HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008-12-01 Regular MinutesCITY OFFICIALS
AMEND AGENDA
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
CITIZEN COMMENTS
There were no citizen comments.
TUKWILA CITY COUNCIL
December 1, 2008 7:00 p.m.
Council Chambers City Hall
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
CALL TO ORDER /PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Jim Haggerton called the Tukwila City Council meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. and led the audience
in the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
Christy O'Flaherty, City Clerk, called the roll of the Council. Present were Councilmembers Joe Duffie,
Joan Hernandez, Pam Linder, Dennis Robertson, Verna Griffin, Kathy Hougardy, De'Sean Quinn.
Jim Haggerton, Mayor; Rhonda Berry, City Administrator; Shelley Kerslake, City Attorney; Shawn
Hunstock, Finance Director; Jim Morrow, Public Works Director; Gail Labanara, Public Works Analyst;
Jack Pace, Community Development Director; Bruce Fletcher, Parks and Recreation Director; David
Haynes, Police Chief; Nick Olivas, Fire Chief; Lisa Verner, Project Manager; Mary Miotke, Information
Technology Director; Kimberly Matej, Council Analyst; Christy O'Flaherty, City Clerk.
MOVED BY DUFFIE, SECONDED BY LINDER TO AMEND THE AGENDA TO MOVE NEW BUSINESS
ITEM 6A (LABOR AGREEMENT) TO BE CONSIDERED AFTER ITEM 5D. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
Mayor Haggerton invited David Haynes, Police Chief, to be acknowledged, along with the Police
Department, the Fire Department, and Public Safety employees for their responses to emergencies. He
thanked them for their diligent work and stated that the City of Tukwila owes them a debt of gratitude.
Chief Haynes thanked Mayor Haggerton for his comments and stated he was very grateful to work with a
highly professional police department. He has confidence in his department and said that they did an
exceptional job in this particular instance. He publicly thanked them for all the fine work that they did and
to let them know that it was very much appreciated. Mayor Haggerton encouraged Councilmembers to
stop by the Police department and give them their personal thanks.
Introduction of David Stuckle, Project Inspector, Public Works
Jim Morrow, Public Works Director, came forward and introduced David Stuckle, Project Inspector, who
was born and raised in Lynnwood, Washington. He studied engineering at Shoreline Community College
and Seattle University. His previous experience includes working as a geotechnical engineer for four
years, civil engineering for one year at Obashi Corporation, and as a structural engineer for Berger Abam
Company. Mr. Morrow also stated that, although Mr. Stuckle has only been with the City of Tukwila for a
short period of time, his broad range of experience is evident in his inspections of the utilities, road
improvements, and everything that must be done for the city.
Mr. Stuckle stated that he's had nothing but good experiences so far, has met good people, and is looking
forward to the challenge. It's interesting and there's a lot of work going on.
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Citv Council Reaular Meetina Minutes December 1. 2008
CONSENT AGENDA
a. Approval of Minutes: 11/17/08 (Regular)
b. Approval of Vouchers #343236- #343510 in the amount of $1,227,228.37.
c. Accept turnover of street improvements and storm drainage system as part of the Charter Homes, Inc./
Riverton Lane Development. (value of transferred assets is $63,246.)
MOVED BY DUFFIE, SECONDED BY HERNANDEZ TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS
SUBMITTED. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
a. An ordinance vacating property located within the City, dedicated for street purposes,
generally described as 35 Avenue South, running southwesterly from Southcenter Boulevard for
approximately 354 feet.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON,
VACATING CERTAIN PROPERTY LOCATED WITHIN THE CITY, DEDICATED FOR STREET
PURPOSES, GENERALLY DESCRIBED AS 35 AVENUE SOUTH, RUNNING
SOUTHWESTERLY FROM SOUTHCENTER BOULEVARD (SOUTH 154 STREET) FOR
APPROXIMATELY 354 FEET, INCLUDING THE PARTIAL CUL -DE -SAC BULB; AMENDING
THE OFFICIAL STREET MAP OF THE CITY; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND
ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
MOVED BY LINDER, SECONDED BY DUFFIE THAT THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE BE READ BY
TITLE ONLY. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
Christy O'Flaherty, City Clerk, read the proposed ordinance by title only.
MOVED BY LINDER, SECONDED BY DUFFIE THAT THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE BE ADOPTED
AS READ. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0 TO ADOPT ORDINANCE NUMBER 2214.
b. Department of Community Development fee increases.
