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HomeMy WebLinkAboutFire Code for Churches (1982) OF I THE CITY OF RENTON U ,i z0 BARBARA Y. SHINPOCH. MAYOR Z ..LL FIRE PREVENTION BUREAU 0 MUNICIPAL BUILDING / 200 MILL AVE. S. / RENTON. WA. 98055 / 235-2642 0 �P FIRE MARSHAL: JIM MATTHEW CHIEF: DICK GEISSLER 4 7.E0 SEP1 eg'O October 20, 1982 Dr. Sam Harvey Calvary Baptist Church 1032 Edmonds Avenue N.E. Renton, Washngton 98056 SUBJECT: PERMIT TO OPERATE A PLACE OF ASSEMBLY Dear Pastor Harvey: This will confirm my conversation with you and the City Attorney of this date. We are very pleased to confirm to you and your congregation that the above mentioned permit which we have asked you to make application, is only intended to be a means of regulation of the City's right to inspect facilties to insure the safety to the public. I'm further pleased to confirm to you, my office will be submitting proposed legislation to the City Council, to change the above mentioned permit to "Inspection Permit." Since this is the only objection of this inspection program, we hope this change of name will serve to forestall additional disputes similar to the objections raised. Of course, no one can give any assurance that the legislation will be inacted. However, I know of no reason to doubt that the City Council will act favorably on your recommendation. Based upon our foregoing assurances required by the nature of this permit and my expressed intent of amending legislation, I understand you will, upon receipt of this letter, make your application for a permit to operate a place of assembly. We further understand that you will be making this application under protest due to the name of the permit, that your application does not prejudice your right to object at any point in the future. I'm very pleased in the spirit of the agreement between you and my office regarding the City's obligation to the inspection of your building and others to insure that unsafe conditions are not violated. rc� coo' OCT25. '` CITY CLERK 4$ Dr. Sam Harvey October 20, 1982 Page Two I hope my office will be able to continue to assist you in this objective. Yours very truly, James F. Matthe Fire Marshal cc: Barbara Y. Shinpoch, Mayor ✓Maxine E. Motor, Acting City Clerk Dan Kellogg, City Attorney Richard Geissler, Fire Chief i s/moo OPINION Local clergyman's stand has validity There's only$10 involved, but it does involve an important principle,that dispute in Renton about whether St. Luke's Episcopal Church should pay a fee "to assemble." The Renton fire marshal,Jim Matthew, says St. Luke's should pay up like any other building that involves people getting together. The Rev. John Schaeffer says the billing is improper because it describes the$10 as for an"assembly permit." We think the church should have to pay the $10 if similiar non-public structures do; but in no way should this be described as an"assembly permit." And,no,it isn't all the same thing. For instance,there also exists in the newspapering busi- ness various rules and regulations and fees and taxes that this newspaper,and all others,are subject to. But no newspaper is required to have a"publishing permit." Under the right of assembly,and the First Amendment right to religious freedom,a church membership should be able to assemble without prior restraint—just as a newspaper is allowed to publish without prior restraint. The clergyman well underscores an important constitu- tional point in objecting to the language of an "assembly permit." Legal precedents can come into being through • common past practice and acceptance by the parties involv- ed.Who is to say that a less benevolent government than Renton City Hall,or its fire marshal's office, might someday seek to up the permit cost to an unreasonable level? To us, the proper test of local civil powers is whether without paying the fee or tax,a congregation,political group, newspaper or the like could go about its business. If failure to pay a$10 fee would clearly stop the assemblage (or the presses), then it is wrong. That's as inept(and as unconstitu- tional)as requiring a$10 fee to read the Bible or to scan . your daily newspaper. In addition to the principle--a principle we hope neither the fire marshal nor anyone else finds less important simply because only$10 is involved—we think there's also a lesson in communications and civics to be gained here. In our opinion,both the clergyman and the fire marshal are decent people,doing their jobs. But if the city and the clergyman had gotten together on a face-to-face basis instead of exchanging a month's worth of correspondence, things might quickly have been ironed out. We hope it's still not too late before both sides wind up paying for an expensive law suit. /. _ ( 21 / Jr Renton City Council 5/17/82 Page 3 Public Hearing - Continued Mary Ryan costs, slow market and necessity to underground utilities Short Plat not included in the original estimate; therefore, the project SP-159-78 is unprofitable. Letter from Public Works Director Houghton reported no objection to the vacation of the plat and no problems with public safety, health and welfare. Houghton noted the vacation of a plat has not come before the City previously; also noted the financial situation for housing development has taken a down turn and lots did not sell . Houghton explained the plat requirements for installation of improvements such as, sidewalks, curbs, gutters, etc. , must be be met in accordance with time limit set by ordinance; and that although bond was posted construction costs have increased. Asst. City Attorney Kellogg explained Council has full authority regarding vacation and assessment of damages and/or benefits. MOVED BY CLYMER, SECOND ROCKHILL, PUBLIC HEARING BE CLOSED. ' Councilman Stredicke inquired re costs, being advised costs have been paid through filing fees. Councilman Reed inquired re previous approval for the vacation and was advised King County requires a resolution from the City authorizing the vacation. MOTION CARRIED.* MOVED BY CLYMER, SECOND MATHEWS, CONCUR IN THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT FOR VACATION OF THE MARY RYAN SHORT PLAT AMD REFER THE MATTER TO THE WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE FOR PROPER RESOLUTION. CARRIED. CONSENT AGENDA The following business matters are adopted by one motion of the Council which follows the items included: Legal Fees Letter from the Parks and Recreation Department and the Finance Parker Property Department requested a fund transfer in the amount of $500 to the Parks Facilities for the Parker property legal fees. Refer to the Ways and Means Committee . (Resolution .H2452 adopted. ) Renton High Letter from Parks and Recreation Supt. Ron Heiret requested School a fund transfer in the amount of $23,000 for development of Athletic Fields the Renton High School Athletic Complex from Community Facility charges to Park Capital Outlay Fund. Refer to Ways and Means Committee for legislation. -;•• Final Payment Letter from the Parks and Recreation Department requested Robert Kincaid Council authorization for final payment, acceptance of completed Construction, Inc. project for the Liberty Park Community Center Renovation. The CAG 044-81 letter also requested that if after 30 days proof of tax liabili- ties is received and all liens or claims have been dismissed, the retained amount of $7, 133.81 be paid the contractor. Council concur. Consent Agenda MOVED BY CLYMER, SECOND ROCKHILL, ADOPT THE CONSENT AGENDA AS SHOWN (PROCLAMATIONS - PAGE 1 ) . Councilman Reed inquired re amount of fund transfer from Community Facilities Fund and was advised those Community Facilities Fees still outstanding will be collected and transferred to Priority No. 1 (Athletic Complex) not to exceed $100,000.