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HomeMy WebLinkAbout04/06/94TAPE #1189 , UNAPPROVED DRAFT COUNCIL APPROVED APR 2 0 1994 CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES APRIL 6, 1994 #0024 #0036 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 6, 1994, at 5:30 P.M., with Council President Eileen Fitz presiding. Council members present were Morrie Dawkins, Bob Winters, Lon Overson, John law, A1 Colvin, and Sherril Huff-Menees. Council members Richard Neville and David Farr were absent. Also present were City Attorney Ian Sievers and Acting City Clerk Gil Johnson. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance led by Council President Fitz and Invocation given by Captain TerryWinters of the Salvation Army. President Fitz announced a Council Study Session will be held immediately following the City Council meeting to discuss "L.I.D. Policy". CONSENT AGENDA A. Minutes of Meeting -- March 23, 1994 #AB94-065 M/S/C/U(Dawkins/Colvin) to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. CLAIMS/WARRANT REGISTERS Vouchers audited and certified by the auditing officer as required by RCW42.24.0S0, 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. M/S/C/U(Colvin/Overson) on April 6, 1994, the Council does approve for payment those vouchers included and further described as follows: Retirees Payroll for the period ending March 31, 1994, in the amount of $94,387.33; and Regular Payroll for the period ending March 31, 1994, in the amount of $691,005.31. COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS Mr. Dawkins apologized to Gordy Byrd for a comment he made to him at the previous Council meeting. Mr. Colvin acknowledged the recent retirement of long time labor leader Bill Holt and through his friendship with Bill his life has been enriched. He believes that any man that accomplishes as much as Bill must have a good wife and extended "compliments" to Mrs. Holt. He recently learned of a proposed development, in District #1, consistingof 39-unit manufactured homes on 7 acres adjacent to TAPE #1189 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 6, 1994 Page 2 of 16 the north of Sylvan Way approximately 100 ft. west of Ricky Road. Recently, he met with Safe Streets Manager Henry Mincey, who has great plans that will take the leadership of everyone...the clergy, schools, citizens, youth, elected officials, etc. He urged everyone to help Mr. Mincey in his efforts to make Bremerton's streets safer. Mr. Winters stated he was contacted by a constituent from the downtown area who was concerned about people speeding down alleyways. He cautioned anyone traveling in alleys, to please slow down. And, he reminded everyone this week is "Spring Break" with lots of children on the streets, and asked drivers to please drive slower. Mrs. Fits reminded everyone of the Spring CleanUp 1994, April 16 - 24, for yard waste only. Yard waste will be accepted, at no cost, at Evergreen Park, 14th and Sheldon Blvd., 11:00 A.M. - 7:00 P.M. daily. She attended the Kitsap Regional Planning Council meeting this date where they discussed allocation of population for the City of Bremerton through the Growth Management Act. Bremerton had been designated to receive 20,000 new residents and there had been some consideration of a change in those number, however, after much discussion and public input the motion was made to table the issue indefinitely so the City's planning for growth management remains at 20,000. PUBLIC RECOGNITION Mayor L~nn Hotton read into the record her response to Brian Mueller's questions he raised at the previous Council meeting: Question,#1: "What percentage of the current water/sewer bill is to pay off the four million dollar lawsuit that was brought by the West Hills Association and when is it expected to be paid off?" Of the total 30% increase in utility bills, only 6% is being used for the lawsuit. The bonds issued mature in the years 2002-2007. Question #2: "Why has the stormwater charge been placed only on citizens who are on the sewer and/or water hookup?" Stormwater charges are to be assessed to all property owners who contribute to, or benefit from, the utility stormwater system and not just those hooked up to the water and/or sewer. Question #3: "was the West Hills lawsuit brought against the City of Bremerton or was it brought against the City of Bremerton Water/Sewer Utility?" First, a department of the City is not a legal entity which can be used. The City of Bremerton is the only proper party. Second, TAPE #1189 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 6, 1994 Page 3 of 16 municipalities are required by State law to follow a uniformsystem of accounting established by the State Auditor. The Auditor requires separate accounting of revenue and expenditure of enterprise funds. These funds are defined as those operating similar to a private business enterprise. The City's utility systems have long been established as such funds, with the intent being that the cost of providing goods to the general public on a continuing basis would be financed or recovered through user charges. State law requires a separate accounting for public service industries, showing the true and entire cost of ownership and operation. Laws also require that no public service industry may benefit in any financial matter whatsoever by appropriation from another City fund. Question #4: "How many grants, and what are