HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil April 6 19992
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WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL
Regular County Council
April 6, 1999
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Council Chair Marlene Dawson in the
Council Committee Room, 311 Grand Avenue, Bellingham, Washington.
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Also Present: Absent:
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Kathy Sutter None
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L. Ward Nelson
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Connie Hoag
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Barbara Brenner
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Tom Brown
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Robert Imhof
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
Dawson announced that, during Committee of the Whole executive session, there was
consideration of an appeal of the Hearing Examiner's decision on PLS92 -0010. The
request is for preliminary plat approval for the proposed subdivision ( "Cedar Hills West ")
of a 39.98 -acre parcel located at the southern terminus of Oriental Avenue, just outside the
city limits of Bellingham. The original preliminary site plan proposes 91 single - family
residential lots. The appeal was filed by Lois Garlick, President, on behalf of Clean Water
Alliance/Watershed Defense Fund; Page Loeb, Brad Reynolds, and Sherilyn Wells (AB99 -
044).
Imhof moved to uphold the Hearing Examiner's decision.
Motion carried 5 -2 with Hoag and Brenner opposed.
Dawson also announced that, during Committee of the Whole executive session, there
was discussion with Chief Civil Prosecutor Randy Watts regarding pending litigation
(AB99 -018).
Dawson announced that, during Committee of the Whole executive session, there was
also a Discussion regarding acquisition of right of way by condemnation for reconstruction
of Lake Terrell Road (AB99 -136).
Regular County Council Meeting, 4/6/99, Page 1
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Imhof moved approval of the resolution on Council packet page 316A to authorize the County
Public Works Department to proceed with legal action to acquire frontage from parcels of land along
Lake Terrell Road for right -of -way purposes, by condemnation.
Motion to approve the resolution carried 6 -1 with Hoag opposed.
SPECIAL PRESENTATION
PRESENTATION REGARDING MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE IN A REGIONAL
NETWORK (AB99 -017)
Chuck Benjamin, Health and Human Services Director, introduced representatives from
the North Sound Regional Support Network (NSRSN), the Associated Provider Network
(APN), and a local service provider.
Gary Williams, NSRSN, stated that he is also the Whatcom County Mental Health
Program Specialist. The NSRSN was established by Senate Bill 5400 ten years ago. It allows
counties to join and become one operating entity. North Sound is a combination of Whatcom
County and four other counties. There is also the APN, which is unique in that all non - profit
mental health providers have come together as one operating entity. Also, they have local
providers, such as SeaMar, that contract with NSRSN. The County Executive, County Council,
and County Mental Health Advisory Board are also involved. Increasingly, consumers are
becoming involved in decision - making.
The NSRSN takes information from advisory boards and providers to bring local input
in serving the needs of the community in a regional manner. A local provider, SeaMar, is the
one major provider that provides special services in Skagit, Whatcom and Snohomish counties.
Other agencies also provide services.
The Board of Directors includes the County Executives and County Council members
and Commissioners. It is the directive board for the NSRSN regarding programs, contracts, and
employment. The Mental Health Advisory Board has representation from all five counties to
review the services that are being provided. An important role of the Region is to have quality
management and oversight. There is a Quality Management and Oversight Committee
(QMOC). There is also a planning process at the regional level. The Consumer Affairs
Division is a mechanism to provide a process to ensure consumers and advocates have direct
contact with NSRSN staff. The Ombuds service is a service where consumers can talk to
someone to resolve problems.
A major improvement in the last few years is that the Mental Health Advisory Board has
become empowered. There is a member on the Executive Board in a non - voting role. They
have developed committees to deal with issues, which have broad representation. Consumers
and advocates are developing their own types of services. There is increasing community
participation.
The Board of Directors, elected officials, and designees are kept informed of all pending
contracts through the monthly board meetings. The regional advisory board also meets monthly
Regular County Council Meeting, 4/6/99, Page 2
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and has representatives from all county advisory boards. They review and then report to the
Executive Board. The Whatcom County Mental Health Advisory Board reviews the
information going to the Executive Board of the region. They have a chance to go to the
Regional Advisory Board, bringing a Whatcom County perspective to any discussion. That
goes to the elected officials. They also have an annual public forum in Whatcom County. It is
used to develop budget strategies. The quality management process is an important document
and lays out specifically the detailed approach to ensuring a quality improvement process in the
region and is responsive to needs, criticisms, and complaints. The Planning Committee, with
the RSN, focuses on future issues and reviews current services. The 1999 Quality Management
Plan included seven consumers and advocates in its development. The plan will evolve. In
Whatcom County, there is a crisis oversight committee with the authority to recommend
sanctions if there are problems in contract performance. This assures that there is a mechanism
at the local level when services are not being provided. Locally it is the sheriff, police, and St.
