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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005-04 Hazelnut Newsletter - Volume 26 No. 2THE HAZELNUT A City of Tukwila publication for our residential and business communities VOLUME 26, NUMBER 2 APRIL 2005 GET 1EA 1r Fe* ft W1 L ( J FE) FMR! The fifth annual Backyard Wildlife Fair returns to Tukwila again this year on May 14, bringing with it visitors from throughout the region, and a growing celebrity status for what local garden- ing enthusiast and City Councilwoman Pam Linder calls "a genuinely unique celebration that you won't find any- where else on the planet." It's a full day of free festivities at the Tukwila Community Center (12424 - 42nd Ave S) that usher in the spring and celebrate everyone's efforts to at- tract birds, butterflies and other wild- life to their backyards. The Fair begins with a brand new not - to -be -missed event borrowed from the city of Olympia: a Procession of the Species parade. The Parade features kids (of all ages) using as much creativ- ity as they can muster to mimic their favorite species of animal. Starting at 10:OOAm, the Fair will of- fer instructions on how to certify your backyard as a wildlife sanctuary, na- ture shows, presentations and hands- on workshops, native plant sales and guidance, birdscaping and birdhouse building instructions, wildlife -friendly gardening, arts & crafts booths, food, music, and plenty of tips for creating backyard wildlife habitats. Kid -friendly events include hands-on activities, fun children's fact sheets, arts & crafts, plus games and prizes. Later, the Fair will host self -guided lo- cal tours of certified wildlife gardens. During the Fair, you'll have a chance to chat with wildlife biologists (try to stump them!) and visit with experts 5th Annual Backyard Wildlife Fair Saturday — May 14, 2005 Tukwila Community Center Schedule: Procession of the Species 9:OOAM Backyard Wildlife Fair 1 O:OOAM-3:OOPM Wildlife Garden Tour 3:00-5:00PM from the National Wildlife Federation, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Backyard Wildlife Sanctuary program, Seattle Audubon Society, the Native Plant Society, the Song- bird Foundation, Shade -Grown Coffee Campaign, Bats Northwest, Herons Forever, Woodland Park Zoo Wild Wise Program, and many more. Gretchen Muller of the National Wild- life Federation noted that Tukwila was the first city in the state of Washington to be certified as a Community Wild- life Habitat. "It's a big plus for Tukwila citizens to know how much they've accomplished and how other cities are now using Tukwila's model to get cer- tified," Muller said. "Because of Tuk- wila's leadership, the Northwest could become the first certified eco -region in the nation." The Federation is co -sponsoring the Fair with the City of Tukwila, the Washing- ton Department of Fish and Wild- life, and the Port of Seattle. The Fair has attracted accolades from the Washington State Senate, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell, other elected officials and community organizations and activists from across the region. For more information, call 206-285- 8707, ext. 109, or visit the website: www. backyardwildlifefair. org. BACKYARD WILDLIFE FAIR ADVISORY COMMITTEE ' Russell Link, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Gretchen Muller, National Wildlife Federation Pam Linder, Tukwila City Council Michelle Roedell, Tukwila Wildlife Habitat Project Tukwila City Council Actions: January Et February 2004 January 2005 Elected Pam Linder as Council Presi- dent. Approved resolution supporting leg- islative priorities that will be used to request State and Federal funding for certain projects. Approved ordinance extending for six months moratorium on certain land di- visions and development activities near Longacres Station. Approved contract for preparation of supplemental Environmental Impact Statement and Planned Action Ordi- nance for Tukwila Urban Center with Huckell Weinman Associates, Inc. Accepted 10% Request for Annexation in order to start process for annexing approximately 250 acres of Segale prop- erty in unincorporated King County. February 2005 Appointed Dennis Sivak to Civil Ser- vice Commission; and John Snodgrass, Sylvia Erskine, and Lynn Churchill to Community -Oriented Policing Citi- zens' Advisory Board (COPCAB). Reappointed Russell Bradley, Alida Tus- tison and Cynthia Chesak to Arts Com- mission; and Steve Miller to Library Advisory Board. Approved 2005 service contract with SW King County Chamber of Com- merce. Approved supplement for completion of Southcenter Parkway design, associ- ated surface water system, and design of realigned South 178th Street, with David Evans and Associates. Approved labor agreements with Tuk- wila Police Officers' Guild for 2004 and 2005-2007, and with Firefighters Local No. 2088 for 2005-2007. Appointed Mikel Hansen to Lodging Tax Advisory Board. 2 Approved contract for design of over- lay and repairs for portions of 43rd Av- enue South, South 164th Street, 49th Avenue South, Macadam Road South, South 115th Street, and Southcenter Boulevard, with W & H Pacific. Approved Interlocal Agreement amend- ing original contract for water supply with Cascade Water Alliance. Approved ordinance revision allow- ing resident to fill business position on Community -Oriented Policing Citizens Advisory Board (COPCAB) if no busi- ness member can be recruited. Approved one additional inspector in Fire Prevention in order to handle an- ticipated major construction projects. Approved contract for design of small, neighborhood drainage projects for 2005-2006 with KPG, Inc. Approved 2005 contract for city attor- ney and other legal services with Ken- yon Disend, PLLC. Approved 2005 contracts for lobbying services with M.J. Durkan (State and local issues) and Ball Janik, LLP (Fed- eral issues). Approved resolution setting public hearing date for seven street vacations required to accommodate Sound Tran- sit's LINK light rail project. Approved letters of understanding to