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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008-07-14 Committee of the Whole MinutesTUKWILA CITY COUNCIL July 14, 2008 7:00 pm Council Chambers City Hall COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE CALL TO ORDER/PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Council President Joe Duffie called the meeting to order at 7:05 pm and led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. Council President Duffie asked all City employees, citizens and visitors to stand and be recognized. He also expressed appreciation to Barbara Saxton for her assistance at City Council meetings over the past few months during the hiring process for a new Deputy City Clerk. OFFICIALS Present were Joe Duffle, Council President; Councilmembers Joan Hernandez, Pam Linder, Dennis Robertson, Verna Griffin, Kathy Hougardy, and De'Sean Quinn. ATTENDANCE Jim Haggerton, Mayor; Rhonda Berry, City Administrator; Derek Speck, Economic Development Administrator; Jack Pace, Community Development Director; Jim Morrow, Public Works Director; David Haynes, Police Chief; Mary Miotke, Information Technology Director; Evelyn Boykan, Human Services Manager; Rebecca Fox, Senior Planner; Moira Bradshaw, Senior Planner; Jaimie Reavis, Assistant Planner; Kimberly Matej, Council Analyst; Barbara Saxton, Acting Deputy City Clerk CITIZEN COMMENT Annette Gray, 15232 62nd Ave. S., Tukwila, is the Block Watch Captain at the San Juan Apartments. She expressed concern regarding a potential new development on 65th Avenue S. She displayed two photographs of trees behind the apartments and asked if they would remain. She also expressed concern about traffic impacts of the new development. Ms. Gray was advised her concerns would be addressed under item 4.c. Ron Howell, 7807 46th Ave. S., Seattle, is a former resident of Tukwila and currently works in Tukwila. He expressed concern regarding the recent drowning in the Duwamish River. He noted this is not the first incident of this kind and suggested fencing or a "Keep Out" sign may deter children from going to the area. He feels a "Danger" or "Keep Out" sign may have prevented this tragedy. Rhonda Berry, City Administrator, noted a challenge associated with signs would be determining where to place them, i.e. along the entire stretch of the river or only at certain points and, if so, at which points. Although the issue has not been researched, fencing may be problematic due to shoreline issues. Councilmember Hougardy noted the Willamette River in Oregon is similar in that it looks calm on the surface but has a strong undercurrent. She recalls there is signage of some type there. Councilmember Quinn expressed appreciation to Mr. Howell for taking the time to express his concern. Mr. Howell stated the area under the bridge would need the most attention (as opposed to the area along 42nd Avenue S.), as people there cannot be seen or heard. He also suggested it would be helpful to distribute educational information to residents in the area. City of Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes PUBLIC HEARING Page 2 of 10 July 14. 2008 The second amendment to the Development Agreement with WEA Southcenter, LLC, regarding signage. Councilmember Hernandez indicated this item was discussed at the Community Affairs and Parks Committee on June 23, 2008. As part of the Tukwila Centennial celebration, signs were posted on the Southcenter Mall garages on a temporary basis. Westfield would like authorization to continue signage• that would display products and services available at the Mall. Moira Bradshaw, Senior Planner, stated this is the second amendment to an existing development agreement between the City of Tukwila and Westfield. There was an agreement for the City to display 11 Centennial celebration signs on each of the three faces of the two garages. The current Sign Code does not deal with this issue, except to say that on- premise signage is allowed. These signs would allow copy for products and services available at the Mall. Councilmember Robertson expressed concern about the lack of control governing these signs, as the potential display area is not interior to the building and would be visible from the freeway and other streets in the City. He noted the only specific limitation is for no alcohol or cigarette ads. He referenced item 2.f. of the amendment, which states a sign permit would "not be required to change the copy, frame, lighting or orientation." Ms. Bradshaw confirmed there were no similar brand alliance signs anywhere else in the City. She explained these signs would essentially be business signage, and new signs would not be allowed for Westfield or businesses that already have exterior signs. She used BJ's Restaurant and Brewhouse as an example, as that business already has two exterior signs. Ms. Bradshaw stated the intent was for the actual fixtures to require a permit as they are a permanent portion of the signage, but changes to the copy would be allowed. She also confirmed the City's Sign Code does not allow for flashing or animated signs. 