Spring 2021

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Highlands Council Highlands Fiber Network Issaquah Highlands Community Association Issaquah Highlands Community Fund

NUSA 2020 Winner for Best Nonprofit Print Newsletter!

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5-7 Feature: Rooted in Community 9 Volunteer of the Month 10-13 IHCA 14 Special Programming 15 What's Happening 16-17 Highlands Council

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Highlands Youth (HY) School Spotlight On the Blog City News Smart Home Emergency Preparedness Directory

ECRWSS POSTAL PATRON 2550 NE Park Drive Issaquah, WA 98029

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

Issaquah Highlands Connections

EDITOR’S NOTE Before I moved to Issaquah Highlands in 2012, I can’t say I knew what it meant to live “in community.” I grew up in a neighborhood without sidewalks or front porches, and homes sat far back from the street. Neighbors were just people I saw at the bus stop and the annual neighborhoood holiday party. I did not feel a real sense of connection and camaraderie with my neighbors until I moved to Issaquah Highlands.

Our community’s urban village design means our homes are See you on the front physically close together. Sidewalks, trails, and pathways connect us porch this summer! to our neighbors, and front porches encourage us to see our neighbors more regularly. That physical connection to our neighbors becomes a social connection in our community’s parks and common areas, at community-wide events, at our community center, Blakely Hall, and even online in social media groups.

Nine years ago, I moved to Issaqauh Highlands as a newlywed and now look forward to raising my daughter here. For varying reasons, all of us who live in Issaquah Highlands chose to put our roots down here. While we enjoy all that our community has to offer, we may forget the organizations that make it possible. “Rooted in Community” is a reminder of how Issaquah Highlands' foundation – a unique (and purposeful) organizational structure and urban village design – make it a special place to live, work, and play.

Also in this issue: stories on other topics that are part of the fabric of our community, including honoring volunteers, growing our community's youth, listening to feedback from residents (Highlands Council and HFN offer their 2021 survey recaps), promoting emergency preparedness, and more. Show off your love for Issaquah Highlands by participating in a new community photography contest (page 16) and sharing your feedback with the IHCA on park upgrades (page 10).

Remember, the next print issue of Connections will be in July. Until then, remember to stay connected with us online. See page 4 for details.

VickiGrunewald

Vicki Grunewald | Highlands Council Media Editor

Highlands Council is the publisher of Connections, producer of community-wide events such as Highlands Day, owner and manager of Blakely Hall, and liaison with the greater community. The mission of Highlands Council, and therefore, Connections, is “to foster the development of a vibrant and caring community committed to service, diversity, and well-being.”

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hat convinced you to make Issaquah Highlands your home? Were you attracted to the community’s natural beauty and views? Maybe it was its proximity to I-90 and public transportation or the quality of schools? Or maybe you dug deeper and discovered that Issaquah Highlands is different – deliberately different – from “Any Suburb, USA.” In this issue of Connections, our goal is to remind you that Issaquah Highlands is more than a beautiful place; our community also has a purposeful urban village design and a unique organizational structure rooted in the idea that Issaquah Highlands is a special place to live, work, and play.

Highlands Council Highlands Fiber Network Issaquah Highlands Community Association Issaquah Highlands Community Fund

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HIGHLANDS COUNCIL

Issaquah Highlands Connections

HIGHLANDS FIBER NETWORK

A community-building organization

Community-owned fiber to the home

Mission

Purpose

Highlands Council’s mission is to foster the development of a vibrant and caring community committed to service, diversity, stewardship, and well-being. Highlands Council is not the homeowner’s association. The Covenant for Community established Highlands Council to address the life enrichment needs of all community members – including homeowners and rental and commercial properties – through collaboration, community relations, and greater community involvement.

Highlands Fiber Network (HFN) manages the Issaquah Highlands fiber optic communication system, a 100% community-owned fiber network. HFN provides data, voice, and other advanced communications services to the community. The Highlands Fiber Network Board of Directors and GigabitNow (HFN's operator and internet service provider) work to shape the network and find the best ways to meet the communication needs of the Issaquah Highlands community.

Role

Benefits

• Communications

• Provides Issaquah Highlands residences and businesses with internet services.

• Events, Programs, and Community Groups

• Fast and reliable internet connectivity (including the opportunity to upgrade to gigabit service).

• Blakely Hall Community Center  • Greater Community Liaison

• Never throttles uploads or caps the amount of data you can use.

• Brand Management

• Low-cost telephone service for homes and businesses.

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Highlands Council is a 501(c)4 nonprofit organization governed by a selfperpetuating board of trustees whose members represent homeowners and rental and commercial properties in Issaquah Highlands. Trustees set policy and hire the Highlands Council executive director.

Community Enhancement fees tied to the Covenant for Community – signed by most landowners in Issaquah Highlands – are the primary source of Highlands Council funding. (See Covenant for Community sidebar on page 7 for more information.)

Other funding sources include sponsorships, grants, and advertising.

’S INSI DE

HFN is governed by a volunteer board of directors, made up of homeowners, GigabitNow representatives, and the HFN general manager.

HFN payments are not part of your homeowner’s association dues or other community payments. There is a $250 connection fee required at closing and a minimum required monthly Periodic Fee is billed monthly after closing. Plan upgrades and other services are available at an additional cost.

Issaquah Highlands homes and buildings that are part of the Covenant for Community are required to take a minimum level of HFN service. Non-covenant homes can subscribe to HFN services; however, they must join the Covenant for Community to receive gigabit service.

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5 Highlands Council 7 Highlands 20 Census Youth (HY) News 8 IHCA Operat 21 City News 28 School Spotlig ions & Board Electio ht 21 Merchant 29 Paying of 10 IHCA 2020-2 ns 22 The Smart the Month 30 Emerg for Public School 1 Budget Home ency 12 Wish You 23 Get Involve Were Here Preparedness d 13 Volunt 24 Ask Kari eer 31 Directory 14, 19 What's of the Month 25 Home Organi Happening zation 15 Featur 26 Holidays e: in Stronger Togeth 27 Issaquah the Highlands Highlands er Travels

Highlands Council trustees, David Ngai (board treasurer) and Kimberly Kapustein (board president) volunteer at the 2018 "Happy Birthday" Highlands Day festival. Photo by Julie Clegg.

Cannon Construction is an HFN partner. Cannon employees, John and Arvin, work running fiber jumpers in the HFN data center for a gig upgrade. Photo provided by Jeremy Fallt.

Find more information about your Issaquah Highlands community organizations online at issaquahhighlands.com.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION Our dedicated homeowner's association

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ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY FUND

A philanthropic community organization

Purpose

Purpose

The Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) professionally manages the community’s fiscal and environmental assets. Its mission is to maintain the value of Issaquah Highlands properties and high quality of life for the residential community.

Ongoing operations include the maintenance of landscape, parks, and common areas; snow removal; utilities; insurance; management; administration; architectural review; and violation enforcement. A capital reserve account funds the long-term maintenance and repair of IHCA properties.

The Issaquah Highlands Community Fund is a newly formed 501(c)3 community foundation created to support and enhance education, environmental, and cultural opportunities consistent with the community building goals of Highlands Council.

Role • Enforcement of the community standards • Landscape and maintenance of common areas, including parks 

Structure A volunteer board of directors comprised of residents and business leaders is responsible for the nonprofit's overall governance. Officers handle day-to-day administrative and operational functions. Paid staff, including an executive director, may be hired in the future.

Funding sources could include contributions from existing Issaquah Highlands community organizations; local, state, and federal grants; donations and endowments from the community; employer matching; and revenue generated from community events.

• Architect and builder relations • Home and commercial building modification review • Collaboration with the city of Issaquah and commercial landowners

Structure A volunteer board of directors governs IHCA affairs, each member with one equal vote. The board of directors is comprised of Issaquah Highlands homeowners with representation from each Board District. Homeowners elect the directors. The board hires the IHCA executive director.

Assessments are obligatory fees each homeowner pays to fund their share of the common expenses benefiting all, or a portion of, the association. Base assessments are levied equally against all homes, based on an annual budget prepared by the board, covering the estimated costs of operating the association. Supplemental neighborhood assessments are fees paid by a homeowner to fund additional services for their specific neighborhood, above the base assessment.

What is an “urban village”?

Issaquah Highlands was developed in the style of new urbanism, modeled after the compact, mixed-use design of European cities. New urbanism is defined as a mostly walkable mix of diverse, vibrant communities that include housing, workplaces, shops, entertainment, schools, parks, and civic facilities essential to daily life.

Issaquah Highlands combines the convenience found in dense cities with the quality of life found in the suburbs. Built Green-certified with safe neighborhoods, excellent schools, and many recreational opportunities, our community provides an ideal place for you and your family to live, work, and play.

Today Issaquah Highlands boasts over 4,000 homes. We have our own community center, Blakely Hall. We have a hospital, fire station, elementary school, retail, restaurants, and services, plus thousands of preserved acres of open space, parks, trails, and athletic amenities. The community is close to complete, with some residential and commercial areas not yet developed.

Because this urban village has various housing types and businesses, four separate organizations govern and serve the community to ensure a high-quality lifestyle for both residents and merchants. These organizations are funded and managed independently but work closely together to benefit the entire community.

What is the Covenant for Community?

Port Blakely, the master developer of Issaquah Highlands, created the Covenant for Community in 2003, which established Highlands Council as a community organization. The covenant dictates how Highlands Council is governed and funded and describes the council’s duties to its stakeholders. Most homeowners in Issaquah Highlands are stakeholders in Highlands Council when they purchase their home.

Stakeholders also include certain multifamily units and commercial/retail units.

The IHCA meticulously maintains common areas and enforces community-wide standards for landscaping and home exteriors to ensure the community always looks its best. Photo by Nina Milligan.

The Covenant for Community is a legally filed document with King County that is attached to the title of a property. The major source of funding for Highlands Council, which is the Community Enhancement Fee is 0.25 of 1% (0.0025%)* on the resale price of the home, paid by the seller at closing. Commercial properties pay annually by their square footage, and multifamily owners pay annually by the number of doors.

The covenant also establishes that Issaquah Highlands homes and commercial and multifamily properties that are part of the covenant are required to take a minimum level of Highlands Fiber Network (HFN) service.

Take the IHCA's 2021 annual community survey and share your thoughts on community park upgrades.

