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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR SESSION
OF THE LONGVIEW CITY COUNCIL
HELD THURSDAY, AUGUST 23, 2001
1. CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Bergquist.
2. INVOCATION/FLAG SALUTE
The invocation was pronounced by Pastor Gene Anglin, Columbia Heights Baptist Church.
Councilman McCrady led the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance.
3. ROLL CALL
Present: Mayor Karen Bergquist
Councilman Kurt Anagostou
Councilman Ron DiRe-Day
Councilman Don Jensen
Councilwoman Ramona Leber
Councilman Mark McCrady
Councilwoman Susan Stockard
City Manager Ed Ivey
City Attorney Dave C. Spencer
Deputy City Clerk Ann Davis
City Staff Present
Richard Bemm, Director of Parks & Recreation; Bob Burgreen, Police Chief; Jeff Cameron,
Assistant Public Works Director; Bob Gregory, Assistant City Manager/Director of Public
Works; Judy Jones, Information Services Director; Kurt Sacha, Finance Director; Vicki Taylor,
Human Resources Director; Lane Wintermute, Fire Chief; Neal Johnson, Programmer/Analyst;
Linda Swanson, Senior Human Resources Analyst; and Narcisa Barbo, Finance Dept. Aide.
4. APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MINUTES
There was no Council meeting held on August 9, 2001, due to lack of quorum.
On a motion duly made and passed, the reading of the minutes of the regular Council
meeting held July 26, 2001, copies of which had been submitted to the Mayor and members
of the City Council, was waived and the minutes were approved as if read.
5. CHANGES/REVISIONS TO THE AGENDA
Several changes were suggested, but no changes were actually made to the agenda.
6. PRESENTATIONS & AWARDS
A. Proclamation: Payroll Week.
Praising payroll professionals for the detailed work they do -- paying wages; reporting worker
earnings; withholding, reporting and depositing federal taxes; paying into unemployment
City Council Minutes
August 23, 2001
Page 2
programs; assisting with child support enforcement; and educating the business community
regarding payroll tax withholding systems -- Mayor Bergquist declared the week of September 2
through September 8, 2001, National Payroll Week in the City of Longview. This proclamation
had been promoted by the American Payroll Association to increase public awareness of the
importance of the work performed by payroll professionals.
Senior Human Resources Analyst Linda Swanson accepted the proclamation, and noted that city
employees would get paid on September 5 (on schedule).
7. CONSTITUENTS' COMMENTS
A. Cruising/Disruptive Kids on 15th Avenue.
Janice Beebe, 1036 16th Avenue, again asked Council to do something about the large number of
youths who cruise, yell, honk, race, squeal tires, run red lights, and generally loiter -- creating a
great deal of noise and leaving behind a lot of garbage. Mrs. Beebe stated the cruising and
loitering starts by 10:00 p.m. every night and lasts until 2:00 a.m. Having access to a police
scanner, she is aware that sometimes the youths carry bats and knives. Some of these kids may
be dangerous in addition to being a noisy nuisance.
The kids quiet down and disperse when police officers are in the area. As soon as the officers
leave, the kids resume their activities. She has been told that 75% of the kids are from out of
town because their towns do not allow cruising. Longview should not allow this activity either.
She acknowledged that lack of alternate activities is a problem; however, 15th Avenue is not a
playground.
Mrs. Beebe stated that the area is posted against cruising; why is the cruising ordinance not being
enforced? She would like to see LPD enforce the cruising laws. She has spoken with Capt.
Munger, who advised her that he could not enforce the law the way it is written. She suggested
the cruising ordinance should be worded so it could be enforced, and also suggested that “no
parking” on 15th Avenue and “no loitering” laws be enacted to keep the kids from gathering on
the streets and sidewalks.
She concluded by stating that she and her neighbors are prepared to continue pushing Council
until some kind of result is achieved. Other communities have put a stop to cruising; why can’t
Longview?
Councilman McCrady related that the cruising ordinance is as tightly written as possible; the
ACLU has already complained about it. Traffic in the area must be impeded by the cruising
activity to a certain extent before the ordinance can be enforced. If the ordinance is tightened
further, the City will be in court defending itself from charges that it is denying citizens their civil
rights.
