HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-29-2001sp SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING
January 29, 2001 5:30 PM
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
PROPOSED COMMUNITY CENTER
MINUTES
I. Call to Order
The special meeting of the Auburn City Council to discuss the proposed
Community Center was called to order at 5:35 PM in the Council Chambers
located in Auburn City Hall. Mayor Charles A. Booth and the following
Councilmembers were present: Jeanne Barber, Trish Borden, Pete Lewis, Sue
Singer, Rich Wagner, Stacey Brothers, and Fred Poe. Staff members present
included: Fire Chief Bob Johnson, Parks and Recreation Director Dick Deal,
Personnel Director Brenda Heineman, Planning and Community Development
Director Paul Krauss, Finance Director Diane L. Supler, Police Chief Jim Kelly,
City Attorney Michael J. Reynolds, Assistant Fire Chief Russ Vandyer,
Recreational Manager Brian Petty, 'Recreational Coordinator Pam Gallion,
Recreational Coordinator Sharon LaVigne, Senior Center Supervisor Cheryl
Sallee, and Deputy City Clerk Cathy Richardson.
I1. Introduction
Mayor Booth explained that the purpose the Special City Council meeting was to
enable Councilmembers to discuss issues, propositions and proposals related to
a proposed community center. There will be no action by the Council.
III. Discussion of Proposed Partnership with YMCA for Community
Center
Mayor Booth stated that the City established a Committee of three
Councilmembers and staff to evaluate the proposed partnership for a Community
Center with the YMCA (Y). Mayor Booth invited YMCA of Greater Seattle
President Nell Nichol to summarize the proposal.
Special City Council Meeting Minutes- Proposed Community Center
January 29, 2001
Page 2
Mr. Nichol distributed handouts to Councilmembers. Mr. Nichol explained that
the YMCA of Greater Seattle is a 501 C3 non-profit corporation which is affiliated
with YMCA of the USA. The YMCA of Greater Seattle is an independent
organization controlled by a volunteer Board of Directors. Mr. Nichol read the
YMCA Mission Statement and reviewed the association's operating goals and
principals. Mr. Nichol stressed the importance of maintaining high quality
facilities and programs and providing the programs at affordable fees. Mr. Nichol
presented an overhead graph of the financial structure of the YMCA for the year
2000, which included contributions, United Way revenue, investment income,
program fees and membership dues, and government funding.
Mr. Nichol introduced YMCA Executive Director David Ports to review the history
of the proposed Community Center and partnership with the City of Auburn.
Mr. Ports stated that the process began in 1998 with informal discussion by
YMCA members, volunteers and staff with regard to the services and needs of
the community and the possibility of the YMCA providing those services. In May,
1999 the YMCA appointed a Future Development Study Committee. The
Committee's goal was to build a comprehensive program needs and priorities
study which included a demographic study of the area, community leader survey,
and current and future programs analysis. In November, 1999, the YMCA Board
of Managers approved the study which indicated that the Auburn valley had the
need and could support a larger YMCA facility. In May, 2000, the YMCA of
Greater Seattle met with the Capital Reserves Committee to review project
proposals submitted by various YMCA organizations. In October, 2000, the
Auburn YMCA was awarded $3 million for their proposed project. The award is
contingent upon a match of funds by the City of Auburn.
Mr. Ports explained that the original proposal was to partner with the City of
Auburn to build a Community Center/YMCA. The current YMCA proposal to
build the facility includes a commitment of $3 million each from the Y and the City
of Auburn with an additional $500,000 from the Y. This total includes the cost of
relocating the ACAP child-care facility currently leasing YMCA property.
Mr. Ports noted that the proposed facility includes the following elements:
· Family recreational, instructional and lap pool
· Youth and family program zone
· Teen center
· Childwatch area
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Janua~ 29,2001
Page 3
· Large gymnasium
· Large muilti-purpose room
· Large community meeting room
· Health and fitness area
· Expanded locker facilities
· Special needs locker facilities
· Small meeting and program room
· Expanded storage, office and parking
· Additional community room
Mr. Ports stated that a new and larger facility would provide an opportunity for
expanded participation and concurrent programming for youth and families. Mr.
Ports reviewed the programs that would be offered for volunteer, youth, family,
adult and senior activities and the current YMCA program participation.
