CITY OF SHORELINE
SHORELINE CITY COUNCIL
Monday, June 8, 2015 Conference Room 303 - Shoreline City Hall
5:45 p.m. 17500 Midvale Avenue North
PRESENT:
Mayor Winstead, Deputy Mayor Eggen, Councilmembers
McGlashan, and Hall
ABSENT: Councilmembers McConnell, Salomon, and Roberts
STAFF: Debbie Tarry, City Manager; John Norris, Assistant City Manager; Scott MacColl, Intergovernmental Relations Manager; Jessica Simulcik Smith, City Clerk
GUESTS: Rod Dembowski, King County Councilmember; Kristina Logsdon, Chief of Staff
At 5:54 p.m. the meeting was called to order by Mayor Winstead, who presided. She noted that Councilmembers McConnell and Salomon were excused for personal reasons and Councilmember Roberts was expected to arrive late. She welcomed King County Councilmember Rod Dembowski and his Chief of Staff Kristina Logsdon to the meeting.
Ms. Tarry acknowledged Councilmember Dembowski’s efforts to secure funding for the Ronald Commons project which was essential to the project moving forward. Councilmember Dembowski thanked Mayor Winstead for bringing the project to his attention and shared that the $2.8 Million in King County funding secured for the project was the largest portion of grant money awarded in the County. Mayor Winstead advised it would be helpful for the City to communicate the work being done in the community, highlighting the Ronald Commons and Vision House projects. Councilmember Hall asked about other grant funding opportunities for Ronald Commons. Councilmember Dembowski said there may be grants available through Veterans and Community Services in DCHS.
Councilmember Dembowski recalled a recent Sound Cities Association (SCA) meeting where the Committee to End Homelessness’s 10-Year Strategic Plan was discussed. He asked what Shoreline’s position is. Deputy Mayor Eggen shared that SCA has concerns with some of the updates to the Plan. Mr. MacColl commented that all cities are supportive of ending homelessness. The struggle is what needs to be done and who should do it. Councilmember Hall added Shoreline’s Ordinances are in line with the Plan’s vision, and if it is pointed out that one needs work, he is confident Council will amend it. Deputy Mayor Eggen noted the issue of car camping. Councilmember Dembowski replied that the One Night Count revealed several people in Shoreline living in their car/RV. He shared that Seattle is looking at its car camping regulations, and Mayor Winstead said Shoreline should do the same.
Mayor Winstead thanked Councilmember Dembowski for his help to secure a $20,000 grant for the Veteran’s Memorial Project and announced its ground breaking in July. Everyone agreed the project is great for the City Hall campus and looks forward to it being completed. Mayor Winstead commended Councilmember Dembowski for the Surplus Vanpool donation program and thanked him for sending a van to the Shoreline Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services (PRCS) Department. Councilmember Dembowski shared that he attended the State of the City Breakfast and was impressed with Shoreline’s PRCS and Human Services programs. The services show how local voices, government, and staff translate to local care, attention, and investment.
Councilmember Hall explained that State Route 523 (145th Street) is currently suffering from lack of local attention. He said Seattle is supportive of redeveloping the road but the challenge is getting the road to be thought of as a regional route. Councilmember Dembowski commented that Metro does not want to put busses on 145th Street due to the difficulty in delivering reliable travel times. Councilmember Hall emphasized that 145th Street is the only route to a light rail station in King County District 1 and suggested establishing partnerships to work through the issues. Councilmember Dembowski said the region is fortunate that Shoreline is willing to invest in 145th Street.
Councilmember Dembowski stated 6,000 people are expected to travel to the light rail station every day but there will only be parking for 500 vehicles. Therefore most people will need to get to the station by bus, bicycle, or walking. He shared his interest in asking Sound Transit to fund projects for getting people to the station. Mr. MacColl said Shoreline is working with Kenmore, Lake Forest Park, and Bothell to ask Sound Transit for high capacity transit along SR 522 and up SR 523 and to see if there is interest in a parking garage. He added it would be great to have Councilmember Dembowski’s support. Councilmember Dembowski agreed that traffic on SR 522 is already bad and could get worse. North end residents pay Sound Transit taxes and should get something out of the package.
Mr. McColl informed Councilmember Dembowski that when light rail opens in Shoreline, the City is interested in working with Metro on restructuring the service hours. Councilmember Dembowski said Metro’s current focus is on all day service and he would like to make sure peak services are not sacrificed. Councilmember Hall noted that Shoreline is doing its part to deliver infrastructure and allow for transit oriented development along 145th Street, and now it is imperative that Metro provides the transit.
