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DIGITAL RECORDING ! AA'ROVED
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
September 21,2005
The weekly meeting of the City Council of the City of Bremerton was called to order in the City
Council Chambers, 345 6th Street, Bremerton, Washington, Wednesday, September 21, 2005,
at 5:30 P.M., with Council President Daren Nygren presiding. Council members present were
Mike Short, Will Maupin, Dianne Robinson, Mike Shepherd, Wendy Priest, Cecil McConnell,
and Brad Gehring. Council Member Carol Arends was absent. Also present were City Attorney
Roger Lubovich; City Clerk Paula Johnston; and Legislative Assistant Lori Smith.
The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance led by Council Member Cecil McConnell,
followed by the invocation provided by Council Member Dianne Robinson.
President Nvaren made the following announcements:
1. A Pre-Council session was held in the Council Conference Room to discuss updates to the
meeting agenda; which included a 15-minute Executive Session to discuss "Pending
Litigation" per R.C.W. 42.30.110(1 )(i); and
2. Item 7 A under GENERAL BUSINESS was pulled from the agenda tonight.
MAYOR'S REPORT Mayor Bozeman...
. Was pleased to see the completion of "The Frank Chopp Place", formerly Chester Manor;
. Acknowledged the work ahead for the Council, listing several upcoming items they will need
to make decisions on including the proposed consolidation of the Bremerton Housing
Authority and the Kitsap County Consolidation Housing Authority; the relocation of Municipal
Court; sale of the Tracy ton Watershed property; acceptance of the Chevron property for
expanding Evergreen Rotary Park; and the FY2006 Budget by the end of December; and
. Announced that Ken Mickelsen will soon begin a tree-thinning project for Lions Park.
PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS
Debora Woodard, NAACP, Bremerton Branch, announced several upcoming events including
the "Community Service Healthcare Event" this Saturday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the
Norm Dicks Center; a 5-week "Back to School, Stay in School" program and "Earn to Learn"
program beginning on Saturday, October 1 from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM at the West Sound Skill
Center; and the "Reach for Success Parent's Fair" on Thursday, October 13 from 5:30 to 8:30
PM at the Bremerton High School Auditorium.
President Nvaren proclaimed the Month of September 2005 as "PTA Membership Month";
and proclaimed October 12,2005 as "Walk Across Washington Day".
CONSENT AGENDA
A. Checks 302636 through 302829; EFT-8579 through EFT-8587for the period ending
September 21, 2005 in the amount of $659,066.70 (#AB05-210)
B. Minutes of Meeting - September 7,2005 (#AB05-211)
C. Minutes of Meeting - September 14,2005 (#AB05-212)
D. Contract Amendment with DURA COATINGS, INC. for Painting Services for the Louis
Mentor Boardwalk (#AB05-213)
E. Rental Agreement with Peter Voight III for Kitsap Lake House (#AB05-214)
F. Interlocal Agreement with Kitsap County for Funding Assistance related to the
Construction of the Skatepark (#AB05-215)
G. PC Replacement Program through Washington State WSCA Contract (#AB05-216)
City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes
September 21,2005
Page 2 of 6
H. Interlocal Purchasing Agreement with ISLAND COUNTY FIRE DISTRICT 1 (#AB05-217)
I. Professional Services Agreement with DAVID SMITH & ASSOCIATION?, INC. for Acquisition
of Orthophotography and Aerial Mapping Services (#AB05-218)
J. Professional Services Agreement with WILLIS OF SEATTLE, INC. for l'nsurance Broker
Services Contract (#AB05-219)
There were no comments from the public.
5:42:30 M/S/C/U (McConnell/Short) Move to approve Consent Agenda as presented.
6A - PUBLIC HEARING AND RESOLUTION NO. 2979 ADOPTING THE CITY OF
BREMERTON WASTEWATER COMPREHENSIVE PLAN (#AB03- 220): Phil Williams, Public
Works & Utilities Director, narrated the POWER POINT presentation made tG summarize the
Wastewater Comprehensive Plan; as well as explained that the City of Bremerton desires to
plan for future growth in its wastewater service area. The Wastewater COr1nprehensive Plan
provides a means to evaluate future wastewater collection system and tre{tment plant needs.
