2017, the City Council adopted a motion endorsing the Tukwila Brand Blueprint,
Brand Checklist, and Brand Style Guide, prepared by Total Destination Marketing', for usage in
the City efforts to promote the City to tourists. As part of the brand development process, Total
Destination Marketing conducted online and phone surveys throughout the Puget Sound region,
focus groups, and quantitative research on what name should be used to promote the City. The
top names included Tukwila, Southcenter, and Seattle Southside.
Tukwila emerged as the strongest of the three candidates within the greater Seattle region.
Most survey respondents had strong, positive reactions of the Tukwila name compared to
Southcenter and Seattle Southside. Additionally, many well-known tourist amenities, such as
Starfire Sports, and Westfield Southcenter, were identified as being in Tukwila by Puget Sound
survey respondents.
Total Destination Marketing recommended, and the City Council supported, the use of the
Tukwila name for the City marketing and tourism promotion activities. As part of the branding
efforts, the City adopted a new wordmark and style guide to be used for certain City activities.
The wordmark does not replace the City seal. In July of 2019 staff outlined to Community
Development and Neighborhoods (CDN) how the tourism word mark would be used versus the
City Seal (copy of the July 15, 2019 CDN memo is attached).
' Copies of all three documents can be found on Laserfiche. Staff can also provide hard copies if needed. 17
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 2
Tukwila Tourism Wordmark (the "Wordmark")2
�Ti��wila
The Tukwila wordmark does not replace the City seal, which is used for general city business.
Tukwila City Seal (the "Seal")
r�
LA
•
2 The City also partners with the cities of Des Moines and SeaTac under the "Seattle Southside" brand. The Tukwila
mark is not intended to replace the Seattle Southside brand.
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 3
Use of the City Seal, Department Marks, and the Tukwila Wordmark
Usage
City Seal
Department
Tukwila Wordmark
Marks (Fire,
PD, and
'
Parks)
�$TKWIA
Official City Business (government business,
✓
✓
utility bills, etc.).
Tukwilawa.gov.
✓
✓
Tukwila Government social media accounts.
✓
✓
Visitor and To Do Website (not yet
✓
developed).
Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram,
✓
and Linkedln) operated by Economic
Development promoting the City to visitors
and for business investment.
Events and activities using lodging tax funds.
✓
Business Recruitment and Promoting City to
✓
and for Businesses
Economic Development Operations
✓
✓
Economic Development Partnerships
✓
(Soundside and Seattle Southside Chamber).
Would include presentations made at these
organizations, promotional materials, etc.
Partnerships related to tourism (Seattle
✓
Southside Regional Tourism Authority, Visit
Seattle, Seattle Sports Commission, etc.)
Signage
Usage
City Seal
Department Marks
City Wordmark
(Fire, PD, and Parks)
r14k VVi1a
Signage at City facilities
✓
✓
(City Hall, Fire Stations,
TCC, etc.)
Gateway Signage Into the
Will be examined as part of tourist signage program.
City
Directional Signage in
Will be examined as part of tourist signage program.
Southcenter District,
around Starfire Sports,
Museum of Flight, and
Tukwila South
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19
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 4
Street Pole Banners in
Will be examined as part of tourist signage program.
Southcenter District,
along East Marginal Way
(near Museum of Flight)
and around Starfire
Sports.
Over roadway banners in
Will be examined as part of tourist signage program.
Southcenter District
Regulatory Signage
✓
(subject to other
limitations, such as
Manual for Uniform
Traffic Control, etc.)
Interpretative Signage in
✓
✓
Southcenter District
Signage on podium for
✓
✓
✓
News Conferences
(would depend on the
City speakers and issue)
Seattle Southside Name
In partnership with the Cities of Des Moines and SeaTac, the City of Tukwila markets itself
under the "Seattle Southside" name to potential overnight guests throughout the United States.
This marketing is done by Seattle Southside Regional Tourism Authority (SSRTA) under
contracts with the three cities. Under the "Seattle Southside" name the three cities are
communities under the "Seattle Southside" brand. Given that the "Tukwila" name is not well
known outside the Puget Sound area, the Seattle Southside name allows the City to market
itself better to tourists from outside the region. Many smaller communities throughout the nation
associate themselves with the larger metropolitan in their area. For example, Pasadena,
California identifies itself as part of the greater Los Angeles area.
DISCUSSION
Branding the City and promoting the City can have substantial positive benefits to the City and
our community members in the following ways.
1. Tourism. Places with positive reputations tend to attract more visitors than places viewed
negativity.
2. Community Pride. Community members (residents, business owners, people who work
in the City) can get a sense of pride in seeing Tukwila portrayed in positive manner.
3. Business Attraction. Positive branding can help the City attract businesses to locate to
the City. If people view a place positively, they will likely want to invest in the City.
Likewise, if people view a place negatively, the likely avoid the City.
There are several issues that staff would like input from the City Council on with regards to
branding.