Police Chief Bob Burgreen advised that he and his staff have been inspecting and studying the
situation. The problem on the streets/sidewalks is somewhat different than before. Young
people are parking on the street and congregating in parking lots and on sidewalks. Unless the
parking lots are posted, the youths are not doing anything illegal. The Chief has asked his
City Council Minutes
August 23, 2001
Page 3
officers to study the situation and come up with some potential solutions to remedy these
problems. Chief Burgreen will review those solutions with the City Manager prior to bringing
them to Council. He also pointed out that the problem is somewhat seasonal; as soon as the rain
begins in earnest, the streets will be cleared of loiterers. He does not have adequate staff to
patrol the area all night.
B. Complaint about Inability to Contact Chief Burgreen.
Rod Madison, 1703 33rd, stated that his problem is just the opposite: his daughter is on the Teen
Council, maintains a 3.8 GPA, and is in by 10:00 p.m. every evening. He felt that lots of the
problems with kids today is their parents.
Mr. Madison stated that he came to Council tonight because he had been frustrated in his attempt
to speak with Chief Burgreen; his intent was to lodge a complaint about a Longview police
officer who had ticketed his daughter. He went to the Police Station, but the Chief was not
available. The captains were not available. He said that, ultimately, there was no one in a
position of authority available to listen to him.
City Manager Ivey explained that management attempts to make itself available to citizens;
however, in recent weeks Police management have been very involved in labor negotiations.
Chief Burgreen stated he would meet with Mr. Madison right now, out in the hallway, to discuss
his complaint.
C. Additional Input on Cruising/Noise on 15th Avenue.
Nancy Carpenter, who works for Village Cleaners at 1015 15th Avenue, also complained about
the young people who congregate on 15th Avenue. She said her employer’s lot is both posted
against after-hour parking and chained up to prevent entry. The young people have cut their
chains and locks. The loiterers leave trash and remove and destroy anything that can be removed
from their building. She asked Council to look for a solution to this problem.
Mayor Bergquist commented that it appears Council will need to revisit the cruising/loitering
situation.
Jamie McCord, Teen Council member and resident of 17th Avenue, said she lives two blocks
away, and she can still hear the activity on 15th. She stated these young people are bored and
have nothing to do. Finding alternate late-night activities for teens is crucial.
8. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Vacation Request: Portion of 17th Avenue, Peace Health Cancer Center.
Peace Health has petitioned to vacate a portion of 17th Avenue right-of-way adjacent to St. John
Hospital, north of Kessler Boulevard/Douglas Street. City Manager Ivey asked Assistant
Director of Public Works Jeff Cameron to give some background information.
Mr. Cameron presented an overhead which showed the area of the proposed street vacation in
blue. The purpose of this vacation is to construct a canopy over the entrance to Peace Health’s
City Council Minutes
August 23, 2001
Page 4
new cancer facility. Peace Health must relocate water and sewer lines and pay the required fee
before an ordinance will be enacted.
In accordance with the published and posted notices, the Mayor declared the hearing open at 7:37
p.m. to hear public comment with regard to the above-described proposed street vacation.
There being no comments, either written or oral, the Mayor declared the hearing closed.
On a motion made by Councilman McCrady, seconded by Councilman Anagnostou, and
passed by a vote of 7 "Aye" votes by Mayor Bergquist and Councilmembers Anagnostou,
DiRe-Day, Jensen, Leber, McCrady and Stockard, and no "Nay" votes, the Council
accepted the petition of Peace Health to vacate a portion of 17th Avenue, subject to the
conditions recommended by staff, and to direct the City Attorney to return with an
Ordinance reflecting this vacation.
Councilman Jensen stated it was interesting to note that, while walking in the area, he had
noticed the canopy had already been erected. A representative from Peace Health addressed
Council and stated that they had been working closely with Sandy Meyers, Officer Engineer, on
this project. They had gone ahead and built the canopy in order to make best use of construction
economics, hoping and praying that the Council would approve this request.
9. BOARD & COMMISSION RECOMMENDATIONS - None.
10. ORDINANCES & RESOLUTIONS
A. Ordinance No. 2806, Accepting the Gift of a Carved Wooden Squirrel from the Longview
Sandbagger’s Club.
An Ordinance accepting a gift of a carved wooden squirrel from The Longview Sandbagger’s
Club, was introduced and read by title only.
Councilman McCrady moved adoption of the foregoing ordinance, which motion was
seconded by Councilman Anagnostou.
