HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil May 10 20111
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WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL
Regular County Council
May 10, 2011
CALL TO ORDER
Council Chair Sam Crawford called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. in the Council
Chambers, 311 Grand Avenue, Bellingham, Washington.
ROLL CALL
Present: Barbara Brenner, Sam Crawford, Kathy Kershner, Bill Knutzen, Ken
Mann, Tony Larson and Carl Weimer
Absent: None
(7:05:24 PM)
FLAG SALUTE
ANNOUNCEMENTS (7:06:00 PM)
Crawford announced that the following items were discussed by the Committee of
the Whole today:
1. DISCUSSION WITH REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE WASHINGTON COUNTIES
RISK POOL - AB2011 -017
2. DISCUSSION REGARDING RECONVEYANCE ISSUES - AB2011 -180
3. DISCUSSION REGARDING A POTENTIAL PROPERTY ACQUISITION - AB2011-
018
4. STRATEGY PLANNING DISCUSSION AND POSITIONS TO BE TAKEN
REGARDING COLLECTIVE BARGAINING PER RCW 42.30.140(4)(A) -
AB2011 -036
S. DISCUSSION WITH DEPUTY PROSECUTOR REGARDING FERRY ISSUES —
AB2011 -018
Whatcom County Council, 5/10/2011, Page 1
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SPECIAL PRESENTATION
1. QUARTERLY REPORT - BEHAVIORAL HEALTH REVENUE ADVISORY
COMMITTEE AB2011 -106 (7:07 :04 PM)
Jackie Mitchell, Health Department, reported for the Behavioral Health Revenue
Advisory Committee regarding the jail services program. She referenced the memo and
report in the Council packet. She spent time in the jail with the corrections officers, and
found that the corrections staff are very respectful. She described the Jail Mental Health
program and the Juvenile Court Behavioral Health Specialist.
MINUTES CONSENT (7 :11 :00 PM)
Knutzen moved to approve the Minutes Consent items.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Larson, Crawford, Brenner, Weimer, Knutzen, Mann and Kershner (7)
Nays: None (0)
1. SPECIAL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE FOR APRIL 12, 2011 (9 A.M.)
2. SPECIAL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE FOR APRIL 12, 2011 (11 A.M.)
3. COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE FOR APRIL 12, 2011
4. REGULAR COUNTY COUNCIL FOR APRIL 12, 2011
S. SPECIAL COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE FOR APRIL 19, 2011
6. COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE FOR APRIL 26, 2011
OPEN SESSION (7 :11 :36 PM)
The following people spoke:
• Isabel Vanderslice, 1225 Railroad Ave. Whatcom Conservation Voters
representative, spoke on the Lake Whatcom reconveyance.
• Mitch Friedman, 2831 Lyle Street, Conservation Northwest Director, spoke on
the Lake Whatcom reconveyance.
• Stewart Rich, 3811 Constitution Road, Lummi Island, Protect Lummi Island
Community (PLIC) President, spoke on ferry negotiations.
• Steve Hood, Department of Ecology, submitted information (on file) and
spoke on urban stream temperatures.
• Nicole Brown, 460 Innis Creek Road, Acme, Safeguard the South Fork
representative, spoke on the possible SSA Marine Gateway Pacific Terminal at
Cherry Point.
• Pete Kremen, County Executive, spoke on the possible SSA Marine Gateway
Pacific Terminal at Cherry Point.
• Daniel Probst, 1317 Portal Drive, spoke on the Lake Whatcom reconveyance.
• Tom Westergreen, 4800 South Pass Road, Sumas, spoke on the loss of timber
lands to park uses.
Whatcom County Council, 5/10/2011, Page 2
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• Jim Dickinson, 2094 West Shore Drive, Lummi Island, spoke on ferry
negotiations.
• Shane Roth, 3925 E. Connecticut Street, Bellingham, spoke on the Wayne
Groen case.
• Ken Minnard, 2120 I Street, Transitional Bikes Owner, spoke on the Lake
Whatcom reconveyance.
• Ron Clizbe, 1896 Governor Road, Whimps Mountain Bike Association Member,
spoke on the Lake Whatcom reconveyance.
