2024, 04-16 study session
AGENDA
SPOKANE VALLEY CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
STUDY SESSION FORMAT
Tuesday, April 16, 2024 6:00 p.m.
Remotely via ZOOM Meeting and
In Person at Spokane Valley City Hall, Council Chambers
10210 E. Sprague Ave.
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
Council Requests Please Silence Your Cell Phones During Council Meeting
NOTE: Members of the public may attend Spokane Valley Council meetings in-person at the address
provided above, or via Zoom at the link below. Members of the public will be allowed to comment in-
person or via Zoom as described below. Public comments will only be accepted for those items noted on
If making a comment via Zoom, comments must be received
by 4:00 pm the day of the meeting.
Sign up to Provide Oral Public Comment at the Meeting via Calling-In
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CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
PROCLAMATION:
GENERAL PUBLIC COMMENT OPPORTUNITY: This is an opportunity for the public to speak on any
subject except agenda action items, as public comments will be taken on those items where indicated. Please
keep comments to matters within the jurisdiction of the City Government. This is not an opportunity for questions
or discussion. Diverse points of view are welcome but please keep remarks civil. Remarks will be limited to
three minutes per person. If a person engages in disruptive behavior or makes individual personal attacks
regarding matters unre
comment time before the three-minute mark. To comment via zoom: use the link above for oral or written
comments as per those directions. To comment at the meeting in person: speakers may sign in to speak but it
is not required. A sign-in sheet will be provided at the meeting.
ACTION ITEMS:
1. First Read: Ordinance 24-006: Yellowstone Franchise Tony Beattie
\[public comment opportunity\]
2. Motion Consideration: Pines GSP/Yellowstone Contract Erica Amsden
\[public comment opportunity\]
3. Motion: Resolution 24-006: Governance Manual Update Mayor/Councilmember
\[public comment opportunity\]
NON-ACTION ITEMS:
4. Admin Report: Clean Building Requirements & Potential Grant Opportunity Gloria Mantz
5. Admin Report: Comp. Plan Amendments Levi Basinger
6. Advance Agenda Mayor Haley
COUNCIL COMMENTS
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS
ADJOURN
Council Agenda April 16, 2024 Page 1 of 1
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
Request for Council Action
Meeting Date: April 16, 2024 Department Director Approval:
Check all that apply: consent old business new business public hearing
informationadmin. reportpending legislationexecutive session
AGENDA ITEM TITLE: First Reading – Draft Ordinance 24-006 Amending Yellowstone Pipe Line
Company Franchise
GOVERNING LEGISLATION: RCW 35.47.040; RCW 35A.11.020.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION TAKEN: November 23, 2021 - Approval of Ordinance 21-022
granting City-wide franchise to Yellowstone Pipe Line Company; Administrative Report for Draft
Ordinance 24-006 on April 2, 2024.
BACKGROUND: The City Council approved Ordinance 21-022 on November 23, 2021, which granted a
25 year franchise to Yellowstone Pipe Line Company (Yellowstone) to construct, maintain, and operate its
petroleum products pipeline in the City’s rights-of-way. It is important to note that it only granted authority
relative to rights-of-way controlled by the City, but not other public property owned by the City.
On April 2, 2024, City Council received an administrative report regarding the ordinance and the need to
amend the franchise. The City has been working to finalize the design for the Pines Road Grade Separation
Project (Pines GSP) over the past year. In doing so, it became clear that the location of the underpasses
will materially interfere with the current location of Yellowstone’s facilities, which were placed in the
BNSF corridor in 1952 pursuant to an easement granted to Yellowstone. As part of the Pines GSP planning,
the City purchased parcel number 45033.5010, which will be the location of the southerly starting point for
the relocated Pines Road.
Yellowstone evaluated design alternatives for their relocation and found extending the pipeline to the south
on the city owned parcel was less costly than remaining in their existing alignment. Pursuant to the design,
Yellowstone’s pipeline will be redirected south from their existing facility, cross under the proposed Pines
Road alignment just north of Pinecroft Way, then turn north and reconnect with the original pipeline
location.
The City needs to amend Ordinance 21-022 to include this specific parcel in the franchise granted to
Yellowstone in order to accommodate their relocation efforts in conjunction with the Pines GSP.
There are terms in the franchise that are very important for protecting the life, health, and safety of our
citizens and businesses, including hazardous materials handling requirements, safety plan requirements,
and very high insurance coverage requirements in the unlikely event of a spill or explosion. If approved,
this amendment would be subject to all of the terms of Ordinance 21-022 that are not specifically amended
by this ordinance. This includes requirements for Yellowstone to include this ordinance in its insurance
certificates naming the City as an additional insured and adding this ordinance to the schedule listed in its
guarantees.
Because this franchise is a necessary step in Yellowstone’s efforts to relocate their facilities to
accommodate the City’s Pines GSP project, staff have recommended that City Council consider waiving
the rules and adopting the ordinance on a first reading, thus removing one additional week from the required
statutory timeline.
OPTIONS: (1) Move to advance Ordinance 24-006 amending the Yellowstone Pipe Line Company
franchise to a second reading; (2) Move to waive the rules and approve Ordinance 24-006 amending the
Yellowstone Pipe Line Company franchise; or (2) take other action as appropriate.
RECOMMENDED ACTION OR MOTION: Move to waive the rules and approve Ordinance 24-006
amending the Yellowstone Pipe Line Company franchise.
BUDGET/FINANCIAL IMPACTS: None anticipated specific to this franchise. However, the agreement
with Yellowstone for reimbursement for its relocation efforts will contain costs associated with the Pines
GSP capital improvement project, and is being brought forward separately.
STAFF CONTACT: Tony Beattie, Senior Deputy City Attorney
___________________________________________________________________________
ATTACHMENTS:
(1) Draft Ordinance 24-006 Amending Yellowstone Pipeline Company Franchise
(2) Ordinance 21-022 – Yellowstone Pipe Line Company Franchise
(3) Map of Franchise Area
DRAFT
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
SPOKANE COUNTY, WASHINGTON
ORDINANCE NO. 24-006
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY, SPOKANE COUNTY,
WASHINGTON, AMENDING, MODIFYING, AND SUPPLEMENTING THE PROVISIONS OF
ORDINANCE 21-022, RELATING TO GRANTING A NON-EXCLUSIVE FRANCHISE TO THE
YELLOWSTONE PIPE LINE COMPANY TO CONSTRUCT, OPERATE, MAINTAIN,
REMOVE, REPLACE, AND REPAIR EXISTING PIPELINE FACILITIES FOR THE
TRANSPORTATION OF PETROLEUM PRODUCTS AND BYPRODUCTS WITHIN AND
THROUGH THE CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY, AND OTHER MATTERS RELATING
THERETO.
WHEREAS, Yellowstone Pipe Line Company (hereinafter ) owns and operates
certain facilities related to a petroleum pipeline within and through the City of Spokane Valley (hereinafter
-022 in 2021; and
WHEREAS, Ordinance 21-022 governs Yellowstonerights-of-way, but
not other City-owned property; and
WHEREAS, Yellowstone currently has facilities in the Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) rail
corridor in the vicinity of Pines Road, running generally in a linear fashion from east to west; and
WHEREAS, the City is currently in the design stage for the construction of a grade separation
project that will result in Pines Road being relocated to the east of its current configuration, and which will
require reconstruction of Pines Road under the BNSF rail lines; and
the construction and operation of relocated Pines Road; and
WHEREAS, the City purchased a parcel of land, 45033.5010 in 2017 for the purpose of relocating
Pines Road east of its current configuration; and
WHEREAS, because the existing franchise granted through Ordinance 21-022 only relates to the
facilities in rights-of-way as they existed on the date the franchise became effective, the Parties desire to
amend Ordinance 21-022 to include the planned relocated portion of Yellowstone facilities in the future
right-of-way on parcel 45033.5010; and
WHEREAS,
franchises for the use of public streets, bridges or other public ways, structures or places above or below
the surface of the ground for railroads and other routes and facilities for public conveyances, for poles,
conduits, tunnels, towers and structures, pipes and wires and appurtenances thereof for transmission and
distribution of electrical energy, signals and other methods of communication, for gas, steam and liquid
fuels, for water, sewer and other private and publicly owned and operated facilities for public service; and
of its introduction nor for five days thereafter, nor at any other than a regular meeting nor without first being
submitted to the city attorney, nor without having been granted by the approving vote of at least a majority
Yellowstone Pipe Line Franchise Ordinance 24-006 Page 1 of 5
DRAFT
of the entire legislative body, nor without being published at least once in a newspaper of general circulation
in the city before becoming effective;
WHEREAS, the City of Spokane Valley previously adopted Ordinance 21-022 on November 23,
2021 granting a non-exclusive franchise to the Yellowstone Pipe Line Company; and
Spokane Valley with notice of intent to relocate the Yellowstone facilities within the franchise area to
Spokane County tax parcel # 45033.5010 to accommodate the aforementioned realignment of Pines Road;
and
WHEREAS, this Ordinance 24-006, amending Ordinance 21-022, has been submitted to the City
Attorney for review prior to its passage; and
WHEREAS, the Council finds that this Ordinance 24-006, an amendment to the grant of the
franchise to Yellowstone contained in Ordinance 21-022 is in the best interests of the public, and protects
the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of this City.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Spokane Valley, Spokane County,
Washington, do ordain as follows:
Section 1. Purpose. The purpose of this Ordinance is to amend the Franchise granted to Yellowstone in
Ordinance 21-022 by expanding the original Grant of Franchise to accommodate the relocation of
facilities from the BNSF rail corridor to the City-owned Spokane County parcel number
45033.5010, which is the subject of a capital improvement project involving the grade separation of Pines
Road. Nothing herein shall be construed as an authorization or a permit for the actual construction or
-owned parcel 45033.5010. Yellowstone is still responsible
to obtain all permits, authorizations and agreements for all work as required by Ordinance 21-022, and will
number 0223.
Section 2. Amendment. ance 21-022 is hereby
amended as follows:
franchise area shall mean the area within the jurisdictional boundaries of the City where Yellowstone
currently has facilities in the pipeline corridor, including any areas annexed by City during the term of this
franchise, in which case the annexed area shall become subject to the terms of this franchise. Franchise
area shall also mean the areas on the City-owned Spokane County parcel number 45033.5010 depicted and
described in Exhibit 2.
Section 3. Amendment. Section 2 of Ordinance 21-022, is hereby amended to include the following new
section.
2.1.1 In addition to the Grant of Franchise pursuant to section 2.1, the City hereby grants to Yellowstone,
a corporation organized and existing under and by virtue of the laws of the State of Delaware, and which is
authorized to transact business within the State of Washington, its successors and assigns (as provided in
Section 4), the right, privilege, authority and franchise to relocate its existing facilities to, operate and
maintain said facilities necessary for the transportation, distribution and handling of any petroleum product
or byproduct thereof, liquids and gases, in the locations of Spokane County parcel number 45033.5010 as
specifically depicted and described in Exhibit 2
Road grade separation project, CIP number 0223.
Yellowstone Pipe Line Franchise Ordinance 24-006 Page 2 of 5
DRAFT
Section 4. New Exhibit. Ordinance 21-022 is hereby amended to include the attached and herein
incorporated Exhibit 2.
Section 5. Amendment. Section 2.8 of Ordinance 21-022 is hereby amended as follows:
2.8 The parties acknowledge that Yellowstone has facilities on private property and Interstate 90 (I-90)
within the City limits, in addition to those on publicly-owned rights-of-way and eventually parcel number
45033.5010 that are subject to this franchise, and that the terms of this franchise do not apply to those
facilities located on private property or within the I-90 corridor. A route map of Yellowstone
including whether located on private or public property, is attached as Exhibit 1. Provided however, that
the terms of this franchise specifically apply to the relocation activities from the
BNSF rail corridor and other property to city-owned parcel number 45033.5010 to the extent necessary to
Pines Road/BNSF Grade Separation Project, CIP number 0223, and the relocation
depicted in Exhibit 2.
Section 6. Stipulation. The City and Yellowstone recognize and agree that all terms of Ordinance 21-022
not specifically amended pursuant to Ordinance 24-006 shall apply equally and in the exact same manner
to Ordinance 24-006. Further, the City and Yellowstone specifically recognize and agree that Section 15
of Ordinance 21-022 shall also apply to this amendment, Ordinance 24-006, in its entirety, including as it
relates to
to city-
Project, CIP number 0223, in lieu of Yellowstone having to obtain duplicative coverage for this parcel-
specific expansion of the franchise. Yellowstone shall provide the City properly executed amendments to
the certificates of insurance, guarantees and self-insurance provisions adding Ordinance 24-006 to the list
of Agreements to which such insurance, guarantees, and self-insurance provisions apply. This provision
was specifically requested by Yellowstone, and any inconsistencies, errors, or interpretations shall be
construed against Yellowstone and not the City.
Section 7. Other Sections Unchanged. All other provisions of Ordinance 21-022 not specifically amended
herein shall remain in full force and effect.
Section 8. Severability. If any section, sentence, clause or phrase of this Ordinance should be held to be
invalid or unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity or unconstitutionality shall
not affect the validity or constitutionality of any other section, sentence, clause or phrase of this Ordinance.
In the event that any of the provisions of the franchise are held to be invalid by a court of competent
jurisdiction, the City reserves the right to reconsider the grant of the franchise and may amend, repeal, add,
replace or modify any other provision of the franchise, or may terminate the franchise. Specifically, should
a court of competent jurisdiction determine that the franchise granted in section 3 of Ordinance 24-006 is
invalid or unconstitutional, the parties agree that the terms of Ordinance 21-022 and as amended, modified,
and supplemented by Ordinance 24-006, shall continue in full force and effect as to parcel number
45033.5010 as a license granted from the City to Yellowstone for the purposes described herein.
Section 9. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect five (5) days after publication
of the Ordinance or a summary thereof occurs in the official newspaper of the City of Spokane Valley as
provided by law.
PASSED by the City Council this day of , 2024.
Pam Haley, Mayor
Yellowstone Pipe Line Franchise Ordinance 24-006 Page 3 of 5
DRAFT
ATTEST:
Marci Patterson, City Clerk
Approved as to Form:
Office of the City Attorney
Date of Publication:
Effective Date:
Yellowstone Pipe Line Franchise Ordinance 24-006 Page 4 of 5
DRAFT
UNCONDITIONAL ACCEPTANCE BY YELLOWSTONE:
I, the undersigned official of Yellowstone Pipe Line Company, am authorized to bind Yellowstone
Pipe Line Company and to unconditionally accept the terms and conditions of the foregoing franchise,
which are hereby accepted by Yellowstone Pipe Line Company this day of
, 2024.
Yellowstone Pipe Line Company
By:
Name:
Title:
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, has signed this day of
, 2024. Subscribed and sworn before me this day of , 2024.
Notary Public in and for the State of
residing in
My commission expires
Yellowstone Pipe Line Franchise Ordinance 24-006 Page 5 of 5
FYIJCJU!3
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
Request for Council Action
Meeting Date: April 16, 2024 Department Director Approval:
Check all that apply:
consent old business new business public hearing
information admin. report pending legislation executive session
AGENDA ITEM TITLE: Motion Consideration- Pines Road/BNSF Grade Separation Project–
Phillips 66/Yellowstone Pipeline Relocation Agreement
GOVERNING LEGISLATION: RCW 35.77.010, Perpetual Advanced Six-Year plans for
coordinated transportation program expenditures.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION TAKEN:
May 7, 2013: Administrative report, Bridging the Valley,
June 23, 2015: Council passed Resolution No. 15-005 adopting the 2016-2021 Six Year
Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), which included the project
January 10, 2017: Motion consideration to acquire Pinecroft property
February 28, 2017: Council passed Resolution 17-006, amending the 2017 TIP which
included the project
March 28, 2017: Administrative report seeking Council consensus to move forward with
project design
May 23, 2017: Resolution No. 17-011 adopting the 2018-2023 Six-Year TIP, which
included the project
July 11, 2017: Motion consideration to select a Consultant for Phase 1 Design
October 17, 2017: Admin Report on Design Alternatives
March 27, 2018: Motion consideration to apply for Spokane Regional Transportation
Council’s (SRTC) federal grants, including the project
May 22, 2018: Motion consideration to apply for Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and
Safety Improvements Program, FY2017, (CRISI #1) grant for the project
June 5, 2018: Motion consideration to apply for Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage
Development (BUILD) grant
August 21, 2018: Motion consideration to apply for Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and
Safety Improvements Program, FY2018, (CRISI #2) grant
December 4, 2018: Admin Report on Design Alternatives
June 4, 2019: Admin Report on Design Alternatives
June 4, 2019: Motion consideration to apply for BUILD grant
June 18, 2019: Motion consideration to advance Alternative 2 to Phase 2 design
April 14, 2020: Motion consideration to apply for BUILD grant
May 5, 2020: Motion consideration to authorize city manager to execute design
agreement with HDR
July 7, 2020: Motion consideration to authorize city manager to acquire the DeWitt
Living Trust property
July 7, 2020: Motion consideration to authorize city manager to acquire the DeRuwe
property
April 12, 2022: Motion consideration to authorize city manager to accept Avista Property
Donation
July 18, 2023: Admin Report for Project Update
August 22, 2023: Motion consideration for Final Action Ordinance for Condemnation
February 6, 2024: Admin Report for Project Update
February 20, 2024: Admin Report for CIP 2024 Construction Projects
BACKGROUND: Since 2017, the City has been working on the Pines Road/BNSF Railroad
Grade Separation Project. The project will grade separate the BNSF tracks from Pines Road
(State Route 27) by constructing an underpass, realign Pines Road to the east, replace the
signalized intersection of Pines Road and Trent Avenue (State Route 290) with a double lane
roundabout, and construct a new trailhead for the Centennial Trail. Design is nearing completion.
The project has secured full funding from several different funding sources and agencies including
the following:
Consolidated Rail Infrastructure & Safety Improvements (CRISI) $ 1,246,500
Surface Transportation Program (STP) $ 3,795,000
Congressional Discretionary Spending (CDS) $ 5,000,000
Congestion Mitigation Air Quality (CMAQ) $ 4,879,000
Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) $ 1,525,600
Rebuilding American Infrastructure w/ Sustainability & Equity (RAISE) $ 21,689,221
Move Ahead Washington State Funding $ 5,000,000
The funding sources have different requirements and processes. The City received the award
letter for RAISE agreement in October 2022 and is still working through the approval process.
FRA granted pre-obligation authority in January 2024, for $8,164,668, which allows the City to
pay for the railroad bridge construction by BNSF forces and a portion of the necessary utility
relocations prior to execution of the full RAISE agreement.
Staff is actively coordinating utility relocations required for the project with several purveyors
including Phillips 66/Yellowstone Pipeline (P66/YPL), Avista Utilities, Irvin Water District, Lumen
Technology, Cogent Communications, AT&T, Comcast, Verizon, and Zayo. Several of the utilities
including P66/YPL have prior property rights which require that relocations be reimbursed by the
project. The city executed a reimbursement contract with P66/YPL for their design efforts related
to the relocation of their pipeline in March of 2023. The design is complete and YPL is ready to
begin relocating their pipeline. The attached draft agreement allows P66/YPL to move forward
with the construction relocation. Exhibit A, the relocation plans and specifications developed by
YPL, of the agreement has been omitted from the council packet due to the size.
OPTIONS: 1) Move to allow the City Manager to finalize and execute the Phillips 66/Yellowstone
Pipeline construction reimbursement agreement, or 2) take other appropriate action.
RECOMMENDED ACTION OR MOTION: Move to allow the City Manager to finalize and execute
the Phillips 66/Yellowstone Pipeline construction reimbursement agreement in the amount of
$1,331,304.
BUDGET/FINANCIAL IMPACTS: The project is fully funded with a combination of local, state
and federal funds. The Utility Construction Agreement with P66/YPL will be funded from the
project funds. The FRA has granted the City pre-obligation authority to spend $8,164,668 for
project work, including the utility relocation necessary of P66/YPL. The pre-obligation authority is
comprised of $6,531,734 in RAISE grant funds and $1,632,934 in required local match.
STAFF CONTACT: Erica Amsden, PE – CIP Engineering Manager
___________________________________________________________________________
ATTACHMENTS: Reimbursement Agreement
Exhibit – Conceptual Location
Utility Name & Address
Utility Construction Agreement
Phillips 66 Pipeline LLC
Work by Utility LOCAL AGENCY Cost
Attn: Manager, Joint Ventures
2331 CityWest Blvd.
Houston, TX 77042
Agreement Number Project Title/Location
24-079
Pines Rd/BNSF Grade Separation Project
Route Cross Streets
SR 27 From SR 270 to Pinecroft Way
Estimated Agreement Amount
$ 1,331,304.00
This Utility Construction Agreement is made and entered into between the City of
Spokane Valley (LOCAL AGENCY) and Yellowstone Pipe Line Company Utility; hereinafter
referred to
Recitals
1. The LOCAL AGENCY is planning the construction or improvement of the Pines
Rd/BNSF Grade Separation Project, and in connection therewith, it is necessary to
remove and/or relocate and/or construct certain facilities owned by Utility (hereinafter
Work) as identified in Exhibit A.
2. The LOCAL AGENCY is responsible for the cost of the Work affecting the Utility
facilities located within the Project area pursuant to a documented ownership of and/or
interest in real property, such as an easement, fee title, or court finding of prescriptive
right, which is impacted by the LOCAL AGENCY project.
3. The Work shall include all materials, equipment, labor, contract administration (including
overhead) and any other cost or effort required to perform the relocation, construction,
.
4. It is deemed to be in the best public interest for the Utility to perform the Work, which
includes relocation and construction of its own facilities for the transmission of liquid
petroleum.
Now, therefore, pursuant to and in consideration of the terms, conditions, covenants, and
performances contained herein, as well as the attached Exhibits A through E which are
incorporated and made a part hereof,
The Parties mutually agree to the following:
1. Construction, Inspection, and Acceptance
1.1 Program Guide: Utility Relocation and Accommodation on Federal Aid Highway Projects,
dated 01/2003, is adopted and made a part of this Agreement as if fully contained
herein.
1.2 Betterment: A betterment is any improvement to the Utility
code, regulation, standard industry practice, or any other applicable regulation. If any of
Page 1 of 9
the Work constitutes a betterment as defined in the Program Guide: Utility Relocation
and Accommodation on Federal Aid Highway Projects, the Utility is solely responsible for
the costs of the portion and proportion of the Work that constitutes a betterment.
1.3 Accrued Depreciation: Accrued depreciation may be applied to any of the Utility
facilities, such as a building, pump station, power plant, etc. Accrued depreciation shall
not apply to the Utility
conduit, etc. If any Utility facility does qualify for an adjustment due to accrued
depreciation as defined in Program Guide: Utility Relocation and Accommodation on
Federal Aid Highway Projects, the costs are calculated according to the formula in the
Program Guide and the result is shown as a Utility cost in Exhibit B Cost Estimate.
1.4 The Utility shall furnish the labor, materials, equipment, and tools required for and
perform the Work per the plans and specifications in Exhibit A, including but not limited
to scheduling, construction,
1.5 If the Utility is not adequately staffed or equipped to perform all the Work required
herein, the Utility may have all or part of this Work done by a contract let by the Utility, as
follows:
1.5.1 Before contracting out any Work, the Utility shall obtain written authorization from
the LOCAL AGENCY, and the LOCAL AGENCY may require the Utility to
advertise and solicit bids for the contract Work.
1.5.2 If the LOCAL AGENCY requires the Work to be advertised and bid, the Utility
shall provide a copy of all bid documents to the LOCAL AGENCY twenty-one
(21) calendar days prior to the advertisement date, or as specified in Exhibit A,
for the LOCAL AGENCY comment.
1.5.3 The Utility shall notify the LOCAL AGENCY at least three (3) working days in
advance of the location and time of the bid opening so that the LOCAL AGENCY
representative may attend the bid opening.
1.5.4 The Utility shall supply a copy of the three lowest bids with itemized bid amounts
to the LOCAL AGENCY within seven (7) calendar days of bid opening.
1.5.5 If the Utility elects to use other than the lowest bid contractor, the Utility shall
provide written justification to the LOCAL AGENCY for the use of that contractor
and bid price. The LOCAL AGENCY shall review the Utility
and if the LOCAL AGENCY does not agree therewith and the Utility awards the
bid to other than the lowest bid contractor, the Utility shall be responsible for the
cost difference between the amount of the lowest bid and the amount of the
awarded contract.
1.5.6. This Section shall not apply to contract employees performing work for the Utility
in the ordinary course of its business.
1.6 If the Utility desires to have the Work performed under an existing contract, the LOCAL
AGENCY may require the Utility to provide the LOCAL AGENCY with a copy of the
contract for the LOCAL AGENCY
charges; provided, however, that this provision shall not apply to contract employees
performing work for the Utility in the ordinary course of its business.
Page 2 of 9
1.7 The Parties agree that nothing in the LOCAL AGENCY approval of a Utility contractor
or bid shall be for the benefit of the Utility; all such approvals, whether written or verbal,
shall be solely for the benefit of the LOCAL AGENCY and shall not establish a
contractual relationship among the LOCAL AGENCY, the Utility, and the Us
contractor.
1.8 All of the Utility Work under this Agreement shall be subject to the LOCAL AGENCY
inspection for the sole benefit of the LOCAL AGENCY and/or the LOCAL
AGENCY project. The Utility shall promptly notify the LOCAL AGENCY in writing when
the Work is completed. The LOCAL AGENCY shall inspect the Work for compliance with
the Exhibits attached to this Agreement. The LOCAL AGENCY will notify the Utility in
writing of any non-compliance that would impact the LOCAL AGENCY payment, state
highway and/or the LOCAL AGENCY project. The Utility agrees to make the necessary
changes to satisfy the LOCAL AGENCY requirements or adjust the invoice. The LOCAL
AGENCYinspection shall not reduce or modify the UtilityWork.
1.9 Upon completion of the Work, the Utility agrees that it shall be solely responsible for all
future ownership, operation and maintenance costs of its facilities, without the LOCAL
AGENCY liability or expense.
2. Authority to Begin Work and Work Schedule
2.1 The Utility agrees not to begin Work until the LOCAL AGENCY has provided written
notice, authorizing the Utility to begin Work. The LOCAL AGENCY shall not be obligated
to reimburse the Utility for any Work performed before the date of notification.
2.2 The Utility agrees to schedule and perform the Work in such manner as not to delay or
interfere with the LOCAL AGENCYthe LOCAL
AGENCYtility shall be responsible for any costs resulting from delay of,
or interference with, the LOCAL AGENCY's project contractor, to the extent the delay or
interference is attributable to the Utility or the Utility.
3. Compliance
3.1 To the extent applicable, the Utility agrees to comply with all applicable requirements of
the LOCAL AGENCY in accordance with the Utilities Accommodation Policy, Chapter
468-34 WAC, and amendments thereto, and said policy and amendments are hereby
incorporated in and made a part of this Agreement for all intents and purposes as if fully
set forth herein.
3.2 The Utility agrees to comply with all applicable Washington state and federal laws and
environmental requirements of any jurisdictional agency and is responsible for obtaining
any necessary environmental permits required in order to perform the Work.
3.3 The Utility agrees to obtain and comply with any other permits from any jurisdictional
agency that are required in order for the Utility to perform the Work.
3.4 In performing under this Agreement, the Utility shall comply with the Rebuilding
to the
extent applicable to Utility. The pertinent RAISE Grant provisions include, but are not
necessarily limited to the items identified in Exhibit C of this Agreement.
Page 3 of 9
4.Payment
4.1 The LOCAL AGENCY is responsible for the cost of the Work, excluding all betterment
work, for the Utility
interest in real property, such as an easement, fee title, or court finding of prescriptive
right, which are impacted by the LOCAL AGENCY project, as shown in Exhibit A.
Exhibit B contains an itemized cost estimate of the LOCAL AGENCY-responsible costs
for the Work to be performed by the Utility.
4.2 The LOCAL AGENCY, in consideration of the faithful performance of the Work to be
done by the Utility, agrees to reimburse the Utility for the actual direct and related
indirect cost of the Work, excluding all betterment work, for which the LOCAL AGENCY
is responsible as defined in Exhibits A and B. The Utility agrees to invoice the LOCAL
AGENCY and provide supporting documentation for all charges, and the LOCAL
AGENCY agrees to pay the Utility within thirty (30) days of receipt of an invoice.
Payments shall not be more frequent than one per month. A partial payment will not
constitute agreement as to the appropriateness of any item and that, at the time of final
invoice, the Parties will resolve any discrepancies.
4.3 The Utility shall submit a final invoice to the LOCAL AGENCY within one hundred eighty
(180) calendar days following completion of the Work. In the event that the final invoice
reveals an overpayment to the Utility, the Utility agrees to refund such overpayment to
the LOCAL AGENCY within thirty (30) days.
5. Change in Work or Cost Increase
5.1 The LOCAL AGENCY agrees that the amounts shown in Exhibit B may not reflect the
actual costs of the Work. Should the Utility determine that any cost itemized in Exhibit B
for which the LOCAL AGENCY is responsible might exceed the cost estimate by more
than ten (10) percent, the Utility shall immediately notify the LOCAL AGENCY before
performing any Work in excess of the sum of said itemized cost estimate plus ten (10)
. The LOCAL AGENCY and the Utility will, if
necessary, amend Exhibit B to revise the cost estimate before the Utility incurs costs
above the Allowed Overage.
5.2 Should it be necessary to modify the Scope of the Work, the Utility agrees to
immediately notify the LOCAL AGENCY of all proposed changes, and the LOCAL
AGENCY agrees to provide written notice of its acceptance or rejection of the change(s),
in writing, within ten (10) working days.
6. Franchise, Permit or Easement
6.1 The Utility shall apply for a permit, franchise, or an amendment to its current franchise
for those new or modified Utility facilities that will be located within the LOCAL
AGENCYthe LOCAL AGENCY will issue
the Utility a permit or a new or amended franchise.
6.2 Upon completion of the Work covered under this Agreement, the Utility agrees to
prepare, execute and deliver to the LOCAL AGENCY a quit claim deed for all existing
easements, fee title, or court finding of prescriptive right, which are no longer necessary
, if any, and which may be vacated as a result of the relocation of
Utility facilities.
Page 4 of 9
6.3If and in those instances where the Utility must relocate facilities to be within or across
-of-way, then the LOCAL AGENCY agrees to grant or issue the
Utility a permit or franchise for those Utility facilities which will remain on or which cross
the LOCAL AGENCY-of-way and for which the Utility previously had an
easement, fee title or court finding of prescriptive right.
7. Right of Entry
7.1 Subject to the Utility obtaining all required permits and meeting any other requirements
for Work conducted within the publicly owned right-of-way, the LOCAL AGENCY hereby
grants the Utility a right of entry upon all land in which the LOCAL AGENCY has interest
for the purpose of performing the Work. Upon completion of the Work, this right of entry
shall terminate except as otherwise provided in Section 6.
7.2 The Utility agrees to comply with applicable requirements concerning entry onto state-
owned rights of way.
8. General Provisions
8.1 General Indemnification: Each Party shall indemnify and hold
harmless the other Party and its agents, employees, and officers
against any and all claims, liabilities, demands, suits at law or equity, actions,
penalties, losses, damages (both to persons and/or property), or costs, of whatsoever kind
or nature , that (1) are brought against the Indemnified Party, and (2) arise out
of either the negligent, intentional, reckless, or willful misconduct of the Indemnifying Party,
If and to the extent that such Claims are
caused by or result from the concurrent negligence of the Parties, or involves those
actions covered by RCW 4.24.115, this indemnity provision shall be valid and enforceable
only to the extent of the intentional or negligent acts or omissions of the Indemnifying
Party, and provided further, that nothing herein shall require the Indemnifying Party to hold
harmless or defend the Indemnified Party from any Claims arising from the sole
negligence of the Indemnified Party. The Parties agree that the Indemnifying Party waives
its immunity under Title 51 RCW for purposes of this indemnification provision, and that
this waiver was mutually negotiated by the Parties. This indemnification shall survive any
termination of this Agreement.
8.2 Environmental Indemnification: Utility shall indemnify, defend, and hold harmless LOCAL
AGENCY from and against any and all liability, loss, damage, expense, actions and
claims, either at law or in equity, including, but not limited to, costs and reasonable
)
which arise al laws
applicable to the pipeline subject to this Agreement, or (b) from any release of a
hazardous substance on or from said pipeline, or (c) other activity related to this
Agreement by Utility, its agents, contractors or subcontractors. This indemnity includes but
for hazardous substances; (b) damages to natural resources caused by hazardous
substances, including eh reasonable costs of assessing such damages; (c) liability for any
investigation, abatement, correction, cleanup, fines, penalties, or other damages arising
under any environmental laws; and (e) liability for personal injury, property damage, or
economic loss arising under any statutory or common-law theory.
Page 5 of 9
8.3Insurance: Utility shall (1) maintain the insurance, guarantees, and self-insurance
of Spokane Valley Ordinance 21-022, and all amendments thereto); and (2) provide
LOCAL AGENCY with properly executed certificates of insurance, guarantees, and any
other necessary documentation establishing that the insurance, guarantees and self-
cation
responsibilities and performance of the Work identified in this Agreement.
8.4 Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension, and Other Responsibility Matters
Primary Covered Transactions.
