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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2007-12-10 Committee of the Whole MinutesTUKWILA CITY COUNCIL December 10, 2007 7:00 p.m. Council Chambers City Hall EXECUTIVE SESSION Personnel Issue; pursuant to RCW 42.30.110(1)(g), (30 minutes) Executive Session Began: 6:30 p.m. Executive Session Ended: 6:50 p.m. COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MINUTES CALL TO ORDER/PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Council President Verna Griffin called the meeting to order at 7:03 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, Pam Linder, and Dennis Robertson. ATTENDANCE Steven Mullet, Mayor; Rhonda Berry, City Administrator; Shelley Kerslake, City Attorney; Kevin Fuhrer, Finance Director; Jack Pace, Community Development Director; Lynn Miranda, Senior Planner; Sandra Whiting, Urban Environmentalist; Bruce Fletcher, Parks and Recreation Director; Rick Still, Parks and Recreation Deputy Director; Derek Speck, Economic Development Administrator; Katherine Kertzman, Tourism Manager; David Haynes, Police Chief; Kimberly Matej, Council Analyst; Christy O'Flaherty, Deputy City Clerk. AMEND AGENDA 7:04 p.m. COUNCIL PRESIDENT GRIFFIN DECLARED THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING RECESSED AT THIS TIME TO REARRANGE THE ORDER OF AGENDA ITEMS. MAYOR MULLET WILL CALL THE SPECIAL MEETING TO ORDER. (Special Meeting Minutes available under separate cover.) 7:30 p.m. COUNCIL PRESIDENT GRIFFIN RECONVENED THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING. Councilmember Robertson reiterated his concerns conveyed earlier this evening during the Special Meeting regarding Committee of the Whole Special Issues Item 4D and Special Meeting Item 4C regarding authorizing the Mayor to sign Amendment #1 to Contract #03 -058 with Starfire Sports. He indicated this item did not follow the standard process of going to a Council Committee, Committee of the Whole, and subsequent Regular Meeting. In his view, the issue does not represent a substantial emergency, and public comment by those affected by the agreement (such as softball proponents) may need to be solicited. He also conveyed there were some unresolved parking issues in the past contract that may need to be worked through as well. He believes this issue requires consideration at a future Community Affairs and Parks Committee meeting and a subsequent Committee of the Whole and Regular Meeting. He is asking for Council consensus to remove this item from the Committee of the Whole agenda this evening. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO REMOVE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE SPECIAL ISSUES ITEM 4D STARFIRE SPORTS CONTRACT AMENDMENT FROM THE AGENDA WITH CARTER AND HAGGERTON DISSENTING. Councilmembers Carter and Haggerton recognized that procedure had not been followed on this issue. They relayed that some discussion, during the Committee of the Whole meeting this evening could be both beneficial and timely. City of Tukwila Page 2 of 6 City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes December 10. 2007 SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS a. Introduction of new employees: Stephanie Gardner, Administrative Secretary I, Parks and Recreation and Kristen German Perez, Aquatics Program Assistant, Parks and Recreation Department Bruce Fletcher, Parks and Recreation Director, indicated that Kristen German -Perez was unable to attend this evening. She was needed to work at the Tukwila Pool due to the illness of another employee. Mr. Fletcher introduced Stephanie Gardner, Administrative Secretary 1, in the Parks and Recreation Department. Ms. Gardner was chosen from among very qualified applicants. She has a Parks and Recreation degree from the University of Maine and has been working in the field for the past 12 years. Previously she was the Recreation Director for a small resort community in New Hampshire. The Councilmembers welcomed Ms. Gardner to the City of Tukwila. b. Tukwila Pond Water Quality Feasibility Study Design; Harry Gibbons, Environmental Discipline Lead /Principal Limnologist and David Cline, Project Engineer from TetraTech, Inc. Sandra Whiting, Urban Environmentalist, introduced David Cline and Harry Gibbons from TetraTech who will be giving an update on the results of the water quality feasibility study for the Tukwila Pond. Harry Gibbons from TetraTech used a Powerpoint presentation to illustrate an overview and summary of issues associated with the water quality of Tukwila Pond to include: Tukwila Pond Management Objectives: (1) Improve water quality; (2) Improve aquatic habitat; (3) Enhance aesthetic experience; (4) Expand public recreational opportunities Existing Conditions: Shallow urban pond (approximately 16 acres); very poor water quality due to high nutrients, excess primary production (algal blooms), low water dissolved oxygen; limited aquatic habitat due to poor water quality and lack of diversity Causes of Poor Water Quality: Excessive nutrient loading due to external watershed and groundwater and internal sediments and biota (waterfowl and plant decay) Recommendations regarding stormwater issues and in -lake treatment (alum treatment combined with air