Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2004-10-04 Regular MinutesCALL TO ORDER/PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Calling the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. and leading the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance was Steven M. Mullet, Mayor. ROLL CALL: Calling the roll of Council was Bob Baker, Deputy City Clerk. Present were Jim Haggerton, Council President; and Councilmembers Joe Duffie, Joan Hernandez, Pam Carter, Pamela Linder, Dennis Robertson and David Fenton. OFFICIALS: Steven M. Mullet, Mayor; Rhonda Berry, City Administrator; Shelley Kerslake, City Attorney; Lucy Lauterbach, Legislative Analyst; Bob Baker, Deputy City Clerk; Nick Olivas, Chief of Fire; Bruce Fletcher, Director of Parks and Recreation; Alan Doerschel, Director of Finance; Steve Lancaster, Director of Community Development; Jim Morrow, Director of Public Works; Bob Giberson, Acting City Engineer; Carol Lumb, Rebecca Fox and Minnie Dhaliwal, Senior Planners, Department of Community Development. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS: TUKWILA CITY COUNCIL October 4, 2004 7:00 p.m. Tukwila City Hall Council Chambers REGULAR MEETING MINUTES a. Liberty Mutual Insurance Firemark Award (Presented posthumously to Jack Stevens, Firefighter) Nick Olivas, Fire Chief, called this occasion "very happy and yet very sad." He stated the Department is very proud of Jack and misses him greatly. He introduced Ms. Andrea Sepersaht, Liberty Mutual representative. Proud to participate in this program and to present this prestigious award, Ms. Sepersaht called Jack Stevens a "great and courageous man; a leader and an icon in his community. He was a hero." On behalf of Liberty Mutual Insurance, she expressed sympathy "to all who knew this great man and who was touched by his life and heart." The insurance company representative read the following into the record. "This is for you, Jack Stevens. No matter the day or night. No matter the time or place. The light comes to us in different shapes and different sizes. Unexpected and full of lure, it comes to consume us, to defeat us, and to destroy us. But as the full moon soars throughout, there is another light I see. It's so bright, so shiny, as if an angel had appeared. And, then I see you, in all your uniformed glory and I cry, and I smile, knowing that you're my angel, my hero." With that, she presented the Liberty Mutual Insurance Firemark Award to Mrs. Jack Stevens. Into the record, Mrs. Stevens read the following: "My husband, Jack, lived his life serving others. He gave of himself without hesitation. He lived by the motto, 'to always try and do the right thing.' The day the accident happened, Jack did not know he would lose his life. What he did know was that he had to make sure the passenger on his bike was safe. That passenger was his grandson, Jacob Tyler, whom he loved unconditionally. But the truth of the matter is, Jack would have done the same for anyone who was riding with him. That's how Jack was. Jack left a legacy of service and devotion to his fellow man. City of Tukwila Page 2 of 11 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes October 4, 2004 He lived his life with joy and abundance, zest and passion, with conviction and humility. And, he always wore a smile. Although Jack is already reaping his reward in Heaven, I am honored to accept this award in honor of my loving husband. Thank you and God bless everyone." b. Arts Commission Annual Update Brian Kennedy Brian Kennedy, Arts Commission Chair, presented an annual activities update to Council. Among other accomplishments, the Arts Commission purchased several paintings at the Tukwila Days Art Show, provided funding assistance to the water fountain at Foster Golf Links, Music in the Park Concert Series and Tukwila Days entertainment. In addition to reviewing the Sound Transit art for the proposed Station at South 154 Street, the Commission was also responsible for two performances at the Foster Performing Arts Center within the past 12 months. Looking ahead, Mr. Kennedy announced an anticipated mural to be drawn and painted at the City of Tukwila Pool. A small sculpture is also being commissioned. Finally, the Chair noted plans to obtain funding for a "possible arts center" through grants or other sources. With that, Mr. Kennedy fielded questions, comments, and compliments from Council for the continued efforts of the Arts Commission. Bruce Fletcher, Director of Parks and Recreation, introduced Aleta Tustison and Bill Gorjance, other members of the Arts Commission present. Relative to previous comments about proposed artwork at the Sound Transit Link Light Rail Station, Mr. Fletcher remarked staff was very specific in informing Sound Transit (Carol