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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2006 - City of Bellingham May 16,2006 Greenways III Levy Prop 1 Passed 58.82%inC�Wo-q S LeVC,-Pr0pCrSLrhbm NO -I -K)q��LW -P e� 5 �. ga �o O -_] UW u- O U U W D O �W Z Ia- W ' O �� �> � J O Q LL � D W U WLU r� OWC O � p O v 0° U r- W w u� J C/) �-- m o t3 � N FINANCE DEPARTMENTL��o City Hall, 210 Lottie Street Bellingham, Washington 98225 Telephone: (360) 676-6900 Fax: (360) 738-7500 Therese Holm, Finance Director March 28, 2006 Shirley Forslof Office of the Whatcom County Auditor 311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103 Bellingham, WA 98225 RE: City of Bellingham Proposition No. 1 Greenways III Levy Dear Ms. Forslof: As Finance Director for the City of Bellingham, I hereby transmit the attached certified copy of Ordinance #2006-03-033 continuing the Greenway Program. The Ordinance includes Proposition No. 1 for the Greenways III Levy for submission to the voters of the City of Bellingham at the next general election on May 16, 2006. The language for Proposition No. 1 reads: CITY OF BELLINGHAM PROPOSITION NO. 1 GREENWAYS III LEVY The City of Bellingham's Proposition No. 1 concerns a Greenways Levy for greenways, open space, parks and trails. For the purpose of funding the acquisition, development and maintenance of greenways, open space, parks and trails, this proposition would authorize the City to increase its regular property tax levy up to $2.49 per $1,000 (representing a continuation of $0.57 per $1,000 of assessed value) for collection in 2007, and to levy the additional amount for nine succeeding years together with annual increases thereon as allowed under RCW 84.55. Should this proposition by approved? Yes .............../ / No .............../ / This Ordinance was passed by the Bellingham City Council on Monday, March 13, 2006. Ms. Forslof March 28, 2006 Page 2 Please provide written acknowledgement that this ballot proposition is in proper form and will be submitted to the voters at the May 16, 2006 election. Thank you for your assistance in this matter. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me. Yours very truly, ierese Holm Finance Director 4�� Enclosure: City of Bellingham Ordinance #2006-03-033, which includes Proposition No. 1 Received at Whatcom County Auditor's Office: /V- - DG (date) Print Name: Signature: s• CERTIFICATE hereby certify that the foregoing is a full, true and complete copy of Devi` ate' o3j as the same appears on record in use t1 ii+; of the City Clerks Finance Department of the City of Bel ra Washirntorl Deputy City Clerk ORDINANCE NO.2006--03-033 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BELLINGHAM CONTINUING THE GREENWAY PROGRAM AND RELATING TO ADDITIONAL REGULAR PROPERTY TAXES, PROVIDING FOR THE SUBMISSION TO THE QUALIFIED VOTERS OF THE CITY AT A SPECIAL ELECTION ON MAY 16, 2006, OF A PROPOSITION AUTHORIZING THE CITY TO INCREASE ITS REGULAR PROPERTY TAX LEVY TO $2.49 PER THOUSAND (REPRESENTING A CONTINUATION OF $0.57 PER $1,000) OF ASSESSED VALUATION ON ALL TAXABLE PROPERTY WITHIN THE CITY FOR COLLECTION IN 2007 AND TO INCREASE ITS LEVY FOR EACH OF THE NINE SUCCEEDING YEARS THEREAFTER AS ALLOWED BY RCW 84.55, TO PROVIDE AN ESTIMATED AMOUNT OF TAX REVENUES FOR THE PURPOSE OF ACQUISITION, DEVELOPMENT, IMPROVEMENT, AND MAINTENANCE OF GREENWAYS, OPEN SPACE, PARKS, AND TRAILS. WHEREAS, Bellingham residents passed a Greenways Levy in 1990 and a Beyond Greenways Levy in 1997 to acquire and develop parks, trails, and open spaces; and WHEREAS, during the past 15 years, Bellingham residents have paid nearly $27 million towards the acquisition of 500 acres of parks, miles of trails, and other recreation projects; and WHEREAS, matching grant funds and donations have yielded an -additional $3.8 million in Greenway development fiends and over $8 million in Greenway acquisition funds; and WHEREAS, the most recent Beyond Greenways levy is set to expire in 2006 and residents must decide how to shape the future of its parks and greenway systems and whether to continue the funding of the greenway program; and WHEREAS, the City's Greenway Advisory Board has identified additional land acquisitions and park development projects that will expand and complete the Greenways system; and WHEREAS, the City's Park Advisory Board unanimously supports continuation of the Greenway program; and Greenways Levy Ordinance- 1 dm/Ordinaace/Greenways 3.13.06 City of Bellingham CTTY ATTORNEY 210 Lottie Street Bellingham, Washington 98225 Telephone (360) 676-6903 _4&� WHEREAS, Bellingham continues to grow at a rapid rate and there are developers and property owners who support public acquisition of key properties critical to the completion of Greenway corridors; and WHEREAS, numerous citizens, local organizations, and civic leaders have expressed support for the continuation of a levy to provide fiends for the continuing acquisition, development, improvement, and maintenance of current and future greenways, parks, trails, open space; and WHEREAS, the City also recognizes the need to provide funds for the acquisition, maintenance, improvement, and development of the City's existing and future park facilities; and WHEREAS, presentations have been made to City neighborhoods, to the Bellingham Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, to the City's Greenways