HomeMy WebLinkAbout06/15/77
CITY COUNCIL, MINUTES
June 5, 1977
Regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Bremerton, Washington
was held in the City Council Chambers, City Hall, 239 Fourth Street, on
Wednesday, June 15, 1977 at 9:05 A.M., PDST, with Mayor Jarstad presiding.
Also present were Commissioner Stewart, Commissioner Schoneman, City Clerk
Yeadon, Asst. City Attorney Sexton and representatives of the press and
radio.
Meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and invocation was given
by Rev. Lewis Shultz of the Charleston Baptist Church.
MINUTES OF JUNE 8, 1977
Clerk read minutes of June 8, 1977. Mayor Jarstad ordered the minutes to
stand approved as read.
SEPARATIONS
Leslie W. Rose, Police Dept., 6/9/77, Motor patrolman, Retirement.
Craig M. Graber, Water Supply, 6/10/77, Serviceman I, Resignation.
Motion by Commissioners Schoneman and Stewart to approve separations, carried
unanimously.
NOTICES OP EMPLOYMENT
Jodell Starrett, Public. Works, Temporary-Secretary, $3.00 per hr., 6/15/77.
Rebecca Lyn Coffin, Accounting/Treasurer, Keypunch Operator II, $3.92 per hr.,
6/15/77.
Bruce Yeadon, Sign Shop, Summer Melp, $3.00 per hr., 6/15/77.
Bruce Edward Clark, Summer help, $5.00 per hr., 6/14/77.
Terrence Devery, Summer help, $3.00 per hr., 6/13/77.
John A. Delvo, Summer help, $3.00 per hr., 6/15/77.
Donnie C. McGill, Summer. help, $5.00 per hr., 6/15/77.
(These four employments are for the Street Dept.)
Wastewater Dept:
Gregory Roy Sage, Summer help, $3.00 per hr., 6/13/77.
Steven Lee Haver, Summer help, $S.00 per hr., 6/13/77.
Bruce Berkimer, Summer help, $3.00 per hr., 6/13/77.
Water Distribution:
Alan Lee Willlams, Summer help, $3.00 per hr., 6/15/??.
Stuart Porter, Summer help, $3.00 per hr., 6/i3/??.
Supply Dept:
Kelvin Green, Summer help, $3.00 per hr., 6/15/77.
James Michael Coombe, Summer help, $3.00 per hr., 6/6/77.
Eugene Francis Scales, Summer help, $3.00 per hr., 6/15/77.
Dave A. Patmen, Summer help, $3.00 per hr., 6/15/77.
Engineering Dept:
Pat Sobczyk, Extra help, $2.50 per hr., 6/13/77.
Kelly Berns, Extra help, $2.90 per hr., 6/13/77.
Parks & Recreation Dept:
Kenneth David Plowman, Extra-Labor, $2.30 per hr., 6/15/77.
Elizabeth Ann Taylor, Part-time playleader, $2.30 per hr., 6/15/77.
Gaylene Elizabeth Pittsley, Extra labor, $2.30 per hr., 6/15/77.
Paul Blaisc Scheer, Extra labor, $2.30 per hr., 6/15/77.
Cynthia Herton, Extra labor, $2.40 per hr., 6/15/77.
Lisa Dawn McConnell, Extra labor, $2.30 per hr., 6/15/77.
Jeff Nickerson, Extra labor, $2.30 per hr., 6/15/77.
Calvin Sylvestcr Burnell, Extra labor', $2.30 per hr., 6/15/77.
Walter Thomas Hamre, Extra labor, $2.30 per hr., 6/15/77.
Mlke Lloyd Hayes, Extra labor, $2.30 per hr., 6/15/77.
Cynthia Lee Willjams, Extra labor, $2.30 per hr., 6/15/77.
Nancy Jean Pariser, Lifeguard, $2.60 per hr., 6/15/77.
Glen Randall Screws, Lifeguard, $2.60 per hr., 6/15/77.
BradPord Alan Moravec, Extra Labor, Lifeguard, $2.60 per hi'., 6/15/77.
Mark Allen Bcrgsma, Extra labor, $2.30 per hr., 6/15/??.
Bruce T. Clark, Lifeguard, $2.95 per hr., 6/15/77.
Patricia Eileen Graisy, Extra labor, $2.30 per hr., 6/15/77.
Motion by Mayor Jarstad and Commissioner Schoneman to approve notices of
employments, carried unanimously.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
,June 15, 1977
Page two
CHANGE OF PAY STATUS a CHANGE OF STATUS
Charles Menell, Engineering Dept., Engr Aide I 8-A to Engr Aide I 8-B,
$5.26 per hr. to $5.41 per hr., 6/15/77.
Dean Mitchell Denis, Police Dept., Transfer from CETA to 2nd yr. patrolman,
no change in pay, 6/27/77.
Edwin B. Winningham, Police Dept., Transfer from CETA to 3nd yr. patrolman,
no change in pay, 6/27/77.
