HomeMy WebLinkAbout2006-06-12 Committee of the Whole MinutesCALL TO ORDER/PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
OFFICIALS
ATTENDANCE
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
TUKWILA CITY COUNCIL
June 12, 2006 7:00 p.m.
Council Chambers City Hall
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
Council President, Dennis Robertson, called the meeting to order at 7:02 pm and led the audience in the
Pledge of Allegiance.
Present were Dennis Robertson, Council President; Councilmembers Joe Duffie, Joan Hernandez, Pam
Carter, Jim Haggerton, Pam Linder, and Verna Griffin.
Steve Mullet, Mayor; Kevin Fuhrer, Acting City Administrator; David Haynes, Police Chief; Steve
Lancaster, Community Development Director; Sandra Whiting, Urban Environmentalist; Frank Iriarte,
Public Works Deputy Director; Bob Giberson, Acting City Engineer; Robin Tischmak, Senior
Transportation Engineer; Diane Jenkins, Council Assistant; Christy O'Flaherty, Deputy City Clerk.
Julia Patterson, King County Councilmember, and Dr. Charissa Fotinos, King County Health Dept;
"The Health of King County."
Julia Patterson, King County Councilmember, introduced Dr. Charissa Fotinos. Dr. Fotinos is the Medical
Director for the King County Public Health Department.
Dr. Fotinos utilized a Powerpoint demonstration to provide an overview of health related issues for the
King County area. Some key elements of the presentation included chronic diseases and associated risk
factors; health disparities within racial groups, income groups, specific areas of the county, and relative to
sexual orientation; problems related to lack of insurance; challenges for Tukwila; and improving health
issues in Tukwila and South King County.
Tukwila has high occurrences in the areas of: diabetes hospitalizations; hypertension; childhood asthma
hospitalizations, adolescent birth rate; late or `no' prenatal care; number of uninsured adults; adults
unable to seek medical care due to costs; and mental health hospitalizations.
Discussion ensued regarding health related matters in Tukwila and South King County. Councilmember
Haggerton referenced the proximity to airports as being a potential basis for health related problems. He
asked if any studies had been conducted on this subject. Dr. Fotinos indicated that environmental health
professionals would be the best source of information on this issue.
Council President Robertson asked for clarification regarding the decision making authority that decides
on the location of health clinics. King County Councilmember Patterson conveyed that the King County
Council would make that decision. She stated the poor and needy are being priced out of Seattle and are
moving south. However, the health related services are not in place to meet their needs. A new clinic is
currently being constructed in SeaTac on South 188 Street approximately 12 minutes from Tukwila. The
new clinic is on a Metro bus line to ensure ease of accessibility for citizens.
The Councilmembers offered to assist Ms. Patterson in efforts to increase the level of health services in
the Tukwila and the South King County area. Ms. Patterson stated her willingness to partner with Tukwila
in an effort to raise public awareness while striving to find solutions to this growing problem.
City of Tukwila
City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes
CITIZEN COMMENT
PUBLIC HEARING
Deleted: Project #6, South 178 Street Realignment
Deleted: Project #31, East Marginal Way /Boeing Access Road
Added: Project #30, Tukwila Urban Center Pedestrian Bike Bridge
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June 12. 2006
Robert Jensen, 11682 44 Avenue South, referenced a flyer regarding the sewer project in the Allentown
area. The flyer states that traffic will be directed northbound on 44 Avenue South and southbound on
42 Avenue South. However, all traffic is currently being routed down 44 Avenue South. A construction
trailer has also been placed in front of the park, blocking the entrances and exits. Children are out of
school for the summer, and with no sidewalks in the area, this is a safety concern. He would like to see
changes to the traffic flow as well as speed limit signs and stop signs.
Bob Giberson, Acting City Engineer, stated that due to deep sewer lines and storm drains, there is no
room during the day to route traffic down 42 Avenue South. Public Works staff will be implementing
traffic calming measures on 44 Avenue South, to include signage and street markings.
