03/21/2023 - Work Study - Packetj ..
IYuI. ,
Mayor:
Rob Putaansuu
Administrative Official
Councilmembers:
MarkTrenary (Mayor Pro-Tempore)
E/D & Tourism Committee, Chair
Utilities/Sewer Advisory Committee
Transportation Committee
KRCC-alt
Shawn Cucciardi
Finance Committee
E/D & Tourism Committee
Lodging Tax, Chair
Fred Chang
Economic Development & Tourism Committee
Land Use Committee
Transportation Committee
Jay Rosa pepe
Finance Committee,
Land Use Committee
KRCC, PSRC-alt, PSRCTranspol-alt, KRCCTranspol
alt, KRCC Planpol-alt,
John Clauson
Finance Committee, Chair
Utilities/Sewer Advisory Committee
Kitsap Public Health District-alt
Cindy Lucarelli
Festival of Chimes & Lights Committee, Chair
Utilities/Sewer Advisory Committee, Chair
Kitsap Economic Development Alliance
Scott Diener
Land Use Committee, Chair
Transportation Committee
Department Directors:
Nicholas Bond, AICP
Development Director
Tony Lang
Public Works Director
Tim Drury
Municipal Court Judge
Noah Crocker, M.B.A.
Finance Director
Matt Brown
Police Chief
Brandy Wallace, MIMIC, CPRO
City Clerk
Meeting Location:
Council Chambers, V Floor
216 Prospect Street
Port Orchard, WA 98366
Contact us:
(360) 876-4407
cityhall@portorchardwa.gov
City of Port Orchard Council Work Study Session
March 21, 2023
6:30 p.m.
Pursuant to the Open Public Meetings Act, the City Council is conducting its public
meeting in the Council Chambers at City Hall. Members of the public may view and
provide public comment during the meeting in person at City Hall, via the online
platform zoom (link below), or via telephone (number below). The public may also
view the meeting live on the City's YouTube channel.
Remote access
Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/J/88171057488
Zoom Webinar ID: 8817105 7488
Zoom Call -In: 1 253 215 8782
Guiding Principles
• Are we raising the bar?
• Are we honoring the past, but not living in the past?
• Are we building connections with outside partners?
• Is the decision -making process positively impacting diversity, equity, and
inclusion?
CALL TO ORDER
Pledge of Allegiance
1. Council member Salary (Lund/Archer)
Estimated Time: 60 Minutes
2. Report on Forthcoming Enforcement Code Amendments (Archer)
Estimated Time: 15 Minutes
3. Updated Procedures for Response to Unauthorized Trespassi
/Camping on Public Property (Archer)
Estimated Time: 30 Minutes
Executive Session Pursuant to RCW 42.30.110, the City Council may hold an
executive session. The topic(s) and the session duration will be announced
prior to the executive session.
Good of the Order
°On'r��
Issue Title:
Meeting Date:
Time Required
Attendees:
City of Port Orchard
Work Study Session Executive Summary
Councilmember Salary
March 21, 2023
60 minutes
Human Resources Director Debbie Lund
City Attorney Charlotte Archer
Back to Agenda
Action Requested At This Meeting: Discussion and consensus as to a salary
recommendation for councilmember terms beginning January 1, 2024, for action at a future
meeting.
Issue: At the council's request, staff has researched compensatory salary information from
neighboring jurisdictions related to the salary paid for elected councilmember positions.
Background: The current councilmember pay was effective January 1, 2013. Councilmember
pay has not increased since. Pay changes made by current councilmembers are effective at
the beginning of the next term for each councilmember position. 4 council positions are up
for election this fall. Any change in councilmember compensation would be effective
January 1, 2024, provided that the action is completed prior to the November 2023 general
election.
The Finance Committee reviewed the attached memo dated January 6, 2023, at their
January 20, 2023 meeting and requested that the conversation be brought to the full
council. Please note, an error in the calculations on page 4 has been corrected.
Recommendation:
1. Councilmembers are currently paid a monthly salary. The City pays bi-weekly. This
creates a situation (two months a year) in which staff has to manually edit payroll to
avoid overpaying councilmembers by paying them three times a month, rather than
the usual two times a month. Therefore, staff would prefer a salary based on an
annual amount that is evenly divisible by 26 (rather than 24).
Page 2 of 26
2. Options explored by the Finance Committee. Back to Agenda
Option using historic salary study model: The cities of Bainbridge Island, Bremerton,
Gig Harobr and Poulsbo and Kitsap County are the historic comparable jurisidictions
for the City of Port Orchard. For purposes of elected officials, Kitsap County is not a
good comparable. Using the salaries for councilmembers from the other cities, the
average pay is $1,549.41 per month or $18,592.92 per year. If the Port Orchard City
Council uses this model, this would be an increase of $6,592.92 per year, a 54.94%
increase in salary.
Historic summary:
Current
Local Cities Average
Per Bi-weekly Payday
n/a
$715.11
Monthly
$1,000.00
1,549.41
Annually
12,000.00
18,592.92
Option 1: Understanding the concern that the Bainbridge Island councilmember pay
skews the average for the small sample, the attached January 6, 2023, memo shows
the average of the comparable jurisidictions without Bainbridge Island.
This results in a monthly pay of $1,065.87, or $12,790.44 annually. This equates to
$491.94 per pay day when paid 26 times a year. This would be a $790.44 increase
(6.59%) over the current annual salary for a Port Orchard city council member.
Option 1 summary:
Current
Option 1
Per Bi-weekly Payday
n/a
$491.94
Monthly
$1,000.00
1,065.87
Annually
12,000.00
12,790.44
Option 2: This option shown on the January 6, 2023, memo excludes the high and
low salaries (Bainbridge and Gig Harbor) from the list of surrounding cities.
This results in a monthly pay of $1,211.31, or $14,535.72 annually. If this option is
chosen. staff would ask that the annual salary be rounded to S14.535.82 which
eauates to an even S559.07 Der Dav day when said 26 times a vear. This would be a
$2,535.82 increase (21.13%) over the current annual salary for a Port Orchard city
council member.