they, has the City applied for since the settlement of the West Hills lawsuit and since passing the budget amendment for a Grants Writer? And, when is that Grants Writer position expected to be filled?" There have been 11 utility grants applied for in 1993 through 4/4/94. They are listed on the attached sheets. The Grants Writer position was funded in the 1994 budget - there was no budget adjustment. We will be asking for Council authorization to hire a Grants Writer at the April 13, 1994 City Council meeting. The contract can be signed the next day. Mayor Horton reported following the previous Council meeting the Utility Department staff looked into Mrs. Chard's utility bill after her testimony that her billing had increased by 100%. Her last three billing cycles were researched and it was determined that the increase she noted amounted to 32%, which could be attributed to the utility rate increases. Mayor Horton displayed a feature story in a publication called "SPEAKING OF FIRE", that told about the City of Bremerton's signboards that display fire and life safety messages in several locations around the City. Lori Jones, Bremerton's Fire Prevention Officer, submitted the article and she is to be congratulated for a great job in getting it published. The Parks Department's Spring & Summer '94 Activity Bulletin is out and available to the public. Upcoming events include: (1) April 13, 3:00 - 4:30 P.M., Arbor Day Celebration on the Boardwalk - ceremonial tree planting, displays, activities, master gardners and Puget Sound Environmental Division. (2) Learn To Shoot Pool event through the Parks and Recreation Department for ages 12-18, Thursdays 5:30 P.M. - 7:00 P.M., April TAPE #1189 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 6, 1994 Page 4 of 16 14 through June 2. (3) Indoor Flea Market and Crafts Sale at Sheridan Park Recreation Center. Tables can be rented at a cost of $15.00 and proceeds will benefit the Pendergast Regional Park. Mayor Morton read a Proclamation that designated SATURDAY, APRIL 9, 1994, as AMERICAN FORMER PRISONER OF WAR RECOGNITIONAND BATAAN DAY. And, she extended an invitation to the public to attend the American Ex-Prisoners Of War Memorial Service on April 9, 1994, 11:00 A.M., at the Bataan Park located on Sylvan Way. This observance is being conducted jointly with the American Ex- prisoners Of War Association and the Filipino-American Association of Kitsap County. Reverend John Eiohmann, Bremerton Servicemen's Center, accepted the Proclamation. He noted the Filipino-American Association will place a permanent plaque at Bataan Park in honor and in memory of Mr. Barrios, who came up with the idea to create the park and who passed away this year. Mayor Morton reported on this date she attended the Bremerton Central Lions Club meeting and was presented a check from the Lions Club for $12,000 to be used for the fountain on 4th Street. Dave Fergus, 262 4th Street, stated a lot of people have been involved in the 4th Street L.I.D. project. In the next 6-10 weeks installation will be completed on the clock, kiosk, drinking fountain, benches, large clay flower pots and a fountain. The fountain is the largest amenity to be built on the street and through the generosity of the Lions Club Foundation required funding was achieved to proceed with its installation. At this moment, he was wearing several hats, as a Lions Club member he was excited to hand over the check to the City, and as a property owner and citizens of Bremerton he was pleased to receive the check and as the designer of the fountain he was pleased that it was happening. He noted one of the major parts of this $12,000 donation came from the estate of a fellow Lion, who passed away this past year. Mark Wi11~amson, Director of the Bremerton Central Lions Charitable Foundation, stated the donation 'is being made in memory of Phil Meyer, who was born in 1900, served in the Navy during WWI, moved to Bremerton in 1930, and served this community for many years. Reverend John Eichmann, Bremerton Servicemen's Center, reported he received a "shocking" phone call from the USS Franklin Association indicating they were getting nowhere with the City to find a place to mount a granite memorial that was shipped to the City months ago. He pointed out the Franklin Association has offered to fund construction of the mounting for. the granite blocks. This Association is now looking at other areas where they may have a more cooperative welcome for such a memorial. Me hoped the City TAPE #1189 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 6, 1994 Page 5 of 16 Council and Mayor Horton would contact them and work out some kind of agreement. Bob Sauter, Veterans Advocate, stated he was also contacted by the USS St. Louis Association, another highly decorated ship that was contemplating a memorial to be placed in Bremerton, however, since they got word of what happened with the USS Franklin Association they since changed their mind and put their memorial in San Diego. It was his opinion that the Cityhad given the Franklin Association a very cold reception and that kind of news travels from one ship association to another. He urged the City to take under serious consideration treating the Franklin Association very well. Mr. Sauter noted many people died on the Bataan March (22,000 people died on a 65 mile march), and he felt strongly that it would behoove everyone to come out and