HomeMy WebLinkAboutR-1998-112 Local Watershed Plan; Tri-County Water Resource Agency•
RESOLUTION NO. R-98-112
A RESOLUTION authorizing and directing the City Manager and the City Clerk to execute
an intergovernmental agreement with Benton County, Kittitas County,
Yakima County, City of Ellensburg, Roza Irrigation District, Sunnyside
Valley Irrigation District, and Yakima-Tieton Irrigation District for the
purposes of administering the development of a local watershed plan for
the Yakima River basin through the Tri -County Water Resource Agency.
WHEREAS, water resource planning in Washington State has been and continues to be
the responsibility of local counties, cities, water utilities, tribes and the state government; and
WHEREAS, the State of Washington has declared, and Benton County, Kittitas County,
Yakima County, City of Ellensburg, City of Yakima, Roza Irrigation District, Sunnyside Valley
Irrigation District, and Yakima-Tieton Irrigation District recognize, that the proper utilization
of the water resources of this state is necessary for the promotion of public health and economic
well-being of the state and preservation of its natural resources and aesthetic values; and
WHEREAS, said entities recognize that it is in the best interest of the state and the
Yakima River basin that comprehensive water planning be given a high priority so that water
resources and associated values can be utilized and enjoyed today and protected for tomorrow;
and
WHEREAS, comprehensive water resource planning must provide interested parties
with an adequate opportunity to participate, and that water resource issues are best addressed
through cooperation and coordination among said local entities and state government; and
WHEREAS, .utilization and management of the waters of Washington State are guided
by certain general principles, including the use of water for domestic purposes, stock -watering,
industrial uses, commercial activities, agricultural irrigation, hydroelectric power production,
mining, fish and wildlife maintenance and enhancement, recreational activities, thermal power
production, preservation of environmental and aesthetic values, and all other uses compatible
with the enjoyment of the public waters of the state that are beneficial; and
WHEREAS, since water rights are property rights held by individual citizens, irrigation
entities, municipalities, public and private utilities, and governments, said local entities declare
that the Tri -County Water Resource Agency shall have no power or eminent domain authority
to impair (a) any lawful water right or use, (b) the capability of water users to divert, convey, or
exercise those rights, or (c) the continuation of existing land uses dependent on, or benefited
by, those water rights and uses.
(Ik)res/tri-countywa ter/Interlocal/pm
WHEREAS, said local entities must provide for the participation of a wide range of
water resource interests in the composition of the planning unit for the Yakima River basin,
and it is critical to the success of the planning process that said local entities provide for broad
public participation and education regarding the development and implementation of the local
watershed plan; and
WHEREAS; said local entities should be members of the Tri -County Water Resource
Agency, which they have designated as the Lead Agency for the local watershed planning
process; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that it is in the best interest of the City to
enter into the attached intergovernmental agreement with said local entities, now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF YAKIMA:
The City Manager and the City Clerk are hereby authorized and directed to execute the
attached and incorporated intergovernmental agreement with Benton County, Kittitas County,
Yakima County, City of Ellensburg, Roza Irrigation District, Sunnyside Valley Irrigation
District, and Yakima-Tieton Irrigation District for the purposes of administering the
development of a local watershed plan for the Yakima River basin through the Tri -County
Water Resource Agency.
ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL this 21stday of July
/
yi
ATTEST:
City Clerk
Contract No.
pgry/«;-county wam</incmecal/pm
, 1998.
John Puccinelli, Mayor
INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT
FOR THE
TRI -COUNTY WATER RESOURCE AGENCY
This INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT ("Agreement") is entered into by and
among the initiating governments of Benton County, Kittitas County, Yakima County, City of
Ellensburg, City of Yakima, Roza Irrigation District, Sunnyside Valley Irrigation District,
Yakima-Tieton Irrigation District and, if they accept the invitation, the Yakama Indian Nation
(collectively, the "Initiating Governments") for the purposes of administrating the development
of a local watershed plan under authority of HB 2514 (chapter 90.82 RCW) for the Yakima River
basin in WRIAs 37, 38 and 39; defining the duties and responsibilities of the Agency as lead
agency for the local watershed planning process; directing staff; contracting with consultants;
and authorizing requests for grant funding.
RECITALS AND FINDINGS
WHEREAS, water resource planning has been and continues to be a responsibility of
Washington State, counties, cities, water utilities and tribes.
WHEREAS, the State of Washington has declared, and the Initiating Governments
recognize, that proper utilization of the water resources of this state is necessary for the
promotion of public health and economic well-being of thestate and preservation of its natural
resources and aesthetic values.
WHEREAS, the Initiating Governments recognize that it is in the best interests of the
state and the Yakima River basin that comprehensive water planning be given a high priority so
that water resources and associated values can be utilized and enjoyed today and protected for
tomorrow.
WHEREAS, a Memorandum of Agreement dated May 18, 1998, was signed by the
Initiating Governments setting forth various understandings for funding, initiating and conduct of
the Yakima River Basin Planning Program. The provisions of this Memorandum of Agreement
are herein incorporated by reference. To the extent the Memorandum of Agreement is
inconsistent with this Agreement, the provisions of this Agreement shall govern.
WHEREAS, comprehensive water resource planning must provide interested parties
adequate opportunity to participate, and water resources issues are best addressed thr„ „g1,
cooperation and coordination among the State, Indian Tribes, Local Governments, and interested
parties.
WHEREAS, utilization and management of the waters of this State are guided by certain
general principles, including that uses of water for domestic, stock -watering, industrial,
commercial, agricultural irrigation, hydroelectric power production, mining, fish and wildlife
maintenance and enhancement, recreational, thermal power production, preservation of
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environmental and aesthetic values, and all other uses compatible with the enjoyment of the
public waters of the state are beneficial.
WHEREAS, since water rights are property rights held by individual citizens, irrigation
entities, municipalities, public and private utilities, and governments, the Initiating Governments
declare that the Tri -County Water Resource Agency shall have no power or eminent domain
authority to impair (a) any lawful water right or use; (b) the capability of water users to divert,
convey, or exercise those rights; or (c) the continuation of existing land uses dependent on, or
cf tca by, those water rights and uses.
WHEREAS, to prepare and recommend for approval a local watershed plan under HB
2514, the Initiating Governments shall work in cooperation with the Yakima River Watershed
Council membership, representatives of state and federal agencies, the Confederated Tribes and
Bands of the Yakama Indian Nation, local governments and representatives for agricultural,
fisheries, recreational and environmental interests.
WHEREAS, the Initiating Governments must provide for the participation of a wide
range of water resource interests in the composition of the planning unit for the Yakima River
basin, and it is critical to the success of the planning process that the Initiating Governments
provide for broad public participation and education regarding the development and
implementation of the local watershed plan.
WHEREAS, all Initiating Governments should be members of the Tri -County Water
Resource Agency, which they have designated the Lead Agency for the local watershed planning
process.
WHEREAS, a small portion of Klickitat County is in WRIA 37, Klickitat County
supports the decision to initiate multi-WRIA planning for WRIAs 37, 38 and 39 and designates
the Tri -County Water Resource Agency as lead agency; however Klickitat County will not
participate in the planning process or this agreement, as confirmed in the May 11, 1998 letter
attached to this Agreement as Appendix A.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual agreements, covenants and promises
contained herein, the Initiating Governments agree to the following terms:
1. DEFINITIONS
1.1 "Agency" means the Tri -County Water Resource Agency.
1.2 "Agency Director" means the person hired by the Agency to handic
day-to-day operations, and such person shall be an at -will employee and shall serve at the
pleasure of the Agency.
1.3 "County" or "Counties" means Benton, Kittitas, and Yakima Counties,
individually or collectively.
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1.4 "Initiating Governments" means Benton County, Kittitas County, Yakima
County, City of Ellensburg, City of Yakima, Roza Irrigation District, Sunnyside Valley Irrigation
District, Yakima-Tieton Irrigation District, and, if they accept the invitation to participate in the
planning process as an Initiating Government, the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama
Indian Nation.
1.5 "Lead Agency" means the Tri -County Water Resource Agency. In order
to achieve operational efficiencies and to improve management of the watershed planning
process, the Initiating Governments are accomplishing their duties under HB 2514 through
membership on the Tri -County Water Resource Board. To the extent not prohibited by HB 2514
or the Interlocal Cooperation Act, Chapter 39.34 RCW, the Initiating Governments are also
expanding the duties of the Lead Agency to provide for interim dispute resolution of the planning
process, education of the public, holding public meetings and hearings in all three counties
regarding the planning process, and taking of public testimony and comments on the proposed.
