CITY OF SHORELINE
SHORELINE CITY COUNCIL
SUMMARY MINUTES OF SPECIAL MEETING
Monday, June 18, 2007 - 6:30 p.m.
Shoreline Conference Center
Mount Rainier Room
PRESENT: Mayor Ransom, Deputy Mayor Fimia, Councilmember Hansen, Councilmember McGlashan, Councilmember Ryu, and Councilmember Way
ABSENT: Councilmember Gustafson
At 6:33 p.m., the meeting was called to order by Mayor Ransom, who presided.
Mayor Ransom led the flag salute. Upon roll call by the City Clerk, all Councilmembers were present with the exceptions of Councilmembers Gustafson.
Councilmember Hansen moved to excuse Councilmember Gustafson. Councilmember McGlashan seconded the motion, which carried 6-0.
(a) Proclamation of "Filipino American Month"
Mayor Ransom read the proclamation declaring the month of May as "Filipino-American Month" in the City of Shoreline. Fred Lutgo, President of the Filipino-American Association, accepted the proclamation, introduced some of the members of the association that were in attendance, and thanked the Mayor and the Council.
(b) Recognition of Outgoing Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Board Members
Mayor Ransom introduced Margaret Boyce, Larry Blake, and Dwight Stevens, all outgoing members of the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services (PRCS) Board. He noted that all three have served on the board since 1998. He outlined the important improvements during their tenure, such as the development of Paramount School Park, Shoreview Park Phase II improvements, the installation of synthetic turf on Shoreline Soccer Fields A & B, the acquisition of the South Woods Park, the Richmond Beach Saltwater Park Master Plan, the Shoreline pool renovation, Spartan Recreation Center Phase II, and the voter-approved parks bond. He highlighted the background and experience of each retiree and thanked them for their work and efforts.
Dick Deal, Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Director thanked all of them for their great work over the years.
Mayor Ransom said the City was presented the AWC Wellness, Well-City Award. John Norris accepted the plaque on behalf of the City’s Wellness Committee. He also noted that the National League of Cities also presented the City employees with a certificate of achievement for the award. Additionally, Mayor Ransom said that the Aurora Corridor ribbon cutting ceremony was on Saturday and the City was presented an award from the Transportation Improvement Board (TIB).
3. CITY MANAGER’S REPORT AND FUTURE AGENDAS
Bob Olander, City Manager, reported on the success of the Aurora Corridor and Interurban Trail Bridge ribbon cutting ceremony. There were speakers representing partners from TIB, Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC), and Seattle City Light (SCL). He noted that a community meeting concerning the options for subsequent phases of the Aurora Corridor would be held June 20. This meeting will provide a chance to learn about the environmental analysis and ask questions. He discussed the temporary closure of Dayton Avenue N between 172nd Street to St. Luke’s Place and said there will be a detour route along Fremont Avenue North. He announced that the Shoreline/Lake Forest Park Arts Festival will be held June 23-24 and more information about the festival can be found on the City’s website. The next Planning Commission meeting is June 21and an arterial speed limit meeting will be held June 27.
Mayor Ransom introduced Maryn Wynne and Larry Owens of
the Shoreline Solar Project (SSP).
Mr. Owens gave a description of what SSP is and what they do. He said the
SSP was established in 2004 and are a tax-exempt, non-profit
organization which endeavors to promote practical applications of renewable
energy and environmentally responsible practices that enhance the economic,
ecological, and social environment of the community. Topics of interest to the
SSP include bio-diesel, water issues, solar power, and compact fluorescent
lights. He said they want to demonstrate real-world solutions by bringing
in experts to educate and inform the public. He said they have fun and evaluate
solutions based on measurable results.
Ms. Wynne said they have monthly community meetings at Meridian Park School every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. She commented that one of the frequent
questions from people who come to those meetings is whether or not solar energy
works here in Shoreline. She confirmed that it does.
Mr. Owens highlighted that Meridian Park was the City’s first
demonstration project, and Parkwood Elementary was the second. Both
projects, he said, were fully funded through Seattle City Light’s
Green Power grant program. He displayed pictures of solar
installations of both homes and businesses within Shoreline city limits.
He also said that the SSP encourages the public to practice
energy conservation by placing more cost-saving appliances in their homes prior
to replacing or repairing older appliances. He discussed the term "phantom
loads" and described it as the energy spent by certain appliances such
as computers when they are not actually being used, or in
"sleep" mode.
