Sometimes government moves slow, like it’s pedaling up a steep hill, but other times it seems like it’s racing for the finish line.
The latter is the case for a bike corral in downtown Winslow. The idea was brought up recently as part of changes in downtown parking. And it’s already wheeling forward, as it’s on the Bainbridge Island City Council agenda for Tuesday.
The council is expected to authorize the corral for 10 bikes on the north side of Winslow Way, adjacent to striping and a tree. The city’s Sustainable Transportation Plan calls for such mobility hubs to encourage cycling by providing convenient and secure bike parking near popular destinations. Cost is estimated at $8,000.
Also at the meeting, Robin Koskey, Puget Sound Regional Council Government Relations and Communications, will give a presentation on fiscal impacts of the repeal of the Climate Commitment Act. Koskey is asking the city to prepare a resolution in opposition to Initiative 2117 for council consideration. That initiative would repeal the act.
The state plans to cut pollution by 95% by 2050 using the act, which is a market-based system that cost effectively lowers greenhouse gas emissions. At least 35% of revenue directly benefits vulnerable populations in overburdened communities providing environmental justice, a Powerpoint presentation says. A declining regulatory cap on climate pollution requires emissions reductions and drives investment in decarbonization.
The investments are huge. Just over the next two years the budget is almost $1.39 billion in capital, $1.32 billion in transportation and $683 million in operating expenses. The budget for transportation is $563 million for ferries, $429 million for public transit, $105 million for electrical vehicle charging, and $130 million for commercial vehicles, schools buses and more. Clean buildings include $136 million to electrify higher education campuses and $115 million for low-income folks to electrify homes and businesses.
The council plans to set a public hearing for Aug. 13 on the multi-family tax exemption at Finch Green. The council is looking to expand the exemption to allow it just outside the previously designated area. The goal of the exemption is to encourage affordable housing. The law allows exemptions for 12 or 20 years. Bethany Lutheran Church is donating a portion of its land for the project, in partnership with Housing Resources Bainbridge.
The council also will update local parking regulations, which were last changed in 2010. Changes previously announced include more vehicle parking and less for vehicles with boat trailers, three-hour time limits in certain areas and no more preferential neighborhood parking in certain areas.
The council plans to confirm the scope of a federal grant for the Sound to Olympics Trail that will include 100% design and construction for the Sakai Pond Trail and 100% design for the selected alternative for the Copper Top/Middle School segment.
On the consent agenda, one item requests more than $676,000 for the Country Club Bulkhead Repair Project. The council also plans a proclamation announcing July “Disability Pride Month.”
