01/28/1997 City CouncilEDMONDS CITY COUNCIL APPROVED MINUTES
JANUARY 28, 1997
The Edmonds City Council meeting was called to order at 7:03 p.m. by Mayor Barbara Fahey in the
Library Plaza Room, 650 Main Street, followed by the flag salute.
ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT
Barbara Fahey, Mayor
Dave Earling, Council President
Tom Petruzzi, Councilmember
John Nordquist, Councilmember
Roger L. Myers, Councilmember
Jim White, Councilmember (arrived 7:07 p.m.)
Dick Van Hollebeke, Councilmember
Gary Haakenson, Councilmember
ALSO PRESENT
Robbie Cuningham, Student Representative
1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
STAFF PRESENT
Robin Hickok, Police Chief
Art Housler, Administrative Services Director
James Walker, City Engineer
Rob Chave, Planning Manager
Stephen Koho, Treatment Plant Manager
Brent Hunter, Personnel Manager
Scott Snyder, City Attorney
Sandy Chase, City Clerk
Jeannie Dines, Recorder
COUNCILMEMBER MYERS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER VAN
HOLLEBEKE, FOR APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA AS PRESENTED. MOTION CARRIED.
(Councilmember White was not present for the vote.)
2. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
Councilmember Van Hollebeke pulled Item F.
COUNCILMEMBER PETRUZZI MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT EARLING,
FOR PASSAGE OF THE REMAINDER OF THE CONSENT AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED.
(Councilmember White was not present for the vote.) The agenda items passed are as follows:
(A) ROLL CALL
(B) APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF JANUARY 21,1997
(C) APPROVAL OF CLAIM WARRANTS #12240 THRU #15153 FOR THE WEEK OF
JANUARY 20, 1997, IN THE AMOUNT OF $169,868.31
(D) ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF CLAIM FOR DAMAGES FROM ROBERT G. AND
ALLISON A. MORRISON ($1,073.12)
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 28, 1997
Page 1
(E) ORDINANCE NO. 3129 REZONING CERTAIN REAL PROPERTY GENERALLY
LOCATED AT STEVEN'S MEMORIAL HOSPITAL FROM "RM 2.4" AND "CG 2" TO
"MU", MEDICAL USE ZONE
(G) . AUTHORIZATION TO PURCHASE EQUIPMENT TO MODIFY THE INCINERATOR
Feed Pump FEED PUMP AT THE TREATMENT PLANT FROM SCHWING AMERICA ($30,008)
RESOLUTION NO. 863 COMMENDING COUNCILMEMBER THOMAS J. PETRUZZI
ITEM F
Councilmember Van Hollebeke explained he pulled Consent Agenda Item F to praise it and to inform the
public that the Center for Battered Women's victim advocacy services provides helpful programs for
many people.
COUNCILMEMBER VAN HOLLEBEKE MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT
EARLING, FOR PASSAGE OF ITEM F. MOTION CARRIED. (Councilmember White was not
present for the vote.) The item approved is as follows:
(F)AUTHORIZATION FOR MAYOR TO SIGN CONTRACT FOR VICTIM ADVOCACY
SERVICES WITH CENTER FOR BATTERED WOMEN
3. RECOGNITION OF COUNCILMEMBER THOMAS J. PETRUZZI'S SERVICE TO THE CITY
OF EDMONDS
Council President Earling explained this time has been set aside to acknowledge the service
Councilmember Petruzzi has given to the City by serving on the City Council. Mr. Earling noted there
were several former Councilmembers, former Police Chiefs as well as elected officials present this
evening in honor of Mr. Petruzzi.
Council President Earling read Resolution #863, acknowledging Councilmember Petruzzi for his five
years of service as a Councilmember. A particular highlight from the resolution was recognition of Mr.
Petruzzi's efforts in protecting and enhancing the fiscal integrity of the City, and recognition of his
leadership in maintaining emergency medical service for the citizens while serving on the Boards of
Medic 7 and SnoCom. Council President Earling then presented Councilmember Petruzzi with a plaque
from the Mayor and Councilmembers.
