City Council
Regular MeetingLakewood, WA · October 15, 2016
Agenda
October 11, 2016
NOTICE
LAKEWOOD CITY COUNCIL RETREAT
Notice is hereby given that the Lakewood City Council will hold a Special
Meeting on Saturday, October 15, 2016, at 8:30 a.m., in the Mt. Rainier
Conference Room, Third Floor, Lakewood City Hall, 6000 Main Street SW,
Lakewood, Washington.
The purpose of the special meeting is to discuss the State Legislative Agenda,
Legislative Policy Manual and Federal priorities.
Alice M. Bush, MMC
City Clerk
The Mt. Rainier Conference Room is accessible to persons with disabilities. Persons
requesting special accommodations or language interpreters should contact the City Clerk’s
Office, 589-2489, as soon as possible in advance of the Council meeting so that an attempt
to provide the special accommodations can be made.
LAKEWOOD CITY COUNCIL RETREAT
AGENDA
Saturday, October 15, 2016
8:30 A.M.
City of Lakewood
Mount Rainier Conference Room
6000 Main Street SW
Lakewood, WA 98499
Page No.
Call to Order
( 3) Review of the 2017-2019 StateLegislative Agenda, Legislative Policy
Manual and Federal Priorities
Adjournment
The Mount Rainier Conference Room is accessible to persons with
disabilities. Persons requesting special accommodations or language
interpreters should contact the City Clerk’s Office, 589-2489, as soon as
possible in advance of the Council meeting so that an attempt to provide the
special accommodations can be made.
http://www.cityoflakewood.us
City Hall will be closed 15 minutes after adjournment of the meeting.
CITY OF L AKE W OOD, W AS HINGTON
2017-2019 Biennial Legislative Agenda
The City of Lakewood adopts a biennial legislative agenda. Thanks to the efforts of the City’s legislative
delegation, the City has accomplished a great deal over the past several legislative sessions. At the same
time, there is more to do to keep Lakewood moving into the future.
Fort Steilacoom Park: Transfer Ownership
Fort Steilacoom Park is currently owned by the state (DSHS), and leased to the City of Lakewood. As the
primary caretaker of the park, the city has invested $10.9 million in improvements to the park. Pierce
College leases DSHS-owned land adjacent to the park. Both the City and Pierce College request that the
Legislature authorize the transfer of ownership from the State to the City and College.
Increased & Permanent Funding for the Western State Hospital Community Policing Program
Since 2007 the City of Lakewood has operated a highly effective neighborhood policing team to respond
to hundreds of calls for police service at Western State Hospital. The City requests full and permanent
funding for this program: roughly $621,000 per biennium. Current funding level is $462,000 per
biennium, causing the City to subsidize the program with $159,000. Lakewood also receives $90,000 per
biennium to provide basic police services to Western State Hospital.
Capital Funding Request: Fort Steilacoom Park improvements
Fort Steilacoom Park accommodates over 1 million visitors each year. The combination of aging
infrastructure and high volumes of use require that the city improve the park’s utilities and roads.
Lakewood requests $1.45 million to extend water, sewer and electric utilities to building structures in the
park and to improve the main road into the park.
Capital Funding Request: Motor Avenue Complete Streets Project
The City of Lakewood has started designing a Complete Streets Project in the Central Business District
on Motor Avenue. The Motor Avenue project will create a destination gathering place for its residents
and visitors a by creating an attractive, pedestrian-friendly place in the city, that fosters mixed
use development. Lakewood requests $2.2 million to make road improvements, underground utilities,
and improve pedestrian access.
Support for WSDOT Funding Request: Relocation of WSDOT Maintenance Facility in Lakewood
Lakewood supports funding of $16 million to relocate the WSDOT Maintenance Facility currently
located in Lakewood on Pacific Highway South. The relocation of this facility is critical in supporting the
City’s economic development goals. Lakewood has identified a comparable location that would allow for
easy access to I-5, creating a win-win for both the City and for Washington State.
Contact Information:
John J. Caulfield, City Manager
6000 Main Street SW
Lakewood, WA 98499
253-983-7703
jcaulfield@cityoflakewood.us
Briahna Murray, Vice President
Gordon Thomas Honeywell
Governmental Affairs
Adopted by City Council 253- 310-5477
October XX, 2016 bmurray@gth-gov.com
003
Local Project Information
Fort Steilacoom Park Property Transfer
Project Description: Fort Steilacoom Park is an important public facility in the South Sound region. This
500 acre property is comprised of several parcels, all of which are currently owned by the State. The City
has been responsible for the property for many years, most recently through an assumed lease. Even prior
to that, since incorporation in 1996, the City of Lakewood has invested time and money in managing,
maintaining and making significant capital improvements to this historic and regional park. The City will
continue to provide a well maintained park which serves visitors from throughout the Pacific Northwest
with active and passive areas, including; off-leash dog park, historic cemetery, natural open space areas,
playgrounds, organized sports fields and trail system. Plans for the future of the park are detailed in
various planning documents as well as the City’s strategic “Legacy Plan”, six year capital improvement
plan and current biennial budget. The City’s investment at this site, to date, is $10.9 million.
The property includes multiple liabilities that the City willingly plans to assume when the transfer is
complete. Recognizing the costs associated with these liabilities, the City may request future state funds
through capital funding and grant programs.
The proposed budget proviso language is:
By June 30, 2018, the Department of Social and Health Services shall transfer deed of the 484 acre
property commonly known as the Fort Steilacoom Parcel to the City of Lakewood and Pierce College.
Each receiving party shall receive the land covered by their current leases. When the deed is transferred
to the City of Lakewood and Pierce College, the current leases expire. The transfer must be at no cost to
the city or college. The City of Lakewood shall continue to maintain and operate its land as a park. The
property includes multiple liabilities that the City willingly plans to assume when the transfer is
complete. Recognizing the costs associated with these liabilities, the City may request future state funds
through capital funding and grant programs.
Western State Hospital
Ball Fields
Play & Picnic Area
Off-Leash
Dog Park
Cemetery &
Pierce College Barns
Waughop Lake
004
Year Improvement Cost Estimate
2017 Gathering Space / Outdoor stage $800,000
2018 Waughop Lake Water Quality Improvements $20,000 - $5 million
2019 Sport Field Lights $1,200,000
2020 Park Entrance Improvements / Traffic Circle $1,400,000
2021 Historic Barn Restoration includes restroom facility $2,000,000
005
Western State Hospital Community Policing Program
The City of Lakewood requests that funding for the highly successful
Community Policing Program at Western State Hospital
be made permanent and set at a level that
fully covers the cost of these services.