Joseph's hospital that participate. They are developing program standards. The stress is to have
best practices. There are mechanisms for quality improvement and critical incident review
criteria. There is a formal process for consumer complaints. They look at complaints as an
opportunity to improve the mental health system.
There are guiding principles to be used in contract development and long -term goals.
Guidelines include treating consumers with dignity, respect and ensuring that their voice is
heard. They also encourage utilizing family support. Community education is a guiding
principle to educate the community and remove the stigma of mental health. They approach a
consumer from their strengths instead of weaknesses. Other guidelines are timely access to
services, consumer satisfaction, and involvement of consumers to improve the services.
Jerry LaFollet, APN Executive Director, stated that Whatcom County has one of the
finest service networks for mental health due to strong service providers and the advocacy of
individuals. The APN goal is to develop an effective and efficient community mental health
service system in the five county area, emphasizing managed care principles. In the last few
years, they have moved away from fee for service toward a more managed care approach. The
APN is composed of non - profit community agencies serving the five counties. The providers in
the APN include a range of organizations. Four out of the seven are Whatcom County
providers. APN was formed because the Board of Directors decided to move the system toward
a managed care system. At that time, the traditional providers formed the APN. There were a
number of key issues to address at that time, including issues to ensure a local voice, and
maximize use of resources for direct treatment. There are a number of principles that include
providing and promoting access to all consumers, maximizing quality of services, improving
service through collaboration with mental health and other social services systems, and
involving consumers and advocates in planning and delivery.
They have faced challenges in creating the system. One was to implement a regional
contract and maintain responsiveness to local counties so they maintain their oversight.
Another was to move into a managed care system. They have had accomplishments, including
a region -wide, state mandated crisis line number, implementing an access system for
assessment, and developing an integrated contract for managing in- patient and out - patient
services.
Regular County Council Meeting, 4/6/99, Page 3
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After two years, they are in the middle of the process. They have identified areas to
make greater strides to increase consumer and advocate involvement, including reducing the
time lag for assessment, expanding service capacity through more efficient and best practices,
refining outcome measures, making improvements in using the joint management information
system, working with the issue of acute care and hospital services, and increasing collaboration
with other systems.
Jane Relin, Whatcom Counseling and Psychiatric Clinic, stated that it comes down to
what services are in the County. The best thing that happened as the result of the regional
system is an increase in financial resources in Whatcom County. They found Whatcom was
under - funded and under - served. The County received an increase of $350,000 for outpatient
and case management services in Whatcom County. There were new resources for crisis
services. The services provided used to be primarily evaluation and investigation for
involuntary treatment. There was also a crisis respite house on the seedy side. Now there is a
local outreach component to crisis services. They go to the hospital, homes, and facilities where
they are living. They will help with voluntary and involuntary hospitalizations. Every client
going to St. Joeseph's or to Skagit County and is a client of the system now gets seen by their
own case manager of the crisis service in the hospital before discharge. There is a program now
with the jail with a case manager at the jail. They have been able to do intakes at the jail, and at
the hospital also. They moved more financial resources in the clinic from outpatient to
emergency services to ensure that people get service as quickly as possible. Higher standards
have resulted all across the APN. There is now only one set of paperwork and productivity and
performance standards. Now there are standards for data collection and protocols. All APN
providers have agreed to become accredited and staff are earning credentials. There has been a
downside. They've had problems. They lost the Homestead. Also, the fire marshal found that
Sun Community Services had to reduce the number of beds. In addition, they have set new
standards for their boards. At their clinic, their Board of Directors had always been not for
profit. They have now decided to go to the community and ask for help to provide services.
They began a new program to let people know what is going on in the clinic and the
community. She listed some of the new services.
Dawson stated that there used to be a need to address teens that are out of control and
provide temporary residences. She questioned whether there has been a resolution to that
problem. Relin stated that is still the biggest area of need.
