The council meeting was called to order by Mayor Struck at 5:30 pm. Members present: Councilor Kuiken, Councilor Manlow, Councilor Neve, Councilor Davis, Councilor Hall, Police Chief Stigall, City Supervisor Houk and Clerk/Treasurer Roberts.

A motion was made by Councilor Neve to approve the Agenda, the Consent Agenda and the minutes of the May 24, 2021 regular meeting. The motion was seconded by Councilor Hall. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0

Check #46666 thru Check #46715 - $424,988.65 Including EFT Payments

Check #24947 thru Check #24953 - $120,590.17 Including EFT Payments

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Clerk/Treasurer Roberts administered the Oath of Office and Officer Johnson’s father, Mike Johnson, pinned his badge. It was followed by a round of applause and congratulations for a job well done.

Dominic Miller and Eric Noah from Gray & Osborne, Inc. (G & O) were in attendance to speak on the reassignment of the original G & O contract for the Water Treatment Plant Upgrade. The additional amount requested was broken down as follows - $63,000 Design and $94,000 Construction Management for a total of $158,000. Mr. Miller explained that this particular project has been ongoing for 4-5 years (partially due to COVID-19) and because of the complexity and specialized type of membranes needed this project required two different bids for the work that is being done at the plant. Evoqua for the membranes and McClure & Sons, Inc. for the actual construction. Two agencies – USDA RD and the Department of Commerce are funding the project which also makes the reporting much more detailed and difficult. The additional money will come from the USDA RD portion of the funding which is a loan. Following discussion Councilor Neve made a motion to accept the Contract Reassignment as presented. The motion was seconded by Councilor Hall. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0

Councilor Hall made a motion to accept Ordinance #1561 – Vacating a Portion of the Alley Right of Way as presented. The motion was seconded by Councilor Neve. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0

Councilor Neve made a motion to authorize Mayor Struck to sign the Memorandum of Understanding – Adjusted Rate to the Royal Heights Transfer Station Agreement. The motion was seconded by Councilor Manlow. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0

Councilor Neve made a motion to approve the Land Sale Agreement for the Mill Pond. The motion was seconded by Councilor Kuiken. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0

Clerk/Treasurer Roberts presented information to the council regarding the need for a public records management system. Following discussion Councilor Neve made a motion to approve the contract with NextRequest for their Public Records Management System. The motion was seconded by Councilor Davis. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0

Citizen Craig Spredeman suggested that our parks be better labeled and also when and where the public can provide input about the parks.

• Police Chief Stigall advised that he is glad to finally be fully staffed and that Sergeant Gonzalez, South Bend’s Field Training Officer (FTO) is providing positive feedback on Officer Johnson.
• Police Chief Stigall announced that USDA RD awarded the Police Department the grant for a new police vehicle. It is a 75% grant with a 25% match. As soon as he gets the go ahead, he will get the vehicle ordered.
• Police Chief Stigall reported that he has been working with Axon Enterprises and they will be flying here from Arizona to provide the necessary training as well as the setup for the body camaras that were approved at the May 10, 2021 council meeting.
• City Supervisor Houk reported that the water treatment plant upgrade is going well and is on schedule.
• City Supervisor Houk announced that the Transportation Improvement Board (TIB) Project on Adams Street should be going out for bid soon.
• City Supervisor Houk was happy to report that the field lighting project at Cheney Ball Field is done and working well. This project was funded by a Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) Grant, the Cheney Foundation and the South Bend High School.
• City Supervisor Houk explained that the city crew has been working one person down since 2014 when Dale Hammrich left. The position was not filled because of budget constraints at the time. The city brought in a part time parks person periodically, but the crew has more than they can handle with the day-to-day projects and the parks have suffered. City Supervisor Houk requested the council’s permission to bring the part time parks worker on full time to help alleviate the backlog with parks and to help assist the crew during the downtime when the parks don’t require as much work. Following discussion Councilor Hall made a motion to reinstate the full-time position in public works, moving the current part time parks worker into that position. The motion was seconded by Councilor Davis. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0
• Councilor Hall asked City Supervisor Houk what the status of the docks was. Clerk/Treasurer Roberts provided a brief update explaining that the city is waiting for a signed contract from Quigg Bros, Inc. Permitting is in the works though.
• Councilor Hall asked City Supervisor Houk for an update on the Yellow Deli. City Supervisor Houk advised that he gets a call about once a month to do a locate, but other than that not much has been happening. They still haven’t obtained a building permit. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0
• Clerk/Treasurer Roberts requested the council’s permission to surplus the councilors old Chrome Books since they all have their new iPads now. Councilor Hall made a motion authorizing the surplus of the Chrome Books. The motion was seconded by Councilor Neve. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0

Mayor Struck explained that she had requested $30,000 from the .09 money through Pacific County to help fund the First Street Park repairs but it was denied. She still plans to apply for an RCO grant in 2022 but she does not think it will be funded. The city applied twice for funding for the Mary Rogers Pioneer Park to no avail. The projects are just too small for RCO funding. Mayor Struck suggested that those interested in seeing the city parks improved form a citizens group to fundraise, similar to what the library has done. Councilor Davis asked if it would be okay if she put together a group and she was advised sure as long as it remained separate from the city and only two of the five councilors were on it.

Citizen Craig Spredeman asked how the city planned to support the Mill Pond now that the city has purchased it. Mayor Struck suggested that he call or come into the office and she would be glad to answer any questions he might have.

