10/25/2011 City CouncilEDMONDS CITY COUNCIL APPROVED MINUTES
October 25, 2011
The Edmonds City Council meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Mayor Cooper in the Council
Chambers, 250 5`" Avenue North, Edmonds.
ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT
Mike Cooper, Mayor
Strom Peterson, Council President
Steve Bernheim, Councilmember
D. J. Wilson, Councilmember
Michael Plunkett, Councilmember
Adrienne Fraley - Monillas, Councilmember
Diane Buckshnis, Councilmember
ELECTED OFFICIALS ABSENT
Lora Petso, Councilmember
ALSO PRESENT
Alex Springer, Student Representative
STAFF PRESENT
Al Compaan, Police Chief
Stephen Clifton, Community Services /Economic
Development Director
Phil Williams, Public Works Director
Shawn Hunstock, Finance Director
Carrie Hite, Parks & Recreation Director
Douglas Fair, Municipal Court Judge
Rich Lindsay, Parks Maintenance Manager
Rob Chave, Planning Manager
Frances Chapin, Cultural Services Manager
Deb Sharp, Accountant
Joan Ferebee, Court Administrator
Renee McRae, Recreation Manager
Rob English, City Engineer
Jeff Taraday, City Attorney
Sandy Chase, City Clerk
Jana Spellman, Senior Executive Council Asst.
Jeannie Dines, Recorder
1. CONVENE IN EXECUTIVE SESSION TO RECEIVE AND EVALUATE A COMPLAINT OR
CHARGES BROUGHT AGAINST A PUBLIC OFFICER PER RCW 42.30.110(1)(f), AND
REGARDING POTENTIAL LITIGATION PER RCW 42.30.110(1)(i).
At 6:00 p.m., Mayor Cooper announced that the City Council would meet in executive session to receive
and evaluate a complaint or charges brought against a public officer per RCW 42.30.110(1)(f) and
regarding potential litigation per RCW 42.30.110(1)(i). He stated that the executive session was
scheduled to last approximately 60 minutes and would be held in the Jury Meeting Room, located in the
Public Safety Complex. He also announced that the City council may take action as a result of meeting in
executive session. This action will occur when the City Council reconvenes in open session. Elected
officials present at the executive session were: Mayor Cooper, and Councilmembers Bernheim, Plunkett,
Fraley - Monillas, Buckshnis, Peterson and Wilson. Others present were City Attorney Jeff Taraday and
City Clerk Sandy Chase. The executive session concluded at 7:04 p.m.
RECONVENE IN OPEN SESSION
Mayor Cooper reconvened the regular City Council meeting at 7:06 p.m. and led the flag salute.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 25, 2011
Page 1
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT
PETERSON, TO APPROVE THE AGENDA IN CONTENT AND ORDER. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
3. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT
PETERSON, TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
The agenda items approved are as follows:
A. ROLL CALL
B. APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF OCTOBER 18, 2011.
C. APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS #128389 THROUGH #128542 DATED OCTOBER 20,
2011 FOR $702,296.99. APPROVAL OF PAYROLL DIRECT DEPOSIT AND CHECKS
#50883 THROUGH #50906 FOR THE PERIOD OCTOBER 1, 2011 THROUGH
OCTOBER 15, 2011 FOR $623,088.48.
D. PROCLAMATION IN RECOGNITION OF PANCREATIC CANCER AWARENESS
MONTH IN EDMONDS.
E. ADOPTION BY RESOLUTION NO. 1258 OF THE PREVIOUSLY APPROVED ESCA
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN AND AUTHORIZATION FOR THE MAYOR TO SIGN.
4. POTENTIAL ACTION AS A RESULT OF EXECUTIVE SESSION DISCUSSION
COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY- MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
BERNHEIM, TO RELEASE PAGE 2 OF THE EXECUTIVE SESSION NOTES FROM OCTOBER
18, 2005. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
5. AUDIENCE COMMENTS
Mayor Cooper reminded the public that RCW 42.17.130 regarding the opportunity for public comment,
states public comment shall not include comments which promote or oppose candidates for public office
or ballot measures except during the course of a public hearing. Two members of the public who spoke
last week did not specifically oppose or speak in favor of a candidate; they stated feelings about
Councilmembers and their performance. In doing so they were exercising their right to free speech and
their opinions about the performance of the City Council. He requested speakers consider some decorum
in the manner in which they address Councilmembers and refrain from impugning their motives, honesty
or behavior.
Roger Hertrich, Edmonds, referred to Consent Agenda Item E (Adoption by Resolution of the
Previously Approved ESCA Hazard Mitigation Plan and Authorization for the Mayor to Sign),
recommending the Plan be revised to address the inability to reach the waterfront in the event of a railroad
explosion /fire. Next, he referred to campaign literature he received in the mail paid for by the National
Association of Realtors Fund in Chicago, expressing concern with a $16,000 campaign contribution by an
outside source. He objected to Edmonds' small town politics being purchased by outside sources. He was
disappointed an average resident cannot run for office because "the big guys, the money that wants to
control Edmonds" is behind some people running for office. He suggested anyone receiving campaign
literature determine who produced the materials and where they originated.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 25, 2011
Page 2
Ron Wambolt, Edmonds, suggested voting for a candidate based on who they received money from was
not a sound basis for a decision. He suggested people consider the qualifications of candidates and make
their decision based on their merit, not the source of money. A candidate's capabilities, not the source of
money will make the difference when he /she is in office.
COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT
PETERSON, TO REMOVE ITEM D FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA AND PLACE IT ON THE
AGENDA AS ITEM 5A. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
5A. PROCLAMATION IN RECOGNITION OF PANCREATIC CANCER AWARENESS MONTH IN
EDMONDS
Mayor Cooper read a Proclamation declaring November 2011 as Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month in
Edmonds.
