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HomeMy WebLinkAbout12/03/2008 DIGITAL RECORDING CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES DEe 1 7 2008 Wednesday, December 3,2008 The weekly meeting of the City Council of the City of Bremerton was called to order Wednesday, December 3, 2008, at 5:00 PM in Council Conference Room 603 of the NORM DICKS GOVERNMENT CENTER, 345 6th Street, Bremerton, Washington, with Council President Will Maupin presiding. Council Members present were Nick Wofford, Carol Arends, Dianne Robinson, Mike Shepherd, Roy Runyon, Adam Brockus, Cecil McConnell, and Brad Gehring. Also present were Assistant City Attorney Ken Bagwell; City Clerk Carol Etgen; and Council Assistant Christine Grenier. A COUNCil BRIEF:ING was held to discuss General Council Business; and also included a 15-Minute EXECUTIVE SESSION to discuss "Labor Negotiations" per RCW 42.30.140 (4)(b). At 5:30 PM the meeting moved to the City Council Chamber. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Council Member Brad Gehrin~ followed by the invocation provided by Deacon Bill Hamlin of Our Lady Star of the Sea Church. MA VOR'S REPORT . Attended the Comfort Inn's Grand Opening event this afternoon and was pleased with the results of the $7 to $8 million invested in the renovation by the new owner, Bob Park; . Congratulated Gary Sexton for his hard work towards downtown redevelopment on the Harborside project which recently received the "Excellence on the Waterfront" National Award; . Presented a plaque in recognition to Laura Lyon for her service to the City and for her efforts in developing an incredibly difficult budget; and . Also thanked the Council and City staff for their months of hard work in preparation of the budget. PUBLIC RECOGNITION & ANNOUNCEMENTS Dianne Robinson announced the 151 Annual 15th Street Winter Warmer Food Drive on December 6 from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at 15th Street & Callow Avenue; food donations will be welcome, there will be opportunities to take photos with Santa, and refreshments will also be served. The event will be hosted by Hairworks, Luigi's Baking Company, Hi-Lo's Cafe, and SEIU Local 925. Mike Shepherd encouraged people to attend the Peninsula Dance Theatre performance of "The Nutcracker" this Friday, December 5 and Saturday, December 6 at 8:00 PM and Sunday, December 7 at 3:00 PM at Bremerton High School. Roy Runyon reminded people of First Friday Artwalk this Friday, December 5 from 5:00 to 8:00 PM; also, Collective Visions Gallery will be holding a food donation drive to benefit local food banks during Artwalk. Adam Brockus announced Winterfest will be held this Friday, December 5 beginning at 5:30 PM at Domstad Vista Park in Manette; and events will include a performance by 8-year old "Little Elvis" Brian Dent at 6: 15 PM and a food drive to benefit the Salvation Army. Charleen Burnette, BKA T Manager, invited the public to attend the Grand Opening of the new BKAT Studio tomorrow, December 4 from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at 7266 Tibardis Road. Katrina Fulkerson, Kitsap YMCA, announced that Resolution Runs will be held on 15t Sundays in 2009 starting on January 4 with potlucks or barbeques immediately following each race; Teen Late Night will be held 8:30 to 11 :00 PM every Friday; and Splash & Jam will be held on 3rd Saturdays from 6:00 to 9:00 PM. PeQ~y Adkins expressed concerns about an ongoing property line dispute with her neighbor. City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes VVednesday, December 3, 2008 Page 2 of 9 CONSENT AGENDA A. Check Numbers 328526 through 328725; and EFT-8300 through EFT-8332 in the amount of $3,906,556.73; Regular Payroll in the amount of $753,467.13 for the pay period ending November 30, 2008; and Retiree Payroll in the amount of $79,053.51 for the pay period ending November 30,2008 (#AB08-260) B. Minutes of Budget VVorkshop - November 18, 2008 (#AB08-261) C. Minutes of Meeting - November 19, 2008 (#AB08-262) 05:50:15 M/S/C/U (Runyon/Brockus) Move to approve the CONSENT AGENDA as presented. GENERAL BUSINESS - There were no General Business Items tonight... PUBLIC HEARING 6A - APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE CITY OF BREMERTON'S 2009 ANNUAL BUDGET (#AB08-263): Cathy Johnson, Interim Financial Services Director and Laura Lyon, former Financial Services Director provided a presentation on the 2009 annual budget and outlined changes and cuts made during the review process. The City of Bremerton prepares its budget on an annual basis under the authority granted by Chapter 35.33 RCVV. The budget process is designed to meet the operations and service needs of the City by integrating the planning and implementation of City programs and objectives with the allocation of resources sufficient to support such services and programs - within the limits of available funds. A preliminary annual budget for fiscal year 2009 has been prepared and filed with the Office of the City Clerk. Public hearings have been held for the purpose of fixing the final City Budget and the City Council has deliberated and, with the agreement with the Mayor, made adjustments and changes deemed necessary and proper. President Maupin opened the Public Hearing for comments from the public.. . Annie Hensel and Hillary Hamilton, Public VVorks & Utilities employees, expressed concerns that jobs that are slated to be cut