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HomeMy WebLinkAbout07031995 PORT TOWNSEND CITY COUNCIL MINUTES OF THE REGULAR SESSION OF JULY 3, 1995 The City Council of the City of Port Townsend met in regular session this third day of July, 1995, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of City Hall, Mayor John M. Clise presiding. ROLL CALL Councilmembers present at Roll Call were Bill Davidson, Dan Harpole, Julie McCulloch, Diane Perry-Thompson, Ted Shoulberg, and Robert Sokol. Also present were Acting City Clerk Michael Hildt, City Attorney Timothy McMahan, Director of Public Works Bob Wheeler, John Merchant, Public Works, Director of Building & Community Development Dave Robison, Staff Planner Judy Serber, Library Director Linnea Patrick, and Acting Clerk Sheila Avis. INTRODUCTIONS and/or RECOGNITIONS: Councilmember Perry-Thompson introduced and applauded a young man, Rico Natali, and his friends who saw a need and cared enough about it to take action. Rico said he had attended the Main Street meeting and became involved in the Boiler Room. When the Boiler Room closed due to financial need, he worked with Mr. Harpole and Mr Shoulberg to begin a fund raiser. He and his friends held a car wash earning $170. He thanked Mr. Harpole and Mr. Shoulberg and some o£the friends who assisted him, Austin Balk and Luke Webber, who were also introduced to the Council. AGENDA CHANGES or ADDITIONS: There were no changes or additions to the agenda. CONSENT AGENDA Councilmember Sokol made a motion to approve the following items on the Consent Agenda which was seconded by Councilmember Perry-Thompson and passed unanimously by voice vote. Approval of the following Bills and Claims: 010 Current Expense 10,936.27 094 Garbage 37,121.73 110 Street 229.06 120 Library 7,467.05 130 Park 4,778.94 170 Emergency Medical Services 2,114.05 180 Capital Improvement 1,030.46 301 95 Storm Prop. Acq. 1,200.00 310 92 Waste Water Treatment Plant Construction 5,667.15 321 Union Wharf Reconstruction 15.00 330 93 Water Quality Improvements 291.33 371 95 San Juan Ave Improvements 32,075.95 372 95 Storm FCAAP#1 Flood Plan 7,855.50 380 Community Development Grant 1,990.82 411 Water-Sewer 29,201.70 412 Storm and Surface Water 13,513.98 416 56 Special Water Bond -RESERVE 500.00 500 Equipment Rental 5,539.08 610 Firemen's Pension and Relief 706.78 Total $162,234.85 Approval of Resolutions: RESOLUTION NO. 95-81 RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND AUTHORIZING STAFF TO SETTLE CHANGE ORDERS FOR UP TO $5,000 FOR A SINGLE CHANGE, OR $25,000 FOR SEVERAL CHANGES COMBINED, FOR CONSTRUCTION COSTS FOR THE LITTLE QUILCENE DIVERSION RECONSTRUCTION. RESOLUTION NO. 95-82 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO GRANT AN EASEMENT ACROSS CITY-OWNED PROPERTY TO PUGET SOUND POWER & LIGHT COMPANY FOR UDERGROUND UTILITY SERVICE. Communications: A letter dated June 15, 1995 to Mr. Sid Mordson, Secretary Washington State Department of Transportation, copied to Council, from Ron Ramage, President Port Townsend Chamber of Commerce, expressing concern about limited Port Townsend-Keystone ferry service. (For Information.) A letter dated June 21, 1995 to Mayor Clise from Rande Jaffe, President Sir Plus, updating issues of their freight chute door and the sidewalk in front of their store on Water Street. (To Public Safety.) A letter dated June 27, 1995 to Governor Mike Lowry, copied to Council, from Mayor Clise regarding reduced ferry service between Port Townsend and Keystore from two ferries to one. (For Information.) This concludes the Consent Agenda. PUBLIC COMMENTS Mr. Lloyd McMillan Sheridan Street, stated he spoke at the June 19th Council Meeting rejecting the proposed new Public Safety Building because it would cost too much for bonds. He said after the June 19th meeting he discovered the 50 secured spaces needed in the proposed building site would be for impounded vehicles and he finds it an intolerable offense to a residential area. PUBLIC HEARINGS Street Vacation Application 9505-08. Weidner. Robert and Mary_: Findings of Fact and Conclusions of the City Council. Public Works Staff Person assigned to this project, Ms. Judy Serber, introduced the application and explained the Findings of Fact and Conclusions. She stated Staff recommends approval of Street Vacation Application 9505-08 with conditions 1 through 4 of the Findings of Fact and Conclusions. Councilmember Davidson asked if the City would need to purchase the additional footage required if the existing easement in Exhibit 1 of her memorandum were to be widened. Ms. Serber said