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HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-03-04 RENTON CITY COUNCIL Regular Meeting May 3, 2004 Council Chambers Monday, 7:30 p.m. M I N U T E S Renton City Hall CALL TO ORDER Mayor Kathy Keolker-Wheeler led the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag and called the meeting of the Renton City Council to order. ROLL CALL OF COUNCILMEMBERS DON PERSSON, Council President; RANDY CORMAN; TONI NELSON; DAN CLAWSON; DENIS LAW; TERRI BRIERE; MARCIE PALMER. CITY STAFF IN ATTENDANCE KATHY KEOLKER-WHEELER, Mayor; JAY COVINGTON, Chief Administrative Officer; ZANETTA FONTES, Assistant City Attorney; BONNIE WALTON, City Clerk; GREGG ZIMMERMAN, Planning/Building/Public Works Administrator; ALEX PIETSCH, Economic Development Administrator; DON ERICKSON, Senior Planner; DENNIS CULP, Community Services Administrator; DEREK TODD, Assistant to the CAO; COMMANDER FLOYD ELDRIDGE, Police Department. PROCLAMATION Mental Health Month - May, 2004 A proclamation by Mayor Keolker-Wheeler was read declaring the month of May, 2004, to be "Mental Health Month" in the City of Renton, calling upon all Renton citizens, government agencies, public and private institutions, businesses, and schools to recommit the community to increasing awareness and understanding of mental health and the need for appropriate and accessible services for all people with mental illnesses. MOVED BY CLAWSON, SECONDED BY PERSSON, COUNCIL CONCUR IN THE PROCLAMATION AS READ. CARRIED. Chief Operations Officer Ted Schwarz with Valley Cities Counseling & Consultation accepted the proclamation with appreciation. Added Medical Assistants' Day - May 20, 2004 A proclamation by Mayor Keolker-Wheeler was read declaring May 20, 2004, to be "Medical Assistants' Day" in the City of Renton, encouraging all citizens to thank the many dedicated medical assistants for their outstanding contribution to this community. Mayor Keolker-Wheeler noted that the medical assistants' group is holding their conference in Renton. PUBLIC MEETING Annexation: Maplewood East, SE 136th St & 156th Ave SE This being the date set and proper notices having been posted and published in accordance with local and State laws, Mayor Keolker-Wheeler opened the public meeting to consider the 10% Notice of Intent petition for the proposed Maplewood East Annexation, consisting of 26.14 acres located immediately east of the Maplewood Estates subdivision, bounded by SE 134th St., if extended, on the north, 156th Ave. SE on the east, 152nd Ave. SE, if extended on the west, and SE 136th St. on the south. Senior Planner Don Erickson explained that the site is within the East Renton Plateau Potential Annexation Area and currently contains eight single-family dwellings. The site hosts a slope that drops 97 feet from the northeast corner to the southeast corner, and no environmental constraints have been identified. Reviewing the public services, he noted the site is served by Fire District #25, Water District #90, Renton sewer, and the Renton School District. The existing King County zoning is R-4; and Renton's Comprehensive Plan designates the area as Residential Low Density for which R-4 (four dwelling units per net acre) zoning is proposed. Mr. Erickson stated that the fiscal impact analysis indicates a surplus of $6,515 May 3, 2004 Renton City Council Minutes Page 137 at full development. He concluded that the proposed annexation is consistent with Renton policies and Boundary Review Board criteria. He noted some potential flooding in the area, suggesting mitigation with future development; and except for parks, no major service issues have been identified. Public comment was invited. Ronda Bryant, 15406 SE 136th St., Renton, 98059, stated that she lives within the potential annexation area and expressed concern about potential flooding, not just with the stormwater, but with the underground water as well. She stressed the need for future developers and the City to work towards alleviating the flooding problems. Rich Bruzzi, 15249 SE 137th Pl., Renton, 98057, opposed the proposed annexation, and expressed concern regarding the clearing of one of the last densely forested parcels in the East Highlands area. Pointing out that the parcel is inhabited by wildlife, he stated that one of the already cleared parcels could be developed without sacrificing this wildlife habitat. Mr. Bruzzi acknowledged that the City is growing; however, the growth needs to be controlled in a way that works for everyone. Ginette Bruzzi, 15249 SE 137th Pl., Renton, 98057, stated that the increase in development results in an increase in cars, and noted that some single-family homes are host to five or six cars. She questioned whether any studies have been done to examine the effect of smog and congestion. Ms. Bruzzi emphasized that there are too many developments in this area and too much land is being cleared. Mary Snodgrass, 15502 SE 133rd St., Renton, 98059, commented on the opening of SE 133rd St. to the annexation area. Stressing that opening the road will cause an even greater increase in traffic; she expressed concern for the safety of the residents and questioned what will be done to address the traffic increase. Mr. Erickson explained that