LaFollett stated that 20% of the population is children. Children account for 30% of the
hospitalizations, 40% of the inpatient hospital care and 49% of the voluntary hospital dollars
spent in this region. That tells the service providers they have a challenge to develop other
alternatives to keep children out of hospital care. In- patient and out - patient services will free up
money for acute alternatives for in- patient.
Greg Long, NSRSN Assistant Director, stated that they are in the midst of a planning
process about children's acute services. One issue is what to do with difficult to place kids that
don't fit anywhere. They hope to come up with some new programs.
Brown asked if there is a formal list of the beds available and the supply. Relin stated
that they would make one.
Regular County Council Meeting, 4/6/99, Page 4
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Nelson thanked everyone that participates in solving the mental health problems in the
County. Whatcom County has a strong voice. He stated that Whatcom County at one time had
a program to help teens and questioned what happened to the funding for that program.
LaFollett stated that research has shown that 60% of the chronically ill had significant substance
abuse issues. They cannot do the job to serve the chronically ill if they can't integrate substance
abuse program.
Relin stated that they had a program that was a combination of mental health and
substance abuse issues. They found that the program was not sufficiently accountable. They've
pulled back on the contract for awhile, but will wind up expanding the service.
Brenner stated that there has been a lot of resistance to combining substance abuse and
mental illness. She is encouraged to hear they would combine the issues. Also, she questioned
whether there is any funding through the Becca Bill funding. LaFollett stated that goes through
the juvenile ourts and school systems.
Brenner suggested that the Becca Bill has been misused to deal with tardiness instead of
dealing with kids with the real problems.
(Clerk's Note: End of tape one side A)
LaFollett stated that Catholic Community Services has a service for kids and he would
encourage the two local providers to talk with court services about that to see if there is a way to
interface more successfully.
Brenner stated that it needs to go to the State.
Brown asked about the shortage of beds in Washington State. Relin stated that the
people going out of the State are the children.
Long stated that it has changed. They were shipping a substantial number of kids out of
the State. Now it is less than 1% of the kids. Some of those go to very specialized programs.
They are concerned with shipping kids out of region to King County. They hope to set up
programs to keep kids here locally.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
APPROVAL OF MINUTES — COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE FOR FEBRUARY 23,
1999; SPECIAL COUNCIL FOR JULY 16,1998; REGULAR COUNCIL OF JUNE 2,
NOVEMBER 24, AND DECEMBER 8, 1998 AND FEBRUARY 23, 1999.
Hoag moved to approve.
Sutter stated that on page 372 line 43, "processional" should be "procedural."
Hoag stated that there are other scrivener's errors that she would provide to the clerk.
Regular County Council Meeting, 4/6/99, Page 5
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Motion to approve carried unanimously.
OPEN SESSION
The following people spoke:
Rita Foley, S. Lake Whatcom, stated that a landowner on her road should not be allowed
to bulldoze or do any work on property he recently purchased. The County laws are not in terms
that people understand. They are vague. One law cancels out another law. He has no permits.
She asked if the Council could pass laws to protect the Lake and the watershed.
Dawson suggested she talk with Michael Knapp, Planning and Development Services
Director.
Bob Seaman, 8670 Delta Line Road, Custer, stated that he purchased property and
installed a trailer to live in. There is a small business near there. After living there, he noticed
that the handling of batteries was questionable. Hundreds of batteries were left out in the
weather. Environmental engineers said it could be a problem. The batteries leached onto his
property. He contacted the State Department of Ecology (DOE), who passed it on to the State
Department of Health (DOH). They have made progress in cleaning it up. There is a new pole
barn, but it is not up to full compliance. Used batteries are still stored outside. Acid and lead are
leaching onto his property. He had soil testing done. He asked that someone help him to get this
place in compliance.
Dawson stated that he should speak with the County Health Department.
Benjamin stated that he needed time to review the information and get together with
Seaman. His more recent correspondence was from Planning and Development Services, not the
Health Department.
Nelson asked if the County looks at lead standards. He also asked about where the
samples were taken from and questioned whether it is a public health issue because of the lead.
Benjamin stated that it could be.
Nelson stated that he wanted to know if other areas are impacted.
Hoag requested that this be scheduled in Public Works Committee.
Wareing stated that this does not need to go to committee. They would handle it and
provide information to the Council.
