HomeMy WebLinkAbout2000-06-12 Committee of the Whole MinutesCITY COUNCIL OF WHOLE COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES
CALL TO ORDER: Council President Joe Duffie called the Committee of the Whole meeting
to order and led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL: Council Analyst Lucy Lauterbach called the roll of Council. Present were
Council President Joe Duffie; and Councilmembers Joan Hernandez, Pam Carter, Jim Haggerton,
Pamela Linder, David Fenton, and Richard Simpson.
OFFICIALS: Steve Mullet, Mayor; John McFarland, City Administrator; Bob Noe, City
Attorney; Vicki Jessop, Administrative Services Director; Jim Morrow, Public Works Director;
Keith Haines, Chief of Police; Bob Abbott, Crime Prevention Officer; Bill Denton, Police
Officer; Frank Iriarte, Franchise Coordinator; and Lucy Lauterbach, Council Analyst.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS:
TUKWILA CITY COUNCIL
June 12, 2000 7:00 p.m.
Council Chambers City Hall
a. Update on 1995 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP)
Staff member Matthew Kitchen of Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) updated the Council
on the 1995 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP). Puget Sound Regional Council is the
State and Federal recognized Metropolitan Organization for four counties in central Puget Sound.
As the responsible agency, PSRC is required under the Federal Transportation Law and the
State's Growth Management Act to update the Regional Transportation Plan through a regional
planning effort between member agencies. Through the Council's planning efforts,
recommendations are submitted for allocation of both state and federal transportation funds. The
Council also provides a variety of data sources related to various planning efforts. These include
employment and population forecasts. The Council's long -range planning horizon is 30 years.
Mr. Kitchen distributed information to Councilmembers on the analytical process for updating
the plan and an environmental scoping document, which provides a more detailed scope of work.
A Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) is scheduled to be released in August, 2000,
which includes three different transportation planning alternatives. Mr. Kitchen reviewed those
alternatives currently under consideration. They include:
Current Financial Trend Alternative. This alternative examines various types of
investments could be accomplished based on available funding sources. The
alternative will identify all current transportation funding sources and project long
range investments. He noted there are significant funding shortfalls in all major
transportation program areas.
Implement Adopted MTP this alternative would examine transportation projects
identified in the 1995 MTP, which includes system- driven projects such as HOV,
transit and non motorized systems.
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Examine additional transportation system management strategies beyond the 1995
MTP this alternative would examine broad investments in roadway capacity with an
emphasis on arterial roadways, recognizing that the region has a deficit of collector
and arterial streets. Additionally, the alternative would examine a variety of ways to
better manage current systems, such as Intelligent Transportation Systems that
provides a variety of technological and services tools to increase efficiency of the
existing transportation system. Other strategies will include looking at local growth
management plans to assist in better utilization of the existing transportation network.
Mr. Kitchen reviewed the timeline for updating the MTP. A public hearing is scheduled for
December 2000.
b. Report from Dr. Michael Silver, Tukwila School District Ikawa trip
Dr. Michael Silver, Superintendent, Tukwila School District, introduced several participants who
assisted with planning efforts for the Sister City trip. He thanked members of the Tukwila Sister
Cities Committee and the City for providing the opportunity for adults and students to visit
Ikawa, Japan. He reported the nine -day trip was an invaluable experience in the areas of
knowledge and experience; with relationships and family ties that resulted.
Dr. Silver introduced Janet Trinh, an eighth grade student from Tukwila, who gave a slide
presentation on highlights of the trip. Trip highlights included local schools, city life, and
transportation systems. Dr. Silver noted 19 students and 25 adults participated in the visit
Ikawa. One of the highlights of the trip was a banquet that included several gift presentations to
participants. He shared that Tukwila students learned about Ikawa's schools and their traditions
and customs. Dr. Silver described how Ikawa high school students participate in the upkeep and
maintenance of their school.
Sister Cities Committee member Kate Ostrom recognized Don Jenkins and Audrey Davis for
their efforts in planning the trip. Ms. Ostrom shared pictures of the trip and commented on the
overall results of the trip.
Ms. Ostrom reported on the upcoming trip by Ikawa Sister Cities representatives, which is
anticipated for late September or early October. She described the various planning activities
required for that effort.
Council President Duffle thanked Dr. Silver and all the participants for sharing information about
the trip.
c. Reports from Mayor Mullet and Councilmembers
Mayor Mullet briefed the Council on his experiences during the trip and on conversations he had
with Ikawa's mayor. He noted Ikawa, as a city, is experiencing many of the same issues that face
U.S. cities, such as replacing old infrastructure. The Ikawa Council meets quarterly during a 10-
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15 day meeting session. They do not conduct weekly or evening meetings. This is one of the
reasons why the fall trip dates have not been determined. Ikawa's Council includes 14 members.
Committee meetings are held during the quarterly session.