`* CARRIED. OLD BUSINESS Committee of the Whole report presented by Council President Fire Code for Clymer recommended the item Fire Codes for Churches be referred Churches to the Administration and that no Council action is required. MOVED BY CLYMER, SECOND TRIMM, CONCUR IN COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE REPORT. CARRIED. Revenue Report The Committee of the Whole recommended authorizing the Adminis- tration to prepare legislation which would allow the City to charge a one-quarter percent real estate excise tax, as authorized by the Legislature, to replace the Community Facilities fees which have been outlawed by the Legislature. MOVED BY CLYMER, SECOND REED, CONCUR IN RECOMMENDATION OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE AND REFER THE MATTER TO THE WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE. CARRIED. Councilman Stredicke noted for the record that the proposed tax is a replacement of a tax which has been discontinued by the Legislature and not new taxation as reported by the newspaper. Renton City Council 5/17/82 Page 4 Old Business - Continued Transportation Transportation Committee Chairman Trimm submitted report Committee recalling agreement made with property owners involved in LID LID #314 #314 to reevaluate the assessments after construction bids were East Valley Rd. received. The report recommended that the property owners be notified of their revised assessments and a public hearing be Public Hearing set for 6/14/82 to review these assessments. The report further 6/14/82 stated that if the Council agrees at the 6/14/82 hearing to proceed with the construction, the committee recommended that the contract be awarded to the low bidder, Cascade Septic Service, Inc. of Tacoma, in the amount of $4,036,581 .39. The report further recommended the Mayor and City Clerk be author- ized to sign the documents. MOVED BY TRIMM, SECOND ROCKHILL, CONCUR IN RECOMMENDATION OF THE TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE AND REFER TO WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE FOR LEGISLATION IF NEEDED. CARRIED. PSCOG Report Councilman Hughes reported on recent Puget Sound Council of Government meeting for presentation of alternate traffic plans to Metro. Hughes informed PSCOG of the heavy traffic congestion on 1-405 at Renton and need for more lanes not only HOV proposed. ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS Ways and Means Ways and Means Committee Chairman Stredicke presented committee Committee report recommending first reading and referral back to committee for the following ordinances: Ordinance An ordinance was read amending the filing of statements and First Reading payments of tax on horse race admissions. MOVED BY STREDICKE, SECOND HUGHES, REFER ORDINANCE BACK TO THE WAYS AND MEANS COM- MITTEE. CARRIED. First Reading An ordinance was read appropriating funds in amount of $73,200 for the Senior Housing Assistance Program. MOVED BY STREDICKE, SECOND HUGHES, REFER ORDINANCE BACK TO WAYS AND MEANS COM- MITTEE FOR ONE WEEK. CARRIED. Street Vacation Committee Chairman Stredicke announced the Street Vacation Policy Ordinance Policy Ordinance is available for study and will be presented next week. Resolution #2452 A resolution was read for the transfer of 5500 from Cumulative Fund Transfer Reserve Fund 1689 to Parker Property. MOVED BY STREDICKE, Parker Property SECOND BY CLYMER. ADOPT THE RESOLUTION AS PRESENTED. CARRIED. ADMINISTRATIVE Mayor Shinpoch introduced Housing and Community Development REPORT Coordinator Ed Hayduk who announced King County Clean Up Day 5/22 and used charts/maps to explain the routes and areas King County planned for cleanup by community organizations: Renton Assembly Clean Up Day of God Church Youth, Boy Sout Troup, Garden Clubs.Two locations 5/22/82 named as Focus Areas: Devil ' s Elbow and Pipeline R/W between Puget Drive and Phillip Arnold Park which had been dumping areas. Hayduk explained the Housing and Community Development Pick up area for the low and moderate income neighborhoods and noted King County to supply free dumping at the refuse collection site. Mayor Shinpoch outlined schedule for the beautification of Metro Park and Ride lot, final plantings to be accomplished in September by the Bothell firm under contract. Mayor Shinpoch announced many employees will be retiring at the end of May and June due to change in retirement laws by the State Legislature, explaining that not all positions will be filled. ADJOURNMENT MOVED BY STREDICKE, SECOND ROCKHILL, MEETING ADJOURN. CARRIED. 9:35 P.M. iddei Delores A. Mead, C.M.C. , City Clerk a COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE COMMITTEE REPORT May 17, 1982 FIRE CODES FOR CHURCHES The Committee of the Whole recommends this item be referred to the Administration and that no Council action is required. REVENUE REPORT The Committee of the Whole recommends authorizing the Administration to prepare legislation which would allow the city to charge a one-quarter percent real estate excise tax, as authorized by the Legislature, to replace the community facilities fees which have been outlawed by the Legislature. • • EarT CTym`er, Council' President Candles cbecome •ou ld hot � nc�t By GREG ANDERSON permitted.Battery-operated simulated candles are City Editor available and may be used." president of the Renton Ecumenical Association of Mass violations Churches. Renton Fire Marshal Jim Matthew said the fire The issue of religious freedom versus personal The Rev.John Schaeffer of Saint Luke's Episcop- code Renton follows also has been adopted by King safety may go deeper than whether a church needs al Church,who is protesting the assembly a permit to assemble. said he hasn't distributed candles among the County. That means churches in unincorporate Another little-known provision in this state's congregation in 15 years.For that reason,he said, King County would be subject to the same uniform fire code is one dealing with the use of he isn't greatly concerned with the provision on requirements. candles. the exception of the $10 fee candles, candles. According to section 25.117 of the 1979 edition of But both Schaeffer and Pastor Maynard Atik of'the ep prohibition again never heard of st hand-held Atik said the uniform fire code, "candles held in persons' agree that many churches violate that provision. and