it is not part of this proposal, but they may submit it to the owner. Mr. Bob Weidner, proponent of the application, spoke in its favor. After brief discussion Councilmember Sokol made a motion to accept the Findings of Fact, Conclusions and Conditions and approve Street Vacation Application 9505-08 of Weidner, Robert and Mary. Councilmember Davidson seconded the motion and it was passed unanimously by voice vote. Street Vacation Application 9505-10, Grace, William; Findings of Fact and Conclusions of the Ci_ty Council. Public Works Staff Person assigned to this project, Ms. Judy Serber, introduced the application and explained the Findings of Fact and Conclusions. She stated Staff recommends approval of Street Vacation Application 9505-10 with conditions 1 through 3 of the Findings of Fact and Conclusions. Councilmember Sokol pointed out a misprint in Findings of Fact No. 6 which should read, "Lots 12, 13, and 14". Mr. Jackson spoke in favor of the application in the absence of the proponent, Mr. William Grace. Councilmember Sokol made a motion to accept the Findings of Facts No. 1 through 8; Conclusions No. 1 through 7, including No. 6 as amended; and Conditions No. 1 through 3; and to approve Street Vacation Application 9505-10 of Grace, William. Councilmember Harpole seconded the motion and it was passed unanimously by voice vote. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN COMMITTEE REPORTS Glue and String Committee. Councilmember Harpole reported the video he was to present at this Council Meeting had been delayed due to computer difficulties and the showing would be postponed to the July 17 Council Meeting. STANDING/ADHOC COMMITTEE REPORTS Parks. Recreation and Property.. Councilmember Harpole read a letter he had received from Mr. Bob Polishuk announcing a band concert July 30 at the Chetzemoka Park. He praised the availability of the Park for Port Townsend's park concerts. Mr. Harpole stated that at the July 29th meeting the committee went to the 35th Street Park site. He indicated layout of the site had been done so projections could be made. He said staff from both the City and County will reflag specific areas and that timber crews will be determining logging requirements. He said it is anticipated the area would be seeded by fall. He indicated a meeting scheduled for July 27, 4:00 p.m. has generated a lot interest. Mr. Harpole requested that discussion of the memorandum regarding Signing he sent for Council consideration at this meeting be postponed until August 7. He stated he wanted Mr. Bob Harper to participate in the discussion and said he is not available until then. Mr. Harpole announced a meeting July 6 at noon for the Union Wharf 30% design review. Finance Committee. Councilmember McCulloch reported the committee had met June 21 st. She set dates for the next two meetings: Friday, July 14 at noon with the Fire Department and Friday, July 17 at noon to discuss a rate study. Mayor Clise said he would be gone and asked Councilmember McCulloch to chair the meeting. Transportation Committee. Councilmember Perry-Thompson reported for Councilmember Westerman who was absent. She said Councilmember Westerman requested a meeting be set July 24 to discuss concerns neighbors have regarding a proposed alley development. There was discussion as to this being an administrative matter and to whether or not the proposed meeting would be appropriate. Director of Building & Community Development Robison said his staffwould deal with the matter. Mayor Clise asked that Mr. Robison bring a report back at the next Council Meeting. Community Services Committee. Councilmember Perry-Thompson said her committee had met Friday, June 30th with the City recycling consultant, Evergreen Solutions. The committee will meet again in August. She also asked who would attend the next two Library Board Meetings. Councilmember Davidson will attend July 24 and Councilmember Perry-Thompson in August. Joint Utilities Committee. Councilmember Shoulberg stated he attended two meetings for the Coordinated Water System Plan. He said that at the second meeting Director of Public Works Bob Wheeler suggested that the small water utilities participate in funding the Coordinated Water System Plan which met with their disapproval. He went on to explain the impact of city involvement. Mr. Wheeler stated there will be a meeting July 10, 9:30 a.m. at Public Works. He said Director of Building & Community Development Dave Robison and City Attorney Tim McMahan will be attending and discussing a confidential memorandum from February. MAYOR'S REPORT Mayor