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HomeMy WebLinkAbout02211995MINUTES OF THE REGULAR SESSION OF FEBRUARY 21, 1995 The City Council of the City of Port Townsend met in regular session this Twenty-First day of February, 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, Ted Shoulberg, Bob Sokol, Sheila Westerman, and Diane Perry-Thompson. Also present were City Administrator Michael Hildt, City Attorney Tim McMahan, City Engineer Randy Brackett and Community Development Assistant Judy Erlandson. INTRODUCTIONS and/or RECOGNITIONS: Mayor John Clise introduced Paul Boyer, a new member of the Historic Preservation Commission. Mr. Boyer expressed his appreciating for being appointed to the commission. AGENDA CHANGES or ADDITIONS: There were no changed or additions to the agenda, at this time. CONSENT AGENDA Councilmember Sokol made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda as reviewed. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Perry-Thompson and passed unanimously by voice vote. Approval of the following Bills and Claims: 010 Current Expense 16,364.82 094 Garbage 38,765.10 110 Street 956.48 120 Library 243.96 130 Park 2,765.66 170 EMS 1,635.52 302 95 Stormwater Master Plan 3,517.50 310 92 Waste Water Treatment Plant Construction 1,016.25 311 95 Waste Water Biosolids Compost Facility 2,139.62 330 93 Water Quality Improvement 1,671.59 340 93 GO Bond Project 14.96 371 95 San Juan Ave. Improvements 10,115.46 374 95 WWT Plant Eng. 17,534.43 411 Water/Sewer 44,547.05 412 Storm and Surface Water 4,490.49 416 1956 SPCL Water Bond Reserve 2,475.76 500 Equipment Rental 3,213.48 610 Firemen's Pension and Relief 1,444.75 Total $152,912.88 Approval of Minutes: The minutes of January 17, 1995 were approved with corrections. Setting Hearings: For public hearing by the City Council at its March 20, 1995 meeting: Variance No. 9501- 05 applicants Levy and Butler. For public hearing by the City Council at its April 3, 1995 meeting: Variance No. 9501-01 applicants Wesenberg and Winters. Approval of Appointments: John T. Baker and Victor A. Colacurcio to Parks Board until January 1, 1997. Zelia Jensen, Jordan Pollack & Bob Giesler to Community Oriented Policing Advisory Committee. Approval of Resolutions: Authorization to apply for Centennial Clean Water Gram. RESOLUTION NO. 95-16 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO SIGN AND SUBMIT APPLICATIONS FOR GRANTS FROM THE CENTENNIAL CLEAN WATER FUND FOR A WATER QUALITY IMPLEMENTATION PLAN FOR BASIN 4, WELLHEAD PROTECTION PLAN, SEWER COMPREHENSIVE PLAN, AND THREE WATERSHED PROJECTS INCLUDING GROUNDWATER QUALITY 2 ASSESSMENT, EDUCATION PROGRAM, AND INSTREAM FLOW PROGRAM. Authorization to apply for Public Works Trust Fund Monies. RESOLUTION NO. 95-17 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO SIGN AND SUBMIT APPLICATIONS FOR LOW-INTEREST LOANS THROUGH THE PUBLIC WORKS TRUST FUND FOR WATER SYSTEM PROJECTS NECESSARY TO MEET THE CT AND SAFE DRINKING WATER ACT REQUIREMENTS IN THE CITY AND TRI-AREA. Authorization to apply for San Juan Ave Improvements Grants. RESOLUTION NO. 95-18 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO SIGN GRANT PROPOSALS FOR OBTAINING 1996-97 FEDERAL AND STATE FUNDING TO ASSIST THE CITY IN RECONSTRUCTING SAN JUAN AVENUE. Authorization to apply for Grants for FCAPP Basin #4 Implementation, RESOLUTION NO. 95-19 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO SIGN GRANT APPLICATIONS WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF ECOLOGY FOR STORMWATER COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING AND FLOOD CONTROL. Water Latecomer Agreement - Steven H, W01cott. RESOLUTION NO. 95-26 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND AUTHORIZING A LATECOMER UTILITY CONTRACT PURSUANT TO RCW 35.91 Sewer Latecomer Agreement - Steven H. Wolcott, RESOLUTION NO. 95-20 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND AUTHORIZING A LATECOMER UTILITY CONTRACT PURSUANT TO RCW 35.91 Water Latecomer Agreement - James & Vannie Irvin. RESOLUTION NO. 95-21 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND AUTHORIZING A LATECOMER UTILITY CONTRACT PURSUANT TO RCW 35.91 Land Purchase Agreement with Fred Willeiksen, RESOLUTION NO. 95-22 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO SIGN AN AGREEMENT WITH FRED WILLIAM WlLLEIKSEN, REGARDING THE PURCHASE OF LAND IN THE CITY AND AUTHORIZING THE ACTING TREASURER TO ISSUE WARRANTS FOR THE PURCHASE OF THE LAND IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE AGREEMENT. Land Purchase Agreement with