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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1977-06-27 Committee of the Whole MinutesJune 27, 1977 COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING 7:00 P.M. TUKWILA CITY COUNCIL i'' M I N U T E S CALL TO ORDER Council President Hill called the Committee of the Whole Meeting to order. COUNCIL MEMBERS BOHRER, GARDNER, HILL, SAUL, TRAYNOR, VAN DUSEN PRESENT City Hall Council Chambers APPROVAL OF MOVED BY TRAYNOR, SECONDED BY SAUL, THAT THE MINUTES OF THE COMMITTEE MINUTES OF THE WHOLE MEETING OF JUNE 13, 1977, BE APPROVED AS PUBLISHED. MOTION CARRIED. DISCUSSION MOVED BY TRAYNOR, SECONDED BY SAUL, THAT THE MINUTES OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING OF JUNE 15, 1977, BE APPROVED AS PUBLISHED. MOTION CARRIED. Proposed Hiking Kjell Stoknes, OCD Director, explained that the City owns right -of -way Trail on Bluff on the hillside to the east. It is too steep to develop a road so Street a plan was developed to put a trail system in this area. Council approved the project and the trail was surveyed. At this point, the neighbors, L.D. and Mabel Popejoy and William R and Patricia A. Hopper, wrote the Council asking them to reconsider their decision to develop this trail based on the slides and settling which occur, the protection of privacy and safety of the personal property along this right -of -way and the disturbing of the wildlife in the area. Council President Hill noted that Council had just walked this right -of -way. Mr. Stoknes stated that the development is very minor so no permits are required, and it is only for daytime use. Councilman Gardner asked about the maintenance. Carl Stixrood, OCD Department, stated it would probably have to be cut back once a year. The path surface will be bark and crushed gravel and developed four feet wide. He further stated that parts of this trail will be too difficult for motor bikes but that there was no type of barrier that would keep them out. Councilman Van Dusen stated that he is in favor of continuing the development but hoped that the trail would meander down the hillside not just be a straight walk. MOVED BY VAN DUSEN, SECONDED BY SAUL, THAT COUNCIL CONCUR WITH THE PARK PLAN AND CONTINUE DEVELOPING THE HIKING TRAIL ON BLUFF STREET. MOTION CARRIED. Ad Hoc Committee Al Pieper, Building Official and Chairman of the Committee, displayed Report on Fire Zones a map designating the three fire zones. The committee recommended that Fire Zone 1 (Southcenter Shopping Center /Doubletree Inn Area) be changed to Fire Zone 2 and the area south of South 180th Street be changed from Fire Zone 2 to Fire Zone 3. Mayor Bauch explained that research shows the majority of the Building Permits for the Southcenter Mall, issued from January through October, 1967, were issued under Fire Zone 2. The Occupancy Permits issued in July, 1968, were also issued under Fire Zone 2. The first Ordinance adopting Fire Zones is No. 678, dated August 2, 1971. There does not seem to be an explanation as to why the area was changed to Fire Zone 1 or why the Permits were issued under Fire Zone 2 prior to this time. Al Pieper explained the City first adopted the Building Code in 1958, that code and each code since reads that, "There shall be an ordinance creating and establishing fire zones." TUKWILA CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING June 27, 1977 Page 2 DISCUSSION Cont. Ad Hoc Committee Report on Fire Zones Cont. M Hubert Crawley, Fire Chief, explained that, as far as he knew, he was responsible for adopting the first fire zone map. He worked with Mr. Zepp, the Building Official at that time. Mr. Norman K. Seethoff, Assistant Construction Administrator, stated that they have a copy of a newspaper print map showing fire zones on which it is clearly shown that Southcenter is Fire Zone 2. He does not know if it was officially adopted, but there is no doubt in his mind that there was a Fire Zone 2. Chief Crawley stated that the problem is not what happened in the past, but the problem is today and what we are doing with the 1976 Building Code. The fire zone map has stood for six years and no one has questioned it until the past few months. Councilman Hill asked the difference between Fire Zone 1 and 2. Chief Crawley stated that it means controlling the burnable material used in a building. It requires fire treated material. Councilman Van Dusen asked if Southcenter is sprinklered? Mr. Seethoff explained that it is recognized as a fully sprinklered building by their insurance people. He explained that concealed, incombustible, blind spaces are not sprinkled and they are not required to be by code. The court area in front of the Bon Marche is not sprinkled, just the perimeter is sprinklered. Councilman Van Dusen asked about hose stations in the Mall. Mr. Seethofl explained that there are no fire hose stations; there is a dry stand pipe system in portions of the Mall. There are fire extinguisher cabinets provided throughout. Mr. Seethoff explained that making the