circulation and planting of southwest corner of pond with emergents) Next steps to include completion of feasibility study and final design of preferred alternative The Councilmembers asked questions of Mr. Gibbons regarding various aspects of the project and thanked him for the informative presentation. c. Tukwila Pond Park Master Plan Update; Robert Droll, Robert Droll Landscape Architects Rick Still, Parks and Recreation Deputy Director, introduced Robert Droll, Landscape Architect for the Tukwila Pond Park Master Plan, to the Council. Mr. Droll utilized a Powerpoint presentation to describe the various elements of the Tukwila Pond Park Master Plan to include descriptive information of the following: Three overlooks into the pond Floating Boardwalk Floating Habitat Island Aeration Fountain Feeder Brook Landings and Trails Landscape improvements and invasive plant removal /restoration Access to trails and the Urban Core Mr. Droll relayed the total cost estimate for design, construction, and contingencies for the Tukwila Pond Park (not including the water quality improvements) is $2.8 million. Grant funding will be sought for this project. He also conveyed the project would take approximately 4 -5 months to complete. Summer would be the best time to proceed with the project as the water level is down, and disruption to wildlife would be City of Tukwila Page 3 of 6 City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes December 10. 2007 minimized as the breeding season would be past. The Audubon Society will be contacted prior to implementation, and permits must be acquired from the Department of Fish and Wildlife. Kathy Hougardy, 14950 57th Avenue South, referenced a misleading sign on the northwest corner of Strander Boulevard on the west side of Target. The sign gives the impression there is parking for the Tukwila Pond Park in this area, when it is really inaccessible. She would like this issue investigated and stressed the importance of addressing parking issues when developing the park. Brian Kennedy, 12802 37th Avenue South, inquired as to the possibility of the pond filling up with silt. He also asked about the possibility of putting up a walkway adjacent to the wall on the north side of the pond. Mr. Droll explained that a walkway adjacent to the wall on the north side of the pond would encroach on and disturb the edge of the pond. Sandra Whiting, Urban Environmentalist, stated the pond is not silting in," and the stormwater increases the water level significantly. Allan Ekberg, 4920 South 161st Street, made 3 inquiries: (1) Is the pond water accessible to pedestrians; (2) Will vessels such as kayaks be allowed in the pond; (3) Will there be a viewing area where visitors could look at the wildlife without being noticed. It was explained that due to the desire to allow the edge of the pond to remain undisturbed and protect the wildlife and natural habitat, it is not intended that there be pedestrian or boat access to the water. There is also no plan for an observation area that would allow viewing of wildlife without being noticed. There is also some concern about a lack of visibility presenting safety concerns for visitors. The Councilmembers asked questions of Mr. Droll and Ms. Whiting regarding the presentation, and thanked them both for their work on this project. CITIZEN COMMENT Gerry Myklebust, 14718 58th Avenue South, has had recent interactions with members of the Somali community who would like to work to address some ongoing problems. Two members of the community are here this evening, and Mr. Myklebust submitted a one -page document outlining their concerns. Mohamed Hassan, Somali Community Service Coalition, Community Education Coordinator, 15027 Military Road South, #4 -5, SeaTac, stressed the desire to begin dialogue with the appropriate City staff to work toward resolving on -going issues. The Councilmembers thanked Mr. Hassan for coming this evening and provided him information on community groups and Council Committees that can be of assistance. Mr. Hassan will be contacted by City staff with options for moving forward toward further discussion. Susan Best, 14115 55th Avenue South, referenced safety concerns regarding children waiting for the bus in the area of Joseph Foster Memorial Park on 53rd Avenue South. Lack of sidewalks and curbs on this busy street, where speeding frequently occurs, presents a danger to children waiting for the bus or for pedestrians walking in the area. She would like to see action taken to correct this problem. Councilmember Carter suggested that while the long -term solution involves street improvements in the area, a short-term concept would be to contact the Tukwila School District. Since this involves children waiting for a school bus, perhaps they would be willing to relocate the bus stop as a safety measure. The Council Analyst took Ms. Best's contact information, and the issue will be investigated. Chris Slatt, Starfire Sports Complex in Tukwila, referenced an exciting opportunity that has come to the City. It has been recently announced that the Puget Sound area will be the home for the 15th ranked major league soccer team in the United States. Some of the players live in the area, and the team currently has 10,000 season ticket holders, with a great deal of support in the community. Starfire Sports Complex is being considered as the "practice home" for the franchise, and there is competitive interest by other communities to fulfill that role. Mr. Slatt relayed there will be no increase in parking needs at the City of Tukwila Page 4 of 6 City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes December 10. 