HomeMy WebLinkAbout12/15/1992 Business Meeting 75
CITY OF YAKIMA, WASHINGTON
DECEMBER 15, 1992
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, Council Members Clarence
Barnett, Henry Beauchamp (present after 2:30 p.m.) , Bill Brado,
Lynn Buchanan, Skip Semon (present after 2:07 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.
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2. INVOCATION /PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Council Member Barnett.
3. OPEN DISCUSSION FOR THE GOOD OF THE ORDER
Mayor Berndt stated she was contacted and asked to meet with
the Governor's transition team relating to the Growth
Management Act. ICMA will put together a position paper for
the Clinton team on the postions of local government as it
affects environmental mandates.
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 consensus of the Council that the off - agenda
item, Item No. 23A be added to the Consent Agenda and Item
No. 14 be removed from the Consent Agenda. The City Clerk
then read the Consent Agenda items, including resolutions
and ordinances by title. It was MOVED BY SIMS, SECONDED
BY BUCHANAN, THAT THE CONSENT AGENDA, AS READ, BE
ADOPTED. The motion carried by unanimous roll call vote;
Brado absent. (Subsequent paragraphs preceded by an
asterisk ( *) indicate items on the Consent Agenda handled
under one motion without further discussion.)
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DECEMBER 15, 1992
*5. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE DECEMBER 1, 1992 ADJOURNED
MEETING
The minutes of the December 1, 1992 Business meeting was
approved, having been duly certified accurate by two Council
Members and no one present wishing to have said minutes read
publicly.
6. AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION
None.
7. PRESENTATION OF SERVICE AWARDS TO CITY EMPLOYEES WITH 20 OR
MORE YEARS OF SERVICE
Service awards for twenty years service were presented to
Irene Barber (not present), Gregory R. Floyd, Victor M. Kusske
(not present), Barbara D. Dodd, Donald W. Keefer, Scott A.
Klepach, Kathleen A. Valenzuela, Kenneth C. Gregory, Bill A.
Abhold (not present), Herbert L. Still, Thomas M. Carlton,
Willard H. Morris (not present), Terry L. Wakefield (not
present), Ray Thompson, Thomas R. Bridges (not present), George
W. -Justice and Tony Velasquez (not present) . Service awards
for twenty -five years service were presented to Pleas Green,
Jr. (not present), Nina A. Vereb, Douglas A. Pedersen (not
present), and Jack C. Balding.
8. PUBLIC HEARING ON THE UPDATE OF THE 1992 TRANSIT AMERICANS
WITH DISABILITIES ACT PLAN
This being the time set for public hearing, John Haddix,
Transit Planner, reviewed the changes in the 1993
Paratransit Plan Update. He responded to Council Member
Barnett's question regarding inclusion in the report of the
cost of the transit transfer center and acquisition of the
shops by stating they have not seen any increase in costs at
this time. Mayor Berndt opened the public hearing. There
being no response, the public hearing was closed.
Resolution No. D -6225, having been read by title, it was
MOVED BY BUCHANAN, SECONDED BY BEAUCHAMP, THAT THE
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RESOLUTION BE ADOPTED. The motion carried by unanimous
roll call vote.
RESOLUTION NO. D - 6225, A RESOLUTION approving and
adopting an updated plan to meet Urban Mass Transportation
Administration Service requirements for complementary
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DECEMBER 15 1992
paratransit service consistent with, the Americans With
Disbilities Act of 1990.
1/ 9. CONSIDERATION OF APPOINTMENT TO THE DOWNTOWN AREA
REDEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
It was MOVED BY BEAUCHAMP, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN,
THAT MS. LYNN LIIKALA - SEYMORE, BE APPOINTED TO THE
DARC COMMITTEE TO FILL THE VACANT TERM OF VAL
FINLAYSON. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
*10. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF A
CONTRACT FOR PUBLIC DEFENDER SERVICES
RESOLUTION NO. D -6226, A RESOLUTION authorizing the
execution of a public defender contract for 1993.
*11. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF AN
INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT WITH YAKIMA COUNTY FOR COMMUTE TRIP
REDUCTION FUND DISTRIBUTION
RESOLUTION NO. D -6227, A RESOLUTION authorizing and
directing the City Manager and the City Clerk of the City of
Yakima to execute a Contractual Agreement with Yakima County
for commute trip reduction planning.
