HomeMy WebLinkAbout09/15/1998 Business Meeting 244
CITY OF YAKIMA, WASHINGTON
SEPTEMBER 15, 1998
• BUSINESS MEETING
1. ROLL CALL
The City Council met in session on this date at 2:00 p.m.,
in the Council Chambers of City Hall, Yakima, Washington,
Mayor John Puccinelli, presiding. Council Members Clarence
Barnett, Henry Beauchamp, Lynn Buchanan, John Klingele, Mary
Place, and Bernard Sims present on roll call. City Manager
Zais, City Attorney Paolella, and City Clerk Roberts also
present.
2. INVOCATION /PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Invocation was given by Mayor Puccinelli, followed by
the Pledge of Allegiance led by Council Member Sims.
3. OPEN DISCUSSION FOR THE GOOD OF THE ORDER
A. PROCLAMATIONS (IF APPLICABLE)
• Yakima, Wash. Week
Mayor Puccinelli proclaimed September 13 -19, 1998 as Yakima,
Wash. Week to recognize the motion picture, "Yakima, Wash. ",
that was filmed in Yakima and directed and produced by two
former Yakima Valley residents. The premier showing will be
at the Capitol Theatre on Saturday, September 12, 1998.
• Constitution Week
Council Member Klingele read the proclamation declaring
September 17 -23, 1998 as Constitution Week. He reminded all
citizens of the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of
American citizenship. Mary Harvey, Narcissa Chapter of the
Daughters of the Revolution, accepted the proclamation and
explained this year is the 211 anniversary of the, signing
of the Constitution'.
• Literacy Awareness Month
Council Member Place read the proclamation declaring the
month of September as Literacy Awareness Month. Yakima
Literacy Coalition and Zonta International are promoting
literacy awareness in Yakima as part of a state and national
reading programs. Sister Gillette accepted the
proclamation.
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• Yakima Kids Day
Council Member Buchanan read the proclamation declaring
September 20, 1998 as Yakima Kids Day. He encouraged the
community to participate with young people and recognize the .
importance of children as a natural resource for the best
interest of the community. A representative from CANCY
accepted the proclamation.
• Yakima Greenway Month
Council Member Buchanan read the proclamation declaring
September 1998 as Yakima Greenway Month. Cec Vogt,
Executive Director of the Greenway Foundation, accepted the
•
proclamation and invited the Council to visit Greenway
facilities and attend activities planned during the month.
• Glen Mize Recognition
•
Don Blesio, Chief of Police, introduced Glenn Mize and noted
his devotion, dedication, and outstanding community service
during his 13 years with the On -Guard Program. Mayor
Puccinelli presented a certificate of recognition to
Mr. Mize, who accepted the award and encouraged others to
participate in the On -Guard program.
4. CONSENT AGENDA
Mayor Puccinelli referred to the items placed on the Consent
Agenda, questioning whether there were any additions or
deletions from either Council members or citizens present.
It was the consensus of the Council to add Agenda Items Nos:
12 and 22 and to remove Agenda Item No. 18B from the Consent
Agenda. The City Clerk then read the Consent Agenda items,
including resolutions and ordinances by title. It was MOVED
BY SIMS, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN, THAT THE CONSENT AGENDA, AS
READ, BE ADOPTED. The motion carried by unanimous roll call
vote. (Subsequent paragraphs proceeded by an asterisk ( *)
indicate items on the Consent Agenda handled under one motion
without further discussion.)
*5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE SEPTEMBER 1, 1998 BUSINESS
MEETING AND AMENDED AUGUST 18, 1998 STUDY SESSION
The minutes of the September 1, 1998 Business meeting and
the August 18, 1998 Study Session, as amended, were
approved, having been duly certified accurate by two Council
members and no one present wishing to have said minutes read
publicly.
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6.. PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER HEARING EXAMINER'S RECOMMENDATION
ON RIGHT -OF -WAY VACATION OF UNDEVELOPED ALLEYWAY AT VOELKER
AND LEDWICH AVENUES, PIERCE AND KING STREETS, REQUESTED BY
DEBRA POTTER AND NEIGHBORS
This being the time set for the public hearing, Dan Valoff,
• Associate Planner, summarized the vacation 'request for the
20 -foot wide alleyway. The Hearing Examiner reviewed the
application at a Public Hearing on July 23, 1998; one person
spoke in opposition to the right -of -way vacation. The
Hearing Examiner's recommendation is to deny the petition,
and City staff agrees with that recommendation. Mr. Valoff
answered several questions posed by Council Member Barnett
concerning sewer and irrigation utility pipes currently
located in the alleyway.