A. By executing this Agreement, the Utility certifies to the best of its knowledge and
belief that it and its principals:
(1) Are not presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared
ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from participating in covered transactions by
any Federal department or agency;
(2) Have not within a three-year period preceding this proposal been convicted of or
had a civil judgment, including a civil settlement, rendered against them for
commission of fraud or a criminal offense in connection with obtaining,
attempting to obtain, or performing a public (Federal, State or local) transaction
or contract under a public transaction; violation of Federal or State antitrust
statutes or commission of embezzlement, theft, forgery, bribery, falsification or
destruction of records, making false statements, or receiving stolen property;
(3) Are not presently indicted for or otherwise criminally or civilly charged by a
governmental entity (Federal, State, or local) with commission of any of the
offenses enumerated in paragraph (a)(2) of this certification; and
(4) Have not within a three-year period preceding this application/proposal had one
or more public transactions (Federal, State or local) terminated for cause or
default.
B. Where the prospective participant is unable to certify to any of the statements in this
certification, such prospective participant shall attach an explanation to this proposal.
C. Utility shall require all subcontractors submitting bids or proposals to complete any
work in connection with this Agreement to provide the following certification with its
bid/proposal:
(1) The prospective lower tier participant certifies, by submission of this proposal,
that neither it nor its principals is presently debarred, suspended, proposed for
debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from participating in
covered transactions by any Federal department or agency.
(2) Where the prospective lower tier participant is unable to certify to any of the
statements in this certification, such prospective participant shall attach an
explanation to this proposal.
Page 6 of 9
8.5Disputes: If a dispute occurs between the Utilityand the LOCAL AGENCYat any time
during the prosecution of the Work, the Parties agree to negotiate at the management
level to resolve any issues. Should such negotiations fail to produce a satisfactory
resolution, the Parties agree to enter into mediation before proceeding to any other legal
remedy. Each Party shall be responsible for its own fees and costs. The Parties agree to
equally share the cost of a mediator.
8.6 Venue: In the event that either Party deems it necessary to institute legal action or
proceedings to enforce any right or obligation under this Agreement, the Parties agree
that any such action or proceedings shall be brought in the superior court situated in
Spokane County, Washington unless filing in another county is required under any
provision of the Revised Code of Washington. Further, the Parties agree that each shall
8.7 Termination:
8.7.1 The Utility understands that the LOCAL AGENCY retains the right to terminate
this Agreement for convenience upon thirty (30) calendar days written notice to
the Utility. In the event that the LOCAL AGENCY exercises this termination right,
the LOCAL AGENCY will reimburse the Utility for all allowable costs under this
Agreement incurred prior to the date of termination, including the costs of
materials procured for use in the project through the date of termination, unless
said materials can be deployed to other projects.
8.7.2 In the event funding for the Work is withdrawn, reduced, or limited in any way
after the execution date of this Agreement and prior to normal completion, the
LOCAL AGENCY may terminate the Agreement upon less than the thirty (30)
calendar day notice requirement in section 8.4.1, subject to renegotiation at the
LOCAL AGENCY
conditions. In the event that the LOCAL AGENCY exercises this termination
right, the LOCAL AGENCY will reimburse the Utility for all allowable costs under
this Agreement incurred prior to the date of termination, including the costs of
materials procured for use in the project through the date of termination, unless
said materials can be deployed to other projects.
8.7.3 In the event Utility materially breaches this Agreement, then the LOCAL
AGENCY may terminate this Agreement if Utility does not cure the breach within
ten (10) days after receiving written notice of the breach.
8.8 Amendments: This Agreement may be amended by the mutual agreement of the
Parties. Such amendments or modifications shall not be binding unless put in writing and
signed by persons authorized to bind each of the Parties.
8.9 Independent Contractor: Both Parties shall be deemed independent contractors for all
purposes, and the employees of each Party and any of its contractors, subcontractors,
consultants, and the employees thereof, shall not in any manner be deemed to be the
employees of the other Party.
8.10 Audit and Records: During the progress of the Work and for a period of not less than six
(6) years from the date of final payment. The Utility shall maintain the records and
accounts pertaining to the Work and shall make them available during normal business
Page 7 of 9
hours and as often as necessary, for inspection and audit by the LOCAL AGENCY,
State of Washington, and/or Federal Government and copies of all records, accounts,
documents or other data pertaining to the Work will be furnished upon request. The
requesting Party shall pay the cost of copies produced. If any litigation, claim, or audit is
commenced, the records and accounts along with supporting documentation shall be
retained until any litigation, claim or audit finding has been resolved even though such
litigation, claim or audit continues past the six-year retention period.
8.11 Working Days: Working days for this Agreement are defined as Monday through Friday,
excluding Washington State holidays per RCW 1.16.050.
8.12 Exhibits: The following Exhibits are part of this Agreement and fully incorporated as
terms of the Agreement:
a. Exhibit A. Plans and Specifications
b. Exhibit B. Cost Estimate
c. Exhibit C. Assurance of Compliance with Applicable Federal Law
8.13 Notices: Whenever notice to Utility or LOCAL AGENCY is called for in this Agreement,
said notice shall be delivered to the receiving Party at the physical address identified below,
unless different direction was provided in writing:
If to LOCAL AGENCY: If to Utility:
John Hohman Chris Church
City Manager Area Supervisor
City of Spokane Valley Yellowstone Pipeline Company
10210 E Sprague Avenue 6317 E Sharp Avenue
Spokane Valley, WA 99206 Spokane Valley, WA 99212
509-720-5000 509-536-8413
8.14 Waiver: No officer, employee, agent, or other individual acting on behalf of either Party
has the power, right, or authority to waive any of the conditions or provisions of this
Agreement. No waiver in one instance shall be held to be waiver of any other
subsequent breach or nonperformance. All remedies afforded in this Agreement or by
law shall be taken and construed as cumulative and in addition to every other remedy
provided herein or by law. Failure of either party to enforce at any time any of the
provisions of this Agreement or to require at any time performance by the other party of
any provision hereof shall in no way be construed to be a waiver of such provisions nor
shall it affect the validity of this Agreement or any part thereof.
8.15 Assignment and Delegation: Neither Party shall assign, transfer, or delegate any or all of
the responsibilities of this Agreement or the benefits received hereunder without first
obtaining the written consent of the other party.
8.16 Entire Agreement: This Agreement constitutes the entire and complete agreement
between the parties and supersedes any prior oral or written agreements. This
Agreement may not be changed, modified, or altered except in writing signed by the
Parties.
Page 8 of 9
In Witness Whereof, the Partieshereto have executed this Agreement asof the day and year
last written below.
Local Agency Utility
By: By:
Printed: Printed:
Title: Title:
Date: Date:
Page 9 of 9
Exhibit B- Cost Estimate
Pines GSP - YPL Cost Estimate
Construction
Pipe/Material Costs$62,571
Pipe String Fabrication $725,179
Mechanical Pipe Construction$687,179
X Ray $10,000
Construction Oversight $28,000
Environmental Permitting/Disposals $48,500
Tie in Costs $63,801
N2 Purging Contractor $29,181
Pig Tracking$20,620
Vac Truck$10,000
Coating $4,000
P66 Travel $16,000
Subtotal $916,051
Contingency (10%)$91,605
Construction Subtotal $1,007,656
BNSF
Permitting cost $98,840
Flagging Estimate $51,160
BNSF Subtotal $150,000
Overall Subtotal$1,157,656
Overhead (15%)$173,648
Total $1,331,304
FYIJCJU
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
Request for Council Action
Meeting Date: April 16, 2024 Department Director Approval:
Check all that apply: consent old business new business public hearing
information admin. report pending legislation executive session
AGENDA ITEM TITLE: Resolution 24-006 Repealing and Replacing Governance Manual
GOVERNING LEGISLATION: Chapter 42.30 RCW; RCW 35A.12.110; City Council Governance
Manual
PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION TAKEN:
Resolution 23-014, adopted Dec. 19, 2023.
Resolution 23-006, adopted Apr. 18, 2023.
Administrative Report on updates to Governance Manual, Dec. 12, 2023.
Administrative Report on updates to Governance Manual, Mar. 12, 2024
BACKGROUND: The City Council has the authority to establish its own rules of procedure,
policies, and standards of conduct. Such policies and procedures are identified in the City Council
Governance Manual, which is periodically updated.
The Governance Manual Committee met on Jan. 19, 2024, Jan. 31, 2024, and Mar. 1, 2024. The
committee reviewed the current manual and developed proposed additions, deletions, and
updates.
Staff presented Council with a red-line draft of the manual on Mar. 12, 2024, and Council directed
staff to make additional changes and corrections. The subsequent draft document is in the packet;
modified/additional language from the Mar. 12 draft is shown in light blue font. A chart outlining
the changes follows this page.
OPTIONS: (1) Direct staff to make additional edits to the manual, or (2) approve the Resolution
with the changes as presented.
RECOMMENDED ACTION OR MOTION: Move to approve Resolution 24-006, repealing and
replacing the Governance Manual.
BUDGET/FINANCIAL IMPACTS: N/A
STAFF CONTACT: Kelly Konkright, City Attorney
ATTACHMENTS:
Table outlining proposed changes
Proposed Amended City of Spokane Valley Governance Manual
Proposed Draft Resolution 24-006
costs
/
ment
TOPIC OVERVIEW
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SPOKANE VALLEY
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CHAPTER/SECTION Introduction Section A Section C Section C Section E ItemItem
CITY OF
per Consensus by Council on Mar 12, 2024
TOPIC OVERVIEW
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CHAPTER/SECTION Sentence 5Sentence 5
CITY OF
Governance Manual
Resolution 03-028 adopted 05-13-2003, replaced by
Resolution 04-013 adopted 05-25-2004, replaced by
Resolution 05-021 adopted 09-13-2005, replaced by
Resolution 06-022 adopted 11-14-2006, replaced by
Resolution 07-020 adopted 12-11-2007, replaced by
Resolution 09-012 adopted 09-08-2009, replaced by
Resolution 10-020 adopted 12-28-2010, replaced by
Resolution 12-002 adopted 04-10-2012, replaced by
Resolution 13-005 adopted 04-23-2013, replaced by
Resolution 14-003 adopted 02-25-2014, replaced by
Resolution 15-007 adopted 08-11-2015, replaced by
Resolution 16-012 adopted 11-01-2016, replaced by
Resolution 18-008 adopted 11-13-2018, replaced by
Resolution 18-011 adopted 12-18-2018, replaced by
Resolution 20-010 adopted 07-14-2020, replaced by
Resolution 22-021 adopted 11-22-2022, replaced by
Resolution 23-006 adopted 04-18-2023, replaced by
Resolution 23-014 adopted 12-19-2023
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Table of Contents | 2024 DRAFT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
INTRODUCTION 3
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 5
CHAPTER 1: COUNCIL MEETINGS 8
A.General9
B.Meetings9
C.Meeting Rules and Procedures17
CHAPTER 2: LEGISLATIVE PROCESSES AND PROCEDURES 35
36
B.Filling Council Vacancies37
C.Legislative Agendas40
D.Council Travel Allocation40
E.Council Expense Reimbursement Policy40
F.Ballot Measures43
CHAPTER 3: COUNCIL CONTACTS 44
A.Citizen Contacts and Interactions45
46
CHAPTER 4: COMMITTEES, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS 48
A.Regional Committees, Commissions and Boards49
B.In-house Committees, Boards, etc.50
C.Private Committees, Boards, Commissions53
CHAPTER 5: COUNCIL CONDUCT STANDARD AND ENFORCEMENT 55
A.Purpose56
B.Council Conduct Standards56
C.Compliance Required56
D.Enforcement Procedure56
CHAPTER 6: GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS 63
A.Copies64
B.Out-of-State Travel Policy64
C.Dress Code Policy64
D.Volunteers/Legislative Assistants64
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Table of Contents | 2024 DRAFT
Page
APPENDICES 65
A.Public Hearings, Quasi-Judicial66
B.Resolution 07-019 Core Beliefs67
C.Statement of Ethics70
D.Frequently Used Acronyms72
E.Application for City Councilmember73
F.Request to Transfer Travel Allocation from One Councilmember to Another79
80
H.Social Media Policy82
Index85
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Table of Contents | 2024 DRAFT
INTRODUCTION
As Councilmembers of the City of Spokane Valley, we agree that the Governance Manual (Manual)
outlines the rules by which we agree to adhere in order to successfully and efficiently conduct city
business.
Councilmembers agree to:
Demonstrate principles of fairness and equal treatment of all people.
Exhibit professionalism, respect for all people, respect for the responsibilities of elected
office, and courteous treatment for each other, city staff and the public.
Recognize the requirement for confidentiality for certain city business such as legal,
personnel, negotiations, real estate transactions and other sensitive matters.
Acknowledge that the City Council acts as a body. Councilmembers may disagree with a
decision of the majority, but they recognize that decisions of the majority obligate the
Council to a course of action.
Councilmembers in the minority on an issue shall have the privilege of expressing their
individual views while maintaining respect for the decision and authority of the majority to
establish policy.
Recognize that while disagreement between members can occur, Councilmembers
understand the importance of cooperation and collaboration on issues.
of Order, a copy
of which is maintained in the City Clerk Office. However, in the event of a conflict between the
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Introduction | 2024 DRAFT
This Manual is designed to provide guidance for the City Council and is not intended to be an
amendment or substitute for any state statutes, city ordinances, court decisions, or other authority.
The rules and policies in this Manual do not constitute land use regulations, official controls, public
hearing rules or other substantive rules binding upon or to be used or relied upon by members of the
public, and do not amend statutory or other regulatory requirements.
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Introduction | 2024 DRAFT
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
FOUNDATION
The City of Spokane Valley incorporated March 31, 2003, and is a non-charter code city operating
under a Council-Manager plan of government as outlined in chapter 35A.13 RCW Optional Municipal
Code for Council-Manager plan of government. Under this form of government, there are two
branches of government: legislative and administrative.
PURPOSE OF CITY GOVERNMENT
The general purpose of local government is to promote the social, economic, environmental and
cultural well-being of the community, to ensure that resources are used efficiently and effectively,
to ensure transparency and accountability in decision-making, and to provide the prudent use and
stewardship of local community resources. These statements should be considered the lens
through which this Manual is intended and through which the actions of the City Council and staff
are viewed.
The City recognizes that individual rights are critically important in our society, and the City is
committed to not infringe upon those rights whenever possible. Good governance should reflect the
will of the citizenry and can only occur as a result of an
inherent in the people, and governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed,
Article I, Section 1)
OBLIGATIONS
The City acknowledges the importance of complying with the Open Public Meetings Act and the
serve them. The people, in delegating authority, do not give their public servants the right to decide
what is good for the people to know and what is not good for them to know. The people insist on
42.30.010 and 42.56.030.
RCW 42.30.010 Open Public Meetings Act:
commissions, boards, councils, committees, subcommittees, departments, divisions, offices, and
all other public agencies of this state and subdivisions thereof exist to aid in the conduct of the
business. It is the intent of this chapter that their actions be taken openly and that their
not meet as a quorum of four or more in a non-public meeting.
Unless as part of a duly noted Council meeting, a quorum of four or more Councilmembers shall not
meet as part of a web conference dealing with city business, nor a conference call, serial
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Executive Summary | 2024 DRAFT
Act does not prohibit a quorum or more of Councilmembers meeting at social gatherings or events
provided city issues are not discussed. If Councilmembers are involved in a violation of the Open
Public Meetings Act, and are aware that their actions violate the Act, they may be personally liable.
If the violation is not intentional, the City may still be liable
Constitution.
RCW 42.56.030 Public Records Act:
narrowly construed to promote this public policy and to assure that the public interest will be fully
protected. In the event of conflict between the provisions of this chapter and any other act, the
PRIORITIES
The c pavement preservation, transportation and
infrastructure (including grade separations and park related projects) and, economic development,
Housing and Homelessness, Communications, and Infrastructure Improvements. Additional
BASIC TENETS
-019, which is
included in its entirety in Appendix B on page 47 of this Manual.
BRANCHES OF CITY GOVERNMENT
The Council is the legislative branch of the city government. Council appoints an officer whose title
city m
city manager shall be responsible to the Council for the proper
LEGISLATIVE BRANCH CITY COUNCIL
The City Council consists of seven elected officials, each elected to four-year terms. Individual
Councilmembers do not have governing power as individuals, but only when meeting as a Council
when a quorum (four or more) are present. Council represents the city residents and business
owners of the City of Spokane Valley, and is the law-making, policy-making, and budget and
spending approval authority of the city government. Council hires, directs, guides and evaluates the
performance of the city manager. The city manager shall be appointed for an indefinite term and may
be removed by a majority vote of the Council (RCW 35A.13.130), or as otherwise agreed to by
contract. For functions of the Mayor and Deputy Mayor, see also Chapter 1(A)(3), page 8 of this
Manual.
Some of the duties, responsibilities, and limitations of each Councilmember:
Brings the experience, concerns and knowledge of a typical city resident to city government.
Is cognizant of the needs, wants and concerns of city residents and businesses as a whole.
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Executive Summary | 2024 DRAFT
Contacts residents and businesses to gather feedback and ideas. The resulting information
may be shared with staff or other Councilmembers individually, or with fewer than two
simultaneously (but not serially), or with all Councilmembers at a Council meeting.
Studies internal and external written and documented information related to the government
and administration of the city.
Is prohibited from giving city employees directives, or saying anything that could be taken as
an attempt to
Gives feedback and ideas regarding city government and administration to the city manager.
Participates in assigned city and regional committees and all Council meetings.
When acting in the capacity of Councilmember outside of Council meetings, communicates
that any personal opinion is the opinion of the individual Councilmember and not that of the
collective Council, unless pre-authorized to speak, as Council does not want the public to
assume that any individual personal opinion represents that of the entire Council.
Constitutions. Provided there is no quorum., Councilmembers may work together on City
Council-related projects and discuss city business in non-public meetings. No permission is
needed, nor is notice required to be given for such gathering.
ADMINISTRATIVE BRANCH - CITY MANAGER AND CITY STAFF
The city manager is the ccity
manager is an at-will position and reports directly to the Council. The city manager is directly
administration and management of all city departments, and for the supervision of staff. (See
Chapter 3(B), page 39 of this Manual and chapter 35A.13.RCW for a description of the role of the city
manager.)
Although this summary is provided as an overview of the Governance Manual, reading the entire
Manual is strongly encouraged.
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Executive Summary | 2024 DRAFT
A. GENERAL
1. Council Meetings - Time and Location
Through the end of 2023, regular meetings of the City Council shall be held at CenterPlace Regional
Event Center, 2426 N. Discovery Place, Spokane Valley, Washington.The regular meetings of City
Council will be held at Spokane Valley City Hall Council Chambers, 10210 E. Sprague Avenue,
Spokane Valley, Washington, after notice thereof has been posted on the City’s official website
(www.spokanevalleywa.gov) for at least 72 hours. Regardless of location, regular meetings are held
on Tuesdays beginning at 6 p.m. Pursuant to RCW 42.30.070: “If at any time any regular meeting falls
on a holiday, such regular meeting shall be held on the next business day.” As noted, in such case,
the meeting held on the next business day after a holiday would also be a regular meeting, as
opposed to a special meeting. The Council always has the option of cancelling such meeting.
2. Council Meetings - Open to the Public
All meetings of the City Council and of committees thereof shall be open to the public except as
provided for in RCW 42.30.110 (Executive Sessions), or RCW 42.30.140 (Open Public Meetings Act).
3. Presiding Officer
The Mayor shall preside at meetings of the Council and be recognized as the head of the City for all
ceremonial purposes. The Mayor shall have no regular administrative or executive duties unless
specifically set forth herein. In case of the Mayor's absence or temporary disability, the Deputy Mayor
shall act as Mayor during the continuance of the absence. In case of the absence or temporary
inability of the Mayor and Deputy Mayor, an acting Mayor Pro Tempore selected by majority vote of
the remaining members of the Council, shall act as Mayor during the continuance of the absences
\[RCW 35A.13.035\]. The Mayor, Deputy Mayor (in the Mayor’s absence) or Mayor Pro Tem are referred
to as “Presiding Officer” from time to time in these Rules of Procedure.
B. MEETINGS
1. Regular Meetings: Formal Format
a. Normally held 2nd and 4th Tuesdays. The city clerk, under the direction of the city manager in
consultation with the Mayor, shall arrange a list of proposed matters according to the order of
business and prepare an agenda for the Council. On or before close of business on a Friday
preceding a Tuesday Council meeting, or at the close of business at least 24 hours preceding a
special Council meeting, a copy of the agenda and supporting materials shall be prepared for
Councilmembers, the city manager, appropriate staff, and the media who have filed a notification
request.
b. Requests for presentations from outside entities or individuals to be placed on a future agenda
will only be permitted if they are considered the official business of the City. Such requests should
be submitted to the city clerk at least 10 days prior to the appropriate Council meeting. The city clerk
shall consult with the city manager and the Mayor for a determination of whether the matter is an
administrative issue, and whether it should be placed on an upcoming Council agenda. Playing of
videos, DVDs, PowerPoints, or other electronic presentations shall be pre-screened and pre-
approved by the city manager who shall determine the appropriateness of the material. In the event
the presenter has no PowerPoint or other material to submit prior to the meeting, the presenter shall
be requested to provide a brief written summary of the topic and items to be discussed. All written
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Chapter 1: Council Meetings | 2024 DRAFT
materials, including the written summary, must be submitted to the city clerkat least 10 days prior
to the appropriate Council meeting.
c. Forms of Address. The Mayor shall be addressed as “Mayor (surname).” The Deputy Mayor shall
be addressed as “Deputy Mayor (surname).” Members of the Council shall be addressed as
“Councilmember (surname)” unless waived by the Presiding Officer.
d. Order of Business. The business of all regular formal meetings of the Council shall be transacted
as follows, provided however, that the Presiding Officer may, during a Council meeting, rearrange
items on the agenda to conduct Council business more expeditiously, without the necessity of a
formal action or motion. However, adding or removing items from the agenda once a meeting has
been called to order requires Council to make a motion and vote on approving the “amended
agenda.”
i. Call to Order by the Presiding Officer.
ii. Invocation.
iii. Pledge of Allegiance.
iv. Roll Call. (See Chapter 1, C5b \[page 19\] for procedure to excuse an absence)
v. Approval of Agenda/Amended Agenda. In case of an emergency or an extremely time-
sensitive issue which neither the administration nor the entire Council was aware of prior to
the distribution of the agenda and accompanying materials, a new item may be introduced
by a Councilmember, and suggested as an amended agenda item for the present meeting. If
a new item(s) is added, Council shall then consider a motion to approve the amended
agenda. (“Three-Touch Principle” should be followed whenever possible.) It is preferable
that any motion to amend the agenda be made at the onset of the meeting in place of
‘Approval of Agenda,’ recognizing that there will emergencies or other situations when such
motion to amend the agenda might need to be made at other times during the meeting.
vi. Introduction of Special Guests and Presentations.
vii. Councilmember Reports. Council or government-related activities (e.g. synopsis of
committee, commission, task force or other board meetings). These verbal reports are to be
brief, City work-related reports of significance in keeping the Council informed of pertinent
policy issues or events stemming from their representation of the City on a regional board,
committee, task force or commission, whether as a formal or informal member. Individual
Councilmember reports shall not exceed 3 minutes in duration. Extended reports shall be
placed as future agenda items for presentation or submitted in writing as an informational
memo.
viii. Mayor’s Report. Same as ‘vii’ above except given by the Mayor.
ix. Proclamation. The Mayor will announce the proclamation, announce who has requested
this proclamation and after the Mayor or Councilmember reads the proclamation, invites
that person or other appropriate person to the podium. The original proclamation will be
handed to that appropriate person by the City clerk or the Mayor, and the individual will be
permitted to speak for one or two minutes.
x. Public Hearings. (See page 31 for procedural details)
xi. Public Comments. (See page 17 Meeting Rules and Procedures)
xii. Consent Agenda. Items which may be placed on the Consent Agenda are those which
have been previously discussed by the Council; can be reviewed by a Councilmember
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without further explanation; are so routine, technical or nonsubstantive in nature that
passage without discussion is likely; or are otherwise deemed in the best interest of the City.
The proper Council motion on the Consent Agenda is: “I move approval of the Consent
Agenda.” This motion has the effect of moving to approve all items on the Consent Agenda.
Prior to the vote on the motion to approve the Consent Agenda, the Presiding Officer shall
inquire if any Councilmember wishes an item to be withdrawn from the Consent Agenda. If
any matter is withdrawn, the Presiding Officer shall place the item at an appropriate place on
the agenda for the current or a future meeting, or the matter may be addressed immediately
after passage of the remaining items on the Consent Agenda.
xiii. Unfinished Business. \[includes matters that were pending when a previous meeting
adjourned, or matters specifically postponed to the present meeting\]
xiv. New Business. \[Action items are designated as New Business\] Any member of the public
who wishes to verbally address the Council on an action item on the current agenda, shall
proceed to the podium at the time when comments from the public are invited during the
agenda item discussion. The Council may hear such comments before or after initial Council
discussion. The Presiding Officer may also invoke a sign-in procedure. If necessary, the
Presiding Officer in consultation with the city manager and/or city attorney shall rule on the
appropriateness of verbal public comments as the agenda item is reached. The Presiding
Officer may change the order of speakers so that comment is heard in the most logical
groupings.
xv. Administrative Reports (includes the Advance Agenda) or tracking of an administrative
issue or topic.
xvi. Information Only Items. These items are generally not discussed or reported.
xvii. Council Comments.
xviii. City Manager Comments.
xix. Executive Session. (as required)
xx. Adjournment. No Council meeting should be permitted to continue beyond
approximately 9 p.m. without the approval of a majority of the Councilmembers present. A
new time limit shall be established before taking a Council vote to extend the meeting. When
a motion is made to adjourn into Executive Session for a specified period of time, and if the
executive session is the last item on a regular agenda, no additional motion is needed to
extend the meeting beyond 9 p.m. since that is implied as part of the motion to adjourn into
Executive Session. In the event that a meeting has not been closed or continued by Council
as herein specified, the items not acted on shall be deferred to the next regular Council
meeting, unless the Council by a majority vote of members present determines otherwise.
2. Regular Meetings: Study Session Format
a. Normally held 1st, 3rd and 5th Tuesdays. The purpose of the study session format is to allow
Councilmembers to be made aware of impending business and allow informal discussion of issues
that might be acted on at a future meeting. Action items are normally not included on a study session
agenda, although there will be times when due to deadlines or other pressing or time sensitive
issues, action items must be included. Study sessions shall be in a less formal setting than regular
formal meetings. Council may be seated other than at the dais, but shall not discourage public
observation. If an item is designated as an action item, public comment will be permitted on that
motion/item unless a public hearing on the item was previously held. There shall be one general
public comment at study session for the public to comment on items that relate to the operation of
the city. The city clerk, under the direction of the city manager, shall arrange a Council study session
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agenda for the meeting. A copy of the agenda and accompanying background materials shall be
prepared for Councilmembers, the city manager, appropriate staff and the press, on or before close
of business on a Friday preceding a Tuesday Council meeting. Councilmembers have the option of
accessing their Council packet via the city’s website. Unless notified otherwise, the city clerk shall
prepare a hard copy agenda packet for individual Councilmembers.
b. Action Items. Although action items may be included on a study session agenda, it is the
preference of Council to keep those instances to a minimum. Because a study session is a
recognized meeting according to the “Open Public Meetings Act,” it is permissible for Council to take
final action during these meetings. As in the formal format meetings, public comment will be allowed
on action items.
c. Unscheduled Motions. Because study sessions are usually understood by the public and media
as referring to meetings at which Council considers and discusses items and does not take final
action or vote, it could be misleading to the public as to the purpose of the meeting if a motion is
made unexpectedly. As it is Council’s practice to invite public comment after most motions, it would
be inappropriate to make a “surprise” motion unless there is a rare special circumstance. Voting or
making a motion when neither is included on an agenda does not violate state law, but for
consistency sake and to avoid any surprises to the public and media, the practice is discouraged.
d. Presiding Officer’s Role. The role of the Presiding Officer is to facilitate free flowing discussion
without the necessity of each Councilmember being recognized by the Presiding Officer. The
Presiding Officer retains the option of assuming the function of the discussion leader at any time in
order to maintain decorum and ensure all Councilmembers have the opportunity to be heard, and to
keep the discussion properly focused.
e. Outside Request. Outside requests to be included on a Council agenda will only be permitted if
they are considered the official business of the City. Such requests should be submitted to the city
clerk at least 10 days prior to the appropriate Council meeting. The city clerk shall consult with the
city manager and the Mayor for a determination of whether the matter is an administrative issue, and
whether it should be placed on an upcoming Council agenda. Playing of videos, DVDs, PowerPoints,
or other electronic presentations shall be pre-screened and pre-approved by the city manager or
designee, who shall determine the appropriateness of the material. In the event the presenter has
no PowerPoint or other material to submit prior to the meeting, the presenter shall be requested to
provide a brief written summary of the topic and items to be discussed. All written materials,
including the written summary, shall be submitted to the city clerk at least 10 days prior to the
appropriate Council meeting.
f. Forms of Address. Councilmembers and staff have the option of addressing each other on a first
name basis during the study session format meetings.
g. Order of Business. The business of all study session meetings of the Council shall be transacted
as follows, provided, however, that the Presiding Officer may, during a Council meeting, rearrange
items on the agenda to conduct Council business more expeditiously, without the necessity of a
formal action or motion. However, adding or removing items from the agenda once a meeting has
been called to order requires Council to make a motion and vote on approving the “amended
agenda.”
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i. Call to Order.
ii. Roll Call. The city clerk shall conduct a roll call of Councilmembers (See page 19 for
procedure to excuse an absence.)
iii. Approval of Agenda/Amended Agenda. In case of an emergency or an extremely time-
sensitive issue which neither the administration nor the entire Council was aware of prior to
the distribution of the agenda and accompanying materials, a new item may be introduced
by a Councilmember, and suggested as an amended agenda item for the present meeting. If
a new item(s) is added, Council shall then consider a motion to approve the amended
agenda. (“Three-Touch Principle” should be followed whenever possible.) It is preferable
that a motion to amend the agenda be made at the onset of the meeting in place of ‘Approval
of Agenda,’ recognizing that there will emergencies or other situations when such motion to
amend the agenda could be made at other times during the meeting.
iv. Proclamation. (as needed)
v. Public Comments. (See Section C page 17 for Meeting Rules and Procedures)
vi. Action items. (as needed)
vii. Non-action items. Presenter’s Role: During the Council study session, the presenter
should introduce the subject and give background information, identify the discussion goal,
act as facilitator to keep the discussion focused toward the goal, and alert the Presiding
Officer when it is appropriate, to schedule the topic for a motion or official direction of the
Council.
viii. Advance Agenda.
ix. Information Only Items. These items are generally not discussed or reported.
x. Council Comments. The purpose of this item is to allow Councilmembers an opportunity
to report on an activity or key issue which either just arose, needs immediate or imminent
action, or to simply report on something in connection with their role as a Councilmember,
that transpired since the last Council meeting. It is also an opportunity for Councilmembers
to bring up topics for clarification or to address other upcoming concerns. Individual
Councilmember reports shall not exceed three minutes in length.
xi. City Manager Comments: The purpose of this agenda item is to allow the City Manager the
opportunity to brief Council on activities or issues which either just arose, needs immediate
or imminent action, or to simply inform Council of items that transpired since the last
Council meeting, or will occur before the next Council meeting.
xii. Executive Session (as needed)
xiii. Adjourn. No Council meeting should be permitted to continue beyond approximately 9
p.m. without the approval of a majority of the Councilmembers present. A new time limit
shall be established before taking a Council vote to extend the meeting.
3. Executive Sessions
a. Executive sessions shall be held pursuant to the Open Public Meetings Act chapter 42.30 RCW.
Council may hold an executive session during a regular or special meeting. Before convening in
executive session, the Presiding Officer shall ask for a motion from Council to publicly announce the
purpose for adjourning into executive session; when the executive session will be concluded; and
the likelihood of Council taking action at the close of the executive session and return to open
session.
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i. At the close of the executive session and upon Council’s return to the meeting place, the
Presiding Officer will declare Council out of executive session, and ask for the appropriate
motion (i.e. an action motion or a motion to adjourn).
ii. To protect the best interests of the city, Councilmembers shall keep confidential all verbal
and written information provided during executive sessions. Confidentiality also includes
information provided to Councilmembers outside of executive sessions when the
information is considered exempt from disclosure under the Code of Ethics for Municipal
Officers (RCW 42.52) and/or the Public Records Act (RCW 42.56).
b. RCW 42.30.110 explains the purpose for holding an executive session, some of which include:
i. RCW 42.30.110(1)(b). To consider the selection of a site or the acquisition of real estate by
lease or purchase when public knowledge regarding such consideration would cause a
likelihood of increased price (pending land acquisition).
ii. RCW 42.30.110(1)(g). To evaluate the qualifications of an applicant for public employment
or to review the performance of a public employee. \[The only employee subject to this
evaluation is the position of city manager.\] However, subject to RCW 42.30.140(4) (labor
negotiations), discussion by a governing body of salaries, wages, and other conditions of
employment to be generally applied within the agency shall occur in a meeting open to the
public, and when a governing body elects to take final action hiring, setting the salary of an
individual employee or class of employees, or discharging or disciplining an employee, that
action shall be taken in a meeting open to the public. \[Note: stating that an executive
session’s purpose is to discuss a “personnel matter” is not sufficient because only certain
types of personnel matters are appropriate for discussion in an executive session.\] (review
qualifications of a public employee)
iii. RCW 42.30.110(1)(h). To evaluate the qualifications of a candidate for appointment to
elective office. However, any interview of such candidate and final action appointing a
candidate to elective office shall be in a meeting open to the public (review qualifications of
an elected official).
iv. RCW 42.30.110(1)(i). To discuss with legal counsel representing the agency matters
relating to agency enforcement actions, or to discuss with legal counsel representing the
agency litigation or potential litigation to which the agency, the governing body, or a member
acting in an official capacity is, or is likely to become, a party, when public knowledge
regarding the discussion is likely to result in an adverse legal or financial consequence to the
agency. For purposes of this subsection (1)(i), “potential/pending litigation” means matters
protected by Rules of Professional Conduct (RPC) 1.6 or RCW 5.60.060(2)(a) concerning:
(a) Litigation that has been specifically threatened to which the agency, the governing
body, or a member acting in an official capacity is, or is likely to become, a party;
(b) Litigation that the agency reasonably believes may be commenced by or against the
agency, the governing body, or a member acting in an official capacity; or
(c) Litigation or legal risks of a proposed action or current practice that the agency has
identified when public discussion of the litigation or legal risks is likely to result in an
adverse legal or financial consequence to the agency.
c. Council may adjourn into executive session even if it is not listed on the meeting agenda. There is
a requirement in RCW 35A.12.160 that the public be made aware of the preliminary agendas of
meetings in advance of the meeting, but that does not mean that an item that arises after the agenda
has been posted cannot be discussed at the meeting, even in executive session. Since final action
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on the matter would not be taken at the executive session, it would not violate any provision in state
law to hold an executive session at a regular Council meeting even if the executive session was not
listed on the agenda. \[MRSC Index-General Government-Executive sessions.\] Although amending
the agenda is not required in order to adjourn into executive session, it is a good practice for the
Mayor to announce at the beginning of the meeting, that Council will be adjourning into an executive
session at the end of the regular meeting.
d. Attendance at Executive Sessions. Attendance shall only be in person. Except in extreme
circumstances, there shall be no virtual attendance at an Executive Session. The city attorney or
deputy city attorney shall attend executive sessions which address litigation or potential litigation.
