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03/23/1999 City CouncilEDMONDS CITY COUNCIL APPROVED MINUTES MARCH 23, 1999 isiomng Prior to the Council meeting, a special meeting was held for a presentation on the Community Visioning resentation process. Mayor Fahey explained the purpose was to introduce the consultants, Doyle Hyett and Dolores Palma, HyettPlama, to the community and have them explain what has been done in other communities. Ms. Palma gave a slide presentation illustrating trends and successes in other downtowns, a townhouse infill development that includes parking, and a conversion of a torpedo factory. She explained the former mantra for downtown revitalization, "if we build it, they will come" (if the city builds public and streetscape improvements, investors /customers would flock to downtown) is no longer appropriate and downtown revitalization cannot stop there. She said the trend now is to begin with economic development rather than public improvements. She displayed before and after photographs of downtown improvements in other cities including amending zoning to eliminate undesirable building uses and economic development analysis to retain existing businesses and recruit new businesses. Ms. Palma explained the theory, "if we have it, they will come" which means offering mixed uses in downtown by providing dining, shopping, arts, and services. She explained the importance of new downtown anchors and displayed examples of anchor uses in other cities such as art galleries, entertainment, libraries, brew pubs, coffee shops, cyber cafes, public buildings, part -time attractions, fountains, and incorporating the city's history. She displayed examples of housing as a downtown anchor and food and specialty businesses as draws for a downtown. She explained the concept of "spenders count," which requires a downtown have the 3 P's -- product, place, and pitch (market) to attract the buying public. She described the tools that are necessary to revitalize a downtown including vision, market analysis, enhancement strategy, course of action, partnership to implement the strategy, and funding for implementation. Ms. Palma displayed photographs of a townhouse development in Alexandria, Virginia that was constructed between two historical buildings with two -level parking underground. She displayed photographs and described a torpedo factory (where torpedoes were manufactured during W.W.II) that was converted into three levels of art studios where artists work, show and sell their art. Mayor Fahey explained this was an opportunity for residents to see what has been done in other communities and explain the tools that will be needed. She invited citizens to participate in the visioning process on March 24 at the Edmonds Theater from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. She urged citizens to provide input regarding what they want to see happen in Edmonds in the 21" century to create the economic base to keep the community healthy and viable in the future. Mayor Fahey declared a brief recess and indicated the Council would reconvene at 7:00 p.m. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 23, 1999 Page 1 Following a Special Meeting at 6:00 p.m. for a presentation on the Community Visioning Process, the Edmonds City Council meeting was called to order at 7:02 p.m. by Mayor Barbara Fahey in the Library Plaza Room, 650 Main Street. The meeting was opened with the flag salute. ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT STAFF PRESENT Barbara Fahey, Mayor Ron Haworth, Interim Fire Chief Gary Haakenson, Council President Kevin Taylor, Assistant Fire Chief Dave Earling, Councilmember Robin Hickok, Police Chief John Nordquist, Councilmember John Westfall, Fire Marshal Michael Plunkett, Councilmember Paul Mar, Community Services Director Jim White, Councilmember Ray Miller, Development Services Director Dick Van Hollebeke, Councilmember Peggy Hetzler, Administrative Services Director Thomas A. Miller, Councilmember James Walker, City Engineer Arvilla Ohlde, Parks and Recreation Director Brent Hunter, Human Resources Director Jana Spellman, Sr. Executive Council Assistant Scott Snyder, City Attorney Sherrie Ringstad, Deputy City Clerk Jeannie Dines, Recorder 1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Mayor Fahey requested "Consideration of Temporary Removal of 3 -Hour Parking Limit on Admiral Way to Accommodate Port's Construction Project" be added to the agenda. COUNCIL PRESIDENT HAAKEN SON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PLUNKETT, TO ADD CONSIDERATION OF TEMPORARY REMOVAL OF 3 -HOUR PARKING LIMIT ON ADMIRAL WAY TO ACCOMMODATE PORT'S CONSTRUCTION PROJECT AS AGENDA ITEM 6A. MOTION CARRIED. COUNCILMEMBER VAN HOLLEBEKE MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER NORDQUIST, FOR APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA AS AMENDED. MOTION CARRIED. 2. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS COUNCILMEMBER VAN HOLLEBEKE MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER NORDQUIST, FOR APPROVAL OF THE CONSENT AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED. The agenda items approved are as follows: (A) ROLL CALL Approve /16/99 (B) APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF MARCH 16, 1999 inutes Approve (C) APPROVAL OF CLAIM WARRANTS #23631 THROUGH #23748 FOR THE PERIOD Claim MARCH 1 THROUGH MARCH 15,1999, IN THE AMOUNT OF $456,363.39 Warrants laim for (D) ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF CLAIM FOR DAMAGES FROM JOYCE DEARDEN Damages ($781.01) Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 23, 1999 Page 2 3. PRESENTATION OF COMMUNITY GRANT AWARDS Presentation Councilmember Earling, Chair of the Finance Committee, and Councilmember Miller, member of the of commu- Finance Committee made the presentation of Community Grant Awards. Councilmember Earling ity Grant Awards explained last year the Council began making grant requests available to the community to assist groups in the City, South Snohomish County, and North King County. He explained the Finance Committee reviewed 18 grant requests totaling $90,000 and selected 7 recipients totaling $15,000. He stressed it was a difficult decision because all the organizations are worthy. He said the grants are a good mix of art and benefits to the seniors and children in the community. Councilmember Earling presented a community grant award to Brian Rockholt, Cascade Symphony in the amount of $2,500, noting the Symphony has been in the community for over 30 years and is a high quality organization that is continuously expanding their high quality musical performances. Mr. Rockholt said they are excited that things are happening in Edmonds including the visioning process and look forward to participating in it. Councilmember Miller presented a community grant award to Josephine Fye, Edmonds in Bloom. On behalf of the Edmonds in Bloom Board, Ms. Fye thanked the Council for the grant and assured it will be used to promote Edmonds as not only the friendliest town but also the most beautiful. Councilmember Earling presented a community grant award to Dan Kennedy, Edmonds Police Foundation, in the amount of $1,000 for the project they requested. Councilmember Earling thanked the Edmonds Police Foundation for the work they do in the community. On behalf of the Dive Team, Mr. Kennedy thanked the City for the $1,000 grant, which will be used to purchase underwater communication gear. Councilmember Miller presented a community grant award to Michael Smith of the Fine Arts Center of Edmonds who is working to address art issues in the community. Michael Smith was honored to accept the grant and, on behalf of the board, thanked the City for their support. He explained the funds will be used wisely to assist with fund raising and building community support. He said the Fine Arts Center will bring more arts to the area and will benefit the community socially, culturally, and via economic development. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 23, 1999 Page 3 REPORT ON GENERAL FUND FINANCIAL POSITION FOR THE PERIOD ENDED FEBRUARY 28, 1999 r(E) (F) ACCEPTANCE OF DONATION AND APPROVAL OF PROSPECTUS TO SEEK ARTIST FOR THE 5TH AND MAIN ROUNDABOUT PUBLIC ART PROJECT ommumty rant Award (G) APPROVAL OF COMMUNITY GRANT AWARDS Salary (H) APPROVAL OF SALARY UPGRADE FOR WATER/SEWER SUPERVISOR, Upgrade WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT MANAGER, AND WASTEWATER WTP TREATMENT PLANT SUPERVISOR ids WWTP (I) AUTHORIZATION TO CALL FOR BIDS FOR TREATMENT PLANT CHEMICALS Chemicals Public (3) AUTHORIZE MAYOR TO SIGN PUBLIC BENEFIT AGREEMENT WITH OPEN BIBLE Benefit Agmt CHURCH 3. PRESENTATION OF COMMUNITY GRANT AWARDS Presentation Councilmember Earling, Chair of the Finance Committee, and Councilmember Miller, member of the of commu- Finance Committee made the presentation of Community Grant Awards. Councilmember Earling ity Grant Awards explained last year the Council began making grant requests available to the community to assist groups in the City, South Snohomish County, and North King County. He explained the Finance Committee reviewed 18 grant requests totaling $90,000 and selected 7 recipients totaling $15,000. He stressed it was a difficult decision because all the organizations are worthy. He said the grants are a good mix of art and benefits to the seniors and children in the community. Councilmember Earling presented a community grant award to Brian Rockholt, Cascade Symphony in the amount of $2,500, noting the Symphony has been in the community for over 30 years and is a high quality organization that is continuously expanding their high quality musical performances. Mr. Rockholt said they are excited that things are happening in Edmonds including the visioning process and look forward to participating in it. Councilmember Miller presented a community grant award to Josephine Fye, Edmonds in Bloom. On behalf of the Edmonds in Bloom Board, Ms. Fye thanked the Council for the grant and assured it will be used to promote Edmonds as not only the friendliest town but also the most beautiful. Councilmember Earling presented a community grant award to Dan Kennedy, Edmonds Police Foundation, in the amount of $1,000 for the project they requested. Councilmember Earling thanked the Edmonds Police Foundation for the work they do in the community. On behalf of the Dive Team, Mr. Kennedy thanked the City for the $1,000 grant, which will be used to purchase underwater communication gear. Councilmember Miller presented a community grant award to Michael Smith of the Fine Arts Center of Edmonds who is working to address art issues in the community. Michael Smith was honored to accept the grant and, on behalf of the board, thanked the City for their support. He explained the funds will be used wisely to assist with fund raising and building community support. He said the Fine Arts Center will bring more arts to the area and will benefit the community socially, culturally, and via economic development. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 23, 1999 Page 3 Councilmember Earling presented a community grant award to Dan Lyon, Pacific Little League. Councilmernber Earling said a large number of Edmonds youth participate in Pacific Little League, which is staffed primarily by volunteers. This grant request will assist with improvements to their main facility in Lynnwood, which has also been identified as an important regional park. Lynnwood has already donated a substantial amount to this project. He said Pacific Little League would also like to do some work on fields in Edmonds. Mr. Lyons explained Pacific Little League serves 750 youth in the area, approximately 70% reside in Edmonds. He said this was a partnership between Lynnwood, Edmonds, the community, and businesses who sponsor teams. Councilmember Miller presented a community grant award to Mary Van Meter, Save the Log Cabin. Ms. Van Meter thanked the City and the community for their support and said the restoration project is on its way. Councilmember Earling presented a community grant award to the South County Senior Center in the amount of $2,500. Kathleen Spiro, Senior Center Director, thanked the City for the grant for this important project. Ray Olson, Chair of the South County Senior Center Long Range Planning Committee, described the options developed as a result of their study and said developing a new facility was determined to be the best option. In order to assist the Senior Center in moving toward the next step, a feasibility study, he committed $1,000 to the fund. Mayor Fahey congratulated the recipients, agreeing it was difficult to determine which organizations to grant the awards to. She said volunteers in Edmonds bring about ..great. things in the community and urged citizens to become involved in one of these groups and /or the projects they are undertaking. She wished each organization the best of luck with their project. 4. REPORT ON DUE DILIGENCE PROCESS FOR THE PROPOSED UNDERGROUND PARKING GARAGE R n Community Services Director Paul Mar explained this was an informational presentation to answer the und questions the Council directed to staff at the February 16 meeting. The questions raised at the February 16 meeting are as follows: Feasibility: Has it been proven that this is the best location for this garage? Mr. Mar explained the answer to this question will come from the appraisal study to be performed by Property Counselors. The report will be completed in early April and will be presented to Council on April 6 or April 20. Has a traffic impact analysis been done for this garage? Mr. Mar explained the Engineering Division has performed an updated traffic study. This study concludes that there will be negligible impact due to the parking garage. Has the Police Department commented on any security concerns related to the garage location? Mr. Mar answered the Police Department provided input to the Public Safety Committee on February 9. Once the Council gives a positive decision on the project, the Police Department will assign one person to be part of the design team so all safety concerns will be resolved during the design process. i Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 23, 1999 Page 4 Costs: How firm are the construction cost numbers? Mr. Mar recalled when the due diligence efforts were presented to the Council, there were two consultant efforts, one for the appraisal and one to consider the feasibility and confirm the construction costs. After the results of phase 1 (appraisal study) and concurrence from the Council are received, staff will engage a consultant to determine the construction costs of the garage, considering the feasibility of a site - specific solution. Have maintenance, operating and enforcement costs been projected? Mr. Mar answered not specifically for this garage. However, staff has considered comparables including discussion with developers of parking garages in Seattle. Assuming this is a public garage with no attendants, entry gate, or fees, the estimated annual cost of a 100 -car structured parking garage is $5,000 - $10,000. This is primarily for maintenance, clean -up, repairs and utilities. LID: Is it the intent of the LID to set a fixed dollar amount of annual contribution say the 20% as proposed? Mr. Mar said the answer to this question is dependent on the outcome of the phase one appraisal effort, wherein the assessment will be based on the specific benefits the property owners will receive. Financing: In lieu assumptions: The in -lieu parking's annual contribution of $33,000 is a concern. Who is responsible for the $33,000, or portion thereof, if the in- lieu -of- parking cannot meet this amount annually? Is it the City's responsibility? What happens to the in- lieu- of- parking.contribution .after the fifth year? How long has the in- lieu -of- parking fund been in place? Has it been used for anything? Mr. Mar referred to the