HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005-05-09 Committee of the Whole MinutesCALL TO ORDER/PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
OFFICIALS:
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS:
TUKWILA CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Council Chambers City Hall
May 9, 2005
COMMITTEE OF WHOLE MEETING
7:00 p.m.
Pamela Linder, Council President, called the Committee of Whole meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. and led the
audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. All Councilmembers were present.
Steven M. Mullet, Mayor; Rhonda Berry, City Administrator; Shelley Kerslake, City Attorney; Lucy Lauterbach,
Legislative Analyst; Bob Baker, Deputy City Clerk; David Haynes, Police Chief; Steve Lancaster, Director of
Community Development; Jim Morrow, Director of Public Works; Derek Speck, Economic Development
Administrator; and Cyndy Knighton, Senior Engineer (Transportation), Public Works.
a. WSDOT —1 -405 Widening Proiect Context sensitive solutions (aesthetics) 7:04:51
and results of Bus Rapid Transit study.
Cvndv Knighton, Senior Engineer (Transportation). Public Works, introduced Stacy Trussler, Brian
Elrod, Paul Laavalle, Ross Fenton, Scott Guter and Eric O'Brien. Washington State Department of
Transportation (WSDOT) employees. Each was present to provide part of an update on the 1 -405
Context Sensitive Solutions.
Ms. Trussler announced that (today) Governor Gregoire signed new transportation bills into law
including "Hotlink" legislation. Additionally, the governor approved an $8 billion Transportation
Partnership Account which provides for repairs on the Alaskan Way viaduct and the 1 -90 Floating Bridge.
Finally, Ms. Trussler informed those present that also effective today, employees of WSDOT will now
report directly to Governor Gregoire's office. They will no longer report to the Transportation Commission.
Brian Elrod presented Council with an overview of the organizational chart of the Context Sensitive
Solutions Committee. It includes 1 -405 Steering, Leadership and Executive Committees. Sub
Committees include Technical and Aesthetics. Finally, there are five advisory committees one each
from Tukwila, Renton, Bellevue, Kirkland and North Corridor (132 to 1 -5). The Tukwila Advisory
Committee is comprised of Cyndy Knighton, Lynn Miranda and Bob Giberson.
As part of the 1 -405 project involves Tukwila's own Ikawa Park, project aesthetics are a concern. With
that in mind, Tukwila's Advisory Committee conducted a series of meetings. The first part of the process
was identifying issues and concerns from a community standpoint. A visual preference survey was
conducted, concepts were developed and differences between various options were developed (overpass
versus underpass pedestrian linkages and open space options).
An Aesthetic Committee comprised of Lynn Miranda and Nora Gierloff was created to explore such issues
as trees, shrubs, plants, lights, paving, colors, textures, sound attenuation walls, etc. Based on all those
things, a prototype was developed for each idea. In an attempt to keep that which is already green, each
of the 5 Advisory Committees chose a particular tree type to line their portion of 1 -405 where
enhancements are made. Tukwila's chosen tree is the Hazelnut.
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Citv Council Committee of Whole Meeting Minutes
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Mav 9. 2005
To ensure compliance with Washington State law, a Technical Committee was developed. The
committee is comprised of WSDOT personnel such as bridge and traffic engineers, among others, who
will work closely with an Urban Design Team. They will ensure new standards that shall be cost effective,
durable and meet with WSDOT standards.
Paul Laavalle presented the Council with information on the 1 -405 Bus Rapid Transit South (BRT)
Corridor Pre Design. Calling BRT a relatively new mode of public transportation, Mr. Lavallee described it
as "light rail on rubber tires." It's high capacity, fast speed, and flexible transportation. BRT elements
include low -floor diesel or hybrid buses, bus stop enhancements, transit signal priority, preferential lanes
for buses, and queued jumps. The main attribute of BRT is speed. The engineer called it "somewhat
competitive with the automobile."
