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11/22/2011 City CouncilEDMONDS CITY COUNCIL APPROVED MINUTES November 22, 2011 Following a reception at 6:30 p.m. in honor of Mayor Mike Cooper, the Edmonds City Council meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Cooper in the Council Chambers, 250 5t' Avenue North, Edmonds. The meeting was opened with the flag salute. ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT STAFF PRESENT Mike Cooper, Mayor Strom Peterson, Council President Steve Bernheim, Councilmember Michael Plunkett, Councilmember Lora Petso, Councilmember Adrienne Fraley- Monillas, Councilmember Diane Buckshnis, Councilmember ELECTED OFFICIALS ABSENT D. J. Wilson, Councilmember ALSO PRESENT Alex Springer, Student Representative r�R'119 941111iiI Wei y1" D1611 Al Compaan, Police Chief Stephen Clifton, Community Services /Economic Development Director Shawn Hunstock, Finance Director Carrie Hite, Parks & Recreation Director Carl Nelson, CIO Jeff Taraday, City Attorney Sandy Chase, City Clerk Jana Spellman, Senior Executive Council Asst. Jeannie Dines, Recorder COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETERSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY- MONILLAS, TO APPROVE THE AGENDA IN CONTENT AND ORDER. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. 2. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETERSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY- MONILLAS, 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 NOVEMBER 15, 2011. C. APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS #128933 THROUGH #129028 DATED NOVEMBER 17, 2011 FOR $693,738.54. APPROVAL OF PAYROLL DIRECT DEPOSIT AND CHECKS #50934 THROUGH #50956 FOR THE PERIOD NOVEMBER 1, 2011 THROUGH NOVEMBER 15, 2011 FOR $628,808.51. D. APPROVAL OF PAYMENT FOR HOLIDAY BUY BACK DAYS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT COMMISSIONED EMPLOYEES & POLICE SUPPORT SERVICE EMPLOYEES IN THE AMOUNT OF $135,645.66 AND KELLY DAY BUY BACK FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT COMMISSIONED EMPLOYEES IN THE AMOUNT OF $37,986.29 PER UNION CONTRACTS. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes November 22, 2011 Page 1 E. GENERAL FUND UPDATE - SEPTEMBER 2011. F. 3RD QUARTER BUDGET REPORT 2011. G. 2012 CONTRACT FOR EDMONDS CITY COUNCIL SR. EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT. H. INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT FOR SPECIAL WEAPONS AND TACTICS TEAM (SWAT). I. SET PROPERTY TAX LEVY RATE FOR 2012: ORDINANCE NO. 3860 PROVIDING FOR THE ANNUAL TAX LEVY BY INCREASING THE REGULAR PROPERTY TAX LEVY BY THE CURRENT 101% LEVY LIMIT, THEREBY LEVYING AN ESTIMATED REGULAR PROPERTY TAX LEVY OF $9,700,000, AN EMS LEVY OF $3,300,000 AND LEVYING $895,640 FOR VOTED INDEBTEDNESS FOR THE PUBLIC SAFETY COMPLEX, AND FIXING A TIME WHEN THE SAME SHALL BECOME EFFECTIVE. J. RESOLUTION NO. 1262.IN HONOR OF MAYOR COOPER'S SERVICE TO EDMONDS. 3. PRESENTATION OF RESOLUTION IN RECOGNITION OF MAYOR MIKE COOPER. Council President Peterson read Resolution No. 1262 commending, thanking and recognizing Mayor Mike Cooper for his service to the citizens of Edmonds as Mayor, County Council Member and State Representative. Council President Peterson thanked Mayor Cooper for all he has done in a short time as Mayor. Councilmember Plunkett commented when Mayor Cooper took office, the Finance Department was in disarray and the Council had little trust in the City's financial reporting. In a short time, Mayor Cooper brought in an interim Finance Director and with that person the Council was able to forge trust, reliability, accountability and respect with regard to the financial information that was provided to the Council. The Council is now ready to pass a budget on which there has been little question regarding the numbers. Councilmember Plunkett summarized Mayor Cooper deserves a great deal of credit for his work to rebuild the Council's trust with the Finance Department. Councilmember Plunkett also commended Mayor Cooper for creating friendships on the Council. Although several Councilmembers did not know Mayor Cooper well before he was appointed, after serving as Mayor, most would consider him a friend. Councilmember Fraley- Monillas commented she has had the privilege of knowing Mayor Cooper and his wife Crystal for the past 15 years. She commended Mayor Cooper for his sense of humor while serving as Mayor, recognizing the job of a Councilmember and a Mayor often requires a sense of humor. Councilmember Petso thanked Mayor Cooper for his contribution to the City. Councilmember Bernheim echoed the previous comments, pointing out Mayor Cooper's efforts to rebuild the trust with regard to the City's finances was a tremendous accomplishment. He cited the numerous transportation improvements in the past year including the Community Transit lot, the Sound Transit station, the Interurban Trail and the Shell Creek emergency road as well as continued emphasis on energy conservation efforts such as solar and New Energy Cities. He summarized Mayor Cooper was a friend of government who views government as having a positive role with available tax revenues. Councilmember Buckshnis echoed the previous comments. Council President Peterson commented he had the honor of traveling to Washington D.C. with Mayor Cooper and see him take a leadership role with the federal delegation and championing Edmonds' causes. He recognized Mayor Cooper for his steadfast work on environmental issues. He appreciated Mayor Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes November 22, 2011 Page 2 Cooper's leadership, friendship and guidance during a tough year. He also thanked Mayor Cooper for hiring Parks & Recreation Director Carrie Hite, a fantastic addition to the City. Mayor Cooper thanked the Council for their kind remarks, commenting it had been a pleasure to serve with them. During the past 14 -15 months, he has done what he thought was in the interest of a city he came to when he was 12 years old. It would not have been possible to accomplish the things that Councilmembers mentioned without the work of the Council and City staff. He relayed that Edmonds completed the installation of its electric car charging stations more quickly than any other city that received a federal grant. That was possible due to the dedication of the Council and City staff. Mayor Cooper looked forward to spending time with his three, soon to be four, grandchildren. He recognized his wife, Crystal, for her support during his 13 years in elected office and 31 years in public service. He and his wife will travel to Olympia the first week of December to celebrate the birth of their newest granddaughter and the swearing in of their son to the Olympia City Council. His son will be the fourth generation, beginning with his grandfather, to serve in elected office. 