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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015-08-10 Committee of the Whole MinutesTukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Meeting City Hall Council Chambers August 10, 2015 — 7:00 P.M. MINUTES COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE CALL TO ORDER /PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Council President Kruller called the Tukwila City Council meeting to order at 7:06 p.m. Councilmember Quinn led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. OFFICIALS Present were Kate Kruller, Council President; Councilmembers Joe Duff ie, Dennis Robertson, Allan Ekberg, Verna Seal, Kathy Hougardy, De'Sean Quinn. CITY OFFICIALS Jim Haggerton, Mayor; David Cline, City Administrator; Bob Giberson, Public Works Director; Robin Tischmak, City Engineer; Grant Griffin, Public Works Program Manager; Doug Johnson, Police Sergeant; Rachel Bianchi, Communications and Government Relations Manager; Derek Speck, Economic Development Administrator; Brandon Miles, Economic Development Liaison; Jack Pace, Community Development Director; Nora Gierloff, Community Development Deputy Director; Lynn Miranda, Senior Planner; Rebecca Fox, Senior Planner; Laura Benjamin, Assistant Planner; Joyce Trantina, Project Development Manager; Evie Boykan, Human Services Manager; Mary Miotke, Technology Services Director; Melissa Hart, Deputy City Clerk. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS a. Results from McMicken neighborhood canvassing. Rachel Bianchi, Communications and Government Relations Manager, thanked City staff for participating in the neighborhood canvassing. Ms. Bianchi utilized a PowerPoint to update the Council on the results. Highlights of the presentation included: OVERVIEW • Door to door survey of every household in the McMicken neighborhood • Conducted over 7 weeks • 485 total addresses • 80% of the residents completed the survey or were visited more than once • Flyers left when no one home • Option for residents to complete an online survey • Total contacts 355 • Total surveys complete 175 • 74% contact rate • 36% response rate • 37% refusal rate GENERAL FINDINGS • Average residency: 19 years • 30% of residents have lived in McMicken for 25+ years • 90% of residents own their homes • Average stay of renters is over 6 years • 70% of residents indicated they intend to live in the neighborhood in 5 years • 59% of residents are 50 years or older • 16 languages spoken • 81% English speakers • Average number of residents in the home: 3 Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes August 10, 2015 Page 2 of 13 • Generally high level of satisfaction • Issues that rose to the top — speeding, infrastructure and look of the neighborhood • Potentially less feeling of connectedness to Tukwila: o Highline School District o Proximity to SeaTac • Respondents significantly older than city -wide • 26% had kids in the home, which is higher than city -wide GENERAL AGREEMENT • 88% of residents indicate it is easy to come and go in the neighborhood • 76% of residents say it is easy to get to bus or light rail; 42% of households use public transportation • 89% of residents have good access to amenities — shopping, leisure activities • 80% of residents believe there is good access to parks and trails • 71% of residents agree there is adequate street lighting ISSUES OF CONCERN Residents were asked how often they are concerned about vehicular traffic (speeding) and 24% identified speeding on /near arterials in the following areas: • South 160th Street • South 164th Street • 42nd Avenue South • 51St Avenue South Residents were asked about the neighborhood's infrastructure. 24% of those that responded identified the following as the top priorities: • Sidewalks • Specific street repair and maintenance issues • Localized stormwater issues Residents were asked about the appearance of the neighborhood and 20% of respondents identified the following as areas of concern: • Specific homes • General code enforcement issues • Lack of pride in homes • Junk cars • Potential drug operations OTHER USEFUL INFORMATION • 66% of residents indicate there is plenty of on- street parking • 52% feel a sense of community; most residents appear to know immediate neighbors but not many others • Some concern about safety at Crystal Springs and Crestview Parks, particularly at night • Noise (18 %) and air quality (12 %) were noted as a problem for some — largely airport and freeway - related. • While 59% of the respondents feel safe in the neighborhood, there is a generalized concern about crime • Overwhelmingly positive response about the Tukwila Police Department SUGGESTIONS FOR IMPROVING THE MCMICKEN NEIGHBORHOOD • Deal with trash /litter; address neighbors that are burning garbage • Enhance code enforcement • Construct sidewalks (but some do not want them) • More speeding enforcement • Address potential grow houses • Improve neighborhood safety - including addressing stolen mail • Address lot and home size issues • Increased patrol of City parks • Upkeep on Trail No. 11 Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes August 10, 2015 Page 3 of 13 Ms. Bianchi thanked the McMicken neighbors who took the time to answer the questions by the canvassing group and those who completed the surveys. There were a couple of specific comments about issues voiced during the canvassing, and City staff have started working with the residents on addressing those issues. The Councilmembers exchanged comments and asked clarifying questions of staff on the statistics included in the presentation and the next steps in the process. Ms. Bianchi stated they are committed to completing