A demand for service has been studied and potential service was reviewed in several ways. WSDOT
hopes to maximize ridership with buses coming every 5 to 7 minutes. Ridership projections, conceptual
alignment options and bus stop configurations were also shared with those present. Although routes
have been designed, none are yet cast in stone. A proposed route through Tukwila, however, proceeds
south on Oakesdale to Strander and from Strander over to Baker Boulevard. With modifications to
Tukwila streets, this could be a viable option.
Cyndy Knighton assured Council that City staff has worked diligently with all involved with this major
project and "on all issues imaginable." Close relationships between Public Works, DCD, WSDOT and
others are making "the plans come to life." The key to the effective relationships, she noted, is good
communication between all parties.
Vern Mervhew Tukwila Planning Commission, sought clarification on the relationship between BRT
and Sound Transit's Link Light Rail projects. Mr. Lavallee noted both are considered "intermediate to
high capacity transit" options. WSDOT looks at the BRT option specifically. One advantage is the BRT
may operate on its own as transit and /or it can be a pre- cursor to future light rail systems. WSDOT would
like to consider both options, yet will first consider BRT especially with respect to infrastructure, routing
and stops.
Bill Goriance Tukwila Arts Commission. asked if there is a proposed (additional) eastbound lane on
Highway 518. Mr. Lavallee answered in the affirmative and noted the timetable. The project should
begin no later than 2007 and be substantially completed by 2010.
Next, Mr. Gorjance asked if the Klickitat improvement project is real and its proposed timeframe.
Ms. Knighton answered in the affirmative the project is real and design has begun. Currently, a timeline
is being developed. She noted much can be done by August to begin pursuing grant opportunities. By
that time, the design should be complete and the City should be able to build within three years. Funds
must be obtained, yet the project should be complete by 2012.
Allan Ekberg Tukwila Planning Commission, asked about the relationship between the BRT, Sound
Transit and King County Metro buses. Mr. Lavallee noted potential operations have not yet been
determined. He said it is all "model (study) work." Certain existing routes may be replaced. WSDOT
officials will coordinate those routes with the other transportation providers. He assured those present
that basic, local services will not be affected. The model only assumes changes to express services.
Ms. Trussler reported the Washington State Legislature has approved funding for the Alaskan Way
Viaduct to be "mostly constructed" between 2011 and 2015. Since that will impact other freeways,
WSDOT has "front loaded" other projects on 1 -405 by 2011. WSDOT officials are reviewing strategies to
reduce /mitigate congestion during all construction.
All present agreed and noted that "regional buy in" is a must to make this an effective, efficient option.
City of Tukwila
City Council Committee of Whole Meetina Minutes
b. Sister Cities Committee report Ikawa visit 2005 7:56:26
Sharing experiences, sights, and sounds of Ikawa, Japan, were:
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May 9. 2005
Kathy Znak, Chair of the Sister Cities Committee; Mike Easter (who read from his daughter's journal as
she was unable to be present); Vivian Perdue (who also brought pictures); Gerry Myklebust; Vicki Decker
(her daughter also went); Kate Ostrom; Audrey Davis and Mayor Mullet.
CITIZEN COMMENT /CORRESPONDENCE: None. 8:23:07
PUBLIC HEARING:
Reauest for vacation of a portion of 43 Avenue South. runnina southwesterly 8:24:08
from SR -599 to Sauire Street and Sauire Street from 43 Avenue South to South 131 Place
(Petitioner Normed -Shaw Partnership)
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON,
VACATING CERTAIN PROPERTY LOCATED WITHIN THE CITY, DEDICATED FOR
STREET PURPOSES, GENERALLY DESCRIBED AS A PORTION OF 43 AVENUE
SOUTH, RUNNING SOUTHWESTERLY FROM SR 599 TO SQUIRE STREET AND
SQUIRE STREET RUNNING SOUTH FROM 43 AVENUE SOUTH TO SOUTH 131
PLACE; AMENDING THE OFFICIAL STREET MAP OF THE CITY; PROVIDING FOR
SEVERABILITY; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE
Jim Morrow, Public Works Director, noted this hearing is being held in compliance with the Revised Code
of Washington. The purpose of the public hearing is to receive citizen comment on the Petitioner's
request for street vacation. Other aspects of the petition are "progressing smoothly."
