HomeMy WebLinkAbout11/09/99
TAPES #1659, #1660, & #1661
CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
November 9, 1999
The weekly meeting of the City Council of the City of Bremenon was called to order in the City
Council Chambers, 239 4th Street, Bremerton, Washington, Tuesday, November 9, 1999, at 5:30
P.M., with Council President Mike Shepherd presiding. Council members present were Jim Reed,
Carlos Montgomery, Carol Arends, David Farr, Lon Overson, and Cecil McConnetl. Council members
Wayne Olsen and John Law were absent. Also in attendance were City Attorney Glenna Malanca,
Acting Clerk Rich Hanna, and Legislative Assistant Lori Smith.
The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance led by Council President Shepherd, followed by
the invocation, given by Reverend James Berentson of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church.
Council President Shepherd made the following announcements:
(1) City Council held a Study Session in the Council Conference room, prior to the meeting, to
discuss general Council business;
(2) The Study Session scheduled to follow the meeting tonight to discuss "Recommendations of
the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee", has been postponed to follow the City Council meeting
next Wednesday, November 17, 1999, in the Council Conference room; and
(3) City Council has scheduled a retreat this Saturday, November 13, 1999, from 10:00 A.M. to
1:30 P.M., at the Oyster Bay Inn on Kitsap Way.
CONSENT AGENDA
A. Minutes of Meeting- October 27, 1999 #AB99-233
B. Acceptance of Bulletproof Vest Partnership Grant #AB99-234
#0010 M/S/C/U (McConnell/Montgomery) Motion 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.
#0025 M/S/C/U (Montgomery/Arends) On November 9, 1999, the Council does approve for payment
those vouchers included and further described as follows: 236056 through 236184 in the amount of
$544,525.17; and Regular Payroll for the period ending October 31, 1999, in the amount of
$911,541.27.
COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS
Carol Arends stated she was happy to see such a large crowd tonight, and also urged their
attendance at the Democratic "Town Hall" meeting with State Legislatures to be held here in the
Council Chambers tomorrow night, Wednesday, November 10, 1999, from 6:30 to 8:30 P.M.
Council President Mike Shepherd was glad to be back from a recent trip to Dublin Ireland, and will
postpone a more detailed report until next week.
MAYOR'S REPORT
Mayor Horton also urged citizens to attend the Statue Legislative Town Hall meeting tomorrow night,
where topics will include the impact of I-695.
TAPES #1659, #1660 & #1661
City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes
November 9, 1999
Page 2 of 10
Fire Chief AI Duke presented a plaque to honor Linda Moen; Patricia Peat; and Valerie Grahn,
three voluateers instrumental in the "Grace A Bremerton Firefighter'' fundraiser.
Police Chief Robert Forbes introduced Officer Tim Lopez, recently promoted to Sergeant; and new
Bremerton Police Officers Brent A. Prante, Randy D. Plumb, and Kenny Davis. An "Oath of Office"
ceremony was then conducted by Judge James Docter.
LEGISLATIVE REPORT
Due to the absence of John Law, who was representing the Olympic Peninsula at a
Department of Transportation meeting this evening, citizens of District 3, lower Manette area,
are reminded of the District 3 meeting next Tuesday, November 16, 1999 at the Senior
Center located at E. 13th Nipsic Avenue at 7:00 P.M. The topic will be a discussion on "View
Corridor Requirements by the City of Bremerton Today, and the Thoughts for the Future".
The first half-hour will be devoted to the usual exchange of questions and concerns, followed
by the main topic of the evening. Attendance is not limited to residents of District 3.
PUBLIC RECOGNITION
John Becker discussed his thoughts on the decisions to be made regarding the City budget and the
proposed purchase of the KPS building for a new City Hall.
Susan Brown asked if the Council Retreat was still taking place, and was the "Council Rules &
Procedures" item still on the schedule? President Shepherd announced the Retreat would be held
this Saturday, at Oyster Bay Inn on Kitsap Way, from 10:00 A.M. to 1:30 P.M.