Brian Regan. RESOLUTION NO. 95-23 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO SIGN AN AGREEMENT WITH BRIAN J. REGAN, REGARDING THE PURCHASE OF LAND IN THE CITY AND AUTHORIZING THE ACTING TREASURER TO ISSUE WARRANTS FOR THE PURCHASE OF THE LAND IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE AGREEMENT. Authorization to Continue Contract for Leak Detection in City Water Lines for One Year RESOLUTION NO. 95-24 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO SIGN A CONTRACT AGREEMENT WITH UTILITY SERVICES ASSOCIATION, INC. FOR LEAK DETECTION SERVICES ON APPROXIMATELY 25 MILES OF WATER MAIN PIPELINES. Resolution Fixing a time for Street Vacation Application 9411-03 for 3-20-95. RESOLUTION NO. 95-25 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND FIXING THE TIME FOR HEARING ON A PETITION FOR A STREET VACATION. 4 Communications: A notice dated January 31, 1995, from Washington State Auditor Brian Sonntag, to Mayor, City Attorney, Clerk-Treasurer, of the official post audit report of the City of Port Townsend for period of January 1, 1992 through December 31, 1993. A letter dated February 1, 1995, from Janet Ray, Director Communications and Government Relations of AAA Washington, to Mayor, in appreciation for the City's participation in their Pedestrian Protection Program survey last year. A letter dated February 2, 1995, from Commissioner Vernon E. Stoner, Washington Employment Security Department, to Mayor, in appreciation for the City's continued support. A letter dated February 4, 1995, from Steve Cooper Construction, Inc, to City Council Members, regarding sewer permit renewal fees and process, requesting review and revision of the process. A letter dated February 8, 1995, from Joseph E. Brann, Director, Community Oriented Policing Services, U.S. Department of Justice, to Mayor, notifying that the jurisdiction has been selected to receive a COPS FAST grant award to hire 1 new and additional officer. A letter dated February 5, 1995, from Carl M. Allen, to City Council, in favor of a home occupation operated at 2519 Seaview Drive, his former residence. A letter dated February 9, 1995, from Barbara Williams, President, Family and Friends, to City Council, regarding their State Housing Trust Fund award. Three letters dated February 9, 1995, from Mayor to Representative Jim Buck, Representative Lynn Kessler and Senator Jim Hargrove, regarding Initiative 164 and House Bill 1026. Letter dated February 10, 1995 from Jeff Benoit, Director, Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, and Terry Husseman, Deputy Director, Ecology, to Councilmembers, regarding the Focus Meeting schedule for the proposed Northwest Straits National Marine Sanctuary. A letter dated February 16, 1995 from Mayor, to Representative Jim Buck, regarding House Bill 1617. A letter dated February 14, 1995 from Bart Philips, to Mayor and City Council, in opposition to the Accessory Dwelling Unit Ordinance. This concludes the Consent Agenda. 5 There were none. PUBLIC COMMENTS PUBLIC HEARINGS City Administrator Michael Hildt introduced the Accessory Dwelling Unit Ordinance, citing escalating housing costs in this community, explaining the existing points of residential code (number of people allowed in a single unit for example), and that the intent of this ordinance to allow individuals the choice to rent out part of their house or part of an outbuilding. Mr. Hildt stated that the central purpose of the ordinance is to reduce regulation and allow people additional options for meeting their housing needs without resorting to government assistance. And although this is not seen as the single solution, Mr. Hildt stated that it should provide a contribution to solving the problem of high cost housing. Mr. Hildt explained further that the ordinance allows a way for existing rentals to be inspected for safety issues. Mr. Hildt reviewed the public process. Councilmembers discussed the ordinance. Two corrections were pointed out by Councilmember Perry-Thompson: Section 3, item no. 2, effective date of the zoning code was incorrectly written as August 17, 1991, and was corrected to read August 17, 1971; and Section 3, Exception for Legal, nonconforming accessory dwelling units, statement reading "...the ADU may continue without compliance with subparagraphs 2 - 4..." should read ... "subparagraphs 2 & 4..." The hearing was opened to public comment. Bart Philips, 1105 Taylor, stated his opposition to the ordinance as written. Mr. Philips stated that he has three ADUs adjacent to his home in uptown area and he