4. ANNUAL REPORT - PROSECUTOR Jim Zachor, Zachor & Thomas, distributed an outline highlighting successes during the past year. He introduced his partner, Melanie Thomas Dane, and the primary lead attorney for Edmonds prosecution, Rachel Hunter. He described their history with Edmonds, beginning in 1995with his former partner Jeffrey Goodwin, who is now a South District Court Judge. He thanked Chief Compaan and Judge Fair for their support. Mr. Zachor commented on the increase in domestic violence cases, noting over 50% of victims recant and decline to assist with prosecution. Ms. Hunter recently tried a domestic violence case without the victim and was able to convict the defendant using a 911 tape. Their firm now has eight attorneys; two new attorneys were added in the past year, one formerly with the Snohomish County Prosecutor's office and another formerly with the King County Prosecutor's office. Staff from their office are available 24/7 for officers in the field. Their office is also Special Prosecutor for Snohomish County, receiving referrals from the Snohomish County Prosecutor's office when there are conflicts. Mr. Zachor explained they have expanded their efforts in Edmonds substantially, with cases four days a week. Video hearings from the Snohomish County jail have reduced the use of police officers for transport as well as security. Lynnwood's participation has assisted with deferring some of the costs associated with video hearings and other cities are also interested in participating. Mr. Zachor explained one of his specialties is drug and felony forfeitures. They prosecute for the South Snohomish County Narcotics Task Force that Edmonds participates in. Prosecutions increased from $3,000 last year to $13,000 this year and there are plans to continue that increase. There have been numerous car seizures and over 200 weapons have been seized and forfeited. Melanie Thomas Dane, Zachor & Thomas described video -in- custody hearings that begin in 2010. Through a collaborative effort between the court, jail staff, public defender's office, and the judge, Edmonds is one of the first municipalities with a video -in- custody calendar with the county jail. They do video -in- custody hearings twice a week; the prosecutor, clerk and judge are in the courtroom and defendants and public defender at the county jail. They are able to resolve up to 10 cases at a time, alleviating security and budgetary issues associated with transporting defendants to court. Before video - in- custody hearings, cases were often not processed efficiently, resulting in additional jail time and additional costs. Their court time has expanded over the past ten years from one day to four days; they are also in court on Fridays when there are trials. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes November 22, 2011 Page 3 Ms. Dane explained they prosecute misdemeanor crimes as well as code enforcement cases and traffic infractions. She referred to their outline, advising the number of filings was criminal only and did not include code enforcement or traffic violations. They review charging decisions and work closely with the Police Department including a recent training session regarding new case law and search and seizure and report writing issues. Their office would have a much more difficult job in court if not for the City's outstanding Police Department; their success is due to the good job done by the Edmonds Police Department. She invited Councilmembers to watch court proceedings, noting other police agencies /departments often visit Edmonds to watch the video -in- custody hearings. 5. ANNUAL REPORT — PUBLIC DEFENDER Public Defender Jim Feldman commented the biggest issue for the City in the future is the State Supreme Court's opinion regarding standards for the number of cases a public defender can handle. The Court recently delayed their opinion until July 1, 2012. He anticipated the Court would give cities at least 18 months to budget for increased costs. He expected Edmonds' public defender budget would double if the standards that have been proposed by the State Bar Association are passed and would require at least 4 -5 attorneys. The increased caseload cited by Mr. Zachor and Ms. Dane has not adversely impacted his office and they have maintained the same staffing level. He noted fewer police officers result in fewer filings, decreasing the workload of the public defender's office. He looked forward to another year as the City's public defender. 6. AUDIENCE COMMENTS 32nd District State Representative Cindy Ryu, Shoreline, thanked Mayor Cooper for his service, both to the City of Edmonds and as a Shoreline firefighter. She referred to Agenda Item 9, expressing her support for the Highway 99 alignment even though the cost is considerably higher, recognizing that may be the only opportunity for Highway 99 to be an economic development corridor particularly for transit oriented development. If light rail is constructed on 1 -5, she was uncertain whether Metro would be able to provide east -west connections to allow riders to reach the freeway alignment without driving. She expressed appreciation for the letter from Mayor Cooper requesting light rail through Edmonds via Highway 99 be considered if a Highway 99 alignment is studied further. Don Hall, Edmonds, commended Mayor Cooper. He also spoke in favor of the following decision packages: • Financial software update — greater transparency requires up -to -date software to improve efficiency and free up staff time and possibly increase the number of fiber optic customers who generate revenue for the City. • Public Records and Document Management System — the City cannot operate efficiently with an antiquated system. As public records requests continue to increase, all records need to be quickly and easily accessible, saving time and money. The setup cost is a one -time contracted expense. The City has considered upgrading this system for least four years; continued delay costs the City money. Parks Street Tree Maintenance Costs — a tree planting program requires accompanying maintenance to avoid problems. Removing trees due to insufficient maintenance is not a good use of City money. Mr. Hall summarized the above were things that private industry would not hesitate to fund because of savings in the long run. Next, he agreed a ban on polystyrene was the right thing to do but urged the Council not to "talk it to death" but simply do the research and pass an ordinance. He also urged the public to support small businesses on November 26 Small Business Saturday. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes November 22, 2011 Page 4 Matt Gamble, Edmonds, inquired about electrical vehicle charging stations, noting there was already a parking crisis downtown. He has not seen any electric vehicles using the station on 6"' & Main and questioned the purpose of the charging stations, noting they are a good idea but before their time. Roger Hertrich, Edmonds, referred to Agenda Item 7, and relayed his concern with the lack of an over - the -track emergency access to the waterfront. He pointed out the resolution against coal trains identifies the problem and suggested using the whereas clauses in the resolution to identify the need for an over -the- track emergency access. Next, he thanked Mayor Cooper for providing leadership during the past 18 months and his efforts to make improvements in the City's finance staff and financial reports. He expressed his appreciation for how well the Council and Mayor Cooper have worked together. 7. RESOLUTION AGAINST COAL TRAINS Council President Peterson explained the proposed coal train terminal in Cherry Creek near Bellingham would result in as many as 18 (9 trains each way) 1� /z mile long trains traveling through Edmonds each day. The trains have multiple engines resulting in increased noise and their length and frequency could significantly delay access to the waterfront as well as exacerbate traffic congestion associated with ferry loading. Several other cities are considering a similar resolution. COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETERSON MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY- MONILLAS, TO ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 1263, A RESOLUTION STATING EDMONDS' OPPOSITION TO TRANSPORTING COAL ACROSS WASHINGTON STATE AND ON THE BURLINGTON NORTHERN SANTA FE RAILWAY ALONG PUGET SOUND TO EXPORT FOR OVERSEAS CONSUMPTION. Councilmember Plunkett asked if the Council had been provided a presentation opposing or supporting coal trains. Council President Peterson answered no. Councilmember Plunkett summarized the only information the Council has been provided, outside individual's research, is the proposed resolution. Council President Peterson agreed. Councilmember Buckshnis reported she has attended a few presentations regarding coal trains and suggested a presentation be provided to the Council. She planned to share the resolution with WRIA 8 and other water resource areas along the coast. She expressed support for the resolution either tonight or following an educational presentation. Councilmember