HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-19-04
RENTON CITY COUNCIL
Regular Meeting
July 19, 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 called the meeting of the Renton City Council
to order and led the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
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; DEREK
TODD, Assistant to the CAO; CHIEF GARRY ANDERSON and
COMMANDER KATHLEEN MCCLINCY, Police Department.
PUBLIC MEETING
Annexation: Park Terrace, NE
8th St & Duvall 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 meeting to consider the 10% Notice of Intent petition for the proposed
7.65-acre Park Terrace Annexation, located south of NE 8th St. (SE 120th St.),
if extended, and east of Duvall Ave. NE.
Don Erickson, Senior Planner, reported that the site is within Renton's Potential
Annexation Area, and contains 17 single-family dwellings on an existing plat of
23 lots. The topography of the area slopes upward from the southeast corner to
the northeast corner, and no environmental constraints have been identified. He
noted that the site is served by Fire District #25, and is within the Water District
#90 service area, the Renton sewer service area, and the Renton School District.
Mr. Erickson stated that current King County zoning is R-4 (four units per gross
acre), and Renton's Comprehensive Plan designates the site as Residential
Single Family, for which R-8 (eight units per net acre) zoning is proposed.
Continuing, Mr. Erickson pointed out that this is a smaller annexation than
normal, that it is an existing King County subdivision with inferior streets, and
that future development is limited to six new lots. However, this annexation is a
potential catalyst for the annexation of a larger unincorporated peninsula to the
north. He noted the possibility of King County invoking jurisdiction if the
annexation is submitted to the Boundary Review Board (BRB).
Mr. Erickson stated that the fiscal impact analysis indicates a deficit of $7,353
at full development, and there is an estimated one-time parks acquisition and
development cost of $19,477. In conclusion, Mr. Erickson said the proposed
annexation is consistent with Renton annexation and zoning policies, and with
BRB 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.
Responding to Councilman Clawson's inquiry regarding the BRB invoking
jurisdiction, Economic Development Administrator Alex Pietsch explained that
during the BRB's 45-day review period of a submitted annexation petition, King
County or another jurisdiction may invoke jurisdiction, which can potentially
change the boundaries of the proposed annexation. If that occurs, the Renton
City Council makes the final decision regarding whether or not to approve the
July 19, 2004 Renton City Council Minutes Page 236
annexation with the amended boundary. He pointed out that the owners within
the expanded area can challenge that decision in Superior Court.
Public comment was invited.
Bob Wenzl, Vineyards Construction, PO Box 2401, Kirkland, 98083, stated that
he is the petitioner for the annexation, and he owns five of the vacant lots. He
confirmed that the annexation is mainly sewer driven, and there is the potential
of subdividing the existing vacant lots. Reporting that he has talked to every
property owner in the subdivision, Mr. Wenzl indicated that over 65% of the
owners are in favor of the annexation. He said that since there is no City-driven
plan to provide sewer access, he would bring sewer to his lots and other lots at
his cost. Mr. Wenzl concluded by stating he does not plan on constructing an
apartment building.
Duncan Smith, 12115 138th Pl. SE, Renton, 98059, expressed concern that the
developer called his wife at work to discuss the potential annexation. Mr. Smith
stated that he opposes the high-density development that is occurring in other
neighborhoods, and fears it will occur in his neighborhood as well.
Additionally, Mr. Smith submitted a petition containing 31 signatures of
residents within and near the site's boundaries who oppose the annexation.
Councilmembers questioned why Mr. Smith's wife was contacted at work by the
developer. Mr. Erickson explained that he had discussed the annexation process
with Mr. Smith's wife, and then informed the developer that some people within
the annexation area were not aware of what was going on. He confirmed that
his intent was to connect the questioning party with someone who could answer
the questions.
Carol Peterson, 12115 138th Pl. SE, Renton, 98059, identified herself as Mr.
Smith's wife, and voiced her unhappiness with being contacted at work by the
developer. Ms. Peterson expressed the following concerns regarding the
annexation: the rural nature of her neighborhood will change; the lack of
information about the annexation proposal; the small size of the annexation
area; and the costs the property owners will incur.
Mayor Keolker-Wheeler apologized for any confusion that occurred in trying to
relay information regarding the annexation to Ms. Peterson. She advised that
the State Growth Management Act mandates that land up to the urban growth
boundary line must be annexed to Renton at some point in time. She expressed
her understanding of citizens' concerns regarding the changing nature of their
neighborhood.
Mayor Keolker-Wheeler also pointed out that zoning for the area is single-
family, and citizens do not have to connect to the sewer unless they choose to.
Additionally, she noted that this is not a City-initiated annexation.