The Sandbagger delegation was dressed in their signature red-and-white striped jackets.
Representing the service group, Joseph Daggy read a declaration that the Sandbaggers had
prepared which donated the new squirrel statue to the City and dedicated it in memory of the late
Sandbagger, Amos J. Peters, whose concern for these small mammals is legendary. Mr. Daggy
presented the declaration document to Mayor Bergquist with the request that Councilmembers all
sign the document accepting the gift. He assured Councilmembers that it was unnecessary to
read the fine print on the document and repeatedly asked they not bother to do so.
Mayor Bergquist read the small print aloud, which stated that each person who signed the
document would be personally liable for the payment of in excess of $8,000, among other things.
City Attorney Dave C. Spencer recommended Council not sign the document. After careful
consideration, Council declined to sign the declaration.
City Council Minutes
August 23, 2001
Page 5
Tim South, another Sandbagger present, said that the statue is not an exact replica of the existing
squirrel; it is thinner and more upright. It will also be stained gray and, allegedly, will be better
protected to withstand the elements. Mr. South added that a formal dedication ceremony will
occur at a later date, and Council will be invited to attend that function.
Upon a vote duly held and recorded with 6 "Aye" votes by Mayor Bergquist and
Councilmembers DiRe-Day, Jensen, Leber, McCrady and Stockard, the Mayor declared
the ordinance adopted and passed, affixed her signature of approval thereon and the
ordinance was assigned the No. 2806. Councilman Anagnostou (a fellow Sandbagger)
jokingly voted “no.” [This was subsequently clarified with the Deputy City Clerk.]
A. Ordinance No. 2808, Establishing an Arts Commission.
An Ordinance relating to public visual art, creating a “Longview Visual Arts Commission,” and
adding a new chapter to the Longview Municipal Code to be designated as Chapter 2.28. The
purpose of this Ordinance is to establish standards for the placement and display of works of
visual art in public buildings, in public parks and other public places in the city; to provide for
the acquisition, ownership and maintenance of such works of visual art, and to create an
independent advisory group known as the “Longview Visual Arts Commission” to advise and
make recommendations to the City Council and to the city administration. The foregoing
ordinance was introduced and read by title only.
Councilman McCrady moved adoption of the foregoing ordinance which motion was
seconded by Councilman Jensen.
Councilman Anagnostou thanked staff for bringing this proposal back to Council in such a timely
fashion.
Councilwoman Stockard asked several questions in order to clarify her understanding of the
function of the commission created. Director of Parks & Recreation Rich Bemm remarked that
the banners placed Downtown by the Longview Downtowners and the brick plaza at Lake
Sacajawea would not meet the definition of “visual art.” The Visual Arts Commission will make
recommendations to the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board, but is independent from that Board.
The Parks & Recreation Advisory Board would make a final decision on the appropriateness of
the placement of the art, not the artwork itself.
The Visual Arts Commission could not enact any changes in the way it operates. As with all
commissions created by ordinance, should any “tweaking” need to be done, Council would have
to amend the ordinance.
Pieces of artwork already in the planning stages (i.e., Sacajawea statue) would receive
grandfather status.
During discussion, it was noted that that all City-owned facilities are subject to the provisions of
this ordinance, including the Columbia Theatre. Only temporary, loaned-art displays at the
Library are excluded from review; any placement of permanent artwork at the facility is subject
to review by the Visual Arts Commission.
City Council Minutes
August 23, 2001
Page 6
Upon a vote duly held and recorded with 7 "Aye" votes by Mayor Bergquist and
Councilmembers Anagnostou, DiRe-Day, Jensen, Leber, McCrady and Stockard, and no
"Nay" votes, the Mayor declared the ordinance adopted and passed, affixed her signature
of approval thereon and the ordinance was assigned the No. 2808.
Rosemary Powelson, 932 Clark Creek Road, indicated her desire to serve on this commission.
She was advised to contact the Executive Office for an application to serve on various Boards
and Commissions.
A. Ordinance No. 2809, Providing for the Vacation of an Unimproved Street Right-of-Way.
An Ordinance vacating an unimproved street right-of-way particularly described hereinafter,
located in the City of Longview, Cowlitz County, Washington, was introduced and read by title
only.
