The City of Edmonds’ newly established online portal to report incidents of bias, discrimination and hate — which has generated controversy among community members concerned about potential privacy and legal ramifications — became a flashpoint for debate at Tuesday’s Edmonds City Council meeting.
The evening started with Councilmember Vivian Olson’s agenda amendment to include a discussion of pausing the portal — an effort that failed, following later council discussion, on a 3-3 vote (one abstention). The meeting ended with a defiant speech by Edmonds Mayor Mike Nelson, who pointed to national studies showing that many hate crimes go unreported and that collecting the data is an important step in addressing the issue.
Some residents, the mayor said, are “making a mockery attempting to address the real problem facing every community. I will not be silenced by those who want to peddle this fear and intimidation and continue to be a voice for those who don’t have a voice.”
In announcing the launch of the portal two weeks ago, the city said it is monitored and reviewed by city staff, with incidents logged and then forwarded to the appropriate department. While every incident may not result in a resolution, keeping a log and tracking this information allows the city to track data and identify trends, the announcement said.
In speaking to her motion to pause the portal “until full vetting and legal analysis is conducted,” Olson noted that she feared the city was “setting ourselves up for possible liability and unintended consequences that have not been fully thought through.”
Council President Paine said she would like to delay the pause because the Edmonds Diversity Commission has a meeting Wednesday night and she wanted to hear their thoughts on the portal’s implementation so far. (The idea for the portal had first been discussed by the commission.)
“I think we do need to have a presentation at some point,” Paine said. “But right now it’s a bit premature.”
Councilmembers Diane Buckshnis said she disagreed, adding she had “worked in Lithuania and Kazakhstan, both post-Communistic countries, and I know what it’s like to be a snitch or spy on your neighbor. I just think there’s too much ramifications of having it used improperly and we have had a number of examples brought forth.”
“At this juncture I believe it’s dangerous for the city,” Buckshnis added.
In reply, Nelson snapped: “Council should refrain from language that it’s dangerous to the city.”
The pause was also supported by Councilmember Kristiana Johnson, who said she would like to get legal advice on the matter.
Speaking in favor of the portal, Councilmember Laura Johnson said that in her own research on hate reporting, she found a list of other government entities that have places to report such incidents, including Seattle, King County, Philadelphia, Eugene, Portland, New York City, Eden Prairie, Minn. and Spokane. “It is something that is recommended by groups that work to combat hate,” she said.
Laura Johnson then asked Lighthouse Law Group’s Tom Brubaker — filling in for City Attorney Jeff Taraday at Tuesday’s meeting — if there were legal concerns surrounding the portal. He replied that it’s not likely the city will incur legal liability but more research needs to be done. Brubaker also indicted that any vote the council takes on the matter would likely be advisory, because the mayor was exercising his administrative function in creating the portal.
Olson argued that the community is “coming out in very large numbers…upset by this. Most of the people who are most upset are people who have personally lived in places where systems like this have been used and abused…and they weren’t just communist, there were some times totalitarian, facist right wing so this isn’t a political comment that I’m making,” she added.
“I’ll just remind the council,” Nelson replied, ” we are not a communist, facist, we are a democratic, elected institution.”
Councilmember Luke Distelhorst said that as the council liaison to the Diversity Commission, he had no hand in creating the portal but he did have a chance to sit in on commission discussions when members described being called racial slurs “and it’s not a crime because there’s not a threat of violence. This is a problem. It’s a problem in our community,” he said.
“This is not a snitch list. This is not McCarthyism. This is not a communist, totalitarian, facist, Nazi country like some people said last week,” Distelhorst added, referring to residents who attended the July 27 council meeting to express concerns about the portal, among other matters. “This is a country where people should be able to live free from being called racial slurs.”
The final vote on the portal pause was 3-3, with Olson, Buckshnis and Kristiana Johnson supporting and Paine, Laura Johnson and Distelhorst opposed, and Councilmember Adrienne Fraley-Monillas abstaining.
As part of his mayor’s comments, Nelson also criticized the gathering of about 75 people at last week’s council meeting, where they offered public comment about a range of issues, from speeding on local streets to protection of single-family zoning. Nelson described many of those attending as “partisan campaign people” there to “bully, harass specific elected officials and our city staff by a local city council candidate’s campaign.” While Nelson didn’t name the candidate, Position 2 council candidate Janelle Cass was in attendance, as were a group of her supporters and her campaign manager.
The mayor noted that the group began gathering outside around 5 p.m. and “they were seen drinking beforehand,” adding that “these candidate’s supporters called us facists, Nazis, communists.”
Supporters in attendance “repeatedly called out their opponent,” Nelson said, presumably referring to Distelhorst, also running for election to Position 2. “They threatened and demonized city staff and certain elected officials,” the mayor added.