In response to questions from Councilmember Brothers, Mr. Nichol stated that
the market survey was conducted within a three mile radius of the current YMCA.
In response to questions from Councilmember Wagner, Mr. Ports reported that
the projected participation is based on an expanded facility. A larger facility will
house additional programs and services which will increase membership.
Mr. Ports presented a list of estimated projected membership rates. Auburn
residents would receive discounted daily, monthly, and annual membership 'fees.
Mr, Nichol displayed an estimated valuation of the facilities that would be used by
the City of Auburn based on minimum usage. The YMCA is proposing that the
Auburn Parks and Recreation Department would have first priority in scheduling
the Community Room. The value is based on a fifty year agreement with the City
of Auburn.
Mr. Ports reported that some of the benefits of the proposed City of
Auburn/YMCA Community Center would provide are as follows:
· Provides Auburn residents with a modern recreational facility
· YMCA assumes all operating liability
· No tax burden on those who don't use the facility
· Enhancement of Les Gove Park
· Strengthens YMCA ability to continue to serve the Auburn community over
the next fifty years
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Janua~ 29,2001
Page 4
· Provides access to residents regardless of financial ability
· Provides a facility that provides a positive environment for all ages
In response to questions from Councilmember Poe, Mr. Nichol explained that
there are several options with regards to the relocation of ACAP, The ACAP
facility could remain at its present location or could be relocated elsewhere on
the property. The relocation could be processed in phases so as not to disrupt
services provided by ACAP.
Planning and Community Development Director Paul Krauss reported that he
was directed to work with the YMCA, together with Parks and Recreation Director
Dick Deal and Finance Director Diane Supler, to research the legalities involved
in a partnership with a community based organization. The results indicated a
partnership agreement would be allowed as long as the City receives fair value
for its investment.
Director Krauss stated that during the negotiating process with the YMCA, they
received suggestions and comments from Council and community members. In
addition to the YMCA proposal, staff developed three other options as follows:
1. Staff negotiate with the YMCA to include a greater percentage of time
allocation to the City Recreational Department use.
2. A facility proposed by Councilmember Singer predicated upon a building with
two fronts. The building would be connected internally with the City entrance
facing the park and the YMCA entrance facing the street.
3. Relocate Parks staff into the former Senior Center, use an equivalent amount
of money proposed for the partnership, and build a gym onto the existing
facility to be used as a community center. Additional cost to manage the
facility would be minimal with the presence of staff onsite.
Director Krauss discussed possible solutions that might be implemented with
regard to the relocation of the ACAP facility including the YMCA proposal or the
use of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. Although CDBG
funds cannot be used for new construction, they can be used to purchase
prefabricated buildings.
Parks and Recreation Director Dick Deal displayed an aerial photo of the Les
Gove Park area. Director Deal stated that the complexion of the park is changing
dramatically. Improvements in the park include the renovation of the former
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January 29, 2001
Page 5
library into a Senior Center. This move will increase the square footage from
7,000 to 12,600. Director Deal displayed the new facility floorplan and reported
that the Senior Center not only serves the senior population, but is used by other
community groups for private uses and by recreation staff for classes and
programs. The new facility will include a large meeting space which will
accommodate approximately 300 occupants. This space is capable of being
divided into three individual meeting rooms. The facility will contain a commercial
kitchen and two additional meeting rooms. It will provide an opportunity for major
community activities and events as well as the daily senior programs and
activities. Moving staff into this facility will provide a presence on the Auburn
Community Campus, much needed office and day-time program space, and will
free up office space at City Hall.
Director Deal explained that the Auburn Community Campus at Les Gore Park
includes the King County Library, the ACAP and YMCA facilities, the Museum,
Senior Center, and the Parks and Recreation facility. Director Deal noted the
second phase of expansion at the Museum will begin later this week and
includes the completion of an additional meeting room and storage space for
artifacts.
Director Deal commented that an excellent working relationship exists between
the YMCA and the City of Auburn. In order for a joint use operation with the
YMCA to succeed, it must be equitable for all parties. Director Deal suggested
the City of Auburn and an equitable constituent representation serve on the
YMCA Board of Directors.