This new Wastewater Comprehensive Plan will replace the current 1995 p an, and will bring the
City into compliance with all State Department of Ecology regulations for V fastewater
Comprehensive Plan elements as specified in WAC 173-240-050. This ple;m outlines a detailed
strategy to improve redundancy in bio-solids handling, transport, and applipation. It also
increases reliability of treatment operations by improving emergency powe'r capability.
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There were no comments from the public. I
!
Mr. Gehrina asked questions about the use of membrane [filtering] technGlogy for nutrient
removal. Mr. Williams responded that it was one available technology, bJt might be
expensive, and discussed a few other available treatment processes. I
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Mr. Shepherd asked if the City had considered purchasing the homes alo~g the Beach Main.
Mr. Williams responded that if it was only one or two homes that would be considered, but
there are many homes affecting the Kitsap Lake Beach Main.
Mr. Maupin raised concerns about failing septic systems on Marine Drive.1
6:11 :00 M/S/C/U (Short/Maupin) Move to pass Resolution No. 2979, adopting the City of
Bremerton Wastewater Comprehensive Plan.
6B - PUBLIC HEARING AND ORDINANCE NO. 4948 VACATING THE NioRTHERL Y 850
FEET OF RUSSELL ROAD TO OYSTER BAY AVENUE (#AB05-221): Miichael Mecham, City
Engineer explained that the City received a petition from Bremerton Housing Authority to vacate
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the northerly 850 feet of Russell Road to Oyster Bay Avenue for the devel~pment of an assisted
senior housing complex within Westpark. The road will be relocated soutHerly of its current
position. This date was scheduled for a Public Hearing in accordance with state law and the
Bremerton Municipal Code on the proposed ordinance vacating the subjeqt property. This is a
Class I right-of-way, and compensation will be paid by dedication of a like-kind right-of-way in
the anticipated redevelopment of Westpark.
There were no comments from the public.
6:14:45 M/S/C/U (Shepherd/Maupin) Move to adopt Ordinance No. 4948, vacating the northerly
850 feet of Russell Road to Oyster Bay Avenue.
71\ RESOLUTION NO. 2980 AMENDING THE CITY COUNCIL RULES t\ND PROCEDURES
TO J\LLOW "TELEPHONIC APPEARANCE" (#1\B03 141): Item pulled i
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City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes
September 21,2005
Page 3 of 6
7B - SALE OF FIRE STATION 1 (#AB03-142): President Nyaren stated that the City has
received two proposals to purchase Fire Station 1. One from the PORT OF BREMERTON for the
location of a fire museum; and another from LEX DIAMOND COMPANY for locating a restaurant
and office space.
Tim Thompson, Chief Operations Officer from the PORT OF BREMERTON, discussed the PORT'S
proposal to purchase Fire Station 1 and then leasing it to FIRE SERVICE MUSEUM NORTHWEST
(FSMNW) with an option for the museum to purchase the property.
Ken Boad discussed the 3-year effort by FSMNW to utilize Fire Station 1 for a museum during
a POWER POINT presentation.
Elie Benaron, CEO of LEX DIAMOND COMPANY explained his desire to purchase the building;
and also included an offer to provide use of the building to FSMNW for one-year to see if the
museum can be successful.
Don Forth, firefighter with the City of Portland, Oregon, shared his experience of a similar and
successful operation in Portland; and cautioned that even though a generous offer was made
by Mr. Benaron, it would probably take more time one-year to establish a first-quality museum.
Maryellen Babbit, as a home owner who lives directly behind Fire Station 1, expressed her
reasons for favoring the use of the building for a museum, and not a restaurant because she
had concerns with the increased noise from a busier establishment.
Donald Green liked the idea of a museum, and offered to donate fire memorabilia.
Stanley Hess, Museum Curator of the AURORA V ALENTINETTI PUPPET MUSEUM, provided his
comments in favor of the fire museum.