*12. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF A
PERSONAL SERVICES CONTRACT FOR FOOTCARE SERVICES
RESOLUTION NO. D -6228, A RESOLUTION authorizing and
directing the City Manager and City Clerk of the City of
Yakima to execute an agreement with Judy Lebens, R.N., to
provide footcare services at the Yakima Senior Center.
*13. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF LEASE,
OPERATING, AND INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT WITH YAKIMA
INTERURBAN LINES ASSOCIATION
I/ RESOLUTION NO. D ,6229, A RESOLUTION authorizing and
directing the City Manager and City Clerk of the City of
Yakima to execute a lease and operating agreement with
Yakima Interurban Lines Association, Inc. for electric
railway street car operation for 1993.
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DECEMBER 15, 1992
14. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION ADOPTING A 1993 PARKS AND
RECREATION PROGRAM FEE SCHEDULE
Dave Flaherty, Parks and Recreation Manager, presented
Council with a revised fee schedule, which includes the
appropriate discounts for City citizens. Resolution No. D
6230, having been read by title only, it was MOVED BY
SIMS, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN, THAT THE RESOLUTION BE
ADOPTED. The motion carried by unanimous roll call vote.
RESOLUTION NO. D A RESOLUTION adopting a schedule
of fees for recreational activities of the City of Yakima
Department of Public Works, Division of Parks and
Recreation.
*15. APPROVAL OF FINAL CONTRACT PAYMENT FOR "A" AND "B" STREETS
PARKING LOTS AND CHESTERLEY PARK AND RIDE PARKING LOT
The report from the City Engineer dated December 3, 1992,
with respect to the completion of the work on the "A" Street
parking Lot, "B" Street Parking Lot and Chesterley Park &
Ride Parking Lot construction project, performed by Superior
Paving Company, was approved,
*16. APPROVAL OF BUDGET REPORT FOR NOVEMBER 1992
The Budget Report for November 1992 was approved.
*17. SET DATE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR JANUARY 19, 1993 FOR
SHORELINES VARIANCE PERMIT IN VICINITY OF 1701 TERRACE
HEIGHTS DRIVE, REQUESTED BY CURT BANEY INC. /OXFORD SUITES
January 19, 1993 was set as the date of public hearing on
the request for a Shorelines Varience Permit in the vicinity
of 1701 Terrace Heights Drive, requested by Curt Baney,
Inc. /Oxford Suites
18. CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCE ADOPTING A BUDGET FOR 1993
The changes to the proposed 1993 budget reviewed by DCouncil
on December 8th were highlighted by City Manager Zais.
There are a number of decisions which will be held over and
considered in 1993. Ordinance No. 3501, having been read by
title, it was MOVED BY SIMS, SECONDED BY BEAUCHAMP,
THAT THE ORDINANCE BE ADOPTED. The motion carried by
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DECEMBER 15, 1992
5 -2 roll call vote; Barnett and Brado voting nay. Council
Member Barnett stated he could not vote for a budget that
contains the sale of the City Shops Complex to the Transit
Division at a depreciated value. Council Member Brado
explained his nay vote, stating he has concerns about the $5
million Transit budget.
ORDINANCE NO. 3501, AN ORDINANCE adopting a budget for
the City of Yakima, Washington, for the year 1993; and
making appropriations for estimated expenditures.
*19. CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING HOUSE MOVING
REQUIREMENTS
ORDINANCE NO. 3502, AN ORDINANCE relating to buildings;
modifying requirements of moved building permit applications
to include consideration of the moved building's effect of
property values of the neighborhood into which it is
proposed to be placed; updating the title of the involved
official from "Building Inspector" to "Code Administration
Manager "; and amending City of Yakima Municipal Code Section
11.50.040.
