02/22/2000 City Council1
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EDMONDS CITY COUNCIL APPROVED MINUTES
'FEBRUARY 22, 2000
Following a Special Meeting at 6:45 p.m. for the City Council to meet with Appointees to the Library
Board and Civil Service Commission, the Edmonds City Council meeting was called to order at 7:00
p.m. by Mayor Haakenson in the Library Plaza Room, 650 Main Street. The meeting was opened with
the flag salute.
ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT
Gary Haakenson, Mayor
Thomas A. Miller, Council President
Dave Earling, Councilmember
Michael Plunkett, Councilmember
Jim White, Councilmember
Lora Petso, Councilmember
Dave Orvis, Councilmember
Christopher Davis, Councilmember
ALSO PRESENT
Maia Krause, Student Representative
1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
STAFF PRESENT
Ray Miller, Development Services Director
Peggy Hetzler, Administrative Services Director
Jeff Wilson, Senior Planner.
Arvilla Ohlde, Parks and Recreation Director
Brent Hunter, Human Resources Director
Scott Snyder, City Attorney
Jana Spellman, Senior Executive Council Asst.
Sandy Chase, City Clerk
Jeannie Dines, Recorder
COUNCIL PRESIDENT MILLER MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PLUNKETT,
TO ADD CONFIRMATION OF CANDIDATES TO BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS TO THE
AGENDA AS ITEM 3A. MOTION CARRIED.
COUNCILMEMBER ORVIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PLUNKETT, TO
APPROVE THE AGENDA AS AMENDED. MOTION CARRIED.
2. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
Councilmember Orvis requested Item B be removed from the Consent Agenda. Councilmember Petso
requested Item H be removed.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT MILLER MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PLUNKETT,
FOR APPROVAL OF THE BALANCE OF THE CONSENT AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED. The
agenda items approved are as follows:
(A) ROLL CALL
(C) APPROVAL OF CLAIM WARRANTS #39076 THROUGH #39231 FOR THE WEEK OF
FEBRUARY 14, 2000, IN THE AMOUNT OF $459,023.11. APPROVAL OF PAYROLL
WARRANTS #27608 THROUGH #27708 FOR THE PERIOD FEBRUARY 1 THROUGH
FEBRUARY 15, 2000, IN THE AMOUNT OF $440,847.06.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
February 22, 2000
Page 1
Claim for
Damages
(D)
ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF CLAIM FOR DAMAGES FROM SCOTT A. BLAIR
($500,000.00)
urchase
(E)
REPORT ON QUOTES AND AUTHORIZATION TO PURCHASE AN AIRLESS WALK
oadway
BEHIND ROADWAY STRIPER ($4,756.68)
Stri er
Position
(F)
APPROVAL OF POSITION RECLASSIFICATIONS FOR CITY CLERK AND
Reclass. I
ACCOUNTING MANAGER
risoner
(G)
AUTHORIZATION TO SIGN AMENDMENT TO PRISONER DETENTION
Detention
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF LYNNWOOD AND THE CITY OF EDMONDS
Agreement
POLICE DEPARTMENT
Item B: Approval
of City Council Meeting Minutes of February 15, 2000
Councilmember Orvis requested the February 15, 2000 minutes be revised to reflect that he (rather than
Councilmember Davis) voted against the motion for approval of Consent Agenda Item N on page 2.
Approve COUNCILMEMBER ORVIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER DAVIS, FOR
/15 APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEM B AS AMENDED. MOTION CARRIED. The item
Minutes as approved is as follows:
Amended
(B) APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 15, 2000
Item H: Resolution No. 977 Authorizing Circulation of 60 Percent Petitions in the Sundquist
Annexation Area
Councilmember Petso advised she would abstain from the vote as she had not participated in the prior
eso #977 two discussions.
Sundquist
Annexation
60% Petition Councilmember Earling explained he had a. telephone call subsequent to the annexation hearing from
Phil Assink who requested the Council consider withdrawing the condition requiring assumption of the
bonded indebtedness. Councilmember Earling said he had not had an opportunity to discuss this with the
Council and after further consideration, decided the requirement to assume the bonded indebtedness
should be included in the annexation. He commented the City has made exceptions to that requirement
-in the past but over the history of annexations, the City has, for the most part, always requested areas
assume the bonded indebtedness.
COUNCILMEMBER EARLING MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PLUNKETT
FOR APPROVAL OF AGENDA ITEM H. MOTION CARRIED, COUNCILMEMBER PETSO
ABSTAINED. The agenda items approved is as follows:
(I) RESOLUTION NO. 977 AUTHORIZING CIRCULATION OF 60 PERCENT PETITIONS
IN THE SUNDQUIST ANNEXATION AREA
3. AUDIENCE COMMENTS
revenue i Al Rutledge, 7101 Lake Ballinger Way, Edmonds, said at the February Finance Committee meeting, it
was said the $300,000 in unanticipated revenue would not be spent. The Finance Committee Chair then
announced at the next Council meeting that the funds would be added to the General Fund. He
encouraged the Council to watch how those funds' were spent. Mr. Rutledge requested an update on the
Public Safety Complex, and advised there was a rumor that a court case was coming up.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
February 22, 2000
Page 2
Roger Hertrich, 1020 Puget Drive, Edmonds, referred to Agenda Item #7, publication of the City
lgndas Council and Planning Board agendas, pointing out the publication that was done for tonight's meeting
resulted in a good turnout, something that should happen at all .meetings. He said there has not been any
public response on some items the Council considered since publication was eliminated. He said without
public scrutiny, democracy did not work well. He endorsed funding for publication of City Council and
Planning Board meetings and suggested funds .provided to the Edmonds Alliance for Economic
Development be utilized to fund publication of agendas, a practice that was more important to the
general public than giving money to the Alliance. He summarized public funds should be spent for the
public's benefit.