Schaeffer said the custom of hand-held candles hands are especially dangerous and shall not be d candles. He Atik, of Cross and Crown Lutheran Church, is is common during Christmas services. Agreem nt hoped for Many churches also e use hand-held, open-flame candles during processionals and other rituals, they said. "When I was in Colorado, some distraught woman who evidently was ticked off at our congregation brought the same provision to the fire marshal's attention there,"said Atik. "He had to take some action,but he was hoping no one would take it to him.There was a little bit of a stink over that. "But we took it to the city attorney,and he really attempted to work out something that was agree- able.He happened to be.Episcopalian,and they use candles to a fair extent, and ultimately we got it worked out." The pastor said he hoped a similar agreement could be reached in Renton and King County. Matthew said the fire department sends letters to churches each year informing them of the hand- held candle provision. But he conceded the city doesn't really try to enforce the code on candle use. "Candlelight services basically aren't legal," Matthew said."But I know churches have done it. It's an issue I don't like to get involved in or even think about. "I don't want to go in and shut a church down." He said he would have no objection to candle use if it were only children 12 and over who partici- pated. ij//y , • . 1 5 , P ri e st refuses1 ,, . ee or ' permit f way,.- ;„ , .. 3 , ., to assemble ' By GREG ANDERSON a,, a City Editor • ,. A Renton priest is refusing to pay a$10 public assembly fee to the City of Renton because he believes the requirement violates the church's constitutional right to ? freedom of assembly. •' The Rev.John Schaeffer,priest at Saint Luke's Episcopal ,_, Church,99 Wells Ave.S.,takes issue with a provision in the > uniform fire code approved in Renton in 1970. -. .--�' Under that code,permits are required both for assembly ' and for use of candles. "Assembly"is defined in the code as"a gathering of 50 or more persons for such purposes as deliberation,education, °• ;•;, instruction,worship,entertainment,amusement,in drink ing or dining establishments or awaiting transportation." r The use of candles in public assembly places such as a church also is restricted. "Make it clear I'm not protesting the fee,"Rev.Schaeffer said Wednesday. "Money is not the issue. Somebody will . say 'those damn churches don't pay taxes and they are dersite4 14•t1r ! freeloading.' a !i "It's not the money issue I'm concerned about, it's the . '"rA ti l� fire code and the wording that says we need permission to • assemble from a fire department. "It is our constitutional right to assemble." > � _ Renton Fire Marshal Jim Matthew said he is simply enforcing the existing code,and noted that Rev.Schaeffer Ara i and other churches have complied with the code in the past. �' But there does seem to be a difference this year. In the • past,Renton churches weren't required to pay a fee for the assembly or candle permits. But since June 1981,the fees have been required. In the ,/ billing Rev. Schaeffer received this year, a $10 fee is requested following the words "permit to assemble." He • also is being charged a $10 fee for use of candles. Rev.Schaeffer first notified the city of his refusal to pay the fee in a letter sent April 5. A series of correspondence has taken place since then among Rev. Schaeffer, Mayor Barbara Shinpoch and Matthew. Mayor Shinpoch said Wednesday the issue hasn't been resolved because the city's attorneys, Larry Warren and Dan Kellogg, haven't reviewed the code together yet. •: Some city officials seem to be under the mistaken • impression that Rev.Schaeffer is objecting to the$10 fee. Wrote Mayor Shinpoch in a letter to the priest last month, "I can't believe we're on the threshold of a constitutional crisis because of the imposition of a$10 permit fee which cou ld be excised from the applicable ordinance by a simple majority vote of the City Council. "Neither this administration nor the fire department would have any objection to such an amendment." But Rev. Schaeffer said Wednesday,"I told them on the phone that is not the point. My objection is to the . interference.If I sign the form,as I read it,the Renton Fire • - Department has the right to tell us whether we can — assemble. I say they don't have that right." 1 fcandles that require permit Staff photo by JAM BATES (Related story, A2) , Correction Renton Fire Marshal Jim Matthew says he does not condone the use of hand-held candles in church ser- vices regardless of the age of the participant. The Daily Record Chronicle incor- rectly reported Thursday that Matthew said he would have no objection to the use of hand-held, open flame candles in church if • participants were 12 years old or older. The uniform fire code adopted by the City of Renton flatly prohibits the use of such candles in churches because of the fire danger.The code allows battery-operated candles. Matthew said he has seen services in which participants were restrict- ed to 12 years of age or older,but he said his mention of that case doesn't • mean he condones the action. (1,5 `� k ► OF R� � ,?' OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY • RENTON,WASHINGTON 0 U `/ )_ ,1 POST OFFICE BOX 626 100 2nd AVENUE BUILDING • RENTON, WASHINGTON 98055 255-8678 Z MI g 4= 0 LAWRENCE J.WARREN, CITY ATTORNEY DANIEL KELLOGG, ASSISTANT CITY ATTORNEY 4 Pam. DAVID M. DEAN, ASSISTANT CITY ATTORNEY 0,9gTED SEP�G�O� May 11 , 1982 MARK E. BARBER, ASSISTANT CITY ATTORNEY TO: James F. Matthew, Fire Marshall FROM: Daniel Kellogg, Assistant City Attorney RE : Fire Permits for Churches Dear Jim: The President of the City Council has referred the above mentioned subject matter to our office for review prior to the meeting on Thursday, May 13, 1982 . I indicated to him, and to the Mayor at the staff meeting this date, that we would suggest that the Fire Prevention Bureau review its request regarding the issuance of fire permits for churches in the light of our opinion. Our opinion should not be construed in such a way that the Fire Prevention Bureau (or the Building and Zoning Department , for that matter) is intimidated from asserting the provisions of our building and fire codes in circumstances where the public health, safety and welfare are clearly at issue. However, agencies of the City must understand the need for sensitivity toward regulation. of First Amendment protected activities and impose the most minimal restraint and regulation necessary to accomplish the legitimate public interest . The agency must bear in mind that the City has the burden to establish that the regulation is reasonable and necessary. The burden is not on the religious institution to show that the regulation in unreasonable or unnecessary. With that background in mind, and upon review of the correspondence between your office , the Mayor' s office, and Father John Schaeffer of St. Luke' s Episcopal Church, and after review of the provisions of the Fire Code which were attached to your