Advisory Committee, and to all elected City of Bellingham officials on the need for continuing greenways preservation and the importance of considering the passage of a third greenways levy to achieve that purpose; and WHEREAS, the City has adopted the 2002 Park, Recreation and Open Space Plan, based on community wide meetings, citizen input and a community survey; and WHEREAS, on February 8, 2006, City Council conducted a Public Hearing to facilitate public input; and WHEREAS, the City conducted a statistically valid phone survey of 400 households to assist the City Council in making a Greenway's decision; and WHEREAS, in order to pay the costs of developing, improving and maintaining parks, trails, and open space it is necessary that the City institute a levy and use the proceeds of a temporary increase of the regular tax levy rate of the City as authorized by RCW 84.55.050; and WHEREAS, it is intended that these funds will be collected in 10 years; and WHEREAS, nothing in such levy would relieve private developers or others from obligations otherwise existing in applicable State and local development, subdivision, and shoreline laws, regulations, and ordinances; and WHEREAS, State law, RCW 84.55.050, requires that the question of whether the City may collect such levy be submitted to the qualified voters of the city for ratification or rejection. Greenways Levy Ordinance- 2 City of Bellingham klm/Ordinaace/Greenways 3.13.06 CYrYATFORNEY 210 Lottie Street Bellingham, Washington 98225 Telephone (360) 676-6903 NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY OF BELLINGHAM DOES ORDAIN as follows: Section 1. TindinV. A. The general fund of the City of Bellingham does not have sufficient resources to provide for the acquisition of additional greenways, open space, parks, and trails nor does it have sufficient funds for the development, maintenance and improvement of those and existing City properties. B. The City Council recognizes the need to provide funds for the acquisition, improvement, development and maintenance of the City's existing and future park facilities. C. The City Council desires to continue the Greenways Program by submitting to the voters a third Greenways levy which will replace the current levy and is based upon the same $.57 per $1,000 of assessed valuation as both previous Greenways levies. D. The City Council finds and declares that it is in the best interests of the City that its voters have an opportunity to vote on the question of whether to acquire, improve, develop and maintain greenways, open space, parks, and trails , the cost of which is to be paid from an increase in the City's regular property tax levy above the limitations established in RCW 84.55.010 for a period of 10 years commencing in the year 2007. E. The City Council finds and declares that an emergency exists requiring the submission to the qualified electors of the City the proposition whether the City shall levy regular property taxes above the limitation established in RCW 84.55.010 for their ratification or rejection at a special election on May 16, 2006. Section 2. Use of Funds: It is intended that proceeds from the additional tax levied pursuant to this ordinance shall be applied to acquire, improve, develop and maintain greenways, open space, parks, and trails as outlined in Exhibit A, the Greenways III Expenditure Guideline Summary and in Resolution No 200E-06 related to policies for implementation of the Greenways Levy III Program . Interest earnings on such proceeds shall also be applied to these purposes. The allocations are intended to be as follows: A. Land Acquisitions: Approximately 60% of the proceeds and interest of the levy are intended to be dedicated to land acquisition. B. Development and Improvement: Approximately 31% of the proceeds and interest of the levy are intended to be dedicated to the development and improvement of parks and greenways properties. Greenways Levy Ordinance- 3 City of Bellingham UnVOrdinance/Greenways 3.13.06 CITY ATTORNEY 210 Lottie Street Bellingham, Washington 98225 Telephone (360) 676-6903 C. Greenways Preservation Endowment: Approximately 9% of the proceeds of the levy are intended to be set aside to accrue interest. Interest earnings are to be spent on the maintenance of properties acquired or developed with current or prior Greenway levy funds. D. Funds raised thereby shall also be used for all administrative and implementation costs to the City in carrying out this program. E. The above described program components are only illustrative guidelines for implementation of the Greenways III program. In the annual city budget or by separate ordinance, the city shall from year to year determine the budget and allocations among the program components, change the scope of activities or the emphasis, and within a budget year reallocate unexpended and unencumbered funds from one program to another. Proceeds and appropriations unexpended at the end of any budget year shall automatically be carried over to the next budget year. Section 3. Election -Ballot Title. The City Council requests that the Auditor of Whatcom County, as ex officio supervisor of elections, find the existence of an emergency pursuant to RCW 29A 04.330 (2) and call and conduct a special election in the City on May 16, 2006, for the purpose of submitting to the qualified voters of the City for their