• Councilor Hall urged all city staff to get vaccinated. He understands it is a personal choice but two thirds of all COVID-19 cases are from North Pacific County.
• Councilor Hall noted that there hasn’t been many boats at the boat launch, but there has been some RV’s and tent campers. He and Police Chief Stigall have been keeping an eye on the RVs to make sure they don’t overstay.
• Councilor Hall noted that Jenny Penoyar is now the manager of the Raymond and South Bend Library. Timberland Regional Library put about $100,000 into the Raymond Library along with about $120,000 worth of staff time for much needed repairs. It looks very nice.
• Councilor Davis asked if citizen Craig Spredeman would like to help put together a Parks Citizens Group.
• Councilor Neve announced that the Kiwanis will not be having their annual Poker Paddle during Come Play on Labor Day this year and they are still debating on whether they will have their annual pancake breakfast.
• Councilor Manlow asked if the city and the South Bend School had come to an agreement about who is responsible for keeping Cheney Park clean. City Supervisor Houk advised that yes, they have and an agreement is being written up. Mesh has also been ordered to help keep the birds out of the kitchen area of the park.
• Councilor Kuiken agreed that they are working on getting through the agreement. He noted that there has been so much vandalism at Cheney Park it is just terrible. Kicked in gates, broken locks, holes kick into the walls, the list goes on and on.

Comprehensive Parks Plan

The meeting was adjourned at 6:43 PM to meet again on Monday, June 28, 2021 for the next regularly scheduled council meeting at South Bend City Hall.

The council meeting was called to order by Mayor Struck at 5:30 pm followed by roll call by Clerk/Treasurer Roberts. Members present: Councilor Kuiken, Councilor Manlow, Councilor Neve, Councilor Davis, Councilor Hall, Police Chief Stigall, City Supervisor Houk and Clerk/Treasurer Roberts.

A motion was made by Councilor Hall to approve the Agenda, the Consent Agenda and the minutes of the May 10, 2021 regular meeting. The motion was seconded by Councilor Neve. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0

Check #46647 thru Check #46665 - $646,361.91 Including EFT Payments

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The public hearing was opened at 5:31 pm. Mayor Struck explained that a Spanish interpreter was available if anyone needed assistance and then she gave a brief overview of what the grant was for. There was no public in attendance and the public hearing was closed at 5:32 pm.

Councilor Hall made a motion to move Ordinance #1561 – Vacating a portion of the Alley Right of Way to a second reading. The motion was seconded by Councilor Neve. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0

Councilor Neve made a motion to accept the Memorandum of Understanding between the City of South Bend & Pacific County Health & Human Services. The motion was seconded by Councilor Manlow. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0

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Clerk/Treasurer Roberts gave a brief update on the reopening of city hall and the guidance that has been provided by the Department of Labor and Industries as well as Municipal Research and Service Center.

Mayor Struck announced that city hall will be opening back up fully on June 1st, all of the staff will return to a normal schedule and council meetings will be back in the council chambers on Monday, June 14th.

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• Councilor Neve mentioned that the Pacific County Historical Society and Museum will be extending their hours to 11am – 3pm effective June 14th.
• Councilor Neve gave a brief summary of the Finance Committee meeting that was held on May 19th. Councilor Kuiken, Mayor Struck and Clerk/Treasurer Roberts were also in attendance. Councilor Neve noted that all funds were in alignment with the budget. All of the questions that the committee had were answered by Clerk/Treasurer Roberts or Mayor Struck. Councilor Kuiken agreed that everything looked great and thanked both of them for doing a great job keeping the city in line.
• Councilor Manlow asked how long the MOU with the Health Department (See Item #6) was for. Mayor Struck explained that as far as she understood it would be paying for three months or $6,000 for past use. She didn’t expect that the firehall would be needed in the future as COVID-19 vaccinations and testing is slowly winding down.
• Councilor Hall commented that on a recent journey through the Prosser and Yakima Valley he passed several Dollar General’s and they all have no store front windows. He was disappointment to see that the one in South Bend will be the same way.
• Councilor Davis reported that she was at Cheney Park over the weekend and the pavilion is still a mess. City Supervisor Houk advised that he spoke to Jon Tienhaara and he was advised that the school is responsible for the park maintenance. Since it is obviously not resolved Mayor Struck and/or City Supervisor Houk will follow up with the school.
• Councilor Kuiken thanked the city crew for doing such a nice job with the lighting install at Cheney Park. There was very low impact to the field and it was appreciated.

None

The Zoom meeting was adjourned at 5:47 PM to meet again on Monday, June 14, 2021 for the next regularly scheduled council meeting.

The council meeting was called to order by Mayor Struck at 5:30 pm followed by roll call by Clerk/Treasurer Roberts. Members present: Councilor Kuiken, Councilor Manlow, Councilor Neve, Councilor Davis, Councilor Hall (logged in immediately after roll call), Police Chief Stigall, City Supervisor Houk and Clerk/Treasurer Roberts.

