Black Diamond public meetings in 2021

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission approved the October and November meeting minutes and introduced the three commissioners appointed for the 2022-2025 term: Pam McCain, Carol Morgan, and John Olson. No public hearings or substantive decisions were made; the meeting focused on procedural items and a presentation on the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Plan.

• Adopted October 12, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted November 9, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Introduced new Planning Commissioners for term 1/1/2022-12/31/2025: Pam McCain, Carol Morgan, John Olson

City Council

The City Council held a work session to discuss potential exemptions to the Traffic Impact Fee ordinance, including for low-income housing, early learning facilities, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs). No formal decision was made; the Council reached consensus to further explore these options and directed staff to gather metrics and benchmarks from other cities to bring back to another work session. The meeting was adjourned with a unanimous 6-0 vote.

• Discussed potential Traffic Impact Fee exemptions for low-income housing, early learning facilities, and ADUs.
• Reached consensus to further explore exemption options and gather benchmarks from other cities.
• Directed staff to bring metrics and benchmark information back to a future work session.
• Adjourned the meeting with a unanimous 6-0 vote.

City Council

The Black Diamond City Council unanimously approved the 2022 operating budget via Ordinance No. 21-1168, reducing the general fund transfer for future campus costs to $1,800,000 and earmarking $200,000 for a future City Administrator. A proposed amendment to reduce public safety funding by the cost of two additional police officers and prepare a levy lid lift for a public vote failed for lack of a second. The council also approved the consent agenda, including resolutions extending the King County Metro stormwater agreement and deferring a sewer rate increase.

• Approved the meeting agenda (6-0).
• Approved the consent agenda, including AB21-078 (King County Metro stormwater agreement extension) and AB21-079 (deferring sewer rate increase) (6-0).
• Closed the public hearing on the 2022 budget with no public testimony.
• Adopted Ordinance No. 21-1168, the 2022 operating budget, reducing the transfer to future campus costs to $1,800,000 and earmarking $200,000 for a future City Administrator (6-0).
• Rejected a motion to reduce public safety funding by the cost of two additional officers and prepare a levy lid lift for a public vote (died for lack of a second).
• Adjourned the meeting (6-0).

City Council

The Black Diamond City Council approved the 2022 property tax increase and assessed valuation, adopted the city's 2022 legislative agenda, and authorized a change order for the Springs Transmission Main construction contract. The council also approved the consent agenda, which included claims, payroll, and several service contracts. No public hearing comments were received on the 2022 preliminary budget.

• Adopted 2022 property tax dollar amount increase (6-0)
• Set estimated assessed valuation and maximum property tax for 2022 (6-0)
• Approved city's 2022 legislative agenda (6-0)
• Authorized change order for Springs Transmission Main construction (6-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including claims, payroll, and contracts (6-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission voted on a series of recommendations to correct the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) and zoning map, including designating parcels as Public, Low Density Residential, and other uses, and removing a Master Planned Development overlay. All recommendations will be forwarded to the City Council. The commission also recommended adding policies on marijuana businesses and moving an economic development policy, but failed to pass a policy on conducting an ecological inventory.

• Approved FLUM amendment designating parcels 0421069087 and 0421069106 as Public (6-0)
• Approved FLUM amendment designating 28 parcels as Low Density Residential (6-0)
• Approved removal of Master Planned Development overlay from parcel 1321069012 (6-0)
• Approved designating parcel 1021069016 as Business Park & Light Industrial with Business/Industrial Park zoning (5-1)
• Approved designating parcel 1121069017 as Community Commercial (4-2)
• Approved designating parcels 1121069024, 1221069038, and 1321069017 as Industrial or Low Density Residential with corresponding zoning (5-1 each)
• Approved zoning Lake Sawyer parcels as R4 (6-0)
• Approved adding Policy LU-50 on marijuana retail siting to the comprehensive plan (4-2)

City Council

The City Council held a work session to review the 2020 Comprehensive Plan amendments, which are ready for adoption after the city prevailed on an appeal. Staff and the city attorney discussed the timeline and Planning Commission recommendations, including two proposed text changes. No formal vote was taken on the amendments; the council directed staff to schedule a public hearing for December 2.

• Reviewed 2020 Comprehensive Plan amendments (no vote)
• Recommended striking a sentence in Section 5.13 Commercial Goals and Policies
• Recommended replacing 'TC and NC Designations' with 'Town Center and Commercial Zoning Designations' in LU Goal 10
• Directed staff to schedule a public hearing for December 2
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

City Council

The City Council held a work session to review the 2022 preliminary budget, focusing on revenue sources and a possible property tax increase. Finance Director Miller explained that property tax funds are dedicated to public safety and discussed the 1% cap increase, which would yield $21,053. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and adjourned without voting on the budget or tax increase.

