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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-06-18 Regular MinutesTukwila City Council City Hall Council Chambers MINUTES REGULAR MEETING Regular Meeting June 18, 2018 — 7:00 RM. EXECUTIVE SESSION —Potential Litigation— Pursuant to RCW 42.30.110(1)(i) 90 minutes. Mayor Ekberg announced the Council will now go into Executive Session to discuss: Potential Litigation — Pursuant to RCW 42.30.110(1)(i) The discussion will last no more than 90 minutes, and no decisions will be made during the Executive Session. Executive Session Start: 5:30 p.m. Attendees: Mayor Ekberg; David Cline, City Administrator; Mike Kenyon, Attorney with Kenyon Disend; Kendra Comeau, Assistant City Attorney; Rachel Bianchi, Communications and Government Relations Manager; Laurel Humphrey, Council Analyst; Councilmembers Robertson, Seal, Hougardy, Quinn, Kruller, McLeod and Idan. Executive Session End: 6:50 p.m. CALL TO ORDER/PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE/ROLL CALL Mayor Ekberg called the Regular Meeting of the Tukwila City Council to order at 7:02 p.m. and led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. ROLL CALL Christy O'Flaherty, Records Governance Manager/City Clerk, called the roll of the Council. Present were Councilmembers Dennis Robertson, Kathy Hougardy, Verna Seal, De'Sean Quinn, Kate Kruller, Thomas McLeod, Zak Idan. CITY OFFICIALS Allan Ekberg, Mayor; David Cline, City Administrator; Kendra Comeau, Assistant City Attorney; Jay Wittwer, Fire Chief; Bruce Linton, Police Chief; Rick Mitchell, Deputy Police Chief; Jack Pace, Community Development Director; Rachel Bianchi, Communications and Government Relations Manager; Kimberly Walden, Municipal Court Judge; Trish Kinlow, Court Administrator; Brandon Miles, Business Relations Manager; Christy O'Flaherty, Records Governance Manager/City Clerk; Laurel Humphrey, Council Analyst. AGENDA AMENDMENT MOVED BY SEAL, SECONDED BY KRULLER TO AMEND THE AGENDA TO ADD AN ITEM UNDER NEW BUSINESS TITLED "SETTLEMENT AGREEMENTS." MOTION CARRIED 7-0. PROCLAMATIONS/APPOINTMENTS a. A proclamation recognizing the month of June 2018 as Pride Month. Mayor Ekberg read a proclamation recognizing June 2018 as Pride month in the City, encouraging all community residents to recognize that Tukwila is proud of the diversity of people that call our city home, including our LGBTQ neighbors and friends who benefit our community in countless ways. Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes June 18, 2018 Page 2 of 11 The Mayor presented the proclamation to Trina Cook, Police Information Analyst. Ms. Cook expressed thanks for this meaningful recognition toward the LGBTQ community. b. Appointments to the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC): (1) Reappoint Miesa Berry to Position #2 on the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee, with a term expiring 5/31/2019. MOVED BY ROBERTSON, SECONDED BY SEAL TO REAPPOINT MIESA BERRY TO POSITION #2 ON THE LODGING TAX ADVISORY COMMITTEE, WITH A TERM EXPIRING 5/31/2019. MOTION CARRIED 7-0. (2) Reappoint Jim Davis to Position #3 on the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee, with a term expiring 5/31/2019. MOVED BY HOUGARDY, SECONDED BY SEAL TO REAPPOINT JIM DAVIS TO POSITION #3 ON THE LODGING TAX ADVISORY COMMITTEE, WITH A TERM EXPIRING 5/31/2019. MOTION CARRIED 7-0. (3) Appoint Asia Wen to Position #4 on the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee, with a term expiring 5/31/2019. MOVED BY SEAL, SECONDED BY QUINN TO APPOINT ASIA WEN TO POSITION #4 ON THE LODGING TAX ADVISORY COMMITTEE, WITH A TERM EXPIRING 5/31/2019.* Ms. Wen relayed that her family acquired what was formerly America's Best Value on Interurban Avenue. The new name is Sunrise Garden Suites. Her experience is in digital marketing, and she hopes to bring expertise to the Lodging Tax Committee. *MOTION CARRIED 7-0. (4) Appoint Mike West to Position #5 on the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee, with a term expiring 5/31/2019. MOVED BY QUINN, SECONDED BY KRULLER TO APPOINT MIKE WEST TO POSITION #5 ON THE LODGING TAX ADVISORY COMMITTEE, WITH A TERM EXPIRING 5/31/2019. MOTION CARRIED 7-0. (5) Reappoint Ben Oliver to Position #6 on the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee, with a term expiring 5/31/2019. MOVED BY KRULLER, SECONDED BY QUINN TO REAPPOINT BEN OLIVER TO POSITION #6 ON THE LODGING TAX ADVISORY COMMITTEE, WITH A TERM EXPIRING 5/31/2019. MOTION CARRIED 7-0. (6) Reappoint Becky Smith to Position #7 on the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee, with a term expiring 5/31/2019. MOVED BY MCLEOD, SECONDED BY HOUGARDY TO REAPPOINT BECKY SMITH TO POSITION #7 ON THE LODGING TAX ADVISORY COMMITTEE, WITH A TERM EXPIRING 5/31/2019. MOTION CARRIED 7-0. (7) Reappoint Dan Lee to Position #8 on the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee, with a term expiring 5/31/2019. MOVED BY ROBERTSON, SECONDED BY KRULLER TO REAPPOINT DAN LEE TO POSITION #8 ON THE LODGING TAX ADVISORY COMMITTEE, WITH A TERM EXPIRING 5/31/2019. MOTION CARRIED 7-0. Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes June 18, 2018 Page 3 of 11 (8) Reappoint Ashley Messmer to Position #9 on the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee, with a term expiring 5/31/2019. MOVED BY IDAN, SECONDED BY ROBERTSON TO REAPPOINT ASHLEY MESSMER TO POSITION #9 ON THE LODGING TAX ADVISORY COMMITTEE, WITH A TERM EXPIRING 5/31/2019. MOTION CARRIED 7-0. Councilmember Hougardy, Chair of LTAC, welcomed new members Asia Wen and Mike West, and stated she looks forward to working with them and the rest of the committee. PUBLIC COMMENTS David Brown, 14722 58th Avenue South, extended thanks for recent encounters with the Police Department as it relates to parking issues in his area. Additionally, he thanked the Mayor and City Administrator for visiting his home as it relates to a 75 -foot tall dead tree in his neighbor's yard. He said he was told that since it is on private property, it is not something the City can cut down. From his perspective, if the City can restrict people's grass from being over 3+ feet, then legislation should be created that can restrict dead trees that could inevitably fall and hurt others. He also referenced that he is unable to get his RV out of his backyard because the alley is not being maintained by the City. He was also cited by Code Enforcement on the premise that his RV was being lived in; he had Code Enforcement staff visit the location, where it was evident the bathroom, stove and refrigerator had never been used. Apparently, he can sleep on a mattress in his yard, but not in his RV. He also referenced problems with businesses taking over residential areas. Based on a request by Councilmember Kruller, the Mayor asked Jack Pace, Community Development Director, to talk with Mr. Brown in the lobby. Marie Parrish, 4430 South 150th, attended the recent Council Work Session on the financing of the Public Safety Plan and emphasized the difficulty of the decisions the City Council must make on important issues. The Work Session last week did not have Public Comments on the agenda, and there were those who yelled out, "You call this a Democracy." From her perspective, this does represent a democracy. We elected Councilmembers to do this hard work, and there are times they must listen and talk to each other to assess the best outcome for the community. At one point last week, a member of the audience told her, "You want to push this out, and you do not want us here, and you don't care." Her response was "You don't know me and can't stereotype me like that." Progress is hard, and the Public Safety Plan is causing disruption to a segment of our community. The City needs to strive to make this work for them. If people do not allow the process to play out, it's just chaos. Howard Greenwich said he is with Puget Sound Sage, which stands with the immigrant and refugee community to help them prosper in place. What Tukwila has here is unique and valuable. In this view if the City does not prioritize preservation, it may be lost. He recounted a story regarding Little Saigon in Seattle that grew in the 1970s/1980s. The City of Seattle has not been willing to commit resources to preserve Little Saigon, and he predicts that in 10 years it will be gone. Mr. Greenwich provided a 2 -page document, titled "The Tukwila International Market: A Community Vision for Stability and Prosperity." The drawing on the handout was taken from the City's planning document from last spring. From his perspective, to cover the budget shortfall in the Public Safety Plan, which involves cutting a Fire station and apparatus, diverting money from parks, and borrowing money, making preservation a priority would be cheaper. He stands with the businesses and asks for a commitment to keep them in Tukwila and give them more time to plan and build a long-term future for everyone. Val Thomas Matson, 5817 South 144th Street, said she is talking to the 3 Councilmembers for whom she had political signs in her yard. It is important to work for the good of the community. She was particularly attracted to Tukwila when she saw the signs on Southcenter Blvd. regarding an inclusive community. When she reads about the history of Tukwila, it involves the Duwamish people, yet when she looks around the room, she does not see tribal members. She wants to live in a Tukwila where everyone who is here right now stays here. She would like to see the displacement stopped and more transparency, so Tukwila can be the City that gets it right. Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes June 18, 2018 Page 4 of 11 Aldi Aden, 428 SW 112th Place, Seattle, said he is the owner of Fresh Green Market. He has concern that the City does not fully realize the services they provide to Tukwila. In his store, natural and organic produce and meats are sold to his customers. They do not sell alcohol or cigarettes. They support Police, Firefighters and the Foster High School youth program. They are contributing members of the Tukwila community. The business owners received only 6 days -notice regarding the Public Safety Plan. The schedule to move by March 2019 is not enough time, and he would like at least one more year. Ali Mohamed Jama, 15035 Tukwila International Blvd., said he owns Have a Nice Day Jewelry. This is the only east African owned small jewelry store in the Seattle area and State of Washington. He emphasized that this is a source of livelihood for many people, including children and the elderly who completely depend on these small businesses. We took buildings that were empty and abandoned 20 years ago, and spent our money, time and energy to bring businesses that serve the community and generate revenue. They want to stay in business and need at least 3-4 years to prepare and find new locations to successfully survive. His son wants to be a doctor, and if he loses his business, his son cannot realize that dream. Abdirahman OJ, 3724 South 141St St, has lived here 20 years and is a founder of the Abu Bakr Islamic Center. He is in support of the small businesses. He used to own the Somali Grocery Store. Ten years ago, there was crime and prostitution on Tukwila International Blvd. The businesses that came together there were not built with money from banks, but from friends and family. These businesses serve not only Tukwila, but the entire region. This is a wake-up call for their community, as they did not expect this from the City of Tukwila. Tukwila is home for us and his children were born here; he is a proud father of Foster Bulldogs. His children ask him every night why Tukwila is doing this to us. They are asking the City to save their businesses, and if that does not happen, more time must be given to the businesses to find other solutions. Offering $5,000 to move businesses does nothing. He is urging the City to think about the small businesses and provide them opportunities. Dina Burstein, is a retired pediatric nurse who spent 20 years at Harborview in the Children's Clinic in Seattle. She interacted with Somali immigrant families and learned how much they depended on the businesses in Tukwila even though they lived in Seattle. She also worked as a school nurse for 9 years in the Renton School District, where she heard the exact same thing from the parents of the Somali students. Now that she's retired, her Somali friends from all over the area tell her the same thing as it relates to depending on the businesses in Tukwila. The immigrant owned businesses contribute health, vibrancy and safety to the Tukwila community, unlike the KFC and Taco Bell that will remain in place based on the Public Safety Plan. There are other options to consider for a Justice Center that would cost less and leave these businesses intact. Takele Gobent said the decisions made about this did not involve input from this business community. He is asking that the community be listened to as integral members of Tukwila. They need to be a part of the decision-making process. He regularly shops at these businesses as do people as far away as Everett. He hopes the City will give this time and respect the voices of this community. Ubah Aden, 4252 South 158th Street, said the City has heard the same message from these businesses. Displacing them is not an option for the community. When she chose Tukwila, it was because it was welcoming and diverse, with 84 different languages at Foster High School. The schools would not have the diversity without these businesses. She knows the community voted for the Justice Center, and she does not believe it was intended that businesses be displaced; if this was on the ballot today, the community would say "no" from her perspective. She works at Swedish Hospital, and the health benefits that come from the businesses that sell fresh foods far surpasses the Taco Bell and Kentucky Fried Chicken businesses that will remain in place. We need a vision of Tukwila that works for all of us; there is no justice if it does not serve everyone. Hanan said her family moved here from Texas to find a sense of belonging. They were told Tukwila was a cultural hub for Somalis in Washington state. While they have lived all over south King County, they have continually benefited from the businesses in Tukwila for years. This community does not need a Police station, it needs to be continually energized. Dismantling this community will create instability and result in the crime and violence that no one wants. The business owners were only told a few days before the decision was made. Their income supports not only their families, but also the whole Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes June 18, 2018 Page 5 of 11 community. She urged the Council to consider what is best for the people and collaborate with constituents to create feasible change. Danthanh Trinh is a family support worker at an elementary school in Seattle and is part of the Martin Luther King working families party. She echoes the comments made by the business community here at this meeting. Many of her