Tukwila Address
Tukwila shares postal zip codes with adjacent cities, most notably Seattle. Many businesses
use "Seattle" in their address field versus "Tukwila." The U.S. Postal Service recommends
"Seattle" for addressing but also accepts "Tukwila" and mail delivery works the same for either
name. However, when a business uses the "Seattle" name versus the "Tukwila" name the City
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 5
loses indirect name association and people, who are not familiar with the area, may identify
themselves as being in Seattle. For example, when someone has a positive experience at the
Museum of Flight, they may think they are in Seattle and not Tukwila.
The biggest issue is with earned media. Seattle reporters regularly report on positive news
stories in Tukwila as being in Seattle. This is common for events and activities taking place at
the Museum of Flight. A positive example of the Tukwila name being used is with the Seattle
Sounders and Seattle Seawolves. Both professional sports team regularly issue news releases
listing "Tukwila" in the dateline.
Possible Solution: Launch a campaign or program to encourage businesses to identify
themselves as being in Tukwila versus Seattle.
Tukwila Versus Southcenter Name
Many businesses identify their Tukwila locations as being in "Southcenter." This can create
significant confusion. As part of the research done by Total Destination Marketing, some people
associated Southcenter only with the mall, while others associated Southcenter as the business
district in and around the mall. Westfield Southcenter has also noted that people will come into
the mall looking for a store that has been advertised as being in "Southcenter," but which is
located down the street. Several freeway signs also identify Tukwila exits from 1-5 as being
"Southcenter".
Southcenter is a business district that has a strong reputation and brand awareness. For
example, many businesses that have locations throughout Seattle will identify specific locations
as being in well-known Seattle neighborhoods, such as Queen Anne, Capitol Hill, or West
Seattle. Yet, using the Southcenter name over the Tukwila name results in Tukwila losing an
opportunity to create positive brand awareness.
Possible Solution: Launch a campaign or program to encourage businesses to identify
themselves in marketing materials as being in Tukwila and not Southcenter. When the City uses
the term "Southcenter" it should always be used in reference to the Southcenter District. The
City should also explore having "Southcenter" signs along the freeway updated to reflect
"Tukwila."
Lodging Tax Funding and the Tukwila Name
The City regularly awards funding to organizations within the City for tourism promotion
activities. Several of these organizations do not actually identify themselves as being within the
City of Tukwila, despite being physically located in the City. The most notable example is the
Museum of Flight. The City loses out on branding opportunities when organizations do not
actually identify themselves as being in Tukwila.
Possible Solution: Any organization that receives lodging tax funds must use Tukwila as the city
name in their mailing address. In addition, any marketing done within the greater Seattle area
(within 50 miles of the City) must identify the location as being in Tukwila if a location is
mentioned. Outside of the 50 miles Seattle can be used for marketing.
Use of the Seattle Southside Name in the Puget Sound
SSRTA has begun to do marketing within in the greater Seattle area and identify well known
Tukwila businesses as being in "Seattle Southside." While this marketing is important outside of
the greater Seattle area, staff believes using the "Seattle Southside" name in the Puget Sound
area is counterproductive to the City's branding efforts. Notable examples of this marketing
include mailers that went out to residents and freeway signage (See attached).
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
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Possible Solution: When the City set up and contracted with SSRTA for tourism services it did
not envision that SSRTA would do marketing in the greater Seattle area. While there may be
some overlap, any marketing done in the greater Seattle area should be focused on the
"Tukwila" name. SSRTA's two-year contract expires at the end of the year and staff would like to
include provisions regarding how SSRTA markets within the greater Seattle area.
Third Party Marketing Contracts
SSRTA is the City's primary destination marketing organization (DMO) serving the City. The
goal of SSRTA is to help bring overnight guests to the cities of Tukwila, SeaTac, and Des
Moines. Tukwila is viewed as one of the three communities that make up the Seattle Southside
region. SSRTA markets Tukwila as a retail and entertainment community. Unfortunately, this is
outdated and is not consistent with the branding adopted by the City. Tukwila internal brand
focus is "accessible fun." The City has shifted from wanting to be known as a shopping
community to wanting to be known for a place to have affordable fun. Additionally, the City also
wants to highlight its multi-culturalism.
For any organization doing marketing services to promote the City, it seems prudent for the City
to have oversight in how the City is portrayed to ensure that the marketing is consistent with the
City's overall branding goals.
Possible Solution: The City should include contract language for any organization doing
marketing for the City that ensures the brand of the City is portrayed correctly.
RECOMMENDATION
Discussion only.
ATTACHMENTS
• July 15, 2019 memo to CDN.
• SSRTA Mailers.
22 https://tukwilawa.sharepoint.com/sites/mayorsoffice/cc/Council Agenda Items/Mayor's Office/2020, Lodging Tax Memos/Memo, Branding, PED, 2020.06.0l.docx
City of Tukwila
Allan Ekberg, Mayor
INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
TO: Community Development and Neighborhoods
FROM: Brandon Miles, Business Relations Manager
CC: Mayor Ekberg
DATE: July 15, 2019
SUBJECT: Use of Tukwila's Marks, Logos and City Seal
ISSUE
Staff would like Council input on the use of certain marks, logos and the City seal related to City
business.
