HomeMy WebLinkAbout06/02/1992 Study Session / Business Meeting •
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CITY OF YAKIMA, WASHINGTON
JUNE 2, 1992
STUDY SESSION /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 Pat Berndt, presiding,
Councilmembers Clarence Barnett (absent after 5:00 P.M.), Henry
Beauchamp (absent after 4:45 P.M.), Bill Skip Semon and Bernard
Sims present on roll call. Councilmember Lynn Buchanan absent and
excused. City Manager Zais, City Attorney Vanek, City Clerk Roberts and
Clerk Harris also present.
2. INVOCATION /PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Councilmember Semon.
3. OPEN DISCUSSION FOR THE GOOD OF THE ORDER
Mayor Berndt welcomed County Commissioners Deccio, Klarich and Ingham,
who were present for the presentation by Larry Petry.
Val Finlayson, Chairman of the Visioning 2010 Committee, and Committee
member Dick Anderwald presented the City with a plaque containing the
visioning document and the signatures of all the upper valley city and
county leaders adopting the document. A plaque will be presented to
each upper valley city. Mr. Anderwald reported that the visioning
report is being put into immediate use. Mayor Berndt thanked
Mr. Finlayson and announced that he will be moving out of Washington on
June 12th. Mr. Finlayson has accepted a position as Executive Director
of Utah Partnership. Commissioner Deccio thanked Mr. Finlayson for his
participation on the Visioning Committee in Yakima County.
Dave Flaherty, Parks and Recreation Manager, presented the City an award
given by the Governor for volunteer service by the Yakima Gang
Prevention /Intervention Coalition Program. Mr. Flaherty believes the
Coalition has made a positive impact in the community in the past year.
Councilmember Beauchamp thanked everyone for their help and said he felt
lives have actually been saved. Mayor Berndt thanked Captain Don Blesio
and Mr. Flaherty for their work. Mr. Flaherty reviewed the summer
programs, the Adopt -A -Park Program and asked for volunteers for this
program.
4. CONSENT AGENDA
Mayor Berndt referred to the items placed on the Consent Agenda,
questioning whether there were any additions or deletions from either
Councilmembers or citizens present. The City Clerk then read the
Consent Agenda items, including resolutions and ordinances by title.
It was the consensus of the Council to remove Items Nos 9 and 16. It
was MOVED BY SIMS, SECONDED BY SEMON, THAT THE CONSENT AGENDA, AS
AMENDED, BE ADOPTED. The motion carried by unanimous roll call vote.
(Subsequent paragraphs preceded by an asterisk ( *) indicate items on the
Consent Agenda handled under one motion without further discussion.)
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*5. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE APRIL 28 AND MAY 5, 1992 BUSINESS
MEETINGS
The Council minutes of the April 28 and May 5, 1992 Business meetings
were approved, having been duly certified accurate by two Councilmembers
and no one present wishing to have said minutes read publicly.
6. AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION
None.
7. PRESENTATION BY LARRY PETRY, YAKIMA SCHOOL DISTRICT, ON HISPANIC
DEMOGRAPHICS
Superintendent of Yakima School District, Larry Petry, spoke regarding
the demographics of the District. Mr. Petry related the overcrowding
and problems in the schools. He believes these are issues which must
be solved by community involvement and action. There are 13,000
students in the Yakima School District. He addressed economy, jobs,
quality of life, and courage to act. Yakima has the lowest median
household income in the County. Governmental agencies and hospitals,
which are tax -users rather than tax payers are the largest employers in
the area. Mr. Petry agrees with the County that the census count was
at least 7,000 citizens less than usual. Yakima has an urgent need for
decent and affordable housing. De -facto spot zoning was discussed. Tax
levy differences between the Seattle area and Yakima was discussed,
showing a need for more industry. Between 1984 and 1991 the Yakima
School District has grown an average of 150 -250 students a year. One
option he suggested was the possibility of year around schools. A
proposed school day of 7:30 A.M. to 7:30 P.M. with students going to
separate sessions is a possibility. In- migration shows a growth of over
800 students in the K -12 grades for the 1991 -92 school year. The
enrollment bulges in other school districts were discussed, with a two
percent growth per year. Currently thirty -six percent of the students
come from single parent homes and have special needs. Nearly eighty
percent of gang members come from single parent homes, most without a
male figure in the home. He thanked the City Police Department, Parks
and Recreation, YMCA and YWCA for the help they have been. Gang related
crimes were cut by 2/3 in one year in the area where programs were
initiated. The impact of migrant children on the reality of testing and
teaching the children was discussed; the constant moving takes a toll.
