HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 04/01/2003 4912
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Port Angeles, Washington
April 1, 2003
CALL TO ORDER - Mayor Wiggins called the regular meeting of thc Port Angeles City Council to order
REGULAR MEETING: at 6:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL: Members Present: Mayor Wiggins, Councilmembers Braun, Campbell,
Headrick, Rogers, and Williams.
Members Absent: Councilmember Erickson.
Staff Present: Manager Quinn, Attorney Knutson, Clerk Upton, M.
Connelly, G. Cutler, D. McKeen, T. Riepe, Y.
Ziomkowski, G. Kenworthy, S. Johns, and T. Smith.
Public Present: P. Lamourcux, A. Holzschuh, and T. Price.
PLEDGE OF The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was led by Councilman Braun.
ALLEGIANCE:
PUBLIC CEREMONIES, 1. Chamber of Commerce Report presented by Russ Veenema, Chamber
PRESENTATIONS AND Executive Director:
PROCLAMATIONS:
Russ Veenema, Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, distributed various pieces
Chamber of Commerce of information to the Council, to include the 2003 Visitor Guide, the Port Angeles rack
Report card, the 2003 Washington State Visitors' Guide, copies of advertising placed in
different periodicals, as well as copies of comparative statistics for 2002 and 2003. Mr.
Veenema explained the various documents, noting that brochure requests are down
because tourism has been greatly impacted by the present chaos in the world. He
reviewed in detail the 2002 and 2003 statistical comparisons for the Visitor Center door
counts, room tax revenues, sales tax revenues, web visits, and lodging occupancies.
Mr. Veenema explained each category indicating that, with the exception of sales tax,
the numbers are down in 2003. He assured the Council that he would continue to
monitor the situation.
Mayor Wiggins and Councilmembers Campbell and Braun expressed appreciation for
Mr. Veenema's efforts to enhance tourism in the area, as well as the valuable
information gathered as a measurement of tourism marketing. Mr. Veenema expressed
disappointment with the lack of support at the State level to extend the area's sport
fishing season, but discussions in this regard will continue.
Mr. Veenema referenced an upcoming survey to be conducted on behalf of the City,
County, and P.U.D. by the Chamber of Commerce as relates to sewer services being
considered for the Eastern Urban Growth Area. Additionally, he thanked the Council
for its continuing efforts on the Gateway Project, expressing interest in the Visitor
Center's involvement. Mr. Veenema discussed the cooperative effort that came forth
in producing a video for the Discovery Channel at a cost of $14,500; the program
should air on May 30. Councilman Williams expressed thanks to Mr. Veenema for
taking the lead in conducting the history tours; Mr. Veenema indicated the guided tours
will commence this month, twice daily, Monday through Saturday.
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4913 CITY COUNCIL MEETING
April 1, 2003
Earth Day Proclamation 2. Earth Day Proclamation:
Mayor Wiggins read a proclamation declaring April 22, 2003, as Earth Day. The
proclamation was accepted by Director Cutler, who had earlier distributed various
promotional items for recycling.
WORK SESSION: None.
LATE ITEMS TO BE Arla Holzschuh, Port Angeles DowntownAssociation, 105 1/2 E. lSl Street, thanked the
PLACED ON THIS OR Council for forming the Parking Ad Hoc Committee and Councilmembers Rogers and
FUTURE AGENDAS: Campbell for their attendance and guidance. As a result of a number of meetings held,
a great deal of progress has been made in working towards a parking solution for the
downtownarea. The Board of Directors of the Downtown Association met to consider
the recommendation forwarded by the Ad Hoc Committee and, at this time, Ms.