two neighborhood canvassing events per year, and the next group selected for canvassing will be a multi - family group. Staff is in the planning stages for canvassing of multi - family complexes, and she will update the Council in the near future on that progress. b. Update on BNSF Access Study. Bob Giberson, Public Works Director, thanked the Council for the opportunity to provide an update on the BNSF Access Study. He stated the City Council approved the contract for the BNSF Access Study in March 2015, and the consultants have been utilizing the previous studies to assist with the current project. Mr. Giberson introduced Dennis Sandstrom with Envirolssues, part of the Study Consultant Team. Mr. Sandstrom will provide the Council with an overview of the project and a map of the proposed access routes that are being analyzed as part of the project. Mr. Sandstrom explained that Envirolssues is a public outreach and engagement consulting firm, hired along with David Evans and Associates to work with the City and BNSF on the alternative access study. He utilized a PowerPoint presentation to update the Council, and highlights of the presentation included: OVERVIEW • Partnering with BNSF • Currently, trucks travel through Allentown, near the Tukwila Community Center • They are studying alternative routes to BNSF's South Seattle Intermodal Facility • The study is essential for seeking future funding from State and Federal sources DEVELOPING THE REPORT The team is building upon previous studies for the project and they have created screening criteria that includes: • Cost • Right -of -way • Environmental impacts • Traffic impacts • Effect on railroad operations Five routes are being studied - including a "no- action alternative" (maintaining the existing route) Four alternative access routes have been identified ACCESS ALTERNATIVES Southern Routes • South 124th Street • Gateway Drive • 48th Avenue South Northern Routes • South 112th Street • Airport Way South KEEPING THE COMMUNITY INFORMED • Sharing information about the project: o They are working with City staff on outreach to Allentown residents and other nearby neighborhoods; as well as businesses, property owners and the freight community o Other partner agencies Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes August 10, 2015 Page 4 of 13 • Wide variety of communication tools are being used: o Fact sheets o Stakeholder interviews o Community events o Tuk TV TIMELINE Summer 2015 • Engage and inform the public • Develop a selection criteria for access study alternatives • Brief the City Council and public on project activities Fall 2015: • Finalize draft access study report • Present draft report to and receive input from the City Council Early 2016: • City Council to approve resolution choosing preferred alternative MOVING FORWARD Depending on the recommendations, further project phases may include: • Environmental studies • Identify funding sources • Design • Construction The Councilmembers exchanged comments and asked clarifying questions of staff and Mr. Sandstrom on the presentation. Mr. Giberson stated staff will return to Council in the fall with the draft screening criteria for review. CITIZEN COMMENTS Pam Carter, 4115 South 139th Street, stated that during the Touch -A -Truck event, many of the people who attended were not residents of Tukwila. She feels the event has now become a regional event and not just a Tukwila community event. She would like to see more Tukwila community events like the Tukwila Days' Community Festival and others that help to rebuild the community atmosphere again. Councilmember Robertson said that Ms. Carter's comment was very intriguing, and he would like to see if the Parks and Recreation Department has a response on this issue. Ms. Carter stated that she raised this issue during one of the Comprehensive Plan Amendment meetings last year. There are some great programs in the City, but building the community element seems to be missing. She feels that more community based events such as Tukwila Days would offer a way for non- profits and schools to do more outreach. As Chair of the Community Affairs and Parks Committee, Councilmember Seal stated she would work with the Council Analyst to have this item discussed at a future meeting. Brooke Alford, 4724 South 122 "d Street, commented that the recent park event in Duwamish was lovely and she would like to see more of those types of events. She also commented on the BNSF Study and felt that the one element that was missing during the presentation was there was no time for public comments on the design of the plan. She felt public comments would have been appropriate. Council President Kruller stated that having a citizen comment section should be looked at for the next time the BNSF Study is brought to Council. David Cline, City Administrator, will speak with the consultants on this project to ensure there is two -way communication going forward. Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes August 10, 2015 Page 5 of 13 Katrina Dohn, 14442 46th Avenue South, thanked the City for their encouragement and support of the National Night Out Against Crime events. During the event in her neighborhood, a concern was raised about an individual who seems to live in the trees by the freeway on -ramp to Highway 518. People are very concerned about this person and how to approach him, and how to offer him assistance on different living conditions. There are other areas in the community with similar situations, and she encouraged the City to investigate the best way to resolve this situation. Mr. Cline thanked Ms. Dohn for her comments and will pass along her concerns, and Ms. Dohn will receive a follow -up communication relating to this issue. Hamdi Abdvile, 2002 NE 18th Place, Renton, shared that in her community the average household size is six to seven members. Therefore, decisions the City makes based on average households of two to three members does not serve her community. She wanted to bring the discrepancy to the attention of Council. In addition, she wanted to give her thanks to the City for their efforts in making the Southcenter area beautiful. John McCarthy, 14227 56th Avenue South, is concerned about safety for children going to and from school on the South 1441h Street bridge. He contacted the Washington State Department of Transportation ( WSDOT) about this issue. Mr. McCarthy stated there was some confusion at WSDOT about the bridge, and after a lengthy conversation, he was assured that someone from WSDOT would be contacting the City about this issue. He asked that he be updated on the status of the issue, if the City has been contacted yet. Mr. Cline stated he would follow up with Bob Giberson, Public Works Director, to see if contact has been made and will bring that information back to Mr. McCarthy and the Council. Pat Larson, 14244 55th Avenue South, stated she is very concerned about the health and safety of the children in her school. She is the principal of Foster High School and during her first year, there was a young student in the nurse's office who was bleeding from the top of his nose from a rat bite he received while sleeping in his home. Additionally, it is necessary to have cockroach checking stations at the entrances of the school to avoid an infestation that could be brought from student homes. The area in question is the west and east side of Tukwila International Boulevard within two blocks, and it may not be an actual neighborhood. This area is considered, by many, as the slums of Tukwila. There is a vital need for better code enforcement to bring the apartment buildings in this area up to code, making them insect and rodent free. Councilmember Robertson stated that Tukwila has a rental housing inspection program, but the difficulty is that there could be a long break in- between rental unit inspections unless new complaints are received. He asked Ms. Larson if she had any ideas about how to make it less fearful for tenants to level complaints, so that the issues can be addressed and rectified. Ms. Larson stated that the school is a trusted place, and the parents of these children do not trust government. She stated that if the school was to register these complaints, it would harm the trust factor. There needs to be a forum for these folks to feel safe to air safety and health concerns and to have these issues corrected without fear of retaliation against them by landlords. Councilmember Quinn thanked Ms. Larson for bringing this to the Council's attention. Keeping communication open is an important part of finding the solution to the problem. As Councilmember Robertson said earlier, the rental housing inspection program is a great tool, but if complaints are not registered, there are no red flags for them to go out and inspect. Mr. Cline stated that there are policies and procedures in place to deal with these issues. Code Enforcement does work on complaints as they come in, and this has helped clean up many of these types of issues, but there is still a ways to go. Councilmember Seal said that the beauty of having community events is so that issues like this are talked about and solutions can be found. It helps the community share information and helps build trust with Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes August 10, 2015 Page 6 of 13 citizens. People new to the community need to know it is safe here, and the landlords need to understand that these issues will not be tolerated. Ms. Larson feels that an important piece of this is that people need to know their rights, and they need to know that the government and the community are listening. Actions speak louder than words, and that is the way trust is built with people who are living in fear and unsafe conditions. Councilmember Robertson suggested the Council review the Rental Housing Inspection Program to see if there is a way to address these concerns. Councilmember Seal stated that the Community Affairs and Parks Committee will be reviewing the Healthy Housing policies in the near future. Those policies will be used to address some of the issues in conjunction with the Rental Housing Inspection Program. These policies will be another tool for Code Enforcement to use. Councilmember Ekberg suggested that the next canvassing program include the apartments Ms. Larson has outlined. Then collectively, as a community, go out and perform the survey and come up with answers. Council President Kruller stated that the infestation and rodent problems are not just in the areas outlined by Ms. Larson, but in other areas that would not be suspected. Code Enforcement is doing the best they can so she is hopeful the policies will assist the citizens and put landlords on notice. She feels there should be faster turnaround times on investigating and addressing these types of issues. Tenants should not fear retaliation for reporting health and safety violations and pressure should be put on landlords to clean up the units or face penalties. David Puki, 3748 South 152nd Street, stated that he lives near Tukwila International Boulevard where these medium and high density areas are located. In his observation if tenants complain, they usually get evicted. The eviction process puts a black mark on their credit history, which makes finding residency even more difficult for them. This is another reason why these things are not reported. PUBLIC HEARING a. An ordinance amending various ordinances relating to land use and zoning, as codified at Tukwila Municipal Code Sections 18.06.552, 18.06.553, 18.06.554, 18.06.556, 18.41.020 and 18.50.210; adopting zoning restrictions on the production, processing, and retailing of marijuana uses; describing the land use impacts triggering such restrictions; adding the Tukwila South Overlay as a permitted zone for uses; establishing procedures for enforcement of violations including abatement of marijuana nuisances; and repealing Ordinance No. 2475, which established the moratorium on medical cannabis collective gardens or dispensaries. 