Minority children make up forty -four percent of the elementary school
population, in some schools it is higher. Integration is an issue being
worked on, with racially isolated schools being a reality at the time.
Yakima School District is establishing quality programs to attract
students to the schools with problems. Last year Adams School was
eighty -five percent minority, but is becoming more balanced now because
of the excellent Montessori programs being offered. Mr. Petry's 6 year
old son rides 45 minutes on a bus to attend Adams. Twelve percent of
the children do not speak English; the school has a program which
teaches English if they can remain in the school for 2 years. Forty -
eight percent of the children are on free or reduced lunches, which
means they are at the Federal poverty level. The Federal poverty level
is $16,000 annual income for family of four. Drug and alcohol use has
been reduced with help of the excellent City Police Department, but
there is still a serious problem. Alcohol is a little below the
national level at eighty -eight percent. Marijuana use is at the
national average, however the use of cocaine is fifty percent above the
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national average. This is true in all the area schools, including the
West Valley schools. Dropout rate is only seven percent; Hispanic
dropouts have been lowered, due to an updated credit program and a
migrant night school. Yakima School District has the largest, per
capita, alternative program in the State. Almost 800 students attend
an alternative program; several of these students have been outstanding
graduates. Bob Alexander, Administrative Assistant, asked Mr. Petry to
mention the Task Force being formed to get community involvement from
parents, students, businesses, and interested citizens to look at this
information and help with a design on dealing with the growth and
demographics within the next 20 years. He asked for any interested
persons to call Mr. Alexander at the Yakima School Superintendent's
office. Mr. Petry left material for the Council and public to review.
Mayor Berndt commented that the Steering Committee might wish to discuss
this issue as it relates to housing.
Mayor Berndt called for a recess at 3:02 P.M. for the equipment to be
removed from the chambers. The meeting reconvened at 3:08 P.M. Mayor
Berndt received a request to consider Item No. 12 at this time. There
being no objection, it was considered out of order.
12. CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING LEGAL PROCEEDINGS FOR THE
CONDEMNATION AND ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY IN VICINITY OF TIETON DRIVE AND
32ND AVENUE (LE FORS PROPERTY - CONTINUED FROM APRIL 26, 1992)
By request this Item was considered out of order after Item No. 7.
Director of Engineering and Utilities Covell explained the Tieton Drive
and 32nd Avenue project. This project was started in 1986, to widen the
lanes in the intersection and replace the antique signals. This project
received funding in 1989 with a Public Works Trust Fund Loan.
Mr. Covell asked the Council to authorize eminent domain and
condemnation proceedings so project can proceed on schedule. He
stated the possibility o €' "losing if this project does not
proceed. Mr. Covell remarked he has been contacted by several citizens
concerned about 32nd Avenue being reconstructed. He assured them this
project is for the intersection only and that 32nd Avenue is not on the
Six Year Transportation Improvement Plan. It will be at least ten years
before any improvements will be made on the length of 32nd Avenue.
Councilmember Barnett asked if the appraisal on the Lefors property has
been obtained. Mr. Covell replied Mrs. Lefors informed him she has not
been able to retain the appraiser she wants. He also asked about the
time limit, which Mr. Covell explained requires 30 days. In answer to
Councilmember Brado's question, Mr. Covell explained the street would
come up to the north edge of the north driveway. Mr. Covell explained
the retaining wall and the sidewalk proposed for the safety of school
children.