Councilmember Petruzzi remarked it was a pleasure and an honor to serve the citizens of Edmonds for
five years and he hoped his efforts would be looked upon as having made a small contribution to the
Edmonds way of life. He recalled the challenges, debates, sharing of ideas and opinions, and friendships
during the five years he served on the Council. He urged citizens who want to meet "the best of the best"
in the community, to volunteer their time to support the community. He acknowledged former
Councilmembers Jeff Palmer, Michael Hall, Steve Dwyer and Bill Kasper, and former Mayor Laura
Hall, with whom he served. Mr. Petruzzi added that his plans were to spend more time with his wife,
Maryke, daughters, and granddaughter. He concluded with the words of Robert Frost—"I shall be telling
this with a sigh, somewhere ages and ages hence: two roads diverged in a wood, and I - I took the one
less traveled by, and that has made all the difference."
President Earling recognized leading citizens in the audience whose attendance was a tribute to
Councilmember Petruzzi.
Mayor Fahey commented the two years she spent with Councilmember Petruzzi on the Council were a
delight. He assisted her in becoming oriented to the Council and she was always impressed with the
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 28, 1997
Page 2
dimensions of his knowledge and expertise. As Mayor, it has been her pleasure to work closely with
Councilmember Petruzzi and she thanked him for his involvement in Medic 7. On behalf of the City
staff, they appreciated the leadership Councilmember Petruzzi brought as a Councilmember and his
desire to work with them and bring about the best decisions. Staff considers him one of the highly
contributing, resourceful, and helpful members of the Council.
Councilmember Myers said serving with Councilmember Petruzzi on the Council has been a pleasure as
well as educational. His recollections of Councilmember Petruzzi will include persistence, integrity and
friendship.
Councilmember White noted it has been a privilege to get to know Councilmember Petruzzi and an
honor to serve with him. In all matters, he found Mr. Petruzzi to be entirely honest and a man who acted
with integrity and diligence in performance of his service to the City.
Recalling it was one year ago he was appointed to the Council, Councilmember Haakenson expressed his
appreciation to Councilmember Petruzzi and the other Councilmembers who supported his appointment.
He praised Councilmember Petruzzi for his ability to have a very emotional vote, and when it was all
over and done with, have the ability to make everybody feel good about the vote, and move on with no
problems.
Councilmember Nordquist said he enjoyed Councilmember Petruzzi's friendship on the Council as well
as the personal relationship they have developed. He recognized the support Councilmember Petruzzi's
wife, Maryke, has given him. He thanked Councilmember Petruzzi for his contribution to the City.
Councilmember Van Hollebeke said it has been a pleasure to have an opportunity to serve on the Council
with Councilmember Petruzzi largely due to the passion and conviction he brings to his decisions.
Student Representative Cuningham said his involvement on the Council has prompted numerous
comments regarding Councilmember Petruzzi's participation in the community. On behalf of the
community, he thanked Councilmember Petruzzi for being an example.
Mayor Fahey expressed her appreciation to Councilmember Petruzzi's wife, Maryke, for her support—
not only for Council meetings—but other committee meetings and days he was preoccupied with
Council business.
Jeff Palmer, former Councilmember, said, as a member of the community, he echoed Student
Representative Cuningham's comments, noting he appreciated Councilmember Petruzzi's diligence in his
approach to his job as a Councilmember. His opinions, strong work ethics, and love of the community
were appreciated.
Mayor Fahey recessed the meeting for a brief reception in Councilmember Petruzzi's honor.
4. REPORT ON JANUARY 14, 1997, COUNCIL COMMITTEE MEETINGS
Finance Committee
Committee Chair Nordquist referred to the Finance Committee Minutes provided with the January 21
Council packet. Mr. Nordquist was elected Chair at that meeting. Items discussed at the meeting
included: (a) review of vehicles to be purchased from the State purchase contract, (b) presentation
regarding a sports complex, and (C) approval of petty cash expenditures for December 1996.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 28, 1997
Page 3
Councilmember Van Hollebeke was elected as Chair of the Committee. Committee Chair Van
Hollebeke explained their meeting included a status report by City Engineer Jim Walker on the Interim
Water Group. This is an effort to determine where the City will get its water in the future. Fortunately,
Edmonds receives its water from two major water suppliers, Seattle Water Department and the
Alderwood Water District. No action was taken other than to continue monitoring the situation. The
Committee next discussed storm water rate equity—residents served by Olympic View Water and Sewer
are not charged for storm drainage service but the sewer charge for residents serviced by the City
includes a charge for storm water service. The recently authorized storm water rate study will result in
recommended methods for assessing storm water charges. The Committee also discussed planning fees
including the need for a refund policy, penalties for permits submitted as a result of code enforcement,
and an appeal process.