8:28 p.m. Council President Kruller opened the Public Hearing. Nora Gierloff, Community Development Deputy Director, stated the draft ordinance before the Council would repeal the City's current moratorium on medical marijuana and replace the moratorium with new zoning standards. Recently, two state laws took effect that provide the clarity and consistency that had been missing in the medical marijuana regulations. Some of the significant changes in the new regulations include: • Phasing out collective gardens for growth of medical marijuana. • Defining patients qualifying for use of medical marijuana as having terminal or debilitating medical conditions before becoming eligible for medical marijuana. • Developing a voluntary database for qualifying patients and allowing them to grow four marijuana plants in their own homes. • Authorizing the creation of medical marijuana cooperatives of up to four medical marijuana patients to grow the number of plants each is authorized in one of their homes for use of the group. Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes August 10, 2015 Page 7 of 13 • Prohibiting medical marijuana plants from being grown in a way that allows them to be seen or smelled from neighboring properties. • Allowing cities to prohibit marijuana production or processing from primarily residential areas. Staff worked with the Community Affairs and Parks Committee and the Planning Commission on the draft ordinance (pages 7 through 11 of the agenda packet). The draft ordinance will ban the growth of medical marijuana by groups of patients in cooperatives and collectives; it would permit medical marijuana businesses under the same terms as recreational marijuana; it adds specific civil penalties for violations of the City's regulations; and, includes housekeeping changes to update and align the City's definitions to the definitions used by the State. Ms. Gierloff stated there is one additional housekeeping item. The first "Whereas" statement (as listed on page 7 of the agenda) should have been stricken from the ordinance, and that will be corrected for the next meeting. Council President Kruller called for public comments Kathleen Wilson, 4803 South 162 "d Street, thanked the Council for the great work associated with the proposed ordinance. She has conducted some research and has not found any other jurisdiction that has such a comprehensive ordinance addressing marijuana issues. Pam Carter, 4115 South 139th Street, voiced her support for the proposed legislation. The Councilmembers asked clarifying questions of staff on the draft ordinance. 8:40 p.m. Council President Kruller closed the Public Hearing. b. Review and update of three of Tukwila's Comprehensive Plan Elements: Tukwila International Boulevard District, Housing, and Residential Neighborhoods; and the Introduction, Vision, Glossary, and Land Use Map Legend of the Comprehensive Plan. This periodic review is required by the Washington State Growth Management Act. 8:40 p.m. Council President Kruller opened the Public Hearing. Nora Gierloff, Community Development Deputy Director, explained the purpose of the public hearing this evening is to receive comments from the community on the proposed 2015 updates to the Comprehensive Plan. She asked the Council to identify additional sections (if any) for review at the August 24, 2015 Committee of the Whole Meeting. Ms. Gierloff utilized a PowerPoint presentation to update the Council and audience members on the process to date and the proposed updates. WHAT IS PLANNING ALL ABOUT ANYWAY? Planning is the process of bringing the community together to think about the future. Together, the community decides on a vision and then identifies what to change, invest in, or keep the same in order to work towards the predetermined vision. WHAT IS THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN? The Comprehensive Plan is a vision for a long range future that creates lasting value for the Tukwila community. Washington State law requires all fast growing cities and counties develop a Comprehensive Plan. It has been 20 years since the City's Comprehensive Plan was first adopted and it has been updated every few years since its adoption. WHAT DOES THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN DO? The Plan guides the way the City spends money and which laws and rules are adopted by the City. The policies in the City's Comp Plan reflect State, Regional and King County policies and priorities. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ELEMENTS • City Neighborhoods • Housing Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes August 10, 2015 • Capital Facilities • Transportation • Utilities • Natural Areas, Shoreline and Parks • Economic Development UPDATING THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN • Tukwila's Comprehensive Plan was adopted in 1995 • 2004 was the last big update to the plan • The current update will be completed in 2015 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION • Public Meetings and Hearings • Community Visioning • Community Conversations • Workshops and surveys • Open house meetings Page 8 of 13 TUKWILA INTERNATIONAL BOULEVARD (TIB) DISTRICT: How to continue making the area safer and a more attractive neighborhood with new businesses and housing. Classifying the Tukwila International Boulevard District as a "neighborhood" rather than a "corridor" and making the TIB District a destination are long -term priorities for the City of Tukwila. Draft policies in the TIB District Element propose redevelopment in concentrated centers of development at South 144th Street and near the light rail station at South 154th Street. Policies also call for evolving TIB into a `main street' or spine of the neighborhood, with slower vehicular speeds, on- street parking, and more pedestrian crosswalks. Improved pedestrian connections, parks and gathering areas are proposed throughout the District for current and future residents and visitors. HOUSING: This element measures how affordable Tukwila's housing is to the residents and encourages different types of high quality housing. RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS: Strengthen neighborhoods with sidewalks and trails; protect them from noise; make sure new buildings fit in with the neighborhood. ADDITIONAL REVISIONS The City is also updating additional administrative portions of the Comprehensive Plan to ensure that the plan is current, reflects changes over the past 10 years and anticipates changes in the future. Introduction: Explains what is in a Comprehensive Plan, why it is important, how it was developed and how the Plan will be implemented. Vision: Describes the City's values expressed in the Plan. Glossary: A list of terms used within the Plan. The glossary was edited to ensure that the terms and definitions are up -to -date. Land Use Map Legend: The Comprehensive Plan contains a map with designations that mirror the Zoning Map. The Land Use Map Legend explains the designations and links them to the specific Comp Plan Elements. NEXT STEPS August 10, 2015: Council Public Hearing on the Tukwila International Boulevard District; Housing; and Residential Neighborhoods Elements. August 24, 2015: Council deliberation on the Tukwila International Boulevard District; Housing; and Residential Neighborhoods Elements. Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes August 10, 2015 Page 9 of 13 Fall 2015: Adopt the Comprehensive Plan updates Ms. Gierloff explained the City Council and staff will set priorities during 2016 and beyond for implementing the Comprehensive Plan's policies and strategies and begin to carry them out. Council President Kruller called for public comments. Melissa Hart, Deputy City Clerk, acknowledged receipt of 2 written comments received in the City Clerk's Office relating to the review and update of three of Tukwila's Comprehensive Plan Elements. The following two written comments were distributed to the City Council and referenced into the record: 1. A 12 -page letter from Pam Carter dated August 10, 2015, relating to the proposed review and update of the Tukwila Comprehensive Plan Elements. 2. A 4 -page email from Sandra Kruize dated August 10, 2015, relating to the proposed review and update of the Tukwila Comprehensive Plan Elements. Marty Kooistra, 1402 Third Avenue, Seattle, stated he works for the Housing Development Consortium for Seattle /King County. There are 110 members that work to address the affordable housing crisis. In addition to supporting members through policy and advocacy work, there has been a series of workshops focusing on housing and health and housing and education. They believe the policies and implementation strategies in the City's Housing Element will help the City meet the needs of all of the Tukwila residents. Affordable housing can also be an economic driver by creating jobs and vibrant communities. Tukwila can promote and provide affordable housing by leveraging the private market to create housing through the use of development incentives. In order to avoid displacement of current residents, it is important when constructing these incentives that they be structured to create both meaningful and long lasting affordability. Pat Malara, 12065 44th Place South, stated that he owns almost three acres in Allentown. He moved his small business to Allentown, which brought some employment to the area. It has been a challenge to find employees mostly due to lack of direct public transportation to the area. He stated he is going to have to make a decision that will affect the future of his business as well as fit well into the community. The decision is between moving the business or passing it on to stay at its current location. He has reached out to the City over the years in terms of business development, but has not received much support. At one time his land had as many as 40 developable lots for single family housing. Since the zoning has been changed, that number is down to around 18 to 20. He explained that he scheduled a meeting with City staff and developers to discuss development options. The developers left not sure if Tukwila would be a good partner in development due to the lack of reception and enthusiasm they experienced from the City, which gives him cause for concern. Maxine Anderson, 6415 South 153rd Street, stated she is hopeful that the Comprehensive Plan will address her concern of building extremely large homes in the City's residential neighborhoods, which have a preponderance of older, more modest homes. New homes being built in existing neighborhoods should blend into the area. Chul Kim, 3721 South 152nd Street, said he purchased an apartment complex many years ago. The new apartment that was built in his neighborhood is not being well