expressed his concern that it raises population density in areas without off street parking, narrow streets, and an increasing number of cars, and that the ordinance sets up a means of enforcement for safety issues, which he doesn't believe can be correctly implemented. Mr. Philips requested that councilmembers take a careful look and consider whether this will really provide affordable housing. Councilmembers continued their discussion. ORDINANCE NO. 2448 AN ORDINANCE PERTAINING TO ZONING; DEFINING AND ALLOWING ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS UNDER CERTAIN PRESCRIBED CONDITIONS IN THE R-i, R-lA AND P-1 ZONING DISTRICTS; AMENDING SECTION 17.16.010, ADDING NEW SECTIONS TO THE PORT TOWNSEND MUNICIPAL CODE AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE THEREFOR. Mr. Hildt read the ordinance by title. Councilmember Shoulberg made a motion that the first reading be considered the second and the third be by title only which was seconded by 6 Councilmember Sokol and passed unanimously by voice vote. Mr. Hildt again read the ordinance by title. Councilmember Shoulberg made a motion that the Council adopt Ordinance No. 2448 with corrections (1991 to 1971 and 2-4 to 2&4) which was seconded by Councilmember Perry- Thompson and passed unanimouSly by roll call vote. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN COMMITTEE REPORTS Economic Development. Councilmember Sokol stated that this is the final report for this committee, as they met last Wednesday and completed their draft goals and policies. Councilmember Sokol noted that staff Planner Eric Toews will be adding a flow chart showing the implementation schedule. Glue and String Committee. Councilmember Harpole stated that they have not found a note taker for the Housing committee yet. Capital Facilities. Councilmember McCulloch reported the committee met on February 7 and reviewed the updates to stormwater and sewer proposals. Councilmember McCulloch stated that the capital facilities information has been distributed to council packets for the February 22 meeting. Housing. Councilmember Perry-Thompson reported the committee is close to finalizing their goals and policies and which is what they hope to accomplish at the next meeting on Wednesday February 22. Land Use. Councilmember Davidson reports the committee is very close to finishing their goals and policies, and a meeting will be scheduled in the next few weeks. Transportation. Councilmember Westerman reported on the committee meeting two weeks past, in which they discussed the criteria for street development standards, transit levels of service, and the San Juan Avenue project. Councilmember Westerman reminded the council of the March 2 joint meeting with the school board, 7 p.m. at the fairgrounds, at which the engineers will present the San Juan Avenue Conceptual Plan. STANDING/ADHOC COMMITTEE REPORTS Finance Committee. Councilmember McCulloch stated the committee met on February 15 and discussed the chevy van transfer to the County Animal Services. Councilmember McCulloch stated that the Family and Friends non-profit is forming a house for independent living for four developmentally disabled and challenged adults, they are looking for more community support and are requesting a donation of any city permit fees up to a maximum of $1,000, with a resolution to be presented at the next council meeting. Councilmember McCulloch made a motion that the 7 City contribute this support and that the resolution be prepared for the March 6 meeting, which was seconded by Councilmember Shoulberg. PUBLIC COMMENTS/QUESTIONS Mayor Clise suggested a public comments period be held now so that the representative of Family and Friends currently in attendance could speak and not have to wait for a later vote. Barbara Williams of Family & Friends explained they have a house they are looking at for purchase, and she thanks the Councilmembers for their support. VOTE ON MOTIONS MADE DURING COMMITTEE/STAFF REPORTS The Mayor called for a vote on the motion regarding support of Family & Friends, which was passed unanimously by voice vote. STANDING/ADHOC COMMITTEE REPORTS, Continued Parks. Recreation and Property. Councilmember Harpole reported the next meeting is scheduled for February 22 at 11:00, as a working session with some of the councilmembers, to describe the 35th Street property project. Councilmember Harpole stated that another meeting is scheduled for 4:00 Friday February 24 to prioritize the capital facilities list for the swimming pool, discuss a memo from Jim Farmer regarding