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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Meeting - Council - Minutes - 05/01/1990 Kent, Washington May 1, 1990 Regular meeting of the Kent City Council was called to order at 7 : 00 p.m. by Mayor Kelleher. Present: Councilmembers Dowell, Johnson, Orr and White, City Administrator Chow, City Attorney Driscoll, Planning Director Harris, Public Works Director Wickstrom, Police Chief Frederiksen, Fire Chief Angelo, Assistant City Administrator Hansen, Finance Director McCarthy, Information Services Director Spang, Personnel Director Olson and Parks Director Wilson. Councilmembers Houser, Mann and Woods were not in attendance. Approximately 75 people attended the meeting. PROCLAMATIONS (PROCLAMATIONS - ITEM 1B) Physical Fitness and Sports Month. The Mayor read a proclamation declaring the month of May, 1990 as Physical Fitness and Sports Month in the City. He noted that Kent Parks and Recreation has initiated fitness programs designed to improve our quality of life, and presented the proclamation to Parks Director Wilson. (PROCLAMATIONS - ITEM 1C) Public Service Recognition Week. Mayor Kelleher noted the public employees and volunteers have made great contributions to this society in health care, education, crime prevention, fire protection, conservation and national defense and declared May 7 - 11, 1990 as Public Service Recognition Week. (PROCLAMATIONS - ITEM 1D) Correctional Officer Week. The Mayor noted that the City of Kent wishes to honor the valor, service and dedication of its Corrections Officers and declared May 7 - 13 , 1990 as Correctional Officer Week. He urged all citizens to visit the Kent Corrections Facility. He then presented the proclamation to Chief Frederiksen and Capt. Byerly. (PROCLAMATIONS - ITEM 1E) Sexual Assault Awareness Week. Mayor Kelleher noted that the King County Sexual Assault Resource Center aims to increase the awareness of services available to victims of sexual assault, their families, and others in the City, and proclaimed the week of April 22 - 28, 1990 as Sexual Assault Awareness Week in the City of Kent. He noted that the proclamation was requested belatedly and was approved after the fact. 1 May 1, 1990 PRESENTATIONS (PRESENTATIONS - ITEM 1A) Employee of the Month. Mayor Kelleher introduced Robert A. Johnson who has been selected as the Employee of the Month for May. The Mayor noted that Mr. Johnson is a Lieutenant in the Fire Department and has been with the City over 20 years. He noted that in addition to the duties of his position, Mr. Johnson is in charge of the small power equipment maintenance and repair program. Chief Angelo commended Mr. Johnson for his humble and sincere attitude and noted that he truly lives by the "Kent Cares" philosophy. (PRESENTATIONS - ITEM 1F) International Basketball Competition and Cultural Exchange. Mayor Kelleher announced that two Kent- Meridian basketball players, Paul Polk and Bill Thomas, have been invited to participate in an International Basketball Competition and Cultural Exchange sponsored by the Washington Cultural Exchange this summer in Hong Kong. Paul Polk stated that he is looking forward to representing the U.S.A. in this competition. The Mayor noted that the cost of the 11-day trip will be $1895 and welcomed donations by interested citizens. (PRESENTATIONS - ITEM 1H) Growth Management Act. Mayor Kelleher noted that on April 22 , 1990 (Earth Day) , Governor Booth Gardner signed into law the Growth Management Act of 1990, which is the single most important piece of land use planning legislation in Washington State since 1970 when the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) was enacted. The Mayor noted that the Act mandates that the City adopt a comprehensive land use plan and a transportation plan that are compatible with one another. It requires that the City adopt a public facilities plan that is consistent with the comprehensive land use plan, and that the City specify the means for paying for the public facilities. It also requires that the City coordinate with the County and neighboring cities to ensure compatibility between regional and local goals. He noted that it has always been the goal of this administration to bring the land use plan into conformance with the transportation plan and other plans for the delivery of other critical city 2 May 1, 1990 PRESENTATIONS services. He stated that the challenge has been to limit the growth while simultaneously expanding city Growth services necessary to accommodate the growth that we Management feel is appropriate and beneficial in the community. Act The Mayor pointed out that the Growth Management Act allows the City to collect fees and levy taxes to help pay for the costs of needed public facilities. Impact fees for roads, parks, city fire facilities and school facilities may be collected from developers. Also, the Act authorizes an increase in the real estate excise tax to help pay for the development of public capital facilities. He then outlined several actions the administration will take on behalf of the City: 1. The Mayor will appoint a special committee on the issue of urban growth, charged with developing an Urban Growth Program. 2 . The Mayor will appoint a committee to search for funding mechanisms for the development of additional infrastructure and address the issue of impact fees for development. 3 . The Mayor will direct the City's Planning and Public Works Departments to review and evaluate the Comprehensive Land Use Plan and Transportation Plan in light of the recent growth management legislation. Mayor Kelleher then stated that he and the Council support providing for new fire stations, acquisition and development of new parks and recreational areas, and providing for more roads. CONSENT WHITE MOVED that Consent Calendar Items A through H CALENDAR be approved with the exception of Item G which was removed by City Attorney Driscoll. Dowell seconded and the motion carried. MINUTES (CONSENT CALENDAR - ITEM 3A) _Approval of Minutes. APPROVAL of the minutes of the Council meeting of April 17, 1990. 