1. An ordinance amending Ordinance No. 2189, "Schedule of Permit Fees," to adopt new permit
fee schedules for building, mechanical, plumbing, and fuel -gas piping permits.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON,
AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 2189, AS CODIFIED AT TUKWILA MUNICIPAL CODE
CHAPTER 16.04, SECTION 16.04.250, "SCHEDULE OF PERMIT FEES," TO ADOPT NEW
PERMIT FEE SCHEDULES FOR BUILDING, MECHANICAL, PLUMBING, AND FUEL -GAS
PIPING PERMITS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE.
MOVED BY HERNANDEZ, SECONDED BY LINDER THAT THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE BE READ
BY TITLE ONLY. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
Christy O'Flaherty, City Clerk, read the proposed ordinance by title only.
MOVED BY HERNANDEZ, SECONDED BY DUFFIE THAT THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE BE
ADOPTED AS READ. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0 TO ADOPT ORDINANCE NUMBER 2215.
2. A resolution adopting a land use fee schedule.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON,
ADOPTING A LAND USE FEE SCHEDULE, AND REPEALING RESOLUTION NO. 1654.
MOVED BY HERNANDEZ, SECONDED BY DUFFIE THAT THE PROPOSED RESOLUTION BE READ
BY TITLE ONLY. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
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City Council Regular Meetina Minutes December 1. 2008
Christy O'Flaherty, City Clerk, read the proposed resolution by title only.
MOVED BY HERNANDEZ, SECONDED BY DUFFIE THAT THE PROPOSED RESOLUTION BE
ADOPTED AS READ. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0 TO ADOPT RESOLUTION NUMBER 1672.
c. Authorize the Mayor to enter into an Interlocal Agreement to provide tourism and marketing
services to the City of Des Moines. (Payment to the City is 100% of Des Moines lodging tax
collected per year.)
MOVED BY ROBERTSON, SECONDED BY LINDER TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO
AN INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT TO PROVIDE TOURISM AND MARKETING SERVICES TO THE CITY
OF DES MOINES (Payment to the City is 100% of Des Moines lodging tax collected per year).
MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
d. A resolution updating and clarifying the non represented employees' compensation and
adopting the non represented salary schedule and benefits summary, effective January 1, 2009.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON,
UPDATING AND CLARIFYING THE NON REPRESENTED EMPLOYEES' COMPENSATION
AND ADOPTING THE NON REPRESENTED SALARY SCHEDULE AND BENEFITS
SUMMARY, EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2009.
MOVED BY ROBERTSON, SECONDED BY LINDER THAT THE PROPOSED RESOLUTION BE READ
BY TITLE ONLY. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
Christy O'Flaherty, City Clerk, read the proposed resolution by title only.
MOVED BY ROBERTSON, SECONDED BY DUFFIE THAT THE PROPOSED RESOLUTION BE
ADOPTED AS READ. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0 TO ADOPT RESOLUTION NUMBER 1673.
AGENDA AMENDMENT Per page 1 New Business Item 6A discussed at this time
a. Authorize the Mayor to sign the labor agreement between the City of Tukwila and the United
Steelworkers of America (Tukwila Police Non Commissioned employees) effective January 1, 2009
through December 31, 2012.
MOVED BY ROBERTSON, SECONDED BY HERNANDEZ TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO SIGN
THE LABOR AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF TUKWILA AND THE UNITED STEELWORKERS
OF AMERICA (TUKWILA POLICE NON COMMISSIONED EMPLOYEES) EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1,
2009 THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2012. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
e. An ordinance relating to contracting indebtedness, providing for the issuance of $6,180,000 par
value of Limited Tax General Obligation Refunding Bonds, 2008, to provide funds to pay the cost
of refunding a portion of the City's outstanding Limited Tax General Obligation Bonds from 1999.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON,
RELATING TO CONTRACTING INDEBTEDNESS, PROVIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE OF
$6,180,000 PAR VALUE OF LIMITED TAX GENERAL OBLIGATION REFUNDING BONDS, 2008,
OF THE CITY FOR GENERAL CITY PURPOSES TO PROVIDE FUNDS WITH WHICH TO PAY
THE COST OF ADVANCE REFUNDING A PORTION OF THE CITY'S OUTSTANDING LIMITED
TAX GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS, 1999, AND PAYING THE ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS OF
SUCH REFUNDING AND THE COSTS OF ISSUANCE AND SALE OF SUCH BONDS; FIXING
THE DATE, FORM, MATURITIES, INTEREST RATES, TERMS AND COVENANTS OF THE
BONDS; ESTABLISHING A BOND FUND; PROVIDING FOR AND AUTHORIZING THE
PURCHASE OF CERTAIN OBLIGATIONS OUT OF THE PROCEEDS OF THE SALE OF THE
BONDS HEREIN AUTHORIZED AND FOR THE USE AND APPLICATION OF THE MONEY
DERIVED FROM THOSE INVESTMENTS; AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF AN
AGREEMENT WITH U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF SEATTLE, WASHINGTON, AS
REFUNDING TRUSTEE; PROVIDING FOR THE CALL, PAYMENT AND REDEMPTION OF THE
OUTSTANDING BONDS TO BE REFUNDED; PROVIDING FOR THE PURCHASE OF BOND
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Citv Council Regular Meetina Minutes December 1. 2008
INSURANCE; AND APPROVING THE SALE AND PROVIDING FOR THE DELIVERY OF THE
BONDS TO SEATTLE NORTHWEST SECURITIES CORPORATION OF SEATTLE,
WASHINGTON; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE.