Mayor Puccinelli opened the public hearing and invited
testimony from the audience.
Ron Wilson, 1614 Voelker Avenue, spoke in favor of the
Right -of -Way Vacation. He feels if the alley was vacated
then the property would be more secure. He feels the
utilities are in a poor location, but would be willing to
grant an easement so they could be maintained.
Eric Zahler, who owns property at 1606, 1608, and 1620
Voelker Avenue, spoke against vacating the alleyway. He
feels the easement should remain so the utilities can be
maintained.
Ruth Zahler, 1606 Voelker Avenue, spoke against the Right-
of -Way Vacation. She feels it would be in the
neighborhood's best interest to leave it the way it is.
There being no one, else wishing to comment, Mayor Puccinelli
closed the public hearing. It was MOVED BY KLINGELE,
SECONDED BY SIMS, TO UPHOLD THE HEARING EXAMINER'S
RECOMMENDATION TO DENY THE RIGHT -OF -WAY VACATION REQUEST.
The motion carried by unanimous roll call vote.
7. PUBLIC MEETING TO CONSIDER HEARING EXAMINER'S RECOMMENDATION
ON REZONE OF PROPERTY AT 1113 SOUTH 18 STREET, REQUESTED
BY WENDY HOLLINGSWORTH dba CIRCLE "H" RV RANCH, INC.
This being the time set for the public meeting, Dan Valoff
briefly summarized the three components included in the
master application. The applicant has requested a rezone of
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2.85 acres from R -2, Two - Family Residential, to M -1, Light
Industrial, for the purpose of adding 20 RV camping spaces
to the existing RV Park. A Class 2 review is required for
the RV campground expansion in the M -1 zoning district. A
Class 3 review is required to allow an amusement park on the
1.50 -acre parcel, also currently zoned M -1, located
immediately west of I -82. Mr. Valoff noted that this
amusement area will consist of a miniature golf course, a
go -cart track, bumper boats, a tennis court /basketball
court, a video arcade, and a snackbar with covered picnic
areas. The project was reviewed at a public hearing before
the Hearing Examiner on July 23, 1998. There was no
opposition to the proposal. On August 13, 1998, the Hearing
Examiner rendered his recommendation to approve the
requested rezone and master application for the expansion of
the RV park and amusement park. The staff recommendation to
the Council is to . uphold the Hearing Examiner's
recommendation and direct legal staff to prepare the
appropriate legislation.
Clarifying several points for Council Members Barnett and
Place, Mr. Valoff described the issues surrounding the
LaSalle Street deed exception. He also provided background
information about the zoning discrepancy involving the
undeveloped phase of the RV park. That land reverted to R -2
zoning when the Planned Development zoning district was
eliminated following the adoption of the Urban Area Zoning
Ordinance (UAZO) in the late 1980s.
Mayor Puccinelli opened the public meeting and invited
comments from the audience.
Wanda Schmidt, 1623 Ledwich, wanted to comment about Agenda
Item No. 6, the Right -Of -Way Vacation request. Since the
Council had already taken action on that item, she was
advised the application had been denied.
There being no one wishing to comment about the
Hollingsworth Master application, Mayor Puccinelli closed
the public meeting. It was MOVED BY KLINGELE, SECONDED BY
SIMS, TO UPHOLD THE HEARING EXAMINER'S RECOMMENDATION FOR
APPROVAL OF THE MASTER LAND USE APPLICATION AND DIRECT LEGAL
STAFF TO PREPARE THE APPROPRIATE LEGISLATION. The motion
carried by unanimous roll call vote.
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8. AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION
Lynne Kittelson directed attention to a previous Council
action allowing the removal of two trees in order to move a
house onto property located at 310 North 9 Street. She
described the run -down condition of that property.
9. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SALE AND PURCHASE OF
WATER AND SEWER REVENUE BONDS
John Hanson, Director of Finance and Budget, directed
attention to the 1998 Water /Sewer Revenue and Refunding
Bonds that were authorized for issuance in August 1998. He
reported the issue was marketed to investors and because of
the bond market and strong marketing, an exceptional rate
was received, 11% for refunded issues for a $500,000
savings. Mr. Hanson and Alan Granberg, with Seattle
Northwest Securities, responded to questions from the
Council concerning redemption rates and payments as it
relates to refinancing the bonds. City Manager Zais
explained the bond line is a level payment over the entire
life of the bonds. Resolution No. R -98 -132 having been read
by title it was MOVED BY BUCHANAN, SECONDED BY KLINGELE TO
ADOPT THE RESOLUTION. The motion carried by unanimous roll
call vote. Comments were made that the 4.5% interest rate
for Revenue bonds is extraordinary.
