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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2016-07-18 Regular MinutesTukwila City Council Regular Meeting City Hall Council Chambers July 18, 2016 — 7:00 P.M. REGULAR MEETING CALL TO ORDER/PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE /ROLL CALL Mayor Ekberg called the Regular Meeting of the Tukwila City Council to order at 7:03 p.m. and led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. ROLL CALL Melissa Hart, Deputy City Clerk, called the roll of the Council. Present were Councilmembers Verna Seal, Joe Duffie, Kathy Hougardy, De'Sean Quinn, Kate Kruller, Thomas McLeod. MOVED BY DUFFIE, SECONDED BY SEAL TO EXCUSE COUNCILMEMBER ROBERTSON FROM THE MEETING. MOTION CARRIED 6 -0. CITY OFFICIALS Allan Ekberg, Mayor; David Cline, City Administrator; Ann Marie Soto, Assistant City Attorney; Mike Villa, Police Chief; Bruce Linton, Deputy Police Chief; Robin Tischmak, City Engineer; Gail Labanara, Public Works Analyst; Chris Flores, Interim Fire Chief; Rachel Bianchi, Communications and Government Relations Manager; Joseph Todd, Technology Services Director; Stephanie Brown, Human Resources Director; Laurel Humphrey, Council Analyst; Melissa Hart, Deputy City Clerk. CITIZEN COMMENTS There were no citizen comments. C �Z � 1► ��� � � � I rl � � 17_ 1 a. Approval of Minutes: 7/5/16 (Regular) b. Approval of Vouchers #372523 & 372528; #372524 - 372527, 372529 - 372612; and #160701- 160702 in the amount of $1,357,012.18 c. A resolution rejecting all bids submitted for the South 144th Street Phase II Project. [Reviewed and forwarded to Consent by the Transportation Committee on 715116.1 RESOLUTION NO. 1885 d. Authorize the Mayor to sign a contract with Cooper Zietz Engineers, Inc., dba AKANA, for construction management services for the Tukwila Urban Center (TUC) Pedestrian /Bicycle Bridge Project in the amount of $700,669.00. [Reviewed and forwarded to Consent by the Transportation Committee on 715116.] MOVED BY DUFFIE, SECONDED BY SEAL THAT THE CONSENT AGENDA BE APPROVED AS SUBMITTED. MOTION CARRIED 6 -0. Z�T:3�L+�:I�T�7Pi[r An ordinance to place a public safety bond on the November 8, 2016 General Election ballot to fund the replacement of three seismically- unsound fire stations, guarantee funding for fire equipment and apparatus for the life of the bond, and construct a new Justice Center to house the Tukwila Police Department and Municipal Court. 7:06 p.m. Mayor Ekberg opened the public hearing and called for public comments. Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes July 18, 2016 Page 2 of 7 Christine Neuffer, 13813 37th Avenue South, said the proposed ballot measure, in its present form, is not ready for the voters. She explained that the residents she has spoken with prefer to retain the local control of the City's Police and Fire Departments. She feels that progressively funded bonds can be an appropriate tool to fund public facilities. However, it is her opinion that the proposed Public Safety Plan is not ready for voters in its present state. She has the following concerns: • The Oversight Committee • Surplus funding • The scope of the bond and long -term facilities and planning for the City of Tukwila • Impacts that a Justice Center would have on a yet to be determined neighborhood The Oversight Committee doesn't appear to have any oversight power, as it is a reporting committee under the control of the City Council, business community and non - residents. She stated that the residents are outnumbered by commercial and non - profit interests. Ms. Neuffer feels the balance of power should reside with the residents. Additionally, she voiced concern with the limited term of two years. It has been her experience that two years on a committee is not enough time to build experience or institutional memory. Finally, for an oversight committee to have purpose, the committee would need to have independent investigative powers. She feels that type of authority would need to be granted to the proposed Oversight Committee in some form. Ms. Neuffer addressed concern relating to any surplus funds. It is her understanding that the City would have the ability to move any excess funds to other City facilities without oversight. The ability to move the funds does not provide enough accountability, and that portion should be re- written to state that any surplus funds would be defeased. Regarding the scope of the project, Ms. Neuffer explained that the Tukwila School District recently implemented a successful bond process, was very detailed and in -line with the 20 -year plan for school district facilities. As such, the voters will not see another bond from the school district for 20 years, and the tax payers can be reasonably assured about what they approved. She said