Derek Barry

The study session covered several key topics, including a realignment update from Sound Transit, the annual update for the 2022-2027 Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program, a discussion regarding body worn cameras for the police department, and a review of the financial results for the 2020 fiscal year.

The committee held its meeting to discuss departmental updates, ordinances, and resolutions. The Fire Department reported on service metrics, staffing impacts due to the pandemic, and the recruitment of a behavioral health specialist. The Police Department provided 2021 statistics highlighting changes in traffic stops and arrest limitations due to jail restrictions, and announced the launch of a body-worn camera program. The committee reviewed and recommended moving forward several items for the full council, including an Interlocal Agreement for fire investigation services with East Pierce Fire and Rescue, an Interlocal Agreement with the City of Bonney Lake for Community Therapeutic Courts, and an ordinance amendment regarding parking prohibitions in bicycle lanes and near mailboxes.

The committee discussed and recommended council approval for amendments to the municipal code regarding East Pierce Fire & Rescue references due to the termination of contract services. Additionally, the committee approved a recommendation to accept a land donation for the creation of a new pocket park. The committee also received reports on current permit activity, updates on major ongoing development projects, and information regarding code enforcement investigations at the Old QFC and Bob Hebert properties.

The committee reviewed monthly activity reports from the fire and police departments, noting stable response times and updated case activity. Key discussions included the fire department's achievement of full staff vaccination, the status of the upcoming budget, progress on station construction, and the adoption of a strategic plan. Police updates covered current staffing and recruitment, a delay in the body camera program implementation, and the procurement of a new video system for interview rooms. Additionally, the committee supported pursuing negotiations with the Tacoma Rescue Mission for shelter and outreach services.

The Council meeting involved the adoption of several ordinances related to the 2020 Comprehensive Plan update, covering comprehensive plan map amendments, citywide zoning and municipal code regulations, critical areas (wetland) regulations, and a planned action ordinance for the East Sumner neighborhood. Additionally, the Council authorized a consultant services agreement for Park Master Plans, approved an amendment to park rules and municipal code, and received administrative reports regarding infrastructure projects, personnel updates, and the city's vaccination-related recovery efforts.