approval the proposition authorizing the City to increase its regular property tax levy to $2.49 per thousand (representing a continuation of $0.57 per thousand) of assessed valuation on all of the taxable property within the City, for collection in 2007 and to increase such levy for each of the nine succeeding years as allowed by RCW 84.55 to be used for the cost of parks, greenway, trail, and open space property acquisition, development, and maintenance as set forth in this ordinance. The City Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to certify to the County Auditor of Whatcom County, Washington, as ex officio supervisor of elections, at least 45 days prior to the May 16, 2006, election date, a copy of this ordinance and the proposition to be submitted at that election in the form of a ballot title in the following form pursuant to RCW 29A.36.071: Greenways Levy Ordinance- 4 City of Bellingham klm/Ordinance/Greenways 3.13.06 CITY ATTORNHY 210 Lottle Street Bellingham, Washington 98225 Telephone (360) 676-6903 CITY OF BELLINGHAM PROPOSITION NO. 1 GREENWAYS III LEVY The City of Bellingham's Proposition No. 1 concerns a Greenways Levy for greenways, open space, parks, and trails. For the purpose of funding the acquisition, development, and maintenance of greenways, open space, parks, and trails, this proposition would authorize the City to increase its regular property tax levy up to $2.49 per $1,000 (representing a continuation of $0.57 per $1,000 of assessed value) for collection in 2007, and to levy the additional amount for nine succeeding years together with annual increases thereon as allowed under RCW 84.55. Should this proposition be approved? YES ................./ / NO.............J / PASSED by Council this 13thay of March Council APPROVED by me this,&'aay of d4 2006. - IN-0 -(/ A t _�_ �_ Mayor Director 3reenways Levy Ordinance- 5 City of Bellingham dni/Ordinance/Qreenways 3.13.06 CITYATTORNEY 210 Lottie Street Bellingham, Washington 98225 Telephone (360) 676-6903 I S. Approved as to Form: the Published: March 17, 2006 Greenways Levy Ordinance- 6 klm/Ordinance/Greenways 3.13.06 City of Bellingham CITY ATTORNEY 210 Lottie Street Bellingham, Washington 98225 Telephone (360) 676-6903 GREENIWAYSIII - Expenditure Guideline Summary March 13, 2006 Description Expense by Activity Greenways Acquis- Develop- (Values in $ millions) Preservation Total ition I ment Endowment Major New Greenway Acquisitions Northside Property Acquisitions $ 12.1 $ 12.1 Souhside Property Acquisitions $ 6.0 $ 6.0 Undesignated Property Acquisitions $ 2.0 $ 2.0 j Project Completions Complete Phase 2 future Squalicum Creek Park $ 4.7 $ 4.7 Complete future Northridge Park $ 1.0 $ 1.0 Future Waterfront Redevelopment Area Trail $ 4.0 $ 4.0 Chuckanut/Interurban Trail improvements $ 1.0 $ 1.0 Extend Bay -To -Baker Trail $ 2.9 $ 2.8 Complete future Samish Crest Hiking Trail $ 1.5 $ 1.5 Whatcom Creek Trail Greenway $ 1.0 $ 1.0 ; Heritage Parks Improvements Cornwall Park/Squalicum Creek Expansion $ 1.0 $ 1.0 Lake Padden Park trail & field improvements $ 1.0 $ 1.0 Whatcom Falls Park trail improvements $ 0.5 L $ 0.5 Boulevard Park trail & beach improvements $ 1.5 $ 1.5 Greenways Preservation Endowment $ 4.2 i $ 4.2 Totalsl 44.3 $ 26.4 $ 13.7 $ 4.2 Project Expense Percentages $Q% 310/o 9010 Total Budget $ 44.3 WHATCOM COUNTY AUDITOR'S OFFICE OFFICIAL CANVASS OF THE SPECIAL ELECTION HELD TUESDAY, MAY 16, 2006, IN THE CITY OF BELLINGHAM, WHATCOM COUNTY, WASHINGTON, FOR THE PURPOSE OF SUBMITTING TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF THE CITY THE PROPOSITION CONCERNING A GREENWAYS III LEVY FOR THE PUPOSE OF FUNDING THE ACQUISITION, DEVELOPMENT, AND MAINTENANCE OF GREENWAYS, OPEN SPACE, PARKS AND TRAILS. OATH OF AUDITOR STATE OF WASHINGTON) ) ss. COUNTY OF WHATCOM ) I do solemnly swear that the City of Bellingham, from the Spec altered by additions or erasures, deposited in my office. returns purporting to be the election returns of The al Election held on May 16, 2006, have not been and that they are the same as when they were Whatcom?" unty Auditor to before me this 26th day of May 2006. Whatcom County Legislative AuthQrlw. CERTIFICATION OF CANVASSING BOARD ~ C3- Q e ©u €a rY STATE OF WASHINGTON) ".S� Ar �o ss. .� COUNTY OF WHATCOM ) THIS IS TO CERTIFY THAT WE, as the Whatcom County Canvassing Committee have completed the canvass of votes as it pertains to the Special Election held in the precincts within the boundaries of the City of Bellingham on the 16th day of May 2006 and the results are as follows: CITY OF BELLINGHAM PROPOSITION NO. 1 GREENWAYS III LEVY The City of Bellingham's Proposition No. 1 concerns a Greenways Levy for greenways, open space, parks and trails. For the purpose of funding the acquisition, development and maintenance of greenways, open space, parks and trails, this proposition would authorize the City to increase its regular property tax levy up to $2.49 per $1,000 (representing a continuation of $0.57 per $1,000 of assessed value) for collection in 2007, and to levy the additional amount for nine succeeding years together with annual increases thereon as allowed under RW 84.55. Should this proposition be approved? Yes........./ / No........../ / APPROVED — YES 10,231 REJECTED — NO 7,162 Proposition passed 58.82% The canvass has been completed this 26t" day of May 2006. WHATCOM COUNTY CANVASSING BOARD County Au ' or County Legislative Authority COWITY .