Motion by Mayor Jarstad and Commissioner Stewart to approve change in pay
status and changes in status, carried unanimously.
TAXICAB DRIVERS LICENSE
Brian Scott Deasy, approved by Asst. Chief of Police Kvistad.
Motion by Commissioner Stewart and Mayor Jarstad to approve taxicab drivers
license, carried unanimously.
CLAIM FOR DAMAGES
Clerk read letter from Alfred R. Hoehl, 3235 Woodcrest Dr., San Jose, CA
requesting a check in the amount of $236.48 for damages caused by a City
employee dropped three pipes from fork lift and the bell of one pipe cut
side of tractor tire on truck #1139. Clerk stated a copy of claim has
been sent to the insurance company.
BID AWARD - Furnace Conversion, City Hall
Clerk reported that figure of only bidder, Standard Plumbing and Heating is
realistic under cost Factors of equipment parts required and labor required,
and he recommended bid be awarded to only bidder.
Motion by Commissioner Stewart and Mayor Jarstad to award bid to Standard
Plumbing and Heating, carried unanimously.
BiD AWARD - Stove Oil, Heating & Motor Diesel Fuel
Clerk read memo from Asst. Puchasing Agent, dated June 8, 1977, which recom-
mended stove oil be awarded to Danes Heating and Heating & Motor Diesel Fuel
be awarded to Wilkins Distributing Co.
Motion by Commissioner Stewart and Mayor Jarstad to Follow recommendation and
award bid for PS100 stove oil to Danes Heating and PS200 Resting & Motor Diesel
Fuel to Wilkins Distributing Co., carried unanimously.
POLICE PENSION BOARD ELECTION
Clerk read letter to Police Pension Board dated June 13, 1977 which stated
that Del English received the highest number' of votes For a three-year term
on the Police Pension Board, replacing Everett Kinslow.
TEAMSTERS PENSION FUND
Clerk read memo to City Auditor from Asst. City Attorney Sells, dated June 9,
1977, which stated that he has reviewed the findings regarding the Teamsters
Pension Fund claims for $1,382.73 and it is his opinion that under the terms
of the Agreement between the Union and BCT, and the agreement between the
City and the BCT, the City is liable for payment; that the City forward the
requested sum to the Union.
Motion by Commissioner Stewart and Mayor Jarstad to approve payment of $1,382.73
he the Union, carried unanimously.
LEASEHOLD TAX - Kitsap Square Dance Association & Community Theatre
Clerk read memo from City Auditor, dated June 13, 1977, which stated that the
Square Dance Association and the Community Theatre Group are liable for a
considerable amount of leasehold taxes.
Motion by Commissioner Stewart and Mayor ,Jarstad to refer to City Attorney's
office to determine what can be done. Under discussion: Commissioner Stewart
stated he does not feel these organizations should have to pay leasehold tax
because they are non-profit. Mayor Jarstad stated the whole philosophy of the
City getting behind these groups was to provide activities for the citizens
of Brcmcrton; if it is possible, the City should eliminate leases altogether
if necessary so they don't have to pay leasehold tax. Stated all the money
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
June 15, 1977
Page three
that is taken in is put right back into the organization. Motion carried
unanimously.
RIGHT-OF-WAY, SHERIDAN ROAD
Clerk read memo from City Engineer, dated June 13, 1977, which stated Mr.
Butcher of 1011 Sheridan Road has stated that he will accept $1,000.00 for
a strip of land approximately 15 ft. by 250 ft.; that the acquisition of
this strip of R/W is essential for the construction of a sidewalk and the
completion of the street pavement. The memo recommended that City Council
authorize purchase of this strip of R/W because appraisal would cost an
additional $500.00 and condemnation proceedings would be time-consuming and
expensive.
Motion by Commissioners Schoneman and Stewart to approve purchase of strip
of R/W for $1,000.00. Under. discussion: Mr. Sexton stated it is all right
to buy this land. Motion carried unanimously.
COOPERATION AGREEMENT - BREMERTON HOUSING AUTHORITY & CITY OF BREMERTON
Boa Wetsteen, Executive Director of Bremerton Housing Authority, was present
at this time. Mr. Sexton stated he had studied the Cooperation Agreement
between the City and the Housing Authority and after review had made several
corrections. tie stated he had stricken paragraph 4 and in paragraph 5 had
stricken subsection b and subsection c. In paragraph 6 he had stricken
subsection b and subsection c. He read paragraph 4, which is being stricken.
tie read paragraph 5 where it is stricken and stated the City cannot give an
assurance of a street vacation and in connection with subsection c, the City
cannot grant deficiencies from the building code and there would have to be
specifications submitted. In paragraph 6, subsection b, which called for
accepting dedications of land to provide access to the project, the City
can't guarantee funding until such a time as it is known where the project
is going to be. In paragraph 6, subsection c, regarding sewers, water lines
the City would need specifications to provide funding to do those things.
Other than the above, he had no objections to the City Council signing the
Cooperation Agreement.
