Gig Harbor public meetings in 2021
181 substantive meetings from 2021, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
City Council Committees
The Board & Commission Candidate Review Committee is holding a special meeting to interview three candidates for the Design Review Board. The agenda includes only the interviews and standard procedural items.
- Interview of James Morgan for Design Review Board
- Interview of Vicky Alsaker for Design Review Board
- Interview of Dave Christian for Design Review Board
City Council Committees
The Gig Harbor Finance and Safety Committee is meeting to discuss a retail theft ordinance and an OSHA report. The retail theft ordinance follows an earlier presentation on shoplifting and aims to involve businesses in crime prevention. The meeting is open to the public online.
- Retail Theft Ordinance discussion
- OSHA Report review
The committee reviewed a proposed retail theft ordinance and the 2021 OSHA report. No formal legislative actions or votes were taken during this meeting. The committee also noted that a report on fireworks was rescheduled for March 2022.
- Approved October 25, 2021 meeting minutes
- Rescheduled fireworks report to March 21, 2022
Planning Commission
The Gig Harbor Planning Commission is meeting to discuss the Urban Growth Area Analysis as the main agenda item. The meeting will also include approval of the minutes from the December 2, 2021 meeting. The public can participate remotely via Zoom or phone.
- Urban Growth Area Analysis discussion
- Approval of minutes from December 2, 2021
The Planning Commission approved the December 2, 2021 minutes as written, with all commissioners in favor. The main agenda item was a presentation on Urban Growth Area Analysis by Andrew Bjorn of Berk Consulting, followed by commission discussion; the minutes record no decision on that item. The next meeting was set for Thursday, January 20, 2021, with no meeting on January 6, 2021, and the meeting adjourned at 6:53 p.m.
- Approved December 2, 2021 minutes as written (all in favor)
- Heard Urban Growth Area Analysis presentation from Andrew Bjorn of Berk Consulting; no decision recorded
- Adjourned at 6:53 p.m. (all in favor)
City Council Committees
The Gig Harbor Public Works Committee will meet to discuss two new business items: an update on the Emergency Water Intertie project on Canterwood Blvd and Well #9 water rights and mitigation. The committee will also review the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) schedule. Public comment is limited to designated portions of the meeting.
- Emergency Water Intertie – Canterwood Blvd project update
- Well #9 water rights and mitigation discussion
- CIP review
- Approval of November 9, 2021 minutes
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council is meeting for a special session. The only substantive item is an executive session to discuss selecting a site or acquiring real estate by lease or purchase, held behind closed doors under state law to avoid affecting the price. No other business is on the agenda.
- Executive session on real estate site selection or acquisition per RCW 42.30.110(b)
City Council Committees
The Board & Commission Candidate Review Committee is holding a special meeting to interview five candidates for the Parks Commission. The committee will also approve minutes from its November 8 meeting, where it recommended Lindsey Stover for a Lodging Tax Advisory Committee vacancy and recommended removing Doug Terrien from the Parks Commission due to attendance issues.
- Interviews for Parks Commission: Amanda Babich, Georgina Armstrong, Joe Buckley, Stephanie Lile, Stace Gordon
- Approval of November 8, 2021 minutes
- Previous recommendation: Lindsey Stover for LTAC vacancy
- Previous recommendation: removal of Doug Terrien from Parks Commission
The Board and Commission Candidate Review Committee interviewed five candidates for two open seats on the Parks Commission. The committee unanimously recommended two individuals for appointment.
- Approved November 8, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
- Recommended Stephanie Lile for appointment to the Parks Commission (unanimous)
- Recommended Georgina Armstrong for appointment to the Parks Commission (unanimous)
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council will hold second readings and adoptions of ordinances updating the 2021 Comprehensive Plan and parks-related codes, plus a public hearing on vacating a portion of Hall Street. New business includes a rezone for McCormick Creek Phase III, an ADA transition plan, and several public works contracts. The consent agenda covers routine approvals, including a $1.84 million voucher payment and a $464,388 payroll.
- Ordinance 1477: 2021 Comprehensive Plan amendment (second reading/adoption)
- Ordinance 1478: Updating parks-related codes (second reading/adoption)
- Ordinance 1479: Vacating a portion of Hall Street (public hearing)
- Ordinance 1480: McCormick Creek Phase III rezone from R-1 to PRD
- Vouchers totaling $1,840,806.49 and payroll of $464,388.00
The Gig Harbor City Council approved a 13-item consent agenda, adopted Ordinance 1477 adding an Arts & Culture Element to the Comprehensive Plan (6-1), and adopted Ordinance 1478 setting hours at Ancich Waterfront Park (unanimous). It approved Ordinance 1479 vacating a portion of Hall Street (6-1) and Ordinance 1480 rezoning McCormick Creek Phase III from R-1 to PRD (5-2). A motion to approve an MOU with the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife for Ancich Park advanced mitigation failed for lack of a second, and staff said they will prepare a resolution to reject all bids on the related public works contract.
- Approved 13-item consent agenda, including payroll of $464,388.00 and vouchers of $1,840,806.49 (unanimous)
- Adopted Ordinance 1477 creating an Arts & Culture Element in the Comprehensive Plan (6-1, Franich opposed)
- Adopted Ordinance 1478 setting Ancich Waterfront Park hours until 6:00 p.m. or dusk, whichever is later (unanimous)
- Approved Ordinance 1479 vacating a portion of Hall Street (6-1, Franich opposed)
- Approved Resolution 1227 amending Resolution 601 on Sister City policy (unanimous)
- Approved Ordinance 1480 rezoning McCormick Creek Phase III from R-1 to PRD (5-2, Franich and Abersold opposed)
- Approved Resolution 1226 adopting the ADA Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan for the Public Right-Of-Way (unanimous)
- Authorized purchase of an Air Gap/Break Tank System from PumpTech, LLC for $43,465.60 (unanimous)
Lodging Tax Advisory Committee
The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee will meet to reconsider a grant allocation to the Lavender Farm/APCC Korean ChuSeok Festival as directed by the Council. They will also receive updates on digital advertising ROI, review the lodging tax pace chart, and discuss holiday and winter/spring marketing plans.
- Reconsideration of grant allocation to Lavender Farm / APCC Korean ChuSeok Festival
- Update on ROI from digital ad spend (Datafy/SeeSource & Google Ads)
- Review of Lodging Tax Pace Chart (Nov 2021)
- Review of holiday advertising
- Summer Sounds and Movies in the Park – selection in process
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council and Parks Commission are holding a joint study session to review the draft Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Plan, including results from a November online open house and draft goals and policies. The plan is being developed with consultant Conservation Technix and must be adopted by March 2022. No public comment will be allowed at this meeting.
- Review of draft PROS Plan goals and policies
- Online open house results: 205 responses, top priority is additional paved/shared-use trails (36%)
- Residents prioritize developing existing city-owned park property and acquiring land for trails
- Frequent write-in requests for pickleball courts, aquatic center, and trail extensions (e.g., Cushman Trail north)
- 68% of respondents say city lacks enough parkland for the future
The City Council and Parks Commission met to review the drafting process for the Parks, Recreation and Open Space (PROS) Plan. Consultant Steve Duh presented survey results and outlined the timeline for the plan's adoption, which is scheduled for March. No formal votes or legislative actions were taken during this session.
- Held joint study session on PROS Plan
- Reviewed survey results for PROS Plan
Design Review Board
The Gig Harbor Design Review Board will hold a public hearing and vote on a recommendation for Cedarbrook Dental's remodel of the former Wells Fargo building at 5501 Soundview Dr. The applicant seeks a design alternative to the city's long-wall-plane rule for the north façade. Staff recommends approval, finding the alternative equivalent or superior. The meeting also includes approval of July minutes; the December 23 meeting is cancelled.
- Cedarbrook Dental remodel of former Wells Fargo at 5501 Soundview Dr., Olympic Village Shopping Center
- Design alternative request for north façade wall plane (GHMC 17.99.380(A))
- Staff recommends approval of the alternative design
- Site is legally nonconforming; remodel does not increase nonconformity
- December 23, 2021 meeting cancelled
The Design Review Board recommended that the decision maker accept a design alternative for the Cedarbrook Dental project, a remodel of the former Wells Fargo building at 5501 Soundview Dr. in the Olympic Village Shopping Center. The applicant, DrillnFill Properties, LLC, c/o Peter Elton, seeks to convert the building to a dental office with a minor footprint increase and a new facade, glazing, and staff entrance. The board also approved the July 22, 2021 minutes and adjourned at 6:00 pm. The December 23, 2021 meeting was cancelled.
- Recommended approval of design alternative for Cedarbrook Dental remodel (all in favor)
- Approved July 22, 2021 minutes as written (all in favor)
- Adjourned at 6:00 pm (all in favor)
City Council Committees
The Gig Harbor Planning & Building Committee is meeting to discuss three items: a Downtown Waterfront Alliance parking study, a county-wide planning policy update, and employment growth targets. No final decisions are listed on the agenda; these appear to be discussion items. The meeting is held remotely via Zoom due to public health concerns.
- Downtown Waterfront Alliance Parking Study discussion
- County-Wide Planning Policy Update
- Employment Growth Target Discussion
- Approval of October 4, 2021 meeting minutes
The Planning & Building Committee met on December 6, 2021 and approved its October 4, 2021 minutes as amended to correct name spellings. The committee then received presentations and held discussion on a Downtown Waterfront Alliance parking study, a county-wide planning policy update, and an employment growth target discussion. No decisions or votes on those agenda items are recorded in the minutes. The meeting adjourned at 4:35 p.m., with the next meeting listed as Monday, February 7, 2021.
- Approved October 4, 2021 minutes as amended to correct name spellings (all in favor)
- Adjourned the meeting (all in favor)
Planning Commission
The Gig Harbor Planning Commission is meeting to approve the minutes from November 18, 2021, and to discuss the 2022 budget. The meeting is held remotely due to public health concerns. No other substantive items are on the agenda.
- Approval of minutes from November 18, 2021
- Discussion of 2022 budget
The commission approved the minutes from the November 18, 2021, meeting. The session included discussions regarding the Open Public Meeting Act and the 2022 Budget, but no formal decisions were recorded on those items.
- Approved November 18, 2021 minutes (all in favor)
Parks Commission
The Gig Harbor Parks Commission will hold a regular meeting with a presentation from Mayor Kit Kuhn on conservation property acquisition. The commission will also receive updates on the PROS Plan and a parks update from the Public Works Director, along with committee reports and public comment.
- Presentation on Conservation Property Acquisition by Mayor Kit Kuhn
- PROS Plan Update
- Parks Update Report by Public Works Director Jeff Langhelm
- Approval of October 6, 2021 minutes
The Gig Harbor Parks Commission approved its November 3, 2021 minutes with a spelling correction and received a presentation from Mayor Kit Kuhn on a proposed purchase of six parcels totaling 23.9 acres for conservation between Burnham Drive and the Cushman Trail. The commission also discussed the PROS Plan Update, including virtual open house results and draft goals and policies, with a joint work study session with City Council set for December 9. No new business was taken up, and the meeting adjourned at 7:22 p.m.
- Approved November 3, 2021 minutes as amended to correct spelling of Vicki Diamond's name (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting at 7:22 p.m. (unanimous)
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council will hold public hearings and take action on the 2022 budget (Ordinance 1474), the draft ADA Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan, and Burnham Ridge sewer and water utility extension agreements (Resolution 1223). They will also conduct first readings of ordinances on municipal court codification, temporary suspension of special use provisions, comprehensive plan amendments, and parks code updates, plus set fees for boat rack rentals. The consent agenda includes hiring a parks manager above salary midpoint, an agreement with FISH Food Bank, street light purchases, and voucher approvals totaling $855,479.96.
- Public hearing and adoption of Ordinance 1474, the 2022 budget
- Public hearing on draft ADA Self-Evaluation and Transition Planning Program
- Resolution 1223: Burnham Ridge sewer and water utility extension agreements
- Resolution 1222: fees for public rental of Ancich human powered craft storage racks
- Consent agenda: $855,479.96 in vouchers, parks manager hire, FISH Food Bank agreement
The City Council adopted the 2022 budget and approved a plan to demolish the Jerkovich Pier as part of an advanced mitigation project. Council members also approved lodging tax funding recommendations, established rental fees for craft storage at Ancich Waterfront Park, and authorized the hiring of a new Parks Manager above the salary midpoint. No action was taken on a proposed ordinance regarding the temporary suspension of special use provisions.
- Adopted 2022 Budget via Ordinance 1474 (Unanimous)
- Approved $2M transfer for Well #9 development (5-2)
- Approved Jerkovich Pier demolition plan (Unanimous)
- Authorized hiring Parks Manager above salary midpoint (6-0)
- Approved Resolution 1224 for lodging tax funding (Unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 1222 for Ancich storage rack fees (6-1)
- Approved Resolution 1223 for utility extensions (4-1)
Planning Commission
The Gig Harbor Planning Commission will hold a study session on the Urban Growth Area analysis. The meeting includes approval of the November 4 minutes and scheduling the next meeting for December 2.
- Urban Growth Area Analysis study session
- Approval of November 4, 2021 minutes
- Next meeting scheduled for December 2, 2021
The Planning Commission approved the November 4, 2021 minutes as written and held a study session on the Urban Growth Area Analysis, with a presentation from Berk Consulting and commission discussion. No other substantive decisions were recorded. The meeting adjourned at 7:13 PM, with the next meeting set for Thursday, December 2, 2021.
- Approved November 4, 2021 minutes as written (all in favor)
- Held Urban Growth Area Analysis study session with Berk Consulting presentation and discussion (no vote recorded)
- Adjourned meeting at 7:13 PM (all in favor)
City Council
The City Council will hold a study session to review a proposed update to the stormwater utility revenue structure. Staff will discuss potential new billing categories for single-family residential units and implementation options for commercial customers.
- Review of draft update to GHMC 14.10 regarding stormwater billing
- Discussion of partitioning single-family residential units into two or three categories based on hard surface amount
- Discussion of revenue structure adjustments for commercial customers
- Review of equivalent billing unit (EBU) calculations based on 4,400 square feet of hard surface
Arts Commission
The Gig Harbor Arts Commission is holding a special meeting to discuss several items, including an update on the Harbor Arbor Art Project, the Arts & Culture Element of the Comprehensive Plan, the 2022 Creative Endeavor Grant Program, and the 2022 Work Plan. Mayor Kuhn will present on Austin Park Pylon Signage. The meeting is virtual and open to the public.
- Presentation on Austin Park Pylon Signage by Mayor Kuhn
- Update on Harbor Arbor Art Project
- Discussion of Arts & Culture Element of the Gig Harbor Comprehensive Plan
- 2022 Creative Endeavor Grant Program
- 2022 Work Plan Discussion
The Gig Harbor Arts Commission unanimously approved the minutes of its October 13 meeting. Mayor Kuhn presented the installation of interpretive panels at Austin Park and reported on a potential conservation land acquisition opportunity. The commission received updates on the Harbor Arbor Art Project at Grandview Forest Park, due for completion in December, and on the Arts & Culture element of the Comprehensive Plan Update, which a commissioner said would move to Council for approval in December. The commission will discuss the 2022 Creative Endeavor Grant process at its January 12 meeting.
- Approved October 13 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- No vote recorded on the Arts & Culture element; reported as moving to Council in December
- No vote recorded on the 2022 Creative Endeavor Grant process; set for discussion January 12
Lodging Tax Advisory Committee
The Gig Harbor Lodging Tax Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss tourism marketing efforts, including updates on digital ad return on investment, holiday advertising and gift guide review, and a walkthrough of the earned media database. They will also cover winter escape packaging, a planners' familiarization trip, a council recommendation for a new committee member, and details for the December 4 tree lighting and downtown holiday mural.
- Update on ROI from digital ad spend (Datafy/SeeSource)
- Review of holiday advertising and gift guide
- Walkthrough of earned media database (Critical Mention)
- Council recommendation for new LTAC member
- Tree Lighting event on December 4 details
City Council Committees
The Gig Harbor Public Works Committee will review and discuss the draft ADA Transition Plan for public rights-of-way, along with proposed fees for human-powered craft storage at Ancich and utility extension agreements for Burnham Ridge. The committee will also review the Capital Improvement Program. Public comment is allowed.
- Draft ADA Transition Plan presentation by Transportation Solutions, Inc.
- Ancich Human Powered Craft Public Storage Fees
- Burnham Ridge Sewer and Water Utility Extension Agreements
- CIP Review
The Public Works Committee approved its October 12, 2021 minutes and reviewed a draft ADA Transition Plan that identifies 416 non-compliant curb ramps, recommending a dedicated ADA compliance staff position and a report on on-street ADA parking stalls at the November 22, 2021 Council meeting. It also reviewed proposed Ancich paddlecraft storage fees and a Rush Residential request to extend water and sewer utilities to the proposed Burnham Ridge Plat, both of which will go to the full Council on November 22, 2021. No final decisions on these items were made by the committee; the only votes recorded were to approve prior minutes and to adjourn.
- Approved October 12, 2021 Public Works Committee minutes (unanimous)
- Recommended hiring a staff person focused on ADA compliance and removal of 416 non-compliant curb ramps
- Recommended reporting current ADA on-street parking stalls versus PROWAG needs at the November 22, 2021 Council meeting
- Recommended providing comparisons from other jurisdictions on Ancich paddlecraft storage fees
- Forwarded Rush Residential's Burnham Ridge water and sewer extension request to full Council on November 22, 2021
- Adjourned at 4:39 p.m. (unanimous)
City Council
This is a special meeting of the Gig Harbor City Council. The only substantive item is an executive session to discuss potential litigation, which is permitted under state law. No other business is scheduled.
- Executive session on potential litigation (RCW 42.30.110(i))
City Council
The City Council will consider several ordinances and resolutions regarding the 2022 budget, property tax levies, and the Shoreline Master Program. The meeting also includes public hearings on revenue sources and the first reading of the 2022 budget ordinance.
- Public hearing on the 2022 Budget (Ordinance 1474)
- Resolutions 1219 and 1220 regarding 2022 Property Tax and Excess Property Tax Levies
- Adoption of Ordinance 1472 (Shoreline Master Program Periodic Update)
- Adoption of Ordinance 1470 (Design Review Board revisions)
- Approval of $964,173.02 in vouchers and $485,564.63 in October payroll
The Gig Harbor City Council approved a series of items on November 8, 2021, including the 2022 property tax levy, an excess property tax levy, and an ordinance amending the 2021 budget to allow ARPA funds to support FISH Food Bank's new facility construction. The council also approved the 2022 Legislative Agenda, the Shoreline Master Program periodic update, revisions to Design Review Board roster requirements, and a resolution setting a December 13, 2021 public hearing for a Hall Street right-of-way vacation. All votes recorded were unanimous. The 2022 budget was presented and a public hearing held, but the minutes do not record a vote adopting the 2022 budget itself.
- Approved consent agenda including minutes, waste management interlocal agreement, Ordinance 1471 (Municipal Court Judge salary), judge contract, prosecuting attorney agreement, vouchers totaling $964,173.02, and October payroll totaling $485,564.63 (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 1218 adopting the 2022 Legislative Agenda (unanimous)
- Approved Ordinance 1472 updating the Shoreline Master Program (unanimous)
- Approved Ordinance 1470 revising GHMC 2.21 on Design Review Board roster requirements (unanimous)
- Approved Ordinance 1473 amending the 2021 budget to allow ARPA funds for FISH Food Bank facility construction, with amendment limiting funds to building construction (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 1217 setting December 13, 2021 public hearing for Hall Street right-of-way vacation (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 1219 (2022 property tax levy) and Resolution 1220 (2022 excess property tax levy) (unanimous)
- Authorized Mayor to sign purchase and sale agreement per October 18 executive session terms and complete due diligence (unanimous); approved Resolution 1221 to apply for Pierce County Conservation Futures Grant (unanimous)
City Council Committees
The Board & Commission Candidate Review Committee is meeting to interview three candidates for the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee. They will also approve the minutes from the October 11 meeting. The agenda is otherwise procedural.
- Interviews for Lodging Tax Advisory Committee: Miriam Battson, Lindsey Stover, Pat Schmidt
- Approval of October 11, 2021 minutes
The Board and Commission Candidate Review Committee interviewed three candidates for a Lodging Tax Advisory Committee vacancy and unanimously recommended Lindsey Stover for appointment. The committee also recommended removing Doug Terrien from the Parks Commission due to attendance issues. The October 11, 2021 minutes were unanimously approved. Both recommendations are recommendations only; the minutes do not record any final appointment or removal action by the City Council.
- Recommended Lindsey Stover for appointment to the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (unanimous)
- Recommended removal of Doug Terrien from the Parks Commission due to attendance issues
- Approved October 11, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
Planning Commission
The Gig Harbor Planning Commission is holding a public hearing to consider a proposed amendment to the Comprehensive Plan's Arts and Culture element. The meeting includes a staff report, applicant presentation, and public comment. No final decision is indicated on the agenda; it is a formal review item.
- Public hearing on Comprehensive Plan Amendment: Arts and Culture Element
- Public comment allowed via Zoom or phone, with 3-minute speaking limit
- Written comments due by 5 PM November 3, 2021, to [email protected]
- Approval of minutes from October 7, 2021 meeting
The Planning Commission approved the October 7, 2021 meeting minutes and voted to recommend adoption of the Comprehensive Plan Amendment Arts and Culture Element as a standalone element with three specific edits. The meeting adjourned at 7:33 PM.
- Approved October 7, 2021 meeting minutes (All in favor)
- Recommended approval of the Comprehensive Plan Amendment Arts and Culture Element as a standalone element with three edits (5-1, Grina opposed)
Civil Service Commission
The Gig Harbor Civil Service Commission is meeting to approve minutes from its October 8, 2021 meeting and discuss new business regarding a lateral entry list. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with no other substantive items listed.
- Approval of October 8, 2021 meeting minutes
- Discussion of lateral entry list
Parks Commission
The Gig Harbor Parks Commission will meet virtually to receive an update on the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Plan and consider a proposal from the Rotary Club for a clean dog park at Shaw Park. The commission will also hear a report from Public Works Director Jeff Langhelm and take public comment. The agenda includes approval of the October 6, 2021 minutes.
- PROS Plan update: survey results show support for maintaining parks, interest in off-leash dog areas and community gardens
- Clean Dog Park Proposal for Shaw Park by Rotary Club of Gig Harbor
- Parks update: $150,000 donation from Gig Harbor Canoe and Kayak Race Team for Ancich Park lease
- Gig Harbor Sports Complex Phase 1B: Kiwanis donating eight benches
- Ancich Park Advanced Mitigation: Hearing Examiner meeting scheduled for November 18
The Gig Harbor Parks Commission approved its October 6, 2021 minutes and passed a motion expressing support for including an arts and culture component in the City's comprehensive plan, asking staff to convey that support. The commission also heard public comment and a Rotary Club proposal for an urban dog park near Shaw Park, and received a PROS Plan update. No decisions were made on Shaw Park uses or the dog park proposal.
- Approved October 6, 2021 Parks Commission minutes (unanimous)
- Approved motion supporting an arts and culture component in the City comprehensive plan and directing staff to convey that support (unanimous)
- Adjourned at 7:20 p.m. (unanimous)
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council is holding a study session to discuss changes to the 2022 preliminary budget, which totals $118,613,082, an increase of $2.6 million from the earlier version. The changes include a $1,998,000 increase in Hospital Benefit Zone taxes, carryovers for the Jerkovich Pier and WWTP projects, and adjustments to the Lodging Tax Fund. The council will also review the full preliminary budget document, which outlines capital projects, personnel changes, and salary adjustments.
