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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 12/02/1997 3604 CITY couNcIL MEETING port Angeles, Washington December 2, 1997 CALL TO ORDER - Mayor Ostrowski called the special meeting of the Port Angeles City Council to order at SPECIAL MEETING: 6:00 p.m. ROLL CALL: Members Present: Mayor Ostrowski, Councilmembers Braun, Campbell, Doyle, Hulett, McKeown, and Wiggins. Members Absent: None. Staff Present: Manager Pomeranz, Attorney Knutson, Clerk Upton, B. Becker, S. Brodhun, B. Collins, K. Godbey, S. Ilk, J. Pittis, and Y. Ziomkowski. Public Present: J. Shaw, A. Welch, D. & V. Frizzell, K. Tallmidge, N. White, and P. Tietz. Continuation of 1998 Continuation of 1998 Budget Presentation: In continuing the presentation of the 1998 Budget Presentation Budget, Manager Pomeranz addressed the Enterprise Funds. With one more payment left on the Landfill Bond, the City will realize a net savings of approximately $300,000 in interest. Manager Pomeranz noted, however, that the fund will be in need of rebuilding in order to accommodate landfill closing costs. Discussion was generated with regard to the anticipated closure at the end of the year 2000. The landfill would, however, still be able to accept demolition and construction debris subsequent to closure. The Federal Government has submitted a proposal to place a staff member at the landfill at aeost of $40,000 for mitigation purposes. Manager Pomeranz commended Councilman Campbell for the excellent job being done in representing the City at the level of the County Solid Waste Advisory Committee. Discussion'then centered around the different utility rates being charged by the City, the compahson of rates to other dries, and the fact that the City of Port Angeles rates compare very well to other cities. It was agreed that this positive information should be shared with the community, perhaps in an enclosure with the utility bills. On the matter of electric rates and the upcoming changes to the marketplace, Manager Pomeranz advised the Council that the City will need to begin marketing its services to the public. There will be a great deal of competition in the marketing of electricity, which will ultimately have a significant impact on the City's customers. A question was raised as to whether the City is realizing a savings by virtue of the merger between Public Works and City Light. Manager Pomeranz responded that, at this point in time, much of the savings is occurring because many of the administrative staff members are expanding their work assignments into a variety of areas, so there is better utilization of personnel. Continuing with the discussion of the Enterprise Funds, Manager Pomeranz commented that it was his hope to keep the Solid Waste rates consistent. Further, he discussed the transfer of funds l~om Solid Waste to the Street Fund, noting that the impact of the heavy trucks had a direct bearing on services delivered by the Street Division. The budget -1- 3605 CITY COUNCIL MEETING December 2, 1997 Continuation of 1998 for Equipment Services is smaller than most budgets in recent years, by virtue of the City's Budget Presentation purchase of used cars for the Police Department. The savings realized by this purchase (Cont'd) was more than half of what would have been spent had new vehicles been purchased. The budget for Information Services reflects a move into an expanded capability on the Internet. Also, Manager Pomeranz noted that the City had paid for the equipment and soft:ware purchased in 1990. On the matter of the Self Insurance Fund, Manager Pomeranz advised the Council that the City continues to be challenged in this area, particularly in the area of Workmen's Compensation. The City is investigating the possibility of moving its Workmen's Compensation program under that of the State of Washington. Manager Pomemnz directed attention to the Fiduciary Funds, indicating that area has been doing quite well in interest earnings. He praised the efforts of Jim Butler of the Fine Arts Center for the new direction in investing Esther Webster Trust Funds. Discussion followed as to the responsibilities of the City in maintaining the Fine Arts Center. Manager Pomeranz summarized other areas of the Budget, and indicated the Pay Classifications in the Budget reflected some minor changes and reclassifications. He listed some ofthe areas of staffcompcnsation that were addressed. Limited discussion followed. ADJOURN SPECIAL The special meeting was adjourned at 7:02 p.m. MEETING: CALL TO ORDER - Mayor Ostrowski call, ed the regular meeting of the Port Angeles City Council to order at REGULAR MEETING: 7:15 p.m. PLEDGE OF The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was led by Mayor Ostrowski. ALLEGIANCE: APPROVAL OF Councilman Braun moved to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of MINUTES: November 18, 1997. Councilman Wiggins seconded the motion, which carried unanimously. Councilman Wiggins moved to approve the minutes of the special meeting of November 21,1997. Councilmember McKeown seconded the motion, which carded unanimously. CEREMONIAL None. MATTERS/ PROCLAMATIONS: FINANCE: None. CONSENT AGENDA: Councilman Doyle moved to accept the Consent Agenda, including: 