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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026.10.05 Council MinutesMINUTES City Council Regular Meeting 7:00 PM - Monday, October 5, 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: Councilmembers attending remotely: Councilmembers absent: 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; Sara Matzen, Human Resources Director; Brent Cook, Police Chief; Maria Serra, Public Works Director; and Gabriela Sanchez, City Clerk The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance. Pledge of Allegiance CONSENT AGENDA Approval of Meeting Minutes for September 8th and September 14th Bills and Communications - Approving Claims in the Total Amount of $5,119,041.21. Arts & Culture Commission Appointments of Eleanor Neff, Destinee Rea, and Aubrieann Johnson Page 1 of 8 Ordinance No. 4860 – Amending PMC 21.60.040, Development Agreement Approval Process Resolution No. 4787 - Urban Growth Area Expansion Applications – CPAM2025- 01 and CPAM2025-02 Resolution No. 4788: Interagency Agreement Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (WSCJTC) Use of Pasco Police Department (RC) MOTION: I move to approve the Consent Agenda as read. PROCLAMATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Mayor Grimm read the Proclamation for Big Bro Joe Day scheduled for October 6, 2026 and presented the Proclamation to Joe Thornton, Big Bro Joe Foundation Founder PUBLIC COMMENTS Mary Mahoney presented concerns regarding Tri-Cities Animal Services, Pasco’s Aquatic Center Phase One expenditures, and various city payment practices. She requested that the City pause spending on the Aquatic Center and pause payments to the City Attorney’s office, the Kurlaw Group, and former Mayor Matt Watkins or his LLC. She asked for clarification on WSU animal-related research contracts, due-process procedures at animal control, and the status of unresolved regional animal-cruelty cases. Mahoney also requested information on the reported 233 dog transfers and 404 cat transfers in 2025, including destinations, any associated payments, and whether notices to pet owners were issued with or without due process. Community A proposed the regarding concerns raised Docsteader member, Street/Highway 76 overpass design, requesting westbound on-ramp and eastbound off-ramp connections to relieve Road 68 congestion. He expressed opposition to the proposed wastewater rate increases for Pasco Processors and Twin City Foods, citing potential job impacts and a pattern of city projects exceeding budget. He urged the City to complete Road 68 improvements in a consistent, full-build format and recoup costs from developers later. Docsteader also questioned the City’s moratorium on data centers and encouraged engagement with nearby jurisdictions experienced with such facilities. He concluded by expressing disappointment over the City’s decision to approve an additional cannabis retailer instead of a Costco. Damian Davis, Richland resident representing the Washington Trust for Historic Preservation, commended the City for its significant investment in downtown Pasco and emphasized the importance of continuing that momentum. He noted that the major financial work has already been completed and encouraged the City to focus on placemaking to integrate downtown fully into the community. Davis highlighted Page 2 of 8 statewide and out-of-state interest in Pasco’s public-private partnership model and the Specialty Kitchen project. He offered to sponsor a City representative to attend next year’s Places Conference and invited Council and staff to reach out for support or collaboration from the Washington Trust, Washington Main Street, and historic preservation groups. Kristen, Pasco resident requested that the cities formally remove the “pound model” from consideration for Tri-Cities Animal Shelter governance, stating that doing so would ease public concern. She emphasized that persistent issues at the shelter— such rebuilding and transparency, ensuring long-term retaining as volunteers, community trust—will not be resolved by changing operating models alone. Kristen noted controversies, ongoing concerns about past lack of oversight, and volunteer-related issues, and urged the Council to identify and address the root causes of recurring problems. She also questioned why an advisory or oversight board has not been established and encouraged the Council to adopt such a structure to improve accountability and prevent repeat issues. She concluded by urging the current Council to take the opportunity to resolve longstanding challenges at the shelter. Amber and conduct representation council for expectations about spoke Weid, following election campaigns. She noted strong public interest in local government information more communicate members council to all encouraged and seven regularly so residents can hear each individual perspective. She expressed concern about negative comments made about a speaker after that person had left a prior meeting and emphasized the importance of maintaining respectful conduct at all times. Ms. Weid stated that elected officials should welcome both positive and critical public feedback and urged the full council to engage openly with the community and ensure all voices on the dais are heard. Mayor Grimm called for additional public comment two (2) times and no one else came forward to speak. REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES AND/OR OFFICERS Verbal Reports from Councilmembers Councilmember Cotta reported attending the Mid-Columbia EMS and Trauma Council meeting, as well as the Washington State Legislative Housing Tour held in the Tri-Cities. He noted discussions with state legislators on obstacles to building more affordable housing, stating that many issues identified fall under state also permit on commented He rather city than jurisdiction authority. processing timelines in Pasco and shared that, in a meeting with the City Manager, efforts are already underway to reduce permit turnaround times to levels more comparable with neighboring cities. Councilmember of Hernandez