2007 facility, and if Starfire Sports becomes the "practice home" for the franchise, it should benefit the youth of the area. Katherine Kertzman, Tourism Manager, provided an update on the upcoming Tukwila Centennial celebration. The kick -off event will be held on January 8, 2008 on top of the parking garage at Westfield Shopping Center. The entire time for the event is 11:00 am -3:00 pm, with the opening ceremony occurring in the first 30 -45 minutes. This event, as well as other Centennial activities, will be advertised within all City publications and media. SPECIAL ISSUES a. Fort Dent Play Equipment Bid Award. Councilmember Linder indicated this item was discussed at the Community Affairs and Parks Committee meeting on November 27, 2007. The committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. Rick Still, Parks and Recreation Deputy Director, provided an overview of this topic. The 2008 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) includes replacement of play equipment at the Fort Dent playground. Fort Dent is the largest park in the City and has very heavy use. The cost will increase by 15% in 2008, and the recommendation is to purchase the equipment in 2007. Northwest Playground Equipment was the successful bidder with a price of $169,616.29 for the play equipment. It was noted that City staff will handle removal of the existing equipment. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO TONIGHT'S SPECIAL MEETING. b. Tukwila Community Center Spray Park Bid Award. Councilmember Linder indicated this item was discussed at the Community Affairs and Parks Committee meeting on November 27, 2007. The committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. Rick Still, Parks and Recreation Deputy Director, provided a summary of this issue. The 2008 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) includes construction of the Spray Park at the Community Center. The cost will increase by 15% in 2008, and the recommendation is to purchase the equipment in 2007. This aquatic playground will include the following: water rail, water weave, water way, water web, water sprout, pop drop, splash- o- lator, spill mix, water cage, daddy long legs, plain drain, touch go, spin 'n' spray fish, and baby long legs. Northwest Playground Equipment was the successful bidder with a price of $209,244.54. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO TONIGHT'S SPECIAL MEETING. c. An ordinance fixing the amount of compensation for Councilmembers through December 31, 2011. Councilmember Haggerton indicated this item was discussed at the Finance and Safety Committee meeting on December 3, 2007. The committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. Ordinance #2023 setting Council compensation expires on December 31, 2007. A new ordinance is required to provide staff the ability to process Councilmember pay subsequent to the sunset date. There has been no change made in the rate of compensation, which remains at $1,050.00 per month. The average Council salary in local valley cities is $1,049.20. Councilmember Carter suggested the Council be forward thinking and consider reviewing salaries next year to take affect in 2010, to assure Councilmembers are not paid at different rates. She also indicated the words "continue to" should be removed from the sentence the Tukwila City Council shall continuc to receive the following monthly compensation...." The ordinance language would flow better when codified into the Tukwila Municipal Code with this change. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO TONIGHT'S SPECIAL MEETING. City of Tukwila Page 5 of 6 Citv Council Committee of the Whole Minutes December 10. 2007, d. Starfire Sports Contract Amendment. This item was removed from discussion per the Agenda Amendment on Page 1. e. City Council discussion of proposed appointment process to fill Council vacancy. Kimberly Matej, Council Analyst, provided an overview of this issue. As a result of the November 6, 2007 election, there will be a position vacancy on the Tukwila City Council as of January 1, 2008. It is the Council's responsibility to appoint an individual to serve the remainder of the term for Council Position #7 through December 31, 2009. A proposed process for appointment has been provided to the Councilmembers for review and approval. Concern was expressed regarding wording on page 3 of the informational memorandum (page 45 of the agenda packet) that indicates Councilmembers "will" attend Newly Elected Officials training and the Council Retreat. Discussion ensued among the Councilmembers and it was noted, there is no authority to force attendance at trainings or Committee of the Whole meetings. That section of the application packet will be amended, and the word "will" removed in reference to attendance at the training and retreat. The public will be allowed