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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2002-07-08 Committee of the Whole MinutesCITIZEN COMMENT /CORRESPONDENCE: TUKWILA CITY COUNCIL July 8, 2002 Tukwila City Hall Council Chambers COMMITTEE OF WHOLE MEETING MINUTES 7:00 p.m. CALL TO ORDER /PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Calling the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m., Council President Richard Simpson led the flag salute. COUNCIL ATTENDANCE: Present were Council President Richard Simpson; and Councilmember Joe Duffie, Joan Hernandez, Pam Carter, Jim Haggerton, and David Fenton. Councilmember Pamela Linder was absent. OFFICIALS: Steven M. Mullet; Mayor; John McFarland, City Administrator, Lucy Lauterbach, Legislative Analyst; Bob Baker, Deputy City Clerk; Jim Morrow, Public Works Director; Frank Iriarte, Public Works Coordinator and Ryan Larson, Public Works Senior Engineer. Robert Euler, 15220 40 th Avenue South, Tukwila, spoke regarding a Request For Action (RFA) filed with Code Enforcement on May 28, 2002. One of Mr. Euler's neighbors has weeds in their yard, and when the weeds go to seed, they produce more seeds. With prevailing westerly winds, the excess seeds blow onto Mr. Euler's property. He spends much time digging the weeds out of his lawn, thus creating a nuisance for him. After hearing nothing from City staff related to the RFA, Mr. Euler visited Code Enforcement staff today to learn "no code violation" has been committed. Quoting from the Tukwila Municipal Code, Mr. Euler believes the weeds (although not noxious) are a nuisance. Mr. McFarland noted he would follow up on the matter for Mr. Euler with Code Enforcement staff. Mr. Haggerton suggested additional discussions with the neighbor to bring a resolution to this matter. SPECIAL ISSUES: a. Interlocal Agreement Administration of the Green River Flood Control Zone District Jim Morrow, Public Works Director, informed Council that the current Interlocal agreement for the administration of the Green River Flood Control Zone District (GRFCZD) expires on June, 2002. The GRFCZD is responsible for maintaining and operating flood protection facilities on the lower Green /Duwamish River within its boundaries for all publicly owned facilities and within easements on privately owned facilities. In Tukwila, the boundary encompasses the area from the Tukwila International Bridge over the Duwamish River to the southern City limits. It was in 1978 that King County and the Cities of Auburn, Kent, Renton, and Tukwila signed the original Interlocal. In 1990, King County passed a resolution activating the District's taxing authority and established the first budget and tax levy for the GRFCZD. Finally, in 1992, the Interlocal agreement between the parties was renewed for a ten -year period. Although functionally identical to the 1992 Interlocal agreement, the newly proposed agreement has been re- worded for easier understanding. Mr. Morrow spoke in favor of Council approving the Interlocal agreement at the next City Council Regular meeting. Ryan Larson, Senior Engineer, reported a letter went to all jurisdictions within the flood control district to determine whether or not interest exists (from non participating jurisdictions) to join into the Interlocal agreement. No response was received from any jurisdiction. City of Tukwila City Council Committee of Whole Minutes Council consensus existed to forward this issue to the IuIv 15 Regular meeting for action. b. Feasibility Report Citywide Connectivity Project Page 2 of 6 July 8, 2002 For the record, Mayor Mullet noted, the previous Interlocal agreement with the other cities is probably the reason why Tukwila has "a jump" on others. The City has spent so much time working together on river problems and projects that when the concept of forums and interlocal agreements for ESA issues came up, the main cities along the river were already tied into the issue and ready to sign on. Mr. Morrow fielded questions from the Council and will create another coversheet/memorandum for the July 15 Regular meeting, answering questions posed (i.e., current Chair of the Committee, a short summary of how the City has benefited from this Interlocal agreement, positive effects of the Interlocal agreement, etc.). Councilmember Fenton reported attendance to each of the connectivity meetings to determine specifics with regard to the deployment of a fiber optic, citywide, gigabit Ethernet network possibility. Additionally discussed was how best to make it available to all residents and businesses within Tukwila. A gigabit Ethernet is 1,000 times faster than a T1 line, which is potentially twice as fast as a DSL line. He reminded Council that Phase I and Phase II are completed and the City is facing Phase III. Thus, it is time to review whether the City will extend the contract with Asset Analytics, and determine if Phase III should be implemented. Mayor Mullet reminded Council that connectivity was a key issue /point in the Strategic