Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout101623 City Council Business Meeting MinutesCITY OF PORT TOWNSEND MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL BUSINESS MEETING OF OCTOBER 16, 2023 CALL TO ORDER/ PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE The Port Townsend City Council met in a Regular Session on the 16th day of October 2023 in Council Chambers at 540 Water Street. Mayor David Faber called the meeting to order at 6:01 pm. ROLL CALL Councilmembers present at roll call were David Faber, Amy Howard, Monica MickHager, Aislinn Palmer, Owen Rowe, Ben Thomas, and Libby Wennstrom. Staff members present were City Manager John Mauro, Planning and Community Development Director Emma Bolin , Long Range Planner Adrian Smith, Public Works Director Steve King , City Attorney Heidi Greenwood , Parks and Recreation Strategy Director Carrie Hite , and City Clerk Alyssa Rodrigues . CHANGES TO THE AGENDA Mayor Faber suggested moving Item "C" under New Business to before Ordinance 3321. Council members agreed. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS Friends of Libraries Week Mayor Faber presented the Friends of the Libraries Week Proclamation to Friends of the Port Townsend Library President Deb Vanderbilt and Second Vice Present Margaret Peterson. Mental Illness Awareness Week Mayor Faber presented the Mental Illness Awareness Week Proclamation to National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Program Manager Val Phimister. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT City Manager John Mauro presented the City Managers Report which included updates on Golf Course Contract, Jurassic Parliament training, Mill water shut down, street paving, and passing of Library Courier John Casper. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC Public comment October 16, 2023 City Council Business Meeting Page 1 of 9 Scott Walker spoke about parking policy reform. NAMI President of Jefferson County Patrick Johnson spoke about the Mental Illness Awareness Week Proclamation. City Staff Response CONSENT AGENDA Approval of Bills, Claims and Warrants Approval of Minutes: September 11, 2023, September 18, 2023 Resolution 23-050 Authorizing the City Manager to Execute all Agreements Necessary to Complete the 2025 Comprehensive Plan Periodic Review Connecting Housing to Infrastructure Program Grant Sponsorship for Affordable Housing Projects In response to Council's clarifying questions staff explained funding for 2025 Comprehensive Plan Periodic Review and how the city is helping nonprofits in Connecting Housing to Infrastructure Program. Motion: Monica MickHager moved to approve the consent agenda. Ben Thomas seconded. Vote: motion carried unanimously, 7-0 by voice vote. RESOLUTION 23-051 ADOPTING THE GATEWAY DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2023 SUPPLEMENTAL AS AN ADDITION TO THE SIMS GATEWAY PLAN Staff Presentation City Manager John Mauro introduced Resolution 23-051. Planning and Community Development Director Emma Bolin and Public Works Steve King presented Resolution 23-051 Adopting the Gateway Development Plan 2023 Supplemental as an Additional to the Sims Gateway Plan which included history, process, guidance, Stakeholder group, and PowerPoints. In response to Councils clarifying questions staff explained Poplar tree conflict/solution and City's role. Public Comment There was no public comment. Council Deliberation and Action October 16, 2023 City Council Business Meeting Page 2 of 9 Motion: Monica MickHager moved to approve Resolution 23-051 Adopting the Gateway Development Plan 2023 Supplement as an Addition to the Sims Gateway Plan. Aislinn Palmer seconded. Discussion ensued around previously done process, jurisdictions working well together, and benefits. Vote: motion carried unanimously, 7-0 by voice vote. PUBLIC HEARING- CONTINUED Ordinance 3321 Related to Clarifying and Refining the Sims Gateway Development Plan and Amending the Port Townsend Comprehensive Plan Mayor Faber reviewed the Public Hearing Rules of Procedure. City Manager John Mauro introduced Ordinance 3321. Long Range Planner Adrian Smith presented Ordinance 3321 Related to Clarifying and Refining the Sims Gateway Development Plan and Amending the Port Townsend Comprehensive Plan which included summary and purpose of amendments. Public Comment: There were no written materials submitted. There