1) Payroll - November 16, 1997 - $359,063.98; and 2) Check list - November 26, 1997 - $505,458.41; and 2a) Progress Payment - School Sidewalks Project. Councilman Braun seconded the motion. Public Works Director Pittis explained that the sidewalk work at the High School had been completed, and work was now underway in the area of Franldin School. Councilman Doyle pointed out that on Page 38, the check to L. J. Doyle -2- 3606 CITY COUNCIL ~G December 2, 1997 CONSENT AGENDA: Construction for $118.00 was for 110 cubic yards of dirt. A vote was taken on the (Cont'd) motion, which carried unanimously. ITEMS FROM THE Patricia Grabow, 1319 South "K" Street, stated she had submitted an article in the packet AUDIENCE/COUNCILt regarding a Nike proposal. She had some concerns and asked to address them. Proposals STAFF TO BE have come into the Economic Development Council (EDC) fi.om Nike for 5,000 jobs, and CONSIDERED OR from Microsoft and Intel. She was concerned that the public was not made aware of these PLACED ON A proposals, lVls. Grabow felt the City, County, news media, and airport should all be given FUTURE AGENDA: the opportunity to view the proposals and £md a way to make Port Angeles the place to locate soft industry. She was concerned that business was being turned away without the City Council's knowledge, and she suggested that a public forum be developed to seek input before decisions are made for the communitY. Ms. Grabow stated she was informed that the Nike proposal was not being considered because it would bring 5,000 employees to Port Angeles and this was too many. Discussion followed, and Mayor Ostrowski stated that the CitY worked through the EDC. Councilman Wiggins stated that the decisions of the EDC were followed closely. He felt the proposals were brought to the community when the EDC felt they were valid and there was really a potential for them to happen. Councilman Wiggins stated he was not aware that the number of employees was a consideration when proposals were considered. Ms~ Grabow indicated that the general public has no knowledge of the proposals, and Councilman Wiggins stated that the EDC meetings were open to the public and the media as well. Councilman Campbell asked if Ms. Grabow wanted public hearings held on all proposals submitted to the EDC, and she responded that she wanted the community informed of the types of proposals under consideration. Neither the community nor the media was made aware of the proposals fi.om Nike, Microsoft, or Intel. Councilman Wiggins stated he would review the proposals from Nike, Microsoft and Intel with the EDC and report back to the Council as to the disposition of each proposal. Mayor Ostrowski stated the City recently hosted the Governor's Economic Summit which brought many issues to the table. Money from Rayonier will be used to recruit business to Port Angeles, and things are happening. He thanked Ms. Grabow for her interest. Councilman Doyle felt the size of the Nike proposal, 5,000 jobs, and Intel, 8,000 jobs, might not have been within the scope of possibility due to the required infrastructure. Councilman Doyle felt the public was made aware of viable proposals. Ms. Crrabow asked who made the decision as to whether or not a proposal was viable. If the public is not informed and a group of people are making the decisions for the community, then the citizens are not an informed electorate, and this concerned her. Manager Pomeranz agreed that the community, Council, and EDC needed to work together on this issue. Manager Pomeranz offered to meet with Councilman Wiggins, Ms. Grabow, and Bart Phillips of the EDC to find ways to open dialogue. Further discussion ensued, and the Council members gave their opinions on the issue. Manager Pomeranz stated City staff was proud of the public information made available, which is particularly evident in the City's budget process. He praised the readability of the City's budget document and stated it showed the public, as well as policy makers and staff, exactly how tax dollars are expended. Manager Pomeranz stated the need for public dialogue was taken very seriously, and he felt cooperation and interest should be encouraged. After further brief discussion, Mayor Ostrowski again thanked Ms. Grabow for her time and interest. -3- 3607 CITY COUNCIL MEETING December 2, 1997 PUBLIC HEARINGS: 1. Municipal Code Amendment - MCA - Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESA) Ordinance: Review and amendment of the City's ESA Ordinance (Continue to Municipal Code December 16, 1997) Amendment Mayor Ostrowski reviewed the information provided by the Planning Department and opened the public hearing at 7:37 p.m. There was no public testimony, and Councilman Hulett moved to continue the public hearing to December 16, 1997. Couneilmember McKeown seconded the motion, which carried unanimously. 1998 Budget 2. 