City Council

LAKEWOOD CITY COUNCIL JOINT CITY COUNCIL AND STATE LEGISLATORS SPECIAL MEETING AGENDA Tuesday, November 29, 2022 6:00 P.M. City of Lakewood Council Chambers 6000 Main Street SW Lakewood, WA 98499 Residents can virtually attend City Council meetings by watching them live on the city’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/cityoflakewoodwa Those who do not have access to YouTube can participate via Zoom by either visiting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86872632373 or calling by telephone: Dial +1(253) 215- 8782 and enter participant ID: 868 7263 2373. Page No. CALL TO ORDER ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION (2) 1. Review of the 2023 State Legislative Agenda and Legislative Policy Manual. ADJOURNMENT Persons requesting special accommodations or language interpreters should contact the City Clerk, 253-983-7705, 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  Return to Agenda CIT Y OF L A K E W O O D, W ASHINGTON 2023-2024 State Legislative Agenda The City looks forward to continuing its partnership with its legislative delegation to improve the overall quality of life for everyone that calls Lakewood home. Partnership with Nisqually Indian Tribe on Fort Steilacoom Park Improvements: The City of Lakewood and the Nisqually Indian Tribe are partnering to develop interpretive installations on public lands within the City. These installations feature the unique culture and history of the Nisqually Indian Tribe. The pilot project at Fort Steilacoom Park will add signage, art, and interpretive information throughout the park, providing an introduction to the Nisqually people, Chief Leschi’s legacy and exposure to the Lushootseed language. The total project cost is $300,000, with the City committing $50,000. The City, in partnership with the Nisqually Indian Tribe, is requesting $250,000 to fully fund the historical and cultural enrichments at Fort Steilacoom Park. LASA Affordable Housing Project: Living Access Support Alliance (LASA) provides emergency housing, rapid rehousing and transitional housing in Lakewood, in addition to case management, and a range of other services to prevent homelessness. LASA is planning to construct roughly 25 affordable low- income housing units in Lakewood. LASA is pursuing funding from city, county, state and philanthropic sources with an anticipated groundbreaking in 2024. Pierce County has committed $3.5 million and the City is seeking $2.5 million in federal funding. The City is also considering an allocation of funds to this project. On behalf of LASA, the City requests $500,000 from the capital budget for this project. Public Safety: The City supports a commonsense and meaningful approach to public safety policies that protect lives and property and do not erode trust in government. Examples include revisiting the crime of possession of a controlled substance, revisiting restrictions on vehicular pursuits, and increasing investments in alternative responses teams, such as the City’s Behavioral Health Contact Team. Western State Hospital Community Partnership Program: Since 2007 the City has operated a highly effective Community Partnership Program (CPP) that creates a safer environment for both the hospital and surrounding neighborhoods. The CPP provides consistency in response to criminal cases, case management and increased safety for hospital patients and staff. The City requests ongoing funding for continued operation of the program. Geographic Equity in Discharge from State Facilities: The City appreciates the State’s recent efforts to move toward a more community-based behavioral health system. This transition presents an opportunity to not only provide more accessible services to those who need it most, but also for the facilities to be more geographically disbursed. Based on the findings from the Residential Facilities report, the State should invest in long term care facilities in all underserved regions of the state. Secondly, building upon the work of the Sex Offender Policy Board, the state should clarify that fair share principles apply to sexually violent predators released from state hospitals and secure community transition facilities. Contact Information: John J. Caulfield, City Manager Shelly Helder, State Lobbyist City of Lakewood Gordon Thomas Honeywell Government Affairs 253-983-7703 360-209-3338 jcaulfield@cityoflakewood.us shelder@gth-gov.com ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON November 7th, 2022 2  Return to Agenda Capital Budget Request Partnership with Nisqually Indian Tribe for Fort Steilacoom Park Improvements Request: The City, in partnership with the Nisqually Figure 1 Indian Tribe, requests $250,000 to fully fund art and signage improvements at Fort Steilacoom Park related to the history and culture of the Nisqually Indian Tribe. Background: The City of Lakewood and the Nisqually Indian Tribe are engaged in a collaborative partnership to develop interpretive installations on public lands within the City featuring the unique culture and history of the Nisqually Indian Tribe. The City and Nisqually Indian Tribe’s partnership pilot project at Ft. Steilacoom Park intends to add signage, art, and interpretive information throughout the park that will provide an introduction to the Nisqually people and will include Lushootseed language. The installations incorporate information regarding Chief Leschi’s legacy. Cultural interpretive markers will be installed along the 1.7 mile Nisqually Loop Trail. Plaza Area: A new kiosk sign with historic territory map, land acknowledgement statement and introduction to Nisqually Tribe (Figure 1), along with new benches that include tribal artwork. Nisqually Loop Trail: 6-8 interpretive markers featuring seasonal tribal cultural practices and/or highlighting flora and fauna endemic to the park with Lushootseed language along the trial. Chief Leschi Trailhead: Trailhead kiosk signage (Figure 1) and a significant sculptural art installation at newly established park entrance honoring the past and present legacy of the tribe and Chief Leschi. Funding Sources City $50,000 State $250,000 Total Project Cost $300,000 John J. Caulfield, City Manager Mary Dodsworth, PRCS Director Shelly Helder, State Lobbyist City of Lakewood City of Lakewood Gordon Thomas Honeywell Gov. Affairs 253.983.7703 253.983.7741 360-209-3338 jcaulfield@cityoflakewood.us mdodsworth@cityoflakewood.us shelder@gth-gov.com 3  Return to Agenda Capital Budget Request LASA Affordable Housing Project Request: The Living Access Support Alliance (LASA) is planning to construct 25 affordable low and lower- income housing units on their property in Lakewood. They are pursuing funding from city, county and state sources with an anticipated groundbreaking in 2024. Pierce County has committed $3.5 million and the City is seeking $2.5 million in federal funding. The City is also reviewing and considering allocation of ARPA funds, HOME funds, and HOME-ARP funds to this project; City budget decisions will be made by the end of 2022. On behalf of LASA, the City requests $500,000 from the state capital budget to address the urgent need for more affordable housing. Affordable Housing Needs in Lakewood: According to Lakewood –2022 Feb. Rent Prices 1 the Puget Sound Regional Council’s 2021 Regional No. of Median Year- Apartments Housing Needs Assessment 2, housing production for the Bedrooms Rent Over-Year for rent period 2010-2020 lagged behind growth targets by Change (Jan. ’22) 40,000-50,000 housing units. This accounts for 1 bedroom $1,295 8% 35 approximately two years of housing production. 