Holzschuh read into the record the following letter addressed to the City Council:
"The Port Angeles Downtown Association Board of Directors has voted
unanimously to support the Council's Parking Ad Hoc Committee
recommendation referred to as Solution 2. The solution includes a second
level at the International Gateway site in Tidelands East, opening up of
parking spaces on the southerly side of the 200 East Block of Front Street,
three-hour parking in the City parking lot at the City Pier, diagonal parking
on Cherry Street and the 200 North Block of Oak Street, a street level
structure over the City's parking Lot E which is next to Zak's, and the
development ofa waterfrontpromenade fromthe City Pier to Oak Street. The
Board wishes to reaffirm the five points that conditioned their support of the
Gateway Project in March, 2001. Conditioned upon the assurance by the City
and/or Transit that there be 1.) No net loss of parking; 2.) Continuing
mitigation of the impact of the buses; 3.) Resolution of traffic flow and
congestion problems; 4.) No net loss of administrative revenue; and 5.) A
percentage for the arts, the Board voted to support the Gateway Project. We
appreciate the positive solution to resolve the no net loss of parking and
strongly urge the City to support the recommendation of its Parking Ad Hoc
Committee. Signed by Rudy Hiener, President, with copies to Clallam Transit
System Board of Directors, Mike Quinn as City Manager, and Dan DiGuilio,
the General Manager of Clallam Transit System."
Ms. Holzschuh again expressed appreciation for this concerted effort. In view of Ms.
Holzschuh's comments, Mayor Wiggins felt it appropriate to address Agenda Item I.
at this time.
OTHER Status Report & Preliminary Recommendations on Gateway by Parking Ad Hoc
CONSIDERATIONS: Committee:
Status Report & Economic Development Director Smith, aided by PowerPoint slides, conducted a
Preliminary Recommenda- review of the options and potential solutions to downtown parking concerns and other
tions on Gateway by possible business impacts resulting from the development of the Gateway Project. The
Parking Ad Hoc Committee issues had been studied in depth by the Parking Ad Hoc Committee and, before
discussing those in detail, Mr. Smith distributed various documents supportive to the
presentation.
He then reviewed the Ravenhurst Draft Parking Garage Study which conceptualized
a 350-space garage either at the City Light lot or on Tidelands West. The garage could
offset parking shortfalls experiencedbecause of the Gateway Project and the Oak Street
development, with funding provided by the City, the Oak Street developer, bond
financing, and revenues generated from the facility. The preferred site in the draft
study was identified as Tidelands West. Mr. Smith then acknowledged the members
of the Parking Ad Hoc Committee, all ofwhomhad agreed to address conflicts between
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING 4914
April 1, 2003
OTI-IER the Gateway design and the goal of no net loss of parking. Parking needs were
CONSIDERATIONS: identified in relation to ferry passengers, retail customers, and permit parking, and a
(Cont'd) goal was established to create new parking in close proximity to current parking.
Further, the members of the committee agreed that a solution should involve as much
Status Report & current design investment as possible and should also be financially feasible. Other
Preliminary Recommenda- considerations involved the need to identify a solution that would help leverage an Oak
tions on Gateway by Street development, plus an added solution in terms of changing the current
Parking Ad Hoc Committee configuration of on-street parking.
(Cont'd)
Mr. Smith offered historical perspectives of the Gateway Project and the Port Angeles
P.B.I.A., after which he discussed the "brainstorming" sessions held on parking
solutions as relates to the Gateway design. With regard to the specific suggestions
made on parking, Mr. Smith showed slides depicting aerial projections of the various
solutions considered, all of whichhad been enumerated earlier by Ms. Holzschuh, as
well as a projection of the comprehensive solution. He indicated that construction of
the Tidelands West block parking garage could be in a phased approach.
Attention was then directed to projected costs, with the original design estimated at
$6,391,000 and the solution design estimated at $11,262,000. Mr. Smith contemplated
funding for the original design could fall about $1,000 short, with funding sources
being the Federal Transportation Administration, the Transportation Improvement
Board, and the Chamber Visitor Center. Added funding sources for the solution design
could include the sale of City/P.B.I.A. land, as well as a parking revenue bond. In this
instance, a funding gap of $872,000 was indicated. Mr. Smith suggested the funding
gap be closed by private investment and indicated it is unknown as to the level of
private sector support but, ultimately, the level of contribution must come close to the
$872,000 funding gap.
