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HomeMy WebLinkAboutSWP273272(2) ����� ��- `` L� 1( ' D KING COUNTY King County King Conservation District FLOOD CONTROL D I S T R. I C T A Regional Discussion* June 12, 2012 4:00 —6:00 pm Mercer Island Community and Event Center 8236 SE 24th Street,Mercer Island,WA 98040 (driving directions attached) The King Conservation District (KCD), King County Flood Control District (FCD) and King County are committed to working together with all cities and WRIA Salmon Recovery Forums over the next three months on a collaborative approach to: • Ensure that the 2012 Cooperative Watershed Management (WRIA) Grant Program (through the FCD) continues in an efficient and effective manner. • Support the KCD regarding funds collected prior to 2012 that have not already been committed • Discuss current and future revenue options and priorities for programs administered by the King Conservation District Meeting Purpose—Provide a forum for regional partners to talk about the 2012 Cooperative Watershed Management Grant Program and to begin collaborative discussions to address changes in KCD revenues and programs* Agenda I. Welcome—Julia Patterson, Fred Jarrett and Sara Hemphill (5 minutes) II. Where are we today and how did we get here?—Fred Jarrett, King County Deputy Executive (15 minutes) III. FCD Cooperative Watershed Management(WRIA) Grant Program—Julia Patterson, Chairperson, King County Flood Control District(15 minutes) IV. KCD Revenues and Work Programs—Sara Hemphill, KCD Executive Director(15 minutes) • Goals and Intentions: Pre-2012 Fund Balances; Status of 2012 Funds; Options for 2013 Revenues (Rates and Charges); 2013 Work Program Priorities • Questions and Answers—Everyone KING COUNTY King County King Conservation District 8 D OODTC_.ONTROT V. Small Group Exercise - Future KCD regional programs—Joanna Richey, Assistant Director, King County Water and Land Resources Division, Department of Natural Resources and Parks (40 minutes) [Note—each attendee will be assigned to a specific table based on geographic clusters; each table will have a facilitator] Questions to Guide Small Group Discussions on Collaborative Approach: A. How can KCD better support the jurisdictions' efforts to connect/collaborate with landowners to achieve optimal community-based stewardship of natural resources? B. What are your priorities/concerns for rural and urban resource lands: agriculture (farms/pea patches/farmers markets); forest (urban forestry/small rural forests) and marine shorelines? C. What are the best ways to continue this dialogue with you? VI. Report Out Highlights—by table group (20 minutes) Note: full meeting notes will be distributed to all attendees since there will not be time for all tables to report out all information VII. Next Steps— Sara Hemphill, KCD (10 minutes) A. Volunteers to work with KCD and KCD Advisory Committee to develop a Collaborative Approach by July 15, 2012 (due August 1, 2012) to King County Council as part of KCD 2013 and beyond Program of Work and Budget B. Public Hearings for KCD 2013 Work Program and System of Rates and Charges Adjourn Light Refreshments will be served If you have not done so already, please RSVP to Kris.Nielsengkin cg ounty_gov or ava.souzagkin cg d org By close of business Friday June 8, 2012 � �3 1( " KING COUNTY Kitt Count King Conservation District on stric FLOOD ONTROL g Y Ki C D I S T R I C T *Background The current ILA, 2009-2012, between King County (County) and King Conservation District (KCD) expires at the end of this year, 2012. Several events, including the recent approval by the King County Flood Control District(FCD) for a new cooperative watershed management grant program in 2012, have occurred over the past two years prompting changes to the District's funding approach and grant program as it contemplates its next Program of Work and Budget. The recent Mason County v. Cary Washington Supreme Court Decision invalidated the Mason County Conservation District special assessment. While it is not certain what impact this Mason County ruling may have on the King Conservation District assessment; it has been deemed prudent to hold the 2012 assessment funds in escrow until there's resolution of the situation. To preserve the KCD and its programs and to allow the KCD the opportunity to develop and propose a new funding system of rates and charges and a new Program of Work and Budget for 2013 and beyond, the KCD may need to use some of the pre-2012 funds that would have been allocated to jurisdictional and/or WRA grant programs during 2012. Because uncertainty continues to surround the final disposition of both the 2012 and future public funding sources for District programs and grants and because new opportunities and possibilities have presented themselves, the District seeks to develop, in collaboration with its partners and stakeholders, a new Collaborative Plan and Program of Work for pre & post 2012 KCD funds. Driving Directions to the Mercer Island Community and Event Center 8236 SE 24th Street Mercer Island, WA 98040 (206) 275-7609 I-90 Eastbound from Seattle: take exit#7A, 77th Ave SE. Turn left across the freeway. At stop sign turn right onto North Mercer Way. Go one long block to the stop light. Go straight though the stop light. Turn left onto 81 st Avenue SE. Turn right onto SE 24th Street. The Community Center is two blocks up on your left. I-90 Westbound from Bellevue: take exit#7, Island Crest Way. Continue straight ahead. Turn right on 81 st Avenue SE. Turn right on SE 24th Street. The Community Center is two blocks up on your left. KING COUNTY King County King Conservation District D OODTCONTROT _------ Mercm Island Community& Event Center Luther 16urbonk St Pork North Mercer Way Q �k SE 26th t 90 � fry ww� A Timeline of Events Impacting King Conservation District Funding Supreme Court Ruling Mason v. Care Final Hearing on 2010-2012 Special y Implementation of Hammond Hammond Proposed Hammond Proposed Settlement (if certified) Assessment Funding Settlement Pre-lim Settlement ILA Term Expires Hearing February June July ug Sept-NovL� ecember Draft System of Rate or Charge 2013 Final ILA SOW/$ Rate or 2012 ILA Amendment & *King CD 2012 Funds Held in Escrow Charge Collaborative Agreement System 2013 Draft ILA (SOW/$) * Pre-2012 un-awarded funds held Published until ongoing funding is secured and legal challenges quelled Public Hearings :a Follow June 26tn and July 23rd Ronald Straka From: Ronald Straka Sent: Wednesday, June 13, 2012 3:35 PM To: Gregg A. Zimmerman Cc: Lys L. Hornsby; Chip Vincent; Suzanne Dale Estey; Jay B Covington Subject: RE: June 12 Regional Discussion on funding for the King Conservation District Attachments: KC KCD FCD June 12 12 final Agenda.docx The following is a summary of the Regional discussion on funding for the King Conservation District that you request to provide to Councilman Zwicker: • The Renton representatives that attended the meeting were Jay Covington,Terry Flatley and Ron Straka • The primary presenters were King County Councilmember Julia Patterson, King County Deputy Executive Fred Jerrett and King Conservation District (KCD) Executive Director Sara Hemphill. • The