HomeMy WebLinkAbout12/09/1989 Adjourned Meeting '3 46.
DECEMBER 9, 1989
'ADJOURNED MEETING - BUDGET WRAP UP.SESSION'
The City Council met in session on this'date at 9:00 A.M. in' the Council
Chambers of City Hall, Yakima, Washington, Mayor Berndt presiding. Council
members present were Clarence Barnett, Henry Beauchamp, Lynn Buchanan,
Jerry Foy and Bernard Sims. City staff present were City Manager Zais,
Director of Budget and Finance Hanson, Accounting Manager Wheeler, City
Clerk Roberts and Deputy City Clerk Toney.
Prior to consideration of the 1989 Budget, Assistant City Manager Stouder
reviewed the,,Comprehensive Metropolitan Plan. Mr. Stouder stated staff
has been discussing the idea`of a Comprehensive Plan, the Futures Plan and
the Visioning Process, etc., all of which'are' items initiated ' at a Council
workshop approximately four years ago. Mr. Stouder stated there is a need
to do a Yakima Plan because the current Yakima Boundary Plan is obsolete.
He indicated that state and federal regulations continually drive some of
the planning components of these items. He said the development" issues
currently facing the City are in conflict with the existing plans and
policies, i.e., the Moxee .request to be part of the Wastewater Treatment
Systems Tree' Tops request'to''have access to the sprayfield, West Valley
School District's need for the''Citysewer system, the development proposals
for major shopping centers, etc. The City can continue to deal with these
issues as exceptions to the rules, however, the impacts are more
significant. Staff needs to continue with the development of the details •
of the work components from the technical planning aspects for land use,
drainage, parks. and recreation, regional transportation, etc. He. stated
the City does not have detailed work programs or budgets because: 1).the
City is continuing to work with the County to_.insure unity in:this process,
and 2) to a large degree those components will be impacted by Council's
suggestions, as well as the future goal =setting or visioning process that
Council may wish to participate in, along with all members of the
community. Mr. Stouder yielded to questions from the Council at this time.
Mayor Berndt stated this' is_ a,'great concept in that the intent is to
involve a large segment, of the community in - making these decisions.
Council member Barnett said his main concern is that this involves the
County and other cities presently involved in the urban' area. He asked
where the City stands in coordinating this with the County and Union Gap,
and if they',are contributing toward some of the expenditures that are
forecast for the next three years. Mr. Stouder reported that City staff
has been discussing these issues with 'County'' -staff "''f - :a ` pl
standpoint. Dennis Covell and Dan Hesse will be discussing the budget and
the work program in the near future. City staff has also been meeting with
Naches, Moxee and Selah to discuss the concept of reviewing the overall
area as an urban area, and how we might work together to share services and
costs. Council member Barnett asked what expenditures will be made in 1990
if Council approves this unbudgeted policy issue `today? Mr. 'Stouder
stated staff would develop more,detailed work programs and, budgets for
each 'of these elements,'and'bring ' suggestions for the' technical
support for those four chapters, and advertise for consultants to see if we
are in the ballpark in terms of cost. He said the visioning issue is
something that Council and other community members must provide guidance
for, realizing that the technical aspects of the plan will be driven by
that 'process and those ideas and goals. City Manager'Zais.commented :staff
cannot provide Mr. Barnett with a specific dollar amount at this point
because that is yet to be developed_. Discussion followed,about funding
sources' and Mr. Stouder commented that some' funding' has been identified
in current City funds and some federal funding is being held in the
Centennial fund for the drainage project. He said staff is also
submitting an application on December 15th to the State Department of
Community & Economic Development for funding for land use inventory. None
of these are committed in terms of contracts, but some are committed in
terms of general guidance. Council member Foy stated City and County
staffs were asked to prepare a list of items, currently in the Urban Plan
to be considered for change, review, modification, or heard at a public
meeting. Mr.' Foy, referred to the December 15, 1989 Joint Board meeting
agenda, noting that these items are not scheduled for discussion and he
asked why? Mr. Foy expressed concern' at` 'establishing a budget
for the planning effort when the other participants have riot made' a
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DECEMBER 9, 1989
commitment to funding. Mr. Stouder responded that staff is trying not to
restrict ourselves to the old ways of doing things, rather we are trying to
involve everyone in the decisions regarding the metropolitan area. He said
it was not his understanding that these issues were to be placed on the
December 15th agenda, however, that can be done.
Mayor Berndt directed Council to Exhibit.1, page. 1, to,begin the budget
wrap up session with the Finance Department's budget.
Finance
A. Proposal to add 1 full time equivalent Accounting Technician,
under -fill Budget Analyst position with an Accountant and reduce .75
full time equivalent Cashier to .5 full time equivalent.
It was MOVED BY BEAUCHAMP, SECONDED BY SIMS, TO APPROVE THIS PROPOSAL.
The motion carried by unanimous voice vote. •
Planning .
A. Proposal to reclassify Associate Planner position to Supervising .
Planner.
It was MOVED BY BARNETT, SECONDED BY SIMS, TO APPROVE THIS PROPOSAL.
The motion carried by unanimous. voice vote.
C. Street Vacation Ordinance Amendments -- Council Policy Issue Addition
Council member Barnett requested clarification prior to voting on this
issue. He referred to page 152 of the Preliminary Budget which states
the funds..,.derived from street vacations will be dedicated to the
Central Business District Fund and it was his .recollection that_
Council had decided the funds would .be directed to the General
Capital Improvement Fund which wtDuld allow the funds .to be' used
anywhere. City Manager Zais stated he made that suggestion, and it was
the general consensus of the Council at that particular, time•that the
funds be redirected as stated by Council member Barnett. Therefore,
it was MOVED BY BARNETT, SECONDED BY .BUCHANAN,. THAT 'THE. FUNDS BE
DIRECTED T0'THE GENERAL CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND.FOR USE DOWNTOWN OR
ANYWHERE FLSE. Council member,Foy asked if the unbudgeted item C on
page 29 is referring to saw item and is therefore, redundant.