Mayor Mullet said Ikawa also experiences revenue problems, like most cities. He commented on
the beauty of the city and the rural area. To increase revenues, Ikawa has constructed a ski
resort, which produces a significant amount of revenue and a city garden, which produces cut
flowers for sale.
Mayor Mullet described the narrow streets that often allow only one lane of traffic. Mirrors are
used frequently around the city to alert drivers of oncoming traffic at blind spots. One major
project is a roadway through the mountain, which will allow traffic to bypass the downtown and
travel directly to the mountain's ski resort. Funding for transportation projects is similar to cities
in the U.S. However, cities in Japan have more responsibility for construction and maintenance
of local schools. He noted that Ikawa recently constructed a new water plant.
Mayor Mullet shared his fascination about the old world activities and current issues Ikawa is
facing. Some issues facing the city include housing for younger people. Mayor Mullet remarked
that more time would have been beneficial along with fewer structured activities.
Mayor Mullet responded to questions from Councilmembers and reported Ikawa's population is
approximately 6,000. In the recent past, the population was as high as 10,000, however with the
departure of young people, the population has decreased. He described the police system and
indicated Ikawa has three assigned policemen. They do not work directly for the city. He noted
that vending machines are very popular with most of them not housed in a building but located
off the streets. Vending machines feature a variety of different products from clothing to alcohol.
According to officials, drug- related problems are not an issue in Ikawa.
Councilmember Hernandez described her experiences as well. She noted how valuable the
experience was and acknowledged with appreciation the work of the Sister Cities Committee.
During the trip, she attended a Council meeting, which included a proclamation thanking the
Tukwila delegation for participating in the Sister Cities Program.
Councilmember Hernandez was surprised to see modern freeways, although they were toll
freeways. She commented on the people's generosity and the abundance of gifts they received
from their hosts. She stayed with the Council President and his family during her stay in Ikawa.
He has served on the Council for 24 years. His father, who served for 30 years, preceded him.
His grandfather served 16 years on the Council. Although neither spoke the other's language,
she indicated it did not take long for a friendship and bond to develop.
Councilmember Hernandez shared information on the reunion between her and a woman she had
hosted in Tukwila several years ago during an Ikawa delegation trip. The lady was a science
teacher who traveled with a group of students from Ikawa. Councilmember Hernandez said she
had lost contact with her and was somewhat concerned about her. However, she was present
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when the Tukwila delegation arrived and Councilmember Hernandez was able to re- establish
contact with her during her stay.
Councilmember Hernandez thanked Committee members and other participants for their efforts
to ensure the success of the trip and distributed mementos to Councilmembers who did not
travel.
Councilmember Carter shared photos of her experiences. She commented that she observed no
police patrols during her visit, however she did see some police activity related to gangsters. She
commented on how safe she felt in the environment.
Councilmember Carter said it was beneficial for the group to visit Ikawa to understand the
relationship between the two cities better. A book about the 20 -year Sister City relationship was
presented to Councilmembers, which includes information on previous Ikawa delegation trips
and names of past host families in Tukwila.
Councilmember Carter pointed out the location of Ikawa on a map and indicated the length of the
trip was appropriate due to everyone's schedules and commitments. She summed up her visit as
a great learning experience. Having the students along also enhanced the experience. A major
component of the trip was the students, which is unusual in most other Sister City relationships.
However, it is very positive for the Tukwila/Ikawa Sister City relationship.
Councilmember Linder reported she took 21 rolls of film during her visit of the beautiful
country, temples, and shrines. She shared information on the history of the county dating back
1,000 years and described various encounters she and other delegates had with students and
adults from Ikawa. Often times, students would request permission to practice their English
skills with her. During walks through the narrow alleyways, shopkeepers would run out and
greet them. One man, in his early 30's rushed out and shared his experience of a previous
delegate trip made to Tukwila. Many people acknowledged and shared information on previous
delegate trips they had made to Tukwila. She commented on how the whole town seemed to be
involved in the Sister City relationship. They also made the students feel special by greeting
them when the bus stopped at various venues.
Councilmember Linder summed up her visit as a wonderful experience and said she is looking
forward to hosting a delegate from Ikawa in the fall.
Council President Duffle thanked everyone for sharing their experiences during the Ikawa Sister
City trip and recessed the meeting for a five minute break.
CITIZEN COMMENT'S /CORRESPONDENCE:
There were no citizen comments.
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SPECIAL ISSUES:
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a. Medical Savings Account/Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association
(MSA/VEBA) Plan for public service employees
Administrative Services Director Viki Jessop briefed the Council on the Medical Savings
Account /Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association Plan, which is a tax -free medical savings
account program that employees may use to pay out -of- pocket health care expenses, both before
and after retirement. The program includes an option for City contributions, however; staff
proposes employee contributions only.