3A. CONFIRMATION OF CANDIDATES FOR BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
Council President Miller advised the Council interviewed two candidates prior to tonight's meeting.
Confirm
ppoint-
entsto COUNCIL PRESIDENT,MILLER MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PLUNKETT,
Civil TO CONFIRM THE APPOINTMENT OF RICHARD MARIN TO THE CIVIL -SERVICE
Service COMMISSION AND BARBARA CHASE TO THE LIBRARY BOARD. MOTION CARRIED.
comm. &
Library
oard Mayor Haakenson recognized Mr. Marin and Ms. Chase in the audience and thanked them for their
willingness to serve.
[Recognition 4. RECOGNITION OF RETIRING BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS MEMBERS (1999)
f Retiring
Boards & Mayor Haakenson said the community is blessed to have citizens who give their time to volunteer on the
V3' City's boards and commissions. He said 14 members of the City's boards and commissions retired at the
end of 1999 and one, Steve Sullivan, has agreed to continue serving into 2000. He said this was an
opportunity to thank these volunteers for their dedication and many hours of service to the community.
Mayor Haakenson advised plaques would be presented to the following retiring boardmembers and
commissioners (who were not present):
Don Baaken — 2 -year term on the Planning Board
Gary Grayson — 6 -year term on the Planning Board
Ruth Becker — 2 -year term on the Sister City Commission
Carol Pidduck — 3 -year term on the Civil Service Commission
Sandra Mehl — 2 -year term on the Sister City Commission
Dr. Ellen Kahan — 2 year term on the Sister City Commission
Debbie Onihi — 2 year term on the Sister City Commission
Mayor Haakenson presented a plaque to Al Huff in recognition of his four years of service on the Sister
City Commission. Mayor Haakenson presented a plaque to Valerie Cole - Kelley in recognition of three
years on the Sister City Commission.
Mayor Haakenson presented a plaque to Darlene McLellan in recognition of her four years of service on
the Arts Commission. Ms. McLellan advised she was now the President of the Edmonds Arts Festival
Foundation. Councilmembers congratulated Ms. McLellan for her service.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
February 22, 2000
Page 3
Mayor Haakenson presented a plaque to Jeff Oaklief in recognition of six years of service on the
Architectural Design Board. Mayor Haakenson presented a plaque to Cami Smith's husband (in her
absence) for her two years of service on the Arts Commission.
Mayor Haakenson presented a plaque to Steve Sullivan in recognition of eight years of service on the
Architectural Design Board. Mayor Haakenson concluded by presenting a plaque to Peggy Olson in
recognition of ten years of service on the. Library Board, pointing out this was the longest anyone being
honored tonight has served. Councilmembers congratulated each retiring boardmember /commissioner.
Mayor Haakenson thanked each boardmember /commissioner on behalf of Edmonds citizens and the
Council.
5. PUBLIC HEARING FOR COMMENT ON TRANSFER OF EDMONDS CABLE COMPANY
Transfer of OWNERSHIP TO AT &T CORP.. ICI CABLEVISION OF WASHINGTON, INC., AND
able TV ADOPTION OF PROPOSED RESOLUTION APPROVING THE TRANSFER OF CONTROL OF
Franchise THE CABLE TELEVISION FRANCHISE
Mayor Haakenson clarified Edmonds Cable was perhaps better known in the City as Chambers Cable.
City Attorney Scott Snyder advised the City's franchise agreement with Edmonds Cable provides for its
transfer following review by the City Council. He pointed out the City's ability to regulate cable
companies as a franchisee was far more restricted than for a number of other franchises and the City has
no regulatory authority over cable rates or programming. The City did have the ability to ensure the
safety of the rights -of -way and to ensure the facilities that are within the City's rights -of -way are
appropriately maintained. The City may charge the franchisee certain reasonable costs to review the
franchise. Accordingly, the City engaged Lon Hurd, 3 -H Cable Communications Consultants, to review
the transfer proposal. The Council packet includes Mr. Hurd's report to the Council as well as responses
by the transferee, TCl/Edmonds. On review, the City can consider whether the transferee has the legal
right to operate the system. Mr. Hurd's report states the company was properly formed and has the legal
capability to do so under the laws of the State. TCI and AT &T are financially capable of operating the
system. Their technical expertise was reviewed and evaluated by Mr. Hurd in the report. Based on Mr.
Hurd's report and the City Attorney's review, staff recommends approval.
Mr. Snyder commented during the time the cable company has been in operation, the, City has never
conducted an audit of the collection of franchise fees and other taxes the City charges. He clarified the
City was not singling out this company, and described a class action suit the City was involved in: the
statewide McGuire litigation regarding AT &T's attachment of City :franchise fees and B &O taxes to
AT &T telephone operations based on consumers' zip codes which, although they roughly approximate
city boundaries; are not precise. AT &T had brought cities into the suit in an attempt to figure this out.
Mr. Snyder said the resolution prepared for Council consideration provides for transfer but does not
serve as a release for Edmonds Cable Company or. other party of interest or guarantor.
Councilmember Orvis asked the cost of such an audit. Mr. Snyder advised staff was currently
conducting an initial review to determine if there was a basis for conducting an audit. He said the
franchise documents allow reasonable costs to be borne by the franchisee.
Lester Blume, 19026 Olympic View Drive, Edmonds, commented Chambers Cable never really
provided great service, now service would be provided by AT &T. He questioned why a representative
from AT &T was not present to advise how the system would be improved to allow computers to run
faster and provide better television viewing. He referred to recent changes in regulations that allow
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
February 22, 2000
Page 4
1
satellite dish providers to offer local channels. He questioned if this would result in numerous ,satellite
dishes in the City or if the City could control the cost of cable television to ensure it was competitive. He
stressed property owners want to have the best service possible and hoped that would be made available
by AT &T.