Motion by Mayor Jarstad and Commissioner Stewart to approve Cooperation
Agreement and authorize mayor and city clerk to sign for the City, carried
unanimously.
RESOLUTION N0. 1728 - Preliminary Loan Per Low-Rent Public Housing
Clerk read Resolution No. 1728, "A RESOLUTION of the City of Bremerton approving
application For Preliminary Loan for Low-Rent Public Housing".
Motion by Mayor Jarstad and Commissioner Stewart to pass Resolution No. 1728,
carried as follows: Mayor Jarstad, Yes; Commissioner Stewart, Yes; Commissioner
Schoneman, Yes.
WATER QUALITY SAMPLING (Yersinia)
Clerk read letter signed by Mark D. Spahr, Special Projects Engineer, Dept.
of Social & Health Services, dated June 7, 1977, which stated that tests for
Yersinia were being asked of 57 cities in Washington; that there is no
indication that Bremerton has any problem but it is a test analysis only.
PROMPT PAYMENT OF WATER BILLS
Clerk read memo from Asst. City Attorney Sells to the City Clerk, dated June
9, 1977, which stated that giving prompt payors of water bills a discount may
be in violation of Article 8, Sec. 7, of the Washington State Constitution;
but if the discount is an integral part of a pro-set rate structure, available
to all customers, there probably is no violation; that the City has the power
to set rates and this would be a rate. Commissioner Stewart stated the amount
being charged for being delinquent does not cover the cost of handling these
accounts and the people who pay their bills on time are being penalized. He
stated he felt rates should be raised 10% and then give a 10% reduction to all
those who pay promptly. Mayor Jarstad stated he is in favor if this will make
people pay promptly. Commissioner Stewart stated he would work on this.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
June 15, 1977
Page four
REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENT FOR EXTENDED SANITiLRY SEWER LINES - LANG/ARROYO
Clerk presented reimbursement agreement for construction'of an extended sewer
line at the intersection of Sheridan Rd. and McClain Ave.
Motion by Commissioners Schoneman and Stewart to accept reimbursement agreement
and authorize mayor and city clerk to sign for the City. Under discussion:
Commissioner Schoneman stated this project is presently underway prior to
completing Sheridan Rd. and this is one of the necessary utilities to go in.
Motion carried unanimously.
ORDINANCE, FIRST READING - Herbert Dick Rezone
Clerk read, first reading, "AN ORDINANCE amending the use and area maps
according to Ordinance No. 1792 (Herbert J. Dick)."
Motion by Mayor Jarstad and Commissioner Stewart to approve ordinance on
first reading, by title only, carried as follows: Mayor Jarstad, Yes;
Commissioner Stewart, Yes; Commissioner Schoneman, Yes.
PUBLIC RECOGNITION
Ron Coleman, 1485 NE Echo Dr., suggested not filling Memorial Pool since
the citizens have been told there is a critical water shortage. Commissioner
Schoneman assured him there was an ample supply of water; that this had been
programmed to allow the pool to be filled this summer. Mayor Jarstad called
attention to the number of children who used the pool and the swimming program
and stated this program was intended for children to learn to swim. Commissioner
Schoneman stated there is a sufficient supply to take care of the City's
population and the needs of the surrounding areas adequately. Mr. Coleman
stated if there is not a water shortage, the citizens should be made aware
of that and Commissioner Schoneman stated the City is still requesting that
people conserve water.
COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS
Commissioner Stewart:
1. Good news. City's B&O tax for first five months this year is $207,939.98
and at this point last year B&O tax receipts were $148,237.00. This is a
40% increase. Would like to report that business was better, but he attributed
the increase somewhat to better collection methods, because of the ability
to pick up new businesses and delinquents.
2. To help in the collection of B&O tax, he would like to change the ordinance.
Now the ordinance calls for a fine of up to $500.00 and up to 90 days in jail,
which does not happen. He would like to change the ordinance setting minimum
bail of $25.00 which would be required on all delinquent quarters of B&O tax.
Said if it was agreeable with the other commissioners, he would ask the City
Attorney to have an ordinance prepared. This would be fair to those who are
paying their taxes. There were no objections from the two commissioners.
Commissioner Schoneman:
1. Concerning a continuous growth in the City, it is reflected in the number
of building permits which are issued. For the first 15 days of June, 35
permits taken out for a total valuation of $1,303,795.00. This activity has
been going on steadily since the first of the year.
2. Contruction proceeding on curbs and gutters on Almira Dr. This is part
of the 1/2¢ gas tax program.
5. Sheridan Rd. project is proceeding with installation of sewers by others
and as soon as Aimira Dr. is completed will be moving in on Sheridan Rd.
prior to first of August.
4. Initial paving of intersection of Sylvan/Wheaton accomplished this week.
On June 22 and 25, there will be the final paving of the graded portion.
Signals for intersection are difficult to obtain and may not arrive until the
latter part of August, but temporary signals will be placed to allow for move-
ment.