MOVED BY DUFFIE, SECONDED BY HERNANDEZ THAT THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE BE READ
BY TITLE ONLY. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
Christy O'Flaherty, City Clerk, read the proposed ordinance by title only.
MOVED BY ROBERTSON, SECONDED BY DUFFIE THAT THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE BE
ADOPTED AS READ.*
Shawn Hunstock, Finance Director, stated that Lindsay Sovde from Seattle Northwest Securities was
present, as well as Hugh Spitzer from Foster Pepper, who acted as bond counsel for this bond offering.
Ms. Sovde spoke regarding the bond offering and results of the bond sale. The markets have been in
great turmoil, but they were very excited to have the City of Tukwila's bonds so well received. They were
able to price $6,180,000 of limited tax general obligation bonds, representing a savings to the City of
almost $260,000, which goes directly to the General Fund savings. The maturity structure of the bonds
was not substantially altered. The maturities will remain at 2009 to 2019, but there is a slight change in
the structure. The revised savings are $39,000 representing a decrease of $21,000. Ms. Sovde explained
that there was an investor who was interested in purchasing $500,000 worth of bonds in 2013, so the
maturity structure needed to be changed to accommodate that request. In 2013, the City will have
savings of almost $97,000.
Ms. Sovde further noted that Moody's affirmed the City's A -1 credit rating. Of particular note, is the fact
that the City has significant reserves available to offset economically sensitive revenues due to the fact
that the sales tax base is a significant portion of General Fund revenues. Moody's further appreciates that
the City of Tukwila recognizes that they need to have reserves in the event of a prolonged decrease in
sales tax revenues. They also like the fact that the City has very manageable debt levels.
Councilmember Linder questioned how much the City could borrow in the future for jail or fire facilities
without adversely affecting the City's's low debt level capacity. Lindsay Sovde explained that rating
agencies look at the City's debt relative to assessed value. Right now, that is .47 Rating agencies start
getting concerned at a number much higher than that, in the area of 5 By state law, the City cannot
issue more than 1.5 of assessed value. Ideally, the City would not get into a situation where it has used
all of its non -voted debt capacity because doing so would leave the City without a fallback position in the
case of an emergency. A hard number couldn't be given, but there's a lot of flexibility based upon where
the debt levels are now.
In the municipal market, investors are worried that people will stop paying property taxes, as a result of
home foreclosures, as well as a sales tax decline. The City of Tukwila has issued ten -year bonds with an
interest rate of 4% which is great.
Councilmember Quinn asked what Ms. Sovde would recommend as a balance between the property tax
amount versus the amount the City is borrowing. He further stated that the City is landlocked and not
growing in property taxes. Ms. Sovde responded that it's difficult to be creative since state law guides
what access to revenue is. Utility fees, taxes on enterprise funds, and B &0 taxes have become more
common. Several local governments have gone to voters for levy lid lifts and user fees.
Hugh Spitzer with Foster Pepper, Bond Counsel for the City of Tukwila, stated that the final version of the
bond revisions basically puts in specific amounts in each maturity, the interest rates, and the redemption
provisions. The bonds are Double A 2 rated, and the ordinance allows the mayor to work out the details,
which Mr. Spitzer will be involved in negotiating with the bond insurance company.
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City Council Regular Meetina Minutes December 1. 2008
Councilmember Griffin questioned page two of the memo regarding savings of $33,000 on 06/01/09,
which jumps up and down between negative and positive amounts. Shawn Hunstock responded that the
schedule Councilmember Griffin was referring to compares the old debt service with the new debt service.
Some of the numbers have changed. For instance, on 12/01/09, the prior debt service was $172,000 and
the new debt service is $182,000, so that accounts for the negative difference there. The overall savings
for the year is $21,117.
Mayor Haggerton expressed gratitude to the Finance Director for his efforts in finding ways to generate
revenue and reduce costs. Overall, the City will save approximately $318,000 over the life of the bonds.