• David Wallin, 2020 N. Mahonia Place, Bellingham, submitted a handout (on
file) and spoke on the Lake Whatcom reconveyance.
• Dan McShane, 1451 Grant Street, submitted information (on file) and spoke
on the Lake Whatcom reconveyance.
• Matt Christman, 1314 Harris Avenue, spoke on the Lake Whatcom
reconveyance.
• Ted Matts, 1433 Iron Street, Bellingham, spoke on the Lake Whatcom
reconveyance.
• Greg Brown, 4363 Saddlestone Drive, spoke on the possible SSA Marine
Gateway Pacific Terminal at Cherry Point.
• Steve Harris, 1532 Fruitland Drive, Bellingham, spoke on the Sheriff's Office
patrol boat purchase.
• Eric Brown, 1907 F Street, Bellingham, spoke on the Lake Whatcom
reconveyance.
• Wendy Harris, Silver Beach, spoke on the Lake Whatcom reconveyance.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. ORDINANCE AMENDING THE WHATCOM COUNTY ZONING CODE TITLE 20,
THE OFFICIAL WHATCOM COUNTY ZONING MAP, AND THE WHATCOM
COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AND MAPS, TO IMPLEMENT CHANGES
RELATED TO RURAL LAND USE PLANNING - AB2010 -072D (7:58 :20 PM)
Gary Davis, Planning and Development Services Department, gave a staff report on
the latest changes.
Crawford stated the testimony will be limited to amendments to the April 12 version
of the ordinance that were proposed, accepted, and introduced on April 26. He opened the
public hearing and the following people spoke:
Steve Hood, Department of Ecology, submitted handouts (on file) and stated his
testimony is regarding concerns with the residential overlay and the rural residential, one
unit per five acres (RR5). Executive Kremen committed to Ecology to work on the County's
development regulations around Lake Whatcom. Achieving that goal is difficult on small lots
of one and two acres, which add phosphorus to the lake under the current regulations.
Whatcom County's analysis shows that the density overlay only protects the public
landowner. No one else gains anything. Nine of the 17 lots identified are not being affected
at all by the zoning changes or overlay district. Of the eight new lots that can be created,
three are on City of Bellingham property that was purchased to prevent development. Two
parcels can be developed. One of those two parcels doesn't have public water service. The
one remaining lot is a Department of Natural Resources (DNR) property at Strawberry Point
that can't be subdivided. The RR5 zone allows doubling of impervious area. The easiest
way for a new residence to meet the goal of not creating any new phosphorus is to maintain
Whatcom County Council, 5/10/2011, Page 3
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a limit of ten percent of impervious surface. Creating an RR1 zone will allow twenty percent
of impervious area.
Jean Melious, 1925 Lakecrest Drive, stated she speaks on behalf of David Stalheim,
Lauralee Brakke, Wendy Harris, and Eric Hirst. First, she is concerned about setbacks on
commercial and industrial zones won't protect agricultural land from residential
development. The proposed rural element and zoning code will allow a substantial amount
of new residential development to occur adjacent to farmlands. The zoning code only
provides for a five -foot setback between residential development and agricultural land. The
zoning code will create burdens on the farmer. Farm uses, not homeowners, must provide
a 150- to 300 -foot buffer if there is a house on another property. The County Council said
residential uses are more detrimental than commercial and industrial uses. Skagit County
requires a 200 -foot setback. The findings and conclusions say development regulations
requiring setbacks from resource uses are consistent with the Growth Management Act
(GMA) goal eight, to maintain and enhance natural resource -based industries and
discourage incompatible uses. The record does not support that contention.
Second, the zoning categories newly proposed to require a 25 -foot setback are few.
The setback only applies to the zoning categories that are allowed in limited areas of more
intense rural development (LAMIRDs). Nothing in the Code prevents the other zoning
categories from being applied within LAMIRDs or all over the county in rural areas outside
the urban growth areas.
Last, a geographical information system (GIS) review of the rural density overlay
shows confirms that 25 lots could be created in just the rural, two units per acre (R2A)
zone. The issue is the complete inability to know what that density overlay will provide.