Since 2007, the City has operated a highly effective community policing program that provides dedicated
police personnel whose specific duties are to provide response, reporting, and investigative services above
and beyond the basic patrol response; creating a safer environment for Western State Hospital and the
surrounding neighborhoods. Since 2007, the state operating budget has included $462,000 to fund the
program; however, despite increasing costs, inflation, and a growing WSH population, this funding amount
has never been adjusted. The Community Policing Program currently costs the City $621,297. The City is
subsidizing $159k of this program - this number is increasing each year.
The City requests that the state make this funding permanent and cover the full cost of the program. The
Community Policing Program significantly and positively affects the real and perceived protection of
Western State Hospital and the surrounding communities. Since 2007, the Community Policing Program has
resulted in a 40% reduction in calls for police services from Western State Hospital and a positive
relationship between hospital staff, police, and the community. The continuing success of the program relies
on permanent state funding that fully funds the program.
The Western State Hospital Community Policing Cost of Program
Program provides: (FY 2017-19)
.75 FTE Neighborhood Police Officer (NPO) Current cost of the program: $621,297
1 FTE Investigator
.5 FTE Community Service Officer (CSO) *Previous Funding Amount: $462,000*
In pursuing permanent funding for the Community Policing Program, the city would like to advance
comprehensive legislation that also includes the following:
Clarify Funding Calculation and Source for Basic Police Services at Western State Hospital
The City of Lakewood receives $90k/biennium to provide basic police services to Western State
Hospital. West Pierce Fire also receives funding for basic fire and EMS services. The origin of this
funding is unclear and inconsistent. The City supports simplification of how these funds are
calculated and distributed to the City and West Pierce Fire.
Funding for Basic Police Services at Eastern State Hospital
Eastern State Hospital is located in the City of Medical Lake. Comprehensive legislation should fund
Medical Lake’s provision of basic police services at Eastern State Hospital.
John J. Caulfield, City Manager Mike Zaro, Police Chief Briahna Murray, Vice President
City of Lakewood City of Lakewood Gordon Thomas Honeywell - GA
253.983.7703 253.830.5001 253.310.5477
jcaulfield@cityoflakewood.us mzaro@cityoflakewood.us bmurray@gth-gov.com
006
DRAFT
Proposed Legislation on Permanent Full Funding for
Lakewood & Medical Lake to Provide Services to
Western State Hospital & Eastern State Hospital
AN ACT Relating to community safety at eastern and western state
hospital; and adding a new section to chapter 72.23 RCW.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:
NEW SECTION. Sec 1. The Legislature recognizes that the cities where
eastern and western state hospitals are located provide vital
services to the hospital to maintain patient and community safety. In
particular, the Legislature recognizes that the Community Policing
Program at Western State Hospital facilitates a safer community and
increased communication between the hospital and the community. The
Legislature also recognizes that state hospitals are exempt from
paying property taxes to support these services. Historically, when
funded, these services have been funded through individual budget
provisos directing state funding to the cities. The Legislature
recognizes that this budgeting approach is an unreliable and
inconsistent manner in which to fund public and community safety
services. Therefore, it is the Legislature’s intent to establish a
permanent funding mechanism for these services by directing the
eastern and western state hospitals to enter into contracts with the
cities in which they are located.
NEW SECTION. Sec. 2. A new section is added to chapter 72.23RCW to
read as follows:
(1) Western state hospital shall enter into a contract with the city
in which it is located for the provision of community policing
services at the hospital and in the surrounding areas.
(2) For the purposes of this section, community policing services
includes, but is not limited to, dedicated police personnel whose
specific duties are to provide response, reporting, and investigative
services above and beyond the basic patrol response, to proactively
address public safety issues at the hospital through interaction with
the public about incidents relating to the state hospital, to
investigate complaints of patient and staff-related incidents, and to
conduct training for hospital staff.
(3) Beginning in fiscal biennium 2017-2019, the contract described in
subsection (1) of this section must be no less than $621,297. In
each subsequent fiscal biennium, the hospital shall make adjustments
for inflation.
(4) The city shall not bond the revenue allocated in the contract
outlined in this section.
NEW SECTION. Sec. 3. A new section is added to chapter 72.23 RCW to read
p. 1 007
as follows:
(1) Western state hospital and eastern state hospital shall each enter
into a contract with the city where the respective hospitals are
located to compensate the city for providing public safety services,
including but not limited to 9-1-1 response service and police calls.
(2) Beginning in fiscal biennium 2017-19, each contract described in
subsection (1) of this section shall be equal to eighteen cents per
square foot of the respective state hospital. In each subsequent
fiscal biennium, the hospital shall make adjustments for any changes
in square footage.
(3) The cities may not bond the revenue allocated in the contracts
outlined in this section.
p. 2 008
Local Project Information
Fort Steilacoom Park Improvements
Project Description: Fort Steilacoom Park accommodates over 1 million visitors each year.
Over the years the City has made significant investments and improvements totaling $1.9
million to this State owned property. The combination of past uses, aging infrastructure and
high volumes of use requires that the City invest in improving the utilities and roads at this site.
Lakewood requests $1.45 million to extend water, sewer and electric utilities to building
structures in the park and to improve the main road near the historic barn buildings.
Project Elements Project Description Cost
Utilities Water $150,000
Sewer $430,000
Electricity $100,000
Fiber $20,000
Road Engineering and repaving the main road $650,000
Stormwater Environmental impacts to road and regulatory $100,000
process
Total $1.45 million
009
Local Project Information
Motor Avenue Complete Streets Project
Project Cost: $2.2 Million
John J. Caulfield, City Manager Courtney Casady, Assistant to the City Manager Briahna Murray, Vice President
City of Lakewood City of Lakewood Gordon Thomas Honeywell
253.983.7703 253.983.7839 Government Affairs
jcaulfield@cityoflakewood.us ccasady@cityoflakewood.us 253.310.5477
bmurray@gth-gov.com
Project Description: The City of Lakewood has started the design process for a Complete
Streets Project in the Central Business District on Motor Avenue between Whitman Avenue SW,
and the intersection of Gravelly Lake Drive SW and Bridgeport Way SW. The Motor Avenue
project leads to the creation of a vibrant and welcoming public gathering space with a park-like
atmosphere.
The Motor Avenue project has been
shaped by public input. To date the City
has received input and support from
many residents, business owners, and
other community leaders. The project
has also been featured in a variety of
local media coverage.
In addition to igniting a community, the project has also
sparked new economic development. In anticipation of this
project, the historic Colonial Center adjacent to Motor
Avenue is being partially remodeled, and several bids have
been placed on a long-term vacant property adjacent to the
project site.