pay tribute on April 9, to those men, those till missing as prisoners of war and those who survived that march. Mayor Hotton stated when the issue of the Franklin plaque came before her, one of the things she discussed with the Director of Parks and Recreation was looking at establishing a policy for what we do in our parks in terms of memorials, dedications, and the kinds of activities we sponsor/support so that we have an overall policy and take away the subjectivity of dealing with them case-by-case. Currently, City staff is reviewing that policy, which will be brought to Council in the near future. She apologized if there was a lapse in communications, it was certainly not intentional and a letter will be sent to the USS Franklin contingency to advise them of the City's progress. Deborah Chard stated she had never been billed for utility services on a set schedule and when she contacted the Utility Customer Service they indicated they were still trying to get the billing straightened out. She noted it took the Utility Department four months to just get a name change made. She did receive a phone call from the Utility Department following the previous Council meeting and they indicated the past $120.00 billing was only for one month on the new 30% increase and the next bill will be even higher, even with the little consumption that they use, at $134.00. She does not believe they are alone in struggling to pay the increased utility bills. In reference to the stormwater fee, she feels she should not be charged due to the fact that neither her residence or any houses on her street drain into the storm drain located at 17th and Elizabeth. Ca1 Leichman stated residents of Bremerton have the right for themselves as to whether dissolution of the Bremerton City government should be accomplished. Therefore, he and Brian Mueller challenge Mayor Horton and one other person of her choice, preferably on live T.V., to a roundtable discussion of the issues involved in this matter. It is suggested that this discussion take TAPE #1189 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 6, 1994 Page 6 of 16 place in a week or two. They believe, unless there are hidden issues, this discussion will take place. Harvey Gravis, Bremerton resident, stated he believes in "justice for all", however, he's not sure the City believes it based on the increased reflected in the sewer bills, which he believes were passed without the voice of the people. He asked the following questions: (1) If the City was sued, what were the lawyers paid to defend the City? And, where did the money come from...the Utility etc.? (2) He referenced a proposed project of manufactured homes in the City and questioned if manufactured homes were allowed in the City? (3) In reference to a recently discussed issue abut the City providing a guarantee loan program, if he is willing to sell his house to the City would they be interested in purchasing it? Cecil McConne11, Almira Drive, questioned how many lawsuits are currently filed against the City of Bremerton and what are the allegations being made in those lawsuits? And, what resolution is being asked for in these lawsuits? He believes the citizens may be financially impacted by such legal action and preferred to have some advance notice. In reference to a recent newspaper article that stated the City was considering guaranteeing the Bremerton Housing Authority purchasing land in the City and building homes for low income residents. He questioned where is the City getting the funding to guarantee any bad loads? He also wants to know the current status of the City's attempt ~o collect from other entities due to errors of misjudgments on the construction and operation of the wastewater treatment plant. Robert Ackerman, Arsenal Way, expressed concern that people watching Channel 12 cannot always hear what is being said by the City Council members or the public when they are speaking to the City Council. He asked that someone check into the matter to see if the audio portion of the City Council meetings could be raised. He thanked the City Council members and Mayor Horton for fixing the pothole on Cherry Avenue in front of Harrison Hospital. Lastly, he announced a non-profit Railroad Club meets the first Monday of each month at the Sheridan Park Recreation Center and is open to anyone interested in model railroading. Don Atkinson, Bremerton Main Street, announced a tribute entitled "A CLASS ACT" will be held on April 10, 3:00 P.M. at the Unity Church, located on Trenton Avenue, for Joseph Lavin, who served over a decade as Music Director and Conductor of the Bremerton Symphony and recently passed away. TAPE #1189 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 6, 1994 Page 7 of 16 Gordy Byrd, P.O. Box 930, accepted Councilman Dawkins' apology and reported he is still attending classes at Olympic College. He also reported that POWER Inc., is holding a meeting on April 7th, at the Ebenezer African Methodist Church at 902 Park Avenue. On Saturday, April 2, he attended a dance at KPHA - 920 Park Avenue, which was sponsored by several organizations. Bob Sauter stated over the past four weeks he has heard a lot of dissatisfaction with the way the City of Bremerton is run. He moved to Bremerton from a city that died following the same trend and path that Bremerton seems to be taking...not listening to the citizens of the city. He believes people have