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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026.05.04 Council Meeting MinutesMINUTES City Council Regular Meeting 7:00 PM - Monday, May 4, 2026 Pasco City Hall, Council Chambers & Microsoft Teams Webinar CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Charles Grimm, Mayor. ROLL CALL Councilmembers present: Charles Grimm, Mark Figueroa, Leo Perales, Calixto Hernandez, and Abel Campos Councilmembers attending remotely: Councilmembers absent: David Milne and Joe Cotta Staff present: Harold Stewart, City Manager; Richa Sigdel, Deputy City Manager; Angela Pashon, Interim Parks & Recreation Director; Kevin Crowley, Fire Chief; Kevin Hebdon, Finance Director; Daniel Kenny, City Attorney; Haylie Matson, Community & Economic Development Director; Craig Raymond, Deputy Community & Economic Development Director; Brent Cook, Interim Police Chief; Maria Serra, Public Works Director; and Krystle Shanks, Deputy City Clerk The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance. CONSENT AGENDA Approval of Meeting Minutes for April 13th and April 20th To approve the minutes of the Pasco City Council Special Meeting held on April 13, 2026, Council Workshop Meeting held on April 13, 2026, Special Meeting held on April 20, 2026 and Regular Meeting held on April 20, 2026. Bills and Communications - Approving Claims in the Total Amount of $8,264,089.19 To approve claims in the total amount of $8,264,089.19 ($4,173,022.00 in Check Nos. 277811 - 278031; $2,800,550.13 in Electronic Transfer Nos. 852948 - 852960, 853209, 853213 - 853214; $6,161.48 in Check Nos. 55222 - 55227; $1,284,355.58 in Electronic Transfer Nos. 30241414 - 30242069). Resolution No. 4731 and Ordinance No. 4832 - Authorizing acceptance of grant funding and execution of a grant agreement with the Washington State Department of Commerce, Office of Crime Victims Advocacy and Amending 2025–2026 Operating Budget To approve Resolution No. 4731, authorizing acceptance of grant funding and execution of a grant agreement with the Washington State Department of Commerce, Office of Crime Victims Advocacy, for the SFY26 Domestic Violence High Risk Team (DVHRT) Program. To adopt Ordinance No. 4832, amending the 2025-2026 Biennial Operating Budget, as adopted by Ordinance No. 4794, as amended; providing for the appropriation of $44,190 in grant funds for the Domestic Violence High Risk Team Program; and providing for severability and an effective date; authorizing publication by summary only. Resolution No. 4733 - Termination of ILA between the City of Pasco and Walla Walla County Fire Protection District 5 for Advanced Life Support Services To approve Resolution No. 4733, terminating an interlocal agreement between the City of Pasco and Walla Walla Fire Protection District No. 5 for Advanced Life Support Services. Resolution No. 4734 - Amendment to Fire Department Facility Use Agreement To approve Resolution No. 4734, amending the Fire Department Facility Use Agreement between the City of Pasco and Franklin County Fire Protection District No. 3. Resolution No. 4735 - Amendment to Interlocal Agreement between City of Pasco and Franklin County Fire District No. 3 Concerning the Exchange of Services and the Transfer of Assets Due to the Annexation of the Road 80 Area to the City To approve Resolution No. 4735, amending the interlocal agreement between the City of Pasco and Franklin County Fire District No. 3, concerning the exchange of services and the transfer of assets due to the annexation of the Road 80 Area to the City. MOTION: Councilmember Perales moved, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez to approve the Consent Agenda as read by Roll Call vote. RESULT: Motion carried 5-0 AYES: Mayor Grimm, Councilmember Figueroa, Councilmember Perales, Councilmember Hernandez, and Councilmember Campos ABSENT: Mayor Pro Tem Milne and Councilmember Cotta PROCLAMATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month Proclamation Mayor Grimm read the proclamation for "Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month" scheduled for May 2026 and presented the proclamation to members of the AANHPI community. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Awareness Month Proclamation Mayor Grimm read the proclamation for "Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Awareness Month" scheduled for May 2026 and presented the proclamation to Rachel Doyle and guests. National Police Week and Peace Officers Memorial Day Proclamation Mayor Grimm read and presented the proclamation proclaiming May 10-16, 2026 as "National Police Week" and May 15, 2026 as "Peace Officers Memorial Day" in Pasco, Washington to Interim Police Chief Brent Cook and guests. PUBLIC COMMENTS Thomas Granbois, Big Maple Properties, thanked City staff for their work on the Cinco de Mayo event and highlighted the economic and community benefits of the Pasco Taco Crawl. He also encouraged continued investment in bicycle and pedestrian connectivity downtown. Chris Tynan, Founder & CEO of Burnham, discussed wastewater treatment and RNG facility operations, noting project