HomeMy WebLinkAbout06/07/1994 Business Meeting 303
CITY OF YAKIMA, WASHINGTON
JUNE 7, 1994
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, Mayor Pat Berndt,
presiding, Council Members Clarence Barnett, Henry
Beauchamp, Ernie Berger, Bill Brado, Lynn Buchanan, and
Bernard Sims present on call. City Manager Zais, City
Attorney Paolella, and City Clerk Roberts also present.
2. INVOCATION /PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Council Member Sims.
3. OPEN DISCUSSION FOR THE GOOD OF THE ORDER
A. -PROCLAMATIONS (IF APPLICABLE)
None
B.- APPOINTMENT TO CHARTER CITY EMPLOYEES CIVIL SERVICE
COMMISSION
Council Member Sims reported the Civil Service Committee met
recently and interviewed candidates. It was MOVED BY
SIMS, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN, TO APPOINT
BEVERLY WARREN, WITH ST. ELIZABETH'S HOSPITAL, TO
THE CHARTER CITY EMPLOYEES CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION.
The motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
Council Member Buchanan reported the ISTEA Transportation
Enhancement Fund Committee recently approved projects in the
Valley. The YVCOG received approximately $150,000 of
additional ISTEA funding, which will add trails to the Lower
Valley and in the City of Yakima. Mayor Berndt was pleased
to learn there is a head start on the funding for the
1/ pathway covering.
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.
There was a general consensus to remove Items Nos. 12 and 19
from the Consent Agenda. The City Clerk then read the
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Consent Agenda items, including resolutions and ordinances
by title. It was MOVED BY BUCHANAN, SECONDED BY SIMS,
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 MAY 24, 1994 ADJOURNED AND
BUSINESS MEETINGS
The minutes of the May 24, 1994 Adjourned and Business
meetings, were approved, having been duly certified accurate
by two Council members and no one present wishing to have
said minutes read publicly.
6. AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION
On behalf of the Sunrise Rotary Club and the Greenway,
Bo Hepler presented a plaque honoring Parks and Recreation
employees for their participation in building the McGuire.
Playground and Sunrise Rotary Park recently. Dave Flaherty,
Parks and Recreation Manager, introduced the employees and
complimented their decision making ability and recognized
their effort in this project.
A. ALL AMERICA CITIES PRESENTATION
Curtis King reported the All America Cities team will make
its presentation in California on June llth. He thanked the
Council for their assistance and then delivered the same 10-
minute presentation that will be presented to the panel of
judges during the competition.
Ken Clark requested Council consider building a sports -
softball complex in Yakima to accommodate tournaments. He
explained there are other cities the size of Yakima that
have these revenue - making facilities for their area. He
requested this idea be added to either the Bond Issue or as
a separate issue. After a considerable amount of
discussion, questions, and comments, staff was directed to
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research costs and financing options.
Council Member Barnett brought up an issue that he forgot to
mention under the GOOD OF THE ORDER. The 133rd Army Band
will be performing in Yakima for two concerts on Tuesday,
June 21st. The first concert will be at Sarg Hubbard Park;
the second at the Nazarene Church on 40th Avenue.
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7. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SUBMISSION OF FEDERAL
ENTERPRISE COMMUNITY APPLICATION 'GRANT PROGRAM
Glenn Valenzuela, Director of Community and Economic
Development, described the community wide effort to write
the Federal Enterprise Community Application. In the
Northwest there are only six cities applying, including the
City of Tacoma, the City of Seattle, Pierce County, the City
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of Portland, Oregon, the City of Spokane, and the City of
Yakima. If approved Council Member Buchanan, Assistant
Mayor Barnett, and Assistant City Manager Rice are scheduled
to hand deliver the application to HUD in Washington D.C. on
June 10th. Council Member Barnett suggested the staff
summary accompany the application because it does a good job
of clarifying this issue.
At the request of Council Member Sims, Mr. Valenzuela
explained why the City is asking for this designation and
its possible benefits. Mr. Valenzuela listed several
benefits, including tax benefits for those companies wishing
to locate in the designated areas listed in the application.
Businesses would receive immediate tax credits; they would
receive employee tax credits and would receive tax credits
for capital investment. For the City of Yakima, it would
mean an automatic $3 million from Health and Human Services
to be utilized for programs -- from job training to business
incubators -- that affect low to moderate income people.