Director Jessop introduced Trust Consultant Peter Laney from the Western Washington Regional
Director of the VEBA Services Group. Mr. Laney provided an overview of the plan and
explained that VEBA is a Voluntary Employees Beneficiary Association, a trust established
under internal Revenue Code, Section 501(c)(9). The trust was established in 1990 for cities,
towns, and special tax districts in the Northwest. The VEBA allows funding to go into an
account that is free of federal income and social security tax. The funds earn tax -free interest and
withdrawals are tax -free. Funds can only be used for medical, dental, or vision purposes. The
Internal Revenue Service stipulates that personal choice is not allowed with respect to how much
an employee can contribute to their account.
Mr. Laney said each employee bargaining group (non- represented, teamsters, LEOFF, etc.) can
establish the funding level independent of other bargaining groups. The proposal under
consideration involves only non represented employees.
Director Jessop reported the process began last fall with meetings of all bargaining units and
non represented employees. The program provides an opportunity for employees to set aside
money today that is available now or in the future after they retire. Money remaining in the
account of a deceased participant passes onto the dependents. Participants can also designate
three different funds for investment of their funds. These range from low to high -risk funds.
Director Jessop said the difficult part of the process was securing a decision from non-
represented employees. Forty employees represent the non represented group. The plan was
explained to each employee with a majority indicating a desire to participate. The majority of
non represented employees agreed with a percentage of their monthly wage and a percentage of
the employee's unused sick leave accruals as their contribution to their account. After providing
employees with additional information on their respective contribution, the majority of the non-
represented employees (36 out of 40) supported the plan.
Councilmember Carter asked if funds could be accessed for a large co -pay, such as a Medicare
deductible, to avoid having an employee /retiree pay the up front costs. Mr. Laney provided an
example of how funds can be disbursed to a medical care provider before a medical procedure.
Councilmembers discussed the option of establishing a MSA /VEBA account for themselves.
Director Jessop explained how an account could be established for Councilmembers and
indicated a group decision would be required. Councilmembers requested additional
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information about the program. Councilmember Carter recommended referring the matter to the
Finance and Safety Committee for further review. Councilmembers concurred.
The Council agreed to forward the request for approval at the next regular Council meeting
directed the Finance and Safety Committee to investigate an account for the Council.
b. Computer Support Assistant position
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Director Jessop noted the Information Systems Division is part of Administrative Services.
Currently, there is a need for an additional employee. Two employees are assigned to the
division and have responsibility for the City's five Novell servers and networks, three Microsoft
NT servers and networks, approximately 200 computers, 60 printers, and numerous software
programs. Consequently, much of the clerical and administrative tasks are backlogged and
unfinished. An additional employee would staff the "Help Desk," answer phones, process
paperwork, and handle computer backup systems.
Councilmember Carter requested staff provide information on other positions included in Range
12 and the annual cost of the position. Director Jessop said annual costs would be
approximately $44,000, which includes benefits. Personnel costs for 2000 would depend on
when the position is filled.
Council agreed to move the request to the next regular meeting for approval. Director Jessop
confirmed she would provide the additional information as requested by Councilmember Carter.
c. Olympic Pipeline update
Public Works Director Jim Morrow updated the Council on Olympic Pipeline safety activities.
Director Morrow reported significant actions to increase safety awareness have occurred since
the pipeline explosion in Bellingham last year.
Tukwila has two pipelines. One is a 12" line that travels from Renton to SeaTac. The line runs
approximately one and three quarters of a mile through Tukwila. The pipeline transports
approximately 7,000 barrels of jet fuel to the airport per day. It was installed in 1979 and is
constructed of Kaiser steel. Director Morrow noted both pipelines within the City are
constructed of different materials than the one that exploded in Bellingham. The second pipeline
is a 14" pipe that was installed in 1965. It travels from Renton to Portland and carries 7,500
barrels of oil per day. The pipeline runs approximately one mile through the City.
Director Morrow reported staff has attended all pipeline meetings held over the last nine months.
Several meetings have also been held between Tukwila and Olympic Pipeline officials. Staff has
reviewed test data pertaining to the pipelines located within Tukwila. Olympic officials have
been cooperative in responding to Tukwila's inquires and have furnished drawings of where the
pipelines are located within the City. However, there are several outstanding issues, such as
results from ongoing testing that are currently being conducted.
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Because of the explosion, Olympic Pipeline contracted with an expert pipeline consultant CT
Technologies. The company has extensive pipeline experience and has been contracted to
perform all tests on the pipeline to allay public fears that Olympic Pipeline might be hiding
information from the public. Pipeline valves will also be tested. Tukwila has only two valves.
Director Morrow said one of the tests includes checking the accuracy of the valves to determine
if they are properly placed to handle the product volume. Director Morrow said he and Fire
Chief Tom Keefe have some concerns regarding the adequacy of the valves. There may be an
inadequate number of valves to control the pipeline in case of an incident.
