HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - August 13, 2012RENTON CITY COUNCIL
Regular Meeting
August 13, 2012
Monday, 7 p.m. MINUTES
Council Chambers
Renton City Hall
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL OF
COUNCILMEMBERS
CITY STAFF IN ATTENDANCE
PUBLIC HEARING
Transportation: 2013-2018
Six-Year Transportation
Improvement Program (TIP)
Mayor Law called the meeting of the Renton City Council to order and led the
Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
RICH ZWICKER, Council President; TERRI BRIERE; ED PRINCE; DON PERSSON;
MARCIE PALMER; RANDY CORMAN; GREG TAYLOR. (Rich Zwicker left the
meeting at 8:57 p.m.)
DENIS LAW, Mayor; MARK BARBER, Senior Assistant City Attorney; BONNIE
WALTON, City Clerk; GREGG ZIMMERMAN, Public Works Administrator; IWEN
WANG, Administrative Services Administrator; Doug Jacobsen; Deputy Public
Works Administrator - Transportation; PREETI SHRIDHAR, Deputy Public Affairs
Administrator; SUZANNE DALE ESTEY, Economic Development Director; PETER
RENNER, Facilities Director; JIM SEITZ; Transportation Planning & Program
Supervisor; COMMANDER FLOYD ELDRIDGE, Police Department.
This being the date set and proper notices having been posted and published in
accordance with local and State laws, Mayor Law opened the public hearing to
consider the annual update of the Six-Year Transportation Improvement
Program (TIP), 2013-2018.
Transportation Planning and Program Supervisor Jim Seitz reported that
transportation programs and projects are required to be incorporated into the
TIP in order to receive State or Federal funding. He explained that the purpose
of the TIP is to develop a multi-year plan for the development of transportation
facilities and to develop funding plans for each project or program. He also
stated that the TIP is coordinated with public and private utilities in an effort to
coordinate their facility improvements.
Mr. Seitz reported that the TIP supports the City's business plan by promoting
planned growth for the community, providing infrastructure for economic
development, and supports overall objectives, policies, capital facilities plan,
and transportation elements of the Comprehensive Plan. He reported that the
City allocates its funds in order to leverage outside funding for the programs
and projects in the TIP.
Mr. Seitz further reported that the TIP contains 42 programs and projects
including 16 corridor projects, seven system preservation programs, six non-
motorized programs, two safety programs, two area transit programs, and nine
other programs such as the 1% for Arts and Neighborhood Plan.
Mr. Seitz highlighted current projects including Rainier Ave. S. - S. Grady Way to
S. 2nd St., Garden Ave. N. Widening and Intersection Improvements, NE 4th St.
- Union Ave. NE to Whitman Ave. NE Improvements, SW 27th St./Strander Blvd
Connection, and the Highlands to Landing/Boeing Pedestrian Connection. He
also noted that two collector streets were added to the Arterial Street Plan due
to the Gale Annexation.
August 13, 2012 Renton City Council Minutes Page 231
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
AUDIENCE COMMENT
Citizen Comment: Avery -
Audience Comment Policy
Change
Concluding, Mr. Seitz reported that of the total expenditures for the 2013-2018
TIP, approximately $47 million is funded and $149 million is unfunded. He
reviewed the various funding sources, options for unfunded needs, and the
impact that the economy has had on the TIP. He reviewed revenue sources and
stated that 66% of funding is from grants, 23% is from City business license
fees, 9% is from the gas fuel tax, and 2% is from mitigation fees. Mr. Seitz
remarked that questions had come up during the Transportation (Aviation)
Committee and that staff recommends that Council take no action on the TIP at
this meeting.
Public comment was invited.
Mark Martinez (Renton) expressed concern that the City was paying for a
pedestrian walkway that will likely not be used because it is located on a very
long and steep hill. He suggested that there are better ways to spend the funds
including enhancing the downtown area and mitigating traffic.
Councilmember Persson remarked that quite a few citizens have requested that
the walkway be built. He shared stories of residents who have to walk that way
to work, and noted that the State is contributing most of the funding because
the walkway should have been included when the road was constructed.
Kathie Ossenkop (Renton) expressed concern about the quality of the air along
the Sunset Blvd. corridor. She explained that she tested the air quality on a
Friday afternoon and became sick from inhaling too much automobile exhaust.
She stated that Council should consider the affect of the exhaust fumes on
children with asthma who may utilize the walkway.
Dave Beedon (Renton) asked for clarification of the term collector street. Mr.
Seitz responded that the term is a street classification and that a collector
street collects vehicles and pedestrians from residential streets and delivers
them to major arterial streets. Continuing, Mr. Beedon remarked that the
number of pedestrians walking on Puget Dr. S. increased dramatically after a
sidewalk was constructed.