Memorandum to the Mayor dated March 31, 1982 , we are of the opinion that the City may not constitutionally regulate the use of candles in worship services , except to the extent that such use directly endangers the public health and safety. For example , hand held candles with children may be dangerous . To the extent that the religious facilities are used for purposes other than worship and religious instruction, we believe that they must comply with the provisions of our building regulations unless the secular uses are merely incidental to the religious uses . James F. Matthew, Fire Marshall Page 2 May 11 , 1982 We express no opinion about other fire regulations which you may be attempting to enforce against religious institutions other than to reiterate the opinion noted above that the regulations must bear a strong burden of persuasion that is necessary for accomplish- ment for the public safety, health and welfare and will impose the minimum regulations necessary to accomplish those ends . By copy of this letter, we are suggesting that the President of the Council not raise this matter on the agenda of the Committee of the Whole and that the review of the proposed uses be made by your Department in the light of this opinion. Daniel Kellogg DK:nd cc: Mayor City Clerk Earl Clymer Ron Nelson David Clemens 0 rl ') C,/ Renton City Council 4/12/82 Page 3 Correspondence Hunger Letter from Virginia L. Berney, 121 Monterey Pl . NE, reported a Task Force meeting of 31 concerned citizens under the auspices of Renton Ecumenical Association of Churches met to consider alleviating hunger at the lower end of the economic scale. Emergency meals were discussed by representatives of 10 Renton churches at the 3/30/82 meeting. Mayor Shinpoch was invited to attend a second meeting 4/15/82 at the First United Methodist Church. Mayor Shinpoch reported that due to prior commitment she would not be able to attend and asked for Council Member interested in attending. OLD BUSINESS MOVED BY CLYMER, SECOND HUGHES REFER TO COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE Fire Permits for LETTERS REGARDING THE FIRE CODE. REV. JOHN SCHAEFFER, ST. LUKES Church Building ESPISCOPAL CHURCH. CARRIED. Ii Marine Patrol Councilman Rockhill noted memo was received from Administrative Assistant Parness re King County Marine Patrol for Lake Washington and inquired re costs. Mayor Shinpoch called attention to Wednesday meeting and need for Council direction. MOVED BY STREDICKE, SECOND REED, SUBJECT MATTER OF MARINE PATROL BE REFERRED TO THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE. CARRIED. Upon inquiry from Council , Policy Development Director Clemens noted the Planning Commission will be considering revisions to the Comprehensive Plan for downtown, noting post card notification. Councilman Stredicke called attention to sign code violations by placement of real estate signs in public right-of-way on Mill Ave. and Redmond. Utilities Utilities Committee Chairman Mathews left the Council Chanters Committee and took no part in committee report submitted by committee members Vertrees Sewer Trimm and Clyrer concerning request for investigation re sewer Within Northeast hookup on Union Ave. S. for Vertrees. The report recommended con- Moratorium Area currence with the Building Department that the lot is within the sewer moratorium area, therefore, no sewer connection will be allowed. MOVED BY TRIMM, SECOND STREDICKE, COUNCIL CONCUR IN THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE UTILITIES COMMITTEE. CARRIED. MOVED BY REED, SECOND HUGHES, SUSPEND RULES AND ALLOW MR. VERTREES TO SPEAK TO COUNCIL. CARRIED. John C. Vertrees, 1117 SeaTac Office Center, 1800 Pacific Highway S. , expressed disappointment at the adoption of the committee report, being in disagreement and explained Engineering Dept. approval and installation of sewer stub by adjoin- ing property owner, Mr. Carter. Councilman Stredicke noted for the record that the Utilities Committee was to meet with Mr. Vertrees and verified Mr. Vertrees had been notified of meeting. The sewer moratorium was discussed; it was noted the 361 allowed units are either built or building permits issued. ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS Ways and Means The Ways and Means Committee Chairman Stredicke submitted committee Committee report recommending first reading of an ordinance amending the First Reading Subdivision Ordinance and Building Code relating to offsite improve- Subdivision ments and providing for latecomer agreements. The report noted Building Code provision for latecomer agreements on paving was added to proposed Amendment ordinance placed on first reading 4/5/82 and was, therefore, resub- mitted for first reading. Following reading, MOVED BY STREDICKE, SECOND BY ROCKHILL, REFER ORDINANCE BACK TO THE WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE FOR ONE WEEK. CARRIED. Senior Housing The committee recommended first readings for the following ordi- nances: An ordinance was read appropriating funds in the amount of $35,450 for Senior Housing Land Acquisition. Following reading, it was MOVED BY STREDICKE, SECOND HUGHES, REFER ORDINANCE BACK TO THE WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE FOR ONE WEEK. CARRIED. Alley Vacation An ordinance was read providing for vacation of alley located be- tween Burnett Ave. N and Park Ave. N and between N 32nd and N 33rd Streets as petitioned by Davidson (VAC 03-82) . MOVED BY STREDICKE, SECOND HUGHES, REFER ORDINANCE BACK TO COMMITTEE FOR ONE WEEK. CARRIED. y1 Renton City Council 4/12/82 Page 4 Ordinances and Resolutions - Continued First Readings The Ways and Means Committee recommended first reading of an Building Code ordinance providing for amendment to the Building Code relating Penalties to violations and penalties. Following reading, MOVED BY STREDICKE, SECOND ROCKHILL, REFER THE ORDINANCE BACK TO THE COMMITTEE FOR ONE WEEK. CARRIED. Rezone The committee recommended first reading of an ordinance prividing Union Ave. NE for rezone from G to R-1 for Belterra Development Co. ; known as R 004-82. Following reading, MOVED BY STREDICKE, SECOND HUGHES, REFER ORDINANCE BACK TO COMMITTEE FOR ONE WEEK. CARRIED. Rezone An ordinance was read providing for change in zoning classification from G to R-1 located at 2213 Duvall Ave. NE; known as Pederson R 105-81 . MOVED BY STREDICKE, SECOND ROCKHILL, REFER ORDINANCE BACK TO THE WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE FOR ONE WEEK. CARRIED. The Ways and Means Committee recommended first, second and final readings and adoption of the following ordinances: Ordinance #3619 An ordinance was read providing for issuance and sale of $1 ,825,000 Park Bonds General Obligation Park Bonds, 1982 as authorized by the voters at Special Election pursuant to Ordinance 3336, as amended, and repealing Ordinance No. 3613. MOVED BY STREDICKE, SECOND HUGHES, SUSPEND RULES AND ADVANCE TO SECOND AND FINAL READINGS. CARRIED. Following second and final reading, it was MOVED BY STREDICKE, SECOND ROCKHILL, ADOPT THE ORDINANCE AS