HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-02-20 Council Meeting
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CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Barb Tolbert
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
Mayor Barb Tolbert – Ashleigh
APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
Mayor Pro Tem Jesica Stickles
INTRODUCTION OF SPECIAL GUESTS AND PRESENTATIONS
PROCLAMATIONS
PUBLIC COMMENT
For members of the public who wish to speak to the Council about any matter not on the Public Hearing
portion of the meeting. Please limit remarks to three minutes.
CONSENT AGENDA
Mayor Pro Tem Jesica Stickles
1. Minutes of the October 19 and October 26, 2020 Council meetings and
October 26, 2020 Audit Exit Conference ATTACHMENT A
2. Accounts Payable
Approval of EFT Payments and Claims Checks #101217 through #101308
dated October 20, 2020 through November 2, 2020 for $2,556,105.96
3. Resolution Establishing the City as a Public Aircraft Operator ATTACHMENT B
Arlington City Council Meeting
Monday, November 2, 2020 at 7:00 pm
SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS: The City of Arlington strives to provide accessible meetings for people with disabilities. Please contact the
ADA coordinator at (360) 403-3441 or 711 (TDD only) prior to the meeting date if special accommodations are required.
PUBLIC HEARING
1. Ordinance Adopting the 2021/2022 Biennial Budget ATTACHMENT C
Staff presentation: Paul Ellis
2. Resolution Establishing the 2021 General Property Tax Levy ATTACHMENT D
Staff presentation: Paul Ellis
3. Resolution Establishing the 2021 EMS Tax Levy ATTACHMENT E
Staff presentation: Paul Ellis
4. Ordinance Amending Certain Sections of the Arlington Municipal Code ATTACHMENT F
Chapter 20.64 Relating to Floodplain Regulations and Declaring an Emergency
Staff Presentation: Marc Hayes
Council Liaison: Mayor Pro Tem Jesica Stickles
NEW BUSINESS
1. Resolution Approving the Regional Fire Authority ATTACHMENT G
Planning Document and Annexation
Staff Presentation: Paul Ellis
Council Liaison: Councilmember Marilyn Oertle
2. Interlocal Agreement to Share Costs with North County ATTACHMENT H
Regional Fire Authority
Staff Presentation: Paul Ellis
Council Liaison: Councilmember Marilyn Oertle
3. Revisions to City Council Rules of Procedure and Code of Ethics ATTACHMENT I
Staff Presentation: Steve Peiffle / Paul Ellis
Council Liaison: Mayor Pro Tem Jesica Stickles
COMMENTS FROM COUNCILMEMBERS
INFORMATION/ADMINISTRATOR & STAFF REPORTS
MAYOR’S REPORT
EXECUTIVE SESSION
RECONVENE
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Pro Tem Jesica Stickles / Mayor Barb Tolbert
DRAFT
Page 1 of 3
October 19, 2020
Councilmembers Present: Mike Hopson, Michele Blythe, Jan Schuette, Marilyn Oertle, Jesica Stickles, Debora Nelson, and Don Vanney.
Council Members Absent: None.
Staff Present: Mayor Barb Tolbert, Paul Ellis, Sarah Lopez, Bryan Terry, Jim Kelly, City Attorney Steve Peiffle, and Wendy Van Der Meersche.
Also Known to be Present: Jenna Estep, Grace Saenz, Laura Meno, and six YouTube viewers. Mayor Barb Tolbert called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m., and the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call followed.
APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA Mayor Pro Tem Jesica Stickles moved to approve the agenda as presented. Councilmember Marilyn Oertle seconded the motion, which passed with a unanimous vote.
INTRODUCTION OF SPECIAL GUESTS AND PRESENTATIONS Mayor Barb Tolbert shared a photo and spoke about Skip Smith, who was chosen as the recipient of the October 2020 Mayor’s Volunteer Award for 21 years on the cemetery board. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the award was delivered to Mrs. Smith at her home.
PROCLAMATIONS Mayor Pro Tem Jesica Stickles read the National Cyber Security Awareness Month proclamation.
PUBLIC COMMENT None.
CONSENT AGENDA Mayor Pro Tem Jesica Stickles moved and Councilmember Marilyn Oertle seconded the motion to approve the Consent Agenda that was unanimously carried: 1. Minutes of the October 5 and October 12, 2020 Council meetings and October 9, 2020 Council retreat 2. Accounts Payable Approval of EFT Payments and Claims Checks #101095 through #101216 dated October 6, 2020 through October 19, 2020 for $1,225,438.45 and Approval of Payroll EFT Payments and Checks #29744 through #29919 dated September 1, 2020 through September 30, 2020 for $1,595,410.74 3. Road Mitigation Agreement Renewal with Snohomish County 4. Budget Authority to use CARES ACT funding for Airport Vehicle
Minutes of the Arlington
City Council Zoom Meeting
Minutes of the City of Arlington City Council Meeting October 19, 2020
Page 2 of 3
PUBLIC HEARING None.
NEW BUSINESS
Youth Council Appointments Community Revitalization Manager Sarah Lopez requested Council re-appoint the following students to the Arlington Youth Council for the 2020-2021school year: Enija Reed, Olivia (Grace) Saenz, Laura Meno and Aristala Heaton. Eleven applicants were interviewed, and Ms. Lopez requested Council appoint Savanna Soltero, Jenna Estep, and Taylor Helle as new members of the Arlington Youth Council. Youth Council members Grace Saenz, Laura Meno, and Jenna Estep joined the Zoom meeting, and introduced themselves. Mayor Pro Tem Jesica Stickles moved and Councilmember Debora Nelson seconded the motion to consent to the appointments of Enija Reed, Olivia (Grace) Saenz, Laura Meno and Aristala Heaton, Savanna Soltero, Jenna Estep, and Taylor Helle to the 2020-2021 Arlington Youth Council. The motion passed unanimously.
Replacement of Access Control/Camera System for Police Department IT Director Bryan Terry requested Council approve a request for additional funding for replacement of police department access control system. Councilmember Marilyn Oertle moved and Councilmember Don Vanney seconded the motion to allocate the additional $40,819.24 from the IT Program Development Fund to authorize the purchase of the Verkada Camera and Access Control system from McKinstry. The motion passed unanimously.
Resolution Declaring an Emergency for the Fine Screen Repair/Replacement at the
Water Reclamation Facility (WRF) Public Works Director Jim Kelly requested Council approve a resolution declaring an emergency condition in response to failing fine screens at the Water Reclamation Facility and waive Public Works bid requirements allowing staff to initiate repairs.
Councilmember Debora Nelson moved and Councilmember Michele Blythe seconded the motion to approve the resolution declaring an emergency condition at the Water Reclamation Facility and allow staff to waive Public Works Bid Requirements to initiate repairs, and authorized the Mayor to sign the resolution, pending final approval by the City Attorney. The motion passed unanimously.
Notice of Planned Final Action Eminent Domain Proceedings City Attorney Steve Peiffle requested Council approve the ordinance authorizing the City to proceed with condemnation proceedings, if necessary, regarding the property at 7715 – 204th Street NE. Mayor Pro Tem Jesica Stickles moved and Councilmember Marilyn Oertle seconded the motion to approve the ordinance authorizing the City to proceed with condemnation proceedings, if necessary, regarding the property at 7715 – 204th Street NE. The motion passed unanimously.
Minutes of the City of Arlington City Council Meeting October 19, 2020
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COMMENTS FROM COUNCILMEMBERS None.
ADMINISTRATOR & STAFF REPORTS None.
MAYOR’S REPORT None.
EXECUTIVE SESSION None.
ADJOURNMENT With no further business to come before the Council, the meeting was adjourned at 7:23 p.m. _________________________________________ Barbara Tolbert, Mayor
DRAFT
Page 1 of 5
Council Chambers 110 East Third Street October 26, 2020
Councilmembers Present: Mike Hopson, Marilyn Oertle, Debora Nelson, Don Vanney, Jan Schuette, Jesica Stickles and Michele Blythe.
Council Members Absent: None.
Staff Present: Mayor Barb Tolbert, Paul Ellis, Kristin Garcia, Jonathan Ventura, Marc Hayes, Sarah Lopez City Attorney Steve Peiffle, Bryan Terry, and Ashleigh Scott.
Also Known to be Present: Forty (40) YouTube Views.
Mayor Barb Tolbert called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm, and the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call followed.
APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA Mayor Pro Tem Jesica Stickles moved to approve the agenda as presented. Councilmember Marilyn Oertle seconded the motion, which passed with a unanimous vote.
INTRODUCTION OF SPECIAL GUESTS AND PRESENTATIONS None.
WORKSHOP ITEMS – NO ACTION WAS TAKEN
Resolution Establishing the City as a Public Aircraft Operator Police Chief Jonathan Ventura discussed a resolution establishing the City as a Public Aircraft Operator. The Police Department has been beta-testing the feasibility of utilizing unmanned aerial system(s) (UAS) with other public safety agencies over the past year. The Police Department has reached a point where it’s ready to implement its own policies and standard operating procedures. Part of the process moving forward will require application to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Said application requires a letter from the City Attorney. Unmanned Ariel Systems (UAS), commonly referred to as drones, are transforming law enforcement operations and can significantly reduce operational expenses. Common areas for UAS deployment include; traffic collision reconstructions, search and rescue, crime scene documentation, and Police K9 tracking and security. As the City of Arlington continues to grow, many departments struggle to keep pace with the expanded demands for service and the police department is no exception. These increased demands on police resources is
Minutes of the Arlington
City Council Workshop
Minutes of the City of Arlington City Council Workshop October 26, 2020
Page 2 of 5
resulting in the need to find new efficiencies such as taking advantage of emerging technologies like UAS. Discussion followed with Chief Ventura answering Council questions.
Review of Preliminary Budget for 2021/2022 Finance Director Kristin Garcia reviewed the Preliminary 2021 – 2022 Budget. A retreat was held on October 9, 2020 for review and discussion on budget items. A change was made to the budget based on discussions during the retreat – the firework permit revenues were removed. The preliminary budget will be made available to the public on October 26, 2020, and a public hearing will be held on November 2, 2020 to allow for public comment on the proposed preliminary budget. The final budget ordinance will be brought to Council on November 16, 2020 for action. Discussion followed with Mrs. Garcia answering Council questions.
Resolution for Proposed 2021 General Property Tax Levy Finance Director Kristin Garcia reviewed two resolutions to establish the regular property tax levy for 2021 and authorizing an increase in tax levy pursuant to RCW 84.55.120 and increase in limit factor for maximum levy capacity pursuant to RCW 85.55.0101. The first resolution establishes the 2021 regular property tax and the Resolution must state the dollar amount and percentage of the increase. The amount of the increase is $87,797.22, a 2% increase from last year’s levy. The 2% increase is broken down as follows; $1 increase from last year’s levy $43,375.16 and 1% of banked capacity of $42,422.06. Additionally, under state law, local governments with a population of 10,000 or more are limited to increase property taxes by the lesser of 1% or the rate of inflation (implicit price deflator or IPD). The IPD for 2020 is .602% which means that in order to receive the full 1%, a substantial need resolution must be adopted to increase the limit factor to the full 1%. The substantial need resolution must be passed by a supermajority of the Council (majority + 1 = 5 votes). A public hearing will be held on November 2, 2020 to allow for public comment on the proposed 2021 regular property tax levy. Final resolutions will be brought to Council on November 16, 2020 for action. Resolutions must be delivered to Snohomish County no later than November 25, 2020. A retreat was held on October 6, 2020 to review and discuss the City’s 2021 – 2022 preliminary budget and proposed increase in the regular property tax levy. The preliminary budget document was placed on file with the public on October 26, 2020. Discussion followed with Mrs. Garcia answering Council questions.
Resolution for Proposed 2021 EMS Tax Levy Finance Director Kristin Garcia reviewed resolutions to establish the EMS Tax Levy for 2021 and a Resolution of the City of Arlington authorizing an increase in tax levy capacity pursuant to RCW 84.55.120 and an increase in limit factor for maximum levy capacity pursuant to RCW 85.55.0101. Two resolutions are being presented to Council set the EMS Tax Levy for 2021. The first resolution establishes the 2021 EMS Tax Levy and the resolution must state the dollar amount and percentage of the increase. The amount of the increase is $10,268.86, a 1%
Minutes of the City of Arlington City Council Workshop October 26, 2020
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increase from last year’s levy. Additionally, under state law, local governments with a population of 10,000 or more are limited to increase property taxes by the lesser of 1% or the rate of inflation (implicit price deflator or IPD). The IPD for 2020 is .602% which means that in order to receive the full 1%, a substantial need resolution must be adopted to increase the limit factor to the full 1%. The substantial need resolution must be passed by a supermajority of the council (majority + 1 = 5 votes). A public hearing will be held on November 2, 2020 to allow for public comment on the proposed 2021 EMS Tax Levy. Final resolutions will be brought to council on November 16, 2020 for action. Resolutions must be delivered to Snohomish County no later than November 25, 2020. A retreat was held on October 6, 2020 to review and discuss the city’s 2021 – 2022 preliminary budget and proposed increase in the EMS tax levy. The preliminary budget document was placed on file with the public on October 26, 2020. Discussion followed with Mrs. Garcia answering Council questions.
Request to Remove Moratorium for Special Events City Attorney Steve Peiffle reviewed the resolution that was approved at the June 15, 2020 City Council meeting, which approved a cessation of processing special event permits, which included not accepting applications for, or approving, any special events permits thorough August 30, 2020. Therefore, events allowed under the Governor’s order can now be issued a City special event permit.
RFA Planning Document Discussion City Administrator Paul Ellis reviewed the recommendation to adopt proposed North County Regional Fire Authority (NCRFA) plan amendments that included the City’s portion of employee liabilities and the City’s portion of reserves. The proposed NCRFA Plan Amendment is to accomplish annexation of the City of Arlington fire suppression and emergency medical response delivery responsibility into the NCRFA. The Planning Committee unanimously recommends adoption of the Plan Amendment so that the question of annexation may be submitted to the Arlington voters in February of 2021. A subcommittee includes two members of the Arlington City Council – Jesica Stickles and Marilyn Oertle, and two members of the North Snohomish County Regional Fire Authority – Commissioner Larry Longley and Commissioner Greg Oaks. The subcommittee, along with staff support and a facilitator, began meeting together in January of 2020. They have met 16 times, developing the plan amendment, which provides a detailed plan for the proposed annexation of the City of Arlington. Discussion followed with Mr. Ellis answering Council questions.
Interlocal Agreement with North County Regional Fire Authority (NCRFA) for Cost
Sharing City Administrator Paul Ellis reviewed the Interlocal Agreement with North County Fire Authority regarding the RFA Annexation expenses. The Interlocal Agreement with North County Regional Fire Authority provides for a cost share for professional services provided to the RFA Planning Committee during the group’s study of potential areas NCRFA and the City of Arlington could collaborate. The shared costs
Minutes of the City of Arlington City Council Workshop October 26, 2020
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include, Karen Reed Consulting LLC. for $49,192.00, and Liz Loomis Public Affairs for $55,000.00, election costs are $35,000.00, and legal fees to be determined. City of Arlington and North County Regional Fire Authority formed a joint committee in January 2020 to investigate areas the two organization could collaborate to increase the effectiveness of the service provided to both communities. The committee agreed unanimously that Arlington’s annexation into NCRFA would create the greatest effectiveness. Discussion followed with Mr. Ellis answering Council questions.
Revisions to City Council Rules of Procedure and Code of Ethics City Attorney Steve Peiffle reviewed possible revisions to City Council Rule of Procedure and Code of Ethics. The Council is asked to review the City Council Rule of Procedure for possible changes regarding remote access to meetings. Discussion followed with Mr. Peiffle answering Council questions.
Ordinance for Floodplain Regulations Chapter 20.64 AMC Community and Economic Development Director Marc Hayes reviewed the adoption of Arlington Municipal Code Chapter 20.64 – Floodplain Development Regulations. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) periodically conducts Flood Hazard Determinations that affect the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) and the Flood Insurance Study report for the City of Arlington. Because of these updates, certain revisions to the City’s regulations are required. Arlington Municipal Code Chapter 20.64 – Floodplain Development Regulations are those regulations. This Ordinance allows for the permanent adoption of the required revisions. At the May 4, 2020 Council meeting, the City Council approved an emergency Ordinance, amending sections of Arlington Municipal Code, Chapter 20.64 – Floodplain Development Regulations. This emergency Ordinance allowed Council to adopt the required revisions outside of the typical process of a Public Hearing, per AMC 20.96.120(b), to adhere the required FEMA adoption date of June 19, 2020. The Ordinance is however, required to be heard at a public hearing within 6 months of its adoption. A Public Hearing, at a City Council meeting, will be held on November 2, 2020 for these amendments to be heard, and final adoption to be made. Discussion followed with Mr. Hayes answering Council questions.
Community & Economic Development Monthly Report Community and Economic Development Director Marc Hayes reviewed the September 2020 monthly report. Discussion followed with Mr. Hayes answering Council questions.
ADMINISTRATOR AND STAFF REPORTS None.
MAYOR’S REPORT Mayor Tolbert gave information from Snohomish County regarding voting and voting security at in-person voting locations and ballot drop boxes. It was also stated that if you see
Minutes of the City of Arlington City Council Workshop October 26, 2020
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ballot drop box vandalism or are receiving harassment to call your local police department for assistance.
COMMENTS FROM COUNCILMEMBERS None.
COUNCILMEMBER REPORTS Councilmembers Jesica Stickles and Mike Hopson provided brief updates, while Councilmembers Debora Nelson, Don Vanney, Marilyn Oertle, Michele Blythe and Jan Schuette had nothing to report this evening.
PUBLIC COMMENT None.
REVIEW OF CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS FOR NEXT MEETING Council discussed and agreed to place the following items on the Consent Agenda for the November 2, 2020 Council meeting: 1. Resolution Establishing the City as a Public Aircraft Operator 9. Ordinance for Floodplain Regulations Chapter 20.64 AMC
EXECUTIVE SESSION None.
ADJOURNMENT With no further business to come before the Council, the meeting was adjourned at 8:50 p.m. _________________________________________ Barbara Tolbert, Mayor
Minutes of the City of Arlington
Audit Exit Zoom Conference Executive Conference Room 238 N. Olympic Avenue October 26, 2020
Councilmembers Present: Mike Hopson, Debora Nelson, Jan Schuette, Don Vanney, Marilyn Oertle and Michele Blythe.
