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HomeMy WebLinkAbout10/27/1992 Business Meeting 493 CITY OF.YAKIMA, WASHINGTON OCTOBER 27, 1992 BUSINESS MEETING I/ .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, Council Members Clarence Barnett, Henry Beauchamp (present after 2:15 p.m.), Bill Brado, Lynn Buchanan, Skip Semon (present after 2:05 p.m.) and Bernard Sims present on roll call. City Manager Zais, City Attorney Vanek, City Clerk Roberts and Deputy City Clerk Skovald also present. 2,. INVOCATION /PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Council Member Buchanan. 3. OPEN DISCUSSION FOR THE GOOD OF THE ORDER Council Member Barnett announced a vacancy on the Yakima Center Advisory Commission. It was MOVED BY BARNETT, SECONDED BY SIMS, TO APPOINT MIKE MC ELRATH TO THE YAKIMA CENTER ADVISORY COMMISSION. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote; Beauchamp and Semon absent. Council Member Barnett requested the 7 a.m. Adjourned Meeting at the Convention Center scheduled for November 10, 1992, be cancelled due to budget review being scheduled the same day. Council Member Buchanan commented on ISTEA projects, transportation enhancement projects, and stated suggestions have been made that maybe the East Gateway of the City of Yakima should be considered as an enhancement project for state approval. He referred to a list of enhancement projects to be considered by the legislature within the next two days. Mayor Berndt announced she had been invited by the National Trade Alliance to speak at the National League of Cities in New Orleans during late November. She is attempting to obtain funds from the community to cover her expenses. A. PROCLAMATIONS (if applicable) Mayor Berndt proclaimed the week of October 24 - November 1 as Red Ribbon week and encouraged each citizen to wear and display red ribbons to symbolize the commitment to establish a drug -free community. 494 OCTOBER 27, 1992 4. CONSENT AGENDA Mayor Berndt 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 general consensus to add Item No. 12 to 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 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.) *5. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE AUGUST 4, 1992 BUSINESS MEETING The Council minutes of the August 4, 1992 Business meeting were approved, having been duly certified accurate by two Councilmembers and no one present wishing to have said minutes read publicly. 6. PUBLIC HEARING ON A UTILITY EASEMENT VACATION IN THE VICINITY OF SOUTH 24TH AVENUE AND NOB HILL BLVD. REQUESTED BY U.S. BANCORP (SEE RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING VACATION - CONTINUED FROM 10/13/92) It was MOVED BY BARNETT, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN, TO REMOVE THE ITEM FROM THE TABLE. The motion passed by unanimous voice vote. This being the time set for public hearing, Joan Davenport, Supervising Associate Planner, explained the purpose of this meeting was to further consider U. S. Bancorp's request for a utility easement vacation. This continuation was directed by Council in order to provide U. S. Bancorp an opportunity to respond to the issues and concerns raised during the October 13, 1992 meeting. Also at Council's request, a joint report addressing traffic alternatives for this area was prepared. Joan Davenport and Shelley Willson, Supervising Traffic Engineer, were available to answer questions. Council members discussed the fairness of burdening U. S. Bank with the increased traffic problems in this area. They also discussed the input from the neighborhood regarding major changes in the traffic routes, and ways to mitigate the traffic concerns. 2 495 OCTOBER 27, 1992 After discussion about the utility easement vacation and I/ various traffic alternatives, Mayor Berndt opened the public hearing and asked for anyone wishing to speak to the issue. David Reid, Manager of Construction for U. S. Bank, 1414 Fourth Avenue, Seattle, addressed the easement issue. He agreed that this issue should be kept separate from the traffic issues in this area and believed the easement issue has a straight forward solution. Mr. Reid answered Council Member Beauchamp's question regarding shifting the position of • the building on the site. He stated it would present some safety problems from the standpoint of people driving around the bank to access the driveup and those who would park and walk across the driveup lanes. Rosemary Small, 1006 South 25th Avenue, submitted a site plan of the U. S. Bank and stated the traffic problems are the major issue of this project and requested a solution be found which would direct traffic away from the Nob Hill area. Edward Meyer, 1014 South 23rd Avenue, spoke