HomeMy WebLinkAbout03/01/2016 00 Misc Distributed at the MeetingDistributed at the
Meeting
Plaza Comments received
copied from general council email
February 29, 2016
Jason Kildall — director ntheseasonsyakima.com
The Board of Directors of the Seasons Performance Hall endorses the
Downtown Plaza Project.
For hundreds of years, public spaces - in particular large central plazas - have
played a critical role in the development of great cities Such spaces create a
feeling of inclusion, and nurture a sense of belonging that spans all elements of
the community They enrich lives by providing a place for communities to gather
and create shared memories And they provide opportunities for citizens and
visitors alike to engage in arts and culture in new and exciting ways
In 2005, The Seasons Performance Hall was founded as a center for the music
and the performing arts in Yakima We take seriously our mission to help
revitalize downtown and its many neighborhoods, expand cultural opportunities
for Yakima's citizens, and promote economic prosperity The Yakima Central
Plaza will complement and extend that mission, and enhance our citizens'
avenues for expression, growth and communal fun!
Charlie Hines — clhines576a�gmail.com
I urge you to consider moving forward with the proposed downtown plaza I
believe it will increase pride in our city & will lead the way to further -much needed
improvements downtown
February 27, 2016
Kristen Fork — kfork54(a� live. com
This plan is for the future generations of Yakima It emcompasses„ like Crandall
& Arambula's plan, securing city centers and building upwards instead of
increasing urban sprawl The core of our city is important, not solely as a
destination point but first geared towards our citizens We will be the ones to use
it (like all the other plazas and squares) Our city is 47 %+ Latino yet our previous
council and stakeholders are all white
The design, which is the same as many other GGN designs, nothing outstanding
is not conducive to our area, our demographics and our families Crandall &
Arambula, world renowned specialists in creating a strong and vital city center,
who are award winning designers take the whole city into consideration with their
work. I'm sorry, but if you ask 100 people in Yakima who Gustafson is, 85% will
say, "Who ? ? ?" or "Que ? ?"
Also, the information put out by city on its website states, "skating rink at plaza"
when in fact there is no concept of such a thing here It shows other comparable
size cities and how they've fared yet they don't mention that Missoula is home to
Montana STate University and Rapid City to Ellingworth Air force base They are
also cities with many large parks and green areas, bike paths, walking trails and
pathways, civic centers and parking meters
But, at least they get revenue from all the fines levied against those who dare to
go over on their meter time
If you keep okaying all the ugly stn malls, you take away from downtown
business and increase urban sprawl, congestion and pollution Let Union Gap
have the mall and lets get more green areas, parks, paths and a civic center
Remember the majority of you on city council are now the minority in Yakima
February 25, 2016
Michael Moore — michael michaelmooreconsult.com
I am writing to urge your support for construction of the Downtown Plaza The
pros and cons for this can at times feel endless But even writing from a family
who needs accessible parking I feel it is far more important to have a downtown
that is attractive to and animated by lots of pedestrian activity Being out of our
cars is good for us - -it is healthy, we meet and greet our neighbors on shared
ground and we slow down to actually enjoy all our great community has to offer
As a community we need to create every opportunity we can to be in closer
proximity to one another - -where ever we live, work and play All great
communities share that in common and I know you all share your belief in
making and keeping Yakima a great community
Please vote yes for the Plaza and vote yes for the people of Yakima
With greatest respect and admiration thank you for your service to Yakima,
Andy Granitto — andy(c-)-yakimavalleymuseum.org
I would like to thank you all for your careful consideration of the Yakima Central
Plaza I know you have been inundated with letters, both for and against, and
I'm sure that anything I have to say about the pros and cons of this project will
simply repeat what others have said before me So I will instead tell you a story
that may offer a new perspective on your pending decision
Last spring, when my wife and I were in Chicago for my nephew's wedding, we
visited the Lurie Garden, a small park between the Chicago Art Institute and
Millennium Park (with its iconic reflective "bean" sculpture) that celebrates the
city's prairie home with native plants in a seemingly random and natural
landscape design We sought out this garden because we knew it was the work
of Kathryn Gustafson
A plaque at the garden entry proudly announced that this unique public space is
the work of world renowned landscape architectural firm Gustafson Guthrie
Nichol, and described how the design captures and celebrates Chicago's cultural
and natural identity The garden has won 6 major design awards, and praise is
consistently showered on design partner Kathryn Gustafson Although the
garden was full of people, it was calm and peaceful, the subtle design of the
space successfully fostered relaxation and reflection
We, like other tourists around us, reached for our smartphones to learn more
about this oddly "wild" space in the center of this most urban city We discovered
many words of praise in published articles and books and many more from
"average folks" like ourselves, and we were consistently directed to the website
of Gustafson Guthrie Nichol and various other pages dedicated to Kathryn
Gustafson herself We learned of other award - winning city parks in Washington
DC, Venice, Singapore, and elsewhere, and of Gustafson's best known work, the
Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Garden in London We were repeatedly
informed of Gustafson's birth and youth in Yakima, Washington, and of how the
high desert sagebrush environment shaped her ability to capture the essence of
a place in her unique designs And, on the Gustafson Guthrie Nichols website,
we saw the proud announcement of Yakima Central Plaza, a pending project in
Gustafson's hometown
As we looked at the people around us, we realized that they too were discovering
these same facts about Gustafson and Yakima, Washington
I could go on about promotion of our -city in some unlikely places, world -
recognized projects that are rarely found in our home town, and opportunities
that may never come again, but I will trust you to weigh the many short-term
costs and long -term benefits, and draw your own conclusions
Thank you for your time and service to Yakima
Alex Barth — alex.barthCa).iohnihaas.com
Letter attached
David Morales — dtown2703(cDgmail.com
Our city is at an impasse The plaza is an opportunity to give Yakima a built
environment worth of its people and our beautiful central Washington
surroundings It is my hope, as well as that of my family, that this city come
together and make this dream a reality I look forward to the day that all
communities will gather at this one place and know that we are home
February 24, 2016
Dowd Luce — dvdluce(c-)-gmail.com
Either discontinue Downtown Plaza or put up to vote by residents We cannot
afford it.
