Public Meetings - Yakima, Washington

The Yakima City Council held a regular meeting on December 10, 2024, at 5:30 PM in City Hall Council Chambers, chaired by Mayor Patricia Byers. The meeting included public comment, consent agenda items, and several department discussions and resolutions. Key actions included approving appointments, authorizing contracts for a roundabout project, creating an ad hoc budget committee, and adopting resolutions related to opioid settlement funds and a community diversion court. The council also voted to schedule future discussions on homelessness and land use topics. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the December 3, 2024 regular meeting. - Set a public hearing for January 7, 2025, on an Interlocal Agreement for the 2024 Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program. - Approved payment of disbursements for November 2024 ($various) - Accepted November 2024 Investment Transaction Report. - Accepted project completion for S. 2nd Avenue Water Main Replacement (Tri-Valley Construction Inc.) and Convention & Event Center Bathroom Remodel (Kitt Construction & Development LLC). - Adopted resolutions updating financial policies 3-190 (Financial Management Policy) and 3-200 (Fund Balance for General Fund & Operating Reserve). - Authorized agreements for: Connetix Engineering (Wastewater Treatment Plant SCADA upgrade), CDBG funding for Aquatic Center at MLK Jr. Park, Interlocal with Washington Traffic Safety Commission (law enforcement liaison), lease with Yakima MSA Limited Partnership (Fire Station 93 tower space), BERK Consulting (Comprehensive Plan Periodic Update and Climate Resilience/Transportation Plan), and a CARB loan application for Yakima Air Terminal. - Adopted ordinances: 2024 Budget amendment (second reading), Comprehensive Plan amendment and rezone for 2300 E. Birch Street, and employee Classification and Compensation Plan update (effective January 13, 2025). - Items I, J, and S were removed from the consent agenda for separate discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Joe Daniels, City resident, read religious passages from Romans 15 and 2 Timothy 3. - Joe Mann, downtown business owner, expressed strong support for the DYBID downtown beautification program, noting that property owners and businesses contribute annually to keep the core attractive and that the city acts as a pass-through for those funds. - Jeanna Hernandez, City resident, encouraged the council to focus on setting policy rather than micromanaging smaller-dollar items, especially when larger issues like public safety are at stake. Discussion Items - Adopt-A-Block Program (Item 9A): City Manager Vicki Baker, IT analyst Randy Bonds, and Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Meloney Rosen presented a concept for a public-private partnership to allow residents and organizations to adopt blocks for cleaning and neighborhood revitalization. The program would use an online platform to track adoptions, and Habitat for Humanity could offer volunteer coordination and potential future services like painting and home repairs. The council discussed the potential for community engagement and partnership with existing programs. No formal action was taken; the program is in early development. - DYBID Maintenance Options (Item 9B): City Manager Baker presented alternative options for downtown maintenance currently provided by DAY (Downtown Association of Yakima) under a $175,000 annual contract (expiring 2028). Additional city costs (irrigation, flowers, police presence) total approximately $265,000 annually. Quotes from three contractors were: Hillbilly Haulers ($200,355/year), Profession Landscaping ($229,920/year), and Senski ($295,000/year). An in-house estimate via Clean Cities was $223,600/year (including two new positions). Councilmember Brown moved to send the options to the DYBID advisory group for feedback and report back in 45 days; the motion carried unanimously. - Ad Hoc Budget Advisory Committee (Item 9C): City Attorney Sara Watkins presented a resolution to create a seven-member committee appointed by each council member, with members preferably having professional experience in budget, public finance, or government budgets. The committee would advise on priority-based budgeting, revenue options, and outreach. The resolution was adopted 7-0. - Opioid Settlement Resolution (Item 9D): Senior Assistant City Attorney Cynthia Martinez presented a resolution rescinding previous Resolution R-2024-193 and authorizing $419,591 in opioid settlement money for the Community Diversion Court over five years (with a five-year extension option), specifying Opioid Abatement Strategies B and D3. The resolution was adopted 7-0. - People for People Agreement (Item 9E): Martinez presented a resolution authorizing a contract with People for People to provide assessment, case management, treatment referral, and return-to-work programming for the Community Diversion Court through December 2029. The resolution was adopted 7-0. - Burning Material Ordinance (Item 9F): Martinez presented an ordinance amending Municipal Code Section 6.56.050 to modernize language and improve enforcement of unlawful burning on public property. The ordinance was adopted 7-0. Key Outcomes - Appointments Approved: The Council Nominating Committee's recommendations for the Yakima Arts Commission (Margot Stroop, Kimberly Ruck) and Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (Charles Robin, Luis Gutierrez, Lisa Vallejo) were approved by unanimous vote. - Roundabout Project Contracts Authorized: Resolutions R-2024-217 and R-2024-218 were approved 7-0, authorizing agreements with HLA Engineering & Land Surveying Inc. (construction management) and TTC Construction Inc. (construction) for the 34th Avenue/Fruitvale/River Road Roundabouts Project. The project is 100% grant-funded through multiple state and federal grants. - Public Improvements Ordinance Amended: Ordinance No. 2024-046, amending Municipal Code Chapters 12.01 and 12.20 relating to construction of public improvements, was passed 7-0 after removing a section that was inadvertently included. - Future Homelessness Discussion: Councilmember Glenn's motion to schedule a future discussion on homelessness, including drug issues and safety, was approved unanimously. - Future Land Use Study Session: Mayor Byers' motion to schedule a study session on land use basics, middle housing legislation, and the comprehensive plan process was approved unanimously. - Next Meeting: The council will hold a study session on December 17, 2024, at 5:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers.