Anthony Raab, 2834 N. Shore Road, Bellingham, spoke regarding the Council positions
going to full time. He would support a movement of properly funding the hours that the Council
members put in. In the short term, he suggested that a standard amount of hours are agreed to
and be established, then additional hours could be logged in. Additionally, he thanked the
Council for supporting the Black Mountain Forestry Center in the WA -CERT grant funding
process.
Regular County Council Meeting, 4/6/99, Page 6
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2 Lois Garlick, 297 Chuckanut Point, asked what the Council did on the Cedar Hills West
3 Hearing Examiner appeal.
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5 Dawson stated that was done in Executive session and they upheld the Hearing
6 Examiner's decision.
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8 Garlick stated that the Council workload would lessen if they upheld the laws that are
9 already on the books.
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12 CONSENT AGENDA
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14 Nelson reported for Finance and Administrative Services Committee and moved approval
15 of Consent Agenda items one through six.
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17 Motion carried unanimously.
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19 1. REQUEST AUTHORIZATION FOR THE EXECUTIVE TO ENTER INTO A
20 CONTRACT BETWEEN WHATCOM COUNTY AND THE STATE OF
21 WASHINGTON DEPARTMENT OF ECOLOGY, PROVIDING FOR LOW INTEREST
22 LOANS TO RESIDENTS TO BE USED FOR REPAIR OF FAILING ON -SITE
23 SEPTIC SYSTEMS IN THE AMOUNT OF $315,000 (AB99 -130)
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25 2. REQUEST AUTHORIZATION FOR THE EXECUTIVE TO ENTER, ACCEPT AND
26 SIGN A DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE GRANT AWARD, TO PROVIDE A TASK
27 FORCE TO FOCUS ON ALL ACTIVITY RELATING TO THE IMPORTATION AND
28 EXPORTATION OF DRUGS, AND OTHER DRUG RELATED ACTIVITY, IN THE
29 FUNDED PASS THROUGH AMOUNT OF $125,000 (AB99 -131)
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31 3. REQUEST AUTHORIZATION FOR THE EXECUTIVE TO ENTER INTO A
32 CONTRACT BETWEEN THE WHATCOM COUNTY HEALTH AND HUMAN
33 SERVICES DEPARTMENT AND THE STATE OF WASHINGTON DEPARTMENT
34 OF HEALTH TO PROVIDE REVENUE FOR PUBLIC HEALTH NURSING
35 SERVICES, ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SERVICES AND LOCAL CAPACITY
36 DEVELOPMENT DOLLARS IN THE AMOUNT OF $554,940 (AB99 -132)
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38 4. RESOLUTION SETTING THE HEARING AND NOTICE OF HEARING TO
39 DECLARE PROPERTY SURPLUS (AB99 -133)
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41 5. REQUEST AUTHORIZATION FOR THE EXECUTIVE TO GRANT PERMISSION
42 FOR PUBLIC WORKS EQUIPMENT RENTAL & REPAIR TO PURCHASE FROM
43 GEORGIA - PACIFIC THE ANNUAL SUPPLY OF LIGNOSITE FOR USE ON
44 COUNTY ROADS, IN THE AMOUNT OF $55,000 (AB99 -134)
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46 6. REQUEST AUTHORIZATION FOR THE EXECUTIVE TO ENTER INTO AN
47 INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN WHATCOM COUNTY HEALTH &
Regular County Council Meeting, 4/6/99, Page 7
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HUMAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT AND THE BELLINGHAM HOUSING
AUTHORITY, TO PROVIDE FUNDING FOR A PART -TIME WELLNESS
OUTREACH WORKER AND FUNDING FOR TREATMENT, CHILDCARE, AND
TRANSPORTATION IN THE AMOUNT OF $62,860 (AB99 -135)
PUBLIC HEARING
ORDINANCE IN THE MATTER OF GRANTING A NON - EXCLUSIVE FRANCHISE
TO PUBLIC UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 1 OF SKAGIT COUNTY FOR A PERIOD OF
25 YEARS PURSUANT TO STATE LAW AND SECTION 9.30 OF THE WHATCOM
COUNTY HOME RULE CHARTER, TO OPERATE AND MAINTAIN A UTILITY
SYSTEM ALONG CERTAIN ROADS WITHIN THE UNINCORPORATED AREA OF
WHATCOM COUNTY (AB99 -105)
Jeff Monsen, Public Works Director, gave a staff report and stated that this is a request
from the Skagit County Public Utility District (PUD) to serve the area per their request. It is
only the areas along Summerland road and no further.