5. Passage of SB 2143 reduces the Public Works ability to do street construc-
tion to $10,000.00 and Water Dept. to $15,O00.00. Public Works is able to
cut down in some of their higher positions; that there is a position open of
Asst. Street Superintendent and examination has been taken for it. However,
he is not going to fill the position; at the next budget meeting, it will be
entirely eliminated. By being reduced to more of a maintenance crew than a
construction crew will eliminate that position.
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CITY COUNCIl, MINUTES
June 15, 1977
Page five
MENTOR ANNEXATION - Kitsap Way & Corbett Drive
Mr. Sexton read a memo he received From the Planning Director, dated June 15,
1977, which stated it has been discovered in double checking the assessed
valuation that Mr. Mentor is not the owner of the required 75% of assessed
valuation of the annexation area, according to RCW 55.15.150. The breakdown
of ownership by valuation is Mentor: $6,060.00 or 28.5% and Westfall:
$15,200.00 or 71.5%, according to the assessor's records. Mr. Sexton stated
that based on this information, the petition considered last week was not
valid and therefore the action is automatically voided and Mr. Mentor should
be notified.
Motion by Mayor Jarstad and Commissioner Schoneman that the action taken last
week be voided and Mr. Mentor. be so notified, carried unanimously.
COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS (Continued)
Mr. Sexton:
Stated he had talked to the attorney representing Mercer Euterprises to set
up time for a meetina between the City, Mercer Enterprises and representatives
of the Kitsap Lake Environmental Association. Stated he encouraged Mercer
Enterprises to meet with Kitsap Lake Group so they can have some idea that
the meeting is intended to pursue negotiations pursuant to a lawsuit. Stated
a letter should be sent to Kitsap Lake Environmental Association and suggest
they meet with Mercer Enterprises ahead of time. Spoke about setting meeting
for June 27, 1977 at 1:30 P.M.
Mayor Jarstad:
1. Held a meeting with residents of the Coontz School site last Thursday
evening. There were about 100 people present and plans for beautifieation
and open space plans for the property were shown. Received excellent response
from the neighborhood. Stated he thought it was necessary to invite them
to a public meeting before starting construction, which will probably be next
week.
2. Heard back from the citizens who are circulating petitions for annexation
in the Pine Rd., Riddell and Wheaton Way area. The petition will be before
the City Council probably next week as a 10% petition.
5. Spoke of the excellent sunder programs and hoped everyone would participate.
4. Mentioned the Public Works award of $1,745,000.00 which by Federal Statutes
must be negotiated with the School District to show on which projects are the
highest priorities and get under construction. Hopes to build the needed pool
and activity center. Going to have the design team and will be visiting in
the area looking at pools.
5. Took his wife and mother-in-law and left last Friday after work to go to
California to visit her sister and relatives. She is 79 years of age.
ASST. STREET SUPERINTENDENT POSITION
Lilly Piva, representing non-uniformed employees in Bremerton, urged that
the Asst. Street Superintendent position not be eliminated. Stated that the
morale of the employees is very low and elimination of this position would
lower it even further. Stated she felt the position should have been deleted
prior to the examination rather than now after some of the employees have
passed it; and she again urged Commissioner Schoneman not to delete this
position until there is a little more investigation. She urged him to give
this further consideration.
Meeting recessed from 10:25 A.M. until 10:55 A.M.
LEASEHOLD TAX
Mayor Jarstad explained to interested persons from the Bremerton Community
Theatre regarding the report on the leasehold tax and stated that the matter
has been referred to the City Attorney's office. Lillian Bartley, President
of the Bremerton Chamber of Commerce, stated she is going on record for the
Chamber of Commerce in support of any action on the ruling of the leasehold
tax. Suggested perhaps interested representatives could meet with the State
Dept. of Revenue people.
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CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
,June 15, 1977
Page six
SCHUYLER/WOWARAS CIIJ~NGE IN LAND USE RESTRICTIONS HEARING
Mr. Wowaras asked for postponement of the hearing and stated he had the
approval of Mr. Robinson from the Sheridan Neighborhood.
Motion by Commissioner Stewart and Mayor Jarstad to postpone Schuyler hearing
For two weeks, carried unanimously.
BLIGHT AND REDEVELOPMENT HEARING
Motion by Mayor Jarstad and Commissioner Schoneman to hold public hearing on
Blight and Redevelopment at this time, carried unanimously.
Mayor Jarstad noted the Council Chambers was full of interested citizens and
he gave some remarks to allay the fears of the citizens of the two areas being
considered in this hearing. Mr. Sexton stated the process is a new one and
gave a report of the processes gone through to date, explaining what has
occurred since February 1977 at which time the mayor appointed a committee.
He showed Chart I (Exhibit 1) giving the names of the committee members and
the committee activities. The committee consisted of: Ray Sewell, Eddie
Bjork, Merlin Frohardt, Jim Ryan, Chris Washington and Gary Sexton. Stated
they had looked at various areas of possible need and the City has to get
beyond the talking stage to an Urban Renewal Agency and an Urban Renewal
District. When this was established, they should meet with various persons
and activities and develop a specific plan for redevelopment of the
downtown area and would develop proposal of how to implement the plan. He
stated it was not envisioned to tear everything down in the defined area.
