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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1991-06 Hazelnut Newsletter - Volume 12 No. 2THE HAZELNUT JUNE 1991 A Quarterly Publication of the City of Tukwila Volume 12, Number 2 Survey of citizen opinions completed A report detailing the results of a telephone interview survey with 400 residents of Tukwila has been completed and is available for review at City Hall, the Tukwila Community Center and the Foster and Tukwila Libraries. In general, the survey results show that Tukwila citizens are satisfied with local government services, but want to see more focus on resolving traffic, growth, street, sidewalk and crime problems. Residents make full use of the recreational facilities offered by the City, including parks, trails, the Community Center and the Foster Golf Links. The levels of interest in improving both the library services and the services and facilities of the Tukwila Community Center were also gauged. The City of Tukwila contracted with Carolyn Browne Associates, a Seattle -based marketing research and community involvement firm, to obtain information about public attitudes toward City issues and plans. In early May, 400 heads of households, living within the Tukwila City Limits, were contacted and completed a 10-12 minute interview. The survey indicated that The Hazelnut is by far the single greatest source of information for Tukwila City issues. Just over half (54%) of those surveyed said they recalled hearing or reading about some City issue in the six months prior to being surveyed, and of those who were aware of City issues, more mentioned The Hazelnut as their basis of information than any other source. Other major sources of City information are word-of-mouth, flyers and brochures published for different City departments, the Seattle Times, the Seattle P -I and the Highline Times. General Attitudes Toward City and City Services Environmental concerns are the issues most frequently recalled by Tukwila citizens, including the Sensitive Areas Ordinance (SAO) and related wetlands issues, wastewater management and recycling. Overall, about half of those surveyed rate the `quality of life" in Tukwila as better or superior to other cities in which they have lived. The major problems Tukwila citizens want to see addressed include traffic, growth, streets/road improvements/maintenance, crime, and drug and alcohol problems. Police and Fire are given the highest quality ratings of seven departments named in the survey. Citizens are generally satisfied with Parks and Recreation and library services. The greatest sources of citizen dissatisfaction relate to problems with Public Works, including streets, sidewalks and drainage problems; some are also concerned about growth and planning problems associated with the Department of Community Development. Only about half of Tukwila citizens have any knowledge about Social and health services provided by the City, but of those who do most believe the services offered are at least satisfactory. Some highlights... Citizen survey Page 1 Mayor's message Page 1 Library options Page 2 Council activities Page 3 Election information Page 3 (continued on page 2) Police news Page 4 Sister City visit Page 4 Human services Page 5 Public Works projects „Page 6 Recycling program Page 7 City directory Page 8 MAYOR'S MESSAGE A little personal history... ;,. • 04 - The year was "•Theyearwas 1972. My wife Karen and Iwere searching for a home to buy. I was teaching in the Kent School District and Karen was work- ing at the University of Washington, and we determined that a place called Tukwila was exactly in-between our two jobs. We found a house on 59th Street and were told by the neighbors that Tukwila "wasn't a bad place to live". We bought the house, and I told Karen that if she didn't like it, we could find a better house later on. We learned that our house had been built and previously lived in by a former Tukwila City Councilman named August Thies. We soon became acquainted with our neighbors and started attending asmall church on top of the hill. Notinmywildestimagination did I dream that this house would become our home and that I would become so active in our newfound community. While recuperating from a broken collarbone one Monday night in 1973, I took a walk around the neighborhood and made a great discovery in an old two -room schoolhouse that was then being called City Hall: a City Council meeting was taking place. It re- minded me of what I knew about a New England town meeting: everyone was in- volved — the councilmen, attorneys, Mayor, citizens and others doing business with the City. It was better than Monday night foot- ball! To me, it was simply exciting, and I found myself returning on following Mondays. After attending several meetings I was ap- pointed to a citizen ad hoc committee by Mayor Pro Tem Jon Sterling. I soon thought of myself as a political "expert". In retrospect, I probably thought I was smarter than the sitting Council and would make better deci- (continued on back page) Citizen Survey (continued) In addition to obtaining general information about public attitudes, there were two major focuses in the survey: response to possible improvements in library services and the Tuk- wila Community Center. Library Services — Two-thirds of those sur- veyed had visited a public library within a year prior to the survey. Most of these library users had been to one of the two libraries within the City of Tukwila (43% to Foster and 33% to Tukwila); other libraries used by a significant number of Tukwila library users include Burien, Valley View and Seattle branches. Longer hours (especially in the evenings), more books and a larger facility are the most frequently mentioned improvements wanted at the Tukwila libraries. Library services which are most important to Tukwila citizens are access to materials from other libraries and having the library close to home. Compared with non-users, library users tend to be younger, more likely to be in a household with three or more people, and are four times more likely to live in a household with chil- dren. Compared with homeowners, Tukwila renters are slightly more likely to be library users. Community Center— Eight out of ten Tuk- wila citizens visited at least one Tukwila City recreational facility in the year prior to being surveyed. Tukwila parks and trails are espe- cially well -utilized. Over one-quarter of the survey respondents had visited the Tukwila Community Center. Most of the Community Center users say that are somewhat or very satisfied its programs and facilities. The most important consider- ations for locating a community center are accessibility and a central location. Just under half of those surveyed agreed that the City needs more open space and park area. When asked if they believe Tukwila citizens will vote for a bond issue for a new community center, a new library or more open space and parklands, people are divided in their opin- ions: 38% said yes to a community center, 39% believe people will vote for a new library, and 46% said a bond issue for open space would be approved; however, one-third (32%) believe that voters would not approve a bond issue for any of these. Mayor Gary VanDusen commented that he is