students are affected by what is occurring. She has concerns about the negative impacts of them growing up without a community center, with struggling parents, and with a lack of strong leaders and business owners to look up to. She would like to see this situation re-evaluated and research done to make positive choices for tomorrow's generation. Ismahan Ismail is a concerned citizen who is appalled at where the City and State are going. The displacement of immigrants associated with the small businesses in Tukwila is unacceptable. These are hardworking Americans, who have made the City what it is today. She first came here on vacation in 2008 and stayed here because of the people. The City at that time was very dirty, and she was excited about the development occurring. Now those who made this positive difference are being pushed out. This is an area where children grow and adults thrive to live the American dream. She comes here multiple times a day; she prays in the Mosque; shops at the grocery store, sends money to those in need; gets pampered at the beauty salon; dines at the restaurants. The City does not need another Police station if it ruins the lives of hard working people. There are other solutions and other areas. She is ashamed that we voted people in with no one fighting for these rights. Kathleen Wilson, 4803 South 162nd Street, was on the Public Safety Plan Siting Committee and the Kent RFA (Regional Fire Authority) Exploratory Committee, and she co-chaired the RFA Steering Committee. She knew going into the Siting Committee that there would be very difficult decisions to make. The only unanimous decision made by the Committee was not to have housing as an option for siting facilities. There was a great deal of discussion, wrestling, and disagreement and difficult decisions to make. We put our souls into this, and it was not callous. Christopher Benum, 15130 651h Avenue, said thank you as this system is messy. He requested the Council think about the rebar, metal and electronics in every building being proposed due to the tariffs being levied in the near future. He is skeptical about budgeting new buildings when the country is on the brink of a trade war. Many people who feel strongly about this are not attending due to language barriers. He has an interest in this issue as a citizen as it relates to someone breaking into his car or home. Someone observing this would likely be a member of the immigrant or refugee community, and will that person feel comfortable calling the Police Department to report the crime. Without a good relationship between the citizens and the Police Department, he is skeptical that the Justice Center would be beneficial to him. Hodan Hassan has spent her life supporting these businesses and will talk tonight in language about money, business, and capitalism. If these business owners were white, how would you react and would you be displacing their businesses. Would you be reneging on the American dream for those who earned their place in society through hard work. Please ask yourselves how you would be hearing these testimonies if these business owners were white. Hassan Abdi, 12910 East Marginal Way, said he went to middle school and high school here and has family members who have lived here 20+ years. He was on the Parks Commission in high school, helped with fundraising for the new library, and volunteered at the Tukwila Community Center (TCC). This is home and he has given back to the community as much as he could, and he conveyed disappointment at the direction the City is moving in. This plan will deliver a massive blow to immigrant owned businesses that have taken years to establish. This segment of the population is crucial to the very fabric of Tukwila. The business owners were blindsided, and this is contrary to everything Tukwila stands for. This City has the resources and capacity to maintain its integrity, and he asked each Councilmember to act upon it. Mohamed Ahmed offered a greeting of peace, "Peace be upon you." This is an immigrant community on the brink of displacement. Families came here with nothing from a war-torn country with hopes for a better life. They found a City that was struggling due to the exodus of white businesses and took abandoned buildings and made it a home. They have established religious schools, mosques, businesses and homes, and paid taxes, funded schools and roads and provided revenue. In his view, for the City to downplay the role of these businesses in the community is disrespectful. It cannot be forgotten Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes June 18, 2018 Page 6 of 11 that this nation was built on the backs of African slaves for most of its history and by immigrants who came from all over the world to obtain the so-called American dream. He urged the Council to remember this before anything is signed that would detach this community from the City. Laura Cruz, speaking through an interpreter, said she has owned the salon on Tukwila International Blvd. for 8 years. Her