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HomeMy WebLinkAbout04/26/95TAPE #1284 UNAPPROVED DRAFT COUNCIL APPROVED MAY 17 1995 CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES APRIL 26, 1995 #0027 #0052 The regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Bremerton was called to order in the City Council Chambers, 239 4th Street, Bremerton, Washington, Wednesday, April 26, 1995, at 5:30 P.M., with Council Vice-President Richard Neville presiding. Council members present were Bob Winters, A1 Colvin, Morrie Dawkins, Carlos Montgomery, John Law, David Farr and Lon Overson. Council President Sherril Huff-Menees was absent. 'Also present were Acting City Attorney Joann Dantonio and Acting City Clerk Rich Hanna. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance led by Council Vice-President Richard Neville and Invocation given by Reverend Gordon Hanstad of Sylvan Way Baptist Church. CONSENT AGENDA A. Bid Award Recommendation - John Deere F935 Diesel Powered Mower #AB95-087 M/S/C/U(Colvin/Overson) to approve Consent Agenda as presented. CLAIMS/CHECK REGISTERS Vouchers audited and certified by the auditing officer as required by RCW 42.24.080, and those expense reimbursement claims certified as required by RCW 42.24.090, have been recorded on a listing that had been made available to the Council. Mr. Colvin noted during the pre-Council meeting one of the checks was questioned by Councilman Winters, which had to do with an expense in the City Attorney's office. He asked if he should include wording addressing that issue in the motion to approve the Check Register? Mr. Hanna, Acting City Clerk, stated he understood the question on the specific claim and he will provide a written response to Council on May 4. M/S/C/U(Colvin/Overson) on April 26, 1995, the Council does approve for payment those vouchers included and further described as follows: 184071 through 184074 and 184076 through 184233 in the amount of $255,889.45; and Retirees Payroll for the period ending April 30, 1995, in the amount of $81,713.27 COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS Mr. Overson noted the nice weather everyone enjoyed over the weekend, as well as the Earth Day activities that happened along the waterfront. The Corps of Engineers drag-line ship picked up TAPE #1284 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 26, 1995 Page 2 of 13 approximately 16 tons worth of debris out of the Sound on their way to Bremerton for the Earth Day activities. He attended a meeting on Monday on the old Elks building renovation, which is progressing very well. The Naming Contest for that facility is underway with 18 submittals and they are open to more suggestions. In addition, they discussed the progress of the Admiral Theater being rebuilt and progress on the downtown area rehabilitation contract. Mr'. Farr reminded members of his District of the a combined District Meeting for Districts #6, #7 and #8 on Thursday, May 4, 1995, 7:00 P.M. at the Bremerton School District Office. The program for that meeting will be an "Open Forum". Mr. Law stated Saturday was the ultimate for making use of Brem- Air, and the City'sPublic Works Department yard waste dump as part of the Spring Clean Up. He appreciated the friendly response by the City Street Department personnel at that site. He wanted to "clear the air" on some Council actions regarding the Anderson Creek sales option. He also wanted everyone to know his comments reflected his own feelings on the issue. Two weeks ago Council took action on the Growth Management Act requirements as required by law, which was specifying land use. That meeting had nothing to do with the purchase of the Anderson Hill Watershed property. The purchase option for that site was voted on at the December 7, 1994 City Council meeting, and included a commitment: "..of the Citv's administration to suDport land use to General Business, Mixed Use and General Industry". This was done as a company was "standing at our doorstep" so to speak ready to employ hundreds of people and this site was the only one in the County that could support the industrial complex that would look like a college campus. However, the catch was there was no caveat in the option that if Micron did not locate on that site, the purpose option would be void. No one on the City Council, Administration or staff thought of including that limitation in the option agreement. Council made a decision, which he now perceives to have been in haste. The developer of this site will have to go through some "hoops", which include going through the Planning Commission, responding to the Wellhead Protection Study and water migration, and possibly complying with EPA Regulations. The City may end up with one of the most pristine areas within the State as a college campus type area or we could end up with a lesser option. Mr. Winters thanked Mrs. Julie Duncan, a District #9 