Hopefully, there will be assistance with projects such as
the irrigation system. Additionally, anywhere from $10 -20
million has been set aside, by other U.S. Government
departments for Enterprise Communities. Mr. Valenzuela also
explained HUD officials have indicated it is highly possible
that the communities not accepted during the first round
will be accepted for additional funds that have been
restructured and allocated at HUD and other offices.
Council Member Barnett asked what the prognosis is for this
application since the City of Yakima has been designated a
State Empowerment Zone. Mr. Valenzuela explained its
significance; there are only five communities in Washington
that have the state empowerment zone designation, and only
two, Seattle and Tacoma, have applied for Federal Enterprise
Community status. It is anticipated that the timetable will
be early fall for designation to communities that have been
1/) successful.
Mr. Valenzuela recognized the strong team effort put forth,
particularly from Vaugh McBride, Associate Planner, as well
as the Engineering & Utilities Department, Public Works, the
Parks and Recreation Division, along with participation from
the public and private sectors in putting together the many
facets of the application. Council Member Beauchamp noted
there is a County effort underway to get a rural designation
in the Lower Valley.
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Resolution No. R -94 -66 having been read by title, it was
MOVED BY SIMS, SECONDED BY BUCHANAN, TO ADOPT THE
RESOLUTION. The motion carried by a 6 -0 roll call vote;
Beauchamp abstaining.
RESOLUTION NO. R 94 - 66, A RESOLUTION authorizing and
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directing the City Manager of the City of Yakima to file an
application with the Department of Housing and Urban
Development for designation as an Urban Enterprise Community.
8. REPORT FROM CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS CITIZENS COMMITTEE REGARDING
PROPOSED 1994 BOND ISSUES: FIRE, STREETS AND PARKS AND
REQUEST FOR LEGISLATION CALLING FOR ELECTION
City Manager Zais and Assistant City Manager Rice referred to
the year -long effort resulting in the Citizens Capital
Improvement Committee findings and recommendations for the
Fire, Streets and Parks Bond issues. Prior to making its
recommendations, the Citizens Capital Improvement Committee
held a series of public meetings, listened to 'staff
presentations, and participated in a YCTV television program
to explain the proposed bond issues. Mr. Zais directed
Council's attention to a correction in the project lists.
Although the bond dollar amounts remain the same, there are
corrections within the numbers themselves. Mr. Rice thanked
the Council for their vision in establishing and selecting
the committee to review capital improvement needs for the
City. He then introduced members of the Committee. Mr. Rice
explained the recommendations will be forwarded for citizen
vote in November as three separate bond issues for Fire,
Parks, and Street Capital Improvements which total $18.5
million. Staff from the Fire Department, Parks Division, and
the Streets Division were present to answer any questions
Council had. Council Member Barnett emphasized that the
three bond issues scheduled on the ballot in November will be
separately listed to allow individual voter choice. Mr. Rice
explained the Citizen's Promotion Committee, to be selected,
will organize and promote such issues.
Janet Snodgrass, Committee Co- Chair, thanked Council for the
opportunity to serve, not just the City Council, but the
citizens. She explained the Committee investigated the
genuine needs for a portion of the infrastructure of the
City. She urged Council to go forward with all three
projects.
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Abe Gonzales, Committee Co- Chair, described his tenure on the
Citizens Capital Improvement Committee as exciting and
educational. He described the consideration process used to
reflect priorities and thereby determining their final
recommendations for the bond issues.
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Council Member Berger,,was impressed with the volunteer effort
and the hard work involved by "the'Committee and supports the
aspect of the volunteer committee that will explain the
issues to the voters. Council Member Beauchamp stated he,
too, thought the Committee did a good job researching the
I/ issues and making their recommendations. He would have liked
to have seen a greater level of citizen participation at the
various public meetings and suggested further opportunity be
provided for additional public input. Mr. Rice explained the
citizen promotion committee will be available to speak to any
group or organization, providing further opportunities for
citizen input. City Manager Zais emphasized the importance
of public involvement and awareness to promote a good,
successful campaign. It was MOVED BY BERGER, SECONDED BY
BUCHANAN, TO ACCEPT STAFF'S THREE RECOMMENDATIONS
WHICH ARE TO ACCEPT THE PROPOSALS AS PRESENTED, AND
PREPARE THE APPROPRIATE LEGISLATION, AND GET THE
COMMITTEE ORGANIZED. The motion carried by unanimous
voice vote. Mayor Berndt thanked all who participated in
this process. Council Member Barnett stated the Committee
eliminated several of the major items he had objections to
and modified them to a degree to make it more palatable.
