HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015-02-17 Regular MinutesTukwila City Council Regular Meeting
City Hall Council Chambers February 17, 2015 — 7:00 P.M.
MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING
CALL TO ORDER/PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE /ROLL CALL
Mayor Pro Tempore Kruller called the Regular Meeting of the Tukwila City Council to order at 7:05 p.m.
and led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
Christy O'Flaherty, City Clerk, called the roll of the Council. Present were Councilmembers Joe Duffie,
Dennis Robertson, Allan Ekberg, Verna Seal, Kathy Hougardy, De'Sean Quinn and Kate Kruller.
CITY OFFICIALS
David Cline, City Administrator; Rachel Turpin, City Attorney; Bob Giberson, Public Works Director; Jack
Pace, Community Development Director; Rick Still, Parks and Recreation Director; Kimberly Walden,
Municipal Court Judge; Derek Speck, Economic Development Director; Rachel Bianchi, Communications
and Government Relations Manager; Mike Villa, Police Chief; Martin Grisham, Emergency Manager;
Laurel Humphrey, Council Analyst; Christy O'Flaherty, City Clerk.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
2014 Annual Report. Rachel Bianchi, Communications and Government Relations Manager.
Rachel Bianchi, Communications and Government Relations Manager, presented the City's first annual
report to the City Council and displayed the website address where the report can be viewed online. The
Council Analyst distributed paper copies to the City Council. Ms. Bianchi thanked the staff members from
all City Departments who contributed to the content of the report. She gave high commendations to
Stacia Norris, Graphics Specialist, for the creative design and professionalism of the final report.
The report focused on:
The City's Vision: Tukwila — The City of Opportunity, The Community of Choice
The City's Mission: To provide superior services that support a safe, inviting and healthy environment
for our residents, businesses and guests.
The City's Values:
Caring — We support the diverse community we serve with compassion, empathy, and kindness.
Professional — We hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards and act with integrity and
transparency. We are respectful and courteous with all.
Responsive — We are timely and effective in the delivery of great customer service. We continually strive
to find innovative ways to improve.
Following is a summary from the report narrative:
"The intention for this document is to reflect on the accomplishments of the previous year; provide
an opportunity for residents, business owners and guests to learn more about what the City does
on a daily basis; and show how our activities in 2014 supported the City's adopted Strategic Plan
Goals.
2014 was an important year in the City, particularly in the ongoing effort to improve Tukwila
International Boulevard (TIB). The City took ownership of the three hotels seized in the previous
year's raid, and the Tukwila Village project officially broke ground. Additionally, in 2014 we spent
over $1.3 million in improvements to residential streets, including funding the Cascade View and
Thorndyke Safe Routes to School projects, as well as planning the funding for 42nd Avenue
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February 17, 2015
Page 2 of 7
South Phase III. More information can be found on the City's major initiatives and investments
throughout this annual report.
As your elected officials, we realize that we make decisions on a daily basis that affect the future
of this City and the people who live, work in and visit Tukwila. We take this responsibility
seriously and are honored to represent this great city. We also know that this work cannot be
done without the commitment, involvement and effort of the City's staff, as well as individuals
throughout Tukwila who are focused on enhancing their community. From people who sit on one
of the City's Boards and Commissions, to families who show up to pull blackberries out of the
river bank, to businesses who donate goods and services for our neighbors in need — the
everyday work of people outside of City government has a direct and positive effect on the overall
city. We strongly encourage more residents, businesses and guests to get involved and join
neighbors and friends in making our city a better place.
Tukwila is special, full of people doing extraordinary things every day. At the City, our goal is to
support everyone — residents, businesses and guests — and to provide superior services as we
continue to make Tukwila the city of opportunity and the community of choice."
The report offered success - examples regarding the following Strategic Plan Goals, as well as an
overview of significant accomplishments from each City Department.
