01/23/2001 City Council1
EDMONDS CITY COUNCIL APPROVED MINUTES
JANUARY 23, 2001
The Edmonds City Council meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Council President Earling in the
Council Chambers, 250 5th Avenue North, Edmonds, followed by the flag salute.
ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT
Gary Haakenson, Mayor (arrived 7:28 p.m.)
Dave Earling, Council President
Michael Plunkett, Councilmember
Lora Petso, Councilmember
Dave Orvis, Councilmember
Christopher Davis, Councilmember
ELECTED OFFICIALS ABSENT
Thomas A. Miller, Councilmember
STAFF PRESENT
Tom Tomberg, Fire Chief
Robin Hickok, Police Chief
Duane Bowman, Development Serv. Director
Stephen Clifton, Community Services Director
Peggy Hetzler, Administrative Services Director
Noel Miller, Public Works Director
Rob Chave, Planning Manager
Steve Koho, Treatment Plant Manager
Frances Chapin, Cultural Resources Coordinator
Dave Gebert, City Engineer
Chris Sheridan, Treatment Plant Supervisor
Scott Snyder, City Attorney
Sandy Chase, City Clerk
Jana Spellman, Senior Executive Council Asst.
Jeannie Dines, Recorder
Council President Earling commented the appointment of a new Councilmember, originally scheduled
for this meeting, had been postponed until the January 30 meeting as Councilmember Miller was unable
to attend tonight's meeting.
1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
COUNCILMEMBER PLUNKETT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER DAVIS, FOR
APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
2. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
Councilmember Petso requested Item F be removed from the Consent Agenda.
COUNCILMEMBER DAVIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PLUNKETT, FOR
APPROVAL OF THE BALANCE OF THE CONSENT AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY. The agenda items approved are as follows:
(A) ROLL CALL
(B) APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF JANUARY 16, 2001
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 23, 2001
Page 1
pprove
(C)
APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS #45721 THROUGH #45887 FOR THE WEEK OF
lain
JANUARY 8, 2001 (FINAL 2000 WARRANT RUN — PART 1), IN THE AMOUNT OF
hecks
$501,259.34. APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS #45600 THROUGH #45949 FOR THE
WEEK OF JANUARY 15, 2001 (FINAL 2000 WARRANT RUN — PART 11), IN THE
AMOUNT OF $872,692.95. APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS #45950 THROUGH #46051
FOR THE WEEK OF JANUARY 15, 2001, IN THE AMOUNT OF $75,142.09.
APPROVAL OF PAYROLL CHECKS #32202 THROUGH #31104 FOR THE PERIOD
JANUARY 1 THROUGH JANUARY 15, 2001, IN THE AMOUNT OF $452,358.13.
oast -
asters
(D)
PROCLAMATION IN HONOR OF TOASTMASTERS WEEK, JANUARY 28 —
eek
FEBRUARY 3, 2001
enior
renter
(E)
AUTHORIZATION FOR MAYOR TO SIGN RECREATIONAL SERVICES
[Aareement
AGREEMENT WITH THE SOUTH COUNTY SENIOR CENTER
Item F: Authorization for Mavor to Sign a Two -Year Lease for Seven (7) 2001 Ford Crown Victoria Police
olice Car Cars with Financial Consultants International, Inc. in the Amount of $192,850.00
ease Councilmember Petso recalled in prior years, a Council committee reviewed whether leasing police
vehicles was more beneficial than purchasing the vehicles. This year there had been no committee
review and she was inclined to refer the item to committee for review. She asked Public Works Director
Noel Miller to address this issue. Mr. Miller explained the proposal was to replace seven of the eleven
patrol cars. Since 1994 or earlier, the City has leased police vehicles on a two year lease with the
possibility of a third year extension. The seven 1998 Crown Victoria vehicles are on the one year
extension of the lease. In the third year of the lease, the City pays approximately half the lease payment
per the lease agreement. When seven vehicles were leased in 1998 and four in 1999, the Finance
Committee was advised the lease was less costly than purchasing the vehicles. Analysis in 1998 and
1999 indicated the vehicles would pay for themselves by being leased.
Mr. Miller further explained the 2001 lease increased $30 from $950 to $980. He said it was more
beneficial for the City to lease the police vehicles. He explained since new vehicles begin to be
manufactured in October 2000, the vendor was anxious to submit the order for the vehicles to ensure
2001 sedans were available. He was unable to guarantee the availability of the vehicles if a decision was
delayed for a month.
Councilmember Petso referred to Exhibit 1 which listed the Crown Victoria vehicles to be replaced,
observing there were only six and asked if an additional vehicle was being purchased. Mr. Miller
answered yes, the Chevrolet Tahoe, currently on lease, would be purchased by the Police Department.
Councilmember Plunkett observed there has been a thorough financial analysis of this issue over the past
few years. Mr. Miller agreed. Councilmember Plunkett commented this expenditure was funded in the
01 budget. Mr. Miller agreed and suggested the financial advantages be reviewed when the lease expired
on the next group of vehicles in 2002.
COUNCILMEMBER PLUNKETT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER ORVIS, FOR
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEM F.
Councilmember Petso pointed out there had been some change in the financials over the past two years.
