Yakima public meetings in 2024

City Council Study Session

The Yakima City Council will hold a study session to discuss the 2025-2026 biennial budget and authorize a contract for affordable housing construction. The meeting will also include a proclamation and a discussion on the opioid epidemic.

• Proclamation for Alan Sillence Day
• Contract with Catholic Charities for Casa de la Mora affordable housing
• Discussion on the opioid epidemic
• Discussion of the 2025-2026 Priority Based Biennial Budget

The council adopted the 2025-2026 biennial budget (7-0) and approved a resolution authorizing a contract with Catholic Charities Housing Services to construct a 72-unit affordable housing project called Casa de la Mora using HOME-ARP funds (6-0; Councilmember Deccio recused). A proclamation declared December 23 as Alan Sillence Day. The council also heard a discussion on opioid epidemic services from community providers, but no action was taken.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 2024-049 adopting the 2025-2026 Priority Based Biennial Budget (7-0)
• Approved Resolution No. R-2024-228 authorizing contract with Catholic Charities Housing Services for Casa de la Mora affordable housing project (6-0; Deccio recused)
• Declared December 23, 2024 as Alan Sillence Day

City Council Regular Meeting

The Yakima City Council will hold a regular meeting with a consent agenda covering routine approvals, including ordinances for budget amendments and zoning changes near 2300 E. Birch Street. Public hearings are scheduled but no specific topics are listed in the agenda. Department items include discussions on creating an ad hoc budget advisory committee and maintaining the Downtown Yakima Business Improvement District, along with resolutions to dedicate opioid settlement money to the Community Diversion Court and authorize a related agreement with People for People.

• Resolution to dedicate opioid settlement funds to Community Diversion Court for five years (9D)
• Resolution authorizing agreement with People for People for diversion court services through 2029 (9E)
• Resolution creating an ad hoc budget advisory committee (9C)
• Ordinance adopting comprehensive plan amendment and rezone near 2300 E. Birch Street (consent item R)
• Resolutions authorizing agreements for 34th Avenue/Fruitvale/River Rd roundabouts project (consent items I, J)

The City Council approved a new classification and compensation plan for employees and amended the 2024 budget. The council also authorized several infrastructure contracts, updated zoning for a property near 2300 E. Birch Street, and created an ad hoc budget advisory committee.

• Approved employee classification and compensation plan effective Jan 13, 2025 (7-0)
• Amended 2024 Budget and made appropriations from unappropriated fund balances (7-0)
• Rezoned property near 2300 E. Birch Street from Suburban Residential to General Commercial (7-0)
• Approved contracts with HLA Engineering and TTC Construction for 34th Ave/Fruitvale/River Rd Roundabouts (7-0)
• Created an ad hoc budget advisory committee (7-0)
• Dedicated $419,591 in opioid settlement money to Community Diversion Court for five years (7-0)
• Authorized agreement with People for People for Community Diversion Court services through 2029 (7-0)
• Referred DYBID maintenance alternative options to the advisory group for a 45-day review (unanimous)

City Council Regular Meeting

The Yakima City Council will consider adopting its 2025 meeting schedule, creating funds for opioid settlement revenue, and amending water, wastewater, and stormwater fee schedules. The body will also vote on ordinances regarding garbage disposal and a 2024 budget amendment.

• Ordinance to create fund for Opioid Settlement Revenue
• Ordinance to create fund for Yakima Police Department LEOFF 1 Pension
• Ordinance adopting decisions on Comprehensive Plan Amendments and Rezones
• Resolution amending Master Fee Schedule for domestic water rates and fees
• Ordinance amending 2024 Budget for the City of Yakima

The Yakima City Council unanimously approved water and wastewater rate increases and a solid waste fee increase, and approved a stormwater rate increase on a 5-2 vote. The council also approved several rezonings as part of the consent agenda, established an opioid settlement fund, and adopted the 2025 meeting schedule.

• Approved water rate and fee increase via Resolution 2024-212 (7-0)
• Approved wastewater rate increase via Resolution R-2024-213 (7-0)
• Approved stormwater rate increase via Resolution R-2024-214 (5-2, Berg and Brown opposed)
• Approved solid waste fee increase via Ordinance 2024-043 (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including rezonings at Viola Ave, Nob Hill Blvd, and Ahtanum Rd, opioid settlement fund, and police pension trust fund (7-0)
• Proclaimed December 3, 2024 as Alan Sillence Day (unanimous)
• Tabled discussion of sewer services for Wiley City to a future meeting (unanimous)

City Council Special Meeting

The Yakima City Council will convene to discuss options for the 2025-2026 budget, amend utility tax rates for storm drainage, and update funding for the Aquatic Center at Martin Luther King Jr. Park.

• Discussion of 2025-2026 budget options
• Ordinance to amend utility tax for storm drainage
• Ordinance to amend Aquatic Center fund code
• Adhoc advisory budget committee discussion
• Public comment period scheduled

The Yakima City Council voted 5-2 to increase the stormwater utility tax from 15% to 20%, and directed staff to create a 12% policy reserve. A separate ordinance to dedicate all new stormwater tax revenue to the MLK Aquatic Center fund failed; instead, council directed staff to prepare a version funding all pool operations. Council also approved forming an ad hoc budget advisory committee and agreed on several cost-saving administrative measures.