Council Members Absent: Jesica Stickles.
Staff Present: Mayor Barb Tolbert, Paul Ellis, Kristin Garcia, Sheri Amundson and Ashleigh Scott.
Also Known to be Present: Assistant Audit Manager Courtney Amonsen, Audit Lead Dalton Nield and Program Manager Kristina Baylor. The special meeting was called to order at 11:30 a.m. Finance Director, Kristin Garcia introduced City of Arlington staff that was present.
DISCUSSION
Annual State Audit Exit Conference Kristina Baylor started the meeting with introducing the audit staff and their roles with the Auditor’s Office. The report describes the overall results and conclusions for the areas that were examined. In those selected areas, City operations complied, in all material respects, with applicable state laws, regulations, and its own policies, and provided adequate controls over the safeguarding of public resources. In keeping with general practices, they did not examine every transaction, activity, policy, internal control, or area. As a result, no information was provided on the areas that were not examined. Dalton Nield stated that the audit report was based on a risk assessment for the year ending December 31, 2019, and the areas were those representing the highest risk of fraud, loss, abuse, or noncompliance. The risk-based audit approach focused on accounts payable (general disbursements, credit cards, and EFTS), procurement (purchasing exemptions), cash receipting (timeliness and completeness of deposits), financial condition and the open public meetings (documents of minutes, executive sessions and special meetings). Courtney Amonsen reviewed the Independent Auditor’s Report that states – in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America and the standards applicable to financial audits contained in Government Auditing Standards, issued by the Comptroller General of the United States, the financial statements of the City
of Arlington, as of and for the year ended December 31, 2019, and the related notes to the financial statements, which collectively comprise the City’s financial statements, and have issued the report thereon dated October 26, 2020. They issued an unmodified opinion on the fair presentation of the City’s financial statements in accordance with its regulatory basis of accounting. They issued an adverse opinion on the fair presentation with regard to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP) because the financial statements are prepared by the City using accounting practices prescribed by state law and the State Auditor’s Budgeting, Accounting and Reporting System (BARS) manual described in Note 1, which is a basis of accounting other than GAAP. The effects on the financial statements of the variances between the basis of accounting described in Note 1 and accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, although not reasonably determinable, are presumed to be material. As discussed in Note 6 to the financial statements, during the year ending December 31, 2019, the City adopted new accounting guidance for presentation and disclosure of postemployment benefits other than pensions, as required by the BARS Manual. As discussed in Note 11 to the financial statements, in February 2020, a state of emergency was declared that could have a negative financial effect on the City. Ms. Amonsen continued to discuss the Internal Control and Compliance over Financial Reporting by stating no material weaknesses or significant deficiencies in internal control, and there were no instances of material noncompliance identified. Closing remarks entailed the audit cost came in about $4,500 less than anticipated due to minimal travel expenses and being able to communicate virtually over in-person due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The next audit is scheduled for the summer of 2021, and will cover Accountability, Financial Statement and Federal Programs. The report will be made public in the next 1-2 weeks and located through their website, following an audit survey to be completed by City staff. The meeting concluded with Mr. Nield thanking City officials and staff for timely communications throughout the audit process. He also thanked Kristin Garcia, Sheri Amundson and Colette Campbell and recognized all other staff who maintain well organized records. The meeting was opened for questions and/or comments with Councilmember Jan Schuette asking if during the audit process, they found things that worked well, and if they would have options for future audits moving forward. Kristina Baylor, the Program Manager replied that there have been discussions on this topic and stated the alternatives could be virtual, in-person or hybrid – a mix of both, depending on the circumstances.
ADJOURNMENT With no further business to be conducted, the special meeting was adjourned at 12:00 p.m.
___________________________________________ Barbara Tolbert, Mayor
City of Arlington Council Agenda Bill Item: CA #3 Attachment B
ready to implement its own policies and standard operating procedures. Part of the process moving
include; Traffic Collision Reconstructions, Search and Rescue, Crime Scene Documentation, and Police K9 Tracking and Security. As the City of Arlington continues to grow, many department struggle to keep pace with the expanded demands for service and the Police Department is no exception. These increased
RESOLUTION NO. 2020-XXX
RESOLUTION NO. 2020-XXX
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF ARLINGTON ESTABLISHING THE CITY AS A PUBLIC
AIRCRAFT OPERATOR
WHEREAS, the City of Arlington is a municipal corporation under the laws of the
State of Washington; and
WHEREAS, the City intends to begin using small unmanned remotely controlled
aircraft (drones) for the purpose of providing emergency responders a better situational
awareness profile when operating at emergency scenes; and
WHEREAS, the City does not intend to operate the drones for compensation or
hire; and
WHEREAS, the City Council deems it appropriate to request that the Federal
Aviation Administration (FAA) authorize such drone usage;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ARLINGTON,
WASHINGTON AS FOLLOWS:
1. The City hereby intends to become a Public Aircraft Operator as such term is
defined and regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration; and
2. The City Attorney is directed to issue a Public Declaration Letter consistent
with the terms of this Resolution.
ADOPTED by the City Council and APPROVED by the Mayor this _______ day of
_______________________, 2020.
CITY OF ARLINGTON
_______________________________
Barbara Tolbert, Mayor
ATTEST:
________________________________
Wendy Van Der Meersche, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
________________________________
Steven J. Peiffle, City Attorney
STEVEN J. PEIFFLE 103 NORTH STREET PHONE (360) 435-2168
Steve@snolaw.com POST OFFICE BOX 188 FAX (360) 435-6060
ARLINGTON, WA 98223-0188
October 27, 2020
Federal Aviation Administration
Scott J. Gardner, Acting Air Traffic Manager
Unmanned Aircraft Tactical Operations, AJV-115
490 L’Enfant Plaza SW, Suite 7105
Washington DC 20024
Re: Municipal/Public operation of Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems
Dear Acting Manager Gardner:
The City of Arlington, Washington is requesting to operate as a public aircraft
operator of small unmanned aircraft systems (SUAS) as defined in 14 CFR § 107.3. The
City of Arlington is an independent local government entity in Washington established
under the Optional Municipal Code, Revised Code of Washington (RCW) Chapter 35A.
As general counsel for the City of Arlington, I certify that the City is a political
subdivision of the State of Washington as defined in 49 U.S.C. § 40102(a) (41)(C). The
City will be operating SUAS in support of emergency personnel and understands and will
comply with all restrictions and provisions under its Certificate of Authorization (COA).
All aircraft to be used in City operations will be SUAS owned and operated by the
City or other authorized municipal agencies. The SUAS will not be used for commercial
purposes or to carry any individual in accordance with 49 U.S.C. § 40125(b). The City will
not operate the SUAS for compensation or hire in reference to 49 U.S.C. § 40125(b).
If you have any questions or concerns, please call (360) 435-2168.
Very sincerely,
BAILEY, DUSKIN & PEIFFLE, P.S.
Steven J. Peiffle
Arlington City Attorney
SJP/ms
City of Arlington Council Agenda Bill Item: PH #1 Attachment C COUNCIL MEETING DATE: November 2, 2020 SUBJECT: Ordinance Adopting the City of Arlington Biennial Budget for the Years 2021/2022 ATTACHMENTS: Preliminary 2021–2022 Budget, including Ordinance with Exhibits A - D DEPARTMENT OF ORIGIN Finance; Kristin Garcia, Director 360-403-3431 EXPENDITURES REQUESTED: 2021 - $73,526,745 (Exhibit A, page 21) 2022 - $66,441,984 (Exhibit B, page22)BUDGET CATEGORY: All Funds BUDGETED AMOUNT: See above – to establish the 2021 – 2022 biennial budget LEGAL REVIEW: DESCRIPTION: At the October 26, 2020 workshop, council directed staff to reduce the general property tax increase from 2% to 1%, removing the banked levy capacity. The budget has been updated to reflect the change. Ending fund balance was reduced to offset the reduction in revenue. The ending fund balance is maintained at 2 months of operating expenses but is reduced to less than 1.5 months of operating expenses in 2022 – fiscal policy requires at least one month of operating expenses in reserve. The budget already includes department operating reductions from 2020, no new discretionary spending, an elimination of 1 FTE and 2 unfilled FTE’s. Alternatives reviewed to offset the property tax revenue reduction included; reduce an additional .5 FTE, place a moratorium on funding the public art fund or eliminate the transfer
Public Hearing. At the November 16, 2020 Council meeting the recommended motion will be, “I move to approve an Ordinance Adopting the City of Arlington Biennial Budget for the Years 2021/2022, and authorize the Mayor to sign it”.
ORDINANCE NO. 2020 – XXX
AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE CITY OF ARLINGTON BIENNIAL BUDGET
FOR THE YEARS 2019 – 2020
WHEREAS, subsequent to due notice and public hearing thereon, the City Council of the City
of Arlington has approved the biennial budget for the years 2021 – 2022;
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ARLINGTON, WASHINGTON DO
ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
Section One. The following expenditures budget as set forth in Exhibits A and B, containing the
totals set forth for each fund of the years 2011 – 2022 is hereby adopted.
Section Two. The following salary schedules as set forth in Exhibits C and D, representing
positions and pay ranges as reflected in the 2021 – 2022 budget is hereby adopted.
Section Three. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect on January 1, 2021.
PASSED by the City Council of the City of Arlington on this 16th day of November, 2020.
ATTEST: CITY OF ARLINGTON
______________________________ ______________________
Wendy Van Der Meersche, City Clerk Barbara Tolbert, Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_________________________
Steve Peiffle, City Attorney
City of Arlington Council Agenda Bill Item: PH #2 Attachment DCOUNCIL MEETING DATE: November 2, 2020 SUBJECT: Public Hearing on the Proposed Property Tax Levy for 2021 ATTACHMENTS: 1)A Resolution of the City of Arlington Establishing the 2021 Regular Property Tax Levy2)A Resolution of the City of Arlington Authorizing an Increase in Tax Levy Capacity Pursuant to RCW84.55.120 and an Increase in Limit Factor for Maximum Levy Capacity Pursuant to RCW85.55.0101.DEPARTMENT OF ORIGIN Finance; Kristin Garcia, Director 360-403-3431 EXPENDITURES REQUESTED: N/ABUDGET CATEGORY: General Fund – Regular Property Tax Levy BUDGETED AMOUNT: N/A LEGAL REVIEW: DESCRIPTION: The attached resolutions were discussed at the October 26, 2020 workshop and council directed staff to reduce the general property tax levy increase from 2% to 1%. The attached resolution shows a 1% increase from last year’s levy of $43,375.16. Final resolutions will be brought to council on November 16, 2020 for action. Resolutions must be delivered to Snohomish County no later than November 25, 2020. HISTORY: A retreat was held on October 6, 2020 to review and discuss the city’s 2021 – 2022 preliminary budget and proposed increase in the regular property tax levy. The preliminary budget document was placed on file for the public on October 26, 2020. Resolutions were discussed with council at the October 26, 2020 workshop in preparation for the public hearing. ALTERNATIVES: No increase in the tax levy RECOMMENDED MOTION: Public Hearing. At the November 16, 2020 Council meeting, the motions will be; “I move to approve the Resolution of the City of Arlington Establishing the 2021 Regular Property Tax Levy and I move to approve the Resolution of the City of A rlington Authorizing an Increase in Tax Levy Capacity Pursuant to RCW 84.55.120 and an Increase in Limit Factor for Maximum Levy C apacity Pursuant to RCW 85.55.0101.”
RESOLUTION NO. 2020 - XXX
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF ARLINGTON
ESTABLISHING THE 2021 REGULAR PROPERTY TAX LEVY
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Arlington has met and considered its biennial budget
for the years 2021-2022; and
WHEREAS, the City’s Regular Property Tax actual levy amount from the previous year (2020)
was $4,295,093.52; and
WHEREAS, the population of the City of Arlington is more than 10,000, and
BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Arlington that an increase in the regular
property tax levy is hereby authorized for the levy to be collected in the 2021 tax year.
The dollar amount of the increase over the actual levy amount from the previous year shall be
$43,375.16 which is a percentage increase of 1% from the previous year. This increase is
exclusive of additional revenue resulting from new construction, improvements to property,
newly constructed wind turbines, any increase in the value of state assessed property, any
annexations that have occurred and refunds made.
PASSED and APPROVED by the Mayor and City Council of the City of Arlington, at a regular
meeting held on the 16th day of November, 2020.
Barbara Tolbert, Mayor
ATTEST:
______________________________
Wendy Van Der Meersche, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________________
Steve Peiffle, City Attorney
RESOLUTION NO. 2020 - XXX
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF ARLINGTON
AUTHORIZING AN INCREASE IN TAX LEVY CAPACITY PURSUANT TO RCW 84.55.120 AND AN INCREASE IN
LIMIT FACTOR FOR MAXIMUM LEVY CAPCITY PURSUANT TO RCW 85.55.0101.
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Arlington has met and considered its biennial budget for the
calendar years 2021 - 2022; and
WHEREAS, increases in regular property taxes imposed by the City are limited by Chapter 84.55 RCW
so that the regular property tax levy of the City may increase from year to year by an amount equal to
the limit factor (plus increases permitted due to new construction, refunds and increases in value of
state assessed property); and
WHEREAS, pursuant to RCW 84.55.005 and 84.55.010, the limit factor for the City’s 2021 tax levy is
100.602 for taxing districts with populations of 10,000 or more;
WHEREAS, the highest regular tax that could have b een lawfully levied by the City beginning with the
1985 levy is equal to $4,337,515.58 (“Highest Levy Available”); and
WHEREAS, the City has an ongoing need to provide services to its constituents for public safety,
maintenance and operations; and
WHEREAS, the City has determined it has substantial need and would like to use its levy capacity for
2021, and
WHEREAS, the City is authorized to increase its Highest Levy Available by one percent, which equals
$43,375.16; and
BE IT RESOLVED, the City Council of the City of Arlington taxing district has determined that due to a
general and operations expense, the City Council finds there is a substantial need to set the levy limit at
one hundred one percent (101%).
PASSED and APPROVED by the Mayor and City Council of the City of Arlington, at a regular meeting held
on the 16th day of November, 2020.
_____________________________
Barbara Tolbert, Mayor
ATTEST:
___________________________
Wendy Van Der Meersche, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
___________________________
Steve Peiffle, City Attorney
City of Arlington Council Agenda Bill Item: PH #3 Attachment E COUNCIL MEETING DATE: November 2, 2020 SUBJECT: Public Hearing on the Proposed EMS Tax Levy for 2021 ATTACHMENTS: 1)A Resolution of the City of Arlington Establishing the 2021 EMS Property Tax Levy
2)A Resolution of the City of Arlington Authorizing an Increase in Tax Levy Capacity Pursuant to RCW84.55.120 and an Increase in Limit Factor for Maximum Levy Capacity Pursuant to RCW85.55.0101.DEPARTMENT OF ORIGIN Finance; Kristin Garcia, Director 360-403-3431 EXPENDITURES REQUESTED: N/ABUDGET CATEGORY: EMS Fund – EMS Tax Levy BUDGETED AMOUNT: N/A LEGAL REVIEW: DESCRIPTION: The attached resolutions were reviewed with council at the October 26, 2020 workshop, no changes were requested. The amount of the increase is $10,268.86, a 1% increase from last year’s levy. Final resolutions will be brought to council on November 16, 2020 for action. Resolutions must be delivered to Snohomish County no later than November 25, 2020. HISTORY: A retreat was held on October 6, 2020 to review and discuss the city’s 2021 – 2022 preliminary budget and proposed increase in the EMS tax levy. The preliminary budget document was placed on file with the public on October 26, 2020. Resolutions were discussed with council at the October 26, 2020 workshop in preparation for the public hearing. ALTERNATIVES: No increase in the tax levy RECOMMENDED MOTION: Public Hearing. At the November 16, 2020 Council meeting, the motions will be; “I move to approve the Resolution of the City of Arlington Establishing the 2021 EMS Property Tax Levy and I move to approve the Resolution of the City of Arlington Authorizing an Increase in Tax Levy Capacity Pursuant to RCW 84.55.120 and an Increase in Limit Factor for Maximum Levy C apacity Pursuant to RCW 85.55.0101.”
RESOLUTION NO. 2020-XXX
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF ARLINGTON
ESTABLISHING THE 2021 EMS TAX LEVY
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Arlington has met and considered its biennial budget
for the years 2021 – 2022; and
WHEREAS, the City’s EMS actual tax levy amount from the previous year (2018) was
$1,016,842.73; and
WHEREAS, the population of the City of Arlington is more than 10,000, and now therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Arlington that an increase in the regular
property tax levy is hereby authorized for the levy to be collected in the 2020 tax year.
The dollar amount of the increase over the actual levy amount from the previous year shall be
$10,268.86 which is a percentage increase of 1% from the previous year. This increase is
exclusive of additional revenue resulting from new construction, improvements to property,
newly constructed wind turbines, any increase in the value of state assessed property, any
annexations that have occurred and refunds made.
PASSED and APPROVED by the Mayor and City Council of the City of Arlington, at a regular
meeting held on the 16th day of November, 2020.
____
Barbara Tolbert, Mayor
ATTEST:
__________________________
Wendy Van Der Meersche, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
___________________________
Steve Peiffle, City Attorney
RESOLUTION NO. 2020 - XXX
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF ARLINGTON
AUTHORIZING AN INCREASE IN TAX LEVY CAPACITY PURSUANT TO RCW 84.55.120 AND AN INCREASE IN
LIMIT FACTOR FOR MAXIMUM LEVY CAPCITY PURSUANT TO RCW 85.55.0101.
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Arlington has met and considered its biennial budget for the
calendar years 2021 - 2022; and
WHEREAS, increases in regular property taxes imposed by the City are limited by Chapter 84.55 RCW
so that the EMS tax levy of the City may increase from year to year by an amount equal to the limit factor
(plus increases permitted due to new construction, refunds and increases in value of state assessed
property); and
WHEREAS, pursuant to RCW 84.55.005 and 84.55.010, the limit factor for the City’s 2021 EMS tax levy
is 100.602 for taxing districts with populations of 10,000 or more; and
WHEREAS, the highest regular EMS tax that could have been lawfully levied by the City beginning with
the 1985 levy is equal to $1,026,885.95 (“Highest Levy Available”); and
WHEREAS, the City has an ongoing need to provide emergency medical services to its constituents; and
WHEREAS, the City has determined it has substantial need and would like to use its levy capacity for
2021, and
WHEREAS, the City is authorized to increase its Highest Levy Available by one percent, which equals
$10,268.86; and
BE IT RESOLVED, the City Council of the City of Arlington taxing district has determined that due to a
general and operations expense, the City Council finds there is a substantial need to set the levy limit at
one hundred one percent (101%).
