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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2017-07-10 Committee of the Whole MinutesTukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Meeting. City Hall Council Chambers July 10.20i7-7:00p.m. MINUTES COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE CALL TO ORDER/PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Council President Robertson called the Tukwila City Council meeting to order at7:O1 p.m. and led the audience in the Pledge ofAllegiance. OFFICIALS Present were Council President Dennis Robertson; Counci|nlembens Joe Duffie, DeSean Quinn, Kate KruUer. Thomas McLeod. Counci|member Seal and Counoi|memborHougardy were not present. CITY OFFICIALS Allan Ekberg, K8ayor� David C|ine, City Administrator; Rachel Bianchi, Communications and Government Relations Manager; JayVWttwer, Fire Chief; Rick KAih:heU, Acting Deputy Police Chief; Bob Giberson, Public Works Director; K8ia Novono, Community Engagement Manager; Laurel Humphrey, Council Analyst-, AndyYoun. Deputy City Clerk; Barbara Saxhzn, Administrative Support Coordinator. PUBLIC COMMENTS Tim KAurphy, 16045 48th Avenue S, thanked the Council for their service. Mc Murphy stated that the City of Tukwila still has a reputation of being an undesirable city to live in, making it difficult ho attract new residents. Mr. Murphy noted that several houses seem to be recurring pnob|eme, and may need stronger enforcement. Mr. Murphy shared the idea of community redevelopment corporation p|an, in which cities buy proportioa, rednve|op, then sell them. He would like to see an improvement in Tukwi|a's reputation and public perception as a desirable city 10 live in. Counui|mombe/ Quinn thanked Mr. Murphy for his support ofthe City and for bringing forward his innovative idea nfa community redevelopment corporation. RnbertNeuffer. 13813 37th Avenue S., noted that the lower median income of Tukwila affects property va|ues, and the City has more than its share of lower and moderate income housing. He expressed that he is not in favor of giving more tools to the police or perks staff in order to enforce trespassing laws. He expressed concern about an incident in June in which Immigration and Customs Enforcement pulled over awoman ataTukwila MoDona|ds. and later declared the incident a mistake. He feels the City should make it clear to the federal government that we do not want mistakes in our community and take a stronger stance against the increasing incidence of deportations of undocumented individuals. Thomas Muatheng, 4028 146th Street, shared that he has spoken with Counci|memberDuffiaand Councilmember McLeod about the safety of two particular intersections in Tukwila: Tukwila International Boulevard (T|B) and South 144th Streat, and the northwest corner of Tukwila International Boulevard and South I 54th Street. He expressed that these intersections do not seem to be designed with pedestrian safety in mind, and provided suggestions to improve the safety of the intersections in question. He has had several close calls and has also been lightly tapped at the TIB and 154th Street intersection. He would like to see changes that make the City more friendly and safe for pedestrians with sensory and physical disabi|itios, and that the City continue to make investments that provide greater safety for residents. Counci|m*mber Kru||erthanked Mr. Muetheng for sharing his experiences and agreed that these intersections can be dangerous for pedestrians. She has hoard similar concerns about pedestrian safety at both intersections. Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes July 10, 2017 Page 2 of 6 Councilmember Kruller stated the City is working on revitalization plans for Tukwila International Boulevard. The City has received grants and completed studies, with the end goal to make the City more walkable through additional traffic calming processes. Councilmember McLeod noted that he met Mr. Muetheng at the library and encouraged him to come speak to the full Council, and has shared his concerns with Bob Giberson, Director of Public Works. Mr. McLeod noted an additional concern is that pedestrians are having difficulty maneuvering around the construction material near the intersection of TIB and South 144th Street. Bob Giberson, Public Works Director, confirmed they would bring Mr. Muetheng's concerns to the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. He also noted the intersection of TIB and South 154th Street is owned by the City of SeaTac. He stated he would work with Mr. Muetheng on the appropriate contacts regarding that intersection. SPECIAL ISSUES a. Review and discussion of fire station location study. Councilmember McLeod indicated this item was discussed at the Public Safety Committee meeting on June 26, 2017. The committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. Jay