ROLL CALL
Mayor requested a roll call because of the public hearing item on the agenda. Councilmembers present were Stucky, Hoffmire, Evans, Munns, and Mayor Pro Tem Hizon. Councilmember Marshall was excused, and Councilmember Woessner notified the Council he would arrive about a half hour late to the meeting.
COMMUNITY PARTNER PRESENTATIONS
Windmill Update – Rotary Club of Oak Harbor
Rotary Club of Oak Harbor President Brian Jones presented the background and update regarding the Windmill project. It will be a monument that provides a photo opportunity, rental space, bathrooms, and a barbecue area for making memories. This new version will not be just a storage shed.
Mr. Jones requested that the City promote the project as a joint project, provide guidance, own the finished project, and keep it open to the public. The presentation included showing drawings of the potential Windmill, a map of the location, and updates on the process. The Windmill Committee is working on material quotes, permits, and fundraising. The community can follow the project online at OHWindmill.com.
Council asked about materials, maintenance, the reason Brian is involved in the project, a request to update the Windmill website, and the fundraising to date ($32,000 raised to date as well as approximately $200,000 in in-kind donations and commitments). Mr. Jones requested Council support. Members of the Council suggested a proclamation/resolution of support and newspaper articles or social media to share the Council’s support for the project. Council thanked the community volunteers working on the project.
FINANCE
Public Hearing: Revenue Sources and Property Taxes for the Upcoming 2023-2024 Biennial Budget
Finance Director David Goldman presented the first of three required presentations for the annual budget per RCW 84.55.120. This presentation highlighted the revenue, sources of revenue, and projections of future revenue for the City. In addition, Director Goldman noted that if the Fire Levy passes, the revenue will be added to the budget after the election is certified.
Utilities Rate Study – System Development Charges (SDCs) Adjustments
Finance Director David Goldman introduced Chris Gonzalez from FCS Group, Inc., who explained that SDCs contribute to the cost of the City’s utility infrastructure. The calculation methodology is the cost of the existing asset (system), plus future capital project cost, divided by the existing Equivalent Residential Units (ERU) and future growth to develop the total cost.
Mr. Gonzalez reviewed the SDC Survey for a ¾” Single-Family Meter. However, he noted that some comparable examples, like the City of Marysville, have not updated charges for ten years. Council discussed the options for addressing the SDC charges. Public Works Director Steve Schuller commented about his perspective on the long-term issue and challenges [in Oak Harbor and the nation] regarding infrastructure funding.
Mayor Severns called for a five-minute break between 4:00 and 4:05 pm. The meeting was called back to order by Mayor Severns at 4:07 pm.
ADMINISTRATION
City of Oak Harbor: Financial Primer, Part 2
Finance Director David Goldman presented the budget primer on expenses and where all costs are charged. Director Goldman walked through all expenditures in detail. The major expense categories are:
- Personnel – 28%
- Operating & Maintenance – 59%
- Capital Outlay – 1%
- Transfers – 12%
Upcoming budget presentations will include Project Funding and Budgeting, Investments, and Debt.
City Administrator’s Report
City Administrator Blaine Oborn presented the monthly City Administrator’s report and highlighted projects and department activities.
- The upcoming in-person meetings with the Parks & Recreation Director candidates are on Friday, September 30. City Council has an opportunity to participate in meetings with candidates.
- Items for consideration and discussion at the October 4 City Council Meeting include:
- Further discussion of the top ten Council goals
- Consideration of the Economic Specialist position.
ADJOURN
The meeting adjourned at 4:43 pm.
WATCH THE MEETING ONLINE
The City’s YouTube channel includes a video for community viewing. The videos are also available on Cable Channel 10/HD 1090.
SUBMIT PUBLIC COMMENT
Options for submitting a public comment to City Council are available at www.oakharbor.org/publiccomment.
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About the City of Oak Harbor
The City of Oak Harbor is located on Whidbey Island in Washington State. It is a part of Island County. The City was incorporated in 1915 and operates under the Mayor-Council form of government. Learn more at www.oakharbor.org or follow www.Facebook.com/OakHarbor.
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