“There is a difference between expressing concerns over neighborhood traffic problems and calling your democratic elected officials Nazis,” Nelson said. The mayor said he was also troubled that “there was no condemnation or apology from the candidate for this extremist conduct,” adding that current and former elected officials also failed to publicly condemn the actions of those gathered last week.
At one point during the mayor’s remarks, Councilmember Olson raised a point of order, noting that she didn’t believe officials were allowed to talk during a council meeting about elections since it was campaign season. Nelson replied that he was no longer talking about elections, adding he was now going to comment on the hate and bias portal.
“We all need to be civil whether we are doing political rhetoric or not,” Nelson said. “And what we saw was not political rhetoric. It was uncivil behavior that has no place, particularly in a city council chambers. We’ve made it easier to report hate incidents and I believe we’ll keep it (the portal) up and running for as long needed.”
In other council business Tuesday night, the council:
– Discussed in detail and made some changes to proposed council rules of procedure, but those rules will be further reviewed by the city attorney.
– Approved an agreement between the Edmonds Chamber of Commerce and the city for the Taste Edmonds event known this year as Taste Twenty-One, set for Aug. 20-22 at the Frances Anderson Playfield. Due to the change of venue from Civic Field, where construction on a new park will begin soon, this year’s event has a smaller footprint that requires all attendees to be 21 or older.
– Approved a vacation accrual rate for a wastewater treatment plant supervisor candidate.
– Extended for nine months the continuation of a temporary policy to accommodate emergency sick leave for employees exposed to COVID-19.
– Delayed until a future meeeting a proposal to extend an interim ordinance that prevents the cutting of landmark trees.
You can watch the full video of Tuesday’s council meeting here.
— By Teresa Wippel
Mayor Nelson continues his pattern of attacking Edmonds residents when they disagree/challenge him and ducking personal accountability.
Exactly. As does Council-member Frailles-Monillas. There is never any accountability taken by either, only deflection and projection.
If the Mayor had done a thorough vetting of the portal, presented his vision to the community in a balanced and comprehensive way, and allowed /considered the public to comment before launching it, perhaps people wouldn’t be so up in arms. It was interesting to hear last night that the Diversity Commission were potentially not at the point to launch it- I’m interested to learn more about this.
His poor leadership and repeated refusal to accept any accountability are a huge issue for me and he seems to make everything a binary choice and misses the mark consistently.
What I took away from the Mayor’s closing comments last night:
If you are concerned about the portal stepping on civil liberties and causing division in our community, you are politically-motivated, uncivilized and uninformed and clearly don’t care about those who are affected by racism, bias, and discrimination- so you need to shut up and sit down.
It’s possible to be against racism and discrimination while also defending everyone’s civil liberties from government overreach.
I can reject all racism, bias and discrimination against any person and at the same time I also feel compelled to defend the right to privacy and freedom of speech.
It’s not a binary choice.
And lastly, I would like to correct my comments from last night’s meeting when I implied that CM Luke Distelhorst had championed the portal- and I will take his word that he did not play a direct role in the decision to launch it (my paraphrased and interpretation of his comments, not his words).
I extend my sincere apologies for misspeaking.
Why is the Mayor presiding over the City Council meeting? Why is he allowed to arrogantly “correct” the speech of council members at will., as they are discussing business before the council? Is it not the Council President that should be presiding? His.presence is an unnecessary distraction. He needs to tend to his own Mayoral duties, and allow the council to attend to theirs.
Look at the bright side, in a short while, Nelson will be thrown out of office, and he can vanish into the weeds.
Mayor Nelson, your “world view” is so toxic and partisan that you would not know Truth even if you took off your blinders and met it face-to-face. Your “reality” is based on dividing and untruths. Edmonds now sees the hoax that you have brought to this city, along with your Gang of Four.
Mayor Nelson,
Why would you NOT “pause” an action such as the portal until we had the full picture?
We need to understand what is qualifying “hate” reportings (Is it racism?, a difference of opinion?, or someone not getting their way?). What are the steps regarding a report (notification of involved parties, investigation of compliant, removal of, etc.–so many questions), and legal issues that surround the portal.
Any action taken without being clear and concise about the process and legal liability is not acceptable.. Is this type of portal really a good decision for the City? You have taken a very divisive and non-inclusive approach to this issue.
Of course citizens are going to respond in angry and frustration when you choose to label their communication negatively and move forward without considering the concerns. So far, we are still a democracy and the citizens have a right to freedom speech. Your reaction does not portray a representative officer of the City.
I could not have said this any better. Short, and to the point. My offer still stands Mayor, drive the asphalt truck for two days and I will bring my shovel to fill pot holes. No charge!
Well said!