She said it would be beneficial for the Council to review the revised financials to ensure the practice of
leasing vehicles was economically sound.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 23, 2001
Page 2
MOTION CARRIED, COUNCII:MEIVMBER PETSO'OPPOSED. The item approved is as follows:
(F) AUTHORIZATION FOR MAYOR TO SIGN A TWO-YEAR LEASE FOR SEVEN (7) 2001
FORD CROWN VICTORIA POLICE CARS WITH FINANCIAL CONSULTANTS
INTERNATIONAL, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $192,850.00
3. AUDIENCE COMMENTS
Live AI Rutledge, 7101 Lake Ballinger Way, Edmonds, recommended the Council consider live broadcasts
Broadcast of of Council meetings and committee meetings, including the ability for the public to call in during
Meetings
meetings.
T&T John Heighway, 1130 4th Avenue S, Edmonds, expressed his dissatisfaction with the cable service
Cable provided by AT&T, noting the cost increased and the quality of service decreased. When the franchise is
Services due for review, he urged the Council to consider other sources, including deregulating cable service if
possible. He next referred to Item 9 on the agenda (amendments to ECDC regarding Community
Facilities) and encouraged the Council to have a more congenial dialogue with the school district. He
ommumty stated there were sufficient regulations already in place that addressed the issue of a Conditional Use
acilities Permit (CUP). He commented that it was a punitive action to enact a five year review and the associated
costs of the traffic study, etc. that may be required. The Edmonds School District has 13 sites within the
city limits, possibly requiring a significant expenditure if a traffic study was required for each site every
five years. He said churches were not addressed well by the proposed ordinance. He pointed out the 39
churches with Edmonds addresses would also be required to make a substantial expenditure if traffic
studies were required.
Roger Hertrich, 1020 Puget Drive, Edmonds, referred to Item 9 on the agenda (amendments to ECDC
mun;ry regarding Community Facilities),s ecificall Chapter 16.80 recalling there was discussion at the last
ilities g g tY specifically P g
Council meeting about changes to that section, and recommended the Council pay specific attention to it.
Mr. Hertrich then expressed his dissatisfaction with the City's finances. He pointed out salaries had
increased and where previously there had been $500,000 increase each year, there was now over a $1
iry I million in increases. He commented the funds currently used to fund the library would be used for other
mantes expenditures if annexation to the Sno-Isle Library District was approved, an example of increasing taxes
under a different guise. He observed Mountlake Terrace was proposing to drop out of Medic 7, which
should result in excess personnel in Medic 7. Instead of downsizing Medic 7, Edmonds and Lynnwood
added monies to the budget to support the employees although they would now be serving less area.
4. UPDATE ON CABLE TV TRANSITION FROM CHAMBERS CABLE TO AT&T BROADBAND
T&T
'iBroadband Community Services Director Stephen Clifton explained the cable franchise was transferred from
Cable M I Chambers Cable to AT&T upon the purchase of Chambers. Cable by AT&T. He said the franchise
agreement was a 15-year, non-exclusive agreement entered into by the City and Chambers Cable in
1996.
Kathy Nelson, Area Franchise Manager for the Everett System, 900 132nd Street SW, Everett,
advised AT&T Broadband launched its regional channel lineup in Edmonds in November 2000. She
provided an overview of the transition that occurred in the past year from the cable system previously
owned by Chambers Communication to the system that is currently owned by AT&T Broadband. She
explained the Chambers system had limited capacity, offering subscribers 36 channels with no return
capabilities (no ability to order pay -per -view channels from the set -top box). She described the former
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 23, 2001
Page 3
system architecture (coaxial cable). When AT&T purchased the cable system from Chambers, as park of
the purchase and sale agreement, Chambers rebuilt the cable system using a hybrid fiber coax system
(BFC). The benefit of the BFC system is increased capacity for programming purposes, improved
picture quality, a more reliable system, and return capabilities.
When Chambers completed the rebuild, the system was capable of providing access to 69 analog
channels and 73 digital channels. By August 2000, the upgrade was completed and the at-home service
(high-speed internet accessservice) became available. Since August, approximately 1,000 of the 12,000
customers in Edmonds have subscribed to that service.
Regarding programming, as of November 1, 2000, the new upgraded channel line-up available
throughout the Seattle -Metro area was launched, increasing the total number of channels available from
142 to 225. In addition to standard cable services, the new channel lineup provides access to 15
multiplex channels, 66 pay -per -view channels, 37 digital music channels and 8 FM radio broadcast
channels. Programming for the new channel lineup was based on viewer polls done by Gallop Polling.
Some channels available on the old channel lineup may not be available on the new lineup, however, due
to their popularity, AT&T is evaluating a potential re -launch of some channels.
Regarding equipment, as part of the upgrade launch, some customer equipment required change -out
because AT&T uses different technology than Chambers. The old cable system required channels the
customer did not want to receive to be blocked; the new technology allows customers to select pay -per -
view programming via their remote control and set -top boxes. This is consistent with the way
programming is delivered throughout the Seattle -Metro area.
Regarding rates, Ms. Nelson explained there were no rate changes for basic, standard and digital cable
services as a result of the upgrade. Rate increases did occur for premium channels to standardize them
with the rates charged for those services throughout the Seattle -Metro area. Customers were notified of
the rate changes via mail, telephone and, publication in the Edmonds Enterprise over the past six months.
In accordance with FCC regulations and the franchise agreement with the City, AT&T provides customer
service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Ms. Nelson said AT&T's customer representatives were well
trained and are able to assist customers with nearly any question/concern. If the customer service
representative is unable to help a customer, they are encouraged to access the elevated complaint process
by calling 1-877-824-2288. She acknowledged customers who did not feel AT&T was addressing their
concerns may call the City. She encouraged customers to call AT&T first.
