HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-28-2008 and 02-29-2008 *
CITY OF * * CITY COUNCIL
__ _
SUMMARY OF RETREAT
� WAS H I NG1'ON February 28 and 29, 2008
Port Ludlow
The Aubum City Council met in a special session on February 28 and 29,
2008 in orderfo conduct its annuaf retreat to discuss Council Vision and goals.
The session was conducted at. the Harbormaster Restaurant conference room
located in Port Ludlow, Wastiington.
Mayor Lewis called the meeting to order on Thursday, February 28, 2008
at 9:00 a.m. The following Councilmembers were present: Rich Wagner, Sue
Singer, Gene Cerino, Nancy BacKus, Bill Peloza and Lynn Norman.
Councilmember Virginia Haugen did not attend.
Staff members present included: Planning, Building and Community
Director Cindy Baker, Public Works Di�ector Dennis Dowdy; City Attomey Daniel
B. Heid; Finance Director Shelley Coleman; Information SerVices Director Lome
Rempher, Parks, Arts and Recreation Manager Daryl Faber; Human
Resources/Risk Manage� Brenda Heineman; Chief of Police Jim Kelly; Economic
Development Manager Dave Ba[on; Communications Manager Dana Hinman;
Execu4ive Assistant Tamie Bothell; and Gity Clerk Danielle Daskam..
Mayor Lewis provided an i�froduc4ion and explained the pro.cess and
expectations for the two-day retreat. Each of the projects submitted by
Councilmembers for discussion will be presented by a lead department director,
followed by Council discussion of#he viability of the project and poss'ible funding
mechanisms.
Mayor Pro Tem Singer re:quested the ability to add items/projects for
discussion, if Hme pertnits.
ITEM 7 Downtown Redevelopment, including B Street Plaza, Sky Bridge
r on C Street SW, RevitalizelRedevel.op Urban Genter with F�ctend
Area; Complete City Hall Plaza; Pursue Opportunities for
Indoor/Outdoor Soccer; Parking; PublicRestrooms
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Cltv of Aubum Council Retreat Summar4 _ Februarv 28 and 29.2008
Director B.aker and Director powdy presented the Council w'tth additional
handouts relating to costs associated with downtown redevelopment projects
and urban center residential and employment demographics,
B Stireet Plaza
Director Faber stated that some improvements to the B Street Plaza were
approved and accomplished last year under Op4ion 1, Phase 1, including
changes to the bollards, replacemenUaddition of picnic tables, Changes
to the existing artwork were not funded. In order to co.mplete Phase 1
(Option 2); including powder coafing the artwork in black and rimaking
aesthetic improvements, will costapprozimately $10,000.
Option 3 provides for the completion of Option 1 and enclosing the plaza
with a glass roof for an atrium setting.
Option 4 incluiies vacating the right-o.f-way and,dedicating tHe space as a
park.
Councilmembers Wagner and Singer spoke in favor of creating the plaza
as a park and in instituting a ban on smoking in City parks.
Counc'ilmember Norman s4ated that she is not in favot of investing City
funds in an atrium enclqsure until new development occurs in the
dowrrtown.
Councilmem6ers discussed options for creating an area that is less
friendly for loiterers and smokers.
Councilmembers Norman and Singer expressed opposition to changing
the colorof the artwork..
Councilmember Norman agreed with establishing the plaza as a p.aric and
instituting a smoking ban in City parks. Councifinembers discussed the
enforcement of a smoking ban.
City Attorney Heid stated that under existing law the City can enforce the
25 foot rule.
, «� �
Councilmembers spoke in favor of completing projects under��Phase 2,
Option 1, without changing the color of the ariwork, and dedicating the
plaza as a park.
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Cit4 of Aubum Council Retreat Summarv __Februarv 28 and 29.20U8 I
G Street SW Skybridge
Mayor Lewis stated that the skybridge was a discussion item at an earlier
Council retreat and is considered a method for encouraging
reinVestmenUredevelopment in the neighborhood west of C Street: The
City advertised a re.quest for proposals fo developers for redevelopment,
but 4he City received no response.
Counciimember Wagner spoke in favor of polling neighbors in fhe
neighborhood and expanding the redevelopment area all the way to G
Street.
Mayor Pro Tem Singer stated that she envisioned the skybridge as part of
the second Sound Transit garage.
� Di�ector powdy stated thaYthe biggest physical impediment to a skybridge
is the 3nd Street ramp. Director powcly �eferred to the handout for details
on fhe cost of the skybridge built either before or in conjunction with a
parking structure.
Mayor Lewis stated that he understood that Council at one time
expressed interest in funding tFie cost of the skybridge as part of the
neighborhood redevelopment. Councilmembec Wagner proposed that the
City pay for the cost of the skybridge and proyide latecomer agreements
for all development in 4he next twenty years.
Councilmember Wagne[ questioned whether the skybridge project would
qualify for transit oriented development funding.
Gouncilmembers spoke in favor of keeping the skybridge project as an
option on the vision map with the City contributing to the cost of the
skybridge.
Counciimembers spoke in favor of creating the neighborhood west of C
Street as a special planning area. Mayor Pro Tem Singer questioned
whether there are any houses in the neighborhood that need to be
protected for historical purposes.
. .a:. .