• Adjourned special meeting (6-0)

City Council

The Black Diamond City Council approved Resolution No. 21-1447, authorizing the mayor to execute an addendum to the interlocal agreement with South Correctional Entity (SCORE) for inmate housing in 2022. The vote was unanimous (7-0). The council also approved the consent agenda as amended, which included claims, minutes, and a resolution with Valley Communications, but removed one item for separate discussion. A public hearing on the 2022 preliminary budget and possible property tax increase was opened and closed with no public comments.

• Approved Resolution No. 21-1447 authorizing mayor to execute 2022 SCORE inmate housing addendum (7-0)
• Adopted consent agenda as amended, removing item AB21-066 (5-2)
• Approved claims checks totaling $270,195.14
• Approved minutes from October 14 and October 21 meetings
• Approved Resolution AB21-067, yearly addendum to agreement with Valley Communications
• Removed Resolution AB21-068 (2021 Citywide Asphalt Overlays) from agenda
• Removed item AB21-066 from consent agenda for separate discussion
• Opened and closed public hearing on 2022 preliminary budget with no comments

City Council

The Enumclaw School Board held a joint work study session with the Enumclaw and Black Diamond city councils, featuring presentations from the school district and both cities. No formal decisions or votes were taken; the meeting was informational only.

• No formal decisions or votes were recorded during the work study session

City Council

The City Council held a work session to review the 2022 preliminary budgets for public works, capital projects, special revenue, and internal service funds. No formal decisions were made; the session was informational, with staff highlighting revenue sources, expenditures, and proposed adjustments such as increasing the gym floor replacement project to $80,000 and adding $10,000 to CIP #714. The meeting adjourned with a 5-0 vote.

• Reviewed 2022 preliminary budgets for streets, water, sewer, stormwater, and capital projects (no vote)
• Noted gym floor replacement project budget to be changed to $80,000 (proposed)
• Suggested increasing CIP #714 budget by $10,000 (proposed)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Black Diamond Planning Commission voted on a series of comprehensive plan amendments to resolve inconsistencies between the 2019 Future Land Use Map (FLUM) and current zoning. Most staff recommendations were approved, but Inconsistency #3 (rezoning to MDR8) failed on re-vote, and Inconsistency #6 (revert to R-4) failed on a tie. The commission also voted to defer remaining docket items to the next meeting on November 9, 2021.

• Approved Inconsistency #1: Revert parcels to 2009 Business Park & Light Industrial FLUM (6-1)
• Approved Inconsistency #2: Revert parcel to 2009 Business Park/Light Industrial FLUM (4-3 after reconsideration)
• Denied Inconsistency #3: Rezone parcel to MDR8 (3-4 on re-vote)
• Approved Inconsistency #4: Revert parcels to Low Density Residential (R-4) FLUM and zoning (7-0)
• Approved Inconsistency #5: Amend FLUM to Low Density Residential for listed parcels (6-0)
• Denied Inconsistency #6: Revert parcel to R-4 FLUM and zoning (tied 3-3)
• Approved Inconsistency #7: Amend FLUM to Community Commercial for multiple parcels (6-0)
• Approved Consolidations #1-4 and Scrivener's Error #1: Maintain 2019 FLUM and zoning (various votes)

City Council

The City Council held a work session to review the 2022 preliminary general fund budget, with total operating expenditures of $9,480,297 and public safety consuming 49.2% of that amount. Finance Director Miller noted expenditures are projected to increase at a higher rate than revenues, and that Mayor Benson is transferring $2 million in one-time funds to future campus costs. No formal decisions were made; the next budget meeting is scheduled for October 28, 2021.

• Reviewed 2022 preliminary general fund budget (no vote)
• Noted $9,480,297 total general fund operating expenditures
• Noted public safety uses 49.2% of general fund expenditures
• Noted $2 million transfer from one-time funds to future campus costs
• Scheduled next budget meeting for October 28, 2021

City Council

The Black Diamond City Council approved a resolution authorizing the mayor to execute an amended and restated Comprehensive School Mitigation Agreement with the Enumclaw School District and the Master Developer. The council also confirmed Scott Hanis as Public Works Director, effective November 1, 2021. A resolution supporting the dignity of all citizens regardless of vaccination status failed on a 2-5 vote.

• Adopted Resolution No. 21-1445 authorizing the mayor to execute the amended school mitigation agreement (7-0)
• Confirmed Scott Hanis as Public Works Director starting November 1, 2021 (7-0)
• Adopted the consent agenda, including claims, payroll, and a contract amendment (7-0)
• Failed Resolution No. 21-1446 supporting dignity of all citizens regardless of vaccination status (2-5)

City Council

The City Council held a work session to discuss draft 2022 legislative priorities, with members suggesting additions focused on Highway 169 improvements, including widening and designation as a Highway of Significance. No formal decisions were made; the mayor will incorporate suggestions and bring the updated priorities for adoption at the first meeting in December.

