HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 08/13/1996 (2) 3345
CITY cOuNCIL MEETING
Port 'Angeles, Washington
August 19, 1996
CALL TO ORDER - An informal breakfast meeting was held at 7:30 a.m. at Haguewood's with the City
SPECIAL MEETING: Council members and Congressman Norm Dicks.
ROLL CALL: Members Present: Mayor Ostrowski, Councilmembers Braun, Campbell,
Doyle, Hulett, and McKeown.
Members Absent: Councilman Wiggins.
Staff Present: Manager Pomeranz, Attorney Knutson, Clerk Upton, B.
Becker, B. Collins, K. Godbey, J. Pittis, B. Titus, and T.
Smith.
Guests Present: Congressman Norm Dicks and Staff Member Andrew
Monroe.
Meeting with An informal discussion during breakfast involved issues relating to the economic
Congressman Norm Dicks health of Port Angeles. Topics involved the tour ship planning to visit Port Angeles,
Senator Slade Gorton's proposed legislation to turn Elwha Dam removal over to the
State, and funds available for fish/watershed restoration.
Mayor Ostrowski then asked that everyone present introduce themselves, after which
Manager Pomeranz set the stage for an 8:00 a.m. meeting to be held with those
individuals involved in revitalization of the downtown area through the Downtown
Forward project. Manager Pomeranz cited Congressman Dicks' support by the
award of a planning grant to the City for the revitalization effort. Many citizens and
public agencies have been involved in the project, one that is especially timely and
important to the future of the City. Noting Congressman Dicks' support of the
Waterfront Trail, Manager Pomeranz reviewed plans to replace and upgrade
downtown infrastructure, to include watermains and sidewalks. The neexl, however,
is much greater than this, and Manager Pomeranz indicated work has been underway
on the transportation component as well.
Manager Pomeranz reviewed grant funding received thus far, a great deal of which
was received because of assistance from Congressman Dicks. He expressed the need
for the public sector to make something happen in order to secure support and
involvement from the private sector. He summarized the various aspects of the
Downtown Forward project, including the proposed convention center and the Valley
Creek estuary. Grants Administrator Smith expanded on the Downtown Forward
project, and Congressman Dicks assured the City Council that he would try to be of
assistance.
In reviewing pertinent economic issues relating to the area, Manager Pomeranz
advised Congressman Dicks of the impact of reducing electrical rates. Congressman
Dicks felt it important that electric utilities plan long term, as it is essential that BPA
downsize in order to cut costs. Congressman Dicks assured the Council that he
understood the difficulties being faced, and he and his staff would help whenever
possible.
Brief discussion ensued concerning the Marine Sanctuary, and Congressman Dicks
indicated the Governor will have a great deal of input as to what is ultimately
decided. However, Congressman Dicks stated he was working hard to protect the
shipping lanes and to avoid too many restrictions.
The meeting was adjourned to a larger conference room, at which time the City
Council was joined by interested citizens and other civic and governmental leaders.
Manager Pomeranz indicated the City has been confronted with a variety of
challenges over the years and, as a consequence, has been working closely with the
Downtown Forward Committee and other entities to set a positive direction for the
downtown, as it is the heart and soul of Port Angeles. Every effort must be made
to assure that it not only survives, but that it prospors.
For the benefit of the additional attendees, Manager Pomeranz reiterated some of the
economic challenges, the need for downtown revitalization, anal the quest for support
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3346 :
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
August 19, 1996
Meeting with from Congressman Dicks in order to accomplish the goals set by the Downtown
Congressman Norm Dicks Forward project. Public Works Director Pittis reviewed the scope and details
(Cont'd) encompassing the Downtown Forward project, and Congressman Dicks urged
everyone to work together toward consensus and then pursue the various funding
options in order to proceed.
Members of the audience addressed comments and concerns to Congressman 'Dicks.
Pete Schroeder discussed the Salmon Conference, Terry Roth reviewed concerns
about surcharges being placed on visitors to the National Park, and Joe Melton
expanded on negative impacts because of the surcharge. Congressman Dicks
~ ...... ~,;~'~ '-':*~- °~'o ~urzhargz bzing Flacc. A ~- ~' .... but he supported the
surcharge tbr individuals, as revenue generated serves to offset budget limitations.
In addition, Terry Roth sought Congressman Dicks' assistance in the proposed
acquisition of the USS Marvin Shields. After hearing Mr. Roth's review of the
desired acquisition, Congressman Dicks responded his office was looking into the
matter and will be having discussions with the Navy. However, he offered caution
in that it will be necessary to have sufficient funds to support such a project on an
on-going basis. The Navy will want to see a financial plan and a business plan to
assure there is sufficient financial support to maintain the vessel.
Manager Pomeranz thanked Congressman Dicks for his past and present assistance;
it is our hope to see some major accomplishments in the near future.
ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 8'~ a/..ml ~ ~N
City Clerk q ~ /"' -"~gt y
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