Under a development renewal it would be to improve through some residential
plan and through other plans. Rave selected two principle areas, one is from
Washington to Warren and from the Navy Yard to 6th Street and the other is to
llth Street. The first is Redevelopment A and second Redevelopment B. He
stated further that the City hired Lee Johnson Co. to prepare the EiS and
Jim Braman to be the Responsible Official to get out the announcement and
prepare for today. The impact statement was prepared and got input on it.
The two things that have to be found are set out in the Statute 35.81.O40
and Mr. Sexton read this section. He stated he would call on Mr. Braman
in reference to the EIS and Chris Washington to give a presentation about
building structures and streets and Jim Ryan to make his presentation about
land uses and other considerations.
Jim Braman talked about the EIS and three areas: (l) Finding of blight
in the area; (2) The need of redevelopment in the area; and (3) Creation
of a Redevelopment Agency. Discussed some of the secondary actions that may
occur. He stated in terms of the primary actions is a judgment of the
Responsible Official, that the impacts of those actions are extremely limited.
There could be an impact if there is a finding of blight but there is no
rather quick action and there could be a depressing effect on real estate
values if it wasn't followed up. Stated the secondary impacts were really
more difficult to weigh because there is no redevelopment plan. There has
been some planning work done and there is an ldea how much potential there
is in downtown south of 6th Street. The possible potential impacts would
be increase of employment, improvement of tax base, improvement of appearance
and along the waterfront, g removal of blight in the downtown area. Stated
that 30% potential retail trade leaks outside the Bremerton area. Economists
state could be cut down to 10%, resulting in more employment. Negative
impacts: increase in traffic, air pollution and reloeation. If proceed
with redevelopment, there will be some need of updating this information.
Environmental guidelines require that there be a minimum of 7 days from
issuance of the Impact Statement until action can be taken. That started
yesterday.
Chris Washington used a large colored map and stated he would be discussing
the shape the buildings are in in Section A, Navy Yard to 6th St., water
to Warren Ave. He explained how the inspector, Mr. Bean, took the survey
by using a checklist and looking at buildings from the outside and sometimes
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CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
June 15, 1977
Page seven
from the inside, where he could get in; that this was not an engineering
survey but a survey of what any person would see who was looking at the
buildings. He applied the checklist to particular buildings and made
observations of their condition. Mr. Washington explained the qualifica-
tions of Mr. Bean. Mr. Isaac Soriano asked questions about the inspector
and the inspections. He was concerned about the inspector not checking with
the owners of the buildings. Mr. Washington stated the Fire Dept. also made
an inspection which was a general safety inspection made on fire safety.
Mr. Sexton talked about the problem with shortage of time and stated that
over 100 buildings had been looked at and that it will not be used for the
purpose of charging someone with criminal violations or violations of codes,
etc. This was of a general nature for the purpose of this hearing. He
stated they were not attempting to make specific findings about a specific
building and they were not looking as a fire inspector or a building
inspector. Mr. Jerry Soriano talked about the need to look at funds, etc.
through the land owner. Further discussion was held on the preliminary
look-around. Mr. Soriano remarked that this report will not be used against
the land owners and Mr. Sexton stated, "No."
Chris Washington speaking from Exhibit #2 gave a run-down of various buildings
beginning with YMCA.
Mayor Jarstad adjourned this portion of the meeting until 1:30 P. M.
SMITH NEIGHBORHOOD
A representative of the neighborhood gave out copies of their plan.
BIDS FOR BORING MACHINE:
Motion by Mayor Jarstad and Commissioner Stewart to open the bids, carried
unanimously.
Clerk opened the bids and read from the following:
Fray Equipment Inc., cashier's check for $50.00 enclosed, total including
sales tax, $4084.25. Pacific Diesel Co., company check enclosed for $50.00,
total including sales tax, $2,681.01.
Motion by Commissioner Stewart and Commissioner Schoneman to turn the bids
over to committee, carried unanimously.
CYR/TEMPIO CHANGE IN SITE PLAN HEARING
Motion by Mayor Jarstad and Commissioner Stewart to continue the time of
hearing and hold it at 3:30 P.M, carried unanimously.
Meeting recessed at 12:26 P. M. to 1:30 P. M.
Meeting reconvened at 1:40 P. M. with Mayor Jarstad, Presiding. Also present
were Commissioner Stewart, Commissioner Schoneman, City Clerk Yeadon, Asst.
City Attorney Sexton, Chris Washington, Jim Ryan and James Branmn. Also
present was representative of the press.
Chris Washington continued on reporting on buildings and the briefly summarized
his report. The building inspection reports were submitted as Exhibit #3.
Mr. Washington submitted the fire inspection reports for this same area as
Exhibit #4.