maintained and seems to attract unsavory activities. The City's crackdown on drugs and prostitution appears to be ineffective. He is thankful the City finally closed down three motels that were attracting criminal activity, but wonders why it takes so long for that kind of action to happen. There are still more businesses in the area that attract a criminal element and need to be closed. In his opinion, until the City takes care of these businesses along Tukwila International Boulevard, the problem with crime will remain. The area does not have much appeal for those looking to relocate. He suggests if the City is serious about upgrading this area and reducing crime, first shut down the strip club and relocate some of the trailer parks. Then the City needs to update the zoning, which currently is only 21.5 units per acre, to a higher density. Financially, the current zoning does not make sense to developers. When the light rail station opens, that will be a great incentive to build in the area, but the current zoning code will not make it financially feasible. Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes August 10, 2015 Page 10 of 13 Becca Meredith, 5565 12th Avenue NE, Seattle, said she works with Forterra and the Community Connectors Program. They are working on the Comprehensive Plan project together with Global to Local. She encourages the City to support the policies that are going to make Tukwila equitable and affordable. With the light rail coming through, Tukwila is going to change quickly. Reina Blandon, 13880 38th Avenue South, is a Community Connector who works mostly with the Latino community. The Connector Program began in 2013 with the focus on the Comprehensive Plan. The most important element for the Latino community is affordable housing. It is important that the City support policies for affordable housing. Naime Magule, 14216 371h Avenue South, is a Community Connector for the Somalian community, and her concerns are security and affordable housing. It is important that Council supports the Comprehensive Plan. David Puki, 3748 South 152nd Street, feels that it is difficult for the community to get information about the Comp Plan update. He stated his concerns are about the proposed zoning updates. Specifically, if the density is increased for the Tukwila International Boulevard District, he believes that will also increase the crime. He has seen improvements in the neighborhoods with the Code Enforcement efforts. However, he is concerned with the map he has viewed that shows an area from 42nd Avenue South and Tukwila International Boulevard north to South 144th Street being considered a TIB redevelopment zone. This area includes his property along with many others that are classified as underutilized. This would impact the residential feel of the neighborhood. His concern is that the medium and high density zones have already been established and the proposed change will affect the homes in his area. A neighbor of his bought property in this area to build his retirement house, but was not allowed to move forward, as the area is now considered a medium density zone. Another concern is the possibility of the City reducing the lot size from 6,500 square feet to 6,000 square feet or even 5,500 square feet. The county standard is 7,200 square feet for a single family lot. He would like the standard that is currently being used to remain without a reduction. The current standard allows for a nice size house and parking for the homeowner. Any reduction will create neighborhoods full of cars parked on the streets. He is in favor of development; however, he is not in favor of extending that into the neighborhoods of single family homes. Barbara Wu, 5428 South 1501h Street, stated she has been a Tukwila resident for many years and is committed to this community. As a homeowner, she would like to have her neighborhood stay a single family neighborhood. She is opposed to changing single family communities into medium or high density. Any development in the single family areas should be in keeping with the neighborhood and should not overwhelm it. Sidewalks are a critical component of development of any neighborhood, as it is where people in the community meet, walk and get to know each other, which leads to building of community. One place that needs sidewalks is on Macadam Road between the Baptist Church and the Macadam Winter Garden. A lot of people walk that area on a regular basis, and it's a very dangerous area with a lot of traffic. She hopes this is taken care of before a loss of life occurs there when it could have been prevented with a sidewalk. Mary Fertakis, 11822 42nd Avenue South, stated she is speaking on behalf of the school district and the impact housing issues and policies have on the school district. According to the economic profile the City had done in 2012, 57% of the housing in Tukwila was renter occupied and this means a lot of mobility of students and families. Also at that time, 48% of the residents in Tukwila spoke a language other than English. For the 2014 -15 school year, there were 858 students who entered and 607 students who withdrew for a total of 1,465 students moving in and out of the school district. The average enrollment for those 10 months was 2,946 students. During each month every one of the five school buildings had students that entered and withdrew every month during the year. When this is added up, it totaled 49.72% turnover during the school year. The district had to do a demographic study as a part of the upcoming bond issue. The fact is the City will continue to see people coming in as a part of immigration policies, but also the rising rent costs in Seattle forces people