Major Incidents Call For CodeRED Calling

When disaster strikes and wide spread communication is needed, the City of SeaTac relies on the CodeRED Emergency Notification System. This tool is an ultra high-speed telephone communication service capable of dialing up to 50,000 phone numbers per hour and delivering recorded messages to a live person or an answering machine, making three attempts to connect to any number. However, this system is only as good as the telephone number database that supports it. If your contact information is not in the database you will not receive a call when an urgent message is sent.

All individuals and businesses are encouraged to visit the City website, create a secured CodeRED Account and add contact information in order to receive these critical emergency communications. Required information includes a street address (physical address, no P.O. boxes) for location purposes and a primary phone number. Alternate numbers such as cellular phones and other non-traditional phones as well as email and text addresses may also be entered. 

Are You Prepared To Receive The Call

Next week the City of SeaTac Fire Department will be utilizing the CodeRed Emergency Notification System to call the entire community. This call will give city personnel the chance to operate the systems as if there has been a community wide disaster. The message that is being delivered directs recipients to the City web site to add additional contact numbers, and it also asks that recipients spread the word by mentioning the system to family, friends and neighbors. Questions about the CodeRed Program should be directed to SeaTac Fire Department at 206.973.4520.

Shoreline Management Plan Nearly Approved

It was recently reported in the Highline Times that the Burien Shoreline Management Plan that was derived with the ‘help’ of residents from Three Tree Point and Lake Burien along with their hired attorneys could ultimately  wind up being rejected by the state Department of Ecology. I am happy to report that may not be the case for the SeaTac Program.

The Shorelands and Environmental Assistance representative, David Pater, has informed us that the SeaTac SMP has been accepted by the Department of Ecology with final approval being conditioned on the SeaTac City Council agreeing to revisions correcting a few minor typographical errors.  As I understand it, if the City returns written agreement to these changes then the SMP is approved and this will bring closure to the long arduous process of creating an acceptable plan.  Congratulations to all who have been involved in getting this approved. 

History:

Beginning in January 2008 the City began the process of updating its Shoreline Master Program as required by State law.  During this time the City created a Citizen's Advisory Committee which met throughout 2008 and 2009 and the recommendations derived from this committee were incorporated into the draft SMP document and regulations. Additional input was received through two separate open houses and numerous Land Use and Parks Committee meetings.  The SMP was approved by the SeaTac City Council in July 2010 and forwarded to the State at that time for review.  It is expected that the SMP will receive final approval in this first quarter of 2011.

OMG watz OHWM?!

If you live along the shores of Angle Lake you might have heard the term “ORDINARY HIGH WATER MARK” (OHWM). This line of reference is an important marker in relation to meeting setback requirements when developing new or expanding existing structures toward the shoreline.

The term “ordinary high water mark” is used in the Washington State Department of Ecology Shoreline Management Act (RCW 90.58.030 – 2c):

"Ordinary high water mark" on all lakes, streams, and tidal water is that mark that will be found by examining the bed and banks and ascertaining where the presence and action of waters are so common and usual, and so long continued in all ordinary years, as to mark upon the soil a character distinct from that of the abutting upland, in respect to vegetation as that condition exists on June 1, 1971, as it may naturally change thereafter, or as it may change thereafter in accordance with permits issued by a local government or the department…”

In the case of Angle Lake the OHWM is a line around the shoreline defined by an elevation of 350.54’ above sea level.   For building purposes, this line is typically established through licensed survey services but just in case you happen to be curious about where the OHWM falls along the shoreline and you don’t wish to spend the money for your own survey, today is your lucky day.

ALSC President Lonnie Goulet reports that he recently had a topographical survey of his property completed and has marked the OHWM with a couple of posts located at each end of his bulkhead located along the shoreline.  As of 3:00 pm on the 17th of January 2011 the water level is approximately 2.5” above the OHWM for Angle Lake.  If anyone would like an update as to the current level of the lake in relation to the OHWM please feel free to contact Lonnie and he will be glad to take a reading in the event you would like to mark this line on your shoreline.

Not A Seahawks Fan?

What a week it's been for the NFL Seahawk Football Fans.  It seems no matter where you turned for News or Entertainment, there is always a mention of the Seahawks. From stories on National News covering Marshawn Lynch’s incredible touchdown run and the Pacific Northwest Seismic Network reporting a small tremor as a result. Out on the internet with the YouTube video controversy about the 20 oz cup holding the exact same amount of beer as the 16 oz cup but selling for a dollar fifty more and even on our city sidewalks where hordes of fans gathered for a chance to cheer the team on as they head out of SeaTac for what we hope to be another win against the Chicago Bears!

But what if you’re just not into football?  Well… It Sucks To Be You!  

Nah, just kidding.  There is another option for quality entertainment for you to enjoy.  The Highline Historical Society is offering a free performance of “Eleanor Roosevelt: No Ordinary Woman” this Sunday, January 16th at 2:00 PM.

The production will outline Eleanor’s transformational journey from her shy, awkward childhood, to the White House, and later to the United Nations.  Eleanor Roosevelt has emerged as one of the most influential civil rights advocates of the 20th century.  In addition to the play, the presentation will include discussions on evolving attitudes toward the equality of women, civil rights, human rights, politics and freedom. It is reported that this program is suitable for middle school students and up.

The presentation will take place at SeaTac City Hall, 4800 S 188th Street, in SeaTac. Adminssion and Parking are Free however, charitable donations will be accepted.

Seahawk Fans - Rally Friday at Valley Ridge!

This just in from the Seahawks Training Center:  Seahawk fans are invited to help send off the team to Chicago from five points along the bus route to SeaTac Airport on Friday afternoon. Key locations will be overpasses in Renton, Tukwila and at our own Valley Ridge Park off 188th right here in SeaTac!

It is reported that free coffee and donuts will be available at the park and that fans will be given various Seahawks items (12th MAN Flags, rally cards, rally towels, etc.) to wave to the team buses and various passersby in a display of their 12th MAN spirit. The Sea Gals, Blitz and Blue Thunder are expected to be on location to join the fans in a show of support.

Organizers are encouraging people to start gathering by 1:00 PM in the park in preparation for the caravan of team buses to pass by at around 1:45 PM.  Come join with neighbors in support of today's hottest Seattle Sports Team, have some fun, and get some free stuff!  

GO SEAHAWKS!