BACKGROUND
In December of 2017, the City Council adopted a motion endorsing the Tukwila Brand Blueprint,
Brand Checklist, and Brand Style Guide, prepared by Total Destination Marketing', for usage in
the City efforts to promote the City to both day and night tourists. This concluded the City's
extensive brand development efforts focused on tourists. This brand development effort was
not a citywide branding effort or intended to be used for general purpose City governmental
operations.
Tukwila Tourism Wordmark (the "Wordmark")Z
The Tukwila wordmark does not replace the City seal, which is used for general city business.
Copies of all three documents can be found in the online records center. Staff can also provide hard copies if
needed.
'- The City also partners with the Cities of Des Moines and SeaTac under the "Seattle Southside" brand. The Tukwila
mark is not intended to replace the Seattle Southside brand.
23
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 2
Tukwila City Seal (the "Seal")
Since adoption in 2017, the City has used the Tukwila wordmark as part of campaigns to
promote the City to tourists, with our tourist partners, and for lodging tax business. Staff has
identified some additional possible uses of the Tukwila wordmark where staff would like input
from the City Council. For example, one of the recommendations in the adopted "Tukwila Brand
Checklist" was to install new gateway and wayfinding signage in tourist areas (Southcenter
District, near Starfire Sports, and near the Museum of Flight) of the City. Additionally, Economic
Development would like to use the wordmark in its activities to promote the City to prospective
businesses and for Economic Development's daily operations.
DISCUSSION
Many businesses and entities use more than one mark or logo to promote themselves. Having
multiple marks or logos can be beneficial when communicating to different audiences. The
table below briefly outlines how staff is proposing that the Tukwila wordmark be used versus the
City Seal. Additionally, staff is also showing how individual department marks would be used.
Using the Tukwila wordmark over the City seal in limited circumstances provides the following
benefits:
1. Readability. For digital and print ads, the wordmark is easier to read from a distance.
The word "Tukwila" can easily be seen. If all someone saw is the wordmark, they know
immediately that it is referencing "Tukwila." However, if someone just sees the seal, they
would have to look closer to see the word "Tukwila."
2. Usability. The wordmark is easier to use, especially in a digital format. In fact, it was
designed specifically for digital uses. The wordmark can be manipulated to different
sizes without losing readability. Once the City seal is reduced in size the readability can
be lost.
3. Voices. The wordmark and City seal can each have a distinct "voice." This is a major
advantage of using multiple seals or marks. The wordmark can be used for advertising,
while the seal is reserved for general governmental business.
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 3
Desiqn. The wordmark is designed to be incorporated into the design of an ad or promotion and
it works well when used in this manner.
Possible Usages of the City Seal and Tukwila Wordmark
Usage
City Seal
Department
Tukwila Wordmark
Marks (Fire,
PD, and
Parks)
-f`�Tinkwik
General City Business (government business,
✓
✓
utility bills, etc.).
Tukwilawa.gov.
✓
✓
Future Business Promotion website
✓
Visitor and Things To Do Website (not yet
✓
developed).
Social media, operated by Communications,
✓
✓
Police, and Fire.
Social media, operated by Economic
✓
Development promoting the City to tourists
and business investment and recruitment.
Vehicles
✓
✓
✓ 3
E-Signatures on emails
✓
✓
✓
Events and activities using lodging tax funds.
✓
Business Recruitment and Promoting City to
✓
and for Businesses
Economic Development Operations
✓
✓
Business Cards, Envelopes, and Stationary
✓
✓
✓
Economic Development Partnerships
✓
(Soundside and Seattle Southside Chamber).
Would include presentations made at these
organizations, promotional materials, etc.
Partnerships related to tourism (Seattle
✓
Southside Regional Tourism Authority, Visit
Seattle, Seattle Sports Commission, etc.)
Signage
Usage
City Seal
Department Marks
City Wordmark
(Fire, PD, and Parks)
M.N
>�
�)�Tvtkwila
3 Using lodging tax funds, one existing vehicle may be wrapped as advertisement. This vehicle could be
used for tourism related activities and events sponsored by lodging tax.
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 4
Signage at City facilities
✓
✓
(City Hall, Fire Stations,
TCC, etc.)
Gateway Signage Into the
Will be examined as part of tourist signage program.
City
Directional Signage in
Will be examined as part of tourist signage program.
Southcenter District,
around Starfire Sports,
Museum of Flight, and
Tukwila South.
Street Pole Banners in
Will be examined as part of tourist signage program.
Southcenter District,
along East Marginal Way
(near Museum of Flight)
and around Starfire
Sports.
Over roadway banners in
Will be examined as part of tourist signage program.
Southcenter District,
near Museum of Flight,
and Starfire Sports.