resident, for her call regarding concerns with the City's Building Department and he will be meeting with her on Thursday. He encouraged anyone residing in District #9 that has a concern or suggestion to please contact him through the City Council Office. He has also received a number of calls regarding sidewalks and he expects that issue will be discussed at the next Kitsap Lake Neighborhood Association TAPE #1284 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 26, 1995 Page 3 of 13 meeting. Mr. Colvin congratulated the citizens of Bremerton for passing the School Levy. He has received more complaints this year than years past about the Scotch broom on the north end of the Warren Avenue Bridge. He asked anyone within the community that had a complaint about the Scotch broom planted at the north end of Warren Avenue Bridge to please send him a letter expressing their concern. He wasn't sure if anything could be done about the vegetation in that area, but felt something should be attempted considering the problems it creates. The next District #1 meeting will be held May 20, 7:00 P.M., at the Sheridan Park and Recreation Center. The program for that meeting will include paying tribute to Mr. McKenzie, now deceased, and his family. Mr. Dawkins announced "Christmas In April" will get underway on Saturday, April 29th. Mr. Montuomery reported on Tuesday, April 25, he attended the "Gateway" presentation held at the West Hills Elementary school. Those attending that event were very vocal and Mr. Montgomery hoped those individuals would submit their concerns and/or suggestions in writing so they can be reviewed for further consideration. On Saturday, April 22, he participated in the Sinclair Clean Up and picked up about 45 lbs. of trash along the waterfront. He noted those participating in the clean up had a great time, especially the kids. MAYOR'S REPORT Mayor Lynn Hotton reported on the City's participation in a region- wide Earthquake Preparedness Drill, which included closing City Hall for about one hour. She thanked the public for their cooperation during that closure period. Following the initial drill, she and members of her staff spent the remainder of the day at an Emergency Command Center learning how to handle emergency situations. Additional follow up training will be held to enhance the capability of serving the public under adverse and emergency situations. Mayor Horton read the following Proclamation: 1. May 7-13, 1995 as NATIONAL DRINKING WATER WEEK The Kathleen Cahall, Water Resources Manager, accepted the Proclamation, and announced the following activities planned for "Water Week": (1) County-wide coloring contest for children in Kindergarten through 6th grade; (2) display of all the Water Systems in'Kitsap County at the Kitsap Regional Library located on Sylvan Way; (3) Water Festival televised on Cable Access Channel 12; (4) special handouts at the Utility Service Center, which will include a new County-wide Lawn Watering Calendar. TAPE #1284 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 26, 1995 Page 4 of 13 2. May i - 6, 1995 as YOUTH WEEK, sponsored by Elks Lodge #1181. Mayor Horton noted this past weekend one of her daughter's classmates was killed in an accident and she extended "condolences" to that family. PUBLIC RECOGNITION PatriciaKnutson, Rocky Point Road, raised objection over an 8-page handout that was delivered to Rocky Point Road residents by people who indicated they were from the City, on Saturday, April 22. The handout addressed the Rocky Point Annexation proposal. She identified various issues within that document that she believed to be untrue. She also believed the financial analysis was compiled by the City Treasurer on City time and to her knowledge the handout was written by an off-duty Fire Department employee and delivered by off-duty City employees. Mayor Lynn stated she had not personally read the information in the handout presented by Mrs. Knutson. It was her understanding the information was generated by some off-duties employees on their own time, some being residents of Rocky Point. She reminded everyone of the "Open House Workshop", addressing the Rocky Point Annexation issue, on Thursday, April 27, 1995, 3:00 - 8:00 P.M., at the Methodist Church located on Marine Drive. Participants at that meeting will include the City, Bremerton-Kitsap County Health District, Rocky Point Water District and proponents against the Annexation proposal. The information provided by the City at that meeting will be factual and substantiated by the City. Glenn Jarstad,2823 Hefner Avenue, stated in regard to the Rocky Point Annexation proposal, he believes this Council must make the following determination: (1) the available capacity within the sewer treatment plant to take on new residents. He believes the City will expand to the west, which will fill up the capacity of the sewer treatment plant. He emphasized