pleased with the general positive tone of the survey results, but he added that the survey indicates several areas where City administra- tion and the City Council can make some significant improvements in City services to respond to the concerns of citizens. An executive summary of the Tukwila Survey may be picked up at City Hall. The detailed survey report is available for citizen review at City Hall, the Tukwila Community Center, and the Tukwila and Foster Libraries. City examines options for future library services As you may know, the City contracts with the King County Library System (KCLS) to provide library services to Tukwila residents. Compliance with state guidelines which call for property tax to be used as a basis for a county -wide library system led the KCLS Board of Directors to seek equalization with all contract cities. The City was notified that the contract formulas of 10c per $1,000 of assessed valuation would no longer be the basis for future calculations. Because of Tukwila's sizable assessed valuation per capita, the cost for library services under the new formula will rise from the 1990 rate of $105,000 to over $1,000,000 per year in 1995. A study was commissioned in 1990 by the cities of Tukwila, Mercer Island, Kent, Medina and Clyde Hill. The comprehensive report from this study was presented to the Tukwila City Council in June of 1990. To complement the findings of that study, City staff reviewed many additional sources of information, including: the City of Kirkland's Library Service Alternatives Study; interviews with various officials of surrounding cities; results from library surveys conducted by the Foster and Tukwila Friends groups; a telephone survey of Tukwila residents by Carolyn Browne and Associates; and public meetings held by the Tukwila Library Advisory Board (see related article), to name a few. The City Administration will make presentations to Council committees during June 1991. Concurrently, the Tukwila Library Advisory Board is conducting its own research and will make recommendations to the Mayor and City Council. Additional public hearings will be held to set a time frame for selecting the City's best option. The options currently being considered are annexing to KCLS; continuing to contract; or building an independent Municipal Library System. More information concerning this issue will be forthcoming in future editions of The Hazelnut. 2 "Excellence in Action" shows Based on comments and letters received by the Mayor's Office, it seems that "Excellence in Action" has become more than just a con- cept at City Hall —it is a way of life. In this issue of The Hazelnut we are highlighting stories that indicate a sense of partnership between City employees and the public they serve. Recently, eighth graders at Showalter Middle School studied local government in their U.S. History class, and career preparedness in their "It's Your Future" class. In conjunction with those studies, City employees volunteered their time to speak on topics of interest to the students. Doug Micheau (Public Works Coor- dinator) taught a full day of classes on Tukwila City government; and Rhonda Berry (Assistant to the City Administrator), Lynn Devoir (Recreation Superintendent) and Al Frank (Recreation Supervisor) spoke on careers in City government. Many of the students were surprised to learn of the variety of positions and training required for local government, and — who knows — maybe we'll be seeing some of them as our leaders of tomorrow. Members of the Tukwila Fire Department were a big hit at Cascade Elementary School! At the request of the Fire Prevention Office, Lt. Marty Grisham and his crew talked to the preschool group about the importance of not playing with matches, and even donned full turnout gear to show the students how a firefighter looks when fighting a fire. This was done in an effort to prevent possible fear of "the fire monster" if a child were to encounter one of these firefighters in a real life situation. The students sent a wonderful scrapbook to the firefighters containing personalized mes- sages from each student stating what was memorable to him or her. These are but two examples of the ongoing alliance between the City government and its community. We will continue to provide the best service possible and live up to Tukwila's reputation as a good place to live and work. THE HAZELNUT Dear Citizens: +-sere is the schedule of events for our Tukwila Days "Passport to Cock of the events will feature country from around the world. 1991 a different When you attend an event, you will receive a passport or a stamp for your passport. At our community festival on Saturday, 31.41y 13, you can enter a drawing if you have attended at least two events. We've got some great prizes for you. J hope that you and your family will attend our Tt kwilaDays activities. Ourstaf f has planned something for everyone! Remember, this event is especially planned for you, our community members. -Hope to see. you there! Adios, Sayonara, Ciao, G'day, Later, dude! Gary L. VanD 4sen Mayor Each Tukwila Days event will feature the theme of a different country and by the last event we will have eleven different country themes. Passports will be given to all participants, which they can get stamped with the various country themes. If your passport has at least two stamps, your passport is eligible for prize draw- ings on Saturday, July 13th. SCHEDULE OF EVENTS ±- 3LitLy 5, 6c -d7 Tukwila Days Invitational Softball Tournament The fourth annual invitational tournament will again be held at the Fort Dent softball complex. The 32 -team, B and B/C major USSSA event will raise proceeds to help the Foster Booster Club Scholar- ship Fund. Please contact Al Kier, 242-4087, for further information. The theme country for this event will be Canada. 3LAtL\I 6 D.A.R.E. Dash The Fifth Annual D.A.R.E. Dash (10K run, 3K run or walk) is scheduled for Saturday, July 6th, at Bicen- tennial Park. Registration fees are $5.00 for age 19 and under, and $10.00 for 20 years and over. There are both men's and women's divisions including various age categories. Day of race registration will begin at 8:00 a.m. Start of race is 9:30 a.m. The race is sponsored by the City of Tukwila and the Tukwila Rotary Club. All proceeds go to area drug education programs. During this event, we will be celebrating and hon- oring the country of Africa, so bring your official "Tukwila Days" passport and join us. Schedule of Events Tukwila Days '91 CD mi' C eo.� m 5 5 g t 4 t 8 0 r o v 46 o ›A 0 DNF.)a Ihi .008 ACah y c 1q8§4-680 > o b ay 151. ,r1 �, co v '� o h m H v or) ›-, g E. L' W O f r, CI A E amu" .9. ,7' G o >,b -. a •� • 7 G 51. w� • :II- eV <6� E ��0o0w.m,s 4E�'!a�gyE So>-(o� GY3O)d = L '8-I OO•y. 1 0 XGgy> Peanut Butter and Jam Concert You bring the lunch, the music's on us! Ett I 0 ~ t 0 --I G GA.211 E O o• ▪ y , • G .•-; 0i.. 8 s gu 0 . • - o0 BMW • 0 0 w w af. co w E 3 8O'•w co • 2'0,-ig y g a.4• 44• 0w>. 