HomeMy WebLinkAbout02181997
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PORT TOWNSEND CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR SESSION OF FEBRUARY 18, 1997
The City Council ofthe City of Port Townsend met in regular session this 18th day of February,
1997, at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of City Hall, Mayor Julie McCulloch presiding.
ROLL CALL
Councilmembers present at Roll Call were Bill Davidson, Diane Perry-Thompson, Ian Keith,
Kathryn Jenks, Jean Camfield and Mark Welch. Councilmember Ted Shoulberg was excused.
Also present were City Clerk Pam Kolacy, City Administrator Michael Hildt, City Attorney
Timothy McMahan, Director of Public Works Bob Wheeler, Fire Chief Howard Scott, Library
Director Linnea Patrick, Judy Surber, Planner, and Sheila Avis, Minute Taker.
INTRODUCTIONS and/or RECOGNITIONS
There were none
PRIORITY PRESENTATION
County Commissioner Harpole expressed congratulations to the Council, Planning
Commission and staff on the success full defense of the Comprehensive Plan. He noted the
County Comp Plan will be out on February 24th. He requested assistance in recruiting
candidates for the County Planning Commission position to be filled by a city resident. Deadline
for filing has been extended to February 21st at 5:00 p.m.
Commissioner Harpole stated he had met with State Representatives in Olympia on
behalf of the Jefferson County Higher Education Assessment Committee. He said Jefferson
County is seeking a $50,000 grant to fund a needs assessment. The proposal would meet
education needs of young people just out of high school and other needs, e.g., retraining. He said
the Board of Commissioners by resolution sent a letter supporting the request. He asked Council
to do the same.
1996 Jefferson Community Health Report by Jefferson Community Health
Partnership. David Specter, Vic Dirksen, and Lesa Barnes made the presentation listing the six
participating agencies and outlining the goals of the project. They noted the benefits of the data
to the community, elicited the assistance of Council in participating in the next step of
interviews, and offered use of the resource to city.
AGENDA CHANGES OR ADDITIONS
.. Corrections:
Item I of the Consent Agenda, Resolution, change construction management to read,
"proj ect management."
City Council Minutes
Page 1
February 18,1997
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Mayors report (A) change approval to read, "Confirmation."
.. There will be an Executive Session regarding potential litigation.
.. Items H and I pulled from Consent Agenda and placed as B and C under New Business.
.. Changes made to 1995 Minutes of April 3; April 17; May I and May 15.
CONSENT AGENDA
Councilmember Keith made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda as amended and with the
removal of items H and I to New Business, which was seconded by Councilmember Perry-
Thompson and passed unanimously by voice vote.
Approval of the followinr Bills and Claim$:
0 1 0 Current Expense
094 Garbage
110 Street
120 Library
130 Park
180 Capital Improvement
190 Community Development Block Grant
360 Local Improvement District #1
411 Water-Sewer
412 Storm and Surface Water
500 Equipment Rental
610 Firemen's Pension and Relief
644 Fire Dept Pump Test Pit Fund
$ 26,124.96
39,317.94
6,925.45
5,038.48
4,424.31
4,476.22
4,762.12
23.24
85,883.31
6,534.69
13,940.56
235.10
302.12
Total
$ 197,988.50
Approval Without Reading of Minutes from:
January 21, 1997, February 3, 1997.
April 3, 1995, April 17, 1995, May 1,1995, and May 15,1995 approved as amended.
Out f).(State Travel:
Police Chief Newton to attend the Northwest Management Seminar in Portland, Oregon -- March
5,6 and 7, 1997.
Approval of Appointments/Reappointments:
Community Oriented Policing Advisory Board:
Patricia (Patti) Ragan, Term expires 11/15/98
John T. Carson, Term expires 11/15/2000
City Council Minutes
Page 2
February 18,1997
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Historic Preservation Committee:
Della M. Walker, Term expires 12/31/98
Paul Hess, Term expires 12/31/98
Arts Commission:
Eligius Wolodkewitsch, Term expires 2/1/2000
Don White, (Reappointment) Term expires 2/1/2000
Approval of Re~olutions:
RESOLUTION NO. 97-21
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PORT
TOWNSEND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO SIGN A PROFESSIONAL
SERVICE/CONSULTANT AGREEMENT WITH MADRONA PLANNING &
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES, INC, TO DRAFT REVISIONS OF TITLE 17
(ZONING), TITLE 18 (SUBDIVISION), PUD, AND MULTI-FAMILY
BUILDING DESIGN STANDARDS TO CONFORM WITH THE PORT
TOWNSEND MUNICIPAL CODE AND COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
RESOLUTION NO. 97-22
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PORT
TOWNSEND AUTHORIZING THE MA YOR TO SIGN A PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH NORTHWESTERN TERRITORIES INC
(NTI) TO PROVIDE ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR VARIOUS WATER
DISTRIBUTION IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS.