6. COMPENSATION CONSULTANT PRESENTATION
Parks & Recreation/Interim Human Resources Director Carrie Hite explained the Council budgeted funds
to hire a compensation consultant in December 2010. There have been several conversations since then
and in June 2011 the Council voted to direct staff to advertise an RFQ for compensation and classification
study. The RFQ was advertised from August 10 to September 2; 14 firms responded. An interview
committee that included Council President Peterson and Councilmember Fraley- Monillas interviewed
three consultant firms. Last week the Council approved staff's recommendation to award a contract to
Public Sector Personnel Consultants to perform a classification and compensation study for non -
represented positions and a complete job description update for all City positions.
Matt Weatherly, President, Public Sector Personnel Consultants, provided an overview of PSPC:
• 30+ years in business, dedicated to assisting public sector employers with classification and
compensation planning
• 1,000+ public employers served throughout the US including more than 300 municipal
employers. Recent studies include City of Bothell, Sounds Transit, Grant County PUD, Lewis
County, and Bremerton Housing
• Devoted full -time staff for the project including the firm's President and Vice Presidents
He recognized it had been approximately 14 years since the City had done a comprehensive classification
and compensation study. He suggested such a study to review and update job descriptions be considered
due diligence in the budget process.
Mr. Weatherly reviewed the project scope and deliverables:
• 90 -120 day process
• City -wide classification and job description updating study of the City's 207 employees and 120
unique job titles as authorized by Council
• Project to include direct employee participation and input
• Non - represented Compensation Survey of the approximately 40 positions and 40 job titles
comparing City's total compensation plans by benchmark job, as well as benefits offerings, to the
appropriate marketplace(s)
• Updating of compensation policies for non - represented job titles and development of updated pay
structure to ensure a fair, appropriate and competitive pay system
Mr. Weatherly described principal tasks in the compensation survey:
• Partnership with City's Project Committee and HR staff
• Identification of competitive employers for comparisons (Council input and/or approval needed)
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 25, 2011
Page 3
• Data collection from compensation plans of competitor employers
• Follow -up to ensure proper matching to selected benchmarks
• Comparison of total compensation packages to external practices
• Computation of current plan(s) variance from prevailing rates
• Identification of opportunities for comparable and/or competitive compensation offerings
Data sources for the survey include:
• In order to hire and retain high quality staff, should include employers the City competes with to
attract and retain its workforce; may include public and private sector
• Comparators may vary by "job group" such as:
1) Professional and technical jobs (may include private data)
2) Jobs unique to public sector but regardless of size
3) Management jobs where size and budget are considered
• We will collect total compensation data directly from comparators
• We will follow up to ensure accurate matching of non - represented positions to the comparator
jobs in the market
Mr. Weatherly described data interpretation:
• Identification of non - represented jobs ahead, behind, at market
• Corrections, if needed to pay grade assignments for some jobs, OR
• Development and approval of alternative salary range table designs
• Recommend pay ranges based on internal equity and external competitiveness
• Development of updated banding for non - represented positions
• Fiscal impact estimates of recommended compensation plan
• Review of draft compensation plan with HR, Project Committee
• "Pay philosophy" and updated policies for the City's consideration (Council input and /or
approval needed)
• Compensation administration provisions and final report preparation
Mr. Weatherly explained questionnaires have been distributed to allow employees to articulate their
duties and responsibilities. He described the Committee and Council's involvement:
• Ensuring PSPC's adherence to project objectives
• Enumerating any compensation - related policy issues
• Identifying objective market comparators, data sources
• Identifying total compensation elements to survey
• Providing critical policy determinations and directions:
• Salary competitiveness policy or philosophy
• Implementation strategies and methods
• Continued communication with Council, City leadership, project team and stakeholders
Mr. Weatherly summarized they will work closely with staff to develop the best possible approach with
the Council's input that will provide a sustainable, defensible equitable, competitive, and fair
compensation plan, not just for the immediate future but the framework for a model the City can follow in
the future and reference in future updating and maintenance of the compensation plan.
Councilmember Buckshnis relayed her concern with banding and how bands are selected. She asked
whether the study will consider each band to determine whether the correct positions are in each band.
Mr. Weatherly answered yes; they will utilize two major factors, 1) the questionnaires which lead the
employee on a path to internal equity, and 2) interpretation of market data. There may be instances where
internally a band adjustment should be made and instances where the market data supports or refutes that
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 25, 2011
Page 4
change. A balance is needed between internal equity and external competitiveness via application of
market data and interpretation of the job description questionnaire.
Councilmember Buckshnis explained there is an employee who performs two director jobs, economic
development and community services. She asked whether a recommendation would be made with regard
to whether to establish a larger department, combine departments, etc. Mr. Weatherly answered their
recommendations will not be in regard to organizational design. The City has a lean staffing model which
leads to employees performing two or more roles. They can survey those different roles and identify the
uniqueness of those roles. Unless directed otherwise, they will not make recommendations on
organizational design or staffing analysis from a service- delivery standpoint with regard to combining or
splitting departments.
Councilmember Buckshnis asked whether the consultant intended to use the recent WCIA survey. Mr.
Weatherly commented they will be sensitive to data in the survey with regard to current job descriptions
that are found to be lacking, inadequate, or out of compliance. He was not familiar with the data in the
WCIA survey, whether they had done a compensation survey work that they could use.
Councilmember Fraley - Monillas asked how the Council would provide input to the consultant. Mr.
Weatherly answered his contact information can be made available and he invited Councilmembers to
contact him. This initial discussion with Council is occurring early in the process to ensure the Council
was familiar with decision points, Council input components, market model, survey comparators, data
sources, etc. He intended to bring the market model to the Council in the next 35 -40 days for reaction,
input and direction. Ms. Hite offered to be a conduit for the Council to provide information to Mr.