• Discussed draft 2022 legislative priorities (no vote)
• Mayor to add Hwy 169 suggestions and adopt at December meeting (no vote)

City Council

The Black Diamond City Council will hold a work session to discuss the 2022 legislative agenda. A separate town hall meeting is also scheduled for an open mic session.

• Discussion regarding 2022 Legislative Agenda
• Town Hall Open Mic

The City Council held a special virtual town hall meeting to hear public comments on the Comprehensive Plan update, including the SE connector, the 288th/Hwy 169 intersection, and pedestrian safety. No formal decisions or votes were made during the meeting; the only action was adjournment, which passed 6-0.

• Adjourned the special town hall meeting (6-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission held a public hearing on amendments to Comprehensive Plan Appendix 7 (Transportation) to reflect an alternative SE Loop Connector route. No decision was made; the commission will review and vote on the item at the October 26 meeting. The minutes also include adoption of prior meeting minutes and a report on the Open Space and Recreation plan.

• Adopted Regular Meeting Minutes of September 7, 2021 (unanimous)
• Adopted Special Meeting Minutes of September 21, 2021 (unanimous)
• Held public hearing on SE Loop Connector route amendment; no vote taken
• Denied point of order to recuse Commissioner McCain (not well-taken)

City Council

The Council adopted Ordinance No. 21-1165, adding Chapter 3.80 to the municipal code for transportation impact fees and adopting the Parametrix rate study, excluding items G, H, and I. The vote was 7-0. Council members wanted more time to discuss proposed exemptions for low-income, early learning facilities, and accessory dwelling units, and agreed to hold a special meeting on November 18 at 5:30 p.m. to consider them. The consent agenda, including claim checks totaling $484,166.75 and prior meeting minutes, was also approved.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 21-1165 adding Chapter 3.80 (Transportation Impact Fees) and the Parametrix rate study, excluding items G, H, and I (7-0).
• Approved the consent agenda, including claim checks (Check No. 50475-50521, $484,166.75) and minutes from September 9 and September 16 meetings (6-0).
• Approved the meeting agenda (6-0).
• Scheduled a special meeting for November 18 at 5:30 p.m. to further discuss transportation impact fee exemptions.
• Adjourned the meeting at 8:22 p.m. (7-0).

City Council

The council approved Resolution No. 21-1443, allocating $100,000 in ARPA funds for an economic hardship grant program to assist Black Diamond residents with rent and/or utility bills, and authorizing the mayor to sign an agreement with the Black Diamond Community Center to administer the program. The motion passed unanimously (5-0). The meeting also included a work session reviewing 2021 revenues/expenditures and the preliminary 2022 budget, with no formal decisions made on the budget.

• Approved Resolution No. 21-1443 allocating $100,000 for rent/utility assistance (5-0)
• Authorized mayor to sign agreement with Black Diamond Community Center to administer the grant program (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission held a work session to deliberate on four Comprehensive Plan docket items, reaching consensus on staff recommendations for each. They approved moving policy ED 4.5 to the Transportation Chapter, adding a policy for an ecological inventory, adding a policy to analyze marijuana business siting, and supported most staff recommendations on FLUM and zoning inconsistencies, including reverting to the 2009 FLUM for several parcels. They also agreed to hold an additional public hearing on the SE Loop Connector at the October 12 meeting.

• Consensus to move policy ED 4.5 to the Transportation Chapter as Policy T-26.
• Consensus to add Policy NE-6 for an ecological inventory, with revisions to wording.
• Consensus to add Policy LU-50 to analyze marijuana retail business siting.
• Consensus to support staff recommendations on FLUM inconsistencies, including reverting to 2009 FLUM for several items.
• Consensus to support staff recommendations on consolidations, scrivener's errors, undesignated parcels, and zoning map errors.
• Consensus to remove the TDR layer from the FLUM map and create a separate map.
• Consensus to hold an additional public hearing on the SE Loop Connector at the October 12 meeting.

City Council

The City Council held a work session to discuss possible uses for 2022 ARPA funds, including rent/utility assistance, a watermain upgrade, and COVID-related costs. Finance Director Miller presented a worksheet and suggested not using ARPA funds for COVID costs. No formal decision was made; the discussion was continued to the regular meeting at 7 p.m. The meeting adjourned with a unanimous vote (6-0).

• Adjourned the special meeting (6-0)

City Council

The Black Diamond City Council approved several items, including allocating between $100,000 and $165,000 of ARPA funds to the Black Diamond Community Center for rent and utility assistance, authorizing a new fire services contract with Mountainview Fire & Rescue, and amending the 2021 salary schedule (adding two positions) and the 2019-2024 Capital Improvement Plan. The consent agenda, including claims and payroll, was also approved. All votes were 6-0 except for the salary and CIP amendments, which passed 4-2.