Ms. Wynne commented that the first Renewable Energy Fair in 2004
was small but successful. She highlighted that attendance doubled at
the 2006 Fair and there were 63 exhibitors with a full day of
speakers and presentations. This year’s fair has a broad
range of support and will feature lots of topics, she said. Additionally, there
is a Friday night kickoff with keynote speaker Alan Durning from
the Sightline Institute. She highlighted there is a "Haute
Trash" fashion show, a silent auction, and a no-host wine
bar that evening to raise funds for the event. At the fair
itself, there will be alternative transportation choices on display, an
interactive solar cooking demonstration, and displays of recycled art from
salvaged construction material. The Shoreline Chamber of Commerce will
also be sponsoring the "Taste of Shoreline" at the event. The
Chamber is looking for ways to get more people involved and to get people to
spend money here in Shoreline.
Mr. Owens discussed the future plans for the SSP, including capital projects
such as "solar roller" (a portable renewable energy supply)
and the "Green Business Plan" to get more local businesses
to adopt "green" business practices. Additionally, the plan
will include neighborhood outreach, broad community partnerships, and
educational programs throughout the City to disseminate
"green" principles and ideas to save energy.
He concluded that SSP is also looking for a permanent office location
and staff support.
Ms. Wynne said that Shoreline residents can start supporting the SSP by doing a home energy analysis and by practicing conservation and efficiency in their residence. Additionally, they can enter their home into the Energy Wise Holiday Lighting contest. She added that they can attend a monthly SSP meeting and tell friends about the SSP and the Renewable Energy Fair.
Deputy Mayor Fimia asked if there were any volunteers needed for the fair. Mr. Owens said they are always looking for support and they should call (206) 306-9233.
Councilmember Ryu said she is happy to hear about the “solar
roller.” She said at last year's fair she suggested to Bob Phelps
that it would be nice to have a portable solar energy supply.
Councilmember Way explained that the sustainability piece of the
"Taste of Shoreline" concerns shopping in Shoreline and the need
to spend dollars here to bolster the City’s economy.
Mayor Ransom requested to reorder the study items. There was Council consensus to take the items in the following order: 7(c), 7(d), 7(a), and 7(b).
a) Nancy Frey, Director of the Shoreline/Lake Forest Park Arts Council, noted that the theme of this year’s arts festival is "Arts in Bloom". She said there will be over 25 music and dance performances, over 60 craft booths, student films, a poetry contest, a LEGO room, the Tenth Annual Filipino Festival, a Chinese cultural room, and a food court. She added that there is a need for volunteers for the children’s hands-on displays. She announced that there will be a drum circle, zydeco dance lessons, jugglers, and a performance by the Missoula Children’s Theater. She invited the public to breakfast at the Senior Center on June 23-24. In conclusion, she said the festival is on June 23 from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and on June 24 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. She said that the public can go to www.shorelinearts.net for more information.
b) Paul Grace, Shoreline, thanked and congratulated Mr. Olander on the opening of Aurora Corridor Phase 1. He said it was a significant day for the City. He said it is safer for pedestrians and drivers and Shoreline will drop off the State’s list for having unsafe traffic corridors. He is excited that the City is starting to endorse and provide for alternative transportation modes, such as bicycles and pedestrians, which has been a spur to economic development. There have been new businesses and existing businesses getting building permits, and the corridor is becoming the “magnet” the Council knew it would be. He said now it is time to consider the next phases and he urged the Council not to delay and get sidetracked. He wanted the Council to complete it with its current design because it is critical to the City’s safety, mobility, and economic vitality.
c) Sandra Amolo, Shoreline, spoke in favor of the YMCA Youth Development Center. She said the facility has played an important role in her life since coming from Kenya five years ago. She said the YMCA made a home for her and she feels welcomed, as any valued member. The YMCA has one of the most understated programs in the City, and it encourages youth to achieve great things. She said she graduated from Shorecrest High School and has received scholarships to Seattle University. She commented that she has join leadership groups and the YMCA has shaped her as an individual. She said she is continuously involved in YMCA, the youth council, and the diversity group. She urged the Council to consider funding for the YMCA. She also mentioned her involvement with the black student union and the Shoreline Hip Hop dance team.
d) Elaine Phelps, Shoreline, asked the Council to consider undertaking a resolution regarding impeachment. She provided a sample resolution for the City Clerk, the City Manager, the City Attorney, and the Council. She urged everyone to attend a session on June 24 at the Piggot Auditorium at Seattle University called, "Our Constitution in Crisis: A Call to Action." It is a town hall meeting and a workshop by impeachment experts, she noted. This is an "action training" workshop which will also cover such impeachment worthy actions such as violations of international law, statutes, and treaties. She commented that this is a difficult subject but she has spent lots of time studying it. She referred to it as the defense of our constitution and said it is the citizens’ job to protect their rights.
e) Judy Allen, Shoreline, read two e-mails dated December 14, 2005 and December 27, 2005. She gave a copy of each to the City Clerk. She commented on the occurrences surrounding the termination of City Manager Steve Burkett. She said she is only reading the words written by Mayor Ransom, Deputy Mayor Fimia, Councilmember Ryu, Councilmember Way, and former Councilmember Chang. These are documents of public record, and the podium is to raise public issues. She said she is raising the biggest issues and she became passionate about government and ethics the day Councilmember Hansen resigned as Mayor.