Option 2 summary:
Current
Option 2
Per Bi-weekly Payday
n/a
$559.07
Monthly
$1,000.00
1, 211.318333x
Annually
12,000.00
14,535.82
Page 3 of 26
Back to Agenda
Option "Aberdeen": The other item from the January 6, 2023, memo that drew
attention was the City of Aberdeen model. Under this model, staff tracks the annual
COLA increases provided to non -represented employees of the City. Once a council
term expires, the accumulated COLA increases are applied to the salary for the newly
elected councilmembers term. As shown on page 4 of the January 6, 2023,
(corrected) memo, using this approach the newly elected 2024 councilmember
monthly pay would be $1,271.04, which equates to $15,252.48 annually. If this
option is chosen, staff would ask that the compensation policy be written so as to
increase the amount to the nearest (greater) calculation that is evenly divisible by 26.
In this case, that would be $15,252.64 per year. This would be a $3,252.64 increase
(27.11%) over the current annual salary for a Port Orchard city council member.
Option "Aberdeen" summary:
Current
Option
"Aberdeen"
Per Bi-weekly Payday
n/a
$586.64
Monthly
$1,000.00
1, 271.05333x
Annually
12,000.00
15,252.64
For your convenience, the chart below illustrates how these two options would
compare with jurisdictions historically used in the City's salary surveys.
Jurisdiction
Annual Salary
Bainbridge Island (2023)
$36,000.00
Port Orchard if Option Avg local cities (2024)
18,592.92
Bremerton (2023)
17,071.44
Port Orchard if Option "Aberdeen" (2024)
15,252.64
Port Orchard if Option 2 (remove high and low) (2024)
14,535.82
Port Orchard if Option 1 (w/o BI) (2024)
12,790.44
Poulsbo (2023)
12,000.00
Port Orchard (2023)
1Z000.00
Gig Harbor (2023)
9,300.00
Alternatives: Another method of establishing the pay of councilmembers is utilizing a Salary
Commission made up of citizen volunteers. City Attorney Archer has attached a memo with
more information on Salary Commissions.
Relationship to Comprehensive Plan: n/a
Attachments:
1) January 6, 2023 (corrected) memo to Finance Committee.
2) Updated Memo re Salary Commission.
Follow-up Notes & Outcomes:
Page 4 of 26
Back to Agenda
MEMORANDUM
To: Finance Committee Members
From: Debbie Lund, Human Resources Director
Date: January 6, 2023 [Corrected]
RE: Councilmember Pay Research
At the request of the City Council late last year, I have conducted salary research on
councilmember pay. This memo is the result of that research and is intended to show a
variety of data points for your consideration.
Using the same methodology as used in the 2020 Salary Study by an independent
consultant, the average pay from surrounding jurisdictions would be considered for
comparison purposes:
Jurisdiction
2023 Monthly Salairy
Bainbridge Island
3,000.00
Bremerton
1,422.62
Gig Harbor
775.00
Poulsbo
1,000.00
Kitsap County
n/a
Average
$1,549.41
Port Orchard
1,000.00
Based on comments/requests from some councilmembers, the following is also provided
for your information.
Option is Exclude Bainbridge Island, the highest monthly salary:
Jurisdiction
2023 Monthly Salary
Bainbfidge island
0
Bremerton
1,422.62
Gig Harbor
775.00
Poulsbo
1,000.00
Kitsap Count
n/a
Average excl. Bainbridge
$1,065.87
Port Orchard
1,000.00
Page 5 of 26
Back to Agenda
Option 2: Exclude both high and low from the data points, in this case, Bainbridge Island
and Gig Harbor respectively. This results in just two data points for comparison.
Jurisdiction
2023 Monthly Salary
BainbFidge island
0
Bremerton
1,422.62
Gig Har-beF
e0
Poulsbo
1,000.00
Kitsap County
n/a
Average excl. Bainbridge
and GigHarbor,
$1,211.31
Port Orchard
1 1,000.00
Due to the small sample, I expanded my review of Cities with populations nearest to Port
Orchard. For this review, I excluded cities in King County as well as cities in Eastern
Washington. The information below shows those six cities with populations nearest Port
Orchard. 3 smaller and 3 larger.
Jurisdiction
Population*
Population
compared to PO
County
2023 Monthly
Salary
Ridgefield
13,640
(2,760)
Clark
650.00
Ferndale
15,970
(430)
Whatcom
715.00
L nden
16,150
(250)
Whatcom
737.92
Aberdeen
17,040
640
Gras Harbor
465.00
Washougal
17,390
990
Clark
587.00+
Anacortes
17,880
1,48o
Skagit
1,200.00
Average
725.82
Port Orchard
16,400
1,000.00
* Per MRSC 2022 Washington City and Town Profiles
+ Unable to obtain 2023 salary. Using AWC salary survey 2022.
The following represents other data points that could be considered. It should be noted
that with such a small sample size, I cannot recommend a particular data point for use.
Jurisdiction
Population*
Pay per
capita
Meetings per
month*
Pay Per
meeting
Bainbridge Island
25,060
0.1197
4
750.00
Bremerton
45,220
0.0315
Weekly
328.30
Gig Harbor
12,540
0.0618
2
387.50
Poulsbo
12,180
0.0821
3
333.33
Average
o.0738
449.78
Avg excl. Bainbridge
0.0585
349.71
Avg excl. BI and GH
o.0568
330.82
Port Orchard
16,400
o.o610
3
333.33
* Per MRSC 2022 Washington City and Town Profiles
Page 6 of 26
Back to Agenda
The City Council also referenced salary commissions. Of our core comparable cities, here
is what I found.
Jurisdiction
Salary Commission
Bainbridge Island
Yes
Bremerton
Yes
Gig Harbor
Yes
Poulsbo
No
Port Orchard
No
Other topics that may be of interest:
PERS Membership Criteria
In order to be eligible for membership in PERS, an elected official must earn at least go
times the state minimum wage each month. The 2023 state minimum wage is $15.74•
go x $15.74 = $1,416.60. The Washington minimum wage is adjusted annually based on
the federal Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-
W).
Increasing/Deceasing Councilmember Salaries
Article 11, section 8 of the Washington state constitution prohibits the increase or
decrease of an elected official's salary after his or her election or during his or her term of
office. This prohibition, however, applies only to officials who set their own salary, as is
the case with the City of Port Orchard councilmembers. Consequently, any increase or
decrease in the salaries of those elected officials who set their own compensation may not
take effect until their next term of office.