Regulatory Signage
✓
(subject to other
limitations, such as
Manual for Uniform
Traffic Control, etc.)
Interpretative Signage in
✓
✓
Southcenter District
Signage on podium for
✓
✓
✓
News Conferences
(would depend on the
City speakers and issue)
Economic Development Usage
For the reasons outlined above, staff is proposing that the wordmark be used for most economic
development functions. Economic Development does a considerable amount of outreach and
promotion of the City to current and possible future businesses.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff is seeking Committee discussion and input, and will present this information to the full
Council if requested.
ATTACHMENTS
None.
C:IUserslBrandon-mWppDatalLocallMicrosoftlWindowsVNetCachelContent.OutlooklLWDZNIVO1Wordmark and Seal Memo (002).docx
26
Did you know that you live in a tourist destination? The combined cities of
Des Moines, SeaTac, and Tukwila make up the region we call Seattle Southside.
The Seattle Southside Regional Tourism Authority (RTA) is your local destination marketing
organization. We are responsible for promoting the community as an attractive travel destination
and enhancing its public image as a dynamic place to live and work. Through the impact of
travel, the RTA strengthens the economic position and provides opportunities for people in our
community. Seattle Southside RTA is funded by a self -assessed hotel fund and supported by
lodging taxes from SeaTac, Tukwila and Des Moines.
To learn more visit SeattleSouthside.com/About
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ighline SeaTac Botanical Garden:
ijoy a peaceful walk through the Highline SeaTac Botanical
arden. This is one of those FREE attractions that people always
II in love with ... once they know it exists. The paradise garden
full of life and vibrant colors of dazzling flowers. Stroll down
e hill to the Seike Japanese Garden for a moment of Zen and
picture or two for Instagram. Once again ... the experience is
tally FREE!
(aterland Arcade
>cated just off the Des Moines Marina, the Waterland Arcade
fortlessly combines a variety of classic pinball/arcade games
r all ages with a craft beer bar for adults. The goal of the
aterland Arcade is to be a fun, safe, positive, family -friendly
iot for nostalgic entertainment.
IaST Center Discovery Days
ie Marine Science and Technology Center on Redondo Beach
home to over 250 aquatic species native to Puget Sound.
eery Saturday, MaST Center opens to the public free of charge,
ving families the opportunity to walk under their 38-foot Gray
'hale skeleton, learn about the sea creatures and touch a few in
ie of their two huge touch tanks.
tar Coffee
'hy does an Ethiopian restaurant have the name "Star Coffee?"
y one of their espressos made from imported Ethiopian coffee
)ans and you'll have a pretty good idea. It's some powerful
nd delicious) stuff! Combine the lattes, mochas, and drip
)flees with their authentic Ethiopian dishes and you've got a
inning combination.
razie Ristorante
tting in a corner along Southcenter Parkway, right next to the
en's Wearhouse, you've probably driven by this Italian eatery
any t28s and didn't even realize it. Since 1991, the owners
have been taking their entire staff to different cities in Italy to
experience the food, flavors and vibe of country, then take what
they learn back to Grazie for all of us to enjoy!
Copperleaf Restaurant at Cedarbrook Lodge
Copperleaf Restaurant and Bar, Cedarbrook's award -winning
restaurant, serves lunch and dinner. Offering both indoor
and outdoor fireside dining, guests can enjoy a wide variety
of local liquors, wines and brews along with authentic and
unique culinary masterpieces inspired by quintessentially
Northwest ingredients.
Additional Bidden Gems to Explore:
85 Degree Bakery: Taiwanese cafe and bakery
featuring sweet and savory breads and famous hot
and cold coffee concoctions.
• North SeaTac Park: Local park featuring walking
trails, a BMX track, RC racetrack and disc golf course.
• Boiling Point: Purveyor of delicious Taiwanese soup
and hot pot cuisine!
• The BBQ Schacht: A modest, hole -in -the -wall
restaurant with incredible, award -winning BBQ.
• The Pancake Chef: A breakfast institution for over
60 years.
• Seattle Southside Visitor Center: The epicenter of
fun ideas and things to do for travelers and locals alike,
For more reasons to visit and hidden gems to find in
Seattle Southside, visit SeattleSouthside.com,
Have you ever wondered why the RTA refers to the area comprised of SeaTac, Tukwila, and Des Moines as
"Seattle Southside?" It's a question we commonly get from visitors, meeting planners, residents, and our friends
at KIRO radio. It all started in 2002 after the successful "Think Tukwila" branding campaign by the City of Tukwila.
The City of SeaTac created an agreement with Tukwila to jointly market the two cities to leisure and business
travelers. After hiring independent research firms to conduct focus groups in the search for a name best suited
to identify this new Tukwila/SeaTac partnership, the name "Seattle Southside" was selected as the best option to
appeal to travelers.