Mason County v. Cary Washington Supreme Court decision that invalidated the KCD method of assessment ($10/parcel/year)I was overviewed. • The King County Flood Control District (FCD)agreement to fund in habitat project in WRIA 8, WRIA 9 and the Snolqualmie Valley in 2012 was discussed. There will be further discussion if the FCD should continue to provide funding for the habitat project in the future as part of the FCD budget discussions and after the KCD has determined the services and their new revenue source using rates and charges instead of an assessment. • The KCD revenues collected prior to 2012 is available for the WRIA and Jurisdictional grant projects that are funded by the KCD . • The KCD 2012 revenues have been placed in escrow and the amount available will be dependent upon the settlement of the Hammond lawsuit, but there will be some funding remaining for Jurisdictional grants, KCD operations and to fund the development of the new rates and charges method for KCD revenue generation. • The rates and charges method of revenue is similar to a Utility service charge and the KCD will be having public hearings on the proposed rates and charges on June 26`h and July 23rd. FCS Group is the consultant that is preparing the KCD rates and charges method of revenue generation. • The KCD will not have set-amounts of grant funding designated for return to member jurisdictions in the future, they will have a open competitive grant program instead. • The KCD rates and charges and KCD scope of work need to be finalized by early August 2012 to be included in a new ILA with King County to be adopted by the County Council as part of the 2013 budget process. The KCD is working under a very constrained schedule to get new funding method approved. • The purpose of the meeting was for the KCD to get ideas on the types of services and programs that the KCD could include in their scope of work and use to determine the level of funding needed to be generated from the new rates and charges method for revenue collection that is being developed. • A small group exercise was conducted at each table to list out the services that the KCD could provide in the future. • Meeting notes will be developed and distributed to include all of the ideas, but some of the ideas that were identified include the following: 1. Provide 1-on-1 work with land owners to increase stewardship and land management practices to protect water quality, riparian buffers and forestry. 2. Be a resource and organizer of volunteer efforts to do stewardship projects like planting projects. 3. Provide services to farmers(agricultural and hobby) to help them maintain operations, use best farm practices and comply with environmental requirements 4. Don't duplicate services that are already being provided and provide more transparency of KCD programs and operations 5. increase public awareness of the services provided by the KCD 6. Assist jurisdictions in developing Urban Forestry programs and stewardship programs • Attached is a copy of the meeting agenda that includes some background information 1 If additional information is needed please contact me. Thanks Ron Straka, P.E. Surface Water Utility Engineering Supervisor x7248 From: Gregg A. Zimmerman Sent: Monday, June 11, 2012 11:41 AM To: Ronald Straka Cc: Lys L. Hornsby; Chip Vincent; Suzanne Dale Estey Subject: June 12 Regional Discussion on funding for the King Conservation District Ron, as I understand it,you and Jay intend to go to the Tuesday June 12 meeting at Mercer Island on the funding for the King Conservation District. During the briefing Chip, Suzanne and I gave to Councilman Zwicker to prepare for the upcoming SCA PIC Committee meeting on June 13, Rich asked that we provide him with a very brief(bullet point) summary of what comes out of the meeting. It will probably be discussed at the PIC meeting. Rich did not think he needs any of us to attend the PIC, but does want to know what comes out of the Mercer Island meeting. Thanks! Gregg z Ak- - _ - Z prcOS C,-, ALL)ws � lMIK "' l 6-let ,u- Aer a �s -C,� L Az D -� -- ------ ca l�•�t, C�.I�.a,►-�.� �e,d rye�-_�d��,w�c� s ��E � � ----- :, - --- -s-- - -�-�'^ ' 44, a King County Dow Constantine King County Executive 401 Fifth Avenue, Suite 800 Seattle, WA 98104 206-296-9600 Fax 206-296-0194 TTY Relay: 711 www.kingcounty.gov June 1, 2012 Dear King County Mayors: I write to you today to share information about changes affecting regional funding for salmon recovery projects and King Conservation District (KCD) natural resource conservation programs. I also want to invite each of you to an important regional discussion being hosted by King County, the King County Flood Control District(FCD), and the King Conservation District(KCD)at Mercer Island Community Center on June 12 from 4 p.m.to 6 pm. The upcoming sunset of the current King Conservation District(KCD)assessment and the outcome of a recent court decision in Mason County have created both a challenge and an opportunity to evaluate to how our region funds salmon recovery projects and the important services and grant programs that the KCD provides. I encourage all of us to work together to support sustainable options for funding salmon recovery projects and King Conservation District programs for natural resource conservation and regional agriculture. For more than 12 years, KCD programs have been primarily funded by a special assessment that, under state RCW 89.08.400, is authorized by the Metropolitan-King County Council. The current assessment was authorized in 2010 for a period of three years(2010-2012) and is set to expire on December 31, 2012. As part of establishing the current assessment, King County and the KCD signed a three year interlocal cooperative agreement(ILA)that set out mutual expectations regarding the partnership between the two entities, member jurisdictions, and work program priorities. This ILA will also expire at the end of this year. For the last several months, King County and the KCD have been working together with cities and other stakeholders to develop a proposal for a new assessment and work program for 2013 and future years. However, in the past few months, significant changes have taken place. We must shift approaches in order to plan for these important programs in the months and years ahead. The recent Mason County v. Cary Washington Supreme Court Decision invalidated the Mason County Conservation District special assessment. It is unclear what, if any, impact the Mason County ruling may have on KCD assessments. However, given the legal uncertainties, it appears that the KCD's 2012 assessments should not be spent at this time. The KCD concurs with this approach and has already taken steps to place the 2012 assessments being June 1, 2012 Page 2 collected into a separate escrow account. In March of this year, in response to the Mason County case,the state Legislature and the Governor approved ESHB 2567 which authorized an optional system of rates and charges for conservation districts. Since the Mason County ruling, my staff has been working with the KCD to develop strategies for the sustainable financing of its vital natural resource conservation, agricultural and grant programs in King County. I believe it is prudent to amend the interlocal agreement between King County and the KCD to address the use and expenditure of assessment funds collected in 2012. 