*20. CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE COMPENSATION PLAN
AND BENEFITS FOR CERTAIN EMPLOYEES:
A. AMENDING THE COMPENSATION PLAN FOR CERTAIN CITY
EMPLOYEES (AFSCME,YPPA, Fire Deputy Chief and Battalion Chiefs)
ORDINANCE NO. 3503, AN ORDINANCE relating to City
personnel; adopting a classification and compensation plan
for City employees to be effective January 17, 1993;
amending Subsections 2.20.100 A, 2.20.110 E, 2.20.110 F, and
2.20.110 I, all of the City of Yakima Municipal Code.
B. AUTHORIZING A CITY PARTICIPATED DEFERRED COMPENSATION
PROGRAM FOR SUPERVISORY AND CONFIDENTIAL EMPLOYEES
ORDINANCE NO. 3504, AN ORDINANCE relating to personnel;
authorizing an expanded management group of City employees
to participate in the management group tax deferred
compensation plan; making minor stylistic changes in the
Section 125 Spending Plan ordinance; and amending Section
1.20.130 and Section 2.20.150 both of the City of Yakima
Municipal Code.
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DECEMBER 15, 1992
*21. SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE AMENDING THE 1992 BUDGET AND
APPROPRIATING FUNDS FOR REPAIRS TO FIRE DEPARTMENT SNORKEL
An Ordinance amending the 1992 budget and appropriating
funds for repairs to the Fire Department snorkel, having
been read by title at the previous meeting, was brought
before the Council for a second reading.
ORDINANCE NO. 3505, AN ORDINANCE amending the 1992
budget for the City of Yakima; and making an appropriation
of $20,574 in the Fire Capital Fund for expenditure during
1992 for unanticipated additional costs relating to
rebuilding an aerial fire apparatus (Y -18)
*22. FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE AMENDING THE 1992 BUDGET AND
APPROPRIATING FUNDS INTO THE HEALTH BENEFIT RESERVE FUND
(No formal action require this meeting)
An Ordinance amending the 1992 budget and appropriating
funds into the Health Benefit Reserve Fund, having been read
by title only, was laid on the table for four weeks, until
January 12, 1993.
23. OTHER BUSINESS
*A. CONSIDERATION OF A JOINT RESOLUTION WITH YAKIMA COUNTY
AUTHORIZING, RATIFYING AND ADOPTING AMENDMENT NUMBER 2
TO A GRANT AGREEMENT WITH THE FAA
RESOLUTION NO. D -6231, A JOINT RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY OF YAKIMA AND YAKIMA COUNTY authorizing,
ratifying, and adopting Amendment Number 2 to a Grant
Agreement for Federal Assistance, between the Federal
Aviation Administration and the Yakima Air Terminal Board
for project number 3 -53- 0089 -11.
David Russell, Street and Traffic Operations Manager,
reported on the snow removal efforts by staff and private
contractors. He also distributed a copy of the Winter
Operations,Plan for snow and ice control, which includes a
listing of the prioritized streets for plowing. -
City Manager Zais briefed the Council on his contacts with
the newly electe U.S. legislators.
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DECEMBER 15, 1992
Information Items:
Items of information supplied to Council were: Letter from
Yakima Theatres, Inc. requesting relocation of the City buses from
street adjacent to Sunfair Park. 12/9/92; Notice of Neighborhood
Meeting on Monday, December 14, 1992 to review alternatives plans to
address traffic concerns in vicinity of South 24th Avenue and Nob Hill
Blvd.; Letter from S.L. Start & Associates regarding proposal
submitted to HUD for a Youth Entrepreneur Program. 12/1/92; Memo
from Joan Davenport regarding Joint Public Meeting of City Council and
County Commissioners to Review UAZO Text Amendments. 12/9/92; Letter
from Michele Alexander resigning from the Parks and Recreation
Commission. 11/20/92; Letter from KIT, KATS and KHYT Radio
expressing appreciation for providing them with a bus for their annual
"Stuff A Bus" campaign for the Union Gospel Mission and Salvation
Army. 11/25/92; Narcotics Enforcement Third Quarter 1992 Report;
Yakima Valley Conference of Governments Newsletter, Volume 18, No. 12,
December 1992; Washington State Tourism bulletin, November 1992;
and Yakima Interurban lines Association Volunteer Newsletter;
December, 1992: #92 -4. Distributed 12/15/92: Memorandum from Craig
Robinson regarding Substance Abuse Trainning. Undated; Notice of
Public Hearing before the Boundary Review Board re: Incorporation of
the. City of West Valley set for January 12, 1993; Letter from Rod
Knipper supporting the Greeway Pathway West. 12/10/92; Letter from
Mr. & Mrs. Vredenburgh supporting Greenway Pathway West; Letter to
DOT from Herbert M. Licht supporting Greenway Pathway West; Monthly
Report of the Chief of Police for November 1992; Agenda for 12/17/92
Hearing Examiner meeting; Memorandum from City Attorney regarding
Damage Claims Referred to Insurance Company. 12/2/92 19; Letter
from Jim Dwinell supporting the Greenway Pathway West. 12/14/92;
Letter from Mr. & Mrs. Norris Fariner supporting the Greenway Pathway
West. 12/10/92; Legal Department Monthly Report for November 1992;
and Agenda for December 16, 1992 Yakima Housing Authority Board
meeting and minutes of its October 28, 1992 meeting.