Valente) that the Arts Commission was not an approving body, but an advisory body to the Council on the proposed artwork. Sound Transit acknowledged that in related correspondence. In the end, Mr. Fletcher noted, any decision lies with the Council. c. StarFire Update re: Fort Dent Park Chris Slatt, StarFire Sports Christopher G. Slatt, Chairman and CEO of StarFire Sports, provided Council with an historical review and update on progress made since approaching the City (in November, 2002) with his vision. That vision was to create "a magical place, environment and situation in Tukwila" for kids and adults, alike, by refurbishing the then closed Fort Dent Park. Since his initial presentation to Council, Mr. Slatt and his group have created new soccer fields and re- covered the existing grandstands and have updated the softball complex In November, 2004, StarFire will open a new 80,000 square foot athletic center. Describing partnership results as fantastic, Mr. Slatt noted StarFire provides athletic fields for local Tukwila residents, provides reduced fee or free use to area youth and non profit groups, provides scholarships for kids and free use of the park for the City's Fourth of July festival. Mr. Slatt proudly stated StarFire has created the finest INCLUSIVE soccer and softball athletic complex in the state, drawing over 300,000 visitors per year. To date, StarFire has spent $13,283,000.00 to include $9.6 million for new fields and facilities, $670,000 for park infrastructure, $915,000 for sales tax, $100,000 for permit fees, $62,500 for water, $47,500 for electricity and $1.9 million for maintenance and programs. The City of Tukwila and StarFire Sports received a $100,000 grant from the Seattle Mariners and the Boeing Company to renovate the softball complex restrooms and to make additional improvements to the City of Tukwila Page 3 of 11 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes October 4, 2004 complex. The grant was presented before the first ball was pitched at a Seattle Mariner's game on October 1, 2004. Showing before and after photos, Mr. Slatt noted StarFire has just begun to "get the kids involved who are left out of after school activities," "...get kids of all color and means to play together," "...increase kids' exposure to colleges for scholarships," and "put smiles on kids' faces." Julie Cain, Founder and Executive Officer of Seattle Scores, a non profit organization, spoke highly of partnering with StarFire Sports. Since partnering, her program may be found in three Tukwila elementary schools and working with over 100 children on a daily basis, as they combine facets of creative writing, community service and soccer. Seattle Scores is granted use of the StarFire facilities at no charge. "Sabrina," Tukwila youth, read an A -B -Cs of soccer poem which she had written. "Stephen," Tukwila youth, answered various questions asked by Ms. Cain as it relates to his school and his personal choice to play soccer instead of baseball. Dan Roushe, principal of Cascade View Elementary, spoke of a great and positive relationship between Seattle Scores and StarFire. He said kids are held accountable for studies at school, and play to their best ability and potential on the soccer fields. He stated appreciation for StarFire Sports and the City of Tukwila. Lita Donnell. Manager. the Dolphins soccer team, spoke of creating and maintaining a great relationship with StarFire. She thanked the City of Tukwila for allowing Mr. Slatt to live out his dream. Alice Tusk and friend "Rochelle" TOPSoccer moms, spoke of TOPSoccer as a special needs group allowed to play soccer with an equal opportunity as those without special needs. The ladies thanked StarFire for donating fields on Saturdays and encouraged all Councilmembers to come watch and "be a buddy" and "see the children grow." Gina Nielson, parent of two children in Seattle Scores. thanked StarFire and the City for allowing the kids to enjoy playing on excellent fields and within excellent facilities. Mayor Mullet reported that when Mr. Slatt came to the Council, everyone realized he had a huge vision. Speaking highly of the StarFire success, the Mayor said Mr. Slatt and his staff, as well as City staff, should be highly commended for making the dream a reality. d. Tukwila Library Update and Status Report Councilmember Robertson reviewed the Tukwila Library Plan (the Plan) and related Interlocal Agreement between the King County Rural Library District and the City of Tukwila. Said proposed agreement was drafted by library staff and approved as to form by the City Attorney's Office. In response to City Administration and Council, KCLS Boardmembers have devised a plan to address concerns regarding declining services at the Tukwila Library. The Plan includes