parks objectives, and the Magnet Center design class for Adams Street Park design options. Councilmember Harpole provided information about new projects for the committee, with a meeting scheduled for March 10, 4 pm to 6 pm to review the golf course lease, the Arts Commission Pope Marine Park building requests, the topic of signs in City parks, and information kiosks, with another meeting two weeks later to discuss the skateboard park. Utili .ty Committee. Councilmember Shoulberg reported the next meeting is scheduled for March 7, 1:15. MAYOR's REPORT Mayor Clise informed the Councilmembers that he would not to be attending the March 6 council meeting, so Councilmember McCulloch will chair that meeting, and she will also attend the FEMA disaster training. Mayor Clise reported that he went to Olympia today to testify on Initiative 164, but so many others were there he didn't get time to testify. Mayor Clise expected the legislature probably will go forward with bill, although there is some opposition to it. Mayor Clise requested a Council priority setting meeting be scheduled, and they tentatively set the meeting for Thursday March 16. 8 STAFF REPORTS City Administrator. Michael Hildt reports extraordinary accident and insurance claims over the last several weeks. Mr. Hildt stated the Safety committee is starting to do accident follow up investigations to determine if any training or other means can be implemented to help prevent acCidents. Mr. Hildt also reported that he will be out of the office next week. Attorney's Office. City Attorney Tim McMahan reported that the problem with data sharing with the County has been solved, and that all restrictions were removed. Mr. McMahan stated that the property rights House bill passed last week, and now goes to the Senate, and also reported the Land Use Bar Association chapter states this would eliminate zoning. Mr. McMahan stated the Office of Financial Management is studying fiscal impacts, and so far only 14 jurisdictions surveyed, but the estimated compensation impacts would amount to $2. 7 million per annum, which is evidence showing a dramatic impact on municipalities like Port Townsend which is currently trying to balance economic development and regulation. Public Works. City Engineer Randy Brackett reported on the San Juan Avenue core samples being taken, design refinements are in the works, they are preparing SEPA permit now, draft copy is due out this week for Building & Community Development review. Mr. Brackett has been preparing grant applications, one more is left to be drafted, and he is hoping for more funding. Mr. Brackett noted the joint meeting with the school board and public for San Juan conceptual plan presentation on March 2 at fairgrounds, stating the plan would then go to Council meeting on March 6. Mr. Brackett stated the deadline is September for major improvements (when middle school opens), and that this Council meeting should be "continued" to the February Capital Facilities Council meeting, which then should be continued to the following Council meeting on March 6. Mr. Brackett reported the work on installing baffles on the 5 million gallon reservoir at Howard Street continues and it will remain empty through the first week of March. Police Department. Michael Hildt, Civil Service Examiner, reported on the civil service testing for police officers, noting the physical testing was first, which left 43 applicants for the written testing, then the oral boards scheduled for the following Saturday, February 18 and Friday, February 24. Mr. Hildt delivered the score sheets to Seattle on Monday so he expected the results and oral boards notification to applicants who are qualified by Friday. Mr. Hildt stated the Civil Service commission meets on March 7, and the list of oral board certifications will be reviewed, then soon after a police officer to be hired. PUBLIC COMMENTS/QUESTIONS Mayor Clise moved this to the Finance Committee report section. VOTE ON MOTIONS MADE DURING COMMITTEE/STAFF REPORTS 9 Mayor Clise moved this to the Finance Committee report section. UNFINISHED BUSINESS There was no unfinished business. NEW BUSINESS Ordinance Establishing Salary for Recreation Program Director. This item was held until later in the meeting. Ordinance Amending PTMC Chapter 3.36~ Permit & Application Fees Section 020, Public Works Service Fee Schedule. ORDINANCE NO. 2449 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND AMENDING THE PORT TOWNSEND MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 3.36, PERMIT AND APPLICATION FEES, SECTION 020, PUBLIC WORKS SERVICE FEE SCHEDULE, AUTHORIZING THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT TO CHARGE WATER SYSTEM EVALUATION AND PROJECT REVIEW AND APPROVAL FEES FOR OUT OF CITY WATER CUSTOMERS. Mr. Hildt read the ordinance by title. 