- 2022 budget increase of $2,600,000 to $118,613,082
- Hospital Benefit Zone taxes increased by $1,998,000
- Carryover of $380,000 for Jerkovich Pier Advanced Mitigation Project
- Carryover of $150,000 for WWTP Digester/Aeration
- Proposed 2.5% cost of living increase for non-represented employees
City Council Committees
The Intergovernmental Affairs Committee will meet to discuss and finalize the city's 2022 legislative agenda, including transportation funding requests, zoning issues, and federal earmarks. The agenda includes items on SEPA and UGA zoning and an update on federal earmark appropriations. The committee will also review minutes from a prior meeting.
- 2022 Legislative Agenda discussion
- SEPA and UGA Zoning discussion
- Update on Federal Earmark Appropriations
- Approval of minutes from September 27, 2021
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council will hold a study session to discuss changes to the 2022 preliminary budget, which totals $118,613,082, an increase of $2,600,000 from the earlier draft. The changes include a $1,998,000 correction to Hospital Benefit Zone taxes, a $380,000 carryover for the Jerkovich Pier Advanced Mitigation Project, and a $150,000 carryover for WWTP Digester/Aeration upgrades. The council is also reviewing the full preliminary budget document, which includes capital projects, personnel changes, and salary adjustments.
- 2022 budget increase of $2,600,000 to $118,613,082
- Hospital Benefit Zone tax increase of $1,998,000
- Jerkovich Pier Advanced Mitigation Project carryover of $380,000
- WWTP Digester/Aeration carryover of $150,000
- Proposed 2.5% cost of living increase for non-represented employees
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council is holding a study session to discuss two items: setting a 20-year population growth target for 2024-2044, and a temporary suspension of special use provisions and encroachment permits. Staff recommends a 1% average annual growth rate, which would add about 2,200 people by 2044. The council is also considering a temporary suspension of certain land use provisions.
- Proposed 2024-2044 population growth target: 2,200 new residents, reaching 13,440 total by 2044
- Staff recommends 1% average annual growth rate, compared to 7.1% post-recession growth (2014-2020)
- City has capacity for 2,046 additional dwelling units (about 4,400 people) under current zoning
- Discussion of temporary suspension of special use provisions and encroachment permits
- Growth targets must be adopted by June 30, 2024, per state law
City Council Committees
The Gig Harbor Finance and Safety Committee will discuss a Retail Theft Deterrent Ordinance and fireworks at its October 25, 2021 meeting. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from September 20, 2021. The September minutes show the committee reviewed the six-year financial forecast and discussed a no-wake buoy idea for the harbor entrance.
- Retail Theft Deterrent Ordinance discussion
- Fireworks discussion
- Approval of September 20, 2021 minutes
- Previous meeting covered six-year budget forecast with projected 10% sales tax increase in 2022 and $1.1 million ARPA fund increase
The Finance and Safety Committee discussed a shoplifting deterrence program and a Pierce County fireworks ordinance. Police Chief Kelly Busey was asked to draft an ordinance for the committee's December 20, 2021 meeting. On fireworks, the committee asked Administrator Tony Piasecki to meet with Katrina Knutson and Paul Rice to gather information on testing availability and costs for a future meeting. No ordinances were voted on or approved.
- Directed Police Chief Busey to draft a theft-deterrent/shoplifting ordinance for the December 20, 2021 meeting
- Requested Administrator Piasecki meet with Knutson and Rice to gather fireworks testing availability and cost information for a future meeting
- Approved minutes from May 17, 2021
City Council
The City Council will consider several ordinances, including the repeal of the 'Bring Your Own Bag' rule and updates to the Municipal Strategic Plan. The meeting also includes a first reading of a budget amendment and discussion of a purchase and sale agreement. Staff will also present the third quarter budget update and an ADA self-evaluation transition plan.
- Second reading and adoption of Ordinance 1469 to repeal GHMC 5.14 Bring Your Own Bag
- First reading of Ordinance 1473 to amend the 2021 Budget
- Discussion of a Purchase & Sale Agreement
- Approval of vouchers totaling $695,394.73
- Presentation on the completion of the Marine Railway Project
The City Council unanimously approved Ordinance 1469, repealing the city's single-use plastic bag ban because the state's bag ban took effect October 1. It also authorized the Mayor to sign a purchase and sale agreement tied to the October 18 executive session, and directed staff to incorporate Department of Ecology amendments into the Shoreline Master Program update. Three other ordinances — the Municipal Court Judge's salary, Design Review Board roster changes, and a 2021 budget amendment for ARPA funds to FISH Food Bank — had first readings and will return for second reading on November 8. The council also supported cancelling the December 27 meeting.
- Approved Ordinance 1469 repealing the city's single-use plastic bag ban (unanimous)
- Authorized the Mayor to sign a purchase and sale agreement and complete due diligence (unanimous)
- Directed staff to incorporate Department of Ecology amendments into the Shoreline Master Program update and return for second reading (unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda, including vouchers totaling $695,394.73 (unanimous)
- Supported cancellation of the December 27 City Council meeting
- First reading only: Ordinance 1471 setting the Municipal Court Judge's salary (returns Nov. 8)
- First reading only: Ordinance 1470 revising Design Review Board roster requirements (returns Nov. 8)
- First reading only: Ordinance 1473 amending the 2021 budget to use ARPA funds for FISH Food Bank construction (returns Nov. 8)
Hearing Examiner Hearings
The Gig Harbor Hearing Examiner will hold a public hearing on a proposal by Wollochet Ministorage, LLC to build a five-building self-storage facility at 6622 Wollochet Dr. NW. The project requires site plan review, a conditional use permit, design review, an alternative landscape plan, and environmental review. Staff recommends approval with conditions, including compliance with comments from the Washington Department of Ecology.
- Five buildings totaling approximately 102,371 gross square feet
- Conditional use permit for self-storage in RB-2 zone
- Alternative design review approved by Design Review Board
- Determination of Nonsignificance issued for environmental review
- Public comment accepted until October 20, 2021
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council is holding a study session to discuss the preliminary 2022 budget, focusing on public works operating and capital expenses across departments like streets, water, wastewater, parks, and city buildings. The agenda includes a detailed breakdown of capital improvement projects, such as road improvements, utility upgrades, and park developments. No formal votes are scheduled; this is a discussion session.
- Civic Center HVAC assessment and replacement
- Gig Harbor Sports Complex Phase 1B design and permitting
- Burnham Drive half-width roadway improvements (Phase 1A and Phase 1 complete)
- Emergency water intertie along Canterwood Blvd (approx. 1,600 LF)
- Well #9 development at 11944 Olympus Way
The Gig Harbor City Council held a study session to review the 2022 Preliminary Budget with staff, specifically covering Tourism & Communications and Public Works. No changes were approved or decided during this meeting. Further discussion and direction for budget changes were deferred to a subsequent study session scheduled for October 28, 2021.
- Reviewed 2022 Preliminary Budget (Tourism & Communications, Public Works)
- Deferred further budget discussion to Oct 28 study session
Lodging Tax Advisory Committee
The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee is meeting to review the proposed 2022 budget for the Hotel-Motel Tax Fund. This fund supports tourism promotion, marketing, and city-sponsored community events.
- Review of the 2022 Budget Application
- $125,000 in annual lodging tax grant funding
- $490,933 proposed 2022 total budget
- Proposed $10,000 for new signage at Stinson, Pioneer, and Harbor Hill
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council will hold a special meeting to consider selecting a site or acquiring real estate through lease or purchase. This discussion will take place in an executive session to prevent potential price increases.
- Executive session regarding site selection or real estate acquisition
The Gig Harbor City Council met in a study session on October 18, 2021 to review the 2022 Preliminary Budget with staff, covering departments including Legislative, Non-Departmental, Court, Administration, Finance, Information Technology, Police, Community Development, and the Arts Commission. Council directed staff to prepare an allocation of $500,000 in ARPA funds from the 2021 Budget for construction of FISH Food Bank's new facility. Council scheduled another study session for October 28, 2021 to continue budget discussion. No formal votes or final budget approvals are recorded in these minutes.
- Directed staff to prepare allocation of $500,000 in ARPA funds from the 2021 Budget for construction of FISH Food Bank's new facility
- Scheduled another budget study session for October 28, 2021
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council is holding a study session to discuss the preliminary 2022 budget, including departmental funding and capital projects. The agenda includes a detailed review of the budget by department, with specific time allocations for each. The budget totals $116,013,082 across all funds, and the council will also discuss FISH funding for 2021/2022.
- Total 2022 budget appropriations of $116,013,082
- Police department budget of $4,667,843
- Community Development budget of $2,814,246
- Capital projects include Civic Center HVAC replacement, Gig Harbor Sports Complex Phase 1B, and Burnham Drive improvements
- Proposed personnel changes include 8.2 new FTEs and salary increases for represented employees
Arts Commission
The Gig Harbor Arts Commission is meeting to hear a presentation on cultural taxing districts from the Harbor History Museum and to discuss the Harbor Arbor Art Project. They will also receive an update on the Arts & Culture Element of the Gig Harbor Comprehensive Plan. The agenda includes approval of the August 11 minutes.
- Presentation on Cultural Taxing Districts by Stephanie Lile, Harbor History Museum
- Discussion of Harbor Arbor Art Project with Lynn Stevenson
- Update on Arts & Culture Element of the Gig Harbor Comprehensive Plan
- Approval of minutes from August 11 meeting
The Gig Harbor Arts Commission unanimously voted to recommend awarding a contract to JMS Sculpture to carve a snag in Grandview Forest. The Commission also heard a presentation from Harbor History Museum Executive Director Stephanie Lile on the potential for Cultural Taxing Districts, which she plans to present to City Council and other groups. The minutes of the September 8 meeting were unanimously approved. No other substantive decisions were recorded.
- Recommended awarding contract to JMS Sculpture to carve a snag in Grandview Forest (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of the September 8 meeting (unanimous)
City Council Committees
The Gig Harbor Public Works Committee is meeting to discuss new business, including a Hall Street right-of-way vacation request, an update on the Parks, Recreation and Open Space (PROS) Plan, and a draft ordinance for stormwater rate structure. The committee will also review the Capital Improvement Program (CIP). The agenda includes public comment and approval of the September 14, 2021 minutes.
- Hall St ROW Vacation Request – Ryan White
- PROS Plan Update (required for state grant eligibility, current plan expires March 1, 2022)
- Stormwater Rate Structure – Draft Ordinance
- CIP Review
The Gig Harbor Public Works Committee approved the September 14, 2021 meeting minutes and recommended moving a right of way vacation request for Hall Street to the full City Council. The committee also recommended scheduling a future City Council Study Session regarding a Stormwater Revenue Study draft ordinance, and discussed the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Plan update and Capital Improvement Program (CIP) tiers.
- Approved September 14, 2021 Public Works Committee Minutes (unanimous)
- Recommended moving Hall Street ROW Vacation Request to full Council
- Recommended scheduling a future City Council Study Session for Stormwater Revenue Study rates
Lodging Tax Advisory Committee
The Gig Harbor Lodging Tax Advisory Committee will hold a special meeting on October 12, 2021, to discuss and vote on recommendations for distributing lodging tax funds to 22 applicants for 2022. The agenda also includes updates on tourism marketing efforts, such as the VisitGigHarborWA digital campaign and potential new attractions like a skating rink and S'mores stations.
- Vote on LTAC recommendations for 22 grant applications totaling $286,806
- Applications include $20,000 requests from Greater Gig Harbor Foundation, Harbor History Museum, Rotary North, Asia Pacific Cultural Center, Metropolitan Glass, Downtown Waterfront Alliance, and Gig Harbor Film Festival
- Update on VisitGigHarborWA digital campaign: launched 8/29, fall ads live 10/1, targeting Los Angeles, SF Bay Area, Salt Lake City
- Potential skating rink sponsorship and S'mores stations for downtown discussed
- Content development with Wild Human and Nick Balera for photography, video, and drone
City Council Committees
The Gig Harbor City Council's Board & Commission Candidate Review Committee is meeting to consider amendments to the Design Review Board's membership requirements, including residency restrictions and category changes. The committee will also review the draft ordinance that was discussed at the previous meeting.
- Amendments to GHMC 2.21 Design Review Board
- Proposed residency requirement: west of Tacoma Narrows Bridge, east of Purdy Bridge
- Limit of one architect and up to two general-interest citizens on the board
- Existing members not meeting new requirements may serve out terms
The Board and Commission Candidate Review Committee unanimously approved the minutes from September 13, 2021. The committee also reviewed a draft ordinance revising Design Review Board roster requirements to separate building designers from licensed architects, and discussed potential future changes to Council Rules regarding member removal.
- Approved minutes of September 13, 2021 (unanimous)
- Reviewed draft ordinance revising GHMC 2.21 Design Review Board roster requirements
- Discussed future changes to Council Rules regarding the removal of ineligible members
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council will hold public hearings and consider adoption of findings of fact for two ordinances (1466 and 1467), and will also take action on accepting a property donation (Ordinance 1468) and introduce a repeal of the Bring Your Own Bag ordinance (1469). The meeting includes consent agenda items for minutes, vouchers totaling $1,422,260.86, and payroll of $484,814.87, plus presentations and proclamations.
- Public hearing on Ordinance 1467 (agenda bill and public comment attached)
- Public hearing on Ordinance 1466 (agenda bill and public comment attached)
- Second reading and adoption of Ordinance 1468 accepting North Creek Gig Harbor, LLC property donation
- First reading of Ordinance 1469 repealing GHMC 5.14 Bring Your Own Bag
- Approval of vouchers totaling $1,422,260.86 and payroll of $484,814.87
The Gig Harbor City Council unanimously approved the consent agenda, adopted findings of fact for a short-term rental permit pause under Ordinance 1467, and accepted a property donation near the Cushman Trail under Ordinance 1468. The council also approved interim zoning controls under Ordinance 1466 with a 6-1 vote and heard a first reading on repealing the city's single-use plastic bag ban.
- Approved Consent Agenda including September 27 minutes, vouchers ($1,422,260.86), and August payroll ($484,814.87) (Unanimous)
- Adopted whereas clauses of Ordinance 1467 as Findings of Fact for a short-term rental permit moratorium and directed the matter to the Planning Commission (Unanimous)
- Adopted whereas clauses of Ordinance 1466 as Findings of Fact for interim zoning controls to comply with ESSHB 1220 and directed the matter to the Planning Commission (Passed 6-1, Abersold opposed)
- Approved Ordinance 1468 accepting a property donation from North Creek Gig Harbor, LLC adjacent to the Cushman Trail at 96th Street (Unanimous)
Civil Service Commission
The Gig Harbor Civil Service Commission is meeting to consider a change to Civil Service Rules that would add an 'Exceptional Entry Level' applicant category, and to receive a hiring update. The meeting is being held remotely due to public health concerns.
- Proposed change to Civil Service Rule adding 'Exceptional Entry Level' applicant
- Hiring update
- Approval of August 23, 2021 meeting minutes
The Gig Harbor Civil Service Commission voted to amend its civil service rules to add an "Exceptional Entry Level" police hiring classification, after Chief Busey explained how it differs from entry level and lateral entry hiring. The commission also approved the minutes of its August 23, 2021 meeting. In a hiring update, Chief Busey said the department is budgeted for 21 commissioned officers and currently has 20 filled after a recent hire. No other business was discussed.
- Approved amendment adding "Exceptional Entry Level" to Civil Service Rules (passed)
- Approved August 23, 2021 minutes (passed)
Lodging Tax Advisory Committee
The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee will review 22 applications for 2022 lodging tax grants, totaling $286,806 in requests. The committee will also receive updates on the VisitGigHarborWA tourism website and discuss potential projects like a skating rink and S'mores stations. The agenda includes approval of September minutes and other tourism-related updates.
- 22 grant applications totaling $286,806 for 2022
- VisitGigHarborWA digital site launched, fall ads live
- Potential skating rink and S'mores stations for downtown
- Content development with Wild Human and Nick Balera
- Digital kiosk update and brochure/map production
Planning Commission
The Gig Harbor Planning Commission is holding two study sessions: one on Arts & Culture and a second on the Urban Growth Area Analysis. No formal decisions are scheduled; the next meeting on October 21 will include a public hearing on the Arts & Culture Comprehensive Plan Amendment.
- Arts & Culture study session
- Urban Growth Area Analysis study session #2
- Next meeting: October 21, 2021 — Comp Plan Amendment Arts & Culture Open Public Hearing
The Planning Commission held study sessions regarding arts and culture and an urban growth area analysis. No formal legislative actions or votes were taken on these topics. The commission approved the minutes from the September 16, 2021, meeting.
- Approved September 16, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
Hearing Examiner Hearings
The Hearing Examiner will review a conditional use permit application to allow a single-family home at 3505 Ross Avenue to operate as a short-term vacation rental. The proposal would provide three bedrooms for up to eight guests for stays of no more than 28 days. Planning staff recommends approval with specific conditions regarding business licenses and building inspections.
- Conditional use permit (PL-CUP-21-0002) for Husain vacation rental
- Proposed lodging of up to eight people in a three-bedroom residence
- Requirement for six off-street parking stalls
- Public comment from Ken Malich regarding parking and owner occupancy
Parks Commission
The Gig Harbor Parks Commission will review the 2021 work plan and develop a proposed 2022 work plan for City Council approval, as well as receive an update on the PROS Plan. The meeting includes approval of minutes, a parks update from Public Works Director Jeff Langhelm, committee reports, and public comment.
- 2022 Park Commission Work Plan development
- PROS Plan update (required by RCO, due March 2022)
- 2022 budget items: $40,000 for court resurfacing, $20,000 for PROS Plan update, $18,000 for Cushman Trail signage
- Potential projects: Adopt-a-Park, Crescent Creek visioning, Cushman Trail spur, skate park cameras ($5,000 grant funded)
The Parks Commission approved its September 1, 2021 minutes and adjourned at 7:14 p.m. Most of the meeting was informational: a resident proposed a community garden at Shaw Park during public comment, and Vice Chair Barber reported survey results from the PROS Plan public input process. Under new business, the Commission discussed a draft 2022 work plan and suggested holding a work study session with Council before the budget is finalized and a special meeting to prioritize work items; no work plan was adopted.
- Approved September 1, 2021 Parks Commission minutes (unanimous)
- Adjourned at 7:14 p.m. (unanimous)
- No vote on the Shaw Park community garden proposal; resident comment only
- No vote on the 2022 Parks Commission Work Plan; discussion only
City Council Committees
The Planning & Building Committee is reviewing Pierce County's 2044 population, housing, and employment growth targets. Members are also discussing results from the Downtown Waterfront Alliance parking study.
- Discussion of Downtown Waterfront Alliance Parking Study Results
- Review of Pierce County 2044 Population, Housing, and Employment Growth Targets
- Review of Pierce County Buildable Lands Report dated 8/31/21
The Planning & Building Committee approved its September 7, 2021 minutes and adjourned at 4:28 p.m. Members agreed to move the Downtown Waterfront Alliance parking study results discussion to the next scheduled meeting. Councilmember Himes reviewed the Pierce County 2044 population, housing, and employment growth targets and the draft Pierce County Buildable Lands Report; members agreed to wait until after the October 26 City Council Study Session for the growth targets item. No other substantive decisions were recorded.
- Approved September 7, 2021 minutes (all in favor)
- Downtown Waterfront Alliance parking study results discussion moved to next scheduled meeting
- Agreed to wait until after the October 26 City Council Study Session on Pierce County 2044 growth targets
- Adjourned at 4:28 p.m. (all in favor)
City Council Committees
The Intergovernmental Affairs Committee is meeting to discuss federal and state activity updates, including the Infrastructure Bill and culvert legislation, and to plan the 2022 legislative agenda. The attached report details the city's 2021 legislative outcomes, including partial funding for the Sports Complex and ongoing efforts for Highway 16 congestion relief.
- Update on federal Infrastructure Bill and culvert legislation status
- Planned RCO grant requests for state funding
- 2022 Legislative Agenda discussion
- Highway 16 Congestion Improvements: $1.16 million request for design/construction
- Gig Harbor Sports Complex: received $500,000 LWCF grant, but not $2 million local community projects funding
The Intergovernmental Affairs Committee reviewed federal funding status and discussed items for the 2022 legislative agenda. The committee reached a consensus to continue prioritizing transportation projects and funding for the Sports Complex. No final legislative agenda was adopted, as staff will prepare a draft for future review.
- Approved July 19, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council will hold first readings and possible adoption of two ordinances: one establishing interim zoning controls related to emergency shelter and housing (Ordinance 1466), and another imposing a six-month moratorium on new lodging level 1 and short-term rental applications (Ordinance 1467). The council will also consider a second reading of Ordinance 1465 updating public records rules, a lease agreement with the Chamber of Commerce, and several consent agenda items including a residential lease and a professional services contract.
- Ordinance 1466: interim zoning controls amending GHMC related to ESSHB 1220 emergency shelter and housing
- Ordinance 1467: six-month moratorium on new lodging level 1 and short-term rental applications
- Ordinance 1465: second reading and adoption updating GHMC 2.52 Public Records
- Lease agreement with Chamber of Commerce
- Professional services contract for Prentice Avenue/Fenimore Street half street improvements design
The Gig Harbor City Council approved a six-month moratorium on short-term rental applications, updated public records policies, and approved a lease agreement with the Chamber of Commerce. The Council also authorized major contracts for the Lift Station No. 12 rehabilitation project and adopted interim zoning controls for emergency shelters and housing.
- Approved Consent Agenda including September 13 minutes, leases, appointments, and $459,648.42 in vouchers (Unanimous)
- Adopted Ordinance 1465 updating public records policies with a 6-month status report requirement (Unanimous)
- Approved Chamber of Commerce lease agreement for 3125 Judson Street (Unanimous)
- Adopted Ordinance 1467 imposing a 6-month moratorium on new short-term rental applications (Unanimous)
- Authorized public works and engineering contracts for Lift Station No. 12 totaling over $3.8 million combined (Unanimous)
- Adopted Ordinance 1466 for interim zoning controls regarding emergency shelters and housing (6-1, Abersold opposed)
City Council Committees
The Gig Harbor Finance and Safety Committee is meeting to review a 6-year financial forecast for the general and street operating funds, covering 2021 through 2027. The forecast projects revenue and expenditure trends, including the impact of federal ARPA funds and sales tax growth. The committee will also consider approving minutes from its June 21, 2021 meeting.
- Review of 6-year financial forecast for general and street operating funds (2021-2027)
- General fund revenues projected 15% over 2020 in 2021, partly due to $1,497,275 in ARPA funds
- Sales tax revenues up 20% in August 2021, projected 15% growth through December 2021
- Street operating fund expenditures projected to rise from $1.9 million in 2021 to nearly $3.0 million in 2022
- Approval of minutes from June 21, 2021 meeting
The Finance and Safety Committee met on September 20, 2021 and received a presentation on the 2021 Six Year Budget Forecast, including projected General Fund ending balances and ARPA funds. Members also discussed a citizen's idea for a no-wake buoy at the harbor entrance, with the police chief noting practical concerns. No motions, votes, or formal decisions are recorded in these minutes; the meeting adjourned at 4:26 p.m.
Planning Commission
The Gig Harbor Planning Commission is holding a public hearing to review and make a recommendation on the first periodic update to the city's Shoreline Master Program (GHSMP), a legislative action required by state law. The update includes state-mandated changes and city-proposed amendments, such as aligning with FEMA flood regulations, allowing certain parking areas, and permitting overwater decks in specific shoreline designations. The Commission's recommendation will be forwarded to the City Council for final action.
- Public hearing on Shoreline Master Program Periodic Review (PL-COMP-21-0002)
- Proposed updates to align with FEMA National Flood Insurance Program and 'Door 2' ESA compliance
- Allow principal use parking upland of specified streets in City Waterfront Shoreline Environmental Designation
- Allow overwater decks appurtenant to permitted water-oriented uses in City Waterfront and Historic Working Waterfront designations
- No written comments received during 30-day joint public comment period (ends Sept 17, 2021)
The Gig Harbor Planning Commission approved the minutes from August 19, 2021, and held a public hearing for the Shoreline Management Program periodic review. Commissioners voted to recommend the amendments to the City Council for approval, with a proviso regarding figure 5.2 A and the Urban Growth Area.