to move out to find lower cost housing. This will impact the districts mobility numbers as costs continue to rise. The impact of mobility on student achievement is huge. Over the last 20 years that Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes August 10, 2015 Page 11 of 13 she has been on the School Board, there have been disparaging words over the student achievement data and the housing policies have had a direct effect on student achievement. She referenced a report regarding mobility within school districts in the Boston area, which are very similar to Tukwila. The mobility factor was so significant that the state legislature adopted legislation that makes mobility a part of the district achievement index. This is a community -wide issue and affects all the students -- the ones who have to leave and the ones who are left wondering what happened to their friends. Tukwila does not have adequate housing for refugees, as there are only one and two bedroom apartments when they need three and four bedrooms because of larger and multi - generational families. She would like to call the Council's attention to Tukwila's City Statement: "The City of Opportunity, Community of Choice." It is difficult to build a sense of community with housing policies that make it difficult for people to do nothing more than pass through. It is hard to say we are a community of opportunity if families who would like to stay do not have that choice because of the lack of affordable housing. She would encourage the City Council to support an innovative and progressive plan to support what is coming and what is already here. Alyssa Mehl, 1651 Bellevue Avenue, Seattle, said she is representing Bellwether Housing and is excited for the changes and updates in the Housing Element of Tukwila's Comprehensive Plan. She is here to speak in support of permanent affordable housing and specific development incentives in the plan. Bellwether Housing is one of the region's largest private, non - profit, affordable housing providers. As the demand for housing continues to rise, it is important to develop and preserve affordable housing stock. Well -built and solidly- managed affordable housing reinforces neighborhood stability. Development incentives are strong tools that encourage the development of stable housing. Bellwether Housing supports the revisions to goal 3.2 of the plan and all of the implementations of that plan. They also support goal 3.2.2 for very low income housing. Keri Williams, 419 3oth Avenue East, Seattle, stated that she works for Enterprise Community Partners, which is a nationwide non - profit organization that supports housing affordability. Enterprise Community Partners works with private and non - profit developers to bring opportunities to communities that are in need. Enterprise Community Partners believes that Tukwila is at a key pivot point in its development and evolution. The choices the Council makes will be the legacy of Tukwila for generations to come. She appreciates the innovation that Tukwila has shown in being one of the first communities to have a rental housing inspection ordinance. She feels adoption of goal 3.5, which includes housing for persons of all stages of life and for all members of the community, will open the door to opportunity. Pam Carter, 4115 South 139th Street, referenced her written comments previously submitted to the Council (as mentioned above) and conducted a review of a portion of those comments. Ms. Carter feels the Tukwila International Boulevard (TIB) update aligns with the changes along TIB and is in -line with the work being done by the Tukwila International Boulevard Action Committee (TIBAC). She voiced her concern that the planning elements were not in place before the light rail station was opened. She referenced the map (with her written comments) for the Council to use as a tool when laying out the plans going forward. She feels there is not a lot of developable land on the north part of TIB, and she did not understand why some of the boundaries for the TIB district include so much of the residential neighborhoods. She voiced her support for the emphasis of diversity on the housing issue. Tukwila is eclectic and the Comp Plan needs to recognize that, embrace change and move forward with it. Relating to the Residential Neighborhood Element, she suggested the goal relating to Southcenter Boulevard be corrected. She feels the goal does not include the west section of Southcenter Boulevard by the light rail station. Graydon Manning, 3314 Fuhrman Avenue East, Seattle, stated he is representing Homestead Community Land Trust, which is a non - profit, affordable, homeownership developer. Homestead Community Land Trust creates permanent affordable homeownership opportunities for modest income households. He said Homestead supports the proposed update to the Comprehensive Plan, especially goals 3.2 and 3.3 in the Housing Element and 3.5, 3.6, 7.3 and 7.4 in the Residential Neighborhoods Element. They have started a feasibility study on the grounds of the Riverton Park United Methodist Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes August 10, 2015 Page 12 of 13 Church, and they feel it would be a great opportunity to make something happen. The goal of the Riverton Park site would personify goal 3.5 of creating a range of affordable options on a single site Councilmember Quinn asked about the process of tracking the comments and questions taken tonight Ms. Gierloff stated that all the comments will be gathered and put into the matrix for the Council's review on August 241H 9:43 p.m. Council President Kruller closed the Public Hearing. SPECIAL ISSUES a. An ordinance amending various ordinances