RESOLUTION NO. R -98 -138, A RESOLUTION authorizing the
execution and delivery of a contract for purchase of the
City's water and sewer revenue and refunding bonds, 1998, in
the aggregate principal amount of [$7,945,000], fixing
certain terms of the bonds, providing for the refunding of
certain outstanding revenue bonds, approving the form of the
official statement therefor and the distribution thereof,
and ratifying certain acts and proceedings.
10. ACCEPT REPORT FROM TRAFFIC ENGINEERING REGARDING PETITION
FOR NORTH 45 AVENUE DEAD -END BARRIER, NORTH OF BARGE ST.
' Shelley Willson, Acting Streets and Traffic Operations
Manager, explained this report originated from a petition
from residents of 45 Avenue who wanted to barricade the
street because of traffic impacts. During the process of
talking with the neighborhood, there are some people who did
not want a barricade installed. The staff recommendation is
• that Council: (1) not direct staff to act on the citizen
request for installation of a barricade on North 45
Avenue, north of Barge Street; (2) request Police to provide
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periodic traffic enforcement; and (3) encourage the
neighborhood to participate in the Neighborhood Speed Watch
Program. Staff also recommends placing this neighborhood on
the list with forty -five other areas interested in
neighborhood calming devices.
Mayor Puccinelli invited comments from the audience.
Peggy Tait, 7 South 45 Avenue, noted . that she realizes
that 45 Avenue is the only route that traffic can take to
get through from 42 Avenue through 48 Avenue. She
pointed out that 46 Avenue is a dead -end street and is
barricaded and the fire and garbage service is handled just
fine. She objected to maintaining the current status quo
and feels it is not fair when 22 households had signed the
petition. Participating in the Speed Watch program is not
acceptable to her. She complained about those who speed,
saying the average speed is 27 mph and it is faster. She
feels the law should be enforced especially since middle
school students . walk this route to school. She reported
that staff did their study after school was dismissed and,at
the wrong time of day.
Council Member Barnett asked staff to clarify Alternative
One. He pointed out that traffic enforcement and calming
devices would be beyond the current status quo.
Anita Monoian, 1 North 44 Avenue, spoke against the
barricade because of safety issues. She referred to the
Chestnut pedestrian and bike route and feels it would not be
as safe if a barricade is put in place. Jeanne Crawford, 2
.North 44 Avenue, agreed with the staff report.
Lynne Kittelson, 305 North 9 Street, urged the Council to
take action about speeding, occurring all over the city.
Warren Sutliff, owner of property between Barge and
Summitview Avenue, feels a closure of 45 Avenue would be
detrimental to his plans to subdivide his property. He also
feels that traffic would be forced onto Chestnut and that
would not be a good idea. He also agrees with the staff
report.
Leona Regimbal, 4 North 44 Avenue, spoke against the
barricade because of the lack of visibility. She feels that
Summitview is much easier to access than 40 Avenue: She
suggested an LID be done for 45 Avenue to widen the
street.
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Shelley Willson explained that the speed studies were done
last fall and speed data was gathered when school was in
session. The rest was done this summer. She also reported
that stop signs are not warranted in these areas. She
responded to questions posed by members of the Council
concerning traffic calming devices. She indicated that 45
Avenue does not have curbs or gutters, and the traffic
calming bumps would not be effective because cars could
drive around them. There was a considerable amount of
discussion concerning the various types of traffic calming
devices, that the problem is not being solved but being
moved around, and the large number of requests received from
all areas of the city. City Manager Zais noted that during
budget development, the arterial street fund would receive
some funding for traffic calming devices in next year's
budget.
It was MOVED BY BARNETT, SECONDED BY KLINGELE, TO ACCEPT THE
STAFF RECOMMENDATION. The motion carried by 6 -1 voice vote;
Sims voting nay. Council Member Buchanan asked if a traffic
light is warranted at 40 and Chestnut. Shelley Willson
indicated that all the alternatives would be considered when
those are warranted.