will allow bumping of other employees such as themselves. Silvia Klatman, Executive Director of the Bremerton Area Chamber of Commerce, emphasized that the proposed lodging tax allocation will not be enough to support visitor center operations and services will be cut back; and urged the Council to support organizations that will draw revenue, support jobs, and bring people to Bremerton. Rob Ashmore, Fire Fighter's Union, pointed out that EMS funds will not be collected until April 2009 which will block the hiring of additional firefighters and medics, and cause a position in fire prevention to be unfilled. Wendy Priest asked for clarification on the grant funding status for the Martin Luther King Jr. Library Renovation project located at 4th Street. Ed Wolfe and wife Wendy Miles, encouraged Council to continue their support for economic development. Carol Et~en read letters on behalf of Michael Brown and Ron Sher in support of economic development and the position filled by Gary Sexton. Ron Ro~erson, Kitsap Credit Union, read a statement for Elliott Gregg, CEO, in support of Gary Sexton, economic development, and the Harborside project. City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes Wednesday, December 3,2008 Page 3 of 9 06:17:18 Main Motion was made and seconded; and discussion by the Council was opened... Laura Lyon responded that the lodging tax has been impacted in the current economy and encouraged Council to retain the committee's recommendations and not overextend the allocations; summarized that property tax payments received by the City arrives twice each year and Mr. Ashmore was correct that funding for EMS would be carried over into the next year - and fire inspection is being reduced from 2 positions to 1 position but that person is being transferred to another program which is being funded by EMS funds; and answered that there is no funding for library renovation in the 2009 budget and now too much time has passed to qualify for a federal match. Mr. Shepherd commented on a survey that several Council Members conducted recently and that they had received interesting feedback from citizens, and that he would be proposing amendments based on some of these suggestions. Ms. Robinson thanked Laura Lyon and Finance Staff for the long hours spent in balancing the budget; but could not support any increases in fees and rates or water rates, voluntary reduction in force, reduced work week, or reductions in force. She believed the City needs to find creative ways in how to operate within our means; and that our budget should support our priorities including the support of streets projects. Mr. McConnell asked why the Fire Department does not have an ending fund balance. Ms. Lyon clarified that no department in the General Fund has an ending fund balance and that those funds are carried over as beginning fund balance which is shared among departments in the General Fund. Mr. McConnell asked what would happen during the last six months of the EMS Levy. Ms. Lyon emphasized that adequate cash is carried over to cover the EMS funding needs until the next property tax payments are received. Also, funding is usually continued when levies are renewed or if the levy is not renewed, there will still be funds received for an additional six months after the levy ends. Mr. McConnell expressed concerns about the proposed elimination of the fire prevention officer. Chief AI Duke explained that a reduction would mean that fire inspections would take 1-% to 2 years rather than 1 year to complete. Mr. Brockus asked if this change will affect our insurance rating. Chief Duke stated that it is possible more so with commercial than residential structures. Mr. Brockus asked if the expenditures for the levy are set by state law. Ms. Lyon clarified that the levy language restricts what the funds may be used for. Mr. Runvon thanked Ms. Lyon for her service; and was concerned that the funding for the downtown library was not used and that he intended to propose an ordinance to preserve the building. Mr. Gehrin~ recognized the Mayor and departments for making tough decisions during the budget process; offered his support for economic development; and believed that there will be much more work to do next year to maintain a flexible budget. 06:48:30 Amending Motion was made and seconded.... President Maupin re-opened the public hearing for public comments ... Rob Ashmore emphasized that in other comparable cities, there are two or three assistant chiefs and eliminating the one assistant chief in Bremerton will have an impact on the department, especially when it comes to responding to large scale events; and encouraged Council to reconsider this suggestion. Todd Thorsen, Fire Department, referred to a 2006 Study which clearly showed that Bremerton Fire Services are understaffed. City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes Wednesday, December 3, 2008 Page 4 of 9 President Maupin closed the meeting for a 10-minute recess from 6:55 to 7:05 PM... Ms. Lvon stated that this amendment would allow financial flexibility; the individual may cause bumping which would result in the last hired to be out. There would be a $112,389 savings if bumping occurs due to a lower cost in the severance process or $66,481 if the employee leaves. Chief Duke clarified that the last position out would include a paramedic and that the other staff would work overtime, which would