Watershed Plan.
1.6 "Local Governments" means cities, towns, irrigation districts and any
other taxing authority.
1.7 "Planning Costs" means (1) the cost of preparing the studies and plans
relating to the Planning Process; (2) the amounts paid to contractors for work performed under
approved contracts; (3) the costs of legal, engineering, and other professional service relating to
the formation of the Agency, the Planning Process, and resolution of any disputes related thereto;
and (4) other costs reasonably related to the Planning Process initiation, administration, auditing
and general project management.
1.8 "Planning Process" means the Watershed Plan preparation under authority
of HB 2514 (Chapter 247, Laws of 1998), the associated public involvement and education
process, and activities provided for herein.
1.9 "Planning Unit" means the collective representatives of water resource
interests appointed by the Tri -County Water Resource Board to conduct studies and prepare the
Watershed Plan for WRIAs 37, 38 -and 39.
1.10 "State" means the State of Washington and any of its agencies.
1.11 "Tri -County Water Resource Board" means the board of that name
established in Section 6 of this Agreement.
1.12 "Watershed Plan" means the local watershed plan prepared by the
Planning Unit under authority of HB 2514 (Chapter 247, Laws of 1998).
Nation.
1.13 "YIN" means the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Indian
2. DUTIES OF LEAD AGENCY
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As Lead Agency for the Planning Process, the Agency shall:
2.1 Apply for grants from the State for funding the Planning Process;
2.2 Determine the scope of the Planning Process, including existing plans
which may be incorporated and/or updated into the Watershed Plan;
2.3 Designate representatives of a wide range of water resource interests to
serve on the Planning Unit;
2.4 Hold public hearings and/or meetings in all three Counties regarding the
Planning Process and incorporate existing plans into the Watershed Plan;
2.5 Determine how the Planning Unit will be staffed, contract with consultants
and professional services to conduct studies within the scope of the Planning Process, and fund
the activities of the Planning Unit;
2.6 Review and resolve the Planning Unit's disputes regarding interim
decisions on plan development activities;
2.7 Hold public hearings on the Watershed Plan prepared by the Planning
Unit, and provide a report on the public hearings and its recommendation to the County
legislative authorities for the approval process provided in Section 9 of HB 2514.
3. SUPPORT AND FINANCING FOR THE PROJECT
3.1 The Agency is authorized to apply for and accept grants in the name of the
Agency from federal, state, local and private sources. The Agency may utilize existing grant
funds and appropriations in the Agency's accounts for the purposes specified herein.
3.2 The Initiating Governments shall not be obligated to pay any debts of the
Agency or the Planning Unit. These costs shall be funded solely through grants and voluntary
contributions.
3.3 The Agency shall approve annual budgets for its operations. The
Agency's fiscal year shall be July 1 through June 30. The budget for the Agency as expanded by
this Agreement shall be approved prior to June 30, 1998.
3.4 The Agency shall not acquire real property. Any personal prop: r y
acquired for use by the Agency shall be acquired in the name of the Agency and shall be sold or
equally and equitably divided among the Initiating Governments upon the termination of this
Agreement.
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4. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
The Agency Director shall report monthly to each Initiating Government regarding its
activities during the prior period. Reporting may be in writing, or by reporting to the Tri -County
Water Resource Board at their monthly meeting.
5. BOOKS, ACCOUNTS AND PERSONNEL POLICIES
5.1 The Agency shall establish a special fund with the Yakima County
Treasurer to be designated "Operating Fund of the Tri -County Water Resource Agency." All
sums received by the Agency shall be placed in such fund and all sums expended by the Agency
shall be disbursed from such fund. The Yakima County Treasurer shall be the custodian of the
fi.jnd, and the Yakima County Auditor shall keep record of the receipts and disbursements, and
shall draw and the Yakima County Treasurer shall honor and pay all warrants, which shall be
approved before issuance and payment as directed by the Agency. All interest earned on sums
placed in the Agency's fund shall accrue to such fund. Reasonable administrative costs incurred
by Yakima County in the performance of this Section 5.1 shall be paid by the Agency, provided,
the Agency is not obligated to pay any such administrative costs in excess of their fair market
value.
5.2 The Agency shall keep full and complete books of accounts showing the
Planning Costs incurred in connection with the Planning Process. The cost of keeping those
books shall be considered to be a Planning Cost of the Agency. Audits of the books shall be
performed annually by the Washington State Auditor, and the cost of such audit shall be
considered a Planning Cost. More frequent audits, if requested by any Initiating Government,
shall be charged to the Initiating Government making the request.
5.3 The Agency Director and any other supporting staff hired by the Agency
shall become employees of Yakima County and shall be subject to the personnel policies of
Yakima County.
6. TRI -COUNTY WATER RESOURCE BOARD
6.1 There is hereby established a Tri -County Water Resource Board to act in
the name of the Agency for the purpose of (1) entering contracts, engaging personnel and
consultants, and providing the watershed planning identified herein, (2) advising the Initiating
Governments concerning the Planning Process, (3) providing the Initiating Governments the
'opportunity to resolve any disagreements that may arise between or among the Initiating
Governments or the Planning Unit representatives with respect to the Planning Process,
(4) providing a mechanism for reviewing Planning Costs, and (5) for the additional purposes
described in this Agreement.
6.2 The Tri -County Water Resource Board shall consist of one representative
from each Initiating Government appointed by its legislative authority. Each such representative
shall be an elected official or the senior manager/administrator for the Initiating Government he
or she represents and shall have one vote. Each Initiating Government shall also designate an
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official to serve as an alternate with full authority in instances when the primary representative of
such Initiating Government is not available. A quorum of the Tri -County Water Resource Board
shall be five members. The Board shall take action by a majority vote. The Planning Unit's
approval of the Watershed Plan, and the County legislative authorities' approval of the
Watershed Plan, shall be as set forth in HB 2514, as it may be amended from time to time.
6.3 In June of every even numbered year, the Board shall elect a chairman and
vice-chairman to serve two year terms. The chairman, or in his/her absence the vice-chairman,
shall conduct meetings and such other business as authorized by the Board.
6.4 Initiating Governments may withdraw from the Agency and the Board by
providing written notice to the Agency Director or the chairman, or by announcing the
withdrawal at a public meeting of the Board. This Intergovernmental Agreement shall remain
valid and in full force and effect and the Agency shall continue to serve as the Lead Agency for
the watershed planning process despite any such withdrawal. The withdrawal of any Initiating
Government from the Agency and Board shall not affect the Planning Unit's authority to prepare
the watershed plan or the approval process set forth in chapter 90.82 RCW. If the withdrawal of
one or more Initiating Governments at a Board meeting causes the Board to lack a quorum as
defined in paragraph 6.2, the remaining Board members in attendance shall constitute a quorum
for purposes of transacting business at that meeting, but no business may be conducted that was
not listed on the Board's agenda. The Board shall reexamine the quorum requirement in
paragraph 6.2 following the withdrawal of two or more Initiating Governments.
7. AGENCY AND PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
The Agency shall work in cooperation with the YIN, State and Federal agencies, and
Local Governments. Public participation through public hearings and other methods shall be
provided by the Agency as part of its management of the Planning Process.
8. PROTECTION OF EXISTING RIGHTS
The Watershed Plan authorized by HB 2514 and this Agreement shall not contain
any provisions that: (a) are in conflict with existing state statutes, federal laws, or tribal
treaty rights; (b).impair or diminish in any manner any existing water right evidenced by a
claim filed in the water rights claim registry established under chapter 90.14 RCW or a
water right certificate or permit; or (c) violate any other provision of Section 8 of HB 2514.
The Watershed Plan envisioned by this Agreement is intended to have prospective application
only with regard to water right applications, and to serve as a guide for future water resource
allocation and protection decisions for the Yakima River Basin by the Initiating Governments,
State and federal agencies, and other Local Governments in the planning, area.
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9. INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT
This Agreement constitutes an exercise of the Initiating Governments' authority under
Chapter 39.34 RCW, the Interlocal Cooperation Act. Copies of this Agreement and the
resolutions from each Initiating Government authorizing the execution hereto shall be filed with
the county auditor of each County, the State Department of Community, Trade and Economic
Development, the Secretary of State, and the YIN Tribal Council.
