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09/17/2001 City CouncilEDMONDS CITY COUNCIL APPROVED MINUTES September 17, 2001 Following a Special Meeting at 5:30 p.m. to interview three candidates for the position of Chief of Police, the Edmonds City Council meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Haakenson in the Council Chambers, 250 51h Avenue North, Edmonds. The meeting was opened with the flag salute. ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT Gary Haakenson, Mayor Dave Earling, Council President Thomas A. Miller, Councilmember Michael Plunkett, Councilmember Lora Petso, Councilmember Dave Orvis, Councilmember Richard Marin, Councilmember 1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA STAFF PRESENT Tom Tomberg, Fire Chief Greg Wean, Acting Police Chief Peggy Hetzler, Administrative Services Director Dave Gebert, City Engineer Sandy Chase, City Clerk Jana Spellman, Senior Executive Council Asst. Jeannie Dines, Recorder Change to COUNCIL PRESIDENT EARLING MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER ORVIS, TO ':Agenda AMEND THE AGENDA TO ADD AS AGENDA ITEM 1(A) AN EXECUTIVE SESSION REGARDING A PERSONNEL ISSUE. THE EXECUTIVE SESSION WILL LAST 5 MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Council President Earling indicated action would be taken following the Executive Session. COUNCILMEMBER MARIN MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MILLER, FOR APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA AS AMENDED. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Executive Mayor Haakenson recessed the Council to Executive Session at 7:03 p.m. The meeting was reconvened session at 7:11 p.m. Council President Earling explained the Council met earlier this evening to interview three finalists for the Chief of Police position. Confirm and Appoint COUNCILMEMBER MILLER MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MARIN, TO David Stem CONFIRM AND APPOINT COMMANDER DAVID STERN, OF THE SANTA MARIA POLICE as Police DEPARTMENT, AS THE NEW POLICE CHIEF OF EDMONDS, WASHINGTON. MOTION Chief CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Councilmember Miller, who served on the Police Chief Selection Committee, commented he was very impressed with Commander Stern whose significant experience in the operation and administration fields would benefit the Edmonds Police Department. Councilmember Miller commented Commander Stern had been with the Santa Maria Police Department for 20 years, and would be an excellent fit for the City. Mayor Haakenson introduced and congratulated Commander Stern. Commander Stern said it was a great honor and privilege to be selected from several qualified candidates. He looked forward to getting to know the Council, learning about issues, and working with the department and the community. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 17, 2001 Page 1 r Approve 9/11/01 Minutes pprove laim Checks Claim for Damages General and Report j�erline cement am Snohomish Regional Drug Task Force Res# 1010 Delaring One Siren Surplus Public Hearing on Proposed Amendment o the City F Mayor Haakenson said some of the comments he heard when doing the background check on Commander Stern were that he set high standards and expectations and helped individuals develop, he accomplishes things, and he was described as a professional and not a micro -manager. Eight different people he interviewed described Commander Stern as having the highest integrity and as a fair and consistent individual. Commander Stern was also described as "a Police Officer's Police Officer" which Mayor Haakenson said was likely the highest praise Commander Stern could receive from his Police Department. 2. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS COUNCIL PRESIDENT EARLING MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER MARIN, FOR APPROVAL 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 SEPTEMBER 11, 2001 (C) APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS #50544 THROUGH #50647 FOR THE WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 10, 2001, IN THE AMOUNT OF $105,760.34 (D) ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF CLAIM FOR DAMAGES FROM JAMES AND JACKIE ROTHAUS (Undetermined Amount) (E) REPORT ON THE GENERAL FUND AND OTHER SELECTED FUNDS FINANCIAL POSITION FOR THE MONTH ENDED JULY 2001 (F) REPORT ON BIDS OPENED SEPTEMBER 7, 2001, FOR THE 2001 WATERLINE REPLACEMENT PROGRAM, AND AWARD OF CONTRACT TO MARSHBANK CONSTRUCTION, INC. ($495,741.52, Including Sales Tax) (G) AUTHORIZATION FOR MAYOR TO SIGN AN INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT ESTABLISHING SNOHOMISH REGIONAL DRUG TASK FORCE (H) RESOLUTION NO. 1010 DECLARING ONE SIREN TO BE SURPLUSED TO THE NEEDS OF THE CITY, WITHOUT A REASONABLE COMMERCIAL VALUE, AND AUTHORIZING THE STAFF TO DONATE SAID PROPERTY TO THE EDMONDS SOUTH SNOHOMISH COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY IN CONSIDERATION OF ITS MAINTENANCE WITHIN THE CITY OF EDMONDS FOR HISTORIC AND EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES 3. INTRODUCTION OF NEW STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE MEREDITH STOREY Council President Earling advised the new Student Representative was not present and would be introduced at the next Council meeting. 4. PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE CITY CODE THAT WOULD REQUIRE CATS TO BE LICENSED THAT ALL STRAY DOGS AND CATS ADOPTED OUT BY THE CITY'S CONTRACTING ANIMAL SHELTER BE ALTERED, AND ESTABLISHING AN ANIMAL BENEFIT FUND IN THE CITY'S OPERATING BUDGET THAT WOULD PAY FOR THE ALTERING OF STRAY ANIMALS TO BE ADOPTED. Mayor Haakenson advised this item was informational only and the Council would not take any action. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 17, 2001 Page 2 Councilmember Plunkett expressed his thanks to Jim and Lynn Adix, Adix Bed and Bath (the City's contracting animal shelter), Acting Police Chief Wean, and Councilmember Petso, who have assisted in the review of this issue. Councilmember Plunkett commented the City was fortunate to have such a well managed, caring facility like Adix Bed and Bath providing these services for the City. Councilmember Plunkett explained this item has been under review for nearly a year and acknowledged this was an emotional issue. He explained one of the issues that had been discussed and an issue the Council was seeking input on, was the $5 per year licensing of cats. He explained the license was designed to identify an owner of an animal and make it easier for animal control to return animals to their owners. The Council was also seeking input regarding the altering of stray animals. He clarified the proposal was to alter stray or surrendered animals before they were adopted out into the community. To avoid placing an undue burden on the contractor, the proposal also includes an Animal Benefit Fund that would pay for altering before an animal was adopted. The fund would also provide vouchers to provide financial assistance for individuals wanting to alter an animal. Kay Joubert, Programs Manager, Progressive Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), commented that during the six years she has been in the animal welfare industry, she has had the privilege of working with several other municipalities and counties during their review of animal control ordinances. She explained her goal was to provide the Council with accurate information to allow them to make decisions based on facts that would provide the community a safer environment for animals and the citizens who care for them. She explained PAWS has provided animal welfare services to the greater Snohomish County community for over 35 years and have adopted over 100,000 cats, dogs and rabbits to local residents since 1967. This year PAWS assisted over 2,500 lost or homeless animals to be returned to their homes or find new homes. She noted PAWS provided animal shelter services to Edmonds for several years so they are familiar with the challenges faced by the community. Ms. Joubert reviewed the four points Councilmember Plunkett recommended for consideration: Cat Licensing: Ms. Joubert explained Edmonds Animal Control Officers support the concept of cat licensing, and she assumed one reason was because the Officers recognized that a license assisted in returning an animal to the owner. Ms. Joubert explained when a dog gets loose and ends up at a local shelter facility, approximately 50% are returned to their families because they have traceable identification. Unfortunately for cats brought to a shelter, less than 3% are reunited with their families because they have no form of traceable identification. She explained when animals are licensed, citizens receive a direct service for their tax dollars — they receive a license that identifies their cat as a member of their household and ensures that the shelter service or animal control officer can contact the family. Ms. Joubert pointed out cat licensing was not a trend setting idea; many other communities within Snohomish County already require cat licensing. Like the City of Edmonds, Snohomish County is also in the process of updating their ordinance to include mandatory cat licensing. Altering Companion Animals Prior to Adoption: Ms. Joubert advised Councilmember Plunkett raised this issue at Public Safety Committee meetings because dogs who are altered are three times less likely to bite. Therefore, a safer environment could be created by requiring adopted dogs to be altered. She cited the Journal of American Veterinary Medical Association who reported that un-neutered male dogs are involved in up to 76% of the reported dog bite incidents. The Centers for Disease Control states that "dogs should be neutered to reduce aggressive tendencies." The American Veterinary Medical Association reinforced this by pointing out that "unsprayed females may attract free roaming males which increase bite risk to people through increased exposure to unfamiliar dogs." She noted that since Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 17, 2001 Page 3 children comprised more than 60% of the dog bite victims in the country, there is merit to requiring adopted dogs to be