8 "Best of the Boot Hunt" Tukwila Days Senior Picnic g v a iz g gab 8 u Ts � ffi. v2ss •0o 0 N 0maCU 0) v� g •5 .o t G N U o v Tennis Tournament cr) h g Tukwila Days Parade Family Pool Party Kid's Field Day Tukwila Days '91 Schedule of Events COMMUNITY FESTIVAL (continued) RECYCLING ACTIVITIES ReCreate Celebrate the start of Tukwila's residential recy- cling program by creating wearable art with recyclables! Assisted by Mudite Clever of Recreate, the whole family will enjoy making and wearing fanciful one -of -a -kind visors, helmets, headdresses, hats and headbands from unique recyclable mate- rials. Fashion Show Strut your stuff! Join in a very special fashion show to help introduce Tukwila's residential recycling program. You'll be right in fashion as you model those fabulous, fanciful hats and headwear you've just made with recyclables from ReCreate. See you on stage! Recycling Entertainer/ Entertaining Recycler Come and see the Amazing Amana as he demon- strates the magic of recycling! This high-energy performer will entertain you with a super -special show featuring music, juggling and magic. Using an environmental theme, the Amazing Amana will provide a lively and fun introduction to Tukwila's residential recycling program. More Recycling Goodies To further welcome recycling to Tukwila, we'll display samples of the new recycling and yard waste containers, and will answer your questions on Tukwila's program. King County Master Recy- cler Composters will be on hand to field queries about making yard waste work for you. We'll also have a worm box and other informative and fun displays about recycling and reducing waste in the items you purchase and use. Printed on recycle Participating Organizations and Agencies Bellevue Repertory Theatre Craig Cook Entertainment Duwamish Improvement Club Foster Golf Links and Restaurant Foster High School Foster/Tukwila Presbyterian Church Jack in the Box Restaurant King County Natural Resources and Park Division Larry's Markets Puget Sound Bank Riverton Heights Exxon South Central Advisory Committee South Central Pool South Central School District #406 Southcenter Red Robin Southcenter Rotary SW King County Chamber of Commerce Tukwila Arts Commission Tukwila City Council Tukwila Department of Community Development Tukwila Elementary School Tukwila Fire Department Tukwila Fire Department Explorers Tukwila Friends of the Library Tukwila Historical Society Tukwila Human Services Tukwila Library Board Tukwila Merchants Softball Team Tukwila Parks and Recreation Tukwila Parks Commission Tukwila Police Department Tukwila Public Works Department Tukwila Senior Citizens Program Tukwila Sister City Committee Winners Restaurant Mayor Gary L. Van Dusen City Administrator John McFarland Parks/Recreation Director Don R. Williams City Council Joe Duffie Allan Ekberg Joan Hernandez Steve Lawrence Clarence Moriwaki Wally Rants Dennis Robertson, President Parks Commission Becky Pendleton Reid, Chair Hubert Crawley Stephen Ghorley Bob Merkle Roger Baker Tukwila Days Staff Community Center Staff Council president update on activities and accomplishments We are now halfway through the 1991 work year, and I would like to provide an update on the City Council's activities. Back in January, the Council decided to concentrate on a few high-priority issues and — even more impor- tantly — to set schedules and work the hours necessary to meet those schedules. We also decided that we (and you) wanted the Council to emphasize issues that affect the quality of life in our City. First, we concentrated on finishing the ordi- nances (laws) that had been originated in previous years. The list included the Sensitive Areas Ordinance, a Land Altering Ordinance, new Housing Standards, new Multi -Family Housing Standards, and a Recycling Ordinance. We felt that these items, if completed, would go a long way towards helping to protect and improve the quality of life we enjoy in our City. Now, halfway through the year, I am proud to report we have completed the Sen- sitive Area Ordinance, Land Altering Ordi- nance, new Housing Standards, and the Recy- cling Ordinance. The Multi -Family Standards are still in the works, but we expect them to be completed by fall. We have taken on another group of tasks which are a little different, perhaps harder to define. These involve controversial or costly issues for the City. The easiest of these was a review of the City -funded Residential Street Improvement Policy started years ago in"old" Tukwila. Should it continue as in the past, or be modified to reduce the cost to the City? We decided to continue the funding, because the undergroundingof power lines is an important improvement that beautifies our residential areas, and the construction of sidewalks en- courages us all to walk, meet and talk to our neighbors. The library issue and the Community Center issue are the two most difficult items to de- cide, and we are still working on them. Li- braries have always had a special role in our country, and we want to be sure not to rush into any decisions that would damage that standing. Choosing the size, site and funding for a Community Center will also involve tradeoffs, and we want to ensure that everyone's opinion be heard. There will be many public hearings and meetings on both of these issues in the coming months, and we hope that you will participate. The Council has also completed work on many other matters, such the "Pedestrian Paths Program" which expends over a million dollars to make our streets, such as 42nd Avenue, safer for us and our children to walk along. I would like to close by saying that I am very proud of the Council's work this year. We are only part-time legislators, but we love this City and have worked very hard to protect and improve it. — Dennis Robertson Election time for City offices draws near 1991's election season will soon be in full swing beginning with the official filing period for elective offices, July 22nd though July 26th. The office of the Mayor, as well as three Tukwila City Council seats — currently held by Dennis Robertson, Clarence Moriwaki, and Joan Hernandez — will be up for election this year. All offices are for a term of four years and will expire December 31, 1995. Persons wishing to run for office must be registered voters and have resided in the City of Tukwila for at least one year prior to the date of filing. The general election will be held on Tuesday, November 5, 1991. All candidates are required to file an Affidavit of Candidacy and pay the applicable filing fee at the time of filing. The filing fee for each position is based upon one percent of the annual salary. For the office of Mayor, the fee is $177; for each councilmember, the fee is $48. Candidate Declaration forms are available at the City Clerk's office, but the completed forms must be filed in person with King County Records and Elections no later than 4:30 p.m. on Friday, July 26th. For further information you may contact the City Clerk's office at 433-1800 or King County Records and Elections at 296-1565. JUNE 1991 Are you a registered voter? If you are a United States citizen, a legal resident of the State of Washington, and will be eighteen or older by the date of the election, you are qualified to register to vote in the upcoming fall elections. This year the primary elec- tion will be held on Tuesday, Septem- ber 17th; the general election will follow on Tuesday, November 5th. You may register to vote at any time, but you must be registered at least 30 days prior to the election in which you wish to vote. If you plan to vote in the