There being no further public comment, it was MOVED BY ZWICKER, SECONDED
BY CORMAN, COUNCIL CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING. CARRIED.
Mayor Law reported that overwhelming preference was expressed by voters in
the 8/7/2012 election for the downtown library to remain over the Cedar River.
He stated that the City is moving forward with discussions with the King County
Library System (KCLS) to facilitate design work and other issues required at that
location.
Stuart Avery (Renton) expressed concern regarding the 8/6/2012 action taken
to reduce the time allotted to citizens during audience comment periods. He
also expressed disappointment with the new restriction that limits the second
audience comment period to new topics. Mr. Avery stated that the speaking
times are beneficial to the public because residents not in attendance can have
transparent access to the view-points. He also stated that overly redundant
messages coming from the public are an indicator that an issue may require
more attention.
August 13, 2012 Renton City Council Minutes Page 232
Citizen Comment: Beedon -
Audience Comment Policy
Change
Citizen Comment: Johnson -
Audience Comment Policy
Change
Citizen Comment: Diamond
United Nations Agenda 21
Citizen Comment: Lambert
Cedar River Library
Citizen Comment: Bray-
Audience Comment Policy
Change
Dave Beedon (Renton) objected to the recent action taken to reduce the time
allotted to citizens during the audience comment periods. He stated that
reducing the time limit from five to three minutes will not stop people from
rambling.
Ben Johnson (Renton) shared stories indicating that public comment is useful
because sometimes regular citizens come up with good ideas. He suggested
banning arcane topics and moving the Committee of the Whole meeting to
after the Council meeting to improve efficiency.
Ed Diamond (King County), representing Washington Citizens for Sustainable
Economy, invited City officials to attend a meeting on August 29 regarding
United Nations Agenda 21. He stated that many municipalities have come to
see what the true agenda is and have withdrawn membership from the
International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI).
Kal Lambert (King County) stated that citizen participation regarding the library
issue must continue because of the recent vote for the Cedar River Library. He
remarked that the interlocal agreement (ILA) with the King County Library
System (KCLS) now appears to be in conflict with the will of the Renton voters.
Mr. Lambert also remarked that he does not believe the City can rely on the
support of the City Attorney and suggested that City can buy the legal help it
needs to handle the ILA. He added that members of the audience have
documents and information regarding the library renovation, and requested
that experts from Citizens for the Cedar River Library be allowed to schedule a
presentation on these facts.
Councilmember Corman stated that the City will take his request under
consideration. He reiterated that the Mayor emphasized that the City is
moving forward, and he believes the topic is relevant and should be rolled into
the planning process.
Richard Bray (Renton) expressed disappointment in the reduction of time
allotted to speakers for audience comment. He explained that in a previous
instance he could only address Council during the second audience comment
period because of attending his son's baseball games, and the new policy would
eliminate such opportunity. He urged Council to reconsider the policy change.
Councilmember Briere stated that she believes there is a misinterpretation
regarding the second audience comment period. She explained that the goal
was to preclude persons who spoke on a topic during the first audience
comment period to reiterate the same points during the second audience
comment period.
Councilmember Taylor remarked that nonetheless the policy change created a
reduction of audience comment. He explained that the first period was
reduced by 40% and the second period was reduced by 60%. He noted that if
someone missed the first period they are then limited to two minutes. Mr.
Taylor also remarked that sometimes it takes redundancy in order for Council
to understand the importance of the remarks.
August 13, 2012 Renton City Council Minutes Page 233
Citizen Comment: Greene-
Crook - Cedar River Library
Citizen Comment: Pajor -
Audience Comment Policy
Change & Cedar River Library
Citizen Comment: Ossenkop
Audience Comment Policy
Change
Citizen Comment: McOmber •
Renton Highlands
Jeannie Greene-Crook (Renton) stated that she would like City officials to honor
the 76% of voters who supported the Cedar River Library by not holding up or
delaying any permitting, procedures, or actions in order to delay the
refurbishing of the library. She remarked that anyone who felt they could not
do this job should step down from their positions.
Johnjoseph Pajor (Renton) stated that public comments limited to three
minutes per speaker is insufficient. He explained that City officials are to
govern under a sacred trust as representative government, and public meetings
are made for public awareness and public input. Mr. Pajor remarked that in the
past Council has moved ahead on issues when the public clearly disagreed with
their actions, and reversing the landslide voter approval of retaining the Cedar
River Library as suggested by the Renton Reporter would be political suicide.