Don Larson liked the idea of a fire museum combined with a Fire Station-themed restaurant
and brew pub, similar to Tacoma's Engine House Number 9.
Volunteer Battalion Chief Terry Bontraaer, representing SOUTH KITSAP FIRE & RESCUE,
provided comments in full support of using Fire Station 1 for a fire museum.
Council's questions to Mr. Benaron regarding his proposal:
Mr. Short asked Mr. Benaron if he purchased the building, what would he do if the restaurant
failed. Mr. Benaron stated that he would locate another business in the building because he
could not make any money from a vacant building. He also stressed that the art deco was
unique and he had no plans to change the structure.
Mr. Maupin asked more details of his vision. Mr. Benaron responded he would like to make it
a nice place where people could gather to eat and have a drink, more like a restaurant.
Mr. McConnell questioned why the previous use was listed as a "diamond store and pool hall".
Mr. Benaron explained he originally thought the brick building could be used as a diamond
store, but he then realized he would need the space for a parking lot.
Ms. Priest asked if Mr. Benaron has owned a restaurant before; and expressed her concern
about whether Mr. Benaron would be willing to register the building as a historical sight to
maintain the historical integrity of the building even after the 5-years indicated in the proposal.
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City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes
September 21,2005
Page 4 of 6
Mr. Benaron first acknowledged that he has owned a restaurant before; and that he had every
intention of preserving the art-deco section of the building. He also expressed his willingness to
negotiate a longer term, but was hesitant to register the building as a historic site because of
the limitations that would be placed on the land forever. After further discussion, he agreed to
consider registering the building as a historical site.
Council's questions to the Port of Bremerton regarding their proposal:
Mr. Nvaren asked if the museum would be able to comply with ADA access requirements. Mr.
Loun stated that the primary portion of the museum that would have access for the public
would be located on the first floor.
Mr. Short reiterated his concern about maintaining the art-deco structure if the museum plan
fails and it is decided by the Port to put the building back on the market. Mr. Thompson stated
that if the building was put up for sale, it would be sold for the appraised value, and added that
the Port would work with the City to formulate the terms of the agreement that would be in line
with what the City wanted. They assured the Council that they have every intention of
preserving the art-deco structure, and may even expand the facade.
Ms. Priest also questioned accessibility requirements now that the Change-in-Use for the
building has gone from a "B Occupancy" to a "Place of Assembly". Mr. Loun stated they were
aware of the Change-in-Use, and said there would be no problem in complying with the new
requirements, and discussed a number of volunteers who will assist with the compliance.
Mr. Gehrina commented that although he thinks that having this type of museum would be
good for Bremerton and for families, he cautioned that it will take quite a bit of cash flow to keep
this type of enterprise going. He felt that Mr. Benaron's generous offer should be considered,
and further suggested a cooperative effort.
Ms. Robinson expressed her support for using the building for a museum because she felt it
was in line with what the City was trying to do; and also was happy to hear that fire prevention
would be included.
Mr. Shepherd stated that he did his own research and believes that the marketing capability of
the fire fighters would help make this museum a great success.
7:07:20 M/S (Shepherd/Robinson) Move to approve the sale of Fire Station 1 to the Port of
Bremerton in the amount of $320,000; and authorize the Mayor to finalize and execute all
documents necessary in order to close the transaction.
No vote was taken as the discussion continued...
Ms. Priest stated she liked the idea of museum, but expressed a number of concerns,
particularly how they would create repeat business. She felt that the ideal situation would be a
combination of the two proposals to increase the tax base.
Mr. Maupin felt the fiscally responsible decision was to accept Mr. Benaron's proposal.
Mr. Short would also like to see a combination, but acknowledged that Bremerton needs
another restaurant, and another business on the tax rolls. He asked for restrictions on the use
of the building, and wanted the City to maintain some control about what is done with the
building if it is sold in the future.
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City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes
September 21,2005
Page 5 of 6
Mr. Priest asked if this item could be delayed to allow time for gathering more information.