area Fire Zone 1 does not improve the Center, it is an existing facility. Complying with the fire zone would be difficult and expensive. Discussion continued on the difference in Fire Zones 1 and 2 and the construction of Southcenter. The area of disagreement seems to be interpretations of "fully sprinklered building." Mr. Seethoff explained that, in case of fire, 99 percent of the protection is going to come from outside the building. The Fire Department is not going to wait until they get inside to take action. He explained the extra protections (fire stops and separations) built into Southcenter that were not required. If Southcenter is expanded, they will have to comply with Sections 16.02 and 16.03 of the Uniform Building Code, and under Fire Zone 1, Southcenter cannot be expanded without doing certain things that will cost an exorbitant amount of money. He continued to explain these requirements. Councilman Traynor asked if under Fire Zone 2, would Southcenter be considered a "fully sprinklered building Mr. Bill Scates; Fred S. James and Company, Insurance Broker; stated that it is obvious Council is here to protect the public and offered an explanation as to what extent the Center is sprinklered. Mr. Richard J. Kobylk, Fred S. James and Company, explained that the systems in Southcenter are all hydraulically designed to protect the merchants, adequate hydrants are provided, water supply is excellent, City fire protection is very good (Class 4), the concealed space is all incombustible, and there is a water flow alarm system tied into the Fire Station. These all aid the Fire Department along with the aid of the sprinkler system. Chief Crawley stated that generally what you can see is sprinklered, what you cannot see is not, and Mr. Kobylk agreed. TUKWILA CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING June 27, 1977 Page 3 DISCUSSION Cont. Ad Hoc Committee Report on Fire Zones Cont. RECESS 8:30 p.m. 8:45 p.m. City Hall Plans Councilman Van Dusen asked if there is some way it can be changed to Fire Zone 2 but make sure that all future construction is adequately sprinkled? Al Pieper stated that he routes all plans to the Fire Department for approval before Building Permits are issued. Kjell Stoknes stated that Chief Crawley's interpretation of a fully sprinklered building is the crux, but it is his interpretation. As long as the interpretation stands that Southcenter is not a fully sprinklered building, they cannot add on. The only way they can build is to change to Fire Zone 2 and interpret that it is a fully sprinklered building. Steve Hall stated that there is a policy that defines the area of control of buildings and this is the Fire Department's. MOVED BY VAN DUSEN, SECONDED BY SAUL, THAT COUNCIL ELIMINATE FIRE ZONE 1, PUT FIRE ZONE 2 IN ITS PLACE AND CHANGE THE AREA SOUTH OF SOUTH 180TH STREET FROM FIRE ZONE 2 TO FIRE ZONE 3. Councilman Bohrer stated that he would like to see a review of the types of fires that have occurred at Southcenter. They might be an indication of future problems. Also, if it allows two actions for Southcenter to expand as Mr. Stoknes explained, they should go hand in hand. Mr. Stoknes stated that he does not believe Council has the right to change Chief Crawley's interpretation. The proper thing would be for Allied Stores to appeal the interpretation to the Board of Appeals. MOTION CARRIED. Council President Hill stated that an Ordinance changing the fire zones should be prepared for the next Regular Council Meeting. Council President Hill declared a ten minute recess. Tom Emrich, Mithun and Associates, stated that the City has had the plans for City Hall for one week for review. They are complete and ready to go out for bid. They have come to answer any questions prior to the call for bids. Mayor Bauch stated that he has reviewed the plans and recommended that Council call for bids to be received on July 21, 1977. Councilman Van Dusen asked if there was anything significant suggested by the Council that had to be left out? Mr. Emrich stated that he could not recall anything. Steve Hall stated that he reviewed the plans and specs and they appear pretty clean -cut. Councilman Van Dusen asked about the audio visual and acoustics system in the Council Chambers. Mr. Emrich stated that it is basically as discussed, but the housing of it has been left out of the contract as it is a furniture item. Intercom systems were discussed. The only one provided is in the Police Department. Councilman Traynor asked why there is a wall enclosing the Police Clerks? Mr. Emrich stated that they have endeavored to meet the requirements of the proposed State Jail Act by using bullet glass and separation walls for the security employees. The wall TUKWILA CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING June 27, 1977 Page 4 DISCUSSION Cont. City Hall Plans referred to by Councilman Traynor is for fire separation because the bullet -proof glass is not a recognized material for fire separation. Proposed Landscape Plan for City Hall Councilman Saul asked