Mr. Washington submitted in a manila envelope Exhibit #5 - pictures taken
of the different structures by the Fire Department. Not all structures but
those with problems that the Fire Dept. saw.
Mr. Sexton stated that these exhibits will be used by the commissioners that
this is only a part of the information that will be considered as the hearing
goes along. These are only a part of the twenty blight definitions.
Mr. Chris Washington stated even though he was not going into detail into the
business establishments in Section B, the building reports are tagged Exhibit
#6. He stated that Page 23 of a report that was established by the Planning
Department deals with the housing conditions. He gave percentages of housing
in various conditions in Section B. (Exhibit #7)
Mr. Sexton stated they hope to have plan by October and then the plan could
be implemented within two years. Hearings will be held before plan adopted.
Discussion held regarding land values which would go down if nothing is done.
Mayor Jarstad stated the Smith Neighborhood is interested in holding up the
values of the neighborhood.
Chris Washington showed map of streets, sidewalks, conditions and widths, starting
with Washington Avenue and gave a report of inspected conditions. Then showed
a map of sewers. Street and sidewalks. Street, sidewalk and sewer reports
are Exhibit #8. Street and alley photographs are Exhibit #9. Street Map is
Exhibit #10. Sewer System map is Exhibit #11.
Jim Ryan showed map with Land Ownership information. The information was
obtained from the county treasurer's office through their computer of the tax
rolls. Exhibit #12. This method is that which is set out in state statutes.
Mr. Ryan discussed "diversity of ownership" as part of the determination of
"blight". Colored map showed that ownerships are broken up and the owners
in an area would have to get together. This would be difficult. Discussed
platting situation and alleys which would make it difficult to have a J. C.
Penneys type of store. Downtown platting is a residential type of platting,
and is not conducive to growth and development in downtown Bremerton. Also,
the plat is laid out in street grids and does not take into account the slopes.
This leaves some of the lots unuseable or very difficult to build upon or
impossible. Retail establishments have developed along Pacific below 5th
Street and for pedestrians to have to cross streets is not conducive to growth.
Land Ownership Map is Exhibit #13. Land Use Map is Exhibit #14.
Mr. Ryan discussed at length land use, which is one of the concerns of "blight".
Also, discussed open spaces. Discussed affect of harsh lights, street signs,
utilities, etc. which clutter the surroundings where people shop. Waterfront
not accessible to the public in general. Considerable of the space taken up
by parking; no benches, no grass; also, taken up by coranercial activities.
There isn't much open space in the two areas and is largely covered by buildings,
parking lots and streets. Many of the residences are not kept up and it is
difficult to interest anyone in developing in that particular area because
not conducive to that kind of activity.
Mr. Ryan stated that mixed uses and inappropriate uses of land is another
part of the definition of "blight". Named a number of inappropriate uses:
governmental, wholesale, and residences, especially when residences are
located on the first floor. Also, light industrial uses are inappropriate
along the waterfront if not water dependent, such as lumber yard and storage.
Black Ball freight is another inappropriate use. Moving and storage company
on Pacific Avenue, also.
Mr. Ryan discussed the grey area shown on the map which refers to parking.
This is one of the most graphic things and shows that parking takes up a
great deal of space in downtown Bremerton. One-third of the downtown is
comprised of parking - non right-of-way parking. One-third is taken up with
alleys and streets and that leaves one-third for buildings. This parking
method is considered excessive and not considered to be effective. There
is considerable unpaved and unmarked parking which leads to ground erosion.
Another inappropriate use is manufacturing. One is tire recapping on Burwell.
Also, the recapping use brings congestion of trucks in the area, noise, fumes.
Another, is the sheetmetal shop.
Mr. Ryan commented that the uncoordinated use of commercial activity in the
area north of 6th Street is a major problem. Little concern has been given
to the residential development that exists in that area as it connects with
commercial growth. Severe on-street parking problem.
(TAPE #000)
North of 4th has some medium density residential structures sadly in need of
repair. These are essentially apartment houses. Better use of the area would
be office space, convention center, etc. Mr. Ryan summarized the data shown
on the land use map.
(TAPE #119)
Gary Sexton read out of report related to inefficient use of parking. Con-
cerning esthetics, downtown is a hodge-podge.
Hearing continued.
HEARING - CYR/TEMPIO (Change in Land Use Restrictions - 2119 6th Street)
Clerk stated he had posted, advertised and mailed notices as required by law.
Then read Planning Commission Resolution No.406. Clerk read the results
of the confidential advisory ballot. Ken Attebery discussed the area and
gave background information from previous rezone record. Stated there is
sufficient parking for this plan and building size. No access is planned
from Fifth Street. Originally, the area was to be used entirely for parking
and proper screening and fencing, and no access from Fifth Street.
Commissioner Schoneman stated he would object to this on the basis of any
traffic proceeding to the West along Sixth Street would not have ingress into
this property. It would tie up traffic from Naval Avenue clear through.
