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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2001-03 Hazelnut Newsletter - Volume 22 No. 2A City of Tukwila publication for our residential and business community VOLUME 22, NUMBER 2 MARCH 2001 Temporary Commuter Rail Station scheduled to open soon Monday, March 12th is tentatively scheduled as your first opportunity to ride the Sounder com- muter rail train. Initially, regular service will consist of two trains originating in Tacoma and bound for Seattle each weekday morning and returning in the evening. Trains will leave Tukwila Station north- bound at 6:56 and 7:26AM, and southbound at 5:27 and 5:52PM Monday thru Friday. The temporary station is currently under construc- tion at the old Longacres site east of Embassy Suites Hotel on West Valley Highway. The City is working with Sound Transit to get more than a rail platform and a parking lot on Sound Transit's 10.5 -acre site. A permanent station will replace the temporary station within the next three years. Tukwila and Sound Transit are working together to attract tran- sit -oriented development (retail, restaurant, etc.) to the station area. By integrating a permanent station with private development, the community and transit system hope to obtain the greatest possible return on this regional transportation investment. Free automobile and bike parking will be available at the train stop. There are currently three fare zones; Tukwila, Kent and Auburn are in one fare zone. Travel within one zone is $3 per round trip, within two zones is $6 per round trip, and three zones is $8 per round trip. (One way tickets are available at half the roundtrip fares.) Sound Transit's web site provides up-to-date details on routes, stops, schedules, start -of -service and fares; you can also read about their special train service for popular events like Mariner games, as well as reliable commuter service during snowy weather. Visit them at http://www.sounder.org or call Sound Transit at 206-398-5000. Preliminary decision moves light rail off Highway 99 On February 8 the Sound Transit Board took a significant step toward reversing its previous decision designating Tukwila International Boule- vard as the route for Link Light Rail. The Board adopted a motion that instead designates the Tukwila Freeway Route as the new "preferred alternative" for light rail. The Freeway Route would run from the Boeing Access Road Station south on elevated tracks along the west side of East Marginal Way, and cross the Duwamish River on a new light rail bridge. The route would pass over and continue on the west side of SR -599 to Interstate 5. The trains would move along the west side of I-5 to SR -518, then head west on the north side of SR -518 to an elevated station located south of 154th Street and east of Tukwila International Boulevard. The unanimous vote of the Sound Transit Board came after months of environmental study and discussions between the City and Sound Transit representatives. The City originally suggested the Tukwila Freeway Route after Sound Transit made it clear Tukwila's preferred route, serving the Southcenter area, would not be approved. (Continued on back page) EARTHQUAKE! The February'WtR YOU READY' 28 earthquake resulted in will int City of Tukwila. While several commercial buildings damage the major damage, the majoritysuffered fairly M City -owned facilities remained fully operational, the City was not severe. tion of the Community Center which suffered a power e as did much of our community. with the excep- tion of (water, sewer e continue to assess damageto our public ingood news is we had few — i id f water lines, bridges, etc.). Y — reported injuries. g � The This was a not -so -gentle reminder of the importance of PREPAREDNESS for EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS rescueESS you and your family. Agencies involved in and relief efforts could easily be overwhelmed in any significant natural disaster. significant major earth The rule of thumb for emergencies suchy as up to 72 hours." is, Be prepared to sustainyourself This means hand Inside you will find a food, water and even shelter. after an earthquake. Tear it out, tips r �d tt what to do before, during and and be ready for the next one. City government doing its part to save energy As you are aware, our state is experiencing an energy crisis. Governor Locke has issued an Executive Order directing all governmental agencies within the State of Washington to immediately curtail electric energy consumption by 10%. Some of the things being done by the City of Tukwila: • All thermostats are being set at a maximum heating temperature of 68° and 76° for cooling. • All lights, computers, copiers, etc., are turned off at the end of the day. • Temperatures on all hot water heaters have been turned down to 120°F. • Turning off lights if space is vacated for more than 15 minutes and using task lighting in lieu of overhead lighting. Compared to the month of February last year, the City's electricity use is down 14% and natural gas is down 20%. We are taking energy conservation seriously and are looking at numerous methods to reduce electrical and natural gas consumption throughout the City of Tukwila. Working together we can avoid power outages or California -style blackouts. Mayoral Musings In the last issue I mentioned a few items in this year's budget and activity plan. They're in the works and will proceed at the lightning pace of a snail that seems to typify some public projects. So while staff is busy getting these projects off the drawing board, it's time to start thinking about next year and what we might do in 2002. One ongoing issue is traffic calming, both on neighborhood roads and through roads that happen to run through our neighborhoods. In the next few months the City will examine different methods to slow down speeds without damaging our response times to emergencies. Look for the traffic enforcement trailer in your neighborhood. If you don't see it and are experiencing speeding problems, call 206-433-1808 to arrange for some monitoring on your street. We will also be looking at an internal bus system that serves Tukwila citizens within our city limits. Such a system would provide affordable links between the hospital, schools, Southcenter, grocery stores, the Sounder commuter rail and our neighborhoods on a regular