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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005-11 Hazelnut Newsletter - Volume 26 No. 5t `� 1903 • THE HAZELNUT A City of Tukwila publication for our residential and business communities VOLUME 26, NUMBER 5 2006 TOTAL PROPOSED BUDGET General Fund $45,267,824 Capital & Gen Gov't Funds 33,218,195 Enterprise Funds (water, sewer, surface water, golf) 30,842,927 Internal Srvc & Reserve Funds 13,167,090 Debt Service Funds 2,643,236 TOTAL $125,139,272 2006 GENERAL FUND OPERATING BUDGET, BY DEPARTMENT Administration $8,692,735 Council, Mayor, Personnel, Finance, Community Development, Attorney, Human Services, Municipal Court, etc. Parks & Recreation 3,763,588 Police 11,130,078 Fire 8,870,643 Public Works 5,813,722 Engineering, Street Maintenance, Facility Maintenance Other Fund balance & transfers 6,997,058 TOTAL $45,267,824 d r 'yoUa re invite to attend Public Hearing the 2006 budget to be held Monday, November 21 at 7.00vm, in at rnbers Counkkwt a City Hall Tu formation, For more in call please �2p64 Tukwila's 2006 Preliminary Budget and Capital Plan go to Council The Draft 2006 Annual Budget and the 2006-2011 Financial Planning Model and Capital Improvement Plan were presented to the City Council on October 3. This begins another yearly process of Council review and deliberation, with final passage of these plans slated for mid-December. Although much of the substance of these documents NOVEMBER 2005 results from ongoing conversations with the Council, this is the first time they have been presented with a comprehensive attempt to balance the competing needs for 2006. Over the last few years our primary concerns have centered on maintaining essen- tial services while dealing with declining revenues bought about by the recession and multiple voter -approved initiatives. Having weathered these storms, I was looking forward to 2005 as the breakout year — a year when construction would blossom and the City's revenue picture would start to improve. Fortunately, rev- enues did stabilize and we have seen a small upswing in retail sales and home construction. The major economic enhancements, however, did not happen as soon as expected but are still expected in the foreseeable future. Hopefully 2006 will see some new construction starts on major projects. In a nutshell, Tukwila remains in good financial health. Over the years we have been very careful to ensure that any increases in service growth are paid for by revenues that are dependable and fairly constant. We are, however, at the mercy of the regional prosperity. Over 90% of our revenues come from businesses and business customers. Most of those workers and customers drive here from outside Tukwila, and the competition for their dollars is increasing every day. As our roads become more and more congested, people will have a greater tendency to shop locally rather than regionally. While it is important that the City maintain its retail market share, we are dedicated to protecting our neighborhoods and finding the revenues for improvements to infrastructure throughout the City. Council discussions on the 2006 Budget, Planning Model, and CIP began at the Committee level during the second week in October. The final budget is sched- uled to be adopted by mid-December. Questions regarding the budget, the budget process, and City Council deliberations may be directed to Finance Director Kevin Fuhrer at 206-433-1838. (Continued on back page) AA, VVl �9Suk- Steve Mullet, Mayor Tukwila City Council Actions: September/October 2005 September Approved ordinance making certain gambling offenses misdemeanors that can be prosecuted in Tukwila Munici- pal Court. Approved a resolution establishing for- mal financial policies to ensure sound financial management of the City. Approved a motion authorizing appli- cation for Community Development Block Grant funds for the Tukwila/ SeaTac Minor Home Repair Program. Approved an ordinance granting a non-exclusive franchise for installing, operating, and maintaining a wireless telecommunications system in the public rights-of-way to Clearwire Com- munications. Appointed Sisay Desalegn to the Hu- man Services Advisory Board. Awarded a construction contract for drainage improvement projects at South 124th St./45th Avenue South, 43rd Ave. South/South 140th St./ 45th Ave. South, and 42nd Ave. South near Southcenter Blvd to Dennis R. Craig, Inc. Surface Water fees will pay for these projects. Held a public hearing and approved a resolution to vacate South 124th St. west of East Marginal Way South. Approved an ordinance amending a franchise agreement with Sprint Com- munications Company, LR Approved a 2005 Small Drainage Pro- gram contract supplement to KPG, Inc., for construction management ser- vices. For up-to-date information about Council meetings/agendas/activities, visit our website: http://www.cLtukwila.wa.us 2 October Approved an interlocal agreement with the City of Renton regarding temporary housing of Tukwila inmates awaiting transfer to Yakima County Jail. Appointed Kathleen Crabtree to the King County Int'l Airport Roundtable. Approved an ordinance creating a three-year demonstration Housing Op- tions Program for small-scale housing, to allow up to three projects that create housing not typically developed, such as cottages, compact homes and du- plexes in residential neighborhoods. Approved a contract for the administra- tion of the 2005-2007 Commute Trip Reduction Program with the Washing- ton State Dept. of Transportation. Approved the acceptance of a small portion of the right-of-way along An- dover Park West as part of the ACME Bowling development, in order to ac- commodate future street widening. Approved a contract for an LID feasibil- ity study with Macaulay & Associates for the Tukwila Urban Center Access/ Klickitat Project. Approved a resolution canceling out- standing Municipal Court checks, claims/payroll checks issued prior to July 2003, and gift certificates issued prior to July 2004. Approved a resolution