the point must be gotten across to the Rocky Point residents that if they turn down the Annexation proposal before them, the City will not make their sewer treatment plan available to them now or in the future. Also, the Rocky Point Water District should talk with the Jensen Water District Commissioners, who on their own brought that district into the City of Bremerton. At that time, the City took over the Water District's debts and allowed them the capability of having sewer services when needed. Rocky Point people, over the years, have made a mistake in his judgement of being afraid of government wherever it is and he felt it was time this Annexation was forced upon us by the Court. He emphasized the need for the City to "draw some lines" so it does not go on and on. He expects the State and Kitsap County Health District will come to the point where they demand that people be hooked up to sewer systems and Rocky Point is given that opportunity by Court Order to vote on that issue. He TAPE #1284 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 26, 1995 Page 5 of 13 also noted if Rocky Point approves the annexation, the City would not be making any money due to their agreeing to absorb the Water District's million dollar debt. Leslie Banigan, Coordinating member of the Sinclair Inlet Citizens Action Committee, thanked the City of Bremerton for supporting their clean up effort on April 22. She expressed special "thanks" to everyone who participated in the clean up as well as the businesses who donated food, drinks, etc. She announced the next clean up effort sponsored by her group will be during Washington Coast Weeks activities in September. Don Larson, President of Washington Scuba Alliance, displayed one of the marine interpretative signs that have been placed in various parks located on Puget Sound. He was pleased to announce the Hood Canal Coordinating Council presented his organization with an Environmental Achievement Award for their effort in obtaining and installing the interpretative signs in park areas. He also talked about the Sinclair Inlet Clean Up event and encouraged people to please don't dump trash in Puget Sound. Elizabeth Bue11, High Avenue, expressed her concern over the Scotch broom vegetation at the north end of the Warren Avenue Bridge and how it adversely affects people. Glenn Jarstad, Hefner Avenue, complimented Mayor Horton for her leadership in the School Levy Ballot measure. He has been actively working on Initiative 640 - an initiative that will make the commercial net industry more selective in their catch. He emphasized no one has taken on the strength of the commercial net fishing industry in the State of Washington and they have dominated the State Legislature for years. The main focus and the driving force for this initiative is out of Kitsap County. Over the years, the City of Bremerton has been one of the staunchest supporters of rebuilding marine life in Kitsap County. And, over the years the City of Bremerton utilized their lakes for planting of silver salmon. There has been a long relationship with the Suquamish Tribe to provide spawning grounds for salmon and trout within the City's lakes and Anderson Creek. 7A - PENDERGAST REGIONAL SPORTS COMPLEX. PHASE I. KASSEL CONSTRUCTION, INC., CHANGE ORDER #7, #AB95-088 This change order is to include the second half of the parking lot at Pendergast Park for the additive cost of $136,510.96. This second half of the parking area was not considered to be developed in the Phase I construction due to potential budgetary constraints. At this time of the project, it is now foreseen that sufficient budgetary resources will support this expenditure. #1599 TAPE #1284 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 26, 1995 Page 6 of 13 This additive cost includes all necessary rough and fine earthwork grading; placement of sub-base crushed rock; placement of class B asphalt; concrete placement of curbs and drainage system, wheel stops, parking stall striping, and signage. Dan Miller, Project Manager, stated the second half of the parking lot is a big enhancement and will complete 34 acres of a 49 acre park. This will provide additional parking, especially for the soccer enthusiast due to its close proximity to the all-weather soccer fields #7 and #8. This proposal will also control stormwaterrunoff and mitigate siltation into the detention pond on the site. This change order, by Council's approval, will be mitigating additional mobilization cost for heavy equipment to do the earth work required to build the second half of the parking lot. The cost for mobilization of heavy equipment can run from $6,000 - $11,000. Public comment - none. Mr. Dawkins asked about the grass seeding process. Mr. Miller stated it is doing well and some areas have been reseeded. The irrigation system is set on timers that allow the fields to be watered every three hours. He was also