basis. Another large issue for all of us will be energy. This City will spend a lot of time in 2001 making sure that we have commitments from City Light and Puget Sound Energy to meet our needs for the next 20 years. City Hall, the Community Center, and all our facilities are currently studying ways to cut back on power usage. We have challenged each department to find ways to reduce consumption without compromising safety. I ask that you join us in this energy conservation effort. On a very upbeat note, volunteerism in our community is progressing at a record pace. In 2000 we experienced well in excess of 7,000 hours of volunteer assistance. Our volunteer database contains over 550 names. This is truly a positive indicator of the health of our community. As always, I want to stress the importance of your participation in governing your city. Attending Council and subcommittee meetings, calling on the phone, sending an e-mail or writing us a note is always appreciated. And a visit to City Hall is always an open invitation. maza- Mayor Steve Mullet 2 Tukwila City Council Actions: January, February 2001 Actions: • Elected Joan Hernandez Council President for 2001. • Made numerous appointments to various City Boards & Commissions. Adopted: • Ordinance #1951 - renewing a six- month moratorium on the filing of development permits or approvals on public parking lots, park -and ride lots or garages. • Ordinance #1952 - renewing a mora- torium on certain land uses relating to shelters, community residential treatment facilities, community treat- ment centers for prisoners, transi- tional homes for prisoners, pre-re- lease centers, limited security deten- tion facilities, and similar uses not addressed within the City's Comp Plan or Zoning Code. • Ordinance #1953 - Amending the 1995 Comprehensive Land Use Plan. • Ordinance #1954 - Amending the City's 1995 Zoning Code. • Resolution #1459 - indicating the City's intent to modify its boundaries and eliminate overlap in the poten- tial annexation area. Approved: • Approved the purchase of park prop- erties for the new Cascade View Park. • Approved the Tukwila Police Offic- ers' Guild Labor Agreement for the period 01/01/01-12/31/03. • Authorized Mayor to sign the Public Works Trust Fund loan agreement for the design of a sanitary sewer system and improvements to the existing water and storm drainage systems in the Foster Point area. THE HAZELNUT CONSERVING • 1 • NERGY More than just a good idea for homeowners... Businesses and building occupants should consider whether implementation of any of these ideas could help reduce energy use in your work area — not just to reduce costs, but also to conserve our valuable resources. Avoid using incandescent lights when possible. Compact fluorescents use 1/3 the energy and last several times longer. If you have incandescent lighting, you conserve energy instantly when the bulb is turned off. For fluorescent lighting, it is recommended to turn the lights off when the area will not be used for at least 15 minutes. Turning fluorescent lighting on and off must be balanced economically with shorten- ing the life of the ballast and lamps. Turn off all lights at night, including task and office lights. Check into scheduling janitorial hours to overlap some working hours. Lowering the total operating hours of a facility can be a great conser- vation measure. Encourage a winter dress code of sweaters and slacks. If staff require extra heat, use radiant electric heaters. Turn the heater off when away from the desk. A 1,500 -watt heater running continuously for 3,000 hours will use $225 at $0.05 per kWh. (Space heaters are also a safety hazard when left on unattended.) Turn off computer monitors or use the low power standby. This will save $31 per year per 19" monitor. Some computers have a sleep component that works with the screen saver modes after 5 minutes or more. Unless your agency updates programs at night, turn off the computer as well as the monitor at the end of the day. Move as far away from windows as possible. Windows draw heat from people in winter making them feel colder. Close blinds when not using a facility to cut down on heat loss. Open blinds for light and warmth on sunny days; in warm weather, close blinds to aid cooling. Have your pop vending machine operator turn off the advertising lighting in the machine. This will save between $50 and $110 per year, depending on your cost of electricity. Make sure the office copier is turned off at night. Large machines can use $100's worth of energy keeping the copier's heaters ready for use. New copiers with Energy Star features of low power standby are the best choice when replacing machines. Be sure the Energy Star features are activated. Fax machines come with power saver modes as well. Set hot water heaters at 120°F. To avoid health risks associated with Legionnaire's Disease, never go below 115° on potable water systems. From the WA State Dept. of General Administration (Facilities Engineering Services) A little effort, a lot of savings It's smart money to know these tips Everyone is reeling from increased energy costs these days. You may have received information about how to save energy in your home. Here are some more ideas that you may not have heard. (Thanks to the MultiService Center's Consumer Home Energy Education Guide.) • Frequently changing your thermostat set- ting uses more energy, because your heater has to work harder. • Shut off thermostats and close doors in rooms not in use. Lower the thermostat on your water heater to 120°. Besides saving energy, you lessen the risk of accidental scalding — especially important with small children in the home. • Fix leaky faucets. One drop per second can waste 2,300 gallons of hot water per year, including the energy to heat it. • Use low -flow showerheads and aerators for the kitchen and bathroom. • Refrigerators use a lot of energy. Keep the door closed as much as possible - don't stand and look inside. Replace gaskets around the door when needed. Close the door on a dollar bill; if you can pull the bill out easily, the gasket may need to be replaced. • Use "long life" bulbs for hard -to -reach places only. They use more energy than standard bulbs. • With your clothes dryer, do not add wet clothes to a par- tially dry load. Use the lowest it heat and shortest time settings for the fabric being dried. Good numbers to know: King County Housing Authority Weatherization program 206-439-3839 Seattle City Light Emergency Low -Income Assistance 206-684-3688 Seattle City Light Project Share . 