Elizabeth Buell asked the Council not to increase any taxes. Gordy Byrd concurred.
Gary L. Augustyn voiced his concerns over the barricades in place of traffic lights at various
intersections downtown; and also the lack of a shelter for homeless people in Bremerton.
Larry Dickerson felt that Kitsap Transit should go back to concentrating on transportation service.
Phil Broms encouraged the City to reduce expenses, rather than laying off Police officers.
9A - CONTRACT WITH KPS FOR HEALTH BENEFITS. #AB99-235
Peggy Lesser, Risk Manager, stated that the current contract for medical benefits provided by KPS
Health Plans will end December 31, 1999. The City wishes to continue to provide its employees and
retirees with these benefits, and has negotiated premium rates for 2000 that are 1.7% above 1999
rates. The proposed contract can be extended through 2002, with no more than a 9% increase in
premium rates.
There were no questions or comments from the pubtic.
Mr. Reed asked why competitive bids were not provided. Ms. Lesser explained that a formal bid
process did not take place, however in light of recent events, the market was tested, which showed
the rates of the other two active carriers to be significantly higher.
#1060 M/S/C/U (Montgomery/Overson) Motion to approve the Agreement between KPS Health Plans
and the City of Bremerton.
TAPES #1659, #1660 & #1661
City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes
November 9, 1999
Page 3 of 10
9B - ACCEPTANCE OF IAC-YAF PROJECT AGREEMENT FOR THE WARREN AVENUE
PLAYFIELD RENOVATION GRANT. #AB99-236
Jodi Wroblewski, Assistant Director of Parks & Recreation, mentioned that the City has been
awarded a $61,031 grant from the Interagency Committee for Outdoor Recreation (Youth Athletic
Facilities). In order to receive the funding the Mayor must enter into a standard Project Agreement
with the IAC. This funding is being matched by City funds of $74,188 for a total project expenditure of
$135,219 to renovate Warren Avenue Play Field. The renovation includes grading, installing a
drainage system and an irrigation system, and installing turf. This is a project that has been long
awaited by area residents, the PeeWee sports organization, and many soccer players. This is one of
the City's few lighted fields and is used heavily, in spite of its poor condition.
There were no comments from the public.
Mr. Montgomery stated these field improvements were tong overdue.
Mr. McConnell stated that the passage of I-695 was the "voice of the people" asking for more cut
backs, therefore he could not support this item. He asked that the City stop accepting grants, which
ask for "matching funds". Mr. Reed clarified that the "matching funds" do not come out of the
General Fund, but rather the Roosevelt Capital Trust Fund, which can only be used for Capital
Improvements of parks. Mr. Farr established there were sufficient funds in the Roosevelt Capital
Trust Fund to cover this expense.
#1200 M/S/C (Montgomery/Overson) Motion to authorize the Mayor to sign the IAC Project
Agreement for the Warren Avenue.
Vote on Motion: In Favor: Arends, Montgomery, Reed, Overson, Farr, Shepherd
Opposed: McConnell
Motion carried.
9C - PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR DESIGN SERVICES FOR GORST CREEK
RESTORATION. #AB99-237
Gene Sampley, Director of Public Works & Utilities, reported that the requested agreement with the
Watershed Company is to provide site survey, stream flow analysis, biological assessment, design
and construction documents (to include plans, specifications, and estimates) for restoration of
approximately 750 feet of Gorst Creek. The Watershed Company has previously provided a
conceptual plan of the project site. A completed design package is necessary to position the
proposed restoration project to compete for State Salmon Recovery grants to implement construction,
and to apply for the necessary hydraulics permits. Gorst Creek is one of the largest streams within
the Sinclair Inlet watershed and supports several native salmon species including chum and coho
salmon. For over fifteen years, Gorst Creek has been the site of a cooperative chinook rearing facility
that releases over 2 million fish annually. A stream segment adjacent to Jarstad Park, currently in a
channeled condition, has been identified as a candidate for restoration to a natural streambed with
associated riparian vegetation and wetlands. The proposed project will restore migration, spawning,
and rearing habitat to a natural condition. Kitsap County PUD has approved a grant for $50,000,
which will fully fund the requested design services. It is recommended that the City Council approve
this proposal and authorize the Mayor to execute the attached Professional Services Agreement with
the Watershed Company of Kirkland, WA, in accordance with the established administrative policies
and procedures. A conceptual plan was provided.