See page 10 for details.

*Some exceptions apply. Contact Michele McFarland, Highlands Council controller, at michele.m@ihcouncil.org to confirm your home’s status in the Covenant for Community and the Community Enhancement Fee for your home. Read the full document online at issaquahhighlands.com/learn/highlands-council/highlandscouncil-governing-documents.

Spring 2021

Issaquah Highlands Connections

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Spring 2021 VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH

Volunteers of the Month February, March, and April 2021 Congratulations and thank you to our volunteers of the month for February-April 2021 who represent unique volunteer opportunities with Highlands Council, Highlands Fiber Network (HFN), and the Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA). Read their personal volunteer stories in full at issaquahhighlands.com/tag/ volunteer-of-the-month. You just may be inspired to start volunteering yourself!

FEBRUARY 2021

Lisa Collins Issaquah Highlands Book Club Co-Leader

Over the years, the members of the Issaquah Highlands Book Club may have

changed, but the group continues. When the pandemic hit in 2020 and Blakely Hall closed, we started meeting online and have not missed a month."

MARCH 2021

Tim Underwood HFN Advisory Group Member

My hope for the future of HFN is simple: to continue to provide high-quality and reliable service at competitive prices while investing in network infrastructure to prepare for the future."

APRIL 2021

Rossi Cruz IHCA Board of Directors

I like seeing what it really takes to keep our community going. I don't think

people realize just how big Issaquah Highlands is. I'm lucky enough to be a part of it.

Are you inspired to get involved in the Issaquah Highlands community? Opportunities are available!

Visit issaquahhighlands.com/volunteer to discover all the different ways you can get involved in our Issaquah Highlands community, including opportunities to join boards and committees, as well as urgent needs at local nonprofits.

Questions? Contact Lindsey Pinkston, Highlands Council Program Manager, at lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org.

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ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

2021 IHCA Board of Directors Election Information Candidate Statement of Interest Forms Available Soon “The affairs of the association of the residential Association shall be governed by the Board of Directors, each of whom shall have one equal vote.”

by Sarah Hoey IHCA Executive Director

— Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) By-Laws

There are seven IHCA Board of Directors member positions.

Districts 1, 3, and 5, and At-Large seats are up for election this year. The At-Large member can be from any of the six districts.

Statement of interest forms for IHCA Board of Director’s candidacy will be available online at issaquahhighlands.com/ ihca and by mail, beginning the last week of April. Interested candidates for Districts 1, 3, 5, and At-Large positions must submit their statement of interest forms by May 14, 2021, to be considered for the official ballot. The IHCA will again use VoteHOANOW.com as an online voting service.

Keep an eye out for additional voting information in June when official ballots go live. Note there is no June issue of Connections this year; subscribe to the official Issaquah Highlands e-news, follow official social media channels, or visit issaquahhighlands.com for board election updates. Full details on each candidate will be published to issaquahhighlands.com/blog by June 1 to assist you in the voting process.

Voting will open the first week of June and close on June 18. Election results will be announced at the IHCA annual meeting on June 28. Your vote counts!

Interested in running for your district? Please contact the IHCA for more information, either by email at asktheihca@ihcommunity.org or call 425-427-9257.

See the map to determine your board district, based on where you reside in the community.

See this map online at issaquahhighlands.com/learn/issaquah-highlands-community-association-ihca/ihca-board-of-directors.

Want the latest IHCA Board of Directors election news and other important IHCA updates?

Sign up for the official Issaquah Highlands weekly e-news: Text IHNEWS to 22828 to sign up or visit issaquahhighlands.com/connect.

Coming Soon! Have the IHCA at your fingertips with the new IHCA app, coming soon to Apple and Android stores. See page 11 for more information.

Announcing the 2021 IHCA Survey!

As the Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) begins its five-year park upgrade projects, we would like to hear from the community on the types of things you would like to see in our parks. The IHCA maintains 24 parks, not including Central Park, Grand View Park, or Black Nugget Park, which are owned and maintained by the city of Issaquah.

The IHCA's mission is to protect and enhance the value of the common area properties owned in title by the IHCA, governed in accordance with the approved governing documents and policies that include Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs); By-Laws, Use Restrictions and Rules, CommunityWide Standards, and Architectural Guidelines.

In an online survey, you will have the opportunity to identify a park of interest and provide feedback on the type of amenities you would like to see at the park.

Please take this opportunity to provide feedback; we would love to hear your ideas.

Visit issaquahhighlands.com to find the link to the survey. The survey is open until April 30.

Look for a recap of survey results in the July issue of Connections, the annual IHCA issue, on newsstands on June 30.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

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ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION ARC TIP OF THE MONTH

Exterior House Painting

Announcing the IHCA Mobile App

No application or review is required for repainting any part of your house exterior with its original or existing color scheme. Prior Issaquah Highlands Community Association Architectural Review Committee (ARC) approval is required for new colors or any exterior color changes for houses, fences, decks, trim, and doors. Color chips (samples) must be submitted with your application with a detailed description of where the colors will be applied (trim, body, and doors, etc.), along with a photo of the home.

Soon You Can Have the IHCA at Your Fingertips In the coming months, the Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) will soon launch the first IHCA mobile app for Apple and Android devices. Here’s what you need to know.

by Sarah Hoey IHCA Executive Director • There is no cost for this app.

• This app is for Issaquah Highlands homeowners, tenants, and staff only.

• Your data is secure and will not be shared with any third-party entities.

• You will be required to register for the app when you initially sign in. The app will then prompt you to sign up for notifications from the IHCA if you so choose.

The app will allow you to have important IHCA information at your fingertips: • IHCA contact phone number • Direct email with attachments capability • IHCA Board of Directors members and board district information

• Special announcements • IHCA meeting notices, agendas, and minutes • Make a payment and request an escrow payoff • Access to all budgets, governing documents, policies, maps, and more

The ARC Committee will consider the color schemes of surrounding homes in the immediate neighborhood to determine the consistency of the selected colors.

ARC applications and guidelines can be found at issaquahhighlands.com/learn/issaquah-highlandscommunity-association-ihca/ihca-architecturalguidelines-and-forms.

If your current email address does not match the one the IHCA has on file for you or your household, the IHCA will need to approve your initial app login request. Tenants can have access to the app if they are registered with the IHCA. (Registering tenants is simple through the app.)

Please send any updated email address information to the IHCA at asktheihca@ihcommunity.org by April 9.

Please include your name, your property address, and any updated email addresses. We will ensure your information is updated before we the app goes live.

Look for formal announcements about the app’s launch on official Issaquah Highlands social media channels and in the weekly e-news. We will publish a QR code for superfast access to the app once it goes live. You can continue to find IHCA information at issaquahhighlands.com.

Once we roll out the app, we would love your feedback.

There is always room for improvement, and your feedback is the driving force behind everything we do. Please send your feedback to asktheihca@ihcommunity.org or contact us directly through the IHCA app.

2021 Graduation/Booster Signs Variance Normally, there is an Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) rule on acceptable yard signage that does not allow booster club or graduation signs. Given our worldwide situation, the IHCA Board of Directors has granted an emergency variance to this rule to support all students graduating this year who reside in our community.

Additionally, this rule is under review by the IHCA Board of Directors for future permanent amendments.

RULES REMINDERS

Trash Cans All trash (grey), recycling (blue), or yard waste (green) containers and/or bags and other trash containers must be stored indoors – inside a garage or Issaquah Highlands Community Association Architectural Review Committee-approved enclosure – during non-pickup hours. Trash cans may only be placed at the curb/street for pickup 12 hours prior to and 12 hours after pickup time. You don’t want to encourage bears and other wildlife to look for their next meal in your trash can.

Approved Signage Guidelines: Yard signs only (18 inches by 24 inches) with stakes, single or double-sided; signs can display student’s name, school logo, and colors. Limit three per household. Please do not install signs on other’s property or IHCA common areas or hinder the line of sight of road or alleyways. Owners are responsible for removing signs within ten days after graduation, please.

Congrats to all the grads this coming year. We understand this has been a challenging time for students. You are all rock stars in our book!

Learn how you can submit your free grad announcment in the July issue of Connections on page 20.

A bear enjoys a trash can meal at a home in Wisteria Park. Photo provided by the IHCA. Photo provided by Highlands Council.

LEARN MORE! These tips and rules reminders are only a subset of IHCA guidelines and regulations. For complete standards, visit our website, issaquahhighlands.com/ learn/issaquah-highlands-community-associationihca. Questions? Call the IHCA at (425) 427-9257.

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ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

Issaquah Highlands Community Association 2021-22 Master Budget Dear Issaquah Highlands Homeowners: The 2021-22 Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) master annual assessment will increase by $12/year to $948 as of July 1, 2021, when ratified. There has not been an increase since the 2017-18 fiscal year.

The IHCA Finance Committee and IHCA Board of Directors reviewed the 2021-22 budget prepared by the IHCA staff. The IHCA is a nonprofit organization and develops the budget according to Washington state law and the IHCA’s Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&R’s).

The Finance Committee works throughout the year analyzing monthly financials, including a yearly forecast. The committee started preparing and reviewing the 2021-22 operating budget at their meeting in January. The draft 2021-22 operating and reserve budgets were presented to and approved by the IHCA Board of Directors at the February 22, 2021 board meeting.

2020-21 Assessment 2021-22 Assessment

Annual $936 $948

Semi-Annual $468 $474

Monthly $78 $79

Income includes annual base assessments, late fees, shared-costs income, non-member income, interest, and other income. The unit count estimated for the 2021-22 budget is 3,571, including the Westridge North community, the latest Taylor Morrison residential development.

The operating expenses increased $132,000 (4%) over the last year’s budget. The increase is offset partially by an increase in base assessment revenue from additional unit absorption of the new Westridge neighborhood, west of 9th Avenue. The reserve contribution increased slightly and will provide the community with a strong financial position to fund future major projects.

