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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014-04-14 Committee of the Whole MinutesTukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Meeting City Hall Council Chambers April 14, 2014 — 7:00 P.M. MINUTES COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE EXECUTIVE SESSION Start: 6:03 p.m. Council President Quinn announced the purpose of the Executive Session is to discuss: Potential Litigation — Pursuant to RCW 42.30.110(1)(i) It will last no more than 60 minutes, and no decisions will be made during the Executive Session. Attendees: Jim Haggerton, Mayor; David Cline, City Administrator; Shelley Kerslake, City Attorney; Tukwila City Councilmembers Joe Duffie, Dennis Robertson, De'Sean Quinn, Allan Ekberg, Verna Seal; Kathy Hougardy, Kate Kruller. End: 7:03 p.m. CALL TO ORDER/PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Council President Quinn called the Tukwila City Council meeting to order at 7:06 p.m. and led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. OFFICIALS Present were De'Sean Quinn, Council President, Councilmembers Joe Duffie, Dennis Robertson, Allan Ekberg, Verna Seal, Kathy Hougardy, Kate Kruller. CITY OFFICIALS Jim Haggerton, Mayor; David Cline, City Administrator; Bob Giberson, Public Works Director; Frank Iriarte, Public Works Deputy Director; Lavern Peterson, Battalion Chief; Nora Gierloff, Community Development Deputy Director; Lynn Miranda, Senior Planner; Peggy McCarthy, Finance Director; Mary Miotke, Information Technology Director; Laurel Humphrey, Council Analyst; Melissa Hart, Deputy City Clerk. CITIZEN COMMENTS There were no citizen comments. PUBLIC HEARING Consideration of recommendations by the Planning Commission regarding the Southcenter Subarea Plan, implementing Zoning Code regulations and the Southcenter Design Manual. The Southcenter Plan documents the existing conditions in the area and establishes a vision for change in the future. The proposed zoning regulations, when adopted, will replace the existing Tukwila Municipal Code Chapter 18.28 and be used to evaluate development proposals and improvement plans proposed on properties within the Southcenter area (TUC District). The Southcenter Design Manual will provide additional design detail for projects subject to design review. 7:07 p.m. Council President Quinn opened the public hearing. Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes April 14, 2014 Page 2 of 8 Nora Gierloff, Community Development Deputy Director, explained this project has been underway since 2002 when Tukwila received a federal grant for transit oriented development planning in the Southcenter area. After several years of work, the Planning Commission approved the draft plan in 2012. During 2013, staff prepared a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) to analyze the impacts of build -out of the Southcenter area as envisioned under the Plan. Staff utilized a new State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) process set forth in RCW 43.21 C.420 that allows the City to comprehensively consider area -wide, cumulative environmental impacts of the Southcenter Plan project and appropriate mitigation over an extended time horizon, rather than evaluating impacts and mitigation on a project -by- project basis. Future project- specific development proposals that are consistent with the subarea plan, development regulations, and SEIS will not require individual SEPA review and cannot be challenged administratively or judicially pursuant to SEPA. As such, the non - project SEIS provides certainty and predictability for urban development proposals, by streamlining the environmental review process within the subarea and encouraging the goals of SEPA and the State's Growth Management Act. Ms. Gierloff utilized a PowerPoint presentation to update the Council on the history of the project and review proposed legislative updates to include: Southcenter Plan Project: • Brief overview of project • Conduct a Public Hearing on: — Southcenter Plan — New Zoning District 18.28 Regulations — Southcenter Design Manual • Gather comments on draft legislation and plans Project Goals: • Maintain Southcenter's competitiveness; identify improvements to support the Plan • Develop regulations and design guidelines that encourage redevelopment and incentives and achieve the community vision for Southcenter • Meet state and county policies for urban centers • Accommodate 2030 housing and job growth targets Planning History and Process • Phase I: 2000 -2004 Develop the Vision • Phase II: 2005 -2008 Develop the Southcenter Plan Concepts • Phase III: 2008 -2012 Prepare the Zoning Code and Design Guidelines that implement the Plan Southcenter Planning Documents • Community Intent/vision — Vision main theme: make the most of Tukwila's