legitimate complaints and there are people in the community who won't be able to play their utility bill. He questioned in such cases, will the City turn their water off? He cautioned that when people can't pay their garbage bills there will be piles of garbage in the streets and if anyone thinks crime is bad now, it Will get worse. Ruth Reese announced the next meeting of C.R.A.B. on Thursday, April 7, 7:00 P.M., at the old KBRO Building on 11th and Park Avenue. Betty Bus11, High Avenue, stated when the City had a 3-commissioner form of government she told them what was going to happen to this City if they didn't do something about reducing the amount of red tape. She emphasized what she predicted has happened to the City and asked the City Council to do something to make things better. Mr. Ackerman referenced a news article that he recently read about how Bremerton was first settled and the influence the Bremer family had on this community. One of the things he learned from that article was how Mr. Bremer helped out people in time of need. Acting City Clerk Gil Johnson read into the record the following letter received from Dorothy Brewster, 2503 Fir Ave: I have been a resident of Bremerton since 1943, and have listened to many Council meeting discussions, but have never heard anything like the cry baby, "oh poor us" response that you gave last Wednesday, March 30, in replying to criticism from the public. What do you expect us to do, just pay the bills, and say nothing? That's what has gotten us into this mess! As Harry Truman said" If you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen". 6A - APPOINTMENT TO PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION, #AB94-066 There is a vacancy on the Parks & Recreation Commission. It is recommended that vacancy be filled by J. Michael Vaughn. Mayor Hotton briefly reviewed Mr. Vaughn previous involvement in the area of recreation and particularly youth programs noting the TAPE #1189 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 6, 1994 Page 8 of 16 strengths of experience he would bring to the Parks Commission. She urged Council's confirmation of Mr. Vaughn. Bob Sauter asked if Mr. Vaughn is a Bremerton resident. Fit~ stated yes. President #2011 M/S/C/U(Dawkins/Colvin) motion to confirm the appointment of J. Michael Vaughn to the Parks & Recreation Commission. J. Michael Vaughn, 2111 Brewster Place, thanked Mayor Horton and the City Council for the opportunity to serve and he is looking forward to working with the Director of the Parks and Recreation Department and fellow commissioners on the Parks Commission. Presi~ent Fit~ noted Mr. Vaughn indicated on his application that he would be willing to serve on many committees and she felt that spoke well for someone who desires to serve. 6B - OVERWATER PARK BIOLOGICAL MITIGATION MONITORING CONTRACT WITH FISH PRO, INC., #AB94-067 As part of the Overwater Park project, the beach immediately adjacent was rehabilitated as a condition of the permits to construct the Boardwalk. The permit also required the City to periodically monitor the biological activity on the beach. A consultant services agreement in the amount of $20,420 has been negotiated with Fish Pro, Inc. to determine the biological activity and document the activity to the permitting agencies. Additionally, a budget amendment is a~tached increasing the project budget by $9,300, from $14,00 to $23,300. This reflects the funds available for the 1994 mitigation monitoring. Randy Witt, City Engineer, stated the City has known about the need to carry out this work since the permit from the Corps was received and the City is obligated to do the work in years 2, 4, and five of the period and we are now at "year 2". FishPro assisted the City in negotiating the permit with the Corps of Engineers and is very familiar with the conditions stipulated.. They also have an interest in the success of the mitigation beach because of their involvement in its design. He believes the contract reflects a fair and reasonable price for the services to be provided. Funds for this project are held in an Escrow Account-that is controlled by the Corps and as monitoring work is carried out and done to their satisfaction funds will be released. The budget adjustment reflects an error or miss communication on the City's partwhen the budget was approved in that of the $70,000 in the account they divided into five years instead of allocating years 2, 4, and 5. There is no change in project cost, but does reflect the reality of the work. TAPE #1189 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 6, 1994 Page 9 of 16 Mr. Colvin questioned the actual services to be given under the terms of the contract. Mr. Witt stated FishPro will survey the beach area and then through a unique device will sample the water in that area to determine if the life form of epibenthics are living and making that habitat their home. Following that, FishPro will prepare a report to the Corps Of Engineers and funds are included to cover the cost of their meeting with the Corps, if appropriate. Mr. Colvin questioned how long would that relationship continue? Mr. Witt explained it would be over the life of the permit, which is five years, but the monitoring work will be done in years 2, 4 and 5 of the permit. Mr. Overson questioned if he was correct in that the contract identifies an single annual report provided August 17 Mr. Witt