Ms. Nelson advised the franchise agreement required AT&T to provide the City with up to seven access
channels for public, educational, and government (PEG) use. The City receives ten PEG channels
including one public, five government, and four educational access channels. Consistent with the terms
of the franchise agreement AT&T has provided the City cable. -casting equipment to allow live broadcast
of City meetings. The design to connect the cable system to -the new Council Chambers should be
completed by the end of this week.
Councilmember Petso recalled a citizen tonight described difficulty reaching a customer service
representative. She asked what options were available for this individual. Ms. Nelson offered to speak
with the person and explained customers are asked to call AT&T and then utilize the elevated complaint
process. She acknowledged that customers who were unhappy with the response received from AT&T,
generally contact the local franchising authority, the City, who then contacts AT&T.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 23, 2001
Page 4
Councilmember Petso asked the recourse for' citizens who wanted to receive channels that had been
eliminated from the lineup and whether they should contact AT&T to request the channel be added. Ms.
Nelson answered contacting AT&T was the best way, channels were provided based on programming
customers indicated they wanted provided.
Councilmember Petso advised she received a notice in the mail today indicating rates were increasing 5-
8% depending on the service a citizen had. She asked how long it would be until another rate increase
occurred. Ms. Nelson answered approximately one year. She said the rate increase did not affect basic
rates, only expanded basic and standard rates ala carte premium services.
Council President Earling asked what customer service was available for hearing impaired individuals.
Ms. Nelson responded there was an option on the 1-800 menu for hearing impaired customers.
Council President Earling asked if there were different priorities for installing residential versus
commercial service. He explained a downtown business was attempting to have cable service hooked up
and were told the capital budget was not available to do the required undergrounding in that area. Ms.
Nelson said the franchise agreement specified AT&T provide cable installation free of charge as long as
the person requesting the service was within 150 feet. She said typically AT&T preferred aerial
installation but there were undergrounding requirements in Edmonds. She said this individual had been
misinformed and AT&T would provide installation to customers within 150 feet of their cable. She
commented she had the individual's telephone number and planned to contact him.
Councilmember Davis said a number of citizens have expressed concern with the public access channel.
Upon researching the programming available on the public access channel, he was shocked by language
and content of the programming on the public access channel. He inquired about AT&T's policy
regarding the content and whether citizens could have the channel blocked. Ms. Nelson said if the local
franchising authority requests it, AT&T is required to provide public access programming. She
explained federal law prohibits cable operators from providing any editorial control; the local
jurisdictions may provide editorial control. Citizens can have the number blocked free of charge by
calling AT&T.
Ms. Nelson distributed updated rate and channel cards.
5 & 6. REPORT ON FINAL CONSTRUCTION COSTS AND RESULTS OF THE ENERGY
Energy IMPROVEMENTS AT THE TREATMENT PLANT & REPORT ON FINAL CONSTRUCTION
Improve- COSTS AND PERFORMANCE OF THE UPGRADES TO THE KLAMPRESSES AT THE
ents at the
Treatment TREATMENT PLANT
Plant
Treatment Plant Manager Steve Koho explained the electrical energy improvements and performance
upgrades to the Klampresses at the treatment plant were intended to reduce energy expenditures at the
treatment plant, both electricity and diesel fuel. He said reducing energy expenditures keeps water and
sewer rates low.
Mr. Koho explained the City's electricity provider, Snohomish County PUD, has an incentive program
for large commercial and industrial users to replace older, outdated equipment with more energy efficient
equipment. Council authorized the Mayor to enter into an agreement with PUD for energy
improvements at the treatment plant. Following completion of the project in fall 2000, PUD measured
the electrical consumption before and after the improvement, projecting an annual savings of $45,000.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 23, 2001
Page 5
The majority of the work was installing new lighting fixtures throughout the plant as well as replacing
equipment with more energy efficient equipment.
Mr. Koho displayed a graph illustrating energy consumption by kilowatt hours. He pointed out the
amount of energy the treatment plant would have consumed in 2001 without the capital improvement
project and the consumption with the project, resulting in the savings of 780,000 kilowatt hours. He
displayed a graph illustrating the electricity expenses with and without the capital improvement, pointing
out the projected increase due to PUD's 38% rate increase was reduced by approximately half. He
summarized the City significantly reduced its energy consumption and electricity expense and PUD
funded about half of the improvements.
Treatment Plant Supervisor Chris Sheridan explained in June 1999, the Council authorized
implementation of an upgrade to the Klampresses to reduce diesel consumption. He explained the
Klampresses were used to dry solids resulting from the treatment process. The drier the solids, a less
amount of diesel fuel is needed in the incinerator. He displayed a graph illustrating fuel use in the
incinerator from 1997 — 2000. The average fuel use from 1993-1998, was approximately 80,000 gallons
per year. In 1999, there was a slight decrease in fuel use due to pilot studies of chemical conditioning
agents. As a result chemical costs increased and diesel costs were lower. Also in 1999, the improved
Klampresses were operated for the last four months of the year. In 2000, a full year of operating the
upgraded Klampresses, only 26,755 gallons of diesel were used.
At the same time, the price of diesel fuel has increased. During the period 1993-1998, the average cost
per gallon of diesel was $0.78 per gallon. In 1998, the cost was approximately $0.56 per gallon. The
cost of diesel began to increase in the last quarter of 1999, averaging approximately $0.86 per gallon. In
2000, the average per gallon cost was $1.36 and the cost per gallon in 2001 is projected to be $1.56. He
commented this may be higher as the last delivery of 2,000 gallons cost $1.75 per gallon.
Mr. Sheridan explained even with the increased diesel costs, only $36,000 was expended in 2000 for
diesel fuel. Without the capital project, the City would have expended approximately $82,000.