natural amenities, and focus change to the North of the area Create 5 distinct areas or "districts" • Commercial Corridor • Pond • Regional Center • Transit Oriented Development (TOD) District • Workplace • Redevelopment Strategy . • Plan implementation Zoning Code Regulations, Tukwila Municipal Code Chapter 18.28, "Tukwila Urban Center" • Tested regulations by asking developers to voluntarily use some of the proposed new standards • The proposed development regulations are in one chapter of the code • District based zoning regulations • Corridor based regulations • Incorporated more pictures and diagrams within the Code Southcenter Design Manual • Establishes a standard of quality for design • Clearly describes the design goals for each district • Design review process: — In the Regional Center, TOD, Pond and Commercial Corridor districts: • All projects use the Southcenter Design Manual Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes April 14, 2014 Page 3 of 8 • More projects are reviewed administratively • Higher thresholds streamline review process - Workplace district: • Residential projects are treated like other districts • Commercial projects use existing guidelines • More projects are reviewed administratively to streamline the review process Additional information on the plan is available on the City's website: ( http:// www. tukwilawa .qov /dcd /urbancenterplan.html). Council President Quinn called for public comments. Andy Rigel, 1221 Second Avenue, Suite 500, Seattle, stated he is representing Target Corporation. The Tukwila Target location is bordered by four of the proposed design corridors. He distributed written comments for the Council to consider, and he referred to those comments. Target Corporation's main concerns are: 1) The District standards properly support retail reinvestment. They are encouraged by the policies and regulations that are supportive of continued reinvestment in existing businesses and properties. 2) The corridor - specific standards should be revised to provide flexibility for properties with multiple corridor designations. 3) The proposed triggers for corridor - specific standards are unclear, arbitrary, and should be revisited. Mr. Rigel explained Target is concerned with the triggers for implementation of design review and application of corridor - specific standards for remodels under Tukwila Municipal Code (TMC) Section 18.28.030 D.1.b(3). This subsection requires design review for any remodel that exceeds 10% of the building's current value, which Target objects to because it compares the value of the remodel to the value of the building and the threshold percentage is too low. Additionally, if the building is more than 50% "destroyed," then the corridor -based design standards would be applicable. Target is requesting the Council include a specific provision relating to the review process when property owners are dealing with multiple corridor designations. Duncan Greene, 719 Second Avenue, Ste. 1150, Seattle, stated he is present this evening at the request of Brent Carson on behalf of WEA Westfield Southcenter, and he distributed written comments to the Council. He explained Westfield is in support of the April 2014 drafts of the Southcenter Subarea Plan, TMC Chapter 18.28, "Tukwila Urban Center (TUC) District," land use regulations; and the Southcenter Design Manual. He explained Westfield has been involved in the City's development of new regulations and guidance for the long term transformation of the Southcenter area into a true Urban Center. He conveyed Westfield's appreciation for staff engagement, and recognizing the importance of retaining and enhancing Tukwila's strong retail core. Jamie Durkan, 330 SW 43`" Street, Renton, stated he is present to represent the Desimone Trust, a property owner in the TOD district. He explained the trust has a new tenant that is ready to locate into an existing facility (previously Barnaby's) that will conduct special events. Mr. Durkan distributed comments on the draft legislation to include proposed amendments by his clients. 1) Amend the land use table (page 71 of the agenda packet) in the TOD district to allow bars and nightclubs east of the river by adding "P3" to the TOD column. 2) Amend the land use table (page 71 of the agenda packet) to allow some bulk retail east of the river by adding "P3" to the TOD column. 3) Amend the floor plate height from 18 feet and decrease to 12 feet for first floor retail in the TOD area east of the river. 