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Citv of Aubum Council Retreat Summaro Februarv-28.and:29.2008
Revitalize/Redevelop Urban Center
MayorPro Tem Singer spoke regarding extending the urban center line to
include areas west of C and D Streets.
Director Baker referred to her handout and several boards containing
photos of ofher urban centers. Director Baker also referred to her
handout on d.e.mographics and density targets for the urban center: The
GRy currently has approximately 3,071 employees in fhe urban center; the
target for 2020 is 15,000 re5idents and employees.
Director Baker displayed a map of single family and multi`family and
business locations (actual use) in the downtown urban center for visual
purposes.
Councilmember Wagner stated that he is less in favor of preserving a
neighborhood fhat is primarily re.ntaJ property. He suggested converting
the single family area to multi-family to facilitate attaining the downtown
densities. Mayor Pro Tem Singer suggested preserving the area and
using CDBG funds to assist conversion from rerrter to owne.r occupied
housing,
Mayor Lewis recommended that the Council revise the R1 and R2
standards and develop design standards for multi-fam'ily developm.ent.
Mayor Pro Tem Singer proposed designating the area north of West
Autium High as multi-family use, Councilmembers spoke 'in favor of
expanding the urban center area north of VVest Aubum High School from
C Street to H Street. Mayor Lewis suggested adding the businesses
along the C Street comdor to the urban center area.
Councilmember Norman encouraged retaining some of old, unique
Aubum and spoke in favor of retaining the cha[acter of the neighborhood
where possible. Mayor Rro Tem Singer stated that by taking a single
farriily neighborhood out of the urban center could p�otect the area from
high density mufti-family development.
Mayor Lewis requested that tfie Planning and Communify Development
' "'` Committee and Public Works Committee review 2vning and
Comprehensive Plan policies relating to single fami.ly and multi-family
zones, add protections against commercial creep, and provide incentives
and design standards for multi-family deyelopment.
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Citv of Au6um Council Retreat Summarv Februarv 28 and29.2008
Councilmember Wagner stated that if the single fam'ily standards are
strengthened there would be no reason to take out the Main Street
neighborhood from the urban center area.
At 10:13 a:m., Mayor Lewis recessed the meeting for approximately five minutes.
The mee4ing reconvened at 10:19 a.m.
Gity Hall Plaza/Promenade
Staff displayed the most recent artist concept of the City Hall plaza. The
proposal would serve as a centerpiece forthe Downtown Promenade and
incorporates 4he future Ciry Hall Annex building. The plaza would feature
a water feature, textured and patterned concrete, decora4ive trees,
removal of existing trees and retaining walls, and reconfiguration of the
intersection.
The promenade would consist of full reconstruction of Division Street from
18t S4reeY NW/NE to 3`� $treet SW/SE complete with expanded decorative
sidewalks and crosswalks, textured intersection circles, stre.et lighting,
street trees, decorative potted plants and new utilities.
Mayor Pro Tem Singer expressed concern that the plan needs to
coordinate with downtown developer's plans.
Mayor Lewis presented 4he Council with information on two downtowh
deVelopment project proposals by two separate developers. One of fhe
developers is ready to start their project this fall. Mayor Lewis displayed a
concept drawing of the proposed deVelopment which consists of first floor
retail and three floors of residential development. A s.econd developer
proposes a flagship urban project involving four blocks in the downtown
area. 'fhe project consists of retail spa.ce, art theater, office space and
residential housing. i
The second developer has requested that the City pay for the cost of �
parking associated with the development.. The first development would
require the City to sell portions of City parking lots and a commitment by
the City to complete the plaza and promenade.
Councilmembers expressed support for the second proposal.
Councilmembers stated that the''�econd proposal provides more of a long-
term commitment and gives the City an identity. Councilmembers also
spoke regarding the sustaina6ility of either project.
City Attomey Heid stafed 4hat fhe second developer has yet to respond to
the City's request for proposals.
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Citv of Aubum Councll Refreat Summarv -- -Februarv-28 and 29..2008
Director Coleman noted that#he fir&t project is lower density and requires
about $8 million investment by the City for improvements to the
promenade. Director Coleman stated that the return on investment is not
as strong. Mayor Lewis requested investigation in to a possible
development corporation for the inf�astrucfu�e improvements.
Mayor Lewis requested informa4ion on the legal methods in which the City
could enter into an agreement with the second deyeloper with the intent of
coming to a contractual agreement within 90 days. The Downtown
Redevelopment. Committee will be discu§sing this issue at fheir next
meeting.
Mayor Pro Tem Singer suggested that the City Hall plaza area should be
more open to ensure a large gathering space: She recommended
omitting the water/river feature o� possibly creating a walkway over the . -
riverfeature.
Councilmember Norman expressed support for taking out some of the
treescape and the water fea4ure from tlie plaza design, 6ut is not in favor
of more grassy areas in the plaza due to upkeep and functional'ity of the
space.
Downtown ComdorlCirculation
Director Baker spoke briefly regarding circulation in the urban center area.
She proposed Aubum Avenue/A Street SE as one-way southbound to 3nd
StreeY SE. According to the City's new fraffic model, Direotor powdy
reported that the tra�c bottleneck is south of Main Street on A Street SE..