The name Seattle Southside was chosen to geographically align the destination with Seattle so potential
visitors who may be unfamiliar with the individual cities would be able to identify the region and its proximity
to downtown Seattle, In 2006, the City of Des Moines joined SeaTac and Tukwila under the name of Seattle
Southside Visitor Services, In 2014, Seattle Southside hoteliers petitioned the cities to create a self -assessed
tourism promotion area fund to increase funding for tourism marketing and promotion; thus, the Seattle
Southside Regional Tourism Authority you know today was established in 2015.
To learn more visit SeattleSouthsidexom/About
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iow to Support Local Businesses
Ve lean on the hospitality industry for the most important moments of our lives. Now,
:'s their turn to lean on us. If there was ever a time to show support for your neighbors
nd local businesses, it is now. Here are some tips to support your favorite local spots
✓hile practicing social distancing.
For a list of Seattle Southside restaurants offering take out and businesses
selllilg gift cards, visit SeaitleSouthside.com.
City of Tukwila
Allan Ekberg, Mayor
INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
TO: Planning and Economic Development Committee
FROM: Derek Speck, Economic Development Administrator
CC: Mayor Ekberg
DATE: May 27, 2020
SUBJECT: Business Recovery Update: Reopening Phases
ISSUE
This item is intended as an overview of Washington State's phases of business reopening.
BACKGROUND
On February 29th, 2020 Governor Inslee proclaimed a state of emergency in Washington State
due to the COVID-19 outbreak. On March 16, 2020 Governor Inslee announced a statewide
closure of all restaurants, bars, entertainment and recreational facilities, and a limit on large
gatherings, due to the rapid increase in COVID-19 cases. On March 23rd, the Governor issued
the Stay Home Stay Healthy order which required all non -essential business functions to close
from March 25th through May 4th. On May 4th he extended that order through May 31 st
On April 21st the Governor announced the State's recovery plan "Safe Start" and explained that
the loosening of restrictions will look more "like the turn of a dial than the flip of a switch."
Businesses and activities will be allowed to reopen in four phases. On May 5th all counties
started in Phase 1. The movement to future phases and reopening of businesses will be
dependent on the decrease of COVID-19 infections and deaths which will be dependent on
sufficient testing, contact identification, personal protective equipment for those who need it, and
adequate capacity in our health care system. As of May 25th, twenty-one of Washington State's
counties have moved into Phase 2.
To apply for a variance, counties must have an average of less than 10 new cases per 100,000
residents over a 14-day period. The application process requires support from the local health
officer, the local board of health, local hospitals, and the county commission/council.
Each county must demonstrate they have adequate local hospital bed capacity as well as
adequate PPE supplies to keep health care workers safe. The application must include plans
for:
• Making testing available and accessible to everyone in the county with symptoms.
• Staffing case investigations and contact tracing.
• Housing people in isolation or quarantine who can't or don't want to do so at home.
• Providing case management services to those in isolation and quarantine.
• Responding rapidly to outbreaks in congregate settings.
31
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 2
The variance requests are reviewed by the secretary of health, who can approve the plans as
submitted, approve with modifications or deny the application. If circumstances change within
the jurisdiction, the variance can be revoked.
When a county moves into Phase 2, businesses that reopen must follow State Guidance on
safety procedures for their industry. A list of the Guidance documents is attached.
Statewide, essential businesses continue to be open. Non -essential businesses that may re-
open during Phase 1 include: landscaping and lawn care, vehicle sales, pet -walking, car
washes, and curb -side retail.
In Tukwila, currently many retail and related businesses are closed or just selling curbside retail.
Stores selling essential items such as groceries, pharmaceuticals, and electronics (Costco,
Target, Seafood City, Saar's Supersaver, Bartells, Walgreens, Best Buy, Video Only, etc.) are
open. Westfield Southcenter mall is closed but some of its stores are selling curbside retail.
Restaurants are only open for pick-up and delivery. Admissions and gambling based
businesses are closed. Tukwila has some other essential businesses that are open such as in
logistics or food production, but many are operating at reduced levels.
DISCUSSION
One of the key questions is when will King County be ready and allowed to move into Phase 2.
Among other criteria, in order to get a variance to move into Phase 2 ahead of the whole State,
King County would need to average fewer than 10 new cases during a two -week period. During
the two -week period of May 3 through 17, King County had 39 cases per 100,000 residents.
According to the King County Health Department website as of May 27, there should be enough
testing capacity for anyone in the County who has symptoms and anyone who has been in
close contact with someone who has symptoms to get tested. Depending on how successful
we are with isolation, contact tracing, and quarantining the risk of spread may continue to
decline. Recently, the Institute for Disease Modeling (IDM) showed that a comprehensive
program of increased testing, isolation of infected people, and contact tracing with quarantine of
home and work contacts could prevent growth in the epidemic as King County gradually re-
opens the economy (and relaxes some physical distancing measures) to approximately 75% of
pre -pandemic level of public activities. See attached King County Public Health Insider report
for more information.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
No budget changes are requested at this time.
RECOMMENDATION
Information and discussion only.