4) Reduce parking requirements for two bedroom apartments from 1.5 to 1 on properties within 1/4 mile of the Transit or Sounder Stations. Additionally, they are requesting a letter documenting that the proposed use of the Barnaby's site as an event center will be permitted under the new zoning regulations Randy Bannacker, 820 Fourth Avenue, Ste. 407, Seattle, stated he is in attendance to represent Sears Corporation. Mr. Bannacker provided written comments to the Council. He explained Sears raised their concerns during the Phase II review, and following the public process, they feel their concerns were heard by staff and addressed. He thanked City staff and the leadership for their work on the draft plans and the issues associated with them. He commented that even as the economy is recovering, many shopping malls remain challenged. The main concern has always been around parking and easier parking options for customers. The support of the City Council and City staff means a great deal to Sears; and coupled with the City's commitment to economic development will be the key to the City's continued success. Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes April 14, 2014 Page 4 of 8 The Council asked clarifying questions of staff to include a process to allow additional time for written comments. 7:51 p.m. Council President Quinn continued the Public Hearing to April 28, 2014 to allow additional time for written comments. SPECIAL ISSUES a. Tukwila Urban Center Districts zoning regulations and design plans. (1) An ordinance implementing changes to Zoning Code regulations relating to the Tukwila Urban Center (TUC) Districts. (2) An ordinance reenacting Tukwila Municipal Code Chapter 18.28 to implement the goals and policies of the Tukwila Comprehensive Plan and Southcenter Subarea Plan. (3) A resolution adopting the Southcenter Design Manual. (4) A resolution adopting the Southcenter Subarea Plan. The City Council conducted a Public Hearing to gather public comments on the proposed ordinances and resolutions that will adopt and implement the City's Southcenter Subarea Plan for the Tukwila Urban Center. The draft ordinances and resolutions were discussed at the City Council work session on April 3, 2014. The Council exchanged comments and asked clarifying questions of staff on the draft legislation to include: When the Councilmembers should provide their comments on the materials to staff; Whether the Council should have an additional work session to discuss questions raised during the public hearing; Clarification on the public hearing statement made about the required design review for any remodel that exceeds 10% of the buildings current value; Why the plans are being updated at this time; Where the staff definition of "destroyed" originated from; What development changes would be required if an established Tukwila business decided to change use (go from one type of business to another); The Commercial Corridor is responsible for 40% of the City's retail sales, yet receives less emphasis in the plan; What is the reasoning behind excluding uses such as animal kennels, data centers, and bars and nightclubs in the Transit Oriented Development district; Include the City's vision for the southern area of the pond district; How to address the comments made relating to the Target property; Removing the open space requirement for the TOD district, due to the many surrounding parks and trails; Suggestion to include a "Lighting Overlay Zone" for Baker Boulevard to make the area more visual and draw visitors to the area; How the proposed Washington Place Development will fit into the vision for the Southcenter area; When the Council will review and suggest code changes; and How staff reached out to the community for involvement in the draft plans and code updates. Ms. Gierloff asked that written comments from the Council be provided to staff by April 28, 2014. She explained all comments received will be entered into a comments matrix that will include who made the comment, the actual comment and comments /questions by staff. Once the matrix is complete, the decision can be made whether the Council would like to work through the items during a Committee of the Whole meeting or a special work session. Ms. Gierloff clarified that a property that proposed to remodel the exterior of a building that exceeds 10% of the building's value would be an administrative review and over 25% would be a review by the Board of Architectural Review. The draft plans retain the current standards, as they have worked well in the past. If an existing Tukwila business changed use, the proposed redevelopment of a site would follow the normal design review process that would include landscape and parking changes, public frontage and the necessary building code issues associated with building improvements resulting from a change in use. She referenced TMC Section 18.28.030 (page 25 -28 of the agenda packet). To address the question of where the definition of "destroyed" was obtained, the current definition is defined by the Building Code and it means "intentionally or by an act of God." She commented that certain uses such as