Deputy Mayor Fimia asked Mr. Olander if there were
any options not to complete the Aurora Corridor Project or if there are
any Councilmembers or groups that are advocating that the City not complete the
Project.
Mr. Olander responded that as a part of the environmental process there is
always a no-action alternative. However, there is a range of options
to consider, so the no-action option is very unlikely. He said there are no
Councilmembers or groups advocating that the Aurora Corridor Project not be
completed.
6. STUDY ITEMS
(c) Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Center Request for Funding
Mr. Olander explained that the Council has received a request for an additional $18,000 for the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Center. The Center has provided the City with some information regarding their budget shortfalls, which are largely due to cutbacks from other jurisdictions and rent increases. In order to balance their budget, they will have to cut operating hours and staffing if some emergency funding isn’t acquired. City staff recommends emergency funding for two years because the City will have its own budget shortfalls beginning in 2008. He noted that one of the initiatives of the long range strategic plan is to conduct a major community outreach program to determine what the priorities are for City services and where more efficiencies can be found. He explained that the City’s highest revenue source, property taxes, can only be increased by 1% each year. The City will face increases in police contract costs, gas prices, health care, asphalt, materials, and the costs to keep employee salaries competitive. He noted that the City has done a good job over the past few years and has some one-time funding available that was carried forward to meet the requirements of the Senior Center and YMCA, but where the funds will come from after that is unclear. There are lots of agencies facing same crisis, he noted. Unfortunately, all of them are outstanding agencies which deserve additional funding. However, the City needs to address its long-range financial obligations first. Therefore, staff recommends allocating an additional $36,000 over next two years to the Senior Center, or $18,000 per year.
Mayor Ransom called for public comment.
PUBLIC COMMENT
a) Rose Lagerberg, Senior Center member, discussed the services available at the senior center. She said the Meals-on-Wheels program is a wonderful service and the senior center is a “home away from home” for many of its members. She commented that the staff works hard on activities geared toward healthy and active minds and bodies. She asked for the Council’s support.
b) Terry Scott, Shoreline, supported the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Center. He added that he supports programs that support people. He said there are two issues on agenda and seniors have played significant role in society’s workforce and it is vitally important to have a senior center for them to enjoy. He added that Mr. Olander presented the budget issues very well and he realized that the City has capital improvement projects that are for the future. However, he concluded that people are the City’s most important investment. He urged support for the Senior Center funding.
c) Chris Eggen, Shoreline, supported this budget amendment item. He appreciated the plan and stated that it seems to be a fiscally responsible way to provide funding to a worthwhile organization and it gives the City enough time to look at priorities. He commented that he also favored the YMCA funding. He urged the Council to support both items.
d) Liz Poitras, Shoreline, Senior Center volunteer, advocated for additional funding for the Senior Center. She said she joined the Senior Center nine years ago, and that the facility provides a place of comfort for seniors. She outlined that the Senior Center provides exercise and training classes, fun activities, and nutritional meals. The Senior Center also allows its members a place to socialize and learn new things, which is important for good mental health. She asked the Council to provide additional funding.
e) Nate Osterman, Shoreline, said he has been a resident of Shoreline since 1964 and has been retired for eight years. He said he goes to the Center every morning and helps out in the kitchen. He felt the City needs the Senior Center to be open all of the time. There are people that need the exercise and all the other activities as mentioned by the woman who spoke before him. He requested that the Council do what it can to keep the Center open.
f) Dennis Lee, Shoreline, said the Shoreline School District owns the property. He stated the seniors that attend the senior center have already paid their taxes and should be paid to participate. He said he would like to see a chart of his property tax expenditures and see what proportion goes to the senior center. He said there is no question that this item needs to be funded for at least the next two years.
g) Elaine Phelps, Shoreline, urged the Council to support this item. She commented that the Senior Center is something our community needs and it promotes living a healthy lifestyle. She would like to see the Senior Center have a fundraiser to accept donations and other sources of funding. She reiterated that this facility must stay open and hoped the Council would approve the item.