*MOTION CARRIED 7 -0 TO ADOPT ORDINANCE NUMBER 2216.
f. Authorize the acquisition of an Eden Financial Systems site license in the amount of $32,700.
MOVED BY ROBERTSON, SECONDED BY LINDER TO AUTHORIZE THE ACQUISITION OF AN
EDEN FINANCIAL SYSTEMS SITE LICENSE IN THE AMOUNT OF $32,700.00.
MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
g. Authorize the Mayor to sign the Authorization for Transfer of Funds for the final 2008 budget
amendment to reallocate unspent appropriations to budgets with potential deficits.
MOVED BY ROBERTSON, SECONDED BY LINDER TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO SIGN THE
AUTHORIZATION FOR TRANSFER OF FUNDS FOR THE FINAL 2008 BUDGET AMENDMENT TO
REALLOCATE UNSPENT APPROPRIATIONS TO BUDGETS WITH POTENTIAL DEFICITS.
MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
h. An ordinance adopting the 2008 Fire Master Plan with the inclusion of the Mayor's response
specifying phased implementation; and establishing level -of- service goals for fire services.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON,
ADOPTING THE 2008 FIRE MASTER PLAN WITH THE INCLUSION OF THE MAYOR'S
RESPONSE SPECIFYING PHASED IMPLEMENTATION; ESTABLISHING LEVEL -OF-
SERVICE GOALS FOR FIRE SERVICES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND
ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
MOVED BY ROBERTSON, SECONDED BY DUFFIE THAT THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE BE READ
BY TITLE ONLY. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
Christy O'Flaherty, City Clerk, read the proposed ordinance by title only.
Councilmember Robertson would like to move this item forward to the meeting of December 15, 2008, as
the impact fees were still being discussed in the Finance and Safety Committee and the Community
Affairs and Parks Committee. He feels it would be inappropriate for the council to pass this ordinance at
this time.
He conveyed there were other issues regarding the ordinance that could be discussed at this meeting
and appropriate amendments made to Exhibit B before the December 15, 2008 meeting.
Councilmember Robertson stated that the Mayor's recommendation was that the City hire two this year.
It's complicated because, if you hire less than the full complement, you have to guess which of the three
shifts are going to have firefighters absent due to military duty, illness, or other reasons. A statistical
analysis showed that it would be very difficult with just hiring one or two more, to gain a benefit.
Councilmember Robertson stated that he has previously mentioned hiring extra firefighters so the City
would use the Aid Car and stop using the ladder truck.
Councilmember Linder concurred and stated she was glad that the Mayor recommended staying with two
because, if a third was added, the City would have to continue taking those positions out of the General
Fund. The impact fees could not replace that funding. Councilmember Robertson concurred.
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Councilmember Hernandez referred to Addendum #1 of the October 13th packet and inquired whether
Exhibit A was intended to be part of the Fire Master Plan. Lisa Verner, Project Manager, stated the intent
is that it is an integral part of the Fire Master Plan and, as such, it is intended to be adopted when the
councilmembers adopt the Fire Master Plan itself. It's not intended to be addendum to the ordinance
itself.
Councilmember Linder suggested that it would be clearer if those pages were pulled out so that
Councilmembers would have everything right there when they're passing the ordinance.
Councilmember Griffin asked that the Fire analysis referred to by Councilmember Robertson be provided
to all Councilmembers.
Mayor Haggerton asked the Fire Chief to address questions.
Councilmember Robertson asked the Fire Chief to explain what benefit would be obtained by not driving
the ladder truck. Nick Olivas, Fire Chief, explained they took the 2007 data and added one person to each
shift to determine what kind of difference it would make. The results, from memory, were that the Aid Car
was in service approximately 16% of the time and the ladder 84% of the time. Adding one firefighter to
each shift brought the Aid Car into service about 48% of the time. They tried different scenarios of adding
two or three firefighters, but didn't feel they could come up with reliable data by arbitrarily picking two
shifts out of the three. They could extrapolate that adding one person to 2 shifts would bring the Aid Car
into service 30% to 40% of the time. He reiterated that hiring decisions made in this manner would be
based on unreliable data. Chief Olivas felt it was better to follow the Mayor's recommendation for staffing
next year, assuming that the budget supports it.
Councilmember Robertson clarified that the footnote on page 73 states that these items will be added to
the budget as revenue becomes available. There isn't necessarily a commitment, at this point, to add
firefighters. Councilmember Robertson, Fire Chief Olivas, and Mayor Haggerton are in agreement on this
issue.
Councilmember Hougardy asked if page 73 stated that adding extra personnel would be dependent on
funding. Councilmember Hougardy further wanted to clarify that, right now, funding requires a levy lift.