7:25 pm Council President Duffie opened the public hearing and called for citizen comments. Richard Chung, 633 Southcenter Mall, Tukwila, is the developer on the project for Westfield. He noted Westfield has spent considerable dollars to expand the Mall, and their intent for the signage is to promote on- premise services and products. Their goal is to promote a high -end, sophisticated product. Westfield feels the brand alliance signage is a good idea, or they would not have allowed the City to place panels on the garages for the past six months. The intent of the lighting is to illuminate the panels from the face (not from behind) so they can be seen in the dark. The contract stipulates any change in the type of framing system would require approval. 7:27 pm Council President Duffie closed the public hearing. Councilmember Robertson stated a contract such as this should be considered in the same manner as a zoning change, where it is possible a property owner may change in the future. The contract as written does not place limits on the copy, lighting or orientation. At the request of Councilmember Quinn, Jack Pace, Community Development Director, reiterated some of the information provided during the committee review. He stated there is a different level of standards for constitutional issues (regarding sign content) for an agreement as opposed to an ordinance. The content restrictions in place include: (1) No alcohol or cigarette ads; (2) No advertisements for businesses not at the Mall; (3) No duplication of other signage. The intent of changing the orientation was to allow signs to be displayed in either landscape or portrait format without requiring a new sign permit. Mr. Pace also explained this location is unique, as the only other parking garages in the City are at Boeing Employees Credit Union and a Boeing Company garage, neither of which are retail in the traditional sense. The City's current Sign Code does not address parking garages with no retail activity. This amendment is also considered a "stop gap measure" while the Sign Code Advisory Committee is working on an update to the City's Sign Code. To address concerns about built -in lighting, Mr. Pace suggested wording be added to the opening paragraph of Section 2 stating brand alliance signs "shall not City of Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes Councilmember Robertson noted the City has been conservative in the past regarding signage, and suggested a shorter period for review and renegotiation (3 to 5 years) would be an additional control measure. Councilmember Hougardy stated that while the signs may be tasteful and provide a revenue stream, some people might consider them to be glorified billboards. Page 3 of 10 July 14, 2008 be internally lit" (must have exterior lighting). He also noted state constitutional requirements require the new Sign Code be content neutral, whereas the development agreement provides more control and stipulations on size and location. Mr. Pace confirmed the agreement has a sunset clause of 10 years (item 3.C. of the agreement). He explained that should the new Sign Code be more restrictive regarding this signage, 10 years would allow the owner to amortize the expense incurred for building these signs. Mr. Pace noted the regional mall plan included a brand alliance sign on the Mall itself, which the owners have agreed to remove as part of this second amendment to the development agreement (item 2.H.). He also confirmed a brand alliance sign would not have multiple messages. Derek Speck, Economic Development Administrator, stated there are certain areas of the City where the City is actively working to eliminate billboards, and addressed some of the differences in this situation, explaining the concept of an "enclosed mall" has been in transition throughout the nation. People tend to gravitate to external malls. Parking garages do not look vibrant from the outside. The brand alliance signage is a way of creating something colorful and energetic outside that fits in a retail context. He also agreed with the suggestion of reviewing and renewing the policy, in order to encourage the Mall to maintain high standards in good taste. At the request of Councilmember Quinn, Mr. Pace explained the process currently underway regarding updating the City's Sign Code. The Sign Code was created a long time ago and envisioned a different Tukwila than exists today. The Sign Code Advisory Committee is working to deal with signage today and also looking ahead in the future, such as making Southcenter more pedestrian friendly, which would have different signage issues. He also noted the buildings in question are large 2- to 3 -story parking structures, so the signs do not give the appearance of billboards. The 10 -year vesting clause was to provide a compromise that would allow the Sign Code Committee the flexibility to be more restrictive, if desired, while letting the property owner make an investment in signage that can be amortized over a typical business time period. Councilmember Hernandez suggested amending the agenda to complete discussion on this item, rather than stopping and resuming again under item 4.b. Consensus existed to continue the discussion. Councilmember Robertson suggested the time period in Section 3.C. be changed from 10 years to 5 years before review and renewal. Mr. Pace confirmed the change would not conflict with the original agreement. He asked for clarification as to whether the renewal process would come to the Community Development Director or back to Council. Consensus was renewal would be based on approval by the Community Development Director for another 5 years. The majority of the Council expressed they were comfortable with the verbiage as written (10 years). COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. City of Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes SPECIAL ISSUES Page 4 of 10 July 14. 