Councilmember Persson stated that he believes that this is another
misunderstanding because, as the Mayor clearly stated, the vote is over and he
has directed City staff to move post-haste to work with KCLS to refurbish the
library over the river.
Kathy Ossenkop (Renton) stated that she is outraged that Council changed the
time limits that speakers are allotted during the audience comment periods.
She remarked that the time limits were something residents could historically
count on, and not everyone can articulate their thoughts in three minutes or
less.
Council President Zwicker explained that the original policy limited the first
audience comment period to 30 minutes so Council could conduct its business.
He also explained that the second audience comment was only meant to be
used as overflow from the first period, and was not meant to be used for
rebuttals. Mr. Zwicker pointed out that the old policy was often not followed,
therefore Council made an attempt to improve meeting efficiency by codifying
the elimination of the 30-minute time limit, the reduction in the allotted
speaking times, and also guaranteed a second audience comment period.
Howard McOmber (Renton) stated that Council sets the policy and direction for
the City, and requested that the Planning Division be given flexibility regarding
redevelopment in the Highlands. He emphasized that the Highlands area is the
best kept secret for affordable housing in Western Washington, and he would
like it to remain that way.
Councilmember Corman stated that Mr. McOmber is alluding to a thought from
a few years ago that the old duplexes could be redeveloped through some type
of government ownership program, and pointed out that that idea was
scrapped because of public input. He added that the duplexes have not been
removed as the lots have been redeveloped, and that City staff believes the
intention is to remove the duplexes when the lots are redeveloped. Mr.
Corman stated that is the issue currently before the Planning and Development
Committee. He suggested that the public needs to weigh-in on the topic.
August 13, 2012 Renton City Council Minutes Page 234
Citizen Comment: Keyes -
Audience Comment Policy
Change
Citizen Comment: Hassan -
Audience Comment Policy
Change
Citizen Comment: Battle
Glass-Steagall Act
Citizen Comment: Stuart
Glass-Steagall Act
Citizen Comment: Poitras -
Audience Comment Policy
Change
Citizen Comment: Asher -
Audience Comment Policy
Change
CONSENT AGENDA
Council: Meeting Minutes of
8/6/2012
David Keyes (Renton) thanked Councilmember Briere for the clarification
regarding the second audience comment period, but stated that the message
did not come through in the text that was written on the agenda. He stated
that time allotted to speakers should not be shortened, and pointed out that
the Council meetings are already fairly efficient averaging only 36 minutes long
in 2012 with a few exceptions.
Mohamed Hassan (Renton) expressed concern regarding the reduction in the
amount of time allotted to speakers during audience comment periods. He
remarked that people in Renton speak many different languages and may have
a hard time expressing themselves in three minutes. He also stated that City
Hall is the people's house, and everyone should feel welcome to come and
speak to Council at length about important issues.
Stewart Battle (Shoreline), representing the LaRouche Political Action
Committee (PAC), shared information regarding the downturn in the global and
American economies. He asked that Council support the Glass-Steagall Act that
would separate commercial and investment banking.
Sara Stuart (Seattle), representing the LaRouche Political Action Committee
(PAC), requested that Council pass a resolution in support of HR 1489, a
resolution in Congress that calls for the separation of commercial and
investment banks.
Senior Assistant City Attorney Barber cautioned that the speaker may reference
issues of public concern, but under the Public Disclosure Act, RCW 42.17A.555,
could not campaign for any ballot measure, whether it be local, state, or
federal, or campaign for any candidate.
Ms. Stuart clarified that she would like to see support of the Glass-Steagall act.
She read a list of institutions in Washington state that support the act. Ms.
Stuart also outlined a plan called the North American Water and Power Alliance
that would immediately employ six million people.
Bob Poitras (Renton) remarked that he opposes the three minute time limit for
speakers, and asked that if it remains that he be allowed to yield his time to
another speaker. He also asked if the traffic signal at Lind Ave. SW and S. 180th
St. could be reprogrammed. Mayor Law remarked that Public Works
Administrator Gregg Zimmerman would look into it.
Beth Asher (Renton) stated that the audience also has to sit through the same
repetitive comments, and that most people repeat themselves so Council
understands the importance of what they are saying. She pointed out that a
survey was conducted in 2011 regarding how well the City communicates with
its citizens and only 4.4% of residents could find and take the survey. She asked
that people be given more opportunities to speak to Council, including being
able to make presentations.
Items listed on the consent agenda are adopted by one motion which follows
the listing.
Approval of Council meeting minutes of 8/6/2012. Council concur.