Denny Granstrand, 901 S. 32nd Avenue, spoke to the issue of the
intersection and his opinion was to widen the lanes on Tieton to 12
feet, provide better sidewalks, maintain the curbs, and improve the
traffic lights. He feels widening the lanes on 32nd Avenue will cause
additional problems with traffic flow. He is concerned for the safety
of school children using the area. Councilmember Barnett agreed that
32nd Avenue should not be widened and made any busier than it already
is.
Judy Lefors, 602 S. 32nd Avenue, is the owner of two lots in the
proposed condemnation area. Mrs. Lefors remarked that the appraisal on
her property cost $3,600 and was advised by her attorney that she should
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not give this information to the City. Her concern is for her property
being devalued and the home business of Dr. Lefors being adversely
affected. Councilmember Brado concurs with the Lefors' that the City's
offer for the property is unfair.
Carol Matherson, 1114 S. 32nd Avenue, expressed her concern for the
safety of the Nob Hill School children. She does not want to see
improvements on 32nd Avenue which would increase traffic. Mayor Berndt
explained the process of financial assistance for street improvements.
Ms. Matherson also requested additional public notice for these types
of proposals, in the future.
Dr. Laurie Brion, 1009 S. 31st Avenue, expressed her opinion that this
is not an intersection that requires a free right turn lane. She
inquired about the accident history at this intersection.
Paul Martin, 1018 S. 32nd Avenue, stated this intersection shouldn't be
improved just because the City has the money to do it. He stated the
money is needed for the street between Nob Hill Blvd. and Tieton Drive;
we don't need another busy major arterial.
Bill Hambelton, 615 S. 32nd Avenue, expressed his concern over right -of-
ways and trees being lost for streets to be widened. He does not see
a need for 32nd Avenue to be improved. He was told by staff that there
is no immediate plans to widen 32nd Avenue.
Lynn Krogman, 1017 S. 32nd Avenue, also expressed concern for any
improvements on 32nd Avenue and asked for more notice when the projects
are being considered. -
Dave Palmer, 907 S. 32nd Avenue, recalled 32nd Avenue being a gravel
road in the past. He is not against improvements in City streets.
However, he feels there should be less impact on established
neighborhoods.
Wayne Pettyjohn, 206 S. 32nd Avenue, discussed the possibility of the
money being funded for that area to be returned to the State to be used
in other areas. He was told if the money was not used, it would be lost
to the Yakima area.
Following further discussion, it was MOVED BY SEMON, SECONDED BY SIMS,
TO DIRECT ENGINEERING TO MODIFY THE PROJECT DESIGN TO KEEP THE CURRENT
TURNING RADIUS AT 32ND AVENUE AND TIETON DRIVE. The motion carried by
4 -2 roll call vote, Barnett and Brado voting nay; Buchanan absent.
Ordinance No. 3457 having been read by title, it was MOVED BY SIMS,
SECONDED BY SEMON, THAT THE ORDINANCE BE PASSED. The motion carried by
4 -2 roll call vote, Barnett and Brado voting nay; Buchanan absent.
Mrs. Lefors asked for Mr. Covell to process the necessary information
to her as soon as possible.
ORDINANCE NO. 3457, AN ORDINANCE authorizing and directing the law firm
of Lyon, Beaulaurier, Weigand, Suko & Gustafson to institute and
prosecute legal proceedings for the condemnation and acquisition of real
property for the Tieton Drive and 32nd Avenue Intersection Improvement
Project; providing for the condemnation and taking of such real property
and declaring the condemnation and taking thereof to be necessary for
a public use required by the public interests; directing that
compensation for such taking be paid from fund number 342 - Public Works
Trust Fund of the City of Yakima.
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June 2, 1992.