206-684-0268 Multi Service Center Heat Line .. 253-874-4328 MARCH 2001 3 .. Parks, Golfaud Recreation .,.Happenings Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, Apri114th-10:00AMSHARP/ Tukwila Parks and Recreation will hold its annual Easter Egg Hunt at the Tuk- wila Community Center. Prizes, candy, and a visit from the Easter Bunny will make this an enjoyable event for preschoolers through age 12. This fun event will be held rain or shine, so mark your calendar. A donation of canned food or $1.00 would be appreciated. Spring Break Camp April 16 thru 20 — 6:30AM to 6:00PM Kids will have a blast at our Spring Break Camp! They'll do silly stuff, fun stuff, serious stuff, games, arts and crafts, and even a field trip. (Sorry parents, this is strictly for kids!) Breakfast will be served to children arriving before 7:45Am. Campers must bring a sack lunch, and dress for active play each day. Afternoon snacks will be provided. Pre -registration is required at least one week in advance. (Participants: min. 8, max. 100). For grades K-6. Please call 206-768-2822. Cost: $90 residents, $95 non-residents Location: Tukwila Community Center gtittityAttittittittittityitttittittitt" Al still. trict1y for TecI4... as iti White Pass Ski/Friday Late Nights for Teens af 1911 Snowboard 2 -day Trip At the Friday 8t Saturday, March 30-31 Tukwila Community Center Tv Avo $75 before March 16th, March 23, April 6 and April 27 l 2 $85 on or after March 16th Join us for Open Gym Basketball, Don't let the price fool you! Meet at Racquetball, music, movies, games, imw the Tukwila Community Center at and a special featured activity — all 0 er-AAt 2:30PM and we'll make it to White for $1 with school ID, $2 without! of g Pass for night skiing or snowboarding. 6 -12th graders won't want to miss 0 tWe'll stay one night and wake up out on this great way to spend Fri - 0 early the next morning for a full day day night! Info? Call Meredy at 206- 0 0 on the mountain. Register early, space 768-2822. is limited. Don't miss out on this IV .21:10 great opportunity to show your skills Flashlight Egg Hunt 91/ in the hills! Call Meredy for moreor 11167 information at 206-768-2822. Come shine at the A Tukwila Community Center NEW! Spring Breakiv Friday, April 13 — 9:OOPM SHARP! Overnighter to VICTORIA! Just because it's Friday the 13th 741IA. Spend 3 days of your Spring Break doesn't mean you won't hit the Ow - with other teens in VICTORIA, BC! jackpot at our annual Flashlight Egg 0 This fun -filled trip will depart on Hunt for Teens! Don't miss out on 0 Wednesday, April 18th and return this `eggstravaganza' where 6 -10th i1 Friday, April 20th. In Victoria, teens graders can bring their flashlights will lodge in a youth hostel and visit and hunt for prizes hidden in eggs. some very cool places, including the Teens need to bring a flashlight, a Royal London Wax Museum and bag, and $2 to participate in this more! Fee: $75 per teen. Space is event. 1311 Ait ,09.10 limited to 13 middle or high school 0 students - register now! Call Meredy at 206-768-2822 for more info. Spring Dance Cruise St. Patty's DayDance Monday, April 16 - 5:30-11:OOPM IlA y $12 before April 9, All 447 Friday, March 16 - 8:00-11:OOPM $15 after April 9 46.7 Come wearing green and dance with It's time for another ever -popular 4 your friends at the first-ever St. Patty's Dance Cruise aboard the Argosy Day Dance at the Tukwila Commu- Sightseer. Music, dancing, and pizza 4 131 i0,0 nity Center! Only $3 with school ID, will make this night well worth it or $4 without. For 6th -10th graders with teens from many local cities. only.vIr Bring extra money for beverages Parents: Interested in chaperoning? and group pictures. Register early, VPlease call Meredy at 206-768-2822. space is limited. For more informa- tion, call Meredy at 206-768-2822. IIII ittittitort/tollittittittittittittittitl//r0 e THE HAZELNUT Come take part in the Spring Plant Exchange — FREE! Saturday, April 21 — 1OAM to 1PM Held in the Tukwila Community Center Picnic Shelter What is a plant exchange? If you have many plants of one kind, bring them to the exchange and possibly trade them for another type of plant you don't have. Local gardener June Cappetto Brandner, who has over 29 years experience host- ing such events, will answer questions and help facilitate exchanges. This is a free event with refreshments, friend- ships and fun! Any remaining plants will be given away during the last hour. Parents Night Out Fridays, March 16 and April 27 Community Center — 6:00 to 10:30PM Parents, enjoy an evening out and leave the kids with us! We'll give them dinner and provide them with endless opportunities for fun — art projects, games, movies, a field trip and more! This program is for K -5th graders and pre -registration is required. Give us a call at 206-768-2822. Resident Non-resident One child: $10 $15 Two children: $15 $20 Three children: $20 $25 Adult Softball Leagues Register your Men's or Co -Ed Softball team today to play in the upcoming league. Spots are still available. For more information, contact Dave Johnson at 206-768-2822, or send an e-mail to djohnson@ci.tukwila.wa.us. MARCH 2001 Senior computer class is a big hit The City of Tukwila Senior Adult Program has a new found friendship with students and staff at Showalter Middle School. On January 11, 2001 a partnership began in the Showalter Middle School class of Lee Weissenfels, with 32 seniors being taught computer skills from 10 eager young student teachers. The free program will run through April with the relationship hopefully continuing next fall. This program was the brainchild of the Senior Adult Program Staff, who saw the need for computer training to help bring seniors up to speed with their children and grandchildren. An angel appeared in the person of Lee Weissenfels who wanted to give something back to the Tukwila community and teach young people how to volunteer as well. Tukwila Parks and Recreation would like to thank our young volunteers for their time and dedication: Lakena McQueen, Matthew Hayes, Michael Heacock, Ademir Kicik, Ming Ching, AlbertAvanessov, Rodney McFarland, Brittany Campbell, Denis Avdic-Skopljak, and Sara Hayes. Tukwila seniors enjoy writing