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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2016-11-07 Regular MinutesTukwila City Council Regular Meeting City Hall Council Chambers November 7, 2016 — 7:00 P.M. MINUTES REGULAR MEETING CALL TO ORDER/PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE /ROLL CALL Mayor Ekberg called the Regular Meeting of the Tukwila City Council to order at 7:07 p.m. and led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. Christy O'Flaherty, City Clerk, called the roll of the Council. Present were Councilmembers Dennis Robertson, Verna Seal, Joe Duffie, Kathy Hougardy, De'Sean Quinn, Kate Kruller, Thomas McLeod. CITY OFFICIALS Allan Ekberg, Mayor; David Cline, City Administrator; Rachel Turpin, City Attorney; Bob Giberson, Public Works Director; Jack Pace, Community Development Director; Stephanie Brown, Human Resources Director; Joseph Todd, Technology and Innovation Services Director; Rick Still, Parks and Recreation Director; Peggy McCarthy, Finance Director; Vicky Carlsen, Deputy Finance Director; Jay Wittwer, Fire Chief; Rachel Bianchi, Communications and Government Relations Manager; Trish Kinlow, Court Administrator; Mike Villa, Police Chief; Laurel Humphrey, Council Analyst; Christy O'Flaherty, City Clerk; Francesca Siegler, Deputy City Clerk. ANNOUNCEMENT Christy O'Flaherty, City Clerk, introduced Francesca Siegler to the City Council. Ms. Siegler is the City's new Deputy City Clerk. Ms. Siegler worked for 13 years in the Safety Department of a large construction company in California prior to moving to Washington State. Most recently she worked in a temporary, part -time position of Public Records Request Assistant for the City Clerk's Office. Ms. Siegler was a quick study and became a reliable and highly capable member of the team. Ms. Siegler left the part -time position for a full -time job, and when the Deputy City Clerk position came open she applied. She was the favored candidate by 2 interview panels, including a panel of her co- workers here in the City Clerk's Office. She is a welcome asset to the team. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS Mayor Ekberg's 2017 -2018 Budget presentation. Mayor Ekberg thanked the City Council for their leadership and review of the preliminary budget. The budget presented is balanced and fiscally sound throughout the next biennium. As was the case 2 years ago, this budget is based on priorities that the City leadership, including the Council, Mayor and key staff, developed collaboratively based on the foundation provided in the goals of the City's adopted Strategic Plan. As a reminder, this biennium's priorities are: • Cultivate safe, attractive and welcoming neighborhoods • Promote dynamic urban environments • Leverage effective partnerships and collaboration • Encourage healthy, safe and affordable housing • Maximize Tukwila's significant economic strength and potential • Ensure organizational effectiveness and responsible financial stewardship; and • Foster civic pride and an informed community Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes November 7, 2016 Page 2 of 6 A draft budget was developed based on these priorities and goals. The 2017 -2018 budget is fiscally sound, and the forecast for the coming years — barring an economic event — shows that our city remains in good fiscal health. The City has deliberately held the line where possible on staffing increases resourced from the General Fund. However, the significant increases in workload experienced in the Tukwila Municipal Court, as well as in the Street Division could not be denied. In response to these realities, we have proposed adding a three - quarter time person in the Court and taking the current half- time street maintenance worker to full time. City Administration also took a deliberate look at our existing staffing, and moved positions around to accommodate critical needs in our organization. The main area is around technology, which has been underfunded and understaffed over the years. This budget proposes redeploying three positions from other departments to Technology and Innovation Services to address the backlog of work and deploy new technologies. This investment will have a direct and positive impact on City services. As an example, Technology and Innovation Services will be able to more quickly deploy the Parks and Recreation Department's new records management system, which will allow residents and other community members to sign up for classes and programs online. Additionally, while we have already begun using the Police Department's new records management system internally, once fully deployed it will also allow customers to file non - emergency police reports online and provide our community with better and more detailed access to police - related data. Both of these new investments will free up staff time to devote to other priorities. As technology continues to play a more significant role in everyone's lives, it is critical that we make proper investments that ensure the efficient delivery of services to our City. One such investment already embraced is Tukwila Works, the new online and app -based issue - reporting system that provides a new way for the City to engage with the community. To date, more than 300 issues have been reported to the City on this platform. In the coming biennium, I also want to examine how we can deploy Citywide and free wi -fi throughout Tukwila so that school children in our community have access to the Internet, which has become essential for learning. Tukwila Code Enforcement continues to be fully staffed, resulting in the historically highest number of abatements we had in 2015. The City will also continue its investments on