#1 A COMMUNITY OF INVITING NEIGHBORHOODS AND VIBRANT BUSINESS DISTRICTS
• Cultivate community ownership of shared spaces.
• Build a broad and collaborative approach to preventing crime and increasing the sense of safety.
• Focus City planning and investments on creating a connected, dynamic urban environment.
• Use City efforts and investments to realize established visions for specific sub - areas.
#2 A SOLID FOUNDATION FOR ALL TUKWILA RESIDENTS
• Partner with organizations that help meet the basic needs of all residents.
• Strive for excellent education, vocational supports, and personal growth opportunities through effective
partnerships and City services.
• Encourage maintenance, improvements, and diversity in the City's housing stock.
#3 A DIVERSE AND REGIONALLY COMPETITIVE ECONOMY
• Embrace the City's economic potential and strengthen the City's role as a regional business and
employment center.
• Strengthen the City's engagement and partnership with the business community.
#4 A HIGH - PERFORMING AND EFFECTIVE ORGANIZATION
• Use Tukwila's Vision, Mission, and Strategic Plan to focus and prioritize City efforts.
• Advance Tukwila's interests through participation in regional partnerships.
• Continue to develop as an organization and support individual growth.
• Ensure City facilities are safe, efficient, and inviting to the public.
• Ensure the long -term fiscal sustainability of the City.
#5 A POSITIVE COMMUNITY IDENTITY AND IMAGE
• Improve the City's ability to build trust and work with all members of the Tukwila community.
• Facilitate connections among Tukwila's communities.
• Promote a positive identity and image of Tukwila.
CITIZEN COMMENTS
Hyotin Whitford, 12217 46th Avenue South, is a long -time resident in Allentown and feels there is a
resident in her neighborhood who is a drug supplier. The run -down home is located between 431d and
44th Avenue on 124th Street just across the street from the Tukwila Community Center. Many people are
exposed to the activities at this house that have people coming and going at all hours. She said the City's
#1 mission is a healthy environment for residents, and she would like to see something done about this
situation.
Councilmember Duffie said he appreciates citizens coming forward to make the Council aware of what is
going on in the community.
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February 17, 2015 Page 3 of 7
David Cline, City Administrator, said the Police Chief is in the audience and can talk with Ms. Whitford
regarding her concerns.
Councilmember Robertson conveyed that Ms. Whitford was at the recent Council Coffee Chat and
relayed her concerns at that time as well. He has additional information to share with the Police Chief on
this issue.
Christie Wells, 12677 East Marginal Way South, said she owns Wells Trucking, also known as CSC Wells
Trucking. She and her husband (who is now deceased) bought the company in 2005. She has been
trying to sell the property for several years, and the Tukwila School District is interested in purchasing the
property for their expanding transportation needs. The current school district transportation area is
already in the vicinity, and it makes perfect sense for them to purchase a truck site for their growing bus
fleet. Due to zoning issues, she was told by City staff she could only sell the business to another trucking
company, and she is seeking guidance from the Council on next steps.
Mayor Pro Tempore Kruller explained this is a zoning issue that involves a legal process and requested
guidance from the City Administrator. David Cline, City Administrator, explained that Ms. Wells would be
put in contact with the appropriate staff members to work through the issues. He directed her to the
Community Development Director and Economic Development Administrator who were in the audience.
Ms. Kruller conveyed condolences to Ms. Wells for the loss of her husband and thanked her for coming to
raise awareness regarding this issue.
Martin Turney, Tukwila School District Assistant Superintendent, explained they are interested in pursuing
the opportunity to house transportation at this location and look forward to learning about next steps.
CONSENT AGENDA
a. Approval of Minutes: 1/26/15 (Special Mtg.); 2/2/15 (Regular Mtg.)
b. Approval of Vouchers #368486- 368573; #150201 - 150203 in the amount of $1,783,170.09
c. Authorize the Mayor to sign a purchase agreement with Pacific Power Products for the purchase of 13
new E -Z -GO TXT golf carts for Foster Golf Links in the amount of $63,557.00 (plus tax).