The question of who may attend an executive session other than the Council, is determined by the
city manager.
4. Special Meetings
a. A special meeting may be called by the Mayor or any three members of the Council. (RCW
35A.13.170, 35A.12.110). Written notice of the special meeting shall be prepared by the city clerk.
The notice shall contain information about the meeting, including date, time, place, and business to
be transacted and shall be posted on the city’s website and displayed at the main entrance of the
meeting location (RCW 42.30.080). The notice shall be delivered to each member of Council at least
24 hours before the time specified for the proposed meeting (RCW 35A.12.110). The noticing
regarding such decision to hold a special meeting (made by the Mayor or any three
Councilmembers), shall be handled by the City Clerk’s Office through the city manager.
b. The notices provided in this section may be dispensed within the circumstances provided by RCW
42.30.080, that is: (a) As to any member who, at or prior to the time the meeting convenes, files with
the city clerk a written waiver of notice; (b) As to any member who was actually present at the meeting
at the time it convenes; and (c) In the event a special meeting is called to deal with an emergency
involving injury or damage to persons or property or the likelihood of such injury or damage, when
time requirements of such notice would make notice impractical and increase the likelihood of such
injury or damage; or as otherwise provided by law.
c. Agendas shall be drafted in a form submitted by the city clerk, approved by the city manager, and
distributed in a manner similar to agendas for formal and study session meetings. The processes
and rules for agenda content apply to regular formal, study session format, as well as special
meetings.
d. Special meeting agendas may include action and non-action items. It is the practice of Council to
allow time for the public to comment on action items and the “public comment” should be so noted
on the agenda. Once the Special Meeting Agenda has been published and distributed, the agenda
may be amended provided the amended agenda is distributed to Councilmembers and to the media,
and posted on the city’s website and at the meeting doorway, at least 24 hours in advance of the
special meeting. Final disposition shall not be taken on any other matter at such meeting, which
means that the governing body may address other matters not identified in the special meeting
notice or agenda, provided ‘final disposition’ regarding such matters is not taken (RCW 42.30.080(3))
Council may not pass a franchise ordinance at a special meeting \[RCW 35A.47.040\].
e. There have been questions about whether it is necessary to call a special meeting in situations
where Councilmembers are invited to attend a public meeting not called by the City as an official
Council meeting, and whether it is legal for a quorum of Councilmembers to be present without
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violating the Open Meeting Act. According to the Washington State Attorney General Opinion 2006,
No. 6, the “presence of a quorum of members of a City or County Council does not, of itself, cause
the Open Public Meetings Act to apply if Councilmembers attend a public meeting called by a third
party. The gathering of Councilmembers would be a ‘meeting’ for purposes of the Act only if the
Councilmembers take ‘action’ as defined in the Act, such as voting, deliberating, or other official
business of the Council.”
f.There are times when several Councilmembers desire to attend a meeting of a city department,
such as a meeting scheduled by the city engineers to discuss a construction project, or a meeting
scheduled through the Finance Department to hear a report from the state auditors, or a meeting
scheduled by the Parks and Recreation Department to discuss parks or other city business. Because
these meetings can at times present questionable concern when it comes to the Open Public
Meeting Act, Councilmembers who desire to attend such meetings shall notify the city staff at least
two working days prior to the meeting, of their intent to attend, and only the first three
Councilmembers who indicate they will be attending any particular meeting, may attend. This is
necessary in order not to violate or perceive to violate the Open Public Meetings Act.
g.RCW 42.30.070 states in part: “It shall not be a violation of the requirements of this chapter for a
majority of the members of a governing body to travel together or gather for purposes other than a
regular or special meeting provided that they take no action as defined in this chapter.” \[MRSC
Research News – Summer, 2016\] A quorum of Councilmembers traveling together for a scheduled
tour would not be in violation of the Open Public Meetings Act provided they do not discuss city
business. However, comments and discussion as a result of the tour, shall be done at a regular
Council meeting and not during the tour or outside of a regular or special Council meeting.
5.Emergency Meetings
Emergency Council meetings may be called by the Mayor or any two Councilmembers, consistent
with the provisions of chapter 42.30 RCW. Meeting time, location and notice requirements do not
apply to emergency meetings called for emergency matters as permitted by RCW 42.30.070,
42.30.080, and 42.14.075:
“If, by reason of fire, flood, earthquake, or other emergency, there is a need for expedited
action by a governing body to meet the emergency, the presiding officer of the governing body
may provide for a meeting site other than the regular meeting site and the notice requirement
of this chapter shall be suspended during such emergency.” \[RCW 42.30.070\]
“The notices provided in this section may be dispensed with in the event a special meeting is
called to deal with an emergency involving injury or damage to persons or property or the
likelihood of such injury or damage, when time requirements of such notice would make
notice impractical and increase the likelihood of such injury or damage.” \[RCW 42.30.080(4)\]
“Whenever, due to a natural disaster, an attack or an attack is imminent, it becomes
imprudent, inexpedient or impossible to conduct the affairs of a political subdivision at a
regular or usual place or places, the governing body of the political subdivision may meet at
any place within or without the territorial limits of the political subdivision on the call of the
presiding official or any two members of the governing body. After any emergency relocation,
the affairs of political subdivisions shall be lawfully conducted at such emergency temporary
location or locations for the duration of the emergency.” \[RCW 42.14.075\]
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6. Pre-Agenda/Advance Agenda Meetings
The city manager, city clerk, Mayor and Deputy Mayor generally meet at a fixed weekly time to review
the Council agenda of the upcoming meeting, which gives all involved an opportunity to ask
questions and gather any additional materials or research needed for the impending meeting. This
meeting also serves as an opportune time to discuss the Advance Agenda, which is a planning
document to aid in scheduling items on future Council agendas. (see also Agenda Committee under
Chapter 4 internal committees)
7. Cancellation of Meetings
State law does not require any specific procedure for canceling an upcoming meeting, however,
notice of the cancellation to the public, Councilmembers, and staff should be given by the clerk in a
similar manner that notice is given for a special meeting. The decision to cancel a meeting will be
made by the city manager in consultation with the Mayor and/or Agenda Committee and time
permitting, will be noted on the Advance Agenda. The noticing of such decision will be handled by
the city clerk through the city manager. Upon cancellation of a formal meeting, either the study
session immediately before such meeting or the study session immediately after such meeting, shall
include an opportunity for general public comment.
C. MEETING RULES AND PROCEDURES
1. Public Comments
This is an opportunity for public comments regarding issues relating to the operation of the City, but
which are not otherwise on the agenda for action. If the Presiding Officer is unclear whether
comments relate to the operation of the City, the Presiding Officer shall ask how the comments are
pertinent for consideration by the Council as business of the City. Speakers may sign in to speak,
but it is not required. Under the general public comment opportunity, each speaker may only make
comments once and comments are limited to three minutes unless modified by the Presiding
Officer. Members of the public shall be prohibited from allocating any of their own speaking time to
other members of the public. This time is an opportunity to hear from various members of the public
in a limited public forum on issues relating to city business, and not an opportunity for extended
comments or dialogue. Although the City Council desires to allow the opportunity for public
comment, the business of the city must proceed in an orderly, timely manner. Council meetings are
considered a ‘limited public forum’ which means the time, place and manner of speech can be
regulated. At any time the Presiding Officer, in the Presiding Officer's sole discretion, may set such
reasonable limits as are necessary to prevent disruption or undue delay of other necessary business.
The desired total time for public comments shall not exceed 45 minutes; however, that time limit
may change at the Mayor’s discretion. The Council states that it is not the business of the city to
have discussion about any past, current, or future possible/probable election or campaign-related
issues during Council meetings. The only exception to this prohibition on discussion of election or
campaign-related topics would be if the Council requests that Spokane County place a ballot item
on for election. (See Chapter 2, F Ballot Measures.)
a. Verbal Comments:
i. Comments shall only be made from the podium microphone, first giving name, city of residence
and subject. No comments shall be made from any other location, and anyone making “out of
order” comments shall be subject to removal from the meeting. An exception to this prohibition
shall be allowed when public comment is only permitted via remote access due to emergency.
The public shall be reminded that this is not an opportunity for dialogue or questions and answers,
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but public comment. When appropriate, staff shall research issues and report back to those
making the comment as well as to Council. Public comments are opportunities for speakers to
briefly address the entire Council, and those speaking are to address members of Council and
not the audience. Speakers should refrain from personal attacks on individual Councilmembers.
In order to prevent disruption of the Council meeting, members of the public are asked to refrain
from distributing materials to the audience, since Council meetings are not a public forum to
address the audience. Since this is an opportunity for public comment relating to city business,
in the interest of time and keeping in mind all documents submitted during Council meetings
become the property of the city, graphs, charts, posterboards, PowerPoint presentations, or
other display materials are not permitted to be displayed or distributed at the place of the
meeting, although written comments and written materials including photographs and petitions
may be submitted to Council via the city clerk.
ii. Demonstration, applause, or other audience participation before, during or at the conclusion
of anyone's public comments is prohibited because it is disruptive. Any disruptive conduct, as
determined by the Presiding Officer, shall be cause for removal from the meeting room. Any ruling
by the Presiding Officer relative to these subsections on public comments may be overruled by a
vote of a majority of Councilmembers present.
iii. Council shall not permit public comments if they relate to any matter upon which a quasi-
judicial hearing has been required, scheduled, or held. (See page 26 for procedure for taking
public comment on legislative matters.)
iv. Disruptive public conduct:
a. Conduct in any form that interferes with Council’s ability to timely conduct the business of
the City will not be allowed. If a situation arises where a speaker exceeds the three minutes
(unless permitted to continue by the Presiding Officer), is speaking on matters other than city
business, or is otherwise disruptive in a manner that interferes with the ability of the Council
to conduct the business of the city, the city clerk, with permission of the Mayor, will turn off
the microphone, and the Mayor will ask the speaker to please stop talking and step away from
the podium. In the case of remote meetings, the speaker will be muted.
b. If the speaker continues after the first request, the Mayor will ask the speaker once again to
stop talking and will warn the speaker that failure to stop will result in a suspension of their
privilege to speak at public comment for 90 days. If the speaker continues, the Mayor will gavel
in a five-minute recess.
c. Upon return from recess, public comment will start again with a caution from the Mayor that
if any other speaker refuses to stop talking after being asked to do so after the three minutes
or is otherwise disruptive, the remainder of the public comment for the night will be
terminated.
d. If necessary in the discretion of the Presiding Officer, and in an attempt to reasonably calm
a situation or resolve a conflict, the city attorney or deputy city attorney shall act as a staff
liaison with a member of the public who refuses to stop talking and refuses to move away from
the podium.
b. Written Comments:
Citizens have the option of submitting written views, opinions, comments, data, and arguments to
Council on any topic and at any time, not just prior to or during public Council meetings. Unless the
Mayor asks the clerk to read written mailed or emailed comments, or the citizen reads their own
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prepared written comments, such comments shall not be read aloud during regular or special
Council meetings although they shall be included as part of the public record on the topic and if
appropriate, may be publicly acknowledged. Any written comments submitted to Council via the city
clerk shall be distributed to Council by placing copies at each Councilmember’s workstation or city
desk; or in the case of emailed or other electronic comments, shall be forwarded to Council via
email, unless such email has already been supplied to members of Council. If individual
Councilmembers receive written (including electronic) public comments or materials for the
purpose of reading/sharing those materials during Council meetings, those materials should be
submitted to the city clerk prior to the Council meeting so the clerk can make copies for later
distribution to members of Council.
c.Electronic Comments:
Councilmembers shall avoid accessing any electronic message during Council meetings. Accessing
such communication could be construed as receiving public comment without the benefit of having
the citizen in person to address their concerns to the entire Council at once. (See also page 21, C9
Internet Use)
2.Council Rules of Order
The city clerk shall serve as the official parliamentarian for all Council meetings, and shall keep a
copy of the most current “Robert’s Rules of Order” (RONR) at meeting locations during Council
meetings.
3.Quorum
At all regular and special meetings of the Council, a majority of the Councilmembers who hold office
shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. A lesser number may adjourn from time to
time, provided that written notice of said adjournment is posted on the exterior doors of the place
where the meeting is held pursuant to RCW 42.30.090. Council meetings adjourned under the
previous provision shall be considered regular meetings for all purposes. (RCW 35A.13.170,
35A.12.120)
4.Seating Arrangement
Councilmembers shall occupy the respective seat in the meeting place assigned to them by the
Mayor.
5.Attendance
a.Unexcused Absences: A Councilmember’s responsibility to attend Council meetings should not
be taken lightly, nor should a decision to remove a Councilmember for missing meetings. Pursuant
to RCW 35A.12.060 “a council position shall become vacant if the councilmember fails to attend
three consecutive regular meetings of the council without being excused by the council.” As soon as
possible after two consecutive unexcused absences, and prior to a third consecutive unexcused
absence, the absent Councilmember must request a leave of absence if they desire to remain on the
Council. At a third consecutive meeting where a Councilmember is not excused and there has been
no request for a leave of absence, the absent Councilmember’s office shall be forfeited effective
immediately.
b.Excused Absences: Members of Council may be excused from meetings with prior notification to
the Mayor, City clerk, or City Manager prior to the meeting, and by stating the reason for the inability
to attend. Acceptable absences may include death of a family member, family or personal illness,
inclement weather, accident, scheduled vacations, family or personal emergency, city-related
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business, or unusual or unforeseen circumstances. Following or prior to roll call, the Presiding
Officer shall inform the Council of the member’s absence, and inquire if there is a motion to excuse
the member. The motion shall be nondebatable. Upon passage of such motion by a majority of
members present, the absent member shall be considered excused and the city clerk shall make an
appropriate notation in the minutes.
c.Leave of Absence: A Councilmember whose serious health or physical condition would prevent
them from performing the duties of Councilmember may ask to be placed on a leave of absence
under the following conditions:
i.Such serious health or physical condition must be certified in writing by a medical
physician.
ii.The request for a leave of absence shall be in writing, and hand-delivered or mailed to the
Mayor, city clerk, or city manager at least one week prior to the date when such leave would
commence.
iii.The request for a leave of absence must state the anticipated date the Councilmember
will resume their duties.
iv.By majority vote of the whole Council, a leave of absence shall be granted as follows:
a.The absence shall not exceed 90 days from the date the motion is passed by Council.
b.The absent Councilmember shall retain pay and medical benefits during the leave of
absence.
c.At the end of the 90-day leave of absence, the absent Councilmember shall either:
i.Return to normal Council duties commencing with the first Tuesday following
the end of the 90-day leave; or
ii.Be subject to RCW 35A.12.060 concerning three consecutive absences,
beginning with the first Tuesday following the end of the 90-day leave.
d.A leave of absence may only be granted twice during a Councilmember’s four-year term, with no
less than six months between each request. Upon approval of a leave of absence, the absent
Councilmember shall not be replaced with a pro-tem Councilmember during the absence.
6.Respect and Decorum
It is the duty of the Mayor and each Councilmember to maintain dignity and respect for their offices,
city staff and the public. While the Council is in session, Councilmembers shall preserve order and
decorum. Councilmembers shall not interrupt or argue with any other member or staff, except in
order to make a Point of Order. Councilmembers shall be courteous in their language and
deportment, and shall not engage in contemptuous or disorderly behavior. Councilmembers shall
not discuss or comment on personalities, make derogatory or accusatory remarks or insinuations
with respect to the Presiding Officer, other Councilmembers, staff, or the public. Councilmembers
shall, at all times, confine their remarks to those facts that are relevant, as determined by the
Presiding Officer to the question or matter under discussion as determined by the Presiding Officer,
subject to appeal the Council body. Councilmembers shall treat all staff as professionals. Clear,
honest communication that respects the abilities, experience, qualifications, and dignity of each
individual is expected.
Councilmembers and the public shall comply with the directives of the Presiding Officer. Any
Councilmember making disruptive, disparaging or impertinent remarks, or unreasonably disturbing
the business of the Council shall be asked to cease such disruption. Any other person attending a
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Council meeting who disrupts the meeting in such a fashion that the Council is impaired in its ability
to attend to the business of the City, may be asked to leave, or be removed from the meeting. At any
time during any Council meeting, any Councilmember may object to personal affront or other
inappropriate comments, by calling for a “Point of Order”. After the Councilmember is recognized
by the Presiding Officer and the Councilmember explains their point concerning respect and
decorum, or lack thereof, the Presiding Officer shall rule on the remark. If the person making the
remark is a Councilmember, the Presiding Officer may ask the Councilmember to cease. If the
person making the remark is a member of the public, the Presiding Officer shall determine if the
remark is actually disruptive, and whether the remark has impaired the ability of the Council to
attend to the business of the city. If so, the Presiding Officer shall seek the removal of that person
from the meeting. Continued disruptions may result in a recess or adjournment as set forth in #10
below.
Councilmembers shall not leave a meeting without being excused by the Presiding Officer, except in
emergency situations. nor shall they Councilmembers shall not encourage or participate in
disruptive behavior originating from the public seating areas.
7. Dissents and Protests
Any Councilmember shall have the right to express dissent from or protest verbally or in writing,
against any motion, ordinance or resolution of the Council and have the reason therefore entered in
the minutes.
8. Remote Participation
a. Remote Council Meetings: In the event of unusual circumstances such as a pandemic or other
health or safety emergency where Council meetings would need to be held in such a manner as to
protect the health, safety and welfare of Council, staff and citizens, participation in such meetings
shall be done remotely provided an option is available for the public to attend through internet or
other electronic means. Council, staff and the public must be able to see and hear the meeting
proceedings. At least a quorum of Councilmembers must be able to participate.
b. Remote Broadcast: All City Council meetings shall be broadcast live using an online remote
meeting platform, such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or another similar platform, to allow citizens to
attend the meetings remotely. Public comment will be accepted from remote attendees at the
appropriate portion(s) of the meeting as defined per the agenda.
c. Councilmembers may appear at a Council meeting by remote connection: Any Councilmember
intending to attend a meeting remotely should notify the Mayor and city clerk in advance of the
meeting, such request shall be for reasons where the Councilmember cannot physically attend the
meeting, and should be made only when necessary. Councilmembers’ cameras should remain on
for the duration of the remote meeting. If a technical problem prevents such participation where the
remote Councilmember cannot hear or be heard, the Councilmember shall be counted as an
excused absence and the technical difficulty shall be stated for the record. During any meeting that
a Councilmember is attending remotely, the Mayor or Presiding Officer shall so state for the record
at the beginning of such meeting. In instances where the Mayor is remotely attending a meeting, the
Mayor may still function as the Presiding Officer. More than one member of Council may attend a
meeting remotely, provided all together in person and remotely, there is a quorum of
Councilmembers attending.
9. Internet Use
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a. Use of the city’s network systems implies Council is aware of and understands that the system is
provided to assist in the performance of their roles as Councilmembers, and as such,
Councilmembers are obligated to use, conserve and protect electronic information and information
technology resources and to preserve and enhance the integrity of those resources which belong to
the citizens of Spokane Valley.
b. As noted on page 21, Councilmembers shall avoid accessing any electronic message during
Council meetings whether by email, text or other means. Accessing such communication could be
construed as receiving public comment without the benefit of having the citizen in person to address
their concerns. Likewise, Councilmembers shall avoid browsing the Internet during Council
meetings in order that Council’s full attention can be given to the topic at hand.
c. Information technology resources are provided for the purpose of conducting official city
business. The use of any of the city’s information technology resources for campaign or political use
is prohibited unless it has been determined by the city attorney, Washington state attorney general,
or Washington Public Disclosure Commission, that such use is not a violation of RCW 42.17A.555 or
is otherwise authorized by law.
d. Confidential material shall not be sent via email or text.
e. All letters, memoranda and interactive computer communication (email, text, tweet, etc.)
involving Councilmembers, the subject of which relates to the conduct of government or the
performance of any governmental function, with specific exceptions stated in the Public Records Act
(RCW 42.56) are public records. Copies of such letters, memoranda and interactive computer
communication shall not be provided to the public or news media without the member of the public
or news media filing a public record request with the city clerk. With this in mind, texting and tweeting
concerning city business is strongly discouraged.
f. Email communications that are intended to be distributed among all Councilmembers, whether
concurrently or serially, shall be considered in light of the Open Public Meetings Act. If the intended
purpose of an email is to have a discussion that should be held at an open meeting, the electronic
discussion should not occur, and Council discussion should wait until everyone has had ample
opportunity to view the message before including such topic(s) on an upcoming agenda.
10. Adjournment Due to Emergency or Disruption
In the event of an emergency such as a fire or other natural or catastrophic disaster, threatened
violence, or inability to regain or retain good order, the Presiding Officer shall forthwith declare a
recess, adjourn or continue the meeting, and the City Council as well as everyone in the room shall
immediately leave the meeting room and if necessary, leave the building. The Presiding Officer may
reconvene the meeting when it has been determined by the appropriate safety officials that it is safe
to do so.
11. Permission Required to Address the Council
Persons other than Councilmembers and staff shall be permitted to address the Council upon
recognition and/or introduction by the Presiding Officer or city manager.
12. Approaching the Dais by Members of the Public
Once a Council meeting has been called to order, members of the public are prohibited from
stepping between the speaker's podium and the dais, or stepping behind any part of the dais or
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stepping behind those sections adjacent to the dais. If citizens wish Council to receive materials,
those materials should be handed to the city clerk prior to the meeting or during the public comment
section of the agenda, and the clerk will distribute the materials to members of Council. Council
reserves the right to invite anyone forward to the podium to be addressed by Council.
13. Out of Order Requests
Occasionally a member of the public may wish to speak on an agenda item but cannot remain until
the item is reached on the agenda. During “General Public Comment Opportunity,” such person may
request permission to speak by explaining the circumstances. The Presiding Officer in his/her sole
discretion shall rule on whether to allow the out of order request. Alternatively, the member of the
public could also discuss their request with the Mayor prior to or after the meeting.
14. Photographs, Motion Pictures or Videos Requiring Artificial Illumination – Prior
Permission Required
No overhead projection, photographs, motion pictures or videos shall be used by the public at City
Council meetings without the prior consent of the Presiding Officer or the city manager.
15. Placing Items on a Future Agenda
a. New Item Council Business: During the Advance Agenda portion of a council agenda, a
Councilmember may request to have items placed on a future agenda. Each request shall be treated
separately. The city manager is most familiar with staff’s workload and shall determine when the
item can be prepared and brought forward to Council, unless the Council wants to discuss the item
prior to staff’s involvement. The following process shall be used to propose an item for a future
Council meeting:
i. A Councilmember may propose an item and give a brief explanation of the issue and its
importance to the City.
ii. Councilmembers may ask clarifying questions.
iii. By a show of hands, a consensus of four or more Councilmembers may move the item
forward to a future agenda.
b. Except for routine items such as those found on most Consent Agendas, requests for items to
come before Council shall be routed through the city manager or come directly from the city
manager as part of the normal course of business.
16. Motions and Discussion
a. Order of Procedure:
i. Member of Council makes a motion by stating: “I move . . .” After the motion is seconded,
staff makes their presentation, then the Mayor will ask Council if there are any questions of
staff. Once all questions have been addressed, the staff member shall step away from the
podium to allow for any public comment.
ii. The Mayor will invite public comments. Public comments should be limited to one
comment per person per topic and limited to three minutes. The Mayor can remind the public
this is time for comments and not discussion; and if the public has questions, those
questions shall be addressed by staff at another time outside the meeting.
iii. The Mayor will open the floor to Council for discussion. The maker of the motion normally
begins the discussion. The discussion must have bearing on whether the pending motion
should be adopted (RONR §43); and can be prefaced by a few words of explanation, but must
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not become a speech (RONR §4). All Council remarks should be addressed through the
Mayor.
iv. When discussion has ended, the Mayor will re-state the motion or ask the clerk to restate
the motion. Once the motion is re-stated, the Mayor will call for the vote, which is normally
taken by voice. The Mayor or the clerk will then state whether the motion passed or failed.
b. In General:
i. Except in rare circumstances, Council motions shall be in the form of an affirmative
motion. Affirmative motions are preferred to prevent “approval by default” of a failed
negative motion.
ii. Unless otherwise stated by the Presiding Officer, agenda items requiring Council action
shall begin with a motion by a Councilmember prior to discussion. If a motion fails, the
agenda item shall be considered concluded. However, said item could be reconsidered if
done during the same meeting, or through Council majority vote it could be brought back at
a later meeting to “rescind an action,” or to “amend something previously adopted.”
(Mayoral appointments excepted. See Chapter 4, page 41 for further discussion on
Committees.)
iii. Councilmembers should direct questions to the city manager or the designated presenter.
iv. Main motions are made when no other motion is pending (see chart below). They are
debatable and subject to amendment. Since seconding a motion means “let’s discuss it,” if
there is no second but discussion ensues, the matter of having a second to proceed is moot
and the motion can proceed. However, if there is no second and no discussion, the motion
does not progress. Note that the motion does not “die for a lack of a second” but it merely
does not progress.
v. The maker of a motion can withdraw their motion with the approval of the majority of
Councilmembers (see notes below table below). The person making the motion is entitled
to speak first to the motion. A maker of the motion may vote against the motion but cannot
speak against their own motion.
vi. No Councilmember should be permitted to speak twice to the same issue until all
Councilmembers wishing to speak have spoken. All remarks shall be directed to the
Presiding Officer and shall be courteous in language and deportment (Robert’s Rules of
Order Newly Revised, Article VII, Section 43, Decorum in Debate), keeping in mind it is not
the Councilmember, but the measure that is the subject of debate.
vii. When an amended motion is on the floor, the vote is taken on whether to adopt the
amendment. If adopted, the next vote is on the fully amended motion.
viii. Motions should be reserved for items marked on the agenda for action, so as to avoid any
surprises for Council, staff and the public.
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Parliamentary Procedure at a Glance
Roberts If you want to:You say:May NeedsaCan be Can be Vote
Rules #interrupt?second?debated?amended?
Postpone
I move to postpone
indefinitely (the
indefinitely….(an affirmative
11purpose is to NoYesYes NoMajority
vote can be reconsidered; a
prevent action or
negative vote cannot)
kill an issue)
Modify wording of I move to amend the motion
12NoYesYesYesMajority
a motionby……
Ex. I move to postpone the
Postpone to a
14motion to the next Council No YesYesYesMajority
certain time
meeting
I move the previous question, Majority
16Close debateNoYesNoNo
or I call for the question2/3
I move to lay on the table, the
17Table a motionNoYesNoNo Majority
motion to…
Complain about
Chair
19noise, room Point of PrivilegeYesYesYesYes
decision
temperature, etc.
20Take a breakI move to recess for…NoYesNoYesMajority
21Adjourn meetingI move to adjournNoYesNoNoMajority
Object to
Chair
23procedure or Point of OrderYesNoNoNo
decision
personal affront
I move to suspend the rules
25Suspend rulesNoYesNoNoMajority
and….
Take matter from I move to take from the table
34NoYesNoNoMajority
the tablethe motion to…
Reconsider
I move we reconsideraction
35something already NoYesYesYesMajority
on…
disposed of
It should be noted that the purpose of tabling a motion is not to simply postpone an issue or a vote.
If the intended purpose is to postpone, then the motion to postpone should be used. If more
information is needed or desired in order to make the most informed vote possible, then an option
would be for the maker of the motion to simply withdraw the motion. The consent of the seconder is
not needed to withdraw a motion, however, withdrawal of a motion should be done with the
approval of a majority of Councilmembers present \[Mayor, I request permission to withdraw my
motion. The Mayor asks if there is any objection, and if none, the motion is withdrawn. If there is
objection, the Mayor will call for a vote.\] While a motion is still on the table, no other motion on the
same subject is in order. The motion to table enables the assembly to lay the pending question aside
temporarily when something else of immediate urgency has arisen. The motion to “Lay on the Table”
is out of order if the evident intent is to kill or avoid dealing with a measure. (Robert’s Rules of Order
th
Newly Revised, 10 Edition)
*Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised states 2/3 vote required. Council direction is to base vote on
majority except on matters where 2/3 (or majority plus one) is required by state statute.
** If the main motion to amend can be amended.
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***Call for the Question: If it is felt that debate on a motion on the floor has continued longer than
warranted, a member of Council may “call for the question.” The “call for the question” is a motion
to end debate and vote immediately. If this “call for the question” motion is passed by a majority
vote, then the vote must be taken on the original debated motion on the floor.
17. Voting
The votes during all meetings of the Council shall be transacted as follows:
a. The Presiding Officer shall first call for a vote from those in favor of the motion, followed by a call
for those opposed to the motion, and afterwards shall state whether the motion passed or failed.
Unless otherwise provided by statute, ordinance or resolution, all votes shall be taken by voice or a
show of hands. At the request of any Councilmember or the city clerk, a roll call vote shall be taken
by the city clerk. The order of the roll call vote shall be determined by the city clerk.
b. Unless otherwise provided by statute, ordinance or resolution, in case of a tie vote on a motion,
the motion shall be considered lost.
c. Every member who was present when the question was called, shall give his/her vote. If any
Councilmember refuses to vote “aye” or “nay,” their vote shall be counted as a “nay” vote unless
the Councilmember has recused themself due to actual or perceived appearance of a conflict of
interest, which shall be so stated prior to the vote at hand. Abstentions are not permitted as
abstentions are equivalent to not voting, and the members of the public expect their elected officials
to vote on issues.
d. The passage of any ordinance, grant or revocation of franchise or license, and any resolution for
the payment of money, any approval of warrants, and any resolution for the removal of the city
manager shall require the affirmative vote of at least a majority of the whole membership of the
Council (RCW 35A.12.120). Except as provided in “e” below, all other motions or resolutions shall
require an affirmative vote of at least a majority of the quorum present.
e. Majority Plus One: The passage of any public emergency ordinance (an ordinance that takes effect
immediately), expenditures for any calamity, violence of nature, riot, insurrection, or war; and
provisions for a lesser emergency, such as a budget amendment (RCW 35A.33.090), shall require
the affirmative vote of at least a majority plus one of the whole membership of the Council. (RCW
35A.13.190).
18. Recusal From Discussion and Consideration
a. Situations may arise when a Councilmember should consider whether to recuse themselves from
the consideration and decision-making on a particular item. These situations can arise in various
ways, including having an interest in a contract being considered by the City, or when a
Councilmember has a bias in some fashion regarding an issue before the Council. For additional
discussion and explanation, please see Appendix C – Spokane Valley Councilmembers’ Statement
of Ethics. The overarching goal of the conflict of interest laws is to prevent municipal officers from
engaging in self-dealing. Seattle v. State, 100 Wn.2d 232, 246 (1983). \[Self-dealing is defined as a
situation in which a fiduciary acts in his own best interest in a transaction rather than in the best
interest of his clients. A fiduciary is legally obligated to act in the best interest of his clients. A
fiduciary is a person to whom property or power is entrusted for the benefit of another.\]
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b. Prohibited acts. There are some conflicts which cannot be waived, and some actions in which
Councilmembers shall not engage. RCW 42.23.070 prohibits municipal officers from:
i. Using “his or her position to secure special privileges or exemptions for himself, herself or
others.”
ii. Directly or indirectly giving or receiving or agreeing to receive “any compensation, gift, reward
or gratuity from a source except the employing municipality, for a matter connected with or
related to the officer’s services as such an officer unless otherwise provided for by law.”
iii. Accepting employment or engaging in business or professional activity that “the officer might
reasonably expect would require or induce him or her by reason of his or her official position to
disclose confidential information acquired by reason of his or her official position.”
iv. Disclosing confidential information “gained by reason of the officer’s position, nor may the
officer otherwise use such information for his or her personal gain or benefit.”
c. Conflict of interest – contracts. In contractual matters, Councilmembers are required to avoid
directly benefitting from contracts entered into by the city. When a Councilmember is aware that
they may benefit from such a contractual relationship, they are required to recuse themselves.