Dawson opened the public hearing and the following person spoke:
Gene Welch, General Manager of Water District #12, stated that the Water District
covers the area in question. The original proposals were for sections 35 and 36. He asked that
the proposal be changed to only 4700' along Summerland Road, which was done. They are
beginning the process to take over the line in the future. (Clerks Note: The above "4700 "' was
amended to "400'— 700 "' by the County Council on July 13, 1999. Original minutes reflect the
change)
Brenner asked if he had a problem with the ordinance. Welch stated that he did not. It
appeared that it would go further than what it is. He talked with PUD management and they
don't have a problem with the change.
Brown asked if the franchise that he is applying for would duplicate services provided by
Water District #10. Welch stated that Water District #12 is the present sewer service provider
for the Lake Samish area and a large portion of northern Skagit County. They are not water
purveyors at this time. Most people in the area draw water from the lake. There are two homes
on the Whatcom County line where the pipeline would be put in. Water District #12 would
rather be the water purveyor.
Hearing no one else, Dawson closed the public hearing.
Imhof moved approval of the ordinance.
Motion carried unanimously.
Regular County Council Meeting, 4/6/99, Page 8
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2. ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE 97 -011, ESTABLISHING A COMMUTE
TRIP REDUCTION PLAN (AB99 -122)
Dave Wareing, Deputy Administrator, stated that Ron Cubellis is ill and asked that his
presentation be delayed. The ordinance is self - explanatory.
Dawson opened the public hearing and, hearing no one, closed the public hearing.
Imhof moved approval.
Sutter stated that the program has been in operation in the County for over a year. Any
employer with over 100 employees is required to have a program. It is working very well. It has
been coordinated with the Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA).
Motion carried unanimously.
OTHER ITEMS
1. ORDINANCE AMENDING THE 1999 BUDGET, REQUEST #2 (AB99 -123)
Nelson reported for Finance and Administrative Services Committee and stated that the
amount appropriated for the Health Department from the Bellingham Housing Authority for
substance abuse issues was amended from $52,383 to $62,680.
Wareing stated that they will make the adjustments to the total general fund increased
expenditure and revenue columns.
Brenner moved to remove the $17,270 appropriated for funding and prosecution of the
County appeals of decisions of the Growth Management Hearings Board.
Hoag stated that she didn't support the contract for $25,000, but because Council
committed the money, she will honor that. She did not support the contract.
Motion to amend failed 1 -6 with Brenner in favor.
Hoag moved to delete the discretionary $100,000 out of the $855,000 appropriated for
watershed planning for the Water Resources Division.
Motion failed 3 -4 with Hoag, Brenner, and Brown in favor.
Brenner moved to reduce the funding for the Public Information and Education (PIE)
coordinator from $50,000 to $15,000 that was a portion of the $855,000 for watershed planning
for the Water Resources Division. The County has already hired someone that can do that. The
Regular County Council Meeting, 4/6/99, Page 9
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$15,000 would cover the agency already hired to get through the workshop and one other
function.
Monsen stated that Barry Hill's time is consumed with support work for the Initiating
Governments (IG) and caucuses. The PIE Coordinator focuses on outreach and education, as
compared to the administrative support that Hill was hired for. He performs educational tasks at
times, but was not hired for it. At this point, it is premature to describe every PIE activity. This
is one piece.
Nelson asked if this position would meet the state requirement for the public education
process. Monsen stated that this is intended to ensure the County accomplishes some of that
additional outreach that is not possible with the time that is available now.
Nelson questioned how extensive public outreach needs to be and whether there are
guidelines. Monsen stated that there was a structure and function document regarding the
watershed management process. One of the addenda to that is a draft scope relative to public
involvement and education. That goes into a great deal of detail about the activities that are
envisioned that this process would accomplish. It might not be accomplished by this position,
however.
Brenner stated that they should not be moving ahead because it is premature. Barry Hill
could do the work for this position. One of the responsibilities for that position was to do
outreach.
Sutter stated that this is not premature. The County is behind on getting started on some
of these issues. Putting off getting the public involved is not going to get the process moving
along. Hill doesn't have the time. He was hired as a coordinator for all the water related
programs.
Motion to amend to reduce the amount by $35,000 failed 2 -5 with Brenner and Hoag in
favor.
Brown stated that the $100,000 discretionary fund is not needed at this time. For that
reason, he can't support the ordinance.