City Manager Zais responded that item C is redundant and should not
have been included on page 29 of the Budget Wrap -Up Policy Issues.
The question was called for a vote on the motion. The motion carried
by unanimous voice vote.
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Legal
A. Modified proposal to expand prosecutorial services -- Add full time
Prosecutor in October 1990.
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It was MOVED BY BARNETT, SECONDED BY BEAUCHAMP, TO APPROVE THIS POLICY
ISSUE. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
Code Administration
A. Proposal to increase Weedy Lot Fees from $350 to $500 to offset the
cost of:clearing lots.
It was MOVED BY SIMS,. SECONDED BY FOY, TO APPROVE ISSUE.
Traffic Engineering
A. Proposal to promote an existing Traffic Tech II to an existing Traffic
Associate position. _ ,
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It was MOVED BY FOY, SECONDED BY BARNETT, TO TABLE PENDING THE
REORGANIZATION OF THE TRAFFIC' ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT. Mr. Foy stated
with the reorganization of Streets & Refuse Manager and the Traffic
Engineer's position, he believes this action is premature. The
question was called for the vote on the motion. The motion carried by
unanimous voice vote.
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DECEMBER 9,, 1989 .
Information Systems
A. Proposal to update the Five Year Data Processing Strategic Plan
It was MOVED .BY SIMS, SECONDED BY - BUCHANAN, TO APPROVE - THIS POLICY
ISSUE. The motion carried by 4 -2 voice vote. Barnett .and Foy voting
nay. .
B. Proposal to add 1 FTE Public Safety Programmer to handle the
ill programming needs. of the new Public Safety Records and Dispatching
Systems.
'It was MOVED BY BARNETT, - _ SECONDED BY BUCHANAN, -TOcAPPRO THIS POLICY
ISSUE. The motion carried by a unanimous voice vote.
Customer Services
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A. Proposal to increase monthly parking fees in City lots from $25 to $30
per month.
I't was MOVED BY FOY, - SECONDED BY SIMS:, . TO APPROVE THIS. POLICY ISSUE.
The motion carried by a unamimous voice vote.
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B. Proposal to acquire a new mail handling machine and include return
envelope with utility Bills. General costs,..would be_
by Water, Sewer, and Refuse utilities. Acquisition would provide
capability to include community service bulletins with billings..
It was MOVED BY .FOY, SECONDED BY SIMS, TO..APPROVE THIS POLICY ISSUE.
Unanimously carried by voice vote.
City Council
A. Proposal for City to join Chamber of Commerce as a corporate member.
(A $2;400'expenditure)
It was MOVED BY .BARNETT, SECONDED.:BY .BUCHANAN, TO . THIS POLICY
. ISSUE. ' Berndt initiated discussion regarding retroactive
reimbursement of membership fees to city employees who have joined the
. Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Zais commented he prefers the. City establish a'
corporate membership, and allow the individual employee the choice deciding
whether he /she wishes to join the Chamber Of Commerce. John Nicholson, 201
North 24th Avenue, questioned how the Chamber membership is a benefit to
the taxpayers? Council member Foy responded that the Chamber of Commerce
works with the City government on many issues involving the taxpayers.
City Manager Zais explained that outside agencies, such as the Chamber of
Conuuerce,'are needed to assess various projects and plans, 'i.e., the Water
and Sewer Comprehensive Plans. He said the Chamber of Commerce was active
in the issue to retain the City Manager /City Council form of government and
city staff has also been involved in the Chamber of Commerce program
"Leadership Yakima ". The Chamber has also been helpful in the past in
communicating the needs of the City,of ,Yakima to the legislators
regarding `room" - tax legi Council" member Beauchamp pointed out_.
that the Chamber of Commerce has been very instrumental - in bringing new
businesses and industry to the area through the efforts of New Vision, and
has worked hard to improve the economic profile of this community. Council
member Barnett pointed out that this is not the only organization to which
the City belongs, but if he had to make a choice on membership he would
III select the Chamber of Commerce. The question was called 'for a`vote on the
motion. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote; Council member Foy
abstaining since he is President of the Chamber of Commerce this year.
Mayor Berndt reiterated that Department Heads will no longer have to pay
an individual membership fee because they are covered under the City's
corporate membership.
Housing _ . a
A. Proposal to reorganize Housing Office staff and add 1 Full Time
Equivalent Accounting Technician. Planning staff would no longer be
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DECEMBER 9, 1989 •
charged to this budget. Total, cost of the proposed positio is
$27,386.
It was MOVED .BY :_FOY, " SECONDED "BY .SIMS,. TO APPROVE .THIS ".POLICY :ISSUE.
.The motion.carried'by unanimous voice vote.
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Cable TV
• A. Proposed to reclassify Cable'Coordinator position to a management
position. A $6,940 expenditure.
It was MOVED BY FOY, SECONDED BY BEAUCHAMP, Ta'APPROVE`'THIS ".: POLICY ISSUE.
The motion carried by 'unanimous voice vote.
Convention Center
A. Proposal to increase promotion fees paid to Visitors and Convention
Bureau from $30,000 to $50,000. •
It was MOVED BY BEAUCHAMP,:'SECONDED.BY.,FOY, TO_.APPROVE:THIS POLICY -ISSUE.
The motion carried by unaniniou's voice vote. ` ' ,` ..
B. Proposal to increase management fee paid to V & C by $12,000.
It was MOVED BY FOY, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN, .TO.APPROVE THIS POLICY
ISSUE. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote..
C. Yakima Center Study
It was MOVED ':BY'. FOY, SECONDED BY :BARNETT;: THAT THIS`': POLIC ".ISSUE BE
• DENIED." The motion failed by 3 -3 voice vote. Beauchamp, Berndt and
Buchanan voting nay. Council member Foy suggested this be readdressed at
a later date, stating it is not the study he is questioning, it is the
timing. He added he does not think we should approve a study prior to the
completion of other structures. Therefore, it was MOVED BY' FOY, SECONDED'.