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 Davidson made a motion that the Council adopt Ordinance No. 2449 with corrections which was seconded by Councilmember Perry-Thompson and passed unanimously by roll call vote. Resolution Authorizing Conveyance of 1983 Chevy Van Title to Jefferson County Animal Services, RESOLUTION NO. 95-27 RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PORT TOWNSEND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO CONVEY TITLE OF A 1983 CHEVROLET VAN TO THE JEFFERSON COUNTY ANIMAL SERVICES FOR PUBLIC USE. Councilmember McCulloch made a motion that the council adopt Resolution No. 95-27 which was 10 seconded by Councilmember Sokol and passed unanimously by voice vote. EXECUTIVE SESSION Mayor Clise recessed the meeting into Executive Session at 9:25 p.m. to discuss property acquisition and litigation. The meeting was reconvened at 10:26 p.m. COUNCILMEMBERS GENERAL DISCUSSION Ordinance Establishing Salary for Recreation Program Director and Pool Manager, Councilmembers discussed the ordinance and decided that since the Pool Manager position is full time, the monthly salary should be increased from $800.00 per month to $1,733.33 per month. ORDINANCE NO. 2450 ESTABLISHING SALARY FOR RECREATION PROGRAM DIRECTOR AND POOL MANAGER AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. Mr. Hildt read the ordinance by title. 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 Sokol made a motion that the Council adopt Ordinance No. 2450 as amended (Section 2, $800.00 per month changed to $1,733.33 per month) which was seconded by Councilmember McCulloch and passed unanimously by roll call vote. RECESS There being no further business, at 10:50 p.m., Councilmember Shoulberg made a motion that the meeting be recessed until 1:30 p.m. on February 22, 1995, which was seconded by Councilmember Davidson and passed unanimously by voice vote. MINUTES OF THE CONTINUED SESSION OF FEBRUARY 21, 1995 The City Council of the City of Port Townsend met in continued session this Twenty-second day of February, 1995, at 1:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers of City Hall, for a workshop presentation of the Capital Facilities support document by the consulting firm Henderson, Young & Company, Mayor John Clise presiding. ROLL CALL Councilmembers present at Roll Call were Dan Harpole, Julie McCulloch, Diane Perry- 11 Thompson, Ted Shoulberg, Robert Sokol, Sheila Westerman, and Bill Davidson. Also present were City Administrator Michael Hildt, Building & Community Development Director Dave Robison, Public Works Director Bob Wheeler, Fire Chief Howard Scott, Administrative Assistant Pam Kolacy, Public Works consultant, Collette Kostelac and Consultants Bill Henderson and Randy Young of Henderson & Young. Members of the public present were Lisa Enarson, Ella Sandvig, Bud VanDerVorst, Lloyd Cahoon. CAPITAL FACILITIES PLAN UPDATE Mr. Hildt presented a brief introduction of the documents under consideration (Capital Facilities Support Document and Revenue Sources for Capital Facilities) developed by City staff and the Henderson & Young consulting firm. Mr. Hildt noted that the purpose of today's meeting was not to make decisions regarding recommendations for capital facilities projects, but to get the Councilmembers comfortable with the numbers and the format of the documents before them. Bill Henderson and Randy Young conducted a session explaining the format of the Support Document and Revenue Sources document, including explanations of Growth Management Act (GMA) overview, how figures were derived, and the relationship between narrative and tables in the Support Document. Discussion was held on several specific items in the plan. ANNOUNCEMENTS The next workshop meeting on this subject was set for Monday, March 13, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. in Council Chambers. RECESS There being no further business, at 4:30 p.m. Councilmember McCulloch made a motion that the meeting be recessed until 7:00 p.m. on March 2, 1995, which was seconded by Councilmember Harpole and passed unanimously by voice vote. MINUTES OF THE CONTINUED SESSION OF FEBRUARY 21, 1995 The City Council of the City of Port Townsend met in continued session this Second day of March, 1995, at 7:00 p.m. in a joint meeting