Nelson has successfully turned a non-partisan office into a progressive, partisan soap-box. As an elected official who is supposed to represent all individuals of Edmonds, regardless of their political affiliation, he is critical of those who think and express opposing viewpoints.
A solid leader is one who listens, commits to growth, encourages differing viewpoints, and is inclusive. Nelson’s actions and responses appear to be a bit reckless and defensive – but perhaps I’m not seeing the full picture.
Well said Mike and my thoughts exactly. I will add this is all while ignoring very real and increasing issues in our city like crime and homelessness.
So that everyone is aware, what constitutes hate speech?
The fact that he doesn’t even see this portal as nothing more than a problem waiting to happen..is beyond me. Ok so what happens if someone tattles on someone and says so and so threatened me. And the city can’t do anything without proof. And something g happens to said tattler….city sued for prior knowledge??? One of a million lawsuits.
Nelson knows all of his ‘back pocket’ council members are getting bounced and he is in full on panic mode. His comments here are completely unprofessional and one of the many reasons I look forward to voting him out.
Yes. I believe it is imperative. Look what happened to Durkin…she isn’t running…too much shame when you, some believe, destroy a city.
We have much more to see…..unfortunately.
Seattle bashing doesn’t sit well with me. It’s a large city, with a completely different socio economic base. There is no comparison to Edmonds. How many people in Edmonds are able to afford living here because they made their money in Seattle? I know I did. Doubtful I would of been able to buy a home in Edmonds if it wasn’t for Seattle’s hot economy for so many years. I am at best disheartened reading the comments bashing Seattle along with other neighboring communities as failed or less than Edmonds. These kind of comments aren’t solving anything and instead paint some Edmonds residents as pretty small minded humans. My two cents.
Connie, I’m guessing you didn’t grow up in Seattle back when it was a beautiful, safe, clean city (it was voted one of the cleanest cities in the country…..imagine that). It is HEARTBREAKING to see what’s happened to Seattle, and even more so because the degradation could have been avoided if only those in power used compassionate common sense when making decisions. My two cents.
No one in Seattle or Edmonds would be able to eat if not for some back water farmer thats willing to grow food affordably. You’re not making a good argument for why Seattle is becoming a s-hole country.
Annon, your comment is certainly worth more than two cents., as always, well thought out and lots of truth and honesty. Thank you.
Annan I was born at Swedish hospital and raised in Seattle excepting a few years in the Bay Area. It’s not that I don’t see the degradation of beautiful areas of Seattle by encampments. My best friend lives on Queen Anne and she’s surrounded by it. There are however still many reasons to love and spend time in Seattle. My reason for commenting was I have seen Edmonds commenters diminishing other cities as less than Edmonds. On some fundamental level when a persons stance is backed by diminishing the value of another place or person, I have a negative reaction. Yesterday’s reaction was a cumulative reaction to reading this type of comment. My apologies if I offended anyone.
Connie, all are welcome here. My family nearly moved to Portland 15 years ago. Portland, in my opinion, was the most beautiful and open-minded place on the planet. Everyone was kind and lighthearted, and weird. Now it is a militant fascist enclave, where everyone is too serious, and it feels like people are wading into conversations two or three sentences hoping to be offended by something. You should be upset about Seattle and the first to complain about Edmonds being their lapdog.
Connie, no apology necessary as far as I’m concerned; I wasn’t offended by your comment. It is a little confusing to me because it seems as though you’re saying that because people may have benefited from a hot Seattle economy, they should accept the sad state the city finds itself in. And anyone who is concerned that Edmonds might be headed in a similar direction is small minded. I think I understand part of what you’re saying (if not, please correct me!), that if someone feels the need to bash another, in this case, city in order to feel superior, then that’s “at best” disheartening. On this we agree! Maybe that’s what you were referring to as small minded?
I also must admit that I’m very sensitive about Seattle, and it truly breaks my heart every time I go in to the city (which isn’t often anymore). It’s incredibly frustrating to me that the citizens of Seattle keep re-electing people to positions of power who don’t appear to have a lick of common sense. I don’t want Edmonds to follow suit.
So any speech or activity Mike Nelson does not like is “uncivil”? His unilateral “we will keep the portal up and running as long as needed” proclamation in the face of resistance from the citizenry is “Orwellian” indeed. Apparently he does not believe in “Free Speech” , only “approved” speech and he, and his staff are to be the arbiters of that. I would point out , there is no Constitutional right to “not be offended” from time to time and if you think you have that right , you have been lied to.
This is rich. Partisan is a hefty word for theater to throw around. Look at the endorsement lists for candidates. Look at his previous endorsements. It is clear that the majority of partisan thought is coming from the top.