. BY BARNEIT, TO'TABLE CENTER - EXPANSION :STUDY.UNTIL - ' BUDGET
CONSIDERATION: `:Beauchamp,,: Berndt and Buchanan .. voting r nay. ,Due_ to .a 3 -3
tie vote, Mayor Berndt stated' these funds will remain in the 1990 budget
and this issue will remain on the table for reconsideration at the 1991 •
budget presentation.
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Convention Center :Capital Improvement Fund
A. Proposal to acquire computer hardware and software to computerize
bookkeeping and event scheduling. Expenditure of $12,000.
It was MOVED BY FOY, SECONDED BY SIMS, ' , TO APPROVE .THIS POLICY ISSUE. The
motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
B. Proposal to add exterior lighting to the Convention Center.
Expenditure of $20,000.
It was MOVED BY FOY, . SECONDED BY 'SIMS TO .APPROVE THIS ::POLICY. ISSUE.. The
motion carried by unanimous voice vote. .
Parks & Recreation r "
A. Proposal to provide uniforms to full time Parks Maintenance staff.
(Expenditure of $7,607.)
It was MOVED BY SIMS,'SECONDED BY`BEAUCHAMP, TCLAPPROVE;THIS ISSUE.
Council member Foy stated he believes this is an item that -- should be
considered during contract' negotiations and not a matter for budget
consideration. Council member Sims stated he would like to implement this
for a year to see how it will work and if it is not successful, it can be
deleted. If it is part of the contract, it cannot be deleted. The
• question was :called for a :vote on the motion. The motion passed by 4 - -
voice vote; Barnett and Foy voting nay.._
B. Proposal to adjust Aquatics pay ranges to mitigate compression caused
by required increase in Federal minimum wage laws. (Expenditure of
$8,541.)
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It was MOVED BY FOY, SECONDED BY SIMS,_TO APPROVE THIS POLICY .ISSUE. The
motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
C. Proposal to replace two (2) .City Worker positions with two (2)
permanent part -time Lifeguard /Instructor positions. (Expenditure of
$3,708.)
It was MOVED BY.SIMS, SECONDED BY FOY, TO APPROVE THIS POLICY ISSUE. The
motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
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D. Policy issue for postponement of major repairs and reopening of Miller
Pool pending final decision of Comprehensive Expenditure of
$75,000 for repairs at Miller Pool are unbudgeted at this time. It was .
MOVED BY FOY, SECONDED BY. SIMS, TO APPROVE THIS POLICY ISSUE. The
motion carried by unanimous voice vote. -
E. Proposal to increase part -time Recreation'Leader position to full time
to offer new and expanded sports programs.
It 'was MOVED BY FOY, SECONDED 'BY SIMS, TO APPROVE. THIS POLICY ISSUE.
Council member Foy suggested authorizing the $2,000 spent for overtime and
try to obtain :a track record this summer to see if the new programs will
generate enough . revenue to pay for the full : time's position. r In:` they `r
discussion that followed, Parks Manager Dave Flaherty proposed filling the
position on a one year trial basis and reevaluating the issue next
year. Council member Barnett stated the City Manager's budget statement
was that no new programs would be offered and this policy issue contradicts
that statement. The motion was withdrawn by Council member Foy with the
approval of Council member Sims. It was then MOVED BY FOY, SECONDED BY
SIMS, TO APPROVE THE REQUEST. OF ITEM D WITH THE STIPULATION THAT IT IS FOR
ONE YEAR. The motion carried by 5 -1 voice vote; Barnett voting nay.
F. Proposal to reduce contracted maintenance to a 6 month contract from
the current 11 month and use existing ,staff for off season
maintenance.. Use savings .from contract reductions for.new plants and
repairs.
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It was MOVED -BY SIMS, SECONDED BY BEAUCHAMP, TO- APPROVE THIS POLICY ISSUE.
The motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
G. Proposal to hire a part -time Labor Helper to handle and assist with
grounds•maintenance,at Parks facilities & Fire Stations.
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It was MOVED BY FOY, SECONDED BY BARNE'1T, TO ' DENY THIS POLICY ISSUE. The..
motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
H. ,Council_added Policy_•Issue Request.-- shall the 2% "In Lieu of. Tax" to
Parks and Recreation be capped for future years at the 1990 levels of
$193,336.
It was MOVED BY.FOY, SECONDED..:BY :BARNETT TO APPROVE :.THIS •POL•ICV;ISSUE:.
Council member Beauchamp asked for clarification on this policy issue. City.