Mr. Smith continued that private sector investment can occur in different ways, such
as an increase in the P.B.I.A., a downtown LID, a parking tax paid by consumers, a
direct private sector investment, or a combination of the above. The committee
recognizes that these recommendations cannot come to fruition absent this private
sector investment. Manager Quinn offered input on the financing side of the solution,
feeling this to be a balanced approach in terms of funding sources from businesses,
property owners, and consumers. The P.B.I.A. fee generates approximately $22,000+;
the average fee is $115 per business with 192 paying businesses. There are multiple
rates based on the size of the business and the number of employees. A proposal had
been submitted previously to increase P.B.I.A. fees by 20%, which could generate an
additional $4,400. Over a 20-year time period, with funds provided up front for
capital, this could generate $50,000 for capital financing. If an increase of 40% were
instituted, $100,000 could be generated; if the P.B.I.A. fee were to be doubled,
$250,000 might be generated in terms of improvements. He indicated that these
possibilities, at the very least, give the Council an idea how additional funds might be
generated.
Secondly, Manager Quinn addressed the possibility of a downtown LID, suggesting the
consideration that property owners might be involvedbecause of the improvementsthat
would positively influence the commercial viability of their property. Another benefit
would be the increased property values which should then reflect on lease rate
capabilities. An LID was done before in the downtown area in the 1980's, and Manager
Quinn indicated that over $680,000 was generated for downtown improvements for an
average per lot assessment of under $3,400. Interest rates at that time were actually
higher than the current rate, and similar numbers could likely be generated if property
owners were to pay $250-$500 per year. A combination of participation from the
property owners and the business owners could likely generate considerable financing.
Another consideration for financing could involve consumers, and Manager Quinn
referenced the fact that consumers would pay parking fees, The City could consider
4915 CITY COUNCIL MEETING
April 1, 2003
OTHER the adoption of a parking tax which is authorized under RCW 82.80.030, and a parking
CONSIDERATIONS: tax of 5% could generate from $8,500 - $10,000 per year in terms of estimates prepared
(Cont'd) by Ravenhurst at the low end for strictly a parking garage. The parking tax can be
applied to all parking facilities in which fees are charged, so income can also be
Status Report & generated from surface lots managed by other commercial operators. Manager Quinn
Preliminary Recommenda- indicated that a parking tax can be paid either by the operator of the parking facility or
tions on Gateway by by the consumer. With the ability of charging the parking tax and leveraging that for
ParkingAdHoc Committee capital financing, Manager Quinn felt $100,000 - $200,000 could be generated. He
(Cont'd) identified other potential sources of miscellaneous revenues, such as private donations
or private investments in the form of a purchase of a lot or space for the benefit of
business employees, as well as other types of private investmentsand donations over
a course of 20 years. Other revenue sources to be considered are parking fines and
forfeitures. Manager Quinn summarized that, between consumers, property owners,
and businesses, a balanced approach might be adopted to easily generate the amount
of money needed for capital financing to make up the funding gap.
Mr. Smith advised the Council that, although private sector investment hasn't been
solidified, there are many options that can be pursued. As stated by Ms. Holzschuh,
this overall proposal is gaining ground. From the historical perspective, Mr. Smith
indicated that the DowntownForward Master Plan did not have any supportive funding
for the proposals brought forward. However, there was a plan and there was consensus
and, as a result, there is an investment in downtown Port Angeles between public and
private sector investment of over $19 million to date, most of which is private sector
investment. He expressed confidence that the community could finalize the necessary
funding for the proposed parking solution, particularly because of the collaborators
involved in the Gateway redesign endeavor. He recommended that the Council
consider this comprehensive solution at a work session where the financing, cost
estimates, and designs can be discussed in depth. The Council then agreed to set a
special meeting for this purpose for Tuesday, April 29, 2003, at 6:00 p.m.
Break Mayor Wiggins recessed the meeting for a break at 7:20 p.m. The meeting reconvened
at 7:40 p.m.