Wittwer, Fire Chief, utilized a PowerPoint presentation to provide an overview of the fire station location study completed through FACETS Consulting. The City of Tukwila contracted FACETS Consulting to provide the City with information and a recommendation to identify the proper sites for the new fire stations associated with the Public Safety Plan. The methodology for the study included interviews with over 70 stakeholders in Tukwila, benchmarking with national standards, and a detailed geographical information system (GIS) analysis. Based on this GIS analysis, the locations with the best coverage related to equitable response times citywide and effective firefighting forces to mitigate all- hazards incidents are: • Fire Station 51 — 180th St. and Southcenter Parkway. • Fire Station 52 — 65th Ave. S., N. of Southcenter Blvd. • Fire Station 53 — 4202 South 115th Street (not relocating or being rebuilt) • Fire Station 54 — 4237 South 144th Street (will remain at current site) The question of the appropriate location for fire department headquarters is a policy question for the City. The consultants believe that headquarters should be near City Hall at the new Station 52 location. Mr. Wittwer provided a brief explanation of the maps used in the PowerPoint • Map 1 shows a five -year history of the Tukwila Fire Department's call volume. • Map 2 shows the Tukwila Fire Department's 4- minute travel time • Map 3 shows the proposed locations of four fire stations Mr. Wittwer also referenced the map on page 64 of the agenda packet, showing the historical 10- minute travel time from each of the current stations, which was created by the consultants at the request of Council President Robertson. Mr. Wittwer noted this study is very comprehensive and is available to the Council to use as a tool as they interact with constituents; many of the questions asked by residents and members of the community can be answered through the section titled "burning questions" in the study. Councilmember McLeod requested clarification on the methodology used to determine the number of stations needed by the City, and why the consultants recommended 4 stations as opposed to 3 stations. Mr. Wittwer referenced page 33 of the study (page 57 of the agenda packet), and explained the City has many challenges related to its unique shape and its topography including freeways, rivers, hills, and the Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes July 10.2O17 Page 3 of 6 railroad. As a result, Tukwila requires four stations to meet National Fire Protection Association service Councilmember McLeod noted that the study is driven by data and not subjective. Councilmember Quinn asked for information on the ISO (Insurance Service Office) rating system and how that factored into the evaluation, as well as the diversity of the people that were interviewed for the study. Mr. Wittwer stated the consultants engaged community members at the Open House at fire station 54. They also spoke to business owners, and members of the Tukwila Fire Department, ranging in years of experience. Mr. Wittwer explained the Insurance Service Office has a nationwide rating system, but the state of Washington uses its own rating system through the Washington State Surveying and Rating Bureau. The requirements for both rating systems are idendca|, therefore, the two systems are comparable. The City of Tukwila has a rating of 3, which is exceptional. There are 14 communities in Washington State with a rating of 2. Mr. Wittwer expressed that as Fire Chief, he places greater importance on travel time, as well as whether the Fire Department has the tools and the knowledge available to address emergencies. Mr. VVittwerexpreseod confidence in the Fire Department's ability to respond to emergencies, and stated the Council and community have been very supportive of the Fire Department. Mr. VVithwara|so shared that the Tukwila Fire Department responds to many regional emergencies in neighboring jurisdictions. Councilmember Kruller asked if any further community outreach is planned. She noted it would be beneficial to have a community meeting to hear feedback from residents, as the fire stations may have impacts such as transfer ofnoise in neighborhoods. W1o. KruUeraeked for clarification on the longevity of the fire stations. She noted that page 34 of the study (page 58 of the agenda packet) describes the life cycle as 30 years, whereas the life cycle has previously been stated as 50 years. Mr. Wittwer clarified this study is primarily for siting purposes, and the lifespan of the stations would be a policy decision of the Council. He noted fire stations are typically operational beyond 30 yeera, and the planning process ia aiming for 5U years, which would beideal. b. Overview of Public Safety Plan site selection progress. Rachel