• Directed staff to create a 12% policy reserve and prepare a resolution (unanimous)
• Approved ordinance increasing stormwater utility tax from 15% to 20% (5-2; Berg, Brown opposed)
• Failed to pass ordinance dedicating 5% stormwater tax increase to MLK Aquatic Center fund (5-2; Glenn, Herrera in favor)
• Directed staff to bring back an ordinance funding all pool operations (5-2; Glenn, Herrera opposed)
• Directed staff to create a resolution formalizing a budget advisory ad hoc committee (unanimous)
• Agreed by consensus to implement several administrative savings: move bond payoff, use CDBG for pool, change salary savings policy, reduce professional services, eliminate non-essential travel, reduce police/fire overtime

City Council Regular Meeting

The City Council will conduct public hearings on the 2025-2026 Preliminary Biennial Budget and several zoning and subdivision requests. The body will also consider ordinances to create funds for opioid settlement revenue and police pensions.

• Second public hearing on the 2025-2026 Preliminary Biennial Budget
• Public hearing for Comprehensive Plan Amendment and Rezone near 2300 E. Birch Street
• Public hearing for Rainier Court Phase 5 preliminary plat near 406 N. 92nd Avenue
• Lease agreements with Makito Aviation, LLC for a Fixed Base Operator and Fuel Farm
• Ordinances to create funds for Opioid Settlement Revenue and Yakima Police Department Pension

The council approved the preliminary plat for Rainier Court Phase 5, a 22-lot subdivision, and directed staff to prepare legislation for a comprehensive plan amendment and rezone near 2300 E. Birch Street. They also passed ordinances streamlining land-use appeals and amending ambulance services, and adopted resolutions authorizing aviation leases, a police grappler grant, and several consent items. All votes were 7-0.

• Approved consent agenda (7-0) including minutes, financial reports, contracts, and budget amendment
• Approved lease agreements with Makito Aviation for FBO and fuel farm at Yakima Air Terminal (7-0)
• Directed staff to prepare legislation approving comprehensive plan amendment and rezone near 2300 E. Birch St (7-0)
• Approved preliminary plat of Rainier Court Phase 5, a 22-lot subdivision near 406 N. 92nd Ave (7-0)
• Passed ordinance amending Titles 14, 15, 16 to require land-use appeals go directly to Superior Court (7-0)
• Approved MOU with WATPA for three Police Grappler Systems (7-0)
• Passed ordinance amending ambulance services code (YMC 5.96.020) (7-0)
• Held first reading of ordinances creating funds for opioid settlement revenue and police department pension (LEOFF 1)

City Council Study Session

The Yakima City Council is holding a study session to receive presentations on the Yakima Health District's Harm Reduction Program and the Police Department's 2024 drug trends. Council will also discuss the Main Street Tax Credit, potential projects, and possibly enter into an agreement with the Downtown Association of Yakima (DAY). No final votes are expected at this study session.

• Presentation on Yakima Health District Harm Reduction Program
• Presentation on Yakima Police Department Drug Trends in 2024
• Discussion on Main Street Tax Credit, possible projects, and agreement with Downtown Association of Yakima

The City Council approved a contract amendment to extend the promotional agreement with the Downtown Association of Yakima (DAY) during a study session. The council also heard presentations from the Yakima Health District on the Harm Reduction Program and the Yakima Police Department on drug trends, but took no action on those items.

• Approved contract amendment extending promotional agreement with Downtown Association of Yakima (DAY) (7-0)
• Heard presentation on Yakima Health District Harm Reduction Program (no action taken)
• Heard presentation on Yakima Police Department drug trends (no action taken)
• Adjourned to next regular meeting on November 19, 2024 (unanimous)

City Council Regular Meeting

The Yakima City Council will hold public hearings on comprehensive plan amendments and rezonings for multiple properties, and a first public hearing on the 2025-2026 preliminary biennial budget. The consent agenda includes contracts for traffic signalization and pedestrian safety projects, an interlocal agreement for stormwater services, and agreements for CDBG/HOME grants and a DUI officer position. The council will also discuss the 2025 state and federal legislative priorities and introduce an ordinance amending the 2024 budget.

• Public hearings on Comprehensive Plan Amendments and Rezones for parcels near Viola Ave/Simpson Ln, 7500 W Nob Hill Blvd, and 8603/8604 Ahtanum Rd
• First public hearing on the 2025-2026 Preliminary Biennial Budget and property tax levy for fiscal year 2025
• Resolution authorizing contract with Knobel's Electric Inc. for the S 3rd Ave & Division St Signalization Project
• Resolution authorizing interlocal agreement with City of Union Gap for stormwater laboratory services
• Resolution authorizing agreement with Washington Traffic Safety Commission for funding a dedicated DUI officer position

The City Council passed two ordinances to levy property taxes for the 2025-2026 Biennial Budget. Council also approved three zoning and comprehensive plan amendments and adopted the 2025 State and Federal Legislative Priorities.

