HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-25-2007]K
CITY OF
~~~~~^~~ PLANNING & COMMUNITY
~i DEVELOPMENT
WAS H LNGTON COMMITTEE
June 25, 2007
MINUTES
I. CALL TO ORDER - 5:00 PM, COUNCIL CHAMBERS
Councilmember Nancy Backus called the meeting to order at 5:03 p.m. in the Council
Chambers located on the first floor of Auburn City Hall, 25 West Main Street, Auburn, WA.
Committee members present were: Chair Lynn Norman (arrived at 5:06 p.m.), Member Backus
and Member Wagner. Also present were Interim Planning, Building and Community
Department Director David Osaki; Development Services Coordinator Steve Pitcher; Senior
Planner Chris Hankins; Senior Planner Jeff Dixon; Senior Planner Andy Sheridan; Building
Division Manager Jim Tinner; Parks, Arts and Recreation Director Daryl Faber; Cultural Arts
Manager Laurie Rose; Museum Director Patricia Cosgrove; Economic Development Manager
Dave Baron and Fire Marshal Jeff Stottlemyre (VRFA).
Audience Members included: Steve Wright Theater Consultant,. Keith James, Daniel Stoner
and John Drollinger.
II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
June 11, 2007
Member Wagner moved to approve the minutes from the June 11, 2007 meeting as
submitted, seconded by Member Backus.
Minutes approved 2-0.
Chair Norman arrived at this time.
III. ACTION
A. Ordinance No. 6104 - 2006 "I" Codes -Building Division Manager Jim Tinner
handed out a revised copy of Ordinance No. 6104 from what was provided originally in
the packet. Adoption of new International Building Codes occurs approximately every 3-
5years. Significant revisions included definitions of the Fire Code Official to be refer to
as VRFA; elimination of UHC and Uniform Code for the Abatement of Dangerous
Buildings in favor of the new International Code for Property Maintenance (ICPM).
Committee members inquired as to some of the requirements of the ICPM, particularly
as it relates to the need for electricity in homes, use of appliances, need to heat within a
home, etc. Chair Norman inquired as to the meaning of "obscured windows." Mr. Tinner
clarified that it relates to boarded up windows, not windows with reflective film.
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Planning and Community Development Committee Minutes
June 25, 2007
The code will also include a definition of what constitutes a complete building permit
application. There is also greater clarity of when and under what conditions a permit
extension may be granted. Under the proposal, an application will now remain valid for
a period of two years. For larger projects, staff would request an applicant to construct
in phases.
Fire Marshal Jeff Stottlemyre reviewed the highlights of the changes to those codes that
relate to fire protection. One change relates to fire sprinkler riser rooms, which will allow
for exterior access to these rooms, rather than requiring a firefighter to enter a building
during a fire. Four definitions have also been added to the International Fire Code
(IFC). Concerning fire alarm protection systems, the changes will require the systems to
be addressable so that the location of an activated device can be determined within a
building. Mr. Stottlemyre also pointed out some instances in which smoke and heat
detectors can be used in lieu of a sprinkler system.
Staff recommended adopting the 2006 State Building Code with local amendments.
Mr. Tinner clarified that these changes will not impose a significant impact on building
costs while still providing for public safety.
Member Backus moved to pass Ordinance No. 6104 on to full Council for approval;
seconded by Member Wagner
Motion was approved unanimously 3-0.
B. Resolution No. 4204 -Renaissance Senior Apts. Development Agreement
Development Services Coordinator Steve Pitcher noted the Committee had seen this
proposal at prior meetings. At its last meeting, the Committee had voted to have a
Council public hearing on this at the July 2 meeting. However, after the public hearing
on the Sunndalen project last Monday, the direction has been to seek an alternative
date for the hearing. This date has yet to be established.
Mr. Pilcher indicated that since the last meeting, the SEPA appeal period has expired.
The agenda bill includes the key points, including benefits to city and applicant.
Chair Norman expressed concern of how motorists coming from the south will access
the site. Keith James, consultant to the developer, indicated that northbound drivers will
have to turn onto 49t", head west to B St. NW, then turn east onto S 277t" Street, and
then south onto Auburn Way North.
Chair Norman felt the right-turn-in/right-out presents some problems and that left turns
into the site would be preferable. Mr. Pilcher noted the site is within the restricted area
of the S. 277th St. intersection, which results in the need for the turning movement
restrictions.