(Reviewed and forwarded to Consent by Community Affairs and Parks Committee on 219115.)
d. Authorize the transfer of funds from "Professional Services" to "Salaries and Wages" to add 1 full -time
employee to the Department of Community Development Code Enforcement Office to be included as a
2015 -2016 budget amendment (hiring process to begin immediately).
(Forwarded to Consent at the 219115 Committee of the Whole meeting.)
e. Authorize the Mayor to sign Supplemental Agreement No. 6 to contract #13 -036 with KPG, Inc., for
construction engineering services for the East Marginal Way South Storm Pipe Replacement Project in
the amount of $137,575.04.
(Reviewed and forwarded to Consent by Utilities Committee on 2110115.)
MOVED BY DUFFIE, SECONDED BY ROBERTSON THAT THE CONSENT AGENDA BE APPROVED
AS SUBMITTED. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
a. An ordinance authorizing and providing for the acquisition of interests in land for the purpose
of completing the Tukwila Urban Center Pedestrian - Bicycle Bridge Project; providing for
condemnation, appropriation, taking of land and property rights necessary therefor; providing for
payment thereof and directing the initiation of appropriate proceedings in the manner provided by
law and for said condemnation.
MOVED BY EKBERG, SECONDED BY SEAL THAT THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE BE READ BY
TITLE ONLY. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
Christy O'Flaherty, City Clerk, read the proposed ordinance by title only.
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February 17, 2015
Page 4 of 7
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON,
AUTHORIZING AND PROVIDING FOR THE ACQUISITION OF INTERESTS IN LAND FOR THE
PURPOSE OF COMPLETING THE TUKWILA URBAN CENTER PEDESTRIAN - BICYCLE
BRIDGE PROJECT; PROVIDING FOR CONDEMNATION, APPROPRIATION, TAKING OF
LAND AND PROPERTY RIGHTS NECESSARY THEREFOR; PROVIDING FOR PAYMENT
THEREOF AND DIRECTING THE INITIATION OF APPROPRIATE PROCEEDINGS IN THE
MANNER PROVIDED BY LAW AND FOR SAID CONDEMNATION; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
MOVED BY DUFFIE, SECONDED BY SEAL THAT THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE BE ADOPTED AS
READ.*
Councilmember Duffie explained that since the last meeting, he has learned that this action will not affect
the historical house in this area, and he is in support of the ordinance.
*MOTION CARRIED 7 -0, TO ADOPT ORDINANCE NUMBER 2467.
b. A resolution committing to the acceptance of the Chinook Wind habitat site from King County.
MOVED BY SEAL, SECONDED BY QUINN THAT THE PROPOSED RESOLUTION BE READ BY
TITLE ONLY. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
Christy O'Flaherty, City Clerk, read the proposed resolution by title only.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON,
COMMITTING TO THE ACCEPTANCE OF THE CHINOOK WIND HABITAT SITE FROM KING
COUNTY.
MOVED BY SEAL, SECONDED BY HOUGARDY THAT THE PROPOSED RESOLUTION BE
ADOPTED AS READ. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0, TO ADOPT RESOLUTION NUMBER 1856.
c. An ordinance repealing Ordinance Nos. 663 and 1958, as codified in Tukwila Municipal Code
Chapter 2.64, and reenacting Tukwila Municipal Code Chapter 2.64 relating to the sale of City
property.
MOVED BY HOUGARDY, SECONDED BY DUFFIE THAT THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE BE READ
BY TITLE ONLY. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
Christy O'Flaherty, City Clerk, read the proposed ordinance by title only.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON,
REPEALING ORDINANCE NOS. 663 AND 1958, AS CODIFIED IN TUKWILA MUNICIPAL
CODE CHAPTER 2.64, AND REENACTING TUKWILA MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 2.64
RELATED TO THE SALE OF CITY PROPERTY; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND
ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
MOVED BY QUINN, SECONDED BY EKBERG THAT THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE BE ADOPTED
AS READ. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0, TO ADOPT ORDINANCE NUMBER 2468.
d. Authorize the Mayor to sign a contract with Summit Strategies for 2015 -2016 federal lobbying
services in the amount of $153,365 for the two -year contract, plus expenses.