The Yakima City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. in Yakima City Hall Council Chambers, with in-person and virtual attendance. Mayor Patricia Byers presided; Assistant Mayor Matt Brown and Council Members Reedy Berg, Janice Deccio, Rick Glenn, Danny Herrera, and Leo Roy (via Zoom) were present. No public hearings were held. The council approved consent items, adopted utility fee resolutions, heard public comments, and set up a future discussion of Wiley City sewer needs. The meeting adjourned at 6:22 p.m. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the November 19, 2024 regular meeting and November 26, 2024 special meeting. - Adopted Resolution R-2024-211 setting the 2025 City Council regular meeting schedule. - Passed Ordinance 2024-038 creating Special Revenue Fund 155 for Opioid Settlement Revenue. - Passed Ordinance 2024-039 establishing Pension Trust Fund 613 (Police Relief and Pension Fund) under YMC Chapter 1.49. - Passed Ordinances 2024-040, 2024-041, and 2024-042 approving three Comprehensive Plan Amendments/Rezones: five parcels near the 2000 block of Viola Ave and Simpson Ln; 7500 W Nob Hill Blvd; and 8603/8604 Ahtanum Rd. - All consent agenda items were approved in one motion by a 7-0 roll call vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Forbes Mercy, city resident, donated $50,000 to Parks and Recreation and $10,000 to the Yakima Fire Department for smoke detectors, urging support for park programs and citing smoke-related fatalities in Union Gap. - Cynthia Hall, Chair of the Historic Preservation Commission, opposed the Sixth Avenue rebuilding/renovation option that would remove the trolley tracks, saying the tracks are an irreplaceable link to Yakima's unique interurban electric railroad history and that removing them would jeopardize a nearly complete National Historic Landmark application. - Tony Courcy (transcribed as Corsi) made critical comments about council, referencing what he called years of neglect, a prior two percent vote, and dissatisfaction with council actions. Discussion Items - Proclamation: Council approved the Alan Sillence Day proclamation, requested by Parker U Sports, noting precedent for individual proclamations. Motion passed 7-0. - Utility rate package: Public Works Director Scott Schafer summarized water, wastewater, stormwater, and solid waste rate proposals developed with consultants after presentations beginning in July, emphasizing gradual increases rather than immediate rate adjustments. - Water: Water/Irrigation Manager Mike Shane answered questions on rates and water rights. The adopted resolution includes consultant-recommended increases of 6.5% for the first three years and 4.5% for the last two; some water service installation fees had not increased since 2007. Council adopted Resolution R-2024-212 by 7-0. - Wastewater: Wastewater/Stormwater Manager Mike Price detailed a 3% increase for retail customers, a 5.3% pretreatment fee increase (later described as 5.4% for higher-impact users), business strong-waste surcharges, and a 9% increase in connection charges. Discussion covered septic-to-sewer policies and roughly 125 unserved parcels, with $4.9 million secured and a $5 million Bureau of Reclamation grant pending. Council adopted Resolution R-2024-213 by 7-0. - Stormwater: Price presented a 7% annual rate increase through 2028, plus an additional 5% in 2025 to cover the utility tax increase, for a 12% first-year increase; the impact is about $10 in the first year and about $6.50 per year on average for typical single-family residences. Council adopted Resolution R-2024-214 by 5-2, with Berg and Brown dissenting. - Solid waste: Solid Waste/Recycling Manager Trace Bradburn presented the ordinance moving refuse rates from YMC Chapter 4.16 to the Master Fee Schedule, adding a 3% annual rate increase, and establishing bulk refuse collection fees beginning in January. Council passed Ordinance 2024-043 by 7-0. - 2024 budget amendment: Finance Director Viren Mayani presented a first-reading ordinance requesting budget authority for $8,000 in North Front Street parking/business improvement area banners and $500,000 for the MLK Aquatic Center from Parks Capital Fund 331. The council took no action at this reading. - City Manager Update and Other Business: City Manager Vicki Baker reported fires on city property involving people experiencing homelessness; City Attorney Sara Watkins said an ordinance update would be brought to the next meeting to clarify that burning or stoking fires on city property is a misdemeanor. Council Member Matt Brown praised employee Mike Brown for promoting the YakBack notification system. Council Member Danny Herrera invited the community to a December 4 event celebrating the renovated Davis High School auditorium. Council Member Leo Roy requested future discussion of Wiley City sewer needs; a motion to place it on a future agenda passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved Alan Sillence Day proclamation 7-0. - Approved consent agenda 7-0. - Adopted water rate resolution R-2024-212 7-0. - Adopted wastewater resolution R-2024-213 7-0. - Adopted stormwater resolution R-2024-214 5-2 (Berg and Brown no). - Passed solid waste ordinance 2024-043 7-0. - Held first reading of 2024 budget amendment ordinance; no vote. - Approved future agenda discussion of Wiley City sewer service by unanimous vote. - Adjourned to December 10, 2024, at 5:30 p.m.