Assistant City Attorney Zanetta Fontes pointed out for the record that when
someone contacts City staff and information such as name, address, and
telephone number is noted, the information is public record. Councilman
Corman stated for the record that the City should be careful when putting a
developer in contact with a citizen, and that permission to do so be sought from
the citizen.
In response to Council President Persson's comments regarding liens on
property for sewer connection, Planning/Building/Public Works Administrator
Gregg Zimmerman explained that a notice of potential lien states that if at some
July 19, 2004 Renton City Council Minutes Page 237
future date a property owner chooses to hook-up to the sewer, there is an
obligation to pay their fair share for the sewer. If the property owner does not
connect to the sewer, there is no lien attached to the property. He reviewed the
private latecomer agreement process, and noted that some developers choose
not to require payment for the sewer line installation.
Mr. Persson stated that if a resident's septic system fails and sewer connection is
an option, it is the King County Public Health Department's decision as to
whether the resident must connect to the sewer. He noted the value of having
that option if the septic system should fail.
Wayne Wesson, 12003 138th Pl. SE, Renton, 98059, opposed the proposed
annexation. He stated that he does not see why the City has to annex this area
and other areas to the east, and he does not see why King County wants to
dispose of the property. He expressed concern that the developer may develop
his property differently than he is now indicating. Noting the deficit and one-
time parks expense the City will encounter if the property is annexed, Mr.
Wesson said if the City keeps annexing property, the money that is needed to
manage the areas it already has will run out. He pointed out that the sewer line
can be extended to the area even if it is not annexed to Renton.
Councilman Clawson stated that the site is not eligible for connection to
Renton's sewer unless it is annexed. Additionally, he reviewed the purpose of
the Growth Management Act, noting that the act is striving to prevent urban
sprawl.
Councilwoman Briere pointed out that the King County tax rate is higher per
household than Renton's.
Lisa Wesson, 12003 138th Pl. SE, Renton, 98059, said she recently moved to
Renton from North Bend, which is a city that has experienced heavy
development. She pointed out that she likes the neighborhood the way it is, and
expressed her disappointment about the potential development of the area.
Ardice Menager, 12021 140th Ave. SE, Renton, 98059, commented that she has
lived in Renton since 1962, enjoys living in her neighborhood, and looks
forward to annexing into the City of Renton. She also noted that a street light
would be a welcome addition to the neighborhood.
Correspondence was read from Wayne and Lisa Wesson, 12003 138th Pl. SE,
Renton, 98059, urging Council not to support the proposed annexation.
There being no further public comment, it was MOVED BY LAW,
SECONDED BY PERSSON, COUNCIL CLOSE THE PUBLIC MEETING.
CARRIED.
MOVED BY PERSSON, SECONDED BY BRIERE, COUNCIL: ACCEPT
THE PARK TERRACE ANNEXATION 10% NOTICE OF INTENT TO
ANNEX PETITION; AUTHORIZE THE CIRCULATION OF THE 60%
DIRECT PETITION TO ANNEX; REQUIRE R-8 ZONING CONSISTENT
WITH THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN; AND REQUIRE THAT PROPERTY
OWNERS ASSUME A PROPORTIONAL SHARE OF THE CITY'S
OUTSTANDING INDEBTEDNESS. CARRIED.
ADMINISTRATIVE
REPORT
Chief Administrative Officer Jay Covington 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:
IKEA Renton River Days begins this week at Liberty Park and other
July 19, 2004 Renton City Council Minutes Page 238
locations. This annual festival celebrates all the amenities and activities that
make Renton a great community in which to live, work, and play.
As of June 13th, 34 states plus Puerto Rico reported the presence of the
West Nile Virus. The only western states with no detection are
Washington, Oregon, Montana, Nevada, and Utah. Peak activity for the
West Nile Virus is from late July through early September.
Beginning June 20th, nine members of the Police Department's Patrol
Services Division will be assigned to "Quality of Life" issues in the
Highlands. The areas between NE 7th St. to NE 27th St. and Edmonds
Ave. NE to Monroe Ave. NE have been targeted and will be saturated with
police patrols, animal control, and parking enforcement. This effort is a
beginning to the strong nuisance abatement and City Code enforcement
initiatives discussed by the Mayor earlier this year.
Community Services: "Into the
Woods" Teen Musical
Mayor Keolker-Wheeler reported that she attended the opening performance of
the teen musical "Into the Woods" at Carco Theatre, and she encouraged
everyone to attend this fantastic show.
AUDIENCE COMMENT
Citizen Comment: Wenzl -
City Development Process
Appreciation
Bob Wenzl, Vineyards Construction, PO Box 2401, Kirkland, 98083, stated that
he has had the pleasure of working with the City of Renton since approximately
2000. Noting that he has worked with every city along the I-405 corridor, Mr.
Wenzl stressed that Renton is the best city for a builder to work in and
complimented the Planning/Building/Public Works Department staff. He
pointed out that the City gets things done, is reasonable, and is proactive.