Have a proposal for fifth lane at 6th and Naval that will allow better use of
the intersection than now. One car attempting to gain entrance going west
would tie hp the traffic. If considered, there would be ingress and egress
in one direction. Mayor Jarstad stated he would agree with that. Mr. Schoneman
stated to accept this change there would have to be "C" curbing in the center
of the street to prevent anyone from turning in to the property.
Mr. Jack Cyr stated he was attorney from Norman and Caroline Tempio, land
owners of this parcel and he had Just talked with a representative of the
Pizza Hut and he said he would be willing to accept the curbing and not make
a left-hand turn across 6th Street. The original plan did call for drive-
way for Naval and 6th. Discussed the original plan with Royal Fork and
stated he might be able to work out an arrangement with adjoining property
owners to go through to Naval Avenue. Commissioner Schoneman commented that
this might not be possible with the re-arrangement of the turn-movement lanes
and storage lanes. Mr. Cyr commented that they had given up the 5th Street
access when applying for the Royal Fork and now giving up Naval Ave. possibly.
Mayor Jarstad discussed the safety in going into a parking area, and improve-
ments are to facilitate the movement of traffic around there.
Commissioner Stewart discussed some complaints of neighbors on 5th Street
concerning the enclosed garbage collection site~ shown on southwest corner
of the property. Suggested to fit in with neighbors should be put on the
southeast corner and moving the building down. Mr. Cyr stated they can re-
design and put it on that side and this is not a major consideration. Mr.
Stewart stated he would like to make that a restriction.
OPPOSITION - None.
Motion by Mayor Jarstad and Commissioner Schoneman to agree with the Planning
Commission and approve the change of site plan with restriction that there
only be entrance off 6th Street and no entrance off 5th Street and garbage
pickup area be changed to the southeast corner of the property; ingress and
egress from traffic going in one direction and the "C" curbing be placed
in the center of the street at the cost of the developer, carried unanimously.
BLIGHT HEARING (continued)
Mr. Adrian Van Elten, 631 Highland, asked whether a plan for development be
produced before any area, A & B, is called a blighted area. Mr. Sexton stated
No, a determination will be made on whether an agency is to be established.
Then a plan would be made by meetings with property owners, planners, etc.
Mr. Van Elten stated he was opposed to the procedure that is required because
of the damage done to the people. House would not be saleable if called
"blighted area". He stated he will get a petition to oppose any of the plans.
Mayor Jarstad commented concerning the procedures and getting to the point of
making it more attractive to live. Mayor stated maybe no plan will go beyond
6th Street. Mr. Van Elten stated he would like to have the city do that
before anything else is done. He also suggested a self-insurance fire insurance
plan so something can be returned to the city. He again stated he would like
to see a plan before he goes along with any idea of a blight area. Commissioner
Stewart stated Should also know where funds are coming from and developers
before go.
Jim Graves, 650 Highland Avenue, called attention to parking lot to the south
of his house and cars and garbage trucks drive over the sidewalk, cracking it.
Also, he has been told it his responsibility to keep up the sidewalk and there
is a water meter there which may be damaged if continue. Need higher curbs.
Commissioner Schoneman stated it is illegal to drive over sidewalks and the
police can ticket. Commissioner Stewart stated he had never received one
complaint but he will write the garbage contractor because he does not want
them to drive over the sidewalk.
Mr. Jim Braman spoke about the subject, stating that"blight" is a terrible
word and it doesn't have to be used again in any future plan or discussion;
that what is meant is that this is a area where it needs special attention
and the Council has to go through the painful process as to whether there is
blight. He stated it is hard to get the process and harder to get funds unless
there has been a finding of blight by the City Council. Federal agencies
would want to know the city was serious in connection with blight.
Commissioner Stewart stated he would like to see a negative tax. He said he
was concerned about devaluing peoples property so they can't sell it.
If there is a declaration of blight and nothing followed up it could be an
affect.
Mr. Sexton talked about the commitment necessary to benefit the community;
that they have been told by agencies that the city must show an intent before
they will talk to us and give planning funds.
Commissioner Stewart discussed the expenditure of funds already for planning
and now planning must be again and declaring some peoples' property blight.
A lady asked what kind of funding would be available. Mr. Braman stated this
would be the wildest kind of speculation; there are changes in the federal
level all the time; hard to say. In the past have been grants and low interest
loans at 3%; that has been a federal program through HUD.
Mr. Sexton spoke of the interest of the president in blight; and one of the
things is whether an applicant goes in at the right time. The city will not
find out what is available until it goes forward with a specific application.
Have had encouragement from several agencies and HIrO. Mr. Sexton spoke of
including the area above 6th Street after the proposed redevelopment was
started because in talking with the federal people it was made very clear
that their funding was the key to improvement in the area, providing parks,
and the area has a beautiful opportunity to augment the downtown area.
A lady asked if the plan will fit in with neighborhood plan and Mr. Braman
stated this will be one of the major considerations.