was no public comment. Discussion ensued around reason for leaving Public Hearing open previously. Mayor Faber closed the public testimony portion of the Hearing. Motion: Monica MickHager moved to approve Ordinance 3321 Related to Clarifying and Refining the Sims Gateway Development Plan and Amending the Port Townsend Comprehensive Plan. Owen Rowe seconded. Discussion ensued around the need to cut down Poplars. Mayor Faber closed the Public Hearing. Vote: motion carried unanimously, 7-0 by voice vote. Ordinance 3322 Related to the Annual Comprehensive Plan Amendments and Amending the Comprehensive Plan Official Zoning Map, The Port Townsend Comprehensive Plan Chapter 4 Land Use and Appendix 6 The Rainier Street and Upper Sims Way Subarea Plan Ordinance 3323 Implementing Annual Amendments to the Port Townsend Comprehensive Plan and Amending Port Townsend Municipal Code Chapters 17.12, 17.16, 17.18, 17.22, 17.31, and 17.44. Mayor Faber reviewed the Public Hearing Rules of Procedure. City Manager John Mauro introduced Ordinance 3322 and Ordinance 3323. Adrian Smith presented Ordinance 3322 Related to the Annual Comprehensive Plan Amendments and Amending the Comprehensive Plan Official Zoning Map, The Port Townsend Comprehensive Plan Chapter 4 Land Use and Appendix 6 The Rainier October 16, 2023 City Council Business Meeting Page 3 of 9 Street and Upper Sims Way Subarea Plan and Ordinance 3323 Implementing Annual Amendments to the Port Townsend Comprehensive Plan and Amending Port Townsend Municipal Code Chapter 17.12, 17.16, 17.18, 17.22, 17.31, and 17.44 which included Second Reading: 2023 Amendments to the Port Townsend Comprehensive Plan and Development Regulations which include Outline, Summary of Proposed Amendments, Height Definition Amendments, M/C Amendments Changes since 10/02, Neighborhood Mixed Use C-1/MU Amendments Changes since 10/02, Community Mixed Use C-II/MU Amendments Changes since 10/02, Questions from First Reading, Proposed Height Increase, Proposed C-1/MU: Height in Context, Proposed C-II/MU Height in Context, Comparing Existing Structures with Proposed Heights, Heights of Existing Buildings in Port Townsend, Building Height Exceptions: Current Code, Building Heigh Exceptions: Benefits, Building Height Exceptions: Disadvantages, Shade Cast by Building Based on Height, Shadow Comparison Based on Shadow Calculator.EU, Amendment Decision Criteria, and Cumulative Impact of All Proposed Amendments. Public Comment: There were no written materials submitted. Morningstar Garden spoke about Ready Athletics. Stephen Schumacher spoke about scale of buildings. Rick Jahnke spoke about shadow projections and Avamere Viki Sonntag spoke about scale of buildings. In response to Public Comment staff explained mid -rise buildings, zoning, trees and development, and Ready Athletics. In response to Council's clarifying questions staff explained Port Angeles and other city zoning changes/projects. Clarifying Public Comment: Stephen Schumacher spoke commercial corridor vs residential. Julia Cochrane spoke about elevators in relation to equity. Mayor Faber closed the public testimony portion of the Hearing. Discussion ensued around scrivener error, removing barriers to dense development, zoning history, expand flexibility, and human scale buildings term. Motion: Aislinn Palmer moved to approve Ordinance 3322 related to the Annual Comprehensive Plan Amendments and Amending the Comprehensive Plan Official Zoning Map, the Port Townsend Comprehensive flan Chapter 4 Land Use and Appendix 6 The rainier Street and Upper Sims Way Subarea ,Flan. Ben Thomas seconded. Discussion ensued around R -II zone density, conflict, and Comprehensive Plan changes. Vote: motion carried unanimously, 7-0 by voice vote. October 16, 2023 City Council Business Meeting Page 4 of 9 Motion: Monica MickHager moved to approve Ordinance 3323 Implementing Annual Amendments to the Port Townsend Comprehensive Plan and Amending Port Townsend Municipal Code Chapters 17. 