MOVED BY QUINN, SECONDED BY SEAL TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO SIGN A CONTRACT
WITH SUMMIT STRATEGIES FOR 2015 -2016 FEDERAL LOBBYING SERVICES IN THE AMOUNT OF
$153,365 FOR THE TWO -YEAR CONTRACT, PLUS EXPENSES. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
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February 17, 2015 Page 5 of 7
REPORTS
a. Mayor
The Mayor was not in attendance
b. City Council
Councilmember Duffie referenced that February is Black History Month, and he recounted his life growing
up in the south and the discrimination he experienced during that time. He credited Rosa Parks and
Martin Luther King Junior for their actions in changing the course of history for himself and so many
others. He has lived in various places and is glad that Tukwila is where he chose to make his home. He
has been on the Council for over 30 years and credited former Mayor Ed Bauch, former City Clerk Maxine
Anderson, and former City Treasurer Mae Harris for helping him succeed as a Councilmember.
Councilmember Robertson summarized from the Utilities Committee meeting regarding the East Marginal
Way Storm Pipe Replacement project. The project has encountered several delays associated with
unexpected site conditions and conflicts with utilities. While additional expenditures will be required to
deal with all the issues, the amount of $137,575.04 is needed at this time for the additional expenses
associated with unexpected conditions.
Additionally, Councilmember Robertson hosted the Council Coffee Chat this past weekend where multiple
issues were brought forward by 6 citizens who attended. One of the items involves speed bumps or
traffic calming in certain areas of the City. He has seen this done in other cities and wonders why it
cannot be done here. He would like the Transportation Committee to take a look at that issue. Another
item of concern is the conduct of bicyclists on the river trail in the area of 40th Avenue South. The stop
signs are not being heeded, and while the trail walkers have the right -of -way, that is not being respected
by those on bikes. He hopes the Parks and Recreation staff can consider another educational program
or large signs that might help rectify this situation.
The last item that came up at the Coffee Chat is regarding Code Enforcement staff and Police working in
residential neighborhoods. Two individuals from the southern part of the McMicken Heights area near
170th Avenue reported more rental houses with mattresses in the yards, rats, rodents, and nothing being
done. Long term citizens are considering moving out of Tukwila due to these kinds of conditions. There
was not a feeling among the 6 citizens who came to the Coffee Chat that they were willing to wait for
further studies. The citizens were not complaining about staff doing a bad job; there are just not enough
out there to make the necessary changes. He would like either the Finance and Safety Committee or the
Community Affairs and Parks Committee to consider increasing Code Enforcement staff even temporarily
to get through the backlog.
Councilmember Ekberg attended the transit oriented meeting through PSRC (Puget Sound Regional
Council), where the focus was on light rail and its influences in communities. Additionally, while walking
his dog this weekend, a lady approached him to look at a house with garbage in the backyard. The issue
of code enforcement in the City is prevalent, and he was disappointed that the City recently extended
existing resources as opposed to adding staff.
Councilmember Hougardy attended the SCATBd (South County Area Transportation Board) meeting.
One of the presentations was from PSRC and was related to the need to preserve industrial land. A long
range plan is forthcoming and one of the areas that was emphasized was north Tukwila. Ms. Hougardy
pointed out that Streamlined Sales Tax causes challenges for some jurisdictions, such as Tukwila, since
we do not get sales tax from warehouses and still have infrastructure to maintain. The 2nd presentation
involved an overview of the 1 -5 JBLM (Joint Based Lewis McChord) vicinity. This area was a perfect
storm for congestion, partly due to 7 exits in a 10 mile area and the inability to widen the road due to 2
historic stone bridges.