Weatherly or provide the Council Mr. Weatherly's contact information.
01 ii [a] RKKI7IY Y 1IT" I
Police Chief Al Compaan explained this has been discussed with the Finance Committee at their July 12
meeting and Councilmember Petso who chairs that committee. The existing contract with the Town of
Woodway for police services extends through the end of 2012. The Finance Committee was interested in
providing direction to the Council and for the Council to provide policy direction for negotiation of a
contract to succeed the present agreement on a full cost recovery basis. The proposed resolution was
drafted by Councilmember Petso and City Attorney Jeff Taraday.
Council President Peterson explained Councilmember Petso worked on the resolution and is absent
tonight due to illness. If the Council felt Councilmember Petso's input was important, action could be
delayed. The existing police service contract with Woodway does not expire until the end of 2012.
Councilmember Buckshnis, also a member of the Finance Committee, explained Woodway's contract
with Fire District I (FD1) is approximately $55,000 /month. Edmonds currently collects $8,000-
$10,000 /year from Woodway for police services. She relayed Councilmember Petso's preference to
institute a monthly flat rate charge for police protection that would cover the cost of providing the service
rather than the current per call basis.
Council President Peterson clarified the proposed resolution does not contain any negotiation specifics.
The resolution notifies Woodway that Edmonds is interested in a different style of contracting than the
existing contract. Specific negotiations would occur in the future.
Councilmember Fraley - Monillas asked if there was a desire to table the resolution due to Councilmember
Petso's absence. She was prepared to proceed without Councilmember Petso present. Council President
Peterson found the resolution very straight forward and did not feel action needed to be delayed.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 25, 2011
Page 5
Mayor Cooper advised this issue was discussed at the Finance Committee as well as at a meeting with
Chief Compaan, staff, Councilmember Petso and him to discuss next steps. The purpose of the resolution
is to provide Chief Compaan and him direction for future contract negotiations.
COUNCILMEMBER BERNHEIM MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 1259, TO NOTIFY THE TOWN OF WOODWAY
THAT THE CITY OF EDMONDS INTENDS TO BEGIN NEGOTIATING A NEW CONTRACT
WITH THE TOWN OF WOODWAY TO PROVIDE POLICE SERVICES ON A FULL SERVICE
BASIS.
City Attorney Jeff Taraday pointed out the existing agreement with Woodway can be terminated without
cause by either party upon 90 days written notice.
COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETERSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY-
MONILLAS, TO AMEND SECTION 1 TO READ: ... THE CITY OF EDMONDS WILL NO
LONGER PROVIDE POLICE SERVICES ON THE CURRENT A FEE PER CALL BASIS." AND
ADD SECTION 3 THAT READS: "AUTHORIZATION TO NEGOTIATE AN INCREASE FEE
PER CALL CONTRACT THAT COVERS THE TRUE COST OF POLICE SERVICES
PROVIDED BY THE CITY OF EDMONDS."
Councilmember Fraley - Monillas asked if Council President Peterson had researched a per trip versus a
flat rate. Council President Peterson answered he has not. He anticipated the full service contract is better
for Edmonds but entering into a new negotiation, he did not want to be limited to an all or nothing
approach. There are two opportunities with Woodway, a full service contract, or if Woodway has no
interest in that, a per call service contract at an increased rate. Councilmember Fraley - Monillas
summarized the amendment adds the fee per call concept to the resolves of the resolution. She observed
the amendment referenced establishing a fee that covers the true cost of police services. Council President
Peterson acknowledged the true cost of police services will be one of the key negotiating points of this
contract.
Councilmember Wilson provided comments that Councilmember Petso may have made were she present.
Councilmember Petso would likely argue that the current fee of $137.50 per call does not cover the cost.
Councilmember Wilson remarked he would love to be able to buy health insurance and only pay when he
went to the doctor or homeowners insurance that he only paid for when his home was burglarized. That is
the basis of the City's current contract with Woodway. Councilmember Petso would likely argue that
Edmonds would prefer a contract that apportions the relative cost for Woodway based on their population
or property value or some other measure as a percentage of the overall cost for police because Edmonds
taxpayers pay 100% of their share regardless of whether they utilize police services. Conversely,
Woodway pays only when the police respond but have coverage 100% of the time. Woodway should pay
as much of their share as Edmonds citizens do. He preferred to proceed with negotiations with Woodway
for payment of police services on a full service basis.
Councilmember Bernheim agreed a full service contract was needed with Woodway in order to cover the
cost of providing the service. Woodway is the beneficiary of the current contract; Edmonds does not need
the income Woodway provides to finance the Police Department. Edmonds has its own Police
Department to protect its residents and does not need a contract to provide police protection to Woodway.
The only fiscally prudent reason to renew the contract would be if Woodway came close to covering the
cost of service. He did not support the amendment.
Councilmember Fraley - Monillas observed if Woodway was not interested in contracting for police
services on a full service basis, they could contract with Shoreline or form their own Police Department.
She agreed with Councilmember Bernheim that it be more beneficial to Edmonds to charge the true cost
versus on a per call basis which may not cover the cost of police service.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 25, 2011
Page 6
THE VOTE ON THE AMENDMENT TO THE MOTION FAILED (1 -5), WITH COUNCIL
PRESIDENT PETERSON VOTING YES.
Council President Peterson asked whether Edmonds police officers would respond to a 911 call in
Woodway if Woodway terminated their contract with Edmonds. Chief Compaan answered Edmonds
officers would respond to a life safety issue just as Edmonds responds to Shoreline, Lynnwood and vice
versa in accordance with mutual aid. He commented when one of Woodway's part -time officers is on
duty, they assist in Edmonds.