PASSED and APPROVED by the Mayor and City Council of the City of Arlington, at a regular meeting
held on the 16th day of November, 2020.
Barbara Tolbert, Mayor
ATTEST:
___________________________
Wendy Van Der Meersche, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
___________________________
Steve Peiffle, City Attorney
City of Arlington Council Agenda Bill Item: PH #4 Attachment F COUNCIL MEETING DATE: November 2, 2020 SUBJECT: Permanent adoption of AMC Chapter 20.64 – Floodplain Development Regulations and Declaring an Emergency ATTACHMENTS: Ordinance DEPARTMENT OF ORIGIN Community and Economic Development; Marc Hayes, Director 360-403-3457 EXPENDITURES REQUESTED: 0 BUDGET CATEGORY: 0 BUDGETED AMOUNT: 0 LEGAL REVIEW: DESCRIPTION: The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) periodically conducts Flood Hazard Determinations that affect the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) and the Flood Insurance Study report for the City of Arlington. Because of these updates, certain revisions to the City’s regulations are
At the May 4, 2020 Council meeting, the City Council approved an emergency ordinance, amending sections of Arlington Municipal Code, Chapter 20.64-Floodplain Development Regulations. The purpose of the current ordinance is to make these changes permanent. A Public Hearing will be held on November 2, 2020 for these amendments to be considered, and final adoption to be made. The Planning Commission discussed these items at their October 20, 2020 meeting, and recommended approval.ALTERNATIVES: None. RECOMMENDED MOTION: Public Hearing. Due to the emergency, staff requests that you adopt the following motion after the public hearing; “I move to approve the ordinance amending sections of Arlington Municipal Code, Chapter 20.64-Floodplain Development Regulations and Declaring an Emergency, and authorize the Mayor to sign the ordinance.”
ORDINANCE NO. 2020-XXX 1
ORDINANCE NO. 2020--XXX
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ARLINGTON, WASHINGTON
AMENDING CERTAIN SECTIONS OF THE ARLINGTON MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 20.64
RELATING TO FLOODPLAIN REGULATIONS AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY
WHEREAS, the City of Arlington Community & Economic Development staff has reviewed
the provisions of Arlington Municipal Code Chapter 20.64 in connection with floodplain
regulations; and
WHEREAS, the City has worked with the Department of Ecology and the Federal
Emergency Management Authority (FEMA) to amend the City’s ordinances for clarity and
compliance; and
WHEREAS, FEMA has adopted modifications to FEMA’s maps and regulations which
became effective on June 19, 2020; and
WHEREAS, the City finds that FEMA published notice in the newspaper and received no
comments; and
WHEREAS, the City is required to adopt ordinances implementing the FEMA maps and
regulations; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission considered this ordinance at its meeting on October
20, 2020, and recommended approval of the same; and
WHEREAS, the City Council considered this ordinance at a workshop on October 26, 2020
and held an open record public hearing on November 2, 2020 and found that amendment of the
ordinance was in the best interests of the citizens and the City; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the ordinance is consistent with the comprehensive
plan of the City, and that the ordinance should be adopted; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that an emergency exists, in that adoption of this
ordinance must be effective before Monday, November 9, 2020 in order for Arlington to be
compliant with FEMA regulations for flood insurance, and if the ordinance is not adopted as an
emergency then publication of the ordinance may not occur prior to that time;
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Arlington do hereby ordain as follows:
Section 1. Arlington Municipal Code section 20.64.010 shall be and hereby is amended
to read as follows:
ORDINANCE NO. 2020-XXX 2
20.64.010 - Statutory authorization. The legislature of the state of Washington has
delegated the responsibility to local governmental units to adopt floodplain management
regulations designed to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare of its
citizenry. Therefore, the City Council of the City of Arlington does ordain as follows:
Section 2. Arlington Municipal Code section 20.64.020(a) shall be and hereby is amended
to read as follows:
20.64.020 - Findings of fact. (a) The special flood hazard areas of the city encompass a
very small area (two-tenths of one percent) of the developable lands within the corporate
limits of the city. These areas are subject to periodic inundation of floodwaters due to
storm surges and runoff, which may result in loss of life, property damage, public health
and safety hazards, disruption of commerce and governmental services, and other
consequences which adversely affect the public health, safety and general welfare.
Section 3. Arlington Municipal Code section 20.64.050 shall be and hereby is amended
by adding the following additional definitions, to read as follows:
“Accessory Structure” means" a minor building that is located on the same lot as a
principal building and that is used incidentally to a principal building or that houses an
accessory use.
“Alteration of Watercourse” means any action that will change the location of the channel
occupied by water within the banks of any portion of a riverine waterbody.
“Base Flood Elevation” (BFE) means the elevation to which floodwater is anticipated to
rise during the base flood.
“Building”: See “Structure”.
“Floodplain or flood prone area” means any land area susceptible to being inundated by
water from any source. See "Flood or flooding."
“Floodplain management” means the operation of an overall program of corrective and
preventive measures for reducing flood damage, including but not limited to emergency
preparedness plans, flood control works, and floodplain management regulations.
“Floodplain management regulations” means zoning ordinances, subdivision regulations,
building codes, health regulations, special purpose ordinances (such as floodplain
ordinance, grading ordinance and erosion control ordinance) and other application of
police power. The term describes such state or local regulations, in any combination
ORDINANCE NO. 2020-XXX 3
thereof, which provide standards for the purpose of flood damage prevention and
reduction.
“Flood proofing” means any combination of structural and nonstructural additions,
changes, or adjustments to structures which reduce or eliminate risk of flood damage to
real estate or improved real property, water and sanitary facilities, structures, and their
contents. Dry flood proofed structures are those that have the structural integrity and
design to be impervious to floodwater below the Base Flood Elevation.
“Functionally dependent use” means a use which cannot perform its intended purpose
unless it is located or carried out in close proximity to water. The term includes only
docking facilities, port facilities that are necessary for the loading and unloading of cargo
or passengers, and ship building and ship repair facilities, and does not include long term
storage or related manufacturing facilities.
“Highest adjacent grade” means the highest natural elevation of the ground surface prior
to construction next to the proposed walls of a structure.
“Historic structure” means any structure that is:
1) Listed individually in the National Register of Historic Places (a listing
maintained by the Department of Interior) or preliminarily determined by the
Secretary of the Interior as meeting the requirements for individual listing on the
National Register;
2) Certified or preliminarily determined by the Secretary of the Interior as
contributing to the historical significance of a registered historic district or a
district preliminarily determined by the Secretary to qualify as a registered historic
district;
3) Individually listed on a state inventory of historic places in states with
historic preservation programs which have been approved by the Secretary of
Interior; or
4) Individually listed on a local inventory of historic places in communities
with historic preservation programs that have been certified either:
a) By an approved state program as determined by the Secretary of the
Interior, or
b) Directly by the Secretary of the Interior in states without approved
programs.
Impervious Surface: a hard surface area which causes water to run off the surface in
greater quantities or at an increased rate of flow from the flow present under natural
conditions prior to development. Common impervious surfaces include, but are not
limited to, roof tops, walkways, patios, driveways, parking lots or storage areas, concrete
ORDINANCE NO. 2020-XXX 4
or asphalt paving, gravel roads, packed earthen materials, and oiled, macadam or other
surfaces which similarly impede the natural infiltration of stormwater.
"Structure" means a walled and roofed building including a gas or liquid storage tank that is
principally above ground as well as a manufactured home.
“Violation” means the failure of a structure or other development to be fully compliant with the
community’s floodplain management regulations. A structure or other development
without the elevation certificate, other certifications, or other evidence of compliance
required in this ordinance is presumed to be in violation until such time as that
documentation is provided.
Section 4. Arlington Municipal Code section 20.64.050 shall be and hereby is amended
by amending the following definitions, to read as follows:
"Base flood" means the flood having a one percent chance of being equaled or exceeded
in any given year (also referred to as the "one hundred-year flood").
"Development" means any manmade change to improved or unimproved real estate,
including but not limited to buildings or other structures, mining, dredging, filling, grading,
paving, excavation or drilling operations, or storage of equipment or materials,
subdivision of land, removal of more than 5% of the native vegetation on the property, or
alteration of natural site characteristics.
"Flood" or "flooding" means a general and temporary condition of partial or complete
inundation of normally dry land areas from:
(1) The overflow of inland or tidal waters;
(2) The unusual and rapid accumulation of runoff of surface waters from
any source;
(3) Mudslides (i.e., mudflows) which are proximately caused by flooding as
defined in (2) in this definition and are akin to a river of liquid and flowing
mud on the surfaces of normally dry land areas, as when earth is carried
by a current of water and deposited along the path of the current;
The collapse of subsidence of land along the shore of a lake or other body
of water as a result of erosion or undermining caused by waves or currents
of water exceeding anticipated cyclical levels or suddenly caused by an
unusually high water level in a natural body of water, accompanied by a
severe storm, or by an unanticipated force of nature, such as flash flood or
an abnormal tidal surge, or by some similarly unusually and unforeseeable
event which results in flooding as defined in (1) of this definition.
"Flood insurance rate map (FIRM)" means the official map on which the Federal
ORDINANCE NO. 2020-XXX 5
Insurance Administrator has delineated both the areas of special flood hazards
and the risk premium zones applicable to the community.
"Flood insurance study" means an examination, evaluation and determination of
flood hazards and, if appropriate, corresponding water surface elevations, or an
examination, evaluation and determination of mudslide (i.e., mudflow) and/or
flood-related erosion hazards. Also known as the Flood Elevation Study
"Floodplain administrator" means the director of community development, who
is hereby deemed to be the city's floodplain administrator to administer and
enforce the floodplain management regulations.
"Floodway" means the channel of a river or other watercourse and the adjacent
land areas that must be reserved in order to discharge the base flood without
cumulatively increasing the water surface elevation more than a designated
height.
"New construction" means, for the purposes of determining insurance rates,
structures for which the “start of construction” commenced on or after the
effective date of an initial Flood Insurance Rate Map or after December 31, 1974,
whichever is later, and includes any subsequent improvements to such structures.
For floodplain management purposes, “new construction” means structures for
which the "start of construction" commenced on or after the effective date of a
floodplain management regulation adopted by a community and includes any
subsequent improvements to such structures.
"Protected area" means the greater of the floodway, the channel migration zone
plus 50 feet, and the riparian habitat zone within the FEMA mapped special flood
hazard area.
"Structure" means a walled and roofed building including a gas or liquid storage
tank that is principally above ground, as well as a manufactured home.
"Substantial improvement" means any reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, or
other improvement of a structure, the cost of which equals or exceeds fifty
percent of the market value of the structure before the “start of construction” of
the improvement. This term includes structures which have incurred “substantial
damage” regardless of the actual repair work performed
The term does not, however, include either:
(1) Any project for improvement of a structure to correct identified existing
violations of state or local health, sanitary, or safety code specifications which
ORDINANCE NO. 2020-XXX 6
have been identified by the local code enforcement official and which are the
minimum necessary to assure safe living conditions, or
(2) Any alteration of a "historic structure," provided that the alteration would not
preclude the structure's continued designation as a "historic structure."
Section 5. Arlington Municipal Code section 20.64.050 shall be and hereby is amended
by removing the following definitions:
Section 6. Arlington Municipal Code section 20.64.060 shall be and hereby is amended to
read as follows:
20.64.060 - Basis for establishing the areas of special flood hazard.
(a) The areas of special flood hazard identified by the Federal Insurance Administrator in
a scientific and engineering report entitled "The Flood Insurance Study for Snohomish
County and Incorporated Areas" (in which the city is incorporated) dated June 19, 2020,
or as amended, with an accompanying flood insurance rate map (FIRM), as amended, are
hereby adopted by reference and declared to be a part of this section. The flood insurance
study and the FIRM are on file at Arlington City Hall, 238 North Olympic, Arlington,
Washington. The best available information for flood hazard area identification as
outlined in subsection (b) shall be the basis for regulation until a new FIRM is issued which
incorporates the data utilized under subsection (b).
(b) When base flood elevation data has not been provided (A zones) in accordance with
subsection (a), the floodplain administrator shall use any base flood elevation and
floodway data available from a federal, state or other source, in order to comply with
Section 20.64.160 (General Standards), Section 20.64.170 (Specific standards for zones A
and AE) and Section 20.64.180 (Specific standards for designated regulatory floodways).
(c) If such data are not already available, the administrator may rely on a licensed surveyor
to provide such information as necessary to reasonably ascertain said zones.
Section 7. Arlington Municipal Code section 20.64.100 shall be and hereby is amended to
read as follows:
20.64.100 - Supplementary information required with a permit application.
In addition to the standard information required on a permit application, the following
information is also required for any permits proposing development within a floodway or
floodplain, watercourse alteration or relocation:
(1) Proposed Elevation in relation to mean sea level, of the lowest floor (including
basement) of all structures;
(2) Proposed Elevation in relation to mean sea level to which any structure has
been floodproofed;
(3)Proposed Elevation certification by a registered professional engineer or
architect.
(4) Notify adjacent communities and the department of ecology prior to any
ORDINANCE NO. 2020-XXX 7
alteration or relocation of a watercourse, and submit evidence of such notification
to the Federal Insurance Administrator through appropriate notification means.
(5) Assure that the flood-carrying capacity of the altered or relocated portion of
said watercourse is maintained.
Section 8. A new Arlington Municipal Code section 20.64.125 shall be and hereby is
amended to read as follows:
20.64.125 – Flood Hazard Permit Required
A. General Requirements
1. No land within the areas of special flood hazard shall hereafter be subdivided
or short subdivided, improved, filled, graded or cleared; nor shall any structure,
including manufactured homes, be constructed, reconstructed, substantially
improved, relocated, or erected on such lands unless the person(s) responsible for
such improvements shall first obtain a Flood Hazard Permit for such action in
accord with the provisions of Arlington Municipal Code Chapters 20.64.
2. The areas of flood hazard include those identified on the latest version of the
Federal Insurance Administrator’s , Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM), or
subsequent floodplain information prepared by the City to show updated flood
hazard information, or on site-specific studies if required for development
application purposes. Publicly available flood hazard information is available from
the Permit Center and Public Works Engineering.
3. A Habitat Assessment Report is required as part of project permitting to help
project proponents and government agencies identify and address potential
impacts of a proposed development on protected areas that have potential to
adversely affect habitat functions for species listed under the Endangered Species
Act (ESA). For the purposes of this assessment, "ESA listed species" include any
species listed as endangered, threatened, or being considered for listing, and have
been documented to be present in streams near and adjacent to the project site.
Refer to FEMA Floodplain Habitat Assessment and Mitigation Regional Guidance
for the Puget Sound Basin.
B. Required Analysis Methods
1. When analysis is required. Projects that displace floodwaters require an
engineer’s certification that compensatory storage and no reduction in floodway
conveyance will result. Examples of projects exempt from the compensatory
storage and conveyance certification analysis requirement include, but are not
limited to:
(i) Projects in the floodplain that do not involve any activity below the base
flood elevation, such as a second story addition (an elevation certificate
may still be required, however).
(ii) Activities that do not involve recontouring of ground or new fill, such as
an on-grade driveway. New or improved structures in the flood fringe (i.e.,
ORDINANCE NO. 2020-XXX 8
away from flowing flood water), where no fill is proposed and adequate
foundation openings are provided.
(iii) New or improved structures constructed on flow-through foundations
or pilings where no fill is proposed. The City will verify that the exemption
is valid before a permit is issued.
2. Compensatory Storage Required. Development proposals shall not reduce
the effective base Page 2 of 3 REV 10/2017 flood storage volume of the floodplain.
Grading or other activity which would reduce the effective storage volume must
be mitigated by creating compensatory storage either on-site, or approved
adjacent off-site location. The compensatory storage must be hydraulically
connected to the source of floodwaters and excavated at an elevation at or below
the elevation of the filled storage that is being compensated.
3. No Reduction in Floodplain Conveyance. Development proposals shall not
reduce the hydraulic capability of the floodplain on-site to convey floodwaters
through the property during the base flood event. No rise in base flood elevations
is allowed on adjacent properties. Providing this compensatory conveyance
capacity can be done in conjunction with the compensatory storage, either on-site
or off-site.
4. Floodplain Hydraulic Study. Compliance with the compensatory storage,
compensatory conveyance requirements, and other requirements of the
Arlington Municipal Code Chapter 20.64 shall be documented in a floodplain
hydraulic study prepared by a licensed civil engineer registered in the state of
Washington. The following methods shall be used to assess impacts and required
mitigation:
a. Base flood information, including flood magnitudes, shall be consistent
with the latest Flood Insurance Study, or with subsequent reports and
data furnished to the applicant by the City. The applicant should verify
these assumptions, and whether hydraulic models that represent the
current base flood mapping are available, with the City.
b. The floodplain hydraulic study shall include site topographic mapping,
plans and specifications for proposed grading and structures, surveyed
cross-section data and graphs, flood profiles, model input and output data,
and any other information necessary to document modeling assumptions,
conditions and conclusions. If requested, floodplain study submittals shall
be accompanied by electronic copies of floodplain models and topographic
maps.
c. Acceptable modeling methodologies for calculating floodplain
conveyance impacts and mitigation are described in Table 1. Alternative
methods may be approved by the City.
ORDINANCE NO. 2020-XXX 9
Table 1. Acceptable Modeling Methodologies
C. Document and Plans Submittal
The following documents and plans shall be provided by the applicant at the time
the permit application is filed with the City:
1. A complete legal description of the property; parcel number, lot
number(s) and name of platted subdivision; or the tax lot number assigned
by the County Assessor’s Office, Page 3 of 3 REV 10/2017 together with the
Section, Township and Range Number.
2. A topographic survey of the property prepared by a licensed surveyor,
with sufficient scale (1”=20’) and contour interval (2’) to adequately assess
variations in the ground surface, and based on the City of Arlington datum
(NAVD88).
3. Compensatory Storage and Floodplain Conveyance Design. The grading
plan shall identify description, location and volume of compensatory
storage provided, and features of floodplain conveyance facilities.
Calculations and analysis methods shall be documented, as required in
Section B (above), in the floodplain hydraulic study prepared by a licensed
civil engineer registered in the state of Washington
4. A design of site stormwater drainage in compliance with Chapter 13.28
AMC (if required).
5. Habitat Assessment.
6. Two sets of plans, profiles, sections or sketches, drawn clearly and
legibly, showing pertinent distances, dimensions, contours, elevations and
details.
obstruction of floodwaters or fill, such
as vegetation removal or planting,
building improvements that do not
increase footprint, maintenance to
restore an original permitted condition,
feet of obstruction width or less than 2
feet of fill, not to exceed 100 square
feet of total obstruction under base
calculation assuming no change in water
surface elevation and using appropriate
Manning’s “n” value.
that do not meet the definitions of 1) or HEC 2 or HEC –RAS.
ORDINANCE NO. 2020-XXX 10
7. Permit application.
D. Elevation Certificate
1. A preliminary elevation certificate shall be completed and submitted to
the City at the time of first floor construction.
2. A final elevation certificate shall be submitted at completion of
construction.
3. Elevation certificates shall be completed by or under the supervision of
a Washington State Registered Professional Surveyor. Per state law, a
licensed engineer cannot sign an elevation certificate.
4. The City shall approve preliminary and final elevation certificates. No
acceptance or occupancy shall be granted prior to submittal of the as-built
elevation certification.
E. Other Permits
The City’s approval of this application and permit does not grant approval
for drainage work, grading or crossings that may affect streams or
wetlands. Contact the City for more information on other permits that may
be required for the project.
F. Review and Approval
An application, when completed on the forms provided by the City,
together with required materials described above, will be reviewed by the
Designated Official, and, when appropriate and necessary, by other public
agency officials, engineers, and persons. Their recommendations will be
forwarded to the designated official who will examine, approve or reject
drawings, plans, sketches or floodplain analyses for any proposed
improvement. The approved application, and approved plans will
represent the permit.
Section 9. Arlington Municipal Code section 20.64.140 shall be and hereby is amended to
read as follows:
20.64.140 - Permissible uses within floodway.
Notwithstanding Chapter 20.40 (Permissible Uses), no permit to make use of land
within a floodway may be issued unless, the applicant can demonstrate a No Rise
Certification per methods as outlined in 20.64.180 for the proposed use when listed as
permissible in the Table of Permissible Uses, Chapter 20.93 (Critical Areas Ordinance),
and in the following list:
1. General habitat restoration, farming, pasture, outdoor plant nurseries,
horticulture, forestry, wildlife sanctuary, game farm, and other similar
agricultural, wildlife, and related uses.
2. Ground-level loading areas, parking areas, boat launch, rotary aircraft ports,
ORDINANCE NO. 2020-XXX 11
and other similar ground-level area uses.
3. Lawns, gardens, play areas, and other similar uses.
4. Golf courses, tennis courts, driving ranges, archery ranges, picnic grounds,
parks, hiking or horseback-riding trails, open space, and other similar private and
public recreational uses.
Section 10. Arlington Municipal Code section 20.64.150 shall be and hereby is amended
to read as follows:
20.64.150 – Construction within floodplains restricted.
A. General development standards to be followed in floodplains (aka special flood
hazard area) include:
1. If a lot has a buildable site out of the floodplain, all new structures shall be located
there, when feasible. If the lot is fully in the floodplain, structures must be located to
have the least impact on salmon.
a. All structures must be set back at least fifteen feet from the protected area
and sited as close to the SFHA boundary as possible.
2. Stormwater and drainage features shall incorporate low impact development
techniques that mimic pre-development hydrologic conditions, when technically
feasible.
3. Creation of new impervious surfaces shall not exceed ten percent of the surface area
of the portion of the lot in the floodplain unless mitigation is provided.
4. Uses that are not permitted in the protected area unless shown not to adversely
affect water quality, habitat, and large woody debris include; septic tanks and drain
fields, dumping of any materials, hazardous or sanitary waste landfills: receiving area for
toxic or hazardous waste or other contaminants.
5.
a. The proposed action must be designed and located so that new structural
flood protection is not needed.
b. All bank stabilization measures requiring armoring of the streambank or
shoreline shall utilize bioengineering per the integrated streambank protection
guidelines 2003 (for riverine shorelines) or the state shorelines guidelines on
bank stabilization 2003 (for estuarine and marine shorelines).
6. In an SFHA outside the protected area, zoning is required to maintain a low density of
flood plain development. Concepts of cluster development, density transfer, credits and
bonuses, planned unit development, and transfer of development rights shall be
employed wherever possible.
B. Any development occurring in the floodplain will require the issuance of a "flood
hazard permit". A development permit shall be obtained before construction or
development begins within any area of special flood hazard area. The permit shall be for
all structures including manufactured homes, and for all development including fill and
ORDINANCE NO. 2020-XXX 12
other activities as set forth in this chapter.
1. No land use or building permit may be issued for any development within a floodplain
until the permit-issuing authority has reviewed the plans for any such development to
assure that:
a. The proposed development is consistent with the need to minimize flood
damage, and
b. All public utilities and facilities such as sewer, gas, electrical, and water
systems are located and constructed to minimize or eliminate flood damage, and
c. Adequate drainage is provided to minimize or reduce exposure to flood
hazards, and
d. All necessary permits have been received from those agencies from which
approval is required by federal or state law, and
e. The application for a permit to develop in the affected area must include the
elevations of the ten-, fifty-, and one hundred-year floods, where such data are
available, and
f. The applicant must record a notice on the title that the property contains land
within the RHZ and/or one hundred-year floodplain before a permit may be
issued, and
g. Any improvements or repairs to existing structures that result in a greater
than ten percent increase of the structure footprint must mitigate for any
adverse effects, and
h. Removal of native vegetation must leave sixty-five percent of the surface area
of the portion of the property in the floodplain in an undeveloped state, and
i. Development in the protected area (floodway, RHZ, and CMZ plus fifty feet) is
prohibited unless it is demonstrated that any proposed development in the area
does not adversely affect water quality, water quantity, flood volumes, flood
velocities, spawning substrate, and/or floodplain refugia for listed salmonids. No
mitigation is allowed within the protected area. However, project design
elements to avoid any adverse effects may be allowed.
2. Any development outside the protected area must mitigate for adverse effects, both
direct and indirect on functions such that equivalent or better salmon habitat protection
is provided for:
a. Stormwater. Reduce flood volumes and stormwater runoff from new
development by ensuring that increased flood volumes of stormwater reach the
river at the same frequency, timing and duration as historic runoff. Low impact
development is required to be incorporated as described in Section
20.64.140(b)(2).
b. Riparian vegetation: maintain or replace riparian function by providing
equivalent area, diversity, and function of riparian vegetation as currently exists
on the site. Riparian retention requirements are outlined in subsection (1)(H).
c. Hyporheic Zones. No activity is allowed that interferes with the natural
exchange of flow between surface water, groundwater, and hyporheic zone,
ORDINANCE NO. 2020-XXX 13
however, natural hyporheic exchange may be enhanced or restored.
d. Wetlands. Wetland function must be maintained or replaced by providing
equivalent function.
e. Large Woody Debris. Any large woody debris (LWD) removed from the
floodplain must be replaced in kind, replicating or improving the quantity, size,
and species of the existing LWD.
3. No building may be constructed and no substantial improvement of an existing
building may take place within any floodway. This includes a prohibition on installing
new mobile homes in an existing mobile home park located in a floodway, even if the
park is nonconforming.
4. Where elevation data is not available either through the flood insurance study, FIRM,
or from another authoritative source the applicant shall obtain, review, and reasonably
utilize any base flood elevation and floodway data available from a federal, state or
other source (Subsection 20.64.060(b) Basis for establishing the areas of special flood
hazard), applications for building permits shall be reviewed to assure that proposed
construction will be reasonably safe from flooding.
5. No new residential building may be constructed and no substantial improvement of a
residential building may take place within any floodplain unless the lowest floor
(including basement) of the building or improvement is elevated one foot or more
above the base flood level.
a. Accessory structures, shall be allowed within floodplains provided they are
firmly anchored to prevent flotation, elevated one foot or more above the Base
Flood Elevation, or, if used solely for parking or storage, meet the requirements
under 20/64/170I1)(B) (i.e., vented).
b. Anchoring of any accessory structures may be done by bolting the building to
a concrete slab or by over-the-top ties. When bolting to a concrete slab, one-half
inch bolts six feet on center with a minimum of two per side shall be required. If
over-the-top ties are used, a minimum of two ties with a force adequate to
secure the building is required.
6. No new nonresidential building may be constructed and no substantial improvements
of a nonresidential building may take place within any floodplain unless the lowest floor
(including basement) of the building or improvement is elevated or floodproofed one
foot or more above base flood elevation (BFE).
7. For purposes of this section, "substantial improvement" means any building
constructed on or after the effective date of a floodplain management regulation,
including any, reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, or other improvement of a
building, the cost of which equals or exceeds fifty percent of the market value of the
structure before the “start of construction” of the improvement. This term includes
structures which have incurred “substantial damage”, regardless of the actual repair
work performed.
"Substantial improvement" occurs when the first alteration on any wall, ceiling, floor, or
other structural part of the building commences, whether or not that alteration affects
ORDINANCE NO. 2020-XXX 14
the external dimensions of the building. The term does not, however, include either:
a. Any project for improvement of a structure to correct existing violations of
state or local health, sanitary, or safety code specifications which have been
identified by the local code enforcement official and which are the minimum
necessary to assure safe living conditions, or
b. Any alteration of a “historic structure”, provided that the alteration will not
preclude the structure’s continued designation as a “historic structure”.
8. No land use or building permit may be issued for any development within a floodplain
until the permit-issuing authority has reviewed the plans to assure that any new
construction or substantial improvements shall be:
a. Required that all new construction and substantial improvements shall be
anchored to prevent flotation, collapse, or lateral movement of the structure
resulting from hydrodynamic and hydrostatic loads, including the effects of
buoyancy.
9. Notwithstanding any other provision of this title, no mobile home may be located or
relocated within that portion of the floodplain outside of the floodway, unless the
following criteria are met:
a. All manufactured homes must likewise be anchored to prevent flotation,
collapse, or lateral movement resulting from hydrodynamic, hydrostatic loads,
including the effects of buoyancy, and shall be installed using methods and
practices that minimize flood damage. Anchoring methods may include, but are
not limited to, use of over-the-top or frame ties to ground anchors (reference
FEMA's "Manufactured Home Installation in Flood Hazard Areas" guidebook for
additional techniques).
b. Lots or pads are elevated on compacted fill or by any other method approved
by the administrator so that the lowest habitable floor of the mobile home is at
or above the base flood level.
c. Adequate surface drainage and easy access for mobile home hauler is
provided.
d. Load-bearing foundation supports such as piers or pilings must be engineered.
10. Whenever any portion of a floodplain is filled in with fill dirt, slopes shall be
adequately stabilized to withstand the erosive force of the base flood. All activity within
the floodplain will require the issuance of a Flood Hazard Permit by the City.
Section 11. Arlington Municipal Code section 20.64.160 shall be and hereby is amended
to read as follows:
20.64.160 - General standards.
In all areas of special flood hazards, the following standards are required:
(1) Anchoring.
(A) All new construction and substantial improvements shall be anchored
to prevent flotation, collapse, or lateral movement of the structure
ORDINANCE NO. 2020-XXX 15
resulting from hydrodynamic and hydrostatic loads, including the effects
of buoyancy.
(B) All manufactured homes must likewise be anchored to prevent
flotation, collapse, or lateral movement, and shall be installed using
methods and practices that minimize flood damage. Anchoring methods
may include, but are not limited to, use of over-the-top or frame ties to
ground anchors (reference FEMA's "Manufactured Home Installation in
Flood Hazard Areas" guidebook for additional techniques).
(2) A, AE Zone Drainage. Adequate drainage paths are required around structures
on slopes to guide floodwaters around and away from proposed structures.
(3) Construction Materials and Methods.
(A) All new construction and substantial improvements shall be
constructed with materials and utility equipment resistant to flood
damage.
(B) All new construction and substantial improvements shall be
constructed using methods and practices that minimize flood damage.
(C) Electrical, heating, ventilation, plumbing, and air-conditioning
equipment and other service facilities shall be designed and/or otherwise
elevated or located so as to prevent water from entering or accumulating
within the components during conditions of flooding.
Section 12. Arlington Municipal Code section 20.64.170 shall be and hereby is amended
to read as follows:
20.64.170 - Specific standards for zones AE and A.
In all areas of special flood hazards where base flood elevation data has been
provided as set forth in Section 20.64.060 (Basis for establishing the areas of
special flood hazard and Use of Other Base Flood Data), the following provisions
are required:
(1) Residential Construction.
(A) New construction and substantial improvement of any
residential structure shall have the lowest floor, including
basement, elevated one foot or more above the base flood
elevation.
(B) Fully enclosed areas below the lowest floor that are subject to
flooding are prohibited, or, if used solely for parking, access or
storage, shall be designed to automatically equalize hydrostatic
flood forces on exterior walls by allowing for the entry and exit of
floodwaters. Designs for meeting this requirement must either be
certified by a registered professional engineer or architect or must
meet or exceed the following minimum criteria:
ORDINANCE NO. 2020-XXX 16
(i) A minimum of two openings having a total net area of
not less than one square inch for every square foot of
enclosed area subject to flooding shall be provided.
(ii) The bottom of all openings shall be no higher than one
foot above grade.
(iii) Openings may be equipped with screens, louvers, or
other coverings or devices provided that they permit the
automatic entry and exit of floodwaters.
(2) Nonresidential Construction. New construction and substantial
improvement of any commercial, industrial or other nonresidential
structure shall either have the lowest floor, including basement, elevated
one foot or more above the base flood elevation; or, together with
attendant utility and sanitary facilities, shall:
(A) Be floodproofed so that below one foot or more above the base
flood level the structure is watertight with walls substantially
impermeable to the passage of water;
(B) Have structural components capable of resisting hydrostatic
and hydrodynamic loads and effects of buoyancy;
(C) Be certified by a registered professional engineer or architect
that the design and methods of construction are in accordance with
accepted standards of practice for meeting provisions of this
subsection based on their development and/or review of the
structural design, specifications and plans. Such certifications shall
be provided to the floodplain administrator or building official.
(D) Applicants floodproofing nonresidential buildings shall be
notified that flood insurance premiums will be based on rates that
are one foot below the floodproofed level (e.g. a building
floodproofed to the base flood level will be rated as one foot
below).
(3) Manufactured Homes.
(A) All manufactured homes to be placed or substantially improved
on sites:
(i) Outside of a manufactured home park or subdivision,
(ii) In a new manufactured home park or subdivision,
(iii) In an expansion to an existing manufactured home park
or subdivision, or
(iv) In an existing manufactured home park or subdivision
on which a manufactured home has incurred "substantial
damage" as the result of a flood;
(v) Shall be elevated on a permanent foundation such that
the lowest floor of the manufactured home is elevated one
foot or more above the base flood elevation and be securely
ORDINANCE NO. 2020-XXX 17
anchored to an adequately designed foundation system to
resist flotation, collapse and lateral movement.
(B) Manufactured homes to be placed or substantially improved on
sites in an existing manufactured home park or subdivision that are
not subject to the above manufactured home provisions be
elevated so that either:
(i) The lowest floor of the manufactured home is elevated
one foot or more above the base flood elevation, or
(ii) The manufactured home chassis is supported by
reinforced piers or other foundation elements of at least
equivalent strength that are no less than thirty-six inches in
height above grade and be securely anchored to an
adequately designed foundation system to resist flotation,
collapse, and lateral movement.
(4) Recreational Vehicles. Recreational vehicles placed on sites are
required to either:
(A) Be on the site for fewer than one hundred eighty consecutive
days,
(B) Be fully licensed and ready for highway use, on its wheels or
jacking system, is attached to the site only by quick disconnect type
utilities and security devices, and has no permanently attached
additions; or
(C) Meet the requirements of subsection (c)(3), and the elevation
and anchoring requirements for manufactured homes.
Section 13. Arlington Municipal Code section 20.64.190 shall be and hereby is deleted in
its entirety.
Section 14. Arlington Municipal Code section 20.64.210 shall be and hereby is amended
to read as follows:
20.64.200 - AE zones with base flood elevations but no floodways.
In areas with base flood elevations (but where a regulatory floodway has not been
designated), no new construction, substantial improvements, or other development
(including fill) shall be permitted within zone AE on the community's FIRM, unless it is
demonstrated that the cumulative effect of the proposed development, when combined
with all other existing and anticipated development, will not increase the water surface
elevation of the base flood more than one foot at any point within the community.
Section 15. Arlington Municipal Code section 20.64.215 shall be and hereby is amended
to read as follows:
ORDINANCE NO. 2020-XXX 18
20.64.210 - Special provisions for all development proposals, including subdivisions and
manufactured home parks, shall:
(a) Be consistent with the need to minimize flood damage.
(b) Have public utilities and facilities, such as sewer, gas, electrical, and water systems
located and constructed to minimize or eliminate flood damage.
(c) Have adequate drainage provided to reduce exposure to flood damage.
(d) Where base flood elevation data has not been provided or is not available from
another authoritative source, it shall be generated for all development proposals,
including subdivisions and manufactured home parks, greater than fifty lots or five acres
(whichever is the lesser).
(e) All subdivisions are subject to use and construction restrictions contained in Section
20.64.130 (Artificial obstructions within floodways prohibited), Section 20.64.140
(Permissible uses within floodways), Section 20.64.150 (Construction within floodplains
restricted), Section 20.64.180 (Specific standards for designated regulatory floodways)
and Section 20.64.220 (Utility systems in floodways and floodplains) if any portion of the
land to be subdivided lies within a floodway or floodplain.
(f) Final plat approval for any subdivision containing land that lies within a floodway or
may not be given unless the plat shows the boundary of the floodway or floodplain and
contains in clearly discernible print the following statement:
"Use of land within a floodway or floodplain is substantially restricted by Title 20,
Chapter 20.64 of the Arlington Municipal Code."
(g) Subject to the following sentence, a conditional use permit or final plat approval for
any subdivision may not be given if:
(1) The land to be subdivided lies within a zone where residential uses are
permissible and it reasonably appears that the subdivision is designed to create
residential building lots, and
(2) Any portion of one or more of the proposed lots lies within a floodway or
floodplain, and
(3) It reasonably appears that one or more lots described in Subsections (g)(1) and
(2) could not practicably be used as a residential building site because of the
restrictions set forth in Section 20.64.150 (Construction within floodplains
restricted), Section 20.64.160 (General standards), and Section 20.64.170 (Specific
standards for zones AE and A).
Section 16. Arlington Municipal Code section 20.64.240 shall be and hereby is amended
to read as follows:
20.64.240 - Additional duties of administrator related to flood insurance and flood
control.
The administrator shall:
(1) For the purpose of the determination of applicable flood insurance risk
premium rates within zone A on the City's flood insurance rate map provided by
ORDINANCE NO. 2020-XXX 19
the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency:
(A) Obtain and maintain a record of the elevation (in relation to mean sea
level) of the lowest floor (including basement) of all new or substantially
improved structures and whether or not such structures contain a
basement; and
(B) Obtain and maintain, a record of the elevation (in relation to mean sea
level) to which the structure was floodproofed; and
(C) Maintain the floodproofing certifications found in others sections of
this chapter; and
(D) The city will track projects which have been issued floodplain
development permits, including effects to flood storage and fish habitat
and mitigation provided.
(E) Maintain a record of all such information for public inspection.
(2) Notify, in riverine situations, adjacent communities, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers,
the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife, and any effected diking or
drainage districts prior to any alteration or relocation of a watercourse, and submit copies
of such notification to the Federal Insurance Administrator.
(3) Ensure that the flood-carrying capacity within the altered or relocated portion of any
watercourse is maintained and within the same sub-basin so carrying capacity is not
diminished.
(4) Maintain the records of all appeal actions and report any variances, including the
justification for their issuance, to the Federal Insurance Administrator upon request.
(5) Notification to Other Entities
(A) Base Flood Elevations may increase or decrease resulting from physical
changes affecting flooding conditions. As soon as practicable, but not later than
six months after the date such information becomes available, the Floodplain
Administrator shall notify the Federal Insurance Administrator of the changes by
submitting technical or scientific data in accordance with Volume 44 Code of
Federal Regulations Section 65.3. Such a submission is necessary so that upon
confirmation of those physical changes affecting flooding conditions, risk
premium rates and floodplain management requirements will be based upon
current data.
(B) Notify the Federal Insurance Administrator in writing of acquisition by means
of annexation, incorporation or otherwise, of additional areas of jurisdiction.
Section 17. Arlington Municipal Code section 20.64.250 shall be and hereby is amended
to read as follows:
20.64.250 - Variances from requirements.
(a) Generally, the only condition under which a variance from the elevation standard may
ORDINANCE NO. 2020-XXX 20
be issued is for new construction and substantial improvements to be erected on a lot of
one-half acre or less in size contiguous to and surrounded by lots with existing structures
constructed below the base flood level, providing items (1)-(11) in subsection (i), have
been fully considered. As the lot size increases, the technical justification required for
issuing the variance increases.
(b) Variances may be issued for the reconstruction, rehabilitation, or restoration of
historic structures upon a determination that the proposed repair or rehabilitation will
not preclude the structure’s continued designation as a historic structure and the variance
is the minimum necessary to preserve the historic character and design of the structure.
(c) Variances shall not be issued within a designated floodway if any increase in flood
levels during the base flood discharge would result.
(d) Variances shall only be issued upon a determination that the variance is the minimum
necessary, considering the flood hazard, to afford relief.
(e) Variances shall only be issued upon:
(1) A showing of good and sufficient cause;
(2) The submittal, review and approval of a biological assessment;
(3) A determination that failure to grant the variance would result in exceptional
hardship to the applicant;
(4) A determination that the granting of a variance will not result in increased flood
heights, additional threats to public safety, extraordinary public expense, create
nuisances, cause fraud on or victimization of the public, or conflict with existing
local laws or ordinances.
(f) Variances as interpreted in the national flood insurance program are based on the
general zoning law principle that they pertain to a physical piece of property; they are not
personal in nature and do not pertain to the structure, its inhabitants, economic or
financial circumstances. They primarily address small lots in densely populated residential
neighborhoods. As such, variances from the flood elevations should be quite rare.
(g) Variances may be issued for nonresidential buildings in very limited circumstances to
allow a lesser degree of floodproofing than watertight or dry-floodproofing, where it can
be determined that such action will have low damage potential, complies with all other
variance criteria except subsection (i)(1), and otherwise complies with Subsection
20.64.160(a) General standards), Subsection 20.64.170(2)(c), and Section 20.64.220
(Utility systems in floodways and floodplains).
(h) Any applicant to whom a variance is granted shall be given written notice over the
signature of a community official that the structure permitted to be built with a lowest
floor elevation below the base flood elevation will result in increased premium rates
commensurate with the increased risk resulting from the reduced lowest floor elevation,
and such construction below the base flood elevation increases risks to life and property.
(i) In granting a variance, in addition to the findings of Section 20.20.030 (Variances), the
decision-maker shall consider and make findings concerning all technical evaluations, all
relevant factors, standards specified in other sections of this chapter, and (including the
degree to which the applicant proposes to mitigated impacts to) the following:
ORDINANCE NO. 2020-XXX 21
(1) The danger that materials may be swept onto other lands to the injury of
others;
(2) The danger to life and property due to flooding or erosion damage;
(3) The impact to ESA listed species and critical habitat;
(4) The susceptibility of the proposed facility and its contents to flood damage and
the effect of such damage on the individual owner;
(5) The importance of the services provided by the proposed facility to the
community;
(6) The necessity to the facility of a waterfront location, where applicable;
(7) The availability of alternative locations for the proposed use which are not
subject to flooding or erosion damage;
(8) The compatibility of the proposed use with existing and anticipated
development;
(9) The relationship of the proposed use to the comprehensive plan and floodplain
management program for that area;
(10) The safety of access to the property in times of flood for ordinary and
emergency vehicles;
(11) The expected heights, velocity, duration, rate of rise, debris and sediment
transport of the flood waters and the effects of wave action, if applicable,
expected at the site; and,
(12) The costs of providing governmental services during and after flood
conditions, including maintenance and repair of public utilities and facilities such
as sewer, gas, electrical, and water systems, and streets and bridges.
(j) Upon consideration of the factors of subsection (b) and the purposes of this chapter,
the decision-maker may attach such conditions to the granting of a waiver, as it deems
necessary to further the purposes of this chapter.
Section 18. Severability. If any provision, section, or part of this ordinance shall be
adjudged to be invalid or unconstitutional, such adjudication shall not affect the validity of the
ordinance as a whole or any section, provision or part thereof not adjudged invalid or
unconstitutional.
Section 19. Emergency Declaration. The City Council hereby finds and declares
that an emergency exists which necessitates that this ordinance become effective immediately
in order to protect public health, public safety, public property and/or the public peace. This
ordinance shall become effective immediately upon passage. The City Clerk is directed to publish
this ordinance at the earliest possible date.
ORDINANCE NO. 2020-XXX 22
PASSED BY the City Council and APPROVED by the Mayor this _____ day of
_______________, 2020.
CITY OF ARLINGTON
__________________________________
Barbara Tolbert, Mayor
Attest:
__________________________________
Wendy Van Der Meersche, City Clerk
Approved as to form:
__________________________________
Steven J. Peiffle
City Attorney
City of Arlington Council Agenda Bill Item: NB #1 Attachment G
Committee unanimously recommends
Longley and Commissioner Greg Oaks. The subcommittee, along with staff support and a facilitator,
RESOLUTION NO. 2020-XXX 1
RESOLUTION NO. 2020-XXX
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF ARLINGTON, WASHINGTON, PROVIDING FOR THE SUBMISSION
TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF THE CITY OF ARLINGTON AT AN ELECTION TO BE HELD ON
FEBRUARY 9, 2021, OF A PROPOSITION REGARDING ANNEXATION BY THE CITY OF ARLINGTON
TO THE NORTH COUNTY REGIONAL FIRE AUTHORITY AND THE APPROVAL OF A REGIONAL FIRE
PROTECTION SERVICE AUTHORITY PLAN, AND PROVIDING FOR OTHER MATTERS
PROPERLY RELATED THERETO
WHEREAS, RCW 52.04.071 establishes the procedure for elections concerning annexation
of a city into a fire protection district; and
WHEREAS, by the adoption of this resolution the City Council of the City of Arlington states
the City’s intent to annex into the North County Regional Fire Authority (NCRFA) and makes a
finding that the public interest will be served thereby; and
WHEREAS, likewise on October 14, 2020 the Board of Fire Commissioners of NCRFA
approved the RFA Plan amendment to authorize the annexation; and
WHEREAS, the City Council wishes to present the issue of annexation to the voters;
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ARLINGTON, WASHINGTON DOES HEREBY
RESOLVE, as follows:
Section 1. Findings and Description of Proposition. The City Council of the City of
Arlington, Washington, hereby finds that it is in the best interests of the City to submit to the
qualified electors of the City, at the general election to be held on February 9, 2021, a
proposition regarding annexation by the City of Arlington to the North County Regional Fire
Authority (NCRFA), pursuant to chapter 52.26 RCW. If approved by the voters in accordance
with RCW 52.26.060, this proposition would: (1) annex Arlington into NCRFA; and (2) approve
the Amended RFA Plan prepared by the RFA Committee and available from the City Clerk.
Section 2. Ballot Title and Proposition. The Snohomish County Auditor as ex officio
supervisor of elections in Snohomish County, is hereby requested to submit to the qualified
electors of the City, at a special election to be held on February 9, 2021, a proposition in the
following form, which has been prepared by the City Attorney pursuant to RCW 29A.36.071:
RESOLUTION NO. 2020-XXX 2
Proposition No. 1: City of Arlington annexation into North County Regional Fire
Authority
Ballot Title: Arlington’s Resolution No. 2020-XXX proposes annexing the City to
North County Regional Fire Authority. Should this Resolution be approved?
Response: Yes
No
Section 3. Copies to be Filed With Snohomish County Auditor. The City Clerk, or her
designee, is hereby authorized and directed to provide to the Auditor a certified copy of this
resolution and to perform such other duties as are necessary or required by law to the
end that the proposition described in this resolution appears on the ballot at the February 9,
2021 special election. All actions taken prior to the effective date of this resolution and in
furtherance of this objective are hereby ratified and confirmed.
Section 4. Implementation. The Mayor and City Attorney are authorized to make such
minor adjustments to the wording of such proposition as may be recommended by the
Snohomish County Auditor, as long as the intent of the proposition remains clear and consistent
with the intent of this Resolution as approved by the City Council.
Section 5. Severability. If any provision of this resolution is determined to be invalid or
unenforceable for any reason the remaining provisions shall remain in force and effect.
Section 6. Effective Date. This Resolution shall be in full force and effect upon
passage and signatures hereon.
PASSED BY the City Council and APPROVED by the Mayor this 2nd day of November, 2020.
CITY OF ARLINGTON
______________________________
Barbara Tolbert, Mayor
Attest:
______________________________
Wendy Van Der Meersche, City Clerk
Approved as to form:
______________________________
Steven J. Peiffle
City Attorney
Annexation –
City’s Contributions to RFA
OCTOBER 26, 2020
1
RFA Plan Amendment Financial Obligations
If the annexation is successful, the City will have two financial
contributions into the RFA
•The City’s portion of employee liabilities
•The City’s portion of reserves
2
RFA Plan Amendment Financial Obligations
The RFA Planning Committee evaluated eight funding models for
liabilities and reserve fund needs.
Timing of contributions is critical to stabilize cash flow needs for
both agencies.
The following option meets the needs of NCRFA and COA.
3
Employee Liabilities
The employee liability will be equal to the amount of leave balances as of 7/31/2021, and paid
to the RFA in accordance with cash out provisions in the collective bargaining agreement.
The liability is currently estimated to be $596,304 to be paid in full on or before 12/31/2021.
4
Reserve Contribution
The City’s portion of the reserve contribution is $2.6 million, and will be paid using a
combination of cash and non-cash items. Non cash items are debt and equipment value.
$1 million in cash to be paid in full on or before 05/31/2022
$1 million in equipment value transferred to RFA at annexation.
$696,478 retaining first two years of station 48 debt (2022/2023)
5
Summary
•$596,304 employee liability paid in full on or before 12/31/2021.
•$1 million in equipment value transferred to RFA at annexation.
•$1 million paid in full on or before 5/31/2022.
•$696,478 City retains first two years of station 48 debt.
6
September 28, 2020
TO: Honorable Mayor Tolbert and Councilmembers, City of Arlington
Board of Commissioners, North County Regional Fire Authority (NCRFA)
FM: RFA Annexation Planning Committee
Members: Councilmember Marilyn Oertle, Councilmember Jesica Stickles, Commissioner Greg
Oakes, Commissioner Larry Longley
CC: City Administrator Paul Ellis, NCRFA Fire Chief John Cermak, City Fire Chief Dave Kraski
RE: Recommending Adoption of Proposed NCRFA Plan Amendment
Honorable Mayor Tolbert, Councilmembers and Members of the Board of Commissioners of NCRFA:
It is with pleasure and a strong sense of optimism that we forward to you the Proposed NCRFA Plan
Amendment to accomplish annexation of the City of Arlington fire suppression and emergency medical
response delivery responsibility into the NCRFA. We unanimously recommend your adoption of the
Plan Amendment so that the question of annexation may be submitted to the Arlington voters in
February of 2021.
The Plan Amendment is the result of a strong collaborative effort between our two agencies, including
the four of us serving on the RFA Annexation Planning Committee as well as staff leadership from across
the City and NCFA. We believe annexation of Arlington into the NCRFA as presented in the Plan
Amendment will:
• Maintain the quality of fire suppression response and emergency medical services for both our
communities, as well as enable some important service improvements in the near term;
• Provide a more efficient and cost-effective solution for taxpayers, building on the existing
partnership between Arlington Fire and NCRFA;
• Provide sustainable funding for fire/EMS services over time;
• Enable the City to repeal the ambulance utility fee.
The Plan Amendment includes a governance model that ensures equitable representation of Arlington’s
interests within the NCRFA, and will give Arlington voters a direct voice in decisions about how their fire
and emergency medical services are funded.
The Plan Amendment ensures that all City fire department employees will become employees of NCRFA,
retaining their seniority rights and accrued benefits.
Fire union representatives have attended and offered comment at all our Committee meetings, and we
are very pleased that both fire unions have endorsed the annexation.
We were appointed to work to develop this Plan Amendment on your behalf in January of this year.
Thus far, we have met fifteen times as a Committee. We have provided monthly updates to you,
including seeking your concurrence for each major recommendation that is incorporated into this Plan.
We are grateful for your support in this effort.
Fire and emergency medical response is one of the most important services that local government
provides. We are pleased to have had an opportunity to work to develop a plan to sustain and
strengthen that service for the benefit of the residents and business owners in Arlington and NCRFA.
We respectfully request your support for the Plan Amendment and would be pleased to answer any
questions you may have about it.
Sincerely,
______________________________ ____________________________
Councilmember Marilyn Oertle Councilmember Jesica Stickles
______________________________ ___________________________
Commissioner Greg Oakes Commissioner Larry Longley
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 1
NORTH COUNTY REGIONAL FIRE AUTHORITY (NCRFA)
SERVICE PLAN
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Section 1: Background & Needs Statements 2
Section 2: Definitions 3
Section 3: Formation 4
Section 4: Annexation of City of Stanwood 6
Section 5: Annexation of City of Arlington 8
Section 6: Jurisdictional Boundaries 11
Section 7: Funding and Finance 12
Section 8: Governance 16
Section 9: Organizational Structure: Personnel & Administration 19
Section 10: Operations and Services 20
APPENDICES
Appendix A: Jurisdiction Boundary Map 22
Appendix B: Organization Structure 23
Appendix C: Stanwood Real Property 24
Appendix D: Fire Prevention/ Public Education/ Emergency Management for Stanwood 25
Appendix E: Station 99 Meeting Room Policy 28
Appendix F: Arlington Equipment 31
Appendix G: Arlington Stations 32
Appendix H: Arlington Fire/EMS Interlocal Agreements 33
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 2
SECTION 1 BACKGROUND & NEEDS STATEMENTS
Revision BACKGROUND & NEEDS STATEMENTS
section of the RFA Plan is subject to
amendment by a majority vote of the NCRFA
Governing Board.
A. Background and Needs:
(1) The ability to respond to emergency situations by fire protection / emergency medical services
jurisdictions has not kept up with the community’s needs and special service demands, particularly in
rapidly growing suburban areas.
(2) Providing a fire protection and emergency medical service system requires a shared partnership
and responsibility among the local and regional governments.
(3) There are efficiencies to be gained by regional fire protection / emergency medical services delivery
while retaining local control.
(4) Timely development of significant projects can best be achieved through enhanced funding options
for regional fire protection / emergency medical services agencies, using already existing taxing
authority to address fire protection / emergency services needs and new authority to address critical
fire protection projects and emergency services.
(5) The City of Arlington and North County Regional Fire Authority (referred to herein as “NCRFA”)
(which includes the City of Stanwood as a participating jurisdiction) have had a cooperative
partnership, striving to provide the highest level of fire and emergency services to our community
within the confines of available resources through an interlocal agreement for services.
(6) The City of Arlington and NCRFA believe that annexation of the City of Arlington into NCRFA is in
the best interests of the community.
RFA SECTION 1 PLAN REVISION:
The NEEDS STATEMENT section of the (RFA) Plan is subject to amendment by a majority vote of
the NCRFA Governing Board.
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 3
SECTION 2 DEFINITIONS
Revision DEFINITIONS RFA Plan
subject to amendment by a majority vote of the
NCRFA Governing Board.
NORTH COUNTY REGIONAL FIRE AUTHORITY PLAN DEFINITIONS:
The definitions in this section apply throughout this NCRFA Plan unless the context clearly requires
otherwise.
1. "Board", “Governance Board”, or “Governing Board” means the governing body of North
County Fire / EMS.
2. “Stanwood Annexation Date” means January 1, 2019.
3. “Arlington Annexation Date” means August 1, 2021.
4. “Interlocal Agreement” or “ILA” means any interlocal service agreement between NCRFA,
the City of Arlington, and/or the City of Stanwood in providing certain administrative and support
services per the adopted Plan.