Throughout Lakewood’s history, the beautiful theatre and
high end dining located at the Colonial center served as
focal points of the area and provided a central gathering space for the community. Today, some
storefronts in the colonial center are vacant and the theatre is no longer operable. With this
project, the City of Lakewood envisions reestablishing a destination gathering place for its
residents and visitors a by creating an attractive, pedestrian-friendly
place in the city, that fosters mixed use development.
Project Costs
Project Design $250,000
Incidental Construction $182,000
Transportation Improvements $451,300
Utility Construction $351,000
Non-Motorized Improvements $448,800
Market Structure & Landscaping $230,000
Construction Management $180,000
Subtotal $2,093,100
Contingency (5%) $83,000
Total Project Cost $2,176,100
010
WSDOT PROPERTY IN LAKEWOOD:
ECONOMIC BENEFITS OF RELOCATION
Local project information July 2016
Project Overview
The City of Lakewood (City) is in discussion with the Washington State Department of Transportation
(WSDOT) regarding a win-win proposal to relocate a WDOT facility top open up economic development
growth within the City, and to provide WSDOT with a site that strengthens accessibility to their service
area.
The project site is currently being used for industrial purposes, as a WSDOT maintenance site. This is not
the highest and best use for the site. The site’s prime I-5 frontage, heavy daily traffic loads (average daily
traffic count of 282,000 vehicles), and proximity to the Lakewood Sounder Station make it particularly
suited for transit-oriented retail development. Redevelopment would only be possible if the WSDOT
maintenance site is relocated. Potential sites have been identified nearby.
Regional Context Site Location
The Project Site is
located along Pacific
Highway, to the west
side of I-5 south of
the intersection of SR
512. The existing site
is 25.04 acres. Existing
buildings on the site
are 213,965 s.f. with
a floor-to-area ratio
(FAR) of 0.20, which is
below the site’s realistic
potential.
Multiple Benefits of Relocation
Win-Win Benefits for WSDOT and WA State
• One proposed site is 16% larger than the current facility, Initial estimate of annual
though can be located on a smaller footprint.
benefits* with mid-level retail
• New facilities operate more efficiently than older facilities.
Upgrades may result in WSDOT having reduced utility
scenario:
costs and reduced ongoing building costs.
$4.5 - 9.5 million WA State
• WSDOT will be able to design a maintenance facility from
scratch that is optimized for their current operations and $700K - 1.4 million Lakewood
vehicle fleet. They can “right size” the building.
Benefits for the Community of Lakewood $350 - 800K Pierce Transit
• Supports city’s economic development goals.
• Compliments existing retail.
$175 - 275K Pierce County
Pierce County
• Reduce unemployment by providing local employment $25,000 Library
opportunities.
Benefits for Other Jurisdictions $10,000 Port of Tacoma
• Increases retail sales tax and property tax revenues for (*Annual revenue estimates include sales tax,
multiple jurisdicitons. property tax, State B&O tax, and utlity tax.)
011
Analysis Completed
1. Explored costs and potential sites for Cost Estimate to Relocate WSDOT Facility
WSDOT relocation Construction costs $13.1 million
In 2014, the City studied and assessed the potential Site mitigation $1.5 million
costs associated with relocation. Significant costs Consultation services $821,000
include current site environmental clean-up and Project management $530,000
demolition, new site acquisition, and new facility Equipment costs $236,000
construction. Total Costs $16.2 million
2. Examined different redevelopment
Comparable Retail Examples
scenarios
In 2015, the City studied fiscal impacts and costs
for different development scenarios to the City and
other public agencies. Lakewood hopes to bring in an
attractive, large anchor retail store to the site, as well as
some restaurants or other small retail which would get
drivers off the freeway and into Lakewood.
Scenario 1: High-End Retail. Development similar to the Mid-level retail anchor examples.
Tukwila Nordstrom Rack and Kohl’s retail site.
Scenario 2: Mid-Level Retail. This scenario was modeled
on the Marysville Kohl’s Retail Mix, anchored by a Kohl’s
Department Store and a WinCo Grocery. Other retailers
include a Ross Dress for Less.
Scenario 3: Outlet with Grocery. A similar example is the
North Bend Outlet Mall with a significant collection of outlet
retail stores.
Scenario 4: Outlet Mall. This scenario was modeled on the
Centralia Outlet Mall, which has a smaller collection of outlet Outlet mall and traditional shopping mall.
retail stores.
Steps Forward
Determine WSDOT capactiy needs and relocate the maintenance facility.
Lakewood has determined a few potential sites for the relocation of the WSDOT maintenance facility.
A capacity analysis should also be conducted to determine WSDOT’s needs prior to relocating the
maintenance facility.
Determine the land assembly process.
The City will begin talking with property owners at the current site, as the proposal would necessitate
that WSDOT as well as multiple other owners sell their land to a developer. The City will begin
conversations to determine owners’ willingness to sell.
Contact
For more information about the project, please contact:
John J. Caulfield, City Manager Briahna Murray, Vice President
City of Lakewood Gordon Thomas Honeywell Government Affairs
253-983-7703 jcaulfield@cityoflakewood.us 253-310-5477 bmurray@gth-gov.com 012
CITY OF LAKEWOOD
LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL
ADOPTED BY CITY COUNCIL ON OCTOBER XX, 2016
___________________________________________________________________________
COMMUNITY, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, TRANSPORTATION,
AND INFRASTRUCTURE
I-5 JBLM Corridor
The I-5 JBLM corridor is fully funded in the transportation revenue package adopted by the Legislature.
The City is currently working with WSDOT to ensure timely progress of the project. The City will
continue to advocate for any appropriations or policy changes needed to advance the project in the best
interests of our community and region.
Economic Development Tools
The City supports programs that may be developed to assist local governments in improvement of
neighborhood residential and commercial area rehabilitation, through tax incentives, grants, loans and
other programs. The City also supports legislation that provides economic development tools that the City
may use if it so chooses. This legislation includes, but is not limited to: the multi-family housing tax
incentive, tax increment financing, lodging tax, the Main Street Act (a series of small tax incentives for
neighborhood business districts), complete streets grant program, community facility financing, shared
state revenue for construction of convention and special event centers, additional shared state revenue for
urban renewal and other public facility improvements, and innovative approaches to property tax
assessment that reduces the current incentive to allow property to remain blighted.