Councilmember Hansen supported the additional funding. He responded to Mr. Lee and agreed that the members of the Senior Center have paid their taxes. He stated that the City has increased their allotment to the Senior Center by 12%, or $8,000, for a total of $77,000 this year. He highlighted that the addition of this $18,000 allocation would result in a 27% increase. He felt the Senior Center provides a necessary service for Shoreline residents and they deserve it. However, he is concerned that the school district is going to propose a 10 to 20% rent increase. He felt the two years allocation will give the City and the Senior Center time to consider options, because there are lots of possibilities. He stated that a 27% increase is significant, and $95,000 from the Human Services budget is a lot to apply to one organization.
Deputy Mayor Fimia moved to direct staff to bring legislation back to the Council for the allocation of an additional $36,000 ($18,000 in 2007 and $18,000 in 2008). Councilmember Ryu seconded the motion.
Deputy Mayor Fimia added that the Senior Center needs help to keep their doors open. She said if the City doesn’t assist them they will lose their ability to raise funds. She said she will work with the City staff, the Senior Center, and the residents in order to secure long-term funding for this great program.
Councilmember Ryu concurred. She inquired if the Senior Center provides services that overlap with those that the City provides. Dick Deal, Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Director, responded that the City allows them to use the facilities at Spartan Recreation Center, and the City utilizes their facilities too. He commented that it is more of a partnership than a duplication of services.
Councilmember Ryu felt that the Senior Center provides essential services and doesn’t create new programs. She stated that the City is providing about 25% of the Senior Center total revenue, which isn’t adequate to keep the facility open eight hours a day. She added that Shoreline residents make up 46% of the total Senior Center participants. She calculated that the City contribution of $18,000 per year brings the City’s total to about 30% of the participants. This, she said, is a fair amount for the City of Shoreline to be funding. She expressed support for the motion.
Councilmember Way said she many seniors who use the Center also give back to the City. She felt the allocation is minor compared to the Senior Center total budget. Her parents, she added, have been faithful attendees of a senior center in New Jersey. She agreed with allocating the additional revenue and said she enthusiastically supports the recommendation.
Councilmember McGlashan supported this recommendation fully and requested the citizens of Shoreline plan and attend fundraisers for the Senior Center and the YMCA. These fundraisers should include the business community as well, he said. These, he warned, may be the programs that the Council will need to cut in 2009 - 2010. He asked if the Senior Center is supposed to present a short and long-term financial plan to the City Council prior to approval of the next round of human services funding.
Mr. Olander replied that this will be discussed with the City’s Human Services staff and the service center personnel.
Mayor Ransom supported the item and said it will give the Senior Center a chance to figure out their finances. He felt that the way revenues are going down and expenses are going up is similar to the City’s situation with property taxes. He noted that he was on the School Board when the levy was created for the Senior Center. The levy, at the time, was to be for the senior center and not intended to be assessed rent and that it would be increased. He said that back then the levies and bonds were generated for reconstructing most of the schools, and the Senior Center was added in as a motivator for seniors to support school levies. As a result, he said the Senior Center was to be a reward for the senior community’s levy support and that the building should belong to them. He said the levy was specifically worded that way. He suggested the Senior Center staff go back and look at the original levy because he believes that the building belongs to the Senior Center.
A vote was taken on the motion to direct staff to bring legislation back to the Council for allocating an additional $36,000 ($18,000 in 2007 and $18,000 in 2008), which carried 6-0.
RECESS
At 8:29 p.m., Mayor Ransom called for a ten minute recess. At 8:37 p.m. the Council meeting reconvened.
(d) YMCA Request for Funding
Mr. Olander stated the YMCA has requested funding of $1 million to be spread out over 20 years in a service contract. The City, he noted, is not in a financial position to enter into any long-term contracts. However, the YMCA is a valuable community resource which has provided outstanding services to date. They have exciting plans for the community and the new building. He said the staff recommendation is for a short-term, two-year contract for 2008 – 2009. He said the total allocation would be for $40,000 for 2008 and 2009. This will allow the City time to reevaluate long-term financial needs and to engage the community regarding financial support for the YMCA.
Mayor Ransom asked for clarification on the kinds of income, if any, the City receives from the YMCA and whether they pay property taxes. Debbie Tarry, Finance Director, stated that the YMCA property is exempt from property taxes because they are a non-profit entity. They do pay sales taxes and utility taxes on goods they procure. The City will get a small portion of sales tax from their construction and any goods or services they may purchase here in the City. She also noted that the City gets a portion of the utility taxes, but nothing from the membership dues.