Councilmember Dembowski provided Council an update on Metro’s financial status and recent announcement on new service investments to reduce crowding and improve reliability. Ms. Logsdon highlighted the investments targeted for Shoreline. Councilmember Hall pointed out that service hours inside Seattle City limits benefit suburban residents by reducing congestion for everyone who drives to Seattle.
Councilmember Dembowski updated Council on the Youth Action Plan. He stated that it is a strategic plan that sets priorities for serving young people and there are nine recommendations which are summarized in an Executive Summary he handed out. He noted the Best Start for Kids Program follows the Youth Action Plan recommendation. He then commented on feedback related to spending the money equitability throughout the County, and said he is open to ideas to make sure that happens. Mayor Winstead shared Shoreline’s concerns are regarding oversight of the program. Councilmember Hall commented that the State should be doing a better job to fund social services but commended King County on stepping up to cover the gap. Deputy Mayor Eggen shared that people will want to see how the money will be spent and how the program will be governed before they can vote yes for it. Ms. Logsdon pointed out that money will be spent on screening all kids and then the kids who need additional services will be provided them.
Councilmember Dembowski concluded by stating he is dedicated to working for Shoreline.
At 6:55 p.m. the meeting was adjourned.
/S/ Jessica Simulcik Smith, City Clerk
CITY OF SHORELINE
SHORELINE CITY COUNCIL
Monday, June 8, 2015 Council Chambers - Shoreline City Hall
7:00 p.m. 17500 Midvale Avenue North
PRESENT: Mayor Winstead, Deputy Mayor Eggen,
Councilmembers McGlashan, Hall and Roberts (Councilmember Roberts arrived
at 7:21 p.m.)
ABSENT: Councilmembers McConnell and Salomon
1. CALL TO ORDER
At 7:00 p.m., the meeting was called to order by Mayor Winstead, who presided.
2. FLAG SALUTE/ROLL CALL
Mayor Winstead led the flag salute. Upon roll call by the City Clerk, all Councilmembers were present with the exception of Councilmembers McConnell and Salomon.
Councilmember Hall moved to excuse Councilmembers McConnell and Salomon for personal reasons. The motion was seconded by Deputy Mayor Eggen and passed 4-0.
3. REPORT OF CITY MANAGER
Debby Tarry, City Manager, provided reports and updates on various City meetings, projects and events.
4. COUNCIL REPORTS
Mayor Winstead recapped this evening’s dinner meeting with King County Councilmember Rod Dembowski. She shared that the discussion included funding for Ronald Commons, the 145th Street Redevelopment, Metro and transit services, Veteran’s Memorial funding, and a carpool van donation. She stated Councilmember Dembowski provided updates on the King County Youth Action Plan, Best Starts for Kids, and the Shoreline One Night Count.
Deputy Mayor Eggen reported attending the Seashore Transportation Forum held in Seattle, in conjunction with the Seattle Transportation Committee, and learning about Seattle projects. He shared that the SeaShore Committee approved writing a letter to urge Sound Transit to place a high capacity transit route on 522 and 523 to provide better transit access to the 145th Light Rail Station.
5. PUBLIC COMMENT
Dan Jacoby, Shoreline resident, recalled questioning the traffic mitigation plans in the Aurora Square Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) Draft Environmental Impact Statement. He expressed optimism about the possible gateway entrance on 160th included in the CRA Planned Action FEIS, and expressed concern with the apartments on the north side of 160th. He commented on possible construction on 157th Street from Aurora to Westminster, and suggested running an overpass over 157th to connect to south portions to avoid cutting through the Interurban Trail. He suggested “mixed use” or “office” space towards the rear and west side of the area. He recommended adding an art center to bring people to Shoreline to increase revenue and add jobs, and looking at other things that will make it a beautiful place to go.
Janet Way, Shoreline Preservation Society, stated they are in favor of improving Aurora Square and making it more vibrant. She expressed concern about the CRA Environmental Impact Statement impacts to alternatives. She commented that increased traffic and more impervious surface will lead to more stormwater runoffs. She cited consequences of the lack of good onsite stormwater detention. She suggested retrofitting the site to benefit Boeing Creek and onsite infiltration and detention. She talked about the impacts to Schools and parks, the property tax exemption provision, and asked who is going to pay for everything highlighted in the EIS. She asked why the Westminster Triangle was left of the Draft EIS. She asked to be a party of record with legal standing for the Shoreline Preservation Society. She then brought attention to a letter circulating in the Community encouraging people to sell property and stated that it preys on poor people affected by the rezone. She submitted the letter for the record.
6. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
The agenda was approved by unanimous consent.
7. CONSENT CALENDAR
Upon motion by Councilmember Hall, seconded by Councilmember McGlashan and unanimously carried, 4-0, the following Consent Calendar items were approved:
(a) Minutes of Business Meeting of April 6, 2015, Minutes of Business Meeting of April 13, 2015, and Minutes of Special Meeting of May 11, 2015
(b) Approval of expenses and payroll as of May 22, 2015 in the amount of $4,954,544.45
|
*Payroll and Benefits: |
||||||
|
Payroll Period |
Payment Date |
EFT Numbers (EF) |
Payroll Checks (PR) |
Benefit Checks (AP) |
Amount Paid |
|
|
4/12/15-4/25/15 |
5/1/2015 |
60095-60894 |
13791-13809 |
59922-59927 |
$443,445.11 |
|
|
4/26/15-5/9/15 |
5/15/2015 |
60895-61096 |
13810-13833 |
60092-60097 |
$443,075.02 |
|
|
$886,520.13 |
||||||
|
*Wire Transfers: |
||||||
|
Expense Register Dated |
Wire Transfer Number |
|
Amount Paid |
|||
|
4/28/2015 |
1093 |
$2,962.77 |
||||
|
$2,962.77 |
||||||
|
*Accounts Payable Claims: |
||||||
|
Expense Register Dated |
Check Number (Begin) |
Check Number (End) |
Amount Paid |
|||
|
4/21/2015 |
59797 |
59797 |
$34,217.46 |
|||
|
4/23/2015 |
59798 |
59800 |
$39,511.54 |
|||
|
4/23/2015 |
59801 |
59825 |
$867,189.14 |
|||
|
4/24/2015 |
59826 |
59863 |
$161,717.16 |
|||
|
4/28/2015 |
59864 |
59864 |
$54.00 |
|||
|
4/30/2015 |
59865 |
59883 |
$38,860.27 |
|||
|
4/30/2015 |
59884 |
59894 |
$57,241.79 |
|||
|
4/30/2015 |
59895 |
59921 |
$61,399.60 |
|||
|
5/1/2015 |
59928 |
59931 |
$23,541.85 |
|||
|
5/5/2015 |
59932 |
59932 |
$1,003.16 |
|||
|
5/7/2015 |
59933 |
59933 |
$54.00 |
|||
|
5/13/2015 |
59934 |
59934 |
$2,071.66 |
|||
|
5/14/2015 |
59935 |
59956 |
$1,864,668.13 |
|||
|
5/14/2015 |
59957 |
58878 |
$158,868.11 |
|||
|
5/14/2015 |
59979 |
59994 |
$20,039.04 |
|||
|
5/15/2015 |
59995 |
60021 |
$92,387.16 |
|||
|
5/15/2015 |
60022 |
60030 |
$3,175.63 |
|||
|
5/19/2015 |
60031 |
60031 |
$54.00 |
|||
|
5/20/2015 |
60032 |
60033 |
$66,541.38 |
|||
|
5/20/2015 |
60034 |
60034 |
$2,721.69 |
|||
|
5/21/2015 |
60035 |
60058 |
$171,348.40 |
|||
|
5/21/2015 |
60059 |
60064 |
$15,554.31 |
|||
|
5/21/2015 |
60065 |
60084 |
$381,149.97 |
|||
|
5/21/2015 |
60085 |
60091 |
$1,692.10 |
|||
|
$4,065,061.55 |
||||||
8. STUDY ITEMS
(a) Discussion Ord. No. 705 - Aurora Square CRA Planned Action FEIS and Ord. No. 712 Amending SMC 20.50 Subchapter 8 – Signs
Dan Eernissee, Economic Development Manager, introduced the topic and reviewed the reasons for a Planned Action are to have a more comprehensive environmental review, advocate for area-wide improvements, increase likelihood of investments, and allow the City to shape improvements. He reviewed the City's process for the Aurora Square CRA Draft Environmental Impact Statement and cited that the three growth alternatives studied were 1) no growth; 2) 500 units + 250,000 square feet commercial; 3) 1,000 units + 500,000 square feet commercial. He stated the Planning Commission unanimously recommended adoption of the Planned Action with Alternative 3 and to amend the sign code as proposed. He identified the three key areas studied in the EIS as transportation; light, noise, and glare; and stormwater management. He noted that lack of connectivity, Westminster Way division of the Center, and the lack of connection to Shoreline Community College as transportation related reasons hindering renewal. He added that any new growth with Aurora Square’s current configuration will make traffic on Westminster and 155th Street worse. He shared the EIS findings revealed that the overall road system can handle growth and that custom frontage projects helps renewal. He said that projects should be prioritized, and then reviewed a proposed priority project list.