Additional benefits of the improvements include electrical savings due to decreased incinerator operating
time as a result of drier solids (a savings of approximately 98,000 kilowatt hours in 2000), 560 labor
hours, and 56,000 gallons of diesel fuel.
Mr. Sheridan pointed out the electrical savings of this project were sufficient to power 60 houses for one
year and the 56,000 gallon savings in diesel fuel would heat 80 homes for a year.
Councilmember Plunkett complimented the treatment plant staff for their efforts, commenting the
current energy crisis highlights what an extraordinary accomplishment this represents. He asked how
this improvement was initiated. Mr. Koho answered PUD came to the treatment plant at the City's
request for additional customer service. At that meeting, PUD informed staff of this program.
Councilmember Plunkett complimented the treatment plant staff on the foresight to recognize the
opportunity provided by the program. Mayor Haakenson commended treatment plant staff for their
creative thinking.
Council President Earling recognized Snohomish County Councilmember Gary Nelson in the audience.
Mayor Haakenson commented Congressman Jay Inslee would be here to speak to the Council later in the
meeting.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 23, 2001
Page 6
feniorial:
7. DONATION OF FIRE MEMORIAI AMENITY FORPUBLIC SAFETY COMPLEX SITE
Cultural Resources Coordinator Frances Chapin explained several months ago, the International
Association of Firefighters Local 1828 approached City staff with a proposal to donate a memorial to
commemorate local and national firefighters who lose their lives in the line of duty. In August, Fire
Chief Tom Tomberg and Parks and Recreation Director Arvilla Ohlde met with the Community
Services/Development Services Committee to present the concept. The Council approved formation of a
committee to establish a process. The committee, consisting of Chief Tomberg, Ms. Ohlde, former
Councilmember White and herself, met with City Attorney Scott Snyder to establish the process.
Tonight is the initial step in the process that was established, presentation of the concept of a donated
firefighter memorial amenity. Ms. Chapin explained the amenity will be subject to review and approval
by the Edmonds Arts Commission as to the location in relation to existing or planned public art on the
Public Safety Complex. The proposal would also be presented to the Architectural Design Board for
their approval of an amendment to the site. Following the two reviews and approvals, the proposed
donated memorial amenity would be returned to Council for approval and authorization to place it on the
Public Safety Complex site.
Fire Chief Tom Tomberg explained he was presenting this item on behalf of the International
Association Firefighters Union Local 1828. He advised the Officer who planned to present this item was
called away to a family emergency and the Union Officers were in Olympia meeting with legislators.
The amenity the Firefighters Union was proposing, which they would pay for and install at their cost,
was a smaller scale reproduction, approximately 30 inches in height, of a bronze sculpture titled,
"Somewhere -Everyday." The sculpture was originally commissioned and rendered by nationally
recognized artist/sculptor Gary Coulter and the original artwork is at the Firefighter Memorial in
Colorado Springs, Colorado. He explained the sculpture would be mounted on a base and located with
the flagpole to commemorate local and national firefighters who lose their lives in the line of duty. The
sculpture will be placed in the northwest corner of the Fire Station near 6th Avenue and Edmonds.
COUNCILMEMBER PLUNKETT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT EARLING,
THAT THE COUNCIL ADOPT AND APPROVE THE CONCEPT OF A DONATED
FIREFIGHTER MEMORIAL AMENITY SUBJECT TO 1) REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF THE
LOCATION IN RELATIONSHIP TO EXISTING OR PLANNED PUBLIC ART ON THE SITE BY
THE EDMONDS ART COMMISSION (EAC), 2) REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT
OF THE EXISTING ADB APPROVED SITE BY THE ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN BOARD, 3)
FOLLOWING THE EAC AND ADB APPROVAL, CITY COUNCIL WILL APPROVE THE
ACCEPTANCE (AS A COUNCIL CONSENT ITEM) OF THE PRIVATELY DONATED
AMENITY FROM FIREFIGHTERS LOCAL 1828 OF IAFF, AND 4) AUTHORIZE THE
PLACEMENT AT THE PUBLIC SAFETY COMPLEX. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Affordable 8. PRESENTATION BY THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING STAKEHOLDERS SUBCOMMITTEE OF
Housing HEALTHY COMMUNITIES
Stake-
holders Janet Duncan, Director of Grants and Development of Senior Services of Snohomish County,
described the Housing Stakeholders Subcommittee, explaining the group is an offshoot of Healthy
Communities that was established two years ago by Snohomish County government. Healthy
Communities was developed to consider the needs in the community and what can be done to make the
community healthy. One of the outcomes of Healthy Communities was considering affordable housing
as that was one of the primary needs in the community. She said affordable housing was housing for low
income people, primarily those at 50-60% of the median family income.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 23, 2001
Page 7
Pete Grow, Associate Executive Director of Snohomish .County Housing Authority, pointed out how
difficult it was. for people on public assistance, pension, or Social Security to meet their housing costs
and other needs of daily living. Many working families cannot afford to meet their housing costs. A
family of four, earning $10 per hour could afford only $520 per month for rent and utilities, however, the
average rent in Snohomish County is $755 per month, not including utilities. He emphasized the
difference between what families earn and what the housing costs are in the community. In 1996, 31%
of Snohomish County households earned less than $10 per hour, illustrating their inability to meet
housing costs as well as other needs.
