HomeMy WebLinkAboutITEM V-A-1
CITY COUNCIL
MEETING MINUTES
FEBRUARY 2, 2009 7:30 PM
I.
CALL TO ORDER
A. Flag Salute
Mayor Peter B. Lewis called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. and
led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance.
B. Roll Call
Mayor Lewis and the following Councilmembers were present:
Rich Wagner, Sue Singer, Gene Cerino, Nancy Backus, Bill
Peloza, Lynn Norman, and Virginia Haugen.
Staff members present included: Risk Manager Rob Roscoe,
Information Services Director Lorrie Rempher, Chief of Police Jim
Kelly, City Attorney Daniel B. Heid, Public Works Director Dennis
Dowdy, Finance Director Shelley Coleman, Parks, Arts and
Recreation Director Daryl Faber, Planning, Building and
Community Director Cindy Baker, and Deputy City Clerk Cathy
Richardson.
C. Announcements and Appointments
1. Announcements
a) Auburn Professional Plaza Update by Jeff
Oliphant
Developer Jeff Oliphant thanked Mayor Lewis and
Councilmembers for their attendance at the ground
breaking for the Auburn Professional Plaza which
was held on January 2, 2009. Mr. Oliphant reported
that more than 150 people were in attendance in
spite of the inclement weather. The demolition is now
complete and construction of the foundation will begin
later this week. The project is on target for
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City of Auburn Council Meeting Minutes February 2, 2009
completion of the main part of the building in
November 2009 after which tenant improvements will
begin. Mr. Oliphant noted that the project is
producing in excess of 200 full time jobs for a period
of approximately one year, including construction,
design, and other aspects of the project. Mr. Oliphant
estimated approximately 90% of the jobs are in the
local economy which provides a ripple effect that
could support as many as 500-600 local jobs, which
in turn supports the general economy.
Mr. Oliphant stated that there was a sign on one of
the demolished taverns located at 1 East Main which
was written in gold leaf and is quite old. That is the
address of the project and he will be incorporating
that sign into the building. Also found was an
exceptionally old survey marker depicted by a stone
“X” located in the street approximately 3-4 feet down
st
at the corner of Auburn Avenue and 1 Street. It is
one of the first stone markers, dates back to when the
City of Auburn was first platted as the Town of
Slaughter, and is approximately 120 years old.
2. Appointments
There was no appointment for Council consideration.
D. Agenda Modifications
There was no agenda modification.
II. CITIZEN INPUT, PUBLIC HEARINGS & CORRESPONDENCE
A. Public Hearings
No public hearing was scheduled for this evening.
B. Audience Participation
This is the place on the agenda where the public is invited to speak
to the City Council on any issue. Those wishing to speak are
reminded to sign in on the form provided.
Darrel Shiley, PO Box 2374, Auburn
Mr. Shiley stated that he lives on A Street NE but also owns a
th
condominium at 37 and M Streets where the City recently
reconstructed the road and installed sidewalks. Mr. Shiley
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City of Auburn Council Meeting Minutes February 2, 2009
indicated that he responded to a notice from the City requesting
public comments related to the project. He requested that the
sidewalks on the east side of M Street be extended to the curb and
was told that the sidewalks were currently installed to City
standards. Mr. Shiley expressed his disappointment.
C. Correspondence
There was no correspondence for Council review.
III. COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS
A3.7.6
Municipal Services
A.
Chair Cerino reported that the Municipal Services Committee met
on January 26, 2009 at 4:00 pm. The Committee discussed
emergency preparedness related to the condition of Howard
Hanson Dam. The Committee also discussed the Municipal
Services Committee matrix. The next regular meeting of the
Municipal Services Committee is scheduled for February 9, 2009 at
4:00 p.m.
Planning & Community Development
B.
Chair Norman reported that the Planning and Community
Development Committee met on January 26, 2009 at 5:00 p.m.
The Committee approved Resolution No. 4441. The Committee
also received a report from Transportation, Transit and Trails
Committee Chair Roger Thordarson, and discussed A Frame signs
and related code changes and Environmental District/Green Zone
development. The next regular meeting of the Planning and
Community Development Committee meeting is scheduled for
February 9, 2009 at 5:00 p.m.
Public Works
C.