August 13, 2012 Renton City Council Minutes Page 235
Appointment: Library Advisory
Board
CAG: 12-091, Taxiway Bravo
System Rehabilitation - North
Portion Reconstruction &
Airfield Signage Modifications,
ICON Materials
Administrative Services:
Intergovernmental
Cooperative Purchasing
Agreement, Yakima County
Public Works: Storage Bays to
Garage Bays Conversion, Fund
501 Allocation
CAG: 12-011, Design and
Right-of-Way Services,
Parametrix Inc
Transportation: Aerospace
Training Facility, WA DOC
Grant
Transportation: Taxiway Bravo
Rehabilitation, FAA Grant
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Planning & Development
Committee
CED: Extending Sunset Clause
for Owner-Occupied and
Rental Housing Incentive
Programs
Mayor Law reappointed Suzi Ure to the Library Advisory Board for a five-year
term expiring 9/1/2017. Council concur.
City Clerk reported bid opening on 7/19/2012 for CAG-12-091; Taxiway Bravo
System Rehabilitation - North Portion Reconstruction & Airfield Signage
Modifications project; engineer's estimate $2,392,584.36; and submitted staff
recommendation to award the contract to the low bidder, ICON Materials, in
the amount of $2,364,463.61. Refer to Transportation (Aviation) Committee
for discussion of minor irregularities and funding.
Administrative Services Department recommended approval of an
Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreement with Yakima County to
extend the right to purchase goods and services pursuant to bids and contracts
statutes. Council concur. (See page 239 for resolution.)
Public Works Department recommended approval to allocate $30,000 from
Equipment Rental Fund 501 to convert two storage bays in the Public Works
Maintenance Shops Building D to two garage bays. Refer to Finance
Committee.
Transportation Systems Division recommended approval of Supplemental
Agreement No. 1 to CAG-12-011, with Parametrix, Inc., in the amount of
$98,866.77 for design and right-of-way services for the NE 3rd/4th Corridor
Improvements, Phase I project. Council concur.
Transportation Systems Division recommended approval of a Direct
Appropriations Agreement with the Washington State Department of
Commerce to accept $2,462,500 in grant funds for the construction of a new
aerospace training facility at the Renton airport, and establishment of the
project budget. Council concur.
Transportation Systems Division recommended approval of an agreement with
the Federal Aviation Administration to accept $2.75 million in grant funds for
the Taxiway Bravo Rehabilitation Project, Phase I; and approval to transfer
$305,555.56 from the Airport's End Fund Balance to the project budget.
Council concur.
MOVED BY ZWICKER, SECONDED BY BRIERE, COUNCIL APPROVE THE CONSENT
AGENDA AS PRESENTED. CARRIED.
Planning and Development Committee Chair Prince presented a report
recommending concurrence in the staff recommendation to approve an
extension of the sunset clause for Owner-Occupied Housing Incentive and
Rental Housing Incentive for three years, to December 31, 2015, unless further
extended by City Council action.
The Committee further recommended that the ordinance regarding this matter
be presented for first reading.
MOVED BY PRINCE, SECONDED BY BRIERE, COUNCIL CONCUR IN THE
COMMITTEE REPORT. CARRIED. (See page 239 for ordinance.)
August 13, 2012 Renton City Council Minutes Page 236
CED: Extending Sunset Clause
for Multi-Family Housing
Property Tax Exemption
Program
Community Services
Committee
Appointment: Library Advisory
Board
Planning and Development Committee Chair Prince presented a report
recommending concurrence in the staff recommendation to approve an
extension of the sunset clause for acceptance of new applications for multi-
family housing property tax exemption in residential targeted areas for three
years, to December 31, 2015, unless further extended by City Council action.
The Committee further recommended that the ordinance regarding this matter
be presented for first reading.
MOVED BY PRINCE, SECONDED BY BRIERE, COUNCIL CONCUR IN THE
COMMITTEE REPORT CARRIED. (See page 240 for ordinance.)
Councilmember Palmer announced that she was holding the committee report
on filling the vacancy on the Library Advisory Board because she would like to
look at all of the people on the board in light of the recent election regarding
the Cedar River Library site. She stated that she would like to consider
someone for the board that supported the Cedar River Library since that is the
direction the City will be moving.
Councilmember Briere asked if that was a decision made by the entire
committee. She expressed surprise that someone would not be allowed to
serve on the board because they had supported the Piazza location.
Ms. Palmer clarified that she and Mr. Prince were present for the Committee
meeting and Mr. Taylor was absent. She stated that she would like to see more
balance on the board moving forward, and that although the candidate was
well qualified, in the last three years everyone appointed to the board has had
the same pro-Piazza point of view.
Ms Briere reiterated that she does not understand what someone's position on
the library location has to do with the board appointment now that the location
has been decided. She emphasized that the City is moving forward with the
Cedar River location, and every on the board should be pro-library.
