HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026.06.01 Council Minutes
MINUTES
City Council Regular Meeting
7:00 PM - Monday, June 1, 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, David Milne, Mark Figueroa, Leo
Perales, Joe Cotta, Calixto Hernandez, and Abel Campos
Councilmembers attending remotely:
Councilmembers absent: None
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; Drew Pollom, City
Attorney; 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 May 11th and May 18th
To approve the minutes of the Pasco City Council Special Meeting held on May
11, 2026, Workshop Meeting held on May 11, 2026 and Regular Meeting held on
May 18, 2026.
Bills and Communications - Approving Claims in the Total Amount of
$6,845,719.05
To approve claims in the total amount of $6,845,719.05 ($3,165,587.37 in Check
Nos. 278320 - 278566; $2,375,770.27 in Electronic Transfer Nos. 853248 -
853249, 853252 - 853262, 853266 - 853267, 853269; $2,233.95 in Check Nos.
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55234 - 55263; $1,302,127.46 in Electronic Transfer Nos. 30242734 - 30243397).
Resolution No. 4747 - Professional Services Agreement Amendment No. 4
with RH2 Engineering, Inc. for Design Services for the Process Water Reuse
Facility Phase 4 Irrigation System Farm Upgrades Project
To approve Resolution No. 4747, Authorizing the City Manager to Execute
Amendment RH2 with Agreement Professional Services for 4 No. the
Engineering, Inc. for the Design of the Process Water Reuse Facility (PWRF)
Pretreatment Improvement Phase 4: Irrigation System Farm Upgrades Project.
Resolution No. 4748 - Professional Services Agreement Amendment No. 6
with Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc. for Butterfield Water Treatment Plant
Improvements
To approve Resolution No. 4748, authorizing the City Manager to execute
Amendment No. 6 with Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc. for design services for the
Butterfield WTP Improvements project.
Resolution No. 4749 - Professional Services Agreement Amendment No. 9
with RH2 Engineering, Inc. for Design Services for the Process Water Reuse
Facility Phase 2 Project
To approve Resolution No. 4749, Authorizing the City Manager to Execute
Amendment Agreement RH2 with Services No. the for 9 Professional
Engineering, Inc. for the Process Water Reuse Facility (PWRF) Pretreatment
Improvement Phase 2: Winter Storage.
*Resolution No. 4750 - Acceptance of Work for Citywide Traffic Signal
Improvements Phase 2
To approve Resolution No. 4750, accepting work performed by Apollo, Inc of
Pasco, WA, under contract for the Citywide Traffic Signal Improvements Phase 2.
MOTION: Mayor Pro Tem Milne moved, seconded by Councilmember Perales
to approve the Consent Agenda as read.
RESULT: Motion carried by Roll Call vote 6-1
AYES: Mayor Grimm, Mayor Pro Tem Milne, Councilmember
Figueroa, Councilmember Cotta, Councilmember
Hernandez, and Councilmember Campos
NAYS: Councilmember Perales
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Dana Crutchfield addressed Council regarding a code enforcement concern at Road
92 and Court Street. She expressed concerns about overgrown vegetation creating
traffic visibility issues, pedestrian safety hazards, potential rodent infestation, and fire
risks. Ms. Crutchfield noted the current backlog of code enforcement cases and
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questioned whether the City could take action if the vegetation encroaches into the
public right-of-way.
Mitch Murphy spoke in support of the proposed Transportation Benefit District sales
tax, stating that roadway maintenance and preservation have been deferred for too
long. The speaker commented that a sales tax would distribute the cost among all
users of Pasco's transportation system, including visitors and shoppers from
neighboring jurisdictions.
Mitch Snope addressed Council regarding concerns about law enforcement response
to ongoing personal safety issues. He described difficulties obtaining police reports
and requested greater accountability and enforcement action. The Mayor indicated
staff would follow up on the concerns raised.
Marcy Torres thanked organizers of the Cinco de Mayo Parade and spoke positively
about her experience communicating with parade organizers. She also shared
concerns she has received from community members regarding student behavior,
drug greater encouraged and schools local within accountability and use,
responsiveness from school officials.