2021-22 Budget Overview Income:

Capital Reserves Contribution

Professional Services 2% Insurance 2% Professional Services 2% Legal 1% Insurance 2% Legal 1%

Reserve Contribution 8% Reserve Contribution Accounting 6% 8% Accounting 6%

Office Rent 2%

Bad Dept 1%

Office Rent 2%

Bad Dept 1%

2021-22 IHCA BUDGET Contingency 2% Taxes 2%

Landscape Contingency 2% & Utilities 44%

Taxes 2% Administration 18%

Landscape & Utilities 44%

Administration 18%

Repairs & Maintenance 12%

Repairs & Maintenance Landscape & Utilities Repairs & Maintenance 12% Accounting Reserve Contribution Landscape & Utilities Repairs & Maintenance Community Management Contingency Accounting Reserve Contribution Community Management Contingency

$ 3,688,165

Expenses:

Landscape, Utilities, and Operations $ 2,100,465

Community Management and Administration $ 997,790 Accounting $ 224,910 Total Expenses $ 3,323,165

2021-22 IHCA BUDGET

$

365,000

IHCA 2021-22 Budget Ratification Meeting Monday, April 26 at 5:30 p.m.

See issaquahhighlands.com/events for details The IHCA 2020-21 Budget Ratification Meeting will be held via Zoom on April 26, 2021, at 5:30 p.m. Please check the community website at issaquahhighlands.com/events for the Zoom meeting link.

Per the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) and the IHCA governing documents, a quorum is not required at the meeting for the budget to be ratified. The budget will be ratified unless 75% of the entire membership (not just homeowners present at the meeting or by proxy) votes to reject the IHCA budget approved by the board of directors.

If you do not plan to attend the meeting, you may cast your vote in two alternative ways: Email: Send an email with your vote to budget@ihcommunity.org. Email must contain your full name and street address.

By Mail: Send your vote with your full name, street address, and signature to: IHCA – Budget 2520 NE Park Drive, Suite. B Issaquah, WA 98029 All votes by email and by mail must be received no later than April 25, 2021, by 5 p.m.

Notable Expenses Increases: • Landscape Contract: Vendor rate increases and Westridge neighborhood added.

• IHCA Payroll/Benefits: Additional staffing of one additional employee to manage the Custom Architectural Review Committee (ARC) transferring from the master developer to the IHCA; 401(k) match and annual wage increases.

• Professional Services: Custom ARC training, new community maps.

• Legal Fees: Additional legal services required.

Notable Expenses Decreases: • Contingency: Lower projected needs for the community.

• Garbage/Electric: Savings in hauling debris; lower current electricity averages.

• Staff Uniforms: Contract with uniform supply contractor was terminated.

• Bad Debt Expense/Legal Collection Services: Reduction in delinquencies/collections.

Ops Travel, Meals, & Training Maint - Communications,Computer,Misc Contra-Dedicated Operations

3,100 1,100 (28,000) 440,800

TOTAL REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE

Issaquah Highlands Connections

ACCOUNTING Dedicated Staff Wages-Accounting Payroll Taxes - Accounting Worker's Comp - Accounting Medical Insurance - Accounting 401K Expense - Accounting Contra-Dedicated Accounting

3,100 1,100 (28,000) 424,691

Spring 2021 213,000

207,283

3,100 1,100 (28,000) 454,700

13 218,100

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION 17,000 16,769 18,500

Issaquah Highlands 2021-22 Approved Budget

For the Fiscal Year July 1, 2021 - June 30, 2022 IHCA Board of Directors Approved February 22, 2021 Issaquah Highlands 2021-22 Approved Budget For the Fiscal Year July 1, 2021 - June 30, 2022 IHCA Board of Directors Approved February 22, 2021

Annual Assessments OPERATING FUND INCOME Late Fees / NSF Fee & Fine Income Escrow & Resale Cert Fees Collection Legal Fee Income Interest Income Owner Base Assessments Management Fees - High Street Center Operations Income - Non-members Other Income Shared Cost - High Street Center Shared Costs Agreements Income TOTAL ASSOCIATION INCOME

EXPENSES LANDSCAPE & UTILITIES Utilities - Storm Water Fees Garbage Electric - Streetlights, Feature Electric Landscape - Contract Monthly Landscape - Non-contract (goats) Irrigation-Water Irrig Elec Park & Supply Pumps Irrig Maint & Repairs Landscape Supplies Landscape Equipment Safety Equip & Supplies Equipment Rental Irrig Non-Potable Maint/Mgmnt Dedicated Staff Wages - Landscape Payroll Taxes - Landscape Worker's Comp - Landscape Medical Insurance - Landscape 401K Expense - Landscape Landscape Travel, Meals, & Training Staff Uniforms & Equip Landscape Communications,Computer,Misc Contra-Dedicated Landscape TOTAL LANDSCAPE & UTILITIES

REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE Pet Waste Service Supplies Pedestrian Safety Holiday Lighting - Contract Signs Expense, Maint. & Repair Maintenance & Repair Professional Services-Park Inspections Parks/Trails Lighting Maint. & Repair Maintenance Supplies Landscape - Fleet Equip, Repair & Maint Landscape Shop Utilities & Other Drain Line Cleaning Dedicated Staff Wages - Operations Annual Assessments Annual Assessments Payroll Taxes - Operation Worker's CompMaster - Operations 21-22 BUDGET for Connections Medical Insurance - Operations 401K Expense - Operations Ops Travel, Meals, & Training Maint - Communications,Computer,Misc Contra-Dedicated Operations TOTAL REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE

ACCOUNTING Dedicated Staff Wages-Accounting Payroll Taxes - Accounting Worker's Comp - Accounting Medical Insurance - Accounting 401K Expense - Accounting Contra-Dedicated Accounting TOTAL ACCOUNTING

2020-21 Ratified Budget $936

2020-21 Year-End Forecast

2021-22 Approved Budget $948

3,000 15,000 30,000 18,000 36,000 3,237,624 29,355 500 1,255 5,000 168,077 3,543,811

870 9,475 32,575 17,100 28,176 3,281,928 29,355 273 300 166,023 4,545 3,570,619

3,000 13,000 31,278 15,000 36,000 3,385,308 29,355 0 1,255 6,700 167,269 3,688,165

25,000 26,000 41,000 431,000 98,000 164,800 27,000 25,000 115,000 11,000 10,000 12,000 6,000 423,500 34,000 22,500 90,300 10,500 6,100 16,000 2,500 (43,000) 1,554,200

25,000 22,910 36,256 477,633 98,000 164,800 27,000 25,000 115,000 11,000 10,000 12,000 6,000 419,837 35,464 22,500 74,679 6,010 4,521 13,909 2,607 (43,000) 1,567,125

27,600 22,000 35,000 528,150 98,000 164,800 27,000 25,000 115,000 11,000 10,000 12,000 6,000 435,000 38,000 21,500 87,000 6,900 6,100 10,000 2,715 (43,000) 1,645,765

50,000 30,000 4,000 37,100 4,600 6,000 43,400 2020-21 40,000 Ratified 2020-21 17,500 Budget15,000 Ratified $936166,000 Budget $936 13,000 7,000 1 26,100 4,900 3,100 1,100 (28,000) 440,800

30,000 4,000 37,100 4,600 6,000 43,400 2020-21 40,000 Year-End 2020-21 17,500 Forecast Year-End 15,000 Forecast 155,602 12,127 4,891 23,371 4,900 3,100 1,100 (28,000) 424,691

50,000 10,000 30,000 4,000 40,000 4,600 6,000 33,000 2021-22 40,000 Approved 2021-22 19,100 Budget Approved 15,000 $948 Budget 169,500 $94815,000 6,800 25,500 10,000 3,100 1,100 (28,000) 454,700

213,000 17,000 900 39,300 6,300 (66,540) 209,960

207,283 16,769 762 34,790 6,397 (66,540) 199,461

218,100 18,500 950 41,000 12,900 (66,540) 224,910

-

50,000 -

COMMUNITY MANAGEMENT Occupational & Technical Training 28,500 22,827 Company & Management Training 7,000 6,966 Other Admin - Dues/Subs., Computer, Misc 2,900 2,900 Dedicated Staff Wages - Community Admin 306,500 309,733 *Reserve mayAdmin not occur in the fiscal year as they22,000 are prioritized by safety, Payroll Taxesprojects - Community 22,000 the community, and access to materials and contractors. 900 Worker's Comp - Community Admin 900 Medical Insurance - Community Admin 71,100 56,165 401K Expense - Community Admin 8,600 6,838 Mileage/Parking Reimbursement 500 500 Legal Services 20,000 20,000