primary election this fall, you must be registered by August 17th. For the general election, the final day to regis- ter is October 5th. You must register in person before a county auditor, city or town clerk or deputy registrar. You may register at Tukwila City Hall, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. If you are disabled and unable to leave home, contact your county auditor to make special ar- rangements to register. If you have questions regarding your registration, contact King County Records and Elections at 296-1565 or Tukwila City Hall at 433-1800. Exercise your right to vote! Ordinance becomes a reality After two years of work by citizens, the Tuk- wila Planning Commission and the Tukwila City Council, the Council finally adopted the Sensitive Areas Ordinance at their meeting of June 10th. The ordinance attempts to protect the environment by limiting development of wetlands, streams and steep hillsides. Thanks to all who contributed to the effort creating this important legislation. It is available for pickup at the City Clerk's office at City Hall. Tukwila offers reduced rates The City has reduced rates for qualifying Seniors or permanently disabled persons who currently receive a water/sewer bill or a storm and surface water billing from the City. To qualify for this reduction on your bill(s), you must be 62 years of age or older, or permanently disabled (with written proof), and have an annual household income of $14,000 or less. On the water/sewer billing, an owner or renter residing at the property address can apply. The storm and surface water rate reduction applies only to the owner who resides at the property address and only one parcel number can receive the reduced rate. The reduced rates are one-half the regular billing rates. Contact 433-1849 if you have any further questions. 3 Policing Tukwila - A service update With the annexations of Fire District No. 1, Foster, Riverton, Thorndyke, and Cascade View behind us. we at the Police Department thought the community may be interested in a progress report. The increase in size has generated increased numbers in many areas; statistics comparing 1988 to 1991 follow. Tukwila is a unique community, long identi fied as the crossroads of South King County. The transportation and commercial corridors that intersect in our community invite com- mercial development. The Police Depart- ment is challenged with the needs of a non- residential population that dramatically im- pacts the statistical profile of policing this City. Comparatively speaking, reported crime in our community is typically reflective of a city with a residential population of 35,000+. Growth and development keep the Police Department in transition. We've significantly expanded our patrol and traffic units by grow- ing from two patrol districts to five. Recruit- ing, hiring and training such a large number of new officers has been a challenge; we're pleased to report our new men and women in uniform are making excellent progress. Due to the increase in serious crime, we've also expanded the major crimes unit and the unit confronting prostitution, narcotics, and gam- bling. Throughout this growth, we hold dear to the Tukwila philosophy of "Excellence in Action". We've expanded our crime preven- tion and D.A.R.E. programs and hope to an- nounce a new community education program soon. Internally we've begun several signifi- cant training programs for staff and officers, expanded the use of computers, and upgraded our equipment. Organizationally, our department needs to experience some additional developmental growth before we're totally caught up with annexation. But throughout this period, officers have maintained an average response to emergency calls of just over 4 minutes and a non -emergency response average of under 15 minutes. If there are ways we can better serve you, please let us know at 433-1808. Gang Graffiti eradication program begins Gang -type graffiti has started to show up around the City recently. The best way to fight this problem is to get it off as soon as it goes up. With support and donated paint from Farwest Paints, the Police Department will soon be starting a graffiti eradication program to assist citizens and businesses if needed. If you find graffiti in your neighborhood, call Officers Tom Kilburg or Brendan Kerin im- mediately at 433-1808 so the incident can be documented and assistance can be given. Time to dash for vaR Attention runners, walkers and D.A.R.E. supporters! Bicentennial Park is the place you should be on July 6th at 9:00 AM for Tukwila's Annual D.A.R.E. Dash. Tukwila and Southcenter Rotary Clubs are again putting on the event that promises to have the best T- shirts yet, plus drawings for prizes, including merchant gift certificates from area stores and a grand prize drawing of a trip to Victoria, B.C. All money raised goes to support Tukwila's D.A.R.E. program in the South Central School District. T-shirtswillbe awarded to all entrants on race day. Contact Officers Brendan Kerin, Tom Kilburg or Lori Rydeen for more infor- mation at 433-1808. Free dead bolts and smoke alarms again available The Tukwila Police Department has received its grant money to install free dead bolts and smoke alarms to qualifying Tukwila residents with moderate and low incomes. If you have already called and were put on a waiting list, you will be contacted soon. The total grant is approximately $4,300, and it will probably go fast based on last year's response. Installation is on a first-come, first-served basis. Examples of qualifying income: a family of two making less than $26,550 yearly; or a family of four making less than $33,200 yearly. If you have not yet called and would like to see if you qualify or need more information, call Officers Tom Kilburg or Brendan Kerin at 433-1808. World-class travellers take in the sights! Tukwila delegation enjoys visit to Sister City in Japan A twelve-year international friendship was renewed in March when a delegation from the Tukwila community visited our Sister City of Ikawa, Japan. Ikawa is located in the Tokushima Prefecture on the island of Shikoku. Beginning on March 27th, Tukwila's delega- tion visited Japan for 14 days, spending four days in Ikawa, then going on to visit Kyoto, Kobe, Kamakura and Tokyo. While in Ikawa, our citizens enjoyed "home stays" with their Japanese host families. It has been the tradition that when the Ikawa visi- tors come to Tukwila, they stay in host family homes also. While in Ikawa we visited many sites including a meeting with the Lieutenant Governor, historic vine bridge, cultural and natural history museum, high school, Bud- dhist temple, and City Council meeting with a gift exchange and a formal banquet. Visitors were also treated to traditional Japanese home - cooked meals and visits to local shops. The term "Sister City" has a new meaning for all those who participated in this special visit. It was a fantastic trip, highlighted by the warmth and friendliness of the Japanese people. As a citizen you may wonder how you can participate in these cultural and friendship exchanges. The Sister Cities Committee is a group of energetic volunteers who coordinate and organize the visitations and tours. The City provides committee funding; however, costs to host visitors and to visit Japan is paid for by the participant. If you'd like more information on how to participate, please call the City of Tukwila at 433-1850. RIVER TRAILS INFORMATIONAL MEETING King County Parks and the City of Tukwila continue to plan for additional Duwamish/Green River trail development. At the City Council's July 1 meeting, information will be presented about the trail from the 1-405 area north to the Seattle city limits. County and Cty Staff will present conceptual plans for the trail. Citizens are invited to listen and present ideas at this 7:00 p.m. meeting. 