Mayor Ransom called for public comment.
a) Terry Scott, Shoreline, supported the YMCA. He said the programs support people and serve a broad section of community. He added that the City should do anything it can within reason to assist the YMCA in building their new facility at Echo Lake.
b) Cindy Neff, Shoreline, said she is encouraged by the direction of the Council on the YMCA issue. She said it is great to see a show of support for the YMCA. She hoped the City and the YMCA can find common ground and create a joint venture. This facility is going to be an asset for the City and one that the City should invest in. She assumed there will be more public comment pertaining to the YMCA and funding at future meetings.
c) Shannon Grady, Shoreline, said she was a volunteer and is presently a staff member at the YMCA. She thanked the Council for the thoughtful discussions in support of the YMCA. She noted that there was comment concerning the possibility of other valuable and vital organizations that offer similar services. The YMCA, she pointed out, has a unique approach to program development and the manner in which it provides services. Programs are based on developmental assets, volunteerism, service learning, total health, relationship development, and the core values of respect, responsibility, honesty, caring, faith, and fun. She said the organization is uniquely positioned to provide “cradle to grave” services. She said the facility runs the gamut of opportunities and infuses their assets into the community. She also said the YMCA is growing environmentally sound citizens that are socially responsible. She said the City of Shoreline and the YMCA have an unparalleled opportunity to bring unduplicated services into this community.
d) Jim Abbott, Shoreline, noted he grew up at the YMCA on 50th Avenue in Seattle. He commented that the YMCA is valuable to our community and urged the Council to consider being a partner. He asked that the Council keep an open mind about possible future funding. He suggested that maybe a street crimes officer won't be as necessary in the future if young people can engage in programs and participate in activities at the YMCA.
e) Evan Voltsis, Shoreline, said he has been on the YMCA board for eight or nine years. He commented that times are tough and costs are rising. He would appreciate anything the City can to on behalf of himself and the community for this facility.
f) Steve Dunn, Shoreline, YMCA Capital Campaign Manager, thanked City staff for bringing forth a viable offer to the YMCA. He thanked the City for the additional $40,000 for two years and requested the City to waive the permit fees and possibly expedite the permitting process. He announced that the groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for July 17, and in order for the event to occur the permits must be approved by the City. He understood the City is constrained and the funding is fair and kind. The YMCA would like to be involved in upcoming meetings to discuss the kinds of services that make sense. He thanked the Council for its support for the Senior Center.
Councilmember Hansen said he is passionate about this project because it is an expansion of the City’s human services outreach and it is proactive. He said that taking care of people before they're a problem instead of after the fact is important. The YMCA, he felt, was a $19 million gift to the City. He said he is 100% behind proposal to add $80,000, but said he is still going to explore ways for the City to provide more support. He noted that Ms. Grady demonstrates what can happen when places like this are proactive rather than reactive.
Councilmember Ryu stated she is happy to hear the human services expansion is a possibility. She said the City staff has done a lot of work and put in a lot of thought in preparing this. She felt that because the City cannot waive fees on it own projects, waiving the YMCA fees probably won't happen.
Councilmember Way favored the City staff recommendation and thanked them for the work done. She congratulated the YMCA and their board.
Deputy Mayor Fimia asked the City Manager about an expedited permitting process for the YMCA. Mr. Olander said he thinks an expedited process can help the YMCA, but he will have to check with City staff on workload. He hesitated to say categorically yes, but he supported trying to do it.
Deputy Mayor Fimia said she supports the project wholeheartedly. She asked for an opinion regarding capital expenditures from government to non-profit entities. Ian Sievers, City Attorney, responded that King County established a Public Development Authority (PDA) to ensure there is a contract and that the pubic gets adequate value for the money they spend.
Councilmember McGlashan supported the project and the funding wholeheartedly. He said this is a proactive approach and the City should invest money up-front. This facility, he stated, is going to be built on Aurora Avenue. He said he is disappointed with the amount of funding and that the City needs to look for ways to come up with future funding.
Mayor Ransom concluded that all of the Council indicated support for one-time funding of $40,000 in 2008 and $40,000 in 2009. He added that there is no discussion of additional permitting fees. However, the City is already providing $32,000 in funding each year, so this allocation will bring the total up to $72,000 per year for the YMCA.
Councilmember McGlashan asked about the long term financial strategy citizen advisory committee and wondered if the City staff has talked about the scope of work for this committee. Mr. Olander replied that the plan is to bring back more detailed information through public outreach in September. The plan will include schedule, timeline, and some public outreach measures.
There was Council consensus to direct staff to proceed with the process of allocating additional funding to the YMCA in the amount of $40,000 in 2008 and $40,000 in 2009.