5. “Participating Jurisdictions” means the municipal jurisdictions joining NCRFA in accordance
with RCW 52.26. The original Participating Jurisdictions were Snohomish County Fire Districts 14
and 18, both of which were dissolved by a vote of the citizens within each district in 2017. The City
of Stanwood became a Participating Jurisdiction on January 1, 2019. The City of Arlington became
a Participating Jurisdiction on August 1, 2020.
6. "North County Regional Fire Authority" or “NCRFA” means a municipal corporation, an
independent taxing authority within the meaning of Article VII, Section 1 of the state Constitution,
and a taxing district within the meaning of Article VII, Section 2 of the state Constitution, whose
boundaries are coextensive with two or more adjacent fire protection jurisdictions and that has been
created by a vote of the people under RCW 52.26 to implement a North County Regional Fire
Authority Service Plan.
7. "North County Regional Fire Authority Plan" or "Plan" means a plan to develop and finance
North County Fire / EMS, including, but not limited to, specific capital projects, fire operations and
emergency service operations pursuant to RCW 52.26.040(3)(b), and the preservation and
maintenance of existing or future facilities and services.
8. “Cities” means the City of Stanwood and City of Arlington.
RFA SECTION 2 PLAN REVISION DISPOSITION:
The DEFINITIONS section of the RFA Plan is subject to amendment or revision only by a majority
vote of the NCRFA Governing Board.
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 4
SECTION 3 FORMATION
Revision FORMATION RFA Plan
subject to amendment by being re-submitted
to the electorate for approval.
REFERENCE:
1. Authority to form a North County Regional Fire Authority between Snohomish County Fire
Protection District 14 and Snohomish County Fire Protection District 18 is authorized by RCW
52.26.
2. Authority and empowerment of the PLANNING COMMITTEE is provided by RCW
52.26.030.
3. Appointment and participation on the Planning Committee includes the three Fire
Commissioners of each respective jurisdiction in accordance with RCW 52.26.030.
4. Upon successful development and approval of the NCRFA Plan by the NCRFA Planning
Committee, the NCRFA Plan shall be brought to each participating jurisdiction’s boards of fire
commissioners for approval and adoption by resolution for placement of the NCRFA Plan on the
ballot for approval by the respective voters.
ACTIVITY/OPERATION:
1. No current activity or operation of Snohomish County Fire Protection District 14 or
Snohomish County Fire Protection District 18 will change during the planning period of the
NCRFA.
2. Should the NCRFA Plan be ratified with a successful vote by the collective electorate of
Snohomish County Fire Protection District 14 and Snohomish County Fire Protection District 18, it
shall be formed on January 1, 2008.
ASSETS/DOCUMENTATION TRANSFERRED:
1. No transfer of current assets, equipment, documents, contracts, agreements, or records of
Snohomish County Fire Protection District 14 and Snohomish County Fire Protection District 18
will occur during the planning period of the NCRFA.
2. The transfer of assets, equipment, documents, contracts, agreements, and records to the
NCRFA from the respective participating Fire Districts shall occur on January 1, 2008 and be in
accordance with the Objectives identified in this NCRFA Plan.
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 5
NCRFA SECTION 3 PLAN REVISION DISPOSITION:
The FORMATION portion of the NCRFA Plan is subject to alteration only by a revised NCRFA
Plan being re-submitted to the electorate for approval.
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 6
SECTION 4 ANNEXATION OF CITY OF STANWOOD
Revision ANNEXATION OF CITY OF STANWOOD
section of the RFA Plan is subject to
amendment or revision only by a majority vote
of the NCRFA Governing Board.
A. REGIONAL FIRE PROTECTION SERVICE AUTHORITY
1. The North County Regional Fire Authority Plan was initially approved by the voters of
Snohomish County Fire Districts 14 and 18 on November 6, 2007, and NCRFA was formed on
January 1, 2008.
2. Chapter 52.26.300 RCW provides statutory authority for the annexation of additional
participating jurisdictions into a Regional Fire Authority.
B. REVISED RFA PLAN APPROVAL
1. On February 8, 2018, the City of Stanwood adopted Resolution No. 2018-02 requesting
annexation into NCRFA.
2. On June 13, 2018, the Governing Board of NCRFA adopted Resolution No. 06132018-02
to amend the RFA Plan to establish terms and conditions of the requested annexation by the
City of Stanwood. The Amended Plan and the measure for the City of Stanwood to annex into
NCRFA was submitted to the voters of the City of Stanwood at the general election on
November 6, 2018 as a single ballot measure and was approved.
3. As a result of voter approval, the City of Stanwood annexed into NCRFA effective January
1, 2019, thereby enlarging the boundaries of NCRFA to encompass the City of Stanwood.
C. CHANGES IN JURISDICTIONAL BOUNDARIES AFTER ANNEXATION OF STANWOOD
INTO NCRFA
1. Boundary changes that do not require an RFA Plan amendment:
1.1. City of Stanwood annexations of areas included within the boundaries of NCRFA.
Such annexations will not affect NCRFA since the areas will already be within NCRFA
boundaries. Pursuant to RCW 52.26.290, there will be no required asset or employee transfers.
1.2. City of Stanwood annexations of areas not included within NCRFA. On the
effective date of such annexation, the territory annexed shall automatically be included within the
boundaries of NCRFA pursuant to RCW 52.26.290. The territory added to NCRFA by such
annexation shall be subject to the taxation, charges, and bonded indebtedness (if approved as
part of the annexation process) of the RFA. Any transfer of assets or employees that occurs
because of annexation shall be between the transferring entity and NCRFA.
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 7
RFA SECTION 4 PLAN REVISION DISPOSITION:
The ANNEXATION OF THE CITY OF STANWOOD section of the Plan may be amended by a
majority vote of the NCRFA Governing Board.
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 8
SECTION 5 ANNEXATION OF CITY OF ARLINGTON
Revision ANNEXATION OF CITY OF ARLINGTON
section of the RFA Plan is subject to
amendment or revision only by a majority vote
of the NCRFA Governing Board.
A. REGIONAL FIRE PROTECTION SERVICE AUTHORITY
1. The North County Regional Fire Authority Plan was initially approved by the voters of
Snohomish County Fire Districts 14 and 18 on November 6, 2007, and NCRFA was formed on
January 1, 2008. The City of Stanwood annexed into NCRFA effective January 1, 2019.
2. Chapter 52.26.300 RCW provides statutory authority for the annexation of additional
participating jurisdictions into a Regional Fire Authority.
B. REVISED RFA PLAN APPROVAL
1. On November 18, 2019, the City of Arlington adopted Resolution No. 2019-17 approving
exploration of the City’s potential annexation into NCRFA.
2. On ___________, 2020, the Governing Board of NCRFA adopted Resolution No. _____ to
amend the RFA Plan to establish terms and conditions of the requested annexation by the
City of Arlington.
3. On ___________, 2020, the City of Arlington adopted Ordinance No. _____approving the
amended RFA Plan and the annexation of the City into NCRFA, and calling an election on
the matter.
4. The Amended Plan and the measure for the City of Arlington to annex into NCRFA is
being submitted to the voters of the City of Arlington at the special election on February 9,
2021, as a single ballot measure that must be approved by a simple majority.
5. If the City of Arlington voters approve the annexation and the Amended RFA Plan at the
special election, then on August 1, 2021
a. The annexation of the City of Arlington into NCRFA will be effective in
accordance with RCW 52.26.300, at which time the City of Arlington will become a Participating
Jurisdiction in NCRFA.
b. The boundaries of NCRFA shall be as shown on the map attached hereto and in
Appendix A of this RFA Plan.
6. This Amended Plan shall be automatically void if the voters of the City of Arlington do not
approve the ballot measure at the special election on February 9, 2021, in which case the prior
Plan shall be effective without further action of the Governing Board.
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 9
C. CHANGES IN JURISDICTIONAL BOUNDARIES AFTER ANNEXATION OF ARLINGTON
INTO NCRFA
1. Boundary changes that do not require an RFA Plan amendment:
a. City of Arlington annexations of areas included within the boundaries of NCRFA.
Such annexations will not affect NCRFA since the areas will already be within NCRFA
boundaries. Pursuant to RCW 52.26.290 there will be no required asset or employee transfers.
b. City of Arlington annexations of areas not included within NCRFA. On the effective
date of such annexation, the territory annexed shall automatically be included within the
boundaries of NCRFA pursuant to RCW 52.26.290. The territory added to NCRFA by such
annexation shall be subject to the taxation, charges, and bonded indebtedness (if approved as
part of the annexation process) of NCRFA. Any transfer of assets or employees that occurs
because of annexation shall be between the transferring entity and NCRFA.
D. EMPLOYMENT OF ARLINGTON FIRE DEPARTMENT EMPLOYEES
1. Effective August 1, 2021 and in accordance with RCW 52.26.100(6), all employees of the
Arlington Fire Department (the “Arlington Employees”) shall transfer to the employment of NCRFA
at their current rank, grade, seniority, wages and benefits as provided in the Collective Bargaining
Agreement with IAFF Local 3728, except as may otherwise be agreed to through the collective
bargaining process. The City shall pay to NCRFA the cash-out value of City sick and vacation
leave banks in accordance with the City Collective Bargaining Agreement. “Cash-out value” shall
be determined on the date of transfer and shall be paid as provided in Section 7.
2. It is anticipated that the Arlington Employees and NCRFA employees will consolidate into a
single bargaining unit under a single collective bargaining agreement.
3. Arlington Employees are entitled to rollover their Department of Retirement Systems
Deferred Compensation Program to NCRFA.
E. USE OF CITY FIRE STATIONS OWNED BY THE CITY OF ARLINGTON
1. Station 46. The City of Arlington and NCRFA shall enter into a Use Agreement effective
August 1, 2021, allowing NCRFA exclusive use of Station 46 until the conclusion of the facility’s
useful life or NCRFA no longer has a need for the station. NCRFA shall not be charged rent for
such use. The Use Agreement will provide for NCRFA to be responsible for performing all
maintenance, repairs, and improvements to Station 46 commencing August 1, 2021.
2. Station 48. The City of Arlington and NCRFA shall enter into a Use Agreement effective
August 1, 2021 or as soon thereafter as possible, allowing NCRFA exclusive use of the new
Station 48 until ownership of such station is transferred to NCRFA as provided in Section 7 of this
RFA Plan. Upon the commencement date, NCRFA shall perform all maintenance and
improvements to Station 48. The parties estimate that annual rent for Station 48 would be
between $25,000 - $30,000 per year, which is approximately equal to the cost NCRFA will incur
annually to provide fire suppression services to the City Airport pursuant to an Interlocal
Agreement (provided that the City Airport does not service commercial air traffic which would
increase NCRFA’s costs substantially). Accordingly, the parties agree that so long as NCRFA
provides fire suppression services via an ILA to the City Airport, no rent shall be charged for such
Use Agreement. In the event construction of the new Station 48 is not completed by August 1,
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 10
2021, the parties will enter into a temporary sublease agreement for use of the existing Station 48
at no cost to the RFA until the new Station 48 is ready for occupancy.
RFA SECTION 5 PLAN REVISION DISPOSITION:
The ANNEXATION OF THE CITY OF ARLINGTON section of the Plan may be amended by a
majority vote of NCRFA Governance Board.
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 11
The section
of the RFA Plan is subject to amendment or
revision only by a majority vote of NCRFA
Governance Board.
REFERENCE:
1. The authority to define the jurisdiction of the North County Regional Fire Authority is
provided by RCW 52.26.030.
ACTIVITY/OPERATION TRANSFERRED:
1. The jurisdictional boundaries of the NCRFA shall be the legal boundaries of each
Participating Jurisdiction and the former Snohomish County Fire District 14 and 18, which
boundaries are depicted on the map attached hereto and marked as Appendix A of this Plan.
2. The jurisdictional boundaries of NCRFA shall be amended to reflect any annexations of fire
protection jurisdictions into NCRFA pursuant to RCW 52.26.300.
NORTH COUNTY FIRE / EMS AUTHORITY PLAN REVISION DISPOSITION:
The JURISDICTIONAL BOUNDARIES portion of the NCRFA Plan is subject to alteration only by
a revised NCRFA Plan being re-submitted to the electorate for approval.
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 12
SECTION 7 FUNDING and FINANCE
Revision FUNDING and FINANCE
RFA Plan is subject to amendment or revision
by the Governing Board except when voter
approval is required by statute.
A. RFA FINANCES IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING ANNEXATION OF ARLINGTON
1. The operation and administration of NCRFA shall, for the period beginning August 1, 2021
- December 31, 2021, be funded by the following:
1.1 Tax levies of NCRFA (including fire levy under RCW 52.26.140 through 52.26.170
and 84.52.069.
1.2 Because the City of Arlington annexed into NCRFA effective August 1, 2021,
NCRFA will not be able to collect taxes within the jurisdictional limits of the City of Arlington until
2022. Accordingly, for calendar year 2021, the City of Arlington will pay to NCRFA:
a. The unspent portion of the City’s Fire Department expenses budgeted
for calendar year 2021.
b. A cash contribution to pay for the leave banks of those employees who
are transferring to the employment of NCRFA. This amount is currently
estimated at $596,304 but will be calculated as of July 31, 2021 based
on leave banks existing at that time. The City will, not later than
November 18, 2020, determine whether this payment will be made (i) in
a lump sum no later than December 31, 2021, or (ii) in two equal
installments on December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2022.
c. A contribution to NCRFA’s reserves according to one of the following
options, which the City will select no later than November 18, 2020:
Option 1: $1,000,000 on or before May 31, 2022.
Option 2: $848,239 on or before May 31, 2022 and $848,239 on or
before May 13, 2023.
1.3 Service contract revenues, if any. It is recognized that the City of Arlington has
several service contracts with other fire districts. The City may receive revenues for
services provided before Arlington Annexation Date, and the City would be entitled
to those revenues. Such contracts will be assigned to NCRFA as of the Arlington
Annexation Date, and NCRFA shall be entitled to the prorated 2021 revenue for the
time frame of August-December, 2021.
1.4 Transport Fees. Commencing August 1, 2021, NCRFA will be entitled to bill and
collect for Transport Fees for transports originating within the City of Arlington.
Revenue from transports provided prior to August 1, 2021, will be remitted to the
billing agency.
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 13
B. RFA REVENUES
1. Tax Levies. NCRFA shall be authorized to levy and collect taxes in accordance with RCW
52.26.050(1)(b) at a tax levy rate not to exceed $1.50 per thousand of assessed valuation for the
fire levy and at a tax levy rate not to exceed $0.50 per thousand of assessed valuation for its EMS
levy.
2. Fire Protection Contracts. To the extent permitted by law, the NCRFA Governance Board
shall have the authority to pursue and contract with agencies and entities exempt from property
taxes in accordance with RCW 52.30.020 and service contracts with other public agencies.
3. Fire Impact and Mitigation Fees. NCRFA may enter into interlocal agreements with
Snohomish County and/or the Cities of Stanwood and Arlington to collect such fees.
4. Transport Fees. NCRFA Board will charge and collect transport fees in accordance with
policies adopted by the NCRFA Governing Board.
5. Ground Emergency Medical Transport. NCRFA may seek to recover Ground
Emergency Medical Transport Supplemental Reimbursement.
6. Fire Impact Fees and SEPA Mitigation. The City of Stanwood and the City of Arlington
(collectively, the “Cities”), under certain circumstances, have the ability to impose impact fees
and/or require actions of mitigation which may have an impact upon fire protection for
development or other activities within the Cities. Prior to the issuance of a SEPA threshold
determination for an annexation, development or other activity within the Cities which (i) may
materially increase the cost of providing the administrative and operational services specified
herein, and (ii) for which the Cities may charge an impact fee and/or require mitigation, that City
and the Fire Authority shall meet and discuss the impact on the services provided by NCRFA and
the appropriate mitigation or impact fee. Should the Cities impose such fees, the fees shall be
placed into a special reserve account maintained by the City until they are expended on mitigation.
NCRFA and that City agree that final authority to impose impact fees for fire shall remain with that
City.
7. Additional Revenue Options. The NCRFA Governing Board shall have the authority to
pursue, subject to any applicable statutory voter approval requirements and the RFA Plan
Amendment, if required, all additional revenue sources authorized by law including, but not limited
to, benefit charges or other revenue sources specifically identified in Title 52 RCW and Title 84
RCW that are not otherwise addressed in chapter 52.26 RCW.
C. TRANSFER OF ASSETS
1.1 City of Stanwood Assets. The City of Stanwood has transferred to NCRFA the following
assets:
a. The real property identified in Appendix C and any building fixtures, furniture, and
contents thereof. The transfer of Station 99 to NCRFA shall contain a reversionary interest
providing that the title to the land and the station will return to the City of Stanwood if the fire
station ever ceases to be used for fire and/or emergency medical services by NCRFA. The City of
Stanwood is transferring real property identified in Appendix C and any building fixtures, furniture,
and contents thereof ‘as-is’ no warranties attached. NCRFA accepts the real property identified in
Appendix C and any building fixtures, furniture, and contents thereof ‘as-is’ no warranties
attached. Additionally, upon the transfer of the real property identified in Appendix C and any
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 14
building fixtures, furniture, and contents thereof, the City of Stanwood has no further maintenance
obligations or responsibilities including but not limited those in the March 8, 2012 Interlocal
agreement.
Note: NCRFA would continue to permit the City of Stanwood to utilize the large meeting room in
Station 99 as necessary for community needs. The terms of scheduling and use of such meeting
room will be by mutual agreement.
b. All mitigation fees held pursuant to paragraph 6.6 of the Interlocal Agreement dated
March 8, 2012 between NCRFA and the City of Stanwood.
c. City reserves for Fire Department Employee Obligations.
d. All reports, documents, surveys, books, records, files, papers, or written material
used by the City of Stanwood to carry out the fire protection and emergency services powers,
functions, and duties of the City of Stanwood that are owned by or in the possession of the City of
Stanwood.
1.2. City Water Systems. City water systems including fire hydrants and related
appurtenances shall not be transferred and shall remain property of the City of Stanwood or
Arlington, as the case may be.