canceling past - due accounts and returned check write-offs from 2003-2004. The debts are still subject to collection and can- not cause denial of a business license. After inviting public comment, ap- proved a resolution opposing I-912 which would repeal the recent gas tax increase. After inviting public comment, ap- proved a resolution opposing I-900 which would direct the State Audi- tor to conduct performance audits on State and local governments. Business license renewals for 2006 arrive in December All 2005 business licenses expire on December 31. Business license re- newal forms will be mailed at the be- ginning of December to all currently licensed Tukwila businesses. By law, all businesses operating within the City (including home occupations) must renew their licenses no later than January 31 of each year. Penalty fees will go into effect on February 1, 2006, for businesses that have not submitted their renewal form and fee to the City Clerk's office. Businesses new to Tukwila in 2006 are required to obtain a license prior to opening. In addition, specialty li- censes are required for businesses with live music/entertainment, tow trucks, amusement devices, solicitors/ped- dlers, or adult entertainment. Application forms are available from the City Clerk's office during regular business hours, 8:30AM to 5:OOPM, Monday thru Friday. Business license applications may also be printed from the City of Tukwila website at http:// www.ci.tukwila.wa.us. If you have any questions regarding licensing procedures, please call 206- 433-1800. Number of Employees License Fee O to 5 $50 6 to 100 $100 101 and above $200 THE HAZELNUT Pedestrian safety requires extra effort in winter It's true... winter weather has returned. That, along with the time change and extended hours of darkness, brings add- ed danger to pedestrians. The number of vehicle/pedestrian accidents result- ing in serious injuries or death always increases this time of year. On aver- age, the Tukwila Police Department investigates three serious injury/fatal pedestrian accidents each year. Some of the reasons for the accidents are listed below: • Pedestrian wearing all dark cloth- ing • Crossing outside of a crosswalk • Assuming that the car WILL stop just because you are a pedestrian. • ALCOHOL! Many of our pedestri- an accidents are the result of the pe- destrian being under the influence of alcohol. There are some things you can do to help keep you safe: • Wear reflective and light colored clothing when walking. • Use a crosswalk when there is one available and only walk when you have the walk signal. • Do not cross the street unless you are certain the driver of an oncom- ing vehicle sees you. • Always look for traffic and ensure that it stops before crossing. • Continue checking for traffic as you cross. • Be especially vigilant when crossing a multi -lane roadway. • Hold on to small children. Do not allow them to lag behind or run ahead of you. Children can be hard for drivers to see. • If walking on a roadway with no sidewalks, walk on the shoulder fac- ing on -coming traffic. A car traveling at 35mph will travel 51 feet in one second. The distance increases as speed increases. It will also take the driver approximately 1.5 seconds to react after he sees you and then you have to add the stopping dis- tance. Do not assume that you have plenty of time just because the vehicle looks far away. A violation of RCW 46.61.060 (`Failing to obey a pedestrian control device') and 46.61.240 (Pedestrian failing to yield to traffic') could result in a $46 fine. A violation of RCW 46.61.235 (`Failing to yield to a pedestrian in crosswalk or passing a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk') carries a fine of $101. Don't become a statistic... BE SAFE Tukwila Police Department Traffic Unit Boardmember needed The Community -Oriented Policing Citizens Advisory Board (COPCAB) is cur- rently seeking a residential representative. The COPCAB is an official City board consisting of nine members, with residents, business people, a school representa- tive, and a student. The Board meets monthly with the Chief of Police. It makes recommendations to the Chief on issues of public safety and promotes community policing. If you are interested or if you have questions, please contact Marja Mur- ray, Police Department Administrative Secretary, at 206-433-7175. Comprehensive Plan Amendment deadline If you are interested in suggesting a policy or map change for Tuk- wila's Comprehensive Plan, the annual deadline for applying for a Comprehensive Plan amendment is December 31, 2005. Applica- tions received by the deadline will be reviewed by the City Council and Planning Commission during 2006. Applications are available on line at http://www.ci.tukwila.wa.us/ dcd/dcdplan.htm#planfees or can be picked up in person at the Tukwila Department of Com- munity Development, located at 6300 Southcenter Boulevard, Suite 100. Please contact Rebecca Fox, Senior Planner at 206-431-3683 or rfox@ci.tukwila.wa.us for more information about Comprehensive Plan amendments in general, filing fees and review procedures. You are welcome to attend a Public Hearing on amendments to the Comprehensive Plan Transportation Element (File #L04-084) and Traffic Impact Fee Ordinance Monday, December 5, 2005 7:OOpm in City Council Chambers at Tukwila City Hall For more information, please call 206-431-3670. NOVEMBER 2005 3 Riders on the storm: Answering the assistance call for Hurricane Katrina On August 28, 2005 the biggest pre -deployment in U.S. his- tory was initiated by the NDMS (National Disaster Medical System), a subsidiary of FEMA (Federal Emergency Manage- ment System). Lt. Mike McCoy and Firefighter Pat McCoy from the Tukwila Fire Department arrived that same day in Houston, Texas. Tukwila Firefighter Richard Rees arrived in Gulfport, Mississippi a few days later. Firefighter Rees was deployed through USAR (Urban Search And Rescue), anoth- er subsidiary of FEMA. Lt. McCoy and Firefighter Pat McCoy rented cars and head- ed for