Public Public Safety Committee
Councilmember Myers was elected as Chair of the Committee. Committee Member White advised their
committee reviewed goals for the Edmonds Police Foundation with several members of the Foundation.
He explained the Police Foundation is a.group of citizens who organize activities to benefit the Edmonds
Police Department. The Committee also discussed fire apparatus replacement which included a
presentation by Fire Chief Springer regarding options. It was agreed to add a discussion of fire apparatus
replacement to the Council's retreat agenda.
5. PRESENTATION ON THE ANNUAL WORK PLAN OF THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Chris Guitton, Chamber President, reported the Chamber, which was founded in 1907, now has 250
members. Their mission is to promote the economic vitality of the greater Edmonds business
community through advocacy, leadership, and education.
Char Garrett, Past President, reviewed the Chamber's accomplishments during 1996. These included
reorganization, increased volunteer activities, electing a representative Board of Directors, managing a.
sound financial program, supporting the Edmonds Alliance for Economic Development, upgrading
Economic Development programs, increasing responsiveness to member businesses, promoting interests
of member businesses, supporting youth and education programs, and organization of several major
community events.
Larry Naughten, President Elect, described the results of the 1997 business survey. He explained the
purpose of the survey was to identify membership needs, improve communications, plan for 1997 and
allocate resources' accordingly. The . survey identified three priorities—economic development,
networking and sales, and public issues. During their Chamber Directors' retreat, the survey information
was analyzed and the needs incorporated into the 1997 budget.
Lynda Ransley, Executive Director, explained , their 1997 Plan includes building on past
accomplishments. As a membership organization of businesses, they are in a unique position to actively
support the business community. A decision was made at the January Board meeting to change the name
to the Greater Edmonds Chamber of Commerce which reflects their desire to actively support businesses
.throughout the community. She explained the Chamber operates the log cabin information center as well
as an administrative office at 110 James Street. Their Board of Directors is made up of a diverse group
with a range of expertise and represent all segments of the community, both geographically and business
types. She described the Chamber's action plan for 1997 which includes, 1) activation of membership, 2)
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 28, 1997
Page 4
economic and business development, 3) community events and public relations, 4) effective operation,
and 5) strengthening resources in 1997 and beyond. She pointed out their 1997 budget reflected the five
point action plan. The Chamber feels the business community is important to Edmonds and its quality of
life and looks forward to working with the Council over the coming year. In order for the Chamber to be
the best it can be, it is seeking a very involved membership, proactive leadership, and great partnerships
with all other agencies that work to support the business community.
Student Representative Cuningham encouraged the Chamber to contact the high school with requests for
volunteers and offered to assist in recruiting volunteers.
Councilmember Van Hollebeke commented on the Chamber's enthusiasm and their partnership with the
Edmonds Alliance for Economic Development.
Mayor Fahey expressed her appreciation for the Chamber's efforts with economic development and the
establishment of the Alliance for Economic Development.
Council President Earling complimented the Chamber for their renewed focus in the last couple years,
particularly Ms. Ransley's efforts to make the Chamber more business -like and focused.
Councilmember Myers complimented the change in the name as it indicates the Chamber represents the
total Edmonds community.
6. REPORT ON GENERAL FUND FINANCIAL POSITION FOR THE YEAR ENDING DECEMBER
Mayor Fahey explained normally the year-end report focuses on target to actual figures. However, the
focus of this report and the presentation will be on original budget to actual figures, specifically the
revenue difficulty encountered in 1996 resulting in reductions to the original budget. This will illustrate
that expenses were cut substantially and revenues were not as low as expected. Further, some reductions
were due to projects not completed and are re -budgeted in the 1997 budget.
Administrative Services Director Art Housler, explained much of the difficulty in 1996 resulted from
annexations—the City added staff and expected revenue generation in 1996 from the annexations which
did not occur, primarily in State shared revenues. Mr. Housler displayed a comparison of 1996
revenues—budget vs. actual and described each revenue category in detail. The original total revenue
budget was $16,653,040; the total year end actual was $16,410,305, resulting in a $242,735 shortfall.
Mr. Housler displayed and described a comparison of 1996 expenditures by department—budget vs.
actual. He explained that reductions in all departments resulted in expenditures being reduced a total of
$603,592.
