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HomeMy WebLinkAbout10/09/91TAPE #959 UNAPPROVED DRAFT CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OCT: 9 1991 0026 #0043 OCTOBER 9, 1991 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, October 9, 1991, at 5:30 p.m., with President Lynn Horton presiding. Council members present: Lon Overson, Wayne Estes, Hank Waibel, Spencer Horning, C. R. ,,Tiny"Collins, Morrie Dawkins, A1 Colvin and Russ Johnson. Also present were Acting City Attorney Leila Mills and City Clerk Kathleen L. McCluskey. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance led by Council President Horton and Invocation given by Councilman A1 Colvin. President Hotton announced Council will hold a Study Session to discuss the "Sewer Comprehensive Plan" immediately following the Council meeting. CONSENT AGENDA A. Minutes Of Meeting - September 25, 1991, #AB91-256 M/S/C/U(Waibel/Dawkins) presented. to approve Consent Agenda as CLAIMS/WARRANT REGISTERS Vouchers audited and certified by the auditing officer as required by RCW 42.24,080, and those expense reimbursement claims certified as ~equired 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 October 9, 1991, the Council does approve for payment those vouchers included and further described as follows: 137580 through 137764 in the total amount of $271,152.45 and Regular Payroll for the period ending September 30, 1991, in the total amount of $425,502.43. COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS Mr. Overson wished everyone a "happy Columbus Day". Mr. Estes announced the "childish wonder" was at it again distributing a flyer using his name in the body of the printed text. He emphasized that Sun reporter Jack Swanson was not correct in his recent article about the City Council wanting more unity between the Council and Police Department. He stressed the fact that this Council has no problem supporting TAPE #959 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes October 9, 1991 Page 2 of 10 the Police Department, and if there is any dispute that information should be brought to Mayor Mentor. Mr. Homing congratulated Ron McAffee, who was recently named the new Director of CenCom. Mr. McAffee had served as Assistant Director for one year. Mr. Horning attended the Executive Planning Council meeting this date and significant discussion was given to 1992 budgets for Cencom and the Board of Health. Kitsap Transit has made a decision to go forward to look outside for bidders for the Paratransit contract. He, as a Transit Board member, supports that action. Mr. Waibel announced, on the light side, Mariners were over 500, Seahawks are at 500 and the Bremerton High School Football Team won their last game. Mr. Johnson stated it was good to be back in the Pacific Northwest after being gone for a few weeks. He was pleased to view the work of the Baptist youth group, who assisted in the planting of trees and shrubs at the intersection of SR-3 and Kitsap Way as a part of their "Baptist Youth Rally" last weekend. As an alumni of the University of Iowa, he was pleased to be back in that area when the Washington Huskies stomped all over the University of Nebraska. In reference to housing in the downtown area, he believed the Council, City staff and Mayors have been working to improve the image of Bremerton and particularly the downtown area and to provide affordable housing where possible. However, in the long-term they want to make sure not to let downtown Bremerton end up still having the reputation of attracting low income people off the ferry from Seattle. Bremerton is in one of the most beautiful spots in the world and if developed properly the City should do OK. He was also aware there is another proposal pending for a "halfway house" for run aways from Seattle and felt that was not the type of thing desired in downtown Bremerton. He cautioned against encouraging more low-income housing in the downtown area and the possibility of Bremerton not developing a strong enough tax base to support such a situation. The City is already being assessed very high costs for CenCom services and Health Department services, which reflects the affect of Bremerton having such a high percentage of people in need. Mr. Colvin reported he attended George Allen's 80th birthday celebration this past weekend; and he wished him many more years of a good life and health. During a discussion with Port Commissioner Fred Schoneman, Mr. Colvin congratulated the Port Commission on their improvements on the waterfront. He hoped Mayor Mentor would give an update on the City's TAPE #959 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes October 9, 1991 Page 3 of 10 waterfront project. Mr. Colvin and his wife hosted 4 teens over the weekend, who participated in the Baptist Youth Rally. He appreciated the Sylvan Way Baptist Church's sponsorship of such a major undertaking. He announced a Town Meeting is scheduled for October 29, 7:30 P.M., in the Council Chambers, which will provide a panel discussion of Proposition 1, Proposition 2, and the current form of government. This program will be televised over Cable Access Channel 29. He thanked all of the individuals who are helping publicize this program and hoped for a good attendance at this meeting. Mr. Dawkins reported a good time was had by all at the 10th Annual Meeting Of the Kitsap/Bremerton Old Timers Association, which was held at the Bayview Inn. Mr. Collins reported he would be attending Puget Sound Air Pollution Control Agency meeting on Thursday and Friday of this week. Mrs. Horton