the Superdome in Louisiana. "When I got off the freeway in New Orleans, I saw a middle-aged man walk- ing down the street in thigh -high water. He had blood on his shirt and was pulling a floating suitcase. He was saying over and over again help me, help me. We had to continue because our vehicle was full and we had a thousand people waiting for us. I thought to myself, this is not going to be any fun," said Firefighter Pat McCoy. They arrived at the Superdome and the conditions were in- deed horrendous. There were bodies everywhere. There was a woman lying on a door being used as a makeshift bed. There was an elderly woman on the ground beside her with huge bedsores, and there were newborns with no clothes to wear. It was extremely hot and humid. There were no working bathroom facilities, no food and no water. After few hours, the firefighters got word that the second levy had broken. They had radios to communicate with each other, but all cellular phone sites were down and satellite phones were not working properly. The team had to get to high ground. The firefighters left a 35 -person team at the Super- dome. They waited for four hours on the freeway where they saw many thousands of people walking the interstate. When they decided that it was too unsafe to continue stag- ing on the interstate, the McCoys went to Louisiana State University, which was a staging area. At 3:30 in the morn- ing on Tuesday, August 30 they were sent to the New Or- leans Airport. 4 Firefighter Pat McCoy was assigned as Operations Chief for Medical at the Airport. Lt. Mike McCoy was assigned the same position but took the night shift. The number of pa- tients was staggering. There were 2,500 patients in the first 48 hours to be treated by approximately 100 care providers. Eventually more providers arrived to help. Medical prob- lems included trauma and medical emergencies. Sleep was in short supply during those first four days; the firefighters slept in the back of their rented vehicles when they could. On Wednesday night 1,500 evacuees from various locations pulled up in three semi trucks. The evacuees had traveled in 100° heat in the back of these enclosed semi trucks. "It was really stressful and overwhelming," said Lt. McCoy. At any point during the first 72 hours there were 12 helicopters on the ground waiting to unload evacuees and take off again. Nineteen buses lined up at one point waiting to unload evac- uees and patients. Tempers were short, and all were grateful when `ICE' (Immigration Custom Enforcement) arrived to protect them. Finally, by their third day in the airport the medical team received power through generators. During the last few days of their deployment, patients dwindled to a mere 200 a day. Firefighter Richard Rees staged in Dallas, Texas for two days. He was deployed to Gulfport, Mississippi to conduct searches in collapsed residential and commercial buildings in down- town Gulfport. "My impression was devastation. The city was absolutely destroyed everywhere within sixteen blocks of the ocean," he said. The Tukwila Fire Department personnel arrived home on Saturday, September 10. Lt. McCoy expressed that his own bed never felt so good. He was deployed for a second time on September 16, accompanied by Firefighter Matt Hickey, to treat patients in the emergency room at Kindred Hospital in New Orleans. The City of Tukwila is grateful for their safe return and for the hard work and commitment to such an important cause. THE HAZELNUT Information about outdoor burning Several community members have in- quired about outdoor burning. As of December 31, 2000, the Washington Clean Air Act (Revised Code of Wash- ington, 70.94) limits outdoor burning extensively in the State of Washington. The City of Tukwila's population ex- ceeds 10,000 people, and as a result the burning of leaves, clippings, prun- ings, and other yard refuse by the oc- cupant is not allowed. Other alternatives to burning could be composting, recycling, waste reduc- tion and landfill disposal. Once a year the City of Tukwila offers its residents one spring clean-up trip to the dump. Watch for these dates and details in the Hazelnut. Residents may have recreational fires in their yards as long as the fire is 25 feet from any structure, no larger than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet in height. (International Fire Code [IFC] 307.3) A recreational fire is a cooking fire, a campfire, or a small bonfire that uses charcoal or firewood (bare untreated wood) that occurs on private property for cooking, pleasure, or ceremonial purposes. (Washington Administra- tive Code [WAC] 173-425-030) Have a garden hose or extinguisher readily available when you have a recreational fire. Use common sense and be cour- teous to your neighbors. If complaints are received, the fire code officials can, at their discretion, authorize the fire to be extinguished. (IFC 307.2.2) Exercise fire awareness for a safe Christmas Following these tips will help ensure a safe and happy holiday season for you and your family. Post your address clearly on your house so that it is visible from the street. If you buy a tree several days before you plan to set it up, store it in a cov- ered cool area. Protection from the wind and sun will help the tree retain its moisture. Make a straight cut across the butt end one inch from the bottom and keep the tree in a bucket of wa- ter. When you bring the tree into the house, make another fresh cut across the trunk about an inch from the origi- nal cut. Don't block exits with your tree. Use a tree stand that can hold plenty of water. Trees are thirsty. They drink up to four quarts of water a day. Check the water level daily and supply fresh water as needed. Do not place trees near fireplaces, floor heaters, radiators, heating vents, tele- vision sets, and other sources of heat. Turn off the tree lights when leaving the house or going to bed. Do not use lights with worn or frayed cords. Use only UL -listed lights and no more than 3 strands of lights linked to- gether. Do not place cords underneath rugs or in paths of travel. Miniature lights have cool -burning bulbs. NEVER use lighted candles on a Christ- mas tree or near a tree. Never leave candles burning unattended. Candles have become one of the leading causes of fire deaths in the home. Do not burn your Christmas wrapping or boxes and branches from your tree in your fireplace. They cause a film in the chimney that can damage it, and when they burn the fire may cause ex- cessive heat, which can damage your chimney and cause a fire in the wall. When large amounts of needles begin to fall off your tree, it's time to get rid of it. Dispose of the tree properly. (Please see related article on page 7.) 