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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 04/12/2005 5615 CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING Port Angeles, Washington April 12, 2005 CALL TO ORDER - Mayor Headrick called the special meeting of the Port Angeles City Council to order SPECIAL MEETING: at 5:30 p.m. ROLL CALL: Members Present: Mayor Headrick, Councilmembers Braun, Erickson, Munro, Rogers, and Williams. Members Absent: Councilmember Pittis. StaffPresenr' Manager Quinn, Attorney Bloor, Clerk Upton, G. Cutler, M. Madsen, T. Riepe, P. Reifenstahl, S. Romberg, K. Dubuc, A. Goff, D Bellamente, and B. Coons. Public Present: S. Hams; C. Kidd; S. Blair; J. & M. Senf; D., V., & S. Tutton; R. & C. McDougall; E. Chadd; D. & A. Ruddick; S. & T. Moore; R. & J. Vennetti; J. & K. Hoine; D. Fairbaim; J., T., K., J., and D. Macias; E. & L. Richards; A. Shaffer; T., L., & B. Crowley; S. Knapp; H. Shafer; M., H., & C. Juskevich; K., S., & K. Romberg; J., L., & J. Pankowski; D. Maguire; G. Huff; S., E., A., and S. Koehler; L. Fairchild; M. Hayman; J. LeDuke; D. Tschimperle; T. Blair; T. & D. Holth; R., J., & K. Garcelon; and A. Anderson. All others present in the audience failed to sign the roster. PLEDGE OF The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was led by Councilmember Munro. ALLEGIANCE: OTHER l. Resolution Supporting Passage of Port Angeles School District Maintenance CONSIDERATIONS: & Operations Levy: Resolution Supporting Mayor Headrick introduced the Resolution supporting the passage of the Port Angeles Passage of Port Angeles School District Maintenance & Operations Levy. He read the Resolution by title, School District M & O entitled Levy Resolution No. 6-05 RESOLUTION NO. 6-05 A RESOLUTION of the City Council of the City of Port Angeles, Washington, in support of the Port Angeles School District No. 121 Maintenance & Operations Levy Renewal for 2006-2007. Councilmember Braun moved to pass the Resolution as read by title. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Rogers. Mayor Headrick then opened the floor to public comment and, there being none at the moment, Councilmember Munro commented he heard a presentation at a Rotary meeting at which time Jim Jones, Port Angeles School District, shared the results of ..... academic achievement. In many cases, the results were stellar, and Councilmember -1- 5616 CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING April 12, 2005 OTHER Munro observed that the School District is in the top quartile in WASL testing and CONSIDERATIONS: reading. Resolution Supporting Jim Jones, Executive Director of Business and Operations, 2106 Seabreeze Place, Passage of Port Angeles clarified that Standard & Pours recently announced a nationwide study that was School District M & O undertaken to identify outperforming school districts. Port Angeles was selected as one Levy of fifteen that were outperforming when considering the area demographics and poverty Resolution No. 6-05 levels, as there has long been an association between the successes of schools in direct correlation to the demographics and poverty levels in terms of performance. Mr. Jones indicated that various grade levels, especially the 4th Grade, had the highest performance during three consecutive years, and the 4th Grade is currently number one. In addition, it was announced that five of the Port Angeles schools are in the top 10% in the State, regardless of demographics. M/kc Brown, 224 Whidby, addressed the WASL scores for the 10t~ Grade, indicating that less than 35% of the students qualify to graduate. He felt the Port Angeles School District was being considered stellar in its performance when, after viewing the State School Superintendent'sweb site, it appears that less than one-third of the Port Angeles students would have obtained the minimum level of required knowledge. When asked by Mayor Headrick if he was in favor of the Resolution supporting the levy, Mr. Brown stated he was not, as he felt the decision should be left to the voters. There being no further public input, a vote was taken on the motion, which carried unanimously. Presentation from YMCA 2. Presentation from YMCA on Swimming Pool Proposal: on Swimming Pool Proposal Ray Graver, 2802 South Laurel and a member of the YMCA Board of Directors, was present to submit a proposal on behalf of the YMCA to share the Y's developing vision of the William Shore Memorial Pool to enhance family recreation in the community. Mr. Graver, with the use of PowerPoint slides, provided a historical perspective of the YMCA in the community and in the nation, particularly as relates to partnerships with local govermnents on swimming pools. Citing the City's Comprehensive Plan, Mr. Graver supported the concept of the City forging effective partnerships and strengthening its ties with other pnhlic, private, and non-profit providers. He discussed