Jackie Jones — 1(a-,)thinkallday.com
As a homeowner, active community member, and wife to a third year medical
student at PNWU, I am putting my trust in the City Council to use their authority
as my representatives to approve the construction for the Gustafson - designed
Yakima Central Plaza This city needs a heartbeat. It's a straight run through
town on Yakima Ave with no consideration for a pause There is nowhere to
relax, take a walk, enjoy greenery, wander from restaurant to shop without
having to cross unsightly parking lots and more concrete We need a place to sit,
a place to find inspiration in our downtown This design offers nothing but a win -
win for our community, and I believe this is what will help promote Yakima to
become its best self We are all investors in this city, and it would be a shame to
lose this opportunity of growth when we already have so much on the table for
the plaza to begin Let's take this moment to change our city for the better, and
make a difference in how we, and others, will interact with our downtown
February 22, 2016
Tyson Baker — tson cJfitstudioVakima.com
In Chicago s Millennium Park, there are Saturday morning workout classes,
drawing hundreds of people to downtown at otherwise quiet times These Tai
Chi, Yoga, Pilates, and Zumba classes bring people together to create a sense
of community, and also battle obesity I can certainly see local businesses and
organizations collaborating to bring this type of programming to the Yakima
Central Plaza I for one wili be there with my tennis shoes on!
Sharon Miracle — Sharon miracle(cDtreetop com
As a citizen of Yakima and significant participant in our community, I encourage
each of you to move ahead with the creation of a Central Plaza in downtown
Yakima to benefit our citizens The concept was not dreamed up by City staff or
the former Council but is a result of public meetings and a significant process of
due diligence
There are countless cities around the globe where the community's heartbeat
and positive energy flourishes around a central plaza where no parking exists,
Instead people mingle around fountains, enjoy eating al fresco, shopping and
listening to street musicians and more The business communities around such
plazas tend to grow and be more successful than ever as a result of the
additional foot traffic and events which draw residents and visitors together in the
area
There will never be 100% support for anything involving the spending of public
funds so don't let fear of criticism stop you There are a few, fearful business
owners around the proposed plaza who are concerned about the potential
reduction in parking As you hopefully know, they didn't invest in the parking lot
initially and according to the parking studies, there will not be a reduction in the
number of spaces available I strongly believe, like the development experts,
those owners will ultimately benefit from more and more people enjoying
downtown Yakima thanks to a Central Plaza where citizens will mingle safely
among friends, family and visitors while enjoying open air markets, music, and
more
Thank you for all you do for our great city!
February 20, 2016
Quinn Dalan — guinndalanCo)-gmail.com
I fully support the approval of the Yakima Central Plaza I am a wife, lawyer and
the mother of a 19 month old boy I am involved in the Yakima community and I
enjoy all of the events Yakima has to offer
The plaza will be an asset to our community It will be a beautiful place in the
heart of our downtown I'm so excited to take my son to the plaza in the summer
so he can play in the water fountains and picnic on the lawn I look forward to a
better place to hold the Farmer's Market, including the possibility of a more year -
round market. The Fresh Hop Ale Festival and all of the downtown concerts will
be so much more pleasant when they are held in a place with shaded event
seating and lawn
I would encourage you all, as the leaders of our community, to vote to continue
with the creation of the plaza As leaders, it is your job to make the best decision
for the people of Yakima - and the plaza is that decision Years ago, when the
water slide park went in to Moses Lake it was initially put to a vote The people
of Moses Lake voted no on the water slide park They didn't want increase of
taxes But, fortunately for the people of Moses Lake, the leaders of the
community found some bonds and went ahead with the project regardless of
public outcry It is, and has been, an amazing asset to that community, just as
the plaza will be for Yakima
Please vote to build the Yakima Central Plaza
February 18, 2016
Dan & Mollie Koommoo — craftedyakima(a-)_gmail.com
The Yakima Central Plaza will be visual evidence of our willingness and foresight
as a community to invest today for the good of our community in the future That
good will come in new businesses, employment opportunities, increased
community space for multiple uses, attraction to tourists and other visitors to
spend more time in our stores, our restaurants, and our entertainment venues
close to local hotels Growing commerce will mean growing funds for ongoing
community projects and needs We want this kind of opportunity for Yakima This
plaza will only benefit the community and economy of Downtown Yakima We
vote YES!