pleased with the all- weather soccer field surfaces. Currently, there are about 85 people working on the job site getting it to the point of completion in a timely fashion. Mr. Farr referenced Mr. Mill's comment during the Council Operations Committee meeting that the grading and finishing of the second parking area would enhance the effectiveness of the detention pond and asked if there was some correlation between the two? Mr. Miller explained there is enormous run off on the site due to the glacial fill and percolation of water into the ground. As the water table rises, the glacial tilt cannot take any more saturation and it has to spill it somewhere and results in the siltation being taken off the top of the dirt area and floods it down to the detention pond. Eventually, the detention pond will not operate as intended or have the capacity to take in the amount of storm water it is built to hold due to the build up of siltation. By improving the entire parking lot area, the stormwater runoff will be funnelled through the stormwater catch basins to the stormwater system, which will have a controlling effect on the siltation of the detention pond. M/S/C/U(Montgomery/Colvin) to authorize and direct the Mayor to approve Change Order No. 7 and make payment to Kassel Construction, Inc., subject to City Administrative Policies and Procedures. Mayor Lynn Herton stated this will probably be the last budget i TAPE #1284 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 26, 1995 Page 7 of 13 adjustment for this project, excluding the addition of lighting for the fields, which will require a fund raising effort. The plan at this point is to complete the parking lot and hold residual monies in a fund for lighting acquisition. Following the completion of the parking lot work, Phase I of the park will be complete. She publicly thanked Mr. Miller for a job very well done on a very complex project. She was pleased over his abilities to maximize the dollars available for the project with it coming in well under budget and well under time frames. Acting President Neville asked if the City would maintain control of the rollover funds and work closely with the Pendergast Committee to raise funds for the lighting enhancement? Mayor HoEton stated yes - the City will retain control of the remaining $40,000 in the contingency fund. Mr. Miller pointed out there is one clean up change order yet to come, which covers future conduits under pavement areas and some plywood that was required for the mens' and women's restrooms, to create more privacy between those two facilities. However, that change order will not affect the $40,000 involved in that residual. Mr. Colvin asked if a charge will be made for parking at the park? Mayor Hotton stated not at this time, however, the Parks Department is working on a marketing program that will include several options that addresses "paid parking at times", such as during large tournaments. Acting President Neville pointed out such questions will be addressed to Council at a May 22 Study Session. 7B - LABOR AGREEMENT BY AND BETWEEN THE CITY OF BREMERTON AND GENERAL TEAMSTERS LOCAL UNION NO. 589, JANUARY 1, 1995 THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 1997, #AR95-089 The attached Labor Agreement between the City of Bremerton and the General Teamsters Local 589 has been negotiated pursuant to the provisions of RCW Chapter 41.56, the Public Employees Collective Bargaining Statute of the State of Washington, for the purpose of setting forth the wages, hours, and working conditions which are to be in effect during the term of the agreement for all employees included in the general employees bargaining unit which is represented by the Union. The attached agreement replaces the existing agreement, which expired on December 31, 1994. Jim Meith, Human Resources Manager, stated at the time the Agenda Bill was developed, the ratification vote had not been taken by the Teamster's membership, however, that has now been taken and they overwhelmingly ratified the contract and recommend ratification by the City Council. Negations for the Teamsters' group started in late September/early October of 1994. He believed the negotiating experience was very positive and both negotiating teams worked well together. Public comment - none. #1872 TAPE #1284 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 26, 1995 Page 8 of 13 Mr. Overson complimented Mr. Meith on a "job well done". He questioned the cost of the increases identified in the contract? Mr. Meith stated the cost amounts to approximately $248,084.00. Mr. overson asked the funding source to cover the cost as identified? Mr. Meith stated the Budget/Salary/Benefits Reserve Fund does have enough funds to cover the cost of the Teamsters' contract and was approved in the Budget for the 1995 fiscal year. Mr. Law asked if it was normal to not have anyone from the Union present during this discussion? Mr. Meith stated it has been his experience in other jurisdictions that some times there is representation and some times there isn't, however, an invitation was extended. M/S/C/U(Colvin/Montgomery) to approve the Labor Agreement by and between the City of Bremerton and the General Teamsters Local Union No. 589 for the period January 1, 1995 through December 31, 1997. 7C - LABOR AGREEMENT BY AND BETWEEN THE CITY OF BREMERTON AND BREMERTON PATROLMEN'S A88OCIATION, JANUARY 1, 1995THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 1996, ~XB95-090 The attached Labor Agreement between the City of Bremerton and the Bremerton Patrolmen's Association has been negotiated pursuant to the provisions of RCW Chapter 41.56, the Public Employees Collective Bargaining Statute of!the State of Washington, for the purpose of setting forth the wages, hours, and working conditions which are to be in effect during the term of the agreement for all employees included in the bargaining unit which is represented by the Union. This agreement is the result of numerous bargaining sessions starting in August of 1994. On January 30, a mediation session was held as a result of an impasse being declared in the negotiating process. This agreement has been ratified by the members of the Bremerton Patrolmen's Association. The attached agreement replaces the existing agreement, which expired on December 31, 1994. Jim Meith, Human Resources Manager, stated this proposal is the result of a negotiating process that started in August 1994. He pointed out this process was verypositive, which was a change from past efforts with this group. Police chief Paul Du Fresne along with Mr. Meith were actively involved in the mediation process and in the final resolution of some language development towards the end of the negotiations. He urged Council's ratification of this contract as proposed. Public comment - none. Mr. Overson noted this proposal is costing the City a little more than expected and asked if a Budget Adjustment will be required as #2192 #2250 TAPE #1284 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 26, 1995 Page 9 of 13 well? ME. Melth stated if a Budget Adjustment is needed, the Police Department will initiate such action through the Treasurer's Office. The cost of this contract is more than what was budgeted for 1995. When that budget was originally put together, the budgeted amount was based historically on past years negotiations. Unfortunately, without a Police Chief or anyone heading up the Personnel Department, there wasn't as thorough discussion that should have taken place, and we need to make sure in this budget process that there are those types of discussions. Due to unanticipated vacancies within the Police Department, it appears there will be enough funding to cover the cost of this labor agreement. ME. OveEson stated when Council approves a budget it includes assignment of positions, particularly in the Police Department and Council is emphatic that positions will be filled. And, if they are not filled, then they need to be removed as a position. He questioned if he understood correctly that a natural attrition took place within the department? ME. Meith stated Mr. Overson was correct. The vacancies are not being used as a way to balance the Department budget, however, as it turns out there have been unanticipated vacancies that resulted in some budget savings. ME. Colvin asked if Council was approving the proposal anticipating something might not be done? Rich Hanna, Acting City Clerk, stated in the budget process the Administration gave a best guess estimate of the dollar cost of settling both of these collective bargaining agreements that would be expiring at the end of 1994. In the case of the Teamsters contract, the estimate was a little larger than the actual cost. In the case of the Patrolmen's agreement, the estimate was a little low, however, overall adequate provision has been made within the Budget to settle both of the agreement as proposed. In addition to those set asides, the money that was originally placed in the Police Department, as in all departments of the City for personnel costs, was predicated on all authorized positions being full all times during the year, knowing full well that will not be the case, but as indicated there is no way to predict the future and know what positions will be filled. M/S/C/U(Farr/Montgomery) to approve the Labor Agreement by and between the City of Bremerton and the Bremerton Patrolmen's Association for the period January 1, 1995 through December 31, 1996. 8A - ORDINANCE NO. 4512 (SECOND READING) AMENDING UTILITY REGULATION8 ON LATECOMER'8 AGREEMENTS, FRONT FOOTAGE FEES, AND APPEALS, #AB95-084 Public comment - none. M/S/C/U(Law/Montgomery) to pass Ordinance No. 4512 on second reading, amending utility regulations to extend the reimbursement #2329 TAPE #1284 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 26, 1995 Page 10 of 13 period for developer on system improvements and clarifying administrative appeals from utility actions; and amending Title 15 of the Bremerton Municipal Code. 9A - RESOLUTION NO. 2511, AUTHORIZING lAG APPLICATION, EVERGREEN PARK REDEVELOPKENT, PHASE I, #XB95-091 This project begins the redevelopment of Evergreen Park as outlined in the new master plan. This project addresses 6 acres in the older section of the park, and includes park rehabilitation, shoreline restoration, restrooms, picnic shelters, trails, walkway, parking, and playground equipment. Jodie Wroblewski, Assistant Parks Director, stated the Interagency For. Outdoor Recreation (IAC) provides funding for development and acquisition grants to local agencies, such as the City, and other agencies that have outdoor recreation projects. This proposal is requesting permission to begin the redevelopment of Evergreen Park. Public comment - none. M/S/C/U(Winters/Colvin) to adopt Resolution No. 2511, authorizing the Mayor to submit an application to IAC (Interagency Committee for Outdoor Recreation) for funding assistance for the redevelopment of Evergreen Park, Phase I. 9B - RESOLUTION NO. 2512, AUTHORIZING IAC APPLICATION, BLUEBERRY PARK DEVELOPMENT, #AB95-092 This project offers an exciting opportunity to enhance Bremerton's Park facilities by developing a neighborhood park. Components of the project include a perimeter walking trail, playground equipment, a large open meadow, enhancement of the wetlands, and interpretive areas. A parking lot and restrooms are also planned. The "Pea Patches" will be moved and more plots will be provided. Also, the grove of blueberry plants will be retained and enhanced. Jodie Wroblewski, Assistant Parks Director, stated this request is for grant assistance from IAC. As with the Evergreen Park Project and the Blueberry Park Project, a number of public meetings have been held and public input given as to the types of amenities they would like in those locations, which were incorporated in to a Master Plan. Public comment - none. Mr. Farr stated he sat on the review committee during the presentations by the two designing consulting firms and was very impressed with both. He finds the renovation plans for Evergreen Park to be very exciting as are the plans for development of Blueberry Park. He asked if Ms. Wroblewski had a time frame when #2641~ TAPE #1284 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 26, 1995 Page 11 of 13 the City might know if they have been awarded an IAC grant? Ms. Wroblewski stated the City's application will include an interview with IAC by the end of August and then the proposal is forwarded on to the Governor in December, which is then brought to the State Legislature in January. The City will know if funding is awarded to the City by June 1996. Mr. Fare noted part of the design work has been done on the parks to assure the City the best possible chance of receiving an IAC grant. Ms. Wroblewski pointed out both of the consultants have a good history of getting their projects funded through IAC. Mr. Winters asked if the plans being presented to IAC would be available for public viewing? Ms. Wroblewski stated it is her intent to have a public display in City Hall. Mr. Overson complimented Ms. Wroblewski for her efforts along with the rest of the Parks Department and contractors for identifying the IAC grants and going through significant effort preparing for them. Based on what he as seen, he believes the City has an excellent package to present. He complimented Ms. Wroblewski individually for her efforts in maintaining stability and continuity in the Parks Department during the recent turn over of Parks Directors. Mr. Wroblewski stated the Department appreciates the Council's and Mayor's support. M/S/C/U(Montgomery/Colvin) to adopt Resolution No. 2512, authorizing the Mayor to submit an application to IAC for funding assistance for the development of Blueberry Park. iOA - CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT REDISTRICTING, #]~395-086 Bill Huntinuton, Central Puget Sound Economic Development District, stated his purpose at this point is to see if there is any additional input on this proposal. Larr~ Stone, 1824 South Marine Drive, stated he wished to address a comment made by Councilman Overson at the previous Council meeting regarding the perception he had that the defeat of Proposition I in 1993 constituted the rejection of a 7-member Council He emphasized that might be Mr. Overson's perception and it might actually be accurate. However, he was chairman of the Initiative Petition drive to put the issue on the ballot and when they were going through the agonies of defeat, they engaged in a great deal of introspection and felt there were a wide variety of scenarios that contributed to their defeat. The 'issue itself was looked upon by a great many voters as an