Todd Donovan, 2407 Cherry Street, stated the proposed changes to the
Comprehensive Plan don't make it consistent with the GMA. Tools to fight sprawl, deal with
concurrency, and save money to make development pay for itself have has been removed.
Language about avoiding the proliferation of commercial businesses throughout rural areas
is removed. The Council is voting to eliminate language about preventing the conversion of
farmland and forestland into non - resource lands. The amendments allow residential
overlays to allow infill in rural areas. Infill in rural areas is sprawl, and is inconsistent with
the other parts of the Comprehensive Plan. This is not compatible with the GMA.
Wendy Harris, Bellingham, stated she is concerned about changes to the findings of
facts that are being brought forward tonight. They are about dates, meetings, and article
publications. She would like a chance to review this chronology of relevant facts. The
public has not had an opportunity to review and comment on these changes. That is
another procedural irregularity in this entire process. Also, Mr. Davis provided statistics on
the number of new lots that would be left after the rural element update. However, an
analysis of those statistics is missing.
Dannon Traxler, Sahlin Family /Governors Point Development Company
representative, referenced conclusion 3(e) and stated the actual 2007 compliance decision
says manmade structures and facilities at residential densities of one or two dwelling units
per acre, or one dwelling unit per two acres are more intensive rural development.
However, it is designed to serve a density of one unit per five acres, it's not more intensive
rural development. The Governors Point 4 -inch line would only serve 53 units to be
considered more intensive rural development. Engineering documents she submitted
indicate the 4 -inch line is adequate to serve the entire 141 -lot subdivision. It is more
intensive rural development pursuant to this decision. Therefore, it's problematic that it
Whatcom County Council, 5/10/2011, Page 4
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wasn't considered or mapped. This board determination of one- or two - dwelling units per
acre that constitutes more intensive rural development is a bright line, which the board is
not allowed to determine. That holding is suspect. She asked the Council to reconsider its
vote to include the Chuckanut area and Governors Point in a type I LAMIRD.
Cathy Lehman, Futurewise Whatcom Chapter Director, stated recent Census data
shows the county grew 113 percent of what was forecast, which shows there are growth
issues in the county. They only had seventy -seven percent of the forecasted growth in
Bellingham and fifty -seven percent forecasted growth in the small cities. There was 330
percent more than the forecasted growth in the unincorporated areas. She's grateful that
they are addressing rural growth in Whatcom County at this time. In this proposal,
agricultural buffers should be at least 100 feet. Growth potential in the Lake Whatcom
watershed should be eliminated. Some LAMIRDs are too close to Ferndale and Bellingham
urban growth areas (UGAs). There are issues with the airport impacting the Bay. Deleting
language that protects rural character is concerning. All -in -all, she's glad they are finally
finishing this ordinance. She invited all to a Futurewise party at Bellwood Acres to celebrate
the completion of this process.
Dan McShane, 1451 Grant Street, stated this process has been hard to follow for all.
He apologized to the five councilmembers who were not on the Council in 2004, when this
could have been and should have been resolved. His powers of persuasion failed him, and
he did not have the majority who wanted to take this on. The Councilmembers have
inherited a problem that has been here for 14 years. The proposal opens the opportunity
for commercial development within the LAMIRDs beyond what is allowed today, by
expanding the square footage. It's very inconsistent with what existed in 1990. In one
case, they are allowing 30,000 square feet of development on one lot that may have had a
drive -in movie theater and others that weren't developed at all. It's not consistent with
maintaining character. This has been rushed and difficult to follow. It's a complex
ordinance. Unfortunately, they've tried to fit in things that are inconsistent. He's also
concerned about language about a preference for natural resource business in these areas.
That's a very good idea. However, what the Code allows has nothing to do with natural
resource businesses. They are precluding the opportunity for natural resource -based
business centers that would support farming and forestry. They have to compete with
commercial development that isn't related to resources. That isn't consistent with what
they really should do and with rural character. It doesn't match what he's heard some of
them say about rural character. People are willing to help if the Council is willing to listen.