Councilmember Linder referenced past discussions that involved routing the traffic to Interurban Avenue.
Mr. Giberson indicated there was an intent to avoid mixing heavy truck traffic with residential commuters,
but he would look into the situation. He also indicated efforts would be made to provide accessibility to
the park.
2007 -2012 Transportation Improvement Program
Councilmember Duffie indicated this item was discussed at the Transportation Committee meeting on
May 22, 2006. The committee recommends approval.
The Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) is required by RCW to be updated annually. The TIP is
adopted by resolution after a public hearing by the local agency and incorporated into the Regional and
State TIPs. The TIP is primarily a financial planning document for projects competing for grants.
Frank Iriarte, Public Works Deputy Director, stated there are three revisions to the plan from 2006 as
follows:
Council President Robertson declared the Public Hearing open at 8:03 pm.
John Potter, Northwest Planning and Development Services, representing Williamson Law Office and
Open Frame, LLC, distributed a letter to the Mayor and City Council. They are requesting the City
continue consideration of Item 13 of the 2007 -2012 Transportation Improvement Plan to allow further
environmental review and public hearings on a proposed northerly Transit Center station referred to as
the "Far Side" Concept. The "Far Side" Concept is located at the westerly corner of the Acme
Bowl /Fitness Center Development property at the intersection of Andover Park West and Baker
Boulevard at 100 Andover Park West. Their objection is just to this one item, which would produce
adverse economic and development impacts to the Acme Bowl and Fitness Center Development site.
The impacts include reduction of fair market value caused by the loss of 22 parking stalls, the probable
creation of non conforming uses to buildings, installed improvements, and building setbacks. It would
also interfere with existing permits granted by the City, including the recent site plan approval for
redevelopment of the Open Frame property by the City's Design Review Board.
Chris Miller, Open Frame LLC, indicated they have received approval for a stand -alone 6,000 square foot
restaurant with outdoor seating. The 240 -foot bus stop planned on the east side of Andover Park West
will adversely affect their future development plans. They would like the City to withhold any voting on
Item #13 of the TIP until City staff can investigate other potential site locations.
Bob Giberson, Acting City Engineer, indicated the TIP is a planning tool and a mechanism required to
apply for grant funding.
City of Tukwila
City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes
Council President Robertson declared the Public Hearing closed at 8:16 pm.
SPECIAL ISSUES
a. Proposed resolution approving the 2007 -2012 Transportation Improvement Program.
Councilmember Duffie clarified that the projects listed in the TIP are not shown in order of priority.
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June 12. 2006
Councilmember Carter clarified the City is not looking at the specifics or details of any particular project.
This is a list of potential projects for the next six years. Projects on the list are eligible for federal funding,
and the fine points are completely undecided. A project on the list may or may not come to fruition based
on funding or other issues.
Robin Tischmak, Senior Transportation Engineer, stated that federal funds have been afforded to this
particular project for design. It will need to be listed in the TIP due to the allocation of federal monies.
Councilmember Hernandez inquired if the TIP is approved with this project listed as it is, can the funding
be transferred to another site. Bob Giberson, conveyed that as long as the City stays within the area
prescribed in the initial scope of work, the federal funds would still apply; it is not site specific.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON,
ADOPTING A SIX -YEAR TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM, AND DIRECTING
THE SAME TO BE FILED WITH THE STATE SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION AND THE
TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT BOARD.
Councilmember Haggerton inquired if the dollar amount shown in the 2007 column for Item #6,
Klickitat/Southcenter Pkwy. /I -5 Access Revision is for design work. Robin Tischmak stated that amount is
for construction. Mr. Haggerton expressed concern about the traffic impacts due to multiple, large
projects, such as Item #6 and 1 -405 improvements, all occurring in 2007. Mayor Mullet relayed he does
not expect the Klickitat project to occur in 2007 due to funding issues and a possible LID.
COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING.
b. Proposed resolution authorizing application for Aquatic Lands Enhancement Account (ALEA)
funding assistance for acquisition of the Duwamish Gardens site.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON
AUTHORIZING APPLICATION FOR FUNDING ASSISTANCE TO THE INTERAGENCY
COMMITTEE FOR OUTDOOR RECREATION (IAC) FOR AN AQUATIC LANDS
ENHANCEMENT ACCOUNT (ALEA) PROGRAM PROJECT, KNOWN AS THE "DUWAMISH
GARDENS ACQUISITION PROJECT," AS PROVIDED IN RCW 79.90.245 AND SUBSEQUENT
LEGISLATIVE ACTION.
Councilmember Haggerton indicated this item was discussed at the Utilities Committee meeting on June
6, 2006. The City's portion of the costs for this project could range up to $50,000. The committee
recommends approval.
The Interagency Committee for Outdoor Recreation (IAC) requires a formal resolution for a grant
application. The City is requesting $650,000. This resolution will authorize funding assistance for the
Duwamish Gardens site along the Duwamish River through an Aquatic Lands Enhancement Account
(ALEA) program.
The Carrasino family recently contacted King County offering to sell their 2.18 -acre property adjacent to
the Duwamish River as a Habitat Restoration Site. The property known to the family as "Duwamish
Gardens" is located on the right bank of the Duwamish River immediately downstream of East Marginal
Way South and has approximately 500 feet of river frontage. The site is in the high priority "transition
zone" between fresh and salt water.
Councilmember Hernandez inquired if the structures on the property would be demolished or relocated.
Frank Iriarte, Deputy Public Works Director, indicated he would check into the situation.
City of Tukwila
City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes
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June 12. 2006
Council President Robertson indicated the resolution references that City funds for this project will come
out of the Parks and Recreation 301 Fund. Upon review, Mr. Robertson, did not locate a reference to this
project in the 301 Fund.
Frank Iriarte stated this project is not yet in the budget. Upon successful acknowledgement of grant
funds, staff will ensure the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) includes funds in the 2007 budget.
Mayor Mullet clarified that once a grant opportunity becomes a solid reality, the Administration will return
to Council for further consideration and decision making before moving forward. Council President
Robertson inquired as to what the projected costs to the City will be for this project. Mayor Mullet
indicated the costs should be between $50,000 $100,000. If grant monies were received, the City's share
in 2006 would be approximately $50,000.
Council President Robertson asked Kevin Fuhrer, Finance Director, where the unbudgeted $50,000
would come from this year. Mr. Fuhrer indicated reprioritization of the existing 301 fund would be
necessary, or the monies could come from the Ending Fund Balance.
COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING.
Robert Jensen, 11682 44 Avenue South, inquired as to where the parking or greenbelt area would be
located. Mayor Mullet indicated this may be an open space or fish resting habitat, and no decisions have
been made at this time.
c. Proposed resolution approving an Offsite Wetland Mitigation Plan on certain City -owned
properties.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON,
APPROVING AN OFF -SITE WETLAND MITIGATION PROGRAM ON CITY -OWNED
PROPERTIES, AND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO NEGOTIATE AGREEMENTS WITH
DEVELOPERS FOR USE OF CITY -OWNED PROPERTY FOR WETLAND MITIGATION.
Councilmember Hernandez indicated this item was discussed at the Community Affairs and Parks
Committee meeting on May 9, 2006. The committee recommends approval.
The resolution proposes an off -site wetland mitigation program, using a consolidated mitigation approach,
where developers would carry out mitigation on City -owned properties under supervision of staff and in
accordance with the Sensitive Areas Ordinance. Authorization for the Mayor to sign agreements with
developers for use of City land for mitigation purposes is required to move forward.
Sandra Whiting, Urban Environmentalist, utilized a Powerpoint presentation to illustrate the various facets
of the Off -Site Wetland Mitigation Program. The objectives of the program are to facilitate development
and assist small developers by providing potential locations for off -site mitigation and to provide increased
environmental benefits by consolidating mitigation at larger or higher functioning sites. The benefits of
the program are as follows:
Increase wetland functions and /or acres
Protect, in perpetuity, City -owned sites
Improve recreation opportunities
Contribute to (Water Resource Inventory Area) WRIA9 goals and commitments
The City -owned sites initially identified for this project are the Macadam wetlands, Fire Station #53
wetland, and the Green River Riverview Plaza site. The proposed Macadam Winter Garden would
benefit from the program.