10. EFFECTIVE DATE/TERM OF AGREEMENT
10.1 This Agreement shall be effective, and the original Interlocal Agreement
dated November 6, 1995 shall be superseded by this Agreement, immediately upon its execution
by all Initiating Governments.
10.2 This Agreement shall automatically terminate effective at any time the
Agency does not have sufficient funds necessary to meet current Planning Costs, unless the
Initiating Governments each agree to contribute the sufficient funding necessary to meet
Planning Costs for the current fiscal year.
10.3 Unless earlier terminated under Section 10.2 or by written notice from
each of the Initiating Governments, this Agreement shall terminate four years from the date the
Agency receives its first grant funds from the State under HB 2514, if it is not extended by
written agreement approved by each Initiating Government's legislative authority prior to such
date.
11. ADOPTION/AMENDMENT
This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, all of which shall
constitute one Agreement. The execution of one counterpart by any party shall have the same
force and effect, as if that party had signed all other counterparts. This Agreement may be
amended at any regular or special meeting of the Tri -County Water Resource Board with the
unanimous approval of the designated representatives of the Initiating Governments.
Amendments shall be numbered and attached _ to the Agreement and distributed as set forth in
Section 9.
Approved as to form: BENTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ATTEST:
Chairman Date
Member
Clerk of the Board Member
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Approved as to form: KITTITAS COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Approved as to form:
Al 11.ST:
Date
Member
YAIIYIA COUNTY BOARD OF COMNIISSIONERS
Chair
Date
Member
Clerk of the Board Member
ArrEST: CITY OF ELL'ENSBURG
9 �...
ity Clerk Mayor Date
Ai l'EST:
City Clerk
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CITY OF YAKIlVIA
Mayor
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95
Date
Approved as to form:
Approved as to form:
ATTEST:
'KITTITAS COUNTY BOARD OF COM1tiIISSIONERS
Member
YAKLMA COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Chair Date
Member
Clerk of the Board Member
A 11'hST: CITY OF ELLENSBURG
City Clerk
Mayor Date
Al 1'hST: CITY OF YAKIMA
City Clerk Mayor Date
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ROZA IRRIGATION DISTRICT
SUNNYSIDE VALLEY IRRIGATION DISTRICT
YAKIMA-TIETON IRRIGATION DISTRICT
Manager
47247q.
Date
(If invitation accepted)
CONFEDERATED TRIBES AND BANDS
OF THE YAKAMA INDIAN NATION
Chair, Tribal Council Date
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INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT FOR THE TRI -COUNTY WATER RESOURCE AGENCY
Approved as to form: BENTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ZglA)/1
Deputy Prosecuting A torney
Attest:
g/.31?y
erk of e Board of Co / Comnrs.
Approved as to form:
41'
Chairman Date
Chairman Pro tem
Member
KITTITAS COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Chairman
Attest:
Date
Chairman Pro tem
Clerk of the Board of Co. Comnrs. Member
Approved as to form: 1 YAKIMA COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Deputy Prosecuting Attorney
Attest:
Chairman Date
Chairman Pro tem
Clerk of the Board of Co. Comnrs: Member
11 of 12'
Approved as to form: KITTITAS COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ATTEST:
Clerk of the Board
Approved as to form:
Ar[EST:
Chairman Date
Member
Member
YAIQMA COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Q
07.0-98
-98
Date
Clerk of the Board Member
At hST:
City Clerk
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CITY OF ELLENSBURO
Mayor
CITY OF Y
iayor
Yakima City Contract No. 98-80
Yakima City Resolution No. R-98-112
Date
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Date
•
� t El'dt i LE.
BUSINESS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
YAKIMA, WASHINGTON
AGENDA STATEMENT
Item No. 1
For Meeting of July 21, 1998
Consideration of a Resolution Authorizing the Mayor to Execute an
Interlocal Agreement for purposes of undertaking local watershed
planning as authorized by HB 2514 (Chapter 90.82 RCW) for the
Yakima River basin.
SUBMITTED BY: John Klingele, Councilman
Dueane Calvin, Water/Irrigation Manger
CONTACT PERSON/TELEPHONE: Dueane Calvin 576-6480
SUMMARY EXPLANATION:
This Interlocal Agreement involves the Counties of Benton, Yakima and Kittitas, the
Irrigation Districts of Roza, Sunnyside, Yakima-Tieton, the City of Ellensburg, and the City
of Yakima working together toward the creation of a locally developed watershed plan for
the Yakima River Basin.
A copy of the Interlocal Agreement is attached.
This Agreement creates no obligations, other than those specifically provided for in the
enabling legislation HB 2514. Any participant may withdraw from the process at will, and
the agreement does not create any financial obligations for any of the parties thereto.
Resolution X Ordinance _ Contract _ Other (specify) Interlocal Agreement
Funding Source N/A
APPROVED FOR SUBMITTAL _ " �s
City Manager
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Adopt the Resolution
illCOUNCIL ACTION:
SECOND AMENDED
INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT
FOR THE
TRI -COUNTY WATER RESOURCE AGENCY
This INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT ("Agreement") is entered into by and
among the initiating governments of Benton County, Kittitas County, Yakima County, City of
Ellensburg, City of Yakima, Roza Irrigation District, Sunnyside Valley Irrigation District, Yakima-
Tieton Irrigation District, and the Yakama Indian Nation (collectively, the "Initiating Governments")
for the purposes of administrating the development of a local watershed plan under authority of HB
2514 (Chapter 90.82 RCW) for the Yakima River basin in WRIA's 37, 38 and 39, defining the duties
and responsibilities of the Agency as lead agency for the localwatershed planning process; directing
staff; contracting with consultants; and authorizing requests for grant funding
RECITALS AND FINDINGS
WHEREAS, water resource planning has been and continues to be a responsibility of
Washington State, counties, cities, water utilities and tribes.
WHEREAS, the State of Washington has declared, and the Initiating Governments recognize,
that proper utilization of the water resources of this state is necessary for the promotion of public
health and economic well-being of the state and preservation of its natural resources and aesthetic
values.
WHEREAS, the Initiating Governments recognize that it is in the best interests of the state
and the Yakima River basin that comprehensive water planning be given a high priority so that water
resources and associated values can be utilized and enjoyed today and protected for tomorrow.
WHEREAS, the Yakima River Basin Planning Program for WRIA's 37, 38 and 39, was
initiated pursuant to RCW 90.82.060 by the Initiating Governments, by the Memorandum of
Agreement dated May 18, 1998, which is attached hereto as Appendix 1. The provisions of this
Memorandum of Agreement are herein incorporated by reference. The Initiating Governments as of
December 15, 1998 also adopted an Operational Agreement, the terms of which are incorporated
herein by reference. To the extent the Memorandum of Agreement or Operational Agreement is
inconsistent with this Second Amended Intergovernmental Agreement, the provision of this
Agreement shall govern.
WHEREAS, comprehensive water resource planning must provide interested parties adequate
opportunity to participate, and water resources issues are best addressed through cooperation and
coordination among the State, Indian Tribes, Local Governments, and all interested parties.
TCWRA Intergvmt Agm
and including amendments 12/23/98
Page 1
WHEREAS, utilization and management of the waters of this State are guided by certain
general principles, including that uses of water for domestic, stock -watering, industrial, commercial,
agricultural irrigation, hydroelectric power production, mining, fish and wildlife maintenance and
enhancement, recreational, thermal power production, preservation of environmental and aesthetic
values, and all other uses compatible with the enjoyment of the public waters of the state are
beneficial.
WHEREAS, since water rights are property rights held by individual citizens, irrigation
entities, municipalities, public and private utilities, and governments, the Initiating Governments
declare that the Tri -County Water Resource Agency shall have no power or eminent domain authority
to impair (a) any Lawful water right or use; (b) the capability of water users to divert, convey, or
exercise those rights; or (c) the continuation of existing land uses dependent on, or benefited by, those
water rights uses.
WHEREAS, to prepare and recommend for approval a local watershed plan under HB 2514,
the Initiating Governments shall work in cooperation with former membership of the Yakima River
Watershed Council, representatives of state and federal agencies, the Confederated Tribes and Bands
of the Yakama Indian Nation, local governments and representatives for agricultural, fisheries,
recreational and environmental interests.
