Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 11/07/2007 e CALL TO ORDER- REGULAR MEETING: ROLL CALL: PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: PUBLIC CEREMONIES / PRESENTATIONS: Recognition of Veterans Day WORK SESSION: . Port Angeles Tennis Club e 6157 CITY COUNCIL MEETING Port Angeles, Washington November 7, 2007 Mayor Rogers called the regular meeting of the Port Angeles City Council to order at 6:03 p.m. Members Present: Mayor Rogers, Deputy Mayor Williams, Councilmembers Braun, Munro, Petersen, and Wharton. Members Absent: Councilmember Headrick. Staff Present: Manager Madsen, Attorney Bloor, Clerk Upton, G. Cutler, T. Gallagher, D. McKeen, Y. Ziomkowski, L. Dunbar, T. Pierce, S. Roberds, R. Bonine, D Bellamente, and K. Dubuc. Public Present: V. & L. Embree, C. Cornell, P. McCarty, J. Schouten, D. Belgarde, R. & B. Funston, B. Kreider, J. Gormley, M. Hixson, T. Hanam, T. Grimsley, S. Frazer, C. Kidd, 1. Jones, 1. Crumb, D. Walrath, D. DiGuilio, D. Perry, M. Roos, D. Roos, L. & V. Hilken, S. Charno, A. Dueno, R. Foley, C. La, N. Beasley, P. Lamoureux, A. Greenham, M. Itti, L. Chierchetti, M. Kang, and D. Wenz. All others present in the audience failed to sign the roster. The colors were presented by members of the Port Angeles High School Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps: Mike Jensen, Kent Wilkinson, Ben Catterson, and Josie McGahan. Captain Glenn Cutler, Public Works & Utilities Director, led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. The National Anthem was sung by Teresa Pierce, Executive Communications Coordinator. 1. Proclamation in Recognition of Veterans Day: Mayor Rogers invited all veterans. to stand, after which she introduced and presented proclamations to the following: Lee Embree, Army Air Corps; Tom McKeown, United States Marine Corps - W or!d War II; Don Roberts, Army - Infantry; Don Alward, Navy; Dick Smelling, Air Force; Dan Abbott, United States Marine Corps - Viet Nam; Staff Sergeant James Thomas, Army - Iraq; and Captain Scott Pollock, United States Coast Guard Port Angeles. The Mayor then provided a synopsis of the military history of these individuals, noting that Mr. Embree is the oldest survivor of Pear! Harbor living on the Peninsula. Captain Pollock invited all in attendance to the Veterans Day ceremony to be held on Sunday, 10:30 a.m., at Coast Guard Port Angeles. 1. Port Angeles Tennis Club: Public Works & Utilities Director Cutler introduced the presentation to be made by James Schouten, a Peninsula Tennis Club member, concerning the pursuit of a donated air supported structure to be used as a field house to accommodate indoor tennis and soccer. He referenced a packet of information distributed to the Council that included pictures of air supported structures, endorsement letters submitted, as well as a proposed site plan at Erickson Park. - 1 - 6158 CITY COUNCIL MEETING November 7, 2007 WORK SESSION: (Cont'd) Port Angeles Tennis Club (Cont'd) James Schouten, 4619 Old Mill Road, distributed a larger scale drawing of the proposed site for the air supported structure, encouraging the Council to find a way to obtain the field house. The Erickson Park area is being proposed as the most beneficial to the community to the west of the Skate Park, along the alley to Francis Street. Mr. Schouten indicated the donated, portable structure is valued at $600,000, and he sought the Council's endorsement of the proposed location, as well as the application of already committed Lodging Tax funds for a field house in the amount of $50,000 per year for seven (7) years. Mr. Schouten indicated there has been a private donation of $150,000 for field house development, which can be applied to infrastructure for the field house to accommodate three indoor tennis courts. The remaining portion could be dedicated to a soccer field or whatever purpose is deemed appropriate. Mr. Schouten further discussed the proposed site and stated the desire to prepare a compelling application for the United States Tennis Association that will only be accepted until November 12th. e At the request of the Mayor, Attorney Bloor clarified the Council's prerogatives in this evening's work session. Ifthe Council so chooses, it would be appropriate to endorse the proposal. However, there is a specific legal process that must be followed as relates to the commitment of funds and to a specific site for the project. Because the processes have not been commenced on either matter, it would not be appropriate for the Council to make such commitments. Mr. Schouten sought clarification of his understanding that Lodging Tax funds had already been committed for a field house. Mayor Rogers clarified there was a proposal submitted to the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee for the funding of a field house. However, that project was never formalized or forwarded to the City Council for