Economic Development Plan. Although Tukwila is not the only City undertaking connectivity issues, many meetings have been held, and it is realized that if this is one of the advantages we want for Tukwila, we must be on the front edge of the operation. Mayor Mullet views this as something which gives the City economic advantages and opportunities for new residents moving in, businesses, and a whole new level of competitiveness to the issues. And, offering an array of services through the fiber lines may actually result in a cost reduction to residential services. Although a current recession exists, the City is in the planning stages and not currently looking to construct. Finally, Mayor Mullet noted this is the time to move forward. Finding appropriate financing will be key to implementing the plan. Jim Morrow, Public Works Director, provided the history of the connectivity project thus far and reminded Council that Asset Analytics, Incorporated, (David Luman) was hired to address the feasibility issue and possible options to implement the project. Additionally, Mr. Morrow noted several scenarios have been put together and would be presented to the Council to show possibilities in making this be a revenue neutral project for the City of Tukwila. City staff and elected officials do not want residents to fund this network, however the City might accomplish that goal. David Luman, Asset Analvtics, Incorporated Sherwood Oregon, reported attendance to a recent conference wherein several cities were represented (30 and discussed the topic of connectivity. Attendees felt fiber optic networks are a positive economic development ploy for their entities. To that end, conveners came up with several points on why they should consider fiber optic networks. Generally, it was felt connectivity would make a city more desirable in which to live and work; jobs would be created to support the system; enriched commerce would exist; children would have opportunities to be technologically current; education access for all; health issues can be dealt with online (both physicians and patients have seen circumstances such as the one in Boston, MA where a physician was able to guide a physician in Brazil through an operation); and it prepares the entity for the future; and sustainability. Mr. Luman noted that if a City moves forward now, people will move here and the City will be "ahead of the game." Otherwise, it is his assumption that the City would be conspicuous because it hadn't moved forward. From an economic development standpoint, fiber optic networks attract business relocations; upper scale residents; provides greater bandwidth (ability to transmit data in and out of the City to other parts of the world); creates teleconferencing opportunities and intranet possibilities for businesses located within the City; City of Tukwila City Council Committee of Whole Minutes Page 3 of 6 July 8, 2002 telecommuters; and SOHO (small office home office) individuals and people who take work home with them. In this proposal, the City of Tukwila would serve as a wholesaler for an outsourced service. The City would provide price competition, with a potentially more superior product. Cities get involved typically because they do not get co- operation from the incumbent providers (telephone companies or video providers [cable TVJ); and they view it as a "fourth utility" after streets, sewers and powers. Customer service also becomes a driving force. Incumbents see no reason to keep prices down when they are the monopoly in town. They see no reason to provide product choices or infrastructure upgrades. Additionally, the incumbents see no reason to bring technology or upgrades to a town where there is no competition. Cities are able to bring competition through product pricing, content offered (voice, telephone, satellite TV, video and data), service response, quality, bandwidth, stability and customer service. For these specific reasons, cities are finding it more and more as a reason to become involved. Since February of 2002, Asset Analytics, Inc., has worked with the City and members of the Connectivity Advisory Group (CAG). Together they have played a significant role in determining what services would be provided and what options are available for deploying the network. Phase I accomplishments include conducting an inventory of the current/planned fiber optic capability; completion of the initial analysis and a refined scope of network proposal. Phase II accomplishments include identifying options for making the project revenue neutral; establishing technical specifications for the Network Operations Center; proposal of a network configuration and defining several business models and funding strategies for consideration. Although a decision to proceed with Phase III is pending, anticipated objectives are to oversee a survey and interpret the results; if survey findings support a demonstration project, the primary fiber optical network would be deployed to a "North Backbone" and subsequent "South Backbone." Staff would recruit providers to offer a full array of network services (telephone, cable TV, video on demand, internet connections), oversight of the installation of core network components and providing initial connections. The initial backbone deployment area (North) will go from City Hall to Tukwila International Boulevard and include the schools and fire station; Interurban Avenue to include the Fort Dent Office Park, Gateway Office Park to the Tukwila Community Center. The overall distance is 30,948 feet or 5.86 miles of fiber. Next, Mr. Luman discussed several possible financial scenarios that illustrated the startup costs to ready the network for customers and City services. The scenarios were based upon the number of customers plus network installation /operation and the cost to the subscriber from service providers to the City. A proposed utility tax of 5% may be imposed to assist with defraying costs. The City will experience a negative cash flow in the beginning stages of installing the network components. Initially, customers will provide offsetting revenues for the City. Although there is no certainty with respect to the number of Tukwila businesses or residences who will actually become customers, short of the indications the survey will provide, it is not unreasonable to expect up to a 40% participation rate. Cash flow statements presented illustrated expenses and revenues for each of the four scenarios; all of which assume bonded debt service to pay for the deployment. With 9,500 potential customers in Tukwila, 2,000 are businesses (the largest consumers of network services). It is anticipated that the City will provide service to 1,500 users in a very short time. Mr. Luman informed Council of a proposed test/pilot site at the Tukwila Community Center; wherein business leaders and community members would be invited to test the system's abilities. The demo test site would come at no cost to the City; and would feasibly be used as a marketing tool for businesses; and will be placed at the Community Center at no charge to the City of Tukwila. City of Tukwila City Council Committee of Whole Minutes c. Bid Award Outfall Repair Program Council consensus existed to forward this item to the IuIv 15 Regular meeting for action. Page 4 of 6 July 8, 2002 To proceed with Phase III objectives, the City may retain the services of Asset Analytics, Inc., in the amount of $8,000.00 per month, plus expenses, for direct work and project oversight. Although the number of months necessary is not known at this time, Mr. McFarland informed Council a "not to exceed" clause will be added to the contract. Completion of this final interim phase will position the City to make a "go /no -go" decision before initial deployment begins on the network. Asset Analytics, Inc. proposes to move through Phase III quickly, which will serve to keep the general momentum going that has been built up in anticipation of turning up the network. And, AAI will continue to work on the econometric model to help the City quantify the true value of providing high -speed connectivity to its citizens and businesses. Mr. Morrow noted refined scenarios, additional information, refined costs of AAI of months, etc.) will be returned to the Council at a future meeting, before a decision is made on whether or not to proceed to Phase III. Mayor Mullet spoke in favor of fully using the fiber that is laid. The necessary one -time investment and general upkeep costs brings the City tremendous abilities in terms of utilities and other operations. Possibilities for the use of the fiber could include controlling pump stations (remotely); automatic meter reading and synchronized lights. Speaking from experience, Mayor Mullet noted he's learned that times must be set to get things done and he is "chomping" to get this done. It's time to reach the next point and have Council determine whether or not they're going to move ahead with this issue. In response to a question from Councilmember Haggerton, John McFarland noted the project deployment cost of roughly $650,000.00 includes the cost of Mr. Luman's contract (anticipated for 12 months); cost of the survey and costs of the initial deployment. Council consensus existed to forward this item to the IuIv 15 Regular meeting for review of new cost figures, options and further discussion. Ryan Larson, Senior Engineer, Public Works Department, informed Council of the need to repair three outfalls. With the brush being cut every summer, a determination is made as to which outfalls may be failing. Three such necessary repairs were found in 2001. The three outfalls needing repair are located 1) at the end of the Duwamish area; 2) at the end of 48t Avenue; and 3) across the river in the Foster Point area. Pictures were provided to Council showing the need for repairs. Existing are 76 outfalls throughout Tukwila. City staff is aware of the three previously mentioned as well as one additional outfall (Pal Creek north area of Tukwila). These repairs were