2 bedroom $1,573 10% 37 3 bedroom $1.970 7% 9 Increasing population and stagnating home construction is significantly impacting both home and rent prices in the region. This translates to the need for affordable housing in the region, especially in Lakewood. LASA’s 25-unit housing project is comprised of 1 to 3 bedroom units, which have experienced sizable rent increases over the past year. Project Details: Living Access Support Alliance (LASA) is a nonprofit that provides emergency housing, rapid rehousing and transitional housing in Lakewood, in addition to case management, and a range of other services to prevent homelessness. This project is Phase 3 of a multi-phase development involving not only the addition of new affordable housing units, but also the expansion of LASA’s Client Services Center (“the Center”), which will include the creation of new facilities for basic hygiene and services for homeless individuals. Phase 3 consists of 25 affordable housing units, and Phase 4 consists of an additional 25 to 35 affordable housing units. Phase 2 is currently being completed and includes renovation of the Center facilities to include access to laundry facilities, showers, bathrooms, and basic hygiene for those experiencing homelessness. Individuals will have access to LASA’s services and connections to related providers, including mental health providers and case managers to assist with attaining permanent housing. This project will have a profound impact on the Lakewood community since LASA is the sole provider of these services in the City. The majority of these services are offered in and around Tacoma, thus the challenge faced by Lakewood’s homeless population is great as many lack the means to obtain transportation to utilize these services; the simple barrier of geography is often an insurmountable hurdle to those coping with homelessness. Where this project differs from most others is that it seeks to bring together the need for development of affordable housing with the need to provide ongoing services and access to basic hygiene for individuals experiencing homelessness in a “one-stop’ facility. Once completed, the project could feasibly move a family from a state of homelessness, through case management and the provision of basic services, into permanent affordable housing. Contact Information: John J. Caulfield, City Manager Shelly Helder, State Lobbyist City of Lakewood Gordon Thomas Honeywell Government Affairs 253-983-7703 360-209-3338 jcaulfield@cityoflakewood.us shelder@gth-gov.com 1 Annual Housing Reports - City of Lakewood 4 2 https://www.psrc.org/sites/default/files/rhna.pdf  Return to Agenda Operating Budget Request Western State Hospital Community Partnership Program Request: Since 2007 the City has operated a highly effective Community Partnership Program at Western State Hospital. Since 2017, the state operating budget has included $621,000 to fund the program. The City requests that the state adjust this amount for inflation to ensure the ongoing success of the program. Background: This longstanding partnership has successfully reduced calls for police service and created a safer environment for both the hospital and surrounding neighborhoods. Despite the ongoing need and the program’s consistent success, funding has not been codified and each fiscal biennium the Legislature must appropriate funds for the program’s continued operation. Since its inception, the program has resulted in a 40% reduction in calls for police services at Western State Hospital and has facilitated a stronger relationship between hospital staff, police, and the community. This, in turn, has resulted in increased collaboration and mutual feelings of trust and respect. In a 2019 Report to the Legislature, DSHS stated that, “WSH has seen the benefit of consistency in response to criminal cases, case management, and other concerns involving patients and staff on the WSH campus as a result of this partnership with the LPD.”1 The report’s assessment also highlighted that “the agreement allows the [LPD] to prioritize an intentional partnership with WSH, ensuring a proactive approach to the identified concerns and needs, support[ing] our ability to accomplish our mission of transforming lives.”2 In 2021, impacts from the nationwide “Great Resignation” required the Lakewood Police Department (LPD) to temporarily pause the program. LPD was able to quickly hire and train officers and reinstate the services at WSH. This demonstrates the City’s commitment to this program and its long-term success. To keep pace with rising costs, the City respectfully requests that the 2023-25 Operating Budget include sufficient funding for the CPP at WSH. John J. Caulfield, City Manager Mike Zaro, Police Chief Shelly Helder, State Lobbyist City of Lakewood City of Lakewood Gordon Thomas Honeywell Government Affairs 253.983.7703 253.830.5001 360-209-3338 jcaulfield@cityoflakewood.us mzaro@cityoflakewood.us shelder@gth-gov.com 1 2019 Report to the Legislature on the Western State Hospital – City of Lakewood Community Policing Program 2 Ibid. 5  Return to Agenda Policy Request Geographic Equity in Discharge from State Facilities The City appreciates the State’s recent efforts to move toward a more community-based behavioral health system. The City of Lakewood has long shouldered an inequitable share of the state’s responsibility to treat and care for the mentally ill and sexually violent predators. This transition presents an opportunity to not only provide more accessible services to those who need it most, but also for the facilities to be more geographically disbursed. Based on the findings from Commerce’s Residential Facilities report, the State should invest in long term care and treatment facilities in all underserved regions of the state. Secondly, building upon the work of the Sex Offender Policy Board, the state should clarify that fair share principles apply to sexually violent predators released from state hospitals and secure community transition facilities. What is the problem? Individuals are discharged from state facilities into less restrictive alternatives (LRAs) in Lakewood at an inequitable rate compared to other communities throughout the state, despite the individual’s county of origin. Additionally, individuals are placed in LRAs that do not have the appropriate services to meet the individuals needs and/or protect public safety, which may jeopardize the safety of LRA staff and residents alike. Recent Examples: • Accused murderer found not competent to stand trial but conditional release planned from Western State Hospital into the Lakewood community. • A sexually violent predator, also classified as Level 3 sex offender, committed in Thurston County was released from the Special Commitment Center to an adult family home in Lakewood on the basis that adequate housing was not available in his county of commitment. He received treatment in King County. • A sexually violent predator, also classified as Level 3 sex offender, committed in Spokane County was released from the Secure Community Transition Facility in Pierce County on the basis that return to his county of commitment would be inappropriate. He received treatment in Thurston County. • A sexually violent predator, also classified as Level 3 sex offender, committed in Mason County was released from the Special Commitment Center to an adult family home in Lakewood. • A man released from Western State Hospital to an adult family home in Lakewood was accused of assaulting a fellow resident, leading to his death. • Level 3 sex offender who committed crimes in Okanagan and Spokane counties, determined likely to reoffend was planned to be released from Eastern State Hospital to an adult family home in Lakewood. Proposed Solutions: 1) Procure additional services (e.g. housing, mental healthcare, etc.) within a regional service area if existing services are not adequate. Consider incentivizing providers in underserved areas. 2) Institute fair share policies for discharge planning from state hospitals and secure community transition facilities (expand SB 5163 policies which only apply to the Special Commitment Center). 3) Disclose publicly accessible and relevant criminal history to service providers during the discharge planning process. 4) Implement Department of Health credential waivers for treatment providers working in underserved counties. Contact Information: John J. Caulfield, City Manager Shelly Helder, State Lobbyist City of Lakewood Gordon Thomas Honeywell Government Affairs 253-983-7703 360-209-3338 jcaulfield@cityoflakewood.us shelder@gth-gov.com 6  Return to Agenda CITY OF LAKEWOOD STATE POLICY MANUAL ADOPTED BY CITY COUNCIL ON NOVEMBER 7th, 2022 7  Return to Agenda CITY OF LAKEWOOD LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON NOVEMBER 7TH, 2022 ___________________________________________________________________________ INDIGENOUS PEOPLE AND LANDS ACKNOWLEDGEMENT .......................................................................3 A STATEMENT ON EQUITY BY THE LAKEWOOD CITY COUNCIL ...........................................................3 HOUSING/ HOMELESSNESS SERVICES .............................................................................................................4 Capital Budget Request: LASA Affordable Housing Project ............................................................................................. 