Mr. Rice encouraged staff and the committee to help the
people learn about the issues to make Yakima the best
neighborhood and vote accordingly. . Mayor Berndt reminded
everyone the video that explains these issues will be shown
immediately following the Council meeting. City Manager Zais
introduced Al Chronister, Fire Chief. Chief Chronister asked
for support of the Bond Issue. This is an excellent product
to put before the voters.,that=t only meets today's needs,
but addresses, future issues. Mayor Berndt congratulated
Chief Chronister as he leads the Fire Department through the
next few years.
9. REPORT ON STREET IMPROVEMENTS TO 18TH STREET, CHALMERS AND
RIVERSIDE
With the aid of a location map, Shelley Willson, Supervising
Traffic Engineer, reviewed existing conditions of the 18th,
Riverside, Chalmers and Beech Street corridor. She described
the road structure as being narrow with raveling roadway
edges and lacking road improvements with no sidewalks, curbs,
gutters, or bike paths. These streets have a relatively low
I/ daily traffic volume; however, they have a high percentage of
truck traffic along with increased traffic volume during
special events at Sarg Hubbard Park and the Greenway. She
also explained the "S" curves that people refer to are
actually intersections and will appear and act as
intersections with new roadways and alignment in the area.
She also referred to the narrow Beech Street underpass at I-
82.
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JUNE 7, 1994
Joan Davenport, Supervising Planner, reviewed recent
commercial development in the area including the Wal -Mart
retail center, the Washington State Fruit Commission
application for a new office building and visitor center, a
new hotel under construction, as well as additional
commercial development expected to occur in the next few
years. Ms. Davenport also explained street improvements are
necessary to accommodate the type and volume of traffic
anticipated as the area develops. Although an engineering
study has not been done, it is very clear a street survey is
needed to establish exact edges of the right -of -way due to
current misalignment of the road. A street design needs to
be done to determine the amount of right -of -way required
because some of the existing right -of -way is only 45 feet
wide. Staff recommends that the street be improved to urban
standards rather than rural standards so that it has a curb
and a sidewalk with consideration given to bike paths.
Because the City owns the park property with about 600 feet
of frontage on 18th Street, it will also have to participate
in the improvement to 18th Street. Ms. Davenport outlined
five funding options for these frontage improvements along
the park property. They include: (1) Develop improvements
as new construction projects occur, (2) formation of a Local
Improvement District for the street projects, (3) developer
contributions, (4) add roadway to 6 -Year TIP /CIP; and (5)
allocate Gas Tax funds. -
Ms. Davenport explained the recommendation from staff
includes directing staff to prepare a design for what is
necessary, part of which would be to prepare a right -of -way
acquisition plan. Problem areas need to be identified.
There are some areas along the street corridor that are of a
higher safety importance than other areas, in particular, the
"S" curves that are actually intersections. Funding options
need to be discussed with affected property owners. Staff
could probably get back to Council in about a six -month
period.
Council Member Brado stated these improvements are needed as
soon as possible. There was a brief discussion concerning
the Suburban Residential (SR) zoning of this property along
with the possibility of changing the zoning to accommodate
commercial development since the property has been removed
from floodplain designation. Council Member Brado stated an
LID might interest property owners because it will more than
likely enhance the value of their property if the streets are
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improved.
There was discussion among Council members and staff
concerning the cost of a survey from Terrace Heights Way to
Beech Street where it intersects with 10th Street. Mayor
Berndt asked if that would be part of step one in the
completion of the design. In response to a question from
Council Member Sims, Dennis Covell, Director of Engineering
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and Utilities, explained a survey is needed in order to
determine what right =of -way `'exis'ts and where it is; what
segment of the road is in it; and then to develop alignment
to determine right -of -way needs; and then to do a design for
the project. That is why a six -month time period is
requested because City forces would be doing the work. There
was additional discussion concerning the estimated manhour
cost versus how much it would cost to hire a survey team
because the construction inspection activity level for the
City's survey crew is full.
Council Member Sims asked what is the projected sales tax
receipt on the construction of Wal -Mart, the development of
the Fruit Commission Building, and any other improvements
slated for that area. Mr. Covell suggested the answer to
that question be asked of the Finance Department.
