HomeMy WebLinkAbout09/01/2010 �� I�UUUCl���,
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CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES � �"'��1��'�V'
Wednesday, September 1, 2010 SI�P 1� 20��
The weekly meeting of the City Council of the City of Bremerton �was called to order Wednesday,
September 1, 2010, at 5:00 PM in Council Conference Room 603 th@ NORM DICKS GOVERNMENT
CENTER 345 6` Street, Bremerton, Washington, with Council President Nick Wofford presiding. Council
Members present were Will Maupin, Carol Arends, Dianne Robinson, Greg Wheeler, Roy Runyon,
Adam Brockus, Cecil McConnell and Jim McDonald. Also present were City Attorney Roger Lubovich;
City Clerk Carol Etgen; and Council Assistant Christine Grenier.
A CourvC�� BRiEF�N� was then held to discuss General Council Business at 5:00 PM in the Council
Conference Room. At 5:30 PM the meeting moved to the Meeting Chambers.
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Council Member Jim McDonald followed by the invocation
provided by Pastor Ric Glomstad of Sylvan Way Baptist Church. �
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MAYOR'S REPORT Mayor Patty Lent...
• Was a speaker today at a Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) No. 239 event;
• Presented a Mayor's Recognition Award to U.S. Navy Shipmen Eric Maroon and Clinton Winslow
for their excellent work and helping the community; Fire Chief AI Duke commended them for their
assistance in putting out a residential cooking fire and for helping residents by keeping damage to a
minimum; �
• Attended the dedication and grand re-opening of Bachman Park last week; presented a Mayor's
Recognition Award to the East Side Rotary for their work and contribution to the project; and added
that the park is now wheelchair accessible;
• Announced that the first project for the `Beautify Bremerton' campaign will be done by volunteers
from Benedict House on September 9 between 6` and 11 Street in the vicinity of Our Lady Star of
the Sea Church;
• Encouraged people to attend the Blackberry Festival from Saturday, September 4 to Monday,
September 6;
• Invited the public to attend the Women's Suffrage Celebration at Silverdale Beach Hotel on
Saturday, September 10;
• Announced that the Steel Beams for the 9-11 Memorial will be available for viewing on Saturday,
September 11 at Evergreen Rotary Park from 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM and a barbeque will begin at
Noon; and
� Cautioned drivers that school is now back in session and asked people to be careful for the children.
PUBLIC RECOGNITION & ANNOUNCEMENTS
Douq Mclntvre, Community Development Block Grant Program, announced that the 30-day comment
period for the CDBG Consolidated Plan has began; and that opportunities for public comments will be
considered at a KRCC Public Hearing on November 2 and City Council Public Hearing on November 3.
Jack Stanfill reiterated his concerns from the August 18 Council Meeting about potential watershed
contamination from the Ueland Tree Farm. Will Maupin mentioned that the project is�not located in the
City, does not drain into the watershed, and encouraged him to speak to JoAnn Vidinhar, Interim DCD
Director for more information.
Katrina Fulkerson, Kitsap YMCA, announced that the YMCA will have an Open House on September 4
from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM; and that their hours on Labor Day will be from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Other
events during September include Splash and Jam as well as Teen Night.
City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Page 2 of 5
Patricia Zwick updated the Council on the urban chicken initiative which has received over 500
signatures; and announced that the group will be at Bremerton High School football games and at
Blackberry Festival obtaining more signatures.
Joseph Paul expressed frustration over the chronic escalating criminal element and behavior at and �
around the Fuzzy Navel Tavern and his own neighborhood located at Naval Avenue & 5` Street.
CONSENT AGENDA
A. Correction to August 18, 2010 Check Register: Check Numbers 339057 through 339313 in the
amount of $1,415,195.41; Check Numbers 339314 through 339467; and EFT-10134 through EFT-
10176 in the amount of $2,284,168.38; Retiree Payroll in the amount of $79,078.99 for the pay
period ending August 31, 2010; and Regular Payroll (pay-outs) in the amount of $102,922.47 for the
pay period ending June 30, 2010.
B. Minutes of Meeting — August 18, 2010
C. Minutes of Study Session — August 25, 2010
D. Resolution No. 3121 approving the Garland Place Final Plat
E. Contract Award to JArvsEN, Itvc. for Construction of Wheaton Way/Schley Canyon Slope Repair
F. Ordinance No. 5120 amending Chapter 3.68 of the Bremerton Municipal Code (BMC) entitled
"Equipment Rental Reserve Fund"
r There were no questions or comments from the public...
05:54:48 M/S/C/U (Arends/Brockus) Move to approve the CotvsENT A�Erv�A as presented and
amended.
President Wofford was pleased that the contract award to JANSEN, Irvc. is far less than the engineer's
estimate so the City will realize savings from this decision; and that Wheaton Way will finally be repaired.
