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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026.09.21 Council Minutes MINUTES City Council Regular Meeting 7:00 PM - Monday, September 21, 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: Leo Figueroa, David Milne 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; 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 August 21st Bills and Communications - Approving Claims in the Total Amount of $3,082,453.33 Resolution No. 4783 - Adoption of the Franklin County Solid Waste Management Plan Page 1 of 9 Resolution No. 4784 - Authorizing the City Manager to Execute Purchase and Sale Agreement to Purchase Tract A of Barker Heights Subdivision Resolution No. 4785 - Professional Services Agreement with HDR Engineering, Inc. for the Road 76 Overpass Project Resolution No.4786 - Traffic Safety Program Funding RC Motion: I move to approve the Consent Agenda as read. PROCLAMATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS PUBLIC COMMENTS Rob DiPaiza, Kennewick resident, spoke regarding the proposed changes to shelter operations. He expressed opposition to a pound model and concerns about transitioning to a hybrid model, citing previous unsuccessful attempts and a lack of sufficient before issues shelter existing addressing encouragedHe volunteers. implementing a new program. He also raised concerns about transparency, noting that minutes from a recent ACA meeting had not yet been posted, and emphasized the importance of public involvement in decisions affecting all three cities. He requested clarification of operational policies, non-standard adoptions, and future oversight of the shelter. Kristen, a Pasco resident, spoke in support of maintaining an animal shelter facility and expressed concerns regarding proposed changes to Tri-Cities Animal Services. She questioned the costs and policies associated with the proposed models and raised concerns about volunteer retention, shelter management, and safeguards for future nonprofit contracts. She supported establishing an advisory or oversight board to improve accountability and public trust. She also encouraged the three cities to address the causes of stray and homeless animals through stronger animal welfare ordinances, enforcement,pet licensing,and measures addressing irresponsible breeding and animal sales. Tracy Troutman, President of the Benton Franklin Humane Society, requested that local animal welfare organizations be included in discussions about future shelter operations. She emphasized the expertise and resources nonprofits can provide and asked the cities to allow adequate time to evaluate operational, legal, staffing, facility, veterinary, liability, and funding considerations before adopting a new model. She expressed the local nonprofits’ willingness to partner with the cities. Sabrina Persinger spoke in support of maintaining a full animal shelter and expressed concerns about what would happen to unclaimed animals under an animal-control- only model. She encouraged stronger partnerships with rescues, foster programs, volunteer recruitment, adoption outreach, and spay/neuter efforts. She also requested Page 2 of 9 transparency regarding any proposed length-of-stay policies and safeguards to ensure animals have reasonable opportunities for adoption or transfer. Christy, a Kennewick resident and former Benton County animal control officer, expressed concerns about shelter capacity, potential euthanasia after required holding periods, and the adequacy of the current facility. She criticized the lack of spay/neuter requirements and called for stronger oversight of shelter operations. She opposed changing the shelter model and reiterated her support for an oversight committee, citing past financial and animal welfare issues. She also cautioned against relying on volunteers and rescues to operate or financially support a public shelter. William Lambert, a Kennewick resident and dog trainer, expressed concerns about the current non-standard adoption evaluation process at Tri-Cities Animal Services. He stated that dogs can be placed on the non-standard adoption list based on a single and evaluations multiple for assessment and evaluator’s advocated opportunities for training and rehabilitation before behavioral euthanasia is considered. Tabby professional trainer, dog certified Kennewick resident a Carlson, and expressed concerns about the current dog evaluation process at Tri-Cities Animal Services. She recommended having multiple evaluators, reviewing the evaluation process and policies, and examining how shelter policies are developed. Craig Mills, a Kennewick resident and shelter volunteer, spoke in support of improving the current shelter program rather than adopting a new model. He recommended an oversight committee, a stronger adoption process, increased staffing, and greater financial transparency. He expressed concerns about quick adoptions and returns, understaffing, and staff burnout. Mary Mahoney requested records regarding personal injury claims and insurance costs related to the Pasco Aquatic Center, animal control operations and funding, pending animal cruelty cases, animal research contracts, prior Council meetings, floodplain property permits and costs, and alleged retaliation involving animal control volunteers. She also requested records concerning penalties related to bald eagle deaths and referenced several prior Council meetings and RCW 42.56 in connection with her requests. Jose Iniguez, an award-winning producer and professional artist, discussed his history of He Authority. PublicPascothe volunteer work and service community with expressed concerns about a lawsuit involving community volunteers and the City, noting that the lawsuit was ultimately dismissed but had lasting effects on those involved. He encouraged the Council to support and protect community volunteers and emphasized the importance of integrity, accountability, and verifying information before making statements that could affect a person's reputation. Carl Holder, a Richland resident and longtime downtown Pasco business community member, spoke about the dissolution of the DPDA and the impact of the related lawsuit on community members. He described the situation as unfortunate and Page 3 of 9 expressed concerns about resulting distrust and division in the community. He also spoke in support of an amendment to allow additional cannabis retailers in Pasco. Thomas Granbois, a Pasco resident, commended Brent, Ron and their team for their work on the 2026 Fiery Foods Festival. He also spoke regarding concerns about statements and interactions related to the former DPDA and local business community. He described receiving an email on August 24th from the President of the Latin Business Association, who is also the publisher of La Voz's Hispanic newspaper and and personal containing Republic newspaper, Tri theof co-author Cities threatening statements and expressed concerns about the impact on himself, his family, and the broader community. He encouraged the Council to support a safe and welcoming environment for local business owners and residents. Susan Ayala, a Pasco resident and downtown business owner, expressed concerns about being judged or targeted based on her associations with other downtown business owners and former DPDA members. She said she was named in a lawsuit despite not being involved at the time of the alleged events and emphasized that disagreements among community members should be respected. Ayala expressed support for the downtown community and its success. Elizabeth Norman, a Richland resident, questioned the costs associated with the proposed animal shelter operating models. She raised concerns about the hybrid model’s reliance on an unidentified nonprofit and questioned how funding, animal care, capacity, and medical or behavioral needs would be addressed. Norman requested a side-by-side comparison of the full costs and services associated with each proposed model before a decision is made. Josue Trejo, owner of Guadalajara Style, spoke about his experience operating a business through Pasco Specialty Kitchen and later in West Richland and Kennewick. He described a 2024 event at the Kennewick Public Market where, he alleged, David Cortinas' promised a large Independence Day celebration that was later canceled without the shared Trejo costs. employee in waste food resulting notice, and experience as an example of concerns with Cortinas' actions and communication. Elaine, a Pasco resident and member of the League of Women Voters of Benton and Franklin County, encouraged residents to become informed voters and participate in the upcoming general election. She provided information about voter pamphlets, ballot return deadlines, ballot drop boxes, and resources for researching candidates and issues, and encouraged residents to return ballots early and participate in civil civic engagement. Pedro, a Pasco resident, expressed disappointment and concern regarding alleged references to contacting ICE about downtown business owners. He said such actions could create distrust among local business owners and encouraged the City to consider the potential impact of such conduct and relationships within the community. Former Pasco Mayor Barajas encouraged the Council to support downtown Pasco businesses and residents, emphasizing their importance to the community and local Page 4 of 9 tax base. She shared that she continues to hear from downtown business owners and asked the Council not to overlook the needs of the downtown community. Nancy Cook questioned how the City oversees and monitors the use of public funds provided to City departments, contractors, and community projects. She raised concerns about alleged misuse of funds related to the water department, downtown Pasco, and the animal shelter, and urged the Council to strengthen oversight and accountability for City expenditures. Mayor Grimm called for additional public comment three (3) times and no one else came forward to speak. REPORTS FROM COMMITTEES AND/OR OFFICERS Verbal Reports from Councilmembers Councilmember Cotta reported that interviews for the Arts and Culture Commission were held and went well. He stated that new members would be appointed to the commission soon. Councilmember Campos reported attending the COPA event celebrating Hispanic Heritage on Saturday. He said approximately 250 people attended and described the music, and overall event as a great experience. Councilmember Figueroa reported participating on the interview panel for the City's Public Information Officer position. He said the interviews went well and expressed appreciation for the opportunity to help select a qualified candidate. Mayor Grimm reported participating in the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee meeting, where members discussed how lodging tax funds can be invested back into the community. He also participated in interviews for the Arts and Culture Commission vacancies. He thanked community members for volunteering and serving on City boards and commissions. HEARINGS AND COUNCIL ACTION ON ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS RELATING THERETO Public Hearing & Ordinance No. 4856 - Goodwin Annexation (ANX 2026-002) Community and Economic Development Deputy Director Raymond presented the proposed Goodwin annexation, located between Harris Road and Highway 182 within the Broadmoor master plan area. He reviewed the annexation process and prior milestones and requested that Council conduct the public hearing and adopt Ordinance No. 4856 approving the annexation. MOTION: Councilmember Campos moved, seconded by Councilmember Cotta PUBLIC HEARING Page 5 of 9 Nathan Machiela, Kennewick resident expressed support for the annexation, noting that the property is adjacent to the