with the Port Townsend School Board, at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds Arts & Crafts building, Mayor Pro Tem Julie McCulloch presiding. ROLL CALL 12 Councilmembers present at Roll Call were Diane Perry-Thompson, Sheila Westerman, Julie McCulloch and Bill Davidson. Also present were Public Works Director Bob Wheeler, City Engineer Randy Brackett, Deputy Clerk Vera Franz, City Attorney Tim McMahan, Building & Community Development Director Dave Robison, and Community Development Assistant Judy Erlandson. Representatives of the Port Townsend School District and School Board were Bruce McComas, Kathy Walker and Superintendant Gene Medina. Members of the public present were, Charles Enfield, Del Kuehnel, Nancy Schrader, Timothy Witten, Yvonne Starkey, Dale Bonar, Jane Rebelowski, Lloyd Hansen, D.K. Mead, T.J. Mead, Scott Walker, A1 Youse, Sandra Youse, Madeline Ellis, Bonzo DeLeo, LeRoy Glessing, Jim Franken, Megan Bailey, Frank Brin, Jeff Hamm. INTRODUCTIONS Councilmember McCulloch provided introductions of the members of the City Council, members of the School Board, and representatives of the Perteet Engineering design team. Councilmember McCulloch explained that the purpose of this meeting is to review the conceptual plan for the San Juan Avenue improvements project, and receive public comments, and that there will be no action by the Council at this time. BACKGROUND City Engineer Randy Brackett reviewed the background of the San Juan Avenue improvements project, noting that plans were being discussed to upgrade the arterial even prior to the construction of the Blue Heron Middle School. Mr. Brackett described the federal funding being provided in grants for this project, including a regional allocation with annual funding of a certain level jointly to Jefferson Transit, the Port Townsend School District, and the City which could be used for this project. Mr. Brackett stated that there are matching funds requirements and certain features are required to fit the federal standards, so this project must meet both community needs and federal criteria for use of these funds. Perteet Engineering was hired to provide the needed expertise and staff to handle the project, Mr. Brackett explained, and two public design workshops have been held with Perteet representatives at which valuable public input was received. PHASE I PROJECT SCHEDULE Mr. Brackett displayed a schedule chart for this project, noting that the project completion has been scheduled for August 6, a month earlier than the opening of the middle school, which will allow for any delays that may occur. Mr. Brackett said that the final design is due by the end of March, at which time the construction will begin. 13 CONCEPTUAL PLAN Kevin Weed and Dan Hansen from Perteet Engineering made the presentation. Mr. Weed described the design of the section of San Juan Avenue in front of the middle school, and the design planned for the left turn lane from F street onto San Juan Avenue, with bus pullouts as requested by Jefferson Transit. Mr. Weed stated that bike lanes five feet wide will be included on both sides of the street, and buffer areas have been left where possible, with bofiltration swale landscaping designed for best management practices to handle road water runoff. Mr. Weed explained the measurment of the bike lanes is from the upright edge of the curb, and the right-of-way is narrowed in some places to allow for the bike lanes and sidewalks, but where possible, the sidewalks are at a distance from the edge of the street with landscape buffers between. Mr. Weed described the speed tables planned for the area in front of the middle school, which will be employed along with stripping and signage to designate the school speed zone of 15mph. The speed tables as defined by Mr. Weed are a new design of the familiar speed bump, with a three inch incline, ten foot wide flat top area, and a six foot wide incline/decline transition on each side. Mr. Weed added that the cross walks will be stripped directly on top of each of the speed tables, which will provide additional visibility for children crossing the street, and will be wheelchair compatible. Kevin Weed continued his presentation, stating that as the public requested, the on-street parking has been removed from the San Juan Avenue design which will make the bike lanes safer. Mr. Weed explained that other options are being discussed for off-street parking including the possible use of one of the school lots, and an improved parking area at the skating rink. Mr. Weed