Bianohi, Communications and Government Relations Manager, introduced D.J. Baxter, Consultant with Shiels Obletz Johnsen (SOJ). Ms. Bianchi explained that the project management team is seeking consensus from the Council regarding the process and timeline associated with the selection of Mr. Baxter stated the screening criteria previously approved by the Council is being used to evaluate a large inventory ofpotential ekoa. He stated they will return to the Council in August and September with results as they narrow down the aa|eotion, and to ask for direction on key sites. He also noted they continue to meet with the Siting Advisory Committee. Ms. Bianchi noted that the August 10, 2017 Open House will be an opportunity for the public to provide feedback regarding the siting process and search areas. She referenced a map on page 109 of the agenda packet, showing the zones of areas where the project management team is focusing their search. Councilmember Duffie expressed that he appreciated the inclusion of citizens in the siting process. He encouraged citizens to come forward with comments and concerns. Councilmember Quinn noted that the schedule of dates did not represent any final decisions, and that it represented the process of informing and engaging the public, as well as reporting to the Council as requested on different milestones for consideration. In response to questions about the map of the search area, Ms. Bianchi they are asking for Council consensus on the process and proposed timeline for the site selection process. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED ON THE PROPOSED SCHEDULE AND PROCESS. Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes July 1U.2U17 Page 4of0 u. Update on Public Safety Plan Open House. Mia Navarro, Community Engagement Manager, utilized a PowerPoint presentation to provide the Council with information regarding the outreach schedule and engagement methods forthaupoorning Public Safety Plan Open House. August Public Safety Plan Open House: • In-person Open House on August 1U.2O17 from 53O-73UPyWat Fire Station 54 • Online open house, which will be translated into several languages • Ice cream social, children's activities • Fine. Police, Public Works equipment on display • General progress and timeline update • Meet the Architects • Fire Station Location Study • Map with shaded areas for possible sites for fire stations, justice center, and shops Outreach and Engagement Methods: • F|yehng (week nf July 17) • Community Connectors • Postcards • Posters • E-Hazelnut • Social Media . • Citywebei0a • Community groups and meetings • Tukwila Reporter The Councilmembers; provided comments and asked clarifying questions related to the August Open House: • How many languages will the online Open House be translated into? Ms. Navarro stated there would be at least a dozen languages, representing the most popular languages in the city. • Why is the Open House scheduled during a weekday and during the evening? Ms. Navarro shared that some key considerations determined the selection of the day and time. She noted that Thursday, August 10, 2017, had the lowest number of community schedule conflicts. In addition, the committee varied the day and time compared to the Open House in March to reach a wider range ofpeople. • Why was Station 54 selected as the location for the Open House? Ms. Bianchi stated the committee selected Station 54 for its accessibility to those residents who use public transportation. Councilmember McLeod thanked the community engagement team for their part in disseminating this information to the public. He also noted that there would be an additional Open House in the ha||, and further opportunities for community engagement and feedback from the public. Counci|nnemberC}uinn emphasized the importance of ensuring the citizen voice is heard, and noted that the Public Safety Plan contains highly important decisions that critically impact residents of the community. Mr. Quinn would like to see the community engagement team track the most effective tactics for achieving a high turnout and incorporate those measures into future decisions to reach as many people aspossible. Cuunoi|member Duffie thanked Ms. Navarro and expressed that it was the responsibility of the Council to continue encouraging the public to participate in these public processes. Councilmember Kruller requested information on what community groups would be contacted during the outreach efforts. Kxa. Navarro stated she would provide that information to the Council. Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes July 1O.2U17 Page 5of0 REPORTS a. Mayor Mayor Ekberg was present at the Family Fourth event at the Fort on July 4.2O17.He reported that hwas well attended and thanked Councilmembers for attending. Mayor Ekberg also attended the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe Canoe Blessing Ceremony at the Duvvomiah Gardens on July O.2U17.C>n July 8.281l Mayor Ekberg participated in the KaBOOyW| playground build work party at Cascade View Park. He also visited o work party at the Tukwila Historical SVciety, which is building o new garden to honor Louise Stnander, one of the founding members of the Tukwila Historical Society. b' City Council Councilmember Duffie has received several comments from citizens regarding firecrackers being used in the neighborhoods until daylight. He noted that the Mayor has received a letter with complaints about fireworks. Councilmember Quinn was present at the Family Fourth event at the Fort on July 4, 2017. He reported seeing barbecues at the event, and is interested in how the City can mitigate that interest while reducing hazards and clean-up for the City. WY/. Quinn also commented on the number ofcomplaints he received from residents about firecracker noise continuing until 2:00 a.m. Mr. Quinn attended the KoB[>{)M| playground build work party on July 8, 2017. He expressed that he saw a high level of partnerships and communication, and being involved in this experience was a great example of what makes a community stronger. Counni|monnber KruUarottended the KaBOOM| Playground build work party on July 8. 2017, which was sponsored by Foresters Financial. She noted that she was part of the mulch crew, which moved 242 cubic yards of mulch. KaB{}OK8'e philosophy on building community was evident. Councilmember McLeod was present at the Family Fourth event at the Fort on July 4, 2017, as well as the KaBOOK8| playground build work party on July 8, 2017. He commended Parks and Recreation staff for the events they hosted and sponsored and noted that both events were well organized. He also recognized the Police and Fire Departments for their work in ensuring public safety. c. Staff David C|ina, City Administnator, thanked the Parka and Recreation staff and other City departments for long hours worked during the recent events. He referenced the monthly report for the Public Safety Plan (page 127 of the agenda packet) and offered to answer questions. He stated that Jay Wittwer, Fire Chief, and Rick Mitchell, Acting Deputy Police Chief, were available to report on and answer questions on this year's fireworks emphasis. Council President Robertson noted the budget attachment referenced on page 128 of the agenda packet was not included. This information will be provided tothe Council. d. Council Analyst There was no report. MISCELLANEOUS Jay WiMmmr, Fire Chief, and Rick Mitchell, Acting Deputy Police Chief, stated that a memorandum was sent to the Mayor and Councilmembers, providing an overview of the results on this year's fireworks emphasis. To reduce the number of illegal fireworks this year and to enhance safety in neighborhoods, the Police and Fire Department partnered to conduct targeted education/enforcement on July 2 through July 4, 2017. Mr. Wittwer noted that the joint patrols were effective. He acknowledged that the number of fireworks going off was frustrating, and that by the time the patrols responded to calls, the act had already been committed and individuals were no longer in the area. Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes July 10, 2017 Page 6 of 6 Mr. Wittwer stated they responded to a call from a local business and found two individuals setting off bottle rockets. The individuals were given a warning. Mr. Mitchell stated that extra officers patrolled during July 2 through July 4, 2017. The Police Department was fully staffed that evening, including resources at Fort Dent. Calls for service for fireworks were consistent with other years, and lower than the number of calls fielded during 2016. A total of 60 calls were received during the period of July 2 through July 4, 2017. Locating the individuals who set off fireworks continues to be a challenge. The Police Department issued warnings and provided education on fireworks. Councilmember Kruller referenced the Valley Communications memorandum that was distributed to the Council; she noted that complaints had increased by 112% over 2016, and requested clarification on the higher volume of calls shown for 2017. She also asked for information on whether the Police and Fire Departments responded to any injuries. Mr. Mitchell clarified that the data shown in the Valley Communications memorandum is for all Valley Communications cities. Kent had 300 calls, for example; Tukwila had 46 calls. He also confirmed there were no reported injuries. 8:51 p.m. COUNCIL PRESIDENT ROBERTSON DECLARED THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING ADJOURNED. Den is Robertso , Council President Andy Youn, Deputy City Clerk APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL PRESIDENT: 07/19/17 AVAILABLE ON THE CITY WEBSITE: 07/20/17