2008 a. Interlocal agreement regarding the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Home Investment Partnerships (HOME) programs. Councilmember Hernandez indicated this item was discussed at the Community Affairs and Parks Committee on June 23, 2008. The committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. Staff is seeking approval to enter into an interlocal agreement with King County, which would extend through the 2009, 2010 and 2011 program years. In order to compete for CDBG funds, the City must enter into this formalized agreement with King County. At the request of Councilmember Linder, Evelyn Boykan, Human Services Manager, explained the CDBG funds are from Housing Urban Development and allow the City to assist low- income and up to moderate income residents. The HOME funds are federal funds used to preserve and develop permanent housing for low- income people. The City's Minor Home Repair program is dependent on our participation in this consortium. The agreement allows Tukwila to compete for funds and operate our programs, and to make recommendations for our community, our sub region and region as far as capital projects and public service projects. Ms. Boykan also clarified the agreement was recently approved by King County Council so it is no longer a draft. Councilmember Robertson questioned item IV.A.3, which mentions four cities that are not signing this agreement. Ms. Boykan explained some cities are large enough to deal directly with HUD and, therefore, do not participate in the consortium. Some projects, however, use HOME only funds, and in those cases those cities would have an opportunity to vote on those projects (but not on a project that takes place in a city that belongs to the consortium). Depending on the type of funding and type of project, some members of the Joint Recommendations Committee (JRC) can vote and sometimes they do not vote. A "joint city" means a city is large enough to be their own entitlement with HUD but they choose not to, and thereby they still have an arrangement with the County as part of the consortium. Federal Way and Renton are considered joint cities. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. b. The second amendment to the Development Agreement with WEA Southcenter, LLC, regarding signage. A consensus was reached under item 3 to move this item forward with one amendment as discussed. c. 2008 Comprehensive Plan Amendments (to be conducted in a Public Meeting format). Councilmember Hernandez indicated this item was discussed at the Community Affairs and Parks Committee on June 9, 2008. The committee members were unanimous in recommending approval to forward this item for discussion and public input. Council President Duffie called for comments from the audience. Rebecca Fox, Senior Planner, explained no action is needed tonight. She referenced the chart on page 92 of the agenda packet that outlines the various steps in the review process. The threshold decision to be made at the next Regular Meeting would be whether or not to forward the item to the Planning Commission for additional review. This year's Comprehensive Plan amendment is site specific and, therefore, is a quasi judicial decision. Any proposal that would go to the Planning Commission would then have environmental review. The Planning Commission would hold a hearing and take public comment, and then make a recommendation to the City Council. The applicant would like to redesignate approximately 1.41 acres of a 5 -acre site from low density residential to multi family residential (at approximately S. 152nd Street and 65th Avenue S.). There is a mixture of single family and multi family homes in the vicinity. There are 14 single family homes to the City of Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes north in the Maple Tree subdivision. There are approximately 260 units of multi family apartments and condominiums to the east. To the south are single family homes, the San Juan South apartments, City Hall, Tukwila Park, and, to the west, Sunwood Condominiums. The entire site is wooded, with two wetlands with buffers on the east and west. There is 15 to 40 percent slope on much of the land, especially on the eastern two- thirds. The request for rezone is only on the eastern one third. A wetland delineation study and geotechnical study were prepared. Any future