PRESENTED. Councilman Stredicke inquired for the record re action by Legislature changing requirements on percentage of interest rates, being advised affirma- tively by Mayor Shinpoch, Bill No. 4728. ROLL CALL: ALL AYES. CARRIED. Ordinance #3620 An ordinance was read providing for issuance and sale of Limited City Shop Bonds Tax General Obligation City Shop Bonds in amount of $2,300,000. MOVED BY STREDICKE, SECOND HUGHES, SUSPEND RULES AND ADVANCE TO SECOND AND FINAL READINGS. CARRIED. Following final reading, it was MOVED BY STREDICKE, SECOND HUGHES, ADOPT THE ORDINANCE AS PRESENTED. Upon inquiry Acting Finance Director advised bid open- ing date of 5/3/82. ROLL CALL: ALL AYES. CARRIED. The committee recommended reading and adoption of the following resolutions: Resolution #2442 Amendment to A resolution was read amending the Six-Year Transportation Improve- Six-Year ment Program and the City' s Arterial Street Plan as approved at Transportation public hearing to include access to new City Shop and County Court. Improvement MOVED BY STREDICKE, SECOND HUGHES, ADOPT THE RESOLUTION AS READ. CARRIED. Resolution #2443 A resolution was read providing "Just Compensation" for Parcel Just Compensation A-1 of the Senior Housing and Pedestrian Corridor, establishing fair market value of the parced $35,450. MOVED BY STREDICKE, SECOND REED, ADOPT THE RESOLUTION'AS PRESENTED. CARRIED. Resolution #2444 A resolution was read transferring $1 ,000 concerning acquisition Fund Transfer of the Thomas property for Cedar River Trail . MOVED BY STREDICKE, SECOND MATHEWS, ADOPT THE RESOLUTION AS PRESENTED. CARRIED. Appointment The Ways and Means Committee recommended council concur in the Board of Ethics Mayor' s appointment of Ray Peretti to the Board of Ethics; succeed- ing James Medzegian; four-year term effective to 12/31/85. Mr. Peretti represents the Renton Chamber of Commerce. MOVED BY STREDICKE, SECOND CLYMER, COUNCIL CONCUR IN APPOINTMENT TO THE BOARD OF ETHICS. CARRIED. Voucher Approval The committee recommended Council approval for payment of Vouchers No. 38963 through 39262 in the amount of $462,594.38 having received departmental certification. Also included: LID #314 Revenue Warrant R-14 in amount of $61 .88; LID #321 Revenue Warrant R-4 in amount of $19,079.92. MOVED BY STREDICKE, SECOND HUGHES, CONCUR IN REPORT. CARRIED. (Machine Voids: #38952-38962. ) OF R4,4 ATHEo CITY OF RENTON ``.., R'►r-z�'' 7 MUNICJPAL BUILDING 200 MILL AVE. SO. RENTON,WASH. 98055 e-11 rn BARBARA Y. SHINPOCH, MAYOR 09gTeD SEPI E�OP R E C E I V C V APR 7 1982 MEMORANDUM CO Of RENTON CftY COUNCIL TO: All Councilmembers DATE : April 7, 1982 FROM: Mayor Shinpoch Dear Councilmembers : Enclosed , in chronological order, is all correspondence pertaining to an issue which may require Council action. Bzirbara Y. Shinpoch, Mayor 13YS:hh Attachments CIF R A,A. „� . ` o THE CITY OF RENTON C �.,) � ? MUNICIPAL BUILDING 200 MILL AVE. SO. RENTON, WASH. 98055 n S BARBARA Y. SHINPOCH, MAYOR 235-2580 OVA ! t � �. 0,9it�0 SEPSEO April 7, 1982 IllrFather John Schaeffer Saint Luke's Episcopal Church 99 Wells Avenue South Renton, Washington 98055 • Door ['after John: I can' t believe we' re on the thresholi of a Constitutional crisis because of the imposition of a $10 permit fee which could be excised from the applicable ordinance by a simple majority vote of the City Council . Neither this Administration nor the Fire Department would have any objection to such an amendment. It is not a revenue producer. The amount does not begin to cover the cost of inspections. You have not nor will you ever ba required to apply to the Fire Prevention Bureau for a "permit to carry on worship services." This City is painfully, expensively aware of the Bill of Rights, and we are individually and collec- tively sworn to uphold the Constitution. You are required to meet certain specific safety regulations as defined in the Uniform Fire Code and to allow inspections by qualified members of the Fire Department to assure there a: e no inadvertent or unintentional violations which could endanger life or property -- your own or adjacent structures. The enclosed material from the Fire Marshal 's office gives the pertinent code references. You Lake exception to Battalion Chief Matthew's observation that some churches lease their facilities for other than church use and cite loss of tax exempt status as the penalty for such ac:ivicy. I am not familiar with the eligibility requirements for maintaining a tax exempt posture nor do I have data that supports or refutes the contention that some local churches currently engage in activity which could be described as open to the general public for social occasions, but I do have fond personal memories of participating in a local political organization which rented St. Luke' s basement for regularly scheduled meetings. We wore (rightfully) denied continued occupancy because an ill-mannered club member disposed of a cigar on the floor. Further, for several seasons I attended the fund-raising bridge tournaments at St:. Luke's. We who smoked were gracious enough to use ashtrays. FaIher John Schaeffer April 7, 1982 Page 2 Surely you agree that the Fire Department could have a legitimate interest in such activities that in no fair way could be construed as interfering with the absolute right of any church to conduct religious services. As Mayor, my lawful duty is to provide for the "health, safety and welfare" of the citizens of this city. One of the most obvious expectations the people have is a responsive Fire Department. No city can fund a force large enough in personnel or equipment nor is the technology sufficiently advanced to guarantee that once a fire gets a head start a given structure can be saved. What we can do is approach the problem from this prevention level through enforcement of the Building and Fire Codes, continued safety inspections, and public education. Since our records indicate and your letter reiterates St. Luke's willing compliance over the past years, I can only conclide that the $10 yearlyfee instituted in June of 1981) has precipitated (which was I p your reaction. Since Ihc, sum is negligible, I must assume the principle offends you. This is easily rectified. Your letter, my response, and the Fire Marshal 's correspondence will be forwarded to the City Council for consideration. Sincerely, incerely, BarL).rra Y. Sh i npoch Mayor BYS:hh Attachments cc: City Council Fire Chief Geissler Battalion Chief Matthew .. - ,.,Hi( I.uI•.t•'s I.ri',c:op, . -hurch 09 Wells Avenue S., f ton, Washington 06055 r RECE ` ED L "'1?, , ' S fAP�Z 6li1' ' )) CITY OF RENT T ON l .f MAYOR'S OFFICF ,1I. , +:.: 5 April 1982 To: Mayor. Barbara Shinpich From: Father John Schaeffer Re: Permits for. churches Dear Barbara: I am writing to inform you that I will not, as a matter of conscience and as an act of protest, apply to the Fire Prevention Bureau for a permit to carry on worship services at St. Luke's Church. That right is guaranteed by the United States Constitution. We have no intention of violating safety requirements of the Uniform Fire Code and our facilities are now and always have been open to inspection by the Fire Prevention Bureau. Any violations noted by past inspections have always been corrected to the satis- faction of the Fire Prevention Bureau. The statement by Fire Marshall Jim Matthew, "It should be noted that most churches, as we know them today, are in the business of leasing or renting their facilities for other than church use" is patently incorrect in that any church so doing loses its tax exempt status. Sincerely, Fa her John Schaeff 1# ,t,2,,s..."