RESOLUTION NO. 97-23
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PORT
TOWNSEND AUTHORIZING THE MA YOR TO SUBMIT THE REVISED
DRAFT OF THE WATER SYSTEM PLAN TO THE DEPARTMENT OF
HEAL TH.
Approval of letter supporting Office of Marine Sijfetv
Communications:
A letter dated January 29, 1997, from Lloyd W. Cahoon, General Manager Port of Port
Townsend, regarding Comprehensive Plan discussions held January 9, 1997, the withdrawal of
Intervenor status relative to hearings before the Growth Management Board and anticipation of
completion by the City Council and staff of items agreed upon which require action. (For
information. )
A letter dated January 29, 1997, from Lloyd W. Cahoon, General Manager Port of Port
Townsend, expressing thanks for participation in the January 29th visit from Brian D. Olson,
City Council Minutes
Page 3
February 18,1997
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Managing Director, Business Development, W A State Department of Community Trade and
Economic Development. (For information.)
A memo of transmittal of January 1 through January 31, 1997, BCD Building Permit and Land
Use Status Reports. (For information.)
An undated letter of complaint and questions regarding their bill for water hookup and service
from Kim and David Afflerbach, 23022 NE 19 Dr, Redmond, W A 98053 and reply from Sandra
Youse, Utility Billing Clerk. (For information.)
A letter dated February 5, 1997, from the Western Growth Management Hearings Board giving
the final decision and order. (For information.)
A letter dated February 7, 1997, from the Washington State Ferries to Mayor McCulloch
announcing public hearings, including Port Townsend on Monday, February 24, 7:00 p.m., of the
Proposal to Discontinue Service to Sidney, B.c. (For information.)
This concludes the Consent Agenda.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Martin Rowe, Community Action, representing Jefferson County Housing Authority,
outlined a self-help, low income housing project for construction of eight houses per year for two
years. He asked the City to find a legal way to waive the building fees. Davidson requested the
matter be referred to the Finance Committee and set a meeting for Tuesday February 25, 1:30
p.m.
John T. Carson, newly appointed to the Policing Advisory Board, noted a problem with
the traffic signal at the SR 20 corner of Kearney Street and Sims Way. Mr. Wheeler noted the
traffic signal is maintained by the State and said they would pass the information to the State.
STANDING/ADHOC COMMITTEE REPORTS
Community Service,. Councilmember Perry-Thompson
Reported:
Saturday, February 14th, she and Councilmember Keith and a group of City employees worked
on a Haines Street cottage. At the completion of their work, C. L. Flint suggested they adopt the
cottage for continued upkeep by the City group, and she reported the adoption is being
investigated.
City Council Minutes
Page 4
February 18,1997
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Public Safety CoD)mittee. Councilmember Jenks
February 18, 1997 (Several citizens present.)
Discussion items:
> Police policy on use of force.
> Impact to the Police Department on change of speed limit in some areas.
> Street light at corner of Kearney Street and Sims Way.
Transportation. Councilmember Camfield
February 6, 1997
Discussion items:
> Student representative Blue Heron Middle School asked about adopting San Juan Avenue.
> San Juan Avenue schedule; non-motorized and arterial street plan.
> Union Wharf handicapped accessibility improvements -- Water and Taylor Streets.
> Port's request for lighting at Jefferson Street.
Set meetings --
February 26, 1997,4:30 p.m./ Agenda: Non-motorized and Arterial Street plans.
March 3,1997,11:30 a.m./ Agenda: Title 12 and Engineering Design
March 10,1997,11:30 a.m./ Agenda: Arterial Streets and Title 12
Parks, Recreation ftnd Property. Councilmember Welch
February 10, 1997 (Oversight Committee for Parks Functional Plan)
Discussion items:
> Parks Plan survey review. Greatest reported park usage (with the exception of State parks),
#1 Chetzemoka, and #2 Kah Tai. Open space and trails heavily used.
> Data available in draft plan May 12 and hopefully presented to council June 16th.
February 13, 1997
Discussion items:
> Various parks; status reports. Union Wharf walk through February 19th for rules and
regulations.
> Golf Course increase of greens fees from $10.80 to $12.00 for 9 holes and from $16.20 to
$18.00 for 18 holes. Discussed recently with Parks Commission which felt it was a
reasonable request. Action Item.
Set meeting -- March 13, 1997,4:30, Council Chambers
MOTION
Welch
Accept and approve the rate increases at the golf course as
requested by Mike Early Golf Shop.
SECOND Camfield
> Discussion: Jenks--Can't vote now; discussion is not clarified. Keith--Uneasy; committee
decided it was not an unreasonable request; to keep the course viable. Davidson--It is in the
best interest of the City to approve.