such things as increasing the number of hours the library is open per week (from 19 to 34) and improving the scope of books, DVD's, CD's, and audio books. KCLS will also develop a new floor layout to provide additional shelving and furniture. Additional computers are also to be added to those which currently are in place. Next, KCLS will identify area seniors to participate in a "Founder's Club," providing personalized reading profiles and materials through the Traveling Library Center. Usage statistics will be maintained and made available to the City's Library Advisory Board. Communication between the City's Library Advisory Board and KCLS will be improved by KCLS representation at each meeting and communication with the City's newly established liaison, Bruce Fletcher. City of Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes Finally, KCLS has prepared a newly proposed Interlocal Agreement which will last for two years. At the conclusion of that agreement, the City of Tukwila will bow out of the agreement, and no longer serve as an intermediary between KCLS and community members. In return for these offers, KCLS challenges Tukwila area residents to use the library over the next two years. Additionally, they seek advertisements within The Hazelnut. Also, KCLS has asked that the City erect new signage leading to the library. Mayor Mullet reported the outcome of this situation to be much better than anticipated. He noted significant efforts on the part of everyone involved in the decision- making process. Steve Schneider. Chair, Library Advisory Board, noted the proposed Interlocal agreement sounds very positive and acknowledged the issues were both difficult and emotional to those involved. Additionally, he reported the Library Advisory Board will begin taking minutes at meetings to ensure all are kept informed. Councilmembers praised the efforts of those involved. They also spoke in favor of the proposed outcomes. Mayor Mullet said the proposed Interlocal Agreement will be routed through committee, COW and finally to a Regular meeting for action. PROCLAMATIONS /APPOINTMENTS: Confirm appointment of Kevin Fuhrer Finance Director Page 4 of 11 October 4, 2004 Mayor Mullet reported receipt of 30 applications for the position of Finance Director. From those, six individuals were selected for interviews. Confident with the final decision, Mayor Mullet was proud to present Kevin Fuhrer as being appointed to fill the position of Finance Director. Alan Doerschel, Finance Director, described it as a "privilege to introduce my replacement." Kevin Fuhrer comes to Tukwila from the City of Normandy Park, where he currently serves as Assistant City Manager. Like Mr. Doerschel, Kevin Fuhrer is a member of the Puget Sound Finance Officers Association. A graduate of Central Washington University, Mr. Fuhrer is a former Washington State Auditor, Tukwila School District employee, and four -year veteran of the United States Marines. HAGGERTON MOVED; HERNANDEZ SECONDED; TO CONFIRM APPOINTMENT OF KEVIN FUHRER TO THE POSITION OF FINANCE DIRECTOR. The motion carried 7 -0. Clerical Note: Mr. Fuhrer will begin employment November 1, 2004. CITIZEN COMMENT /CORRESPONDENCE: Jesse Woods, 3924 South 117 Street. Tukwila, spoke out against an incident involving the Tukwila Police Department and King County Animal Control. Citing issues of alleged unlawful arrest and detainment, and removal of his dogs, Mr. Woods stated no amount of money (alluding to a recent settlement offer) is worth his dogs' life or his time. Calling the situation "insulting and demeaning," Mr. Woods demanded written apologies from each of the officers involved. He promised to return if his demand is not met. Shelley Kerslake, City Attorney, informed Council this legal matter is being handled by the City's insurance carrier, Washington Cities Insurance Authority. Mayor Mullet offered his apologies to Mr. Woods. City of Tukwila Page 5 of 11 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes October 4, 2004 Wayne Werle, 13921 56 Avenue South. Tukwila, asked Council if any consideration is currently being given to re- opening 130 Place and 56 Avenue South. Noting it has been closed for "several years," Mr. Werle noted he would like to once again be able to use the road. Responding to Mr. Werle, Mayor Mullet noted there is "nothing on the books" in the immediate future to consider re- opening of the street. Councilmembers noted at least one public hearing was held and much citizen input was received regarding the dangerous conditions (speeding) on the street while opened. Additionally, Councilmember Duffie informed Mr. Werle he is the first citizen to seek re- opening of the road. JoAnne McManus, 5610 South 133` Street. Tukwila, informed Mr. Werle she lives in the area in question. She noted 2,700 cars used that road, every day, when it was open. Of those, most sped on the road, and many did not observe posted stop signs. Ms. McManus acknowledged she was the person responsible for obtaining signatures on the petition that ultimately led to the road's closure. CONSENT AGENDA: a. Approval of Minutes September 13, 2004 (Reg.) September 20, 2004 (Spe.) b. Approval of Vouchers #310593 310884, in the amount of $710,332.76 DUFFIE MOVED; HERNANDEZ SECONDED; TO ACCEPT THE CONSENT AGENDA AS PRESENTED.