Another issue that has not been answered is another test for protection against pipeline corrosion.
He reported Olympic pipeline is constantly checking the pipeline in different locations for
pipeline corrosion. The test is performed every year. Previous tests have revealed no problems
with the pipeline located within the City.
Director Morrow said the greatest danger of the pipeline is not in its operation but to others who
may be working too close to the pipeline and who accidentally hit it. The City works to ensure
that all utilities have been located first before any work is authorized on a site.
Councilmember Carter asked Director Morrow to respond to the publicity surrounding the
Bellingham tragedy contending Tukwila did not know where the pipeline was located within the
City. Director Morrow confirmed Tukwila knew the exact location and depth of the pipeline
located within Tukwila.
Council President Duffle asked how deep the pipeline is buried and the thickness of the pipe.
Director Morrow replied the pipeline is buried approximately four feet. The pipeline is 1/4" thick.
Councilmember Haggerton asked how deep the pipeline was buried near the proximity of I -5 and
inquired if the area was prone to slides. Director Morrow responded that no problems have been
detected with the location of the pipe. Councilmember Haggerton suggested the most vulnerable
location seems to be near I -5.
Councilmember Fenton questioned if staff or representatives from Olympic Pipeline have walked
the location of the pipeline and if there are adequate markings to alert the public of its location.
Director Morrow indicated the pipeline is marked both above and below the surface. The
pipeline has been inspected when ongoing construction work is occurring in the vicinity.
Public Works Coordinator Frank Iriarte briefed the Council on past events that have led to the
proposed interlocal agreement. After the pipeline explosion, the Bellingham Mayor organized a
meeting and invited other stakeholders to discuss pipeline safety. From there, the group began to
organize as the pipeline safety forum. Participants discussed the need to create a formal entity to
provide the legal and technical means to address pipeline safety concerns and to ascertain what
Olympic Pipeline would be doing to prevent a future accident from occurring. Members agreed
to pursue formalizing a Washington City and County Pipeline Safety Consortium. Each city or
county was invited to become a member of the consortium with an agreement to sign the
interlocal agreement and contribute at least $5,000 to the consortium. Based on the goals and
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objectives, this fee would likely increase, dependent upon on whether the consortium hires a
pipeline consultant to review and analyze test results.
Coordinator Iriarte said three cities and one county have signed the interlocal agreement. Some
cities are taking a "wait and see attitude" to see what the consortium will pursue regarding
monitoring and promoting pipeline safety. The cities of Tumwater, Bellevue, and Redmond
have signed the agreement. Thurston County has also signed.
Coordinator Iriarte outlined three options for consideration:
Join the consortium and sign the agreement.
Do not join the consortium.
Delay joining and wait to see what progress the consortium makes.
Councilmember Haggerton, Chair of the Utilities Committee reported on the results of the
Committee's discussion. Concerns by the Committee included:
Would the consortium provide Tukwila anything that could be accomplished independent of
the consortium? Committee members believed Tukwila has a good relationship with the
Olympic Pipeline Company, State of Washington, and the federal government and has been
able to satisfy most of its needs working independently.
Concerns that the initial $5,000 leaves the door open for an undefined financial commitment
by the City.
Too much responsibility given to the Executive Board.
No annual budget.
Members did not see an advantage of joining the consortium at this time.
The Committee recommends not joining at this time.
Director Morrow reported staff is also recommending against joining at this time. He advised the
Council that staff would keep the Council informed about the progress of the tests and any other
developments concerning pipeline safety.
a. An ordinance ensuring safety in overnight lodging
Police Chief Keith Haines reviewed the revised proposed hotel /motel ordinance and recognized
staff for their work. He noted some improvements have been made to the ordinance based on
input during the public hearing. Those changes include eliminating the category of groups as 1,
2, and 3 and incorporating several recommendations to improve the ordinance. The proposed
changes include:
Revising Section 7. 5.60.060 to reflect, "Semi- annual calls for police service greater than 1.0
per room." This would still include most of the hotels and motels that have the most trouble
with crime. It puts an appropriate distance between low and high crime hotels and the
change will gain support from the hotel /motel industry.
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Revising Section 6. 5.60.050 to reflect, "Semi- annual calls for police service greater than 1.0
per room.
Revising Section 6. 5.60.050 to read, "The Tukwila Police Department will offer a crime
prevention assessment to those properties."
Chief Haines introduced industry representatives Frank Welton from the Doubletree Hotel and
Suites, and Becky Beaugard from the Washington State Hotel and Motel Association.