formal action. Mr. Schouten added that the YMCA agreed to act as the 501(c)(3) non-profit applicant to be awarded this structure; the "Y" is willing to do whatever the City wants in terms of opening and operating the facility. Steve Charno, 3153 Momoe, President of the YMCA Board of Directors, informed the Council that the YMCA became involved in this multi-use inflatable field house project, as they believe the proj ect represents a wonderful opportunity for the community to better its quality of life, make a major addition to the recreation corridor, and become a more attractive site to visitors and residents. The YMCA was asked by a number of community organizations to submit an application, so the YMCA Board passed a motion, which Mr. Charno read to the Council, agreeing to be the applicant on the RFP. This is with the understanding that the YMCA would be willing to make the field house available to the community as a multi-use facility. The "Y" would utilize the $150,000 that is earmarked for the project, but stressed the application cannot be successful without the support of the community and the City. He indicated the YMCA is committed to doing whatever it can to help the community realize this opportunity. In the ensuing discussion, Mr. Charnoresponded to a question as to ownership of the facility, indicating the YMCA would be willing to own the facility and take on the lead role, He added that the "Y" would carry a majority of the work, but not without community support. The application requires that the "Y", as the applicant, must be the owner; however, there is no impediment for the City to take ownership. Mr. Charno related that the facility has a remaining life of 18 years, and the Board has not committed to financing beyond $150,000. Discussion followed with concern being expressed as to unanticipated costs that may arise, the need for the City to attend to Civic Field and the swimming pool, and the feeling that the community would rise to the occasion to raise necessary funds for this project. Discussion also focused on utility costs, air handling equipment, monthly operating expenses, anticipated support through user fees, what happens in terms of replacement at the end ofthe life's structure, funds that may need to be set aside for replacement, the durability of the fabric of the bubble, and the need for a security fence and landscaping. Fire Marshal Dubuc responded to a question on a fire sprinkler system, indicating there is an exemption in the Fire Code for structures of this size for participant sports only. Individual members of the Council expressed support of the submission of an application; but emphasized the City could not commit to ownership, financing, or site selection. e - 2 - WORK SESSION: (Cont'd) e Port Angeles Tennis Club (Cont'd) Break LATE ITEMS TO BE PLACED ON THIS OR FUTURE AGENDAS & PUBLIC COMMENT: e CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS: CITY COUNCIL MEETING November 7, 2007 6159 City Council candidates were invited to provide input. Dan DiGuilio, 133::5 E. 8th Street, felt the project was something that could be used in the community; however, because there is little wiggle room in the City budget, he expressed hope that funding could come from an agency other than the City. Don Perry, 1735 W. 13th Street, favored the idea of a covered arena. He didn't know if Lodging Tax funds could be utilized because of restrictions, and he indicated he didn't know the annual operating costs, but he expressed willingness to look at the project. Cherie Kidd, 10 1 E. loth Street, thanked Mr. Schouten for bringing forward such a wonderful opportunity. She noted the City has limited funds, but the community has tennis fanatics. She was unwilling to commit City funds, but would support other fund- raising efforts in order to make the project happen. Deputy Mayor Williams spoke in support ofthe creation of a metropolitan parks district. Mayor Rogers proposed language for a motion, with subsequent assistance from Attorney Bloor, as follows: That the City Council endorse and support the grant application to be submitted by the YMCA, that the location will be in the jurisdiction of the City Limits, if possible, that the fiscal impacts at this time be limited for City residents, and the City Council encourages a cooperative agreement upon receipt of such a facility. Jim Jones, Clallam County Administrator, 2106 Seabreeze Place, informed the Council that the County Commissioners submitted a letter in support of the project, taking a position similar to that of the City Council. Mr. Jones read the letter from the Commissioners endorsing broad-based community support. He indicated the County has several sites that could house the facility, but they are far away from people, so the draw would be better in Erickson Park. Tournaments could be scheduled for the facility to attract more in hotel/motel funds, and