(a) 2008 - 2013 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) Discussion
Debbie Tarry, Finance Director, outlined the proposed 2008 - 2013 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) schedule with a public hearing and Council adoption scheduled on July 9. She highlighted that the proposed 2008 – 2013 CIP is balanced as required by the Growth Management Act and totals $172 million. The General Capital Fund consists of 17 projects and totals $32.9 million. The City Facilities/Major Maintenance Fund totals $340,000; Roads Capital Fund totals $120.4 million; and Surface Water Utility Fund capital projects totals $18.3 million. She noted that the largest area of resource allocation is for the City Hall/Civic Center project, with about one half of the project being funded from savings that the City has accumulated over the years for this project specifically; about $12.75 million will be financed. She explained that the Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) is a 0.5% tax levied on the sale of real estate which is normally paid by the seller. Half of the REET, she said, is allocated to the City and it can be used for any capital project in the City and is typically recorded in the City’s General Capital Fund. She noted that there is some preliminary funding of $1.4 million put aside for site acquisition for the City’s Parks Maintenance and Public Works Facility. She further commented on the City Hall/Civic Center building and said it should be opened in 2009. She stated the upgrade of Spartan Recreation Center, by both the City and the school district, will be complete this year. She discussed the ongoing City projects and improvements and each of their funding sources.
Deputy Mayor Fimia inquired about the Kruckeberg Gardens negotiations. Mr. Sievers responded that the acquisition of Kruckeberg Gardens is going well. He said there is another meeting on the operating agreement tomorrow and the purchase and sale agreement is complete. He added that the negotiations are coming along and both parties are getting closer to an agreement.
Ms. Tarry stated that residents can access the CIP and the TIP on the City’s website, the libraries, storefronts, or obtain a copy in the City Clerk’s Office. She continued with her presentation and discussed the City Facilities Major Maintenance Fund and its background. She highlighted that the funding level was reduced from $70,000 to $30,000 in 2007, but the plan is to increase it by $10,000 per year in 2010 so that by 2013 the level will be back at $70,000 per year. This would need to be reviewed by the Citizens Advisory Committee to ensure there are adequate funds to do this.
Councilmember McGlashan asked if the pool was going to be replaced. Mr. Olander responded that pools have a limited life span and stated that the pool should be replaced in a six to ten year timeframe. The replacement, he announced, would require the passage of a major voted bond.
Councilmember Way assumed that a contingency is built in for emergencies, repairs, and disasters. Ms. Tarry responded that funding for emergencies and disasters is a part of the reserve policy. She then reviewed the Roads Capital Fund, which consists of 12 projects and totals $120.4 million. $93 million is for the Aurora Corridor Improvements from 165th Avenue N to 205th Avenue N. A significant portion of the $93 million is derived from grants, specifically the remaining portion of the Aurora Corridor. The City, she highlighted, still needs to obtain a little over $51 million in grants for the Aurora Corridor Project. She added that the General Fund does contribute $4.8 million into the Roads Capital Fund. She said rising costs for transportation and sidewalk projects are attributed to global impacts, real estate, and other inflation factors.
Councilmember Way inquired if there was any grant funding available for pervious pavement, given that the State has a new Puget Sound protection agency. Mr. Olander responded that he hasn’t seen any identified funding from the Association of Washington Cities (AWC) or the State. However, he added that cities will probably see some unfunded mandates rather than funding.
Ms. Tarry added that the staff has programmed in some TIB grants and the City will continue to seek grant funding to assist the City in completing priority projects.
Deputy Mayor Fimia said she was told that the Public Works Trust Fund (PWTF) could fund some sidewalks at a low interest rate. Ms. Tarry said that is correct, but any monies that come from the PWTF would have to be reimbursed back into the fund. She discussed traffic signal rehabilitation and said there was some one-time funding in 2006, but funding has been scarce since then.
Regarding the work needed at the intersection at Aurora Avenue N and N 145th Street, Councilmember McGlashan asked if the City is waiting for the City of Seattle to move with their portion of the Aurora Corridor. Mr. Olander said the City of Seattle needs to buy property and align their segment of the intersection before Shoreline can work on the site.
Ms. Tarry discussed proposed upgrades to several turn signals throughout the City.