TAPES #1659, #1660 & #1661
City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes
November 9, 1999
Page 4 of 10
There were no comments from the pubtic.
Mr. Farr stated this was an offer to provide a study at no cost to the City, and when executed, would
enhance the watershed area. Mr. McConnell asked if $50,000 would cover the full costs.
Sampley stated yes, for the design portion. The City will then compete for State funds.
#1350 M/S/C/U (Farr/Montgomery) Motion to approve and authorize the Mayor to execute the
attached Professional Services Agreement with the Watershed Company of Kirkland, WA in
accordance with established administrative policies and procedures.
9D - BID AWARD FOR SUPERVISORY CONTROL AND DATA ACQUISITION (SCADA)
UPGRADES AT THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT. #AB99-238
Pat Coxon, Wastewater Treatment Plant Manager, stated that the Department of Public Works and
Utilities seeks approval for the award of the contract bid for the upgrade of the SCADA electrical
wiring and controls for buildings 500 and 700 at the Wastewater Treatment Plant. This contract
consists of the furnishing of all labor, materials, tools, equipment, and services required to complete
the installation, wiring, connection, calibration, adjustment, testing and operation of all electrical
equipment, devices, and components, within the primary and disinfecting portions of the Wastewater
Treatment Rant. Bids were called and opened for the SCADA electrical wiring and controls upgrade
on November 2, 1999, per City policies and procedures. The Engineering estimate for this project
was $50,000. A total of 3 bids were received and staff recommends award to Custom Controls, the
low responsive bidder, in the amount of $23,647.11.
There were no questions or comments from the public.
Mr. Montgomery clarified this project was not affected by the passage of I-695, but was a necessary
expense to upgrade the Wastewater Treatment Plant, with funds provided from the Utility's budget.
President Shepherd added this step was also necessary for Y2K compatibility.
Mr. Farr asked if the contractor has an established history with the City, and was the City happy with
the performance? Mr. Coxon responded that Custom Controls assisted the City with a catastrophic
failure of a pump station earlier this year, and verified the City was happy with the results.
#1425 M/S/C/U (Montgomery/Arends) Motion to approve the contract bid for the upgrade of the
SCADA electrical wiring and controls to the lowest responsive bidder, Custom Controls, in the amount
of $23,647.11 and authorize the Mayor to sign the contract, subject to City Administrative Policies and
Procedures.
Prior to the presentation of the following Ordinances (which were heard in an amended order), Rich
Hanna, City Treasurer, along with Mayor Horton presented a brief update of information previously
provided to the Council on the "2000 General Fund Budget", along with handouts. Mayor Horton
emphasized that the City of Bremerton was already a "pretty lean organization", and has had no "fat"
in the budget for a number of years. She further added that cuts already done in the past few years
have hurt, and the City is now at the point that if further cuts were to take place to certain
Departments, it would mean those departments might as well close their doors. She pointed out the
City's largest budgets were in the Parks, Fire, and Police Departments, and acknowledged proposed
cuts to those departments would be very severe, including the elimination of all fire prevention in the
City of Bremerton; closing Fire Station No. 1; elimination of Crime Prevention & DARE programs; the
possibility of contracting or eliminating Animal Control, and limited City Hall hours.
TAPES #1659, #1660 & #1661
City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes
November 9, 1999
Page 5 of 10
10C - ORDINANCE (FIRST READING), ESTABLISHING REGULATORY AND REVENUE
LICENSING OF RESIDENTIAL RENTAL BUSINESSES: AND CREATING A NEW CHAPTER IN
TITLE 5 OF THE BREMERTON MUNICIPAL CODE, #AB99-241
Mayor Horton proposed that the City establish revenue/regulatory licensing of businesses or
individuals that rent and/or lease residential dwelling units. The large number of rental units in the
City places a high demand on services such as police and fire. This licensing program will help
defray those costs.
Police Chief Robert Forbes provided a brief report, including statistics, on service calls made to
rental property locations, which he stated were 70% of the total calls. Fire Chief AI Duke then
provided statistics on calls-for-service for the same properties.
Matt Puffer stated it was the job of the Police and Fire Departments to provide service to citizens.
He pointed out that any added fees would just be passed on to renters, who are already low-income.
Wayne Evans stated the provided statistics were indicative of low-income areas of most other cities.
Alan Fricke suggested low-interest loans for property owners; bonds for citizens to invest in their
City; and reopening City jails. Mr. Hanna stated the City has an on-going Rental Rehab Program
through the Department of Community Development, funded by CDBG grants. However, it would be
considered "Public Gifting", and against State Statures, for the City to issue debt in its own name to
develop private properties. Chief Forbes explained the City jails were closed many years ago due to
antiquated conditions, which would cost 10's of thousands of dollars to bring up to code.
TAPE #1660
Jon Borcherding, representing the Libertarian Party of Washington State, supported I-695 because
he believed government is "too big". He stated the passage of this initiative was a message from the
voters to limit taxes, and anything else circumvents the will of the people.
David Wingo did not think the number of service calls from police should be taken into consideration,
because landlords do not have control over this. He also pointed out that many of the renters are
low-income, and could not afford the increase.
Jim Collins stated he takes great effort in screening, but still has a problem getting "good tenants".
He felt a larger problem was the cost for water, sewer, and garbage. In response to the statistic of
70% of service calls to tenters, he pointed out 70% of the houses in Bremerton are rentals.
Gary L, Augustyn asked if the City of Bremerton had a reserve fund, and if not, stated the City
should have created one at lease five years ago. Mayor Horton addressed the issue of the City's
Reserve Fund, which she stated if depleted, would cause the City's "bond rating" to drop. She
indicated that the amount would not even cover the shortfall for the year 2000.
Bert Richardson stated most landlords would take this increase, and pass it on to their tenters. He
also pointed out that many residents would then probably leave. He felt there were other areas the
Mayor could "trim" the budget.
Barbara Strassburg read a letter into the record stating her opposition to this increase.
Freda French took exception with the Council's public speaking policies, which she felt were "un-
democratic" and did not show an open-minded process. She felt service-calls took too long.
TAPES #1659, #1660 & #1661
City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes
November 9, 1999
Page 6 of 10
Lois Hansen stated she saw a lot of crime during her years living in Westpark, which added to her
concern about proposed cuts to police and fire service.
Tammy Waldbillig stated she lives in Seabeck, so does not get to vote for Bremerton officials and
levies, however she pays for them because she owns property in the City.
Michelle Grisby pointed out that 70% of calls to rental units is reflective of 70% of City residents who
are renters. She urged the Council to hold further Study Sessions on this issue.
Candace Desalbo stated that she lives on a disability income, and if this increase were imposed, the
landlords would only pass it on to the renters, which she could not afford.
Gerald VanFossen, of Puget Rental Owners Association, read a letter into the record stating his
opposition to this increase.
Jim Adrian presented a report detailing Bremerton & Kitsap County Navy/Regional Housing
Economic Issues. He asked the City to provide an Ordinance with infiationary indexes to all user
fees; and not raise any taxes until the Legislatures have had an opportunity to closely study this
issue. The City could then call a Community Economic Summit with all interested parties putting
something on the ballot within 30-60 days if the Legislature does not come up with a "fix".
Doug Knighhart, representing the Washington Apartment Association, felt this was a "slap in the
face" to tenants and landlords. He also pointed out this ordinance may be illegal, and should be
looked out more closely by the City Attorney.
Robert Corley added that taxing a portion of the people for the benefit of the whole was a form of
discrimination.
Janice Gill, Manager of View Crest Village Apartments, stated they could not afford this tax, which
would be passed on to renters, who could also not afford it.
Larry Dickerson reminded Council of a "residence fee" he previously suggested, which would be a
straight-across-the-board tax for everyone, not singling out any particular group.
Ron Floffleson has already dropped the rent in his units, and finds his tenants are still struggling to
pay. He commented there were so many renters in this City because no one wants to stay, and
questioned how this fee would be applied if units were "vacant". He felt it was important for the City
to talk with the State Legislature.
Lou Weir stated that all citizens should be allowed to speak, even if it is repetitive. Also, some of his
renters are not paying their rent, therefore. any fees would be a burden to the landlord.
Rex Gray failed to see the correlation between the drop in license fees and the City budget. If there
is such an impact, he felt the City should go to the State for assistance.
Mr. Hanna reiterated that due to the passage of I-695, the revenue loss to the City will be
approximately $500,000 in 2000; and $700,00 in the year 2001, and every year thereafter. In
addition, the City was already in a $400,000 deficit before the passage of I-695.
Margie Singleton asked why the City is considering the purchase of the KPS building if the City is
already in debt.
TAPES #1659, #1660 & #1661
City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes
November 9, 1999
Page 7 of 10
Walter Bail stated when Bremerton was a thriving City about 50 years ago, there were less people
running City Hall then, than there is now.
Bert Ganger recently annexed into the City, and did not feel the City has done a good job in keeping
track of its budget. He questioned the equity of the $50 per year increase for a landlord, and
therefore a tenant, while only charging a business license fee $30.00. Mr. Hanna clarified that in
addition to the business license, a business owner is also paying B&O taxes, property taxes, in
addition to a 1% tax on all gross receipts of retail sales.
Cliff Maynard asked what was the City's budget, why was this situation not seen five years ago, and
what will be done to prevent this problem in the future. Mr. Hanna stated that he could not have
anticipated this event [I-695] five years ago.
Carol Atkinson pointed out the ideal location of the City's waterfront property should be of focus.
Paul Gordon asked who would be spending money at the retail shops.
Daniel Richabaugh used the analogy of "pouring gasoline on a fire".
Pat Wright felt a lesson could be learned from his experience of 23 years in the Navy, where
massive cuts were imposed, but still government and bureaucracy grew.
Elizabeth Buell asked Council to reconsider this idea, to spread the responsibility to everyone.
John Becker commented on the Mayor's briefing, and stated that instead of the City cutting back
people in the Police and Fire Departments, they look in other departments, such as the Engineering
Department. He felt this deficit was an oversight by the City Council and the Mayor, not citizens.
Closed to the pubtic, and open to the City Council...
Mr. Farr stated that to address the budget deficit, there needs to be a combination of both logical cuts
in service, and some fee increases. He pointed out this item currently being discussed, was actually
two issues. He therefore proposed that Council take "the numbers" to the Council Retreat on
Saturday, allowing for further study of several different options. President Shepherd assumed the
vote of I-695 meant to cut costs by "reducing government", and would like to consider that at length.
Mr. McConnell did not feel he had enough information, with enough time, to make a decision tonight.
Mr. Montgomery stated he would only attend the Retreat if the topic were to deal strictly with the
Budget and related issues. Mrs. Arends pointed out that any decision would affect a portion of the
population. She stated the Council is in the position to not only "reduce government", but to also
impose State mandates. She again encouraged citizens to attend the Town Meeting sponsored by
the State Legislatures tomorrow night. She also suggested citizens write to Governor Locke and their
local Legislature on this, as well as other related issues.
Mr. Farr stated additional information was also needed on the inclusion of large developments such
as those Westpark, nursing homes, boarding houses, and units operated under the control of a
licensed property management firm. Ms. Malanca stated that because nursing homes are
commercial establishments, they would not be included; however the homes in Westpark, any
boarding houses, and also properties owned by professional management firms would be included.
She further clarified that vacant units would not be subject to the full license fee.