altered thereby creating a safer environment for -children and all citizens. Ms. Joubert noted altering adopted animals before they returned to the community was an industry standard for any shelter or shelter service provider and was a concept supported by the American Veterinary Association, the National Animal Control Association as well as other major agencies including the Washington State Federation of Animal Care and Control Agencies. Altering an animal before it left a shelter was a direct way to solve the problem of unwanted litters. She noted Councilmember Plunkett had discussed a tentative plan with the City's shelter provider and local veterinarians. Local Veterinarians Providing Spay and Neuter Services: By implementing this ordinance change, a citizen going to Adix to adopt a homeless animal would see many companions who were already altered and ready to go home. Ms. Joubert emphasized stray animals that were reclaimed by their owner during the legal window of opportunity would not be altered prior to return to their family. She agreed these families should be encouraged to alter their animal as a means to decrease the chances of the animal getting loose and ending up at the shelter again. Ms. Joubert explained another important benefit to altering animals was decreasing the community problem of euthanizing homeless animals. Last year over 4,000 were killed in the community because there were not enough homes. As animals do not recognize city boundaries, unaltered animals in Edmonds were a component to this overpopulation problem. She said when a citizen wished to relinquish an animal, they must go to a shelter or shelter service provider outside Edmonds who are already dealing with more animals than can be successfully placed in homes. Animal Benefit Fund: The proposal also includes the creation of an "Animal Benefit Fund." This fund would be created to provide revenue to support altering of companion animals adopted from the shelter service provider. The fund would also provide citizens with a means to directly support an animal welfare activity that is sponsored by the City. She indicated Seattle and Everett as well as Snohomish County and King County have established similar funds. Representatives from these communities agree their funds were a positive method of helping animals and people in the community. The representatives also remarked on the surprising volume of donations they receive. She briefly described Seattle and Everett's Animal Benefit Funds. Ms. Joubert summarized the proposal included mandatory licenses for cats such as were currently required for dogs and would require the shelter service provider to alter animals before the animals were adopted. She reiterated stray animals that were reclaimed by their guardians within the legal window of reclamation would not be altered. She explained by soliciting the local veterinary community to provide spay and neuter services was a means of directing City business to small businesses within the Edmonds community. The development of an Animal Benefit Fund ensures monies would be available to pay for the altering of adopted animals and would allow citizens the opportunity to donate in support of efforts by the City to promote responsible pet ownership and the care of animals in their community. Councilmember Petso stated requiring cat licensing could be accomplished via amending the code to require an annual license for cats or the voluntary lifetime license could be made mandatory. She questioned why the annual licensing option for cats was preferred. Ms. Joubert said other communities indicated it was primarily database integrity — pet owners move, animals die, pet owners forget to renew licenses, etc. Therefore, the annual license was a method of ensuring information was accurate to assist in the reunion of animals and their owners. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 17, 2001 Page 4 Councilmember Petso inquired why public funding versus private funding for the Animal Benefit Fund was proposed. She noted the information provided indicated one city received a gift of $265,000 to their Animal Benefit Fund. She said if the City received such a gift, additional funds from the city would likely not be necessary. Ms. Joubert said public funding indicated the City was making a commitment to be more humane and create a safer environment and to ensure that happened by putting City funds into an Animal Benefit Fund. Councilmember Petso asked how long the "window of opportunity" was for an owner to pick up an animal before it was spayed or neutered or put up for adoption without the owner's knowledge or consent. Ms. Joubert said the standard was typically three days for any animal without traceable identification. The window for an animal with traceable identification was typically ten days. If the community had concerns with this time period, the window of opportunity could be lengthened. Councilmember Orvis inquired about the cost and effectiveness of micro -chipping animals. Ms. Joubert explained because micro -chipping was a surgical implantation of identification (done by a veterinarian), many communities do not choose this as their primary method of identifying animals. She estimated the average cost of micro -chipping a cat to be $15—$35. Councilmember Orvis inquired whether micro -chipping could be used in the City's current system. Ms. Joubert was uncertain if the City's shelter service provider had a scanner and indicated they could obtain one free of charge. In response to Councilmember Petso's inquiry, Acting Police Chief Greg Wean agreed the "window of opportunity" for an owner to pick up an animal was 72 hours, although Adix has sometimes kept dogs up to a month before putting them up for adoption. He advised the Police Department did not object to cat licensing and the Animal Control Officers indicated they would be pleased to utilize that information to return cats to their owners. He commented the City was able to reunite approximately 12% of the cats brought to the shelter. Acting Chief Wean explained the Police Department did not intend to enforce the proposed ordinance requiring cats to be licensed because the Police Department did not have the personnel to handle the additional workload. He said the Police Department would not pursue cats to ensure they were licensed, would not require cats that are picked up to be licensed, or penalize the pet owner for not licensing their cat. Acting Chief Wean advised the Police Department had no objection to the concept of altering animals. Their primary concern was maintaining the contract the City has with Adix Kennel. If the City owned its own shelter, the Police Department would support altering all animals other than those used for hunting, show or breeding. He noted the Police Department promotes altering of animals by distributing a pamphlet recommending pets be altered. He referred to the ACES program, conducted by an Animal Control Officer, that teaches second graders to care for pets including encouraging them to have pets altered. He explained their discussions with Adix indicated they did not object to having animals altered but as a private kennel, contracting with the City to provide these services as a way of giving back to the community, did not want to inform the public their pets must be altered. He reiterated the Police Department's primary concern was that the amendment to the ordinance would impact the City's contract with Adix. Acting Chief Wean described the increased costs to the City if Adix's contract was terminated, including fuel to travel to a shelter outside the City ($1,966 per year), wages for an employee to be away from the City to travel to the shelter ($37,050), and an additional $19,920 in shelter fees. He summarized the cost Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 17, 2001 Page 5 for kenneling would increase from the 2002 contract amount of $18,090 to $58,966 per year. In addition, citizens would no longer be able to claim their animal at Adix but have to travel to Everett. Acting Chief Wean advised approximately 1,891 dog licenses were issued in 2000, of those, 130 were for unaltered dogs. Of the 130 unaltered dogs, 18 were mixed breeds. The Animal Control Officers indicated the remaining 112 were hunting, show or breeding dogs. Of the 1,782 dog licenses issued through June 2001, only 12 were for unaltered mixed breed dogs. Acting Chief Wean advised the Police Department had no objection to the proposal to establish an Animal Benefit Fund and would happily distribute vouchers at the time licenses were issued as well as supply the vouchers to Adix. Councilmember Plunkett agreed everyone wanted to retain the contract with Adix. He clarified the Police Department supported the policies but was concerned with the potential loss of the contract with Adix. Acting Chief Wean agreed. Councilmember Petso questioned adopting an ordinance that the Police Department had no intention.of enforcing. She questioned whether this was a common practice. Acting Chief Wean said the City did not typically adopt ordinances that were unenforceable. In this instance, there is simply not enough personnel in the Police Department to enforce cat licensing. Councilmember Petso referred to the number of unaltered animals that were licensed and asked whether the Police Department had the personnel to contact those individuals to encourage them to have the animal altered. Acting Police Chief Wean answered the Police Department had the information to make that contact. Council President Earling commented on the $40,000 per year in increased costs. Councilmember Plunkett clarified there was no cost to the amendment to the ordinance other than the $4,000 for the Animal Benefit Fund. The increase would result if the contract with Adix were terminated. Council President Earling asked how the cost to transport animals to local veterinaries would be addressed. Acting Chief Wean agreed there would be a need to transport animals to a veterinarian for altering but that issue had not been addressed. Councilmember Marin inquired about the degree of the problem with stray animals in Edmonds. Acting Chief Wean answered there were a lot of