Citizen Comment: Johnson -
Bus Shelter Installation, Main
Ave S & S 4th St
Arland "Buzz" Johnson, 334 Wells Ave. S., #221, Renton, 98055, stated that he
agreed with the potential removal of the bus shelter located on the east side of
Main Ave. S. at S. 4th St. However, he indicated that a bus shelter is needed on
the west side of Main Ave. S. In pursuing this matter, he learned that if 20
people use the bus stop every day, it may be eligible for a shelter. Mr. Johnson
said that he has been trying to get more people to use the bus, and requested the
City's support in helping to get a bus shelter at that location.
CONSENT AGENDA Items on the consent agenda are adopted by one motion which follows the
listing. At the request of Councilwoman Briere, item 6.f. was removed for
separate consideration.
Council Meeting Minutes of
July 12, 2004
Approval of Council meeting minutes of July 12, 2004. Council concur.
City Clerk: 2004 Renton
Population
City Clerk reported the official population of the City of Renton as of April 1,
2004, to be 55,360 as calculated by the State of Washington Office of Financial
Management. Information.
Community Services: Pavilion
Building Renovation, Mithun
Architects Repayment
Extension
Community Services Department recommended approval to allow Mithun
Architects to extend its repayment schedule to June, 2006, from the currently
agreed to date of December 31, 2004, for the design irregularities on the
Pavilion Building renovation project. Refer to Finance Committee.
Development Services:
Skywire Short Plat ROW
Dedication, Index Ave NE &
NE 5th Pl
Development Services Division recommended acceptance of the dedication of
additional right-of-way at the corner of Index Ave. NE and NE 5th Pl. to fulfill
a requirement of the Skywire Short Plat (SHP-04-023). Council concur.
Annexation: Anthone´, Talbot
Rd S & SE 192nd St
Economic Development, Neighborhoods and Strategic Planning Department
submitted 10% Notice of Intent to annex petition for the proposed Anthone´
July 19, 2004 Renton City Council Minutes Page 239
Annexation, 4.84 acres located east of Talbot Rd. S. and south of SE 192nd St.,
and recommended a public meeting be set on 8/02/2004, to consider the
petition. Council concur.
Plat: Stonehaven, Main Ave S,
PP-04-003
Hearing Examiner recommended approval, with conditions, of the Stonehaven
Preliminary Plat; 36 single-family lots on 5.95 acres located at 4801 and 4815
Main Ave. S. (PP-04-003). Council concur.
Human Resources: 2004
Group Health Cooperative
Medical Coverage Agreements
Human Resources and Risk Management Department recommended approval of
the 2004 Group Health Cooperative medical coverage agreements for LEOFF I
Employees; LEOFF I Retirees; and all other City of Renton covered employees.
Refer to Finance Committee.
Utility: SW 7th St Storm
System Improvement Project
& Small Drainage Projects
Program, Fund Transfer
Utilities Systems Division requested approval to transfer $165,000 from the NE
10th St. and Anacortes Ave. NE Storm System Improvement Project to the SW
7th St. Storm System Improvement Project ($120,000) and the Small Drainage
Projects Program ($45,000). Refer to Utilities Committee.
MOVED BY PERSSON, SECONDED BY LAW, COUNCIL APPROVE THE
CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED TO REMOVE ITEM 6.f. FOR
SEPARATE CONSIDERATION. CARRIED.
Separate Consideration
Item 6.f.
Fire: King County Emergency
Medical Services Lease at
Station #14
Fire Department recommended approval of a lease with King County in the
amount of $751.29 per month plus escalation clause, to continue allowing the
stationing of a King County paramedic unit in Renton's Fire Station #14.
MOVED BY BRIERE, SECONDED BY PERSSON, COUNCIL REFER ITEM
6.f. TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE. CARRIED.
CORRESPONDENCE
Citizen Comment: Rigley -
Sewer Service Connection
Request, 148th Ave SE
A letter was read from David Rigley, 9845 148th Ave. SE, Renton, 98059,
requesting connection to Renton's sewer for a future single-family residence at
9831 148th Ave. SE (King County parcel #032305-9257-06), located outside
the Renton City limits.
Noting that this request meets City Code requirements, it was MOVED BY
CLAWSON, SECONDED BY CORMAN, COUNCIL APPROVE DAVID
RIGLEY'S REQUEST FOR SEWER CONNECTION. CARRIED.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Public Safety Committee
Development Services:
Portable Generators, Noise
Ordinance Revision
Public Safety Committee Chair Law presented a report concurring in the staff
recommendation that Renton's noise ordinance be modified so portable
generator use is permitted during times when no electrical service is available
due to a natural disaster or power outage. The Committee further recommended
that the ordinance regarding this matter be presented for reading at a subsequent
meeting. MOVED BY LAW, SECONDED BY NELSON, COUNCIL
CONCUR IN THE COMMITTEE REPORT. CARRIED.