On another note, I too did research on bias portal reporting. All of the cities mentioned, in addition to the numerous public institutions and private companies, have clear outlined processes, detailed remediation steps, unambiguous annual reporting, and concise reporting structures made up of either 3rd party reviewers or internal staff well trained and versed in bias speech, bias crimes, hate speech, and hate crimes.
Speech, in my simple understanding, or an act of bias, is not illegal until it infringes upon certain rights (employment, housing, physical safety) and speech designed to tgreaten, slander, or incite violence crosses the line. Does that mean we should tolerate it? No. Does that mean we should have a portal that we call out by name every biased person that displays biased behavior? That would be every citizen in Edmonds and the United States. Bias is inherent. When does it cross the line?
Is the Economic Development Director qualified to opine? Should a City Administrator even have access to this portal (remember, the Administration is led by a clearly politically ideological executive. Does he define what the incidents are)
So to the Councilmembers that voted yes, what say you? What is the review process? What is the remediation process? How are you going to insure a fair and impartial review of each reported incident? What statistics and data (heat maps, race based, age based, sexual orientation based, gender based, religion based) are you going to present to the town to help all Citizens become aware? How are you going to mitigate potential misunderstanding that is classed as a bias complaint? How are you going to report complaints that have risen to civil or criminal actions?
I don’t take issue with portal. I take issue with the haphazard introduction and poorly thought out process with appropriate 3rd party oversight and clear remediation and protection for all.
100% concur. Well stated!!
George thank you for your well thought comments!
I would add, most people are not seeing the forest for the trees. The hate portal is a violation of constitutional rights to free speech and the right to privacy and our democracy is being hijacked right before our eyes. If we don’t stand up to this Bureaucratic bullying “democracy” we might as well move to a communist country!
Sadly, this leaves the citizenry of Edmonds only one choice with respect to Mayor Nelson … sigh!
Exactly Mike Schindler. I agree with the other comments as well. I was not at the meeting but residents should be allowed the speak their opinions to our city council. Crazy to think otherwise.
This hate crime reporting portal is pathetic. For the mayor to endorse a method that allows citizens to tattletail on anyone that they, in their OPINION, think has committed a hate crime, is disgraceful. All Nelson and his favored council members are doing is dividing our city. What little problems we had, have now become major issues.
I think citizens should do their research and maybe contact some of the former council members or even Mayors to discuss past comments or opinions that have been coming forth during what former Mayor used to call, “silly season”. I have been personally attacked on the dais by other councilmembers or even the administration (or the infamous bully pulpit) over the past decade, but that’s just part of the job. I am elected to serve the citizens of this city and yes sometimes I need to have tough skin or hard shell on my back. Remember all the “you are not a CPA” attacks I received so how could I understand municipal finance?
And yes, sometimes I need to bring factual information forward that may not comply to the current simple majority. I was criticized last night for my comment the previous week regarding the $1.75mm American Rescue Plan money set aside for green infrastructure (in addition to the $3.5mm). I do not believe 42% of those funds should be placed in this category when there are “human needs” (local businesses, non-profits, citizens) that are more pressing; and that is my position and I hope to continue to fight for those funds to be restructured as I do listen to our citizens. Go to the City website and look for any support or definition of green streets?
While I wish we could all be civil and professional – the bottled up anger and frustration over the past 17 months can create havoc and passionate language. But no one should be shamed or blamed and let’s just try and have teaching moments of realizing diplomacy.
Thank you. That’s enough said.
Glad you are there!
Thank you Diane for standing up to Nelson and AFM, and supporting the Citizens who profoundly disagree with their politicized choices.
I like you! I liked you during the open to citizens council meeting. You seemed to be genuinely interested. I respect you for that too. That’s it. I just thought you would like to know you are appreciated. ✌.
If the mayor submitted to the portal his perceived bias of 75 community members against a councilmember, then perhaps he could feel better and rest assured that he was being heard, rather than monologuing at the Council meeting.
And with the mention of Seattle having a similar portal, how’s that working for them?
Maybe really well if that portal is what led to the arrest of the felon who recently refused to stop for law enforcement in the Everett Home Depot parking lot month and simply drove away since pursuit of the Class C felony suspect who had just committed a hate crime is no longer allowed by our legislature. But if his arrest was the result of good ol’ fashioned police work, then I guess I’m still waiting for a real example of the benefit of the portal.
Which City Council Candidate is partisan for not supporting the online portal? All except Distelhorst have said they do not support the portal in principle and/or implementation. The partisan candidate supported the portal.
On July 19, 2021, Mayor Mike Nelson’s administration falsely represented that the new reporting tool was recommended by the Edmonds Diversity Commission.
That July 19th announcement said that the new website portal gives residents a place to let the City know about non-criminal issues of concern.
All that was requested last night was a “pause”.
This “non-criminal” reporting tool caused concern from some of the citizens Mayor Nelson was elected to work for. What does “non-criminal” mean and who defines such?