family memories "It's a very supportive group of people. Patricia allows us to share our stories with one another, it is very interesting to all of us." — Delores Simpson, current student We're excited about this class! It has been going verywell, according to the reactions from the students in the class who appreciate that you don't have to be a great writer to benefit from all the things the class can offer you. Students are really enjoying sharing stories about some of the memories each of them have from their past. Instructor Patricia Tyllia has created a very comfortable class environment. Think about taking advantage of this experience; you may find it to be a good release for you in many ways. If you would like further information, call the Senior Programs office, 206-768-2822. Mobile Computer Lab Beginning in March, the Tukwila Parks and Recreation Senior Programs will be offering another computer education opportunity sponsored by the King County Library System. The County will bring a mobile computer lab with an instructor on sight to teach three 1-1/2 hour sessions for up to eight students on Thursdays, from 1:00 to 2:30PM. March is already full but we have space left in April and May. If you are interested in this program, please call the Senior Programs Office at 206- 768-2822. This program is FREE. HIT IT OFF!!! Join our COED Softball League 2001 The Senior Program is looking for softball players to once again field a team in the "South King County Co -Ed Softball League". Practices begin in April, to be held at the Tukwila Community Center ball field. League play is kicked off with the pre -season Jamboree. Jeff Murphy is coaching the team and would like to put your name on the roster today! If you'd like to play on the team, call 206-768-2822 for more information. 5 VOLUNTEER! TUKWILA CITIzEN5 REATING OMMUNITY City benefits from nearly 9,000 volunteer hours Over 300 volunteers taking part in City - sponsored projects turned in an out- standing 8,775 hours for the year 2000. The amount of time donated per volun- teer ranges from two hours working in group park projects, to over 100 hours for volunteers serving in City depart- mental volunteer positions. Those serv- ing more than 100 hours include: VOLUNTEER HOURS Jan Tolland 907 Peter Okicich 474 Matthew Steinauer 417 Rebecca Harlan 401 Alice Jones 396 Dottie Sangl 240 Caroline Allis 182 Russ Trader 139 Bob McManus 134 Maria Smith 124 David Patton, Sr. 103 David Patton, Jr. 101 Bridget Allen 101 Annette Gray 100+ Thank you to all the City -sponsored volunteers, as well as persons in all other community volunteer organiza- tions, including the All -City Volunteer Committee, LOVE, Inc., Highway 99 Action Committee, Tukwila Citizen Patrol, Tukwila School District, the Wildlife Habitat Committee, and Tuk- wila neighborhood associations. 6 Volunteer opportunities bloom in spring Plan ahead for Spring opportunities. Here are some volunteer projects for individu- als and groups in April and May. Easter Egg Hunt (April 14): Held at the Tukwila Community Center for pre- school children through age 12. Volun- teers help set up and monitor activities. Earth Day (April 21): Annual clean-up and landscaping of Tukwila Pond Park sponsored by the Park Department. Generally this event attracts several or- ganizations with 30 to 40 volunteers. Wildlife Habitat Fair (May 12): Educa- tional and crafts fair sponsored by the Wildlife Habitat Committee, who teach people how to certify their own back- yard as a wildlife sanctuary. Volunteers help set up and man booths at the Tuk- wila Community Center. Better Business Bureau Seminar for Senior Citizens (May 19): Informative sessions regarding fraud, held at the Tukwila Community Center. Volunteers are needed to help guide attendees and assist with food service. For more information, contact Volun- teer Coordinator Roberta Nelson at 206- 433-7182, or rnelson@ci.tukwila.wa.us Wrapping up spirit of giving This past holiday season Foster High School's Honor Society helped brighten the lives of Tukwila community mem- bers. Each year the City of Tukwila joins with local businesses and community members to collect gifts for less fortu- nate Tukwila residents. These gifts are then wrapped and distributed. This past holiday season, 10 members of the Fos- ter High School Honor Society donated 27 hours to wrap the gifts. Those donating their time were Jelena Berovic, Cheri Brogden, Christine Callo, Jessie Elliot, Mikela Hagberg, Ammara Hun, Rya McLean, Ljubica Popovic, Mirela Tojaga, and Adrian Yorozu. Thank you, Foster Honor Society! Committee names co-chairs Congratulations to Geoffrey Cottrell and Donna West, who were elected the new co-chairs of the Highway 99 Ac- tion Committee for the current year. Both Geoffrey and Donna are long- standing members of the Committee, which is dedicated to making Tukwila International Boulevard (Highway 99) a clean and safe place to live, shop, or operate a business. Donna is also the Committee's "Queen of Trash" for her commitment to sched- uling monthly litter pickups during the past five years. Under her leadership, Committee volunteers have removed more than 7,000 pounds of trash from Tukwila International Boulevard. The Highway 99 Action Committee meets at 7:00PM, the second Tuesday of every month at the Tukwila Commu- nity Center, 12424 -42nd Ave. S. Inter- ested persons are welcome to attend. On -Call Volunteer Program Have you wanted to volunteer, but just can't commit to a regular schedule? Then Tukwila's new On -Call Volunteer Program is just for you! As an on-call volunteer, you will receive periodic phone calls from City employees asking you to help with special projects. The projects generally involve short-term clerical tasks that may be completed either by you working independently or as part of a group. Tasks could include: • copying and assembling materials • making telephone inquiry calls • assisting with large mailings (enve- lope stuffing and address labeling) or a variety of other projects, which can take just a few hours or a few days. You choose which work you want to do. Come join us! For more information, contact Volun- teer Coordinator Roberta Nelson at 206- 433-7182, or rnelson@ci.tukwila.wa.us THE HAZELNUT Cascade View Park is in the City's future Tukwila is proud to announce the future construction of a new park in the Cascade View neighborhood. It