City, would be served by City utilities, and that annexation would be beneficial to the City of Pasco. MOTION:I move to adopt Ordinance No. 4856, annexing the Goodwin property to the City of Pasco, and 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 ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS NOT RELATING TO HEARINGS Ordinance No. 4857 – Establishing R-3 (Medium-Density Residential) Zoning for the Goodwin Annexation (ZD2026-001) CED Deputy Director Raymond presented the proposed R3 zoning for the annexed property, noting that it is designated for medium-density residential use under the Comprehensive Plan. The Hearing Examiner held a public hearing on August 12 and recommended approval of R3 zoning. Staff requested that Council adopt Ordinance No. 4857 assigning R3 zoning to the property. MOTION: Councilmember Campos moved, seconded by Councilmember Cotta MOTION: I move to adopt Ordinance No. 4857, establishing R-3 (Medium- Density Residential) zoning for the Goodwin Annexation area, as recommended by the Hearing Examiner, and 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 Ordinance No. 4858 - Amending Pasco Municipal Code 25.10.025 "Cannabis Retail Facilities" CED Deputy Director Raymond reviewed the proposed ordinance to increase the City’s cannabis retail license limit from four to five, with two licenses reserved for the State’s social equity program. He noted that Council held a public hearing on September 8 and received substantial public testimony. Staff requested final action on Ordinance No. 4858. Page 6 of 9 MOTION: Councilmember Campos moved, seconded by Councilmember Figueroa MOTION: I move to adopt Ordinance No. 4858, an Ordinance of the City of Pasco, amending Pasco Municipal Code Section 25.10.025 "Cannabis Retail Facilities". RESULT: Motion carried 4-3 AYES: Councilmember Figueroa, Councilmember Perales, Councilmember Hernandez, and Councilmember Campos NAYS: Mayor Grimm, Mayor Pro Tem Milne, and Councilmember Cotta UNFINISHED BUSINESS NEW BUSINESS Tri-Cities Animal Control Facility City services, animalregional of anpresented Stewart Manager overview including current operations, costs, staffing, service levels, and animal intake and sheltering needs. He outlined three potential service models—animal control facility, the responsibilities discussed and and shelter, animal hybrid—and financial implications of each. He noted the need for consistent policies among Pasco, Kennewick, and Richland and requested Council direction on which model to further explore. He also noted that Kennewick’s Council expressed interest in the hybrid model. Council discussed the regional animal services models and emphasized the need for decision. final abefore makingpublic and information additional input Members discussed the costs and service levels of the current shelter model, the potential savings and risks of a hybrid model, and the possibility of privatization. Council also generally supported further exploring the hybrid model while conducting a detailed, line-by-line review of the current budget to identify potential cost savings. Staff will continue discussions with the other cities and return with additional information and next steps. MISCELLANEOUS DISCUSSION City Manager Report City Manager Stewart provided miscellaneous updates, highlighting the Felines and Firefighters adoption event scheduled for September 26 at 10:00 a.m. at the Tri-Cities Animal Shelter, where animals could be adopted for $50, including Page 7 of 9 spay/neuter, vaccinations, and microchipping. He also reported that the Memorial Aquatic Center hosted a statewide high school swimming and diving meet with 29 teams and more than 500 participants, including 16 overnight teams. The event utilized an estimated 400–600 hotel rooms and generated approximately $60,000–$120,000 in direct visitor spending. Mr. Stewart thanked staff for preparing the facility on a tight timeline and for supporting the Ironman Tri-Cities event, noting contributions from the Aquatics and Parks divisions. Councilmember Hernandez announced a Latino Heritage Picnic at Memorial Park on Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The event will include food, activities, and a football tournament, as well as an opportunity for attendees to ask questions of local candidates running for office in November. Councilmember Perales requested updates on several RFPs. Staff reported that two of the three property RFPs received responses and are undergoing follow-up questions, with the goal of bringing them to Council for discussion and possible award in October. The Lewis Street property received no responses. The PSK and Farmers Market RFPs have been reviewed and are scheduled for the first regular Council meeting in October. Staff also plans to present a draft RFP for events at that meeting for Council input before publication. Councilmember Perales also asked about the cost and necessity of using a consultant for national recruitment of the Parks and Recreation Director. Mr. Stewart clarified that “national recruitment” does not involve hiring a consultant; the recruitment is being conducted internally by City staff and is open to applicants nationwide. He noted that professional recruitment services typically cost approximately $20,000–$30,000 and that staff determined the expense was not warranted for this position. Mayor Grimm announced the Air Jubilee at the Pasco Aviation Museum on Saturday from 10:00am to 4:00pm celebrating the 100th anniversary of Pasco's first airmail flight. The event will feature a reenactment of the historic flight, vintage vehicles, food trucks, museums tours, and other activities. EXECUTIVE SESSION ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:38 PM. PASSED and APPROVED on October 19, 2026. ADDITIONAL NOTES Adopted Council Goals (Reference Only) Page 8 of 9 APPROVED: ATTEST: Mayor Grimm, Mayor Gabriela Sanchez, City Clerk Page 9 of 9