Mayor Law stated that it is his appointment, recommended by the Community
Services Department, and that he would not have declined the
recommendation based on Ms. Palmer's reasoning. He added that if Council as
a whole declines the appointment, he could leave the position open and not
bring a new candidate forward. He stated that he is not aware of any provision
that allows Council to review the candidates and make the appointments.
Senior Assistant City Attorney Barber confirmed Mayor Law's statement.
Council President Zwicker stated that the appointment recommendation was
referred to the Community Services Committee and was not reported out. He
remarked that this leaves the issue open for Council action.
MOVED BY ZWICKER, SECONDED BY BRIERE, COUNCIL CONCUR IN THE
MAYOR'S APPOINTMENT OF LYNNE M. KING TO THE LIBRARY ADVISORY BOARD
FOR AN UNEXPIRED TERM EXPIRING 9/1/2014. (See page 237 for action.)
Acknowledging the awkwardness of this issue and the full capabilities of Ms.
King, Councilmember Corman stated that after 2010 he was aware, although he
was never critical of it publically, that people who applied for the Library
Advisory Board who had been in favor of retaining the independent library
system were passed over in favor of applicants who had favored joining KCLS.
August 13, 2012 Renton City Council Minutes Page 237
He added that he did not know if that was actually true. He stated that not
even one quarter of the voting population approved of the Piazza site and yet
Council is about to add another person to the board who took that position. He
challenged how this could be representative of the community.
Ms. Briere reemphasized that the vote has occurred and the City is moving
forward at the Cedar River location. She stated that she feels strongly that an
incorrect assumption is being made that Library Advisory Board members
cannot lead because they had a position about where it should be located.
Councilmember Prince added that the election has occurred and he believes it
is time to stop talking in "us" and "them" language. He stated that everyone
needs to come back together as a community and work toward the betterment
of the Cedar River Library. He remarked that in his opinion whether someone
supported one side or the other is now moot because of the vote, and
continuing to use this type of language is not going to help the community.
Mr. Corman objected to Mr. Prince's statements. He emphasized that all he
meant was that he believes it would be nice to have a board whose opinions
reflect the opinions of the community. He remarked that if the appointee was
in the audience she could be asked if she was comfortable moving in this
direction.
Councilmember Taylor stated that his initial reaction is to think of the
appointee who is now in this situation. He remarked that he believes there was
an erosion of confidence and trust in Council, and that there are members of
the board who can move forward. He stated that in order to restore public
confidence Council should be appointing members who will advocate for
citizens' best interests.
Mr. Taylor remarked that the public will cannot be ignored, and that Council
should not ignore the idea that some of the board members were passionate
about the Piazza site. He stated that providing balance on the board will
demonstrate the Council is sensitive to the issue, and is willing to find ways to
mend the gaps in trust.
Mr. Corman stated that blame for the controversy could be placed on the
Renton Reporter. He remarked that he has no idea why the newspaper would
have printed an article that said the library issue was not a done deal in spite of
the vote. He remarked that after reading the article he does not think trying to
make sure the Library Advisory Board was balanced is a bad call.
Mr. Prince added that he was in the committee meeting and the appointee did
say that it was time to move on. He also reemphasized that this is a Mayoral
appointment and that the Mayor ultimately decides who is recommended to be
appointed.
Council President Zwicker called for the question.
ROLL CALL: FOUR AYES: ZWICKER, BRIERE, PRINCE, PERSSON. TWO NOES:
TAYLOR, PALMER. ABSTAINED: CORMAN.
•MOTION CARRIED.
August 13, 2012 Renton City Council Minutes Page 238
Transportation (Aviation)
Committee
Transportation: Energy
Conservation Project
Management & Monitoring
Services, WA DES
Transportation: Utility
Cooperation Agreement, NE
3rd/4th Corridor Project, King
County Water District No. 90
Council: Reconsider Motion to
Change Audience Comment
Policy
Transportation (Aviation) Committee Chair Corman presented a report
recommending concurrence in the staff recommendation to approve an
interlocal agreement with the Washington State Department of Enterprise
Services (DES) to allow DES to provide energy conservation project
management and monitoring services to the City through June 30, 2014, as the
City seeks to convert street lamps to LED.
The Committee further recommended that the resolution regarding this matter
be presented for reading and adoption.
MOVED BY CORMAN, SECONDED BY PERSSON, COUNCIL CONCUR IN THE
COMMITTEE REPORT. CARRIED. (See page 239 for resolution.)