A motion was made by Councilor Neve to approve the Agenda, the Consent Agenda and the minutes of the April 26, 2021 regular meeting. The motion was seconded by Councilor Hall. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0

Vendors - Check #46610 thru Check #46646 - $51,987.87 Including EFT Payments

Payroll - Check #24940 thru Check #24946 - $122,417.86 Including Direct Deposits

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Councilor Neve made a motion authorizing the surplus of the city’s old garbage truck. The motion was seconded by Councilor Manlow. During discussion it was noted that the garbage truck was sold to the City of Raymond for $8,000. They were desperate as their truck was broke down and repairs were out at least 30 days. This was the City of South Bend’s garbage truck prior to the truck that was purchased in 2017 which was subsequently sold to LeMay’s when the city’s garbage service was outsourced. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0

Police Chief Stigall explained that the police departments policy is decades old with very few updates over the years. Lexipol is composed of attorneys, risk management professionals, policy advisors and experts on policy issues. They put out policy recommendations based off of new legislation and best practices. When new legislation is passed that changes aspects of the police departments job, the policy gets updated and notifications are sent out to the employees that there is an update. It tracks training to insure employees are up to date on any policy changes. Police Chief Stigall noted that he feels that it would be a liability to continue to operate under the departments current policies. It was also noted that the Association of Washington Cities will pay ½ of the cost of Lexipol as they support the city having this type of policy oversight. Following discussion Councilor Neve made a motion accepting the Lexipol proposal as presented. The motion was seconded by Councilor Manlow. Vote: Ayes-4, Noes-1, Absent-0 (Vote – Ayes: Councilor Kuiken, Councilor Manlow, Councilor Neve and Councilor Hall. Noes: Councilor Davis)

Police Chief Stigall reported that HB 1223 requires all police departments to record interviews/interrogations. Currently the department does not have a way to do that effectively. Upon research Police Chief Stigall explained that he found that AXON provides a package deal with includes Tasers/Body Cameras/Unlimited Storage/Redaction Software/Licensing for all of the equipment. He explained the many options that would be available with the program and the replacement of both the tasers as well as the cameras over a period of time at no cast. Following discussion Councilor Hall made a motion to accept the AXON proposal as presented. The motion was seconded by Councilor Neve. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0

• Citizen Craig Spredeman asked about the garbage truck and was advised it was the old truck, not the truck that was purchased by LeMay’s.
• Mr. Spredeman noted that Police Chief Stigall mentioned that he didn’t look for other companies when he spoke about Lexipol and he did a search on his phone and found another company while he was sitting at the meeting. He wondered why other alternatives were not looked at.
• Citizen Linda Buchanan noted that the picnic shelter at Cheney Park is filthy! The garbage is overflowing and there is bird poop everywhere. It looks terrible. City Supervisor Houk advised he would have the city crew take care of it.
• Citizen Linda Buchanan asked the council if they receive an email from a citizen, i.e., her do they normally respond back or just read and then delete them? A brief discussion followed.

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• Mayor Struck announced that city hall will be opening back up fully on June 1st, all of the staff will return to a normal schedule and council meetings will be back in the council chambers.
• Mayor Struck reported that plans for Come Play on Labor Day are in full swing. Everything will be as normally as possible with fireworks, vendors and the annual parade on Sunday.
• Mayor Struck reminded everyone who’s council positions (#3, #4 & #5) are up that filing week is May 17th through 21st. The Mayors position is also up this year.

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• Councilor Davis requested that when the various committee’s meet that a summary of that meeting be presented at the council meeting.
• Councilor Hall noted that there was some discussion on Facebook regarding the police items that were on the agenda. Most were positive, but a few were critical before they even knew what they were talking about. Councilor Hall appreciated Police Chief Stigall’s calm, cool and professional responses.

None

The Zoom meeting was adjourned at 6:24 PM to meet again on Monday, May 24, 2021 for the next regularly scheduled council meeting via Zoom unless otherwise announced.

The council meeting was called to order by Mayor Struck at 5:30 pm followed by roll call by Administrative Assistant Porter. Members present: Councilor Kuiken, Councilor Manlow, Councilor Neve, Councilor Davis, Councilor Hall, Police Chief Stigall, City Supervisor Houk, Administrative Assistant Porter and Clerk/Treasurer Roberts (via telephone).

(Note: Councilor Manlow, Councilor Neve and Councilor Davis had periodic connection issues. Those issues are noted in the minutes if it affected the vote. Councilor Neve was not able to fully connect until Item # 10 – Council Comments)

A motion was made by Councilor Hall to approve the Agenda, the Consent Agenda and the minutes of the April 12, 2021 regular meeting. The motion was seconded by Councilor Manlow. Vote: Ayes-4, Noes-0, Absent-1

Vendors - Check #46587 thru Check #46609 - $83,229.09 Including EFT Payments

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Councilor Hall made a motion to move Ordinance #1559 – Transfer of $36,173.31 from Utility Fund (601) to Water Fund (401) to a second reading. The motion was seconded by Councilor Manlow. Vote: Ayes-4, Noes-0, Absent-1 (Councilor Manlow had audio issues but was able to vote verbally in the office which was heard by Administrative Assistance Porter who was in the office to help facilitate the meeting. She indicated during the Zoom meeting that she heard his verbal vote)

Councilor Hall made a motion to approve Ordinance #1559 – Transfer of $36,173.31 from utility Fund (601) to Water Fund (401) and Ordinance #1560 – Amending SBMC Chapter 3.30 Establishing a Municipal Court Trust Fund (620) and a State Miscellaneous Fee Fund (634) as presented with one reading only. The motion was seconded by Councilor Davis. (Councilor Davis then frozen up and was not available for the vote) Vote: Ayes-3, Noes-0, Absent-2