40000",7"44) .1"1111 Burn barrels are not included in the recreational fire category. (WAC 173- 400-070) Why then are they spot- ted at times on E. Marginal Way S.? These types of containers are required to have an enclosed combustion cham- ber, equipped with a permanently at- tached spark arrester constructed of iron or heavy wire mesh, and an open- ing of not larger than 1 /4 -inch in diam- eter. These barrels, when detected by Tukwila Fire Department personnel, are inspected for the criteria previously listed. If they do not meet the criteria, they are not allowed. Great safety gift ideas Smoke detectors and batteries (most have a 10 -year life span); fire extinguisher (2A1 OBC); flashlight and batteries; carbon monoxide detector; cell phone; second floor escape ladder; first aid kit for your vehicle which includes sterile adhesive bandages in various sizes, 3" sterile gauze pads, 3 triangular bandages, scissors, bar of soap, antiseptic spray, latex gloves, hypoallergenic adhesive tape, tweezers, moistened towelettes, and thermometer. NOVEMBER 2005 5 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • la • • • • • • • Parks 6 Recreation SPECIAL EVENTS Holiday Adopt -A -Family Program Are you in the SPIRIT OF GIVING? Each holiday season Tukwila Parks and Recreation orga- nizes a holiday giving program with names of local chil- dren and families in need. This program relies on gener- ous citizens who are interested in `adopting' the children or families and purchasing new gift items for them. If you or your business would like to share in the spirit of giv- ing, please contact Shannon Fisher at 206-768-2822 or e-mail at sfisherci.tukwila.wa.us. By participating in this program, you can truly make a difference in the life of a child less fortunate. Breakfast with Santa Saturday, December 3 — 9:00 to 1 1:OOAM Come to the Tukwila Communi- ty Center to have breakfast with family, friends and SANTA! Cost is $5.00. Get into the spirit with holiday entertainment from our local elementary schools. Children can sit on Santa's lap and even have a professional photo taken (additional fee). American Legion Christmas Party Thursday, December 15 — 7:00 to 8:30PM Tukwila Parks and Recreation Department and the Tukwila American Legion Post #235 will hold their annual Christ- mas party for children at the Tukwila Community Center's Banquet Room. Activities include entertainment, songs, and a visit from Santa. Please bring a can of food to donate to the Tukwila Food Pantry. Winter Break Camp December 19-30 (closed on Monday, December 26) Tukwila's Winter Break Camp will provide new friends and exciting activities for children grades K-5 at the Tukwila Community Center. We'll be going on field trips, making arts & crafts, playing new and old games and much, much more! Campers must bring a sack lunch and beverage each day. Hours are from 6:30AM to 6:OOPM. Call the Tukwila Community Cen- ter at 206-768-2822 for registration information and for weekly and bi-weekly rates. 6 Tukwila Library Founders Club The Tukwila Library now offers the Founders Club, providing you the opportunity to receive reading material personally se- lected for you based on your reading interests. You'll discuss your reading interests with library staff, who will develop your reading profile and then make selections based on that profile. The materials will be sent to the Tukwila Li- brary, and you'll receive a hold notice in the mail or by e-mail when the materials are ready for you to pick up. Founders Club members can receive regular and large print books, books on tape, CDs, videos, DVDs and more! Call the Traveling Library and Words on Wheels of the King County Library System today for more information: 425-369-3456 or 1-877-905-2008. Macadam Winter Garden receives grant Through hard work and dedication to improving our com- munity, a partnership between the Tukwila Children's Foun- dation, several local Starbucks stores, and Tukwila Parks and Recreation was successful in securing a $15,000 grant for the development of Macadam Winter Garden. Earlier this year, application was made to the Starbucks Neigh- borhood Parks Program for the new Macadam Winter Gar- den project. After grant submission and review, the Park was chosen as a finalist in the Starbucks grant program, and a site visit was conducted with the local applicants and company representatives. On June 4, the $15,000 grant was officially awarded to the Macadam Winter Garden project, along with 29 other recipi- ents throughout King, Pierce and Snohomish Counties. Department celebrates conference wins At this year's Washington Recreation and Park Association (WRPA) annual conference, Tukwila Parks and Recreation was honored to accept three awards for outstanding achievement. Each year, WRPA presents a series of awards that have be- come a coveted honor for the people and organizations singled out for their contribution to parks and recreation. The City of Tukwila congratulates the Parks and Recreation team for: Outstanding Facilities Award: Foster Golf Links — Clubhouse and Course Renovation Outstanding and unique achievements in parks and recreation design/ development to public agencies. Professional Citation of Merit: Rick Still, Deputy Director Individual's contribution to the parks and recreation field. Honor Fellow Award: Don Williams, Past Director (retired) Individual's dedication and achievement in parks and recre- ation profession. Nomination requires at least 10 years' pro- fessional experience. THE HAZELNUT King County Library System Programs for Children TUKWILA LIBRARY Story Times Wednesdays—10:30AM November 2,9,23,30 December 7 & 14 For ages 2 to 6, and their families The 6PrIDeess or)d the deo Wednesday, November 23—10:30AM Presented by Snapdragon Puppets Production Follow the plight of a lonely prince searching for a real princess, and the story of a real princess and the pea who loves her. This beloved story is brought to life with humor, fun and lots of audience participation. Tukwila Library 14475 - 59th Avenue South 206-244-5140 f ser GOLF LINKS FAMILY WEEKENDS — KIDS PLAY FREE Tukwila's Parks & Recreation Dept. and Foster Golf Links announce family weekends... golf style! Saturdays and Sundays after 1:OOPM Kids* play free with a paid adult (* ages 6-17) Designed to introduce the game to the next generation, Family Weekends are a great opportunity to spend a week- end afternoon with the entire family! Contact the Pro Shop for more details 206-242-4221 Website: www.fostergolflinks.com NOVEMBER 2005 Sewer and surface water rates for 2006 In order to adequately finance the City's sewer utility and improvements, a rate increase has been approved by City Council for 2006. The expenses to operate and maintain the City's sewer system have increased each year due to aging pipe and pump facilities and the growth of infrastructure. Effective January 2006, the flat residential sewer rate will increase from $7.00 to $8.00. Commercial rates will increase from $12.00 to $14.00 per 750 cubic feet of water consumption. Monthly sewer bills also include the King County Metro sewage treatment charge of $25.60 and that will remain the same for 2006. Surface water rates were last increased in 2000. The City committed that there would be no rate increases for 5 years. The utility has been very successful in re- ducing flooding throughout the City. Currently the Cascade View Neighborhood Drainage Project and Strander Boulevard Pipe Replacement Project are under con- struction. Effective January 2006, the flat rate for residential surface water will increase from $52.00 per year to $62.00. Commercial rates will increase 20%. There will be no water utility rate increase in 2006. Customers with questions or comments about rates are encouraged to contact either the City's Finance Depart- ment at 206-433-1835, or Public Works Administration at 206-433-0179. 4444*. 4444 Christmas Tree Pick-up To help with your after -holiday cleaning, Sea -Tac Disposal will pick up Christmas trees during the week of January 2-6. Garbage service subscribers can place the trees out on their regularly scheduled pick-up day, and a yard waste collection vehicle will pick up the Christmas trees. Trees must meet the following guidelines: • Unflocked and completely free of all decorations. • Without attached stands. • Base of tree cannot exceed 4" in diameter Trees taller than five feet must be cut into three-foot sections and bundled with natural material, such as twine. If the trees do not meet the above criteria (are flocked, dec- orated or fire -proofed), they will be disposed of as garbage, which will incur an extra disposal charge of $3.33 per tree. Non -subscribers of garbage service will follow the same pro- cedures but must place the trees out beginning at 6:OOAM on January 2, 2006. If you have any questions or problems, please call Frank Iri- arte at 206-433-0179, or Sea -Tac Disposal Customer Service at 206-682-9735. 4444444444, Community Development: Guiding Tukwila's growth Unlike other City services such as the police and firefight- ers, the activities of the Department of Community Develop- ment (DCD) are not always very visible. DCD consists of Code Enforcement, the Building Division (Building Official, building inspectors, plans examiners), and the Planning Divi- sion. You may be familiar with the Code Enforcement team, who have introduced themselves through a series of articles in the Hazelnut. Building inspectors are frequently out and about in the community inspecting building projects as con- struction proceeds. But what about those planners? What exactly do they do for the residents of Tukwila and the business community? One of the most frequent questions asked of a planner is "What can I do with my property?" That's where the Zon- ing Code comes in — the zoning of your property determines whether you can conduct a business or can build multi -fam- ily housing or divide the property into additional building sites. The planners also administer the Sign Code, process TUKWILA URBAN CENTER (TUC) PLAN 8 One of the major goals of the Urban Center Plan is to transform the area around the Westfield Southcenter Mall into a more attractive place for shop- ping, visiting, living and doing busi- ness. Another key goal of the TUC Plan is to preserve the position of the Southcenter area as one of the Puget Sound area's primary shopping centers. Currently, the Southcenter area is a major contributor of property and sales tax to the City. But competition from other south -end cities could undercut Tukwila's market share of commercial and retail activity. The City has an op- portunity, with both private and public developments proposed for the next several years (mall expansion, a new transit center, a permanent commuter rail station, expansion of I-405, light rail), to transition the Southcenter area i from a conventional suburban shop- ping area into a more urban pattern of mid -rise buildings with a diverse mix of uses, including housing, parks and trails and walkable streets. For more information about this project, contact Lynn Miranda at 206-433-7162. applications to divide property into additional building sites (governed by the Subdivision Code), and work with the City's Planning Commission to improve the design of commercial and multifamily projects. DCD also administers the City's recycling and commute trip reduction