To answer a question from Council Member Beauchamp,
Mr. Covell explained standard City access street improvements
are normally about 40 feet wide with curb and gutters,
sidewalk, water, sewer, drainage, and illumination. Because
it is going to be part of the City system, City standards
must be met.
Council Member Barnett commented if this needs to be
expedited, then it maybe better to contract out the survey.
He asked Mr. Covell whether funds would be available in the
Department budget to cover the expense to hire a consultant
to do the survey. Mr. Covell stated there may be a surplus
at the end of this year. Mayor Berndt stated this will still
require involvement by the Supervising Traffic Engineer and
the City Engineer. Mr. Covell explained there will still be
that involvement only it can get done faster with outside
assistance; however, a consultant will be more expensive.
Council Member Buchanan directed staff to ask some of the
local survey businesses how much they would charge the City
to do the survey.
In response to a question from Council Member Buchanan,
Mr. Covell explained the current right -of -way situation in
I/ this corridor where there is a hodge podge of rights -of -ways.
Normally, the minimum requirement for access street right -of-
way is 50 feet with easements on either side to accommodate
sidewalks and utilities; the 50 feet is the bare minimum area
for actual street construction. Council Member Buchanan also
referred to two corners located in this corridor that will
need a major increase in radius. Mr. Covell agreed and
explained they will require wider than normal right-of-way.
Another issue that will have to be considered is the street
design for surfacing depths. They will be much thicker
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because of accommodation for turn radius for width and for
surfacing depth to take the truck loading impacts on the
pavement. After comments from Council members concerning the
need to expedite this, it was MOVED BY BARNETT, SECONDED
BY BERGER, TO DIRECT STAFF TO EXPEDITE THIS
IMMEDIATELY BY GOING OUTSIDE FOR ASSISTANCE TO GET
THE SURVEY, THE DESIGN, AND THE RIGHT -OF -WAY ISSUES
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RESOLVED. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote.
Mr. Covell explained a request for proposals from consultants
can be made once the work to be done is identified and then
the proposals would be reviewed and a recommendation made to
Council. To address a concern expressed by Council
Member Beauchamp, Mr. Covell also explained how they would
detour traffic to avoid closing the freeway when doing the
improvements to the Beech Street /I -82 underpass.
10. SET DATE OF PUBLIC MEETING OR HEARING FOR JULY 5, . 1994 TO
CONSIDER HEARING EXAMINER RECOMMENDATION ON REZONE OF
PROPERTY IN VICINITY OF SO. 61ST AVE. - SO. 63RD AVE. AND
SUMMITVIEW
Mayor Berndt explained the issue is whether to set a date of
public meeting or public hearing. Council Member Barnett
stated it appears that the normal process should be followed
because there is no way of knowing if additional public
testimony is needed until Council has reviewed the Hearing
Examiner's report and testimony has been heard.
Bruce Benson, Associate Planner, explained this option was
brought to Council at the request of the applicant so he may
submit additional information. There was further discussion
concerning the applicant's request. City Attorney Paolella
explained the normal procedure would be to have a public
meeting. He emphasized the option available in the public
meeting process where Council can remand it back to the
Hearing Examiner under certain circumstances. Council Member
Barnett recommended July 5th be set as the date of public
meeting. He asked City Manager Zais if the July 5th agenda
was going to be lengthy. Mr. Zais stated he was going to
offer for Council consideration at the end of the meeting the
possibility of setting a summer schedule through the month of
August for the Council that would involve two business
meetings per month rather than four. There was discussion
concerning an abbreviated Council meeting schedule for the
summer months. Council Member Sims made a recommendation to
conduct business meetings on June 21, July 5, July 19,
August 9 and August 23.
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Getting back to the issue at hand, Mayor Berndt stated the
issue is still public meeting versus public hearing. It was
MOVED BY BUCHANAN, SECONDED BY BARNETT, THAT JULY 5,
1994 BE SET FOR DATE OF PUBLIC MEETING. The motion
carried by unanimous voice vote.
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*11. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF RENEWAL
AGREEMENT WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY FOR UTILIZATION OF
FIRING RANGE
I/ RESOLUTION NO. R- 94 -67, A RESOLUTION authorizing and
directing the City Manager and the City Clerk of the City of
Yakima to execute an agreement with the Department of the
Army for a license to utilize a firing range at the Yakima
Firing Center.
12. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION APPROVING CONTINGENT LOAN
AGREEMENT FOR THE YAKIMA HOUSING AUTHORITY
Council Member Brado requested this item be removed from the
Consent Agenda so more information could be presented,
particularly how this project would benefit the citizens of
the City of Yakima.
Glenn Valenzuela, Director of Community and Economic
Development, explained this request is actually a request for
Council to approve the concept of the draft Contingent Loan
Agreement by adopting the proposed resolution. If approved,
the legal staff will negotiate modifications to it and will
bring the document back to Council in its final form. The
Housing Authority needs a show of support from the City
Council to obtain financing from the State Housing Trust
Commission. Council Member Brado stated he didn't know how
the Council can be expected : to support a concept when it
doesn't know what that concept is.
Jim Adamski, Director of the Yakima Housing Authority,
outlined the program which will provide affordable housing
for people below 50 percent of median income. He" further
explained this proposal was initiated by the private sector
and will be owned cooperatively by the Housing Authority and
the private investors. The area to be developed is below
16th Avenue and will not only address overcrowded conditions,
but will also provide jobs for low - income people. The
contractor will hire from the Housing Authority
apprenticeship program. When it is developed it will be
owned by the Housing Authority, managed by the Housing
Authority as a general partner and a limited partnership with
I/ whoever syndicated the tax credit. Mr. Adamski then read a
list of those officials, entities, and organizations who
support this concept. He outlined the amount of rent for the
one, two, and three bedroom units and provided more
information about how they will be financed. There were
questions from Council Member Barnett concerning the
alternatives and options contained in the Draft Contingent
Loan Agreement. Mr. Adamski provided additional explanation
concerning the fact the property will remain on the tax
rolls. The City's exposure in this request includes a
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contingent loan agreement where the City will guarantee
$133,000. Mr. Adamski answered questions from Council Member
Brado concerning the federal tax credit incentives of this
proposed project. City Attorney Paolella provided legal
explanation as to the City's role being that of a guarantor
and the Housing Authority's compliance as it relates to
competitive and public bidding requirements for this project.
At the request of Council Member Brado, Mr. Adamski again
explained the income guideline amounts for the rental units.
Council Member Beauchamp encouraged cross cultural hiring in
order to open avenues into some of the skill areas. He also
commended the Housing Authority for envisioning a project
like this and encouraged that they be well maintained. Mayor
Berndt emphasized the importance of keeping the property on
the tax rolls and also the importance of tax credits.
Council Member Brado explained there is a lot of current
construction and government is competing with the private
sector in the housing market.
David Lemmon, State Representative from 14th District,
expressed his support of the project and the need to increase
opportunities for affordable rental units, as well as
availability. There was additional discussion concerning
financing available to the private sector.
Bob Wardell, Wardell Architects, brought drawings and
explained the site plan for an 8 -unit building proposed along
9th and D Streets. It is a small site, so the unit sizes
have been limited to six two - bedroom units and two one -
bedroom units. There was a considerable amount of discussion
among Council members and Mr. Wardell about the proposed
project.
Dan Tilley spoke in favor of the project and emphasized the
need for availability of private sector financing for more
than four units. He also discussed development and the need
to facilitate affordable housing.
Referring to the site drawing, Council Member Beauchamp
explained it is hard to evaluate quality. He expressed
concern about the quality of the building materials.
Mr. Tilley indicated they are staking their reputation on the
quality of these units and plan to construct other projects.
The Housing Authority won't accept something that is
substandard because they have to maintain it for the life of
the loan. Mr. Wardell explained complete drawings and
specifications will be provided that will guide this
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construction.
Council Member Barnett referred to the language on the second
page of the draft ordinance in the Council Packet indicating
the City will pay the debt service on the bonds, which he
does not want in the ordinance. Mayor Berndt directed staff
to take care of that. Mr. Paolella stated the ordinance will
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come back later for passage. Council Member Barnett stated
his point was that iie`doesn't"warit "to be in a position later
where somebody will say Council already reviewed this and
didn't request any changes.
I/ Dan Arnett, 312 North 67th Avenue, stated one of these
projects will be built about five blocks from his location.
Although he is not against affordable housing, he referenced
portions of the CHAS document concerning the definition of
unsafe housing; he considers the definition as misleading.
Mr. Arnett also referred to HUD income guidelines used to
qualify housing applicants, specifically the 50 percent of
median income level guideline. He stated there is a true
need to supply affordable housing in Yakima, particularly to
those who are homeless. He further urged the Council to put
its resources to help the very low income, specifically to
those people in the 30 percent of median income range.
Mr. Adamski explained the guidelines allow for 50 percent and
below, which does include those in the 30 percent below
median group.
Resolution No. R -94 -68 having been read by title, it was
MOVED BY BEAUCHAMP, SECONDED BY SIMS, TO ADOPT THE
RESOLUTION. The motion carried by 6 -1 roll call vote;
Brado voting nay. Council Member Brado stated this issue is
best addressed by the private sector. Council Member Barnett
emphasized the point brought up by Mr. Arnett as being very
significant and emphasis should be given in this project to
help that group of people. In the future when housing -
related items are submitted to Council, income guideline
information should include emphasis toward helping that group
of people. Council Member Buchanan suggested emphasis also
needs to be given to solid core doors being installed in
project buildings to help provide safety from break -ins.
Council Member Brado added the new Building Code revision
currently includes this requirement.
RESOLUTION NO. R 94 - 68, A RESOLUTION authorizing and
directing the City Manager of the City of Yakima to execute a
Contingent Loan Agreement with the Yakima Housing Authority
for implementation of the Yakima Housing Authority Housing
Program.
*13. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTIONS RATIFYING APPLICATIONS FOR
I/ PUBLIC WORKS TRUST FUND LOANS FOR WASTEWATER PROJECTS
A. GATEWAY /I -82 PROJECT (FAIR AVENUE)
RESOLUTION NO. R 94 - 69, A RESOLUTION Authorizing the
City Manager to sign all Public Works Trust Fund
applications, loan .agreements and amendments, and other
documents relating to the Gateway /I -82 project for water,
wastewater, and transportation system planning, design and
construction.
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B. WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT REHABILITATION
RESOLUTION NO. R 94 - 70, A RESOLUTION authorizing the
City Manager to sign all applications, loan agreements and
amendments, and other documents relating to Public Works
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Trust Fund wastewater treatment facility planning, design,
and construction.
C. WASTEWATER NEIGHBORHOOD COLLECTION SYSTEM
RESOLUTION NO. R 94 - 71, A RESOLUTION authorizing the
City Manager to sign all applications, loan agreements and
amendments, and other documents relating to Public Works
Trust Fund wastewater collection system planning, design, and
construction.
*14. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF
PROSPECTUS MODIFYING DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION FINANCING FOR
STAGE 1 OF THE GATEWAY PROJECT
RESOLUTION NO. R 94 - 72, A RESOLUTION authorizing the
City Manager to sign all applications and amendments, and
other documents relating to Transportation Improvement
Account Urban Construction Prospectus modifying design and
construction financing of Stage I for the Gateway Project.
*15. APPROVAL OF FINAL DEED FOR CHESTNUT MANOR
The staff recommendation to approve the Statutory Warranty
Deed conveying Chestnut Manor to the Chestnut Manor
Association was accepted.
*16. REPORT FROM DEPARTMENTS OF COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
AND PUBLIC WORKS REGARDING ONGOING PROGRAM FOR NEIGHBORHOOD
AND GRAFFITI CLEAN UP
The report was accepted.
*17. REQUEST FROM COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TO APPROVE STAFF POSITION
FOR COMPLIANCE MONITORING FOR HOPE 3 GRANT PROGRAM
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The staff request to approve an exemption from the hiring
freeze directive by Council and authorize the hiring of an
Accountant for the HOPE 3 program was granted.
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*18. APPROVAL OF FIRST QUARTER 1994 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
REPORT
The First Quarter 1994 Capital Improvement Program Status
Report was accepted and approved.
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19. CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCE AMENDING SPEED LIMIT ON SCENIC DR.
Mayor Berndt and Council Member Barnett requested this item
be removed from the Consent Agenda to discuss changing the
speed limit to 20 mph. Mayor Berndt stated it should be done
in concert with the County. There was discussion among
Council Members and staff concerning the issue of enforcement
as well as their concern about one side of the road being 20
mph and the other side being 35 mph because the City and the
County have joint jurisdiction of this street.
Jeff West, Assistant City Attorney, and Shelley Willson,
Supervising Traffic Engineer, explained the area's location
and described how the road is currently posted; what the
speed limits are including a 15 mph advisory sign which is
posted within the curve.
Referring to the legal memo submitted in the Council packet,
Council Member Barnett asked whether certain engineering and
traffic aspects need to be done. Mr. West explained the
legal requirements, including whether the speed limit is
reasonable and safe under the conditions found in an
engineering and traffic investigation given this particular
situation where the speed limit would be reduced to the
minimum allowed by law. What constitutes an engineering and
traffic investigation appears to have no minimum requirement.