This special meeting of the Yakima City Council focused on addressing the city's 2025-2026 budget gap, adjusting utility taxes, and establishing a long-term financial sustainability framework. Key actions included increasing the stormwater utility tax from 15% to 20%, directing the 5% increase to all city pool operations, and initiating the formation of an ad hoc budget advisory committee. The council also reached consensus on several administrative measures to balance the 2025 budget, including reducing reserves, capturing salary savings, and cutting non-essential spending. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were presented; all agenda items were discussed individually. Public Comments & Testimony - Jeanna Hernandez, a city resident, requested an opportunity for additional public comment after the budget presentation and discussion. - Luis Lopez, a city resident, spoke about increased suspicious activity in his neighborhood and the poor condition of an alley, asking for police and public works assistance. Discussion Items - 2025-2026 Budget Discussion Options City Manager Vicki Baker, with Finance consultant Mike Bailey and Director of Finance Viren Mayani, presented a long-term financial roadmap and short-term options. The council discussed the structural deficit driven by 82% of general fund spending on public safety, the exhaustion of federal ARPA funds, and the need for community engagement to set priorities. Long-term ideas included a possible public safety levy lid lift, transportation benefit district, impact fees, and regional partnerships. Short-term measures to close an estimated $7.5 million gap for 2025 were proposed. - Stormwater Utility Tax Increase (Ordinance 2024-037) Public Works Director Scott Schafer proposed amending YMC 7.64.040 to raise the stormwater utility tax from 15% to 20%, generating approximately $220,000 per year for the general fund. This would align the rate with other city utilities. The increase would be absorbed by the stormwater fund initially and would not immediately affect ratepayers, though future rate studies could incorporate the higher tax. Motion to approve carried 5-2 (Berg and Brown voting no). - Dedication of 5% Stormwater Tax Increase to Aquatic Center Fund (Ordinance amending YMC 3.85.020) The original ordinance would dedicate the 5% increase exclusively to the new MLK Jr. Park Aquatic Center operations. The council debated whether to restrict funds to MLK pool or expand to all city pools (Lions, Franklin, MLK). Councilmembers noted that $719,000 was already set aside for MLK pool operations for 2-3 years. Motion to pass the ordinance as written failed 5-2 (Berg, Brown, Byers, Glenn, Roy voting no; Herrera and Deccio voting yes). Substitute motion to direct staff to bring back an ordinance covering all city pool operations passed 5-2 (Glenn and Herrera voting no). - Ad Hoc Advisory Budget Committee City Attorney Sara Watkins outlined options for forming a committee. Councilman Brown proposed a seven-member committee with one appointee per council member, serving two-year terms. The committee’s tasks would include reviewing the budget, public engagement, identifying cost savings, and monitoring financial performance. Motion to direct staff to create a resolution formalizing the committee and bring it back by December 10, 2024, passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Reserve Policy Change: Motion passed (7-0) to direct staff to create a resolution reducing the fund balance reserve policy from 16% to 12%. - Administrative Consensus: Council agreed to (1) move bond payoff from Streets to general fund, (2) use CDBG funds for MLK Aquatic Center construction, (3) change policy to budget $2 million in salary savings, (4) reduce professional services by $250,000, (5) eliminate non-essential travel except certifications ($100,000 savings), and (6) reduce police and fire overtime by $500,000 with quarterly monitoring. - Ordinance B (Stormwater Tax Increase): Approved 5-2. Ordinance No. 2024-037. - Ordinance C (Pool Fund Dedication): Failed. Substitute motion to direct staff to draft ordinance covering all city pools passed 5-2. - Budget Advisory Committee: Unanimous motion to prepare a resolution for the December 10 council meeting. - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned at 7:41 p.m. to the next regular meeting on December 3, 2024.

The Yakima City Council held a regular meeting on November 19, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers, with all seven council members present. The meeting included public comment, a proclamation for Small Business Saturday, consent agenda approval, four public hearings, several department items, and council motions regarding future discussions. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from November 4 and 12, 2024, third quarter financial report, October investment report, disbursements for October, project completion for Kissel Park Well Motor Replacement, third quarter claim report, a supplemental agreement for utility areas project, a contract for Pacific Power for the Aquatic Center at MLK Jr. Park, a contract with NEOGOV for payroll/benefits, and a second reading of the 2024 budget amendment ordinance. All passed 7-0. - Items H and I (lease agreements with Makito Aviation, LLC for Fixed Base Operator and Fuel Farm at Yakima Air Terminal) were initially removed from consent but later approved separately 7-0 after presentation by Airport Director Rob Hodgman. The leases cover nearly 188,000 square feet and will bring an FAA Part 145 repair station (MRO) and aircraft refueling station, with annual revenue just under $47,000. Public Comments & Testimony - Joe Daniels, city resident, read a religious passage from Revelation and Psalms. - Norma Haro and Rosalba Mendoza, volunteers from La Casa Hogar citizenship class, introduced the class and expressed interest in learning about local government and voting. - Neil Hauff, a resident of N. 92nd Avenue, spoke about the withdrawn right-of-way vacation petition for Columbia Ridge development. He expressed concerns about transparency, the piecemeal approval of phases, and questioned the integrity of the planning process given the vacation withdrawal. - Reed Pell, representing Mr. and Mrs. Hauff, reiterated concerns about the right-of-way vacation being a condition of earlier phases and argued that approval of Phase 5 should be withheld until the vacation issue is resolved. He noted thousands of dollars spent in attorney fees. Public Hearings - Item 8A – Comprehensive Plan Amendment and Rezone (2300 E. Birch Street): Senior Planner Eric Crowell presented a proposal to change the future land use map from low-density residential to commercial mixed use and rezone to General Commercial (GC) for a 0.43-acre parcel leased by Comprehensive Health Care for a mental health clinic adjacent to Camp Hope. The Planning Commission recommended limiting the change to that parcel. Public comment: James Carmody, representing RWC trucking, expressed future process concerns but did not oppose the amendment/rezone. City Attorney clarified use is not part of this hearing. Council directed staff to prepare legislation approving the amendment and rezone; motion carried 7-0. - Item 8B – Rainier Court Phase 5 Preliminary Plat (406 N. 92nd Avenue): Closed record hearing on a 22-lot subdivision by Columbia Ridge Homes LLC. Staff recommendation was approval. Public testimony: Reed Pell opposed, citing condition precedent involving right-of-way vacation for earlier phases; Jeff Peters of PLSA Engineering supported approval on behalf of developer Justin Hellem. Council affirmed the Planning Commission’s recommendation and adopted the resolution approving the preliminary plat; motion carried 7-0. - Item 8C – Text Amendments to Land Use Appeals Process: City Attorney Sara Watkins proposed amending YMC Titles 14, 15, and 16 to require appeals of Hearing Examiner decisions go directly to Superior Court rather than first to City Council, saving time and money. Public comment: Jeanna Hernandez urged passage. Council approved the ordinance 7-0. - Item 8D – Second Public Hearing on 2025-2026 Preliminary Biennial Budget: Finance Director Viren Mayani presented updated forecasts showing a $6.8 million general fund deficit for 2025 and $8.6 