4 THE HAZELNUT 1988 (actual) 1991 (projected) Population 4,760 14,631 Police Officers 30 57 Police Calls 12,064 34,000 Serious Crime 2,010 3,500 Traffic Accidents 673 850 Criminal Arrests 2,034 4,000 Tukwila is a unique community, long identi fied as the crossroads of South King County. The transportation and commercial corridors that intersect in our community invite com- mercial development. The Police Depart- ment is challenged with the needs of a non- residential population that dramatically im- pacts the statistical profile of policing this City. Comparatively speaking, reported crime in our community is typically reflective of a city with a residential population of 35,000+. Growth and development keep the Police Department in transition. We've significantly expanded our patrol and traffic units by grow- ing from two patrol districts to five. Recruit- ing, hiring and training such a large number of new officers has been a challenge; we're pleased to report our new men and women in uniform are making excellent progress. Due to the increase in serious crime, we've also expanded the major crimes unit and the unit confronting prostitution, narcotics, and gam- bling. Throughout this growth, we hold dear to the Tukwila philosophy of "Excellence in Action". We've expanded our crime preven- tion and D.A.R.E. programs and hope to an- nounce a new community education program soon. Internally we've begun several signifi- cant training programs for staff and officers, expanded the use of computers, and upgraded our equipment. Organizationally, our department needs to experience some additional developmental growth before we're totally caught up with annexation. But throughout this period, officers have maintained an average response to emergency calls of just over 4 minutes and a non -emergency response average of under 15 minutes. If there are ways we can better serve you, please let us know at 433-1808. Gang Graffiti eradication program begins Gang -type graffiti has started to show up around the City recently. The best way to fight this problem is to get it off as soon as it goes up. With support and donated paint from Farwest Paints, the Police Department will soon be starting a graffiti eradication program to assist citizens and businesses if needed. If you find graffiti in your neighborhood, call Officers Tom Kilburg or Brendan Kerin im- mediately at 433-1808 so the incident can be documented and assistance can be given. Time to dash for vaR Attention runners, walkers and D.A.R.E. supporters! Bicentennial Park is the place you should be on July 6th at 9:00 AM for Tukwila's Annual D.A.R.E. Dash. Tukwila and Southcenter Rotary Clubs are again putting on the event that promises to have the best T- shirts yet, plus drawings for prizes, including merchant gift certificates from area stores and a grand prize drawing of a trip to Victoria, B.C. All money raised goes to support Tukwila's D.A.R.E. program in the South Central School District. T-shirtswillbe awarded to all entrants on race day. Contact Officers Brendan Kerin, Tom Kilburg or Lori Rydeen for more infor- mation at 433-1808. Free dead bolts and smoke alarms again available The Tukwila Police Department has received its grant money to install free dead bolts and smoke alarms to qualifying Tukwila residents with moderate and low incomes. If you have already called and were put on a waiting list, you will be contacted soon. The total grant is approximately $4,300, and it will probably go fast based on last year's response. Installation is on a first-come, first-served basis. Examples of qualifying income: a family of two making less than $26,550 yearly; or a family of four making less than $33,200 yearly. If you have not yet called and would like to see if you qualify or need more information, call Officers Tom Kilburg or Brendan Kerin at 433-1808. World-class travellers take in the sights! Tukwila delegation enjoys visit to Sister City in Japan A twelve-year international friendship was renewed in March when a delegation from the Tukwila community visited our Sister City of Ikawa, Japan. Ikawa is located in the Tokushima Prefecture on the island of Shikoku. Beginning on March 27th, Tukwila's delega- tion visited Japan for 14 days, spending four days in Ikawa, then going on to visit Kyoto, Kobe, Kamakura and Tokyo. While in Ikawa, our citizens enjoyed "home stays" with their Japanese host families. It has been the tradition that when the Ikawa visi- tors come to Tukwila, they stay in host family homes also. While in Ikawa we visited many sites including a meeting with the Lieutenant Governor, historic vine bridge, cultural and natural history museum, high school, Bud- dhist temple, and City Council meeting with a gift exchange and a formal banquet. Visitors were also treated to traditional Japanese home - cooked meals and visits to local shops. The term "Sister City" has a new meaning for all those who participated in this special visit. It was a fantastic trip, highlighted by the warmth and friendliness of the Japanese people. As a citizen you may wonder how you can participate in these cultural and friendship exchanges. The Sister Cities Committee is a group of energetic volunteers who coordinate and organize the visitations and tours. The City provides committee funding; however, costs to host visitors and to visit Japan is paid for by the participant. If you'd like more information on how to participate, please call the City of Tukwila at 433-1850. RIVER TRAILS INFORMATIONAL MEETING King County Parks and the City of Tukwila continue to plan for additional Duwamish/Green River trail development. At the City Council's July 1 meeting, information will be presented about the trail from the 1-405 area north to the Seattle city limits. County and Cty Staff will present conceptual plans for the trail. Citizens are invited to listen and present ideas at this 7:00 p.m. meeting. 