originally included in the 2001 Small Drainage Project list with KPG. Since all three outfalls involve work on the banks of the Duwamish River, construction during 2001 was not possible due to permitting issues and the anticipated limited fish window (a time specified by the Washington State Department of Fisheries wherein you may work in a river, so as not to affect the fish in the river). Permitting and final design for each of the projects was completed in 2002. In view of the fact only one bid was received, Mr. Larson contacted several plan holders who did not submit proposals. Of the three who responded, they noted a bid was not submitted due to current workloads or time and /or crew restrictions as it relates to completing the work in the limited fish window. Noted was the fact work must be done during low tides and in a limited workspace. Funds to pay for this project are derived from the Small Drainage projects fund. Cost to the bidder is $138,112.05, for repair of all three outfalls. City of Tukwila City Council Committee of Whole Minutes REPORTS: a. Mayor Page 5 of 6 July 8, 2002 Mayor Mullet reported receipt of many kudos and thanks for the City of Tukwila's first Family Fourth at the Fort celebration. He then reported tree cutting today in the 1/8 -mile radius (for the Citrus Longhorned Beetle). Anyone calling for information on this subject should be referred to the Washington State Department of Agriculture. The only reason Tukwila's Police Department may become involved is some citizens may refuse to allow access onto property for cutting of their trees. Finally, Mayor Mullet reported an Economic Update Breakfast on July 19 and invited any of the Councilmembers to attend. Mr. Fenton volunteered. b. Council Councilmember Duffie noted a great 4` of July celebration at Fort Dent Park. Additionally, he spoke in favor of Tukwila taking possession of Fort Dent Park, from King County. Councilmember Hernandez enjoyed the 4` of July with family and was able to catch the tail end of the Tukwila fireworks display after seeing an event in Tacoma. Council President Simpson attended the Transportation Committee meeting in Pamela Linder's stead this evening. He reported joy with the 4` of July event at Fort Dent Park. Mr. Simpson also asked who might be attending the NLC Conference, in Salt Lake City, Utah, in December 2003. Councilmembers Carter and Haggerton responded affirmatively. Councilmember Duffie, Hernandez and Mr. Simpson answered in the negative. Discussion then took place on hotel costs, registration, etc. Councilmember Carter attended a July 2 Suburban Cities Association representatives meeting on regional transit issues; and a Transportation Committee meeting this evening. She, too, reported enjoyment with the 4' of July celebration sponsored by the City of Tukwila. Next, Ms. Carter noted Jim Morrow will be scheduling a "field trip" for various Councilmembers to view traffic circles and progress being made on the South 180` Street grade separation project. Finally, she reported debris is being left on the roadway by the Department of Agriculture, after cutting down trees. Councilmember Haggerton noted his neighborhood was "rowdy" on the 4` of July. He also noted attendance to a July 3 Regional Policy Committee meeting. Finally, he reported receipt of a telephone call from the Tacoma News Tribune asking for a comment on the tree cutting issues and Citrus Longhorned Beetle. He noted no interview took place. Councilmember Linder was absent. Councilmember Fenton noted a "phenomenal" 4` of July celebration at Fort Dent Park by the City of Tukwila. It was so good that some vendors reported running out of food before the end of the event. b. City Staff John McFarland, City Administrator, noted the Police Department received 28 fireworks complaints this year, which is a reduction from numbers provided in the past two years. One formal citation was issued. Next, Mr. McFarland reported the City is looking for ways to locally control Fort Dent Park. Of interest is a way to make the park revenue neutral to the City of Tukwila and the citizens of the City as well. Currently, the park is operated at a $400,000.00 loss per year to King County. Noteworthy, however, a private group has come forward with a proposal to manage the park under a contract with the City. Finally, Mr. McFarland noted Lucy Lauterbach would arrange a tour of the new building for Fatigue Technologies. City of Tukwila City Council Committee of Whole Minutes Lucy Lauterbach noted action in Washington D.C., by the telecommunications industry, to try and take over cities' rights of way as it relates to access of communication lines, leaving cities with no say in those matters. More information will follow. EXECUTIVE SESSION: None. 9:08 p.m. DUFFIE MOVED; HERNANDEZ SECONDED; TO ADJOURN THE COMMITTEE OF WHOLE. The motion carried 6 -0. Richard Simpson, Councresident d. Intergovernmental t at 1 11a_ Robert H. Baker, CMC, Deputy City Clerk Date minutes signed: July 15, 2002 Page 6 of 6 July 8, 2002