• Passed Ordinance 2024-032 to increase 2025 regular levy up to 101% (7-0)
• Passed Ordinance 2024-033 to levy taxes for 2025 Budget expenses (7-0)
• Approved Comprehensive Plan Amendment and Rezone for 2000 block of Viola Ave and Simpson Ln (7-0)
• Approved Comprehensive Plan Amendment and Rezone for 7500 W Nob Hill Blvd (7-0)
• Approved Comprehensive Plan Amendment and Rezone for 8603 & 8604 Ahtanum Rd (7-0)
• Adopted 2025 State and Federal Legislative Priorities (Unanimous)
• Approved Small Business Saturday proclamation (Unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including contracts for signalization, pedestrian safety, and a DUI officer position (7-0)

City Council Study Session

The Yakima City Council will hold a study session to review the proposed 2025-2026 Biennial Priority Based Budget. The session includes presentations on Public Works Administration, REET 1 & 2, Streets and Traffic, and Parks and Recreation.

• Review of Proposed 2025-2026 Biennial Priority Based Budget
• Public Works Administration Budget Presentation
• REET 1 & 2 Budget Presentation
• Streets and Traffic Budget Presentation
• Parks and Recreation Budget Presentation

The Yakima City Council held a study session to review proposed 2025-2026 biennial budget presentations for Public Works, REET, Streets and Traffic, and Parks and Recreation. Staff outlined accomplishments, goals, and revenue options including new taxes and fees. The Council requested additional revenue-generating amounts for each option, but took no votes on the budget. The only action was a unanimous vote to adjourn.

• Requested additional information on revenue options for proposed budget (no vote)
• Adjourned to November 4, 2024 regular meeting (unanimous)

City Council Study Session

The Yakima City Council will hold a study session to review the proposed 2025-2026 biennial budget and discuss domestic water rate and fee changes. The meeting also includes a public comment period and an executive session on collective bargaining.

• Review of Proposed 2025-2026 Biennial Priority Based Budget Session
• Domestic Water Rate and Fee Study
• Resolution authorizing Interlocal Agreement with Washington Traffic Safety Commission
• Public comment period (15 minutes)
• Executive Session regarding collective bargaining

The City Council adopted Resolution R-2024-194 authorizing an interlocal agreement with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission for funding to provide traffic safety emphasis patrols. The motion passed 6-1, with Councilmember Glenn voting no. Other items were informational presentations on the proposed 2025-2026 budget and a domestic water rate study, with no formal action taken.

• Approved Resolution R-2024-194 authorizing interlocal agreement for traffic safety emphasis patrols (6-1)
• Unanimously adjourned to executive session for collective bargaining
• Unanimously adjourned to next study session on October 29

City Council Regular Meeting

The Yakima City Council holds a regular meeting with an executive session on pending litigation, public comment, and a consent agenda approving routine items and setting public hearing dates. The council will conduct a public hearing on a right-of-way vacation petition from YWCA for S. 10th Avenue, consider several ordinance amendments (tourism promotion area, long-term parking permits, shopping cart regulations), and authorize the use of opioid settlement funds for a community court case manager. The meeting also includes a review of the proposed 2025-2026 biennial budget with presentations from multiple city divisions.

• Public hearing on petition to vacate S. 10th Avenue between W. Chestnut Avenue and W. Walnut Street for YWCA
• Resolution authorizing opioid settlement money to fund a Municipal Community Court Case Manager for five years (with option to extend)
• Ordinances amending Tourism Promotion Area fees, long-term parking permits, and shopping cart regulations
• Review of 2025-2026 Priority Based Budget with presentations from Civil, Transit, Engineering, Planning, Code Admin, and Fire divisions
• Consent agenda includes setting November 4 and 19 hearing dates for 2025 property tax, biennial budget, and a rezone near 2300 E. Birch Street

The Yakima City Council voted 6-1 to vacate a portion of S. 10th Avenue between W. Chestnut Avenue and W. Walnut Street for the YWCA, after a motion to also waive all charges failed 4-3. The Council also voted 7-0 to remand the N. 92nd Avenue vacation proposal back to the Hearing Examiner for additional testimony. Other actions included approving a tourism promotion area amendment, increasing long-term parking permits to 60% of available spaces, and passing new shopping cart regulations (6-1) along with associated fee updates (7-0).

• Approved consent agenda including multiple resolutions and ordinances (7-0)
• Motion to vacate S. 10th Ave right-of-way and waive all charges for YWCA failed (4-3)
• Approved vacation of S. 10th Ave right-of-way without waiver (6-1)
• Remanded N. 92nd Ave vacation back to Hearing Examiner for additional testimony (7-0)
• Passed ordinance amending Tourism Promotion Area code (7-0)
• Passed ordinance increasing long-term parking permits to 60% of available spaces (7-0)
• Passed ordinance prohibiting shopping carts on public rights-of-way and in parks (6-1)
• Adopted resolution updating Master Fee Schedule for shopping cart infraction fees (7-0)

City Council Study Session

The Yakima City Council holds a study session to discuss a proclamation, airport rates and fees, and traffic collision hotspots. The primary focus is a review of the proposed 2025-2026 Biennial Priority Based Budget, including presentations on indigent defense, public safety, prosecution, municipal court, police, solid waste, and clean city divisions. No final decisions are made at this study session.

• Staff Sergeant Jack J. Pendleton Day proclamation
• Airport rates and fees discussion
• Intersections with highest number of traffic collisions review
• 2025-2026 Biennial Priority Based Budget review with presentations from multiple city departments

The council held a study session with no formal votes on policy or spending. They issued a proclamation for Staff Sergeant Jack J. Pendleton Day, and received presentations on airport rate increases, intersection safety, and proposed 2025-2026 biennial budgets including indigent defense, prosecution, municipal court, police, solid waste, and Clean City programs. A 3% annual solid waste rate increase and a gradual airport rate catch-up plan were discussed but not voted on.