there was talk about constructing a new City Hall not long ago, in addition to the public safety facilities. Ms. Neuffer stated that documents can point to the likelihood that there will be another ask from the City for this purpose in the near future. However, the discussion about a new City Hall facility has been removed from the conversations. She asked if the City's position has changed and that idea has been abandoned. Ms. Neuffer relayed that her final comment related to the siting of the proposed Justice Center. In her review of the information on the proposed public safety bond, she did not find any information relating to the proposed neighborhood siting or impact statements. She would like to know the positive and negative impacts to the neighborhood where the proposed police and court facility will be located. As examples, she asked if the facility would impact home values or if there would be increased traffic and noise. On behalf of the voters, she is asking that this type of analysis be completed. Nancy Coogan, 5317 Gran Paradiso Place NW, Issaquah, Tukwila School District Superintendent, said everyday the Tukwila School District educators act as guardians of the children while in the school district facilities. The local first responders are invaluable partners to the school district and Dr. Coogan voiced her support for the proposed Public Safety Plan that prioritizes the need to fully fund the facility and equipment needs of the City's first responders. When called upon, Police and Fire staff answer the calls quickly and with the utmost professionalism and grace, which provides the school staff with a peace of mind that can't be replaced. In looking toward the future, she would like to ensure that the first responders have the tools /facilities needed to continue providing top rated service to the community. In thinking about a major incident, such as an earthquake, it would be comforting to know that the firefighters are able to assist the community on the front lines, rather than being incapacitated due to a seismically deficient fire station. The City's first responders have also taken steps in community oriented services. There are families in the City that had a previous experience with a person in a uniform that causes distrust. Due to the outreach by the Tukwila first responders, these families are learning that people in uniform can be a trusted resource. Additionally, having an accessible, welcoming Justice Center would also help build the bridge between the community and the City. She stated the Tukwila School District will stand behind any Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes July 18, 2016 Page 3 of 7 recommendation provided by the City that prioritizes the needs of the City's first responders and provides them with the resources and tools to best serve the students and families in Tukwila. Ed Parks, 3565 Lakewood Avenue South, Seattle, stated that he is the President of the Southcenter Rotary Club. He feels the proposed bond issue provides for the safety and convenience for the citizens and those who visit the Southcenter area each day. The Southcenter Rotary Club is a group of business, professional and community leaders who have been working to benefit the community since 1968. The Rotary Club feels the proposed public safety bond issue will provide a firm foundation for the future of the community. Mr. Parks relayed that 80 percent of the cost of the plan will be covered by the business community, and they feel this is a fair and appropriate way to fund the bond issue. Tukwila is a diverse and growing community that deserves adequate facilities, and the proposed bond issue will achieve that vision. Sharon Mann, 4452 South 160th Street, thanked the Council for inviting public input on the proposed public safety bond issue. She feels the bond issue will be a statement by the residents of whether they support (voting yes) or do not support (voting no) the Police and Fire Departments. Ms. Mann stated she is concerned with the public safety proposal, mainly the model chosen for the reconstruction of the three fire stations. As proposed, the City would be starting over, at the beginning, with three - quarters of the Fire Department's facilities (three stations). She asked if the City looked at other options or if business will continue as usual. Starting over can be an opportunity to change how the services are being provided. It has been stated that 80% of the calls for service are for medical needs and 20% relating to fires. The City is seeking a new Fire Chief. Ms. Mann asked if that person will have ideas for delivery of the services that the City could build upon. Options for a different model could include a central fire station or neighborhood resource centers staffed by medics. She