City Attorney Dave Spencer noted that this vacation was approved by Council approximately two
years ago. This is being concluded now because the petitioner has finally met the last condition
required for the vacation, which is remitting the required sum of money. These funds are
deposited into the Arterial Street Fund.
Councilwoman Leber moved adoption of the foregoing ordinance, which motion was
seconded by Councilwoman Stockard, and on a vote duly held and recorded with 6 "Aye"
votes by Mayor Bergquist and Councilmembers Anagnostou, DiRe-Day, Jensen, Leber,
and Stockard, and no "Nay" votes, the Mayor declared the ordinance adopted and passed,
affixed her signature of approval thereon and the ordinance was assigned the No. 2809.
[Councilman McCrady was out of the room when the vote was taken.]
A. Ordinance No. 2810, Establishing a Salary Commission to set Salaries of City Council
Members and the Mayor, and Creating a new Chapter in the Longview Municipal Code.
An Ordinance enacting a new chapter in the Longview Municipal Code to be designated as
chapter 2.02, establishing the Longview Citizens’ Commission on Salaries for Elected Officials;
providing for the qualifications of the members thereof, the duties of such commission, and
providing that said commission shall determine and establish salaries for members of the City
Council and for the Mayor of the City of Longview. This Ordinance also provides for the filing
of a referendum petition within 30 days of the effective date of any salary increase or decrease.
The foregoing ordinance was introduced and read by title only.
Councilman Jensen moved adoption of the foregoing ordinance, which motion was
seconded by Councilman McCrady.
Councilman Jensen expressed he was in favor of citizens deciding Council’s salaries.
Councilman McCrady added that adoption of this ordinance would meet one of the goals set at
Council retreat.
Noting that the ordinance provides for a referendum procedure, City Attorney Spencer stated that
this provision is required by law. He advised, however, that he thought the likelihood of such a
City Council Minutes
August 23, 2001
Page 7
referendum would be remote; an initiative would require a substantial number of signatures be
gathered in a short period of time.
There was discussion on the timeline for putting this ordinance into effect. The ordinance would
become effective on September 28 (thirty days after passage and publication -- August 29,
publication date). The public hearing on proposed salary changes would have to take place by
October 30, and final salary information would have to be filed with the City Clerk by November
30. Mr. Spencer advised Mayor Bergquist that she should not name the appointees until the
ordinance is in effect, but that she should be deciding whom she is going to appoint.
The commission cannot decrease salaries of present officeholders. Any decrease in salary would
become effective with a newly-elected or appointed Council position. However, should the
commission recommend a salary increase, that would take effect immediately for the incumbents.
Councilwoman Leber noted that the possibility of an expensive referendum would tend to make
the commission cautious when establishing salary increases. The timeline for future proposed
salary changes would not be so rushed.
Mayor Bergquist asked for citizen input on this proposed ordinance. No one spoke for or against
the measure.
Upon a vote duly held and recorded with 7 "Aye" votes by Mayor Bergquist and
Councilmembers Anagnostou, DiRe-Day, Jensen, Leber, McCrady and Stockard, and no
"Nay" votes, the Mayor declared the ordinance adopted and passed, affixed her signature
of approval thereon and the ordinance was assigned the No. 2810.
Noting that tonight Council has created two new commissions, Mayor Bergquist commented that
the Application form will need to be revised. In addition, Council agreed that these commission
positions should be advertised quickly in order to attract additional interested applicants.
11. MAYOR'S REPORTS
A. Discuss Invitation from the Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts for City
Representation on the Board of Directors.
Mayor Bergquist read a letter from Donald Fuesler inviting Council to include a Councilmember
on the Board of Directors for the Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts.
Councilmembers Anagnostou and McCrady both indicated they were uncomfortable with this
proposition. The City is landlord to the Arts group and to the Longview Housing Authority, who
share space in the Theatre building. Sometimes the City finds itself in the position of having to
act as referee between the two tenants. Councilman McCrady stressed the need to maintain
professional distance, since contract and money issues may come up in the future. City
Councilmembers are forbidden by statute from sitting on the Board governing the Longview
Housing Authority.
The Mayor stated she would convey the gist of this discussion to Dr. Fuesler, and decline the
invitation.