FINANCE: 1. Contract Change Order No. 1 - Reservoir Cleaning and Inspections, Project
02-32:
Contract Change Order
Reservoir Cleaning and Public Works & Utilities Director Cutler explained to the Council that one inch of
Inspections sediment was expected during the cleaning of the Peabody Heights reservoir; however,
almost two inches were found thus necessitating this change order. The change order
results in a contract amount that exceeds $15,000, and City Council approval is
required. After limited discussion, Councilman Campbell moved to approve and
authorize the City Manager to sign Contract Change Order No. 1 to LiquidVision
Technology in the amount of $5,102.71 for removal of excess sediment. The
motion was seconded by Councilman Headriek and carried unanimously.
Laurel Street Slide Repairs 2. Laurel Street Slide Repairs, Project 96-05, Construction Change Order and
Construction Change Order Engineering Services Amendment:
and Engineering Services
Amendment Director Cutler provided background information with regard to an alternate solution
for the Laurel Street Slide Repair Project. This issue had been discussed by the
Council in November, at which time staffwas directed to return with a finalized design
and negotiated cost. Deputy Director of Engineering Services Kenworthy informed the
Council that, at the time, the estimated project cost was $210,000. Primo
Constmction's current estimate for project construction is $203,000; however, the
contractor's cost for doing the helical soil nailing increased by $15,000. The
Engineer's estimate was $187,000 and, with the added geoteclmical work, a total of
$216,000 to finish the contract will require an additional $25,000 from the General
Fund over the original estimate. Mr. Kenworthy showed an exhibit to the Council of
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING 4916
April 1, 2003
Laurel Street Slide Repairs the project design, and he explained the process to be used for the project.
Construction Change Order
and Engineering Services Mr. Kenworthy, at the request of Councilman Headrick, clarified the project costs and
Amendment (Cont'd) funding sources. Councilman Headrick expressed concern with the use of additional
General Fund resources, and Councilman Braun felt that costs may escalate even
further should the Council choose not to proceed at this time. Councilmember Rogers
shared concern with the use of General Fund resources; however, she felt there was no
other solution in view of the hazardous nature of the area. The Council was informed
that the project should be complete by the end of May and, after further discussion,
Councilmember Rogers moved to approve and authorize the City Manager to sign
Construction Change Order No. 1 with Primo Construction in the amount of
$111,416.60 and Amendment No. 1 to the agreement with Milbor-Pita for added
engineering service in the amount not to exceed $12,800.00 and, further, to
allocate $25,000 in added General Fund reserves and $50,000 in Electric Utility
reserves to cover estimated completion costs. The motion was seconded by
Councilman Braun and carried by a majority vote, with Councilman Headrick
voting in opposition.
Marine Life Center 3. Marine Life Center Contract:
Contract
Parks & Recreation Director Cormelly presented information pertinent to the 2003
agreement with Peninsula College for the Marine Life Center noting that, due to budget
constraints, there has been a $5,000 reduction in the amount typically awarded for the
operation of the Center. However, in negotiating the agreement, a creative solution has
been generated in the form of revenue sharing, and Director Connelly explained the
relevant details. He advised the Council that the hours of operation have been reduced
somewhat. Discussion ensued concerning the need for marketing of the facility, as well
as the need to move the front door to where the entrance is more obvious. Director
Connelly indicated the College has expressed interest in negotiating a future contract
for a longer term, perhaps 3 - 5 years. Councilman Braun moved to authorize the
Parks & Recreation Director to sign the agreement with Peninsula College for
year 2003 operation of the Marine Life Center. Councilman Campbell seconded
the motion, which carried unanimously.
Interlocal Agreement with 4. Interlocal Agreement with Clallarn County on Reciprocal Building &
Claltam County on P/ann lng Services:
Reciprocal Building &
Planning Services Associate Planner Scott Johns advised the Council that the proposed amendment is
necessary in view of the added language pertinent to building inspections. Clerk Upton
responded to Councilmember Rogers that the County had approved the Interlocal
Agreement earlier in the day. Councilman Campbell moved to approve the
proposed City/County Interlocal Agreement amendments for building review
services and a more current hourly rate and authorize the Mayor to sign the
agreement. Councilman Headrick seconded the motion, which carried
unanimously.
