2009-07-28_PWETC_AgendaPacket - Laserfiche WebLink

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Chair DeBenedet sought City Council input on whether the PWET was following the charge of the City Council; and how to proceed in the future. Mayor Klausing recognized his original opposition to the creation of the PWET, since he failed to see a clear mission for their creation; however, he noted that the PWET had developed into a good niche for those items not falling within land use issues; and he found the work and recommendation of the group exciting in the decision-making process. Mayor Klausing noted the personal and professional expertise brought to the PWET by individual Commissioners as they assisted the staff and the City in researching various issues. Councilmember Roe noted his review of the PWET discussion on the asphalt plant proposal, and how comprehensive and fascinating he had found their ques-tions and understanding of the issue before them. Councilmember Roe noted the PWET's frustration in determining how they fit into some land use discussions; and encouraged the group to look at the upcoming zoning code update process over the next year to determine whether they had any role in uses in specific ar-eas, and looked forward to receiving their comments related to that update. Councilmember Ihlan expressed support for the development of apath-way/sidewalk plan and network to achieve safety for pedestrians and/or bikers throughout the community, as well as when crossing busy intersections. Coun-cilmember Ihlan opined that she would like the PWET to routinely review all land use issues having elements related to their review, rather than issues coming to the City Council first, and then being referred to the PWET, noting that some com-munities had a stormwater review process before land use approvals, and sug-gested that become routine practice rather than the exception. Councilmember Ih-lan also spoke in support of a stormwater quality ordinance that would bebroad-based and look at all sources and related issues. Councilmember Johnson concurred with Councilmember Ihlan's suggestion to make the PWET part of land use reviews, allowing for broader involvement of citizens in the land use process, and allowing the PWET as one more opportunity for them to be made aware of potential projects. Councilmember Johnson en-couraged the PWET to attend the one or more of the town hall meetings to engage citizens in their related budgeting concerns as outlined in their report. Council-member Johnson expressed his personal appreciation for the work of the PWET and skill set they each brought to the commission. Commissioners recognized the receptiveness of and good information provided by staff in assisting the PWET in their work; recognizing the limited time re-sources based on other workload responsibilities. Mayor Klausing thanked Commissioners for their attendance, and recognized staff liaisons to the various advisory commissions, all collectively helping the City Council in their decision-making for the community.