4 THE HAZELNUT City's 1991 Human Services Program is underway Since the last edition of The Hazelnut, the City has hired a Human Services Coordinator, and new contracts with human service providers have begun. We have expanded our financial support for contracted services over last year's levels, and now help fund services to address awide variety of needs, including those listed below. Victim Assistance Services - A 24-hour crisis line, counseling, advocacy, information and referral, and emergency safehomes are available through two agencies: The Domestic Abuse Women's Network (DAWN), and the King County Sexual Assault Resource Center. Seniors and Developmentally Disabled - Services to support these groups include non- medical home care assistance, and development of a volunteer group to provide no -cost chore services to low-income elderly through Catholic Community Services. Also, transportation services are available through the South King County Multi -Service Center Van -Go program. Youth and Family Services - An early childhood education program provides educational, health and nutritional services to 4 -year olds from low income families. Counseling and prevention programs are available both through the school .districts and on an individual basis. A positive parenting class will be offered by Highline West Seattle Mental Health Center in the fall, and we are also supporting an intergenerational program that provides youth with training and neighbor -to -neighbor jobs. Information and Referral- The City has access to the Crisis Clinic's computerized database of human services. Now running in the Police Department, it will be soon be available through the Human Services office. Residents may also use the information and referral services of the South King County Child and Family Resource and Referral program for child care information. Housing- We are working with the YWCA of Seattle/King County to assist residents with housing issues. Health Care - We are working with Highline Community Hospital and the Washington Basic Health Care Plan to try to increase residents' access to health care services. The City also supports human services via a Community Development Block Grant Program and monies from our general fund. Together with the contract services, our aim is to increase the access to, and availability of, services to Tukwila residents. Over the coming months, City staff will work to educate residents on what programs are available and how to access them. A proposed ordinance will establish a Human Services Advisory Board. The intent of the Advisory Board is to make recommendations to the Mayor regarding human services. Applications for this, as well as other City Boards and Commissions, are available in the Mayor's Office between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Interested persons should submit applications for consideration as soon as possible. For more information on Tukwila's Human Services program, call Evelyn Boykan, Human Services Coordinator, at 241-7144, or leave her a message in the Mayor's Office at 433-1850. City golfers benefit from Foster improvements Several projects have been completed at Fos- ter for the enjoyment of local golfers. The City -owned golf course is a self-supporting operation. Greens fees and other revenues have paid for all improvements, as well as the operation of the course. Club house patrons are enjoying a nicer atmo- sphere in the newly remodeled pro shop and lounge, and a new kitchen ventilation system has improved the air quality. The City's Building Maintenance Division coordinated the project. JUNE 1991 The 17th fairway has been reshaped with over 7,000 cubic yards of dirt contoured to help eliminate the wintertime flooding. A drainage pump system will help drain the collected water to the Duwamish River. New grass tees have been built for holes number 4, 7 and 15. The new grass is growing and later this year the tees will be put into operation. The Public Works engineering staff has man- aged these projects for the Parks and Recre- ation Department. Golf Manager Marty O'Brien says these improvements have been good for the course and hopes citizens will stop by and enjoy the changes. Neighborhood parks add enhancements this summer Two major park projects will be completed this summer, bringing beneficial recreational facilities to two Tukwila neighborhoods. In the Crestview area, construction of the Phase II addition to Crystal Springs Park is scheduled to begin by early July and should be completed by mid -fall. The new eight -acre park area will front along South 160th street and 51st Avenue South. Improvements to the park include a picnic shelter, swings, parking, restrooms, trails and landscaping. Street and waterline improve- ments will also be made to South 158th and to 51st Avenue South. Golf Landscaping, Inc., was awarded the $655,113 park and street contract in late May. At Foster Park, a new four -acre site fronting on South 139th Street and 53rd Avenue South will be developed into a youth sports field and neighborhood park. Improvements will in- clude a youth baseball field, youth soccer field, parking, play equipment, restroom, walking path, landscaping and picnic shelter. The City plans to advertise for construction bids in early July, and construction is slated to begin in August. Estimated cost for the project is over $400,000. Storm and Surface Water billing information It's been a year and a half now since the first Storm and Surface Water Management (SSWM) bill was sent to Tukwila's residences. To better serve our residents with the billing process, we need you to provide information whenever you sell your property or have an address change for your account. Your account is set up usingyour King County tax parcel number, but the SSWM bill is a utility charge for service and not connected to your property taxes. Hence, when a property is sold we need to be notified in writing as to the name of the new owner. We have no other way of knowing that this property has been sold; King County or your title company doesn't automatically know that you have a SSWM account with the City. So, please add your City of Tukwila SSWM bill to the list of companies like Puget Power, your water/sewer, and gas billings that you must notify when moving. It will save you from being billed in error and help the system run smoother for all of our residents. 5 Improvements are coming your way through Public Works/Parks capital construction program The Public Works Department is looking forward to a very busy summer as several major and minor projects move to the construction phase. Large projects scheduled for construction this season include: • Klickitat/53rd/S. 160th - Street improvements project • Interurban Ave. (42nd -52nd) - Street improvements project • Fostoria Storm Drain - Drainage improvements; S. 133rd -134th • Green River Levee Improvements - Raising levee along river • Crystal Springs Park Phase II - Park improvements project • SR 181/S. 180th - Intersection and bridge improvements • 1991 Overlay/Ped Path Program - Street re -surfacing program • Foster Park - Park improvements project Minor construction projects include: • S. 150th/Macadam Road- Street improvement project • S. 178th - Safety and intersection improvements • S. 124th/50th Place S. - Street improvements • Southcenter Blvd./I-405/I-5 - Intersection/pedestrian improvements • Railroad Crossing Repairs - Six crossings in business district • Southcenter Blvd./68th Ave. S. - New signal and ped crossings • Golf Course Tees & Greens - Completion of '90 project • Boeing Access Road Bridge Deck - Repair of bridge surface • Andover Park W./Baker Blvd. - Signal and bus pullouts The design and construction of public improvements represents the culmination of a lengthy process of planning and scheduling. The process begins with the development of comprehensive plans for each functional area of the City (i.e., Arterial Streets, Sewer, Water, etc.). These plans are updated periodically; this fall updated drafts of the Sewer, Water, and Storm Water Comprehensive