1 am transmitting an ordinance to the Metropolitan-King County Council this week that, if approved, will authorize me to enter into an amendment to the 2010-12 ILA with the KCD to assist the KCD in continuing its important work and in planning for a new system of rates and charges. The ILA will also be amended to reflect recent action by the King County Flood Control District (FCD) Board of Supervisors to fund a cooperative watershed management grant program using Flood District revenues in 2012. This important action by the FCD Board of Supervisors puts 2012 funding for WRIA salmon recovery projects and programs on more certain ground for this year. Under the current circumstances,this approach should be seriously considered into the future. However,this action by the FCD only resolves one of the challenges that we are facing with respect to continuing KCD programs. We need to work with the KCD to develop sound funding approaches that will support its work and the important natural resources and resource-based economies in King County. As a regional community of governments, we need to address in collaboration with the KCD the unspent KCD funds collected in previous years, including funding allocated to jurisdictional and water resource inventory area(WRIA) grants under the current ILA.The amendment to the ILA includes a provision calling for KCD, the county, and city jurisdictions to work together over the next three months on a collaborative plan to address allocation of funds collected prior to 2012 that takes all interests into account. Finally, we need to begin joint discussions with the KCD, the King County Council, and all member jurisdictions regarding development of a new system of rates and charges to support core KCD services in 2013 and beyond. Continuation of the KCD programs and its future revenues will also contribute to the region's ability to protect water quality; promote the use of sustainable best management practices in both urban and rural areas to improve the condition of the environment; encourage sustainable and environmentally sound practices for agriculture and forestry; and preserve the important agricultural and resource-based economies in King County. I encourage you to attend the meeting on June 12 to discuss the Flood Control District cooperative watershed management grant program and current and future King Conservation District programs, grants and revenues. June 1, 2012 Page 3 With your help,we can work together to resolve the current challenges. I look forward to your participation in these discussions to help save important projects and programs in our region. Sincerely, �Mej 6wVtoz-6z6�.— Dow Constantine King County Executive cc: Council Members of all King County Cities King County Councilmembers Julia Patterson, Chairperson King County Flood Control District King County Flood Control District Board Supervisors Kjristine Lund, Executive Director, King County Flood Control District King County Agriculture Commission Members Fred Jarrett, Deputy Executive, King County Carrie S. Cihak, Chief Advisor, Policy and Strategic Initiatives, King County Executive Office Dwight Dively, Director, Office of Performance Strategy and Budget Christie True, Director, King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks Mark Isaacson, Director, King County Water and Land Resources Division Sara Hemphill, Executive Director, King Conservation District King Conservation District Board Members Suburban Cities' Association, Executive Director Chairs and members of WRIAs 8, 9 and Snoqualmie Salmon Recovery Forum y3 King Conservation District 1107 SW Grady Way Suite 130•Renton,WA 98057•Phone(425)282-1900•Fax(425)282-1898•district@kingcd.org King Conservation District-City of Renton Partnership Report on Assessment Funds and Projects Summary of Member Jurisdiction Assessment Funds Total Assessment Collections to Date(1994-2010) $362,376.54 Amount Utilized to Date $311,554.69 Amount Available Today(As of 3/29/11) $ 50,821.85 Estimated 2011 Collections $ 50,305.85 Estimated Amount Available Year-End $ 101,127.70 Amount of Collections Older Than 5 Years(1994-2005) $-0- Member Jurisdiction Assessment Funded Grants/Service Contracts Awarded to the City of Renton • Grant,1995,Springbrook Creek Channel Improvement and Wetland Mitigation Project$5,456.17 • Grant,1996,Springbrook Creek Channel Improvement and Wetland Mitigation Project$5,565.48 • Grant,1998,Springbrook Creek Channel Improvement and Wetland Mitigation Project,$11,549.19 • Service Contract,2002,Black River Riparian Forest Buffer Enhancement Plan,$3,552 • Grant,2002,Edmonds Avenue Pocket Park,$5,000 • Grant,2002,May Creek Project,$45,978 • Grant,2006,SW 341h Street Culvert Replacement Project,$55,084.85 • Grant,2006,Black River Channel Native Plant Restoration Project,$4,869 • Grant,2008,Carr Road Panther Creek Culvert Repair and Fish Passage Project$110,000 • Grant,2009,Upper Springbrook Creek,$64,500 WRIA Forum Assessment Funded Grants Awarded to the City of Renton for WRIA 9 Projects • Grant,2009,Upper Springbrook Creek Restoration,$150,000 WRIA Forum Assessment Funded Grants Awarded to the City of Renton for WRIA 8 Projects • Grant,2010,South Lake Washington Shoreline Restoration Design and Construction,$65,274 Other KCD Funds Applied to Projects in City of Renton • Service,2003,Black River Riparian Forest Wetland Buffer Enhancement Project,$6,460.62 • Service,2004,Black River Riparian Forest Wetland Buffer Restoration Project$4,307.70 • Service,2005,Black River Riparian Forest Wetland Buffer Restoration Project,$5,056.98 2011-Renton-Assessment Report City of Renton Restricted Fund Activity Summary and Balance Activity Summary Amount Payment Payment Payment Services Payment Payment Payment Payment Payment Payment Used by Amount Provided Provided Provided Provided Provided Provided Provided Provided Provided Pending10 Fund Year Balance Collected 2/8/1995 1 2/13/1996 2 9/25/1998 3 2001/2002 4 3/1/2002 5 3/1/2002 s 1/31/06 7 1/31/06 8 11/10/20089 1994 Collections $ 5,394.72 5,394.72 - - - - - - - - 5,394.72 $ 1995 Collections 5,591.18 61.45 5,529.73 - - - - - 5,591.18 $ 1996 Collections 5,643.33 - 35.75 5,607.58 - - - - 5,643.33 $ 1997 Collections 5,737.96 - - 5,737.96 - - - - - - 5,737.96 $ 1998 Collections 14,340.71 - - 203.65 3,552.00 5,000.00 9,340.71 - - - 18,096.36 $ (3,755.65) 1999 Collections 13,641.31 - - - - - 13,641.31 - - - 13,641.31 $ 2000 Collections 14,484.72 - - - - 14,484.72 - - - 14,484.72 $ - 2001 Collections 15,204.97 - - 8,511.26 - - 6,693.71 15,204.97 $ - 2002 Collections 15,487.51 - - - - 10,618.51 4,869.00 - 15,487.51 $ - 2003 Collections 16,271.58 - - - - - 16,271.58 - 16,271.58 $ - 2004 Collections 16,656.05 - - - - - - 16,656.05 - - 16,656.05 $ - 2005 Collections 17,188.93 - - - - - 11,538.71 - 5,650.22 17,188.93 $ - 2006 Collections 35,038.48 - - - - - - - 35,038.48 35,038.48 $ - 2007 Collections 38,233.15 38,233.15 38,233.15 $ - 2008 Collections 40,336.06 24,384.44 15,951.62 40,336.06 $ - 2009 Collections 