Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 10/01/2002 4769 CITY COUNCIL MEETING Port Angeles, Washington October 1, 2002 CALL TO ORDER - Mayor Wiggins called the regular meeting of the Port Angeles City Council to order at REGULAR MEETING: 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, B. Collins, M. Connelly, G. Cutler, D. McKeen, T. Riepe, Y. Ziomkowski, K. Dubuc, G. Kenworthy, M. Sanders, T. Smith, and J. Hall. Public Present: L. Lee, T. Price, R. Anderson, S. Parr, P. Lamoureux, and L. Beil. PLEDGE OF The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was led by Councilman Williams. ALLEGIANCE: PUBLIC CEREMONIES, 1. Beautification Award: Susan Parr Travel PRESENTATIONS AND PROCLAMATIONS: Mayor Wiggins read the Beautification Award and presented it to Susan Parr of Susan Parr Travel. Beautification Award - Susan Parr Travel "Try Transit Week" 2. "Try Transit Week" Proclamation - October 13 - 19, 2002 Proclamation Mayor Wiggins read the proclamation declaring October 13 - 19, 2002, "Try Transit Week", which was then presented to Councilman Williams as representative of the Clallam Transit Board. LATE ITEMS TO BE Councilman Williams asked that a letter be sent regarding the shipping lockout, which PLACED ON THIS OR was added as Agenda Item I. 1. Mayor Wiggins asked that a proposed letter to Westport FUTURE AGENDAS: be added as Agenda Item 1.2. WORK SESSION: Referendum 51 (HM2969) Statewide Transportation Improvement: Public Works & Utilities Director Cutler summarized Referendum 51 wherein $7.7 Billion in resources Referendum 51 (HB2969) could be generated for transportation and transit projects over the next ten years. Tax Statewide Transportation on gasoline and special fuels would be raised by five cents/gallon on January 1, 2003, Improvement and four cents/gallon on January 1, 2004. A one percent sales tax surcharge would be Resolution No. 13-02 levied on motor vehicle sales as of April 1, 2003, and a 30 percent surcharge on gross weight fees on tracks over 10,000 would be phased in over two years. Director Cutler also reviewed the general obligation bonds that would be instituted for highway and ferry projects, as well as transportation projects to include transit, rail, and passenger- only ferries. There are two projects included in the funding package that would directly -1- CITY COUNCIL MEETING 4770 October 1, 2002 WORK SESSION: impact the Peninsula: one is a widening project on US 101 in the Gardiner area and the (Cont'd) other is also a US 101widening project in the Blyn area. Director Cutler indicated that Referendum 51 would provide additional funding in the form of loans and grant Referendum 51 (HB2969) programs. Approximately $48,000 of the funds derived would be returned to the City Statewide Transportation for the street program; however, Director Cutler was unable to ascertain how much Improvement would be paid by the citizens of the area. Resolution No. 13-02 (Cont'd) Director Cutler reviewed the information included in the packet and noted that speakers in favor of and opposition to passage of the Referendum had been invited to speak, but they were unable to attend. At this time, Mayor Wiggins invited public comment. Paul Lamoureux, 602 Whidby, expressed disappointment that individuals representing the opposing views were unable to attend, as he felt it would leave some questions unanswered. Noting the mount of information in the Council packet on this particular issue, Mr. Lamoureux lamented the fact that the recent sales tax issue didn't generate a similar amount of information. Nevertheless, he posed questions to the Council, such as whether the two-year phased tax would be forever, whether the motor vehicle tax surcharge would be forever, and whether the surcharge on the gross weight of tracks would be forever. Mr. Lamoureux noted this is intended to be a ten-year funding program, but it is unclear as to its longevity. He also inquired as to the intended disposition of the general obligation bonds, and he urged the Council to not take action pending the receipt of answers to these questions. Discussion was generated pertinent to the questions posed by Mr. Lamoureux, and Manager Quirm indicated that a sunset date had not been established. It would appear, therefore, that legislative action would be required to terminate the tax. Mr. Lamoureux made additional comments relative to the Hurricane Ridge Public Development Authority and the desire to open a chair lift at the ski area. Recalling previous experiences of skiing in the Deer Park area, he expressed the hope that keeping the road to Hurricane Ridge open will be an established