business has grown roots in the community and this is her work. She asked to be allowed to continue growing in this place. If she is relocated, she will lose customers and money and may not be able to survive in another location. She wants to continue working and living in Tukwila. Jemola Ibrahim said she is here with her friend and beauty shop owner, Foos Barcadle. The shop has been there for 20+ years. She said if that business goes away, there will be nowhere else for her to go. Her heart is breaking that these businesses will be displaced. This is her home, and she is appealing to the Council that these businesses be supported. Ms. Barcadle asked for compassion. Miguel Ortiz said there is great emotion about what the businesses have and what they might lose. Fifteen to twenty years ago Tukwila was full of crime and prostitution, and these businesses have lasted 20+ years. They do not deserve to be displaced. He requested the Council look out for the people. Simon Stephens said that he has talked with the Tukwila Police Chief and has listened to him. He asked if the Police Chief would be firing the racist Police officers on the force. He has spoken in solidarity with communities of color as it relates to displacement. He moved to Kent 6 years ago with the intent of working for the Seattle Police Department. He took the path of working with the houseless community and formed a group called "Stop the Sweeps Seattle," which grew into a movement. He also worked as a case manager and counselor and began to learn that all of his neighbors lived in the central district in west Seattle. They were displaced and can never go back. He hopes the City will recognize the people who have been here the longest, invested a great deal and have the most to lose. Jane Covert Boulds, 4601 South Roxbury Streets, said she just recently found out about the struggle occurring here. She urged the Council to listen to the community and wondered if anything would change after tonight. The stories are heartbreaking and these people are individuals with families. She encouraged the Council to reflect on these issues, and said it is not too late to work together. Mujib Kamawal, Burien, said he came here for a different matter and walked into this meeting and learned of what is occurring. He moved to Seattle 12 years ago, and he relayed that the Somali community in Tukwila is famous throughout the country. When his family members come to visit, they swarm the Somali stores and restaurants. Other communities are jealous as to how well they have come together over 20-30 years. It seems unreasonable that the people who helped create what the City is today are being displaced. Giorgio Montana intended to speak about the Public Safety Plan and displacement, but because it has already been covered so well, he has nothing more to add. He said another thing people associate with Tukwila is the ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) Office and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). He said this is the place people go for immigration check -ins, the place where people go to have their ankle band checked, or where wives go if their husbands have not returned from work because ICE may have them. It is a massive office complex in Tukwila. He said everyone should be aware of what is happening at the border with zero tolerance for those seeking asylum from other countries. The ICE agents laugh about what is occurring on the border. He played an audio recording from an incident at the border involving children crying. From his perspective these operations involve the office that is located in the City of Tukwila. Dennis Martinez, 4660 South 160th Street, said that Toys R Us is going out of business and it may be a good fit for some of these businesses. It would be nice to reach out to that land owner and see if there is a way those businesses could relocate there. He offered a reminder that kids will be out of school soon and to increase vigilance while driving as kids will be playing outside. Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes June 18, 2018 Page 7 of 11 CONSENT AGENDA a. Approval of Minutes: 6/4/18 (Regular) b. Approval of Vouchers #378084-378199; #180601-180603 in the amount of $3,173,563.99 c. Legislation regarding Vintage@Tukwila: (1) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, AMENDING THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AS PART OF THE ANNUAL DOCKET FOR 2018 BY MODIFYING THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN LAND USE MAP FOR THE VINTAGE@TUKWILA REZONE; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. ORDINANCE NO. 2577 (2) AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, REZONING CERTAIN REAL PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE RYAN HILL NEIGHBORHOOD AND KNOWN AS VINTAGE@TUKWILA FROM LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL (LDR) TO HIGH DENSITY RESIDENTIAL (HDR); PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. ORDINANCE NO. 2578 MOVED BY ROBERTSON, SECONDED BY HOUGARDY THAT THE CONSENT AGENDA BE APPROVED AS SUBMITTED. MOTION CARRIED 7-0. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Approve Public Safety Plan funding: Scenario D — 20 -year debt with apparatus and equipment financed. In 2016 the City of Tukwila developed a Public Safety Plan, which consisted of the following components: • A voter -approved Public Safety Bond to pay for three fire stations, guaranteed funding for fire equipment and apparatus for the life of the 20 -year bond and the construction of a Justice Center to house the City's Police Department and Municipal Court • A consolidated shops facility, paid through an equal contribution of existing General and Utility funds On November 8, 2016, the voters of the City of Tukwila approved the public safety bond. Since that time, the City has begun implementing the multi-year Public Safety Plan. Financing options for the Public Safety Plan have been discussed at the Finance Committee meetings since February 2018, as well as the June 11, 2018 City Council Work Session, with key points as follows: Process • Began on February 6, 2018 • Committee and staff consensus on process • Collaborative approach; staff responded to Committee requests, incorporated feedback as it developed recommendations • Committee reviewed preliminary six-year forecast and preliminary Q1 sales tax revenue report to fully understand impacts • Staff developed multiple scenarios for review • Consensus among Committee and staff that whatever recommendation moves forward, this is a framework and at each budget cycle it will be refined based on current data Tools • Voter -approved bonds • LTGO (Councilmanic) bonds • Fire impact fees • Land sales and other one-time funds • Ongoing REET (Real Estate Excise Tax) 1 • New revenue • General Fund operations • Capital Improvement Program (CIP) prioritization • Project schedules, delay and ramifications • Reduction in apparatus and equipment funding • Financing apparatus and equipment Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes June 18, 2018 Page 8 of 11 Consensus on tools used in framework • LTGO (councilmanic) bonds • Fire impact fees • Land sales and other one-time funds • Ongoing REET 1 • General Fund operations • Reduction in apparatus and equipment funding • Financing apparatus and equipment Finance Committee Recommendation — D-20 (f) • Build two fire stations (51 & 52) and justice center • Dedicate $30 million to Public Works for land purchase, building upgrade and master planning • 20 -year bonds to not bind future Councils • Least overall impact to the General Fund MOVED BY QUINN, SECONDED BY ROBERTSON TO APPROVE PUBLIC SAFETY PLAN FUNDING SCENARIO D-20 YEAR DEBT WITH APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT.* Rachel Bianchi, Communications and Government Relations Manager, offered to answer questions regarding this issue. Councilmember Hougardy recounted that several scenarios were presented, and the 20 -year financing plan took Fire Station 54 off the table, such that a new station would not be built and would be renovated. She said the PMQA (Program Management Quality Assurance) consultant had suggested acquiring a schematic design for Station 54 in the event the City does decide to build the station. She supports proceeding with a schematic design that would then leave Station 54 on the table. Ms. Bianchi said the cost of a schematic design would be $250,000-$300,000. Councilmember Quinn, Chair of the Finance Committee, said the recommendation was thoroughly discussed by the Finance Committee through a long process and again at the recent Work Session. Councilmember Kruller said we have a recommendation from the Finance Committee that was also discussed at the recent Work Session. In summary, a $77 million dollar bond measure was passed, and there is now a gap that is almost twice that amount. We are seeking ways to cut the costs. The addition of $300,000 was not recommended by the Finance Committee nor was it suggested at the Work Session. Councilmember McLeod said he is unable to come to terms with the idea of spending money to design a building he knows the City cannot afford. He remains in favor of the Finance Committee's recommendation. Councilmember Idan relayed that what is on the table this evening is the financing of the facilities. Eminent domain has already occurred. At the recent Work Session, he reviewed the numbers and asked that the City slow down as there are not enough funds to build the facilities. Although, we are leaving out one Fire Station, there remains significant burden on the City's budget. Based on the forecast sheet, there is a deficit of $295 million. He cannot support this, and he would like to look at the budget at the same time funding is considered for this project. The numbers in front of the Council right now do not give him confidence that the City can successfully build these facilities. He would like to see the totality of what we have and what we can afford, and he cannot support the motion on the table. Councilmember Robertson