TAPES #1659, #1660 & #1661
City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes
November 9, 1999
Page 8 of 10
Mr. Reed stated he viewed this issue separate from the passage of I-695. He looked at the
ownership. of rental units as a "business", and property owners should pay their equitable share. He
pointed out the number of fees a "real" business in the City would have to pay. He also felt that a fair
amount of rental units placed a burden on City services. Mr. Overson agreed.
Mr. McConnell asked that Council not vote on this issue tonight, until further information is received.
He also pointed out for the benefit of the public, that this is the "normal" time of year that fee and tax
increases are imposed.
Mr. Hanna announced that a number of letters, phone calls, and e-mail messages were received by
the Council, which are contained in a folder that has been routed to all Council members.
#3330 M/S/C/U (Farr/Overson) Motion to approve the ordinance on first reading, to establish a
license, but without the fee schedule included (to be addressed at a later date). It was also requested
that prior to the second reading of this ordinance, the following issues be addressed: l) questions
regarding vacancies; 2) definition of included properties (properly define which varieties are not
included); 3) addressing the issue of phasing-in this issue over time; and 4) defining whether this fee
will be computed at the beginning, or the end of the year.
TAPE #1661
10D - ORDINANCE (FIRST READING) IMPOSING A COMMERCIAL PARKING TAX: AND
ADDING A NEW CHAPTER TO TITLE 3 OF THE BREMERTON MUNICIPAL CODE, #AB99-242
Kathleen McCluskey, Administrative Services Director, proposed that the City levy a commercial
parking tax of ten percent (10%) on parking revenues generated by commercial parking businesses
to defray the costs of street repairs. This tax revenue must be dedicated to transportation purposes
in accordance with RCW 82.80.070. She pointed out the allowed use of any proceeds ($200,000)
was very broad; and the City's parking fees are one of the lowest in the State. Due to time
constraints, it will be difficult to impose these fees prior to December 1. She stated that concerns
have been raised by local parking businesses over the City's prices being lower than their prices,
therefore the City has been "undercutting" them. Adding this tax to their gross revenues only adds to
their problems. She agreed the City's fees for parking have been low, and therefore, pointed out that
in a Eater ordinance this evening, the City has included a proposed increase to City parking fees.
John Becker asked how many parking spaces are in the City of Bremerton; and pointed out the
possible costs of administrating it. Ms. McCluskey stated the collection of just about any tax is the
"honor system", and audits are not done unless something looks out of the ordinary. She stated this
particular tax would be put on the City's existing B&O tax system, therefore, after the initial start-up,
no additional staffing or even forms will be required.
Bob Dupree, Manager of Diamond Parking, stated that Bremerton is unique, and his personal goal
has always been to not bring "Seattle" [parking problems] to Bremerton.
Rich McDonald, General Manager of Bremer Trust, felt this tax was targeting a specific business
sector, which is already paying its share of taxes. He felt this tax would inhibit the leasing of buildings
and property, which would add a negative image on downtown.
Lou Weir was opposed to this tax, especially in light of the current problems getting business
downtown. He felt there were other, more effective ways to generate additional income for the City
budget, without damaging the image of downtown.
TAPES #1659, #1660 & #1661
City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes
November 9, 1999
Page 9 of 10
Jerry Soriano was also opposed to this tax. He pointed out that each year the City seems to need
money, but should not target small businesses, who are trying to bring people into the City.
At 9:10 P.M., Mr. Farr stepped down from voting on this issue, because his wife owns a parking lot
downtown.
Mr. Reed stated he had a problem with the "gross" amount being taxed, and suggested the item be
tabled until after the Retreat. Mr. McConnell agreed, but also wanted to know if the City had the
same authority as the County to impose a $15 fee every year to vehicles. Ms. Malanca stated she
would look into the issue, and provide an answer at the Retreat on Saturday.
Mr. Overson indicated the City has already significantly taxed this particular group, and agreed that
Council needed more time to look further into this issue. President Shepherd asked when the
revenue numbers from this proposed increase were studied, was the expected loss of commuters
due to the loss of several ferries considered. Mr. Hanna stated no, that rough estimates of the
current market of gross receipts from commercial parking lots were used. Mr. Montgomery stated
that even with the loss of ferries, he did not believe commuters were now driving around, and paying
the high parking prices in Seattle.