In this situation, Mayor Nelson took administrative action before listening to many citizens, even before the Diversity Commission had vetted such and voted on whether to recommend a portal.
As the portal is for “non-criminal” reporting, should Mayor Nelson have disclosed City staff’s qualifications to keep a log and track this information? Are City staff trained to track data and identify trends related to non-criminal reports?
Mayor Nelson made political comments from the dais last night during a campaign season. The General Election is still months away.
He also claimed last week’s packing of Council chambers was a partly organized effort by a partisan campaign to bully, harass specific elected officials and our City Staff by a City Council Candidate campaign.
Is this true or is this something made up like the original representation that the new reporting tool was recommended by the Edmonds Diversity Commission?
Nobody I know was there related to an organized effort by a partisan campaign.
Where have the civil police been during Mike Nelson’s term as Mayor? Mayor Nelson has refused to respond to all my emails about a wide variety of topics including illegal Mayoral and City government conduct. My experience with Mayor Nelson is that he chooses not to be civil. When I email Mayor Nelson or make public comments, all I get in return is crickets, nothing, not a peep.
Again, all that was requested was a “pause”. Is that so unreasonable? The City Attorney said more legal research is needed.
It’s going to be one tough year ahead for this Mayor. His arrogance is astonishing. He is dangerous to our community, full stop. Bring in the new!!
Laura Johnson”s list of ‘other govt entities” using similar portals reads like a who’s who list of failed cities, failed leaders, failed mayors and failed city councils. Seattle, Philadelphia, Portland, New York City, Minneapolis……….. Really???? No Thanks. As for our fragile Mayor… is LAME DUCK a trigger name that could get me reported to the PORTAL? If so I want to take this opportunity to apologize to all the Ducks of the world before I head to PORTAL Purgatory.
All I have to say here is that while Mayor Nelson may claim ”we are not a communist, facist, we are a democratic, elected institution.” but if it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck am I supposed to believe it’s not a duck?
Speech that is intended to insult, offend, or intimidate a person because of some trait (as race, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, or disability). Now how do you enforce this as an officer of the law or court. How do you prove you saw it? How do they stop something long past. Minimum it would take a couple days for the comment to even be seen. It is just going to be more unanswered questions. More people if they use it who will be waiting and angry or they wouldn’t have called or written the Portal. So when they get their reply what does it say? Thanks for all of your personal info…. Lets say I am sitting on my porch and two people pass on the street and one says you are a *** something meant to be derogatory, to the other. Ok that was hate speech so what then you call or write all of this and sign it and send it in and wait for we haven’t been told how long or if…And then those two passing on the street people, you don’t know them, You certainly should not approach them. SO you never see them again. So all the Portal has is your personal info and nothing to go on to catch people who do this. No pictures and I wouldn’t recommend to anyone to take a pic with your cell at angry people in a confrontation. Not a good idea at all. Now you have been TOLD and encouraged to use this Portal by your Mayor…say you take that picture as proof for your portal experience encouraged by our city government to do so and the assaulting person comes over and thumps you in head, takes your phone and if you are lucky they aren’t high on meth…This is where I mainly see where there could be legal ramifications against the city of Edmonds or the Mayor. But I am not an attorney, but Kim it may be an enticement??
Let us review the Mayor’s comments. He opposes citizens exercising their Constitutional rights of assembly and free speech to voice their discontent over the folly of his leadership, particularly if they are boisterous. How dare they! Furthermore, some in attendance were allegedly seen consuming adult beverages before the Council Meeting. Oh my, the nerve of those people. Good thing the Mayor had a snitch to report that outrage. (Although some might consider a stiff drink before having to listen to Mayor Mike a necessary antidote for his toxic virtue signaling.)
Finally Council Member Buckshnis had the audacity to express an opinion the Mayor did not like so, Mayor Mike openly chastised her for warning the people about the dangers of ‘hate speech” reporting that the Mayor had unilaterally implemented. Apparently, Council meetings have become a “no dissent” zone in the mind of Mayor Mike. Maybe Mayor Mike can implement a “boisterous dissent speech” reporting hot line to nip this kind of thing in the bud.
The mayor’s response to community complaints has been totally unprofessional, smearing supporters of political rivals, particularly supporters of Janelle Cass, as drunkards just because they oppose his reckless initiative.
This “hate portal” sounds like something straight out of George Orwell’s “Nineteen Eighty-four” or Philip Dick’s “Man in the High Castle.” Should children use the “hate portal” if they hear their parents express bias in their sleep, like Winston’s neighbor Parsons? Are we going to encourage children to report their parents for privately making biased comments like the Obergruppenführer’s wife Helen? That seems to be the direction the mayor wishes to take us and it is the duty of the people to resist any kind of thoughtpolice.