* CARTER MOVED; LINDER SECONDED; TO AMEND THE CONSENT AGENDA BY REMOVING THE SEPTEMBER 20, 2004 SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES (AS THEY HAVE NOT BEEN ROUTED FOR REVIEW). The motion to amend the consent agenda carried 7 -0. *The motion to accept the consent agenda, as amended, carried 7 -0. PUBLIC HEARINGS: Comprehensive Plan Amendments /Growth Management Act Amendments At the request of staff, citizen comments were taken by topic, including the Growth Management Act related amendments, natural environment/sensitive areas and annual amendments (i.e., Tukwila South and Sabey Corporation). Rebecca Fox, Senior Planner, provided background on each of the proposed amendments and information relative to the applicants. File L03 077 Tukwila Valley South Susan Carlson for La Pianta 8:17 p.m. Mayor Mullet opened the public hearing. Tavloe Washburn, Attorney, Foster Pepper Sheffelman, (present with Sue Carlson, on behalf of Segale Business Park) focused on the planning process and options, not specifics of the proposed amendments. He summarized the efforts which went into the choice of how to best structure the planning and phasing aspects and the specific planning tools to be used. Mr. Washburn noted the proposed amendments will encourage integrated planning of the Tukwila South area and broaden the vision of industrial land as part of the Master Plan, a more integrated multi -use proposal while still supporting existing uses allowed for the Tukwila South area, through a master plan, to be converted over time into a major new employment, commercial and residential area of the City. The proposal also calls for improvement of the City's transportation infrastructure, allows as part of an integrated multi -use master plan for residential development in the area, and calls for adoption of City of Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes Page 6 of 11 October 4, 2004 regulations that allow for flexible market driven transition of the area by use of the Master Plan, incentives and strategic investment in public improvements. Gina Vale, 12607 East Marginal Way South. Tukwila. raised an issue of concern with the applicant the existence of Pioneer Cemetery, in the proposed area of development. As part of the Historical Society, Ms. Vale noted even they do not have access to the cemetery or its records. Ms. Carlson assured Ms. Vale of her awareness of the cemetery. Georgina Kerr. 3834 South 116 Street. Tukwila. said this is "one of the last chunks of land" remaining in Tukwila. She cautioned those involved that special attention must be paid to the spot. As land is so rare in Tukwila, she called this particular piece "very unique and priceless." 8:36 p.m. Mayor Mullet closed the public hearing. File L03 -078 Map Change from Low Density Residential to Commercial /Light Industrial 8:37 p.m. Mayor opened the public hearing. Mike Hansen, on behalf of applicant Sabev Corporation, spoke in favor of amending the comprehensive plan and zoning designation map as outlined above. With the use of graphics boards and charts, Council was shown the specific location of the area in question. Acknowledging some are not in favor of the proposed amendments, Mr. Hansen assured those present that the intent is not to intrude into neighborhoods. Rebutting the Planning Commission's five reasons for denial, Hansen said the proposed rezone /re- designation "makes the best sense." Calling City staff "great stewards of land use and planning as a whole in Tukwila," Mr. Hansen reported that same staff legitimized the request. David Sabev. Sabev Corporation, admitted "internal fumbles of the ball," when they did not appear to testify during at least one Planning Commission meeting and apologized to Mike Hansen for "being thrown into the middle of this." Beyond that, however, Mr. Sabey noted the land in question is undeveloped, and that parking stalls are strongly desired for employees of the Homeland Security Department. Acknowledging this to be a difficult decision, Mr. Sabey said, "it's the right thing to do." Addressing questions of Council, Mr. Sabey and Mr. Hansen spoke of lot size, location, grading, security, lighting, and elevation ranges. Dennis Derickson, 1620 W. Marine View Drive. Everett, noted