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• Police Chief Stigall thanked Sergeant Gonzalez for holding down the fort while he was on vacation. The department was in good hands and it was appreciated.
• Police Chief Stigall noted that Drug Takeback which was held on April 24th took in 61 ½ lbs. of medication!
• Police Chief Stigall reported that total calls for his department are up 75% compared to the same time period last year.
• City Supervisor Houk announced that the Water Treatment Plant Upgrade is going well. The contractor, McClure and Sons, Inc., should begin mobilization April 26-28th.
• City Supervisor Houk explained that Rognlin’s, Inc. should begin installing the lights at Cheney Park around April 28th.
• City Supervisor Houk noted that the city has been working with the Dollar General and the Washington Department of Transportation on the design and plan for the rapid flashing beacon that will be installed at Adams Street to the Dollar General.
• City Supervisor Houk reported that the city has been talking with the new owners of the mill pond about possibly purchasing the property. The city has had an access agreement with several previous owners which gets complicated.

• Mayor Struck suggested that due to the unstable COVID-19 numbers that the city not move to hybrid meetings in May as was proposed at the April 12th meeting. She suggested the city wait until June. Everyone agreed that it was wise to wait.
• Mayor Struck explained that Councilor Hall ask to be removed from the Finance Committee since his term as councilor is up at the end of the year and he doesn’t plan to run for re-election. Mayor Struck spoke with Councilor Kuiken and he has agreed to sit on the Finance Committee.
• Mayor Struck reported that the Capital Budget for the 19th Legislative District was released and the South Bend School received $361,000 to upgrade the football field, Raymond received $2.1 backfill money for the Willapa Center because the project came in overbudget. This will allow that project to move forward and the American Legion in Raymond received $88,000 to upgrade their upstairs apartments for additional housing.

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• Councilor Hall noted that he will be out of town for the May 10th council meeting in case he is not able to log on.
• Councilor Kuiken asked about the status of the dock repairs. City Supervisor Houk explained that the city is still in the permitting process, but the city has issued a shorelines exemption permit for the project. Clerk/Treasurer Roberts noted that a contract prepared by Quigg Bros., Inc. has been sent to our city attorney and to Gray and Osborne, Inc. for review. They have both provided feedback and it is now with AWC for review. Once AWC provides their input it will go back to Quigg for finalization.
• Councilor Manlow noted that it is amazing how many people have been using Mary Rogers Pioneer Park with the nice weather!
• Councilor Neve apologized for not being able to attend the whole meeting. Her computer was giving her fits. She encouraged everyone to continue to make up, social distance and wash hands! There are counties that are at risk of moving back to Phase 1!
• Councilor Davis agreed with Councilor Manlow about Mary Rogers Pioneer Park and also agreed with Councilor Neve – Mask Up!

None

The Zoom meeting was adjourned at 5:50 PM to meet again on Monday, May 10, 2021 for the next regularly scheduled council meeting via Zoom unless otherwise announced.

The council meeting was called to order by Mayor Struck at 5:30 pm followed by roll call by Clerk/Treasurer Roberts. Members present: Councilor Kuiken, Councilor Manlow, Councilor Neve, Councilor Davis, Councilor Hall, Police Chief Stigall, City Supervisor Houk and Clerk/Treasurer Roberts.

Prior to the approval of the Agenda, Consent Agenda and Approval of the Minutes Mayor Struck advised that Items #10a – COVID-19 and City Staff- Councilor Hall and #10b – Cheney Park Ball Field Signage – Councilor Hall under Council Comments would be moved under Item #5 Spring Cleanup – Item #5a – COVID-19 and City Staff- Councilor Hall and #5b – Cheney Park Ball Field Signage – Councilor Hall

A motion was made by Councilor Hall to approve the amended Agenda, the Consent Agenda and the minutes of the March 22, 2021 regular meeting. The motion was seconded by Councilor Neve. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0

Vendors - Check #46537 thru Check #46583 - $137,288.09 Including EFT Payments

Payroll - Check #24933 thru Check #24939 - $119,197.07 Including Direct Deposits

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John Kliem from Creative Community Solutions explained that La Center Holdings LLC has petitioned the city to vacate the alley between Lots 18-21 and 22-25, Block 39 of the South Bend Plat, 1st Addition to South Bend. This section of the alley measures 16 feet wide by 109 feet long, or 1,744 square feet. The petitioner owns property on both sides of the alley.

Mr. Kliem has placed a value of $5,979.14 on the section of property requested to be vacated.

Citizen Craig Spredeman asked for clarification on how this type of process works, from the time the application is submitted until approval. Mayor Struck suggested that he contact City Supervisor Houk at city hall or Mr. Kliem since this was a public hearing regarding just the vacation of the alley, not the complete process.

Citizen Joyce Prior (516 N. Quincy) asked where the requested alley vacation was. Mr. Kliem then shared his screen to allow for clarification. It was noted by staff that the alley is only plated, not maintained. Ms. Prior also asked what would stop them from eventually taking all of the alley. City Supervisor Houk advised that per city code they couldn’t do that without all of the property owners’ approval.

Citizen Melody Hardy (621 Oregon) asked if she would gain property by this vacation. She was advised that this doesn’t go to her property, there will still be an alley behind her property (plated only, not maintained)

Following additional general discussion, the public hearing was closed at 5:52pm.

Councilor Hall asked that a google map link be added to the notices in the future, in addition to tax sifter.