benefits, operational challenges, and possible solutions to address budget shortfalls. He expressed commitment to continued collaboration with the City and processors. Brian Verhei, Pasco resident, expressed concerns regarding Councilmember Leo Perales’ use of social media and requested the Council review communication practices and accountability measures. Marcie Torres, owner of Gutter Girl, expressed concerns regarding Councilmember Leo Perales’ interactions with community members and businesses and encouraged accountability from elected officials. LaWanda Hatch, spoke in support of Councilmember Leo Perales, citing free speech protections and encouraging use of formal complaint processes supported by evidence. Vanessa Leon, expressed concerns regarding Councilmember Leo Perales’ conduct and emphasized the importance of accountability and verifying information before sharing publicly. Marie Reddout, speaking remotely, discussed an email she had sent to Councilmembers regarding concerns related to family court matters and encouraged community collaboration and legislative improvements supporting families. Daniel Frederickson, Pasco resident, encouraged elected officials to use appropriate communication channels and suggested pedestrian-focused improvements downtown to support business activity and community events. Amber Wade, Pasco resident, shared personal experiences related to mental health and encouraged compassion and careful consideration of the impact public statements can have on community members. REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES AND/OR OFFICERS Verbal Reports from Councilmembers Councilmember Perales reported on the success of the Cinco de Mayo event, thanked City staff, volunteers, business organizations, and community partners for their collaboration, and noted strong attendance and positive community participation. Councilmember Campos commented on the success of the Cinco de Mayo festivities and recognized staff, sponsors, and volunteers. He also attended the Big Bro Joe grand opening and an LRA housing outreach meeting, encouraging continued community involvement in addressing housing challenges. Councilmember Figueroa shared appreciation for residents and visitors who attended Cinco de Mayo events and highlighted the sense of community and collaboration demonstrated throughout the celebration. Councilmember Hernandez thanked staff and volunteers for their work on Cinco de Mayo, attended the Big Bro Joe grand opening, and participated in the Police Academy program focused on SWAT and K-9 operations. Mayor Grimm discussed participation in a Tri-City Chamber mentoring event, acknowledged community efforts related to LRA outreach discussions, and thanked staff, particularly Ron Campton and his fellow Parks & Recreation staff, for their work on the Cinco de Mayo event. HEARINGS AND COUNCIL ACTION ON ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS RELATING THERETO PH and Ordinance No. 4833 - Dietrich Rd ROW Vacation (VAC2025-004) Mr. Raymond presented a request to vacate a remnant right-of-way adjacent to North Commercial Avenue and Dietrich/Pasco-Kahlotus Roads that no longer serves a transportation purpose. Staff reported the vacation would not impact traffic, public access, or future public use, and would improve development potential for the adjoining industrial property. Mayor Grimm opened the public hearing and called for public comments three (3) times and no one came forward to speak and the public hearing was closed. MOTION: Councilmember Perales moved, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez to adopt Ordinance No. 4833, vacating that portion of public road right of way for Dietrich Road, City of Pasco, Franklin County, Washington, situated in sections 21 and 22, township 9 north, range 30 east, Willamette Meridian; authorizing publication by summary only. RESULT: Motion carried 5-0 AYES: Mayor Grimm, Councilmember Figueroa, Councilmember Perales, Councilmember Hernandez, and Councilmember Campos ABSENT: Mayor Pro Tem Milne and Councilmember Cotta PH & Ordinance No. 4834 - Harris Road ROW Vacation (VAC2026-001) Mr. Raymond presented a request to vacate a portion of Harris Road right-of-way no longer needed due to the Road 103 realignment project previously approved by Council. Staff reported the vacation would not create landlocked parcels or negatively impact access, and noted the City would retain necessary utility easements. Mayor Grimm opened the public hearing and called for public comments three (3) times and no one came forward to speak and the public hearing was closed. Mayor Grimm referenced noted that the Harris Road right-of-way vacation supports the Broadmoor development area by removing an unnecessary roadway and allowing future development opportunities near the interchange. MOTION: Councilmember Perales moved, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez to adopt Ordinance No. 4834, vacating a portion of the Harris Road right-of-way between future Road 103 and Broadmoor Boulevard within the Broadmoor area, while retaining an easement and the right to exercise or grant easements within