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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 03/23/2000 4162 City Council Special Meeting in Joint Session with the Clallam County Commissioners and the Commissioners of the Port of Port Angeles Port Angeles, Washington March 23, 2000 CALL TO ORDER - Mayor Doyle called the special meeting of the Port Angeles City Council to order at SPECIAL MEETING: 4:05 p.m. County Commissioner Doherty also called the special meeting of the Clallam County Commissioners to order, and Port Commissioner Waud called the special meeting of the Commissioners of the Port of Port Angeles to order. ROLL CALL: Members Present: Mayor Doyle, Councilmembers Campbell, Erickson, Wiggins, and Williams. Members ~4bsent: Councilmembers Hulett and McKeown. Staff Present: Manager Quinn, Attorney Knutson, Clerk Upton, G. Cutler, and G. Kenworthy. County Commissioners Present: Commissioners Boardman, Doherty, and Tharinger. County Staff Present: J. Rumpeltes, B. Martin, and S. Hauff. Port Commissioners Present: Commissioners Wand, Beckman, and Bell. Port Staff Present: C. Anderson, C. Shuck, J. Robb, K. Sweeney, M. Nimmo, P. Deja, B. James, D. Hagiwara, and C. Boddy. Public Present: K. Stansifer, L. Green, T. Beil, V. & M. Rudin, J. Elbrader, · and C. Somerville. Mayor Doyle welcomed all those in attendance to this joint meeting between the members of the City Council, the Commissioners of the Port of Port Angeles, and the Clallam County Commissioners. Manager Quinn made introductory remarks, noting that this meeting was intended to accomplish interaction, dialogue, and idea sharing among ,the elected officials of the three agencies, with an orientation toward policy direction. He reviewed the proposed agenda and then proceeded with discussion of the ftrst item. Economic Development Economic Development: Manager Quinn reviewed the City's efforts in economic development as of 1999. With the year 2000 as a project year, one of the goals was to assure the City was working collaboratively with other agencies for the benefit of the entire area. There is a mutual benefit because of Port and County property located in the City, so it is natural for the three entities to work together. Manager Quinn felt the City's role is to parmer with the others and to leverage all possible resources, such as grant opportunities. It is important that high tech initiatives move ahead as a ring of influence spreads in the region. County Administrator Rumpeltes felt the newest and most significant effort the County is pursuing is the Oppommity Fund, as a result of State legislation approving funds for rural counties. The fund generates approximately $.5 million per year, and the concept brought forward by Bart Phillips was to create loan and small grant opportunities for public capital facilities to retain and increase jobs in the County. Administrator Rumpeltes reviewed the oversight board created in conjunction with the Opportunity Fund, how the fund was established, and how it would operate. There are two proposals being considered at this time; by definition, any public entity can apply for -1- 4163 CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 23, 2000 Economic Development funds. (Cont'd) Discussion followed, and Port Executive Director Anderson summarized a joint application involving the City and Port whereby an infrastructure/engineering analysis can be conducted for the Industrial Park south of the airport. The ultimate goal is that the costs can be included in the City's long-term capital plan and budget. The City of Forks has submitted a pre-application for an Opportunity Fund grant, and discussion ensued about other types of projects being contemplated. Manager Quiun indicated that, as infrastructure/fiber needs progress, there will be more demand for these funds. He suggested that consideration be given to the parameters that might need to be set in this regard. Administrator Rumpeltes continued by discussing the timber inventory, and Commissioner Doherty provided timber inventory history and a review of the funding entities. Three applications have been submitted to conduct the inventory, but it is likely the project will not commence for another three months. It is anticipated that the inventory can be used as a marketing tool, and the County hopes to attract a couple of small mills once the inventory has been completed. The inventory will also focus on the impact of regulations currently in place. To that end, Administrator Rumpeltes noted there are more attempts to make the regulatory process more user friendly in the interest of economic development, and Manager Quirm stated this is an issue for the City as well. Further, he felt it important for the City and County to identify areas in which they can work together in the interest of making the regulatory process more "seamless" for the public. This could be a consideration especially as relates to the ' Urban Growth Area. Commissioner Doherty felt there is an ongoing battle to protect what we have in terms of quality of life and also managed growth. However, there are areas in which the communities could work together, such as hotel/motel tax allocations. It would be in everyone's best interest to work together so that the lodging taxes don't create additional overhead. Perhaps the funds could be used more wisely, and Commissioner Doherty identified areas in which cooperation might be accomplished, such as cooperative web sites. Discussion followed on how lodging taxes are allocated by the County, how much has been set aside for capital facilities, and how much is directed toward marketing. Commissioner Tharinger felt there is a need to remember the agricultural aspect of the County, as there are various pieces that fit into the economic puzzle. He suggested a farmers market as a venue for the sale for farm products. In addition, as a means of directing tourists, he identified the need for more and better signage on the locations of lavender fields, bike trails, etc. Commissioner Doherty discussed the sanctuary as an example of how additional brochures might be purchased for distribution to the tourists. Also, the Marine Resources Committee received $25,000 for education and interpretation, and this can be capitalized upon to ultimately help the tourist industry. Ms. Anderson referenced the Port's 10-year Capital Improvement Plan, noting the Port is one of the main contributors to economic development because of the air and