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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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. •
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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 %.
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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
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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.
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*17. APPROVAL OF THIRD QUARTER 1992 REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE
(BUDGET) REPORT
The Third Quarter 1992 Revenue and Expenditure (budget)
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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.
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