priority. Jack Pittis, 127 E. Park, spoke in favor of Referendum 51. Having three children and four grandchildren, Mr. Pittis felt it important to provide transportation for the next generation. Although this funding package is not the total answer, he felt it to be a part of the solution to current transportation issues. Stressing the importance of the State's economy, Mr. Pittis felt the funding to be generated could go a long way in furthering transportation projects. A variety of projects would be funded, and different forms of funds would then be made available locally. He concluded his comments by emphasizing the need to stop "bleeding" on the roads and infrastructure. Tim Smith, Economic Development Director, echoed Mr. Pittis' comments, adding it is important to take a decisive step to solve the transportation problems in the State. To do otherwise would have a negative impact on the economy, and he urged the Council to support Referendum 5 I. Roland Anderson, 1527 W. 5th, provided a historical perspective to the issue in that he recalled an increase in the gas tax many years ago that ultimately funded the interstate highway system. Councilmember Rogers indicated that, if Referendum 51 is not passed, then federal funding cannot be forthcoming to the State. Further, every state needs a healthy metropolitan center which, in Washington, is King County. Senator Murray has expressed concern in that funding is available for Washington State, but passage of the referendum is essential. In addition, Councilmember Rogers related that Representative Lynn Kessler has said that failure to pass the referendum would result in furthering the economic slump for an additional six years. -2- CITY COUNCIL MEETING October 1, 2002 4771 WORK SESSION: Councilman Williams, referencing the recent sales tax increase for the benefit of (Cont'd) Clallam Transit, reminded everyone that the Transit Board had made a commitment at the time the tax increase was instituted. The Board had said that, if that particular tax Referendum 51 (HB2969) funding is replaced in another form, then the sales tax would be repealed. He noted the Statewide Transportation tax increase was requested at that time because of the passage ofi-695, and the passage Improvement of Referendum 51 would result in added funding to the Transit in the approximate Resolution No. 13-02 amount of $850,000. Councilman Williams added that he had every intention of (Cont'd) honoring the original commitment. Councilman Headrick felt there is a definite need to improve the infrastructure, as it is in the State's best interest to have good roads. He felt it would be foolish to not approve the referendum. Councilman Braun agreed, noting the public must realize what will happen to the infrastructure if the referendum were to fat. Brief discussion followed, and Mayor Wiggins read the Resolution by title, entitled RESOLUTION NO. 13-02 A RESOLUTION of the City Council of the City of Port Angeles, Washington, supporting Referendum 51, which would provide for financing transportation improvements through new revenue from transportation taxes and fees and which is to be voted on at the November 5, 2002 general election. Councilmember Rogers moved to pass the Resolution as read by title. The motion was seconded by Councilman Williams and carried unanimously. FINANCE: Contract Award for Eastern Corridor Entryway, Project 20-31 Contract Award for Director Cutler explained that this project has resulted in the leveraging of City and Eastern Corridor grant funding in order to proceed with the first phase of improvements to the eastern Entryway entrance to the City which will involve concrete sidewalks, driveways, street trees, street light wiring improvements, and bike lane installation. The specific area of work involves Front Street between Penn and Ennis Streets. He reviewed the fact that only one bid was submitted, and it was higher than was anticipated, so Director Cutler indicated the recommendation was to award the contract for the base bid only. Brief discussion followed concerning the resolution of the design in the vicinity of the Ford dealership, project funding, chirpers and ADA requirements, as well as the timeliness for planting the street trees. Councilmember Rogers thanked staff for working so diligently with the businesses on this project. Councilman Campbell moved to 1) award the contract for the Eastern Corridor Entryway, Project No. 20-31, to Lakeside Industries of Port Angeles; 2) authorize the Mayor to sign the contract in the amount of $269,220.50; 3) reallocate $25,000 to the project from the Capital Improvement Funds Project PK02-02, William