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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2006-11-13 Committee of the Whole MinutesNovember 13, 2006— 7:00 p.m. Council Chambers City Hall COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE CALL TO ORDER /PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Council President, Dennis Robertson, called the meeting to order at 7:03 pm and led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. OFFICIALS Present were Dennis Robertson, Council President, Councilmembers Joe Duffie, Joan Hernandez, Pam Carter, Jim Haggerton, Pam Linder, and Verna Griffin. ATTENDANCE Steve Mullet, Mayor; Rhonda Berry, City Administrator; Derek Speck, Economic Development Administrator; Kevin Fuhrer, Finance Director; Jim Morrow, Public Works Director; Robin Tischmak, Senior Engineer; Gail Labanara, Public Works Analyst; Steve Lancaster, Community Development Director; Lynn Miranda, Senior Planner; Nick Olives, Fire Chief; Kim Walden, Municipal Court Judge; Trish Kinlow, Court Administrator; Diane Jenkins, Council Assistant; Christy O'Flaherty, Deputy City Clerk. CITIZEN COMMENT TUKWILA CITY COUNCIL Anna Bernhard, 14241 59 Avenue South, expressed appreciation to the Public Works Street Department for the "fabulous job" performance in keeping the streets and sidewalks clean and clear of debris. PUBLIC HEARINGS Renewal of moratorium within the Transit Oriented Development (TOD) planning. Lynn Miranda, Senior Planner, provided background information regarding this issue. In September, 2002, Council adopted an ordinance establishing a six -month moratorium on the acceptance of certain land divisions and land use decisions within the transit oriented development (TOD) planning area surrounding the Sounder Commuter Rail /Amtrak station. The moratorium was intended to preserve land available for development or redevelopment and restrict land uses that do not implement the vision for the area until land use and transportation plans and regulations supporting the TOD at the station are in place. Ordinance 2123, renewing the moratorium, was adopted in June 2006 and expires December 2, 2006. To date, Council has renewed the moratorium seven times, modifying it to provide more flexibility in use of the parcels, while the Tukwila Urban Center (TUC) plan was being developed. At this time, TUC plan adoption is now anticipated in the second quarter of 2007. There is still a need for keeping the moratorium in place until the plan for the area is adopted. 7:07:45 Council President Robertson opened the Public Hearing and called for citizen comments. Karm Virk, 662 Strander Blvd., indicated he is in the process of trying to purchase a small piece of property owned by Puget Sound Energy at the southernmost edge of the moratorium area. Mr. Virk intends to develop a multi disciplinary office complex for healthcare providers, which fits into the zoning for this vicinity. Puget Sound Energy has strict guidelines regarding the sale of property and established boundaries are required. The moratorium has put him in a situation where a boundary line adjustment removing this parcel from development restrictions is necessary. 7:11:50 Council President Robertson closed the Public Hearing. City of Tukwila Page 2 of 6 City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes November 13. 2006 Lynn Miranda, Senior Planner, conveyed that she has spoken with Mr. Virk regarding this matter. While boundary line adjustments are not currently permitted in the moratorium area, there could be an exemption based on certain criteria. The ordinance could be amended to reflect that a boundary line adjustment would be granted if a development fell within a currently permitted use. Councilmember Hernandez asked if the amendment could be reflected in the ordinance prior to the November 20, 2006 regular meeting, and Ms. Miranda answered in the affirmative. Councilmember Carter expressed concern about owners of larger parcels requesting similar boundary line adjustments to create multiple smaller developments that may not adhere to the vision for the area. Mayor Mullet clarified that boundary line adjustments would only shift lot sizes and would not create new parcels that could be used for that purpose. Councilmember Haggerton inquired, if since the moratorium was established in 2002, has anyone come forward that would have been impacted by this proposed amendment, and Ms. Miranda responded in the negative. Council President Robertson asked if this would be the last occasion for the Council to pass a moratorium ordinance for this area. Steve Lancaster, Community Development Director, relayed that the Tukwila Urban Center Plan is anticipated to be finished in early 2007. Until all aspects of the plan and potential changes by the Council are complete, the moratorium may need to be extended in the future. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ORDINANCE, WITH THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT, TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. SPECIAL ISSUES a. A resolution approving a land use fee schedule. Councilmember Carter indicated this item was discussed at the Finance and Safety Committee meeting on November 6, 2006. The committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. Staff is proposing all planning fees be increased by approximately 4 similar to the other citywide budgetary increases proposed for 2007. Three additional permit applications were created by the new Wireless Communications Chapter, and fees need to be provided for those permits. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. b. Tukwila International Boulevard Phases 2 and 3 construction costs increases vs budget. Councilmember Duffie indicated this item was discussed at the Transportation Committee meeting on October 23, 2006. The committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. Jim Morrow, Public Works Director, provided background information on this issue. This project was presented to the Council in November 2004 to discuss the project budget and design alternatives in order to proceed into final design of the project. At that time, the selected alternative was estimated to cost approximately $16.15 million with a budget of $16.2 million. Since that time, the design has progressed to 90% completion; the environmental phase has been completed; and state funding in the amount of $2.851 million was eliminated and reinstituted in the spring of 2006. The 90% construction cost estimate has increased to $20.2 million representing a 25% increase over two years. This is primarily due to industry -wide inflation of labor and material costs. In order to construct this project within the available budget, cost savings and reduction measures are necessary. Three general areas have been identified that may produce enough savings and /or reductions to bring the project within budget. They include: City of Tukwila Page 3 of 6 Citv Council Committee of the Whole Minutes November 13, 2006 1. Eliminate the undergrounding of overhead utilities and have existing poles and facilities relocated as necessary. 2. Eliminate some of the proposed improvements within the WSDOT limited access area at the north end of the project. (a pedestrian walkway had been proposed and has since been disallowed by the Washington State Department of Transportation). 3. Redesign some of the retaining walls from cast -in -place concrete retaining walls to a Tess expensive wall type. Robin Tischmak, Senior Engineer, utilized a large four -panel photomontage to explain various aspects of the project. Mr. Morrow conveyed that major pedestrian traffic is coming from the Homeland Security Building and area bus routes by way of current sidewalks and a signal crossing. Councilmember Haggerton commented on the importance of utilizing a broad vision in assuring that Tukwila builds for the future. He also inquired as to whether there were any restrictions regarding grant funding and timelines for expenditure. Jim Morrow, Public Works Director, stated the City is on the Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) late list for obligating the funds, and the Transportation Improvement Board would like Tukwila to move forward on the project. Councilmember Carter indicated it would be beneficial to have a sidewalk run the length of the Sabey Development. Mr. Morrow stated he would review the costs associated with extending the sidewalk the full length. Councilmember Linder asked for clarification regarding the difference between the $13.49 million "revised scope" figures and the $16.2 million budgeted amount. Mr. Morrow indicated the variance is for contingency and construction management. Council President Robertson inquired about the items that fall under the "General Conditions" category on page 29 of the agenda packet regarding construction cost comparisons. Mr. Morrow responded this would include channelization, mobilization, water pollution erosion control, traffic control, and surveying. Council President Robertson also asked about the "Roadway" category savings of $800,000 and an explanation of "Roadside Development." Mr. Morrow explained that "Roadway" entails clearing, grubbing, asphalt pavement work and repair, shoring, and roadway /curb /gutter construction. "Roadway Development" involves planting, property restoration, and irrigation systems. The Councilmembers recognized the necessity of completing the work within the budgeted amount and expressed regret at the need to scale down the scope of the project. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. c. Bid award for Tukwila Urban Center Signal Interconnect ITS Traffic Signal Uninterruptible Power Supply. Councilmember Duffie indicated this item was discussed at the Transportation Committee meeting on October 23, 2006. The committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. Jim Morrow, Public Works Director, provided information regarding this issue. The uninterruptible power supply units were advertised in September, 2006. One bid was received on October 2, 2006. The bid of $4,650.00 per unit was from Cascade Signal Corporation, and 24 units are required. Cascade Signal Corporation is a regular supplier to the Public Works Department, and they produce a reliable and high quality product. The majority of other equipment needed for the signal project can be acquired from the Washington State bid list. Council President Robertson inquired about the cost for annual maintenance on this product. Mr. Morrow stated the cost is minimal and would involve battery replacement. The batteries should last approximately 5 years, and the controller itself has a life expectancy of 10 -15 years. The units are instrumental in saving the City crews' time in hooking up generators in emergency situations. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. City of Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes d. 2007 property tax ordinances: Setting the Regular Levy Increasing the Regular Levy by 1.0 percent Page 4 of 6 November 13. 2006 Councilmember Carter indicated this item was discussed at the Finance and Safety Committee meeting on November 6, 2006. The committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. Pursuant to State law, both of the proposed ordinances are required in order to receive property tax revenues in 2007. The deadline for submitting 2007 property tax levies to King County is December 1, 2006. Kevin Fuhrer, Finance Director, relayed that the rate per thousand, with the 1% limitation, has dropped and, there is a reduction in the rate from 2006 by 5.68 The City's total valuation has increased by 8.3 A homeowner of a house valued at $350,000 would pay approximately $1,000 in City of Tukwila taxes (this does not include special purpose districts, school district, etc.). This is an estimated levy value as King County will not have final property valuations prior to the cutoff date of December 1, 2006. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. e. Changes to Council administrative assistant position description. Council President Robertson conveyed this item has been brought forward by Mayor Mullet and himself. The intent is to clarify the reporting relationships (supervision and performance review responsibility) for the Council Administrative Assistant position. There will be no changes regarding hiring or termination authority or the requirement to conform to City personnel policies. Item #1 under "Essential Job Description Functions" has been amended to read as follows: 1. Works independently, undor tho cuporvision of within the Mayor's Office cpocifically tho City to under the supervision of the Council President (at the direction of the full Council). Performance reviews will be manaaed by the Council President with input from the entire Council and the Citv Administrator. Requires the ability to exercise individual initiative and discretion in confidential matters and makes decisions within broad guidelines. This is an administrative action being brought forward for discussion. Mayor Mullet reiterated that this position serves the Council, and the goal is to ensure successful support for the members. Viki Jessop, Administrative Services Director, offered comments regarding: utilization of the City's Policy and Procedure manual; issues that may arise regarding personnel matters such as the need for family medical leave, sick time, and employee evaluations; the need for a consistent reporting structure for the position; the additional time required by the person holding the Council President position to oversee the job duties. The Councilmembers discussed various aspects of this issue including the role of the Council in supervisory or administrative matters; the need for familiarity of the personnel policy manual; simplifying the supervisory reporting mechanism for the position; and the added responsibility for the individual serving in the role of Council President, as well as their option for changing the process in the future. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO ACCEPT THE CHANGES TO THE COUNCIL ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT JOB DESCRIPTION. Council President Robertson commented he would be bringing forward options for reducing the amount of overtime currently being accumulated by the position. 8:32 pm Council President Robertson declared a five minute break. 