The Mayor stated that was an option.
Councilmember Quinn stated that fully staffing the Aid Car will not result in much cost savings. This
decision does allow the City to keep its options open for future expenditures. Chief Olivas stated that one
extra person per shift would save close to 200 shifts of overtime per year. There would be a balancing out
of hiring versus overtime.
Councilmember Quinn further wanted to clarify that there is no tangible data available to make decisions
as to when to have the Aid Car available. Fire Chief Olivas stated that there actually is some data in the
Fire Master Plan. The difficulty is that, with the way the contract is currently structured, they're extremely
limited as to what they can do in creating alternative shifts. Councilmember Quinn questioned the ability
to predict future calls. Fire Chief Olivas said they will take a look at where the greatest need is at the time
should this be implemented next year. If the effect is that the Aid Car is not in service more often, they will
reduce overtime. People will be placed where they will make the most impact.
Councilmember Linder asked if the Councilmembers would be receiving the documentation that Chief
Olivas had worked out. Chief Olivas responded that he will provide that to Rhonda Berry, City
Administrator, and she will make the determination as to whether its appropriate for distribution in its
present form.
Mayor Haggerton stated the Fire Master Plan is a good tool to evaluate. Included in the plan are charts
and graphs about the Aid Car usage. It appears that the Aid Car is needed more than the fire engines.
The City needs to concentrate on getting the Aid Car into service as fast as they can. Due to monetary
constraints, this will have to be done gradually.
MOVED BY ROBERTSON, SECONDED BY LINDER TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE COMMITTEE
OF THE WHOLE MEETING ON DECEMBER 8, 2008. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
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City Council Reaular Meetina Minutes December 1. 2008
i. An ordinance amending the Capital Facilities Element of the City's Comprehensive Plan to add
"Fire" to the list of uses funded by the General Fund, to reference and incorporate the 2008 Fire
and Parks Master Plans, and to add Levels of Service for Fire and Parks services.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON,
AMENDING THE CAPITAL FACILITIES ELEMENT OF THE CITY'S COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
TO ADD "FIRE" TO THE LIST OF USES FUNDED BY THE GENERAL FUND, TO REFERENCE
AND INCORPORATE BY REFERENCE THE 2008 FIRE MASTER PLAN AND THE 2008
PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE PLAN, AND TO ADD LEVELS OF SERVICE FOR
FIRE AND PARKS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE
DATE.
MOVED BY ROBERTSON, SECONDED BY DUFFIE THAT THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE BE READ
BY TITLE ONLY. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
Christy O'Flaherty, City Clerk, read the proposed ordinance by title only.
Councilmember Robertson stated that this item references the previously discussed Fire Master Plan
and, therefore, it is inappropriate to move to put the ordinance into adoption until the Fire Master Plan
impact fee issues are settled.
MOVED BY HERNANDEZ, SECONDED BY LINDER TO FORWARD THIS ITEM TO THE REGULAR
MEETING OF DECEMBER 15, 2008. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
NEW BUSINESS
a. Item A was discussed after Unfinished Business Item 5d above, per agenda amendment.
b. Proposed Budget /Capital Improvement Program:
1. An ordinance adopting the annual budget for the 2009 -2010 biennium.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON,
ADOPTING THE ANNUAL BUDGET OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA FOR THE 2009 -2010
BIENNIUM; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
MOVED BY ROBERTSON, SECONDED BY DUFFIE THAT THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE BE READ
BY TITLE ONLY. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
Christy O'Flaherty, City Clerk, read the proposed ordinance by title only.
Councilmember Robertson stated that this item was in Finance and Safety. However, there is some new
material that doesn't concern the park impact fees. The park impact fee ordinance will not be settled for at
least another week. He suggested that this item also be moved to the December 15th meeting. He asked
the Finance Director for his assistance in providing information on what the change will be in the
Community Schools Collaboration (CSC) budget because they had already agreed by consensus to
change that from $75,000 per year to $130,000 per year with changes in staff in -kind services. Human
services increase of $50,000 per year requires changes to the budget and a funding source needs to be
found.
Shawn Hunstock, Finance Director, stated the second page of the memo is an updated version of what
was discussed last week at the Committee of the Whole meeting. This amount has been updated to
reflect the new bond refunding, and the savings has been reduced from $60,000 to $39,000. He has
reprogrammed this money into the Human Services budget.
Councilmember Robertson asked for a recommendation from the Administration on where they could find
$11,000. They Mayor stated that they will have that information.
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Councilmember Robertson directed the Council to page 92, the Parks and Recreation 301 Fund. He
stated that this information was first presented in the Committee of the Whole last week and they didn't
get to it.