Annexation
The City believes that annexation laws should encourage the logical development and expansion of the
City to provide for a healthy and growing local economy and efficient services. The law should also
facilitate and ease the annexation of unincorporated islands adjacent to City limits. The City supports
legislation that will further modify state annexation laws to reduce the administrative process of
annexation and further encourage and incentivize annexation of existing unincorporated islands.
Boundary Review Board
Boundary Review Boards are a quasi-judicial administrative body empowered to make decisions on such
issues as incorporations, annexations, extensions of utilities, etc. by cities, towns, and special purpose
districts. These Boards can approve, deny, or modify a proposal. Decisions are appealable to the Pierce
County Superior Court. Because most issues are appealed to the Superior Court the City of Lakewood
believes the Boundary Review Boards are duplicative and supports legislation that results in their
elimination.
Local Authority for Land Use & Planning
Local governments must maintain final decision making authority on local zoning, land use, and
planning, including local zoning and regulation of house-banked card rooms, homeless shelters, mobile
home parks and other businesses. Specifically, the City opposes any effort by either the State Legislature
or Congress to preempt local land use or taxation authority.
Infrastructure Funding
Local agencies, including the City of Lakewood, lack resources for infrastructure funding. As a result,
city roads remain in disrepair; general fund dollars are taken from other important services to repair roads;
or a combination thereof. Given that the Public Works Assistance Account has been discontinued, the city
supports the state developing new infrastructure funding programs that are viable in the current political
climate.
1
013
CITY OF LAKEWOOD
LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL
ADOPTED BY CITY COUNCIL ON OCTOBER XX, 2016
___________________________________________________________________________
Parks & Recreation
The City of Lakewood is in need of state assistance to improve, maintain and expand its local park system
and the open space areas of the City. The City supports ongoing funding for the Washington Wildlife and
Recreation Program (WWRP) and the Youth Athletic Fund (YAF).
If the WWRP program is funded at the $85 million level, the City will receive $600,000 for the Harry
Todd Waterfront Improvement Project. An Aquatic Lands Enhancement Account (ALEA) grant for Harry
Todd Park improvements in the amount of $500,000 is also pending legislative approval.
If the YAF fund is fully funded at $12 million, the City will have the chance to compete for these funds in
a competitive grant process. The grant allows for renovation of existing facilities.
Limiting Additional Freight on Point Defiance Bypass (Lakeview Rail Line)
The City opposes increased freight traffic along this corridor that is above and beyond the activity already
in place and does not have a destination point within Lakewood. With the opening of the Point Defiance
Bypass project in support of AMTRAK passenger rail coupled with increasing demands on freight rail,
there is concern that the Point Defiance Bypass project could eventually lead to carrying increased freight
traffic in addition to new passenger rail.
FINANCE
State-Shared Revenues
Lakewood supports maintaining funding for state-shared revenues. Additionally, the City opposes any
cuts to state-funded programs that would negatively impact the city’s ability to deliver services to its
citizens.
Fiscal Home Rule (alternative to State-Shared Revenues)
The City recognizes that it is increasingly difficult for the state to continue its historic role of providing
state-shared revenues to the local level. The City will evaluate fiscal home rule proposals as they are
introduced.
General Fund Revenue
The City supports legislation that will increase, expand, or favorably restructure its revenue-raising
ability. In consideration of the continued growth in demand for services that exceed revenue growth and
inflation, the City supports the following revenue options:
Give local governments increased local option flexibility in all areas of taxing authority.
Eliminate remaining non-supplanting language and restrictions on use of certain revenues in local
option tax authority. This language excessively limits City Council discretion regarding funding
priorities.
City Financial Liability for Indigent Defense
The City supports state funding for Indigent Defense in order to ensure consistent and adequate funding
throughout the State. Requiring cities to bear the cost of this state mandate is inequitable.
Unfunded Mandates & Other State & Federal Budget Impacts
Mandates from the Federal and State governments are rarely accompanied with adequate new revenues or
taxing authority, but instead force the City to reduce funding levels for other services. The City opposes
efforts by the State Legislature to balance budgets by shifting responsibilities to cities.
2
014
CITY OF LAKEWOOD
LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL
ADOPTED BY CITY COUNCIL ON OCTOBER XX, 2016
___________________________________________________________________________
PUBLIC SAFETY
Authority to Appoint Municipal Court Judges
The City supports cities’ ability to appoint a municipal court judge and to maintain courts and supports
further technical and financial assistance for the administration of municipal courts.
Traffic Enforcement Cameras
The Legislature has authorized local government to use traffic enforcement cameras in limited situations,
including red light enforcement at certain intersections and speed control in school zones. Traffic
enforcement cameras have proven to be a success in reducing instances of speeding and violation of
traffic signals. The City supports the use of traffic enforcement cameras. The City also supports
legislation allowing images from traffic enforcement cameras to be used by law enforcement in criminal
cases if there is probable cause.
Police Body Cameras
Advancements in technology now enable law enforcement agencies to equip their police officers with
body-worn cameras. However, current state laws around public disclosure impede the use of this
technology. The City supports legislation that removes barriers to the use of police body cameras.
Increased & Permanent Funding for the Western State Hospital Community Policing Program
Since 2007 the City has operated a highly effective neighborhood policing team to respond to hundreds of
calls for police service at Western State Hospital. The City of Lakewood requests permanent funding for
this program at a level that covers the full cost of the program.
City Financial Liability for Offender Medical Costs
The City supports proposals to change the current practice of charging cities for inmate medical costs.
The concern is that private insurance companies are refusing to cover treatment for an injury that occurred
during the commission of a crime. The practice of charging cities for the medical cost of inmates is a
subsidy for jails, hospitals, Medicaid and insurers using tax money intended for local revenue.
Full Funding of the Basic Law Enforcement Academy (BLEA)
The City supports full funding of the Basic Law Enforcement Academy which is the sole training
program for police departments across the state. With an increasing number of law enforcement officers
retiring, it is imperative this program receive adequate funding to provide ample training slots for new
hires. The current wait for a training class is more than six months, which results in jurisdictions paying
the salaries of officers who cannot begin work.
Jail & Court Costs
The City supports legislative proposals that reduce jail and court costs, and maintain the City’s flexibility
in providing jail and court services. The City supports additional funding for local grants through the
Office of Public Defense, and clarifying local authority to set standards for public defenders. The City
also supports maintaining the flexibility to select the most appropriate manner in which to provide jail
services.
Release of Offenders to County of Origin
The City supported legislation that expanded Department of Correction’s “county of origin” policy that
sends offenders back to their county of origin upon release, to also include offenders released from the
Special Commitment Center operated by the Department of Social and Health Services. The City will
continue to monitor the effectiveness of the expansion of this policy.