Director powdy said fhat once #he A/B corridor is comptete, some of the
easfbound movement on 3`� Street will be relieved. He will conduct
further modeling to determine options to relieve fhe b:ottleneck on Aubum
Avenue%A Street SE:
Councilmember Wagner expressed opposition to Aulium Avenue as one-
way. Councilmembers expressetl concern with fhe proposal due to the
northbqund traffic trying to access Main Street and the hospital.
Mayor Lewis insfructed Director powdy to prepare the model.s for further
` ��%" con'siderationby Council committees. ` '�' '
Public Restroom
Director Baker recommended that the City Council postpone
consideration of a downtown restroom until further downtown
development occurs.
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Citv of Auburn Council Ret►eat Summarv Fe6ruarv 28 and 28.2008
Mayor Lewis recessed the meeting at 12'07 foc lunch. The meeting reconvened
at 12:49. _. . __.
ITEM 2 Aiterial Streets
Using PowerPoint siides, Director powdy reviewed pavement
preservation for classified streets (arterials and collectors). Of the
161 miles of City streefs; 79 miles are classified streets.
, Approximately $675,000 i.s allocated from the REETII funds each
year to preserve or reconstruct about one quartermile of classifed
streets. After ten years at this level of funding, the City's system
will deteriorate from the current average system PCI of 67 to an
average PCI of 49. Approximately 33 miles of streets will be in
- good condition, 18 miles will be in fair condition, 5 miles w.ill.be in
poor condition and 26 miles will be in very poor co.ndition.
In. orderto bring all Streets back to a 70 PCI witfiin a ten year time
frame, the City needs to raise $6 million per year for the arterial
system. Addifional annual revenues available with Council approve
include an additional one percent tax on utili4ies (including cable tv),
an additional one percent fax on city utilities, REET 1 funds, and
additional prbperty tax levy.
For the Council's information, Director powdy distrib.uted a copy of
a letter to the State l'reasurer concerning distribution of revenues
received from the freight industry. According to the State, all
historical information says that none of the reVenue collected from
the freight industry is dis#ributed back to local govemments.
Mayor Lewis spoke regarding Dire.ctor powdy's efforts to work with
Valley Cities regarding 4heir truck routes and a regional
transporta4ion truck corridor. Staff ha5 evaluated which routes
4hrough the City that should be considered as regional freight
routes and should qualify for regional end state funding.
Appro�mately$29 million of the arterial preserVation costs relate to
the City's regional freight routes,
_ ,�, .
Mayor Lewis spo.ke briefly regarding aftematives fo.r additional
revenue sources including the formation of a Transportation Disfrict
(ability lies at the county level), a new MVET of $20 per year per
vehicle; and a Vbter approved increase in the MVET beyond the
$20 per year per vehicle.
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Citv of Abburr� Council Retreat Summarv_ Februarv 28 and 29. 2008
Mayor Lewis suggested following the TasK Force's
recommendations as appropriate, pursue funding tFirough the
Vailey Cities fgr the truck routes only, and work with the counties
and/or the Valley Cities for the remaining funds.
Director powdy spoke regarding the "Routes of Regional
Signifoance" and efforts to address the Puget Sound Regional
Council (PSRG) regarding the need for regional funding for 4he
truc.k routeg. Director powdy will be serving on a PSRC
subcommittee to eValuate 4he criteria for selecting the routes and
allocating funding.
Mayor Pro Te.m Singer spoke in favor of a two-step approach: 1)
implement the Citizens Task Force recommendation and 2) pursue
regional freight moti'iliry route for regional#unding.
Councilmember Wagner spoke in favor of implementing the
Cifizens Task Force recommendation to ino�ease the utility taxes
by one percent with a sunset p�oVision. Mayor Lewis added that
the taxes would sunset w'ith the advent of new'funding sources or
end with the satisfaction of the bonded debt. The funiis would 6e
dedicated to arterial prese+vation with non-major truck routes
4argeted first.
Councilmember Peloia expressed concem with the impact of utility
tax increases on 4he citizens. He requested a .more detailed
analysis of the impact of the tax increase on a household.
Councilmem6ers spoke in favor of implementing the last one
pe�cent of ufility tax for electric.ity, gas, cable and telephone and
increasing by one percent the utility tax on city ovirned utilities, the
proceeds of which will proVide the debt service on $25 million in
bonds to finance the arterial presenration program repaid over
biventy years. Mayor Lewis stated that he will bring to the Council
Committees a series of recommendations (as prbposed by the
Arterial Task Force) to implement fundi�g for a $25 million bond
effo�t for arterial streets and at the same time work with Valley
` "`" " Cities to initiate a. request for $29 m'illion maintenance funding for
Auburn from the freigFit industry, the ports and the state legislature.
Mayor Lewis'insttucted that a member of the Arterial Task Force be
present at each Committee presentation of the proposed arterial
preserva4ion program.
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Citv of Aubum Council RetreaYSummarv - - Februarv 28 and 29.2008
Director powcly reported that the Task Force recommended that
once the arterial street system is at 70 PCI system-wide and the
state revenue is sufficient to mainfain a 70 PCI, the taxes would 6e
sunseted at that time.
ITEM 3 Community Center
Councilinember Wagner; Chair of the Community Center
Committee, presented a handout regarding fhe Les Govg Park
Expansion/Community Center Concepf Design. He encouraged
Gouncilmembers to attend 4he special Gouncil meeting on March
4t" to review the community cente.r building and site concept design
in more detail.
