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2011, 08-23 Regular Meeting Minutes MINUTES City of Spokane Valley City Council Regular Meetings Formal Meeting Format Tuesday, August 23, 2011 Mayor Towey called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Attendance: Citv Staff' Tom Towey, Mayor Mike Jackson, City Manager Bill Gothmann, Councilmember Cary Driskell, City Attorney Dean Grafos, Councilmember Mark Calhoun, Finance Director Brenda Grassel, Councilmember Rick VanLeuven, Police Chief Chuck Hafner, Councilmember Neil Kersten, Public Works Director Arne Woodard, Councilmember Steve Worley, Senior Engineer Mike Stone, Parks and Recreation Director Absent: Inga Note, Traffic Engineer Gary Schimmels, Deputy Mayor Carolbelle Branch, Public Information Officer Chris Bainbridge, City Clerk INVOCATION: Pastor Manuel Denning of Fountain Ministries Church gave the invocation. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Mayar Towey led the Pledge of Allegiance. ROLL CALL: City Clerk Bainbridge called the roll; all councilmembers were present except Deputy Mayor Schimmels. It was moved by Councilmember Grafos, seconded and unanimously agreed to excuse Deputy Mayor Schimmels from tonight's meeting. APPROVAL OF AGENDA: It was moved by Councilmember Grafos, seconded and unanimously agreed to approve the agenda. INTRODUCTION OF SPECIAL GUESTS AND PRESENTATIONS• COMMITTEE, BOARD. LIAISON SUMMARY REPORTS• Councilmember Hafner: extended congratulations to Parks and Recreation Director Stone on Terrace View Park and the staff working at the pool; mentioned he is on the oversight committee for emergency communication and Crime check and attended a conference this morning with the Board of County Commissioners with the meeting focus on the 1/10 of 1%, and said all is in order and by 2012 we will have to go to a narrow instead of a broad band for all emergency communications. Councilmember Grassel: no report. Councilmember Grafos: said he attended a Chamber of Commerce business meeting at the Mirabeau with a presentation by Baker Construction discussing what's happening in the construction industry and what we can expect to see in the near future. Councilmember Gothmann: reported he also went to the Chamber of Commerce meeting; attended an open house at Fire Station #5 and they discussed long —term planning and how they strategically placed fire stations to get to the need as fast as possible, and said about 80% of their calls are medical. Councilmember Woodard: reported he also attended the Chamber business meeting. MAYOR'S REPORT: Mayor Towey reported he attended a Senior Volunteer Program Appreciation/Awards event at CenterPlace with about 300 volunteers where they recognized about ten outstanding volunteers, and said he was honored to welcome them in the opening ceremonies. Council Regular Meeting 08 23-2011 Page 1 of 6 Approved by Council: 09-27-2011 PUBLIC COMMENTS: Mayor Towey invited general public comments. Rick Cartwri�ht 11017 East Spra u�e said he opened the "big orange train" as a learning center for children to learn the history of the railroad and anything to do with trains; and he invited everyone to come visit; and mentioned that most people in the community tell him how wonderful it is to have someone in the train again, since it has been vacant for about five years. He said they hope to open between Thanksgiving and Christmas. 1. PUBLIC HEARING: 2012 Revenues and Expenditures — Mark Calhoun Mayor Towey opened the public hearing at 6:15 p.m. Finance Director Calhoun explained that the purpose of tonight's hearing is to get public input on the proposed 2012 revenues and expenditures; and he went over some background of what has transpired thus far in preparation of the 2012 budget. Mr. Calhoun also mentioned that a previous document contained a typographical error and that the 87.25 number of employees has not changed and is the same as 2011. Mayor Towey invited public comment and no comments were offered. Councilmember Woodard distributed to council, copies of a"Policy Note" from the Washington Policy Center of July 2011, which included a review of Washington State's 2011-13 budget and recommendations for structural reform. Councilmember Gothmann spoke about the funds our city has in its various reserve funds amounting to a total of $38.4 million in all reserves, which he said represents 110% carryover, and said it is normally prudent to have a 15% carryover, and he emphasized we are in good financial condition. Mayar Towy closed the public hearing at 6:34 p.m. 2. CONSENT AGENDA: Consists of items considered routine which are approved as a group. Any member of Council may ask that an item be removed from the Consent Agenda to be considered separately. a. Approval of the following claim vouchers: VOUCHER LIST DATE VOUCHER NUMBERS• TOTAL AMOUNT 08-02-2011 5300-5308 (refunds) $454.20 08-OS-2011 23498-23549; 727110025 $1,618,316.13 08-OS-2011 23550-23580 $37,445.57 08-09-2011 5309-5315 (refunds) $626.00 