Wareing stated that the key is that the $100,000 can only be spent with a unanimous vote
of the various executive authorities of the initiating governments.
Hoag concurred with Brown. It is not appropriate that the Tribes, City of Bellingham,
and Public Utility District (PUD) would decide how to spend the County's money.
Brenner stated that she asked to have this postponed until after the workshop. It is not a
question of trust. She needs answers before she okay's spending the money.
Regular County Council Meeting, 4/6/99, Page 10
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Nelson stated that the legislative body is micro managing. There is an administration that
has delegated authority, under the County Home Rule Charter, as elected by the citizens, as the
Council members are elected. The County desired to become the lead agency and fund the
program from the flood control tax. The County also wanted administration to put this together
with the other agencies involved ensuring that the County was in compliance with State law and
also meeting the needs of the community. Now, Council members want to question the
administration's decisions. All that will accomplish will be to drag the County's heels. They
should give administration the reign to do what the people hired them to do. He has every faith
that the administration will bring forward a program that will make the County look great.
Brenner stated that it is not about faith or trust. The Council does not write blank checks
when doing the budget.
Imhof called for the question.
Motion to approve as amended carried 4 -3 with Brown, Brenner, and Hoag opposed.
2. ORDINANCE AMENDING THE WHATCOM COUNTY CHARTER, TO BE
SUBMITTED TO THE PEOPLE, REGARDING THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH OF
GOVERNMENT (AB99 -090)
Nelson reported for Finance and Administrative Services Committee and stated that it
was tabled in committee with a vote of 1 -2.
Sutter stated that she trusted the Council would give this due consideration.
3. RESOLUTION AMENDING RESOLUTION 97 -062 AND RE- PRIORITIZING
WHATCOM COUNTY PROJECTS FOR THE WASHINGTON COMMUNITY
ECONOMIC REVITALIZATION TEAM (WA -CERT) (AB99 -095)
Nelson reported for Finance and Administrative Services Committee and stated that there
is a substitute Attachment A from committee. The first three items from that list (list 1) are: 1.
Black Mountain Forestry Center, 2. PUD #1- Nooksack Basin Water Management Model, and 3.
City of Lynden -West Lynden Infrastructure -Tromp Road Improvements.
(Clerk's Note: End of tape one, side B.)
Nelson read list 1 into the record. This came from committee with a 3 -0 vote.
Nelson moved to approve the list that came out of committee.
Hoag stated that there is a new list that includes Brenner's priorities.
Brenner stated that there is a list (the final list) that was created after her priorities were
calculated.
Regular County Council Meeting, 4/6/99, Page 11
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Hoag moved to amend the resolution by approving the final list.
Brown commented that some of the changes were done at his request. He supported the
final list.
Nelson read the final list that was brought forward. The first three projects on that list
are: 1. Black Mountain Forestry Center, 2. Sustainable Options, and 3. PUD #1.
Hoag stated that these projects are to be directed to areas that are impacted by the loss of
jobs in the fishing and timber industries. On that basis, these projects were prioritized.
Nelson stated that his concern about the final list was that priority #2 was not as
beneficial to the community as a whole. Infrastructure is one of the project categories that helps
provide an economic base and provides jobs.
Motion to amend carried 6 -1 with Nelson opposed.
Motion to approve the resolution as amended carried unanimously.
4. ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING AN INCREASE IN THE PLANNING DIVISION
PETTY CASH FUND AND ITS TRANSFER TO ADMINISTRATION FOR THE
ENTIRE DEPARTMENT (AB99 -120)
Nelson reported for Finance and Administrative Services Committee and moved to
approve.
Motion carried unanimously.
5. ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING AN INCREASE IN THE BUILDING SERVICES
DIVISION REVOLVING FUND (AB99 -121)
Nelson reported for Finance and Administrative Services Committee and moved to
approve.
Motion carried unanimously.
6. ORDINANCE INCREASING EXECUTIVE AUTHORITY TO SIGN CONTRACTS
FOR THE 2514 PROCESS (WATERSHED PLANNING) FROM $15,000 TO $50,000
(AB99 -125)
Nelson reported for Finance and Administrative Services Committee and stated that this
received a 2 -1 vote with Brown against.
Nelson moved approval.
Regular County Council Meeting, 4/6/99, Page 12
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Motion failed 2 -5 with Sutter and Nelson in favor.