3
015
CITY OF LAKEWOOD
LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL
ADOPTED BY CITY COUNCIL ON OCTOBER XX, 2016
___________________________________________________________________________
GENERAL GOVERNMENT
McCleary Decision
The City encourages the state to satisfy the McCleary Supreme Court decision, and develop a plan on
how to fully fund education by 2018. In doing so, the City requests that the Legislature recognize quality
schools also need to be located in quality communities. As such, fully funding education should not be
done at the expense of funding allocated to local governments.
Public Records & Open Meetings
The City respects the right of the public to have access to legitimate public records and documents. The
City believes its ability to recover the costs of searching for, gathering and reviewing requested
documents is also in the public’s interest. The City supports reasonable reforms to the public records act.
The City opposes requiring the recording of executive sessions or other restrictions on legitimate uses of
executive sessions.
HOUSING
Adult Family Homes (AFHs)
The City supports legislation that harmonizes Adult Family Homes to the degree possible with the
residential zoning which currently allows them. These facilities should maintain numbers of occupants
consistent with their residential setting and these facilities should be dispersed to prevent unintended de
facto “social services zones” when it is in the best interest of both the service provider and the City to
preserve the residential nature of the City’s neighborhoods. The City supports density limitations to this
use in residential zones with regard to both numbers of occupants per facility and number of facilities per
zone.
Regulating Enhanced Service Facilities (ESFs)
The City encourages the state to recognize ESFs as an institutional use and remove language which
allows an Adult Family Home (AFH) to convert to this use. The population that qualifies for residence in
an ESF would otherwise be institutionalized and is not appropriate for residential zones. Language that
allows AFH to convert to ESF suggests that these distinctly different types of housing are comparable
when they serve contradictory populations, AFH serving predominantly vulnerable individuals and ESF
serving almost exclusively individuals who present a threat. The City supports legislation that keeps
institutional populations in zones which accommodate commercial or industrial uses.
Quality Affordable Housing
The City supports enhancement of the provision of much needed human service programs to address
issues that drive increased homelessness and public safety costs. The City supports legislation that
incentivizes developers to build affordable housing. The City supports a $200M investment in the
Housing Trust Fund. The Homelessness Housing and Assistance Act provides funding to homeless
services (shelters, rapid rehousing, move-in assistance etc.) through a document recording fee. Thirty
dollars of the fifty-eight dollar fee collected is scheduled to sunset in 2019. The City supports retaining
the document recording fee.
Additionally, the City supports legislation to stop all predatory home lending practices with particular
attention to the common predatory lending practices in mobile home ownership. The City supports
enforcement of state law to ensure all home renting practices are in compliance with existing regulations.
4
016
CITY OF LAKEWOOD
LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL
ADOPTED BY CITY COUNCIL ON OCTOBER XX, 2016
___________________________________________________________________________
MILITARY AFFAIRS
South Sound Military & Communities Partnership (SSMCP) & Joint Base Lewis McChord
The City is a strong partner with Joint Base Lewis McChord (JBLM) and a founding member of the
South Sound Military Communities Partnership (SSMCP). JBLM is an employment hub for the City of
Lakewood, and Lakewood has the 3rd largest city population of active duty service members in the greater
Pierce and Thurston Counties region.
SSMCP’s mission is to foster communication, understanding and mutual benefit by serving as the most
effective point of coordination for resolution of those issues which transcend the specific interests of the
military and civilian communities of the South Sound region. Its membership includes Pierce and
Thurston County local governments, JBLM and the WA Military Department, and economic
development, social services, health care, educational, transportation, and military support organizations.
Current SSMCP priorities include expanding missions at JBLM and thus spurring local economic
development off base; workforce transition; active duty, military family and veteran awareness of health
care and social service availability; and increasing state level support of military presence in Washington.
The City of Lakewood supports the ongoing efforts of SSMCP and policy decisions that assist JBLM and
its mission. The City also believes in a strong commitment from the State in support of military affairs,
such as maintaining the Governor’s Subcabinet on Military Downsizing; strengthening financial,
legislative and political support for the military presence in Washington in anticipation of future force
restructuring or defense contract reductions due to sequestration, Department of Defense budget
reductions, and/or base realignment and closure (BRAC) rounds; continuing to support the Washington
Military Alliance (WMA), and providing financial assistance for local military advocacy agencies such
as Forward Fairchild, the Puget Sound Naval Bases Association, Rally Point 6, and SSMCP.
SSMCP Legislative Agenda
Resolve Encroachment in the JBLM North Clear Zone (NCZ)
Fund Transportation Blueprint for South Puget Sound
Strengthen State Involvement in Military Affairs
Direct Compliance with the REAL ID Act
5
017
SSMCP 2017
Providing unique regional leadership to bridge
State Legislative Agenda
military and civilian communities for mutual benefit
- DRAFT -
Resolve Encroachment in the JBLM North Clear Zone (NCZ)
• SSMCP seeks funding to acquire and relocate businesses in the JBLM NCZ.
• Civilian activity within NCZ property presents a public safety issue for military
operations and civilians alike. Encroachment within the NCZ contributed to JBLM
receiving point deductions in the 2005 Base Realignment & Closure (BRAC)
evaluation process.
Fund Transportation Blueprint for Sound Puget Sound
• Provide $5M in State funding to study the long-term need to increase I-5 capacity
between Mounts Road (exit 116) to Tumwater (exit 99).
• Develop a plan to provide incremental highway improvements from Thurston
County to JBLM.
• This is a key transportation corridor that is critical to the quality of life and
movement of goods throughout Thurston County and beyond. Relieving congestion
will promote economic prosperity in the region.
• Support continued local transportation infrastructure investments that improve freight
mobility and systems reliability for workers.
Strengthen State Involvement in Military Affairs
• SSMCP believes in a strong commitment from the State in support of military affairs,
such as:
- recognizing the influence and effects military installations have on nearby local
communities and local government operations, planning and expenditures;
- furthering the work begun by the Governor’s Subcabinet on Military
Downsizing to better assist active duty and veterans and their families transition to the
civilian workforce;
- continuing to support the Washington Military Alliance (WMA); recognizing
and protecting the economic benefit realized in the State by government and the private sector due to our
military’s presence;
- strengthening financial, legislative and political support for military presence in anticipation of future
force restructuring or defense contract reductions due to sequestration, Department of Defense budget
reductions, and/or base realignment and closure (BRAC) rounds; and
- providing financial assistance for local military advocacy agencies such as Forward Fairchild, the
Puget Sound Naval Bases Association, RP/6, and SSMCP.