Mr. Grow explained they consider the housing continuum, from a family who may be homeless through
home ownership. He referred to information provided regarding the Edmonds community, indicating the
population was 38,600 or 6.5% of Snohomish County's total population. Edmonds has 16,657 housing AA
units and the median income is $29,600. The information provided indicated the average rent for a two 3
bedroom was $650 per month, .but the Apartment Vacancy Report indicates the average rent for a two
bedroom one bath apartment is $747 .and the average rent for a two bedroom two bath apartment is $817.
Mr. Grow reviewed information regarding project based assisted housing units in the Edmonds
community, (a building constructed with a government subsidy where everyone in the building is
subsidized and pays a reduced rent). There are 10 non-profit owned units, 87 units privately owned, 20
units owned by Snohomish County Housing Authority (SCHA), for a total of 117 units. He explained
tenant -based assisted housing was a subsidy provided to a family via a housing voucher. Of the 4,600
tenant based units in Snohomish County, Edmonds has 76. Edmonds has 117 project -based assisted
housing units and Snohomish County has 6,669 units. He .provided an inventory of the assisted housing
units throughout Snohomish County and information specific to Edmonds units. He summarized
Edmonds' assisted housing total represented 2.2% of the assisted housing in Snohomish County. The
estimated demand for assisted housing units Edmonds might expect to provide to residents was 2,694.
He pointed out the data to develop this number was 1990 census data updated by the American Housing
Survey in 1995 and other ,upgrading factors.
Responding to questions of Councilmember Plunkett, Mr. Grow stated any assisted housing a community
provided would be well utilized and immediately filled. He explained that SCHA administers the
housing voucher program for Snohomish County. The waiting list was closed from 1993 to 1999 due to
demand and the 2,500 vouchers were filled as people left the program. Applications were again taken for
two weeks in 1999 and names selected via a lottery. Those needs have not yet been met, indicating the
overwhelming demand.
Councilmember Plunkett observed Edmonds now provides 2.2% of the assisted housing in Snohomish
County and asked if that percentage was below what the City should be providing and how that
compared to other cities. Mr. Grow answered most communities provided a higher percentage of
assisted housing than is provided in Edmonds. For example, Everett provides 40-50% of assisted
housing in Snohomish County. He pointed out the importance of establishing a balance and allowing
people a choice of where to reside regardless of income level. South Snohomish County was a great
location for low income households due to the proximity to job markets throughout the community.
Ms. Duncan advised the Stakeholders Subcommittee was comprised of private non-profit organizations
that develop housing - County government, lenders, bankers, realtors, and funders interested in
affordable housing. The Subcommittee meets monthly to discuss the needs in the community, what the
subcommittee can do in the community, and how to get others to assist in advocating for affordable
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 23, 2001
Page 8
housing. The continuum of affordable housing includes homeless shelters, transitional housing with
support services, subsidized rental housing, caring for existing housing, and home ownership. There are
county, state and federal funds available in each category to assist in meeting the need.
Ms. Duncan said the Housing Stakeholders Subcommittee had three primary objectives/strategies, 1) to
improve the process via grant funds, 2) to utilize the expertise of housing providers to create affordable,
stable and well maintained housing, 3) to enhance the resources that can be used for housing
construction. She offered their services if Edmonds had a housing need they wanted addressed and
invited the Council to join the Stakeholders group.
Council President Earling inquired about senior housing in Edmonds. Ms. Duncan responded that there
was not a sufficient amount of low income senior housing anywhere in Snohomish County. There are
waiting lists of 200-400 people for each of the 13 senior housing projects either constructed or under
construction. The alternative is a subsidized housing project for which one is income eligible or a
Section 8 certificate that allows a senior to remain in a private home. She said one of the issues
associated with seniors is not only housing but also support services to help them remain independent.
Council President Earling said many people in the community are unaware of the project on 3rd Avenue
which is a great contribution to the community as it allows those without sufficient income to live in the
Edmonds community and walk to nearby amenities. He said the focus in Edmonds needed to be on
senior housing. Ms. Duncan said they would be willing to work with Edmonds on providing affordable
senior housing as well as providing senior services such as DART, Meals on Wheels, Minor Home
Repair, etc. She agreed senior housing needed to be placed in communities where people were within
walking distance of services. Mr. Grow noted several programs were available to low income seniors to
assist them in remaining in their homes as long as possible such as the weatherization program through
Snohomish County, the minor home repair program through Senior Services, and the housing
rehabilitation program through SCHA.
Councilmember Davis recalled last week the SCHA made a presentation seeking approval to purchase a
large apartment complex in Edmonds. Mr. Grow agreed that complex would add a number of units to
the total assisted housing units in Edmonds. Council President Earling asked that SCHA provide
information regarding how those additional units would impact the percentage of affordable housing
units provided in Edmonds.
ommunity 9. WORK SESSION — PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE EDMONDS COMMUNITY
acilities DEVELOPMENT CODE CREATING NEW CHAPTERS 17.40.050 (NON -CONFORMING
COMMUNITY FACILITIES), AND 17.65 (PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR COMMUNITY
FACILITIES), AND AMENDING CHAPTERS: 16.20 — RS (SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL);
16.30 — RM (MULTIPLE RESIDENTIAL); 16.45 — BN (NEIGHBORHOOD BUSINESS); 16.50 —
BC (COMMUNITY BUSINESS); 16.53 — BP (PLANNED BUSINESS); 16.55 — CW
(COMMERCIAL WATERFRONT); 16.61 — MIXED USE (MEDICAL USE); AND CHAPTER 21
(DEFINITIONS).