million for 2026, with citywide deficits of $8.4 million and $11.9 million respectively. No public comment was received; no action was taken. Discussion Items - 9A – 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan Process: Community Development Director Bill Preston introduced consultants Elizabeth McNannay and Loren McNeely of Resource Consultants LLC. They outlined the HUD-required process for CDBG and HOME funds, including stakeholder meetings, public forums, and a target council approval by July/August 2025. A video testimonial highlighted home repair benefits. Council discussed spending rates and eligible uses. - 9C – First Reading: Opioid Settlement Revenue Fund: Ordinance to create Fund 155 for opioid settlement money to ensure accountability and avoid inflating the general fund. Approximately $900,000 received so far. No action taken (first reading). - 9D – First Reading: Yakima Police Department Pension Fund: Ordinance to create Fund 613 for LEOFF 1 Police Pension, restricted funds. No action taken (first reading). Key Outcomes - Approved Consent Agenda Items (7-0): As listed above, including minutes, financial reports, disbursements, project completion, claim report, supplemental agreement, Pacific Power contract, NEOGOV contract, and budget amendment. - Approved Makito Aviation Leases (7-0): Resolutions R-2024-205 and R-2024-206. - Approved Comprehensive Plan Amendment and Rezone (7-0): Directed staff to prepare legislation for the 2300 E. Birch Street parcel. - Approved Rainier Court Phase 5 Preliminary Plat (7-0): Resolution R-2024-209. - Approved Text Amendments for Land Use Appeals (7-0): Ordinance 2024-035. - Approved WATPA Grant for Police Grapplers (7-0): Resolution R-2024-210 for three grappler systems at $23,250. - Approved Ambulance Services Ordinance Amendment (7-0): Ordinance 2024-036 modifying exemptions for non-emergency transports. - Set Budget Workshop: November 26, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. at Yakima Convention Center (motion carried unanimously). - Future Agenda Items: Council directed adding discussion of SHB 1406 affordable housing sales tax dollars to a future agenda (motion carried unanimously). Also directed staff to plan a 2025 study session on speed bump policies and application process (motion carried unanimously). - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned at 7:26 p.m. to next special meeting on November 26, 2024.

The Yakima City Council met in a study session on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:06 p.m. in Council Chambers at City Hall, 129 N 2nd Street, Yakima, Washington. The meeting was conducted in person and remotely. The agenda included public comment, a Yakima Health District presentation on the Harm Reduction Program, a Yakima Police Department presentation on 2024 drug trends, and discussion and action on Main Street tax credit funding for downtown lighting. The Council approved one resolution, R-2024-202, on a 7-0 vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Carina Cuevas and Yanilett Posos, Heritage University nursing students, expressed support for the Harm Reduction Program. Posos called the program necessary and life-changing and said supporting it is a choice for compassion over stigma. Cuevas described harm reduction as a public health strategy that meets people where they are, reduces overdose risks, and helps people engage with health care and recovery. Presentation: Yakima Health District - Harm Reduction Program - Presenters: Executive Director Andre Fresco, Health Officer Dr. Neil Barg, and Disease Control Director Melissa Sixberry. The program began in 1993 and includes a one-for-one syringe exchange, naloxone/Narcan distribution, STI testing and treatment, wound care, vaccines, hygiene supplies, and referrals for housing, treatment, and health care. - Key statistics cited: more than 3,200 doses of Narcan distributed this year between the Yakima and Toppenish sites; more than 500 overdose reversals in Yakima this year; syringe exchange declined from about 300,000 to about 70,000 per year; 40 hepatitis A vaccines administered during a past outbreak; 54 referrals at the Yakima site and 40 scheduled at the Toppenish site since March, with 11 entering treatment and one known to have completed treatment; and Yakima County has the lowest mean HIV viral load in Washington state. - Presenters said the program is funded with state dollars, not city or county dollars, and costs roughly $60,000-$70,000. They said the one-for-one exchange keeps dirty needles off streets, and that removing the program would increase discarded needles, disease spread, and hospital costs. - Councilmember Berg noted conflicting figures from a prior meeting: she recalled 54 referrals and roughly $54,000 in annual state funding. Presenters clarified that 54 was the Yakima referral number, 40 was the Toppenish number, and funding comes from multiple grants, including a Department of Ecology grant. - Councilmembers asked about success metrics, syringe tracking, liability, and participant information. Councilmember Herrera said he was totally in favor of the program. Councilmember Brown described encountering people using metal detectors to pick up needles at Little League fields and said constituents ask how to stop it, but also praised the decline from 300,000 to 70,000 syringes. The Council did not take action on the program. Presentation: Yakima Police Department - Drug Trends in Yakima 2024 - Detective Erik Horbatko, a 21-year law enforcement veteran assigned to a drug task force, presented on fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine. - Fentanyl: appeared in Yakima in fall 2017 as counterfeit M/30 oxycodone pills initially costing $25-$30 each with users taking about one pill a day; now users take 25-30 pills a day at 75 cents to $1 per pill. Powder fentanyl is increasingly present and sells for about $100 per gram. - Methamphetamine: prices have dropped from $8,000-$10,000 per pound to about $1,000-$1,200 per pound. Cocaine: prices have fallen to about $17,000 per kilogram, with increasing use among 16-to-24-year-olds. - Horbatko said street heroin has largely disappeared, needles are rarely encountered, and most use now involves smoking drugs on foil. He described controlled substance homicide investigations and said his unit is self-funded through seized assets. - Councilmembers expressed strong support for enforcement. One councilmember said 90% of the city's homelessness and crime relates to drugs, and that he was 100% in favor of helping enforcement succeed. Horbatko called for stiffer penalties and said repeat traffickers are not being held accountable by judges. No formal action was taken. Discussion and Action: Main Street Tax Credit and Downtown Association of Yakima - City Manager Vicki Baker said the city had access to an additional $120,000 Main Street tax credit, with a November 15 application deadline, requiring a scope of work and an agreement with the Downtown Association of Yakima (DAY). - DAY Executive Director Curt Wilson said the funds would be used for downtown lighting to enhance the area and improve public safety through CPTED (crime prevention through environmental design). Potential work includes lighting assessments, alley and Yakima Avenue lighting, tree lighting, and seasonal lighting, possibly in a phased approach from First to Fifth Street, with attention to maintenance and tamper-resistant electrical boxes. - City Attorney Sara Watkins explained that the amendment extends the existing Main Street tax credit contract through the end of 2025 or until the funds are expended, whichever is later, with all other terms unchanged. - Councilmember Deccio moved and Councilmember Brown seconded to accept the amendment. The motion carried 7-0 by roll call, adopting Resolution R-2024-202. Key Outcomes - The Council received information on the Harm Reduction Program and Yakima drug trends; no action was taken on either presentation. - The Council approved Resolution R-2024-202, amending the Yakima Downtown Development and Promotion Agreement, City Contract No. 2024-163, on a 7-0 vote. - The meeting adjourned at 7:06 p.m. The next regular City Council meeting was scheduled for November 19, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers.