Councilmembers expressed desire for a pedestrian friendly area and preference for one access point from Aurora. They asked about creating a pedestrian and bicycle plaza at the upper level of the site, and a safe bicycle path connection near 160th Street. Michael Lapham, KGB Consultant, responded that they are considering a dedicated cycle track along the backside of Aurora connecting to 160th, a roundabout, and other options for bicycles.
Councilmembers asked when the Comprehensive Study will be completed, about potential changes to the intersection at Aurora and 155th, if roundabouts can be used, and curb alterations to accommodate trucks. They discussed removing the Westminster slip lane and asked if making that an access point has been considered. Kendra Dedinsky, City Traffic Engineer Manager, responded that the current intersection would accommodate trucks and provided other traffic options for trucks. She stated that the comprehensive study is expected to be completed within the year. She explained slip lanes help to relieve congestion and make 155th Street and Aurora operate better. She added that the City can study making it an access point, but said it can be challenged by the private property owner.
Councilmembers asked if the two existing permits received by the Permit Department are included in the 1,000 unit count of the Planned Action. Lisa Grueter, BERK DEIS Consultant, responded that they are part of the total Planned Action units, and explained a provision that allows developers to move between bank of units and bank of trip categories. Mr. Eernissee added that the Planned Action would not have to be reopened for small changes.
Councilmembers commented that the City is on the right track keeping a Westminster turn off, cautioned against using two trails across the bridge, recommended using traffic calming measures in the basic design, and shared that the City’s primary goals are safety and accessibility.
Mr. Eernissee stated that light, glare, and noise were studied in the DEIS. He explained how the proposed CRA Sign Code Section will serve to unite the CRA, provide signage to support dining and entertainment, and overcome sightline blockage. He provided signage examples and proposed using common signage for businesses.
Councilmembers offered support for unified signage and branding, and discussed electronic signage, timing of messages, and stated that signs need to be useful but not distracting. They questioned if the Washington State Department of Transportation would allow electronic signage on a road they control. They discussed the interpretation of the Sign Code regarding electronic message signs, asked where the signs will be placed, questioned if there is an agreement among the businesses, and mentioned Shoreline Community College’s request for signage on Aurora.
Mr. Eernissee explained the sign code regulation allowances and pointed out where signs would be placed. He explained that the current Covenant Condition & Restrictions would need to be amended to address signage. He suggested implementing a Business Improvement District that could be as a mechanism to pay for signage and legislates how it functions. He explained that anchor tenants will be on the monument sign and smaller businesses would be advertised by electronic messaging.
Mr. Eernissee stated that Stormwater Management was studied in the DEIS, noted it is an enormous cost for development, and questioned if onsite costs can be reduced. He explained that stormwater detention is the greatest detriment to redevelopment because of cost. He presented the idea of creating a regional detention system in collaboration with SCC. He explained that building a regional stormwater detention facility will provide stormwater management and dramatically reduce cost.
Councilmembers discussed the use of detention ponds, daylighting the creek, and utilizing rain gardens. They provided the Northgate parking lot as an example of rain garden utilization. They expressed concern about sedimentation issues, dredging costs, and requested that additional information and cost options be provided. They asked if a developer would perform on-site mitigation to improve water quality. Mr. Eernissee responded that the stormwater management would only address detention and water quality management would have to be performed onsite.
At 8:43 p.m., Mayor Winstead called for a recess, and at 8:46 p.m. she reconvened the meeting.
(b) Discussion of the Capital Improvement Plan
Tricia Juhnke, City Engineer, reviewed the Capital Improvement Plan’s (CIP) development process, schedule, recent accomplishments, and provided an update of current projects. She reviewed the General Capital, Facilities Major Maintenance, Surface Water Utility, Road Capital, and General Fund Contributions funds approved in the 2015-2020 CIP. She explained that other issues are the Aurora Square Community Renewal Area, Road Vacation Funds, and Project Delivery and Resources. She asked for Council’s direction in the development of the 2016-2021 CIP. She reviewed next steps in the process and stated the 2016-2021 CIP discussion will continued at the August 17, 2015 City Council Meeting.