stray cats. Animal Control traps these feral cats as often as possible, however, the 2.5 FTE of animal control/parking enforcement staff is limited in its ability to keep up with parking enforcement as well as enforcement of dog licensing issues. Councilmember Marin asked how cat licensing would assist with the amount of feral cats. Acting Chief Wean answered it would not necessarily help with feral cats but would assist with the return of cats to their owners. Jim Adix, Adix Bed and Bath, explained he has been providing kennel services for approximately 31 years. He agreed most dogs should be altered. He reported 95% of the 5,000 privately owned dogs they have boarded this year were altered. He commented spaying and neutering tended to be a lifestyle issue. He cautioned his facility was a boarding and grooming facility, not a shelter. His is a private enterprise and not a non-profit operation. Their goal was to make a living as well as provide a service to the City. He reported last year they adopted out 135 dogs and cats. He estimated if half would require altering prior to adoption, all this effort had been over 65 animals per year. He encouraged PAWS representatives and the community to visit their kennel. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 17, 2001 Page 6 Mr. Adix said he agreed with the concept of spay and neutering but questioned whether it should be legislated. He did not support requiring altering unless the City paid for it. He advised they did not have the facilities to do spay and neutering at their kennel. He said they provide a free grooming voucher for people who have their pet spayed or neutered. He estimated 75-85% of the 135 animals adopted out last year were spayed or neutered. Councilmember Plunkett asked Mr. Adix whether he would support requiring adopted animals to be altered if the City paid for it. Mr. Adix agreed. Councilmember Plunkett pointed out the proposal includes an Animal Benefit Fund to pay for spay and neuter services. He noted there was agreement on nearly all issues other than transport. He asked Mr. Adix if he would be willing to transport animals to a nearby vet, approximately one -mile away, for altering prior to adoption. Mr. Adix answered he did more than his part for animal control in Edmonds and would not be willing to provide transport. Councilmember Petso thanked Mr. Adix for the service he provides to the City, noting she was not interested in expanding that service particularly without compensation. She commented it was a convenience to Edmonds citizens to be able to pickup their animals locally. She asked whether there was a potential for the City to lose the contract with Adix if the Council adopted the ordinance in its present form. Mr. Adix answered not as he understands it but he would need to review the ordinance more thoroughly. Upon further questioning by Councilmember Plunkett, Mr. Adix said if the City required every animal that was adopted out to be spayed or neutered, the City would need to find another facility. Councilmember Miller asked whether Mr. Adix would be willing to negotiate with the City for transport if the ordinance was adopted. Mr. Adix answered there were services that provide transport; animal transport was not a service he provided. He commented there was a mobile spay/neuter clinic that could be parked nearby to provide those services. Councilmember Miller expressed his thanks to Mr. Adix for the services he provides to the City. Mayor Haakenson commented their veterinarian did not recommend "break -away" collars and recommended he microchip their cat when her paw became entangled in its "break -away" collar. Mr. Adix commented they remove all collars when an animal comes to their kennel to avoid any problems. He said they have a scanner and they and Animal Control staff were delighted whenever an animal was discovered to have a chip so that the animal could be returned to their owner. He noted many pet owners did not reclaim cats that arrived at their facility. COUNCILMEMBER PLUNKETT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PETSO, TO EXTEND DISCUSSION OF THIS ITEM FOR 20 MINUTES. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Mayor Haakenson opened the public participation portion of the public hearing. He advised the Council received a letter in the packet from Dave and Jane Shannon who were supportive of the proposal. A letter was also submitted by Cate Callahan in support of the proposal and an email was received from Marilyn Grey expressing support for the proposal. Ralph Turner, 8716 Talbot Road, Edmonds, said the proposed ordinance would illustrate how ethically responsive the Council was to the overpopulation of companion animals in Edmonds. He commented on the suffering that homeless animals endure. He supported altering of feral cats, noting it was not possible to adopt a feral cat. He said the ordinance would also show that Edmonds was a Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 17, 2001 Page 7 progressive City that mandated all companion animals be altered upon adoption. He cited the benefits of altering, such as: animals were less likely to stray and/or be aggressive, and the reduced incidence of disease. Incidents that occurred at the off -lease dog area were usually the result of unaltered male dogs. He commented there were citizens who would be willing to provide transport for animals to be altered. He urged the Council to make Edmonds a progressive City that required altering of adopted animals. David Rubanowice, 22911 102"d Place W, Edmonds, spoke in favor of the proposal. He said the proposal would contribute to reducing the number of strays and assist with returning as many animals as possible to their owners. He commented it may be interesting to explore requiring micro -chipping. He encouraged the Council to support the proposal. Kip Parker, 8819 236th Street SW, Edmonds, Wildlife Director for PAWS, supported the proposed change to require altering of pets prior to adoption. He commented Edmonds' topography provided a huge array of wildlife habitat but stray animals cause an enormous problem for wildlife. Approximately 15% of the 5,000 wild animals received at the Lynnwood Wildlife Center per year are identified as cat attack victims. Any efforts to reduce the number of stray cats would protect Washington wildlife. He encouraged the Council to consider this issue during their deliberations. Joe Galbrett, 15818 681h Ave W, Edmonds, a volunteer for PAWS, said citizens of Edmonds, including himself, would be willing to provide animal transport. Dr. John Huckabee, 17114 761h Avenue W, Edmonds, wildlife veterinarian for PAWS, spoke in favor of the amendments to the ordinance. He commented spay and neutering services were often a "loss leader" for veterinarian clinics and one of the primary benefits would be to connect pet owners with a veterinarian for lifetime care. He noted the statistics provided by Acting Police Chief Wean indicated only 6% of the total licenses issued in 2000 and 2001 were for unaltered pets; however, approximately 50% of the 100 dogs impounded from January to June were unaltered. Therefore, it would be beneficial to alter animals prior to adoption. Christine Smith, 22720 96rh Avenue W, Edmonds, commented there were a lot of strays in the City. She described a very ill, starving stray cat she encountered recently, noting it was difficult for cats to survive on their own. She agreed there were people in Edmonds who would volunteer to provide transport for the animals to be altered. Roger Hertrich, 1020 Puget Drive, Edmonds, said his concern was hunting and show dogs that may get loose and picked up by Animal Control, commenting it could "ruin a good dog" if such a dog were forced to be altered. He noted some dogs were kept unaltered for breeding, hunting, or show purposes. He objected to the amount of government in this issue and objected to being lobbied from outside the City. He said the problem was cats, not the few unaltered dogs. He said establishing a fund to trap cats would eliminate 90% of the complaints regarding loose animals. He suggested the requirement to alter dogs be eliminated from the proposal and efforts directed toward catching cats. He also suggested the City consider whether it could afford this. Paula Seward, 7926 192"d Place SW, Edmonds, encouraged the Council to support the spay/neuter proposal for adopted animals. She commented on the benefits pets provide and urged the Council to support a proposal that would save animals from a fate they did not deserve and give them a chance to provide love and companionship. Elaine Yard, 9209 Olympic View Drive, commented this was a volatile issue for many people, some of whom were not here tonight. She said Lynnwood had a life -of -the -animal cat license. She noted most Edmonds.City Council Approved Minutes September 17, 2001 Page 8 animals were micro -chipped in Lynnwood and suggested this also be done in Edmonds. Regarding the requirement to have an animal altered, she recalled a dog they adopted who died prematurely due to altering. She preferred issuing vouchers to pet owners so that they could choose the veterinarian that would provide spay/neuter services. Mayor Haakenson closed the public participation portion of the public hearing. Council President Earling asked Mr. Adix whether a PAWS representative visited his kennel without identifying themselves. Mr. Adix answered a representative looked over the kennel but did not introduce themselves. In response to a comment made by Mr. Hertrich, Councilmember Miller clarified spay/neuter would only be required for stray animals that were adopted. Councilmember Plunkett agreed. Councilmember Plunkett indicated this item was presented to the Council for information only. Further discussion will be required during budget deliberations regarding funding for the Animal Benefit Fund. 5. AUDIENCE COMMENTS Kay Joubert, Programs Manager, Progressive Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), stated more animals die due to the lack of identification than do cats from a collar. She clarified PAWS as well as the rest of the humane community supported micro -chipping as a safe, responsible means of returning animals