ultimately "eat up" any savings. Mr. Shepherd agreed that the proposal would have repercussions; asked how long does the bumping process take place. Chief Duke answered that it is possible the new hire would be in July and there could be a few months before a bump takes place. Mr. McConnell asked when individuals bump to another position, do they need to be trained. Chief Duke answered that people can bump and then be trained later. Mrs. Arends did not support the proposed reductions; and emphasized how important fire services are to the community. Mr. GehrinQ asked what duties would have to be absorbed if the Assistant Chief position were eliminated. Chief Duke stated that duties outside of the office such as Regional Fire Authority would go away and that he would be far more involved in daily operations and hiring of new employees. Rov Runvon agreed with Mrs. Arends on the importance of the Fire Department but would like to see improved efficiencies in the Fire Department. Nick Wofford requested clarification on the RFA. Chief Duke answered that RFA is the Regional Fire Authority and has involved substantial staff time for over a year. Mr. Wofford agreed that there are too many details to make a decision tonight. Mr. McConnell believed that the testimony has made it clear that his idea may not be best for the City at this time. Ms. Robinson asked what is involved with the Assistant Chief position. Chief Duke answered that the Assistant Chief oversees facilities, staffing, and vehicles; and responds to emergencies at night. Ms. Robinson also asked about ISO and what is our current rating. Chief Duke explained the City is currently rated as a 3 and that water supply, operations of fire department, fire prevention, equipment and vehicles are taken into consideration for establishing the ISO rating. Mr. Maupin believed it is dangerous to consider re-organization during a Council Meeting and that finding efficiencies requires more time for a thorough review. Mr. Shepherd maintained that the issues have been discussed in a public forum and responses provided by the adminstration. 07:26:45 A-M/S/F (Shepherd/Runyon) Move to amend the Proposed 2009 Budget and related Ordinance No. 5071 to reflect the elimination of the Assistant Fire Chief position; and further amend the 2009 Budget to authorize the City Financial Services Director to include the additional expenses to carry out that action. Voted in favor of the Motion: Runyon, Shepherd Voted against the Motion: McConnell, Brockus, Robinson, Arends, Wofford, Gehring, Maupin Amending Motion Failed: 2-Yes;7-No 07:27:35 Amending Motion was made and seconded.... City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes Wednesday, December 3,2008 Page 5 of 9 President Maupin re-opened the public hearing for public comments. With no comments, the public hearing was closed and discussion by Council Members continued... Mr. Runyon expressed concerns over increased number of cases filed with no increase in staffing. Mr. Brockus asked why a Legal Technician is needed. Jud~e Docter explained that criminal and traffic infraction filings have been increasing at a substantial rate in the past few years and the new photo enforcement program has added to the workload. There are other costs involved such as defendants needing intrepetors or defendants asking for a jury trial. Mr. Brockus asked what the impact would be if the amendment is not passed. JudQe Docter answered that he can not continue to meet the people's demands if the workload continues at the going rate. Also, the courts budget can not be cut any further, and yet demands for service continue to rise. Mr. Gehrin~ supported permanent staff over temporary staff. However, was concerned at where the money would come from to fund a new position. Theresa Ewin~ discussed turnover of 3 temporaries in 7 months, that she is spending time helping citizens, and that staff have a difficult time taking vacation due to workload and backlog. Mr. McConnell asked where the approximate $36,000 would come from to support this amendment. Ms. Lyon answered that the funds would either come from another department or the ending fund balance; and stated that the position would cost $35,520. Ms. Robinson asked if there are any other areas where the funding could come from. Ms. Lyon answered no, and there has already been extensive review done to make decisions on where service cuts needed to be made. Any new positions will most likely be funded from more service cuts or reduction in staff. Mr. Shepherd believed that courts offer services that are needed; and believed that adminstration should locate the funds for this position. Mr. Maupin agreed with Mr. McConnell's comments on funding the permanent position without the reserve amount for extra help. Ms. Lyon answered that if the position were funded only then the net cost for the position would be $10,520. Mrs. Arends asked if the City has ever considered the possibility of contracting out for this position since other cities may be doing so. Mr. BaQwell answered that a professional services agreement could be entered into for that position; but no cost analysis has been done. Mr. GehrinQ believed if funds are or may be available in the future, then this should be a priority. Mr. Brockus emphasized that when the City is more vigilent the results include more case workload for courts so the City should look ahead when implementing future programs. Mr. Wofford asked if hiring a full time employee, 2 temps, and ~ time position would help with efficiency. JudQe Docter answered that they would like to exchage the Redflux temporary employee for a full-time employee; and emphasized that he did not overestimate need when making this request. Mr. Runyon encouraged the Council to support this amendment. 