VOTE Held until next Public Comment
Water Advisory Committe~. Councilmember Keith (Shoulberg absent)
City Council Minutes
Page 5
February 18,1997
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February 10, 1997 (Including representatives from the County Environmental Health
Department, Public Utilities District, Forest Service and several citizens)
Discussion items:
.. Latest draft of the City Water Plan -- supply of safe drinking water to City customers for the
future.
Utilities Çommittee. Councilmember Keith (Chair Shoulberg absent)
February 11, 1997
Discussion items:
.. New Title 13 (requirements for development of the water system -- what infrastructure will
be required, and fair distribution of costs.)
Land Use. Councilmember Keith
February 12, 1997 --All Day (Several Planning Commission members present)
Discussion items:
.. Title 17 and 18 -- implementation measures for the Comp Plan. Implementation completion
is necessary for the April 9th deadline to qualify for the Public Works Trust Fund low interest
loans.
Set meeting -- March 5, 1997, 10:00 a.m.
Finance Committee. Councilmember Davidson
Set meeting -- February 25, 1997, 1:30 a.m.l Agenda -- building permit fees for self-help, low
income housing.
MA YOR'S REPORT
Mayor Julie McCulloch called for:
A. Confirmation of Bruce Freeland as Director of RuihJing and Community
Development and stated his yearly salary will be $60JOOO a~ offered.
MOTION
To confirm the appointment of Bruce
Building & Community Development
Perry-Thompson
Councilmember Keith, a member of the interview team,
this appointment.
Held until next Public Comment
Freeland as Director of
Keith
SECOND
Discussion:
said he is delighted with
VOTE
B. Western Growth Management Hearings Board Report. The Mayor reported the Hearings
Board issued their Final Order and Decision holding that Port Townsend has complied with the
GMA in all respects challenged by Petitioner William Eldridge on behalf of the Jefferson County
Homebuilders Association. She read excerpts from the decision, concluding with "We find that the
City has complied with the GMA in all respects challenged by petitioner. We congratulate the City
City Council Minutes
Page 6
February 18,1997
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on an outstanding comprehensive plan."
The Mayor expressed pride in the Comp Plan and thanked staff members, particularly Dave
Robison and Eric Toews. She thanked the Planning Commission for the tremendous amount of
hours they put in and commended City Attorney McMahan, noting the city did not have to hire
outside legal counsel..
Members ofthe council and staff expressed pride in the Comprehensive plan and also
expressed appreciation to the Planning Commission and staff (the work of Robison and Toews
and defense by Toews and McMahan), councilmembers, and the many citizens involved in the
process.
McMahan said it was a great privilege to find "gold nuggets" in the Comp Plan that can
continue to be used. He said it is a living document that will be updated and will benefit the
community -~ that it is a public product.
Wftshinrton State Ferries H~arin~r February 24,1997, Pope Marin~ Park.
The Mayor reported the Ferry System had heeded the request to hold a hearing in Port
Townsend regarding the proposal to discontinue service between Anacortes and Sidney, B.c.
The Mayor said she had just received information from the Port of Port Townsend that the
Ferry System Plan also contemplates a future passenger~on1y ferry from Kingston to Seattle. She
said port manager Lloyd Cahoon feels the community should make a concerted push to extend
connecting Port Townsend to a Kingston passenger-only daily commuter service.
She asked if the Council cared to take a position on the Sidney-Anacortes run. Keith and
Camfield said they would like to hear the State Ferries' presentation before formulating a formal
position. It was suggested to delay this decision to the continued Council meeting February 25th.
Visit to Se1Jttle HyofO Center Feþruary 11 tho re~arding Sister City relatiQnship.
The invitation to Ishikawa Town was discussed and how to entertain in the spring if accepted,
and a fall visit there at the traveler's own expense. Possible scheduling could include arriving
mid-day Thursday, May 15th -- Rhody Festival pet parade, visit schools and City Hall with Port
Townsend counterparts and in the evening a community event; Friday -- kiddie parade; Saturday
-- grand parade. Home stay on Saturday night. A small committee is working on details.
Union Wharf de(Jication 1\pril25th, open to publiç approxim~tely April 15th.
Schedule of events to follow.
WSU Jefferson Co\lnty Learninf: Center National town meeting via satellite tomorrow on
Environmentally Sustainable Energy Choices, 11 :00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. -- no cost. It will also be
taped and can be checked out.
STAFF REPORTS
Çity Clerk's Office: City Clerk Pam Kolacy
.. Municipal Code updates
.. Agenda items added after packets are distributed - requested copies for public files.
City Administrator's Office: City Administrator Michael Hildt
.. January 31 BCD staff had a day-long retreat regarding improving customer service, staff
City Council Minutes
February 18,1997
Page 7
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morale, and efficiency. Prioritized needs: 1) Office space; 2) Maximize use of computer
permit plan system; 3) Update of forms consistent with new regulations; 4) Computer system
update, network; 5) New phone system; 6) staff training
City Attorney's Office: City Attorney Tim McMahan
.. Memo dated today regarding Larry Scott Memorial Trail. Close to putting together an
interlocal agreement. Port Townsend Paper Company ready to make a donation including
transfer span. Minimal risk of titles claims. Ready to go forward.
