Agenda - Council - 08/28/2018 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Councilmember Kuzma stated that the Charter Commission was not very receptive in the last discussion and asked for input on how that discussion would be handled. Ms. Gray replied that they are aware of that element and stated that if the City chooses to proceed with the proposal, it would simply explore road funding alternatives and in coordination with all parties, find the right fit for the City rather than simply deciding to implement franchise fees. She stated that gathering input from all stakeholders is an important part of the process. Ms. Edison explained that this is a road funding discussion and educating everyone on the means and methods of funding this huge plan provides a better opportunity to weigh each option. She stated that there are a lot of misconceptions on what franchise fees are and therefore providing that education helps to ensure that everyone understands the pros and cons of each option for funding. Councilmember Kuzma stated that the City recently conducted a resident survey and the overwhelming response was against franchise fees. Ms. Gray stated that the proposal is to provide the pros and cons of each funding alternative so that all the stakeholders can make an informed decision. She explained that it is difficult to put a lot of thought into a survey response because the response can be swayed by many factors. Acting Mayor LeTourneau asked why the decision was made to speak with just the Charter Commission rather than other Commissions or perhaps speaking to all Commissions. Ms. Edison explained that the thought to include the Charter Commission in phase one was to ensure transparency and that nothing is being hidden but confirmed that each of the Commissions could be included to gather input equally. Councilmember Kuzma asked if there is a funding source for this proposal. Finance Director Lund replied that the public improvement revolving fund would be used. Acting Mayor LeTourneau noted that phase two includes the element of public meetings and asked for information on what would be included in a public meeting. Ms. Edison stated that the public open house includes a scheduled presentation that would summarize how the City has been funding road improvements, alternative funding options, the impact to individual homeowners for each option, as well as boards throughout the room with information that would allow people to roam freely and then answer questions. Acting Mayor LeTourneau stated that staff has been successful in increasing resident participation through public engagement and asking for staff input. Community Development Director Gladhill stated that he is comfortable with the format as that mirrors what staff has been doing and noted that staff would work with WSB to smooth out the details prior to the public meetings. City Council Work Session / August 6, 2018 Page 2 of 9