table in the Council packet illustrating the actual ending cash balance for Fund 124 Off - Street Parking between 1992 and 1998 and an estimate of the fund balance in 1999 (assuming the $80,000 is spent for due diligence) and said staff also considered projects currently proposed. He recalled a request that was made in August 1998 to fund 14 parking spaces for a project on the corner of 3rd and Dayton (former Quintana Roo site) which the Council denied. The developer of that project is reconsidering their plans for the site and staff is unaware if they will request in- lieu -of- parking. There are five other projects in the building permit process, one may request three parking spaces from the in- lieu -of- parking fund, which could generate $24,000 (using the $8,000 per space fee) in 1999 if the permit is granted. There are several other projects in the Architectural Design review process but insufficient information is available to determine whether they will request in- lieu -of- parking. As more information becomes available, staff will inform the Council. Mr. Mar explained the parking garage proposal included three funding sources, 1) a discretionary commitment from the Puget Sound Christian College and the Edmonds Community College Foundation, the LID (which will be a required commitment from the beneficiaries as determined by the appraisal study), and 3) the in- lieu -of- parking fund. If the in- lieu -of- parking revenues do not materialize in a particular year, either the reserve from Fund 124 or other City funds will be necessary to cover that amount. Has the $14,500 annual contribution from the two colleges (Puget Sound Christian College and Edmonds Community College Foundation) been ascertained? Mr. Mar said staff has met with both entities and letters of commitment are being drafted, which will be presented to the Council at the April meeting. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 23, 1999 Page 5 Process/Implementation: Are we required to hold a public hearing on the garage? Mr. Mar said City Attorney Scott Snyder indicated at the January 26 meeting that a public hearing will be required. What is the drop dead date for starting construction on the garage? Mr. Mar said the garage is independent of the Public Safety complex, and no change orders will be necessary to the existing contract. However, it is important to have a decision soon enough so that a deductive change order can be requested from the current Public Safety contractor to eliminate the landscaping and surface parking after the public safety buildings are completed. Councilmember Plunkett recalled the original assumption of funds from the in- lieu -of- parking was $33,000 and it now appears they are estimated to be $10,000 annually. Mr. Mar said the analysis considers the funds historically generated by in- lieu -of- parking and projects that amount out. However, considering building permits currently on file and discussion with staff regarding those projects, there is a distinct possibility that three in- lieu -of- parking spaces will be requested this year, totaling $24,000 ($8,000 per stall). The $33,000 projected by the proponents was based on history and anticipating the same amount would be generated as well as interest on the account over five years. For Councilmember Plunkett, Mr. Mar explained Police Department and Fire Department representatives will be members of the design team and a Fire Marshal /Fire Inspector will be reviewing the plans to ensure they comply with all City codes. Councilmember Plunkett observed the Fire Department was not specifically mentioned in the process. Mr. Mar said the question raised was with regard to the Police Department; he would be happy to indicate a Fire Department representative would also be part of the design team. Councilmember Van Hollebeke recalled in the original proposal made by the property owners, it was anticipated approximately 20% of the cost of the project would be paid by the LID. However it appears the amount the property owners will pay via the LID will be in proportion to the amount the appraiser determines is the enhanced value to those properties; therefore, the 20% figure may be incorrect. Mr. Mar agreed, stating the amount paid via the LID could not be ascertained until the phase 1 appraisal study was complete. City Attorney Scott Snyder said the amount cannot be more than the enhanced value but the Council can cap it; if the Council wants to honor 20% and the appraisal supports 20% or more, it would be within the Council's legislative discretion to set the amount at 20 %. If the appraisal of the enhanced value is less than 20 %, the property owners will be limited to that amount. Councilmember Earling asked what information and answers will be provided at the April meeting. Mr. Mar answered if there is more information on the questions that have been raised, that information will be provided. Further, a presentation on the phase 1 appraisal results will be provided. The information provided will allow the Council to determine the aggregate value of the special benefit for this project, a percentage of the total cost. The Council can use that information to determine whether to take the next step. The letters of commitment from Puget Sound Christian College and Edmonds Community College Foundation will also be available at that time. Councilmember Earling asked when the projected cost of the project will be determined. Mr. Mar answered the cost of the garage is estimated at $1.5 - $2 million. He said discussions with the architect for the Public Safety project, who is familiar with the site, as well as with other developers of underground parking garages, indicates this is a fairly accurate figure. However, the cost of the project needs to be determined before moving forward on the project. Councilmember Earling requested one of the architects who is familiar with the site attend the April meeting as a resource. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 23, 1999 Page 6 Councilmember Nordquist asked when the benefit area would be defined. Mr. Mar answered the phase 1 appraisal would not show the specific benefit by property but will identify the benefit area. Mr. Snyder said the Council can initiate the LID process by petition or resolution. If the Council establishes a resolution, it will state the boundaries of the district, the estimated special assessment as well as estimates of the special assessment roll. At the initial public hearing, properties within the benefit district will be informed of its limits and their possible assessment. Mayor Fahey requested staff clarify fluctuation in the interest earnings in the Fund 124 Off - Street Parking cash balance (Exhibit 2). Mr. Mar agreed to work with Administrative Services Director Peggy Hetzler to clarify these amounts. 