� ;TATE oF$ IN Whatcom County Auditor's Office Whatcom County Courthouse 311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103 Bellingham, WA 98225-4186 360.676.6740 360-738.4556 FAX 360-738-4555 TTY aud1tor@co.whatcom.wa.us whatcom.wa.uslauditor ELECTIONS RESULTS RECEIPT Date: May 26, 2006 Elections Department A copy of the City of Bellingham, Proposition No. 1, Greenways III Levy election results has been delivered to the Treasurer's Office and the Assessor's Office. Receipt Acknowledged: TREASURER'S OFFICE Nam D ASSESSOR'S OFFICE Name Date I:\ NEWTolicies & Procedures\Initiatives & Petitions\InitiativesTRM RECEIPT_Treas_Assess.DOC Whatcom County Auditor's Office Whatcom County Courthouse 311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103 Bellingham, WA 98225.4186 360.676.6740 360.738-4556 FAX 360-738-4555 TTY and itor&o.whatconn.wa.us whatconn.wa.us/auditor ELECTIONS RESULTS RECEIPT Date: May 26, 2006 Elections Department A copy of the City of Bellingham, Proposition No. 1, Greenways III Levy election results has been delivered to the City of Bellingham. Receipt Acknowledged: CITY OF BELLINGHAM ame �q' env � Date I:\ NEWTolicies & Procedures\Initiatives & Petitions\InitiativesTRM RECEIPT_CITY.DOC NOTICE OF RECEIPT (pursuant to RCW 29A.36.080) The County Auditor hereby acknowledges receipt of the following proposition: CITY OF BELLINGHAM PROPOSITION NO. 1 GREENWAYS III LEVY The City of Bellingham's Proposition No. 1 concerns a Greenways Levy for greenways, open space, parks and trails. For the purpose of funding the acquisition, development and maintenance of greenways, open space, parks and trails, this proposition would authorize the City to increase its regular property tax levy up to $2.49 per $1,000 (representing a continuation of $0.57 per $1,000 of assessed value) for collection in 2007, and to levy the additional amount for nine succeeding years together with annual increases thereon as allowed under RCW 84.55. Should this proposition be approved? Yes........../ / No........../ / Shirley Forslof aunty Auditor FINANCE DEPARTMENT City Hall, 210 Lottie Street Bellingham, Washington 98225 Telephone: (360) 676-6900 Fax: (360) 738-7500 Therese Holm, Finance Director April 3, 2006 Shirley Forslof Office of the Whatcom County Auditor 311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103 Bellingham, WA 98225 RE: Revised Ballot Title for Greenways III Levy to correct typographical error to second to last word in ballot title from "by" to "be" Dear Ms. Forslof: As Finance Director for the City of Bellingham, I hereby transmit the attached certified copy of Ordinance #2006-03-033 continuing the Greenway Program. The Ordinance includes Proposition No. 1 for the Greenways III Levy for submission to the voters of the City of Bellingham at the next general election on May 16, 2006. The language for Proposition No. 1 reads: CITY OF BELLINGHAM PROPOSITION NO. 1 GREENWAYS III LEVY The City of Bellingham's Proposition No. 1 concerns a Greenways Levy for greenways, open space, parks and trails. For the purpose of funding the acquisition, development and maintenance of greenways, open space, parks and trails, this proposition would authorize the City to increase its regular property tax levy up to $2.49 per $1,000 (representing a continuation of $0.57 per $1,000 of assessed value) for collection in 2007, and to levy the additional amount for nine succeeding years together with annual increases thereon as allowed under RCW 84.55. Should this proposition be approved? Yes .............../ / No .............../ / This Ordinance was passed by the Bellingham City Council on Monday, March 13, 2006. Ms. Forslof April 3, 2006 Page 2 Please provide written acknowledgement that this ballot proposition is in proper form and will be submitted to the voters at the May 16, 2006 election. Thank you for your assistance in this matter. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me. Yours very truly, Therese Holm Finance Director Enclosure: City of Bellingham Ordinance #2006-03-033, which includes Proposition No. 1 Received at Whatcom County Auditor's Office: ezla /4 �i T d re) Print Name: L . Signatur WHATCOM COUNTY AUDITOR'S OFFICE Whatcom County Courthouse 311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103 Bellingham, WA 98225-4038 Email: Auditor@co.whatcom.wa.us Internet: www.co.whatcom.wa.us/auditor April 3, 2006 Therese Holm, Finance Director City of Bellingham 210 Lottie Street Bellingham WA 98225 RE: City of Bellingham Proposition No. 1, Greenways III Levy Dear Therese: SHIRLEY FORSLOF COUNTY AUDITOR DEBBIE ADELSTEIN CHIEF DEPUTY Phone: 360-676-6740 FAX: 360-738-4556 I am in receipt of a certified copy of City of Bellingham Ordinance #2006-03-033 continuing the Greenway Program that you filed with my staff on March 29, 2006. You included the ballot title which under RCW 29A.36.071 your city attorney is required to prepare. You asked that I provide written acknowledgement that this ballot proposition is in proper form but that is the obligation of your city attorney. I only acknowledge receipt of it. See the attached Notice of Receipt. I do note that you may want to review the question at the end of the title: "Should this proposition by approved?" Please submit a revised title if you want this changed to "be". As requested, this proposition