Laura Chandler, 3792 Fort Bellingham Road, stated she is concerned that the Fort
Bellingham- Marietta area has been designated a LAMIRD. They don't want their rural
character to change. The denser development would include more septic systems in an
area on Bellingham Bay, which already has problems with septic systems. There would be
more pressure on the bay also from runoff. Making that area a LAMIRD creates more
sprawl. They are very close to the UGA boundary. There is a current proposal for a 15-
house or more development, with all houses on septic systems and an unstable bluff. They
want to keep the bay clean. If this area has to be developed, it should be annexed into
Bellingham, with a sewer system.
Hearing no one else, Crawford closed the public hearing.
(8:28:09 PM)
Kershner moved to adopt the ordinance. There are no 30,000 square foot
buildings allowed in the areas Mr. McShane referenced. The Council changed that. The
Whatcom County Council, 5/10/2011, Page 5
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handouts from staff tonight are scrivener's errors and updates on dates, because they have
had to push out this vote. The Planning staff came prepared for the Council to take action
every two weeks for the past couple of months. The 113 percent growth in Whatcom
County is not a growth issue. It's reality. She agrees that they must address it when they
address UGA issues. The Council worked really hard on this ordinance. The process has not
been easy. They all looked at a large stack of public input and Planning Department
documentation. They have made decisions, changed decisions, struggled with the Revised
Code of Washington (RCW) that is the umbrella law to all of this work. They worked hard to
not hurt people or the rural character. This is not perfect. She feels good about supporting
this ordinance. She thanks the County staff for all their help over the past year.
Brenner stated she's been working on this for more than a year. The previous
Council was quite a bit different from this Council. In the end, they ended up supporting a
document. She lives within a range. It's very important to provide diversity for Whatcom
County. That is not an impediment to rural character. Whatcom County was created with
little townships. It's disrespectful to the eclectic way this county has grown to now call
them sprawl. This county, outside the cities, has been very warm, inviting, and rural.
There is a difference between diversity in rural character and people's tastes. She's still
within the range. She hopes that some people who have said they are hurting this county
will see that they have reduced much density, compared to what they first dealt with years
ago. It may not be as much as some people wanted. There has to be a way to come
together on this. This is and will always be a wonderful county. They haven't done
anything in this ordinance that would prevent that from continuing.
Weimer stated he will not vote in favor of this ordinance. This endeavor has been a
huge waste of taxpayer money. They will have to revisit a bunch of it over and over again.
It increases the lots and impervious surfaces in the Lake Whatcom watershed. It increases
the lots in the rural areas beyond what they should be, because of the density overlay,
which is contrary to comments they heard from all the Cities during the UGA updates. It
provides inadequate setbacks for agricultural lands, which should be at least 100 -feet.
Fifty -foot setbacks may have been a decent compromise. It provides commercial and
industrial building sizes in rural areas out of character with those rural areas. It provides a
lack of any analysis of the impacts of environmental resources of increased density
allowances. It provides LAMIRDs adjacent to urban areas, clearly creating sprawl. The
third Whereas statement in the ordinance is incorrect. The Planning Commission never
reviewed the amendments to Title 20. He will vote against the ordinance.
Mann stated he commends County staff, councilmembers, and citizens for their hard
work. Staff has done a phenomenal job working on this. He will not vote for the ordinance.
He didn't vote on the ordinance when he was on the Planning Commission because it was
too restrictive on businesses and landowners in the rural areas. Now, the pendulum has
swung to the other side. They didn't do much planning. This ordinance doesn't get at the
problems they're trying to solve. He looks forward to moving on to other land use issues.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Larson, Crawford, Brenner, Knutzen and Kershner (5)
Nays: Mann and Weimer (2)
COUNCIL "CONSENT AGENDA" ITEMS (8 :36:50 PM)
Mann reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee and moved
to approve items two through 14.
Whatcom County Council, 5/10/2011, Page 6
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Crawford withdrew item six, which is for the Flood Control Zone District Board of
Supervisors.