5. UPDATE ON CHAMBERS CABLE Update on Community Services Director Paul Mar explained in 1996 the City renewed the franchise agreement hambers with Chambers Cable for providing cable service in the City's service area. The three -year time frame able for rebuilding the system is approaching, the actual date is April 26, 1999. Tonight's presentation will address the system rebuild as well as concerns that have arisen as a result of telephone calls to the City regarding rate increases, basic cable service, and how programmatic changes will be implemented in the future. Mr. Mar introduced Bob Towey, Vice President, Chambers Cable, and Jack Gradwohl, Area Manager. Jack Gradwohl, Area Manager, Chambers Cable, 190 West Dayton, Ste. 201, Edmonds said the rebuild is complete as installation of the head -end, fiber optical, coaxial cable, amplifiers, taps, etc. has been completed. Regarding the recent rate increase, he explained the new basic service has 72 channels, an increase of 29 channels, for $31.95 per month and the per channel cost has actually been reduced. The basic service is still available on every television in a home with no additional outlet fees. They have also introduced the Cable Assistance Program (CAP) which is based on a model of the Washington State Telephone Assistance Program. Customers who qualify for that program can receive Chambers' discounted rate by bringing in their telephone bill to Chambers Cable. This freezes the old rate at the previous level ($24.70) through October 2000. Mr. Gradwohl responded to concerns regarding requests for basic service, pointing out their promise to the City was that the channel capacity of their cable system would be dramatically improved. With the increased channel capacity, they were faced with the challenge of creating a new basic line -up that would fulfill the many programming requests from customers while still providing excellent value. Customer research, including several focus groups, led them to believe a large selection of cable services was the answer. Unfortunately, they cannot customize their service packages to satisfy each customer. He stressed they have worked diligently to create a cable service that addresses the express concerns and desires of customers as a whole and they are confident that the programming available on their new line- up provides an excellent value ($0.52 per channel per month). Regarding how Chambers Cable will address citizen requests for program changes once the system is rebuilt, Mr. Gradwohl responded there is ample room within the analog and digital portions of the system to add additional channels. When plans are made to add more channels, specific customer requests will be considered to determine what programming customers may feel is missing. Mr. Gradwohl explained approximately 3,000 customers have been physically transferred to the new cable system, they are Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 23, 1999 Page 7 transferring approximately 750 customers per week. They are seeking additional manpower to increase transfers to 1,500 per week. Councilmember Van Hollebeke asked when the final hook -ups will be completed, noting residents are frustrated because they have been promised a date that is not delivered. Mr. Gradwohl answered there are approximately 9,000 active customers in the City of Edmonds; approximately 1/3 have been transferred, leaving approximately 6,000 remaining to be transferred. If 1,500 can be done per week, the final hook- up will be completed in six weeks. Councilmember Van Hollebeke observed this would exceed the contractual date of April 26, 1999. Mr. Gradwohl answered construction of the cable system in the right - of -way is complete, the physical transfer of the subscriber drops may extend beyond April 26, 1999. Councilmember Van Hollebeke recalled Chambers Cable's original presentation addressed the ability to hook -up to enhanced modems and asked when that would occur. Mr. Gradwohl said the cable modems currently available are proprietary modems —if a customer moves, the modem cannot be used in another cable system. The standards have just recently been released and two manufacturers are making cable modems. He expected to launch that program in June or July 1999. Councilmember Van Hollebeke observed some residents do not want the expanded service provided on basic cable and were satisfied with the previous service and rate. Mr. Gradwohl advised residents could call Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) at 1400 -543 -9909, answer a questionnaire to determine if they receive any cash -based assistance from DSHS and if the customer qualifies, they would be eligible for a flat fee on their basic telephone service. A customer then -only has to provide a copy of their telephone bill indicating they qualify for that program and Chambers Cable will offer them their Cable Assistance Program. Councilmember Van Hollebeke observed residents may need to reprogram their television sets to obtain the additional channels once they have been transferred to the new cable system. He asked if there was assistance available from Chambers Cable. Mr. Gradwohl said Chambers will try to troubleshoot this over the phone but recommends residents read their owner's manual or bring it to the Chambers office for assistance. If additional assistance is necessary, a technician can come to a resident's home; the charge is %s hour minimum ($18.00) to program a customer's television. Councilmember Plunkett asked how a customer knows when they have the new service. Mr. Gradwohl said as customers are transferred to the new cable system; they receive a door hanger. The list of transfers are then put into the new billing system and a letter sent notifying of the transfer, the need to reprogram their television, what channels to look for, and a new channel line -up. Councilmember Plunkett said residents have expressed concern with the patchwork appearance of the new blacktop in the area where the cable installation has been done. Mr. Gradwohl said the blacktop will fade but it will always be somewhat noticeable. He said they are working with the City to determine how best to approach streets that have recently been overlaid. He noted they have paid disruption fees as required by the City. Councilmember Plunkett said there are some areas where the new blacktop is sinking and /or chipping. Mr. Gradwohl said those may be temporary patches that need to settle before the final paving is done. If a final paving has not been done, residents can call Chambers Cable and a project manager will inspect it. Council President Haakenson read from the franchise agreement, "the operator shall complete the upgrading of the cable television system to a minimum of 70 channels capacity no later than 36 months Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 23, 1999 Page 8 from the effective date of the franchise agreement plus ten days" (April 26, 1999). He requested Chambers Cable provide an update on April 27, the day after the upgrade is to be completed. Mr. Gradwohl agreed. Mayor Fahey clarified if an individual meets the criteria established by DSHS, they qualify for a reduced rate for basic service. She asked if these residents would still receive the same number of channels in their basic service. Mr. Gradwohl answered yes, the number of channels does not change, the residents that qualify would receive a reduced rate on the same basic cable service package. For Mayor Fahey, Mr. Gradwohl explained the basic service is 72 channels; in addition, customers have the option of three premium channels on the analog service without a converter box. There is also a digital tier with 56 channels (40 music channels and 16 channels of video programming) that has not yet been launched. In addition to that, customer can subscribe to Pay- Per -View and Video -On -Demand service. Mayor Fahey said there are many residents who do not qualify for the reduced rate under the criteria established by DSHS but are living on a restricted income and do not want the extended basic service that is now provided. Mayor Fahey asked Mr. Gradwohl to explain why a limited package is not available. Mr. Gradwohl answered their research indicated customers wanted a lot of channels. The easiest, best way to meet customer demand as a whole was to do it the way that has been done. He stressed in this way, no converter box is required and the service is available to every outlet in the home. He realized they would not be able to meet everyone's needs but attempted to. provide what the majority of customers were seeking —ease of operation and lots more channels. Mayor Fahey asked if there would be Public Education and Government (PEG) channels. Mr. Gradwohl answered there are 7 PEG channels, although only three will be activated immediately. Mayor Fahey said once everything is in place, the Council meetings may air in the evening. Mayor Fahey observed the Video -On- Demand service was not automatically available in every home. Mr. Gradwohl explained Video -On -Demand service requires installation and a converter box, a monthly fee, and a per movie