11. CONSIDERATION OF COUNCIL TRANSIT TASK FORCE RECOMMENDATIONS
AND PUBLIC HEARING TESTIMONY
Bill Schultz, Transit Manager, reported the Council Transit
Committee has reviewed the Citizen Transit Task Force
recommendations and the public comments from the
September 1, 1998 public hearing. It was the consensus of
the Council for Mr. Schultz to summarize each Task Force
recommendation, then receive comments from the audience, and
finally Council will vote on the recommendation.
The first recommendation is to reduce the number of Dial -A-
Ride (DAR) eligible clients to 1% of the total City
population. Mr. Schultz reported that a consultant has been
hired to help modify the DAR application process and to
•
refine certain issues with Access Paratransit, the City's
current paratransit contractor. As part of that review, new
criteria will be added to the application. This new
information will help assess an individual's ability to
access public transportation and determine certain
transportation needs based on an individual's disability.
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Council Member Sims pointed out that recommendations one and
three are related and need to be coordinated. It should be
determined whether there would be enough people to utilize
wheelchair lifts to make it feasible to retrofit the
existing buses. Equally important, would it make economic
sense to add curb cuts or other provisions to eliminate
certain barriers or obstacles that those with disability
encounter. Depending on the outcome of that review, Council
Member Sims suggested sharpening the criteria for DAR
eligibility. After that screening process, a determination
could be made whether to retrofit the buses or not.
Discussion continued about the capabilities of the existing
buses and how Yakima Transit's ridership compares to other
cities; then Mayor Puccinelli invited comments from the
audience.
Mary McDaniels, 906 South 80 Avenue, a transit user and a .
Dial -A -Ride user, feels DAR eligibility should be reviewed
to determine whether it is cost effective. At the same time
she feels peoples' rights should be protected.
Ms. McDaniels also indicated that she doubts there are very
many users who are abusing the DAR system.
There being no one else from the audience who wished to
comment, it was MOVED BY SIMS, SECONDED BY PLACE, TO
ESTABLISH A GOAL TO ACCOMPLISH A REASONABLE DAR PERCENTAGE
THAT INVOLVES OUR CURRENT DECISION ON RETROFITTING THE
EXISTING BUSES. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
The Council considered the second recommendation, to
purchase buses with seating to accommodate 85% of the peak
ridership by route. Bill Schultz reported that the Council
Transit Committee decided to only consider buses that could
be readily obtained through current contracts with other
transit systems or through the State. This would avoid a
lot of time and costs of going out to bid. Two buses met
that criterion. One is referred to as the Blue Bird
Transhuttle CS model; the other one is referred to as a
cutaway, also known as the Aerotech, built by Eldorado
National.
Mr. Schultz described the criteria they considered when they
originally chose the Blue Bird bus from what was available.
On paper that vehicle appeared to be the best of the two
choices because it is heavy duty, its gross vehicle weight
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is higher, it is steel bodied, and has a large diesel
engine. However, reports received just one hour before this
meeting are not good. Two transit systems within
Washington, which have experience using the Blue Bird
Transhuttle CS model bus, indicated that the maintenance
costs on this model are very labor intensive and problems
have been found in other systems within the bus. Their
advice is to avoid that particular model.
Following Mr. Schultz's comments there was an extensive
discussion about the clack of useful operating cost
information on the two buses under consideration.
Mr. Schultz described some of the challenges associated with
finding comparable statistics. Not having complete,
accurate data was disturbing and disappointing; therefore,
City Manager Zais requested more time to develop another
recommendation to the Council.
Council Member Beauchamp pointed out that cutaway buses have
been successfully used all over the country in car rental
agencies, hotels, and as airport shuttles. He feels they
would be the viable way to go. Council Member Buchanan
feels the stop and go routes of Yakima's Transit system
requires a bus to serve that purpose. He suggested looking
into other models from the manufacturer.
There was discussion about the price information for the
Blue Bird buses. Mr. Schultz explained the price came from
the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT)
from a Florida State bid. The cost per bus is $80,000 to a
little more than $100,000 before taxes and additional
options. Funding for the buses will come from a capital
grant. Mr. Schultz estimated the federal share to be
something over $886,000. The grant application needs to be
submitted by the end of September in order to receive
funding for the next fiscal year which starts October 1,
1998.