February 16, 2016
Curt Gilbert — curt gilbertcellars com
My name is Curtiss Gilbert I am general manager of Gilbert Cellars I have a
tasting room on Front and Yakima Avenue It is located two blocks from a parking
lot that I hope is transformed into a user friendly plaza that attracts visitors to
Yakima's downtown core Without visitors, my tasting room goes away
I am solidly for the Kathryn Gustafson /Brett Baba designed plaza They are not
only local products but are also world class designers I have pledged $25,000 to
the Plaza Project because it is good for my business and great for City tax
revenues
February 15, 2016
Carol Vanevenhoven — carollyns(cDmsn.com
Events like Cinco de Mayo and Fresh Hop Ale Festival celebrate different
aspects of why Yakima is such a great place to live These celebrations require
significant infrastructure, everything from tents, to a stage, to power must be
brought in The design for the proposed Yakima Central Plaza has an ample and
well- located power supply that will not only support the events mentioned, but it
will also provide a venue for smaller concerts and the farmers market to flourish
without the high cost of renting many event items Our community should be
proud to showcase a plaza designed by a word - renowned firm, Gustafson
Guthrie Nichol which has designed projects for the Smithsonian and the Gates
Foundation to name a few My family enjoys attending events in Yakima's
downtown I think the Yakima Central Plaza would be a welcome addition to our
community
Julie Gilbert — julierankingilbert �gmail.com
As a life long Yakima resident I am completely mystified why anyone who cares
about the future of our city would be against the plans for the downtown plaza
Having a central plaza will bring tourism, retail restaurants, jobs, increased taxes
and a place where local residents can feel proud and safe
I have followed the work of Katherine Gustafson and Brett Baba for several
years They are both incredibly talented and their work draws people to visit from
all over the world The idea that we could be lucky enough to have them involved
in the design for our downtown is an unbelievable opportunity for our entire
community The contribution of two Yakima natives who have gone on, through
education, hard work, and talent, to become experts in their fields provides a
wonderful example for the youth in our city
My husband and I are pledging to support the plaza We believe in Yakima, the
downtown core, and the future of our lovely town with the plaza at its center
Please consider supporting the plaza as designed and help our city move
forward to downtown prosperity
Gilbert Plascencia — plascenciagCa)-hotmail.com
The Yakima City Council and residents alike have looked at other cities with
successful plazas, heard testimonies from experts in those cities about the
success of their plaza developments with significant returns on investment of $15
million to $55 million for every $1 of public investment. Those communities have
reported success because community leaders and city government have had the
will to move forward despite some resistance to such change In the end, they
reported an overall cooperation by businesses Let's accomplish the same in
Yakima
Lawrence Golan — lawrencegolan(a-)-gmail.com
We are fortunate to be a community of many events The organizations that
create events like Cinco de Mayo and Fresh Hop Ale Festival, for example have
invested many years of time and money to make their events a success We
could have many more events like these (and even ones we have not thought of)
if it were easier to produce events The Yakima Central Plaza's design includes a
year -round permanent stage that eliminates the cost of stage rental The stage
will make it easier for new community groups to produce new events in our
downtown I look forward to attending these new events in the plaza
Nora Requena — mrsreguena65)-gmail.com
Some of our great outdoor events are hosted on the city streets This is of
concern to local businesses when blocked streets prevent customers from easily
entering their establishments The Yakima Central Plaza is intended to provide
ample space for events, and to then decrease the number of street closures that
can hinder local business The Farmer's Market is an example of that. When
such events are able to be moved off the street into a pleasant setting and even
into a shaded vendor area, two positive things happen First, street access is
available to shoppers in the down town area And second, parking is available
around and close to both businesses and event attendees This is a positive
solution! Even if every business person does not directly benefit from every
event, in the long run the economic and quality of life benefit for the entire
community makes it a great solution
February 14, 2016
Gay Dorsey — gaydoo(cD-yahoo.com
I hope that you will carefully consider the Plaza project at your March 8 meeting
and vote YES on this important part of Yakima's future! We are big supporters of
the project and have pledged $150,000 or our own money to back it This may
be the last chance for all of us to build a beautiful gathering place and help
Yakima become a place where people want to visit, work, live, and raise their
children
When we travel, we never return and say, "wasn't that a beautiful city? It had
such lovely parking!" But we often say, "Wasn't that a beautiful city? Remember
that lovely park where there were trees and flowers, and kids were laughing, and
people were sitting outside having coffee, and that band was playing ?" Think
hard about this, and please vote yes
Mike Snyder – mikesnyder(a-)-mikesnyder.com
Letter attached
John Baule –john _yakimavalleymuseum . org
Can you imagine Yakima without the Capitol Theatre, Gilbert Park, and Franklin
Park? Yet, in each case, there was significant opposition to supporting these
community treasures After the 1975 Capitol Theatre fire, many wanted the
burned -out shell leveled for more parking, when Elon Gilbert offered land for
Gilbert Park, many thought another park was a waste of money, and when
property owners around the empty lots between 19th and 22nd on Tieton
petitioned the city to create a park, opponents said the space would add more to
the city as residential building lots
Fortunately, in each case, private citizens came together to raise the needed
private money, and the Yakima City Council members had the courage and
wisdom to see the hope and opportunity these three projects would bring to our
community for generations to come They did not let fear and negativity blind
their decisions
1 urge the present Yakima City Council to once again act in favor of hope and
opportunity —not fear and negativity, and support the construction of the Yakima
Central Plaza The plaza is an expression of hope and belief in our community's
future, retention of the parking lot it replaces will forever be a symbol of a lost
opportunity
February 12, 2016
Nancy & Joe Gabriel – gabrieljnf(cD_msn.com
We moved to Yakima seven years ago, eager to explore our new community,
including downtown Quickly we noticed the ebb and flow of downtown
businesses, while growth continued in strip malls of West Yakima
When plans to revive downtown began, we were thrilled! The Plaza project
promises growth and vibrancy It offers a "hub" for folks to gather, attend free
events and /or shop, dine and stimulate local economy Plus, it offers a green
space designed by a world renown landscape architect And, private donations
are deferring the costs wow!
Why pass up this creative opportunity to improve our downtown, the core of our
community?
February 11, 2016
Matt Hargreaves — hargrema- ,gmail.com
I am business person and I am in favor of the Gustafson - designed Yakima
Central Plaza I believe this will benefit the business community by provided a
gathering place for people to spend time together and spend money at nearby
business In addition, events can be held there, business people can enjoy lunch
in a central location and it can be a central gathering spot for anyone from
anywhere The fact that we have private pledges and a WORLD -class designer
makes this project an amazing opportunity What other city has this opportunity
at their fingertips! This will make Yakima a better place to live and work
February 10, 2016
Joy Clark — joyclark1996(a-charter.net
Although I am not a resident of Yakima (I live in Selah) I work in Yakima and
spend much recreation time downtown I urge you to approve the Plaza project,
because it would not merely enhance downtown, it has the ability to re- create a
downtown, with space for the kind of social and cultural, along with commercial,
activities that are the heart and soul of any community
I understand that there are numerous valid projects, but I believe that we all are
aware how powerful any kind of plaza like this is, drawing community members
to common purpose and common experiences Yakima needs that.