-N ,,...A,....SA ,t,4. cc: Fire Marshall James Matth v ,I 1 • OF k� •fir� THE (CITY OF RENTON A. U ;• O BARBARA Y. SHINPOCH, MAYOR .', FIRE PREVENTION BUREAU 09 MUNICIPAL BUILDIN,'s o 200 MILL AVE. S. RENTON, WA. 98055 a 235-2642 cer 0 9�TF0 SEPV°�O�Q FIRE MARSHAL: JIM MATTHEW CHIEF: DICK GEISSLER March 31, 1982 RE.CLI V ED TO: MAYOR BARBARA Y. SHINPOCH 51,(...;AARFROM: JAMLS F. MATTHEW, FIRE MARSHAL 31 1982 CITY OF RENTON RE: PERMITS FOR CHURCHES MAYOR'S OFFICE This is in answer to your memorandum of March 29, 1982. The Fire Pre- vention Bureau has been contr. lling places of public assembly and the use of candles in regard to churches, since the adoption of the Uniform Fire Code, in 1970. It has only been since June of 1981, that the City has instituted a fee in connection with the permits. The fee for each permit issued is $10.00 per year. The requirement for these permits are found in Section 4.101, of the code. Assembly is defined in Section 9.102, of the code as "a gathering of 50 or more persons for such purposes of deliberation, education, instruction, worship, entertainment, amusement, in drinking or dining establishments or awaiting transportation". Section 4.101 also requires permits for the use of candles in places of public assembly and refers to Section 25.116 and 25.117 of the code for detailed requirements regarding their. use. Section 25.117 (b) , entitled "Candles Used in Connection with Religious or Ritual- istic Ceremonies", specifically outlines the ways in which candles may be used or displayed. I have included this section for your review. I believe the reason this section has been adopted, is based upon past performances of fires occurring from the lack of controls and restrictions. It would be to the discretion of the City Council as to whether a fee should accompany the permits requirar', of churches. If this was not enforced, the present ordinance would have to be amended to exempt them. It should be noted that most churches, as we know them today, are in the business of lea- sing or renting their facilities for other than church use. We find this common with public schools, also. 'caking this into consideration, how do we enforce the requirements established by the code, when such activities are other than church related. The church may view this as an infringement of the First Amendment under the U.S. Constitution, however, I do not agree. They have the right to Nage Two Permits for Churches March 31, 1982 assembly, however, they also have the responsibility to do it safely within the laws established. In recent years we have seen many new sects claiming rights granted under the law. No longer are there just the traditional churches as we know them. It is my understanding that several established groups have grown and now claim this status. I would assume the questionnaire mentioned in your memorandum, is in fact, our standard application form. If there is a problem with it, we would be more than happy to review it and make changes where necessary. I have included a copy of it for your review. In summary, I have checked our files on St. Lukes Episcopal, 99 Wells South, and have found the two permits in question have been obtained by the church since 1975, without any concerns ioiced. The question seems to be then, the permit fee. I am open to any suggestions you or the City Council might have in regards to this matter. However, I would hasten to add that we have had several churches submit their fee and have acquired their 1982 permits. I would assume that any changes would be accompanied with required adjustments. 7 JAMES F.'MATTHE Fire Marshal JPM:mbt Enclosure cc: Councilman Rockhill Chief Geissler BENTON FIRE DEPARTMENT PERMIT APPLICATION NAME ADDR. PHONE LOCATION FOR WHICH PERMIT APPLICATION IS MADE BUS. NAME ADDR. PHONE IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE TERMS OF THE UNIFORM FIRE CODE,APPLICATION IS BEING MADE FOR PERMIT TO: (CHECK THOSE AREAS APPROPRIATE) CONDUCT PROCESSES ( COMPLETE SECTION 1, 3) CARRY ON OPERATIONS ( COMPLETE SECTION 1, 2, 3) STORE ( COMPLETE SECTION 1, 3, 4) INSTALL EQUIPMENT ( COMPLETE SECTION 1, 3, 4) SECTION 1. DESCRIBE BRIEFLY WHAT IS TO BE DONE AND STATE WHAT MATERIALS ARE TO BE USED. SECTION 2. PUBLIC ASSEMBLY OCCUPANT LOAD (IF UNKNOWN, A SURVEY OR SEATING PLAN MAY BE REQUIRED) SECTION 3. FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS, EXPLOSIVE, GASES, HAZARDOUS MATERIALS AND HIGH PILED COMBUSTIBLE STOCK. METHOD OF STORAGE QUANTITY SIZE/TYPE/CONTAINERS PRODUCT LOCATION (INCLUDE HEIGHT OF STORAGE PALLET/RACK) SECTION 4. INSTALLATION OF EQUIPMENT (ATTACH SPECIFICATIONS FOR APPROVAL) DESCRIBE BRIEFLY THE EQUIPMENT AND ITS PURPOSE (A PLAN OF THE INSTALLATION MAY BE REQUIRED) PLEASE RETURN APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL TO: RENTON FIRE PREVENTION BUREAU 200 MILL AVENUE SOUTH RENTON, WASHINGTON 98055 DATE SIGNATURE OF APPLICANT (DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE) COMMENTS FIRE DEPT. APPROVAL DATE • .7. , ., ;,..ffrle r ', Jf 'r 1,•,4 • w..;Y•.h`; _ .. ,il t, Y 'y ,' 0 Y. 7 , cvrf'. err .f. , r t +' Y i,,. 4'., h RY `#r 3 !lr'' , ^e f 4 r ' .•, ,,,, , e f itil! WI ��r 4,�fi{4 ?/+ , J't Vi+IMI ,RJ+.. t`it Nl• � '�1 1` ri y + , ' r '.I 'a ��r d �� R Y+l�t�,t,r JK r e`q"�V,F "+1+i4A fr 7v+�,;r++u � �,'�W� 4� h+'�1� 1 r,) � ` % � `!�+i +�,� y"� .JC*4414.,, .:'+r,0, •1.4.,:::F.,�r�xi .4,P,. ,..,K; 'f 11 •' ,e{bYt4. 0tc n♦ ll �,pr ,11iK } 11* 1979 EDITION 4.101 w ' ;1 ARTICLE 4 . ' PERMITS AN CERTIFICATES V. 007.' '4 ' Permit Required • 1,/Y..t0144(O ,', Sec. 4.101. It shall be unlawful for anyli,^ ri,„10.,.person, firm or corporation to y ,,,�use a building or premises or engage in any activities for which a permit is µ ' required by this code without first havin obtained such ermit. Permits '.4'rf ,,., arc required from the bureau of fire prevention: ,' '!K ., `�'+ Aircraft Repair Hangar. To use any structure as an aircraft hangar for ;.log' the purpose of servicing or repairing aircraft See Section 24.102. i�v -�, '` " Aircraft Refueling Vehicles. For ce•tificates required for persons rye. ' � operating refueling units.See Sectio'.i 24.;04. `' '. Automobile Wrecking Yard. To operate an automobile wrecking yard. It• '4,'" 'S} See Article 34. . '' . Bonfires or Rubbish Fires. To kindle or authorize the kindling or + ,gin 1A:1i)6,e maintenance of bonfires or rubbish fires.See Section 11.101. "�f'3' litr.0 Bowling Pin or Alley Refinishing.To conduct a bowling pin refinishing ',.oi i. ',or bowling alley resurfacing operation involving the use and application of "°" ` eli/eflammable liquids or materials.Se Article 26. ., r '' f.44 f4:e; Burning in Public Place. To ign,:.e or burn waste material on publicly vAi.414,i,?4' i, t . .