Plans will be pre- sented to City Council for review and adoption. Once adopted, the projects identified in these comprehensive plans can be included in the five year Capital Improvements Plan and scheduled for future design and construction. Public comments can be presented at hearings which will be held prior to the adoption of each plan, so watch your City Council's agenda for more information. Although not scheduled for construction in 1991, Public Works Staff are devoting a great deal of time to managing the design of some noteworthy projects, which will be constructed in upcoming seasons; among these are: • Southcenter Blvd. Extension - From 68th Ave. S. to Grady Way • 40th Ave. S. & 42nd Ave. - Improvement to entire length • E. Marginal Way - Boeing Access Road to north City limits • Pacific Hwy. - Boeing Access Road to south City limits • S. 160th St. - 42nd Ave. S. to 51st Ave. S. (residential) Construction of new Tee #4 at TukWlla's Foster Golf Links 6 Before... Night repairs on Boeing Access Road Bridge over railroad tracks; this bridge deck is among Tukwila's summer street overlay projects. City streets to receive facelifts and "ped paths" Every year the City Council allocates funds to continue maintenance of the miles of streets throughout the City. Of all the maintenance performed, the most significant is the installation of a new surface on the existing asphalt (known as "overlay"). This year, along with the normal overlay program, a number of streets will also receive improved shoulder areas to accommodate pedestrian travel. These "ped paths" will serve as an interim measure to facilitate safe travel along roads which are likely to be widened later. When the street is improved, street crews will be able to build upon these ped paths witout tearing up expensive sidewalks, curbs, and gutters. The following is a list of those overlay segments and ped paths to be completed during this construction season: 1991 Overlay Program • Southcenter Parkway (S. 180th St. - S. 168th St.) • Tukwila Parkway (I-5 off -ramp - 68th Ave.) ❖ Tukwila Parkway (Andover Park E. - Andover Park W.) ❖ 42nd Ave. S. (Duwamish Bridge - S. 124th St.) :• Andover Park E. (Minkler - north about 800 ft) ❖ Interurban Pl. and S. 119th St in Allentown ❖ S. 104th St. (S. 102nd St. - E. Marginal Way) ❖ S. 139th St. (Pacific Hwy - 42nd Ave. S.) •r S. 140th St. (Pacific Hwy - 42nd Ave. S.) • S. 144th St. (Pacific Hwy - Macadam Road) ❖ S. 149th St. (Interurban - west about 500 ft) ❖ 54th Ave. S. & Slade Way (S. 166th St. - past Silverview) ❖ 40th Ave. S. (E. Marginal south for about 800 feet) • Ryan Way (MLK Way - 47th Ave. S.) ❖ 32nd Ave. S. (S. 133rd St. - S. 130th St.) ❖ 50th Ave. S. (S. 124th St. north about 100 feet - dirt road) :• S. 124th St. (E. Marginal west for about 300 feet) :• 33rd Pl. S. (S. 130th St. south about 400 feet) ❖ Interurban/Southcenter Blvd. southbound right turn lane 1991 Ped Path Program ❖ Interurban Ped Path (42nd Ave. S. - E. Marginal) ❖ 42nd Ave. S. Ped Path (S. 139th St. - E. Marginal) ❖ 42nd Ave. S. Ped Path (SR 518 - S. 139th St.) ❖ 51st Ave. S. Ped Path (S. 154th St. - S. 144th St.) ❖ S. 146th St. Ped Path (Military Rd. - Pacific Hwy) • S. 150th St. Ped Path (Pacific Hwy - 42nd Ave. S.) ❖ S. 152nd St. Ped Path (Pacific Hwy - 42nd Ave. S.) ❖ 53rd Ave. S. Ped Path (S. 144th St. - S. 137th St.) :• 32nd Ave. S. Ped Path (S. 137th St. - S. 135th St.) :• S. 135th St. Ped Path (32nd Ave. S. - 35th Ave. S.) 7HE HAZELNUT Recycling program comes to Tukwila Tukwila intends to reduce the amount of trash it generates by 50% in 1995. In order to help reach this goal, Tukwila has developed a residential recycling program. Tukwila's ga- rage haulers have submitted to the State new rates which encourage recycling. If these rates are approved, Tukwila's recycling pro- gram will begin in August. More than half of what we throw into the garbage can be recycled. For example, each person goes through about 120 pounds of newsprint — or about one tree — in a year. By multiplying that number by nearly 15,000 Tukwila residents, you can see that recycling means saving a small forest and a corner of a landfill. If you consider the total amount of other paper, metal and plastics we consume, it's clear that recycling is good for our envi- ronment. Recycling can also save money. Separating recyclables from garbage means less garbage. With less garbage, you can switch to a smaller, cheaper can size and keep costs down. By slowing the rate which landfills are used up, homeowners and apartment residents can keep to a minimum rate increases for garbage collection and transfer station dumping. Here's what Tukwila's residential recycling program includes. Single -Family Residential Curbside recycling will include home collec- tion of mixed paper, cardboard, newspaper, bottles, cans and plastic pop or liquor bottles. Every Tukwila household may sign up for curbside collection, whether currently on garbage service or not. Nick Raffo, Inc., and SeaTac Disposal will provide the actual recycling collection for residents. Each company will use its own recycling system, and will also handle sign- ups, garbage and recycling billing, and cus- tomer service issues. Single-family residents have the following choices for recycling: * If you're currently on garbage collection service and want curbside recycling, you can sign up using a card which your hauler will soon send you. * If you haul your own garbage but want home pick-up of your recyclables, you may contact the garbage hauler for your neigh- borhood to sign-up and pay for curbside recycling pick-up only. ,JUNE 1991 * If you do not choose to have curbside recycling service, you may take your recyclables to drop sites or buy-back cen- ters. The Bow Lake transfer station is scheduled to start accepting recyclables in September, so you may bring recyclables when you bring your garbage. Apartments and Condominiums Beginning in August, all apartment and con- dominium units should offer recycling services to their residents. Paper, cardboard, glass bottles, cans and plastic liquor and soda bottles will be collected. To help you learn how to recycle in your building, there will be meet- ings with owners and managers, a flyer for residents, and an ongoing volunteer network developed at each site. Single -Family Yard Waste Once the recycling program begins in August, yard waste can no longer be mixed with garbage. Your hauler will not collect any garbage cans with yard waste. For many people, keeping yard waste out of the garbage will mean finding a new way to dispose of grass clippings and branches. Tuk- wila residents have the following alternatives: * You may sign up for yard waste collection service from your neighborhood garbage hauler and pay a separate monthly fee. Yardwaste collection is offered whether or not you have garbage service. * You may compost at home and turn yard debris into a useful, no -cost soil additive. For more information about composting, or to order a handy composting bin for $8.75, call the King County composting line at 296-4466. * You may also take yard waste to the Factoria or South Seattle transfer stations for a fee. In addition, King County operates a mobile collection site at the old Boulevard Park School (S. 128th and 20th Avenue S.) on the 