stated the permit requires that sampling be done in April and the report will be submitted soon after that. Included in that are some cross sections that the City undertakes, which is reported on annually. Mr. Overson stated he did not fully understand if the required density of epibenthic life is met before year 5 is the City released from further study or must it .be guaranteed the following year? Mr. Witt stated that would be up to the Corps of Engineers and what they would consider how well the City is meeting the requirement. If the City is clearly exceeding the required amount, he expected they would ask to be released from monitoring on year-5. Mr. Ackerman questioned why the boardwalk project is costing the City more money? Mr. Witt explained this contract is not costing the City any "new" money...funds have already been set aside in an Escrow Account. Virginia Rouse questioned what would happen if they found that no life forms were living in that habitat? Mr. Witt stated if it is determined that the "beach" is not successful in attracting and growing life forms, he was not sure what the City would do. In the short term, the City still has years 4 and 5 to make it successful. If the whole project is a failure at all, he expected the City would have to go back to the Corps and renegotiate. Mr. Sauter questioned if this plan entailed transplanting the marine life from one beach to another? Mr. Witt stated no, the Corps Of Engineers is focusing on epibenthics moving in from surrounding areas. The standard they are measuring by is the beach area just north of the constructed mitigation beach. Clams and starfish have already been observed in the subject area and with that they are hopeful other life forms will move in. Gordy Byrd questioned if the mitigation beach is not successful, will the City have to tear up the boardwalk? Mr. Witt stated he did not think that was something the City would consider and would TAPE #1189 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 6, 1994 Page 10 of 16 look for other solutions. The Corps has inspected the beach area since completion of beach construction and have been impressed with the marine life that can be seen at that location. Mr. Law emphasized for the public's benefit that the City Council is not just "rubber stamping" approval on Agenda item. Issues are brought to the Council committees where they are discussed at length and many questions raised. Mr. Overson stated the Council Fiscal and Budget Committee thoroughly reviewed the cost of this contract, which is a relatively short activity period and the cost appears to be steep. However, when you evaluate that based on the professionalism of FishPro and the extensive requirements of what has to be done and their rapport with the other agencies, is a part of what we are getting for what we pay. Mr. ackerman asked why do we have a City Council meeting when the Council members have already made their decision at a previous committee meeting? President Fits explained the City Council does not come out in a City Council meeting blind on issues, but they have had an opportunity to study issues prior to being placed on the Agenda. Mr. Winters noted both of the Council committee meetings are open to the public. Mr. Overson stressed the Council committee meetings are informational meetings with no formal action taken except to request additional information to answer questions raised and to review the documentation to insure that it is in line with the requirements. #2939 MM/S/C/U(Huff-Menees/Colvin) to authorize and direct the Mayor to execute the attached agreement with Fish Pro, Inc. in the amount of $20,420 for the biological monitoring of the Overwater Park mitigation beach, and to approve the budget amendment increasing the project budget by $9,300 to $23,200. 7A - ORDINANCE NO. 4454 (SECOND READING) AMENDING TITLE 15 TO PROVIDE STORMWATER REGULATION AND RATE STRUCTURE, #AB94-060 Cecil MoConne11, Almira Drive, asked the following questions: (1) How can a service charge be assessed and the service is not being provided? (2) Mow are apartments charged for the stormwater fee, by the lot or by individual units? (3) Why is a 7,500 ft. lot charged the same stormwater fee as a 2,200 ft. lot? After watching discussion.on the stormwater issue, evidently stormwater separation is not taking place at this time and is something that he and his City are not receiving. If the City can charge a fee for stormwater per lot, he suggested they consider that same fee assessment for the sewer charge because a lot of people are hurting over the cost of sewer service. President Fits explained commercial areas will be charged by their imperious surfaces. Mr- McConne11 questioned why will it take until December of this year to determine the stormwater fee for commercial accounts? TAPE #1190 TAPE #1190 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 6, 1994 Page 11 of 16 Eddy Chu, Director of Public Works and Utilities, reminded everyone that each lot in the City is being charged a stormwater fee whether or not they are hooked up to a stormwater drain. What is being proposed is a Stormwater Management program that would provide a benefit to all citizens of Bremerton. At this point, everyone is being assessed the same... $4.00/per month/per lot/per account. If someone is not hooked up to City sewer or water, that account will be generated and collection of the stormwater