in favor of the project and thought U. S. Bank should proceed. The amount of traffic generated from a bank would be a lot less than the amount of traffic generated from other types of businesses. Brenda Marler, 710 "South 24th Avenue, stated she did not oppose the bank development, only the increased amount of traffic it would bring. Ms. Marler also took exception to U. S. Bank's characterization of those who have spoken to this issue. Joseph Hampton, 618 South 24th Avenue, urged the Council to save the middle class neighborhoods of Yakima by making sure that businesses don't increase traffic in residential neighborhoods. He suggested several ideas for this area. Laura Blank, 1018 South 24th Avenue, explained that due to the direction the bank is to face, everyone using the bank will look directly into her livingroom. She suggested the building I/ be turned around on the lot so it faces Nob Hill Boulevard, put no curb cuts on 24th Avenue, and have all traffic exit onto 23rd Avenue and Nob Hill Boulevard - -the neighborhood would be happy. Margaret Kurtzman, 1010 South 24th Avenue, complained about the traffic and suggested the bank be put on 23rd Avenue instead of 24th Avenue. 3 496 OCTOBER 27, 1992 Phillip Small, 1006 South 25th Avenue, referred to a 1990 staff recommendation that no more commercial curbcuts be made. There being no one else present to speak to the issue, Mayor Berndt closed the public meeting. Joan Davenport summarized the current situation at the intersection Nob Hill Boulevard and 24th Avenue, which has experienced a notable increase in traffic. Because of the volume of traffic on Nob Hill Boulevard, it is no longer safe to allow a commercial curbcut on 23rd Avenue. After further discussion regarding possible traffic solutions, and Resolution No. D -6203 having been read by title, it was MOVED BY SIMS, SECONDED BY SEMON, THAT THE RESOLUTION BE ADOPTED. The motion carried by unanimous roll call vote. Council Member Beauchamp expressed concern about traffic issues and encouraged a solution to this problem be found. Mayor Berndt agreed and stated more arterials are needed. Council Member Brado expressed concern about a B -2 zone next to an R -2 zone. A buffer zone should have been included next to the R -2 zone. Council Member Barnett expressed concern about general deterioration of the neighborhood. He expressed hope that U. S. Bank would find a way to mitigate differences because they are good neighbors and a good bank. Perhaps U.S. Bank could redesign and use 23rd Avenue since the citizens have expressed concern. After discussion of placing traffic signs in the area, it was MOVED BY BEAUCHAMP,'SECOND BY BRADO, TO INVESTIGATE LOCATIONS TO INSTALL STOP SIGNS AND NO TRUCK SIGNS. The motion carried by 6 -1 voice vote; Buchanan voting nay. Mayor Berndt directed staff to work with the neighborhood for further options to mitigate traffic concerns. RESOLUTION NO. D -6203, A RESOLUTION authorizing the City Manager and the City Clerk of Yakima to execute a Quit Claim Deed to release four (4) sewer and water easements across property owned by US Bank of Washington, WA. 7. PUBLIC HEARING ON THE COMPREHENSIVE HOUSING AFFORDABILITY STRATEGY (CHAS) HOUSING PERFORMANCE REPORT FOR 1992 This being the time set for public hearing, Dixie Kracht, Block Grant Manager, introduced Vaughn McBride, Housing Planner. Mr. McBride presented the Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) report and was available to answer questions. Council Member Barnett verified the fact that these programs have helped 20 percent of the citizens within the jurisdiction. 4 497 OCTOBER 27, 1992, Council Member Beauchamp requested staff to provide a report as to the demographic disbursement of the services by ethnic break down and to include that information in future reports. Mayor Berndt opened the public hearing and asked for anyone wishing to speak to this issue. There being no one present wishing to speak to the issue, she closed the public hearing. It was MOVED BY BEAUCHAMP, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN, TO APPROVE THE DOCUMENT. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote. 8. PUBLIC MEETING ON THE FINAL LONG PLAT LOCATED IN THE VICINITY OF SOUTH 22ND AVENUE AND WEST VIOLA AVENUE, REQUESTED BY LARRY LOVELESS (BARNADDY ADDITION) (SEE RESOLUTION APPROVING THE FINAL PLAT AND SUBDIVISION) This being the time set for public meeting, Larry Lehman, Associate Planner, explained this request and was available to answer questions. Council Member Buchanan inquired why this is requested for approval when it is already built up and occupied. The fact that the properties have not been sold due to the nature of the present zoning is the reason estimated by Associate Planner Lehman. All Council members declared no exparte contact. Mayor Berndt opened the public meeting and asked for anyone wishing to comment on the issue. Larry Loveless, 1301 South 24th Avenue, answered Council Member Buchanan's question. The final plat procedure is to determine whether the conditions of the initial preliminary plat have been met. Over a year ago, permission was given to divide the property as outlined in the preliminary plat. Streets, curbs, gutters, drainage, street lights, and sewer lines were installed in accordance with current guidelines. The project was inspected and he received an approval letter. Resolution No. D -6204, having been read by title, it was MOVED BY BUCHANAN, SECONDED BY BEAUCHAMP, TO ADOPT THE RESOLUTION. The motion passed by unanimous roll call vote. I/ RESOLUTION NO. D -6204, A RESOLUTION approving the final plat and subdivision submitted by Larry Loveless (Barnaddy Addition No. 1) for five lots at the southwest corner of South 22nd Avenue and West Viola Avenue in the City of Yakima, subject to all of the conditions contained in the Hearing Examiner's Recommendation; except for the administrative adjustment that allows tandem parking; and authorizing the Mayor to sign the final plat. • 5 498 OCTOBER 27, 1992 9. AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION Robert Owen, 405 North Fourth Street, #5, asked about condemnation proceedings against the property on the corner of Fourth Street and East "D" Street. Council Member Beauchamp explained bids are being solicited for demolition. Mayor Berndt thanked Mr. Owen for his patience. Ester Huey, Director of Yakima County Substance Abuse Coalition, announced a Governor's award to Mayor Berndt, which was given to her at the Washington State Substance Abuse Coalition Annual Conference. This award was presented to Mayor Berndt for her extraordinary contribution in mobilizing community efforts against substance abuse in Washington state. 10. REPORT FROM VISITORS & CONVENTION BUREAU REGARDING PROPOSED FINANCING PLAN FOR THE YAKIMA CENTER EXPANSION Bruce Patterson, Chairman of the Advisory Commission for the Yakima Center, explained the move towards expansion of the center. Mr. Patterson urged support for this expansion and was available to answer any questions. Council Member Barnett requested information from the people who will be affected, i.e., the motels. Kathy Coffey, Executive Director, Yakima Valley Visitors & Convention Bureau, explained this issue was generally discussed with the hotel community which generated support of this proposal. Ms. Coffey commented on the recommendation from the Center Advisory Commission to support the 3% local option legislative bill for increase in room tax and to support a public facility district empowering legislation. City Manager Zais explained this request would be added to the legislative agenda package for the 1993 session. It requires legislative change to an existing statute of state law and a public facilities district cannot be created without a vote of the people countywide. Council Member Semon commented on the proposed public facilities district. In order to go through with this expansion and be able to fund it, several different things must be considered. Room tax by itself will not be enough money. After further discussion about the need to expand the Convention Center, it was MOVED BY BEAUCHAMP, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN, TO ACCEPT THE STAFF RECOMMENDATION TO CONTINUE LOOKING FOR LEGISLATIVE SUPPORT. Clarence Marshall, 4902 Castleview Drive, stated he understood this tax would add 3 %. 6 499 OCTOBER 27, 1992 He commented that this was asking a lot of the motel industry. I/ City Manager Zais explained 2% is already in place and this will replace the pullback of 2% by the state. The 1% to be added on the hotel room is for expansion for the future. Council Member Barnett expressed concern about the affected industry not being aware of these discussions. Council Member Brado suggested notifying those affected by this proposal. Council Member Beauchamp suggested it would be effective to make those in the industry aware of the need for their support.. Council Member Buchanan stated if there is no means of supporting the Visitors and Convention Bureau, there won't be any conventions. If there are no conventions, motels would have to close. It was MOVED BY BRADO, SECONDED BY BEAUCHAMP, TO TABLE THE MOTION FOR THREE WEEKS. The motion failed by 4 -3 voice vote. It was MOVED BY BUCHANAN, SECONDED BY SEMON, TO AMEND THE MOTION TO DIRECT STAFF TO SEND A LETTER IN THE VERY NEAR FUTURE TO EVERY HOTEL /MOTEL OWNER IN THE CITY. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote. Council recessed at 4:10 p.m. and resumed at 4:20 p.m. 11. PRESENTATION OF 1993 PRELIMINARY BUDGET FORECAST (CONTINUED FROM 10/13/92 - PLEASE BRING PREVIOUS MATERIAL) City Manager Zais commented on the Distinguished Budget Award the City received from the Government Finance Officer's Association for the 1992 City Budget. This is the sixth year in a row the City has received this award for excellence in budget preparation and presentation. City Manager Zais explained the 1993 Preliminary Budget is an overview of the entire city budget and the major issues predicted for the next year. Utilizing slides of graphs, the budget chart highlighted the total budget for capital improvements and other operating funds and general government services to show how the budget was applied in 1992. Mr. Zais compared the amount spent in 1992 to the estimated amount that will be spent in 1993, which is approximately 2.6% less than the amended 1992 Budget. Major policy issues. for 1993 were I/ also reviewed by City Manager Zais. John Hanson, Director of Finance and Budget, reviewed the condition of the general government. The significant reductions in beginning cash balances, major revenue sources for 1993 in the General Fund, were reviewed, as well as the various mandated programs which affect the City's budget. Mr. Hanson compared the per capita tax in Yakima to other 7 500 . OCTOBER 27, 1992 cities, which indicate Yakima is next to the lowest. A recap of revenues showed the City of Yakima is receiving, on a per capita basis, less than the other 14 cities shown on the graph. City Manager Zais commented that City tax rates in Yakima are significantly less than others proportionately sized in population. City Manager Zais explained, due to the lateness of the hour, the expense side of the budget will be reviewed next week. *12. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION INITIATING REZONE OF PROPERTY IN THE VICINITY OF NORTH 21ST AVENUE & FRUITVALE BOULEVARD FOR CITY PUBLIC WORKS SHOPS COMPLEX RESOLUTION NO. D -6205, A RESOLUTION initiating an amendment to the City zoning map for certain property in the vicinity of North 21st Avenue and Fruitvale Boulevard within the City of Yakima, Washington. 13. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF CONTRACT FOR YCTV PROFESSIONAL TECHNICAL SERVICES This item removed from the Agenda. *14. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF DISTRICT COURT FILING FEE AGREEMENT FOR 1993 RESOLUTION NO. D -6206, A RESOLUTION authorizing and directing the City Manager and City Clerk of the City of Yakima to execute a modification of the agreement with Yakima County relating to Yakima County District Court costs. *15. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING CANCELLATION OF CLAIMS FUND WARRANTS, PAYROLL FUND WARRANTS AND TREASURY CHECKS RESOLUTION NO. D -6207, A RESOLUTION authorizing the cancellation of outstanding claims warrants Treasury checks. *16. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF CONTRACT WITH UNION GAP FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT DISPATCHING DATA PROCESSING SERVICES RESOLUTION NO. D -6208, A RESOLUTION authorizing the execution of a City of Yakima -City of Union Gap Data Processing and Law Enforcement Dispatch Services Agreement. 8 Sal 5 OCTOBER 27, 1992 *17. APPROVAL OF THIRD QUARTER 1992 REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE (BUDGET) REPORT The Third Quarter 1992 Revenue and Expenditure (budget) 1/ report, was accepted. 18. OTHER BUSINESS Council Member Buchanan asked for approval to attend the National League of Cities (NLC) Conference. It was MOVED BY SIMS, SECONDED BY SEMONS, TO APPROVE THE REQUEST. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote. For Council Information: Items of information supplied to Council were: Metro Plan Status Report. 10/22/92; News release from DOE regarding Hazardous Waste Programs Face budget Cuts. 10/21/92; Report from DOE regarding Richardson's Airway Remedial Investigation Begins. 11/92; Assignments Pending in Office of Environmental Planning as of October 27, 1992; Report from Human Resources regarding vacancies and hiring status as of October 9, 1992; Memorandum from City Attorney regarding Damage Claims Referred to Insurance Company. 10/21/92; and Legal Department Monthly Report for September 1992. 19. EXECUTIVE SESSION REGARDING PENDING AND PROSPECTIVE LITIGATION AND PROPERTY ACQUISITION It was MOVED BY BUCHANAN, SECONDED BY SEMON, TO MOVE INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION FOR THE PURPOSE OF DISCUSSING PENDING AND PROSPECTIVE LITIGATION AND PROPERTY ACQUISITION, WITH IMMEDIATE ADJOURNMENT THEREAFTER. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote. I/ 9