Planning Manager Rob Chave explained in response to Council direction at the last work session
regarding Community Facilities, City Attorney Scott Snyder drafted two options. Option 1 includes a
threshold above which a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) would be required for churches and elementary
schools. In an attempt to determine how many churches/schools this would impact, staff learned there
are three elementary schools that would exceed the 60,000 square foot threshold, Chase Lake, Madrona,
and Maplewood. Using information from the Assessor's office, it appeared there were 4-6 churches that
would exceed the 22,000 square foot threshold.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 23, 2001
Page 9
Mayor Haakenson interrupted this item to allow Congressman Jay Inslee to address the Council.
ongressman
ay Inslee Report by Congressman Jay Inslee
Congressman Jay Inslee commented regarding the issue of salmon, and explained that he and
SA - Congressman Metcalf were able to pass a bill entitled the Puget Sound Initiative which authorized $40
almon million in federal funds for local communities to address fish challenges. Assuming sufficient
appropriations were made, the Army Corp of Engineers would share their resources, biologists,
geologists, hydrologists, etc., to assist local jurisdictions with any permitting challenges.
ssues
Regarding energy, Congressman Inslee has been working on a regional western United States cap on
nwholesale prices to alleviate short term problems. Governor Locke has backed this proposal as have
es
most western governors. He said although he was optimistic about this concept last week, the new
administration indicated their opposition to it yesterday. He was also working to avoid the northwest
"holding the bag" if California utilities became insolvent. He said they will push for California to
increase their rates or require California guarantee repayment.
Councilmember Plunkett advised Snohomish County PUD received approximately 75% of its energy
from Bonneville. With the energy crisis, there may be coalitions preparing to "raid" Bonneville. He
asked if Congressman Inslee was associated with any coalition of northwest legislators who will stave
off such a raid. Congressman Inslee described bipartisan efforts to protect Bonneville Power
Administration (BPA). He said although deregulation in California precipitated an energy crisis, it
slowed threats to BPA. The bad news is the energy crisis increases the level of talk regarding BPA.
ransporta- Council President Earling expressed his appreciation to Congressman Inslee for his diligent and ongoing
ion Issues efforts to assist with solving transportation problems in the Puget Sound basin. Congressman Inslee
recognized Council President Earling's efforts regarding transportation.
Congressman Inslee encouraged the public to call .and/or email him with any concerns.
ommumty 1 9. WORK SESSION - Continued
acilities
Mr. Chave commented staff preferred Option 1. He pointed out a CUP was not an inexpensive process
and should not be entered into lightly.
City Attorney Snyder commented that while the CUP permits were issued for five years, a facility would
not automatically be required to provide a traffic study, etc. A full analysis would only be required if
staff found there had been a significant change/increase in the performance criteria that would justify a
full review. If staff found there had been a significant change/increase, the facility could appeal. If staff
found there had not been an increase and the neighbors felt there had been, the neighbors could appeal.
The City already has a process for individuals to challenge an existing CUP if it is creating a nuisance.
Councilmember Orvis asked whether Option 1 required a CUP if a church was under the threshold. Mr.
Chave answered no, it would be a permitted use. Councilmember Orvis asked if a church expanded but
did not exceed the threshold, i.e. expanding from 10,000 square feet to 15,000 square feet, would a CUP
be required. Mr. Chave answered no. Councilmember Orvis observed as long as a church stayed below
the 22,000 square foot threshold, a CUP would not be required regardless of the location. Mr. Chave
agreed.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 23, 2001
Page 10
Mr. Chave requested the Council provide clarification on heighi'and distance requirements from arterials
for churches. He said the distance criteria in the existing ordinance was irrelevant if Option 1 was
selected as the threshold would be size rather than distance from an arterial.
Councilmember Orvis used Westgate Chapel as an example of a church over 22,000 square feet and
asked whether it would require a CUP. Mr. Chave answered yes and a review would be required every
five years; if nothing changed, staff would issue a decision indicating no further analysis was required.
Councilmember Orvis observed under Option 1, only size was considered, not location. Mr. Chave
explained location was addressed indirectly via size. If a church exceeded a certain size, the impacts
associated with traffic, noise, etc. would be such that it would be reviewed on a case -by -case basis to
consider all possible impacts arising from the facility. He said a large facility would likely be pushed
toward an arterial due to impacts, thus making it more difficult for a small facility located on a
residential street to expand because of the need to mitigate impacts. A small facility that expanded could
reach a point where they would be unable to mitigate the impacts created without significant
expenditures and no further growth in the location would be possible.
Councilmember Davis asked if Option 1 was preferable to changing the square footage requirements of
permitted uses to include that small number of schools and churches. Mr. Chave said the schools that do
not meet the threshold will likely not be a problem in five years. The Planning Board discussed 60,000
versus 70,000 square feet and ultimately •chose 60,000 square feet. He said 70,000 square feet as a
threshold would be acceptable but an equivalent church size would need to be determined.
Councilmember Davis asked if 70,000 square foot threshold for schools would accommodate the schools
that did not meet the threshold. Mr. Chave answered Madrona was approximately 84,000 square feet and
would still exceed that threshold. Mr. Snyder explained these options were offered in response to
Council's desire to maintain some control over growth over time.
Council President Earling observed Chase Lake had been remodeled/rebuilt and should not be an issue in
the foreseeable future and Maplewood was currently under construction. He asked if Madrona was part
of the school district's long range capital plan. Bret Carlstadt, Edmonds School District, 20420 68th
Avenue W, responded the Edmonds School District was in a master planning process that considered the
structural and programmatic aspects of all schools. He said the planning horizon for any
renovation/upgrade of Madrona was in excess of 6-8 years.