Chair Wagner reported that the Public Works Committee met this
afternoon at 3:00. The Committee approved a Right of Way Use
Permit and discussed Ordinance No. 6223, Resolution No. 4445,
and a proposed loading door tax. The Committee also received a
report on the federalization of the stimulus projects and discussed
the code update projects and truck parking in a particular location
on 8th Street SW. The next meeting of the Public Works
Committee is scheduled for Tuesday, February 17, 2009 at 3:00
p.m.
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City of Auburn Council Meeting Minutes February 2, 2009
Finance
D.
Chair Backus reported that the Finance Committee met this
evening at 6:30. The Committee approved claims and payroll
vouchers, Ordinance No. 6223, and Resolution Nos. 4445 and
4447. The Committee also discussed Resolution No. 4446 and
received a report from Mayor Lewis regarding emergency
preparedness efforts related to the condition of Howard Hanson
Dam and upcoming public meetings. The next regular meeting of
the Finance Committee is scheduled for Tuesday, February 17,
2009 at 6:30 p.m.
Community Center
E.
Chair Wagner reported that the Community Center Committee met
on January 27, 2009 at 9:00 a.m. The Committee received a
design budget update from the architects who reported that the
project is still on budget and the design is staying reasonably
stable. The Committee discussed metal panels being used for
accent areas and color selection. A Boys and Girls Club
representative was in attendance and spoke regarding the
expansion of their elementary school based day care services in
Auburn in advance of their occupancy in the old Pratt building.
Chair Wagner also reported that the Committee decided on a bid
strategy wherein contractors will be required to submit separate
bids on the community center and the gym activity center and also
a joint bid for both components. The Committee also received a
report on the Leadership in Environmental and Energy Design
(LEED) progress. The project is almost certain to qualify for either
the Silver or Gold certification. The Committee also received a
presentation from the artist providing the two pieces of artwork for
the lobby and a report on the furniture and fixtures, which will be of
a better quality at lower costs than originally thought. The
Committee also received a report on commissioning, an
engineering oversight recommended for large projects to keep
them within budget. The next meeting of the Community Center
Committee is scheduled for March 25, 2009 at 9:00 a.m.
F. Downtown Redevelopment
Chair Norman reported that the Downtown Redevelopment
Committee met on January 22, 2009 at 9:00 a.m. to review design
concepts for the City Hall Plaza. The Committee focused on
details to provide a safe and welcoming gathering space for
community events in the downtown core. The Committee
discussed signage, lighting, green space, and accommodations for
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City of Auburn Council Meeting Minutes February 2, 2009
various uses. The Committee also discussed Downtown Urban
Center design guidelines and how they might apply to alterations
or additions to existing structures in the downtown core. The date
for the next Downtown Redevelopment Committee meeting has not
yet been set.
IV. REPORTS
At this time the Mayor and City Council may report on significant items
associated with their appointed positions on state, regional and local
organizations.
A. From the Council
Deputy Mayor Singer reported that she and other Councilmembers
attended the grand opening for the ACAP facility now located at
the White River Presbyterian Church. She also presided at the
Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) Executive Board meeting
where they received a report regarding the federal stimulus
package. At present, the four county region is slated to receive
approximately $60 million. Approximately $30 million of that will be
going to King County. She will be attending a meeting soon to
finalize the recommendations to the PRSC Executive Board
regarding criteria for final project selection.
Councilmember Wagner reported that he attended the Puyallup
River Watershed Council meeting at which they received a
presentation by the fishery biologists from the Muckleshoot Indian
Tribe and the Puyallup Tribe of Indians. The presentation was
regarding the dramatic improvement in the fish count for the White
River Chinook Salmon run due to the slow down of the hydro
project in Lake Tapps. Councilmember Wagner also reported on a
presentation from Puget Sound Partnership Regional Liaison John
Taylor.
Councilmember Peloza reported that he attended a King County
Water Pollution Abatement Advisory Committee meeting to discuss
the challenges faced by the King County Wastewater Treatment
Division (WTD) and their plans to ensure reliability and achievable
goals in improving energy efficiencies. WTD represents 55% of
King County’s total energy usage. The WTD goals are to reduce
that percentage by employing renewable fuel technologies, convert
100% of waste products and landfills and wastewater treatment
plants by year 2012, adopt mandatory energy efficiencies and
resource use guidelines for operation and maintenance at all
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City of Auburn Council Meeting Minutes February 2, 2009
facilities, develop energy management plans for the west and
south treatment plants, conduct energy audits of all King County
facilities by year 2010, pursue grant funding, and to generate 50%
of power in King County from renewable resources by 2010.