expressed disappointment that a fire station must be pulled off the table. The costs for the facilities are much greater than anticipated, and the primary source of revenue by way of sales tax has flattened out. The longer the City waits to make the decision, the more costs continue to go up by hundreds of thousands of dollars to build the facilities. Putting off doing anything continues to increase the costs. The City will never know for sure ahead of time whether there will be enough money, as forecasts do not provide certainty. During the next 6 months, if the sales tax does not improve, the City can decide to slow down and spread this out. That also comes with increased costs as the economy is not showing signs of slowing down. The need for these facilities was established years ago due to Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes June 18, 2018 Page 9 of 11 building instability, location problems, and safety of the public. The Finance Committee's recommendation is the wisest middle point. If the City happens to end up with more money, we can quickly add Fire Station 54 back into the equation. Councilmember Hougardy asked if costs are known with regard to renovating Fire Station 54. Ms. Bianchi responded that those numbers are not known as an analysis would need to be undertaken. Ms. Hougardy said if she does not have the schematic design or renovation costs, she cannot ascertain a preferable option. Her view is that if the City proceeds with Option D-20, then Station 54 is off the table. She can support Option D-20 if it includes schematic costs for Station 54 such that it remains on the table. Council President Seal inquired as to how much staff time would be needed to provide a dollar amount to retrofit Fire Station 54. Ms. Bianchi said they would need to have one of the consultants do a building assessment, which costs approximately $2,500. We would also ask our GCCM (General Contractor Construction Management) to pull together a group that includes architectural consultants to provide a strong number. Ms. Bianchi has asked for that number and will provide it to the Council once it is available. Ms. Seal said this topic has been ongoing since February and was discussed at a recent Work Session. The Council talked about offramps and escalating costs. These improvements should have been made a long time ago. We do not want to push any debt the City incurs out 30 years to future Councils such that they are burdened by what is occurring at this time. She has been looking at the fire stations since 2005, and the first responders need to be safe and that is not occurring as long as they are in these buildings. If there was a major disaster, Fire Station 51 responders would not be able to get to the citizens. She supports Option D-20 and suggests the Council support acquiring numbers to retrofit Station 54. Councilmember Quinn referenced the comments from community members that have been made about this topic over the last several months. He emphasized that he has heard every last comment and every one of those comments has left a mark. Councilmember Kruller said she asked the question 2 years ago, 2 weeks ago, and again last week as to what city does everything all at once. The response was that there were school districts that did large campus plans and that the research had not been done for cities. She lacks confidence as the mark was missed financially by almost twice as much. The decision made after review at several meetings was to go with Option D-20 and not go out more than 20 years in debt. Since 80% of the cost will be borne by the businesses in Tukwila, who have no vote at all, she takes spending this money very seriously. In her view, if the City cannot afford this right now, we must show discipline and put it on hold for a while. While we love our Fire Department, we just cannot afford it right now. After the vote tonight, there is an off ramp to re -assess and make different decisions. She is embarrassed that the City is rushing without solid figures. She fully supports Option D-20 that has been carefully deliberated and then use the off -ramps as needed. Councilmember McLeod said this bond measure was passed by 31 votes and provided $77 million. The public safety buildings were built in the 1970s and are inadequate for working conditions and unsafe in the event of a serious event. This effort is not about displacement but adding adequate facilities to support the community. He is not in favor of any business leaving the City. The Light Rail system brings many people to Tukwila and unfortunately that also brings crime. Placement of the Justice Center near the Light Rail station is beneficial to Tukwila. He supports Option D-20. Councilmember Idan grew up in this community, and he knows many of those small businesses affected by the Public Safety Plan. When his family arrived in the great state of Washington, one of the first stops was Marwa Restaurant. This area is special to him as it is where he and his family shops. It has been difficult from him to