will be located on just over 2 acres of land at 37th Avenue South and South 142nd street. For several years the City has recognized the need for a park in this area for citizen enjoyment. The City Council held a neighborhood meeting in June, at which the majority of residents supported development of a park. The Parks Commission has scheduled public meetings to get input from residents regarding possible park amenities. The first meeting will take place: Wednesday, March 14 at 7:OOPM in the Multi -Purpose room at Cascade View Elementary School A second meeting will be held: Wednesday, March 28 at 7:00PM at the Cascade View Park site: 14211- 37th Avenue South The Parks and Recreation Department encourages involvement in the planning process to ensure the development of a safe and functional park for our citizens that will enhance our City for years to come. Park Profile: Golf Et Parks Maintenance The City of Tukwila's Golf and Parks Maintenance crews have a new home. They recently moved into a newly -built, 7,990 -square foot maintenance shop consisting of two offices, a lunch room, a mechanic shop, locker room and equipment storage area. There is an additional 3,000 square feet of outside covered storage, a wash rack and gas pumps. Also located outside are storage bins for sand, beauty bark, crushed rock and a garbage dumpster, plus an area for fertilizer and pesticide storage. Both crews are excited about their new location. They were previously located in the "green house" and shop located on the north end of Foster Golf Links. The new location will help us do a better job for you, our citizens. The address of the Golf & Parks Maintenance Facility is 13900 Interurban Avenue South. Parks phone number is 206-433-7157 and Golf is 206-433-7158. Stop by and check us out! Registering an air quality complaint If you have any concerns related to air quality— such as outdoor smoke, dust or odors — please contact the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency. The Clean Air Agency is responsible for enforcing federal, state and local air quality law and regulations in King, Kitsap, Pierce and Snohomish counties. When a complaint is filed with Puget Sound Clean Air Agency, an inspector is assigned to investigate your complaint. The inspector will contact you to discuss the problem and potential ways to resolve it. The inspector will also determine if the business that is creating air quality problems needs to be registered with the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency. (Only certain businesses are required to be registered.) The inspector will also visit the site to determine if there is any emission of air contaminants. While filing a complaint, please request that the inspector coordinate with you the day and time of the inspection. It is recommended that you meet the inspector on site to address your concerns. Contact the Agency by calling 206-343-8800 or 1-800-552-3565. They are located at 110 Union Street, Suite 500, Seattle WA 98101-2038. More PSCAA information can be obtained from their web site, located at http://www.pscleanair.org Winter brings additional potential for home fires Heating equipment is a leading cause of home fires, second only to cooking. Here's some fire safety tips to help keep you and your family safe during this winter heating season: ✓ Be sure all space heaters and portable space heaters you buy bear the label of an independent testing laboratory (e.g., UL). ✓ Keep all combustibles (newspapers, cloth, furniture, etc.) at least three feet away from stoves, fireplaces, baseboard heaters, portable heaters, and space heaters. ✓ Keep space heaters at least three feet away from walls as well. ✓ Inefficient combustion caused by burning green wood or by the poor design of some wood -burning stoves or fireplaces can produce creosote which coats chimney flues. Creo- sote build-up is the fuel for danger- ous and destructive chimney fires. Keep wood -burning stoves clean and in good working order. Have your chimney inspected at least once a year and cleaned and repaired as often as necessary. ✓ Keep fireplace fires small, and always use a fireplace screen to prevent sparks from flying into the room. Never use a wood -burning stove or fireplace to burn paper or trash; burn- ing fragments can be carried up the chimney where they can ignite creo- sote or land on your roof. ✓ Allow ashes to cool before disposing of them. ✓ Remove ashes in a tightly covered metal container, never boxes or bags. ✓ Have your central -heating system inspected and cleaned once a year or whenever you suspect a problem. For additional information on fire safety and fire prevention, contact the Tuk- wila Fire Prevention Bureau at 206- 575-4407. MARCH 2001 7 COUNCIL CORNER by Joan Hernandez, Council President 2001 Council retreat provides opportunity to concentrate on important City issues The City Council spent the weekend of January 26-28, 2001 at Ravenscroft Inn, a quiet bed and breakfast in Port Townsend, where we focused on our agenda and goals for 2001. With no outside distractions such as television and telephones, we were able to have uninterrupted informal discussions about future growth and improvements in our city, from residential streets to undergrounding, city facilities, economic develop- ment, housing, and human services — we covered a lot of issues that we felt required out attention. Although no formal motions are made and no votes are actually taken at a Council Retreat, we were able to come to consensus on items that we felt needed to be referred to a committee or future council meeting for further action. ZZ Council Email Address tukcounc@ci.tukwila.wa.us Message Line — 206-431-3652 Agenda Info Line — 206-431-3656 The Finance & Safety Committee agreed to take a closer look at one of my ongoing concerns, and that is litter control. The City welcomes everyone's help in addressing this issue. The Council worked hard and may not have always agreed on every issue; however, we came to appreciate the special unique gifts and talents that each of us bring to the table. I am proud to be workingwith these very dedicated elected officials who contribute a great deal of their personal time and energy to represent the citizens of Tukwila. We came back to Tukwila with a sense of pride in our accomplishments and a renewed enthusiasm for the year ahead. Check the City's website