THE VOTE ON THE MAIN MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
8. WORK SESSION ON THE 2012 BUDGET
Council President Peterson advised a public hearing on the budget was scheduled on November 1. He
requested Councilmembers begin bringing budget amendments for Council consideration next week. He
asked whether an interactive spreadsheet such as was used in last year's budget would be provided.
Mayor Cooper answered yes.
Councilmember Plunkett recalled in the past Councilmembers have presented amendments for Council
discussion but no action was taken on amendments until a motion was made on the budget in late
November /early December. He asked whether that process would be followed this year or would action
be taken on amendments as they were proposed. He would be unable to vote on amendments until all
amendments had been proposed and discussed. Council President Peterson clarified his intent was for
Councilmembers to propose amendments to allow for a full discussion. Councilmember Plunkett
suggested scheduling time on the agenda to discuss the amendments, recognizing that some amendments
will be supported and others will be dropped during that process. Council President Peterson anticipated
that specific discussion would be scheduled on either November 15 or 22.
Non - Department
Financial Consultant Jim Tarte explained Non - Department totals $11.3 million. He highlighted Non -
Departmental expenditures over $100,000 and invited Council input:
• $6.3 million
— Fire District 1 Contract
• $1.4 million
— Principal & Interest Payments
• $912,000
— SnoCom / New World
• $600,000
— LEOFF Medical Expense Fund
• $444,000
— Insurance — Liability & Property
• $250,000
— Edmonds Center for Arts (ECA)
• $197,000
— Hydrant Costs
• $165,000
— Miscellaneous Contingency
• $160,000
— ESCA/ SERS
• $148,000
— Public Defender
• $100,000
— Accrued vacation / sick payouts
Councilmember Buckshnis referred to the $165,000 Miscellaneous Contingency, recognizing that was
used in the private sector but was not common in municipalities. She was concerned that provided a
rubber stamp to the Mayor to spend $165,000 and if safeguards were not in place, it would be an at -will
contingency. Mr. Tarte explained Mayor Cooper and he reviewed each department's budget with the
department in detail. If there was no justification for increasing a line item, it was reduced to the 2011
estimate amount. During that process there were a number of items identified that the Council, Mayor or
Director do not have any control over whether the amount will meet the 2012 budget. For example, the
$250,000 ECA loan guarantee or jail costs. The proposed 2012 budget of $526,000 for jail costs is the
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 25, 2011
Page 7
lowest in the past 6 years and represents best case scenario. In a number of departments, repairs and
maintenance costs are based on historical expenses. However, failure of an HVAC system or a server
could cost $20,000 - $30,000.
Mr. Tarte summarized every department's budget is a best case scenario. In his experience, it is highly
unlikely that a private or public entity will have a best case scenario for all departments. After
consolidating all the budgets, he felt it prudent to add a contingency for under - budgeted items. He
emphasized the Miscellaneous Contingency was for under - budgeted expenditures that are beyond the City
and staff's ability to control. That is specifically stated in the budget narrative. The Council could take
action to require this fund only be used for under - budget items.
Councilmember Buckshnis pointed out budget amendments are used to address under - budget
expenditures. She preferred to do an amendment if additional funds were necessary for the ECA bond
debt rather than utilizing funds from the Miscellaneous Contingency. Mr. Tarte explained revenues in the
General Fund budget exceed expenditures by $43,000; removing the Miscellaneous Contingency
increases that amount to approximately $200,000. A citizen, Councilmember or Mayor may think that is
extra money that can be spent when in reality that $200,000 cannot be spent because there is no
contingency for things that may happen over the course of the year citywide. If a contingency is not
budgeted, it is likely expenditures will exceed revenues. He concluded budgeting for a Miscellaneous
Contingency is prudent as long as there are proper controls.
Councilmember Wilson asked what would be an adequate percentage for a $60 -70 million budget for
contingency expenditures in the public or private sector. Mr. Tarte answered t /2 %. The Miscellaneous
Contingency is in the General Fund which has expenditures of approximately $33 million; $33 million
multiplied by /2% is approximately $165,000. Councilmember Wilson commented' /2 %seems pretty low
for a contingency when each department does not have a contingency.
Mayor Cooper asked Mr. Tarte to explain the FD1 contract amount and what could happen in the LEOFF
Medical Expense Fund, currently budgeted at $600,000. Mr. Tarte explained the LEOFF Medical
Expense Fund was $375,000 last year; the $225,000 increase is the largest increase in the General Fund
from 2011 to 2012. The increase is due to anticipated medical expenditures of the City's LEOFFI
retirees. That fund currently has a balance of approximately $300,000, an approximately 6 month reserve;
the estimated medical expenditures in 2012 of $600,000 do not expend the fund balance. Mayor Cooper
pointed out that one more LEOFFI retiree moving into an assisted living facility has the potential to
increase expenditures by $200,000 /year. Mr. Tarte agreed.
With regard to the FDI contract, Mr. Tarte explained the contract is currently $6.2 million; FDI has not
communicated any increase to the City although the contract states that will occur by September 1. He has
heard the increase may be as high as 3.7 %. FDI is in negotiations with their unions. The projected $6.3
million was calculated by adding 2.5 %; once negotiations with the FDI firefighter union are completed,
that amount may change. If a 3.7% increase is approved, the budget will need to be increased by
approximately $75,000; if it is less than 2.5 %, the $6.3 million amount can be reduced.
Council President Peterson agreed safeguards on the use of the Miscellaneous Contingency were
appropriate. He envisioned the Miscellaneous Contingency would make it easier to track cost overruns
from under - budgeted items via a quarterly review by the Finance Committee. Safeguards could include
expenditures over a certain amount must be approved by the Council. Mayor Cooper pointed out any
expenditure over $100,000 would need to be approved by the Council.