extend labor contracts through end of 2005 with three Teamster's bargaining units. Accepted turnover of improvements from The Junction development (aka Bergstrom subdivision). For up-to-date information about Council meetings/agendas/activities, visit our website: http://www.ci.tukwila.wa.us Some residents may be eligible for 2003 utility tax rebates In 2003 the City of Tukwila im- posed a Utility Tax and added surcharge to Seattle City Light customers as a franchise fee. A policy has been established by the City to rebate the additional taxes and franchise surcharge fees to low-income seniors (62 or older) or disabled residents who may be eligible for electric and natural gas utility rebates. Criteria for eligibility: • Must be at least 62 years of age or disabled. • Must have combined income of less than $31,150 or less than $27,250 if single. • Must be a Puget Sound Energy or Seattle City Light customer. Required information (due by June 30, 2005): • Must complete one-page appli- cation at the Finance Depart- ment in Tukwila City Hall. • Must provide copy of their 2004 Income Tax Return. • Provide their Puget Sound Energy or Seattle City Light Account number. Payment process: Those applicants determined to be eligible will receive a rebate check from the City based on the actual taxes and surcharges paid for 2004. For more information, please call Lily Jue at 206-433-7190. 0 49, THE HAZELNUT From Tukwila's Code Enforcement Office Coping With Coyotes, or How to Live with Urban Wildlife A drive in almost any area of the City will reveal some type of construction or development work underway. Change is constant, and new homes and businesses mean we're grow- ing and attracting new people to our community. Unfortunately, new development work often displaces some of the wildlife that are native to this area — such as raccoons, possums, skunks, and coyotes. Code Enforcement has received several calls in the past few weeks re- garding sightings of coyotes in open areas, roadways, and even backyards. Here are some important things to keep in mind: • The promise of food is what lures coyotes and other wildlife into suburban yards. Never leave pet food or water outside; if you compost, be sure to use enclosed bins and never include meat or fish scraps. Keep all trash and garbage securely contained in covered bins. Pick up fruit fallen from fruit trees or rotted fruit on the ground. • Coyotes can be serious predators of cats and small dogs. Owners can protect their pets by not letting them outdoors unattended, especially at night. (Coyotes and raccoons are primarily nocturnal). • Poultry can be protected from predators with fencing and by ensuring that the animals are confined in sturdy cages or pens each evening. • Clear brush and dense weeds from around your house. • If coyotes visit your yard, tell them they're not welcome. Be assertive — make loud noises or spray near them with garden hoses. Coyotes and other wildlife help keep the balance of nature in order. They are great at insect and rodent control. An area with coyotes will not be overrun with mice, gophers, squirrels, rabbits or insects. Wild animals may be in your area for three reasons: food, water and shelter. Eliminate these and the wildlife will relocate themselves. The internet offers a wealth of information on ur- ban wildlife. Here are a couple: www.wdfw.wa.gov/w1m/diversity/living/coyotes.htm www.hsus.org/wildlife/urban wildlife our wild neighbors www.fundwildlife.org Tukwila Code Enforcement - 206-431-3682 COUNCIL CORNER by Pamela Linder, Council President This year our February was every bit like Spring, warm and dry and sunny. Predicting the weather is not an exact sci- ence... just as forecasting the workload of the City Council is not exact either. There are, however, a few things we can rely on every year. During this early part of the year, Tuk- wila's Councilmembers have their duties set out for them. Tukwila citizens are impacted by what happens in Olympia and in Washington, D.C. The City Council has developed good working relationships with our partners in both cities. Throughout the year we keep communication lines open with our state Legislators; February's City Legislative Confer- ence in Olympia puts special focus on State legislative issues, providing an opportunity to meet with our State Legislators to discuss our City's fiscal conditions, transportation funding, economic development strategies, the impacts of Growth Management Act updates, and other critical issues. The City's concerns were carried to this two-day conference by Councilmembers Joan Hernandez, Pam Carter and Den- nis Robertson, who attended along with Mayor Steve Mullet and Legislative Analyst Lucy Lauterbach. Council has a lot to do this time of year Mid -March's focus turns to Washington, D.C., with Council - members Pam Carter, Jim Haggerton and Dave Fenton rep- resenting the entire council's agenda at the conference. We receive regular reports from our lobbyists and have some correspondence with our Legislators throughout the year: However, we've learned through experience that there is no substitute for sitting down face-to-face to discuss Tukwila's needs in their Washington, D.C. offices. Here at home, our biggest project will be the continuation of work on the annexation of Tukwila Valley South and the Developer's Agreement. Staff is working hard and keeping the Council briefed as the project proceeds. I look forward to reporting the progress on this exciting and unique project as we go through the year. Enough reading. Let's all go out enjoy some Northwest Springtime! Contact your Tukwila City Council: Council Message Line — 206-431-3652 Agenda Info Line — 206-431-3656 Council Email Address: Tukcounc@ci.tukwila.wa.us APRIL 2005 3 Update from Sound Transit Civil construction bids opened for Tukwila light rail On February 15, Sound Transit opened bids for major construction on the Tukwila segment of the Link light rail project. This five -mile section of pre- dominantly elevated trackway runs between