Manager Zais explained that two years ago Council enacted the "In Lieu of
Tax" which applies to water, sewer and refuse and provides for a tax
transfer to the Parks Fund. It was intended to be a revenue source that
would enhance the cash reserves of the Parks Fund, replace the funds lost
from previous revenue sharing funds for the cemetery subsidy. And
further, staff thought the need existed to add a tax source to Parks and
Recreation that would assist with the growth of inflation and offset some
of the fixed costs. Mr. Zais stated this represents only about 10% of the
total revenue. that goes to the Parks Fund. The Parks Fund cash balance is
in a less than satisfactory condition going into 1990. He pointed out that
this is a dollar cap. that will not allow.. more than $193,336 to be
transferred to the Parks Fund. Council member Barnett stated he
this cap be placed on the "In Lieu of Tax" to keep the cost of the utility
bills down•for those living near the poverty level or'below. He commented
that utilities are essentials and if..the tax continues to _escalate, the
lower income families will be unable to pay their utility bills. Council
member Buchanan pointed out that, in the past, caps have been removed due
to inflationary reasons. He said that the 2% "In Lieu of Tax" will still
apply to the utility bills but once the dollar cap is reached the revenue
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will be placed in other funds. He commented the tax was placed on the
utilities for and'Recreation needs and should be left open.- Mayor
Berndt agreed with Council member Buchanan and reminded Council that this
is not the time to start cutting Parks funding or programs because those
taxpayers with income problems are the ones in need of the Parks
facilities. She reminded Council that the new parks programs are, in
essence, a part of the anti -drug program by keeping the children busy in
the parks and keeping adults active in parks recreation programs. In the
discussion that .followed.City Manager Zais explained that in order. to cap
this at a certain dollar amount the ordinance will have to be amended on
the tax structure capping it at a fixed dollar amount at 2% and /or a
maximum'amount2:of +$193,336 otherwise the 2% continues to - flow the
General Fund :and.•it will increase proportionately with use. He said
this revenue increased over the 1989 level. and thoses funds are •being
transferred to the Parks. Fund to subsidize Tahoma Cemetery. John Nicholson,
201 North 24th Avenue, asked how the money is expended by the Parks
Department? Mayor Berndt explained that 2% of the gross utility tax goes
into the Parks Fund for expenditure and the Parks Department rruist submit a
yearly budget for Council's approval. She stated the increase derived from
the 2% "In Lieu of Tax" this year has been applied to subsidize Tahoma
Cemetery. It' was pointed out that if the proposal by Council member
Barnett is approved today there will be a reduction in the Parks &
Recreation services in 1991. Following further comments, the .question was
called for a .vote A on the . motion. The motion failed by a 3 -3 voice vote;
Berndt, Buchanan and Sims voting nay.
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Fire
A. Council added policy issue — lawn mower. ($400 expenditure.) .
Council member Foy stated he was not. _present at Tuesday's meeting_ to hear
the discussion regarding Item G under Parks & Recreation (Proposal to,hire
a part -time Labor Helper to handle and assist with grounds maintenance at
Parks facilities & Fire Stations) and he would like Code Manager Shampine
to address this issue today. Mr. Foy indicated Mr. Shampine had given up
an employee to handle the proposed work under Item G. Council member Foy
asked Mr. Shampine why he couldn't hire his employee back and let the
firefighters mow the laws at the fire stations? Mr. Shampine responded
that-dahlTheidone, however, , .that= :individual : works , forr_,the , Parks • Department.
most of the time, and that is why the position was proposed under the
Department. Mr. Shampine stated he still needs a person to take care of
the City owned lots in connection with the weed abatement program.
Following further comments, it was MOVED BY BUCHANAN, THAT:`ITEM G, UNDER
PARKS AND RECREATION, . ' BE : RECONSIDERED AND' THE.... PART -TIME . ,LABOR HELPER BE
HIRED. -Mr. .. Nicholson suggested negotiating with.:, the County
and County Probation Services to have some of the inmates perform these
tasks. Mayor Berndt explained that the Yakima Greenway tried this type of
program and it did not work. The .motion died .for.the lack of a second.
Mayor Berndt asked staff to bring back a proposal after the first of the
year with a recommendation of how this work can be accomplished. It was
MOVED BY FOY,.. SECONDED: BY:BUCHANAN.,`0 .TABLE THE - DECISION ON THE LAWN MOWER
. UNTIL .DECISION - ON, THE. WEEDY" LOT HELP .IS . DETERMINED.. The.. motion carried
by unanimous voice vote.
Streets '
It was the consensus of the Council to handle each of these items
separately. .
A. Proposal to increase the Street Break Inspector from .5 FTE to a full
time position, an increase in. personnel cost of about $17,800
annually. (A Budgeted amount of %30,542)
1. It was MOVED FOY,'SECONDED.BY•SIMS,. 10 .APPROVE THE. AMOUNT. BUDGETED
($30,542).. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
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2. It was MOVED:BTSIMS, SECONDEDIBY''BUCHANAN, TO.APPROVEkTHE:'UNBUDGETED
AMOUNT OF $10,500• FOR. THE.. VEHICLE. The .motion carried by (unanimous,
voice vote.
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3. It was MOVED BY BARNETT, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN, '10 APPROVE THE BUDGETED
AMOUNT OF $2,830 FOR MAINTENANCE AND OPERATION FOR ' THECHVERNEUI LEThe
motion carried by- unanimous voice vote.
Budgeted Option #1 Fully fund position. Residential Permit -- $75 flat fee
Utility Rate — .$75. _hourly fee; or. •
Option #3 as most recently recommended by staff for partial funding from
permit fees — balance from Street Fund Reserves Residential Permit -- $50
flat fee, Utility. rate -- ,$50.•per.hour. : .
Council member Foy stated he does not think Options Nos. 1 or 3 are
necessary because we have a current city ordinance with a $250 per day fine
for violations on street breaks. He said if the City would exercise the
$250 per day fine, neither option would be needed, and the City would have
the money to hire a full time Street Break Inspector. Council member
Barnett ;,;was .. in,.• agreement: with', M. )Foy. Mr. . Copeland, "stated if .the
inspector is hired to monitor street breaks that will generate some
revenue, but there is no way to know how much at this time. He suggested
reviewing this program each year to see how much revenue is generated and
adjust the rates accordingly.• Mr., Copeland recommended funding the
position and reviewing it next year based on the information available at
that time. Council member Buchanan pointed out that the City is using an
old rate schedule and should'consider adjusting those rates. accordingly.
Following further comments, it was MOVED BY BUCHANAN, TO ADOPT BUDGETED
OPTION #1. The notion died for lack of a second. Regarding, the $250 fine
City Attorney Vanek reminded Council that just because a person is fined
$250 does not mean that a judge will rule the fine has to be paid. He said
many times the offender goes to jail because he is unable to pay the fine.