3 May 1, 1990 HEALTH AND (CONSENT CALENDAR - ITEM 3F) SANITATION Kent Mini Storage (Chris Leady Short Plat) . ACCEPTANCE of the bill of sale and warranty agreement submitted by Chris Leady for continuous operation and maintenance of approximately 60 ft. of water main extension and 340 ft. of sanitary sewer main extension constructed in the vicinity of 108th Ave. S.E. and S.E. 240th St. for the Kent Mini Storage facility and release of cash bond after expiration of the one year maintenance period. STREET VACATION (CONSENT CALENDAR - ITEM 3C) Anderson Street Vacation. ADOPTION of Ordinance No. 2922 vacating a portion of West Valley Highway north of South 238th Street and south of South 234th Street. STREET USE (CONSENT CALENDAR - ITEM 3G) REMOVED BY CITY ATTORNEY DRISCOLL Cornucopia Days. APPROVAL of Ordinance No. 2923 has been proposed, granting a street use permit to Kent Lions Club for Kent Cornucopia Days. The City Attorney noted that the ordinance differs from previous Cornucopia Days ordinances in that it lists the streets on which two hour parking restrictions are eliminated during Cornucopia Days, and it provides for handicap parking spaces. JOHNSON MOVED for approval of Ordinance 2923 , Orr seconded and the motion carried. PRELIMINARY (OTHER BUSINESS - ITEM 4A) SUBDIVISION Garrison Creek II Preliminary Subdivision SU-90-1. This meeting will consider the Hearing Examiner' s recommendation of conditional approval of an application by Baima & Holmberg, Inc. for an eight lot single family residential preliminary subdivision. The property is approximately 4 . 6 acres in size and is located on the south side of S. 218th St. and abuts proposed 95th P1. S . Upon White's question, Harris noted that the current zoning is R1-20, and that it will not be changed. JOHNSON MOVED to accept the findings of the Hearing Examiner and to concur with the Hearing Examiner's recommendation of approval of Garrison Creek II Preliminary Subdivision No. SU-90-1 with seven conditions. Orr seconded and the motion carried. 4 May 1, 1990 NIKE MANOR (OTHER BUSINESS - ADDED ITEM 4G) HOUSING Military Surplus. Floyd T. Bacon, 24311 35th Ave. S. , stated that residents of West Hill had recently learned that the military would be abandoning the Midway Nike Housing by August 15, 1990. He asked about who would be moving in and if the City would look out for the interests of residents of the area. Mayor Kelleher responded by saying the Federal Government is the landlord of the property and the law states that when military housing is surplused the Federal Government must make that housing available to the homeless or for transitional housing. The Housing Authority, the South King County Multi-Service Center and Highline West Seattle Mental Health Group have made a joint application for the property after receiving notice from the government. He noted that the City has input such as land use planning and regulatory authority over such things as traffic regulations, etc. Bacon stated that the City should assist in eliminating the possibility of transient families or mental health patients. Kelleher noted that although a joint application had been prepared, no award has been made. White and Johnson noted it was the first time they had heard of this and wanted clarification as to what was actually taking place. Upon White's question, Bacon said he knew about it just last Wednesday (April 25, 1990) . Bacon expressed a great concern about the property and wants the Council ' s help. He gave his phone number 825-5572 . He again expressed concern over future developments of the property. Dave Lavine, 2906 38th Ave. So. , questioned who was going to decide on who gets the housing and on what basis, and whether or not the citizens have any input. He questioned why the Mayor did not inform the citizens of this action. Mayor Kelleher indicated that about a year ago, notifications came out in the newspapers. As late as just a few weeks ago, there was no reasonable certainty that Nike Manor was going to be closed. Lake Youngs and Nike Manor were the two parcels involved. The Coast Guard took over the Lake Youngs property and as yet, 5 May 1, 1990 NIKE MANOR the agencies do not have control of the Nike Manor HOUSING since the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will be making the final decision on the property. Don Knapp, 25046 38th Ave. So. , expressed concern over the lack of sharing of information with the citizens. Mayor Kelleher explained to Anne Biteman that this was not a bidding process and the Federal Government has the right to use the property but if they do not it must be made available for the homeless or transitional housing. None of the agencies would be able to use it unless the Federal Government turned it down first. The price would probably be $1. 00 per unit, but this is not yet certain. A man from the audience said this situation could be in effect for 5 years, according to the Corps of Engineers. Gene Mann, 24427 35th Ave. So. , asked how the citizens could have a voice in the process. Mayor Kelleher said he could go to the Federal Government, the agencies and the city and request they not make it available for this purpose. Planning Director Harris said the units were zoned Single Family Residence and per the zoning code, . the City usually does not get involved in what kinds of families move into that type of housing. Harris stated that the Fair Housing Amendment Act of 1989, which went into effect last year, states that those individuals with mental impairment cannot be discriminated against in housing. The agencies will deal with those people as the City cannot get involved with that situation, but will look at it very carefully on threshold situations. Upon Mann's question, Mayor Kelleher said the citizens could ask the City Council to do what you wanted them to do, or ask the agencies the same. The Mayor determined that a notice came from the federal government to all