Councilmember Linder asked for clarification with regard to the ratio being different, if it is off -site,
requiring a larger amount of mitigation. Ms. Whiting indicated the ratios are based on whether wetland is
created or enhanced and is not based on an on -site or off -site location.
City of Tukwila
Citv Council Committee of the Whole Minutes
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June 12. 2006
Robert Jensen, 11682 44 Avenue South, stated the area behind Grandmother's Hill and the Fire Station
does encompass wetland areas.
Aaron Hundhofte, 3726 South 126 stated his approval of the project and commended Tukwila for efforts
in the area of wetland mitigation.
Councilmember Robertson stated he would like priority given to locations in Water Resource Inventory
Area 9 (WRIA9). Tukwila's section of the river is vital to salmon restoration. He also conveyed that the
riverbanks in Tukwila are over -run with blackberries. He inquired as to whether smaller developers could
perform projects along the river to remove blackberries and add native plants that would replenish the
habitat. Ms. Whiting indicated that if this mitigation activity involved enhancement of a wetland along the
river, it would be acceptable. If not, it could mean a loss of wetland function or acreage and would not be
consistent with the Sensitive Areas Ordinance. The other regulatory agencies involved may not approve
riverbank improvements for mitigation of wetland impacts.
COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING.
d. Bid award for 2006 Small Drainage Project.
Councilmember Haggerton indicated this item was discussed at the Utilities Committee meeting on June
6, 2006. The committee recommends approval.
This project was advertised on May 16 and 23, 2006. Three bids were received and opened on May 31,
2006. Dennis R. Craig, Inc. submitted the low bid of $326,066.15. Dennis R. Craig, Inc. has worked
successfully on the 2004 and 2005 Small Drainage Projects, and references indicate they have
performed well on similar projects for other agencies.
Councilmember Haggerton noted that discussion ensued in the Utilities Committee regarding the
Engineer's Estimate for this project. The estimate came in substantially lower than both the budgeted
amount for the project as well as the bid received from Dennis R. Craig. After review and discussion, the
Committee members determined that escalating costs were the primary factors in the differing amounts.
Councilmember Carter noted that the surface water fees paid by citizens are used for these very
worthwhile projects.
COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING.
e. LID Formation Study consultant agreement.
Councilmember Duffie indicated this item was discussed at the Transportation Committee meeting on
June 12, 2006. The committee recommends approval.
The Tukwila Urban Center Access Project located at Southcenter Pkwy and Klickitat Drive now requires
the next step in the LID process. The feasibility study determined that there would be a definite benefit to
the area. Now a special benefit study will provide a tabulation of recommended assessments for parcels
in the LID boundary area established in the feasibility study. There is also a need for three summary
appraisal reports for right -of -way acquisition, which has also been included in this consultant's
agreement. Authorization for the Mayor to sign a contract with Macaulay Associates is necessary to
move forward. A $93,000 expenditure is required for this phase of the project.
Councilmember Carter suggested that at a future Council meeting, it would be helpful to have 'refresher'
information regarding the steps and timelines relevant to LIDs. Bob Giberson indicated he would assure
additional information is provided to the City Council.
Council President Robertson requested documentation outlining the dollar amounts for all facets of the
project. Mr. Giberson stated he would provide that information to Diane Jenkins, Council Assistant, for
distribution to the Councilmembers.
COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING.
City of Tukwila
City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes
REPORTS
a. Mayor
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June 12, 2006
Mayor Mullet reported on his attendance at the Conference of Mayors in Las Vegas, Nevada. One key
element of discussion at the event was in regard to global warming. Seattle has shown leadership in this
area, and the Mayor will be requesting them to come to Tukwila to provide information on their program.