Mr. Copeland commented that he has been involved in enforcing these types
of fines for about thirty years and has learned that it costs more to
collect the fine than it is worth. Mr. Copeland stated the intent of the .
fine is to keep the "bad guys" honest; it is not meant to be a revenue
source. Council member Foy suggested requiring a letter of financial
responsibility. Council member. Sims ; stated staff has indicated'that,with
the anticipation of economic activity that Option #3 would not leave us a
deficit of $8,000 but would probably bring us to a_ break even point.
Therefore, it was MOVED BY SIMS, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN, THAT OPTION #3 BE
APPROVED. Council member JBarnett pointed out that .staff .intends. to
increase the fees to the higher cost to cover the full cost 'of, the :.
inspections until they reach full funding. City Manager Zais pointed out
that each of these options show a break even, a shortfall, or subsidy
situation. He added that any shortfall would be made up from within the
existing street fund reserves. The question was called for a. vote on the
motion. The motion carried by a 4 -2 vote; Barnett and Foy voting nay.
B. Proposal to add 1 FTE Street Specialist II to assist with maintenance
of irrigation and water utility street cuts. Costs to be billed back
to utilities. ($28,229 expenditure.)
It was MOVED BY BEAUCHAMP, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN, 'TO APPROVE THIS POLICY
ISSUE. The motion carried by a 4 -2 voice vote; Barnett and Foy voting
nay.
Mayor Berndt declared a brief recess at this time, the meeting to reconvene
at 11:00 A.M.
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Fire Capital
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A. Proposal to • purchase a replacement for 17 year old pumper.. .
(Expenditure of $200,000.)
It was MOVED BY BUCHANAN, SECONDED BY BEAUCHAMP, 10.APPROVE THIS POLICY
ISSUE. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
B. Council added Policy Issue request - Proposal. to Purchase MERV.
.(Expenditure of $60,000.)
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It was MOVED BY BUCHANAN, SECONDED BY SIMS, TO APPROVE THIS POLICY ISSUE.
The motion carried by 5 - voice vote; Foy voting nay.
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DECEMBER 9, 1989
Transit Fund "
A. Proposal to provide impact payments for Street Maintenance efforts.
($79,552 expenditure.)
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It was MOVED BY. BEAUCHAMP, SECONDED . -BY BUCHANAN,- APPROVE THIS..POLICY
ISSUE. Council member Barnett indicated he is opposed to this ,because he
believes it 'ist:an improper use of Transit funds. He. said if .Council is
going to take:funds out of Transit then we have an obligation -to reduce.thei
3 mil tax. The question was called :.for a vote on-the-motion.: The. motion
carried by a 4 -2 voice vote; Barnett and Foy voting nay.
B. Proposal to add 1 FTE Dispatcher position to alleviate .required
crossover of Transit Operators to handle work load. (Expenditure of
$30,328.)
It was MOVED BY..BUCHANAN,.': BY., SIMS., TO, APPROVE, THIS POLICY. ISSUE.
The motion carried by a 4 -2 voice vote; Barnett and Foy. voting nay.
C. Proposal :to::add a FTE Route Supervisor position to reduce burden on
Operations Supervisor. Operations Supervisor not able to accomplish
all of duties assigned. (Expenditure of $30,853.)
It was MOVED BY :,SIMS., "SECONDED BY .BUCHANAN,. ;TO APPROVE' .THIS ON :.,A ONE YEAR
. .position.. The motion .carried by a 5- 1.:voice vote; Barnett voting any.
Refuse
Council member Barnett.asked that these options be considered separately.
This was the consensus of the Council:
A. Proposal to implement a rate increase for residential can and yard
service. Option #1 Budgeted - 8% (can) 3% (Bin) 1/1/90.
It was VED'BY :BUCHANAN, SECONDED: :BY . SIMS,: ,.110 APPROVE. OPTION:. #.1.. FOR .1990.
The motion carried by .unanimous voice vote. Option., #1 Budget.. 8% (Can)•
3% (Bin) 1/1/91.
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It was .MOVED BY BUCHANAN: 'TO:. APPROVE.' The. motion - .died . for .lack of a. .
second. clarification purposes, City.Manager Zais indicated staff will
want Council to reconsider this mid -year of 1990 in light of this decision,
because of -the timeframe, Council. may need more time to consider this.
Water . .
A. Proposal to replace steel water main on Lincoln Avenue.
B. Proposal to continue the large Water Meter Replacement Project.
C. Proposal to acquire a service vehicle for use in the Cross Connection
Control and Large Meter Replacement.'Program. :
D. Proposal to conduct a pilot study on corrosion control options and
prepare a plan of implementation.
E. Proposal to replace or alter existing large water meters for combined .
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fire and domestic water service.
.It was MOVED BY .:BUCHANAN,. SECONDED' BY"SIMS, TO:APPROVE A:THROUGH E OF
. . . THE WATER BUDGET.. The m tion.Carried by unanimous voice .vote.
F. Water Treatment plant Study Filtration System Improvements — $25,000
-foci - study band $175; 000 construct•ion:+ The $1754000 'is `.r_ being , requested
to be shifted from the Contact Basin expenditure authorizations.ik:AJ
initially approved in 1989.
Following a brief discussion about the construction cost, it was MOVED BY
FOY, SECONDED BY.BARNETT, TO TABLE -THIS ISSUE'UNTIL BACK. The
motion .carried -by a 4 -2 voice- tVote; :Berndt and Buchanan _voting. nay..' . .
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DECEMBER 9, 1989
•
Sewer . .
A. Proposal to add 1 FTE 'Industrial Maintenance Mechanic grid 1 FTE''
Industrial Maintenance Worker to maintain added $10,000,000 of
equipment. Staff to come on line during the last third of. 19,90. The -
annualized impact of these additions amount to`'$52,500. (Expenditure
of $18,000)
It was MOVED BY FOY, SECONDED BY SIMS, TO APPROVE THIS POLICY ISSUE. The
motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
Public Works Administration
It was the consensus of the Council that this be considered separately, as
requested by Council member Barnett.
Proposal to create a FTE Safety and'Training,Officer position with 1 FTE DA.