The Yakima City Council held a regular meeting on November 4, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included public hearings on land use amendments, property tax levies, and the preliminary biennial budget, along with significant discussion on revenue options to address projected deficits. Key actions included approving property tax ordinances, directing staff to explore a public safety levy, and initiating charter amendments. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from October 15, 22, and 29, 2024 meetings. - Set November 19, 2024, for a public hearing on the 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan. - Authorized contracts: Knobel's Electric Inc. for S 3rd Ave & Division St Signalization Project (R-2024-195), Total Site Services LLC for Systemic Pedestrian Safety Improvements (R-2024-196). - Interagency Agreement with WSDOT for Field Survey Collection (R-2024-197). - Interlocal Agreement with City of Union Gap for stormwater lab services (R-2024-198). - Authorized City Manager to execute 2024 HOME and CDBG grant contracts with HUD (R-2024-199). - Agreement with Washington Traffic Safety Commission for a dedicated DUI officer position (R-2024-200). - Adopted Yakima Transit's 2024-2029 Transit Development Plan and 2023 Annual Report (R-2024-201). All consent items were approved by a 7-0 roll call vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Valeria Delgado-Aceves (White Swan resident) expressed strong support for the Harm Reduction Program, citing benefits including reduced overdose deaths, lower healthcare costs, and fewer discarded needles. She noted participants are five times more likely to stop injecting drugs. - Judith Ramos (Sunnyside, nursing student at Heritage University) supported funding a dedicated DUI officer position, highlighting that 63% of fatal crashes in the area in 2022 involved impaired drivers. She emphasized the strain on emergency healthcare and the importance of bilingual outreach. - Veronica Palomares (Yakima resident, nursing student) also supported the DUI officer position, citing 353 DUI arrests in 2021 and the recent Halloween night fatal crash in Terrace Heights. - Aubrie Cheatham (nursing student) spoke in favor of specialized DUI enforcement, arguing it would improve efficiency, conviction rates, and deterrence. Discussion Items 1. Small Business Saturday Proclamation – Approved unanimously. 2. Public Hearings on Comprehensive Plan Amendments and Rezones: - CPA001-24 and RZ001-24 (2000 block of Viola Ave/Simpson Ln): Changed future land use from residential to industrial, rezoned to light industrial. Planning Commission recommended approval; Council approved 7-0 to prepare ordinance. - CPA002-24 and RZ002-24 (7500 W Nob Hill Blvd): Changed portion of parcel from commercial mixed-use to community mixed-use, rezoned accordingly. Approved 7-0. - CPA003-24 and RZ003-24 (8603 & 8604 Ahtanum Rd): Changed from low-density residential to community mixed-use, rezoned to local business. Approved 7-0. 3. Property Tax Levies (Ad Valorem) – Two ordinances passed (7-0): - Ordinance 2024-032: Declared intent to increase 2025 regular levy up to 101% plus new construction. - Ordinance 2024-033: Fixed the levy amount for 2025 budget. Deanna Gregory (Pacifica Law Group) explained the importance of the levy for bond obligations and city operations. Council discussed the critical nature of the levy to avoid a $30 million deficit. 4. First Public Hearing on 2025-2026 Preliminary Biennial Budget – Finance Director Viren Mayani presented a forecast showing a $6.8 million deficit in 2025 and $8.6 million in 2026, with reserves dropping to 11.5% in 2025 and 0.5% in 2026 after adjustments. No action taken. 5. Draft 2025 State and Federal Legislative Priorities – Adopted unanimously after discussion. Priorities are categorized as actively pursue, support, and monitor. 6. Ordinance Amending 2024 Budget (First Reading) – Budget-neutral adjustments and reserve draws for various funds; no action required. 7. 2025-2026 Budget Discussion – Extensive review of revenue options: - Council passed four motions: Motion 1 (Brown/Deccio): Direct staff to explore and develop options for a public safety levy in coordination with police and fire, to be brought back for discussion. (7-0) Motion 2 (Deccio/Glenn): Direct staff to prepare charter amendment language to remove the Charter-directed CPI inflator and other amendments for a study session. (7-0) Motion 3 (Deccio/Byers): Direct staff to bring an ordinance for a 5% in-lieu increase for stormwater fees (from 15% to 20%). Passed 4-3 (Brown, Glenn, Berg dissenting). Motion 4 (Berg/Deccio): Direct staff to bring an ordinance related to impact fees comparable to Union Gap. Passed 5-2 (Brown and Glenn dissenting). Key Outcomes - Approved property tax levies for 2025 (Ordinances 2024-032 and 2024-033, 7-0 each). - Directed staff to explore public safety levy options for potential ballot measure (7-0). - Directed staff to prepare charter amendment to remove CPI inflator from streets and parks funding (7-0). - Directed staff to prepare ordinance for stormwater in-lieu tax increase to 20% (4-3). - Directed staff to prepare impact fee ordinance modeled after Union Gap (5-2). - Approved 2025 State and Federal Legislative Priorities (7-0). - Approved all three comprehensive plan amendments and rezones (each 7-0). - Adopted consent agenda including multiple contracts and agreements (7-0). The meeting adjourned at 8:49 p.m., with the next study session scheduled for November 12, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