It was the consensus of the Council that a decision should
not be made in haste, and they asked Mr. Schultz for a staff
recommendation. Mr. Schultz noted that he does not
recommend a cutaway type bus for the City's fixed route
system. Since the Task Force's recommendation ultimately
led to considering smaller buses, staff chose buses with the
most heavy -duty type chassis and higher gross vehicle weight
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from what they had to choose from. City Manager Zais noted
that since new information has come to light, it is
premature for the Council to decide the issue at this
meeting. There was continued discussion about choosing the
right bus.
Bruce Smith, Chairman of the Citizens Transit Task Force,
urged the Council to buy the Eldorado National Aerotech bus
at $67,000; he pointed out that it operates for about $45 an
hour, which includes depreciation, as opposed to $80 an hour
for operating costs that the City currently pays. Mr. Smith
explained he was under the impression that staff supported
the Task Force's recommendation to buy the Aerotech bus.
Mr. Smith also reported that the statistics, documentation
of price, and other information for the Aerotech are
available from the Tri- Cities. He again urged the Council
to choose the Aerotech and not delay this decision.
Al DeAtley, a member of the Citizen's Transit Task Force,
urged the Council to choose the Aerotech. He indicated that
WSDOT has a compiled list of operational cost information on
file from all transit districts in the state. He reported
that Pullman, Walla Walla, and Olympia could also provide
the needed operating cost information. Those cities are
using cutaway buses on fixed routes; it seems to be a way of
the future.
Ernie Berger, a member of the Citizen's Transit Task Force,
summarized a conversation he had with the Finance Director
from Walla Walla about their experience using cutaway buses
in their PTBA area. He was impressed with the low operating
costs, the low initial costs to buy the buses, and how well
the local citizens and staff received the cutaway buses.
' Bruce Smith briefly explained what is meant by cost per
revenue hour, cost per hour to operate, and the capacity
percentage. He urged the Council to choose the smaller
buses because hundreds of thousands of dollars could be
saved by switching to them. He pointed out that they are
already handicapped, wheelchair accessible and there will be
plenty of seating for the passengers.
Council Member Beauchamp spoke in favor of the Citizens Task
Force's recommendation and it was MOVED BY BEAUCHAMP,
SECONDED BY BARNETT, TO MOVE TOWARD THE CUTAWAY AND PURCHASE
THE AEROTECH ELDORADO NATIONAL AT $69,000. There was
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SEPTEMBER 15, 1998
continued discussion and Mr. Smith described the AeroTech
and the Aero Elite buses. He explained the base price for
the AeroTech is approximately $66,000; however, fixed route
options would need to be added, so the cost will be about
$69,000. He also noted that these are not heavy -duty
vehicles, and the replacement schedule will be accelerated
to about every our years; however, the operating cost
savings will pay for that replacement. City Manager Zais
pointed out that staff doesn't have an alternative
recommendation, leaving the Task Force's recommendation by
itself.
Mary McDaniels again approached the podium and urged the
Council to review the safety aspects of the cutaway buses.
Lynne Kittelson, 305 North 9th Street, urged the Council to
follow staff's recommendation to not use cutaway buses for
the fixed route system.
Council Member Buchanan explained he would abstain from
voting on this issue because more information is needed. He
would like to have specifications provided on the Aerotech.
In light of reservations from other Council members, Council
Member Beauchamp withdrew his motion and Council Member
Barnett withdrew his second. There was an extensive
discussion about several issues including submitting the
grant application with a generic budget request with an
amendment submitted later to reflect Council's decision on
the specific bus and developing a recommendation by the
October 6th Business Meeting. Since the grant doesn't limit
the type of bus, it was the consensus of the group to submit
a generic application requesting the maximum cost for a bus,
subject to adjustment if necessary. It was MOVED BY
BUCHANAN, SECONDED BY PLACE, THAT THE GRANT APPLICATION BE
SUBMITTED AND THE DETAILS REFINED AS MORE INFORMATION IS
AVAILABLE AND A DECISION IS MADE AS TO THE SPECIFIC TYPE OF
BUS. Mr. DeAtley requested that staff thoroughly check out
the safety issue to see if there are any hidden insurance
costs. Mr. Smith indicated he would provide backup
documentation for their proposal. After Mayor Puccinelli
passed the gavel to Assistant Mayor Place, it was MOVED BY
PUCCINELLI, SECONDED BY PLACE, TO AMEND THE MOTION TO
INCLUDE THAT THE INFORMATION BE RECEIVED BY THE OCTOBER 6TH
MEETING. The motion carried by a 6 -0 voice vote; Buchanan
abstaining. The question was called for a vote on the
motion as amended. The motion carried by 5 -2 voice vote;
Klingele and Barnett voting nay.