Transportation (Aviation) Committee Chair Corman presented a report
recommending concurrence in the staff recommendation to approve a Utilities
Cooperation Agreement with King County Water District No. 90 for the
construction of the district's water lines along with the NE 3rd/4th Corridor
Improvements project.
The Committee further recommended that the resolution regarding the matter
be presented for reading and adoption.
MOVED BY CORMAN, SECONDED BY PERSSON, COUNCIL CONCUR IN THE
COMMITTEE REPORT. CARRIED. (See page 239 for resolution.)
MOVED BY CORMAN, SECONDED BY PALMER, COUNCIL RECONSIDER THE
ACTION TAKEN 8/6/2012 ADOPTING THE POLICY CHANGE FOR AUDIENCE
COMMENT* (See page 239 for action.)
Councilmember Corman stated that members of the public have grown
accustomed to being allowed five minutes at the beginning and end of the
meetings to speak to Council, and remarked that Mr. Keyes' observation that
most of the meetings last around 36 minutes seems accurate. He remarked
that he did not think people would try to communicate a complicated topic if
they were only allowed three minutes. Mr. Corman also acknowledged Mr.
Stuart's point that emailing Council in advance precludes the public from
knowing what Council is receiving.
Mayor Law reminded Council that as a Council policy it could be changed back
at any time.
Ms. Briere stated that she is in favor of the policy change mostly due to the
changes in the second comment period. She explained that the intent was to
try to get citizens to talk about a different topic, and not repeat the exact same
information they brought up during the first comment period.
Mr. Taylor stated that he was moved by Mr. Hassan's comments because
Council should be progressing towards engaging effectively with all of the City's
diverse cultures. He also remarked that some people may be stimulated by
another thought or idea and need that second comment period to express their
new view-point.
Ms. Palmer remarked that she was surprised that the issue had come up
initially because she did not believe there to be a problem. She stated that she
reluctantly agreed to the change, but added that the public obviously does not
agree that it is positive.
August 13, 2012 Renton City Council Minutes Page 239
•MOTION CARRIED.
Utilities Committee
Utilities: 2012 Water System
Plan Update
RESOLUTIONS AND
ORDINANCES
RESOLUTION #4151
Administrative Services:
Intergovernmental
Cooperative Purchasing
Agreement, Yakima County
RESOLUTION #4152
Transportation: Energy
Conservation Project
Management & Monitoring
Services, WA DES
RESOLUTION #4153
Transportation: Utility
Cooperation Agreement, NE
3rd/4th Corridor Project, King
County Water District No. 90
RESOLUTION #4154
Utilities: 2012 Water System
Plan Update
CED: Extending Sunset Clause
for Owner-Occupied and
Rental Housing Incentive
Programs
Senior Assistant City Attorney Barber pointed out that the motion to reconsider
as approved requires that the issue either be referred to a committee or
debated until resolved at tonight's meeting.
MOVED BY BRIERE, SECONDED BY TAYLOR, COUNCIL REFER THE TOPIC OF
POLICY REVISIONS FOR AUDIENCE COMMENT TIME PERIODS TO THE
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE. CARRIED.
Utilities Committee Chair Taylor presented a report recommending
concurrence in the staff recommendation to approve the 2012 Water System
Plan Update and to forward the plan to King County and the Washington State
Department of Health for approval.
The Committee further recommended that the resolution regarding this matter
be presented for reading and adoption.
MOVED BY TAYLOR, SECONDED BY PRINCE, COUNCIL CONCUR IN THE
COMMITTEE REPORT. CARRIED. (See later this page for resolution.)
The following resolutions were presented for reading and adoption:
A resolution was read authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to enter into an
intergovernmental cooperative purchasing agreement with Yakima County.
MOVED BY BRIERE, SECONDED BY PERSSON, COUNCIL ADOPT THE RESOLUTION
AS READ. CARRIED.
A resolution was read authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to enter into an
interlocal agreement with the State of Washington Department of Enterprise
Services entitled "Interagency Agreement No. 2012-ERG-553 Energy
Conservation Project Management Services." MOVED BY PERSSON, SECONDED
BY PALMER, COUNCIL ADOPT THE RESOLUTION AS READ. CARRIED.
A resolution was read authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to enter into a
utilities cooperation agreement with King County Water District No. 90 for the
construction of the district's water main improvements in conjunction with the
NE 3rd/4th Corridor Improvement Project. MOVED BY PERSSON, SECONDED BY
CORMAN, COUNCIL ADOPT THE RESOLUTION AS READ. CARRIED.
A resolution was read adopting the 2012 Water System Plan Update. MOVED
BY TAYLOR, SECONDED BY CORMAN, COUNCIL ADOPT THE RESOLUTION AS
READ. CARRIED.