III support staff to serve Public Works Diviions' needs:' '
It was MOVED BY FOY, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN; TO APPROVE THE TRAINING OFFICER
POSITION. The motion carried by 5 -1 voice vote; Barnett voting nay.
It was MOVED BY BUCHANAN, SECONDED BY 'SIMS, TO APPROVE THE DEPARTMENT
ASSISTANT III.POSITION.' The motion carried by 4 -2 voice vote; Barnett and
Foy voting nay.
Proposal` to develop an Information Plan to" foster improved public'
relations. (Non personnel expenditure of $6,733.)
It was MOVED BY SIMS, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN, TO APPROVE THIS POLICY ISSUE.
Council member Foy stated he will vote no on this because Council has
already authorized the purchase of a system that will allow informational '
inserting, and he believes the machine should be used. He said there is
already a newsletter that meets the internal needs of the City. Council
member Sims pointed out that the distinction is the delivery system versus
the collation of that information. The question was called for a vote on
the motion. The motion carried by a 4 -2 voice vote; Barnett and Foy voting
nay. i...
C. Proposal to add 1 FTE Custodian to assist with maintenance of the City
Shops and 'other Public Works Facilities, including Senior Center.` " '
(Expenditure of $20,776.)
It was MOVED BY SIMS, SECONDED BY FOY, TO APPROVE THIS POLICY ISSUE. The
motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
Budget Travel Expense Summary -- Revised I
General Fund:
Mayor Berndt referred to page 11 which contains the revised budgeted travel
expense summary and asked for Council direction. It was MOVED BY BARNETT,
SECONDED BY FOY, TO MAINTAIN TRAVEL EXPENSES AT THE 1989 ESTIMATED LEVEL,
WITH THE CITY MANAGER AUTHORIZED TO SHIFT THE FUNDS. The motion failed by
a 3 -3 voice vote;_ , Berndt, Buchanan and Sims voting, ,nay. , City Manager Zais
commented about i 1990' travel expense budget, stating' the Police'
Legal Department increases are driven by the law and justice enhancement' •
program that was initiated mid -year. He said the other special requests
dealt with particular needs in Fire, Purchasing and Engineering. Mr. Zais
stated restraint was shown with respect to the other budgets to keep those
at the'1989 amended budget level. Mr. Barnett voiced concern at the rapid
increase in government, adding that in a two year period there was a 31':5%
increase in the general fund for travel.
Unbudgeted Priority Policy,Issues
• Police °
•
A. Proposal to implement Phase B of Law and Justice Project - Police
Station and Minimum Security Station and Minimum Security Holding
Facility. (Capital Costs $19,200,000.)
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DECEMBER 9, 1989
It was MOVED BY" SECONDED BY TO .ENDORSE THE CONCEPT AND
PURSUIT. OF: STATE/FEDERL: GRANTS AT.. THIS :TIME, ".The . motion :carried by
unanimous voice vote. Council member .Barnett commented that he was
disturbed because the AWC Legislative Committee gave new jail space a. "D"
priority and he is curious about how much support the City really has on
the Law & Justice proposal. Discussion ensued about the need, for
representation at the AWC meetings so the City will be able to voice our
concerns. Council member ,Buchanan emphasized that it is imperative that
the City Council representative" be` present these meetings - to "voice the
City's concerns if the City of Yakima is going to have any impact upon AWC
issues.
B. Proposal to implement operations portion of Phase B Law and Justice
Project.
It was MOVED BY BARNE'iT, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN,, TO ENDORSE THE CONCEPT AND
. PURSUIT OF NEW STATE.FUNDING AT THIS 'TIME. The motion carried by unanimous
voice vote.
C. 'Proposal .to' Finance ` Unfunded' Police - Pension' and' Medical ''Costs . ' in
excess of current contribution levels as determined by present value
of actuarily determined liability..
It was MOVED BY BARNETT, :SECONDED BY FOY, TO REQUEST ADJUSTMENT'FOR
1990: AND SUBSEQUENT "`YEARS ' ONLY IF A NEW' `REVENUE SOURCE. IS '.OBTAINED IN THE .
• FUTURE; OTHERWISE ` MAINTAIN CURRENT - .'AND PAYMENTS BASED' "UPON PROJECTED
YEARLY COSTS. . The motion carried by unanimous voice vote..
Code Administration , • ,
A. Proposal to participate in Yakima Rebound Plus in partnership to rid_
neighborhoods of drug infested, dilapidated and, abandoned buildings
that have led to neighborhood decline.
Council member Barnett asked where the .local public funds will be coming
from ?`Assistant'City'Manager Sto`uder'stated that is unknown at this time
and the amount of local funds will depend upon how much state and federal
funds are contributed toward the project. It was MOVED BY FOY, SECONDED BY
BUCHANAN, THAT WE ENDORSE: :THE CONCEPT. OF REBOUND :PLUS PENDING RESOLUTION OF
THE DOLLARS.. The. motion, carried by unanimous Voice vote.
Planning
A. Proposal a City =wide Comprehensive Land Use'P1an toSinclude
Parks, Drainage and Transit components (Phased over three years). It
was MOVED BY FOY,. SECONDED:BY BARNETT,.10 APPROVE THE CONCEPT AND
AUTHORIZE.PREPARATION OF 'DETAILED 'WORK .SCHEDULE TO' " INCLUDE REQUESTS
FOR RFP ON .CONSULTANT: ;The motion carried by unanimous Voice. vote.
Police
D. .Proposal to , :acquire an ,. Emergency Response,.. Trailer for ERT,. Hostage
Negotiation's and Other. Units. k' ' ' '"
It was MOVED BY BARNETT,'SECONDED BY FOY; TO APPROVE. THIS'.UNBUDGETED POLICY
ISSUE. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
Equipment Emergency Response Team Vehicle -- Council Request.
It was MOVEDBYIFOY, TO - EQUIP: AN RE TEAM'
. VEHICLE. The motion :carried by unanimous voice vote.