- Approved August 19, 2021 minutes (Bradbury/Grina)
- Recommended Shoreline Management Program periodic update and amendments to City Council for approval as presented by staff, with a proviso regarding figure 5.2 A (Krawczyk/Bennett, all in favor)
Lodging Tax Advisory Committee
The Gig Harbor Lodging Tax Advisory Committee is meeting to review August minutes, discuss LTAC structures around Washington, and get an update on an assistant position. They will also review event sponsorship requests, hear a follow-up from MRSC on grant directives, and discuss the 2021 Visitors Guide, including a $15,000 digital campaign and ongoing print distribution issues. The committee will consider potential winter attractions like a skating rink and s'mores stations, plus 2022 brochure production and press coverage plans.
- $15,000 digital campaign for remainder of 2021
- Review of event sponsorship requests: Monkeyshines, Lavender Farm, Gig Harbor Now, Lacrosse/Soccer Tourney, Taproom BBQ & Brews
- Discussion of potential December skating rink and s'mores stations
- 2022 Visitors Guide planned for early 2022 release
- Brochure production for 2022: Netshed, golf, calendar of events, food/wine guide
The committee approved the August meeting minutes. Members discussed tourism initiatives including a new website, potential winter ice-skating rink, and 2022 budget projects.
- Approved August meeting minutes
City Council Committees
The Gig Harbor Public Works Committee will meet to discuss two new business items: extending the right-turn lane on Olympic Drive at Pt. Fosdick Drive, and reviewing the August 2021 water system disruptions at Cedar Crest. The committee will also review the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and hear public comment. The meeting is open to the public via phone or Zoom.
- Olympic Dr. right-turn lane extension at Pt. Fosdick Dr.
- Cedar Crest Water System August 2021 incident review
- CIP review
- Approval of June 15, 2021 minutes
The committee recommended conducting a traffic modeling study for the Olympic Drive Right-turn Lane Extension after Metropolitan Market opens in 2022. Members also reviewed the Cedar Crest Water System's August 2021 equipment failures and the Capital Improvement Program tiers.
- Approved June 15, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Recommended traffic modeling study for Olympic Dr. Right-Turn Lane Extension at Pt. Fosdick Dr.
City Council Committees
The Board & Commission Candidate Review Committee will interview applicants for the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee. The committee will also discuss appointment recommendations and the roster for that board.
- Interviews for Lodging Tax Advisory Committee applicant Sue Braaten
- Interviews for Lodging Tax Advisory Committee applicant Mary DesMarais
- Discussion of Lodging Tax Advisory Committee appointment recommendations
- Discussion of amendments to GHMC 2.21 Design Review Board
The committee unanimously approved the August 2, 2021 minutes and recommended two applicants for reappointment to the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee. The committee also discussed proposed roster and residency amendments for the Design Review Board, with a draft ordinance to be reviewed at the next meeting on October 11.
- Approved minutes of August 2, 2021 (unanimous)
- Recommended Sue Braaten and Mary DesMarais for reappointment to the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (unanimous)
- Discussed amendments to GHMC 2.21 Design Review Board roster and residency requirements for future draft ordinance review
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council will hold a first reading of Ordinance 1465 to update the city's public records code (GHMC 2.52). The meeting also includes consent agenda items such as intergovernmental agreements, approval of vouchers and payroll, and reports from the mayor and city administrator.
- First reading of Ordinance 1465 updating GHMC 2.52 Public Records
- 2021-2026 Washington State Reference Network Agreement with Seattle Public Utilities
- Intergovernmental Cooperative Purchasing Agreement with Pierce County for generator maintenance and minor repair services
- Approval of vouchers totaling $2,044,049.54 for August 23 and September 13, 2021
- Approval of payroll totaling $489,178.81
The City Council unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included previous meeting minutes, the Washington State Reference Network agreement with Seattle Public Utilities, an intergovernmental cooperative purchasing agreement with Pierce County for generator services, vouchers totaling $2,045,049.54 across August and September, and payroll totaling $489,178.81. The council also heard the first reading of Ordinance 1465 regarding public records.
- Approved Consent Agenda including minutes, agreements, and vouchers (Unanimous)
- Approved vouchers of $628,717.50 for August 23, 2021
- Approved vouchers of $1,416,332.04 for September 13, 2021
- Approved payroll of $489,178.81
- Heard first reading of Ordinance 1465 updating public records policy
Arts Commission
The Commission is reviewing budget options and objectives for 2022. Discussion items include updates on historic markers, the Harbor Arbor Art Project, and the Arts & Culture Element of the Comprehensive Plan.
- 2022 Budget discussion and Narrative of Objectives
- Historic Markers update from Mayor Kuhn
- Harbor Arbor Art Project research in City parks
- Arts & Culture Element of the Gig Harbor Comprehensive Plan
- Proposed $5,500 for Harbor Arbor Art
The Commission decided to recruit artists to carve two snags in Grandview Forest. Members also recommended revisions to the proposed 2022 Budget to clarify capital project goals and combine funding for workshops and education.
- Approved August 11 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Recommended revisions to proposed 2022 Budget
- Decided to seek artists for Harbor Arbor Art Project carvings in Grandview Forest
City Council Committees
The Planning & Building Committee will discuss short-term rentals (VRBO), House Bill 1220 on emergency shelters and housing, and growth. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from the August 2 meeting. A draft Pierce County Buildable Lands Report is attached for reference.
- Short Term Rentals/VRBO – Committee Discussion
- House Bill 1220 'Emergency Shelters and Housing- Local Planning and Development' – Director Katrina Knutson
- Growth Discussion – Committee Discussion
- Approval of Minutes: Monday, August 2, 2021
The Gig Harbor Planning & Building Committee held a discussion meeting on September 7, 2021, covering short-term rentals, House Bill 1220 regarding emergency shelters and housing, and growth. The committee approved the minutes from the August 2, 2021 meeting and took no other formal substantive votes or decisions.
- Approved minutes from August 2, 2021 meeting (Franich/Markley)
Hearing Examiner Hearings
The Hearing Examiner will consider a proposal by Swede Hill, LLC to build four commercial buildings and a parking garage. The project includes drive-through facilities and requires mitigation for impacts to wetlands and a stream on the 7.6-acre site.
- Construction of 28,278 square feet of commercial buildings
- Construction of a 9,000 square feet parking garage
- Conditional use permit for drive-through facilities
- Mitigation of two category IV wetlands and an unnamed stream
- Proposed 40-foot-wide natural buffer for the northern residential border
Parks Commission
The Gig Harbor Parks Commission will meet virtually to discuss the PROS Plan update and the status of Austin Park projects. They will also receive a parks update from Public Works Director Jeff Langhelm and hear committee reports and public comment.
- PROS Plan update discussion
- Status update on Austin Park projects
- Introduction of new members Doug Terrien and Will Appleton
- Approval of August 4, 2021 minutes
The Gig Harbor Parks Commission approved the minutes from its August 4, 2021 meeting and discussed the PROS Plan survey, Austin Park projects, and general park updates. No new business or substantive policy decisions were made.
- Approved August 4, 2021 Parks Commission minutes unanimously
Civil Service Commission
The Gig Harbor Civil Service Commission is meeting to approve minutes from June 11, 2021, and discuss new business, including certifying a sergeant promotional eligibility roster and discussing exceptional lateral candidates. The meeting is held remotely due to public health concerns.
- Certification of Sergeant Promotional Eligibility Roster
- Discussion of Exceptional Lateral Candidates
- Approval of June 11, 2021 meeting minutes
The Gig Harbor Civil Service Commission certified a Sergeant promotional eligibility roster, which Chief Busey said is good for one year with a possible one-year extension and that there are currently no vacancies. The commission also discussed, but did not decide, a possible change to the exceptional lateral candidate standard; Chief Busey was asked to draft a proposal for the next meeting. The meeting adjourned at 3:07 PM, with the next meeting tentatively scheduled for September 10, 2021.
- Certified the Sergeant promotional eligibility roster (unanimous)
- Approved the August 23, 2021 minutes (Richards/Brown)
- Directed Chief Busey to draft a proposal on exceptional lateral candidates for the next meeting (no vote recorded)
- Adjourned at 3:07 PM (Richards/Brown)
Planning Commission
The Gig Harbor Planning Commission will hold a study session on the Urban Growth Area (UGA) analysis, which evaluates potential annexation areas. The agenda includes a discussion of the annexation process, its impacts, and a workplan for the analysis. The meeting is open to the public via Zoom.
- Discussion of Urban Growth Area (UGA) analysis and annexation feasibility
- Review of draft minutes from August 5, 2021
- Public can join via Zoom (ID: 953 5341 1299)
The Planning Commission approved the minutes of its August 5, 2021 meeting and received a presentation on Urban Growth Area Analysis from Carl deSimas, followed by commission discussion. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural and informational. The next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, September 2, 2021, on the Comprehensive Plan Update draft. The meeting adjourned at 6:33 p.m.
- Approved August 5, 2021 minutes as written (all in favor)
- Received Urban Growth Area Analysis presentation from Carl deSimas; no action taken
- Adjourned at 6:33 p.m. (all in favor)
Hearing Examiner Hearings
The Gig Harbor Hearing Examiner will hold a virtual public hearing on two items: a proposal by the Public Works Department to install a carved house post art piece at Austin Estuary Park, and a request by Walt and Nora Smith to rezone three parcels to R-2. The hearing includes staff reports, applicant presentations, and public comment. Written comments must be submitted by Aug 18, 2021.
- Public art installation 'Our fisherman, Our guardian' at Austin Estuary Park, 18-foot carved house post on concrete base, 15 feet from high tide line
- Mitigation and monitoring for no net loss of ecological function in Gig Harbor Bay and Category II estuarine wetlands
- Smith Rezone (PL-REZ-21-0001) to rezone three parcels to R-2, per 2016 Development Agreement
- Public comment via Zoom or phone, 3-minute limit per speaker
The Gig Harbor Hearing Examiner approved a rezone of three parcels owned by Walt and Norma Smith from Employment District and Single-Family Residential to Medium-density Residential (R-2), subject to conditions. The Examiner also granted permits for a public art project at Austin Estuary Park, subject to conditions including archaeological monitoring. Both decisions were issued in separate reports dated October 4, 2021, and September 21, 2021, respectively.
- Approved rezone of three parcels at 6302-112 Street and 11302 Burnham Drive from ED/R-1 to R-2, with conditions (Hearing Examiner decision, no vote tally recorded)
- Approved Shoreline Substantial Development Permit, Site Plan Amendment, Design Review Permit, and Alternative Landscape Plan Permit for Austin Estuary Park public art project, with conditions (Hearing Examiner decision, no vote tally recorded)
Lodging Tax Advisory Committee
The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee will review and approve July minutes, hear a presentation on LTAC grant directives, and receive updates on the 2021 Visitors Guide, including ongoing print distribution issues and the digital launch. They will also discuss press coverage, social media posts, and fall travel media pitches. The agenda is largely informational and procedural, with no major funding decisions scheduled.
- MRSC presentation on LTAC grant directives
- 2021 Visitors Guide print distribution issues and digital launch at visitgigharborwa.com
- 75th Anniversary banner hung over Harborview; DPI sold to Minuteman, not produced or billed
- Brochure production for 2022 and fall features
- Upcoming press coverage from 1889 Magazine and freelance journalist Chaney Kwak
The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee approved the minutes of its July 8 and July 22 meetings. The committee received a presentation from Eric Lowell of MRSC on lodging tax grant directives, covering eligibility rules such as allowing for-profit applicants and prohibiting capital improvements. Staff also gave updates on the 2021 Visitors Guide, press releases, brochures, and the SeeSound data platform. No grant awards or funding decisions were recorded.
- Approved July 8 minutes (motion Jenny Wellman, second James Karrer)
- Approved July 22 minutes (motion Warren Zimmerman, second James Karrer)
- Adjourned at 12:22p (motion Jenny Wellman, second Mayor Kit Kuhn)
Arts Commission
The Gig Harbor Arts Commission is meeting to discuss the 2022 budget, an update on historic markers, the Arts & Culture Element of the Comprehensive Plan, and a proposed site for the Harbor Arbor Art project. The meeting follows prior discussions on these topics, including a proposed $5,500 art project at Adam Tallman Nature Park.
- Discussion of 2022 budget
- Historic Markers Update
- Arts & Culture Element of the Gig Harbor Comprehensive Plan
- Harbor Arbor Art Project - proposed site at Adam Tallman Nature Park (6811 Wagner Way) with a $5,500 budget
- Approval of minutes from July 14 and July 23 meetings
The Gig Harbor Arts Commission unanimously approved the July 14 meeting minutes and approved the July 23 meeting minutes with one abstention. Commissioners also discussed updates regarding historic markers, the Arts & Culture Element, the Harbor Arbor Art Project, and the 2022 budget.
- Approved July 14 meeting minutes unanimously
- Approved July 23 meeting minutes (5-0, with Samantha Kelly abstaining)
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council will vote on consent agenda items including payroll and vouchers, a resolution to reject all bids for Skansie Netshed painting, and a Design Review Board appointment. They will also hold a second reading and adoption of Ordinance 1464 for LTGO refunding bonds, and consider awarding a construction contract for Lift Station #6. A speed study report for Harborview Drive will be presented.
- Approval of payroll totaling $727,540.21
- Approval of vouchers totaling $751,774.26
- Resolution 1216 to reject all bids for Skansie Netshed painting
- Second reading and adoption of Ordinance 1464 for LTGO Refunding Bonds 2021
- Lift Station #6 Public Works Construction Contract Award
The Gig Harbor City Council unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included rejecting all bids for the Skansie Netshed painting and appointing Larry Bradbury to the Design Review Board. The Council also approved Ordinance 1464 for LTGO refunding bonds and awarded contracts for the Lift Station #6 project.
- Approved Consent Agenda including July 26 minutes, board minutes, and donations (Unanimous)
- Appointed Larry Bradbury to the Design Review Board
- Rejected all bids for Resolution 1216 Skansie Netshed Painting
- Approved payroll of $727,540.21 and vouchers of $751,774.26
- Approved Ordinance 1464 for LTGO Refunding Bonds 2021 (Unanimous)
- Awarded Lift Station #6 public works contract to Gary Harper Construction, Inc. ($1,872,574.90), HDR, Inc. amendment ($170,496.38), and MTC, Inc. contract ($16,194.00) (6-0, 1 abstention)
Hearing Examiner Hearings
The Gig Harbor Hearing Examiner will hold a public hearing on a conditional use permit (PL-CUP-21-0001) requested by Gig Harbor Homesites II LLC to expand the Haven of Rest Cemetery onto a 10.07-acre parcel at 8917 SR 16, zoned R-2 Medium-Density Residential. The proposal includes no development, only the cemetery use. Staff recommends approval with conditions, and no public comments have been received as of the report date.
- Conditional use permit for cemetery expansion on 10.07 acres at 8917 SR 16, adjacent to existing cemetery and Cushman Trail
- No development proposed; future permits required for any site work
- Staff recommends approval with conditions, including obtaining all necessary permits
- Permit expires in 3 years if no subsequent building or civil permit application is submitted
- Public hearing scheduled for August 5, 2021, with written comments due by noon that day
The Hearing Examiner granted a conditional use permit to expand the Haven of Rest Cemetery onto a 10.07-acre parcel at 8917 SR-16. The applicant must obtain all necessary business, land use, civil, and building permits before developing the site.
- Approved conditional use permit for 10.07-acre cemetery expansion
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission will hold a study session to discuss proposed amendments to the City's Shoreline Master Program (SMP). The discussion includes addressing questions regarding live-aboard vessel regulations and clarifying the dollar threshold for substantial development.
- Study session on Shoreline Master Program periodic review
- Proposed amendment to increase critical fish and wildlife area buffers from 25 to 50 feet
- Proposed changes to wetland rating categories and habitat scores
- Discussion on regulations for live-aboard vessels in marinas
- Proposed updates to stream analysis report requirements
The Planning Commission approved the July 1, 2021 minutes as written and held a study session on the Shoreline Master Program Periodic Update, presented by staff Carl deSimas and Kim Mahoney. No decisions were recorded on the shoreline update; it was a study session only. The meeting adjourned at 6:30 p.m.
- Approved July 1, 2021 minutes as written (all in favor)
- Held study session on Shoreline Master Program Periodic Update (no action recorded)
- Adjourned at 6:30 p.m. (all in favor)
Parks Commission
The Commission will discuss the PROS Plan update and receive a report from the Public Works Director. The meeting also includes the introduction of new members Doug Terrien and Will Appleton.
- PROS Plan update discussion
- Introduction of new members Doug Terrien and Will Appleton
- Austin Park Honoring Project land use permit update
- Gig Harbor Canoe and Kayak Race Team $150,000 lease amendment
- Skansie Netshed repainting bid rejection resolution
The Parks Commission approved the minutes from their July 7, 2021 meeting. Members also reviewed and approved draft survey questions for the Pros Plan update, including four recommended stakeholder group classifications.
- Approved July 7, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved draft Pros Plan survey questions (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting at 6:18 p.m. (unanimous)
City Council Committees
The Board & Commission Candidate Review Committee is holding a special meeting to interview three applicants for the Design Review Board. The committee will also approve minutes from its July 12 meeting. No other substantive business is on the agenda.
- Interview Nick Kostal for DRB Category 1
- Interview Larry Bradbury for DRB Category 3
- Interview Tom Brown for DRB Category 3
- Approve minutes from July 12, 2021
The Board and Commission Candidate Review Committee interviewed three applicants for the Design Review Board and recommended Larry Bradbury for appointment (Category 3 — member of the Planning Commission). Tom Brown was not appointed because he did not fit any remaining DRB categories. The committee will wait for more applicants before considering Nick Kostal for the final vacancy at its September 13 meeting. The July 12, 2021 minutes were unanimously approved.
- Recommended Larry Bradbury for Design Review Board appointment (Category 3 — Planning Commission member)
- Tom Brown not appointed to Design Review Board (did not fit remaining categories)
- Deferred consideration of Nick Kostal for final DRB vacancy until September 13 meeting
- Approved July 12, 2021 minutes unanimously
City Council Committees
The Planning & Building Committee will receive an update on the Pierce County Buildable Lands Report and discuss population and employment growth targets for 2044. Staff will present capacity data and answer questions, with final targets to be adopted by the County Council in 2022.
- Buildable Lands Report update – final draft scheduled for County Council in August 2021
- Discussion of preliminary 2044 employment target of 15,922 jobs (3,500 growth share)
- Population growth scenarios from 1.3% to 1.7% annual rate, adding 3,600–4,700 residents
- Capacity summary shows 4,451 employment and 2,100 housing unit capacity
- Next Comprehensive Plan update due June 30, 2024
The Planning & Building Committee met on August 2, 2021, and approved the July 7, 2021 minutes as written. The committee discussed two agenda items: a Buildable Lands Report update and population and employment targets. No decisions on those items are recorded in the minutes; the meeting adjourned at 4:17 PM.
- Approved July 7, 2021 minutes as written (Markley/Himes)
- Adjourned meeting at 4:17 PM (Markley/Himes, all in favor)
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council will hold a first reading and possible adoption of an ordinance for LTGO refunding bonds, a budget amendment for staffing, and an intergovernmental agreement with South Sound Housing Affordability Partners. They will also consider several public works contracts, including for the Stinson/Harborview intersection and Community Paddler's Dock, plus a change order for the Eddon Boat Park brick house chimney. Consent agenda items include appointments, a lease agreement, and voucher approvals.
- First reading of ordinance for LTGO refunding bonds 2021
- Ordinance 1463 - budget amendment for staffing
- South Sound Housing Affordability Partners intergovernmental agreement
- Stinson/Harborview intersection improvements construction contract award
- Community Paddler's Dock construction contract award
The Gig Harbor City Council approved a $2,188,188.01 construction contract with Active Construction Inc. for the Harborview Drive and Stinson Avenue Intersection Improvements Project, along with related construction support and materials testing contracts. Council also approved a $758,726.00 contract with American Construction Co., Inc. for the Community Paddler's Dock and authorized up to $96,634.50 for Council Chambers audio/video upgrades with Diversified. Ordinance 1463, a budget amendment for staffing, passed 6-1 after an initial motion failed 4-3, with the approved version removing a Human Resources Analyst and an additional Human Resources Assistant and allowing temporary HR appointments to be extended through the end of 2021. A first reading of an ordinance for LTGO refunding bonds was held with no vote; adoption is expected August 9.
- Approved consent agenda including vouchers totaling $377,673.36 (unanimous)
- Authorized Mayor to sign agreement with Diversified for Council Chambers AV upgrades, not to exceed $96,634.50 (unanimous)
- Motion to approve Ordinance 1463 removing HR Analyst and HR Assistant positions failed 4-3
- Approved Ordinance 1463 removing HR Analyst and HR Assistant positions and allowing extension of temporary HR appointments through end of 2021 (6-1, Franich opposed)
- Authorized Mayor to sign South Sound Housing Affordability Partners Intergovernmental Agreement (unanimous)
- Authorized $2,188,188.01 contract with Active Construction Inc. for Stinson/Harborview intersection, plus $98,640.21 and $31,390 professional services contracts and up to $175,000 in additional expenditures (6-1, Franich opposed)
- Authorized $758,726.00 contract with American Construction Co., Inc. for Community Paddler's Dock and up to $25,000 in change orders (6-1, Franich opposed)
- Authorized Mayor to execute contract with American Construction Co., Inc. for Eddon Boat Park Brick House chimney reconstruction change order (unanimous)
Arts Commission
The Gig Harbor Arts Commission is holding a special meeting to discuss the draft Arts & Culture Element of the Gig Harbor Comprehensive Plan. This element would establish goals, policies, and actions to guide arts and cultural activities in the city, including public art, economic vitality, education, and heritage preservation. The commission will review the draft, which includes a policy matrix and implementation actions, but no final decision is scheduled at this meeting.
- Discussion of the Arts & Culture Element, including goals for creative economic vitality, public art, education, spaces, and heritage
- Proposal to create a city arts fund to support grants for artists and non-profits (P-14.1.3)
- Proposal to expand the Public Art Fund and include the Arts Commission in development projects (P-14.2.2, P-14.2.3)
- Action item to rename the Arts Commission to the Arts and Culture Commission (A-14.7)
- Survey findings: 87% of 915 respondents rated arts as 'Very Important' to quality of life
The Gig Harbor Arts Commission held a meeting on July 23, 2021, where staff and a consultant introduced the revised Arts & Culture Element of the Gig Harbor Comprehensive Plan. Commissioners discussed the draft structure and language, and agreed to send comments to staff by July 28. No formal votes or substantive decisions were recorded in the minutes.
- Discussed the revised Arts & Cultural Element of the Gig Harbor Comprehensive Plan (no vote taken)
Lodging Tax Advisory Committee
The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee is reviewing the 2021 grant approach and providing feedback on proposed spending guidelines. The proposal includes a minimum of $125,000 annually for external grants, a $20,000 per-project cap, and $5,000 for new or emerging events. The committee also discussed diversifying funding and increasing tourism marketing.
- Proposed $125,000 minimum annual spend on external grants
- Per-project request maximum set at $20,000
- $5,000 set aside for new or emerging non-profit events
- 2021 budget shows $118,000 for tourism advertising
- 2019 external grants totaled $22,139; 2020 awarded $75,000
The Gig Harbor Lodging Tax Advisory Committee reviewed the 2021 grant approach and discussed budget spending, fund overages, and categories for 2022 LTAC grants. The committee voted to maintain the 2021 grant structure for 2022 with exceptions to the presented percentages.