ATTACHMENTS
WA State Safe Start presentation
WA State Reopening Guidance for Businesses and Workers
King County Public Health Insider
32 https://tukwilawa.sharepoint.com/sites/mayorsoffice/cc/Council Agenda Items/Mayor's Office/PED 2020-6-1 Infomemo.doc
Safe Start
Washington
Phased Approach to Recovery
ISSUED BY THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR I MAY4,2020
W
Safe Start Washington
Governor Jay Inslee
Governor Jay Inslee, in collaboration with the Washington State Department of Health, has
established a data -driven approach to reopen Washington and modify physical distancing
measures while minimizing the health impacts of COVID-19.
This approach reduces the risk of COVID-19 to Washington's most vulnerable populations and
preserves capacity in our health care system, while safely opening up businesses and resuming
gatherings, travel, shopping, and recreation. The plan involves assessing COVID-19 activity in the
state along with health care system readiness, testing capacity and availability, case and contact
investigations, and ability to protect high -risk populations.
COVID-19 DISEASE ACTIVITY
Before reopening Washington and modifying physical distancing measures, COVID-19 disease burden must
be low and decreasing as measured by:
LOW RISK HIGH RISK • Number and trend of COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths in Washington State
COVID-19 Disease Activity • Modeling data, including Institute for Disease Modeling on Puget Sound area rates of COVID-19 spread,
University of Washington Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation modeling, and Youyang Gu modeling
• Mobility trends in Washington State, including WSDOT traffic data and Google Mobility Data
READINESS AND CAPABILITIES NEEDED
The Department of Health and local public health officials will monitor data to assess our state's readiness
for safely reopening and modifying physical distancing measures. In addition to a low and decreasing
disease burden, readiness must be achieved in four key areas to proceed from where we are now in the
"Stay Home, Stay Healthy" order (Phase 1) to Phase 11, III and IV of the plan. The four key areas include
healthcare system readiness, testing capacity and availability, case and contact investigations, and ability
to protect high -risk populations. The overall goals for each area, along with the pertinent data that will be
considered, are detailed below.
SAFE START WASHINGTON: A PHASED APPROACH TO RECOVERY
W
cyl
1. Health Care System Readiness
Adequate bed capacity, staffing and supplies in the health care system to handle a surge in COVID-19 cases,
/ "AA& measured by:
LOW RISK HIGH RISK
Health Care System Readiness • Number and percentage of licensed beds and ICU beds available in hospitals
• Number of available ventilators
• Days of personal protective equipment (PPE) supply available at hospitals, long-term care facilities,
and other health care settings
• Ability of the state to fill high priority PPE requests from local emergency management agencies
• Ability of hospitals and other health care facilities to surge and coordinate movement of patients
2. Testing Capacity and Availability
Ability for everyone with COVID-19 symptoms and those with high -risk exposures to be tested immediately
using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test and rapidly receive test results as measured by:
LOW RISK HIGH RISK
Testing Capacity and Availability • Geographic distribution of testing sites and ability to serve the entire population
• Number and capacity of laboratories in Washington performing COVID-19 testing
• Availability of sufficient swabs, viral transport media, lab reagents, and other materials required for
COVID-19 testing
• Number of tests performed per day
3. Case and Contact Investigations
Ability to rapidly isolate those with COVID-19, identify and quarantine their contacts, and provide case
/ "AA&& management services as measured by:
LOW RISK HIGH RISK
Case and Contact Investigations • Number of investigators trained and working
• Plans for case management
• Availability of isolation and quarantine facilities in local jurisdictions
• Percent of cases investigated within 24 hours of receipt of positive test report
• Percent of contact investigations initiated within 48 hours of receipt of positive test report
SAFE START WASHINGTON: A PHASED APPROACH TO RECOVERY
W
4. Ability to Protect High -Risk Populations
Ability to immediately respond to outbreaks in congregate settings, such as long-term care facilities,
/ "AA& behavioral health facilities, agricultural worker housing, homeless shelters and correctional facilities, and
LOW RISK HIGH RISK address the needs of other high -risk populations, including the elderly and the medically frail, measured by:
Risk to Vulnerable Populations
• Number of outbreaks in long-term care facilities
• Demographic data, including race/ethnicity data, on COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths
• Ability of local or state strike teams with adequate PPE to respond to an outbreak within 24 hours
ALL INDIVIDUALS AND BUSINESSES
Until there is an effective vaccine, effective treatment or herd immunity, it is crucial to maintain some level of
community interventions to suppress the spread of COVID-19 throughout all phases of recovery. This includes
heightened protections for the health and safety of workers in essential sectors, people living and working in
high -risk facilities (e.g., senior care facilities) and all other workers.