28,500 7,000 3,200 360,000 needs of 26,000 1,200 82,000 20,300 500 30,000

Annual Assessments Worker's Comp - Operations Medical Insurance - Operations COMMUNITY MANAGEMENT 401K Expense&- Operations Occupational Technical Training Ops Travel,&Meals, & Training Company Management Training Maint Admin - Communications,Computer,Misc Other - Dues/Subs., Computer, Misc Contra-Dedicated Operations Dedicated Staff Wages - Community Admin TOTAL & MAINTENANCE PayrollREPAIRS Taxes - Community Admin Worker's Comp - Community Admin ACCOUNTING Medical Insurance - Community Admin Dedicated Staff- Community Wages-Accounting 401K Expense Admin Payroll Taxes - Accounting Mileage/Parking Reimbursement Worker's Comp - Accounting Legal Services Medical Insurance - Accounting Legal Collection Services 401K Expense - Accounting Audit & Tax Services Contra-Dedicated HR/Payroll ServicesAccounting TOTAL ACCOUNTING Computer/Professional Services Reserve Study COMMUNITY MANAGEMENT Contra-Dedicated Staff Comm Assn Occupational & Technical Committee / BOD ExpenseTraining Company & Management Training Public (Community) Relations Other Admin - Dues/Subs., Computer, Misc Computer Expense (Hardware) DedicatedLicensing Staff Wages - Community Admin Software Payroll Taxes - Community Admin Supplies Worker's Comp - Community Admin Photocopies Medical Postage Insurance - Community Admin 401K Expense Community Admin Office Electric,-Etc. Mileage/Parking Reimbursement Rent, CAMs, Office & Storage Legal Services Communications Legal Services B & OCollection Taxes Audit & Tax Property TaxServices HR/Payroll Services Bad Debt Expense Computer/Professional Services Directors & Officers Insurance Reserve Liability, Study Property, Auto Insurance General Contra-Dedicated Bank Fees - NSF Staff Comm Assn Committee / BOD Federal Income TaxExpense Public (Community) Contingency ExpenseRelations Computer Expense (Hardware) TOTAL COMMUNITY MANAGEMENT Software Licensing SuppliesEXPENSES TOTAL Photocopies Postage NET INCOME BEFORE RESERVE CONTRIBUTION Annual Assessments Office Electric, Etc. Rent, CAMs, Office & Storage RESERVE FUNDMaster Communications * 21-22 BUDGET for Connections RESERVE INCOME B & O Taxes Reserve PropertyContribution Tax Interest - Reserves Bad DebtIncome Expense Capital Assessment Directors & Officers Insurance TOTAL GeneralRESERVE Liability,INCOME Property, Auto Insurance Bank Fees - NSF RESERVE EXPENSES Federal Income Tax Drain Line - Maintenance Contingency Expense Street Trees Rotational Replacement TOTAL COMMUNITY MANAGEMENT Asphalt Dahlia Park - Repair/Sealcoat Asphalt South Pond - Repair/Sealcoat TOTAL EXPENSES Asphalt WHP Trail - Repair/Sealcoat Fence Vault Farm - Replace NET INCOME BEFORE RESERVE CONTRIBUTION Village Green Park - Refurbish Village Green Irrigation - Repair/Replace VillageBUDGET Trail Park - Refurbish 21-22 Master for Connections Bark Park - Refurbish Bark Park Fence - Replace Sport Court Deck - Replace Summit Park Irrigation - Repair/Replace Magnolia Park Irrigation - Repair/Replace The Greens Irrigation - Repair/Replace Varenna Div. 97 Repr Landscape Irrigation Controls NP2@ Pond Non-portable Control - Replace 2/25/2021 Park Drive Syst Field Devices - Replace No Pond Non-Potable Control - Replace No Pond Syst Field Devices Asphalt WADOT Pond Repair/Sealcoat Asphalt NPW Pond Entry Replace/Sealcoat Dog Station - Replace (as needed) Common Area Signage - Replace Light Pole Repair/Replace IHCA Common Area Lights Stairway to Iris Lights Mailboxes - Upgrades 2020-21 Handrails Replace 30th Ave. (North) 20-21 Wood Rail / Log Fence - Replace Summit Park - Play Equip. Refurb - Slide Logan Park - Refurbish Magnolia Park - Refurbish #408 Magnolia Park Pavillion - New Roof #409 Kirk Park Fence paint The greens - Refurbish Valais Hudson Park - Refurbish TOTAL RESERVE EXPENSES TOTAL ACCOUNTING

CASH FLOW - RESERVE FUND

900 2020-21 39,300 Ratified6,300 (66,540) Budget $936209,960 7,000 26,100 4,900 28,500 3,100 7,000 1,100 2,900 (28,000) 306,500 440,800 22,000 900 71,100 213,000 8,600 17,000 500 900 20,000 39,300 18,000 6,300 11,000 (66,540) 26,360 209,960 27,000 2,340 (54,120) 28,500 5,500 7,000 7,300 2,900 5,000 306,500 34,000 22,000 19,500 900 16,500 71,100 14,000 8,600 5,000 500 84,400 20,000 13,000 18,000 150 11,000 13,000 26,360 14,000 27,000 16,000 2,340 60,000 (54,120) 700 5,500 20,000 7,300 212,221 5,000 1,038,851 34,000 2020-21 19,500 3,243,811 Ratified 16,500 Budget 14,000 300,000 $936 5,000 84,400 3 13,000 150 300,000 13,000 25,000 14,000 0 16,000 325,000 60,000 700 20,000 212,221 66,950 1,038,851

762 2020-21 34,790 Year-End 6,397 (66,540) Forecast 199,461 4,891 23,371 4,900 22,827 3,100 6,966 1,100 2,900 (28,000) 309,733 424,691 22,000 900 56,165 207,283 6,838 16,769 500 762 20,000 34,790 18,000 6,397 11,000 (66,540) 26,360 199,461 27,000 2,340 (54,120) 22,827 3,392 6,966 7,300 2,900 5,000 309,733 34,000 22,000 19,500 900 16,500 56,165 14,000 6,838 2,912 500 80,542 20,000 13,000 18,000 0 11,000 13,000 26,360 10,949 27,000 6,102 2,340 68,957 (54,120) 531 3,392 27,000 7,300 212,221 5,000 1,014,315 34,000 2020-21 19,500 3,205,592 Year-End 16,500 Forecast 14,000 365,027 2,912 80,542 13,000 0 300,000 13,000 30,315 10,949 5,616 6,102 335,931 68,957 531 27,000 212,221 66,950 1,014,315

3,243,811

3,205,592

300,000

365,027

3

950 2021-22 41,000 Approved 12,900 (66,540) Budget $948 224,910 6,800 25,500 10,000 28,500 3,100 7,000 1,100 3,200 (28,000) 360,000 454,700 26,000 1,200 82,000 218,100 20,300 18,500 500 950 30,000 41,000 15,000 12,900 10,300 (66,540) 26,360 224,910 43,500 2,340 (54,120) 28,500 5,500 7,000 10,200 3,200 5,000 360,000 34,800 26,000 19,500 1,200 16,000 82,000 12,000 20,300 10,000 500 83,400 30,000 20,000 15,000 150 10,300 11,000 26,360 7,200 43,500 7,000 2,340 78,658 (54,120) 700 5,500 20,000 10,200 54,602 5,000 997,790 34,800 2021-22 19,500 3,323,165 Approved 16,000 Budget 12,000 365,000 $94810,000 83,400 20,000 150 365,000 11,000 25,000 7,200 0 7,000 390,000 78,658 700 20,000 21,850 54,602 69,000 997,790 1,855 8,550 3,323,165 4,585 9,875 365,000 8,450 20,850 64,650 15,550 24,150 81,950

20,250 5,300 3,550 11,150 44,650 15,050 2,850 16,600 7,050 21,250 5,420 3,700 10,900 50,250 19,350 9,750 25,150 2,450 4,300 10,650 14,350 44,100 10,400 8,185 20,000 10,650 464,255

20,250 5,300 3,550 11,150 44,650 15,050 2,850 16,600 7,050 21,250 5,420 3,700 10,900 50,250 19,350 9,750 25,150 2,450 4,300 10,650 14,350 44,100 10,400 8,185 20,000 10,650 66,950

345,085

(139,255)

268,981

44,915

11,250

2,520

Reserve projects may not occur in fiscal year as they are prioritized by safety, needs of the community and access to materials and contractors.

2/25/2

2/25/2

14

Spring 2021

Issaquah Highlands Connections

SPECIAL PROGRAMMING

Crossing Paths with Carnivores An Issaquah Highlands Adventure

This spring and summer, embark on an exciting path of discovery by playing a new scavenger hunt game in Issaquah Highlands using your smartphone.

Highlands Council partnered with the Woodland Park

by Lindsey Pinkston Zoo’s Carnivore Coexistence Community Program Action Team to develop Manager, Highlands Council a fun, 12-stop adventure and Wisteria Park Resident called “Crossing Paths with Carnivores” that will lead you to find clues, solve puzzles, and complete adventures one location at a time.

The journey highlights interesting locations in Issaquah Highlands while providing players with information about local carnivores and tips on what you can do to keep your family safe when unexpected encounters occur.

How to Play:

Play the “Crossing Paths with Carnivores” game using the Geocaching Adventure Lab app by Groundspeak, Inc. It requires a free geocaching.com account to log in and play.

Create an account and download the app to get started.

You can visit the twelve scavenger hunt locations in any order days or even months; however, the game was designed to be done in one outing if desired. It takes about an hour and a half to two hours to walk the entire route, but it would also be fun by bike or scooter.

We recommend starting your scavenger hunt adventure at the Grand Ridge Trailhead, just a few steps onto the trail at the south end of South Pond in Central Park. Follow the map in the app from stop-to-stop, solving puzzles and learning facts along the way.Parking is available near the Vista Trailhead (along Park Drive) or at the southeast side of Central Park by the tennis courts.

Once you complete all 12 stops, be sure to take a screen capture of your app showing you finished and email it to lindsey.p@ihcoucil.org to enter to win a variety of fun prizes throughout the summer.

I can’t wait to do this activity with my kids!

I’m always looking for something to motivate them to get outside, and this will be a fun new way to explore the neighborhood.”

– Chelsea Musick, Central Park resident and "Crossing Paths with Carnivores" volunteer

Want to Be a More Informed Issaquah Highlands Resident?

All IH Residents are Invited to Resident Information Night on April 13 Do you wish you better understood how our community is governed? Join us on Tuesday, April 13, for a fun virtual resident information night.

by Lindsey Pinkston Community Program Manager, Highlands Council and Wisteria Park Resident

Meet representatives from Highlands Council, the Issaquah Highlands Community Association, Highlands Fiber Network, and the Issaquah Highlands Community Fund and learn about their organizations.

After introductions, move around our virtual easyto-navigate reception “rooms” and get to know the organizations even better in a casual Q&A setting. Fill in your special event bingo card as you move from room-to-room to win a prize.

Issaquah Highlands has a unique community governance structure (see pages 5-7 for more information). This event is a great opportunity to learn how each community organization serves you and get to know the people who work and volunteer for them.

Whether you’re new to Issaquah Highlands or a long-time resident, all residents are invited to attend. Raffle prizes will be awarded throughout the event. Please register to attend in advance online at issaquahhighlands.com/events. The first 25 people who both register and attend the event will get an Issaquah Highlands "Stronger Together" face mask.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Spring 2021

15

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE HIGHLANDS

Community Groups  Book Club

Third Tuesdays, 7 p.m.

The book club is a great place to meet neighbors, socialize, and explore a variety of books. Join the Facebook group at facebook.com/ihbookclub.

 IH Business Networking Group First Mondays, 9:30 a.m.

Join other small business owners for a new spin on the standard practice of networking, based on knowing the more we connect and share, the more we all grow! This group is inclusive, connection-based, and valuable to all members. No obligations, just genuine connections!

Issaquah Highlands Hiking Group

The Issaquah Highlands Hiking Group is open to all ages to connect with other hiking enthusiasts and go on planned hikes in the beautiful Northwest. For more information and details on our next scheduled hike, join our Facebook group at facebook.com/groups/nwhiking.

 Meditation Group Fridays, 2 p.m.