Councilmembers discussed the need for assessment of equipment and restrooms, and emphasized that bathrooms are an important elements to public parks. They asked how restrooms and play equipment replacement fit in the Parks, Recreation and Open Space (PROS) Plan, and if project priorities currently scheduled in the Parks Master Plan would be changed. They commented on the replacement of lights at Twin Ponds Park and support taking advantage of grant opportunities to fund the project.
Ms. Juhnke responded that the PROS Plan did not look at restrooms and equipment, but shared that this project is in line with the City's Asset Management initiative to identify the lifecycle of investments, priorities for replacements, and risk. She explained that priorities will be reviewed during the PROS Plan update.
Ms. Juhnke reviewed the Facilities Major Maintenance Fund and the Surface Water Utility Fund. She communicated that it is an enterprise fund and explained staff’s desire to update the Surface Water Master Plan, prioritize basin plan projects, and look at a rate structure to fund the projects.
Councilmembers expressed caution about bonding against utilities, questioned if it is possible to predict the stability of the fund over time, and asked for a status update on the basin plans. Ms. Juhnke explained why bonding is used and added they can plan for bonds based on a consistent revenue source. She stated they are finishing up the Ballinger Creek/Lyons Creek/McAleer Creek Area study, and will be starting the Puget Sound Basin Area study and conducting pipe condition assessments.
A discussion ensued on surface water rates and Council’s previous decision to raise utility rates to ensure payment of bonds. They expressed concern over the amount of money spent on updating the plans, and pointed out that the Boeing Creek Basin Plan did not mention the idea of a detention facility. Ms. Juhnke explained the assumptions used on the Boeing Creek Plan and that development would be responsible for using the code regulations which can become cost prohibiting.
Ms. Juhnke reviewed the Roads Capital Fund, identified existing sidewalks in need of maintenance and restoration, and said that funding is also needed to update the Transportation Master Plan. She then reviewed funding options and explained the need for a long term funding strategy for sidewalks.
Councilmembers discussed the inadequacy of current sidewalks, and commented that maintaining current sidewalks is more important than adding new sidewalks. Ms. Juhnke responded that typically new sidewalks are funded by grants and suggested focusing on improving arterial corridors and bus route sidewalks.
Councilmembers requested more information identifying sidewalks in need of maintenance and the locations for the new sidewalks. They asked staff to bring back a visual image identifying the “40 blocks of sidewalk” referenced in the staff report. They talked about the need for voters to be informed of the sidewalk projects if the Transportation Benefit District is proposing fee increases. They asked for a better clarification of the term “maintenance” and asked if it includes the removal and replacement of trees. They offered support for the removal of poles and fire hydrants from sidewalks to make them safe and passable, and recommended a future discussion on how to generate funds for new sidewalks needed in the City.
Ms. Juhnke responded that trees are causing a lot of the damage and that they are having a conversation with Parks to address this issue. Debbie Tarry, City Manager, explained that a robust long term new sidewalk and maintenance program will require a dedicated funding source.
Ms. Juhnke reviewed non-fund specific issues are Aurora Square Community Renewal Area, Road Vacation Funds, and Project Delivery and Resources.
Councilmembers asked why an off-site stormwater facility study is being funded by the General Fund. They recommended looking for a clearer connection to a project that will benefit the utility. They asked about cost recovery options and suggested waiting to see if SCC agrees to a partnership for a regional detention system before spending funds. Ms. Juhnke confirmed that general funds would be used because it is an economic development project.
Councilmembers asked about staffing levels for the Aurora Corridor project. Ms. Tarry explained that initially it was a full time position but when it was vacated, a consultant was hired to fill that role.
Councilmembers requested more information before making a decision on spending road vacation funds, and shared the importance of acquiring open space and holding these funds to purchase it. They stated that more information on alternatives is needed. They agreed that using consultants is appropriate for short falls of work; but stated that the City should not get into a permanent cycle of using consultants as ongoing staff replacements.
Ms. Juhnke reviewed general fund contribution priorities. A discussion ensued on the current policy regarding the grant match program. Ms. Tarry explained the grant matching process.
Ms. Juhnke reviewed next steps and shared that she will incorporate Council recommendations into the CIP for further discussion at the August 17, 2015 Council Meeting.
9. ADJOURNMENT
At 9:55 p.m., Mayor Winstead declared the meeting adjourned.
/S/ Jessica Simulcik Smith, City Clerk