development would require a more thorough wetland study. Ms. Fox noted that Attachment 6 (page 105 of the agenda packet) is a preliminary site plan provided by the applicant. There are proposed park trails on the western portion that the applicant has proposed to donate to the City; however, she stressed this portion is not part of the rezone. She also noted the preliminary plan shows some off -site parking. She explained any development that would occur would require parking on site. She reiterated the attachment is a preliminary proposal provided by the applicant that has not been formally reviewed by staff and would not necessarily be the type of development that would occur. Under low density residential, this 1.4 -acre parcel could have a maximum of 6.7 units per acre. On this site you could have a maximum of 9 lots under current zoning. Under the rezone proposal, you could have 14 -1/2 units per acre, so this site could potentially have a maximum of 20 units per acre. The maximum height under both zoning provisions is 30 feet. The site is constrained by slope and the wetland buffer. A planned residential development is a way to allow greater flexibility to allow additional open space and retain vegetation on the site. In response to a request from Councilmember Linder, Ms. Fox reviewed the specific questions to be used by Council in considering the proposed amendment. Ms. Fox referenced the discussion criteria on pages 89 and 90 of the agenda packet, which includes four specific questions and related goals and policies. Is the issue already adequately addressed in the Comprehensive Plan? Is there a public need for the proposed change? Is the proposed change the best means for meeting the identified public need? Will the proposed change result in a net benefit to the community? Councilmember Robertson asked for clarification on zoning around the site, which was confirmed as follows: Zoning to the north is all LDR. Zoning to the west is half LDR and half HDR. Zoning to the south is entirely LDR, but includes some apartment buildings (San Juan South). Zoning to the east is entirely MDR. Council President Duffie again called for public comment. Page 5 of 10 July 14, 2008 Ms. Fox stated three letters have already been received from the public, which are included in the agenda packet. Councilmember Hernandez disclosed she lives within close proximity to the property, and stated she feels she can be impartial and would like to sit on the Council for the issue unless there are objections. Annette Gray repeated her earlier question (asked under "Citizen Comments Ms. Fox stated the trees are in the buffer zone and —per Attachment 6 in the agenda packet —the buffer zone is not part of the rezone. The buffer zone for the wetland identified as Class 3 on the east side has a 50 -foot buffer. On the west side is a Class 2 wetland with an 80 -foot buffer. Hugh Tobin, 15165 62nd Ave. S., Tukwila, stated there is an LDR subdivision immediately to the west of the subject site. He stated the proposal calls for moving the zoning boundary on one small portion of the lot from where it is now at 65th Ave. S., which is the eastern boundary of the site and the boundary between the LDR and MDR, to the border of a wetland. He feels it is an unusual concept to "up zone" the property immediately adjacent to a sensitive area to a zoning classification that is higher than what is immediately north and south of it —and not divide it from the site by a road or other boundary. City of Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes Page 6 of 10 July 14.2008 Deb Sorenson, 6221 S. 151st PI., Tukwila (which is Tract 5 on the map), stated 65th is already a very busy street, and wonders why both sides of the street are always lined with cars if on -site parking is required. She also noted the area to the north and south of the proposed tract is single family homes. She is also concerned about the "protection" provided by the wetland buffer, as her property actually contains wetland. Rick Roberts, 10305 Canyon Rd., Puyallup, stated the property owner is his client. He stated three quarters of the property is proposed to be given to the City as open space. The development would be on the east side of the tract and would be developed as duplexes. The development would not bother the wetlands or single family lots to the north. He stated many of the apartments on the east and south sides are older buildings and do not have much storm drainage. This development will have proper storm drainage because of new rules in effect. Water from houses and roads will be treated and not dumped into the wetlands. A. J. Bredberg, 3303 43rd St., Gig Harbor, stated he is the wetland scientist that did the preliminary work on the wetlands. The property owners for half the site are represented by an attorney (for an estate), and Mr. Ray Halstead and his son own the other half. Wetlands and buffer encumber the majority of the property. There is developable land and there are options of working with a PRD (planned residential development), which would result in a large number of houses. Changing the zoning of the