But, even if we ignore the dangerous precedent the mayor is looking to set, the “hate portal” has another big issue. This portal is set up the same way as the Covid “snitch list” set up last year, which led not to greater compliance with public health guidelines but rather to the “snitches” receiving death threats and other harassments after their personal information was released in a public records request. Any person, whether their intentions are good or malicious, will be able to request records of these reports filed through the “hate portal” putting those who file reports at risk. They could file reports anonymously, but anonymous reports are often not taken as seriously as reports tied to a name. If one is a victim of hate, their best option is to avoid this “hate portal” altogether and to speak to the police, where their report can be handled with confidentiality.
The mayor may have had good intentions, as we all want to combat hate, but we need to think through these policies before we enact them lest we do more harm than good. Furthermore, we need elected officials who are professional and represent the residents of Edmonds. The mayor has made it clear that the city needs Janelle Cass on the city council to keep ideas like the “hate portal” in check.
Not a good night for Mayor Nelson and the concerns of Edmonds citizens. The mayor continues his “shoot-first, aim later” misguided tactics. Blaming reasonable townspeople’s’ voices as partisan was unacceptable and irresponsible.
I rarely comment on anything, but this time I at least need to thank Diane Buckshnis and the two other council members (who voted for the ‘pause’) for listening to the people. Why is it today that people with a difference of opinion are being shamed? Conclusions should not be reached without hearing all opinions and knowing (or attempting to learn) all the facts.
I also wish to thank “My Edmonds News” for reporting on council meetings thus informing the citizenry of what is going on in our city
How do you know when you’re an extremist?
Democracy requires responsibility: to be informed and involved, and for citizens to voice their concerns to their elected officials. When that very act becomes irrevocably labelled as extremist, threatening, and abusive by the elected officials themselves, the government crosses over from democratic to something else, whether dictatorial, autocratic, or otherwise.
Nazi, Communist, racist, extremist…nobody likes to be called names. My concern is that we’ve found a way to damage the named without consequence to the namer. Once you call someone a racist, a rapist, or a Republican, there’s little room for reasonable retort. And, to Dubbury’s point, who decides? The police are excellent at determining criminal liability; lawyers are great at identifying civil exposure. But who, exactly, makes the city’s decision about whether a portal submission gets attention? Who? There is an honest potential for overreach or political malfeasance, regardless of who is in control. Collecting and tracking non-criminal free speech is risky and possibly illegal. The pause was warranted.
The Portal is not the design of nefarious masterminds. It’s just a web form, like others the city operates well, in hopes of encouraging certain people to speak out. Good. But it presumes there are too many extremist haters in our community. Nobody wants that either, but who decides if you are the extremist? Some people think some of the current candidates are extremists, but those candidates certainly don’t think they are. Who decides?
There are dozens of advocate organizations and ways for people to report issues of hate, so the question about the “why” here is valid. Laws exist to address hate, both in criminal and civil courts, but laws also restrict the government’s scope to investigate these matters. When the Patriot Act became law, many feared religious freedoms would be infringed upon, and the concern had validity. Restrictions on government power of data collection and investigations are important. The attempt to silence that concern, to label it as extremist, and to demand it be condemned by government officials is–dare I say–dangerous.
A Mayor and one of his staff members unilaterally and without any consent of the people or the people’s representatives implemented a city policy of allowing people to make accusations about each other on a city website which requires no proof or corroboration of “facts.” So far one city employee has been reported to the portal and the reported information about him has been sent to his boss at the city (per the employee’s recent comment to MEN).
Jenna Nand called into the Council meeting last night to report that someone made a complaint in her name which she did not agree with suggesting that she had been the victim of racism or discrimination because she was not appointed to city council. She noted that she is an attorney by trade and not too happy about this portal. Then the Mayor’s dupe of a city attorney says he’s pretty sure the city won’t be in trouble for this, but he’s not 100% sure and the council has no right to try to stop the Mayor’s new administrative policy due to separation of powers.
Then the Mayor lectures D.B. that she shouldn’t suggest the city could be in trouble over this. Then soon to be former C.P. Luke D. lectures his soon to be former constituents that the portal is a good tool for correcting their blatant racism and discrimination. Then the un-elected student city council person lectures everyone on civil behavior. This was the meeting last night folks. You can’t make stuff like this up. It’s probably just a matter of time until this whole country is a reactionary Right Wing dictatorship thanks to people like this on the extreme Left. Great job Mike, Luke, and AFM you are truly great Democrats and a credit to your Party.
I would like to thank Ms. Olson, Buckschnis, and K. Johnson for questioning the merit and legality of this portal. They simply listen to what citizens tell them and have the heart to speak up for the good of all Edmonds. Thank you very much. Ms. Olson voiced the question on point of order regarding a violation of talking about elections during council meetings. Well asked, what was the answer?