at http://www.ci.tukwila.wa.us for future agendas, minutes and public announcements. If you have concerns during the year, we welcome your input under Citizens Comments at each Council meeting, or you may send us email at tukcounc@ci.tukwila.wa.us, or leave us a tele- phone message on the Council's Message Line. Helping wildlife is a full-time job Dorian Tremaine has an interesting life. On one day, Dorian helped a robin that hit a window, a squirrel that crawled into a greasy stove vent, and a red tailed hawk that was down for unknown rea- sons. Dorian rescues wildlife and drives the Sarvey Wildlife Care Center ambu- lance, saying "It is the most challenging and satisfying thing I have ever had the privilege to do." Last spring Dorian volunteered two days a month with "Crazy" Bob Jones, the man who started the ambulance service. It was an interesting ride all spring and summer, rescuing hundreds of helpless baby animals and injured adults. For five years Bob had conducted this service with only a very few days off from the grueling 24/7 schedule. Bob answered some 2,000 wildlife calls for the Seattle Police Department and thousands more from concerned individuals. When Bob was no longer able to continue the res- cue service, Dorian stepped into the driv- ers seat. None of this would be possible were it not for the existence of the Sarvey Wildlife Center in Arlington where all the animals are treated with love and respect. The volunteers and staff at the Center deserve all the credit caring for their wild patients until the time is right to release them. There is a wild animal needing help some- where around Puget Sound almost any time of day. Often a kind person will encounLer a critter injured or orphaned in their neigh- borhood and not know what to do. If the wild (not domestic) animal is alive, please call the number below for instructions on what to do until help is available. Usually when humans and wildlife cross paths, humans never even know they are near. But animals have no one to help them if they are hurt. Often the willingness of caring people to go a little out of their way makes the difference between life and death for an innocent little life. Sarvey Wildlife Ambulance — 206-609-1611 — emergency only Board member is needed The Community -Oriented Policing Citizens Advisory Board (COPCAB) is currently seeking a residential member. The applicant needs to be a current resident of the City of Tukwila, and will start board mem- bership as of April 2001. The COPCAB is an official City board consisting of nine members including residents, business peo- ple, a school representative, and a student. The Board meets monthly with the Chief of Police. It makes recommendations to the Chief on issues of public safety, and pro- motes community policing. If you have questions about this position, please contact Marja Murray, Police Administrative Sec- retary, at 206-433-7175. 8 ". THE HAZELNUT Tukwila hosts the second annual BACKYARD WILDLIFE FAIR Saturday - May 12, 2001 - 10:OOAM to 4:OOPM at the Tukwila Community Center ,.41�.��\ in partnership with the City of Tukwila — Tukwila Parks & Recreation — Tukwila Arts Commission — Tukwila Businesses • Celebrate the achievement of Tukwila becoming the first city in Washington to be certified as a Community Wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation • Talk with experts on gardening, landscape, wildlife, salmon restoration, bee & bats, trees, native plants, composting, recycling and more. • Browse art and craft booths; many with artists in action. • Enjoy unique fair food, refreshments and entertainment • Participate in demonstrations, activities and nature walks on the banks of the Duwamish River • A great Mother's Day outing • Official Washington State International Migratory Bird Day Event A call to Artists, Crafters, Food Vendors 8 Volunteers The Backyard Wildlife Fair will be advertised and promoted by flyers and posters which will be distributed to local retailers, in national and local publications, on television and radio, and with the Fair's web site. Applications and information: 206-767-2342 or email to: tbwfair@hotmail.com Website: http://www.tbwfair.org Tukwila's Arts Commission presents the Rainier Symphony MASTERPIECES SUNDAYS APRIL 22 at 3:OOPM Foster High School Performing Arts Center 4242 South 144th Street, Tukwila // -7137 { -114' // The talented dancers from the Cornish Junior Dance companN will again join the Rainier S 9mphonv9 with a newlN choreo- graphed version of Hoist's ever popular Hol6erg Suite. Shumann Konzertstake, op. 86 for Four Horns ann Orchestra Grieg Holbert Suite Dvorak Symphony No. 7 in D, op. 7o Tickets: Adult/$I2! Senior or Stuient/$7 For more information, please call 206-781-5618 MARCH 2001 Business owners, watch that calendar... the deadline is December 31, 2001 Only nine months to go before all busi- ness signs within the city must be com- pliant with Tukwila's Sign Code. No rooftop signs, no signs taller than the tallest point of the building where the business is located... Discuss your busi- ness signage with a sign specialist at the Department of Community Develop- ment: 206-431-3670. • woo' A3 sow' Al At 9 AS orwo AS A6 �%0 —• i �3 i i The City's sign code and permit applica- tions are now available online at http:/ /www.ci.tukwila.wa.us Reconstruction on the highway coming this summer The reconstruction of Tukwila Interna- tional Boulevard from South 138th to South 152nd Streets is planned to begin this summer. Construction is anticipated to be completed in the fall of 2002. Project improvements include repaving the highway and repair of the existing roadway, new curbs and gutters, side- walks, drainage, street lighting, undergrounding of overhead utilities, bus pullouts and shelters, additional trees and landscaping, and improved pedes- trian crossings. Please contact the Pub- lic Works Department at 206-433-0179 if you have any questions. 