- Approved maintaining the 2021 grant structure for 2022 with percentage exceptions (unanimous vote)
Design Review Board
The Gig Harbor Design Review Board will hold a virtual public meeting on July 22, 2021, to review two formal agenda items. The first is a request from the City's Public Works Department for a design alternative and exception for the rehabilitation of Sewer Lift Station #12 at 11502 Burnham Drive. The second is a continued review of the proposed 78-unit Burnham Drive Apartments at 9411 Burnham Drive, focusing on specific design standards. The board will also approve minutes from prior meetings.
- Sewer Lift Station #12: demolition of existing pump station building, construction of new building, and rehabilitation of wet well and manhole at 11502 Burnham Drive (PL-DR-21-0167)
- Burnham Drive Apartments: 78-unit complex with five 3-story buildings, a 2-story carriage unit building, and a community building at 9411 Burnham Drive (PL-SPR-17-0003, PL-CUP-17-0001, PL-DR-17-0184, PL-SEPA-17-0013)
- Design alternative and exception request for Lift Station #12 under GHMC 17.98.055(A) and 17.98.060(D)
- Burnham Drive Apartments review of design standards GHMC 17.99.240C, 17.99.370A, and 17.99.470C
- Approval of minutes from July 8, 2021 meeting
The Design Review Board approved previous meeting minutes and reviewed two formal agenda items. They recommended that the decision maker approve a design exception for Sewer Lift Station #12 with a recommendation to consider a standard seamed metal roof. They also approved design alternatives, grading quantities, and a retaining wall for the Burnham Drive Apartments project.
- Approved minutes from May 27, June 10, and July 8, 2021
- Recommended decision maker approve design exception for Sewer Lift Station #12 (all in favor)
- Recommended applicant install a standard seamed metal roof instead of metal shingles for Lift Station #12 (all in favor)
- Approved grading quantities for Burnham Drive Apartments (all in favor)
- Approved Burnham Drive Apartments design meeting or exceeding Design Manual with private patios (all in favor)
- Approved 10.4-foot retaining wall for Burnham Drive Apartments accessible walkway (passed with opposition from Ashlock)
City Council Committees
The Intergovernmental Affairs Committee is holding a special meeting to discuss updates on the 2021 Interim Plan and federal appropriation requests. The agenda includes approval of minutes from a prior meeting. The meeting is largely procedural, with discussion items focused on legislative advocacy and funding priorities.
- Discussion of 2021 Interim Plan, including legislative priorities and lobbying activities
- Update on Federal Appropriation Requests
- Approval of minutes from March 22, 2021 meeting
The committee reviewed updates on the 2021 interim plan and federal appropriation requests. Members discussed potential 2022 legislative goals, including a capital funding request of up to $1.5 million. No formal legislative actions were taken during the meeting.
- Approved minutes from March 22, 2021 (unanimous)
Arts Commission
The Gig Harbor Arts Commission will discuss updates on the Harborview/Stinson roundabout art, historic markers (including a presentation by the Puyallup Tribe), the Harbor Arbor Art Project, and the 2022 budget. They will also hear reports on the Creative District Program and approve minutes from prior meetings.
- Harborview/Stinson Roundabout Art update by Public Works Director Jeff Langhelm
- Historic Markers update with Puyallup Tribe presentation
- Harbor Arbor Art Project update by Commissioner Stevenson
- 2022 Budget discussion led by Chair Glock-Jackson
- Creative District Program report by Commissioner Avni
The Commission unanimously approved the text for historic markers proposed for the txwaalq9 Estuary. Members also reviewed updates on the Harborview/Stinson roundabout art project and discussed potential locations for future Harbor Arbor art installations.
- Approved June 9 and June 11 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved historic marker text for txwaalq9 Estuary (unanimous)
City Council Committees
The Board & Commission Candidate Review Committee is meeting to interview applicants for open positions on the Design Review Board and Parks Commission. The committee will also approve minutes from its June 21 meeting. This is a routine candidate review process, not a decision-making meeting on policy or budget.
- Interview Larry Bradbury for Design Review Board
- Interview Tom Brown for Design Review Board
- Interview Michael Kiley for Parks Commission
- Interview Peter Baker for Parks Commission
- Interview William Appleton for Parks Commission
The Board and Commission Candidate Review Committee approved its June 21, 2021 minutes unanimously. It interviewed Tom Brown for the Design Review Board but deferred any appointment decision because Larry Bradbury was unavailable and more candidates are to be interviewed. The committee interviewed Mike Kiley, Peter Baker and William Appleton for the Parks Commission and recommended William Appleton for the vacancy.
- Approved June 21, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
- Deferred Design Review Board appointment decision; interviewed Tom Brown, Larry Bradbury unavailable
- Recommended William Appleton for Parks Commission vacancy after interviewing Mike Kiley, Peter Baker and William Appleton
City Council
The City Council will consider a professional services contract for the Canterwood Blvd Emergency Water Intertie and a residential lease agreement for 7601 Soundview. The meeting also includes the acceptance of American Rescue Plan Act funds and a report on 2020 crime statistics.
- Authorization to accept American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Funds
- Professional Services Contract for Emergency Water Intertie – Canterwood Blvd
- Residential Lease Agreement Authorization – 7601 Soundview
- Approval of payroll totaling $472,688.95
- Approval of vouchers totaling $958,958.59
The Gig Harbor City Council unanimously approved a professional services contract with Carollo Engineers, Inc. for the Emergency Water Intertie on Canterwood Blvd, not to exceed $146,065. The council also unanimously authorized a one-year lease for the house at 7601 Soundview Drive with a minimum monthly rent of $3,000 plus leaseholder excise tax. The consent agenda, including acceptance of American Rescue Plan Act funds and police officer hiring, was approved unanimously. No substantive items were denied or tabled.
- Approved consent agenda including ARPA fund acceptance, police officer hiring, payroll and vouchers (unanimous)
- Authorized Mayor to execute $146,065 professional services contract with Carollo Engineers for Emergency Water Intertie on Canterwood Blvd (unanimous)
- Authorized Mayor to execute one-year lease for 7601 Soundview Drive at minimum $3,000/month plus leaseholder excise tax (unanimous)
- Adjourned at 6:55 p.m. (unanimous)
Lodging Tax Advisory Committee
The committee is reviewing the Lodging Tax Fund, which has an estimated 2021 revenue of $200,000. Members are also discussing the 2021 allocation process and updates regarding the 2021 Visitors Guide.
- Review of $200,000 estimated 2021 lodging tax revenue
- Discussion of 2021 LTAC allocation process for council review
- Update on 2021 Visitors Guide print and digital launches
- Review of expenditures from the Hotel-Motel Fund
- Update on Summer Sounds and Movies in the Park press releases
The committee approved the June 10 meeting minutes. A motion to approve $125,000 in grants for 2022 events was withdrawn to allow for further discussion and a vote at a special meeting on July 22, 2021.
- Approved June 10 minutes
- Withdrew motion to approve $125k in 2022 event grants for further discussion
Parks Commission
The City Council and Parks Commission will hold a joint study session to review scoped optional tasks for the 2022 Parks Recreation and Open Space (PROS) Plan. The session includes a review of a professional services contract with Conservation Technix, Inc.
- Review of Parks Recreation and Open Space (PROS) Plan optional tasks
- Professional services contract with Conservation Technix, Inc. not to exceed $62,340.00
- Projected completion of contract tasks by March 1, 2022
The City Council and Parks Commission held a joint study session to review the Parks Recreation and Open Space (PROS) Plan. No formal votes were taken during this meeting, as it was designated as a study session.
- Reviewed PROS Plan optional scope items
- Discussed public outreach strategies for the PROS Plan
City Council
The City Council and Parks Commission will hold a joint study session to review scoped optional tasks for the Parks Recreation and Open Space (PROS) Plan. This meeting is being held remotely due to public health concerns.
- Review of Parks Recreation and Open Space (PROS) Plan optional tasks
The City Council and Parks Commission met in a joint study session on July 8, 2021, to review the Parks Recreation and Open Space (PROS) Plan update. Councilmembers expressed support for maintaining the optional scope items as approved in the agreement with consultant Conservation Technix. Members also discussed the timing and effectiveness of public outreach, including public open houses. No formal votes or binding decisions were recorded; the minutes are a discussion record only.
- No formal votes or approvals recorded; council expressed support (no vote) to keep optional PROS Plan scope items as approved in the consultant agreement
- Discussed (no action) timing and effectiveness of public outreach such as public open houses
- Mayor reported (no action) on challenges renewing the PenLight franchise agreement that expired in 2015
Design Review Board
The Gig Harbor Design Review Board will hold a pre-application review for the Harbor History Museum's proposal to enclose the Maritime Gallery at 4121 Harborview Drive. The project involves adding walls and glazing within the existing building footprint, with no changes to the roof or massing. The board will provide early input on design standards, but no formal decisions will be made at this meeting. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from May 27 and June 10, 2021, and an Open Public Meetings Act training.
- Harbor History Museum Maritime Gallery enclosure (PL-DR-21-0164) at 4121 Harborview Drive
- Enclosure walls of board & batten siding and aluminum storefront glazing
- Reduced glazing to comply with 2018 Washington State Energy Code
- Approval of minutes from May 27 and June 10, 2021 meetings
- Open Public Meetings Act training
The Design Review Board reviewed a proposal to enclose an exterior wall of the Maritime Gallery at the Harbor History Museum, with no public comment and no vote recorded. The board also received Open Public Meetings Act training. Approval of the May 27 and June 10, 2021 minutes was moved to the next meeting, and the meeting adjourned at 5:40 PM.
- Reviewed Harbor History Museum Maritime Gallery enclosure proposal (PL-DR-21-0164); no vote recorded
- Moved approval of May 27 and June 10, 2021 minutes to next meeting
- Received Open Public Meetings Act training
- Adjourned at 5:40 PM (Ashlock/Filand, all in favor)
Parks Commission
The Gig Harbor Parks Commission is meeting to discuss updates to the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Plan and Parks Appreciation Day. They will also consider a proposal for a clean dog park at Shaw Park, which has been moved to the September 1 agenda. The meeting includes public comment opportunities.
- PROS Plan update discussion
- Parks Appreciation Day update
- Clean Dog Park proposal for Shaw Park moved to 9/1/21 agenda
- Public comment period
The Parks Commission approved its June 2, 2021 minutes and agreed by consensus to support the full consultant contract — base contract plus all additional options — for updating the PROS Plan, to be raised at the July 8 joint meeting with City Council. Parks Appreciation Day was deferred to a Spring 2022 event. No new business or public comment was recorded, and staff noted land use permits were submitted for the Austin Park Honoring Project.
- Approved June 2, 2021 Parks Commission minutes (unanimous)
- Consensus to support full PROS Plan consultant contract, base plus all options, for July 8 joint City Council meeting
- Parks Appreciation Day deferred to a Spring 2022 event
- Adjourned at 6:21 p.m. (unanimous)
City Council Committees
The Planning & Building Committee will discuss buildable lands, countywide planning policies, and employment target setting. The committee will also discuss special use permits related to COVID relief.
- Buildable Lands Report Status Update
- Countywide Planning Policies Discussion
- Employment Target Setting Introduction
- Special Use Permit COVID Relief Discussion
The Planning & Building Committee approved the minutes from May 3, 2021. The meeting included status updates and discussions on the Buildable Lands Report, Countywide Planning Policies, employment targets, and Special Use Permit COVID relief. No new ordinances, permits, or budget items were voted on or decided.
- Approved May 3, 2021 minutes (all in favor)
- Discussed Buildable Lands Report status update
- Discussed Countywide Planning Policies
- Discussed Employment Target Setting introduction
- Discussed Special Use Permit COVID Relief
- Adjourned meeting (all in favor)
Planning Commission
The Gig Harbor Planning Commission will hear a presentation from Senior Planner Carl de Simas on the periodic review of the city's Shoreline Master Program (SMP), including a survey of proposed amendments and a draft schedule for completing the update. The commission will also consider approving the minutes from the June 17, 2021 meeting. This is a discussion and review item, not a final decision.
- Review of proposed amendments to the Shoreline Master Program per Dept. of Ecology guidance
- Discussion of draft schedule for SMP periodic update, including public hearing on August 19, 2021
- Proposed amendment to permit public art on public property within Shoreline Jurisdiction
- Consultant contract with Grette and Associates for SMP update assistance
- Approval of minutes from June 17, 2021 meeting
The Planning Commission approved the minutes from the June 17, 2021, meeting. The commission held a presentation and discussion regarding the Shoreline Master Program Periodic Review.
- Approved June 17, 2021 minutes (all in favor)
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council is holding a special meeting to enter an executive session to discuss pending litigation, as permitted by state law. Action may be taken after the session. The agenda includes a reference to a document about a village amendment, but no other substantive items are listed.
- Executive session for pending litigation per RCW 42.10.110 (1)(i)
- Possible action after executive session
- Reference to R-1215_Village Amendment_062821.pdf
In a remote special meeting on June 28, 2021, the Gig Harbor City Council approved Resolution 1215 by a 6-1 vote, with Councilmember Franich opposed. The council also voted 7-0 to authorize the Mayor to execute an extension of the settlement agreement with OPG on terms discussed in executive session. The meeting included an executive session on pending litigation under RCW 42.10.110(1)(i) and adjourned at 5:34 p.m.
- Approved Resolution 1215 (6-1, Franich opposed)
- Authorized Mayor to execute extension of settlement agreement with OPG (7-0)
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council will hold public hearings and consider several resolutions and contracts, including adopting the six-year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) for 2022-2027, supporting employee engagement survey measures, and authorizing a Public Works Trust Fund loan application. They will also consider contract amendments, an easement release, a lease with the Chamber of Commerce, a construction contract for crosswalk improvements, and a property donation. The consent agenda includes approval of vouchers totaling $1,686,946.04.
- Public Hearing: Resolution 1212 – Adoption of Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) 2022-2027
- Resolution 1213 – Support for Recommended Measures in Response to 2020 Employee Engagement Survey
- Resolution 1214 – Public Works Trust Fund Loan Opportunities
- Approval of Vouchers for June 28, 2021: $1,686,946.04 (checks 95527-95626 and ACH payments)
- Gig Harbor North Crosswalk Improvements – Public Works Construction Contract Award
The City Council approved the 2022-2027 Transportation Improvement Program and several public works contracts. Other actions included approving a lease for the Chamber of Commerce and supporting employee engagement survey measures.
- Adopted Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program 2022-2027 (Unanimous)
- Approved support for 2020 Employee Engagement Survey measures (6-1)
- Approved Public Works Trust Fund Loan Opportunities (Unanimous)
- Approved $86,719 contract amendment for Community Paddlers Dock services (6-1)
- Approved release of utility easement at 9322 Goodman Avenue (Unanimous)
- Approved lease with Gig Harbor Chamber of Commerce at 3125 Judson Street (6-0)
- Awarded $479,952 contract to Sound Pacific Construction, LLC for crosswalk improvements (Unanimous)
- Approved $7,555 contract with Landau Associates, Inc. for environmental assessment (Unanimous)
City Council Committees
The Board & Commission Candidate Review Committee is conducting interviews for potential appointees. The meeting includes interviews for the Planning Commission and the Parks Commission.
- Interview: John Krawczyk for Planning Commission
- Interview: Brad Johnson for Planning Commission
- Interview: Doug Terrien for Parks Commission
The Board and Commission Candidate Review Committee unanimously recommended that the Mayor reappoint John Krawczyk to the Planning Commission after interviewing him and Brad Johnson. The committee also unanimously recommended Doug Terrien for appointment to the Parks Commission. The committee agreed by consensus to move its regular meeting time to the second Monday of each month at 3:00 p.m. The March 15 and March 22, 2021 minutes were unanimously approved with amendments.
- Recommended John Krawczyk for reappointment to Planning Commission (unanimous)
- Recommended Doug Terrien for appointment to Parks Commission (unanimous)
- Approved March 15 and March 22, 2021 minutes with amendments (unanimous)
- Agreed by consensus to move regular meetings to second Monday monthly at 3:00 p.m.
City Council Committees
The Finance and Safety Committee will consider early payoff of the 2010 LTGO and refunding bonds, with two scenarios presented. The meeting also includes approval of the May 17, 2021 minutes.
- Consideration for early payoff of 2010 LTGO and refunding bonds
- Agenda bill for Civic Center Refunding Bonds 2010
- Two refunding scenarios presented
The committee recommended that the City Council approve updates to the City Fee Schedule, including new charges for camera video redactions and wireless facility permits. The committee also recommended maintaining current fireworks violation penalties and referring bicycle speed concerns on the Cushman Trail to the Parks Commission.
- Recommended Council approve updates to the City Fee Schedule
- Recommended Council leave fireworks ordinance penalties as currently written
- Recommended referring Cushman Trail bicycle speed concerns to the Parks Commission
Planning Commission
The Gig Harbor Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting with an Open Public Meetings Act training video, nominate and elect officers per its bylaws, and receive updates from Senior Planner Carl deSimas on the Urban Growth Area (UGA) analysis and the Land-use/Arts and Culture Comprehensive Plan elements. The agenda is largely procedural and update-focused, with no public hearings or decision items listed.
- Open Public Meetings Act training video
- Nomination and election of officers per Bylaws Article III Section 1
- UGA Analysis update by Carl deSimas
- Land-use/Arts and Culture Comprehensive Plan elements update by Carl deSimas
The Planning Commission held officer elections and unanimously re-elected Greg Hoeksema as Chair and John Krawczyk as Vice Chair. Staff gave updates on the UGA Analysis and the Land-Use/Arts and Culture Comprehensive Plan Elements, but the minutes record no decisions on those items. The commission also discussed adding agenda items to meetings, a Grette update, and the status of Art in the Shoreline. The meeting adjourned at 6:09 p.m.; the next meeting is Thursday, July 1, 2021.
- Re-elected Greg Hoeksema as Chair (all in favor)
- Re-elected John Krawczyk as Vice Chair (all in favor)
- Adjourned the meeting at 6:09 p.m. (all in favor)
City Council
The City Council will hold a remote study session to discuss the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund. This meeting is for discussion purposes regarding the fiscal recovery fund.
- Discussion of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund
In a study session, the Gig Harbor City Council heard an overview of the $2.99 million in American Rescue Plan Act Local Fiscal Recovery Funds allocated to the city and four possible uses. Council expressed support for funding Civic Center HVAC improvements and Council Chambers audio/video improvements, and supported the North Well #9 project over the North Harborview Drive Sanitary Sewer replacement. Staff will look into using the funds for potential cost overruns on the Public Works Operations Center construction. No formal votes or final funding decisions were recorded; the meeting adjourned at 3:45 p.m.
- Expressed support for ARPA funding of Civic Center HVAC improvements (no vote recorded)
- Expressed support for ARPA funding of Council Chambers audio/video improvements (no vote recorded)
- Supported North Well #9 development over North Harborview Drive Sanitary Sewer replacement for ARPA funds (no vote recorded)
- Directed staff to explore using ARPA funds for potential Public Works Operations Center construction cost overruns (no vote recorded)
City Council Committees
The Gig Harbor Public Works Committee will review and discuss the Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) for 2022-2027, including project costs and updates. This is an action item, meaning the committee may take action on it. The meeting also includes approval of the May 11, 2021 minutes and a review of the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) tiers.
- Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program 2022-2027 update and project costs discussion (action item)
- Approval of May 11, 2021 meeting minutes
- CIP review across Tiers 1-4
The committee reviewed the revised Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) map and project costs. Following a discussion on construction cost indices and project prioritization, the committee recommended the TIP be moved to the full City Council for adoption.
- Approved May 11, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Recommended 2022-2027 Transportation Improvement Program for full Council adoption
- Suspended Annual Pavement Maintenance project to 2022
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council will hold public hearings on two items: first reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 1462 amending the Shoreline Master Program for art placement, and Amendment No. 1 to the Village at Harbor Hill Development Agreement. The council will also consider several contracts and resolutions, including a PROS Plan update contract, an Adopt-A-Park program, a 38th Avenue design contract amendment, a lease amendment with the Gig Harbor Canoe & Kayak Racing Team, and a resolution adopting the Homeport design concept. Consent agenda items include approval of payroll ($472,365.04) and vouchers ($1,522,274.81).
- Public hearing: Ordinance No. 1462 - SMP Art Placement Comp Plan Amendment
- Public hearing: Village at Harbor Hill Development Agreement Amendment No. 1
- Resolution 1209 to establish Adopt-A-Park Program
- 38th Avenue Phase 1a Design - Professional Services Contract Amendment #3
- Lease Amendment with Gig Harbor Canoe & Kayak Racing Team
The Gig Harbor City Council approved Amendment No. 1 to the Village at Harbor Hill Development Agreement 5-1, with Councilmember Franich opposed and Councilmember Himes abstaining. The council also adopted Ordinance No. 1462 amending the Shoreline Management Program's art placement comprehensive plan policies 6-1, and approved a professional services contract with Conservations Technix, Inc. for the Parks Recreation and Open Space Plan update not to exceed $62,340. A resolution adopting the Homeport design concept with Exhibit G dated June 1, 2021 passed 6-1, and the council approved a lease amendment with the Gig Harbor Canoe & Kayak Racing Team 6-1.
- Approved Consent Agenda including minutes, impact fee reports, Pierce County Range Agreement, and payroll/vouchers (unanimous)
- Adopted Ordinance No. 1462 amending SMP art placement comprehensive plan policies (6-1, Franich opposed)
- Approved Amendment No. 1 to Village at Harbor Hill Development Agreement (5-1, Franich opposed, Himes abstained)
- Approved professional services contract with Conservations Technix, Inc. for PROS Plan update not to exceed $62,340 (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 1209 establishing Adopt-A-Park Program with implementation dependent on Parks Division staffing capacity (6-1, Rodenberg opposed)
- Authorized Mayor to execute Professional Services Contract Amendment #3 with David Evans & Associates, Inc. for 38th Avenue Phase 1a design not to exceed $157,494.59 (6-1, Franich opposed)
- Approved Second Amendment to Ancich Park Lease with Gig Harbor Canoe & Kayak Racing Team requiring $100,000 donation by July 30, 2021 and $50,000 by April 15, 2022 (6-1, Franich opposed)
- Approved Resolution 1210 adopting Homeport design concept with Exhibit G dated June 1, 2021 (6-1, Himes opposed)
Arts Commission
The Gig Harbor Arts Commission is holding a special meeting to discuss historic markers with Jennifer Keating of the Puyallup Tribe. The agenda includes only this old business item, along with commissioner comments and announcements. No other substantive decisions are listed.
- Discussion of historic markers with Jennifer Keating, Puyallup Tribe
The Gig Harbor Arts Commission held a special virtual meeting on June 11, 2021. Commissioners discussed the historic markers signage project but postponed further review because the signage text was not available. The discussion was moved to the July 14 meeting agenda after a formal presentation by the Puyallup Tribe.
- Postponed discussion of historic markers project until July 14 meeting
Civil Service Commission
The Gig Harbor Civil Service Commission is meeting to certify a lateral entry hiring list and receive an update on the Sergeant Assessment Center. The agenda also includes the approval of minutes from the March 12, 2021, meeting.
- Certification of lateral entry hiring list
- Update on Sergeant Assessment Center
Lodging Tax Advisory Committee
The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee will review and approve minutes from April and May special meetings, receive updates on the 2021 Visitors Guide, trolley pledges, and press releases, and discuss awarded funds for kayak docks. The agenda also includes brainstorming for summer and fall media pitches and planning for the 75th Anniversary event.