Shore Memorial Pool Renovation; and 4) authorize the utilization of $45,000 from the electric utility reserves to permit execution of the project. The motion was seconded by Councilman Braun. Councilman Williams inquired as to whether the State Department of Transportation had any plans to also work on Front Street, and Deputy Director Kenworthy and Director Cutler assured Council that this project should not await pending work at the State level. If and when the State proceeds with a future overlay project, every effort will be made to assure the replacement of center lines and markings to their original condition. A vote was taken on the motion, which carried unanimously. CONSENT AGENDA: Councilmembers Campbell and Williams indicated they would be abstaining from the vote relative to approval of the September 23, 2002, Council minutes, as they were -3- CITY COUNCIL MEETING 4772 October 1, 2002 CONSENT AGENDA: absent from the meeting. Councilman Braun moved to accept the Consent Agenda, (Cont'd) to include: 1.) City Council minutes of September 17, 2002, regular meeting and September 23, 2002, special meeting; 2.) Check Register - September 20, 2002 - $713,856.78; 3.) Electronic Payments - September 20, 2002 - $64,376.00; 4.) Amendment No. 2 to Consultant Agreement, Port Angeles International Gateway Transportation Center; and 5.) Request for a public display of fireworks for October 4, 2002 High School Homecoming. Councilman Headrick seconded the motion. Following questions on the Check Register, as well as information provided by Chief McKeen on the Homecoming fireworks display, a vote was taken on the motion, which carried 4-0, with Councilmembers Campbell and Williams abstaining. CITY COUNCIL Councilman Headrick reported that he attended the opening of the Rayonier portion of COMMITTEE the Trail, as representative of the City Council. Councilman Braun toured Highland REPORTS: Courte and was especially impressed with the facility. He directed attention to the Clallam Transit commitment to repeal the most recent sales tax increase should Referendum 51 pass. Councilman Braun reviewed Transit's consideration of route changes and the potential impact on senior citizens. Councilmember Rogers expressed appreciation for the support given at the public hearing on the Westport expansion, as she felt it important for the community to provide this type of support in as many instances as possible. Councilmember Rogers delineated various meetings attended and mentioned a name change for the Downtown Forward Executive Committee to Port,4ngeles Forward. She has participated in City budget meetings, and she indicated staff is working very hard to deal with the current budget situation. Councilman Williams reviewed his recent attendance at the American Public Transportation Association meeting in Las Vegas. Councilman Campbell recently visited Japan, and he traveled to Mutsu City. Mayor Wiggins also toured the Highland Courte facility, and he inquired as to the status of previously discussed problems specific to Highland Courte. Community Development Director Collins provided a status report, noting that a six-month report had been submitted as required. Nothing appeared to be out of order in this regard. Mayor Wiggins continued that he took a field trip to the west end on the matter of forestry practices. Mayor Wiggins reported that he also met with one of the principals of Westport; Port Angeles is still being considered for the company's expansion. At this time, Mayor Wiggins introduced the letter he is proposing be sent to Westport. The Council wholeheartedly supported the letter and, by consensus, authorized the Mayor to sign the letter as presented. Break Mayor Wiggins recessed the meeting for a break at 7:25 p.m. The meeting reconvened at 7:35 p.m. ORDINANCES NOT 1. Municipal Code,4mendments - MCA O l-02B - City of Port,4ngeles - Proposed REQUIRING PUBLIC Revisions to Zoning Ordinance HEARINGS: Community Development Director Collins briefly reviewed the changes made to the Municipal Code proposed Ordinance as a follow-up to input received at the last Council meeting. Amendments - Proposed Following brief discussion, Mayor Wiggins read the Ordinance by title, entitled Revisions to Zoning Ordinance ORDINANCE NO. 3123 Ordinance No. 3123 AN ORDINANCE of the City of Port Angeles, Washington, amending the City's Zoning Code by adding to the purposes of the Zoning Code, by identifying what development should take place in each zone to accomplish the desired urban design of the City and to reduce conflicts -4- CITY COUNCIL MEETING October 1, 2002 4773 Municipal Code between adjacent land uses, and