Councilmember Haugen reported that she attended the ACAP
ribbon cutting ceremony. She commended the participation and
support of the Auburn community.
B. From the Mayor
Mayor Lewis reported on the attendance at ACAP ribbon cutting
ceremony and thanked Councilmembers and staff for their efforts
related to the ACAP relocation.
Mayor Lewis noted the recent passing of Auburn residents Bill Kyle
and Don Hill. Mayor Lewis spoke regarding their active leadership
in the Auburn community and their efforts regarding Howard
Hanson and Mud Mountain Dams, the Auburn Performing Arts
Center, construction of State Route 167, and improvements to
State Route 18. Mayor Lewis encouraged citizens to follow their
fine example and become involved in the community.
Mayor Lewis stated that he emceed “Uniquely Auburn”, which is an
event operated solely by volunteers and stated it was an honor to
be a part of this wonderful event. He also attended the Miss
Auburn Pageant at the Auburn Performing Arts Center. Twenty-
one contestants participated in the largest local program of Miss
America Pageant in the United States. During the course of the
pageant, they collected over $4,000 in donations which will be
awarded to the Auburn Food Bank in addition to the food items
collected on their behalf.
Mayor Lewis reported on the condition of Howard Hanson Dam.
During the last storm event, the dam was raised to a level higher
than it has ever been and, once it was lowered, the Army Corp of
Engineers discovered that a sink hole had developed. Mayor
Lewis reviewed the problems related to the current amount of water
being released from the dam into the Green River. If another
significant storm event occurs, there is a probability that flooding
will occur in the northeastern and northwestern areas in Auburn
causing those areas to experience up to four feet of water. Areas
north of Auburn could experience from eight to ten feet of water.
City staff recently began a public notification process for those
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City of Auburn Council Meeting Minutes February 2, 2009
areas considered to be at highest risk of flooding. Two public
meetings are scheduled for Saturday, February 7 beginning at 9:30
a.m. and Tuesday, February 10 at 6:30 p.m. to provide information
to the public. With long range weather forecasting, the City could
have as much as five to eight days notice of a flood event. It takes
from four to seven hours for water released from the dam to reach
Auburn. Mayor Lewis stated that the City will be providing notice to
the best of its ability and encouraged citizens to attend the public
meetings for more information. Mayor Lewis also urged citizens to
contact the City if they have any questions.
Deputy Mayor Singer requested clarification regarding notification
to citizens via Auburn Alert.
Information Services Director Rempher stated that citizens having
an unlisted telephone number should register their number on the
City’s website or contact City Hall. New telephone numbers are
not added automatically and it is best to register with the City.
Mayor Lewis clarified that telephone numbers which are listed will
automatically be called via 911.
V.
CONSENT AGENDA
All matters listed on the Consent Agenda are considered by the City
Council to be routine and will be enacted by one motion in the form listed.
A. Minutes
1. Minutes of the January 20, 2009 regular City Council
meeting.
B. Vouchers
F4.9.2, F4.9.5
1. Claims
2008 claims check numbers 382183 through 382187,
382189, and 382189 through 382193 in the amount of
$998,227.58 and dated February 2, 2009.
2009 claims check numbers 382188, 382190 through
382192, and 382389 through 382658 in the amount of
$755,644.71 and one wire transfer in the amount of
$4,722.00 and dated February 2, 2009.
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City of Auburn Council Meeting Minutes February 2, 2009
2. Payroll
Payroll check numbers 525576 to 525678 in the amount of
$378,750.14 and electronic deposit transmissions in the
amount of $1,207,623.37 for a grand total of $1,586,373.51
for the pay period covering January 10, 2009 to January 28,
2009.
Deputy Mayor Singer moved and Councilmember Wagner
seconded to approve the Consent Agenda.
MOTION CARRIED. 6-1 Councilmember Haugen voted no.
VI. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
There was no unfinished business.
VII.
NEW BUSINESS
There was no new business.
VIII.
ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS
A. Ordinances
1. Ordinance No. 6223
F2.4.9 LID 350
An Ordinance of the City of Auburn, Washington, approving
and confirming the assessments and assessment roll of
Local Improvement District No. 350 for the improvement of
sidewalks, curb/gutters, driveways, wheelchair access
ramps, and landscape strips, as provided for Ordinance No.