the elevation of the site could be viewed during an impending site viewing by the Council. The same site viewing will also answer many questions and provide reinforcement to statements made by Mr. Sabey and Mr. Hansen. Georgina Kerr. 3834 South 116 Street, Tukwila, spoke of being a proponent for buffers between commercial and residential areas, including the use of trees and shrubs. She spoke in support of any neighbor who does not want to see increased parking, noise and congestion so near their home. Gina Vale. 12607 East Marginal Way South, Tukwila, reported living on the "East Marginal end" of this project and said no barrier is there. She stated houses may be seen at eye level with the parking lot especially as provided in photographs provided by Sabey. She spoke against the proposed amendment. Greg Sherlock. 12435 Tukwila International Boulevard. Tukwila, spoke in opposition to the proposed rezone. He and his family have lived at the cited address for 70+ years. Admitting partnerships must exist, Mr. Sherlock stated boundaries must also be set. As a signer, Mr. Sherlock read and presented the following petition in opposition to the proposed amendments. City of Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes Page 7 of 11 October 4, 2004 "Statement Against the Proposal: As residents of the City of Tukwila, we strongly oppose the zoning proposals brought before the City of Tukwila by the Applicant and City Staff. We request that the City Council deny the Applicant and City Staffs zoning requests and recommendations. Instead, we request that no changes be made whatsoever to the current Zoning." The petition was signed by 24 parties. Mr. Sherlock informed Mr. Sabey that he is not opposed to the Sabey Corporation or their business in general. On the other hand, being a taxpayer, registered voter and citizen, he asked Council to recognize those facts and deny the request. Before leaving the podium, Mr. Sherlock informed Mr. Sabey of repeated attempts to have discontinued the practice of construction work commencing before 7:00 a.m. (in his neighborhood). Mr. Sherlock noted the practice has continued since early summer, 2004. "In good faith," he asked Mr. Sabey to order the practice stopped. Gina Nielsen 12527 35 Avenue South, Tukwila, on behalf of herself and parents (the Bernhardts), noted their interest in the issue is the potential impacts that could last a lifetime if the request is approved. Her name, and that of her father, appears on the previously mentioned petition, in opposition to the proposed amendments. Speaking favorably of the Sabey Corporation and their community efforts, Ms. Nielsen spoke specifically of their efforts to allow children to perform "salmon planting." For such things, she is appreciative. Conversely, however, Ms. Nielsen raised many points such as a change in standards with respect to setbacks and landscape buffers, changes in the community, no perceived public need for the proposed change, adequate parking already existing, decreased (residential) property values, and the perceived change of use for the site in its entirety from a small office building into "something far greater." Of great concern is the necessary additional lighting to the parking lot if allowed to be built. Said light would "flow over" onto her residence and those of her neighbors. Beth Cooke, 425 South 19 Street. Renton. owner of property which abuts the proposed site of rezone, spoke in opposition to the request. She made a point that long -term renters in the home she just purchased may want to move if the rezone is approved. Renters have remained in the home as a result of it being a fairly quiet and peaceful neighborhood. Ms. Cooke asked if the zoning is changed, would Sabey Corporation be able to place an entrance off /onto 34th. Additionally, referring to correspondence from Sabey, dated 9/17/04, she questioned their overall intentions. In further opposition to the proposed rezone, Ms. Cooke cited increased visibility of traffic and cars and the removal of natural barriers if parking stalls are allowed. Brian Kennedy 12802 37 Avenue South, Tukwila, neighborhood resident and signer to the mentioned petition, said security, potential illegal activity, and increased noise(s) are of concern. Having been an area resident for 25 years, Mr. Kennedy spoke of the need to wear earplugs to bed at night to absorb and distort noises currently heard. Dave Sabev provided a brief rebuttal as to a perceived "attack on credibility." He spoke of being an honest, truthful, good commercial and residential neighbor in the Tukwila community. He reminded those present that the issue at hand is "a few parking stalls." The Sabey Corporation does not want to make anyone's life unhappy. Grep Sherlock rebutted the rebuttal. In his words, "this all comes down to a neighborhood not wanting a parking lot." He asked Council to recognize the petition presented to the Deputy Clerk and to deny the request. 