Mr. Snyder responded one of the questions raised by Mr. Blume regarding service was asked by the
City's consultant. AT &T's response provides information regarding consumer information and
response. He reiterated neither Washington State nor the City Council had the ability to regulate rates or
control prices in any way. The consultant asked if there would be any changes in Edmonds' rates based
upon the transfer and AT&T's response was there would not be any channel changes and offered "its
assurance it will continue to comply fully with FCC regulations regarding cable service rates and
increases thereto." Mr. Snyder clarified this meant AT &T could raise rates in the future.
Hearing no further public comment, Mayor Haakenson closed the public participation portion of the
public hearing.
In response to Mayor Haakenson, Edmonds Cable representative Jack Gradwohl indicated an AT &T
representative was not present. Mayor Haakenson remanded the matter to Council for deliberation.
Reso #978
Transfer of COUNCILMEMBER EARLING MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER WHITE, TO
Cable TV
Franchise ADOPT RESOLUTION #978: APPROVING THE TRANSFER OF CONTROL OF THE CABLE
TELEVISION FRANCHISE TO TCI CABLEVISION OF WASHINGTON (AT &T). MOTION
CARRIED.
knding cy 6. PUBLIC MEETING TO CONSIDER PUBLIC COMMENT ON LIBRARY SERVICES FUNDING
ces OPTIONS INCLUDING: annexing nto the SnoIsle.Re Regional Library System, seeking voter a royal
� g Y Y g kl? ns of a property tax lid lift to fund services through contract with SnoIsle Regional Library System,
reducing hours of library operation to lower costs, establishing library non - resident user fees to
offset property tax impact, and operating the library as a department of the City,
Administrative Services Director Peggy Hetzler said she would provide an historical overview that
would explain why the library service was being considered this early in the budget year. She explained
when I -695 passed last year, the City lost $1.4 million in the form of MVET taxes and sales tax
equalization, a major impact to the City's General Fund. Further, I -695 froze revenues at the rate
established for 2000, meaning property.tax and EMS levies are frozen at 2000 rates. The City researched
the impact this will have on the General Fund over the next three years and what budget reductions may
be necessary as well as other funding and revenue alternatives.
Ms. Hetzler explained that to balance the 2000 budget, a number of new revenues were adopted as well
as $1 million in budget reductions made throughout the General Fund. She displayed a chart illustrating
the General Fund outlook for 2000 — 2003, which assumes property tax revenues were still frozen as well
as illustrating expenditure growth for those years. She explained many of the City's expenditures have
inflationary components that are fixed by contract such as collective bargaining contracts that require a
certain increase and contracts with outside agencies such as SnoIsle, Medic 7 and SnoCom that require
an increase. The chart illustrated a trend of revenues increasing at a 2% rate, expenditures increasing at a
5% rate and possible reductions that may be necessary to keep the budget in balance and to not totally
exhaust the ending cash balance. She pointed out as much as $2.4 million in reductions to the General
Fund would be necessary over the next three years.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
February 22, 2000
Page 5
Ms. Hetzler displayed a pie chart illustrating the percentages of General Fund services such as 26% for
police services, 18% for fire, 18% for non - departmental which includes expenditures that do not apply to
other areas such as library service, Medic 7, City Attorney, etc. She stressed the $1 million in budget
reductions made to balance the 2000 budget came uniformly from all departments with the exception of
non - departmental.
Ms. Hetzler explained staff had a series of meetings with the Long Range Financial Task Force who
decided to review the City's contractual obligations to determine if there were ways to reduce those
obligations or find another funding mechanisms. She displayed the 2000 non - departmental budget,
explaining the library service was the largest portion of the non - departmental expenditures and that was
the reason the library funding was being considered this early. , .
Ms. Hetzler reviewed the options identified by the Long Range Financial Task Force, 1) determining the
impact of the City annexing into the SnoIsle Library System, 2) the City's financial outlook if the City
chose to continue funding the library via a contract with SnoIsle using a dedicated City property tax
(levy lid lift), and 3) the cost for the City to assume full responsibility for the library and operate it as a
City department. She displayed a matrix of the three options, explaining under the first option, SnoIsle
was currently .capped at $0.50 per $1,000 of assessed valuation and must assess that amount for any
jurisdiction that annexes into their district. SnoIsle's operating costs for the Edmonds library are
approximately $1.4 million; a $0.50 per $1,000 of assessed valuation levy would generate approximately
$1.6 million.
Under the second option, contracting with SnoIsle with funding provided via a special Levy Lid Lift,
operating costs would be approximately $1 million plus the City's building maintenance costs $56,380
for a total required revenue of approximately $1.1 million. The impact on the property owner for a
Special Levy Lid would be approximately $0.34 per $1,000 of assessed valuation, versus the SnoIsle rate
of $0.50 per $1,000. Under the third option, the City purchasing the library inventory from SnoIsle and
operating the library as a department, staff considered the cost of operating the library via contacting
other cities who operate their own library and obtaining a cost per capita for operating costs. Operating
costs of $1.4 million, plus maintenance costs of $56,380 would require a total revenue of $1.4 million
which would result in a property tax rate of $0.44 per $1,000 of assessed valuation. She explained the
major drawback to the .third alternative was the City would be required to purchase all the publications
and resource materials as they are presently the property of the SnoIsle district.
Ms. Hetzler said staff was also asked to explore the imposition of a non - resident user fee. She discussed
this with SnoIsle who currently has a non - resident user fee in place. Since most cities as well as
Snohomish County are part of the SnoIsle District, the non - resident user fee only generates
approximately $3,000 per year and therefore would not be a viable option. She explained staff was also
asked to consider the impact of different operating hours for the library such as eliminating Sunday
.service or reducing weekend hours. SnoIsle indicated this would not have an impact on their contract
with the City and thus was also determined not to be a viable option.