inquired about the authority of the proposed Oversight Committee and whether they will have input or be instructed on what to do. Ms. Mann conveyed that including the proposed Public Safety Plan on the November General Election could allow for greater participation. However, she feels the residents will not have a voice in the final product. Ms. Mann said she is very active in the City and passionate about the Tukwila International Boulevard (TIB) area. The City owns property along TIB, and if there were assurances that a great Justice Center was to be constructed along TIB, she would be very supportive. New development along TIB will spur additional upgrades and improvements along that corridor. Finally, she inquired about the removal of the combined Public Works facility from the plan, as it was stated that funding has been located for that part of the project. She asked why funding was found for that project, and funding for City sidewalks could not be located. Dennis Martinez, 4660 South 160th Street, asked that the Council be cautious about spending. He stated that the City's residential tax base is rapidly aging, and will have significant items to vote on in November, such as the Sound Transit ST3 proposal. In addition to voted items, the residents will also have standard property tax increases, and the residents of the McMicken Heights area will have the added cost of sewer connection ($20,000 - $30,000) due to the Valley View Sewer District sewer project. He concurs with comments and concerns voiced by the previous speaker, and feels the City needs to address the issues. However, he is also hearing concern about the proposed increased costs from the church community. This is a tough situation and the longer the City waits, the more costly the construction of any facilities will be for the taxpayers. 7:24 p.m. Mayor Ekberg closed the public hearing. UNFINISHED BUSINESS a. Discussion on an ordinance to place a public safety bond on the November 8, 2016 General Election ballot to fund the replacement of three seismically- unsound fire stations, guarantee funding for fire equipment and apparatus for the life of the bond, and construct a new Justice Center to house the Tukwila Police Department and Municipal Court. Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes July 18, 2016 Page 4 of 7 Councilmember Seal explained that the Council will discuss this item at the July 25, 2016 Committee of the Whole meeting. She asked the Council to identify topics where staff can provide clarification to aid the Council in preparation of a robust discussion at the next meeting. She stated that staff will provide information addressing the comments received during the Public Hearing portion of tonight's meeting. Council President Duffie thanked the audience members for providing testimony during the Public Hearing this evening. Councilmember Hougardy stated that she has some questions she will raise this evening as she will not be in attendance at the July 25, 2016 Committee of the Whole Meeting. She would like additional information on the proposed Oversight Committee including: the role and term length for committee members; role of the non - profit organization; and an increase in resident participation on the committee. Ms. Hougardy asked that clarification be provided in response to the comment about the funding for the combined Public Safety facility. Councilmember Quinn encouraged staff to address any misunderstandings in information sooner rather than later. Mr. Quinn commented that there have been questions asked this evening that were addressed earlier in the process, and he thanked the audience members for providing testimony this evening. He said the Council chose to address the funding for the Public Works facility through the established utility taxes to lessen the burden on the residents. He explained that the City has held several meetings relating to the Public Safety Plan, and he feels the plan needs to be funded. The proposed bond measure is a way to fund the identified public safety needs, and delaying the decision will only increase the cost to the taxpayers. Councilmember Kruller commented that the Council has heard that the community supports the Tukwila Police and Fire Departments. While acknowledging that something needs to be done about the aging facilities, she asked whether the City can afford to move forward with the proposed plan. As Mr. Parks stated during the Public Hearing portion of the meeting, the business community, who bear 80% of the responsibility, fully support the plan. That leaves the remaining 20% to the residents. Ms. Kruller stated that the bond issue could burden those who are on a fixed income. She voiced her concern in the beginning of the process, that apparatus items were included in the bond