According to MRSC this means the City Council must complete action related to
councilmember pay prior to the next November general election in which council
positions are elected.
Option for a Salary Commission. The City Attorney was asked to provide
information on a salary commission.
Cost of Living Increase (COLA)
Port Orchard City Councilmember salaries have not changed since 2013, when they were
increased from $771.24 to $1,00o per month. MRSC (Municipal Research and Services
Center) provides examples of municipal codes providing for an automatic annual salary
increases for elected officials. The information on the next page is provided for illustrative
purposes.
Page 7 of 26
Back to Agenda
Year
COLA
Calculated
Pay
Effective Date
2014
2.0%
1,020.00
10
1
2014
2015
1.6%
1,036.32
10
4
2015
2016
0.6%
1,042.54
4
1'7
2016
2017
2.0%
1,063.39
1
1
201'7
2018
2.5%
1,089.97
1
1
2018
2019
2.25%
1,114.50
1/1/2019
2019
1.05%
1,126.20
3
17
2019
2020
2.3%
1,152.10
1
1
2020
2021
2.0%
1,175.14
1
1
2021
2022
4.0%
1,222.15
1
1
2022
2023
4.0%
1,271.04
1
1
2023
Corrected
Corrected
Corrected
Corrected
Please note that COLAs at the City of Port Orchard are generally tied to the Seattle -
Tacoma -Bellevue CPI-U, which can differ from the federal CPI-W that is used for
purposes of escalating the Washington state minimum wage.
CPI related approaches
Legal counsel would need to advise as to whether the council could elect to increase future
councilmember pay using an annual or term -based COLA adjustment. If the council was
interested in such an approach, one possible solution might be to tie any COLA increases
to a fixed number or the COLA used for Washington's minimum wage, therefore avoiding
a COLA amount over which the council has control.
For example, the City of Lynden applies a fixed percentage of increase each year (3% per
year from 2019 to 2025 under their current Ordinance).
The City of Aberdeen tracks a specific CPI and applies the cumulative total at the
beginning of a councilmember's elected term. In other words, CPI is tracked but not
applied until a new term is started.
Page 8 of 26
INSLEE
BEST Back to Agenda
O
MEMORANDUM
TO: City of Port Orchard City Council (Previously provided to Finance Committee)
FROM: Charlotte Archer, City Attorney
DATE: For March 2023 Work Study
RE: Procedures for Modifying Council Compensation
QUESTION AND SHORT ANSWER
The Port Orchard City Council has requested a legal analysis regarding the mechanisms that may
be used to adjust compensation for elected officials, including but not limited to the establishment
of an independent salary. Port Orchard, as an optional code city, has the lawful authority to set
salaries for city council members one of two ways:
1. Adjustment of salary through the passage of an ordinance, provided said legislation may
not take immediate effect; or
2. Establishment of an independent salary commission.
While city council members are constitutionally barred from raising their own salaries for a current
term, a decision of a salary commissions could take effect immediately. Either method may
provide for annual increases to counter inflation.
AUTHORITY AND ANALYSIS
1. General Legal Parameters for Setting Council Compensation.
The Washington State Constitution provides sideboards for the methodology used to set
compensation, either through independent ordinances or a salary commission. Article XI, Sec. 8
provides that the salary of any county, city, town, or municipal officers shall NOT be increased or
diminished after his/her/their election, nor during the term of office. In essence, this provision
means that no sitting city legislative body may pass an ordinance or provision which would either
increase or decrease the compensation of its own members, because the change would not take
place until the following subsequent legislative term. The portion regarding elections also makes
it so that a sitting municipal legislative body cannot pass a lame -duck ordinance affecting the
salaries of incoming, elected officials. Article XI, Sec. 8's language effectively requires a city
council or similar body to pass an ordinance affecting their own compensation before an election
if they wish for it to take effect the following term, at the earliest.
IMANAGE\366922\0001\10635370.v 1-3/17/23
Inslee Best Doezie & Ryder P.S. Main: 425.455.1234 Fax: 425.635.7720
insleebest.com
Page 9 of 26
Back to Agenda Page 2 of 3
However, Article XXX, Sec. 1 of the Washington State Constitution impacts the ability of local
officials to adjust salaries. Here, the section provides that "[t]he compensation of all elective and
appointive state, county, and municipal officers who do not fix their own compensation ... may
be increased during their terms of office to the end that such officers and judges shall each severally
receive compensation for their services in accordance with the law in effect at the time the services
are being rendered" (emphasis added). In short, this addition to the state constitution allows the
salaries of local officials to be raised so long as that determination comes from a separate source.
Examples would be the city council approving a raise for a city clerk, or an independent salary
commission approving additional compensation for city council members themselves (so long as
the council had no influence on the raise).
As a mayor -council city, Port Orchard's city council has the power to pass an ordinance amending
the salaries of its city commission under RCW 35A.12.070. Any adjustment to the city council's
salary via this method would not take effect until the following subsequent legislative term,
regardless of whether it is an increase or decrease.
2. Optional Salary Commission
As an alternative to the traditional method of setting council compensation, pursuant to RCW
35.21.015 the City may establish an independent salary commission via an ordinance. The scope
of the delegation of authority must be stated in the ordinance and where the council has delegated
salary setting to a salary commission, they cannot act in derogation of that delegation unless and
until the commission has been dissolved.
The members of the commission:
• Are resident volunteers selected by the mayor, with the confirmation of the city council;
• Serve for appointments not longer than two terms;
• May be removed during their terms of office for incapacity, incompetence, neglect of duty,
malfeasance, or a disqualifying change of residence; and
• May not be an officer, official, or employee of the city or town, or any of their immediate
family members.
The commission's work is facilitated by staff who are required to provide the commission with all
requested data and information relevant to their analysis. Commissions typically meet no more
than once per year. Commission members may file any change in salary with the city clerk after
membership is decided, and the change shall be incorporated into the city budget without further
action, provided a salary decrease shall only take effect as to incumbent city elected officials at the
beginning of their next subsequent term of office.