The following ordinances were presented for first reading and referred to the
8/20/2012 Council meeting for second and final reading:
An ordinance was read amending Section 4-1-210, Waived Fees, of Chapter 1,
Administration and Enforcement, of Title IV (Development Regulations), of City
Code, by extending the waiver of certain development and mitigation fees.
MOVED BY PRINCE, SECONDED BY BRIERE, COUNCIL REFER THE ORDINANCE
FOR SECOND AND FINAL READING ON 8/20/2012. CARRIED.
August 13, 2012 Renton City Council Minutes Page 240
CED: Extending Sunset Clause
for Multi-Family Housing
Property Tax Exemption
Program
NEW BUSINESS
Citizen Comment: McOmber-
Proposed Regulation
Regarding Infill Development
Public Safety: Handicap
Parking & Photo Enforcement
Finance: Electric Vehicle
Charging Stations
Community Event: Sikh
Community Candlelight
Service
AUDIENCE COMMENT
Citizen Comment: Forister -
Library Advisory Board
Appointments
Citizen Comment: Lambert-
Cedar River Library
An ordinance was read amending Section 4-2-220, Property Tax Exemption for
Multi-Family Housing in Residential Targeted Areas, of Chapter 1,
Administration and Enforcement, of Title IV (Development Regulations), of City
Code, by extending the property tax exemption. MOVED BY PRINCE,
SECONDED BY BRIERE, COUNCIL REFER THE ORDINANCE FOR SECOND AND
FINAL READING ON 8/20/2012. CARRIED.
Mayor Law noted for the record that Council President Zwicker left the
meeting. Time: 8:57 p.m.
MOVED BY PRINCE, SECONDED BY PALMER, COUNCIL REFER THE LETTER FROM
HOWARD MCOMBER REGARDING PROPOSED REGULATIONS AFFECTING INFILL
DELEVELOPMENT IN THE HIGHLANDS TO THE ADMINISTRATION FOR A
RESPONSE. CARRIED.
MOVED BY PERSSON, SECONDED BY BRIERE, COUNCIL REFER THE TOPICS OF
HANDICAP PARKING AND PHOTO ENFORCEMENTTO THE PUBLIC SAFETY
COMMITTEE FOR BRIEFINGS. CARRIED.
MOVED BY PERSSON, SECONDED BY BRIERE, COUNCIL REFER THE TOPIC OF
ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATIONS TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE FOR A
BRIEFING. CARRIED.
Councilmember Taylor remarked that he, along with other City Officials,
attended a candlelight memorial service at the Sikh temple to commemorate
the victims of the recent shooting at a temple in Wisconsin. He stated that
there was an outpouring of community support, and the event was attended by
many state and local dignitaries.
Phyllis Forister (Renton) stated that supporters of the Cedar River Library do
not feel that they are fairly represented by members of the Library Advisory
Board because they all supported the move to the Piazza. Mayor Law
cautioned Ms. Forister about speaking about individuals who serve on the
board.
Continuing, Ms. Forister reiterated that the supporters of the Cedar River
Library have no representation on the board. She stated that the City should
either add more members, or revaluate those who currently are serving.
Kal Lambert (King County) stated that the same type of stove-piping that was
characteristic of the administration in the past is occurring again regarding the
Cedar River Library. He emphasized that people have woke-up to this issue and
want to be involved in the process. He remarked that his group would like to
make a presentation in order to show Council important information regarding
design costs and operating expenses. Councilmember Briere asked Mr.
Lambert what specifically he would like to present.
Mr. Lambert remarked that his group has extensively studied KCLS documents
that Council has not seen. He stated that there are very strong grounds to
challenge the engineering and science behind some of the decisions that KCLS is
making. He commented that some of the information is very technical but can
be made understandable through a few spreadsheets and graphs.
August 13, 2012 Renton City Council Minutes Page 241
Councilmember Corman remarked that the purpose of the Library Advisory
Board is to hear these types of presentations and report recommendations to
Council.
Citizen Comment: Keyes - David Keyes (Renton) remarked that the comments in the studies for the library
Cedar River Library are a political tool as opposed to a real study of the physical situation. He
remarked that the library consultants did not conduct a proper feasibility study
because it does not contain information regarding budgeting, comparative
pricing, and their recommendations lead to extremely expensive components
that are simply aesthetic. He also stated that there are a series of
misstatements in the study regarding the state energy code.
Councilmember Briere remarked that a lot of that type of information is outside
the scope of the Council, and must be reviewed by City and KCLS staff who then
make recommendations to Council. She noted that the feasibility study was
done independently.