Ms. Hetzler displayed a chart illustrating the General Fund Outlook for 2000 -2003 without the expense
of the library contract (assuming there was a new revenue source or an annexation occurred). She
explained although expenditure reductions would still be necessary in other areas of the City, the
magnitude of those expenditure reductions would be greatly reduced. The $2.4 million in expenditure
reductions that would be required if the City continued to fund the library via the General Fund would be
reduced to approximately $1 million.. She summarized this type of reduction would be much more
manageable /attainable within the standard services the City provides.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
February 22, 2000
Page 6
Councilmember Orvis inquired about the cost of an election in November versus a.special election. Ms.
Hetzler answered the cost would not be less than $40,000 and it could be as high as $70,000.
Councilmember Orvis asked whether a special levy lid, approved by the voters, could be "locked" into
exclusively funding the library. Ms. Hetzler answered her conversations with the City's Bond Counsel,
Lee Vorhees, indicated the City. could structure the property tax ordinance to require it be dedicated for
that purpose. The ballot issue would then state that the property tax lid lift was dedicated for that sole
purpose. Councilmember Orvis clarified if the voters chose to do this, only the voters could choose to
undo it: Ms. Hetzler agreed.
Councilmember Davis asked if the dedicated levy lid lift would have a life or if it would be determined
by what was presented to the voters. Ms. Hetzler said it could be structured to have a limited life or be
an ongoing, permanent levy lid lift.
Councilmember Plunkett pointed out an election in November would be adding onto the ballot that
would already be taking place in November. Ms. Hetzler answered it was difficult to estimate the exact
cost as the State's formula for determining how costs are allocated to each jurisdiction is based on the
number of ballot measures and other components. She said $40,000 was likely a safe estimate.
Councilmember Plunkett asked if $40,000 was for the entire ballot or above what the City would be
charged for the election. Ms. Hetzler answered that would be the total ballot cost. Councilmember
Plunkett asked what the levy lid portion of the ballot would be. Ms. Hetzler answered she could seek an
estimate from the Auditor's Office.
Councilmember Petso asked if the hardship provision in the SnoIsle contract for cities experiencing a
financial hardship and allowing a temporary reduction in the library fee up to 18 months had been
explored. Ms. Hetzler answered no.
Councilmember Petso asked how much would be generated by a voter approved 3% .property tax
increase. Ms. Hetzler answered approximately $210,000. Councilmember Petso asked the revenue
impact of City employees agreeing to the same salary in 2001 as they were paid in 2000. Ms. Hetzler
answered approximately $500,000.
Mayor Haakenson opened the public participation portion of the public hearing.
Mary Proudfoot, 804 Laurel Way, Edmonds, referred to the options eliminated, by Ms. Hetzler, the
reduced, hours and establishing a non - resident user fee, and said the City operating the library as a
department also should be eliminated as it seemed relatively silly. Between annexing into the SnoIsle
Library District and seeking voter approval for a levy lid lift, she preferred the tax lid lift as it funded the
library at a level that would retain services at their existing level and reduce the impact on the public.
She suggested the Council consider establishing a library foundation that would accept donations from
those who wish to support the library to partially fund library operating costs. She said an example was
the Nature Conservancy who raises funds to purchase land. She stressed the need to consider other
funding options besides taxes and governmental funding and urged citizens to consider how to contribute
to this process directly.
George Rapole, 600 6'h Avenue N, Edmonds, said he could not imagine living in a city that did not
have a library. As a senior citizen, the library was a valuable resource and was a necessary part of a
city's services, just as vital in many ways as fire, police, water and other services that citizens expect a
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
February 22, 2000
Page 7
city to provide. He said few would deny the importance of library services, particularly since libraries
are no longer just books but provide tapes, CDs, videos, computer services, etc. He agreed with Ms.
Proudfoot's proposal to establish a foundation. He hoped the City would seek voter approval and
stressed the need for the City to inform the public regarding what they would be voting for or against.
He said it was important residents knew what they would get for that small sum.
Jim Yeast, 611 Alder Street, Edmonds, commented that before making the library a City department,
he urged the Council to consider the way students are handled with care at the library by experienced
librarians. He said information available from the web could not take the place of a book in hand. He
urged the Council to carefully consider how they vote as their decision was not just for this year but ten
years in the future.
Robert Freeman, 622 7 'h Avenue S, Edmonds, speaking as the President of the Edmonds Library
Board, said the .City ordinances that define the Board charge it with keeping the management of the
library and conduct of the SnoIsle library under constant review. The Board does that frequently,
meeting with the management of SnoIsle, and the Board is pleased with the operation of the library, and
its management by SnoIsle. The Board believes the library is a great asset to the City that makes the
City a special place. He said management by SnoIsle provides economies of scale that would not be
realized if the City attempted to manage the library itself. He indicated he was also a boardmember of a
newly created organization, the SnoIsle Library. Foundation, an organization that would allow donations
to be made and funds could be designated for specific purposes such as to aid the Edmonds library.
Speaking as an ardent library user and taxpayer, he felt a user fee would be a good way of financing
government services and could work for the library. If this was adopted, the library would be open to all,
free of charge, but residents of Edmonds who wish to borrow from the library would pay a fee of $50-
$75 per year. He said the statistics from SnoIsle library indicate there are approximately 1.9,000 library
borrowers who are Edmonds residents. If half paid $50 per year, it would generate $475,000 per year to
support the library. The City could then identify funds from other sources to fund the remainder of the
library contract.