E. A Proposal to replace the filing system in the Police Records Bureau
I.t was MOVED' BY FOY,, .SECONDED BY ".SIMS, T0_ APPROVE THIS UNBUDGETED POLICY
. ISSUE. The'motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
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DECEMBER 9, 1.989 -
356
WO
Planni • ,
B. Modified Proposed Zoning and Subdivision Fee update as supported by
CWHBA, and the Board of Realtors.
Expenditure proposal for use of the estimated increase -- upgrade
computercapabilities as outlined in the November 21, 1989
memorandum. If approved, budgeted in Information Systems.
It was MOVED BY.FOY, SECONDED. BY.SIMS, TO APPROVE BOTH PARTS (revenue and
expenditure) OF THIS UNBUDGETED POLICY ISSUE. The motion carried by
unanimous voice vote.
C. Street Vacation Ordinance Amendments — Council Policy Issue.
Action was taken on. this under Planning -(Page 2 of the.Budget Wrap -Up •
Policy Issues.),
Code Administration
B. Proposal to move .5 FTE DA II to Planning and delete temporary DA II
and City Worker IV positions used for Weed Abatement and replace with
1/2 time permanent part -time DA II.
Code Manager Bob Shampine explained that the proposal is to take the
current half time person that the Code Department shares with the•Planning
Department and give that person to Planning full time. He said he would
delete two positions out of his budget and add one half time .person. It
was MOVED BY BARNET, SECONDED BY'.FOY,, TO APPROVE THIS PROPOSAL. The
motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
Fire
A. Proposal to renegotiate City /County /Airport Agreement to provide for
111 cost sharing of the Airport Fire Station Operations.
•
It was moved by FOY, SECONDED BY SIMS, .TO APPROVE THHIS UNBUDGETED POLICY
ISSUE. The motion carried by 5 -1 voice vote; Buchanan voting nay.
Traffic Engineeri
B. Proposal for outside agencies to contract for full: cost of Traffic - '
Engineering Services provided or discontinue services.
It was MOVED BY FOY, SECONDED BY BARNETT, TO DISCONTINUE SERVICE OUTSIDE
AGENCIES, EXCEPT FOR' SERVICE TO THE AIRPORT' AND :JOINT'. CITY /COUNTY
INTERSECTIONS. The motion carried by 4 -2 voice vote. Berndt and Sims
voting nay. •
_
•
Engineering
A. Browne Avenue Repairs -- Council request.
It was MOVED BY-FOY, SECONDED BY BARNETT TO APPROVE THIS REQUEST. City
Manager Zais explained that there is about.$33,000 that.will be, reallocated
for this project and the balance will be taken from an interfund , loan. ,
The motion carried'by unanimous voice vote. ,
Capitol Theatre ..,
•
A. Proposal to identify a new resource to increase O &M support for
Capitol Theatre.
Mayor Berndt stated this requires no action because Capitol Theatre staff
was not ready to make a specific request.
Parks and Recreation -
H. Proposal to add a Water Slide at Franklin Pool. ($65,000
Expenditure.) .
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DECEMBER 9, 1989
It- was MOVED BY SIMS, SECONDED BY: BUCHANAN, TO. APPROVE :.`.THE ODNCEPT TO ALLUAT
PARKS TO SEEK PUBLIC/ CORPORATE.'.: SPONSORSHIPS: :'OF'.THE: ::WATER ::.SLIDE. Council '
member Barnett stated approval.of this item will possibly mean :an increase
in .-fees and personnel: The question was called for - a - :vote: on -the. motion.
The motion carried by 5 -1 voice vote; Barnett voting nay. .
Mayor Berndt asked Council to take action on the Finance issue on page 33
prior to completing the remaining portion of the unbudgeted policy issue.
This was the general consensus of the Council.
Finance (Page 33)
A. Council requested proposal to charge a utility tax on private water
association /companies.
It was MOVED BY .SIMS, SECONDED. BY BUCHANAN,_10 ADOPT.A.6 %.TAX IN..1990'AND A
12 %.. TAX IN ; 1991:_ ON - PRIVATE" WATER .COMPANIES _OPERATING .WITHIN' "THE CITY OF
YAKIMA.. The motion carried by 5 -1 voice vote; Barnett. voting :nay. Council
member Barnett explained that he would have voted for the 6% increase
1990 but he is not in favor of raising it to 12% in a two year period.
City Manager Zais asked Council for direction as to where the money should
be applied. It was the general consensus of the Council that the money be
placed in the General Fund.
Parks & Recreation (Page 31)
I. Proposal to participate in funding ArtsVan Program provided by Allied
Arts Council ($8,000 Expenditure)
It was MCVED'BY.:SIMS, :SECONDED.:BY FOY,: :1 - APPROVE FUNDING` REQUESTED FOR THE
- ALLIED .ARTSVAN :PROGRAM. Mayor .Berndt asked Mr. Flaherty. if the City's
Program addressed more children within the City of Yakima than does the
Allied ArtsVan program. Mr. Flaherty stated the Allied ArtsVan goes to
more places than just the four City parks, however, he does not have any
information on how many children are served by this program. Mr. Flaherty
stated it is his understanding that the $8,000 is only to be used for
programs inside the City limits.. Following .a brief discussion on the
source of funding for this program, It was MOVED BY FOY, SECONDED BY SIMS, j:
TO AMEND THE.: MOTION: ` TO STATE THAT THE: FUND6 .. BE_ . TAKEN :::FROM THE GENERAL
.FUND. The _question.: was called for. on the amendment, ,The.. motion ..carried by
5 -1 voice vote; Barnett voting nay. The".question was called for a vote on
the motion. as•- amended..The motion carried by a voice vote; Berndt and
Barnett voting nay. Mayor Berndt explained thatFshe voted no because she
would like to have changed the amount.
J. Request to fund'Sunfair .Festival costs, $10,000 a year for five
years.