The motion to approve items two through five and seven through 14 carried by the
following vote:
Ayes: Larson, Crawford, Brenner, Weimer, Knutzen, Mann and Kershner (7)
Nays: None (0)
1. REQUEST APPROVAL FOR THE COUNTY EXECUTIVE TO ENTER INTO A AN
INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN WHATCOM COUNTY AND FIRE DISTRICT
7 TO SUPPORT THE COST OF PARAMEDIC SERVICES IN THE AMOUNT OF
$195,090 - AB2011 -163 (8:38:04 PM)
Mann reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee and moved
to approve the request. He asked Fire Chief Russell to explain incentive pay structures to
paramedics who aren't working full -time.
Gary Russell, Fire District 7 Fire Chief, stated incentive pay is premium pay for
working paramedics. They are averaging 27 days per month as a paramedic unit in
Whatcom County, serving District 7 and District 17. Medic three and Medic four are closer
to some areas of District 7. They also take calls to North Whatcom in the Blaine area. They
average 40 to 45 advanced life support (ALS) transports per month. They will have about
500 ALS transports in Whatcom County in 2011. They had 260 ALS transports last year, in
the five months they were fully operational. In the 2005 plan, they were designated to be a
12 -hour unit in 2010. That has been put off because the basic life support (BLS) capacity
has taken calls. They were slowed down in that process and don't have all nine medics.
They have seven medics today. One is an exempt position. This contract is for two years.
It is to support the ongoing medical training and overtime and also the premium pay for
those six paramedics. When they become a 12 -hour unit, to operate correctly, they have
three people on a lateral hiring list that will come in and be trained in Whatcom County.
Then they will serve for 12 hours in the county, and then serve 12 hours in their
jurisdiction. This contract would be extended to provide for a half -time unit that the
emergency medical services (EMS) fund would pay for. Now, they are seven - eights of a
unit, but they don't cover Kendall, Lynden, and other areas. They cannot gift public funds,
so they cover their area, District 17, and possibly District 8 during a road construction
project. Now, they are in idle until they are contracted as a full -time unit. They are at the
extra capacity for Whatcom Medic One. The reason they don't serve every day of the
month is because they are short by one and a half medics. Now, the Council is paying for
the premium pay and training costs to keep them current. Fire District 7 is paying for all
the medics' wages and benefits. When they become a full -time unit, he will submit a
different budget for half -time costs of a full -time unit.
Mann stated they've heard that the call volume has not materialized as expected,
and there isn't a need for a fifth medic unit. That's why he questioned the pay for a fifth
medic unit. Russell stated they had a contract with the County last year for $80,000 for the
same purpose, to pay premium pay and training costs to keep those medics available when
the capacity is there for a fifth medic unit. They won't have to find and train medics.
Mann asked how long they will pay these medics to not be paramedics. Russell
stated they are paramedics. They are taking 500 ALS calls that Medic One would otherwise
respond to.
Whatcom County Council, 5/10/2011, Page 7
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Mann asked when they will be at full capacity. Russell stated it will happen when the
Council and Operations agree that capacity is required. Now, they are partnering with the
County. The Fire District is paying most of the cost.
Weimer asked where the ongoing training is taking place. Russell stated they have
an ongoing training and education program (OTEP) approved by Dr. Wayne. The training is
done by their supervising physician they employ. They are also linked to Harborview
Medical Center training sessions by interactive real -time cameras. They bring in physicians.
They do monthly training for at least six hours. The medics also have to go to the hospital
for training. They are not going out of county for training.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Larson, Crawford, Brenner, Weimer, Knutzen, Mann and Kershner (7)
Nays: None (0)
2. REQUEST AUTHORIZATION FOR THE COUNTY EXECUTIVE TO ENTER INTO A
COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT BETWEEN WHATCOM COUNTY AND THE UNITED
STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, MT. BAKER- SNOQUALMIE
NATIONAL FOREST, TO PROVIDE FUNDS FOR A DEPUTY TO PATROL THE MT.