• Proclaimed October 12, 2024 as Staff Sergeant Jack J. Pendleton Day (accepted by VFW Post 379)
• Discussed airport rate catch-up plan: 3-year to fair market value, then 5% annual increases (no vote)
• Discussed top ten high-collision intersections and safety strategies (no vote)
• Received presentations on 2025-2026 biennial budgets for public safety, courts, police, solid waste, and Clean City (no vote)
• Staff proposed 3% annual rate increase for solid waste services (no vote)
• Discussed potential bulky waste collection program and rates (no vote)
• Adjourned to October 15, 2024 regular meeting (unanimous)

City Council Regular Meeting

The City Council will discuss the 2025-2026 Preliminary Priority Based Budget and the purchase of property at 10 North 9th Street. The body is also scheduling public hearings for three separate rezoning and comprehensive plan amendment requests.

• Purchase of property at 10 North 9th Street
• Acceptance of $353,998 grant from the Office on Violence Against Women
• Public hearing on right-of-way petition to vacate part of N. 92nd Ave north of Summitview Ave
• Contract with Knobel's Electric Inc for N. 2nd Street & Staff Sgt. Pendleton Way sidewalk replacement
• Scheduling of Nov 4 hearings for rezone requests at Viola Ave/Simpson Ln, 7500 W Nob Hill Blvd, and 8603 & 8604 Ahtanum Rd

Council approved a $13.7M contract with Interwest Construction for the Nelson Dam Removal Project's conveyance improvements, and authorized the purchase of 10 North 9th Street (the Chamber building) for $5-1. They also approved a lease with Perry Technical Institute for cemetery parking and delayed a decision on a right-of-way vacation for Columbia Ridge Homes for two weeks. Discussion on reducing needle exchange programs resulted in no action; Council requested a presentation from the Yakima County Health District.

• Approved $13.7M agreement with Interwest Construction for Nelson Dam Removal Project Phase 2 (6-0)
• Approved purchase of property at 10 North 9th Street (Chamber building) (5-1)
• Approved lease with Perry Technical Institute for overflow parking at Tahoma Cemetery (6-0)
• Delayed decision on right-of-way vacation for Columbia Ridge Homes on N. 92nd Ave for two weeks (4-1)
• Approved interlocal agreement with Kittitas Valley Fire and Rescue for Joint Training Academy (6-0)
• Accepted $353,998 OVW grant for domestic violence prosecution (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including claim report, change order, sidewalk replacement contract (6-0)
• Set public hearing dates for three comprehensive plan amendments and rezones (Nov 4, 2024)

City Council Regular Meeting

The City Council will hold a public meeting regarding the University District Annexation near Terrace Heights Dr., University Parkway, and Highway 24. The body will also consider a right-of-way vacation for N. Front Street and a second reading of an ordinance to amend the 2024 Budget.

• Public meeting for University District Annexation near Terrace Heights Dr., University Parkway, and Highway 24
• Public hearing on right-of-way petition to vacate part of N. Front Street and an alley
• Ordinance to amend the 2024 Budget and make appropriations from unappropriated fund balances
• Contract for Yakima Air Terminal Building Modernization with WA State Dept of Commerce CERB
• Right-of-way petition for YWCA Yakima to vacate S. 10th Ave. between W. Chestnut Ave. and W. Walnut St.

The council held a second public meeting on the proposed University District annexation and voted 5-2 to accept Map 4 (about 588 acres) and direct staff to create an official petition. It also voted 5-2 to require the annexed area to assume any portion of existing city indebtedness and to simultaneously adopt a comprehensive plan. Earlier, the council approved an ordinance updating the classification and compensation plan for city employees, along with resolutions for fleet management, DUI enforcement, and police services for the Central Washington Fair. Several other routine items were approved, including lodging tax allocations and a right-of-way vacation.

• Approved LTAC lodging tax allocation recommendations for 2025 (unanimous).
• Approved consent agenda including Resolution R-2024-171 and Ordinance 2024-025 (7-0).
• Approved Ordinance 2024-026 updating Classification and Compensation Plan (7-0).
• Approved Ordinance 2024-027 vacating alley and N. Front St. right-of-way (7-0).
• Voted 5-2 to accept Map 4 for University District annexation and begin petition process.
• Voted 5-2 to require assumption of existing city indebtedness by annexed area.
• Voted 5-2 to require simultaneous adoption of comprehensive plan.
• Approved resolutions for fleet management, DUI enforcement, and fair police services (all 7-0).

City Council Regular Meeting

The Yakima City Council regular meeting includes a consent agenda with routine items and department items. Key actions include a resolution to accept grant funding from the Washington State Department of Commerce for construction of the Aquatic Center at Martin Luther King Jr. Park, a resolution authorizing a Downtown Development & Promotion Agreement with DAY, and first reading of an ordinance amending the 2024 budget. The council will also discuss the Gang Reduction Intervention Task Force (GRIT) and a proposed transfer of oversight.