sea transportation facilities and opportunities. The Port operates much differently in that it is not regulatory in nature; funding is primarily from operations. Only 8% of the Port's total budget is in taxes. The Port is a landlord in many cases, and Ms. Anderson listed the different properties in Port possession. She reviewed the success in Carlsborg and noted that most of the Port property cannot be sold, as it is restricted to leasing. Ms. Anderson discussed recent property acquisition and related how many companies prefer to own property. The Port now has property available on a lease basis which will result in new jobs. The Capital Improvement Plan was formulated in association with this year's budget and, in conjunction with that effort, advisory committees have been established as relates to the Marina and the Airport. In addition, focus groups are working on harbor use, marine fishing, airport usage, and identification of needed land improvements. Brief discussion followed on the implementation of intedocal agreements, how lead agency status is identified, and how roles are established in conjunction with the agreements. Ms. Anderson cited the example of the joint effort between the City and the Port on the Valley Creek Estuary, the Airport Road realignment, and the study on infrastructure needs in the area of the Airport. The associated agreements identify the role of each participating agency. It was suggested that the agencies might work cooperatively in the timing of some of their projects, and Manager Quinn felt it would -2- CITY COUNCiL MEEIING March 23, 2000 Economic Development be beneficial to share the capital improvement plans. (Cont'd) Commissioner Beil mentioned the CERB loans and the fact that they are also available to the City and the County. Ms. Anderson stated they are available to any public entity. Discussion followed about Public Works Trust Fund loans. Commissioner Doherty noted that, by statute, the County has very little economic development authority. However, the County might be helpful on land use regulations and also in the area of supporting certain legislation to bring abOut needed regulatory change. Commissioner Waud noted the Port has a history of industrial development resulting in over 300 jobs. He noted the partnership between the Port, the EDC, and the City, and Manager Quinn felt this is a relationship that must continue for economic development to be secure. Discussion followed on the importance of fiber to the City and its businesses and the fact that business will not survive if it does not enter the e-business arena. Commissioner Beckman addressed the South Industrial Park, noting there is a real demand for private ownership in the industrial parks. He felt this to be a prime opportunity for economic development in the County. Landfill Options Landfill Options: Public Works & Utilities Director Cutler provided a status report on the landfill, which serves as the regional landfill and is now permitted to February, 2001. A permit will be required to 2006, when the landfill will be closed permanently. Cells 1 & 2 will be closed this summer at a cost of $1 million. Challenges related to the landfill have to do with controlling wildlife and changing the habits of residents who use the landfill in terms of recycling. Composting operations will be started in order to take care of biosolids and yard waste. In conjunction with the closure of the landfill, there is a need to identify how we will replace the multiple things the landfill does for us, such as heavy objects, construction debris, yard waste, etc. In addition, consideration must be given to the need for emergency pick-up. Commissioner Doherty directed attention to the possibility ora regional septage facility, and Director Cutler indicated the possibility is definitely being considered. Further, the City is looking at an alternate disposal location for biosolids from the treatment plant, as well as yard waste. Commissioner Doherty referenced a work session held about six months ago at which time consideration was given to a storage facility for the west end which he felt could possibly be located at the landfill. Discussion followed, and it was noted that FKC has shown interest in being involved in septage handling. Department of Community Development Director Martin stated that a great deal of progress has been made at the landfill, and it is the County's expectation that permit renewals will be managed. The wildlife control management plan seems to be working, and there is a need to see if we can jointly find a progressive way to deal with septage. Director Martin indicated the landfill is at its limit, and there is no expectation that it will be available for disposal after 2006. County Engineer Hauff advised the group that his department does solid waste planning, a matter which is being addressed by the County's Solid Waste Advisory Committee. He listed everyone who will be signatory to the Solid Waste Management Plan, which will likely be forwarded to the City Council for consideration at its April 18 meeting. The plan addresses major changes in the solid waste arena, as it is recognized the County will end up with some type of long distance hauling. Issues needing further consideration include transportation options and operation responsibility for a transfer station. Engineer Hauff urged all concerned to thoroughly review the plan. Discussion followed, particularly on the matter of using biosolids and yard waste for composted material. The group addressed the methodology by which pathogens are killed, cost factors associated with composting, as well as a consideration for incineration. Director Martin cautioned the group that incineration could create a hazardous material and would also involve potential air quahty issues. Manager Quinn felt the elected officials need to consider how the transfer takes place once the landfill is closed, for example, would the landfill be turned over to the County. Ms. Anderson noted that, from the Port's perspective, how the issue of solid waste is dealt with will have a long-term economic development impact. She has been pleased with the way the City has worked with the Port on the wildlife management at the airport. Commissioner Doherty indicated he would be supportive of the City moving closer to recycling. Director Cutler then addressed the group on the City's upcoming effort to start phasing out the 300 gallon containers and moving to 90 gallon containers. This