City Council Minutes
August 23, 2001
Page 8
B. QWEST Communications.
Council has been asked by QWEST Communications to write a letter in support of QWEST
entering the long-distance carrier business. QWEST would like to commence providing this
service in the area, but has been precluded by the Washington UTC until they meet 14 conditions
for improvement of service to customers. Assistant City Manager Bob Gregory stated he has
spoken with the QWEST representative, who was unable to be present tonight. Mr. Gregory said
this request is an attempt to garner support for its business expansion. Sending a letter of support
is not required, because the final decision will rest solely with the UTC, but would show
Council’s support for this business expansion.
Council agreed that Mayor Bergquist could sign and send the proposed letter in support of
QWEST’s proposal.
C. Rescheduling August 16, 2001 Workshop.
It was agreed to schedule the Wako City/Undoing Racism/Communications Workshop on
September 20, 2001.
D. Report on Teen Council Activities.
Apologizing to the Teen Council representatives present, Councilman DiRe-Day stated that there
had been a miscommunication about this agenda item: the Teen Council thought they were
scheduled for an update tonight and had spent a considerable amount of time preparing their
presentation. In fact, Councilman DiRe-Day had proposed this agenda item only to seek Council
approval of the Teen Council attending the upcoming NLC Conference in Atlanta. Teen
representatives must be sponsored by a City and travel with a Councilmember from that City.
Eleven Teen Council members have indicated a desire to attend this conference. Councilman
DiRe-Day asked Council to approve only the sponsorship of the attendees; any funding
contribution from the City would be discussed at a later time.
Councilwoman Stockard sought and received authorization from Council last meeting to attend
this Conference. Councilwoman Leber indicated she may attend, and Councilman McCrady
stated he would be interested in attending, if no other Councilmembers who have not yet
attended an NLC conference were planning to go.
Councilman DiRe-Day moved to permit Teen Council members, accompanied by a
Councilmember, to attend the Atlanta Conference. This motion was seconded by
Councilman McCrady. Upon a motion duly held, the motion was unanimously approved.
E. Other topics briefly mentioned:
AWC Executive Director Stan Finkelstein had sent out a letter regarding the
Legislative Committee. City Manager Ivey will continue to attend these meetings.
Councilman DiRe-Day also has made plans to attend.
USA Conference of Mayors request Council support on an issue
City Council Minutes
August 23, 2001
Page 9
Request from a national association to support high-speed rail travel. This letter
sought not only support for the concept but asked for active support. Council
concurred that this request should be forwarded to Rosemary Siipola,
Transportation Coordinator for Cowlitz-Wahkiakum Council of Governments, for
comment from the region.
Consider collection of tax on Internet and remote sales
Invitation from Port Longview to be tour guests on an excursion boat
ARC dinner on Saturday, August 25, 2001
Reminder that AWC Regional roundtable meetings are coming up
E. Council of Governments Meeting. Councilwoman Stockard advised she would not be able to
attend next week’s COG meeting, and hoped alternate Councilman Anagnostou could. If he was
unavailable, she hoped someone would attend since it is very important to have representation at
this meeting.
F. Council Representative on Local Board of Trustees for the new Fire Department Internship
Program.
Councilman McCrady moved to appoint Don Jensen as Council representative on this
Board. The motion was seconded Councilwoman Stockard, and, upon a vote duly held,
unanimously approved.
12. CONSENT CALENDAR
There being no items the Council wished removed from the Consent Calendar, a motion
was duly made and passed approving the items on the Consent Calendar as though acted
on individually.
A. Street Use Requests
The following street use request(s) was/were approved subject to any stipulations specified
during routine review by concerned departments:
1) #01-29, HELP Warehouse Harvest Classic, 10/6/01
B. Board & Commission Minutes
1) Planning Commission Minutes of 8/01/01
C. Liquor License Applications
1) New:
Danielle’s 14th Avenue Grill, 1203 14th Ave.