08-11-2011 23581-23603 (minus 23587); 805110006 $1,016,365.30 08-12-2011 23604-23619 $124,198.64 08-12-2011 23620-23632 $29,290.62 08-12-2011 23633 $143.31 GRAND TOTAL: $2,826,839.77 b. Approval of Payroll for period ending August 15, 2011: $271,745.18 c. Approval of Re-appointment of Shane Comer to Housing Development Advisory Committee d. Approval of Resolution 11-006 for Easement Extinguishment e. Approval of Minutes of August 9, 2011 Formal Council Meeting It was moved by Councilmember Grafos, seconded and unanimously agreed to approve claims for vouchers as listed above in the consent agenda. City Clerk Bainbridge asked for clarification that the motion included consent items b, c, d, and e, and councilmembers concurred that was their intent. OLD BUSINESS 3. Tabled Motion of July 26 2011: Railroad Quiet Zone — In a� Note It was moved by Councilmember Grafos and seconded to remove from the table the motion to authorize the City Manager or designee to finalize and execute a contract with David Evans and Associates for approximately �82,551 to proceed with their scope of work to ident� the improvements, policies and strategies needed to accomplish quiet zone implementation. Traffic Engineer Note then explained that council had previously asked for additional information on the option of a wayside horn; she said she spoke with those who specialize in the wayside horns and obtained two quotes which range between Council Regular Meeting 08 23-2011 Page 2 of 6 Approved by Council: 09-27-2011 $65,000 to $180,000 per crossing; and said the cost varies because if we have several roads at the crossing, sometimes more than one horn would be needed; so we might need horns not just for Vista or Park but for other streets, and said further analysis would be needed. Mayor Towey invited public comment, and Tonv Lazanis 10626 E Empire, said everything is ready and the thing needed to do to stop the horns is put the public signs on Trent which indicate the area is a quiet zone, and said other than that, it is ready for a quiet zone since the center barrier and markers are already in place. Councilmember Gothmann mentioned that the place at issue is the railroad that runs beside Felts Field. Council discussion included wanting more details on the horns and an explanation of how it is different from quiet zones; mention of citizen expectations; of the need to hire the engineering firm to make the analysis, which is the purpose of the David Evans proposal; and Councilmember Woodard discussed information contained in his handout from AHS (Automated Horn System), and questioned the process for selecting a consultant. City Manager Jackson explained that the city staff selects a consultant or engineer based on qualifications, and once selected a fee is negotiated; but that staff is responsible for that aspect and that staff is required to follow certain procedures and state regulations in selecting a consultant, while council approves contracts; and said if council wants to broaden the scope of the project, to let him know. Councilmember Grassel suggested if having quiet zones is something council is interested in, that Council should take a look at the entire city. Vote by Acclamation to remove the item from the table: In Favor: Mayor Towey, Deputy Mayor Schimmels, and Councilmembers Hafner, Grassel, Gothmann and Grafos. Opposed.• Councilmember Woodard. Motion passed and the previous motion was opened for discussion. Several councilmembers mentioned that the $82,000 is not budgeted, and that they would like further information. Mayor Towey invited public comment. Joe McGrath, 9320 E. Mont omery, said the Greater Northern horns go off toward his house but he doesn't hear the BP trains very much; said the concern about BP is far less than the horns of the Greater Northern which sound almost every 5 minutes, and he said the horns are especially disturbing at night. Tony Lazanis, 10626 E. Empire said he thinks Council should have the right to get a specialized firm; that there shouldn't be anything to stop council from getting information, including help from Olympia Lobbyists; and said he doesn't think Mr. Jackson should say Council can't do it. Mayor Towey said there is a distinction between the responsibility of the council and that of the staff and it is Council's responsibility to ask for more information, but it is not Council's responsibility to choose the consultant and the fees that they charge. Councilmember Gothmann agreed and said the rules are in place so that elected officials can't tell their friends that the Council will get them a contract; but rather the choice is up to the city administrator which makes for good checks and balances. Councilmember Hafner called for the question, and there was unanimous agreement in favor of calling for the question. Vote by acclamation on the original motion to authorize the City Manager or designee to frnalize and execute a contract with David Evans and Associates for approximately $82,551 to proceed with their scope of work to ident� the improvements, policies and strategies needed to accomplish quiet zone implementation: In Favor: Councilmember Gothmann. Opposed.