is a 3:year program with a £mancial incentive for people to recycle. -3- 4165 CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 23, 2000 Break The meeting was recessed for a break at 5:25 p.m. and reconvened at 5:55 p.m. Stormwater/Watershed Stormwater/19'atershed Management: Director Martin summarized the regional Management approach to stormwater/watershed management, especially as relates to the 4(d) Rule. The County received a DOE grant for its stormwater management plan; a draft plan was established and has since been rewritten. A good resource has been the existing manual for Puget Sound, which has been helpful in such areas as permitting in critical areas, other development permits, and also identifying which management practices make sense in different parts of the County. Director Martin noted that, as the County continues to grow and more development takes place, there is more concern between landowners about the patterns of stormwater drainage. There is also the added issue of the NMFS 4(d) Rule in that stormwater must be managed better because of the need for salmon recovel~. He was encouraged by where the County is on this matter, as work has progressed with the Dungeness Watershed Management Team. Efforts are proceeding in the implementation of policies to reduce the impact on waterways. He felt the County is in reasonably good shape, as it can work with all watershed management groups, the City, and the Port on these issues. Councilman Campbell inquired as to the nature of feedback from the National Marine Fisheries Service, and Director Martin felt the NMFS would rely on local government to protect habitat. Further discussion ensued on this regulato~ process and the expense and frustration of the City as regards the biological assessment for the Airport Road realignment. Public Works Deputy Director Kenworthy summarized th~ City's efforts in stormwater management. The City adopted its own clearing, grading and drainage ordinance and has moved through Phase I with the adoption of stormwater rules. Phase II will involve how the City deals with the water quality aspect, and Deputy Director Kenworthy indicated the City would be adopting the Puget Sound manual. He discussed the drainage of water from the County to the City to Port property. The City has partnered with different entities to address stormwater issues in such areas as Big Boy Pond, Lincoln Park, as well as the "seven streams project". The City is attempting to get City streams back in shape, which can seem like an overpowering issue. Further, the City is dealing with its combined sewer system, which Deputy Director Kenworthy noted will ultimately cost as much as the secondary treatment plant in the next few years. The inflow/infiltration project will take some of the drainage out of the sewer system and into the storm drain system. Also, the City is working towards correcting drainage into the harbor. In the ensuing discussion, Deputy Director Kenworthy indicated grant funding is difficult on stormwater projects, and the City's biggest challenge will be to meet stormwater rules for Phase II. Councilman Wiggins felt the only way the City could obtain grant funding would be through Federal assistance; however, he noted these regulations are currently unfunded mandates. The discussion that followed centered around the costs associated with these regulations, and Ms. Anderson indicated that developers are also experiencing increased costs in this arena. Further, the Port has revised its budget for the Airport primarily because of the ESA listing as it relates to stormwater management. The group then discussed the purpose of the Marine Resources Committee, its importance, and the need to maintain representation on the stormwater and watershed management issues. Ms. Anderson had promised more Port involvement, as there is a regulation against ponding within 10,000 ft, of a runway where birds would be attracted. Discussion also involved the three entities doing some offsite mitigation as part of the watershed planning issue. Commissioner Tharinger felt the natural infrastructure has been neglected, and that the account has been drawn down to a level where it needs to be rebuilt. Othe~ Issues Other Issues: Mayor Doyle directed attention to the removal of the Elwha dams and the fact that the Port Angeles water system will be affected. There has been disdussion about a possible regional water system, but it is unknown as to how this will play out. Manager Quinn added that, in addition to water quality, the matter of water fights must be addressed. Director Martin pointed out there are many Type A and Type B water systems that are presently out of compliance. On another matter, the group considered the advantages of the three entities working together in shared services and shared purchasing. Discussion was also generated on the matter of fiber optics and how the agencies can work cooperatively. -4- CITY COUNCIL MEETING March 23, 2000 Comments from the Public Public Input: Members of the public were invited to offer input to this meeting. Tim Fraser, 153 Woodcock, was pleased to see everyone working together and coordinating efforts. He was present on behalf of the North Peninsula Building Association, and he felt the public would certainly gain from this cooperation. Mr. Frazier noted that everyflfing he heard was positive, and he urged the group to continue, especially in economic development. Karen Rogers, 1320 W. 11~h Street, has been working in the area of economic development. She reminded the governmental agencies that such an effort requires networking between the public and private sector - we must be inclusive of everyone in the community. Corby Somerville, 162 Lands End Lane, is in the ship repair business, and he expressed gratitude to all concerned who are so committed to economic development. He felt the local cooperation, with the added support from Washington's Senators and Representatives, is an essential element to economic development. Manager Quinn made closing remarks and urged those in attendance to commit to a follow-up meeting. Commissioner Doherty extended the offer for the County to serge as the next host. All agreed this meeting had been beneficial, as the commitment to communication and partnering is most worthwhile. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 6:40 p.m. Becky J. l. Fl~n, Ci~ Cler'l~ I- Larry,~D .. , Mayor .~ -5- 4167 THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK