HomeMy WebLinkAbout02/19/2008 00 Agenda and Packet <� " David Edler, Mayor
t� �'', Micah Cawley, Assistant Mayor
"' f Y akima Kathy Coffey 3
Ctt Council Rick Ensey
° 'a, , < 1 Norm Johnson
R,. ° �a _., Agenda
Bill Lover
129 N. 2nd Street,Yakima,WA.98901 Neil McClure
Phone: (509) 575 -6000 • Fax (509) 576 -6614 ' City Manager
Email: ccouncil @ci.yakima.wa.us • www.ci.yakima.wa.us Richard A. Zais, Jr.
Anyone wishing to address the Council, please fill out the form found on the tables and give it to the City Clerk
SPECIAL MEETING / STUDY SESSION
FEBRUARY 19, 2008
8 :00 -9.30 A.M.
COUNCIL CHAMBERS - YAKIMA CITY HALL
1. Roll Call
2. Continuation of January 26 Council retreat discussions
- Council Committees
- Television coverage of committee meetings
- Authority and responsibilities of committees
- Utilization of committee recommendations
- Staff attendance at committee meetings
- Challenges & Opportunities
- Prioritize tasks, initiatives, etc.
= Assign key issues to Council committees
3. Audience. Comments
4. Other Business
5. Adjournment
Yakima
. teal
The mission of the City ofYakima is to: focus on preserving and improving public safety, promote a regional
approach to services; act as a catalyst for economic development; and, build a positive image of the community. 11 1
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KENO ° H_/UN
To: Hon. Mayor Dave Edler and City Council Members
From: City Manager Dick Zais
Community Relations Manager Randy Beehler
Subject: February 19 City Council Study Session
Date: February 14, 2008
•
Mayor Edler and Council Members,
The Council's next study session (Tuesday, February 19, 8:00 am, Council Chambers) will
provide the opportunity for the Council to continue discussions begun during its January 26
retreat. Items related to Council committees, such as television coverage of meetings, staff
attendance at meetings, utilization of committee recommendations, and committee
responsibilities, which were not fully addressed at the retreat, will be revisited. A specific focus
of the study session will be the prioritization of the tasks, initiatives, etc. contained in the
"Challenges & Opportunities" report which was first presented at the retreat.
In preparation for your February 19 study session, please review the attached information:
1) The study session agenda
2) A memo (and additional material) from Community Relations Manager Randy
Beehler re: Council committee meeting television coverage options
3) The complete "Challenges & Opportunities" report, which was included in your
retreat information packet
3) A condensed version of the "Challenges & Opportunities" report with tasks,
initiatives, etc. listed by title only (narratives not included)
As was discussed at the Council's January 26 retreat, prioritization by the Council of tasks,
initiatives, etc. provides critical guidance to City administration and City staff when developing
work plans and allocating resources. During next Tuesday's study session, the Council will use
a simple system utilized by numerous other groups to assign priority designations to the items
contained in the "Challenges & Opportunities" report:
- Each Council member will be provided with 15 red and 15 blue adhesive "dots."
- Red dots will designate "Highest" priorities, blue dots with designate "High" priorities.
- Items from the "Challenges & Opportunities" report will be listed by title only on large
boards that will be placed in the Council Chambers.
- Each Council member can use up to 3 red dots and 3 blue dots in each Strategic
Direction Priority category (i.e. Community Safety, Quality of Life, etc.).
- Each Council member can place only 1 dot (either red or blue) next to a given
"Challenges & Opportunities" report item.
- Items with 5 or more red dots will receive "Highest Priority" designations. Items with 4
or more blue dots will receive "High Priority" designations.
- Council discussion will follow the making of initial priority designations
More explanation of the "dots" prioritization system will be provided at the study session, but
those are the basics.
Other items not fully addressed during the Council retreat may also be discussed during the
February 19 study session, time permitting.
Please contact either of us if you need more information prior to next Tuesday's study session.
fl E C o ° HBUU J
To: Hon. Mayor Dave Edler and City Council Members
From: Community Relations Manager Randy Beehler
Subject: Council Committee Meeting Television Coverage
Date: February 14, 2008
Mayor Edler and Council Members,
At your January 26 retreat, you asked the Community Relations Division to research
the possibility of equipping the CED conference room on the 2nd floor of City Hall so that
Council committee meetings could be telecast and /or taped from that location. Attached
is summary information concerning two systems that would achieve that goal, albeit in
different ways and at varying costs.
Also included in the attached information is a third option involving use of existing
equipment in the Council Chambers.
For each option, we've provided the basic system elements, estimated cost, expected
timeline for purchasing and installation processes to be completed, and, from the
perspective of the Community Relations staff, some advantages and disadvantages.
Additionally, a summation narrative is also included for each option.
As per Council direction, the two CED conference room options represent scaled -down
versions of the audio /video system currently in use in the Council Chambers.
Accordingly, the investment for either of the CED conference room systems presented
would be less than what was required for the existing Council Chambers set up.
Resources are available from the Cable Communications Fund to cover the cost of
either potential CED conference room system.
Unlike the other two options, Option 1 would allow for simultaneous meeting coverage in
the CED conference room and the Council Chambers. Having another room in City Hall
outfitted with audio and video equipment could address potential meeting scheduling
conflicts.
During your February 19 study session, we can discuss each option in greater detail.
The attached information is simply intended to provide you with an outline of what our
division staff has found during its initial research.
Please let me know if you have any questions prior to next Tuesday's study session. I
look forward to talking about how we can make Council committee meetings a part of
Y.-PAC's regular programming schedule.
Yakima City Council
Committee Meeting
Television Coverage Options
Option 1
CED Conference Room - Fixed camera /mobile switcher /recorder system
- System Elements
- 3 wall- mounted cameras
- 4 table -top microphones
- Audio mixer
- Mobile "Tri- Caster" computerized switcher /recorder
- Estimated Cost
- $15,000
- Timeline
- 3 -4 months
- Some Advantages
- "Tri- Caster" element of the system could be used in other locations
- Would allow for simultaneous meeting coverage in Council
Chambers and CED conference room
- Fits into long -range Y -PAC equipment plans
- Some Disadvantages
- Limited camera control (pan, tilt only...no zoom capabilities)
- Some pre- meeting set up required
- Summation Narrative
This option provides similar capabilities to that of the existing Y -PAC
remote system with the added advantage of fixed, wall- mounted
cameras. The limited camera control capacity of this option is
worthy of note, but should not affect its consideration. This option
would provide good quality audio and video, and the potential of
being able to use the "Tri- Caster" element of this option in other
locations makes it cost effective.
1
Yakima City Council
Committee Meeting
Television Coverage Options
Option 2
CED Conference Room "Toastmaster" system extension
- System Elements
- 3 wall- mounted cameras
- 4 table -top microphones
- Camera control extension cables
- Audio extension cables
- Existing "Toastmaster" control system (in use for Council Chambers)
- Estimated Cost
- $10,000
- Timeline
- 3 months.
- Some Advantages
- Makes use of existing "Toastmaster" control system in use for
Council Chambers
- Full camera control capability
- No pre - meeting set up required
- Some Disadvantages
- Would not allow for simultaneous meeting coverage in Council
Chambers and CED conference room
- Distance between operator and meeting room makes
communication challenging
- Fixed nature of the system limits use to conference room only
- Summation Narrative
This option takes advantage of the investment already made in
equipment used to telecast meetings from the Council Chambers.
The existing "Toastmaster" system would be used to control both the
cameras and microphones in the CED conference room. Both
efficient and cost effective, this option would provide high quality
audio and; video.
2
Yakima City Council
Committee Meeting
Television Coverage Options
Option 3
Existing Council Chamber / "Horseshoe" Extension System
- System Elements
- 4 wall- mounted cameras
- 15 individual microphones (could be expanded)
- Integrated audio /video /computer capabilities
- "Toastmaster" control system
- Existing folding tables (closed Horseshoe)
* - Segmented folding tables to complete Horseshoe oval
•
- Estimated Cost
- $ 0
* - $ 3000
- Timeline
- Immediate
* - 1 month
- Some Advantages
- Makes use of existing system designed for meeting coverage
- Provides highest quality audio and video
- Allows for immediate implementation of committee coverage
- Some Disadvantages
- Would not allow for simultaneous meeting coverage in Council
Chambers and CED conference room
* - Would require some pre- meeting set up
- Summation Narrative
This option'takes advantage of the investment already made in the
equipment used to telecast meetings from the Council Chambers.
In the configuration used for study sessions, budget hearings, etc.,
the system can accommodate 15 meeting participants. With the
addition of segmented folding tables, the Horseshoe could be
extended to form a complete oval and accommodate many more
meeting participants. This option provides the highest quality audio
and video and would allow for immediate implementation of
Council committee meeting coverage.
3
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City of Yakima
Challenqes /Opportunities in 2008 ( and Beyond)
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Ensu r e �t hat necessary resources�are,avarlable in orde(ttto preserve and enh ance
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fire protection : and emergency response capabilities
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4. Safe Community Action Plan
- In 2007, the City Council approved Phase 1 of the Safe Community Action
Plan ( "SCAP ") which utilized existing City resources to increase the number
of uniformed police officers and enhance prosecution and Municipal
Court services. During discussions leading to approval of Phase 1 of the
SCAP, the Council committed to further evaluation of additional
community safety improvements. Council direction will be key in
determining future phases of the SCAP.
4. State Legislation
- The City is actively supporting state legislation pertaining to criminal justice
that would:
- Stiffen penalties for auto theft and eluding
- Define gang activity
- Allow civil injunctions to be brought against gang members
- Provide funding to combat graffiti
- Provide a local option for voter- approved random drug testing of
public safety officers
4- Federal Public Safety Enhancement Funding
- Federal grant funding will be aggressively pursued in 2008 in order to
enhance efforts to combat graffiti, gang activity, drug trafficking, and
violent crime, and to increase the number of targeted "Emphasis Patrols."
4 Anti -Gang Ordinance
- In 2007, the Council passed an ordinance designed to strengthen the
ability of law enforcement to suppress gang activity. An opinion from the
Wa. St. Attorney General late last year generated questions regarding
enforcement of certain elements of the ordinance. Following action by
the Wa. St. Legislature concerning a proposed "omnibus' bill related to the
prevention and intervention of gang violence, the Council may need to
act to amend its current ordinance or repeal it should state legislation
preempt local authority.
1
a Gang Database Upgrade
- The current database used by the Police Department to track gang
members and their activities has outgrown the capabilities of current
technology. Efforts will be made this year to upgrade the system to
accommodate more robust technology. The potential for Yakima County's
participation in an upgraded system is also being pursued.
LEMAP Review of Police Department
- A review of the Police Department's operations and management
systems has been conducted by the Washington Association of Sheriffs and
Police Chiefs as part of its Loaned Executive Management Assistance
Program ( "LEMAP "). The LEMAP review report will serve as a guide to
identify areas that need strengthening, motivate the organization, improve
internal and external services, and gain additional community support.
Once completed, the review report will be presented to the Council Public
Safety Committee and, ultimately, the full Council.
4. Police /Jail Facilities Study
- In 2008, the City will evaluate proposals from professional firms which
could be retained to study the potential relocation of the existing westside
police sub - station (currently located at the Yakima Air Terminal) and the
feasibility of expanding the City's Municipal Jail.
4 Hiring of Deputy Police Chief
- A key prio pity for City management in 2008 will be the hiring of a Deputy
Police Chief (as authorized by Council- approved policy issue). The hiring
process will utilize a broad -based search and selection procedure which
will include significant community input and involvement.
a Emergency Medical Services Levy
- In order to raise the standard of Emergency Medical Services ( "EMS ") care
in Yakima, the Council could consider submitting for voter approval an
adjustment in the existing EMS levy. Such an adjustment could also include
restructuring the existing method used to allocate EMS levy funds.
4. Yakima Fire Department Capital Facilities /Staffing Enhancements
- A proposal to finance enhancements to Yakima Fire Department capital
facilities and staffing will likely be presented to the Council this year.
Staffing enhancements would decrease overtime costs, increase efficiency
of service delivery, and improve response times.
4- Speed Limit St
- A comprehensive review of speed limits on arterial streets in the City was
conducted in 2007, the first such review in about 30 years, in order to
determine if changes are justified. Findings and recommendations of the
study will be presented this year to the Council Transportation Planning
Committee before being brought before the full Council for its
consideration.
a Intersection Photo Enforcement
- First discussed in 2007, the potential utilization of "red light" camera
intersection photo enforcement was referred to staff for additional
research and analysis. Further action by the Council Public Safety
Committee is pending.
2
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• Stormwater
- The Regional Stormwater Policy Task Force, consisting of representatives
from Yakima County and the cities of Yakima, Moxee, Union Gap, and
Sunnyside, will move from policy development to program implementation
in 2008.
• Union Gap Transit Service
- In November 2007, Union Gap voters approved an increase in that city's
sales tax rate in order to fund permanent extension of Yakima Transit
service, which has been provided since 2005 thanks to a Congestion
Mitigation and Air Quality ( "CMAQ ") grant. Full implementation of the
permanent Yakima Transit Union Gap route is scheduled to occur in 2008.
• Yakima Air Terminal
- The Yakima Air Terminal ( "YAT "), jointly owned by the City of Yakima and
Yakima County, is operated by a 5- member board appointed by the City
and County. Several issues of greater than routine magnitude have given
rise to the need for increased involvement by the YAT's owners. Progress
was made in 2007 to improve the level of communication and
coordination between the YAT's owners, the YAT board, and the YAT staff
that these issues require. Continued cooperation will be necessary in order
to address issues such as the YAT Business Plan, capital facilities planning,
the Airport Safety Overlay, Airport security, and Runway Safety Area
improvements.
4. Yakima /Union Gap Boundaries
- Discussions are on,going regarding potential adjustments, where
appropriate, to jurisdictional boundary lines between Yakima and Union
Gap.
4. Uniform Development Standards
- Efforts will continue in 2008 to create uniform development standards
within the Yakima Urban Growth Area as administered by both the City of
Yakima and Yakima County. Such uniform standards will provide
predictability for developers, thereby encouraging economic investment.
• Shared Facilities With Yakima County
- Preliminary discussions have occurred in recent years with Yakima County
officials regarding the potential for co- location of some City /County
facilities. With Yakima County currently considering its long -term facilities
needs, the opportunity may be present to revisit such discussions.
• Consolidation of City /County Purchasing Functions
- The City and Yakima County have agreed to jointly fund an
administrative review, which will be conducted by the National Institute of
Governmental Purchasing, regarding the feasibility of consolidating City
and County purchasing functions. The review will be conducted in early
3
2008 with findings and recommendations expected shortly after its
completion
a Consolidation of City /County Planning & Code Functions
- Efforts will be made in 2008 to restart discussions regarding the potential
consolidation of the planning & code enforcement functions of the City of
Yakima and Yakima County.
4 Yakima/Union Gap Automatic Aid Agreement
- Discussions will continue in 2008 regarding a potential "automatic aid
agreementsI between the City of Yakima and the City of Union Gap. Such
an agreement could be modeled after an existing agreement in place for
the West Valley area.
4 Regional Police Records Management System
- Discussions will continue in 2008 regarding the establishment of a
Regional Police Records Management System. Such a system would allow
local law enforcement agencies to better access common data and
coordinate crime fighting efforts.
4 Consolidated Dispatch
- Recommendations from a study completed in 2005 concerning
consolidation of emergency response dispatch will continue to be
implemented in 2008. Negotiating agreements with several Yakima Valley
emergency response agencies is pending.
4 4 -Party Waste Water Agreement
- Discussion should begin this year concerning the potential renegotiation
of the 4 -Party Waste Water Agreement. Ultimate adoption of modifications
to the agreement will require Council action.
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mote stimulate an d , foster economic improvements .,in { vest men t s,partnerships, an t"
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�gb creation to revitalize our economy ,maintain fiscal stabiIityf and enhance our '
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• Renewal Community Legislation Re- Authorization
- The City is actively pursuing Congressional re- authorization of Renewal
Community' legislation which provides economic development incentives
including wage credits, tax deductions, capital gains exclusions, and bond
financing . Yakima received 1 of the only 40 Renewal Community
designations 6 years ago. The program, set to expire in 2009, has been a
key economic stimulus in the Yakima area and is critical to future growth.
.. Downtown Yakima Futures Initiative
- Phase 2 ofl the Downtown Yakima Futures Initiative ( "DYFI ") was
substantially completed in 2007. Minor finishing touches, along with
installation of hanging flower baskets and other landscaping, will occur this
year once winter weather subsides.
- Phase 3 DYFI improvements are currently in the design stage. The project
is expected, to go to bid by this spring (Council approval of the winning bid
4
will be required), with construction scheduled to start in the summer and
be completed by the end of the year. Phase 3 will involve improvements
to 1St Street, 3rd Street, and Naches Avenue between "A" Street and Yakima
Avenue, and to 2nd Street between "A" Street and Chestnut Avenue.
3 Downtown Yakima Parking & Business Improvement Area Re- authorization
- Funds generated from assessments collected within the existing Parking
and Business Improvement Area ( "PBIA ") are currently allocated (by
Council action) to the Committee For Downtown Yakima for use in
ongoing maintenance, promotion, and other improvement activities in the
City's core. City Council re- authorization of the PBIA, in its current form or in
another form, will be required in order for assessments to be collected
beyond May. Once a petition for re- authorization of the PBIA, signed by
affected business and property owners, is submitted to the City, the
Council will need to act to establish the PBIA boundaries and assessment
formula.
4. Council Budget Committee
- Formed in 2007, the Council Budget Committee is continuing its review of
the City's General Government Budget. The.committee's review includes
identifying potential revenue opportunities that may be necessary to
ensure the City's ongoing Sustainability of Services, establishing City services
priorities, and identifying expenditures /services that may be reduced,
eliminated, combined, or transferred to the private sector.
• Annexation Policy
- A review of the Council's previously- approved 20 -year Annexation Policy
may be the subject of an upcoming Council study session. Development
of annexation plans for 2008 are planned to occur early in the year, with
implementation to follow. Council participation will be critical to the
formulation of current and future annexation strategy.
4. Zoning Ordinance Revisions
- Previous adoption by the Council of an update to the Yakima Urban Area
Comprehensive Plan created the need for some revisions to be made to
the City's Zoning Ordinance. Proposed Zoning Ordinance revisions will be
presented to the Council for its consideration in 2008.
+ Urbanization of Terrace Heights
- Efforts to address the issue of urbanizing Terrace Heights within the Yakima
Urban Growth Area, which will need to involve Yakima County and public
service providers in the affected areas, are intended to be made in 2008.
1 -82 Corridor Development
- Yakima Resources Property - City staff is continuing to provide assistance
to Yakima Resources in its ongoing effort to develop property which was
home to a wood processing operation. The development of the Yakima
Resources property will play a key role in the evolution of the 1 -82 corridor.
- TRANS- Action - Transportation improvements throughout the 1 -82 corridor
will be critical to its short -term and long -term development. The City will
work closely with TRANS- Action, the public /private consortium formed to
prioritize regional transportation projects and lobby for funding, as projects
within the 1 -82 corridor are identified.
5
4. LIFT Grant Application
- The City intends to apply for grant funding this year through Washington
State's newlLocal Infrastructure Financing Tool ( "LIFT ") program. Such
funding wodild be utilized to improve roads, sewer, water, and other critical
infrastructure in order to spur economic development.
4. Capital Projects Financing
- Plans to secure financing in 2008 for critical capital projects include:
- $5.5 million in revenue bonds for Wastewater Treatment
Plant upgrades
- $2.3 million in general obligation bonds for street /traffic improvements
- $750,000 in debt financing for replacement of YFD ladder truck
- $500,000 in bridge financing for the Capitol Theatre project
Additionally, a long -term strategy will be developed for the issuance of an
estimated $7 million in general obligation bonds (scheduled for 2009) for
the Capitol Theatre project. The Council will be involved in the financing
process at both the committee and full Council level.
4 Airport Safety Overlay ( "ASO ")
- Together with board members and staff of the Yakima Air Terminal, efforts
will be made to complete revisions to the Airport Safety Overlay ( "ASO ") in
2008. Completion of the ASO revisions will provide predictability for
property owners and developers within the ASO.
a Water Resources and West Valley Development
- In April 2007, the Council conducted a study session regarding
challenges posed by continued development in West Valley and state
regulations that limit utilization of water rights historically allocated for
agricultural purposes (as opposed to residential purposes). Since then, the
City has collaborated with numerous water - related agencies to craft a
draft Memorandum of Understanding ( "MOU ") that addresses key issues
and provides viable solutions. Eventually, the Council will be asked to
consider the MOU.
+ Economic Development /Job Creation Legislation
- The City will continue to support state legislation aimed at spurring
economic development and /or providing additional job creation
financing tools for local government.
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in imme nts to pubic faci parks tr an J open spaces; a ndrbM
prornoting the expansion cultur educa and recrea opp�ortun�ties for
everyone wh;o lives, works, an plays in Yakima � s � 'Ofa .. . °«'m„c+... .., -,.
Kiwanis Park Master Plan /Gateway Recreation Corridor
- Key policy decisions will need to be made by the Council regarding
design and build out of Kiwanis Park and continued development of an
envisioned Gateway Recreation Corridor. The Kiwanis Park Master Plan
includes further improvements such as a skate park, youth baseball or
6
soccer fields, additional parking, etc. Participation by interested
community, groups in the identification of potential additional projects, and
available financing options, will be critical to establishing viable strategies
for future development of Kiwanis Park and surrounding properties.
• Sustainability of Parks and Recreation Programs and Services
- Fiscal pressures have placed the future sustainability of City Parks and
Recreation programs and services at risk. The City's Parks Commission is
planning to discuss these challenges at the next Council study session on
January 29th.
• Regional Aquatics Center
- A regional aquatics center feasibility study was begun in 2007 and will be
completed by spring 2008. The study, being conducted by USKH of
Lewiston, Idaho, includes evaluation of cost, siting, and financing options.
Findings and recommendations from the study will be presented to the full
Council later this year.
4 Future of Lions and Franklin Pools
- A professional evaluation of the City's 2 swimming pools, Lions and
Franklin, has indicated that the remaining life span for both facilities, even
with significant investment, is less than 10 years. A determination by the
Council regarding options for Lions and Franklin pools will need be made
in the relatively near future.
• Fisher Park Golf Course Evaluation
- Recommendations to improve the operations of the City -owned Fisher
Park Golf Course, which were developed by a citizens group formed in
2007, will be implemented for the 2008 season. The effect of the
improvements will be tracked closely in order to assess the viability of
funding self - sufficiency for Fisher Park Golf Course.
4 Lincoln Avenue /Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Underpasses
- Utility relocation, property and rights -of -way acquisition, and other
preliminary work related to "grade separation" projects on Lincoln Avenue
and Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard began in 2007. The Lincoln Avenue
underpass project is expected to go to bid this spring, with construction
scheduled to begin this summer and last approximately 12 months.
Construction of the MLK, Jr. Blvd. underpass, scheduled to begin in 2009, is
still contingent on securing additional outside funding support.
+ West Nob Hill Boulevard Improvements
- In connection with increasing commercial and residential development in
the West Valley area, significant improvements to Nob Hill Boulevard are
required. The construction of additional lanes, curbs, gutters, sidewalks,
and lighting will begin in 2008 on Nob Hill between 51st Avenue and 72nd
Avenue. Both developers and the City are obligated to fund necessary
infrastructure improvements.
4. Capital Theatre Public Facilities District Funding
- The City -owned Capitol Theatre will begin its ambitious
expansion /improvement project in 2008. The project is being funded, in
part, with moneys collected as sales tax through the authorized regional
(Yakima, Selah, Union Gap) Public Facilities District ( "PFD "). The Council will
7
play a role i oversight of the process, including approval of certain
expenditures connected to the project. A Council study session
concerning the Capitol Theatre project has been scheduled for February
26th.
Analysis of Yakima Transit Fare Adjustment
- Yakima Transit fares have remained the same for the past 14 years, even
though costs, namely fuel prices, have increased significantly during the
same period. During the 2008 Budget process, the Council approved
initiation of a public process that could result in adjustments begin made to
Yakima Transit's base bus fare rates.
Westside Services Substation
- Additional research and analysis for the siting, construction, and
operation of a City westside services substation will be conducted in 2008.
4 West Valley Community Park
- Yakima County began the process of transferring ownership of West
Valley Community Park to the City of Yakima in 2006. Since the spring of
2007, the City has been operating the park, although final transfer of
ownership has yet to occur. Maintenance of the park is being provided
through a contract with a private vendor and a partnership with the West
Valley School District. Efforts will be made early in 2008 to complete all
necessary requirements in order for the City to assume ownership of the
park.
4 William 0. Douglas Trail
- Grant funding from the Washington State Department of Transportation
will provide for the continued development of the William 0. Douglas Trail,
the recreation corridor linking Yakima to Mount Rainier National Park. The
Council will likely be involved in planning, design, review, and final
approval of the project.
4- Transportation Plan
- Traffic Analysis Guideline Update - Existing guidelines for traffic study
requirements (YMC 12.07) are minimal and have not proven instructive for
developers. Recommendations included in the City's Transportation Plan,
which provide for more detailed guidelines intended to improve
consistency' and efficiency, are intended to be presented for Council
consideration in 2008 as part of other suggested updates to the Yakima
Municipal Code.
- Future Lane - The City's Transportation Plan includes a draft map and
narrative concerning a proposed future plan for the City's arterial streets.
The map and accompanying narrative provide predictability for citizens
and developers regarding potential expansion, realignment, new
construction, etc. for arterial streets. The draft map and narrative
language a re intended to be presented for Council consideration in 2008
as part of other suggested updates to the Yakima Municipal Code.
s Neighborhood Traffic Calming Policy
- Potential modifications to the City's Neighborhood Traffic Calming Policy,
designed to enhance the safety and livability of our community's
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residential areas, will be presented to the Council in early 2008. Final
adoption of any revisions to the existing policy will require Council action.
4- Park and Recreation Manager Replacement
- The pending retirement in 2008 of the City's current, long -time Parks and
Recreation Manager will require participation by the Parks Commission and
broader community in order to recruit and select a replacement.
4 Summer Outdoor Cinema Series
- During the 2008 Budget process, the Council approved funding for the
second season of the Summer Outdoor Cinema Series. In order for the
popular program, co- sponsored by the Parks and Recreation Division and
Allied Arts, to remain viable, additional support from the private- sector will
be required.
• AmeriCorps Mentoring Program
- Begun in 2006, an after - school mentoring and community services
program operated by the City's 15- member Parks and Recreation
AmeriCorps Team has worked with more than 600 kids from Yakima's
Northeast and Southeast neighborhoods. A 3 -year grant is funding the
program. Efforts will need to be made in 2008 to search for a sustainable
funding source in order to continue the innovative and successful program
beyond next year.
Com munsty !rage : �}
rte. �attractive'` �' o a� � : Yw
Strengthen Yakimaxszimage as a ;clea ; h ..
tr �nd ro ressive communit p kt g �s"�3 1K ;kS y throug � r �
wi proacti ex' resp. actions, citizen involvment, and ffective g . j
rt t o .w Me onsive tV e $4 e * ,
community relationsefforts
�s- -k'n.,s�"��i'�,. "...�€`�;;� =i.� � �"�i_. '•..'�"���w :�'� d C.
4 Focus on Customer Service
- During 2008, each City department and division will be specifically
focusing on making improvements in customer service through training;
changes in policy, and adoption of an overall client- oriented philosophy.
• Electronic Bill Pay System
- Evaluation of vendors for a system that will allow City utility customers to
pay bill electronically is nearly complete. A vendor contract is expected to
be presented for Council consideration in early 2008 with implementation
of the system scheduled for the 2nd quarter of this year.
4- Utility Service Customer Service Quality Control System
- Preliminary implementation of a customer service quality control system
for the Utility Services Division, which includes recording of customer /staff
phone interaction, has already occurred. Full implementation; including
follow -up training based on data gathered over time, is scheduled for
2008.
a Utility /Customer Service Computer System
- The process of selecting a vendor for an improved utility billing /customer
service system will be completed in early 2008. Final approval of a vendor
contract will require Council action.
9
4- Citizen Service Request System
- Research will continue in 2008 concerning the potential implementation
of a computer -based citizen service request system. Such a system would
improve the efficiency and effectiveness of City staff responses to citizen
service requests.
Agenda Manager System
- Agendas and agenda statements for all City Council meetings are now
posted on the City's website. Implementation of a new "Agenda Manager"
system, scheduled for 2008, will provide community members with even
greater access to information through the City's website.
a Restructuring of Office of Neighborhood Development Services
- In response to the evolving needs of the community, the Community and
Economic Development Department will be proposing modifications to the
programming and operational structure of the Office of Neighborhood
Development Services ( "ONDS "). Potential alterations to ONDS will initially
be presented and reviewed by the Council Neighborhood Development
Services Committee before eventually being brought to the full Council for
its consideration.
4. City Council Meetings On The Internet
- Research and testing are underway concerning providing citizen access
to archived Y -PAC coverage of City Council meetings through the City's
website. Final implementation is scheduled for later this year.
4 Fire Department Website Improvements
- Efforts are underway to improve the Yakima Fire Department's website in
order to make it the premiere source of community information and
guidance concerning fire and life safety issues. -
10
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Ari-
1a
City of Yakima
Challenges /Opportunities in 2008 (and Beyond)
s r a x t r v
C ®rnmunity Safety
sure : t h at necessa resource are -available in, ` ance
�
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ry o to preseruebantl� enha
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s fr protect n, and a ergenc s cap aa e � V x ' v
41. Safe Community Action Plan
State Legislation
4 Federal Public Safety Enhancement Funding
4 Anti -Gang Ordinance
i Gang Database Upgrade
LEMAP Review of Police Department
Police /Jail Facilities Study
4 Hiring of Deputy Police Chief
Emergency Medical Services Levy
4 Yakima Fire Department Capital Facilities /Staffing Enhancements
Speed Limit Study
Intersection Photo Enforcement
.VT •
lack '41.71
City of Yakima
Challenges /Opportunities in 2008 (and Beyond)
nt 'Xf. 'F"R W., ^Thy2J:7A.� "R } T
Reci.onalGovernment Services j
' '� - a,y �'k>z-N� sr w.` t' '�"- ca
r Lead, pu rsue, a a c opport e lforr greater regionalizat and coo dination
y p ublic sery cess and intergovernment a l #coope w hich'�b ; est�serves all citizens
, :.�..' �.'�:.�� . < > : ✓�°Se4*�#2N� � as -•.ate` :`��'1J�"a`�r'b'''eR� •" . .��x'A6.'xi'" a":�:: - � g:Au
Stormwater
i Union Gap Transit Service
4 Yakima Air Terminal
4 Yakima /Union Gap Boundaries
4 Uniform Development Standards
4 Shared Facilities With Yakima County
4 Consolidation of City /County Purchasing Functions
4 Consolidation of City /County Planning & Code Functions
4 Yakima/Union Gap Automatic Aid Agreement
4 Regional Police Records Management System
4 Consolidated Dispatch
4 4 -Party Waste Water Agreement
gs
City of Yakima
Challenges /Opportunities in 2008 (and Beyond)
{ A "M+ t "k' 2 `Pf' 9 `x rri w i* '. $ ` ak fi�av �44
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i x vac9ar . r t
� �s ^ . ' -,.a _ a�b; ^ a - _ st} ` a �` 3 a. '.' .� vsn '," °'m.: e*� r ° � t r i ri "' �.. R " � ,vx� .