remarked that the area along the cemetery will have to be narrowed due to the proximity of grave sites to the right-of-way. He also explained that storm drains located in the curb gutters may limit bike lanes to 3.5 feet in some spots, but that the gutters may be reduced from 18 inches to 12 inches, the minimum allowable, which would allow the asphalt area of the bike lanes to be 4 feet wide. Mr. Weed continued with his presentation of the conceptual plan, and reviewed the results of the public surveys, which confirmed that bike ways and walk ways are most important. FUTURE PHASES Kevin Weed discussed the funding application for phase 2, which covers the section of San Juan Avenue from 19th street to F street. Mr. Weed stated that aerial photos have been taken of the entire street, and that geotechnical and environmental testing is done. 14 PUBLIC COMMENTS/QUESTIONS Councilmember McCulloch opened the meeting to public questions and comments at this time, prior to the public testimony section, to allow for clarification as needed. Dale Bonar questioned the effect of the speed tables on vehicles pulling trailers, like horse trailers going to the fairgrounds. Mr. Weed stated that vehicles pulling trailers may have to slow down to less than 15 mph, but all other vehicles would be able to negotiate the speed tables safely at 15 mph. Several individuals expressed concerns about the project encroaching on private property. City Engineer Randy Brackett addressed those concerns, noting that some fence lines for example, may actually be in the right-of-way. Bob Wheeler stated that trees existing in the right-of-way will be saved as much as possible in the citing of walkways. PUBLIC TESTIMONY Alan Youse, owner of property at the corner of 45th and San Juan, expressed his concern about the large fir trees at the edge of his property, stating that road work would damage and possibly kill the trees. Mr. Youse also expressed his concern for wildlife crossings, suggesting some kind of underground tunnel or culvert, and he also suggested additional mid-street crosswalks for pedestrians. Mr. Wheeler confirmed that the trees will be considered in the design of the street and walkways in that area, but added that studies have shown that crosswalks placed at mid-street are not safe since traffic does not always see or acknowledge the crossings. Scott Walker, expressed concerns about the radius of corners where streets intersect San Juan Avenue. Mr. Walker believes that the 25 foot radius proposed is too large, because vehicles can make the turns at higher speeds, which combined with the extra crossing distances mke the intersections less safe for pedestrians. Chuck Enfield, owner of the comer property adjacent to the golf course at F street and San Juan Avenue believes that there should be more crosswalks, that the hawthorne trees at the edge of the right-of-way along his property be saved and incorporated in the street landscaping, and that access to his property be considered. Yvonne Starkey stated that she would rather see the school crosswalks located between the two speed tables, rather than directly on top of them, and she believes that this would be a safer option. Kevin Weed of Perteet Engineering addressed Ms. Starkey's concern, stating that public testimony will be considered, as well as studies from other cities, and the best design for safety will be used. Scott Walker noted that pedestrians will be raised 3 inches up into view of drivers if the crosswalks are located on top of the speed tables. 15 Dale Bonar, a property owner in the NorthBeach area with a child going into the middle school, is concerned about San Juan Avenue being the only arterial through this area. Mr. Bonar stated that he is opposed to the speed bumps due to traffic volume, and the difficulty that vehicles pulling trailers have getting over the bumps safely. Mr. Bonar requests the effect on traffic be considered since it is affected all year and school is in session only 180 days a year. Additional opinions were given in opposition and in favor of the speed tables. Jeff Hamm of Jefferson Transit voiced his support of the project, stating that he likes the bus pull- outs and he believes that kids are the most frequent users of the transit system. Timothy Witten of CH2M HILL expressed his apreciation for the bike lanes being planned, and said that he would like to encourage the 12 inch gutters (instead of 18 inch) to allow for 4 feet of usable bike lane. Mr. Witten compared the planned bike lanes to those recently created on Kearney street, which