about the window blinds and was told the specs call for blinds made of narrow metal slats. Councilman Hill asked about carpets and was told that they have been left out of the contract. Mayor Bauch reminded Council there is $100,000 reserved in the budget for landscaping and $100,000 for furniture. Councilman Bohrer asked about the two options for housing the mechanical and electrical systems that were discussed previously. Mr. Emrich stated it had been resolved by putting everything in the space between the floor and ceiling and dropping down wherever necessary. Councilman Bohrer asked about the smoke detection system and Mn Emrich stated that there are specific areas in the Police Department required to have smoke detector systems. The contract will include these areas. There is an alternate bid which would put a smoke detector system throughout the whole building. MOVED BY VAN DUSEN, SECONDED BY SAUL, THAT COUNCIL APPROVE THE CALL FOR BIDS FOR CITY HALL TO BE RECEIVED ON JULY 21, 1977. Councilman Pesicka arrived at this time. MOTION CARRIED. Carl Stixrood presented his proposed preliminary concept drawings of the landscaping for City Hall. He explained the design phase flow chart setting three dates for Council review before bid documents are developed. The preliminary plan showed the lower area on the south a developed buffer area with the basement of the existing building being converted into a greenhouse. There is a sidewalk along South center Boulevard and 62nd Avenue South with a buffer of trees along the streets. A pedestrian entrance is proposed toward the southwest corner, a walk under a trellis toward the greenhouse then a stairway to the lower parking lot of city hall. The trellis would be covered by some type of vine. The three existing apple trees would be left with more trees added. The existing pond and shrubs on the southeast corner will be maintained. An identification graphics is suggested for the southwest corner. The north end would be planted with a ground cover because of the slope and a buffer of trees. Mr. Stixrood explained the total proposal in detail. He suggested reserving a space in the entrance plaza for a sculpture. Councilman Van Dusen stated it looked like a good job. Councilman Bohrer stated that this is a more formal arrangement of landscaping and wondered if thought had been given to a more informal design. He also stated that the idea of a greenhouse is attractive but questioned the maintenance. He suggested a gazebo instead. Councilman Saul stated that he did not want to hire a full -time person just to maintain the garden. Steve Hall estimated it would take one man, full -time, four months of the year. He suggested that an irrigation system is man -hour saving and gives a better distribution of water. iUKWILA CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING lune 27, 1977 'age 5 )ISCUSSION Cont. 'roposed Landscape flan for City Hall ;ont. Councilmanic Bonds for City Hall Councilman Bohrer suggested that Carl Stixrood revise the plan and present alternatives that are less formal to Council on July 11, 1977. Council agreed that this item be placed on the agenda for the Committee of the Whole Meeting of July 11, 1977. Ron McLaughlin, Foster and Marshall, Inc., presented their proposal to serve as financial consultant to assist the City in the marketing of the $1,250,000 bond issue (or such other amount as may be decided upon) proposed for construction of a new City Hall. They propose to serve as financial advisors to the City and are willing to undertake and perform services which will include, but are not limited to, the following: 1. Assistance to the Mayor, City Council, City Treasurer, staff, attorneys, and others with regard to the review of bond issue proposi- tion to insure that bonds can be issued; and, provide accurate informa- tion concerning financing plans, required tax levies and other information as requested. 2. Assume responsibility for obtaining the authorized funds at the lowest possible interest cost to the City, which will include: a. Selection of bond sale date. b. Provide bond attorney necessary financial information to be included in the Bond Resolution and Notice of Bond Sale. c. Transmission of information to bond rating services should the City find it desirable. d. Two weeks prior to the bond sale date, distribute a professionally printed bond offering prospectus. e. Attend bond sale, review bonds received and make recommendation to the City. f. Provide assistance in printing of bonds and assist with arrangements for bond delivery. The fees for these services will be $2,100. Any fee for rating services prospectus printing, bond printing, attorney's fees and publication of Notice of Sale will be paid by the City. Mr. McLaughlin explained the bond offering prospectus. It will spell out, to potential purchasers of the bonds, the story of Tukwila, present and future. He stated that the municipal bonds should be presented to a bond rating service for a rating. He pointed out that they have compiled guidelines