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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2016-11-14 Committee of the Whole MinutesTukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Meeting City Hall Council Chambers November 14, 2016 — 7:00 P.M. MINUTES COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE CALL TO ORDER/PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Council President Duffie called the Tukwila City Council meeting to order at 7:09 p.m. and led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. OFFICIALS Present were Joe Duffie, Council President; Councilmembers Dennis Robertson, Verna Seal, Kathy Hougardy, De'Sean Quinn, Kate Kruller, Thomas McLeod. CITY OFFICIALS Allan Ekberg, Mayor; David Cline, City Administrator; Bob Giberson, Public Works Director; Peggy McCarthy, Finance Director; Vicky Carlsen, Deputy Finance Director; Rachel Bianchi, Communications and Government Relations Manager; Derek Speck, Economic Development Administrator; Gail Labanara, Public Works Analyst; Stephanie Brown - Smith, Human Resources Director; Joseph Todd, Technology and Innovation Services Director; Rick Still, Parks and Recreation Director; Jack Pace, Department of Community Development Director; Bruce Linton, Deputy Police Chief; Barbara Saxton, Administrative Support Coordinator; Laurel Humphrey, Council Analyst; Francesca Siegler, Deputy City Clerk. CITIZEN COMMENTS Brooke Alford, 4724 S. 122nd Street, requested that Tukwila make an official statement reaffirming our City's policy of inclusivity. She expressed concern for the intolerance experienced around the country. Ms. Alford voiced her desire for City leadership to be vigilant, act to restore well -being in the community and consider a course of positive action. Pat Larson, 14244 55th Ave. So., expressed the importance of having the School Resource Officer program at Foster High School, which creates a bridge in the community. Ms. Larson expressed appreciation for Officer Adam Balcom, Police Chief Villa and Deputy Police Chief Linton for their support and positive involvement with the school program. Maria Abrego, 16311 47th PI. S., spoke as a student representative from Foster High School, describing the student's afternoon march from Foster High School to Tukwila City Hall. The students' message to the City is one of unity, stating "United We Stand, Divided We Fall ". Ms. Abrego explained they would like attention focused on many points including the desire of residents to feel safe, educating residents on legal rights, assistance with immigration law, being a non - gentrifying community and creating affordable housing for low- income families. Daniel Humkey, 13213 32nd Ave So., spoke as a student representative from Foster High School. He expressed the intent of the student walk -out was to create a safe and inclusive city for all residents. Mr. Humkey shared that even though Tukwila is more inclusive and accepting than other cities, we still need to focus on making Tukwila safe for individual expression. Councilmember Seal proposed that a draft resolution of inclusivity be created to address many points in the email Councilmembers had received on behalf of the student group. The Councilmembers were unanimous in expressing gratitude to the students of Foster High School for sharing their heart -felt message with the City. The Councilmembers expressed support of an inclusiveness -based resolution and encouraged continued student dialogue into the future. Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes November 14, 2016 Page 2 of 8 Dennis Martinez, 4660 South 160th, shared that it is National Apprenticeship week. He described his experience as an estimator and union pipe fitter. He feels there is a large need for skilled construction workers in the workforce and urged residents and students to think of construction as a career. His message and advice to students is to stay involved and find a good cause to be involved in. a. Tax levy legislation: 1. An ordinance levying the general taxes for the fiscal year commencing January 1, 2017; and 2. An ordinance relating to the limiting factor for the regular property tax levy above the rate of inflation (Implicit Price Deflator); and 3. An ordinance increasing the regular levy from the previous year on all property, both real and personal, by 1% commencing January 1, 2017. 7:40 p.m. Council President Duffie opened the public hearing. Vicky Carlsen, Deputy Finance Director, explained the tax legislation for the 2017 fiscal year. These ordinances include setting the levy rate and a change in regular taxes from this year to last year. She explained that since the implicit price deflator was under 1 %, a third ordinance is needed this year that reflects the substantial need. Ms. Carlsen added that based on our bond issue proposal for this and next year, the tax ordinance includes a 47 -cent excess levy to pay the bonds back starting next year. Since this is an estimate, once the bonds are sold, there may be a need to return in December for an amendment if the tax levy slightly changes. Council President Duffie called for public comments There were no public