Roger Hertrich, 1020 Puget Drive, Edmonds, offered a thank you to Councilmember Petso for the
action that allowed citizens to be here tonight,. commenting if it was not for her reconsideration and
Council agreement, the City would likely be on a. different track. He questioned the response by SnoIsle
that reduced hours would have no affect, pointing out no dollar values. had been provided. He urged the
City to get more facts regarding the costs to operate the library and the impacts of a reduction in hours of
operation, how much of the basic equipment the City is paying for, and how much of the associated costs
are being paid for by the City. He pointed out it was difficult for the City to make a decision without
those numbers. He agreed with the option of reducing the library hours and said everyone had to share
the pain created as a result of I -695. He urged the City to explore other funding sources, including the
suggestion made by Mr. Freeman regarding user fees. He suggested the City examine further the pros
and cons of annexing to SnoIsle, including how much more it would cost or save the City. He disagreed
with operating the library as a department of the City and supported reducing library hours, establishing
fees where logical and identifying other funding sources once the cost of operation is determined such as
excess funds identified in the budget recently. He said these items combined may provide the City time
to further evaluate the situation.
Lester Blume, 19026 Olympic View Drive, Edmonds, said the Snohomish County Assessor's office
indicated as a result of reassessment, Edmonds assessed valuation increased from $2.8 billion in 1999 to
$3.213 billion in 2000. He said property taxes collected by Snohomish County were distributed between
cities and towns; ports, roads, libraries, parks and recreation, etc. In 1999, $518,025,057 was distributed
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
February 22, 2000
Page 8
and $554,000,000 distributed in 2000. He said libraries receive 121% of those funds. He explained
Mayor Haakenson indicated the moneys, the City collects for the library was a pass - through. 'He pointed
out none of the audience members felt the library was not essential. He said SnoIsle is 4% under budget
and will be requesting a 3% increase this year.
Ellen Ernst, 702 7`h Avenue S, Edmonds, thanked the Council for getting to the point where citizens
had an opportunity to talk about the library. She agreed everyone loved the library, she and her children
use the library weekly and said the librarians have helped them on numerous projects. She said people
go to the library for many different reasons, some of which have nothing to do with the library, perhaps
just fora clean, well lighted place, and every community needed to have a place like that. She was glad
the discussion was not regarding doing away with the library. She questioned what would happen if the
special levy. lid or annexation failed. She recalled being assured after the January 4 meeting that closing
the library was not an option. As other options have been eliminated such as the City operating the
library, only the levy lid lift and annexation remain. She urged the Council to discuss other ways to fund
the library from within the budget rather than wait. until November in the event the ballot issue did not
pass.
Martha Thayer, 1035 Daley Street, Edmonds, speaking as a parent, as a librarian with King County,
and a citizen, reiterated Ms. Ernest's comment that a public discussion had not taken place regarding
what would happen if the levy lid lift or annexation were not approved. She commented there were
communities in Bellevue who did not have library service as they voted out of the King County library
district and are not allowed a King County library card although most of them can afford to buy their
books and their own computers. Regarding fees, she felt the library was a public place and fees should
not be charged to use the library, particularly for residents. She pointed out there were those for whom a
$50 fee would be a hardship, and likely were the people who must use the library's computer for internet
access, homework, or just to come in out of the rain and it was not fair to discriminate against them.
Regarding a reduction in hours, she said King County was very well funded and when SnoIsle or Seattle
Public Library reduces their hours, Shoreline, Bothell, etc. libraries are impacted. King County Library's
busiest days in the summer are the days SnoIsle is closed. She said the busiest day of the week for most
libraries is Sunday.
Ken Nichols - Hoppe, 23710 80 'h Lane W, Edmonds, reiterated the concern over what would happen if
the levy lid lift or annexation were not approved. He said having other options or mechanisms in place
to explore other options would be advisable prior to a vote. He explained as a member of SnoIsle,
patrons can access a larger system; if the City operated the library as a department, he was concerned
that option may not be available. He said reducing the library's operating hours would have a large
impact on those with school age children and he preferred the hours remain as they are or even be
expanded slightly. He urged the City not to institute user fees as those on fixed or lower incomes might
find themselves opting not to use the library and discouraging the use of the library conflicted with the
idea of having a public library. Although a great deal of information was available over the internet, he
said his family still uses the library a lot and the librarians offer a great deal of assistance: He said the
internet and library services were two very separate issues.
Al Rutledge, 7101 Lake Ballinger Way, Edmonds, said residents could submit a petition to,stop a levy
lid lift and requested the City identify other methods of funding the library.
Art Kirschenbaum, 700 8"' Avenue S, Edmonds, said he was a citizen, past president of the Friends of
the Edmonds Library, and. currently on the Snolsle Regional Library Board. His remarks were basically
as a private citizen and his interpretation of policies. He said in a time of fiscal shortfall, insofar as
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
February 22, 2000
Page 9
possible, all parties should take a hit that is proportionate to its amount in the budget, and libraries should
not get off "free" nor take a disproportionate hit. He said although the library was 24% of non -
departmental expenditure, it was 4 -5% of the total City budget. Regarding what happened if annexation
failed, by tradition when an annexation vote failed, the library would. be out and could not come back via
an individual contract (as occurred with Mukilteo). Regarding the SnoIsle Library System surplus, they
were aware funding may be difficult in future years and were saving the surplus for those years. He said
the City did not have the right to sell user cards as that right belonged to SnoIsle. Further the library
hours were negotiated in the SnoIsle Library contract.
Beverly Neff, 926 Alder Street, Edmonds, said there has always been a library in Edmonds, that was
sacred. She hoped if a levy lid lift was necessary and was determined to be the best way, that would be
the funding method used. She objected to a user fee as she felt it would impact those who may not be
able to pay. She said the library appeared to be an easy mark in the budget and asked if other services
were considered for funding via a ballot measure such as the police or fire departments.