animal kennels, bars and nightclubs were not included in the TOD district because mixed -use developments, such as in the TOD, usually include residential units and those types of use increase noise. Data centers Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes April 14, 2014 Page 5 of 8 are included in the Workplace district, which is the largest district. The Council is able to review and /or add uses to districts and updates to the Zoning Code annually through a housekeeping ordinance. The purpose of requiring mixed -use development to have open space is to ensure high quality housing with amenities to attract residents. Regarding the proposed Washington Place Development, this will be a pioneer development for the area. The development is slightly different, wherein the Council has a Development Agreement that identifies the development standards for the project. Lynn Miranda, Senior Planner, explained Tukwila received a federal grant in 2002 for transit oriented development planning in the Southcenter area. Updating the legislation will meet requirements of the State of Washington. She explained staff can add language into the plan that identifies the vision of the Tukwila Pond district. Ms. Gierloff explained that the current Target location is bordered by two existing corridors and two future corridors. The current configuration for the property only needs to meet the Strander Boulevard corridor regulations because it is more than 185 feet from the "walkable corridor" on 61st Place South. If the property is redeveloped after road connections for the future corridors are completed, then the property would also be subject to those design requirements. Ms. Miranda commented that City staff has been seeking input from stakeholders for the past 10 years on the proposed updates (the planning process is depicted on page 7 of the agenda packet). She reviewed some of the processes used to solicit comments and explained that they also used the Urban Land Institute as a contributor to the outreach. b. A resolution to supplement and, where necessary, modify Resolution No. 1763 relating to the City's participation in the Community Connectivity Consortium. Councilmember Kruller indicated this item was discussed at the Utilities Committee meeting on April 7, 2014. The committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. Frank Iriarte, Deputy Public Works Director, explained on February 21, 2012, through Resolution No. 1763, the Tukwila City Council approved the Community Connectivity Consortium (CCC) Charter and adopted the Interlocal Agreement with other entities in the Puget Sound region for creating and joining the Consortium. The purpose of the Consortium is to acquire, construct, operate, manage and maintain a regional communications network that meets the needs of community institutions, including government agencies, hospitals, schools, and universities. Since the formation of the Consortium, several fiber optic projects have been completed through project agreements. During legal review of the project agreements affecting Tukwila, a few operational and legal matters were raised. In light of the issues, the City's Special Legal Counsel has recommended modifying Resolution No. 1763. Mr. Iriarte conducted a detailed review of the draft resolution as listed on page 225 of the agenda packet. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. c. Discussion of Facilities Plan: Phases 2, 3 and 4 preview and Council interview review. In January 2014, the consultant team presented their findings from Phase 1 of the Facilities Needs Analysis and Feasibility Study, which focused on the City's current and future needs based on population and forecasted employment growth. Data was presented in terms of square footage as it relates to full - time- equivalent staffing for the City. Phase 2 of the Needs Analysis centers on determining how suitable the City's current facilities are in their ability to meet the longer term needs of the City. Each facility is being evaluated in terms of physical condition, ability to meet operational objectives, and square footage as it relates to the Phase I data. An open dialogue with City staff has been established to gain additional perspectives on the day -to -day working environment of the facilities. 8:45 p.m. Council President Quinn called for recess to allow the videographer to change discs. 8:52 p.m. Council President Quinn reconvened the meeting. Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes April 14, 2014 Page 6 of 8 Bob Giberson, Public Works Director, introduced the Facilities Needs Assessment and Feasibility Study consultant team to include: Dave Fergus, Rice Fergus Miller; Dawn Couch, Berk & Associates and Michael Hodgins, Berk & Associates. Mr. Giberson distributed copies of the draft summary of the City Council interviews and a discussion draft of the project timeline. Dawn Couch, Berk & Associates, thanked the Council for the opportunity to provide a brief update on the project. The consultant team utilized a PowerPoint presentation to update the Council on the following: Discussion Topics: • Council Interviews: Did we hear you right? • Overview of Process • Review of Phase 1 — Assessing Needs • Expectations for Phase 2 — Assessing Facilities • Expectations for Phase 3 — Assessing Alternatives • Expectations for Phase 4 — Phasing & Funding Plan • Review Project Work plan Interview Themes: The City Council seeks a plan that: • Fulfills the City's commitment to public safety. • Provides a comprehensive, defensible assessment of needs. • Includes prioritization. • Accommodates current financial realities. • Has buy -in and support, not driven by one or two perspectives. • Is reflective of community needs. • Enables collaboration among internal stakeholders. • Establishes agreement on needs first. • Makes the analysis transparent and conservative. • Uses clear, concise, evidence -based visuals to communicate findings and recommendations. • Cultivates public and partner support. Phase I • Assessing needs: o Identify current use o Estimate current space needs (2014) o Facilities planning target (2040) Phase II • Assessing Facilities o Inventory City facilities o Develop criteria o Assess facilities Phase III • Assessing alternatives o Criteria • Public Safety • How the facilities are being used • Technology • Cost to operate facilities o Alternatives o Assessment o Preferred Development Option Phase IV • Phasing and Funding Plan o Risk Assessment o Optimal Solution o Outreach o Stakeholder Engagement Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes April 14, 2014 Page 7 of 8 o Project Phasing and Funding Phase V • Plan Implementation o Facility Design Ms. Couch explained the team has gathered comments and information they have received. They have been working on assessing the City's facilities including the conditions of the facilities, and whether they are suitable for the current use. She announced that the Steering Committee will be meeting on April 25, 2014 and information will be presented to the group on the results of the facility analysis. Mr. Fergus explained as part of the assessment the locations of the facilities are reviewed based on needs and situations. For example, fire stations need to be in certain locations that allow the established levels -of- service to continue. Funding for the plan will be discussed in Phase IV, after plan implementation has been established. Mr. Hodgins explained there will be discussions during Phase III on the phased implementation of the plan. Funding for implementation of the plan will be based on the priorities established by the City, and funding will be discussed at that time. The final step in the process will be establishing the preferred option for facilities (replace, repair, or remodel), conducting the risk assessment and the funding options based on the needs. The Council exchanged comments and asked clarifying questions of the consultant team. Ms. Couch stated the draft analysis of suitability and condition of facilities will be presented at the April 28, 2014 Committee of the Whole Meeting. Mr. Fergus emphasized the importance of not rushing the process to ensure a great end product. REPORTS a. Mayor Mayor Haggerton commented that there will be four Tukwila firefighters providing assistance at the Oso site. It has been said that the four that have been requested to provide assistance will be instrumental in the draining of the lake that was created by the slide. A complete report will be presented to the Council upon completion of the event. b. City Council Councilmember Duffie hosted the most recent Council Coffee Chat. Councilmember Hougardy attended the recent Container Store Grand Opening event at Westfield Southcenter. Councilmember Kruller attended the April 9, 2014 Washington State Recreation and Parks Association (WRPA) seminar on single gender swim and awards banquet. On April 10, 2014 she attended the Puget Sound Regional Council — Transportation Policy Board meeting and the Container Store Grand Opening event at Westfield Southcenter. c. Staff There was no report. d. City Attorney The City Attorney's presence is not required at Committee of the Whole meetings. Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes April 14, 2014 Page 8 of 8 e. Intergovernmental There was no report ADJOURNMENT 9:56 p.m. COUNCIL PRESIDENT QUINN DECLARED THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING ADJOURNED. erC SeaiVQuinn, Council President L'h-lte,63 Melissa Hart, Deputy City Clerk APPROVED AND SIGNED BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT ON 04/28/2014 AVAILABLE ON THE CITY'S WEBSITE 04/29/2014