fee. Council President Haakenson observed the Council has received numerous letters and telephone calls asking the Council to do something about the price of the service. Council President Haakenson asked Mr. Gradwohl to indicate what control the Council has over the price of cable service. Mr. Gradwohl answered none, all federal regulations regarding basic service expire March 31, 1999. Due to the size of Chambers Cable, they have been exempt from regulation since the 1996 Cable Act. Council President Haakenson observed Chambers Cable could set the rate at whatever they chose. Mr. Gradwohl answered Chambers Cable feels the rate is very competitive within the marketplace and the service offered is an excellent value. Mayor Fahey observed the City also does not have any input or control over the programming on the cable system and it is not within the purview of the contract to define what channels would be carried. Mr. Gradwohl agreed the City has no ability to determine specific programming. Mr. Snyder said part of the franchising process was a determination of public need; within that process the City could have determined the need for particular cultural programming. The City's review did not indicate this type of need existed; therefore, the Council has no regulatory authority over programming. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 23, 1999 Page 9 Mayor Fahey explained the passage of the Telecommunications Act several years ago included deregulation of the cable industry, which took away a number of the controls for cities that were in place previously. This issue continues to be discussed by the National League of Cities and Conference of Mayors because cities are continually inundated with questions regarding why cities enter into contracts for provision of service and why cities do not control costs. She stressed the City can franchise with any company that wants to provide the service. Usually only one organization is interested in providing the service because it is not cost effective for several companies to compete due to the need for infrastructure. The City cannot restrict who provides cable service but can offer the opportunity to any company who wishes to provide the service. She said additional information is available on the City's web site or by mail. 6. DISCUSSION REGARDING THE FIRE CHIEF POSITION Discussion Mayor Fahey explained the Council recently determined it would not pursue consolidation at this time Fire Chief and should move forward with the process of hiring a permanent Fire Chief. The City has had an interim Position Fire Chief since Michael Springer retired last year. Fire Chief Ron Haworth, a retired Fire Chief from Fire District 10 filled the interim position during the past year. She acknowledged he has done a wonderful job as Fire Chief and assisting the City through the process of determining whether to consolidate fire service as well as providing input into the numerous decisions regarding fire services during the past year. Once a decision was made to move forward with hiring a Fire Chief, Chief Haworth suggested the Council consider the possibility of contracting for services on a longer term basis or entering into a professional services agreement with a firm that provides these services as an alternate to hiring a full -time Fire Chief. Mayor Fahey said she felt it was important to bring this information to the Council for consideration to determine how this position should be filled while leaving options open for the future. Human Resources Director Brent Hunter said in addition to the issues Chief Haworth has raised regarding a personal services agreement versus employment and the possibility of an employment relationship with Mountlake Terrace, there are other issues for the Council to consider. These include recruitment, whether to recruit on a national level or only on the West Coast, and the role of the Fire Chief. If the City wants to enter into a relationship with Mountlake Terrace, the Fire Chief would fill more of an administrative role rather than command responsibilities. He referred to the Fire Chief salary comparison for the Puget Sound region, noting a professional service agreement would provide more flexibility in recruitment. He said there are individuals in Public Safety working under contract rather than as employees. This provides flexibility in negotiating the benefit package as well as flexibility if a decision is made to have a relationship with Mountlake Terrace. Fire Chief Ron Haworth said the City has an opportunity to consider a different method of hiring a Fire Chief, particularly since Mountlake Terrace currently does not have a Fire Chief and likely will be hiring one. The question arises, how thin can a Fire Chief be stretched. He explained. the department he commanded prior to Edmonds had 15 stations, and dealt with two Fire Districts and two cities, and its structural management included two assistant Fire Chiefs, a training officer, a Fire Marshal and the clerical staff. He said this equates to the staff in place in the two cities, which he felt was a reasonable span of control. He said hiring a Fire Chief with the expectation he /she would be suppression manager or working in the street, is fast becoming unrealistic and the City should consider another structure. He said there are individuals within the Fire Department that are better able to perform those tasks. Further, it takes a tremendous amount of time to maintain those skills properly along with the administrative responsibilities. He encouraged the City to consider the possibility of providing a Fire Chief via a Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 23, 1999 Page 10 contract, even if it is for Edmonds alone, but leave the door open for Mountlake Terrace to be involved. He encouraged the City not to rush into the process and to do a nationwide search rather than limiting the search to the state of Washington or the West Coast. Chief Haworth requested he be allowed to have some input into the Fire Chief Recruitment Process provided by Mr. Hunter. Observing this may be the last time he addresses the Council, Chief Haworth said he enjoyed working with the City, staff, and Council and appreciated the opportunity to provide interim Fire Chief services to the City. He referred to his statement that he would remain until the City completed its study of consolidation and said now that has been completed, he plans to move on and allow the City to move forward with hiring a Fire Chief. Mayor Fahey asked staff to clarify 1) the spectrum of duties it would be reasonable to expect a full -time Fire Chief to assume, 2) whether it is realistic to have a combined administrative and command Fire Chief, 3) whether it is reasonable to believe there is enough administrative work for a full -time Fire Chief, and 4) how the City would contract for a Fire Chief or enter into a professional services agreement with a firm that provides this type of service. Chief Haworth said there are numerous certifications a command /street officer must maintain, which an administrative chief would not need to maintain because .he /she would not be exposed to those activities. He said consideration must be given to the amount of time spent in the command/street role compared to an administrative role. An administrator of a two city department or a five to ten station department is not a lot different than commanding 2 -3 stations and there would be benefits to the two cities and the taxpayers. He said the majority of administrative fire chiefs, who have been in that role for any length of time, lose the ability to command street incidents, as keeping up with the federal, state and local changes on the administrative level is a full -time job and makes it difficult to maintain active skills. Mayor Fahey commented that although partnering with another city was a possibility, there was currently no definite indication that would occur. If the City hired a