1998 City of Port Angeles Budget Mayor Ostrowski opened the public hearing at 7:40 p.m. Manager Pomeranz offered to answer any questions, and Councilmember McKeown pointed out that Patty Hannah of United Way was also present to answer questions regarding the City's Human Services allocations through United Way. Councilmember McKeown stressed that using Council's direction, the allocations were aimed towards prevention and youth. Manager Pomeranz asked Ms. Hannah if there was a way for the community and individual recipients to be made aware that money they receive is City of Port Angeles tax dollars. Ms. Hannah stated the annual report of United Way shows the City of Port Angeles allocations. Also, the agencies receive checks which specifically say "City of Port Angeles" on them. At Councilman Hulett's request, she also explained how in-kind services are handled. Councilmember McKeown stated a YMCA scholarship had been suggested, which would be administered through the Parks Department. Councilmember McKeown will discuss this with Ms. Hannah and report back to the Council. Mayor Ostrowski thanked Ms. Hannah for her time and cooperation. There was no further testimony, and Mayor Ostrowski closed the public hearing at 7:45 p.m. Councilman Braun noted that the 1998 budget was $46 million compared to $57 million for 1997. LEGISLATION: 1. Ordinances Not Requiring Public Hearings None. 2. Resolutions not Requiring Public Hearings Self-Help Project 1. Supporting Clallam County Housing Autho~ty Self-Help Project Resolution No. 15-97 Mayor Ostrowski reviewed the information provided by the Public Works Department and read the Resolution by title, entitled RESOLUTION NO. 15-97 A RESOLUTION of the City Council of the City of Port Angeles, Washington, supporting the concept of a partnership between Kitsap County Consolidated Housing Authority and the Housing Authority of Clallam County to provide a mutual self help housing program serving the City of Port Angeles and Clallam County. Councilman Braun moved to pass the Resolution as read by title. Councilman Hulett seconded the motion. Councilman Doyle pointed out that the Housing Authority -4- 3608 CITY COUNCIL ~G December 2, 1997 LEGISLATION: Directors from Kitsap and Clallam Counties were present. Mayor Ostrowski asked them (Cont'd) to give a brief presentation. Self-Help Project Pam Tietz, Director of the Clallam County Housing Authority, introduced Andy Welch, Resolution No. 15-97 Director of self Help Housing for Kitsap Consolidated Housing Authority. Ms. Tietz stated (Cont'd) the Housing Authority has been attempting to start Self Help Housing for three years. Funding had been a problem It was found that the Kitsap program could be expanded into Clallam County, and a cooperative agreement was formed. Ms. Tietz then asked Mr. Welch to give a fuller explanation of the program. Andy Welch, Director of Self Help Housing for Kitsap Consolidated Housing Authority, stated the Kitsap County Consolidated Housing Authority has administered the self help housing program for twenty-five years, helping more than 500 families build their own hemes. Mr. Welch went on to describe funding for this program, how it operates, and the guidelines. He then responded to questions directed by Council, and clarified issues. A vote was taken on the motion, which carried unanimously. Property Tax Increase 2. Approving Property Tax Increase Resolution No. 16-97 Mayor Ostrowski reviewed the information provided by the Finance Department and read the Resolution by rifle, entitled RESOLUTION NO. 16-97 A RESOLUTION of the City Council of the City of Port Angeles, Washington, authorizing an increase in the regular property tax levy and a decrease in the special property tax levy for a net property tax reduction for 1998. Councilman Wiggins moved to pass the Resolution as read by title. Councilman Doyle seconded the motion. Mayor Ostrowski asked Finance Director Godbey to explain why property tax increases must be passed by Resolution. Director Godbey reviewed the requirements set forth in the recently passed Referendum 47, which set the stage for the resolution being presented this evening. Discussion followed, and it was noted that the first paragraph of the second page of the resolution should be amended to read "...will be 2.4 percent decrease...". Councilman Hulett suggested that tax increases be discussed and voted on before the budget is compiled to'give stav~f...~?~l,orrect figures to work with. Councilman Campbell ~ agreed with Councilman ~d stated raising taxes was a difficult process and decision. Councilman Doyle reminded the Council that if the Library bond interest was not being returned to the citizens, taxpayers would be paying higher taxes in 1998. Manager Pomeramz pointed out that the Council and staff made a series of decisions which led to keeping expenses down and minimizing the impact of lost revenues. He went on to describe some of the decisions made which led to a smaller budget figure. Further discussion followed, and concern was expressed regarding raising taxes to balance the budget. Director Godbey explained that the maximum that can be levied is $3.10 per thousand, which limits the amount of revenue that can be raised in this manner. Manager Pomeranz stated he understood the Council's concerns, and the time to discuss this type of issue would be at the retreat and goal setting session which will be held with the Council after the first of the year. A vote was taken on the motion, which carded unanimously. -5- 3609 CITY COUNCIL MEETING December 2, 1997 LEGISLATION: 3. Planning Commission Minutes/Action Items (Cont'd) Planning Commission Minutes - November 12, 1997 Councilman Hulett moved to accept the Planning Commission minutes of November 12, 1997. Councilman Braun seconded the motion, which carried unanimously. 