Mr. Housler displayed and briefly described a comparison of 1996 revenues and expenses—target vs.
actual. He explained difficulties encountered with automatic postings as a result of the conversion to the
EDEN System resulted in the 1996 beginning cash balance being understated by $26,326. The SnoCom
Mobile Data Project was not completed as anticipated in 1996 nor re -budgeted for 1997; therefore,
expenditures in the Police Department need to be increased by $40,000 for 1997. Also, Washington
Natural Gas contends they are due a refund totaling $78,761 dating back to 1992. A reserve has been set
aside to await the outcome of City Attorney Scott Snyder's review of the refund demand.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 28, 1997
Page 5
COUNCILMEMBER WHITE MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER VAN
HOLLEBEKE TO EXTEND THE DISCUSSION FOR 15 MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED.
Mr. Housler explained that although there was no clear decision how the difference between the 1/4%
Real Estate Excise Tax (BEET) and the annual debt payment would be funded, the Council was advised
the difference would be paid from the General Fund. As monies in the General Funds were limited, debt
payments were paid from the Special Capital Fund #126. This shorted the money necessary to complete
the remodel of the new City Hall. Therefore, Mayor Fahey is requesting this amount be transferred to
the Special Capital Fund #126. In addition, Mayor Fahey is requesting $1,000 for temporary part-time
clerical staff.
Councilmember Petruzzi complimented the Mayor and staff for the excellent job they did this year,
making cuts and sacrifices where necessary.
COUNCILMEMBER PETRUZZI MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MYERS, TO
FUND THE RECOMMENDATIONS AS PRESENTED BY MR. HOUSLER AND MAYOR
FAHEY.
Council President Earling said the Council retreat agenda will include discussion of several major items
that will have long term funding implications. Therefore, the Council will need to analyze any possible
taxes the City has not yet considered as well as money that was moved to other funds in order to
realistically predict issues that can be funded.
MOTION CARRIED.
7. PRESENTATION ON SELF INSURANCE FOR THE HEALTH PLAN
Personnel Manager Brent Hunter explained he had experience with self insurance in a previous
organization and feels it is one of the best ways to control costs and improve benefits. The experts
indicate consumers can expect to see costs of health insurance escalating in the future; the City currently
spends $1.4 million a year for insurance. This presentation will also address LEOFF I benefits. He
explained the Charles Group was highly recommended by other cities who are self insured. At the
conclusion of the presentation, the Council will be asked whether they are interested in moving forward
with the feasibility study to determine if the City is a good risk for self insurance.
Dick Charles, Charles Group, explained his presentation would compare Edmonds to the City of Tukwila
which began self insurance at the end of 1989 and whose results have been positive. When a city self
insures, it hires a stop loss carrier to financially protect the City and a third -party administrator. The
benefits described in the self insurance health plan booklet are basically the same as are offered when the
City is insured through AWC, Washington Physician's Service. It is important to maintain benefit levels,
particularly for union employees and LEOFF I. The self insurance booklet is also updated to include
current providers, etc.
Mr. Charles explained in addition to hiring a pian administrator to handle customer service, financial
reporting, and generally act as the insurance company to the employees, he also recommends the City
purchase three types of excess loss insurance, 1) individual excess loss which protects each member from
large claims, 2) aggregate excess loss, and 3) monthly cash flow accommodation. The expectation is that
claims will be less than the cost of the plan. This could allow the City to set up reserves, such as
Tukwila has done, to 1) protect against claims after the plan terminates, 2) form a wellness committee to
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 28, 1997
Page 6
provide a proactive approach to health, and 3) accumulate reserves for long term care for LEOFF I
retirees.
Mr. Charles displayed Tukwila's financial summary for 1996, noting their fixed rates for operating the
plan have stayed level. He stated Tukwila insures more employees for less money than Edmonds. He
displayed and described Tukwila's actual expenses compared to plan premiums for 1995 and 1966. At
year-end, funds remaining were allocated to reserves, the wellness program, incentives, and LEOFF I
reserves. He explained costs in a self insured plan do increase; however, not as quickly as an insured
plan. Another advantage of self insurance is the rules of coordination of benefits works to the City's
advantage; the administrator aggressively ensures claims are paid in the correct order. He displayed a
summary of budget vs. expenses for LEOFF I retirees for the past five years, noting funds remaining are
placed into reserves to address LEOFF I long term care issues.
