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03/18/2008 City CouncilMarch 18, 2008 Following a Special Meeting at 6:45 p.m. to interview candidates for appointment to the Planning Board and Architectural Design Board, the Edmonds City Council meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Haakenson in the Council Chambers, 250 5th Avenue North, Edmonds. The meeting was opened with the flag salute. ELECTED OFFICIALS PRESENT Gary Haakenson, Mayor Michael Plunkett, Council President Peggy Pritchard Olson, Councilmember Steve Bernheim, Councilmember D. J. Wilson, Councilmember Deanna Dawson, Councilmember Dave Orvis, Councilmember Ron Wambolt, Councilmember ALSO PRESENT Hilary Scheibert, Student Representative STAFF PRESENT Al Compaan, Police Chief Gerry Gannon, Assistant Police Chief Mark Correira, Assistant Fire Chief Duane Bowman, Development Services Director Brian McIntosh, Parks & Recreation Director Noel Miller, Public Works Director Rob Chave, Planning Manager Dave Gebert, City Engineer Bertrand Hauss, Traffic Engineer Don Fiene, Assistant City Engineer Rich Lindsay, Parks Maintenance Manager Frances Chapin, Cultural Services Manager Renee McRae, Recreation Manager Sandy Chase, City Clerk Jana Spellman, Senior Executive Council Asst. Jeannie Dines, Recorder Addition to 1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Agenda Mayor Haakenson requested an addition to the Consent Agenda as Item Q: "Report on bids opened March 10, 2008, for the purchase of three (3) Harley Davidson police motorcycles, in the amount of $31,650.52." COUNCILMEMBER WAMBOLT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER OLSON, TO APPROVE THE AGENDA IN CONTENT AND ORDER AS AMENDED. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. 2. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS COUNCIL PRESIDENT PLUNKETT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER OLSON, TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. MOTION CARRIED Roll Call UNANIMOUSLY. The agenda items approved are as follows: A. ROLL CALL Approve B. APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF MARCH 4, 2008. 03-04-08 Minutes C. APPROVAL OF CLAIM CHECKS #102704 THROUGH #102868 ISSUED MARCH 6, 2008 Approve IN THE AMOUNT OF $412,628.07, AND #102869 THROUGH #103024 ISSUED MARCH Claim Checks 13, 2008 IN THE AMOUNT OF $532,579.26. APPROVAL OF PAYROLL DIRECT DEPOSITS AND CHECKS #46277 THROUGH #46330 FOR THE PERIOD OF FEBRUARY 16 THROUGH FEBRUARY 29, 2008 IN THE AMOUNT OF $780,870.78. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 18, 2008 Page 1 Claim for CONFIRMATION OF NEWLY APPOINTED MEMBERS TO THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION Preservation COMMISSION AND SISTER CITY COMMISSION. Damages D. ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF CLAIM FOR DAMAGES FROM MARLA HORNE Appointments CONFIRM APPOINTMENT OF JENNIFER ANTTILA TO THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION ($200.00). Surplus E. SURPLUS COMPAQ SERVER AND DONATE TO SNOHOMISH COUNTY Compaq Server EMERGENCY RADIO SYSTEM. Surplus I F. SURPLUS OF COMPUTERS AND MONITORS AND DONATION TO Computers INTERCONNECTION. Use of Marine 16 for LMS G. INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT- USE OF MARINE 16 FOR EMS TRANSPORTS. Transports H. AUTHORIZATION FOR TWO ARTS COMMISSIONERS TO ATTEND THE Arts WASHINGTON CULTURAL CONGRESS, APRIL 28-30, WITH FUNDING Commission Training FOR TRAINING FROM BUDGETED FUNDS IN THE 117-100 FUND. Edmonds L AUTHORIZATION FOR THE MAYOR TO SIGN THE CONTRACT WITH THE Market EDMONDS-SOUTH SNOHOMISH COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY FOR THE Contract EDMONDS MARKET. Arts Festival Contract J. AUTHORIZATION FOR THE MAYOR TO SIGN THE CONTRACT WITH THE EDMONDS ARTS FESTIVAL ASSOCIATION FOR THE 2008 EDMONDS ARTS FESTIVAL. t of y K. AUTHORIZATION FOR THE MAYOR TO SIGN THE CONTRACT WITH THE tract Contract GREATER EDMONDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FOR THE 4TH OF JULY PARADE AND FIREWORKS DISPLAY. Taste of Edmonds L. AUTHORIZATION FOR THE MAYOR TO SIGN THE CONTRACT WITH THE Contract GREATER EDMONDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FOR THE 2008 TASTE OF EDMONDS. Hot Autumn Nites Contract M. AUTHORIZATION FOR THE MAYOR TO SIGN THE CONTRACT WITH THE GREATER EDMONDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FOR HOT AUTUMN NITES. Lift Stations 7 N. AUTHORIZATION TO CALL FOR BIDS FOR THE LIFT STATIONS 7 & 8 & 8 Replace - ment REPLACEMENT AND REHABILITATION PROJECT. sR99i76th O. AUTHORIZATION FOR MAYOR TO SIGN THE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Ave W Intersection AGREEMENT WITH HDR ENGINEERING, INC. FOR THE SR99/76TH AVENUE WEST INTERSECTION SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT. Ord# 3681 P ORDINANCE NO. 3681 — AMENDING THE PROVISIONS OF ECC 5.05.127.1 ON Spaying or Neutering of SPAYING OR NEUTERING OF ADOPTED DOGS AND CATS, AND AMENDING Adopted Dogs PROVISIONS OF ECC 5.05.127.4 ON PENALTIES FOR FAILURE TO SPAY OR and Cats NEUTER ADOPTED DOGS AND CATS. Purchase Police Q. REPORT ON BIDS OPENED MARCH 10, 2008, FOR THE PURCHASE OF THREE (3) Motorcycles HARLEY DAVIDSON POLICE MOTORCYCLES, IN THE AMOUNT OF $31,650.52. Historic 3. CONFIRMATION OF NEWLY APPOINTED MEMBERS TO THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION Preservation COMMISSION AND SISTER CITY COMMISSION. and Sister City Commission COUNCIL PRESIDENT PLUNKETT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER ORVIS, TO Appointments CONFIRM APPOINTMENT OF JENNIFER ANTTILA TO THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION AND KERRY ST. CLAIR, BETH FUHRIMAN, AND ERIC RADCLIFFE TO THE SISTER CITY COMMISSION. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 18, 2008 Page 2 2008-2014 4. PUBLIC HEARING ON THE 2008-2014 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM. Capital Improvement Program Assistant City Engineer Don Fiene presented the 2008-2014 Capital Improvement Program (CIP), explaining the CIP was a long range planning tool, a spending blueprint that outlined capital improvements given available resources. Most of the capital improvements in each fund were derived from the Comprehensive Plan. He noted the Comprehensive Plan process includes input from staff, the public and consultants as well as a scientific analysis and prioritization of projects. Projects include physical improvements or replacement of City -owned infrastructure, development of new facilities and is an ongoing process as needs, public support and priorities change. Mr. Fiene advised the CIP was updated annually as required by GMA via input from six City departments: Public Works, Community Services, Engineering, Administrative Services, Wastewater Treatment, and Parks & Recreation. He provided a summary list of the funds, advising the spreadsheets contained a detailed list of projects, revenues and cash balances, transfers in, grants, and balance for each fund. Project descriptions for each project would soon be available on the City's website that identified the name of the project, the estimated cost, description, benefit/rationale, schedule, and cost. He displayed and reviewed a sample project description for the Interurban Trail. Fund 112 (Transportation) and Fund 125 (REET-2 Transportation) Mr. Fiene explained these funds finance a wide variety of transportation projects including street overlays, road improvements/widening, traffic signals, road stabilization, traffic calming, bikeways and walkways. He reviewed sample projects including citywide overlays and a future walkway project. Funding for transportation capital has improved from two years ago due to the Council's allocation of REET-2 funds over $750,000 for transportation beginning in 2006. However, there was a loss of $75,000 in Motor Vehicle Fuel Tax in 2006, $150,000 in 2007 and $150,000 in 2008 to operating funds. He noted if the Olympic View franchise fees were allocated to the General Fund rather than transportation capital, those funds could assist with overlaying Olympic View Area streets. New legislation allowing Transportation Benefit Districts could bring in additional transportation funds. Fund 113 (Multimodal Transportation) Mr. Fiene explained