relating to land use and zoning, as codified at Tukwila Municipal Code Sections 18.06.552, 18.06.553, 18.06.554, 18.06.556, 18.41.020 and 18.50.210; adopting zoning restrictions on the production, processing, and retailing of marijuana uses; describing the land use impacts triggering such restrictions; adding the Tukwila South Overlay as a permitted zone for uses; establishing procedures for enforcement of violations including abatement of marijuana nuisances; and repealing Ordinance No. 2475, which established the moratorium on medical cannabis collective gardens or dispensaries. Councilmember Seal indicated this item was discussed at the Community Affairs and Parks Committee on June 22, 2015 and July 13, 2015 and by the Planning Commission on July 23, 2015. The committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. Since 2011, the City has had a moratorium prohibiting medical marijuana collective gardens and dispensaries due to a lack of clarity in state laws regarding medical marijuana and a lack of regulation of this industry. Recent changes approved by the Washington State Legislature will dramatically change the current state medical marijuana laws in phases through July 2016. The draft ordinance amends the City's Zoning Code regulations regarding marijuana uses and definitions to meet new Washington State regulations contained in SB 5052. Specifically it: 1. Repeals the existing moratorium 2. Updates definitions to match those in the new state law 3. Corrects the omission of marijuana uses from the Tukwila South Overlay (where the underlying zoning is HI or TVS) 4. References state regulations, procedures and restrictions for growth of medical marijuana for personal medical use 5. Prohibits medical marijuana cooperatives, collective gardens and dispensaries 6. Establishes new civil penalties for violations of these regulations Councilmember Seal stated, as discussed earlier in the meeting, the first "Whereas" clause should be stricken from the draft ordinance. Ms. Gierloff concurred. The Councilmembers exchanged comments and asked clarifying questions of staff on the draft ordinance. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM AS AMENDED TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. b. Review and update of three of Tukwila's Comprehensive Plan Elements: Tukwila International Boulevard District, Housing, and Residential Neighborhoods; and the Introduction, Vision, Glossary, and Land Use Map Legend of the Comprehensive Plan. This periodic review is required by the Washington State Growth Management Act. The City is completing the phased periodic review and update to the Comprehensive Plan as required by the Washington State Growth Management Act. The Planning Commission has reviewed the elements to be considered in 2015, and has provided their recommendations on the Tukwila International Boulevard Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes August 10, 2015 Page 13 of 13 District, Housing, and Residential Neighborhoods Elements, and the Introduction, Vision, Map Legend, and Glossary, to the City Council for action. The Councilmembers exchanged comments and asked clarifying questions of staff on the proposed updates to the three Comprehensive Plan Elements to include: There have been a great many comments received on the proposed updates to the Plan; The mention of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU's) has been included in the proposed updates as these type of units have been discussed for several years; The updated policies appear to reflect the City's current zoning regulations; It will be important for the Council to be able to review the actual proposed text edits at the next meeting; Housing is an issue within the City and the Council will need to ask whether the proposed language will address that issue; and It would be helpful to have the definition of "diversity" and "diversity of housing" made available. Ms. Gierloff clarified that there needs to be consistency between the Comp Plan and the City's Zoning Code, and the proposed changes bridge that gap. In regards to the comment on ADUs, that was included as an idea to be discussed. Including them as something to consider in the policies provides a guideline for staff on what types of other dwellings are acceptable and will be brought forward for review. 10:18 p.m. Councilmember Duffie exited the Council Chambers. Council President Kruller requested that the Council receive another copy of the consultant conceptual design of Tukwila International Boulevard. Additionally, she asked where individuals can submit comments on the proposed updates to the Comprehensive Plan. Ms. Gierloff stated a link to the conceptual design will be emailed to the Council, and comments on the proposed update to the Comprehensive Plan can be submitted directly to City staff. Council President Kruller suggested the Councilmembers be prepared to provide suggested language edits to staff at the next Committee of the Whole Meeting (August 24, 2015). 10:21 p.m. Councilmember Duffie returned to the Council Chambers. Councilmember Robertson commented that the concept relating to a lot size being based on the surrounding neighborhood is interesting, and he is curious what that process would look like. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE AUGUST 24, 2015 MEETING FOR REVIEW. REPORTS Due to the lateness of the hour, the Council dispensed with reports. ADJOURNMENT 10:26 1rn. COUNCIL PRESIDENT KRULLER DECLARED THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING AWIJURNED. Kate,K , CowMil President Melissa Hart, Deputy City Clerk APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT: 8/24115 AVAILABLE ON THE CITY WEBSITE: 8/25/15