fee will be effective February 1, 1994. As to the fact that apartment units or commercial units have larger lots compared to single family residential lots, yes, they are currently assessed at the same rate, however, a study is currently underway to develop a cost of service study. He acknowledge there is a lot of information in the current tax lot, however, in order to come up with the per unit basis, we have to develop an overall program cost indicating what we have as a system as it stands and what we need to develop in a long term capital improvement program for the Stormwater Program. Until the total cost is developed, the City would not have a clear definition as to what the unit cost might be. President Fits asked Mr. Chu to identify the start up cost to implement this program. Mr. Chu stated currently the City does not have a stormwater program, therefore, there is no stormwater crew and that function has been placed under the Street Department as a Street function. Neither the Street Department nor the Wastewater Fund is funded to take on that responsibility. In the past, actions taken to address stormwater problems were done as crisis management rather than a preventative maintenance program. The City must increase labor staffing in order to take care of stormwater problems as they happen. Also, the Capital Improvement Program has been studied and an overall system map developed. An important aspect of the Stormwater Management program is stormwater separation, which is currently taxing the Wastewater Fund. In order to keep the Utility rates as low as possible, this portion of the fund will contribute to the dedicated storm related projects. President Fits emphasized the fact that every person in the City will be charged the stormwater fee whether or not they have sewer service because water comes off of property and runs into the streets. Mr. Colvin stated since the City has not previously 'had a Stormwater Management program why is it necessary now? Mr. Chu explained the State Department of Ecology is mandating such a program be enacted by July 1, 1994. Mr. Colvinquestioned if there were any consequences if the City did not comply? Mr. Chu stated he did not believe the City had any choice but to comply with the State regulations. Rob Sauter, Bremerton Resident, asked when will the stormwater plan be effective by providing all of the stormwater drains? At his age, he was concerned that he would not be alive to see the program TAPE #1190 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 6, 1994 Page 12 of 16 fully implemented. The closest water drain to his residence is over 1/8th of a mile away. Many elder residents will be paying for something that hasn't benefitted them personally. Mr. Chu stated the Stormwater Plan is new to the City, however, the problems with stormwater has always been a concern and carried through a combined sewer system. What is being initiated is a stormwater and sanitary sewer separation program and the funding source for that program. The first project under this program is the Warren Avenue Basin project and construction will start summer of 1994. As a part of a Master Plan, seventeen major basins have been identified and a plan and schedule have been designed to complete those projects by the year 2011. The $4.00 stormwater fee is the start of the funding source to undertake the identified projects. The Master Plan will be completed by the third quarter of this year and that plan will be updated annually along with the Water Comprehensive Plan and Wastewater Comprehensive Plan. Robert Ackerman related the impact of the increased sewer rates on several members of his family and stressed the fact that it will be very difficult for them to pay the high cost of sewer/water services. He questioned where will people get the money to pay their Utility bills? Elizabeth Bue11, High Avenue, stated the location of her property is such that she has no stormwater runoff and questioned if she would be charged the stormwater fee anyway? Mr. Chu stated the stormwater fee is not direct hookup fees or direct benefit if lots do have direct hookup to the storm/sewer system. He stressed what is being implemented at this time is a Stormwater Management Plan that will control water runoff from higher elevations and handling pollutants in the water runoff. Carlos MontgomexT, City Resident, questioned if he was correct in his understanding that the 2,500 sq. ft. charge will be different than the $4.00 charge currently being collected, but it would exclude the single family residence and individual lots? Mr. Chu explained there are two different charges as identified on page S0 of the Agenda Packet, is talking about General Facility Fees (GFF), that fee is based on such things as the infrastructure that is to be built, but in this case he has alluded to the single family/two unit duplex as no charge for GFF. The 2,500 sq. ft. is used statistically in finding out what constituted a typical impervious area and the consultants concluded that 2,500 sq. ft. is the number they use as a representative number of a typical house. If someone has a commercial parking lot or large apartment complex, then they measure the size of impervious area, divide it by 2,500 sq. ft., and that will determine how many ISUs and then we'll have a unit price per ISU to calculate the monthly charges. Mr. Montgomery stated several years ago when the issue of stormwater management TAPE #1190 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 6, 1994 Page 13 of 16 was discussed it was stated that all homeowners roofs, driveways and sidewalks would be measured to determine their charge for stormwater management. He questioned if the charge would be calculated in that manner? Mr. Chu stated not for single family residences. They are excluding the measurement for the single family unit and will be measuring only commercial areas and multi- family units. Mr. Montgomer7 asked if the $4.00/per month charge would ever increase? Mr. Chu explained the consultants recommended the $4.00 per month current stormwater charge, and those rates like any other rates will be reviewed in the future. Harvey Cravits questioned if all Council members live in the City and are hooked up to the sewer system? He believes the citizens of Bremerton are being penalized for mistakes or misjudgments made by others. He is unemployed, a disabled veteran and currently looking for work. He did not know how he could pay the increased sewer/water costs. His family has to make the decision whether or not they buy food or pay their utility bills. President Fits urged Mr. Cravits to contact the Utility Department to see if he qualifies for the reduced low-income disabled rate. She restated that two Council members' residents are not hooked up to sewer and are serviced by septic systems, but they will be charged the $4.00/per month fee. Mr. Cravits stated it concerned him that Council members not hooked up to the sewer voted in a'30% increase for sewer service, which would not affect them. President Fits pointed out she owns a business in Bremerton that is hooked up to the sewer service and is greatly affected by the increased sewer service charge. Mr. Cravits questioned why would someone vote in a cost that would affect them? President Fits emphasized the City must meet state mandates. The City Council has studied this issue at great length and must be approved to meet those mandates. Cravits felt the City Council had voted something in without the consent of the people. President Fits pointed out the City Council held several public hearings starting in November of 1993, and many people attending this meeting were also in attendance at those meetings. Mr. Overson stated what is being talked about is being in a civilized country - if people don't want to pay any fees and have zero cost of living for sewers and water service, then maybe they should go to a countrywhere they have those kinds of low standards of living. What we are doing here is producing a higher standard of living and that costs money. Many people don't use the services of the Police Department or the Fire Department, but everyone still pays taxes to provide for those services. And not everyone uses schools, but they still pay taxes that provide for schools - that is part of living in a civilized country. Mr. Cravits stated it will get to the point where people get tired of that "civilized" country if it is constantly impacting them in a negative way. It TAPE #1190 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 6, 1994 Page 14 of 16 is getting to the point where they have to reduce their standard of living to pay City employee salaries, etc., and questioned why did he have to give up his standard of living for that? President Fitz pointed out Council members are paid $500.00 per month for a 40 hour week. Being a Council member is a service to the community and the salary they receive is not even an issue. She understands the fact that the residents are not happy about the increase in cost of service and having to make those kinds of decisions is the least liked part of the job. Mr. Cravits asked why did the Council "cave in" on settlement of the West Hills Association lawsuit and not fight it out in court? President Pits stated the City Council did not let things slide and offered to talk to him about the lawsuit, which does not have anything to do with this issue, at a later time. Janet Thompson, east Bremerton resident, stated she understands Council has a hard' job. She listened to the previous Council meeting and was upset to hear several Council members whispering loudly while Brian Mueller was speaking. The public has the right to complain and state their arguments. She has noticed that contractors building new developments must provide stormwater runoff control and questioned if similar type control will be required by businesses and residents along the waterfront? Mr. Chu stated stormwater is being treated differently than wastewater and the State is not asking the City to catch all stormwater runoff. The Stormwater Plan addresses source control, especially in the area of contaminates and doing something to separate them from the water prior to water being discharged into the sound. Mrs, Thompson stated she and her husband are both disabled, and only able to work parttime bringing in an income of $1,200/month gross, with a house payment of almost $500.00 per month. She supported the idea of having utility costs on a "sliding scale" for people on low incomes. She does notqualify for the City's reduced rates and many residents in her similar situation are really hurting financially as a result of the utility rate increases. President Fitz stated we, as a Council, have heard that many people in the City cannot afford the rates and at some point she should