• Resolution authorizing grant from WA Dept of Commerce for Aquatic Center at MLK Jr. Park
• Ordinance amending 2024 budget (first reading)
• Resolution authorizing Downtown Development & Promotion Agreement with DAY and use of Main Street Tax funds
• Gang Reduction Intervention Task Force (GRIT) discussion and oversight transfer proposal
• Resolution for Interlocal Agreement with Yakima County for Nelson Phase 2 Conveyance Improvements

The City Council approved a $7.6 million grant for the Nelson Phase 2 Pipeline Conveyance Improvements Project. Council also amended the Gang Reduction Intervention Task Force Charter and approved several interlocal agreements with Yakima County.

• Approved $7.6M Department of Ecology grant for Nelson Phase 2 Pipeline project (7-0)
• Approved amendments to the Gang Reduction Intervention Task Force Charter (7-0)
• Approved Downtown Development and Promotion Agreement with Downtown Association of Yakima (7-0)
• Approved $135,311.92 in unused CHIP grant funds for Fruitvale Housing Project (7-0)
• Approved $72,750 grant for Aquatic Center at Martin Luther King Jr. Park (7-0)
• Approved settlement agreement in the Ricky Garcia lawsuit (7-0)
• Approved interlocal agreements with Yakima County for stormwater and bacterial sampling services (7-0)
• Scheduled future discussions on dangerous intersections and needle exchange programs (Unanimous)

City Council Study Session

The Yakima City Council will hold a study session to discuss residential parking and draft proclamations for Fruit Row National Historic District and Yakima Harvest Month. The body will also review recommendations for board and commission appointments.

• Residential parking discussion
• Draft recognition of Fruit Row National Historic District
• Yakima Harvest Month proclamation
• Council Nominating Committee appointment recommendations

The City Council unanimously approved recommendations for three board and commission appointments. Council also approved a proclamation recognizing the Fruit Row National Historic District and Yakima Harvest Month. The session included a presentation on residential parking ordinances and proposed angled parking in specific downtown areas.

• Approved proclamation for Fruit Row National Historic District and Yakima Harvest Month (Unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Lisa Graham to Henry Beauchamp Jr. Community Center Advisory Board (Unanimous)
• Approved appointment of David Brown to Public Facilities District Board (Unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Annaka Yockey to Parks and Recreation Commission youth position (Unanimous)
• Mayor proclaimed August 25 through August 31 as Yakima Valley Trolley Week

City Council Regular Meeting

The City Council will hold a public hearing to consider the East Yakima Business Area Annexation near Terrace Heights Dr., University Parkway, and Highway 24. The consent agenda includes routine items such as contract acceptances and resolutions. Department items include resolutions for CDBG-funded Aquatic Center construction at Martin Luther King, Jr. Park ($612,401) and sidewalk/street lighting improvements ($150,000), as well as ordinances establishing Stay Out of Drug Areas (SODA) orders.

• Public hearing on East Yakima Business Area Annexation
• Resolution authorizing $612,401 in CDBG funding for Aquatic Center at MLK Jr. Park
• Resolution authorizing $150,000 in CDBG funding for sidewalk and street lighting in low-to-moderate income areas
• Ordinance adding Chapter 6.13 on SODA (Stay Out of Drug Areas) Orders and resolution designating prohibited areas
• Resolution authorizing Interlocal Agreement with Sunnyside Fire Department for Joint Training Academy and Emergency Response

The City Council unanimously approved an ordinance creating Stay Out of Drug Areas (SODA) orders and a resolution designating prohibited areas. They also authorized $612,401 in CDBG funds for construction of the Aquatic Center at Martin Luther King, Jr. Park, $150,000 for sidewalk and street lighting improvements in low-to-moderate income neighborhoods, and ratified emergency repairs to Kissel Well. All substantive votes were 7-0. Council directed staff to return within one month with ideas to address homelessness.

• Adopted Ordinance 2024-024 adding Chapter 6.13 (SODA Orders) to the municipal code (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution R-2024-157 designating prohibited areas for SODA orders (7-0)
• Authorized $612,401 CDBG agreement for Aquatic Center at MLK Jr. Park (7-0)
• Authorized $150,000 CDBG agreement for sidewalk and street lighting improvements (7-0)
• Ratified emergency well pump repair at Kissel Well via Resolution R-2024-153 (7-0)
• Approved Resolution R-2024-156 to seek TSRP funding for a Traffic Safety Resource Prosecutor (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2024-023 amending administrative department functions (7-0)
• Approved multiple consent agenda items including insurance broker contract and fire training interlocal (7-0)

City Council Regular Meeting

The City Council will conduct a regular meeting to address various administrative resolutions and city agreements. The session includes the swearing-in of the City Manager and a review of the 2024 2nd Quarter Financial Report.

• Administration of Oath of Office to City Manager Victoria Baker
• Notice of Intent to Commence Annexation for East Yakima Business Area
• Agreement with HLA Engineers and Surveyors for a pedestrian bridge over Wide Hollow Creek
• Resolution authorizing the Kroger Opioid Settlement
• Ordinance amending Municipal Code Section 1.80.040 regarding purchases without bids

The council unanimously approved a resolution to oppose a federal proposal increasing truck weights and dimensions, and adopted a new ordinance raising the city's no-bid purchase threshold to $100,000. A public hearing on the East Yakima Business Area annexation was set for August 20. The council also approved the Kroger opioid settlement agreement, an electronic storage detection K9 program, and other contracts. Additionally, the council voted to schedule a future discussion on moving council meetings to Mondays when elections fall on Tuesdays.