MOTION
Council accept donation of property, both railroad right of
way including easements and the transfer span, from the Port
Townsend Paper Company, directing the staff to go forward
with preparing the deeds, and applauding the Port Townsend
Paper Company for the generous gift of property to the
community.
Camfield
SECOND Welch
.. Discussion: McMahan--Will be important link in water walk. The County is proposing to
take on all maintenance; City to be responsible for garbage collection, landscaping, etc., but
interlocal agreement not yet complete. In the future the transfer span will need to have
improvements, possibly with grant funding. Keith--What is the condition of transfer span;
would it be a total replacement? McMahan-- PT Paper Company did some work in the
'80s. As built are available from the Oregon company that did the work.
VOTE Held until next Public Comment.
Public Works: Director Bob Wheeler
.. Construction ceremony for Union Wharf. Drainage still an issue for bulbouts.
.. Water Master Plan--good comments from Water Advisory Committee. Public Hearing
April/May after response from the Health Department.
.. Randy Pendergrass, Administrative Manager, has resigned effective April 1.
Fire ,Department: Fire Chief Howard Scott
.. New ambulance is in service and working well.
.. New doors in bays are being installed and should be finished within a week or so.
PUBLIC COMMENTS/QUESTIONS
Mayor McCulloch opened the meeting for Public Comments/Questions.
Ms. Lisa Enarson applauded the efforts of working together on the Larry Scott Memorial Trail
but cautioned about the liability of accepting the land and transfer pier. She referenced a Comp
Plan policy that states you cannot have trails you cannot maintain. She noted the instability of
the pier and urged the City to consider what they are accepting and the associated costs.
City Council Minutes
Page 8
February 18,1997
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VOTE ON MOTIONS MADE DURING COMMITTEE/STAFF REPORTS
Mayor McCulloch opened the meeting to the Public for comment on the motions made by
Council during the Committee/Staff reports.
Increase \,re~ns fees at the folf cours~
VOTE--5 in favor, Jenks abstained
Confirm Bruce Freeland as BCD Director
VOTE--Unanimous 6 in favor
Accept dopatic;m of property from Port Townsend Paper Compaqy
VOTE--Unanimous 6 in favor.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Shoreline Conditional Use and Substantial Developptent Permit Application 96-00053,
William am) Kathleen Massey. (Closed Record Hearing)
Councilmember Jenks made the disclosure that she had spoken with Mr. Tom Mark,
Department of Ecology, regarding State shoreline WAC's, that she told him she would be taking
part in this quasi-judicial hearing and would need to keep the conversation strictly to policy. The
Mayor asked if there were any objection to Ms. Jenks' participation in this hearing and none was
expressed.
Jenks said she would be reading from *Exhibits G and H ofthe SEP A Threshold
Determination, that were not included in the packet, and requested they be copied for Council.
McMahan suggested first hearing the staff presentation. * ((G) Site Chronology prepared by
Mary Beth Hayes dated April 6, 1995; (H) Letter from Department of Ecology to Bob Wheeler,
Public Works Director, dated October 29, 1993)
Staff presentation
Building & Community Development Planner Judy Surber made the staff presentation,
discussing the Findings of Fact, Conclusion and Recommendation of the Port Townsend
Planning Commission. She noted the Planning Commission recommended with a voice vote of
5 in favor, 0 opposed and 0 abstaining, that the shoreline substantial development and
conditional use permit be approved as conditioned.
She also reported concerning research requested by the Planning Commission regarding the
presence of pigeon guillemots on the marine bluff forming the project's northern boundary and
indicated the ESA protects priority species, but that this species is not listed. She said that any
mitigation that could be imposed on the project would be strictly voluntary.
CorrecÛf)n
.. Camfield--Page 12 of 13 of the Shoreline CUP/SDP Application Recommendation #4
City Council Minutes
Page 9
February 18,1997
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should be corrected to read, "Prior to issuance of a "Building Permit. . . . " rather than
Certificate of Occupancy. She asked regarding the street trees mentioned in the landscape
plan and stated the City is having trouble with the trees that are now being used, that they are
not the dwarf variety. She asked that they make sure the correct kind is used.
Flakiqg of soil. retainiof )Vall, platform
.. Jenks-- Referred to the SEP A Threshold of Determination. Page 3 of 15 -- A. Earth.
"Flaking of soil and individual rocks are dislodged and fall onto the lower portion ofthe
site." Surber said that during the Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESA) permit process
information covering that issue will be provided. Jenks asked about the 4 foot tall, curved
. concrete retaining wall "near the center of the site" and asked if it is the buildable site.