Laura Lyon, Finance Director, addressed the financial implications related to this sale, and
indicated that it would be their desire to have the transaction concluded by the end of the year
to resolve the interfund repayment.
Mr. Gehrina felt the opportunity to create something unique with a fire station outweighed the
fiscal aspects of a restaurant.
President Nyaren stated for the record that he did his best to provide equal opportunity for
both groups to present their proposals to the Council; and indicated that several letters of
support would be added to the official record, as well as a memorandum from the City Auditor.
Mr. Nyaren provided his opinion that by choosing the proposal from the PORT OF BREMERTON,
the City's options would remain open because of the generous offer from the Port to put the
building back on the market if the museum was not successful.
7:21 :29 Prior to the vote, Mr. Shepherd asked for a Point of Order regarding a possible
amendment to the Motion to include the requirement for registering the building for historical
preservation. Mr. Lubovich cautioned this action because the implications of such a request
were not fully known, and he only heard this request made by a few of the Council members.
He suggested that instead, the Council include a "friendly amendment" to the Main Motion that
the Final Agreement be brought back for "final Council approval':
A recess was taken from 7:30 to 7:36 PM...President Nvaren cautioned the Council members
not to have discussions with the audience...
7:37:42 M/S/C (Shepherd/Robinson) Move to approve the sale of Fire Station 1 to the PORT OF
BREMERTON in the amount of $320,000; and authorize the Mayor to finalize and execute all
documents necessary in order to close the transaction, subject to Council final approval.
Voted in favor of the Motion: Shepherd, Robinson, Gehring, McConnell, Nygren
Voted in opposition to the Motion: Maupin, Short, Priest
Motion carried: 5-Yes; 3-No
PUBLIC RECOGNITION
Kelsey Himes and Danielle Prusaitis express their concerns about the increase in trash, litter
and pollution, particularly on the beach and along Navy Yard Highway.
Don Larson reported on the success of the "Sinclair Inlet Clean-Up Event" this past weekend;
and thanked all the participants and sponsors.
COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS
Brad GehrinQ discussed his attendance at the POW & MIA Remembrance Ceremony last
Saturday; sadly reported on the loss of his good friend John Horton who was killed in a
motorcycle accident on Sunday leaving a wife and four children. Lastly, he invited the public to
attend the "5th Annual Biker Blues Blast" this weekend on September 23 & 24 at the Jefferson
County Fairgrounds in Port Townsend to benefit veterans and the ABATE Scholarship Fund.
Cecil McConnell welcomed fellow Council Member Wendy Priest back.
City Council Reg. Mtg.. Minutes
September 21, 2005
Page 6 of 6
Wendy Priest thanked Cecil and reported her baby is just recently letting her get some sleep!
She also encouraged citizens to volunteer to serve on the 1 % for the Arts Commission.
Mike Shepherd mentioned the tree-thinning project to take place at Lions Field next week; and
his plans to participate in the "Wild Salmon Hall of Fame Awards Dinner" on Saturday,
September 24 beginning at 6:00 PM at the Harborside Conference Center. Lastly, he reported
on the "One Church, One Family" program organized to provide relief assistance for Hurricane
Katrina victims.
Dianne Robinson also welcomed Wendy back.
Will Maupin reported on his attendance at the Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) Growth
Management Board; and the Kitsap Transit Board Meeting and Retreat. He was also pleased
to represent the City at the Navy Region Northwest luncheon, which included the unveiling of
new military housing.
Mike Short was pleased to attend the opening of "Frank Chopp Place".
Daren NYQren was pleased to accept the "LiHi Award of Excellence" presented to the
Bremerton City CounG:il for their contribution to "Frank Chopp Place" affordable housing; and
thanked the Council Members for their willingness to attend events on behalf of the City when
there are conflicts with his schedule.
With no further business, the regular meeting of the City Council was adjourned at 7:57 P.M.
Prepared and Submitted by:
~~dJu
LORI SMITH
Legislative Assistant
(
DAREN NYGREN, City C
City of Bremerton
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