to provide questions to be asked of the candidates that will be reviewed by the City Attorney, who will provide oversight during the interview process. The same questions will be asked of all candidates. A negative answer to questions involving past or future filings for elected office will not disqualify candidates. Discussion ensued regarding the time commitment statement of 10 -15 hours per week on page 2 of the informational memorandum (page 47 of the agenda packet). The decision was made to change the hours to 15 -20 hours per week, and the word "require" removed in reference to the time commitment. Council President Griffin thanked Kimberly Matej, Council Analyst, for her work on the process and the application packet. It was suggested the process be utilized for future Councilmember appointments. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO TONIGHT'S SPECIAL MEETING. 9:52 pm Council President Griffin declared a five minute recess. 10:01 pm Council President Griffin reconvened the Committee of the Whole meeting. REPORTS a. Mayor The Mayor had no report. b. City Council Councilmember Duffie expressed appreciation to the Tukwila Police Department regarding recent events at the Tukwila School District and the teacher walkout. Councilmember Hernandez attended the December 5, 2007 Government Affairs luncheon. She also attended the AWC Housing Policy Committee meeting and the Equity and Diversity Commission meeting on December 6, 2007. The Commission will assist students at Foster High School with the acquisition of a "welcome banner" that has multiple language translations. On December 13, 2007 the Historical Society members have been invited to an open house event at the Nelsen house from 6:00 -8:00 p.m. Councilmember Carter reported she has 5 more meetings to attend before the end of the year regarding traffic safety and transportation related issues. Councilmember Haggerton attended the Government Affairs lunch and the Jail Oversight Committee meeting on December 5, 2007. He also attended the Suburban Cities South Regional Caucus the same evening. City of Tukwila Page 6 of 6 City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes December 10. 2007 Council President Griffin attended the December 6, 2007 Equity and Diversity Commission meeting. There are openings for two Equity and Diversity Commission members one from the community and one from the School District. On January 15, 2008, the Multicultural Action Committee will be having a special presentation for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. She expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve as Council President during 2007. c. Staff Rhonda Berry, City Administrator, reported that communication has occurred with Sound Transit regarding last week's citizen comment from Vanessa Zaputil. There were safety concerns regarding access to a water retention pond. The City has been informed that the gates to the pond will be locked. Ms. Berry also reported the City will be participating in the "Adopt a Family" program and further information can be provided by Bruce Fletcher, Parks and Recreation Director. Ms. Berry indicated that on December 6, 2007 the Council was provided a memorandum regarding the formation of a Public Facilities District (PFD) for Fort Dent Park. The City has received a request from Starfire Sports to consider forming a PFD, which would own and operate Fort Dent Park. The District would then contract with Starfire Sports to operate the facility. In order for this to be a possibility, there must be a change in State law. Currently cities in King County are not eligible to create PFDs. It has been requested that we attempt to lobby for this change during the upcoming legislative session. Input is being requested from the City Council as to whether the staff should put time into pursuing this issue. The benefit to Tukwila is that the City would not be required to pay for the maintenance and operation of Fort Dent Park, which is approximately $60,000 per year. There would also be a dedicated revenue source for that facility, which is the portion of the sales tax that Tukwila does not currently receive (the State's portion of the sales tax). With the creation of a PFD, the City would experience a lack of control over the district. While the City holds the power of appointing members of the PFD, the development, management and operation of projects will reside with the board members. The Councilmembers exchanged comments regarding this issue. It was determined that additional information and time to investigate unintended consequences would be necessary before the Council would be willing to move forward on the creation of a PFD for Fort Dent Park. d. City Attorney The City Attorney's presence is not required at Committee of the Whole meetings. e. Intergovernmental There was no report. MISCELLANEOUS Councilmember Linder expressed regard for the work of the Council during a tough year and expressed thanks to Kimberly Matej, Council Analyst. ADJOURN TO SPECIAL MEETING 10:23 .m. COUNCIL PRESIDENT GRIFFIN DECLARED THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEENG ADJOURNED TO RECONVENE THE SPECIAL MEETING. LP Verna Griffin, Council President Christy O'Fla y, Deputy City CI /k