Councilmember Buckshnis expressed concern with practices that were inconsistent with other cities'
practices. She preferred to follow industry standards and the practices used by other cities. She offered to
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 25, 2011
Page 8
research whether other cities used a Miscellaneous Contingency. She relayed Mr. Hunstock's indication
that Tukwila does not budget a Miscellaneous Contingency.
Councilmember Plunkett preferred to do a budget amendment to address under - budget expenditures.
Councilmember Bernheim asked whether the FD contract stated the contract shall be adjusted each year
no later than September 1. Mr. Tarte agreed it did. Councilmember Bernheim asked what happened now
that FDl had not informed the City of any increase. Mayor Cooper explained the contract amount
increase is tied to the COLA received by firefighters. The firefighters' multi -year collective bargaining
agreement has a 3.7% COLA for 2012, 100% of the CPI. FD1 is currently in negotiations with the
firefighters' union regarding a concession. If the firefighters' union does a concession and does not accept
the entire 3.7 %, the contract would increase by a lesser amount.
Councilmember Bernheim referred to the contract clause that states the payment shall be adjusted each
year no later than September 1, presumably so the City can budget, and asked whether labor costs were
independent of that clause. Mayor Cooper responded FDl had a verbal conversation with Mr. Tarte
during preparation of the budget that the firefighters' contract includes a 3.7% increase. Until negotiations
are completed, that exact percentage increase is unknown. Councilmember Bernheim asked whether FD
was required to inform the City by September 1. Mr. Tarte agreed the contract states that will occur by
September 1. He offered to research the consequence if the increase was not submitted by that date.
Mayor Cooper advised the increase was included in the $6.3 million budgeted for FDl, depending on
negotiations, that amount could be lower.
Public Works
Public Works Director Phil Williams explained Public Works has multiple revenue sources with
restrictions on how they are spent. He reviewed the Public Works 2012 expenditure budgets:
O eratin
Administration (0.83 %)
$ 294,110
Facilities
1,351,548
Engineering
1,318,706
Streets
1,568,948
Combined Utility
15,558,643
- Rate Capital
1,772,053
- Debt Service
1,653,672
- Utility Taxes
1,544,996
- Water Purchase
1,410,000
Fleet
1,311,334
Capital
Street Capital
2,075,525
Facilities Capital
245,000
Utility Capital
11,591,444
- Water
3,337,549
- Storm
2,137,046
- Sewer
4,990,393
- Treatrnent
1,126,376
Total
$35,312,358
Mr. Williams emphasized the above Streets budget does not include any funds for paving. He reviewed
O &M expenses in the Combined Utility Fund ($15,558,643):
Water $5.37 million
Sewer $4.47 million
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 25, 2011
Page 9
Storm $2.26 million
Treatment $3.45 million
Mr. Williams explained in 2010 the Council reviewed, modified and approved a new Water System
Comprehensive Plan and a Utility Rate Study and Cost of Service Analysis. That, in addition to approval
of new Stormwater Comprehensive Plan and the imbedded capital programs, the Council adopted a three -
part rate package that resulted in a 4.4 -4.5% water and stormwater rate increase on August 1, 2010 and
January 1, 2011. The final rate increase, 7.5% water and 8% stormwater will be implemented on January
1, 2012. The impact of those increases is a total combined utility rate for an average single family
residential using 800 cubic feet /month of $71.92 with utility tax ($32.55 water, $27.85 sewer, and $11.52
stormwater). The utility bills on a bimonthly basis.
Mr. Williams reviewed a rate comparison (without utility tax):
Mr. Williams explained the year -to -year difference in Public Works budgets is due capital projects. He
highlighted projects in Fund 112 Transportation, Fund 116 Facilities, Fund 412 -100 Water, Fund 412 -300
Sewer, Fund 412 -200 Storm, and Fund 412 Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Mr. Williams commented on the need to pursue revenue bonds for capital programs in water ($6.73
million), sewer ($1.1 million) and stormwater ($3.2 million) along with current refunding of utility
revenue bond debt. He pointed out differences between the 2012 and the 2011 budget due to:
• Loss of a custodian (not replacing a custodian who retired) $ 6 1, 100 (decrease)
• No General Fund Contribution to the 511 B $300,000 (decrease)
• Estimated increase in fuel costs $ 26,000 (increase)
Councilmember Buckshnis inquired about the lower than anticipated revenue from the TBD,
approximately $600,000 in 2012. Mr. Williams explained when the TBD was approved in 2009, it was
anticipated the vehicle license fee would generate $750,000 /year. In 2010, the first full year the fee was
collected, the City collected $589,000. He anticipated the revenue the City was receiving now was what
would be received in the future. He pointed out the Street budget had only two major revenue sources, 1)
the $20 fixed TBD fee, and 2) the fixed per gallon gas tax.
Councilmember Buckshnis asked whether passage of the Street Levy would impact Fund 111. Mr.
Williams anticipated the funds would come to Fund 112, Street Construction.