• Mayor Towey, Deputy Mayor Schimmels, and Councilmembers Hafner, Grassel, Grafos, and Woodard. Motion failed. NEW BUSINESS 4. Pronosed Resolution 11-007 Amendin� 2011 Transportation Improvement Plan — Steve Worl� It was moved by Councilmember Grafos and seconded to approve Resolution No. 11-007 adopting the Amendment #2 to the 2011 TIP as presented. Mr. Worley explained that this is more of a housekeeping item; that council adopted the amended 2011 TIP based upon information staff had earlier this year and since that adoption, staff submitted an application for the Federal Transit Administration's (FTA) New Freedom program and was awarded funding for the Sidewalk and Transit Accessibly Project. Mr. Worley Council Regular Meeting 08 23-2011 Page 3 of 6 Approved by Council: 09-27-2011 said this project proposes using REET (real estate excise tax) funds for the local match and state statutes require projects using REET funds to be in an adopted plan, and amending the 2011 TIP satisfies this requirement. Mayor Towey invited public comment; no comments were offered. Vote by Acclamation: In Favor: Unanimous. Opposed.• None. Motion carried. 5. Motion Consideration: TIB Project Proposal Mansfield Avenue — Steve Worlev It was moved by Councilmember Grafos and seconded to approve the Mansfield Avenue Connection project for TIB grant application as presented. Senior Engineer Worley explained that a few weeks ago, staff brought forward a list of projects for possible submission to the Transportation Improvement Board (TIB) for their current call for projects; and that council agreed on a list of six projects; but that the day after the approval, Mr. Worley met with some local developers who he had previously asked if they were interested in participating in a project as a private partner developer; and that he heard a day or two later that they would be interested in participating as a partner/developer; and said they agreed to participate and Mr. Worley referred to the tables contained in the council packet material showing project funding scenarios. Mayar Towey invited public comment. Tom Hamilton, a partner in the Granite Point Apartments� he said they paid $167,000 for permits, and he said they will need an extension of those permits because the road has not gone through; he said they were assured, back to 2004, that the road would go through; he said the part that Mr. Worley pointed out that they paid for, 87 feet of road, was in excess of $800,000 that they paid; and in addition to the permit fee, the paid a$207,000 mitigation fee for the light at Mansfield and Pines; he said the city stands to gain a lot more strictly from sales tax, employment, and over 200 residents that will be there, plus the property tax; he said the developer has already put in over $1 million, and for the city to put in $100,000 to get that little six-plex knocked down and to take that road through appears to be a no-brainer; and he said they were assured by the County many years ago befare the City was formed, that this would happen, and he asked council to understand that the city will make money and not spend money by approving this project. Bill Lawson, Senior Partner of Granite Point Apartments, said this project has a great deal of history, and even the railroad crossing got moved down, and he said by putting in that 770 feet of road, which he didn't want to do because he thought it would never get done, that they gave up about two acres of land to put in this road, right-of-way and swales, and said there is an additional land value about $250,000; and said it is time to get it done, and he asked for Council approval. There were no other public comments. Councilmember Grassel asked who owns the property where the six-plex sits, and Mr. Worley replied they would have to research that; and if the owners don't want to sell, he said the City has the right of condemnation, which would be a council decision, adding that the City has never used that process. Vote by Acclamation on the motion to approve the Mansfreld Avenue Connection project for TIB grant application as presented: In Favor: Unanimous. Opposed: none. Motion carried. 6. Motion Consideration: Set 2012 Bud�et Hearings — Mark Calhoun It was moved by Councilmember Grafos and seconded to set the 2012 budget hearing dates for September 27 and October 11, 2011. Finance Director Calhoun explained that this is an important and necessary part of the 2012 budget process, and that state law requires that we hold two public hearings; and setting the dates as mentioned will keep us on track to adopt the 2012 budget. Mayor Towey invited public comment; no comments were offered. Vote by Acclamation: In Favor: Unanimous. Opposed: None. Motion carried. PUBLIC COMMENTS: Mayor Towey invited public comment. Tony Lazanis submitted a letter concerning paying for a survey in an attempt to divide his private property into two lots; and he asked for an answer to his situation. Mr. Jackson said staff will research the issue and respond to Mr. Lazanis. Council Regular Meeting 08 23-2011 Page 4 of 6 Approved by Council: 09-27-2011 Mayor Towey called for a recess at 7:35 p.m. and reconvened the meeting at 7:50 p.m. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS: 7. Traffic School — Morean Koudelka Senior Administrative Analyst Koudelka explained that currently the Spokane County Sheriffls office operates a traffic school for qualifying individuals who receive traffic infractions in the unincorporated County; and that the school allows officers to interact with the individuals in a positive environment providing education on traffic laws and safe driving techniques, and in return the participant has their infraction dismissed upon satisfactory completion of the class. After Mr. Koudelka gave his PowerPoint presentation on the subject, there was council consensus to move this forward for a motion consideration at a future meeting. 8. Review of ordinance that Levies 2012 propertv tax — Mark Calhoun• and 9. Review of Ordinance to Contirm Tax Lew — Mark Calhoun Finance Director Calhoun explained that these are the ordinances that are required by law in order to levy property taxes, and then to confirm the tax levy; that the levy will not have an increase except for new construction, and our levy amount remains the same with neither an increase nor decrease. Mr. Calhoun said these ordinances, along with the ordinance to adopt the budget, will be brought before Council later this fall as a first and second reading. 10. Sullivan Brid�e Review — Steve Worley Senior Engineer Worley explained that due to its deteriorating condition, staff has been evaluating the Sullivan Road West Bridge and pursuing funding for its replacement; that the bridge was given a Sufficiency Rating of 24.14 in its 2010 Bridge inspection and it was determined to be "structurally deficient." Mr. Warley mentioned that the estimated bridge replacement will cost $19.7 million, and that currently the city has received a federal bridge replacement gant for $8 million and a FMSIB grant for $2 million; and said the federal grant requires a 20% match. Mr. Worley said the bridge is not in immediate risk of failure, and the purpose of placing weight restrictions on the bridge is to slow further deterioration; and he explained more about the weight restrictions, the notification process, options to prevent further damage, and of the estimated needed funds to move forward; and further explained that this is a two year process to complete planning, reviewing, permitting and designing phases, and that the bridge ranked #1 in priority last year by SRTC (Spokane Regional Transportation Council) for regional significance. 11. Contract Authoritv, SVMC 3.35 — Mike Jackson City Manager Jackson explained that a few weeks ago a question was raised about the process and authority of the City Manager concerning granting contracts ar change orders; and Mr. Jackson explained that per our Municipal Code, the City Manager is autharized to enter into contracts, contract changes and change orders without council approval when the aggregate amount and all contract amendments does not exceed $200,000; and said the exception to this is on contracts previously approved by council, then the City Manager has authority to execute amendments which aggregate amounts are less than 15% of the original contract amount, or up to $200,000, whichever is less. Mr. Jackson said staff in public works tracks all the change orders so the City Manager knows the total amount priar to executing the contracts. 12. Advance A�enda — Mavor Towey Councilmember Grafos asked that council review the city policy on car shows and said different clubs seem to think we are resistant to their types of activity and they were chased out of the area; and City Manager Jackson asked if Mr. Grafos has names of those concerned so that staff can discuss the issue with them; and Mr. Grafos agreed he would supply the needed information. Mr. Grafos also mentioned he would like more information on quiet zones and to have AHS make a presentation to council in the future. Mr. Jackson said we are not currently considering the award of a contract, but staff can look for someone to make a presentation on the wayside horns; and Council concurred. Council Regular Meeting 08 23-2011 Page 5 of 6 Approved by Council: 09-27-2011 INFORMATION ONLY (13) Department Reports, (14) Greater Spokane, Inc. Quarterly Report, and (15) Receipted Copy of Submitted Ordinance to Spokane County Elections Office were for information only and were not discussed or reported. 