John Clise gave an update on the Port Townsend-Keystone ferry service. He referenced his letter to Governor Lowry and a letter from Mr. Ron Ramage, President of Port Townsend Chamber of Commerce, to Mr. Sid Mordson, Secretary Washington State Department of Transportation. The subject of both letters was reduction in ferry service during the peak tourist time. Mayor Clise stated he received copy of a letter State Representative Lynn Kessler had addressed to Mr. Sid Morrison stating what a horrendous problem the ferry disruption has caused the Olympic Peninsula at the only tourist season that matters. He indicated there is considerable concern regarding the electronic road signs throughout the area diverting traffic from Port Townsend. He said the Chamber of Commerce plans to send a delegation to see Mr. Morrison and indicated that although there is a lot of effort being generated, he is not optimistic. STAFF REPORTS Finance Department. City Administrator Michael Hildt reported the insurance audit went very well, that the City was well organized for the audit. He expressed appreciation to the many participants and especially praised Steve Corra's City Parks loss control inventory. The personnel system and recreation liability were the two issues of the audit and Mr. Hildt said they would move forward to make necessary changes. He also warned about building lock up of City Hall; the last persons out are responsible to make sure the building is secured, including side entrances. Mr. Hildt made reference to the ongoing budget process. He briefly discussed taxes and fees in the revenues area. Mr. Hildt indicated the interview process for new and lateral Police officers was nearly complete. He reported good results in their attempt to establish their Civil Service Roster. Building & Community Development. Director Dave Robison stated the City and County are coordinating their Economic Development Council Comply & Release. He noted Jefferson County and the City had recently come to agreement on the Glen Cove Comprehensive Plan. Director Robison referenced his June 29 letter to Council regarding the Regulatory Reform Law which alms to streamline the permit process. He indicated it is a major change and noted the compliance date is April 1, 1996. He said good planning must be done upfront in preparing a Comprehensive Plan and a consolidated permit and a limited public hearing process has to be developed. He enumerated some public hearing options and made the recommendation that staff begin working with the Land Use Committee of the City Council to identify issues and strategies to comply with the law. Director Robison agreed with Councilmember Davidson's request to meet with Mr. Robison and City Attorney McMahan. Councilmember Shoulberg said he would like to meet with the County on their Comprehensive Plan. Attorney's Office. City Attorney Tim McMahan gave a Regulatory Reform follow-up. He said with the new reform more decisions will be made administratively, more regulatory decisions without politics. He stated the first cut has been made in rewriting the Municipal Code appeal process to make it consistent with new legislation. He indicated they are moving forward rapidly and that it should be to Council by Fall. Public Works. Director Bob Wheeler addressed the regulatory process. He spoke about the antiquated Municipal codes and said he is working to bring standards and specifications up to standard. He indicated the initial draft should be ready by the end of the month. Mr. Wheeler spoke about making sidewalk repairs as expressed in the letter of June 21 from Rande Jaffe, President of Sir Plus. He also stated that he had consulted with Dr. Eugene Medina, Superintendent Port Townsend Public Schools, regarding the San Juan Project with temporary plans for crosswalks, traffic and transporation for the start of school in September. Mr. Wheeler said more water had been produced than anticipated. He indicated that water levels at this time are still very good, but that water conservation is still needed. He said there is substantial effort to educate everyone. He spoke of the demands of the Tri-Area. He stated they have been invited to a meeting for Utility providers of the Tri-Area July 6, 1995 at 7:00 p.m. in the Port Hadlock Library. Library.. Director Linnea Patrick reported May circulation was up 33 percent from May of 1994. She said the Internet is up and running and is being heavily used by the public. She indicated Intemet use would be primarily self service and that there had been public training in June. She also reported there