Surber replied Exhibit 2 should show. Jenks asked if the platform mentioned on Page 4 of 15
is clear of sloughing and if the bluff above will impact the site below in any way. Surber
said she does not know.
.. Keith--Asked if between Exhibits 2 and 3 the concrete platform and bulkhead were
removed? Surber said believes the existing features will be removed and will include a new
retaining wall. She noted those issues would be deferred to the ESA geotechnical report
subsequent to this permit.
.. Jenks--Shoreline CUP/SDP Application, Page 11 of 13, Recommendation #1 answers
Keith's question, and it is not a given the retaining wall is gone. She questioned ifthe ESA
information would be there when the Department of Ecology (DOE) receives this. Surber
said it is the discretion of DOE if it is required. Jenks asked if there is any way to choose to
send a report of the environmental stability to the DOE? Surber noted the ESA application
has not been made yet so the information is not currently on hand. McMahan said Council
could modify that condition to have staff forward that information when available.
Water separator
.. Perry- Thompson-- Referenced Planning Commissioner Boles question if a water separator is
required? Surber said it is standard to commercial development.
.. Jenks--SEPA Page 5 of 15, paragraph 3. Asked regarding "should" translated "shall", "An
oil/water separator at the outlet of the on-site drainage system should be installed and
maintained by the property owner." Surber referred to "proponents shall submit a final
drainage plan. . . ." Page 12 of 15, Required Mitigation Measures (Water). Wheeler said it
would be left to Public Works determination; maybe there would be something better than
the water separator.
Harrison ROW, Stairs
.. Keith--Questioned concerning the vacated Harrison Street right-of-way and cross culvert on
Washington Street, SEPA Page 5 of 15. Surber said it is a different location. Keith--
Stairway, HPC Report Page 4 of9, #5. Although this is not part of the Waterwalk, the
Waterwalk shows pedestrian access where that old stairway was.
City Council Minutes
Page 10
February 18,1997
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Bnjoyment of the shoreline
.. Perry-Thompson--Regarding enjoyment of the shoreline, she had no problem with any of
this, but indicated regarding the stairway, if that is a problem it could be added as a condition.
.. Keith--Ifyou want to do that, would it be appropriate at this stage? McMahan said it has
been half vacated, so there isn't a public right-of-way there or an impact to justify a
condition. He discussed a reference to acquire an easement.
.. Camfield--Replied that was a recommendation on a wish list. She said this is a rather unique
site, because it is separated from the shoreline by SR20.
Stormwater Run-off
.. Jenks--Read an excerpt of a letter from Dr. Chuljian, 1305 Washington Street: "Any work
done near the bluff is apt to have some effect. Having lived and worked above the bluff since
1950 I have experienced 2 large sloughs in that time and know it can happen again in the
future. The risks are greatest near that part ofthe bluff that is vertical or even slightly
undercut." She said the vacated portion of Harrison Street is on the subject property and the
portion above it is a gully at the base of a steep street and subject to a great deal of run-off,
the northeastern corner of the property. The Planning Commission minutes show discussion
among Mr. Hildt, Mr. Saugen and the Planning Commission about the source of water run-
off being from above, that the problem is not what collects on the site, but what runs off
insofar as volume. The volume of run off is hitting what is well documented as degraded
water quality, that the leavings from the Chevron plant have resulted in a toxic site that is not
yet clean. She read an excerpt of a letter to Mr. Wheeler from Mary Beth Hayes, DOE,
(BCD file, Exhibit H ofthe MDNS): "Ecology does allow short-term discharge of treated
water from LUST sites or similar sites (i.e., primarily gasoline or diesel contamination) to
ground or to surface waters. The duration of the treated discharge must be less than 60 days.
The discharged water must be truly clean, that is, it must meet the standards as described in
the May 1992 Recommendation." She then read the Water Quality Goal of the Shoreline
Master Program, Page 4: "Development should be located, designed, constructed, and
operated so as not to degrade water quality as measured by State water quality standards."
She also read from the Site Chronology prepared by Mary Beth Hayes (BCD file, Exhibit G
ofthe MDNS): "Groundwater from three wells exceeded Method A levels for TPH-D. Total
petroleum hydrocarbons are found in the ppm level in the groundwater." She said it is her
understanding that degrading the water quality of the site, it means degrading the water
quality of the bay. She went on to say that the off site drainage that is proposed in this permit
will take this water into the bay and pointed out that it is an ecology requirement that the
water that goes into the bay must not further degrade the water quality into the bay, it must be
"truly clean."
.. Wheeler--"We have adopted the DOE Best Management Practices, a portion of the manual,
so we will review a final stormwater plan to assure that whatever stormwater system that is
put in for this development will meet those criteria." He said his memory was the 1993 letter
referred to a specific action Chevron was doing and was in response to a clean-up on that site
and is not sure that has relevance to the applicant dealing with stormwater.