by adding definitions for special uses, Amendments - Proposed and amending Ordinance 1709 as amended and Title 17 of the Port Revisions to Zoning Angeles Municipal Code. Ordinance Ordinance No. 3123 Councilman Braun moved to adopt the Ordinance as read by title, citing Findings (Cont'd) 1 - 8 and Conclusions 1 - 5, as set forth in Exhibit "A", which is attached to and becomes a part of these minutes. The motion was seconded by Councilman Headrick and carried unanimously. Proposed Revisions to 2. Proposed Revisions to Fire Alarm Ordinance Fire Alarm Ordinance Ordinance No. 3124 Fire ChiefMcKeen introduced the matter of a revised Fire Alarm Ordinance, noting that current regulations were adopted almost twenty years ago. There have been significant changes in technology over the years, and many sections of the current Ordinance can be considered obsolete. A rewrite of this Ordinance has involved an effort of over a year, as the Fire Department has sought input from other municipalities as well as the local community. Fire Marshal Dubuc, with the use of a PowerPoint presentation, submitted information to the Council relative to the proposed changes. He noted the importance of adopting local fire alarm and sprinkler ordinances, as the national codes tend to be "one size fits all" in nature. The Ordinance is an effort to provide a balance between the fire and life safety expectations of the community within the available firefighting resources of the City. Fire Marshal Dubuc defmed the specific elements of the proposed Ordinance, emphasizing the elimination of some fire alarm provisions when a fire sprinkler system is provided. Fire alarm permits canbe obtained at City Hall via the "one stop shopping" concept, and no fees will be charged for systems that are installed but not required. He pointed out that the most visible change to the Fire Alarm Ordinance is a reduction of the square footage requirement for fire alarm systems, which will provide developers with additional fire protection options that still meet the fire and life safety goals. Fire Marshal Dubuc summarized the updated requirements specifically related to the Knox Box, the fact that technicians will be held responsible for false alarms transmitted during system service, as well as the prohibition of system resets. In the discussion that followed, Councilmembers spoke in favor of the changes, as well as the thorough approach to the Ordinance rewrite. Mayor Wiggins read the Ordinance by title, entitled ORDINANCE NO. 3124 AN ORDINANCE of the City of Port Angeles updating the City's fire alarm regulations to reflect changes in technology and code requirements, reducing the size of buildings for which fire alarm systems are required from 7500 square feet to 6250 square feet, and repealing Ordinance 2301 and Chapter 14.22 of the Port Angeles Municipal Code. Councilman Braun moved to adopt the Ordinance as read by title. The motion was seconded by Councilman Williams and carried unanimously. Port Angeles Municipal 3. Consideration of Port Angeles Municipal Code Arnendrnent Regarding Waiver Code Amendment of Fees Regarding Waiver of Fees Ordinance No. 3125 Economic Development Director Smith presented the proposal to amend the Port Angeles Municipal Code to allow for the waiver of City fees in the interest of economic development. Director Smith reviewed the language of the current regulations which allow for the waiver of fees under certain conditions that are not presently associated with economic development, and he cited the importance of providing incentives to -5- CITY COUNCIL MEETING 4774 October 1, 2002 Port Angeles Municipal companies such as Westport in order to foster business growth and development in the Code Amendment community. Director Smith distributed an informational sheet delineating the potential Regarding Waiver of Fees fees to be waived specific to the Westport project; the range could be from $36,900 to Ordinance No. 3125 $56,400. He proposed that the City Manager be given the authority to negotiate the (Cont'd) waiver of fees on a case-by-case basis. Mayor Wiggins inquired as to whether a decision to waive fees of this nature should be at the discretion of the City Council, but it was pointed out that the waiver of fees would only be a cost to the City at a time when a gain is anticipated. Councilmember Rogers stated it is difficult to be in business in Washington, and she felt it important to have something to offer to those businesses that would ultimately provide substantial benefit to the community. The Council was assured that Manager Quinn would work closely with the Council in establishing guidelines for fee waivers. After further brief discussion, Mayor Wiggins read the Ordinance by title, entitled ORDINANCE NO. 3125 AN ORDINANCE of the City of Port Angeles, Washington, granting the City Manager authority to waive permit fees for certain economic development projects and activities and amending Ordinance 2932 as amended and Chapter 3.70 of the Port Angeles Municipal Code. Councilman Williams moved to adopt the Ordinance as read by title. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Rogers. Councilman Campbell emphasized the need to establish clear guidelines and criteria on the types of opportunities that would prevail in order for this waiver to be granted. A vote was taken on the motion, which carried unanimously. Manager Quinn indicated the guidelines would be addressed by the Community and Economic Development Committee. At this time, Mayor Wiggins acknowledged the presence of Leonard Beil, Port Commissioner. Commissioner Beil, 3721 Park Knoll, responded to Mayor Wiggins' invitation by providing an update on the possibility of the State Department of Transportation coming to Port Angeles to create a graving yard for the construction of anchors and pontoons for the Hood Canal Bridge construction. Commissioner Bell indicated the amount of acreage needed has changed somewhat, but the State is still giving Port Angeles serious consideration. Mr. Beil extended kudos to Councilman Williams for bringing this idea to the forefront. INFORMATION: Because of the upcoming AWC meeting, Manager Quinn indicated the Real Estate Committee meeting has been moved to Monday, October 7th. Fire ChiefMcKeen took the opportunity to express appreciation to Commissioner Bell for his efforts to paint fire hydrants with the help of community service workers. Finance Director Ziomkowski provided a brief update on the HTE implementation project. Councilmember Rogers offered kudos to the Police Department for its recent accreditation. Members of the Council directed attention to various aspects of the Project Status Report, asking for further information on specific entries in the report. Councilman Williams then asked that the Council consider sending a letter to State and Federal leadership on the matter of the lockout of dock workers along the west coast. In that there is a projected loss orS 1 billion per day because of the lockout, he felt there needs to be pressure mounted to urge immediate resolution. The Council agreed and asked that Manager Quinn write such a letter which, upon further reflection, might be received sooner if submitted in the form of an e-mail. EXECUTIVE SESSION: The meeting was adjourned to Executive Session at 8:30 p.m. to discuss potential litigation for less than 15 minutes. -6- CITY COUNCIL MEETING October 1, 2002 4775 RETURN TO OPEN The meeting returned to Open Session at 8:40 p.m. SESSION: ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 8:40 p.m. ........ Glenn Wiggins, Mayo'"r" B'-~ecky J. ~Jp~TC~ Clerk ?- -7- Exhibit "A" Findings and Conclusions for Approval of MCA 01-02B: 4776 Findings: Based on the information provided in the Department of Community Development Staff Reports in support of MCA 01-02B dated December 12, 2001, January 30, 2002, February 27, 2002, March 13, 2002, March 27, 2002, April 10, 2002, April 24, 2002, May 8, 2002, May 22, 2002, June 17, 2002, July 16, 2002, August 20, 2002, August 27, 2002, September 17, 2002, and October 1, 2002, including all information in the public record file, comments and testimony presented during the public hearings, the discussion and deliberation, the City of Port Angeles City Council hereby finds that: 1. Based on the deliberations and recommendations of the Citizen Code Advisory Committee, the City of Port Angeles proposed Municipal Code Amendments to change several sections of the Port Angeles Municipal Code, including Titles 14 Building and Construction, 16 Subdivisions, and 17 Zoning. 2. In 2001, the City Council established a Citizen Code Advisory Committee (CCAC) to review the language in all the City's land use, environmental, and construction codes. This committee was comprised of representatives of the building, professional, and environmental communities and met twice a month for four months. Their recommended amendments include suggested revisions to the Port Angeles Municipal Code, specifically Titles 14 (Building and Construction), 16 (Subdivisions), and 17 (Zoning). 3. Corrections are proposed throughout the Municipal Code which reflect changes in department name from "Building Division" or "Planning Department" to "Department of Community Development," and in staff titles from "Planning Director" to "Community Development Director," and "Public Works Director to Director of Public Works and Utilities," and "Building Inspector" to either "Building Official" or "Community Development Director" where appropriate. 