Other situations may arise where a Councilmember may indirectly benefit. In these circumstances,
the determination of whether a conflict of interest exists such that they should recuse themselves
will have to be made by that Councilmember based on facts and circumstances known at the time.
d. Bias for or against a proposed action. There will be situations for each Councilmember where,
based upon their current or prior work or personal relationships, that Councilmember may not be
able to participate in a discussion and decision on a given issue because they likely can’t be
objective. In such an event, the Councilmember must give due consideration to their potential to
be predisposed, and whether they believe they can objectively consider and decide on the issue. If
the answer is yes, then the Councilmember may proceed. If this self-analysis is difficult as to
whether the Councilmember can be objective, but the determination is that they can, the
Councilmember should strongly consider disclosing the nature of the potential bias to the Council,
and then announce whether they believe they can or cannot proceed. If the Councilmember does
not believe they can be reasonably objective, they should recuse themselves from the discussion
and consideration. The purpose for recusal under such circumstances is that the Council wants
the public to have the utmost confidence that decisions are made objectively, and that all citizens
and businesses will be treated equally and fairly.
e. Process and Disclosure. When a Councilmember determines recusal is appropriate, or when it
is required by law, the Councilmember shall announce that they need to recuse themselves,
explain the factual circumstances, then step off the dais and out of the meeting place. A staff
member will retrieve the Councilmember once that issue is finished being discussed. The
determination of whether to recuse oneself from an issue, and then formally recusing, shall occur
before any discussion has taken place on that issue to ensure that Councilmember does not
participate in the matter in any fashion.
f. The following is an example of appropriate language where recusal is warranted:
Following careful analysis and consideration, I think it is appropriate for me to recuse myself from
any discussion and decision on this matter. I have known the owners of * business for * years, am
friends with them, and believe it would be most appropriate for me not to participate in this matter.
As such, I will recuse myself and step out of the room. OR
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Following careful analysis and consideration, I think it is appropriate for me to recuse myself from
any discussion and decision on this matter. I own a business that competes directly with the
business at issue and believe it would be most appropriate for me not to participate in this matter.
As such, I will recuse myself and step out of the room.
g. The following is an example of appropriate language where the Councilmember determines that
he/she does not need to recuse themselves from the matter: Following careful analysis and
consideration, I think it is appropriate for me to participate in the discussion and decision on this
matter. Although I am somewhat familiar with this matter from my prior association with *, I believe
I can be objective and unbiased. As such, I will not recuse myself, and will participate with the rest
of the Council in the discussion and decision.
19. Ordinances
a. Except for unusual circumstances or emergencies, ordinances and resolutions shall customarily
be prepared, introduced and proceed in normal fashion with an administrative report, then first and
second reading in accordance with the “Three Touch Principle.” Prior to final passage of all
ordinances or resolutions, such documents shall be designated as drafts.
b. A Councilmember may, in open session, request the city manager bring forth an ordinance for a
specific purpose.
c. Ordinances shall normally have two separate readings at separate Council meetings. Unless
waived by the City Council at each reading, the title of an ordinance shall be read by the city clerk
prior to its passage. However, if a Councilmember requests that the entire ordinance or certain
sections be read, such request shall be granted. Printed copies shall be available upon request to
any person attending a Council meeting.
d. The provision requiring two separate readings of an ordinance may be waived at any meeting of
the Council by a majority vote of all members present. This would require a successful motion to
suspend the rules and pass the ordinance on a first reading.
e. If a motion to pass an ordinance to a second reading fails, the ordinance shall be considered lost,
unless a subsequent motion directs its revision and resubmission to a first reading.
f. Any ordinance repealing any portion of the Spokane Valley Municipal Code shall also repeal the
respective portions of the underlying ordinance(s). Ordinances repealing earlier ordinances shall not
apply to acts, incidents, transactions or decisions occurring before such repeal.
g. Council may not pass a franchise ordinance at a special meeting \[RCW 35A.47.040\].
h The passage of any ordinance, grant or revocation of franchise or license shall require the
affirmative vote of at least a majority of the whole membership of the Council. \[RCW 35A.13.170\]
i. The passage of any public emergency ordinance (an ordinance that takes effect immediately),
expenditures for any calamity, violence of nature, riot, insurrection, or war; and provisions for a
lesser emergency, such as a budget amendment (RCW 35A.33.090), shall require the affirmative
vote of at least a majority plus one of the whole membership of the Council. (RCW 35A.13.190).
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j. Occasionally, an ordinance will be on an agenda the same night as a public hearing on the same
topic, such as a public hearing on a budget, amended budget, proposed tax, or moratorium, and an
ordinance approving that item. When that occurs, after the public hearing has been closed and
Council moves to the ordinance action item, public comment shall not be taken on the ordinance
since it was just taken as part of the public hearing process. Public comment will also not be taken
during the ordinance’s second reading at a subsequent Council meeting. This procedure will also be
used if a public hearing on a specific issue is held before the Planning Commission; so that when the
resulting ordinance comes before Council, public comment will not be taken on either the first or the
second reading.
20. Resolutions
a. A resolution may be approved on the same day it is introduced. While it is not necessary to have
the title of a resolution read aloud, Council may ask the city clerk to read the resolution title in order
to facilitate public understanding and/or comment. A Councilmember may request that the entire
resolution or certain sections be read, and such request shall be granted and the city clerk shall read
as requested. Printed copies shall be made available upon request to any person attending a Council
meeting.
b. The passage of any resolution for the payment of money, any approval of warrants, and any
resolution for the removal of the city manager shall require the affirmative vote of at least a majority
of the whole membership of the Council.
c. Occasionally, a resolution will be on an agenda the same night as a public hearing on the same
topic, such as a public hearing on an amended Transportation Improvement Program, and a
Resolution approving that amendment. When that occurs, after the public hearing has been closed
and Council moves to the resolution action item, public comment shall not be taken on the
resolution since it was just taken as part of the public hearing process. This procedure will also be
used if a public hearing on a specific issue is held before the Planning Commission, which would
result in a resolution for Council consideration.
21. Community Recognition Program
a. In an effort to acknowledge outstanding citizens, businesses and organizations who have made a
significant contribution, or have had or continue to have, a positive impact on the citizens of our
community, the Council has implemented a Community Recognition Program.
b. Eligibility: Must be a citizen/resident or an owner/operator of a business within Spokane Valley
City limits. City of Spokane Valley elected officials, staff members and their relatives are not eligible
for nomination, however, they may submit nominations. There is no limit to the number of
nominations one may submit.
c. Selection: will be made by the Mayor with confirmation by the Council. If selected, recognition
will take place at a City Council meeting and depending upon the nature of the nomination, the
honoree will be presented with a proclamation, certificate of appreciation, and/or a key to the city.
d. Process: Nominations shall be submitted on a Community Recognition Form, addressed to the
city clerk, and may be made at any time.
e. Selection of these recipient(s) will typically be held during a formal format Council meeting, under
the Agenda Item of Introduction of Special Guests and Presentations.
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22. Proclamations
a. Ceremonial proclamations not associated with the Community Recognition Program.
i. These proclamations are not statements of policy but are a means by which the City can recognize
an event, group or individual. As part of the ceremonial duties of the Mayor, the Mayor is charged
with approval of proclamations at his/her discretion; and reserves the right to decline any
proclamation request as well as the right to make exceptions to these guidelines and procedures.
Individual Councilmembers will not issue proclamations, and requests for a proclamation should be
directed to the Mayor or the city clerk.
ii. Proclamations will be considered for approval which will proclaim certain events or causes when
such proclamation positively impacts the community and conveys an affirmative message to
Spokane Valley residents. Proclamations will not be considered which are potentially controversial,
political or religious in nature, unless approved by the majority of Councilmembers.
iii. Proclamations can be issued at the discretion of the Mayor, and may be for organizations,
individuals, or businesses within or outside Spokane Valley’s jurisdiction.
b. Procedure for proclamations to be read at a Council Meeting:
i. The person making the request need not be a Spokane Valley resident.
ii. Requests should be made at least four weeks in advance of the scheduled Council
meeting.
iii. The person asking for the proclamation should agree to be in attendance or have someone
attend in their stead.
iv. The city clerk will inform the requestor whether the proclamation request is approved.
v. The person making the request shall draft the proclamation and send it to the city clerk
once approval is given.
vi. The city retains the right to modify and/or edit the proposed proclamation as it sees fit
vii. It is the Council’s preference to have proclamations read at formal meetings, which are
generally held the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays; however, proclamations may be read at Study
Sessions due to scheduling conflicts.
c. For those instances where proclamations are requested for events other than to be read at an
open Council meeting, the same procedure as above shall be followed, but instead of having
someone at a Council meeting to officially receive the proclamation, the city clerk will mail the
proclamation to the requestor, or it can be hand-carried by the Councilmember attending the event
to read the proclamation.
d. Reading of these proclamations will typically take place at a formal format Council meeting,
immediately after the Mayor’s report, or could take place as the first agenda item on a Study Session.
23. Taxes: Increasing or Imposing New Taxes
The Council strongly believes in fiscal restraint, and that increasing the tax burden on its property
owners and citizens by increasing or imposing new taxes should be avoided except as a last resort.
In addition to complying with all applicable statutory requirements, increasing or imposing new
taxes should only be done as follows:
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a. As requested by the City Council, the City Manager in consultation with the finance director, shall
notify the city clerk of Council’s desire for a proposed ordinance, and ask the city attorney to prepare
a draft ordinance.
b. Within 14 days following notice to the city clerk, the city clerk shall publish a notice of public
hearing once a week for two consecutive weeks in the official newspaper of the City, stating:
i. The date, time and place of Council’s public hearing.
ii. The purpose of the hearing: that a tax increase or new tax has been proposed.
iii. That a copy of the proposed draft ordinance shall be furnished to any City taxpayer who
requests it; and
iv. That any city taxpayer may appear and provide verbal or written comment for or against
the proposed draft ordinance.
c. Preceding such public hearing, staff will provide an administrative report to Council describing the
financial deficit and need for the increased or new tax; and if Council concurs and after the public
hearing, the proposed draft ordinance shall proceed as follows:
i. Proceed with a first reading of the proposed draft ordinance. (same or different meeting as
the public hearing)
ii. Second reading of the proposed draft ordinance at a subsequent meeting.
d. Approval of increasing or imposing new taxes requires an affirmative vote of a majority plus one
of the whole Council.
24. Hearings \[note: See Appendix A, page 66 for quasi-judicial hearings\]
a. Purpose
i. Held to obtain public input on legislative decisions on matters of policy.
ii. Are required by state law in such matters as comprehensive plan use plans, or annual
budget.
iii. Do not involve legal rights of specific private parties in a contested setting.
iv. Affect a wide range of citizens or perhaps the entire jurisdiction.
v. Decisions reached as a result of these hearings are not second-guessed by the courts, and
if challenged, are reviewed only to determine if they are constitutional or violate state law.
b. Process
i. State statutes do not specify how public hearings should be conducted. Because
legislative hearings are generally informal, the main concern is to provide an opportunity for
all attending members of the public to speak if they desire. Individual comments shall be
limited to a specific amount of time as determined by the Presiding Officer, and the public
should be advised that comments must relate to the matter at hand. The “ground rules” for
the conduct of the hearing may be stated by the Presiding Officer at the beginning of the
hearing:
a. All public comments shall be made from the speaker’s podium, shall be directed to
the Mayor and Council, and any individual making comments shall first give their name
and city of residence. Speakers may be asked to spell their last name because an
official recorded transcript of the public hearing is being made.
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b. No comments shall be made from any other location, and anyone making “out of
order” comments shall be subject to removal from the meeting.
c. Unless otherwise determined by the Presiding Officer, all public comments shall be
limited to three minutes per speaker and members of the public are not permitted to
give any of their own speaking time to other members of the public. This time is an
opportunity to hear from various members of the public in a limited public forum, and
not an opportunity for extended comments or dialogue.
d. At the discretion of the Presiding Officer, members of the public shall only speak
once per issue.
e There shall be no demonstrations, applause or other audience participation, before, during
or at the conclusion of anyone’s presentation. Such expressions are disruptive and take time
away from the speakers.
f. Unless read and/or handed in by the individual speaker during the public hearing,
previously received written public comments shall be read by the city clerk at the pleasure
of the Mayor. In the interest of time, the Mayor may limit the reading of such comments to the
clerk reading who the letter or written material is from, and if easily discernible, whether that
person is for or against the issue at hand. All written comments become an official part of the
record.
g. These rules are intended to promote an orderly system of holding a public hearing, to give
people an opportunity to be heard, and to ensure that individuals are not embarrassed by
exercising their right of free speech.
ii. The Presiding Officer declares that the public hearing on the topic at hand is open,
notes the time for such opening, and asks staff to make their presentation.
iii. After staff presentations, the Presiding Officer calls for public comments.
iv. The Presiding Officer asks if any members of Council have questions of any of the
speakers or staff. If any Councilmember has questions, the appropriate individual shall
be recalled to the podium.
v. The Presiding Officer declares the public hearing closed and notes the time for such
closing.
25. Reconsideration
a. The purpose of reconsidering a vote is to permit change or correction of an erroneous action, or to
take into account added information or a changed situation that has developed since the taking of
the vote. Any action of the Council, including final action on applications for legislative changes in
land use status, shall be subject to a motion to reconsider except:
i. any action previously reconsidered;
ii. motions to adjourn or motions to suspend the rules;
iii. an affirmative vote to lay an item on, or take an item from, the table;
iv. previously passed motion to suspend the rules; or
v. a vote electing to office one who is present and does not decline.
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b. Such motion for reconsideration:
i. Shall be reconsidered during the same Council meeting;
ii. Shall be called up when no business is pending (no action is pending);
iii. If action is pending, the Mayor asks the clerk to note that the motion to reconsider has
been made and shall be taken up when a member calls the motion to reconsider the vote
when no other business (action ) is pending;
iv. Shall be made by a member who voted on the prevailing side on the original motion. This
means a reconsideration can be moved only by one who voted aye if the motion involved was
adopted, or no if the motion was lost. It is permissible for a Councilmember who cannot
make such a motion, but believes there are valid reasons for one, to try to persuade someone
who voted on the prevailing side, to make such a motion.
v. A member who makes this motion should state that he or she voted on the prevailing side;
vi. Needs a second, and can be seconded by any member;
vii. Is debatable if the type of motion it reconsiders is debatable; and
viii. Is not amendable and requires a majority vote to adopt.
c. Step 1: A member of Council who voted on the prevailing side makes the motion, such as "I move
to reconsider the vote on the resolution relating to holidays. I voted for \[or against\] the resolution."
This motion needs a second, which can be seconded by any Councilmember.
d. Step 2: If the motion for reconsideration is adopted, the original motion is then placed before
Council as if that motion had not been voted on previously; and Council again takes that motion
under discussion, followed by a new vote.
e. Any motion for reconsideration of a matter which was the subject of a required public hearing or
which is a quasi-judicial matter, may not be discussed or acted upon unless and until the parties or
their attorneys and the persons testifying have been given at least five days advance notice of such
discussion and/or action.
26. Council Materials
a. Council Material: Councilmembers and staff should read the agenda material and ask clarifying
questions of the city manager or other appropriate staff prior to the Council meeting when possible.
A good opportunity to do this is at the Advance Agenda meeting. Council recognizes there are times
when Councilmembers may wish to bring additional documentation to a meeting on a specific
subject, whether that subject is on the agenda or not, in order to share with Council and staff. When
possible, the materials should be distributed to Councilmembers and staff prior to the Council
meeting, or if distributed during a meeting, Councilmembers should indicate they would like the
materials considered for a future meeting, since except in an emergency, Councilmembers would
normally not take time at the dais to read material just received. Pre-scheduled materials Council
wishes to share as part of the Council packet could also be included on study session agendas under
“Council Comments.”
b. Council Packets: Councilmembers shall personally pick up their agenda packets from their city
desk, unless otherwise arranged by the Councilmember or further directed by Council.
Councilmembers have the option of accessing their Council packet via the City’s website. Unless
notified otherwise, the city clerk shall prepare a hard copy agenda packet for individual
Councilmembers.
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c. Packet Materials: Request for Council Action form (RCA): This is a cover sheet used by staff
to introduce an agenda item. It includes the agenda item title, citing of governing legislation
associated with the topic, previous Council action taken, and background on the topic.
Options for Council consideration are also included, as well as a staff recommended action
or motion. The options and recommended action or motion should be viewed as aids to
Council in making a motion or taking action, but should not be thought of as obligatory, as
Council always has the option of making a motion different from what is included on the
form. Generally, by the time an item is ready for a motion, Council has already read, heard,
and/or discussed the item at least three times (such as an informational item, an
administrative report, and lastly as an action item), and the wording of a motion would not
normally be controversial, although it is important to state the motion as a motion, such as
“I move to” or “I move that” or other similar language.
27. “Three Touch Principle”
Decision makers and citizens at all levels of thecity should have adequate time to thoroughly
consider the issues prior to final decisions. It is the intent of the Council that the Council and
administration shall abide by the “Three Touch Principle” whenever possible. These procedural
guidelines are designed to avoid “surprises” to the City Council, citizens and administrative
personnel. Any request or proposal for adopting or changing public policy, ordinances, resolutions
or City Council directives which require a decision of the City Council or administration, should
“touch” the decision makers three separate times. This includes verbal or written reports,
“information only” agenda items, or any combination thereof. To facilitate the Council’s strategic
use of legislative time at its meeting, staff may satisfy the first touch by issuing an informational
memorandum, unless the subject matter is complex in nature. Quasi-judicial matters and any
subject discussed in executive sessions are excluded from application of the “Three Touch
Principle.”
It is recognized that unexpected circumstances may arise wherein observance of the “Three Touch
Principle” would be impractical. However, when unusual circumstances arise which justify a “first
discussion” decision, the persons requesting the expedited decision should also explain the timing
circumstances. This principle excludes staff reports and other general communications not
requiring a Council decision.
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A. ELECTION OF OFFICERS
Procedures for electing officers are as follows:
1. Biennially, at the first meeting of the new Council, the members thereof shall choose a Presiding
Officer from their number who shall have the title of Mayor. In addition to the powers conferred upon
him/her as Mayor, he/she shall continue to have all the rights, privileges and immunities of a member
of the Council. If a permanent vacancy occurs in the office of Mayor, the members of the Council at
their next regular meeting shall select a Mayor from their number for the unexpired term. Following
the election of the Mayor, election of a Deputy Mayor shall be conducted in the same manner. The
term of the Deputy Mayor shall run concurrently with that of the Mayor. (RCW 35A.13.030) There are
no term limits for the office of Mayor or Deputy Mayor.
2. The election for Mayor shall be conducted by the city clerk. The city clerk shall call for nominations.
Each member of the City Council shall be permitted to nominate one person, and a nomination shall
not require a second. A nominee who wishes to decline the nomination shall so state at that time.
Nominations are then closed. The election for Deputy Mayor shall be conducted by the Mayor, and
nominations shall be made in the manner previously described for the election of the Mayor.
3. Except when there is only one nominee, election shall be by written ballot. Each ballot shall
contain the name of the Councilmember who cast it. Selection of Mayor and of Deputy Mayor shall
each be determined by majority vote of Councilmembers present. The city clerk shall publicly
announce the results of the election. Thereafter, the city clerk shall record the individual
Councilmember’s vote in the minutes of the meeting.
4. If the first round of votes results in no majority vote of Councilmembers present, the voting process
shall be repeated no more than two more times. During subsequent votes, Councilmembers do not
have to vote the same as they did in the previous vote. If after three attempts, Council is unable to
agree on a Mayor by majority vote of Councilmembers present, the office of Mayor shall be
temporarily filled by an Acting Mayor, which shall be the Councilmember who just previously served
as Mayor if that person is still a member of Council, or if the previous Mayor is no longer a
Councilmember, then by the Deputy Mayor, or if such person prefers not to serve as Mayor or if that
person is no longer a member of Council, the Councilmember with the next highest seniority. The
Acting Mayor shall continue in office and exercise such authority as is described in RCW 35A.13 until
the members of the Council agree on a Mayor, which shall be determined at the next scheduled
Council meeting, at which time the role of Acting Mayor shall cease and terminate.
5. At the next scheduled Council meeting voting for Mayor shall proceed in the same manner as the
initial first round of voting from the previous Council meeting, but Councilmembers shall only vote
on the Councilmembers who received the highest number of votes. If after three voting attempts,
there is still no majority vote of Councilmembers present, the vote shall be determined by whichever
Councilmember has the most votes at the third voting attempt. If at that time, there is a two-way tie
of Councilmembers receiving the most votes, the tie shall be broken based on the flip of a coin. The
City Manager shall flip the coin. If there are more than two Councilmembers tying with the most
votes, that tie shall be determined by another means of chance to narrow the Councilmembers down
to two, at which time the outcome shall be determined by written ballot.
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B. FILLING COUNCIL VACANCIES
1. General Process (Note that public comment shall not be taken during this entire process)
If a vacancy occurs on the City Council, the Council shall follow the procedures outlined in RCW
35A.13.020 and Council’s adopted procedure in compliance with RCW 35A.13.020, as well as RCW
42.12.070. The timeline will vary depending on when the process begins. Pursuant to RCW
35A.13.020, City Council has 90 days from the vacancy to appoint a qualified person to the vacant
position. If this timeframe is not met, the City’s authority in this matter would cease and the Spokane
County Board of Commissioners would appoint a qualified person to fill the vacancy. In order to be
qualified to run for Spokane Valley City Council, or hold such position, a person must be \[RCW
42.04.020\] a citizen of the United States, 18 years of age or older, a resident of the City of Spokane
Valley for a year or more preceding his or her election, a registered voter in the City of Spokane Valley
at the time of filing the declaration of candidacy and at the time of filing the declaration of candidacy
if the candidate had ever been convicted of a felony, they must no longer be under the authority of
the Department of Corrections, or currently incarcerated for a felony.
Pursuant to RCW 42.12, remaining members of Council shall appoint a qualified person to fill the
vacancy as an interim position who will serve from the date of appointment until the person elected
in the November odd-numbered year general election takes office, which is the date the election
results are certified, normally around the 26th of November. (See also 35A.12.040) Immediately
upon the election being certified, that just-elected person will take the oath of office, take their
position as a member of Council, and complete the remainder of the unexpired term.
a. Procedure for Filling a Council Vacancy, Timeline/Procedure-Publication: The city clerk
shall publish the vacancy announcement inviting citizens of the City who are interested and
qualified to sit as a Councilmember, to apply on an application form provided by the city (see
Appendix E page 53 for application). Qualifications to sit as a Councilmember are set forth in
RCW 35A.13.020, which refers to RCW 35A.12.030: (1) must be a registered voter of the city
at the time of filing his or her declaration of candidacy; (2) has been a resident of the city for
a period of at least one year next preceding his or her election. Additional qualifications
include those stated above under #1 General Process, and that Councilmembers shall not
hold any other office or employment within the Spokane Valley city government \[RCW
35A.12.030\]. In order to avoid any real or perceived conflict of interest, no member of
Council's immediate family may be currently employed by the City of Spokane Valley since
employment is considered a contractual matter, and a councilmember would have a
prohibited interest in a contract between a family member who is an employee of the city,
and the city. (See Appendix G page 58 Definitions for description of immediate family.) If
possible, the vacancy announcement shall be published for three consecutive weeks.
b. The city clerk shall establish the deadline to receive applications, for example, no later
than 4:00 p.m. on a certain date.
c. RCW 42.30.110(1)(h), set a special meeting with an executive session beginning at 5:00
p.m. Council shall meet and adjourn to executive session to review and discuss all of the
applications. After the review and discussion, Council shall return to meeting place and the
Special Meeting shall be adjourned.
d. Hold a regular 6 p.m. meeting, same evening as above special meeting. Pursuant to RCW
42.30.110(1)(h), Council shall meet in open session and part of this agenda shall include
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selection of applicants to interview. Selection shall be by nomination and second. A vote
shall be taken and candidates receiving a majority vote of those councilmembers present,
shall be interviewed. Immediately after this Council meeting or as soon as practicable, the
clerk shall send a list of potential questions to all those to be interviewed.
e. Schedule the conducting of the interviews for an upcoming Council meeting. Pursuant to
RCW 42.30.110(1)(h), the interviews shall be conducted during an open Council meeting.
Each interview shall be a maximum of 30 minutes.
f. Schedule a special 5 p.m. meeting with an executive session. Pursuant to RCW
42.30.110(1)(h), Council shall meet and adjourn to executive session (closed session) to
discuss applicants. After the discussion, the Special Meeting shall be adjourned as usual.
g. Hold a regular 6 p.m. meeting, same evening as “f” above special meeting. Pursuant to
RCW 42.30.110(1)(h), Council shall meet in open session; and the last action item of that
agenda will include a vote to fill the vacancy. Upon selection of the new Councilmember, that
person shall be sworn in by the city clerk and take their seat at the dais.
2. Nomination Options for Conducting Interviews
a. After holding an executive session to review applications, during a subsequent open session, any
Councilmember may:
i. Nominate an applicant to be interviewed
ii. The nomination must be seconded
iii. Councilmembers may make more than one nomination, but only one at a time
iv. The Mayor shall ask if there are further nominations
v. If no further nominations, the Mayor shall close the nominations
vi. Votes shall be taken on each applicant in the order of nomination
vii. Votes shall be by raised hand
viii. Applicants receiving a majority of votes of those Councilmembers present, shall be
interviewed
ix. Once all voting has taken place, the city clerk shall summarize which applicants shall be
interviewed based on the voting outcome. As soon as possible after the Council meeting, the
city clerk shall notify each applicant to inform them if they will or will not be interviewed;
notify those to be interviewed of the date and time for their interview, and send each person
to be interviewed, the list of possible interview questions; or
x. Instead of the above nomination process, after holding an executive session to review
applications, Council may choose to interview all applicants.
b. The length of the interview shall be determined based upon the number of applicants and
interviews shall be done in last-name alphabetical order. The city clerk shall notify all applicants of
the date, time and procedure for their interview. To keep the process as fair as possible, on the date
of the interview, applicants not yet interviewed shall be asked to wait in a waiting area outside the
meeting place and away from viewing or hearing the meeting’s proceedings.
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c.If during open session, Council has nominated only one person to interview, or in the case of more
than one vacancy, one person per vacancy, Council may forego the interview process and move to
make the appropriate appointment.
3.Interview Questions/Process
During the interview, each Councilmember may ask each candidate a maximum of three questions,
which includes any follow-up questions. Candidates shall be interviewed in alphabetical order of
last name.
4.Nomination and Voting Process to Select Applicant
a.Nomination Process: Councilmembers may nominate an applicant to fill the vacancy. A second
is required. If no second is received, that applicant shall not be considered further unless no
applicant receives a second, in which case all applicants who were nominated may be considered
again. Councilmembers may not make more than one nomination unless the nominee declines the
nomination and unless there is no second to the nomination; in which case the Councilmember
makes another nomination. Once the nominations are given, the Mayor shall close the nominations
and Council shall proceed to vote.
b.Voting Process. RCW 42.12.070 states that where one position is vacant, the remaining members
of the governing body shall appoint a qualified person to fill the vacant position. By adoption of this
policy, Council has chosen the following process for making such appointment:
i.Except when there is only one nominee, a vote for an applicant shall be by written ballot.
Each ballot shall contain the name of the Councilmember who cast it.
ii.The vacancy may only be filled when a majority of the remaining City Council (whether
present or not) affirmatively votes for the applicant, i.e. if five City Councilmembers are
present, this would require at least four Councilmembers voting for an applicant. If
subsequent rounds of voting are needed, each round of voting follows the same process. The
Mayor may ask for Council discussion between voting rounds.
iii.Round One Vote: The city clerk shall publicly announce the results of the election. The
applicant receiving the majority of votes shall be the new Councilmember. If no applicant
receives a majority of votes from the City Council, then the three applicants receiving the
most affirmative votes would be considered in a second round.
iv.Round Two Vote: Round Two proceeds the same as Round One. If one of the three
applicants still fails to receive a majority of affirmative votes, then the two applicants of the
three who received the most affirmative votes would then be considered in a third round; or
if there are only two applicants and they receive tie votes, a third round shall be taken.
Councilmembers may change their vote between rounds.
hree proceeds the same as Rounds One and Two. If after this
v.Round Three Vote: Round T
round, the vote of the two applicants results in a tie, then the city manager, with concurrence
of Council shall flip a coin to determine who shall fill the vacancy, with the applicant whose
last name is closest to the letter A being assigned “heads” and the other person assigned
“tails.” In the rare circumstance where both applicants' last name begins with the same
letter of the alphabet, the applicant whose entire last name is closest to the letter A shall be
assigned “heads” and the other person assigned “tails.” In the equally rare circumstance
where both applicants have the same last name, the applicant whose first name is closest
to the letter A shall be assigned “heads” and the other person assigned “tails.”
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5. Seating of New City Councilmember
Once an applicant either has received a majority of votes or wins the coin flip, if the appointed
applicant is at the meeting, the city clerk shall administer the oath of office, and the new
Councilmember shall be officially seated as a City Councilmember. If the appointed applicant is not
at the meeting, such action is not official until the applicant takes the oath of office.
C. LEGISLATIVE AGENDA
Councilmembers work each year (or sometimes every two years) to draft a State and a Federal
“legislative agenda” to address Council ideas, suggestions and specific legislative programs in
terms of upcoming or pending legislative activity in Olympia and Washington, D.C. that would or
could have an effect on the city. These agendas can also be addressed during Council’s participation
in the Association of Washington Cities (AWC)annual conference, and the annual National League
of Cities Conference held in Washington, D.C.
D. COUNCIL TRAVEL ALLOCATION
Council is allocated a budget to handle certain city business-related travel expenses. The total
allocation of travel funding budgeted for the legislative branch for the fiscal year shall be apportioned
equally among six Councilmembers, and the Mayor may receive additional funding based on the
extra travel demands of the office. These monies may be used to defray expenses for transportation,
lodging, meals and incidental expenses incurred in the conduct of city business. Periodic updated
statements of expenditures are available to Councilmembers upon request to the Finance
Department or the city manager’s executive assistant. Should a Councilmember exhaust their
apportionment of funds, that person shall be personally responsible for payment of any travel and
related expenses unless they have requested and received written affirmation from another
Councilmember of their voluntary allocation to grant the travel related expenses from that granting
Councilmember’s travel apportionment. Such granting of travel allocations shall be documented
with the appropriate completed form (see Appendix F, page 57). During the last six months of a
Councilmember’s current term of office, Councilmembers shall not incur city business-related
travel expenditures outside a 50 mile radius unless such travel fulfills the obligations of the
Councilmember’s service on statewide or regional boards, commissions or task forces.
E. COUNCIL EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENT POLICY
1. Travel Approval and Expense
a. General Travel: Councilmembers are entitled to payment of and reimbursement for lawful
expenditures incurred on official city business when such expenditures are within the allotted
budget. The city shall not reimburse Councilmembers for meals or beverages with constituents
when there is not at least a quorum present as that would not be considered official city business.
The city shall not reimburse an expense associated with fundraising or political events. The city shall
also not reimburse an expense if that expense is reimbursable by another agency. Each
Councilmember shall be permitted to travel within the constraints of each Councilmember’s
allotted budget, which may also include donated allocation(s) from another Councilmember(s). (See
Appendix F page 77 for Request Form.)
b. Allowable Travel Expense. Allowed travel expenses include transportation, lodging, meals, and
other related expenditures lawfully incurred by Councilmembers in the course and scope of their
Councilmember duties.
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i. Meals, transportation and lodging are reimbursed at a cost a cost deemed customary and
reasonable. Meal receipts shall be itemized to receive reimbursement.
ii. Lodging is reimbursed for the actual cost of the room, minus any room extras. If paid in
advance, a receipt is rquired for reimbursement.
ii. Tips are allowable expenditures when they approximate 15% or less, unless the personal
service provider sets a mandatory group rate at a higher percentage, or the tip is already
included in the expenditure. Please carefully examine your bill and be aware of statements
such as “A service charge of __%/$ will be added to your bill.” Reimbursement for tips is
limited to meals, valet services, and taxi/ride share transportation. Tips on meals are
included in the per diem rates above.
iii. Lodging is reimbursed for the actual cost of the room, minus any room extras. A receipt is
required for reimbursement.
iv. When staff is making and paying for air travel arrangements, airline trip insurance may be
purchased on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the City Manager. Times when such
trip insurance may be purchased include necessary travel when the weather is questionable.
v. A monthly mileage stipend of $25 for each Councilmember, and a $50.00 for the Mayor,
shall be provided for local travel for city business within 15 miles from City Hall. If travel is
beyond 15 miles from City Hall, mileage. Mileage shall be reimbursed according to the
current IRS mileage rates for traveled miles as determined by such websites as google
Google maps, or other internet apps or mileage distance calculators, using the shortest
route between two places.
c. Non-Reimbursement or Prohibition of Travel Expense.
Unauthorized travel expenses include but are not limited to the following items, for which no
reimbursement shall be allowed:
i. Liquor Alcoholic beverages
ii. Expense of a spouse or other persons not authorized to receive reimbursement under this
policy
iii. Personal entertainment/movies
iv. Theft, loss, or damage to personal property
v. Barber or beauty parlor hair salon
vi. Airline or other trip insurance (see b iv directly above)
vii. Personal postage
viii. Reading material, except for that associated with official City business
ix. Personal telephone calls
x. Personal toiletry articles, including toothpaste, toothbrush, comb, brush, candy, gum,
tissues, and other miscellaneous items
xi. Dry cleaning/laundry service
xii. Prohibited expenses charged to the City in error shall be immediately reimbursed
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d. Conferences/Meetings/Seminars.
i. Where a meal is included in a registration package, the cost of a meal eaten elsewhere
shall not reimbursed unless its purpose is to allow the conduct of city business.
ii. For meetings or seminars hosted by an organization for which the city pays membership
dues, lodging is limited to the amounts that are reasonable and necessary based upon the
government or conference rate offered by the host hotel(s).
iii. When an extra day’s stay would reduce airfare beyond the extra day’s hotel and meals,
a Councilmember may stay an extra day.