Director Deal reviewed the proposed partnership agreement with the YMCA and
stressed the City's need for more gymnasium time than that presented in the
current proposal. The ten percent proposed by the Y is substandard to the City's
current needs. The YMCA has committed to the maintenance and operation of
the interior of the facility and the City would maintain the grounds, parking areas,
and associated utilities. A valuation needs to be determined for the maintenance
obligations.
Director Deal reported that the majority of the office space for the proposed
facility will house YMCA staff and recommended that a City staff member be on
site to answer questions regarding City programs and activities at the facility.
Director Deal recommended the City have control of thirty percent of the
gymnasium and meeting rooms schedules and five percent of the pool usage
Special City Council Meeting Minutes - Proposed Community Center
January 29, 2001
Page 6
schedule and that any sbrplus YMCA revenue should be used to enhance the
facility or be used within the community.
Director Deal stated that any surplus YMCA revenue should be used to enhance
the facility or within the community.
In response to questions from Councilmember Lewis, City Attorney Michael
Reynolds spoke regarding the "Test of Legal Sufficiency" or "Test of
Consideration" of the contract. Mr. Reynolds explained that the contract is
reviewed for the element of consideration or value received. The City must
review the contract as a gift of public funds as well as consideration received by
the City. Mr. Reynolds explained that in the Test of Consideration, the City must
recapture the $3 million and the rate of capitalization over the term of the fifty-
year contract. For example, using a five percent capitalization rate, the City must
recapture approximately $210,000 per year. Mr. Reynolds juxtaposed the
YMCA' estimate of value to be received by the City as $186,000. Mr. Reynolds
noted that $65,000 of the Y's value received by the City is in reduced
membership fees, which may not be considered part of the recapture for the City.
Mr. Reynolds reiterated that legal counsel must review a public contract under
the Test of Consideration and determine whether the City will receive $3 million
worth of value for the investment.
In response to questions from Councilmembers Brothers and Singer, Mr.
Reynolds responded that membership fees are difficult to forecast. There is
intrinsic value with the services provided by the Y. The Test of Consideration
only includes the value of the investment and the recapture figures. The ten
percent discount offered by the Y can be viewed as a discount for Auburn
residents or a surcharge for non-residents.
Councilmember Borden stressed the intrinsic value, such as greatly expanded
recreational services, that might be gained through a partnership with the Y.
These are services a city might feel responsible to provide to the community if
they weren't provided by a facility such as the Y. Councilmember Borden cited a
similar partnership with the Y in Sherwood, Oregon and also a partnership
between the City of Kirkland and another non-profit organization that operates
the Performing Arts Center built by the City.
Mr. Reynolds noted that the intrinsic value should be based on the value of the
consideration vis-~-vis the current financial environment of the municipality as a
whole and should be a decision of the Council. Mr. Reynolds pointed out that the
City of Auburn is presently engaged in two major highway projects and also
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January 29, 2001
Page 7
significant issues regarding the storm water and other systems, which have high
potential liabilities.
Councilmember Poe pointed out that the resolution passed by the Council was to
consider the joint venture with the Y. In response to questions from
Councilmember Poe, Mr. Nichol stated that the Y is proposing a fifty-year
agreement. The contract would contain a minimum level of service, but would be
re-negotiated on an annual basis with regard to schedules and agreements.
Director Krauss referred to the memorandum received from Councilmember
Singer regarding the proposal for a building with two entrances. The idea has
merit with regard to architectural design and bifurcated ownership. In review,
staff determined that the City has a greater need for gymnasium space or
recreation areas versus community center/conference rooms. The renovations in
connection with the old and new Senior Centers will provide a substantial amount
of meeting space for the community.
Director Deal referred to an overhead display of the old library and the
renovations taking place for the Senior Center. Director Deal spoke of the
benefits of the addition of the new King County Library and the possible option of
adding a gymnasium to the renovation of the old senior center.
In response to questions from Councilmember Borden, Director Deal
summarized the potential improvements and stated that, in the event the old
senior center renovation included a gymnasium, the ACAP facility would not
need to be relocated.
Mayor Booth opened the floor for public comment.
Mike Morrisette, 4720 Millpond Drive SE, Auburn
Mr. Morrisette represented the Auburn Area Chamber of Commerce. Mr.