management/administrative Fire Chief for only Edmonds, Chief Haworth has indicated there would not be adequate work for a full -time Fire Chief. Chief Haworth said he was speaking for himself when he made that comment; coming from an organization with a high degree of responsibility, he did not feel there was enough to keep him busy 40 hours a week, but another individual may feel differently. Mayor Fahey asked if it was reasonable to assume Edmonds could hire an administrative Fire Chief in a full -time capacity. Chief Haworth answered yes. Mayor Fahey asked how this would affect his /her ability to provide administrative services to another city (i.e. Mountlake Terrace). Chief Haworth answered the administrative responsibilities between the two cities would be very similar; a.Fire Chief certainly would have the time to handle both. Councilmember Van Hollebeke said Chief Haworth was truly a professional and it had been a pleasure to have him serve as the City's interim Fire Chief. Councilmember Van Hollebeke asked Chief Haworth for a sense of the cost of the City hiring an administrative Fire Chief and the possibility of a joint agreement with another city. He observed the Fire Chiefs salary in other cities ranged from approximately $78,000 to $100,000 per year. Chief Haworth answered it would cost less than the City hiring its own full -time Fire Chief. He did not anticipate a Fire Chief under contract to two municipalities would be paid the full salary by each city. Although the City would likely pay more than 50% (i.e., 60 %), the City would certainly not pay 100 %. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 23, 1999 Page 1 I Councilmember Plunkett asked if the City could hire a fill -time Fire Chief and then contract him out to another city at a later date. Mr. Hunter said it likely would only require an interlocal agreement with the other jurisdiction. Council President Haakenson echoed Councilmember Van Hollebeke's comments regarding the service Chief Haworth has provided to the City. Council President Haakenson said he has discussed this issue with Mountlake Terrace's Mayor, Dave Gossett, who indicates they want to be certain Edmonds makes its own decision before they commit to a joint Fire Chief. He stressed Edmonds needs to make its decision first regardless of any future possibility of a joint Fire Chief with .Mountlake Terrace. Council President Haakenson observed Chief Haworth recommended Edmonds share a Fire Chief with another entity, indicating there is not a sufficient workload for a full -time Fire Chief in Edmonds. Yet Chief Haworth also indicated this would depend on the person hired. Council President Haakenson observed the City needs to hire a Fire Chief first and then determine whether there is the ability to share him/her in the future. He said the current job description states the representative duties of a Fire Chief are to "respond to major emergency incidents and assume or delegate command; participate in fire suppression or emergency incidents as needed; direct appropriate actions to protect life and property and control the spread of fire." He observed Chief Haworth indicated this was no longer a reasonable job description. Chief Haworth said if the City was interested in hiring a Fire Chief under a joint agreement with another municipality, that should be a consideration at the time the individual is hired. Councilmember Nordquist thanked Chief Haworth for his contribution to the City. Based on the comments made by Chief Haworth tonight, Councilmember Nordquist asked whether an individual hired to oversee the administrative aspects should have a fire service background or could be an administrator from outside that field. Councilmember Nordquist also asked if an administrative job description could be created. Mr. Hunter answered District 1, prior to the consolidation of Fire District 111, had a civilian fire administrator. He offered to provide that job description. Councilmember Miller complimented Chief Haworth, noting Chief Haworth was exactly what he had in mind when he spoke at the 1998 retreat of an individual to provide leadership and stability during the transition. Councilmember Miller asked if the issue of a contract chief has been reviewed with regard to LEOFF 1. Mr. Hunter said Mr. Snyder reviewed this and could not find any conflict. He said there were examples of individuals outside the LEOFF system working in the public safety capacity such as Chief Wilson in Monroe and firefighters in District 111. He said there does not appear to be a conflict in the retirement systems. Councilmember Miller asked if a contract individual would be exempt, as the interim Fire Chief is, from civil service. Mr. Hunter answered if the individual was a fire administrator, they would be exempt. Councilmember Miller asked if there was an alternative to contracting out the City's Fire Chief if it was correct that there was not sufficient work for a full -time Fire Chief, such as allowing the current Police Chief to retire and hiring a Public Safety Director to oversee the Police and Fire Departments. Mr. Hunter said Mercer Island has a Public Safety Department similar to Councilmember Miller's example. He said although this concept has been discussed a great deal, it is not a common practice. COUNCIL PRESIDENT HAAKENSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER VAN HOLLEBEKE, TO EXTEND DISCUSSION OF THIS ITEM FOR 15 MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 23, 1999 Page 12 Chief Haworth explained the only example of an administrator only in a fire department is Federal Way and in Snohomish County District 1. He was not aware of any city that had hired an administrator, only fire districts. He noted a Fire Chiefs responsibilities in a fire district are tremendously different than in a city and it would be more difficult to hire an administrator within a city department. Mayor Fahey recalled the interviews for an interim Fire Chief included an individual from the East Coast. As a result, her impression was fire departments in the northeast United States are operated differently than fire service in this area. She said this individual came up through the ranks of volunteers and in fact still had another job and was only a part-time Fire Chief. She said many of these Fire Chiefs may not have knowledge of EMS services, the differences between Basic and Advanced Life Support, etc. She asked if the City was likely to find a candidate in another part of the Unites States that has been involved in a fire service similar to the City's. Chief Haworth answered the fire service in the northeast United States are unique to anything in this area. He explained many industrial areas have no fire tachs and no fire departments as they are known in this area. Fire suppression is provided by manufacturing facilities, and employees are assigned to a fire station one day per week or month. He said these individuals consider themselves volunteers and often the Fire Chiefs are also volunteers that are assigned to a fire station during a particular period of time. He said the majority of fire departments in the United States operate like the City of Edmonds and there are numerous excellent candidates throughout the United States that the City should have the opportunity to consider. Mayor Fahey asked who would make themselves available as a contract Fire Chief. Chief Haworth answered it would likely be someone who has completed a career in fire service, noting many states allow firefighters to retire at 50 and many move around the United States because they want to continue working. He commented Bellevue's Fire Chief for the past ten years retired from the City of Los Angeles. These individuals may not be interested in the benefits and as a result would prefer to work on a contract basis. Mayor Fahey asked how likely it would be that the City would fill the position of Fire Chief with the existing job description. Chief Haworth said the City will