8. STATUS REPORT ON METRO PLAN /GMA MAPPING PROJECT
The staff displayed computer generated maps on all of the walls in the
Council Chambers, conference room, hallway, and the lobby. The maps
were colorful and informative. Community and Economic Development
Director Rice reviewed the Visioning 2010 and the Growth Management Act,
as related to mapping, and introduced Rick Pettyjohn, Information
Systems Manager. Mr. Pettyjohn thanked the Council for the opportunity
to present the new technology and advanced mapping system which is now
available. He introduced and thanked Tom Sellsted, Joan Davenport, John
Elsden, and Corrine choy for their help in making this mapping project
successful. A few of the maps on display were discussed.
9. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION DISSOLVING IRRIGATION DISTRICT NO. 757
Ty Wick, Water and Irrigation Supervisor, reviewed the resolution with
the Council and was available for questions.
John Klingele, 1312 W. Walnut, expressed his concern that this water
would not be available for use by the Department of Transportation (DOT)
for the gateway entrance beautification project. He was also concerned
about river pollution from the drains in the City.
Resolution No. D -6125 having been read by title, it was MOVED BY SIMS,
SECONDED BY SEMON, TO ADOPT THE RESOLUTION. The motion carried by
unanimous roll call vote; Buchanan absent.
RESOLUTION NO. D- 6125,- A RESOLUTION of the City Council of Yakima,
Washington, dissolving Irrigation District No. 757 and providing for the
disposition of all assets of the irrigation district.
*10. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION`AUTHbRIZING EXECUTION OF PERSONAL SERVICES
CONTRACT WITH TINIA HANSEN FOR DEFENSIVE DRIVING CLASSES
RESOLUTION NO. D -6126, A RESOLUTION authorizing the execution of an
agreement for personal consulting services for a defensive driving
course instructor.
*11. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF CERTIFICATE OF
SATISFACTION OF LIEN FOR PROPERTY AT 2602 WILLOW STREET
RESOLUTION NO. D -6127, A RESOLUTION authorizing the City Manager to
execute a Certificate of Satisfaction of Lien relating to property
located at 2602 Willow Street, Yakima, Washington.
13. CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING LEGAL PROCEEDINGS FOR THE
CONDEMNATION AND ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY FOR THE DOWNTOWN TRANSIT
TRANSFER FACILITY (BOYD OLOFSON & CO.)
Ordinance No. 3458 having been read by title, it was MOVED BY SIMS,
SECONDED BY SEMON, THAT THE ORDINANCE BE PASSED. The motion carried by
4 -2 roll call vote; Barnett and Brado voting nay; Buchanan absent.
Mr. Brado stated he voted nay because he believes the cost is
prohibitive and affordable housing and available parking will be taken.
ORDINANCE NO. 3458, AN ORDINANCE authorizing and directing the law firm
of Lyon, Beaulaurier, Weigand, Suko & Gustafson to institute. and
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prosecute legal proceedings for the condemnation and acquisition of real
property for the Downtown Transit Transfer Facility to be located
between East Chestnut Avenue and East Walnut Street and between South
4th Street and South Naches Avenue and for public facilities related
thereto; providing for the condemnation and taking of such real property
and declaring the condemnation and taking thereof to be necessary for
a public use required by the public interests; directing that
compensation for such taking be paid from fund number 364 - Transit
Capital Reserve Fund of the City of Yakima.
*14. SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE AMENDING THE 1992 BUDGET AND APPROPRIATING
FUNDS FOR CONFINED SPACE ENTRY SYSTEMS FOR SEWER COLLECTION AND PLANT
PERSONNEL
An Ordinance amending the 1992 budget and appropriating funds for
confined space entry systems for Sewer Collection and Plant personnel,
having been read by title only at the previous meeting, was brought
before the Council for a second reading.
ORDINANCE NO. 3459, AN ORDINANCE amending the 1992 budget for the City
of Yakima; and making an appropriation of $11,508 in the Sewer Operating
Fund for expenditure during 1992 for purchase of Confined Space Entry
Systems.