All Washingtonians have a responsibility to protect themselves and others. Each phase, while allowing for
additional services to open and return to full capacity, is grounded in the following required basic practices:
Guidance for Individuals
All phases — Individuals should continue to:
• Engage in physical distancing, staying at least six feet away from other people
• Wear cloth face coverings in public places when not eating or drinking (cloth face coverings should not
be placed on children younger than 2 years of age, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious,
incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the cover without assistance)
• Stay home if sick
• Avoid others who are sick
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water (use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available)
• Cover coughs and sneezes
• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
• Disinfect surfaces and objects regularly
SAFE START WASHINGTON: A PHASED APPROACH TO RECOVERY
W
Requirements for All Employers
All phases - Employers are required to:
• Maintain the six-foot physical distancing requirements for employees and patrons. Adopt other
prevention measures such as barriers to block sneezes and coughs when physical distancing is not
possible for a particular job task.
• Provide services while limiting close interactions with patrons.
• Provide adequate sanitation and personal hygiene for workers, vendors and patrons. Ensure employees
have access to hand washing facilities so they can wash their hands frequently with soap and
running water.
• Ensure frequent cleaning and disinfection of the business, particularly of high -touch surfaces.
• Identify personal protective equipment (PPE) and cloth facial coverings in accordance with L&I
requirements on facial coverings and industry specific COVID-19 standards. Provide the necessary PPE and
supplies to employees.
• Identify strategies for addressing ill employees, which should include requiring COVID-19 positive
employees to stay at home while infectious, and potentially restricting employees who were directly
exposed to the COVID-19 positive employee. Follow CDC cleaning guidelines to deep clean after reports
of an employee with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 illness. This may involve the closure of the business
until the location can be properly disinfected.
• Educate employees about COVID-19 in a language they best understand. The education should include
the signs, symptoms and risk factors associated with COVID-19 and how to prevent its spread.
• On a case -by -case basis, as directed by federal, state and local public health and workplace safety officials,
implement other practices appropriate for specific types of businesses, such as screening of employees
for illness and exposures upon work entry, requiring non -cash transactions, etc.
• Follow requirements in Governor Inslee's Proclamation 20-46 High -Risk Employees - Workers' Rights.
• Keep a safe and healthy facility in accordance with state and federal law, and comply with COVID-19
worksite-specific safety practices, as outlined in Governor Inslee's "Stay Home, Stay Healthy" Proclamation
20-25, and in accordance with the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries General
Coronavirus Prevention Under Stay Home, Stay Healthy Order and the Washington State Department of
Health Workplace and Employer Resources & Recommendations.
• Challenge Seattle and the Washington Roundtable have developed a business checklist which is a
great starting point for businesses as they prepare for a Safe Start. Our shared goal is to establish clear
requirements that everyone can understand and apply — employers, workers and customers.
Businesses are also expected to implement any additional requirements developed specifically for their
industry, such as those that have been established for construction.
SAFE START WASHINGTON: A PHASED APPROACH TO RECOVERY
PHASED APPROACH TO REOPENING WASHINGTON
AND MODIFYING PHYSICAL DISTANCING MEASURES
Phase I of reopening Washington begins on May 5, 2020. When COVID-19 disease burden is low and
decreasing and the four above capabilities are met, the Governor will issue an order for the state to move
into future phases. The state will stay in every phase for a minimum of three weeks. During that time, the
Department of Health and the Governor will re-evaluate the above indicators and determine if the state
should remain in the current phase, advance to the next phase or return to the previous phase. No phase
will last less than three weeks before moving to the next phase, in order to allow one complete disease
incubation period plus an additional week to compile complete data and confirm trends.
The following table shows the phased approach for reopening businesses and resuming activities not
authorized under Proclamation 20-25. This phased approach may be adjusted as the pandemic evolves.
The industries listed are not an exclusive or exhaustive list of industries. Businesses listed in each phase of
the plan will have industry -specific guidance and safety criteria developed to ensure workplace safety and
public health are maintained. Those business activities are not authorized to open until the industry -specific
guidance and safety criteria are issued.
A number of different factors were considered when deciding which activities could be resumed and which
businesses could be reopened in various phases. These factors included:
• Risk of disease spread during the individual or business activity
• Number of people who could potentially be infected during the individual or business activity
• Economic benefits to opening the business
• Individual benefits to opening the business
Additional plans for a phased approach to restarting health care and educational activities are under
development.
Families are adjusting to a new way of life, and we understand the impacts this is having on them. The
connection between education, childcare, youth sports, summer programs and extracurricular activities is
critical and must be viewed from a holistic lens to ensure equity and high quality of life. As we prepare for
what the reopening of school looks like, we will be working closely with the Department of Health, Office
of the Superintendent for Public Instruction, Department of Children, Youth and Families, and parents to
release plans in the future.
While childcare is currently an essential business activity and a key component to the reopening plan,
we know there is more to do. The state will continue efforts to ensure adequate access and affordability
for families.
SAFE START WASHINGTON: A PHASED APPROACH TO RECOVERY
WASHINGTON'S PHASED APPROACH
Modifying Physical Distancing Measures as we Reopen the State
High -Risk
Populations*
Recreation
INDIVIDUALS AND BUSINESSES SHOULD FOLLOW ALL REQUIREMENTS LISTED ABOVE DURING ALL PHASES
Phase 1
Continue to Stay Home, Stay Healthy
Some outdoor recreation
(hunting, fishing, golf, boating, hiking)
Phase 2
Continue to Stay Home, Stay Healthy
Outdoor recreation involving fewer than
5 people outside your household
(camping, beaches, etc.)