- Review of April 21 and May 13 meeting minutes
- Update on 2021 Visitors Guide (print and digital)
- Trolley pledges received from Uptown, Heron's Key, Chamber, DWA; N/A from Inn at Gig Harbor
- Awarded funds to kayak docks: $100,000 per Council
- 75th Anniversary on July 12 with banner and proclamation
The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee approved its April 21 special meeting minutes and May 13 regular meeting minutes, both with all members voting in favor. The committee approved a motion that no second LTAC application for 2021 funds be allowed for GHSC, and approved a readjustment of funds already allocated. The committee also noted $100,000 per Council was awarded to kayak docks and received trolley pledges from Uptown, Heron's Key, the Chamber, and DWA, with the Inn at Gig Harbor listed as not applicable.
- Approved April 21 special meeting minutes with changes to original and amended award amounts (all approve)
- Approved May 13 regular meeting minutes (all approve)
- Approved motion: no second LTAC application for 2021 funds allowed for GHSC, with readjustment of allocated funds (all approve)
- Adjourned at 12:18 PM (all in favor)
Design Review Board
The Gig Harbor Design Review Board will continue reviewing the Burnham Drive Apartments project, focusing on the applicant's requests for design alternatives to the city's design manual. These include retaining walls over 6 feet, grading beyond the balanced standard, benches instead of landscaping along the primary walkway, and a parking garage enclosing more than 20 cars. The board will discuss and vote on these alternatives after receiving updated information from the applicant.
- 78-unit apartment complex at 9411 Burnham Dr, with five 3-story buildings, a 2-story carriage unit building, and a community building
- Request for retaining walls exceeding 6 feet (up to 10.87') to accommodate an ADA-compliant walkway
- Request to allow grading with a 20% cut/fill difference instead of the standard 10%
- Proposal to install two additional benches in lieu of 5-foot landscaping along parts of the primary walkway
- Parking garage under Building A encloses more than 20 vehicles, requiring DRB recommendation
The Design Review Board approved the applicant's landscape plan for the Burnham Drive Apartments as an equivalent solution to primary walkway standards. The board determined that wider landscaping areas combined with narrower areas met the requirement. The project will return for further review on July 22, 2021.
- Approved landscape plan for Burnham Drive Apartments (Filand/Druker in favor)
- Project tabled for further review on July 22, 2021
- Approval of May 27 minutes held until next meeting
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council is holding a study session to discuss two items: a stormwater revenue study and potential Public Works Trust Fund loan opportunities. No formal decisions are expected; this is a discussion-only meeting.
- Stormwater Revenue Study presented by Ashley Emery of Peninsula Financial Consulting
- Public Works Trust Fund Loan Opportunities discussion
At a June 10, 2021 study session, the Gig Harbor City Council discussed a stormwater revenue study and expressed support for eliminating the discount given to commercial customers over the next year or two. Staff said the change could cover upcoming capital costs without a near-term rate increase, and that staff will do public outreach with affected businesses. The council also reviewed Public Works Trust Fund loan opportunities, with four projects identified as potentially eligible; a resolution authorizing the loan application is expected at the June 28 council meeting ahead of the July 9 deadline. No formal votes were recorded at this study session.
- No formal votes recorded; study session only
- Council expressed support for eliminating the commercial stormwater discount over the next year or two
- Staff directed to conduct public outreach with affected businesses
- Four projects identified as potentially eligible for Public Works Trust Fund loans
- Loan application resolution expected at the June 28 City Council meeting (deadline July 9)
Arts Commission
The Gig Harbor Arts Commission is meeting virtually to approve minutes, hear a presentation from TCC Gig Harbor's dean about the Write in the Harbor Conference, and receive updates on old business items including historic markers, creative endeavor grants, and the Harborview/Stinson sidewalk art project. No new business items are listed.
- Presentation: 'Write in the Harbor Conference' by Olga Torres Inglebriston, Dean, TCC Gig Harbor Campus
- Update: Historic Markers
- Update: Creative Endeavor Grants
- Update: Harborview / Stinson Sidewalk Art Project
The Arts Commission unanimously approved the minutes of its May 11 special meeting and May 12 meeting. Commissioners heard a presentation from Olga Torres Inglebriston on Tacoma Community College's Write in the Harbor Conference, and Linda Sutherland volunteered to represent the commission if TCC forms an advisory committee. In old business, consultant William Grimes was introduced for the Comprehensive Plan Arts & Culture Element update, and the commission discussed the Endeavor Grant and Harbor Arbor tree-carving programs. No other substantive decisions were recorded; the Harborview/Stinson Sidewalk Art Project had no update, and final marker text was set for review at a June 11 special meeting.
- Approved minutes of the May 11, 2021 special meeting and May 12, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
- Linda Sutherland volunteered to represent the Arts Commission on a possible TCC Write in the Harbor Conference advisory committee
- Historic marker text finalized for review at the June 11 special meeting
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council is holding a study session to discuss a second amendment to the lease with the Gig Harbor Canoe and Kayak Race Team at Ancich Park. Public comment will be accepted during this discussion item. The meeting is accessible by phone or Zoom due to public health concerns.
- Discussion of second amendment to Gig Harbor Canoe and Kayak Race Team lease at Ancich Park
- Public comment accepted during the lease discussion
The City Council held a study session to discuss a proposed second amendment to the lease agreement for the Ancich Waterfront Park storage building. Council members expressed support for a 15-year lease extension contingent on a minimum donation of $150,000 from the racing team. No formal votes were taken during this session.
Parks Commission
The Gig Harbor Parks Commission will review the Level of Service Standards and Goals & Policies for the PROS Plan update, and discuss Parks Appreciation Day. The agenda includes old business on the PROS Plan and new business on Parks Appreciation Day, plus a parks update from the Public Works Director. The meeting is virtual via Zoom or phone.
- Review of PROS Plan Level of Service Standards and Goals & Policies
- Discussion of Parks Appreciation Day
- Approval of May 5, 2021 meeting minutes
- Public comment period with 3-minute speaking limit
The Gig Harbor Parks Commission voted unanimously to recommend that the City Council approve a contract with a consultant to lead and facilitate the update to the Parks Recreation and Open Spaces Plan, including organizing a robust community engagement program. Staff said the contract will go to the City Council on June 14, and that an approved plan is needed by the end of 2021 for future grant funding. The Commission also agreed by consensus to postpone a fall Parks Appreciation Day cleanup until April 2022 to focus on the PROS Plan and Adopt-A-Park program. The May 5, 2021 minutes were approved unanimously.
- Recommended City Council approve a consultant contract for the PROS Plan update, amended to include a robust community engagement program (unanimous)
- Approved May 5, 2021 Parks Commission minutes (unanimous)
- Consensus to wait until April 2022 for Parks Appreciation Day cleanup
- Adjourned at 6:52 p.m. (unanimous)
Design Review Board
The Design Review Board will continue its review of a proposal by West Harbor Corporate Park LLC for an assisted living and memory care facility. The discussion focuses on design alternatives regarding zone transition buffers, landscaping, and lighting to address previous board concerns.
- Proposed 95,100 square foot assisted living and memory care facility at 6622 Wollochet Dr. NW
- Development of 83 living units (71 assisted living and 12 memory care) on 4.46 acres
- Review of design alternatives for zone transition buffering and vegetation removal
- Discussion of lighting plans and requirements for the Tallman Annexation Concomitant Zoning Agreement
- Proposed site improvements including stormwater detention, parking, and pedestrian paths
The Gig Harbor Design Review Board approved the May 13, 2021 minutes as written and, on a motion by Filand and Ashlock with all members in favor, recommended approval of alternatives to the zone transition buffer standards under GHMC 17.99.200 for the proposed Mallards Landing Lot 7 assisted living and memory care facility at 6622 Wollochet Dr. NW. The board accepted the location of services, parking and driveway entrances, and open space as equivalent solutions, and conditioned lighting on recessed downward balcony lighting, downward directional lower-level wall sconces, and pole lights no taller than 20 feet. The board also proposed removing an existing maple tree on the westerly property line adjacent to Lot 2 of the R-1 zone and replacing it with newly planted dense screening similar to what is proposed south along that property line. The project is an approximately 95,100 square foot, three-story building with 83 living units on about 4.46 acres containing two Category IV wetlands.
- Approved May 13, 2021 minutes as written (all in favor)
- Recommended approval of GHMC 17.99.200 alternatives to zone transition standards for Mallards Landing Lot 7 assisted living facility (all in favor)
- Accepted location of services, loading and trash enclosure due to superior screening
- Conditioned lighting: recessed downward balcony lighting, downward directional lower-level wall sconces, pole lights no more than 20 feet
- Proposed removing existing maple tree on westerly property line adjacent to Lot 2 of R-1 zone, replaced with dense screening
- Found relocated parking and driveway entrances provide superior vegetative buffering and meet design criteria
- Found relocated driveway and larger continuous open space in northwest corner an equivalent open space solution
- Found retaining walls meeting 6-foot prescriptive height with screening an equivalent solution
City Council
This study session focuses on federal and state legislative updates. Council members will review reports from the 2021 end of session and discuss priorities for the 2022 legislative session.
- Federal Update from Dale Learn and Gordon Thomas Honeywell
- 2021 End Of Session Report from Josh Weiss and Annika Vaughn
- Discussion of 2022 Legislative Session Priorities
The Gig Harbor City Council held a study session on May 27, 2021, with no substantive decisions or votes recorded. Lobbyists from Gordon Thomas Honeywell gave a federal update and a 2021 end-of-session report, noting the City received $500,000 for the Sports Complex and the option to implement a multi-family tax exemption program. Council briefly discussed ideas for the 2022 legislative agenda, including additional Sports Complex support, fish culvert projects, and Public Works Trust Fund opportunities, referring further work to the Intergovernmental Affairs Committee. The meeting adjourned at 4:06 p.m.
City Council
The City Council will discuss the Ancich Homeport Feasibility Study and a professional services contract amendment for Ancich mitigation monitoring. The meeting also includes discussions on various city contracts and updates regarding the interim City Administrator.
- Ancich Mitigation Monitoring professional services contract amendment
- Resolution 1209 adopting the Ancich Homeport Feasibility Study
- 38th Avenue Improvements Phase 1a construction and testing contracts
- Resolution 1208 updates to the fee schedule
- Approval of $549,380.04 in vouchers and ACH payments
The Gig Harbor City Council voted 4-2 to reject Resolution 1209, which would have adopted the Ancich Homeport Feasibility Study with Alternative E. The council also voted 4-3 to rescind a prior vote on the Gig Harbor Canoe and Kayak Race Team lease at Ancich Park, and agreed to continue that discussion at a June 3 study session. In other actions, the council approved a $6,500 contract amendment for Ancich mitigation monitoring and approved the consent agenda 6-0 as amended.
- Approved consent agenda as amended, moving item No. 8 to New Business (6-0)
- Rescinded prior vote on Gig Harbor Canoe and Kayak Race Team lease at Ancich Park (4-3, Mayor Kuhn broke 3-3 tie)
- Approved Amendment No. 3 to Professional Services Contract with Davido Consulting Group for Ancich mitigation monitoring, not to exceed $6,500 (6-0)
- Resolution 1209 adopting Ancich Homeport Feasibility Study with Alternative E failed (4-2)
- Agreed to continue discussion of Canoe and Kayak Race Team lease at a study session on June 3 at 3:00 p.m.
- Approved vouchers for May 24, 2021: Checks 95319 through 95421 and ACH payments totaling $549,380.04 (as part of consent agenda)
Hearing Examiner Hearings
The Hearing Examiner will review a proposal by the Public Works Department to demolish an existing dock system and install a replacement dock at 3525 Harborview Drive. The project involves replacing a 1,096 square foot solid-deck dock with a 1,614 square foot grated-deck dock.
- Demolition of existing gangway, floats, and fourteen 16-inch diameter creosote-treated timber piles
- Installation of a new 1,614 square foot dock with 45% open area via grated decking
- Net increase of 518 square feet of overwater coverage
- Installation of five steel guide piles and 24 grounding posts
- Construction of an 80-foot long gangway
City Council Committees
The Finance and Safety Committee is reviewing proposed changes to fireworks ordinance violation penalties and updates to the 2021 City Fee Schedule. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding bicycle speeds on the Cushman Trail.
- Proposed revision of fireworks violation penalties to a maximum of $1,000 or community service
- Proposed adoption of Resolution 1208 for the 2021 Fee Schedule
- Updates to public records request fees, including $60.25 per hour for police video redactions
- New dog licensing fees ranging from $5.00 for seniors to $100.00 for dangerous dogs
- Discussion of bicycle speed on Cushman Trail
The Finance and Safety Committee voted to recommend leaving the current $1,000 fireworks violation penalty unchanged, after reviewing two proposed alternatives. It also agreed to recommend Council approve a resolution updating the City Fee Schedule, including new fees for police body/dash camera redaction time, fingerprinting cards, and a Small Wireless Facility Permit. A citizen concern about bicycle speed on the Cushman Trail was referred to the Parks Commission for follow-up. No final Council action was taken; these are committee recommendations.
- Recommended keeping fireworks violation penalty at $1,000 (no vote tally recorded)
- Recommended Council approve resolution updating the City Fee Schedule (no vote tally recorded)
- Referred Cushman Trail bicycle speed concern to Parks Commission (no vote tally recorded)
Design Review Board
The Design Review Board will review two development proposals: a mixed-use project on Pioneer Way and a 78-unit apartment complex on Burnham Drive. The board will evaluate these projects regarding site design and architectural requirements.
- Pioneer Way Mixed Use Development: two buildings with ground floor commercial and residential units
- Burnham Drive Apartments: 78-unit multi-family complex on 4.45 acres
- Public hearing for Pioneer Way Mixed Use Development
The Design Review Board approved minutes from March 25, April 8, and April 22, 2021, and reviewed two projects. For the Pioneer Way Mixed Use Development, the board passed seven unanimous motions finding the design superior or equivalent to specific design standards. For the Burnham Drive Apartments, a motion failed for lack of a second, and the board continued the item to June 10, 2021, requesting additional information from the applicant.
- Approved March 25, April 8, and April 22, 2021 minutes as written (unanimous)
- Pioneer Way: found mass & scale superior to GHMC 17.99.380D (unanimous)
- Pioneer Way: found natural topography design exceptional under GHMC 17.99.240C (unanimous)
- Pioneer Way: found alternative zone transition equivalent under GHMC 17.99.200 (unanimous)
- Pioneer Way: recommended parking orientation and sidewalk changes for primary walkway standard GHMC 17.99.260D (unanimous)
- Pioneer Way: found parking lot design equivalent to GHMC 17.99.330F (unanimous)
- Pioneer Way: found prominent facades superior to GHMC 17.99.400A (unanimous)
- Pioneer Way: found window design superior to GHMC 17.99.530 (unanimous)
Lodging Tax Advisory Committee
The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee reviewed grant applications and existing fund allocations. The committee decided to award $5,000 to the Gig Harbor Sportsmans Club for tree planting by reallocating funds from other approved grants.
- Awarded $5,000 to Gig Harbor Sportsmans Club for tree planting
- Awarded $1,000 for WSWGA State Championship marketing
- Awarded $4,000 for 2021 Peninsula Cider Festival
- Awarded $15,000 for Harbor History Museum marketing and 10th anniversary
- Awarded $6,000 for Eddon Boatyard Tour Program
The committee received updates on digital guides, advertising spend, and event lineups. No substantive decisions were made during the meeting.
- Approval of April 21 minutes deferred
Arts Commission
The Commission recommended awarding a $5,000 Creative Endeavor grant to Dennis Larry Fowler for a poetry series program. The Commission also discussed updates on the Harborview/Stinson sidewalk art project and the Arts & Culture element of the Comprehensive Plan.
- Recommended $5,000 grant award to Dennis Larry Fowler for Poetry Series Program
- Approved $15,000 consultant funding for Arts & Culture Comprehensive Plan update
- Authorized letter of support for Shoreline Master Plan variance for Austin Park sculpture
- Re-opened applications for remaining $5,000 in Creative Endeavor grant funds
The Arts Commission approved the minutes of its April 14, 2021 meeting and the May 6, 2021 special meeting. The commission heard updates on the Creative Endeavor grant, the Harborview/Stinson sidewalk art project, the Locks of Love proposal, and historic markers, but took no new votes on those items. No new business was brought before the commission.
- Approved April 14, 2021 and May 6, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Decided to remove the Locks of Love art installation idea from future agendas but keep it for later consideration
- Decided to wait until the Harborview/Stinson sidewalk art project moves forward before reviewing the call to artists
- Historic markers item held over to the next meeting for further review
City Council Committees
The Public Works Committee is reviewing the 2022-2027 Six-Year Transportation Improvement Plan and a request to release a vacant easement at 9322 Goodman Ave. The committee will also discuss the PROS Plan update and human powered craft storage implementation.
- Release of easement at 9322 Goodman Ave
- Six-Year Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) 2022-2027
- PROS Plan Update
- Ancich Human Powered Craft Storage Implementation
- Capital Improvement Program (CIP) review for Tiers 1 through 4
The Public Works Committee approved its April 13 minutes and recommended sending a request to release an undeveloped 15-ft easement at 9322 Goodman Ave to the full City Council for a decision, including whether the City can receive compensation. It also recommended starting public engagement on June 21, 2021 on current parks operations and maintenance needs and costs, then returning to the City Council with level-of-service standards. The committee reviewed the draft Six-Year Transportation Improvement Plan 2022-2027, which is scheduled for public hearing and adoption at the June 28 council meeting, and discussed rental terms for the Ancich Park human-powered craft storage building, with fees still to be decided by City Council.
- Approved April 13, 2021 Public Works Committee minutes (unanimous)
- Recommended sending the 9322 Goodman Ave easement release request to full City Council for decision, including possible compensation
- Recommended starting public engagement on June 21, 2021 on current parks O&M needs and costs, then returning to City Council with LOS standards
- Reviewed Six-Year TIP 2022-2027; public hearing and adoption scheduled for June 28 council meeting
- Discussed Ancich craft storage rental terms; fee schedule to be decided later by City Council
- Adjourned at 5:21 p.m. (unanimous)
Arts Commission
The Gig Harbor Arts Commission held a special non-site gathering at the Austin Park/History Museum Site. The meeting focused on old business regarding the Historic Trail Markers proposal by Lita Dawn Stanton.
- Historic Trail Markers Proposal – Lita Dawn Stanton
The Arts Commission held a special meeting at Austin Park to discuss historic trail marker signage on concrete pylons. Dawn Stanton and Linda Pitcher presented the project's history and vision, including five stories on four pylons about the area's tribal and natural history. Commissioners discussed text length, QR codes, and numbering, but no formal decisions or votes were recorded. Fabrication and installation estimates are pending, with a follow-up presentation expected, possibly at the June meeting.
City Council
The City Council is meeting to discuss several new business items, including lease agreements and professional service contracts. A primary focus is the adoption of Ordinance 1460, which regulates fireworks discharge in the city.
- Adoption of Ordinance 1461 amending Special Events
- Gig Harbor Canoe and Kayak Race Team lease amendment at Ancich Park
- Murphy’s Landing Marina Navigation Channel Dredge Agreement
- Sports Complex Lease Agreement with YMCA
- Approval of April payroll totaling $468,879.08
The Gig Harbor City Council approved a lease agreement with the YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties for the Sports Complex Phase 1A improvements, along with a dredging agreement for Murphy's Landing Marina, a professional services contract with 3J Consulting Inc. not to exceed $60,060.00, and an amended lease with the Gig Harbor Canoe and Kayak Race Team. The council also adopted Ordinance 1461 amending special events rules on first reading, and approved the consent agenda including payroll and vouchers. All substantive motions passed 6-0 or 6-1, with Councilmember Franich voting no on Ordinance 1461.
- Approved consent agenda including payroll of $468,879.08 and vouchers of $2,231,908.07 (unanimous)
- Adopted Ordinance 1461 amending GHMC 5.28 Special Events on first reading (6-1, Franich no)
- Approved amended Ancich Park lease with Gig Harbor Canoe and Kayak Race Team, setting one 5-year term starting July 1, 2021 (6-0)
- Approved dredging agreement with Murphy's Landing Marina (6-0)
- Approved professional services contract with 3J Consulting Inc. for on-call private development review, not to exceed $60,060.00 (6-0)
- Authorized Mayor to sign YMCA lease for Sports Complex Phase 1A improvements (6-0)
- Adjourned at 8:04 p.m. (unanimous)
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding an amendment to the Shoreline Master Program. The proposal seeks to add a new definition for "Public Art" and establish guidelines for placing public art along the City's shoreline.
- Public hearing: Shoreline Master Program Amendment – Public Art
- Proposed addition of "Public Art" definition to the Shoreline Master Program
- Establishment of placement regulations for public art along the shoreline
The Planning Commission approved forwarding a staff-recommended amendment regarding Public Art Regulations within the Shoreline Management Program to the City Council for final approval.
- Approved April 29, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
- Forwarded staff-recommended Shoreline Management Program Public Art Regulation amendment to City Council (unanimous)
Arts Commission
The Gig Harbor Arts Commission is holding a special remote meeting to discuss the Creative Endeavor Grant Program. The commission will conduct applicant interviews and review program applications.
- Creative Endeavor Grant Program applicant interviews
- Review of grant applications
The Gig Harbor Arts Commission held a remote special meeting on May 6, 2021, to interview Creative Endeavor Grant Program applicant Dennis Larry Fowler about his poetry series proposal. After deliberating and tallying scores, the commission voted 5-0 to forward a recommendation to the City Council to award Fowler $5,000 for the Poetry Series Program. The recommendation was set to go to the Council's May 10, 2021 meeting for approval. The meeting adjourned at 5:40 p.m.
- Recommended awarding Dennis Larry Fowler $5,000 for the Poetry Series Program, forwarded to City Council for approval (5-0)
City Council
The City Council will review a 35-year lease agreement with the YMCA for the Gig Harbor Sports Complex. The lease includes terms for community benefits, public use of facilities, and a $1 annual rent.
- YMCA Sports Complex Phase 1A Lease Agreement
- City contribution of approx. $100,000 for sewer line connection
- City contribution of approx. $110,000 for water main and fire hydrants
- City contribution of approx. $60,000 for East/West retaining walls
- Executive session to consider real estate acquisition
The City Council approved a motion authorizing the Mayor to execute a purchase and sale agreement for real estate. The Council reviewed a draft lease for the YMCA Sports Complex Phase 1A, which is scheduled for adoption on May 10.
- Authorized Mayor to execute real estate purchase and sale agreement (6-1)
- Selected Councilmembers Himes, Woock, and Franich for employee engagement survey committee
Hearing Examiner Hearings
The Gig Harbor Hearing Examiner will hold a public hearing to review three development proposals. These include a taproom redevelopment, marina office and bulkhead repairs, and a land rezoning request.
- Redevelopment of 10809 32nd St. Ct. for 7-Seas Tap Room, including a new 6,000 square foot structure
- Marina redevelopment at 10809 32nd St. Ct. to reduce overwater coverage by 628 square feet
- Harborview Marina office replacement and bulkhead stabilization at 3219 Harborview Drive
- Rezoning of 11302 Burnham Drive from Employment District and Single-Family Residential to General Business
Parks Commission
The Commission is reviewing a proposed Adopt-A-Park program for volunteer maintenance and discussing rental terms for the Ancich human-powered boat storage facility. Members are also working on a park facility inventory for the 2022 PROS Plan update.
- Proposed Adopt-A-Park program for volunteer maintenance and litter control
- Discussion of rental terms and craft types for Ancich Human-Powered Boat Storage
- Inventory of Parks Facilities discussion for the 2022 PROS Plan update
- Election of Commission Officers (Chair and Vice Chair)
The Gig Harbor Parks Commission approved Resolution 2021-02 creating a draft Adopt-A-Park program for presentation to City Council, and unanimously elected Ben Coronado as Chair and Mary Barber as Vice-Chair. It also approved the April 7, 2021 minutes with a spelling correction. The Commission discussed the 2022 PROS Plan update, Ancich human-powered boat storage rental terms, and an Eagle Scout flagpole proposal for Veteran Memorial Park, but took no formal action on those items.