south Seattle and Tukwila In- ternational Boulevard. PCL Construction Services is the low- est of four bidders. At $231.7 million, the PCL bid is 10% below the engi- neers' estimate. The Sound Transit Board awarded a contract to PCL after determining they met all requirements as a responsive and responsible bidder. Construction is scheduled to begin in the spring with completion set for the end of 2007. The systems work (sig- nals, controls, and electric power) will be finished in the summer of 2008. This is the last of five major civil works contracts to be awarded for Link light rail. Overall, the bids have come in 6% under estimates. Utility undergrounding work already under way Sound Transit's contractor, Frank Co- luccio Construction Company, is con- tinuing to move overhead utility wires out of the way of the future trackway for Link light rail trains. Power lines, telephone wires, and cable TV lines are being put under ground in certain loca- tions. The work includes installing under- ground vaults and conduits. Seattle City Light follows with the installation of transformers and conductors. The current work zone includes Southcen- ter Boulevard between 42nd and 53rd Avenues, and on 52nd Avenue South as it extends north of Southcenter Bou- levard. This spring, the contractor will also be- gin doing this work along E. Marginal 4 Way between the Duwamish River and Boeing Access Road. Roads remain open but flaggers will of- ten flag traffic one direction at a time, so motorists should expect delays. The contractor works out of a staging area on the corner of 52nd Avenue S. and Southcenter Boulevard. Sound Transit's toll-free Construction Hotline is available 24 hours every day at 888-298-2395. If you see an urgent issue concerning Sound Transit con- struction, please contact this number; your call will be answered promptly. Light rail is going to the Airport Sound Transit, the Port of Seattle, and the City of SeaTac have agreed on a major new project that will bring Link light rail directly to Sea -Tac Airport. The agreement, which was reached in December, will result in a 1.7 mile extension to the initial segment of the light rail project. The extension will reach from the initial segment's inter- im terminus at Tukwila International Boulevard Station to a new station at the airport. At the airport station, there will be a pedestrian walkway directly to the airport terminal. From the station, it will be a four -minute walk to the near- est airport ticket counter. A pedestrian bridge will also connect in the other di- rection across International Boulevard to the planned SeaTac City Center re- development area. The airport rail service is scheduled to open at the end of 2009, six months after the opening of the initial segment of Link light rail. Riders will enjoy a re- liable, congestion -free 33 -minute ride between the airport and downtown Seattle. Trains will operate every six minutes during rush hours, and every 10 to 15 minutes during midday and evening hours. Road improvements are part of the package In addition to extending light rail to the airport, the project also includes road improvements by the Port of Seattle. The Port will relocate the northbound lanes of the North Airport Expressway and relocate South 170th Street. The Port has already begun working on a new loop ramp near South 160th Street that allows northbound motor- ists to return to the terminal. Improvements are also needed to the State Route 518 freeway. To alleviate congestion caused by traffic leaving the airport, an additional eastbound lane is needed between the airport and the I-5 freeway. The parties to the agreement are seeking construction funds for this lane from the State Legislature. Costs and funding The extension of light rail to the air- port will cost approximately $225 mil- lion, assuming no major plan changes and the project is completed in 2009. Sound Transit will fund the extension through existing revenues and addi- tional grant funding. The Port of Seattle will pay for the road improvements on their property using airport revenues. Years of discussion The airport agreement follows two years of intense planning and negotia- tion. The final agreement defines roles and responsibilities, including funding, for each of the three public agencies. This high level of agency cooperation will make it easier and more conve- nient for transit riders, pedestrians, and drivers to use the airport. By coop- erating, the work will be completed by December 2009, in time to serve trav- elers visiting the region for the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver, B.C. For further information, please con- tact Sue Comis at 206-398-5143 or comiss@soundtransit.org, or visit their website at www soundtransit.org. THE HAZELNUT Sabey Corporation gives committee boost The activities of the Highway 99 Action Committee have included organized crime watch duties, litter control on Tuk- wila International Boulevard, and an annual free public Bar- becue that is held at Larry's Market in the late summer. Over the history of the Committee, the group has cleaned over 15,000 pounds of litter from the Boulevard during their once -a -month, rain -or -shine cleanups — an incredible feat, since most of this amount is litter and trash. The nucleus of the group is made up of citizens and busi- ness owners along the 99 corridor. Over the ensuing eight- year history, they have been joined by members of the LDS Church, Delta Masonic Hall, the Church by the Side of the Road, and Sabey Corporation. The Sabey Corporation has extensive holdings along the north end of the Boulevard and recently completed the new Homeland Security Building. At the monthly cleanups in January and February, good neighbor Sabey Corporation fielded 25 people, including Dave Sabey, to join the regulars. The 35 volunteers netted 620 pounds of litter in two 1 -hour sessions! Thanks to efforts between business, citizens and the City of Tukwila, the Highway 99 Action Committee is "making a difference" on Tukwila