Councilmember Myers asked if self insurance can provide equal insurance coverage for the City's
employees with the possibility of less cost to the City and no possibility of added cost to the City. Mr.
Charles answered the exact numbers won't be known until the feasibility study is done. He explained
Tukwila, in their first year, 1990, used 1989 rates and not only saved money but paid a small incentive to
employees with increased benefits. Their rates continue below the AWC rates for a better plan. If the
study determines self insurance is not feasible, the City could consider self insurance for dental and
vision only, although the savings would be less.
Councilmember Van Hollebeke pointed out the employees liked the current plan as they had to do
virtually no work regarding claims. Mr. Charles answered the third party administrators in the area are
very well known; Blue Shield recently purchased the best third party administrator in the State, the same
one Tukwila uses. Blue Cross also purchased a third party administrator; and as result, there are few
problems with administration of claims. He recommended the City use preferred providers as the City is
then able to direct employees to certain providers who guarantee claims will be submitted and also give a
discount to the plan.
Mayor Fahey said staff has expressed concern that using preferred providers will prevent them from
using their current physician. Mr. Charles advised Tukwila's plan began with passive providers; once
Tukwila added a wellness plan which included an annual check-up, employees began using the preferred
providers. Employees may still see their own provider and receive the same benefits; however, if they
go to the preferred provider, the plan receives the discount. He suggested an employee committee be
involved in selecting the preferred providers.
Sue Holt, Charles Group, displayed Edmonds vs. Tukwila rates for 1996. She described slight
differences between the cities such as Tukwila charges the same rate for LEOFF I employees over and
under age 65 (which reflects the risk of a LEOFF I individual as well as Tukwila's goal to realize savings
for long term care), Tukwila pays for Part B Medicare, Edmonds allows LEOFF I employees to cover
dependents and Tukwila does not, and Tukwila has dental coverage for LEOFF I employees, Edmonds
does not. This exhibit illustrated, if Edmonds had been self insured in 1996, a savings of approximately
$140,000 would have been realized.
Ms. Holt displayed the rate comparison for 1997, noting AWC rates increased in 1997. Over a 24 month
period, Edmonds could have saved $250,000 if they had been self insured.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 28, 1997
Page 7
Council President Earling asked why Group Health was less expensive under Edmonds' current plan than
under Tukwila's self insured plan. Ms. Holt answered in 1994 AWC had a substantial discount in Group
Health rates. When Tukwila began self insuring, Group Health held the same rate they had been paying
under AWC and thereafter rates were determined by Tukwila's actual risk. Tukwila's rates also reflect a
higher family participation in Group Health. Until rates are negotiated with Group Health, it is difficult
to determine what the rates would actually be.
Councilmember White asked why Group Health rates were listed and not any other plans. Ms. Holt
answered both cities offer Group Health as an option. Often there is a core group of employees who
want to maintain Group. Health. Mr. Charles noted Edmonds currently only offers WPS and Group
Health. The feasibility study would consider insured alternatives as well as self insurance.
COUNCILMEMBER MYERS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER HAAKENSON, TO
EXTEND DISCUSSION OF THIS ITEM FOR FIVE MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED.
Councilmember Myers asked for clarification of how the feasibility study would be funded. Mr. Hunter
explained the City has a long term disability plan and a life insurance plan that have not been marketed
for a number of years. He recommended the Charles Group be the City's agent of record (taking both
policies into the market to get a competitive price) and also receive the commission fees from marketing
these two plans. The commission fees would be the compensation for the feasibility study.
Councilmember White asked if the commission fees would be equivalent to general market commission
fees. Mr. Hunter answered they would be the same fees paid to any other broker.
Councilmember Nordquist recalled when the Finance Committee heard this presentation, they requested
a report on other companies that could provide this service. He preferred the City have a comparison
company provide information.
Councilmember White asked what time frame was envisioned for completion of the study and
implementation of the plan. Mr. Hunter advised there is no time frame. The feasibility study takes
approximately one month; it would then be up to the City to set a schedule. The City could easily be in a
self insured plan before July 1, 1997 if the Council wishes. The City's AWC plan is a month-to-month
agreement.
Mayor Fahey asked if Councilmember Nordquist wanted another company to give a presentation or
provide a different approach to self insurance. Councilmember Nordquist said he would like to know
more about self insurance and would like to hear another presentation.