Note that salary commissions, as with all city -initiated workgroups staffed by resident volunteers,
can sometimes be challenging to fill. Additionally, anecdotal data indicates that there is a
substantial burden on staff to facilitate the commission's meetings and collect, prepare and present
the requested data. Among the agencies currently utilizing salary commissions to set council
compensation are Bainbridge Island, Poulsbo, Bellingham, Auburn, Puyallup, and Kent. Notably,
the City of Lynnwood created a salary commission in 2019, only to disband it 2021, citing as bases
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Page 10 of 26
Page 3 of 3
for disbanding the significant staff time involved with the commission as well as a desire to ensure
that council compensation was high enough to encourage more community members to run for
office.
3. Optional Automatic Salary Increase By Ordinance
Alternatively, the City may also institute an automatic annual pay increase for councilmembers to
combat inflation or economic factors. Generally, there is nothing that prohibits such a provision
so long as it complies with the statutory and constitutional requirements above. If passed by an
action of the city council themselves, it could take effect as early as the following subsequent terms
of the members, and a salary commission could institute it immediately (potentially subject to a
referendum by the people). An example of this approach is the City of Bellingham:
"A. Effective January 1, 2013, the annual salary for members of the
city council shall be calculated as follows:
1. January 1, 2013, $1,893 per month;
2. The annual salary for council members shall increase annually
by three percent, beginning January 1, 2014."
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Page 11 of 26
Back to Agenda
City of Port Orchard
-= Work Study Session Executive Summary
`yam■�� � IIIAI _'a
Issue Title: Report on Forthcoming Enforcement Code Amendments
Meeting Date: March 21, 2023
Time Required: 15 Minutes
Attendees: City Attorney Archer and Nick Bond (DCD/Code Enforcement)
Action Requested At This Meeting: Receive briefing on upcoming proposed amendments
to Port Orchard Municipal Code (POMC) Chapter 2.64 (Code Enforcement Officer), Chapter
9.30 (Nuisances) and Title 20 (Unified Development Code) to harmonize enforcement and
appeal procedures for code enforcement.
Issue: Staff has been working on amendments to the Port Orchard Municipal Code and, in
particular, the provisions therein that set forth the means and methods for enforcement of
the POMC. This report will focus on the forthcoming amending ordinance.
Background: The City Council, exercising its police powers, has adopted various regulations
with a variety of enforcement mechanisms all set out in the municipal code. The POMC and
all regulations incorporated therein by reference (such as the International Fire Code,
International Building Code, etc.) set out applicable enforcement process, penalty and
administrative appeal procedure (if any). Staff are undertaking an effort to audit these
provisions to identify appropriate amendments to add clarity, avoid duplication, and remove
outdated provisions.
Relationship to Comprehensive Plan: N/A
Recommendation: Receive briefing and provide feedback.
Attachments: Chart of Existing Procedures/Penalties/Appeals
Page 12 of 26
Back to Agenda
POW
Infraction or Civil Penalty
Criminal Penalty
Appeal Procedure/Notes
1.04 — Code
Misdemeanor
General POMC penalty, unless
s ecified otherwise.
2.64 — Code Enforcement Officer
- Nuisance
$250
- Zoning
$150
- Sign Code
$250
- Conditions of Land Use Reclass.
$150
- Special Use Permit Conditions
$150
- Variance Conditions
$150
- Final Plat Conditions
$150
- Stormwater Management
$100-$1,000
- Shoreline Management
$10045,000
- Critical Areas
$100-$1,000
- Commercial Vehicle Parking
$250
- Not otherwise specified
$100
$500 (limited to every 30 days for
License issuance, denial, suspension,
5.12 — Business License
operation without license)
U p to $1,000. Each day is a violation.
revocation by license officer. Appeal
License officer may vary penalty, based
to Council, then Superior Court.
on various criteria.
5.20 — Cabarets
Up to $500 and/or 6 months in jail.
License issued, cancelled, revoked by
City Clerk. Appeals per POMC 5.12.
5.22 — Admissions Tax
Misdemeanor up to $500, "in addition
to civil penalties that may be imposed."
5.28 — Gambling
Up to $300 fine and/or 90 days in jail.
5.32 — Circuses and Carnivals
Up to $300 fine and/or 90 days in jail.
City Council issues & denies license.
5.36 — Junk Dealers
Revocation by City Council.
5.40 — Pawnbrokers
Gross Misdemeanor
Suspension/revocation by City
Council. Appeal to Superior Court.
5.44 — Peddlers & Hawkers
5.56 —Taxicabs
No license Offense $500
2 Offense — 0
3' or more - Misdemeanor
"Repeated violations" — revocation by
Other violations — $225050 / 5 days
Suspended or no WDL — Gross Misd.
resolution of City Council.
5.60 — Fireworks (sales)
Misdemeanor
Enforced by fire authority
Back to Agenda
POW
Infraction or Civil Penalty
Criminal Penalty
Appeal Procedure/Notes
5.80 — Sales or Use Tax
Misdemeanor
5.94 — Special Events
Class 2 ($125) infraction per RCW 7.80
5.96 — Temporary Vendors
"Class 1 infraction" - $250
Revocation by City Clerk.
Appeal per POMC 5.12.
Suspension/revocation — Hearing
5.97 — Tow Companies
before "administrative hearing officer
who shall be the judge... of the Port
Orchard Municipal Court.
6.04 — Garbage and Refuse
Collection violation - $500
Rubbish violation — Misdemeanor
6.12 — Trees and Shrubs
Misdemeanor — $300 and/or 90 days.
Nuisance — Abate — Council hearing.
6.20 — Plastic Bag Reduction
"Class 1 infraction" per 2.64.
1st Offense — 40, 2nd Offense w/in 1
7.04 — Animal Control
ear— 75, 3' or more —100.
7.06 — Dangerous Animals
40, 75, 100
Misdemeanor
7.10 — Exotic Animals
Misdemeanor — $250 and/or 90 days.
7.12 — Animals (Licenses)
40, 75, 100
7.30 — Violations (Title 7)
300 unless otherwise specified.
9.02 — General Provisions
Misdemeanor unless otherwise
s ecified.