LMC Group, 1405 17th Avenue
City Council Minutes
August 23, 2001
Page 10
D. Liability Claims
The claim(s) for damages listed below was/were received by the City and have been/are being
researched and/or reviewed by Washington Cities Insurance Authority (WCIA) and claim status
is as noted:
1) New: Dolores Siefert, property damage - $395.34
2) Settled: James Lee, property damage - $170.23
E. Accounts Payable
Based upon the authentication and certification of claims and demands against the city, prepared
and signed by the City’s auditing officer, and in full reliance thereon, it is moved and seconded as
shown in the minutes of this meeting that the following vouchers/warrants are approved for
payment:
First Half August, 2001 A/P Claims $930,255.99 (Check Nos. 234599 - 224891, inclusive)
Second Half August, 2001 A/P Claims $459,333.88 (Check Nos. 234892 - 225238, inclusive)
Second Half July 2001 Payroll $645,117.45 (Check Nos. 175161 - 175382, inclusive,
$424,284.07; and direct deposits, $220,833.38)
First Half August, 2001 Payroll $944,715.06 (Check Nos. 174911 - 175160, inclusive,
$729,435.44; and direct deposits, $215,279.62)
13. CITY MANAGER'S REPORTS
A. Jail Presentation by Jail First Committee and Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police
Chiefs (WASPC).
Cowlitz County Commissioner George Raiter, representing the Jail First Committee, thanked
Council for joining with the Commissioners in support of the tax vote. Mr. Raiter complimented
Council for voting without dissent to support the proposal, and asked for Council support now to
help educate the voting public. He stated that when the correct information is conveyed to
voters, they tend to support the issue. A public meeting is planned for Monday, August 27 at
7:00 p.m., in the Cowlitz PUD public meeting room.
Dennis Weber, 1224 - 22nd Avenue, expressed his pleasure to be able to work with Mr. Raiter
promoting the jail issue. Mr. Weber stated that he had an endorsement sheet he would like to
pass around to Councilmembers and any interested staff members who would like to publicly
express their support for the jail tax issue.
Unfortunately, Cowlitz County Sheriff Bill Mahoney had a conflict and had to leave the meeting
prior to this agenda item and was unable to voice his support for the jail issue.
B. Bid Review: Columbia Theatre Exterior Renovation.
Bids were opened on August 16, 2001, for the Columbia Theatre Exterior Renovation project.
This work includes installation of a new exterior insulation and finish system on exterior walls of
the Columbia Theatre Building. Only one bid was received. Staff has declared that bid invalid
since it was not accompanied with the required 5% bid bond or cashier’s check. City Manager
Ivey recommended Council reject the sole bid and have Engineering re-bid the project.
City Council Minutes
August 23, 2001
Page 11
Councilman Jensen moved adoption of the foregoing, which motion was seconded by
Councilman McCrady, and on a vote duly held and recorded with 7 "Aye" votes by Mayor
Bergquist and Councilmembers Anagnostou, DiRe-Day, Jensen, Leber, McCrady and
Stockard, and no "Nay" votes, the City Manager’s recommendation to reject the bid was
approved.
C. Bid Review: Fir Street Inversion Liner.
City Manager Ivey stated that bids were opened on August 1, 2001, for the Fir Street Inversion
Liner project. This project will rehabilitate concrete sanitary sewer pipe along the 1500 and 1600
blocks of Fir Street.
The following bids were received:
Insituform Technologies, Inc., Benica, CA $18,657.84
Gelco Services, Inc., Salem, OR $20,121.20
Engineer’s Estimate $25,609.00
Inasmuch as the low bid from Insituform was regular and responsive, City Manager Ivey
recommended Council award the bid to the low bidder.
Councilwoman Stockard moved adoption of the foregoing, which motion was seconded by
Councilman McCrady, and on a vote duly held and recorded with 6 "Aye" votes by Mayor
Bergquist and Councilmembers DiRe-Day, Jensen, Leber, McCrady and Stockard, and no
"Nay" votes, the City Manager’s recommendation was approved. [Councilman
Anagnostou was out of the room when the vote was taken.]
D. Bid Review: 33rd Avenue Pump Stations.
August 15, 2001, was the bid opening day for this project, which would include relocating and
upgrading sewer lift stations at 33rd Avenue and Washington Way, and 33rd Avenue and Maple
Street. One bid was received, as follows:
Hollinger Construction, Inc., Longview, WA $650,500.10
Engineer’s Estimate $370,177.43
The single bid received was regular and responsive; however, since it was significantly higher
than the Engineer’s Estimate, City Manager Ivey recommended rejecting the bid and directing
staff to reevaluate the project and solicit new bids at a later date.
Councilwoman Leber moved adoption of the foregoing, which motion was seconded by
Councilman McCrady, and on a vote duly held and recorded with 7 "Aye" votes by Mayor
Bergquist and Councilmembers Anagnostou, DiRe-Day, Jensen, Leber, McCrady and
Stockard, and no "Nay" votes, the City Manager’s recommendation to reject the bid was
approved.