`owned or controlled land, bridge, street or other public place which has i ', ' ' not been set aside by � �r r'M public authority for such purpose.See Section 1 1.1 13. rk "tr)�>;' Candles and Open Flames in Assembly Areas. To use open flame or i:). -A., 4x.:� candles in connection with assembly zreas or restaurants' dining or drink- , p�1,'�,r:. ing establishments.For definition of Assembly,see Section 9.103. See Sec- 4'v '8' a . lions 25.116 and 25.117 for open flame and candles. i 014el,,f'• C4 Cellulose Nitrate Storage. To star:or handle more than 25 pounds of e4'r .,� cellulose nitrate plastic (pyroxylin) for the manufacturing or assembly of .T k ,;•''articles or parts of articles containing cellulose nitrate plastics(pyroxylin). t`ef '`�,' ,y See Article 27. Combustible Fiber Storage. To store or handle combustible fibers in i`�^'- � '''c S„�, , quantities in excess of 100 cubic feet.See Article 28. �` •1�E'�� Compressed Gases, '" ' , P Flammable.To store, handle or use at normal tern- ��+ +�, perature and pressures more than 2000 cubic feet of flammable compressed '���' � gas or 6000 cubic feet of nonflammable compressed gas.See Article 74. '4r'• ..,ii oh. Cryogens. Except where federal or state regulations apply and except t{ 1D4 for fuel systems of the vehicle,permits are required to:(See Article 75.) ',•eel': A.Produce,store or sell cryogenic fluids. 4),', rv, B. Store or transport nonflammable,nontoxic cyogens in excess of 500 1 ' , '?� gallons. = dRf.�.. C. Store or use more than 10 gallons of liquefied oxygen, flammable f '; cryogenic fluids or cryogenic oxidizers. I 'S, `r 4¢' r it ,'§ •!•i'.•. 39 ' r i,•i e lit. k i,,4404 ikQ Y ,( �,..1, -, • , r -YI7,ai0; '} '�S•4, Ii" /•yil t ' 1979 EDITION 4.101 i!'iq _�' +4 r,kii l ,,,,4 ,�, Where a single container or the aggregate capacity of interconnected con- 4,, ?;;�„ +i.1)1,.i�+i1,..'''i, j p r, y r i pa.,r' ,.''4 miners is over 1200 gallons water capacity, the installer shall submit plans S il; �,�5 i it , ,;44 1 , i' for such permits.See Article 82. , ,i'0,�.4,,,,•,�, '1,', "; Lumber Yards."I o store lumber in excess of 100,000 board feet. See Ar +,;,.„1.,,1t; ,,s.'0,14 4; *..'' gal y tick 30. drai, Q• ,ilk Matches.To manufacture matches or to store matches ex seeding an ag- �'®,'-. ,.4 t I,', ', ,��',. gregate 60 matchman's gross(14,400 each gross).Se:Article 83. y� l Ott Y t" ' •I, t:'s Magnesium Working. To melt, cast, heat treat or grind more than 10 ,t,V,• ;r+$ ,tigr� • pounds of magnesium per working day.See Article 48. �A?,9yy't v rx;t '4' Nitrate Film. To store, handle, use or display nitrate film. See Article ! 1;n"�l 4 f'. t» '' St, 33. c .4,', s :'16,,'.6'f. VOpen Flame Devices in Marinas.See Section 11.412. ,, ! ;.,',�,. 1,A. To use open flame devices for maintenance or repair of boats, slips „t?p,'., r ;+.C,i,• or wharfs. r"«r , '' r +t., B. To use a portable barbecue, brazier or cooking device on any boat, t � t, � ,�, slip or wharf. . , ,. : Oil Wells. To drill, own, operate or maintain an oil well. Each oil well �'d°4r+,'��" }ir. permit shall be valid for the calendar year for which it is issued. See Sec- �' '' '�'; . i 1 lion 79.1001. '•.r ; ,• t.,�,�. , Organic Coatings. To manufacture more than one gallon of organic , �'ga�AA,'y%yti�} ,i coatings in a working day.See Article 50. d•'. tx•{1 ,t I•`Jrr�., Open Burning.See Bonfires. f;.+ "�.v. .;'? Ovens, Industrial Baking or Drying.To operate an industrial baking or ,', .4. drying oven regulated by this code.See Article 62. i ��• ,'+ Places of Assembly. To operate a place of assembly as defined in Arti- !;: i" tit, 4 • ,}�;1��� cle 9. 14, , ')f JK• Radium. To store or handle at any installation more than 1 microcurie ' 's, +' iPt ''t,' of radium not contained in a field source or mor: than I millicurie of , v' r radium or other radioactive material in a sealed souse or sources, or any ',p 4a ' ,►r;,' r'�i. k; r' amount uI' radioactive material for which a specific license from the a'i4�, �(• .N",p 'It' United States Atomic EnergyCommission is required.See Article 80. '4+ ' t ?Y': r q � �a 'i' r�. •;,,. ,,,p Refrigeration Equipment.To operate a refrigeration unit or system con- LL1 i,.,',' (:'y'.4."' n 4. : taining more than 20 pounds of refrigerant other than air or water. See Ps, Vo kd'f ' '! It >N .; i� ' Article 63. N n.�;, Spraying or Dipping.To operate a spraying or dipping en.erprise utiliz- �}�' is ; „FAQ., in flan unable liquids included within the scope of Article 45. See Section , 45.101. t' ,.i r • j,j r) Tank Vehicles.To operate a tank vehicle for the transportation of flam- 1`''' + 1 �4�'�'1'1�AttA mablc or combustible liquids.See Article 79,Division XI. , y ?,�� ).sp,41.,, lie,: r '1",,tin Tents and Air-supported Structures. To erect or operate a tent or air- to , 'r''1 .'1Xrj��j;a k c inAr it'iY.:::!I supported structure covering an area in excess of 200 square feet unless ++s � ,,�.,,.�„;i such structures are not used exclusively for camping.See Article 32. tt• , '1 .1�41,-,Y 'i.�• 41 .. f4.. z,• 'i Ai' • ',.;,ri •, i ixry i,,' • S r f • i • iy�:R,,r+ !l J lfityl d .� Y% r�1r^li �!!��I `,��� 1 I' ' �qi .7! tTS l y lA :} ..OI'11 ,,�',fY,klIl r• b 1979 EDITION +, 9.103.9.104A,)17;`h'.; ilC1)1 APARTMENT HOUSE is anybuilding, or kill � t, g, portion thereof, which is <1, it • designed, built, rented, leased, let or hired out :o be occupied, or which is 'n • ?. occupied, as the home or residence of three or more families living in- > p d ` 'sty dependently of each other and doing th:ir ov,n cooking in the said building }> ‘el, 'and shall include flats and apartment:.. t % APPROVED refers to approval by tie chief as the result of investi a- r4 tion and tests conducted by him or by reason of accepted principles or tests sll+- t,a'. by national authorities,technical or scientific organizations. .I't Y'''. AREA shall mean a particular extent of surface.(Also see Floor Area.) 'i}p'� ;, 1. ASSEMBLY is the gathering together of 50 or more persons for such k` 4` ,: ;, purposes as deliberation, education, instruct on. worship, entertainment, ,,, '' ' • amusement, in drinking or dining est.•lishmentr, or awaiting transporta- hVj lion. ��'' � AUTOMATIC FIRE ALARM SYSTEM is a system which automati- T 4, tally detects a fire condition and actuates a fire alarm signal device. �`?