agencies which provide homeless assistance and these agencies sent in letters expressing their interest in possibly getting something for a dollar a year. The three agencies mentioned tonight decided to join forces with a joint application 6 May 1, 1990 NIKE MANOR instead of competing. He noted further that an HOUSING application has not gone in yet so you could go to these agencies and ask them to not submit an application, to not apply for certain uses. Harris clarified for Mayor Kelleher that these are 32 homes zoned for single family residential and the City would be involved only under certain circumstances such as a group home or a half way house. Dave Lavine said the citizens were just now recovering from the Midway Landfill crisis and are putting money back into their houses and yards. They fear the consequences if transients or people with mental disturbances are moved into the neighborhood. He complained of poor policing now. Leon Adams, 4401 35th Ave. So. , stated that the citizens should have been advised of the plans for the military housing and now wants the City to go to the agencies and get more information. Mayor Kelleher responded that when this was originally announced, they had no reason to believe that any concrete decisions had been made by the Federal Government. When they made early inquiries, they could not get an answer and as late as just a couple of weeks ago, they didn't know the units were going to be surplused, and even now, an application has not even been submitted for the units, let alone a decision saying the units would be available. Mayor Kelleher said the agencies involved have not had a lot of information themselves. They haven't been able to come and say something is going to be surplused, because they haven't known it. Upon Adams question, Mayor Kelleher said they have his commitment from here on forward to keep the citizens informed. White requested the Mayor to give the councilmembers a briefing in the future as to what his knowledge is regarding property procurement for the Housing Authority. Orr suggested that the agencies involved keep the Council aware of the process by advising them as to 7 May 1, 1990 NIKE MANOR the progress in the application process. Adams gave HOUSING his phone number, 824-9872 . Mayor Kelleher asked for the clerk to circulate paper and pen to collect names and addresses of those who wish to receive news on this issue. A man from the audience opined that the best way was to work with the Mayor and the City, not with the agencies and said that people had stated that they would move if a mental health agency located people in some of these homes. Jerry Perez , Associate Director for Highline Mental Health Center, said he was concerned too and would be happy to meet with some residents; not in lieu of meetings with the Council, but wanted it known they were available. Their tentative plan is to use some of the housing in the Nike project for homeless people who were mentally ill. They currently have 3 HUD 202 apartment buildings and 7 houses in the west part of King County with about 65 clients housed, all whom have been screened. They are the kind of people who are living in your community now, and our plan is to provide services, so that you don't have to worry about the upkeep of the property or the behavior of the clients. We make an extra effort to work with the community and with the clients who are being placed. Currently, there are a number of elderly clients who are living in the south part of the county for whom we are responsible. They're living in nursing homes because they have nowhere to live and we propose to provide housing for some of these people. We, as the mental health agency, provide training, we screen those people, we provide case management on a daily and weekly basis. We're on 24-hour call for emergencies that might come up and we work with the community. With the existing seven houses scattered throughout the south part of the county, we have run into virtually no problems. Perez clarified for Bacon that his clients would have freedom to come and go, including at night. He noted that those needing constant supervision, either medical or mental, would not be candidates for this housing. Upon a question from the audience 8 May 1, 1990 NIKE MANOR about a 5 year limit, Perez stated that he would HOUSING like to see his program go for as long-term as possible. Upon further questions, it was determined that Perez started his application 2 or 3 months ago and that the agencies got together 2 or 3 weeks ago to discuss a joint application. He noted that all agencies receive many flyers and this was the subject of such a flyer. He further clarified that no sexual offenders or felons are eligible for his program, that the program dealt mostly with the elderly. He conceded that there could be some young adults, learning to cook and the things necessary to live on their own. A real estate agent who lives across from the Nike housing stated that she first saw an article about this in the Federal Way News over a year ago in January, 1989. She stated she was not against the proposal but questioned the effect on property values. She stated she would not be able to sell a house in the area if it was known that a mental health facility was in the area. Dowell stated he hadn't heard of this before tonight and pointed out that the City has a Human Services Commission and he had seen nothing in their reports about this proposal. He noted that Sharon Atkin of the King County Multi-Service Center, and present tonight, was on the Human Services Commission. Sharon Atkin noted that she was the Emergency Services Director for the South King County Multi- Service Center. She said she had heard over a year ago that this property might possibly be surplused, and then read it in the Tacoma paper, and it took a month to determine the process. The process was that the military was asked to list all property that would be suitable for the homeless, not necessarily available, but suitable. The