will be submitted to the voters of the City of Bellingham at the May 16 Special Election. Sincerely, Shirley Forslof Whatcom County Auditor Received at the City of Bellingham Finance Director's Office Print Name �r Signature Licensing Recording Elections Administration/Internal Audit Licensing@comhatcomma.us Recording@comhatcomma us Eledions@comhatcom.wa.us 360-676-6744 360-676-6740 360-676-6740 360-676-6742 360-676-6740 ext50065 360-738-4555 NOTICE OF RECEIPT (pursuant to RCW 29A.36.080) The County Auditor hereby acknowledges receipt of the following proposition: CITY OF BELLINGHAM PROPOSITION NO. 1 GREENWAYS III LEVY The City of Bellingham's Proposition No. 1 concerns a Greenways Levy for greenways, open space, parks and trails. For the purpose of funding the acquisition, development and maintenance of greenways, open space, parks and trails, this proposition would authorize the City to increase its regular property tax levy up to $2.49 per $1,000 (representing a continuation of $0.57 per $1,000 of assessed value) for collection in 2007, and to levy the additional amount for nine succeeding years together with annual increases thereon as allowed under RCW 84.55. Should this proposition by approved? Yes........../ / No........../ / Shirley Forsla County Auditor � Pq FINANCE DEPARTMENT 12Q� City Hall, 210 Lottie Street Bellingham, Washington 98225 Telephone: (360) 676-6900 Fax: (360) 738-7500 Therese Holm, Finance Director March 28, 2006 Shirley Forslof Office of the Whatcom County Auditor 311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103 Bellingham, WA 98225 RE: City of Bellingham Proposition No. 1 Greenways III Levy Dear Ms. Forslof As Finance Director for the City of Bellingham, I hereby transmit the attached certified copy of Ordinance #2006-03-033 continuing the Greenway Program. The Ordinance includes Proposition No. 1 for the Greenways III Levy for submission to the voters of the City of Bellingham at the next general election on May 16, 2006. The language for Proposition No. 1 reads: CITY OF BELLINGHAM PROPOSITION NO. 1 GREENWAYS III LEVY The City of Bellingham's Proposition No. 1 concerns a Greenways Levy for greenways, open space, parks and trails. For the purpose of funding the acquisition, development and maintenance of greenways, open space, parks and trails, this proposition would authorize the City to increase its regular property tax levy up to $2.49 per $1,000 (representing a continuation of $0.57 per $1,000 of assessed value) for collection in 2007, and to levy the additional amount for nine succeeding years together with annual increases thereon as allowed under RCW 84.55. Should this proposition by approved? Yes .............../ / No .............../ / This Ordinance was passed by the Bellingham City Council on Monday, March 13, 2006. Ms. Forslof March 28, 2006 Page 2 Please provide written acknowledgement that this ballot proposition is in proper form and will be submitted to the voters at the May 16, 2006 election. Thank you for your assistance in this matter. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me. Yours very truly, v— 4�� lezrese Holm Finance Director Enclosure: City of Bellingham Ordinance #2006-03-033, which includes Proposition No. 1 Received at Whatcom County Auditor's Office: � 2 -16 G {da(e} Print Name:C rL )1`r-1 )L) Signature: Approved as to Form: the Published: March 17, 2006 Greenways Levy Ordinance- 6 City of Bellingham klm/ordinance/Greenways 3.13.06 CITYATTORNEY 210 Lottie Street Bellingham, Washington 98225 Telephone (360) 676-6903 GREENW4YS'III - Expenditure Guideline Summary March 13, 2006 Description Expense by Activity Greenways Acquis- Develop- (Values in $ millions) Preservation Total ition ment Endowment Major New Greenway Acquisitions Northside Property Acquisitions $ 12.1 $ 12.1 Southside Property Acquisitions $ 6.0 $ 6.0 Undesignated Property Acquisitions $ 2.0 $ 2.0 t Project Completions Complete Phase 2 future Squalicum Creek Park $ 4.7 $ 4.7 Complete future Northridge Park $ 1.0 $ 1.0 Future Waterfront Redevelopment Area Trail $ 4.0 $ 4.0 Chuckanut/Interurban Trail improvements $ 1.0 $ 1.0 Extend Bay -To -Baker Trail $ 2.8 $ 2.8 Complete future Samish Crest Hiking Trail $ 1.5 $ 1.5 i Whatcom Creek Trail Greenway $ 1.0 $ 1.0 Heritage Parks Improvements Cornwall Park/Squalicum Creek Expansion $ 1.0 $ 1.0 Lake Padden Park trail & field improvements $ 1.0 $ 1.0 Whatcom Falls Park trail improvements $ 0.5 $ 0.5 Boulevard Park trail & beach improvements $ 1.5 $ 1.5 Greenways Preservation Endowment $ 4.2 s $ 4.2 Totals $ 44.3 $ 26.4 $ 13.7 $ 4.2 Project Expense Percentages 600/0 310/o a010 Total Budget $ 44.3 CITY OF BELLINGHAM PROPOSITION NO. 1 GREENWAYS III LEVY The City of Belling am's Proposition No. 1 concerns a Greenways Levy for greenways, open space, parks, and trails. For the purpose of funding the acquisition, development, and maintenance of greenways, open space, parks, and trails, this proposition would authorize the City to increase its regular property tax levy up to $2.49 per $1,000 (representing a continuation of $0.57 per $1,000 of assessed value) for collection in 2007, and to levy the additional amount for nine succeeding years together with annual increases thereon as allowed under RCW 84.55. Should this proposition be approved? YES ................./ / NO .............../ / PASSED by Council this 13thay of March Council APPROVED by me this,&'�a—y of a - 2006. 