Parks & Recreation and Cultural Services
Parks & Recreation Director Carrie Hite reviewed expenses and highlighted changes:
Edmonds
Lynnwood
Mountlake
Terrace
Shoreline
Water
$27.42
$19.21
$28.91
$36.63
Sewer
$25.32
$35.38
$37.52
$33.00
Storm
$10.47
$ 7.52
$ 9.08
$10.84
Total
$63.21
$63.22
$75.51
$80.47
Mr. Williams explained the year -to -year difference in Public Works budgets is due capital projects. He
highlighted projects in Fund 112 Transportation, Fund 116 Facilities, Fund 412 -100 Water, Fund 412 -300
Sewer, Fund 412 -200 Storm, and Fund 412 Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Mr. Williams commented on the need to pursue revenue bonds for capital programs in water ($6.73
million), sewer ($1.1 million) and stormwater ($3.2 million) along with current refunding of utility
revenue bond debt. He pointed out differences between the 2012 and the 2011 budget due to:
• Loss of a custodian (not replacing a custodian who retired) $ 6 1, 100 (decrease)
• No General Fund Contribution to the 511 B $300,000 (decrease)
• Estimated increase in fuel costs $ 26,000 (increase)
Councilmember Buckshnis inquired about the lower than anticipated revenue from the TBD,
approximately $600,000 in 2012. Mr. Williams explained when the TBD was approved in 2009, it was
anticipated the vehicle license fee would generate $750,000 /year. In 2010, the first full year the fee was
collected, the City collected $589,000. He anticipated the revenue the City was receiving now was what
would be received in the future. He pointed out the Street budget had only two major revenue sources, 1)
the $20 fixed TBD fee, and 2) the fixed per gallon gas tax.
Councilmember Buckshnis asked whether passage of the Street Levy would impact Fund 111. Mr.
Williams anticipated the funds would come to Fund 112, Street Construction.
Parks & Recreation and Cultural Services
Parks & Recreation Director Carrie Hite reviewed expenses and highlighted changes:
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 25, 2011
Page 10
2011
Budget
2011
Estimate
2012
Budget
2011 Budget to
2012 Budget
2012 Budget to
2011 Estimate
Salaries & Ben.
$2,512,735
$2,364,984
$2,457,845
($54,890)
$92,861
Supplies
$114,590
$106,494
$144,026
$29,436
$37,532
Prof. Services
$357,534
$344,954
$339,666
($17,868)
($5,288)
Utilities
$133,416
$155,000
$150,000
$16,584
($5,000)
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 25, 2011
Page 10
Inter Gov /Fund
$130,094
$136,545
$137,823
$7,729
$1,278
Miscellaneous
$38,570
$74,002
$76,370
$37,800
$2,368
Other
$118,286
$115,385
$130,318
$12,032
$14,933
Total
$3,405,225
$3,297,364
$3,436,048
$30,823
$138,684
Ms. Hite explained the increases in supplies, miscellaneous and other are due primarily to the grant the
City received from the Swedish Hospital Foundation (Verdant Grant). The increase in revenue equals the
additional expenditures. The reduction in the professional services budget is the result of changing the
split percentage with contract instructors this year and in 2012.
Ms. Hite reviewed revenues:
Ms. Hite advised pool revenues were down this year. She is preparing an analysis of pool revenues that
will be available next week.
(Councilmember Wilson left the meeting at 8:50 p.m.)
Ms. Hite reviewed the total Parks budget:
2011
Budget
2011
Estimate
2012 Budget
2012 Budget to
2011 Budget
2012 Budget to
2011 Estimate
Recreation
$807,500
$872,629
$860,000
$52,500
($12,629)
Non Resident
$3,405,225
$3,297,364
$60,000
$60,000
$60,000
Verdant Grant
($2,139,692)
($1,997,536)
$69,300
$69,300
$69,300
Fac. Rent
$319,683
$314,504
$332,885
$13,202
$18,381
Pool
$138,350
$112,695
$139,519
$1,169
$26,824
Total
$1,265,533
$1,299,828
$1,461,704
$196,171
$161,876
Increase
13%
11%
Ms. Hite advised pool revenues were down this year. She is preparing an analysis of pool revenues that
will be available next week.
(Councilmember Wilson left the meeting at 8:50 p.m.)
Ms. Hite reviewed the total Parks budget:
Ms. Hite reviewed decision packages in the proposed budget:
Tree Maintenance costs (ongoing):
2011 Budget
2011 Estimate
2012 Budget
2011 Budget to
2012 Budget
2012 Budget to
2011 Estimate
Revenue
$1,265,533
$1,299,828
$1,461,704
$196,171
$161,876
Expenses
$3,405,225
$3,297,364
$3,436,048
$30,823
$138,684
($2,139,692)
($1,997,536)
($1,974,344)
$165,348
$23,192
Increase/
Decrease
-5%
-1%
Ms. Hite reviewed decision packages in the proposed budget:
Tree Maintenance costs (ongoing):
$25,000
Walker riding mower (one time):
$17,500
Cemetery seasonal staff (ongoing)
$ 5,000
Class Software for Pool (one time):
$ 8,675
Class Software Maintenance (ongoing):
$ 1,642
Landpride pull behind mower (one time):
$17,144
Ms. Hite explained funds have never been budgeted for tree trimming and as a result funds are taken from
other line items in either Parks or Public Works. Trees continually need trimming and she encouraged the
Council to budget for that need. She recommended the funding for the Walker riding mower come from
the Cemetery Fund as the mower is used specifically for the cemetery.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 25, 2011
Page 11
Ms. Hite identified the following issues:
A. Cemetery Maintenance Improvement Fund
Expenses continue to grow, revenues are flat, therefore fund balance is decreasing.
Current fund balance will carry us through 2012 and part of 2013.
Will need to look at structural issues of this fund.
B. Park Trust Fund: Yost Pool
• Trust fund for Yost "save the pool" campaign depleted in 2011.
• Long term operational goal is to increase revenue, decrease expenses and minimize subsidy.
• This year, revenue was decreased due to weather and the new Lynnwood pool.
C. Beautification Program for 2012:
• $40,000 in General Fund expenditures
• $36,000 in REST 125 expenditures
REET 125 only for capital, with some allowance now for M & O.
• Will need to look at this in the future, when legislation expires.