property, in fact, at that time, was not available. The first indication that the property was available has been in the last 1 to 2 months, when a flyer was received from HUD, saying that this property would be surplused. The agency, of course, is interested in property that can be used for the homeless, to get them back into the mainstream of society and productive again in the community. The length of 9 May 1, 1990 NIKE MANOR the lease is not certain, but at a dollar a unit the HOUSING price is right. She has called the Corps of Engineers Property Disposition, HUD, Health and Human Services and nobody is trying to be evasive, but this is a new program and we're still in the process of trying to find out. The Center's intent for the property is for emergency and transitional housing. She noted that the agency's concern is that the housing stay in the same condition that it is at present, if not better. The agency works only with families and single individuals over the age of sixty. She further explained the needs of her clients and noted that she hoped they could have an on-site 24-hour resident manager who would live in one of the units to address any problems. She explained that they are now putting the application together, trying to figure out what agency is going to take responsibility for what piece of it, the cost involved and addressing the concerns of the neighbors. White asked how long Atkin had been aware that this property might be available. She stated that the first indication was about the date of the newspaper article, which was a year ago. At that time, she had no idea of when it might be available and could never get that information until recently. Upon questions from the audience, Atkin said she was present tonight because a staff member had heard that some people were going to be here at the meeting. Perez stated the Mayor had asked him to attend. Upon White' s question as to how long the Mayor had been aware that this property would be available, Kelleher stated that he had seen the newspaper article a year ago but could not get answers. A couple of months ago, he received a list of federal property which might become available. He pointed out that as recently as the last City Council meeting he was unaware for sure whether or not this property would be available. As yet, an application has not been submitted, let alone approved, so, even today, we don't have 100o assurance that this property will be granted to these agencies. 10 May 1, 1990 NIKE MANOR White stated that the Council has always been very HOUSING supportive of human service needs and although these agencies had knowledge, the Council was not advised. He said that the agencies would know this could be a volatile issue in the neighborhood and no one told the Council. Bacon asked if these agencies give any consideration to the neighborhood residents, or how will they be advised of future developments. He stated that other agencies had not done as good a job as the program described by Perez and Atkin. The residents want to know ahead of time what the plans are so they may voice their opinions. Cathy Pepper spoke about fear of crime and drugs in the schools. Atkin stated that homeless families are not criminals. She stated that "homeless" included a daughter and her children who can't afford a place of her own and has moved home with Mom. Or a son or daughter that has moved into somebody' s home or back into their parent' s home. She noted there were two levels: emergency housing and transitional housing and that some will be short-term and others long-term and could include people from your own community. Bacon asked about an ordinance to protect the interests of the homeowners in the area. Mayor Kelleher explained the process for ordinances and noted that it would probably have to deal with what kind of housing was permitted in certain zones. This might also cause some legal problems. At the Mayor' s suggestion, Bacon reiterated that he was informed by the Corps of Engineers that August the 15th is the cutoff date and that bids must be in between May and June. The military must be out by August 15th. White asked the City Attorney if we could pass an ordinance that says that we cannot put certain types of housing in certain zones, or must we go through the process of the community plan, in this case, the West Hill Plan. Driscoll stated that we would have to go through the process, depending on what is proposed, but generally we'd have to go through the process of either amending the Comp Plan, if that' s 11 i i May 1, 1990 NIKE MANOR necessary or, at the minimum, the zoning code, which HOUSING requires going to the Planning Commission first. Harris noted that the Planning Commission meets once a month and their next meeting will be on the 21st of May with a full agenda for that evening. He confirmed for White that hearings would be necessary and doubted that the City could prevent people from moving into single family housing. Harris noted further that a comprehensive plan change is an 18- month process. Orr noted that recently an application for a group home in the downtown area was rejected because of the type of inhabitants planned and proximity to schools and to other housing. It wasn't considered a suitable location for this purpose. She asked if the code had provisions which could be used to choose the type of people that move in, so that concerns about drug abusers, etc. could be i addressed. Harris noted that the Mayor has had a group homes committee working over the last year and that the Planning Commission will begin to work on this on May 21st. This may be a lengthy process because j other kinds of housing situations are also included. i Orr noted that she had read the report but wondered if we have anything in place now which would alleviate some of the concerns. Driscoll noted for Dowell that the City could not get an injunction since the City has no jurisdiction over what the Federal Government does with this j housing. She noted that