52,568.24 48,548.38 48,548.38 $ 4,019.86 2010 Collections 50,557.64 - $ 50,557.64 2011 Est.Collections 50,305.85 - $ 50,305.85 $412,682.39 $ 5,456.17 $ 5,565.48 $ 11,549.19 $ 3,552.00 $ 5,000.00 $ 45,978.00 $ 55,084.85 $ 4,869.00 $ 110,000.00 $ 64,500.00 $ 311,554.69 $ 50,821.85 362,376.54 Balance Summary Amount Requested by City 5,456.17 5,565.48 11,549.19 5,727.00 5,000.00 45,978.00 55,084.85 4,869.00 110,000.00 Amount Paid/Provided as of 2/27/06 5,456.17 5,565.48 11,549.19 5,727.00 5,000.00 45,978.00 55,084.85 4,869.00 90%Amount Remitted/Provided 99,000.00 $ 58,050.00 10%Amount Remitted/Provided 11,000.00 $ 6,450.00 Estimated Balance(includes est.2010 collections) $ 101,127.70 2010 Collections Received as of Balance Available as of 5/14/10 $ 50,821.85 Documentation/Detail 1 Check 2556,Springbrook Creek Channel Improvement and Wetland Mitigation Project 2 Check 2883, Springbrook Creek Channel Improvement and Wetland Mitigation Project 3 Check 4478 Springbrook Creek Channel Improvement and Wetland Mitigation Project 4 Conservation Services Contract, Black River Riparian Forest Buffer Enhancement Plan 5 Check 6455,Edmonds Ave. Pocket Park 6 Check 6454,May Creek Project Check 9012,SW 34th St Culvert Replacement Project 8 Check 9013, Blk River Channel Native Plant Restoration Project CITY OF RENTON Planning/Building/PublicWorks Department Kathy Keolker-Wheeler, Mayor Gregg Zimmerman P.E.,Administrator October 6,2005 Brandy Reed Noncompetitive Grants Program Manager King Conservation District 935 Powell Ave SW Renton, WA 98055 SUBJECT: KING CONSERVATION DISTRICT GRANT APPLICATION Dear Ms. Reed: We are pleased that the King Conservation District(KCD)approved the City's grant application for two projects; one sponsored by the City and one sponsored by Doris Yepez. While we understand that Ms. Yepez's project application required changes in the applicants name and fiscal agent and the reallocation of some of the budget items in the Budget Expense Table and that these changes will be approved by the KCD at their October meeting. We also understand that the District will be executing separate agreements for the City's project and Doris Yepez's project. We are okay with the District executing a separate agreement with Ms. Yepez. However, we request that you postpone the execution of that agreement until we can obtain the City Council's approval to use a portion of Renton's share of the KCD Funds for her project. Please send the agreement documents in advance of the District meeting, so we can prepare the necessary paperwork to accompany the City's agreement to the City Council. Along with the City's grant agreement with the District, we will include a request for the Council to approve using$4,869 of the City's KCD funds for Ms. Yepez's project. When the Council approves Ms. Yepez's project,we will send you a letter recognizing the City's acknowledgment of the changes that need to be made to her application. Thank you for assistance in this matter. If you have any questions,please call me at 425-430- 7247. Sincerely, Allen Quynn P. Surface Wat r U ility Engineer cc: Ron Straka,P.E.,Surface Water Utility Supervisor H:\File Sys\SWA-Surface Water Section Administration\SWA I I-Interagency Cooperation\King Conservation RENTON ct\2002-2005 KCD Grant \i003 C05ty C orrespnnrienee\KC't)Funds rinr\AQtp 15 South Grady Way-Renton,Washington 98055 ®This paper contains 50%recycled material,30%post consumer AHEAD OF THE CURVE CONCU RE.wCE DATE: _. E 1T! U1) C � October 6, 2005 Brandy Reed Noncompetitive Grants Program Manager -w, .= King Conservation District 935 Powell Ave SW Renton, WA 98055 SUBJECT: KING CONSERVATION DISTRICT GRANT APPLICATION Dear Ms. Reed: We are pleased that the King Conservation District(KCD)approved the City's grant application for two projects; one sponsored by the City and one sponsored by Doris Yepez. While we understand that Ms.Yepez's project application required changes in the applicants name and fiscal agent and the reallocation of some of the budget items in the Budget Expense Table and that these changes will be approved by the KCD at their October meeting. We also understand that the District will be executing separate agreements for the City's project and Doris Yepez's project. We are okay with the District executing a separate agreement with Ms. Yepez. However,we request that you postpone the execution of that agreement until we can obtain the City Council's approval to use a portion of Renton's share of the KCD Funds for her project. Please send the agreement documents in advance of the District meeting, so we can prepare the necessary paperwork to accompany the City's agreement to the City Council. Along with the City's grant agreement with the District,we will include a request for the Council to approve using$4,869 of the City's KCD funds for Ms. Yepez's project. When the Council approves Ms.Yepez's project,we will send you a letter recognizing the City's acknowledgment of the changes that need to be made to her application. Thank you for assistance in this matter. If you have any questions,please call me at 425-430- 7247. Sincerely, Allen Quynn, P.E. Surface Water Utility Engineer cc: Ron Straka,P.E.,Surface Water Utility Supervisor H:\File Sys\SWA-Surface Water Section Administration\SWA 1 l-Interagency Cooperation\King Conservation District\2002-2005 KCD Grants\1003 City Correspondence\KCD Funds.doc\AQtp Allen Quynn - Fwd: change to KCD application for Doris Yepez Page 1 From: Allen Quynn To: brandy.reed@kingcd.org Date: 10/3/2005 1:22:00 PM Subject: Fwd: change to KCD application for Doris Yepez Brandy: I didn't realize that you planned to execute a separate agreement with Doris Yepez for her project. As I explained to you in my voice mail, The Renton City Council will need to approve the use of Renton's share of the KCD funds for Doris's project. I don't anticipate there being an issue but I have to go through the formalities of getting their approval. What I would like to do is combine into one package, the request for the Council's approval for Doris's project and the agreement between the City and King Conservation District for the City's project. If it is possible, please send me the paper work for the agreement so I can get the package put together so when you have your monthly meeting and formally approve the grant applications I can run it through the City Council. Thanks, Allen Quynn, Project Manager City of Renton Surface Water Utility >>> Doris Yepez <dorisdandelion@yahoo.com> 09/27/05 9:15 AM >>> Hi Allen, Here's the draft of a letter with some wording that I think KCD is looking for. Feel free to change it any way, and/or call or email me, if you need more clarification. By the way, did you find out if you need to wait for my part of the application to get your funds? Hope not, for Renton's sake. Brandy's email is: brandy.reed(abkingcd.org Thanks for everything, Doris Dear King Conservation District, This letter is to inform you that, as an authorized representative of the City of Renton, I am aware of the changes that were made in our application to you for the Municipality Noncompetitive Grant. I am aware that, for the project named Black River Channel Native Plant