Community Services & Economic Development
Community Services/Economic Development Director Stephen Clifton reviewed the Community
Services budget:
0 2012 Budget: $323,006
0 Reduction from 2011 Budget: 4%
0 Increase from 2011 Estimated Year End: 5%
Community Services
2011
Budget
2011
Estimate
2012
Budget
2011 Budget to
2012 Budget
2012 Budget to
2011 Est.
Salaries & Benefits
276,324
266,505
273,476
(2,848)
6,971
Professional Services
50,514
35,670
42,000
(8,514)
6,330
Other Costs
8,390
6,540
7,530
(860)
990
Dep't Budget
335,228
308,715
323,006
(12,222)
14,291
Percentage Increase /Decrease
-4%
-5%
Mr. Clifton explained the decrease in the professional services line item was there were only expenditures
the government relations contract (Mike Doubleday) and no expenditures for environmental litigation.
Mr. Clifton reviewed the Economic Development budget pointing out all salaries and benefits are in the
Community Services budget:
0 2012 Budget: $114,200
0 Increase from 2011 Budget: 46%
0 Increase from 2011 Estimated Year End: 72%
Economic
Development
2011
Budget
2011
Estimate
2012
Budget
2011 Budget to
2012 Budget
2012 Budget to
2011 Est.
Professional
Services
35,800
37,518
79,000
43,200
41,482
Advertising,
25,000
24,000
30,000
5,000
6,000
Other Costs
17,300
4,950
5,200
- 12,100
250
Dep't Budget
78,100
66,468
114,200
36,100
47,732
Percentage Increase /Decrease
46% (related to
strategic plan )
72% (related to
strategic plan)
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 25, 2011
Page 12
Mr. Clifton advised when the budget was prepared, the expected expenditure for Beckwith Consulting
Group in 2011 was $40,000 with the balance spent in 2012. Due to the schedule adjustment, the
consultant expects to expend $28,000 this year and the balance in 2012. The 2012 budget for professional
services will increase by that amount. He emphasized the total $100,000 appropriated for the strategic
plan has not changed.
Development Services
Planning Manager Rob Chave explained operations of the Development Services Department consist of
programs designed to meet the requirements of federal, state, and locally mandated laws and codes and
other discretionary services. The department consists of two divisions, planning and building as well as an
administrative division with code enforcement and reception. The Development Director position is not
budgeted in 2012.
Mr. Chave reviewed expenditures:
Mr. Chave reviewed revenues
2011 Estimate
2012 Proposed
Percentage
Administration
$257,515
$279,404
8.50%
Building Services
$651,699
$641,191
- 1.60%
Planning Services
$759,127
$734,267
- 3.30%
Total Department
$1,668,341
$1,654,862
- 0.80%
Mr. Chave reviewed revenues
Mr. Chave reviewed a chart comparing the number of Development Services employees to building
permits 1985 — 2011 estimate. The 2012 budget includes 2 employees in admin, 6 in building and 6 in
planning for a total of 14, the same number the department had 25 years ago. Over that same period of
time, the City has experienced a 34% increase in population. Because of the City's slow growth, the
number of permits represents small scale activity with occasional increases in activity from significant
projects such as Pt. Edwards. He pointed out a modest increase in employment in peak years but the City
never built up its employment during the peak. The City has decreased its employment somewhat in the
downturn but not as much as other jurisdictions, one of the benefits of holding the line during peak years.
Mr. Chave displayed a graph comparing building permits issued through September:
0 2007 954
0 2008 826
0 2009 679
0 2010 681
0 2011 808
Mr. Chave explained summarized people are still doing projects, just smaller projects and activity levels
are beginning to increase. He displayed a graph comparing commercial building permits to project
valuation through September):
New Construction Alter /Addition
0 2006 $6,542,069 $4,686,935
0 2007 $ 249,610 $6,518,858
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 25, 2011
Page 13
2011 Estimate
2012 Proposed
Percentage
Building Permits
$400,000
$420,000
5.00%
Plan Review
$225,000
$235,000
4.40%
Land Use
$76,500
$80,500
5.20%
Total
$701,500
$735,500
4.80%
Mr. Chave reviewed a chart comparing the number of Development Services employees to building
permits 1985 — 2011 estimate. The 2012 budget includes 2 employees in admin, 6 in building and 6 in
planning for a total of 14, the same number the department had 25 years ago. Over that same period of
time, the City has experienced a 34% increase in population. Because of the City's slow growth, the
number of permits represents small scale activity with occasional increases in activity from significant
projects such as Pt. Edwards. He pointed out a modest increase in employment in peak years but the City
never built up its employment during the peak. The City has decreased its employment somewhat in the
downturn but not as much as other jurisdictions, one of the benefits of holding the line during peak years.
Mr. Chave displayed a graph comparing building permits issued through September:
0 2007 954
0 2008 826
0 2009 679
0 2010 681
0 2011 808
Mr. Chave explained summarized people are still doing projects, just smaller projects and activity levels
are beginning to increase. He displayed a graph comparing commercial building permits to project
valuation through September):
New Construction Alter /Addition
0 2006 $6,542,069 $4,686,935
0 2007 $ 249,610 $6,518,858
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 25, 2011
Page 13
• 2008 $1,565,228 $4,898,576
• 2009 $1,796,450 $1,691,846
• 2010 $0 $5,117,138
• 2011 $5,214,317 $3,647,105
Mr. Chave highlighted budget implications:
• Maintenance budget
• No major new program initiatives
• Commitment to reviewing department organization to focus on core priorities and sustainable
service delivery
Court
Municipal Court Judge Doug Fair explained the court was anticipating steady salary expenditures as no
staff had been added or lost. Court costs are driven by the number of filings; filings have remained fairly
steady over the past 3 -4 years. He anticipated an increase in interpreter costs as a more diverse population
comes into the court. The court is required to provide interpreter services in court and probationary
services.