reported she attended the Kitsap Regional Council meeting this date. At that meeting, they received a report from the Department Of Health on the hazard of lead paint and adverse affect it has on children. The State has lowered the minimum standards for lead poisoning and she cautioned everyone living in older homes to be aware of peeling paint, especially in areas where there are children. She emphasized lead poisoning can cause damage that is irreparable to children or pregnant women. They also received a briefing from Emergency Management on community preparedness for Kitsap County in case of a major catastrophe, such as an earthquake, flood, major fire, etc. This plan was broken down into several phases: neighborhood preparedness, business preparedness, etc. Emergency Management will be offering inspections of businesses, at no cost, evaluating how those businesses may weather a catastrophe. If there is a major earthquake or some other type of catastrophe, there will be the need for businesses to be in operation and the only way to do this is to be prepared in the event of such a crisis. Neighborhoods and schools will also be offered preparedness programs. PUBLIC RECOGNITION Mayor Louis Mentor emphasized the importance of people attending and/or viewing, on Channel 29, the Town Meeting planned for October 29, in order to become educated on the issues being presented on the November ballot. He reported the Baptist Youth Rally activities included cleaning of Stephenson Canyon in east Bremerton and along Sinclair Inlet waterfront. He announced Councilman Morrie Dawkins was one of ! TAPE #959 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes October 9, 1991 Page 4 of 10 the 15 "Old Timers" who were inducted in the Baseball Hall Of Fame. Progress on the waterfront project - test pile driving has been completed and it is anticipated the supply of pilings will be delivered very soon. Betti Briggs, Housing Coordinator For Emergency Housing Shelter/Community Action Program (KCAP), spoke in reference to a proposed low-income housing project for the "Elks" building. She reported KCAP provides mens' single housing and all of these individuals are employed, however, they cannot find an affordable place to live on their own. They are not derelict, homeless men. As Bremerton develops, there will be a continued need for such individuals to support the anticipated growth. She cited the high cost of entering into a rental agreement, which could amount to as high as $1,000 to get into a $300 per month apartment, including security deposits, first and last months rent, etc. She questioned what would happen to people, such as the single men, who cannot afford inflated rental costs. She assured Council that Mr. Johnson's reference to a "halfway house for youth" was not what was being proposed. Vivian Bodle, President Kitsap County Realtors' Association, complimented council on opening the meeting with the Pledge Of Allegiance and prayer and noted it reminds us of our rights as Americans and of our blessings. She read a letter into thel record that acknowledged the Board of Realtors' sensitivity to the needs of low income citizens. Through out the nation their members have participated in and supported efforts to create basic, secure, affordable housing for individuals and families. And, that low income citizens should not be considered "undesirables". In years past, it was common to have boarding houses available for individuals who were unable to or did not desire to rent apartments or homes. The reality of boarding houses has gone away and few people rent out rooms, however, the need for this type of housing is still great. Development of low-income housing solves two problems: (1) it gives new life and a worthwhile purpose to those buildings being renovated; (2) helps the segment of society who needs it the most. The Kitsap County Board Of Realtors commend Mr. Twomey for his effort to provide affordable low income housing for our low income residents. Chuck Laubach, Candidate for Council District #4, stated he was glad to see development of the Town Meeting scheduled for October 29. He felt it was important for the citizens of Bremerton to be well informed on the issues that could greatly affect the City. In reference to the "Elks" building project, he noted he had not reviewed the entire proposal, however, he TAPE #959 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes October 9, 1991 Page 5 of 10 hoped the City would pay attention to the incomes of people and housing availability for those different levels. If older buildings are not utilized for such a project, then maybe planning needs to be done to come up with a smaller square footage new facility in order to fulfill the need. Del Knauss, Olympic Avenue, stated he attended the Superior Court hearings concerning Olympic College's attempt to take over Roosevelt Field through condemnation. During those hearings, there was discussion as to whether or not Olympic College had State funds to acquire Roosevelt Field. He contacted Senator Craswell and requested a copy of the Capital Budget for Community Colleges, which reappropriated in 1991, and states as follows: "The reappropriation in this subsection is provided solely for minor repairs, fixtures and improvements to State buildings and facilities and shall not be used for computer equipment, land acquisition, or for other expenses that normally would be funded from the State operating budget". Mr. Knauss stressed if the Capital Budget did not allow the funding to be used for land acquisition why