be able to fill the position but it will be extremely difficult for that individual to maintain the skills necessary to be a street commander. Mayor Fahey explained she was seeking direction from the Council regarding how to move forward with this position. She stressed she did not advocate any particular structure but felt it was important for the Council to provide direction on the best way for the City to proceed, particularly in view of Chief Haworth's comments. Chief Haworth stressed the City has a very good Fire Department. Once the two stations are built and on line and the new equipment in place, the City will have something to be proud of He reiterated his thanks for the opportunity to provide Fire Chief services to the City. Councilmember Nordquist requested Chief Haworth provide input regarding the Fire Chief Recruitment process. Chief Haworth advised some advertisements could be eliminated because Fire Chiefs do not read those publications. He recommended adding an advertisement in the International Fire Chiefs Magazine. He recommended the department leadership and union leadership be involved in the screening process to ensure they have adequate input. He suggested the City not use fire chiefs from neighboring cities as evaluators due to the advantage Fire Administrators from outside the area (without ties to the area) can provide. In addition to the written process, he recommended the individual make a presentation regarding the written process as well as provide the individual another written exercise 30 minutes before their presentation. This would allow further evaluation of their ability to respond without A great deal of preparation. He urged the Council to visit the location where this individual is currently Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 23, 1999 Page 13 working, regardless of where that may be. This should include discussion with the community as well as individuals within their current organization. Chief Haworth suggested the process also include a psychological evaluation. Based on the information provided this evening and the fact that some areas are somewhat "gray," Councilmember Nordquist recommended the City proceed with the employment of a regular, full -time Fire Chief. He recommended the job description include administrative skills as well as fire skills. Councilmember White said he strongly favored Chief Haworth's suggestion that the City examine the employment of a person who will not be responsible for the street activity but would be solely an administrator. At the same time the City should examine possible options for associating with neighboring entities. He pointed out the consultant who did the study regarding consolidation, Randy Young, has this data available and could make an informed report on the options regarding the use of a joint administrator. Councilmember White said the requirement for a bachelor's degree and five years' experience in the job description was less than adequate. He pointed out the pool of candidates would be narrowed if the education and experience requirements were expanded. Councilmember Plunkett asked Chief Haworth if he believed this was too low a standard. Chief Haworth answered yes, but was not certain what the specific requirement should be without further research. Councilmember Plunkett recommended the City move forward with the job description and recruitment process and hire a full -time Fire Chief and consider other options in the future. Mayor Fahey said the Council could direct staff to revise the job description if they desired and /or reconsider the recruitment process. She said the recruitment process is the process used the last time the City hired a Fire Chief. It could be revised to incorporate some of Chief Haworth's suggestions, although some of his suggestions are already part of the evaluation process. She explained Assistant Fire Chief Kevin Taylor has agreed to serve as the Acting Fire Chief during the process. If the Council would prefer to have these issues researched further, she was agreeable. This issue was brought to the Council at this time to allow the discussion to take place while Chief Haworth is still available. With regard to Councilmember White's comment regarding information available from Randy Young, she said much of the information may be available as a result of discussion at the Steering Committee. She pointed out Mr. Young believes there are concrete reasons to consider bringing about some type of consolidation of administrative services. She said the question becomes whether other entities are willing to consider this as well. She agreed trying to determine that at this time would derail the process of hiring a Fire Chief. COUNCILMEMBER VAN HOLLEBEKE MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MILLER, TO EXTEND DISCUSSION OF THIS ITEM FOR TEN MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED. Councilmember Van Hollebeke supported Councilmember White's recommendation, noting if the City hires a permanent Fire Chief, it is not reasonable to believe his/her responsibilities would be changed within the next few years. He recommended the City explore the possibility of shared administrative responsibilities with other jurisdictions while that opportunity is still available. Council President Haakenson did not object to changing the experience and education in the Fire Chiefs job description. He asked if the Fire Chiefs job description was recently updated. Mr. Hunter answered. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 23, 1999 Page 14 it was an outcome of the Human Resources plan in 1997. Council President Haakenson preferred the City seek a Fire Chief under the existing job description, who can respond to major emergency incidents and assume or delegate command; participate in fire suppression or emergency incidents as needed as the current job description states. He supported the comments made by Councilmembers Nordquist and Plunkett regarding hiring a full -time employee Fire Chief as soon as possible. He stressed Edmonds needed to make its decision based on Edmonds' needs not Mountlake Terrace. Councilmember Miller agreed with Council President Haakenson, pointing out his concern with a contract Fire Chief was that only a certain group of applicants would apply (primarily those seeking an interim job) versus a permanent full -time employee on his /her way up who has the desire to take the organization to greater levels. He preferred this occur in Edmonds and recommended the City move forward with hiring a full -time, permanent Fire Chief. Councilmember Earling reiterated his comment that the City has the best firefighters, the best equipment, and the best station locations. He said it would be foolish to compromise this with a compromise Fire Chief. Although he agreed with the comments made by Councilmembers Nordquist, Miller, Plunkett and Haakenson, he was also heavily persuaded by Chief Haworth's comments. Although he believed there would eventually be affiliations with other jurisdictions, because they would not be achieved quickly, he preferred the City move forward with a traditional role of Fire Chief. He requested staff provide a modified job description as well as a revised recruitment and advertising process. Mayor Fahey asked how modifying where .the advertisements would be placed and revising the recruitment process would affect the overall time line. Mr. Hunter answered it would delay the recruitment period 30 days. If the advertisements can be placed by April 5, they will be published during May, if not, they will be published in June. Council President Haakenson said if Mr. Hunter could accomplish the requested tasks by next week, the Council could hold a meeting on the fifth Tuesday, March 30. Mayor Fahey said she would be happy to follow Chief Haworth's recommendations regarding advertising the • position. She explained the advertisement is fairly generic and would allow adequate time for staff to modify the job description, which could be reviewed by the Council. Councilmember White asked if the Council adopted by acclamation to move forward and to not consider Chief Haworth's recommendation for an administrative -based Fire Chief rather than a "street fighter.'