08:02:55 A-M/S/C (Runyon/Robinson) Move to amend Ordinance No. 5071 (the Bremerton City 2009 Budget) to replace one existing authorized temporary Court Counter Clerk with a full-time permanent Legal Technician at pay band G8A; and retain $25,000 for a part-time temporary counter clerk. City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes Wednesday, December 3, 2008 Page 6 of 9 Voted in favor of the Motion: Brockus, Runyon, Shepherd, Robinson, Wofford, McConnell Voted against the motion: Arends, Gehring, Maupin Amending Motion carried; 6-Yes; 3-No 8:04:08 Amending Motion was made and seconded... President Maupin re-opened the public hearing for public comments... Charles Henderson (on behalf of Ron Sher), emphasized that Gary Sexton was responsible in bringing businesses to downtown Bremerton which will ultimately bring in sales tax revenue and indirect economic impact. Mayor Bozeman believed that the only way cities survive is through economic commerce; firmly stated that Gary Sexton has brought in millions; and emphasized that eliminating that position is ill advised. Mr. Shepherd stated that basic services and priorities must be supported. Mr. Runyon emphasized that we must help existing businesses in addition to bringing in new businesses. There are other organizations such as KEDA, KCCDC, and OC Small Business Center that are involved in economic development. Mr. McConnell believed that economic development should benefit the entire city not just one area. He expressed concerns about project cost overruns and that the projects lack oversight. Mrs. Arends believed that projects are nearing completion and need a project administrator who can get this work done. If we do not ackowledge the need for economic development, we would be shortsighted; and asked if there are any staff available in Public Works to manage new projects. Phil Williams answered no. Mr. Wofford stated that what is important is the work done behind the development of the projects; also found it interesting that streets are a priority and yet funding has not been isolated for those needed projects. Mr. GehrinQ believed we should increase the scope of economic development efforts. Ms. Robinson hoped for clarification on the position's role, agreed that redevelopment should be city wide; and asked if Public Works can support this project. Mayor Bozeman said that there is no one else besides Gary Sexton who is seeking project funding; and that no one in Public Works Department is available to seek funding. Mrs. Arends added that construction projects brings in revenue too. Mr. Maupin summarized that the project title was changed recently to reflect that he is more involved in redevelopment projects rather than economic development, but his duties do include some economic development work. 08:33:45 A-M/S/F (Shepherd, Runyon) Move to amend the Proposed 2009 Budget related to Ordinance No. 5071 to refled the elimination of the Redevelopment Projects Administrator position; and further amend the 2009 Budget to authorize the City Financial Services Director to increase the additional expenses necessary to carry out that action; and further transfer the Redevelopment Project Assistant to Public Works to support the existing project work. City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes Wednesday, December 3,2008 Page 7 of 9 Voted in favor of the Motion: Runyon, Shepherd, Robinson Voted against the Motion: Arends, Wofford, Gehring, McCoriell, Brockus, Maupin Amending Motion Failed: 3-Yes; 6-No 08:34:31 Amending Motion was made and seconded... President Maupin re-opened the public hearing for public comments. With no public comments, discussion by Council Members continued... Mr. Brockus asked how many children were served by the program. Mr. Birkenthal answered that even if sites were reduced that the School District can make up the difference if the program were discontinued. Approximately 30 children per site are served lunch. Mr. McConnell asked how many children are city residents. Mr. Birkenthal answered that this is a drop-in program and no documentation is required. Ms. Robinson believed that this is an outstanding program and the city should provide funding. Mr. Runyon asked if schools provide the meals and who received those meals. Mr. Birkenthal answered yes and those meals are provided to low income children. Mr. Shepherd provided testimony on one student who benefited from the program and later became a volunteer. Mrs. Arends supported this amendment; hoped the public, businesses, and civic groups would offer support towards this program to help the youth; and recommended that the City communicate with Olympic College to arrange for possible volunteers. Mayor Bozeman indicated that Boys and Girls Club has supported this program. Mr. GehrinQ agreed that this is a worthwhile program but believed that the City should look at financial responsibility and needs. Ms. Robinson asked if this funding were approved would the Mataan Park site be included as part of the program. Mr. Birkenthal answered that is possible. Mr. Maupin asked if we received contributions, could the funding be put back into the budget. Ms. Lyon stated that the City could seek contributions, but that it would be risky to include those funds not yet received on the revenue side of the budget. 