• Approved agenda amendment to add ARPA discussion and adopted amended agenda (6-0).
• Adopted consent agenda including claims ($441,106.82), payroll ($439,824.37), and minutes (6-0).
• Adopted Ordinance No. 21-1164 amending 2021 salary schedule and authorizing two additional positions (4-2).
• Approved resolution amending 2019-2024 Capital Improvement Plan (4-2).
• Approved Resolution No. 21-1442 authorizing Mayor to execute fire services contract with Mountainview Fire & Rescue (6-0).
• Authorized $100,000–$165,000 of ARPA funds to Black Diamond Community Center for rent/utility assistance (6-0).
• Adjourned meeting at 9:57 p.m. (6-0).

City Council

The Black Diamond City Council held a work session to discuss a potential fireworks ban within city limits. No formal decision was made; the council debated enforcement challenges, insurance concerns, and possible solutions, including an advisory vote in August 2022. The matter was referred back to the Public Safety Committee for further discussion.

• Discussed fireworks ban, no action taken
• Referred fireworks discussion to Public Safety Committee
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Black Diamond Planning Commission held public hearings on four Comprehensive Plan amendment topics—moving policy ED-4.5, conducting an ecological inventory feasibility study, repealing marijuana business prohibitions, and reconsidering the 2019 Future Land Use Map—but took no final action. All items were continued to a September 21 special meeting for further discussion and deliberation. The commission also adopted minutes from three prior meetings.

• Adopted June 8, 2021 regular meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted August 10, 2021 regular meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted August 24, 2021 special meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Held public hearing on moving policy ED-4.5 to Transportation Chapter; no action taken
• Held public hearing on ecological inventory feasibility study; no action taken
• Held public hearing on repealing marijuana business prohibitions; no action taken
• Held public hearing on 2019 FLUM reconsideration; no action taken
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

City Council

The Black Diamond City Council approved the purchase of GIS software and associated hardware, and authorized the mayor to execute a special event permit for Tough Mudder. A public hearing on proposed amendments to the Capital Improvement Plan was held, but adoption was deferred to a future meeting. The consent agenda, including claim checks and prior meeting minutes, was approved.

• Approved agenda (6-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including claim checks totaling $192,082.90 (6-0)
• Approved Resolution No. 21-1439 authorizing purchase of ArcGIS software and hardware (6-0)
• Approved Resolution No. 21-1440 authorizing Tough Mudder special event permit (6-0)
• Public hearing on Capital Improvement Plan amendments held; adoption deferred to future meeting

Planning Commission

The Black Diamond Planning Commission held a special meeting on August 24, 2021, with no public hearings, unfinished business, or new business. The main agenda item was a study/work session presentation by Senior Planner Joey Portmann on the Future Land Use Map (FLUM) and zoning, covering background, inconsistencies, scriveners' errors, and discussion points. No formal decisions or votes were taken on substantive matters; the only vote was to adjourn the meeting, which passed 7-0.

• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

City Council

The City Council approved a five-year contract with Axon for police body-worn cameras and a copier lease for the police department. A public hearing on a proposed transportation impact fee was held, with action deferred to September 2. The consent agenda, including payments and contract amendments, was approved.

• Approved Axon body camera contract (7-0)
• Approved copier lease for police department (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including claims, payroll, and contract amendments (6-0)
• Confirmed Knut Syversen to Planning Commission (6-0)
• Held public hearing on transportation impact fee; no action taken

City Council

The Black Diamond City Council held a work session to discuss new police-related state legislation and its impacts on the community. No formal decisions were made; the session was informational, with Police Chief Kiblinger reviewing several new laws and leading a discussion on how to support the department and engage residents. The meeting adjourned with a unanimous vote.

• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission held a public hearing on proposed amendments to Comprehensive Plan Appendix 7 (Transportation) to consider an alternative SE Loop Connector Route, but took no action. The hearing was for public input only, with staff and the applicant (Oakpointe) clarifying that no final decision has been made. The commission also approved the July 13, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0) and discussed upcoming work sessions and public hearings.

• Approved July 13, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Held public hearing on SE Loop Connector Route alternatives; no action taken
• Rescheduled ecological inventory public hearing to September 7, 2021

City Council

The Black Diamond City Council approved a professional services agreement with Grindline Skateparks for design and engineering of the Skatepark project (Resolution 21-1434, 6-0). It also adopted Ordinance 21-1163 amending the municipal code relating to senior housing (5-1, with O'Donnell dissenting). The consent agenda, including a $271,702.61 claim check batch and a $437,968.16 payroll, was approved unanimously.