16. EXECUTIVE SESSION Performance Review of a Public Employee [RCW 42.30.110(1)(g)] It was moved by Councilmember Grafos, seconded and unanimously agreed to adjourn into executive session for fifteen minutes to discuss the performance review of a public employee, and that no action is anticipated upon return to open session. Council adjourned into executive session at approximately 9:02 p.m. At 9:25 p.m. Mayor Towey declared council out of executive session, and it was moved by Councilmember Grafos, seconded and unanimously agreed to adjourn. The meeting adjourned at approximately 9:26 p.m. ,, � ', �. ATTEST: _ Thomas E. Towey, Mayor � ,- � ��.,ll'1 /;:�-� ristine Bainbridge, City Clerk Council Regular Meeting 08 23-2011 Page 6 of 6 Approved by Council: 09-27-2011 GENERAL PUBLIC COMMENT SIGN-IN SHEET SPOKANE VALLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: August 23, 2011 GENERAL CITIZEN COMMENTS YOUR SPEAKING TIME WILL GENERALLY BE LIMITED TO THREE MINUTE Please si n in if ou wish to make ublic comments. NAME TOPIC OF CONCERN YOUR COMPLETE TELEPHONE PLEASE PRINT YOU WILL SPEAK ADDRESS ABOUT --� T T,/'�i.� /i c�,� ? c= s'�i�a�6F' 6 v� �� -��2�� y o ; .�S�3 � -� �� ; ,1 � � � � ti�S �� a /� CS69 �� ._, , .��. ,gt:�s��' /�i � � , �� y' y�iZ �r Please note that once information is entered on tltis form, it becomes a public record subject to public disclosure. WASHINGTON POLICY CENTER . I�C�LICY �T �� /naprovic�9 �ives ttirouyti �vrqrketso��tioHS � � _ T � � '� :; A Review of Washington State's 20 I 1-13 Budget and Recommendations for Structural Reform by Jason Mercier Director, WPC's Center for Government Reform July 201 I Key Findings I. The legislature took positive Introduction steps this year to put the state on a more sustainable budget Though it took a special session to finish its work on the 2011-13 budget, path. the legislature took positive steps this year to put the state on a more sustainable budget path. Despite progress, however, an inadequate reserve fund coupled with 2. An inadequate reserve ongoing economic uncertainty and projected future spending pressure leaves the fund, coupled with ongoing state's budget outlook on tenuous ground highlighting the need for additional economic uncertainty and structural reforms and spending restraint. projected future spending pressure leaves the state's budget outlook on tenuous �tate Spending Trends ground. While the discussion focused on spending cuts during the 2011 Legislative 3. Total budgeted spending is Session, state spending is projected to increase both for "Total Budgeted" spending set to increase $3.2 billion for and the "Near General Fund Sta.te" (NGFS). Although this increase in spending 20 I I- I 3. for the NGFS follows a 2009-11 budget cycle that saw a significant decrease in spending, Total Budgeted spending has not decreased since the onset of the "great 4. Near General Fund State recession." Total Budgeted spending includes the transportation, capital and spending is set to increase operating budgets including federal funds and grants. Near General Fund State $ I.7 billion for 201 I- I 3. is the account that principally supports the operation of state government and is funded primarily by state sales, property, a.nd business and occupation ta.xes. 5. After years of flat or declining revenue, state revenues are . projected to grow again by TOta� BIJd$eteC� $Pe11C�lllg $3.5 billion for 201 I- I 3. �eo - 6. State government ,- employment is projected to �� ;,�,� o ��:`? � �, decrease by 1,578 full-time = �.�� , � � ; equivalent (FTE) employees m �60 - ,,-�:� for 201 I- I 3. b `.� k� ; i; �4 : - O �f'� � .� � � 4� � $50 E . -�; �� kt f ; A ; > ; �,�� s: t ��: t ;� _ ,' � � ��' �'�, � r�" � 7, 9 .� : �: �- I ` � ,'�1 � �, � �� $40 i - - � -- �--'-`LL---r-= � ..,. _ ` - _ I999-01 2001-03 2003-05 2005-07 2007-09 2009-II 2011-13 �� , , ,� � , ,�, ,� ��''� Source: fiscal.wa.gov POLiCY CENTER Page � I WASHINGTON POLICY CENTER � PO GOX 3�43 SFATTLE, WA 9812�E I(� ZO6-�37-9h91 I WASHINC�T(lNP(�I IC'1'(1RC� Total Budgeted spending is set to increase $3.2 billion for 2011-13. This builds on increases of $2.4 billion for 2009-11, $8 billion for 2007-09 and $7 billion for 2005-07. Since 1999-01, Tota1 Budgeted spending has increased 66 percent. Near General Fund State Spending $35 -;-,� � � � - � .� :�:. N � O $ — ; v �� I 31 i � t__ L .T. T +3'� ' r ('c Xj ,-I �'�} I �Fs' L m r:�'�,�` i� � -,'4d� c=s� .N 1 2 < L .` `�'�.:;t�� L ��: � ' ^ � '� b � 'u3>. E i' .: ' x Y� $25 - f�' � Q � t �. �;. � i� 3� � r�:� 4� �,-� �� z�' i� � y(,� � Fx.� ��: 4i`�` � . ��: � , ��', � i � y� °". s � . _i $20 - ` i ��' �`� � ~ �' 3 , � �' �i: �,,��: � � 1999-0 I 200 I-03 2003-05 2005-07 2007-09 2009-1 I 201 I-I 3 �`�i' '"`";� „�,� � �� .� ,; , „„ Source: fiscal.wa.gov POLtCY CENTER Near General Fund State spending is set to increase $1.7 billion for 2011- 13. This follows a decrease of $2.3 billion for 2009-11 and increases of $2.4 billion for 2007-09 and $4.6 billion for 2005-07. Since 1999-01, NGFS spending has increased 43 percent. Revenue Forecast $35 � N I . _ - � �30 � -- -., �:;�; o� r � i(� -� ..: . } � L _ � � � .� ' � �t � N c l �'�- v�� .]�d� km.�y O �Z$ - �` ' '+"'; — O �( - • � �t � �' �� 4 �'� � � i ' ' � � � � � _ �� ,�. � �. � � �.; � .