probably the most feasible solution from a political standpoint would be for the Council to adopt a resolution and in the meantime make contacts with the Federal Government to see if the City can get more information. Driscoll noted for Dowell that she was not familiar with the regulations by which one might appeal actions of the Federal Government in this particular situation. The City does not have jurisdiction to prevent it but there may be processes for appeals. Dowell asked that a report be made on this. 12 i i II i ! May 1, 1990 NIKE MANOR Mayor Kelleher determined that a sign-up sheet had HOUSING been passed and signed by interested citizens. Assistant City Administrator Jim Hansen was designated to be the contact person. He will serve as the clearinghouse for information and will communicate with the public. It was determined for White that a resolution merely expresses Council intent and is not binding. I Bacon suggested that the City Attorney check to see if there is anything that a city can do in this situation. The Mayor asked Driscoll to include that with her answer to Dowell ' s inquiry. The information will be distributed to all. In answer to Mr. Lavine's question, White stated he would support the Mayor and would support using that housing for housing for senior citizens. Orr stated that she is currently serving on the Senior Housing Committee and would introduce this subject at next week' s meeting to see if the Senior Housing Committee has the opportunity to file some sort of application as well, and to explore the options. Ms. Atkin stated that in order for a senior to be eligible he would have to be homeless. Lavine stated he thought it didn't say seniors, it said homeless. It has to be available and suitable for the homeless. It was determined that if a senior was also homeless, he would qualify. ! Driscoll clarified for Lavine that we can't violate the federal or state laws against discrimination, and, we 'd still have to go through the same process that Mr. Harris outlined. ! White suggested that the City schedule a meeting at one of the schools in the Nike Manor area with the public to be notified and invited. This met with the approval of the audience and the Mayor stated he would instruct staff to schedule such a meeting. i I i I 13 i May 1, 1990 I I ECONOMIC (OTHER BUSINESS - ITEM 4B) DEVELOPMENT H & S Machine Works, Inc. The Kent Economic CORPORATION Development Corporation took official action to issue non-recourse revenue bonds for up to $850, 000 to provide funds for H & S Machine Works, Inc. It is necessary for the City of Kent to approve the Economic Development Corporation Resolution adopted on April 20, 1990. WHITE MOVED to adopt Resolution No. 1242 approving the Resolution of the Board of Directors of the City of Kent Economic Development Corporation adopted on April 20, 1990 as relates to the H & S Machine Works, Inc. Dowell seconded and the motion carried. (OTHER BUSINESS - ITEM 4C) Baer Family Partnership. The Kent Economic Development Corporation took official action to issue non-recourse revenue bonds for up to $3 million to provide funds for the Baer Family Partnership. It is necessary for the City of Kent to approve the Economic Development Corporation Resolution adopted on April 20, 1990. WHITE MOVED to adopt Resolution No. 1243 , approving the Resolution of the Board of Directors of the City of Kent Economic Development Corporation adopted on April 20, 1990 as relates to the Baer Family Partnership. Dowell seconded and the motion carried. APPOINTMENTS (CONSENT CALENDAR - ITEM 3H) Mayoral Appointments. CONFIRMATION of the Mayor's appointments as follows: Appointment of Midge Sweley to the Saturday Market Board to replace Bob Crisp, who resigned. This term will continue through May, 1992 . Reappointment of Laurel Whitehurst to the Library Board of Trustees. This five year term will expire in April, 1995. FIRE DEPT. (CONSENT CALENDAR - ITEM 3D) Sculpture at West Hill and North Industrial Fire Stations. APPROVAL of the selection of bronze sculpture by Larry Anderson for West Hill and North Industrial Fire Stations. Mr. Anderson' s work was selected by the jury from work submitted by four finalists in the competition. 14 i i i May 1, 1990 PERSONNEL (CONSENT CALENDAR - ITEM 3E) Golf Course Lead Greenskeeper Position. AUTHORIZATION of a full time position of Maintenance Worker II, at range 20. Because of a union contract, the Parks Department must reinstate a Lead Greenskeeper position. To fund the position, the Department would add a Maintenance Worker II position, because the Lead Greenskeeper position is currently being filled by a Maintenance Worker II . There will be no budget change, as the cost of the position will be covered by delaying the budgeted purchase of a tractor with loader until 1991. i PARKS AND (BIDS - ITEM 5A) RECREATION Golf Course Tractor with Loader/Backhoe. One bid was received for the Golf Course Tractor with Loader/Backhoe from Jennings Equipment, Inc. in the amount of $29, 081. 06. Staff recommends rejection of the bid, and that purchase of the tractor with loader/backhoe be deferred to the 1991 budget, as the bid exceeded the budgeted amount of $25, 000. DOWELL MOVED to reject the sole bid received from Jennings Equipment, Inc. , in the amount of $29, 081. 