2. Payment of Expenses
a. Use of city credit cards. Use of city credit cards for travel is authorized pursuant to chapter 2.65
SVMC.
b. Prepayment. Examples of travel expenses subject to prepayment include registration fees, airline
tickets, and certain lodging where the cost is part of the registration package. Prepayment is
generally handled by the city manager’s executive assistant.
c. Direct Billing. Direct billing to the city for expenses such as meals and lodging is prohibited.
d. Expense Reimbursement Report. Expense reimbursement forms shall be completed no less than
monthly. Councilmembers shall complete the expense reimbursement form and submit it to
Finance, documenting the amount due the Councilmember or city as appropriate. The actual
amounts expended shall be written on the form with itemized receipts attached. The completed
expense reimbursement form shall be submitted to Finance within 45 days after completing travel.
expense reimbursement forms submitted more than 45 days after completing travel shall not be
honored.
3. Use of Personal Vehicle
a. Reimbursement. Expenses for the use of personally-owned vehicles in the course of city business
are reimbursed at the then-current U.S. Government (IRS) rate. Councilmembers who use their
personal car for city business shall carry, at a minimum, the Washington state required insurance
coverage. Councilmembers shall be responsible for maintaining this coverage at their own cost.
b. Passengers. Should more than one Councilmember travel in the same personal vehicle on city
business, only the individual owning the vehicle is entitled to reimbursement for transportation.
4. Cancellation
A Councilmember shall adhere to cancellation deadlines when canceling conferences, seminars,
regional meetings, hotel, and airfare, or any other pre-payment or obligation made on his/her behalf.
Except in the case of a personal or family emergency, or in the event the cancellation was a city
business decision, expenses incurred by the city resulting from failure to conform to cancellation
deadlines are the personal responsibility of the Councilmember, and those expenses shall be repaid
to the city within 14 calendar days of the cancellation.
F. BALLOT MEASURES:
1. State Law
RCW 42.17A 555. State law has enacted statutory prohibitions (with limited exceptions) against the
use of public facilities to support or oppose ballot propositions:
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“No elective official nor any employee of his or her office nor any person appointed to or
employed by any public office or agency may use or authorize the use of any of the
facilities of a public office or agency, directly or indirectly, for the purpose of assisting a
campaign for election of any person to any office or for the promotion of or opposition to
any ballot proposition. Facilities of a public office or agency include, but are not limited
to, use of stationery, postage, machines, and equipment, use of employees of the office
or agency during working hours, vehicles, office space, publications of the office or
agency, and clientele lists of persons served by the office or agency. However, this does
not apply to the following activities:
(1) Action taken at an open public meeting by members of an elected legislative
body or by an elected board, council, or commission of a special purpose district
including, but not limited to, fire districts, public hospital districts, library districts,
park districts, port districts, public utility districts, school districts, sewer districts,
and water districts, to express a collective decision, or to actually vote upon a
motion, proposal, resolution, order, or ordinance, or to support or oppose a ballot
proposition so long as (a) any required notice of the meeting includes the title and
number of the ballot proposition, and (b) members of the legislative body,
members of the board, council, or commission of the special purpose district, or
members of the public are afforded an approximately equal opportunity for the
expression of an opposing view.
(2) A statement by an elected official in support of or in opposition to any ballot
proposition at an open press conference or in response to a specific inquiry;
(3) Activities which are part of the normal and regular conduct of the office or
agency.” \[emphasis added\]
2. City’s Implementation of RCW 42.17A.555
In the city’s implementation of RCW 42.17A.555, the City Council shall not, during any part of any
Council meeting, consider requests from outside agencies or individuals, for Council to support or
oppose ballot measures; nor shall Council permit any public comment on any past, current, or future
possible/proposed ballot issue, whether or not such comments seek endorsement or are just to
inform Council of upcoming or proposed ballot issues; nor shall Councilmembers disseminate
ballot-related information.
3. Providing Informative Materials to Council
The requestor has the option of mailing materials to individual Councilmembers via the United
States Postal Office (USPS). Because even the use of email for ballot purposes could be construed
as use of public facilities and could be interpreted as being in violation of RCW 42.17A.555, materials
should be sent via regular mail through USPS. Information shall be objective only and not soliciting
a pro or con position.
4. Public Comment
Council has determined that ballot issues (including past, current, or possible/proposed ballot
issue) are not the business of the city, and has chosen not to support or oppose ballot issues as
those are left to the will of the people voting. The use of any of the city’s facilities including the use
of the Council chambers, other meeting location, and/or broadcast system would likely be
construed as being in violation of RCW 42.17A.555 and therefore, general public comment on ballot
issues, or proposed ballot issues shall not be permitted. (See page Chapter 1, C Public Comments
for more specific direction on allowable public comment)
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A. CITIZEN CONTACT/INTERACTIONS OUTSIDE OF A COUNCIL MEETING
1. Mayor/Council Correspondence
Councilmembers acknowledge that in the Council/Manager form of government, the Mayor is
recognized by community members as a point of contact. To facilitate full communications, staff
shall work with the Mayor to circulate to Councilmembers, copies of emails and written
correspondence directed to the Mayor regarding City business. This provision shall not apply to
invitations for mayoral comments at various functions, nor requests for appointments or other
incidental contact between citizens and the office of the Mayor.
2. Concerns, Complaints and Suggestions to Council
When citizen concerns, complaints or suggestions are brought to any, some, or all Councilmembers,
the Councilmember should, when deemed appropriate and/or necessary, consult with the city
manager to, first determine whether the issue is legislative or administrative in nature and then:
i. If legislative, and a concern or complaint is about the language or intent of legislative acts
or suggestions for changes to such acts, and if such complaint suggests a change to an
ordinance or resolution of the City, the matter may be referred, with Council consensus, to
committee, administration, or to the Council for study and recommendation.
ii. If administrative, and a concern or complaint regards administrative staff performance,
execution of legislative policy or administrative policy within the authority of the City
Manager, the Councilmember should then refer the complaint directly to the City Manager
for review, if said complaint has not been so reviewed. The City Council may direct that the
City Manager brief the Council when the City Manager's response is made.
3. Administrative Complaints Made Directly to Individual Councilmembers
a. When administrative policy or administrative performance complaints are made directly to
individual Councilmembers, the Councilmember should then refer the matter directly to the city
manager for review and/or action. The individual Councilmember may request to be informed of the
action or response made to the complaint. However, the city manager shall not be required to
divulge information he/she deems confidential, in conformity with applicable statutes, ordinances,
regulations, policies or practices.
service or administrative appeals which may actually delay a timely customer service response. The
best policy is to get the citizen into direct contact with customer service unless an unsatisfactory
result has occurred in the past. In that case, refer to the paragraph above.
4. Social Media
Councilmembers shall comply with the City Councilmember Social Media Policy which is attached
hereto as Appendix H and wholly incorporated herein.
5. Donations
On occasion, Councilmembers could be contacted by citizens or businesses regarding
donations. See Spokane Valley Municipal Code 3.34. for policy on donations.
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B. STAFF CONTACTS AND INTERACTIONS
1. Role of the City Manager
The city Manager is the chief administrative officer of the City of Spokane Valley. The city manager is
directly accountable to the City Council for the execution of the City Council's policy directives, and
for the administration and management of all City departments. The powers and duties of the city
manager are defined by Washington law RCW 35A.13.080. Such duties may be expanded by
Ordinance or Resolution. Balanced with the city m
policy implementation is the need for the Council to allow the city manager to perform legally defined
duties and responsibilities without interference by the City Council in the management decisions of
the city manager.
2. City Staff Attendance at Meetings
a. The City Manager or his/her designee shall attend all meetings of the City Council, unless excused
by the Presiding Officer or Council. The city manager shall be responsible to the Council for the
proper administration of all affairs of the city. The city manager shall recommend for adoption by the
Council such measures as he/she may deem necessary or expedient; prepare and submit to the
Council such reports as may be required by the body or as the city manager deems advisable to
submit; keep the Council fully advised as to the business of the eity; and shall take part in the
eity. (RCW 35A.13.080)
city manager schedule adequate administrative support during
Council meetings for the business at hand, keeping in mind that the city manager must also protect
the productive capability of department directors and of all staff. Required attendance at meetings
by city staff shall be at the pleasure of the city manager.
3. City Clerk - Minutes
The city clerk, or in the cdeputy city clerk shall keep minutes as required by law
and shall perform such other duties in the meeting as may be required by the Council, Presiding
Officer, or city manager. In the absence of the city clerk and the deputy city clerk, the city clerk shall
appoint a replacement to act as clerk during the Council meeting. The clerk shall keep minutes which
identifies the general discussion of the issue and complete detail of the official action or agreement
reached, if any. As a rule and when possible and practical, regular meetings, or those Council
meetings held at 6 p.m. on Tuesdays, (which includes formal format and study session format) shall
be video-recorded. Special meetings shall not normally be video-recorded. Executive Sessions shall
not be video or audio recorded. Original, signed and approved minutes shall be kept on file in the City
Office and archived according to Washington state record retention schedules. Copies of the
approved minutes shall also be posted on the c
are approved and signed. Whenever possible, video recordings of Council meetings shall be posted
on the c
4. Administrative Interference by Councilmembers
Neither the Council nor any of its committees or members shall direct or request the appointment
of any person to, or his/her removal from, any office by the city manager or any of his/her
subordinates. Except for the purpose of inquiry, the Council and its members shall deal with the
administrative branch solely through the city manager and neither the Council nor any committee or
member thereof shall give any directives, tasks, or orders to any subordinate of the city manager,
either publicly or privately; provided, however, that nothing herein shall be construed to prohibit the
Council, while in open session, from fully and freely discussing with the city manager anything
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pertaining to appointments and removals of city officers and employees and city affairs. (RCW
35A.13.120.)
5. Informal Communications Encouraged
RCW 35A.13.120 should not be construed as to prevent informal communications with city staff that
do not involve orders, direction, or are meant to influence actions or administrative policy. Members
of the Council are encouraged to interact informally and casually with city staff for the purpose of
gathering information, obtaining explanations of policies and programs or providing incidental
information to staff relevant to their assignment. Such informal contacts can serve to promote better
understanding of specific city functions and problems. However, Councilmembers must be careful
in such interaction to avoid giving direction or advice to members of city staff. While maintaining
open lines of communication, city staff responding to information requests from Councilmembers
shall inform their supervisor of such contact and provide the supervisor with the same information
shared with the Councilmember.
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A.COMMITTEES, COMMISSIONS AND BOARD OF OUTSIDE
ORGANIZATIONS OF WHICH THE CITY IS A MEMBER
1. Appointment, Removal, and Attendance
a. Spokane Valley Councilmembers and/or residents who seek representation on any committee,
board, or commission for which a representative of the city is required by Washington law or to which
the c
b. Appointment Process: Any committee, board, commission, task force, etc., requiring Mayoral
appointment of committee members, shall also require confirmation by the Council, which shall be
by majority vote of those present at the time the vote takes place. By majority vote, Council can reject
the appointment. If Council fails to confirm the recommended appointment, the Mayor could either
make another recommendation, or the appointment may be postponed to a later date, giving city
staff opportunity to further advertise for committee openings. This process also applies to the annual
appointment of Councilmembers to Committees and Boards, which is usually done during the first
few weeks of January.
c. Attendance at Committee/Board meetings: Attendance at these meetings is important so that a
assigned Councilmember cannot attend the committee meeting, every effort should be made to give
advance notice to the committee alternate to attend in their stead if possible.
d. Removal Process of Councilmember. Any Councilmember on any committee, board,
commission, task force, etc., requiring Mayoral appointment, may be removed by the Mayor, with
confirmation by the Council, which shall be by majority vote of those present at the time the vote
takes place.
e. Removal Process of Citizen: Any citizen on any committee, board, commission, task force, etc.,
requiring Mayoral appointment, may be removed by the Mayor, with confirmation by the Council,
which shall be by majority vote of those present at the time the vote takes place. Reasons for
removal include conflict of interest, unexcused multiple absences, or for those committees which
require the appointee to be a Spokane Valley citizen, failure to qualify as to residency.
f. A Councilmember or citizen may resign due to conflicts of time or scheduling commitments, or
other personal reasons. A vacancy caused by resignation shall be filled as soon as appropriate, but
not sooner than two weeks, with notation of such on the advance agenda.
g. These committee and commission board appointments, as well as removals, shall be placed as
action items on Council meeting agendas, and when possible and practical, will be noted on the
Advance Agenda at least two weeks prior to such action.
h. If an outside organization committee offers a Councilmember a position on said committee, and
the Councilmember accepts the appointment without the official approval of the Mayor which has
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been confirmed by Council, then the Councilmember shall resign from the outside organization
committee. If the Councilmember does not so resign, then (1) the Councilmember is prohibited from
using city funds or resources for purposes related to their participation on the committee, or to
not as a representative of the
city or Council; and (3) the Councilmember shall notify said committee in writing that his service
thereon is only as a private citizen and not as a representative of the city or Council. The Mayor may
also send formal written notification to the outside organization committee that said
Councilmember does not have authority to represent the city or Council on said committee.
2. Council Relations with Outside Boards, Commissions and Council Citizen Advisory
Bodies to Which They Are Appointed
a. The purpose of these appointments is to provide Council with insight into areas of interest or
concern within each board. As liaisons and representatives of the city, it is the duty of
Councilmembers to remember that their sole purpose in attending these meetings and participating
as an appointed board/committee member is to represent the city; and as such during those
meetings, Councilmembers may not act as a representative of any other business, group or
organization without the express consent of the Council.
b. Councilmembers are encouraged to share with all Councilmembers, copies of minutes from any
statutory boards, commissions, or committees on which they serve and participate.
Communications from such boards, commissions and bodies to the City Council which seek action
or feedback, should be acknowledged by the Council, preferably by a letter from the Mayor. Any
requests that any such communication be officially answered by the Council, the Presiding Officer
may place the matter on an upcoming agenda for a specific Council meeting or take other
appropriate action.
B. IN-HOUSE COMMITTEES, BOARDS, ETC.
1. The members of standing committees, boards, and/or commissions of the City (collectively
-shall be appointed by the Mayor for a
time certain (not to exceed the term provided by law or the term of office of the appointing Mayor)
with Council confirmation by majority vote. Such appointments are generally made at the first or
second meeting in January. The Mayor, with approval by majority vote of those Councilmembers
present at the time the vote occurs, has authority to remove and replace members from in-house
committees. Following are established in-house committees:
a. Planning Commission -- 7 members.
There is created the City of Spokane Valley Planning Commission (hereafter referred to as
recommendations to the Mayor and City Council for future planned growth through
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continued review of the c
shoreline management, environmental protection, public facilities, capital improvements
and other matters as directed by the City Council.
18.10.020 Membership
A. Qualifications. The membership of the Planning Commission shall consist of individuals
who have an interest in planning, land use, transportation, capital infrastructure and building
and landscape design as evidenced by training, experience or interest in the city.
B. Appointment. Members of the Planning Commission shall be nominated by the Mayor
and confirmed by a majority vote of at least four members of the City Council. Planning
commissioners shall be selected without respect to political affiliations and shall serve
without compensation. The Mayor, when considering appointments, shall attempt to select
residents who represent various interests and locations within the city.
C. Number of Members/Terms. The Planning Commission shall consist of seven members.
All members shall reside within the City limits. Terms shall be for a three-year period and
shall expire on the 31st day of December.
D. Removal. Members of the planning commission may be removed by the Mayor, with the
concurrence of the City Council, for neglect of duty, conflict of interest, malfeasance in
office, or other just cause, or for unexcused absence from three consecutive regular
meetings. Failure to qualify as to residency shall constitute a forfeiture of office. The decision
of the City Council regarding membership on the planning commission shall be final and
without appeal.
E. Vacancies. Vacancies that occur other than through the expiration of terms shall be filled
for the unexpired term in the same manner as for appointments.
F. Conflicts of Interest. Members of the planning commission shall fully comply with Chapter
42.23 RCW, Code of Ethics for Municipal Officers; Chapter 42.36 RCW, Appearance of
Fairness; and such other rules and regulations as may be adopted from time to time by the
City Council regulating the conduct of any person holding appointive office within the city.
No elected official or c
b. Lodging Tax Advisory Committee - 5 members.
The City Council shall establish a lodging tax advisory committee consisting of five members.
Two members of the committee shall be representatives of businesses required to collect
the tax, and at least two members shall be persons involved in activities authorized to be
funded by this chapter. The city shall solicit recommendations from organizations
representing businesses that collect the tax and organizations that are authorized to receive
funds under this chapter. The committee shall be comprised equally of members who
represent businesses required to collect the tax and members who are involved in funded
activities. One member of the committee shall be from the City Council. Annually, the
membership of the committee shall be reviewed. The Mayor shall nominate persons and the
Councilmember for the lodging tax advisory committee with Council confirmation of the
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nominees. Nominations shall state the term of committee membership. Appointments shall
be for one- and two-
c. Finance Committee- 3 members.
The Finance Committee generally consists of three Councilmembers. Meetings are
conducted on an as-needed basis as determined by the city manager. Matters that should
be addressed by the Finance Committee, include, but are not limited to:
i. Authorizing on short notice, approval of change orders that are in excess of the amounts
authorized in SVMC 3.35.010(C), in circumstances where such a change order is
necessary to avoid a substantial risk of harm to the City. In such an event, the City
Manager shall provide appropriate information to the city council at its next regular
meeting setting forth the factual basis for the action.
ii. D
business-related travel expenditures requires the prior authorization of the Finance
service on statewide or regional boards, commissions or task forces.
iii. A Councilmember shall adhere to cancellation deadlines when canceling
conferences, seminars, regional meetings, hotel, and airfare, or any other pre-payment
or obligation made on his/her behalf. Except in the case of a personal or family
emergency, or in the event the cancellation was a city business decision, expenses
incurred by the city resulting from failure to conform to cancellation deadlines are the
personal responsibility of the Councilmember and those expenses shall be repaid to the
city within fourteen calendar days of the cancellation. This is generally tracked by the city
mexecutive assistant.
d. Governance Manual Committee 5 - 6 members.
This committee usually consists of two or three Councilmembers, the city manager, the city
attorney, and the city clerk. The purpose of this Committee is to periodically review the
Governance Manual for edits needed for clarity or correction, or to add or edit specific
sections by Council consensus, or by request of staff as the need arises. After discussion as
a committee, the matter may be scheduled as an administrative report on a future Council
agenda. The finalized Governance Manual shall be approved via resolution. All edits,
revisions, and additions to the Governance Manual shall be approved via a resolution. All
reports to Council regarding adoption of any proposed edits, revisions, and/or additions to
the Governance Manual shall be presented by a Councilmember sitting on this committee,
who shall be chosen by (a) the Councilmembers on the Committee, or (b) the Mayor if the
Committee Councilmembers are unable to agree on the same. This committee should strive
to meet quarterly throughout the year, e.g. in February, May, August, and November.
e. Agenda Committee Mayor, Deputy Mayor, city manager, city clerk
individual invitation, the Mayor may invite a third Councilmember to attend this weekly
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discretion. Other staff may be invited at the discretion of the city manager. As noted in
Chapter 1(B)(4), this committee generally meets at a fixed weekly time to review the Council
agenda of the upcoming meeting as an opportunity to ask questions and/or request
additional materials or research needed for the impending meeting, and to review the
Advance Agenda, which is a planning document to aid in scheduling items on future Council
agendas. Since this is a standing committee of the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, city manager, and
city Clerk, no committee appointments are necessary.
f.Public Safety Committee 5- 6 members
This is an ad hoc committee that meets on an as-needed basis to discuss and provide input
into critical pending public safety issues. With the the
extensive number of issues facing the city related to public safety, this committee will allow
discussion on issues in a timelier manner and in advance of full city Council discussions.
Meetings will be called by the city manager and deputy city manager, and both will attend the
committee meetings. This committee will sunset as determined by recommendation from
the Mayor, with approval of the Council.
2.When required by law, committee meetings should be open to the public, including the media,
unless discussing matters which would qualify for an executive session if discussed within the whole
Council. All Council committee meetings shall be for the purpose of considering legislative policy
matters, rather than administrative matters unless requested by the city manager. Legislative policy
considerations should be brought to the Council unless referred to a committee for pre-study.
3.The Mayor may appoint such other ad hoc advisory committees or liaisons from the Council or
community for the purpose of advising the Council in legislative policy matters. All ad hoc
conclusion of the assigned task. As with all committee vacancies, ads announcing a vacancy or
soliciting membership or participation in a task force or other committee shall be placed on the c
website, and in the cial newspaper.
C.PRIVATE COMMITTEES, COMMISSIONS, AND BOARDS
The Council recognizes there are various other private committees, boards and commissions
(, such as Spokane Neighborhood
Action Partners (SNAP), which appointments are made by their own board. These boards and
committees do not require an appointment by our Mayor or confirmation by our Council but are
nonetheless important aspects of our community and we recognize the time commitment any
Councilmember may extend as a member of any of those committees and/or boards. As well,
Council appreciates hearing a periodic report or update on activities and issues surrounding those
boards and committees.
However, a Councilmember sitting on such a committee, board, or commission may only participate
in their capacity as a private citizen. Councilmembers are prohibited from (a) acting on such
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committees in any capacity as a representative of the city; (b) characterizing, either by omission or
affirmative action, their committee participation as being on behalf of or as a representative of the
city; and/or (c) using city funds or resources for purposes related to their participation on the
committee, or to otherwise further the interests of any committee.
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A.PURPOSE
The behavior and actions of individual Councilmembers can affect, both positively and negatively,
the perception of the entire Council and public confidence in the Council and the city. Therefore,
each Councilmember has a vested interest in promoting the ethical and professional conduct of
his/her fellow Councilmembers.
In order to foster an environment of ethical and professional conduct by all Councilmembers, the
Council has adopted the following process to be implemented in the event a Councilmember(s) is
alleged to have violated a provision of:
(1)Sections A.1.h, A.2., or C of Chapter 4 of this Governance Manual;
(2)the Statement of Ethics attached as Appendix C to this Governance Manual;
(3)the Social Media Policy attached as Appendix H to this Governance Manual;
(4)Chapter 42.23 RCW (Code of Ethics for Municipal Officers);
(5)Chapter 42.30 RCW (Washington Open Public Meetings Act);
(6)RCW 42.17A.555 (prohibiting use of public facilities for campaigning);
(7)RCW 35A.13.120 (prohibiting interference with administrative/executive staff);
(8)paragraph D.1.b herein and set forth below, or
(9)other applicable laws and/or regulations governing the conduct of the Councilmembers in their
capacity as elected public officials.
B.COUNCIL CONDUCT STANDARDS
The “Council Conduct Standards” consist of items (1) through (9) described in the immediately
preceding section.
C.COMPLIANCE REQUIRED
All Councilmembers must abide by the above-identified Council Conduct Standards. Any
Councilmember alleged to have violated the Council Conduct Standards is subject to the below
enforcement provisions. However, said enforcement provisions shall apply only to that conduct
occurring after the date Council passed the resolution adopting this Chapter 5 of the Governance
Manual.
D.ENFORCEMENT PROCEDURE
1.Complaint: Any Councilmember may submit a written complaint to the city manager alleging a
fellow Councilmember(s) has violated, during their tenure as an elected Councilmember, one or
more provisions of the Council Conduct Standards. The following subsections apply to all such
complaints.
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a.Required Content of Complaint: The written complaint must identify the (i) Councilmember
submitting the complaint; (ii) Councilmember alleged to have violated the Council Conduct
Standards, (iii) specific Council Conduct Standards alleged to have been violated, and (iv)
specific conduct the accused Councilmember is alleged to have committed.
To the extent known by the Councilmember submitting the complaint, the complaint shall
also identify the following for each alleged violation (i) when the violation occurred, (ii) where
and how the violation occurred, (iii) all individuals believed to have witnessed, or otherwise
have firsthand knowledge of the alleged conduct, and (iv) documents/records related to the
alleged conduct (including the identity of the custodian and the location of said
documents/records). If the complaining Councilmember has information or
documents/records in their possession that tend to support or discredit the allegations, they
must provide the same with the written complaint.
b.Frivolous Complaints Prohibited: Councilmembers are prohibited from submitting
Frivolous Complaints under this Chapter. If the Investigator (identified in paragraph 2
below) determines during their review/investigation that a Councilmember has submitted a
Frivolous Complaint, then the submission of the complaint itself shall be a violation of the
Council Conduct Standards subject to discipline under this Chapter 5.
“Frivolous Complaint” is defined as a complaint that:
(i)contains false allegations, and no facts have been presented or revealed during the
investigation of the complaint that would cause an unbiased person, exercising
reasonable judgment and discretion, to believe the false allegations were true;
and/or
(ii)is determined by the Investigator to be unfounded, and the Investigator determines
that the Councilmember who submitted the complaint possessed information or
physical evidence discrediting the veracity of the allegations but did not provide it to
the Investigator.
2.Review/Investigation: Upon receipt of the written complaint, the city manager shall promptly
retain an independent third-party attorney (hereinafter “Investigator”) to conduct an independent
review and investigate the complaint and allegations therein as follows:
a.
the complaint alleges an actionable claim. If the Investigator determines that the complaint
fails to allege conduct which, when assuming the allegations to be true, constitutes a
violation(s) of the Council Conduct Standards, then the complaint shall be considered
report to the city manager explaining the basis for
The Investigator’s delivery of the written report to the city manager shall close the matter.
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If the Investigator determines that the complaint alleges conduct which, when assumed to
be true for purposes of initial review, constitutes a violation(s) of the Council Conduct
Standards, then the Investigator shall conduct a full investigation of the al
in the complaint.
b.Investigation. The Investigator shall investigate the allegations in the complaint and
determine whether, on a more probable than not basis, that the accused Councilmember
violated the Council Conduct Standards. The Investigator may use all reasonable and lawful
means to investigate the allegations, including but not limited to interviewing witnesses,
obtaining documents pertinent to the allegations, and interviewing the Councilmember
alleged to have committed a violation(s). Regardless of whether they are the subject of a
complaint hereunder, all Councilmembers shall reasonably cooperate with the investigation
and make themselves reasonably available to answer questions and provide documents
requested by the Investigator.
If a subject Councilmember refuses to participate in the investigation or fails to timely deliver
documents requested by the investigator, it will be understood that the subject
Councilmember does not dispute the complaint.
c.Report. After completing the investigation, the Investigator shall provide a written report to
the City Manager that contains the following: (a) a summary of the complaint and matter(s)
investigated, (b) the steps taken by the Investigator to review and/or investigate the
evidentiary bases therefore, (d) a conclusion/determination as to whether the Council
Conduct Standards were violated, (e) for each standard violated,
Conduct Standard violated and the facts demonstrating the violation occurred, and (e)
recommendation(s) as to whether and what corrective action, if any, should be taken under
the circumstances.
If the Investigator concludes that a Frivolous Complaint was submitted, then the
Investigator’s report shall also include the above information regarding the Frivolous
Complaint.
The city manager shall deliver, without undue delay, a copy of the Investigator’s report to the
Councilmember that was the subject of the investigation. If the Investigator’s report
determines a Frivolous Complaint was submitted, then a copy shall also be delivered to the
Councilmember who submitted the Frivolous Complaint. Delivery by email to the
city-
deemed to have been completed at the time the email was sent to the Councilmember.
3.Hearing: If the Investigator’s report contains a finding that an accused Councilmember
violated one or more Council Conduct Standards (including filing a Frivolous Complaint), then said
Councilmember has the right to request a hearing before the city hearing examiner to contest the
Investigator’s findings and/or conclusions.
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a.To request a hearing, the Councilmember found to have violated the Council Conduct
Standards (hereafter the “Subject Councilmember”) must deliver a request for hearing to the
city Manager by 5p.m. on the seventh (7th) business day following the date the city manager
delivered the Investigator’s report to the Subject Councilmember. Delivery of a hearing
request shall be by email to the city manager’s official city-issued email address.
If a Subject Councilmember fails to timely deliver the hearing request, then it will be
understood that the Subject Councilmember does not dispute the Investigator’s findings and
conclusions, and the matter shall proceed to the Council Review Meeting identified herein.
b.At the hearing, (a) the Investigator shall present the evidence supporting the findings and
conclusions in the Investigator’s report, and (b) the Subject Councilmember may present
evidence in their defense. The Subject Councilmember may represent themself or retain
their own attorney at their own expense.
c.The proceedings before the hearing examiner shall be scheduled and conducted as
identified in Appendix B of the Spokane Valley Municipal Code. The hearing examiner’s
decision is the final decision of the City on the matter.
4.Council Review Meeting: If the hearing examiner determines that no violation occurred, then
the decision shall be final, and the matter closed. If the hearing examiner issues a decision finding,
on a more probable than not basis, that the Subject Councilmember violated the Council Conduct
Standards or filed a Frivolous Complaint, or the Subject Councilmember did not timely request a
hearing, then an Executive Session of the Council will be called as soon as practicable to discuss
the complaint, the hearing examiner’s findings and/or the Investigator’s report, and potential
corrective action by Council (hereinafter referred to as “Council Review Meeting”). However, the
Subject Councilmember(s) may insist any discussion of the violation(s) found against her/him take
place in a meeting of the Council open to the public, in which case the discussion shall take place in
an open public meeting of the Council. Regardless of whether the Council Review Meeting occurs in
an Executive Session or open public meeting, the Subject Councilmember(s) shall be provided up to
fifteen (15) minutes to speak to the hearing examiner’s findings and conclusions (or Investigator’s
report when no hearing is timely requested) during the Council Review Meeting.
Following a discussion by the Council of the violation(s), the Council may:
a.Take no action.
b.In an open public session of the Council, by a majority-plus-one vote of the Council, issue
a verbal Reprimand of the Subject Councilmember(s) found to have committed a
violation(s). A verbal Reprimand declares the conduct of a Subject Councilmember(s) to be
unacceptable but not of such severity as to warrant a Public Censure. Issuance of the verbal
Reprimand shall include a description of the violation(s) and the Hearing Examiner’s findings
and conclusions. In the case where the Subject Councilmember(s) did not timely request a
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Chapter 5: Council Conduct Standards & Enforcement | Approved April 16, 2024
hearing, then the verbal reprimand shall also include a description of the Investigator’s
report.
Following the issuance of the verbal Reprimand, the Subject Councilmember(s) found to
have committed a violation(s) shall be provided fifteen (15) minutes during the open public
meeting to speak to the Hearing Examiner’s findings (and/or Investigator’s report) and/or
Council’s disciplinary decision in the following circumstances: (1) the Council Review
Meeting occurred in an Executive Session of Council, or (2) the Council Review Meeting
occurred in a separate open public meeting prior to the open public meeting at which the
discipline is imposed.
c.If a majority-plus-one of the Council determines the severity of the violation(s) committed
by a Subject Councilmember(s) is of such magnitude, OR that the Subject
Councilmember(s) who was previously issued a verbal Reprimand commits subsequent
violations, the Council may, in an open public session of the Council:
i.By way of a formal resolution adopted by a majority-plus-one vote of the Council, issue
a Public Censure of the Subject Councilmember(s) found to have committed a severe
or subsequent violation(s). A Public Censure declares that a Subject Councilmember(s)
has committed a violation(s) that requires admonishment greater than that provided for
in a verbal Reprimand but does not require additional measures be taken. The Public
Censure resolution shall include a description of the violation(s) and a copy of the
hearing examiner’s findings and conclusions. In the case where the Subject
Councilmember(s) did not timely request a hearing, then the resolution shall also include
a copy of the Investigator’s report.
Following the adoption of the Public Censure resolution, the Subject Councilmember(s)
found to have committed a violation(s) shall be provided fifteen (15) minutes to speak to
the hearing examiners findings, Investigator’s report, and/or Council’s disciplinary
decision, but only in the following circumstances: (1) the Council Review Meeting
occurred in an Executive Session of Council, or (2) the Council Review Meeting occurred
in a separate open public meeting prior to the open public meeting at which the discipline
is imposed.
ii.By way of a formal resolution adopted by a majority-plus-one vote of the Council,
Remove the Subject Councilmember(s) found to have committed a severe or
subsequent violation(s) from his/her Council Committee assignments for a period of
time deemed appropriate by a majority-plus-one vote of the Council. The Removal
resolution shall include a description of the violation(s) and a copy of the Hearing
Examiner’s findings and conclusions. In the case where the Subject Councilmember(s)
did not timely request a hearing, then the resolution shall also include a copy of the
Investigator’s report.
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Chapter 5: Council Conduct Standards & Enforcement | Approved April 16, 2024
Following adoption of the Removal resolution, the Subject Councilmember(s) found to
have committed a violation(s) shall be provided fifteen (15) minutes to speak to the
hearing examiner’s findings, Investigator’s report, and/or Council’s disciplinary decision,
but only in the following circumstances: (1) the Council Review Meeting occurred in an
Executive Session of Council, or (2) the Council Review Meeting occurred in a separate
open public meeting prior to the open public meeting at which the discipline is imposed.
Nothing herein shall be construed as giving Council authority to remove a
Councilmember from their position as a Councilmember.
iii.By way of a formal resolution adopted by a majority-plus-one vote of the Council,
Remove the Subject Councilmember(s) found to have committed a severe or
subsequent violation(s) from her/his (a) Council Committee assignments, AND (b)
assignments to non-City boards, committees, or commissions to which the City Mayor
has authority to appoint members (with or without Council approval). Said removal shall
be for a period of time deemed appropriate by a majority-plus-one vote of the Council.
The Removal resolution shall include a description of the violation(s) and a copy of the
hearing examiner’s findings and conclusions. In the case where the Subject
Councilmember(s) did not timely request a hearing, then the resolution shall also include
a copy of the Investigator’s report.