6111, and levying and assessing a part of the cost and
expense thereof against the several lots, tracts, parcels of
land and other property as shown on the assessment roll
Mayor Lewis explained that Council agreed a number of
years ago to advance the cost of up to 50% for sidewalk,
curb and gutter improvements requiring the neighborhood to
provide matching funds, which can be paid up front or paid
over a number of years via a lien on the property.
Councilmember Backus moved and Councilmember Peloza
seconded to introduce and adopt Ordinance No. 6223.
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City of Auburn Council Meeting Minutes February 2, 2009
Councilmember Haugen inquired regarding the timeline for
noticing property owners and expressed concerns for
individuals who may not be able to pay their portions.
Director Coleman reviewed the Local Improvement District
(LID) 350 as follows:
Resolution No. 4278 declaring the intent to form LID
350 and setting the date for the first public hearing
was approved July 2, 2007
First notice published on July 11, 2007 fixing the
date of the public hearing
Second notice published on July 12, 2007,
consecutively as required by law, fixing the date of
the public hearing
Notices mailed to property owners, as shown on the
King County Assessors roll, via certified mail on July
13, 2007
Mayor Lewis reminded Councilmember Haugen that this
particular type of lien does not take property for failure to
pay and assistance has been offered to property owners
throughout the LID process. Council and Finance
Department staff have had many discussions with citizens
since July 2007. A number of public meetings and meetings
set up individually with various property owners at their
request have occurred.
Director Coleman reported that once the LID is finalized,
property owners have the option to pay the LID assessment
in full within 30 days or make 10 annual installments, without
accruing interest, beginning 12 months after the 30 day
period elapses. If the assessment becomes delinquent,
then late notices are sent to the property owners. Simple
interest is accrued at 5% per annum on the unpaid principal
balance and if payment is not made in first 30 days of the
year, then interest would be due for the whole year.
Councilmember Wagner pointed out that it has only been
the past seven or eight years since the City has required a
50% LID participation rate. Before that, property owners
were required to pay for all improvements. More recent
Councils have been much more willing to participate in the
LID costs.
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City of Auburn Council Meeting Minutes February 2, 2009
Councilmember Norman expressed her appreciation for the
opportunity to participate in an LID in her neighborhood.
Many property owners would not have been able to afford
the significant infrastructure improvements if the City had
not shared in the costs.
Mayor Lewis stressed that LID improvements are not forced
upon property owners. A majority of property owners in a
neighborhood have to agree in writing to the improvements
or the City does not implement an LID.
MOTION CARRIED. 6-1. Councilmember Haugen voted
no.
B. Resolutions
1. Resolution No. 4441
F5.3
A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Auburn,
Washington, authorizing acceptance of a King County 2008
Youth Sport Facility Grant (YSFG) to make surface
improvements to Field No. 4 at Brannan Park
Councilmember Norman moved and Councilmember Backus
seconded to adopt Resolution No. 4441.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. 7-0.
2. Resolution No. 4445
F4.6.1
A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Auburn,
Washington, approving the demolition of residence located
th
at 2033 4 Street Southeast, in Auburn, Washington
Councilmember Backus moved and Councilmember Peloza
seconded to adopt Resolution No. 4445.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. 7-0.
3. Resolution No. 4447
F5.4.2
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City of Auburn Council Meeting Minutes February 2, 2009
A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Auburn,
Washington, authorizing the Auburn City Council to accept
grant funds in the amount of Forty Eight Thousand Six
Hundred Ninety Three Dollars ($48,693), from the U.S.
Department of Transportation Federal Aviation
Administration, for rehabilitation of medium intensity runway
light (MIRL) runway 16/34 (PHASE 2) and authorizing the
execution of the grant agreement therefor
Councilmember Backus moved and Councilmember Peloza
seconded to adopt Resolution No. 4447
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. 7-0.
IX.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Council, the meeting
adjourned at 8:20 p.m.
APPROVED THE ______ DAY OF FEBRUARY 2009.
Peter B. Lewis, Mayor Cathy Richardson, Deputy City Clerk
City Council agendas and minutes are available to the public at the City Clerk’s
Office, on the City website, and via e-mail. Complete agenda packets are
available for review at the City Clerk’s Office and at the Library.
Internet: http://www.auburnwa.gov
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