Fraley- Monillas recognized there was some urgency because the Governor is currently making decisions regarding coal trains on the I -5 corridor. Her concern for Edmonds was, 1) the emergency access issue mentioned by Mr. Hertrich, and 2) environmental hazards from a potential spill from a coal train into Puget Sound and air quality /health issues from coal dust. It was her understanding the Governor planned to approve coal trains but it is the Council's obligation to register Edmonds' environmental, health and safety health concerns. She supported having a presentation regarding coal trains but was uncertain there was time to delay submitting the resolution to the Governor. Councilmember Petso was generally supportive of the resolution but did not have any information other than what she has read in the newspaper. She was willing to postpone approval of the resolution to allow time for a presentation. Council President Peterson explained approval of the resolution is time sensitive particularly due to the upcoming holidays. There will be a number of community forums including one on December 1 in Edmonds. He planned to work with local groups to have a presentation made to the Council and to determine if there is additional action the Council can take beyond a statement of resolution. As quickly as decisions are being made at the State level, it is important for Edmonds to take a leadership role. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes November 22, 2011 Page 5 THE VOTE ON THE MOTION CARRIED (5 -0 -1), COUNCILMEMBER PLUNKETT ABSTAINED. 8. RESOLUTION APPOINTING A NEW MEMBER TO THE REGIONAL FIRE AUTHORITY PLANNING COMMITTEE. Mayor Cooper, a member of the Regional Fire Authority (RFA) Planning Committee, explained that the committee meets next week, one day after he leaves office. It is important for the City to have its full delegation in place due to several important issues. In January the Council will also need to appoint a member to replace Councilmember Wilson. He recommended the Council appoint Council President Peterson to replace him on the RFA Planning Committee, joining Councilmembers Petso and Wilson. COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY- MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS, TO APPROVE RESOLUTION NO. 1264, APPOINTING COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETERSON TO THE REGIONAL FIRE AUTHORITY PLANNING COMMITTEE. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. 9. REQUEST TO SUPPORT AN I -5 ALTERNATIVE AS THE PRELIMINARY PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE IN SOUND TRANSIT'S NORTH CORRIDOR TRANSIT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT. Community Services /Economic Development Director Stephen Clifton explained in November 2008, voters approved Sound Transit 2 (ST2). The North Corridor Transit Project portion of ST2 implements the ST2 light rail project from Northgate to the Lynnwood Transit Center. A Sound Transit alternatives analysis studied several high capacity transit options and alignments. The results of the analysis has led Sound Transit and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to further consider two alternative light rail alignments, one along the I -5 corridor, the other a SR 99/1 -5 alignment hybrid, as well as a no -build alternative for inclusion in an EIS. The City has reviewed the ST2 North Corridor Alternative Analysis in addition to attending an October 11, 2011 Environmental Impact Statement scoping meeting held in Shoreline. Both the I -5 and I -5 /SR 99 hybrid light rail alternatives meet the State's requirement for high capacity transit and both the I -5 and the I -5 /SR 99 light rail hybrid alternatives, between the Northgate area in Seattle and Everett, have the capacity to accommodate the long -range plan vision of eventually connecting with Everett. The Snohomish County Infrastructure Coordination Committee (ICC) and the Cities of Mountlake Terrace, Lynnwood, Shoreline, and Seattle have expressed support for an all I -5 alignment. Edmonds staff and administration also supports this position and requests the City Council express support for an all I -5 alignment. He referred to a proposed draft November 22, 2011 letter from the City of Edmonds to Sound Transit citing support for review and consideration. Reasons cited by the ICC, Mountlake Terrace, Lynnwood and Edmonds staff supporting the I -5 alignment include the following: • An I -5 corridor would be the most efficient and effective routing to establish Link light rail service and is consistent with the original Sound Transit Long Range Vision. This option would provide light rail service to the most citizens (regionally), in the most productive corridor, at the earliest opportunity. • The I -5 alternative is the highest performing and most effective in addressing: travel time and operational efficiency, cost to implement, best performance in terms of Sound Transit's criteria, and the least impact on the surrounding environment. • The I -5 alternative provides connections to regional centers more efficiently with a shorter travel distance and quicker travel time. Travel time for the I -5 alternative is 4 minutes faster from Lynnwood to Northgate than the I -5 /SR 99 hybrid alternative. This time savings becomes especially important as the service is extended to Everett. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes November 22, 2011 Page 6 • The I -5 alternative has greater feasibility because its estimated costs are consistent with Sound Transit's financial plan for this project while the 1 -5 /SR 99 hybrid costs are not consistent with the financial plan. The I -5 alternative is up to $590 - $670 million (total capital difference between the two alternatives in year 2010 dollars) cheaper than the 1 -5 /SR 99 hybrid alternative. The Sound Transit financial plan states a possible difference of up to $770 million. This savings is particularly important for future extensions of the service. • Ridership within Snohomish County along an I -5 alignment is more than 600,000 higher annually compared to the I -5 /SR 99 hybrid alternative (between Northgate and Lynnwood). • The SR 99 option could result in substantial delays in connecting Snohomish County to the system within King County due to the substantial increase in cost for the SR 99 corridor related to complications with property and right of way acquisition/condemnations, utility relocations, etc. • The City of Edmonds would be most efficiently served by multiple north south transit corridors that include Commuter Rail along the west edge of Edmonds, Bus Rapid Transit along the SR 99 Corridor, and future Link light rail just east of the City of Edmonds. • In 2005, the City of Edmonds approved Resolution No. 1117; Section 1.1.1 expressed support for "a planning study from Ash Way to Everett Station in Snohomish County for Link LRT, which identifies an I -5 alignment." This is consistent with a position to support an I -5 Light Rail alignment. Support for an I -5 alignment would also be consistent with a June 24, 2006 letter from the City of Edmonds expressing support for helping fund a Mountlake Terrace Light Rail Station as part of ST2. • Going into the EIS process with a unified preliminary preferred alternative within Snohomish County will save both time and money. Although Edmonds staff support an I -5 light rail alternative, during the Sound Transit October 11, 2011 EIS Scoping meeting, Edmonds staff raised a concern about the Highway 99/I -5 hybrid alternative. More specifically, according to the Highway 99/I -5 hybrid alternative, light rail would continue northwesterly from Northgate towards SR 99 eventually connecting to SR 99 within the City of Seattle before turning northward towards and through the City of Shoreline along SR 99. At 205th/245th Street, the light rail line is depicted as turning easterly towards I -5 at which point light rail is depicted as extending northward towards Lynnwood along I -5. If a SR 99 alternative