Following adoption of the Removal resolution, the Subject Councilmember(s) found to
have committed a violation(s) shall be provided fifteen (15) minutes to speak to the
hearing examiner’s findings, Investigator’s report, and/or Council’s disciplinary decision,
but only in the following circumstances: (1) the Council Review Meeting occurred in an
Executive Session of Council, or (2) the Council Review Meeting occurred in a separate
open public meeting prior to the open public meeting at which the discipline is imposed.
Nothing herein shall be construed as giving Council authority to remove a
Councilmember from their position as a Councilmember.
Council does not have authority to overrule the hearing ex
aminer’s findings of fact or
conclusions whether Council Conduct Standards were violated. Council’s role is limited to
determining whether and how to discipline the Subject Councilmember.
NOTE: The application of one of the remedies described above shall not preclude the
application of additional remedies described above or otherwise available at law.
Furthermore, certain violations committed by a Councilmember(s) may be subject to
prosecution or other legal action pursuant to Washington State law.
If a Councilmember does not cease conduct that has been deemed in violation of the
Council Conduct Standards, then the Council may direct city administration to pursue legal
action to prevent ongoing violations, provided such an action is not prohibited by applicable
law.
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Chapter 5: Council Conduct Standards & Enforcement | Approved April 16, 2024
In the event a Councilmember intentionally violates provisions of the Council Conduct
Standards which cause harm or damages to the city, then the Council may by affirmative
vote seek to recover those damages against the Councilmember on behalf of the city,
provided such action is not prohibited by applicable law.
5.Appeal: If the Subject Councilmember had req
uested a hearing to contest the Investigator’s
findings, then the Subject Councilmember may appeal the Hearing Examiner’s decision and the
Council’s disciplinary decision to the Washington Superior Court for Spokane County (“Superior
Court”), but only after completion of the Council Review Meeting.
The Subject Councilmember must exhaust the available administrative remedies described herein
prior to seeking an appeal in the Superior Court. A failure to request a hearing shall result in dismissal
of an appeal to Superior Court.
Appeal shall be by the Subject Councilmember filing
a Petition for Review or other legally sufficient
pleading with the Superior Court and delivering a copy of the Petition for Review to the city manager
within ten (10) business days after the Council Review Meeting is completed. The manner in which
the notice of appeal must be delivered to the city manager is the same as that required for a request
for hearing before the city hearing examiner.
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Chapter 5: Council Conduct Standards & Enforcement | Approved April 16, 2024
A.COPIES
Councilmembers and the public are highly encouraged to access city documents electronically in
order to decrease the amount of paper, toner, ink, etc. used in generating paper documents, thereby
lowering city expenditures. Paper documents will always be made available upon request.
While Councilmembers are permitted the use of city copy machines, paper, toner, ink, etc., they are
limited to no more than a total of ten pages per week in advance of Council meetings.
B.OUT-OF-STATE TRAVEL POLICY
Out-of-state travel for city business involving more than one day requires Councilmembers to notify
the prior approval by a vote of a majority of the City Council during a regular or special City Council
meeting. All notifications requests for approval of out-of-state travel should be made sought no later
than one week prior to the beginning of the travel. Travel to Idaho or Oregon are exceptions to this
provision.
C.DRESS CODE POLICY
Councilmembers should dress in business attire when publicly representing the City as a
Councilmember, including at City Council meetings, during interviews, and when participating in any
meetings with external attendees whether at City Hall or another location.
Examples of business attire include skirts, dresses, slacks, khakis, trousers, blouses, collared
shirts, button-down shirts, sport coats, blazers, and sweaters. Jeans, t-shirts, shorts, athletic wear,
or sports clothing are not considered business attire and should not be worn.
The exception to business attire may be at community events such as Valleyfest, Spokane Valley
Farmers Market, etc. where casual clothing may be more appropriate.
D.VOLUNTEERS/LEGISLATIVE ASSISTANTS
Councilmembers are required to attend to their own duties and responsibilities and therefore, shall
not advertise for or retain volunteer legislative assistants to conduct these duties. This provision is
intended to prevent unauthorized access to City systems and facilities. If assistance is needed for
certain tasks, Councilmembers are encouraged to discuss their needs with the City Manager, who
may provide support depending on the staff’s current workload.
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Chapter 6: General Considerations | 2024 DRAFT
APPENDIX A
Quasi-Judicial Hearings
1.Purpose
Quasi-judicial public hearings involve the legal rights of specific parties, and the decisions made as
a result of such hearings must be based upon and supported by the “record” developed at the
hearing. Quasi-judicial hearings are subject to stricter procedural requirements than legislative
hearings. Most quasi-judicial hearings held by local government bodies involve land use matters,
including site specific rezones, preliminary plats, variances, and conditional uses. (MRSC Public
Hearings When and How to Hold Them by Bob Meinig, MRSC Legal Consultant August 1998)
2.Specific Statutory Provisions
a.Candidates for the City Council may express their opinions about pending or proposed
quasi-judicial actions while campaigning, pursuant to RCW 42.36.040, except that sitting
Councilmembers shall not express their opinions on any such matter which is or may come before
the Council.
b.Ex-parte communications should be avoided whenever possible. During the pendency of any
quasi-judicial proceeding, no Councilmember may engage in ex-parte communications with
proponents or opponents about a proposal involved in the pending proceeding unless the
Councilmember: (1) places on the record the substance of such verbal or written communications;
and (2) provides that a public announcement of the content of the communication and of the parties’
rights to rebut the substance of the communication shall be made at each hearing where action is
taken or considered on the subject. This does not prohibit correspondence between a citizen and
his or her elected official if the correspondence is made a part of the record, when it pertains to the
subject matter of a quasi-judicial proceeding. (RCW 42.36.060)
3.Actions/Procedures for a Quasi-Judicial Public Hearing
See Spokane Valley Municipal Code Appendix C for City Council Appeal Hearing Procedures.
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Appendix A: Quasi-Judicial Hearings | 2024 DRAFT
APPENDIX B
Resolution 07-019
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
SPOKANE COUNTY, WASHINGTON
RESOLUTION NO. 07-019
AMENDED GENERAL POLICY RESOLUTION OF CORE BELIEFS
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY AMENDING RESOLUTION 03-027, ESTABLISHING
A GENERAL POLICY RESOLUTION EMANATING FROM THE CORE BELIEFS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AND COMMUNITY AND SETTING FORTH DUTIES OF BOTH ELECTED AND APPOINTED OFFICIALS OF
THE CITY TO HELP GUIDE LEGISLATIVE AND EXECUTIVE DECISIONS TOWARD EFFECTIVE,
RESPONSIVE, AND OPEN GOVERNMENT
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Spokane Valley, as the elective legislative body, is charged
with promulgating Ordinances and Resolutions which become the law of the city; and
WHEREAS, such Ordinances and Resolutions must provide enforceable provisions subordinate to,
and in harmony with, all other applicable federal and state statutes and regulations; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to provide a clear set of general policy guidelines for the conduct
of city government;
as set forth below by adding new section 7. The
Section 1. Modifying Resolution 03-027
remainder of the resolution 03-027 is unchanged:
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Spokane Valley does hereby affirm and resolve
that the following core beliefs shall serve as guidelines for the conduct of affairs by all branches of
Spokane Valley City Government.
Section 1. We believe that Spokane Valley should be a visionary city encouraging its citizens and
their government to look to the future beyond the present generation and to bring
such ideas to public discussion and to enhance a sense of community identity.
Section 2. We believe that elected body decision-making is the only lawful and effective way to
conduct the public’s legislative business and that careful observance of a clear set
of Governance Coordination rules of procedure can best enhance public
participation and decision making.
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Appendix B: Resolution 07-019 Core Beliefs | 2024 DRAFT
Section 3.We believe in the City Council as policy leaders of the City. One or more City
Councilmembers are encouraged to take the lead, where practical, in sponsoring
Ordinances or Resolutions excepting quasi-judicial or other public hearings and the
statutory duties of the City Manager as set forth in RCW 35A.13.020.
Section 4. We believe in hearing the public view. We affirm that members of the public should
be encouraged to speak and be heard through reasonable rules of procedure when
the public business is being considered, thus giving elected officials the broadest
perspectives from which to make decisions.
Section 5. We believe that the City of Spokane Valley’s governance should be known as “user
friendly,” and that governance practices and general operations should consider
how citizens will be served in the most responsive, effective and courteous manner.
Section 6. We believe that the economic and commercial job base of the community should be
preserved and encouraged to grow as an alternative to increasing property taxes. We
believe it imperative to have an expanded and diverse economic base.
Section 7. We believe that Councilmembers set the tone for civic discussion and should set an
example by:
(a) Setting high standards of decorum and civility.
(b) Encouraging open and productive conversation amongst themselves and with the
community about legislative matters.
(c) Demonstrating respect for divergent points of view expressed by citizens, fellow
Councilmembers and the staff.
(d) Honoring each other and the public by debating issues within City Hall and the
Community without casting aspersions on members of Council, the staff, or the
public.
(e) Accepting the principle of majority rule and working to advance the success of
“corporate” decisions.
Section 8. We solicit the City Manager’s support in conducting the affairs of the city with due
regard for:
(a) Promoting mutual respect between the Citizens, City staff and the City Council by
creating the organizational teamwork necessary for effective, responsive and open
government.
(b) Providing the City Council and public reasonable advance notice when issues are
to be brought forward for discussion.
(c) Establishing and maintaining a formal city-wide customer service program with
emphasis on timely response, a user-friendly atmosphere, and an attitude of
facilitation and accommodation within the bounds of responsibility, integrity, and
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Appendix B: Resolution 07-019 Core Beliefs | 2024 DRAFT
financial capability of the city, including organizational and job description
documents while pursuing “best practices” in customer service.
(d) Seeking creative ways to contain or impede the rising cost of governmental
services, including examination of private sector alternatives in lieu of
governmentally provided services.
(e) Providing a database of future projects and dreams for the new City of Spokane
Valley so that good ideas from its citizens and leaders are not lost and the status of
projects can be readily determined.
th
Approved by the City Council this 11
day of December, 2007.
ATTEST: /s/ DIANA WILHITE______________________
Diana Wilhite, Mayor
/s/ CHRISTINE BAINBRIDGE___________
Christine Bainbridge, City Clerk
Approved as to form:
/S/ MICHAEL F. CONNELLY___________
Office of the City Attorney
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Appendix B: Resolution 07-019 Core Beliefs | 2024 DRAFT
APPENDIX C
Statement of Ethics
SPOKANE VALLEY CITY COUNCILMEMBERS’ STATEMENT OF ETHICS
By adoption of the Resolution which adopts this Governance Manual, the Spokane Valley City
Councilmembers hereby agree to be bound by the following rules of ethics:
1.DECLARATION OF PURPOSE:
Provide guidelines and set high ethicalstandards for Councilmembers to perform their
duties in an open, honest, and unbiased manner.
Establish procedures for prevention and/or elimination of possible conflicts of interest.
Improve and strengthen the public’s perception and trust in their local government.
2.DEFINITIONS:
(a)Compensation: Anything of economic value regardless of amount, however designated,
which is paid, loaned, advanced, granted, transferred, or gifted, or to be paid, loaned,
advanced, granted, transferred or gifted for or in consideration of personal services to any
person or that person’s immediate family as that term is defined in RCW 42.17A.005.
(b)Contract: Includes any contract or agreement, sale, lease, purchase, or any combination of
the foregoing. A contracting party is any person, partnership, association, cooperative,
corporation, whether for profit or otherwise, or other business entity which is a party to a
contract with a municipality.
(c)Confidential Information: Includes any information provided during executive session to any
Councilmember (whether written or oral), statements subject to the attorney-client privilege,
and information considered exempt from disclosure under RCW 42.23 et seq. and/or the
Washington Public Records Act (RCW 42.56 et seq.).
3.PROHIBITED CONDUCT:
(a)Acceptance of Gifts: No Councilmember, based upon their position with the City of
Spokane Valley, shall receive, accept, take, seek, or solicit, directly or indirectly, anything of
economic value regardless of the amount, as a gift, gratuity, or favor from any person or entity
outside the City organization. Exceptions to this prohibition are if an item less than $50.00
value is provided to a Councilmember while that person is participating in business related
to their position as a Councilmember. Campaign donations made and reported in
conformance with Washington law are exempt from this provision. \[RCW 42.23.070\]
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Appendix C: Statement of Ethics | 2024 DRAFT
(b)Interest in Contracts, Exceptions: Councilmembers must comply with all applicable
provisions of RCW 42.23.030, including but not limited to those provisions prohibiting
Councilmembers from being beneficially interested, directly or indirectly, in any contract
where the City of Spokane Valley is named as a party to the contract; and preventing
Councilmembers from accepting, directly or indirectly, any compensation, gratuity or reward
in connection with such contract. This prohibition shall not apply to the exceptions specified
in RCW 42.23.030 which are incorporated herein as if fully set forth.
(c)Special Privileges Prohibited: Councilmembers are prohibited from using their position as
a member of City Council to secure special privileges or exemptions for himself, herself, or
others.
(d)Conflict of Interest/Incompatible Service: No Councilmember shall engage in or accept
private employment or render services for any person, or engage in any business or
professional activity when (1) the Councilmember might reasonably expect doing so would
require or induce them by reason of their official position to disclose confidential information
acquired by reason of their official position, or (2) doing so is otherwise incompatible with the
faithful discharge of his/her official duties as a Councilmember.
(e)Confidential Information: Councilmembers are prohibited from disclosing confidential
information acquired by reason of such official position, nor shall such information be used
for the Councilmember’s personal gain or benefit.
(f)Inappropriate Councilmember Intervention: Councilmembers shall not intervene or
interfere with the administration or operation of the City’s executive branch of government in
violation of Chapter 3 of the Governance Manual, paragraphs A.2 - .4 and/or B.3.
PERSONAL OR PRIVATE INTERESTS, PUBLIC DISCLOSURE: Any Councilmember who has a
financial or other private or personal interest in any ordinance, resolution, contract, proceeding, or
other action pending before the City Council or any of its committees, shall promptly disclose such
interest at the first public meeting when such matter is being considered by the City Council, and a
summary of the nature of such interest shall be incorporated into the official minutes of the City
Council proceedings. Any Councilmember who feels disqualified by reason of such interest in any
matter before the City Council, shall make a public statement and disclose the reasons why that
Councilmember feels disqualified, and state that they are recusing themselves from the issue, and
with permission of the Presiding Officer, will leave the meeting place until such time as the issue at
hand has been disposed of in the regular course of business.
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Appendix C: Statement of Ethics | 2024 DRAFT
APPENDIX D
Frequently Used Acronyms
AACE American Association of Code Enforcement GAAP Generally Accepted Accounting Principles
ADA Americans with Disabilities Act GASB Governmental Accounting Standards Board
ADT Average Daily Traffic GIS Geographic Information System
ATF Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms GMA Growth Management Act
AWC Association of Washington Cities GPM Gallons Per Minute
BOCC Board of County Commissioners HOV High-Occupancy Vehicle
CAFR Comprehensive Annual Financial Report HR Human Resources
CDBG Community Development Block Grant HUD Department of Housing & Urban Development
CIP Capital Improvement Plan ICMA International City/County Management Assoc.
CM City Manager L&I Department of Labor and Industries
CMAQ Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Program LID Local Improvement District
CTR Commute Trip Reduction (legislation)MGD Million Gallons per Day
CUP Conditional Use Permit MOA Memorandum of Agreement
DEIS Draft Environmental Impact Statement MOU Memorandum of Understanding
DEM Department of Emergency Management MPO Metropolitan Planning Organization
DNR Department of Natural Resources MRSC Municipal Research Services Center
DNS Declaration of Non-Significance NEPA National Environment Policy Act
DOC Department of Commerce NIMBY Not In My Backyard
DOE Department of Ecology; Department of Energy NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
DOT Department of Transportation (also WSDOT)PE Preliminary Engineering; Professional Engineer
E911 Enhanced 911 PERC Public Employment Relations Commission
EA Environment Assessment PMS Pavement Management System
EDC Economic Development Council PPE Personal Protective Equipment
EEO/AA Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action PPM Parts Per Million; Policy & Procedure Manual
EEOC Equal Employment Opportunity Commission PUD Public Utility District
EIS Environmental Impact Statement PW Public Works
EOE Equal Opportunity Employer QA Quality Assurance
EPA Environmental Protection Agency RCW Revised Code of Washington
ERU Equivalent Residential Unit* REET Real Estate Excise Tax
ESU Equivalent Service Unit**RONR Roberts Rules of Order Newly Revised
F&WS Federal Fish & Wildlife Service ROW Right of Way
FAA Federal Aviation Administration SAO State Auditor’s Office
FCC Federal Communications Commission SBA Small Business Administration
FEIS Final Environmental Impact Statement SEPA State Environmental Policy Act
FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency SMA Shorelines Management Act
FICA Federal Insurance Contribution Act SWAC Solid Waste Advisory Committee
FIRM Flood Insurance Rate Maps TIB Transportation Improvement Board
FLSA Fair Labor Standards Act TMDL Total Maximum Daily Load
FMSIB Freight Mobility Strategic Investment Boart UBC Uniform Building Code
FY Fiscal Year UFC Uniform Fire Code
UGA Urban Growth Area WHO World Health Organization
WAC Washington Administrative Code WSDOT Washington State Department of Transportation
WACO Washington Association of County Officials WSP Washington State Patrol
Washington Utilities & Transportation Commission
WCIA Washington Cities Insurance Authority WUTC
WCMA Washington City/County Management Assoc.WWTP Wastewater Treatment Plant
*for measuring water-sewer capacity and demand **for measuring stormwater utility fees
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Appendix D: Frequently Used Acronyms | 2024 DRAFT
APPENDIX E
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
10210 E Sprague Avenue
Spokane Valley WA 99206
(509) 720-5000
APPLICATION FOR INTERIM COUNCIL POSITION
Thank you for your interest in serving the Spokane Valley community as an Interim Council Member.
An Interim Council Member is the term used for someone to serve in a vacated council position until
that vacated position can be filled as a result of the next general municipal election (held odd years)
\[RCW 42.12.070\]
To be considered, applicants must use this form. Applications shall be completed, signed, and
received at the City Clerk’s office, 10210 E. Sprague Avenue, Spokane Valley WA no later than
________ p.m. on _____________________ (late arriving applications will not be considered).
Applications may be hand-delivered or mailed. Faxed or e-mailed applications will not be accepted
because the original application with the original signature must be received by the City.
During the interview process, current Councilmembers will ask applicants several questions on a
variety of topical subjects, which could include but are not limited to: budget, pavement
preservation, transportation, infrastructure, public safety, economic development, planning and
development, open space, familiarity with Council meetings, Open Public Meetings Act, Public
Records Act, and Council/Manager form of government.
Name (please print): _____________________________________________________________________
Complete Residence Address: _____________________________________________________________
Complete Mailing Address (if different from above) Length of Time
at current Address
U.S. Citizen? \[ \]yes \[ \]no WA State Registered Voter? \[ \]yes \[ \]no
If you have lived at your current address less than one year, please list your previous addresses and
state how long you lived at those residences:
Complete Previous Address Length of Time
at this Address
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Appendix E: Application for Council Member | 2024 DRAFT
Which is your preferred way for us to contact you: \[Note: If you have an unlisted phone number, or
do not wish your e-mail address made public, do not include that information. Once this document
is submitted to the City, it becomes subject to public disclosure.\]
\[ \] Home Phone __________________ \[ \] work phone ______________________
\[ \] Cell Phone ______________________ \[ \] other message phone _______________
\[ \] e-mail address: (please print plainly): _____________________________________________________
\[ \] regular mail to residence or mailing address shown above
EMPLOYMENT: Start with most recent
1.\[ \] present \[ \] previous
Name of Employer: Address:
Phone: Position held:
Dates of Employment:
2.\[ \] present \[ \] previous
Name of Employer: Address:
Phone: Position held:
Dates of Employment:
3.\[ \] present \[ \] previous
Name of Employer: Address:
Phone: Position held:
Dates of Employment:
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Appendix E: Application for Council Member | 2024 DRAFT
EDUCATION:
Name of High School _____________________________ Address: _______________________________
Diploma or GED: \[ \] yes \[ \] no
Trade School/College/University:
Name of School _____________________________ Address: ___________________________________
Diploma: \[ \] yes \[ \] no Degree or Certification Earned: ___________________________
Trade School/College/University:
Name of School _____________________________ Address: ___________________________________
Diploma: \[ \] yes \[ \] no Degree or Certification Earned: ___________________________
Other Certifications/Licenses:
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE: name of social, fraternal, organizations, etc.
1.\[ \] current \[ \] previous_________________________________________________________________
2.\[ \] current \[ \] previous_________________________________________________________________
3.\[ \] current \[ \] previous_________________________________________________________________
4.\[ \] current \[ \] previous_________________________________________________________________
5.\[ \] current \[ \] previous_________________________________________________________________
LOCAL, STATE OR NATIONAL PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS, INCLUDING GOVERNMENT
BOARDS, COMMITTEES, OR COMMISSIONS
1.\[ \] current \[ \] previous_________________________________________________________________
2.\[ \] current \[ \] previous_________________________________________________________________
3.\[ \] current \[ \] previous_________________________________________________________________
4.\[ \] current \[ \] previous_________________________________________________________________
5.\[ \] current \[ \] previous_________________________________________________________________
1.Are you a registered voter in the City of Spokane Valley? Yes \[ \]No \[ \]
2.Have you continuously resided within the city limits of the City of Spokane Valley for a year or
more? (State law requires a councilmember to be a resident of Spokane Valley for at least a year prior
to appointment, and to be a registered voter at the time of application.) Yes \[ \] No \[ \]
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Appendix E: Application for Council Member | 2024 DRAFT
3. Have you ever been convicted of anything other than a minor traffic infraction? Yes \[ \]No \[ \]
4. If you answered “YES” to #3 above, please explain:
5. Do you or your spouse or any immediate family member (spouse, children, siblings, parents) have
a financial interest in, or are you an employee or officer of any business or agency which does
business with the City of Spokane Valley? Yes \[ \] No \[ \] If yes, please explain:
6. Is any member of your immediate family currently employed, either full time or part time, by the
City of Spokane Valley, or currently perform any volunteer work for the City of Spokane Valley?
Yes \[ \] No \[ \]
If yes, please explain:
7. Would your appointment create a conflict of interest or an appearance of a conflict of interest?
Yes \[ \] No \[ \]
If yes, please explain:
8. Why are you interested in serving in this position?
9. What do you feel is the primary responsibility of a Councilperson?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Appendix E: Application for Council Member | 2024 DRAFT
10. Have you ever attended a live meeting of the Spokane Valley City Council? Yes \[ \] No \[ \]
If yes, give an estimate of how many meetings you have attended in the past twelve months:
___________________
11. Appointment to the City Council will require your attendance at regularly scheduled Council
meetings, which generally occur on Tuesday evenings, as well as other special meetings that may be
scheduled from time to time. This meeting commitment includes preparation time, such as reading
the Council packet materials. Councilmembers also participate on various boards and committees
(such as Spokane Transit Authority, Visit Spokane, Health Board, etc.) as assigned by the Mayor and
confirmed by Council. Many of these groups meet during regular work hours.
Can you commit the appropriate time and energy to participate as an interim member of the Spokane
Valley City Council? Yes \[ \] No \[ \]
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Appendix E: Application for Council Member | 2024 DRAFT
12. References: Please list name, address and phone number:
1. _____________________________________________________________________________
2. _____________________________________________________________________________
3. _____________________________________________________________________________
Once submitted, applications and related materials become a public record subject to public
disclosure, and could be included in Council agenda packets. Selection of the applicant must be
approved by a majority vote of the remaining Councilmembers. No City officer shall hold any other
office or employment within the Spokane Valley City government.
By signing this application, I certify under penalty of perjury, that such appointment would not
represent a conflict of interest or an appearance of a conflict of interest; that I recognize this
application is subject to public disclosure; and that the information entered hereon by me is true and
correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.
________________________________________________________
Signature Date Signed
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Appendix E: Application for Council Member | 2024 DRAFT
APPENDIX F
CITY COUNCIL
10210E Sprague Avenue | Spokane Valley WA 99206
Phone: (509) 720-5000 | Fax: (509) 720-5075 | www.spokanevalley.org
Request to transfer travel/mileage/registration budgets
between Councilmembers
Requests must be approved by the Councilbefore funds are transferred.
Date approved:
Transfer fromTransfer to
Councilmember’s nameCouncilmember’s name
Budget CategoryAmountBudget CategoryAmount
SignatureDateSignatureDate
I, the Mayor of the City of Spokane Valley, certify that this request was approved by the City of
Spokane Valley Council of the date identified above.
Signature Date
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Appendix F: Transfer Travel Allocation | 2024 DRAFT
APPENDIX G
Definitions
Action
All transactions of a governing body’s business, including receipt of public testimony, deliberations,
discussions, considerations, reviews, and evaluations, as well as “final” action. \[RCW 42.30.010,
42.30.020(3)\].
Codified
The process of forming a legal code (i.e., a municipal code or book of laws) by collecting and
including the laws of a jurisdiction or municipality.
Consensus
A collective judgment or belief; solidarity of opinion: “The consensus of the group was that they
should meet twice a month. General agreement or harmony. \[Random House Webster’s College
Dictionary, April 2001\] \[Wikipedia: explains it as a group decision making process, or Does anyone
object?\] It is not unanimity, but more a process for deciding what is best overall. Members of the
group reach a decision to which they consent because they know it is the best one overall. It differs
from voting which is a procedure for tallying preferences. It does not require each member of the
group to justify their feelings. \[Taken from: Consensus Is Not Unanimity: Making Decisions
Cooperatively, by Randy Schutt.”\] Similar to a type of verbal “show of hands” on who feels
particularly strong on this?” Sometimes thought of as preliminary approval without taking final
“action.” A show of hands is not an action that has any legal effect. \[“Voting and Taking Action in
Closed Sessions” by Frayda Bulestein.\]
Ex-parte
From a one-sided or partisan point of view; on the application of one party alone. An ex-parte judicial
proceeding is conducted for the benefit of only one party. Ex-parte may also describe contact with a
person represented by an attorney, outside the presence of the attorney.
Immediate Family
Includes a spouse or domestic partner, dependent children, and other dependent relatives, if living
in the household. For the purposes of the definition of "intermediary" in this section, "immediate
family" means an individual's spouse or domestic partner, child, stepchild, grandchild, parent,
stepparent, grandparent, brother, half brother, sister, or half-sister of the individual and the spouse
or the domestic partner of any such person and a child, stepchild, grandchild, parent, stepparent,
grandparent, brother, half-brother, sister, or half-sister of the individual's spouse or domestic
partner and the spouse or the domestic partner of any such person (RCW 42.17A.005(24)).
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Appendix G: Definitions | 2024 DRAFT
Motion
An enacted motion is a form of action taken by the Council to direct that a specific action be taken
on behalf of the municipality. Once approved and entered into the record, is the equivalent of a
resolution in those instances where a resolution is not required by law, and where such motion is not
in conflict with existing state or federal statutes, City ordinances or resolutions.
Ordinance
An enacted ordinance is a law passed \[enacted\] by a municipal organization legislatively prescribing
specific rules of organization or conduct relating to the corporate affairs of the municipality and
those citizens and businesses therein. Council action shall be taken by ordinance when required by
law, or where prescribed conduct may be enforced by penalty. Special ordinances such as adopting
the budget, vacating a street, amending the Comprehensive Plan and/or Map, and placing a matter
on an election ballot, including general obligation bonds, are not codified into the City’s municipal
code.
Resolution
An enacted resolution is an administrative act which is a formal statement of policy concerning
matters of special or temporary character. Council action shall be taken by resolution when required
by law and in those instances where an expression of policy more formal than a motion is desired.
Regular Meeting
Any Council meeting that meets on a Tuesday at 6:00 p.m. shall be deemed a “regular meeting.”
Social Media
A term used to define the various activities that integrate technology, social interaction and content
creation. Through social media, individuals or collaborations of individuals create on-line web
content, organize content, edit or comment on content, combine content, and share content.
Includes many technologies and forms including syndicated web feeds, weblogs (blogs), wiki,
photo-sharing, video-sharing, podcasts, and social networking. (From MRSC, and Social Media and
Web 2.0 in Government, WebContent.gov)
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Appendix G: Definitions | 2024 DRAFT
APPENDIX H
Councilmember Social Media Policy
OFFICIAL COUNCILMEMBER-SPECIFIC SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS
Councilmembers may choose to create and maintain a Councilmember-specific social media
account, such as on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and/or Instagram, to communicate with
constituents as part of their Councilmember role. When doing so, Councilmembers agree to the
following guidelines:
Requirements:
1.Before setting up a social media account on any given platform, you must receive written
verification from the city’s IT manager that the social media platform is sufficiently
compatible with the city’s social media archiving platform to assure that all content,
including posts and comments, is archived for public records retention. Such verification
may be by email from the IT manager to you. If the IT manager does not provide the above
verification, then you are not able to establish a Councilmember-specific account on that
particular social media platform.
2.Create the account using your @SpokaneValleyWA.gov email alias. On Facebook, per
Facebook policy, create a ‘page’ from your personal ‘profile’.
3.When creating Councilmember accounts, include:
Title including your official role of “Councilmember” in the name (Ex. Councilmember
first last name)
Category of “Government Official”
Identifiable, official Councilmember photo (can be provided by city staff)
Disclaimer, “All content is mine and does not represent the views of the Spokane Valley
City Council or City of Spokane Valley.”
4.Familiarize yourself with and adhere to the City of Spokane Valley Social Media Policy,
outlined in Administrative Policy and Procedure No. 300.020 Communications Policy.
5.Contact the city’s IT manager regarding your new account(s) and provide the account
handles. The IT manager or designee will associate your account with the city’s social media
archiving platform, currently Page Freezer, to ensure that all content, including posts and
comments, is archived for public records retention. Content may be public record if it relates
to the conduct of government or the performance of your office. Costs for the social media
archiving platform shall be deducted from each Councilmembers’ individual annual
budgets.
6.Be aware that the Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA) applies to social media/electronic
platform interactions between elected officials just as it does to in-person or phone
interactions. Please do not have a discussion of agency business publicly or privately on
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Appendix H: Social Media Policy | 2024 DRAFT
social media, because if it constitutes a quorum, you may be in violation of the OPMA. An
OPMA prohibited meeting may be deemed to have occurred electronically when a quorum is
ultimately involved and a discussion of city business occurs.
7.Be aware that all posts, comments and content are public records when they are set forth on
an official city account and may constitute speech protected by the constitutions of
Washington and the United States of America. Councilmembers shall Do not delete their
posts, comments or content. Posts, comments or content of third parties on
Councilmember’s official social media accounts shall not be deleted unless the content at
issue they violates the city’s Social Media Policy as outlined in Administrative Policy and
Procedure No. 300.020 Communications Policy.
8.The Council desires to ensure Council remains in compliance with the OPMA. The Council
therefore agrees that this policy prevents any individual Councilmember from (a) following
another Councilmember’s social media accounts, and (b) engaging (such as liking, sharing,
and commenting) on any fellow Councilmember’s social media pages.
9.A Councilmember shall not post content on any social media platform regarding the City
(including but not limited to city business, projects or programs) that they know or should
know is factually false at the time said content was posted. A Councilmember shall not cause
others to post content on social media platforms that the Councilmember knows or should
know is factually false.
If a Councilmember posts factual information on a social media platform that they believed
was accurate at the time of posting but later becomes aware that the information is false,
then they shall correct the false statements immediately after they become or should have
become, aware that the information is false. Such correction shall be completed by editing
the original post clearly identifying the update or posting a new message on the same social
media platform t
information within the post, and (3) if known, the accurate factual information.
Whether and/or when a Councilmember knew or should have known information is false is
determined using the “reasonable person” standard. That is, a Councilmember “should have
known” the information to be false when a reasonable person, under the same or similar
circumstances, would have understood that the information is false.
10.Once a Councilmember term ends, close the page. All records will be archived through the
city’s archiving platform.
Recommendations:
11.For best practices, post regularly (suggested minimal post of once per week). Accounts that
are not actively used should be closed or hidden.
12.Keep your followers informed of city events, projects and opportunities to get involved and
inform city decision-making by sharing City of Spokane Valley social media messages.
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Appendix H: Social Media Policy | 2024 DRAFT
PERSONAL OR CAMPAIGN SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS OF INDIVIDUAL
COUNCILMEMBERS
Councilmembers who maintain a personal or campaign social media account shall:
1.Use a personal or campaign email alias. Do not use an @SpokaneValleyWA.gov alias to set
up and manage any personal or campaign account. State law prohibits the use of official city
accounts for campaign purposes so all campaign-related social media communications
must be made on personal or campaign accounts. Campaign purposes include supporting
or opposing any candidate for public office and supporting or opposing any ballot
proposition.
2.Post a disclaimer on your personal account that identifies the account purpose and that the
opinions expressed are your own.
3.Not write posts on personal or campaign accounts that relate to the conduct of city
government or the performance of your office. Merely posting Council agendas or
information regarding city events or providing general information regarding the City’s
activities is not conducting city business and will not convert your personal post or the posts
of others into public records. Personal communications that are not related to the conduct
of government or the performance of your office are not public records. However, if you use
your personal account to transact city business, any posts or comments generated in doing
so may be public records.
4.Not link private or campaign accounts to a city account, with the exception of Facebook
requirements for setting up a Facebook page.
5.Refrain from discussing personal accounts in public meetings or documents.
6.Not use city devices to maintain or access private accounts.