4 South Sound Affordable Housing Partners ........................................................................................................................ 4 Quality Affordable Housing ............................................................................................................................................... 5 Middle Housing ................................................................................................................................................................. 5 Support for Homelessness Services.................................................................................................................................... 5 Predatory Lending ............................................................................................................................................................. 5 Foreclosure of Homes........................................................................................................................................................ 5 COMMUNITY& ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ..................................................................................................6 Tax Increment Financing Fix............................................................................................................................................. 6 Economic Development Tools............................................................................................................................................ 6 Annexation ......................................................................................................................................................................... 6 Camp Murray Boat Launch Improvements ........................................................................................................................ 6 Boundary Review Board .................................................................................................................................................... 7 Local Authority for Land Use and Planning ...................................................................................................................... 7 Need for Unique Restrictions in Air Corridors .................................................................................................................. 7 PARKS, RECREATION, & COMMUNITY SERVICES .......................................................................................7 Capital Budget Request: Nisqually Partnership Program for Fort Steilacoom Park ........................................................ 7 Historic Fort Steilacoom ................................................................................................................................................... 7 South Puget Sound Wildlife Area ....................................................................................................................................... 8 State Funding ..................................................................................................................................................................... 8 TRANSPORTATION & INFRASTRUCTURE .......................................................................................................9 City Right of Way ............................................................................................................................................................... 9 I-5 South Sound Corridor Improvements ........................................................................................................................... 9 Infrastructure Funding .................................................................................................................................................... 10 Limiting Additional Freight on Point Defiance Bypass (Lakeview Rail Line) ................................................................. 10 Future Commercial Airfields - JBLM .............................................................................................................................. 10 Stormwater & Culvert Funding ....................................................................................................................................... 11 Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations ......................................................................................................................... 11 FINANCES ................................................................................................................................................................. 11 State-Shared Revenues..................................................................................................................................................... 11 General Fund Revenue .................................................................................................................................................... 11 City Financial Liability for Indigent Defense .................................................................................................................. 11 Unfunded Mandates & Other State & Federal Budget Impacts ...................................................................................... 11 PUBLIC SAFETY ..................................................................................................................................................... 12 Body Worn Cameras ........................................................................................................................................................ 12 Hiring and Retention ....................................................................................................................................................... 12 Binding Interest Arbitration Reform ................................................................................................................................ 12 Vehicular Pursuits ........................................................................................................................................................... 12 Operating Budget Request: Community Partnership Program at Western State Hospital .............................................. 12 Authority to Appoint Municipal Court Judges ................................................................................................................. 13 Traffic Enforcement Cameras .......................................................................................................................................... 13 Basic Law Enforcement Academy (BLEA) ....................................................................................................................... 13 Jail and Court Costs ........................................................................................................................................................ 13 Geographic Equity in Discharge from State Facilities .................................................................................................... 13 Protecting Residents of Adult Family Homes .................................................................................................................. 14 State Hospital Reentry Program ...................................................................................................................................... 14 Enhanced Services Facilities ........................................................................................................................................... 14 Acute and Long-Term Care Facilities ............................................................................................................................. 