Michael Johnson

The primary discussion focused on Ordinance Number 2953, a zoning code text amendment regarding co-living housing, necessitated by state legislation requiring cities to permit this housing type in zones allowing at least six dwelling units per structure. Key topics included defining co-living housing (independently rented sleeping units with shared kitchens, private bathrooms required per unit, no kitchen within the unit), the implication of state law on density calculations (four sleeping units per dwelling unit), and performance standards like open space and sewer connections. There was significant discussion concerning parking requirements, where state law mandates no parking within a half-mile of a major transit stop (like the Sounder station), unless the city conducts a traffic study demonstrating significantly unsafe conditions for drivers, pedestrians, or bicyclists, which staff recommended against pursuing initially. The discussion also touched upon potential costs for developers if they voluntarily add parking, and the feasibility of retrofitting existing single-family homes due to required private bathrooms and parking mandates outside transit radius areas. The presentation concluded with staff recommending the adoption of the ordinance as written, without conducting the traffic study.

The meeting commenced with the pledge of allegiance and an invocation. The agenda was amended to include resolution number 1745, confirming an emergency declaration for a failed storm main. The council adopted the consent agenda, which included approval of an interlocal agreement for a school resource officer, approval of checks and electronic payments totaling $8,148,624.56, and approval of minutes from prior meetings. Following this, the meeting moved into an executive session to evaluate a candidate for elected office, after which the regular meeting reconvened. New business focused on the process for filling a vacant council position, outlining the steps for nominations, public comment related to applicants, discussion, and a roll call vote requiring four votes for appointment.

The primary focus of the study session was the council vacancy appointment process, which included conducting interviews with the seven applicants who met minimum qualifications. The session also included procedural discussions regarding the interview format, such as setting the applicant presentation time limit to ten minutes, allowing for three minutes of clarifying questions per applicant, and confirming the process for executive session discussion regarding applicant qualifications. The order of interviews was established by random draw, starting with the first candidate, Mark Malcolm, followed by Travis Folk.

The study session addressed several key financial and operational topics. Discussions regarding landfill costs focused on increases driven by environmental regulations, such as methane gas capture, and high liquid costs in rainy regions, noting that landfill rates become dynamic as space diminishes, often leading to waste transport to the Midwest. A council member inquired about the .35% BNO tax increase, seeking clarification on its broad application and potential rollback by the state. It was confirmed that the tax applies to disposal companies and that current rates do not include specific incentives for fixed-income residents, though staff expressed willingness to discuss future programs. The session provided a breakdown of proposed rate increases for residential waste services based on container size, emphasizing that recycling is encouraged to lower bills. Furthermore, the council reviewed plans for the initial allocation of Transportation Benefit District (TBD) funds, amounting to an estimated $450,000, to be split between chip sealing three major roadways (Academy Street, Parker Road East, and Willow Street) and funding ADA curb ramp upgrades. Updates were provided on the food scrap diversion program, confirming its launch for residential use alongside an existing commercial program, and the plan to hire a community outreach position to improve education on proper recycling and composting practices. Finally, the recyclability of plastic bottle lids was confirmed, and it was noted that the final rate increase proposal would return for a vote at the subsequent regular council meeting.

The special meeting included discussion and a motion regarding CIP 24-10, the Hops Alley and Heritage Park phase 2 change order, which involves incorporating work to improve the southern portion of Heritage Park into an interim usable condition, including dedication plaques, cleaning up the asphalt area, additional seating, and irrigation. The council also heard a presentation from the Washington City's Insurance Authority (WCIA) Deputy Director concerning the city's insurance coverage, risk pool structure, self-insurance levels, and deductibles for property and auto physical damage coverage. The Public Safety Committee recommended a due pass recommendation for the change order.