Frank Welton. General Manaeer, Doubletree Hotel and Suites, Tukwila and representative
of the Hilton hotels in Tukwila thanked the Council for providing the opportunity for members
of the hotel and motel industry to work with the City on the ordinance. He noted that most of his
concerns have been addressed, especially with the revision of the thresholds. However, there are
some concerns with the some of the language. He requested additional time for the hotel's legal
counsel to review some of the provisions. He noted that language under the "Whereas" sections
is fairly broad and cited the first "Whereas" because it classifies all motel and hotel into one
category, which is negative in nature and could deter potential guests from coming to the area.
Becky Beauiard, Leeislative Counsel, Washington State Hotel/Motel Association.
commented that the Council previously asked her about the number of hotel /motel properties in
Tukwila who are members of the association. She reported that generally, the association
represents over one half of the hotel /motel rooms in Tukwila.
Ms. Beaugard stressed concern with the tone of the "whereas's" within the ordinance as they
tend to be accusatory. Additionally, there is no recognition of the many voluntary measures
properties have implemented to help keep crime rates low, such as employee safety training and
attendance at workshops and training sessions offered by the National Association of Hotels and
Motels. Because the "Whereas's" set the tone of the ordinance, it is important to include positive
aspects and acknowledge those hotels and motels that are doing positive things within the
community. She requested additional time to work on the language, especially because the
language is incorporated as findings within the ordinance.
Councilmembers and the representatives discussed the timeline for
ordinance and agreed to schedule a review of the ordinance at the
Committee meeting.
After further discussion regarding the timeliness of revising some
Administrator McFarland recommended scheduling a special meeting
additional week to work on revisions.
Councilmember Linder addressed her concerns and asked the Finance
consider the following issues when reviewing the ordinance:
additional review of the
next Finance and Safety
the ordinance language,
on July 26 to provide an
and Safety Committee to
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On page 35, Section 2, #3, a clarification should be included on what constitutes as a call for
service. She explained that some calls, such as a 911 emergency should not be counted
against an establishment.
On page 36, Section 7, #2, the section is not clear and the requirement does not indicate a
compelling reason for requiring the information. According to the City Attorney, there has to
be a compelling reason for requiring the information. She suggested elaborating on why it is
compelling. Crime Prevention Officer Bob Abbott responded that the compelling reason is
stated in "Whereas #8. He referred to an industry publication called "Security and Loss
Prevention Management," which is published by the Educational Institute of the American
Hotel and Motel Association." He quoted a passage concerning the issue of privacy of
employees that addressed the need to adequately screen hotel /motel job applicants. Such
failure can be disastrous as a court case in Arizona revealed after a large award to the
husband of a woman murdered by a hotel employee.
On page 36, Section 7, #5, although Councilmember Linder agreed with the provision, she
requested more information as to the rational basis of why it is required.
On page 36, Section 7, #8, she requested the provision requiring parking passes be
strengthened.
On page 36, Section 7, #10, she requested clarification on what it means to "participate" in a
"Criminal Trespass Program." At what level is participation required?
On page 37, Section 7, #12, what does "immediately" mean?
On page 37, Section 8, she referred to the provision stating, "The City Clerk may revoke,
suspend, or refuse to issue the City of Tukwila license for that business for a reasonable
period to be fixed by him/her" and suggested it might not be appropriate for the City Clerk to
determine those actions and requested additional review of the provision.
Councilmember Carter commented on the following sections and provided recommendations:
The first "Whereas" is entirely appropriate because it is a true statement. She agreed with the
suggestion that additional "Whereas's" could be included to recognize some hotels and
motels that are doing an excellent job in eliminating and managing criminal behavior within
their establishments.
She requested "active neighbors" in the fifth "Whereas" be more appropriately defined, such
as active in a positive way. "Active neighbors" could apply to negative behavior. She
suggested using different terminology to describe the intent.
Based on the definition provided by the City Attorney's Office with respect to the definition
of "Hotel" and "Motel," Councilmember Carter said she prefers using "Hotel" and "Motel"
within the ordinance to provide clarity and clear definition within Tukwila's Municipal Code
(TMC) for the average citizen when referring to the TMC for guidance.
She suggested Section 6, #1 and Section 7, #1 should be reworded as the preceding sections
are not requirements.
What is meant by Section 10, "Remedies Cumulative Attorney Noe reported he requested
the addition of the section on "cumulative remedies" because if the ordinance does not
include the provision, it could be deemed as an exclusive remedy for rectifying problems,
such as crime at hotels and motels.
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She questioned if other references to required licenses for a particular type of business were
routinely listed in ordinances. Staff reported that other licenses required of a particular
business are not generally referenced in other ordinances that might pertain to the business.
Councilmember Carter said she supports the proposed ordinance with her suggestions.
Discussion ensued on whether it is important to also include information to substantiate if a
provision is legally defensible. Attorney Noe disclosed that each of the requirements has to be
supported by something that justifies the passage. The information should be reviewed by the
Council to ensure their awareness as to why the provision is included and it also should be
included in the "Whereas" provisions. He noted that since the ordinance is controversial, it
would be important to include clear provisions to ensure that if legally challenged, the court
could accurately interpret the Council's intent with respect to requirements within the ordinance.