14 2 8  Return to Agenda CITY OF LAKEWOOD LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON NOVEMBER 7TH, 2022 ___________________________________________________________________________ Civil Asset Forfeiture ....................................................................................................................................................... 14 Consolidate Traffic-Based Financial Obligations ........................................................................................................... 14 Blake Response ................................................................................................................................................................ 15 GENERAL GOVERNMENT ................................................................................................................................... 16 Public Records & Open Meetings.................................................................................................................................... 16 MILITARY AFFAIRS .............................................................................................................................................. 17 Defense Community Compatibility Account – North Clear Zone Funding ...................................................................... 17 South Sound Military & Communities Partnership (SSMCP) & Joint Base Lewis-McChord ......................................... 17 American Lake Veterans Golf Course Tax Exemption..................................................................................................... 18 INDIGENOUS PEOPLE AND LANDS ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Every community owes its existence and vitality to generations from around the world who contributed their hopes, dreams, and energy to making the history which led to this moment. The City would like to recognize that we are on the lands of the Nisqually People, and acknowledge the history of dispossession that allowed for the growth of our community. We offer respect to the Nisqually People and their Elders, past, present, and emerging. We recognize our responsibility to value all people, and are committed to equitably serving all people in our diverse community. A STATEMENT ON EQUITY BY THE LAKEWOOD CITY COUNCIL The Lakewood City Council acknowledges that equity is essential to a healthy community. We are committed to identifying and eliminating systemic racism. We intend to lead by example in the advancement of equity and the deliberate practice of inclusion. The City Council commits to the following practices: • Instilling equity as a priority of policy and the delivery of services. • Enacting initiatives that support and celebrate the diversity of the community. • Ensuring equity in municipal planning. • Identifying and dismantling preconceived prejudices. • Increasing sensitivity to social norms and cultural expectations. • Pursuing justice and equity for all residents. We recognize the critical role that city leaders have in removing barriers to opportunity. We recognize that systemic inequality has endured, but commit that it shall not persist. The City Council will not tolerate intolerance. It is unconscionable that some members of our community fall victim to acts of hate. Acts of hate based upon race, creed, ancestry, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or socioeconomic status are unwelcome in Lakewood, Washington. The Lakewood Police Department shall be vigilant in its investigation and prosecution of crimes of hate. These intentional practices will inform our decision-making on policing, zoning, capital investment and all other matters of the City Council. Our objective is to 3 9  Return to Agenda CITY OF LAKEWOOD LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON NOVEMBER 7TH, 2022 ___________________________________________________________________________ create a more diverse, equitable and inclusive Lakewood community for all residents and we invite all Lakewood organizations and residents to join us in this effort. City Council Goals Legend The policy goals in the State Policy Manual align with the City Council Goals 2021-2024. Each policy name is a different color to reflect the corresponding City Council Goal. Economic Development Dependable Infrastructure Public Safety Fiscal Responsibility Transparency Robust & Active Community HOUSING/ HOMELESSNESS SERVICES Capital Budget Request: LASA Affordable Housing Project Living Access Support Alliance (LASA) is a nonprofit that provides emergency housing, rapid rehousing and transitional housing in Lakewood, in addition to case management, and a range of other services to prevent homelessness. LASA is planning to construct roughly 25 affordable low and lower-income housing units on their property in Lakewood. They are pursuing funding from city, county and state sources with an anticipated groundbreaking in 2024. Pierce County has committed $3.5 million and the City is committing a minimum of $2 million to this project. The City is also seeking $2.5 million in federal funding. On behalf of LASA, the City requests $500,000 from the state capital budget to address the urgent need for more affordable housing. South Sound Affordable Housing Partners The City is a founding member of the South Sound Affordable Housing Partners (SSHA3P), which is a regional effort by member municipalities to address affordable housing with a coordinated approach. The City supports SSHA3P’s 2023 state legislative priorities on affordable housing: • Support basic infrastructure funding via flexible funds through programs like the Public Works Assistance Account (PWAA) and Connecting Housing to Infrastructure Program (CHIP) to help cities and towns fund basic infrastructure, critical to the development of housing. • Support surplus land dispossession policy updates to provide greater flexibility for the homeownership development opportunities for low- and moderate-income households. • Support rental assistance funding to limit evictions. • Support operating funding for permanent supportive housing. • Support creation of local revenue options to fund the development of affordable housing. • Monitor proposals to increase access to homeownership opportunities, including condominium liability reform and recommendations made by the Homeownership Disparity Workgroup. 4 10  Return to Agenda CITY OF LAKEWOOD LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON NOVEMBER 7TH, 2022 ___________________________________________________________________________ • Oppose preemption of local land use authority. Quality Affordable Housing The City supports legislation that incentivizes developers to build affordable housing, such as the multifamily housing tax exemption, and funding allocated for public and nonprofit affordable housing, including the Housing Trust Fund. Middle Housing The City supports local zoning for middle housing types. Middle housing types including duplexes, triplexes, ADUs and multifamily housing are currently allowed on 55% of the City’s residential lots, and cottage housing is allowed wherever single family detached housing is allowed, or on 78% of the lots. The City has a variety of policy tools for supporting the development of middle housing types, such as the City’s Multi-Family Tax Exemption (MFTE) program, a housing incentives regulatory code chapter, and inclusionary density bonuses for landowners interested in providing units for very low income persons. In addition, the City was selected for a competitive grant through the Department of Commerce to evaluate the authorization of middle housing types on at least 30% of lots zoned for single family. The City’s programs and efforts at the local level to support middle housing development should not be preempted by the State. The City opposes state legislation that dictates land use and zoning without consideration for unintended consequences such as displacement and gentrification. Support for Homelessness Services Every year since incorporation, the City has allocated 1% of its general fund to support low-income and vulnerable r by partnering with and funding community-based organizations to provide access to: housing, food, youth programs, behavioral health services, and other human services. The City requests the state’s partnership in