The Yakima City Council held a study session on October 29, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:24 p.m. to review the proposed 2025-2026 biennial priority-based budget. Presentations covered Public Works Administration, REET 1 & 2, Streets and Traffic, and Parks and Recreation. The session concluded with a budget wrap-up discussion on revenue options and next steps. Public Comments & Testimony - Lucia Cuevas Ramos, a Heritage University student and Yakima resident, spoke against potential budget cuts to the Parks and Recreation Division. She emphasized the public health importance of parks, citing CDC and National Recreation and Park Association research, and urged the council to consider the benefits of parks for mental and physical well-being. Discussion Items - Public Works Administration Budget Presentation: Director Scott Schafer presented an overview of the division's administrative services, safety/training program, and building maintenance. He highlighted accomplishments (e.g., CityWorks asset management software, roof replacements, City Hall elevator replacement) and requested a new Deputy Public Works Director position, funded primarily through enterprise funds (less than 10% from general fund). The proposed budget is $1.86 million for 2025 and $1.94 million for 2026. - REET 1 & 2 Budget Presentation: Schafer explained the Real Estate Excise Tax (REET) program, noting that REET 1 funds facilities and REET 2 funds materials for streets and traffic projects. He reported declining REET revenues (approximately $400,000 below projections in recent years). The 2025 budget is $2.35 million for REET 1 and $3.4 million for REET 2. Projects include contributions to the YMCA Aquatic Center capital reserve fund ($100,000 per year starting in 2025) and traffic signal upgrades. - Streets and Traffic Budget Presentation: Schafer outlined the division's operations, including snow and ice control, street maintenance, and traffic signals. He noted six vacancies in the 17 street maintenance specialist positions, impacting chip sealing and snow removal. The 2025 budget is $7.0 million, increasing to $7.3 million in 2026. Accomplishments included chip sealing, grind and overlay projects, and traffic signal installations. Future goals include expanding chip sealing operations and upgrading 15 more traffic signals to 12-inch LEDs. - Parks and Recreation Budget Presentation: Manager Ken Wilkinson presented an extensive overview of parks and recreation programs, including Washington Fruit Community Center, Fisher Park Golf Course, Lions Pool, Franklin Pool, Harman Center, youth and adult sports, park maintenance, and Tahoma Cemetery. The 2025 budget is $6.7 million (up from $6.5 million in 2024) with 53.28 FTEs. The cemetery budget is $448,000. Key requests include $200,000 for parks capital improvements and an eight-month aquatic specialist for the new Aquatic Center at MLK Jr. Park (opening June 2025). Wilkinson highlighted participation numbers (e.g., 17,642 rounds of golf, 54,500 hours at Washington Fruit Community Center, over 9,000 volunteer hours at Harman Center). - Budget Wrap-Up Questions and Recommendations: City Manager Vicki Baker thanked staff and council, and outlined plans for community engagement on priorities. Finance consultant Mike Bailey explained the priority-based budgeting process, emphasizing the need for a structured approach to balancing the budget. Director of Finance and Budget Viren Mayani summarized the projected general fund deficit (approximately $7.2 million for 2025, expected to increase to $9.5 million) and presented a list of revenue options, including: rolling engineering fees into grants, maximizing cost allocation plans, implementing technology user fees, updating business license fees, establishing an in-lieu tax, reviewing the Transportation Benefit District (TBD) and sales tax, collecting impact fees, increasing sales tax restricted to public safety, adding an EMS levy, creating a fire district or metropolitan parks district, implementing levy lid lifts, and adjusting CPI language in the city charter. Council members discussed the need for community education and a comprehensive approach. Key Outcomes - Council requested that staff provide detailed revenue-generating amounts for each of the identified revenue options, presented in a digestible format for the next meeting. - Staff will bring back a spreadsheet showing all programs by priority level (1-4) and the impact on the general fund reserve (currently 16.7%, with a goal of 25%). - The council discussed the need to balance the budget without solely relying on reserves and to consider long-term structural fixes. - The meeting adjourned at 8:24 p.m. with a motion to adjourn to the next regular city council meeting on November 4, 2024, at 5:30 p.m.

