The Normandy Park City Council meeting held on Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025 addressed several key topics, ranging from gathering citizen feedback to planning improvements for City Hall and its adjacent park.

Councilmembers approved an energy audit for City Hall, to assess its long-term viability and potential for energy upgrades.

They explored options for enhancing City Hall Park, including shade structures, a drinking fountain, and potentially Wi-Fi connectivity.

Additionally, the council formed a new legislative committee to advocate for the city, and received updates on relevant state legislation impacting homelessness and traffic enforcement.

Citizen Satisfaction Survey

City Manager Amy Arrington shared that the Citizen Satisfaction survey is now live on the city website. She reported that over the last few days there have been 24 survey responses, and they are excited to get more feedback from the community. You can find the link and a QR code for the survey here, as well as a description of how the feedback will be utilized.

City Hall Building Evaluation

The council approved a contract with G&O for an evaluation and energy audit of City Hall. The building could qualify for grants that would pay for energy updates. Things like windows, insulation, and mechanical systems could all potentially be made more efficient. In addition, the evaluation should determine how many years the building could remain in use. Results from the audit should be back by late spring or early summer.

City Hall Park Improvements

The council discussed potential improvements to City Hall Park. G&O is also being consulted on this project, which could include the installation of a drinking fountain and a seasonal shade structure. Councilmember Mike Bischoff mentioned that it’s hard to balance the occasional need for shade on the hottest days with the general desire for sun the rest of the time. Mayor Zimmerman said that during the summer heat, the shadier Marvista Park gets crowded while City Hall Park empties out. Councilmember Sue-Ann Hohimer added that at City Hall Park, the play structure itself gets hot to the touch on summer days.

Another improvement under consideration at City Hall Park is Wi-Fi connectivity. The entire council seemed to agree that people need internet connectivity at the park, and they might approve spending as much as $1,000 a month to provide it for park-goers. This will be discussed in more detail after getting numbers on the true cost of installation and service.

New Legislative Committee Formed

Councilmembers volunteered to be part of a new legislative committee, to help advocate with the government on the city’s behalf. Councilmembers Jack Lamanna and Mike Bishoff, and Mayor Eric Zimmerman will be members of the new committee, with Councilmember Sheri Healey as an alternate.

Mayor Zimmerman gave an update on a couple of legislative items. House Bill 1380, which would limit cities’ ability to respond to homelessness and resolve encampments passed by one vote; however Zimmerman said there is no companion bill in the senate, so it is not likely to become law.

Mayor Zimmerman also discussed HB 1512, which will strictly limit police enforcement of traffic violations. This bill does have a companion bill in the senate. Chief Dan Yourkoski added that a prohibition on traffic stops is problematic, as well as being an overreach by the state. Zimmerman will be testifying on this bill, along with other mayors.