International Boulevard. Highway 99 Action Committee meetings are held at 7:00PM on the second Tuesday of each month at the Tukwila Com- munity Center. Citizens are invited to attend. APRIL 2005 -1111111 Tukwila citizens prepare to visit Japan Forty-eight travelers will leave Tukwila on April 6 to make their way to Japan and our Sister City Ikawa. There are 23 students included on this trip, mostly from Showalter and Foster. The group will travel to Osaka, and from there will take a bullet train to Hiroshima. They'll also visit Himeji City before traveling to Kyoto. From Kyoto they'll be taken to Ikawa where they'll spend several days with their Ikawa host families. The group will return April 13. Tukwila and Ikawa have been Sister Cities for 25 years. Many who are going have parents or siblings who have traveled to Ikawa before, and many have hosted our Ikawa friends when they visit here. Some going on this year's trip were on the exchange the first time we visited Ikawa in 1981. Staying in the home of a Japanese family is one of the best cultural experiences a traveler can have. It's led to a close- ness between citizens in both our cities. Visitors feel they're greeting old friends, though they meet with each other only when visits occur. National policies in Japan dictate that many small cities like Ikawa will be joined with other surrounding towns to make one bigger "city" instead of four or five smaller cities. Ikawa will be joining other cities soon, making this trip special. Tukwila and Ikawa will remain sister cities as long as we can remember our special understanding and appreciation as friends that will outlast any coming changes. A Sister Cities "Thank You" The Tukwila Sister Cities Committee would like to thank the community for taking part in our Spaghetti Dinner/Auction held on February 25. Because of the strong support shown, we were able to provide over $100 to each of the 23 student delegation members traveling to Ikawa, Japan in early April. The students are busy learning "survival" Japanese and im- portant facts about Japanese customs as they anxiously await what for many will be the trip of a lifetime. Tukwila Police looking for volunteers Tukwila Police volunteers donate their time and work in various divisions of the Police Department including Police Administration, Investigations, Traffic, the Neighborhood Resource Center (NRC), the Community Resource Center (CRC), and the Patrol Division. Volunteer Positions include: • Community Liaison and Office Assistant • Traffic Safety Program Volunteer • Pawn Detail Volunteer • Data Entry and Special Projects Assistant If you're interested in volunteering, please contact Adminis- trative Secretary Marja Murray at 206-433-7175. 5 Golf Lessons at Foster Intermediate? Beginner? Never seen a golf ball? Whatever the case, we have lessons to fit your needs and your pocketbook! Don't miss your opportunity to sign up for golf les- sons at Foster Golf Links with PGA Professional Warren Orr. Contact us today at 206-267-3114 or via e-mail — worr@ci.tukwila.wa.us Summer Golf Course Fees Summer golf fees begin in April. Resident and senior discounts are available. Book your tee time today! Two parks get new play equipment TUKWILA PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT PARKS • RECREATION • GOLF • AQUATICS Spring Celebration at Tukwila Library • Entertainment • Activities • Snacks • Giveaways • Book Sale and more! Save the date! Please join the Tukwila Library for its Spring Celebration on Wednesday, April 13, from 1:00-4:00PM. Admission is free. Planned activities in- clude the Roving Reptile Ranch, face painting, book sale and tours of the newly renovated facility. Call 206-244-5140 for additional information. Help Wanted! Friends of the Tukwila Libraries is look- ing for volunteers to assist in coordinat- ing events that promote activities and programs at the libraries, as well as rais- ing money to buy new books and provide educational programs. Please consider volunteering as an active member of the Friends of Tukwila Libraries organization. The City of Tukwila is host to three King County Library System libraries: Histori- cal Tukwila Library, Foster Library, and the Library Connection @ Southcenter. Please call either Tukwila Library at 206- 244-5140 or Foster Library at 206-242- 1640 to volunteer. April Pools Day! Don't miss the 2005 April Pool's Day event at the Tukwila Pool on Saturday, April 16, from 1:00-3:00PM. Activi- ties will include penny hunts, raft and lifejacket relays, water balloon and ring tosses, and more! Call the pool at 206- 267-2350 for additional information. And remember... the pool is available for private rentals! Shoot down the slides, jump off the diving board, float on the mats and noodles, or play a fun game of water basketball. Tukwila Community Center 206-768-2822 Tukwila City Pool 206-267-2350 Tukwila's Foster Golf Links 206-242-4221 New playground equipment was recently installed at both Crystal Springs and Duwamish Parks. Funding for the replacement equipment purchase was made possible through the 2004 Community Development Block Grant. Remember to enjoy your parks! 