Note: The agenda, minutes, and transcript indicate the meeting occurred on October 22, 2024, but per instruction the date is given as October 25, 2024. This summary uses the provided date but notes the discrepancy. The Yakima City Council held a study session on October 25, 2024, beginning with a 30-minute executive session on collective bargaining at 4:30 p.m., followed by the public study session at 5:00 p.m. The meeting covered a domestic water rate and fee study, a resolution authorizing an interlocal agreement with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission for traffic safety emphasis patrols, and a comprehensive review of the proposed 2025-2026 biennial priority-based budget across all city departments. No public comments were received. The meeting adjourned at 9:44 p.m. after the budget presentations. Consent Calendar - None. The resolution on traffic safety patrols was adopted via roll call vote and is detailed under Key Outcomes. Public Comments & Testimony - None. No members of the public provided comment in person or online. Discussion Items Domestic Water Rate and Fee Study - Presentation: Tage Aaker of FCS Group presented a five-year rate study (2025-2029) for the domestic water utility. The study recommended a 6.5% annual rate increase for 2025-2027 and a 4.5% increase for 2028-2029 to cover operating costs, debt service, and capital programs. A typical single-family customer’s monthly bill would increase from $28 to approximately $30 in 2025. - Connection Charges: The study proposed updating the domestic water connection charges, which had not changed since 2012. The maximum defensible charge for a three-quarter-inch meter was calculated at $2,891, with options to phase in over time. Installation fees for new services were also significantly under-recovering actual costs, with a proposed phase-in from $1,300 to $5,000 by 2029. - Council Discussion: Councilmembers questioned the fairness of rates compared to private utilities and the impact on ratepayers. Director Scott Schafer noted that the city’s utility pays an in-lieu-of tax similar to private utilities. No action was taken on the rate proposals; they are slated for future decision. Resolution for Traffic Safety Emphasis Patrols - Presentation: Sergeant Scott Grant from the Yakima Police Department briefed the Council on Resolution R-2024-194, authorizing an interlocal agreement with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission for $113,000 in funding for overtime on high-visibility emphasis patrols (e.g., DUI, seatbelt enforcement). The funds cover regional patrols, not solely Yakima. - Council Position: Councilmember Glenn voted no, stating the amount was too small to justify administrative overhead. Other members supported the resolution to accept available funds. 2025-2026 Biennial Priority-Based Budget Review The Council heard presentations from department heads outlining their 2025-2026 proposed budgets. Key points from each: - City Administration (City Manager Vicki Baker): Covered City Council stipends, travel, AWC membership ($14,000), economic development (including $50,000 for YCDA, fireworks at $15,000, federal lobbying at $60,000 annually), City Clerk’s office (public records, elections, LEOFF 1 pensions), and Information Technology (cybersecurity, GIS, application development). IT has not added staff in 19 years despite increased demands; a budget request for server warranties ($45,000) was noted as a cost-saving measure. - Human Resources (Connie Mendoza): The HR budget covers mandated programs: personnel administration, payroll ($7.6M monthly), civil service (funded by 0.5% of payroll), self-insured health plan ($15M program), workers’ compensation ($2.8M claims paid), and unemployment compensation. A request for a payroll analyst was made to create redundancy. - Community Relations (Randy Beehler): The office operates two TV channels and manages communications, primarily funded by cable franchise fees and PEG fees which are declining. No budget increase was requested; the office plans to seek grant funding for outreach and shift to short-form video and podcasts. - Airport (Rob Hodgman): The Yakima Air Terminal faces an $800,000 deficit in 2025 due to expiring grants and reduced revenues. Strategies include seeking a Las Vegas flight, increasing rental car and lease revenues, deferring PFAS foam replacement (unfunded mandate), and pursuing federal grants. Council discussed lease negotiations and the need to balance tenant relations with revenue needs. - Fleet and Facilities (Kerry Jones): Budget covers 660 equipment units (excluding police/fire), three fuel stations, and building maintenance (City Hall, Public Works, etc.). A request to convert a storekeeper position to an administrative assistant was noted. The new transit facility (former Subaru site) will undergo feasibility studies for alternative fuels. - Wastewater/Stormwater (Mike Price): Wastewater rates have not changed in several years; a 3% increase for residential (about $1/month) and 5.3% for commercial was recommended to keep pace with inflation and capital needs. Stormwater division proposes a 7% annual increase (approximately $6/year per residence). Capital projects include $20-25M for activated sludge improvements (potential bonding) and condition-based pipe rehabilitation. - Water/Irrigation (Mike Shane): Water operations budget is $14-14.5M annually. Capital projects focus on aging infrastructure replacement, joint water/sewer projects in unserved areas, and the Nelson diversion pipeline project (Phase 2 funded by $7.6M DOE grant and other sources). A budget request for a temporary water works specialist and a water treatment plant operator position were presented. - Finance (Viren Mayani and Kimberly Dominé): The Finance Division (11 FTEs) manages budget preparation, ACFR, accounts payable, grants ($19.5M federal, $6M state), debt ($48M), investments ($74M), and audits. Purchasing (now 4 FTEs including new manager) handles procurement, insurance compliance, P-card program (270+ cards), and surplus disposition. A budget request for an additional accountant to improve cross-training and redundancy was made. Utility Services (Anabel Chavez) oversees meter reading, billing, customer service, and the enterprise software (CAYENTA). Requests included three ruggedized laptops for field reps and a 10% increase in professional services funding. Key Outcomes - Resolution R-2024-194 (Traffic Safety Patrols): Adopted by a 6-1 roll call vote (Councilmember Glenn voting no). The resolution authorizes the City Manager to execute the interlocal agreement with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission for $113,000 in overtime reimbursement. - Executive Session: The Council held a 30-minute executive session on collective bargaining (RCW 42.30.140(4)(a)), entering at 4:32 p.m. and concluding at 5:00 p.m. - Budget Review: No formal votes were taken on budget items. The presentations were informational to guide future decisions. The next study session is scheduled for October 29, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. to continue budget discussions. - Referrals: Councilmember Brown suggested exploring alternative lobbyists in Olympia. The City Manager will research options. The water and sewer rate proposals, along with connection fees, will be considered as part of the 2025-2026 budget adoption.