Attorney Noe responded to Council's concerns about strengthening the ordinance and including
more "Whereas's" and to the availability of counsel to attend the Finance and Safety Committee
meeting. He responded to Councilmember Hernandez question about Marie White's concerns
with respect to the ordinance. Attorney Noe said he is not sure if Ms. White has the most recent
version of the ordinance and said he would follow up with her.
The proposed ordinance was referred to the Finance and Safety Committee for additional work
and revisions based on the Council's discussion.
e. Discussion of Mayor's salary
Mayor Mullet recused himself from the remaining portion of the meeting.
Councilmember Hernandez reported the Finance and Safety Committee reviewed the Mayor's
salary and agreed the salary should be increased. Committee members reviewed comparable
salaries from other jurisdictions and other pertinent information. The Committee recommends
increasing the Mayor's salary by $20,000 this year for a total salary of $50,000. An existing
ordinance sets the Mayor's salary through the end of the year. However, the Committee
preferred to move forward with a recommendation before the end of the year with an effective
date of July 1, 2000.
Councilmember Haggerton noted the Committee did not have access to the letter from
Administrator McFarland (included in the Council's agenda packet). At the Council retreat,
there were discussions to increase the Mayor's salary over what was decided four years ago on an
incremental basis. The previous plan increased the Mayor's salary in 1998, 1999, and 2000.
Last year the increase was 10% over the 1998 salary. This year it was 8% over the 1999 salary,
making this year's salary $30,012.00. This issue was discussed between members along with
input from department heads and staff. He noted the Mayor had, at his own choice, assumed the
Mayor's position as a full -time position.
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Councilmember Haggerton reported after the retreat discussion, which included a tiered system
of incremental increases, he and Councilmembers Fenton and Simpson raised the matter during a
Finance and Safety Committee meeting and suggested resolving the issue by considering a fair
and equitable salary. He noted the salaries of other mayor's range from low to high, with some
salaries too high. Councilmember Haggerton said he recommended a salary of $50,000 per year
effective July 1, 2000. This represents a 67% increase over the current salary, which was
approved by the Council four years ago and also approved by the City's Mayor, who was at that
time, a Councilmember.
Councilmember Haggerton suggested addressing and resolving the issue as soon as possible to
avoid negative repercussions between the Mayor and the Council. He noted his embarrassment
with the Mayor's comment of preferring a salary higher than $50,000 on the Council Agenda
Synopsis (CAS). He emphasized he did not question the Mayor's dedication and work, but
suggested the Mayor is new to the job, and an increase to $50,000 is more than fair, based on
previous action by the Council of incremental increases.
Administrator McFarland clarified that the Mayor did not see the letter that was written to the
Council. The letter was written to give the Council his professional opinion of what the Mayor's
salary should be.
Council Analyst Lauterbach reported she prepared the CAS, which included the comment that
the mayor would prefer a salary higher than $50,000. She noted she included the reference as the
Mayor has expressed a desire for a higher salary. Administrator McFarland pointed out the
Mayor does not want to put pressure on the Council about his salary.
Councilmember Simpson affirmed his belief that the Mayor's salary should be adjusted to reflect
the current requirements of the position. The problem has been an issue for several years and
should be resolved immediately.
Councilmember Carter commented the City has grown and now represents between 60,000 to
80,000 citizens during the day. She pointed to the staffing of both the Fire and Police
Departments as an indication of the responsibility the City has to the populace. She pointed out a
nearby City Council, with a population similar to Tukwila's, takes off the whole summer.
Tukwila's Council meets every week in addition to weekly Committee meetings. She noted
recent activities such as Sound Transit, the effects of two major airports, the regional shopping
mall, the recent advent of Internet businesses, and Council's direction to become involved in
regional affairs demonstrate the responsibilities and expectation of the Mayor's position. The
Council expects the Mayor to accomplish more than in previous years. Attracting people with
the skills and knowledge requires an annual salary that is comparable for the job expected.
Councilmember Carter referred to Redmond's mayor and commented on her active
representation of the City of Redmond. She suggested that increasing the Mayor's salary to the
same level as Redmond would make sense. It could be accomplished by increasing the salary in
steps over a three -year period beginning with $60,000, $69,000, and then $78,000. She
emphasized that whatever decision the Council makes, it should be effective for the current term,
City of Tukwila
City Council of Whole Meeting Minutes
Page 13 of 17
June 12, 2000
to ensure others who consider running for the position are aware of the position's salary level.
She suggested the Council's salary should also be reviewed to abolish the differences in salary
between Councilmembers.