like to address that issue in a Study Session to develop criteria, in steps, that would address that issue. Mr. ackerman requested the City Council to look into raising the income level for low-income disabled reduced utility rates and to not vote on this issue until they have developed something that will benefit the public. Mr. Chu emphasized the issue before Council at this time is not rates, but an ordinance to enact a stormwater Program for City-wide usage. Zack Thompson, east Bremerton resident, asked what type of education or training did City Council members need to be elected #1662 TAPE #1190 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 6, 1994 Page 16 of 16 would stand up and start writing to their Congressmen, State Representatives and voicing their opinion at that level instead of complaining down at the minority level where the City's hands are tied by the State and Federal mandates, more could be done. Mr. 8auter stated he agrees with Mr. Montgomery that the City is being mandated per the RCW. However, in the future if mandates comes down from the State or Federal government, he suggested publishing that information so that the public can see for themselves what is being demanded of the City. President Fitz stated Mr. Sauter had an excellent suggestion. Mr. Sauter also supported looking at the structure of charges for the disabled and the elderly. He is disabled, but can afford to pay the higher sewer rates. He is hearing from other elderly people that they are considering moving out of the City due to not being able to afford the cost of City utility services. President Fitz stated unfortunately people planning to move out of the City will be facing the same kind of problems in the County. Counties are also required to adopt a Stormwater Management Program and they too have garbage service and those costs of collection are going up. Mr. Aokerman pointed out Kitsap County is reconsidering their newly proposed increased sewer rates after taking public testimony. M/S/C/U(Law/Winters) to pass Ordinance No. 4454 on second reading, segregating operations of the City utilities stormwater system from the wastewater system, establishing best management practices for source control and a rate structure for stormwater, and amending Title 15 of the Bremerton Municipal Code. With no further business meeting adjourned at 8:10 P.M.. E City of Bremerton KLM/EF/me cc: KATHLEEN L. City Clerk President Normal Distribution File/Vault TAPE #1190 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes April 6, 1994 Page 15 of 16 to the City Council? President Fit: explained there are no such requirements. A registered voter living in a Council district that has a position up for election can run for a position by signing up at the Kitsap County Court House during the last week of July. Mr. Thompson stated he believed Council members should be required to study and pass something before they vote on important issues like the wastewater issue or they should have some engineering training. President Fits explained the Council had studied the issue for months and months. When technical issues are brought before Council input is given by the City's engineering staff, financial staff, consultants, etc. Decisions on issues are not made lightly. Mr. Thompson stated he was asking the Council if they personally study issues. President Fits stated yes. Mr. Thompson stated he is a full time college student and is unable to afford the increased utility rates. Mr. Ackerman disagreed with an earlier statement that this issue had nothing to do with the setting of rates. At the previous Council meeting there was no reduced stormwater rate for low-income seniors and low-income disabled, however, such a rate is being proposed at this time. It was his feeling that the elected City Council members were against the residents of Bremerton by continuing to set higher utility rates. Due to being disabled, he is unable to work and increase his income. Mr. Law explained the City has tried to be as fair as possible in spreading the expense around in order to pay for the cost of sewer/water treatment programs and services. Mr. ackerman stated the City is charging people that can't afford to pay and he was worried that if they don't pay their bills that their water will be shut off and liens p~aced against their property. Mr.'Law pointed out three of the nine City Council members are on fixed incomes. President Fits restated the City will look into adjustments for those disabled and possible low-income senior, however, that decision cannot be made at this time. Mr. Thompson asked if a proposal could be written on cost of utility services based on income? President Fits indicated she had just stated they would look into the rate structure. She could not make any commitment or promise at this point that there will be any change in the current rate structure. Mr. Colvin suggested that Mr. Thompson submit his proposal for such a program. Mr. MontgomezTasked what is the result if the City does nothing on the storm/sewer program and its being mandated by the federal government? President Fits stated the City could have its license to run the sewer treatment plant taken away. Mr. Mont~omez7 emphasized the City Council members did not cause the problem, they are just the end result of it. Prior administrations have caused more of the problems experienced today. If the American people