the vacated right-of-way for the construction, repair, and maintenance of public utilities and services; providing for severability, establishing an effective date, and authorizing publication by summary only. RESULT: Motion carried 5-0 AYES: Mayor Grimm, Councilmember Figueroa, Councilmember Perales, Councilmember Hernandez, and Councilmember Campos ABSENT: Mayor Pro Tem Milne and Councilmember Cotta ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS NOT RELATING TO HEARINGS Q Ordinance No. 4835 - Elite Investment Group, LLC Rezone from C-1 & R-4 to MU (Z2026-001) Mr. Kenny read the quasi-judicial procedure including how the Appearance of Fairness Doctrine applies. Next, he asked all Councilmembers a series of questions associated with potential conflicts of interest to disclose such potential conflicts or appearance of conflicts. With no response from Councilmembers, he asked if any members of the public were seeking to disqualify a member of Council from participating in the proceedings. No one came forward. Mr. Raymond presented a request to rezone approximately 4.79 acres located north of Wrigley Drive and east of Road 76 from R4 High Density Residential and C1 Retail Business to Mixed Use. Mr. Raymond noted the request was a non- project action with no specific development proposed at this time. The Hearing Examiner held a public hearing on March 11, 2026, and recommended approval on March 20, 2026. Mr. Raymond explained the proposed mixed use zoning is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and would allow a mix of residential, commercial, and office uses supporting walkable and efficient development. MOTION: Councilmember Perales moved, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez to adopt Ordinance No. 4835, amending the zoning classification of certain real property located, north of Wrigley Dr., south of Sandifur Pkwy., west of Road 68 and east Road 76, in Pasco, Franklin County, Washington from C-1 (Retail Business) and R-4 (High Density Residential) to MU (Mixed Use) and, further, authorize publication by summary only. RESULT: Motion carried 5-0 AYES: Mayor Grimm, Councilmember Figueroa, Councilmember Perales, Councilmember Hernandez, and Councilmember Campos ABSENT: Mayor Pro Tem Milne and Councilmember Cotta Q Ordinance No. 4836 - Chavoshi, LLC Rezone from C-3 to I-1 (Z2026-002) Mr. Kenny read the quasi-judicial procedure including how the Appearance of Fairness Doctrine applies. Next, he asked all Councilmembers a series of questions associated with potential conflicts of interest to disclose such potential conflicts or appearance of conflicts. With no response from Councilmembers, he asked if any members of the public were seeking to disqualify a member of Council from participating in the proceedings. No one came forward. Mr. Raymond presented a request to rezone approximately 2.37 acres located south of East Salt Lake Street and west of North Oregon Avenue from C3 General Business to I1 Industrial. Mr. Raymond noted the request was a non-project action with no development proposed at this time. The Hearing Examiner held a public hearing on March 11, 2026, and recommended approval on March 23, 2026. Mr. Raymond explained the proposed I1 zoning is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and supports light industrial and related uses. MOTION: Councilmember Perales moved, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez to adopt Ordinance No. 4836, amending the zoning classification of certain real property located north of E Spokane Dr., south of E Salt Lake St., west of N Oregon Ave., east of BNSF Railroad, in Pasco, Franklin County, Washington from C-3 (General Business) to I-1 (Light Industrial) and, further, authorize publication by summary only. RESULT: Motion carried 5-0 AYES: Mayor Grimm, Councilmember Figueroa, Councilmember Perales, Councilmember Hernandez, and Councilmember Campos ABSENT: Mayor Pro Tem Milne and Councilmember Cotta Q Ordinance No. 4837 - Elite Investment Group, LLC Rezone from R-4 and C- 1 to MU (Z2026-003) Mr. Kenny read the quasi-judicial procedure including how the Appearance of Fairness Doctrine applies. Next, he asked all Councilmembers a series of questions associated with potential conflicts of interest to disclose such potential conflicts or appearance of conflicts. With no response from Councilmembers, he asked if any members of the public were seeking to disqualify a member of Council from participating in the proceedings. No one came forward. Mr. Raymond presented a request to rezone two parcels near Road 90 and Center Parkway from R4 High Density Residential and C1 Retail Business to Mixed Use. Mr. Raymond stated the request is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and noted the Hearing Examiner recommended approval following a public hearing held on March 11, 2026. He explained the mixed use zoning designation supports a combination of residential, commercial, and office uses and encourages walkable, efficient development. MOTION: Councilmember Perales moved, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez to adopt Ordinance No. 4837, amending the