Terry Meloy — terrymeloy(cD-gmail.com
I noticed in your rules that you will not accept form letters I would suggest you
inform " I LOVE YAKIMA" of that fact since ! just received an e-mail requesting I
submit my love for the proposed plaza to you along with suggested language for
expressing my feelings and a link to your site in order to.make thier request as
easy as possible for me Please allow me to use my own thoughts I do love
Yakima, however I do not approve of the Plaza proposed location or the
expenditure of millions of tax payer dollars when the city can't even afford to pick
up the leaves after their already raked, bagged, and placed by the curb If
someone feels strongly enough about a city issue to write a letter to the editor
then let them write their own letter
Melissa Christianson — melissachristianson(aD- live. com
I am the mother of three children and a member of the Real Estate
community In addition, my family owns a well known downtown business It is
my opinion that the Plaza is a great idea, but please read on I do NOT like the
location for this plaza Downtown parking is limited, despite what is shown on
maps and diagrams The parking lot marked to become plaza space is used by
multiple businesses With this lot gone, it is more difficult for elderly and anyone
with small children or special needs to get to the business they'd like to visit.
There are better areas to put a year round plaza and they have been suggested
by multiple people Please do not be swayed by the money that is being thrown
towards this project. I have a commercial client who is no longer looking at the
perfect downtown retail building (that has sat vacant for YEARS!!) because he
and his partners are concerned there is not adequate parking for customers As
of today, there is that parking, but if the plaza goes in this lot will be much
busier People will not be able to park next to his business but will be forced to
walk several blocks We all know we could use the exercise, but this is the land
of extreme weather - too hot, too cold, too windy These potential customers will
instead drive down 1 st Street to the big box stores to shop
Think carefully about what is wanted long term for Yakima A revamp is needed
but perhaps it doesn't start with a plaza in a main lot.
Kate Sundquist — sundquistkate(D_gmail.com
I am a mom, designer and a passionate Yakima community member and I want
to see City Council use their authority as our representatives by approving
construction for the Gustafson - designed Yakima Central Plaza I believe in the
project because a strong and vibrant core is essential to any city This
multipurpose gathering space at the heart of our city would become a catalyst for
new and existing businesses surrounding the plaza and throughout
downtown The plaza will create a stronger sense of place and community
pride for all of those who live in Yakima
I believe the project could not be in better hands Kathryn Gustafson and her
team have developed an amazingly appropriate design that focuses on the
strengths and diversity of our beautiful valley With pledges from the private
sector in hard, and a world -class design at our fingertips, this project is a win -win
for our community
Thank you for serving our community Please say yes to improving our city and
voting yes of the Yakima Central Plaza!
Laura Rankin — laura(a�gilbertcellars.com
I am a business owner, a non - profit founder, and a lifelong Yakimainiac In short,
I love Yakima and want to see it succeed for a multitude of reasons
I know the Yakima Central Plaza will serve to bring our community together
When the center of our community is a world - class, permanent, event -ready
place for an infinite number of programs, I believe we will see much more unity
than we do today This plaza has never been positioned as "instead of " The
plaza is "more than " As in "more than" the sum of its parts
Communities like ours must invest in the future in a way that is physically visible
to potential residents and tourists We must demonstrate to current residents our
ability to be progressive and visionary about the future What does the future look
like? In our town, it looks like more human interaction (and density!), pedestrian
activity, and spaces for small business to start (and to grow) Young
professionals, families, and those who seek a safer community ALL want these
things The plaza is the engine that will drive these outcomes
As for events, creating events in our downtown is currently challenging - -due to
lack of a plaza, organizers must close streets, rent power, pay to construct risers
for stages, hire sound engineers to operate equipment, etc Creating a plaza will
eliminate these expensive barriers to entry so that ANY organization or person
can create new events, can start small and grow them to be an essential part of
the larger fabric of the community The events the community can produce and
attend in the plaza are only limited by our imaginations
I urge you to consider what has been put into this project to date Research,
public meetings, RFPs, volunteer time, professional and expert knowledge, not to
mention private business pledges in the MILLIONS, and the city $$ that has
already been spent on this project. Turn those investments into a finished plaza I
look forward to standing with all of you when we cut the ribbon
Cheers to the future of our ever - strengthening community!
Travis Margoni — travis.margoni(cD-gmail.com
First, congratulations to the new members It's really exciting to see the city
represented more fairly than ever by the diverse people and ideas found in
Yakima I'm thrilled to support you as you move forward
A short note about me I'm a new faculty member at Yakima Valley Community
College in the English Department, and I'm about 10 years into my career as an
educator Prior to YVCC, I taught full tirne and developed curriculum at the
University of Utah and Oregon State University After 4 years in Utah, I applied to
about 30 community colleges around the country and interviewed with 4 excellent
schools I chose YVCC above them all And I chose your town, Yakima I'm
profoundly grateful for the opportunity afforded to me by my colleagues in the
department and my Dean I chose YVCC and Yakima because I want to settle
into a community that is diverse and in need of passionate young professionals
(Am I still "young" at 35? Let's just go with it ) I came here to listen and learn
about your community and apply my experience and skills as an educator I also
came here because I see so many opportunities for improvement
One area in need of improvement is Yakima's downtown, as some of you might
agree Since I arrived last August, I've followed the Yakima Central Plaza
situation closely, and I want to express my unequivocal support for the project.