4. Other Considerations Parking Lease Agreement a. Approve Parking Lease Agreement- City of Port Angeles/First Street Plaza LLC Manager Pomeranz described the drafting of the agreement between the City and First Street Plaza LLC. He reviewed the history of the issue and the developer's proposal. Manager Pomeranz emphasized that everyone worked together as partners, and the enthusiasm and responsiveness of the Downtown Association was appreciated. Manager Pomemnz stated City staffhas busted bureaucracy in an attempt to make this happen. The Developer is pleased, not only with the financial issues, but about Port Angeles and the Downtown Association moving so quickly to proceed with this project. Manager Pomeranz then reviewed and explained the Lease Agreement. He stated this would be a real opportunity to provide additional revenues for maintenance of parking lots and other activities of the Downtown Association. It is not the City's intent to monopolize the revenue from this lease; it is a partnership, and the money should be used for the good of the downtown area. Discussion followed, and Manager Pomeranz explained the reconfiguration of the parking lot at Councilman Hulett's request. Councilman Hulett asked if there were any provisions made in the event the Oak Street property is developed, and Manager Pomeranz responded affirmatively and explained the plan that would be used in that event. Mayor Ostrowski then invited the Downtown Association to address the Council. Terry Roth, President of the Port Angeles Downtown Association (PADA), stated the PADA is responsible for the maintenance of the parking and amenities of the downtown. Mr. Roth stated he represents more than twenty members of the Downtown Association. He described the concerns the Association had with the Lease and how those concerns were addressed by the Developer and the City. He stated the document before the Council was the best all parties could come up with in order to encourage this project to move forward with no tax money costs and burden upon the Port Angeles Downtown Association. Councilman Campbell asked what the concerns were of those who did not agree with signing a Lease Agreement, to which Mr. Roth replied. Judy Haggerty, owner of Laurel House of Beauty, has between 250 and 300 customers who use the Penney's parking lot. Her clientele is mostly elderly, and there is not enough parking in front of the building. She felt the signing of this Agreement would put her in a terrible position. Ms. Haggerty also has a gift shop on Oak Street, and she needs parking for this business also. She stated she also needs parking spaces, and if this Agreement is signed there will be no public parking left. Mr. Roth then demonstrated the reconfiguration of the parking lot which is being planned and showed Ms. Haggerty where and how much parking would be available for general purposes. Ms. Haggerty stated the amount of parking that would be available (six spaces) was not enough_ Mr. Roth pointed out that the parking lot by Family Shoe Store was also available, and Ms. Haggerty stated that was too far for her elderly customers to walk. Someone in the audience added that the Family Shoe Store lot would fill up quickly, and there would not be enough public parking available downtown. Mr. Roth offered to have Ms. Haggerty meet with the Parking Committee to address her special needs and make a recommendation. -6- 3610 C1TYCOUNCI~~G December 2, 1997 LEGISLATION: A member of the audience [later identified as Sandy Haggerty] asked if she understood (Cont'd) correctly, that only six public parking stalls would be available in the old Penney's lot to serve all the downtown merchants. Mr. Roth again stated there was the other parking lot, Parking Lease Agreement to which she again counter .esl' that the lot would fill up fast, and there would be no parking (Cont'd) available for the other downtown merchants. Ms. Haggerty reiterated her concern with the parking issue. Sandy Haggerty stated she and Judy Haggerty had just opened a new gift shop downtown to support the downtown, and now there will be no parking. There can't be a business if there is no parking. She appreciated new business coming to Port Angeles, but you cannot take away fi.om one business to give.to another. Everyone must be accommodated, and closing the Penney's lot would be detrimental. Mr. Roth felt that 109 more people working downtown who already have parking spots right across the street fi.om her business would be an addition not a subtraction. Ms. Haggerty wants the whole community to have access to the downtown, not just the people who work there. Mr. Roth stated that an ongoing survey was done on the parking lots, and the average daily' use of the parking lot under discussion has been fewer than 20 cars. Ms. Haggerty insisted on having twenty public parking spots in the lot. Councilman Braun felt that the two Haggerty's should meet with Mr. Roth and the Downtown Association Parking Committee and discuss this issue. He did not feel this was the proper forum for it. Manager Pomeranz