Councilor Hall suggested that as the city moves forward with the conditional use permit that there be a requirement for fencing around the property. Mr. Kliem advised that the city code requires that already.

Councilor Hall suggested that the city take into consideration runoff from this project and any type of drainage issue. City Supervisor Houk noted that this is also addressed in the city’s code.

There was a question of design and Mr. Kliem advised that design plans haven’t been submitted yet, but when they are, they will be on the city’s website along with dates for the planning commission meetings and the public comment periods.

After council discussion Mayor Struck asked for a motion to bring an alley vacation ordinance forward for consideration. Councilor Neve made a motion to bring said ordinance forward as presented. The motion was seconded by Councilor Hall. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0

Councilor Neve made a motion to approve South Bend Spring Clean up for June 14-19, 2021. The motion was seconded by Councilor Hall. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0

Councilor Hall asked what is going on with the city staff? Is everyone still alternating? Mayor Struck explained that yes, everyone is still on staggered shifts. On June 1st the city will go back to their regular schedule. Councilor Hall asked if public works was staggering shifts too and was advised by City Supervisor Houk that yes, they are unless it is urgent and then they social distance the best they can.

Councilor Hall explained that he has brought up the signage issue at Cheney Park twice. To date the signs have not been done as he has suggested.

Councilor Hall made a motion that two new signs be put up at Cheney Park, paid for by the school, that say Cheney Park, City of South Bend, South Bend Schools and a reservation contact phone number. The motion was seconded by Councilor Davis.

Following discussion Mayor Struck noted that the city has no authority to make the school put up signage at their cost, but the city can ask them.

Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0

Katie Lindstrom – Pacific County Dept of Health

Mayor Struck introduced Ms. Lindstrom who gave a brief presentation about the current status of COVID-19 vaccinations in Pacific County. She shared her screen with various COVID-19 related information.

As of April 12th, 34.8% have received their 1st vaccination and 26% have received their 2nd dose.

As of April 15th, everyone 16 and older will be eligible to get vaccinated.

Pacific County has retired their waitlist. There are links available to book an appointment. New flyers will be going up soon. www.pacificcountycovid19.com has all of the latest information including a list of clinics where you can get vaccinated. You can also call 360-875-9407 Monday-Friday from 8am until 4pm to book an appointment.

Cowlitz, Whitman and Pierce counties moved back to Phase 2 due to increased cases. Pacific County will stay at Phase 3 for now and will be re-evaluated in three weeks. Everyone needs to continue to social distance.

Councilor Neve asked about a “vaccine passport” to fly and she was advised that, if something like that is required, your vaccination card should be sufficient, but if it isn’t the Health Department can print off something for you if needed.

Councilor Hall suggested better signage at the Port of Willapa Harbor in the future as it was hard to find the right location. Ms. Lindstrom advised that they were aware of the issue and already have a plan in place to improve signage.

Councilor Hall asked if the health department tracks those who have had COVID-19 and then get vaccinated. Ms. Lindstrom advised that no, they don’t track that information.

Councilor Manlow mentioned that he had COVID-19 but was surprised to hear that he could get it again. Mr. Lindstrom pointed out that yes, it can and does happen. Some are more symptomatic, some less. Some get very sick.

• Police Chief Stigall announced that his department is partnering with the R2R (Road to Resiliency) Coalition for their drug takeback. It will be held on April 24th in front of Pioneer Grocery from 10am until 2pm.
• Police Chief Stigall noted that he will be out of the office the week of April 19th and Sergeant Gonzalez will be overseeing his department.
• Clerk/Treasurer Roberts advised she will be out of the office the week of April 26th but will be attending the council meeting while she is gone.
• Clerk/Treasurer Roberts announced that everything is set up and ready to go for the council to start attending “hybrid” meetings. You are welcome to continue to zoom or you can come to city hall for meetings. This will start the first meeting in May – May 10th. The city will continue to offer council meetings via zoom link. It has some great options and benefits.

Mayor Struck pointed out that she will be out of the office until April 26th. She will still be available via phone or email if necessary.

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• Councilor Hall took us on a trip down memory lane discussing various businesses in South Bend that have come and gone since the 1970’s. There were many that have gone over the years, but not many that have come and stayed. At previous council meetings it had been mentioned by citizens that there should be rules to prevent businesses like the Dollar General from coming to South Bend. Councilor Hall is not sure what we would have had or wanted if that would have been the thinking back in the 1970’s and 1980’s.
• Councilor Manlow thanked Mayor Struck for having Katie Lindstrom from the Pacific County Health Department attend the council meeting. It was appreciated.

None

The Zoom meeting was adjourned at 6:39 PM to meet again on Monday, April 26, 2021 for the next regularly scheduled council meeting via Zoom unless otherwise announced.

The council meeting was called to order by Mayor Struck at 5:30 pm followed by roll call by Clerk/Treasurer Roberts. Members present: Councilor Kuiken, Councilor Manlow, Councilor Neve, Councilor Davis, Councilor Hall, Police Chief Stigall, City Supervisor Houk and Clerk/Treasurer Roberts.

Prior to the approval of the Agenda, Consent Agenda and Approval of the Minutes Clerk/Treasurer Roberts advised that there was an amendment to the Consent Agenda. The new amount was $198,776.93 and an additional Check #46536 was added, payable to Rognlin’s, Inc for $6,042.00.