Discover how to find moments to relax the mind. The group practice exercises that promote balance, strength, and calmness. Learn techniques to help deal with the stress and strain of a busy life. Free to attend and open to all! Questions? Contact ih.meditation@gmail.com.

Mountain Biking Group

The Issaquah Highlands Mountain Biking Group is open to all ages to meet other mountain bike enthusiasts while exploring some of the amazing local mountain bike trails! For more information and details on all planned rides, join us on Facebook at “Issaquah Highlands Mountain Biking Club.”

 Photography Group Third Saturdays, 10:30 a.m.

Enjoy monthly meetings with guest speakers, share and discuss your work with others, and participate in an online community throughout the month.

Contact ihpc@outlook.com.

 Work Rock from Home Group

Don't Miss This Crossing Paths with Carnivores Adventure Launching March 31

Embark on an exciting path of discovery by playing a new scavenger hunt game in Issaquah Highlands using your smartphone. This fun, 12-stop adventure will lead you to find clues, solve puzzles, and complete adventures one location at a time. Complete the adventure to win prizes throughout the summer. Learn more on page 14 or visit issaquahhighlands.com/ carnivores-adventure.

 Resident Information Night Tuesday, April 13, 7 p.m.

Join Highlands Council, the Issaquah Highlands Community Association, and Highlands Fiber Network for a fun, virtual information night! We’ll share information about our organizations and give away prizes, after which you’ll have a chance to move around virtual easy-to-navigate reception “rooms” where you can ask questions and get to know the organizations better. All residents are invited to attend; register early for extra swag at issaquahhighlands.com/events.

“A Focus on Home” Photography Contest May 1-July 31

Celebrate life in Issaquah Highlands through your lens.

Photographers of all ages are invited to submit your best photos of our community’s beautiful landscapes, features, and community life across ten categories.

Prizes will be awarded in each category and age group, and your photo may be chosen for display in the Blakely Hall gallery. Learn more on page 16 or visit issaquahhighlands.com/photography-contest.

Community-Wide Garage Sale Saturday, June 19, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Whether it's a yard sale or a garage sale, it's a summer tradition! Sell or shop throughout the community at the semi-annual Issaquah Highlands Community-Wide Garage Sale.

Governance Mtgs 

Join a support group of neighbors full of ideas, resources, and tips to help you “rock” at working from home! We will share positive vibes and ideas about how to balance life/work at home, avoid loneliness, and stay motivated. Join us on Facebook and for monthly webinars on relevant topics at facebook.com/groups/ rockfromhome.

Highlands Council Board of Trustees

 Toastmasters

First Tuesdays, 6 p.m.

Thursdays, 7 a.m.

Say it better with Toastmasters. Share your interests and goals in a positive, supportive environment. Let us help you expand your knowledge and horizons. Guests are welcome to join a meeting to see what it’s about – it’s one hour of fun, and you won’t be put on the spot!

Learn more at ihtm.toastmastersclubs.org.

 Yarns & Threads Group Fridays, 10 a.m.

All knitters, crocheters, and stitchers are welcome. For more details or questions, please contact Cathie Coulter at Catherine.coulter@ihmail.com.

Get Involved  IHCA Annual Survey April 1-30

Find the link to the survey at issaquahhighlands.com.

More information on page 10.

Apply Now for the HY Board April 1 - May 1

Calling all teens! Would you like the opportunity to unify Issaquah Highlands youth through meaningful and fun social experiences, create lasting memories, and build pride in our community? The Highlands Youth Advisory Board is now accepting applications for 2021-2022 from students entering grades 6-12. Learn more on page 19 or visit issaquahhighlands.com/learn/ highlands-youth.

Blood Donation Pop-Ups April 23, 24, 26, 29, 30, and May 6 Blakely Hall

Highlands Council has partnered with Bloodworks Northwest to provide a safe, local opportunity to donate blood. First-time and returning donors welcome. To make your appointment online, visit schedule.bloodworksnw.org.

IHCA Board of Directors Candidate Statement of Interest Late April - May 14

For board districts 2, 4, and At-Large. Find the statement of interest form at issaquahhighlands.com/ ihca in April. More information on page 10.

Candidate Filing for King County May 17-21

Positions with King County, the city of Issaquah, Issaquah School Board, and more. More information at kingcounty.gov/depts/elections/for-candidates.aspx Learn more on page 23.

 Cross-Cultural Committee Wednesday, May 19, 7 p.m.

We invite anyone who has a passion for celebrating the diverse cultures that make up Issaquah Highlands to join our cross-cultural committee. We’ll come together to learn from each other and help shape the direction of Highlands Council. Contact Lindsey at lindsey.p@ ihcouncil.org or visit issaquahhighlands.com/volunteer to learn more.

First Tuesdays, 12 p.m.

 Vote for the IHCA Board

IHCA Architectural Review Committee

June 1-18

IHCA Finance Committee Second Tuesdays, 4:30 p.m.

Highlands Fiber Network Advisory Group Third Mondays, 5 p.m.

IHCA Board of Directors

Fourth Mondays, 5:30 p.m.

IHCA 2021-22 Budget Ratification Meeting Monday, April 26 More information on page 12 and issaquahhighlands.com/events.

IHCA Annual Homeowners Meeting Monday, June 28

New members of the IHCA Board of Directors will be announced at this meeting. More details to come at issaquahhighlands.com/events.

of Directors

Full details on each candidate will be published to issaquahhighlands.com/blog by June 1 to assist you in the voting process. More information will be published at issaquahhighlands.com/ihca. Learn more on page 10.

IH Doers & Dreamers Day of Service Last Mondays

Small steps can have a big impact! Inspired by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., we hope you will join the IH Cross-Cultural Committee in taking 15 minutes each month to help keep our community beautiful. Learn more at issaquahhighlands.com/events.

Neighbor to Neighbor Services Directory

Join our directory to connect neighbors in need with neighbors looking to help. Learn more at issaquahhighlands.com/volunteer.

For more ways to get involved, please visit issaquahhighlands.com/volunteer.

 Indicates this group/event occurs online. All events are FREE unless otherwise noted.

16

Spring 2021

Issaquah Highlands Connections

HIGHLANDS COUNCIL

NEW! Community Photography Contest

by Lindsey Pinkston Community Program Manager, Highlands Council and Wisteria Park Resident

Photographers of all ages are invited to submit their best images celebrating life in Issaquah Highlands in our "A Focus on Home" Photography Contest, funded in part by the Issaquah Arts Commission.

Capture Issaquah Highlands’ beautiful landscapes, features, and community life and submit your favorite photos in these ten categories. (Note: Each person may submit one photograph per category):

Categories • Parks and Outdoor Art: With 28 parks in Issaquah Highlands and plenty of outdoor art pieces, you’re bound to have a favorite spot or feature. Show us what makes a park special to you, or take a photo of your favorite piece of outdoor art from your perspective.

• Home Maintenance: Painting your fence? Patching the roof? These quintessential activities demonstrate real life for homeowners in Issaquah Highlands.

• Landscape and Views: Which of Issaquah Highlands spectacular views or gorgeous landscapes is your favorite? This category also includes our incredible sunsets and rainbows.

• Front Porches: Show us what Issaquah Highlands “front porch living” means to you. Be sure you have permission from the resident if the porch you are photographing is not your own. This category can include other unique features of Issaquah Highlands homes as well, including architecture.

• Diversity: What does the diversity of our community look like to you?

• Life in Action: Whatever your preferred activity (walking, biking, kids sports, etc.), we’re looking for your best action shots.

• Pets and Wildlife: We love cuteness! Grab a shot of your pet or discovery in the wild. Photos that can be identified as taking place in Issaquah Highlands are preferred.

• Commercial: Our local businesses are part of what makes our urban village special. Whether it is a special feature on a building, an action shot, or a shot of what you love most about a particular business, show us what our Issaquah Highlands businesses mean to you.

• Drone: Do you love to capture the community from the sky? Show us your favorite view from above. Note: Per the Issaquah Highlands’ Use Restrictions and Rules: “[The Issaquah Highlands Community Association Board of Directors] will defer to the FAA guidelines on drone usage and operation however, it will enforce operator behavior which is deemed a nuisance.”

• Seasonal: Submit your favorite photo showing the unique beauty of your favorite season in Issaquah Highlands.

Contest Details and Rules

All photos entered must be taken in Issaquah Highlands and submitted as high-resolution images (photos selected for display at Blakely Hall will need to print at 16 inches by 20 inches in size). Submit photos online between May 1 and July 31, 2021. See all contest details online at issaquahhighlands.com/photography-contest.

Photo entries will be judged by Highlands Council staff and a panel of volunteer judges. All submissions are eligible for publication in our print and electronic media with photo credit. Selected photos will be printed, featured at a public reception, and displayed in the gallery at Blakely Hall when it is again open to the public.

Winners in each category and age group will receive prizes. If your photo is chosen for display in the gallery, you will also receive a mounted ready-tohang copy of your photo, like the one we will display in the Blakely Hall gallery.

Now grab your camera or camera phone and start looking for inspiration; we can’t wait to view the community through your lens.

Enter y our fav orite IH photos

by July 31!

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Spring 2021

17

HIGHLANDS COUNCIL

We Heard You!

A Recap of the Highlands Council 2021 Community Survey

by Christy Garrard Executive Director, Highlands Council and Dahlia Park Resident

Highlands Council’s mission includes providing all stakeholders a voice in community matters. Each January we ask you to Share Your Voice in a community-wide survey. We were particularly interested in how you prefer to receive your community news, and what types of community programming feels comfortable to you and your family as we remain under pandemic-related restrictions for gathering. This year, 418 individuals responded to our community-wide survey, up 50% over last year’s participation.

We heard you on a variety of topics. Here's what we learned...

Top Community Concerns

Aside from COVID-19, we asked you to select your top three community concerns. The top two responses were neighborhood crime/safety and traffic/pedestrian safety, with emergency preparedness and land development closely tied for third. This feedback has been shared with the Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA), the mayor of Issaquah, the Issaquah police chief, and Eastside Fire and Rescue.

We hope to help address your concerns in our official community media this year. We recently launched a video interview series called “Five Questions,” where Highlands Council interviews community and business leaders on important topics to our community. For upcoming video interviews, subscribe to our weekly e-news or follow our official social media, or visit issaquahhighlands.com/tag/5questions for all past interviews.