The Yakima City Council met on October 15, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included public comment, a public hearing, several department ordinances and resolutions, and the first round of the 2025-2026 Biennial Priority Based Budget review. Key actions included approval of the YWCA right-of-way vacation (with payment of $70,000), a remand of the Columbia Ridge Homes vacation, and passage of ordinances on tourism promotion, parking permits, and shopping cart regulations. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from October 1 and October 8, 2024. - Approved payment of disbursements for September 1-30, 2024. - Accepted 2024 3rd Quarter Treasury Report. - Set public hearing dates: November 4, 2024 for property tax; November 4 and 19, 2024 for the biennial budget; November 19, 2024 for open record hearing on Comp Plan Amendment and Rezone (CPA004-24, RZ004-24) and closed record hearings for Rainier Court Phase 5 preliminary plat and text amendments to Titles 14, 15, 16. - Accepted project completion for HBJCC Roof Replacement (MG Wagner Company Inc.). - Authorized award of Bid 12421 to Solenis LLC for Cationic Polymer Flocculant (R-2024-183). - Authorized agreement with HDR Engineering, Inc. for Nelson Phase 2 Conveyance Improvements (R-2024-184). - Authorized agreement with Apollo, Inc. for Biosolids Dewatering Improvements (R-2024-187). - Authorized Trial Court Improvement Account funds for Municipal Court (R-2024-188). - Ratified probation services agreement with Yakima County (R-2024-189). - Approved agreement with Washington State Department of Revenue for tourism promotion area fees (R-2024-190). - Authorized City Manager to set 2025-2026 Airport Rates and Fees with annual increase to fair market value then 5% (R-2024-191). - Items L and M (grant acceptance for Growth Management Act Periodic Update and Climate Resilience Element) were removed from consent, then approved separately by a 7-0 vote (R-2024-185 and R-2024-186). Public Comments & Testimony - Margaret Filkins (City resident) expressed concerns about the parking permit renewal process, including waiting lists, auto-renewal issues, and impacts on downtown businesses. - John Baule (City resident) echoed concerns about the renewal process, noting his permit expired on October 7 and he could not renew due to date restrictions. - Marchal Tyler (City resident) spoke against the N. 92nd Avenue right-of-way vacation proposal, arguing that an underlying private driveway predates the public easement and that the vacation constitutes eminent domain and demolition of a private asset. - Cheri Kilty (YWCA representative) spoke in favor of the YWCA right-of-way vacation and asked the Council to waive or reduce the $70,000 appraised value fee, citing prior payment by the hospital and the public benefit of affordable housing. - James Carmody (Attorney for YWCA) argued for a waiver or reduction, noting the $100,000 fee paid by Providence in 1997, the city's freedom from maintenance for 27 years, and statutory authority under RCW 35.84.015 for no-cost transfers for affordable housing. Discussion Items - Public Hearing – YWCA Right-of-Way Vacation (S. 10th Ave): The hearing examiner recommended approval of the vacation with a $70,000 payment. After public testimony, the Council discussed the fee. A motion to waive all charges failed 4-3 (Berg, Brown, Byers, Roy no; Deccio, Glenn, Herrera yes). A subsequent motion to approve the vacation with the $70,000 fee passed 6-1 (Glenn no). Ordinance 2024-028 adopted. - Department Item A – Columbia Ridge Homes Right-of-Way Vacation (N. 92nd Ave): A motion to approve the ordinance as presented failed 4-3 (Berg, Brown, Herrera, Roy no; Byers, Deccio, Glenn yes). Amid discussion, the Council voted to remand the vacation back to the Hearing Examiner for additional testimony on public benefit, consistency with city plans, zoning, and sole access. The amended motion passed 7-0. - Department Item B – Tourism Promotion Area Ordinance: The Council adopted Ordinance 2024-029, amending Chapter 5.99 to incorporate House Bill 2137 changes, including exemptions for medical housing and inclusion of recreational vehicles and temporary lodging. Passed 7-0. - Department Item C – Long-term Parking Permits: The Council passed Ordinance 2024-030, increasing the percentage of permits from 40% to 60% of total available stalls, allowing permit holders to park in any city lot. Passed 7-0. - Department Item D – Shopping Cart Regulations: Ordinance 2024-031 amended Section 6.27, making it a civil infraction ($50 fine) to operate or possess a shopping cart on public rights-of-way or in parks, and allowing immediate impoundment. A motion to waive the $115 impoundment fee for businesses failed for lack of a second. The ordinance passed 6-1 (Glenn no). - Department Item E – Shopping Cart Fee Schedule: Resolution R-2024-192 updated the Master Fee Schedule to include the $50 infraction penalty. Passed 7-0. - Department Item F – Opioid Settlement Funds for Community Court Case Manager: Resolution R-2024-193 authorized dedicating opioid settlement money to fund a 75% time case manager for five years (with option to extend five more) for the Municipal Community Court diversion program. Passed 7-0. - Budget Review Session (Item 10): The Council heard presentations from Civil Division (Legal), Transit, Engineering/Office of Neighborhood Services, Planning, Code Administration, and Fire Department (including SunCom). No votes were taken; the presentations provided transparency for upcoming budget decisions. Key Outcomes - YWCA Right-of-Way Vacation: Approved with $70,000 payment (Ordinance 2024-028, vote 6-1). - Columbia Ridge Homes Vacation: Remanded to Hearing Examiner for additional testimony (vote 7-0). - Tourism Promotion Area Ordinance: Adopted (Ordinance 2024-029, 7-0). - Long-term Parking Permits: Increased to 60% of total stalls (Ordinance 2024-030, 7-0). - Shopping Cart Regulations: New infraction and impoundment rules (Ordinance 2024-031, 6-1). - Shopping Cart Fee Schedule: Adopted (R-2024-192, 7-0). - Opioid Settlement Case Manager: Approved for five years (R-2024-193, 7-0). - Consent Agenda: Approved with items L and M separately approved (all 7-0). - Next Meeting: City Council study session on October 22, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.