City Council Minutes
February 18,1997
Page 11
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.. Jenks--The chronology (August 1994) indicates the site is not now clean.
.. Wheeler--He pointed out that any ground water contamination that may be a prior existing
condition comes under DOE's rules and regulations and are separate from dealing with the
stormwater we are talking about. Surface stormwater that would be generated will be treated
according to the DOE manual and discharged to some water body and will meet DOE
requirements. He said he felt the ground water conditions referred to in the October 29,
1993, DOE letter are separate from what may be happening with the stormwater and he
believes still comes under the jurisdiction of DOE for the site cleanup that went on for the
site in the past and if they require anything in the future.
.. Welch--Asked if typically you would not expect stormwater and existing ground water to mix
in their Stormwater Plan. Wheeler concurred and said he thinks that because of putting in
some impervious area it would probably keep what was going to ground water as surface
water and they will have to deal with it as surface water.
.. Camfield--Said she is more concerned about water on Washington Street coming over the
bluff; asked if there is a plan for accommodating that water so it will not come over the bluff?
Wheeler said the plan on Washington would have cost over $1 million; they will continue to
look at various improvements to the storm drainage on Washington Street. Camfield said
across from the James House water ponds and asked ifit goes into the Bay. Wheeler said
they need to redo the sewer line. Camfield asked if there is anything planned for the short
term? Wheeler--we are
looking at what we can do keep drainage flowing--drainage ditches, rolled curb, etc.
.. Jenks--Quoted from the Planning Commission Minutes of January 9, 1997, Page 12 to
underscore Camfield's concerns which she said she shares: "Saugen--.... Like Mr. Hildt
was saying, it is water going over the edge that is the problem that enhances that. Further
down, it appears more water is running off the streets and going north and south, and because
those areas are reasonably steep, you can see the erosion running right down." "Hildt--. . . .
The bigger threat is what we had for a little while there, actual overflow of drainage water;
then you can get a major erosion, and that should be dealt with." She said she appreciated
Mr. Wheeler's comments, that they allayed her fears.
COUNCIL DISCUSSION:
Jenks said she wants a condition that the ESA permit be forwarded to DOE. McMahan said to
add it as an amendment to Condition # 1.
MOTION
Jenks
Amend Condition #1 of the Shoreline Conditional Use and
Substantial Development Permit Application 96-00053 to read,
"upon completion of the ESA permit process, the Director shall
send the permit to the Department of Ecology."
SECOND
VOTE
Camfield
Unanimous, 6 in favor
City Council Minutes
February 18,1997
Page 12
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MOTION
Jenks Approve Shoreline Conditional Use and Substantial
Development Permit Application 96-00053, William and Kathleen Massey
Findings of Fact 1-14; Conclusions 1-8; Recommendations and
Conditions 1-12 with Condition #1 amended to say "upon
completion of the ESA permit process, the Director shall send the
permit to the Department of Ecology, and Condition #4 corrected
to say "prior to issuance of building permit", rather than issuance
of certificate of occupancy.
Perry-Thompson
Unanimous, 6 in favor
SECOND
VOTE
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
There was none.
NEW BUSINESS
RESOLUTION NO. 97-24
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PORT
TOWNSEND AUTHORIZING THE MA YOR TO SIGN A PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES AGREEMENT (PSA 18) WITH CH2M HILL FOR
TRANSPORTATION RELATED SERVICES.
Public Works Director Wheeler explained the resolution.
Councilmember Perry-Thompson made a motion that the Council adopt Resolution No. 97-24 which
was seconded by Councilmember Camfield and passed unanimously by voice vote 6 in favor.
RESOLUTION NO. 97-
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PORT
TOWNSEND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO SIGN A PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH KENNETH GILBERTSON TO ASSIST THE
CITY WITH MANAGEMENT OF THE CITY FOREST LANDS.
Councilmember Keith questioned whether this was a commitment council had requested without
more discussion and study. Mr. Wheeler said the purpose was to cooperate with the Forest Service
in their sale of timber. He suggested as an alternative that staff could look at timber management
objectives and come back and approve in concept, then look at options for Snow Creek.
MOTION
SECOND
Keith
Jenks
Postpone consideration indefinitely
City Council Minutes
Page 13
February 18,1997
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VOTE
Unanimous, 6 in favor
RESOLUTION NO. 97-25
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PORT
TOWNSEND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO SIGN A PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH LITTLE AND LITTLE CONSTRUCTION INc.
TO PROVIDE CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT SERVICES FOR LIBRARY
RENOV A TION AND THE PUBLIC SAFETY BUILDING PROJECTS.
Mayor McCulloch introduced the resolution.
Discussion centered on the language describing the project. The original language ". . as the Project
Manager for the Port Townsend Library Renovation and the Public Safety Building. ." was changed
to . . as the Project Manager for consideration of Public Facilities needs including City Hall, Library,
and existing Police Department renovation and interim public safety facility."