Shawn Hunstock, Finance Director, stated that this item does not reflect the current discussion on Fire
and Park Impact Fees. In putting these numbers together, the Finance Committee made a presumption
that there would be an 80/20 split of the cost. There are many options on what the split will actually be
since the project list has changed since this was originally developed, such as the Southgate Park
improvements which were pulled from the latest version.
Councilmember Robertson said there are, potentially, other changes if the two committees discuss the
projects and impact fees. He feels this item should come back to the Committee of the Whole next week.
Councilmember Quinn stated that his committee went over this list very thoroughly.
Councilmember Robertson referred to the comment on page 93, which states the project is on Park
Impact Fees and that the goal is to start the project by 2014. Yet, it shows $100,000 being spent in 2009.
He's assuming that figure is for the Codiga Boat Launch. He suggested that comment needs to be
updated.
Councilmember Robertson questioned the significant increase in total cost for the park shown on page
95. It went from several hundred thousand to $2.5 million. Bruce Fletcher, Parks and Recreation Director,
explained that the cost of purchasing three acres in the Ryan Hill neighborhood, plus development costs,
is significant. There was $300,000 in the budget this year. Luckily, property was found for $150,000
without having a grant match. These numbers reflect real dollars in the future.
Councilmember Robertson questioned Attachment A on page 101 of the packet, which is a cash flow
statement. He pointed out that the subtotal represents revenues minus any capital expenditures. In 2009,
it's $2.2 million, goes up slightly in 2010, and then progressively goes down into the negative in ensuing
years. Councilmember Robertson stated that the City cannot operate without spending money on capital.
His concern is that, even if the City isn't hit badly by what's happening in the economy, this is still not
acceptable. New revenue sources must be found or expenses will have to be cut.
Shawn Hunstock, Finance Director, stated that in 2009 -2010 revenues are directly from the two -year
proposed budget that's under consideration, as well as the Operations and Maintenance. Attachment C,
the capital items, come straight from the CIP. The numbers are dependent upon the project cost and the
timing implementation of the project. Attachment C reflects the City's share of those project costs. These
aren't the total costs of the projects. These are the City's costs for the projects, and are based on
repayment through bond offerings and sales tax revenue. The accumulated total is not negative primarily
due to the beginning fund balance from 2008, which essentially reflects a gradual reduction down to just
over $3 million. He further pointed out that in comparing this to previous CIP Attachment A's over the last
six years, all but one of those CIP Attachment A's reflected $3 million to $4 million ending fund balance.
With this Attachment A, they're projecting to end 2008 with $32 million. This is a good guide to plan for
finances and, especially, revenue sources. It's not necessarily a set -in -stone reflection of what the impact
will be in the future beyond the two -year period. A lot of assumptions are built into this. A modest increase
in sales tax each year is projected, although they really have no idea where that will go after this year. It's
suspected that any losses incurred this year will be mitigated through the sales tax, but that's subject to
annual appropriation. At this point, Mr. Hunstock stated that he feels any losses will be mitigated by the
state, but there is a risk that it won't be appropriated by the state.
Councilmember Linder asked for clarification on whether, looking back over the past seven years, the City
is in the same position that they have been and not getting progressively worse. Mr. Hunstock stated that
the City is actually getting progressively better. The ending fund balance each year, generally,
accumulates throughout that seven -year time period.
Mayor Haggerton agreed with Mr. Hunstock. These same concerns have been expressed every year.
Those numbers have been diminishing over that five or six -year time span, but change as you get closer
to the end of the time span. It points out the importance of looking at new revenue sources and keeping
economic development moving forward.
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Councilmember Quinn stated that the City is not in this alone. He stressed that having reserves, sales tax
revenues, and property taxes are all very important. Additionally, the City needs to thoroughly investigate
potential opportunities that are on the table. A cost benefit analysis with accurate, up -to -date, and creative
data is essential when faced with hard decisions.
Shawn Hunstock, Finance Director, commented that Lindsay Sovde mentioned one of the reasons why
the City was successful in marketing the bonds was because of the accumulated reserves. Attachment A
shows a real possibility that those reserves could dwindle over time. He recommended that the City have
a reserve policy for the CIP and the operating budget in terms of how much money is on hand in the
general fund.
Councilmember Linder referenced the Walk and Roll Plan. There is $260,000 in the Walk and Roll plan
for 2009 and $200,000 for 2010. The committee is very excited to pursue this plan, but there is a missing
link. The question is how long of a sidewalk the $260,000 a year will produce. The committee's concern
was that it might take five years to accumulate the funds required to do a sidewalk from 144th to 150th on
Macadam. Figures are supposed to be available at the Transportation meeting on December 9th, but
they're concerned that there isn't enough money to accomplish much of anything. The figure may need to
be adjusted now and not wait for five years. It's a big issue and important for everyone in the City.