2nd weekend of each month from April through October between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Recycling kick-off and upcoming events To commemorate the start of Tukwila's recy- cling program, there will be special recycling - related entertainment and activities on July 13th at Tukwila Days. We'll also have Master Recycler Composters on hand to answer your questions and to show samples of recycling containers and other informative displays. In the coming months, the City will provide ongoing tips and information about residential recycling and composting, as well as methods to reduce the amount of waste and garbage you produce. As residential recycling progresses, the City of Tukwila will tackle commercial recycling and waste reduction. If you have questions or want further details about this recycling program, call Rebecca Fox, Recycling Coordinator, at 431-3683. Wastemobile provides pickup at Southcenter Have you been wondering how to dispose of those household wastes which you know shouldn't go into your garbage can (and ulti- mately into a landfill)? Well, we've got the answer for you! King County's Wastemobile will come to Southcenter for two weeks following this schedule: Thursday, Aug. 2912 noon to 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 30 12 noon to 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 31 10 a.m. to S p.m. Thursday, Sept. 5 12 noon to 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 6 12 noon to 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 7 10 a.m. to S p.m. The Wastemobile will collect the following materials from residents: ✓ pesticides ✓ oil-based paints ✓ thinners and solvents ✓ hobby chemicals ✓ cleaning products ✓ motor oil ✓ latex paint There is no charge for the Wastemobile's collection services. Please do not bring ex- plosives or waste from businesses. 7 CITY DIRECTORY TUKWILA CITY HALL 6200 Southcenter Boulevard 433-1800 Business hours: Monday - Friday 8:30 am to 5:00 pm TUKWILA CITY COUNCIL Dennis Robertson, President Joe H. Du,07e Allan Ekberg Joan Hernandez Steve Lawrence Clarence Moriwaki John "Wally" Rants CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS 7:00 p.m. in Council Chambers Regular Meeting ..1 st/3rd Mondays Workshops 2nd/4th Mondays CITY OFFICES Mayor Gary L. VanDusen 433-1805 City Administrator John McFarland 433-1832 Finance Department Alan Doerschel, Director.433-1835 Fire Department Tom Keefe, Chief 575-4404 Dept. of Community Development Rick Beeler, Director 431-3680 Parks/Recreation Department Don Williams, Director433-1843 Police Department Ron Waldner, Chief 433-1808 Public Works Department Ross Earnst, Director 433-0179 Dept. of Administrative Services Viki Witschger, Director433-1831 City Clerk's Office 433-1800 Municipal Court 433-1840 Personnel 433-1831 City Job Line 433-1828 Emergency Fire, Police, Aid Car 911 TUKWILA COMMUNITY CENTER 4101 South 131st Street Recreation Division 243-5198 Senior Center & Services 433-1857 Human Services 241-7144 .__ZOSTER GOLF LINKS 13500 Interurban Avenue South ro Shop 242-4221 Restaurant 241-5784 THE HAZELNUT is a community newsletter published quarterly by the City of Tukwila and written by City staff. Editing/production: Stacia Norris I. Printed on recycled paper Mayor's Message (continued) sions than the incumbents. I have since learned that wasn't the case, and that I some- how become smarter through experience (or maybe age). I have learned over the years that most grassroots activists and legislators are trying to provide for, or make life easier for, their community. I have also learned that any citi- zen who comes before their elected represen- tative body has a legitimate right to be there, no matter the issue. Citizen input into our legislative process has the most profound meaning and impact when it is done in an open meeting and the elected representatives properly listen, contemplate and act on that advice or input. I believe the citizen is the most powerful person in our community, and he or she must continually exercise that power or ultimately lose it. In the summer of 1975 I was asked to run for City Council against this "scoundrel" named Reid Johansen. (I was told that I would make a better councilman and that he needed re- placing.) Though I defeated Reid that fall, I soon learned that he was a long-time citizen, probably more involved in our community than most, and it became my privilege to ultimately know and learn from him. Reid subsequently returned to the City Council and served many years. To me, Reid repre- sents the many hard-working citizens who find the time to serve on our boards, com- missions and even as elected officials, wanting only to improve our City. I now know full well that our system would fail without their time and effort. I served two terms on the City Council, was then appointed to the final two years of Mayor Frank Todd's second time in office, and subse- quently was elected and served two full terms as your Mayor. It is sometimes difficult for me to comprehend that I have been fully involved with Tukwila City politics since 1973. I would gladly do it again. I can sincerely say that I have enjoyed the political interaction and the many people I have met, both locally and regionally. And a look to the future... Being involved in two decades of growth has been personally rewarding, but the most ex- citing events are yet to come for Tukwila, and I wish I could play a part in the next decade of growth. The City will require strong leader- ship and a Mayor that can devote full time to regional and local issues, management of the staff, and more personal interaction with the City Council. Time commitment on a part- time basis has become the final political hurdle I can no longer overcome. Therefore, I can no longer serve after this term nor attempt to be reelected. The position I have with the Puget Sound Blood Center requires all my manage- ment skill and time. In closing this message, I want to thank all the citizens who have supported me, but — more importantly — I want to thank those citizens who have become active members in the overall political, process. I leave you with a City that is well managed, a staff that takes pride in its work, and most of all with a balanced budget, no large debt, and money in the bank for future projects or a possible future downturn in the economy. The service our citizens receive is on par with or better than any other like City in the country. You receive more police protection, fire protection and public works service be- cause of our unique location and economic situation. I say this, only to warn you that it all could be lost in less than a decade. The demands on our City and our elected officials are increasingly more intricate and difficult. Every conceivable issue will be put before the Mayor and City Council and will require citizens of integrity, with personal communi- cation skills, maturity, knowledge and the ability to compromise, being elected to office. Only you, the electorate, can ensure the future of Tukwila and its prosperity. Gary VanDusen THE HAZELNUT City of Tukwila 6200 Southcenter Boulevard Tukwila, Washington 98188 BULK RATE U.S. POSTAGE PAID TUKWILA, WA PERMIT NO. 12698 To help us correct addresses or eliminate duplicates, call 433-1800.