As for the Mayor’s rant toward citizens? Not worth talking about. His words speak volumes on how he feels and where he comes from.
“At this juncture I believe it’s dangerous for the city,” Buckshnis added.
In reply, Nelson snapped: “Council should refrain from language that it’s dangerous to the city.”
______________________________________________________________________________
This was a good opportunity to review those concerns of liability and unintended consequences, and make the case for why Mayor Nelson thought that the planning for the hate portal had sufficiently addressed those concerns, or even identify areas for improvement.
Shutting down discussion of alternative viewpoints does not make your viewpoint correct. The Mayor needs to learn to work with other people, genuinely listen, and communicate respectfully.
“The Mayor noted that the group began gathering outside around 5 p.m. and ‘they were seen drinking beforehand.’” Was this reported to the Mayor on the Mayor’s snitch portal by his spies? Is this how it’s being used? It could be. He thinks it’s perfectly acceptable as Mayor at a council meeting to smear council candidates and citizens who disagree with him, so of course he thinks it’s perfectly acceptable to create a government portal for neighbors to potentially smear each other. So sad that he uses his position and power to promote hate and division instead of bringing our community together; and the Block of Four continue to support him and block the other three. Thank you Vivian Olson, Diane Buckshnis and Kristiana Johnson for your efforts at putting a hold on the portal and standing up for the citizens of Edmonds!
I feel compelled to weigh in at this juncture. The mayor is quoted as referring to an unnamed third party as the source for the comment “they were seen drinking beforehand.” But the mayor apparently didn’t personally witness this. Were most of the commenters at last week’s meeting drinking? Who saw them? What were they drinking? Was it verified they were drinking something other than soft drinks or water? This comment seems reckless and unbecoming of a mayor.
I was drinking. Alas, I was in Gulf Breeze Florida and did not comment and fell asleep shortly after public comments due to the time zone and the delay, but will admit that during the live stream of the Counci meeting, I did have one Basil Hayden rocks.
I hope this doesn’t distort the Mayoral view of me or label me as a right wing nut job who drinks.
In all seriousness, the Mayor gave a good example of implied bias. Adults have a beverage, adults voice their opinions and feelings, adults have opposing views, those adults.must be politically motivated and are displaying bias. That, in a nutshell, is implicit bias. Perhaps someone needs to report it on the portal. Speaking of which, if there is a bias complaint against the Mayor (does the Mayor respond to a group of citizens more than another group?) Who investigates at makes recommendations on that one? Is it Council or his staff that makes suggestions for anti bias training? Just wondering.
A visit (thanks Rick Steve’s) to the Stasi Museum in Berlin, formerly home of Ministry of State Security, which held records of WWII neighbor reports on family or neighbors, was chilling as was visits to other historical sites in Germany. Those of us living in democracies must not forget the lessons of history.
It is very reckless. I was there with my husband and about 20 other citizens prior to the chambers opening which is who he was referring to. There was no one drinking anything except water so his comments are borderline slanderous. He’s obviously not following the Edmonds Code of Ethics as he is blatantly making up lies about Edmonds citizens.
I’d like to thank Councilmember Distelhorst for his comments. Regardless of whether the portal is the appropriate venue to address the issues, he articulated why something needs to be done to address discrimination, systemic and otherwise. Here’s an idea – an alternative to the portal, if you will. Snohomish County Code chapter 2.460 prohibits discrimination in several areas (employment, real estate transactions, blockbusting, public accommodation, to name a few) against people in several protected classes. See Code section 2.460.140, the section prohibiting discriminatory blockbusting, for an example list of protected classes. The Code provides for civil enforcement, i.e. it is not enforced by the police or other law enforcement agency. There is a hearing process, presided over by a hearing examiner, to afford those alleged to be in violation their due process. What does this County law have to do with Edmonds, you ask? Well, Section 2.460.200, “Application within cities and towns,” allows cities and towns in Snohomish County to adopt or incorporate the anti-discrimination law by lawful ordinance or resolution and after entry into an interlocal agreement with the county that provides for application and enforcement of the code within the city or town. See Section 2.460.200(1). If the City of Edmonds did this, antidiscrimination complaints filed pursuant to the code, regarding allegedly discriminatory actions that took place in the City, would be addressed by the county office of civil rights. If someone files a complaint with OCR that relates to actions that the ordinance does not apply, the complaint would be forwarded to the state HRC pursuant to RCW chapter 49.60, aka the WLAD. Again, the process and the remedies available would not be enforced by law enforcement and the law does not criminalize discriminatory actions. Rather, as federal law and state law have done since the 1960s, the complainant would have a civil remedy, the person or business complained about would get due process, complaints lacking merit would be dismissed, and the procedures would be conducted by trained individuals. I will be contacting council members with this idea. Have a good day.