MOVED BY ROBERTSON, SECONDED BY DUFFIE TO FORWARD THIE BUDGET ORDINANCE AND
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN (CIP) RESOLUTION (Item 2 below) TO THE COMMITTEE OF THE
WHOLE MEETING ON DECEMBER 8, 2008. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
2. A resolution adopting the 2009 -2014 Financial Planning Model and the Capital Improvement
Program.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON,
ADOPTING THE 2009 -2014 FINANCIAL PLANNING MODEL AND THE CAPITAL
IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM FOR GENERAL GOVERNMENT AND THE CITY'S ENTERPRISE
FUNDS.
This item (Resolution adopting the 2009 -2019 CIP) was forwarded to the December 8, 2008 Committee
of the Whole meeting per the motion above.
c. Adoption of the 2009 -2010 goals of the Tukwila City Council.
Councilmember Hernandez asked that the Council begin a discussion based on information obtained at a
Suburban Cities Dinner Association meeting. In the City of Snoqualmie, they developed a Citizens'
Academy, a free seven -week course for citizens to get a first -hand look at how government works. The
sessions were led by City officials and department heads. It gave the citizens an idea of where revenues
come from and where property taxes go. Councilmember Hernandez thought this was something that
would benefit the citizens and the City.
Councilmember Quinn requested a communication agreement that sets in motion a communication plan
as it relates to communications articulated at Council meetings and /or Town Halls be put on the goals list.
These goals would be achieved with collaboration between the Council Analyst, the City Clerk, and the
Administration. The process is directly related to testimony and comments made at Council meetings.
He'd like to ensure that the Council is prepared for follow -ups at subsequent meetings.
Councilmember Hernandez stated that it relates to Goal #7 that's been on the list for two years regarding
a tracking process for resolution of citizens' concerns. She suggested blending these two goals.
Councilmember Quinn stated he felt it was important to separate the two because its more work to track
a concern when someone calls. As it relates to concerns raised in front of the Council, regardless of the
process it takes to create a tracking system, it's important that the Council is in a position to know what
happened prior to the next meeting.
Councilmember Hernandez agreed and stated that was the intention when she suggested this two years
ago.
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City Council Reaular Meeting Minutes December 1. 2008
Kimberly Matej, Council Analyst, will blend Goal #7 and Councilmember Quinn's comments together. She
further suggested that the Council discuss and add whatever goals are to be added to the list.
Councilmember Hougardy stated that it was her understanding that the goals would be put on the list
tonight and, then, discussed at the retreat. Kimberly Matej replied that the original plan was to discuss the
goals last week and come to a consensus of what the goals would be for 2009 -2010. Councilmember
Hougardy stated that her recollection was that many of the goals from last year were ongoing. She asked
if they were going to go back and discuss last year's goals because she felt some of them should be
moved forward.
Kimberly Matej, Council Analyst, replied affirmatively and referred the Councilmembers to page 116.
These are the goals that were submitted by Councilmembers for 2009 -2010. Other goals can be added
and, after everyone's had an opportunity to add something to it, the Council can go back and discuss the
suggestions.
Councilmember Griffin suggested for consideration of the feasibility of implementation of televised City
Council meetings. The residents are spread out and some are unable to attend meetings. This would add
another avenue to reach out to the community. Councilmember Hougardy commented that Channel 21
has been added in the last couple of years, giving them a venue for televising Council meetings.
Councilmember Linder stated that she had a goal that has already been discussed with the Council
Analyst and is a work -in- progress regarding a way for the Council to become more familiar with the City;
particularly, the areas the Councilmembers don't live in. Perhaps, the City could be divided into seven or
eight neighborhoods, and, the Councilmember assigned to that neighborhood would go to any community
meetings that they had, drive around the streets, and become familiar with the area. The process would
be repeated until all Councilmembers had visited each neighborhood.
Kimberly Matej, Council Analyst, requested a review of additions to the goals as listed on page 116 of the
packet in order to reach a consensus.
Councilmember Hernandez stated she would like to carryover 2008 goals to 2009, if they haven't been
accomplished, and that the technology goal could be adjusted or eliminated because it's been partly
accomplished.
Ms. Matej recommended removing #8 and replacing it with new wording for televising of meetings.
Councilmember Linder stated that #7 could also be eliminated and replaced with Councilmember Quinn's
new version. Councilmember Quinn stated that he thinks it's important to stipulate that the tracking
system would be used in those cases requiring a short response. Councilmember Quinn stated that his
original intent was specifically aimed at Council and /or Town Hall meetings. He feels there is an
opportunity for legal input, and that specific instances where citizens testify before the committee are
important to track.
