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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2007-02-12 Committee of the Whole MinutesCOMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE CALL TO ORDER/PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Council President, Verna Griffin, called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. and led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. OFFICIALS Present were Verna Griffin, Council President, Councilmembers Joe Duffie, Joan Hernandez, Pam Carter, Jim Haggerton, and Pam Linder. Councilmember Robertson was not in attendance. ATTENDANCE Steve Mullet, Mayor; Rhonda Berry, City Administrator; Dave Haynes, Police Chief; Nick Olivas, Fire Chief; Jim Morrow, Public Works Director; Jack Pace, Community Development Deputy Director; Rebecca Fox, Senior Planner; Katherine Kertzman, Tourism Manager; Evelyn Boykan, Human Services Manager; Christy O'Flaherty, Deputy City Clerk. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS TUKWILA CITY COUNCIL February 12, 2007 7:00 p.m. Council Chambers City Hall a. Results of ESL Summit Bonnie Olson, Emerging Design Consultants Evelyn Boykan, Human Services Manager, indicated diversity in Tukwila has changed since the inception of the Human Services Program in the 1990s. In 2006 the decision was made to bring together representatives from providers and stakeholders who were involved in ESL (English as a Second Language) and literacy. The goal was to look at the overall landscape of needs and available services to determine where gaps might exist and to ensure the dollars being utilized are maximized to the fullest extent. Bonnie Olson with Emerging Design Consultants was hired to review the challenges and to identify possible gaps in the system and determine if enhancements were necessary. Ms. Olson referenced the spreadsheet on ESL and literacy services and the summary document from the Community Planning Summit that had been distributed to the Council. She discussed the key points from the summary to include the need to serve whole families; increasing ESL classes, primarily 2nd and 3rd stage courses; expanding collaborations and access to services; focusing on self- sufficiency; and monitoring changes in the larger system to mitigate unexpected events (such as senior citizens losing benefits due to lack of citizenship). Ms. Boykan conveyed that, based on recommendations coming out of the summit, the Human Services Advisory Board suggested funding in two different directions. One partnership involves working with the organization, Para Los Ninos, in that they provide a whole family approach. They offer programs for young children and early learning that include a childcare component. This organization has also partnered with Highline Community College in providing local services. The other agency recommended by the Board is Literacy Source which provided on -site ESL services at a local apartment complex that was very well received. This organization also provides basic education in civics and citizenship. The Councilmembers offered comments about the Human Services program and asked questions of Ms. Boykan and Ms. Olson. They thanked them both for their work in the Tukwila community and for the informative presentation. City of Tukwila Page 2 of 6 City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes February 12. 2007 b. 2006 Chamber of Commerce Report Nancy Damon, President Nancy Damon, President of the Chamber of Commerce, provided packets for distribution to the Council. She discussed the 2006 achievements and milestones of the Chamber to include active participation in regional transportation issues; welcoming of Des Moines businesses to the Chamber; partnering with King County on economic development issues; creation of the "E" (email) Newsletter and weekly bulletin; attendance at Valley Cities meetings; presentation of the ACE Award to the Tukwila Costco as an outstanding business; and involvement in various activities such as the Independence Day Parade, IRS Business Fair, Highway 99 barbecue and a multitude of ribbon cuttings and open house events. The Councilmembers thanked Ms. Damon for the informational update on Chamber of Commerce activities as well as her contribution to the City. CITIZEN COMMENT Linda Smith, Seattle Jaycees Bingo, 11030 East Marginal Way South, thanked the City Council and Mayor for the waiver of gambling taxes. Ms. Smith extended an invitation to any interested parties to an event on February 16, 2007 at 7:30 pm at the Seattle Jaycee Bingo Hall. Information will be provided regarding grant money that is available to non profit organizations in Tukwila. The Jaycees also offer scholarship opportunities to high school students based on leadership and community service. She conveyed the Jaycees hope to get the word out in the community and see high attendance at the event. SPECIAL ISSUES a. Contract with Encore Media West for a Seattle Southside advertisement in the 2007 Washington State Visitors' Guide Councilmember Haggerton indicated this item was discussed at the Finance and Safety Committee meeting on February 5, 2007. The committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. The Tukwila Lodging Tax Advisory Committee recommended the Mayor sign a contract with Encore Media West for a Seattle Southside full back -page, 4 -color ad in the 2007 Washington State Visitors' Guide in the amount of $31,873. This is part of the 2007 budgeted Media Plan. Councilmember Carter asked if, in the future, this could come before the Council earlier to allow a more timely authorization process. Katherine Kertzman, Tourism Manager, indicated her office will be starting in July of this year to allow for the planning and approval process. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. b. Resolution declaring a fire truck and related equipment surplus and authorizing their donation Councilmember Haggerton indicated this item was discussed at the Finance and Safety Committee meeting on February 5, 2007. The committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. Sea -Tac Occupational Skills Center has requested that the Fire Department donate surplus firehose, nozzles, miscellaneous equipment and a surplus 1986 International Pumper to the firefighter program for high school students. The value of the equipment and pumper is estimated to be approximately $7,500. Councilmember Carter relayed that Fife should be added to the list of cities served by the Occupational Skills Center noted in the fourth WHEREAS of the draft resolution. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. City of Tukwila Page 3 of 6 City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes February 12. 2007 c. Water District 125 Infrastructure Transfer Agreement Councilmember Hernandez indicated this item was discussed at the Utilities Committee meeting on January 17, 2007 and February 6, 2007. The committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. This interlocal agreement will transfer infrastructure, including pipes, meters, services, valves, and hydrants from Water District 125 to Tukwila. The boundaries include the Foster Point area and the Interurban area along 1 -5. Service will be provided to 96 customers in these areas with the exception of Baker Commodities, which will remain with Water District 125. The cost of the infrastructure has been assessed at $243,641. The citizens in these areas are already served by Tukwila sewer, and the process of adding water service to the bills is expected to be a smooth transition. After purchase by the City, approval from Cascade Water Alliance and Seattle Public Utilities will be needed, and then customers will be transferred to the City of Tukwila's water district. Councilmember Carter referenced Sections 2.03 and 2.05 of the proposed interlocal agreement and requested clarification as to whether there was a difference in the handling of the Interurban area and the Foster Point area. Jim Morrow, Public Works Director, indicated any differences involve clarification with regard to the maintenance of the water lines until the transfer process is complete. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. d. Resolution declaring an emergency in response to erosion damage on 35th Avenue South Councilmember Carter indicated this item was discussed at the Transportation Committee meeting on February 12, 2007. The committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. City maintenance crews discovered a large sinkhole on 35th Avenue South just south of South 128th Street. The sinkhole resulted from a failed 18" storm water pipe beneath the roadway that conveys Riverton creek. The hole is approximately 6' deep, and there is an exposed sewer pipe and gas main visible that requires immediate repair. This resolution will declare an emergency and allow staff to immediately enter into a construction contract (waiving the competitive bidding requirement) per RCW 39.04.280. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. e. Contract with R. L. Alia Company for 35th Avenue South emergency erosion repair Councilmember Carter indicated this item was discussed at the Transportation Committee meeting on February 12, 2007. The committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. The sink hole discovered by city crews on 35th Avenue South as described in Item d above requires immediate repair. The small works roster was used to solicit bids, and three quotes were received with the lowest quote from R. L. Alia Company in the amount of $41,458.24. This contractor is currently working on other projects in the City and has a good reputation. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. f. 2007 Comprehensive Plan Amendments Rebecca Fox, Senior Planner, provided a briefing on the review process for two proposed Comprehensive Plan amendments. This issue will be forwarded to the regular council meeting on March 5, 2007 for a public meeting. The Council will then decide which items to forward to the Planning Commission for a public hearing and recommendation. City of Tukwila Page 4 of 6 City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes February 12. 2007 The following four criteria are utilized in reviewing and evaluating Comprehensive Plan amendments. 1. Describe how the issue is addressed in the Comprehensive Plan. If the issue is not adequately addressed, is there a need for it? 2. Impacts 3. Is the proposed change the best means for meeting the identified public need? What other options are there for meeting the identified public need? 4. Will the proposed change result in a net benefit to the community? If not, what result can be expected and why? Proposed amendments received from the public and the City are reviewed and adopted once each year unless there is an emergency. Two applications were submitted by the December 31, 2006 deadline as follows: 1. Transit Center Modify Wording. Applicant: Tukwila Department of Community Development. The proposal seeks to modify an existing policy to incorporate current information. The current policy states that a future Transit Center should be sited on Andover Park East between Baker Boulevard and Strander Boulevard; the proposed wording allows somewhat greater flexibility in selecting a location for the future Transit Center. The amendment was requested by the City Attorney and developed in conjunction with the City Attorney and the Public Works Department. 