GENERAL BUSINESS
6A — CONCESSION AGREEMENT WITH PIERCE COUNTY-KITSAP YMCA FOR MANAGEMENT
AND OPERATION OF THE GLENN JARSTAD AQUATIC CENTER: Wvn Birkenthal, Parks and
Recreation Director, explained that the attached agreement facilitates YMCA management and
operation of the Glenn Jarstad Aquatic Center. The operation of Jarstad Pool has been subsidized by
the City at an annual cost ranging from $150,000 to $200,000 annually, not inclusive of periodic capital
improvements. Beginning in 2008 reductions to the Parks and Recreation budget and staffing resulting
from a slowing local and state economy have made it increasingly difficult to support Jarstad's operation
at historic levels. The YMCA which operates indoor swimming pools as part of the organizations core
recreation mission has offered to operate and maintain the facility with limited assistance from the City.
The YMCA agreement for pool management will provide continued swimming access and avoid the
impacts of facility closure to Bremerton residents.
Chris Warthen, Parks and Recreation Commission, explained that the board looked at all of the options
to keep the pool open and this seemed the best course for the City to take.
Bob Ecklund, President of Kitsap-Pierce County YMCA, emphasized that this is part of the YMCA's 20-
year plan; stated that construction in Silverdale will include two more pools to meet community demand;
added that education and access will ensure that kids will be healthy and less likely to drown; pointed out
that there are many partnerships possible through the YMCA and that the City will save about $200,000
each year by this arrangement; and any additional revenue will go back into the community.
Ron McMahon, Kitsap-Pierce County YMCA, stated that the overall goal is to promote water safety and
to keep the pool open to the community; addressed concerns raised about access by non-members
which included school assistance program for students or free vouchers for occasional users; discussed
City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Page 3 of 5
the transition from City management to YMCA management; and stated that there have been meetings
with current user groups like Bremerton High School to work out schedules.
Rav Knappio was concerned about the possible loss in public access to the YMCA; had a personal
need for the pool for long term physical therapy; and did not agree with payment options offered to
members.
Susan Jarstad Leavell recalled when the pool was named after Glenn Jarstad and the family activities
that have been held at the pool over the years; believed that there is a need for swim safety and
swimming for health; and emphasized the importance of keeping the pool open and supporting student
athletes and future Olympians.
Maraaret Dues did not want to lose a community pool; did not believe this issue was handled well; and
' that the cost being suggested for daily use is too high, especially for seniors.
Jav Wavans read a letter on behalf of Beckv Lorber who hoped that other groups would be given an
opportunity to address the many concerns about public access this agreement raises.
Yvonne Collins mentioned that she and her husband are long time swimmers but the senior rate at the
YMCA is twice the cost of swimming at the pool.
President Wofford then closed public comment...
06:29:15 Motion was made by Runyon and seconded by McDonald. Discussion by Council Members
then began...
Rov Runvon requested financial history on the pool and clarification on the costs of operating the pool
and potential savings by approving this agreement. Mr. Birkenthal explained that due to the economic
downturn, staffing since 2008 has been reduced from 28.0 to 19.5 FTE's, including cuts to
administration, golf course and pool staff. Also, capital improvement projects are being done only by
matches to grants and assistance from community groups like the Lions Club. The City currently incurs
$418,000 in expenses and receives revenues close to $200,000, so the pool is subsidized by taxpayers
at $218,000 per year. The City realizes approximately $196,000 in savings if the Council approves this
agreement.
Mr. Runvon asked if the Resource Conservation Manager (RCM) could identify other ways to save
money through this partnership, and if the City would be reimbursed. Mr. Birkenthal responded that
option has not been discussed yet. Mr. Runvon then asked about JAMA's proposal. Mr. Birkenthal
stated that JAMA had offered to manage the pool, and provided a pro-forma a few weeks ago. However,
leaving prices at current levels could not generate the revenue needed to cover pool expenses.
Adam Brockus was satisfied that his concerns regarding access to the pool by the Bremerton High
School swim team have been addressed. Mr. Birkenthal added that the YMCA will continue to work
with current users to keep access and use uninterrupted during the transition.
Greq Wheeler thanked Wyn and the Parks Commission for their long hours on this proposal; and
commented that a public-private partnership ensures that the pool stays open and that the City keeps its
revenues higher than its expenses; but was concerned that price changes may seriously impact seniors.
Mr. McMahon explained that the current senior rate for YMCA members is $38 per month which
includes access to the YMCA facility and the pool, and that there is hardship assistance available; and
added that the YMCA can make arrangements for users who do not make electronic payments. Mr.
Birkenthal stated that the current admission is $3 per use or punchcard reduced rate for the pool.
Cecil McConnell asked if there will be an hourly rate for swimmers. Mr. McMahon stated that the
YMCA has a daily rate, but not an hourly rate. Mr. McConnell asked how many people use the pool
and for clarification on agreement terms. Mr. Birkenthal answered that the pool is used by 150 people
City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Page 4 of 5
on a regular basis about twice per week or approximately 58,000 visits per year; and pointed out that the
YMCA needed a longer term to recoup costs since they will be absorbing some of the costs of
improvement.
Dianne Robinson asked why the City would have a person appointed to the YMCA Board. Mr.