06, for the Tractor with Loader/Backhoe. White seconded and the motion carried. (OTHER BUSINESS - ITEM 4D) East Hill Park Acquisition. AUTHORIZATION is requested to purchase a five acre parcel located north of S.E. 248th in the vicinity of 109th Avenue S.E. , to develop an East Hill neighborhood park. This property is owned by Jack L. and Dorothy Jean Martin. DOWELL MOVED that the City purchase Tax Lot 241 in STR 20-22-05 for an East Hill Neighborhood Park in accordance with the purchase agreement entered into between the City and owner. Councilmember Orr noted that East Hill residents are very happy about this park and thanked Parks Director Wilson for his efforts. Mayor Kelleher commended Orr for her work on this issue. White seconded and the motion carried. (OTHER BUSINESS - ITEM 4E) Lake Fenwick Acquisition. AUTHORIZATION is requested to purchase one parcel of property on the east side of Lake Fenwick. This is included in the Lake Fenwick Trails project financed with the King 15 i j May 1, 1990 I i PARKS County Open Space Bond proceeds. This parcel, Tax Lot 9075, is owned by Diane Evans. It has been Lake Fenwick appraised for $19, 000, and the owner is willing to Acquisition sell for the appraised price. Parks Director Wilson noted that this is a very narrow lot which the trail will go through. DOWELL MOVED that the City purchase Tax Lot 9075 in STR 27-22-04 using the Open Space Bond Issue proceeds in accordance with the purchase agreement between the City and the owner. White seconded and the motion carried. (OTHER BUSINESS - ITEM 4F) Kent-Kherson Sister City Park. AUTHORIZATION is requested to establish a $50, 000 budget to develop the old City Hall site into Kent-Kherson Peace Park. The park will compliment the mural to be painted by Soviet Kherson artist Yegor Tolkunov who is due to arrive in Kent on May 17 . Volunteer labor and supervision will allow the park to be built for less than half of the cost of bidding the project. Parks Director Wilson showed a sketch of the proposed park, pointing out the stage in the back part of the cul-de-sac. He credited Sally Story and Wayne Hobbs for lining up volunteers and clarified for White that the $50, 000 will go for materials such as sodding and small trees and staging material. Driscoll stated she would research the bidding requirements for White. Orr said she and others were concerned about the expense and would like an accounting at the completion of the project. Wilson acknowledged that the trees, trash receptacles and the wood for the stage material is costly. Wilson noted that Kherson might want a special kind of tree and White pointed out that the bills were to be paid by Kent. Yvonne Nosler, owner of the Arney Building, present site of the Carnation mural, said that she thought the Carnation mural would be located where it would be visible as it is now. She then submitted a petition asking that the Carnation mural be restored and preserved on the Arney Building and not be moved. The petition was made a part of the record by motion. 16 May 1, 1990 PARKS Dowell pointed out that this item only concerns the park, the stage, landscaping, etc. , and does not Kent-Kherson allocate funds for a mural, as this was discussed at Sister City the last Council meeting. Nosler stated that the Park public was upset about not being notified. The Mayor stated that the matter of the mural could be discussed at a later meeting or referred to the Arts Commission or the Parks Committee. White said Council voted an appropriation for a new Carnation mural but has never voted on a Kherson mural. The Mayor said the Kherson mural was decided by a vote of the Arts Commission which has a budget for murals and has the authority to make such decisions under existing procedures. Ms. Tobin said she likes the Carnation mural where it is and pointed out that trees which were removed were not in the way of the mural. She stated that she and other artists would be willing to form an "adopt-a-mural" group and keep them up if paints were donated. A man from the audience objected to the fact that the nice mural on the Special Populations Center had been painted over. Pat Crockett, owner of the Creamery Building, said she would welcome having the Carnation mural on the east side or the north side of the building where it would not get sun-bleached. She advised the Council to avoid being rushed into making a decision regarding the location for the Kherson mural ; that the park could be built with the mural added next year. Yvonne Monk said she visits downtown and suggested putting the new mural at First Avenue Plaza leaving the Carnation mural intact. Neil Buholtz , an employee of Carnation Company, said this company had been founded in Kent some 90 years ago and they would like to be involved in the welfare of the mural. He favored not moving it. Assistant City Administrator Hansen showed a sketch of the proposed new library, north of the Creamery Building. He pointed out that if the Carnation mural were put on the north side of the Creamery Building it would be well-preserved and would be visible to the 500+ visitors a day to the library. Joanne Brady, Chairman of the Arts Commission, said the commission wants to move the Carnation mural because they feel that it will have a greater impact. She pointed out that one of the Arts Commission' s tasks is to preserve Kent' s history and Wilson said that in the future we would want the Carnation mural on the Carnation Building. 17 May 1, 1990 PARKS Upon questions about using the Blessing Building, Brady agreed this could be done and noted that the Kent-Kherson mural would have to be smaller if it was to be Sister City placed on the Creamery Building. Nossler stated she Park had met with Wilson but was not aware at that time how many people were unhappy about moving the mural. The Mayor reiterated that the question is whether or not to fund the Kherson Park, not whether to move the mural . It was determined that the Council could override decisions of the Arts Commission. Dowell noted that citizens should be encouraged to attend Arts Commission meetings and MOVED that a budget of $50, 000 be established for the development of Kent- Kherson Peace Park. White seconded. Motion carried. Wilson said he hopes people who signed the petition would meet with the Arts Commission to resolve the placement of the Carnation mural . He pointed out that we should move ahead because of the Goodwill Games and the visitors to Kent. The volunteers are hoping to have a June 2 "Volunteer Day" and build a park in a day. (OTHER BUSINESS - ITEM 4H) Golf Complex Merchandising. In March, the City issued a Request for Proposals for merchandising at the golf course. Seven proposals were received including one from the Parks Department. This