• Recognize JBLM as a Regional Center.
Direct Compliance with the REAL ID Act
• Encourage Washington State Department of Licensing compliance with DHS REAL ID Act requirements
- The Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification
cards and prohibits Federal agencies from accepting for official purposes licenses and identification
cards from states that do not meet these standards.
SSMCP
6000 Main St. SW, Lakewood, WA 98499
Phone: 253.983.7772 | 253.983.7774
E-mail: badamson@cityoflakewood.us
sluna@cityofakewood.us
ssmcp.org
018
2015 SSMCP Members MISSION
City of Lakewood
City of Lacey
To foster effective
City of DuPont Providing unique regional communication,
City of Olympia leadership to bridge military understanding, and
Town of Steilacoom
City of Tacoma
and civilian communities for mutual benefit by
mutual benefit
City of Tumwater serving as the most
City of University Place ssmcp.org effective point of
City of Yelm
Pierce County
coordination for
Thurston County resolution of those
Nisqually Indian Tribe issues which transcend
Thurston Regional Planning
Council
the specific interests of
Joint Base Lewis-McChord SSMCP the military and
Washington Military Core Goals civilian communities of
Department
Washington Department of
the South Sound
- Formalize New Methods region.
Transportation
of Regional Collaboration
Tacoma-Pierce County
Chamber of Commerce
Tacoma-Pierce County
- Improve Regional VISION
Mobility The SSMCP is an
Health Department
United Way of Pierce County - Improve Access to innovative and flexible
Clover Park School District
Franklin Pierce School
Information partnership uniquely
District positioned to provide
- Promote JBLM as a
Tacoma Pierce County Center of Regional regional leadership to
Association of Realtors
WorkForce Central
Economic Significance bridge military and
Your name here! civilian communities.
- Improve Access to
Existing Services for
Collaborative Partners
Emergency Services
Active Duty Service -
Economic Development Boards Members and Veterans
School Districts
Public and Private Utilities
Public Libraries
- Improve Support for
Convention Visitor Bureaus Military Families
Parks Districts
Health Systems
Ports
Colleges & Universities
Wildlife & Environmental Advocates
Chambers of Commerce
Workforce Development Organizations
Social Service Organizations
SSMCP
Veterans Service Organizations 6000 Main St. SW
Charitable Organizations Lakewood, WA 98499
Phone: 253.983.7772 | 253.983.7774
E-mail: badamson@cityoflakewood.us
019
ssmcp.org
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
North Clear Zone (NCZ) – Joint Base Lewis McChord (JBLM)
Acreage Parcels
Total 65 66
Purchased by Pierce County 6.6 32
Purchased by U.S. Government 5.4 2
Subtotal 12 34
Remaining 53 32
Estimated Value for Acquisition and
$43 million to $50 million
Business Relocation
SSMCP is seeking funding to acquire and relocate the businesses within the JBLM North Clear Zone.
Clear Zones (CZ) and Accident Potential Zones (APZs) are areas where the potential for aircraft accidents has been
identified through the Air Installation Compatible Use Zone (AICUZ) program. The CZ is a 3,000 by 3,000 foot zone at
the end of the runway where there is the highest statistical possibility of aircraft accidents. Any existing or future
development in the CZ is of concern. Development in the CZ increases the likelihood of flight obstructions such as
physical structures, smoke, and glare, and challenges the military’s ability to safely carry out missions. Development
should be prohibited in this zone. Any use other than airfield infrastructure (e.g., approach lighting) is incompatible in the
CZ. McChord Air Field’s NCZ is unique, being valuable industrial land, not farmland. With no alternative uses, the
property’s value is in its development potential. This increases the cost and difficulty of acquiring Clear Zone properties.
McChord Field (formerly McChord Air Force Base) contributes millions of dollars to the local economy annually and the
Department of Defense (DoD) is the largest employer in Pierce County. Both Pierce County and Lakewood have long
been aware of the threat posed to military operational missions by physical encroachment in the NCZ. Existing
encroachment has already required McChord to maintain a planning option of extending the base runway 5,000 feet to the
south in order to accommodate potential mission changes that might arise in the future. To the DoD, the only land use
with the NCZ that is deemed compatible is agriculture (except livestock). If financial means were made available, the
federal government has clear authority to condemn land necessary for public purposes under 28 USC 1358. Incompatible
development in the NCZ has rapidly occurred within the last 20 years. During the BRAC 2005 evaluation, McChord Field
was given a lower military value due to encroachment.
020
CITY OF LAKEWOOD LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL:
REFERENCE
City Financial Liability for Indigent Defense
Indigent Defense 2014 2015 2016 (budgeted) 2017 (budgeted) 2018 (budgeted)
$463,501 $457,636 $550,000 $598,800 $608,800
Jail Services 2014 2015 2016 (budgeted) 2017 (budgeted) 2018 (budgeted)
$693,896 $700,814 $624,240 $624,240 $624,240
Prosecution Services 2014 2015 2016 (budgeted) 2017 (budgeted) 2018 (budgeted)
N/A $101,210 $130,000 $130,000 $130,000
Full Funding of the Basic Law Enforcement Academy (BLEA)
BLEA sessions offered per year 20
Price per BLEA attendee $3,500
Lakewood BLEA 2017 2018 2019 2020
budget estimate 4 recruits 4 recruits 4 recruits 4 recruits
$14,000 $14,000 $14,000 $14,000
021
CITY OF LAKEWOOD
PIERCE COUNTY LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL
ADOPTED BY CITY COUNCIL ON OCTOBER XX, 2016
___________________________________________________________________________
Annexations:
Arrowhead/Partridge Glenn
Annexation has been attempted three times, the first two times to Steilacoom (1995 and 1996) and the
third time to Lakewood (1997). All three ballot measures failed by a narrow margin (with the number of
“yes” votes declining each time). The Arrowhead/Partridge Glenn area remains unincorporated. It has
been nearly twenty years since the last annexation attempt was made. The Town of Steilacoom, West
Pierce Fire and Rescue, and Pierce County are not opposed to Lakewood annexing this area. Lakewood
would consider annexing the area assuming that the known infrastructure issues are addressed by Pierce
County and have the support of its residents.
Previous Annexation Votes
Election Date Measure Outcome
February 7, 1995 Annex to Steilacoom Y 49.84% / N 50.16%
September 17, 1996 Annex to Steilacoom Y 47.15% / N 52.85%
September 16, 1997 Annex to Lakewood Y 46.36% / N 53.64%
Source: Pierce Co. Elections
Joint Base Lewis McChord (JBLM)
The Lakewood Urban Growth Areas (UGA) includes the cantonment areas of JBLM. For more than a
decade, JBLM has significantly developed the land within the cantonment area. If Pierce County is
interested in having this area to be annexed by Lakewood, the City would be interested in discussing
possible steps towards annexation to include involvement and participation by JBLM and the Department
of Defense (DoD).