reported attending the Tri-City Chamber Commerce Elected Officials Reception. He noted that business leaders delivered Page 3 of 8 remarks, food was served, and the event provided an opportunity to meet community members and other attendees. He described the reception as a positive and enjoyable gathering. Councilmember Figueroa reported participating in the Washington State Legislative Housing Tour alongside Councilmember Cotta. He noted it was informative to see how neighboring jurisdictions are approaching mixed-housing and mixed-use development, with some already advancing related projects. He emphasized the value of collaboration and learning from other cities’ experiences to improve Pasco’s processes. Figueroa also echoed concerns regarding longer permit processing times in Pasco and expressed support for efforts to streamline permitting to better address statewide housing needs. Mayor new the Hall, Alex and local with meeting reported Grimm, staff representative for Senator Cantwell, to discuss Pasco’s major federal funding needs, and replacement facility various wastewater the including treatment interstate overpass projects. He noted Hall’s familiarity with the region and interest in supporting local priorities. The Mayor also completed a risk assessment inquiry city within risks perceived to Office Auditor’s State the for related operations. Additionally, he met with the other Tri-Cities mayors at a Chamber of Commerce event to discuss regional priorities and upcoming leadership changes, including the resignation of Chamber CEO Lori in February, and emphasized the importance of selecting a strong successor for the role. HEARINGS AND COUNCIL ACTION ON ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS RELATING THERETO ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS NOT RELATING TO HEARINGS Resolution No. 4789 - Setting a Date to Consider a Notice of Intent to Commence Annexation Proceedings for Soto Annexation (ANX 2026-003) Community and Economics Director Matson presented an annexation request for property located at 1117 Road 52. She reported that the petition requirements have been met, including owner support representing more than 10 percent of the assessed value within the proposed annexation area. The site is located at the southern edge of one of the city’s existing “donut holes,” and annexation would allow the property owner to proceed with development and connect to city utilities. Staff recommended setting a public hearing for October 19 at 7:00 p.m. to consider the full annexation proposal. MOTION: Mayor Pro Tem Milne moved, seconded by Councilmember Perales MOTION: I move to approve Resolution No. 4789, setting 7:00 p.m. on October 19, 2026, as the time and date for a public meeting with the initiating parties to consider the Soto Notice of Intention to Commence Annexation Proceedings for Parcel No. 119542042, currently addressed 1117 Road 52 (Lot 2 and a portion of Lot 1 of Short Plat No. 98-6), generally located south of West Court Street, north of West Sylvester Street, west of Road 44, and east of Page 4 of 8 Road 52, within Section 26, Township 9 North, Range 29 East, W.M. 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. 4790 - Authorizing the Sale of City-Owned Real Property, Parcel No. 113300252 Deputy City Manager Sigdel, reported on the proposed sale of a City-owned parcel located at Argent Road and 20th Avenue, noting that the property has been under discussion for several years with multiple prospective buyers. She explained that delays were primarily due to concerns related to the site’s potential classification as a critical habitat area, which would have required significant mitigation ordinance proposed a of recent the With efforts. development addressing these concerns, the issue has been resolved to the satisfaction of the developer. Staff requested final Council action to approve the property sale and offered to answer any questions. MOTION: Mayor Pro Tem Milne moved, seconded by Councilmember Perales MOTION: I move to approve Resolution No. 4790, approving the sale of certain City-owned real property located at the corner of North 20th Avenue and West Argent, identified as Parcel Number 113300252 and authorizing the City Manager to execute the Purchase and Sale Agreement. RESULT: Motion carried 7-0 AYES: Mayor Grimm, Mayor Pro Tem Milne, Councilmember Figueroa, Councilmember Perales, Councilmember Cotta, Councilmember Hernandez, and Councilmember Campos UNFINISHED BUSINESS NEW BUSINESS Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for 2027-2032 Projects Deputy City Manager, Sigdel provided an overview of the draft six-year Capital Improvement Plan, noting that extensive public outreach occurred in March and that the plan reflects both community feedback and current infrastructure needs. She emphasized that the CIP is a planning document, not a budget, and that project timelines and costs shift as funding becomes available. The plan outlines approximately $700 million in projects across 140 items, with about 24% of Page 5 of 8 funding currently secured and the remainder to be pursued through grants, bonds, and other restricted revenue sources. She highlighted that the Butterfield Water Treatment Plant replacement represents roughly 40% of total projected costs, making 2029 the largest spending year. Sigdel also explained the distinctions between different funding sources, their legally restricted uses, and how unsecured projects do not move into construction until funding is obtained. She reviewed the benefits of early investment, challenges of rising costs, and the relationship between the CIP and the upcoming budget discussions. Staff noted that the CIP is updated annually and will continue to adapt based on council decisions and funding outcomes. Engineering Manager Avetisyan summarized major transportation and utility projects in the CIP. Key transportation items included the Road 76 Overpass now in intersection 76 Sandifur/Road the grant partial with design funding, improvements scheduled for construction next year, and several grant-funded pedestrian safety upgrades and