Camfield moved for adoption of Resolution 97-25 with the suggested language change. Keith
seconded. The motion carried unanimously by voice vote.
PUBLIC COMMENT
There was none.
COUNCILMEMBERS GENERAL DISCUSSION
Follow up discussion of the Council Retreat was delayed to a continued session February 25, 1997,
7:00 p.m.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Mayor McCulloch recessed the meeting into Executive Session to discuss potential litigation
including City Attorney McMahan, Public Works Director Wheeler and City Administrator. The
meeting was reconvened at 11 :53 p.m.
Councilmember Keith made a motion to continue the meeting to February 25, 1997, 7:00 p.m. in the
Council Chambers. Perry-Thompson seconded and the motion passed unanimously.
RECESS
There being no further business, at 11 :53 p.m. Mayor McCulloch declared the meeting recessed until
7:00 p.m. on February 25, 1997 in Council Chambers of City Hall
City Council Minutes
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February 18,1997
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Attest:
Pamela Kolacy
City Clerk
MINUTES OF THE CONTINUED SESSION OF FEBRUARY 25, 1997
The City Council of the City of Port Townsend met in continued session this 25th day of
February, 1997, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of City Hall, Mayor Julie McCulloch
presiding.
ROLL CALL
Councilmembers present at Roll Call were, Kathryn Jenks, Ian Keith, Diane Perry-Thompson,
Bill Davidson and Jean Camfield, and Mark Welch. Councilmember Ted Shoulberg was absent.
Staff Members present were City Clerk Pam Kolacy, City Attorney TimMcMahan, and Public
Works Director Bob Wheeler.
The first item of discussion was the proposed letter regarding support of funding for a feasibility
study for an inter-institutional consortium to serve adult education needs, as requested by county
commissioner Dan Harpole. A letter was circulated for review, and after brief discussion, the
content was approved and letters to the state senator and representatives were signed by council
members.
The public hearing on February 24 regarding the discontinuation of the Anacortes to Sidney, B.C.
ferry run was discussed. Issues included the number of bicyclists who use the route, the lack of
communication between the Washington State Ferries and Transport Canada, and the stated
mission of the ferry system which specifically does not include accommodating tourist traffic..
Issues important to Port Townsend include how vital tourism is to the economies of the Olympic
Peninsula, the direct effect on Port Townsend of discontinuing the loop from Anacortes to
Sidney, the inconsistency of the ferry system "mission" and the legislature's stated intention of
promoting tourism.
Camfield moved that Mayor McCulloch write to the Transportation Commission on behalf of the
city with copies to the Department of Transportation and Washington State Ferries Division to
recommend against the proposed discontinuation of the Anacortes to Sidney, B.c. ferry run.
Jenks seconded and the motion was carried unanimously by voice vote.
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February 18,1997
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In response to a request from Joe Fields, Camfield moved that the street crew be directed to
remove standing dead trees in Sather Park. Jenks seconded. The motion carried unanimously.
The council retreat held in January was the next topic of discussion. Some inaccuracies in the
written report were corrected.
Camfield noted her opinion that the major value of this type of retreat was the way council
members got together and talked with each other about items of concern; that an outside
facilitator added value to this particular process.
Jenks stated her major interest was in tenus of what came from the session; she particularly liked
the idea of study sessions where discussion and learning can take place outside a business
meeting setting.
The timing of retreats concerned Keith - he noted that the mid-year retreat should be devoted to
setting projects for the following year (this June directed toward 1998), and the January retreat
would be focused on time lines, and priorities. Serious goal setting in June could be followed by
some reshuffling in January.
Davidson added that it makes sense to do major goal setting before setting the budget. Camfield
added that then the council can decided how far down the priority list funding will extend.
Perry-Thompson stated that January is also a time when new council members are just beginning
and it is a more difficult time to make funding decisions.
Welch said that although he agrees study sessions are a good idea, he is concerned that council
meetings will become even longer; he questioned whether consideration has been given for
continuing meetings which stretch to an unmanageable length.
McCulloch noted that the discussion of longer meetings vs. more meetings has been ongoing and
that the consensus has usually been to have fewer meetings and try to make more efficient use of
time. She suggested another option, which is to schedule a third meeting each month as a study
seSSIOn.
Perry Thompson added that she envisions council meetings becoming shorter as a result of study
sessions. If council members have a good understanding of the details of issues, it will be easier
to educate the public in a more abbreviated way.
Camfield asked how an extra meeting would affect staff, and whether the same staff members
would need to be present at study sessions as at business meetings.
Regarding timing of extra sessions, Davidson reminded that meetings were originally changed to
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February 18,1997
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Monday because ofthe Leader's publication deadline. He noted that continued meetings are
rarely by local television, and it would be important to show not just the first night of a two night
meeting if meetings were continued on a regular basis.