supporting programs and services that help prevent temporary and recurrent homelessness. Predatory Lending The City supports legislation to stop all predatory home lending practices and supports enforcement of state laws to ensure all home renting practices are in compliance with existing regulations. Foreclosure of Homes The City supports legislation that assists local jurisdictions in managing vacant, abandoned, and tax-delinquent properties. Without responsible management, these properties can cause problems throughout an entire community. The properties can become fire hazards, home to squatters, location of crime, and result in general decline in property values. In the upcoming session, the City also supports evaluating the effectiveness of legislation passed in this area. 5 11  Return to Agenda CITY OF LAKEWOOD LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON NOVEMBER 7TH, 2022 ___________________________________________________________________________ COMMUNITY& ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Tax Increment Financing Fix The City supports technical fixes to the recently enacted tax increment financing authority. Passing legislation to make technical corrections to the statute will allow the authority to be used by jurisdictions as it was intended. These changes will more easily allow the City to use tax increment financing to support the relocation of the WSDOT Maintenance Facility on Pacific Highway. Economic Development Tools The City supports robust and sustainable funding for the Economic Development Strategic Reserve Fund, Community Economic Revitalization Board, Public Works Assistance Account, Public Facility Districts, and other programs that assist local governments in neighborhood residential and commercial area rehabilitation. The City also supports legislation that provides optional economic development tools for cities, such as the multi-family housing tax incentive, 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 provision of urban services. The City supports legislation that would modify state annexation laws to reduce the administrative process and the overall cost of annexation, both of which would help encourage and incentivize the annexation of existing unincorporated islands. Camp Murray Boat Launch Improvements In 2020 the City and Camp Murray leadership evaluated the installation for potential annexation. After jointly completing the Camp Murray Annexation Analysis Report, Camp Murray leadership is not supportive of annexation because it would result in increased costs for Camp Murray. However, the City and Camp Murray are interested in exploring options to make improvements at the Camp Murray Boat Launch. The boat launch provides public access to American Lake and is currently managed by the Washington State Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW). Specifically, the City is interested in acquiring the Camp Murray Boat Launch with the goal of creating a city park. The City would invest in infrastructure development to increase accessibility to American Lake. This may be accomplished through annexation of the boat launch property from 6 12  Return to Agenda CITY OF LAKEWOOD LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON NOVEMBER 7TH, 2022 ___________________________________________________________________________ Camp Murray or assuming the property lease from the Washington State Department of Fish & Wildlife. Boundary Review Board The City supports the elimination of Boundary Review Boards’ (BRB) role in reviewing items that are governed by the GMA (RCW 36.70A) while authorizing counties to determine whether to retain their BRB to review non-GMA-governed issues (e.g., special purpose district expansions). Local Authority for Land Use and Planning The City supports preserving the authority of local governments regarding local taxation, as well as land use planning, zoning and regulation consistent with the GMA (RCW 36.70A) and SEPA (RCW 43.21C.) The City supports state level efforts to bolster military installations’ sustainability and operational readiness and address land use compatibility issues, so long as local jurisdictional control over land use and infrastructure planning is not eroded. Need for Unique Restrictions in Air Corridors The City believes that unique restrictions on land use density is necessary for land proximate to military installations. Such restrictions must be recognized within buildable lands reports, growth targets, and comprehensive planning. The North Clear Zone, Air Corridor 1 and Air Corridor 2 zones in Lakewood’s case are zones that reflect the FAA and DoD guidance regarding safe densities and types of uses. Cities should not be forced to choose between GMA compliance and guidance from Army Compatible Use Buffer (ACUB) and Air Installation Compatible Use Zones (AICUZ) reports. PARKS, RECREATION, & COMMUNITY SERVICES Capital Budget Request: Nisqually Partnership Program for Fort Steilacoom Park The City and the Nisqually Indian Tribe are engaged in a collaborative partnership to develop interpretive installations on public lands within the City that feature the unique culture and history of the Nisqually Indian Tribe. The partnership pilot project at Fort Steilacoom Park intends to add signage, art and interpretive information throughout the park. The features will provide an introduction to the Nisqually people and will include Lushootseed language, information regarding Chief Leschi’s legacy and cultural interpretive markers along the 1.7 mile Nisqually Loop Trail. The total project cost is $300,000, with the City committing $50,000. The City, in partnership with the Nisqually Indian Tribe, requests $250,000 from the state capital budget to fully fund the project. Historic Fort Steilacoom The City requests that the State work with City and the Historic Fort Steilacoom Association to explore how to best preserve Historic Fort Steilacoom for future generations to use and enjoy. Historic Fort Steilacoom is one of the best preserved pre-civil war forts west of the Mississippi comprised of parade ground, two remaining junior officer’s quarters, the headquarters building 7 13  Return to Agenda CITY OF LAKEWOOD LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON NOVEMBER 7TH, 2022 ___________________________________________________________________________ with the commanding officer’s residence, and the post chapel and chaplain’s quarters that presently serve as an interpretive center and offices. Currently, the fort is located on land and in buildings owned by DSHS and the facilities are in critical need of maintenance and repair. The City encourages the state to undertake a joint exploration with the City and the Historic Fort Steilacoom Association to determine how to best preserve this historic amenity in perpetuity. The City encourages this assessment to consider partnerships between the state and the City, City ownership, and various private-public partnerships. H Barn Renovation at Fort Steilacoom Park The City has made major investments at Fort Steilacoom Park. As a continuation of these efforts and in coordination with the Partners for Parks and the Town of Steilacoom, the City is planning to restore the historic H Barn. A capital fundraising effort, led by Partners for Parks, is underway. The City anticipates seeking the state’s financial support in the coming years. South Puget Sound Wildlife Area The South Puget Sound Wildlife Area is a 100-acre open space area located in Lakewood. The site includes hiking and bike trails, picnic area with views of prairie habitat, native plant garden with information on indigenous plants, as well as an active fish hatchery and turtle ponds. This area is owned by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife but maintained by local volunteers. Over 2,000 volunteer hours and $100,000 has been donated towards site improvements. The City is requesting additional state funded maintenance at this site along with implementation of master plan capital site improvements. State Funding The City supports programs administered by the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) and opposes diversion from RCO programs. Specifically, the City supports ongoing funding for the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program (WWRP), Aquatic Land Enhancement Account (ALEA), and the Youth Athletic Facilities (YAF) grant programs. The City has been recommended and ranked for funding with the following projects: Wards Lake Park – Phase 2 This project includes an expanded trail system, new neighborhood park on the south side of the site and a new restroom, picnic shelter and playground at the north side of the park, and is eligible for the following state funding: • Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) ($1,250,000), ranked 7 out of 25 • Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program (WWRP) ($500,000), ranked 9 out of 25 • Youth Athletic Facilities Grant (YAF) ($350,000), ranked 9 out of 34 Harry Todd Park This project includes four pickle ball courts, ADA accessible parking, and new access routes, and is eligible for the following state funding: 8 14  Return to Agenda CITY OF LAKEWOOD LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON NOVEMBER 7TH, 2022 ___________________________________________________________________________ • YAF Grant: ($350,000) ranked 14 out of 34 TRANSPORTATION & INFRASTRUCTURE City Right of Way There have been several proposals in the last few years that would limit city authority over right of way and utility franchise agreements. The City opposes legislation that erodes local control over city right of way. I-5 South Sound Corridor Improvements The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has indicated a preference to take a holistic approach to transportation improvements along the I-5 corridor. The City supports this position and WSDOT’s efforts to ensure that future investments in the I-5 south sound corridor resolve, rather than shift traffic congestion points. Below are specific issues that require the Legislature’s attention: 1) I-5 JBLM Corridor Improvements: The 2015 Connecting Washington package invested $495 million to widen the I-5 corridor through Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM), reconfigure three interchanges and build a connector road from Gravelly Lake Drive to Thorne Lane. Construction of this Connector should prioritize road safety and mitigate impacts to neighbors. A primary goal of this investment was to eliminate the bottleneck at Thorne Road by expanding the corridor from three to four lanes. Although this work is still underway, the congestion at Thorne Lane is significantly reduced due to the additional lane and interchange reconfiguration. Future investments along the I-5 corridor, particularly expanding I-5 north of Thorne Lane from four to five lanes to accommodate HOV lanes, should consider the impact it would have on this and other congestion points. 2) I-5 High Occupancy Vehicle Lanes: The City supports the I-5 Tacoma/Pierce County High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lanes Program and appreciates that the 2022 Move Ahead WA package allocated $244 million to extend the program along I-5 between 38th and Gravelly Lake Drive. The City requests an extension of this program to include a dedicated HOV 5th lane (one each direction) from Tacoma to Mounts Road in DuPont which requires a reconfigured interchange at the Main Gate (Exit 120). If additional HOV lanes are not extended throughout the entire south sound corridor, the previous bottleneck that began at Thorne Lane will return, despite significant state investments to alleviate this congestion. The timing of this extension should align with the expansion of I-5 south of Mounts Road, to mitigate additional congestion at that chokepoint. 3) Main Gate Interchange (Exit 120): As part of the current I-5 JBLM Corridor Improvements, WSDOT identified the Main Gate Interchange (Exit 120) reconfiguration as a necessary future improvement to expand I-5 from four to five lanes and address systemic congestion through the corridor. This Interchange serves as the primary access 9 15  Return to Agenda CITY OF LAKEWOOD LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON NOVEMBER 7TH, 2022 ___________________________________________________________________________ to Lewis Main on the east side of I-5 and to Lewis North on the west side. The proximity of the at-grade rail crossing to the Lewis North gate is a safety concern and creates backups on I-5 during peak periods. Reconfiguring the interchange to include a grade separated crossing would eliminate this risk for service members and Clover Park School District buses that use this at-grade crossing to access the installation. 4) I-5 Mounts Road to Tumwater & Nisqually River Delta: I-5 is the lifeline of commerce, transportation, and JBLM’s mission readiness in the Puget Sound Region. However, the current design of I-5 restricts critical ecological functions impacting salmon survival, is at a high risk of being overtopped by a major flooding event and has limited capacity to handle the growing South Sound economy and population - a key component to national security since 30% of the JBLM workforce live south of the Nisqually River. Lakewood, in partnership with SSMCP and the Nisqually Tribe, support a redesign of I-5 south of Mounts Road through the Nisqually River Delta to address congestion in the region, improve salmon survival and eliminate the flood risk. The $75 million allocated to this project in the Move Ahead Washington package is an important step but more work will be needed. Infrastructure Funding Local agencies, including the City of Lakewood, lack resources for infrastructure funding. As a result, city roads remain in disrepair or general fund dollars are taken from other important services to repair roads; or a combination thereof. The City joins AWC in requesting expansion of state funding to assist with maintenance and preservation of local infrastructure. The City continues to support the state’s ongoing and increased investment in infrastructure funding programs such as the Public Works Assistance Account. 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 within Lakewood or Joint Base Lewis-McChord. 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 increased freight traffic in addition to new passenger rail. Future Commercial Airfields - JBLM The City opposes the use of Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) as a commercial air field. The Commercial Aviation Coordinating Commission (CACC) was created by the state legislature and tasked with recommending a new primary commercial aviation facility in Washington by June 2023. The CACC initially identified JBLM as a potential location but has eliminated JBLM from further consideration to focus on three greenfield sites: Pierce County Central, Pierce County East and Thurston County Central. The City opposes the use of JBLM as a commercial airfield or any location that would impede the operations of JBLM. 10 16  Return to Agenda CITY OF LAKEWOOD LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON NOVEMBER 7TH, 2022 ___________________________________________________________________________ Stormwater & Culvert Funding Cities have significant stormwater and culvert funding needs. The City of Lakewood joins AWC in requesting secure, ongoing and sufficient funding for city culvert repair and replacement. The City supports funding for current and new grant programs for local stormwater and culvert projects. Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations The City supports both Federal and State legislation for strategically implementing electric vehicle charging stations. The City requests that as EV charging station programs begin implementation, that regional and state public entities, such as Pierce Transit, Sound Transit, WSDOT and relevant utility companies, lead the implementation effort through both funding and administration. FINANCES State-Shared Revenues Cities rely on state-shared revenues to provide critical funding for essential public services. Recognizing the state is facing a budget surplus, the City joins AWC in supporting restoration and continued appropriation of committed state shared funds, such as Liquor Excise Taxes and Profits, City-County Assistance Account, Municipal Criminal Justice Account, Annexation Sales Tax Credit, and public health funding. These funds are used to support city activities, including police, infrastructure development, public defenders, municipal court, etc. In total, state-shared revenues constitute a significant portion of the City’s operating revenue (6%). General Fund Revenue The City supports legislation that will increase, expand, or favorably restructure its revenue-raising ability. In consideration of 1) the continued growth in demand for services that exceed revenue growth and inflation, and 2) intimate knowledge of individual community needs, the City supports unrestricted uses of all general government tax revenue. For example, restrictions on the use of real estate excise tax (REET), gambling taxes, etc. City Financial Liability for Indigent Defense Indigent defense is a constitutional right that should be funded by the state. Over the last 9 years, county expenditures for public defense costs have increased by more than 56%. Counties contribute approximately $165 million per year to trial court public defense costs; the state contributes approximately $6 million per year. Since 2018, the City has paid on average $494,000 per year toward indigent defense. This compensation has been trending upwards in recent years due to economic pressures from the pandemic. The City supports state funding for indigent defense that is standardized and non-competitive in order to ensure more equitable funding. 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. 11 17  Return to Agenda CITY OF LAKEWOOD LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON NOVEMBER 7TH, 2022 ___________________________________________________________________________ The City opposes efforts by the State Legislature to balance budgets by shifting responsibilities to cities. PUBLIC SAFETY Body Worn Cameras In the 2022 session the state legislature allocated $100,000 to establish a body camera grant program. The City supports increased funding for this program to assist municipalities with the purchase, maintenance or replacement of Body Worn Cameras (BWC), ongoing costs related to record management, and hiring of personnel to operate the BWC program. Hiring and Retention Public safety agencies nationwide are experiencing officers leaving the profession at an unprecedented rate, either through early retirement or leaving the field. The City supports state policies that promote retention of law enforcement officers and expedite opportunities for newly hired officers to receive training. Binding Interest Arbitration Reform The City recognizes the importance of having a tool to help resolve potentially devastating strikes by essential service personnel, such as police and firefighters. However, existing binding interest arbitration statutes are out-of-date and inflexible, resulting in many unintended consequences – the City finds this particularly true in regard to disciplinary processes. The City requests that the state reform existing binding interest arbitration language to limit unintended repercussions. Vehicular Pursuits The City joins the Association of Washington Cities (AWC) in requesting clarification of the ability for law enforcement to conduct vehicular pursuits for the benefit of public safety. The City requests revisiting SB 5919 language which states probable cause, rather than reasonable suspicion, is necessary to begin pursuits. Since the passing of SB 5919, there have been several occasions where the high standard of probable cause prevented pursuit of a vehicle, jeopardizing public safety. The City will continue to support safety measures and training for officers who engage in vehicular pursuits. Operating Budget Request: Community Partnership Program at Western State Hospital Since 2007 the City has operated a highly effective Community Partnership Program (CPP) to improve public safety at Western State Hospital (WSH). The CPP has responded to hundreds of calls for police service at WSH and has supported the overall safety of hospital staff and the surrounding community. Despite steady cost increases, funding for the program has remained stagnant since 2017. The City requests ongoing funding for continued operation of the program. 12 18  Return to Agenda CITY OF LAKEWOOD LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON NOVEMBER 7TH, 2022 ___________________________________________________________________________ Authority to Appoint Municipal Court Judges The City supports cities’ authority to appoint a municipal court judge and to maintain municipal courts. The City supports further technical and financial assistance for the administration of municipal courts. Traffic Enforcement Cameras The state legislature has authorized local government to use traffic enforcement cameras in limited situations, including red light enforcement at certain intersections and speed control in certain zones. Traffic enforcement cameras have proven to be successful at reducing instances of speeding and violations 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 when there is probable cause. Basic Law Enforcement Academy (BLEA) The City supports ongoing funding of the Basic Law Enforcement Academy which is the sole training program for police departments statewide. With an increasing number of law enforcement officers retiring, it is imperative this program receive adequate funding to provide ample training openings for new hires in a timely manner. The City supports the regionalization of Criminal Justice Training Commission campuses to allow BLEA and other standardized trainings to be offered in multiple locations throughout the state. Jail and Court Costs The City supports legislative proposals that reduce jail and court costs, and maintain its 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. The City will monitor all legislation that impacts the City’s ability to contract with government agencies. Geographic Equity in Discharge from State Facilities The City appreciates the State’s recent efforts to move toward a more community-based behavioral health system. This transition presents an opportunity to not only provide more accessible services to those who need it most, but also for the facilities to be more geographically disbursed. Based on the findings from the Residential Facilities report, the State should invest in long term care facilities in all underserved regions of the state. Secondly, building upon the work of the Sex Offender Policy Board, the state should clarify that fair share principles apply to sexually violent predators released from state hospitals and secure community transition facilities. The City requests the following changes be made to state law: 1) Institute fair share policies for discharge planning from state hospitals for individuals that have a history of one or more violent acts (extend SB 5163 policies, that only apply to the Special Commitment Center, to state hospitals). 13 19  Return to Agenda CITY OF LAKEWOOD LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON NOVEMBER 7TH, 2022 ___________________________________________________________________________ 2) Disclose publicly accessible and relevant criminal history to service providers for certain persons during the discharge planning process. 3) Procure additional services (e.g. housing, mental healthcare, etc.) within a regional service area if existing services are not adequate. 