+ ., II AUTOMATIC FIRE CHECK is a device listed for installation in corn- = Otr' v'i �' municating piping carrying an explosive vapor/air mixture to prevent a ,Q ,i t� flashback from reaching the underground tanks or equipment in the pip- �I�'' ;",'�iY;a• l, ing system. These devices shall be equipped with special elements for ar- ' '°' 'r,x resting the explosion wave which may oe already established in a pipe. t;4 � 'These devices shall contain an automaticallyoperatedveto stop flow of vapor/air mixture in event ofa flashback andcontinued •,a Irit 1 burning at the arrester element. The shutoff valve shall be capable of arf ,')ii manual reset. �?t,, ,,;,r„ AUTOMATIC FIRE-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM is an approved „ rL,�ti system of devices and equipment which automatically detects a fire and '? • 46,', ",discharges an approved fire-extin uishe 4•!.:, 7 y; fire. g nIr ages t onto or in the area of a ? �'i a i AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE STATION is that portion of a property = • ' y!where flammable or combustible liquids are used and dispensed from •• t;�. fixed equipment into the fuel tanks of motor vechicles, ', 1. ;/4 B 01/4 Sec. 9.104. BALCONY, EXTERIOR EXIT, is a landingor porch re- r> ,`1. '. .1yn 1,rr '�,: jetting from the wall of a building and which serves as a required means of >' tT �r egress. The longside shall be at least 50 o rcent open, t r and the open area above the guardrail shall be so distributes as to prevent the accumulation `> nib , of smoke or toxic gases. '` BARREL shall mean a volume of 42 U.S.'gallons. M'4y4,4 BELOWGROUND CONTAINER is a storage installation in which the ,.w fop maximum liquid level in the container is below the surrounding ,�"+�, grade or ti4)°. ' ,''i.,! below a backfill berm, which is at least 10 feet wide at the top and then 'r 1;0 slopes away from the container at a natural angle of repose or is retz.ined �,: . y' 10 feet from the container by a retaining wall and constructed of earth, re . 'a concrete,solid masonry or suitable material designed to prevent the escape : ,'';' of liquid. • if� 1;4L „' 45 l .,a(y`1�Al 25.114-25.117 UNIFORM FIRE CODE Open Flame Sec. 25.114. No percon shall cause or permit any open flame to be used in place of pub;:;,assemblage, or drinking or eating establishment, except when used in conjunction with approved heating or cooking appliances or under written permit of the chief. Standby Firemen Sec.25.115. Whenever, in the opinion of the chief, it is essential for public safety in any place of public assembly or any other place where peo- ple congregate, due to the number of per;ans, or the nature of the per- formance, exhibition, display, contest or activity, the owner, agent or lessee shall employ one or more experienced firemen, as required and ap- proved by the chief, to be on duty at such place. Said firemen shall be sub- ject to the chief's orders at all times when so employed and shall be in uniform and remain on duty during the times such places arc open to the public,or when such activity is being conducted. Before each performance or the start of such activity, said firemen shall inspect the required fire ap- pliances provided to see that they are in proper place and in good working order, and shall keep diligent watch for fires during the time such place is open to the publi,; or such activity is being conducted and take prompt measures for extinguishment of fires that may occur. Firemen shall nor be required or permitted, while on duty, to perform any other duties than those herein specified. Use of Candles and Open Flames,Permits Sec. 25.116. (a) For permits to use candles or open flames in assembly areas,see Section 4.101. (b)A person shaft not use or allow to be used any open flame, burning mndle or candles :n any building or place in such a manner as to create a lire or life hazard. Detailed Requirements for Use of Candles Sec. 25.117. The following detailed requirements will be used for guid- ance in the issuance of permits for candles. (a)Candle Holders—Basic Requirements: 1. The diamete: of the base must be at least one-half the height of the candle or candle holder. 2. The base must support the light or lamp on the entire perimeter.The use of legs is not permitted unless the lamp is stable. 3. The flame must be completely enclosed. Any opening for air supply must not be more than Y.of an inch in diameter. 4. Any shade must be securely attached to the lamp. 5. Any shade must be of fire-resistive materials. 6. The candle holder must be securely attached to the base. 7. The candle must be secured in the holder so that it will not easily separate from the holder if dropped. 104 1979 EDITION 25.1'7-25.203 8. The candle must be located in the holder so that there is a minimum of 2 inches between the top of the flame and any combustible material that might be placed on top of the holder. 9. All materials,except the candle itself,shall be noncombustible. 10. A model must be submitted to the chief and approved by make and • model number prior to use. (b) Candles Used in Connectie n with Religious or Ritualistic Ceremonies. 1• Candles used in churches, lodge halls and similar places shall be limited to areas out of the reach or way of the occupants using the area. 2. Candelabra with lighted candles shall be securely fastened in place so that they cannot tip over. They shall be located away from oc- cupants using area and away from possible contact of drapes, cur- • tains or other combustibles. 3. Candelabra shall be high enough that clothing cannot come in contact with flame. 4. Candles held in persons' hands are especially dangerous and shall not be permitted. Battery-operated simulated candles are available • and may be used. No permit is required for battery-operated candles or other electric candles. Division II REVIEWING STANDS, GRANDSTANDS AND BLEACHERS Scope sec. 25.201. The provisions of this 41i, ision apply to reviewing stands, i$.Inistands and bleachers. (See Division III for folding and telecoping u,Iting•) ) Definitions ties. 25.202. For the purpose of this division, the definitions of 111 LACHERS; DISPERSAL AREA, SAFE; FOOTBOARDS; GRAND- 1 ti'1 ANDS; OPEN-AIR GRANDSTANDS AND BLEACHERS; PERMA- • NI'NT STANDS; REVIEWING STAVES; at.d TEMPORARY SEAT- lti(;FACILITIES are as set forth in Artiele 9. t. Height of Grandstands and Bleachers tire.25.203.Grandstands or bleachers employing combustible members ( 'II the structural frame shall be limited to II rows or 9 feet in height. Seat I ►",Itd,, toeboards, bearing or base pads and footboards may be of corn- r. '�iltlhle materials. 105 II O l' THE CITY OF RENTON L MUNICIPAL BUILDING 200 MILL AVE. SO. RENTON, WASH. 90055 BARBARA Y. SHINPOCH, MAYOR 0,9gTCO SEP °° MEMORANDUM TO: Fire Marshall James Matthew DATE: March 29, 1982 FROM: Mayor Shinpoch Dear Jim: Councilman Rockhill brought to my attention an inquiry from Father John Schaeffer concerning permits required for altar candles and a questionnaire designed to identify a business. Randy and I presume there is a specific fire code being enforced and we are in accord that churches are no more exempt from safety provisions than any other establishment , h;;t•iever, we also agree that the city could be made to appear foolish if someone chose to make an issue of our need to know what kind of business is being conducted at St. Lukes and why we are assessing fees for candles. We've only been exposed to one part of the story and need to be aware of the particulars in this situation to be prepared for the public relations problems that could accrue. Barbara Y. Shinpoch, Mayor BYS:bd cc: Councilman Rockhill J