zoning classification of certain real property located north of Sandifur Parkway, west of Road 90, south of Ruven Street, and east of Road 92 in Pasco, Franklin County, Washington, from R-4 (High Density Residential) and C-1 (Retail Business) to Mixed-Use and, further, authorize publication by summary only. RESULT: Motion carried 5-0 AYES: Mayor Grimm, Councilmember Figueroa, Councilmember Perales, Councilmember Hernandez, and Councilmember Campos ABSENT: Mayor Pro Tem Milne and Councilmember Cotta Ordinance No. 4838 - Imposing Sales and Use Tax Within the Boundaries of the Pasco Transportation Benefit District Due to the excused absence of two Councilmembers and the significance of the item, Council expressed a preference to postpone consideration until all Councilmembers could participate. Legal counsel advised Council could table the item without setting a specific date, allowing staff and the Mayor to coordinate a future meeting when all members were available. MOTION: Councilmember Perales moved, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez to table this item until the next regular business meeting when the the full council is seated. RESULT: Motion carried 5-0 AYES: Mayor Grimm, Councilmember Figueroa, Councilmember Perales, Councilmember Hernandez, and Councilmember Campos ABSENT: Mayor Pro Tem Milne and Councilmember Cotta Resolution No. 4732 - Interlocal Agreement with Franklin County for Jail Services Interim Police Chief Cook presented a three-year interlocal agreement with Franklin County for continued jail services through 2028, including prisoner custody, transport, medical care, billing procedures, and ongoing coordination meetings between the City and County. Council discussed increased booking and inmate-related costs and the need to monitor future financial impacts. Mr. Stewart noted revisions to the agreement, including a three-year term beginning upon execution of the agreement and a 3% rate increase added for 2028, both of which were approved by the County. MOTION: Councilmember Perales moved, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez to approve Resolution No. 4732, authorizing the City Manager to execute an interlocal agreement between Franklin County and the City of Pasco for the use of jail facilities. RESULT: Motion carried 5-0 AYES: Mayor Grimm, Councilmember Figueroa, Councilmember Perales, Councilmember Hernandez, and Councilmember Campos ABSENT: Mayor Pro Tem Milne and Councilmember Cotta *Resolution No. 4736 - Acceptance of work for the Martin Luther King Community Center Renovation and Expansion Phase 1 Construction Project Ms. Serra presented the completed Phase 1 renovation and expansion work for the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center performed by Booth and Sons Construction. The project included major entrance and interior improvements and was completed for approximately $2.9 million using a combination of state, ARPA, and congressional funding sources. Remaining project funds will be applied toward Phase 2 improvements. Council commented positively on the upgraded facility and recent ribbon cutting. MOTION: Councilmember Perales moved, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez to approve Resolution No. 4736, accepting work performed by Booth and Sons Construction, of Kennewick WA, under contract for the Martin Luther King Community Center Renovation and Expansion Phase 1 Construction Project. RESULT: Motion carried 5-0 AYES: Mayor Grimm, Councilmember Figueroa, Councilmember Perales, Councilmember Hernandez, and Councilmember Campos ABSENT: Mayor Pro Tem Milne and Councilmember Cotta *Resolution No. 4737 - Benton-Franklin Headstart Lease Agreement Ms. Pashon presented a proposed five-year lease agreement with Benton Franklin Head Start for continued preschool services at the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center following completion of Phase 1 renovations. She reviewed the lease terms and noted the agreement reflects Head Start’s community partnership and support of the renovation project. MOTION: Councilmember Perales moved, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez to approve Resolution No. 4737, authorizing the City Manager to execute a 5-Year Lease Agreement between the Benton-Franklin Headstart and the City Of Pasco for the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center located at 205 S. Wehe Ave. Pasco. RESULT: Motion carried 5-0 AYES: Mayor Grimm, Councilmember Figueroa, Councilmember Perales, Councilmember Hernandez, and Councilmember Campos ABSENT: Mayor Pro Tem Milne and Councilmember Cotta *Resolution No. 4738 - Project Acceptance of the Zone 3 Water Storage Reservoir Project Ms. Serra presented the completed Zone 3 Water Storage Reservoir Project constructed by TBI, Inc., which included a new 3.5 million-gallon reservoir near Burns Road and Road 90. She noted the project was the City’s first progressive design-build project and was completed successfully for approximately $17 million, below the original budget. Funding was provided through the Public Works Board loan program and utility rates. MOTION: Councilmember