9:35 p.m. Mayor Mullet closed the public hearing. City of Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes File L04 -025 Growth Management- Related Amendments to the Comprehensive Plan The Planning Commission deliberated on these amendments June 10, 2004, and finalized related recommendations July 22, 2004. 9:36 p.m. Mayor Mullet opened the public hearing. No one signed in to address this issue. No one responded to two calls for comments. 9:37 p.m. Mayor Mullet closed the public hearing. Zoning Code and Comprehensive Plan amendments pertaining to Environmentally Sensitive Areas 9:38 p.m. Mayor Mullet opened the public hearing. Georgina Kerr. 3834 South 116 Street, Tukwila. spoke in support of City staffs efforts use of "best available science" to increase wetland buffers. 9:39 Mayor Mullet closed the public hearing. Steve Lancaster, Director of Community Development, noted Council may begin deliberating the issues at their October 11 meeting relative to the general Comprehensive Plan amendments and annual amendment requests. Other deliberations may follow on October 18 and 25. City staff is working diligently to meet a Growth Management Act imposed deadline of December 1, 2004. Shelley Kerslake, City Attorney, advised Council that because Sabey's proposed Comprehensive Plan change and related rezone are closely related (and the zoning issue is quasi judicial), they should refrain from taking in any additional information beyond that which was provided in the public forum. 9:45 p.m. Mayor Mullet declared a short recess. 10:00 p.m. Mayor Mullet reconvened the meeting. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: a. An ordinance amending land altering /grading regulations. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, ESTABLISHING LAND ALTERING /GRADING REGULATIONS WITHIN THE CITY; REPEALING ORDINANCE NOS. 1591; 1770 SECTION 12, 13, 14 AND 15; AND 1838 SECTION 15; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE DUFFIE MOVED; FENTON SECONDED; TO READ THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE BY TITLE ONLY. The motion carried 7 -0. Shelley Kerslake, City Attorney, read the title of the proposed ordinance. DUFFIE MOVED; FENTON SECONDED; TO ADOPT THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE AS PRESENTED. The motion carried 7 -0. APPROVED ORDINANCE #2062 Page 8 of 11 October 4, 2004 City of Tukwila Page 9 of 11 City Council Regular Meeting Minutes October 4, 2004 b. Authorize Mayor to sign a contract with Sargent Engineers in the amount of $74.252 for the Boeing Access Road Bridge Replacement Project HERNANDEZ MOVED; ROBERTSON SECONDED; TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO SIGN A CONTRACT WITH SARGENT ENGINEERS, IN THE AMOUNT OF $74,252, FOR THE BOEING ACCESS ROAD BRIDGE REPLACEMENT PROGRAM. The motion carried 7 -0. c. An ordinance granting vacation of a portion of Maule Avenue AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, VACATING MAULE AVENUE SOUTH FROM THE SOUTHERLY MARGIN OF SOUTH 143 STREET TO THE NORTHERLY MARGIN OF SOUTH 143 PLACE, LOCATED IN THE CITY OF TUKWILA; AMENDING THE OFFICIAL STREET MAP OF THE CITY; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. DUFFIE MOVED; FENTON SECONDED; TO READ THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE BY TITLE ONLY. The motion carried 7 -0. Shelley Kerslake, City Attorney, read the title of the proposed ordinance. DUFFIE MOVED; FENTON SECONDED; TO ADOPT THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE AS READ. The motion carried 7 -0. APPROVED ORDINANCE #2063 d. Finance Motions 1. A motion affirming an increase in the City's Utility Tax from 4% to 5 effective 1/1/05, per enabling Ordinance 1998, adopted 11/18/02. FENTON MOVED; CARTER SECONDED; TO AFFIRM AN INCREASE IN THE CITY'S UTILITY TAX FROM 4% TO 5 EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2005, PER ENABLING ORDINANCE 1998.