eastern portion would result in a better use. Because the property is on an arterial, the Growth Management Act encourages directing housing density into the urban areas. He stated this project would only impact two or three single family lots, and the majority of the trees would be left as is. If a traditional single family residential development were constructed here, there could be provisions for reasonable use exceptions, which may not provide as much preservation of open space as the current proposal. Ms. Fox clarified staff does not take a position on this project. Staff has prepared information for Council's review, and worked with the applicant and the consultant to that end. Andrea Sipe, 14961 62nd Ave. S., Tukwila, stated her parents built her current home over 50 years ago. She is against making changes to the zoning. She feels adding more rental properties would be a detriment, but acknowledged she might feel differently about a development where the residents would be the owners of the property. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. d. Draft Walk and Roll Plan. Councilmember Linder indicated this item was discussed at the Transportation Committee on May 28, 2008 and June 10, 2008. The committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. Ms. Linder complimented staff on gathering input from many sources and guiding the committee members through the process. Jaimie Reavis, Assistant Planner, explained Walk and Roll is a Citywide bicycle and pedestrian plan. She stated no formal action is required this evening, and a Public Hearing has been scheduled for July 21, 2008. The draft plan has been reviewed by the Transportation Committee, which provided a list of recommendations for changes (items 1 -4 on page 111 of the agenda packet). The draft was also presented to the Community Affairs and Parks Committee for information, and an intensive public outreach effort and public input went into the draft plan. Comments from the public and Council will be gathered through the end of the Public Hearing next week. A final version will be presented to the Transportation Committee, including a response to the comments and an ordinance for adoption. Among the major policy items to be addressed are whether to adopt a complete street resolution or ordinance. Such an ordinance /resolution would state the City would consider all users of the roadways (including non motorized users) and provide for each of the users in the roadway when street improvements are made. Another policy item is prioritization, meaning which projects to build first. As items are added to the CIP, the plan could provide criteria for prioritizing those projects. City of Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes Page 7 of 1.0 July 14, 2008 Councilmember Hernandez stated she supports the majority of the plan but feels some implementation strategies should be decided on a case -by -case basis, as rigid guidelines do not fit every situation. She also noted Table 3 on page 20, which lists streets missing sidewalks within one quarter mile of a school, shows Sunwood Boulevard as not having sidewalks. She clarified Phase 1 of the street does have sidewalks. She noted that project is a good example of the importance of requiring a builder to construct streets according to public standards and then turn the street over to the City for maintenance, as the right -of -way and sidewalks were not required during the Phase 2 portion. Councilmember Robertson stated the description of item 19d of Attachment A (on page 118 of the agenda packet) should be modified to replace the words "Tukwila School District," to read as follows: To help build safe routes to school, and obtain Safe Routes to School grant funding, the city should devote staff time to building a partnership with the surrounding iurisdictions and the appropriate school districts He explained those "surrounding jurisdictions and school districts" could potentially include the Renton School District, Highline School District, the City of SeaTac, and King County, in addition to the Tukwila School District. He also suggested the wording of the Potential Action for item 20 (on the same page) be revised to reflect a combination of the two methods listed, rather than one or the other. In his view, prioritization should be driven by safety. A sidewalk may not be required on every street within a quarter mile of a school, but they should all be checked and any particularly dangerous streets identified to determine where sidewalks are needed. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. e. Sale and Distribution of Reclaimed Water Commodity Wholesale Agreement with King County. Councilmember Griffin indicated this item was discussed at the Utilities Committee meeting on February 19, 2008, April 7, 2008, and June 2, 2008. The committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. Jim Morrow, Public Works Director, stated Tukwila is ahead of other cities in the area of using reclaimed water from the Renton Treatment Plant. The City is already using reclaimed water at Fort Dent for irrigation, for streetscape watering near the Riverside Casino, and at a purple hydrant near the George Long facility. When contractors need water for erosion or dust control, they put a meter on the purple hydrant and purchase the water. This agreement with King County is for the terms and conditions of purchasing that reclaimed water from Metro. It sets the cost to the City at 80 percent of the Seattle Public Utilities new contract price for wholesale potable water. Councilmember Quinn clarified that since he does work for King County he would recuse himself from this issue if there were any objections from Council. He stated he has not worked on this issue, and any decision he made would consider what is best for the citizens of Tukwila. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. f. Reclaimed Water Line Extension Project /Interlocal Agreement with King County. Councilmember Griffin indicated this item was discussed at the Utilities Committee meeting on February 19, 2008, April 7, 2008, and June 2, 2008. The committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. Jim Morrow, Public Works Director, explained Foster Links currently pumps water out of the Green River, which is stored in a pond and used to irrigate the golf course. This agreement with King County would extend this reclaimed water line in order to provide for a more effective and greater use in the future. The reclaimed water line currently in Interurban Avenue would be extended further onto the golf course. The City currently has water rights that allow the City to pump a certain quantity of water from the Green City of Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes g. Riverton Creek Flap Gate Removal Project grant agreements. Page 8 of 10 July 14. 2008 River. This agreement would not diminish the quantity of water that can be pumped nor adversely impact the City's rights. The agreement will be a supplement to those water rights; it will be a conservation measure, a greater use of reclaimed water for the City, and set an example for the public. In response to a question from Councilmember Robertson, Mr. Morrow confirmed King County would pay the entire cost of construction, including design and project management. Maintenance of the line after construction would be the City's responsibility. This project was originally to be funded by utility revenue (per page 81 of the CIP). Continued negotiations with the County resulted in the current agreement. Mr. Morrow explained the County hopes to use examples for reclaimed water in the future, as they have a very aggressive plan to extend the use of reclaimed water that currently gets pumped into the river (and can potentially raise the temperature of the river). COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. Councilmember Hernandez indicated this item was discussed at the Community Affairs and Parks Committee on June 23, 2008. The committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. This project would improve fish access to the creek by removing pipes and flap gates to create an open water connection to the river. Staff is seeking approval to enter into grant agreements with the State of Washington Recreation and Conservation Office and People for Puget Sound for project feasibility and design work funding. In response to a question from Councilmember Robertson, Jim Morrow, Public Works Director, explained the project will cost approximately $500,000 to construct. The design work will require an extensive amount of geotechnical work to remove the gate and set up a large culvert system. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. h. A resolution authorizing application for funding assistance for property acquisition for the Duwamish Gardens project. Councilmember Griffin indicated this item was discussed at the Utilities Committee meeting on July 7, 2008. The committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. The resolution is for Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program funding assistance for the Duwamish Gardens site. Jim Morrow, Public Works Director, explained the granting agency is asking for an official resolution from the Council. An offer has been made to the Carosino family for the property. Due diligence with regard to the property is still required, including environmental studies (due to dioxins spilled on the site) and contact with the State Historic Preservation Office. Purchase of the property will not be completed until due diligence can be performed. There is the potential to lose additional grant money, however, if progress is not being made on the project. COUNCIL CONSENSUS EXISTED TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. i. Cascade Water Alliance Member Water Audit and Audit Acceptance Agreement. Councilmember Griffin indicated this item was discussed at the Utilities Committee meeting on July 7, 2008. The committee members were unanimous in recommending approval. This agreement establishes how the City will interact with Cascade Water Alliance, including specifying the parameters for Tukwila's delivery points and setting the stage for what the City will do in the future for water rights. Due to the efforts of Pat Brodin, Public Works Operations Manager, and the Mayor, the City is better positioned now and in the future for meeting the demand for water. 