annexations are exempt from SEPA (State Environmental Policy Act) review, and are considered non-project activities. The environmental impacts will be examined when a development proposal is submitted. He pointed out that it is unknown at this point whether SE 133rd St. will be opened to provide access to the proposed annexation site. Pointing out the location of the urban growth boundary line, Mr. Erickson reviewed how the zoning potential within this urban growth area was reduced as required housing densities were achieved elsewhere in the City. Assistant City Attorney Zanetta Fontes clarified that at this time, the topic of discussion is the proposed annexation and zoning of the site. When a development is proposed, the public will be have the opportunity to comment on the plan. There being no further public comment, it was MOVED BY CLAWSON, SECONDED BY NELSON, COUNCIL CLOSE THE PUBLIC MEETING. CARRIED. In response to Councilman Persson's comments on the difference between King County and City zoning, Mr. Erickson explained that R-4 zoning in King County equates to 4 dwelling units per acre, and with bonuses, there is the potential of up to six units per acre. In Renton, R-4 zoning equates to approximately 3.85 dwelling units per acre. May 3, 2004 Renton City Council Minutes Page 138 MOVED BY PERSSON, SECONDED BY CLAWSON, COUNCIL ACCEPT THE MAPLEWOOD EAST 10% NOTICE OF INTENT TO ANNEX PETITION, AUTHORIZE CIRCULATION OF THE 60% DIRECT PETITION TO ANNEX SPECIFYING THAT PETITIONERS SUPPORT R-4 ZONING WITHIN THE AREA, AND PROPERTY OWNERS ASSUME A PROPORTIONAL SHARE OF THE CITY'S BONDED INDEBTEDNESS. CARRIED. PUBLIC HEARING Annexation: Merritt II, SE 100th Pl & Lyons Ave NE This being the date set and proper notices having been posted and published in accordance with local and State laws, Mayor Keolker-Wheeler opened the public hearing to consider the 50% Petition to Annex for the proposed Merritt II Annexation, which consists of 20.6 acres located northwest of the Stonegate subdivision, bounded by Lyons Ave. NE on the east, SE 100th Pl., if extended, on the south, and approximately 142nd Ave. SE, if extended, on the west. Don Erickson, Senior Planner, reported that the signatures on the petition, representing a majority of the area's acreage and a majority of registered voters in the area, was certified by King County. The site's existing King County zoning is R-1. Renton's Comprehensive Plan designates the site as Residential Low Density, and it was prezoned R-1 (one dwelling unit per net acre) in 1997. The area contains five single-family dwellings, and hosts some steep slopes along a ridge that runs diagonally through the middle of the site. Reviewing the public services, Mr. Erickson stated that the area is served by Water District #90, Coal Creek Utility District, and Renton water; by Fire District #25; and by both the Renton and Issaquah School Districts. He detailed the fiscal impacts of the proposed annexation assuming an increase to 17 single- family homes at full development, and a new home value of $400,000. The City will realize a surplus of $1,201 at current development, and a surplus of $2,208 at full development. Continuing, Mr. Erickson said the proposed annexation is generally consistent with Boundary Review Board (BRB) criteria; however, the BRB may expand the boundaries by invoking jurisdiction pursuant to RCW 36.93.100 during its 45-day review period. He indicated that King County staff see certain efficiencies resulting if the boundaries of the area are expanded northward to include May Valley Rd. and east to the existing City boundary. Mr. Erickson noted that the only way property owners within the expanded area can challenge that decision is by going to Superior Court, and the BRB decision does not trigger an election. Economic Development Administrator Alex Pietsch pointed out that the BRB will hold public hearings if it decides to expand the boundaries. He confirmed that affected property owners would receive notice from the BRB, and the decision would not affect the site's zoning. In conclusion, Mr. Erickson stated that the proposed annexation is within the best interests and general welfare of the City, and is consistent with City policies. He noted that except for parks and surface water, no major issues were identified. Public comment was invited. Dennis Noland, 14326 SE 100th Pl., Renton, 98059, said his property is located May 3, 2004 Renton City Council Minutes Page 139 near the proposed annexation area, and indicated that he supports landowners' rights to develop their property. He expressed concerns pertaining to surface water drainage; access to the property via SE 100th Pl. (which needs resurfacing); the substandard entrance to SE 100th Pl. off of Duvall Ave. NE; and the lack of parks. Bob Blayden, 9933 143rd Ave. SE, Renton, 98059, supported the proposed annexation. He stated that his property is located on the west side of the proposed annexation area, and noted that he voluntarily installed a retention pond on his property due to runoff from SE 100th Pl. Mr. Blayden indicated that if his property is developed, every consideration will be taken to maintain surface water and the wildlife habitat. There being no further public comment, it was MOVED BY LAW, SECONDED BY NELSON, COUNCIL CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING. CARRIED. MOVED BY LAW, SECONDED BY PERSSON, COUNCIL ACCEPT THE 50% DIRECT PETITION TO ANNEX FOR THE MERRITT II ANNEXATION, AND AUTHORIZE THE ADMINISTRATION TO SUBMIT A NOTICE OF INTENT TO ANNEX PACKAGE TO THE BOUNDARY REVIEW BOARD FOR KING COUNTY. CARRIED. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Derek Todd, Assistant to the CAO, reviewed a written administrative report summarizing the City’s recent progress towards goals and work programs adopted as part of its business plan for 2004 and beyond. Items noted included: ” The Recreation Division received an Award of Merit from the Washington State Recreation and Parks Association for its Winter/Spring Recreation Brochure. ” The Regional Transportation Investment District Executive Board adopted a draft transportation plan for King, Snohomish and Pierce counties on April 29th. This plan provides $2.7 billion for the I-405 Corridor project, which includes $820 million for that portion south of SR-169 including the I- 405/SR-167 interchange improvements. With the I-405 "nickel package" ($136 million), this amounts to $956 million for the portion of the project south of SR-169. AUDIENCE COMMENT Citizen Comment: See - Dean Sherman Apartments (Williams Ave S) John See, 438 Burnett Ave. S., Renton, 98055, stated that the Dean Sherman apartment project, located at S. 5th St. and Williams Ave. S., has changed from high-end rental units to affordable housing, and he fears that the project will become a low-income apartment complex. Mr. See indicated that he lives across the alley from the proposed project and is concerned that his house will be damaged during the construction of the apartment building. He also expressed concern about the noise, pointing out that construction is estimated to take one year. Councilwoman Nelson suggested that City staff meet with the affected neighboring residents to discuss what they can expect during the construction process. Councilwoman Briere commented that when construction occurred near her home a few years ago, the City's inspectors made sure the builders were mindful of its impact on the surrounding neighborhood. Mr. Pietsch reviewed the finance method being used by the developers Sherman Homes and DASH (Downtown Action to Save Housing) for this project. He pointed out that although this property exceeds the density levels adopted through the South Renton Neighborhood Plan, the height, bulk and scale of the May 3, 2004 Renton City Council Minutes Page 140 building comply with the plan. Councilman Persson expressed concern that while construction is not allowed prior to 7:00 a.m., suppliers make deliveries prior to that time. He also noted that suppliers may block the nearby alley when unloading supplies. Based on the type and location of the project, Mr. Persson emphasized the need for the City to closely monitor the building process. Planning/Building/Public Works Administrator Gregg Zimmerman stated that a pre-construction meeting will be established and some conditions may be placed on the construction and building permits for this project. He reviewed the times when construction is allowed, and indicated that City staff will diligently monitor erosion control and clean up. Mayor Keolker-Wheeler said she was impressed with the DASH projects she toured recently, and stressed that the proposed apartment building's quality has not been downgraded. Sherman Homes is just using a different financing mechanism. Councilwoman Nelson requested that a copy of the staff report regarding the DASH development proposal be sent to concerned parties John See and Bob Moran. In response to Councilman Corman's inquiry, Mayor Keolker-Wheeler explained the process by which the City came to adopt the South Renton Neighborhood Plan, noting that there was extensive public input. Mr. Corman stated for the record that it is important that the City do with that neighborhood what the neighborhood overall would like. He said he is cognizant of the Comprehensive Plan, but noted it is a difficult neighborhood to define due to its proximity to downtown and its history. Mr. Pietsch reported that this project has received site plan approval, and the builders are expected to come in for building permits. He stated that discussion has occurred regarding a possible unit increase, however it is internal to the building. Mr. Pietsch noted that the modification is an appealable action. Chief Administrative Officer Jay Covington assured that any modification request and its impact on the neighborhood will be thoroughly reviewed. In response to Councilwoman Nelson's comments, Mr. Pietsch stated that staff is working with the developer and the proposal to ensure that the same quality project is produced as was promised over the past couple of years. RECESS MOVED BY CORMAN, SECONDED BY PERSSON, COUNCIL RECESS FOR FIVE MINUTES. CARRIED. Time: 8:52 p.m. The meeting was reconvened at 8:58 p.m.; roll was called; all Councilmembers present. CONSENT AGENDA Items on the consent agenda are adopted by one motion which follows the listing. At the request of Council President Persson, item 8.b. was removed for separate consideration. Council Meeting Minutes of April 26, 2004 