24. EXECUTIVE SESSION REGARDING COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AND
PENDING LITIGATION
It was MOVED BY SEMON, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN, TO MOVE
INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION FOR THE PURPOSE OF DISCUSSING
COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AND PENDING LITIGATION. The
motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
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CITY OF:YAKIMA, WASHINGTON
JANUARY 5, 1993
BUSINESS MEETING /STUDY SESSION
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,
Bill Brado, Lynn Buchanan (absent after 4:35 p.m.), and
Bernard Sims present on roll call. Council Members
Henry Beauchamp and Skip Semon absent and excused. 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
Bill Schultz, Transit Manager, announced the City of Selah
has requested a demonstration transit project from Yakima
Transit. Council Member Brado questioned if Selah's request
was to utilize the Trolleys. Responding to this question,
Mr. Schultz indicated there are no trolleys to spare and a
trolley would have to be purchased to provide that service.
He suggested utilizing a bus for the route and explained the
reason for this request is to mitigate traffic problems
between Selah and Yakima during peak hours. Mr. Schultz
commented that the details of this request would be reviewed
at an upcoming Transit Committee meeting. Council Member
Buchanan commented that the Trolley Association has one of
the Yakima street cars that.could utilize the rail line and
run from the Selah Civic Center to connect with the Yakima
city buses. Mr. Schultz reported the Trolley ridership has
been high -- over 400,000 boardings.
Council Member Barnett asked Dennis Covell, Director of
Engineering and Utilities, about an apparent conflict on the
surface transporation program allocation meeting scheduled
for January 8, 1993. Mr. Covell stated that is a task RTPO
meeting. He will attend the other meeting the day before and
indicated he would prepare a report after the meeting and
submit it to Council.
Council Member Sims commented about the cutbacks of state
programs, especially Growth Management. He suggested getting
in touch with a contact person at the state level in order to
discuss the impact of the cutbacks on the City of Yakima.
City Manager Zais commented that AWC has been monitoring and
evaluating the potential impact statewide.
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January 5, 1993
Mayor Berndt requested from Council members any committee
changes they might suggest. Council Member Sims indicated
the Parks and Recreation Appointment Committee needs to meet
once all applications are in. Mayor Berndt reminded all
chairpersons (those whose name is the first on the committee
list) they have the responsibility to make the arrangements
for the interviewing and seeing the vacant positions get
filled. Council Member Barnett commented that the list of
boards and commissions needs to be updated. It was MOVED BY
SIMS, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN, TO REAPPOINT BO HEPLER
AND TOM HURSON TO THE PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION.
The motion carried by unanimous voice vote; Beauchamp and
Semon absent. Mayor Berndt mentioned there is one more
vacancy on the Parks & Recreation Commission to be filled.
4. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE OCTOBER 20, NOVEMBER 24, AND
DECEMBER 8 AND 15, 1992 ADJOURNED AND BUSINESS MEETINGS
It was MOVED BY BUCHANAN, SECONDED BY BARNETT, THAT
THE MINUTES OF THE NOVEMBER 24 AND DECEMBER 15
BUSINESS AND ADJOURNED MEETINGS, BE APPROVED, HAVING
• BEEN CERTIFIED ACCURATE BY TWO COUNCIL MEMBERS AND NO
ONE PRESENT WISHING TO HAVE SAID MINUTES READ
PUBLICLY AND TO TABLE THE OCTOBER 20 BUSINESS MEETING
AND DECEMBER 8 ADJOURNED MEETING. The motion carried by
unanimous voice vote; Beauchamp and Semon absent.
5. AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION
None
6. QUASI - JUDICIAL HEARING ON APPEAL OF REVOCATION OF TAXI
DRIVER'S LICENSE REQUESTED BY JAMES SCHELPER (APPLICANT
REQUESTS EXECUTIVE SESSION)
It was MOVED BY SIMS, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN, TO MOVE INTO
EXECUTIVE SESSION FOR THE PURPOSE OF THE QUASI - JUDICIAL
HEARING ON APPEAL OF REVOCATION OF TAXI DRIVER'S LICENSE
REQUESTED BY JAMES SCHELPER. The motion carried by unanimous
voice vote; Beauchamp and Semon absent.
The Council went into Executive Session at 2:17 p.m. and
reconvened at 2:35 p.m.
It was MOVED BY SIMS, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN, TO DENY
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THE APPEAL OF THE REVOCATION OF THE TAXI DRIVER'S
LICENSE REQUESTED BY JAMES SCHELPER. The motion carried
by unanimous voice vote; Beauchamp and Semon absent. Council
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January 5,.
Member Brado indicated that reconsideration might be possible
some time in the future.
7. SET DATE OF PUBIC MEETING FOR JANUARY 19, 1993 ON APPEAL OF
HEARING EXAMINER'S DECISION TO APPROVE OPERATION OF A
RETIREMENT HOME AT 213 SOUTH 40TH AVENUE
It was MOVED BY BUCHANAN, SECONDED BY BRADO, TO SET
JANUARY 19, 1993, AS DATE OF PUBLIC MEETING TO
CONSIDER AN APPEAL OF HEARING EXAMINER'S DECISION TO
APPROVE OPERATION OF A RETIREMENT HOME AT 213 SOUTH
40TH AVENUE. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote;
Beauchamp and Semon absent.
8. SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE AMENDING THE 1992 BUDGET AND
APPROPRIATING FUNDS INTO THE HEALTH BENEFIT FUND
Ordinance No. 3506 having been read by title, it was MOVED
BY BUCHANAN, SECONDED BY SIMS, TO ADOPT THE
ORDINANCE. Council Member Sims expressed concern about the
reserve being a high reserve. The unanticipated cannot be
anticipated, and this year was a bad year. The rates should
be set for the current- year to absorb not only past
histories, but current expectations. City Manager Zais
explained this will allow the City to end the year with
approximately $900,000 in this fund. After further
discussion of this issue, the question was called for a vote
on the motion. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote;
Beauchamp and Semon absent.
ORDINANCE NO. 3506, AN ORDINANCE amending the 1992
budget for the City of Yakima; and making an appropriation of
$500,000 in the Employee Health Benefit Reserve Fund for
expenditure during 1992 for unanticipated medical claim
costs.
9. RECONSIDERATION OF RECOMMENDATIONS TO COMPLY WITH WASHINGTON
SURVEY & RATING BUREAU REQUIREMENTS (CONTINUED FROM 12/8/92)
Gerald Beeson, Fire Chief, referred to his December 8th
presentation where he recommended suggestions to improve the
fire protection delivery system for the City of Yakima based
on the survey of inspection that was done by the Washington
Surveying and Rating Bureau. Three of the eight
recommendations were decided by Council, and, after a 30 -day
extension, Chief Beeson requested opportunity to discuss the
remaining recommendations one at a time. He explained there
were two phases in the recommendations, and he emphasized the
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January 5, 1993
last issue in Phase I -- Fire Code Enforcement. Chief
Beeson recommended two additional fire inspectors and one
clerical support person be hired for an annual cost of
approximately $135,000. The first year would cost less than
$135,000, but some capital expenditures for equipment is
needed. He suggested four ways to fund these positions. (1)
To assess an annual fire inspection fee for all affected
businesses. (2) To increase business license fees 34 percent.
(3) To increase the City Utility In- Lieu -of Tax by 1 percent.
(4) To utilize the amount of funds that would come from the
deletion of unfilled positions along with the amount from the
denied management pay raise proposal.
Bob Shampine, Code Administration Manager, explained the cost
for the first year would be about $133,500, but in subsequent
years because of cost saving measures, the amount would be
about $120,000. There was further discussion about the
proposed funding options among Council members and staff.