Where You Need More Information

We asked what you wish you better understood about Issaquah Highlands. Your response: plans for community improvements and land yet-to-be developed.

The IHCA has exciting improvements planned for our community-owned parks and enhancements for pedestrian safety. The IHCA is taking a more active role in managing our community gardens this year as well. Take the IHCA annual survey in April and give your feedback on park improvements and more (see page 10).

Highlands Council follows local land development by staying in contact with landowners, city planners, and the IHCA. The October issue of Connections will feature a complete development update. Breaking land development news is shared on our blog, on official social media, and on the “Development in Issaquah Highlands” webpage at issaquahhighlands.com/development.

Community News and Media

We were surprised to learn that, of those surveyed, 45% of survey participants get their general news from social media, primarily from Facebook, while only 15% source newspapers. However, when asked specifically about where you read community news, 53% of participants said print Connections, followed by 40% from Facebook.

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Because Connections is only printed seasonally in 2021, we encourage you to find community news at IssaquahHighlands.com, in the weekly e-news, and across official social media. Visit issaquahhighlands. com/connect to subscribe and follow official community media so you won’t miss important community news and updates between Connections issues this year. (Upcoming Connections issues are July (Summer) and October (Fall).)

When visiting our official community website, IssaquahHighlands.com, over 50% of participants reported finding community information online to require at least some effort. Look for an improved user experience at IssaquahHighlands.com by year-end. Interested in participating in an upcoming website usability test? Contact Vicki Grunewald, Highlands Council media editor, at vicki.g@ihcouncil.org.

Community Programming and Events

You don’t have to volunteer in our community to get involved. Based on this year’s survey results, you want more family-friendly, fun events in 2021. We have you covered. February’s Snowman Building Contest was super popular, and we had a blast playing (virtual) St Patrick’s Day Bingo in March. New this month: participate in the new community scavenger hunt (see page 14), a community photography contest (see page 16), and Resident Information Night, an engaging virtual event for new and longtime residents on April 13 (see page 14).

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If you have suggestions or questions about the community, I welcome you to contact me anytime by email at christy.g@ihcoucil.org.

Let’s keep building community together,

Christy

Learn more about crime and safety concerns in our community; don't miss our upcoming "Five Questions" video interview with Issaquah Police Department Chief Scott Behrbaum. Visit issaquahhighlands.com/connect to stay connected to all of our community's official digital media channels.

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Spring 2021

EATS

RAIN OR SHINE, IT’S TIME TO DINE We have a delicious variety of food and dining options that delight all taste buds and we are ready to take your order!

Agave Cocina Aji Sushi Bai Tong Thai Ben & Jerry’s Big Fish Grill Caffe Ladro Chinoise Cafe Jimmy John’s Mod Pizza Pinkabella Cupcakes SIP Starbucks The Habit Burger Grill The Ram

SEE WHAT’S COOKING

1451 HIGHLANDS DR NE, ISSAQUAH, WA 90829 @GRANDRIDGEPLAZA GRANDRIDGEPLAZA.COM

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Spring 2021

19

HIGHLANDS YOUTH (HY)

The Positive Impact of the HY Experience Highlands Youth Advisory Board Now Accepting Applications

by Christy Garrard Executive Director, Highlands Council and Dahlia Park Resident

Established in 2013, the Highlands Youth (HY) Advisory Board assists with the community-building work of Highlands Council, providing youth a voice in community matters. The mission of the HY board is to unify Issaquah Highlands youth through meaningful and fun social experiences, create lasting memories, and build pride in our community.

While social events were put on pause in 2020 because of the pandemic, the HY board looks forward to the return of their signature events like the annual Halloween party, the Flashlight Egg Hunt, and the end-of-school-year Night at the Carnival. Past HY service projects include building eight of our ten Little Free Libraries, Parents Night Out babysitting events, and multiple community art projects. HY Board members also participate in Highlands Council Board of Trustees meetings and serve as youth representatives on the Highlands Council branding, transportation, and crosscultural committees. Members of the HY are also invited to write for Connections, a nationally-recognized publication.

Many HY board alumni have been accepted into highly competitive universities, and some have returned to the area to begin professional careers.

HY 2021 Grads: In Their Own Words Emily Palm I feel confident walking into rooms knowing I may be the youngest person there because of the many times I have done so as a HY board representative. Perhaps most importantly, I feel confident putting myself out there and forming connections with those around me.

I cannot express how grateful I am for my time on this board. I have grown significantly as a leader, friend, and overall person from the lessons I have learned."

Emily leads a craft activity at Parents Night Out 2019. 

Jonah Foss Before joining the HY, I liked being involved in the community but was not fond of the spotlight. I have come to appreciate how the HY let me practice the compassion and conviction I think characterizes a good leader. The skills I learned from the HY transcend my work on the board; the benefits cross over into my schoolwork and even my job and other extracurriculars."

We congratulate our 2021 HY board graduating seniors, Emily Palm, Jonah Foss, Sid Thiagarajan, and Zoe Parsons.

Each of them shared unique leadership gifts with their peers and this community.

Jonah takes a break during the HY's 2019 Cram for Exams event. 

Sid Thiagarajan Apply Now! The HY board is now accepting applications for 2021-2022. Ideal candidates are motivated, outgoing, creative, and dedicated to making our community better.

Candidates must live in Issaquah Highlands and attend middle or high school in the fall of 2021. The deadline for applications is May 1.

Top applicants will be invited to a personal interview for final consideration. Apply online at issaquahhighlands. com/learn/highlands-youth.

I really enjoyed getting to work with so many different people and seeing us bring our skills and strengths together to create many successful events. I enjoyed taking on the role of co-president and taking on more responsibilities including helping to make bigger decisions, planning meetings, and interviewing potential new members. I loved getting to see the same kids at our annual events and meeting new kids."

Sid helps with cleanup after the 2018 Highlands Day fesitval. 

Zoe Parsons I learned a lot about what it takes to organize upscale community-wide events. Being able to see the process from idea to a full-on event was so interesting...The HY board was an experience unlike any of my extracurriculars throughout high school. I feel prepared and confident to go into college with a unique set of experiences and ideas so I can hopefully make an impact."

Zoe (left) serves as a trolley ambassador at the 2017 Highlands Day festival. Photo by Shubha Tirumale. 

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Spring 2021

SCHOOL SPOTLiGHT | April

21

written and produced by Tracie Jones, Wisteria Park Resident

GRE Students Receive “Reflections” Honors

Grand Ridge Elementary (GRE) students submitted many wonderful art projects to the Issaquah School District-level competition. Congratulations to GRE students Linn De Booij, Aditi Kumar, and Chuan Li for advancing to the state competition and to Anika Iyer and Jade Soukhavong for earning Honorable Mention awards. View the full gallery of 2020-21 GRE “Reflections” submissions online at padlet.com/ grandridgereflections/fdtncvgurar0e2jq.

Summer Counseling Opportunities for Middle/High School Students

ISF Driving Resources to Support All Students During the Pandemic

by Carolyn Kennedy ISF Director of Programming, and Issaquah Highlands Resident

The Issaquah Schools Foundation’s (ISF) mission is to drive resources to help all students achieve the promise of their potential. What that looks like during a pandemic is a variation of traditional support with a focus on academic support during remote learning as well as supporting the mental health needs of students.

Academic Support The foundation has historically funded and continues to fund academic support for students inside and outside the classroom. We are passionate about investing in resources that can adapt to individual student needs and increase access to literacy. During the 2020-2021 school year, the foundation donated $128,000 to support literacy. This support includes several software applications to help all students

Issaquah School District issaquah.wednet.edu

during remote learning, including online reading software. ISF also provided a grant to pilot “Learning Ally,” an online resource that includes audiobooks, particularly helpful to students who struggle with reading.

Social and Emotional Support Our current circumstances are challenging for everyone, including our students, so we want to be sure we are supporting their social and emotional needs. Funded by the foundation at all five district middle schools, “Character Strong” curriculum offers a combination of social, emotional, and character development that is effective during remote learning as well as in the school building. “Character Strong” helps support a positive culture by teaching kindness, respect, selflessness, patience, humility, forgiveness, and honesty.

For more information about ISF, please visit our website at isfdn.org. See details on our annual Nourish Every Mind even on April 29 on page 20.

April Dates 4-9 12 12 16-26 21 21

22 24 29

Spring Break, No School IHS Outstanding Educator Nominations Due IHS PTSA Senior Scholarships Due ISF Nourish Every Mind Auction Final Date for Freshman Course Selection IHS College Career Planning Entrepreneurial Workshop School Board Meeting IHS Booster Scholarship Applications Due ISF Nourish Every Mind Virtual Event

The city of Issaquah’s 2021 Counselor in Training (CIT) applications are now available. The program is designed for teens entering grades 8-11 who are enthusiastic, responsible, hardworking, and love everything camp.

Applications are due April 9. Applications and more information available online at issaquahwa.gov/1429/ Counselor-in-Training. Questions? Email Lisa Echert at lisae@issaquahwa.gov.

IHS PTSA/Boosters Senior Scholarships

The Issaquah High School Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) awards multiple $1,000 scholarships to graduating seniors who’ve displayed personal and academic growth throughout high school, for tech/vocational schools, community colleges, and universities. Applications are due April 12 via email. Information and forms are available online at issaquahhighptsa.org/Page/ Programpages/SeniorScholarships. Questions? Email IHPTSAScholarships@gmail.com. The IHS Boosters Club awards senior scholarships every spring, valued at $1,000, to selected IHS graduating seniors.

Applications are available online at ihsboosters.org/ Page/Recognition/Sr%20Scholarship. Email entries to StudentAwards.IHSBoosters@gmail.com by April 24.

PTSA Council Special Education Webinar Series

The Issaquah Parent Teacher Association (PTSA) Council – Special Education Chair Betsy Grant created a series of short webinars, 10-15 minutes in length, where she asks the Issaquah School District Special Services staff a few community questions regarding special education. Watch the webinars online at issaquahptsa.org/programs/special-education. Email Betsy Grant at special-education@issaquahptsa.org with questions or if you have suggestions for future webinars.

KCLS Teen Improv Night

Join the King County Library System (KCLS) for Teen Improv Night. Play improv games on Zoom. Express yourself and hone spontaneous creative talents to be a better group member and listener. Laugh and try something different. No prior experience necessary.