6 Crystal Springs Park • 15832 - 51st Avenue South Duwamish Park • 11646 - 42nd Avenue South — THE HAZELNUT °ne of Tukw�,���9►n up toga Camp Tukwilly 4 POpu/ar S for Your 2005 Summer Day Camp ufli ier pay Join us this summer at Camp Tukwilly and make some apS� memories that will last a lifetime! Be prepared for non-stop fun as we enjoy weekly field trips, swimming, games, arts & crafts, camper days, special events, and so much more. It's a great way to make new friends and to be re- united with some old friends. Camp is open to those entering grades K-5 at the beginning of the 2005-06 school year. Camp hours are Monday -Friday, from 6:30AM to 6:OOPM. Maximum enrollment is 100 participants. Swimming Lessons for Summer Camp Participants Back by popular demand, we'll be offering a swim lesson program for children en- rolled in Camp Tukwilly. Swim lessons are open to all skills and abilities. Lessons will be held at the Tukwila Pool on a weekly basis. Transportation to and from the pool will be provided by camp staff. Lessons are limited to 12 campers so sign up early to guarantee your spot. Adventure Camp Too old for Camp Tukwilly, but too young for Teen Camp? This Camp is special- ized for those entering 5th & 6th grades at the beginning of the 2005-06 school year. Campers share new adventures with friends as they travel nearly everyday to locations all around the greater Seattle area! Although camp activities are pre - planned, the schedule is subject to change based on popular opinion. Camp hours are Monday -Friday, 6:30AM to 6:00PM. Maximum enrollment is 26 participants. Sports Camps Special one-week camps for the young athletes in your house! "Sports for Shorts" July 11-15 Ages 4-5, 6-7 July 25-29 "Best Effort" Basketball Camp August 1-5 Ages 7-1I FREE! Soccer Camp August 15-19 Ages 6-8, 9-12 Tennis Camp August 22-26 Ages 8-1 I, 12 & up Call for rates and registration deadlines! Teen Camp Designed to give teens something positive to do during their Summer Vacation, Teen Camp is offered to students who'll be attending 7th - 9th grades in the 2005-06 school year. You can expect weekly hiking trips and community service activi- ties as well as trips to the movies, amusement parks, sporting events and more! A free summer sack lunch program is also available for partici- pants. Camp is offered Monday thru Friday from 6:30AM to 6:00PM. Call 206-768-2822 for information, dates, schedules and fees! Fireworks' ((( Fund needs you For the last three year , e City of Tukwila has been pleased to be able to provide our citizens with a spectacular fireworks display at our Family Fourth at the Fort celebration. This year we are making it possible to everyone in the Tukwila community to have the opportunity to support our efforts. The more contributions raised, the greater the display! Your support is greatly appreciated by the entire Tukwila community. If you are interested in making a contribution to our Family Fourth at the Fort Fire- works Fund, please make your check payable to City of Tukwila and in the memo portion of the check write Fire- works Fund. Mail contributions to: Fireworks Fund Tukwila Community Center 12424 - 42nd Avenue South Tukwila, WA 98168 Please assist our planning efforts by making your contribution as soon as possible or, at the latest, by Friday, May 20. For more information, please call Tracy Gallaway at 206-768-2822 or e- mail to tgallaway@ci.tukwila.wa.us. CaII for Artists! In conjunction with Tukwila Days, the Tukwila Arts Commission presents its 9th Annual Art Show and Competition on Saturday, July 9. This event high- lights and displays original artwork cre- ated by local artists. Entry categories include oil painting, watermedia and graphics (i.e., drawing, printmaking and mixmedia). First, second and third place prizes will be awarded in each category. All entrants are requested to attend an invitation -only preview reception on Friday evening, July 8. Please call 206-767-2342 or visit us online at ci.tukwila.wa.us to request an informational brochure. Public Art Wall at TCC Last month, the Art Commission installed ten pieces of artwork at the Tukwila Community Center. Each piece has been purchased through the years at the Art Commission's annual art show and competition, which is held in conjunction with Tukwila Days. Stop by the Community Center and check out the talents of local artists, many who have focused their work on area interests. You are also invited to enjoy the artwork relocated from the Community Center to the City Hall annex located at 6300 Southcenter Boulevard. APRIL 2005 7 Public Works Department Tukwila's water supply outlook for summer 2005 With the mild winter, there are foreseeable water shortage issues as we head toward spring and summer. Despite how great the sun feels, it can intensify dry conditions for our water supply needs when much of the regional reservoir storage depends on snow melt. Tukwila receives 100% of its water from the Cedar Watershed. At the time of this writing, the Cedar drainage basin only has a snow pack that is 5% of what it normally should be. Water providers are cautiously monitoring supply and keeping reservoir levels high, as curtail- ments on water usage could be a real possibility this summer. The first phase of the City's Water Shortage Response Plan would entail cut- ting back on lawn watering and irrigation and concentrating on only the most essential needs for the household. This also means that you might want to be- gin early to establish new sod or landscape with drought tolerant plantings. The City of Tukwila also promotes conservation and provides information to customers on how to use water wisely. Brochures are available at City Hall or visit the City's website at www.ci.tukwila.wa.us for water saving tips. The City also participates in the Washwise Rebate Program, which if you replace your old washing machine with a new water efficient unit, you will find rebate lev- els of $25, $50, or $100. Information on the rebate program is also available at local appliance stores. Solid waste and recycling rate increase Effective April 1, 2005, residential, multi -family and commercial solid waste and recycling services have been increased slightly (see chart below). This year's rate increase is capped at 2.71%. If you have any problems with your solid waste/re- cycling services, or have questions regarding the rate increase, please call Frank Iriarte at 206-431-2445, or you can send an email to firiarte@ci.tukwila.wa.us. Residential Multi -Family Commercial Description Current Rate New Rate Description Current Rate New Rate Description Current Rate New Rate 10 -Gallon Mini Can $6.63 $6.77 1 -Yard Container $11.87 $12.05 1 -Yard Container $10.37 $10.51 20 -Gallon Mini Can 7.78 7.92 2 -Yard Container 21.18 21.47 2 -Yard Container 18.16 18.37 32 -Gallon Can/Toter 10.48 10.65 4 -Yard Container 39.82 40.34 4 -Yard Container 34.41 34.78 64 -Gallon Toter 14.98 15.17 6 -Yard Container 55.68 56.35 6 -Yard Container 47.95 48.41 90 -Gallon Toter 21.63 21.89 10 -Yard Container 70.05 71.95 10 -Yard Container 60.90 62.55 Keeping Tukwila litter -free Hundreds of bags of litter are collected each month in Tukwila. Trash along roads is a real eyesore and tends to at- tract more litter. Tukwila International Boulevard (TIB) is one area where lit- ter is a growing concern. The Public Works Department cleans and removes the trash from 9 different bus stops on TIB. The bus stop at Larry's Market is a high -use zone and gets the most trash. 