will be studied further, the City has requested that the study include extending light rail along SR 99 through the City of Edmonds and not stopping at the City's south city limits, i.e., 205th/245th. A letter prepared on behalf of Mayor Cooper was sent to Sound Transit on October 26, 2011 to ensure that this specific concern was addressed prior to the Environmental Impact Statement Scoping comment deadline of October 31, 2011. Mr. Clifton summarized light rail transit service will be crucial to mobility in Snohomish County for decades to come. The I -5 alternative has clear advantages for Snohomish County and this is an opportune time for Edmonds to weigh in on this important decision. Sound Transit has asked various agencies to take a position on a preferred alignment. Councilmember Fraley- Monillas was disappointed to be moving away from a Hwy. 99 alignment but understood the increased cost. She appreciated the continued effort to extend light rail on the I -5 corridor. COUNCILMEMBER BERNHEIM MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PLUNKETT, TO EXPRESS THE COUNCIL'S SUPPORT FOR AN I -5 ALTERNATIVE AS THE PRELIMINARY PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE IN SOUND TRANSIT'S NORTH CORRIDOR TRANSIT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. I[ I�ily oil] W1 V1116107011Y:I0-111PAffl]O IOYY Councilmember Buckshnis explained today is a new day in Edmonds' finances; financials will be prepared according to industry standards. In the past, the Animal Benefit Fund and the Council Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes November 22, 2011 Page 7 Contingency were designated in the General Fund but were not fund appropriations. A new Animal Benefit appropriation has been created in addition to the Council Contingency budget. She displayed various reports, describing improvements that have been made to the reporting methods. She explained all projections now start with the modified working capital as a beginning fund balance and include accounts payable and accounts receivable. Citizens can now tie the numbers in the Comprehensive Annual Finance Report (CAFR) to projections. She expressed her thanks to former Interim Finance Director Jim Tarte and Finance Director Shawn Hunstock for their assistance. In the future, staff will assist with developing reserve and investment policies. Mr. Hunstock displayed the Executive Summary - Current Forecast 2012 Budget Deliberations (Strategic Outlook), explaining the General Fund beginning fund balance was added to this report to illustrate the accumulated impact of the 2012 . budget under consideration as well as projections through 2016. The 2011 beginning balance of $6.8 million is from the audited 201lfinancial statement. He displayed a list of 2012 corrections and carry - forwards from 2011 and a list of decision packages. He noted the budget ordinance does not include the $66,000 for the 30 Year Right of Use on Fiber to County which was not included as a decision package in the 2012 preliminary budget. The spreadsheets can be updated if the Council approves funding for that item or changes /adds /deletes any other decision packages. Mr. Hunstock displayed the Executive Summary - Current Forecast from the 2012 preliminary budget and the same report updated to include corrections, adjustments and decision packages. Councilmember Plunkett referred to the updated Executive Summary - Current Forecast and asked why the 2012 column included an amount for corrections, adjustments and decision packages when the Council had not yet made decisions. Mr. Hunstock responded an assumption was made in drafting the budget ordinance to include the total of corrections, carry - forwards and decision packages which total $292,955. Councilmember Plunkett clarified the 2012 preliminary budget column on the updated Executive Summary - Current Forecast reflects all the decision packages. Mr. Hunstock answered it includes all the decision packages except the $66,000 for the 30 Year Right of Use on Fiber to County. Councilmember Plunkett asked whether the Human Resources Department included a full -time manager. Interim Human Resources /Parks & Recreation Director Carrie Hite answered Mary Ann Hardie is currently the acting Human Resources Manager; she was previously the Human Resources Analyst. Ms. Hardie has a bachelor's degree in business and a certificate in human resources. Councilmember Bernheim recalled each department presented the Council with 2 % -3% cut scenarios. Mayor Cooper explained that was part of a public workshop in late August/early September. Councilmember Bernheim asked whether those cuts were reflected in the budget. Mayor Cooper answered the 2012 preliminary budget reflects some of those cuts; an overall cut of 2% was made, but those cuts were not made across the board. Councilmember Bernheim asked if there were plans to hire a replacement Human Resources Director at the previous salary and what impact the vacancy in the Human Resources Director position had on the 2012 budget. Mayor Cooper answered any organizational decisions will be up to the new Mayor. At least two full -time staff members are needed in Human Resources however it is organized. He acknowledged a request for reorganization could result in a minimal savings but not the full Human Resources Director's salary. He elevated Ms. Hardie to acting Human Resources Manager and consistent with policy, Ms. Hite is receiving compensation for doing more than one job. There is also an on -call consultant overseeing large projects. A decision regarding permanent staffing will need to be made as Ms. Hite can only perform both jobs for a limited amount of time. Councilmember Bernheim referred to the capital expenditure for the roundabout at Five Corners (page 156 of the 2012 preliminary budget) and asked when a motion to challenge the continuation of that Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes November 22, 2011 Page 8 project would be appropriate. Mayor Cooper suggested it could be done when the Council considers the Capital Facilities Plan (CFP) on December 6. Mr. Hunstock explained capital projects are itemized in the budget and action could be taken as part of the budget approval. An alternative would be when the CFP and Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) are presented for Council adoption. If the project is pulled at that point, it would essentially remove the need for funding and a budget amendment would be required in 2012 . to eliminate funding. Mayor Cooper pointed out if the Council makes a decision not to move forward with that project, the City will need to repay grant funds. He recommended the Council address that project during consideration of the CFP on December 6. Councilmember Buckshnis questioned the amount listed for decision packages on the Executive Summary - Current Forecast 2012 Budget Deliberations ($177,633) versus the list of decision packages that total $243,633, a difference of $66,000. Mr. Hunstock explained the $66,000 for the 30 Year Right of Use on Fiber to County was not included in the decision packages in the preliminary budget and therefore was not included in the budget ordinance. It could be added if the Council chose to fund it. Councilmember Buckshnis inquired about the $43,320 listed as the Mayor's Budget Change in Fund Balance on the Executive Summary- Current Forecast 2012 Budget Deliberations. Mr. Hunstock answered that was taken from the preliminary budget. Councilmember Buckshnis observed with the corrections, carry- forwards and decision packages, there is a surplus due to revenues exceeding expenditures in 2011 . which would allow the Council to balance the budget. Mr. Hunstock agreed the budget would be balanced in 2012 but the additional revenue is a one -time cash flow item. Councilmember Buckshnis referred to funding of the 511 Fund. Mr. Hunstock explained last week the Council made a decision to fund the B Fund for 2011. The preliminary budget did not include funding of the B Fund in 