Nelson announced that the Finance Committee also had a discussion regarding the
construction of a vestibule at the Courthouse South Entrance (AB99 -128).
Wareing stated that the south doors to the Courthouse are getting damaged during high
wind conditions. They are also dangerous. They need to build a vestibule to control the impact.
Imhof stated that they talked about extending the vestibule 8' -10' and placing the doors
to the east. Wareing stated that is what they recommend.
Imhof asked if it would have air movement through it. Wareing stated that it would be
closed. They would figure out how to moderate the wind effect.
Hoag asked if it would make a difference if the doors opened inward. Wareing stated
that they have to go outward due to the fire code. He explained the three options. One is just the
vestibule. The other two could incorporate weapons screening.
Hoag asked if option one could be modified for weapons screening. Wareing stated it
would be another construction project.
Hoag questioned whether it would cost more to do an added construction project.
Wareing stated that it probably would.
Nelson moved to put into committee to answer further questions.
Motion to hold in Finance Committee carried unanimously.
6A. REQUEST COUNCIL PERMISSION FOR DESTRUCTION AND REMOVAL OF
GITTS BARN (AB99 -142)
Nelson reported for Finance and Administrative Services Committee and stated that this
item was not discussed due to lack of time.
Nelson moved approval of the demolition.
Imhof stated that there is liability due to the deteriorating building.
Motion carried unanimously.
Nelson announced that in Finance Committee they also discussed the old jail building
demolition at the Northwest Annex (AB99 -143).
Regular County Council Meeting, 4/6/99, Page 13
I Wareing stated the past two budgets approved funding out of the Public Works budget for
2 a generator. They have not purchased the generator. Administration is looking at the sizing of
3 all County generators for effectiveness in a crisis situation. It would cost approximately $50,000
4 to demolish the building. They are considering removing the old generator and installing a new
5 underground electrical service to a new generator vault. At this time, they should remove the
6 generator, set it aside, demolish the building, do clean -up, and size and locate a new generator on
7 the property. He is currently asking for authorization to remove the old generator, setting it
8 aside, and demolishing the building. Then administration would come forward with another
9 proposal for installing a new generator.
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1 I Nelson moved a maximum of $110,000 for generator removal, site demolition, and clean -
12 up of the site.
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Brenner moved to refer to committee for two weeks.
Motion to refer failed 2 -5 with Hoag and Brenner in favor.
Brown questioned whether, when sizing the County generators, administration will
oversize them to allow for growth. Wareing stated that they would.
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Motion to approve $110,000 carried 6 -0 with Hoag abstaining.
CONSIDERATION OF THE APPEAL OF THE HEARING EXAMINER'S DECISION
ON PLS92 -0010. THE REQUEST IS FOR PRELIMINARY PLAT APPROVAL FOR
THE PROPOSED SUBDIVISION ( "CEDAR HILLS WEST ") OF A 39.98 ACRE
PARCEL LOCATED AT THE SOUTHERN TERMINUS OF ORIENTAL AVENUE,
JUST OUTSIDE THE CITY LIMITS OF BELLINGHAM. THE ORIGINAL
PRELIMINARY SITE PLAN PROPOSES 91 SINGLE - FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
LOTS. THE APPEAL WAS FILED BY LOIS GARLICK, PRESIDENT, ON BEHALF
OF CLEAN WATER ALLIANCE /WATERSHED DEFENSE FUND; PAGE LOEB,
BRAD REYNOLDS, AND SHERILYN WELLS. (AB99 -044)
See "Announcements."
MOTION TO RESCIND THE ORDINANCE ADOPTED AT THE MARCH 23
MEETING INITIATING AN EMERGENCY TEXT AMENDMENT TO TITLE
20.42.155, CONDITIONAL USES IN RURAL FORESTRY ZONING (AB99 -108A)
42 Karen Frakes, Senior Civil Deputy Prosecutor, stated that she refused to sign the
43 ordinance previously adopted. Two processes were confused in the adoption of that ordinance.
44 There are two procedures in Title 20. There is a procedure for initiating a text amendment out of
45 the normal process, as an emergency. That is what the Council did, and did it correctly the first
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time in the form of a resolution. The criteria for doing that are broader than the criteria for
adopting the text amendment as an emergency ordinance. The difference is that the criteria for
initiating an emergency amendment in a resolution allows it if it will economically benefit the
community. An emergency ordinance requires that it is necessary to preserve the health, safety,
and welfare of the community. That was not the intention.