It's a great opportunity to improve downtown Yakima, and I urge you all to
support the Plaza project.
I'm aware of the many arguments against the Plaza, and I'll address just a
couple I've met and spoken with leaders of the Capitol Theatre, (I'm on the
planning committee to bring the first Hispanic U S Poet Laureate to Yakima in
May, Juan Carlos Herrera ) The Capitol Theatre and parking have been a
concern that seems to get repeated in the community, but folks at the theater
support the Plaza Community anxiety over parking seems misplaced My
understanding is that roughly the same number of parking spots will be available
Further, the concern that adjacent streets are "unsafe" and therefore the Plaza is
a bad idea represents troubling, fallacious thinking Please do not succumb to
this Yakima's high rate of substance abuse (and the violence that comes with it)
is an issue that needs direct action To develop in ways that attempt to avoid
contact zones is doubly troubling we'd be again sweeping aside the substance
abuse problems while also missing out on a wonderful opportunity for business
and social engagement
I know there are more issues and concerns in play regarding the Plaza, but I'll
end this now because I realize you're all very busy, and I can be very wordy
The Plaza is not merely a practical, sensible development. It's also
representative of the type of progress Yakima needs to make in order to draw
new, talented people to the city As the City Council is energized by new,
talented ccmmunity members, I hope that you'll approve the Plaza without
reservation
Lynda Otey — Isoteye-yvn.com
I love the idea of a Central Plaza
I dislike immensely the thought that the Millennium Plaza was worth so little that
it will be torn down I also dislike that the core area will loose available parking
for the disabled and elderly
All of Yakima's children and families need to be able to EASILY access this plaza
-- walking several blocks is not easy for some
I appreciate that Kathryn Gustafson is from Yakima but there must be other
options available that will include everyone
I was recently at a Mercy Theater and a artist's rendering of a possible plaza
design popped up on the screen I didn't get to see it in complete detail but I
could easily see that part of the current proposed area was a new plaza, the
current Millennium Plaza was intact, AND there was a multi -level parking garage
on the west end What a great solution! Everyone wins
Please reconsider the design that would displace the current parking
conveniences Build a Plaza that all can enjoy in the future along with supporting
the arts, events, and restaurants that are what Downtown Yakima is about today
Sean Hopkins — seanmhopkins(a-).hotmail.com
I am a fourth generation Yakima Valley resident who was raised and educated in
this valley and I choose to raise my kids here for many reasons I love Yakima
and all that it has to offer As new council members you have a historic
opportunity to continue to make our city great and I want to see this City Council
use their authority as our representatives by approving construction for the
Gustafson - designed Yakima Central Plaza I believe in the project because it will
enhance public and private use of the downtown, bring business back downtown
and provide a heartbeat for our community. With pledges from the private sector
in hand, and a world -class design at our fingertips, this project is a win -win for
our community I live in Holly Cousens district and want her especially to know
that she needs to represent her district where a vast majority of residents support
the plaza Do your homework and do your job and don't cow to the private
interests of Bill Smith and those opposed to the Plaza idea
Moriet Miketa — morietmiketa(,U-)gmail.com
Tonight you will meet to discuss the opportunity to revitalize and bring life to our
downtown core with a state of the art project. I am in full support of this project
and believe as community voice YOU have the talent, the knowledge and the
ability to make this project happen Please make a commitment for our
downtown, our city and community and VOTE YES for this project It will
become the catalyst for positive change in our community
Bruce Bacon — bruce. bacon (cD-glaaersales.com
I am an owner of a business located in downtown Yakima Glacier Sales is
located at 316 N 3rd St- 98901 1 would encourage all of the council- especially
the representative of the district where my business is located- to support the
Gustafson designed Yakima Central Plaza I believe it is important to support
this project as it will boost not only my business, but be a positive attraction for
new businesses which might be considering coming to the area In addition, this
plaza will have a positive effect on quality of life for residents of this community
and also attract tourism to the area I am very pleased with the recent changes
to the city council, new insights and ideas are of paramount importance to
progress Please continue to go forward with this project as it is a continued step
in the right direction
't , 9
WAS H I N GTO N
�'' FRUIT & PRODUCE CO
P.O BOX 1588 - YAKIMA, WA 98907, USA - PHONE 509457 -6177 - FAX 509-457 -
RECEIVED
CITY OF YAKIMA
February 25, 2016
Members of the City Council,
FFR :2 9 2016
OFFICE OF CITY COUNCIL
If there was ever a time to make a decision that will take downtown Yakima into the future, it is
now Yakima is in the midst of making an amazing transformation to elevate its quality of life.
However, there has yet to be anything that adequately showcases the energy and life that pulses
within this valldy We are presented with an incredible opportunity to revive the heart of our
beautiful city and nobody is pretending it will be easy or without challenges. As with any project
there are those who oppose the change, but it is imperative that the leaders of our community
fight to move forward and take Yakima out of the past. This city and its people are being tested
and future generations will fudge us by how we respond to this test. An historic number of
business leaders are standing up to support the dream of building a downtown to inspire its
residents.
Now it falls to the Council. It is time to reclaim the economic future of our downtown and that
means investing in a public space that all future generations of Yakima can be proud of. This
Council represents a Council of Firsts for Yakima. the first Council with a female majority and
the first Council of three elected Latinos. With your approval of the Yakima Central Plaza, you
will be the first Council to vote in favor of hope and optiniisin and not in favor of fear
Sincerely,
.• _ _.
Corporate Publicist
Washington Fruit and Produce Co.
INDEPENDENT "LIBERTY BELL" APPLES, PEARS AND CHERRIES
Dear Yakima City Council Members.