Morrisette referred to correspondence from the Chamber distributed to the
Councilmembers speaking in favor of a partnership between the YMCA and the
City of Auburn. On behalf of the Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Morrisette
expressed concern with the capacity, availability and suitability for community
events of the proposed facility and suggested that the conference center portion
of the proposed facility should be designed, owned, and governed by the City
and should not be a gymnasium that requires conversion to serve as a
conference center.
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January 29, 2001
Page 8
Ellen Cropp, 17053 SE 312th Street, Auburn
Ms. Cropp stated that she was the first director for the ACAP child care facility.
Ms. Cropp expressed her concern for the future of ACAP. She urged Council to
find a definitive solution to the ACAP relocation that is acceptable to the ACAP
Board of Directors and management before a decision is made with regard to the
YMCA partnership.
George Osborn
Mr. Osborn has been a volunteer for ACAP for many years. Mr. Osborn spoke in
opposition of a new YMCA facility. Mr. Osborn urged the Council to consider the
human factors and not just financial interests and to keep ACAP at its current site
Deborah Sexton, 1900 Taylor Avenue N, Seattle
Ms. Sexton stated that she is President of the ACAP Board of Directors. Ms.
Sexton thanked the Mayor and the City Council for support given to ACAP over
the years. Ms. Sexton spoke in favor of partnership with the YMCA but urged the
Council and the YMCA to find a long-term, permanent solution for the ACAP
housing issue. Ms. Sexton expressed a desire for ACAP to remain at Les Gove
Park due to the services and amenities available there. Ms. Sexton urged a
collaboration between the YMCA, ACAP, and the City to find a solution without
interruption of ACAP services.
Linda DiRienzo, 1102 J Street SE, Auburn
Ms. DiRienzo stated that she is Executive Director for ACAP. In response to
questions from Councilmember Borden, Ms. DiRienzo stated that the ACAP
facility has approximately 5,000 square feet of class room space, which includes
six classrooms, and several office spaces and outdoor play areas. ACAP is
licensed for eighty children.
In response to questions from Councilmember Poe, Ms. Sexton stated that
ACAP is in favor of the partnership between the Y and the City of Auburn and
reiterated ACAP's desire to be a part of the decision making process with regard
to moving ACAP's facility and expressed concern regarding the connected costs.
Dan Shields, 2610 Forest Ridge Drive SE, Auburn
Mr. Shields spoke in opposition to a partnership between the YMCA and the City
of Auburn. Mr. Shields stated that the City should own the community center and
use City staff to operate the facility.
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January 29, 2001
Page 9
Bill Kyle, 2001 19th Drive NE, Auburn
Mr. Kyle stated that he is on the Board of Directors for ACAP. Mr. Kyle spoke in
opposition to a partnership between the YMCA and the City of Auburn. Mr. Kyle
urged Council to take more time and to consider long range plans for the Les
Gove Park area.
Mayor Booth recessed the meeting at 8:15 PM for a short break and reconvened
at 8:25 PM.
Christy Burke, 30440 104th Avenue SE, Auburn
Ms. Burke spoke in favor of the proposed partnership with the YMCA. Ms. Burke
encouraged the Council to take advantage of the contribution of funds from the
YMCA for the benefit of the community.
Elaine Prenovost, 304 I Street SE, Auburn
Ms. Prenovost suggested Council make use of the old Senior Center for a
Community Center. Ms. Prenovost stressed the need for a facility for evening
use by the youth in the Auburn community.
Dave Williamson, 4248 A Street SE #113, Auburn
Mr. Williamson and his daughter spoke in favor of the proposed partnership with
the YMCA. Mr. Williamson praised the current YMCA facility and pointed out that
it is a facility that is used by youth and seniors. A new facility would benefit all
members of the community as well as future generations.
Mike Dalfit, 1235 25th Street SE, Auburn
Mr. Dalfit stated that he is a Board Member of the YMCA. Mr. Dalfit spoke in
favor of the proposed partnership with the Y. Mr. Dalfit stated that it presents an
opportunity for the City to provide an expanded facility for all members of the
community.
Mr. Ports reported that last year the YMCA served 1,600 children in summer day-
camp, 37% of which were subsidized. The child-care programs served 175
children per week and approximately 40% of them were subsidized. The Y also
served 70 children in the drop-in programs and over 3,000 children participate in
the youth sports programs.