• Approved letters opposing federal truck weight increase (7-0)
• Set August 20 public hearing for East Yakima annexation (unanimous)
• Approved ESD K9 program with police (7-0)
• Approved participation in Kroger opioid settlement (7-0)
• Renewed tourism promotion agreement with visitors bureau (7-0)
• Approved purchase of asset management systems (7-0)
• Amended chamber of commerce property sale agreement (7-0)
• Raised no-bid purchase limit to $100,000 via ordinance (7-0)

City Council Study Session

The Yakima City Council study session will discuss several items including a proclamation for Overdose Awareness Day, a resolution authorizing the mayor to execute an employment agreement for City Manager with Victoria Baker, and a resolution amending the ARPA-funded contract with YWCA for a domestic violence shelter. Additionally, rate studies for refuse, wastewater, and stormwater services, and a final annexation study report will be reviewed. The session includes an executive session on litigation risks and unlawful camping ordinances.

• Draft Overdose Awareness Day Proclamation
• Resolution authorizing employment agreement for City Manager with Victoria Baker
• Resolution amending YWCA contract for domestic violence shelter using ARPA funds
• Rate studies for refuse, wastewater, and stormwater
• Final Annexation Study report

The City Council approved the appointment of Victoria Baker as City Manager and extended a funding agreement with the YWCA for a domestic violence shelter. Council also reviewed rate studies for utilities and a final annexation study report.

• Approved employment agreement for City Manager Victoria Baker (7-0)
• Approved resolution extending ARPA funding agreement with YWCA for domestic violence shelter construction (7-0)
• Approved Overdose Awareness Day Proclamation (unanimous)
• Tabled action on refuse, wastewater, and stormwater rate increases until 2025-2026 biennial budget process

City Council Regular Meeting

The council will consider a consent agenda including resolutions to declare up to $8.6 million in ARPA funds as revenue replacement, accept state grants for the 34th Avenue & Fruitvale Boulevard roundabouts and other projects, and approve a settlement agreement. Department items include a resolution adopting the city's strategic priorities for 2024-2025, an ordinance amending one-way streets on Lewis Avenue, and agreements for downtown transit center improvements and airport terminal design. Public hearings are scheduled later in the meeting.

• Resolution declaring up to $8.6 million in ARPA funds as Revenue Replacement (Loss Revenue)
• Resolution authorizing acceptance of state grant for 34th Avenue & Fruitvale Boulevard Roundabouts Project
• Resolution adopting City of Yakima Strategic Priorities for 2024-2025
• Ordinance amending Municipal Code 9.50.290 - One-way Streets and Alleys for Lewis Avenue
• Resolution approving lease agreement with Comprehensive Healthcare for city-owned property

The council selected Vicki Baker as the next City Manager effective August 8, 2024. It also appointed Arthur Salido and Kevin Rangel to the Planning Commission (4-2) and approved over a dozen consent-agenda items including ARPA revenue replacement, state grants for sidewalk and bridge projects, and a settlement agreement. Other actions included a lease with Comprehensive Healthcare for a clinic site and a one-way street designation on Lewis Avenue.

• Selected Vicki Baker as City Manager (7-0)
• Appointed Arthur Salido and Kevin Rangel to Planning Commission (4-2, Brown abstaining)
• Approved consent agenda including ARPA revenue replacement (R-2024-127), 88th Ave sidewalk grant, Naches River bridge repair grant, Hertz rental car concession, airport lease amendment, and settlement with Manka lawsuit
• Accepted DOT grant for 34th/Fruitvale/River Road roundabouts (7-0, removed from consent agenda)
• Authorized WSDOT grant for Downtown Transit Center improvements (7-0)
• Approved lease with Comprehensive Healthcare for City-owned property (7-0)
• Authorized master agreement with MWA Architects for airport terminal modernization (7-0)
• Amended municipal code to make Lewis Avenue one-way southbound (7-0)

City Council Study Session

The Yakima City Council holds a study session with an executive session on a public employment applicant, public comment, and three study items. They will hold a public hearing and consider a resolution to declare property rights obtained by easement as surplus and dispose of them to the Yakima Housing Authority. The council will receive a presentation on draft city strategic priorities for 2024-2025 and discuss the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision in City of Grants Pass v. Johnson regarding homeless encampment restrictions.

• Public hearing and resolution to declare easement property rights surplus and transfer to Yakima Housing Authority
• Presentation of draft City of Yakima Strategic Priorities 2024-2025
• Discussion of Supreme Court decision in City of Grants Pass v. Johnson concerning homelessness
• Executive session to evaluate qualifications of a public employment applicant
• Public comment period (15 minutes)

The City Council adopted a resolution to declare property rights obtained by easement surplus and authorized the Yakima Housing Authority to dispose of them. The Council also discussed the City's strategic priorities and reviewed recent Supreme Court rulings on encampments, agreeing to future changes to local ordinances.