Birkenthal answered that placing a Parks and Recreation Commission Member on the YMCA Board of
Directors would allow the City to monitor this partnership and agreement. Ms. Robinson then asked if a
timeline would be set for receiving financial reports. Mr. Birkenthal answered that is to be determined.
Ms. Robinson would like to see a reduced rate for seniors offered by the YMCA.
Jim McDonald believed that financial circumstances have forced the City to make tough choices;
appreciated the hard work done by parks staff; hoped that the City to find another funding mechanism to
support parks; and believed that concerns regarding access and pricing issues have been addressed;
and suggested that some groups and families may benefit from this arrangement. He asked if the City
is compensated for use of the pool by non-residents. Mr. Birkenthal stated that residents receive a
price break and non-residents pay a higher rate.
Carol Arends believed that the YMCA is a reputable organization that has done an excellent job in
providing programs to the community and this agreement would keep the pool open; and believed that
there are options for students and seniors to make the YMCA more affordable.
Will Maupin asked what the make-up of the board will be since the YMCA now includes Pierce County.
Mr. McMahon answered that each community, including Bremerton, has its own board to determine
rates and to discuss agreements like the one being discussed tonight. Mr. Maupin recognized that
many cities are trying to figure out how to keep pools open; and emphasized the importance of swim
lessons; was concerned that the taxpayers may not be getting value from the pool by agreeing to this
arrangement; but that delaying this decision may end up costing the City or could result in a pool closure
so he supported the agreement as a best course of action to take at this time.
Mr. Brockus asked for clarification on agreement renewal terms and expressed concerns about the
term length of the contract. Roqer Lubovich summarized that language was changed to address
concerns by basing the renewal on adequate insurance coverage much like the Ice Arena Concession
Agreement. Mr. Brockus asked if the YMCA would be willing to go back to the original language. Mr.
Ecklund emphasized that the YMCA will honor the provisions of the agreement and would not accept
earlier language; encouraged Council to keep in mind that funds from other facilities are being moved to
operate this pool; emphasized that if this agreement does not pass, then the pool will be closed; added
that 1 in 7 people at the YMCA receive financial assistance, and that the YMCA is open to working with
people to ensure access.
07:23:32 Motion to Continue/S/F (Brockus/Robinson) Move to continue the item to a date certain
September 8, 2010 for a Special Meeting.
Voted in favor of Motion: McConnell, Brockus, Robinson
Voted against the Motion: Runyon, Wheeler, Arends, Maupin, McDonald, Wofford
Motion to Continue failed; 3-Yes; 6-No
07:24:52 M/S/C/U (Runyon/McDonald) Move to enter into the Concession Agreement with the Pierce-
Kitsap YMCA for management and operation of Jarstad Aquatic Center; and authorize the Mayor to
finalize and execute the agreement with substantially the same terms and conditions as presented.
Voted in favor of Motion: Runyon, Wheeler, Robinson, Arends, Maupin, McDonald, Wofford
Voted opposed to Motion: Brockus, McConnell
Motion carried: 7-Yes; 2-No
City Council Reg. Mtg. Minutes
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Page 5 of 5
President Wofford recessed the meeting from 7:25 to 7:29 PM...
COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS
Jim McDonald attended the ribbon cutting ceremony with Greg Wheeler for Bachman Park and
commended the East Side Rotary for a great job; congratulated Larry Matel, Engineer for being
recognized in a national engineering magazine; and mentioned that he recently moved his mother to
Canterbury Manor.
Adam Brockus added that the City being recognized in the `Civil Engineering' magazine is a big deal;
encouraged people to view the Steel Beams and attend Manette Fest; and announced that the Manette
Bridge will be closed starting tomorrow.
Rov Runvon announced that the Blackberry Festival will be held Saturday, September 4 from 10:00 AM
to 7:00 PM; Sunday, September 5 from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM; and Monday, September 6 from 10:00 AM
to 5:00 PM; and that events will include the Annual Fly-In at Bremerton Airport, Chalk Art Contest, and
Fun Runs; and there will be 100 vendor booths and 9 bands. The events are sponsored by the Main
Stream Association and for more information, please visit www.blackberrvfestival.orq or contact (360)
377-3041.
Greq Wheeler would be serving blackberry pie with his wife Sunny at the Blackberry Festival on
Saturday; mentioned that when hosting Anumi, a Japanese exchange student, one of the special
moments was when she received a ceremonial blanket during a Chief Sealth Celebration; and lastly,
mentioned his attendance at the Bachman Park opening and the graduation ceremony for AmeriCorps.
Carol Arends looked forward to the Blackberry Festival this weekend... and especially the pie!
Will Maupin mentioned that he moved his mother-in-law Elsa Domstad into Belmont Terrace this week.
Nick Wofford encouraged the public to attend the first Friday Artwalk activities; and again urged citizens
to volunteer for local organizations and/or to help in cleaning up the city.
With no further business, President Wofford adjourned the Council Meeting at 7:36 PM.
Prepared and Submitted by:
_ �
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CHRISTINE GRENIER
Council Assistant
Attest:
CAROL E , City lerk
NI FFOR , ity Co esident
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