Mr. Keyes remarked that the information he has can be provided to the Library
Advisory Board as long as it makes its way back to Council. He emphasized that
Council needs to hear the information in order to make informed decisions
regarding the library. He also noted that the KCLS open houses should be
reformatted to allow for better communications with citizens.
Councilmember Taylor also stated that much of the information appears to be
outside the scope of Council and suggested that Mr. Keyes speak to the
administration.
MOVED BY BRIERE, SECONDED BY TAYLOR, COUNCIL REFER THE FACILITATION
OF A MEETING WITH KCLS AND MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC INTERESTED IN THE
CONSTRUCTION OF THE LIBRARY TO THE ADMINISTRATION.*
Mayor Law remarked that the City is not building the library. He also
emphasized that the City is very committed to not spending additional funds.
Councilmember Corman expressed support for the motion, and added that like
any public works projects the public has a right to oversee the activities of the
project. He also added that concerned citizens need to feel that they have a
receptive forum to air their comments and concerns.
*MOTION CARRIED.
Johnjoseph Pajor (Renton) stated that Council missed that the public wants to
be heard on the library issue, and having 100% of the board in favor of the
Piazza location is not representative of the public's will. He remarked that
there are other issues that need to be discussed with KCLS and voters have the
right to know that their interests will be represented. Mr. Pajor also remarked
that KCLS is being investigated for mismanagement.
Beth Asher (Renton) questioned what was happening with the Highlands
Library, and expressed concern that cost overruns will not be blamed on KCLS
but on the fact that citizens wanted the Cedar River Library to be renovated.
She also stated that tonight's ramming of the appointee to the Library Advisory
Board confirms that Council is not listening to residents concerns about the
library.
Citizen Comment: Pajor
Cedar River Library
Citizen Comment: Asher •
Library Advisory Board
Appointments
August 13, 2012 Renton City Council Minutes Page 242
Citizen Comment: Bray-
Audience Comment Policy
Change
Citizen Comment: Ossenkop
Library Advisory Board
Appointment
Citizen Comment: Poitras -
Electric Vehicle Charging
Stations
Citizen Comment: Beedon -
AirSoft Gun Regulations
Citizen Comment: Johnson
Audience Comment Policy
Change
ADJOURNMENT
Richard Bray (Renton) thanked Council for reconsidering the time allotments
for the audience comment periods. He stated that he senses there is a lack of
trust in City leadership, and encouraged Council to work together on the library
issue.
Kathy Ossenkop (Renton) remarked that she is not aware of any person on the
Library Advisory Board who voted for the Cedar River Library. She stated that
the board should be more balanced in order to represent residents who
support the Cedar River Library site.
Bob Poitras (Renton) asked how many electric vehicle charging stations are
located throughout the City, and how they are funded. Mayor Law stated that
most of the installation funds were from grants, and the stations are currently
free to use but there will be a charge for the electricity in the future. Public
Works Administrator Zimmerman added that chargers located at businesses
were installed by those businesses and not by the City.
David Beedon (Renton) asked if the City had an ordinance or other regulations
regarding AirSoft guns and games. Mayor Law stated that the police
department would follow up with Mr. Beedon.
Ben Johnson (Renton) thanked Council for reconsidering the audience
comment policy change. He also suggested that audience comments be limited
to local matters.
MOVED BY PERSSON, SECONDED BY PRINCE, COUNCIL ADJOURN. CARRIED.
Time: 9:42 p.m.
Bonnie I. Walton, CMC, City Clerk
Jason Seth, Recorder
August 13, 2012
RENTON CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE MEETING CALENDAR
Office of the City Clerk
COUNCIL COMMITTEE MEETINGS SCHEDULED AT CITY COUNCIL MEETING
August 13, 2012
COMMITTEE/CHAIRMAN DATE/TIME AGENDA
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
(Zwicker)
MON., 8/20 Mobile Food Vendors;
5:30 p.m. 2013/2014 Human Services General Fund
Funding Recommendations;
2013/2014 Community Development
Block Grant (CDBG) Funding
Recommendations
COMMUNITY SERVICES
(Palmer)
FINANCE
(Briere)
MON., 8/20 Utility Bill Adjustment Request from
4:30 p.m. River's Edge Condominiums;
Maintenance Shops Storage Bays
Conversion;
Vouchers
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
(Prince)
PUBLIC SAFETY
(Persson)
MON., 8/20 CANCELED
TRANSPORTATION (AVIATION)
(Corman)
UTILITIES
(Taylor)
NOTE: Committee of the Whole meetings are held in the Council Chambers unless otherwise noted.
All other committee meetings are held in the Council Conference Room unless otherwise noted.