Mayor Ransom inquired if the new turn signal at N 149th Street and Aurora Avenue N is approved. Ms. Tarry responded that the City is looking for grant funding for that particular turn signal. She said there is grant funding for the traffic signal at 170th Avenue and 15th Avenue N. She announced that the City-funded portion of the Aurora Corridor Project from 165th to 205th has remained constant at $10 million dollars, even though the cost of the total project has increased. The City has procured over $31 million in grant funds awarded for this portion of the project with an additional $51.1 million to fully fund the project. She highlighted that the following projects are not currently funded:
1) Any traffic calming projects (one-time $200,000 funded in 2006)
2) Traffic signal rehabilitation ($160,000 estimate per year from Public Works)
3) Subarea studies
4) Ridgecrest Commercial Center
5) Ashworth Avenue Street Sidewalk
Ms. Tarry also outlined the long-term funding issues the City is facing. They include: the reduction of funds which were allocated to the General Fund; reduced level of gambling activity; House Bill 1858; and the reinstatement of vehicle license fees. Additionally, the vehicle license fees were a dedicated funding source that could be used for transportation projects. Next week, she said there will be a public hearing on the CIP and the TIP. The TIP, she explained, is the roads capital section of the CIP. She added that next week the surface water capital projects will also be reviewed.
Councilmember Way asked about the Richmond Beach Road subarea study. Ms. Tarry replied that this study was proposed as part of the Economic Development plan.
Councilmember McGlashan asked if the urgency concerning the subarea study would change based on what is happening at Point Wells. Mr. Olander said he felt the City has a long way to go because there is some serious negotiating still to do with Snohomish County. The City also needs to look at any legal options, because if it is developed as a part of Snohomish County, the City would insist that there would be significant mitigation which would require a full study. At this point, he said it was a suggestion that didn’t rise high enough on the list for the City to request funding; therefore, it is in the unfunded category.
MEETING EXTENSION
At 10:00 p.m., Deputy Mayor Fimia moved to extend the meeting until 10:30 p.m. Councilmember McGlashan seconded the motion, which carried 6-0.
Mayor Ransom called for public comment. There was no one wishing to provide public comment on this item.
(b) Solid Waste Collection Request for Proposals and Contract
Mark Relph, Public Works Director, reminded the Council that there is a schedule in the staff report. He said City staff recommends initiating a Request for Proposal (RFP) instead of pursuing negotiations with current provider. That conclusion is based on some work and investigation done that it is in the best interest of the residents. He mentioned that mandatory trash pickup is a policy issue that should be decided. He added that a telephone survey was conducted to help City staff understand what the most appropriate base services would be. He introduced Rika Cecil, Environmental Services Coordinator, and Jeff Brown, a consultant from Sound Resource Management.
Ms. Cecil reviewed the staff report. She said in 2000, the Council decided to terminate their relationship with the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC) and chose Waste Management (WM) to provide waste removal services in the City. The current agreement with WM expires on February 28, 2008 and the City is hoping to send out an RFP on Wednesday. The telephone survey revealed that out of the single-family residents surveyed, 93% subscribe to curbside collection, 92% recycle curbside, and 69% pay for yard waste collection. Additionally, the survey revealed that 20% found weekly collection important.
Councilmember Way inquired about having an incentive for residents to reduce waste by conserving. She said she would like to have as many incentives for residents as possible. Mr. Brown responded that rates have fairly small cross subsidies and it is spread out a little to increase incentives. Basically, higher service areas pay a bit more and lower service areas pay a bit less.
Councilmember Ryu said she will be asking for some kind of styrofoam ban and some way of dealing with plastic bags. She said she would like these issues addressed when the time is appropriate.
Deputy Mayor Fimia felt that there has been a tremendous amount of work put into this item already and wasn’t aware of the mechanism to amend the RFP. She highlighted that the $300,000 annual City fee will be reflected in a huge rate increase to the residents. Additionally, she guessed that routine litter pick up on principal arterials will be a lot more than $60,000 per year.
Ms. Cecil said the City is presently being charged $55,000 and has been for the last seven years or so. In recent years, each municipality in King County has been charged more for waste services. The range has been between $150,000 - $300,000. She noted that it is easier to negotiate starting with the higher amount.
Deputy Mayor Fimia added that there is no equivalent reflection of what kind of rate increase that means to the residents. These increases will just be reverted to the residents, but the City needs to have a clear understanding how the money will be spent and what the impact to the ratepayers will be. Mr. Relph replied that the funds will be used for environmental services. His hope is that after the RFP process closes and the low bidder is selected, then those issues can be negotiated. He said the City doesn’t know what $300,000 will do to the rate because it hasn’t advertised the process yet. Mr. Brown added that the charges would be spread out over the residential and commercial rate base and is embedded in the rates. He said it would not be a straight 4% added on top of the rates. He pointed out that competition also helps add more services to the contract.