Cingular Wireless Antenna 5. Cingular Wireless Antenna Lease at Shane Park:
Lease at Shane Park
Parks & Recreation Director Connelly summarized information pertinent to the
proposed Cingular Wireless Antenna Lease at Shane Park, noting the installation of the
antenna would replace an existing light pole at the Park. This is the same type of
installation as that of the VoiceStream antenna already located at the Park. Aided by
PowerPoint slides, Director Connelly showed pictures of the antenna placement,
indicating that co-location with VoiceStream was not possible as the pole was not tall
enough. In the ensuing discussion, Director Connelly related a desire expressed by the
Parks, Recreation & Beautification that Shane Park not become an "antenna park".
Councilman Braun indicated the proposed lease had been discussed by the Real Estate
Committee, and it was noted that anything over 125 feet would require the placement
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4917 CITY COUNCIL MEETING
April 1, 2003
Cingular Wireless Antenna of a light in view of aircraft in the vicinity. Manager Quinn offered an amendment to
Lease at Shane Park the lease language, adding a requirement for the payment of a Leasehold Tax, after
(Cont'd) which Councilman Headriek moved to authorize the Mayor to sign the lease, as
amended by the City Manager, allowing Cingular Wireless LLC to construct and
operate a wireless communications antenna at Shane Park. Councilman Braun
seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.
CONSENT AGENDA: Following brief discussion pertinent to items on the Check List, Councilman
Braun moved to accept the Consent Agenda, to include: 1.) City Council Minutes
of March 18, 2003; 2.) Expenditure Approval List - March 25, 2003 - $572,122.47;
3.) Electronic Payments - March 24, 2003 - $330,008.40; 4.) Final Acceptance and
Release of Retainage for Mezzanine Contract; and 5.) 2003 United Way Contract.
The motion was seconded by Councilman Campbell and carried unanimously.
CITY COUNCIL Manager Quinn noted the first Council meeting in May was corrected to May 6. The
COM3$ITTEE Gateway meeting scheduled for May 4~ was cancelled, and Councilmember Rogers
REPORTS & announced a Community & Economic Development meeting for May 4th, 2:00 p.m.
CALENDAR: Councilman Williams generated discussion regarding the next Real Estate Committee
meeting, which was then confLrmed for April 14~hat 4:00 p.m.
Councilman Headrick attended a meeting of the Law & Justice Committee; discussions
were again held concerning the proposed 1/10th of 1% sales tax. The County is still
a proponent of using the tax revenues for corrections and juvenile facilities.
Councilman Braun attended the OPS Awards luncheon, and a meeting of the Ad Hoc
Ice Skating Sports Facility. The group will bemeeting on April 17 at 7:00 p.m. with
the Pool Renovation Committee. A work session is being planned for the City Council
on the entire project, likely the first part of May.
Councilmember Rogers attended the EDC Annual Meeting, made a trip to Olympia
concerning the Graving Yard, and has been working on economic development projects
to be discussed at a future date. She participated in the Parking Ad Hoc Committee
meetings, and has been working on seeking appropriations for the Drag Task Force.
Councilman Williams attended a meeting on the Hood Canal Bridge project, during
which consideration was given to mitigation efforts, parking, and ferry service. Mayor
Wiggins attended the Tribal Potlatch which was a most successful event.
ORDINANCES NOT None.
REQUIRING PUBLIC
HEARINGS:
RESOLUTIONS: None.
PUBLIC HEARINGS - None.
QUASI-JUDICIAL:
PUBLIC HEARINGS - None.
OTHER:
INFORMATION: None.
EXECUTIVE SESSION: The meeting adjourned to Executive Session at 8:35 p.m. to discuss an item of potential
litigation for 10 - 15 minutes.
RETURN TO OPEN The meeting returned to Open Session at 8:50 p.m.
SESSION:
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING 4918
April 1, 2003
ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 8:50 p.m.
~ ....... Glenn Wiggins, Mayor Becky J. Upt6~ CitxT~Clerk
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