- Approved April 7, 2021 minutes with correction to spelling of Marlene Druker's last name
- Approved Parks Commission Resolution 2021-02 (Adopt-A-Park program) with suggested edits, for presentation to City Council (unanimous)
- Elected Ben Coronado as Parks Commission Chair (unanimous)
- Elected Mary Barber as Parks Commission Vice-Chair (unanimous)
- Adjourned at 8:06 p.m. (unanimous)
City Council Committees
The Planning & Building Committee is reviewing proposed annual growth rates to inform the City's 2024-2044 Comprehensive Plan update. Staff is seeking a recommendation on an assumed average annual growth rate ranging from 1.3% to 1.7%.
- Discussion of residential growth targets for the 2024-2044 planning period
- Staff recommendation to increase persons per household assumption to 2.20
- Review of Comprehensive Plan Amendments and Annexation Analysis updates
- Analysis of population growth scenarios ranging from 1.3% to 1.7% annual rates
The Planning & Building Committee approved the April 5, 2021 minutes as written and heard a staff presentation and discussion on residential growth targets. Staff reported that consultant selections were made for the Comprehensive Plan Update, including the Cultural Art amendment and the Annexation Analysis, with contracts coming to Council on the next meeting's Consent Agenda. The committee also discussed zoning and comprehensive map alignment. No substantive decisions beyond approving prior minutes were recorded.
- Approved April 5, 2021 minutes as written (all in favor)
- Heard staff presentation and discussion on residential growth targets (no action)
- Received update on Comprehensive Plan Amendments and Annexation Analysis; contracts to go to Council Consent Agenda (no action)
- Discussed zoning and comprehensive map alignment under Council Comments (no action)
- Adjourned at 4:35 P.M. (all in favor)
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission is holding a study session regarding proposed amendments to the Shoreline Master Program. The discussion focuses on defining public art and establishing it as a permitted use in certain shoreline areas, including wetland buffers and the public right-of-way.
- Proposed definition of 'Public Art' to include works created through a public process
- Proposed allowance for public art within the public right-of-way
- Proposed permission for public art within wetland buffers and vegetation conservation strips
- Proposed regulation limiting public art to a maximum of 200 square feet or 1% of lot size
The Planning Commission approved the April 15, 2021 minutes as written and held a study session on amendments to the Shoreline Master Program related to public art, including changes to definitions such as Public Right of Way and location wording. No decisions were made on the amendment itself; it was discussed only. The meeting adjourned at 6:05 p.m., with a joint public hearing scheduled for May 6, 2021 at 6:00 PM.
- Approved April 15, 2021 meeting minutes as written (all in favor)
- Held study session on Shoreline Master Program amendment regarding public art; no action taken
- Adjourned at 6:05 p.m. (all in favor)
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council is holding a study session to conduct a detailed discussion regarding the first quarter budget status report. This meeting is being held remotely due to public health concerns.
- First quarter budget status report discussion
The Gig Harbor City Council held a remote study session on April 29, 2021. City Administrator Bob Larson gave an overview of the City's 2021 Budget first quarter status report, and HR Director Kameil Borders described difficulties filling vacancies across departments. Department heads reported on the status of their budget funds and explained reasons for delays or cost overruns. No decisions, votes, or approvals are recorded in these minutes; the meeting adjourned at 5:25 p.m.
City Council
The City Council held a first reading of an ordinance to limit fireworks discharge to the Fourth of July. They also approved a $500 structural analysis for the Eddon Boat Brick House chimney and authorized three professional services contracts for conservation futures grant applications.
- First reading of Ordinance to amend fireworks regulations
- Approved $500 structural analysis for Eddon Boat Brick House chimney
- Authorized three professional services contracts for 2021 conservation futures grant application
- Approved vouchers and ACH payments totaling $513,500.74
- Adopted Ordinance 1457 regarding Transportation Benefit District assumption
The Gig Harbor City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1460 amending fireworks regulations, passing 6-1 after a failed amendment to also allow discharge on the Saturday before July 4. Council also approved Resolution 1206 lodging tax grants 4-2, with one abstention, and authorized three contracts: use of Port Orchard's decant facility (7-0), an artist services contract amendment (7-0), and a $4,760 SHKS Architects contract amendment (7-0). The consent agenda, including $513,500.74 in vouchers, was approved unanimously as amended. A motion to move Old Business ahead of the Staff Report died for lack of a second.
- Adopted Ordinance 1460 limiting fireworks to one day (6-1)
- Amendment to also allow fireworks the Saturday before July 4 failed (4-3)
- Adopted Resolution 1206 lodging tax grants (4-2, Rodenberg abstained)
- Approved consent agenda as amended, including $513,500.74 in vouchers (unanimous)
- Authorized use of Port Orchard decant facility for vactor waste (7-0)
- Approved Amendment #2 to artist services contract with Guy Capoeman (7-0)
- Approved Amendment No. 6 with SHKS Architects, not to exceed $4,760 (7-0)
- Motion to move Old Business before Staff Report died for lack of a second
Hearing Examiner Hearings
The Hearing Examiner will hold a public hearing regarding a proposal for a new mini storage complex at 5116 89th Street. The project involves a three-story building totaling 78,375 gross square feet with 509 rentable units. The hearing will address a Conditional Use Permit, site plan review, and design review applications.
- Proposed 78,375 gross square foot Skansie Ministorage complex
- Conditional Use Permit for ministorage development at 5116 89th Street
- Development of 509 rentable units across three stories
- Alternative Landscape Plan to allow removal of seven significant trees
Design Review Board
The Design Review Board will consider a proposal for an 83-unit assisted living and memory care facility at 6916 Wagner Way. The applicant is seeking design alternatives regarding zone transition buffering and maintaining natural topography. The project involves a three-story building on approximately 4.46 acres of land.
- Assisted living facility proposal: 83 units (71 assisted living, 12 memory care) at 6916 Wagner Way
- Proposed 94,680 to 95,100 square foot three-story building at Mallards Landing Lot 7
- Request for design alternatives regarding 40-foot zone transition vegetative buffers
- Request for design alternatives regarding maintaining natural topography and grading
The Design Review Board reviewed the Mallards Landing assisted living and memory care facility proposed for 6916 Wagner Way. The Board approved a retaining wall exceeding the 6-foot height limit, finding it acceptable if additional landscaping is planted along its base. The Board also directed the applicant to revise several design elements—including service area enclosures, lighting, parking layout, and tree retention—and bring the project back for further review. No final approval of the overall project was recorded.
- Found 8.5-ft retaining wall acceptable with added landscaping (all in favor)
- Directed applicant to revise service area enclosures, lighting, parking, and tree retention, and return to DRB (all in favor)
- Adjourned meeting at 7:45 PM (all in favor)
City Council
The City Council is holding a special meeting conducted remotely via Zoom due to public health concerns. The agenda consists of an Auditor Exit Conference.
- Auditor Exit Conference
The City Council held a special remote meeting to receive the 2019 audit exit report from the State Auditor's Office, presented by Zachary Wilson and Carol Ehlinger. The City received a clean audit report with no negative findings. No other decisions were recorded; the meeting adjourned at 3:21 p.m.
- Received 2019 state audit exit report; clean audit with no negative findings
Lodging Tax Advisory Committee
The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee met to review grant applications and existing allocations. The committee approved several funding awards for local marketing, events, and programs, bringing the total current allocation to $49,000.
- $15,000 for Harbor History Museum marketing and 10th Anniversary Harbor Rocks
- $10,000 for Gig Harbor Canoe and Kayak Racing Team Narrows Challenge
- $7,000 for United by Music Make Music Day
- $6,000 for Gig Harbor Boat Shop Eddon Boatyard Tour Program
- $5,000 for Gig Harbor Foundation Cider Swig
The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee reviewed and reconsidered grant applications, voting 6-1 to award $5,000 to the Gig Harbor Sportsmans Club for tree planting by reallocating funds from existing awards. The revised total allocation of $50,000 includes specific amounts for several local events and organizations. The recommendations are scheduled to go before the city council on April 26, 2021.
- Awarded $1,000 for Washington State Women's Golf Association Championship event marketing
- Awarded $4,000 for 2021 Peninsula Cider Festival
- Awarded $15,000 for Harbor History Museum marketing and 10th anniversary expenses
- Awarded $6,000 for Make Music Day: Fest4All event expenses
- Awarded $6,000 for Gig Harbor Boat Shop Eddon Boatyard Tour Program
- Awarded $5,000 for Peninsula Art League Open Juried Show and Art Workshop
- Awarded $8,000 for Gig Harbor Canoe and Kayak Racing Team Narrows Challenge
- Awarded $5,000 to Gig Harbor Sportsmans Club for tree planting (6-1 vote)
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission is conducting a study session regarding proposed amendments to the Shoreline Master Program. The discussion focuses on defining 'Public Art' to include murals and establishing specific rules for allowing art installations within wetland buffer areas.
- Discussion of amending Chapter 2 SMP to include murals in the definition of Public Art
- Proposed amendment to allow public art in wetland buffers under specific conditions
- Proposed requirement that Category I wetland public art be located at least 75 percent of the buffer width from the wetland edge
- Review of proposed amendments to SMP Chapters 2, 6, and 7
The Planning Commission approved the minutes from the April 1, 2021 meeting. The main agenda item was a discussion with staff regarding the Shoreline Management Program's public art regulations, specifically focusing on definitions and criteria for public art in wetland buffers. No final decisions or votes on the public art regulations were recorded in these minutes.
- Approved April 1, 2021 minutes (all in favor)
- Discussed public art definitions and wetland buffer criteria (no vote recorded)
- Adjourned meeting (all in favor)
Arts Commission
The commission will review updates regarding the Arts & Culture Element of the Comprehensive Plan and the Creative Endeavor Grant Program. Members will also receive updates on the Harborview / Stinson Sidewalk Art Project, Historic Markers, and Locks of Love.
- Arts & Culture Element of the Comprehensive Plan Update
- Creative Endeavor Grant Program Update
- Harborview / Stinson Sidewalk Art Project Update
- Historic Markers Update
- Locks of Love Update
The Gig Harbor Arts Commission approved the minutes from February and March 2021 and voted to re-open applications for a $5,000 Creative Endeavor Grant. The Commission also authorized a letter of support for a Shoreline Master Plan variance regarding the 'Our Fisherman – Our Guardian' sculpture at Austin Park.
- Approved February 10, 2021 meeting minutes as amended (5 yes, 1 abstention)
- Approved March 10, 2021 meeting minutes as presented (unanimously approved)
- Approved re-opening acceptance of applications for the remaining $5,000 Creative Endeavor Grant (unanimously approved)
- Authorized the Commission Chair to write a letter of support for a Shoreline Master Plan variance to place the 'Our Fisherman – Our Guardian' sculpture at Austin Park (unanimously approved)
City Council Committees
The Public Works Committee will discuss a draft agreement for dredging at Murphy’s Landing Marina. Members will also review water franchise agreements and the 2021 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) pavement rating system.
- Murphy’s Landing Marina Navigation Channel Dredge Draft Agreement
- Water Franchise Agreements discussion
- Pavement Rating System Review
- 2021 CIP Schedule Review (Tier 1 and 2)
The committee recommended a draft agreement for the City to handle design and permitting for dredging at Murphy’s Landing Marina, while the marina covers dredging costs. Members also discussed establishing water franchise agreements and reviewed the city's pavement rating system and CIP schedule.
- Approved March 9, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
- Recommended presenting dredging agreement to Murphy’s Landing Marina for signature
- Recommended notifying all city water purveyors of intent to establish franchise agreements
- Adjourned meeting at 5:00 p.m. (unanimous)
City Council
The City Council debated a proposal for an employee engagement professional services contract. After several failed amendments, the Council voted 4-3 to form a committee led by the City Administrator to decide how to proceed with the consultant program.
- Employee engagement contract proposal with Nash Consulting for $43,000
- Formation of a committee to report on consultant training by May 24
- First reading of ordinance for City assumption of Transportation Benefit District
- First reading of ordinance amending the 2021 Budget regarding salary ranges
- First reading of ordinance for Ancich Waterfront overwater structures rules
The City Council approved several ordinances, including the assumption of the Transportation Benefit District and updated salary ranges. The council also authorized professional services for conservation grants and a structural analysis of the Eddon Boat Brick House chimney.
- Approved Consent Agenda (7-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 1457 for City Assumption of the Transportation Benefit District (7-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 1458 to amend 2021 Budget for updated salary ranges (7-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 1459 regarding Ancich Waterfront Overwater Structures (7-0)
- Approved $500 structural analysis of Eddon Boat Brick House chimney (7-0)
- Authorized three professional services contracts for 2021 conservation futures grant application (7-0)
- Held first reading of ordinance to limit fireworks discharge to July 4th (no vote recorded)
Design Review Board
The Board will review design alternatives for the Canterwood Commercial Center and the Bujacich Industrial Building. Discussions include tree removal mitigation for a commercial site and site design requirements for an industrial warehouse.
- Canterwood Commercial Center: proposal to remove two significant Douglas Fir trees at 10700 Canterwood Blvd.
- Canterwood Commercial Center: proposed construction of four commercial buildings totaling 28,278 square feet.
- Canterwood Commercial Center: proposed 9,000-square-foot parking garage and drive-through facilities.
- Bujacich Industrial Building: proposed 11,250 square-foot building with warehouse and office space.
- Bujacich Industrial Building: request for design alternative recommendation regarding Article III: Site Design.
The Design Review Board approved a design alternative for the Canterwood Commercial Center allowing removal of two significant fir trees within the Canterwood Boulevard Enhancement Corridor. The Board also approved a design alternative recommendation for the Bujacich Industrial Building related to Article III: Site Design requirements. Both motions carried with all members present in favor. No minutes were approved and no public comment was allowed at the virtual meeting.
- Approved design alternative for Canterwood Commercial Center to remove two significant fir trees (All in favor)
- Approved design alternative recommendation for Bujacich Industrial Building under GHMC 17.99.240(D) (All in favor)
- Adjourned meeting at 5:28 pm (All in favor)
Lodging Tax Advisory Committee
The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee is reviewing spring 2021 grant applications and discussing the 2021 Digital Visitors Guide. The committee is also tracking status for Summer Sounds band confirmations and rack card production.
- Review of LTAC Spring 2021 applications including Canterwood Ladies Golf Association and Gig Harbor Foundation Cider Swig
- Review of Harbor History Museum marketing and 10th Anniversary Harbor Rocks
- Review of Gig Harbor Boat Shop Eddon Boatyard Tour Program
- Status of Harbor WildWatch and GHDWA contracts
- Summer Sounds event permitting and band confirmations
The committee approved grant funding for several local events and marketing programs. Members also reviewed the 2021 Digital Visitors Guide and discussed short-term rental statistics.
- Approved $1,000 marketing grant for Canterwood Ladies Golf Association
- Approved $5,000 grant for Gig Harbor Foundation Cider Swig
- Approved $15,000 grant for Harbor History Museum
- Approved $7,000 grant for United by Music Make Music Day
- Approved $6,000 grant for Gig Harbor Boat Shop Eddon Boatyard Tour Program
- Approved $5,000 grant for Peninsula Art League Open Juried Art Show
- Approved $10,000 grant for Gig Harbor Canoe and Kayak Racing Team The Narrows Challenge
- Approved February 2021 meeting minutes
Parks Commission
The Commission will discuss the inventory of park facilities for the 2022 PROS Plan and the creation of an Adopt-A-Park program. The meeting also includes updates on the Harbor History Museum and Ancich human-powered storage.
- Inventory of Parks Facilities discussion for 2022 PROS Plan
- Adopt-A-Park Program creation discussion
- Harbor History Museum update
- Ancich Human-Powered Storage discussion
The Commission approved the March 3, 2021 meeting minutes. Members discussed the 2022 PROS Plan update, a proposed Adopt-A-Park program, and storage layouts for Ancich Human-Powered Storage.
- Approved March 3, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
City Council Committees
The Planning & Building Committee is reviewing a parking analysis for the Downtown Waterfront Alliance and receiving updates on growth target allocations and SSHAP. The meeting includes a presentation on parking supply and utilization patterns in the waterfront districts.
- Downtown Waterfront Alliance Parking Analysis presentation
- Growth Target Allocation Update
- SSHAP Update
- Review of 2,877 total parking spaces including public, private, marina, and church lots
The committee approved the minutes from the March 1, 2021, meeting. The session included presentations and updates regarding downtown parking, growth target allocations, and the SSHAP, as well as a discussion on the Himes variance process.
- Approved March 1, 2021 minutes (all in favor)
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission held a study session regarding a proposal to allow public art as a permitted use on City-owned property within shoreline areas. The discussion focused on defining 'public art' and establishing regulations to ensure ecological functions are not compromised. A joint public comment period with the WA State Dept. of Ecology is tentatively scheduled to begin April 6, 2021.
- Study session on Shoreline Master Program Public Art Regulation
- Proposed amendment to allow public art on City-owned parcels within shoreline designations
- Proposed definition of 'Public Art' to include sculptures, statues, murals, and memorials
- Proposed regulations for art placement within vegetation conservation strips and wetland buffers
The Planning Commission approved the minutes of its March 18, 2021 meeting as written. The main agenda item was a presentation and discussion on the Shoreline Master Program's public art regulation, led by Principal Planner Carl de Simas, with commission questions and discussion. No recommendation or decision was made on that item; continued discussion and a recommendation are scheduled for the next meeting on April 15, 2021. The meeting adjourned at 6:53 p.m.
- Approved March 18, 2021 meeting minutes as written (all in favor)
- Heard presentation and discussed Shoreline Master Program – Public Art Regulation; no action taken
- Set continued Shoreline Master Program – Public Art Regulation discussion and recommendation for April 15, 2021
- Adjourned meeting at 6:53 p.m. (all in favor)
Design Review Board
The Board will decide whether to remove the Eddon Boat Brick House from the City Register of Historic Properties following unauthorized chimney removal. They will also consider a Certificate of Appropriateness for relocating a heat pump and rebuilding the chimney at 3805 Harborview Drive.
- Decision on Eddon Boat Brick House listing on City Register of Historic Properties
- Certificate of Appropriateness for Eddon Boat Park Brick House remodel (PL-HR-21-0001)
- Proposed heat pump relocation at 3805 Harborview Drive
- Proposed brick chimney rebuild at 3805 Harborview Drive
The Design Review Board voted to maintain the Brick House's status on the City Register of Historical Properties. The board approved the reconstruction of a brick chimney and the installation of a mini-split heat pump at a specific location.
- Approved keeping the Brick House on the Historic Registry (Unanimous)
- Approved rebuilding the brick chimney to preserve historic appearance (Unanimous)
- Approved installation of a mini-split heat pump provided service and drain lines are not visible on the brick exterior (Unanimous)
- Approved February 25, 2021 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
City Council
The City Council will hold a special meeting on March 25, 2021. The session includes a legislative session update with Representative Jesse Young.
- Legislative session update with Representative Jesse Young
The Gig Harbor City Council held a remote special meeting on March 25, 2021. The only substantive item was a legislative session update from Representative Jesse Young on current legislation and budget priorities. No decisions, votes, or ordinances were recorded; the meeting adjourned at 3:58 p.m. Councilmembers Rodenberg and Franich were absent.
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council will hold a special meeting to receive a legislative session update. Senator Emily Randall and Representative Michelle Caldier are scheduled to provide this update.
- Legislative session update with Senator Emily Randall
- Legislative session update with Representative Michelle Caldier
The City Council held a remote special meeting to receive legislative and budget updates from Senator Emily Randall and Representative Michelle Caldier. No substantive decisions, approvals, or votes were recorded.
- Received legislative session update from Senator Emily Randall and Representative Michelle Caldier
City Council Committees
The Board & Commission Candidate Review Committee is holding a special meeting to conduct applicant interviews. The committee will interview Ben Lieurance for a position on the Parks Commission.
- Applicant interview: Ben Lieurance for Parks Commission
The Board and Commission Candidate Review Committee met on March 22, 2021 and interviewed Ben Lieurence. The committee unanimously recommended him for appointment to the Parks Commission. The meeting adjourned at 3:10 p.m. The recommendation is a committee action; the minutes do not record a final appointment by the City Council.
- Unanimously recommended Ben Lieurence for appointment to the Parks Commission
City Council Committees
The Intergovernmental Affairs Committee is holding a special meeting to discuss federal funding opportunities and receive a state legislative update. No specific votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.
- Discussion of federal funding opportunities
- State legislative update
The Intergovernmental Affairs Committee unanimously approved its January 25, 2021 minutes. The rest of the meeting was informational: lobbyist Dale Learn described the process for applying for direct federal funding, and lobbyist Josh Weiss reported on increased state revenue compared to 2020, the state budget process, and the status of key legislation. No other decisions were recorded, and the meeting adjourned at 4:43 p.m.
- Approved January 25, 2021 committee minutes (unanimous)
City Council
The City Council will consider a first reading of an ordinance to amend the 2021 budget and a public hearing regarding the city's assumption of the Transportation Benefit District. Other items include a professional services contract for employee engagement and an ordinance regarding Ancich Waterfront overwater structures.
- First reading of ordinance amending the 2021 Budget
- Public hearing and first reading of ordinance for City Assumption of the Transportation Benefit District
- Employee Engagement Professional Services Contract discussion
- First reading of ordinance regarding Ancich Waterfront Overwater Structures
- Approval of vouchers totaling $875,097.72
The Gig Harbor City Council approved a motion directing the City Administrator to form a committee to decide how to proceed with a consultant training program, with three Councilmembers chosen by the City Administrator, reporting back by May 24. The vote was 4-3 after an earlier amendment to name specific Councilmembers passed on a tie broken by the Mayor, then the main motion as amended failed 4-3. Three first readings of ordinances — Transportation Benefit District assumption, 2021 budget amendment, and Ancich Waterfront overwater structures — were presented and will return for second reading and adoption. The consent agenda, including vouchers totaling $875,097.72, was approved unanimously.
- Approved consent agenda unanimously, including vouchers #94927–#95031 and ACH payments of $875,097.72
- Amendment to name Councilmembers Himes, Franich and Abersold to the committee passed on a tie broken by the Mayor (Abersold aye; Denson no; Franich aye; Himes aye; Markley abstain; Rodenberg no; Woock no)
- Main motion as amended failed 4-3 (Abersold aye; Denson no; Franich aye; Himes aye; Markley no; Rodenberg no; Woock no)
- Motion to call the question failed 4-3 (Abersold aye; Denson no; Franich aye; Himes aye; Markley no; Rodenberg no; Woock no)
- Amendment to eliminate all Councilmembers from the committee failed 4-3 (Abersold aye; Denson no; Franich aye; Himes aye; Markley no; Rodenberg no; Woock no)
- Main motion directing City Administrator to form committee with three Councilmembers chosen by the City Administrator passed 4-3 (Abersold no; Denson aye; Franich no; Himes no; Markley aye; Rodenberg aye; Woock aye)
- First reading of ordinance for City assumption of Transportation Benefit District; returns for second reading and adoption
- First reading of ordinance amending 2021 budget for updated salary ranges; returns for second reading and adoption
Planning Commission
The Commission will discuss the Shoreline Management Plan update and a proposed amendment regarding public art on public property. Staff will also provide an overview of the periodic review process and remaining milestones for the Shoreline Master Program.
- Shoreline Management Plan Update discussion
- Shoreline Master Program Amendment for Public Art presentation
- Review of critical area regulations (wetlands, streams, and fish & wildlife habitat)
- Discussion on alignment with Flood Hazard Construction Standards Ordinance
The Planning Commission approved the minutes from the March 4, 2021, meeting. The session included presentations and discussions regarding the Shoreline Management Plan update and a Public Art amendment to the Shoreline Master Program.