John I Haas, Inc., a company with broad international connections and deep roots in Yakima, is pleased
to contribute to the fund to construct the Yakima Central Plaza in Downtown Yakima
We clearly see the benefits of this dynamic, well- designed public space
The Yakima Central Plaza will be a powerful visual representation of our community pride Haas works
hard to recruit highly skilled people from within our community and beyond city borders, and an
attractive downtown is vital to our recruiting efforts We believe that an energetic downtown is a
positive factor for potential employees considering moving to Yakima
For current residents, a downtown with vibrant social activities and expanding retail opportunities will
improve the quality of life Yakima's abundant sun and easy access to recreation are great for the
individual, a place where everyone can come together is great for the town and its community spirit
As the CEO of John I Haas, I know that the success of our business depends on the success of our
employees and the community we live in Our contribution of $250,000 to the Yakima Central Plaza in
Downtown Yakima is not only the right business decision, but it is the right thing to do
Alex Barth, CEO
John I Haas, Inc.
Michael J Snyder
February 14, 2016
The Honorable Yakima City Council
City of Yakima
129 North 2nd Street
Yakima, WA 98901
Dear Council Members
'005 Scenic Drive Yakima, Washington 98908
mikesnvier'ti- mikesn dy er.com
303 601 1000 c
bio
Good day My name is iMike Snyder, born and raised in Yakima �4y granddad started a
wholesale bakery in Yakima in 1929, joined by my uncle and dad they built it into one of the larger
and successful wholesale bakeries in the Pacific Northwest.
I lived in Yakima when downtown was vibrant and economically successful Pretty much all of
our Yakima shopping was downtown with the occasional trip way out there to the County Store I
started my own business in Yakima in 1979, then, through expansion and acquisitions spread thru
out the United States and Canada I have returned to Yakima after a long absence, and purchased
a home in Yakima along with my wife Lisa Deccio Snyder
We support investment in downtown Yakima, as demonstrated by our actions Graham Snyder
my son, and Mark DiPietro have created a well - received addition to downtown, Cowiche Canyon
Kitchen & Icehouse A significant investment creating jobs, drawing people to downtown,
increasing tax revenues for the city, and hopefully providing a great experience for its guests We
seldom locate foodservice business in downtowns as the parking, costs, and general economic
climate is challenging Yet, in Yakima, with the parking where the current plaza proposal is, we
felt we could be successful and be a catalyst to help promote downtown development
The objective of investing in downtown for a municipality should be to increase economic activity
To do this, two things need to happen First, a reason to go downtown And second, the ability to
get downtown in a timely fashion, and, to park
The parking study contracted by the city in 2014 concluded downtown Yakima had adequate
parking And, a recent promotional brochure said there are over 4000 parking spaces downtown,
including on- street, private, city and county spaces We believe the number is much lower as the
public cannot park in many of the city, county and private parking spaces counted Without going
deep into this, you can use whatever number of parking spaces you want Irrespective of what one
deems as adequate or inadequate parking, simply attempt to park in core downtown during peak
periods The current parking situation is deterring visitors to downtown during peak times Peak
times are when the majority of retail sales occur.
The city, its architects and designers have created an attractive rendering of a plaza, and we would
love to see something like it somewhere downtown. That said, to simply invest to make downtown
more attractive with event /visiting space without significantly increasing the ability for event and
retail visitors to park downtown is not a good objective Additionally, and as important, attracting
new business to fill the empty space downtown with the current and /or proposed parking is
problematic.
Rapid City and Missoula have presented their views regarding plazas There is one significant
difference between Rapid City/Missoula and Yakima downtowns Rapid City and Missoula have
large parking strictures immediately adjacent to their plazas. Abundant and mostly free
parking during peak retail times.
Rapid City's plaza is 1/2 the size of the proposed. Yakima plaza and has a 560 space parking
structure immediately adjacent to their plaza Destination Rapid. City President said, "Yakima
doesn't have a parking problem, Yakima has a walking problem" I submit- with a 560 parking space
structure immediately adjacent to Rapid City's plaza, they don't have parking or walking problem.
Missoula similar Park Place Structure with 330 spaces immediately adjacent to their plaza
Fred Bruning, Center Cal Properties (Valley Mall) said of the current proposal, "the city (Yakima)
still needs a more coordinated and comprehensive downtown plan My advice (Mr Bruning
continues) Think about the place around it " The Yakima Herald reports, "But while Bruning
supports the plaza, he also stressed to city officials the importance of free and available parking "
INN -ost of us who are in favor, against, or on the fence of the current downtown plaza have an
honorable objective- to care for and nurture Yakima Lets give it our best shot at bringing
downtown back with improved business potential with enhanced ambience and activity
Many believe a revised proposal that incorporates a parking structure and provides an aesthetically
pleasing event area can get done And will help facilitate a much - needed rejuvenation of
downtown Yakima I urge you to consider an alternate plan that is a win for all of Yakima
Sincerely,
March 25, 2015
Yakima Valley Tourism
10 North 81° street
Yakima, WA 98901
T 509 - 575 -3010
F- 509 - 575 -6252
800 -221 -0751
www.yakimavalleytoudsm.com
Mayor Micah Cawley
City Council
City of Yakima
129 N 2nd Street
Yakima, WA 98901
Honorable Mayor and Council
On behalf of the Board of Yakima Valley Tourism, we are proud to endorse and
support the Yakima Downtown Plaza and stand ready to assist with its development.