Nancy Colson, 1214 O Street NE, Auburn
Ms. Colson spoke in favor of the proposed partnerships and of public/private
partnerships in general. Ms. Colson expressed the need for additional meeting
Special Ci~ Council Meeting Minutes - Proposed Community Center
Janua~ 29,2001
Page 10
space in the community and the benefits of using the YMCA's programming
expertise.
Mike Bocatch, 111 H Street SE, Auburn
Mr. Bocatch spoke in opposition of a partnership with the Y and of moving the
ACAP facility. Mr. Bocatch questioned the impact a partnership might have on
other businesses with City relationships and expressed displeasure at the fee
structure and the lack of privileges accorded at other YMCA facilities without
additional fees.
Kip Herren, 212 Riverview Drive NE, Auburn
Mr. Herren spoke in favor of the proposed partnership with the Y. Mr. Herren
stated that he was a participant in the Developmental Committee for the Greater
YMCA of Seattle. A total of nineteen Y's competed for the available funds. Due
to the leadership qualities and the high regard towards children and families
found in Auburn, 60% of those funds were directed to the Auburn community.
Rodger Scott, 20405 SE 344th, Auburn
Mr. Scott spoke in favor of the proposed Y partnership and stated that the Y
provides services and programs that other health clubs do not offer. The Y
provides leadership for the youth of the community. Mr. Scott encouraged the
City to join in the partnership and to take advantage of the funds being offered.
Councilmember Wagner stated that more time is needed to discuss the proposed
partnership and negotiations. Councilmember Wagner expressed concern with
the deadline of March 1, 2001.
Councilmember Barber concurred with Councilmember Wagner and expressed a
desire to study the other options presented this evening. Councilmember Barber
also has concerns with regard to ACAP.
Councilmember Singer stated that more discussion and more public input are
needed prior to a final decision. Councilmember Singer expressed concerns
regarding a public/private partnership, potential complications and legal
ramifications, and with meeting the March deadline.
Councilmember Poe concurred with Councilmembers Wagner, Barber, and
Singer and spoke of the need to analyze a final agreement before a decision
could be made. The Y partnership would be a benefit to the community and
would offer expanded opportunities for the Parks Department. Councilmember
Special City Council Meeting Minutes- Proposed Community Center
January 29, 2001
Page 11
Poe stressed the needs of the community for the services of both the Y and the
Parks Department and urged to Council to consider the potential loss of value.
Councilmember Lewis concurred that more discussion is needed with regards to
the unique opportunity presented by the Y. Councilmember Lewis stressed the
need for additional community input and opinions, establishment of the legalities
connected with the use of public funds, and the determination of a value.
Councilmember Singer stressed the need to ascertain public support for this and
future community projects such as the Public Safety Building.
Councilmember Borden expressed concern regarding the impact a delay might
have with regard to the funding for the Community Center partnership from both
the City and the Y and suggested that the City's portion be placed in reserve in
the event Council decides to go forward. Councilmember Borden suggested that
Council design a process to be used to make that determination.
Councilmember Wagner concurred with Councilmember Borden and suggested
that the YMCA extend their deadline of March 1,2001.
Councilmember Brothers spoke in opposition of the proposed Y partnership and
spoke in favor of using the old Senior Center in conjunction with new
construction. Councilmember Brothers concurred with the need for additional
community and Council participation with regard to a Community Center.
Discussion followed regarding operating costs and fees, expansion of services
provided to the community, Council priorities, and Parks Department needs.
Councilmember Borden urged the Council to establish a process to be used to
make a final determination with regard to a partnership with the Y.
Councilmember Singer suggested hiring an independent consultant or facilitator
to study the need and gather more public input with regard to a Community
Center.
Councilmember Wagner suggested Council schedule a work session to discuss
Council priorities including all transportation and capital projects prior to March 1,
2001.
SpecialCi~ Council Meeting Minutes- Proposed Communi~ Center
Janua~ 29,2001
Page12
IV. Executive Session
Mayor Booth recessed the meeting to executive session at 8:25 PM for
approximately twenty minutes in order to discuss personnel and legal issues.
Mayor Booth reconvened the meeting at 9:15 PM.
V. Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Council, the meeting
adjourned at 9:15 PM.
Approved this c2~/--~ day of February, 2001.
2001 m01-29 special.doc