9.22 — Alarm Systems
200
Misdemeanor
9.24.050 — (Offenses Against Public
250
Order) — Public Disturbance Noises
9.30 - Nuisances
Per POMC 2.64.
Misdemeanor
9.34 — Littering
Discarding potentially dangerous litter
Littering, posting notices, distributing
— Class 1($250) per RCW 7.80.
handbills — Misdemeanor
9.44 — Smoking Prohibited in Public
100
Places and Places of Employment
9.46 — City -owned Docks and Piers
100
9.57 — No Marijuana Use in Public
Class 3 ($50) per RCW 7.80.
9.60 — Park Rules
Class 3 ($50) per RCW 7.80.
10.12 — Parking, Standing, and Stopping
Class A - $20, Class B - $30,
10.12.430 — classes of infraction for
Class C - $100
traffic and parking infractions
10.13 —Parking of Commercial Vehicles
250
rl 0. 14 — Res. Parking Permit System
Class 2 ($125) per RCW 7.%.
Back to Agenda
POMC
Infraction or Civil Penalty
Criminal Penalty
Appeal Procedure/Notes
10.30 — Bicycle Safety and Helmets
Per RCW 7.80 (class?) up to 25
"exclusive of statutory assessments"
10.50 — Golf Cart Zone
$50
10.60 — Fire Lanes
$250
10.62 — Weight Limits
Misdemeanor
10.66 — Snow Routes
Misdemeanor
10.86 — Commute Trip Reduction
Class 1 ($250) per RCW 7.80
10.88 — Boating Provisions
$500
12.12 — Sidewalk Maintenance
Misdemeanor — $500 and/or 6 months.
12.16 — Undergrounding of Utilities
$1,000
12.24 — Street Use Permits
Nuisance abatement per RCW 7.48.
13.04 — Water and Sewers
$5,000 civil penalty
- appealable to City Council
15.28 — Fire Hydrant Installation
Misdemeanor — 250
15.30 — Illicit Discharge Detection and
"Class
IIt Offense — Misdemeanor.
Elimination
1" per POMC 2.64.
Subsequent offenses in 5 years — Gross
Misdemeanor
20.02 — Administration and Enforcement
Per POMC 2.64.
Misdemeanor.
Per POMC 20.02.
20.68 Accessory Dwelling Units
Per POMC 20.02.
Falsely attesting owner residency —
Gross Misdemeanor - $5,000.
20.82 — Administration and Enforcement
Per POMC 20.02.
Misdemeanor / Gross Misdemeanor.
Division of Land
20.172 — Hazardous Materials Facility
"Civil fine" - $500
Warning System
20.204 — Fire Prevention Code
$250
Misdemeanor.
20.208 — Building Numbers
Min. $25 — Max. $100
20.212 — Dangerous and Unfit Dwellings,
$250
Misdemeanor.
Buildings, and Structures
RCW
Class 1 — $250
Not including statutory assessments,
7.80 — Civil Infractions
Class 2 — $125
Class 3 — $50
which equal 105% & may not be
Class 4 — $25
reduced.
Page 15 of 26
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City of Port Orchard
-= Work Study Session Executive Summary
`yam■�� � IIIAI _'a aR_-
Issue Title: Updated procedures for response to Unauthorized
Trespassing/Camping on Public Property
Meeting Date: March 21, 2023
Time Required: 30 Minutes
Attendees: City Attorney Archer, Nick Bond (DCD/Code Enforcement), Chief Matt
Brown (Police), Debbie Lund (HR) and Tony Lang (PW)
Action Requested At This Meeting: As follow-up to previous Council Actions, Staff are
providing a report on updated procedures by which Staff respond to illegal dumping and
unauthorized camping on public property.
Issue: Pursuant to Port Orchard Municipal Code (POMC) 6.04.090, 9.60.130, 9.30.020, 10.12
and 12.24.030, the City regulates the use of public property, for property that is open and
closed to public. In 2022, Staff was tasked to develop uniform procedures, in conjunction
with existing applicable City and departmental procedures, to implement existing codified
regulations to balance the public health and safety concerns of neighborhood residents as
well as people experiencing homelessness. The procedures call for the removal
unauthorized encampments and associated garbage and debris from City of Port Orchard
property and, where applicable, temporarily storing personal property in a manner that is
consistent with local, state and federal laws.
The procedures were presented to the Council in September 2022, and implemented by
staff in the winter of 2022/23. This update reflects modifications recommended following
implementation, as well as modifications triggered by recent case law (note: memo
regarding case law provided by City Attorney, under privilege).
Background: The City of Port Orchard has received complaints from residents of Port
Orchard regarding the illegal dumping of garbage and debris in conjunction with active and
abandoned unauthorized encampments on public property including roadsides, open
streets and greenbelts. Illegal dumping and unauthorized camping impact the community by
affecting public health, safety, land values, quality of life, and the environment. The City
prohibits illegal dumping of junk, garbage and debris on public property as a threat to the
public safety and health. Unlawful dumping and associated camping pose harm to public
property through such activities as the use of open and uncontrolled flames and
urination/defication without adequate sanitation. Similarly, unauthorized camping on public
property creates environmental hazards and quality -of -life issues for adjacent neighborhood
residents, as well as for the encampment residents themselves. Critical areas, including
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wetlands, streams, fish and wildlife habitat and associated steep slopes, are often utilized
for encampment purposes because of their remoteness, vegetation that can provide
privacy, and access to running water. However, unlawful camping in these areas create
unsanitary and dangerous conditions for the individuals camping and the important
environmental resources present. For example, staff recently cleared an encampment
located on Bethel Avenue that was negatively impacting the adjacent fish -bearing stream.
The City partners with the Kitsap County HEART Team to ensure that prior to and during
enforcement of the City's regulations, the individuals are provided assistance to help them
obtain alternative shelter, to temporarily store belongings, and to address any relevant
underlying conditions that may have led to the individual violating the City's regulations. In
addition, the Mayor has negotiated with a local motel to obtain vouchers for emergency
housing located within the City as a back-up to those services provided through the HEART
program.
Relationship to Comprehensive Plan: Chapter 4 - Parks
Recommendation: Receive briefing and provide feedback on procedure.