144411 Mayor Director Greenways Levy Ordinance- 5 City of Bellingham kInVOrdinaneeK3reenways 3.11.06 CITY ATTORNEY 210 Lottie Street Bellingham, Washington 98225 Telephone (360) 676-6903 FINANCE DEPARTMENT City Hall, 210 Lottie Street Bellingham, Washington 98225 Telephone: (360) 676-6900 Fax: (360) 738-7500 Therese Holm, Finance Director March 28, 2006 Shirley Forslof Office of the Whatcom County Auditor 311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103 Bellingham, WA 98225 RE: City of Bellingham Proposition No. 1 Greenways III Levy Dear Ms. Forslof: As Finance Director for the City of Bellingham, I hereby transmit the attached certified copy of Ordinance #2006-03-033 continuing the Greenway Program. The Ordinance includes Proposition No. 1 for the Greenways III Levy for submission to the voters of the City of Bellingham at the next general election on May 16, 2006. The language for Proposition No. 1 reads: CITY OF BELLINGHAM PROPOSITION NO. 1 GREENWAYS III LEVY The City of Bellingham's Proposition No. 1 concerns a Greenways Levy for greenways, open space, parks and trails. For the purpose of funding the acquisition, development and maintenance of greenways, open space, parks and trails, this proposition would authorize the City to increase its regular property tax levy up to $2.49 per $1,000 (representing a continuation of $0.57 per $1,000 of assessed value) for collection in 2007, and to levy the additional amount for nine succeeding years together with annual increases thereon as allowed under RCW 84.55. Should this proposition by approved? Yes .............../ / No .............../ / This Ordinance was passed by the Bellingham City Council on Monday, March 13, 2006. Ms. Forslof March 28, 2006 Page 2 Please provide written acknowledgement that this ballot proposition is in proper form and will be submitted to the voters at the May 16, 2006 election. Thank you for your assistance in this matter. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me. Yours very truly, terese Holm Finance Director Enclosure: City of Bellingham Ordinance #2006-03-033, which includes Proposition No. Received at Whatcom County Auditor's Office: /2,4/0 ( (date) Print Name: 1!5T6�dz 5. C Signature: WHATCOM COUNTY AUDITOR'S OFFICE Whatcom County Courthouse 311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103 Bellingham, WA 98225-4038 Email: Auditor@co.whatcom.wa.us Internet: www.co.whatcom.wa.us/auditor April 3, 2006 Therese Holm, Finance Director City of Bellingham 210 Lottie Street Bellingham WA 98225 G RE: City of Bellingham Proposition No. 1, Greenways III Levy Dear Therese: SHIRLEY FORSLOF COUNTY AUDITOR DEBBIE ADELSTEIN CHIEF DEPUTY Phone: 360-676-6740 FAX: 360-738-4556 I am in receipt of a certified copy of City of Bellingham Ordinance #2006-03-033 continuing the Greenway Program that you filed with my staff on March 29, 2006. You included the ballot title which under RCW 29A.36.071 your city attorney is required to prepare. You asked that I provide written acknowledgement that this ballot proposition is in proper form but that is the obligation of your city attorney. I only acknowledge receipt of it. See the attached Notice of Receipt. I do note that you may want to review the question at the end of the title: "Should this proposition by approved?" Please submit a revised title if you want this changed to "be". As requested, this proposition will be submitted to the voters of the City of Bellingham at the May 16 Special Election. Sincerely, Shirley F orslof Whatcom County Auditor Received at the City of Bellingham Finance Director's Office Print Name Signature Licensing Recording Elections Administration/Internal Audit Licensing@comhatcom.wa.us Recording@co.whatcornma.us Eledions@co.whatcornma.us 360-676-6744 360-676-6740 360-676-6740 360-676-6742 360-676-6740 ext 50065 TTY 360-738-4555 NOTICE OF RECEIPT (pursuant to RCW 29A.36.080) The County Auditor hereby acknowledges receipt of the following proposition: CITY OF BELLINGHAM PROPOSITION NO. 1 GREENWAYS III LEVY The City of Bellingham's Proposition No. 1 concerns a Greenways Levy for greenways, open space, parks and trails. For the purpose of funding the acquisition, development and maintenance of greenways, open space, parks and trails, this proposition would authorize the City to increase its regular property tax levy up to $2.49 per $1,000 (representing a continuation of $0.57 per $1,000 of assessed value) for collection in 2007, and to levy the additional amount for nine succeeding years together with annual increases thereon as allowed under RCW 84.55. Should this proposition by approved? Yes........../ No........../ / Shirley Forslo County Auditor ti => 7 FINANCE DEPARTMENT City Hall, 210 Lottie Street Bellingham, Washington 98225 ��, �,�� Telephone: (360) 676-6900 Fax: (360) 738-7500 �'1 N Therese Holm, Finance Director March 28, 2006 Shirley Forslof Office of the Whatcom County Auditor 311 Grand Avenue, Suite 103 Bellingham, WA 98225 RE: City of Bellingham Proposition No. 1 Greenways III Levy Dear Ms. Forslof: As Finance Director for the City of Bellingham, I hereby transmit the attached certified copy of Ordinance #2006-03-033 continuing the Greenway Program. The Ordinance includes Proposition No. 1 for the Greenways III Levy for submission to the voters of the City of Bellingham at the next general election on May 16, 2006. The language for Proposition No. 1 reads: CITY OF BELLINGHAM PROPOSITION NO. 1 GREENWAYS III LEVY The City of Bellingham's Proposition No. 1 concerns a Greenways Levy for greenways, open space, parks and trails. For the purpose of funding the acquisition, development and maintenance of greenways, open space, parks and trails, this proposition would authorize the City to increase its regular property tax levy up to $2.49 per $1,000 (representing a continuation of $0.57 per $1,000 of assessed value) for collection in 2007, and to levy the additional amount for nine succeeding years together with annual increases thereon as allowed under RCW 84.55. Should this proposition by approved? Yes .............../ / No ....... ........ / / This Ordinance was passed by the Bellingham City Council on Monday, March 13, 2006. Ms. Forslof March 28, 2006 Page 2 Please provide written acknowledgement that this ballot proposition is in proper form and will be submitted to the voters at the May 16, 2006 election. Thank you for your assistance in this matter. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me. Yours very truly, greolm Finance Director Enclosure: City of Bellingham Ordinance #2006-03-033, which includes Proposition No. 1 Received at Whatcom County Auditor's Office: �` 2 (date) Print Name: �57,�g j-, C a l FTr)x) Signature: All h hCERTIFICATE T hereby ceo #hat�flid.fbregoing is a full, true and cornple b copy of m rev avid '�3 as the sarnG' Rp ef5`?ati racilyd in ;lie f the City Clerk, Fins nae Djg),:tment of the C iy of Bell na , �d th' on't P, City Clerk ORDINANCE NO.2006--03-033 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BELLINGHAM CONTINUING THE GREENWAY PROGRAM AND RELATING TO ADDITIONAL REGULAR PROPERTY TAXES, PROVIDING FOR THE SUBMISSION TO THE QUALIFIED VOTERS OF THE CITY AT A SPECIAL ELECTION ON MAY 16, 2006, OF A PROPOSITION AUTHORIZING THE CITY TO INCREASE ITS REGULAR PROPERTY TAX LEVY TO $2.49 PER THOUSAND (REPRESENTING A CONTINUATION OF $0.57 PER $1,000) OF ASSESSED VALUATION ON ALL TAXABLE PROPERTY WITHIN THE CITY FOR COLLECTION IN 2007 AND TO INCREASE ITS LEVY FOR EACH OF THE NINE SUCCEEDING YEARS THEREAFTER AS ALLOWED BY RCW 84.55, TO PROVIDE AN ESTIMATED AMOUNT OF TAX REVENUES FOR THE PURPOSE OF ACQUISITION, DEVELOPMENT, IMPROVEMENT, AND MAINTENANCE OF GREENWAYS, OPEN SPACE, PARKS, AND TRAILS. WHEREAS, Bellingham residents passed a Greenways Levy in 1990 and a Beyond Greenways Levy in 1997 to acquire and develop parks, trails, and open spaces; and WHEREAS, during the past 15 years, Bellingham residents have paid nearly $27 million towards the acquisition of 500 acres of parks, miles of trails, and other recreation projects; and WHEREAS, matching grant funds and donations have yielded an -additional $3.8 million. in Greenway development funds and over $8 million in Greenway acquisition funds; and WHEREAS, the most recent Beyond Greenways levy is set to expire in 2006 and residents must decide how to shape the future of its parks and greenway systems and whether to continue the funding of the greenway program; and WHEREAS, the City's Greenway Advisory Board has identified additional land acquisitions and park development projects that will expand and complete the Greenways system; and WHEREAS, the City's Park Advisory Board unanimously supports continuation of the Greenway program; and Greenways Levy Ordinance- 1 klm/Ordinance/Greenways 3.13,06 City of Bellingham CYN ATTORNEY 210 Lottie Street Bellingham, Washington 98225 Telephone (360) 676-6903 WHEREAS, Bellingham continues to grow at a rapid rate and there are developers and property owners who support public acquisition of key properties critical to the completion of Greenway corridors; and WHEREAS, numerous citizens, local organizations, and civic leaders have expressed support for the continuation of a levy to provide fiends for the continuing acquisition, development, improvement, and maintenance of current and future greenways, parks, trails, open space; and WHEREAS, the City also recognizes the need to provide funds for the acquisition, maintenance, improvement, and development of the City's existing and future park facilities; and WHEREAS, presentations have been made to City neighborhoods, to the Bellingham Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, to the City's Greenways Advisory Committee, and to all elected City of Bellingham officials on the need for continuing greenways preservation and the importance of considering the passage of a third greenways levy to achieve that purpose; and WHEREAS, the City has adopted the 2002 Park, Recreation and Open Space Plan, based on community wide meetings, citizen input and a community survey; and WHEREAS, on February 8, 2006, City Council conducted a Public Hearing to facilitate public input; and WHEREAS, the City conducted a statistically valid phone survey of 400 households to assist the City Council in making a Greenway's decision; and WHEREAS, in order to pay the costs of developing, improving and maintaining parks, trails, and open space it is necessary that the City institute a levy and use the proceeds of a temporary increase of the regular tax levy rate of the City as authorized by RCW 84.55.050; and WHEREAS, it is intended that these fiends will be collected in 10 years; and WHEREAS, nothing in such levy would relieve private developers or