because this is such a good opportunity, he felt everyone should work cooperatively to make it happen. At this time, Attorney Bloor assisted the Mayor with language for a motion, after which Councilmember Petersen moved to endorse and support the grant application to be submitted by the YMCA, that the .location will be in the jurisdiction of the City Limits, if possible, that the fiscal impacts at this time be limited for City residents, and the City Council encourages a cooperative agreement upon receipt of such a facility. Deputy Mayor Williams seconded the motion. Discussion followed on the merits of the motion and Mr. Schouten's feeling that the motion was too vague. The Mayor and Council expressed confidence that a strong application, accompanied by a well written letter of support from the Council, could prevail. Manager Madsen provided a summary of land issues and permit requirements for the project. Deputy Mayor Williams moved to call for the question. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Petersen and carried by a 2/3 majority vote, with Councilmember Wharton voting in opposition. A vote was taken on the main motion, which carried unanimously. Mayor Rogers recessed the meeting for a break at 7:25 p.m. The meeting reconvened at 7:44 p.m. None. None. - 3 - 6160 CITY COUNCIL MEETING November 7, 2007 ORDIN~NCES NOT REQUIRING PUBLIC HEARINGS: RESOLUTIONS: OTHER CONSIDERATIONS: PUBLIC HEARINGS - QUASI-JUDICIAL: PUBLIC HEARINGS - OTHER: Juan de Fuca Bluff Subdivision Ordinance No. 3304 Water Rate Adjustments Ordinance No. 3305 None. None. e None. None. 1. Juan de Fuca Bluff Subdivision: Planning Manager Roberds reviewed the Juan de Fuca Subdivision, a 24-10t development located north of Milwaukee, west of"P" Street. The subdivision is on the bluff at the end of 14th Street, west of the Walker subdivision, in the RS-ll Zone. Preliminary approval was granted in April, and all conditions have been met by the applicant. Ms. Roberds indicated some paving and sidewalk work needs to be completed in the spring, and an Assignment of Savings was submitted to the City to assure completion. Ms. Roberds complimented the developer on a job well done. Mayor Rogers had previously qualified the Councilmembers with respect to appearance of fairness issues, and she inquired as to whether any changes had occurred since consideration of the preliminary subdivision. None were stated. Mayor Rogers opened the public hearing at 7:48 p.m. There being no public testimony, the public hearing was closed at 7:48 p.m. Mayor Rogers read the Ordinance by title, entitled ORDINANCE NO. 3304 AN ORDINANCE of the City ofPort Angeles, Washington, approving the 24 unit subdivision in the RS-ll zone known as the Juan de Fuca Subdivision. Councilmember Braun moved to adopt the Ordinance as read by title, citing Conditions 1 - 2, Findings 1 - 7, and Conclusions A-D. Councilmember Munro seconded the motion. Discussion followed regarding ingress and egress on 14th Street; Chiefs McKeen and Gallagher indicated the access was acceptable for emergency services. A vote was taken on the motion, which carried unanimously. 2. Water Rate Adjustments: Power Resource Manager Dunbar used PowerPoint slides to summarize comments submitted at the last Council meeting. He provided corrections to information provided at the previous meeting, indicating these did not result in any changes to the Ordinance. Mr. Dunbar also provided a summary of the recommended rate adjustments. Mayor Rogers continued the public hearing at 7:55 p.m. There being no public testimony, the public hearing was closed at 7:55 p.m., after which Mayor Rogers conducted the second reading of the Ordinance by title, entitled ORDINANCE NO. 3305 AN ORDINANCE of the City ofPort Angeles, Washington, revising water utility rates by amending Chapter 13.44 of the Port Angeles Municipal Code. e Councilmember Wharton moved to adopt the Ordinance as read by title. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Petersen and carried unanimously. - 4 - City Revenue Sources / 2008 Budget / Property Tax Ordinance e Break t. .- \ ~':....\' l FINANCE: Fine Arts Center Marketing/Development Director Contract e CITY COUNCIL MEETING November 7,2007. 