Attachments: [Draft] Procedures for Response to Unauthorized
Trespassing/Camping on Public Property
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Purpose: The City of Port Orchard has received complaints from residents of Port Orchard regarding
the illegal dumping of junk, garbage or debris in conjunction with active and abandoned unauthorized
encampments on public property including roadsides, open streets and greenbelts. Illegal dumping and
unauthorized camping may impact the community by affecting public health, safety, land values, quality
of life, and the environment. The City prohibits illegal dumping of junk, garbage and debris on public
property as a threat to the public safety and health. Similarly, unauthorized camping on public property
creates environmental hazards and quality -of -life issues for adjacent neighborhood residents, as well
as for the encampment residents themselves.
The City desires to adopt uniform procedures, in conjunction with existing applicable City and
departmental procedures, to implement existing codified regulations, which balance the public health
and safety concerns of neighborhood residents as well as people experiencing homelessness. These
were prepared by staff to establish uniform procedures for removing unauthorized encampments and
associated junk, garbage or debris from City of Port Orchard property and, where applicable,
temporarily storing personal property in a manner that is consistent with local, state and federal laws.
Applicable Authorities: These procedures are intended to implement the following regulations
adopted by the Port Orchard City Council:
Port Orchard Municipal Code (POMC) 6.04.090 — Burning or dumping — Generally.
POMC 9.60.130 — Camping prohibited.
POMC 9.30.020 (18) — Nuisance, Obstructing pedestrian or vehicle access
POMC 9.30.020 (14) — Nuisance, Junk vehicles
POMC Chapter 10.12 — Parking, Standing and Stopping
POMC 12.24.030 (1) — Street use permit, nuisance
Definitions: These definitions, consistent with the above authorities, apply to these procedures:
"Abandoned or Unauthorized vehicle" means a vehicle that is subject to impoundment after being left
unattended on public property, as set out in POMC 10.12.440.
"Encampment" means two or more tent(s), structure(s), or assembly of camping equipment or personal
property located in an identifiable area within the City of Port Orchard which appears to a reasonable
person as being used for camping. Active encampments do not include sites a reasonable person
would conclude are no longer in use for camping because remaining materials are garbage, debris, or
waste.
"Emergency Housing" means temporary indoor accommodations for individuals or families who are
homeless or at imminent risk of becoming homeless, including but not limited to an emergency shelter,
rental, hotel or motel, located within the City of Port Orchard.
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"Hazard" means any discarded, useless, unwanted, or abandoned substances, including but not limited
to chemicals, pesticides, or any residues or containers of such substances which are disposed of in
such quantity or concentration as to pose a present or potential hazard to human health, wildlife, or the
environment.
"Immediate hazard' means the dumping of junk, garbage or debris that creates a risk of serious injury
or death to others, including but not limited to items left on roadways, shoulders and other areas
exposed to moving vehicles, and landslide -prone areas.
"Obstruction" means personal property, garbage, debris or other objects that are: in a City park or on a
public sidewalk; interfere with the pedestrian or transportation purposes of public rights -of -way; or
interfere with areas that are necessary for or essential to the intended use of a public property or facility.
"Junk" and "garbage" means all putrescible and nonputrescible solid and semisolid wastes including,
but not limited to, garbage, rubbish, ashes, industrial wastes, swill, sewage sludge, demolition and
construction wastes, abandoned vehicles or parts thereof, and recyclable materials.
"Personal property' means an item that: is reasonably recognizable as belonging to a person; has
apparent utility in its present condition and circumstances; and is not hazardous. Examples of personal
property include but are not limited to identification, personal papers and documents, tents, bicycles,
radios and other electronic equipment, eyeglasses, prescription medications, photographs, jewelry,
crutches, and wheelchairs. Personal property does not include building materials such as wood
products, metal, pallets, or rigid plastic. The relevant staff member will determine whether an item is
personal property, and in cases when the status of an item cannot reasonably be determined in the
staff member's judgment based on the totality of the circumstances, the staff member will treat the item
as personal property under these procedures.
"Public Health and Human Services Partners" means the Kitsap County HEART Program Coordinator,
Kitsap Community Resources, Housing Kitsap, and similar agencies that operate within the City to
provide health and human services for the unhoused residents.
"Recreational vehicle" means a vehicular -type unit primarily designed for recreational camping or travel
use that has its own motive power or is mounted on or towed by another vehicle. The units include
travel trailers, fifth -wheel trailers, folding camping trailers, truck campers, and motor homes.
"Street" means any highway, lane, road, street, right-of-way, boulevard, alley, and every way or place
in the city that is publicly owned or maintained for public vehicular travel.
"Vehicle" means the same as such is defined in RCW 46.04.670.
Exclusions from Procedures: These procedures do not apply to the following situations:
1. These procedures do not apply to the illegal dumping of junk, garbage or debris or vehicles on
private property owned by the reporting party, or property owned by an institutional or public
agency other than the City.
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If a reporting party notifies an employee that they have been the victim of illegal dumping on
private property owned by the reporting party, the employee should:
Advise the reporting party to contact 911 if they believe the situation creates an immediate
danger to life, health, or the environment.
If the reporting party states the condition does not create an immediate danger, the employee
should refer the reporting party to a list of resources available on the City's website and to
the Kitsap Public Health District (the district maintains vouchers for the disposal of illegally
dumped solid waste).
2. These procedures do not apply to illegal dumping of junk, garbage or debris or vehicles or illegal
camping reported by a resident on private property that the reporting party does not own/lease,
the employee should direct the reporting party to contact the City's Code Enforcement Officer.
This matter is handled pursuant to Community Development Departmental procedures as an
open enforcement case, on a resources -available basis. A site inspection, with the property
owner's permission, may occur in conjunction with representatives of the Police Department
and/or Public Works Department, as appropriate.
3. This policy does not apply to the illegal dumping of junk, garbage or debris on public property
that is not associated with an active encampment, which are collected and disposed of by Public
Works Department in accordance with Public Works Department Departmental procedures.
Procedures:
1. Abandoned Personal Property: Consistent with the above referenced authorities, staff will utilize
the following procedures (in conjunction with applicable City and departmental procedures) to
respond to the dumping of personal property in the right of way or on City -owned property.