the proposed siting of the facility at the YMCA in order to gain a full-service curm~unJty center in an ideal and central location that is also within the current recreation corridor. Mr. Graver touched on the subject of fees, indicating the YMCA would propose that fees be set in concert with the City through a cooperative agreement created by the partnership. Addressing the costs to operate the facility, Mr. Graver was of the opinion that it would be more cost effective to operate one facility as opposed to two in terms of a fitness and aquatic facility. He added that the YMCA has projected a savingsto taxpayers in the amount of $200,000 per year and, further, that user fees of the Y and the City would be identical. Mr. Gruver used as an example the Grays Harbor YMCA in Aberdeen that generates significantly more in annual membership revenue than the Clallam County YMCA. He indicated that YMCA scholarships would mean affordability for the users. He then directed attention to possible scenarios for capital construction costs, as well as capital financing options. The Y is working with a consultant who is also working with Port Townsend and the Jefferson County YMCA on recreational opportunities. Mr. Gruver felt that governments are good at raising funds for capital investment; however, non-profit organizations seem to excelin the operation of facilities, so he was confident that the proposed partnership with the Ciw would be successful. Mr. Graver advised the Council that the land for the facility and parking would be donated by the YMCA, as the organization has made various property acquisitions in the area. He felt -2- CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING 5617 April 12, 2005 Presentation from YMCA it beneficial that the City Hall site would then be pre served for other opportunities. Mr. on Swimming Pool Graver stressed the fact that non-profit organizations have a long history of being able Proposal (Cont'd) to raise a lot of money to do great things for the community, and they can raise money differently than government can. Mr. Gruver discussed a breakdown of projected operational costs, based on assumptions of what an aquatics center would cost to operate, and he reiterated the value of the partnership in the interest of enhancing the potential for a great project. The YMCA Board feels that the community deserves an outstanding facility to serve the greatest number of people at the best possible cost, and it has agreed that the proposed location would be good for the community. The Board strongly supported a cooperative effort with the City, and it would welcome participation in a group to further consider the proposal. Dan Maguire, YMCA Executive Director, approached the podium to stress the importance of the enhanced revenues that could be gained by combining the two facilities. He pointed out the differences between the Grays Harbor facility and the Clallam County facility, indicating there would be a synergy by combining all of the activities. Discussion followed, with Mr. Gruver answering questions posed by the Council. Councilmember Rogers referenced the possible Washington State Housing and Finance loan, wondering if it would qualify for a stressed area interest rate reduction. Gary Huff, a member of the YMCA Board, approached the podium to respond, indicating he had been in contact with the Housing and Finance Committee and had been informed the project would qualify for a non-profit, tax exempt bond at a going rate of 4 - 6% interest. However, he didn't pose the specific question raised by CouncilmemberRogers. Councilmember Munro inquired as to whether the YMCA had quantified what might be contributed to a capital project of this magnitude, and Mr. Graver indicated they had conducted a type of survey of the membership and learned the membership would willingly payincreased membership fees to assure the project moves forward. If a Metropolitan Park District were to be created, Councilmember Williams inquired of Mr. Graver as to where he would envision the boundaries. Mr. Graver briefly focused on different fees paid by City and County residents, and he felt it would be logical to use the same boundaries as those presently used by the School District. Economic & Community Development Director Madsen added that collaboration brings great things, and it is advantageous to look beyond the borders of the City in providing services. He agreed that it makes sense to panner with other agencies and governments to extend services to the overall community which is not necessarily defined by City limits. Councilmember Braun asked what, under a worst case scenario, the YMCA would do if it could no longer operate the facility. Mr. Graver felt that same questioncould be asked of the City, and he indicated that other municipalities had been forced to close swimmingpools because of the cost factor. For that reason, many YMCA's have