Councilmember Linder indicated her initial reaction to the issue was that the Mayor's position
was grossly underpaid. The previous recommendation of $30,000 was based on a part-time
position. Currently, the City needs a full -time Mayor for many of the reasons stated by
Councilmember Carter. Councilmember Linder suggested increasing the salary to $60,000 to
coincide with the responsibilities of the position.
Councilmember Fenton echoed the same sentiments of Councilmember Haggerton concerning
the CAS. He noted, however, he was satisfied with Analyst Lauterbach's explanation concerning
why the statement was included.
Councilmember Fenton thanked Administrator McFarland for his letter, which outlined the
Mayor's duties and expanded responsibilities. The job of Mayor for the City of Tukwila has
changed dramatically over the last several years. Councilmember Fenton supports the
recommendation by Councilmember Carter of $60,000 effective July 1, 2000 and increasing to
$69,000 in January 2001 and $78,000 effective January 1, 2002.
Councilmember Simpson spoke to approximately 11 citizens while on a shopping trip to a local
hardware store. None of them expressed opposition to increasing the Mayor's salary. One
businessman said he compensated his manager at a local McDonald's more than what the Mayor
is paid.
Councilmember Carter corrected her recommendation to coincide with the election date of 2003
and said the increases could be tiered beginning in 2000 through 2003 for a recommended
increase of $78,000 in 2003. Councilmember Simpson suggested a tiered increase of $60,000 in
2000, $66,000 in 2001, $72,000 in 2002, and $78,000 in 2003. A new salary would be
established in 2003 to take effect in 2004.
Council President Duffle expressed concerns. He stressed the importance of accepting the
Committee's recommendation and the need to consider citizen input concerning the level of the
Mayor's salary. He invited citizen comment on the proposal.
Anna Bernhard, 14201 59 South, Tukwila, said there is nothing wrong with a $50,000 salary
for the Mayor of Tukwila. However, it should have been published last year so that more people
would have considered running for Mayor. This is exactly what happened many years ago with a
previous Mayor. The Mayor believed the position was a full -time position, however he accepted
the part-time position. Within several weeks of taking office, he decided the position was full
time. She suggested maintaining the incremental increase as approved previously by the Council
and determine an appropriate salary level for the next election to give more citizens and
opportunity to run for the office.
City of Tukwila
City Council of Whole Meeting Minutes
Page 14 of 17
June 12, 2000
Joanne McManus. 5610 S. 133r Avenue. Tukwila. agreed the salary increase for a full -time
job should be more than $30,000. However, she did not feel the Council should double the
salary to $60,000 without letting the people know first. There will be many unhappy people
because they were not aware in advance of the proposed action. Most people do not have an
option of having their salary doubled by a group of advocates like the Council. She noted that
although there are important responsibilities with the job, the incumbent took the job knowing
what the salary would be. Ms. McManus said she could understand raising the salary to $50,000
but stressed that the citizens would not be happy if the Council doubled the salary to $60,000.
She suggested the Council should seek public input on the Mayor's salary and raised concerns
that many of the residents in Tukwila are senior citizens and how much will seniors have to pay
to raise the salaries of the Mayor and the Council.
Councilmember Linder said she believes $30,000 a year for a part-time mayor position is fair.
However, to say that the Council is doubling the salary is not realistic as the position is now full
time and the salary in the past has not been. She stressed that it is the responsibility of both the
Council and the citizens to elect the right person to the office, know as much about them as
possible, and adequately compensate them.
Councilmember Carter noted the last Mayor included a salary increase within the proposed 2000
budget. The Council was not willing to increase the salary without a discussion and indicated
they would increase the salary in 2000. It was the Council's intent to review the salary.
Administrator McFarland recounted attempts by previous mayors to increase the mayor's salary.
He noted those actions occurred before the City's annexations. After the annexations, the
mayor's office workload changed dramatically. During the last year of Mayor Rants' term, the
job became full time. He assured citizens that the administration was not proposing any tax
increase to support the salary increase. The General Fund can accommodate a salary increase.
Councilmember Haggerton mentioned the office of the Mayor also receives a substantial benefit
package, which has not been mentioned or considered during the discussion. The benefit
package most likely represents another $5,000.
Councilmember Fenton suggested the issue has been discussed thoroughly and suggested
Councilmembers vote on their preference of, 1) supporting the Committee's recommendation, or
2) supporting Councilmember Carter's proposal.
Councilmembers voted on the issue as follows:
Councilmember Hernandez voted to support the Committee's recommendation of increasing
the salary to $50,000.
Councilmember Carter said she was unwilling to under fund the position and recommended
the higher increase of $60,000, with a tiered schedule of $66,000, $72,000, and $78,000.
Council President Duffle supported the Committee's recommendation.
Councilmember Haggerton supported the Committee's recommendation.
Councilmember Linder concurred with Councilmember Carter's recommendation.
City of Tukwila
City Council of Whole Meeting Minutes
Councilmember Fenton concurred with Councilmember Carter's recommendation.