anti-Mayor or anti-Mentor movement and seemed to be borne out in the ballot count that showed the vote for former Mayor Mentor was 3,621 and the vote against Proposition I was 3,630. One might logically say were those votes TAPE #1284 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 26, 1995 Page 12 of 13 a pro-Mentor vote or were they anti-Proposition I, we'd really be hard pressed to say. The Ballot title also was asking the population to go from a Mayor/Council type of government to a Council/Manager type of government and a lot of people were against such an idea. In addition, the public was being asked to abandon the City Charter concept and go to a Non-Charter Code City, and there were people who didn't like that idea. On top of that, they were also suggesting that a 6-man Council be approved with a Mayor/Council President elected at large, and there were people who didn't like that idea. There were people who did not like downsizing and there were people who didn't like seeing the Council that large. Therefore, there were six potential objection sources, all of which could have contributed to their demise as a successful ballot issue. He believes there are reasonable assumptions that there might be a more valid indictment of the issue itself. As far as he can determine, the citizens in the City of Bremerton have never had the opportunity to vote on whether or they should have a 7-member or a 9-member Council. In response to Mr. Winter's question about the reason for a 7- member Council as opposed to a 9-member Council, it is certainly an economic issue. Every decade has its buzz word...in the 1990's it appears to be "downsizing", which took over industry in the early 90's and is now into government, not with the aim of contributing to the unemployment roll, but to reduce the cost of doing business and when government does that they reduce the tax load. There seems to be some logic ... if the Council is reduced to 7 at the present minimal stipend, it would lower the legislative cost to the taxpayer by 23%. Add to that the fact that 75% of the 45 largest cities in the State of Washington only have 7-Council members and they seem to find it successful. The City of Los Angeles for 3 1/2 million voters only have 7-Council members. He felt Mr. Winter's question was good, however, he believed a better question would be "why 9-Council members instead of 7"?. If you have 9 because it has been traditional, but you can't establish that 9 is better than 7, then he felt serious investigation should be given that issue. Mr. Farr asked if the Rocky Point Annexation is approved, how would Rocky Point be incorporated into the Districts? Mr. Huntington stated the reasons they left the three districts that surround Rocky Point lighter is so they can absorb the added population of 1,400 people. He emphasized the precincts and boundaries will change and will be redrawn by the County. There should not be any split precincts between districts. Mr. Law asked for clarification once we are all through will he be staying with the precinct lines or are you cutting into precinct lines? Mr. Huntington explained the lines will be moved so that the residents fall all within one Council District. Once Council gives its approval for the proposed TAPE #1284 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 26, 1995 Page 13 of 13 redistricting, he will provide a map that shows any precinct changes made by the County. Mr. Law stated a load was being placed on the County to have this done because the appeal date will run into late June and the Filing For An Elected Office date is the last week of July, which means the County will have to have all of those precinct lines changed in order for anyone to file for a Precinct Committeeman. Mr. Huntington assured Mr. Law there was not a timing problem. TAPE #1285 Mr. Overson asked if Mr. Huntington could provide more detail as to which precinct lines will likely change by the next Council meeting or provide a written statement identifying the affected precincts? Mr. Overson complimented Mr. Stone on his rapid presentation and brief summary of the 7 or 9 Council member issue, but he did not point out the primary reason for the 9-member Council and why we're staying with that number so far is because this Council is part time and is a very active Council involving a lot of Committee meetings and distributing that across nine people on a part time basis works better than distributing it over 7 Council members on a part time basis. If Council members became full time, that would change the issue. Mr. Colvin stated the City of Los Angeles has almost as many staff members as they do Council members and he did not believe a comparison could be made between the two cities. With no further business meeting adjourned at 7:05 P.M. KATHLEEN L. McCLUSKEY, City Clerk City of BreF~on KLM/SH-M/me cc: Normal Distribution File/Vault President