to their owners. Regarding their visit to the Adix facility, she indicated they have contacted Adix on a number of occasions as they do other facilities, often as a casual observer. She indicated she would take Mr. Adix up on his offer to tour his facility. Regarding the dangers of the spay/neuter procedure, she assured more animals died from not being altered than animals who were altered. Roger Hertrich, 1020 Puget Drive, Edmonds, pointed out the danger of an animal that got loose and whose owner may be unaware because they are away, being altered before the owner had an opportunity to pick-up the animal. He referred to the statistics that indicate how few unaltered animals are picked up, indicating this was a large discussion over a small issue. Ralph Turner, 8716 Talbot Road, Edmonds, said any owner who was unaware their dog was missing for five days was not a responsible pet owner. If a hunting dog was that important, it would not be left unattended. Elaine Yard, 1020 Olympic View Drive, Edmonds, referred to another dog who required hormone therapy for the remainder of her life after being altered when she was too young. 6. REPORT ON CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE MEETINGS Community Services/ Community Service/Development Services Committee Development Councilmember Orvis reported on a presentation of the Edmonds Crossing/Pine Street Traffic Study. Services Committee Four options will be presented to the Council on September 25, full closure, a gate, traffic signals, and better enforcement of traffic laws. Staff plans to recommend the gate option. Staff then described a proposal to incorporate art elements into sidewalk repairs in the downtown area. Funding for the art elements would be provided by nearby property owners or funding for public art. Next, staff reported a traffic calming test case at 881h Avenue West and 1881h Street SW was unsuccessful and would be removed. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 17, 2001 Page 9 lic Public Safety Committee ty Councilmember Petso reported the first item discussed was a request by the Police Department for the mittee Mayor to sign an interlocal agreement to establish the Snohomish Regional Drug Task Force. This item was approved as Item G on the Consent Agenda. Second, Fire Chief Tomberg described the history of radio communication problems between fire units and SnoCom Dispatch that hopefully the 800 MHz system will resolve and, if not, Chief Tomberg will provide alternate suggestions. Third, Fire Chief Tomberg reported on upcoming budget requests including promoting three Battalion Chiefs (promote from within the department to fill the promotional vacancies, and hire three entry-level paramedic/firefighters). Fire Chief Tomberg then reported on the progress toward integration of Medic 7 paramedics into the Edmonds and Lynnwood Fire Departments. The plan was to have the integration complete as early as January; staff and equipment would be split evenly between Edmonds and Lynnwood to allow Medic 7 services to continue to be provided to citizens. Chief Tomberg reported the new ladder truck would be placed into service very soon and that the aid unit replacement was proceeding according to schedule. Chief Tomberg discussed the Fire Department's lack of success with federal grants to date and reported on an EMS grant the Fire Department was pursuing. The final item discussed by the Public Safety Committee was a discussion of the City's emergency response system in general as well as the City's emergency response to the events of September 11, 2001. Councilmember Petso explained the City's emergency response was on a department -by -department basis, directed by Fire Chief Tomberg and Mayor Haakenson with Councilmembers having no formal role in the response. 7. MAYOR'S COMMENTS Mayor Haakenson thanked the Council for their confirmation of Commander Stern as the City's new Police Chief. Lions Club Mayor Haakenson offered his thanks to the Lions Club who was solely responsible for all the flags Flags displayed on downtown streets since last Tuesday's tragic event. He suggested the public express their thanks to Lions Club members and was certain they would appreciate any donations toward that effort. Mayor Haakenson expressed his thanks to those who telephoned or emailed him with community Memorial at ire Station memorial ideas. The memorial at the Fire Station on Saturday was very moving and he commended 17 Captain Bob Schmitt for planning the event. He reported he has received many telephone calls and emails thanking the City for the inspiration provided by the flags and memorials at the fountain. He acknowledged the City's part in the process was limited; it was the citizens of Edmonds who have come together as many communities have in the past few days. Firefighter Andy Speier Assisting Mayor Haakenson reported Edmonds Firefighter Andy Speier left for New York (at his own expense) to With Rescue assist with the rescue effort. Mr. Speier came to Edmonds from New York and is friends with many of Errors o the victims and those who are missing. He invited the public to keep Mr. Speier in their thoughts and ew fork g• p p p g prayers. 