Tukwila International Boulevard. Later this fall the new Tukwila Library will open at Tukwila Village, and next year the ribbon cutting for the first of the residential buildings and community space will take place. The proposed budget continues the full staffing of the Police Department. Through our investments and their hard work, last year we saw a 15 -year low in robberies and a 10 -year low in residential burglaries. I continue to be proud of the men and women in our Police Department. Our Parks and Recreation Department will continue to offer superior programming, evidenced by the fact that it is experiencing the highest program participation rates in its history. Additionally, our enhanced community engagement will continue, building on the City's new website, social media, the Tukwila Works platform, and enhanced engagement with critical partners such as the Tukwila School District. This budget also reflects an increase in human services funding by $50,000 each year. The Mayor thanked the City Council for identifying the need for these additional investments and looks forward to a broader discussion about how the City can systemically support the need for human services in our community. This year's budget development effort included an unprecedented amount of outreach regarding the budget. Beyond the open houses, mailings were sent on the budget to each residence, multiple articles were placed on the City Pages in the Tukwila Reporter, and TukTV on Channel 21 as well as the City's social media platforms were utilized. This was done to both push out information and to solicit feedback and input throughout the budget process. Next week, on Monday, November 14, there is another opportunity for people to provide their feedback through the formal public hearing that will be held here in the Council Chambers. The City Council played an integral role in the budget process this year. Over the summer and into fall, each Council committee performed significant preliminary review of all facets of the budget. This collaborative work has resulted in a better budget. Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes November 7, 2016 Page 3 of 6 Our City's voters will determine whether they support our Public Safety Bond and its effort to rebuild three fire stations and construct a Justice Center for the Tukwila Police and Tukwila Municipal Court, as well as fully fund fire equipment and apparatus for the next twenty years There are many opportunities on our horizon. Tukwila International Boulevard will continue totransform as Tukwila Village comes online and as other investments are made in the neighborhood. Both Washington Place and the new pedestrian bridge will be open in the next biennium, and the hard work that was done on the Southcenter plan will continue to bring in positive change and development to that neighborhood. Westfield Southmantar, a major economic engine in our state, will also turn 50 during this time. As the Community of Choice, we must continue to work to deploy strategies to ensure a variety of housing in Tukwila remains affordable. VVe need ho also keep our eye on the economy and continue to spur economic investments to retain a positive economic outlook moving forward. VVe will also continue strengthening the relationship we have with our school districts, supporting their efforts to best educate our City's youth and ready them for jobs and/or higher education. Mayor Ekberg expressed appreciation for the good work of the Council and the continuing collaboration through the next biennium. a. Apnoo|urnmtion in recognition of Veterans Day. Mayor Ekberg invited Council President Duffie and Councilmember Robertson, both veterans, to join him at the podium while he read a proclamation encouraging all public officials and members of the community to join him in observing Veterans Day. The Mayor referenced two Veterans Day events with one occurring on November 10, 2016 at the Tukwila Community Center at 10:00 a.m. and the other at the Museum of Flight on November 11, 2016 at 11:OOa.m. b. Appointments and Reappointments: (1) Arts Commission. Confirm the appointment of Helen Enguerra to Position #6 on the Arts Commission, with a term expiring 12/31/17. MOVED BY SEAL, SECONDED BY DUFF|ETO CONFIRM THE APPOINTMENT OF HELEN EN{3UEFlRATO POSITION #6 ON THE ARTS COMMISSION, WITH ATERKO EXPIRING 12/31/17.^ Cynthia(|hosok. Arts Commissioner, introduced Mo. Engunrnuto the City Council. My. Enguerra graduated from Foster High School, where she was active with the Pacific Islanders dance group and choreographed multiple theater productions. She graduated from the University of Washington and io employed ooan Admissions Counselor. She will bring great perspective ho the Commission. Ms. Enguerra relayed that she moved to the United States in 2005 from America Samoa by herself, and it was her teachers and Tukwila citizens like Ms. Chesak who raised her and helped her navigate to get where she iotoday. She originally came to live in Tukwila and still resides here today and is excited to be e part of the Arts Commission. The Counci|members expressed appreciation to KAa. Enguena for sharing her story and her willingness to serve the Tukwila community. *MOTION CARRIED 7-O. Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes November 7, 2016 Page 4 of 6 2) Equity and Diversity Commission. a. Confirm the appointment of Dr. Nancy Coogan to Position #5 on the Equity and Diversity Commission, with a term expiring 7/31/18. MOVED BY HOUGARDY, SECONDED BY KRULLER TO CONFIRM THE APPOINTMENT OF DR. NANCY COOGAN TO POSITION #5 ON THE EQUITY AND DIVERSITY COMMISSION, WITH A TERM EXPIRING 7/31/18.