Resources
City of Spokane Valley Social Media Policy
Association of Washington Cities social media guidelines for elected officials
MRSC social media policies
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Appendix H: Social Media Policy | 2024 DRAFT
INDEX
Public Censure
A
Acronyms Purpose
Attendance Report
Required Content of Complaint
Absences, Excused
Absences, UnexcusedReprimand
At Agenda CommitteeReview/Investigation
City Staff at Council Meetings Council Contacts
In Executive SessionAdministrative Complaints to Councilmembers
Leave of Absence Administrative Interference by Councilmembers
On Committees, Commissioners, BoardsCitizen Concerns, Complaints & Suggestions
Remote Meeting AttendanceCity Clerk: Minutes
City Staff Attendance at Meetings
Donations
B
Ballot Measures Informal Communications Encouraged
Implementation of RCW 42.17A.555Mayor/Council Correspondence
Providing Informative Materials to CouncilRole of the City Manager
Public CommentSocial Media
State Law RCW 45.17A.555 Council Meetings
Bias For or Against a Proposed Action Adjournment Due to Emergency or Disruption
Branches of city government Approaching the Dais
Administrative Branch –City Manager/City StaffAttendance
Legislative Branch –City CouncilCancellation of Meetings
Community Recognition Program
C Council Materials/Packets
Committees, Boards, Commissions Council Rules of Order
Agenda CommitteeDissents and Protests
Appointment, Removal, and AttendanceEmergency Meetings
Council Relations with Boards, CommissionsExecutive Sessions
Finance CommitteeHearings
Governance Manual CommitteeInternet Use
Lodging Tax Advisory CommitteeMotions and Discussion
Planning CommissionOpen to the Public
Public Safety CommitteeOrdinances
Copies Out of Order (sequence) Requests
Core Beliefs Parliamentary Procedure at a Glance
Conflict of Interest –Contracts Permission Required to Address the Council
Council Conduct Standard and Enforcement Photographs, Videos, etc., Permission Required
AppealPlacing Items on a Future Agenda
ComplaintPresiding Officer
Council Review MeetingProclamations
Council Conduct StandardsPublic Comments
Enforcement ProcedureQuorum
Frivolous Complaints ProhibitedReconsideration
HearingRecusal from Discussion and Consideration
Initial Review for SufficiencyRegular Meetings: Formal Format
InvestigationRegular Meetings: Study Session Format
Majority-plus-one voteRemote Participation
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Index | Approved April 16, 2024
Resolutions Purpose of City Government
Respect and Decorum
Seating Arrangement Q
Special Meetings Quasi-Judicial Hearings
Taxes: Increasing or Imposing New Taxes
Three-Touch Principle S
Time and Location Social Media Policy
VotingDefinition
Council Travel Official Councilmember-Specific Social Media
Allowable Travel ExpensesPersonal or Campaign Social Media Accounts
Cancellation
Council Travel Allocation V
Non-Reimbursement/Prohibition of Travel Expenses
Volunteer/Legislative Assistants
Out-of-State Travel
Payment of Expenses
Transfer travel/mileage Councilmember budgets
Travel Approval and Expense
Use of personal vehicle
D
Dress Code Policy
E
Election of Officers
Ethics
F
Filling Council Vacancies
General Process
Interview Questions
Nomination/Voting Process to Select Applicant
Nomination Options for Conducting Interviews
Seating of New Councilmember
I
Interim Council Position Application
L
Legislative Branch, City Council
Legislative Process and Procedures
O
Obligations, of city
Outside Requests for Agenda Items
Out-of-State Travel
P
Presentations from Outside Entities/Individuals
Priorities, of city
Private Committees, Commissions and Boards
Prohibited Acts
Public Meetings not Called by the City
City of Spokane Valley | Governance Manual | Index | Approved April 16, 2024
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
SPOKANE COUNTY, WASHINGTON
RESOLUTION NO. 24-006
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY, SPOKANE COUNTY,
WASHINGTON, REPEALING AND REPLACING THE CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
GOVERNANCE MANUAL.
WHEREAS,written rules of procedure regarding how the City Council conducts its policy-
making business for the City best ensure an atmosphere conducive to efficiency, uniformity and
consistency; and
WHEREAS, therules andproceduresadopted by the Council for conducting the policy-
making business of the City need to be amended periodically to reflect changes in the law and
practice of the Council.
NOW THEREFORE, be it resolved by the City Council of the City of Spokane Valley,
Spokane County, Washington, as follows:
Section 1. Council last amended the City of Spokane Valley Governance Manual via Resolution
23-014 (hereinafter “Governance Manual”) on December 19, 2023.
Section 2. The Council hereby repeals the aforementioned Governance Manual in its entirety, and
replaces it with “City of Spokane Valley Governance Manual”, which contains Appendices to that
Manual, all of which are attached hereto and incorporated herein.
Section 3. Effective Date. This Resolution shall be in full force and effective upon adoption.
th
Adopted this 16 day of April, 2024.
ATTEST:
Marci Patterson, City Clerk Pam Haley, Mayor
Approved as to Form:
Office of the City Attorney
Resolution 24-006 Governance Manual
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
Request for Council Action
Meeting Date: April 16, 2024 Department Director Approval:
Check all that apply: consent old business new business public hearing
informationadmin. reportpending legislationexecutive session
AGENDA ITEM TITLE: Clean Building Requirements and Potential Grant Opportunity
GOVERNING LEGISLATION: N/A
PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION TAKEN: N/A
BACKGROUND:
Governor Inslee signed the Clean Building Law (H.B. 1257) in 2019 and Senate Bill 5722 in 2022.
The Department of Commerce (Commerce) developed energy performance standards for non-
residential buildings. Tier 2 buildings have a gross area between 20,000 and 50,000 square feet
(sq ft). Tier 1 buildings have a gross area that exceeds 50,000 sq ft.
These requirements apply to three city-owned buildings: CenterPlace (56,055 sq ft), City Hall
(65,299 sq ft) and the Police Precint (22,010 sq ft). Compliance dates for the city’s Tier 1 and Tier
2 buildings are June 1, 2028, and June 1, 2027, respectively.
These standards implement the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning
Engineers (ASHRAE) Standard 100-2018. WAC 194-50-001. The law aims to reduce carbon
pollution caused by non-residential buildings by establishing energy use intensity targets (EUIt)
specific to Washington. The law has the added effect of requiring buildings to efficiently use
energy saving measures.
There are several preliminary steps required for compliance. First, the City must conduct a
benchmark for Tier 1 buildings which is the process of measuring and tracking energy use. This
process is intended to document building characteristics and energy consumption so it can be
compared to similar buildings. This must be done using at least 12 consecutive months of data.
The benchmark was completed for City Hall and CenterPlace and indicates that City Hall meets
the required target, however, CenterPlace does not. An energy audit will be required for
CenterPlace to determine the most cost effective measures to achieve the required target. The
audit is estimated to cost $40,000.
For Tier 1 and Tier 2 buildings, the City also has to establish and implement an operation and
maintenance (O&M) program. The purpose of this program is to preserve the life of energy
systems. The O&M program must be implemented at least 12 months prior to the compliance
date. Concurrently, the City must establish an energy management plan which identifies energy
efficiency measures that will enable the building to meet its target energy use. The energy
management plan establishes energy efficiency measures to reach and maintain compliance,
develops a replacement schedule of key assets, establishes training plans. The estimated cost of
developing the O&M program and energy management plan is estimated to cost $10,000 to
$15,000 per building.
Staff is exploring two potential funding opportunities that can help offset the cost of the audit and
other required plan: Energy Efficiency Revolving and Conservation Formula (EERCF) Program
and the State Department of Commerce (Commerce) Clean Building Audit Incentive Program.
Page 1 of 2
Applications for the EERCF program are due on April 30, 2024. Commerce is accepting
applications until April 20, 2025 contingent on funding availability. Staff estimates both
applications can be prepared in one week.
OPTIONS: Discussion
RECOMMENDED ACTION OR MOTION: Council consensus to return on April 23, 2024 for a
motion consideration authorizing the city manager to submit the grant applications.
BUDGET/FINANCIAL IMPACTS: The 2024 budget does not include funding to comply with the
Clean Building requirements. The initial estimate to complete an audit for CenterPlace and
developing the O&M program and energy management plan is estimated to cost $85,000. The
ongoing costs to implement the Clean Building requirements will be determined when the O&M
program, energy management plan and audit are completed.
STAFF CONTACT: Gloria Mantz, City Services Administrator
ATTACHMENTS:
Presentation
Page 2 of 2
Agenda
Background
Clean Building Requirements
Clean Building Requirements
Clean Building Requirements
Early Adopter Incentive Program
Budget Impacts
Potential Grant Opportunity
Potential Grant Opportunity
RegularMeeting Minutes
Spokane Valley Planning Commission
Spokane Valley City Hall
March 28, 2024
I. Chairman Bob McKinley called the regular meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. The meeting was held in
person and via ZOOM meetings.
II. The Commissioners and staff stood for the Pledge Of Allegiance.
III. Administrative Marianne Lemons took attendance, and the following members and staff were
present:
Susan Delucchi Tony Beattie, Senior Deputy City Attorney
Bob McKinley Chaz Bates, Planning Manager
John Robertson Lori Barlow, Senior Planner
Vadim Smelik, absent Levi Basinger, Associate Planner
Justin Weathermon Justan Kinsel, IT Specialist
Dan Wilson Marianne Lemons, Administrative Assistant
There was consensus from the Commission to excuse Commissioner Smelik.
Commissioner Robertson arrived at 6:03 p.m.
IV. AGENDA: Commission Wilson moved,and it was seconded to approve the meeting agenda for
March 28, 2024, as submitted. There was no discussion. The vote on the motion was five in favor,
zero against, and the motion passed.
V. MINUTES:Commissioner Delucchi moved, and it was seconded, to approve the March 14, 2024,
minutes as presented. There was no discussion. The vote on the motion was five in favor, zero
against, and the motion passed.
VI. COMMISSION REPORTS: There were no Commissioner reports.
VII. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT: Planning Manager Chaz Bates reported that MichaelKelly has
been appointed to the vacant position on the Planning Commission. He also stated that a
representative from Spokane Transit Authority will be providing a presentation on their ten-year
comprehensive plan at the first meeting in April.
VIII. PUBLIC COMMENT: There was no public comment offered.
03-28-2024 Planning Commission Minutes Page 2 of 3
IX. COMMISSION BUSINESS:
a. Findings of Fact: 2024 Annual Comprehensive Plan Amendments
Planner Levi Basinger provided a brief overview of the Findings of Fact for the 2024 Annual
Comprehensive Plan Amendments (CPA-2024-0001 & CPA-2024-0002), explaining how they
formalize the Commission’s recommendations made after receiving public comment during the
public hearing and Planning Commission deliberations.
Commissioner Delucchi moved, and it was seconded to approve the Findings of Fact for STV-2024-
0001 as presented. There was no discussion. The vote on the motion was five in favor, zero against,
and the motion passed.
b. Public Hearing: STV-2024-0001 –Girard and Lily Street Vacations
The Public Hearing was opened at 6:11 p.m.
Senior Planner Lori Barlow gave a staff presentation. She explained that a street vacation is the
complete or partial abandonment or termination of the public right to use a street, highway, or public
service easement. She stated that STV-2024-0001 is a privately initiated street vacation request to
vacate the south 60’ X 80’ of Girard Road and the south 60’ X 95’ of Lily Road lying north of I-90
and south of Boone Avenue.
Ms. Barlow stated that the large public hearing notice signs were posted on each end of the area to
be vacated, posted in City Hall and on the City website. A written notice was mailed to the property
owners abutting the vacated area and the notice was published in the Valley Herald and the
thth
Exchange newspapers on March 18& March 25, 2024. The City did not receive any public
comment from that notice.
Ms. Barlow said that James Boone, LLC has requested the street vacation of Lily and Girard
to expand the operation area for the existing landscape materials business. The adjacent
property owner Avodah, LLC has signed the application, authorizing James Boone, LLC to
represent their interests. James Boone, LLC and Avodah, LLC own the adjacent property to
the ROW requested to be vacated. Both properties are paved but do not have curbs, gutters,
or sidewalks.
Ms. Barlow stated that staff has reached out to utilities and service providers regarding the
proposal. Avistacommented that they have a gas line in the Girard right of way (ROW) and
required a 10’ wide utility easement centered on all services. Spokane County Water District
#3 commented that they have a water mainline in Girard ROW and requested a 20’ wide utility
easement centered over existing utilities. Spokane County Environmental Services
commented that they have sewer lines in Girard and Lily ROW’s and requested a 20’ easement
centered over existing utilities. These requests are included as conditions of approval in the
staff report. Lumen commented that they have a pedestal located near the Girard property line
and Comcast commented that they have aerial cable facilities outside the STV area; however,
they did not request easement access.
03-28-2024 Planning Commission Minutes Page 3 of 3
Ms. Barlow explained that the Fire Department commented that they would like to maintain
access to residences if retained or adequate access provided to the commercial site, an on-site
turn-around to be maintained if thru access is eliminated, any gates installed are to be reviewed
and approved by the fire department, and Knox Products are required for the gates. These are
also added as conditions of approval.
Ms. Barlow said that if the street vacation is granted, half of the vacated ROW will be
distributed to each adjacent lot, the property owners must pay for the property received, and
the requested utility easements must be established by a Record of Survey.
The applicant, James Boone stated that he did not have anything to add to the report given by
Ms. Barlow.
Commissioner Robertson asked if gates will be maintained on the north end of the property.
Mr. Boone answered that the gate will be maintained for Fire Department access but will be
closed to the public.
There was no public comment offered so the public hearing was closed at 6:30 p.m.
Commissioner Delucchi moved, and it was seconded to recommend approval of STV-2024-
0001 with staff conditions to the City Council. There was no discussion. The vote on the
motion was five in favor, zero against, and the motion passed.
X. GOOD OF THE ORDER: Chairman McKinley stated that he will not be able to attend the
meeting on April 11, 2024.
XI. ADJOURNMENT: Commissioner Wilson moved, and it was seconded, to adjourn the meeting at
6:34 p.m. The vote on the motion was five in favor, zero against, and the motion passed.
_______________________________ __________________________________
Bob McKinley, Chairman Date Signed
____________________________________
Marianne Lemons, Secretary
E CONOMIC D EVELOPMENT D EPARTMENT
P LANNING D IVISION
S TAFF R EPORT TO THE P LANNING C OMMISSION
CPA-2024-0001
S TAFF R EPORT D ATE:March 7, 2024
H EARING D ATE AND L OCATION:March 14, 2024, beginning at 6:00 p.m., at Spokane Valley City Hall
and remotely via Zoom.
Project Number: CPA-2024-0001
Application Description:A request to change the land use designation and zoning for approximately
49.2 acres of Multi-Family Residential to 44 acres Mixed Use and 5.2 acres
Single-Family Residential.
Location:4418 E 8th Avenue; ParcelNumbers 35233.9191, 35233.9192, 35233.9176,
35233.0513, 35233.0709, 35233.0710, 35233.0604, 35233.0605,
35233.0606, 35233.0607, 35233.0608, 35233.0609, and 35233.0505;
Section 23, Township 25 North, Range 43 East, Willamette Meridian,
Spokane County, Washington
Applicant:City of Spokane Valley
Property Owner:Spokane Conservation District
Date of Application: November13, 2023
Staff Contact:Levi Basinger,Associate Planner,(509)720-5332,
lbasinger@spokanevalleywa.gov
A PPROVAL C RITERIA: Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan, Title 17 Spokane Valley Municipal Code
(SVMC) General Provisions, Title 19 SVMC Zoning Regulations, and Title 21 SVMC Environmental
Controls.
A TTACHMENTS:
Exhibit 1:ExistingComprehensive PlanMapExhibit 7:Environmental Determination
Exhibit 2:ProposedComprehensive Plan MapExhibit 8:SEPA Checklist
Exhibit 3:Existing ZoningExhibit 9:Notice of Public Hearing
Exhibit 4:Proposed ZoningExhibit 10:Agency Comments
Exhibit 5:Vicinity MapExhibit 11:Public Comments
Exhibit 6:Aerial Map
A.BACKGROUND INFORMATION
P ROPERTY I NFORMATION
The property consists of thirteen parcelstotaling 49.2acres, located
Size and Characteristics:
thth
adjacent to 8 Avenue on its north and to 13 Avenue on its south. The
northern portion of the site containsoffice buildingswith multiple
tenants,and commercial accessory structures. The southern portion is
largely undeveloped, forested, and contains steep slopes.
Page 1 of 8
Staff ReportCPA-2024-0001
Comprehensive Plan:Multi-FamilyResidential (MFR)
Multi-Family Residential (MFR)
Zoning:
Existing Use: Office, preschool,undeveloped parcels
S URROUNDING C OMPREHENSIVE P LAN,Z ONING,AND L AND U SES
Comprehensive Plan: Multi-Family Residential(MFR)
North
Zoning: MFR
Uses: Single-family and multi-family residences
Comprehensive Plan:Single-Family Residential (SFR)
South
Zoning: R-3
Uses: Single-family residences
Comprehensive Plan: SFR, MFR
East
Zoning: R-3, MFR
Uses: Schooldistrict facility, single-family and multi-family residences
Comprehensive Plan: Residential Low(City of Spokane)
West
Zoning: R1 (City of Spokane)
Uses: Single-family residences
A PPLICATION P ROCESSING:
Chapter 17.80 Permit Processing Procedures in the SVMC. The following summarizes key application
procedures for the proposal.
Application Submitted: November 13, 2023
SEPA DNSIssue date January5, 2024
End of Appeal Period for DNS: January 19, 2024
Date of Mailed Notice of Public HearingFebruary21, 2024
Date of Published Notice of Public Hearing: February23&March 1, 2024
UMMARY AND I MPLICATIONS OF PROPOSED AMENDMENT:
S
The City of Spokane Valley has a one-to-one relationship between most of its comprehensive plan
designations and zoning districts. Only the Single Family Residential comprehensive plan designation has
multiple implementing zoning districts. This means that all comprehensive plan map amendments require
an amendment to the zoning map. In the case of this property, a comprehensive plan map change to
Mixed Use (MU) also requires a zone change to MU, and the change to Single Family Residential (SFR)
requires a zone change to an implementing single-family zoning district. In the case of this property, the
implementing zoning district will match the adjacent R-3 zoning district.
The current comprehensive plan designation and zoning of the site is Multi-Family Residential (MFR).
The MFR zoneallows multifamily housing located near business and commercial centers, the arterial
street system, and public transit. MFR zone also allows for office uses. The proposed amendment will
change the comprehensive plan land use designation and zoning for the northern 44 acres of the site to
Mixed Use (MU) and the southern 5.2 acres of the site to Single-Family Residential (SFR). If adopted,
the MU zone would allow for a wider variety of uses including office, retail, lodging, multifamily, and
community or cultural facilities. The MU zone allows for these uses to be mixed either vertically or
horizontally. The R-3 zone would reduce the amount of allowed uses with an emphasis on single-family
residential development similar toadjacent single-family residential lots.
Page 2 of 8
Staff ReportCPA-2024-0001
B.FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS SPECIFIC TO SEPA
1.Findings:
Pursuant to Title 21 SVMC, the lead agency has determined that theproposal does not have a
probable significant adverse impact on the environment. An Environmental Impact Statement
(EIS) is not required under RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c). Consistent with Title 21 SVMC, the City
issued a Determination of Non-Significance (DNS) for the proposal on January 5, 2024.The
determination was made after review of a completed environmental checklist, the application,
Titles 19, 21, and 22SVMC, a site assessment, public and agency comments, the Comprehensive
Plan and associatedEnvironmental Impact Statement.
2.Conclusion(s):
The procedural requirements of the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) and Title 21 SVMC
have beenfulfilled.
C.FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS SPECIFIC TO THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
AMENDMENT AND AREA-WIDE REZONE
i.The City may approve Comprehensive Plan amendments and area-wide zone map amendments
if it finds that compliance with the approval criteria in SVMC 17.80.140.H.
a)The proposed amendment bears a substantial relationship to the public health, safety,
welfare, and protection of the environment;
Analysis: The proposed amendment bears a substantial relationship to public health,
safety, welfare, and protection of the environment. The proposal is a city-
initiated map amendment that would allow for a broader range of uses on the
northern portion of the property, which is accessed from 8th Avenue, a minor
arterial. Mixed-Use (MU) provides economic opportunity by allowing for two
or more different land uses within developments under this designation,
including commercial uses not allowed in under the current Multi-Family
Residential (MFR) designation. MU developments can be either vertical or
horizontally mixed, and would include employment uses such as office, retail,
and/or lodging along with higher density residential uses, and in some cases
community or cultural facilities.
The subject property was purchased by Spokane Conservation District (SCD)
approximately 7 years ago. The property is forested and was previously used
for excavation and storage of landscape materials. The SCDhas worked to
enhance the forested portions of the property and built offices to support their
operations. In addition, the SCD has for lease office space and a daycare onsite.
SCD has expansion plans that include a Farmers' Market and other similar
public-facing uses. All these uses would take place across the northern three
parcels that are directly accessed from 8th Avenue. Allowing for a re-
designation and rezone from MFR to MU would accommodate these future
plans.
In addition, the proposal recognizes that the southern portion of the property is
adjacent to lower-intensity, single-family residential areas. Due to steep
topography across the property, the southern portion of the property is
disconnected from the northern portion fronting 8th Avenue and is more easily
accessed from local access residential streets that include 13th and 14th
Avenues. Changing the designation of the southern ten parcels from MFR to
Page 3 of 8
Staff ReportCPA-2024-0001
Single-Family Residential (SFR) would reduce the potential for higher intensity
uses adjacent to the existing low-density residential neighborhood. The
southern portion of the subject property will be more closely integratedwith
existing low-density residential neighborhoods and serve as a buffer from more
intensive uses on the northern portion of the property.
b)The proposed amendment is consistent with the requirements of Chapter 36.70A RCW and
with the portion of the City’s adopted plan not affected by the amendment;
Analysis:The Growth Management Act (GMA) adopts fourteen goals to guide the
development of local comprehensive plans and development regulations. At a
broad level encouraging efficient use of transportation infrastructure and
promoting economic development meets those related GMA goals.
c)The proposed amendment responds to a substantial change in conditions beyond the
property owner’s control applicable to the area within which the subject property lies;
Analysis:The proposed amendment is not in response to a change in conditions of the
property beyond the property owner’s control.
d)The proposed amendment corrects an obvious mapping error; or
Analysis:The amendment is not in response to a mapping error and would not correct
any error.
e)The proposed amendment addresses an identified deficiency in the Comprehensive Plan.
Analysis:The proposed amendment does address a need identified in the Comprehensive
Plan. The Land Use Element of the Comprehensive Plan identifies priorities
that include supporting neighborhood-scale development that enhances local
community identity, supporting a mix of land uses, and allowing flexibility to
apply innovative development approaches. In addition, the Economic
Development Element of the Comprehensive Plan identifies priorities that
include capitalizing on local outdoor recreation opportunities. In addition, the
Natural Resources Element of the Comprehensive Plan identifies leveraging
natural assets by minimizing impacts to critical areas as a priority for
improving quality of life and attracting new business and residents. The
proposed amendmentproposal addresses these needs and priorities.
Additionally, the proposed comprehensive plan amendment is supported by the
following Goals and Policies:
ED-P6:Promote the development or redevelopment of vacant and underutilized
properties, particularly those with potential to serve as a catalyst for economic
development.
ED-P12: Leverage community assets (e.g. trails, natural amenities, and facilities) to
grow the local economy.
LU-G1:Maintain and enhance the character and quality of life in Spokane Valley.
LU-G2:Provide for land uses that are essential to Spokane Valley residents, employees,
and visitors.
LU-P1:Enable neighborhood-scale commercial uses in residential areas.
LU-P5:Ensure compatibility between adjacent residential and commercial or
industrial uses.
LU-P6:Support neighborhood efforts to sustainably cultivate produce.
LU-P7:Protect residential neighborhoods from incompatible land uses and adverse
impacts associated with transportation corridors.
Page 4 of 8
Staff ReportCPA-2024-0001
ii.The City must also consider the following factors prior to approving Comprehensive Plan
amendments:
a)The effect upon the physical environment;
Analysis: The property is developed and disturbed. The current site is forested but is
surrounded by developed areas on all sides. While the change to MU could
increase the intensity of development on the northern portion of the property,
the site is also characterized by steep slopes and containing a Special Flood
Hazard Area (SFHA), which will limit the scale of development across the
whole site. Due to the physical limitations of the property, the impact to the
physical environment would likely be minimal.
b)The effect on open space, streams, rivers, and lakes;
Analysis: The site in question does not contain streams, rivers, or lakes, but a portion of
the property is located in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) according to
the adopted Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM). The property is also forested
and includes steep terrain, which are considered to be geologically hazardous
areas within the City’s criticalareas ordinance. The City’s critical areas
ordinance and floodplain regulations will ensure adequate protection of the
critical areas and the SFHA when future development occurs.
c)The compatibility with and impact on adjacent land uses and surrounding neighborhoods;
Analysis: The proposed amendment takes the surrounding land uses into consideration.
Areas north and east of the site are designated MFR and allow for higher
density residential development. One such multi-family residential development
is under construction on the property immediately east of the site. One
additional adjacent property to the east contains Spokane School District No.
81’s Instructional Technology Support Center (ITSC), located within a former
elementary school. The ITSC no longer functions as a school but as a support
facility for School District staff. Areas south and west of the site are
characterized as low-density single-family residential uses, with land to the
west being within the incorporated limits of the City of Spokane. While MU
allows for a wide variety of uses, the presence of critical areas and physical
characteristics of the site limit the scale and intensity of development across the
entire property. To further protect the adjacent land uses to the west and south,
the proposed map amendment would also change the designation of the
southern portion of subject property to SFR. This would limit the scale of
potential development and housing densities for this portion of the property to
single-family residential uses, which is compatible with existing single-family
properties to the west and south.
d)The adequacy of and impact on community facilities including utilities, roads, public
transportation, parks, recreation, and schools;
Analysis: Sewer, water, electricity, and other utilities are available to the site. The
property is adjacent to the Spokane School District No. 81 ITSC, which is
located in a former elementary school but no longer functions as a school. The
site is approximately 0.6 of a mile from Frances Scott Elementary School and
0.9 miles from Underhill Park in the City of Spokane and 1.8 miles from
Edgecliff Park inthe City of Spokane Valley. The impact of this development on
the overall parks and recreation would be minimal and within the adopted LOS.
Page 5 of 8
Staff ReportCPA-2024-0001
Impacts to the Spokane School District would be minimal there is no adopted
LOS for schools.
In regards the transportation network, 8th Avenue is designated as a minor
arterial, the Comprehensive Plan identifies that 8th Avenue will be widened to
a 3-lane cross section with curbs, sidewalks, bike lanes, and stormwater
facilities. The forecast LOS for this stretch 8th Avenue maintains is “D”
throughout the planning horizon within the adopted LOS. The impact of
potential development under the MU zone would be minimal and within the
adopted LOS.
It should be noted that Havana Street is designated as a minor arterial
according to the City of Spokane. The City of Spokane Valley shall
communicate with the City of Spokane on all future development proposals.
The parcel is adjacent to Spokane Transit Authority (STA) Route 94, which
includes stops along 8th Avenue and provides 30-minute service frequencies
along its route betweenDowntown Spokane and the City of Millwood. Route 94
provides connections with other transit routes at multiple points along its route,
thus expanding transit access to the subject site from multiple points across the
metropolitan area. The City of SpokaneValley shall communicate with STA to
determine impacts to transit service resulting from future development
proposals.
e)The benefit to the neighborhood, City, and region;
Analysis: The proposed amendment will provide a benefit to the neighborhood, City, and
region by allowing for non-residential uses that enhance community identity
and provide additional economic opportunities. This amendment will also
allow property owners to apply innovative development approaches that will
blend a mix of uses into the existing natural environment. Any future
development proposal would protect critical areas onsite through the City of
Spokane Valley’s critical areas ordinance and floodplain regulations, which
will ensure onsite development does not create impacts to properties in the
immediate vicinity those areas further afield. Overall, this amendment
supports goals and policies within the City’s Land Use, Economic
Development, and Natural Resources Elements of the Comprehensive Plan.
f)The quantity and location of land planned for the proposed land use type and density and
the demand for such land;
Analysis: The location of the proposal and the physical attributes of the site are similar
to other areas designated MU. Approximately 40-acres of land designated
MU is located 0.3 of a mile to the east at the intersection of 8th Avenue and
Carnahan Road. As described in the Comprehensive Plan, developments with
the designation MU can be either vertical or horizontally mixed, and would
include employment uses such as office, retail, and/or lodging along with
higher density residential uses. Furthermore, areas to the north of the site are
designated MFR, which also allows for higher density residential
development and is compatible with areas zoned MU. The southern portion of
the site to be designated SFR is consistent with existing single-family
developments surround the site to its west and south. If future development is
Page 6 of 8
Staff ReportCPA-2024-0001
proposed on the areas to be designated SFR, it would be at a scale and
density compatible with the built environment to the west and south.
g)The current and projected population density in the area; and
Analysis: Across the entire city the proposed change would have little impact on
population density.
h)The effect upon other aspects of the Comprehensive Plan.
Analysis: The proposed amendment has minimal to no effect on other aspects of the
Comprehensive Plan.
Conclusion(s):
For the reasons outlined above the proposed amendment is consistent with SVMC 17.80.140(H).
D.FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS SPECIFIC TO PUBLIC COMMENTS
1.Findings:
Staff havereceived twopublic comments to date, which are included as Exhibit 11. Comments
received following the date of this staff report will be provided to the Planning Commission at
the March 14, 2024 meeting.
DateName & AddressComment(s)
Feb 26, 2024Kevin HeeWhat land uses are allowed in the MU zone?
th
4403 E 14 Avenue What uses are proposed for the property?
How is the current land use able to occurin the
MFRzone?
Feb 29, 2024Joey BainsInquiring what is happening on the subject
property.
2.Conclusion(s):
Notice of Public Hearing (NOPH) was published February 23 and March 1, 2024. The NOPH
was posted on site on February 22, 2024 and mailedto property ownerswithin a 400 foot radius
of the site on February 21, 2024.
E.FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS SPECIFIC TO AGENCY COMMENTS
1.Findings:
AgencyReceived CommentsComments Dated
City of Spokane Valley Senior Traffic Engineer
City of Spokane Valley Development Engineering
City of Spokane Valley Building & Planning
City of Spokane Valley Parks & Recreation
Spokane Valley Fire Department
City of Millwood
City of Liberty Lake
City of Spokane
City of Spokane Valley Police Department
Spokane County, Building and Planning
Spokane County, Wastewater System DivisionYes 1-16-24
Spokane County, Clean Air Agency
Page 7 of 8
Staff ReportCPA-2024-0001
Spokane County, Fire District No. 1
Spokane County, Fire District No. 8
Spokane County Regional Health District
Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency
Spokane Aquifer Joint Board
Spokane Transit Authority (STA)
Spokane Regional Transportation Council (SRTC)
Washington State Dept of Commerce
Washington State Dept of Ecology (Olympia)
Washington State Dept of Ecology (Spokane)
Washington State Dept of Fish & Wildlife
Washington State Dept of Natural Resources
Washington State Dept of Transportation
Washington State Parks & Recreation Commission
WA Archaeological & Historic Preservation
Avista Utilities
Inland Power & Light
Modern Electric Water Company
Conoco Phillips (Yellowstone Pipeline)Yes1-04-24
Central Valley School District #356
East Valley School District #361
West Valley School District #363
Century Link
Comcast
Model Irrigation District #18
Consolidated Irrigation District #19
East Spokane Water District #1
Vera Water & Power
Spokane County Water District #3
Spokane Tribe of IndiansYes1-08-24
2.Conclusion(s):
No concerns are noted.
F. CONCLUSION:
For the reasons set forth in Section C above, the proposed amendment toamend the Comprehensive Plan
and adopt the area-wide rezone to change the land use designation and zoning to of parcels 35233.9176,
35233.9191, and 35233.9192 to MU and parcels35233.0505, 35233.0513,35233.0604, 35233.0605,
35233.0606, 35233.0607,35233.0608, 35233.0609,35233.0709, and 35233.0710 to SFRcomplieswith
the requirements of SVMC 17.80.140(H) and the Comprehensive Plan.
Page 8 of 8
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1
PROJECT COMMENT TRANSMITTAL
To lbasinger@spokanevalleywa.gov
From: Dawn Dompier
Date: 01-16-2024
Planning Number Name Parent Parcels Project Type
CPA-24-01 SEPA DETERMINATION FOR 35233.9191, SEPA
2024 COMP PLAN 35233.9192,
AMENDMENT (VALLEY)35233.9176,
35233.0513,
35233.0709,
35233.0710,
35233.0604,
35233.0605,
35233.0606,
35233.0607,
35233.0608,
35233.0609,
35233.0505
General Sanitary Sewer Links
Sewer Plan Submittal: To submit a sewer plan for review, please follow this link: Sewer Plan Submittal
If your project requires a sewer plan submittal, please refer to the requirements here:
o Development Plan Review Checklist
Additional General Commercial Sewer information can be found here:
o General Commercial Sewer Info | Water Usage Estimate Form
o Sewer Planning and Design webpage: Sewer Planning & Design
Pretreatment
IF GREASE PRODUCING STATUS IS NOT KNOWN:
o Pretreatment review is required for your business or project. Please complete and return the
“Commercial Pretreatment Questionnaire” located at: www.spokanecounty.org/FOG. Additionally,
pretreatment requirements under our Industrial Pretreatment Program may apply to your business or
project, for more information, please visit: www.spokanecounty.org/IPP.