been asked to take over the operation of such facilities in those communities. He felt the YMCA organization in Port Angeles has proven itself over the long term, and it has a history of creating partnerships and working through very difficult times. Director Madsen observed the interesting phenomenon of the time lag when a community experiences economic distress. The impact on a government in terms of time is far different than that experienced by non-profit organizations, as the non profits see a more shallow influence on giving patterns. Councilmember Mumo summarized a potential schedule regarding the pool, as the matter was just considered the previous day by the Parks Subcommittee. The Pool Steering Committee would meet by the end of April to select a preferred City Hall site, the Committee would meet over a period of five to eight months to work on key assumptions regarding City Hall and YMCA sites, public meetings would continue 5618 CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING April 12, 2005 Presentation from YMCA during that time frame, and the City Council would meet at year end to select one of the on Swimming Pool alternatives. The City Council would then communicate its decision to the voters for Proposal (Cont'd) consideration of a bond issue or an alternative funding strategy in the Fall of 2006. Construction of the pool would then be targeted for 2007. Discussion ensued as to the current membership and representation on the Pool Steering Committee and, after further consideration, it was agreed that two representatives from the YMCA should join the group. Mr. Gruver assured Public Works & Utilities Director Cutler that he would provide the names of the two representatives for the YMCA, and Director Cutler announced that the next meeting of the Steering Committee is scheduled for Wednesday, April 27, 2005, 6:00 p.m., in the Public Works Conference Room. Break Mayor Headrick recessed the meeting fur a break at 6:25 p.m. The meeting reconvened at 6:45 p.m. Presentation from Port 3. Presentation from Port,,tngeles Swim Club Regarding Proposed Contract for Angeles Swim Club Use of Pool: Regarding Proposed Contract Linda Crowley, 1614 W. 12th Street and Vice President of the Port Angeles SwimClub, read a statement into the record regarding the Swim Club's position on a proposed contract between the City and the Swim Club for use of the pool. Ms. Crowley provided historical information on the Swim Club, the past usage of the pool over a period of 40 years, current Club dues and expenses for each swimmer, as well as the in.kind services provided by the Club the value of which is projected at $51,700. Ms. Crowley addressed specific issues being proposed in the contract, which included reduced pool space for the Club and increased fees to the swimmers, all of which she indicated would have a detrimental effect on the Swim Club and its members. Ms. Crowley discussed in detail the financial impacts, the progress or the lack thereof pertinent to contract negotiations, and the fact that the City does not charge other youth programs for the use of City facilities. Ms. Crowleyexpressed the hope that the City Council would choose to support the youth of the community and restore the Swim Club's full use of the pool without the increased charges. She felt that the Swim Club members should not be viewed as a means of balancing the budget or to provide additional revenue for the pool. Dani Macias, a County resident, informed the Council of the difficulties her family of four children would encounter if the increased fees were to be approved. She felt that swimming is a great multi-age sport, and that the increased fees would essentially establish a mechanism whereby it would be decided who could or could not join the Swim Club. She urged the Council to be mindful of those who could not afford the increased fees. Darlene Knapp, a resident in Sequim, moved to the area one and one-half years ago and, because of conditions at the Sequim pool, she and seven to eight other Sequim families choose to drive their children to Port Angeles to participate in the Swim Club activities. She cited the excellent coach who is teaching the children in Port Angeles, and she acknowledged the fact that Parks & Recreation needs to make money, but she felt it goes beyond charging fees. She opined that the City's image in this regard is important, particularly as viewed by the outside communities. Roger Wheeler, a County resident, advised the Council that he is President of Junior Babe Ruth. He referenced previous considerations of what was termed a Kid Tax, something that was not ultimately approved. Beingin the construction business, Mr. Wheeler indicated it may be more expensive to maintain a pool than ballfields, but he felt it would be a shame to take facilities away from the kids. Mr. Wheeler felt the City should be looking at giving the kids more to do with