BAKER - SNOQUALMIE NATIONAL FOREST, IN THE AMOUNT OF $22,650 -
AB2011 -164
3. REQUEST APPROVAL FOR THE COUNTY EXECUTIVE TO ENTER INTO A
CONTRACT BETWEEN WHATCOM COUNTY AND DONNA DAVIS, LMHC, TO
PROVIDE OUTPATIENT MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT SERVICES TO
WHATCOM COUNTY RESIDENTS WHO HAVE NO OTHER READILY AVAILABLE
SOURCE OF FUNDING TO PROCURE MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES - AB2011-
165
4. REQUEST APPROVAL FOR THE COUNTY EXECUTIVE TO AWARD
CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT BID #11 -36 FOR 2011 HOT MIX ASPHALT
PRELEVEL AT MISCELLANEOUS LOCATIONS TO LOWEST BIDDER, GRANITE
CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,375,090 - AB2011 -166
S. REQUEST APPROVAL FOR THE COUNTY EXECUTIVE TO ENTER INTO A GRANT
AGREEMENT BETWEEN WHATCOM COUNTY AND THE STATE OF
WASHINGTON DEPARTMENT OF ECOLOGY FOR THE LAHTI DRIVE
STORMWATER IMPROVEMENT PROJECT IN THE AMOUNT OF $131,020 -
AB2011 -167
6. REQUEST APPROVAL FOR THE COUNTY EXECUTIVE TO ENTER INTO A
CONTRACT BETWEEN WHATCOM COUNTY FLOOD CONTROL ZONE DISTRICT
AND ROSARIO ARCHAEOLOGY, LLC, M.A. FOR CULTURAL RESOURCE
ASSESSMENT FOR CHAREL TERRACE STORMWATER SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS
IN THE AMOUNT OF $14,521.73 - AB2011 -168
(Clerk's Note: Council acting as the Whatcom County Flood Control Zone District
Board of Supervisors.)
Mann reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee and moved to
approve the request.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Whatcom County Council, 5/10/2011, Page 8
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Ayes: Larson, Crawford, Brenner, Weimer, Knutzen, Mann and Kershner (7)
Nays: None (0)
7. REQUEST APPROVAL FOR THE COUNTY EXECUTIVE TO AWARD A
CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO COLACURCIO BROTHERS CONSTRUCTION,
INC. FOR SILVER BEACH CREEK IMPROVEMENTS FROM BROWNSVILLE
DRIVE TO EAST 16TH PLACE, IN THE AMOUNT OF $928,771.41 - AB2011-
169
8. REQUEST APPROVAL FOR THE COUNTY EXECUTIVE TO ENTER INTO AN
INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT WITH THE CITY OF BELLINGHAM, CITY OF
FERNDALE, AND PORT OF BELLINGHAM FOR JOINT USE, MAINTENANCE AND
OPERATION OF A STREET SWEEPER - AB2011 -170
9. REQUEST APPROVAL FOR THE COUNTY EXECUTIVE TO ENTER INTO AN
INTERLOCAL LOAN AGREEMENT BETWEEN WHATCOM COUNTY AND THE
PORT OF BELLINGHAM TO PROVIDE FUNDING FROM THE ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT INVESTMENT PROGRAM FOR THE INDEX INDUSTRIES
BUSINESS EXPANSION PROJECT IN THE AMOUNT OF $500,000 - AB2011-
171
10. REQUEST APPROVAL FOR THE COUNTY EXECUTIVE TO ENTER INTO A
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN WHATCOM COUNTY AND
THE OPPORTUNITY COUNCIL FOR THE EAST WHATCOM REGIONAL
RESOURCE CENTER IN THE AMOUNT OF $30,000 - AB2011 -172
11. REQUEST APPROVAL FOR THE COUNTY EXECUTIVE TO AWARD BID #11 -41
TO THE LOWEST RESPONSIVE BIDDER, AMERICAN MARINE HOLDINGS,
LLC /DONZI MARINE FOR A REPLACEMENT PATROL BOAT IN THE AMOUNT
OF $111,579.23 - AB2011 -173
12. REQUEST APPROVAL FOR THE COUNTY EXECUTIVE TO AWARD BID #11 -26
TO DAY WIRELESS AND NW COMMUNICATIONS FOR VEHICLE RADIO
MAINTENANCE IN THE AMOUNT OF $75,000 - AB2011 -174
13. REQUEST APPROVAL FOR THE COUNTY EXECUTIVE TO APPROVE ADDING AN
ADDITIONAL VENDOR, ALPINE PRODUCTS, INC. FOR THE PURCHASE OF
WATERBORNE TRAFFIC LINE PAINT BY PUBLIC WORKS MAINTENANCE AND
OPERATIONS - AB2011 -175
14. REQUEST APPROVAL FOR THE COUNTY EXECUTIVE TO APPROVE ADDING AN
ADDITIONAL VENDOR, SHERWIN WILLIAMS, INC. FOR THE PURCHASE OF
WATERBORNE TRAFFIC LINE PAINT BY PUBLIC WORKS MAINTENANCE AND
OPERATIONS - AB2011 -176
OTHER ITEMS
1. REQUEST APPROVAL FOR THE COUNTY EXECUTIVE TO ENTER INTO AN
INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN WHATCOM COUNTY AND THE WHATCOM
COUNTY FLOOD CONTROL ZONE DISTRICT AND SUBZONES FOR DISTRICT
OPERATIONS AND ADMINISTRATION - AB2011 -151 (8:48:41 PM)
Whatcom County Council, 5/10/2011, Page 9
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(Clerk's Note: Council acting as the Whatcom County Flood Control Zone District
Board of Supervisors.)