1Z 17.16, 17.18, 17.22, 17.31, and 17.44. Aislinn Palmer seconded. Vote: motion carried unanimously, 7-0 by voice vote. NEW BUSINESS Final Healthier Together Report to Council City Manager John Mauro introduced the Final Healthier Together Report to Council. Parks and Recreation Strategy Director Carrie Hite, Opsis Architecture Project Manager Erica Dunn, and Opsis Architecture Partner Jim Kalvelage presented the Healthier Together Center Feasibility Study which included Agenda, Project Calendar, Facility Guiding Principles, Site Options, Site Analysis, Mtn View Context, Community Feedback on Site, Program Recommendation, Base Program Recommendation, Optional Program if Funding Allows, Alternate Site Amenities, Concept Design Recommendation, Expression of Community and Place, Mtn View Context, Base Site Plan, Full Build -Out Site Plan, Base Plan Building Area, Full Build -Out Plan Building Area, SW Aerial View, Entry Approach, Main Entry, Entry Lobby, Natatorium- View to NE, Natatorium -View to SW, Funding & Operations Recommendation, Capital Cost Summary, Service Areas, Operational Cost Summary, Operational + Capital Cost Summary, PFD vs. MPD, Funding Recommendation, and Next Steps. In response to Council's clarifying questions staff and consultants explained staffing plans, staff areas, Steering Committee recommendations, county wide initiative, PFD in charge, special election costs, who administers grants, who administers build, who will operate, future city budget responsibilities, interest, PFD responsibilities, amount borrowed, public restrooms, plan analysis, wind speed, and PFD votes. Public Comment: Jim Scarantino spoke about costs of Aquatic Center. Rowen DeLuna spoke about the importance of an Aquatic Center and Y involvement. Deborah Pedersen spoke about PFD logistics and public hygiene facilities. Jim Dow spoke about full build out of Aquatic Center. Dena Odell spoke about the dog park location. Julia Cochrane spoke about public showers. Scott Walker spoke about parking requirements. Morningstar Garden spoke about Aquatic Center costs and dog park location. Stephen Schumacher spoke about concerns with Aquatic Center plan. Kate Chadwick spoke about importance of learning to swim and support for Aquatic October 16, 2023 City Council Business Meeting Page 5 of 9 Center. Alden spoke about water therapy, Salish Rescue, and Aquatic Center. Council discussed community support, City's contribution, public showers, costs to maintain current facility, full build out, parking lot, taxes, MPD vs. PFD, unanswered questions, squeezed by timeline, workshop, too big, process, no vote tonight, county/city vote, #5 concern, Public Facilities Board RCW, City representative in governance, county timeline, postpone vote, governance board, ballot vs fundraising, orientation of building, parking, dog park, pool is essential, agreement with County, April Special Ballot, support in delaying, future meeting, November 13 Special Session, and tabling item. Motion: David Faber moved table this to a future meeting to be determined by him and John in discussions. Ben Thomas seconded. Vote: motion carried unanimously, 7-0 by voice vote. 2024 Budget Continuation- Consideration and Policy Direction Mr. Mauro introduced 2024 Budget Continuation -Consideration and Policy Direction. Finance and Technology Services Director Connie Anderson presented the 2024 Budget Continuation- Considerations and Policy Direction which included Overview, Remembering the Work: Coordinating Efforts & Timescales, Where Are We Headed, Budget Schedule: Preparing the 2024 Budget, Plans that Work Together, Strengthening our Financial Position, Financial Sustainability: Implementing the Plan, Financial Sustainability: Investing in Tools & People, Level of Service 2024 Staffing, Level of Service- 2024 Position Considerations, Policy Considerations, Policy Considerations, cont., and Council Direction and Discussion. In response to Council's clarifying questions staff explained Utility Tax and 1 % allowable amount and purpose of 1.5% utility tax. Public Comment: Morningstar Garden spoke about public utility tax. Council discussed property 1 % allowable increase, 1.5% Public Utility Tax, Public Utility Tax time limit, 1 % is an AWC top legislative priority, and moving forward with considerations. Authorizing the City Manager to Sign a Term Sheet with Grace Lutheran Church for Addressing Property Configuration, Easements, Access, Parking, and utilities Mr. Mauro introduced Authorizing the City Manager to Sign a Term Sheet with Grace Lutheran Church for Addressing Property Configuration, Easements, Access, Parking, and Utilities. Planning and Community Development Director Emma Bolin, City Attorney Heidi Greenwood, and Public Works Director Steve King presented the Authorizing