9 Mat S Wct () IN Eag'i,aH Sevufccs Human Services Office 206-433-7180 206-433-7181 Crisis Clinic (24-hour Zine) 206-461-3222 Health Department offers valuable information about SIDS The Seattle and King County Public Health Depart- ment is urging parents to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other forms of infant deaths by ensuring safe sleep practices and environments for infants. "SIDS is the major cause of death in babies from one month to one year of age, but we can take measures to reduce the risks", says Dr. Alonzo Plough, Director of Public Health - Seattle and King County. Facts • SIDS is the sudden and unexplained death of an infant under one year of age. • In the year 2000, 19 children died from SIDS in King County. • Most SIDS deaths occur when a baby is between one and four months old. • More boys than girls are victims. • Most deaths occur during the fall, winter and early spring months. • African American and Native American babies die from SIDS at more than twice the rate of other babies. • If your baby is under 12 months old, you can help prevent SIDS, suffocation and strangulation by following these six tips: 1. Place your baby to sleep on his/her back. 2. Babies should sleep on a firm surface. 3. Put your baby to sleep in a safe crib — no missing or broken hardware and slats no more than 2-3/8" apart. 4. Make sure your baby's face and head stay uncovered during sleep. Make sure any blankets used go no higher than the baby's chest. 5. Do not smoke before or after the birth of your baby. 6. Do not let your baby overheat during sleep. From Public Health's website - www.metrokc.gov/health/news/01020601. htm 10 Special Saturday Club provides some needed time, especially for parents of children with disabilities Parents: How about five hours of freedom to do what you want to do? Campfire offers Special Saturday Club, where children — ages 2-12 with disabilities and 2-10 without disabilities — participate in recreational and social activities that are adapted to the abilities and interests of each child. Special Saturday Club activities include independent and social play, crafts, outdoor play, story time, and more. Two adult program managers, trained youth and volunteers staff the Special Saturday Club. Club dates for 2001 at the Tukwila Community Center are: March 17 April 21 May 19 June 16 July 21 September 15 October 20 November 17 December 15 Hours of operation are 10:00AM to 3:00PM. Special Saturday Club is also offered at other sites throughout King County. Program fees are set on a sliding scale based on family income, family size, and number of children attending. Session space is limited; pre -registration is required. Special Sitter Training A Special Sitter Training is scheduled at the Kent Campfire Office. This class takes place on April 16, 18, 24 and 25 from 5:30-7:30PM and at the Tukwila Special Saturday Club April 21st from 9:00AM-4:00PM. All dates must be attended to complete the class. Teens in grades 7 thru 12 can make a big difference in the lives of children with disabilities. The Campfire Boys and Girls Special Sitters program will train teens to care for children with disabilities and their siblings. Once the training is completed, your teen can earn money working at either Campfire's Special Saturday Clubs or summer day camps. The time can also contribute to service learning hours required at school. The class fee is $42 (the teen can opt to work volunteer hours in exchange for training fee). To register or for more information, please call Carrie Lord at 206-461- 8550 x232. Affordable minor repairs available to low-income homeowners Anyone who has ever invited a plumber or electrician into their house knows that their repair bill is going to be expensive - the actual visit alone is costly. Now, low- and moderate - income homeowners can get their minor home repair needs met for $10.00 an hour. Minor repairs include tasks such as clogged sinks, leaky faucets, broken windows, etc. The City of Tukwila works with the Minor Home Repair program from Senior Services of Seattle King County. We use federal Community Development Block Grant funds to help defray the cost of this service. Call 206-727-6210 for information on this program. THE HAZELNUT NOW, while it's fresh in your mind... tear out this page and keep it handy for easy reference. EMERGENCY PREPREDNRS5 SMART PLANNING 15 T14E KRY BEFORE AN EARTHQUAKE — INSPECT YOUR HOME + Go room to room, looking for tall, heavy items (water heater, refrigerator, china cabinets, bookcases, etc.) which could topple; secure them to wall studs. + Move heavy items to lower, securely fastened shelves. + Install clips, latches and other securing devices on cabinet doors. + Bolt down water heaters and all gas appliances. + Remove or isolate flammable materials. + Relocate beds away from Targe windows, if possible. Don't hang heavy items over beds. Securely fasten mirror to dresser or wall. + Make sure that your house is bolted to its foundation. BEFORE AN EARTHQUAKE — PREPARE YOURSELF + Assemble a family emergency kit - first aid, drinking water, regular medications, toiletries, flashlight, radio and batteries, cash, extra pet food, etc.; keep it in a place that will be accessible. + Ask your children's school about their disaster procedures. + Keep propane in your BBQ tank for cooking without power. + Buy portable gas -powered generator for emergency electricity. + Know how to turn off the gas, water and electricity in your home. DURING THE EARTHQUAKE: 1. Stay calm. 2. If you are inside a building, stay there. + Dive under a sturdy table, desk or bed. Choose shelter which will offer an air space if it collapses. If your "furniture -shelter" moves, stay under it and move with it around the room. + Stand in a strong doorway, move to an inner wall or hallway, or brace yourself in an inside comer, away from windows. + Stay away from tall bookcases, high shelves, china cabinets, and other furniture which might slide or topple. Stay away from windows, sliding and shower doors, mirrors and chimneys. + Watch for falling objects (e.g. plaster, bricks, light fixtures). + Grab anything handy (coat, blanket, newspapers, box, etc.) to shield your head and face from failing debris and splintering glass. 3. Do not rush outside. Stairways may be collapsed and exits packed with people. Power for elevators may go out, leaving you stranded. 4. If you are outside, stay there. Move away from high buildings, walls, power poles, fallen power lines, and lamp posts. If possible, move to an open area. If in an urban area, get under a car. 5. If driving, stop away from buildings, bridges, over & underpasses, utility lines, or large trees; stay inside car until the shaking stops. 