*15. SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE AMENDING THE 1992 BUDGET AND APPROPRIATING
FUNDS TO PAY CITY'S SHARE OF COSTS FOR THE COUNTY LAW AND JUSTICE
FACILITY
An Ordinance amending the 1992 budget and appropriating funds to pay the
City's share of costs for the County Law and Justice Facility, having
been read by title only at the previous meeting, was brought before the
Council for a second reading.
ORDINANCE NO. 3460, AN ORDINANCE amending the 1992 budget for the City
of Yakima; and making an appropriation of $250,000 in the General Fund
for expenditure during 1992 for the City's share of construction of the
Yakima County Minimum Security Jail Facility.
16. FIRST READING OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE 1992 BUDGET AND APPROPRIATING
FUNDS FOR THE KISSEL PARK WELL PROJECT (NO FORMAL ACTION ACQUIRED THIS
MEETING)
Councilmember Barnett questioned the possibility of liability for the
design being inappropriate. Mr. Wick assured him there would not be a
liability. Councilmember Brado questioned the possibility of this
project going out for bids to private industry.
An Ordinance amending the 1992 budget and appropriating funds for
replacement of the Ranney well at Kissel Park, having been read by title
only, was laid on the table for one week, until June 9, 1992.
17. OTHER BUSINESS
Councilmember Barnett questioned the legality of discussing an issue
scheduled for Executive Session when he didn't find anything in the
document provided that was confidential. Following advice from City
Attorney Vanek, it was the general consensus of Council that the issue
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involved not only policy, but litigation strategy. The issue was
considered in Executive Session.
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In, support of Yakima Valley Community College, it was the general
consensus of the Council for City Manager Zais to write a letter to the
State in support of equal enrollment in community colleges throughout
the State. (Councilmember Barnett absent after 5:00 P.M.)
Information Items:
Items of information supplied to Council were: Monthly Annexation
Status Report for May 1992; Monthly Rebound Plus Report. for May 1992;
Press Release regarding Household Hazardous Waste Turn -in Days; Notice
of Northeast Yakima Neighborhood Association's General meeting on May
28th; Minutes of the May 9, 1992 Eastern Washington Cities Coalition
meeting and agenda for its June 18th meeting;_notice of Planning and
Zoning Institute training; Ki -Yak's Kaleidoscope newsletter. May 1992;
Article from 5/22/92 Post Intellinctencer, "Proposed Higher Bus Fares are
Unfair, Protesters Say "; Agenda for May 27, 1992 Yakima Housing
Authority Board meeting and minutes of its March 25, 1992 meeting; and
Article from May 18, 1992 Business Week, "Cover Story - The Economic
Crisis of Urban America" and "Editorials -The America We Can No Longer
Ignore."
18. EXECUTIVE SESSION REGARDING PENDING AND PROSPECTIVE LITIGATION
It was MOVED BY SIMS, SECONDED BY SEMON, TO ADJOURN TO EXECUTIVE SESSION
FOR THE PURPOSE OF DISCUSSING PENDING AND PROSPECTIVE LITIGATION, WITH
IMMEDIATE ADJOURNMENT THEREAFTER TO JUNE 9, 1992, AT 7:00 A.M., AT THE
YAKIMA CENTER. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote; Barnett and
Buchanan absent.
19. ADJOURNMENT TO JUNE 9, 1992 AT 7:00 A.M. AT THE YAKIMA CENTER FOR
INFORMAL DISCUSSION
Following the completion of the Executive Session, the meeting was
adjourned at the hour of 5:45 P.M.
READ AND CERTIFIED ACCURATE BY: o Zl��
COUNCILMEMBER DATE
All
C' NCILME B`` DATE
ATTEST: / ¢� C4L-
CITY CLERK MAYOR
Minutes prepared by Clerk Harris
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