Mayor Jarstad stated the federal government should be told what we are going
to do for the areas around the business development. There is nothing to say
that any people are going to be removed but to upgrade the area. Mr. Stewart
stated past grant programs are not going now and Mr. Braman agreed.
Question was brought up about renters and absent landlords. Mr. Braman
suggested that a minimum maintenance ordinance is possible. Betty Larsen
stated she was an absent landlord who had bought four houses in the area
of 8th and McKenzie for investment and they keep them up; however, they
are suffering from blight in the area and it is hard to get renters to
come in to take care of things as a normal person would do.
Jack Holmes, 712 Park Avenue, stated they own a seven-unit low density apart-
ment house there. Wondering what the term "blighted area" is going to do
to them. Is it going to hurt them and how much is it going to hurt them?
Bought for an investment and sometime would sell and get something out of it.
If the city declares "blighted) and don't do anything, what will happen when
someone wants to buy it? Mayor Jarstad answered that he did not think that
this Council or anybody on this Council would want to be a party to losing.
He gave further answers to Mr. Holmes and talked about the ability to set
up a redevelopment agency to plan and have public hearings. Stated it would
probably be at least two weeks from today and may continue the hearing if
more want to talk to the Council.
Commissioner Stewart commented that people with all this have asked whether
they should spend any money to fix up their buildings; and he has told them
to go ahead because nothing may happen; that he hates to see investments stop
because waiting for federal government to come along.
Dorothy Morrison, owner, 636 Pleasant, stated she just put $8,00.00 into her
property. She spent the money and had faith in that street and if she went
to sell it tomorrow she would wonder. Mr. Sexton stated they had just built
a new building and they don't expect the term to have any affect. Stated they
//~
have heard people say we have blight and the idea is to try to stop that and
prevent any further blight. This would establish an agency. He said that
her money was well spent. He said he didn't think anyone was going to lose
by this determination but that blight will be stopped and values will go up.
Sarah Newland, 935 Highland, asked for examples of any areas that have benefited
by this type of program. Mr. Braman discussed this question. Named Seattle,
Portland, Eugene, Bellingham, Everett, Hoquiam. Some of them don't have as
much going for them as Bremerton in terms of growth. Have been both successful
and unsuccesful. Later programs more successful than earlier onces. Concerning
availability of funds, Commissioner Stewart stated he had talked to HUD and
they said the only thing they had going was guaranteed interest where a bank'
will give a guaranteed interest rate; otherwise, they have the five-year low
rent guarantee where a building is constructed and lease is to low rent.
Mayor Jarstad commented he hoped that nobody will be afraid to explore those
avenues that mean self-improvement to the city; that whatever we do, we do
as a body and whatever authority rests in the Council is the authority given
to the Council by the citizens. The only reason the city gets into this is
by authority of eminent domain. He asked whether the Council has before
it enough evidence that there is blight according to statutue in this area.
Next step would be the appointment of redevelopment agency to put ~ogether
proposed plans for the citizens to see for themselves if necessary for downtown
progress. He said he was sure that these plans would go further than the
downtown area and beyond Sixth Street. Then would have to study it and have
in-put, and them if funds available go ahead.
A lady asked about just compensation. Mayor Jarstad explained the protections
afforded under federal government rules. Highest appraisal values used.
Federal government does not want to hurt anyone. Mayor also stated there
are millions of dollars invested in downtown Bremerton. There is lack of
open space, park property, high-rise space. Commissioner stated all that
has been done under HUD has not been an improvement and there have been some
real bad projects under HUD. There is a risk and reward.
Mayor stated hearing will be continued to two weeks from today. Hearing
concluded at 5:20 P. M.
OLD THEATER BUILDING, 12th & Broadway
Clerk read letter to Andrew Pendergast, dated June 13, 1977, from Community
Theater, Inc. which stated the old theater is totally available for demolition.
Motion by Commissioner Stewart and Mayor Jarstad to dispose of the building
and declare it surplus, carried unanimously. (Mayor left the meeting.)
BOYD V. BECK (Dick Feek Service Inc.) SHORELINE PERMIT
Clerk read memo. from Planning Dept. dated June 16, 1977, which stated a hearing
date may be scheduled by City Council for a date after July 2, 1977.
Motion by Commissioners Stewart and Schoneman to set the time and date for
the hearing July 13, 1977, at 10:30 A. M., carried.
SURPLUS WOOD DESK
Clerk read memo. from Ray Foley, Parks Dept., dated June 15, 1977, requesting
one desk worth about $10.00 be declared surplus for disposal in the best
interest of the city.
Motion by Commissioners Schoneman and Stewart to declare the desk surplus
and dispose of same, carried.
BILLS
Clerk presented payment of vouchers 7287 to 7375 inclusive in the amount of
$190,610.61, audited by John R. Ross, for blanket approval.
Motion by Commissioner Schoneman and Commissioner Stewart to pay all bills,
carried unanimously.
Meeting adjourned at 5:27 P.M. (Tape #182)
G. C. Yeadon, St., City Clerk
Approved: Mayor) ~