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After briefly discussing Recommendation No. 3, it was MOVED
BY KLINGELE, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN, TO SUBMIT AN APPLICATION
TO PROVIDE FOR RETROFITTING 11 BUSES WITH WHEELCHAIR LIFTS.
The motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
I/ After briefly discussing Recommendation No. 4, it was MOVED
BY BARNETT, SECONDED BY KLINGELE, TO DENY THE REQUEST FOR AN
INCREASE IN THE BASE FARE TO $1.00 AND DAR FARE TO $2.00.
The motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
Directing attention to Recommendation No. 5, it was MOVED BY
PLACE, SECONDED BY KLINGELE, TO ELIMINATE THE 10 -DAY GRACE
PERIOD FOR THE MONTHLY PURCHASED TICKETS. The motion
carried by unanimous voice vote. After briefly discussing
the possibility, it was MOVED BY BUCHANAN, SECONDED BY
KLINGELE, TO CONDUCT AN ANALYSIS OF THE VARIOUS FARE
STRUCTURES. Council Member Sims requested this be done some
time after the November election to see what the outcome is
of Referendum 49. Discussion took place concerning pass
riders and DAR riders that ride the bus for free. The
question was called for a vote on the motion. The motion
carried by a 6 -1 voice vote; Klingele voting nay.
Concerning Recommendation No. 5 to reduce fleet size to meet
federal policy, it was noted that this has already been
accomplished with the elimination of the three non - working
buses. It was MOVED BY PLACE, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN, TO
ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THIS RECOMMENDATION HAS BEEN ACCOMPLISHED
WITH THE ELIMINATION OF THREE BUSES THAT ARE NOT LONGER
FUNCTIONING. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
Recommendation No. 6 is to reduce Sunday DAR service and
service on non - transit holidays. After a brief discussion
about the issue, it was MOVED BY KLINGELE, SECONDED BY SIMS,
THAT A REPORT BE PREPARED OUTLINING EACH SUNDAY AND NON -
TRANSIT SERVICE HOLIDAY SO THEY CAN BE VOTED ON INDIVIDUALLY
TO BRING BACK AT THE OCTOBER 6 MEETING. The motion
carried by 6 -1 voice vote; Place voting nay. The next
recommendation is to consider Access Paratransit's proposal
for a one -year demonstration contract to operate Fixed
Routes 3 and 10. It was MOVED BY KLINGELE, SECONDED BY
I/ BUCHANAN, TO DENY ACCESS PARATRANSIT'S OFFER TO TAKE OVER
ROUTES 3 AND 10. Council Member Place feels there is not
enough information available on this proposal to vote on
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this at this time. For clarification Council Member Sims
asked if this offer is denied, does this mean the City is
not even going to research the question with regard to
future contracts. Council Member Klingele feels it won't
reduce the opportunity for future contract consideration,
but this is the wrong time for this kind of proposal. The
cost of staff time would overrule any contract savings.
Council Member Buchanan pointed out that when this subject
came up in the past, it ended up in labor negotiations and
it probably would end up that way this time. City Manager
Zais explained what would probably happen if the Council
approved it, denied it, or deferred it indefinitely pending
review with labor unions on the issues and questions that
are still outstanding. Council Member Barnett pointed out
that any demonstration project would have to be
competitively bid. City Manager Zais explained that in
addition to the competitive bidding requirement, there are
legal issues involved in negotiating the impact and the
effects of any contracted services. Council Member Buchanan
noted that any legal ramifications would need to be
determined. This is not the right time for this specific
proposal; however, this issue can be brought up again, but
not with just one provider. The question was called for a
vote on the motion. The motion carried by unanimous voice
vote. It was MOVED BY BARNETT, SECONDED BY KLINGELE, THAT
INFORMATION ON A DEMONSTRATION PROJECT, COMPETITIVE BIDDING,
AND CONTRACTING OUT BE BROUGHT BACK TO COUNCIL. The motion
failed by a 3 -4 voice vote; Buchanan, Klingele, Place, and
Sims voting nay. Several members of the Council noted that
this issue can still be brought up, but first it should be
studied further to determine how it could work through the
legal process. In the past this issue has been discussed
and each time has been a case of if it is contracted out
people have to be put in equivalent jobs either in Yakima or
in some other city, and that gets very expensive. It was
MOVED BY BARNETT, SECONDED BY BEAUCHAMP, TO HAVE STAFF COME
BACK AT A LATER DATE AS IT RELATES TO LABOR ISSUES ON
CONTRACTING OUT WITH INCLUSION OF THE DEMONSTRATION ISSUES.
The motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
Council Member Sims explained that Route 10 was started as a
demonstration project in the 1980s; it was questionable
whether it is of any use; its average ridership is two. He
feels that it should not continue. The Transit Division has
been asked to look at a more effective way to use Route 10
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funds to access high- density areas of either care units or
adult living facilities. It was MOVED BY SIMS, SECONDED. BY
PLACE, TO FOLLOW PUBLIC HEARING PROCEDURES TO CONSIDER THE
ELIMINATION OF ROUTE 10 AND PROVIDE AN ALTERNATIVE SPECIAL
FOCUS ROUTE TO BETTER SERVE THE CITIZENS OF YAKIMA. This
I/ issue was not included in the Transit Task Force's
recommendations and since it is a possible change in service
proposal then, a public hearing will be required. The
question was called for a vote on the motion. The motion
carried by unanimous voice vote.
*12. CONSIDERATION OF 1997 CONSOLIDATED PLAN ANNUAL PERFORMANCE
REPORT AND EVALUATION REPORT
The Council accepted the 1997 Consolidated Plan Annual
Performance Report and Evaluation Report.
13. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION REGARDING HAZARDOUS DEBRIS AND
ABATEMENT PROGRAM
•
Jack Lovell, Acting Code Administration Manager, reported
three properties were removed from the list: 615 South 14
Avenue, 3409 Taylor Way, and 2919 River Road. Responding to
a question from Council Member Place, Mr. Lovell explained
complaints are received and then investigated for many of
the weedy lots. There being no one on the list available
for comment, and Resolution No. R -98 -133 having been read by
title only, it was MOVED BY BUCHANAN, SECONDED BY SIMS TO
ADOPT THE RESOLUTION. The motion carried by unanimous roll
call vote.
RESOLUTION NO. R -98 -133, A RESOLUTION authorizing the Code
Administration Manager to clear certain weedy lots.
•
*14. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SALE OF SURPLUS CITY
PROPERTY
RESOLUTION NO. R -98 -134, A RESOLUTION authorizing the sale
of surplus property owned by the City.
*15. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CONTRACT WITH HUIBREGTSE LOUMAN
I/ ASSOCIATES FOR COMPLETION OF I -82 /GATEWAY PROJECT
RESOLUTION NO. R -98 -135, A RESOLUTION authorizing and
directing the City Manager and City Clerk of the City of
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258
SEPTEMBER 15, 1998
Yakima to execute Contract Amendment No. 8, amending
Supplemental Agreement to the Local Agency Agreement 94 -57
with Huibregtse, Louman Associates, Inc., Consulting
Engineers for professional engineering services on the
I -82 /Yakima Avenue project in the City of Yakima, City
project 1847.
*16. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF
CONTRACT WITH STATE DEPARTMENT OF INFORMATION SYSTEMS,
WASHINGTON INTERACTIVE TECHNOLOGY FOR CITY WEB SITE
DEVELOPMENT
RESOLUTION NO. R -98 -136, A RESOLUTION authorizing the City
Manager and the City Clerk to execute an Agreement between
the City of Yakima and the State of Washington Department of
Information Systems, Washington Interactive Technologies,
for the purpose of website development.
*17. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION APPROVING SECOND QUARTER 1998
CLAIMS REPORT
RESOLUTION NO. R -98 -137, A RESOLUTION accepting and
approving the 2 Quarter 1998 Insurance claims Report.
18. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF ISSUANCE OF TAXI DRIVER'S
LICENSE FOR:
*A. JIM McKINNEY
The staff recommendation to issue a taxi driver's license to
Jim McKinney was accepted.
B. JAMES O'BRIEN
Council Member Place. pulled this item from the Consent
Agenda to express concerns about obligations to protect our
citizens. This gentleman has had more than three speeding
violations. Don Blesio, Chief of Police, explained there is
an error on the list. One occurred in 1997 so that last
violation occurred more than one and a half years ago.
After further discussion about the applicant's driving
record, it was MOVED BY BARNETT, SECONDED BY KLINGELE, TO
APPROVE THE APPLICATION. The motion carried by 6 -1 voice
vote; Place voting nay. It was noted that this issue should
be brought up as a cautionary warning to taxi drivers that
consideration is given to the number of violations issued.