- Approved March 4, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
City Council Committees
The Board & Commission Candidate Review Committee will conduct interviews for several municipal roles. The meeting includes candidate reviews for the Parks Commission and the LTAC Collector position.
- Interview: Anastasia Wright (Parks Commission)
- Interview: Ben Lieurance (Parks Commission)
- Interview: Mary Barber (Parks Commission)
- Interview: James Karrer (LTAC Collector)
- Interview: John Moist (LTAC Collector)
The Board and Commission Candidate Review Committee approved its February 16 minutes and its standard interview questions. It interviewed applicants and unanimously recommended Anastasia Wright and Mary Barber for the Parks Commission, and recommended John Moist for the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee by unanimous vote. James Karrer was recommended for the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee by a 2-1 vote, with Councilmember Woock opposed. Ben Lieurence's Parks Commission interview was rescheduled because he was not available.
- Approved February 16, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved standard interview questions as previously amended (unanimous)
- Recommended Anastasia Wright for Parks Commission appointment (unanimous)
- Recommended Mary Barber for Parks Commission appointment (unanimous)
- Recommended John Moist for Lodging Tax Advisory Committee appointment (unanimous)
- Recommended James Karrer for Lodging Tax Advisory Committee appointment (2-1, Woock opposed)
- Parks Commission interview for Ben Lieurence rescheduled; he was not available
Civil Service Commission
The Civil Service Commission will discuss an amendment to civil service rules regarding minimum passing scores for entry and lateral candidates. The meeting will also include an update on the current police recruitment and hiring process.
- Proposed amendment to minimum passing score for entry and lateral candidates
- Update on current recruitment and hiring process
The Gig Harbor Civil Service Commission approved the minutes from previous meetings and adopted an amendment to Civil Service Rules regarding minimum passing scores for entry and lateral candidates. The Commission also received a recruitment and hiring status update from Police Chief Kelly Busey.
- Approved September 11, 2020 meeting minutes
- Approved February 22, 2021 meeting minutes
- Approved amendment to Civil Service Rules for minimum passing scores (Richards/Brown)
City Council
The City Council is reviewing key terms for a 35-year lease agreement with the YMCA for the Sports Complex Phase I-A. The discussion includes the YMCA's obligation to fund $3.5 million in construction and the City's planned utility and infrastructure contributions.
- YMCA lease agreement for Sports Complex Phase I-A with a 35-year initial term
- YMCA obligation to fund at least $3.5 million for Phase 1A construction
- City contribution of approximately $100,000 for sewer line connection
- City contribution of approximately $110,000 for water main and fire hydrants
- Bogue Building Lease Agreement for the Chamber of Commerce
The City Council discussed a draft lease for the Sports Complex Phase I-A and a revised lease for the Bogue Building Visitor Center. Council expressed support for maintaining two downtown visitor centers and increasing the Chamber of Commerce rental rate.
- Supported increasing Bogue Building rental rate to 50% of estimated $2,400 monthly market rate
- Affirmed desire to maintain two downtown visitor centers
- Reviewed amended draft lease for Sports Complex Phase I-A for future approval
Arts Commission
The Gig Harbor Arts Commission will review applications for the Creative Endeavor Grant Program. The commission will also discuss the Arts & Culture Element of the Comprehensive Plan Update.
- Creative Endeavor Grant Program application review
- Arts & Culture Element of the Comprehensive Plan Update discussion
The Gig Harbor Arts Commission reviewed twelve Creative Endeavor Grant applications and voted unanimously to forward ten recommendations totaling $25,000 to the City Council for approval at its March 22, 2021 meeting. Two applications were determined not to meet the grant criteria and did not move forward. The Commission also agreed to revisit the grading criteria before the next grant round. The meeting adjourned at 12:02 p.m.
- Recommended 10 Creative Endeavor Grants totaling $25,000 to Council (unanimous)
- Two of twelve grant applications did not meet criteria and did not move forward
- Agreed to revisit grant grading criteria before next round
- Adjourned at 12:02 p.m. (unanimous)
City Council Committees
The Public Works Committee is reviewing art installation improvements at Harborview Drive and Stinson Avenue, impact fee reports for parks, schools, and transportation, and BUILD grant funding for capital projects. The committee also reviewed previous decisions regarding a WANRack franchise agreement and pavement maintenance schedules.
- Art Installation – Harborview Drive/Stinson Avenue Intersection Improvements
- Impact Fee Reports (Parks, School, and Transportation)
- BUILD Grant Funding – Capital Improvement Projects
- WANRack Franchise Agreement recommendation
- Harborview Drive at Ancanc Park pavement repair addition
The Public Works Committee approved its February 9, 2021 minutes and reviewed draft Impact Fee Reports for Transportation, School, and Parks, including 2020 fund balances and fee collections. The committee directed staff to schedule a May Study Session on maintenance costs for Transportation and Parks infrastructure, with the Parks Commission invited, and asked that these numbers come to the committee each first quarter. Members also discussed the Harborview Drive/Stinson Avenue art installation and reviewed the CIP, including moving three projects to the First Tier. No formal approvals of the impact fee reports or art installation were recorded.
- Approved February 9, 2021 Public Works Committee minutes (unanimous)
- Directed staff to schedule a May Study Session on Transportation and Parks infrastructure maintenance costs, including the Parks Commission
- Requested impact fee numbers be brought to the Public Works Committee each first quarter
- Discussed moving Annual Pavement Maintenance, Pedestrian Crosswalks, and Murphy's Landing Marina Dredge Project to the First Tier (no vote recorded)
- Adjourned at 4:07 p.m. (unanimous)
City Council
The City Council is reviewing several items including a WANRack franchise agreement, the assumption of the Transportation Benefit District, and infrastructure improvements for Stinson Avenue. The meeting also includes discussions on comprehensive plan amendments and a potential conservation grant for land acquisition.
- Second reading of Ordinance 1456 regarding WANRack Franchise Agreement
- Resolution 1201 regarding City Assumption of the Transportation Benefit District
- Stinson Ave Overlay and Intersection Improvements construction contract award
- Approval of February payroll totaling $496,424.13
- Approval of March 8 vouchers totaling $1,441,328.25
The Gig Harbor City Council approved a Public Works contract with Miles Resources, LLC for the Stinson Avenue Overlay and Intersection Improvements Project, not to exceed $1,441,097.20, along with two related support contracts and up to $150,000 in additional project expenditures; Councilmember Franich voted no. The Council also unanimously approved Ordinance 1456, the WANRack Franchise Agreement, and Resolution 1201 to assume the Transportation Benefit District, which sets a public hearing and first reading of the ordinance for April 12. The consent agenda was adopted as amended, including a FEMA Programmatic Review and Shoreline Master Program Update contract with Grette Associates LLC, Resolution 1202 on information services surplus equipment, and payroll and voucher approvals. The meeting was held remotely and included a Harbor History Museum year-end presentation and a public comment on the Honoring Symbol Project.
- Approved Ordinance 1456 WANRack Franchise Agreement (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 1201 assuming the Transportation Benefit District; sets public hearing and first ordinance reading for April 12 (unanimous)
- Authorized Mayor to execute Public Works contract with Miles Resources, LLC up to $1,441,097.20 for Stinson Avenue Overlay and Intersection Improvements (6 yes, Franich no)
- Authorized Contract Amendment No. 9 with Exeltech Consulting, Inc. up to $99,765.56 for construction support services (6 yes, Franich no)
- Authorized Professional Services contract with Construction Testing Laboratories, Inc. up to $32,438.00 for materials testing (6 yes, Franich no)
- Authorized City Engineer to approve additional project expenditures up to $150,000.00 (6 yes, Franich no)
- Adopted Consent Agenda as amended, including FEMA/Shoreline Master Program contract with Grette Associates LLC and Resolution 1202 surplus equipment (unanimous)
- Approved February payroll totaling $496,424.13 and March 8 vouchers totaling $1,441,328.25 (unanimous)
City Council
The City Council is reviewing a study session agenda that includes new regulations for the use of public docks at Ancich Waterfront Park. The proposed ordinance establishes rules for commercial fishing operators and the general public regarding mooring, vehicle access, and prohibited activities. The session also includes discussions on employee appreciation and federal funding for capital projects.
- Proposed Ordinance 14xx establishing Chapter 8.27 for Ancich Waterfront Park public docks
- Proclamation of March 5, 2021, as Employee Appreciation Day
- New $100 penalty for infractions regarding dock use regulations
- Requirement for commercial fishing vessels to carry $300,000 minimum liability insurance
- Discussion regarding 2021 Federal Funding of Capital Projects
The Gig Harbor City Council voted 5-2 to authorize the Mayor to pursue federal grants for five listed capital projects, with an amendment specifying the City must not incur increased net expense due to grant requirements. Franich and Markley opposed. The meeting also included a proclamation declaring March 5 Employee Appreciation Day, a draft ordinance on Ancich dock rules that will get a first reading March 22, and an update on the Commercial Fishing Homeport design with a future public meeting planned.
- Approved motion (5-2) authorizing the Mayor to pursue federal grants for 5 listed capital projects, amended to require no increased net expense to the City from grant requirements; Franich and Markley opposed
- Proclamation read declaring March 5 Employee Appreciation Day
- Draft ordinance on Ancich Netshed, Ancich Pier and Jerkovich Pier rules reviewed; RMSA to review and first reading set for March 22
- Commercial Fishing Homeport design options presented; public meeting to be held in the future
Planning Commission
The Gig Harbor Planning Commission is hosting a presentation by Anne Aurelia Fritzel from the Washington State Department of Commerce. The session covers the legal basis of planning, the Growth Management Act, and regional planning processes.
- Presentation: Short Course for Local Planning by Anne Aurelia Fritzel, AICP
- Discussion: Regional and local planning project engagement and education
The Gig Harbor Planning Commission met on March 4, 2021 and approved the minutes of its February 18, 2021 meeting as written. The only agenda item was a presentation on a short course for local planning by Anne Aurelia Fritzel of the Washington State Department of Commerce. No substantive land-use decisions, votes on projects, or ordinance actions are recorded in these minutes.
- Approved February 18, 2021 meeting minutes as written (all in favor)
- Heard presentation on Short Course for Local Planning from state Department of Commerce (no action recorded)
- Adjourned at 6:27 p.m. (all in favor)
- Next meeting set for March 18, 2021: Shoreline Management Update and continued discussion of reviewing projects outside the worklist
Parks Commission
The Parks Commission passed a recommendation to name the txwaalqəϯ (twa-al-cuth) Estuary and Austin Park to recognize the sxwəbabš Peoples. The meeting also included discussions on a new Adopt-A-Park program and upcoming park facility inventories.
- Recommendation to name txwaalqəϯ (twa-al-cuth) Estuary and Austin Park
- Discussion of a new Adopt-A-Park volunteer program
- Proposed Cushman Trail etiquette signage
- Update on Conservation Futures Property and Grant Application
- Review of private memorial donations for park benches and water stations
The Gig Harbor Parks Commission approved its February 3, 2021 minutes and received information on the City's intent to apply for a Conservation Futures Grant for an 11.5-acre parcel north of the Wastewater Treatment Plant, authorized by City Council Resolution 1200. Commissioners discussed a park inventory survey for the 2022 PROS Plan, a draft Adopt-A-Park program to be discussed in April, and Cushman Trail etiquette signage to be considered in the 2022 budget process. A resident raised concerns about Resolution 1200's implications for salmon stream protections and future property acquisition.
- Approved February 3, 2021 Parks Commission minutes (unanimous)
- Adjourned at 7:06 p.m. (unanimous)
- No vote on Conservation Futures Grant application; informational only
- No vote on Adopt-A-Park program; discussion tabled to April meeting
- No vote on Cushman Trail signage; to be considered in 2022 budget process
Arts Commission
The Gig Harbor Arts Commission is holding a special remote meeting to conduct applicant interviews for the Creative Endeavor Grant Program. The meeting includes a list of ten project applicants seeking funding.
- Creative Endeavor Grant Program applicant interviews
- Grant applications totaling $37,063.05
- Musicians of the Future grant application for $5,500.00
- Fest4All! grant application for $8,500.00
- Window Exhibits grant application for $4,280.00
The Gig Harbor Arts Commission held a special remote meeting due to COVID-19. Commissioners interviewed applicants for the Creative Endeavor Grant Program, asking questions and providing feedback on potential partnerships. No final grant decisions or votes were recorded in the minutes.
- Conducted applicant interviews for Creative Endeavor Grant Program
- Provided feedback to applicants on potential partnering
City Council Committees
The Planning & Building Committee is reviewing the 2021 Buildable Lands Report process and Pierce County's growth management requirements. The meeting includes a presentation on land capacity analysis and a discussion regarding growth target allocations.
- Presentation on 2021 Buildable Lands Report process and methodology
- Discussion on Growth Target Allocation
- Review of Pierce County Buildable Lands inventory and capacity analysis
- Discussion of Vision 2050 Regional Growth Strategy population and employment targets
The Planning & Building Committee approved the February 1, 2021 minutes. A presentation on the 2021 Buildable Lands Report was given by a Pierce County planner. The committee discussed growth target allocation, which will return to the agenda in the next 3-4 months.
- Approved February 1, 2021 minutes (all in favor)
- Discussed growth target allocation (no vote recorded)
- Tabled further growth target allocation discussion for next 3-4 months
Design Review Board
The Design Review Board is considering an alternative design for a 10,000 square foot food and clothing distribution warehouse for the Gig Harbor Peninsula FISH Food Bank. The discussion focuses on site grading plans and landscaping requirements for the primary walkway. The applicant is seeking approval for design alternatives that deviate from specific municipal code standards.
- Proposed 10,000 square foot warehouse and office building at XXX Burnham Dr.
- Alternative design request for site grading involving 2,000 cubic yards of cut and 3,000 cubic yards of fill.
- Alternative landscaping proposal for primary walkways using four 5’ x 5’ raised planters.
- Review of compliance with GHMC 17.99.240 regarding natural topography maintenance.
The Design Review Board reviewed the Gig Harbor Peninsula FISH Food Bank project (PL-DR-20-0071), a roughly 10,000 square foot food and clothing distribution warehouse and office building on Burnham Dr. The board approved a motion that the natural topography maintenance and Primary Walkway Standards proposals meet or exceed city code requirements, with all members in favor. Members also agreed the two middle raised planters could be relocated at the applicant's discretion and that two trees in front of the building could be moved elsewhere on the site. No minutes were approved, and the March 11, 2021 meeting was cancelled.
- Approved motion that natural topography maintenance and Primary Walkway Standards meet or exceed GHMC requirements (all in favor)
- Agreed two raised planters in the middle are at applicant's discretion to relocate
- No board members opposed relocating two front trees to another spot on the site
- Supported landscape plan as proposed, including east parcel line planting
- No minutes approved (none submitted)
- March 11, 2021 meeting cancelled
City Council
The City Council will consider three ordinances regarding personal mobility devices and a resolution to rename Austin Estuary Park. Other items include a conservation grant application and a public hearing for the Comprehensive Plan Docket.
- Second reading of three ordinances regarding mobility devices (Ordinances 1453, 1454, and 1455)
- Resolution 1199 to rename Austin Estuary Park and designate the txʷaalqəł Estuary Area
- Resolution 1200 regarding a Conservation Futures Grant Application to Pierce County
- Public Hearing for the Comprehensive Plan Docket
- First reading of the WANRack Franchise Agreement ordinance
The Council approved renaming Austin Estuary Park to Austin Park and designating the Twalwacut Estuary Area to honor the sxwababc Band of the Puyallup Tribe. Several comprehensive plan updates were initiated, and new ordinances regarding mobility devices were adopted.
- Approved Resolution 1199 to rename Austin Estuary Park and designate Twalwacut Estuary Area (6-1)
- Adopted Ordinances 1453, 1454, and 1455 regarding mobility devices (7-0)
- Approved Resolution 1200 to apply for a Pierce County Conservation Futures Grant (7-0)
- Approved adding Culture and Arts Element to comp plan with $15,000 consultant budget (4-3)
- Initiated Land Use Element Update (7-0)
- Initiated Shoreline Master Program Periodic Update (6-1)
- Initiated Shoreline Master Program Public Arts Exemption (6-1)
- Initiated Housing Element Update (7-0)
Civil Service Commission
The Gig Harbor Civil Service Commission is holding a special meeting to certify February 2021 rank results for the lateral entry list. The Commission will also discuss a proposed amendment to civil service rules regarding minimum passing scores for entry and lateral candidates.
- Certification of February 2021 Rank Results of Lateral Entry List
- Proposed amendment to minimum passing scores for entry and lateral candidates
The Civil Service Commission voted to certify the February 2021 rank results of the lateral entry list, with Chief Busey and HR staff answering questions about applicant numbers and remaining openings. The commission deferred approval of prior minutes until its next meeting on March 12, 2021. Chief Busey presented a draft amendment setting a minimum 70% oral board passing score for the eligible list, but the commission only agreed to review the suggested edits and discuss a possible rule amendment at the next meeting — no change was adopted. The meeting adjourned at 10:21am.
- Certified February 2021 rank results of the lateral entry list (Richards/Brown)
- Deferred approval of minutes to the March 12, 2021 meeting
- No action taken on proposed 70% minimum oral board passing score; forwarded for review and discussion at next meeting
- Adjourned at 10:21am (Richards/Brown)
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission will review the 2021 Work Program and receive a staff presentation on the Pierce County Comprehensive Plan Amendment Update. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding regional and local planning project engagement and education.
- 2021 Work Program staff presentation and discussion
- Pierce County Comprehensive Plan Amendment Update presentation
- Regional and local planning project engagement/education discussion
The Gig Harbor Planning Commission approved the January 21, 2021 minutes as written and received a staff presentation on the 2021 Work Program, covering ongoing workload and long-range planning projects. Staff also presented an update on the Pierce County Comprehensive Plan Amendment. The commission discussed regional and local planning engagement, and noted a state Department of Commerce Planning Short Course on UGA regional processes scheduled for the next meeting. No substantive land-use decisions, approvals, or denials were recorded; the meeting was primarily informational and procedural.
- Approved January 21, 2021 meeting minutes as written (all in favor)
- Received staff presentation on 2021 Work Program (no vote recorded)
- Received staff update on Pierce County Comprehensive Plan Amendment (no vote recorded)
- Discussed regional and local planning engagement; no action taken
- Adjourned at 6:20 P.M. (all in favor)
City Council Committees
The Board & Commission Candidate Review Committee will conduct interviews for several positions. The meeting includes reviewing suggested interview questions and interviewing applicants for the Parks Commission and LTAC Collector roles.
- Parks Commission applicant interviews: Anastasia Wright, Ben Lieurance, and Mary Barber
- LTAC Collector applicant interviews: James Karrer and John Moist
The Board and Commission Candidate Review Committee met on February 16, 2021 and unanimously approved minutes from a prior meeting (recorded as October January 21, 2021). The committee unanimously elected Spencer Abersold as Chair. Members reviewed and revised the standard interview questions used for board applicants, adding uniform questions and tailoring them to each board's desired qualifications. The meeting adjourned at 3:34 p.m.
- Approved prior meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Elected Spencer Abersold as Committee Chair (unanimous)
- Revised standard board interview questions to add uniform questions and board-specific items
Design Review Board
The Board will review a request for the Skansie Mini Storage project to remove all seven significant trees on-site in exchange for planting five new evergreens. Additionally, the Board will hold a pre-application meeting regarding a proposed Brown Bear Car Wash at 5115 Olympic Drive.
- Skansie Mini Storage: request to remove 100% of significant trees at 5116 89th Ave NW
- Skansie Mini Storage: proposed 78,375 gross square foot storage complex with 509 units
- Brown Bear Car Wash: proposed 3,328-square-foot tunnel wash at 5115 Olympic Drive
- Brown Bear Car Wash: demolition of existing gasoline service station
City Council
The City Council will hold a study session to discuss funding options for the Community Paddler’s Dock at Ancich Park. Recent estimates place construction costs at approximately $732,458, which exceeds the $400,000 currently allocated in the 2021 Budget.
- Discussion of funding for Community Paddler’s Dock construction
- Review of $732,458.53 total estimated cost for the dock project
- Discussion regarding property west of the Treatment Plant
- Potential funding sources: Park Impact Fees, LTAC, General Fund, or lease amendments
The Council approved a funding plan for the Community Paddler’s Dock and authorized the Mayor to seek a grant for land adjacent to the Wastewater Treatment Plant.
- Approved $730,000 for Community Paddler’s Dock using Park Impact Fees, Lodging Tax, General Fund, and HBZ (4-1-1)
- Denied amendment to increase Gig Harbor Canoe and Kayak Race Team contribution to $300,000 (2-4)
- Approved directing the Mayor to prepare a resolution to pursue a Pierce County Conservation Futures Grant (unanimous)
Lodging Tax Advisory Committee
The committee will review previous meeting minutes and consider new applicants for a collector position. Members will also discuss the production of the 2021 Visitors Guide and the availability of a $50,000 LTAC grant.
- Review of new applicants for remaining collector position
- Production of 2021 Visitors Guide
- LTAC Grant availability for remaining $50,000
- Permitting applications for Race for a Soldier and Waterfront Farmers’ Market
- Scheduling for six weeks of movies in the park
The committee approved the minutes from November 2020 and January 2021. Members discussed potential applicants for a collector position and planned the 2021 Visitors Guide and grant timelines.
- Approved November 2020 minutes
- Approved January 2021 minutes
Arts Commission
The Commission is discussing its 2021 work plan, which includes a $45,250 budget for various arts programs and a $130,000 capital fund for public art projects. The meeting also addresses a proposal to recognize the ancestral homelands of the sxʷəbabč peoples through park renaming and interpretive signage.
- $45,250 total goals for the 2021 Parks Operations Fund
- $130,000 total for the 2021 Arts Capital Fund
- Proposal to rename Austin Estuary Park to Austin Park
- Proposal to name the Donkey Creek estuary 'twalwacut Estuary'
- $25,000 for the Creative Endeavor Grant Program
The Gig Harbor Arts Commission approved releasing a call for artists for the Stinson/Harborview Sidewalk Project with a $25,000 budget, split between $15,000 from the road project and $10,000 from the Arts Commission Capital Project Budget. It also unanimously approved sending a letter of support to the City Council recognizing the ancestral homelands of the sxʷəbabč Peoples and renaming area sites, and approved the January 13, 2021 minutes as amended. The commission discussed its 2021 goals, including the Comprehensive Plan arts element scheduled for City Council on February 22, and heard updates on the Creative Endeavor Grant Program and city art catalogue.
- Approved minutes of January 13, 2021 as amended (unanimous)
- Approved writing a letter of support to City Council on recognizing ancestral homelands and renaming sites (Kelly/Stevenson, unanimous)
- Approved releasing call for artists for Stinson/Harborview Sidewalk Project with $25,000 budget: $15,000 from road project, $10,000 from Arts Commission Capital Project Budget (Avni/Bozich, unanimous)
- Adjourned at 12:02 p.m. (Stevenson/Kelly, unanimous)
City Council Committees
The Public Works Committee is reviewing a five-year franchise agreement for WANRack, LLC to install telecommunications facilities. The committee will also discuss proposed additional scope for annual pavement maintenance and commercial development access regulations.
- WANRack, LLC franchise agreement for telecommunications network facilities
- Annual Pavement Maintenance Proposed Additional Scope
- Regulating Commercial Development Access discussion
- CIP Review
The Gig Harbor Public Works Committee voted unanimously to recommend moving the WANRack, LLC franchise agreement to full Council. The agreement would let WANRack place telecommunications facilities in the city right-of-way to support a fiber optic connection between Peninsula School District schools. The committee also voted 2-1 to add the Harborview Drive bump repair at Ancich Park to the 2021 Annual Pavement Maintenance bid package. Other proposed pavement additions and a discussion on commercial driveway width were not decided.