Councilmember Wagner briefly discussed the selection of BLRB
Architects and their qualifications and recent projects: The project
timeline is airtiing towards the prime bidding time which means the
projected move in date will be Ju,ne 2010.
Councilmember Wagner reviewed the details behind the following
design themes:
. The Corrimunity Center design should encourage and
facilitafe public use.
e The Community Cente.r and gym addition should provide
leadership by example regarding design expectations of our
city Ehrough sustainability and environmental stewardship.
. The Commuqity Center should celebrate our community's
history and cultural her'itage.
. The Gommunity CentePs architecture should reflect that of
the Pacific Northwest and Aubum.community.
o The Community Center should be designed for long term
dura6ility and ease of maintenance.
. The Community Cente.r should engender a professional and
positive atmosphere supporting the needs of commuriity
staff and.City.
. The Community Center design must be flexible to
accommodate future needs, known and unknown..
. The Commuriity Center design should convey a feeling of
warmth,-opec�ess and approachability. .
Councilmember Wagner reported that the projecf will not pursue
Leadership in Enyironmental and Energy Design (LEED)
certification, but #he project will include design features that
minimize the project's impact on the environment.
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Citv of Auburn Council Retreat Summarv F.e6ruarv 28 and 28:2008
Councilmembers expresseii interest in pursuing a lower level of
LEED certificafion. The architects believe that the current design of
fhe community centerwill easiJy qualify the project �or a lower level
LEED certification.
_. _
The Commun"ity Center is 18;176 square feet in size,
Counc'ilmember Wagner noted that the la_rger gathering space is
6,915 square feet, and the Committee will be suggesting an
increase in the budget of approximately $500,000 to increase 4he
area to approximately 8,000 sq"uare feet. The gymnasium addition
is 9,873 square feet in size. CurrenUy there are discussions
regarding the participation of the Gi�ls and Bqys Club in the
gymnasium expansio.n..
Councilmember Wagner stated that the project budget is
approaching$13 million.
Councilmember Wagner reviewed the site plan and briefly spoke
regarding the parking capacity. He hopes to reduce the amount of
asphalt that is displayed on the concept design, Pervious asphalt.
will be used for 4he majority of the parking and access areas.
Councilmember Wagner also spoke regarding possible acquisition
ofproperty for additional parking, more green space, and increased
presence: Councilmembers discussed potential prope.rty
acquisitions in the "Golden Triangle" Economic Development
Strategy Area. Furrding for any acquisition would come from the
Cumulative Reserve Fund. (See page 22 for additional
discussion.)
Finance Director Coleman discussed funding options for the
Community Center project. Based on a $12 million loan, the
annual debt service fee ranges from approximately $775,000 to
$958.000 depending on the term. Direetor Coleman stated that
nearly $6 million is available in REET I, $1 million in the Solid
Waste Fund that could be transferred to the General Fund, and
_ . .. .
approximately $450,000 in General Fund annual revenue growth
that could be used toward the project and debt service. Director
Coleman proposed using some of the REET 1 and residual Solid
`� -' Waste Fund to reduce the debt and issue General Obligation
Bonds for the balance of approximately $6 to $7.5 million.
Councilmembers spoke in favor of utilizing $5 m'illion from REET 1,
$1 million from Solid Waste with the remaining $6 to $7 million
fundeci over a period to be determined.
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Citv of Adburn Council Retreaf Summarv -- Feb►uarv 28 aod 29,2008
ITEM 4 Annexation Areas _:
Public Works Director powdy directed the Council's a4tention to the . _
informafion in the retreat packet regarding storm drainage
issues/Comprehensive Storm Drainage Plan Update and
Transportation Impact Fees in fhe annexation areas.
Director powdy proposed an initial city=wide update to-the fiees
6ased upon both the new road projects already identified in the
recently annexed areas as well as fhe additional traffic impacts of
vehicle trips in the annexation areas.
The second update to the traffic impact fee w'ill occur after the 2008
update of the GomprehensiVe Transportation Plan. The second
update will include any new, addi4ional road capacity projects.
Councilmembers expressed support for investigating the possibility
of establishing a separate impact fee zone for the Lea Hill area.
Councilmembers ezpressed support for immediately implementing
an interim city-wide impact fee increase tied to the cost of inflation,
and re-evaluating the fee structLre once fhe Comprehensive
Transportation Plan is adopted.
ITEM 6 ROBERTSON PROPERTY DEVELQPMENT
In 2002, Aubum was approached by the owner of the Valley Drive-
in Theater, Robertson Properties Group (RPG) seeking
redevelopmeM of their site. The property is located in a future
special planning area (Northeast Aubum Special Planning Area)
designated tiy the City Comprehensive Plan and is located in an
areas underserved by roads and utilities.
Since the issuance of an environmental impact staterinent for fhe
project in 2004, the City has been working with the developer on
the formulation of a development ag�eement. A continuing point of
dispute beiween the City and RPG is 4he financing of the public
infrastructure (roads and u4'ilities). RPG has provided the following
proposals: ,
._ �:, .> . a�,
a A tfiree-phase development of the Auburn Gateway Project.