• Approved Resolution 21-1434 authorizing contract with Grindline Skateparks for skatepark design and engineering (6-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 21-1163 amending BDMC Section 18.100.655 on senior housing (5-1, O'Donnell dissenting)
• Approved consent agenda including claim checks ($271,702.61), payroll ($437,968.16), and minutes (6-0)
• Approved agenda as presented (6-0)

City Council

The Black Diamond City Council met in a special session on July 15, 2021, and immediately entered an executive session to discuss potential litigation with legal counsel, as permitted under RCW 42.30.110(1)(i). The session lasted about one hour, and no formal decisions or actions were taken. The meeting adjourned at approximately 7:01 p.m.

• Held executive session for potential litigation discussion, no action taken
• Adjourned the special meeting at approximately 7:01 p.m.

City Council

The council approved a $694,738.13 construction contract with R.W. Scott Construction Co. for the Morganville South Watermain Replacement project, including a $39,500 contingency and a budget appropriation of about $234,438. It also accepted federal ARPA funds and established a new ARPA Fiscal Recovery Fund. A contract for the Springs Transmission Main Replacement project was tabled to the August 5 meeting. All other agenda items, including the consent agenda, were approved unanimously.

• Approved $694,738.13 contract with R.W. Scott Construction Co. for Morganville South Watermain Replacement (6-1)
• Approved $39,500 contingency and $234,438 budget appropriation for watermain project (6-1)
• Accepted ARPA funds and established ARPA Fiscal Recovery Fund (7-0)
• Tabled Springs Transmission Main Replacement contract to August 5 meeting (7-0)
• Adopted 2022 budget planning calendar (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including claims, minutes, and four resolutions (7-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission voted 4-2 to recommend amending the senior housing code to lower the minimum age from 65 to 55 and forward it to City Council. A prior motion to change the age to 55 failed 3-3, and a motion for age 62 failed for lack of a second. The commission did not forward the Fences, Hedges and Walls code amendments to City Council, as no motion was made.

• Recommended senior housing age change from 65 to 55 to City Council (4-2)
• Motion to change senior housing age to 55 failed (3-3)
• Motion to change senior housing age to 62 failed (no second)
• Fences, Hedges and Walls code amendments not forwarded to City Council (no motion)
• Added extra meetings on Aug 24, Sep 21, Oct 26 (6-0)

City Council

The Black Diamond City Council held a special meeting on July 12, 2021, primarily to enter an executive session to discuss potential litigation with legal counsel, as permitted under RCW 42.30.110(1)(i). The session lasted from 8:09 p.m. to 9:25 p.m., with two extensions, and no action was taken afterward. The meeting adjourned with a unanimous 6-0 vote.

• Held executive session on potential litigation (no action taken)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

City Council

The City Council discussed a proposed Transportation Impact Fee ordinance and the related study. Council reached consensus to have the city attorney draft language for a provision regarding early learning facilities. They also agreed to hold a public hearing on the ordinance at the August 19 Council meeting. No formal vote was taken on the ordinance itself.

• Consensus to direct the city attorney to draft language for an early learning facilities provision in the ordinance.
• Consensus to schedule a public hearing on the ordinance for the August 19 Council meeting.
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:15 p.m. by a 5-0 vote.

City Council

The City Council held a special retreat to discuss three major issues: the city's capacity to address future challenges, its economic base, and the Council's role in governing. No formal votes or binding decisions were made; the meeting was a discussion and planning session. Key agreements included the urgent need for a succession plan, the first step of hiring a City Administrator, and the need for a long-term facilities plan.

• Agreed that a succession plan is an urgent need to right-size staffing and prepare for future departures
• Agreed that hiring a City Administrator is the first step toward matching resources to future needs
• Agreed on the need for a long-term facilities plan, possibly funded with federal funds
• Discussed expanding the economic base, including reducing sales tax leakage and updating zoning along Highway 169
• Discussed potential new revenue sources, including marijuana sales and a B&O tax
• Agreed to consider Mayor Benson's six goals as a starting point for a shared vision, with possible additions of accountability and inclusiveness
• Discussed adding monthly Council work session items to follow up on retreat topics

City Council

The City Council approved the 2022-2027 Six Year Transportation Improvement Plan, amended to include specific projects such as Sawyer Woods and Black Diamond Elementary safe routes to school, and a pedestrian safety project. The Council also adopted the Housing Action Plan and amended the 2021 salary schedule for seasonal utility workers. All motions passed unanimously (7-0).

• Approved the 2022-2027 Six Year Transportation Improvement Plan with amendments (7-0).
• Adopted Resolution No. 21-1426 for the Housing Action Plan (7-0).
• Adopted Ordinance No. 21-1161 amending the 2021 Salary Schedule for Seasonal Utility Worker (7-0).
• Approved the consent agenda, including claims, payroll, and minutes (7-0).