on thorough disclosure statements to cover everything required by the national council. If the City were to go to market right now, they could probably expect 54 percent. This is the lowest the bond market has been in the last several years. It would probably be mid August before the bond sale date if Council accepted the proposal now. Cash would be available 30 days after. Councilman Traynor asked how do we know how much money we are going to need? Mayor Bauch stated that the minimum cost of City Hall is now up to $1,350,000; we'll know, for sure, on July 21. All you can do tonight is make the decision to come back with a Resolution of authorization to sign the agreement so they can start proceeding. The additional fees were discussed, and it was agreed they would run between $10,000 and $12,000. MOVED BY VAN DUSEN, SECONDED BY SAUL, THAT THIS ITEM BE REFERRED TO THE REGULAR MEETING OF JULY 5, 1977. MOTION CARRIED. TUKWILA CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING June 27, 1977 Page 6 DISCUSSION Cont. National Flood Steve Hall asked Council permission to have a speaker from HUD come Insurance Program out and explain the updated requirements of the flood insurance program. Agreement with Steve Hall explained that, in the six -year street program, Southcenter Washington State Boulevard, from 65th Avenue South to Interurban Avenue South, is the Highway Department second phase. This resolution is authorizing the Mayor to sign an for Rehabilitation of agreement for funds for approximately $107,000 if they become Southcenter Boulevard available. from 65th to Interurban MOVED BY VAN DUSEN, SECONDED BY SAUL, THAT THIS RESOLUTION BE REFERRED TO THE REGULAR MEETING OF JULY 5, 1977. MOTION CARRIED. Ordinance Establishing Steve Hall explained that a Public Hearing was held but an ordinance Maule Avenue as a was never passed on establishing Maule Avenue as a one -way street. One -Way Street Resolution directing the color of the Frank Zepp Bridge Abatement Funds; Letter from Al Pieper, Building Official Sale of Water to Water District #38 Mayor's Report MOVED BY SAUL, SECONDED BY MRS. PESICKA, THAT A SPEAKER FROM HUD BE INVITED TO SPEAK AT THE REGULAR MEETING OF JULY 5, 1977. MOTION CARRIED. MOVED BY VAN DUSEN, SECONDED BY MRS. PESICKA, THAT THIS ORDINANCE BE REFERRED TO THE REGULAR MEETING OF JULY 5, 1977. MOTION CARRIED. MOVED BY VAN DUSEN, SECONDED BY MRS. PESICKA, THAT THIS RESOLUTION BE REFERRED TO THE REGULAR MEETING OF JULY 5, 1977 MOTION CARRIED. Al Pieper explained that the time limit for filing an appeal relative to the dangerous building code for the public nuisance at 14424 56th Avenue South will expire July 8, 1977. He asked for authority to spend the necessary funds to abate the building. Bids will be obtained for this project; when complete, a lien will be placed on the property for this amount. Mayor Bauch explained that Council cannot approve this until the appeal period is up. You will need a resolution from Council directing the Building Official to abate the public nuisance and an ordinance to appropriate sufficient funds to cover the cost of demolition work. Councilman Hill suggested having the resolution be drawn and leave the date blank or having it read after the appeal period expires. We can put it on the agenda and have the City Attorney approve it next week. MOVED BY VAN DUSEN, SECONDED BY SAUL, THAT A RESOLUTION BE PREPARED FOR THE AGENDA OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF JULY 5, 1977. MOTION CARRIED. Steve Hall requested that staff be allowed to make a presentation to Council on rates for selling water to Water District No. 38 with a resolution authorizing the Mayor to sign an agreement for the sale of water. MOVED BY SAUL, SECONDED BY MRS. PESICKA, THAT THIS ITEM BE PLACED ON THE AGENDA FOR THE REGULAR MEETING OF JULY 5, 1977. MOTION CARRIED. Mayor Bauch stated that he was going to write a letter to the Governor concerning her refusal to cross a picket line to appear at the Association of Washington Cities' Convention at Ocean Shores and asked Council if they wanted to be included. The five Council members that attended this convention agreed. Mayor Bauch announced that the agreement with King County for the grant for the Thorndyke Senior Center would be signed at 3:40, Wednesday. He invited Council to attend. TUKWILA CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING June 27, 1977 Page 7 MAYOR'S REPORT Cont. ADJOURNMENT N 70 Mayor Bauch announced the dedication of the P -17 Pump Station at 4:15, Wednesday. He invited Council to attend. Mayor Bauch read a letter written to Chief John Sheets, Police Depart- ment, from the Southcenter Merchants Association complimenting the Police Department on the outstanding professionalism they use in carrying out their duties. They enclosed a plaque which was displayed to Council and audience. 10:45 P.M. MOVED BY SAUL, SECONDED BY VAN DUSEN, THAT THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING BE ADJOURNED. MOTION CARRIED. Max Anderson, Recording Secretary Pro Tem 9 Y