Councilmember Petso recalled the initial Planning Board recommendation was a threshold for churches
of 250 people attending a service. She questioned how that translated to a square foot threshold and said
it appeared the threshold had been raised considerably. Mr. Chave said there was no way to equate the
number of people attending a service to square feet. He said a square footage threshold was used as it
was the only objective information used in the Traffic Engineering manual; there was nothing related to
the number of people attending a service. Mr. Snyder clarified the change from number of people
attending a service to a threshold based on square footage was made to avoid any discrimination between
schools and churches.
Councilmember Orvis asked whether any of the churches that exceeded 22,000 feet were not located on
an arterial. Mr. Chave said most were on arterials. Councilmember Orvis inquired about the CUP
process for churches located on an arterial. Mr. Chave answered a traffic study would likely be required,
as well as consideration of parking management, access, location of the building, site planning, etc.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 23, 2001
Page 11
Councilmember Orvis asked whether the review process could be triggered by expansion rather than a
five-year review. Mr. Snyder pointed out .all churches provide a wide variety of services and may add
programs that occur on other days than Friday, Saturday or Sunday. Using a time period (i.e. five years)
provides a snapshot of the church's programs. He said a church submitting a building permit to expand
the use would also be reviewed by staff.
Councilmember Orvis asked what the negative impacts would be of allowing churches to locate on an
arterial without a CUP. Mr. Chave answered the biggest concern would be traffic. Management of
traffic onto arterials required careful review. Mr. Snyder said parking lots, signalization, circulation, etc.
were also important considerations. Councilmember Orvis asked if that could be addressed in the code
rather than a CUP process. Mr. Chave said the code could require a traffic study for expansion of
facilities on arterials rather than a CUP. Mr. Snyder explained the CUP process was suggested because if
a higher performance standard than churches were currently meeting was established, they would all
become non -conforming, thereby not allowing them to expand without losing their non -conforming
status. The purpose of the CUP was to allow a periodic review to impose performance criteria
appropriate to the current impacts of the facility.
Responding to Councilmember Plunkett's questions, Mr. Snyder said the Hearing Examiner would hold
the open record hearing, in one case it was the first CUP hearing and in the second it was an appeal of a
staff decision. Both hearings before the Hearing Examiner constitute the open record hearing; the appeal
to the Council would be on the record established by the Hearing Examiner (a closed record hearing
before the Council). Councilmember Plunkett observed the CUP was the safety valve for citizens and
the appeal would ultimately be to the Council.
Councilmember Petso referred to audience comments regarding the cost of the CUP and associated
traffic studies, etc. if a CUP process were adopted. Mr. Chave estimated the cost was approximately
$1,000. Councilmember Petso observed the CUP would require those facilities impacted by the five-
year review to pay $1,000 every five years. Mr. Chave answered that would be the minimum and
additional costs would depend on what changes had occurred. Councilmember Petso said if major
changes had occurred, additional costs could be incurred for traffic studies, etc. Mr. Chave agreed,
commenting there could be additional costs such as staff time to prepare documentation, etc.
Council President Earling thanked staff for their efforts to address the numerous issues raised the last
time this matter was discussed. He supported moving the proposed ordinance to a public hearing. He
preferred Option 1 as a compromise and said it would provide a good basis for holding a public hearing
and allow the public to address possible peculiarities that had not been foreseen.
Mr. Snyder advised the City Clerk received a letter from Bret Carlstadt, Edmonds School District. As
tonight's discussion was not advertised as a public hearing, he recommended the letter be held for the
public hearing and .distributed in the Council packet so the public could respond to it.
Mr. Chave requested Council direction regarding whether the existing exception for gymnasiums
attached to schools and church steeples/towers should be retained in the ordinance for the public hearing.
Mr. Chave said the existing language allowed up to 35 feet for a school gymnasium. He suggested
retaining the language for the public hearing because it if was removed, it could not be discussed at the
public hearing.
Hearing no further questions for staff, Mayor Haakenson remanded the matter to Council for
deliberation.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 23, 2001
Page 12
Councilmember Petso agreed it was time to move this forward for a public hearing. She preferred the
language regarding increased height be removed and a CUP required. She said churches and schools
located in view corridors had the potential to block views if increased height were allowed and a CUP
process could allow the impacts to be mitigated. She preferred Option 1 and requiring a CUP process for
increased height.
Councilmember Davis agreed with forwarding Option 1 for a public hearing as that option would address
the few schools and churches that did not meet the permitted use threshold. He agreed with
Councilmember Petso's concern regarding height but preferred the language be retained in the ordinance
for the public hearing to allow the public to address it.
Councilmember Orvis preferred Option 1 and strongly recommended the ordinance maintain the same
height for all facilities with the possible exception of church steeples. He pointed out the possibility of a
legal issue by allowing a school to exceed the height limit for a gymnasium and not allowing the same
for churches.
Councilmember Plunkett reminded the decision before the Council was whether to forward a revised
draft ordinance to public hearing, not make a final decision. A public hearing would allow the public to
provide input and further consideration by the Council.
COUNCILMEMBER PLUNKETT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER DAVIS, THAT
THE COUNCIL ENDORSE OPTION 1, RETAINING THE HEIGHT LANGUAGE AS
SUGGESTED BY THE PLANNING BOARD AND DIRECT STAFF TO PREPARE A REVISED
DRAFT ORDINANCE FOR CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING. COUNCIL PRESIDENT
EARLING IS TO ESTABLISH A DATE FOR THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Council President Earling scheduled the public hearing for Tuesday, February 20, 2001.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
10. MAYOR'S REPORT
Mayor Haakenson had no report.