item was originally scheduled for tonight ' s agenda, and was removed on Friday afternoon with a request that the process and the selection recommendation be further reviewed. The item was again added to the agenda tonight. Finance Director McCarthy has noted that the debt service is approximately one million dollars per year and he has analyzed the proposals to ensure maximum contributions toward this debt service. The Internal Budget Committee has consequently recommended that the proposal of the Parks Department be accepted, based on the figures presented by McCarthy. Wilson said last July he knew they would not be renewing the contract with the concessionaire at the driving range and started to make plans for getting someone else or for the city to do it. He stated that it was never proposed that private enterprise do anything other than merchandising. Wilson noted that McCarthy made a presentation to the Parks 18 May 1, 1990 PARKS Committee last Tuesday and two of the proposers questioned the Request for Proposals and resubmitted Golf Complex some numbers. Merchandising McCarthy said that none of the proposals provided income that matched what the Parks Department projected and he therefore did not extend the evaluation any further. The City is looking for a minimum guarantee and the Parks Department came back with $300, 000 and the others were lower than that. The original proposal was to look only at the concession and merchandising type business. The idea of putting the driving range, mini-putt and lessons into that program came up at the Parks Committee meeting. White asked when the modifications took place and at which committee meeting. McCarthy said Houser was sitting in for Johnson and she wanted some changes made to expand the proposal. He said he'd heard from golf people that they didn't feel the merchandising operation alone would be profitable and they would not bid on it unless the whole complex was included. McCarthy stated further that there was no discussion of a plan to give up the income from the driving range or mini-putt, but a proposal went out like that offering the proposers the opportunity to bid on one or more of the functions and all based their proposals on the entire package. White asked if we have gone through the normal Request for Proposals process and McCarthy said yes, and based on financial evaluation and amount generated for the City, he had recommended the Parks Department as the best proposal. Doug Schwab, Vice President of Men's Golf Club at Riverbend, voiced three areas of concern: quality of the driving range facility, the need to keep the course in top playing condition, and the need to hire a Class "A" golf professional. He questioned McCarthy' s recommendation, noting he had looked at only one criterion, which was a guaranteed figure to the city. He did not take into consideration experience or quality of service provided and no attempt was made to validate the expense or revenue figures. Schwab noted that no personal interviews 19 i May 1, 1990 PARKS were given to propo sers and that no expe rienced people were even involved in evaluating Requests for Golf Complex Proposals. He urged reject the jred the Merchandising budget committee' Council to re7 it was more s recommendation until fairly evaluated and suggested that a selection committee be formed including individuals with expertise in this area such as Ron Hoetmer from PGA who had offered to participate. Marty O'Brien, PGA golf professional, explained the requirements for golf pros, and noted that their promote the f goals are to prom game of gof , to Promote our business and to conduct tournaments. O'Brien stated for Dowell that the City should hire a Class "A" professional. Gary Johnson, of RGI (Riverbend Golf, Inc. ) said they have not adjusted their Request for Proposal and stand by the proposal that was presented initially. He stated that his team of professionals; banker, attorney, etc. could provide experienced management. He stated he had just discovered tonight that debt service on the revenue bonds is only $550, 000, but information was given that the total annual debt service is $1 million. This implies that the golf complex will be funded with general revenues of the City of Kent. He stated that he was unable to get past operating statements on the complex from its inception and referred to adjustments that were made to the Parks Department proposal by the Finance Department. Mr. Johnson stated that he forecasted sales from 27% to 150% higher than the other Request for Proposals. However, RGI was disqualified because this forecast was inconsistent with the other Requests for Proposals. He stated that he had projected merchandise sales which are very reasonable and that disqualifying was inappropriate. Mr. Johnson further stated that the Finance Department felt it was necessary to adjust the Parks Department proposal because of unrealistic expense level. The initial proposal showed the Parks Department with $325, 000 contribution which was characterized as being guaranteed. Johnson stated that the Council should not rely upon this if it is the taxpayer who is guaranteeing it. He stated that his guaranteed figure of $150, 000 was backed with private sector 20 i May 1, 1990 PARKS funds. He suggested the City get professional guidance in terms of what this project is likely to Golf Complex generate in cash flow with professional management p s to the debt service Merchandising and get clarification a obligations. Orr asked if people were told when the RFP was issued, that the bottom line was profit and McCarthy said he didn't think so. Gary Johnson said it is clear that that was not in the proposal, and they think the Request for Proposal was well done, but the decision was not based on the issues raised in the RFP. Ruth O'Brien stated she and husband Marty O'Brien, PGA Pro, had responded to the Request for Proposal and that the financial comparison is very misleading. She noted that the Parks Department has failed to allow any