6161 3. City Revenue Sources /2008 Budget and Property Tax Ordinance: Finance Director Ziomkowski, with the use of PowerPoint slides, introduced the 2008 Budget, describing in detail the requirements for a budget, the mission of the budget process, the budget calendar, and the different fund types. She presented information on the facts and myths of property taxes, providing an in-depth explanation of property tax levies, limitations on property taxes, methodology of property tax calculations, and the fact that the City's levy for 2008 will be the lowest rate in over 20 years. Director Ziomkowski then presented the revenue projections for 2008, discussing the projected revenues for all of the different City funds. Discussion followed, and Director Ziomkowski answered questions posed by the Council. Mayor Rogers opened the public hearing at 9:20 p.m. Paul Lamoureux, 602 Whidby, commended the Council for the work session conducted earlier in the evening. With regard to the budget, he felt there was a need to fund repairs to Peabody Street. Cherie Kidd, 101 E. 10th Street, commented that economic development is in the forefront, and previous mention had been made regarding the possible cancellation ofthe relationship with the Economic Development Council. She suggested that the relationship be continued. There being no further testimony, Mayor Rogers continued the public hearing to November 20, 2007, stating this constitutes the first reading of the Ordinances, as set forth below: ORDINANCE NO. AN ORDINANCE of the City ofPort Angeles, Washington, authorizing a 1 %, or $38,092, over the highest lawful levy for 2007, increase in the regular property tax levy plus any increase resulting from new construction, annexation, refunds made, and other specified increases in assessed valuation determining and fixing the amount to be raised by ad valorem taxes for the fiscal year 2008, and directing the City Clerk to certify said amount to the Board of Clallam County Commissioners. ORDINANCE NO. AN ORDINANCE of the City of Port Angeles, Washington, amending Chapter 3.70 of the Port Angeles Municipal Code relating to fees. ..t,.. ..1__ Mayor Rogers recessed the meeting for a break-at 9:26 p.m. The meeting reconvened at <.;9:130 p.m. " . . 1. Fine Arts Center Marketing / Development Director Contract: Director Cutler presented information on the completion of the first year ofthe Marketing Development Director contract for the Fine Arts Center. Recreation Deputy Director Bonine advised the Council this is a contract on its first of two one-year renewals. The trustees of the Webster Trust Fund and the Friends of the Fine Arts Center jointly completed the development of a Business Plan, and one of the elements was to contract for a MarketingiDevelopment Director. The position is essentially self-funding, and no additional General Fund support is being requested. Rob Sorensen, 321 S. Ennis Street, MarketingiDevelopment Director, provided a summary to the Council as to his duties as Marketing Director in terms of fund raising and - 5 - 6162 CITY COUNCIL MEETING November 7,2007 FINANCE: (Cont'd) Fine Arts Center MarketinglDevelopment Director Contract (Cont'd) Move Finance Items to Consent Agenda CONSENT AGENDA: INFORMATION: EXECUTIVE SESSION: RETURN TO OPEN SESSION: ADJOURNMENT: increasing the awareness and visibility of the Fine Arts Center. He has pursued member sponsorships, new events, fund raising, and further development of existing funds. Mr. Sorensen noted there is a great feeling of momentum at the Fine Arts Center, and everyone is looking forward to taking this endeavor to the next level. e It was noted that the Parks & Recreation Subcommittee forwarded a recommendation of approval ofthe contract. Councilmember Munro moved to extend and authorize the Mayor to sign a personal services contract with Robert A. Sorensen of Port Angeles, W A, to serve as the Marketing / Development Director for the Fine Arts Center (FAC), to commence on January 1, 2008, and continue through December 31, 2008, in a total amount not to exceed $41,400. Councilmember Petersen seconded the motion, which carried unanimously. 2. Move Finance Items to Consent Agenda: Because of the late hour, Deputy Mayor Williams moved to place the following Finance Agenda items on the Consent Agenda: Energy Smart Grocer Agreement, Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) Markdown Promotion, and Equipment Purchase - Electric Transformers for Elwha Water Facilities. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Munro and carried unanimously. Councilmember Braun moved to accept the Consent Agenda, to include: 1.) City Council Minutes dated October 9, 12, 16 and 23, 2007; 2.) Expenditure Approval List from 10/6 to 10/26/2007 - $3,223,520.47; 3.) Vehicle & Equipment Surplus; 4.) Appoint City Representative to Clallam County Fair Board; 5.) Energy Smart Grocer Agreement; 6.) Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) Markdown Promotion; and 7.) Equipment Purchase - Electric Transformers for Elwha Water Facilities. The motion was seconded by Deputy Mayor Williams and carried unanimously. None. Based on input from Attorney Bloor, Mayor Rogers announced the need for an Executive Session for approximately 15 minutes under the authority of RCW 42.30.110(l)(i), potential litigation, with no action to follow. The Executive Session convened at 9:51 p.m. The Executive Session concluded at 10:06 p.m., and the Council convened in regular open session. No action was taken. The meeting was adjourned at 10:06 p.m. ,^o~J~ Becky J. Up , Cl Clerk . e - 6 -