suggested giving the developer additional spaces in the Zak's parking lot thereby leaving more public parking spaces in the Penney's lot. Ms. Haggerty thought that was a good idea. Discussion followed regarding making this change and where the additional spaces would be located, as Ms. Haggerty wanted them to be the spaces closest to her place of business. Mr. Roth and Manager Pomeranz stated a meeting would be held with the Developer in the morning to resolve this issue. John Shaw, representing Oak Street Center, 109 Oak Street, was concerned that his employees would no longer have parking available. He must fi-equently leave the building on business, and he must be assured of a parking space when he rems. He also needs parking spaces for his clients. He understood the Developer's needs, but the rest of downtown needs parking also. He stated that on several occasions his business had inquired into parking permits and he never received an answer. Don Frizzell, 4016 Old Mill Road, asked about the square footage of the building at the location and how parking requirements could be known at this point in time. He also asked about handicap parking, as it must be contiguous to the property. According to the sketch shown, the handicap parking is across the alley which is not contiguous. Mr. Frizzell then asked how many parking spaces would be required for the amount of square footage. Planning Director Collins stated sixty-three spaces would be required. Mr. Frizell asked several more questions regarding handicap parking, to which Director Collins responded. Mr. Frizell was concerned that there were still downtown property owners that were unaware of what was going on tonight. Nancy White, Vice President of the PADA, 1225 W. 19th Street, stated she had taken a call from a woman who worked at Oak Street Center and was inquiring into parking. The caller inquired about free parking and did not ask where to get a parking permit, but wanted the parking permits donated. It was discussed by the PADA Board, and it was felt they were not in a position to donate the parking permits because then they would have to be donated to all non-profit organizations. She invited Mr. Shaw to attend the monthly meetings where his concerns could be addressed. Virginia Frizell stated the State requires more parking than the City requires and then described the parking she had to provide. She stated a 24,500 sq. ft. building would need approximately 140 parking places with handicap parking at the doors. Manager Pomeranz stated that the State is requiring 104 parking spaces. Ms. Frizell stated she owns the building occupied by the Oak Street Center and they do need a lot of parking. -7- 3611 CITY COUNCIL MEETING December 2, 1997 LEGISLATION: Councilman Wiggins asked if this had to be acted on immediately, and Manager Pomeranz (Cont'd) stated the Developer would like to see this issue move forward, but if the City determines that more time is needed, then certainly that would be the prerogative of the Council. Parking Lease Agreement (Cont'd) Terry Roth felt that the parking issue for Laurel House of Beauty can be handled without a problem. He further stated that initially the PADA was sworn to a certain degree of confidentiality by the Developer. He felt the immediate needs of downtown businesses could be met Further discussion followed and Mr. Roth continued to respond to questions and provide clarification. Manager Pomeranz asked the Council to approve the Lease in its basic form, and to give the City Manager and the Downtown Association the authority to finalize the Lease. He stated if there would be any substantial changes made to the Lease, Councilmembers will informed. Councilman CamPbell moved to approve the Lease agreement as presented and the City Manager and Port Angeles Downtown Association be given the authority to negotiate the final details, providing the Downtown Association immediately take up the issue of downtown parking problems which may arise due to this new development. Councilman Wiggins seconded the motion. Following brief discussion, a vote was taken on the motion, which carried unanimously. Attomey Knutson reminded the Council that an amendment to the Agreement between the Downtown Association and City needed to be acted upon. Councilman Doyle moved to approve the amendment to the Agreement with the Downtown Association, with the modification under paragraph entitled Agreements. H. the fourth sentence ending with the word agency be the end of that paragraph. Councilman Braun seconded the motion, which carried unanimously. Break Mayor Ostrowski recessed the meeting for a break at 9:20 p.m. The meeting reconvened at 9:40 p.m. ADJOURN TO Mayor Ostrowski adjourned the meeting to Executive Session at 9:40 p.m. to discuss a EXECUTIVE SESSION: matter of personnel. RETURN TO The meeting returned to open session at 10:20 p.m. OPEN SESSION: Employment Agreement Employment Agreement with City Manager with City Manager Councilman Wiggins moved to approve the City Manager's contract with a 5% increase and a one-year extension to the present contract. The motion was seconded by Councilmember McKeown and carried unanimously. · ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 10:21 p.m. - )er Ostl~W;ki, ~ -8-