The latest proposal consists of all retail without: office and .
multiple family residential uses, "which is a departure from
the land uses studied in the EIS.
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Citv of Aubum Council Retreat Summarv- Februarv 28 and 29.2008
. A cost sharing between the City and RPG for infrastructure
improvements based on the three phases; and
. A proposal for property tax and sales tax revenue accruing
to the Cit�r based on the three phases and the 15-year
development period..
RPG hes requested City participation of $4,937,477 as its
proportional share of the required infrastructure improvements
which 'is above the level the City typically participates and beyontl
the City's current offer of$3:7 million.
Finance Director Coleman estimated that the reyenus from the
development at build-out and occupancy is approximately
$900,OQ0 annually.
Following discussion, Councilmembers sp"oke in faaor of
contributing $4,937,477 for infrastructure upon an agreeable
deVelopment agreement with the proposed footprint, and provided
4hat consfrucfion of #he frst phase begins on a date certain, wifh
plans submitted by November 1, 2008. The approximate $1.1
million in excess of the current City participation of $3:7 million
would conie ftom cumulative reserve funds.
Director Baker reminded the Council that RPG s4'ill needs a
Comprehensiye Plan Amendment and a rezone in order to
proceed. Mayor Lewis directed thaf staff investigate and advise
whether the necessary Comprehensiye Plan amendment and
rezone could be acxomplished to meet the NoVember 1, 2008
deadline for plans submis§ion.
Director powdy also added that RPG may need to build more than
their normal half'street, and where RPG dedicates right of way and
provides meaningful capital improvements, 4he cost ofwhich would
be credited agairist their trafficimpact fees.
At 3:26 p:m Mayor Lewis recessed the meeting for approximately ten minutes.
The meeting reconvened at 3:35.
� 1TEM 7 Strategic Plan for Making Aubum'a Center for Entertainmerrt
and the Arts
Gouncilmember Norman spoke in favor of developing a plan for
making Au6um a center for entertainmeM and the arts, including
the City's plan for marketing the image and build upon additional
economic opportunities.
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Citv of Auburn Councii Retreat Summarv Februarv 28 and 29.2008
Mayor Pro Tem Singer stated that the City approved..the Tourism.
Board's strategic m.arketing plan for entertainment and the arts.
Gouncilmember Wagner suggested includ.ing an element in the �
Comprehensive Pian relating to fostering entertainment and/or the
arts in Aubum. Councilmembers spoke in favor of Councilmember
WagnePs sUggestion, Gouncilmember 1Nagner also suggested
that the component should add�ess the business aspect as well as
quality of life enhancement.
Mayor Lewis suggested hosting a comedy nigfit and/or jazz.night at
the Aubum Avenue Theater. Councilmember Norman a.lso
suggested hosting a film series at the Aubum Avenue Theater.
Director Faber stated that the Kids on the Ave program ha§ been
running at the Auburn Avenue-Theater. So far the program has
been well received. Mayor Lewis requested that Director Faber
prepare fhree separate proposals for ongoing comedy nights, jau
nigh4s, and an expansion of the Kids on the Ave matinee
p.erFortnances.
ITEM 8 Develop Plan and Approve Gosts for Golden Triangle Area
See Item 9 below for discussion,.
ITEM 9 Identify and Create Aubu"rn Way South Redevelopment Plan
and Costs
Mayor Lewis announced 4hat the Tribe will likely be moVing forward
with a development on the Miles site close to Higtiway 18.
Mayor Lewis urged Councilmembers for any suggestions for
redevelopment of Aubum Way South from 6t" to 12�' and east to M
Street:
Councilme.mbers briefly spoke regarding possible land trades with
the Tribe.
Counc'ilmember Wagner requested a sfudy of the M StreeUAuburn
Way South intersection fo� possible reconfiguration (i,e. elimination
of southboun�tl left tum lane and the cut through that goes to the � `�f
Zion Lutheran Church) fhat would enhance commercial
development, Mayor Lewis requested that Director powdy study
the intersection and bring forvvard #o the Public Works Committee
an update regarding the needed land around the Zion Lutheran
Church.
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Citv of Aubum Council Retreat Summarv Februarv28.and 29. 2008
ITEM 10 Council Commitment to MIT/Aubum Planning for Future
_ _ _ _.
Councilmember Wagner suggested including the Tribe in the
deVelopment of the neighborhoo.d plan for the Dogwood area.
Mayor Lewis reported that he is working on setting up a joint policy
planning meeting between the City.
ITEM 11 Driying Range at Golf Course
Parks, Arts and Recreation Director Fab.er proposed a 1.2-14 stall
driving range for the Aubum Golf Gourse. The cost is $650,000
with wooden pol.es and $850,000 with metal poles. App�oximately
$150,U00 of the funds dedicated to the golf course clubhouse
project with approximately $50,000 left to be completed on the
' clubhouse project. Director Faber spoke in favor of`a driving range,
but stated he is more comfortable waiting for a couple seasons to
gauge fhe golf course incame.
Councilmembers spoke in favor of purchasing some driving cages
until such time as the Council agrees to fund a new driving range.
Councilmembers suggested going through with design and
subm'itting the projecf for its permit pending funding.