WHEREAS, the Initiating Governments must provide for the participation of a wide range
of water resource interests in the composition of the planning unit for the Yakima River basin, and
it is critical to the success of the planning process that the Initiating Governments provide for broad
public participation and education regarding the development and implementation of the local
watershed plan.
WHEREAS, all Initiating Governments should be members of the Tri -County Water Resource
Agency, which they have designated the Lead Agency for the local watershed planning process.
WHEREAS, a small portion of Klickitat County is in WRIA 37, Klickitat County supports
the decision to initiate multi-WRIA planning for WRIA's 37, 38 and 39 and designates the Tri -
County Water Resource Agency as lead agency; however, Klickitat County will not participate in the
planning process or this Agreement, as confirmed in the May 11, 1998 letter attached to this
Agreement as Appendix A.
WHEREAS, in an effort to resolve the concerns of the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the
Yakama Indian Nation and to facilitate their involvement and cooperation in the planning process and
this Agreement, on December 15, 1998 the Initiating Governments approved and adopted the
Operational Agreement among Yakima River Watershed Planning Initiating Governments
("Operational Agreement") attached hereto as Appendix 2
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual agreements, covenants and promises
contained herein, the Initiating Governments agree to the following terms:
TCWRA Intergvmt Agm
and including amendments 12/23/98 Page 2
1. DEFINITIONS
1.1
"Agency" means the Tri -County Water Resource Agency. Agency membership
consists of the Initiating Governments. The Agency is the Lead Agency as those
terms are defined below. To this extent, Agency, Initiating Governments and Lead
Agency are common terms for purposes of this Agreement.
1.2 "Agency Director" means the person hired by the Agency to handle its day-to-day
operations, and such person shall be an at -will employee and shall serve at the
pleasure of the Agency.
1.3 "County" or "Counties" means Benton, Kittitas and Yakima Counties, individually or
collectively.
1.4 "Initiating Governments" means those Iocal and tribal governments generally
designated by RCW 90.82.060 for the purposes of initiating watershed planning and
designating a lead agency for such planning. Upon execution of the Second Amended
Intergovernmental Agreement the Initiating Governments are Benton County, Kittitas
County, Yakima County, City of Ellensburg, City of Yakima, Roza Irrigation District,
Sunnyside Valley Irrigation District, Yakima-Tieton Irrigation District and, should
they choose to participate, the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Indian
Nation.
1.5 "Lead Agency" means the organization designated by the Initiating Governments
pursuant to RCW 90.82.060 to serve as the lead agency for the Planning Process,
including the receipt and administration of grant funds and the coordination of staff
support related to watershed planning. For purposes of trhis Agreement the Lead
Agency is the Tri -County Water Resource Agency.
1.6 "Local Governments" means cities, towns, irrigation districts and any other taxing
authority.
1.7 "Planning Costs" means (1) the cost of preparing the studies and plans relating to the
planning process; (2) the amounts paid to contractors for work performed under
approved contracts; (3) the costs of legal, engineering, and other professional service
relating to the formation of the Agency, the planning process and resolution of any
disputes related thereto; and (4) other costs reasonably related to the planning process
initiation, administration, auditing and general project management.
1.8 "Planning Process" means the Watershed Plan preparation under authority of HB2514
(Chapter 247, laws of 1998), the associated public involvement and education
process, and activities provided for herein, as further defined in the Operational
Agreement.
TCWRA Intergvrnt Agm
and including amendments 12/23/98
Page 3
1.9 "Planning Unit" means the collective representatives of water resource interests who,
as an autonomous body under authority of Chapter 90.82 RCW are tasked with the
responsibility to prepare a watershed plan through the consensus process defined
therein, and further outlined in Appendix 3.
1.10 "State" means the State of Washington and any of its agencies.
1.11 "Tri -County Water Resource Board" means the board of that name established in
Section 6 of this Agreement.
1.12 "Watershed Plan" means the local watershed plan prepared by the Planning Unit
under authority of HB 2514 (Chapter 247, Laws of 1998).
1.13 "YIN" means the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Indian Nation.
2. DUTIES OF THE TRI -COUNTY WATER RESOURCE AGENCY
The Agency shall:
2.1 Receive and administer. grants.
2.2 Acting as Initiating Governments, determine the scope of planning to be conducted
and shall consider all existing plans and related planning activities;
2.3 Acting as the Initiating Governments, designate and appoint representatives of a wide
range of water resource interests to serve on the Planning Unit; appointment may be
made throughout the planning process.
2.4 Hold/coordinate upon request of the Planning Unit, public hearings and/or meetings
in all three counties regarding the watershed plan.
2.5 Administer staff, contracts with consultants and other professional services to
facilitate the planning process and fund the activities of the Planning Unit.
2.6 Upon request of the Planning Unit, review and resolve the Planning Unit's disputes
regarding interim decisions on plan development activities.
2.7 Hold public hearings on the Watershed Plan prepared by the Planning Unit, and
provide a report on the public hearings and its recommendation to the County
legislative authorities for the approval process provided in Section 9 of HB2514.
TC WRA Intergvmt Agm
and including amendments 12/23/98 Page 4
3 SUPPORT AND FINANCING FOR THE PROJECT
3.1 The Agency is authorized to apply for and accept grants in the name of the Agency
from federal, state, local and private sources. The Agency may utilize existing grant
funds and appropriations in the Agency's accounts for the purposes specified herein.
3.2 The Initiating Governments shall not be obligated to pay any debts of the Agency or
the Planning Unit. These costs shall be funded solely through grants and voluntary
contributions.
3.3 The Agency shall approve annual budgets for its operations. The Agency's fiscal year
shall be July 1 through June 30. The budget for the Agency as expanded by this
Agreement shall be approved prior to June 30, 1999.
3.4 The Agency shall not acquire real property. Any personal property acquired for use
by the Agency shall be acquired in the name of the Agency and shall be sold or equally
and equitably divided among the Initiating Governments upon the termination of this
Agreement.
4. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
The Agency director shall report monthly to each Initiating Government regarding its
activities during the prior period. Reporting may be in writing, or by reporting to the Tri -
County Water Resource Board at their monthly meeting.
5. BOOKS, ACCOUNTS AND PERSONNEL POLICIES
5.1 The Agency shall establish a special fund with the Yakima'County Treasurer to be
designated "Operating Fund of the Tri -County Water Resource Agency." All sums
received by the Agency shall be placed in such fund and all sums expended by the
Agency shall be disbursed from such fund. The Yakima County Treasurer shall be the
custodian of the fund, and the Yakima County Auditor shall keep record of the
receipts and disbursements, and shall draw and the Yakima County Treasurer shall
honor and pay all warrants, which shall be approved before assurance and payment
as directed by the Agency. All interests earned on sums placed in the Agency's fund
shall accrue to such fund. Reasonable administrative costs incurred by Yakima
County in the performance of this Section 5.1 shall be paid by the Agency, provided,
the Agency is not obligated to pay any such administrative costs in excess of their fair
market value.
5.2 The Agency shall keep full and complete books of accounts showing the planning
costs incurred in connection with the planning process. The cost of keeping those
books shall be considered to be a planning cost of the Agency. Audits of the books
TCWRA Intergvmt Agm
and including amendments 12/23/98
Page 5
shall be performed annually by the Washington State Auditor, and the cost of such
audit shall be considered a planning cost. :More frequent audits, if requested by any
Initiating Government, shall be charged to the Initiating Government making the
request.
5.3 The Agency director and any other supporting staff hired by the Agency shall become
employees of Yakima County and shall be subject to the personnel policies of Yakima
County.
6. TRI -COUNTY WATER RESOURCE BOARD
6.1 There is hereby established a Tri -County Water Resource Board to act as the
governing body for the Agency. All the powers and functions of the Agency shall be
vested in the Board.
6.2 The Tri -County Water Resource Board shall consist of one representative from each
Initiating Government appointed by its legislative authority Each such representative
shall be an elected official or the senior manager/administrator for the Initiating
Government he or she represents and shall have one vote. Each Initiating
Government shall also designate an official to serve as an alternate with full authority
in instances when the primary representative of such Initiating Government is not
available. A quorum of the Tri -County Water Resource Board shall be five members.
The Board shall take action by a majority vote.