is a very successful summer reading program going on. PUBLIC COMMENTS/QUESTIONS Mayor Clise opened the meeting for Public Comments/Questions. Mr. Lee Daniher of Summit Cable Company projected yearly revenue of approximately $30,000 according to the 1st quarter 3% franchise fee and other projections. He asked Councilmember Shoulberg regarding the refranchise. Mr. Shoulberg replied there had been delays due to personal emergencies. Mrs. Karen Gates-Hildt, Peninsula College, reported that within the new school year Jefferson County will have a full time administrator. She complimented the City Council on its support of higher education in their Comprehensive Plan. Councilmember Shoulberg questioned if there was consideration of either a Department of Natural Resources lease or holding 80 acres for a new campus, and she replied this is a top priority in their 5 to 10 year plan. Mayor Clise closed the Public Comment/Questions portion of the meeting. VOTE ON MOTIONS MADE DURING COMMITTEE/STAFF REPORTS Mayor Clise opened the meeting to the Public for comment on the motions made by Council during the Committee/Staff reports. There being none, Mayor Clise closed the Public Comment portion of the meeting. UNFINISHED BUSINESS ORDINANCE NO. 2467 AN ORDINANCE VACATING 1) THAT PORTION OF 18TH STREET LYING BETWEEN THE WESTERLY LINE OF GRANT STREET AND THE WESTERLY LINE OF LOT 1 OF BLOCK 144; AND 2) THAT PORTION OF HENDRICKS STREET LYING BETWEEN THE SOUTHERLY LINE OF DISCOVERY ROAD AND THE SOUTHERLY LINE OF 18TH STREET, ALL WITHIN THE EISENBEIS ADDITION TO THE CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND; ESTABLISHING CONDITIONS TO THE STREET VACATION; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Director of Building and Community Development Dave Robison introduced the ordinance. Councilmember Sokol made a motion that the first reading be considered the second and the third be by title only which was seconded by Councilmember McCulloch and passed unanimously by voice vote. Mr. Hildt again read the ordinance by title. Councilmember Davidson made a motion that the Council adopt Ordinance No. 2467 which was seconded by Councilmember Perry-Thompson and passed unanimously by roll call vote. RESOLUTION NO. 95-83 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO SIGN A CONSULTANT AGREEMENT WITH CH2M HILL FOR PREPARATION OF THE COMPOST MANAGEMENT AND FINANCIAL PLAN. Director of Public Works Bob Wheeler introduced the resolution stressing this should be considered a business plan, not a marketing plan. Discussion ensued. Councilmember Shoulberg made a motion that the Council adopt Resolution No. 95-83 which was seconded by Councilmember McCulloch and passed unanimously by voice vote. Council Goals & Objectives: 1996 Budget: Councilmember McCulloch stated the committee met June 2nd to discuss achievement of goals and required incremental steps over a multi-year period as set forth in the Go~s, Objectives and Priorities for the Financial Operations of the City (Resolution 94-98). She referenced the June 26th letter to Mayor Clise and the Council Finance Committee from Councilmember Sokol and suggested incorporating input from that letter as a proposed Objective No. 4 to the Council Objectives for the 1996 Budget. Objective No. 4 reads: "That the Mayor and Council meet the challenge of a balanced budget for 1996 which recognizes the mission of the City to protect life and property, public health and welfare, and good quality of life and that affordable cost of living is considered to be an essential component of the quality of life for our citizens, and for that reason new or increased taxes are considered only after the means have been explored and when levels of service deemed to be necessary by the community and City Council are at risk." Councilmember McCulloch made a motion to adopt the specific objectives for the 1996 Budget as contained in the June 29th memorandum to City Council from the Finance Committee with the addition of Objective No. 4. Councilmember Sokol insisted that no new taxes be added, that they be kept at the 1995 level. He called for privatization and for comparison of Port Townsend to cities of equal revenue, not population, when evaluating levels of service. Mr. Sokol also stressed an emphasis on increasing revenues. Concerns were expressed by others as to impact in various areas. Councilmember Shoulberg seconded the motion made by Councilmember McCulloch. Councilmember Sokol asked what tangible progress had been made in 1995. He made a motion that the City evaluate the progress toward achievement of