Promoe stimulate and foster economic imprroovernents, investments; partn rsh ps and
fob creationtolr our economy, maintain fiscall stb lity and enhance - our , x r
ros erit fr the�;fu � � f� { � �
"„ rv' ' x, a`¥ �,... ' �, e c > r� .s '�# .rF` $ � `._.
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• Renewal Community Legislation Re- Authorization
a Downtown Yakima Futures Initiative
• Downtown Yakima Parking & Business Improvement Area Re- authorization
4. Council Budget Committee
• Annexation Policy
.. Zoning Ordinance Revisions
4. Urbanization of Terrace Heights
4 1 -82 Corridor Development
4 LIFT Grant Application
4 Capital Projects Financing
4- Airport Safety Overlay ( "ASO ")
4. Water Resources and West Valley Development
4 Economic Development /Job Creation Legislation
City of Yakima
Challenges /Opportunities in 200 (and Beyond)
� � `*.Y x,. ar s a t."*4 ".1'44
u �f Life . �"' # # � ir' � w-
° Preserve, sustam� and enhance our mmunity s quality� life and naturalTMe
co
by inveesting in improvements to p�.¢yau,blic facilities parks, trail and open sp ce
as, and by
` .aY,r s - �:.:; �kg"3',�rr�'.°N , zr��*h, r '� ` :
prornoting the expansion of educational; and ecreaio
tnal opportuniti for-
�'�` . f .' �3S,i 90 ;,` ,�, n .. o k i
everyon w ho l ive s works and ` playsin Yakima {. 4 ' . '15 110,4140A4
Kiwanis Park Master Plan /Gateway Recreation Corridor
• Sustainability of Parks and Recreation Programs and Services
4 Regional Aquatics Center
4 Future of Lions and Franklin Pools
> Fisher Park Golf Course Evaluation
4 Lincoln Avenue /Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Underpasses
4 West Nob Hill Boulevard Improvements
• Capital Theatre Public Facilities District Funding
4 Analysis of Yakima Transit Fare Adjustment
• Westside Services Substation
• West Valley Community Park
+ William O. Douglas Trail
4 Transportation Plan
+ Neighborhood Traffic Calming Policy
4 Park and Recreation Manager Replacement
4 Summer Outdoor Cinema Series
• AmeriCorps Mentoring Program
City of Yakima
Challenges /Opportunities in 2008 (and Beyond)
" ; u r .''t' .n '- � * "`
Comm Im age � , z > _ �
Stre ngthen � Y kirn m as c attrac and prog through®
proa c ti ve com r esponsiv e action ci tizen'inuolvernent and "e ffec t iv e{ � •
�. e �„ �q n l , m ' s ,,o, y . e re y � 6,+P� - < s:r `sA k m" 5, ' 'r Ta' ?t '.s � ' ° "d` s Ya :. k :
comrnunityfrelations efforts �� ,..! f �
,t " 'r^,.y ' k - v 'AS m',y � a"- {�r�i i .
A» ak - .4�P�,''>�M� �...>Pl ui"�Ll �C ¢ . M:
4- Focus on Customer Service
.I- Electronic Bill Pay System
4 Utility Service Customer Service Quality Control System
Utility /Customer Service Computer System
4 Citizen Service Request System
4 Agenda Manager System
4 Restructuring of Office of Neighborhood Development Services
v City Council Meetings On The Internet
4 Fire Department Website Improvements