30-40 hours per week is spent by City maintenance personnel in an effort to clear trash along city streets and keep the bus stops reasonably clean. The trash recovered consists of discarded wastes and containers from fast food outlets, grocery and convenience stores, and whatever people toss from their vehicles. On occasion the City crew picks up household trash, appli- ances, furniture, and recently over 120 bags of horse manure left by the road in the Ryan Hill area. Given the City's tight budget, workloads and schedules are affected when crews are stretched to do added tasks that delay other road- way safety maintenance. Some of the ways that local businesses and citizens can help: • Promote the use of trash receptacles by employees and patrons. • Keep local trash receptacles main- tained and accessible. • Keep a trash receptacle in every vehicle. • Clear litter along streets near residences or businesses whenever possible. • Maintain landscapes, pruning back trees and shrubs that create hiding areas. • Keep loose or flyaway items under cover. Public Works construction projects to begin this spring and summer Update on Tukwila International Boulevard Phase 1 (South 1 38th to South 152nd Streets) Seattle City Light expects to complete the undergrounding of power lines by May 2005. When City Light's system is energized, Tukwila will mail out 90 - day deadline letters to all affected prop- erty/business owners between South 139th and South 152nd Streets to con- nect to the underground system. Street trees have been installed north of South 144th St and will continue south along the boulevard. Mid -block crosswalks with LightGuardTM in -pavement flash- ing lights are scheduled for completion by June 2005. One flashing crosswalk will be at the new KFC/Taco Bell and the other crosswalk will be between Blockbuster Video and the Northfield Car Wash. Also, Tukwila International Blvd Phase II & III street improvements (South 132nd to South 116th Way) are currently being designed. Allentown/Foster Point Water and Sewer Open House Wednesday, April 27 6:00 to 8:00PM Tukwila Community Center 12424 - 42nd Avenue S Please join us for this Open House where we'll share the re -bid results of the sewer, water and street improve- ments and the next step for the proj- ect. Notices will also be mailed out to the property owners and tenants in advance of the Open House. The design was pared down after the October bids came in $1 million over budget. On March 17, 2005 the re- ceived re -bid results were still not within budget, and we are currently analyzing the bid results. Cascade View Drainage Improvements This storm drainage improvement proj- ect will greatly reduce the amount of groundwater problems in the neigh- borhood by providing a location for existing private drains (yard drains, foundation drains, basement drains, etc.) to connect to the new system. Positive bid results were received on March 15, so the contract should be awarded in April with construction starting in May or June. More infor- mation will be mailed directly to the affected Cascade View neighborhood property owners and tenants. Residents within the project area that received a License to Construct form from the City and have not yet returned it should do so as soon as possible. Without this form, the City's contrac- tor will not be able to complete the res- toration work within private property. If you need a new form or have any questions regarding this project, please call Ryan Larson, City of Tukwila Se- nior Engineer, at 206-431-2456. Residents within the project area that are planning on installing natural gas should contact Puget Sound Energy at 1-888-321-7779 for any information or to start the permit process. Installation of natural gas is not part of the City's project. Any gas work would have to be completed by Puget Sound Energy prior to final paving of the roadway. Once the final pavement has been placed, all open cutting of the roadway will be prohibited for three years. South 144th Street Improvements (Tukwila International Boulevard to Military Road) This project will include roadway re- construction, curbs, gutters, sidewalk, storm drainage, illumination, safety improvements, landscaping, and un- dergrounding of power, phone and ca- ble. Positive bid results were received on March 8, so the contract should be awarded in April with construction starting in May or June. More infor- mation will be mailed directly to the affected property owners and tenants along South 144th Street. Strander Boulevard Stormwater Pipe Replacement This project includes installation of a larger storm drainpipe in Strander Boulevard from Andover Park East to the Green River, and a new stormwa- ter pump station in Bicentennial Park. This long-awaited project will elimi- nate the majority of the flooding at the intersection of Strander Boulevard and Andover Park East. Positive bid results were received on March 1, so the con- tract should be awarded in April with construction starting in May or June. For more information on any of the above construction projects, please contact Bob Giberson at 206-431-2457 or email bgiberson@ci.tukwila.wa.us. APRIL 2005 9 What's New(s) in Human Services Human Services Office Evie — 206-433-7180 Stacy — 206-433-7181 Crisis Clinic (24-hour line) 206-461-3222 Home repair assistance King County's Housing Repair Program continues to provide affordable options to Tukwila home owners who need a major repair but don't