A motion was made by Councilor Neve to approve the Agenda, the amended Consent Agenda and the minutes of the March 8, 2021 regular meeting. The motion was seconded by Councilor Manlow. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0

Vendors - Check #46510 thru Check #46536 - $198,776.93 Including EFT Payments

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John Kliem from Creative Community Solutions gave a brief overview of the alley vacation and the process that will be involved including the planning commission as well as the city council as this goes through the required processes.

Councilor Hall made a motion to accept Resolution #2021-02 – Setting a Public Hearing for Alley Vacation as presented. The motion was seconded by Councilor Neve. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0

• Mayor Struck introduced the new Pacific County Transit Director, Michael Wagner. Mr. Wagner gave a presentation on the current status of the Pacific County Transit including the rerouting of traffic due to the landslide on SR401. The issue has been addressed and the route has not been eliminated. Mr. Wagner wanted everyone to know that Dial-a-Ride is not just available for those that are over 65 and/or the disabled. It can be used to get to work, appointments, etc. The trolly bus will be back in business. It will run in Long Beach during the summer months and in our area in the fall/winter months. Lastly Mr. Wagner explained that as of 2030 there will be a federal mandate that all buses run on non-fossil fuels. Electric or some other options are being looked at including hydrogen fuel cells. Councilor Hall asked if the transit has looked at using smaller buses and Mr. Wagner advised that yes, it is being looked at.
• Citizen Craig Spredeman asked if the city and/or the planning commission looked at the Shoreline Master Plan to consider changes that would not allow businesses to build in locations that maybe citizens didn’t want them to. Example Dollar General. Mayor Struck explained that those plans are always a work in progress. They are revised approximately every 5 years and those citizens that would like to see changes to those plans, including the comprehensive plan, need to attend the planning commission meetings and make their ideas known. These plans are not updated except on a specifically scheduled rotation.

• Police Chief Stigall advised that Officer Johnson is about ½ way through the police academy as is doing well. Police Chief Stigall is looking forward to being fully staffed in a few months.
• City Supervisor Houk explained that the “Notice to Proceed” has been signed for the Water Treatment Plant upgrades. The start date is April 5th and it has a 130-day substantial completion time line.
• City Supervisor Houk reported that the raw water transmission line at the Martin Creek impoundment was damaged a couple of weeks ago. The crew along with Ashley Construction is doing the repairs. They are about 3 days into the fix which should take about a week which is ahead of what was anticipated. When this is repaired it will replace the last section of steel pipe there. From the treatment plant to the impoundment will be C900 PVC pipe.
• Clerk/Treasurer again thanked the office staff for covering for her while she was out of the office. Today is her first day back and it is good to be back.

• Mayor Struck reported that 20% of Pacific County has been fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and at least 10% have received their first vaccine. Washington State moves to Phase 3 today which means restaurants can go to 50% capacity (was 25%) as well as other businesses can reopen and/or have less restrictions.
• Mayor Struck explained that her plan for city hall reopening will be mid-June. COVID-19 vaccines should be readily available for everyone by May. To allow everyone to get the vaccine if they choose, including the waiting time between the first and second vaccine would put the timeline right around June at which time the city would resume full operations. Mayor Struck explained that people are still being assisted if they come to the door. They are allowed inside if necessary. It is rare though that people need or want to come in. No one is turned away or ever refused service.

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• Councilor Davis asked Mayor Struck if she would please read the information that she had sent them regarding some information that was circulating on Facebook about areas of contamination from the wastewater treatment plant (outfall). Clerk/Treasurer Roberts had the information and read it for the record, “I spoke with Dept of Health this morning and want to provide you with an update on this. Looking at the DOH Shellfish map, there are a couple of area with closures – a red, hatched area out on the coast and a second, brown area near the mouth of the river where it empties into the bay.
  The red, hatched area is a closure due to domoic acid. This is a naturally occurring biotoxin and is unrelated to discharges from the regional treatment plant. I’m not an expert, but I would expect this closure to be lifted at some point when the biotoxin is no longer in the area.
  The brown area is a closure related to potential risks of discharge from the regional treatment plant if an upset were to occur. It’s important to note that the closure is based on potential risks (not actual discharges), in order to ensure protection of human health. This closure was actually established upon data from the old treatment systems in South Bend and Raymond and has been in place for a long time. I don’t expect this area to be reopened any time soon, although DOH could re-assess the extent of the closed area at some point in time if the re-evalute the risk associated with the newer regional treatment facility.
  I hope this provides some clarity for you.” Steve – Department of Ecology
• Councilor Neve announced that she has now had her second vaccine and had no reaction! She reminded everyone that the Pacific County Historical Society and Museum reopens on April 2nd. All of the front desk workers have been fully vaccinated and are anxious to get back to volunteering!
• Councilor Hall commented about the Facebook discussion regarding the map and the brown areas. (See Councilor Davis’ comment) He mentioned the time that the sewer line that runs under the river failed and that the city’s insurance company paid the canneries that were forced to shut down until it was fixed.
• Councilor Hall thanked Police Chief Stigall for finally facilitating the removal of the boats along Highway 101 that have been an eyesore for at least 10 years.
• Councilor Hall reported that he and Councilor Manlow recently had another Police Committee Meeting. In the past the structure has been weak but their meetings have been good.
• Councilor Hall explained that the expanded access that Timberland Regional Library has discussed will probably not happen in South Bend. There are too many variables in South Bend that could create an issue.
• Councilor Hall noted that the Timberland Regional Library Board has approved the purchase of two book mobiles. It will probably take 1 to 1 ½ years before they will be on the road though.