6.3 In June of every even numbered year, the Board shall elect a chairman and vice-
chairman to serve two year terms. The chairman, or in his/her absence the vice-
chairman, shall conduct meetings and such other business as authorized by the Board.
6.4 Initiating Governments may withdraw from the Agency and the Board by providing
written notice to the Agency director or the chairman, or by announcing the
withdrawal at a public meeting of the Board. This Intergovernmental Agreement shall
remain valid and in full force and effect and the Agency shall continue to serve as the
lead Agency for the watershed planning process despite any such withdrawal. The
withdrawal of any Initiating Government from the Agency and Board shall not affect
the Planning Unit's authority to prepare the watershed plan or the approval process
set forth in Chapter 90.82 RCW. • If the withdrawal of one or more Initiating
Governments at a Board meeting causes the Board to lack a quorum as defined in
paragraph 6.2, the remaining Board members in attendance shall constitute a quorum
for purposes of transacting business at that meeting, but no business may be
conducted that was not listed on the Board's agenda. The board shall reexamine the
quorum requirement in paragraph 6.2 following the withdrawal of two or more
Initiating Governments.
TCWRA Intergvmt Agm
and including amendments 12/23/98 Page 6
6.5 At the request of any Initiating Government or other local governments, the Board
may represent such governments in water resources activities outside the scope of the
Planning Process under HB 2514. Such activities could include, but are not limited
to, application and administration of grant funds for salmon habitat restoration,
coordinated water system planning and coordination of local government habitat
restoration and species recovery planning for purposes of the Endangered Species
Act.
7 AGENCY AND PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
The Agency shall work in cooperation with the YIN, State and Federal agencies, and Local
Governments. Public participation through public hearings and other methods shall be
provided by the Agency as part of its management of the planning process.
8. PROTECTION OF EXISTING RIGHTS
The Watershed Plan authorized by HB 2514 and this Agreement shall not contain any
provisions that: (a) are in conflict with existing state statutes, federal laws, or tribal treaty
rights; (b) impair or diminish in any manner any existing water right evidenced by a claim
filed in the water rights claim registry established under Chapter 90.14 RCW or a water right
certificate or permit; or (c) violate any other provision of Section 8 or HB 2514. The Watershed
Plan envisioned by this Agreement is intended to have prospective application only with regard to
water right applications, and to serve as a guide for future water resource allocation and protection
decisions for the Yakima River Basin by the Initiating Governments, State and Federal agencies, and
other Local Governments in the planning area.
9. INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT
:y
This Agreement constitutes an exercise of the Initiating Governments' authority under
Chapter 39.34 RCW, the Interlocal Cooperation Act. Copies of this Agreement and the resolutions
from each Initiating Government authorizing the execution hereto shall be filed with the county
auditor of each County, the State Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development,
the Secretary of State and the YIN Tribal Council.
10. EFFECTIVE DATE/TERM OF AGREEMENT
10.1 This Agreement shall be effective, and the original Interlocal Agreement dated
November 7, 1995, and the Intergovernmental Agreement executed on July 9, 1998,
shall be superseded by this Agreement, immediately upon its execution by each of the
Initiating Governments identified in paragraph 1.4.
10.2 This Agreement, automatically terminates effective at any time the Agency does not
have sufficient funds necessary to meet current planning costs, unless the Initiating
TCWRA Intergymt Agm
and including amendments 12/23/98
Page 7
Governments each agree to contribute the sufficient funding necessary to meet
planning costs for the current fiscal year.
10.3 Unless earlier terminated under Section 10.2 or by written notice from each of the
Initiating Governments, this Agreement shall terminate on or before December 31,
2002 if it is not extended by written agreement approved by each Initiating
Government's legislative authority prior to such date.
11. ADOPTION/AMENDMENT
This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, all of which shall constitute
one Agreement. The execution of one counterpart by any party shall have the same force and
effect as if the party had signed all other counterparts. This Agreement may be amended at
any regular or special meeting of the Tri -County Water Resource Board with the unanimous
approval of the designated representatives of the Initiating Governments. Amendments shall
be numbered and attached to the Agreement and distributed as set forth in Section 9.
TCWRA Intergvmt Agm
and including amendments 12/23/98 Page 8
Approved as to form:
ATTEST:
Approved as to form:
ATTEST:
Clerk of the Board
Approved as to form:
ATTEST:
BENTON COUNTY BOARD OF OMMISSIONERS
Chairman
1(414g�
Date
Member
COUNTY BO
OF COMMISSIONERS
Date
Member
M'mber
KITTITAS COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Chairman Date
Member
Clerk of the Board Member
ATTEST: CITY OF ELLENSBURG
City Clerk
Mayor Date
TCWRA Intergvmt Agm
and including amendments 12/23/98 Page 9
ATTEST: CITY OF YAKIMA
City Clerk Mayor
Date
Yakima Contract No. 99-08
ROZA IRRIGATION DISTRICT
Manager Date
SUNNYSIDE IRRIGATION DISTRICT
Manager Date
YAKIMA-TIETON IRRIGATION DISTRICT
Manager Date -
CONFEDERATED TRIBES AND BANDS
OF THE YAKAMA INDIAN NATION
Chair, Tribal Council Date
TCWRA Intergvmt Agm
and including amendments 12/23/98 Page 10
KLICKITAT COUNTY
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
205 S. Cat:macs Avart z. Room 103. M -CF -04, GOLCENDALE WASHINGTON 98620 o FAX 509 773-6779 o votCE 509 773-4612
• L.Axs St�ait�, Dts lcr # 1
JOAN FREY. Dtsnucr #2
RAY THAYER. Drs ucr #3
May 11, 1998
To: Benton County Commissioners
Yakima County Commissioners'
Kittitas County Commissioners
Dear Commissioners:
RECEIVED
MAY 141998
BENTON COUNTY
COMMISSIONERS
Klickitat County supports the multi -Water Resource Inventory Area (WRIA) planning
approach for all areas contained in WRIAs 37, 38 and 39, in accordance with
requirements contained in Engrossed Substitute House Bill (EHSB) 2514. We designate
Tri -County Water Resource Agency as lead agency for this planning effort and authorize
Tri -County to apply for grants to fund the planning effort.
By designating Tri -County as the lead agency, Klickitat County is not obligated to pay
any debts or operating costs of Tri -County or the Yakima :, River Watershed
CounciUPlanning Unit to be established through the watershed planning process. It is our
understanding the planning funding will be provided through state grants. We will also
not be participating in the plarnning process, as it affects only a small portion of our
county.
Sincerely,
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Klickitat County, Washington
Ray Thayer, Chairman
cc: Curt Dreyer, Planning Director
Dana Peck, Resource DeveIoprnent Director
TRI -COUNTY WATER RESOURCE AGENCY
Larson Building. Suite 714
6 South Second Street
Yakima, WA 98901
509-574-2650
Charles J. Klarich, Director
MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT
REGARDING WATERSt1KD PLANNING INITIATION
FOR TkiE YAKIMA RIVER BASIN (WRIAS 37, 38, & 39)
WHEREAS, in November, 1995, the Boards of Commissioners of Benton, Kittitas, -
and Yakima Counties entered into an interlocal agreement for the purpose of
developing a water resource and comprehensive water plan; establishing the Tri -County
Water Resource Agency .(TCWRA); declaring their intent regarding coordinated water
resources, water quantity, .water quality, and water system planning, directing staff,
authorizing requests for grant funding and appropriating funds; and
WHEREAS, in said interlocal agreement, -the Benton, Kittitas and Yakima counties
provide that in the preparation of a comprehensive surface and ground water plan, these
counties and the TCWRA shall work in cooperation with the Yakima River Watershed
Council, which includes representatives of state and federal agencies, the Yakama
Indian Nation, local governments and representatives for agricultural, fisheries,
recreational and environmental interest; and
WHEREAS, 1998 legislation (KB 2514) .amends Chapter 90.82 RCW and provides
authority for watershed planning and directions for the initiation of planning units and
eligibility for grant funds; and
WHEREAS, watershed planning under HB 2514 provides for the representation by a
wide range of water resource interests in the investigation and planning of actions
relating to water quantity. Water quality elements, habitat, and instream flow also may
be considered per the requirements of Section 4, 5, and 6, along with the identification
of projects and activities to protect water resources and improve natural resource
management; and
WHEREAS, watershed planning -for the Yakima River Watershed (WRIAs 37, 38, and
39) under KB 2514 is an extension of past and current planning efforts of the Yakima
River Watershed Council, the Yakima River Basin Water Enhancement Project, the
Council of Governments Water Quality Report, and others, and is a desirable process
for local governments and water utilities in the basin to conduct in cooperation with
each other and other interested parties; and
WHEREAS, HB 2514 authorizes the creation of a planning unit to apply for grant
funding upon the agreement ,of certain government entities in the Yakima. River
Watershed to initiate the'watershed planning process, the designation by such entities of
a lead agency for the planning units, and their direction regarding staffing of the
planning unit for the multi-WRIA Yakima River Watershed; and
WHEREAS, the initiating governments designated by Section 2 of HB 2514 are Benton
County, Yakima County, Kittitas County, Klicldtat County, City of Ellensburg, City of
Yakima, Roza Irrigation District, Yakima Tieton Irrigation District, and the Sunnyside
Valley Irrigation District; and
WHEREAS, .the confederated tribes and bands of the Yakama Indian Nation have been
invited to be one of the Initiating Governments; and
'WHEREAS, the irrigation districts in the initiating governments group recognize the
importance of consulting with other irrigation entities in the three WRIAs;
NOW, THEREFORE, the initiating governments agree as follows:
1. Planning Initiation. Pursuant to Section 2 of HB 2514, the initiating
governments concur that watershed planning should be initiated for the multi-
WRIA area comprised of WRIAs 37 (Lower Yakima), 38 (Naches), and 39
(Lipper Yakima) The Yakama Indian Nation shall be invited to participate as an
initiating government.