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 Mayor Haggerton attended a Suburban Cities Association meeting on July 9, 2008, and a Small Cities Meeting prior to that, which included a presentation on green housing. He noted the additional expense of "green" construction is often offset by lower maintenance costs. On July 10, 2008, he attended an open house at Husky International Trucks and another at Water District 125. On July 11, 2008, he attended a Valley Com Administration Board Meeting, as well as the candlelight vigil for Danny Tang. b. City Council Page 9 of 10 July 14. 2008 Councilmember Hernandez attended the Water District 125 open house "customer appreciation day on July 10, 2008, and the candlelight vigil for Danny Tang on July 11, 2008. She noted the Historical Society would not be meeting on July 17; their next meeting is scheduled for August 14, 2008. Councilmember Linder attended the July 9, 2008 Southwest King County Economic Development Initiative (SKCEDI) meeting, at which a draft of a request for a web design for a business attraction program was presented. She explained a lack of funds could result in a proposal for the cities to share costs ($12,000 to 15,000 from each City) in order to retain one staff person. She attended the Sign Code Advisory Committee meeting on July 10, 2008, and noted they are near completion on the residential portion and will be starting review of commercial and animated signs. On Saturday, July 12, 2008, she hosted the Council Coffee Chat at Tukwila Trading Company. One item of discussion was a recommendation to have someone present who speaks Spanish. She noted there has been discussion in the past about producing a condensed version of The Hazelnut in Spanish, and a Spanish translation of some information on the City's website. Councilmember Robertson asked about the status of the search for a new Finance Director. Rhonda Berry, City Administrator, stated the process is on going and being handled by Waldron and Associates, with a possible closing date of July 18 for accepting applications. She had no indication at this time as to the number of applications received, and noted many other cities and private industries are also looking for Finance Directors. Councilmember Griffin attended the Sign Code Committee meeting on July 10, 2008, and the candlelight vigil for Danny Tang on July 11, 2008. She received an e -mail saying the people in Tukwila are the definition of "community." She reminded everyone of the C.A.S.T.T. event on July 18 and 19, and said one of the performances speaks to the idea of Tukwila's "community." Councilmember Hougardy attended the Highway 99 Action Committee meeting on July 8, 2008, and the Southwest King County Chamber of Commerce luncheon on July 11, 2008. Councilmember Quinn had no report. Council President Duffie asked about the status of the Northfield Car Wash. Mayor Haggerton confirmed the settlement states they may remain open until mid September, and must vacate the space in October. Mr. Duffie also asked Council about interest in a joint meeting with SeaTac City Council. The majority of the Council felt there were currently too many other issues already being addressed. Mr. Duffle stated the funeral for Danny Tang will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2008, at 3:00 pm at Bonney Watson, Washington Memorial Park, and thanked the police officers and others who attended the candlelight vigil. Council President Duffie then asked for a volunteer to serve on the "Tukwila Treasures" review committee. Councilmember Hernandez stated the Community Affairs and Parks Committee Chair has traditionally handled this task, and she volunteered. c. Staff Rhonda Berry, City Administrator, stated mediation was held today with the Candace Green estate, the woman who had the accident at the pool. A memorandum for settlement has been prepared, and the formal agreement will come to Council for approval. City of Tukwila City Council Committee of the Whole Minutes d. City Attorney The City Attorney's presence is not required at Committee of the Whole meetings. e. Intergovernmental Kimberly Matej, Council Analyst, asked for consensus to change the resolution regarding the "Tukwila Treasures" selection to reflect the position would be filled by the Community Affairs and Parks Committee Chair. Consensus was to make the revision. MISCELLANEOUS Councilmember Hernandez noted that the Equity Diversity Commission awarded scholarships to several Foster High school students, who were to give service back to their community in return. She suggested those students may be able to provide translation services and could be contacted through Leonard Luna at Foster High School. ADJOURNMENT 9:48 pm COUNCIL PRESIDENT DUFFIE DECLARED THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING ADJOURNED. f:affie\Council P Apt .it L/ lam(, 1 6't.e1 /l Barbara Saxton, Acting Deputy City Clerk Page 10 of 10 July 14.2008