1.1. Upon receipt of a report of illegal dumping of personal property on City -owned property or street,
the reporting party should be directed to the Public Works Department for investigation of the
report, in conjunction with the Police Department.'
1.1.1. If there are no signs of an active encampment but personal property is present, Public
Works Department may dispose of all junk, garbage and waste.
1.1.1.1. Public Works Department may separately collect personal property and store for
seventy-two (72) hours. During the seventy-two (72) hours, Public Works Department
will contact the Police Department. If an owner for the personal property can be
located, the City will attempt to connect the owner to the personal property. If no owner
can be located or the owner does not collect the items within seventy-two (72) hours
from the date the items were collected, Public Works Department may dispose of the
personal property, in accordance with department policy.
1 Public Works and Police may establish a routine (quarterly) meeting to discuss potential encampment sites and any hazards posed
by the potential encampment site to city employees. This conference should occur prior to the site inspection, if feasible.
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1.1.2. If there are signs of an active encampment, Public Works Department should refer the
report to the Code Enforcement Officer. See procedures for Camping/Encampment.
2. Unlawfully Parked Vehicles/Recreational Vehicles: Consistent with the above referenced
authorities, Staff will utilize the following procedure (in conjunction with applicable City and
departmental procedures) for responding to the unlawful dumping of vehicles, including
Recreational Vehicles (RVs) or campers, in the right of way or on City -owned property:
2.1.Opened Right of Way. Upon receipt of a report of an abandoned or inoperable vehicle, including
a Recreational Vehicle (RV) or camper, and associated dumping of junk, garbage or debris on
an opened street, the report should be directed to the parking enforcement officer who will
evaluate the situation for violations of the City's parking code. Parking Enforcement may issue
citations in accordance with the POMC and Department procedures.
2.1.1. If the abandoned or inoperable vehicle is abandoned and there are no signs of habitation,
after issuance of citations, the parking enforcement officer should: (1) contact Public
Works Department for collection and disposal of all junk, garbage or debris surrounding
the vehicle; and (2) contact the Police Department for impound of the vehicle, pursuant
to Police Department procedures.
2.1.1.1. If it is unclear whether the vehicle is being used for habitation, the parking
enforcement officer in conjunction with Public Health and Human Services Partners
should supply information regarding available public services to the occupants of the
vehicle and should contact the Police Department for follow-up.
2.1.2. If the abandoned or inoperable vehicle shows signs of habitation, the parking enforcement
officer should supply information regarding available public services to the occupants of
the vehicle in conjunction with issued citations. After the issuance of citations, the parking
enforcement officer should contact the Police Department for impound of the vehicle,
pursuant to Police Department procedures.
2.1.2.1. The Police Department should attempt to contact the owner(s) and/or occupants of
the vehicle and provide information regarding available public services. If no contact
occurs after multiple attempts, the Police Department may have the vehicle
impounded, pursuant to Police Department procedures. Information identifying
available public services or emergency housing shall be provided to the owner(s)
and/or occupants and/or affixed to the vehicle at least twenty-four (24) hours prior to
the scheduled impound.
2.1.2.2. Staff should contact Public Works Department for collection and disposal of all junk,
garbage or debris surrounding the vehicle at the time of impound. If the volume of
junk, garbage or debris exceeds the capacity of Public Works Department, staff
should contact the City's on -call waste disposal contractor. If the contents include
hazardous materials, staff should contact Kitsap Public Health and/or South Kitsap
Fire and Rescue.
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2.2. City -owned Property Other than Right of Way. Upon receipt of a report of an abandoned vehicle,
including a Recreational Vehicle (RV) or camper, and associated dumping of junk, garbage or
debris on City -owned property other than an opened street, the report should be directed to the
Code Enforcement Officer who will evaluate the situation for violations of the City's municipal
code.
2.2.1. If the vehicle is abandoned and there are no signs of habitation, after issuance of citations,
the Code Enforcement Officer should: (1) contact Public Works Department for collection
and disposal of all junk, garbage or debris surrounding the vehicle; and (2) contact the
Police Department for impound of the vehicle, pursuant to Police Department procedures.
2.2.1.1. If it is unclear whether the vehicle is being used for habitation, the Code
Enforcement Officer should supply information regarding available public services to
the occupants of the vehicle and should contact the Police Department for follow-up.
2.2.1.2. The Police Department should attempt to contact the owner(s) and/or occupants of
the vehicle and provide information regarding available public services. The Police
Department may then have the vehicle impounded, pursuant to Police Department
procedures.
2.2.1.3. Information identifying available public services shall be provided to the owner(s)
and/or occupants and/or affixed to the vehicle at least twenty-four (24) hours prior to
the scheduled impound, including referral to available shelter.
2.2.1.4. Staff should contact Public Works Department for collection and disposal of all junk,
garbage or debris surrounding the vehicle at the time of impound. If the volume of
junk, garbage or debris exceeds the capacity of Public Works Department, staff
should contact the City's on -call waste disposal contractor. If the contents include
hazardous materials, staff should contact Kitsap Public Health and/or South Kitsap
Fire and Rescue.
3. Unlawful Camping/Encampments: Consistent with the above referenced authorities, Staff will
utilize the following procedure (in conjunction with applicable City and departmental procedures) for
responding to a report of unlawful camping on City -owned property.
Upon receipt of a report of unlawful camping and associated dumping of junk, garbage or debris on
City -owned property, the report should be directed to the Public Works Department. In conjunction
with the Police Department,2 Public Works Departmentwill conduct an initial evaluation of the report.
See attached Initial Site Evaluation Form.
3.1. Emergency Clean-up: If a vacant active encampment presents an emergency and imminent
hazard to public health and safety (as determined in consultation with the City Attorney), the
Public Works Department should post a Notice of Emergency Order to Vacate and remove
items present. Junk, garbage, and waste may be disposed of in accordance with department
z Public Works and Police may establish a routine (quarterly) meeting to discuss potential encampment sites and any hazards posed
by the potential encampment site to city employees. This conference should occur prior to the site inspection, if feasible.
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policies. Personal property should be stored for no less than sixty (60) days, and staff should
attempt to contact the personal property's owners during that time.