6. Assume all fallen electrical wires and things they touch are live. AFTER THE EARTHQUAKE: + Call 911 ONLY for serious injuries or life-threatening situations. Do not use phone except for genuine emergencies. + Give first aid to injured people and keep them in a safe place. Do not move the seriously hurt unless there's further danger of injury. + Check for fires, fire hazards and hazardous conditions. Use flash- lights for light. Do not light matches, cigarettes, or turn on electrical switches as they could create sparks and cause an explosion. + Wear heavy shoes to protect feet from broken glass. Keep head and face protected. + Turn off appliances. Check utility lines and appliances for damage. If gas leaks or utility line breakage is suspected, do not use phones or electrical switches. Turn off gas and/or electricity at main valve or circuit breaker, open windows, leave house, report condition to authorities, and return when utility officials say it is safe. + If water Teaks are suspected, shut off water at main valve. You'll have an emergency water supply available in your hot water tank. + Listen to radio for advisories, traffic problems, locations of public shelters, etc. + Do not touch downed power lines or objects they touch. + Clean up spilled potentially harmful household chemicals. + Check to see that sewage lines are intact before flushing toilets. + Check house, roof and chimney for damage. + Open closets and cupboards carefully. + Keep refrigerator and freezer closed as much as possible. Plan to eat refrigerated food first, frozen foods next, and canned foods last. + Practice good sanitation habits, and keep fingers out of mouths to prevent the possibility of infection. + Do not go exploring. Other hazards (fires, floods, landslides) triggered by the earthquake may be occurring. + Be prepared for aftershocks. + Cooperate with public safety officials. Be prepared to evacuate if necessary. For more disaster information: American Red Cross, King County 206-323-2345 King County Office of Emergency Management 206-296-3830 For a brochure on putting together survival kits for home, car and work, or a brochure on making a disaster plan, send a request with a stamped, legal -size, self-addressed envelope to: The Red Cross 1900 - 25th Avenue South Seattle, WA 98144 CITY DIRECTORY TUKWILA CITY HALL 6200 Southcenter Boulevard Hours: Mon. thru Fri., 8:3OAM -5:OOPM Telephone: 206-433-1800 Fax number: 206-433-1833 TTY number: 206-248-2933 Website: http://www.cLtukwila.wa.us E-mail: tulcwila@cLtukwila.wa.us TUKWILA CITY COUNCIL Joan Hernandez, Pres. 206-248-0260 Pam Carter 206-244-0558 Joe H. Duffle (beeper #) 206-994-7229 Dave Fenton 206-246-4980 Jim Haggerton 206-244-7846 Pamela Linder 206-439-2473 Richard Simpson 206-243-7715 Lucy Lauterbach, Analyst206-433-1834 Council Message Line 206-431-3652 CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS 7:OOPM in Council Chambers Regular Mtgs 1 st/3rd Mondays Work Mtgs 2nd/4th Mondays Agenda Info Line 206-431-3656 CITY OFFICES Mayor Steve Mullet 206-433-1805 City Administrator John McFarland 206-433-1832 Municipal Court 206-433-1840 Human Services 206-433-7180 Finance Department Alan Doerschel, Dir 206-433-1835 Tourism/Marketing206-575-2489 Fire Department Tom Keefe, Chief 206-575-4404 Dept. of Community Development Steven Lancaster, Dir. 206-431-3680 Code Enforcement 206-431-3682 Parks/Recreation Department Bruce Fletcher, Dir . 206-767-2342 Police Department Keith Haines, Chief 206-433-1808 Public Works Department Jim Morrow, Dir 206-433-0179 Dept. of Administrative Services VikiJessop, Dir 206-433-1831 City Clerk's Office 206-433-1800 Personnel 206-433-1831 City Job Line 206-433-1828 Emergency Fire, Police, Aid Car 911 TUKWILA COMMUNITY CENTER 12424 - 42nd Avenue South Recreation Division .... 206-768-2822 Senior Center/Services 206-768-2822 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 Alternate Light Rail route (continued from page 1) Tukwila's residents, businesses and elected officials have long opposed routing light rail along Tukwila International Boulevard (Highway 99). Light rail is inconsistent with community plans for revitalizing the highway corridor, and for creating the mixed-use "Tukwila Village" neighborhood center around the intersection of T.I.B. and South 144th Street. Community impacts associated with the Tukwila Freeway Route will be significantly lower. The City is committed to ensuring that Sound Transit provides adequate mitigation for all negative impacts. Mayor Steve Mullet attributed Tukwila's progress toward keeping light rail off the highway to a strongly united community and City Council, and to the support of our representatives in Washington DC, Olympia and at the King County Courthouse. Singled out were Congressman Adam Smith, Representative Julia Patterson and County Executive Ron Simms for their efforts on behalf of Tukwila. Tukwila and Sound Transit representatives identified a number of cost-saving ideas intended to allow the Tukwila Freeway Route to be built, without increasing the overall "Sound Move" budget for regional transit improvements. Sound Transit Board members indicated in their motion the importance of "neutral budget impact." A final decision by Sound Transit concerning the Freeway Route is expected sometime this spring. Contact Community Development Director Steve Lancaster at 206-431-3670 for more information or status updates on light rail in Tukwila. Mark your calendar now for a special holiday event! Monday, May 28, 2001— 10:OOAM to 5:OOPM Memorial Day at the Museum of Flight: A Salute to Veterans Sponsored by the City of Tukwila Enjoy a patriotic, fun -filled Memorial Day holiday at the Museum of Flight. This year we'll be celebrating a famous group of veterans, the American Volunteer Group, better known as the Flying Tigers. These brave volunteers defended China and Burma from Japanese airpower before America entered WWII. AVG President Dick Rossi will be our keynote speaker. The Museum will also feature walkthrough tours of its B-29, which is currently in restoration; docent -led tours of other military aircraft in the Museum's collection; hands-on kid/family workshops; outdoor barbecue; live music, and — if all goes according to plan — a static display of the historic P-40 aircraft flown by the AVG. Please look for your free admission coupon and more information about Memorial Day at the Museum of Hight in the next issue of the Hazelnut. 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.