Council
Mr. Tarte displayed the City Council budget (page 13 of 2012 budget) and highlighted the following:
• A $34,000 decrease in benefits due to an ordinance passed to eliminate health benefits for
dependents
• A decrease in professional services due to lower City Attorney costs (a portion is allocated to City
Council budget)
• Council Contingency Miscellaneous similar to the Miscellaneous Contingency in Non -
Department to fund unforeseen events. Historically this has been used for legal situations.
Councilmember Buckshnis pointed out the difference between the Council Contingency Miscellaneous
and the Miscellaneous Contingency in Non - Department was the Council controlled expenditures in the
Council Contingency Miscellaneous, the Miscellaneous Contingency in Non - Department did not have
any controls. She pointed out the Council Contingency Miscellaneous replaces the Council Contingency
in the General Fund. Mr. Tarte agreed. Councilmember Buckshnis complimented Mr. Tarte on how
understandable the 2012 budget is.
Mr. Tarte concluded the General Fund budget has $43,000 revenues in excess of expenditures (page 4 of
2012 budget). The following funds are using their beginning fund balance to cover 2012 expenditures
beyond their revenues:
• $300,000 — Vehicle Replace Fund
• $256,000 — Street Fund
• $ 19,000 - LEOFF Medical Expense Fund
• $ 25,000 — Fire Pension Fund
• $188,000 — Building Maintenance Fund
• $788,000 — Total
Mr. Tarte concluded the 2012 budget will get the City through 2012 but it is by no means a sustainable
model.
Councilmember Buckshnis asked whether the 2012 expenditure of $188,000 from the Building
Maintenance Fund will be addressed if the building maintenance levy passes. Mr. Williams answered
Proposition 3 is a total of $500,000. Staff and Council's proposal was to split that between building and
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 25, 2011
Page 14
parks maintenance. A list of building maintenance and parks maintenance projects in the CIP were
submitted that will be pursued with that additional funding.
Mr. Tarte cautioned budget amendments in the 4th quarter of 2012 may be higher than in previous years
due to the tight budgeting in 2012.
9. COUNCIL REPORTS ON OUTSIDE COMMITTEE/BOARD MEETINGS
Councilmember Fraley- Monillas reported on the Snohomish Health District, reminding that unused, non -
narcotic medications can be dropped off at Bartell's at Westgate and narcotics can be dropped off at the
Edmonds Police Department. She thanked the Edmonds Police Department for participating in this effort
to keep medications out of the garbage and water.
Councilmember Buckshnis reported the Economic Development Commission (EDC) discussed the UW
study, outreach to citizens, the City's new website and whether the term of EDC should be extended.
Mayor Cooper reported the Regional Fire Authority (RFA) Planning Committee is moving forward. One
of the questions the Finance Committee was considering was whether such a large organization could be
funded within the assessed value of the region. The Finance Subcommittee reported a RFA could be
sustained within the funding mechanism and available assessed value. The next step is for the Finance
Subcommittee, which Councilmember Petso serves on, to present a complete financial plan to the
Planning Committee and for the Strategic Level of Service Subcommittee, which Councilmember Wilson
serves on, to present a plan to the Planning Committee. After those plans are adopted during the first
quarter of 2012, they will be presented to City Councils and Fire Commission Boards for approval and a
resolution whether the jurisdiction wants to continue.
Mayor Cooper reported the city of Bothell has asked to join the RFA Planning Committee; that will be
debated at the November Planning Committee meeting. He anticipated in November/December
Councilmember Petso and Councilmember Wilson will report details regarding the subcommittees'
efforts. He encouraged the Council and the public to visit the RFA's website (RTA- Planning.org) for
ongoing information. He reported the City's new Finance Director Shawn Hunstock has a great deal of
experience with RFAs, having participated in the Valley Regional Fire Authority in Auburn while
working in Auburn and Tukwila's investigation of their participation in Kent's RFA.
10. MAYOR'S COMMENTS
Mayor Cooper reported he attended Cascade Symphony's 50`h anniversary concert on October 23 and
read the proclamation. The theme of the concert was Rick Steves' tour through Europe and Mr. Steves
narrated the music. The October 23 and 24 concert were filmed and the city of Edmonds and the Cascade
Symphony will be featured in a PBS program. Dr. Bob Anderson, who started the Cascade Symphony 50
years ago, was in attendance; he was the orchestra conductor when Councilmember Plunkett and he
attended Edmonds High School.
11. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Councilmember Buckshnis encouraged citizens to thank Mr. Tarte for everything he has done for the
City.
Councilmember Bernheim expressed concern with the $16,000 in independent expenditures on Edmonds
political campaigns. He found it a dangerous precedent and urged citizens to express their dissatisfaction
with national pacts spending that much money compared to the amount candidates typically spend. He
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 25, 2011
Page 15
recalled spending $8,000- $9,000 on his City Council campaign. He objected to an independent
expenditure from a political interest group in that amount.
Councilmember Fraley - Monillas thanked the Spady family for a wonderful grand opening at Dick's Drive
In. Mayor Cooper and Councilmembers Bernheim, Councilmember Petso and she attended the grand
opening.
Council President Peterson congratulated Councilmember Plunkett on the birth of his grandchild.
Convene in Executive Session
At 9:35 p.m., Mayor Cooper announced that the City Council would meet in executive session regarding
potential litigation per RCW 42.30.110(1)(i). He stated that the executive session was scheduled to last
approximately 15 minutes and would be held in the Jury Meeting Room, located in the Public Safety
Complex. Elected officials present at the executive session were: Mayor Cooper, and Councilmembers
Bernheim, Plunkett, Fraley - Monillas, Buckshnis, and Peterson. Others present were City Attorney Jeff
Taraday and City Clerk Sandy Chase. The executive session concluded at 9:55 p.m.
Mayor Cooper reconvened the regular City Council meeting at 9:58 p.m.
12. ADJOURN
With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 9:59 p.m.
Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes
October 25, 2011
Page 16