ITEM 12 Preseryation of Historic.Auburn
This item will be discussed at the next Committee of the Whole
meeting scheduled for March 31, 2008. Gomm.ittee of the Whole
will reView the contribution of the Ballard family to Aubum's history,
four historic buildings (Garnegie Library aka Auburii Dance, Auburn
Post Office aka King County Health, North Coasf Transportation
�Company aka Aubum Avenue The.ater, and the Ballard family
home), and the viability of preserving the East Main Street
neighbo.rhoodas a neighborhood of historical significance.
ITEM 13 Airport Development
Councilmember Wagner spoke in favor of higher lease rates and
shorter lease terms for airport property. •
Councilmembers briefly discussed possible uses of the west side of
' the airport. �-' "
Finance Director Coleman stated that three projects are under
consideration for4he airport:
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Citv of Auburn Council Retreat Summarv __ Februarv 28 and 29.2U06
1. Development of the three remaining land areas at the
airport. A Request for Proposals for development of the
remaining properties will be issued this spring, . _
2. Repair of the roofs for hangar rows 9 and 1 q.
3. Repair or rehabilitation of hangar rows 2 through 7.
ITEM 14 DeVelop Criferia for Reviewing City Owned Property
Fluman Resources/Risk Management Director Heineman
presented a proposed internal policy regarding real property:
Mayor Lewis proposed establishing criteria for retaining Gity-owned
property. The proposal will be reviewed through the Council
Committee process.
ITEM 15 Fully Fund SOS Program
Gouncilmembers reviewed the documents contained in the Council
packet. There was no discussion.
The Gouncil meeting adjoumed at 5:00 for dinner to meet again on Friday,
Februa_ry 29, 2008 at 8'00 a.m..
The Council reconvened their meeting at 8:00 am in the H.arbormaster
Restaurant conference room located in Port Ludlow, Washington.
Mayor Lewis and Counc'ilmembers Rich Wagner, Sue Singer, Gene Cerino,
Nancy Backus, B'ill Peloza and Lynn Norman were present.
Staff members present included; Planning, Building and Community Director
Cindy Baker; Pu61ic WorKs Director Dennis Dowdy; City Attomey Daniel B. Heid;
Finance Di�ector Shelley Coleman; Information Services Director Lome
Rempher; Parks, Arts and Recreation Manager Da_ryl Faber; Human
Resources/Risk Manager B�enda Heineman; Chief of Police Jim Kelly;
Communications Manage� Dana Hinman; Executiye Assistant Tamie Bothell;
and City CIerK Danielle Daskam.
ITEM 5 AEP AND GREEN ZONE
Counc'il reviewed the AEP/Green Zone Strategy Area and
discuss�d expand.ing'`the boundaries for fhe Green Zone from the � - <�
Union Pac�c tracks to the Burlington Northem Santa Fe tracks and
possibly further north. Councilmembers discussed expanding the
area even furtherto West Valley and north to 15�' Street and south
to Highway 18.
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Citv of Aubum Council Retreat Summarv Februarv-28.and 28.2008
Councilmembers discussed their dision of the Green Zone. Mayor
Pro Tem Singer spoke regarding the differences she sees between
the qngoing project. in Kitsap County and Auburn's Green Zone.
She envisions the Green Zone as an area with iero impact
regulations.
Councilmember Peloia questioned the purpose of the green zone
and its benefits.
Counc"ilmemtier Norman explained that the AEP is environmentally
sensifive, and if is vatuable to have a buffer zone or protected area ,
around the AEP. Through discussions it evolved as the Green
Zone that would attract environmentaJly sound businesses, low
impact development, and promotion of build green concepts. She
envisioned an environmentally sound presence next to the AEP
that would be an example for the enti[e city.
Councifinembers Norman, Singer and Backus spoke regarding fhe
types ofi businesses that would be attracted to the Green Zone and
the image prbjected.
Councilmembers discussed Green Zone incentives and mitiga4ion
and the effects of expanding the Green Zone on existing
businesses.
Director Baker spoke briefly regarding the City of Des Moines (WA)
and their Request for ProposaUQual�cations for development.
Councilmember Norman noted the number of environmentally
sertsitive businesses that Have been drawn to the City of Kent.
Mayor Pro Tem Singer suggested that more public funds need to
be invested; and West Main Street needs to look like a "no impact"
boulevard.
Councilmembers spoke in fayor of hearing from the City of Des
Moines on their RFP for develqpment and then developing an RFP.
' ITEM 76 Complete A/B Street Corridor •��- •
Public Director powdy updated 4he Council on #he AIB Street
Corridor Project. The enVironmental review will be completed tfiis
year. The design and property acquisition will be complete next
year and the project.bid as soon as possible.
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Citv of Aubum Council Retreat SummarV Februarv 28 and 29. 2008
Direcfor powdy noted 4hat the project has secured funding for all
but approximately $4.7 million. Staff members continue to work on
additional grant funding to complete the project.
The first segment of the project will be built from the Mohawk
property down to Third Street near the post office, proviiiing a
connection befinreen 10'h and 3rd Streets. The total prqject cost is
$12 million. Additional funding will be needed to extend the
connection to 15t" Street.
Councilmember Wagner questio.ned the engineering estimates as
the last Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) indicated that $12
million would accomplish the project to 14N Street. Director powdy
responded that the estimates in the TIP are based on planning and
not on preliminary design.
