09-25-13 Study Session MinutesYELM CITY COUNCIL
STUDY SESSION
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2013, 5:00 P.M.
Present: JW Foster, Joe Baker, Ken Garmann, Russ Hendrickson.
Staff: Shelly Badger, Grant Beck, Tami Merriman
Tracey Wood arrived 5:15 p.m., Mike McGowan 5:35 p.m., Mayor Harding 5:35 p.m.
Sustainable Thurston Plan, Executive Summary. Grant Beck opened the meeting with the
introduction of Lon Wyrick, Kathy McCormick and Veena Tabbut, Thurston Regional Planning
Council. Lon began with a 3 year history of the crafting the plan, from conception, granting, task
force work, citizen participation and presentation of a sustainable development vision and
strategies to guide the region through 2035. Yelm was well represented with Bob Isom, Grant
Beck, Stephanie Ray and Shelly Badger participating through the process. Citizen participation
remained high throughout. The plan is a guiding document for regional planning developed by the
vision of communities. "A sustainable community will enhance quality of life, foster economic
vitality, and protect the environment while balancing our needs today with those of future
residents."
Kathy McCormick reviewed the phases and outcome of the plan's development and timeline,
stating that outreach and feedback are continuous, including an online survey available through
October 2, 2013 at www.sustainablethurston.org. Land Use and Transportation patterns form the
backbone of our community. Get them right and sustainability becomes easier. Implementation
and follow through rated as high priority. Directed to be bold and be specific with goals and
targets.
5:35 p.m.
Veena Tabbut continued with targets for land use based on the findings to include all phases of
the population. Develop vital urban areas, and keep rural areas rural. Develop walk able town
centers supported by economic development activities, increase range and choice of housing with
access to goods and services.
Discussion followed regarding the deliverable from the plan, the difference between the GMA, the
future after the expiration of the funding grant and the steps to adoption.
Mazama Pocket Gopher, Grant Beck provided an update on the attempts to remove the gopher
from the endangered list, sighting the unsuccessful study conducted by State Fish and Wildlife to
trap and confirm identification of the mazama pocket gopher in the Capital Forest. It did provide
more time for TC Chamber's contracted scientists to study the gopher's resilience to survive in the
midst of urban development.
CONCENSUS TO SUPPORT THOSE EFFORTS.
Utility Hook-up waiver or deferral for low income persons, Shelly Badger stated RCW
35.92.380 authorizes waiver or delay of payment of hookup fees for low income persons to
connect to water and sewer lines used by the city to provide utility service. Must be program
established by ordinance. Discussion of conditions to qualify, if waiver or deferral implemented in
Yelm.
CONCENSUS DIRECTING STAFF TO PURSUE OPTIONS AND BRING BACK TO COUNCIL.
Mayors Report. AWC Employee Benefit Trust self insurance. Shelly provided information about
employee insurance plan converting to self-insured plan with same carriers.
Park Bond flyer is being reprinted in preparation for November primary election.
Council Initiatives Councilmember McGowan announced the HOME Consortium retreat
upcoming October 14. Asked members to bring any questions or input to him to relay.
Procedural adjustment recommended regarding excusing Councilmembers from meetings.
Adjourn: 7:55 p.m.
Attestt v
.Keri l-Fartfirlg, Mayor r 4'nd �, nine Schnepf, City Clerk