Councilmember Van Hollebeke said he has been in the insurance industry for 22 years and is also
licensed to sell the products discussed tonight but is not an expert on self insurance. He was enthusiastic
about the idea; the City has enough employees to justify self insurance and the stop losses would protect
the City against risks. Further, the plan can be designed in whatever way the City chooses; therefore,
employees need not be concerned about losing benefits. Mr. Hunter called him to ask his opinion about
funding the cost of the feasibility study and he agreed the City's long term disability and life insurance
policies could be marketed and the successful agent receive the commission. He did not object to
hearing another presentation but felt basically the same approach would be offered.
Councilmember White pointed out it would be prudent to market the long term disability and life
insurance plans as well as using the commission to pay for the study. He suggested benefits that are
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 28, 1997
Page 8
lacking in the City current policy be evaluated, such as mental health, substance abuse, and naturopathic
care. He also suggested employees be asked what they feel is lacking in the current health plan. He
would not support a plan that restricted whom an employee could see or a plan that cost employees more
and gave them less. He supported the implementation of the feasibility study as soon as possible.
Mr. Charles advised the City learned of their firm by talking with other cities. He agreed some cities
may not have a great first year such as Hoquiam. He recalled Hoquiam is still self insured for dental and
has had a level cost for several years. As soon as the expense of self insurance for Hoquiam was
realized, by reviewing the actual results, their firm lead them back into an insured plan. He explained
their firm can operate as a broker or a consultant and are very experienced in both the private and public
sectors. Their experience with Tukwila has been positive; they have increased the number of employees
in the plan from 130 to 270 and their fee has remained the same.
COUNCILMEMBER EARLING MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER HAAKENSON,
TO MOVE FORWARD WITH A FEASIBILITY STUDY, PROVIDED MR. HUNTER VERIFIES
THE COMMISSIONS ARE MARKET RATE (MEMO TO THE COUNCIL WITHIN A WEEK).
MOTION CARRIED.
8. MAYOR
Mayor Fahey advised she attended the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) meeting on
Friday and received valuable information regarding how to proceed with claims. It appears the City will
be able to recoup the costs associated with addressing the imminent need during the storm. The City is
in the process of determining where damage occurred; a FEMA representative will survey the damaged
areas. The amount of money to repair some damage may be distributed on the basis of need as there is
no guarantee adequate funding will be provided to meet all cities' requests. Further, there are additional
mitigation funds available for proposed projects to prevent future damage.
Mayor Fahey reported she attended a meeting with the Regional Transit Authority (RTA) Board who
provided an excellent update. She advised those who participated in the coordination of the bond were
invited to continue to participate in planning the implementation of the RTA.
Mayor Fahey attended her first Puget Sound Regional Council meeting, which was preceded by a
briefing regarding Intermodal Surface Trans ortation Efficienc Act funding. She noted her
service on this board will be beneficial as the City continues to address funding issues regarding
transportation.
Mayor Fahey advised Snohomish County Tomorrow is beginning to review legislative issues. She is
serving on a legislative committee that is tracking legislative issues of concern to cities so notification
can be sent out immediately when action is necessary. One critical topic is the Legislature's action
regarding property taxes and the detrimental effect a property tax cap would have on cities with limited
revenue streams. She urged the public to inform the Legislature of the effects that a property tax cap
would have on Edmonds.
Mayor Fahey attended a Snohomish County Committee for Improved Transportation (SCCIT) meeting
where a resolution was passed proposing the Legislature implement additional gas taxes as there are not
adequate funds to address necessary road improvements. SCCIT requested citizens who support this
proposal contact the Legislature.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 28, 1997
Page 9
9. INDIVIDUAL COUNCIL REPORTS/UPDATES ON RESPECTIVE BOARD MEETINGS
Council President Earling announced an RTA workshop, to describe the RTA process, will be held on
Thursday, January 30, 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., at Everett Community College. He urged Councilmembers
to attend. The RTA Board is also making presentations to Legislators as well as Congressional
Delegates. They will also go to Washington DC in March to lobby the Federal Transit Authority and
Congress.
Councilmember Petruzzi reported SnoCom/Medic 7 will be working on administration of the Medic 7
program as well as assessing the plan at various intervals during 1997 to determine if changes are
necessary. Further, they are working on assuring that the backbone of a 800 Megahertz system becomes
a reality for South Snohomish County. In addition, the Board will analyze a study regarding the structure
of SnoCom staff, conducted by former Police Chief Tom Miller's firm.