* Discussion: In 2002, Council President Jim Haggerton voted in favor of Ordinance 1998. After speaking with neighbors (today), and in his belief that the City can do more from a policy perspective in the area of expenses and capital projects, he will vote in opposition to the motion. With a view of attracting new businesses to Tukwila, Mr. Haggerton believes taxes should be kept lower than those in neighboring jurisdictions. Among Councilmembers and City staff, it was discussed and learned neighboring cities have had such a tax for perhaps as many as 20 years. In one neighboring City, a ballot measure (for this November) seeks to increase the tax to 9 Alan Doerschel, in response to Council inquiry, noted the proposed 1% increase would generate another $870,000.00 annually. For clarification, Ms. Carter reminded Council they are not voting to raise a tax tonight. Rather, they are voting to reaffirm an ordinance (previously adopted, in 2002) which stair stepped an increase to the tax if the economy doesn't recognize an improvement. *Vote 6 YES; 1 NO; with Council President Haggerton voting NO. 2. A motion affirming an increase in the fee associated with the City Light Franchise agreement from 4% to 5 effective 01/01/05, per Ordinance 2012. City of Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes Page 10 of 11 October 4, 2004 FENTON MOVED; CARTER SECONDED; TO AFFIRM AN INCREASE IN THE FEE ASSOCIATED WITH THE CITY LIGHT FRANCHISE AGREEMENT FROM 4% to 5 EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2005, PER ORDINANCE 2012.* Discussion: Council President Haggerton reiterated previous comments. *Vote 6 YES; 1 NO; with Council President Haggerton voting NO. e. A resolution supporting the national commitment toward achieving "The American Dream." A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, SUPPORTING THE NATIONAL COMMITMENT TOWARD ACHIEVING ACCESS FOR ALL IN ATTAINING THE AMERICAN DREAM. FENTON MOVED; DUFFIE SECONDED; TO HAVE THE PROPOSED RESOLUTION READ BY TITLE ONLY. The motion carried 7 -0. Shelley Kerslake, City Attorney, read the title of the proposed resolution. DUFFIE MOVED; HAGGERTON SECONDED; TO ACCEPT THE PROPOSED RESOLUTION AS READ. The motion carried 7 -0. APPROVED RESOLUTION #1559 f. Naming of Link Light Rail Station at Southcenter Boulevard /Tukwila International Boulevard. Councilmember Linder noted review of this item at the Community Affairs and Parks meeting on September 24, 2004. Sound Transit has requested the City's input in naming the Link Light Rail Station at Southcenter Boulevard and International Boulevard. With that, Ms. Linder stated her preference that the title include the "Tukwila" name. Discussion abounded on the subject. Each Councilmember stated their viewpoint on particular names. Suggested was the name "Tukwila International Boulevard." Many spoke in favor of the suggestion. DUFFIE MOVED; LINDER SECONDED; TO SEND CORRESPONDENCE TO SOUND TRANSIT CITING THE CITY'S PREFERENCE IN NAMING THE LINK LIGHT RAIL STATION AT SOUTHCENTER BOULEVARD AND TUKWILA INTERNATIONAL BOULEVARD AS "TUKWILA INTERNATIONAL BOULEVARD." The motion carried 7 -0. REPORTS: a. Mayor Mayor Mullet made no report. b. Council Councilmember Joe Duffie reported a recent visit to the Conquest Center in Tukwila. He encouraged all to visit the home on 144 Street, across from Showalter Middle School. He also reminded the Council of a "Town Meeting" to be held at Tukwila Elementary School at 6:30 p.m., October 6, 2004. Councilmember Joan Hernandez provided Council with an outlook of the coming week's activities. City of Tukwila City Council Regular Meeting Minutes d. City Attorney ADJOURNMENT: Date Minutes approved October 18, 2004. r-et. t ryri k Page 11 of 11 October 4, 2004 Council President Jim Haggerton asked Council to get back with him on how they would like to be involved in the retirement party of Keith Haines, Police Chief. Additionally, he reported attendance to the City's Wellness Fair on Thursday, September 30, 2004. Councilmember Pam Carter reported a recent Streamlined Sales Tax meeting in Olympia, and she's been invited to serve on a subcommittee of that group. She reported attendance to a September 29 TRI- Association (County and City) meeting, an October 1 AWC Employee Benefit Trust meeting; and an October 2 AWC Board (and later) Conference Committee meeting. Councilmember Pamela Linder provided Council with an overview of the coming week's activities. Councilmember Dennis Robertson reported his duty of reviewing vouchers has begun. Councilmember Dave Fenton attended this evening's Finance and Safety Committee meeting. c. City Staff Rhonda Berry, City Administrator, referring to the incident cited at last week's meeting about rats, noted the owner of an unoccupied home has been found and is local. The owner has been sent a Pre Citation Notice and has until October 6, 2004, to respond. Council will be kept apprised of the situation. Shelley Kerslake, City Attorney, had no report. e. Legislative Lucy Lauterbach, Legislative Analyst, reminded Council of a "van tour" on Tuesday, October 5. MISCELLANEOUS: Lucy Lauterbach reminded Council of the Corps of Discovery presentation on October 14. Mayor Mullet noted an offer of employment has been made to an individual from California for the position of Economic Development Administrator. 10:44 p.m. HAGGERTON MOVED; LINDER SECONDED; TO ADJOURN THE REGULAR MEETING. The motion carried 7 -0. Steven M. Mullet, Mayor Robert H. Baker, CMC, Deputy City Clerk