Sustainability was another topic of concern with regard to quality of life and maintaining local water
supply. Mayor Mullet also visited a 12,000,000 square foot business development that will house
furniture and related items.
b. Council
Councilmember Duffie referenced a newspaper article that stated Tukwila Village to be the highest rated
project in the City. Mayor Mullet indicated Tukwila Village is one of many important projects being worked
on by City staff. The Mayor also conveyed that the Tukwila Valley South project is still being discussed
by all parties, but it continues to be a very slow process.
Councilmember Hernandez reported that she attended the Tukwila Government Affairs Committee
meeting on June 6, 2006. The discussion centered on the need for additional Park Ride lots on
Interurban Avenue in particular. She also attended the Equity Diversity Committee meeting on June 8,
2006 and the Southwest King County Chamber of Commerce meeting on June 9, 2006.
Councilmember Carter attended the AWC Resolutions Committee meeting on June 7, 2006. She also
attended the Transportation Policy Board meeting on June 8, 2006, where there was a great deal of
discussion regarding passenger -only ferries. The State does not intend to continue providing this service
and has suggested that Counties take on the responsibility. The Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC)
will be conducting a study on this issue. She also attended the Southwest King County Chamber of
Commerce meeting on June 9, 2006. Ms. Carter will be attending the AWC Conference the week of June
19, 2006, and she relayed that other Councilmembers have offered to fill in if needed at the Finance
Safety Committee meeting. She will be interviewed by Tony Ventrella while at the Conference.
Councilmember Haggerton reported there were 38 applicants for the position of Finance Director for the
Cascade Water Alliance. Interviews for the final 4 candidates will be conducted on June 26 -27, 2006.
Mr. Haggerton will be attending the National League of Cities (NLC) Conference the week of June 19,
2006. He announced the June 20, 2006 Utilities Committee is cancelled.
Councilmember Linder reported on her appreciation of King Council Councilmember Julia Patterson's
efforts regarding health care issues in the County. She also conveyed she has received a great many
phone calls regarding dog issues, sound transit noise concerns, and construction related matters.
Councilmember Griffin attended the Equity Diversity Committee meeting on June 8, 2006. Citizenship
classes are being conducted at Showalter Middle School, and most of the participants live in Tukwila.
The Commission has applied for an AWC grant and will be working with members of a Latino "think- tank"
who are committed to overcoming language barriers to assist their children in school.
Council President Robertson provided an overview of the process he has been using to deal with citizen
comments or complaints. He asked that if a Councilmember chooses to respond directly to a citizen that
he be provided a copy of the correspondence. He also indicated a small shantytown has been
discovered above Klickitat Drive. It may have been there for several years, and he has not heard of any
problems associated with it. The matter is being investigated.
c. Staff
Kevin Fuhrer, Acting City Administrator, reported that he and Jack Pace, Community Development
Deputy Director, visited the Duwamish neighborhoods to gain input regarding the noise variance
application submitted by the Sound Transit Contractor. Jack Pace did an outstanding job explaining the
situation, and positive comments were received from community members regarding the information
presented.
City of Tukwila
City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes
d. City Attorney
The City Attorney was not present.
e. Intergovernmental
There was no report.
MISCELLANEOUS
Councilmember Duffie indicated the Tukwila School had an International Market event that was a great
success. The students showcased 45 different languages and each carried a flag for their country.
Councilmember Hernandez inquired about information she received regarding individuals in the
community being deported, and their children being left behind. Mayor Mullet stated this incident involved
11 adults and 4 children in Tukwila, and the children were not left unattended.
Councilmember Haggerton stated that the Information Technology meeting to be held at the NLC
Conference is a joint meeting with the NLC Public Safety Committee. The focus this year is on public
safety and emergency preparedness.
ADJOURNMENT
10:00 p.m. COUNCIL PRESIDENT ROBERTSON DECLARED THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
MEETING ADJOURNED.
D obertson/C;ouncil President
Christy`t5'Flahert Deputy City Clerk
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June 12. 2006