Amber Waid thanked Council for the respect shown to her during public meetings and
clarified that Councilmember Leo Perales had not influenced her public comments.
She also commended the Pasco Police Department for its community engagement
efforts meetings, neighborhood at animal positive highlighted and experiences
adoption events, and Memorial Day activities.
REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES AND/OR OFFICERS
Verbal Reports from Councilmembers
Councilmember Cotta reported touring the Columbia Valley Recovery Center and
expressed appreciation for the facility and the services it will provide to individuals
seeking detoxification and recovery support. He noted the positive impact the
center is expected to have on the community.
Councilmember Perales reported attending the Columbia Valley Recovery Center
tour and praised the facility and Recovery Coalition representatives. He also met
with residents regarding curb ramps and driveway approaches, discussed future
park development opportunities near Road 48, and spoke with residents following
the recent death of a young community member regarding public safety concerns
relating to e-bikes.
Councilmember Campos reported attending Stevens Middle School Career Day,
where with information career shared from multiple staff City departments
students. She also attended a Pasco Prevention Network breakfast and received
information regarding youth attendance, behavioral trends, substance use, and
prevention programs within the community.
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Councilmember Figueroa reported attending the Team Pasco House No. 26 open
house and highlighted the educational opportunities, mentorship, and scholarship
support provided through the student construction program. He praised the
collaboration between students, educators, and industry partners.
Mayor Grimm reported participating in discussions with regional mayors focused
on community unity, regional partnerships, and less restrictive alternative housing
issues. He also met with a Benton County Commissioner to discuss the Columbia
Valley Recovery Center and regional intergovernmental matters affecting Pasco
residents.
HEARINGS AND COUNCIL ACTION ON ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS
RELATING THERETO
*Public Hearing - Essential Public Facilities (EPF), Secure Community
Transition Facilities (SCTFs), and Less Restrictive Alternative (LRA)
Housing Code Update
Mr. Stewart Staff introduced this item and introduced Drew Pollom, City Attroney,
who governing regulations City's the proposed amendments presented to
Transition Facilities Community Secure Facilities, Public Essential including
(SCTFs) and Less Restrictive Alternative (LRA) housing. Staff reviewed state law
requirements, proposed buffering and siting standards, and the City's authority to
regulate such facilities through zoning and development regulations.
Council the discussed potential modifications to draft ordinance, including
increased separation distances, enhanced security requirements, emergency
response and procedures, ongoing neighborhood coordination, notification
operational reviews.
Mayor Grimm opened the public hearing up for comments.
Marcy Torres expressed concerns regarding the proximity of potential facilities to
schools, daycare centers, and other sensitive locations and urged the City to
prioritize public safety.
Amber Waid shared concerns regarding the impact of sexually violent predators
on victims and communities and encouraged the City to pursue the strongest
safeguards and restrictions allowed by law.
Mayor Grimm called for public comments three (3) times and no one else came
forward to speak, therefore the public hearing was closed.
Staff was directed to continue refining the proposed regulations and to return with
updated recommendations for further Council review at the June 22, 2026 Council
Workshop and July 6, 2026 Public Hearing.
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ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS NOT RELATING TO HEARINGS
Ordinance No. 4843 - Imposing Sales and Use Tax Within the Boundaries of
the Pasco Transportation Benefit District)
Ms. Sigdel presented the proposed ordinance imposing an additional 0.1% sales
and use tax within the Pasco Transportation Benefit District. Ms. Sigdel reviewed
the purpose and history of the Transportation Benefit District, available funding
options, projected revenues, and statutory restrictions governing the use of
transportation benefit district funds. She explained that revenues generated by
the tax could only be used for transportation-related projects, including pavement
preservation, traffic calming measures, and transportation infrastructure
improvements, and emphasized the City's long-term transportation funding needs.
obligations, roadway growing maintenance the discussed Council City's
increasing traffic volumes, and the need for sustainable transportation funding.
Members acknowledged concerns regarding the financial impact on residents and
explored of costs long-term weighing the sources funding alternative while
deferred maintenance.