*19. APPROVAL OF SECOND QUARTER 1998 REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE
(BUDGET) REPORT
The Second Quarter 1998 Revenue and Expenditure (Budget)
Report was accepted and approved.
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259
SEPTEMBER 15, 1998
*20. APPROVAL OF FINAL CONTRACT PAYMENT FOR ADELINE PROPERTY
DEMOLITION PROJECT (STANDARD MOTION V-B—ACCEPT PROJECT AND
APPROVE FINAL PAYMENT)
The report from the City Engineer, dated September 15, 1998,
I with respect to the completion of the work on the demolition
of two buildings (former Adeline property), performed by
I Northwest Regional Services, Inc., was approved, the work
accepted and payment of the final estimates as therein set
forth was authorized.
*21. SET DATE OF PUBLIC MEETING FOR OCTOBER 6, 1998 FOR:
A. REZONE OF CITY -OWNED PROPERTY AT 3300 WEST NOB HILL
BLVD.
B. CONSIDERATION OF HEARING EXAMINER'S RECOMMENDATION ON
REZONE OF PROPERTY AT 2701 ENGLEWOOD AVENUE, REQUESTED
BY EPIC
October 6, 1998 was set as the date of public meetings for
the rezone of City -owned property at 3300 West Nob Hill
Boulevard and for the rezone of property at 2701 Englewood
Avenue, requested by EPIC
*22. CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCE AMENDING THE MUNICIPAL CODE
AMENDING THE SEPA AUTHORITY
ORDINANCE NO. 98 -40, AN ORDINANCE relating to local
administrative appeal procedures . under the State
Environmental Policy Act; and amending YMC 6.88.170 to be
consistent with RCW 43..21C.075.
*23. SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE AMENDING THE 1998 BUDGET AND
APPROPRIATING FUNDS FOR NEW STAGE LIGHTING AT THE CAPITOL
THEATRE
An Ordinance amending the 1998 budget and appropriating
funds for new stage lighting at the Capitol Theatre,
previously having been read by title only, was brought
before the Council for a second reading.
ORDINANCE NO. 98 -41, AN ORDINANCE amending the 1998 bu
I/ for the City of Yakima; and making appropriations of $30,000
within the 171 Capitol Theatre Fund for expenditure during
1998 to purchase and install a new stage lighting control
board.
24. OTHER BUSINESS
There were no items for business brought up for discussion.
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SEPTEMBER 15, 1998
Information Items:
Items of information provided for Council were: News Release
regarding the repaving of several city streets beginning
September 14, 1998; Agenda for the September 21, 1998 Yakima
Valley Conference of Governments (COG) Executive Committee
meeting and minutes of its August 17, 1998 meeting. Agenda
for the September 16, 1998 COG General Membership meeting
and minutes of its May 20, 1998 meeting; Monthly Report of
the Chief of Police for July 1998; Monthly Code
Administration Division Report for August 1998; City of
Yakima Planning Division Assignments Pending as of
September 15, 1998. 8/27/98; Meeting Reminder for the
September 17 and 24, 1998 Yakima Friendly Tree Committee
meetings; and Agenda for the September 14, 1998 Parks and
Recreation Commission meeting and minutes of its July 13,
1998 meeting.
25. EXECUTIVE SESSION REGARDING PENDING AND PROSPECTIVE
LITIGATION AND COLLECTIVE BARGAINING
It was MOVED BY KLINGELE, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN, TO MOVE INTO
EXECUTIVE SESSION TO DISCUSS PENDING AND PROSPECTIVE
LITIGATION AND COLLECTIVE BARGAINING, WITH IMMEDIATE
ADJOURNMENT THEREAFTER. The motion carried by unanimous
voice vote.
26. ADJOURNMENT
•
Following the conclusion of the Executive Session, the
meeting adjourned at 5:53 p.m.
/
READ AND CERTIFIED ACCURATE BY: ( /2/-7-Pt?
COUNI1 L MEM 1 DATE
AI
' R DATE
ATTEST:
/ / .��
f fc 3„ ,�' �2� -e��� �, coic , 1 , _ . �1
CITY CLERK JOHN ' CCINELLI, MAYOR
Minutes prepared by Deputy City Clerk Skovald. An audio and videotape of this meeting are
available in the City Clerk's Office.
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