Councilmember Myers announced Councilmember Nordquist was unanimously selected as the Chair of
the Health Board.
Councilmember White advised a recent study indicated there is strong support for a Snohomish County
Cultural Arts Convention Center and Stadium. They will now move forward on a plan to pursue
financial support, etc.
COUNCILMEMBER PETRUZZI MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MYERS, TO
EXTEND THE MEETING FOR FIVE MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED.
Councilmember Haakenson advised, as Councilmember Petruzzi's replacement on the SnoCom/Medic 7
Board, he met with Pat Cordova, the Board's Chair. At the meeting, committee members were divided
into groups to analyze the study conducted by Mr. Miller.
Councilmember Nordquist advised the Health Board is in the process of rebuilding a building that was
severely damaged in the storm. The Health Board is also planning its retreat and observing actions by
the Legislature.
Councilmember Van Hollebeke advised the Disability Board resolved an employee issue to everyone's
satisfaction. The Edmonds Alliance for Economic Development is about to launch a major advertising
and public relations campaign that will be beneficial for the community and move them toward the
direction the Council requested.
Councilmember Myers advised the Disability Board also discussed LEOFF I retirees eligibility for
Medicare which actually reduces their benefits. The Disability Board recommended this be rectified.
Council President Earling advised ten applications have been picked up for the Council position. The
deadline for receipt of the applications is February 6 and applications will be distributed to the Council
on February 7. Interviews will be held February 17 (time to be determined by the number of applications
received) and plans are to make a decision at the February 18 Council meeting so the new
Councilmember can join the Council on their retreat on February 24.
With no further business, Mayor Fahy adjourned the meeting at 10:07 p.m.
BARBARA S. FAHEY, MA OR SANDRA S. CHASE, CITY CLERK
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 28, 1997
Page 10
AGENDA
EDMONDS CITY COUNCIL
- Plaza Meeting Room - Library Building
650 Main Street
7:00 -10:00 p.m.
JANUARY 28, 1997
WORK MEETING
CALL TO ORDER - 7:00 P.M.
FLAG SALUTE
1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
2. CONSENT. AGENDA ITEMS
(A) ROLL CALL
(B) APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF JANUARY 21, 1997
(C) APPROVAL OF CLAIM WARRANTS #12240 THRU #15153 FOR THE WEEK OF JANUARY 20, 1997, IN
THE AMOUNT OF $169,868.31
(D) ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF CLAIM FOR DAMAGES FROM ROBERT G. AND ALLISON A.
MORRISON ($1,073.12)
(E) PROPOSED ORDINANCE REZONING CERTAIN REAL PROPERTY GENERALLY LOCATED AT
STEVEN'S MEMORIAL HOSPITAL FROM "RM 2.4" AND "CG 2" TO "MU", MEDICAL USE ZONE
(F) AUTHORIZATION FOR MAYOR TO SIGN CONTRACT FOR VICTIM ADVOCACY SERVICES WITH
CENTER FOR BATTERED WOMEN
(G) AUTHORIZATION TO PURCHASE EQUIPMENT TO MODIFY THE INCINERATOR FEED PUMP AT THE
TREATMENT PLANT FROM SCHWING AMERICA ($30,008)
(H) PROPOSED RESOLUTION COMMENDING COUNCILMEMBER THOMAS J. PETRUZZI
3. (45 Min.) RECOGNITION OF COUNCILMEMBER THOMAS J. PETRUZZI'S SERVICE TO THE CITY OF
EDMONDS
4. (15 Min.) REPORT ON JANUARY 14, 1997, COUNCIL COMMITTEE MEETINGS
5. (20 Min.) PRESENTATION ON THE ANNUAL WORK PLAN OF THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
6. (15 Min.) REPORT ON GENERAL FUND FINANCIAL POSITION FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996
7. (40 Min.) PRESENTATION ON SELF INSURANCE FOR THE HEALTH PLAN
8. (5 Min.) MAYOR
9. (15 Min.) INDIVIDUAL COUNCIL REPORTS/UPDATES ON RESPECTIVE BOARD MEETINGS
Parking and meeting rooms are accessible for persons with disabilities. Contact the City Clerk at 771-0245 with 24 hours advance notice far special
accommodations. The Council Agenda appears on Chambers Cable, Channel 32. Delayed telecast of this meeting appears the following Wednesday,
Friday and Monday at noon on Channel 32.
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