REVIEW OF COVID-19 & STAFF (COUNCILOR HALL)

The Zoom meeting was adjourned at 6:12 PM to meet again on Monday, April 12, 2021 for the next regularly scheduled council meeting via Zoom unless otherwise announced.

Notice of Hearing
Alley Vacation Petition by La Center Holdings, LLC

La Center Holdings LLC has petitioned the city to vacate the alley between Lots 18 – 21 and 22-25, Block 39 of the South Bend Plat, 1st Addition to South Bend. This section of the alley measures 16 feet wide by 109 feet long, or 1,744 square feet. The petitioner owns property on both sides of the alley.

The South Bend City Council will hold a hearing on the proposed vacation on April 12, 2021 beginning at 5:35 PM. Any person may provide oral or written comment at the hearing via Zoom. The Zoom link to the public hearing is as follows:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89547366416?pwd=OHgvN2xDeGM5VjR2bjFkOGV5KytBZz09
Meeting ID: 895 4736 6416 Passcode: 009391.

Please submit written comments to the city no later than 4:00 PM April 12, 2021, South Bend City Hall, PO Box 9, South Bend, WA 98586 or email them to Dee Roberts

If you have questions, please contact Dennis Houk, City Supervisor, at (360) 875-5571 or by email.

The council meeting was called to order by Mayor Struck at 5:30 pm followed by roll call by Clerk/Treasurer Roberts. Members present: Councilor Kuiken, Councilor Manlow, Councilor Neve, Councilor Davis, Councilor Hall, Police Chief Stigall, City Supervisor Houk and Clerk/Treasurer Roberts.

A motion was made by Councilor Hall to approve the Agenda, Consent Agenda and the minutes of the February 22, 2021 regular meeting. The motion was seconded by Councilor Neve. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0

Vendors - Check #46482 thru Check #46509 - $32,579.20 Including EFT Payments

Payroll - Check #24926 thru Check #24932 - $113,181.27 Including Direct Deposits

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Mayor Struck opened the public hearing at 5:32pm. There was no public comment and the public hearing was closed at 5:32pm.

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• City Supervisor Houk explained that the dock repair is moving forward. Marine Floats Corporation out of Tacoma has begun the permitting process on behalf of the city.
• City Supervisor Houk noted that the pre-construction meeting for the Water Treatment Plant Upgrade project went well last week. The city, Gray & Osborne, Inc., the contractor (McClure & Sons, Inc.) and both funding agencies (USDA RD and Dept of Commerce-CDBG) attended. Due to concerns about equipment lead time the “Notice to Proceed” has been postponed for 30 days. This will allow more time for submittals. The contract completion time is 130 days after the ”Notice to Proceed” is signed.
• City Supervisor Houk mentioned that the Dollar General is getting underway with ground work and utilities. All of the permitting has been approved and secured. Councilor Hall asked what the orange and white flags were for on the Harbor Rock property. City Supervisor Houk advised that he suspected they were utility locates.
• City Supervisor Houk reported that the city crew along with the Washington Department of Transportation and a contractor removed several danger trees last week which included some along Highway 101 South, a couple on “D” Street going to the Mill Pond and a couple at the Boat Launch.
• City Supervisor Houk announced that the restrooms at Mary Rogers Pioneer Park are almost ready to open. They will open either late this week or on Monday. There are a couple of items that will be delivered this week that need to be installed inside the restrooms. The city plans to install security cameras at the Park in the near future as well.
• City Supervisor Houk explained that the guardrail at Pump Station #2 (Highway 101 & Kendrick) was severely damaged. Whatever hit it severed most of the posts. It has been repaired.
• City Supervisor Houk reported that the Adams Street Reconstruction Project should go out for bid by March 22nd. This is a Transportation Improvement Board (TIB) funded project that was awarded two years ago but was postponed due to a shortfall in TIB funds. The total cost of the project is $762,710 and it goes from Highway 101 to Water Street (3 blocks). It is for asphalt reconstruction and sidewalks on the west side of Adams to First Street. The city was also able to get a crossing at Adams and Highway 101 with rapid flashing beacons. The cost will be covered by the Dollar General, but will tie in with the Adams Street Reconstruction Project. On a side note, the crew was able to install a new water main in this area in preparation of this reconstruction project.
• Clerk/Treasurer thanked the office staff for covering for her while she has been quarantined. If all goes as planned, she will be back in the office on Monday, March 15th.

• Mayor Struck mentioned the closing of the Alder House, which was announced today. Personally, she hopes that someone steps in and takes the building over, either as a drug treatment facility or for the homeless. Both of which are desperately needed.
• Mayor Struck announced that there are currently 41 active COVID-19 cases in Pacific County. It has been reported that by May/June everyone that wants a vaccine should be able to get one. Twenty-four percent of the population of Pacific County has been vaccinated.
• Mayor Struck advised the council that the preliminary numbers that have be released by the State of Washington show that the City is in line for approximately $303,000 in new stimulus money. This money has not been appropriated yet, the city has no idea what the parameters will be for spending it or the timeline for the use of it.