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission voted to move two code amendment items forward to a public hearing scheduled for June 22, 2021. The first item would lower the senior housing age requirement from 65 to 55 years old. The second item would update the fences, hedges, and walls code, including adding hedges to the regulations. Both items will be considered at the special meeting.

• Approved motion to include Senior Housing Definition amendment in public hearing (6-0)
• Approved motion to include Fences and Hedges Code Amendment in public hearing (5-1, Ambur dissenting)
• Approved minutes of May 11, 2021 regular meeting (4-0)

City Council

The Council approved the 2021 Comprehensive Plan docket (Resolution No. 21-1424) by a 4-3 vote, with Councilmembers Deady, Mulvihill, de Leon, and Page in favor, and Oglesbee, Wisnoski, and O'Donnell opposed. The Council also unanimously adopted the Consent Agenda, including claim checks totaling $298,028.49, and approved a $5,000 Port of Seattle grant for downtown vacant property enhancement. Public comments focused on pedestrian safety and requests to add specific projects to the Transportation Improvement Plan, but no amendments were made.

• Adopted 2021 Comprehensive Plan docket (Resolution No. 21-1424) (4-3)
• Approved Consent Agenda including claim checks of $298,028.49 (7-0)
• Approved Port of Seattle grant of $5,000 for downtown vacant property (Resolution No. 21-1423) (7-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (7-0)

City Council

The Black Diamond, Covington, and Maple Valley city councils met jointly via Zoom for discussion only. No formal decisions, approvals, or votes were recorded. The meeting included updates from King County and each city, plus discussions on a recreation center feasibility study, the IRONMAN event, and the Highway 19 project.

• No formal decisions or votes recorded during the meeting

City Council

The Black Diamond City Council approved a pass-through King County Metro sewer rate increase of $2.04 per month per ERU effective June 1, 2021, and an ordinance accepting donations for a skate park. They also adopted a resolution amending council rules to include a social media policy. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved Resolution No. 21-1422 increasing KC Metro sewer rate by $2.04/month per ERU effective June 1, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved Ordinance No. 21-1160 accepting skate park donations and establishing a donation fund (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 21-1419 amending Council Rules of Procedure to include a Social Media Policy (5-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including claims, payroll, minutes, final plat for Ten Trails Plat 2E, and contract extension with Pacifica Law Group (5-0)

City Council

The City Council held a public hearing on the proposed Housing Action Plan (AB21-027) and heard comments from residents concerned about growth, traffic safety, and affordable housing commitments. Council deliberated but took no formal action, directing staff to revise the plan's objectives and return with a final document in June. The meeting adjourned with a 7-0 vote.

• Held public hearing on Housing Action Plan AB21-027 (no vote)
• Deliberated on Housing Action Plan objectives, no formal action taken
• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission held a public hearing and voted on 23 proposed amendments to the 2021 Comprehensive Plan Preliminary Docket. The Commission recommended 10 items to move forward to the City Council for final docket approval, including a combined item to reconsider the 2019 Future Land Use Map (FLUM) with possible reversion to the 2009 map. Several items were not recommended due to lack of information, funding, or because similar processes were already in place.

• Recommended 2021-01: Reversion to the 2009 Future Land Use Map (FLUM) to City Council (7-0)
• Recommended 2021-02: Alternative SE Loop Connector Route study to City Council (7-0)
• Recommended 2021-03: Harmonizing FLUM and City Zoning Regulations to City Council (7-0)
• Recommended 2021-04: Housing Chapter update with Housing Action Plan to City Council (6-1)
• Recommended 2021-05: Parks Chapter update with PROS Plan to City Council (7-0)
• Recommended 2021-06: Repeal marijuana business prohibitions to City Council (6-1)
• Recommended 2021-07: Review ADU and short-term rental regulations to City Council (7-0)
• Recommended 2021-08: Feasibility study for ecological inventory to City Council (6-1)

City Council

The Black Diamond City Council approved the consent agenda, which included resolutions for the 2021 City-Wide Overlays Project, a payment to Rainier Foothills Wellness Foundation, purchase of a replacement police vehicle, and a professional services agreement with Peninsula Financial. The council also discussed a social media policy but tabled it for revisions. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved consent agenda including $198,716.22 in claim checks (7-0)
• Approved resolution awarding 2021 City-Wide Overlays Project (7-0)
• Approved resolution for payment to Rainier Foothills Wellness Foundation (7-0)
• Approved resolution authorizing purchase of replacement police vehicle (7-0)
• Approved professional services agreement with Peninsula Financial (7-0)
• Tabled social media policy resolution for revised version at next meeting

City Council

The Black Diamond City Council held a special meeting and unanimously adopted Ordinance No. 21-1159, amending Chapter 19.04 of the municipal code related to State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) procedures. The motion was made by Councilmember de Leon and seconded by Councilmember Deady, passing 7-0. No public comments were made, and the meeting adjourned shortly after.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 21-1159 amending SEPA procedures (7-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (7-0)

City Council

The Black Diamond City Council held a special town hall meeting on April 22, 2021, with all seven members present. The meeting was primarily a discussion session with no formal votes or decisions taken. Topics included the city's pump track, sidewalk and bike path planning, fire service, Oakpointe communication, and social media policies. The only action was a unanimous vote to adjourn.

• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

City Council

The Black Diamond City Council approved an ordinance amending the municipal code regarding sensitive areas, with all six present members voting in favor. The consent agenda, including claims, payroll, minutes, and a salary schedule amendment, was also approved unanimously. No other substantive decisions were made; the rest of the meeting consisted of reports and announcements.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 21-1158 amending Municipal Code Chapter 19.10 on sensitive areas (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including claims of $888,142.83, payroll of $393,158.30, minutes, and salary schedule amendment (6-0)

City Council

The council discussed potential marijuana tax revenue and code updates, reaching consensus to start the process of gathering information and hearing from citizens. Mayor Benson will task the Community Development Director and City Attorney to make code changes and move forward to the Planning Commission. The council also discussed long-term facility planning, agreeing to consider hiring a consultant and forming an ad hoc committee, with a timeline to be brought back in May. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Consensus to start the process on marijuana tax revenue opportunities, including code changes and public input
• Mayor Benson to task Community Development Director and City Attorney to make code changes and move to Planning Commission
• Discussed long-term facility planning, including hiring a consultant and forming an ad hoc committee
• Mayor Benson to have Mr. Williamson prepare a timeline for facility planning and bring back in May
• Adjourned the meeting at 8:15 p.m. (motion passed 7-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission approved edits to its Rules and Regulations, including adding a phrase allowing meetings via video conference, changing cancellation notice requirements, adding 'New Business' to the order of business, and removing a limit on speakers per topic. The commission also received updates on the Housing Action Plan, PROs Plan, and docket items, but made no decisions on those topics.

• Approved adding 'Meetings may also be conducted via video conference when appropriate' to Section 1, Regular Meetings (motion passed 6-0).
• Approved changing 'or' to 'and' and adding '/Community Development Director or Designee' in Section 1, Cancellation (motion passed 6-0).
• Approved adding 'G. New Business' to Section 9, Order of Business (motion passed 6-0).
• Approved striking 'and no more than 3 speakers on any one topic' from Section 9, Public Comment (motion passed 6-0).
• Approved minutes of the March 9, 2021 Regular Meeting (motion passed 6-0).
• Approved minutes of the March 9, 2021 Joint Special Meeting (motion passed 6-0).
• Adjourned the meeting at 6:55 p.m. (motion passed 6-0).

City Council

The Black Diamond City Council appointed Leih Mulvihill to Position 4 and Debbie Page to Position 7, effective immediately, and administered the Oath of Office. The council also approved a $10,000 contribution to the Rainier Foothills Wellness Foundation for in-school mental health counseling, and adopted resolutions for collective bargaining agreements and a mine hazard assessment contract.

• Appointed Leih Mulvihill to Council Position 4 and Debbie Page to Council Position 7 (4-0)
• Approved $10,000 for in-school mental health counseling program (6-0)
• Adopted Consent Agenda including claim checks totaling $211,158.73 and minutes from prior meetings (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution AB21-016 for Professional Unit Collective Bargaining Agreement (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution AB21-017 for Public Works/Admin Support Collective Bargaining Agreement (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 21-1414 authorizing Professional Services Agreement with Icicle Creek Engineers for mine hazard assessment (6-0)

City Council

The Black Diamond City Council held a work session to continue discussing fire service options, including property tax mechanics and the feasibility of a Regional Fire Authority. Council reached consensus to have the mayor form a team to negotiate a contract with Mountain View Fire & Rescue and to investigate annexation and its affordability. No formal votes were taken on the fire service direction; the only motion was to adjourn, which passed 5-0.

• Consensus to have mayor form a team to negotiate contract with Mountain View Fire & Rescue
• Consensus to investigate annexation and when it would be affordable
• Motion to adjourn passed (5-0)

City Council

The Black Diamond City Council held a special meeting that consisted solely of a closed session to discuss collective bargaining under RCW 42.30.140(4). No public participation was allowed and no action was taken following the session. The meeting was then adjourned with a unanimous 6-0 vote.

• Held a closed session to discuss collective bargaining pursuant to RCW 42.30.140(4).
• Adjourned the special meeting with a unanimous 6-0 vote.

City Council

The City Council approved a professional services agreement with Parametrix, Inc. for the design of the Covington Creek Culvert Replacement Project. The council also held a public hearing on the closed skateboard park, discussing interim solutions. Councilmember Stout resigned, and a special meeting on fire services was set for March 29.