Transportation (Aviation)
Committee
Public Works: Access Roads
with RR Crossings for Barbee
Mill Plat, Public or Private
Transportation (Aviation) Committee Chair Palmer presented a report regarding
access roads for Barbee Mill Preliminary Plat (LUA-02-040). The property
owner for the proposed plat has requested approval from City Council,
designating the two proposed railroad crossings providing access to the site as
public crossings. These two at-grade crossings of the Burlington Northern
Railroad will provide access to a proposed residential subdivision between the
railroad tracks and Lake Washington. At the suggestion of City staff, the
applicant has requested that Council decide if these crossings should be publicly
owned and maintained, or be developed as private crossings under the
ownership and maintenance of the property owner or future homeowners'
association. Following this decision and submittal of appropriate revised plans
for the preliminary plat, a public hearing will be scheduled with the Hearing
Examiner to continue with the approval process for the project.
July 19, 2004 Renton City Council Minutes Page 240
The Committee recommended approval of the request to designate the two
railroad crossings to the Barbee Mill development site as public railroad
crossings. The Committee recommended required that the public railroad
crossings be improved with active traffic control, including signals and gates.
These crossing improvements are to be fully funded by the project developer,
and without City financial participation. The Committee further recommended
that City staff work with the property owner to petition the Washington Utility
and Transportation Committee for approval of the two public railroad crossings.
The Committee supported the request to designate these railroad crossings as
public crossings to ensure appropriate access to the public street system and
public shoreline access points for the future development of the site. MOVED
BY PALMER, SECONDED BY BRIERE, COUNCIL CONCUR IN THE
COMMITTEE REPORT.*
Councilman Clawson expressed concerns about the liability associated with
owning railroad crossings, and indicated his intent to vote no on the committee
report.
Councilwoman Briere stated that the Committee felt it was important to have
public railroad crossings since the crossings would be connecting public
properties - the public access to the lake and the public streets. She pointed out
that active signals and gates would be installed at the crossings.
Councilman Corman reported that Committee members discussed the liability
issues, and decided that public ownership is a way to ensure the installation of
active crossing gates. If the crossings were privately owned, active traffic
control may not be installed. Additionally, he noted the importance of
preserving public access to the lake.
Councilman Law agreed that the installation of active traffic controls at the
railroad crossings will make them much safer than many of the crossings the
City already owns.
Committee members discussed that it was the intent of the Committee to require
active traffic control improvements at the railroad crossings. Councilman
Clawson said since the Committee is requiring active traffic control, not just
recommending it, he would concur in the Committee report.
*MOTION CARRIED.
RESOLUTIONS AND
ORDINANCES
The following ordinance was presented for second and final reading and
adoption:
Ordinance #5090
Council: Deferred
Compensation Benefit
An ordinance was read amending Section 1-5-1.C of Chapter 5, Council, of
Title I (Administrative) of City Code by including the deferred compensation
benefit in the City Councilmembers' salary description. MOVED BY
PERSSON, SECONDED BY CORMAN, COUNCIL ADOPT THE
ORDINANCE AS READ. ROLL CALL: ALL AYES. CARRIED.
NEW BUSINESS
Citizen Comment: King -
Allowing Pets in Gene Coulon
Park
Council President Persson reported receipt of e-mail from Pat King, 4500 NE
6th Pl., Renton, 98059, requesting that the City allow leashed dogs in Gene
Coulon Memorial Beach Park. MOVED BY PERSSON, SECONDED BY
CORMAN, COUNCIL REFER THIS CORRESPONDENCE REGARDING
July 19, 2004 Renton City Council Minutes Page 241
ALLOWING PETS IN GENE COULON PARK TO THE PARK BOARD
AND COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE. CARRIED.
Annexation: Public
Meeting/Hearing Notices
MOVED BY BRIERE, SECONDED BY CORMAN, COUNCIL REFER THE
TOPIC OF ANNEXATION PUBLIC INFORMATION NOTICES TO THE
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE. CARRIED.
AUDIENCE COMMENT
Citizen Comment: Bonner -
I-405 Corridor Project
Robert Bonner, 617 Cedar Ave. S., Renton, 98055, expressed concern regarding
the effect the I-405 corridor improvements will have on Cedar Ave. S., and
requested information about the I-405 project.
ADJOURNMENT MOVED BY LAW, SECONDED BY CORMAN, COUNCIL ADJOURN.
CARRIED. Time: 9:14 p.m.
Bonnie I. Walton, City Clerk
Recorder: Michele Neumann
July 19, 2004