more facilities, as there is a need for additional ballfields. He asked the Council to remember that the youth are the backbone of the area, and he reminded the Council that great things happen in the community, and the Council should view the whole picture. -4- CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING 5619 April 12, 2005 Presentation from Port Kelli Hoine, a High School Freshman, offered her perspective as a swimmer. She Angeles Swim Club shared with the Council the difficulties and frustrations being experienced in the pool Regarding Proposed in terms of crowded conditions and the reducedlevel of training because the yardage Contract (Cont'd) can't be attained. Diane Holth approached the podium, informing the Council that her children grew up at the pool. She felt swimming is a wonderful enhancement to other sports, that it is good for cross training, and that it fosters good organization and better habits on the part of the youth. She felt that ultimately the kids become better students and serve as better members of the communitybecause of the discipline associated with swimming. Ms. Holth indicated she is a swimming official, volunteering her time in support of the swimming activities. Public Works & Utilities Director Cutler understood there was a great need for a new pool in the community, and he recognized there is a great value to the Swhn Club in providing alternative recreation for the youth of the community. However, he felt it difficult to negotiate a contract in a public forum, especially because he thought negotiations were going well. Further, he indicated there is a process which must be followed in contract negotiations, as he would not have the final decision-making authority. He had planned to bring the results of the negotiations back to the oversight committee before proceeding. Director Cutler indicated there had been no fee increases in the last year, just a reduction in space utilized at the pool by virtue of the City's requirement to provide a safe environment, to include the training of lifeguards for certification purposes. Director Cutler referenced the list of issues that had been identified as either resolved or pending, and he was feeling that many discussions had been taken out of context. He added that the City has a large expense in maintaining the pool, something that is paid by the taxpayers through the Budget in the form of a subsidy, which explains why the issue is being addressed. Councilmember Braun, because of discussions under way to constt'uct a new pool facility, felt it would be advantageous to defer any changes to the Swim Club's arrangements pending the opening of the new pool. He felt that a larger pool would better accommodate the needs of the Swim Club, and he asked that the Council consider the deferral of the issue. Conncilmember Erickson spoke in support of having the negotiating process continue, as the ultimate recommendation will be forwarded to the Council for consideration. Conncilmember Munro, as a member of the Parks Subcommittee, was of the opinion that users of the pool should make some sort of payment. This issue came to the Council before and was directed to the Subcomrmttee, who gave instruction to Director Cutler to continue negotiations for a fee stmcture~ Councilmember Munro agreed that part of the fee consideration could be comprised for in-kind services, as there was no question as to the value of the Swim Club, but he felt that some type of fee would be reasonable. He expressed the hope that staff and the Swim Club could agree upon a reasonable structure. Mayor Headrick inquired as to what would constitute reasonable, and Councilmember Munro felt that the fees suggested would be reasonable and, for those unable to afford to fees, then in-kind services could be provided. Jim Hoine, a County resident and President of the Swim Club, inquired as to whether the High School was paying a fee for the use of the pool. He was informed there is an agreement between the School District and the City for the use of each other's facilities. When asked if the in-kind services provided by the Swim Club were of any value, Conncilmember Munro felt they were; however, but many of those services support the Swim Club as opposed to the City. Mr. Hoine informed the Cotmcil that the biggest issue to be resolved is the decrease in pool space allowed for the Swim Club. He felt that, when not in use for other purposes or for stafftraining, the Club should be allowed to use all of the swim lanes. Further, he felt that this issue was not appropriately being resolved in negotiations, and that there should be a balance to the scheduling in order to meet everyone's needs. He suggested there be alternative hmes selected for staff -5- 5620 CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING April 12, 2005 Presentation from Port training in Lane 6. Angeles Swim Club Regarding Proposed Councilmember