2. Bonsai Northwest Regional Commercial Center (RCC) to Low Density Residential (LDR) at South 144th and 51st Avenue South. Applicant: John Muth. The applicant seeks to redesignate approximately .63 acres of a 1.35 acre site from commercial (RCC) to single family residential (LDR). The property is vacant nursery property adjacent to and associated with the Bonsai Northwest nursery property. Councilmember Hernandez conveyed that in the past it was considered unacceptable to drive by properties under consideration and asked for clarification on this issue. Jack Pace, Community Development Deputy Director, indicated this is a legislative matter and not a quasi judicial issue, and driving by the site would be acceptable. Ms. Fox asked that the Councilmembers bring their notebooks to the March 5, 2007 meeting when this issue will be back before the Council. REPORTS a. Mayor 8:36 p.m. (occurred after Council reports) Mayor Mullet reported that a solution to securing funding for undergrounding on Tukwila International Boulevard has not been found. It may be determined that the City will go out to bid for the entire project and include the undergrounding portion as an additive alternate. The Mayor reminded the Council of the impending visit from the citizens of Miyoshi, Japan. There will be a Sister City business meeting on February 19, 2007 at Gordy's restaurant to discuss the future of the exchange program. There will also be a presentation honoring the visitors at the February 20, 2007 City Council meeting. Any speeches should be provided ahead of time to Bev Willison in the Mayor's Office, so they can be translated into Japanese. A short reception with refreshments will be a part of the meeting as well. Mayor Mullet also conveyed there will be a visit from Russian citizens in late March, 2007. They are interested in learning about retail development matters and will be involved in eight days of intense City of Tukwila Page 5 of 6 City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes February 12. 2007 seminar related activities. The Tukwila Rotary Club is overseeing the event, and host families are still needed for some of the visitors. The Mayor will be attending the Association of Washington Cities (AWC) event this week in Olympia involving interaction with Tukwila's legislators and senators. b. Council 8:17 p.m. Councilmember Hernandez attended the February 6, 2007 Government Affairs Committee meeting. Jim Morrow, Tukwila Public Works Director, gave a presentation on emergency management that was very well received, and he was invited back. Ms. Hernandez also attended the February 7, 2007 AWC Workshop on "Leading High Impact Change The Art of Effective Influencing." She also attended the February 9, 2007 Chamber of Commerce luncheon meeting. Councilmember Carter also attended the February 7, 2007 AWC Workshop and the February 8, 2007 Transportation Policy Board meeting. The Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) corridor study was a topic at the meeting, and the Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) website has additional information on the issue. Ms. Carter also attended the Destination 2030 workgroup meeting on February 8, 2007. An issue of discussion was Senate Bill 5803 involving transportation issues that was found to be contradictory and poorly written. Another bill may be written to clarify the issues and provide better alternatives. Councilmember Carter will also be attending the Association of Washington Cities (AWC) event this week in Olympia involving interaction with Tukwila's legislators and senators. Councilmember Haggerton attended the February 6, 2007 Government Affairs Committee meeting and commented on the positive response to Mr. Morrow's presentation. He also attended the February 8, 2007 event celebrating the 10th birthday of the Tukwila Community Center. He conveyed that the Tukwila American Legion Post is seeking suggestions on ways to improve the Veterans' Memorial at the Community Center. Mr. Haggerton met with members of the School District on February 12, 2007 regarding upcoming telecommunications issues. Councilmember Linder also attended the February 7, 2007 AWC Workshop on "Leading High Impact Change The Art of Effective Influencing." Council President Griffin reported that Diane Jenkins, Council Assistant, has resigned with her last day being February 22, 2007. Efforts are being made to advertise the position as soon as possible. Council President Griffin conveyed that due to the issues relative to work hours and comp time accumulation, it has been suggested the position be upgraded to Legislative Analyst. The broadness of the classification would allow the functions previously agreed upon by the Council to be included under "Essential Duties," "Minimum Qualifications," and "Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities." Council consensus existed to upgrade the position to Legislative Analyst. Discussion ensued among the Councilmembers regarding the hiring process and it was determined that the Council would be provided a copy of the advertisement prior to publication; review of the full application packets would be available to the Councilmembers through the Personnel Division; staff from the Mayor's Office, Personnel Division, and the Council President would interview 5 to 7 applicants; and the top 2 to 3 finalists would be interviewed by the full Council for a final decision. Comments were exchanged regarding the need for further discussion about the fine points of the necessary job duties. Council President Griffin indicated there would be time for additional discussion between now and the time the position is filled. Rhonda Berry, City Administrator, indicated the hiring process typically takes approximately six weeks. She also relayed that the Personnel Division will be contacted regarding hiring a temporary staff person until the process is complete. c. Staff City of Tukwila Page 6 of 6 City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes February 12. 2007 There was no report. d. City Attorney The City Attorney was not present. e. Intergovernmental There was no report. MISCELLANEOUS There were no comments. ADJOURNMENT 9:07 p.m. COUNCIL PRESIDENT GRIFFIN DECLARED THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING ADJOURNED. Verna Griffin, Council President (9F. Christy O'FlaTI'erty, Deputy City Clerk i„