Council Member Sims questioned the importance of the Rating
Bureau. He explained that it is his understanding that
mutual companies don't use a rating bureau, and perhaps
mutual companies should be used to provide insurance coverage
for commercial and industrial properties. Because Council
Member Sims did not feel comfortable approving any rate
structure increase and cost for manpower for something that
may be a moot point, not only for for Yakima, but for every
city in Washington, he requested more time be allowed for
this issue in order to determine whether the mutual companies
can provide coverage with less cost.
Council Member Brado questioned whether or not there is any
assurance the fire rating will improve if the positions are
implemented and whether or not more money will need to be
spent. Chief Beeson indicated the rating would improve based
on the Rating Bureau's report and their response to his
statements about the proposed improvements. Chief Beeson
emphasized the importance of a good quality fire inspection
program for the safety of the community.
Mayor Berndt agreed with Chief Beeson and suggested the
funding come from the management compensation dollars, a new
source of revenue, and possibly some reserves. Requesting
another rate increase from the business community was out of
the question. Council Member Barnett endorsed adequate code
inspection and enforcement. It is essential that these
positions be funded regardless of the influence on the
rating. Mr. Shampine encouraged Council members to approve
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January 5, .:1993
the positions. He explained inspections were assigned to his
division in 1980 when Council abolished the Bureau of Fire
Prevention, which had seven or eight employees doing fire
prevention inspections. There was no added personnel to do
that task providing for an awesome burden. Council Member
Sims questioned government stepping in and doing what
business should do for themselves. Council Member Barnett
submitted another funding concept for review by City Manager
Zais. It was MOVED BY SIMS, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN, TO
DEFER THIS ISSUE FOR TWO WEEKS. The motion carried by
unnanimous voice vote; Beauchamp and Semon absent. Council
Members Sims and Buchanan requested clarification of the
proposed inspection rate schedule for multi- buildings.
Mr. Shampine defined the rate is "per building" not "per
site." City Manager Zais indicated this concept needs to be
refined and more facts and information are needed.
Allen Schmid, President, Greater Yakima Chamber of Commerce,
commented on various issues. He requested clarification of
the definition of "one building" when it is occupied by more
than one business. Mr. Schmid expressed the Chamber's view
that public safety should be paid for by all citizens, not
just the business community. The necessity of fire
inspections in .order to maintain a safe community was
recognized by Mr. Schmid. He suggested the position be
funded internally. Another area of comment from Mr. Schmid
included the fire facilities. plan. He stated the meeting
that took place two weeks ago with Chief Beeson went very
well. He supports staff recommendations and urged Council
members to study the issue thoroughly. Mr. Schmid emphasized
the importance of prioritizing and reviewing all projects
coming up over the next two to three years. Businesses would
like to work very closely with the City in order to make this
a better community.
Chief Beeson commented on the segment of his report regarding
the city -wide paging system. He explained this was a
recommendation by the Surveying and Rating Bureau and would
be an enhancement for the City of Yakima. Chief Beeson
suggested funding this system out of the General Fund
Reserves. Council Member Barnett described the pagers as a
good form of communication and would save time. Council
Member Sims commented about cellular phones being both
convenient and mobile. However, there was consensus among
Council members to vote on this issue at a later date. The
next issue that Chief Beeson commented about was computer
monitors, printers and software development for each fire
station. This was also a recommendation by the Surveying and
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January 5, 1993
Rating Bureau and is something needed to complete the
communication system. Chief Beeson reported the computer
aided dispatch system went on line yesterday, and 911 is
planned to be operational in the spring of this year. Chief
Beeson announced a change in the figures contained in his
report. Now the need is $10,000 for the equipment and
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$10,000 for the software development; this one time cost to
be funded out of the EMS Levy Fund. Mayor Berndt stated it
is the consensus of Council members to wait to vote on this
issue also, but to hear the briefing.
The last item Fire Chief Beeson commented on was Fire Flow
Requirements Appeal. He explained there is no cost
associated with this item, and this is something that needs
to , be pursued. It was MOVED BY BRADO, SECONDED BY
BUCHANAN, TO DIRECT STAFF TO BEGIN APPEAL OF FIRE
FLOW REQUIREMENTS. The motion carried by unanimous voice
vote; Beauchamp and Semon absent.