Erickson observed that it appeared the issue was specifically related Contract (Cont'd) to the use of Lane 6 and the dive tank; however, the Swim Club had agreed to pay the fees. Mr. Hoine responded that the Club agreed to pay the fees only in the interest of having access to all of the lanes. Further, he indicated the pool staffwonldn't allow the use of Lane 6, even when training was not being conducted. Councilmember Munro indicated it appeared Mr. Hoine was approaching the matter in a reasonable fashion, and that some fees would be acceptable. He expressed the hope that the matter of space availability could be worked out to everyone's satisfaction, and he urged continuation of the discussions to that end. Councilmember Rogers acknowledged the awkwardness of discussing these issues in this particular setting, and she encouraged all concerned to return to the table to work out the details. Further, she noted that the Swim Club has a tremendous value in the community. Mr. Hoine felt there hadn't been enough movement, and the issues of the fees had not been resolved. He added that the Club bad agreed to pay the fees only if their conditions were met. Councilmember Williams felt that the core issue related to the availability of Lane 6, and he suggested that the matter be remanded back to the subcomunttee and that the participants continue to work toward resolution. He asked for flexibility on the use of Lane 6. Mr. Hoine asked about the Council's opinion on a charge for the Swim Club when other kids aren't charged to use City facilities. Councilmember Williams felt it appropriate to have a comprehensive plan for all sports and, until that time, nothing should be charged. Maynr Headdck indicated this is a policy issue, and negotiations have been taking place on an issue of which the Council was unaware. He expressed the opinion that, if the City charges the Swim Club, then everyone should be charged. If the Swim Club pays a fee, then it could be expected that all youth activities pay a fee as well. He supported having a comprehensive plan and, further, based on the recent financial report of the City, he saw no need to institute a fee at all. Mayor Headrick perceived that the Swim Club agreed to pay the fees out of desperation, and he recommended that the matter be tabled pending a study related to all sports in the City. If there is a need for an adjustment, then that issue could be addressed. Councilmember Munro indicated that the Parks Subcommittee had not considered fee increases for other users, and he assured the Council that no Kid Tax was on the radar screen. He was hesitant to undertake a re-evaluation of all Parks fees, as he felt they were acceptable at the current level. Councilmember Braun moved to work on the issue, but to do nothing until a new pool has been constructed. Councilmember Williams expressed a willingness to second the motion, if it could be amended to maintain the status quo to this past October on fees and pool use. Councilmember Williams, therefore, seconded the motion. Councilmember Erickson felt that the matter of pool usage should be discussed with staff, and she felt that staffhad perhaps received inconsistent direction from various individuals. Councilmember Munro asked that the Council be reminded that the Parks, Recreation & Beautification Commission had voted on the issue and supported a fee structure for the pool use. Discussion ensued with Director Cutler providing additional clarification conceming his involvement since January, as well as clarification concerning requirements for lifeguard training. Councilmember Williams then proposed that last year's contract be extended to the end of August in the form of a one-year renewal under the old terms during which time thematter could be further considered. Councilmember Williams formalized his suggestion as an amendment to the motion. Director Cutler asked that the Council give him until the Council meeting this next week to provide further information. Therefore, all prior motions, seconds, and amendments were withdrawn by the makers; and Councilmember Williams moved to table the matter to the City Council meeting of April 19, 2005. Councilmember Rogers seconded the motion. Director Cutler clarified that his focus would be placed on the scheduling aspect. Avote was taken on the motion, which carried unanimously. -6- CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING 5621 April 12, 2005 Continued Discussion 4. Continued Discussion Regarding City's 2005 Work Plan: Regarding City's 2005 Work Plan Discussion on the 2005 Work Plan was deferred to a future Council meeting. Consideration of Water 5. Consideration of Water Service Agreement: Service Agreement Consideration of the Water Service Agreement was deferred to a future Council meeting. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 p.m. Richard A. H-eadrick, Mayor Becky J. Upt~it~lerk ! - -7-