was Bremerton having to defend Roosevelt Field in court against Olympic College's condemnation attempt? In light of this information, he hoped one member of the City Council would step forward and propose a Resolution that would state: "We, the City Council members of Bremerton, request that our State Legislative Representatives amend the State Budget and State Law to mandate any funds appropriated to Washington Community Colleges cannot be used for acquisition of other local governments parks property and that the State will abide by local governments ordinances governing parks property and that the State will abide by local governments Comprehensive Plans. Roy McInnis, 2711 Maple Street, stated he was pleased over progress being made by Mr. Burley in cleaning up his property. He thanked the City Council and Mayor for taking a strong stand over mandating that this property be cleaned up or the City would come in and do the job. Don Atkinson, Bremerton Main Street Association, reminded everyone that this Sunday is "Apple Day" at the Farmers' Market. Three apple presses will be available for pressing pre-cleaned apples, with clean containers being provided by those bringing the apples. Tim Baker, President of the West Sound Cycling Club and a member of the Mayor's Advisory Council, thanked Mayor Mentor and the Council for recognizing cycling as an alternative means of transportation and the installation of bicycle racks TAPE #959 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes October 9, 1991 Page 6 of 10 in the downtown area. Those commuting on bikes appreciate having a safe place to park and lock them up. The Advisory Council will be recommending two or three additional locations for installation of additional racks. Don Larson, 135 Rainier Avenue, reported on the waterfront clean up of Sinclair Inlet this past weekend. He acknowledged the assistance in this clean up by a large group of teens participating in the Baptist Youth Rally. He thanked the community volunteers who helped coordinate the activities for the youth and local restaurants and beverage distributors who provided pizza and soft drinks for the volunteers. He received a letter from Duane Bernstein, Secretary Of Transportation, in which he considered the tree planting project at the intersection of SR-3 and Kitsap Way a real win- win situation. And, Mr. Bernstein noted the Transportation Department would like to consider similar projects in the future. Mr. Larson suggested Earth Day next spring would be a good time to coordinate such a project. Underwater park - the Parks Commission had reviewed the idea but had not given out their opinion of such a proposal. He stressed the fact that if someone had an accident at an underwater park site, the liability did not shift to the municipality. Divers are typically responsible for themselves and the City of Edmonds, who have an underwater park located very near, had never been sued on an issue relating to that underwater park. Port Of Bremerton Commissioner Fred Schoneman provided Mr. Larson with a copy of an article dated September 1, 1976, proposing an elevated walkway from the Ferry Terminal to Olympic College. He announced an Aquatic Habitat Enhancement conference is scheduled in Los Angeles, that concerns artificial reefs. Mayor Mentor wrote a letter of invitation to that group to consider holding their future conference in Bremerton. 6A - SOLE SOURCE PURCHASE - FAIRWAY AERATOR FOR GOLD MOUNTAIN GOLF COURSE, #AB91-257 The Parks Department Golf Course capital budget included a fairway aerator. The Golf Course Grounds Superintendent has evaluated equipment suitable for the purpose and recommends a Toro Fairway Aerator. This particular equipment is available from only one dealership in the northwest at a cost of $22,000. The other equipment evaluated requires purchase of a Cushman at an additional cost of $10,000. The equipment requested is driven by a tractor currently in use at the Golf Course. Procedurally "sole source" may apply to conditions of geography wherein exclusive distributorship is granted by the manufacturer and may include multi-state region. #1233 TAPE #959 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes October 9, 1991 Page 7 of 10 Public comment - none. Mr. Estes questioned if this piece of equipment was a "hole plugger"? Vicki Vanneman, Director Of Parks and Recreation, introduced' John Alexander, Grounds Keeper, who briefly explained the purpose of the equipment. Mr. Overson commended Mr. Alexander on his excellent letter of explanation included in the Council Agenda packet. He pointed out this item was included in the 1991 budget. M/S/C/U(Dawkins/Colvin) approve contract to purchase one (1) Toro Fairway Aerator as to specifications and as sole source be awarded to Western Equipment in the amount of $22,000, plus sales tax. 6B - GRANT AUTHORIZATION TO 8UBMIT GRANT APPLICATION TO FUND DARE PROGRAMAT BREMERTON HIGH SCHOOL, #AB91-258 The Department of Community Development is accepting request for proposals for implementation of drug education programs in public schools. The money would allow a Police Officer to be placed at Bremerton High School and implement the DARE program. Council authorization is required for grant submittal. Connie Devaney, Grants Writer, explained this item included a Letter of Agreement between the City of Bremerton and Bremerton School District, which states the Bremerton School District and the City will split the cost of the cash match for this proposal. Public comment - none. Mr. Johnson questioned if the City received this grant