City Council Minutes
August 23, 2001
Page 12
E. Bid Review: Playground Equipment at Lake Sacajawea and Lads and Lassies Park (Kelso).
The Longview/Kelso Parks & Recreation Department sought bids for playground equipment for
two locations. Those bids, together with proposed alternate bids, were submitted as follows:
Bidder Lake Sacajawea Lads & Lassies Total
Park and Playground Products $26,307.12 $18,881.65 $45,188.77
Park and Playground Products (Alternate #1) $26,048.88 $18,849.37 $44,898.25
Playscapes Northwest $26,508.97 $19,349.79 $45,858.76
Playscapes Northwest (Alternate #1) $27,779.29 $19,349.79 $47,129.08
Playscapes Northwest (Alternate #2) $27,580.82 $19,349.79 $46,930.61
Miracle Northwest $27,999.86 $19,785.49 $47,785.35
Northwest Playground Equipment $27,968.13 $19,996.35 $47,964.48
Site-Lines Park and Playground Products $28,970.00 $20,000.00 $48,970.00
Budgeted Amounts for Each $28,000.00 $20,000.00 $48,000.00
Director of Parks & Recreation Rich Bemm explained the bidding process for playground
equipment. Since no two manufacturers make identical equipment, the bidding process does not
require bidders to submit the lowest bid. When lowest bids are sought for playground
equipment, the bidders come in with less product. To facilitate creativity, the manufacturers are
given a maximum range of money to work with; this allows them to put together a creative
design that supplies a lot of product. These bids represent a wide range of play equipment.
After reviewing the bids, the Parks and Recreation Board has recommended to City Manager
Ivey that the $45,188.77 bid from Park and Playground Products be accepted. [The alternate bid
from this company specified 3-1/2” posts rather than the 5-inch posts specified in their main bid.]
Grant monies were secured for the Lads & Lassies Park. Grant matching funds will be provided
by the Recreation Council, a non-profit organization in Kelso.
Councilman McCrady moved adoption of the foregoing, which motion was seconded by
Councilwoman Leber, and on a vote duly held the City Manager’s recommendation was
unanimously approved.
F. Request for Authorization to Proceed with Implementation of Telecommunications
Improvements.
A solution to the City’s telecommunications problems has been determined, and funding sources
have been found. City Manager Ivey introduced Judy Jones, Director of Information Services, to
make this presentation. Mrs. Jones was assisted by Neal Johnson, Senior Systems Analyst.
As Council is aware, the existing network infrastructure is deteriorating. The present system is
transmitting data at capacity, thus expansion of the system is not possible. Replacement of the
existing telephone system is long overdue. Both systems are so old that none of the equipment is
serviced. Replacement parts are pieced together by staff.
There are four drivers that indicate the need for new communication equipment; conditions at
City of Longview meet three of those conditions. In addition to the needed upgrades and the lack
City Council Minutes
August 23, 2001
Page 13
of expansion capability, the City also finds itself at the end of its lease with Adelphia for the old
cable plant. These indicators all point toward developing a new system.
As part of the new Adelphia franchise/lease agreement, the City has leased fiber optic which can
provide 1000 megabit transmission capacity for networking purposes. Using the fiber optic lines
to transmit data will effectively upgrade the City’s network.
Mrs. Jones commented that staff found that replacing the telephone system would be a little
complex. Four separate options had been considered. Mrs. Jones presented a cost analysis
associated with each of the different options.
Option D would incorporate recent technology which will allow the transmission of voice on the
same fiber as the network. Equipment is available from industry leader Cisco that will allow the
transmission of data, voice, and video over the optic fiber in a converged network. While this
technology is fairly new, staff did speak with other entities that have this type system or are
planning to install this type of system. This option will better utilize the fiber optic lines,
eliminate use of leased lines, will merge voice and data transmission, unify messaging services
and provide the additional benefit of video. Therefore, IS staff is recommending Council
approve the proposed Option D for the telephone upgrade.
Costs were estimated at $430,000 for the fiber network; $300,000 for the new phone system, for
a total of $730,000. Funding sources by department and debt service were projected for Council
for review.