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Planning and Community Development Committee Minutes
June 25, 2007
The Committee asked what other access options are available, as they are not
comfortable with right-turn-in/right-turn-out only. The Committee is tasked with
ensuring it is a safely accessed site, but at this point, they are not convinced this
is true.
Daniel Stoner, developer, stated that the past history of accidents was before
improvements were done to S. 277t" Street. They had approached staff and asked
for consideration of these traffic improvements being in place, staff did not agree and
disallowed left turns into site. The applicant indicated they do not consider access
restrictions to be a major hindrance to their future residents, but it is more of a
concern to the retail uses on-site.
Member Wagner indicated the access issue will be discussed further at Public Works
Committee this Wednesday. He indicated he would like to know how many senior
housing dwelling units there are in the city and how this project helps meet demands.
Staff was asked to research the amount of market rate senior housing.
Keith James indicated they have information on the absorption rate of senior housing.
Member Wagner expressed his appreciation of the provision of increased on-site
parking on-site, but reiterated his concern that staff revisit the parking requirements
of the Zoning Code. He then asked for clarification on aspects of the Development
Agreement, including that on page 3, that 2-year limitation on building permits is
acceptable. Director Osaki answered in the affirmative.
Mr. Wagner suggested language be added to recognize the City can recoup costs
for any staff support of this project pursuing other agency approvals on behalf of the
developer.
Upon questioning, Mr. James indicated that the site plan has been revised to provide
approx. 106 parking stalls, more than shown on the exhibit presented to the Committee.
He also indicated that the Fire Authority is satisfied with the access being provided
around the building.
City Attorney Heid proposed language to address the potential of the City recouping any
costs that may be needed. He clarified other questions raised about the language within
the agreement and indicated some changes will be made to address the concerns of
the Committee.
The Committee asked that the project be brought back at its next meeting; the public
hearing for full Council can occur shortly thereafter.
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IV. DISCUSSION
A. Temporary Use Permit Fees -Senior Planner Chris Hankins informed the Committee
of a recent request received from a local church to wave the temporary use permits fees
for non-profit organizations. The issue arose from a specific request from a church
seeking approval to operate a carnival. The City recently updated fees, including
temporary uses; until last year, the fee was $50, but it now is $100. Staff examined
neighboring jurisdictions and prepared a table comparing different approaches to fees.
Auburn is comparable with nearly all; Burien charges higher fees, while Federal Way
does not have a charge.
Member Backus asked if the temporary use permit fee also applies to school properties,
Senior Planner Hankins confirmed that it does. Hankins indicated there have been 4-6
applications from non-profits per year.
The Committee agreed to exempt local non-profits but staff will need to define what is
exempt. Staff was asked for some language to be brought back for committee for
review.
B. Code Enforcement Visual Issues -Development Services Coordinator Steve Pilcher
presented the year-to-date code violation cases. Mr. Pilcher indicated staff is looking
for direction from the Committee on code enforcement priorities and issues.
Committee Member Wagner indicated his vision was the code should be able to
address issues such as house paint peeling if it happens over afive-year period.
Member Wagner wants the City to have more ability to address visual issues.
Chair Norman reiterated the committee seeks to address properties that continue
to deteriorate.
The Committee indicated it would like to have clarification of what codes exist to
enforce some of the visual problem circumstances and whether they are currently
adequate. Mr. Pilcher noted the International Property Management Code will help
with enforcement.
Chair Norman also expressed concern with graffiti problems and penalizing victims
twice by asking them to also remove the graffiti.
The committee asked for information on how the IPMC will help code enforcement.
Staff will return with more information at a future meeting.
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C. Olson Creek Restoration Efforts -Museum Director Patricia Cosgrove noted a recent
article in the Seattle Times regarding the farm. She then provided an overview of the
farm and efforts to make improvements.
Ms. Cosgrove described the restoration of individual buildings and reconstruction status.
Restoration of the house has been determined from old photographs. The weaving
house is nearly done on the outside. The chicken coop restoration is underway; the
inside is yet to be done. Landscaping restoration is yet to be done; it will cost $185,000
and is complicated because of the creek, which contains salmon. Orchard restoration
is underway. The south meadow has drainage problems and was previously cleared
by goats. Stream restoration is matter of balancing historic accuracy and the need to
protect salmon. There is a developer upstream who has mitigation obligations that may
cover costs for work at mouth of the creek.