this funds the Edmonds Crossing multimodal transportation project that would link ferry, bus, pedestrian, bicycle, ridesharing and trains at the Pt. Edwards site. Fund 116 Building Maintenance) Mr. Fiene explained the sole purpose of this fund was to maintain buildings owned by the City. Sample projects include the senior center, City Hall, Frances Anderson Center and other City buildings. He advised Fund 116 was entirely financed by the General Fund which had been impacted by I-747 and I- 695; therefore, grants are necessary for most projects. Funding was currently budgeted through 2008; funding through 2010 and beyond was a concern as lack of funding could defer building maintenance. Fund 125 (REET 2 Parks Improvement) and 132 (Park Construction -Grant Funding) Mr. Fine advised these funded improvements of existing parks, development of new parks, beautification, streetscape, library, trails, environmental protection/education, cultural arts improvements, pool improvements, sports field improvements and waterfront improvements. Sample projects include Yost Pool, 4th Avenue Cultural Corridor, an additional skate park and improvements to Marina Beach Park. Fund 126 (Parks Acquisition) This funds land acquisition as well as debt service on City Hall, library roof, and Marina Beach which totals approximately $700,000 per year, approximately half the incoming funds. Sample projects include waterfront property acquisition. Grants and outside funding are needed to assist with purchases. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 18, 2008 Page 3 Fund 129 (Special Projects - Economic Development This fund was established to visually brand the area between 224th St. & 238th St. as the SR 99 Edmonds International District. This would include installing decorative street lighting, installing way -finding street signs, traffic safety improvements, enhance bus stops and construct streetscape/gateway elements. Combined 412 Funds (Water, Storm and Sewer) Mr. Fiene explained a rate study was conducted in 2005 and new study is planned for 2008. Minor increases are expected over the next several years. Fund 412-100 (Water) Projects in this fund were identified in the approved 2002 Water Comprehensive Pian which will be updated in 2008. The priorities are to improve fireflow, replace deteriorated pipes, replace 1% of City pipes per year, and storage and control improvements. Sample projects include water line replacement/ improvements in the Perrinville area in association with the Olympic View Drive improvements. Fund 412-200 (Storm) Projects in this fund were identified in the 2003 Stormwater Comprehensive Plan; projects address capacity problems, maintenance problems and environmental concerns. Sample storm projects include the emergency North Stream project and the southwest Edmonds basin projects. He noted there were virtually no drainage systems when the southwest Edmonds area annexed and approximately 3,000 feet of drainage pipe /infiltration systems have been constructed in that area, primarily designed in-house and constructed by Public Works crews. A large infiltration project is planned this year at the old Woodway Elementary School site and a 1500 lineal foot storm project is under construction by Public Works crews. Fund 412-300 (Sewer) Projects were identified in the 2006 Comprehensive; priorities include maintenance issues, environmental issues and capacity problems. He displayed examples of sewer projects including the rehabilitation/replacement of Lift Stations 7 & 8 and the 7th Avenue North sewer main line project. Fund 414 (Wastewater Treatment Plant This funds the replacement of worn machinery/equipment and controls in the wastewater treatment plant including flow meters, outfall lines, and influent trunk lines. He displayed a sample project of the bar screen replacement. Mr. Fiene summarized the transportation capital funding was much improved. Fund 116 continues to rely heavily on grants to meet project needs. The Public Works Director's proposal to draw additional funds from the General Fund in years 2010-2013 will assist if approved by the City Council. Other funds appear to be meeting minimum needs. Mr. Fiene relayed concerns raised at the Planning Board and staff's response: • Transfer of $917,500 shown going into Fund 116 from Fund 126 was not reflected correctly on Fund 126 spreadsheet. This has been corrected and will be reflected as an expenditure in the 126 Fund on the spreadsheet for the final CIP. • Check to see if REET transfer projections are too high. Staff checked the numbers from 2007 with the Finance Department and the estimates appear good. • With the RTID vote failure, are the projections for Fund 113 accurate? The Community Services Director relayed that the projections are current and have been adjusted. • Request that Fund 116 problems be highlighted. Staff highlighted local funding problems and necessity of grants and problems that would occur if maintenance is deferred. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 18, 2008 Page 4 • Reflect grant funding secured for the Olympic View Drive & 76th Ave W. emergency project. This has been reflected in the CIP. • The Planning Board expressed support for Transportation Benefit Districts. • Concern that there is no capital fund for the Edmonds fiber network project. The Administrative Services Director is working on the CIP for this fund and the CIP will be amended to reflect the fiber optic program later this year when relevant studies and details are completed. Staff recommends and encourages comments and feedback from. Council and the public at the public hearing and recommends the Council direct the City Attorney to draft an ordinance adopting the updated Capital Facilities Plan. Mayor Haakenson relayed Councilmember Wilson's question regarding the Senior Center Parking lot improvements. Parks & Recreation Director Brian McIntosh advised the senior center parking lot was funded via a combination of funding sources, half from Fund 125 and hopefully half from a CDBG grant. Councilmember Orvis asked whether the revenue from the sale of land associated with the PRD on 80th was reflected in the CIP. Mr. Fiene answered the revenue from land was not reflected in the CIP. Councilmember Orvis observed the CIP could be adjusted when that revenue was realized. Councilmember Orvis inquired about progress on the Interurban Trail. Mr. Fiene answered progress was slow; a quiet title action was required for a portion of the property. Mr. McIntosh advised the April 15 Council agenda would include a resolution to allow the Parks & Recreation Department to apply for an RCO (formerly IAC) grant for $450,000. Receipt of that grant would allow construction on the Interurban Trail to begin September 1, 2009. Councilmember Wambolt asked about funds for overlays. Mr. Fiene referred to the Overlay Citywide in Fund 125 REST 2, advising there was $550,000 in 2008 and $400,000 in 2009. He noted the only overlays in Fund 112 were utility fund overlays. Councilmember Wambolt commented funding may be problematic if it relied on REST. Mr. Fiene answered in his discussions with the Finance Department this week, REST revenues were currently looking good. Councilmember Wambolt pointed out his discussion with Administrative Services Director Dan Clements indicated REET revenues were projected to be only $800,000 in 2008. Mr. Fiene noted REET revenues for 2007 totaled $1.4 million, including fairly good revenues for the last half of 2007. Councilmember Wambolt recommended staff confirm those projections. Councilmember Wambolt commented grants were being sought for a number of projects and assumed if the grants were not obtained, the project would not proceed. Mr. Fiene agreed. Councilmember Dawson requested the Council be provided an update on REET revenues, suggesting a monthly update. Although the Edmonds market was stronger that some other areas, the market was down countywide. Next, she commented although the presentation was informative, it would have been more helpful to have had the project descriptions in the Council packet or available on the City's website as it was difficult for the Council or the public to comment on the CIP when the project descriptions were not available for review. Mr. Fiene noted that information was provided in the Council packet in past years, the goal this year was to have the CIP paperless. He anticipated the project descriptions would be available on the website soon, once Information Services staff resolved a problem with linking. Councilmember Dawson asked if there was a timing issue associated with approval of the CIP and if not, she suggested delaying adoption of the CIP until the project descriptions were available on the website. Mr. Fiene advised the adoption could be delayed. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 18, 2008 Page 5 Councilmember Wilson observed there was a public education component in Fund 125 and asked what public education was financed via that fund. Mr. McIntosh answered there was nothing specifically identified as education; many of the education programs were in the recreation program such as environmental programs. He noted that most studies and planning included a public education component. Councilmember Wilson referred to the LEER amendment presented to the Community Services/Development Services Committee to create a zone that would allow a large water tank for the new PCC store to be located closer to the street. He noted a public education component would inform the public about the environmental benefit of the tank. He expressed concern that if no funds were allocated for public education in Fund 125, none would be expended on public education. Mr. McIntosh commented on the requirement for environmental education in the utility fund. Councilmember Wilson suggested the Council deliberate on redevelopment of the senior center at that location prior to allocating funds for improving the parking lot. Mayor Haakenson advised the funds were in the CIP in 2009 and required Council approval to be expended. He suggested retaining the funds in 2009, assuring the parking lot would not be improved if there were plans to redevelop the building. Councilmember Wilson commented those funds could be reallocated. He referred to Fund 412 and $20,000 allocated for a Lake Ballinger study in 2009, suggesting additional funds be allocated to that study in view of the $200,000 in State funds and the request for $200,000 from the federal government. Mr. Fiene commented on the need to do planning first for Lake Ballinger to determine what was needed and the cost; the $20,000 was a placeholder and planning -level estimate. Councilmember Wilson questioned why more was not allocated as a placeholder. Mr. Fiene answered $20,000 was currently allocated for budget reasons. Councilmember Wilson referred to Fund 412-100 and the process of repairing water pipes at a rate of 1% per year. He asked whether that was adequate. Mr. Fiene answered 100 years was the accepted norm for cast iron; steel lines had slightly less life but nearly all the steel lines had been replaced. Councilmember Wambolt inquired about construction costs, specifically the estimated cost for the Frances Anderson Center seismic upgrade of $1.9 million. He recalled the difficulty getting contractors to bid on projects in the past and asked how the current downturn had affected the bidding climate. Public Works Director Noel Miller commented the City was going out to bid on two lift stations and would know more in a few weeks. He noted the Frances Anderson. Center seismic upgrades were underway. There was only one bid received for that project but it was a good bid and the project was approximately half complete. Council President Plunkett asked whether the public had access to all the materials the Council had in their packet. Mr. Fiene advised the CIP was available via the City Council's agenda on the website. Councilmember Dawson clarified the project descriptions were not available to the Council or the public and she preferred they be available for review prior to the Council's adoption of the CIP. Mayor Haakenson opened the public participation portion of the public hearing. Al Rutledge, Edmonds, observed a Planning Board Member was present in the audience tonight and suggested a Councilmember attend Planning Board meetings. He noted there was a lengthy presentation and questions/answers at the Planning Board public hearing. Lora Petso, Edmonds, urged the Council not to adopt the CIP, commenting the City was allowed to amend the Comprehensive Plan once a year so that all amendments were considered together; the only exception was the CIP in connection with the budget. She opined the CIP was not legal as it did not implement the Comprehensive Plan with regard to playfields. She noted the CIP needed to include parks, identify the location of proposed facilities and planned acquisitions which it did not. She noted the City's Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 18, 2008 Page 6 need for playfields, citing an unauthorized practice on a softball field near her home and the danger of an adult softball team playing at Westgate Elementary fields. She referred to Fund 126, observing the presentation indicated nearly $1 million would be moved to the Building Maintenance Fund. She objected to this transfer absent any additional information. She referred to use of Fund 126 for debt service and discrepancies in the projections for R.EET receipts in 2008. She noted Fund 126 also included line items for unspecified expenditures other than playfield acquisition, questioning whether this explanation was adequate. Ms. Petso requested a line item for fields at the Old Woodway Elementary School and a line item for fields at the former Safeway property. She echoed Councilmember Dawson's concern that the project details were not yet available. She also questioned the location of the skate park that was referred to during the CIP presentation. Jim Young, Edmonds, Planning Board Member, recalled there had been several robust discussions by the Planning Board regarding the CIP in the past few years and hoped there would be equally robust discussions by the City Council. He complimented staff for developing the CIP. He made the following observations as a result of the Planning Board's review of the CIP: 1) he complimented the Council on the corrective action and collaboration between Parks & Recreation and Public Works Departments to fund overlays, noting the funding increased the overlay cycle from 60 years to 33 years, 2) he expressed concern with continued reliance on grants, noting the Federal Highway Administration grant fund was expected to begin showing a deficit in 2009, and 3) he expressed concern with the term, "deferred maintenance," noting maintenance would need to be deferred absent a change in how building maintenance was funded. He urged the Council to discuss building maintenance and if funding could not be identified, prioritize what maintenance would be deferred. Hearing no further public comment, Mayor Haakenson closed the public participation portion of the public hearing. Councilmember Bernheim asked about the process for amending the CIP. Mr. Fiene answered the CIP was a blueprint for budgeting; the budget actually allocated funds to projects. Councilmember Bernheim asked how binding the CIP was on the budget and whether the Council had the ability to amend the CIP to include other projects. Mr. Fiene answered funds were budgeted for projects contained in the CIP other than emergency projects. Councilmember Bernheim asked whether the Council was precluded from allocating funds to projects that were not contained in the CIP. Mr. Fiene answered no. Council President Plunkett inquired about the impact of extending the opportunity for public comment. Mr. Fiene answered that would be acceptable. Councilmember Wilson suggested he and other Councilmembers submit their comments in writing. Councilmember Dawson asked whether staff's recommendation was to direct the City Attorney to prepare an ordinance that would be adopted as part of the annual Comprehensive Plan update. Mr. Fiene answered the CIP was listed in the Comprehensive Plan. The process of adopting the CIP via ordinance at approximately this time each year had been done for several years. City Engineer Dave Gebert explained the Six Year CIP was adopted at this time each year so that it was available when budget preparation began this summer. He noted the annual Comprehensive Plan amendments incorporated the amended CIP. Councilmember Dawson suggested a work session prior to the CIP public hearing in the future to ensure all the information was available. Council President Plunkett requested staff respond to the questions raised tonight by the audience and the Council at the continued public hearing. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 18, 2008 Page 7 Councilmember Wambolt echoed Councilmember Dawson's request for an update on the REST, suggesting that be provided prior to the continued public hearing. Mayor Haakenson suggested that information be provided at the next Council Committee meetings. Council President Plunkett advised the public hearing would be continued to the April 15 Council meeting. 5. AUDIENCE COMMENTS Kiwanis Club Food Drive Al Rutledge, Edmonds, thanked the public for their generous donations to the Kiwanis March 14-16 Food Drive at Top Foods. He announced the Parks & Recreation Department Easter Egg Hunt on Easter ntrFgg Saturday, March 22, advising further inforination was available by contacting the Parks & Recreation Department. Aquatic Dr. Cathy Washington, Edmonds, commented on the allocation of $25,000 for a pool feasibility study. Center She recognized the importance of the development of walkways and bike paths, commenting the City already had sidewalks, a boardwalk and bike routes designated throughout the City. Observing that a significant number of voting citizens who were unable to walk or bike due to age, physical challenges or because they did not want to walk/bike in the rain, she pointed out they could be served by an aquatic center. She emphasized an aquatic center could serve all citizens, from womb to tomb. Dr. Washington noted recent Fire Department dispatches indicated 20% of aid responses were to evaluate patients for falls and referred to a recent newspaper article regarding fall prevention that recommended a regular exercise program. She referred to her proposal for a cultural and recreational center, the Edmonds Aquatic and Artist Center, which had tremendous economic and health benefits. She recalled pool feasibility studies were conducted in 1995 and in 1999 and subsequent unsuccessful efforts to collaborate with Stevens Hospital and the YMCA. She referred to hundreds of signatures the Citizen Action Committee had gathered in favor of an aquatics center, questioning why the City was planning another feasibility study when the voters supported an aquatic center. Dr. Washington encouraged the City to utilize the funds allocated for a feasibility study to identify a site and begin developing architectural plans for an aquatic and artist facility. CIP Process Lora Petso, Edmonds, encouraged the Council to investigate whether adopting the CIP at this stage was an accurate process. She recalled if a project was not included in the CIP, it was impossible to obtain a grant for the project. She envisioned park acquisition for playfield use was a virtually automatic grant if REET it was included in the CIP. With regard to REST revenue, she noted Fund 126 anticipated revenue of Revenue $1.4 million this year and only $1.1 million in subsequent years. She questioned whether the REST revenue in Fund 126 matched Fund 125. She relayed a concern with the size of athletic fields cited in the Park Plan for 6-14 years olds, noting the difference in size between 6 and 14 year olds. She urged the Council to reject that type of planning and plan the number of fields that were needed. Skippers site Roger Hertrich, Edmonds, referred to Bob Gregg's demonstration regarding the Skipper's site, noting it raised many questions such as his indication that he had rights to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) parking lot adjacent to the Skippers site. Mr. Hertrich relayed his conversation with the WSDOT legal department who advised the only relationship WSDOT had with regard to parking lots was with Diamond Parking. He suggested Mr. Gregg provide clarification. Next he referred to the Parks, Parks, Recreation and Open Space Comprehensive Plan, pointing out the minutes of November 28, 2006 Recreation and open and February 13, 2007 Planning Board meetings that contained comments about the Plan were not Space comp included. He referred to circles on one of the maps that identified areas where parks were needed, Plan pointing out there was no circle on the waterfront. Next, he pointed out there was no pool location Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 18, 2008 Page 8 identified in the Plan and the recommendation for action plans was somewhat limited. He suggested the discussion regarding the downtown waterfront area be included in the Plan. Proclamation 6. PROCLAMATION IN HONOR OF EARTH HOUR 8 - 9 P.M. ON SATURDAY MARCH 29 2008. in Honor of Earth Hour Mayor Haakenson advised "Earth Hour" started in 2007 in Sydney, Australia as a way for that city to send a powerful message worldwide regarding global warming. Millions of people and over 2,000 businesses participated. This year, he urged Edmonds to join the effort of cities all over the world to reduce energy consumption and send the message that every action—no matter how small—can impact our environment. He encouraged everyone in Edmonds to turn off their lights for one hour, from 8:00 to 9:00 p.m., on Saturday, March 29. This hour could be used to change energy -wasting light bulbs to energy-efficient ones, have a block party with neighbors, or have a candlelit dinner in a participating local restaurant. Every action has an impact, and the more that could be done to lessen negative effects, the better chance for a brighter future for our planet. Mayor Haakenson read a proclamation declaring 8:00 - 9:00 p.m. March 29 as Earth Hour and urging all citizens to join him, as well as millions of people around the world, in turning out their lights to significantly reduce energy consumption and positively affect the fight against global warming. Resolution of 7• WORK SESSION REGARDING A RESOLUTION OF ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY AND Environ- PRINCIPLES. mental Policy and Principles Councilmember Wilson advised the Community Services/Development Services Committee discussed the policies and principles in the resolution. The intent was to have the Council identify environmental. principles that would be adopted in the building codes, expressed in the Comprehensive Plan and pursued by staff and the City as a corporation. And based on the principles, determine what the goals the Council would like to achieve and ultimately direct staff to dovetail the goals and principles with other initiatives in the City and potentially magnify those efforts. He noted this was important in view of the development potential of the Antique Mall and Skippers properties and the presentations to be made next week by the developers and staff. He envisioned the Council would review and potentially modify the policy and principles for public comment at next week's meeting. The discussion regarding the Antique Mall and Skipper's property would then be framed based on how the public chose to engage in this process. Councilmember Wilson commented if the Council proposed environmental principles and goals and no one commented, he would conclude environmental sensitivity was not a priority for Edmonds citizens. Conversely, if the public provided comment on the policies and principles, he envisioned returning them to the Community Services/Development Services Committee for further review. He urged the Council to affirm a set of environmental principles to inform developers what the City expected with regard to future growth as well as to assist staff with the building code rewrite. He noted the resolution contained sections regarding principles, goals and staff direction. Councilmember Dawson expressed her appreciation to Councilmember Wilson for proposing this to the Council, commenting it was a good discussion for the Council to have. She pointed out the draft document did not address the City's role in the transportation system including Community Transit, Sound Transit and their