Kim,
My sentiment exactly. We have a local regional agency that has a well thought out vehicle and process. Instrad, our current leader introduces a haphazard portal with more questions than answers.
It’s unfortunate that this remedy wasn’t explored first. There will still be naysayers and critics of the portal, or any reporting mechanism. The reality is that these reporting mechanisms and the civil and legal frameworks have been in place for a number of years. So why go down the road of ball bearings and duct tape when there are avenues that exist? Why is Edmonds uniquely different that this avenue didn’t work? I don’t know if it matters if Edmonds adopts ot or not, or if residents currently have the remedy if they live in Snohomish County, but I think they would without a local agency.
It isn’t the thought, it’s the execution that creates the issue.
Shouldn’t the mayors tirade be reported to the portal.
Don, that is a fantastic idea!
Looks like it is time for a FOIA request for all of Mayor Nelson’s emails to see what he really thinks about Edmonds voters…
…just sayin’
I’m putting the Mayor’s and Luke’s lectures in a special city portal – the one that leads to the waste treatment plant that needs major upgrading. No time to talk about things like that though, because the city just has to solve that major problem we have here of racism and discrimination.
Hang on Edmonds, here comes Seattle! It was nice while it lasted.
Not as long as we can vote! This is not the time to give up and passively accept any outcome as inevitable.
Especially when the mayor has revealed himself as a wannabe dictator.
Hate to be pessimistic but the Mayor isn’t up for reelection for two more years for whatever that means currently and there is no law or ordinance that specifically”requires” a Mayor or C.P. to talk to or even listen to any citizen. In Edmonds the Mayor and his staff pretty much run the roost. The power of the Council is very limited and essentially advisory and approving expenditures suggested by Mayor and Staff. The only way I have ever observed the citizens really being heard in Edmonds was thru ad hoc loud and peaceful protest. Mayor and staff generally get what they want here unless there is a rebellion of the masses of some sort. The commissions and boards are little more than feel good window dressing for what the strong executive wants to see happen.
Save Our City! Save Our City! Save Our City!
Clinton
Most of what you say is true. However, in the past, Mayors would listen to citizens, even disgruntled ones, and would communicate with all Council members. No much of that going on now with Mayor Mike unless you are a supporter of his social agenda.
Council still has to pass the annual budget for City spending, including the Mayor’s discretionary spending. They must approve changes to the City legal code and approve property acquisitions. Any changes to the zoning code like City wide up zoning must be made by the Council. They must also consider the confirmation of Directors including the Police Chief. So, still some power there to be exercised by Council members and therefore the current Council elections become very important to change the course set by Mayor Mike. Adriene Fraley Monillas is an ardent supporter of the Mayors agenda. She needs to go and be replaced by Neil Tibbott. Janelle Cass and Christiana Johnson appear to me to be the strongest candidates for the other contested Council positions if our citizens want to change the course being set by Mayor Mike.
Thank you Diane Buckshnis for all you do. I’m very glad I voted for you, and plan to vote for you again, should you decide to run.
The August 3, 2021 Approved City Council Meeting Minutes document that Mayor Mike Nelson started his Mayor’s comments off by saying the following:
“Mayor Nelson said he wanted to comment on what happened at last week’s City Council meeting, but he wanted to wait until after the polls closed because there is some relevancy. Last week packing of the Council Chamber was part of an organized effort by a partisan campaign to bully and harass specific elected officials and City staff by a local City Council candidate’s campaign. They began gathering outside at 5:00 and were seen drinking beforehand.”
Nelson did not provide any evidence of “organized efforts” or “drinking beforehand”. His reckless comments cast aspersions over all who entered Council Chambers that evening.
Nelson went on to ask where was the civil police, the moral outrage from the civic leaders thumping their chests for nonpartisanship and civility. Nelson stated if one choses to be kind only to people they agree with and not those they do not agree with, it defeats the purpose. Mayor Mike Nelson stated that selected civility is not civility.
My belief is that responding to emails is civil behavior. I believe it is kind to respond to emails from those you agree with and from those you do not agree with.
I do not know if Mayor Mike Nelson responds to any citizen emails. I know I have sent Mayor Mike Nelson over 150 emails since January 1, 2020 and he hasn’t responded to one of my emails.
Nelson said the best way to inform the community is to have something they can be informed about and that is data. We should have data on Mayor Mike Nelson’s email related conduct soon. We should know if he responds to any emails. While reviewing the City’s Public Record Request Portal earlier this week, I noticed the following Public Record Request was made on August 5, 2021:
“Request all emails to and from Mayor Michael Nelson on his official email account from January 1st, 2020 to today, August 5th, 2021.”