Approval of Council meeting minutes of April 26, 2004. Council concur. Human Services: 2002 & 2004 CDBG Funds Reallocation and Award Human Services Division recommended setting a public hearing on 5/24/2004 on the reallocation of 2002 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) capital projects and the allocation of unallocated 2002 CDBG capital funds. Refer to Community Services Committee; set public hearing on 5/24/2004. May 3, 2004 Renton City Council Minutes Page 141 SAD: NE 2nd St Planning/Building/Public Works Department requested authorization to establish the final NE 2nd Street Special Assessment District at the per unit assessment of $4,800. Authorization was also sought to make final payment to the developer for extending the sewer main in NE 2nd St. in the amount of $82,290.62. Refer to Utilities Committee. CAG: 01-071, Maple Valley Hwy HOV, Perteet Engineering Transportation Systems Division recommended approval of Supplemental Agreement No. 3 to CAG-01-071, agreement with Perteet Engineering, Inc., for additional engineering services in the amount of $73,660 for the Maple Valley Hwy. (SR-169) HOV, 140th Way SE to SR-900 project. Council concur. MOVED BY PERSSON, SECONDED BY NELSON, COUNCIL APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED TO REMOVE ITEM 8.b. FOR SEPARATE CONSIDERATION. CARRIED. Separate Consideration Item 8.b. Community Services: City Center Parking, Parking Stall Lease, King County Metro Community Services Department recommended approval of a five-year lease with King County Metro for 100 parking stalls in the City Center Parking garage, with the possibility of expanding to 200 stalls over the term of the lease. Revenue generated is $12,000 annually. At the request of Council President Persson, Community Services Administrator Dennis Culp explained that with the purchase of the K-Mart property by McLendon Hardware, King County Metro loses its park and ride parking spaces at the K-Mart parking lot on Rainier Ave. S. in June. Parking is available at the City Center Parking garage and the City and King County have developed an agreement for the lease of parking stalls at that site. Mr. Culp stated that the City wanted to ensure that its operating costs were covered, and that it protected its ability to use the garage as the downtown develops and more people are interested in long-term parking. Continuing, Mr. Culp explained that unlike the long-term parking, which requires the use of an access card, the park and ride parking stalls can only be used from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. He detailed the provisions of the lease, pointing out that the lease provides for price escalations as the garage becomes more heavily used by both Metro and City users. Mr. Culp stated that King County added a bus run that travels from the City's parking garage to Seattle during the commute periods. In response to Council inquiries, Mr. Culp described how the monthly $10 per stall price was arrived at. King County Metro representative Robin Anderson reviewed the rates King County pays for parking stalls at its other park and ride sites. Responding to Councilman Law's concerns related to security and security costs, Mr. Culp stated that the costs were factored into the City's overhead; however, the cost of any increase in 911 calls and police dispatch were not. He detailed the security arrangements at the City Center Parking Garage, which includes four panic buttons on each floor and 16 cameras. Mr. Culp confirmed that the lease specifies that King County may use the parking spaces without additional charge on weekends; however, prior approval from the City is required. Councilwoman Nelson added that the garage was built with the understanding that Sound Transit or King County Metro would use some of the parking stalls. Discussion ensued regarding the use of the park and ride parking stalls by non- commuters; overnight parking by non-long-term stall users; the potential use of May 3, 2004 Renton City Council Minutes Page 142 Metro-provided security guards; and the possibility of connecting the cameras to the Internet so parking garage users can check on their vehicles. Councilman Clawson noted that this lease will draw even more people to the downtown area. MOVED BY BRIERE, SECONDED BY NELSON, COUNCIL APPROVE THE CITY CENTER PARKING GARAGE LEASE WITH KING COUNTY METRO. CARRIED. ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS The following ordinance was presented for second and final reading and adoption: Ordinance #5073 Transportation: Fund 317 Allocation (King County Mitigation Funds) An ordinance was read amending the 2004 Transportation Capital Improvement Fund 317 to allocate $2,216,000 in King County mitigation revenue to specific projects. MOVED BY BRIERE, SECONDED BY NELSON, COUNCIL ADOPT THE ORDINANCE AS READ. ROLL CALL: ALL AYES. CARRIED. NEW BUSINESS Community Services: Fire Station #15 Site Condition Council President Persson reported a citizen complaint regarding the unkempt condition of the City-owned site on N. 30th St., which was purchased for future Fire Station #15. ADJOURNMENT MOVED BY PERSSON, SECONDED BY NELSON, COUNCIL ADJOURN. CARRIED. Time: 9:28 p.m. Bonnie I. Walton, City Clerk Recorder: Michele Neumann May 3, 2004