eNews: Reopening, Main Street Closure, Amazon Competition

Safe Start and Reopening Updates

On Friday, June 5^th, Snohomish County moved to Phase 2 and King County moved to modified Phase 1. Certain businesses can reopen but at reduced occupant load capacity. The City developed a Guide for Determining Occupant Load/Capacity to assist Bothell restaurant and retail store owners in determining their social distancing occupant load. King County applied to move to Phase 2 on June 15th.

Some Board and Commission meetings resumed virtually in June. We do not know exactly when City Council or other public meetings will resume in person, but we do expect attendance to be limited once resumed and safety protocols will be in place. Per state guidance, we expect City Hall to partially reopen doors to the public when King County reaches Phase 3.

City offices will be closed/not providing service every other Friday for furlough days. Next furlough day is June 26th. Police and Fire operations are not impacted. Please note, we have gone from two general Customer Service representatives to just one, so our response time to serve customers from the lobby at City Hall may require more patience.

Parks Update
Parks has just opened limited restrooms at some parks, the Blyth Park Disc Golf Course and picnic shelters for drop-in use only. Playgrounds are not expected to open until Phase 3.

Support for Businesses

Main Street is closed to vehicles from now until September 7 between 101st and 102nd Ave NE. The street, sidewalk, and flex spaces will be open for dining and retail sales to support businesses and social distancing requirements. Buses have been rerouted to accommodate the closure. Restaurants throughout Bothell can apply to use their own parking lot space for extra seating.

Civil Protests

During the past few weeks, our community has seen multiple peaceful protests. Our City Manager and City Council discussed in a recent council meeting, reiterating our support for all members of our community and confirming our commitment to listen and learn what we can do better. Bothell Police has had many conversations with our community and has been at protests to show their support. See a personal message from our Police Chief, an initial list of common questions they are answering, and policy manual here:

Amazon Catalyst Competition

We have teamed up with NW Innovation Resource Center to launch an Amazon Catalyst Competition! Bothell residents are encouraged to submit their big ideas for the chance to win up to $10,000 in prizes. Open to all residents over the age of 18. Learn more about our Applied Sciences theme and apply by July 31st, 2020.

Budget Process Has Started

The 2021-22 budget process has started and will continue until November. Staff expects to present the preliminary revenue forecast and start discussing department budget requests with City Council in a series of three public meetings scheduled for June 23, 24 and 25.

Pedestrian Bridge Update

A new bridge is under construction to replace the pedestrian bridge over the Sammamish River at the Park at Bothell Landing. The new bridge will provide an ADA-compliant path for pedestrians and cyclists while maintaining the historic arched shape of the bridge. The existing bridge will remain in place during construction of the new bridge. Demolition is expected to take place in August.

June 22 – 28 is Pollinator Week!

Did you know that pollinators like bees, butterflies, and bats provide one out of every three bites of food we eat? Show appreciation for these hard workers by planting native plants, cutting back on yard chemicals, supporting local farmers, and educating others about the importance of pollinators.

Septic Care Online Workshop
Learn more about your septic system in this free online workshop June 23, 6:30 – 8 p.m. via Zoom! Our partners at Snohomish Conservation District are excited to host Teri King, the leading Septic Specialist for Washington SeaGrant. Register online and you’ll receive an email with a link to the workshop before the event date.

Grilling Safety

Grilling season is back! Prevent outdoor fires by keeping your barbecue or grill at least ten feet away from your home. Your grill should be placed well away from deck railings, eaves and overhanging branches, and should never be left unattended.