role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. She referred to an organization, Climate Communities, that Snohomish and King Counties as well as other local jurisdictions were participating in, suggesting the City obtain further information and consider participating in that organization, observing there was a role for local government to play in the national debate. Councilmember Bernheim commented to the extent that the resolution purports to be a comprehensive document about principles, it was difficult for him to comment at this time without further opportunity for Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 18, 2008 Page 9 review. He agreed with Councilmember Dawson's comments regarding the need to address transportation in the document. He asked whether the resolution had been reviewed by the Community Services/Development Services Committee. Councilmember Wilson explained it was reviewed by the Committee last week and because of the upcoming presentations regarding the Antique Mall/Skippers properties, the Committee wanted to provide the Council an opportunity to review and discuss the resolution in a work session to facilitate public comment next week. Councilmember Bernheim expressed support for the resolution, cautioning Councilmember Wilson against presuming that the community was not interested if they failed to comment. He pointed out the number of sustainability groups and efforts reflected the community's interest and commitment. He expressed support for the adoption of green building programs that require builders and buyers to take a longer term viewpoint of property development. He also expressed support for zero -emission transportation efforts. Councilmember Olson commented the reason the resolution was forwarded to the Council was to ensure the policies and principles were part of the discussion regarding the Antique Mall/Skippers redevelopment. She emphasized this was not a finished product; it was intended to begin the discussion. Student Representative Scheibert was happy to see this resolution proposed and that Edmonds was setting the standard. She hoped this would also involve the educational system so that more information regarding environmental issues was disseminated through the schools. Councilmember Wilson acknowledged this was not a perfect document and needed additional insight to be reflective of the community's fundamental principles. He noted the PCC building would be a platinum. building with regarding to environmental standards. He explained there were four levels, bronze, silver, gold and platinum; meeting the platinum standard was very difficult. The Community Services/Development Services Committee learned there were only 18 gold standard buildings in Washington and less than 1,000 platinum buildings worldwide. Edmonds would be one of very few cities of its size to have a platinum building. If another platinum building was constructed on the Antique Mall/Skipper's property, Edmonds would be the only city in the world of its size to have two platinum buildings. This could set the standard for the world for how an urban city could address redevelopment. He explained at the Community Services/Development Services Committee meeting, they learned PCC needed a water tank to collect runoff from the roof which they could not achieve on the site under the current code. There is also a development on Edmonds Way that wants to reuse stonnwater, an issue the City codes do not address. He concluded staff could continue to do a great job addressing challenges as they arose or the City could send a clear message that this mattered to the City. He encouraged the Council to review the resolution and encouraged the public to provide comment. Mayor Haakenson declared a brief recess. Parks, 8. REVIEW OF THE PARKS, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AND Recreation & THE COMMUNITY CULTURAL PLAN. Open Space Comp Plan; Community Parks & Recreation Director Brian McIntosh introduced Park Maintenance Manager Rich Lindsay, Cultural Plan Recreation Manager Renee McRae, Frances Chapin, Cultural Services Manager, and consultant Juliet Fong, Hough Beck & Baird, Inc. He explained the Parks, Recreation & Open Space Comprehensive Plan and Community Cultural Plan updates have been in process since March 2007 and have followed two separate yet connecting paths. The Community Cultural Plan and Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan are independent elements of the City Comprehensive Plan; the Parks & Recreation Department oversees and implements both plans. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 18, 2008 Page 10 Mr. McIntosh explained comprehensive plans educate, set broad goals and objectives, identify needs, set policy, and create action plans to assist in guiding staff and the community, and allow department projects to be grant eligible. Given the constantly changing landscape of active cities such as Edmonds, this plan provides a general guide and not a blueprint for department and City activity. Budgets, capital improvement plans, cost of materials, labor, and political direction can, do, and will change frequently within this six-year plan. Mr. McIntosh explained separate twenty -person Advisory Committees made up of citizens representing varied interests met regularly from April through December 2006 to review and refine both plans. Those forty residents have been provided regular updates since that time and he expressed appreciation for their dedication of time and intellect over these many months. The members of the Advisory Committees are individuals and citizens who have different recreational, cultural, and life interests and some represent a certain population or organization within the City. It was requested early in the process that whatever their personal interest or affiliation, they take a broader objective in regard to the City's quality of life and interest in building for the future. Two advertised open houses were conducted to receive comment from the public. A professional scientific telephone survey was conducted as well as an opportunity for all to respond to an electronic survey. The advisory committees helped analyze staff, consultant, public, and their own ideas and sentiments to reach consensus on all chapters and phases of this plan. The collective expertise, community knowledge, and survey information identified deficiencies, trends, and universal interests as well as more specialized needs to create the action plan. Two updates were provided to the Planning/Parks Board on November 28 and February 13 that resulted in thoughtful review by Board members. A number of their comments were addressed in subsequent editing of the Parks Plan. A public hearing at the Planning/Parks Board was held on February 27 with the Board recommending that the draft plans be forwarded to City Council for review and a public hearing. Mr. McIntosh highlighted the Department's mission statement in the Executive Summary, "To provide Edmonds' citizens with a balanced system of parks, recreation, open space and cultural services along with their support facilities to ensure quality of life. " He explained the Executive Summary was a new feature in the Plan and provided an overview. He highlighted the economic and health benefits of parks cited in the Executive Summary. Juliet Fong, Hough Beck & Baird, Inc., explained the Executive Summary provided an overview of the plan as well as the vision for the Plan - connectivity, diverse activity and visibility. She noted the last page of the Executive Summary contained more information regarding each of these elements of the vision. She briefly reviewed the content of each chapter: • Chapter I Introduction - sets the framework including a description of the public involvement process and references other planning documents considered during the planning process. • Chapter 2 Community Profile - defines the planning area, natural features, demographic characteristics, land use, cultural resources, and population forecasts. With regard to demographics, she noted the 2000 Census information was used. • Chapter 3 Facility and Program Inventory - defines park categories (neighborhood, community, and regional parks, special use