the October 16, 2023 City Council Business Meeting Page 6 of 9 City Manager to Sign a Term Sheet with Grace Lutheran Church for Addressing Property Configuration, Easements, Access, Parking, and Utilities which included needing to get done regardless, equitable solution to parking, term sheet proposal, Term Sheet Exhibit, Church approval process, and purchase and sale agreement. Public Comment: Jim Scarantino spoke about moving forward with Cherry St and concerns with other projects. Morningstar Garden spoke about negotiating parking layout with church. Deborah Pederson spoke about vacating Cass Street and having a connector. In response to Public Comment staff explained Cass St Right of Way and parking lot costs. Discussion ensued map, average width of street, appreciation for creativity, and water line. Motion: Aislinn Palmer moved to approve the attached term sheet between the City and Grace Lutheran Church and Authorize the City Manager to Execute the Term Sheet and All Documents Necessary to Carry Out the Associated City's Responsibilities Therein. Libby Wennstrom seconded. Vote: motion carried unanimously, 7-0 by voice vote. Final Option Selection- Cherry Street Property Alternatives Mr. Mauro introduced Final Option Selection- Cherry Street Property Alternatives. Mr. King, Ms. Bolin, and Ms. Greenwood presented the Options for the Cherry Street House & Property presentation which included Presentation Objective, Desired Outcome, Background, Background- Why Demolish?, Current Property Condition, Previous 08/08/22 Property Configuration, New Information- Work with Consultant, New Information- Work with Church, New Information Zoning Changes, Property Development Requirements, Present Day Financials, Approximate Cost Factors - Looking Forward, Range of Options, Options Table, Staff Recommendation, and Timeline. In response to Council's clarifying questions staff explained Estimated City Investment in Option C and D, Option C bonus density, staff time for Option C and D, and Option D with incentives. Public Comment: Morningstar Garden spoke about giving property to Habitat for Humanity and real estate agent. Deborah Pederson spoke about property encroachment details, map, and egress. In response to Public Comment staff explained realtor, encroachment, and egress. Council discussed Option D and staff time, Option between C and D, offer process, importance of moving on, applying income to affordable housing, structuring offer, Option C, density, and multifamily tax emption boundaries. October 16, 2023 City Council Business Meeting Page 7 of 9 Motion: Libby Wennstrom moved to approve resolution 23-052 directing staff to schedule a public hearing to determine whether the Cherry Street property is surplus to the City's needs and directing the City Manager to determine if there are any future uses for the property. Monica MickHager seconded. Viae: motion carried unanimously, 7-0 by voice vote. Authorizing the City Manager to Enter into Contracts to Demolish the Carmel Building in an Amount not to Exceed $60,000. Mr. King presented Authorizing the City Manager to Enter into Contracts to Demolish the Carmel Building in an Amount not to Exceed $60,000 which included receiving a bid, unit bid contract, incorporating recycling, and dismantling process/timeline. Public Comment: There was no public comment. Motion: Ais/inn Palmer moved authorize the City Manager to Execute all Contracts Necessary to Complete the Carmel Building Demolition in an Amount not to Exceed $60,000. Libby Wennstrom seconded. Vote: motion carried unanimously, 7-0 by voice vote. Utility Tax and Sewer/Stormwater Rate Study Update Mayor Faber stated to watch the Council Finance and Budget Committee Meeting from October 4, 2023. UNFINISHED BUSINESS (NONE) PRESIDING OFFICER'S REPORT There was no Presiding Officer's report. SUGGESTIONS FOR NEXT OR FUTURE AGENDA, REGULAR MEETING AND/OR STUDY SESSION Council member Thomas recommended moving up parking change requests. Discussion ensued around tasking Planning Commission, staff time, discussion as Council, procedural steps, and January meeting. COMMENTS FROM COUNCIL There were no comments from Council. ADJOURN There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 11:08pm. Attest: October 16, 2023 City Council Business Meeting Page 8 of 9 Alyssa Rodrigues City Clerk October 1G.2023City Council Business Meeting Page 0of0