2012. Funding the B Fund in 2011 provides more flexibility not to fund it in 2012 and possibly not fund it another year in the future. Councilmember Buckshnis asked how funding of the B Fund for 2011 was reflected on Executive Summary- Current Forecast 2012 Budget Deliberations. Mr. Hunstock answered it was not reflected in that report. Councilmember Buckshnis observed there would still be a surplus at year end with funding the B Fund in 2011 as well as all the decision packages. Mr. Hunstock explained the Change in Fund Balance reflected on the Executive Summary - Current Forecast 2012 Budget Deliberations report ($668,510) will decrease as a result of the Council's adoption of the 2011 year end budget amendment to include funding the B Fund in 2011. Councilmember Plunkett suggested scheduling a public hearing regarding the CFP on December 6. Council President Peterson recalled during the public hearing on the CFP /CIP earlier this year, the Council requested further detail regarding a several projects including the Five Corners Roundabout and signals at 91h & Caspers Street, 91" & Main and 9'h & Walnut. Public Works Director Phil Williams plans to provide a detailed report on the Five Corners Roundabout and Council President Peterson suggested delaying any action on that project until staff provides their report and recommendation. He noted the financial impacts if the Council backs out of the roundabout project are significant enough that it warrants further discussion. Councilmember Plunkett recalled Planning Manager Rob Chave stating a public hearing would be required if changes were made to the CFP. Council President Peterson offered to research and suggested the Council take public comment on the CFP /CIP if a public hearing was not required. Councilmember Plunkett inquired about the salary for the positions in the Human Resources Department. Ms. Hite answered the approximate salary for the analysis position is $50,000- $60,000, the salary for the manager is $75,000- $80,000 and the salary for the director is $110,000. COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETERSON, TO ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 3861, ADOPTING THE 2012 BUDGET. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes November 22, 2011 Page 9 Mayor Cooper clarified the ordinance included all the decision packages with the exception of the $66,000 for the 30 Year Right of Use on Fiber to County. If the Council does not want to fund one of the decision packages, an amendment will be required to remove it. COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PLUNKETT, TO AMEND THE MOTION TO ADD $66,000 FOR THE 30 YEAR RIGHT OF USE ON FIBER TO COUNTY. CIO Carl Nelson explained the City currently has a 3 -year unlimited use of fiber through Blackrock. At the end of that three year period, the City will pay $500 /month for that fiber. A group of cities were offered a one -time offer to pay $300,000 for the fiber, an approximately 50% discount. As cities decline to participate due to budget issues, the amount per city increases, making it less attractive for Edmonds. COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS WITHDREW THE MOTION WITH THE AGREEMENT OF THE SECOND. Councilmember Plunkett pointed out if the situation changed, a budget amendment could be made to include funds in the budget. Councilmember Bernheim commented although he would like to have all the decision packages, he was uncertain how he would vote on those that could be deferred or do not involve essential services. Even $5,000 - $10,000 was significant to him because a majority of the voters have indicated they want to minimize government expenditures regardless of the social benefit. He suggested if the current lawnmowers were too dangerous or falling apart, they could be stored and citizens "deal with some long, green grass next year." He was opposed to cemetery seasonal staff, pedestrian signal head upgrade, fuel station upgrade, and the Landpride pull behind mower. He preferred to defer those items and allow the City to get by next year without them. He asked Councilmembers to state whether they felt these were important enough additions to the City's infrastructure that they should be funded in spite of the City's fiscal circumstances. Councilmember Fraley - Monillas preferred to look at expenditures as a whole and not these individual items. She was hesitant to remove funding for these items that department directors have argued the need for and instead suggested the Council consider other expenditure reductions over the next 6 -12 months. She did not want to have overgrown grass at the City's parks. Councilmember Petso suggested Councilmembers consider which decision packages are General Fund expenditures and which are not. The four decision packages on the bottom of the list (Walker riding lawn mower, cemetery seasonal staff, pedestrian signal head upgrade and fuel station upgrade) are not funded from the General Fund. She was not implying the Council be careless with those funds but to use that information in their decision - making process. She pointed out the finance software updates and additions and the public records /document management system may have the potential to pay for themselves over time. COUNCILMEMBER PETSO MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS, TO AMEND THE MOTION TO REMOVE THE FUEL STATION UPGRADE. Councilmember Bernheim expressed support for the amendment. Mayor Cooper advised funding for this item was not from the General Fund. Mr. Hunstock clarified it would be funded from the Equipment Replacement Fund. Councilmember Fraley - Monillas asked the implication of not upgrading the fuel station. Mayor Cooper recalled Mr. Williams' report that the fuel station is aging, parts are difficult if not impossible to obtain, Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes November 22, 2011 Page 10 and the software can no longer be upgraded to account for fuel consumption as well as staff would like. He summarized the equipment is worn out and cannot be replaced when it fails. Council President Peterson did not support the amendment. Although the City has added fuel saving vehicles to the City's fleet, City vehicles consume tens of thousands of gallons of fuel a year. In the broad scope of controlling and tracking costs, this is a very important upgrade. He recalled the decision package also included equipment upgrades and he was supportive of any measure that would prevent a fuel spill. Not having the proper procedures in place to account for fuel could also create problems with the State auditor. He summarized the fuel station upgrade was a wise investment. Student Representative Springer echoed Council President Peterson's opposition to the amendment. He recalled Mr. Williams stating the fuel station upgrades had been needed for years, similar to the public records /document management system. Councilmember Bernheim explained unless expenditures were removed from the budget, expenditures in 2012 will be $33.2 million compared to revenues of $32.9 million. Just because there are funds available in the reserve, he was not inclined to spend more next year than the City earned. As a friend of government he wanted to fund all the decision packages but was concerned the voters did not agree. He preferred there be some expenditures reductions to fund the decision packages. Councilmember Fraley- Monillas agreed with Councilmember Bernheim but she had been in the Public Works yard and seen the condition of the fuel station — it is an antique. She did not support the amendment to remove the fuel station upgrade. UPON ROLL CALL THE VOTE ON THE AMENDMENT FAILED (2 -4), COUNCILMEMBERS PETSO AND BERNHEIM VOTING YES; AND COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETERSON AND COUNCILMEMBERS BUCKSHNIS, FRALEY- MONILLAS, AND PLUNKETT VOTING NO. Mayor Cooper clarified as a result of the failed amendment, the fuel station upgrade remains in the budget. Councilmember Buckshnis referred to the Miscellaneous Contingency in the budget, suggesting its use either be restricted or it be removed from the budget. 