issue. Ms. Kruller asked that the total cost of the bond be included in the materials for the next meeting. She commented that Fire Station 51, which is the City's Fire Department Headquarters and Emergency Operations Center, is located within the flood plain, and she voiced support for moving forward with the Public Safety Plan. Ms. Kruller referenced the following concerns relating to the proposed Oversight Committee: • What would the SMART goal measurements be for "... progress on achieving the purposes of this proposition "? • What happens if public interest decreases for service on the committee • Could a business representative also live in Tukwila, or could a resident representative also own a business in Tukwila? • The City Council should set the meeting schedule for the proposed committee. • What is the point of a non - profit representative and what if the non - profit is not a property owner? • Missing two meetings in any order, without an excused absence as grounds for removal from the committee. • Have the City establish a set -aside process for funding future projects that shows the community the City is invested in these types of projects. Councilmember McLeod stated he is listening to the comments made by the residents and any questions asked are being addressed during the Council's review process. He concurred with Councilmember Hougardy relating to the number of residential members on the proposed Oversight Committee. Mr. McLeod reminded the audience members that the Councilmembers are also residents of Tukwila, and they will share the tax burden along with the other taxpayers. Councilmember Seal commented on the issue relating to a non - profit, as this was her suggestion. She explained that including a non - profit, such as the IRC (International Rescue Committee), for example, would help represent the immigrant portion of Tukwila residents. Ms. Seal stated the purpose of including Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes July 18, 2016 Page 5 of 7 the proposed Oversight Committee in the bond measure was a way to memorialize the intent, and the details of the committee could be defined and established by an ordinance or resolution if the bond measure is approved. Councilmember Quinn thanked the Finance and Safety Committee for working through the public safety issues, including the community outreach piece. He stated that City staff is available to answer questions on the proposed bond issue. He explained that in the past the City had funding to spend on these types of issues. However, that has changed and the Council has been questioning the City's spending. He feels the proposed bond measure will address the immediate issue, while providing the building blocks for future projects. Council President Duffie voiced his appreciation for the business community's interest in the City and the proposed measure. The City has a daytime population of (approximately) 150,000 people, and he feels it is time for the City to make a change. Councilmember Kruller stated that preplanning the siting of any proposed facilities could significantly increase the price of land. Mayor Ekberg said that the design and siting process for a new fire station will be an open and transparent process. Councilmember Kruller stated that the City Hall facility was deemed one of the better City facilities. The Council could discuss the next steps of possibly repurposing the existing City Hall facility in the future. b. Approve funding to upgrade the previously approved half -time position to full -time for technology support for the Police Records System (Spillman) and move the position to Technology Services. MOVED BY SEAL, SECONDED BY DUFFIE TO APPROVE FUNDING TO UPGRADE THE PREVIOUSLY APPROVED HALF -TIME POSITION TO FULL -TIME FOR TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT FOR THE POLICE RECORDS SYSTEM (SPILLMAN) AND MOVE THE POSITION TO TECHNOLOGY SERVICES. MOTION CARRIED 6 -0. REPORTS a. Mayor Mayor Ekberg attended the AileyCamp Founders' Day Celebration on July 13, 2016. He announced that the AileyCamp final performance will be held on August 4, 2016 at the Foster High School Performing Arts Center. On July 14, 2016 he visited with the students at the Highline College Marine Science and Technology Center. On July 15, 2016 he attended the 100 Years of Boeing — Founders Day Light Show at the Museum of Flight. Mr. Ekberg commented that the City's Emergency Management and other City staff worked diligently with Boeing on preparations for the celebration events. On July 16, 2016 he participated in the Leaders at the Library event with Dr. Nancy Coogan, Tukwila School District Superintendent. b. City Council Council President Duffie offered his condolences to all the families that have been affected by the recent tragedies across the country. Councilmember Hougardy attended the "See You in the Park" event on July 13, 2016. She commented that the event was held at Bicentennial Park and there was a variety of attendees (residents and businesses) at the event. Ms. Hougardy updated the Council and audience members on how they can nominate a tree to be considered as part of the City's Heritage Tree Program. Ms. Hougardy recently visited Confetti Confections, a new Tukwila bakery (located at 654 Strander Boulevard) that she will be visiting again. Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes July 18, 2016 Page 6 of 7 Councilmember Kruller attended the Sound Cities Association (SCA) Public Issues Committee (PIC) meeting on July 13, 2016. On July 14, 2016 she attended the Puget Sound Regional Council Transportation Policy Board Meeting, and the 100 Years of Boeing — Founders Day Light Show at the Museum of Flight on July 15, 2016. Mayor Ekberg commented that a link to the 100 Years of Boeing — Founders Day Light Show will be shared with the Council. Councilmember McLeod attended the 100 Years of Boeing — Founders Day Light Show at the Museum of Flight on July 15, 2016, and he commended the City's Emergency Management and staff for their work on the event. On July 16, 2016 he attended the Leaders at the Library event. c. Staff David Cline, City Administrator, referenced the City Administrator (CA) Report in the packet and offered to answer any questions. Councilmember Kruller requested that staff update the audience on the status of the Strander Boulevard Extension Project. Mr. Cline stated that the Strander Boulevard Phase 3 project is a priority for the City. He explained that the City has received notification that the project has been identified as a proposed recipient of $5 million in funding as part of the FASTLANE (Fostering Advancements in Shipping and Transportation for the Long -term Achievement of National Efficiencies) project awards. d. City Attorney There was no report. e. Intergovernmental There was no report. MISCELLANEOUS Council President Duffie attended the 100 Years of Boeing — Founders Day Light Show at the Museum of Flight on July 15, 2016, and he commented on the success of the event and detour routes. Mayor Ekberg commented on the excellent customer service displayed by the Tukwila Police Department staff during the Boeing Centennial celebration events. Councilmember Seal asked that anyone interested in serving on either the pro or con committee for the Public Safety Ballot measure submit their name to Rachel Bianchi, Communications Manager, by July 25 at 5:00 p.m. Mayor Ekberg stated that the City issued a special edition E- Hazelnut newsletter on July 15, 2016 relating to the pro /con committees. Laurel Humphrey, Council Analyst, said those interested in the pro /con committees may contact Ms. Bianchi at 206 - 454 -7566. Councilmember Kruller asked City Administration to explain the purpose of a pro /con committee. Mr. Cline explained that when a jurisdiction has an item on the ballot, the City needs to have three individuals to write a "pro" statement and three different individuals prepare a "con" statement on the ballot item that will be included in the voter's pamphlet. Councilmember Kruller reminded the Council and audience of the following upcoming events Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes July 18, 2016 Page 7 of 7 • July 26, 2016: Cascade View Elementary Safe Routes to School Phase II Open House at the Riverton Park United Methodist Church. • August 10, 2016: Surface Water Low Impact Development Open House at the Tukwila Community Center. EXECUTIVE SESSION — To evaluate the qualifications of an applicant for public employment — Pursuant to RCW 42.30.110(1)(g) — 60 minutes Mayor Ekberg announced that the Council will go into Executive Session to evaluate the qualifications of an applicant for public employment — Pursuant to RCW 42.30.110(1)(g). It will last no more than 60 minutes, and no decisions will be made during the Executive Session. No action will be required in the Open Meeting after the Executive Session has concluded. 8:30 p.m. Mayor Ekberg called a 5 minute recess to allow the audience to exit the Council Chambers. Executive Session Start: 8:35 p.m. Attendees: Allan Ekberg, Mayor; David Cline, City Administrator; Stephanie Brown, Human Resources Director; Marcus Kragness, Prothman Company; Councilmembers Duffie, Seal, Hougardy, Quinn, Kruller and McLeod. ( Councilmember Robertson not present) Executive Session End: 9:15 p.m. 9:15 p.m. Mayor Ekberg reconvened the Regular Meeting. ADJOURNMENT 9:15 P.m. UNANIMQUS CONSENSUS EXISTED TO ADJOURN THE REGULAR MEETING. Ekberg, Mayor Melissa Hart, Deputy City Clerk APPROVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL: 8/1/16 AVAILABLE ON CITY WEBSITE: 8/2/16