08:52:50 A-M/S/C (Shepherd/ Runyon) Move to increase the Playground Express Program authorization by $12,000. Voted in favor of the Motion: Shepherd, Robinson, Arends, McConnell, Brockus, Runyon Voted against the Motion: Wofford, Gehring, Maupin Amending Motion Carried: 6-Yes; 3-No 8:53:40 Amending Motion was made and seconded... President Maupin re-opened the public hearing for public comments. With no public comments, discussion by Council Members continued... Mr. Maupin asked what financial impact this change would have on the City. Ms. Lyon answered that funding would be taken away for capital projects such as Parks Development $200,000, $150,000 for Harborside Park and Commons, and $105,000 for the Boardwalk. Mr. Williams stated that if the Streets Department were to receive increased funding, then Public Works would pursue some paving projects in 2009. City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes Wednesday, December 3, 2008 Page 8 of 9 Mr. Brockus asked if money were taken from the boardwalk, what then? Mr. Williams stated that next year permit work was scheduled to be done. Any funds taken away will mean Public Works will have to secure another source of funding to continue the process. Gary Sexton was concerned that the financial impact would not be to the Harborside project but to investors like Ron Sher. Mr. Birkenthal stated that the REET funds are used to match grant contributions for Lions Park renovation, Blueberry Park redevelopment; and projects at Kiwanis Park and Warren Avenue Playfield. Mike Shepherd had asked for detail prior to the meeting. Ms. Lyon clarified that the impacts were discussed at the November 18 budget workshop, but unfortunately Mr. Shepherd was absent. Ms. Arends did not support this amendment. Mr. Runyon hoped that Council would consider that infrastructure is deteriorating and that streets are one of the Council's own priorities. Mr. GehrinQ reiterated that we need to support our core responsibilities. Mr. McConnell asked how funding would impact Public Works; and continued to state that he could not support this amendment. Mr. Williams answered that currently, 2 staff have been moved around given less street work is being done. However, if Public Works were to receive funding then staffing would need to be restored. Mr. Maupin did not support placing construction funds in one pot. Mr. Shepherd stated that REET funding looks tied up next year and that Council should consider capital projects during next year's budget development. 09:16:40 A-M/S/F (Runyon/Robinson) Move to amend Ordinance 5071, Bremerton City 2009 Budget, to transfer all Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) funding received by the City over the $210,000 obligated to the Government Center Debt Service to the Streets Fund. Voted in favor of the Motion: Robinson, Brockus Voted against the Motion: Arends, Wofford, Gehring, McConnell, Runyon, Shepherd, Maupin Amending Motion Failed: 2-Yes; 7-No Council Members then discussed the Main Motion... Mr. Brockus asked for clarification on bumping with respect to employees Annie Hensel and Hillary Hamilton who spoke earlier. Mr. Williams summarized that union contracts extended probationary periods from 6 months to one year and both employees are still within their probationary period. Probationary employees are not entitled to be on a "call back" list but that this request is not unreasonable. Ms. Conley responded that bumping can be negotiated as part of the contract process. However, the City can not take action tonight regarding 2 positions. The proper venue would be to negotiate with the Teamsters. Mr. Runyon was satisfied with the results of the discussion tonight. Mr. Shepherd stated that we may be looking at budget amendments in 6 months. Mr. Maupin emphasized that the really hard work was done by staff in the last 5 months to make up the $4.4 million shortfall. Mr. GehrinQ was concerned about spending money that we do not have. City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes Wednesday, December 3,2008 Page 9 of 9 09:25:48 M/S/C/U (Arends/Wofford) Move to approve Ordinance No. 5071 adopting the City of Bremerton 2009 Annual Budget as amended. COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS Brad GehrinQ congratulated Char Burnette and Laura Lyon on the new BKA T studio; and encouraged people to attend the Winter Warmer Food Drive on December 6. Adam Brockus announced that ~eniors Uncovering Money ~olutions (SUM$) will be holding a Holiday Bake Sale on Monday, December 8 from 9:00 AM to 3:00 at the Bremerton Senior Center 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at 1140 Nipsic Avenue. For more information, please contact the Parks Department at (360) 473-5357; and invited people to attend Winterfest on Friday, December 5. Roy Runyon mentioned that he volunteered with his wife in serving food at Bremerton Food Line before Thanksgiving. Nick Wofford thanked Laura Lyon and Finance staff for their hard work on the budget. With no further business, President Maupin adjourned the Council Meeting at 9:28 PM. Prepared and Submitted by: a.~- ~ CHRISTINE GR~IER Council Assistant Attest: resident WM:CE:ls:cg