Restoration Project, the Applicant name has been changed from Doris Yepez to the Black River Watershed Alliance. I am also aware that the Black River Watershed Alliance will be their own fiscal agent, thus eliminating the use of the Seattle Audubon Society in Phase 1, and the Duwamish Tribe in Phase 2 as fiscal agents.) am also aware of the change made under #4, Budget Expenses. I understand that in the column with the heading "Other Funds", the "Salaries and Benefits" amount of$14,000 was moved and added in to the amount for "Contracted/Professional Services". Allen Quynn -change to KCD application for Doris Yepez Page 1 From: Doris Yepez <dorisdandelion@yahoo.com> To: Allen Quynn <aquynn@ci.renton.wa.us> Date: 9/27/2005 9:16:22 AM Subject: change to KCD application for Doris Yepez Hi Allen, Here's the draft of a letter with some wording that I think KCD is looking for. Feel free to change it any way, and/or call or email me, if you need more clarification. By the way, did you find out if you need to wait for my part of the application to get your funds? Hope not, for Renton's sake. Brandy's email is: brandy.reed@kingcd.org Thanks for everything, Doris Dear King Conservation District, This letter is to inform you that, as an authorized representative of the City of Renton, I am aware of the changes that were made in our application to you for the Municipality Noncompetitive Grant. I am aware that, for the project named Black River Channel Native Plant Restoration Project, the Applicant name has been changed from Doris Yepez to the Black River Watershed Alliance. I am also aware that the Black River Watershed Alliance will be their own fiscal agent, thus eliminating the use of the Seattle Audubon Society in Phase 1, and the Duwamish Tribe in Phase 2 as fiscal agents.) am also aware of the change made under #4, Budget Expenses. I understand that in the column with the heading "Other Funds", the "Salaries and Benefits" amount of$14,000 was moved and added in to the amount for "Contracted/Professional Services". s King Conservation District 1 Municipality Noncompetitive Grant Application Project Name: Black River Channel Native Contact: Doris Yepez Plant Restoration Project,Phase 1 &Phase 2 Applicant: Black River Watershed Alliance Title: Project Coordinator Principal Partners(if any): Address: 16444 SE 1351h St. City of Renton Renton,WA 98059 Friends of Black River Herons Forever Duwamish Tribe Total Project Cost: $53,559.00 Phone: 425 891-0730 KCD Funding Requested: $4,869.00 Fax: 425 917-0872 Project Start Date: 9/29/2004 E-mail: dorisdandelion ahoo.com Project End Date: Spring 2007 1. Brief Project Description (—200 words): There are two phases to the Black River Channel Restoration Project,Phase 1 and Phase 2, and the funding requested covers both Phases. The goals for both Phases are to restore riparian habitat along the Black River in Renton, Washington, and develop community stewardship of the Black River and the environment. Phase 1 began 9/29/2004 and concludes in March, 2006 with a commitment to maintain and monitor the restoration site for two years. The restoration area for Phase 1 is .83 of an acre in size and located on the south bank of the Black River Channel, off of Monster Rd. SW,adjacent and immediately downstream from the DNRP Black River Pump Station and upstream from the Monster Road Bridge. Much of the work has been completed to date and included: 1. The removal of invasive plants on the top 20 ft. of the riverbank and in the adjoining field. 2. The removal of 11 ecology blocks left on the property. 3. Scarification of the soil to loosen the gravelly soil on half of the field area. 4. Digging planting holes with an auger. 5. Soil amendments. 6. The planting of 613 native trees, shrubs and forbs. 7. Installation of a drip irrigation system to increase the survival rate of the newly planted native vegetation. What remains is the monitoring and maintenance of the restoration site for the two year committed period. Phase 2 will begin in the Fall of 2005 and will conclude in the Spring of 2007. Phase 2 is on the south bank as well, but immediately upstream from, and adjacent to,the DNRP Black River Pump Station. The restoration area is approximately '/2 acre in size. As in Phase 1,the goal is to restore riparian habitat along the Black River in Renton, Washington, as well as expand community stewardship of the Black River and the environment. The new site will also be monitored and maintained for two years. 2. Project Objectives (Citing specific paragraphs and subtexts,provide a brief description of how the project meets one RCW 89.08 criteria and one KCD Strategic Plan Initiative criteria outlined in the Policy and Procedure Overview): King Conservation District 2 Municipality Noncompetitive Grant Application The project objectives are: • Provide shade, food sources and habitat improvements for the fish and wildlife through the removal of invasive weeds and the planting of native trees, shrubs and forbs. • Acquaint the community and students with the Black River. • Educate the community and students about the Black River Channel Restoration Project and the Black River watershed, forest and channel ecosystem. • Involve the community and students in the restoration work. The following provides a brief description of specifically how the project meets a minimum of one of the activities/purposes established for conservation districts pursuant to RCW 89.08 and a minimum of one of the King Conservation District's Strategic Initiatives and one of the Regional Funding Principles approved by the Regional Water Quality Committee(bolded text indicates the specific wording that this proposal is addressing): RCW 89.08 As stated in RCW 89.08.450: "Watershed restoration projects--Intent. The legislature declares that it is the goal of the state of Washington to preserve and restore the natural resources of the state and,in particular,fish and wildlife and their habitat.It is further the policy of the state insofar as possible to utilize the volunteer organizations who have demonstrated their commitment to these goals." Description of how this project meets the first part of the criteria "to preserve and restore the natural resources of the state and, in particular,fish and wildlife and their habitat": This project restores the riparian habitat along the Black River Channel and adjoining field,and improves the fish and wildlife habitat. Planting native trees, shrubs and forbs restores the area to its more natural state. In addition,the native trees planted along the riverbank will provide shade that will keep the temperatures of the water at a more desirable level for salmonids. The debris from the trees and shrubs, leaves falling,will also provide a source of food for the fish; and fallen trees will act as LWD, (Large Woody Debris),which give salmon areas to rest and spawn. The field area,with the planting of native trees, shrubs and forbs, will provide a buffer from the noise and pollution of the street, as well as provide a diversity of food sources for the other wildlife, producing berries and flowers at different times of year. Also, once grown in,the vegetation will provide more habitat areas for the