Efforts this year will be on developing curriculum for 1St and 2"d grade and 6t" and 7t"
grade students. Farm programs planned for the year 2010, when the farm is fully
developed and open, were explained. She related this to programs and staffing of
the museum and the farm for 2006 through 2008.
Ms. Cosgrove showed a slide of the proposed operating budget through 2010:
approximately $18,000 in 2007 and $78,000 in 2010. Mr. Faber explained the
approach to funding. Ms. Cosgrove said that for museum, the City's money has
resulted in $1.38 raised for every dollar of city investment. PCD decided to support
growing the farm operating budget in line with the City's Farm Operating Plan.
Member Wagner asked about long-term plans for the site caretaker. Ms. Cosgrove
replied the current arrangement is a trade for services in exchange for living quarters.
The caretaker's trailer is planned to stay, but to be disguised because funds cannot
generally be used for upgrading this type of structure.
Director Faber explained the proposal for a land swap with King County for a future
bus parking area north of the farm. The swap is being relied upon for a match on a
state grant.
Chair Norman expressed her appreciation for what has been accomplished and the
rate at which that has occurred. Chair Norman suggested that coordination with the
Pea Patch programs could be possibility for farming on the Olson Farm Site.
Member Wagner asked about the livestock plan. Ms. Cosgrove indicated a plan has
not been developed due to limited staffing, but would like to see livestock potential in
the future.
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D. Theater Plan -Parks, Arts and Recreation Director Daryl Faber and Consultant Steve
Wright presented a more refined business plan than previous. Two primary factors
were: 1) expanding the arts and 2) creating some energy downtown. One concept is
to allow for flexible seating and use of the facility. There is also a need to add a box
office capacity at the theater.
Steve Wright noted the report is reflective of what has been previously been presented.
Member Wagner had questions regarding the ticket selling ability of the proposal. Mr.
Wright explained the kiosk aspect will provide a visible location to allow for ticket sales.
However, on-line and/or telephone purchases could also be available. Mr. Faber
discussed the revenue stream that will be generated by ticket sales.
Mr. Wright indicated the box office aspect could grow over time with effective marketing.
Mr. Faber also indicated the theater could provide a downtown venue for activities
currently occurring at school district sites such as Auburn Riverside High School. He
indicated that Plan 3 was the best option. This requires a $219,000 annual subsidy from
the City. Committee member Wagner indicated he would like to see this figure reduced
to under $150,000.
Member Backus stated she understood that the first two years will be difficult in terms
of making money.
The Committee discussed the project revenues and costs for the project as included in
the pro forma. Committee member Wagner expressed the need to fine tune the figures
and determine what the true costs will be to the City.
Director Faber asked for direction for when staff sits down with the preferred architect
for the project. There is also a concern about how to keep the theater open for a while,
but potentially later close it down for additional work. The Committee expressed
concern with opening the theater just for the sake of opening it, particularly if it won't
be a quality facility.
Chair Norman stated the objective is to economically transform it into a quality space
where activities will occur that will attract individuals to come downtown. If this requires
foregoing opening the theater on an interim basis, then that is preferable to spending
money on patching it up. She stated that the box office is a needed addition.
The Committee expressed concern over the terms of the lease and the amount of
money that may be needed to improve the building.
Director Faber discussed options for how staff could negotiate with the selected
architectural firm. Mr. Faber indicated he could set up a meeting with the Committee
and the lead firm to discuss specifics and answer questions. Chair Norman indicated
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June 25, 2007
she is leaving on vacation, but stated the rest of the committee should participate
without her.
Member Wagner expressed interest in tying in future work on the old post office building
with whatever efforts occur at the theater. There are opportunities for synergy between
the two sites.
E. Electronic Message Boards -Interim Planning, Building and Community Department
Director David Osaki recapped the results of his and Committee member Wagner's sign
tour of the City and showed a short video of various electronic signs from around the
city. Staff is seeking direction as to what is/is not acceptable.
Mr. Osaki pointed out there are instances of "signs within a sign," where the text copy
may be visually acceptable, but there are activities displayed within the background that
may not be desirable. The cycle length of these patterns/images may be of concern to
some individuals.