Councilmember Simpson concurred with Councilmember Carter's recommendation.
Councilmember Carter detailed the effective dates of the proposal:
July 1, 2000 60,000
January 1, 2001 66,000
January 1, 2002 $72,000
January 1, 2003 $78,000
The recommendation was forwarded to the regular City Council meeting for adoption.
REPORTS:
a. Mayor the report was deferred to Staff's Report
b. City Council
Page 15 of 17
June 12, 2000
In 2003, the Council will need to review the salary for the term beginning in 2004. The proposed
schedule does not recommend any annual COLA increase.
Councilmember Hernandez attended the Tukwila School Board meeting. Dr. Silver reviewed
NLC's campaign to promote racial justice. The Mayor has submitted a letter of support and
participation by the City. Unfortunately, the process is behind schedule. She requested guidance
from Councilmembers to consider future action on the issue. She suggested authorizing staff to
begin work on the materials, as the Committee would not be meeting until several weeks, which
would delay important deadlines on accomplishments, achieved to date. Councilmember Fenton
concurred with having Council Analyst Lauterbach begin working on the project and including
the project on the agenda of the next Community Affairs and Parks Committee meeting.
Councilmember Carter attended the Transportation Policy Board meeting on June 8. The
meeting included a joint meeting with the Growth Management Policy Board.
On Friday, June 9, she attended the Foster High School graduation. On Wednesday, June 14, she
is attending a Suburban Cities meeting. On June 15, Councilmember Carter is attending the
Transportation Summit sponsored by King County Executive Ron Sims in Bellevue.
Council President Duffie has received several phone calls from citizens and comments from
some Councilmembers concerning protocol during Council meetings. He stressed the
importance of Councilmembers not interrupting or cutting off other speakers until they have
finished with their comments. He noted the importance of following proper meeting procedures
by speaking only when the Council President has recognized the Councilmember to speak.
City of Tukwila
City Council of Whole Meeting Minutes
Councilmember Haggerton attended an ACC meeting on Wednesday, June 7, from 5:30 p.m.
to 7:00 p.m. He will attend a Cascade Water Alliance meeting on June 14 at 4:00 p.m. followed
by a Suburban Cities meeting at 6:00 p.m. On June 15, he will attend a Tukwila Cascade
meeting.
Councilmember Linder had no report.
Councilmember Fenton attended the Home Buyers Workshop on June 8 at Foster Library. He
noted that many mortgage and bank representatives attended the meeting. The workshop assists
first -time homebuyers. Later in the day, he attended the Skate Board Task Force meeting as the
Tukwila representative. There are seven members on the Task Force. The group is starting over
with discussions concerning property near the swimming pool and the west part of the parking
lot at Foster High School.
Councilmember Simpson also attended the Home Buyers Workshop at Foster Library. He was
contacted by the Foster Library Advisory Board and invited to attend the meeting at the Tukwila
Community Center on June 6. The Board was in receipt of a fiberglass statue from the Arts
Commission. However, the statue is too large for placement at the library. He is unsure of
where they will locate the statue. The statue is made of fiberglass, which can cut someone's
hands due to the roughness of the material.
c. Staff
Page 16 of 17
June 12, 2000
Administrator McFarland reported the City would be receiving an E- Government presentation.
He received a call from a company that works with the League of Governments on the prospect
of connecting more citizens to various government services through the Internet. He said staff is
developing a study group and suggested providing the presentation to the appropriate committee
to consider something that is more interactive to enable more citizens to contact the City for
various services.
Administrator McFarland reported on the demolition of the Tukwila Village area. The schedule
is on track for removal of the debris by the end of June. He noted there were some oil tanks and
other hazardous material under house foundations the City did not anticipate, which will increase
costs.
Administrator McFarland reported on the Washington D.C. trip and noted it was very productive.
Mayor Mullet and Mike Ragsdale did an excellent job in representing Tukwila. He reported the
Tukwila delegates effectively conveyed all of the information important to Tukwila, particularly
the Sound Transit issue.
The Washington delegation commented on how impressed they were with the City of Tukwila
and Tukwila's actions in Washington, D.C., and on Tukwila's actions in Olympia. This
resonated very well with the delegation.
City of Tukwila
City Council of Whole Meeting Minutes
Page 17 of 17
June 12, 2000
d. City Attorney
Attorney Noe reported the Hammerling court case is scheduled for Friday, June 16.
MISCELLANEOUS:
Administrator McFarland reported the air conditioning system in Council Chambers would be
upgraded and operational within the next 30 days.
ADJOURNMENT:
(11:05 p.m.) Having no other business to come before the Committee of Whole,
Council President Duffle adjourned the meeting.
le D i'ffi ouncil Fi4saent
Robert H. Baker, CMC, Deputy City Clerk
for Valerie Gow, Recording Secretary
Date Minutes Signed: 15 /00