* Dr. Coogan, Tukwila School District Superintendent, said it is a number 1 priority for the Tukwila School Board and herself to look at social justice issues and give people what they need. Working collectively with City staff will make a positive difference, and she is honored to have this opportunity. The Councilmembers conveyed the benefit of having Ms. Coogan's energy, experience and commitment on the Equity and Diversity Commission and thanked her for coming forward to serve in this capacity. *MOTION CARRIED 7 -0. b. Confirm the reappointment of Thong Ung to Position #6 on the Equity and Diversity Commission, with a term expiring 7/31/18. Mayor Ekberg announced that Mr. Ung has withdrawn his application due to education - related commitments. The Mayor will put forward another recommendation for re- appointment at a future meeting. c. Confirm the appointment of Dat Tran to Position #9 on the Equity and Diversity Commission, with a term expiring 7/31/18. MOVED BY KRULLER, SECONDED BY QUINN TO CONFIRM THE APPOINTMENT OF DAT TRAN TO POSITION #9 ON THE EQUITY AND DIVERSITY COMMISSION, WITH A TERM EXPIRING 7/31/18.* Mr. Tran explained that he is working on his doctorate in organizational leadership and is employed as the Manager of the Orthopedics and Spine Department at St. Joseph's Hospital in Tacoma. He is pleased to join the Equity and Diversity Commission to assist in creating a diverse, inclusive, respectful community. The Councilmembers expressed that Mr. Tran's background and commitment will be of great benefit to the Equity and Diversity Commission and thanked him for his willingness to serve. *MOTION CARRIED 7 -0. CITIZEN COMMENTS There were no citizen comments. CONSENT AGENDA a. Approval of Minutes: 10/17/16 (Regular); 10/24/16 (Special) b. Approval of Vouchers #373372 - #373379; #373490; #160900, 161004 - 161006 in the amount of $2,446,279.08. MOVED BY DUFFIE, SECONDED BY QUINN TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS SUBMITTED. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0. Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes November 7, 2016 Page 5 of 6 REPORTS a. Mayor Mayor Ekberg is currently serving jury duty and is proud to provide this essential service b. City Council Council President Duffie offered a reminder regarding the November 10, 2016 Veterans Day event at the Tukwila Community Center at 10:00 a.m. Councilmember Hougardy reported that staff from King County Metro Transit will be touring the City on November 8, 2016. Additionally, the City will be applying to be considered for Metro pilot projects. Councilmember Quinn attended the October 26, 2016 King County CDBG (Community Development Block Grant) Joint Recommendations Committee. He distributed the 2017 State Legislative Priorities from the meeting, referencing items 4, 5, and 7 specifically. Item #4, titled "Source of Income Discrimination," involves those being denied or asked to leave their homes because they receive housing subsidies. The City of Renton is experiencing this situation and the CAP (Community Affairs and Parks Committee) will be discussing this issue. Item #5, titled "Support Local Tools for Affordable Housing Preservation," involves the serious deficit in housing stock and the impacts on those who rely on affordable housing. Item #7, titled "Preserve the Housing and Essential Needs Program," involves the provision of rental and utility assistance statewide to disabled adults and is an important part of King County's efforts to end homelessness. The City of Tukwila is seeing a rapid increase in seniors being able to maintain their homes, requiring more frequent use of the City's Minor Home Repair Program. These are important issues that will require ongoing vigilance by the City. Councilmember Kruller reported that the City's food bank, the Tukwila Pantry, is doing well and undergoing change. There are openings on the Board, and she suggested that those interested contact the Executive Director at the Pantry. Additionally, the Sound Cities Association (SCA) has closed their applications for Boards and Commissions. The 29 cities that encompass SCA have a strong voice in the region on issues of mutual interest. Ms. Kruller referenced the recent positive outcomes for the State's professional and college sports teams. c. Staff David Cline, City Administrator, referenced the City Administrator (CA) Report in the packet and offered to answer any questions. d. City Attorney There was no report. e. Intergovernmental There was no report. Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes November 7, 2016 Page 6 of 6 EXECUTIVE SESSION - Potential Property Acquisition and Potential Property Sale — Pursuant to RCW 42.30.11 0(1)(b) and (c) -45minutes Mayor Ekberg announced that the Council will now go into Executive Session to discuss Potential Property Acquisition and Potential Property Sale — Pursuant to RCW 42.30.11 0(1)(b) and (c). It will last no more than 45 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. The Executive Session will be conducted in the Hazelnut Conference Room, so the Council Chambers can be made ready for the Budget Work Session. 7:54 p.m. The Mayor and Councilmembers exited the Council Chambers to go to the Hazelnut Conference Room. Executive Session Start: 7:55 p.m. Attendees: Allan Ekbopg, Mayor; David C|ine, City Administrator; Raohe|Turpin. City Attorney; Derek Speck, Economic Development Administrator; Counci|membersOuffie. Robertann, Sea[ Hougardy. Quinn, KruUer and McLeod. Executive Session End: 8.-18 p.m. 8:21 p.m. Mayor Ekberg reconvened the Regular Meeting. ADJOURNMENT 8:21 p.m. UNANIMOUS CONSENSUS EXISTED TO ADJOURN THE REGULAR MEETING TO CONDUCT SPECIAL BUDGET WORK SESSION. Chhstv[}'Fkahd-Ry.Cit—yC|ork APPROVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL: 11/21M6 AVAILABLE ON CITY VVEBS|TE: 11/22/16