Camp Murray
Both Lakewood and Camp Murray have shared interests. Primary ingress/egress into Camp Murray and
the State Emergency Management Division is through Lakewood. Road improvements have been made to
improve access into Camp Murray. Both the City and Camp Murray are located on the shores of
American Lake. A boat launch and an enclosed boat storage facility housing fire district and police boats
straddle current boundaries. If Pierce County is interested in having this area to be annexed by Lakewood,
the City would be interested in discussing possible steps towards annexation to include involvement and
participation by Camp Murray.
Annexation Area Demographics
UGA Land Size Population Housing Units Other Amenities
Arrowhead/Partridge 282 Acres 2,444 924 15 businesses
Glenn
JBLM 91,000 Acres 58,133 4,901 6 elementary schools, 278 miles
of streets
Camp Murray 295 Acres 1,000 0 Location of Washington State
employees Emergency Operations Center
1
022
CITY OF LAKEWOOD
PIERCE COUNTY LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL
ADOPTED BY CITY COUNCIL ON OCTOBER XX, 2016
___________________________________________________________________________
Sewers
The City will continue its efforts to work with Pierce County to establish a more streamlined permitting
process. Economic development is a high priority for the City and the sewer system permitting process is
a factor that businesses and residents take into consideration when locating in Lakewood. We strive to
continue the relationship with Pierce County in establishing a more efficient and effective process that
both improves economic development and has a minimal impact on sewer operations.
Air Corridor Population
Lakewood’s population allocation should reflect the constraints on the City imposed by the Air Corridor.
Population growth estimates already constrain the City and places an unobtainable population estimate of
72,000 residents by 2030. The permanent displacement of 4,185 residents would place a great deal of
constraint on population growth in the City. The City hopes to accomplish the following:
Maintain the 72,000 population allocation now and into the future.
During the next round of countywide population allocations, petition the Pierce County Growth
Management Coordinating Committee (GMCC), the Pierce County Regional Council (PCRC),
and the Pierce County Council to reduce Lakewood’s population allocation. The net effect of
such action would mean that the county or other cities would have to make-up the difference. It
may also mean that in the future, Lakewood’s transportation funding could be restricted.
Seek state legislative action and pursue an exemption at the state level.
Before the next round of population allocations, meet with OFM; request that Lakewood’s
population numbers be adjusted.
Flood Control Zone District (FCZD)
The first FCZD was established in Pierce County in 2010 and included the City of Lakewood. The City,
from the start, expressed concern about the equity of having the City of Lakewood, which has
substantially lower risk of flood impact than other parts of the County, pay at the same rate as other
communities which are at greater impact. The City was also concerned with the potential of the
governing board to impose the maximum rate allowable. In 2011 the FCZD was disbanded by a vote of
the Pierce County Council but was later reestablished by the Pierce County Council in 2012. In 2013 the
maximum allowable rate was $.25 and $.10 was the authorized rate. The City supports a flood control
zone district based on potential for flood damage rather than the current countywide boundaries. The City
further supports rates that better reflect potential for damage from flooding, which is not equal across the
County.
2
023
2017
City Priorities
Legislative Session
In order for Washington State to be its best and attract the best, our 281 cities and towns must be strong.
• Cities are where more than 4.6 million people call home, and this number is growing quickly.
• Cities are where the majority of the state’s revenues are generated, including $1.3 billion in property taxes, and $7.5
billion in sales tax.
• Cities contain the state’s economic engines, where 69% of job-generating businesses are located.
The 2017 legislative session will be lengthy and difficult. In light of competition for the state’s limited
resources, this session could be a game changer for cities and communities around the state. In order to help
solve our shared critical challenges and maintain Washington’s vibrant communities, the Legislature must:
Update the Public Records Act so cities can Respect city local authority with regards to
continue to provide open and transparent revenue, taxes, licensing, and home rule;
government services to Washington city officials are elected and must have the
residents. authority to solve local challenges.
Support and enhance actions to increase Maintain the city-state partnership for
affordable housing, decrease homelessness, shared revenues to fund key services.
and improve a strained mental and
behavioral health system.
Provide adequate and sustainable funding
to maintain high-quality statewide training
Revitalize key infrastructure assistance for law enforcement personnel.
programs to support job creation, our health
and safety, economic vitality, and quality of
life. Maintain funding for the Municipal Research
and Services Center (MRSC) to provide vital
support for local government performance.
Founded in 1933, the Association of Washington Cities (AWC) is a private, nonprofit, nonpartisan corporation that represents
Washington’s cities and towns before the state legislature, the state executive branch and with regulatory agencies. Membership
is voluntary. However, AWC consistently maintains 100% participation from Washington’s 281 cities and towns.
Dave Williams
Contact: Director of Government Relations
davew@awcnet.org • 360.753.4137
Association of Washington Cities • 1076 Franklin St SE, Olympia, WA 98501 • 1.800.562.8981 • awcnet.org 10/03/16 024
JBLM North Clear Zone (NCZ) City of Lakewood
Federal Priorities
Elected Officials
Don Anderson
Status of North Clear Zone (NCZ) Properties Mayor
Acreage Parcels Jason Whalen Mary Moss
Total 65 66 Deputy Mayor Councilmember
Purchased by Pierce County 6.6 32
Purchased by U.S. Government 5.4 2 Michael Brandstetter Marie Barth
Subtotal 12 34 Councilmember Councilmember
Remaining 53 32
Estimated Value for Acquisition Paul Bocchi John Simpson
$43 million to $50 million Councilmember Councilmember
and Business Relocation
CONTACT INFORMATION
Lakewood Demographics JBLM in the Community
• Population 58,800 • Service Members 40,976 John J. Caulfield
Jake Johnston
City Manager
• Median Age 37.2 years • Family Members 47,303
•
•
Median Household Income
Average Household Income
$43,362
$60,497
•
•
Civilian Employees
Military Retirees
17,521
32,064
www.CityofLakewood.us 2400 NW 80th St., # 191
6000 Main Street SW
• Average Family Income $77,749 Seattle, WA 98117
Lakewood WA 98499
• Average Income-Married Couples $94,398 jake@johnstongr.com
jcaulfield@cityoflakewood.us
• Total Housing Units 27,066 (206) 240-3133
(253) 983-7703
025
City of Lakewood Federal Priorities (Updated October 2016)
1 TRANSPORTATION
A COMMUTE ACT. The City endorses the COMMUTE Act introduced by Rep. Denny Heck. The proposal would
prioritize funding for transportation projects serving military installations and would be a tremendous benefit to
installations like Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) that are situation in dense urban areas.