11. B. GATEWAY ORGANIZATION APPEAL /UNION GOSPEL MISSION
John Vanek, City Attorney, requested an off - agenda item be
considered by Council. It was the general consensus of the
Council to consider this item out of sequence of the agenda.
Council Member Brado excused himself due to conflict of
interest. (Council Member Brado temporarily absent at
3 :20 p.m.)
James Carmody, representing the Union Gospel Mission and also
having the authorization from the Yakima Gateway
Organizataion, requested a one week continuance of the public
meeting on the appeal filed by Yakima Gateway Organization.
Mr. Carmody explained the reason for the request was to allow
the parties an opportunity to continue trying to reach an
agreement.
After a brief comment from City Manager Zais regarding the
request, it was MOVED BY BUCHANAN, SECONDED BY BARNETT,
TO MOVE INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION FOR QUASI- JUDICIAL
PURPOSES AND PROSPECTIVE LITIGATION. The motion carried
by unanimous voice vote; Beauchamp, Brado and Semon absent.
The Council went into Executive Session from 3:20 p.m. until
3:35 p.m.
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After deliberation in Executive Session, it was MOVED BY
BUCHANAN, SECONDED BY SIMS, TO APPROVE THE
CONTINUANCE OF THE UNION GOSPEL MISSION HEARING FOR
ONE WEEK, TO JANUARY 19TH, 1993. The motion carried by
unanimous voice vote; Beauchamp, Brado and Semon absent.
1 0. PRESENTATION OF FIRE FACILITIES PLAN CAPITAL REPORT (Council
Member Brado present at 3:37 p.m.)
Fire Chief Beeson suggested the proposed facility
recommendations, which have been recently modified and
adjusted, be studied and then considered so that a final
policy decision can be made to submit this issue late in 1993
to the voters
David Bachmann, Battalion Chief, summarized the Yakima Fire
Department's capital needs analysis. During this
presentation, he explained capital needs continually grow as
facilities and equipment reach their expected life spans and
additional demands are placed on the department.
Mr. Bachmann briefly reviewed the background information and
using drawings presented the proposal. He answered questions
from Council members concerning the items presented for
consideration that included: (1) Fire Station No. 1 --
Additions and Alterations, (2) Fire Station No. 3 Relocation,
(3) Training Center Complex -- comprised of four components:
Alteration to Station #5, Training Classroom, Drill
Tower /Drafting Pit and Site acquisition and development, (4)
Aerial Truck, and (5) Maintenance /Electronic Shop Facility.
City Manager Zais explained the concept of the bond issue as
it would be affected by the potential sale of the two
properties. He outlined a suggested "financial packaging"
strategy for this project. Addressing Council Member Sims'
suggestion to utilize current, low interest rates, City
Manager Zais recommended a time frame be determined for a
final policy decision, after Council members further study
and consider the proposals. Because Council determined the
number one priority to be the police facility, the next
direction would be the "priority" of this in relationship to
other capital needs. Business people and others in the
community believe there needs to be some ultimate
determination of priorities. One concept that could be
considered is whether these priorities are to be staged in
multiple bond issues over a two or three year period.
Another concept, Mr. Zais suggested, in order to build the
community support necessary to attract voter approval, a
"public facilities bond issue" that would stretch for five
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years and include all the priorities. Mr. Zais further
explained this type of bond issue has been successful in a
number of communities because there is no need to go back to
the polls so frequently. In order to help move these
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projects forward and to garner the support needed for any
multiple bond issue -- either a common bond issue or an
individual bond issue -- an issue to consider is the need for
citizen participation and citizen support from broad based
constituencies. Mr. Zais suggested a citizen's capital
improvement committee be developed to make recommendations.
Mayor Berndt explained her idea to meet with Department Heads
to look at capital needs; and perhaps not just capital needs,
but manpower needs. There is an important need to hear from
everyone, and now is the time to schedule it. It should have
Council input, not just staff. City Manager Zais explained
he was in favor of meeting with the Department Directors, but
there are other outside parties that want to have some say
and involvement in these issues.
Addressing concerns of the Yakima Fire Fighters Association
was its President, Ron Johnson. After review of the plan,
the membership agreed most of the proposal is needed.
Station No. 3 has been needed for a long time. Twenty years
ago, the membership campaigned very _,hard. for then bond issue
and would like to see the training facility built.