Events will be held on April 20 and May 18 at 6:30 p.m.

Register before 10 a.m. on the day of the program to be sent the Zoom link. Visit the KLCS online calendar at kcls.bibliocommons.com/events/search/index for more information and to register.

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

ON THE BLOG

This Month on the Blog

Read these upcoming stories from your Issaquah Highlands neighbors at issaquahhighlands.com/blog.

Ask Kari

Living Green

Your Organized Life

How to Motivate Your Family to Help with Household Chores

How to Get Your Family on Board for a Low-Waste Lifestyle

This Month, Say Goodbye to Your "Clothing Chair"

by Kari O’Neill, MSW, LICSW Clinical Social Worker; Owner of Issaquah Highlands Counseling Group, and Issaquah Highlands Resident

by Aline Bloch Owner of Aline’s Cardboard and Out of the Box Eco Store and Central Park Resident

by Johnna Masterson Owner of Inspired and Organized and Central Park Resident

"After researching tips from several groups of “zero-wasters” in the area, I gathered ten ways for you to get your family on board for living a greener life. First, breathe, relax, and keep your self-control. You know why you have decided to go on this path, and your goal is not to force anybody." Learn how Aline motivated her family to live greener and how you can, too.

"It’s crazy how much space our clothing takes up in our home. Making these small habits a regular part of your day will make a huge difference over time. Eventually, these habits will become second nature, and the “clothing chair” will be a distant memory." In this month's column, Johnna introduces two small habits that can have a lasting impact on your closet.

Dear Kari, "Help! My house and family are in chaos.

Since the pandemic began, we have not caught up on household chores, and our whole family system needs a reboot.

How can I start to organize everyone and get the family back on track to help with household chores?" Read Kari's answer and get tips for your family this month.

Holidays in the Highlands

Celebrating Ramadan in Turkey and in Issaquah Highlands

by Adriana Stamenova Daphne Park Resident

"I remember visiting 10-12 households in one day while having our own door knocked on that many times. We always prioritized our elderly relatives. You can’t imagine how fondly I remember those days, with our doorbell constantly ringing and seeing packs of guests arrive."

Adriana shares a story from a Turkish neighbor preparing to celebrate Ramadan in Issaquah Highlands.

SAFETY IS OUR TOP PRIORITY Your health and safety continue to be our top priorities and we have protocols in place to keep patients and caregivers safe in our hospitals and clinics.

SCREENING. We conduct routine coronavirus symptom screening on patients, visitors and employees.

MASKING. Our facilities have adopted policies that align with recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Find connection and joy

DISTANCING. We’re taking steps to ensure appropriate distance between you and other patients, visitors and staff.

IN EXTRAORDINARY TIMES

SENIOR LIVING THAT CONSIDERS YOUR NEEDS & DESIRES ESSENTIAL University House Issaquah features gardens ideal for outdoor gatherings, technology to help you connect, and a variety of stimulating virtual and distanced activities.

Schedule a virtual tour or learn more (425) 200-0331 | eraliving.com Ask about special benefits for

members.

5 STARS

HIGHEST R ATING FOR

QUALIT Y

BY CMS (CENTERS FOR MEDICARE & MEDICAID SERVICES)

SANITIZING. Our staff are regularly cleaning waiting areas and exam rooms in between visits, and hand sanitizer stations are located throughout our facilities.

SEPARATING. COVID-19 patients, as well as those caring for them, are safely isolated from the rest of the population.

VISITORS. We are limiting people coming into our facilities to those deemed essential. This helps maintain appropriate physical distancing and reduces spread of germs.

VIRTUAL VISITS. For on-demand and routine medical care, we offer virtual visits — a reliable way to see your provider from the comfort your own home.

To learn more about Swedish safety protocols, visit www.swedish.org.

SWEDISH ISSAQUAH 751 NE Blakely Drive, Issaquah, WA 98029 425-313-4000 swedish.org/issaquah

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Spring 2021

23

CITY NEWS

Central Park Pad #3 will get an upgrade this year. Central Park is a city of Issaquah park. Photo by Vicki Grunewald.

An Upgrade to Central Park and Other City News Updates Issaquah City Hall is not only busy with pandemic-related activities. Here’s a rundown of some newsworthy happenings you should know:

Central Park Pad #3 will get an upgrade.

The Issaquah City Council recently approved the replacement of the artificial turf fields at Central Park Pad #3 (the sports fields located at the most southern end of the park). The turf was installed in 2008 and is now at the end of its lifecycle. It will be replaced with an organic cork infill product that is gaining attention for being more sustainable.

The city of Seattle is beginning to convert its turf fields to cork infill, and Carol Edwards Park in Woodinville also has cork infill. The new field will cost $1.339 million and will be completed sometime this year. For updates, please visit issaquahwa.gov/PadThree.

by Stacy Goodman Issaquah City Councilmember and Kirk Park Resident

Wildfire Community Preparedness Day is May 1.

Wildfire Community Preparedness Day (WCPD) is a national campaign held the first Saturday in May to encourage people to come together to take action and raise awareness about wildfire risks. Because in-person gatherings are limited due to the pandemic, this year’s campaign is

focused on what you can do in and around your home to help protect against the threat of wildfires. Comprehensive information is available from Eastside Fire and Rescue (EFR) at eastsidefire-rescue.org/251/Wildfire-Preparedness.

Historically, Western Washington has been at low risk for major wildland and wildland-urban interface fires, but climate change, in part, can increase risk. The threat to residential neighborhoods is even more pressing.

The city and EFR are coordinating efforts to prepare for this increasing hazard, including hosting neighborhood discussions about preparedness, establishing evacuation routes, and making potential policy decisions that may impact zoning, building, and management of vegetation and open space.

To participate in this year’s WCPD, property owners can download a preparedness toolkit from nfpa.org/PublicEducation/Fire-causes-and-risks/Wildfire/Firewise-USA, choose a project, share the project on social media, and encourage others to do the same. Despite the pandemic, we can all still work together on preparedness, starting with our own properties.

Sign up for EFR’s Community Connection Program.

EFR’s Community Connect program is a free, secure, easy way to share critical information about your household or business to help first responders responding to your emergency. By providing specific information

you feel is important for first responders to know, you get better protection. I signed up, and you can, too, at communityconnect.io/info/wa-eastside.

Share your voice on equity in Issaquah.

In response to public and City Council input, the city developed a Police Accountability, Equity, and Human Services Action Plan to address enhanced police accountability, equity initiatives, and human services programs in Issaquah. There are many opportunities for public engagement. Learn more at issaquahwa.gov/equity.

Finally, I am not seeking reelection to City Council this year.

After serving for more than ten years, it’s time for me to roll off the City Council at the end of 2021.

My community involvement began in 1996 at The Issaquah Press, where I was a reporter and editor for nearly ten years.

I then went to law school and served in many volunteer roles (including the Issaquah Highlands Community Association Architectural Review Committee) before being appointed to the City Council in 2011.

Please consider serving; it’s time-intensive but extraordinarily rewarding. If you are interested in learning what it’s like to serve on the council, feel free to contact me at 425-445-5968. Candidate filing week is May 17. Find more information online at kingcounty.gov/depts/elections/ for-candidates.aspx.

Learn more about wildfire preparedness on page 26 and follow official Issaquah Highlands digital media for an upcoming "5 Questions" video interview with EFR Battalion Chief Dave McDaniel on wildfire threats in our area.

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Spring 2021

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS RESIDENTS DESERVE AN ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS EXPERT. I SSAQUA H H I G HL A N DS NUM BE RS Residential

Con dom i n i u m

M e d ian P r ic e

$935,000

+1 1 . 3 %

$619,5 00

-0.1%

Clo s e d S ale s

131

-20.6%

82

-2 1.9%

Days o n M ar k e t

5

-58.3%

13

-2 7.8%

% o f L is t / S a le

1 0 0 . 7%

+1.2%

100%

0.0%

M e d ia n P P S F

$415

+9 . 2 %

$404

+4.4%

Interested in finding out the value of your home? Get in touch today:

GEOFF WALKER • BROKER M: 425.785.7997 • O: 425.243.9000 GEOFF.WALKER@SOTHEBYSREALTY.COM Sotheby's International Realtf and the Sotheby's International Realty Logo are service marks licensed to Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC and used with permission. Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is independently owned and operated. Any services or products provided by independently owned and operated franchisees are not provided by, affiliated with or related to Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC nor any of its affIlIated companies If your property 1s listed with a real estate broker. please disregard. It Is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Spring 2021

25

SMART HOME

Planning for the Future of HFN A Recap of HFN's 2021 Community-Wide Survey In January, Highlands Fiber Network (HFN) was excited to partner with Highlands Council in their 2021 community-wide survey. HFN had not conducted a community survey since 2013. At that time, HFN received an “above average” rating from 70% of survey respondents, with 38% giving HFN an “excellent” rating. In this year’s survey, I was excited to see if the community still felt satisfied with HFN and its services.

After reviewing the 2021 survey results, the HFN Board of Directors and I were thrilled to see 67% of respondents gave

by Jeremy Fallt HFN General Manager and HFN a “satisfied” or “very satisfied” rating. In a report done by the American Customer Satisfaction Index, other internet Central Park Resident service providers in our area roughly receive a satisfaction score of 55%-66%. We are pleased to see HFN with a higher score.

Roughly 5% of survey respondents said they were “dissatisfied” or “very dissatisfied” with HFN. Please know we took all the comments left for us to heart and hope we can lower this number dramatically in our next survey.

It was reassuring to see that “fast upload and download speeds” and “reliability of service” were the top two features of HFN’s service the community valued most. We were happy to see the “HFN being a community-owned organization” as the third most valued feature. We make every attempt to put the community first in every decision we make at HFN. We do not have to worry about reporting quarterly earnings to Wall Street and instead can make the decisions based on what is best for the community.

As we look toward the future of HFN, nearly 50% of respondents said they would be most interested in a speed higher than 1 GB. We plan to stay on the cutting-edge and are already preparing to be ready when the next speed level comes. In the survey, many respondents said they were interested in having an HFN technician available to help with home network and equipment issues and having an HFN-provided router/firewall option. We will continue to explore both possibilities in the coming months and years if the demand and interest are there.