8. COUNCIL COMMENTS emorial at Council President Earling concurred with Mayor Haakenson's comments regarding the memorial service station on Saturday. He said although the memorial was originally intended to commemorate the passing of an Edmonds Firefighter, it incorporated the tragic event that occurred last Tuesday. He expressed his thanks to the Fire Department for the time and energy to provide a positive memory to the community. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 17, 2001 Page 10 Council President Earling expressed his pleasure at the spontaneous displays of nationalism he has observed in the past week. Budget Council President Earling invited Councilmembers interested in participating on the budget review Review committee to contact him by the close of business Tuesday, September 18. He also announced that due Committee to the number of agenda items on the September 25 agenda, the discussion regarding the Planned Residential Development ordinance has been moved to the October 23 Council meeting. Log Cabin Councilmember Marin invited the public to look at the plaque in front of the log cabin that was dedicated on Saturday. He commented restoring the cabin to maintain it as part of the City's heritage had been a worthwhile community effort. vocal Site Councilmember Marin reported on the speculation that petroleum plumes would be found on the Unocal site. The method chosen to investigate the extent of the contamination was to dig large holes down to the water table and vacuum any contamination that was discovered. He was pleased to report a minimal amount of oil products were discovered. Memorial at Councilmember Miller expressed his thanks to the Fire Department and Captain Schmitt for the Fire Station memorial held this past weekend. Although originally intended as a tribute to Captain Bill Angel, it 17 incorporated the tragedy that occurred during the previous week. Councilmember Miller commented the spontaneous displays of compassion for the United States and in remembrance of those who died, particularly at the fountain, were very moving. He expressed his appreciation for what the community has done. ppreciation o Acting Councilmember Miller expressed his appreciation to Acting Police Chief Wean for his stewardship olice Chief during the past six months as Acting Police Chief. Councilmember Miller congratulated Commander Greg Wean Stern on his appointment. Flowers and Mayor Haakenson said he perused the flowers and cards/sentiments left at the fountain today. He Cards at explained the flowers would be left at the fountain as long as possible; if they became too tall, they Fountain at would be moved to the Centennial Plaza or the Firefighter memorial. He read from a card left at the 5 & Main g fountain, written by a child, "We haven't lost people, we just gained more angels." With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 9:00 p.m. GARY HA(AlkENSON, MAYOR .d 2 SANDRA S. CHASE, CITY CLERK Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes September 17, 2001 . Page 11 P� I 1 AGENDA - EDMONDS CITY COUNCIL Council Chambers, Public Safety Complex 250 5t" Avenue North 7:00 - 10:00 p.m. SEPTEMBER 17, 2001 Special Monday Meeting 5:30 P.M. - Interview Chief of Police Candidates (Police Training Room) 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 September 11, 2001 (C) Approval of claim checks #50544 through #50647 for the week of September 10, 2001, in the amount of $105,760.34 (D) Acknowledge receipt of Claim for Damages from James and Jackie Rothaus (undetermined amount) (E) Report on the General Fund and other selected funds financial position for the month ending July 2001 (F) Report on bids opened September 7, 2001, for the 2001 Waterline Replacement Program, and award of contract to Marshbank Construction, Inc. ($495,741.52, including sales tax) (G) Authorization for Mayor to sign an Interlocal Agreement establishing Snohomish Regional Drug Task Force (H) Proposed Resolution declaring one siren to be surplused to the needs of the City, without a reasonable commercial value, and authorizing the staff to donate said property to the Edmonds South Snohomish County Historical Society in consideration of its maintenance within the City of Edmonds for historic and educational purposes Page 1 of 2 CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA September 17, 2001 Page 2 of 2 r 3. (5 Min.) Introduction of new Student Representative Meredith Storey 4. (60 Min.) Public Hearing on proposed amendments to the City Code that would require cats to be licensed, that all stray dogs and cats adopted out by the City's contracting animal shelter be altered, and establishing an Animal Benefit Fund in the City's operating budget that would pay for the altering of stray animals to be adopted. (For informational purposes only.) 5. Audience Comments (3 Minute Limit Per Person) 6. (15 Min.) Report on City Council Committee Meetings 7. ( 5 Min.) Mayor's Comments 8. (15 Min.) Council Comments 1 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.