comments. b. Budget legislation: 1. An ordinance amending Ordinance No. 2458, which adopted the biennial budget for the 2015 -2016 biennium, to adopt an amended year -end budget; and 2. An ordinance adopting the biennial budget for the 2017 -2018 biennium; and 3. A resolution adopting the 2017 -2022 Financial Planning Model and the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for general government and the City's enterprise funds. Ms. Carlsen explained there are two ordinances and a resolution involved in the budget legislation. The ordinance amending the 2015 -2016 budget has been brought to Council Committees or the City Council throughout the year. The results of the proposed amendments eliminate the budgeted General Fund drawdown and keep department budgets within expenditures. The second piece of budget legislation is an ordinance adopting the 2017 -2018 proposed budget. This ordinance incorporates the Council's priorities and has been reviewed at multiple meetings and Council workshops. The final budget item is a resolution adopting the 2017 -2022 Financial Planning Model and Capital Improvement Program. Council President Duffie called for public comments There were no public comments. 7:44 p.m. Council President Duffie closed the public hearing. SPECIAL ISSUES a. Tax levy legislation: 1. An ordinance levying the general taxes for the fiscal year commencing January 1, 2017; and 2. An ordinance relating to the limiting factor for the regular property tax levy above the rate of inflation (Implicit Price Deflator); and Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes November 14, 2016 Page 3 of 8 3. An ordinance increasing the regular levy from the previous year on all property, both real and personal, by 1% commencing January 1, 2017. Councilmember Seal indicated these three ordinances, as described by Ms. Carlsen, did not go through the Council Committee process. She authorized them to move forward to the full Council. Councilmember Robertson stated this is a standard ordinance reviewed every year. He sees no variations from previous years and supports the legislation. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THESE ITEMS TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. b. Budget legislation: 1. An ordinance amending Ordinance No. 2458, which adopted the biennial budget for the 2015 -2016 biennium, to adopt an amended year -end budget. Councilmember Seal indicated these items were discussed at the Finance and Safety Committee meeting on November 8, 2016. The committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. Peggy McCarthy, Finance Director, discussed the budget amendment ordinance, which is a standard procedure each year. The budget amendments are proposed for several reasons: • Reduce the currently budgeted drawdown of the General Fund through departmental under - expenditures and increased revenue. • Add budget for departments or funds experiencing higher than expected costs. For 2016, an adjustment is proposed for the Technology and Innovation Services Department, the Recreation Department and three funds. • Adjust budgeted beginning fund balance to reflect 2015 actuals. • Add budget for revenue - backed expenditures such as grants and reimbursable services. • Add budget for carryover items budgeted in one year but expended in the current year. • Add budget for new initiatives, which is the budget for the Technology and Innovation Services initiative approved by Council in October. The proposed amendments were categorized into four groups. Ms. McCarthy referred to pages 18 and 19 of the agenda packet for information on the categorized amendments by fund and department. The four groups discussed included Existing Service Levels and Plans, Revenue backed, Carryovers and Initiatives. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. 2. An ordinance adopting the biennial budget for the 2017 -2018 biennium. 3. A resolution adopting the 2017 -2022 Financial Planning Model and the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for general government and the City's enterprise funds. Councilmember Seal stated these items were reviewed at the Finance and Safety Committee. She explained the committee members reviewed the language in the ordinance, which is the way it moved out of Committee. Councilmember Robertson proposed an addition to the Parks and Recreation Department budget. Referring to a memo distributed at tonight's meeting, Mr. Robertson discussed a proposed budget increase to implement use of reclaimed water for irrigating the golf course, as opposed to pumping water out of the river, which can be detrimental to salmon. The proposed change would create a placeholder of $100,000 per year for the next two years. The placeholder would be used to pay King County for the reclaimed water, the conversion equipment, and any extra labor costs. In response to a question from Councilmember Hougardy regarding the funding, Councilmember Robertson responded the money would come from the ending fund balance. Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes November 14, 2016 Page 4 of 8 Councilmember Hougardy suggested the proposal be discussed through the Council Committee process and then discussed as a budget amendment in 2017. While supportive, Councilmember Kruller spoke about issues raised by Tukwila staff during a tour of the King County Water Reclamation Plant. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO MOVE THIS ITEM FORWARD TO THE NEXT COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING FOR CONTINUED DISCUSSION. 8:38 p.m. Councilmember Seal exited the Council Chambers. 8:39 p.m. Councilmember Seal returned to the Council Chambers. 8:39 p.m. Councilmember Quinn exited the Council Chambers. 8:40 p.m. Councilmember Quinn returned to the Council Chambers. c. An ordinance authorizing the issuance of Unlimited Tax General Obligation Bonds to finance costs related to the Public Safety Plan. Councilmember Seal stated this item was not brought to the Finance and Safety Committee. She asked that the item be brought forward to the full Council for discussion. Peggy McCarthy, Finance Director, explained the Council is being asked to approve an ordinance authorizing the issuance of up to $36.5 million in unlimited tax general obligation bonds for the Public Safety Plan. On July 18, 2016, the Council authorized placement of the $77,385,000 Public Safety Plan bond measure on the November 8, 2016 ballot. This ordinance authorizes the 2016 issuance of up to $36.5 million of unlimited tax general obligation bonds, the proceeds of which will fund planned expenditures for 2017, 2018 and half of 2019. The election results to date indicate the measure is passing, and election results will be officially certified on November 29, 2016. The bond issue is sized at $36.5 million to provide sufficient funds for the first 2 -%Z years of expenditures, to lock in the interest rate and to smooth the debt service and levy rate over multiple years. Ms. McCarthy introduced the City's bond counsel, Deanna Gregory, and financial advisor Duncan Brown. Deanna Gregory, a Partner from Pacifica Law Group, provided an overview of their responsibilities as the City's bond counsel. She explained the draft ordinance to be considered by the Councilmembers on November 21, 2016 is the only official action the Council will take towards the issuance of the bonds. The ordinance authorizes the issuance of the bonds in the amount of not to exceed $36.5 million. Furthermore, the ordinance delegates the authority to approve the final bond terms to the Finance Director as stated in Section 12 of the draft ordinance. Duncan Brown, the City's financial advisor from Public Financial Management Group, used a PowerPoint presentation to explain their recommendations for the bond sale timing. Key factors as described in the presentation include the plan expenditures for facilities, timing considerations, important financing dates, and a market update. Councilmember Robertson and Councilmember Quinn asked questions to clarify the plan expenditures and to highlight key milestone dates to ensure the information interpreted is correct. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. 8:42 p.m. Councilmember McLeod exited the Council Chambers. 8:44 p.m. Councilmember McLeod returned to the Council Chambers. Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes November 14, 2016 Page 5 of 8 d. A resolution adopting a new Public Works fee schedule. Councilmember Hougardy stated this item was discussed at the Utilities Committee meeting on October 25, 2016. The Committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. She explained that the City's water and sewer systems serve a portion of the city; however, all residents have the Tukwila surface water rates. Gail Labanara, Public Works Analyst, explained the rate increases for 2017 and 2018. Cascade Water Alliance's wholesale water rates are proposed to increase. The City's single and multi - family residents proposed base rate increases to $17.00 in 2017 and $18.00 in 2018. Ms. Labanara shared that since our water conservation efforts have increased, our consumption levels have decreased by 6 %. King County has a 5.2% rate increase in sewage disposal fees in 2017 and has no increase proposed for 2018. Tukwila's sewer base rate will not have an increase in 2017, but does have an increase scheduled in 2018. Tukwila's surface water base rate is scheduled for an increase in 2017 and 2018. The City's rate will increase to $171.00 in 2017 and to $176.00 in 2018 per residential parcel. Ms. Labanara explained the Automatic Meter Reading Program from Puget Sound Energy. The new pole attachment fee would allow franchise holders to attach to the City -owned poles. The new rates for use of conduits and fiber optic cables is a condition of an agreement similar to the King County Metro Rapid Ride agreement approved in 2013. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. e. A contract supplement for the Tukwila 205 Levee. Councilmember Hougardy explained this item was discussed at the Utility Committee meeting on October 25, 2016. The Committee members were unanimous in recommending approval to move forward for Council discussion. Bob Giberson, Public Works Director, explained that Northwest Hydraulic Consultants was selected to provide Phase Two levee certification which will provide documentation that the levee meets minimum federal standards. This certification allows FEMA to map the protected area outside of the 100 -year floodplain. The results of the Phase One study revealed the levee does not meet minimum freeboard requirements in 14 segments and embankment, foundation, and stability issues were present. Phase Two will review the areas identified in Phase One, collect additional site information, develop alternatives for correcting the deficiencies, and provide cost estimates. Mr. Giberson responded to Councilmember Robertson's question to clarify that this supplement is in relation to the storm water utility. The City will receive further engineering analysis as part of Phase Two. Staff has not started the conceptual design and will wait to for information based on this next phase before commencing the conceptual project level design. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. f. A contract supplement for the 42nd Avenue South Phase III Project. Councilmember Robertson said this item was discussed at the Transportation Committee meeting on November 7, 2016 and the Committeemembers were unanimous in recommending approval for Council discussion. He explained this project is to combine the 42nd Avenue South roadway improvement and the Gilliam Creek culvert replacement project. Project issues include compliance with the City's Sensitive Areas regulations and the need to mitigate stream location. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes November 14, 2016 g. A resolution amending the Financial Planning Model policies. Page 6 of 8 Councilmember Seal said this item was discussed at the Finance and Safety Committee meeting on October 18, 2016 and the Committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. She discussed the City's financial policies relating to the Financial Planning Model and other General Financial Policies. Following the Committee's review, language was added to the Policy to clarify expectations. The additional language states, "GF -5: Funds exceeding the Mayor's allocated signature authority shall not be moved between City departments without prior approval of the City Council." Councilmember Robertson and Councilmember Quinn added that this policy is about how we allocate money between departments and the future ability to make adjustments. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. h. A resolution related to the cost -of- living adjustment (COLA) for non - represented employees. This item was reviewed at the Finance and Safety Committee meeting on November 8, 2016 and was forwarded with majority approval. Stephanie Brown- Smith, Human Resources Director, explained that in 2013 the Council adopted Resolution No. 1796 establishing a compensation policy for employees. The resolution outlines that in odd numbered years non - represented employees are provided a cost of living adjustment. The COLA is based on 90% of the Seattle- Tacoma - Bremerton Area Consumer Price Index (CPI -W). For 2016, the CPI -W was 2.0 %, and the COLA for non - represented employees for 2017 would be 1.8 %. The proposed COLA would be reflected within the proposed 2017 -2018 City budget. A review of Resolution No. 1796 in 2017 would include the overview of current compensation trends, policy review of comparable cities and any other issues deemed appropriate through discussion. The Councilmembers were unanimous in the decision to continue the discussion regarding compensation policies in the first quarter 2017. Councilmember Kruller expressed the need for a transparent process while reviewing the framework and approach. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. i. Developer selection for motel site. Derek Speck, Economic Development Administrator, explained that in 2014 and 2015, the City purchased four motel properties on Tukwila International Boulevard to reduce crime and revitalize the neighborhood. In 2016, the buildings were demolished and the land is now vacant. At the time of the acquisition, the City planned to sell the properties and the sale is currently planned to occur in 2018. The City recently received letters from El Centro de la Raza and HealthPoint expressing interest in purchasing the properties. Both organizations have expressed a desire to seek funding for their proposed developments from Washington State in the 2017 -2018 biennium. If the Council approves a development selection process, staff would invite statements of interest from all organizations. Council President Duffle called for citizen comments. Sharon Mann, 4452 South 160 St., feels the City does not need more low income housing and does not support the current proposed development along the Boulevard. Ms. Mann expressed that new housing development increases a need for more public support services. The two developers, HealthPoint and El Centro, do offer services, however, those specific services should not be provided by taxpayers. She feels the boulevard is the heart of the City and becomes the reflection of Tukwila. Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes November 14, 2016 Page 7 of 8 Brooke Alford, 4724 S. 122nd St., expressed excitement for the proposals providing services, economic development, and affordable housing. The proposals would allow residents to stay closer to their jobs and families. She is impressed with the services of the proposed developers and believes Tukwila can have employment, residential, and services to design a vibrant and inclusive community. Dennis Martinez, 4660 South 160th St., explained how people are wanting more transparency and he does not feel the safety bond provided enough clarity. The public assumed a fire station or the justice center would be built on those properties. Mr. Martinez shared his confidence in El Centro and feels both organizations are good. He also expressed a desire to see a veterans residence in Tukwila. 9:38 p.m. Councilmember Hougardy exited the Council Chambers. 9:39 p.m. Councilmember Hougardy returned to the Council Chambers. The Councilmembers were unanimous in favor of the two proposals. They look forward to the continued exploratory process as more proposals are presented to the City. Councilmember Kruller shared the need for all to be open- minded on the opportunism of more proposals and developers to see what would be best for Tukwila. Tukwila is an inclusive community and the building should reflect those values. Councilmember Hougardy explained there was discussion at the Community Affairs and Parks Committee meeting earlier this evening regarding the option to use the land for the City. Ms. Hougardy explained language would be added to the Request for Proposals (RFP) to include the right to hold the land if logical for City use. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. REPORTS a. Mayor Mayor Ekberg reported that he met with Foster High School students in front of City Hall this afternoon. The students came to the City Hall parking lot to express their desire to ensure that Tukwila remains an inclusive and tolerant community. The City's 2nd annual Veterans Day celebration was conducted on November 101h and the Museum of Flight ceremony to thank veterans for their services was held on November 11th b. City Council Councilmember Seal reported that she hosted the Council Coffee Chat on November 12, 2016. She also participated in a National League of Cities webinar titled "Election 2016: What the Results Mean for Cities ". The webinar included information on infrastructure and transportation, changes to flood insurance and progrowth. Ms. Seal provided information regarding her involvement with the "Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals" (DACA) program and stated she has shared this information on immigration issues with high school counselors and other groups and organizations. Council President Duffie thanked the Mayor, Deputy Police Chief Bruce Linton and Officer Todd Rossi for their participation and organizational assistance at the November 101h Veterans Day event at the Tukwila Community Center. On November 11, 2016, Mr. Duffie attended the Museum of Flight Veterans Day event and thanked all of those involved with making this a success. Councilmember Hougardy participated in a tour of Tukwila with King County Metro staff members on November 8, 2016 and explained that Tukwila will submit an application for an alternative services pilot project. On November 9, 2016, she attended the Veterans Day assembly at Tukwila Elementary School and the City Council Budget Work Session. On November 10, 2016, she participated in the Veterans Day event and a King County Regional Transit Committee meeting. Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes November 14, 2016 Page 8 of 8 Councilmember Quinn attended the Puget Sound Regional Council meeting on economic development on November 8, 2016 and the City of Tukwila Veterans Day event on November 10, 2016. Councilmember Kruller shared her report from Cascadia Rising. On November 9, 2016, she attended the City Council Budget Work Session and Sound Cities Association Public Issues Committee. On November 10, 2016, she attended the Puget Sound Regional Council Transportation Policy Board meeting. She also attended both Veterans Day events in the City. She reported that on December 13, 2016, there will be a Holiday Dessert Potluck for the Tukwila International Boulevard Action Committee at Valley View Sewer District offices. Councilmember McLeod shared his gratitude to the Tukwila Fire Department and Engine 53 and 54. On November 12, 2016, they came to his aid due to a car accident. c. Staff There was no report. d. City Attorney The City Attorney's presence is not required at Committee of the Whole meetings. e. Intergovernmental Laurel Humphrey, Council Analyst, referenced Councilmember Quinn's mention of the National Anthem at the Veterans Day event. Alex Zuniga, an 8th grader at Showalter Middle School, beautifully performed the National Anthem at that event. ADJOURNMENT 10:15 p.m. COUNCIL PRESIDENT DUFFIE DECLARED THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING ADJOURNED. e Duffie, Council P dfit Francesca Siegler, Deputy City Clerk APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT: 12/7/16 AVAILABLE ON THE CITY WEBSITE: 12/8/16