areas, gateways, entrances, beautification areas and cultural facilities) and inventories existing park facilities. • Chapter 4 Community Needs Assessment - defines and identifies the current level of service based on population and a proposed level of service based on what the community process indicated citizens want in the future. She noted previous plans compared the city's level of service to national and state standards; the more common practice today was to determine what Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 18, 2008 Page 11 the community wanted to determine a proposed level of service. She noted this chapter contained the public comments from the stakeholder groups and surveys; it also contained information regarding trends. • Chapter 5 Comprehensive Plan Framework: Goals and Objectives - uses the information including the visionary concepts to determine modifications/additions to the goals and objectives. • Chapter 6 Action Plan - item by item list of general ideas as well as very specific ideas and lists all existing parks and desired maintenance upgrades. • Chapter 7 Funding Plan • Appendixes - contains facility inventory worksheets, community survey results, and park descriptions. Ms. Fong displayed a map identifying existing facilities within the park system including school sites and civic facilities. She displayed the recommended plan facilities map developed via the community process of desired facilities. This map contained circles identifying areas where a neighborhood park was desirable. She noted the Plan recognized the City was an urban community with little available land; one of the strategies in the Plan was to continue partnering with the schools for neighborhood type functions on school sites. She identified proposed neighborhood parks on school sites and a desired location for a community park in the south end of the City. She identified other desirable facilities such as a hand -carry boat launch and a water trail along the waterfront. Ms. Fong displayed the recommended plan connections map, commenting the concept of connections was a dominant feature in the Plan. The intent of the connections map was not to reiterate the transportation plan but to consider how people recreated with regard to walking and bicycling. She explained commuters traveled from point A to point B; recreational walkers or bicyclists prefer a loop. She pointed out loops identified on the map, noting some may have existing walkways and sidewalks and some may not be complete. The intent was to identify priorities for the walkway/bikeway plan within the loops as well as potentially mapping them with visual cues on the ground, mileage distances, etc. and use them as a marketing tool to demonstrate to the community the importance of a healthy, active lifestyle. She noted missing sidewalk and bikeway connections/links were also identified on the map. The Plan also discussed safety of these connections. Ms. Fong referred to the comments from the public hearing, many of which reemphasized the priorities expressed in the survey results. She referred to comments regarding an aquatics center/pool/year round facility, noting specifics regarding that planning process were not addressed in the Plan. Other comments included safety of the trails, connections and bikeways; the waterfront area•, and downtown connectivity. The Planning Board also provided comment regarding the need for connection to the transportation plan and public spaces/gathering spaces downtown. Council President Plunkett asked Mr. McIntosh to comment on planning for a pool. Mr. McIntosh advised the need for an aquatics facility/year round pool was identified in the survey. The need for an aquatics center is in the Plan and the CIP. He pointed out $50,000 was allocated in the proposed CIP for a feasibility study and he planned to increase the amount to $60,000 to survey the public regarding what they wanted, how a facility could be marketed, and siting. Council President Plunkett asked what information the feasibility study would provide. Mr. McIntosh replied an aquatic center and a pool could be the same thing or vastly different. Previous studies have ranged from a bubble over the existing pool to an Olympic sized aquatic center with a water park. He noted the pool was at the end of its life and whether it remained in that location as a new covered pool or in another location, how a pool project would be marketed, etc. would be explored in the feasibility study. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 18, 2008 Page 12 Council President Plunkett requested the Planning Board minutes be provided either in the appendixes or at the public hearing. Mr. McIntosh agreed they could be provided at the public hearing. Councilmember Dawson agreed it would be helpful for the Council to see the comments made at the Planning Board public hearing and suggested they be included in the appendixes, noting the comments from the survey were included. Mr. McIntosh noted the telephone survey was the only scientific data; a web survey was also conducted. Councilmember Dawson pointed out the Plan included the web survey information; therefore, it was appropriate to include the comments made at the public hearing. Councilmember Dawson referred to the demographics in the telephone survey and questioned whether there was any effort to obtain a representative sampling. She asked what time the survey was conducted, noting 81% of the respondents were over the age of 50. She recognized Edmonds had an aging population but feared the age of the respondents may skew the results if the majority did not have school age children. Mr. McIntosh advised the survey was conducted at random times during the day including weekends. Councilmember Dawson asked whether there was any attempt to have a representative demographic response to the survey to ensure there was a representative sample of the population. Ms. Fong answered the randomness of the survey was an important aspect in ensuring the survey was as scientifically accurate as possible. The surveyors called randomly until a predetermined number of responses were reached to provide a survey that was statistically accurate to 5%. She acknowledged the responses by citizens age 50 and above was significantly higher. To offset this, the advisory group talked about the survey results and how they affected the decision-making process. She noted the advisory group was a diverse group and represented not only their own interests but the entire community. Councilmember Dawson pointed out a skate park was one of the lowest scoring facilities. She questioned why there was reference in the CIP to another skate park when it did not score high in the survey. She was also surprised how low ballfields scored in the survey, questioning whether that was because most respondents did not have children that utilized fields. She noted the aquatic facility scored very high in the survey. She remarked the feasibility study was not intended to determine whether the community was interested in an aquatic's facility but rather whether it would pencil out with regard to operations as well as where to site a facility. Mr. McIntosh pointed out the feasibility study would also assist in determining what type of facility the community wanted. Councilmember Wilson agreed with Councilmember Dawson's comments regarding the demographics, noting he was involved in polling in his job and while the survey may be random, it was not scientific. He pointed out a survey where 2% of the respondents were age 34 or younger was not representative of the City's demographics and while the results may be enlightening, they did not accurately reflect the community. Councilmember Wilson referred to page 4-5, specifically the statement, "The City of Edmonds should continue to pursue opportunities to acquire waterfront properties and to partner with private owners for public access to the waterfront." Because the term "waterfront" was often used loosely, he questioned whether the intent was actually shoreline property and not the Antique Mall/Skipper's properties. Mr. McIntosh answered it was the shoreline. Councilmember Wilson asked staff to comment on the hand -carry boat launch site. Mr. McIntosh answered although it was desirable, it was difficult to site and the locations identified on the map were not relevant to where such a facility could be located. The survey and advisory groups identified the need for another hand -carry boat launch on the Edmonds waterfront; the closest was in Snohomish County at Lund Gulch Park or at Marina Beach. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 18, 2008 Page 13 Councilmember Wilson referred to the statement on page 4-10, "Existing play areas should be updated to meet current safety standards and provide greater diversity and more imaginative play" and asked which play areas did not meet current safety standards. Mr. McIntosh advised a staff person certified in playground safety inspection addressed any safety issues as they arose. The City had a consistent replacement program; City Park's equipment was next to be replaced. The lifespan of the equipment was 10-18 years and within that time period, safety standards change. He assured the City's playgrounds were safe and possibly the language in the Plan needed to be updated. When play areas were replaced, it was with equipment that meets current safety standards. Councilmember Wilson asked for an example of a play area that was constructed to the standards at the time but was now out of date. He noted if there were any, the City should spend the funds necessary to ensure play areas met current safety standards. If there were not any, the language needed to be revised to avoid suggesting that any existed. Mr. McIntosh assured all the City's playgrounds were safe; the language needed to be updated. Council President Plunkett asked about the comment in the presentation stating there needed to be a larger park in south Edmonds. Ms. Fong responded there was desire expressed for a community park at the old Woodway High School site. She explained a community park was typically larger than a neighborhood park and contained more community -type functions and activities. For example, one of the discussions in the process was where to site a dog park if the current park was displaced by Edmonds Crossing. She noted the national standard for a community park was 20+ acres. Councilmember Bernheim asked if it was permissible to launch a kayak from any public beach. Mr. McIntosh responded it was not allowed in many areas, for example the Underwater Park was a sanctuary and launching a kayak was strictly prohibited. The preferred/designated boat launching site was the south end of Marina Beach. It was not illegal to launch a kayak at the fishing pier but it was not encouraged. Councilmember Bernheim pointed out the respondents to the telephone survey stated they were willing to pay $122 per year for a bond to finance park acquisition. He asked if there was any analysis done with regard to the amount that would generate. Mr. McIntosh answered no. Councilmember Bernheim noted respondents to the telephone survey, 80% of whom owned their homes, also indicated they were willing to pay $100 per year in property taxes to finance property acquisition. He asked if there was any analysis regarding the amount that would generate. Mr. McIntosh answered no, but it could be determined. Councilmember Bernheim commented discussions regarding redevelopment of the Antique Mall area usually included mention of open space, either as a voluntary contribution by the developer, as a zoning requirement, or as a publicly financed area. Observing the Plan did not identify park land in the Antique Mall area, he asked whether the Council could approve a project that proposed useful, developed open space or a park -type area on that site. Mr. McIntosh commented as the Executive Summary stated, the Plan was not a blueprint but rather a general document. He acknowledged opportunities would arise that may not be included in the Plan and the Plan could be revised at the Council's discretion. He recommended any proposed open space/park area be maintained by the property owner. Councilmember Dawson clarified Councilmember Bernheim's comment regarding survey respondents' willingness to pay $122 for a park levy, pointing out in response to the question regarding how to pay for future city recreation programs, the top choice by a huge margin was increased user fees followed by offering reduced programs; increased city tax revenue had a significantly lower response. She concluded this revealed an unwillingness to pay higher taxes for recreational opportunities. She referred to the question regarding the General Obligation Bond which inquired whether respondents would be willing to pay it and the maximum amount their household would be willing to pay, noting the mean amount on. acquisition was $122.50. When the question was regarding operations and acquisition, the amount dropped to $101. She concluded the responses indicated the respondents were not willing to pay for a Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 18, 2008 Page 14 bond measure to operate parks, which was actually the City's greatest need. She pointed out REST funds provided a reliable and steady source for acquiring park property. She noted the survey respondents were not asked to compare joint venture opportunities or entrepreneurial financing opportunities but scored naming rights, sponsorships, etc. much higher than increased taxes. In response to Councilmember Bembeim's concern that not including reference to a park on the Antique Mall site could constrain the Council from approving a redevelopment plan, Councilmember Wambolt pointed out the existing Parks Plan identified a 3-acre park at the old Woodway Elementary Park site, yet the City purchased a 5.5-acre site. Councilmember Wilson recommended the Council not derive from this survey that the community did not support parks. Councilmember Olson inquired about the status of funding for the fields at the old Woodway High School site. Mr. McIntosh advised staff did not seek funding from the legislature this year as there was little chance of funding in this session. Staff is developing plans to submit a request next January. Cultural Services Manager Frances Chapin reviewed the Community Cultural Plan, explained the update of the Cultural Plan included a twenty-person Advisory Committee made up of citizens representing varied interests who considered what had been accomplished, what made Edmonds the kind of community they wanted to live in and what they hoped it would look like in the future. The ideas in the updated Cultural Plan evolved from their input and comments from people who attended the two public meetings held jointly with the Parks Plan. She expressed her appreciation to the members of the public who engaged in this process. Ms. Chapin explained the first Community Cultural Plan for Edmonds was developed in 1994, a public- private collaboration funded by the Arts Commission and the Edmonds Arts Festival Foundation. The main goals and strategies of the existing Plan revealed the City's leadership role, but that the City was not solely responsible for implementation; the essential role of private entities, businesses, non-profits, individuals and other governmental agencies was highlighted throughout the Plan. She noted the Community Cultural Plan worked in concert with the Parks Plan and the Streetscape Plan. The purpose of the Cultural Plan was to identify strategies that would guide the City and community in continued cultural development, support existing and possibly new cultural facilities, integrate cultural planning with other planning efforts citywide, and utilize cultural resources as part of the community's future development. She noted two aspects of these strategies were highlighted in the updated Plan, 1) arts to attract visitors as well as for residents, and 2) the value of participation in cultural activities to the quality of life. She noted residents see cultural arts as an integral part of the community, part of recreation, continued education, and economic development. Ms. Chapin advised the five main goals were similar to the five goals in the original plan and updated in 2001. She referred to a goal in the previous version, "promote the arts as partners in economic development," noting all five goals were interwoven and all five support economic development. Therefore this goal was reformulated to read, "Build Edmonds' identity as a cultural destination." She noted the focus of the strategies under this goal include infrastructure such as the 4th Avenue cultural corridor and the importance of supporting and enhancing a unique cultural events. She advised the other four goals remained much the same as the original plan, 1) encourage effective partnerships to support cultural opportunities and awareness of cultural assets, 2) develop facilities for visual art and enhance facilities for performing arts, 3) increase visibility and access to information about arts and culture and 4) broaden community involvement and participation in a diverse range of cultural activities. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 18, 2008 Page 15 She summarized the Plan focused on strategies that the public identified as most important to further these goals; however, there was room within those strategies and goals for other ideas to emerge. The strategies reflected themes similar to those in the Parks Plan, connectivity, diverse activity, visibility, collaboration throughout the community, connections for activities, connections for physical space, importance of community, and a suggestion that a cultural committee be developed to further promote the community's values. The facilities goal emphasized the importance of supporting existing facilities such as Edmonds Center for the Arts, ArtWorks, and the Rotary pavilion and encourages multi -use and co - located programming while looking at options for expanding opportunities for visual art. The visibility goal stresses the value of incorporating art and design elements using the visual to reinforce cultural. identity for the community and visitors. The involvement goal focuses on broadening participation of all ages in diverse activities throughout the City. Ms. Chapin explained in the process of updating the Cultural Plan, the community renewed its commitment to many of the interests first expressed in 1994 and recognized much had changed and been accomplished in the intervening 14 years. The updated plan incorporates new and reformulated strategies that build on previous visions and new realities for the future of arts in Edmonds. Councilmember Dawson inquired about the order that Councilmembers were listed in the acknowledgements. Ms. Chapin answered it was random but would be corrected to list Councilmembers alphabetically with the Council President first. Council President Plunkett advised a public hearing on the Plan was scheduled for April 15. Adopt -a -Dog Program 9. DISCUSSION AND POTENTIAL ACTION REGARDING EDMONDS CITY COUNCIL TRIAL ADOPT -A -DOG PROGRAM. Council President Plunkett referred to the indemnification agreement between the City and Old Dog Haven in Exhibit 1, suggesting no more than two dogs be introduced per month and a ten minute time limit. Councilmember Wambolt advised he would not support this program, noting although it was a worthy cause, he was concerned with setting a precedent. Observing Old Dog Haven was located in Arlington, Councilmember Wilson asked whether there were any local facilities. Council President Plunkett advised the dogs were often obtained locally and he was not aware of any Edmonds -based facilities. Mayor Haakenson advised Adix was the City's purveyor of animal shelter services and they had no problem adopting dogs. In the interest of fairness, Councilmember Wilson suggested also including cats. Councilmember Dawson preferred to display pictures of available dogs on Channel 21 or on the City's website or to introduce pets available for adoption during audience comments. She agreed with Councilmember Wilson that cats should be included, noting it was often more difficult to find homes for cats. However, she indicated she was not opposed to a trial adopt -a -dog program. Council President Plunkett stated his intent was to try the Adopt -a -Dog program once every few months. COUNCIL PRESIDENT PLUNKETT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER BERNHEIM, TO ACCEPT THE AGREEMENT. UPON ROLL CALL, MOTION CARRIED (5-2), COUNCIL PRESIDENT PLUNKETT AND COUNCILMEMBERS OLSON, DAWSON, BERNHEIM, AND ORVIS IN FAVOR; AND COUNCILMEMBERS WAMBOLT AND WILSON OPPOSED. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 18, 2008 Page 16 Audio Tape 1 10. DISCUSSION AND POTENTIAL DIRECTION REGARDING AUDIO TAPE RECORDING OF Recording of Executive EXECUTIVE SESSIONS. Sessions Council President Plunkett explained before City Attorney Scott Snyder spent more time researching this issue, he wanted to ensure the Council was interested in pursing it. Councilmember Orvis expressed support for taping of Executive Session, recognizing there were details that needed to be worked out. He noted there were other City Councils that taped their Executive Sessions. He pointed out that although SB 3292 was not approved by the legislature, there were Councilmembers who favored taping of Executive Sessions. Councilmember Dawson supported having Mr. Snyder provide the Council a briefing on the feasibility of enacting local regulations regarding taping Executive Session versus State regulations. She noted it was more complicated to accomplish city -by -city and she wanted to hear Mr. Snyder's opinion before a great deal of time was expended on research. She noted if it could not be accomplished in a manner that created an exemption from the Open Public Records Act, the Council may as well not hold Executive Session in the future. She noted there were many actions that did not need to be done in Executive Session and could be done in open session. It was the consensus of the Council to have Mr. Snyder brief the Council. 11. REPORT ON CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE MEETINGS OF MARCH 11, 2008. Community/ Community Services/Development Services Committee Development ServicesrvicesCouncilmember Wilson reported the Committee discussed the PCC platinum building and supported the Services Committee creation of an interim zoning ordinance that would create a special zone that would allow PCC to meet the LEED development standard. He advised the interim ordinance would require a public hearing and ultimately consideration of a permit. The Committee also reviewed the resolution regarding environmental policies and principles which was discussed on tonight's agenda. The final item the Committee discussed was a request for a bench near the Veteran's Memorial; staff was directed to pursue locating a memorial bench at the Edmonds Cemetery. Finance Finance Committee C°nunittee Councilmember Orvis reported the Committee authorized surplusing of computer equipment which was approved on the Consent Agenda. The Committee also discussed the City's employee medical coverage due to the Association of Washington Cities' plan to phase out their existing medical plans, which will require renegotiating medical coverage with the City's unions. This effort would also include consideration of self-funded plans. The Committee requested staff bring back a proposed work plan with timelines to the Committee by the June meeting. Public Safety Public Safety Committee Committee Councilmember Bernheim reported the Committee discussed an agreement with the City of Everett for use of the City's emergency fire boat at Hat Island. This was approved on the Consent Agenda. The Committee also discussed an exemption that would allow a person adopting a dog or cat to take the animal home without it being spayed/neutered with an agreement they return for spay/neuter under penalty of a fine. He encouraged the public to spay/neuter as well as license their pets. 12. MAYOR'S COMMENTS Mayor Haakenson had no report. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 18, 2008 Page 17 13. COUNCIL COMMENTS Excused I COUNCILMEMBER WAMBOLT MOVED, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER ORVIS, TO Absence EXCUSE COUNCILMEMBER DAWSON FROM THE MARCH 4, 2008 COUNCIL MEETING. MOTION CARRIED (6-0-1), COUNCILMEMBER DAWSON ABSTAINED. 14. ADJOURN With no further business, the Council meeting was adjourned at 10:10 p.m. Edmonds City Council Approved Minutes March 18, 2008 Page 18