8:43 pm Council President Robertson re- opened the Committee of the Whole meeting. City of Tukwila Citv Council Committee of the Whole Minutes f. Continuation of review of 2007 Proposed Budget and CIP Kevin Fuhrer, Finance Director, introduced each of the following sections of the budget for review by the City Council. The Councilmembers discussed the items and asked for clarification from staff as needed. Council amendments or additions to the preliminary budget were noted by the Finance Director and departmental staff members. General Gov 303 Fund CIP pg. 70 -71 Facilities 302 Fund CIP pg. 72 -76 Municipal Court pg. 45 -46 Admin Services pg. 48 -54 Fire Department pg. 99 -116 Fire Equip Reserve pg. 144 Insurance LEOFF pg. 177 Firemen's Pension pg. 178 Revenues All Funds pg. 1 -15 REPORTS a. Mayor b. Council Page 5 of 6 November 13. 2006 Mayor Mullet reported on proposed changes in operations of the Suburban Cities Association. One change involves fundraising efforts through means other than raising dues such as the addition of associate members. The budget for the organization is increasing, and there is a need to secure additional funding. The association is also considering an increase in meetings with more being conducted in the evenings to enhance networking and participation. Mayor Mullet asked the Council for input on the changes, and consensus existed to accept the amendments as outlined by the Mayor. Councilmember Duffie reported on the Walk and Roll Pedestrian Bicycle Fair to be held at Showalter Middle School on December 6 from 6:30 to 8:00 pm. Councilmember Hernandez attended the November 7, 2006 Governmental Affairs Committee where the focus was on the Southcenter Square development. She also attended the Veterans' Day Assembly at Tukwila Elementary School on November 7, 2006. Her husband, Dick, was one of several Veterans present given special recognition for their military service. On November 8, 2006 she attended the South King County Cultural Coalition meeting. The funding for 4- Culture will be sun setting in 2012, and it was recommended that legislators be contacted in an attempt to secure a funding source. Ms. Hernandez also attended the Tukwila International Boulevard snapshot meeting on November 9, 2006. She reported that the Rainier Symphony will be sponsoring a New Year's Eve event at the Doubletree Hotel in Tukwila. Councilmember Carter attended the November 8, 2006 Suburban Cities PIC meeting, where she updated the members on transportation related items. On November 9, 2006 she attended the Transportation Policy Board meeting that was followed by a Destination 2030 Working Group meeting and a Growth Management Policy meeting. Councilmember Haggerton attended the November 7, 2006 Tukwila Government Affairs Committee meeting and the Veterans' Day celebration on the same day. On November 9, 2006 he attended the Lake Tapps Committee meeting. The attendees met with Pierce County Councilmember Shawn Bunney and progress is being made with Lake Tapps homeowners regarding water related issues. On November 11, 2006, Tukwila American Legion Post #235 participated in the Auburn Veterans' Day parade. Mr. Haggerton reported that the Auburn parade is now the biggest Veterans' Day parade in the country. The Tukwila American Legion Post #235 will have its Christmas Party on December 14, 2006 at the Tukwila Community Center. City of Tukwila Page 6 of 6 City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes November 13, 2006 Councilmember Linder reported there will be a community meeting on the Draft Master Plan for the Duwamish Riverbend Hill on November 15, 2006 from 7:00 -8:30 pm at the Tukwila Community Center. Councilmember Griffin thanked Council President Robertson for his attendance at the Utilities Committee in her absence. She also attended the Tukwila International Boulevard snapshot meeting on November 9, 2006. Ms. Griffin received a letter from the National League of Cities (NLC) regarding Tukwila's resolution joining "Inclusive Communities" and more information will be forthcoming. She distributed invitations to the Tukwila Rotary Club senior Thanksgiving dinner. Council President Robertson reported that Councilmember Haggerton will be the representative at the National League of Cities Conference and Councilmember Griffin will be the alternate. c. Staff There was no report. d. City Attorney The City Attorney was not present. e. Intergovernmental There was no report. MISCELLANEOUS Councilmember Haggerton commented on the participation of Marie Parker in the Veterans' Day parade. Ms. Parker is 85 years of age and walked the entire parade route. ADJOURNMENT 10:38 p.m. COUNCIL PRESIDENT ROBERTSON DECLARED THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING ADJOURNED. en is Robe n, Cou cif President 2 Christy O'Flahe Deputy City Clerk