John Pryor, 515 Homeland Drive, Edmonds, objected to the Council identifying one budget line item .
and determining this was where $800,000 could be made up. He questioned why this was done, whether
Councilmembers did not use the library often or that it was an easy place to identify funds. He said
7,000 people use the library. He said the Council's action. was jeopardizing the library's existence in the
City, pointing out the difficulty passing property taxes or any other increases in the State recently as
indicated by I -695. He pointed out the library expenditure was 4.5% of the General Fund, police 26 %,
fire 18 %, administrative services 8 %, parks and recreation 8 %, and development services 10 %. He said
if a funding method was placed on the ballot and did not pass, the City would not have a library. He
stressed he had never lived in a town without a library, no matter how small the town and could not
imagine living in a town without a library. He said people moving to the City would be dismayed at the
lack of a library and property values could drop. He urged the Council to go to the library and find out
what it does; the Council would never find the library empty or see people who were not making good
use of their time.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT MILLER MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER DAVIS, TO
EXTEND THE PUBLIC HEARING FOR 15 MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED.
Robert Freeman said if the City adopted user fees, everyone would know how much they would pay. If
a levy lid lift was adopted, the rates would increase when the assessment on their property increased.
Elaine Yard, 9209 Olympic View Drive, Edmonds, expressed concern with user fees for the City
library, pointing out this would limit the availability of educational materials to many citizens. She
agreed the City needed to explore all options including examining a more refined plan before a decision
was made.
Mayor Haakenson closed the audience participation portion of the hearing, indicating the Council would
deliberate before allowing audience members to comment a second time.
Councilmember Earling recalled some Friends of the Library asked what they could do to assist the
Council /City. He suggested audience members provide their names /addresses to the City Clerk so the
Friends of the Library could inform them of future meetings.
Councilmember Plunkett asked if battalion chiefs were cut from the Fire Department. Ms. Hetzler
answered yes. Councilmember Plunkett asked if an additional police offieer was not hired due to budget
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
February 22, 2000
Page 10
P
cuts. Ms. Hetzler answered Police Chief Hickok left two police officer positions unfilled.
Councilmember Plunkett asked if $1 million was cut from the proposed budget. Ms. Hetzler answered
yes.
Councilmember Plunkett asked whether the City would still have a library if a levy lid lift was chosen as
the funding option and the ballot measured failed. Ms. Hetzler answered the City would still be in the
existing library contract.
Councilmember Plunkett recalled a few audience members inferred the City could lose the library based
on the Council's action. He asked if she had made any proposal tonight to cut the library. Ms. Hetzler
answered no. Councilmember Plunkett asked if any Councilmember had proposed cutting out the
library. Ms. Hetzler answered no.
Councilmember Petso referred to Mr. Blume's revenue projections and asked if the City's property tax
base would increase from $2.8 billion to $3.2 billion. Ms. Hetzler agreed that did occur.
Councilmember Petso asked if this was considered in the projected budget. Ms. Hetzler said in the State .
of Washington, property taxes could only increase a maximum of 6 %; even if assessed values doubled,
the property tax revenue would not increase more than 6 %. Councilmember Petso observed 6% would
provide approximately $400,000 over previous revenue projects. Ms. Hetzler agreed.
Councilmember Petso asked. if the City could accept contributions to the library. Ms. Hetzler answered
the City could receipt the money and dedicate it to library purposes but she was uncertain if it would
have tax deductible status.
Councilmember Petso asked if the City had considered other ballot measures or a general assistance levy
lift. Ms. Hetzler said there has been some discussion regarding a. public safety levy lid lift. She
explained there were infinite ways a property tax levy. lid lift could be structured. The library was _a
logical expense to be funded via a levy lid lift because the cost increases over a number of years could be
identified with reasonable certainty, making establishing the levy rate a much simpler process. She
referred to a comment made by an audience member that the levy lid lift amount would increase with
property assessment increases, explaining under I -695, a properly tax levy established to generate $1
million, at a cost of $0.34 per $1,000, would remain the same regardless of the property's assessment.
Councilmember Davis pointed out the option to change the hours of service or make other alterations in
the contract was no longer available due to the current contract. Ms. Hetzler agreed.
Councilmember Earling expressed his appreciation for citizens attending tonight's meeting. He
summarized issues raised included examining whether a foundation might be beneficial, examining the
potential of user fees, requesting the budget for operating. the Edmonds library, and developing a fallback
option if a funding option was placed on the ballot and failed. He requested Ms. Hetzler request a line-
item breakdown of the budget to operate the Edmonds library. He pointed out the Council would be
developing. a strategy in the event a ballot measure failed. He suggested this issue be returned to the
Long Range Financial Task Force to pursue the suggestions made tonight and a recommendation made to
the Council in the future. He invited the public, to attend the Long Range Financial Task Force's next
meeting on Wednesday, March 1, likely on the 3rd Floor of City Hall.
Council President Miller said suggested funding methods identified tonight were user fees, government
assistance lid, levy lid, and library lift. He agreed the hardship option in the SnoIsle contract should be
explored, recognizing that was a short-term solution. He explained due to the potential of I -695 and
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
February 22, 2000
Page 11
subsequent passage, the Council made cuts in all departments and are now trying to determine the best
method of funding the library contract with SnoIsle. He stressed the City would continue to have a
library regardless of whether a levy lid lift or other method of funding the library contract was passed,
both because the City had a library contract and because the City wanted a library. He said this may
result in another $1 million in cuts to services throughout the General Fund including more cuts in
police, fire, parks and recreation, etc. For this reason, he.requested the Long Range Financial Task Force
meet with the Mayor's, cabinet next week to examine potential cuts, as a contingency plan if another
method of funding the library could not be identified other than the General Fund.
Ms. Hetzler reiterated a levy lid lift would be established at a set amount and would not fluctuate each
year based upon assessed valuation changes. Under I -695, once a property tax levy was assessed, it was
fixed at that amount.