would Council be assured this would result in an additional Police officer would be placed in the school? Ms. Devaney stated yes, that was her understanding. These Federal funds cannot be used to supplant positions that the City currently has - it must be a new position. Mr. Collins commented on the beginning of the DARE Program starting in the 5th Grade and now the need has grown to continue to assist the kids that started in the 5th Grade and who are now in High School. He is very much in favor of continuing the DARE program all the way through as originally intended. Mr. Overson pointed out if Council approves this item it would mean Council would pre-suppose part of the 1992 budget, which i TAPE #959 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes October 9, 1991 Page 8 of 10 is anticipated to be a challenge budget. He cautioned to please enter into such a program with your "eyes open" knowing that the City must provide matching funds. Mr. Hornin~ stated he personally supports this proposal and will support the request. However, he agreed with Mr. Overson that the 1992 budget will be the most difficult budget Council has had to deal with. Mr. Colvin questioned the City's portion of the matching funds? Mr. Overson explained it would require approximately $6,800.00. He pointed out Council's 1992 Goals and Objectives identified Police and safety services as high priorities. President Morton questioned when will the grant be awarded? Ms. Devanev stated the award of this grant should be about mid November. President Morton stated since this last year the City had some difficulty getting through several "hires", she hoped action would be taken immediately to speed up the hiring of personnel to fill this position. Ms. DevaneV stated she believed that was Chief McNeal's intention. #1337 M/S/C/U(Collins/Estes) to approve grant submittal. 6C - AUTHORIZATION TO SIGN LOCAL DEVELOPMENT MATCHING FUND GRANT AWARD WHICH WILL BE USED TO DESIGN TRAFFIC CIRCULATION PLAN FOR THE CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT, #AB91-259 Council approved.submittal of this grant application, funds have been awarded. Council authorization is required for signature of contract. Connie Devaney, Grants Writer, stated this is a proposal that Council authorized submittal about four weeks ago. It is a proposal to develop a plan for traffic flow in the central business district, both pedestrian and auto. The amount of the grant is in the amount of $25,000. Public comment - none. Mr. Johnson questioned the identification of $1,000 in the grant funding for travel? Ms. DevaneV stated the City will be providing $1,000 cash match on this proposal, which will cover transportation costs for City/consultant staff as it relates to developing the subject plan. Mr. Oversonquestioned what will the end product be, a plan or a selection of options? Ms. Devanev stated the product will be a plan stating how downtown traffic should flow, which will then be approved by Council. She noted a set of options will #1505 #1733 TAPE #959 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes October 9, 1991 Page 9 of 10 be provided prior to adoption of the final plan and will include public hearings. She noted the term of the project ends May 1993. President Morton questioned if Ms. Devaney thought it would take 11/2 years to complete this study? Ms. DevaneV stated that was a question that should be answered by the City Engineer, however, the way the May 1993 deadline was established was to use the end of the granting period as the deadline. The work program can be at whatever priority the Mayor and Council establish. Mr. Colvinquestioned how soon would this project get started? Mr. Devaney stated it is suppose to start in March 1992, and this was based on the Engineer's work schedule. M/S/C/U(Waibel/Collins) approve authorization to sign grant Councilman Waibel left the Council Chambers. 7A - ORDINANCE #4344 (SECOND READING) AMENDING BMC 2.62.020 MUNICIPAL COURT JUDGE TERM, #AB91-253 Public comment - none. Mr. Johnson questioned if this action is legal? Leila Mills, Acting City Attorney, stated yes, this would be bringing the City's Municipal Judge's Term in line with State requirements. M/S/C/U(Collins/Estes) to pass Ordinance #4344, on second reading, amending the term of Municipal Court Judge and amending Bremerton Municipal Code 2.62,020. Councilman Waibel returned to Council chambers at 6:37 p.m. 7B - ORDINANCE #4345 (SECOND READING) SETTING SALARY AND BENEFITS FOR MUNICIPAL COURT JUDGE EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 1992, #AB91-254 Public comment - none. Mr. Johnson questioned the cost of the benefit package? Mayor Louis Mentor stated he did not have that specific information, however, this proposal would provide 4% deferred compensation plan, set vacation and sick leave in line with what the other managers are receiving and establish cost of living increases in stead of a flat salary. Mr. Johnson questioned if it was intended that the next term would be filled by someone at 90% of the mean, as is done for other manager positions? Mayor Mentor stated he would negotiate a salary and come back to Council for their approval. 1943 M/S/C/U(Waibel/Horning) pass Ordinance #4345, on second TAPE #959 City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes October 9, 1991 Page 10 of 10 reading, setting the Municipal Court Judge's salary and benefits. With no further business meeting adjourned at 6:43 p.m. ~j~TE~LUSKE~Y~lty Clerk Council President City of Bremerton KLM/LH/me cc: Normal Distribution File/Vault