1.3. City of Arlington Assets. Except as otherwise provided below, on the Arlington
Annexation Date, the City of Arlington shall transfer to NCRFA the following assets:
a. The apparatus/vehicles identified in Appendix F.
b. Equipment, fixtures, furnishings, and all other personal property associated with the
City Fire Department, identified in Appendix F.
c. The station identified in Appendix G (“Station 48”) and the corresponding lease
with the City of Arlington, together with any building fixtures, equipment, furniture, furnishings and
contents thereof shall be transferred to NCRFA. On or before November 18, 2021, the City shall
determine whether such transfer shall occur on January 1, 2022 or, alternatively, on January 1,
2024. The transfer of Station 48 to NCRFA shall contain a reversionary interest providing that the
title to the station will return to the City of Arlington if the fire station ever ceases to be used for fire
and/or emergency medical services by NCRFA. The amount of compensation to be paid to
NCRFA for such reversion shall be negotiated by NCRFA and the City. . The City of Arlington is
transferring the leasehold interest identified in Appendix G and any building fixtures, furniture, and
contents thereof ‘as-is’ no warranties attached. NCRFA accepts the leasehold interest identified in
Appendix G and any building fixtures, furniture, and contents thereof ‘as-is’ no warranties
attached. NCRFA will assume the liability for the outstanding debt on Station 48 commencing
upon transfer of title to NCRFA.
d. All reports, documents, surveys, books, records, files, papers, or written material
used by the City of Arlington to carry out the fire protection and emergency services powers,
functions, and duties of the City of Arlington that are owned by or in the possession of the City of
Arlington.
2. Condition of Assets. All assets transferred by the Cities based on the RFA Plan and any
subsequent agreements shall be transferred free of debt or encumbrances but otherwise on an “as
is/where is” condition.
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 15
D. LIABILITIES
1. On the Stanwood Annexation Date, NCRFA assumed the following liabilities of the City of
Stanwood:
1.1 Continued periodic fire related payment obligations of the City of Stanwood’s
interlocal agreement with Snohomish County 911 and SERS.
1.2 Future fire-related capital investment obligations to SERS and Snohomish County
911.
2. The following City of Stanwood’s Debt/Liabilities are retained by the City of Stanwood:
2.1 The City of Stanwood will retain the liability for the outstanding bond debt on Station
99 and continue to levy tax through 2020 or later as needed to make such payments.
3. NCRFA shall assume the following liabilities of the City of Arlington:
3.1 On the date of transfer of title to Station 48, NCRFA will assume the liability for the
outstanding debt on Station 48.
3.2 Continued periodic fire related payment obligations of the City of Arlington’s
interlocal agreement with Snohomish County 911 pursuant to an assignment agreement to be
executed by the City of Arlington, Snohomish 911 and NCRFA.
4. The following City of Arlington’s Debt/Liabilities shall be retained by the City of Arlington:
4.1 Outstanding debt on Station 48 until title is transferred to NCRFA.
4.2 Outstanding debt on Station 46.
4.3 Liabilities associated with retired City LEOFF 1 members.
RFA SECTION 7 PLAN REVISION DISPOSITION:
The FUNDING AND FINANCE section of the RFA Plan is subject to amendment or revision by
majority vote of the Governing Board except when voter approval is required by statute.
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 16
SECTION 8 GOVERNANCE
Revision GOVERNANCE RFA Plan
is subject to amendment or revision only by a
majority vote of the NCRFA Governing Board.
A. GOVERNING BOARD STRUCTURE AND OPERATION
1. Governing Board. As provided by RCW 52.26.080, the NCRFA Governing Board shall be
established consistent with the terms of this Section and shall have authority as of the Arlington
Annexation Date. The initial Governing Board (“Transition Board”) shall consist of nine (9) voting
members as set forth below. This initial board will ultimately transition to a seven (7)-member
Governing Board consisting of five (5) commissioner districts and two (2) at-large positions not
later than January 1, 2030.
2. Transition Board. Upon the Arlington Annexation Date, the Transition Board shall include
nine (9) voting members, consisting of six (6) elected Commissioners from NCRFA and three (3)
elected officials from the City of Arlington to be appointed by the City Council as follows:
o Position 1 (Commissioner District No. 1). This position is currently filled by the
RFA Commissioner currently serving in RFA Position No. 1 and will expire on
December 31, 2025. Thereafter, this position will be filled by a registered voter
residing within Commissioner District No. 1.
o Position 2 (Commissioner District No. 2). This position is currently filled by the
RFA Commissioner currently serving in RFA Position No. 2 and will expire on
December 31, 2023. Thereafter, this position will be filled by a registered voter
residing within Commissioner District No. 2 for an initial elected term of up to six (6)
years.
o Position 3 (Commissioner District No. 3). This position is currently filled by the
RFA Commissioner currently serving in RFA Position No. 3 and will expire on
December 31, 2025. Thereafter, this position will be filled by a registered voter
residing within Commissioner District No. 3.
o Position 4 (At-large). This position is currently filled by the RFA Commissioner
who was elected at-large and will expire on December 31, 2023 for an initial elected
term of up to six (6) years. Thereafter, this position will be filled by a registered
voter residing anywhere within the boundaries of the RFA.
o Position 5 (At-large). This position is currently filled by the RFA Commissioner
who was elected at-large and will expire on December 31, 2023. Thereafter, this
position will be filled by a registered voter residing anywhere within the boundaries
of the RFA for an initial elected term of up to six (6) years.
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 17
o Position 6 (At-large). This position is currently filled by the RFA Commissioner
who was elected at-large and will expire on December 31, 2023. Thereafter, this
position shall be filled by a registered voter residing anywhere within the boundaries
of the RFA for an initial elected term of up to six (6) years.
o Position 7 (Appointed/Future District 4). This position will be initially filled by an
elected official appointed by the City of Arlington and will expire on December 31,
2023. Thereafter, this position shall be filled by a registered voter residing within
Future Commissioner District No. 4 for an initial elected term of up to six (6) years.
o Position 8 (Appointed/Future District 5). This position will be initially filled by an
elected official appointed by the City of Arlington and will expire on December 31,
2023. Thereafter, this position shall be filled by a registered voter residing within
Future Commissioner District No. 5 for an initial elected term of up to six (6) years.
o Position 9 (Appointed). This position will be initially filled by an elected official
appointed by the City of Arlington. In an effort to reduce the number of Governing
Board positions to seven, this position will terminate as of December 31, 2023.
2.1. In early 2022, after receipt of the 2020 census data, the Governing Board shall
establish the geographical boundaries for five (5) commissioner districts (Positions 1, 2, 3, 7, and
8) as required by RCW 52.26.080(4)(a) and RCW 29A.76. These commissioner districts shall be
established not later than sixty (60) days prior to the filing period for the general election on
November 7, 2023. In determining the geographical boundaries of such commissioner districts,
the Governing Board shall be guided by the following principles: (i) the population of each
commissioner district shall be relatively equal; (ii) at least one (1) commissioner district shall
include the City of Stanwood; and (iii) at least two (2) commissioner districts shall include the City
of Arlington.
2.2 Commissioner positions 1 and 3 which are occupied by commissioners whose
terms expire in 2025 will not be up for election until the 2025 general election (even if the
commissioner occupying the position does not reside in the redrawn commissioner district for such
position).
2.3 To facilitate the possibility that appointed Arlington elected officials may wish to run
for RFA Commissioner seats (and cannot by law run for two offices at the same election), the
terms of office for the six board positions commencing January 1, 2023 will be flexible: either 2, 4
or 6 years, at the choice of each commissioner winning election.
2.4 Except as provided above, all commissioner terms shall be six (6)-year terms.
2.5 In an effort to reduce the number of Governing Board positions to seven (7)
positions, the following procedures will be taken with regards to at-large positions:
a. If at any time, a vacancy occurs in an at-large position, the Board may at its
option eliminate that position by majority vote of the Board. Only one at-large position will be
eliminated in this manner; further vacancies in at-large positions will be filled as provided by RCW
52.26.080(3)(a)(iii).
b. If an at-large position has not been eliminated under subsection a above on
or before a date which is sixty days prior to the filing period for the 2029 general election, then the
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 18
Governing Board shall by majority vote to establish a fair and equitable process for eliminating one
at-large position (e.g., draw lots, etc.), effective as of December 31, 2029.
3. Governing Rules. The NCRFA Governing Board shall develop and adopt bylaws,
governance policies, and rules for the NCRFA Governing Board to conduct business in
accordance with RCW 52.26.080.
4. Authority. The NCRFA Governing Board shall have all the power and authority granted
governing boards under Washington State law and shall include the power and authority to make
any decisions appropriate for NCRFA and for matters related to Title 52 RCW.
5. Compensation of Governing Board. Commissioners of the Governing Board will receive
compensation in the same manner and under the same conditions as provided by law for
commissioners of a fire protection district organized under Title 52 RCW.
RFA SECTION 8 PLAN REVISION DISPOSITION:
The GOVERNANCE section of the Plan may be amended by a majority vote of the NCRFA
Governing Board.
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 19
SECTION 9 ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE:
PERSONNEL & ADMINISTRATION
Revision ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE:
PERSONNEL & ADMINISTRATION section of
the RFA Plan is subject to amendment by a
majority vote of the NCRFA Governing Board.
A. ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE
1. Organizational Chart. NCRFA shall be organized as provided in Appendix B of the RFA
Plan.
B. PERSONNEL
1. Fire Chief. The Fire Chief of NCRFA shall serve as the Fire Chief of NCRFA, the City of
Stanwood, and the City of Arlington. The Fire Chief shall at all times be appointed and serve at the
pleasure of the Governing Board pursuant to a written employment contract.
C. ADMINISTRATION
1. Administration. All current administrative and business functions, agreements,
documents, operations and policies and procedures from the City of Arlington Fire Department
shall transfer to NCRFA unless otherwise noted in the RFA Plan.
2. The Cities’ Retained Administrative Service Responsibilities. The Cities shall continue
to provide the following services: Collection and accounting of Fire Impact Fees, when imposed.
The parties shall negotiate and execute an Interlocal Agreement to provide for the Cities’ collection
of the Fire Impact Fees and disbursement of those fees to NCRFA.
The ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE: PERSONNEL & ADMINISTRATION section of the RFA
Plan is subject to amendment by a majority vote of the NCRFA Governing Board.
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 20
SECTION 10 OPERATIONS AND SERVICES
Revision OPERATIONS AND SERVICES
of the RFA Plan is subject to amendment by a
majority vote of the NCRFA Governing Board.
A. FIRE PROTECTION AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES
1. Current staffing models, deployment standards, field operations, command staffing, and
operational policies and procedures of NCRFA shall be continued at the current level of service.
2. Upon the Stanwood Annexation Date, NCRFA will initially adopt the City of Stanwood’s
Standards of Coverage Document for the City of Stanwood’s jurisdictional boundary area. As
such, services, levels of service, standards of coverage, development standards and customer
expectations on the Stanwood Annexation Date shall remain unaffected.
3. Upon the Arlington Annexation Date, NCRFA will initially adopt the City of Arlington’s
Standards of Coverage Document for the City of Arlington’s jurisdictional boundary area. As such,
services, levels of service, standards of coverage, development standards and customer
expectations on the Arlington Annexation Date shall remain unaffected.
4. All current automatic aid and mutual aid agreements, all interlocal agreements and
contractual services agreements, documents, or memorandums currently in place and affecting
the City Fire Departments shall be transferred to NCRFA on the Stanwood Annexation Date and
Arlington Annexation Date, respectfully, to provide continuous, seamless readiness and
emergency services coverage. A list of Interlocal Agreements for Fire/EMS services which the
City of Arlington provides to other agencies is attached as Appendix H. The Cities’ interlocal
agreement with Snohomish County 911 shall be modified as necessary to provide that NCRFA will
assume only the fire related rights and obligations under said agreements.
B. FIRE MARSHAL/INSPECTION SERVICES.
1. Service Providers:
a. City of Stanwood: In accordance with RCW 19.27.050, NCRFA currently provides
the Fire Prevention Services (“Fire Marshal Services”) listed in Appendix D within the boundaries
of the City of Stanwood pursuant to an Interlocal Agreement.
b. Unincorporated Areas of NCRFA. Snohomish County currently provides Fire
Marshal Services within the unincorporated areas of NCRFA.
c. City of Arlington. The City of Arlington currently provides Fire Marshal Services
within the City of Arlington. Effective on the Arlington Annexation Date, NCRFA will provide Fire
Marshal Services to the City of Arlington pursuant to an interlocal agreement which compensates
NCRFA for agreed upon services. The City of Arlington shall retain the authority to set fees to its
citizens for the Fire Marshall Services and retain the revenues.
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 21
C. EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT SERVICES
1. Service Providers:
1.1. City of Stanwood. Snohomish County Department of Emergency Management
(SCDEM) currently provides Emergency Management Services within the City of Stanwood.
NCRFA currently provides oversight and coordination of the City’s Emergency Operations Plans
and assigns a command staff representative to the City of Stanwood’s Emergency Operations
Center when activated and during drills. NCRFA also coordinates emergency preparedness
planning and training to the City of Stanwood. These services shall be provided pursuant to an
interlocal agreement which compensates NCRFA for agreed upon services.
1.2. Unincorporated Areas of NCRFA: SCDEM shall remain the provider of
Emergency Management Services.
1.3. City of Arlington. SCDEM currently provides Emergency Management Services
within the City of Arlington. Effective on the Arlington Annexation Date, Emergency Management
Services NCRFA will, at the City’s request, provide oversight and coordination of the City’s
Emergency Operations Plans and will assign a command staff representative to the City of
Arlington’s Emergency Operations Center when activated and during drills. The City and NCRFA
shall enter into an Interlocal Agreement to further define the level of any emergency management
services that the City desires NCRFA to provide.
D. PUBLIC EDUCATION SERVICES
1. NCRFA shall provide fire suppression and EMS related public education services
throughout the jurisdiction of NCRFA at such level as NCRFA may determine.
RFA SECTION 10 PLAN REVISION DISPOSITION:
The OPERATIONS AND SERVICES section of the RFA Plan is subject to amendment by a
majority vote of the NCRFA Governing Board.
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 22
APPENDIX A
JURISDICTIONAL BOUNDARY MAP
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 23
APPENDIX B
ORGANIZATION STRUCTURE
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 24
APPENDIX C
STANWOOD REAL PROPERTY
The property commonly known as Station 99, located at 8117 267th Street NW, Stanwood, WA.
Tax Parcel No.: 32043000101400
Legal Description: Section 30 Township 32 Range 04 Quarter NE - BAAP ON N BDY SEC 668FT E OF 1/4 COR TH E 297FT TH S 165FT TH W 297FT TH N 165FT TO POB LESS CO RD LESS RD R/W TO ST OF WA PER POSS & USE AGRMNT REC AFN201003310760 TGW VAC RD PER CITY OF STAN ORD #1120 REC AFN 201004210063 LESS RD R/W TO ST OF WA PER QCD REC AFN 201009290189 - SUBJ TO ESE TO PUD 1.
Note: The transfer of Station 99 to NCRFA shall contain a reversionary interest providing that the title to the land and the station will return to the City if the fire station ever ceases to be used for fire and/or emergency medical services by NCRFA (defined as follows, “more than 75% of the square footage must be used at least 75% of the time and that at least one fire and one EMS apparatus must be housed there to respond to calls on a 24-hour basis.”) .
NCRFA Plan (Effective November __, 2020) - 25
APPENDIX D
FIRE PREVENTION/ FIRE INVESTIGATION/EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT FOR STANWOOD
LIST OF SERVICES
I - PLAN REVIEW AND INSPECTION SERVICES:
The NCRFA will provide limited plan review and occupancy inspections. Annual Inspection
Services for the City of Stanwood within the City's boundaries, as those boundaries may be
adjusted in the future. The description of Plan Review and Inspection Services in this Appendix
is intended to provide an overview of the Services that were previously provided by the Fire
Department within the Interlocal Agreement either by contract to the County Fire Marshal or
between the City of Stanwood and NCRFA. The Services should be construed broadly so that the
Authority will continue seamlessly providing all services previously provided by the Interlocal
Agreement. Plan Review Services include, but are not limited to, administration and enforcement
of applicable fire codes and prevention standards ("Code or Codes"), including the local municipal
code as that section may be amended or recodified by the City.
The NCRFA shall provide in consultation with the City the following Plan Review and
Inspection Services:
A. Direct the management and supervision of personnel performing the Services.
B. Provide comments to the City’s Building Inspectors, who complete the plan check on
Fire and Life Safety issues identified during the plan review and occupancy inspections,
Code compliance and enforcement, and provide recommendations regarding the
development and maintenance of Fire Codes and Standards. Consult with City on
interpretation of Codes as necessary to perform the Services.
C. Perform all other administrative and records tasks necessary to support Inspection
Services for the City.
D. Coordinate with the City the scheduling and conducting of new construction I tenant
improvement inspections for fire code compliance where Fire and Life Safety input
as deemed necessary.
E. Review Special Event applications / sites for fire code compliance.
F. Participate in the Land Use Planning process to ensure code compliance.
G. Coordinate with City the annual inspection program to include one annual inspection
per business occupancy with two re-inspections where necessary, before forwarding
for code compliance.
26
II - FIRE CODE ENFORCEMENT:
The NCRFA shall provide the following Fire Prevention Code Enforcement Services in the City
of Stanwood’s boundaries:
A. Perform annual inspections required or authorized by the Code.
B. Investigate and resolve Code violation complaints or inquiries.
C. Perform all Code enforcement duties of the Fire Marshal, Fire Code Official, and/or
Fire Chief as provided in the Code. If the parties mutually agree, the Cities may
provide employees of the NCRFA with a limited law enforcement commission to
enforce portions of the Code that require such commission (e.g., issuance of
infractions for fire lane parking or fireworks enforcement). The parties acknowledge
that the NCRFA, by statute, has no duty to enforce any provisions of the code or to
enforce ordinances of the City except under the terms of this Interlocal Agreement
and the RFA Plan. Any duty the NCRFA does have to enforce the Code is not
intended to benefit any specific members of the public. The City agrees that all court
costs and other legal costs incurred in the judicial enforcement of the Code within the
City limits shall be paid by the City and shall not be considered an operating expense
of the Authority.
D. Coordinate with the City when enforcement efforts are contested and when the
City is undertaking related non-fire code enforcement efforts.
E. Coordinate with the City on post-disaster building and system inspections
and/or evaluations.