Councilmember Quinn said the Finance and Safety Committee has a robust work plan, and it would be
helpful to have a discussion on code enforcement staff opportunities. Mr. Quinn credited Councilmember
Joe Duffie for being a part of black history in Tukwila, something for which he can be proud and
recognized for in the City.
Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
February 17, 2015 Page 6 of 7
Mayor Pro Tempore Kruller attended the recent SCA (Sound Cities Association) meeting, where Ann
McFarlane, an expert on Parliamentary Procedure, was the speaker. She reported that at the next
Committee of the Whole meeting, the Council will be requested to give input on SCA Public Issues
Committee items to include the Committee to End Homelessness Draft Strategic Plan and Environmental
Health Services regarding Farmers Markets and temporary events. She is hoping that a speaker will be
present to give an update on the items, and a link to the materials will be forthcoming from the Council
Analyst.
Ms. Kruller also reported that she attended a Women in Leadership meeting this past week, and a
number of Tukwila's elected officials will be in Olympia this coming week to visit with legislators with the
intent to influence legislation that benefits Tukwila and the region. Additionally, she reported that there
will be a work session to discuss expectations and formats for a future Town Hall meeting. This will give
everyone an opportunity to provide input on the process. She offered a reminder about the Sound Transit
celebration on February 18, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at the Sounder Station.
Ms. Kruller made a commitment to a citizen to put a stake in the ground for health and will be giving up
soda pop and increasing her exercise, to include a 5k event in April. She invites others to join her in the
effort, and her email is on the website and she would love to hear about successes from others.
c. Staff
David Cline, City Administrator, referenced the City Administrator (CA) Report and 2014 Year -End Report
in the packet and offered to answer any questions.
Councilmember Quinn asked about the Non - Motorized Connectivity Study regarding whether we learned
or identified things that could be incorporated into our Walk and Roll Plan, such as GIS maps. Mr. Cline
said he would request that the staff who worked on the plan provide feedback on that issue.
Mr. Quinn also inquired regarding the Rainbow Trailer Haven meeting and would like information about
the concerns that were expressed by the residents.
Councilmember Robertson referenced the part of the report involving CSC (Community Schools
Collaboration) and asked that a report be given at the Community Affairs and Parks Committee meeting.
Mr. Cline reported that there will be a ribbon cutting at the newly refurbished Sounder Station at 2:00 p.m.
on February 18, 2015. The festivities will be attended by Mayor Haggerton, Senator Patty Murray, and
King County Executive Dow Constantine. Additionally, Mr. Cline referenced information in the City
Administrator Report regarding Motel Purchases /Urban Renewal. This was a major initiative to create a
safe environment on Tukwila International Boulevard. Mr. Cline announced that the Spruce Motel has
been purchased by the City, and he distributed keys to the City Council as a memento of the successes
on the Boulevard.
d. City Attorney
There was no report.
e. Intergovernmental
There was no report.
MISCELLANEOUS
Councilmember Duffie provided a brief summary of items discussed at the Transportation Committee
meeting.
Mayor Pro Tempore Kruller referenced HB1338 which involves marijuana laws, and will reintroduce it to
be allowed within 500 feet of schools and parks. It would be beneficial to comment on this. Also, at the
SCA (Sound Cities Association) meeting, there was discussion regarding home -grow operations in
Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
February 17, 2015
Page 7 of 7
neighborhoods. The City of Issaquah has a public consumption ordinance which involves being able to
object to odiferous smells. She feels this is worth researching.
ADJOURNMENT
8:09 p.m. MOVED BY DUFFIE, SECONDED BY SEAL THAT THE TUKWILA CITY COUNCIL
MEETING BE ADJOURNED. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
Tempore
rl �.
Chris y O'Flahe06, City Clerk
APPROVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL: 3/2/15
AVAILABLE ON CITY WEBSITE: 3/3/15