.' Mayor Fahey said the majority of the Council wanted to search for a Fire Chief on the basis of the job description that currently exists, although the description will need to be refined and the qualifications updated. She asked if Councilmember White had concerns this was an inappropriate action. Councilmember White answered yes, but was unsure what should be done to address his concern at this time. Mayor Fahey expressed her appreciation to Chief Haworth for the service he has provided to the City during the past year and said the City was fortunate to have Chief Haworth apply for this position. She also thanked him for his participation and assistance with the consolidation study. She observed although there has been some criticism that once again no action was taken at the conclusion of the fire consolidation study, the study brought forth a great deal and allowed the City to make the decisions to bring them to this point. She wished Chief Haworth well. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 23, 1999 Page 15 6A. CONSIDERATION OF TEMPORARY REMOVAL OF 3 -HOUR PARKING LIMIT ON ADMIRAL WAY TO ACCOMMODATE PORT'S CONSTRUCTION PROJECT. Removal of Community Services Director Paul Mar advised the Port requested temporary removal of the 3 -hour Hour Pkg parking limit on Admiral Way in the area beginning at the Port offices and south to the end of the right- Limit of -way. City Attorney Scott Snyder provided a written opinion indicating this is an administrative action that could best be executed via a Street Use Permit. City Engineer Jim Walker agrees. Mr. Mar said if the 3 -hour signs are covered for the 60 -day period (April 1 to May 31) as the Port requested, the area would be open to all users including Port patrons. The Port has been informed of this. Mayor Fahey explained this item was brought to the Council as the Port needed action as soon as possible and staff was uncertain whether an amendment to the ordinance implementing the 3 -hour parking limit would be necessary. Now that Mr. Snyder has provided an opinion indicating this is an administrative action, staff will move forward with this action. It was the consensus of the Council for staff to take appropriate administrative action. 7. MAYOR'S REPORT isioning Mayor Fahey reminded the public of the visioning process on March 24 at the Edmonds Theater, 7:00 - eeting 8:30 p.m. 8. COUNCIL REPORTS AND REPORTS ON COUNCIL COMMITTEE MEETINGS nimal Community Service/Development Services Meeting Regulation Committee Member Van Hollebeke advised the committee had a continued discussion regarding the rdinance draft Animal Regulation ordinance. He pointed out the importance of residents receiving appropriate notification of the upcoming public hearing date and that notification be posted in appropriate places such as veterinarian clinics, pet stores, etc. The committee directed staff to make the appropriate changes, report these to the Planning Board, and schedule a public hearing at a future City Council pion Oil meeting. There was also continued discussion regarding neighborhoods. The committee discussed the Marsh Area long range use of the Union Oil Marsh area. The City is the custodian of this property and there has been some suggestion that consideration be given to daylighting 2,000 feet of the creek as part of the mitigation for the Edmonds Crossing project. The outfall of this line is at Marina Beach and the committee discussed whether it will be necessary to extend the outfall line further into Puget Sound due Public Safety to the blockage that occurs in the line. The committee discussed reporting of the Public Safety project to Complex the Council and agreed monthly reports will be provided to the Community Service/Development Updates I Service Committee and any concerns would be presented to the full Council. Public Safety Committee Councilmember Plunkett advised the Public Safety Committee did not meet in March. COUNCILMEMBER MILLER MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT HAAKENSON, TO EXCUSE COUNCILMEMBER NORDQUIST FROM THE MARCH 16 COUNCIL MEETING. MOTION CARRIED, COUNCILMEMBER NORDQUIST ABSTAINED. Purchase/ Finance Committee .case of PD Councilmember Miller advised the Finance Committee discussed the purchase /lease of Harley Davidson Motorcycle motorcycles which were approved on the Consent Agenda. Community Grant applications were Grant Award recommended for approval on the Consent Agenda and awarded at the full Council meeting. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 23, 1999 Page 16 P for Authorization to approve RFP on banking services was discussed and recommended for approval on the king Consent Agenda. The committee had an investment and cash management review and determined rvices erroneous reporting will be corrected. The below budget condition for utility taxes and over budget vestment condition for sales tax revenue was reviewed and staff was requested to provide a monthly update. Petty view eiinquent Cash expenditures were approved. The committee was informed the City has some delinquent Receivables receivables that include other governmental agencies. Staff will provide a detailed proposal at the April meeting. COUNCILMEMBER MILLER MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER VAN HOLLEBEKE, TO EXCUSE COUNCILMEMBER WHITE FROM THE MARCH 9 COUNCIL MEETING. MOTION CARRIED, COUNCILMEMBER WHITE ABSTAINED. COUNCIL PRESIDENT HAAKENSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER NORDQUIST, TO EXCUSE COUNCILMEMBER EARLING FROM THE MARCH 9 AND MARCH 16 MEETINGS. MOTION CARRIED, COUNCILMEMBER EARLING ABSTAINED. 9. EXECUTIVE SESSION REGARDING A REAL ESTATE MATTER Mayor Fahey recessed the Council to Executive Session at 9:35 p.m. for discussion regarding a real estate matter. She advised the Council would adjourn immediately following the Executive Session with no action taken. The meeting adjourned at 10:00 p.m. �' op'-won 17vin'00, W-- Wool -,A ;,. �� SANDRA S. CHASE, CITY CLERK Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 23, 1999 Page 17 AGENDA EDMONDS CITY COUNCIL Plaza Meeting Room - Library Building 650 Main Street 7:00 -10:00 p.m. MARCH 23, 1999 SPECIAL MEETING 6:00 P.M. — PRESENTATION ON THE COMMUNITY VISIONING PROCESS 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 MARCH 16, 1999 (C) APPROVAL OF PAYROLL WARRANTS #23631 THROUGH #23748 FOR THE PERIOD MARCH 1 THROUGH MARCH 15, 1999, IN THE AMOUNT OF $456,363.39. (D) ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF CLAIM FOR DAMAGES FROM JOYCE DEARDEN ($781.01) (E) REPORT ON GENERAL FUND FINANCIAL POSITION FOR THE PERIOD ENDED FEBRUARY 28, 1999 (F) ACCEPTANCE OF DONATION AND APPROVAL OF PROSPECTUS TO SEEK ARTISTS FOR THE V AND MAIN ROUNDABOUT PUBLIC ART PROJECT (G) APPROVAL OF COMMUNITY GRANT AWARDS (H) APPROVAL OF SALARY UPGRADE FOR WATERISEWER SUPERVISOR, WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT MANAGER, AND WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT SUPERVISOR (1) AUTHORIZATION TO CALL FOR BIDS FOR TREATMENT PLANT CHEMICALS (J) AUTHORIZE MAYOR TO SIGN PUBLIC BENEFIT AGREEMENT WITH OPEN BIBLE CHURCH 3. (20 Min.) PRESENTATION OF COMMUNITY GRANT AWARDS 4. (450n.) REPORT ON DUE DILIGENCE PROCESS FOR THE PROPOSED UNDERGROUND PARKING GARAGE 5. (300n.) UPDATE ON CHAMBERS CABLE 6. (15 MIn.) DISCUSSION REGARDING THE FIRE CHIEF POSITION 7. (10 Min.) MAYOR'S REPORT 8. (15 Min.) INDIVIDUAL COUNCIL REPORTSIUPDATES ON RESPECTIVE BOARD MEETINGS 9. (15 Min.) EXECUTIVE SESSION REGARDING AREAL ESTATE MATTER Parking and meeting rooms are accessible for persons with disabilities. Contact the City Clerk at (425) 771 -0245 with 24 hours advance notice for 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.