Deputy Mayor Fimia said the Council would still need to see the end product. She said there are projects such as litter reduction, reduction of waste in the stream, graffiti removal, working with the shopping centers, providing cloth bags, consumer education, brochures, etc. She also asked if the requirement for 2007 model trucks or newer is realistic. Mr. Brown responded that most cities require that 20% of the trucks utilized be bio-diesel for low emissions. Secondly, he pointed out that if new trucks are called for in the contract then new trucks have to be used. However, sometimes slightly older trucks with better emissions are also utilized.
Deputy Mayor Fimia also inquired about universal garbage carts and said it makes sense not to have too many different ones utilized. She commented that the Spring Cleanup Event is popular and she felt there should be two to four of them in the City rather than just one event. She suggested the clean up of storm debris during the fall and the winter should be put in the contract. Currently, she said residents put the storm debris from the street and their yard in front on the right-of-way. Residents, she commented, would be very happy to pay to have the debris hauled away.
Ms. Cecil said that part of the $300,000 could be used for the removal of storm debris and one or more cleanup events. She added that they have requested the disposal of fluorescent bulbs at the new transfer station and the last word from King County was that it would be approved.
Deputy Mayor Fimia stated that there are many commercial ratepayers that are using these bulbs, which means there will need to be a higher rate of compliance with disposing of these legally so there should be some mechanism for pick-up. Mr. Brown said he is not sure putting it in the contract would be the best way to handle it because it requires specialized haulers.
Councilmember Hansen left the meeting at 10:15 p.m.
Councilmember Way inquired if the City had an overall waste reduction goal.
Ms. Cecil said it is a part of the King County Comprehensive Plan and the County is in the process of updating it again. It will be a countywide discussion, she said, and the City can create its own goal.
Councilmember Way commented that it may be something the residents might be willing to consider. She questioned if it would fit into King County’s Plan, the City’s goals or another goal system. Ms. Cecil responded that it would fit into a different system, but it is good way to look at the services the City is considering providing, and how they all help us achieve a higher rate of recycling. This, she added, would be reflected in lower rates for City residents.
Mr. Olander commented that the strategic plan includes a measure for reducing solid waste in the City. He said there is no established goal; however, it is something the City would want to target and measure as one of its strategies. He added that there is an option concerning embedded commercial recycling, which could be a major addition to our current solid waste program.
MEETING EXTENSION
At 10:29 p.m., Councilmember Ryu moved to extend the meeting until 10:45 p.m. Councilmember Way seconded the motion, which carried 5-0.
Mayor Ransom called for public comment.
a) Dennis Lee, Shoreline, commented that Councilmember Way is trying to think “outside the box.” He said he hauls his own garbage and he shares the duty with two other houses, so the impact and the labor is reduced. He said communities should subsidize and let people who have smaller garbage loads use it free. He said people who have large cans and don’t recycle should pay more.
Mayor Ransom felt that requiring the waste management company to use new vehicles or 20% bio-diesel vehicles is too demanding. He said there are many neighbors who haul their own garbage to the dump and he isn’t in favor of mandatory collection. He said there are some residents who won't recycle. However, to encourage recycling we can give incentives, but it will be difficult to make everyone do it.
Councilmember Ryu favored embedded commercial recycling. She spoke concerning source control and said maybe the City can make it easier at the point of purchase by having recycling stations. She pointed out that future generations will be living with what we do now. She agreed with Mayor Ransom and said mandatory collection will not be accepted by the residents.
Mayor Ransom commented that year-round pickup of yard debris doesn’t make sense if there isn’t any debris in the winter months.
Councilmember Ryu added that it could be used for food scraps. Ms. Cecil responded that she has received consistent complaints about yard debris because of storms in the winter. She said she also has received complaints about food scraps being left out.
Responding to Councilmember McGlashan regarding whether this discussion constitutes the start of negotiations, Mr. Relph said this is a process that will be brought back to the Council in September and he wants to make sure the Council is comfortable with it. He added that the timeline may have to be revisited, and the current provider might have to extend the current contract beyond February. He noted that much of this involves the possible transition to a new provider.
Deputy Mayor Fimia commented that she hasn’t heard any major complaints with starting this. She inquired if putting all garbage cans on one side of the street would it save emissions, time, fuel, etc. Mr. Brown responded that it depends on the route; however, apparently there is a higher incidents of accidents.
Mr. Olander said the staff will bring proposals back to the Council with a range of items and costs. Additionally, there will be a variety of suggestions from this meeting that will be incorporated into the RFP.
7. ADJOURNMENT
At 10:47 p.m., Mayor Ransom declared the meeting adjourned.
/S/ Scott Passey, City Clerk