Mann reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee and
recommends that this agreement be forwarded to the Flood Control Zone District Advisory
Committee for their input and review.
The Council concurred.
2. RESOLUTION ACCEPTING WHATCOM COUNTY'S ANNUAL RISK MANAGEMENT
SELF - ASSESSMENT - AB2011 -156 (8 :49 :13 PM)
Mann reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee and moved
to approve the substitute assessment dated April 28, 2011.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Larson, Crawford, Brenner, Weimer, Knutzen, Mann and Kershner (7)
Nays: None (0)
3. REQUEST CONFIRMATION OF THE COUNTY EXECUTIVE'S APPOINTMENT OF
JOHN BARRY TO THE WHATCOM COUNTY DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES
BOARD - AB2011 -177 (8 :50 :50 PM)
Mann moved to confirm the appointment.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Larson, Crawford, Brenner, Weimer, Knutzen, Mann and Kershner (7)
Nays: None (0)
4. REQUEST CONFIRMATION OF THE COUNTY EXECUTIVE'S APPOINTMENT OF
MANUEL RETA TO THE BELLINGHAM - WHATCOM COUNTY COMMISSION
AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE - AB2011 -178 (8 :51 :07 PM)
Kershner moved to confirm the appointment.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Larson, Crawford, Brenner, Weimer, Knutzen, Mann and Kershner (7)
Nays: None (0)
INTRODUCTION ITEMS (8 :51 :49 PM)
Brenner moved to accept three introduction items, including her resolution
regarding development standards for the Lake Whatcom watershed.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Larson, Crawford, Brenner, Weimer, Knutzen, Mann and Kershner (7)
Nays: None (0)
1. ORDINANCE AMENDING WHATCOM COUNTY CODE 10.44, HORSES ON
CERTAIN ROADS - AB2011 -162
Whatcom County Council, 5/10/2011, Page 10
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2. ORDINANCE AMENDING THE 2011 WHATCOM COUNTY BUDGET, FIFTH
REQUEST, IN THE AMOUNT OF $445,160 - AB2011 -179
3. RESOLUTION REGARDING THE WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL'S INTENT TO
ENSURE ADEQUATE DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS IN THE LAKE WHATCOM
WATERSHED - AB2011 -184
OTHER BUSINESS (8:55:01 PM)
Knutzen stated he would like to schedule a joint meeting with the Port of Bellingham
to explore the idea of combining purchasing power to reduce costs for certain items, the
Economic Development Investment (EDI) money, and certain restrictions on Port property.
He's talked to the Public Works staff about some of these things that might benefit both
parties.
Crawford stated he suggests setting up an agenda for the meeting so members have
a clear idea of what would be discussed. Ask the Port Commissioners if there are items
they would like to add to the agenda. Councilmember Knutzen should draft an agreed -upon
agenda in writing that the everyone can review.
Knutzen stated he is looking for feedback from councilmembers on an agenda and
permission to move forward with scheduling a joint meeting.
Crawford stated he would like to see the specific topics in writing before asking the
Council Clerk to schedule a meeting. The Port Commissioners should also indicate whether
they are willing to have a discussion of those items and provide feedback.