} $20 ,--s='=='--,-4:_�_ � :s:�l ` �? ��'4 ,�� r ;,� > . ,— � =--,—� I 999-01 2001-03 2003-05 2005-07 2007-09 2009-I I 201 I-I 3 ,:.., ; ,� , ,; �, ,� y � Source: Washington State Economic PO LI CY C E N T E R a�d Revenue Forecast Council After years of flat or decli.ning revenue, state revenues are projected to grow again by $3.5 billion for 2011-13. This follows a decrease of $1.8 billion for 2009-11 and increases of $88 million for 2007-09 and $4.8 billion for 2005-07. Since 1999-01, state revenues have increased 41 percent. Page � 2 WASHINGTON POLICY CENTER � PO 60X 3643 SEATTLE, WA 98124 � P 206-937-9691 � WASHINGTONPOLICY.ORG Full-Time Equivalent Employees 114,OOU ------- _.__ __ � 1 12.000 � — — — — I 10.000 — ' ,;)----- 108,000 — — � - — � 106,000 r— � 1 : .c"4 � d i { �: ,, q� - . y ,�-'�� '� e ; � � :, , �— I 04,000 - �-� � j-- s �� — IO2,000 -- � �� . � ;� :�_ I Y (�i - 1 I oO�OQO I � � �� ' �� ' � ' rk �� 3[ 98,000 �}°� � i �:�� r � 1 .- �+ _ +' — � , �� r y 96,000 I � i i j r`'�,' t ,,; J _� :'� j—. 94,004 � �'� �' —�-'= � � �—_-_.��.—i�— '--'�—� 1999-0I 2001-03 2003-05 2005-07 2007-09 2009-II 2011-13 ^ ��.� ��: ,� �� ,,; r„�� Source: fiscal.wa.gov POLICY CENTER State government employment is projected to decrease by 1,578 full-time equivalent (F'TE) employees for 2011-13. This is down 4,989 from the peak of 111,984 FTEs in 2007-09. Since 1999-01, FTEs have increased 6 percent. Understanding the $5 Billion Shortfall With increases in both revenues and spending for 2011-13, why all the discussion of budget cuts and a$S billion plus budget "deficit"? This question , can be answered by understanding the components of what is more appropriately referred to as the budget "shortfall" lawmakers were tasked with closing. The distinction between a"deficit" and a"shortfall" is the difference between current appropriations and revenues and projected future spending and revenues. Sta.te spending is projected to be around $30.3 billion for 2009-11. Revenues are projected to be around $32 billion for 2011-13. So why the need to solve a$5 billion shortfall? The first part of this answer lies in the fact that revenues for 2009-11 were approximately $28.5 billion yet spending was $30.3 billion. This means that the 2009-11 budget was "balanced" with one-time funding sources for ongoing spending. Thus despite nearly a$3.5 billion increase in revenue for 2011-13, lawmakers were already approximately $2 billion in the hole. The remainder of the $5 billion shortfall comes from assuming that the 2009-11 budget would continue without reductions and adjusting for inflation and caseloads as well as funding the two "free" education in.itiatives from 2000 (I-728 and I-732; when passed they both promised voters to not require a tax increase or hurt the budget; subsequent ballot measures to raise taxes to pay for these measures were rejected by voters) to the tune of nearly $2 billion more in spending, making $700 million in pension catch-up payments, and providing state employees pay raises among other policy additions. Essentially this means lawmakers initially wanted to bring state spending for 2011-13 to around $37 billion, up from $30 billion despite revenues of only $32 billion. Page � 3 WASHINGTON POLICY CGNTCR � PO 60X 36'�3 SEATTLE. WA 98124 � P 206-937-9691 � WASHINGTONPOLICY.ORG 20 I I- I 3 Balance Sheet While the majority of the $5 billion shortfall was due to the need to replace one-time funding sources and reduce projected future spending increases, lawmakers were forced with making real reductions in some programs in 2011-13 to account for the fact they failed to align spending to the revenue forecast in 2009- 11 and 2007-09. One of the major positive developments this year was at the time of its adoption, the 2011-13 budget was the first budget since 1997 that spent less than forecasted revenue. It is important to note Iawmakers accomplished this "Budgeting 101" feat of spending within the revenue forecast without raising general taxes. This primarily occurred as a result of voters framing the budget debate last November by rejecting Initiative 1098 (creation of a high earners income tax) and adopting Initiative 1107 (repeal of various tax increases) and Initiative 1053 (restoring the two-thirds vote requirement for tax increases). The budget does, however, rely on $517 million in fee increases. The vast majority of these fee increases are for higher education tuition {$369 million). Unfortunately Iawmakers did not leave a big enough reserve which became apparent the day after the budget was signed by the governor when most of the ending fund balance was wiped out by the June revenue forecast — leaving only $163 million in total reserves for 2011-13 or less than 0.5% of spending (prior to the June 2011 forecast there was $723 million in total reserves or 2.3% of spending). This scant remaining reserve increases the possibility of a special session being necessary later this year should the economic ouflook