• Adopted Resolution R-2024-125 declaring property rights surplus (7-0)
• Authorized Yakima Housing Authority to dispose of property rights
• Discussed strategic priorities for 2024-2025 with no changes made
• Agreed to review and change current ordinances regarding encampments

City Council Special Meeting

The Yakima City Council is holding a special meeting to allow the public to meet and greet candidates for the city manager position. Public comment will be accepted both in-person and remotely.

• Public meet and greet with city manager candidates

The Yakima City Council held a special meeting on July 1, 2024, to introduce three city manager finalists—Richard Marsh Jr., Mike Gonzalez, and Vicki Baker—and to allow community members to interact with them. No formal decisions were made; the only action was a unanimous vote to adjourn to the next special meeting on July 2, 2024.

• Adjourned to July 2, 2024 special meeting (unanimous)

City Council Special Meeting

The Yakima City Council will interview finalists for the City Manager position and discuss next steps for the selection process. The meeting will also include a public comment period and an executive session to evaluate applicants.

• Interview of City Manager finalists
• Executive session to evaluate applicants
• Direction to staff regarding City Manager selection
• Public comment period
• City Hall - Council Chambers - 129 N 2nd Street

The Yakima City Council interviewed three finalists for City Manager and then voted on motions to enter contract negotiations. A motion to negotiate with Candidate #3 died for lack of a second. A motion for Candidate #5 failed 5-2. A motion for Candidate #9 carried 5-2, directing staff to proceed with contract negotiations.

• Motion to negotiate with Candidate #3 died for lack of a second
• Motion to negotiate with Candidate #5 failed 5-2
• Motion to negotiate with Candidate #9 carried 5-2
• Unanimously adjourned to executive session for 30 minutes to evaluate candidates
• Unanimously adjourned to the regular meeting at 5:15 p.m.

City Council Regular Meeting

The City Council will consider approving budget amendments, accepting various construction and restoration grants, and adopting a six-year transportation plan. The meeting includes a public hearing on these items.

• Approval of contract closeout for Miller Park Restroom
• Acceptance of grant for Aquatic Center construction
• Acceptance of grant for Capitol Theatre elevator rehabilitation
• Acceptance of grant for Wide Hollow Creek Pedestrian Bridge
• Public hearing on Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program

The council adopted the Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program for 2025–2030 and amended the Comprehensive Plan Capital Facilities Element. It also accepted a $1.125 million state grant for the MLK Jr. Park aquatic center and a $30,414 grant for Capitol Theatre elevator rehabilitation. A resolution adding July 27 as a permitted cruising day was approved. The council voted 6-1 to cancel bus transportation for the 4th of July event.

• Adopted Six-Year TIP 2025-2030 and amended capital facilities element (7-0)
• Accepted $1.125M state grant for aquatic center at MLK Jr. Park (consent agenda)
• Accepted $30,414 state grant for Capitol Theatre elevator rehab (consent agenda)
• Approved resolution adding July 27 as a permitted cruising day (7-0)
• Approved resolution for street vacation public hearing on July 25 (consent agenda)
• Approved agreement with Mid-Columbia Fisheries for riparian restoration (consent agenda)
• Accepted WSDOT grant for Wide Hollow Creek Pedestrian Bridge Improvement (7-0)
• Canceled bus transportation for 4th of July event (6-1)

City Council Study Session

The Yakima City Council will hold a study session on June 25, 2024, to discuss several items, including a possible one-day lifting of the fireworks ban for July 4th, a review of zoning and building permits for economic development, and appointments to the Planning Commission. The council will also recognize retiring Police Chief Matt Murray. No final decisions will be made at this study session.

• Discussion on lifting the fireworks ban for one day on July 4th
• Review of zoning and building permits related to business and economic development
• Council Nominating Committee recommendations for Planning Commission appointments
• Recognition of retiring Yakima Police Chief Matt Murray

The City Council postponed the report regarding Yakima Planning Commission appointments until the July 16 business meeting. Additionally, the Council reached a consensus not to move forward with lifting the fireworks ban for the July 4th holiday.

• Postponed Planning Commission appointment report to July 16 (unanimous)
• Declined to move forward with lifting the fireworks ban (consensus)

City Council Special Meeting

The Yakima City Council will convene for a special meeting to discuss and potentially adopt strategic priorities for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. The session will include a public comment period and a roll call.

• Council Strategic Priorities for 2024-2025
• Public Comment period (15 minutes)
• Roll Call
• In-person meeting at Yakima Convention Center
• Remote public comment available online

The City Council held a special meeting to solidify strategic priorities for 2024-2025. Staff will draft these priorities into final documents for future adoption. The meeting adjourned at 1:27 p.m.

• Council prioritized strategic planning for 2024-2025
• Staff to draft priorities into final documents for future adoption
• Meeting adjourned at 1:27 p.m.

City Council Special Meeting

The Yakima City Council will hold a special meeting to discuss Council Strategic Priorities for 2024-2025. The meeting will be conducted in person at the Yakima Convention Center.

• Council Strategic Priorities for 2024-2025
• Public comment period (15 minutes)
• Next meeting scheduled for Saturday, June 15, 2024

The council held a special meeting on June 14, 2024. Agenda item A was a presentation on the 2024-2025 strategic priorities planning process by Zach Ratkai of Sageland Strategic LLC, with additional remarks from the interim city manager. No public comment was offered, and no formal decisions or votes occurred; the meeting adjourned to the next day's special session.