Mann stated it's a great idea. He'd like to have a better idea of what the Port is up
to. They miss a lot of opportunities for cooperation.
Kershner stated she recommends that the agenda include Port and Council
presentations on their respective projects.
Knutzen stated they had a presentation on the waterfront redevelopment program in
the Marine Resources Committee. It was very interesting and informative.
Brenner stated she is fine with having a joint meeting.
Larsen asked for an update from Councilmembers Kershner and Brenner about the
Lummi Island Ferry Task Force on June 7, 2011.
Kershner stated the Council can invite the Task Force Chair to a Council meeting.
Brenner stated it's best to be scheduled at the Public Works Committee or the
Committee of the Whole.
The Council concurred.
Pete Kremen, County Executive, stated he congratulates the Council for the
productive evening. Planning staff worked very hard on the rural element.
Whatcom County Council, 5/10/2011, Page 11
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A week ago, he spent four and a half hours in a meeting with President Obama, Vice -
President Biden, and Cabinet members, Homeland Security Secretary Napolitano,
Department of Housing and Urban Development Secretary Donovan, Health and Human
Services Secretary Sebelius, Transportation Secretary LaHood, and others. About 60
County officials, through the National Association of Counties and the County Executive's of
America, of which he is a board member, had the opportunity to attend this meeting.
During that meeting, the county officials throughout the nation conveyed the message that
the federal government not balance the federal budget on the backs of county
governments, which is what has been happening over the last several months. The funding
for several programs have been wiped out. They received positive feedback from the Vice -
President, a former county official.
They talked about several issues. As a border county, Whatcom County needs to be
extra vigilant and careful about infiltration and terrorist activities. The White House wanted
the county leaders to accept and support their program called "See Something, Say
Something." They need to be on the lookout, so anything suspicious is reported. The trip
was monumental. The National Association of Counties and County Executives of America
have been adamant about having a meaningful dialog with the White House. The prior
administration was not open to having any meaningful discussions with county officials.
Even the Clinton administration was not as open and accessible as the current
administration. This was a bipartisan event. From a county officials perspective, they all
appreciated the opportunity for a meaningful relationship with the White House.
Knutzen asked if Executive Kremen asked Secretary Napolitano to keep the Olympic
Coordination Center. Kremen stated the Department of Emergency Management in
Whatcom County and the County Administration have come up with a viable and desirable
alternative to the operations center at the airport. It will be a joint facility.
Kershner stated the "See Something, Say Something" program has existed in the
U.S. Navy for at least a decade. She's glad the current administration is willing to look at
the threat they may be facing. She asked if there is any help for the increased gang activity
and graffiti tags in the community. Kremen stated one of his colleagues brought up that
question about gang activity. Much of the gang activity is masterminded by adults, but
perpetrated by minors, who don't receive consequences that are as severe. It remains to
be seen whether or not they receive dedicated and focused funding to address that
problem.
REPORTS AND OTHER ITEMS FROM COUNCILMEMBERS
Weimer reported on the Lake Whatcom Policy Group meeting regarding the City of
Bellingham's program to study the cost - benefit analysis of Lake Whatcom programs. Also,
the Northwest Clean Air Agency Board meeting discussed money from the BP refinery to
mitigate greenhouse gases.
Brenner reported on the Lake Whatcom Policy Group meeting, when Hart Hodges
said they have to stop being advocates and start being analysts. Also, the Mental Health
Advisory Committee polled people about the possibility of combining with the Substance
Abuse Advisory Committee. Without the federal government putting them together, it's
difficult financially to do anything. She's heard the federal government is considering it.
The federal government should put that money in a single, combined place, where it's more
efficient.
Whatcom County Council, 5/10/2011, Page 12
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ADJOURN
The meeting adjourned at 9:15 p.m.
The Council approved these minutes on June 7 , 2011.
ATTEST:
WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL
WHATCOM COUNTY, WASHINGTON
Please contact the Council Office to obtain an
official, signed copy:
360- 676 -6690 or council &o.w hatcom .wa.us
Whatcom County Council, 5/10/2011, Page 13