It.was MOVED BY_BUCHANAN, :BY `FOY,' TO APPROVE:. THIS REQUEST. Under
discussion, Mayor Berndt stated she is uncomfortable with five. years and
she is not convinced of the amount, however, she feels that City staff
should be working with the Sunfair Festival representatives and that this
should somehow be tied to the Visitors and Convention Bureau. She
commented it .certain'ly. is -not a :Parks • program....It Was :MOVED BY• : FOY -
SECONDED BY. :BUCHANAN;. TAD; AMEND THE 'MOTION TO APPROVE" - THE" FUNDING. FORA ONE
YEAR PERIOD. The amendment carried by unanimous voice vote. It. was MOVED
BY FOY, SECONDED" BY ". SIMS, "' 10 : AMEND- THE : - M TION. FURTHER" SO THAT _THE FUNDS
• WILL BE TAKEN: 'FROM - THE::GENERAL. FUND. The notion .carried . by .unanimous voice
vote. The question was called for _: a _: vote ::on • . the° ".notion, :as amended. The
motion carried by unanimous voice vote., Mayor Berndt .requested that the
Planning Department work with Kathy Coffee, General Manager of the
Yakima Visitors and Convention Center, to incorporate the Sunfair Festival
as a part of the City's tourism industry.
Streets
C. Proposal to add three Temporary labor positions to assist crews during
peak spring and summer seasons.
It was MOVED BY FOY, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN,. TO APPROVE THIS .REQUEST. The
motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
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• .. 35 /3
DECEMBER 9',.1989
D. Council Sidewalk Program Request
Proposal to fund an enhanced sidewalk repair /replacement program — staff
recolmended Option #6.
It was MOVED BY " BARNETT;. SECONDED BY FOY, TO .APPROVE OPTION #7.
Discussion ensued on Option . #6 and #7 as listed on. page 63,, of _the. Budget,
Wrap- up.Policy issues. (Option #6 - City- imposed Repairs /Assessment of Full
Costs to Property Owners is as follows: This program would involve .
procedures very similar to those used in weedy 'lot abatement. The
property owner would receive a notice explaining the problem, what must be
done to correct it, the allotted time in which it must be corrected, and
what steps the City will take if it is not corrected within the allotted
time. If the sidewalk is not corrected within the specified time, the
Council would, by resolution, be able to authorize and direct the Public
Works Director to bring the sidewalk into compliance with City forces. or
with contracted forces. The total costs of sidewalk repair would be
assessed directly to the property owner, as permitted by State law. The .
full -time Street Inspector would be able to conduct the periodic
inspections and,generate the notices of deficiency...
Option #7 - Continuation of Current 50 -50 Sidewalk Program: This •final
option would be to continue the current program in which City forces
provide the labor for sidewalk repairs, and the property owners .provide the
needed materials. The City maintains a list of the names of property
owners interested in participating in the program; as time permits, City
forces repair the damaged sidewalks, Street Fund resources are used to
fund the labor used in the program.
•
Mr. Copeland added that when 'staff reviewed the programs' of other
communities they found that there are various significant liabilities
involved in getting into various programs. He stated a program whereby the
City does a partial abatement program will invite problems. Mr. Copeland
stated in reviewing programs of other cities, staff found that they are
III responding to places where there has been a fall due to damaged sidewalks,
etc. He said it was pointed out to staff that once the City implements
this program the City assumes the responsibility of the problems. Council
members Buchanan, Barnett and Berndt expressed concerns about implementing
a program because of the difficulty of forcing citizens to make repairs to
the sidewalk as well as sufficient funding for the . 50 -50 •program.
Following further discussion of the possible ramifications of implementing
such a program, it was MOVED BY FOY, SECONDED BY BARNETT, `TO TABLE'THIS
ISSUE. The motion carried by a 4 -2 voice vote; Berndt and Sims voting
nay. .
This concluded discussion of the Budget Wrap -Up Policy Issues. Mayor
Berndt recognized Preston Shepherd, [Manager of Nob Hill Water Association,
who addressed Council regarding the position statement pertaining to the
proposed business and occupation tax. Mr. Shepherd read this position
statement into the record as follows:
"Since it's inception 'in 1908, Nob Hill Water Association has existed as a
private, non - profit, tax exempt organization, not subject to the
jurisdiction of the Washington State Utilities and Transportation
Commission (UTC) . .
•
On a previous occasion in 1986, we appeared before the. Supreme Court of
the State of Washington to defend this position and we prevailed.
III We have been advised by our Company Attorney, Terry Brooks, that in his
opinion a proposal being considered by the City of Yakima to impose a
Business and Occupation tax on Nob Hill Water Association is inappropriate
and illegal. lib feel that it is our responsibility to protect our
membership by opposing this proposed tax.
The City should be advised of our position and our resolve in this matter.
We will oppose this tax and we will take it through the court system and
once again appear before the State Supreme Court if necessary.
We hope that the Council will give this matter proper consideration and
arrive at an appropriate decision."
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339
DECEMBER 9, 1989
The position paper was signed by the Board of Nob Hill Water Association:
Roy Johnson, President, Dr. Melvin Carlson, Vice President, Charles
Criddle, Secretary, William Ryan, Board Member and John Fairbrook, Board
Member.
The business before , the Council 'having been concluded, it was MOVED BY
FOY, SECONDED BY.BUCHANAN, TO. DIRECT THE CITY MANAGER AND CITY-ATTORNEY TO
BRING IN THE FINAL BUDGET, .AS.AMENDED TODAY,... FOR ADOPTION AT_ THE DECEMBER
19, 1989. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote..
READ AND CERTIFIED ACCURATE BY:
O. CIL MEMBER DATHJ
COU ' L MEf•7B - I DATE
ATTEST:
CITY CLERK / MAYOR
Minutes prepared by Deputy City Clerk, Barbara J. Toney, CMC.
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