111 X Al 1611111" Mayor Cooper clarified the Miscellaneous Contingency was added because the budget was trimmed to the point there was no wiggle room. The Miscellaneous Contingency would allow staff to come to Mayor and/or Council, depending on how its use is restricted, to fund items. With the removal of the Miscellaneous Contingency, budget amendments will be required to fund unanticipated expenditures. Councilmember Buckshnis explained this is the first time a Miscellaneous Contingency was included in the budget and was included due to the lean General Fund budget. She did not support having a Miscellaneous Contingency and preferred to either remove it or place additional restrictions on its use. She pointed out removing the Miscellaneous Contingency from the budget would free up $165,000. Council President Peterson did not support the proposed amendment. He explained each department previously had a contingency fund; those were eliminated and combined into one contingency fund, making it easier for the public and Council to track. He found it very short sighted to plan on using ending cash to cover unanticipated expenditures such as broken HVAC systems rather than budgeting a .5% Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes November 22, 2011 Page 11 Miscellaneous Contingency. He concluded with a budget this size, spending only .5% for contingencies would be fantastic. If the Council wished, language could be added to ensure the Council was provided quarterly reports on the use of the contingency or its use suspended until the fourth quarter. He trusted City staff to make the right decisions with regard to the use of a Miscellaneous Contingency. Councilmember Fraley- Monillas expressed support for the amendment, pointing out the $165,000 would fund the public records/document management system and the finance software update. She preferred to use funds from a contingency rather than postponing desperately needed computer upgrades. Councilmember Petso agreed staff will feel betrayed if the Miscellaneous Contingency was removed because it was included with the understanding that the funds could be used for expenses that were beyond staff's control. She supported the amendment because staff can always request a budget amendment for unanticipated expenditures. She concluded it did not matter whether the funds were included in the budget now or a budget amendment was made later. She recognized removing the Miscellaneous Contingency did not save any money because she agreed with Council President Peterson that that amount of unforeseen expenditures were likely to arise. City Attorney Jeff Taraday clarified the difference between a contingency fund by statute and a contingency appropriation in the General Fund which is currently included in the preliminary budget. RCW 35A.33.146 contemplates a contingency fund and it is essentially a vehicle for setting money aside for an unforeseen event. By statute, administration must request the Council's approval to transfer funds from the contingency fund into one of the operating funds. It operates much like a budget amendment but is already included in the budget. Mayor Cooper clarified the Miscellaneous Contingency is a line item in the Non - Departmental section of the budget. He asked whether that was an appropriation under the Mayor's direction. Mr. Taraday answered yes if it was within the General Fund. Mr. Taraday clarified if the issue was Council control rather than setting aside the money, his explanation was intended to provide a distinction between how to do it with Council control and without Council control. Mayor Cooper explained the way the Miscellaneous Contingency is currently budgeted; it does not require Council action, only the Mayor's approval. Mr. Taraday agreed. THE VOTE ON THE AMENDMENT CARRIED (5 -1), COUNCIL PRESIDENT PETERSON VOTING NO. Mayor Cooper explained the budget ordinance currently includes the following decision packages: • Finance software updates and additions • Public records/document management system • Landpride pull behind mower • Parks street maintenance costs • Class software at Yost Pool — initial costs and maintenance • Walker riding mower • Cemetery seasonal staff • Pedestrian signal head upgrade • Fuel station upgrade Councilmember Plunkett commented he was impressed to learn the acting Human Resources Manager has a business degree and human resources certification. He has not been persuaded that another person is needed in Human Resources but was willing to learn more. 1- , i , _ .... . ... -1161 a.. .. 11112 1 _ , , , _ , , , _ ...... . ...., , _�.......... l k , k1ke W12 , ! , Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes November 22, 2011 Page 12 Councilmember Plunkett referred to Mayor Cooper's statement that the Human Resources Department needs two FTE, commenting he was not convinced a Human Resources Director was needed rather than a Human Resources Manager who reports to the Mayor. He was open to the new administration providing his thoughts /ideas. At this time he felt a Human Resources Manager who has a business degree and a Human Resources certification was sufficient. Councilmember Fraley - Monillas inquired about the difference between a Human Resources Manager's and Human Resources Director's job duties, recognizing there is an approximately $35,000 difference in salary. Mayor Cooper answered personnel decisions with regard to the organization are the Mayor's decision; the Council controls the funding. In the City's structure, typically a manager does not report directly to the Mayor; directors report directly to the Mayor. For example, Ms. Hite is the Parks & Recreation Director; there are three managers in her departments. Mr. Williams is the Public Works Director; there are 2 -3 managers in the Public Works Department. In the City's history there have been Human Resources Managers. He summarized the Council controls the money, the Mayor typically controls the organizational chart. The Council's control over the organizational chart can be accomplished by removing funds. Councilmember Plunkett clarified the motion was not to remove the Human Resources Director position, only to removing funding for the position. Mayor Cooper pointed out by removing funding for the Human Resources Director, the Council was funding only one position in the Human Resources Department at the level of manager. Councilmember Bernheim acknowledged the Human Resources Department requires two people. He was not convinced it required that high a pay level. He anticipated a Human Resources Manager could do the job at a $30,000 annual salary savings. He pointed out the elimination of the Fire Department reduced the number of employees the Human Resources Director was responsible for by at least 50. He recognized the importance of the Human Resources Department but felt it could be accomplished with a competent Human Resources Manager. He supported the amendment because he wanted to reduce the budget for that position by $30,000. If the incoming Mayor felt it was impossible to hire adequate human resources staff within those constraints, he could request the Council change its decision. COUNCILMEMBER BERNHEIM MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER PLUNKETT, TO AMEND THE AMENDMENT TO REDUCE THE NEXT YEAR'S BUDGET AND SUBSEQUENT BUDGETS BY $30,000. Councilmember Bernheim explained $30,000 is the difference between the currently $110,000 annual salary for the Human Resources Director and the $80,000 salary for a Human Resources Manager. Councilmember Fraley - Monillas reiterated her question regarding the difference between a Human Resources Manager and a Human Resources Director. Mayor Cooper answered in the City's organizational chart, a manager typically does not report directly to the Mayor. However, in the City's history, there have been instances where managers have reported directly to the Mayor. A manager typically does not have the same administrative responsibilities as a director because managers have a director supervising them. Ms. Hite explained in her municipal experience, directors usually have more experience with regard to the macro -level view of the City, policy development, relationship with Council to move items forward, and more in -depth experience as part of the executive team to assist the Council in making decisions. A manager -level position is more hands on and directly involved with day -to -day operations and not necessarily policy -level decisions. Councilmember Plunkett observed a director should have a good relationship with the Council in order to move things forward. Ms. Hite agreed that was one of the characteristics of a director. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes November 22, 2011 Page 13 Councilmember Petso explained the intent appeared to be to remove funding for the position, making the department subject to reorganization by the new Mayor. She felt that was better accomplished by the original amendment than the amendment to the amendment. THE VOTE ON THE AMENDMENT TO THE AMENDMENT FAILED (1 -5), COUNCILMEMBER BERNHEIM VOTING YES. Council President Peterson commented the proposed amendment constrains the incoming Mayor. He was uncertain how a city with 249 employees could operate with a Human Resources Department with a staffing level of 1 and $60,000- $70,000 in funding. Councilmember Plunkett responded the proposed amendment creates opportunity for the incoming Mayor to utilize his experience with various different public entities. Councilmember Buckshnis asked about the consultant reviewing the non - represented employee policy. Ms. Hite answered the consultant will make a presentation to the Council on December 6 regarding comparative cities for the non - represented salary survey. If agreement is reached with regard to comparative cities, the consultant will conduct the salary survey and return to the Council in January. She expected the consultant's work to be completed in February. Both the Human Resources Analyst who is now the acting Human Resources Manager and the Human Resources Director positions are non - represented positions. Ms. Hite reported she has been working approximately 20 hours /week in the Human Resources Department and the acting Human Resources Manager Mary Ann Hardie has been working 60 hours a week to keep up with the workload. She summarized the Human Resources Department requires two full- time staff members Student Representative Springer opposed the amendment to eliminate the Human Resources Director position, anticipating the new Mayor will recommend filling the second position. Eliminating the Human Resources Director balances the budget for a period of time until a budget amendment will be needed to fund the new position. He preferred to fund the position now either with a reduced salary of $80,000 or the existing $110,000 and allow the new Mayor to make a decision regarding how to fill the position. Councilmember Buckshnis observed the proposed amendment would eliminate the Human Resources Director position but still allow two employees in Human Resources. Mayor Cooper clarified the amendment is to eliminate funding for the Human Resources Director position and does not leave enough money for more than the current employee. If the new Mayor wishes to add a person to the department, he will need to ask the Council to add the FTE to the budget. Councilmember Fraley - Monillas observed the proposed amendment would eliminate the second position from the Human Resources Department, leaving only 1 FTE in Human Resources for 200+ staff. She did not support the amendment, recognizing one person could not do the job. Councilmember Plunkett observed there were currently two employees in Human Resources; the new Mayor can propose to the Council how to move forward. The two people working in Human Resources, Ms. Hardie and Ms. Hite, will continue until the new Mayor provides his vision for the Human Resources Department. Councilmember Fraley - Monillas observed the amendment will eliminate one FTE, leaving only one staff person in Human Resources. She questioned how Ms. Hite could be counted as one of the Human Resources employees when she is the Parks & Recreation Director and only temporarily covering in Human Resources. Councilmember Plunkett responded the Human Resources Department would Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes November 22, 2011 Page 14 continue the way it is currently operating, with Ms. Hardie and Ms. Hite, until the new Mayor makes a recommendation to the Council. Mayor Cooper clarified this budget takes effect January 1, 2011, not the day the new Mayor takes office. There are staff members in interim positions now until the Council and new Mayor make a decision on replacing the director. Approving the amendment will remove the funding for the director and require the new Mayor to present an organizational plan for staffing the Human Resources Department. Councilmember Bernheim expressed his support for the amendment and urged Councilmembers to support it. He acknowledged the Human Resources Department required two staff members but he felt it was overkill to pay $110,000 /year for a director in a 2- person department. He acknowledged this reduction would not make or break the City's budget. When the new Mayor takes office, he can present a plan for the Council's evaluation. Councilmember Fraley- Monillas clarified the amendment is saying two staff members are needed in Human Resources but allows the new Mayor to propose a plan to the Council. Councilmember Plunkett agreed. VOTING NO. Mayor Cooper restated the main motion as amended: TO ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 3861 AS AMENDED, REMOVING THE $1.65,000 MISCELLANEOUS CONTINGENCY FROM THE GENERAL FUND NON - DEPARTMENTAL AND REMOVE FUNDING FOR THE HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR. Councilmember Plunkett complimented Mayor Cooper for one of the best, most efficient budgets under the most difficult, trying circumstances. Councilmember Plunkett could not remember a budget season that had so many distractions including the election, personnel issues, etc. He recalled what a struggle the budget process had been the past few years compared to this year's efficient, effective and helpful process. He complimented Mayor Cooper for the professional, thoughtful way he went about the budget in spite of everything going on around him, keeping the City's best interests at heart. THE VOTE ON THE MAIN MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. 11. DISCUSSION REGARDING CITY POLYSTYRENE POLICY Councilmember Bernheim explained the Council previously discussed a polystyrene ban. The proposed policy does the following: 1. Bans the use of polystyrene food packaging products by the City and on City property by City tenants. 2. Requires food service merchants to make recycling available on the premises where food is sold. Councilmember Bernheim clarified the proposed policy does not ban food sales in polystyrene containers by private business. He highlighted the City's duty to protect the environment. He noted State law establishes waste reduction as a priority of local government and requires local government to be aggressive with recycling. He further noted local government is responsible for handling the waste stream. He suggested the Council ban the use of polystyrene by the City and its tenants, and postpone the recycling requirement to a future date. He felt a polystyrene ban was a no brainer, recognizing in 20 years citizens will not be allowed to throw away single use polystyrene containers. He anticipated that would require a ban on the use of polystyrene as the public was unlikely to discontinue the use voluntarily. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes November 22, 2011 Page 15 COUNCILMEMBER FRALEY - MONILLAS MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BUCKSHNIS, TO DIRECT THE CITY ATTORNEY TO PREPARE AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE CITY POLYSTYRENE POLICY. Councilmember Fraley - Monillas commented this is a great start and she preferred to go further by banning polystyrene in general as Seattle as done. She suggested Edmonds learn from the City of Seattle's implementation of a polystyrene ban, noting she had not heard many complaints about Seattle's policy. She summarized this was an important environmental issue. Councilmember Petso observed Councilmember Bernheim recommended the Council only proceed with a ban on the use of polystyrene food packaging products by the City and by City tenants. Councilmember Fraley - Monillas clarified her motion was both the ban on the use of polystyrene food packaging products by the City and City tenants as well as requiring food merchants to make recycling available. MOTION CARRIED (5 -1), COUNCILMEMBER PETSO VOTING NO. f(► 11 7�IY5[�J LIaWidol `11Y 7"IY5M toWWWo1104 1 Do 1110 Mr. Clifton explained on October 18, 2011, . he provided an update to the Council regarding the Strategic Planning and Visioning process in addition to presenting a proposal to adjust the Strategic Planning schedule; the Council expressed support for this proposal. Staff has been working with Beckwith Consulting Group (BCG) to discuss the remaining tasks and the timeline identified within the adopted scope of work as well as adjusting the overall Strategic Planning and Visioning Schedule. Adjusting the schedule will result in holding retreats later than identified within the originally adopted scope of work. The proposed calendar with adjusted dates indicates the next proposed City Council /Planning Board/Economic Development Commission Retreat will take place on January 24, 2012. In the interim, BCG is working with staff on finalizing a press release in addition to business, customer, visitor, employee, adult and youth surveys. A stakeholder list and survey are also being prepared and staff will work with BCG to schedule stakeholder interviews to take place in mid- January 2012. Internal and external scans of existing conditions related to Edmonds, the region and the state are also underway and will be presented during the January 2012 retreat. Mr. Clifton referred to an outline that indicates when surveys will be initiated, stakeholder interviews scheduled and what topics are to be discussed during the next two retreats. City administration is asking for City Council concurrence with the proposed adjusted schedule. Mr. Clifton explained the originally adopted schedule did not include as much time to conduct the stakeholder interviews, surveys, etc. The revised schedule will also allow the stakeholder interviews and surveys to occur in January /February; that information will be presented at the February 28 retreat. He anticipated the revised schedule would result in more upfront citizen input and a more ground -up approach. BCG will present the internal and external scan information at the January retreat as well as discuss how strategic planning integrates into a budgeting for outcomes/budgeting for priorities process. 13. COUNCIL REPORTS ON OUTSIDE COMMITTEE/BOARD MEETINGS Councilmember Petso reported the Lake Ballinger Forum has a project in design but construction funding has not yet been identified. She noted this project will not be a complete solution to flooding on Lake Ballinger. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes November 22, 2011 Page 16 Councilmember Petso reported the Public Facilities District Board adopted board member term limits, eight years and completion of a partial term. She also reported the Sound of Music Sing -along event at Edmonds Center for the Arts is sold out. Councilmember Petso reported a Regional Fire Authority 101 will be presented to the Council in early January to introduce the Council to the process. The Council has a decision point in May 2012 with regard to their commitment to proceeding with the process. Councilmember Buckshnis reported the Economic Development Commission (EDC) discussed membership on the Commission and the upcoming sunset of the Commission. She planned to request an agenda item to extend the EDC and add membership parameters with regard to attendance and requiring an application process. The Commission also discussed the form based code for Five Corners and Westgate and development agreements. Councilmember Fraley- Monillas reported on the Snohomish Health District meeting; in 2011 the District eliminated 8 FTE and now has 160 -170 staff members. The District is facing many of the same issues facing the City, a reduction in grants and uncertain funding. The district is trying to balance the lack of funding with maintaining public health. She commented on the whooping cough outbreak in Snohomish County that affects children the hardest. She reminded everyone in contact with children need to have a whooping cough vaccine. This is the largest outbreak of whooping cough in Snohomish County in 30 years. [EA �\l awe] RUNCO► 1 \%130111K Mayor Cooper reported in February /March, the Council will be provided a draft financial plan and a draft operating plan from the Regional Fire Authority Planning Committee. The Council will be asked to pass a resolution by May adopting the draft financial plan and operating plan. This is a critical checkpoint for the nine participating jurisdictions with regard to whether they want to continue toward a 2013 RFA ballot measure. Mayor Cooper provided a reminder that Saturday, November 26 is Small Business Saturday as well as the tree lighting. In recognition of Saturday's Apple Cup, he declared tomorrow "wear your school colors day" in City Hall. He noted that the school he supports, Lindfield College Wildcats, are ranked fifth in the nation and are in the Division 3 playoffs in Dover, Delaware for a playoff game on Saturday. Mayor Cooper stated he has enjoyed getting to know Councilmembers better during the past 11/2 years. He thanked staff, particularly City Clerk Sandy Chase and Community Services /Economic Development Director Stephen Clifton for their historical knowledge and their help in his early days. 15. COUNCIL COMMENTS Councilmember Bernheim thanked Ms. Hite for the great work she does, managing the Parks Department with limited resources and assisting as Interim Human Resources Director. He gifted the Mayor's Office a No Idle Zone sign, commenting the Mayor's Office has been a no idle zone since Mayor Cooper took office. Councilmember Buckshnis reported People for Puget Sound have two new interns, one with a bachelor of science degree from Lewis and Clark who is very interested in the habitat of saltwater to fresh and will be developing a planting program to remove invasive plants. The second intern, a student at Edmonds Community College, will be collecting baseline data for the restoration. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes November 22, 2011 Page 17 Councilmember Buckshnis expressed her appreciation for the work Mayor Cooper has done, particularly with regard to the City's financials. Councilmember Fraley- Monillas thanked Mayor Cooper and assured he would be missed. Councilmember Petso thanked Mayor Cooper, expressing her appreciation for the opportunity to work with him. Council President Peterson reported he will discuss a public hearing regarding the roundabout with staff. He urged Councilmembers to talk with Public Works Director Phil Williams about the roundabout before the CFP /CIP discussion on December 6. Council President Peterson recognized Mayor Cooper for his leadership with the Climate Protection Committee as well as his many other accomplishments. He relayed that Climate Solutions is in awe at what Mayor Cooper has led the City to do. He assured Edmonds will continue to blaze that trail. 16. ADJOURN With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 9:58 p.m. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes November 22, 2011 Page 18