wildlife. Description of how this project meets the second part of the criteria"to utilize the volunteer organizations who have demonstrated their commitment to these goals": During Phase 1,there were four community events: one day for planting,two others for mulching and weeding, and the last was the installation of the drip irrigation system.Numerous groups helped with these tasks including Renton Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, Campfire Girls,Herons Forever members,Friends of Black River,Duwamish tribal members, Sierra Club members,Boeing volunteers and the Briarwood Student Leadership Group. The same volunteer organizations will be asked to help with Phase 2 in order to increase the groups' sense of connection and commitment to the Black River and to give them the opportunity to see the growth and progress made through their participation in the restoration tasks during Phase 1. KCD Strategic Plan Initiative Criteria As stated in the KCD Strategic Plan Initiative Criteria, Section b ii): "Promoting Natural Habitat Restoration.The District will provide information and assistance to landowners,businesses,and other citizens in King Conservation District 3 Municipality Noncompetitive Grant Application rural and urban areas on the preservation and restoration of natural habitats including the creation of low- maintenance native plant habitats that conserve water and are friendly to wildlife,eco-landscaping,establishing naturescaping demonstration sites, intrusive species management and community stewardship". Description of how this project meets this criteria: The restoration work included, in Phase 1,the removal of Himalayan blackberries on the riverbank and in the field area, as well as the removal of other invasive shrubs such as the Butterfly bush. Maintenance of the restoration site includes weeding, specifically focusing on removing the new growth of Himalayan blackberries and Butterfly bush, and removing other weeds on the site that are on the Washington State and/or King County Noxious Weed List, namely, Tansy ragwort, Bull thistle and Oxeye daisy. Other invasive weeds will be removed as needed. Phase 2 also calls for the removal of Himalayan blackberries on the riverbank and in the field areas, and the removal of other noxious weeds present which include Japanese knotweed. During Phase 1, community stewardship has been developed through the involvement of the different volunteer organizations in the restoration tasks and in the presentation of the Black River Channel Restoration Project PowerPoint presentation to four different groups. As stated in the KCD Strategic Initiative Section d, i):"Population Growth and Increased Urbanization. The District will actively promote workable solutions that help minimize the effects of population growth and increased urbanization on the natural environment." Description of how this project meets these criteria: When the planted native trees get larger,they will create a dense wooded area, a small forest, in a highly urbanized setting. The planting of trees in urban areas is very beneficial to the environment. Trees absorb contaminants,control erosion, reduce storm- water run-off by absorbing water through their roots, clean the air, and as stated above, are beneficial to the fish and wildlife by providing more shade, additional food sources and habitat. The trees,with the falling of large wooded debris, also enhance our stream systems. The grassy, field area that was part of the restoration site in Phase 1 was under laid with gravel to accommodate the trucks when the Black River Pump Station was built. One of the restoration tasks, during Phase 1, included ripping up the gravelly field and planting native trees, shrubs and forbs. Mulch was also added throughout the field area. The addition of mulch,and the decomposition of native vegetation in the future, will enrich the soil and help rebuild it. KCD Regional Funding Principles As stated in the#3 KCD Regional Funding Principles, iv), "Water quality and watershed restoration and protection support services such as coordination of monitoring(data collection,studies,evaluation)and public education programs". Description of how this project meets this criterion: During Phase 2,community involvement will expand to include the Renton schools and other local schools. Presently,there are two Renton schools, Lindbergh High School and Black River High School,which have provided written commitments to involve their students in hands-on learning at the Black River, as well as introducing a Black River component into their science curriculum. The Black River Riparian Forest, Channel and restoration areas will be used as a living laboratory for students to learn about scientific methods and concepts and to learn about the Black River and its components. The Black River Restoration Project will also be included as an option in a tour sponsored by the King County Waste Treatment program, Wheels to Water.A visit to the South Treatment Plant will include a tour of the Black River and the opportunity to participate in restoration tasks or learn about the history and components of the Black River through a walking tour of the Forest,Channel and restoration sites. King Conservation District 4 Municipality Noncompetitive Grant Application In addition to the above,the Black River Channel Restoration Project PowerPoint presentation shown to different groups during Phase 1, helped educate the public about the restoration work and the Black River. The PowerPoint presentations will also be shown to new groups participating in Phase 2. 3. Project Activities and Measurable Results: Phase 1: 1. Removal of invasive weeds: Himalayan blackberries were rampant on the riverbank and on a small vegetation island in the middle of the field. There were a few other invasives such as the Butterfly bush, but the Himalayan blackberry was the predominant invasive weed with a 50- 60% ground cover on the riverbank and a 35% ground cover on the island. Most of the invasive blackberries on the restoration site have been eradicated through the cutting and grubbing of the blackberries. Earthcorps was hired to cut and grub the blackberries on the top 20 ft. of the bank. Volunteers and salaried crew have removed the remainder of the blackberries on the island, and have been tackling the new growth of the Himalayan blackberry that is popping up throughout the site. A salaried person has also been cutting blackberries on the lower part of the bank, beyond the 20 ft.,and throughout the site. 2. Removal of ecology blocks: There were 11 ecology blocks on the site before the project began. These have all been removed with the help of King County roads crew. 3. Ripping up of the gravelly field: Before the restoration work,the entire field area was grown over with grass and under laid with gravel that was deposited when the Black River Pump Station was built. It was almost impossible to dig into the field to plant native vegetation since the ground was so compacted. Half of the gravelly field was ripped up with the use of a backhoe,to allow for planting,and now the soil is looser. Thrushes were observed, on at least two different occasions, pecking at the soil since it has been loosened.The backhoe also removed the other invasive shrubs that were in the island. 