2. Initiating Governments Activities.
a. The interlocal agreement creating the TCWRA shall be amended to
include all initiating governments as participants in the agreement, and
each government may appoint a member to the TCWRA Board.
b. The initiating governments designate the TCWRA as the lead agency for
the planning unit and authorize the TCWRA to apply for grants from
federal, state, local, and private sources to fund the planning effort. The
TCWRA may hire its own director and staff to work as directed by the
TCWRA.
c, The composition of the planning unit shall be determined in a manner that
complies with the requirements of HB 2514 and assures that water
resource users' interests and directly involved interest groups at the local
level have the opportunity to give input and direction to the planning
process. Representative orgsni7ations and/or individuals shall be
2
appointed by the initiating governments together with the Yakima River
Watershed Council to constitute the planting .nit.
d. The TCWRA-' may select consultants to prepare a Yakima River
Watershed Plan utilizing any portion of or add items to existing plans.
This will be done in cooperation with the planning unit.
e. The scope of the. planning shall be defined by the initiating governments.
At a minimum, the plan shall include water quantity, per HB 2514,
Section 3. Water quality elements, habitat, and instream flow may also
be considered per the requirements of Sections 4, 5, and 6.
f. Additional representation of state agencies on the planning unit will be
determined by the initiating governments in consultation . with the
Governor's Office. Federal agency representation will also be addressed.
A consensus process shall be the first effort to decision-making of the
initiating governments. If the initiating governments fail to reach a
consensus, the initiating governments may decide by a majority vote.
3. Financial Obligations of Initiating Governments. The initiating governments
shall not be obligated to pay any debts or operating costs of the TCWRA or the
planning unit. These costs shall be funded solely through grants and voluntary
contributions.
g.
4. Plan Preparation. The process adopted by *the initiating governments for plan
preparation shall:
a. Place responsibility with the TCWRA for overall management of the
planning activities, including administrative, strategies, scheduling,
contract services, and reports preparation. Any of the planning efforts
may be contracted to third parties.
b. Provide that interim decisions during the planning process on plan
development activities be reached by a consensus process. If the planning
unit fails to reach consensus, the lead agency may decide the issue by a
majority vote.
c. Provide that the proposed watershed plan approved by the planning unit
shall be referred to the TCWRA for public hearings, and that the
TCWRA shall provide a report on the public hearings and its
recommendation to the county legislative authorities for the approval
process provided in Section 9 of HB2514.
3
d. Planning meeting locations will be rotated equally among the three
WRIAs to insure participation opportunities.
•
5. Duration. This agreement will operate for the duration of the planning period,
which will last no longer than four years from the date state funding is first'
received by the planning unit or the TCWRA subsequent to the date of this
MOA. .
This Memorandum of Agreement has been executed this = day of May,
1998, on one or more originals, by the parties shown below.
714
I "
Benton County
Yakima Coin
-Klickitat County
ty of Yakima
Yakima Tieton Irrigation District
1D -
& mud' e Valley Irrigation District Yakama Indian Nation
Approved as to form:
;(-1
Befit` on County Deputy Prosecutor
4
APPENDIX 2
OPERATIONAL AGREEMENT AMONG
YAKIMA RIVER WATERSHED PLANNING INITIATING GOVERNMENTS
This operational agreement is entered into among the Yakama Indian Nation and Tri -County
Water Resource Agency board representing the other initiating governments (Benton, Kittitas and
Yakima Counties, the Cities of Ellensburg and Yakima, the Yakima-Tieton Irrigation District, the
Sunnyside Valley Irrigation District, and the Roza Irrigation District) for the purposes of
watershed planning under the authority of Chapter 90.82 RCW for WRIA's 37, 38 and 39 of the
Yakima River basin. This agreement outlines the duties and responsibilities of the participating
governments, and the procedures for operation and decision making. The Yakama Indian Nation
(Nation) agrees to participate as an Initiating Government and Planning Unit member under the
following terms.
1) Any estimation of water quantity in the management area shall not be deemed an
admission by the Nation of, or in any other way relate to, a quantification of the
Nation's water rights. Such an estimationsatisfies the requirement of the
Watershed Planning Act to include an estimation of water as part of the water
quantity element of watershed planning.
2) Nothing herein shall be a waiver of tribal sovereign immunity for any litigation.
The Nation reserves any and all rights and defenses that it may otherwise have with
respect to its federally reserved, judicial, statutory, or equitable water rights
pertaining to any other participant in this process, includingl any such participant's
claim to or allocation of water in the watershed.
3) All parties agree that watershed planning conducted by the Planning Unit and the
resulting plan will not address or include an instream flow component pursuant to
(RCW 90.82.080).
4) There shall be no planning under the watershed planning effort involving either
surface or groundwater rights within the Yakama Reservation. "Reservation" for
the purposes of this agreement shall include land within Indian Country, as defined
in 18 USCS §§ 1151, as well as all other land owned by the Nation or individual
members, plus any other lands set apart by the federal government for the Nation
or any of its members. If elected by the Nation, assessment, estimation, and
planning of federally reserved water rights under this watershed planning
agreement will be conducted and funded exclusively by the Nation, in coordination
with the appropriate federal agencies.
5) The parties agree to collect and use the best possible scientific data and
methodologies and only to use the data in reaching its conclusions in the watershed
Operational Agreement 12/15/98 Page 1
plan. The scientific methods must be commonly accepted by the scientific
community and agreed upon by all parties.
6) All parties agree that discussions, materials produced, proposed agreements and
other efforts in the development of a watershed plan are not to be considered
admissions or decisions of the parties to the extent the information may relate to
issues that arise in legal proceedings; and the parties agree not to offer such
information as, evidence in any proceedings outside the watershed planning efforts
of Ch. 90.82 RCW.
7) All Planning Unit decisions, up to and including approval of the watershed plan,
shall be done by consensus of the governmental members of the Planning Unit.
(Agreed to at 11/19/98 meeting.) Consensus means a unanimous agreement or the
absence of objection.
The Nation shall designate a respresentative for the purpose of determing consent.
The Nation reserves the right to bring the Watershed Plan to the Tribal Council
prior to final plan approval.
8) All parties recognize that the Intergovernmental Agreement of 7/9/98 executed by
the Initiating Governments, amended by the Second Amended Intergovernmental
Agreement defines the responsibilities of the lead agency as to provide staff
support for interim dispute resolution of the planning process, education of the
public, holding public meetings and hearings in all three counties regarding the
planning process, and taking public testimony and comments on the proposed
watershed plan, at the direction of the Planning Unit. The;�greement also outlines
the responsibilities under which watershed planning decisions will be made by the
Planning Unit.
9) Nothing herein'is intended,to create any rights in any party, not a signatory to this
agreement nor shall any such party be deemed to be a third party beneficiary to this
agreement.