programs. To keep informed about projects that are under review by the City, there is a link on the City's website — www ci.tukwila. wa.us — under City Business, labeled "Tukwila Construction and Development Projects" that lists current development projects and provides a description and contact person. There is also a link on the Development Projects page to a map that will geographically identify the location of projects that are under review by DCD. Or, you can call the Department at 206-431-3670 to talk to a planner about zoning, develop- ment requirements or other planning issues. Highlighted here are some exciting projects — currently un- der review in DCD — that will shape how Tukwila develops in the coming years. Contact persons are also listed. WESTFIELD SOUTHCENTER MALL EXPANSION The mall is planning an expansion to include 289,517 sq. ft. of retail shops, 162,650 sq. ft. of anchor stores, a res- taurant and expanded food court, a 75,200 -sq. ft. movie theater and pos- sibly a 174,587 -sq. ft. hotel. The ex- pansion will extend the footprint of the shopping center generally to the south, towards Strander Boulevard, construct a second level of retail shops and pro- vide one or more parking structures for additional parking. For more informa- tion, contact Moira Bradshaw at 206- 431-3651. TUKWILA SOUTH ANNEXATION AREA Segale Properties is proposing a mixed- use development of up to 14 million sq. ft. on approximately 490 acres south of South 180th Street. Approxi- mately 217 acres of the project site are currently within the city limits of Tukwila with approximately 259 acres in unincorporated King County. The unincorporated area is proposed for an- nexation to the City. A draft Master Plan describing the type of develop- ment and the timing and proposed en- vironmental mitigation has been sub- mitted by Segale Properties to the City for review. The proposed development includes commercial, office, retail and residential uses. An environmental impact statement has been prepared for this project. For more information, contact Lisa Verner, at 206-431-3662. You can also check the legal notices section of the City's website, which will post notices about upcoming pub- lic meetings as well. THE HAZELNUT TUKWILA STATION This project will be an exciting addition to Tukwila's urban center — a multi- family project consisting of 291 units of one- and two-bedroom condomini- ums with 5,000 sq. ft. of retail space and below -ground parking. The devel- opment will be constructed just north of the Sounder commuter rail/Amtrak station off West Valley Highway and Longacres Way. For more information, contact Minnie Dhaliwal at 206-431- 3685. LINK LIGHT RAIL If you have traveled on Southcenter Boulevard west of I-5 recently, you will have seen that construction is under way for the Tukwila Freeway Route of Sound Transit's light rail project, which includes 4.9 miles of trackway, most of which is elevated and located in Washington State right-of-way. A sta- tion will be constructed at the corner of Southcenter Boulevard and Interna- tional Boulevard along with two park- and-ride lots. Sound Transit is holding meetings on the first Thursday of each month to inform the community about construction progress. You can access information about these meetings by going to the City's website, clicking on Development Projects, and following the prompts to the links to the Sound Transit website. The Sound Tran- sit website also has additional details about the overall project. For more information about this project, contact Nora Gierloff at 206-433-7141. In coming months the Department will begin another long range plan — the up- dating of the City's shoreline plan for the Green River. Stay tuned for details on how you can provide comments and ideas about this important project. NOVEMBER 2005 You Dirty Rat! Code Enforcement gets an increased number of calls in the autumn and spring regarding what may appear to be an "infestation" of these unwel- come rodents. Unfortunately, rats ex- ist in every part of the state, including our own neighborhoods. They can ruin food, destroy things in your home, and start electrical fires. It is the re- sponsibility of each property owner to take the steps necessary to "rat proof" their own property. Where do rats live outdoors? • Under wood piles or lumber that is not being used • Under bushes, vines and tall grasses that are not trimmed or cut back • Under rocks in the garden • In cars, appliances and furniture that have been discarded outside • In holes under buildings Where do rats live inside the home? • In the insulation of walls or ceilings • Inside crawl spaces • Behind or under cupboards, coun- ters, bathtubs and shower stalls • Near water heaters and furnaces • In basements, attics, and wherever things are stored in boxes, paper or cloth What foods bring rats into my yard and neighborhood? • Garbage that rats can get into, like garbage cans with loose lids, plastic or paper bags, and litter • Food for pets and birds that has not been eaten. Birdseed on the ground, pet food in pet dishes, etc. • Fruits and berries that have fallen to the ground • Compost piles or bins that aren't maintained. (do not put meat, fish, poultry or dairy in the compost) • Dog droppings What do rats eat when they get inside the house? • The same foods we do! • Foods, fats, oils that have been spilled and left on counters, floors, appliances and tables • Grains, like cereal, oats, rice and vegetables that are in cardboard boxes or plastic bags • Pet food in boxes or bags • Any garbage that is not in a can with a tight lid. Prevention is the key! • Always keep your yard clear of trash and fallen fruit • Use only approved compost bins • Never leave pet food or bird seed outside or accessible • Keep yards and alleys clean. • Keep garbage can lids closed tightly • Cover all openings to your house. Rats can get into very small places. • Keep your kitchen sink rinsed clean. • Pick up fruit and vegetables in your yard. • Stack firewood 18" off the ground and away from all buildings. If you see evidence of rats in your yard or home, you should take steps to elimi- nate the problem as quickly as possible, which may include getting in touch with a professional exterminator. 