- Recommended WANRack franchise agreement to full Council (unanimous)
- Approved January 12, 2021 Public Works Committee minutes (unanimous)
- Added Harborview Drive bump repair at Ancich Park to 2021 Annual Pavement Maintenance bid package (2-1)
- Adjourned at 4:23 p.m. (unanimous)
City Council
The City Council will discuss mobility device ordinances, Ancich Park dock rules, and the selection of an official newspaper. The meeting also includes presentations on housing affordability and the approval of significant payroll and voucher payments.
- First reading of ordinances amending mobility device regulations
- First reading of ordinance adopting Ancich Park dock rules
- Resolution 1198 regarding the Official Newspaper
- Approval of January payroll totaling $460,463.42
- Approval of FY2020 and FY2021 vouchers totaling $999,097.51
The Gig Harbor City Council unanimously adopted Resolution 1198 designating the News Tribune as the city's official newspaper, with council recommending the decision be revisited in two years. A first reading of an ordinance setting Ancich Park dock rules was postponed to a study session that would include commercial fishermen. The council also reviewed a first reading of three ordinances regulating personal mobility devices such as motorized foot scooters, with the police chief to add the word "sidewalk" before a second reading. The consent agenda, including January payroll of $460,463.42 and vouchers of $999,097.51, was approved as amended.
- Adopted Consent Agenda as amended, unanimously (Woock/Himes)
- Adopted Resolution 1198 designating the News Tribune as official newspaper, unanimously (Woock/Markley)
- Postponed first reading of Ancich Park dock rules ordinance to a study session including fishermen, unanimously (Franich/Woock)
- Reviewed first reading of three ordinances on mobility devices; no vote recorded, chief to amend before second reading
- Approved January payroll: Checks #8244-#8249 and direct deposits totaling $460,463.42
- Approved vouchers for FY2020 and FY2021: Checks #94623-#94721 and ACH payments totaling $999,097.51
- Moved nonprofit year-end reports off the consent agenda to be rescheduled for in-person presentation
- Adjourned at 8:15 p.m., unanimously (Franich/Abersold)
Parks Commission
The Gig Harbor Parks Commission will hold a public hearing and take action on a proposal to restore the native place name Twalwacut at the Austin Estuary site, including renaming Austin Estuary Park to Austin Park. The commission will also discuss pandemic-aware Parks Appreciation Day plans and an inventory of parks facilities for the 2022 PROS Plan.
- Public hearing on restoring Twalwacut name and renaming Austin Estuary Park to Austin Park
- Discussion of Parks Appreciation Day with COVID-safe measures
- Inventory of parks facilities for 2022 PROS Plan update
- Proposed donations: bench at Skansie Brothers Park, water bottle filling station at Crescent Creek Park, benches at Wilkinson Farm Park and Austin Estuary Park
- Lease updates: Gig Harbor Canoe and Kayak Race Team at Ancich Park, Gig Harbor Commercial Fishermen's Club draft lease
The Gig Harbor Parks Commission approved minutes from January 6, 2021, and voted unanimously to recommend to City Council naming the 7+ acre estuary at Donkey Creek 'txwaalqəϯ (twa-al-cuth) Estuary' and renaming 'Austin Estuary Park' to 'Austin Park.' An earlier amendment that would have added a request for an honorary 'Ancestral Homelands of the sxwəbabš' designation failed on a roll call vote (2 aye, 5 no). The commission also discussed moving Parks Appreciation Day to the fall and an inventory of parks facilities for the 2022 PROS Plan, with no decisions recorded on those items.
- Approved January 6, 2021 Parks Commission minutes (unanimous)
- Amended motion to add honorary 'Ancestral Homelands of the sxwəbabš' designation failed (2-5 roll call)
- Approved recommending to City Council naming the 7+ acre estuary 'txwaalqəϯ (twa-al-cuth) Estuary' (unanimous)
- Approved recommending renaming 'Austin Estuary Park' to 'Austin Park' (unanimous)
- Approved asking City Historic Certified Local Government representatives to recommend an honorary 'Ancestral Homelands of the sxwəbabš' area (unanimous)
- Adjourned at 8:41 p.m. (unanimous)
City Council Committees
The Gig Harbor Planning & Building Committee is meeting to discuss regional planning frameworks, population targets, and legislative coordination on Growth Management Act bills. They will also review updates to the Pierce County Comprehensive Plan and the 2021 Long Range Work Program. The agenda includes several proposed amendments to the Pierce County Comprehensive Plan and Gig Harbor Peninsula Community Plan, with public hearings scheduled in the coming weeks.
- Discussion of Regional Planning Framework (PSRC/PCRC) and Population Target Setting
- Review of 2021 Long Range Work Program
- Pierce County Comprehensive Plan amendments: App. No. 939790 (redesignate 5 parcels to Park and Recreation), App. No. 940337 (redesignate 2 parcels to Mixed Use District), App. No. 940172 (density calculation change), App. No. 940163 (Purdy area revitalization and tree preservation)
- City comments on App. No. 940163 regarding UGA descriptions and Purdy redevelopment
- Next meeting scheduled for March 1, 2021
The Planning & Building Committee approved its January 4, 2021 minutes and heard presentations on state Growth Management Act bills, regional planning framework updates, and population targets. Members reviewed four Pierce County Comprehensive Plan amendment applications, including rezoning parcels for a community recreation center and dog park, and a Purdy-area rezoning. No decisions were recorded on the agenda items; the meeting adjourned at 5:01 PM.
- Approved January 4, 2021 minutes as written (all in favor)
- Adjourned meeting at 5:01 PM (Markley/Himes, all in favor)
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council is holding a special virtual meeting with a single agenda item: an executive session to discuss the infrastructure and security of the agency's computer and telecommunications network, as permitted under state law. No other business is scheduled, and the meeting is expected to adjourn after the session.
- Executive session on computer and telecommunications network security per RCW 42.10.110 (a)(ii)
The Gig Harbor City Council met remotely on January 29, 2021 and entered executive session for 30 minutes to discuss infrastructure and security of the agency's computer and telecommunications network under RCW 42.10.110(a)(ii). The minutes state no action would be taken after the session, and none was. The council returned to open session at 3:40 p.m. and adjourned at 3:40 p.m. with no further discussion. Councilmember Franich was absent.
- Entered executive session (closed to the public) to discuss city computer and telecommunications network infrastructure and security, per RCW 42.10.110(a)(ii)
- No action taken following the executive session, as stated in the minutes
- Meeting adjourned at 3:40 p.m. with no further discussion
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council is holding a retreat to discuss the city's response to COVID-19, review the 2021 Capital Improvement Program project schedules and staffing needs, and hear the mayor's initiatives including restoring a Native American park name, annexation of city properties, and downtown parking. They will also discuss the city's strategic plan, communication plan, and a financial aid policy for low-income residents' utility bills.
- 2021 CIP project schedules: Stinson Avenue pavement overlay, 38th Avenue Improvement Phase 1A, Stinson/Harborview intersection improvements, Burnham 1/2 Street improvements, Emergency Water Intertie-Canterwood Blvd, Well #3 reconstruction, Lift Station 6 replacement, and more.
- Staffing discussion: implementing additional engineering full-time equivalents.
- Mayor initiatives: restoring a Native American park name, annexation of city properties, Crescent Creek Park/Masonic Temple timetable, enforcement of development regulations, downtown parking.
- Financial aid policy for fixed, low-income residents for utility bills (Councilmember Jim Franich).
- 2021 event planning: Maritime Gig and other city events.
The Gig Harbor City Council held a remote retreat on January 27, 2021, with discussion items rather than formal votes. Council did not support a proposal to sell surplus City-owned property at this time, and expressed support for soliciting requests for proposals for a facilitator to develop a City strategic plan for 2022 and beyond. Council also agreed to hold a future study session on downtown parking issues, and a councilmember asked the City to look into raising the income threshold for low-income utility bill discounts, which staff said could be considered in an upcoming utility rate study. The minutes record no other substantive decisions.
- Did not support selling surplus City-owned property at this time
- Expressed support for soliciting RFPs for a strategic plan facilitator
- Agreed to hold a future study session on downtown parking
- Councilmember Franich requested review of raising the low-income utility discount threshold; possible inclusion in upcoming utility rate study
City Council Committees
The Gig Harbor Intergovernmental Affairs Committee held a special meeting to discuss updates to its 2021 legislative agenda. No formal decisions were listed; the body only reviewed items and adjourned. The next regular meeting is scheduled for March 22, 2021.
The Intergovernmental Affairs Committee met on January 25, 2021 and received two informational updates. Lobbyist Josh Weiss reported on the legislative session, including transportation funding, multi-family tax exemption credit changes, and law-enforcement bills that could affect police liability. Lobbyist Dale Learn reported on federal changes under a new President and Congress and on federal grant opportunities for the City to monitor. No decisions, votes, or formal actions are recorded in these minutes; the meeting adjourned at 4:42 p.m.
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council will hold a second reading and vote on an ordinance updating Title 15 Building and Construction, and will elect a Mayor Pro Tempore. The consent agenda includes a contract amendment for Burnham Drive roadway improvements, approval of vouchers totaling $794,147.20, and several reports and proclamations. The meeting will be held remotely due to public health concerns.
- Second reading of ordinance updating Title 15 Building and Construction
- Election of Mayor Pro Tempore
- Contract Amendment #1 with David Evans and Associates for Burnham Drive Half-Width Roadway Improvements Ph. 1
- Approval of vouchers for January 25, 2021: Checks #94498-#94622 and ACH payments totaling $794,147.20
- Presentation: Wastewater Treatment Plant Outstanding Performance Award and Pierce Transit Bus and Trolley Update
The City Council approved the consent agenda, including a contract amendment for Burnham Drive improvements and $794,147.20 in vouchers. Members also adopted Ordinance 1451 to update building and construction codes and elected Councilmember Spencer Abersold as Mayor Pro Tempore for 2021.
- Approved consent agenda including $794,147.20 in vouchers (7-0)
- Approved Burnham Drive Ph. 1 contract amendment (7-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 1451 updating building and construction codes (7-0)
- Elected Spencer Abersold as 2021 Mayor Pro Tempore (7-0)
- Adjourned meeting at 7:24 p.m. (7-0)
Planning Commission
The Gig Harbor Planning Commission is reviewing proposed amendments to the Pierce County Comprehensive Plan for the Gig Harbor Peninsula, including updates to background data, maps, and policies. The amendments aim to reflect current conditions, support Purdy commercial revitalization, address the Fox Island Bridge, and add tree preservation policies. The Commission will provide feedback on the staff presentation.
- Proposed amendments to the Gig Harbor Peninsula Community Plan, including updates to population data and maps
- New policies to support revitalization of the Purdy commercial area (GH LU-5.1.4)
- New goal and action addressing the Fox Island Bridge (GH T-12)
- New policies for tree preservation and canopy (GH D-7.4, GH D-12.4, GH D-12.5)
- Correction of 'Reserve 5' to 'Rural 5' per Ordinance No. 2015-40
The Planning Commission approved the December 17, 2020 minutes as written and received a staff presentation on Pierce County Comprehensive Plan Amendments affecting the Gig Harbor area, with commission feedback. No decisions were recorded on the county amendments; the item was presentation and feedback only. The commission also noted that a new planning commissioner will be confirmed by Council on February 8, 2021, and set its next meeting for February 4, 2021.
- Approved December 17, 2020 meeting minutes as written (all in favor)
- Adjourned at 6:45 PM (all in favor)
- No vote recorded on Pierce County Comprehensive Plan Amendments; staff presentation and commission feedback only
Hearing Examiner Hearings
The Gig Harbor Hearing Examiner will hold a virtual public hearing on a conditional use permit request to establish a two-guestroom bed and breakfast in the lower level of an existing residence at 3311 Ross Avenue. Planning staff recommend approval with conditions, including a $5,071 transportation impact fee and a site inspection for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. No written comments have been received as of the staff report date.
- Conditional use permit PL-CUP-20-0004 for Ms. Bea's Bed and Breakfast, two guestrooms totaling ~650 sq ft
- Site zoned R-1 Single-Family Residential (Historic District)
- Transportation Impact Fee of $5,071.00 required prior to permit issuance
- Five off-street parking stalls required; applicant demonstrated existing capacity
- Permit expires 3 years from approval unless extended
Arts Commission
The Gig Harbor Arts Commission will hold a special meeting on January 20, 2021, to discuss updates on the Creative Endeavor Grant Program, plans to incorporate art into the Harborview/Stinson Roadway Improvement Project, the Love Locks Project, and the arts element of the city’s Comprehensive Plan. No formal decisions are listed; the session is primarily informational and workshop-focused.
- Creative Endeavor Grant Program update
- Incorporating art in Harborview / Stinson Roadway Improvement Project
- Love Locks Project discussion
- Arts Element of the Gig Harbor Comprehensive Plan review
The Gig Harbor Arts Commission approved its November 18 minutes as amended and its December 2, 2020 minutes as presented, both unanimously. It reviewed recommended amendments to last year's Creative Endeavor Grant Program form, with Commissioners Avni and Stevenson to make the changes and a final draft to be distributed for approval before release. The commission set a schedule for accepting and reviewing grant applications, from a February 4 pre-application Q&A through a March 22 recommendation to City Council. Three agenda items — incorporating art in the Harborview/Stinson roadway project, the Love Locks project, and the Arts Element of the Gig Harbor Comprehensive Plan — were not addressed for lack of time and moved to the next meeting.
- Approved November 18 minutes as amended (unanimous)
- Approved December 2, 2020 minutes as presented (unanimous)
- Set Creative Endeavor Grant schedule: Feb 4 Q&A, Mar 1 application deadline, Mar 3 and Mar 6 interviews, Mar 10 and Mar 12 review/awards, Mar 22 recommendation to City Council
- Directed Commissioners Avni and Stevenson to amend the grant form, with final draft distributed for approval before release
- Adjourned at 12:17 p.m. (unanimous)
City Council Committees
The Board & Commission Candidate Review Committee is interviewing applicants for open positions on the Planning Commission and the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC), including a recipient and a collector representative. After the interviews, the committee will review the applicants and make recommendations. The meeting is primarily procedural, focused on candidate selection.
- Interviews for Planning Commission: David Brereton, David Christian, Larry Bradbury
- Interviews for LTAC: Warren Zimmerman (recipient), Janis Denton (collector)
- Larry Bradbury also considered for Salary Commission
- Approval of minutes from October 12, 2020
The Board and Commission Candidate Review Committee met on January 19, 2021 and unanimously approved its October 12, 2020 minutes. It interviewed three candidates for a Planning Commission vacancy and unanimously recommended the Mayor appoint Larry Bradbury. Bradbury also interviewed for a Salary Commission vacancy and was unanimously recommended for that appointment as well. For the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee, the committee recommended Warren Zimmerman as a receiver, but his appointment will be delayed because LTAC must have equal numbers of receivers and collectors; a recommendation on collector candidate Janis Denton was delayed until a second collector candidate is available.
- Approved October 12, 2020 minutes (unanimous)
- Recommended Mayor appoint Larry Bradbury to Planning Commission (unanimous)
- Recommended Mayor appoint Larry Bradbury to Salary Commission (unanimous)
- Recommended Warren Zimmerman as LTAC receiver; appointment delayed pending a matching collector
- Delayed recommendation on Janis Denton as LTAC collector until a second collector candidate is available
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council will hold a study session to discuss a feasibility study for a commercial fishing homeport at Ancich Waterfront Park. The study, prepared by Davido Consulting Group, includes community outreach, concept alternatives, and economic analysis. Council will review the study, discuss, and consider next steps.
- Feasibility study for commercial fishing homeport at Ancich Waterfront Park
- Two dock alternatives: Full Buildout and Linear Facility
- Community interviews with 13 stakeholders including fishermen and neighbors
- Economic analysis of costs vs. revenues over 20 years
- Potential impacts on Millville neighborhood traffic and parking
The City Council held a study session to review the Commercial Fishing Homeport Feasibility Study for Ancich Waterfront Park. No formal votes were taken during this session. Staff will seek additional design input from the local fishermen's club to address moorage capacity needs.
- Reviewed Commercial Fishing Homeport Feasibility Study
- Directed staff to seek further design options from the fishermen's club
City Council Committees
The committee will discuss the status of the Stinson/Harborview intersection improvement project, including easements and roundabout design. Other discussion items include a crosswalk at the Albertson’s entrance on Borgen Boulevard and a lift at Ancich Waterfront Park.
- Stinson/Harborview Intersection Improvement Project status update
- Albertson’s entrance crosswalk at Borgen Boulevard discussion
- Ancich Waterfront Park lift discussion
- Roundabout design is approximately 85% complete
The committee approved the November 10, 2020 meeting minutes. Members discussed potential 2022 budget costs for a crosswalk at Albertson's and reviewed the status of the Stinson/Harborview Intersection Improvement Project.
- Approved November 10, 2020 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Recommended providing Council with costs for Albertson's crosswalk as a possible 2022 capital project
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council will hold a first reading of an ordinance updating Title 15 (Building and Construction), consider awarding a public works contract for Well No. 3, and discuss a resolution establishing a quarterly budget objective update policy. The meeting also includes a presentation on city forms of government and routine consent agenda items such as payroll and vouchers.
- First reading of ordinance updating Title 15 Building and Construction
- Well No. 3 Public Works Contract Award
- Resolution 1196 – Quarterly Budget Objective Update Policy
- Resolution 1195 – Astound Broadband Telecommunications Franchise Agreement Change of Control
- Purchase Authorization – Vactor Truck
Gig Harbor City Council voted 4-3 to reject a motion to bring back a resolution placing a change to the Council-Manager form of government on the April 27 special election ballot. The council approved a $948,896.65 contract with Tacoma Pump & Drilling Co. Inc. for Well No. 3A reconstruction, with up to $75,000 in additional change-order authority, on a 7-0 vote. Resolution 1196, a quarterly budget objective update policy, passed with six yes votes and one abstention. A first reading of an ordinance updating Title 15 building and construction codes was presented and will return for a second reading.
- Approved consent agenda including Resolution 1195 (Astound Broadband franchise change of control), a Vactor truck purchase authorization, December payroll of $729,649.49, and vouchers totaling $493,400.59 and $830,317.31 (unanimous)
- Awarded Well No. 3A reconstruction contract to Tacoma Pump & Drilling Co. Inc. for up to $948,896.65, plus up to $75,000 in change-order authority (7-0)
- Approved Resolution 1196, quarterly budget objective update policy (6 yes, 1 abstained)
- Failed to bring back a resolution placing a Council-Manager government change on the April 27 special election ballot (4-3)
- First reading of ordinance updating Title 15 building and construction codes; no public comment, returns for second reading
- Adjourned at 7:33 p.m. (unanimous)
Lodging Tax Advisory Committee
The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee will discuss administrative items including finalizing new member applications, setting the 2021 meeting calendar, and updating the budget for a $5,000 public art catalog. They will also review the 2021 visitors guide production, open the grant period for the remaining $50,000, and consider an idea for youth engagement and publicity.
- Final call for new member applications and council interviews
- Budget update: $5,000 funding for public art catalog
- 2021 visitors guide production to begin, content suggestions
- LTAC grant open date for remaining $50,000
- Emerging events: idea for youth engagement and publicity
The Gig Harbor Lodging Tax Advisory Committee approved $5,000 in funding for a Public Art Catalog and set the 2021 meeting schedule and grant application dates. The committee also discussed membership updates, the 2021 Visitors Guide, youth engagement ideas, and the Jerisich Park kiosk.
- Approved $5,000 funding for Public Art Catalog (with Sue Braaten opposed)
- Approved 2nd Thursday of each month for the 2021 meeting calendar
- Agreed on LTAC grant application open date from Feb 10 – March 15, 2021
City Council
The Gig Harbor City Council is holding a study session with a presentation from the Municipal Research & Service Center of Washington on city forms of government, including council-manager and mayor-council options. The council will also hold an executive session on a matter per RCW 42.30.110(1)(i), with no action expected after. No formal decisions are scheduled.
- MRSC presentation on forms of government
- Executive session per RCW 42.30.110(1)(i)
- Discussion of potential change from mayor-council to council-manager form
The Gig Harbor City Council met remotely on January 7, 2021 for a study session. The council heard a presentation from MRSC Executive Director Tracy Burrows and MRSC Consultant Andrew Neiditz on different forms of city government, and discussed the differences between Council-Mayor and Council-Manager forms. The council then went into executive session to discuss potential litigation under RCW 42.30.110(1)(i), extending it several times before returning to open session. No action was taken and the meeting adjourned at 6:04 p.m.
City Council Committees
The Intergovernmental Affairs Committee is holding a special meeting to discuss an update on its 2021 legislative agenda. The meeting includes approval of minutes from previous meetings and is otherwise a routine discussion item.
- Discussion of 2021 Legislative Agenda Update
- Approval of minutes from November 23, 2020 and January 6, 2021
The Intergovernmental Affairs Committee held a special meeting and presented the city's 2021 Legislative Agenda to Rep. Michelle Caldier. Members discussed potential funding for transportation and recreation projects, plus affordable housing, the Growth Management Act, and the Open Public Meetings Act. Lobbyists Josh Weiss and Annika Vaughn explained how legislation will be tracked during the upcoming session. No votes or formal decisions were recorded; the meeting adjourned at 12:50 p.m.
Parks Commission
The Gig Harbor Public Works Committee will discuss three non-action items: a crosswalk at Albertson's entrance on Borgen Boulevard, the lift at Ancich Waterfront Park, and the Stinson/Harborview intersection improvement project. The roundabout is at 85% design, with easements needed from three property owners and construction expected to start in May and finish this fall.
- Crosswalk at Albertson's entrance on Borgen Boulevard (discussion)
- Lift at Ancich Waterfront Park – discussion and next steps
- Stinson/Harborview roundabout at 85% design; easements from 3 property owners (4 parcels)
- Speedy Autoglass parcel requires ROW vacation and acquisition; possession and use agreement as alternative
- Construction anticipated to start in May and complete this fall
The Parks Commission approved its December 2, 2020 minutes and heard an update that the Ad Hoc Committee is proposing a different direction on renaming Austin Estuary Park to Twalwacut park, still honoring the Austin name. The committee asked to defer its presentation to the February meeting for consideration and public input. The commission also reviewed the 2021 work plan adopted by City Council and scheduled items for early 2021, and formed subcommittees for Cushman Trail signage, Parks Appreciation Day, Adopt-A-Park, and a parks facilities inventory. No new business was taken up.
- Approved December 2, 2020 Parks Commission minutes (unanimous)
- Deferred Austin Estuary Park renaming presentation to February Parks Commission meeting
- Scheduled 2021 work plan items: Parks Appreciation Day and parks facilities inventory in February; Adopt-A-Park and Cushman Trail etiquette signage in March; master plan list and Ancich human-powered storage in April
- Deferred Crescent Creek Park visioning until City Council gives direction on proposed Masonic Lodge building improvements
- Adjourned at 7:14 p.m. (unanimous)
City Council Committees
The Gig Harbor Planning & Building Committee will discuss updates to Title 15 Building and Construction, set its 2021 focus, and review plans for the 2021 Annexation Feasibility Study, Buildable Lands Study, and Growth Allocation Process. These are discussion items, not final decisions.
- Updates to Title 15 Building and Construction
- 2021 Annexation Feasibility Study Plan
- Buildable Lands Study and Report Plan
- Growth Allocation Process key steps and checkpoints
- Committee focus for 2021
The committee reviewed updates to Title 15 Building and Construction and discussed the 2021 work plan, including annexation feasibility and buildable lands studies. No legislative actions were taken beyond the approval of previous meeting minutes.
- Approved December 7, 2020 meeting minutes (all in favor)