10) All parties shall have the right to withdraw from the planning process at any time.
Any withdrawing party shall not be deemed to be a party to any plan or agreement
produced pursuant to Ch. 90.82 RCW and shall not be bound thereby.
Date:
Max Benitz, Jr., Chairman
Operational Agreement 12/15/98 Page 2
Tri -County Water Resource Agency
Appendix - 3 to the
Intergovernmental Agreement
The Planning Unit's Responsibilities
1. Apply for grants under the Watershed Planning Act from the state for funding the process.
2. Refine the scope of work to develop a watershed management plan for the Yakima River
Basin. Consideration shall be given to all existing plans and related planning activities.
3. Recommend to the Tri -County Water Resource Board (Initiating Governments) additional
members for appointment to the Planning Unit.
4. Hold meetings throughout the watershed to insure a wide range of interests participate in
the planning process.
5. Review and recommend activities pertaining to staffing and funding of the Planning Unit.
6. Request the Tri -County Water Resource Board's assistance in resolving disputes
regarding interim decisions on plan development activities, if necessary.
7. Develop and submit a plan to the Counties for adoption within four years of the date the
funding was first received for plan development.
The plan may not be adopted and submitted to the Counties until consensus of participating local,
state, federal and tribal governments and consensus or a majority vote of the non-governmental
members has been obtained. A plan cannot be approved and submitted to the counties and the
state unless there is approval of all governments in the Planning Unit, pursuant to RCW 90.82.
P/U draft appendix 12/23/98
Page 1
TRI -COUNTY WATER RESOURCE AGENCY
402 East Yakima Avenue, Suite 510
Yakima, WA 98901
Phone: 509-574-2650 Fax: 509-5 74-2651
December 30, 1998
Dear Council Members:
Included in your packet is a copy of the Intergovernmental Agreement the City of Yakima has
signed in August of 1998, along with the amendments to the Agreement that are being proposed
Please review the amendments and the appendices.
The amendments:
1) more clearly defines the roles of the Tri -County and the Planning Unit.
2) describes the Planning Unit's responsibilities
3) contains an Operational Agreement explaining activities pertaining to the Yakama
Indian Nation.
4) outlines the duties of the Lead Agency (Tri -County Water Resource Agency).
5) meets all the criteria required by Chapter 90.82 RCW Watershed Planning.
I recommend you instruct your representative on the Tri -County Board to approve the
amendment.
I will attend your January 5, Council meeting to answer any questions you might have.
Sincerely,
Chuck Klarich, % irector
CK. do
MEMORANDUM
TO. MAX GOLLADAY
BETTIE INGHAM
J1M TRULL
JOHN KLINGEI .P
PERRY HUSTON
RICH DIEKER
RON VANGUNDY
FROM, MAX BENTTZ
DATE; DECEMBER 2.1, 1998
RE. OPERATIONS AGREEMENT AND AMENDMENTS TO
INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT.
Please find attached, copies of the proposed amendment to amend the Intergovernmental
Agreement, to be submitted to your full board or council for consideration; this includes
clarification of the Planning Unit's responsibilities as Appendix 3.
Please request that your members consider the changes and bring their decision to the next Board
meeting.
Also, the Operational Aar eernent that was accepted at the Boards meeting of December 15 is
attached.
Pages: 7
Suggested Amendments to TCWRA
Intergovernmental Agreement
PROPOSED
Page 1, fourth Whereas clause would read:
WHEREAS, the Yakima River Basin Planning Program for WRIA's 37, 38 and 39, was
initiated pursuant to RCW 90.82.060 by the Initialing Governments in a Memorandum of
Understanding dated May 18, 1998, 'hiCh is attached hereto as Appendix I _ th
The provisions of this Memorandum of Agreement
are herein incorporated by reference. To the extent the Memorandum of Agreement is
inconsistent with this Agreement, the provisions of this Agreement shall govern.
Page 2 insert new Whereas clause:
WHEREAS, in an effort to resolve the concerns ofthe Confederated Tribes and Bands of
the Yakama Indian nation and to facilitate their involvement and cooperation in the Planning
Process and this Agreement on December 15, 1998 the Initiating Governments approved and
adopted the Operational Agreement among Yakzma River Watershed Planning Initiating
governments ("Operational Agreement') attached hereto as Appendix 2.
Definitions
1 1 "Agency" means the Tri -County Water Resource Agency. Agency membership
consists of the Initialing Governments. The Agency is the Lead Agency as those
terms are defined below. To this extent, Agency, initiating Governments and
Lead Agency are common terms for purposes of this Agreement.
1.4 "Initiating Governments" means those local and tribal governments generally
designated by RCW 90.82.060 for the purposes of initiating watershed planning
and designating a lead agency for such planning. For purposes of the Agreement
the Initiating Governments are Benton C..'ounty, Kittilas County, Yakima County,
City of Ellensburg, City of Yakima, Roza Irrigation District, .Sunnyside Valley
Irrigation District, Yakima-Tieton Irrigation District and, if they accept the
invitation to participate in the planning process as an Initiating Government, the
confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Indian Nation.
1.5 "Lead Agency" means the organization designated by the Initiating Governments
pursuant to RCW 90.82.060 to serve as the lead agency for the Planning Proce ss,
including the receipt and administration of grant funds and the coordination of
staff support related 10 watershed planning. For purposes of this Agreement the
UA Amendments 12/18/9S Page 1
Lead Agency is the Tri -County Water Resource Agency.
1.8 "Planning Process " means the Watershed Plan preparation under authority of
HB2514 (Chapter 247, laws of 1998), the associated public involvementand
education process, and activities provided for herein, as.further defined in the
Operational Agreement
1.9 "Planning Unit" means the Collective representatives of water resource interests
who, as an autonomous body under authcortty of Chapter 90.82 RCW are rased
with the responsibility to prepare a watershed plan through the consensus process
defined therein, cmd further outlined in Appendix 3.
2. Duties of The Tri -County Water Resource Lem./ Agency
The Agency shall:
2.1 pi, )7 f Ir , Receive and achninister grants.
2,2 Acting as Initiating Governments, determine the scope of planning to be
conducted and shall consider all existing plans and related planning; activities;
2.3 Acting as the. Initiating governments, designate caul appoint representatives of
wide range ofwater resource interests to serve on the Planning Unit; appointment
may he made throughout the planning process.
, i.e . i e-
2,4 Hold/coordinate upon requst of the Planning Clint, public hearings and/or
meetings in all three counties regarding the watershed plan. pl-zrrning-pracess-in
2.5 Administer staff contracts with consultants and other professional services to
facilitate the planning process and
Unit. iii LV7LjuZ (.LILLJrI PV1LfL LPdG 1 £WZT11i g Unit;
fund the activities of the Planning
upon request ,f the Planning Unit, review and resolve (the Planning Unit's)
disputes regarding interim decisions on plan development activities.
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As Lead Agency for the Planning Process, the Agency shall:
2.1 Apply for grants from the State for funding the Planning Process;
2.2 Determine the scope of the Planning Process, including existing plans
which may be incorporated -and/or -updated into the Watershed Plan;._ ._ - _ _.
2.3 Designate representatives of a wide range of water resource interests to
serve on the Planning Unit;
2.4 Hold public hearings and/or meetings in all three Counties regarding the
Planning Process and incorporate existing plans into the Watershed Plan;
2.5 Determine how the Planning Unit will be staffed, contract with consultants
and professional services to conduct studies within the scope of the Planning Process, and fund
the activities of the Planning Unit;
2.6 Review and resolve the Planning Unit's disputes regarding interim
decisions on plan development activities;
2.7 Hold public hearings on the Watershed Plan prepared by the Planning
Unit, and provide a report on the public hearings and its recommendation to the County
legislative authorities for the approval process provided in Section 9 of HB 2514.
3. SUPPORT AND FINANCING FOR THE PROJECT
3.1 The Agency is authorized to apply for and accept grants in the name of the
Agency from federal, state, local and private sources. The Agency may utilize existing grant
funds and appropriations in the Agency's accounts for the purposes specified herein.
3.2 The Initiating Governments shall not be obligated to pay any debts of the
Agency or the Planning Unit. These costs shall be filnded solely through grants and voluntary
contributions.