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• Councilor Manlow asked for clarification on which areas the Adams Street Reconstruction project would encompass which City Supervisor Houk provided.
• Councilor Neve reminded everyone that the Pacific County Historical Society and Museum would be reopening on Friday, April 2nd. Masks and gloves will be required (and provided if needed) and a limited amount of people will be allowed in the lobby. The volunteers are ready to get back to work.
• Councilor Hall thanked City Supervisor Houk and the crew for their quick response to his request to have two danger trees removed at the boat launch.
• Councilor Kuiken noted that it was great to see two very worthwhile grants in the works – the TIB grant and the grant for a new police care. He is proud to sit on the council and appreciates the staff for all of their hard work obtaining them.

None

The Zoom meeting was adjourned at 5:49 PM to meet again on Monday, March 22, 2021 for the next regularly scheduled council meeting via Zoom unless otherwise announced.

The council meeting was called to order by Mayor Struck at 5:30 pm followed by roll call by Clerk/Treasurer Roberts. Members present: Councilor Kuiken, Councilor Manlow, Councilor Neve, Councilor Davis, Councilor Hall, Police Chief Stigall, City Supervisor Houk and Clerk/Treasurer Roberts.

A motion was made by Councilor Neve to approve the Agenda, Consent Agenda and the minutes of the February 8, 2021 regular meeting. The motion was seconded by Councilor Hall. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0

Vendors - Check #46451 thru Check #46481 - $88,187.55 Including EFT Payments

None

Prior to opening the public hearing Mayor Struck noted that a Spanish interpreter was available should anyone from the public need assistance.

Mayor Struck opened the public hearing at 5:33pm. She explained that the 4th Street Reconstruction Project was complete and this was an opportunity for the South Bend citizens to comment on the project. There was no public comment and the public hearing was closed at 5:33pm.

Councilor Neve made a motion to accept Ordinance #1558 – Amending Chapter 15.20.270 – Off Street Parking as presented. The motion was seconded by Councilor Kuiken. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0

Councilor Neve made a motion to accept the Southwest Washington Regional Transportation Planning Organization Interlocal Agreement as presented. The motion was seconded by Councilor Manlow. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0

Councilor Neve made a motion to accept Resolution #2021-01 – Adopting the SWRTPO Interlocal Agreement as presented. The motion was seconded by Councilor Davis. Vote: Ayes-5, Noes-0, Absent-0

Mayor Struck proclaimed March 2021 as Red Cross Month. She read the Proclamation for the record.

Citizen Craig Spredeman requested some gravel on Pine Street.

• Police Chief Stigall explained that the Pacific County Joint Drug Task Force served three search warrants recently all of which were successful. Police Chief Stigall noted that it is nice to see results and great teamwork among all of the agencies.
• Councilor Hall asked Police Chief Stigall about the digital speed signs. Police Chief Stigall explained that they were put up by the Department of Transportation not by his department. From what he understands they are only intended to be up for a limited amount of time, maybe a couple of weeks.
• City Supervisor Houk pointed out that the weather has been pounding the city and keeping the crew busy. The crew has been diligent, staying on top of the snow, ice and constant rain.
• Clerk/Treasurer Roberts noted that she just finished the last of the public records requests that she had been inundated with. Between the public records requests and information gathering requests prior to that she had approximately 50 requests from one individual.

• In response to the discussion that was held at the February 8, 2021 council meeting Mayor Struck explained that she has been reviewing various grant options for the First Street park. She plans to apply for .09 funding with an application deadline of April 2021. The city could expect to receive around $25,000 if approved and generally that money is used as leverage when applying for funding from the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO). Those applications are not due until 2022. You do get extra points when you have matching funds available, but Mayor Struck is not sure how successful the city will be securing funding through RCO. The city tried twice to fund Mary Rogers Pioneer Park through RCO and was denied both times because they considered the project too small. These are very competitive grants and typically only large projects tend to get funded. First Street Park is not any bigger than Mary Rogers Pioneer Park. The city will try though.
• Mayor Struck announced that Teresa Ariss’s fundraiser to replace the Christmas lights in South Bend was very successful. She was able to raise all of the funds necessary and she recently ordered 28 lights to go up along Highway 101 over Christmas. Nice job Teresa!
• Councilor Hall asked if the city had an update on the docks. Clerk/Treasurer Roberts explained that she had been in contact with Matt Zepeda from Quigg Brothers, and they will be starting the application process for replacement of the docks. The city’s insurance has agreed to pay for the replacement of the docks, but there are a few pieces of the project that the third-party insurance company has questions about. They have hired an “expert” to review the dock to determine what they feel was the cause of the failure of the dock.

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• Councilor Neve happily announced that the Pacific County Historical Society and Museum would be reopening on April 2nd. All of the volunteers will be vaccinated and are anxious to get back to business.
• Councilor Manlow thanked the Public Works crew for a great job, in spite of the weather!
• Councilor Manlow asked Mayor Struck if there was any updates on the COVID-19 trends? Mayor Struck explained that there are only 7 active cases right now which is very good. There is only approximately 200 on the vaccine wait list with over 1,000 vaccinated. South County had twice as many on the wait list, but they are getting there too.
• Councilor Davis updated the council and staff on the Joint Pacific County Housing Authority (JPCHA) happenings. The purchase of Pacific Place closes in May. The housing project in Raymond went to bid and came in $2,000,000 to $5,000,000 over bid due to lumber prices which have went up 140%. They are currently looking for additional funding, possibly through the State Legislature. They were ready to break ground so this will no doubt delay the project.

None

The Zoom meeting was adjourned at 5:57 PM to meet again on Monday, March 8, 2021 for the next regularly scheduled council meeting via Zoom unless otherwise announced.