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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2016-02-08 Committee of the Whole MinutesTukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Meeting City Hall Council Chambers February 8, 2016 — 7:00 P.M. 11 ► , COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE CALL TO ORDER /PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Council President Duffie called the Tukwila City Council meeting to order at 7:04 p.m. Councilmember Kruller led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. OFFICIALS Present were Joe Duffie, Council President; Councilmembers Dennis Robertson, Verna Seal, Kathy Hougardy, Kate Kruller, Thomas McLeod. Councilmember Quinn was not present. CITY OFFICIALS Allan Ekberg, Mayor; David Cline, City Administrator; Bob Giberson, Public Works Director; Chris Flores, Interim Fire Chief; Bruce Linton, Deputy Police Chief; Derek Speck, Economic Development Administrator; Jack Pace, Community Development Director; Laurel Humphrey, Council Analyst; Melissa Hart, Deputy City Clerk. CITIZEN COMMENTS Nancy Coogan, 5317 Gran Paradiso Place, Issaquah, stated that last week the Tukwila School District was named one of the top districts in the nation for creating higher education opportunities for underrepresented students. The Tukwila School District is one of 130 districts in the United States to be included on the College Board's 2015 Gaston Caperton Opportunity Honor Roll. This is for districts that have provided students with rigorous academic offerings and innovative college - preparation programs, and that have demonstrated consistent growth in the number of diverse and low income students taking college level courses and that have applied to college. This has been possible by strategically aligned efforts and resource allocation. In the past several years the district has doubled the number of students taking advance placement (AP) courses. They ensure that every student takes the PSAT three times and the SAT twice by the time they graduate. They hold many financial aid nights, where volunteers work one -on -one with students to complete their forms. The district enrolls 100% of income eligible students in the state's College Bound Scholarship which pays full tuition at state schools. The district has invested in college and career counselors and a re- engagement specialist to account for every student's academic achievement. Dr. Coogan stated that they are creating a culture where every student, regardless of race, income, or experience, aspires to higher education and has a clear path to get there. This is the foundation for individual success and financial stability, and for a healthy, thriving, community. (An article regarding this announcement can be found in the Tukwila Reporter at http:// www. tukwilareporter .com /news/368094271.html ). She thanked the City Council for their support of the Tukwila School District replacement levies (two levies- one for school programs and operations and one for technology) and the bond measure (to build an early learning center, school facility additions and pay for deferred maintenance.) The Councilmembers exchanged comments on the award and congratulated Dr. Coogan and the Tukwila School District staff for their many successes. Mayor Ekberg commented that today he had the opportunity to talk with students during lunch at Foster High School about their future and opportunities within the City. Dennis Martinez, 4660 South 160th Street, commented that during the "Reports" section of the February 1, 2016 Regular Meeting there was reference to a roadwork project and delays associated with Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes February 8, 2016 Page 2 of 7 the project. He explained that most contracts include a "Liquidated Damages" clause to protect the customer (City). He asked if the Council would entertain having the Public Works Director provide an explanation for the viewing audience on "Liquidated Damages." David Cline, City Administrator, commented that this particular conversation began at the most recent Transportation Committee meeting, and the project is still currently in the "construction phase." This item could be discussed now, or staff could schedule a time on a future agenda to discuss the status of all the City's projects. Councilmember Robertson stated the Transportation Committee held a lengthy discussion on the contract and project. As the project is still in the construction phase, he would rather not have a discussion on this issue at this point. He thanked Mr. Martinez for the suggestion and explained there are several clauses within these types of contracts, and it would be best to allow the construction to be completed. The Transportation Committee is following the status of the project. SPECIAL ISSUES a. An update on "One Night Count." Laurel Humphrey, Council Analyst, explained representatives from Seattle /King County Coalition on Homelessness will present the results of the One Night Count, an annual count of homeless people, which occurred in Tukwila on January 29, 2016. Ms. Humphrey introduced Rebecca Roy, Community Projects Manager, and Alison Eisinger, Executive Director, with Seattle /King County Coalition on Homelessness. Ms. Roy provided a brief history of the Seattle /King County Coalition on Homelessness. The coalition was formed in 1979 by volunteers in an attempt to better serve the homeless population. At this time, the coalition is managed by 60+ member agencies. A Federal mandate requires that the "One Night Count" be completed annually within the last 10 days of January. Ms. Roy distributed a packet of information relating to the 2016 "One Night Count" and referred to that material including: • The Count is made possible through the efforts of the coalition's 60+ member organizations, strong collaboration with local governments, and partnership and support of All Home. • 1,100 volunteers participated in the 2016 "One Night Count ", which was conducted between the hours of 2:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m., fanning out from twelve locations throughout King County to count people in Auburn, Bellevue, Bothell, Burien, Des Moines, Federal Way, Issaquah, Kent, Kenmore, Kirkland, Redmond, Renton, Seattle Shoreline, Skyway, Vashon Island, White Center, Woodinville, and parts of unincorporated King County. • Who counts as homeless during the One Night Count? People who lack fixed, regular, and adequate night -time residences; are in a shelter or transitional living situation designed to be temporary; or are in a public or private place not meant to be a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings. (This is the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) definition of homelessness.) Who is NOT counted as homeless during the One Night Count? People who are doubled up or couch surfing; people who can pay for a motel that night; children in foster care; people in the hospital; people in jail; and others whose circumstances may be very unstable but who on that night are not homeless. Because people outside are counted only in select areas in King County, not everyone is included. The total count is a bare minimum. Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes February 8, 2016 Page 3 of 7 Summary of the 2016 Count of Unsheltered People in Selected Areas of King County The minimum count of 4,505 represents a 19% increase over 2015, and three quarters of the increase are within the selected areas that are counted each year. Ms. Eisinger stated the coalition needs voices in Olympia talking about the issues. People have asked "What more can we do ?" The coalition has scheduled two Homeless Advocacy 101 Workshops that will be held on February 24, 2016 at St. Luke's Church (5710 22nd Avenue NW, Seattle) and on February 27, 2016 at the Kent Library (212 2nd Avenue North, Kent). Those interested in attending the workshops should register at: www.homelessinfo.orq. There are special events used to count the youth and young adults. Ms. Eisinger said they would be willing to attend another meeting to discuss this and other issues if the Council would like additional information. Council President Duffie asked Ms. Eisinger to work with the Council Analyst on any future updates. The Councilmembers exchanged comments on the above topic, and asked clarifying questions of the presenters. The Council thanked Ms. Roy and Ms. Eisinger for the informational materials and the presentation. b. A contract for consulting services for preliminary engineering for Strander Boulevard Extension project. Councilmember Robertson indicated this item was discussed at the Transportation Committee meeting on February 1, 2016. A majority of the committee members recommended approval. Seattle Kent North End East Side SW Count Federal Way Renton Night Owl Buses Auburn Vashon Island Total Men 827 21 55 55 65 25 46 109 13 9 1,225 Women 153 7 12 34 21 7 14 19 3 1 271 Gender unknown 1951 136 64 150 226 231 100 0 94 28 2,980 Minor (under 18) 11 1 4 6 3 0 0 4 0 0 29 Total 2,942 165 135 245 315 263 160 132 110 38 4,505 Benches 46 2 2 1 5 1 0 0 0 0 57 Parking Garages 26 2 0 25 0 0 1 0 0 0 54 Cars /Trucks 914 42 53 85 161 199 75 0 48 31 1,608 Structures 533 4 4 27 55 2 18 0 3 7 653 Under roadways 257 2 2 8 4 1 14 0 2 0 290 Doorways 271 1 2 3 10 3 7 0 0 0 297 City Parks 24 0 3 0 0 0 9 0 30 0 66 Bushes/ Undergrowth 37 60 3 9 2 30 12 0 0 0 153 Bus stops 29 21 5 0 0 8 1 0 0 0 64 Alleys 32 9 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 41 Walking Around 494 14 10 15 13 13 16 0 4 0 579 Other 279 8 51 72 65 6 7 132 23 0 643 Total 2,942 165 135 245 315 263 160 132 110 38 4,505 The minimum count of 4,505 represents a 19% increase over 2015, and three quarters of the increase are within the selected areas that are counted each year. Ms. Eisinger stated the coalition needs voices in Olympia talking about the issues. People have asked "What more can we do ?" The coalition has scheduled two Homeless Advocacy 101 Workshops that will be held on February 24, 2016 at St. Luke's Church (5710 22nd Avenue NW, Seattle) and on February 27, 2016 at the Kent Library (212 2nd Avenue North, Kent). Those interested in attending the workshops should register at: www.homelessinfo.orq. There are special events used to count the youth and young adults. Ms. Eisinger said they would be willing to attend another meeting to discuss this and other issues if the Council would like additional information. Council President Duffie asked Ms. Eisinger to work with the Council Analyst on any future updates. The Councilmembers exchanged comments on the above topic, and asked clarifying questions of the presenters. The Council thanked Ms. Roy and Ms. Eisinger for the informational materials and the presentation. b. A contract for consulting services for preliminary engineering for Strander Boulevard Extension project. Councilmember Robertson indicated this item was discussed at the Transportation Committee meeting on February 1, 2016. A majority of the committee members recommended approval. Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes February 8, 2016 Page 4 of 7 Bob Giberson, Public Works Director, explained the proposed contract would provide Early Start Work design services for the Strander Boulevard Extension Phase 3 Project. This project includes construction of the undercrossing of the railroad to complete the four -lane roadway from West Valley Highway to Renton. BergerABAM was selected from the MRSC consultant roster as one of the three top engineering firms that are experienced in the design of similar railroad grade separation projects. Mr. Giberson stated the Transportation Committee had requested that staff provide a timeline of the 2016 grant- seeking opportunities; a summary of the anticipated funding sources include: • Federal Surface Transportation Program (STP) Funds (Design and Right -of -Way) request estimated $5M or more) — Call for Projects Spring 2016; Funds available 2017 • Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) Grant (To be used for Construction only - request $20M) — Unknown future program; Anticipate 2017/2018 if authorized • State Transportation Improvement Board (Construction only — request estimated $10M) — Applications due late August 2016 • Federal STP Funds (Construction — request estimated $10M) — Call for Projects in 2018 or 2019 • Freight Mobility Strategic Investment Board (Construction only) - $5M committed • Northwest Arena Mitigation — Dependent upon arena project moving forward - $5M committed Councilmember Robertson explained that the Transportation Committee reviewed the Strander Boulevard Extension project against the other transportation (only) projects in the current Capital Improvement Program (CIP), and determined this is a high priority project. The Transportation Committee did discuss a potential Local Improvement District (LID) for the City's portion of the project costs. Mr. Robertson referenced Ordinance No. 2411, the LID that was used successfully for the Klickitat project. The City is going to spend a great deal of money on the Strander Boulevard project in the future. However, the City must also look at funding for a City Facilities Plan, and a possible increase in Human Services funding. He voiced support for the proposed agreement to move forward, and he is in favor of the City considering a LID for the remaining funding that will be needed for the project. Councilmember Seal stated there was a lengthy discussion on this item at the recent Transportation Committee meeting. The Strander Boulevard Extension project has been discussed for the past 11 years, and a completed project would benefit the City and the region. Ms. Seal also would like the Transportation Committee to have a discussion on a possible LID as a funding option for this project. Councilmember Hougardy voiced her support for the proposed project and the comments made by her fellow Councilmembers. The completed project would provide a much needed east —west corridor, which is what is lacking in the City. A new east —west corridor would be a great improvement for the City and the region. She also supports a discussion at a future Transportation Committee meeting on a possible LID as a funding mechanism. Councilmember Kruller stated the recommendation for this agenda item is for the Council to approve the proposed consultant agreement. By moving forward with the design of the project it could increase the City's chances of receiving grant funding for the project. Ms. Kruller is on the Puget Sound Regional Policy (PSRC) Board, and that Board will be issuing notification of grants for upcoming urban transportation projects. Councilmember McLeod spoke in favor of the project, and he concurred with the previous comments from his fellow Councilmembers. There are goals to increase housing within the City's Urban Center, and the addition of a new east -west transportation corridor could benefit that growth. Councilmember Robertson asked if there was Council support for staff to begin preliminary work on a proposed LID for the project. Since the preliminary work by staff will cost money, the committee wanted to make sure there was full Council support for a potential LID as a funding source. Mr. Robertson stated that in the near future the Council will be asking the residents to vote on new debt (facilities); he wants to make sure they know the City has looked for other ways to fund projects. Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes February 8, 2016 Page 5 of 7 Speaking as the Chair of the Transportation Committee, Councilmember Robertson stated the committee would be willing to return to a future Council meeting with an agenda item to discuss a possible LID for this project. After Council discussion it was determined that a discussion of a potential LID for this project will take place at a future Transportation Committee meeting. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING CONSENT AGENDA. c. A contract for consulting services for Cascade View "Safe Routes to School," Phase II. Councilmember Robertson indicated this item was discussed at the Transportation Committee meeting on February 1, 2016. A majority of the committee members recommended approval. The proposed contract is to provide engineering and design services for the Cascade View Elementary School "Safe Routes to School" Phase II Project that includes a traffic circle and sidewalks. The City requested Statement of Qualifications from the MRSC consultant roster and three firms were interviewed. KPG, Inc. was selected as the firm that best met the project requirements. The Council is being asked to approve the design contract with KPG, Inc. in the amount of $138,205.30. Mr. Giberson referred to a scrivener error in the contract included on pages 43 and 70 of the agenda packet. He stated that the contract amount should be referenced as $138,205.30 (as opposed to $139,205.30), and the correction will be made in the final contract. The Councilmembers exchanged comments and asked clarifying questions of staff on the agenda topic. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. . . a. Mayor Mayor Ekberg attended the recent Cascade Water Alliance and Valley Communications Board Meetings. On February 3, 2016 he attended the Sound Cities Association (SCA) Meeting, and the Equity and Diversity Commission meeting on February 4, 2016. On February 8, 2016 he had lunch with a group of students at Foster High School, where he discussed the City's scholarship program. Later that afternoon he attended the King County Cities Climate Collaboration meeting. b. City Council Councilmember Robertson stated in reference to a potential LID for the Strander Boulevard Extension project, the Council Operating Procedures state there be Council consensus on an item prior to having City Administration and staff move forward with a Council requested project. Additionally, Council President Duffie has tasked each of the Council Committees with a thorough review of all items prior to moving forward for Council discussion. He feels at some point the Council Agenda Synopsis (CAS) will need to be edited to allow a way to highlight an item that has changed as a result of the discussion at committee level. Councilmember Seal participated in the Citizenship Day on February 6, 2016, where 60 individuals were assisted to complete the very extensive citizenship application. This is a very long process, and Ms. Seal reviewed some stories of the individuals who attended the event. She announced that the next Citizenship Day will be held on June 25, 2016, and she will be contacting the City's Equity and Diversity Commission about the possibility of a dual- sponsorship for a Tukwila Citizenship Day event. Information on this event can be found at Washington New Americans website: www.wanewamericans.org. Council President Duffie stated that he attended the recent Cascade Water Alliance Board meeting. He participated in the National African American Parent Involvement Day on February 8, 2016. Mr. Duffie referred to his use of the 5- minute time clock during his report, and offered the suggestion to all Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes February 8, 2016 Page 6 of 7 Councilmembers. Mr. Duffie also thanked the Council Committees for their work on the topics that were included in the agenda this evening. Councilmember Hougardy attended the most recent Regional Transportation Committee meeting where the committee continued the discussion on the Metro Long Range Plan. Ms. Hougardy explained that the committee has been working through the draft plan to make sure the plan is as comprehensive and fair as possible. On February 3, 2016 she attended the Sound Cities Association Regional Board and Committee Orientation meeting. Councilmember Kruller attended the Sound Cities Association Regional Board and Committee Orientation meeting on February 3, 2016, and she has been assisting with outreach for the Tukwila School District Levies. She commented that the Tukwila Pantry will be having an emergency Board Meeting later this week to address some recent issues. She stated that the next Council Coffee Chat will be on Saturday, February 13, 2016, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Billy Baroo's — 13500 Interurban Avenue South. Ms. Kruller said she recently heard that landlords are increasing rent in order to evict tenants. She intends to have the Community Affairs and Parks Committee discuss a "Just Cause for Evictions" ordinance to assist in protecting tenants. She requested the Council receive an update on the motel demolition at a future Council meeting, so the public is aware of the status of the project. Councilmember McLeod attended the Sound Cities Association Regional Board and Committee Orientation meeting on February 3, 2016. He also attended the most recent AWC meeting, as he is working to familiarize himself with these groups. c. Staff David Cline, City Administrator, stated at the last Council meeting there was a request for an update on the demolition of the motels along Tukwila International Boulevard. He explained that the contractor has started coordination on hazardous material abatement and utility disconnection for the Traveler's Choice Motel, which is scheduled to be demolished in February. Mr. Cline stated that additional project information will be included in the next City Administrator Report. d. City Attorney The City Attorney's presence is not required at Committee of the Whole meetings. e. Intergovernmental Laurel Humphrey, Council Analyst, reminded the Council and audience that City offices will be closed on Monday, February 15, 2016 in recognition of Presidents' Day. The City Council Regular Meeting and the Finance and Safety Committee meeting will each shift one day accordingly. MISCELLANEOUS Council President Duffie stated that he has been asked if the City will be cancelling senior citizen programs in order to fund the Teens for Tukwila delegation attendance at the upcoming National League of Cities (NLC) Conference. Mr. Cline clarified that potential funding sources for the Teens for Tukwila delegation to the NLC Conference included utilizing funds from the Sister Cities budget, in addition to other funding sources. Cancelling any of the City's senior citizen programs has not been considered. Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes February 8, 2016 ADJOURNMENT Page 7 of 7 8:47 p.m. COUNCIL PRESIDENT DUFFIE DECLARED THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING ADJOURNED TO CONVENE A SPECIAL MEETING. goe'duffie, Coun r4ident ( A Melissa Hart, Deputy City Clerk APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT: 2/22/16 AVAILABLE ON THE CITY WEBSITE: 2/23/16