Perales moved, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez to approve Resolution No. 4738, accepting work performed under the Design Build Institute of America Agreement with T Bailey, Inc. for the Zone 3 Water Storage Reservoir Project. RESULT: Motion carried 5-0 AYES: Mayor Grimm, Councilmember Figueroa, Councilmember Perales, Councilmember Hernandez, and Councilmember Campos ABSENT: Mayor Pro Tem Milne and Councilmember Cotta *Resolution No. 4739 - Professional Services Agreement Amendment No. 3 with Architects West for Design and Construction Services for the Martin Luther King Community Center Remodel and Expansion Project Ms. Serra presented Amendment No. 3 to the professional services agreement with Architects West for continued design services related to Phases 2 and 3 of the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center renovation and expansion project. She explained the amendment would complete bid-ready designs for the remaining project phases and help position the City for future funding opportunities. MOTION: Councilmember Perales moved, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez to approve Resolution No. 4739, authorizing the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 3 for the professional services agreement with Architects West. for additional design services for phase 2 and 3 of the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center Renovation and Expansion Project. RESULT: Motion carried 5-0 AYES: Mayor Grimm, Councilmember Figueroa, Councilmember Perales, Councilmember Hernandez, and Councilmember Campos ABSENT: Mayor Pro Tem Milne and Councilmember Cotta *Resolution No. 4740 - Professional Services Agreement Amendment No 1 with RH2 Engineering for Phase 2 of the Maitland Lift Station and 9th & Washington Lift Station Improvement Projects Ms. Serra presented Amendment No. 1 to the professional services agreement with RH2 Engineering for detailed design services related to improvements at the Maitland and 9th and Washington sewer lift station projects. She explained the facilities are critical components of the City’s wastewater system and reviewed planned improvements identified through prior assessments. The amendment would allow preparation of final bid documents for future construction work. Council discussed the condition of the facilities and anticipated project timing. MOTION: Councilmember Perales moved, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez to approve Resolution No. 4740, authorizing the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 1 with RH2 Engineering, Inc. for design, bidding, and construction services for the Maitland Lift Station and 9th & Washington Lift Station Improvements projects. RESULT: Motion carried 5-0 AYES: Mayor Grimm, Councilmember Figueroa, Councilmember Perales, Councilmember Hernandez, and Councilmember Campos ABSENT: Mayor Pro Tem Milne and Councilmember Cotta *Resolution No. 4741 - Approval of BNSF Advanced Purchase of Materials Ms. Serra presented a request authorizing Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway to advance purchase materials needed for demolition of the former Lewis Street underpass beneath the railroad tracks. She explained the project requires temporary removal and reinstallation of railroad tracks and signal equipment coordinated with BNSF operations. The project is funded through a Public Works Board loan with partial principal forgiveness. Council discussed anticipated construction impacts, including temporary noise, vibration, and truck traffic, but noted no expected roadway closures. MOTION: Councilmember Perales moved, seconded by Councilmember Hernandez to approved Resolution No. 4741, authorizing the City Manager to approve the BNSF Advanced Purchase of Materials and Notice to Proceed for reviews. RESULT: Motion carried 5-0 AYES: Mayor Grimm, Councilmember Figueroa, Councilmember Perales, Councilmember Hernandez, and Councilmember Campos ABSENT: Mayor Pro Tem Milne and Councilmember Cotta MISCELLANEOUS DISCUSSION Mr. Stewart provided updates on recent and upcoming community events, including the City’s Cinco de Mayo celebration, which staff estimated was the largest City-sponsored event to date with approximately 13,000 to 15,000 attendees. He recognized City staff, community partners, and volunteers for their work supporting the event. Mr. Stewart also announced the upcoming Fur Babies and Fuzz pet adoption event, opening day of the Pasco Farmers Market, and the final LRA housing outreach meeting, noting staff would begin preparing ordinance recommendations based on public feedback received during the outreach process. EXECUTIVE SESSION Council adjourned into Executive Session at 8:49 PM for 15 minutes returning at 9:04 PM to discuss with legal counsel about current or potential litigation per RCW 42.30.110(1)(i), with the City Manager, Deputy City Manager, and City Attorney. Mayor Grimm called the meeting back to order at 9:04 PM. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:05 PM. PASSED and APPROVED on May 18, 2026. APPROVED: ATTEST: David Milne, Mayor Pro Tem Krystle Shanks, Deputy City Clerk