He further explained the reason for the memorandum is to make
Council aware of the situation; he explained his
understanding that there was an expedited investigation
already done. There was continued discussion concerning what
constitutes a limited investigation. Shelley Willson briefly
outlined the results of their limited investigation.
Jennifer Rennie, a concerned mother, citizen and
representative of approximately 60 concerned residents,
reported the results of their meeting with the County. The
County had indicated they will study the request to reduce
I/ the speed limit on this road, where the City and County have
joint jurisdiction. She described how fast the traffic
travels on this street. She explained they hope the traffic
will be reduced, the people will slow down so that it will be
a safer place for the kids. Mayor Berndt reiterated her
earlier comment and explained that just because the speed
limit is posted does not mean it will change how fast people
drive. She also explained she would like to be a part of
finding out a way to truly slow people down; she didn't know
whether the Yakima Police Department radar detection units
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JUNE 7, 1994
can be involved, or what plan Traffic Engineering might
develop, but she didn't want the residents lulled into a
sense that just because the speed limit has been reduced, the
problem has been solved. Ms. Rennie explained their group
has been working with the Police Department about the issue
and they've used radar guns and radar boxes to determine
speeds on this street. She described this as a real safety
issue. Council Member Beauchamp suggested putting up a sign
that says speed checked by radar because that might help
motorists check their speed.
Pleas Green, Police Chief, provided the results of the brief
emphasis patrols done in the area.
Because of the extremely hazardous corners and poor
visibility, Mayor Berndt directed staff that as this process
begins, perhaps some money could be used to at least widen
one of the road or add an extra walkway for pedestrians
to get out of the mainstream of traffic. Chief Green
explained the periodic monitoring and the Neighborhood Speed
Watch program perhaps could continue.
Richard Sprawl suggested speed bumps and stop signs be
installed to help address this problem. Because traffic will
generally take the path of least resistance, he also
suggested Council consider utilizing alternate thoroughfares
to attract the traffic, or perhaps raising the speed limit on
40th Avenue and Summitview to attract traffic away from this
area.
Helen Riehl, 714 North 56th Avenue, also commented about the
shortcut motorists take through this neighborhood by going up
66th Avenue and then down Scenic Drive, down Pecks Canyon and
then either travel toward Fred Meyers or White Pass in order
to miss four stop lights. Another route also includes 53rd
and 58th Avenues. She also suggested a three -way stop sign
be installed on 58th Avenue because motorists travel too fast
for the curve. She compared Scenic Drive to Summitview that
has the same speed limit, but is a straight road with good
visibility and sidewalks. Scenic Drive has blind curves, no
sidewalks or paths for walking or riding a bicycle, and there
are a lot of small children there.
Ordinance No. 94 -27 having been read by title it was MOVED
BY BUCHANAN, SECONDED BY SIMS, TO ADOPT THE
ORDINANCE. The motion carried by a unanimous roll . call
vote. Mayor Berndt directed staff to look at the traffic
patterns that have been explained and see if there is some
way to make it possibly less attractive for people to choose
that route, and the new committee should consider it as well.
Mayor Berndt further commented that perhaps some way a path
can be provided and directed the information compiled from
this study be provided to Council. If it is possible to add
stop signs, please do so.
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JUNE .7, 1994
Council Member Barnett also directed staff to study the
situation at Bonnie Doone from 16th to 17th Avenue concerning
no parking enforcement issues on the street across from YVC.
He further commented that it was the understanding of the
residents of this neighborhood that when the parking lot went
in the area was rezoned, there would be no parking on that
side of the street. He suggested signs be installed, and the
enforcement issues concerning parking and blocking the alley
be addressed. When this area was rezoned for the parking
lot, it was the understanding of the citizens of the area
they would not object to the parking lot if there was no
parking on that side of the street; otherwise, no parking on
either side of the street between 16th and 18th Avenues might
need to be considered.
ORDINANCE NO. 94 - 27, AN ORDINANCE relating to traffic;
designating speed limits; reducing the speed limit on Scenic
Drive from thirty -five to twenty miles per hour and amending
Section 9.50.370 B and E all of the City of Yakima Municipal
Code.