Phase 3
Continue to Stay Home, Stay Healthy
Outdoor group recreational sports
activities (5-50 people)
Recreational facilities at <50% capacity
(gyms, public pools, etc.)
Professional sports without audience
participation (horseracing, baseball, etc.)
Gatherings None
g Drive-in spiritual service with Gather with no more than 5 people Allow gatherings with no more than
(social, spiritual) one household per vehicle outside your household per week 50 people
Essential travel and limited non -essential Essential travel and limited non -essential
Travel travel for Phase I permissible activities travel for Phase I & II permissible activities Resume non -essential travel
Essential businesses open
Existing construction that meets
agreed upon criteria
Landscaping
Auto/RV/Boat/ORV sales
Business/ Retail (curb -side pick-up orders only)
Car washes
Employers Pet walkers
Remaining manufacturing
Additional construction phases
In-home/domestic services
(nannies, housecleaning, etc.)
Retail (in-store purchases allowed
with restrictions)
Real estate
Professional services/office-based
businesses (telework remains strongly
encouraged)
Hair and nail salons/barbers
Pet grooming
Restaurants <50% capacity table size
no larger than 5
Restaurants/taverns <75%capacity/
table size no larger than 10
Bar areas in restuarant/taverns at
<25% capacity
Movie theaters at <50% capacity
Customer -facing government services
(telework remains strongly encouraged)
Libraries
Museums
All other business activities not yet
listed except for nightclubs and events
with greater than 50 people
Phase 4
Resume public interactions,
with physical distancing
Resume all recreational activity
Allow gatherings with >50 people
Continue non -essential travel
Nightclubs
Concert venues
Large sporting events
Resume unrestricted staffing of worksites,
but continue to practice physical
distancing and good hygiene
* High -risk populations are currently defined by CDC as: persons 65 years of age and older; people of all ages with underlying medial conditions (particularly not well controlled), including people with chronic lung disease or moderate to severe asthma, people who have serious heart conditions,
people who are immunocompromised, people with severe obesity, people with diabetes, people with chronic kidney disease undergoing dialysis, and people with liver disease; people who live in a nursing home or long-term carefacility.
W 6 SAFE START WASHINGTON: A PHASED APPROACH TO RECOVERY
R
COUNTY VARIANCE REQUESTS
The Department of Health recognizes that there are currently some small counties with a population of less
than 75,000 that have not identified a resident with COVID-19 for the past three weeks. These counties have
the opportunity to apply for a variance to move to Phase II of this plan before the rest of the state. To apply
for a variance, the local jurisdiction must follow the below process and submit the following materials to the
Department of Health. County variance applications will be approved or denied by the Secretary of Health.
1. The process must adhere to the following steps:
The local public health officer must submit a signed recommendation to the local board of health with
one of the following recommendations: not request a variance and stay in Phase I, request a variance
to include all of the Phase II modifications above, or request a variance to include a subset of
Phase II modifications.
b. The local board of health, if they choose to move forward with a variance request, must vote on
such a request.
c. The local hospital(s) must submit a letter certifying that they have adequate bed capacity to serve their
community and adequate PPE supplies to keep their workers safe.
d. The county commission/council must request to move to Phase II (or a subset of Phase II) of the plan.
2. The county commissioner must submit a letter requesting a variance, the letter from the local hospital
certifying they have adequate bed capacity to serve their community and adequate PPE supplies to
keep their workers safe, and a document that includes the following information to the Department
of Health:
a. Plans to make COVID-19 testing available and accessible to everyone in the county with symptoms
consistent with COVID-19.
b. The number of tests performed by week over the past three weeks.
c. The number of people trained and ready to perform case investigations and contact tracing.
d. Plans to house people in isolation or quarantine who do not have a home or wish to isolate or
quarantine themselves outside of their home.
e. Plans to provide case management services to cases and contacts in isolation and quarantine.
f. Plans to rapidly respond to outbreaks in congregate settings.
SAFE START WASHINGTON: A PHASED APPROACH TO RECOVERY
Included with this application are documents demonstrating approvals and endorsements for all of
the following:
a. The local public health officers' recommendation to the Board of Health.
b. Documentation of the vote of the Board of Health, including the motion and the vote totals.
c. Letters from all hospitals used by the county certifying their bed capacity for COVID-19 patients and
PPE supplies.
d. Documentation of the vote of the county commission, including the vote totals.
In the next two weeks, the Department of Health and Governor Inslee will consider additional criteria which
could include cases per capita for allowing other counties to apply for a variance. Local jurisdictions will be
allowed to partially implement a phase.
8 SAFE START WASHINGTON: A PHASED APPROACH TO RECOVERY
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