pavement preservation projects. On the utilities side, he highlighted the Butterfield Water Treatment Plant replacement, capacity upgrades at the West Pasco Treatment Plant, sewer main upsizing to support growth, continued irrigation system expansion in Broadmoor, and lift-station improvements funded largely by grants. Stormwater work will focus on infiltration improvements in problem areas. Interim Parks & Recreation Director Pashon, outlined upcoming parks projects, including signature new several and park a future for planning community neighborhood parks such as Road 54/Irwin, Road 48 Central Park, a dog park near the animal services site, and Road 80 Park, which is expected to open next year. A new eight-field softball complex is proposed, with land acquisition targeted for most funding though still is 2029, as early as construction and 2027 unsecured. Renewal projects include ongoing MLB-required improvements at Gesa Stadium, Memorial Park field conversions with the school district, irrigation and lighting upgrades, and continued xeriscaping. Additional highlights included planned Complex Sports Street A North, Park Peanuts at improvements expansion, marina dock replacements, and trail system enhancements such as levee crossings, pathway connections, and new bike features at Big Cross. Deputy City Manager Sigdel reviewed planned facility investments, including funding reinvestment Center, Community MLK the 2 Phase for needs of requirements at Sun Willows Golf Course, and the potential replacement of the Memorial needs City for maintenance highlighted She liner. Pool ongoing facilities, including generators, HVAC systems, and elevator replacements, as well as future decisions related to the Hopkins Library building and demolition of the old animal shelter. Sigdel also noted that land acquisition for future fire stations remains a key long-term planning priority as the city continues to grow. Chief Cook reported that the Police Headquarters project remains on the CIP but is on hold pending funding and future space needs. He noted that funding has been secured for improvements to the Police Academy, including security fencing, restroom capacity, all classroom addressing and upgrades, expanded Page 6 of 8 longstanding facility deficiencies. He stated that no council action is requested at this time, and staff will return at a future meeting with revisions for CIP adoption. Transportation Benefit District Program Implementation Engineering Manager Avestiyan reviewed the pavement condition data and outlined funding projections for the TBD, estimating about $2.3 million in annual revenue. He explained how road condition analysis and traffic levels inform pavement options implementation four preservation and priorities presented ranging from annual programs to five- and ten-year bonding strategies. He noted that staff recommends Option 2, a two-year program, and asked Council for direction, TBD other to funds portion of allocate to whether including a transportation programs such as traffic calming. Presentation of Responses for the Farmers Market & Pasco Specialty Kitchen Request for Proposals Interim Parks & Recreation Director Pashon, reported on the proposals received for potential outside management of the Farmers Market and the Pasco Specialty Kitchen. Four proposals were reviewed. For the Farmers Market, costs were comparable to continued City operation. For the Specialty Kitchen, two proposals exceeded projected City operating costs, and one was potentially less expensive but left financial risk with the City and lacked full cost clarity. Staff recommended pausing any decision until after upcoming budget discussions and requested Council’s direction. Presentation - Operation & Management of City Community Events proposed future for framework a presented McCanse Analyst Management planning and operation of City-supported community events. Based on resource needs, community survey feedback, and council input, staff grouped events into three categories: city-led, events suitable for competitive RFP, and events that may transition to community-led partnerships with City support. Staff recommended issuing an RFP for three events—Fiery Foods Festival, Winterfest, and the Grand Old Fourth fireworks—under a model where operators assume planning responsibility and financial risk while the City provides limited support. She requested council feedback on event categorization, whether additional events should be added to the RFP, and any desired changes to the proposed approach. Presentation - 2027 Ad Valorem Tax and 27-28 General Fund Preliminary Revenues Finance Director Hebdon provided an overview of the upcoming budget process, Page 7 of 8 including property tax options for 2027. He explained that state law limits annual increases to 1% and presented two levy options, noting staff recommends taking the full 1% increase. He reviewed preliminary revenue projections for the 2027–28 biennium, highlighting that general fund revenues remain relatively flat while costs continue to rise. Hebdon summarized key revenue categories—property tax, sales tax, utility tax, fees, and grants—and noted that sales tax growth is leveling off. He stated that this presentation is an initial overview and that further budget discussions will continue at upcoming meetings. MISCELLANEOUS DISCUSSION City Manager Report City Manager Stewart introduced City employee Darrin Gerlach, who attended the meeting to observe council operations. He announced that the City has been awarded a $1 million Public Works Board grant to support land acquisition for the Butterfield Water Treatment Plant expansion. Stewart also reminded the public that irrigation season ends October 12 and encouraged winterizing sprinkler systems. He noted that National Coffee with a Cop Day will be held Wednesday at Swag Coffee Bar from 9 to 11 a.m. EXECUTIVE SESSION ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 10:08 PM. PASSED and APPROVED on October 19, 2026 ADDITIONAL NOTES Adopted Council Goals (Reference Only) APPROVED: ATTEST: Charles Grimm, Mayor Gabriela Sanchez, City Clerk Page 8 of 8