9 1 cLUhat's Jeuv(s) aCtiatala Senaces Human Services Office Evie — 206-433-7180 Stacy — 206-433-7181 Crisis Clinic (24-hour line) 206-461-3222 lonnocct Energy Assistance Program Beginning in mid-October, the Multi Service Center Energy Assistance pro- gram can provide one-time financial assistance and energy conservation ed- ucation to eligible low-income house- holds who have Puget Sound Energy as their main heating provider. The program serves both renting and ho- meowner clients. Payments are made directly to utility vendors on behalf of customers. It is expected that by mid- November, Federal funds will also be available (LIHEAP) for Seattle City Light Customers. The Energy Assistance hotline number is 1-800-348-7144. Appointments are made through an electronic answer- ing system. You will be given the first available appointment for your zip code, with instructions on paperwork that is necessary in order to complete your energy assistance application. Changes in Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage Individuals with limited incomes will receive additional premium and cost- sharing subsidies, in some cases aver- aging almost $2300, beginning in Janu- ary 2006. The benefit and cost-sharing depend on the individual's income and assets. Residents who are eligible will receive information from Social Securi- ty and Medicare about extra help with drug plan costs. All Medicare -eligible adults will need to make a decision about the new drug program begin- ning in November. If you would like more information on making this decision, contact Senior Information and Assistance at 206- 448-3110 or 1-800-435-3377. 10 Free Insulation and Energy Conservation Upgrades Does your home feel a bit too chilly in the winter? It may not be adequately insulated. HomeWise Weatherization Program may be the solution. The HomeWise program is a free in- sulation program that not only saves money, but improves the energy effi- ciency of your home. With adequate weatherization you can save money, save energy, keep warmer in the win- ter, stay cooler in the summer, improve indoor air quality, improve your home's value and help the environment. Eligibility is based on income qualifica- tions, source of heat must be electrical and located within Seattle City Light service area. Please call the intake line at 206-684-0244 for more information on the HomeWise Program. If you have other than electric heat, call King County Housing Authority Weather- ization Program at 206-493-3839. Helping hurricane victims Many are aware of the Hurricane Ka- trina evacuated individuals and families that are new to Washington state. Or- ganizations at all levels — state, county, local, community-based faith and non- profits — have assessed their strengths and mobilized to provide immediate assistance to our newly arrived guests. Electronic resource information is widely available now. People looking to help, as well as those seeking help, can find informa- tion through the Crisis Clinic at 206- 461-3222, or on their website at www. crisisclinic.org. In addition, the City of Tukwila Website has posted informa- tion under Special Notices. This infor- mation is updated periodically. Many thanks to our local faith -based groups, as well as the International Rescue Committee who have been providing lots of assistance to the fami- lies. Also, many thanks go to the lo- cal businesses that have contributed clothes, food and supplies. Are your $$ going out through the roof? Many homes built before the 1980s still have insufficient or even no roof insulation. Increasing the insulation in roof attics may reduce the energy consumption for these homes by more than half. The cost of upgrading attic insulation for the average 1,000 -square foot home is roughly $400 to $700. Because of home heating oil and natural gas prices being at all-time highs, along with Americans' desire to become less dependent on foreign oil, the City of Tukwila has enacted a FREE attic inspection program to assist our citizens in determining their roof insulation needs. Fixed-income individuals and low-income families may also receive assistance in contacting agencies to cover or offset the attic insulation costs. Contact the Tukwila Building Department at 206-431-3670 to schedule your free inspection. Saturday inspections may be available by appointment and conducted with staff volunteers. THE HAZELNUT TU KWI LA REPLACE WITH RECYCLING REPORTER Energy Savings at Home: Tanks a lot! As energy costs increase, we're all looking for ways to conserve. The water heater consumes about 20% of the energy used in the average U.S. home and has a huge impact on the environment. Here are some simple ways to save energy (and money) with your water heater. Adjust the temperature setting on the heater to 120°F (or 130° if you have a dishwasher). There are two thermostats that should be set the same. Use a ther- mometer at the faucet to check water temperature, since the heater dial is usually inaccurate. After turning off power to the tank, place your hand on the water heater. If the tank feels warm, install an insulating blanket around it, available at hardware stores. The colder the location, the greater the heat loss. Insulate the hot and cold water pipes leaving the tank for at least the first five feet, keeping insulation three inches from gas flues wherever they are accessible. Foam sleeves or adhesive -backed foam tape are available at hardware stores. Install a heat trap — a U-shaped detour in the pipe leav- ing your water heater — to keep hot water from circulat- ing through the line when no one is using water. Use flexible copper tubing or purchase a screw-in heat trap. Electric water heaters should be turned off if you leave home for more that a few nights. It takes about four hours to reheat the water when it is turned