City Council Regular Meeting

The Yakima City Council will consider a consent agenda of routine items, including the approval of payments and agreements for a convention center remodel and a pollinator garden. The body will also reschedule public hearings for a transportation program and a street vacation.

• Resolution authorizing agreement with Kitt Construction for Convention & Event Center Middle Bathrooms Remodel Project 2800
• Resolution authorizing agreement with Yakima Rotaract for pollinator garden at West Valley Community Park
• Resolution authorizing agreement with Merryman House for Domestic Violence Lethality Assessment Program
• Resolution rescheduling public hearing to July 2, 2024 for Six-year Transportation Improvement Program
• Resolution rescheduling public hearing to July 9, 2024 to declare property rights surplus to the City

The City Council approved the vacation of N. 4th St. between Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. and E. Lincoln Ave. Other key actions included approving a purchase agreement with the Greater Yakima Chamber of Commerce and updating the Property Maintenance Code.

• Approved vacating N. 4th St. right-of-way between E. Lincoln Ave. and E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. (6-1)
• Approved Commercial Purchase and Sale Agreement with Greater Yakima Chamber of Commerce (6-1)
• Passed ordinance amending Yakima Municipal Code Chapter 11.40 Property Maintenance Code (6-1)
• Approved agreement with Merryman House Domestic Violence Center for Lethality Assessment Program 2.0 (6-1)
• Approved lease agreement and MOU with Grace City Outreach (7-0)
• Approved agreement with Yakima Golf Organization for youth golf at Fisher Park (7-0)
• Approved agreement with Yakima Rotaract for pollinator garden at West Valley Community Park (7-0)
• Approved agreement with Kitt Construction & Development LLC for Convention & Event Center bathroom remodel (7-0)

City Council Special Meeting

The Yakima City Council will hold a special meeting to select finalists for the City Manager position. The meeting will include a public comment period and an executive session to evaluate employment applicants.

• Selection of finalists for City Manager
• Executive session to evaluate public employment applicants
• Public comment period (15 minutes)
• Meeting held at City Hall, 129 N 2nd Street

The City Council voted on several candidates to move forward as finalists for the City Manager position. Three applicants were approved to be invited to Yakima for final interviews, while four other candidates were rejected.

• Approved applicant number 9 as City Manager finalist (5-2)
• Denied candidate 1 as City Manager finalist (4-3)
• Denied candidate 10 as City Manager finalist (6-1)
• Denied candidate 6 as City Manager finalist (4-3)
• Approved candidate 5 as City Manager finalist (4-3)
• Approved candidate 3 as City Manager finalist (5-2)
• Denied candidate 27 as City Manager finalist (7-0)

City Council Study Session

The City Council will hold a study session to review several city programs and updates. Discussion items include the status of ARPA funds allocation and the Cascade Mill Site Parkway.

• Juneteenth Freedom Week proclamation
• Resolution for Yakima County 9-1-1 Ambulance Transport Services agreement
• Review of the Clean City Program
• History of Downtown Business Improvement Districts
• Update on Cascade Mill Site Parkway

The City Council adopted a resolution regarding 9-1-1 ambulance transport services and directed staff to reassign remaining ARPA funds to the General Fund. Council also received updates on the Clean City Program, downtown business districts, and the Cascade Mill Site Parkway.

• Adopted Resolution R-2024-107 regarding Yakima County 9-1-1 Ambulance Transport Services (6-0)
• Directed staff to reassign $805,776 from three completed projects as revenue replacement
• Directed staff to designate remaining $7.69 million in ARPA funds as revenue replacement for the General Fund
• Proclaimed June 10, 2024 through June 19, 2024 as Juneteenth Freedom Week

City Council Regular Meeting

The Yakima City Council will consider approving routine items like council minutes and financial updates, as well as a contract for a chiller replacement project. The body will also set dates for a public hearing on a property disposal resolution and authorize a collective bargaining agreement with a labor union.

• Approval of 2024 1st Quarter Financial Update
• Project Completion and Contract Acceptance with CP Mechanical LLC for YPD Chiller Replacement Project 2607
• Resolution setting date of June 18, 2024 for a public hearing on the Six-year Transportation Improvement Program
• Resolution setting date of June 25, 2024 for a public hearing to dispose of property rights to the Yakima Housing Authority
• Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a Collective Bargaining Agreement with Teamsters Local 760

The council unanimously approved a collective bargaining agreement with Teamsters Local 760 covering Public Works Division Managers for 2024-2027. They also set June 17 for a special meeting to evaluate city manager candidates and early July for community meet-and-greet and final interviews. Two motions were passed: directing staff to add a discussion on forming a financial advisory committee to the next business meeting, and adding a summary of the Grants Pass court case and actionable steps to a July meeting.

• Approved consent agenda including financial update, contracts, and hearing dates (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution R-2024-105 appointing City Engineer as WSDOT signor (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution R-2024-106 authorizing Teamsters Local 760 collective bargaining agreement for 2024-2027 (7-0)
• Consensus reached to hold June 17 special meeting for city manager candidate evaluation and early July meet-and-greet
• Motion passed to add discussion on forming a financial advisory committee to next business meeting (unanimous)
• Motion passed to add Grants Pass court case summary and actionable steps to a July business meeting (unanimous)
• Approved adjournment to next study session on June 11, 2024 (unanimous)