Sutter stated that they have to vote to reconsider the ordinance, then rescind the
ordinance, and then re -adopt the resolution.
Frakes stated that they did not rescind the resolution.
Sutter moved for reconsideration.
Motion to reconsider carried unanimously.
Imhof moved to rescind ordinance 99 -014.
Motion carried unanimously.
The resolution stands because it was not rescinded.
9. REQUEST COUNCIL CONFIRMATION FOR EXECUTIVE TO APPOINT EGBERT
MAAS TO FILL THE VACANT POSITION ON THE WHATCOM COUNTY
HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS (AB99 -137)
Nelson moved approval.
Motion carried unanimously.
10. REQUEST AUTHORIZATION TO INITIATE NEW COUNCIL POLICY
REGARDING CORRESPONDENCE REQUIRING COMMITTEE OR COUNCIL
ACTION (AB99 -019)
Dawson stated that she brought this up regarding council correspondence. Some Council
members get the same letter from someone, and more than one Council member addresses the
issues in the letter. She suggested that Council staff look at correspondence, note that an item is
going to a committee chair, who will decide what to do with it. This is just for correspondence
that requests a problem is resolved. All Council members will still get all of their mail, but some
of the mail will be noted.
Dawson so moved approval of the new policy.
Motion carried unanimously.
Regular County Council Meeting, 4/6/99, Page 15
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INTRODUCTION ITEMS
Imhof moved to accept the Introduction Items.
Motion carried unanimously.
1. RECEIPT OF AN APPEAL OF THE HEARING EXAMINER'S DECISION ON FILE
NUMBER CUP98 -0038. THE REQUEST IS TO CONSTRUCT A 20,000 SQUARE
FOOT BUILDING TO BE USED IN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION. THE
APPEAL WAS FILED BY LESA STARKENBURG- KROONTJE FOR DARI -TECH
(AB99 -093)
2. ORDINANCE TO RECLASSIFY THE SOLID WASTE FUND FROM AN
ENTERPRISE FUND TO A SPECIAL REVENUE FUND (AB99 -138)
3. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE SALE OF WHATCOM COUNTY SURPLUS
PROPERTY PURSUANT TO WHATCOM COUNTY CODE 1.10 (AB99 -133A)
REPORTS AND OTHER ITEMS FROM COUNCIL MEMBERS
Dawson reminded everyone of the work session with Monsen on April 15.
Dawson also stated that the Washington State Association of Counties (WSAC)
requested support from Council on items WSAC support. Staff could inform Council members
of the issues rather than allowing a blanket approval.
Imhof stated that there was a WSAC district meeting last week. Whatcom County will
sponsor the district meeting next year. Also, the marine sanctuary issue has come up again and
will be before the Council.
Sutter reminded that there is a Health Board meeting the following week. Also, over the
last year, she has met with a group, North Sound Connecting Communities Project, which works
on an integrated public transportation system for the I -5 corridor. The major project now is to
have information kiosks to direct people to other modes of transportation. It would create a
seamless transportation system. This is a good example of a public /private partnership.
Also, the last two Planning Committee meetings had a presentation from Bob
Andersen, David Evans and Associates, regarding a proposed wetland mitigation banking
system (AB99 -119). Their next step is to get buy -in from various agencies.
Hoag stated that she appreciated the work Dawson and Imhof have been doing with
WSAC.
Regular County Council Meeting, 4/6/99, Page 16
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Brenner stated that the Public Works Committee had discussion regarding whether the
cutback of KVOS news service effects their ability to fulfill the legal obligation to Whatcom
County to provide local news (AB99 -140). The County Council has an obligation to speak up
when losing local programming from all sources, not just KVOS. There has been less and less
local programming over the years. It is not in the best interest of the community. She suggested
using the Council or committees as a bully pulpit.
Also, she went to the opening of the Farmer's Market over the weekend. It is wonderful.
ADJOURN
The meeting adjourned at 9:15 p.m.
Jill Nixon, Minutes Transcription
These minutes were approved by Council on , 1999.
ATTEST: WHATCOM COUNTY COUNCIL
WHATCOM COUNTY, WASHINGTON
Dana Brown - Davis, Council Clerk Marlene Dawson, Council Chair
Regular County Council Meeting, 4/6/99, Page 17