Rhonda Berry, City Administrator, responded to Councilmember Quinn by saying it depends on the
situation. She stated they will try their best and that it's probably doable. She further stated that what the
Council considers resolution and what the citizen considers resolution may be two different things. The
documentation would be the resolution from the City's end. As far as Town Meetings, Ms. Berry envisions
a Community Schools Collaboration (CSC) meeting where a question may come up, and there would not
be any staff there to track that question. Those meetings, where City staff aren't typically present, will be
the more challenging ones.
Councilmember Quinn replied that he was speaking specifically to those meetings sponsored by the
Council.
Kimberly Matej, Council Analyst, asked that the Council return to page 116 and discuss the last three
bulleted goals on the list that were submitted prior to the deadline.
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Citv Council Reaular Meetina Minutes December 1. 2008
In referring to bullet goal #1, Councilmember Hernandez stated that they cannot draft and complete the
Council Standard Operating Procedures, but they can review and update it. Kimberly Matej, Council
Analyst, stated that it's not completed yet. She has a draft. She suggested changing it to "improve and
implement" and, then, "review and update" on a regular basis. The Councilmembers agreed.
Councilmember Linder stated she would re -word item #3 to say they would review the status of human
services in King County and Tukwila, and the cost of living, in the second year of a biennial budget. It
would involve making conscious decisions. She further stated that those other areas of City business did
not fall behind by $100,000 of a very small budget. That's 33% of the Human Services budget that they
did not get because it was not carefully reviewed. How the community has changed over the years needs
to be looked at.
Councilmember Quinn stated that he wanted to add another goal, which is continuing to increase activity
in partnering with regional, local, and state efforts. It's important to have that as a stated goal. Eventually,
the City might have to increase its share and it would encourage more partnership to balance the amount
of commitment it will take to support these things.
In summary, Kimberly Matej, Council Analyst, stated that there is a consensus to continue with the first
four goals listed on page 115 and to eliminate goals #5, #6, #7, and #8. Goal #7 will be re- worded to
express the council's desire to have a uniform response to documented citizen comments. #8 would be
changed completely to outline the study and feasibility of televising council meetings. On page 116, the
last bullet will be re- worded and Councilmember Quinn's statement regarding partnerships will be added.
Councilmember Linder asked if dividing the City into seven sections would be included. It was agreed that
this would be added as a separate goal from goals #1 and #2. Ms. Matej also noted that the Citizens'
Academy would also be added.
REPORTS
a. Mayor
Mayor Haggerton reported on the schedule for the remainder of the year. He felt that there were really
good discussions tonight on the sequence of events for impact fees and budgets. Remarkable progress
was made to the point of a final draft on the Tukwila South Development agreement. There are just a
couple of modifications prior to the small group briefings. He's hoping to have a public hearing at the
December 15 Council Meeting on the Tukwila South Development Agreement. A possible extra meeting
for deliberation is scheduled for December 18. It's possible that meetings will extend into January. He'd
like to keep this moving forward because funds from the state and federal government could be in
jeopardy if delayed too long.
A discussion ensued as to when the public hearings will be held. It was decided that small briefings would
be held on December 10 and 11. Discussion and deliberation would be held at the January 5 meeting.
The public hearing on the Tukwila South Development agreement will be held on January 12, 2009, and
the public hearing on the development regulations will be conducted on January 20, 2009
Mayor Haggerton stated that, as long as the City is working in the right direction, January is not a
problem.
b. City Council
Councilmember Robertson inquired regarding the status of the rental housing ordinance. Shelley
Kerslake, City Attorney, indicated other matters of City business have taken priority, and this issue will be
coming forward in the next few weeks.
c. Staff
There was no report.
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City Council Reaular Meetina Minutes December 1. 2008
d. City Attorney
There was no report.
e. Intergovernmental
Kimberly Matej, Council Analyst, will be attending Association of Washington Cities (AWC) Open
Government Training in Lakewood tomorrow and will be on vacation next week. The entire City Council
will be attending the National League of Cities (NLC) Conference in Washington, D.C. in March 2009.
ADJOURNMENT
9:52 p.m. MOVED BY DUFFIE, SECONDED BY LINDER THAT THE TUKWILA CITY COUNCIL
MEETING BE ADJOURNED. MOTION CARRIED 7 -0.
Jim la gerton, May
7
Minutes prepared by Lady of Letters, Inc,
Reviewed by Christy O'Flaherty, City Clerk
APPROVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL: 1/5/2009