4. Digging planting holes with an auger: In the other half of the gravelly field, 20 rows of planting holes were dug with an auger. The field area is being used as a test site to see which side produces better results,the augured field area or the area where the backhoe ripped up the gravel and grass. 5. Soil amendments: Approximately 60 cubic yards of mulch was spread throughout the field area of the restoration site beginning January 2005 through May 2005. The mulch helps with weed control; helps keep some moisture close to the newly planted native vegetation, and will enhance the soil as it decays. The soil in the field area is nutrient poor, and some plants are in need of fertilizer. Biosolids are in the process of being purchased from the South Waste Treatment Plant to place around the plants that need some fertilizing. 6. The planting of 613 native trees, shrubs and fortis: Most of the native plants were planted in January 2005. Some were planted in February 2005, and approximately 10 more were donated and planted in May 2005. There has been less than a 2%mortality rate, and those were mostly the Pacific madrones, which have the reputation of being difficult to plant. 7. Installation of the drip irrigation system: The drip irrigation system was installed in April 2005. A drip system is crucial at this site,especially in the field area, since the soil is very well-drained and does not retain water. A few of the native plants had yellowed a little with the early heat spell in February/March,but once the drip irrigation system was running,the plants regained their healthy, green look. The drip irrigation system is attached to the faucet at the Pump Station and is turned on at least 4 times a week by the Pump Station crew, and occasionally on hot and dry weekends,by the restoration project coordinator. 8. Community involvement: The community has shown interest and support, evidenced with the large numbers of participants. For two of the community activity days,there were over 50 volunteers helping on each of those days. King Conservation District 5 Municipality Noncompetitive Grant Application 9. Monitoring and maintenance: The project is being monitored and maintained at least twice a month. Partners to the grant, Herons Forever and Friends of Black River members, are helping with the maintenance and monitoring. Monitoring includes tracking the condition of the native vegetation,the growth of the invasive weeds, checking the drip irrigation system and noting any wildlife in the area. Maintenance includes protecting the native vegetation from being eaten, if necessary; removing the invasive weeds by either weed whacking,or manually cutting then grubbing, as in the case of the blackberries;replacing dead native vegetation and repairing, if necessary,the drip irrigation system. Monitoring and maintenance is very important in helping the native plants thrive as well as ensuring that they will not be out competed by the invasive weeds or eaten by wildlife. The project activities and measurable results for Phase 2 include: l. Planning and organizing: A Scope of Work Budget for King County needs to be completed before December 2005. Dates for the different restoration tasks need to be set,vendors need to be contacted,materials need to be purchased, subcontractors need to be lined up, requests for payments and other paperwork need to be submitted to King County throughout the project. Other grant paperwork needs to be completed including a report to KCD. Reports are submitted to partners on a regular basis. Media will be solicited for the various community events. Planning and organizing is critical for the project to run smoothly and to get the needed tasks done. 2. Contacting different volunteer organizations: Different volunteer organizations will be contacted to help with the native planting, mulching and installation of the drip irrigation system. Involving the community will develop community stewardship of the Black River. We will attempt to involve the same organizations as last year,to strengthen community stewardship, and contact new groups as well. The new groups will be shown the Black River Channel Restoration Project PowerPoint presentation to acquaint them with the Black River and to build some desire and enthusiasm to help with the restoration tasks. 3. Contacting Lindbergh and Black River High Schools to set up dates for student participation in the restoration project and discuss the specifics of the addition of the Black River into the science curriculum. 4. Developing a tour schedule with the Wheels to Water Program and writing up an oral presentation for the tour. 5. Removing invasive weeds: The invasive weeds account for at least 90%of the present groundcover, and most of the weeds are Himalayan blackberry. The weeds need to be removed in order to plant native vegetation. The roots of the weeds will be removed to inhibit the return growth of the weeds. The abundant Himalayan blackberries create a monoculture with a food source that has limited value since it is not eaten by much of the wildlife. 6. Planting native trees, shrubs and forbs: Approximately 500 trees, shrubs and fortis will be planted with numerous species of each.Native vegetation will enhance the area by providing food sources, shade and habitat for the wildlife; and a diversity of native vegetation will provide a variety of food and habitat sources.Native trees will also control erosion, storm-water run-off, clean the air and absorb contaminants in the soil. 7. Soil amendments: Mulch will be added around the areas where the native vegetation is planted. Mulch will help retain the moisture in the soil, control weeds as well as enrich the soil as it decays.A natural fertilizer, such as biosolids,will be added as necessary. 8. Installing a drip irrigation system: The drip irrigation system will keep the native vegetation hydrated and increase their chance of survival. Watering is critical especially during the area's dry summer months. 9. Maintenance and monitoring of the restoration site: Monitoring includes checking and recording the condition of the native plants,the drip irrigation system,the growth of the invasive weeds and wildlife activity. Maintenance involves repairing the drip irrigation system, removing the growing weeds,replacing dead native plants and protecting the native plants from being eaten by wildlife. Frequent maintenance and monitoring will help keep the invasive growth from getting King Conservation District 6 Municipality Noncompetitive Grant Application out of control and help insure the successful growth of the native vegetation as well as catch any other problems that come up. 1. Budget Expenses Budget Item KCD Other Funds Other Total Funds King County Funds Vaterworlcs ,f C11 Grant Salaries and Benefits Travel/Meals/Mileage 253 2043 2296 Office/Field Supplies 3489 12728 16217 Contracted/Professional 1034 29138 30172 Services Land Acquisition Permits 93 97 190 Other (Fiscal-Agents) 4684 4684 TOTAL 4869 48690 53559 2. Describe how KCD funding will be acknowledged over the duration of