Council President Miller suggested the public participation portion of the meeting be reopened in the
event audience members had additional comments based on Council deliberation.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT MILLER MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER DAVIS, TO
EXTEND THIS ITEM FOR TEN MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED.
Mayor Haakenson said it was clear from the audience's previous comments that they wanted.a library
and it was clear from the Council's comments that they also wanted a library.
Lester Blume said the assessed valuation of Lynnwood ($2.212 billion) was less than Edmonds'
assessed valuation. He said Edmonds was richer than Lynnwood and although Lynnwood had more
business, Edmonds had better homes and a better tax base than Lynnwood. He said it may be necessary
for citizens of Edmonds to support a library ballot measure. Councilmember Earling pointed out
Lynnwood's population was 6,000 less than Edmonds, therefore there were 'likely fewer residents and
fewer parcels to assess.
Roger Hertrich pointed out there were many interested, well - informed people in the audience. He
suggested the City establish a panel of Council. and citizens to work on this issue.
Al Rutledge pointed out the potential for a ballot issue in November to rebate taxes to June 30 as well as
a ferry funding ballot issue. He felt it was a bad idea for the City to place a library funding option on the
ballot in November, as there were too many other funding issues on the ballot.
Hearing no further public comment, Mayor Haakenson closed the audience participation portion of the
public hearing.
Mayor Haakenson explained this matter would be directed to the Long Range Financial Task Force for
further deliberation. He stressed if the library contract remained funded through the General Fund, staff
would be required to cut $1 million in services from the General Fund. He said moving funding of the
General Fund to another funding source did not mean the library went away but it would free up $1
million for other services in the City. He said if $1 million must be cut from the budget, the cuts in.
police, fire, parks and recreation, and the layoffs totaling $800,000 in salaries that the Council discussed
at the end of 1999 would come to fruition. He said Councilmembers may be considered the bad guys for
making budget cuts but I -695 forced cuts to be made. He said cuts would affect all citizens in one way
or another if not from the library standpoint, from police or fire or another service provided by the City.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
February 22, 2000
Page 12
If the library was funded via a different source in the General Fund, there would still need to be $350,000
in cuts each year for the next 3 -4 years which would still affect citizens in some way.
Mayor Haakenson observed the newspapers indicate elected officials were trying to punish the voters for
I -695 and stressed none of the Council was trying to punish voters but they must deal with,the problem
the reduction in funding presented. He said any assistance citizens could provide the .Council would be
appreciated and the public was welcome to attend and offer any suggestion$ at the Long Range Financial
Task Force meeting.
Mayor Haakenson declared a brief recess
Publication 7. DISCUSSION REGARDING PUBLICATION OF THE CITY COUNCIL AND PLANNING
of Council BOARD AGENDAS.
Planning
Board City Clerk Sandy Chase explained for many years the City published City Council and Planning Board
Agendas agendas as a display ad in The Herald. She said although this was not legally required, it was done to
provide greater accessibility to the agendas by the public. During the budget process when the need to
make cuts to the budget arose and because this was not a legal requirement, a determination was made to
eliminate it from the budget. Due to comments she as well as the Council received from the public, it
was suggested the Council reconsider this item. She said the cost savings of eliminating publication was
approximately $14,000; if publication was reinstated at this time, the cost would be slightly over
$11,000.
Councilmember Earling said the Council has over a long period of time, made an effort to communicate
with the public and the cut made when assembling the budget was a wise decision at the time. Based on
feedback from the community, he urged the Council to restore publication of City Council and Planning
Board agendas in The Herald for the balance of the year.
COUNCILMEMBER EARLING MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PLUNKETT TO
REINSTITUTE THE PRACTICE OF PUBLICATION OF CITY COUNCIL AND PLANNING
BOARD AGENDAS IN THE HERALD WITH THE APPROXIMATE AMOUNT OF $11,850 TO
FUND THIS FOR THE BALANCE OF THE YEAR TAKEN FROM THE COUNCIL
CONTINGENCY FUND.
Councilmember White recalled when budget discussions were instituted in anticipation of I -695 and
subsequent to I -695, numerous cuts were considered by the Council. He expressed concern that items
most noticeable to the public were the items that may take priority in the budget versus the employee
who works in the treatment plant and provides a vital service. He pointed out this was $14,000 for
publication of agendas; the City publishes agendas in five other ways (on the City's web page, on cable,
and posted at City Hall, the library and the public safety building) in addition to mailing notices to any
citizen who requests. He questioned whether this expenditure should be subject to reconsideration by the
Council just because it was prominent versus a behind- the -scene expenditure that may have significantly
more long -range impact on the public. Although this may not necessarily apply for this public
notification item, he urged the Council to keep this in mind as the City continues to receive complaints
regarding cuts that the Council previously decided were appropriate and prudent.
MOTION CARRIED.
8. MAYOR'S REPORT
Mayor Haakenson had no report.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
February 22, 2000
Page 13
9. INDIVIDUAL COUNCIL REPORTS/UPDATES ON RESPECTIVE BOARD MEETINGS
Special Council President Miller advised the first Council meeting n March had been moved from Tuesday,
Council g Y�
Meeting, March 7 to Monday, March 6 due to the Republican and Democrat caucuses being held on Tuesday,
Monday, March 7. The Council meeting would be held in Council Chambers. Council President Miller thanked
March 6 Councilmember White for acting as Council President Pro Tem in his absence last week.
[Resources uman Councilmember Orvis reported the Comprehensive Human Resources Committee approved a
reclassification for City Clerk Sandy Chase. He said when he was running for election last year, he
ommittee heard many comments about City' employees and heard only nice things about Ms. Chase. He thanked
her for making the City look good. Councilmember Orvis said the Human Resources Committee also
broadened the Building Inspector's job description to provide more flexibility. Human Resources
Director Brent Hunter would be hiring a replacement for a City employee who was retiring and would
earic attem t to hire at a lower a rate. He reported the Health District Board was considering a new
District p pay p g
regulation that would require signs on public swimming areas. He said this may cost the City one and
possibly two grants. He requested the Council provide feedback on posting signs on Puget Sound
beaches.