#1060 M/S/C/U (Reed/Overson) Motion to table this item for one week for further consideration.
Mr. Farr returned to the meeting immediately following the vote on the previous item.
10E - ORDINANCE (FIRST READING) AMENDING PENALTY AMOUNTS FOR CIVIL
INFRACTIONS AND MISDEMEANORS: AND AMENDING SEVERAL CHAPTERS OF THE
BREMERTON MUNICIPAL CODE, #AB99-243
Mayor Horton proposed that the City establish a higher ceiling for civil infraction penalties to $1,000
in order to give the Municipal Court Judge greater ability to assess more appropriate fines.
There were no questions or comments from the public.
#1130 M/S/C (McConnell/Arends) Motion to table this item for one week.
Vote on Motion: In Favor: Farr, Arends, Montgomery, Reed, McConnell,
Opposed: Overson, Shepherd
Motion carried.
IOA - ORDINANCE (FIRST READING) ESTABLISHING RATES AND FEES FOR ALL MUNICIPAL
LICENSES, PERMITS, ASSESSMENTS. USER FEES, AND PARKING FINES: AND CREATING A
NEW CHAPTER IN TITLE 3 OF THE BREMERTON MUNICIPAL CODE. #AB99-239
Mayor Horton stated that in order to avoid the costly process of holding an election for City rates and
fees increases within the next year, a "not to exceed" rate schedule for years 2000 through 2002 and
uniformly adopting annual CPI adjustments thereafter is being proposed.
John Becker asked why the aquatic center was not included on the list of 3% escalation increases.
Mr. Farr asked if the rate indicated for 1999 is the "present rate", or the "new rate" to be adopted
December 1, 19997 Mr. Hanna stated the rates and fees described on each of the attached
Schedules, were intended to include an adjustment for inflation from the present rate. Ms.
McCluskey stated that they would need to go over each of the Schedules, but in many cases there is
TAPES #1659, #1660 & #1661
City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes
November 9, 1999
Page 10 of 10
just a cost-of-living added. It was pointed out, however that some fees had not been amended for
several years, so more than a cost-of-living was added in those cases, and went through several
Schedules pointing out specific examples. In response an earlier comment regarding what amount of
money would be generated from these fees, and how much of an offset would be created, it was
explained that an exact figure was not available, but that it would not be very much. It was
emphasized that the intent of this ordinance was to keep pace with inflation.
Mr. McConnell referred to the Community Development - Rate Table C, and asked for further
explanation of the $600 fee listed for "Planning Commission Hearings". Jon Holan, Planning
Manager, stated there were costs involved for Public Hearings such as notices, legal notices for
appeals, and additional staff time for staff reports. The purpose is to recoup costs.
The reason and purpose for the passage of I-695 was discussed, and its relevancy to this issue.
Mr. Parr asked that information on the present rate, along with the proposed rate be included.
#1890 M/S/C (Overson/Montgomery) Motion to approve ordinance on first reading, with the exclusion
of Residential Rental Fees.
Vote on Motion: In Favor: Arends, Montgomery, Reed, Overson, Shepherd
Opposed: McConnell, Farr
Motion carried.
10B - ORDINANCE (FIRST READING) ESTABLISHING FULL COST RECOVERY FROM NON-
CITY RESIDENTS, #AB99-240
Mayor Horton stated that a large number of non-city residents utilize City services, many of which
are subsidized by city taxpayers. This ordinance requires recovery of costs for those services.
There were no comments from the public.
Mr. McConnell asked for further elaboration on what services would be affected. Mayor Horton
stated fees such as for the swimming pool, and ALS (Advanced Life Support) Transport fees.
#2090 M/S/C/(Arends/Farr) Motion to approve Ordinance establishing full recovery on first reading.
Vote on Motion: In Favor: Montgomery, McConneH, Overson, Farr, Arerids, Shepherd
Abstained: Reed
Motion carried.
With no further business meeting adjourned at 9:45 P.M.
City of Bremerton
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