• Approved Resolution No. 21-1411 authorizing the Mayor to execute a Professional Services Agreement with Parametrix, Inc. for the design of the Covington Creek Culvert Replacement Project (6-0).
• Adopted the Consent Agenda, including claim checks totaling $537,979.36 and February payroll of $448,529.82 (6-0).
• Held a public hearing on the skateboard park; no formal action taken, but discussion included interim solutions.
• Councilmember Stout resigned from the Council, effective immediately.
• Set a special meeting for March 29 at 6:00 p.m. to discuss fire service options.

City Council

The City Council held a work session to continue discussing fire service options, with presentations on fiscal impacts for four scenarios: continuing the MVFD contract, forming a city fire department, annexing to MVFD, or annexing to PS RFA. No formal decisions were made; the council agreed to schedule further discussion on the options.

• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission elected John Olson as Chair and Pam McCain as Vice Chair for the upcoming term. The meeting was otherwise procedural, with no public comments, hearings, or substantive business items discussed.

• Elected John Olson as Chair (7-0)
• Elected Pam McCain as Vice Chair (6-1)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission and City Council held a joint special meeting to discuss the draft Housing Action Plan (HAP) with consultant Blueline. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was a work session to gather input. Over 130 citizen surveys have been returned and will inform the final HAP, which will go to the City Council for approval.

• No formal decisions made; meeting was a work session on the Housing Action Plan
• Discussed HAP strategic objectives: monitoring housing needs, increasing housing diversity, preventing displacement, and creating opportunities
• Requested Blueline to cite the source for the 30% cost-burdened threshold
• Clarified that Ten Trails is included in HAP data under the name 'The Villages'

City Council

The City Council unanimously approved an ordinance regulating paddlecraft during speeding hours on Lake Sawyer. The Council also determined that a SEPA appeal filed by Stop Black Diamond Rezone was timely and scheduled an open-record hearing for April 1, with deadlines for briefs and exhibits. Two councilmembers announced resignations.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 21-1156 amending paddlecraft rules on Lake Sawyer (7-0)
• Determined SEPA appeal filed timely and set hearing for April 1 (7-0)
• Set March 18 deadline for appellant's brief and exhibits, March 25 for city's (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including claims of $117,233.44 (7-0)
• Added SEPA appeal preliminary matters to agenda (7-0)

City Council

The City Council approved a funding agreement with the King County Flood Control District for the Covington Creek Culvert Replacement project, and authorized a professional services agreement with architects for City Hall tenant improvements. A third agreement for a council planning retreat was also approved. The council discussed but took no action on a comprehensive school mitigation agreement.

• Approved Resolution 21-1408 accepting King County Flood Control District funds for Covington Creek Culvert Replacement (7-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-1409 authorizing architect agreement with Rasmussen/Triebelhorn for City Hall improvements (6-1, Oglesbee opposed)
• Approved Resolution 21-1410 authorizing Falconer Group agreement for 2021 Council Planning Retreat (7-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including claims, payroll, and prior meeting minutes (7-0)

City Council

The City Council held a work session with no formal votes or decisions. They discussed a social media policy framework and received an update on the new fire station design. No action was taken on either item.

• No formal decisions made during work session
• Discussed social media policy framework
• Received fire station design update

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission approved the December 1, 2020 special meeting minutes (5-0) and approved the December 8, 2020 regular meeting minutes (4-1) after rejecting an amendment proposed by Commissioner Ambur to change wording about lowering level of service standards (rejected 3-2). No public hearings or substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting focused on staff introductions, the 2021 work plan, and updates on the Comprehensive Plan and Housing Action Plan.

• Approved December 1, 2020 special meeting minutes (5-0)
• Rejected amendment to December 8, 2020 minutes regarding level of service wording (3-2)
• Approved December 8, 2020 regular meeting minutes as amended (4-1)

City Council

The Black Diamond City Council met in special session and immediately entered a closed session to discuss collective bargaining under RCW 42.30.140(4). No public participation or action followed the closed session. The meeting was then adjourned with a unanimous 6-0 vote. No substantive decisions were made.

• Held closed session on collective bargaining (no action taken)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

City Council

The Black Diamond City Council approved an interlocal agreement with King County for jail services, along with routine items like claims and committee appointments. Councilmembers also discussed COVID-19 precautions, the Capitol breach, and community concerns. No public hearings or unfinished business were held.

• Adopted agenda (7-0)
• Appointed Councilmember Oglesbee as Mayor Pro Tempore for 2021 (7-0)
• Confirmed Mayor's standing committee appointments with O'Donnell on Public Works (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including claims of $156,639.03 and Dec. 17 minutes (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 21-1404 authorizing jail services interlocal agreement with King County (7-0)
• Adjourned at 8:23 p.m. (7-0)