Mr. Johnson requested more attention be directed toward the
living quarters of the fire fighters. Mr. Johnson explained
the roof at Station No. 1 is leaking, and since Station No. 5
was built at the same time as Station No. 1, there is a good
possibility its roof will start having problems as well. At
Station No. 1, a women's restroom is needed, along with the
one planned at Station No. 5. Mr. Johnson urged
consideration be given to remodeling dorm rooms in order to
provide privacy for the men and women on duty. He stated the
membership has concerns about the dorm rooms in Station No.
1, Station No. 4 and Station No. 5. Another area of concern
is lack of money for maintenance of existing facilities.
Because Station No. 3 is old, there has been problems with
the furnace not working properly and being told there is no
money available due to budget constraints. Mr. Johnson
suggested a maintenance levy be proposed, or at least money
be put aside for future needs such as these. The next
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suggestion Mr. Johnson proposed was planning for the future-
- allowing for change -- and he gave examples. Twenty years
ago there were no women working at the fire department, so
there was no need for women's restrooms and privacy
provisions. When Station No. 2 was built, it was not built
for 24 hour occupancy; it does not meet today's code. City
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. January 5, 1993
Manager Zais explained a bond issued for capital improvements
is just what the name implies. Basically, the law narrowly
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defines capital improvements and facility additions.
Maintenance and operation would require the expenditure of
separate funds. Mr. Zais suggested the EMS Levy or perhaps a
special operating levy could be used for the improvements
Mr. Johnson described, but it could not be something fit into
this bond issue as proposed. Chief Beeson stated Mr. Johnson
made some very valid points. He commented about the changes
in the Fire Department, accommodating those changes and
addressing the needs of the fire fighters.
11. OTHER BUSINESS
Mayor Berndt asked all Council members if they would like to
participate in a joint workshop with Yakima County and,
possibly, other local jurisdictions. There was a consensus
among Council members to participate.
A. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF A
SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT WITH TONY SLOAN AND THE I.A.F.F.
Resolution No. -D -6232, having been read by title, it was
MOVED BY BUCHANAN, SECONDED BY BRADO, TO ADOPT THE
RESOLUTION. The motion carried by unanimous roll call
vote; Beauchamp and Semon absent.
RESOLUTION NO. D - 6232, A RESOLUTION directing and
authorizing the City Manager and City Clerk to execute a
settlement agreement with Tony Sloan and the Yakima Fire
Fighters Association, I.A.F.F. Local No. 469. "
Information Items:
Items of information supplied to Council were: Letter from
State Department of Community Development regarding amendment
to original budget proposal. 12/23/92; Metropolitan Yakima
Comprehensive Plan Status Report as of December 30, 1992;
EPA Superfund.Fact Sheet - Woods Industries Superfund Site.
12/28/92; Yakima County Substance Abuse Coalition Community
Council By Laws; Minutes of the December 3, 1992 Downtown
I/ Area Redevelopment Committee meeting; and Newsletter of the
Northwest Policy Center, Volume 4, Issue 4, November 1992,
The Changing Northwest.
•
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12. EXECUTIVE SESSION REGARDING COLLECTIVE BARGAINING, PENDING
AND PROSPECTIVE LITIGATION.
It was MOVED BY SIMS, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN, TO ADJOURN
TO EXECUTIVE SESSION FOR THE PURPOSE OF DISCUSSING
COLLECTIVE BARGAINING, AND PENDING AND PROSPECTIVE
LITIGATION WITH IMMEDIATE ADJOURNMENT THEREAFTER TO
7:00 AM, JANUARY 12, 1993, AT THE YAKIMA CENTER. The
motion carried by unanimous voice vote; Beauchamp and Semon
absent.
13. ADJOURNMENT TO JANUARY 12, 1993 AT 7:00 A.M. AT THE YAKIMA
CENTER FOR INFORMAL DISCUSSION
Following completion of the Executive Session, the meeting
was adjourned at 4:50 p.m.
READ AND CERTIFIED ACCURATE BY: C!i % _ �
CO■ CIL MEMBER DATE
' 2 1 g
At1�/ /� fir' 3
COUNCIL MEM: R DATE
ATTEST:
„ „4',/„--,d,"
CITY CLERK MAYOR
MINUTES PREPARED BY DEPUTY CITY CLERK SKOVALD.
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