8:24 p.m. Council President Linder opened the public hearing and called for citizen comment.
There was none.
8:25 p.m.
Art Shaw, Petitioner, poised himself for Council inquiry. There was none.
Council President Linder called for citizen comment a final time. There was none.
Council President Linder closed the public hearing.
Consensus existed to forward the item to the Mav 16, 2005 Reaular meetina.
SPECIAL ISSUES:
a. Resolution establishina Hearing Examiner Rules of Procedure 8:26:02
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON,
ADOPTING THE CITY OF TUKWILA HEARING EXAMINER RULES OF PRACTICE AND
PROCEDURE
Councilmember Robertson reported review and support of the proposed resolution and related rules at
the May 2, 2005 Finance and Safety Committee meeting. He reminded those present that Washington
State law requires the City to develop rules of procedure if they use Hearing Examiner services.
Shelley Kerslake, City Attorney, was present to answer questions posed by the Council. After providing
clarification to several points of interest, it was agreed that Ms. Kerslake would include a definition to the
term "intervener" within the rules. Additionally, it was confirmed that a comparison study is currently being
conducted to determine what, if any, charges are imposed relative to "filing fees." Upon review of the
study and for consideration, Ms. Kerslake noted the issue might go to the Finance and Safety Committee
in June, 2005.
City of Tukwila
City Council Committee of Whole Meetina Minutes
Consensus existed to forward the item to the next available Regular meeting upon Ms.
Kerslake's return from vacation (June 2. 20051.
b. Proposed interlocal aareement with the City of Seattle for overlay and 8:35:07
repair of 16th Avenue South
Councilmember Haggerton reported review and consideration of this item at the April 25 Transportation
Committee meeting.
Jim Morrow, Public Works Director, reminded Council that in 2004, the City of Seattle approached
Tukwila staff with an offer to pave Tukwila's portion of 16 Avenue South, using Seattle's paving crew for
a fixed -fee (all- inclusive cost) of $45,000.00.
Tukwila staff had reached 50% design of that roadway section and determined costs would be nearly
$63,000.00. For that reason, all design work was put on hold and that segment was removed from the
2004 Overlay Program.
The proposed interlocal agreement defines the responsibilities of each jurisdiction and represents a
savings of over $17,000.00 (in 2004 dollars). It also saves (Tukwila) money in engineering and
administrative costs. The dollars saved from 2004 will be used in conjunction with the 2005 Overlay
Program.
Consensus existed to forward the item to the May 16. 2005 Regular meetina.
c. Motion authorizing Mayor to sign an amendment to Contract #04- 025(b)
with David Evans in the amount of $70.000.00 for the design of the water
service for the Tukwila South Proiect
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Mav 9. 2005
8:40:03
Councilmember Fenton reported consideration of this item at the May 3 Utilities Committee meeting.
Council is being asked to authorize Mayor Mullet to sign an amendment to Contract 04- 025(b), with David
Evans, for the design of the water service for the Tukwila South project. The anticipated cost of the
design work is $70,000.00.
Councilmember Haggerton reported the item was also discussed at the April 25 Transportation
Committee meeting, where no formal recommendation was made.
Councilmember Robertson confirmed $70,000.00 is necessary (from the City's General fund) and will be
partially reimbursed by the Highline Water District. The design work is related to moving existing water
lines. Highline Water District does not have in -house staff to do the design work and has thus agreed to
allow the City to contract the work in an attempt to keep the project moving forward.
Councilmember Robertson registered a concern that the City is agreeing to pay for design work on the
infrastructure (of a utility) that is not owned by the City.