B TIGER. The City supports permanent authorization of the TIGER program.
C AMTRAK Rail Station in Lakewood/JBLM. The City requests that a Station Assessment Study be
completed by AMTRAK to assess the viability of a station in Lakewood serving Pierce County and JBLM. This
request is supported by Lakewood and JBLM.
The City opposes any efforts to expand freight rail on the Point Defiance Bypass rail line.
D Additional Federal Transportation Policies. The City supports efforts to designate more federal funding
for medium-sized cities in high growth areas. Specifically, the City endorses:
• Efforts at the federal level to create designated funding for medium cities such as the Booker/Wecker proposal in
the Senate and the TIGER-GUBS and ISTA proposals in the House.
• The addition of Transit-Oriented Development projects within the TIFIA loan program.
CDBG • A restoration of TIFIA loan authority equal to what was included in the MAP-21 Act.
Lighting
1C
2 COMMUNITY & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
CDBG CDBG
LASA
Lighting
A COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG). The City supports increasing CDBG
CDBG funding, which has dropped from $943,000 in 2001 to $467,050 in 2016. The City has developed a white paper on
Lighting
this issue and urges the delegation to support these critical funds.
Lakewood Industrial
Park (LIP)
B HOME Program. The City supports increasing HOME funding, which has dropped from a high of $513,009 in
2001 to $208,473 in 2016. The City has used HOME funds to fix up nearly 150 homes at a cost of almost $6 million
since 2001.
C OFFICE OF ECONOMIC ADJUSTMENT (OEA) Funding. The City, in partnership with SSMCP,
supports increased funding for the OEA that helps communities impacted by military facilities plan for force reductions
CDBG Sounder and expansion.
3 MILITARY & DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Road Improvement
Station
4
• BASE REALIGNMENT & CLOSURE (BRAC). The City supports a BRAC round to focus limited federal
1A funding to meet the Pentagon’s installation needs. Efforts at the federal level to create designated funding for medium
cities such as the Booker/Wecker proposal in the Senate and the TIGER-GUBS and ISTA proposals in the House.
1C • Joint bases should be evaluated as singular installations under the BRAC process
• OEA FUNDING. The City supports increased funding for the OEA that helps communities impacted by
CDBG military facilities plan for force reductions and expansions.
Road Improvement
4 JBLM NORTH CLEAR ZONE (NCZ)
1C The Army owns and operates Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM), including the facilities associated with the former
McChord Air Force Base now under joint base structure. The Air Force has a mandate to acquire property within the
North Clear Zone (3,000 feet by 3,000 feet), which includes manufacturing and light industrial properties in the City.
Both the Army and Air Force acknowledge the need to acquire this land but lack the funding to do so.
The City is a willing partner to fulfill the mandate and urges the congressional delegation to support future budget
CDBG
Habitat requests from the Department of Defense to facilitate this land acquisition. This encroachment issue is one of the
largest concerns facing JBLM in a future BRAC round and the City is committed to using all of its local authority to
CDBG
Sewer partner with SSMCP, the County, State and Military to mitigate the encroachment concerns.
CDBG
Habitat
1C 5 GREEN STORMWATER INITIATIVES
Future The City supports the Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) efforts endorsed by the Puget Sound Partnership and
Sounder/ being led by Reps. Kilmer and Heck. The efforts include:
AMTRAK
• Adding stormwater management criteria to federal infrastructure grant program.
• Developing a tax incentive program for private stormwater management investments.
• Creating new funding opportunities for culvert replacement and improvements focused on improving water
quality in Puget Sound.
026
TO: Mayor and City Councilmembers
FROM: Adam Lincoln, Assistant to the City Manager & Heidi Ann Wachter, City Attorney
THROUGH: John J. Caulfield, City Manager
DATE: October 15, 2016
SUBJECT: Federal Funding Opportunities
As with any legislative agenda, progress is achieved through consistent effort over time. Since 2013, the City has
been active in lobbying at the federal level. In 2017, the City continues to work with the Washington State federal
delegation to ensure that Lakewood priorities are addressed. Below are the proposed priorities that should be
addressed as Lakewood continues its efforts to ensure that federal dollars are effectively spent within our City. It
should be noted that federal funding is administered at the local level, which means that in addition to maintaining
effective relations with our federal legislators, we must also be aware of and working with those local agencies
responsible for the administration of funds we hope to receive.
Potential Federal Funding Opportunities
Trail/Non-Motorized Vehicle Projects:
The two avenues for securing funding specific to non-motorized projects is through WSDOT or PSRC. PSRC is the
largest resource for transportation funding. One unique aspect to PSRC funding is in the form of pass back funding.
When one of the PSRC funded projects comes in under budget, the extra funding is redistributed to other projects
that scored well for funding. One caveat with regard to pass back funding is that PSRC board members are historically
the most successful at accessing the additional funding. It would be beneficial for the City to explore the potential for
a council member to attempt to join the PSRC board.
Parks and Open Space:
Funding for parks and open space is very limited. Federal resources for parks and open space tend to be limited to
wetland restoration projects and flood control projects. Funding for flood control includes stormwater projects,
wetland habitat restoration, FEMA pre-disaster projects, and land acquisition.
Emergency Management:
There are two areas of funding that help fund emergency management programs. The first is the Community Oriented
Policing Services (COPS) Program. This program helps fund a portion of police officer salaries for their first few
years of service and the grant amount gradually diminishes over a three to five year window, placing the cost
increasingly on the police department. This is a very well respected program and one that the Lakewood Police
Department are currently looking into applying for in spring of 2017. The second program is called Byrne Grants and
was distributed by the Department of Justice. The funding went towards equipment and training, but the funding is
mostly depleted now.
Grant Reporting and Audit Bureaucracy:
The time and cost of managing federal grants and loans is a burden, however the message to the federal delegation is
not one that garners empathy. The cost and time commitment is directly connected to the size of the funding. The
amount of time and effort for reporting on federal grants should be a consideration as the City applies for federal
funds but it likely will not be a cost that dissuades the City from attempting to obtain such funds.
Moreover, the grant administration infrastructure is already funded for key programs like CDBG and HOME. Because
of this, any increase in discretionary funding into these programs can be pushed into the community directly without
dilution.
027
Get email alerts for Lakewood
A daily email when new agendas and minutes are posted.