08-26-15 Study Session MinutesYELM CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26, 2015 5:00 P.M.
Mayor Harding called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
Present: Councilmembers: JW Foster, Joe Baker, Tracy Wood, Ken Garmann and Jennifer Littlefield
Staff: Grant Beck, Ryan Johnstone, Bob Rhoades, Aris McClelland and spouse. One citizen attending.
4. Sewer Treatment Capital Facilities Plan, Condition Report, Presenters: Dr. David Kopchynski PHD PE
and Brian Bunker PE with Parametrix. Ryan Johnstone provided an update on the WWTP condition
assessment prepared by Parametrix from construction in 1993 to its current condition. Also provided a
graph map showing the sludge route processes from filtration to reclaimed water to clarify the basics,
before providing more detail on the current condition of the Plant. In summary, the Plant was built to treat
the conditions of the time. Challenges began in 2000 with balancing the nitrogen and ammonia levels as
required by the State permitting for Class A reclaimed water. Other contributing factors were identified,
including reduced BOD levels, heat and cold sensitivities, which required short term improvements. In
2010, work began on the Sewer Facility Plan and in April 2014 Parametrix was brought on for
comprehensive research and to provide alternative solutions to fix. Parametrix is determining the best
alternative options and will bring forward recommendations for the aging Plant.
5. Mayor's Report. Mayor Harding provided a draft of the Yelm Parks Advisory Board Committee's
recommended Policies, Guidelines, Rules and Rates for the use of the Yelm Community Center currently
under construction. Discussion followed with varied opinions about the rate structure; inquiries and
suggestions about how the facility would be staffed; and how operations and maintenance costs would be
supported. The policies and rates were modeled from other City's existing policies. Councilmember
Garmann inquired about previous attempts to partner with SSCC for extension classes in Yelm.
Response was that when the Community Center Bond failed, the design of the center was scaled down to
2 rooms and an office, insufficient for classrooms. However, there may be other opportunities with the
school in the future. Mayor announced there will be a walk-thru tour and later suggested that Council
review the draft and send their comments to him.
6. Council Initiatives
Discussion on the inconsistencies in the patchwork asphalt paving on Yelm Ave and suggested that they
be marked and addressed, including the final striping, before the county crew leaves Yelm.
Inquired about hiring staff for vacant positions. Mayor responded that the Finance Director and PW Parks
Maintenance positions have been filled, an offer has been made for WWTP Manager and staff is still
working on filling the PW Manager position. There is no confirmed process for filling the City Administrator
position at this time. City Hall will be closed to the public 2 hours per month to allow for staff meetings,
training or to catch up uninterrupted. Schedule will be posted on city buildings for 2nd and 4th Tuesday
mornings 8am-9am as closed to the public.
Skateboard Park bids came in high and will have to be re-evaluated. RFPs are out for prosecution
services. Mosman water leak was identified as part of the reclaimed water line. Inquired about use of
Restitution Center rather than Nisqually Jail. Increase visibility of pedestrian crosswalks.
Jennifer Littlefield announced September 12 is National Day of Service and is looking for community
service projects for a group.
Adjourn: :05 p.m.
Attest—J&,""',
Ron Hardin ayor Janine chnepf, City Clerk