the project. The KCD contribution will be noted on the signs that will be placed at the two restoration sites upon the termination of the project. King County has been advised that KCD funds will potentially be the source of the cash match for the project for both phases. Any newspaper articles or photos will acknowledge KCD as a contributor to the project. KCD will be acknowledged as a contributor and partner in the Black River Channel Restoration Project PowerPoint presentation.KCD will also be mentioned and acknowledged in other correspondence related to the project. Authorized Signature Date Ronald Straka - Doris Ypres Request for Grant funding assistance from Renton Page 1 I From: Gregg Zimmerman To: Margaret Pullar Date: 04/14/2005 12:53:25 PM Subject: Doris Ypres Request for Grant funding assistance from Renton As you may be aware, Renton resident Doris Ypres has received a King County waterworks grant in the amount of$30,000 to perform a habitat planting/enhancement project in Renton. This project involved vegetation planting along the Black River channel near the Black River Pump Station close to the Monster Road Bridge. Doris contacted the Mayor's Office requesting Renton's support in allowing her to use $2,800 of Renton's King Conservation District fund allocation as her local match for the King County grant. Ron Straka and I have discussed this. Doris' project is a good one and we feel worthy of the Financial support she is requesting (in fact Doris informed me that the Mayor will be issuing her an Urban Forestry award for the project on Wednesday). This is how we propose to respond to Doris: 1) The Surface Water Utility will be putting together an agenda bill shortly to request Council authorization to request that the King Conservation district remit the Renton allocation to Renton (an amount I think is in excess of$40,000). We would use this money for habitat restoration and enhancement related work. 2) The agenda bill would request authorization to leave $2,800 of the Renton allocation with the King Conservation District. Renton would then support Doris' application for this grant funding. This would be a clean way for us to handle this -the grant would be from the King Conservation District rather than from Renton and we would avoid the expenditure tracking responsibilities and the need to enter into a grant funding contract with Doris. I will contact Doris and tell her that this is staffs recommended approach, but it will require approval from Renton's Policy Makers. Thanks. Gregg CC: Derek Todd; Jay Covington; Lys Hornsby; Ronald Straka Ron-'-I Straka - Re: Doris Ypres request to use Renton's King Conservation 4; for grant match Page 1 From: Gregg Zimmerman To: Ronald Straka Date: 04/14/2005 11:58:13 AM Subject: Re: Doris Ypres request to use Renton's King Conservation $$ for grant match Thanks, Ron. My question is whether we need Council authorization for this expenditure. Since it is not in the budget, I'm not sure that we have authority to give it to Doris. On the other hand the City does not have the$$ yet either, so in a sense it is not City money but potential city money. This is a gray area. think the best and safest approach would be for us to put together an agenda bill with a brief issue paper and a map of Doris' project for"council concur" approval, rather than sending it to Utilities Committee. will call Doris and let her know our intention and that we need authorization from our policy makers. I'll give her your phone# if she needles additional info. Does this sound okay? Gregg >>> Ronald Straka 4/14/2005 11:45:30 AM >>> Since I have waited so long I can now use this response to address both this email message and your April 4, 2005 email that I have failed to respond back to you on. I don't have a problem with allowing Doris Ypres to use $2,800 of our KCD funds that we have coming to us for her project. I think we have about$28,820 currently available to the City upon request, plus another estimated $16,271 available from the 2004 Assessment, for a total of approximately$45,091. We have done the same thing in the past for other groups like the Friends of the Black River. I will contact the KCD to verify the amount of grant funding available and determine how this money can be provided directly to Doris Ypres. I seem to recall that we just have to let the KCD know that we are authorizing Doris Ypres to submit a grant application for her project for their approval and if approved she can use a portion ($2,800) of our KCD assessment. In addition, I will start the process of collecting the rest of the money for our use on eligible projects. If you want, I can contact Doris regarding this decision, or you can let her know that she can use $2,800 of our KCD funds and that she can contact me to make the arrangements. I apologize for not getting back to you sooner on your 4/4/05 email. Thanks >>> Gregg Zimmerman 04/14/2005 10:13:29 AM >>> Ron, I just got a voice message from Doris Ypres asking whether we had a response to her request. She will be receiving an Urban Forestry award from the Mayor on Wednesday for the project. Let me know what you think so I can call her back. I wouldn't mind using some $$for this if we can spare any. Of course we would need Council Authorization. Gregg >>> Gregg Zimmerman 04/04/2005 6:52:53 PM >>> Ron, I have a question for you when you get back on Thursday. Doris Ypres (425-891-0730), who organized the planting project at the Black River Channel, called me to say that she needs 10% of the value of the King County grant as a local match of the grant. She is asking that Renton award her part of our Conservation District funding for this purpose (she has already talked to the Conservation District about this, who directed her to talk to Renton). I told Doris that Renton is a mid-sized City and we do not run grant programs; however I told Doris that I would talk to you about this idea and one of us will get back to her. Please let me know your thoughts on Doris Ypres' suggestion that we use $2,800 of Conservation onald Straka - Re: Doris Ypres request to use Renton's King Conservation $$ for grant match Page 2 District money to help her cover her local matching funds requirement. Do we have another use of the $$ in mind? Thanks. Gregg Ronald Straka - Doris' revised KCD application Page 1 From: Doris Yepez <dorisdandelion@yahoo.com> To: <rstraka@ci.renton.wa.us> Date: 06/13/2005 6:21:45 PM Subject: Doris' revised KCD application Hi Ron, I finally heard back from Brandy at KCD. She gave me a couple suggestions for my grant application, which I implemented, and said everything else looks good to go. She recommended that you or some other City of REnton Representative"submit my application with a cover letter requesting the District fund the project with KCD assessment collections allocated to the City of Renton". So could you do that when you send in my application?Thanks so much. I've attached my revised and final grant application to this email. Just curious as to where you are in your application process. Do you expect to submit it soon? One more big thanks for allowing me to use KCD funds for my cash match. It's a big load off my mind. Warmly, Doris