Member Wagner expressed concerns with flashing and "chasing" lights, from both
a traffic safety and visual appearance standpoint. Chair Norman stated she had no
objection to most of what was shown on the video, but there is a few which might
cause individuals to pause to read a sign. A driver ought to be able to easily read
a sign without needing to slow down or stop. Council member Wagner asked if it
was possible to flag the portions of the video when undesired displays are shown.
Mr. Osaki indicated he will work on the draft ordinance based upon the comments
from the committee and may reconvene the sign company representatives committee
to discuss this issue in greater detail.
F. I Street NE City of Auburn/Port of Seattle Real Estate Agreement -Senior Planner
Jeff Dixon noted this was last presented on May 29t" to the PCD and PW committees.
It relates to a proposed ordinance to vacate a portion of I St. NE and also swap rights-
of-way with the Port of Seattle related to their property in NE Auburn. Both items are
scheduled to be accomplished by the same ordinance scheduled for the July 2 City
Council meeting.
A recent development has been concerns raised by an adjacent property owner
(between RPG and the Port property). While the current proposed actions do not
directly affect this neighboring property, the actions will "set the stage" for the need
to eventually acquire some of the SE corner of his property to allow for future road
extension. His property is already somewhat encumbered by wetlands, and areas
for a future roadway may further reduce the amount of upland area available for
development. This individual also has concerns regarding future access to his
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June 25, 2007
property; his perceptions may be due to his viewing of some older conceptual maps.
He will probably be in attendance at the July 2"d hearing.
Mr. Dixon noted this matter will also be presented to the Public Works Committee this
Wednesday.
Member Wagner inquired whether negotiations with Robertson Properties Group (RPG)
will be impacted by this issue. Mr. Dixon indicated that the actions implement the street
network resulting from the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) which is based on
RPG's proposal and inconsistency is not likely.
G. Neighborhood Grant Program -Senior Planner Andy Sheridan discussed revising
the on-line application form to make it easier for people to access and fill out. He had
provided examples from other communities as part of the packet. Many of them provide
greater amounts of space to allow for more complete description of their proposals.
A concept staff is considering is whether to provide atwo-step form and to not require
as much initial information. A short pre-application meeting is desirable. Viable
applicants could then provide additional information, but in a more streamlined second
form than currently required. Providing a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) sheet
would be helpful.
The Committee felt there should be no requirement to provide any information regarding
IRS tax status and avoid the use of acronyms. The committee expressed a desire to
have the same staff work with applicants throughout the process.
Andy Sheridan also discussed an application received from the Wayland Arms
Community Garden Club. This project is for enhancements such as fencing and path
construction for an existing community garden at an apartment complex located at 307
South Division Street. The garden is currently well-utilized by the residents. The grant
request is for $5000. If awarded, it will also help clean up the area and also address
some vector control issues.
The Committee expressed support for the project.
H. Economic Development Updates -Economic Development Manager Dave Baron
discussed some recent activities in the economic development arena:
• Mithun/AEP design concepts: meeting this week with staff
• Urban Partners
• Tarragon possibilities in downtown
• ICSC/Enterprise Seattle meeting
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June 25, 2007
• George Sharp (CTED) meeting: can provide specialists to help City to
secure other grants, resources, etc.
• Strachan update (part owner of Gambini block): SHAG is no longer
pursuing this site
• TOD update
• C St. Group (south of AgriShop): owners have expressed interest in city
assistance in developing this block; staff has advertised a RFP in the
Journal of Business for this potential project
• Heartland/TSC term sheet: getting close to an agreement
• RPG re-cap: positive meeting held on June 18tH
• Buxton report
V. INFORMATION
A. PCDC Status Matrix
Related to the West Main Street improvement project, the Committee noted that the
project is significantly different than first presented and bids are proposed to be
awarded at the next PW committee meeting. The committee requested an explanation
of how the final design was approved without further PCDC review and what occurred
with costs.
It was agreed that the bike lanes/"complete streets" issue (matrix No. 21) can be
moved up to July 23 since the PW committee is addressing at their next meeting.
VI. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Planning and Community Development
Committee, Chair Norman adjourned the meeting at 8:56 p.m.
APPROVED THE DAY OF
Lynn Norman, Chair Kirsten Reynolds, Secretary
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