Discussion also included whether the proposed tax should be referred to voters,
the City's responsibility to address infrastructure needs proactively, and the
importance facilities the as reliable transportation safe maintaining of and
community continues to grow.
MOTION: Mayor Pro Tem Milne moved, seconded by Councilmember Cotta to
adopt Ordinance No. 4843, adding a new Section 3.270.035 to the Pasco
Municipal Code imposing an additional sales and use tax of one-tenth of one
percent within the boundaries of the Pasco Transportation Benefit District for
the purpose of financing the costs associated with transportation improvements
in 82.14.0455; the District as authorized by RCW 36.73.065 and RCW
providing for severability and establishing an effective date; authorizing
publication by summary only.
RESULT: Motion carried by Roll Call vote 5-2
AYES: Mayor Pro Tem Milne, Councilmember Figueroa,
Councilmember Cotta, Councilmember Hernandez, and
Councilmember Campos
NAYS: Mayor Grimm and Councilmember Perales
Ordinances No. 4844 & 4845 - Amending PMC Section 3.35.160 Water Utility
to Correct Formatting, Clarify Applicable Fees and Effective Dates
Ms. Sigdel presented Ordinances No. 4844 and 4845, explaining that the
amendments were intended to improve the organization, readability, and clarity of
the Pasco Municipal Code regarding water utility connection fees, utility rates, and
effective dates. She stated that the amendments did not alter previously adopted
rates or fees but clarified their presentation within the code.
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MOTION: Mayor Pro Tem Milne moved, seconded by Councilmember Perales
to adopt Ordinance 4844, amending PMC Section 3.35.160 Water Utility,
correcting formatting, clarify applicable fees, and remove fees not yet in effect,
further, authorize publication by summary only.
RESULT: Motion carried 7-0
AYES: Mayor Grimm, Mayor Pro Tem Milne, Councilmember
Figueroa, Councilmember Perales, Councilmember
Cotta, Councilmember Hernandez, and Councilmember
Campos
MOTION: Mayor Pro Tem Milne moved, seconded by Councilmember Perales
to adopt Ordinance 4845, amending PMC Section 3.35.160 Water Utility,
establishing water utility rates and fees effective January 1, 2027, further,
authorize publication by summary only.
RESULT: Motion carried 7-0
AYES: Mayor Grimm, Mayor Pro Tem Milne, Councilmember
Figueroa, Councilmember Perales, Councilmember
Cotta, Councilmember Hernandez, and Councilmember
Campos
Resolution No. 4751 - Segregation of Local Improvement District No. 152
Assessment
of segregation the regarding 4751 Resolution presented Hebdon Mr. No.
assessments within Local Improvement District No. 152. Mr. Hebdon explained
that following subdivision of properties within the district, state law requires
assessments to be divided and assigned to the newly created parcels. The
resolution addressed assessments associated with Raven's Place Phases 1 and
2 and Madison Park North Phase 1.
MOTION: Mayor Pro Tem Milne moved, seconded by Councilmember Perales
to approve Resolution No. 4751, relating to Local Improvement District No.
152; providing for the segregation of assessments for certain parcels, referred
to as Raven's Place Phases 1 and 2 and Madison Park North Phase 1,
consistent with RCW 35.44.410; and ratifying and confirming prior acts.
RESULT: Motion carried 7-0
AYES: Mayor Grimm, Mayor Pro Tem Milne, Councilmember
Figueroa, Councilmember Perales, Councilmember
Cotta, Councilmember Hernandez, and Councilmember
Campos
MISCELLANEOUS DISCUSSION
Mr. Stewart provided updates on upcoming community events, including District 2
Business Watch and Community Watch meetings, FIFA-related watch parties, the
ribbon cutting for the Pasco Aquatic Facility, and the public meet-and-greet event for
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Police Chief finalists. He encouraged community participation and noted that
additional information was available through City communication channels.
Councilmember Perales requested that staff investigate cannabis tax revenues
received by the City, stating concerns that the amount received may be lower than
expected based on retail activity. He also requested that staff provide information
regarding options for expanding social equity cannabis retail licenses within the City.