F. Approve and/or review fire safety, emergency evacuation, lockdown, shelter-in-place,
and hazardous materials management plans.
G. Manage the Fire Department Annual Inspection Program.
H. Provide fire protection system confidence test program activities to include
evaluation of confidence tests provided by third parties, issuance of correction
notices and/or notices of violation with the City’s Building officials where deemed
necessary.
I. Manage a Fire Company Inspection Program and coordinate with the City the
follow-up on code enforcement violations that are identified. The parties shall meet
and confer regarding the number of inspections to be achieved on an annualized
basis if the listed is found to be unacceptable.
J. Process Fire Code complaints or inquiries from the public to include data entry,
file creation, and routing of information.
Ill - FIRE INVESTIGATION SERVICES:
The NCRFA shall perform or contract with the County Fire Investigation Services that include
but are not limited to:
A. Investigate the cause and origin of fires, interview suspects and witnesses,
examine fire scenes, document findings and prepare reports, protect evidence,
cooperate with prosecutors and law enforcement, be available for interviews
and courtroom testimony, and other associated duties.
27
B. Investigate all fires that are arson, suspicious, injurious, and fires with a loss of
ten thousand dollars ($10,000) or more if cause cannot be determined by on-
scene personnel.
C. Coordinate arson investigation activities with the applicable Police Department,
as necessary.
D. Respond to all working fires when requested during working hours and all
working fires after hours if available.
E. Participate in regional and state fire investigative organizations and activities
where deemed applicable by the Authority.
Evidence Retention
All evidence gathered during the criminal investigation of a fire or other event for which Fire
Investigative Services are provided shall be collected by the assigned fire investigator and
maintained by the evidence custodians of the City’s Police Department pursuant to the policies
and procedures for the maintenance of evidence set forth by the City’s Police Department.
Cooperation in Criminal Investigations
The NCRFA and City of Stanwood will cooperate and keep each other informed as to the
status of all fires in the City that occur because of suspected or confirmed criminal conduct by
providing status reports of investigations as the investigations evolve. This obligation shall not
be construed to require the disclosure of information if disclosure could jeopardize a criminal
investigation.
IV - EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT:
The NCRFA agrees to provide oversight and coordination on the City of Stanwood’s Emergency
Operations Plan. The NCRFA further agrees to assign a command staff level fire representative
to the City’s Emergency Operations Center in the event that it is activated as well as the
services listed below:
1. Coordinate emergency preparedness planning and training to the City with the
County DEM.
2. Serve as a part of the command staff in the City’s EOC for drills, exercises and in
emergencies. An effective EOC team includes multiple levels of inclusion between
the city and public safety.
3. The City will maintain the EOC equipment and technology, however, the NCRFA will
maintain it as a classroom with projectors, tables, chairs, and televisions.
28
APPENDIX E
STATION 99 MEETING ROOM POLICY
A1. NCRFA would continue to permit the City of Stanwood to utilize the large meeting
room in Station 99 as necessary for both official and non-commercial community needs.
a. Official City of Stanwood meetings and functions would be scheduled utilizing a
calendar tool on the NCRFA Website or by communicating with the NCRFA office
staff.
I. The City of Stanwood would be responsible for setting up and cleaning up
before/after the meeting.
b. Non-commercial meetings will be handled utilizing the modified city policy delineated
below under section B1.
B1. NCRFA offers the use of its certain public meeting rooms to the community for
non- commercial use:
As an extension of its mission to serve the community, NCRFA welcomes the
community’s non-commercial use of its meeting rooms for educational, cultural, intellectual,
recreational, civic, governmental, social, political, or charitable meetings, workshops, lectures,
entertainment, and other uses pertaining to the welfare of the community. Use of the meeting
room is limited to non-commercial organizations.
1. Community Room use is made available on an equitable basis:
Space is made available for use by the public on equal terms, regardless of the beliefs,
affiliations or viewpoints of the groups or individuals requesting their use.
2. The NCRFA does not endorse the activities or viewpoints of those using its
Community Rooms:
Publicity for meetings or programs being held in NCRFA meeting rooms will clearly state the
NCRFA does not endorse the activities or viewpoints of the groups presenting the event. If the
NCRFA sponsors or cosponsors a meeting or program this will be clearly stated in the publicity
of the event.
3. NCRFA sponsored or cosponsored meetings or programs have priority on
Community Rooms availability:
The remaining Community Room space is made available on a first-come, first-served basis.
4. The NCRFA requires completed registration before Community Room use:
Registration includes a signed agreement on forms to be provided by the NCRFA that the group
will abide by all NCRFA policies and procedures.
Use of Community Rooms
29
The NCRFA offers its community rooms for non-commercial use only.
Non-commercial use is defined as groups or individuals that receive no commercial benefit by
using a Community Room. Meetings or programs must not require payment to enter, but passive
solicitation of donations and fund-raising activities for non-profit groups are acceptable. Meetings
or programs do not have to be open to the public.
Commercial use is defined as groups or individuals that receive a commercial benefit by using
a Community Room. This may include active solicitation of donations, charging admission fees,
offering money-making activities, or promoting a commercial business. Meetings or programs
do not have to be open to the public.
The use of community meeting rooms may not be used to further the election or defeat of any
candidate for public office or to support or oppose any ballot proposition.
Reservations
• You must be 18 years old to reserve a room.
• Reservations are not valid until the Community Room Registration form has been approved.
• Reservations will be on a first come first serve basis with a maximum of one-year advance
reservations. No NCRFA facility may be reserved by the same individual, group or entity or
individual who is a member of such group or entity more than twelve (12) times in any
calendar year.
• You can reserve a room in one of the following ways:
Phone:In Person:
Online:
www.northcountyfireems.com
Using the Community Rooms
• Users are responsible for room set-up and take-down. Rooms must be left in their
original configuration.
• Food and beverages are welcome. Meeting room users must furnish their own dishes,
utensils, paper products, and kitchen equipment, and remove them at the conclusion of
the meeting. Trash should be properly disposed of in the receptacles provided and the
kitchen left clean. Users are responsible for the care and condition of any equipment
being used and must clean all equipment used.
• If the NCRFA sponsors or cosponsors a meeting or program this will be clearly stated
in the publicity of the event.
• No activity may be undertaken in the community meeting rooms that disrupt the normal
operation or use of the facility, such as activities that involve disruptive levels of noise,
odors, etc.
30
• NCRFA indoor facilities are smoke and tobacco free. No alcoholic beverages, tobacco,
or drugs shall be allowed.
• Use of candles or any other type of open flame is not allowed.
• Audiovisual (AV) equipment may be available upon request at Fire Station 99. Other
meeting rooms do not have AV equipment available. Items and equipment may not be
stored in the meeting room.
• All community meeting room users must complete a NCRFA Community Meeting Room
Registration form agreement and permission must be granted by the Fire Chief or
designee.
• Users agree to be responsible for compliance with all federal, state, and local laws,
rules, and regulations in regards to activities conducted, sponsored on or about the
facility. Users understand the NCRFA may not discriminate nor endorse discrimination
in the use of its facilities. Users must agree not to discriminate against any person on
the grounds of race, religion, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, marital
status, disability, age or other basis governed by state or federal law in the conduct of
its activities while on or about the facility.
• Individuals or groups who complete the Community Room Registration agreement form
agree to pay for damages to the facility and/or loss of NCRFA property within the facility
resulting from the user’s negligence.
• Organizations that engage in severe or repeated violations of meeting room policies,
library regulations, or civil laws shall be banned from further use of the community
meeting room.
INSURANCE & LIABILITY
Users planning high risk activities, as determined solely by the Fire Chief, will be required to
provide proof of general liability insurance and must acknowledge responsibility that they will
hold the NCRFA harmless from any and all claims by any person(s) arising from use of the
facility and anticipation in the host’s planned activities.
When insurance is required, the applicant has three options:
1. Purchase insurance through One Beacon Entertainment, or similar insurer, at
http://www.onebeaconentertainment.com
2. Purchase private insurance or participate in an insurance pool.
3. In the case of contracting with a vendor, securing insurance through the vendor.
All groups who provide insurance shall provide NCRFA with a certificate of insurance
naming NCRFA, its officers, agents, employees, and elected officials as additional
insureds as respects the use of the NCRFA facility. The insurance limits and coverages
shall be as required by the NCRFA. Alternatively, at NCRFA’s sole discretion, NCRFA
may accept an acceptable letter evidencing insurance coverage.
Cancellation
• Cancellation of community room reservations are made to the NCRFA Administration
Office.
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APPENDIX F
ARLINGTON APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT
Monroe # Asset # Year Make Model Vin# Vehicle Type
32
APPENDIX G
ARLINGTON STATIONS
Facility Year Address Land Other Outstanding Debt
Station 46 1961 137 N. MacLeod,
Arlington .8 acres 9,054 added second story in $1,530,000
Station 48 2020 188th/Airport Blvd,
Arlington 1.6 acres 12,800 New Construction Issuing bonds for
approx $5,500,000
33
APPENDIX H
ARLINGTON FIRE/EMS INTERLOCAL AGREEMENTS
1. Snohomish County Fire District #19 (Silvana) Emergency Medical Services contract to
provide Advanced Life Support services district-wide. Expires 12/31/2022.
2. Snohomish County Fire District #21 (Arlington Rural) Emergency Medical Services
contract to provide Advanced Life Support services district-wide and Basic Life Support
services to the south side of the district referred to as the “AQ-W Grids”. Expires
12/31/2022.
3. Snohomish County Fire District #25 (Oso) Emergency Medical Services contract to
provide Advanced Life Support and Basic Life Support services district-wide. Expires
12/31/2022.
4. Snohomish County Fire District #21 (Arlington Rural) contract to provide Fire
suppression services to the south side of the district referred to as the “AQ-W Grids”.
Expires 12/31/2020, unsure if it will be re-negotiated and continue.
5. East County Fire Support Services contract to provide Apparatus repair. Open until
either party terminates - 90 days’ notice.
6. Snohomish County Fire Marshal contract to provide Investigation services. Expires
12/31/2024.
7. Northwest Incident Support contract to provide Incident support services. Open until
either party terminates - 60 days’ notice.
8. Professional Services Agreement - Dr. Cooper contract to provide Medical control. Open
until either party terminates - 30 days’ notice.
9. ILA - City of Marysville to provide Battalion coverage. Expires 12/31/2021.
City of Arlington Council Agenda Bill Item: NB #2 Attachment H
DEPARTMENT OF ORIGIN Administration; Paul Ellis, City Administrator 360-403-4603 EXPENDITURES REQUESTED: BUDGET CATEGORY: Fire/ EMS BUDGETED AMOUNT: $140,000.00 LEGAL REVIEW: DESCRIPTION: The attached interlocal agreement with North County Regional Fire Authority provides for a cost share for professional services provided to the RFA Planning Committee during the group’s study of potential areas NCRFA and the City of Arlington could collaborate. The shared costs include, Karen Reed Consulting LLC. for
INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN NORTH
SNOHOMISH RFA AND THE CITY OF ARLINGTON - 1
INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN
NORTH COUNTY REGIONAL FIRE AUTHORITY AND THE CITY OF ARLINGTON
REGARDING RFA ANNEXATION EXPENSES
THIS INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT (the “Agreement”) is entered into by and between
NORTH COUNTY REGIONAL FIRE AUTHORITY, a Washington municipal corporation
(“NCRFA”, or the “Authority”) and the CITY OF ARLINGTON, a Washington city (the “City”)
on this 1st day of October, 2020.
WHEREAS, the City has requested to annex into NCRFA;
WHEREAS, the parties are incurring, and will continue, to incur certain expenses
associated with the annexation which are mutually beneficial to the parties (“Annexation
Expenses”); and
WHEREAS, the parties desire to equally share the Annexation Expenses.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises and covenants
contained herein, the parties hereto agree as follows:
1. Term. This Agreement shall take effect upon execution by both parties and the
recordation of this Agreement with the County Auditor or posting of the Agreement on either
party’s website, whichever is later (the “Effective Date”). This Agreement, however, shall
apply retroactively to Annexation Expenses already incurred by either party. This Agreement
shall remain in full force and effect until all obligations of the parties herein have been
discharged, unless terminated earlier by mutual agreement of the parties.
2. Annexation Expenses. The Annexation Expenses shall include those set forth
below and any additional category of expenses which the Fire Chiefs of the parties agree are
of mutual benefit to the parties’ efforts to have the City annex into NCRFA. The following
expenses are Annexation Expenses currently known to the parties:
Expense
Chmelik Sitkin & Davis, P.S. NCRFA
Liz Loomis City
Karen Reed Consulting City
Excise and/or Use Taxes on
Transfer of Personal NCRFA
City
2.1 The Fire Chiefs of the parties are authorized to designate additional expenses as
Annexation Expenses if they are reasonably necessary to the annexation process and are
mutually beneficial to the parties. The Fire Chiefs may do so by executing an Addendum to
this Agreement in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A.
INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN NORTH
SNOHOMISH RFA AND THE CITY OF ARLINGTON - 2
3. Reconciliation. The Parties shall provide each other with monthly reports by the 5th
day of each month identifying the Annexation Expenses incurred by such Party to date.
Within thirty (30) days after the election on the annexation measure, the parties shall provide
a final report to each other. The party that has paid the greater share of Annexation
Expenses shall issue an invoice to the other party, and such invoice shall be paid within thirty
(30) days of receipt.
3.1 Upon transfer of the personal property from the City to the RFA, the party paying
applicable taxes upon the transfer shall issue an invoice to the other party for one-half of
such taxes. Such invoice shall be paid within thirty (30) days of receipt.
4. Miscellaneous.
4.1 Drafting. Each party has fully participated in the drafting of this Agreement.
Therefore, this Agreement shall be construed according to its fair meaning without regard to
which party drafted a particular provision.
4.2 Survival. All obligations of either party as provided for in this Agreement shall not
cease upon the termination of this Agreement and shall continue as obligations until fully
performed. All clauses of this Agreement which require performance beyond the termination
date shall survive the termination date of this Agreement.
4.3 Entire Agreement. This Agreement contains all of the understandings between
the parties regarding the subject matter of this Agreement. Each party represents that no
promises, representations, or commitments have been made by the other as a basis for this
Agreement which have not been reduced to writing herein. No oral promises or
representations shall be binding upon either party, whether made in the past or to be made in
the future, unless such promises or representations are reduced to writing in the form of a
modification to this Agreement executed with all necessary legal formalities by the respective
commissions of the County and the Authority.
4.4 Amendments. This Agreement may only be amended or modified by a written
agreement approved and authorized by the legislative authority of each party.
NORTH COUNTY REGIONAL CITY OF ARLINGTON
FIRE AUTHORITY
By: ____________________________ By: _____________________________
Fire Chief Mayor
Attest: ___________________________
City Clerk
Approved as to Form: Approved as to Form:
______________________________ ____________________________
Authority Attorney City Attorney
INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN NORTH
SNOHOMISH RFA AND THE CITY OF ARLINGTON - 3
EXHIBIT A
Addendum to Interlocal Agreement
This is an addendum to the Interlocal Agreement dated ____ between North County
Regional Fire Authority and the City of Arlington (the “Agreement”).
WHEREAS, the parties have identified additional expenses which should be classified
as Annexation Expenses under the Agreement; and
WHEREAS, the parties now desire to amend the Agreement to include these
expenses.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises and covenants
contained herein, the parties hereto agree as follows:
1. Additional Annexation Expenses. The following expenses are designated
Annexation Expenses pursuant to the Agreement:
2. All Other Terms and Conditions. All other terms and conditions of the Agreement
shall remain unchanged and in full force and effect.
NORTH COUNTY REGIONAL CITY OF ARLINGTON
FIRE AUTHORITY
By: _________________________________ By: _____________________________
Fire Chief Fire Chief
City of Arlington Council Agenda Bill Item: NB #3 Attachment I
1.7 Remote Attendance. From time to time, it is not possible for a councilmember to attend a City
Council meeting. In limited instances, the City would benefit by a Councilmember’s attendance
by means of remote communication. The Council recognizes the benefits of fullest practicable
attendance and participation by its members. Attendance from remote locations is intended to
be an alternative and relatively infrequently used method for participation by Councilmembers.
Remote attendance may occur in the following circumstances:
(a) The City Administrator may approve a Councilmember’s written request for attendance at a Council
meeting via remote communication when there is good cause, such as when travel is required for
City business, personal business or vacation, illness or similar circumstances. The request and the
reasons for the request shall be made in writing or via email to the City Administrator and City Clerk.
The request shall be made as early as reasonably possible, to allow the City Administrator to confirm the
availability of the remote communication technology and any required technical staff to participate in
the meeting.
(b) A Councilmember may attend via remote communication, when approved by the City Administrator,
no more than four (4) times per year, and in no event more frequently than three (3) consecutive
meetings.
(c) No more than two (2) Councilmembers may attend via remote communication during any City
Council meeting, except for circumstances described in paragraph (i), below.
(d) In no event shall the City Administrator approve a Councilmember’s remote attendance request
unless satisfactory video conferencing equipment or technology is available. Satisfactory equipment
shall mean video conferencing software and connectivity to support the use of the City’s preferred
video conferencing platform. The device or technology must allow the Councilmember to pose
and answer questions that are posed from time to time, and to permit the public to see and hear the
Councilmember at all times.
(e) During any meeting that a Councilmember is attending via remote communication,
the presiding officer or City Administrator shall state for the record that a particular
Councilmember is attending via remote communication and the reasons for such attendance.
(f) Councilmembers appearing via remote communication may participate and vote during the
meeting as if they were physically present at the meeting.
(g) Councilmembers appearing remote communication shall comply with all rules and procedures
as if they were physically present at the meeting.
(h) In the case of executive sessions, the City Administrator may permit participation from
remote location(s) only when the City Administrator on a case-by-case basis considers such participation
to be necessary and the City Administrator is confident in the security of such remote
communications.
(i) These provisions may be superseded in the case of pandemic or other emergency during
which the requirements of the Open Public Meetings Act have been suspended by operation
of law or proclamation of the Governor or other official with jurisdiction. The City Council
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is absent, reasonable efforts shall be given to provide all
absent members an opportunity to appear via remote
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technology capable of broadcasting the Councilmember’s
voice attending clearly and sufficiently enough to be heard
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reserves the right to make exceptions to the provisions of this paragraph 1.7 via motion at
any duly noticed City Council meeting.