Keith recalled that the original suggestion had been for study sessions from 6 to 7 PM, with the
regular meeting following. McCulloch noted that 1-1/2 hours might be more realistic. Perry
Thompson stated that this might take the place of some committee meetings.
Jenks stated that many of the topics for study sessions would be quite general, and not as staff
intensive. She also suggested that business meeting agenda topics could be spread out more,
with fewer items covered at anyone meeting. She noted she was hoping council could do some
prioritization this evening for the first two or three study sessions. She added she has material
already for a substance abuse study session.
McCulloch summarized by saying there are two possible types of study sessions, one for business
items which will come up at a following meeting and one for general topics. The expectation
would be that regular business would shrink in time.
Public Works Director Bob Wheeler reminded council members that several extra meetings are
scheduled already for consideration of the new development regulations.
Perry Thompson stated she would like Y2 hour to bring council up to date on garbage issues from
the Housing and Community Services Committee.
McCulloch then suggested that the "committee of the whole" concept may be used as well. She
reiterated that whatever is done, the object should be to be more effective in part by eliminating
policy discussion in multiple meetings and again at the council meeting.
Jenks stated there are citizens who would like to hear some ofthe discussion, and if one of the
goals is to make council business meetings more efficient because we have educated ourselves,
our goals are to educate others as well. Camfield added that these meetings would all be public
meetings; Jenks said that is a reason to keep study sessions and business meetings on the same
night..
Welch noted that more television coverage of study sessions would lead to public understanding,
particularly if business meetings are shorter.
Jenks again asked if the first topics could be decided tonight. McCulloch noted that these will be
general study session workshops, and asked if there were interest in the other type, those geared
to an upcoming business meeting. Keith stated that type of meeting strikes him as unrealistic in
light of the amount of preparation that would be necessary.
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February 18,1997
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City Attorney Tim McMahan noted that the council would be unable to take up anything quasi-
judicial or any type of contract; he added that two weeks in advance is a bit long for staffto be
prepared, and it would probably be a rare instance where it would be useful. Jenks noted that
Council could attend Planning Commission meetings which are held on topics that will
eventually get to the council.
McMahan then supported the idea of fewer items going to individual committees and more to the
committee of the whole. Wheeler stated that in addition to educational sessions, there are
numerous master plans coming up which traditionally go to committees and where the discussion
would be beneficial to all council members.
Jenks endorsed the idea of the committee of the whole, particularly if it is remembered that the
reason is to lighten committee load, not to do the same amount of work in both venues. She
noted that citizens would benefit because all council members would be up to speed on these
issues and that would created a feeling of cohesiveness. McCulloch added that may be more
effective organization in terms of staff time as well, so that department heads could spend more
time with staff and less on committee meetings.
Jenks suggested criteria, i.e. if the subject will take a great deal oftime and discussion at a
regular meeting and ifthe quality of discussion would be improved by a study session ahead of
time, those would meet the goal of making business meetings more effective.
Camfield suggested that some of the stated goals for 1997 would be possible topics, for example,
office space needs. Jenks then suggested each council members state their first priority for a
study session discussion.
Keith noted he would like to discuss the last topic under "goals for 1997": Become more
effective in working together (council, mayor and staff) in order to better serve the citizens of
Port Townsend. He elaborated that the city has been adding on for some time and may not have
grown into the kind of structure one would actually design for a city of this size. In view of the
prospect of adding the engineering group, this might be a good time for someone outside the city
to look at the structure of the entire city and suggest changes before a new group of people come
in and encounter the same problems others have.
McCulloch added that this ties into the office space issue mentioned by other council members.
She agreed we need a vision of how we want organization of our structure as the city continues to
grow.
Jenks had two topics she put at the top of the list: 1) parliamentary procedure (pending copies of
Robert's Rules to all council members) and 2) methamphetamine abuse. She stated she has in
hand an excellent short video on the second subject and access to a longer one, parts of which
could be viewed.
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February 18,1997
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Camfield noted her first priority issue is office space and facility needs.
Perry Thompson stated all the previously mentioned topics would be critical for her as well, in
addition to finding effective ways to work together.
Welch concurred with Keith's choice, and added PEG community partnerships on education.
Davidson agreed that the organizational structure should be discussed, with particular emphasis
on issues related to space, and retaining key staff members.
McCulloch and Jenks agreed city department heads should be included in the process and/or
discussion.
Jenks then suggested another special meeting to order other topics priorities and dates.
It was agreed that a special study session would be set for Tuesday, March 25, at 7 PM to discuss
organizational structure and rank other priorities and assign meeting dates for them.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further discussion, Mayor McCulloch adjourned the meeting at 9:28 pm.
Attest:
e~ cf{ ~~
City Clerk
City Council Minutes
February 18,1997
Page 19