11. INDIVIDUAL COUNCIL REPORTS/UPDATES ON RESPECTIVE BOARD MEETINGS
ound
ransit Council President Earling reported Sound Transit signed off last Friday on a $500 million federal grant
to assist in building the light rail project. He advised Sound Transit's Executive Director Bob White
resigned today.
nocom Councilmember Plunkett reported the SnoCom Board received a compliment for one of its dispatchers
oard who provided CPR instruction over the telephone to a person administering CPR. The family in distress
credited the SnoCom dispatcher with saving the person's life over the telephone. He said the SnoCom
dispatchers are very well qualified and certified to the highest standard.
Councilmember Plunkett reported concern was raised again with delays experienced when transferring
calls between SnoCom and SnoPac (the dispatch center serving Mukilteo, Everett and other areas of
Snohomish County) and a suggestion was made to consolidate SnoCom and SnoPac. Consolidation was
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 23, 2001
Page 13
considered in 1998 and a decision not to consolidate at that time was made. The Board agreed
procedures could be established and technology utilized in the short term to reduce delays. It was agreed
consolidation of the agencies should be considered in the long term.
Human Councilmember Orvis reported Councilmember Davis was elected chair of the Comprehensive Human
Resources Resource Committee. The committee discussed a proposal (funded in the 2001 budget) to upgrade one
Committee I member of the Building Division to Assistant Building Official. A minor cost is involved and the matter
will be presented to the Council on a future agenda. The committee recommended approval of the
upgrade.
odging Tax Councilmember Petso reported one of the conclusions at the January Lodging Tax Advisory Committee
aysory was to undertake an effort to improve the web presence of the City's lodging facilities on the City's web
ommittee page and the Chamber's in an effort to increase lodging tax revenue. She said City staff was already
working on revisions to the web page.
With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 9:15 p.m.
SANDRA S. CHASE, CITY CLERK
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
January 23, 2001
Page 14
1
AGENDA
EDMONDS CITY COUNCIL
Council Chambers, Public Safety Complex
250 511 Avenue North
7:00 -10:00 p.m.
JANUARY 23, 2001
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 JANUARY 16, 2001
(C) APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS #45721 THROUGH #45887 FOR THE WEEK OF JANUARY 8, 2001 (FINAL
2000 WARRANT RUN -PART 1), IN THE AMOUNT OF $501,259.34. APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS
#45600 THROUGH #45949 FOR THE WEEK OF JANUARY 15, 2001 (FINAL 2000 WARRANT RUN -PART II),
IN THE AMOUNT OF $872,692.95. APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS #45950 THROUGH #46051 FOR THE
WEEK OF JANUARY 15, 2001, IN THE AMOUNT OF $75,142.09. APPROVAL OF PAYROLL CHECKS
#32202 THROUGH #31104 FOR THE PERIOD JANUARY 1 THROUGH JANUARY 15, 2001, IN THE
AMOUNT OF $452,358.13.
(D) PROCLAMATION IN HONOR OF TOASTMASTERS WEEK, JANUARY 28 — FEBRUARY 3, 2001
(E) AUTHORIZATION FOR MAYOR TO SIGN RECREATIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH THE SOUTH
COUNTY SENIOR CENTER
(F) AUTHORIZATION FOR MAYOR TO SIGN A TWO-YEAR LEASE FOR SEVEN (7) 2001 FORD CROWN
VICTORIA POLICE CARS WITH FINANCIAL CONSULTANTS INTERNATIONAL, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF
$192,850.00
3.
AUDIENCE COMMENTS (3 Minute Limit Per Person)
4. (20 Min.)
UPDATE ON CABLE TV TRANSITION FROM CHAMBERS CABLE TO AT&T BROADBAND
5. ( 5 Min.)
REPORT ON FINAL CONSTRUCTION COSTS AND RESULTS OF THE ENERGY IMPROVEMENTS AT THE
TREATMENT PLANT
6. ( 5 Min.)
REPORT ON FINAL CONSTRUCTION COSTS AND PERFORMANCE OF THE UPGRADES TO THE
KLAMPRESSES AT THE TREATMENT PLANT
7. (10 Min.)
DONATION OF FIRE MEMORIAL AMENITY FOR PUBLIC SAFETY COMPLEX SITE
8. (30 Min.)
PRESENTATION BY THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING STAKEHOLDERS SUBCOMMITTEE OF HEALTHY
COMMUNITIES
9. (60 Min.)
WORK SESSION — PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE EDMONDS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CODE
CREATING NEW CHAPTERS 17.40.050 (NON -CONFORMING COMMUNITY FACILITIES), AND 17.65
(PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR COMMUNITY FACILITIES), AND AMENDING CHAPTERS: 16.20 — RS
(SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL); 16.30 — RM (MULTIPLE RESIDENTIAL); 16.45 — BN (NEIGHBORHOOD
BUSINESS; 16.50 — BC (COMMUNITY BUSINESS); 16.53 — BP (PLANNED BUSINESS); 16.55 — CW
(COMMERCIAL WATERFRONT); 16.61 — MU (MEDICAL USE); 16.80 — P (PUBLIC USE); AND CHAPTER 21
(DEFINITIONS).
10. ( 5 Min.)
MAYOR'S REPORT
11. (15 Min.)
INDIVIDUAL COUNCIL REPORTS/UPDATES ON RESPECTIVE BOARD MEETINGS
Parking and meeting rooms are accessible for persons with disabilities.
Contact the City Clerk at (425) 771-0245 with 24 hours advance notice for special accommodations.
The Council Agenda as well as a delayed telecast of the meeting appears on AT&T Cable, Channel 21.