*20. FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE AMENDING THE 1994 BUDGET AND
APPROPRIATING FUNDS FOR THE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ADVOCATE GRANT
(NO COUNCIL ACTION REQUIRED THIS MEETING)
An Ordinance amending the 1994 Budget and appropriating funds
for the Domestic Violence Advocate Grant, having been read by
title only, was laid on the table for two weeks, until
. June 21, 1994.
*21. FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE AMENDING THE 1994 BUDGET AND
APPROPRIATING FUNDS FOR SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMS (NO COUNCIL
ACTION REQUIRED THIS MEETING)
An Ordinance amending the 1994 Budget and appropriating . funds
for the Parks and Recreation Summer Youth Programs
(Developmental Day Camp, Washington Service Corps Youth
la Companion Program, Washington Service Corps Youth Safety Team
and additional Summer Day Camps), having been read by title
only, was laid on the table for two weeks, until June 21,
1994.
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JUNE 7, 1994
22. OTHER BUSINESS
There was discussion among Council members and staff
concerning consideration of an abbreviated Council meeting
schedule for the summer months. It was MOVED BY BRADO,
SECONDED BY SIMS, TO ADOPT AN ABBREVIATED MEETING
SCHEDULE FOR THE SUMMER MONTHS. THE DATES OF THE
MEETINGS ARE JUNE 21, JULY 5, JULY 19, AUGUST 9 AND
AUGUST 23, 1994. The motion carried by unanimous voice
vote. City Manager Zais explained this schedule would also
include scheduled adjourned meetings as well as a prepared
information packet distributed weekly, including the Council
Calendar.
Council Member Beauchamp, Council Representative on the DARC,
indicated there is a need to address the parking situation in
the downtown area. It was MOVED BY BEAUCHAMP, SECONDED
BY BRADO, TO INSTRUCT STAFF TO DEVELOP PARKING AS A
DOWNTOWN PRIORITY AND DEDICATE SOME STAFF TIME TO
COME UP WITH SOME RESEARCH AND DETERMINE WHAT IT WILL
TAKE TO RESPOND TO PARKING NEEDS DOWNTOWN,
PARTICULARLY IN THE GENERAL AREA OF THE CAPITOL
THEATRE. The motion passed by unanimous voice vote.
Council Member Buchanan commented about Council committee
appointments and attendance at committee meetings. He also
questioned his role in the airport radar control issue.
Information Items:
Items of information provided to Council were: Memorandum
from Director of Public Works and Parks and Recreation
Manager regarding Powerhouse Canal Pathway. 6/2/94;
Memorandum from Wastewater Superintendent regarding General
Fruit Packers Permit Training. 6/1/94; Monthly Annexation
Status Report for May 1994; Traffic Engineering Citizen
Request and Activity Report for May 1994; Assignments
Pending in Office of Environmental Planning as of June 7,
1994; Monthly Office of Housing and Neighborhood
Conservation Report for May 1994; City of Yakima Rebound
Plus Monthly Report for May 1994; Permit Center Monthly
Report for May 1994; Trolley Ridership Report for May 1994;
1/
Hearing Examiner Agenda for June 9, 1994 meeting;
Memorandum from Legal Department regarding Damage Claims
Referred to Insurance Company. 6/2/94; Minutes of the
May 5, 1994 Yakima Valley Regional Transportation Planning
Organization Technical Advisory Committee meeting; Minutes
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319
• JUNE 7, 1994
of the May 4, 1994 Yakima Valley PTBA Board of Directors
meeting; Letter from Departmerit''of Ecology regarding water
rights applications priority decisions and Focus New Water
Resource Emphasis; Washington State Tourism Bulletin. May
1994; Notice of Videoconference, The President's Economic
Adjustment Initiative, June 23, 1994; Article from EPA
Watch, "Lawmakers Under Pressure to Address Unfunded
Mandates Issue "; and Article from May 23, 1994 Nation's
Cities Weekly, "NLC Intensifies Anti - Mandate Effort on
Capitol Hill."
23. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 4: 0 p.m. /
READ AND CERTIFIED ACCURATE BY: .+ I . 1 .i � Ike �.. , . 4 b20° �
Ott; �'i R DATE
(154_At.-ji 6-1C9--10-7y
COUNCIL MBER DATE
ATTEST:
/
CITY CLERK MAYOR �jz„ , / „,a'7
•
Minutes prepared by Deputy City Clerk Skovald. An audio and video tape of this meeting are
available in the City Clerk's Office
I/
17