4. Per Section 17.96.100 Amendments, any amendments adopted by the City Council may be modified from the form in which they were advertised within the limits necessary to relate properly such amendment or amendments to the Zoning Regulations. Final action on such modifications shall be subject to review and report of the Planning Commission prior to final passage by the City Council. 5. The entire City Comprehensive Plan was reviewed with regards to the proposed municipal code amendments, and the most relevant goals, policies, and objectives included, but were not limited to, Growth Management Element Policy A(1)(a, c, d, f, g, k, and 1), Land Use Element Goal A, Policies A. 1 and A.2, Objective A. 1, Goal B, Goal D, Policy D. 1, Goal E, Policies E.3 and E.5-E.8, Goal F, Policies F.1 and F.2, Goal H, Transportation Element Policies A.3 and A.6, Goal B, Policies B.1 and B.10-19, Objectives B.1-B.3, Utilities and Public Services Element Policy A. 1, Goal C, Policies C.2-C.6, Goal D, Policies D.1, D.6-10, Housing Element Goal A, Policies A.1 and A.5, Conservation Element Goal A, Policies A.1-A.3, Policies B.3-B.6, B.21, Objectives B.3, Capital Facilities Element Goal A, Policies A. 1-A.4, A.7, A.9-A.13, Goal B, Policies B.1-B.7, Objective B.1, Goal C, Policies C.1-C.5, Economic Development Element Goal A, Policies A. 1, A.4, A.6, Goal B, Policies B. 1 and B.5. 6. A Determination of Non-Significance No. 982 was issued for the proposed municipal code amendments on May 23, 2002. 4777 7. The City Planning Commission conducted public hearings on March 13, April 10, May 8, and May 22, 2002, with regard to the proposed Municipal Code Amendments and recommended that the City Council approve certain amendments to the Municipal Code following the May 22, 2002, public hearing. 8. The City Council conducted public hearings on June 17, July 16, and August 20, 2002, with regard to the proposed Municipal Code Amendments. Following the City Council's August 20, 2002, Council closed the public hearing and continued deliberation of the matter. Conclusions: Based on the information provided in the Department of Community Development Staff Reports in support of MCA 01-02B dated December 12, 2001, January 30, 2002, February 27, 2002, March 13, 2002, March 27, 2002, April 10, 2002, April 24, 2002, May 8, 2002, May 22, 2002, June 17, 2002, July 16, 2002, August 20, 2002, August 27, 2002, September 17, 2002, and October 1, 2002, including all information in the public record file, comments and testimony presented during the public hearings, the discussion and deliberation, the City of Port Angeles City Council hereby finds that: I. The proposed amendments are intended to refine wording, correct obvious errors, clarify existing procedures and requirements, and help to make the code language easier to comply with and to understand. 2. The municipal code amendments as proposed are consistent with the goals and policies of the City's Comprehensive Plan including, but not limited to, Growth Management Element Policy A(1)(a, c, d, f, g, k, and 1), Land Use Element Goal A, Policies A.1 and A.2, Objective A.1, Goal B, Goal D, Policy D.1, Goal E, Policies E.3 and E.5-E.8, Goal F, Policies F. 1 and F.2, Goal H, Transportation Element Policies A.3 and A.6, Goal B, Policies B. 1 and B.10-19, Objectives B.1-B.3, Utilities and Public Services Element Policy A. 1, Goal C, Policies C.2-C.6, Goal D, Policies D. 1, D.6-10, Housing Element Goal A, Policies A. 1 and A.5, Conservation Element Goal A, Policies A. 1-A.3, Policies B.3-B.6, B.21, Objectives B.3, Capital Facilities Element Goal A, Policies A. 1-A.4, A.7, A.9-A. 13, Goal B, Policies B. 1-B.7, Objective B. 1, Goal C, Policies C. 1-C.5, Economic Development Element Goal A, Policies A. 1, A.4, A.6, Goal B, Policies B. 1 and B.5. 3. The amendments will result in improved public service relating to permit processing and regulation clarification, making the Municipal Code requirements easier for the general public to read and understand. 4. The proposed municipal code amendments help to describe the desired urban design of the City of Port Angeles and how development regulations implement the Comprehensive Plan. 5. The proposed municipal code amendments are in the public interest. Adopted by the Port Angeles City Council at its meeting of October 1, 2002. Glenn Wiggins, Mayor Becky J.'Ul~n, (3~ty Clerk/ - ~ ........................ 'I' ............... TF[ '