Consensus existed to forward the item to the May 16, 2005 Regular meeting.
d. Resolution declaring an emergency in response to erosion damage 8:48:09
on the 42 Avenue South Bridge
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON,
ADOPTING THE CITY OF TUKWILA HEARING EXAMINER RULES OF PRACTICE AND
PROCEDURE
Councilmember Fenton reported review of this issue at the May 3 Utilities Committee meeting. City staff
has learned a significant amount of roadway and bridge foundation support soils have eroded on the 42nd
City of Tukwila
City Council Committee of Whole Meeting Minutes
Consensus existed to forward the item to the May 16. 2005 Regular meetina.
REPORTS:
a. Mayor
b. Council
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Mav 9. 2005
Avenue Bridge requiring immediate repair. Additionally, the area to the north of the sheet pile wall has
washed away. The proposed resolution allows staff to immediately enter into a construction contract to
correct the problem.
Jim Morrow, Public Works Director, reported the emergency was caused by the river itself. At the river's
bend location, erosion has naturally occurred. Although final design costs are not yet known, staff will
begin the design and building process upon Council acceptance of the resolution. It is anticipated costs
could be as much as $125,000.00.
Mr. Morrow informed all present that repairs to the bridge will require closure to one lane of travel for at
least two (2) weeks, creating a single -lane bridge. Based on that, Councilmembers suggested ways to
inform as many community members as possible. Councilmember Haggerton suggested someone
contact the Duwamish Improvement Club, while Council President Linder suggested informing
responsible parties with the State of Washington and King County. It was also suggested that State
legislators be informed of the situation so that they may answer any inquiries.
8:56
Steven M. Mullet reminded everyone of the 5th Annual Backyard Wildlife Fair at the Tukwila Community
Center on May 14 He also informed everyone of the May 10 Open House on the issue of Cascade
View Drainage Project and the joint City Council /Planning Commission meeting on May 10 to address the
subject of Walkable Communities. Finally, he noted the Police Officers Memorial Day event at the City
Hall flagpole on May 12.
Councilmember Joe Duffie spoke of his attendance at the Tukwila Community Center on May 6, when
Washington Governor Christine Gregoire signed many bills into law. The Councilmember also attended a
ceremony in recognition of the National Day of Prayer on May 5.
Councilmember Joan Hernandez reported attendance to the May 3 Tukwila Government Affairs
Committee meeting and (later the same day) Utilities Committee meeting.
Council President Pamela Linder reported submission of a grant application (on May 3) to Starbucks. If
successful, the City would receive $15,000.00 for use on the Macadam Winter Garden project.
Councilmember Pam Carter attended the May 4 celebration in recognition of passage of the State's
transportation and funding budget. Additionally, she attended the May 5 AWC Resolutions Committee
meeting. Next, Ms. Carter reported attendance (this week) to a risk conference in Charleston, South
Carolina.
Councilmember Jim Haggerton attended a gathering in recognition of the National Day of Prayer on
May 5 as well as a Tukwila Government Affairs meeting later the same day.
Councilmember Dennis Robertson had no report.
Councilmember David Fenton attended the May 3 Utilities Committee meeting. He thanked everyone
for their support in connection with the National Day of Prayer ceremony held May 5.
City of Tukwila
City Council Committee of Whole Meeting Minutes
c. City Administrator
Rhonda Berry announced a May 13, 4:00 p.m. flagpole dedication ceremony at the Tukwila Pool. The
recently installed flagpole was a gift to the City from the Woodsman of the World (an insurance agency).
d. City Attorney
Shelley Kerslake was not present during reports.
e. Legislative Analyst
Lucy Lauterbach had no report.
MISCELLANEOUS:
Mayor Mullet announced attendance to the re- dedication of Seahurst Park. He also reminded everyone of
the "world -class arboretum park" Kubota Garden.
ADJOURNMENT:
9:14 p.m. Council President Linder adjourned the meeting.
Pamela Linder, Council President
Robert H. Baker, CMC, Deputy City Clerk
Date minutes approved: June .Z. 2005
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Mav 9. 2005