We believe the plan has vision and is what the community needs to thrive and grow
A vibrant downtown is not only important for our residents, but also the thousands of
visitors who come to the region each year A healthy downtown is also important for
the success of the Yakima Convention Center When selecting event venues,
meeting planners seek a vibrant, thriving destination for their delegates. This Plaza
will help us in our efforts to attract and serve conventions and groups while improving
the quality of life for our residents
Naturally there are many issues to work out. We believe those items are well
addressed in the plan The consultants who have devised the Plaza have an
extensive history and knowledge of what works for downtown redevelopment. We
believe the Plaza is what Yakima needs to grow and succeed
We hope you agree too and fully support the Plaza and keep it advancing through its
process
Sincerely,
ennifer iiesner
Chair of the Board
Price, Cally
From:
Dorian Kensok <dorian k @me com>
Sent:
Tuesday, March 01, 2016 4.27 PM
To:
City Council
Cc:
Dorian Kensok
Subject:
The Plaza is Not an Expense, it's an Investment in our City and our People, Literally
Honorable City Council Members.
First I want to say a big congratulations to the new council members Holly Cousens, Mayor Avma Gutierrez, Dulce Gutierrez and
Carmen Mendez!
I attended many events in support of all of you and I'm proud to have volunteered as well I look forward to seeing what an energized,
progressive city council has in store for the city!
I am writing today to express my support and hopefully change some minds about the Yakima Central Plaza. My reasons for
supporting the plaza are many; to touch on them all would make for a very long letter so I will focus on two points economic benefit,
and the health benefits to the people who live and work in proximity to the future plaza.
Parks, plazas and recreational areas make a tremendous amount of money for communities in both direct monetary gain such
as tourism and city revenue, as well as cost savings such as healthcare savings and pollution.
The Trust for Public Land, a nonprofit that measures, analyzes, and forecast the benefits of parks and other natural lands, has analzyed
various cities and identified six ways that public spaces and park contribute to a city economy in dollar value
Property value
Tourism
Direct use
Health
Community cohesion
Clean water and air
As an example, by using conservative data gathering methods, they have concluded that San Fransico has recieved quantifiable
economic benefits of nearly $1 billion annually Of course we are not San Francisco, far from it; however, it's not hard to see that
even scaled down to our population and area, the ecomonic benefit to our community would be tremendous every year
The other point I would like to make that is closer to my heart in why I wish for a vibrant public space in the heart of our city, and that
is the. physical and mental health benefits that public green spaces bring to those in proximity to them
According to Environmental Health Perspectives, ('a peer- reviewed journal of research for the study of interrelationships between the
envirbnment and human health'), there is irrefutable evidence that `metro nature' areas provide both health (mental and physical) and
economic benefits to citizens I hope you can read the entire study but below are some health benefit highlights
• "Urban forest canopy proximate to households has been associated with higher infant birth weight (Dadvand et al 20 12) and green
urban neighborhoods with reductions in elder mortality (Takano et al 2002) "
• "Studies have found that nature is supportive in human performance situations as evidenced by improved workplace satisfaction
(Kaplan 1993) and high school success."
• "studies have shown how vegetation can contribute to reductions in domestic aggression and violent behaviors (Kuo and
Sullivan 2001), assault, robbery, and burglary (Wolfe and Mennis 2012), and theft (Troy et al 2012) "
• "In resurgent cities, cleaning up vacant lots, restoring parks, and creating community gardens are often markers of community
recovery (Harnik 2010) These acts of civic ecology can lead to social engagement and cohesion, perhaps improving local social
resilience (Krasny and "fidball 2012) "
We look to our leaders to not just say `no we look to leaders who don't just see what is in front of them, but who have a vision of our
future potential, we look to leaders to make it work in the face of controversy Please carefully consider the overwhelming
positives that an investment into the Plaza will do for our community
I respectfully urge those of you who are against the plaza to do your due diligience in investigating the true and real return on
investment that our city will gain. To do otherwise is to fall short in your role as our city leaders.
Thank you so much for your time, I appreciate it, and I look forward to seeing you all on March 8th!
Warm regards,
Dorian Kensok
links.
https: / /www.!pl. or:? /sites /default /files/ cloud. tpl. oriz/ pubs /ccpe- econvalueparks- rpt.pdf
http. / /ehp.niehs.nih.aov/ 1408216/
http. / atunes.or /protecting- environment - benefits -p I .- outdoor space. ,
http. / /www.dec.ny, ,,ov /dots /lands forests pdf /openspaceprzs.pc f
Dorian K Design I Tel. 206 383 5552 1 Fax 206 428 7150 1 www.coroflot_corn /dorian kensok
Price, Cally
From: Claudia Gonzalez <cllarios @aol com>
Sent: Tuesday, March 01, 2016 3 59 PM
To: City Council
Subject: Support of Yakima Plaza
Support of Yakima Plaza
I grew up in the Yakima Valley and this is the place I intend on raising my children and eventually retiring Many people
only focus on the bad Yakima has to offer, I prefer to focus on the good and try to involve myself with what we can do to
benefit this community My husband is an active member of Rotary and we have a strong desire to impact our
community in a positive way We are casting our full support for the downtown plaza and encourage you to support this
as well Let's continue to enhance our downtown area and make it a place people want to come to, not run away from
Not only will this benefit our economic situation but it will be a place to bring our families and make memories for years
to come I want to be able to show off our downtown area and give people a reason to want to visit Yakima and be
proud of it! Bringing the plaza to downtown is just what Yakima desires and what it needs! Please support this and lets
move forward and impact this community in a positive way!
Thank you for taking the time to read this note
Claudia Gonzalez
Price, Cally
From: berno gonzalez <bernog @hotmail com>
Sent: Tuesday, March 01, 2016 2.25 PM
To: City Council
Subject: Yakima Central Plaza
To Whom This May Concern
am writing to you today so that I can voice my onion about the Central Plaza I grew up in the Yakima valley
for the past 38 years ( With a short time away in Portland ) I have seen many changes to our community It's
truly great to see how Yakima has changed My wife and 1 year old baby girl are honored to call Yakima home
We both volunteer through the community and are involved with Rotary With help from company's ( like the
one I work for ) we can make Yakima a dream place to Live, Work and raise a family
The Central Plaza would be a great addition to Yakima We need to get 110% behind this project We need
more business and community leaders to help see this project through Yakima needs this and our community
needs this!