on. Source: Seattle City Light Natural yard care through the seasons Here are some activities to undertake during the winter months to keep your yard and garden in shape naturally. Flower and Vegetable Gardens: • Rake winter leaf mulch back onto beds if the wind blows it off. • Weed beds once during winter to prevent weeds going to seed. Tree and Shrub Beds • Prune fruit trees and other woody trees and shrubs while they're dormant. Most of all, winter is the time to plan for spring! To keep your "green thumb": • Tune up yard equipment, sharpen mower blades. • Plan drip irrigation or soaker hoses for beds and containers to conserve water. • Check storage areas for unwanted chemicals, and dispose safely. Call the Hazards Line at 206-296-4692 for disposal info. • Plan to replace plants that have disease or pest problems. • Call the Natural Lawn & Garden Hotline, 206-633-0224 to ask questions and request free brochures to start planning for spring. Or read more at www.seattletilth.org Discounted rain barrels still available Tukwila residents still have a chance to buy a rain barrel from the City of Tukwila at the greatly discounted price of $20. Quantities are very limited. Sample barrels are on display at Tukwila City Hall and at the Tukwila Commu- nity Center. The City of Tukwila web- site www.ci.tukwila.wa.us has a bar- rel photo and specifications. Rain barrels may be purchased by mail only. You can send an order form and payment to Dynamex, a local delivery company, and the barrel will be sent directly to your home. (Note: Dynamex provides the storage and delivery of the Raincatcher and is not able to provide barrel assistance or spare parts. The City of Tukwila does not have a supply of barrels.) Pick up an order form at Tukwila City Hall or the Tukwila Community Cen- ter; or print one out from our website: www ci.tukwila.wa.us; or call 206- 433-7178 to request an order form. You may pay by check or credit card (Visa, MasterCard, and American Ex- press only); cash will not be accepted. Order forms must be mailed with pay- ment prior to receiving the rain barrel. Tukwila residents only. One Raincatch- er per household. Delivery must be made to a Tukwila residential address. Supplies are very limited... first come, first served. No refunds. Got any great ideas for saving energy? Send in your suggestions for conservation at home, at work or in the car, and we'll print them in the Resource Reporter! NOVEMBER 2005 11 CITY DIRECTORY TUKWILA CITY HALL 6200 Southcenter Boulevard Hours: Monday—Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm Telephone: 206-433-1800 Fax number: 206-433-1833 TTY number: 206-248-2933 Website: http://www.citukwila.wa.us E-mail: tukwila@citukwila.wa.us TUKWILA CITY COUNCIL Joe H. Duffle (beeper #J 206-994-7229 Joan Hernandez 206-248-0260 Pam Carter 206-244-0558 Jim Haggerton 206-244-7846 Pamela Linder, Pres. 206-439-2473 Dennis Robertson 206-242-6373 Dave Fenton 206-246-4980 Lucy Lauterbach, Analyst 206-433-1834 Council Message Line 206-431-3652 CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS 7:OOPM in Council Chambers Regular Meetings 1st/3rd Mondays Work Meetings 2nd/4th Mondays Agenda Info Line 206-431-3656 CITY OFFICES Mayor Steve Mullet 206-433-1805 Rhonda Berry, City Admin 206-433-1851 Municipal Court 206-433-1840 Human Services 206-433-7180 Economic Development 206-433-1832 Tourism/Marketing 206-575-2489 Finance Department Kevin Fuhrer, Director 206-433-1838 Fire Department Nick Olivas, Chief 206-575-4404 Dept. of Community Development Steven Lancaster, Director 206-431-3670 Code Enforcement 206-431-3682 Parks/Recreation Department Bruce Fletcher, Director 206-767-2342 Police Department David Haynes, Chief 206-433-1808 Public Works Department Jim Morrow, Director 206-433-0179 Dept. of Administrative Services VkiJessop, Director 206-433-1831 City Clerk's Office Personnel City Job Line Emergency Fire, Police 911 TUKWILA COMMUNITY CENTER 12424 - 42nd Avenue South Recreation Division 206-768-2822 Senior Center/Services 206-767-2323 TUKWILA CITY POOL 4414 S. 144th Street 206-267-2350 Foster Golf Links 13500 Interurban Avenue South Pro Shop 206-242-4221 Restaurant 206-241-5784 206-433-1800 206-433-1831 206-433-1828 THE HAZELNUT newsletter is published five times a year by the City of Tukwila, and written by City staff Editing/production: Stacia Norris Summary of 2006-201 1 Proposed Financial Planning Model and Capital Plan REVENUES Sales Tax $112,382,000 Property Tax 68,077,000 Other Revenues 98,399,000 (Taxes, charges for services, grants, interest, transfers, etc.) Capital grants and mitigations 28,642,000 Total 2006-2011 Revenues $307,500,000 EXPENDITURES Operations and Maintenance ...$256,835,000 CAPITAL: Residential Streets Parks and Trails Bridges Commercial Streets 18,453,000 General Government 5,060,000 Debt Service 12,402,000 Administration/Engineering 6,885,000 Projected Ending Balance 3,231,000 Total Expenditures $307,500,000 2,255,000 1,539,000 840,000 ENTERPRISE FUNDS Totals for the Enterprise Funds for the 2006- 2011 period are shown below: Water $31,897,000 Sewer 32,794,000 Surface Water 20,175,000 Foster Golf Course 13,813,000 TOTAL $98,679,000 SIGNIFICANT PROJECTS, ALL FUNDS, FOR 2006 • Neighborhood traffic Calming Program • Annual Overlay Program • Completion of Tukwila International Blvd. • Allentown/Foster Point — Water, sewer, surface water Further information Copies of the preliminary 2006 Budget and Proposed 2006-2011 Financial Planning Model and Capital Plan are available at the City Clerk's office at Tukwila City Hall, 6200 Southcenter Boulevard. For more information concerning the details of either document, please contact the Kevin Fuhrer, Tukwila Finance Director, at 206-433-1835. THE HAZELNUT City of Tukwila 6200 Southcenter Blvd. Tukwila, WA 98188 Postmaster: If named addressee has moved, deliver to current resident. PRESORT STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID SEATTLE, WA PERMIT NO. 12698 To help us correct addresses or eliminate duplicates, please call 206-433-1800.