worsen. Next Steps: Recommendations for Structural Reform Along with putting the state's budget a step closer to sustainability, lawmakers also enacted many important reforms. Among the unprovements adopted this year: • Consolidation of the state's administrative agencies into a new Department of Enterprise Services as well as improvements to the state's competitive contracting process (expected to save approximately $19 million). • Reducing the sta.te's unfunded liability in older pension plans by ending automatic benefit increases. This is expected to save over $300 million in the next two years and nearly $8 billion over the ne� 25 years. • Passage of a proposed consritutional amendment (SJR 8206) that, if ratified by voters in November, would help ensure "extraordinary" revenue growth is saved in the state's constitutionally protected reserve account instead of spent. While these are important changes, additional reforms are needed as the state continues down. the path toward sustainable budgeting. Among the changes needed: • Structural requirement that lawmakers set aside at least a 5% reserve Page � 4 (not counting constitutional rainy-day account) when adopting the initial WASHfNGTON POLICY CENTER � PO [iOX 3643 SEnTTLE, WA 98124 �(' 206-937-9691 � WAS1-IINGTONPOLICY.ORG biennial budget (for a$32 billion budget this would be reserves of around $1.6 billion versus the $723 million initially set aside). • Commitment to repeal versus suspend programs the state cannot afford, in order to avoid pressure on future budget writers. For example, I-728, I-732 paid family Ieave, and the ending of the temporary 3% salary reduction for state employees will have significa.nt projected costs for the 2013-15 budget outlook. • Protections for dedicated accounts and user fees to help avoid these accounts and fees from becoming targets for fund sweeps. • A constitutional tax and spending limit (modeled after the voter approved Initiative 601 framework adopted in 1993). • Legislative control over state employee compensation policy as part of the public budget process, versus merely an up or down vote based on union negotiations conducted secretly and exclusively with the governor. • Proactive competitive contracting. • Performance-based budgeting. Many of these recommenda.tions are explained in greater detail in our January 2011 publication "Ending the Spending Crisis: Structural Reforms for a Sustainable State Budget." Though challenges remain, the legislature took ,Iason Mercier is director of the , importa.nt steps this year by limiting spending to within the state's revenue Center for Government Reform forecast. The failure to lea�e an adequate reserve coupled with the ongoing at Washington Policy Center•, economic uncertainty, however, means additional structural reforms and spending a non partisan independent � restrauzt will continue to be necessary as the state recovers from the impact of policy research organization in past overspending combined with the "great recession," and embraces the path of Washington state. sustainable budgeting. � Page � 5 . WASHINGTON POLICY CENTEE' � PO BOX 3643 SE�TT�E, WA 98124 � P 206-937-9691 � WASHINGTONPOUCY.ORG ANTHONY N. LAZANIS 10626 E. Empire Spokane Valley WA 99206 Tel: 509 924-4899 August 11, 2011 Spokane Valley Council Re: Cost of Lot Line Adjustment Dear Sirs and Madam: I have a legal lot with a little house on it next to the legal lot on which my home is located. I want to divide the lot on which the little house is located into finro parcels. I want to give to my son the front half of the lot which has the little house on it. The back half of the lot will become part of the lot on which my home is located. Both lots will still be legal size lots. I have a record of survey on both of the lots, and there are survey pins at the corners of both lots. I already have a fence dividing the lot on which the little house is located. It seems to me to be a relatively simple matter to adjust the lot line befinreen the two lots. I have submitted the necessary information to the planning department, but they tell me I have to hire a licensed surveyor to duplicate the information I have submitted. The going price to that with licensed surveyors is approximately $2,500.00. I � is outrageous to require a citizen to incur that kind of expense just to divide his own property into two tax parcels. I think the Council should take action to di�ect the planning department to reduce the unnecessary red tape, and reduce this burden on the citizens. Sincerely, , .� � � �� ,��-��ti�� _ % Anthony N. Lazanis _ � : _ .F} $+�, Jf - - R - 1 . . {+ M1 C J - TM Automated Horn System What is an Automated Horn SystemT'" ? a product oFRailroad Controls Limited The Automated Horn System (AHSTM') is a wayside horn system activated by the railroad � � crossing warning system. The AHS is mounted ,� � � at the crossing, rather than on the locomotive, ;;�, � '� to deliver a more consistent audible waming to � �`"� � r motorists and pedestrians while eliminating '� �� ti�. �� ti; ,;�° '� s�'"� noise pollution in neighborhoods for more than � =' . w.