Fliiance for Councilmember Plunkett said there has been discussion at the Edmonds Alliance for Economic
Economic Development regarding improving advertising for merchants not on Main Street via kiosks. The
Develop - Alliance formed a task force with members from the Arts Commission to develop ideas, designs and
ent
proposals for 1 -4 kiosks in downtown. He said ideas likely would be developed within six months.
ommumty Councilmember Earling said the public continues to express concern . regarding cuts in Community
ransit Transit service. He said the elimination of 30% of their funding via the reduction in MVET resulted in
the elimination of all weekend service as well as 11 routes and .numerous headways. He said Pierce
Transit had a 14% reduction in their routes and Metro King County made 10 -14% cuts in their routes.
He said the hardest part was that the cuts were being made in two stages and if funding was not identified
within the next year, cuts would be more severe. He said he has spent time in Olympia in an attempt to
influence the outcome of a transportation package, a combination .of relief to transportation agencies,
funding of highway projects, funding ferries, and providing relief to freight and mobility issues that
plague the three county area.
Councilmember Davis thanked Puget Sound Christian College and the Enterprise for sponsoring an
excellent concert by the Air Force band.
Snohomish Councilmember White reported the next Snohomish County Tomorrow meeting on February 23 would
county I include discussion regarding the process for establishing the municipal urban growth area boundaries
omorrow within Snohomish County urban growth areas. He said this was an increasing important issue in light of
recent discussions regarding infill development and annexation of unincorporated areas. He encouraged
those with an interest in urban growth to attend the meeting. He said the Long Range Financial Task
Long Range Force meeting addressed options for funding the library funding and would continue those discussions at
Financial I the March 1 meeting as well as establish an agenda for the currently known long -range financial impacts
ask Force to the City.
With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 9:10 p.m.
GARY 0 AKENSON, MAYOR
x:d�lJ. zlf �
SANDRA S. CHASE, CITY CLERK
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
February 22, 2000
Page 14
I
AGENDA
EDMONDS CITY COUNCIL
Plaza Meeting Room - Library Building
650 Main Street
7:00 -10:00 p.m.
FEBRUARY 22, 2000
SPECIAL MEETING
6:45 P.M. — INTRODUCTION OF NEW LIBRARY BOARD AND CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION MEMBERS
7:00 P.M. - CALL TO ORDER
FLAG SALUTE
1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
2. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
(A) ROLL CALL
(B) APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 15, 2000
(C) APPROVAL OF CLAIM WARRANTS #39076 THROUGH #39231 FOR THE WEEK OF FEBRUARY 14, 2000,
IN THE AMOUNT OF $459,023.11. APPROVAL OF PAYROLL WARRANTS #27608 THROUGH #27708 FOR
THE PERIOD FEBRUARY 1 THROUGH FEBRUARY 15, 2000, IN THE AMOUNT OF $440,847.06.
(D) ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF CLAIM FOR DAMAGES FROM SCOTT A. BLAIR ($500,000.00)
(E) REPORT ON QUOTES AND AUTHORIZATION TO PURCHASE AN AIRLESS WALK BEHIND ROADWAY
STRIPER ($4,756.68)
(F) APPROVAL OF POSITION RECLASSIFICATIONS FOR CITY CLERK AND ACCOUNTING MANAGER
(G) AUTHORIZATION TO SIGN AMENDMENT TO PRISONER DETENTION AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY
OF LYNNWOOD AND THE CITY OF EDMONDS POLICE DEPARTMENT
(H) PROPOSED RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING CIRCULATION OF 60 PERCENT PETITIONS IN THE
SUNDQUIST ANNEXATION AREA
3. AUDIENCE COMMENTS (3 Minute Limit Per Person)
4. (10 Min.) RECOGNITION OF RETIRING BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS MEMBERS (1999)
5. (30 Min.) PUBLIC HEARING FOR COMMENT ON TRANSFER OF EDMONDS CABLE COMPANY OWNERSHIP TO
AT &T CORP., TCI CABLEVISION OF WASHINGTON, INC., AND ADOPTION OF PROPOSED RESOLUTION
APPROVING THE TRANSFER OF CONTROL OF THE CABLE TELEVISION FRANCHISE
6. (45 Min.) PUBLIC MEETING TO CONSIDER PUBLIC COMMENT ON LIBRARY SERVICES FUNDING OPTIONS
INCLUDING:
• Annexing into the Sno Isle Regional Library System.
• Seeking voter approval of a property tax lid lift to fund services through contract with Sno Isle
Regional Library System.
• Reducing hours of Library operation to lower costs.
• Establishing Library non - resident user fees to offset property tax impact.
• Operating the Library as a department of the City.
Page 1 of 2
CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
FEBRUARY 22, 2000
Page 2 of 2
7. (10 Min.) DISCUSSION REGARDING PUBLICATION OF THE CITY COUNCIL AND PLANNING BOARD AGENDAS
8. (5 Min.) MAYOR'S.REPORT
9. (15 Min.) INDIVIDUAL COUNCIL REPORTS /UPDATES ON RESPECTIVE BOARD MEETINGS
larking and meeting rooms are accessible for persons with disabilities. Contact the City Clerk at (425) 771 -0245 with 24 hours advance
totice for special accommodations. The Council Agenda. appears on Chambers Cable, Channel 46. Delayed telecast of this meeting appear,
he following Wednesday at noon`and 7: 00 p.m., as well as Friday and Monday at noon on Channel 46.