expenses for the normal costs of doing business, such as maintenance, repairs and depreciation. She noted that she then left these things out of the O'Brien proposal and the profit came out $8, 000 more than the Parks Department, as shown in McCarthy' s figures. She stated that O' Briens plan to finance this project with their own money and with financing through a bank but that the Parks Department proposes to finance with $300, 000 that they are borrowing from the City of Kent. The parks' proposal shows $9, 000 interest but does not show the '$300, 000 being paid back. She noted that the O' Briens are unable to spend money that they haven't earned, or spend what they think they might get. She asked that the Council consider interviewing each respondent and take into consideration all of the options that the City asked for. She said they have offered to participate in the cost of remodeling the mini-putt and then found out the other day that Mr. Wilson has already requested $40, 000 to do that. Upon Dowell ' s question, Driscoll said the process for following a Request for Proposal is not legally mandated so Council and Administration can set that process up as they deem advisable. Council could take action to direct staff to review proposals and/or interview the proposers and would have the authority to request Administration to do that. 21 i May 1, 1990 PARKS Wilson stated that any revenue the City can generate on that golf course should go back to the facility Golf Complex because the golfing public is paying for that. He Merchandising said that it has been proven that private enterprise is more interested in profit than building and maintaining a golf course for public play and that the PGA recognizes the need for municipal courses. Wilson gave backgrounds of the personnel employed at the golf course and showed figures of past history and of projected revenue. Mrs. O'Brien stated she was told by Ms. Bartelt and by McCarthy that there were no past figures available, and the material given to them was not the same as Wilson was now showing. Wilson stated that the golf course is paying its own way and that it is costly to build and properly maintain a golf course. He said that he never intended to compete with private enterprise just to provide the best service to the participants. He asked that the Council give him this year and next year to prove that the course can return the amounts they stated. Ruth O'Brien stated that Council should have reviewed the proposals and that a professional should be in charge of the facility. She noted that she had ties in Kent, and has owned the Creamery Building. Gary Johnson stated that he also was a Kent resident and that it was time for the City to get serious about the size of the obligation the taxpayers had taken on and about having professionals run the golf course. Doug Schwab suggested that the City would be remiss in its responsibility if it gives a go ahead for this project tonight without an evaluation of the Request for Proposals. He suggested that the City get some experts involved in the process. Dowell noted that the Finance Director had recommended that the Parks Department run the golf course, and he was inclined to go with the advice of the City' s experts and if the figures don't work out as promised within a year or two we could make a change. He then MOVED that the Council approve the recommendations of the Finance Department and the Internal Budget Committee to provide that the Parks Department operate the entire golf complex. White seconded and said we are obligated to all those tax payers for the bonds issued. He noted that he did 22 May 1, 1990 PARKS not always agree with the Internal Budget Committee but he would support Dowell on this item. Golf Complex Merchandising Orr objected to being expected to act on this added item when there was no material in the agenda packet. She ques tionedProposal the Request P procedure and the fact that there was no recommendation from the Parks Committee or the Operations Committee in spite of the fact that the City will have to finance the Parks Department to get this program started. For this reason she stated she would abstain from voting. Jon Johnson stated that he would like to have an independent committee study the issue and get some expert advice in developing a process for selecting the method of deciding how the golf course would be best operated. This committee would report back and their decision could be implemented for the 1992 budget. Dowell did not consider this a friendly amendment as the employees would not know if the job would continue for more than a year. Orr stated that she could support the motion if it contained Johnson' s provision. White expressed some concern about the time frame being too short. Johnson offered an alternate amendment: to form a committee consisting of the Parks Committee and golf pros to reevaluate the City's operation of the golf course in two years. If necessary, this group would develop an Request for Proposal for the public. It was clarified that this would mean that the Parks Department would operate the course for 2 1/2 years, with the recommendation from the proposed committee to be made in time for the 1993 budget. Orr then seconded the amendment. White and Dowell considered this to be friendly and agreed to incorporate it into the original motion. The motion then carried unanimously. FINANCE (CONSENT CALENDAR - ITEM 3B) Approval of Bills. APPROVAL of payment of the bills received through May 3 , 1990 after auditing by the Operations Committee at its meeting at 4 :30 p.m. on May 8, 1990. 23 i May 1, 1990 FINANCE Approval of checks issued for vouchers: Date Check Num bers Amount 4/17/90 90420 - 90426 $ 10,744.91 4/17 - 4/27 90886 - 90911 192 ,555.59 4/30/90 90912 91516 705 924 . 33 $909,224 .83 Approval of checks issued for payroll : Date Check Numbers Amount 4/20/90 134278 - 134974 $791, 252 .79 ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 11: 50 p.m. c Ma rie Jensen CMC City Clerk i 24