The question is Why not ??
really appreciate you taking your time to read this and consider the Central Plaza
Thank You
Berno Gonzalez
Price, Cally
From: Dirk Bernd <dirk @erickey com>
Sent: Tuesday, March 01, 2016 2.23 PM
To: City Council
Subject: improve our downtown, pro - plaza, yes please
Thank you for what you do for this community I want to share my support for the Central Plaza
The City itself and us the tax payers have spent, a good amount of time and money to get to the point of where we are
today So far to date we have over 4 75million in private donations and let me add, huge support not just from one or
two families but multiple families. This is an tipping point, not just for the city of Yakima, but for our entire Valley The
City is a gathering point and with the amount of support these families showing, I feel will just cause more families with
the means to support future projects This is the tip of the ice -berg, our city needs to re- invest in itself These private
and tax dollars being spent are actually monies that we can see, and use I understand we need roads and police, but so
many of my tax dollars get spent in ways I don't see or use I want to see this plaza be built and have a great center
piece to the valley to attract new faces and bring back people that grew up here The downtown has made tremendous
strides over the last 7 -10 years. This will create more investment by the private sector, to occupy vacant buildings,
attract more wineries down town, more breweries, more retail Don't stop this momentum, please keep it rolling this
community and valley need this project.
Please represent me and vote to support this plaza and invest our city funds in this project Thank you for your time
Dirk Bernd
tl Lcn!onard Rick
http . / /www.Ip1.com /leonard.rickey
http. / /www.erickey.com
a] t ),
Leonard Rickey Investment Advisors, P L.L.0
3908 Creekside Loop
Suite 100
Yakima, WA 98901
(509) 972 3686
295 Bradley Blvd
Suite 201
Richland, WA 99352
(509) 943 0200
6501 Perimeter Road South
Seattle, WA 98108
(425) 644 7877
Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA /SIPC Investment advice offered through Leonard Rickev Investment
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Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA /SIPC investment advice offered through Leonard Ricke) Investment Advisors. PLLC a registered investment advisor
and separate entity from LPL Financial
Caution. Electronic mail sent through the internet is not secure and can be intercepted by a third part) For your protection, Leonard Rickey Investment Advisors, P L L C sends
all personal idenuf},ing information through a secure server Any replies to Leonard Rickey Investment Advisor P L L C s electronic mail is unsecure and mad be intercepted by a
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please immediately delete
Price, Cally
From: Sandi <sandibelzer @charter net>
Sent: Tuesday, March 01, 2016 9.15 AM
To: City Council
Subject: Plaza(s)
Dear Council,
I would like to strongly urge you to consider the alternative plaza plan Two major flaws in the original plan are a lack of
parking and the water attraction that I see as a homeless magnet
The prior council not only took the promised advisory vote from the people, they also cancelled the study session for the
proposed alternative plaza That is an egregious disservice to the citizens You have the opportunity to right these
wrongs
The two cities that have been showcased as major plaza successes both have public parking garages adjacent or very
near their plazas This vital information was not shared during past plaza presentations This begs the question, "Why
not ?"
Surveys ask if people would walk a few blocks to an event. This is a bit disingenuous They should also ask how far
people will walk to enjoy a meal out or while carrying purchases.
Another deceptive move by planners was the counting of privately owned parking as available to the public If the plan
is so great and well thought out, why is this deception necessary?
The alternative plan includes a public garage Yakima cannot afford to lose prime public. parking Please schedule the
before promised study session for this plan and give the citizens a choice
Thank you,
Sandi Belzer
Sent from my iPhone
1
Distributed at the
Meeting 3-1-1j'—
Memorandum
February 16, 2016
To City Council Member Kathy Coffey
From Brett Sheffield, Chief Engineer
Subject. Sidewalk on 16th Avenue
Thank you for your interest in construction of sidewalks on 16th Avenue The stretches of 16th
Avenue that do not have sidewalk include
• River Road to Hathaway Street (600 feet north of Fruitvale Boulevard) on the east side of
16th Avenue
• River Road to `J' Street on the west side of 1611 Avenue
• Hathaway Street to Garfield Avenue (300 feet north of Lincoln Avenue) on the west side of
1611 Avenue
• Nob Hill Boulevard to Washington Avenue on the west side of 1611 Avenue
In order for a location to be eligible to receive "Safe Routes to School" funding, it needs to be in
close proximity to a school Several schools include 16th Avenue on their "recommended
walking routes " These areas stretch from Lincoln Avenue to Washington Avenue Therefore,
the missing sections of sidewalk between Nob Hill and Washington on the west side of 16th
Avenue are eligible for "Safe Routes to School" funding
On January 20, 2016, 1 met with Carl Easter and Shirley Jenkins of the Yakima School District,
Shawn Conrad of the Yakima Valley Conference of Governments, and Sheryl DiPietro of the
Department of Health to strategize for the upcoming "Safe Routes to School" funding application
(notice of the funding was received the following day, January 21St) Last year, the City of
Yakima was successful in receiving two "Safe Routes to School" grants — one for the area
around Garfield Elementary and one for the area around Adams Elementary and Washington
Middle School During the meeting, Shirley stated that the staff at McKinley Elementary and the
staff at Nob Hill Elementary have expressed interest in applying for a grant during this call for
projects Although the City can only apply for these grants, cooperation and help from the
schools is required
I believe that McKinley Elementary is looking at help in locations closer to the school, however,
the missing section of sidewalk on the west side of the road between Nob Hill and Washington
is within their "recommended walking route " When we meet with them, I will suggest that this
section of sidewalk be included in the application for their school