Council discussed the potential economic benefits of additional cannabis-related
revenue, the purpose of the state's social equity licensing program, and concerns
regarding public health, community impacts, and the City's image.
Several Councilmembers expressed differing viewpoints regarding the expansion of
cannabis retail licenses, while others supported reviewing revenue data and receiving
additional information before considering any future policy changes.
By Council consensus, staff was directed to work with the Washington State Liquor
and Cannabis Board regarding cannabis tax revenue allocation and to prepare a
future presentation regarding legal options related to social equity cannabis licenses.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Councilmember Perales abstained from adjourning into Executive Session.
The rest of Council adjourned into Executive Session at 9:06 PM for 25 minutes
returning at 9:31 PM to discuss with legal counsel about current or potential
litigation per RCW 42.30.110(1)(i) and to receive and evaluate complaints or
charges brought against a public officer or employee per RCW 42.30.110(1)(f)
with the City Manager, Deputy City Manager, City Attorney and Management
Analyst, Samantha McCanse.
The City Manager, Deputy City Manager and Management Analyst left the
executive session at 9:25 PM, after the conclusion of the first executive session
topic, discussing with legal counsel about current or potential litigation per RCW
42.30.110(1)(i).
At 9:31 PM Mayor Grimm announced that the Executive Session would continue
for another 10 minutes or until 9:42 PM.
At 9:42 PM Mayor Grimm announced that the Executive Session would continue
for another 5 minutes or until 9:47 PM.
At 9:47 PM Mayor Grimm announced that the Executive Session would continue
for another 5 minutes or until 9:54 PM.
Mayor Grimm called the meeting back to order at 9:54 PM.
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MOTION: Mayor Grimm moved, seconded by Councilmember Cotta to
approve a resolution of the City Council of the City of Pasco, Washington,
censuring Councilmember Leo Perales.
Whereas the Pasco City Council adopted Resolution No. 4498 on September
16, 2024, establishing the Council Rules of Procedure to promote ethical
conduct, confidentiality, professionalism, and orderly government; and
Whereas Section 1 of the Council Rules of Procedure expressly authorizes the
Council to address violations through sanctions, including censure; and
Whereas Councilmember Leo Perales has engaged in a pattern and practice of
disclosing sensitive and confidential information, including details from a recent
internal investigation, actions which have repeatedly placed the City at risk of
legal liability in violation of RCW 42.23.070(4); and
Whereas Councilmember Leo Perales has also engaged in a pattern and
practice of violating Council Rules regarding respectful conduct, specifically
Section D.3, by repeatedly addressing City staff in a demeaning, derogatory, or
accusatory manner, both in person and through email; and
public erode effectiveness, Council such actions Whereas undermine
confidence in the City Council, compromise the City's legal position, and are
corrosive to the morale of City staff;
Now, therefore, be it resolved by the City Council of the City of Pasco,
Washington:
Section 1. The City Council hereby censures Councilmember Leo Perales for
his pattern and practice of conduct unbecoming of a member of the Pasco City
Council and for violations of the Council Rules of Procedure and state law.
Section 2. The City Council warns that further acts of a similar or grievous
nature, including but not limited to additional leaks of confidential information or
retaliation against staff or fellow Councilmembers, will result in additional
sanctions up to and including removal of Councilmember Perales from all
committee and subcommittee assignments.
Section 3. This resolution shall be included in the official records of the City
Council.
RESULT: Motion carried by Roll Call vote 6-0
AYES: Mayor Grimm, Mayor Pro Tem Milne, Councilmember
Figueroa, Councilmember Cotta, Councilmember
Hernandez, and Councilmember Campos
ABSTAIN: Councilmember Perales
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Councilmembers discussed the censure resolution and emphasized the
importance of professionalism, confidentiality, respect for staff, and adherence to
the Council Rules of Procedure.
Several Councilmembers noted that the action was not taken lightly and
expressed hope for improved working relationships moving forward.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 10:03 PM.
PASSED and APPROVED on _______________________.
APPROVED: ATTEST:
Charles Grimm, Mayor Krystle Shanks, Deputy City Clerk
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June 15, 2026