4) Implement Department of Health credential waivers for treatment providers working in underserved counties. Protecting Residents of Adult Family Homes Adult Family Homes (AFHs) serve adults with functional limitations who need personal and special care. The City requests legislation that protects these vulnerable members of our community by preventing Level 2 and 3 registered sex offenders, sexually violent predators and “felony flips” from residing in AFHs. The City supports amending the definition of “resident” in RCW 70.128.010 to exclude individuals convicted of sexually violent crimes and crimes that require registration as a sex offender. State Hospital Reentry Program The City supports language that would expand the reentry community safety program. The current program is designed for individuals being released from a correctional facility. The City supports expanding the program to apply to patients who are civilly committed after prosecution for a violent offense or who are civilly committed based on criminal insanity. Enhanced Services Facilities Enhanced Services Facilities (ESFs) serve adults with mental and chemical disorders or other impairments that require supervision and daily care. The City supports legislation that would prohibit Adult Family Home businesses (AFHs) from converting to ESFs, as well as legislation that would prohibit the locating of ESFs in residential neighborhoods. Acute and Long-Term Care Facilities The City supports the implementation of the Trueblood Settlement Agreement and state funding for the construction and ongoing operation of acute and long-term care facilities equitably dispersed in communities throughout the state. Civil Asset Forfeiture Civil asset forfeiture allows law enforcement agencies to take possession of property when the property itself is illegal, was used to facilitate a crime, is proceeds from a crime, or was purchased with proceeds traceable to criminal activity. The City views civil asset forfeiture as a valuable tool, and will closely monitor legislation and oppose provisions that add restrictions on law enforcement’s use of civil asset forfeiture. Consolidate Traffic-Based Financial Obligations The City supports legislative proposals that would authorize the Administrative Office of the Courts to establish a unified payment plan system for the consolidation of multiple traffic-based 14 20  Return to Agenda CITY OF LAKEWOOD LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON NOVEMBER 7TH, 2022 ___________________________________________________________________________ financial obligations. This solution allows defendants to bring multiple outstanding obligations into the new payment plan for ongoing servicing with a single point of contact, reduces the volume of driver’s license suspension for failure to respond or pay, fewer DWLS-3 prosecutions, and improved collection rates. Blake Response The City joins AWC in requesting funding to help offset city costs created by the Blake Decision on how possession of controlled substances is handled by the criminal justice system. City costs include processing criminal conviction vacations and repaying legal financial obligations as well as support for ongoing costs for diversion programs and municipal court impacts. The City also supports more state investment in alternative response teams, treatment facilities for adults and juveniles, treatment in jails, and to provide support to social workers, treatment providers and system navigators to help direct people to treatment. Clarification is also needed regarding the crime of possession of a controlled substance so individuals, law enforcement, and treatment providers can respond appropriately. 15 21  Return to Agenda CITY OF LAKEWOOD LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON NOVEMBER 7TH, 2022 ___________________________________________________________________________ GENERAL GOVERNMENT 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. 16 22  Return to Agenda CITY OF LAKEWOOD LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON NOVEMBER 7TH, 2022 ___________________________________________________________________________ MILITARY AFFAIRS Defense Community Compatibility Account – North Clear Zone Funding The City of Lakewood supports full funding for the Defense Community Compatibility Account (DCCA) project list. The DCCA is a grant program that supports necessary infrastructure and compatible land use near Washington military installations. The DCCA is the most viable long- term option to secure the required state/local match to resolve the incompatible development in the McChord North Clear Zone. The City applied for a $900,000 grant for the North Clear Zone. South Sound Military & Communities Partnership (SSMCP) & Joint Base Lewis- McChord The City of Lakewood is a strong partner with Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) and a founding member of the South Sound Military & Communities Partnership (SSMCP), a nationally recognized organization that gives unique voice to a range of issues affecting Pierce and Thurston Counties and their cities as well as JBLM, the largest military installation in Washington State. JBLM is a regional employment hub and a major statewide economic driver. The City supports the ongoing efforts of SSMCP and supports policy and financial decisions that assist JBLM’s operational readiness and sustainability. The City also believes in strong policy and financial commitments from the State in support of statewide military affairs while preserving local governments’ and regional coordinating organizations’ flexibility and authority to maintain communications and relationships with area installations. Lakewood supports establishing a Military Advisory Council to advise the Governor and Legislature; providing financial support of regional military-community partnerships such as Forward Fairchild, Puget Sound Naval Bases Association and SSMCP; and strengthening financial, legislative and political support for 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. The City supports SSMCP’s 2023 Legislative Priorities: 1) Defense Community Compatibility Account (DCCA) The 2019 Legislature established the DCCA - a grant program to help civilian communities near military installations address compatibility challenges. SSMCP requests the Legislature fully fund the Commerce recommended project list – which includes $900,000 for the McChord Airfield North Clear Zone. SSMCP also requests the Legislature amend the statute to improve the program’s long term success. These changes will improve the likelihood that the DCCA grant program will be funded through the biennial capital budget on a recurring basis. 17 23  Return to Agenda CITY OF LAKEWOOD LEGISLATIVE POLICY MANUAL ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON NOVEMBER 7TH, 2022 ___________________________________________________________________________ 2) Occupational Licensing Improvements WA State is making steady progress on reducing barriers for military spouses to obtain occupational licenses, but there is more work to do. SSMCP supports the adoption of additional interstate licensure compacts and policy changes to expedite and ease the occupational licensing process for military spouses. SSMCP recognizes these policy changes must strike a balance to ensure only those with proper qualifications are licensed. 3) Statewide Economic Impact Analysis SSMCP has coordinated two regional economic impact analyses over the last several years. The most recent report concluded that JBLM generates over $12 billion a year in economic impact for Pierce and Thurston Counties alone. There has been no statewide analysis of impacts from all of Washington’s military installations. SSMCP requests the Legislature allocate resources for a statewide economic impact analysis. 4) I-5 Mounts Road to Tumwater & Nisqually River Delta The current design of I-5 restricts critical ecological functions impacting salmon survival, is at a high risk of being overtopped by a major flooding event and has limited capacity to handle the growing South Sound economy and population - a key component to national security since 30% of the JBLM workforce live south of the Nisqually River. The Legislature allocated $75 million in the Move Ahead WA package; SSMCP requests phasing of these funds to allow timely delivery of the project. $19 million toward the roundabouts on SR 507 is needed in 2023 and $56 million for the Nisqually River Delta will be needed when NEPA is complete. If additional funding is available, SSMCP supports prioritizing projects along the Mounts Road to Tumwater corridor, including $1.5 million for preliminary engineering of hard shoulder running between Sleater Kinney Rd and Henderson Blvd. American Lake Veterans Golf Course Tax Exemption The American Lake Veterans Golf Course (ALVGC) has always been a United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) golf course. In 2017, the VA decided to have the golf course run by Friends of American Lake Veterans Golf Course (Friends), a nonprofit, and it is unclear whether Friends will have to pay sales tax and business and occupation tax. The City supports legislation that clarifies that the ALVGC is not subject to sales tax or business and occupation tax. 18 24