�� : µ, �� '�~ one-half (1/2) mile alongthe rail corridoc The �> "`�''�"�''�''' ��` �" �� • �n;. �� Federal Railroad Administration Train Hom a..��. tj�'�'V _ . � � � • AlllI1L-�. �? �. �� '� J Rule has defined the wayside horn as a � ..� ��, � 5 -� i� �, . one-for-one substitute for the train horn. � �: � _ . — . . _ . �` .,�'i t :':"� " : :;.�" Sound Comparison of a Train Horn vs. the AHST"' � E • Locomotive engineers are required by the new FRA train horn rule to �� =; � begin sounding the locomotive hom at a minimum of 15 seconds prior � 0-� 0 to the train's arrival at the grade crossing. They are also required to ��,�� , �� . =� � continue to sound the horn until the train arrives at the crossing. _,_ ..._.. ` ,� .--- - , ,,G+� _ _ �'°. .. �� ,' If the train horn is to be an effective warning device for the motorist, it ' must provide a sound level capable of initiating a response from the dnver _�. ; � when the train is approaching the crossing. Unfortunately the sound level �� .� � '. i � , required to achieve that response and the location of the train relative to the -�=� �. � ____,.� 'ti� ' `'�a � �, t • � crossing creates a significant noise impact on the community. �� .� .,�,` .:, /"• Nr 'Hx� ��i A Proven Technology � . "vna The AHST"' is the only proven innovative ��.:„,�': '�s:r+.� railroad signaling device that significantly � s�- _ ��S improves safety for motorists and pedestrians � °� at railroad-highway grade crossings while 4 � ` dramatically red�cing the amount of noise ,� ,� �, ollution created b train homs alon rail �' ��' ,,��r��= ��,� P Y g __ - ..,..T..- - - corridors in populated areas. �'� � Train Hom :, Automated Hom System _ Decibel (dBA) Contour Map ? �ecibel (dBA) Contour Map '�.. .. -�---'i --.... �'•... :'. _. --_ ! ----• 500' �'� 7000' ��.7500' S00' �'•; 7000' �'; 1500' <Train Direction ., ...... � ...... Train � e�a� �� o, � : Morn "'�-. i _ .:''� . _� Smarno,' � •�.- � ' � : : `""•' """ � 90 Decibels and above ..... : ..... ..` �- � • ----- : -"- - .. O 80-90Decibels J iW rE�"" 7471 Benbraok Parkway • Benbrook, TX 76126 • T 817 820 6350 • F 817 820 6340 • QuietZoneTech.com 6 A Partner in Safery with RCL � S - � Q ! � W .� A 6 �. �?..' `,�. .-'�& - • � � � � � _ y��.,� �.,:�; � �;, - - • � - - � 4 ' ' �-a � � . AHST"" is designed to sound like a train When the locomotive engineer sees that the a horn. The sound files in the Automated Horn UQZI flashing, the routine sounding of the �� SystemT"' were digitally recorded from an train hiorn is not required. If however, the �- � actual locomotive horn. Upon receipt of the engineer detects an unsafe condition at the � signai from the railroad's crossing warning crossing sounding of the train horn wil{ be - system, AHST"' mimics the train horn required. Coordination with the railroad + warning by cycling through the standard operating company is essential since the railroad whistle pattern until the train AHST"' is directly connected to the railroad's reaches the crossing. Once the train enters crossing warning system. Additionaliy, the A �� the crossing, the AHST"' ceases to sound its raiiroad operating company must issue waming. A Universai Quiet Zone indicator instructions to their train crews regarding the �s°�;',,:' '� (UQZI) notifies the locomotive engineer that sounding or non-sounding of the train's horn. �� the AHSTM is functioning properiy. What the Residents say in Response to the AHS"' Installation: "The Automated Horn System has greatly reduced the train noise in my home. With the automated system I "We had thought about selling our home because the can sleep through the night and that really improves my train horns bothered us so much. Then, Glory be to quality of life. Thank You!" — Citizen, Riverside, CA God, you installed the Automated Horn Systems and we have a new life." — Citizen, Ames, IA '...analysis of the effectiveness of automated horns as a safety feature and as a method of reduci�g noise f�om "The City has done a good job. Keep up the good train horns. On both counts the automated horn proved work.." — Citizen, Roseville, CA extremely successful ." — Mayor, Mundelein, IL We also offer Quiet Zone Evaluations v:a� �,� o,. , z � • Field Review of Existing Crossings °\ � e��+��,o„�.. • Outlined Process to Create Quiet Zones • Evaluation of the Quiet Zone Solutions � • • Live Demonstration and Public Education • Cost Estimates for Each Treatment J a TECHN��oGi[s � Summary Report of Evaluations 7471 8enbrook Parkway • Benbrook, TX 76126 • T 817 820 6350 • F 817 820 6340 • QuietZoneTech.com `r � WaY in p�� 2 � � r, ,,, � � p Solu ons _c tj a � � • � � ,', � �� ;: � �_� �� - � " � �� TE �HNOtocies Tested, Proven, Reliable .�.. �.; � . - , . � '� R R � _ �� = � �. �. �� c �� , �,;�� N 0 � ;., � -.- � �� T�� ; ,°' _ � TRAIN HORN _ p :: „� .� ._ ..,. .. „ � �. . . . . ,_ . r � . . . . .. . .' . g o - ; ,..,;,, .z,�.i'��.,-+e