3.2. Abandoned Encampment: If the site is vacant and does not contain: (1) evidence of an active
encampment; or (2) personal property, Public Works Department may immediately dispose of
the dumped materials pursuant to department procedures. If the volume of junk, garbage or
debris exceeds the capacity of Public Works Department, staff should contact the City's on -call
waste disposal contractor. If the contents include hazardous materials, staff should contact
Kitsap Public Health and/or South Kitsap Fire and Rescue.
3.2.1. If the site is vacant and there are no signs of an active encampment, but personal property
is present, Public Works Department should refer to procedure for Abandoned Personal
Property.
3.3.Occupied Encampment: An encampment is considered "occupied" if staff observes evidence of
an active encampment, including people, recently used items, food, etc., or there is collateral
evidence confirming the encampment is occupied (such as information from Public Health and
Human Services Partners. An encampment may be considered "occupied" even if there are no
people present at the time of staff's inspection of the encampment.
3.3.1. In conjunction with Public Works Department, Police Department, clean-up vendors (if
any) and Public Health and Human Services Partners, the Code Enforcement Officer
should schedule an encampment clean-up date. If, in the opinion of the Public Works
Director or designee, the size and scope of the encampment exceed the capacity of the
Public Works Department, the City's on -call clean-up vendor should be contacted.
3.3.1.1. Prior to the scheduled clean-up, the Code Enforcement Officer should facilitate an
initial evaluation meeting with all participating departments and partners to
determine if the occupants of the encampment are known, so as to better facilitate
access to services and an expeditious clean-up.
3.3.1.2. The Code Enforcement Officer should reach out to Public Health and Human
Services Partners to coordinate outreach to encampment occupants to provide
available services, with the goal that outreach occur early in the process and with
some frequency.
3.3.2. Noticing: The Code Enforcement Officer is tasked with preparing all notices required
under this policy. Notices should be posted in publicly visible and noticeable location at
the encampment and may also be affixed to all tents/structures present on the property.
If needed, posting should be coordinated with the Public Works Department and Police
Department. Notices should include information directing those present to available
services.
3.3.2.1. Once scheduled, the Code Enforcement Officer should prepare and post an initial
notice of clean-up. The Notice shall provide at least fourteen (14) days advance
notice of the clean-up.
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3.3.2.2. The Code Enforcement Officer should prepare and post a second notice of clean-
up. The second notice of scheduled clean-up shall be posted at least seven (7) days
prior to the clean-up and should meet the criteria of the first notice.
3.3.2.3. The Code Enforcement Officer should prepare and post a twenty-four (24) hour
notice immediately prior to the clean-up. During that posting, the Code Enforcement
Officer should provide information regarding Emergency Housing to those present.
3.3.3. Clean-up Event: The Code Enforcement Officer, Public Works Department, and Police
Department, in conjunction with Public Health And Human Services Partners and any on -
call remediation vendors shall perform the camp/encampment clean-up on the date
scheduled. The clean-up should include the following:
3.3.3.1. If available, Public Health And Human Services Partners should be offered the
opportunity to perform outreach to the occupants of the encampment immediately
prior to the clean-up event (same day as clean-up).
3.3.3.2. All remaining occupants should be notified by uniformed members of the Police
Department of the need to vacate. Officers should offer Emergency Housing and
transport to those present.
3.3.3.3. Once the site is vacant of all occupants, junk, garbage and waste may be disposed
of. Personal property should be collected by the Public Works Department and/or
on -call vendors. and stored for no less than sixty (60) days, and staff should attempt
to contact the personal property's owners during that time.
3.3.3.4. Following the clean-up event, the Police Department and Public Works Department
may utilize methods to limit the re-establishment of camping/the encampment,
including fencing, trimming of vegetation, etc.
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INITIAL SITE INSPECTION REPORT
FOR UNLAWFUL CAMPING AND ASSOCIATED DUMPING
Date of Report:
Report Received By:
Report Received From:
Location of Reported Dumping/Unauthorized Encampment:
Site Inspection Conducted On:
Location of Site Inspection in relation to location of dumping/unauthorized encampment
Observed Conditions (check all that apply):
❑ Signs of habitation, including one or more tent, structure, or assembly of camping equipment.
o If yes, is the tent/structure secured? Yes/No
❑ Personal Property
❑ Garbage, rubbish, or ashes,
❑ Industrial wastes, swill, sewage sludge,
❑ Demolition and construction wastes
❑ Abandoned vehicles or parts thereof (if yes, copy of report to Parking Enforcement)
❑ Human waste or hazardous materials/fluids
Are there people present? Yes/No
• If yes, how many people were observed:
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NOTICE TO VACATE
UNAUTHORIZED ENCAMPMENT
All occupants are hereby ordered to vacate the unauthorized encampment at address/location:
(the "Property").
Pursuant to Port Orchard Municipal Code (POMC) 9.30.060 and POMC 6.04.090, you are ordered to
vacate the above publicly -owned land, as the POMC prohibits:
❑ Storage of personal property in a park, right of way or any publicly owned parking lot or publicly
owned area
❑ Vehicle habitation for a period of more than 24 hours in a park, right of way or any publicly owned
parking lot or publicly owned area
❑ POMC 6.04.090 Burning or dumping — Generally.
❑ POMC 9.60.130 Camping prohibited.
❑ POMC 9.30.020 (18) — Nuisance, Obstructing pedestrian or vehicle access
❑ POMC 9.30.020 (14) — Nuisance, Junk vehicles
❑ POMC 12.24.030 (1) — Street use permit, nuisance
You are hereby provided notice that any continued violation(s) may result in the issuance of civil
infraction(s), and/or notice of criminal trespass, as well as the disposal of all junk, garbage and debris
present at the Property, removal of all personal property at the Property, and impounding of your vehicle
(if any).
You are ordered to comply as follows:
❑ You have _ hours to vacate and remove all property, including your personal property and/or
vehicle
❑ You must immediately vacate due to the following imminent safety concerns:
Shelter services are available by contacting:
I acknowledge and represent that I have read the foregoing.
Signed this day of , 2022 at , Washington.
Signature:
Printed Name:
Date/time of posting:
Location of Notice posted:
Posting Official:
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