IF FACILITY IS ALREADY KNOWN TO NEED GREASE CONTROL (FOOD SERVICE ONLY):
o Pretreatment review is required for your business or project. Please complete the “GCD Sizing &
Permitting Checklist,” located at: www.spokanecounty.org/FOG and email to:
ESPretreatment@spokanecounty.org. Additionally, pretreatment requirements under our Industrial
Pretreatment Program may apply to your business or project, for more information, please visit:
www.spokanecounty.org/IPP.
IF FACILITY IS ALREADY KNOWN TO NEED GREASE CONTROL (OIL-WATER SEPARATORS ONLY):
o Pretreatment review is required for your business or project. Please visit www.spokanecounty.org/FOG
to download the “OWS Sizing” and “OWS Fact Sheet” for guidance on oil-water separators. Additionally,
pretreatment requirements under our Industrial Pretreatment Program may apply to your business or
project, for more information, please visit:
www.spokanecounty.org/IPP
PROJECT-SPECIFIC COMMENTS START ON PAGE 2
The Spokane County Public Works Wastewater
FA01System Division has no objection to the finalization of No comment for SEPA Determination
the above mentioned project.
E CONOMIC D EVELOPMENT D EPARTMENT
P LANNING D IVISION
S TAFF R EPORT TO THE P LANNING C OMMISSION
CPA-2024-0002
S TAFF R EPORT D ATE:March 7, 2024
H EARING D ATE AND L OCATION:March 14, 2024, beginning at 6:00 p.m., at Spokane Valley City Hall
and remotely via Zoom.
Project Number: CPA-2024-0002
Application Description:A request to change the land use designation and zoning for approximately
0.83 acres of Single-Family Residential to Corridor Mixed Use.
Location:17103 E Main Avenue; Parcel 55183.0723; Section 18, Township 25
North, Range 45 East, Willamette Meridian, Spokane County, Washington
Applicant:City of Spokane Valley
Property Owner:Family Promise of Spokane
Date of Application: November13, 2023
Staff Contact:Levi Basinger,Associate Planner,(509)720-5332,
lbasinger@spokanevalleywa.gov
A PPROVAL C RITERIA: Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan, Title 17 Spokane Valley Municipal Code
(SVMC) General Provisions, Title 19 SVMC Zoning Regulations, and Title 21 SVMC Environmental
Controls.
A TTACHMENTS:
Exhibit 1:ExistingComprehensive PlanMapExhibit 7:Environmental Determination
Exhibit 2:Proposed Comprehensive Plan MapExhibit 8:SEPA Checklist
Exhibit 3:Existing Zoning Exhibit 9:Notice of Public Hearing
Exhibit 4:Proposed ZoningExhibit 10:Agency Comments
Exhibit 5:Vicinity MapExhibit 11:Public Comments
Exhibit 6:Aerial Map
A.BACKGROUND INFORMATION
P ROPERTY I NFORMATION
The location for the proposed amendment is one0.83-acreparcel,
Size and Characteristics:
located at the northeast corner of the intersection between Flora Road
and Main Avenue. The property contains a single-family house and
multiple accessory structures covering the western half of the parcel.
The eastern half of the parcel includes an open area without any
structurespresent.The property is flat in its terrain.
Page 1 of 8
Staff ReportCPA-2024-02
Comprehensive Plan:Single-FamilyResidential (SFR)
Single-Family Residential (R-3)
Zoning:
Existing Use: Single-family dwelling with accessory structures
S URROUNDING C OMPREHENSIVE P LAN,Z ONING,AND L AND U SES
Comprehensive Plan: Single-Family Residential(SFR)
North
Zoning: Single-Family Residential (R-3)
Uses: Single-family residences
Comprehensive Plan:Corridor Mixed Use(CMU)
South
Zoning: CMU
Uses: Undeveloped lots, commercial businesses
Comprehensive Plan: SFR
East
Zoning: R-3
Uses: Single-familyresidences,middle school
Comprehensive Plan: SFR
West
Zoning: R-3
Uses: Single-family residences
A PPLICATION P ROCESSING:
Chapter 17.80 Permit Processing Procedures in the SVMC. The following summarizes key application
procedures for the proposal.
Application Submitted: November 13, 2023
SEPA DNSIssue date January5, 2024
End of Appeal Period for DNS: January 19, 2024
Date of Mailed Notice of Public HearingFebruary21, 2024
Date of Published Notice of Public Hearing: February23&March 1, 2024
UMMARY AND I MPLICATIONS OF PROPOSED AMENDMENT:
S
The City of Spokane Valley has a one-to-one relationship between most of its comprehensive plan
designations and zoning districts. This means that all comprehensive plan map amendments require an
amendment to the zoning map. In the case of this property, acomprehensive plan map change to Corridor
Mixed Use (CMU) also requires a zone change to CMU.
The current comprehensive plan designation and zoning of the site is Single-Family Residential (SFR)
and R-3. The R-3 allows for single-family residential development that provides flexibility and promotes
reinvestment in existing single-family neighborhoods. The proposed amendment will change the
comprehensive plan land use designation and zoning for the 0.83-acre siteto CMU. The CMU allows for
light manufacturing, retail, multifamily, townhomes, cottages, and offices. Adjacent residential zones are
protected through transitional standards in chapter 19.75 SVMC.
The owner of the subject property, Family Promise of Spokane, is a community service provider, a
nonprofit or charitable organization that provides a local service to the communityfamilies that are
experiencing homelessness and housing instability. It should be noted that all Community Service uses
require a Community Services permit consistent with chapter 19.45 SVMC, and no application for a
Community Service has been received. Community Service uses are permitted in both the R-3 and CMU
Page 2 of 8
Staff ReportCPA-2024-02
zone. The amendment would allow more families to be served in this location as well as allow for office
uses that are not allowed in the R-3 zone.
B.FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS SPECIFIC TO SEPA
1.Findings:
Pursuant to Title 21 SVMC, the lead agency has determined that theproposal does not have a
probable significant adverse impact on the environment. An Environmental Impact Statement
(EIS) is not required under RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c). Consistent with Title 21 the Cityissued a
Determination of Non-Significance (DNS) for the proposal on January 5, 2024.The
determination was made after review of a completed environmental checklist, the application,
Titles 19, 21, and 22SVMC, a site assessment, public and agency comments, the Comprehensive
Plan and associatedEnvironmental Impact Statement.
2.Conclusion(s):
The procedural requirements of the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) and Title 21 SVMC
have beenfulfilled.
C.FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS SPECIFIC TO THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
AMENDMENT AND AREA-WIDE REZONE
i.The City may approve Comprehensive Plan amendments and area-wide zone map amendments
if it finds that compliance with the approval criteria in SVMC 17.80.140.H.
a)The proposed amendment bears a substantial relationship to the public health, safety,
welfare, and protection of the environment;
Analysis: The proposed amendment bears a substantial relationship to public health,
safety, welfare, and protection of the environment. The proposal is a city-
initiated map amendment that would allow more intensive residential use on a
property within 700 feetSprague Avenue. CMU provides for economic
opportunity by allowing a wide range of uses including multifamily and offices.
The CMU recognizes the historical low-intensity, auto-dependent development
pattern within the City’s major transportation corridors and is primarily used
along Sprague Avenue, and the north-south arterials. The property is adjacent
to Flora Road, a minor arterial.
The property is located on Flora Road, an arterial and within 1/10th of mile of
Sprague Avenue, making CMU areasonable designation for this location. In
addition, the proposal bears a substantial relationship to public, health safety,
and general welfare because the potentially expanded uses allowed in the CMU
allow for the provision of services to meet the needto provide services to
families who are experiencing housing insecurity.
b)The proposed amendment is consistent with the requirements of Chapter 36.70A RCW and
with the portion of the City’s adopted plan not affected by the amendment;
Analysis:The Growth Management Act (GMA) adopts fourteen goals to guide the
development of local comprehensive plans and development regulations. At a
broad level encouraging efficient use of transportation infrastructure and
promoting economic development meets those related GMA goals. In addition,
in 2021 the legislature adopted amendments to the GMA to require cities to
Page 3 of 8
Staff ReportCPA-2024-02
accommodate and plan for a variety of housing insecure uses, including
transitional housing.
c)The proposed amendment responds to a substantial change in conditions beyond the
property owner’s control applicable to the area within which the subject property lies;
Analysis:While the proposed amendment is not in response to a change in conditions of
the property beyond the property owner’s control, providing for family
homeless services is a response to changes in state law and recent population
growth and available housing for these services within the City.
d)The proposed amendment corrects an obvious mapping error; or
Analysis:The amendment is not in response to a mapping error and would not correct
any error.
e)The proposed amendment addresses an identified deficiency in the Comprehensive Plan.
Analysis:The proposed amendment does address a need identified in the Comprehensive
Plan. The Housing Element of the Comprehensive Plan identifies that while the
City has a strong network of various non-profits, faith-based organizations and
school districts that help serve those who are facing housing instability as well
as households that are unsheltered, what is missing are location within the City
to access to these services. Specifically, a high degree of reliance has been on
the City of Spokane to physically house these services, which in turn requires
Spokane Valley residents to travel when resources are needed. The City
supports locating facilities that seek to serve those experiencing homelessness
and housing instability with facilities within close proximity of public
transportation.Additionally, the need for homeless and housing insecurity
services are identified in the following Housing Goal and Policies:
H-G4:Work collaboratively with local stakeholders to development a homeless
response system specific to the need of the Valley
H-P8:Ensure the provision of homeless and housing services have commensurate on-
site support to maintain the character of neighborhoods and minimize public
service calls.
H-P9:Support community resource hubs where service providers can co-locate in
areas in close proximity to public transportation.
H-P10: Ensure equal access for Valley residents to publicly funded programs,
transportation, job opportunities and housing.
H-P11: Engage in active recruitment of service providers that desire to serve Valley
residents through targeted programs focused on homeless service delivery.
H-P14: Leverage federal, state and local funds, when appropriate, to bolster existing
programs provided to Valley residents.
H-P15: Encourage and support new projects and programs which seek to assist in
maintaining housing stability or provide exits from homelessness to housing.
ii.The Citymust also consider the following factors prior to approving Comprehensive Plan
amendments:
a)The effect upon the physical environment;
Analysis: The property is developed and disturbed. While the change in CMU could
increase the intensity of development on the property, the impact to the physical
Page 4 of 8
Staff ReportCPA-2024-02
environment would be minimal. There is no concern about the effect of the
physical environment.
b)The effect on open space, streams, rivers, and lakes;
Analysis: There are no known critical areas associated with the site, such as wetlands,
fish and wildlife habitat areas, frequently flooded areas or geologically
hazardous areas. The parcel is not located within shoreline jurisdiction, and
there are no known surfacewater quality or quantity issues. The City’s critical
areas ordinance will ensure that adequate protection of the critical areas and
adjacent land use are addressed when future development occurs.
c)The compatibility with and impact on adjacent land uses and surrounding neighborhoods;
Analysis: The proposed amendment is locatedin an area of the City that is rapidly
changing with infill commercial, multiple-family, and detached family
development. Immediately to the south is the large swath of CMU zoning that
borders Sprague Avenue. While immediately to the east, west, and north, the
land is designated Single Family Residential, these areas are transitioning from
historic large parcels to smaller urban infill.Farther to the east is Greenacres
Middle School,which is zonedand designated CMU.While CMU allows for a
wide variety of uses, due to the size of the parcel, it’s expected development on
the parcel would be at a scale and size to minimize impacts on adjacent land
uses. Further, to protect the adjacent land uses, if the amendment is approved,
the property would be subject to the city’s transitional provisions, which
minimize impacts tothe less intensive single-family zones from the more
intensive CMU zone.
d)The adequacy of and impact on community facilities including utilities, roads, public
transportation, parks, recreation, and schools;
Analysis: Sewer, water, electricity, and other utilities are available to the site. The
property is about 1 mile from Greenacres Park, 400 feet from Greenacres
Middle School, 1 mile to Greenacres Elementary School, and 0.25 miles from
the Appleway Trail. The impact of this development on the overall parks and
recreation would be minimal and within the adopted LOS. Impacts to the
Central Valley School District would be minimal, and there is no adopted LOS
for schools.
In regards the transportation network, Flora Road is designated as a minor
arterial. The Comprehensive Plan identifies that Flora will be widened to a 3-
lane cross section with curbs, sidewalks, and stormwater facilities. The forecast
LOS for this stretch Flora maintains is “D” throughout the planning horizon
within the adopted LOS. The impact of potential development under the CMU
zone would be minimal and within the adopted LOS.
The parcel is within 1/4 mile of STA Route 98 and within 1/2 mile of STA Route
95. These routes provide service frequencies of every 30-minutes in each
direction between the Valley Transit Center, Liberty Lake ,and the Spokane
Valley Amazon Fulfillment Center. Whilethese routes provide access to a
number of daily goods and services , access to the Valley Transit Center
expands the available service and express services to Downtown Spokane,the
primary transit hub for the region.
Page 5 of 8
Staff ReportCPA-2024-02
e)The benefit to the neighborhood, City, and region;
Analysis: The proposed amendment will provide a benefit to the neighborhood, City, and
region by providing opportunity to provide much needed housing and meet the
City’s goals of providing housing options to minimize impacts to those
experiencing housing instability. The expanded allowed uses allowed by CMU
meets adopted policies . Additionally, the change provides the opportunity to
provide a range of housing choices with close, convenient access to amenities
as expressed in the comprehensive plan.
f)The quantity and location of land planned for the proposed land use type and density and
the demand for such land;
Analysis: The location of the proposal is in an area that typically would meet the
description of CMU zone. Which is described in the Comprehensive Plan as
being located along major transportation corridors along Sprague Avenue,
and the north-south arterials. The location one block north of Sprague along
Flora, a designated arterial, is a suitable location for the CMU zone.
g)The current and projected population density in the area; and
Analysis: Across the entire city the proposed change would have little impact on
population density.
h)The effect upon other aspects of the Comprehensive Plan.
Analysis: The proposed amendment has minimal to no effect on other aspects of the
Comprehensive Plan.
Conclusion(s):
For the reasons outlined above the proposed amendment is consistent with SVMC 17.80.140(H).
D.FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS SPECIFIC TO PUBLIC COMMENTS
1.Findings:
Staff have received threepublic comments to date;whichare summarized below and included as
Exhibit 11. Comments received following the date of this staff report will be provided to the
Planning Commission at the March 14, 2024 meeting.
DateName & AddressComment(s)
Feb 27,2024Dennis CrapoProperty will be adversely impacted by the
(920 Evergreen, LLC) proposed amendment.
17028 E Riverside Lane
March 3, 2024Stewart and Mary Margaret
Disagree with the zoning change.
Bowmer
Concern with traffic generated.
No design incorporated to encourage
mixed-use orwalkable environment.
Rezoning this property encroaches into
single family neighborhood.
March 5, 2024Todd R. Whipple
Request denial of amendment
Cause damage to adjacent single-family
neighborhood.
Previous comprehensive plan
amendment from SFR to CMU was
denied in 2018.
Page 6 of 8
Staff ReportCPA-2024-02
2.Conclusion(s):
Notice of Public Hearing (NOPH) was published February 23 and March 1, 2024. The NOPH
was posted on site on February 22, 2024 and mailed to property owners within a 400 foot radius
of the site on February 21, 2024.
E.FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS SPECIFIC TO AGENCY COMMENTS
1.Findings:
AgencyReceived CommentsComments Dated
City of Spokane Valley Senior Traffic Engineer
City of Spokane Valley Development Engineering
City of Spokane Valley Building & Planning
City of Spokane Valley Parks & Recreation
Spokane Valley Fire Department
City of Millwood
City of Liberty Lake
City of Spokane
City of Spokane Valley Police Department
Spokane County, Building and Planning
Spokane County, Wastewater System DivisionYes 1-16-24
Spokane County, Clean Air Agency
Spokane County, Fire District No. 1
Spokane County, Fire District No. 8
Spokane County Regional Health District
Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency
Spokane Aquifer Joint Board
Spokane Transit Authority (STA)
Spokane Regional Transportation Council (SRTC)
Washington State Dept of Commerce
Washington State Dept of Ecology (Olympia)
Washington State Dept of Ecology (Spokane)
Washington State Dept of Fish & Wildlife
Washington State Dept of Natural Resources
Washington State Dept of Transportation
Washington State Parks & Recreation Commission
WA Archaeological & Historic Preservation
Avista Utilities
Inland Power & Light
Modern Electric Water Company
Conoco Phillips (Yellowstone Pipeline)Yes1-04-24
Central Valley School District #356
East Valley School District #361
West Valley School District #363
Century Link
Comcast
Model Irrigation District #18
Consolidated Irrigation District #19
East Spokane Water District #1
Page 7 of 8
Staff ReportCPA-2024-02
Vera Water & Power
Spokane County Water District #3
Spokane Tribe of Indians
Yes1-08-24
2.Conclusion(s):
No concerns are noted.
F. CONCLUSION:
For the reasons set forth in Section C above, the proposed amendment toamend the Comprehensive Plan
and adopt the area-wide rezone to change the land use designation and zoning ofparcel 55183.0723 to
CMUcomplies with the requirements of SVMC 17.80.140(H) and the Comprehensive Plan.
Page 8 of 8
Economic DevelopmentDepartment
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Hearing Date
Pursuant to Spokane Valley Municipal Code (SVMC) 17.80.120, Notice of Public Hearing, the Planning
Division is sending notice of a public hearing to all property owners within 400 feet of project number
CPA-2024-01. The public hearing for this project is scheduled for Thursday, March 14, 2024 beginning
at 6:00 p.m.,or as soon thereafter as can be heard, at Spokane Valley City Hall, 10210 E Sprague Ave,
Spokane Valley, WA 99206.
Meeting Details: The hearing will be conducted in person, with the option to attend remotely using web
and telephone conference tools. A link to the Zoom meeting will be provided on the agenda and posted to
the City’s webpage: www.spokanevalleywa.gov/201/planning-commission.
Project Information
Project Number: CPA-2024-0002
Application A request to change the land use designation and zoning for approximately
Description:0.83 acres of Single-Family Residential to Corridor Mixed Use.
Location:17103 E Main Avenue; Parcel Number 55183.0723; Section 18, Township
25 North, Range 45 East, Willamette Meridian, Spokane County,
Washington. The site is located at the northeast corner of the intersection
between Flora Road and Main Avenue.
Applicant:City of Spokane Valley
Owner: Family Promise of Spokane
Staff Contact:Levi Basinger,Associate Planner;10210 EastSprague Avenue, Spokane
Valley, WA 99206; phone: (509)720-5332; email:
lbasinger@spokanevalleywa.gov
Hearing Process and Appeals
The Planning Commission will conduct the hearing pursuant to the rules of procedure adopted in SVMC
Title 18 (Boards and Authorities). The Planning Commission will forward a recommendation on the
request to the Spokane Valley City Council.
ProvidingComments
The public is encouraged to provide comment in person at the hearing, or to submit written comments prior
to the hearing by sending the comments to Levi Basinger, 10210 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley, WA
99206, or email to lbasinger@spokanevalleywa.gov. Comments will need to be submitted no later than
4:00 PM on March 14, 2024in order for them to be received and prepared for submission into the record.
Comments received will be entered into the record at the time of the public participation portion of the
Public Hearing. Comments received through US Mail will be included if they are received prior to the
hearing.
All interested persons may testify at the public hearing in person or via the zoom meeting address and/or
phone number. Interested persons will need to sign up via ZOOM to speak no later than 4:00 p.m. on March
14, 2024at the link provided in the agenda posted at the link referenced above. Use the link above to sign
up for oral public comments. The link will direct you to directions to sign up for oral public comments.
This is not an opportunity for questions or discussion. Remarks will be limited to three minutes per person.
Written comments and documents may only be submitted prior to the hearing.
Environmental Determination
Pursuant to Title 21, Environmental Controls of the Spokane Valley Municipal Code (SVMC), the lead
agency has determined that it does not have a probable significant adverse impact on the environment. A
Determination of Non-Significance wasissued under Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 197-11-
340(2) on January 5, 2024.The appealperiod for the determination ended January 19, 2024.
Staff Report and Inspection of File
A staff report will be available for inspection seven (7) calendar days before the hearing. The staff report
and other associated documents may be inspected by searching under “Current Agenda” at this web address:
www.spokanevalleywa.gov/202/planning-commission.If you have any questions, please contact Levi
Basinger, at (509) 720-5332 or lbasinger@spokanevalleywa.gov.
CPA-2024-0002 Notice of Public Hearing Page 2 of 2
S pokane Tribe of Indians
Tribal Historic Preservation Officer
PO Box 100 Wellpinit WA 99040
January 8, 2024
To: Levie Basinger, Planner
RE:File No. CPA-2024-01 and CPA-2024-02
Mr. Basinger,
Thank you forcontacting the Tribe’s Historic Preservation Office. We appreciatethe
opportunity to provide a cultural consult for your project. The intent of this process is to
preserve and protect all cultural resources whenever protection is feasible.
This office has no concerns of the City issuing a (DNS) for the annual Amendments to
the comprehensive plan for CPA-2024-01 and CPA 2024-02 however once the request
has change from zoning to multifamily our archive research these two projects havea
high probability of encountering cultural resources within the proposed project area,
Recommendation: Archaeological survey for all ground disturbing activity and
Inadvertent Discovery plan implemented in the scope of work plan.
However, if any artifacts or human remains are found upon excavation activity this
office is to be notified and the immediate area cease.
Should additional information become available, or scope of work change our assessment
may be revised. Again, thank you for this opportunity to comment and consider this a
positive action that will assist us in protecting our shred heritage.
If questions arise, please contact me at (509) 258 – 4222.
Sincerely,
Randy Abrahamson
Tribal Historic Preservation Officer
1
PROJECT COMMENT TRANSMITTAL
To lbasinger@spokanevalleywa.gov
From: Dawn Dompier
Date: 01-16-2024
Planning Number Name Parent Parcels Project Type
CPA-24-02 SEPA DETERMINATION FOR 55183.0723 SEPA
2024 COMP PLAN
AMENDMENT (VALLEY)
General Sanitary Sewer Links
Sewer Plan Submittal: To submit a sewer plan for review, please follow this link: Sewer Plan Submittal
If your project requires a sewer plan submittal, please refer to the requirements here:
o Development Plan Review Checklist
Additional General Commercial Sewer information can be found here:
o General Commercial Sewer Info | Water Usage Estimate Form
o Sewer Planning and Design webpage: Sewer Planning & Design
Pretreatment
IF GREASE PRODUCING STATUS IS NOT KNOWN:
o Pretreatment review is required for your business or project. Please complete and return the
“Commercial Pretreatment Questionnaire” located at: www.spokanecounty.org/FOG. Additionally,
pretreatment requirements under our Industrial Pretreatment Program may apply to your business or
project, for more information, please visit: www.spokanecounty.org/IPP.
IF FACILITY IS ALREADY KNOWN TO NEED GREASE CONTROL (FOOD SERVICE ONLY):
o Pretreatment review is required for your business or project. Please complete the “GCD Sizing &
Permitting Checklist,” located at: www.spokanecounty.org/FOG and email to:
ESPretreatment@spokanecounty.org. Additionally, pretreatment requirements under our Industrial
Pretreatment Program may apply to your business or project, for more information, please visit:
www.spokanecounty.org/IPP.
IF FACILITY IS ALREADY KNOWN TO NEED GREASE CONTROL (OIL-WATER SEPARATORS ONLY):
o Pretreatment review is required for your business or project. Please visit www.spokanecounty.org/FOG
to download the “OWS Sizing” and “OWS Fact Sheet” for guidance on oil-water separators. Additionally,
pretreatment requirements under our Industrial Pretreatment Program may apply to your business or
project, for more information, please visit: www.spokanecounty.org/IPP
PROJECT-SPECIFIC COMMENTS START ON PAGE 2
The Spokane County Public Works Wastewater
FA01System Division has no objection to the finalization of No comment to the SEPA Determination
the above mentioned project.
The Spokane County Public Works Wastewater
FA01System Division has no objection to the finalization of No comment for SEPA Determination
the above mentioned project.
CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY
Request for Council Action
Meeting Date: April 16, 2024 Department Director Approval
Check all that apply: consent old business new business public hearing
information admin. report pending legislation executive session
AGENDA ITEM TITLE: 2024 Comprehensive Plan Amendments (CPA) – Admin Report
GOVERNING LEGISLATION: RCW 36.70A, SVMC 17.80.140 and 19.30.010
PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION TAKEN: On December 13, 2016, City Council approved Ordinance
16-018, adopting the Comprehensive Plan and associated development regulations. On December 19, 2023,
the City Council approved the 2024 Comprehensive Plan Amendment Docket.
BACKGROUND: The GMA (Growth Management Act) allows local jurisdictions to consider
amendments to their Comprehensive Plans once each year. The City codified this process in Section
17.80.140 of the Spokane Valley Municipal Code (SVMC). Consistent with the SVMC, staff published
notice on September 15 and 22, 2023, advising the public of the annual amendment process and that the
City would accept applications for the 2024 cycle through November 14, 2023.
On December 19, 2023, the City Council approved the 2024 Docket. The Docket included two site specific
map amendments to the Comprehensive Plan, file no. CPA-2024-01 and CPA-2024-02.
On January 5, 2024, the City issued Determinations of Non-significance (DNS) for the proposed
comprehensive plan amendments pursuant to Title 21, Environmental Controls of the SVMC.
On February 23 and March 1, 2024, notice for a public hearing on the proposed amendments was placed in
the Spokane Valley News Herald. On February 22, 2024, the sites subject to an amendment were posted
with a “Notice of Public Hearing” sign with a description of the proposal and information on the public
hearing. On February 21, 2024, a notice of public hearing was mailed to property owners within 400 feet
of the proposed amendment sites.
On February 8 and 22, 2024, the Planning Commission held study sessions on the proposed 2024
Comprehensive Plan amendments. A public hearing on the proposed amendments was held March 14, 2024.
Following the public hearing, the Planning Commission deliberated on the proposed amendments. On March
28, 2024, the Planning Commission voted to recommend that the City Council approve CPA-2024-01 and
deny CPA-2024-02. The Findings and Recommendation are included as an attachment.
BUDGET/FINANCIAL IMPACTS: None
OPTIONS: The City Council may accept, deny, or modify the Planning Commission recommendations. If
the Council chooses to modify a proposal and the modifications are substantial, the City Council must either
conduct a public hearing or refer the proposal back to the Planning Commission for further consideration.
RECOMMENDED ACTION OR MOTION: Consensus to move CPA-2024-01 to a first reading of the
ordinance, accepting the recommendation of the Planning Commission. Consensus to withdrawal the
application for CPA-2024-02 and not move forward to a first reading.
STAFF CONTACT: Levi Basinger, Associate Planner
ATTACHMENTS:
PowerPoint Presentation
Planning Commission Findings and Recommendations: General, CPA-2024-01 and CPA-2024-02
Planning Commission minutes: February 8, 2024, February 22, 2024, March 14, 2024, March 28, 2024
(draft)
Staff Report with attached exhibits for CPA-24-01
Staff Report with attached exhibits for CPA-24-02
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2/08 & 2/22/243/14/243/28/24
———
DRAFT
ADVANCE AGENDA
as of April 10, 2024; 4:00 p.m.
Please note this is a work in progress; items are tentative
To: Council & Staff
From: City Clerk, by direction of City Manager
Re: Draft Schedule for Upcoming Council Meetings
April 11, 2024 Special Meeting, Right Sizing Police Services Project 8:00a.m. 9:30a.m. @ CenterPlace
April 15, 2024 Special Meeting, Right Sizing Police Services Project 5-7:00p.m @ Centennial Middle School
April 17, 2024 Special Meeting, Right Sizing Police Services Project 1 2:30p.m. @ Spokane Valley Library
April 23, 2024 Formal Meeting, 6:00 p.m. \[due Tue April 16\]
Proclamation: Arbor Day
1. Consent Agenda (claims, payroll, minutes) (5 minutes)
2. Motion Consideration: Clean Building Requirements & Potential Grant Opportunity Gloria Mantz (10 minutes)
3. Admin Report: SVPD Update Chief Ellis, Aubrey Siino (15 minutes)
4. Admin Report: Recreation and Aquatic Season Preview Kendall May (15 minutes)
5. Admin Report : Local Drug Use Regulation Kelly Konkright (15 minutes)
6. Admin Report: Cross Country Course Update Mike Basinger (10 minutes)
7. Admin Report: Construction Management Update Bill Helbig (20 minutes)
8. Admin Report: Solid Waste Program Update Bill Helbig (25 minutes)
9. Advance Agenda Mayor Haley (5 minutes)
10. Info Item: Potential Opioid Settlement Agreement Tony Beattie
11. Info Only: Department Monthly Reports; Fire Dept Monthly Report
\[*estimated meeting: 120 mins\]
April 30, 2024 Study Session, 6:00 p.m. \[due Tue April 23\]
Proclamation: AAPI Heritage Month & Older Americans Month
1. Ordinance 24-00__: First Read for Comp. Plan Amendments Levi Basinger (5 minutes)
2. Resolution: 24-___: Balfour Park RCO Grant - John Bottelli (10 minutes)
3. Motion Consideration: Potential Opioid Settlement Agreement Tony Beattie (10 minutes)
4. Motion Consideration: Cross Country Course Contract Award - Mike Basinger (10 minutes)
thrd
5. Motion Consideration: Bowdish Road Project 12 Avenue to 23 Avenue Bid Award Erica Amsden (10 minutes)
6. Motion Consideration: Sprague Avenue Stormwater Project Bid Award Rob Lochmiller (25 minutes)
7. Admin Report: Public Defense Caseload Standard Update Tony Beattie, Morgan Koudelka (20 minutes)
8. Advance Agenda Mayor Haley (5 minutes)
\[*estimated meeting: 95 mins\]
May 7, 2024 Study Session, 6:00 p.m. \[due Tue April 30\]
1. Ordinance 24-00__: Second Read for Comp. Plan Amendments Levi Basinger (5 minutes)
2. Admin Report: Rayce Rudeen Foundation Erik Lamb, Marsha Malsam (30 minutes)
3. Admin Report: Resolution 24-00XX: Letters of Support Virginia Clough (10 minutes)
4. Admin Report: Pot. Grant Opp. Pedestrian Bicycle Prgm & Safe Routes to School Prgm- A. Jackson (10 minutes)
5. Advance Agenda Mayor Haley (5 minutes)
May 14, 2024 Formal Meeting, 6:00 p.m. \[due Tue May 7\]
Proclamation: National Police Week
1. Consent Agenda (claims, payroll, minutes) (5 minutes)
2. Motion Con: Pot. Grant Opportunity Pedestrian Bicycle Prgm & Safe Routes to School Prgm Jackson(5 minutes)
3. Admin Report: Post-Session Report/Presentation Virginia Clough, Briahna Murray (30 minutes)
4. Admin Report: 6-Year Transportation Improvement Program Adam Jackson (10 minutes)
5. Advance Agenda Mayor Haley (5 minutes)
Draft Advance Agenda 4/11/2024 4:35:00 PM Page 1 of 2
May 21, 2024 Study Session, 6:00 p.m. \[due Tue May 14\]
1. Advance Agenda Mayor Haley (5 minutes)
May 28, 2024 Formal Meeting, 6:00 p.m. \[due Tue May 21\]
1. Consent Agenda (claims, payroll, minutes) (5 minutes)
2. Advance Agenda Mayor Haley (5 minutes)
3. Info Only: Department Monthly Reports; Fire Dept Monthly Report
June 4, 2024 Study Session, 6:00 p.m. \[due Tue May 28\]
1. Admin Report: Presentation Aging & Long Term Care Lynn Kimball (15 minutes)
2. Advance Agenda Mayor Haley (5 minutes)
June 11, 2024 BUDGET WORKSHOP 8:30 a.m. 3:00 p.m. \[due Tue June 4\]
1. BUDGET WORKSHOP
June 18, 2024 Study Session, 6:00 p.m. \[due Tue June 11\]
1. Public Hearing: 6-Year Transportation Improvement Program (20 minutes)
2. Motion Consideration: 6-Year Transportation Improvement Program (5 minutes)
3. Advance Agenda Mayor Haley (5 minutes)
June 25, 2024 Formal Meeting, 6:00 p.m. \[due Tue June 18\]
1. Consent Agenda (claims, payroll, minutes) (5 minutes)
2. Advance Agenda Mayor Haley (5 minutes)
3. Info Only: Department Monthly Reports; Fire Dept Monthly Report
July 2, 2024 Study Session, 6:00 p.m. \[due Tue June 25\]
1. Advance Agenda Mayor Haley (5 minutes)
July 9, 2024 Formal Meeting, 6:00 p.m. \[due Tue July 2\]
1. Advance Agenda Mayor Haley
July 16, 2024 Study Session, 6:00 p.m. \[due Tue July 9\]
1. Advance Agenda Mayor Haley (5 minutes)
July 23, 2024 Formal Meeting, 6:00 p.m. \[due Tue July 16\]
1. Consent Agenda (claims, payroll, minutes) (5 minutes)
2. Advance Agenda Mayor Haley (5 minutes)
3. Info Only: Department Monthly Reports; Fire Dept Monthly Report
July 30, 2024 Study Session, 6:00 p.m. \[due Tue July 23\]
1. Advance Agenda Mayor Haley (5 minutes)
*time for public or council comments not included
OTHER PENDING AND/OR UPCOMING ISSUES/MEETINGS:
250th USA Celebration SCRAPS
9-1-1 calls (delays, holding, etc.) Vehicle Wgt Infrastructure Impact
Appleway Trail Amenities
AWC Summary of Arguments
City Brand Update
DOT Clean Up
Gang Task Force Update
Group Home Regulations
Mirabeau Park Forestry Mgmt.
ORV usage on streets
Park Camera Update
Park Lighting
Peer Court
Protection of Utility Infrastructures
Draft Advance Agenda 4/11/2024 4:35:00 PM Page 2 of 2