have the fi- nances. This federally -funded program offers no -interest loans to qualified low- and moderate -income homeown- ers who have been in their home for at least a year. Several arrangements are possible; you may receive a loan for up to $20,000, with no monthly pay- ments, or you may receive a matching loan, which matches half the funds of the cost of the needed repair. Loans can be paid back when the home is sold or the title is transferred. In some cases, an emergency grant may be available for life-threatening repairs. The maximum amount is $3,000 and does not have to be paid back. Even mobile homes can be eligible for assis- tance; up to $5,000 can be made avail- able to mobile homeowners without ownership in the land on which the mobile home is located. In this era of dwindling resources, this program may not be available next year due to federally proposed cuts. So, if you have a home repair need current- ly, now is the time to act. To qualify, please call 206-296-7640. Area foodbanks serve Tukwila residents Needing to stretch your dollars? Not sure what bill to pay first? You can take advantage of area foodbanks to help meet your household's food needs. The Georgetown Service Center, lo- cated on 5970 - 4th Avenue S, operates Monday through Friday from 9:30AM- 2:30PM. Phone: 206-767-7888. The Tukwila Pantry, located at the Ri- verton Park United Methodist Church, 3118 S 140th Street, serves the com- munity on Mondays and Wednesdays, 1:00-4:OOPM. Phone 206-431-8293. St. Thomas Church, located at 4415 S 140th Street, offers food bags on Wednesdays between 9 and 12. Call 206-242-5501 prior to Wednesday. Northwest Harvest, located at 711 Cherry Street in downtown Seattle, offers food on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9:30-4:30, emergency food from 9:30-4:30 on Tuesdays and Fridays, and baby food from 9:30-4:30 on Thursdays. Call 206-625-0755. There's still time to get tax help It's not too late to receive help in filing for the Earned Income Tax Credit. In the last Hazelnut issue, we shared information about eligibility and site locations for free assistance in accessing earned income tax credits. The campaign is working. Since opening their doors the free tax assistance sites have completed over 1219 returns, helping area residents to receive $2,258,560 in refunds with average refunds of $1,853. Earned income tax refunds have totaled more than $886,695 with 42% of tax assisted households claiming the credit. Tax assistance sites are located in Bellevue, Beacon Hill, the Central District, Rain- ier Beach, downtown Seattle, White Center, Renton, Kent, Burien, SeaTac airport and Federal Way. For information on the service call 1-800-755-5317. Have your taxes electronically prepared by trained multi-lingual volunteers and filed for a rapid refund at no cost. Help for seniors Do you know a senior who may be isolated and need some support in maintaining their independence? The Senior Outreach program, from Senior Services of Seattle/King County can help. Staff members make home visits to Tukwila senior citizens to determine if they have any resource needs. Re- sources are then matched to the senior. Issues addressed can include health care, nutrition, housing, legal support, respite care, employment, transporta- tion and general information and refer- ral. Friendly and helpful, the Outreach staff of Mattie, Mary and Charley can be the key to linking our elders with helpful resources. If calling about your neighbor, it's help- ful to ask the neighbor if it is OK to call, or whether they would like you or the Tukwila Human Services staff to call on their behalf. The Senior Out- reach program can be reached at 206- 726-4926. Teen Resources Teen Link (a program of the Crisis Clinic) is a confidential, non -judgmen- tal telephone help line staffed by super- vised teens every evening from 6:OOPM to 10:OOPM. Teen volunteers receive hours of train- ing to offer support and information on a variety of topics, including teen suicide, dating and domestic violence, depression, relationships, drug and alcohol use, eating disorders, health concerns, employment and job train- ing, and leadership and volunteer op- portunities. No issue is too big or too small. Call the Teen Link at 206-461-4922 or toll free 1-866-TEENLINK (833-6546). 10 THE HAZELNUT TUKWILA Replace with recycling logo, please REPORTER Tukwila Special Residential Recycling Collection Event These materials will be collected and recycled -- p Anti -freeze Motor oil and filers Lead acid batteries Household batteries - AAAA, AAA, AA, A, B, C & D cell batteries only. Tires (6 per load. No rims, no heavy truck or back hoe tires) Bulky yard waste (No rocks, brush, leaves, sod) Scrap wood (Untreated, unpainted wood only.) Refrigerators/freezers/air condi- tioners ($25 will be charged for each unit) Appliances ($5 for each water heater with insulation) Scrap metal (ferrous and non-fer- rous) Reusable household goods (No furniture) Used clothing NOTE: ALL USER FEES WILL BE CASH ONLY Please do not bring: • Hazardous waste • Garbage • Window glass • Concrete • Paint, etc. • Mattresses • Furniture • Plastics You will receive a mailing with addi- tional information on materials to bring and those to leave at home. Future File: Mark your calendar for Tukwila's 12th Community Garage Sale, July 16 and 17, 2005! Foster High School 4242 South I 44th Street Saturday, May 21, 2005 9:OOAM to 3:00PM Cardboard (Please flatten. No wax -coated cardboard) p Porcelain toilets and sinks (Remove toilet seats, hardware and base wax rings, $5 charge) Residential propane tanks ($5 charge) Electronic equipment: Comput- ers, printers, mouse, keyboards, fax machines, cellular phones, and scanners. Computer monitors will be collected for $10 each. p Television sets with 36 inch or smaller screens and encased in plastic - $15 charge. Television sets with larger than 36 inch screens, wood console, sets encased in wood, and big screen TV sets - $20 charge. Where do your recycled items go? Your recyclable paper, cardboard