Councilman McCrady moved to accept staff’s recommendation, to authorize staff to
proceed with option D, and to direct the City Attorney to prepare an ordinance effecting
the interfund load. This motion was seconded by Councilwoman Stockard, and, upon a
vote duly held, unanimously approved.
Mayor Bergquist declared a recess at 9:21 p.m. The meeting was reconvened at 9:28 p.m.
G. Mid-Year Budget Review.
Finance Director Kurt Sacha made a presentation regarding the state of the General Fund Budget.
As of June 30, the economic picture remains pretty close to what he projected based on first
quarter revenues. While the projected year-end revenues are up slightly based on experience
through the second quarter, they are still $777,676 less than budgeted. Three areas primarily are
affected: sales tax receipts, building permit fees, and intergovernmental revenues (pertaining to
the dissolution of shared management for Fire Administration with Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue).
Mr. Sacha also presented data on the history of gambling taxes. The card room tax rate was
lowered in June 2000. This did not result in a significant revenue decrease, since the table limits
at Cadillac Ranch were raised from $25 to $100 maximum bet. The state legislature reduced the
tax rate on bingo games from 10% to 5% in Jaunary 2000, which cost the City $88,000 in
revenue.
Council has been considering lowering the card room gambling rate from the present 12.5% to
10%. Mr. Sacha calculated that such a reduction would cost the City $91,426 in tax revenues.
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August 23, 2001
Page 14
At 11.4%, the area unemployment rate is the highest in the State.
Budget expenditures are also slightly lower than projected. Savings have occurred by not filling
open positions, reductions in spending for supplies, and less travel.
The State Legislature has authorized I-695 backfill funding for this year; however, it does not
come close to making up the difference lost when the motor vehicle excise tax was rescinded.
Should I-747 pass at this election, Mr. Sacha acknowledged that the City will have to come up
with another $300,000 to keep the budget balanced.
On a brighter note, Mr. Sacha stated he believed Federal Reserve Board and Chairman Alan
Greenspan will lower the prime interest rate the next time they meet in October. Also, a recent
newspaper story indicated that the Community and Economic Development Commission has
been receiving numerous inquires from businesses considering locating in town. The Mirant
facility has received approval to build a cogeneration plant at the Mint Farm Industrial Park.
14. MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION ONLY
A. Business License Applications.
B. Reminder: Saturday, August 25, Car Cruise.
The cruise will be from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Councilman Jensen stated that the Gearlords Car
Club has been very helpful in putting on this event, and he wanted to publicly acknowledge their
contribution. Chief Burgreen noted that LPD has 30 volunteers lined up to assist with crowd
control at the cruise.
The Unique Tin Car Show will start at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday at the Expo Center.
C. Babe Ruth Tournament Plaque.
Mayor Bergquist showed Council the 2001 plaque of appreciation given by the Babe Ruth
Tournament officials to the City of Longview.
D. September 20 Workshop Discussion.
Susie Meyers will be responsible for workshop discussion on Wako City segment, as well as City
Communications; Cindy Lopez will make a presentation on Undoing Racism.
E. Gifts from City of Wako to Councilmembers.
The Mayor passed out gifts from the City of Wako, Japan, delegation to those Councilmembers
who had not been at the official presentation.
F. Forum re: Police Procedure during Arrests.
Mayor Bergquist complimented LPD for putting on the recent forum at St. Helens School and for
including a mediator from the NAACP. People were able to present and discuss their issues.
City Council Minutes
August 23, 2001
Page 15
Chief Burgreen stated that he will take the lead for the next steps. He will discuss with staff the
next steps, and develop and proceed with a plan. He will be in contact with Gwen Betts.
G. National Night Out.
Councilman Jensen commented that the National Night Out held at Archie Anderson Park was a
very positive neighborhood event. This event was sponsored by the Highlands Drug-Free
Community grant.
H. Meeting Reminders
Regular Council Meeting - 7:00 p.m., Thursday, September 13, 2001
Workshop: 7:00 p.m., Thursday, September 20, 2001, City Hall Training Room: Wako
City; Undoing Racism; Communication
Regular Council Meeting - 7:00 p.m., Thursday, September 27, 2001
15. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Council at its regular session, the meeting
was adjourned at 9:58 p.m.
THE CITY OF LONGVIEW
Ann Davis, Deputy City Clerk
APPROVED:
Mayor