Thank you to all who responded to this year’s community-wide survey. If you have any further suggestions or comments about HFN, please contact me at jfallt@hfn.org.

Jeremy

In the past year, HFN board members have discussed the future of HFN as they try to lay the groundwork for what comes next. HFN continues to strive to improve our network reliability, and we plan to continue to be an industry leader with our speed and price. The survey was the perfect opportunity to check in with the community on this topic. Are we on the right path, or is there something else we could do better to serve our community?

HFN General Manager

We make every attempt to

put the community first in every decision we make at HFN. We do not have to worry about reporting quarterly earnings to Wall Street and instead can make the decisions based on what is best for the community."

This question was asked as part of the Highlands Council/HFN 2021 community-wide survey. More than 400 people responded to the survey.

Highlands Fiber Network: Community-Owned Fiber to the Home

For rates and information, contact HFN Customer Service: highlandsfibernetwork.com

(425) 427-0999

support@hfnservices.com

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Issaquah Highlands Connections

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

How You Can Prepare for Wildfire Threats at Home One Sunday morning in October 1991, I was walking along the shores of San Francisco Bay on Alameda Island when I noticed a huge cloud of dark gray smoke rising from Oakland Hills to the north.

Eyewitness reports testify that a small ember from a smoldering fire extinguished the night before and overhauled by firefighters through the night blew into a tree outside the burn area. With an unusually high east wind and record high temperatures, the tree exploded into flame, and the resulting fire quickly went out of control. This was the Oakland firestorm of 1991 that left 25 people dead, 150 people injured, and 3,469 homes destroyed over 1,500 acres.

by Bob Otis CERT Team 9 Member and Dahlia Park Resident

Fifteen years later, in 2005, we moved to Issaquah, and having witnessed the Oakland firestorm, I couldn’t help wondering whether a similar event could happen here. After experiencing climate change in Issaquah Highlands over the past 15 years, my primary concern is fire for several reasons: • Western Washington is now considered just as high a fire risk as eastern Washington.

• Residential growth has occurred in our area, but the capacity to move traffic remains unchanged.

• Maturing, protected greenbelts provide a wealth of flammable debris and underbrush that feed devastating fires.

House and yards can survive a fire. As a homeowner, you can protect your family and your investment. Start by taking the following precautions every year.

Review and securely store important documents.

Make sure your insurance policies and personal documents, including your ID, are up to date. Make copies and keep them in a secure password-protected digital space so they can be accessed from anywhere.

Strengthen your home’s defensible space.

Use fire-resistant materials when renovating or making repairs to your home. Create a fire-resistant zone at least 30 feet around your home that is free of leaves, debris, or flammable materials.

Know your evacuation plan.

You may have to evacuate quickly. Have go-bags ready, know your evacuation routes, practice with household pets, and identify where you will go to connect with loved ones. Make sure everyone in your household knows and understands what to do to quickly evacuate. Know how the pandemic would affect your plans.

Be aware of community resources.

You’ll want to follow instructions from local authorities because, as the situation evolves, they will know the quickest and safest evacuation routes. Know where local shelters may be and how you will cope with being in a shelter during the pandemic. Tune in to Issaquah’s emergency communication radio station at 1700 AM for instructions and information.

With the threat of wildfire growing nationally, the National Fire Protection Association has created the Firewise USA® program and has set aside May 1 as Wildfire Community Preparedness Day. To participate, download the 2021 toolkit at nfpa.org/wildfireprepday and use it to plan your project.

Eastside Fire and Rescue (EFR) will also actively participate in Firewise USA® in May and throughout the summer.

Watch for local presentations to answer questions and address concerns.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Ready.gov Wildfires Preparedness Guide ready.gov/wildfires National Fire Protection Association nfpa.org/Public-Education Wildfire Community Preparedness Day nfpa.org/wildfireprepday Washington Department of Natural Resources dnr.wa.gov/WildfirePrevention “Living with Fire: A Guide for the Homeowner" Published by the Washington Department of Natural Resources dnr.wa.gov/publications/rp_fireprevent_living_ with_wildfire.pdf

Follow official Issaquah Highlands digital media for an upcoming "5 Questions" video interview with EFR Battalion Chief Dave McDaniel on wildfire threats in our area.

Visit issaquahhighlands.com/connect to stay connected to all of our community's official digital media channels.

Issaquah Highlands Connections

Spring 2021

RENTAL FACILITIES

DIRECTORY NOTE: Offices are slowly reopening in accordance with the state's Safe Start program.

Contact staff members by email or call each office's main line to confirm office hours and staff availability.

ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION 2520 NE Park Drive Suite B Monday–Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm

MAIN PHONE: 425-427-9257 | AFTER HOURS: 425-223-8887 | IssaquahHighlands.com Governing Body Responsible for:

Property Management Enforcement of CCRs, Rules, Regs

Architectural Review

Common Area Landscape

Board of Directors ihcaboard @ihcommunity.org Jim Young, President Rossie Cruz, Vice President Dan Vradenburg, Treasurer Greg Underwood, Secretary Bryan Shiflett, Director Elizabeth Parker Gregg, Director Bertan Aygun, Director

Funded by:

Annual IHCA Assessments Neighborhood Assessments

Blakely Hall 2550 NE Park Drive Monday–Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm*

MAIN PHONE: 425-507-1107 | IssaquahHighlands.com Governing Body

Board of Trustees hcbot@ihcouncil.org Kimberly Kapustein, President David Ngai, Treasurer Anna Preyapongpisen, Secretary Chris Beaudoin, Trustee Zach Hall, Trustee Phil Nored, Trustee Jimmy Ochiltree, Trustee Lisa Soboslai, Trustee Larry Norton, President Emeritus Ami Desai-Mehta, Emeritus

Funded by:

Sponsorships/Grants & Advertising Community Enhancement Fees (1/4 of 1% on sale of home) Retail/Commercial pays by the square foot, Rental Apartments by the door Christy Garrard, Executive Director | christy.g@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1110 Michele McFarland, Controller | michele.m@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1108 Lindsey Pinkston, Community Program Manager | lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org, 425-507-1109 Vicki Grunewald, Media Editor | vicki.g@ihcouncil.org Katie Cannon, Graphic Designer and Social Media Coordinator | katie.c@ihcouncil.org

HIGHLANDS FIBER NETWORK Jeremy Fallt, General Manager jfallt@HFN.org, 425-394-4184

Governing Body: Board of Directors Charlie Herb, President Larry Norton, Vice President Allen Enebo, Treasurer Tim Underwood, Secretary

Howard Kapustein, Director David Ngai, Director Frank Pineau, Director

Fire Station #73 Meeting Room Homestreet Bank

Conference Room 909 Northeast Ellis Dr. | 425-677-2210 homestreet.com/branches/issaquah-branch Community Rooms 930 NE High St. | 425-270-6800 ywcaworks.org/locations/family-village-issaquah

CONNECTIONS WINNER 2020 Neighborhoods, USA Nonprofit Print Newsletter of the Year!

Connections: By Community, For Community Connections is a nationally recognized monthly community newspaper written mostly by volunteer-resident writers, edited and published by Highlands Council. Connections helps Highlands Council fulfill its mission to develop a vibrant and caring community committed to service, diversity, stewardship and well-being.

Join the Connections Team Highlands Council is always looking for volunteer contributors.

Contact Lindsey Pinkston, Community Program Manager, at lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org.

Submit an Announcement for “Milestones” See your announcements published in the new life “Milestones” section of Connections. We accept birth/adoption, graduation, marriage, obituary and culturally-recognized life milestone announcements for Issaquah Highlands residents only. See submission form and guidelines at IssaquahHighlands.com.

Interested in Advertising in our media?

For more information, contact Christy Garrard, Highlands Council Executive Director, at christy.g@ihcouncil.org.

More information, ad packets/pricing, editorial calendar at issaquahhighlands.com/connect/connections-news.

Opinions expressed either by paid advertisers or editorial content do not necessarily reflect the views of Highlands Council or this newspaper.

Highlands Council reserves the right to accept or refuse submissions, and to edit content. We also reserve the right to refuse advertising or content that in our opinion does not reflect the standards of this paper.

GET INVOLVED Getting more involved in our community is a fun and easy way to meet people and contribute to the participatory culture of Issaquah Highlands.

* Excluding holidays and private event closures.

Customer Service: 425-427-0999 | HighlandsFiberNetwork.com

Blakely Hall is Issaquah Highlands’ award-winning community center that feels like a luxury lodge. With a variety of meeting, art & dining spaces, an outdoor patio, and adjacent park, it accommodates groups from 5 -200. See BlakelyHall.com for more information or contact us with your questions.

YWCA Family Village

HIGHLANDS COUNCIL

Blakely Hall Social Programs

Community Garden Connections Newspaper IssaquahHighlands.com BlakelyHall.com

E-Letter Official Social Media

Blakely Hall

2550 NE Park Drive 425-507-1107 | info@blakelyhall.com | BlakelyHall.com

1280 NE Park Drive 425-313-3200 | eastsidefire-rescue.org/Facilities

Sarah Hoey, Executive Director | sarah.h@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1120 Barbara Hendrikse, Senior Accountant & Benefits Coordinator | barbara.h@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1123 Kristyn McKinnon, Accounting Manager | kristyn.m@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1117 Soledad Ruiz, Account Receivable Specialist | soledad.r@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1119 Blair Krieg, Community Manager | blair.k@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1121 Debbie Orosco, Community Manager | deborrah.o@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1134 Lyle Dickey, Landscape Manager | lyle.d@ihcommunity.org Matthew Hendrikse, Maintenance Facilities Manager | matthew.h@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1137 Billing Inquiries | payments@ihcommunity.org, 425-507-1119 General Inquiries | asktheihca@ihcommunity.org

Responsible for:

27

Visit issaquahhighlands.com/volunteer for more information or contact Lindsey at lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org or 425-507-1109.

  

@issaquahhighlands @IssHighlands @issaquahhighlands Sign up for our weekly e-news at issaquahhighlands.com

EMERGENCY Emergency: 9-1-1 Issaquah Police (non-emergency) 425-837-3200 WA Dept of Fish & Wildlife 425-775-1311

Emergency Contact Number For after-hours emergencies not involving police and fire response or gas or water main breaks, contact IHCA at 425-223-8887

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Issaquah Highlands Connections