Councilmember Wagner expressed concern w'ith 4he amount of
traffic that the frst phase will Place on 3`� Street. He proposed
including the section from 3rd to Main Street in 4he same time frame
as the initial segment..
Mayor Lewis directed that the A/B Corritlor Rroject go back to the
Public Works Committee forreView of project cost.
Councilmember Norman spoke against segmenting the project and
dumping traffic on 3rd Street.
ITEM 17 SCADA
Public Works Director powdy presented information regarding the
City's Utili4ies Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)
System. SCADA is a telemetry system that monitors cri4ical
facilities for all utilities, including reservoi[s, pump stations and Irft
stations. The City's current monitoring system has been in use
since the 1960's. A consultant has been contracted to develop a
feasibility study which includes acJdressing the vulnerability of the
water system. The total project cost'is estimated at several million
and will be phased. The cost of the system will be borne by utility
rates.
;;�• - - �_• -
Councilmember Pe.loza stated that security for the wafer system
should be a priority. Councilmember Wagner suggested reserving
some channels for §torm water quality outfall monitoring in light of
NPDES.
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Citv of Aubdm Councfl Retreat Summarv Februarv 28 and 29. 2008
Director powdy noted that be.sides the security features, SCADA
also increases staff productiyity and provides rieeded redundancy.
ITEM 18 M & O Expansion.
Pu.blic Works Director powdy reviewed the proposed expansion of
the Maintenance and Operation (M & O) facility to meet the
increase in staffng and equipment:
• Construction of a new multi-purpose room on the northeast
comer of the existing building for sfaff meetings and ofher
City uses.
• Expansion of the crew area
. Remodel the existing lunchroom/meeting room into a
Department Operations Center for emergency response with
part of the area converted to a new co-ed laundry room with
equipment drying area.
e Const�uction of atldifional office space on the southwest
corner of the existing building that would consist of fou� new
offices formanagers and supervisors.
• Addition of a new drive through bay to the existing
equipment rental facility that would accommodate �arger
vehicles/equipment.
Finance Director Coleman explained that it is proposed to create
an intemal service fund in fhe 2009-2010 Biennial Budget for
facilities. The M & Q Expansion project would be incorporated in
th.e facilities fund: Any capital costs and ongoing maintenance
costs would be charged back to other funds: The M & O
Expansion would be funded from the Street Funtl (25°h) and 4he
remainder to the utilities: Monies from the Street Fund would come
from REET 1 funds with additional funds coming from the
Equipment Rental Fund. The total project cost. is estimated at $5
million.
Pa.rks, Arts and Recreation Director Faber spoke regarding the
potential relocation of the Parks Maintenance Facility form the M 8�
O §ite, which is largely dependent upo.n the $tate's relocation of
their offices from fhe Game Farm Park location.
Director powdy also spoke regarding the need to develop
remote/satellite yards, including an additional decant facility, in light
of the recent annexations.
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Citv of Au6u'm Council Retreat Summarv Februarv 28 and.29.2008
Mayor Lewis assured the Council that there is no f.urther plan to
relocate the M 8� 0 Maintenance Facility.
Councilmembers spoke 'in support of the M & O Maintenance
Facility expans.ion.
Director Coleman reminded thatthe project needs to be included in
the utility rate sfudy.
Mayor Lewis recessed the meeting at 9:42 a.m. for approximately 15
minu4es to allow Councilmembers to checkout ofi their rooms. The
meeting reconvened at 10:05 a.m.
ITEM 19 SR164 CorridorPlan
Public Works Director powdy reported that the State is working on
redrafting the SR 164 Corridor Plan and anticipates completion in
May 2008.
The State is also working on the Alternate Route Study scope. The
State has $350,000 allocated for the bypass study. Two of the
three proposed bypass routes go across Tribal lands.
Councilmember Wagner suggested removing one of 4he op4ions
fhat states multiple property owners make the alternative unlikely.
ITEM 20 Water Rights
Mayor Lewis reported fhat Cascade Water Alliance is making an
announcement today that they have come to an agreement with
Puget Sound Energy regarding Lake Tapps and water rights.
Mayor Lewis stated 4hat Aubum still needs an additional 12 million
gallons of water p.er day for build out for tfie summer monfhs; the
City has adequate water for winter months. The City cou.ld take out
m.ore water during winter if the City had additional sto�age options.
Mayor Lewis reported that Lakehaven Utility District'is working on a
project called, Oasis, where possible storage may be available,
Addfionally, Lakewood has approximately one million gatlons of
excess water, and Tacoma also has excess capacity. Mayor Lewis
' also spoke about the possibility of infiltration of reclaimed water. :�a •-
Discussions con4inue among the cities of Aubum, Bonney Lake,
and Sumner regarding Lake Tapps and water rights.
Councilmembers discussed additional conservation efforts, i.e.
rationing, effect of rates, and a requirements that developers bring
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Citv of Aubum Council Retreat'$ummarv Februarv 28 and 29.2008
their own water rights to the Gity when they develop (City Attomey
Heid will research feasibiliry of such condition).
Director powdy recommended including the cost of future water
needs in fhe utility rates. •
Councilmember Norrnan suggested emphasizing environmental
aspect for development.
Director powdy stated by 2016 to 2Q20, the City will be at its
maximum of current water rights. He recommended raising System
Development Gharge§ for certain kinds of development to help pay
for any new wate�.