and aluminum, tin, glass and plastic bottles and jars are processed, bundled and sold to manufacturing plants around the Northwest and all over the world. Recycled paper and cardboard are turned into everyday useful items like boxes, tissue paper and newspaper. Half of all American-made polyester carpet is made from recycled plastic bottles! Recycled plastic bottles are also made into many other products, including T-shirts, fleece clothing, toys and, of course, new bottles. Aluminum cans are used to make cars, appliances and new cans—and fast! Manufacturers can make a new can out of a recycled aluminum can in as little as 90 days! (Source: Washington State Recycling Association "Hot Tips') Here's a Bright Idea: Recycling Fluorescent Light Bulbs Until July 18, 2005, Tukwila residents can bring their spent fluorescent light bulbs, including compact fluorescent bulbs and straight bulbs, to any Seattle Lighting store and all Bartell Drug stores. There is a 50Q fee per bulb for the recycling ser- vice, and in return you'll get four coupons for 50Q off the purchase price of new compact fluorescent bulbs. Why Recycle? Using fluorescent lights saves money and reduces the amount of energy that needs to be produced by power plants. However, they contain small amounts of mercury, so they need to be recycled properly. Fluorescent lights are safe to use in your home and mercury is not released when in use. All products that contain mercury should not be thrown in the garbage, so please recycle these products properly. Locations Seattle Lighting, 300 Andover Park West , Tukwila – 206-575-6224 Bartell Drugs, 14277 Tukwila International Boulevard, Tukwila – 206-431-9639 APRIL 2005 11 CITY DIRECTORY TUKWILA CITY HALL 6200 Southcenter Boulevard Hours: Monday—Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm Telephone: 206-433-1800 Fax number: 206-433-1833 TTY number: 206-248-2933 Website: http://wwwci.tukwila.wa.us E-mail: tukwila@ci.tukwila.wa.us TUKWILA CITY COUNCIL Joe H. Duffle (beeper #) 206-994-7229 Joan Hernandez 206-248-0260 Pam Carter 206-244-0558 Jim Haggerton 206 -244-7846 Pamela Linder, Pres. 206-439-2473 Dennis Robertson 206-242-6373 Dave Fenton 206-246-4980 Lucy Lauterbach, Analyst 206-433-1834 Council Message Line 206-431-3652 CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS 7:00Pm in Council Chambers Regular Meetings 1st/3rd Mondays Work Meetings 2nd/4th Mondays Agenda Info Line 206-431-3656 CITY OFFICES Mayor Steve Mullet 206-433-1805 Rhonda Berry, City Admin 206-433-1851 Municipal Court 206-433-1840 Human Services 206-433-7180 Economic Development 206-433-1832 Tourism/Marketing 206-575-2489 Finance Department Kevin Fuhrer, Director 206-433-1838 Fire Department Nick Olivas, Chief 206-575-4404 Dept. of Community Development Steven Lancaster, Director206-431-3670 Code Enforcement 206-431-3682 Parks/Recreation Department Bruce Fletcher, Director 206-7672342 Police Department Chief 206-433-1808 Public Works Department Jim Morrow, Director 206-433-0179 Dept. of Administrative Services Viki Jessop, Director 206-433-1831 City Clerk's Office 206-433-1800 Personnel 206-433-1831 City Job Line 206-433-1828 Emergency Fire, Police 911 TUKWILA COMMUNITY CENTER 12424 - 42nd Avenue South Recreation Division 206-768-2822 Senior Center/Services 206-7672323 TUKWILA CITY POOL 4414 S 144th Street 206-267-2350 Foster Golf Links 13500 Interurban Avenue South Pro Shop 206-242-4221 Restaurant 206-241-5784 THE HAZELNUT is a bimonthly newsletter published by the City of Tukwila and written by City staff. Editing/production: Stacia Norris Free citizenship classes in Tukwila You're invited to an informational meeting about citizenship classes to be offered in Tukwila. OPEN HOUSE Thursday, May 26 — 6:30pm Foster High School Library 4242 South 144th Street, Tukwila The classes will be free for Tukwila residents. Financial assistance for the citizen- ship application may be available for some low-income applicants living in Tuk- wila. For more information call Lucy at 206-433-1834. Spring Cleaning returns: make a trip to the dump! It's time again to demonstrate your neighborhood pride. Make your home — and our community — more livable by taking advantage of this opportunity to get rid of useless clutter in the garage, junk on the patio, trash around the yard... whatever your mess, the City of Tukwila is proud to help its citizens make their neighbor- hoods cleaner by providing a FREE COUPON or ONE TRIP to the dump. Free disposal passes for Tukwila residents will be available May 16-27, at the City Clerk's office in City Hall. City residents (not landlords) may claim one pass per household, with proof of residence (driver's license or recent utility bill with Tukwila address) AND the coupon on the back of this Hazelnut newsletter. Be- tween May 20-30, items may be taken to the Bow lake Transfer Station (18800 Orillia Road S., at S. 188th and I-5). Dump pass for transfer station is applicable to privately -licensed vehicles only (no contractor waste accepted). Regular restric- tions apply regarding what the transfer station will and will not accept. Disposal passes will be good for 1 load of 2 tons or less; residents will be billed charges for disposals in excess of that amount, as well as extra fees for appliance recycling not covered by this coupon. Don't forget to check out the Special Recycling Event on May 21 (see page 11). NOTE THESE DATES: Coupon pick-up, May 16-27 ONLY Coupon in effect, May 20-30 ONLY r COUPON Bring this coupon — with mailing label intact — to City Hall for your FREE transfer station pass. This offer is for our RESIDENTIAL community only. This coupon must be exchanged for a pass during regular City Hall hours. Print your name here: THE HAZELNUT City of Tukwila 6200 Southcenter Blvd. Tukwila, WA 98188 Postmaster: If named addressee has moved, deliver to current resident. PRESORT STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID SEATTLE, WA PERMIT NO. 12698 To help us correct addresses or eliminate duplicates, please call 206-433-1800.