are too narrow for safe riding. Alan Youse spoke a second time, suggesting that biofiltration swales could be incorporated on private property without hurting the homeowners property. Bob Wheeler addressed this suggestion, stating the City would have to arrange for easements and maintenance agreements. Mr. Youse stated that he would be interested in making an arrangement for use of the trees along the edge of his property, and he said he would generally prefer open area with grass rather than shrubs for the landscape buffers due to animals hiding in bushes and then darting across unsafely. Mr. Youse said he believes that locating a school on an arterial is not a great idea, but now that the school is on San Juan Avenue, that the safety of the children is the most important, and therefore the speed tables are a good idea. Mr. Youse made a suggestion to use gravel around trees for the walkways to eliminate damage from concrete, and allow water to reach roots. Councilmember Westerman stated that she would be in favor of property and maintenance easements if it is a way of saving more of the trees along the avenue. Director of Public Works Bob Wheeler confirmed that these public comments will be considered within the scope of the project, which is to improve the street and add bicycle and pedestrian facilities. Sandy Youse expressed her concern about the site distances, particularly on the section of San Juan Avenue from 45th street to 47th street, which are dangerously poor due to the slope of the street. Ms. Youse stated that due to the limited visibility, crossing at this point is very dangerous, and she requested that the possibility of a speed bump in this area be considered. Councilmember McCulloch closed the public testimony portion of this meeting. CITY COUNCIL AND SCHOOL BOARD DISCUSSION 16 Mr. Brackett explained the standards for street corner radii, and Mr. Weed stated that these standards must be met to qualify for federal funding. Kathy Walker, Port Towsend School Board, requested that the portion of San Juan Avenue directly in front of the new middle school be fully constructed first, to ensure that it is completed before school starts. Mr. Wheeler explained that it would not be practical to separate that section from the whole project due to construction scheduling requirements, and because the bike lanes and walk ways would end abruptly. Superintendent Gene Medina expressed his concern about the 450 students getting into the school if construction was not completed before the term begins in September. Mr. Brackett stated that mitigation wil be written into the agreement with the school district, and issues about traffic control and safety will be addressed. Mr. Weed confirmed that a traffic control person would be made avialable to usher students through the construction areas on the street if it becomes necessary. Councilmember Westerman pointed out that traffic control is expensive, as demonstrated on the Kearney Street project, so it is important that the City and the School Board work together to keep the project on track, even with the contingency for traffic control. Councilmember Westerman stated that in her work on the Transportation Committee she has read about the new speed tables being used frequently now, and that the design does not cause a problem for vehicles the way the old style speed bumps do. Councilmember Westerman suggested that the new speed table design be implemented in this project, and tested in actual use, then any problems that may arise can be dealt with. Councilmember McCulloch asked the school board members their opinions on the crosswalks being located on top of the speed tables, and they each confirmed that they belived it would be a good idea. Councilmember McCulloch also requested additional research be done on the subject of biking safety at intersections as it applies to the placement of left turn and right turn pockets. Councilmember McCulloch noted that the conceptual design will be considered in a resolution at the Council meeting on Monday, March 6, so the public is welcome to comment at that meeting also, and the project will be added as a priority item for 90 % design review at the April 3 Council meeting. Councilmember McCulloch also noted that the SEPA (State Environmental Protection Act) process will provide additional opportunity for public comments. ADJOURNMENT' There being no further business, at 10:05 p.m., Councilmember McCulloch adjourned the 17 meeting. Julie McCulloch, Mayor Pro Tem Attest: Michael Hildt, Acting City Clerk 18