3.3 The Agency shall approve annual budgets for its operations. The
Agency's fiscal year shall be July 1 through June 30. The budget for the Agency as expanded by
this Agreement shall be approved prior to June 30, 1998.
3.4 The Agency shall not acquire real property. Any personal property
acquired for use by the Agency shall be acquired in the name of the Agency and shall be sold or
equally and equitably divided among the Initiating Governments upon the termination of this
Agreement.
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:L {
4. REPORTING REQUI4l!!d`ENTS x , r
The Agency Director shall report monthly to, each Initiating Government regarding its
activities during the prior period. Reporting may be in "writing, or by reporting to the Tri -County
Water Resource Board at their monthly meeting. '
5. BOOKS, ACCOUNTS -AND PERSONNEL POLICIES
5.1 The Agency shall_ establish, ;a special fund with the Yakima County
Treasurer to be designated "Operating Fund of -the :TriCounty Water Resource Agency." All
sums received by the Agency shall be placed in such fund and all sums' expended by the Agency
shall be disbursed from such fund. The YakimayCounty Treasurer shall be the custodian of the
fund, and the Yakima County Auditor shall keep; record of the receipts and disbursements, and
shall draw and the Yakima County Treasurer :shall honor and pay all warrants, which shall be
approved before issuance' and payment 'as directed by the Agency. All interest earned ori sums
placed in the Agency's fund shall accrue to such fund. Reasonable administrative costs incurred
by Yakima County in the performance of this Section 5.1 shall be paid by the Agency, provided,
the Agency is not obligated to pay any such administrative costs in excess of their fair market
value.
5.2 The Agency shall keep fiill and complete books of accounts showing the
Planning Costs incurred in connection with the 'Planning Process. " The ,cost of keeping those
books shall be considered to be a Planning Cost of the Agency. Audits of the books shall be
performed annually by the Washington State Auditor, and the cost of such audit shall be
considered a Planning Cost. More frequent audits, if requested by any Initiating Government,
shall be charged to the Initiating Government making the request.
5.3 The Agency Director and any other supporting staff hired by the Agency
shall become employees of Yakima County and shall be subject to the personnel policies of
Yakima County.
6. TRI -COUNTY WATER RESOURCE BOARD
a
6.1 There is hereby -established a Tri -County Water Resource Board to act in
the name of the Agency for the purpose -Of (1) entering. contracts, engaging personnel and
consultants, and providing ,the watershed planning identified herein, (2) advising the Initiating
Governments concerning the Planning Process, (3) providing the Initiating Governments the
opportunity to resolve any disagreements that may arise between or among the Initiating
Governments or the- Plahriirig Unit representatives with respect to the Planning Process,
(4) providing a mechanism for reviewing°Planning Costs, and (5) for the additional purposes
described in this Agreement.
6.2 The Tri -County Water Resource Board shall consist of one representative
from each Initiating Government appointed by its legislative authority. Each such representative
shall be an elected official or the senior manager/administrator for the Initiating Government he
or she represents and shall have one vote. Each Initiating Government shall also designate an
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official to serve as an alternate with full authority in instances when the primary representative of
such Initiating Government is not available. A quorum of the Tri -County Water Resource Board
shall be five members. The Board shall take action by a majority vote. The Planning Unit's
approval of the Watershed Plan, and the County legislative authorities' approval of the
Watershed Plan, shall be as set forth in HB 2514, as it may be amended from time to time.
6.3 In June of every even numbered year, the Board shall elect a chairman and
vice-chairman to serve two year terms. The chairman, or in his/her absence the vice-chairman,
shall conduct meetings and such other business as authorized by the Board.
6.4 Initiating Governments may withdraw from the Agency and the Board by
providing written notice to the Agency Director or the chairman, or by announcing the
withdrawal at a public meeting of the. Board. This Intergovernmental Agreement shall remain
valid and in full force and effect and the Agency shall continue to serve as the Lead Agency for
the watershed planning process despite any such withdrawal. The withdrawal of any Initiating
Government from the Agency and Board shall not affect the Planning Unit's authority to prepare
the watershed plan or the approval process set forth in chapter 90.82 RCW. If the withdrawal of
one or more Initiating Governments at a Board meeting causes the Board to lack a quorum as
defined in paragraph 6.2, the remaining Board members in attendance shall constitute a quorum
for purposes of transacting business at that meeting, but no business may be conducted that was
not listed on the Board's agenda. The Board shall reexamine the quorum requirement in
paragraph 6.2 following the withdrawal of two or more Initiating Governments.
7. AGENCY AND PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
The Agency shall work in cooperation with the YIN, State and Federal agencies, and
Local Governments. Public participation through public hearings and other methods shall be
provided by the Agency as part of its management of the Planning Process.
8. PROTECTION OF EXISTING RIGHTS
The Watershed Plan authorized by HB 2514 and this Agreement shall not contain
any provisions that: (a) are in conflict with existing state statutes, federal laws, or tribal
treaty rights; (b) impair or diminish in any manner any existing water right evidenced by a
claim filed in the water rights claim registry established under chapter 90.14 RCW or a
water right certificate or permit; or (c) violate any other provision of Section 8 of HB 2514.
The Watershed Plan envisioned by this Agreement is intended to have prospective application
only with regard to water right applications, and to serve as a guide for future water resource
allocation and protection decisions for the Yakima River Basin by the Initiating Governments,
State and federal agencies, and other Local Governments in the planning area.
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9. INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT
This Agreement constitutes an exercise- of the Initiating Governments' authority under
Chapter 39.34 RCW, the Interlocal 'Cooperation- Act. Copies of this Agreement and the
resolutions from each Initiating Government authorizing the execution hereto shall be filed with
the county auditor of each' County; the State Department of Community, Trade and Economic
Development, the Secretary' of State, and the YIN Tribal Council.
10. EFFECTIVE DATE/TERM OF AGREEMENT
10.1 This Agreement shall be effective, -and the original Interlocal Agreement
dated November 6, 1995 shall be superseded by this Agreement, immediately upon its execution
by all Initiating Governments.
10.2 This Agreement shall automatically terminate effective at any time the
Agency does not have sufficient funds necessary to meet current Planning Costs, unless the
Initiating Governments each agree to contribute the sufficient funding necessary to meet
Planning Costs for the current fiscal year..
10.3 Unless earlier terminated under Section 10.2 or by written notice from
each of the Initiating Governments, this Agreement shall terminate four years from the date the
Agency receives its first grant funds from the State under HB 2514, if it is not extended by
written agreement approved by each Initiating Government's legislative authority prior to such
date.
11. ADOPTION/AMENDMENT
This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, all of which shall
constitute one Agreement. The execution of one counterpart by any party shall have the same
force and effect as if that party had signed all other counterparts. This Agreement may be
amended at any regular or special meeting of the Tri -County Water Resource Board with the
unanimous approval of the designated representatives of the Initiating Governments.
Amendments shall be numbered and attached to the Agreement and distributed as set forth in
Section 9.
Approved as to form: BENTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMIVIISSIONERS
ATTEST:
Chairman Date
Member
Clerk of the Board Member
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Approved as to form: KITTITAS COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Chairman, Date
ATTEST:
Member
Clerk of the Board Member
Approved as to form: YAKIMA COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ATTEST:
Chair Date
Member
Clerk of the Board Member
ATTEST: CITY OF ELLENSBURG
City Clerk
Mayor Date
ATTEST: CITY OF YAKIMA
City Clerk
INTO VT98-TCwRA
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Mayor
1
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Date
ROZA IRRIGATION DISTRICT
Manager Date
SUNNYSIDE VALLEY IRRIGATION DISTRICT
Manager Date
YAKIMA-TIETON IRRIGATION DISTRICT
Manager Date
(If invitation accepted)
CONFEDERATED TRIBES AND BANDS
OF THE YAKAMA INDIAN NATION
Chair, Tribal Council Date
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ATTEST:
City Clerk
Contract No. 99-08
sIl.y
SUNNYSIDE�IRRIGATION DISTRICT
04/44 VA1140, 1114199
Man Date
YAKIMA-TIETON IRRIGATION DISTRICT
ILLJ
Manager
Date/
/ate C!�
(If invitation accepted)
CONFEDERATED TRIBES AND BANDS
OF THE YAKAMA INDIAN NATION
Chair, Tribal Council Date
TCWRA Intergvmt Agm
and including amendments 12/23/98
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