Councilmember Norman expressed frustration with State Growth
Management mandates; while the State does not address the
water issues or other infrastructu�e needs due to growth.
Couhcilmembers discussed conserva#ion efforts. Mayor Lewis
agreed to develop a positive conservation campaign that 15ighlights
incentives.
Di�ector powdy spoke briefly regarding development of a new well
field. The Department of Ecology has adyised that any new well
should be located close to the Green River and as far away from
Mill Greek and the White River in order to avoid impacting the two
streams. A potential well field site is the Pipeline 5 site north of 3Utn
Street.
Director powdy discussed the differences between infiltration and
injeotion. Director powdy believes that by regulation, the
Department of Ecology is encouraging utilities to recycle grey
water.
ITEM 21 Jail Study
Cities in King County are facing the elimination of jail space for
misdemeanor offenders.. King County Jail and Yakima County Jail
a�e currently u4ilized to provide housing for misdemeanor
offenders. The cantracts with both jails expire within the next four � �
years and altemative housing must be found.
After reviewing altematiVes, the cities of King County have
ident�eii the con§tFuction of new jail facilities as the most viable
option for misdemeanor jail capacity. The cities of Aubum, Des
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Citv of Aubum Council Retreat Summarv F.ebruarv.28 and 29.2008
Moines, Federal Way, Kent, Renton and Tukwila haye joined
together, as "SCORE", the South Correctional Enfity. SCQRE.
cities are recommending the creatio� of a Public DeVelopment
Authority (PDA) to issue bonds for the consfn:iction of an $08 bed
jaiL Thefacilitywill be operated by SCORE and set up in a manner .
similar to Valley Gom.
The capital costs would be bome e:qua.11y by six cities and operation
costs would be based on usage. The City's capital cost share
would be approximately $16 million.
Councilmember Wagner indicated he generally supports the
proposal, but questio"ned 4he termination provisions.
In response to questions from Councilmember Norman, Chief Kelly
stated that the proposed design is expandable as long as the
selected building site issufficient to allow expansion. The optimum
site is 18-19 acres. The facility would be a combination of
dormitory and bunking. The feasibility study has taken into
considera4ion 4he national jail standards.
Councilmember Wagner suggested getting more information on
medical costs and mental health costs.
Counc'ilmembers spoke in fayor gf creating a PDA for SCORE,
authorizing the fnancing, consfruction and operation of a multi-
jurisdictional misdemeanor jail facility.
Mayor Lewis stated that the C.ity would be opposed to any
ag�eement tha4 would allow a city to withdraw from its bonding
obligation. Mayor Lewis asked that Councilmember Wagner and
Councilmember Peloza join him in meetings regarding SCORE.
SR 167 Corridor Study/HOT Lanes Mayor Prq Tem 8inger stated that
Washington State Department of Transportation has announced
the proposal for one additional lane in each direction on State
Route 167 from Interstate 4U5 to Highway 18 and toll HOT lanes
extending south of Highway 18. Councilmembers discussed the
` ` "priority oftlie SR 167 link over the consfruction of additional fane�- -�
Cultural Friendship Center
Mayor Pro Tem Singer proposed the concept of a Cultural
Friendship Center. Ttie 'idea is a result of ineetings held with the
Latino community leaders for a meeting p.lace/friendship center.
Page 21
Ci4v ofAubum Council Retreat Summarv - - Eebruarv 28 and 29.2008
Mayor Pro Tem Singer proposed a Friendship Center for a diverse
group of cultures:
Gouncilmembers expressed suppo.rt for allocating storage space at
ths new Community Ce.nter for ethnic groups and in favor ofadding
addifional space at the community center forthis purpose.
Councilmember Peloza stated that in an effort to bring a farmers'
market to Au6urn, fhe organizers are trying to bring an international
flavor to the market. Councilmember Peloza also questioned
whether any of the existing community celebrations could be more
culturally diverse.
Lake Tapps Mayor Lewis reported that Cascade Water Alliance (CWA) outlined
it sales agreement with Puget Sound Energy (PSE) to purchase
Lake Tapps. The total purchase price is $39 million: CWA's offer
calls for $25 million up front plus $5 million when the water right is
perFected, and as long as the Tribes agree nat to appeal the water
right. CWA will also pay an additional $9 million for reimburse.ment
for water right costs that PSE has had to pay.
Mayor Lewis questioned whether once an offer to purchase has
been tendered to P$E, a publicly fraded company, PSE is required
to consider all proposals. Counc'ilmembers spoke in fiaygr of
making an offer fo PSE.
L-ES GOVE PARK EXPANSION Finance Director Coleman reque5ted
clarification of previous discussion regarding the financing for the
purchase of any properties for the expansion of Les Gove Park.
Finance Di�ector Coleman stated that there are not sufficient funds
in the Cumulative Reserve Fund, and the City would haVe to sell
bonds to firtance purchases.
Councilmembers spoke about the possibility of working on a
cooperative approach to purchase properties where the private
party purchases and sell.s back a portion that the cdy needs for
expansion.
` 'I`1�ere being rio further discussion,the meeting adjoumed at 1220 �pn.
Summary prepared by: --
Danielle Daskam, City Clerk
Page 22