understand why this location was selected, and he determined it was due to public access. Those who spoke tonight said they need time and that they are not against Police or the Courts. What is on the floor at this time is the financial piece, and from his perspective, the money is not there to make this feasible. He is unclear as to how to fund this deficit, and he cannot support the recommendation. He encouraged those in the audience to stay engaged toward not only their issues, but also as they relate to the broader community. He expressed that while he is from Somalia, he would not Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes June 18, 2018 Page 10 of 11 support the displacement of small businesses in this community regardless of the ethnicity of the business owners. Councilmember Hougardy would like to have the cost to retrofit Fire Station 54 prior to taking the vote tonight to ensure it is not taken off the table. Councilmember Kruller said research can occur with Fire Station 54, and the Council can still move ahead with this option that has been heavily considered over the last several months. Mayor Ekberg said staff would research the costs to retrofit Fire Station 54. Councilmember Idan concurs with waiting to make the decision per Councilmember Hougardy's suggestion. *MOTION CARRIED 5-2, WITH HOUGARDY AND IDAN VOTING NO. NEW BUSINESS Settlement Agreements MOVED BY SEAL, SECONDED BY ROBERTSON TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR, IN CONSULTATION WITH THE CITY ATTORNEY, TO ENTER INTO SETTLEMENT AGREEMENTS WITH BUSINESSES AFFECTED BY THE CITY'S PUBLIC SAFETY PLAN.* Councilmember Hougardy expressed sincere appreciation for the community coming forward to speak. As elected officials, they are bound to remain silent on topics that may be under litigation that can be difficult to understand at times. Christopher Benum, 15130 65th Avenue, addressed Councilmember Robertson's comment regarding "nothing that suggests the economy is going to slow down." He referenced tariffs in the 1920s -1930s that were followed by the Great Depression. While he is not sure how to factor that in, he wanted to draw attention to it. Hassan Abdi, 12910 East Marginal Way, does not feel the Council is addressing this matter with the urgency it deserves. He asked if the community would be told that the parks and open spaces funds would be raided for the Public Safety Plan. Councilmember Quinn said if you look at the prior Finance Committee agendas that topic has been on the last 6 agendas. David Cline, City Administrator, will ensure staff is available to answer those specific questions and outreach will be undertaken to inform the whole community. Mayor Ekberg explained that questions are not answered from the dais. *MOTION CARRIED 7-0. REPORTS a. Mayor There was no report. b. City Council Councilmember Robertson echoed Councilmember Hougardy's comments about restrictions on what Councilmembers can discuss. Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes June 18, 2018 Page 11 of 11 Council President Seal met with the Teens for Tukwila group in regard to the proposed immigration ordinance, and once she hears back, their comments will be incorporated into the document. The ordinance will be forthcoming to a future Committee of the Whole meeting. Councilmember Quinn said there is a Work Session on Compensation in the Council Chambers on June 19, 2018 at 5:30 p.m. Councilmember Kruller reported that she was in Wenatchee this past weekend to visit the Pybus Public Market. She took pictures and interviewed those at the market to provide input for the City Council. They retrofitted an old steel mill and turned it into a public market, which has a great deal of volunteer support. She would like to see an International Market in Tukwila in the area of TIB (Tukwila International Blvd.). They received money from federal grants, funds from their budget, and donations from businesses. She would like to hear the story from Wenatchee and how they put this together in an effort to do something similar in Tukwila. Councilmember McLeod offered a reminder regarding the Public Safety Plan Open House at Fire Station 54 on Saturday, June 23, 2018 from 10:00 a.m. to noon. Councilmember Idan echoed Councilmember Kruller's comments about an International Market Place in Tukwila. c. Staff David Cline, City Administrator, referenced the CA (City Administrator) report and offered to answer any questions. d. City Attorney There was no report. e. Council Analyst Laurel Humphrey, Council Analyst, referenced the Public Safety Plan Program Management Quality Assurance (PMQA) report and offered to answer any questions. EXECUTIVE SESSION — Potential Litigation - Pursuant to RCW 42.30.110(1)(i) - CANCELLED ADJOURNMENT 9:50 p.m. MOVED BY ROBERTSON, SECONDED BY KRULLER TO ADJOURN THE REGULAR MEETING. OTION C ' IED 7-0. Alla (4. ayo (7 44:1-) Christy O'Flaherty, Records Governance Man •er/City Clerk APPROVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL: 7/2/18 AVAILABLE ON CITY WEBSITE: 7/3/18