others from obligations otherwise existing in applicable State and local development, subdivision, and shoreline laws, regulations, and ordinances; and WHEREAS, State law, RCW 84.55.050, requires that the question of whether the City may collect such levy be submitted to the qualified voters of the city for ratification or rejection. Greenways Levy Ordinance- 2 City of Bellingham klyd0rdinance{Greenways 3.13.06 CrrYATrORNEY 210 Louie Street Bellingham, Washington 98225 Telephone (360) 676-6903 NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY OF BELLINGHAM DOES ORDAIN as follows: Section 1. Findings. A. The general fund of the City of Bellingham does not have sufficient resources to provide for the acquisition of additional greenways, open space, parks, and trails nor does it have sufficient funds for the development, maintenance and improvement of those and existing City properties. B. The City Council recognizes the need to provide funds for the acquisition, improvement, development and maintenance of the City's existing and future park facilities. C. The City Council desires to continue the Greenways Program by submitting to the voters a third Greenways levy which will replace the current levy and is based upon the same $.57 per $1,000 of assessed valuation as both previous Greenways levies. D. The City Council finds and declares that it is in the best interests of the City that its voters have an opportunity to vote on the question of whether to acquire, improve, develop and maintain greenways, open space, parks, and trails, the cost of which is to be paid from an increase in the City's regular property tax levy above the limitations established in RCW 84.55.010 for a period of 10 years commencing in the year 2007. E. The City Council finds and declares that an emergency exists requiring the submission to the qualified electors of the City the proposition whether the City shall levy regular property taxes above the limitation established in RCW 84.55.010 for their ratification or rejection at a special election on May 16, 2006. Section 2. Use of Funds: It is intended that proceeds from the additional tax levied pursuant to this ordinance shall be applied to acquire, improve, develop and maintain greenways, open space, parks, and trails as outlined in Exhibit A, the Greenways III -- Expenditure Guideline Summary and in Resolution No.2006`06 related to policies for implementation of the Greenways Levy III Program . Interest earnings on such proceeds shall also be applied to these purposes. The allocations are intended to be as follows: A. Land Acquisitions: Approximately 60% of the proceeds and interest of the levy are intended to be dedicated to land acquisition. B. Development and Improvement: Approximately 31% of the proceeds and interest of the levy are intended to be dedicated to the development and improvement of parks and greenways properties. Greenways Levy Ordinance- 3 City of Bellingham [c i�rlUrdii� neclGtccmvsys 3.13.06 CITY ATTORNEY 210 Lottie Street Bellingham, Washington 98225 Telephone (360) 676-6903 C. Greenways Preservation Endowment: Approximately 9% of the proceeds of the levy are intended to be set aside to accrue interest. Interest earnings are to be spent on the maintenance of properties acquired or developed with current or prior Greenway levy funds. D. Funds raised thereby shall also be used for all administrative and implementation costs to the City in carrying out this program. E. The above described program components are only illustrative guidelines for implementation of the Greenways III program. In the annual city budget or by separate ordinance, the city shall from year to year determine the budget and allocations among the program components, change the scope of activities or the emphasis, and within a budget year reallocate unexpended and unencumbered funds from one program to another. Proceeds and appropriations unexpended at the end of any budget year shall automatically be carried over to the next budget year. Section 3. Election -Ballot Title. The City Council requests that the Auditor of Whatcom County, as ex officio supervisor of elections, find the existence of an emergency pursuant to RCW 29A 04.330 (2) and call and conduct a special election in the City on May 16, 2006, for the purpose of submitting to the qualified voters of the City for their approval the proposition authorizing the City to increase its regular property tax Ievy to $2.49 per thousand (representing a continuation of $0.57 per thousand) of assessed valuation on all of the taxable property within the City, for collection in 2007 and to increase such levy for each of the nine succeeding years as allowed by RCW 84.55 to be used for the cost of parks, greenway, trail, and open space property acquisition, development, and maintenance as set forth in this ordinance. The City Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to certify to the County Auditor of Whatcom County, Washington, as ex officio supervisor of elections, at least 45 days prior to the May 16, 2006, election date, a copy of this ordinance and the proposition to be submitted at that election in the form of a ballot title in the following form pursuant to RCW 29A.36.071: Greenways Levy Ordinance- 4 City of Bellingham klm/Ordinance/Greenways 3.13.06 CITY ATTORNEY 210 Lottie Streef Bellingham, Washington 98225 Telephone (360) 676-6903