Resolution 94-98 thus far in 1995 and make additional tangible progress toward the achievement of Resolution 94-98 in 1996. The motion died for lack of a second. Councilmember McCulloch affirmed that the City continues to make progress toward the achievement of Resolution 94-98. She made an amendment to her previous motion that Objective 1.a. of Council Objectives for the 1996 Budget, be reworded: "What steps have been taken by the department in 1995 to increase efficiency, and what steps will be taken by the department in 1996 to increase efficiency?" Councilmember Sokol seconded the amendment and the motion was passed unanimously by voice vote. NEW BUSINESS ORDINANCE NO. 2468 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND AMENDING PTMC 16.04.010 AND ADOPTING REVISED STATE BUILDING CODES. Director of Building and Community Development Robison introduced the ordinance. Discussion ensued. Councilmember Sokol made a motion that the first reading be considered the second and the third be by title only which was seconded by Councilmember Perry-Thompson and passed by voice vote with Councilmember Shoulberg opposing.. Mr. Hildt again read the ordinance by title. Councilmember Davidson made a motion that the Council adopt Ordinance No. 2468 which was seconded by Councilmember Harpole and passed unanimously by roll call vote. RESOLUTION NO. 95-84 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO SIGN A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH THE OLYMPIC AIR POLLUTION CONTROL AUTHORITY (OAPCA) AND PORT TOWNSEND SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 50 TO ESTABLISH AN MR MONITORING STATION IN PORT TOWNSEND AT THE BLUE HERON MIDDLE SCHOOL. Director of Building and Community Development Dave Robison explained the resolution. Councilmember Sokol made a motion that the Council adopt Resolution No. 95-84 which was seconded by Councilmember Shoulberg and passed unanimously by voice vote after a brief discussion. ORDINANCE NO. 2469 AN ORDINANCE RELATING TO UTILITY BUSINESS TAX, AMENDING SECTION 5.84.030 OF THE PORT TOWNSEND MUNICIPAL CODE TO INCREASE THE TAX RATE ON WATER, SEWER AND STORM AND SURFACE WATER UTILITY SERVICES, AND SETTING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. City Administrator Mr. Hildt introduced the ordinance stating it was a housekeeping process. Councilmember McCulloch made a motion that the first reading be considered the second and the third be by title only which was seconded by Councilmember Sokol and passed unanimously by voice vote. Mr. Hildt again read the ordinance by title. Councilmember McCulloch made a motion that the Council adopt Ordinance No. 2469 which was seconded by Councilmember Perry-Thompson and passed unanimously by roll call vote. ORDINANCE NO. 2470 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND AMENDING CHAPTER 3.37, POPE MARINE BUILDING USE REGULATIONS & CHARGES, SECTION 010, TO ALLOW ONE-YEAR ADVANCE RESERVATIONS FOR GOVERNMENT-SPONSORED SPECIAL PUBLIC EVENTS. Councilmember Harpole introduced the ordinance. Councilmember Sokol made a motion that the first reading be considered the second and the third be by title only which was seconded by Councilmember Davidson and passed unanimously by voice vote. Mr. Hildt again read the ordinance by title. Councilmember Perry-Thompson made a motion that the Council adopt Ordinance No. 2470 which was seconded by Councilmember Harpole and passed unanimously by roll call vote. ORDINANCE NO. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND DECLARING INTERIM CONTROLS ON ALL NON-SEPA-EXEMPT LAND USE APPLICATIONS AFFECTING PROPERTY WITHIN THE CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND AND PROVIDING FOR THE EFFECTIVE DATE THEREOF. Setting Hearing for 7-17-95. COUNCILMEMBERS GENERAL DISCUSSION Council Rules: Councilmember McCulloch stated she had made proposed revisions to the Council Rules at the June 5th Council. She noted a new section regarding Parliamentary Procedure and Roberts Rules of Order and said incorporation into the draft rules will be made and brought in final form for adoption at the next Council Meeting. A lengthy discussion ensued. EXECUTIVE SESSION Mayor Clise recessed the meeting into Executive Session at 11:05 p.m. including Director of Building and Community Development Dave Robison, and Director of Public Works Bob Wheeler to discuss recreational liability and property purchase. The meeting was reconvened at ***** p.m. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, at ***** Attest: Michael Hildt~ Acting City Clerk p.m., Mayor Clise adjoumed the meeting.