HomeMy WebLinkAboutTahuya River Valley Water District MC Contract#20-001
IN THE MATTER OF THE APPLICATION OF Tahuya River Valley Water District
FOR A FRANCHISE PERMIT TO CONSTRUCT, OPERATE, AND MAINTAIN Water
System&Appurtenances UTILITY FACILITIES,
OVER,ALONG AND UNDER COUNTY ROADS AND HIGHWAYS LOCATED IN MASON
COUNTY, WASHINGTON
Application of(Name of Operator) Tahuya River Valley Water District,
doing business in Washington as Water Distribution Utility,
with its principal offices located at PO BOX 849 Belfair, WA 98528,
by and through (person authorized to act for and on behalf of applicant) Anthony T. Butler, Bookkeeper ,
for a franchise to construct,operate and maintain(description of type) Water utility facilities
in,over,along and under county roads and highways in Mason County,Washington,as set forth in
attached Exhibit `B" (Franchise Area), having come on regularly for hearing before the County
Commissioners of Mason County, Washington, on the 1 ' day of
, 20 Zo , at the hour of 9:15 a,n„,) , under the provisions of RCW 36.55,RCW 80.32.010
and RCW 80.36.040,and it appearing to the Board that notice of said hearing has been duly given as
required by law, and that it is in the public interest to allow the franchise herein granted;
NOW THEREFORE, IT IS ORDERED that a non-exclusive franchise be,and the same is hereby
given and granted to Operator,and its successors and assigns,hereinafter referred to as the
Franchisee, for a period of 10 years with automatic renewal at the end of each term of 10 years
unless either party gives the other written notice of termination at least 30 days prior to the end of
the relevant term. (no more than ten years each term and can only be renewed 3 times) from and
after the date of the entry of this order for the purposes, at the location(s), and upon the express
terms and conditions as described herein.
I. DEFINITIONS
For the purposes of this franchise,terms,phrases,words,and their derivations not defined herein that
are defined in Title 12 of the Mason County Code or the Manual on Accommodating Utilities in the
Mason County Right-of-Way published by the County Engineer(the"Manual"),shall have the same
meaning or be interpreted as provided in Title 12 of the Mason County Code or the Manual. Words
not defined here, in Title 12 of the Mason County Code or the Manual shall have their ordinary
meaning. A reference to Title 12 of the Mason County Code or the Manual refers to the same as may
be amended,revised,updated,re-enacted or re-codified from time to time.
II. GRANT
The County of Mason hereby grants to the Franchisee anon-exclusive franchise which, once it
becomes effective shall authorize the Franchisee to enter upon the road rights-of-way located
within the Franchise Area identified in attached Exhibit`B", for the purpose of installing,
1
constructing,maintaining, repairing,replacing, adjusting,relocating and operating the utility
facilities, which grant shall be limited to the following described purpose(s): Water System&
Appurtenances.
Such grant is subject to and must be exercised in strict accordance with and subject to this franchise,
Title 12 of the Mason County Code, the Manual and all applicable laws, rules, regulations and
ordinances. Franchisee's exercise of any rights granted pursuant to the franchise is subject to the
exercise of the County's police powers,and other regulatory powers as it may have or obtain in the
future. No rights shall pass to the franchisee by implication. This franchise does not include
permission to enter into or upon the road rights-of-way for any purposes others than the purposes
expressly described herein. Permittee has a duty to notify the County of any change in use or
condition of the utility facilities that may affect the status of the utility facilities or the impact of the
utility facilities upon the road rights-of-way.
III. UTILITY PERMIT REQUIRED
Franchisee shall not commence or perform work(hereafter"Work")to install,construct,maintain
repair, replace adjust, connect, disconnect, rebuild, or relocate its utility facilities within the road
rights-of-way,without first applying for,paying all associated fees,and obtaining a utility permit as
required pursuant to Title 12 of the Mason County Code. In any utility permit so issued,the County
may impose,as a condition of the granting the utility permit,such conditions and regulations as may
be necessary for the protection,preservation and management of the road rights-of-way,including,
by way of example and not limitation, for the purpose of protecting any structures in the road
rights-of-way, maintaining proper distance from other utilities, ensuring the proper restoration of
such road rights-of-way and structures,and for the protection of the County and the public and the
continuity of pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
Franchisee shall first file with the County Engineer its application for a utility permit to do such
Work together with plans and specifications in triplicate showing at a minimum:
A.The position,depth and location of all such utility facilities sought to be constructed,laid,
installed or erected at that time,showing their relative position to existing county roads,rights-of-way
or other county property upon plans drawn to scale,hereinafter collectively referred to as the"map of
definite location;
B. The class and type of material and equipment to be used, manner of excavation,
construction,installation,backfill,erection of temporary structures,erection of permanent structures,
traffic control,traffic turnouts and road obstructions;
C. The manner in which the utility facility is to be installed;
D. Measures to be taken to preserve safe and free flow of traffic;
2
E. Structural integrity of the roadway,bridge, or other structure;
F. Specifications for the restoration of the county road,right-of-way or other county property
in the event that the road right of way will be disturbed by the Work; and
G. Provision for ease of future road maintenance and appearance of the roadway.
Provision shall be made for known or planned expansion of the utility facilities,particularly those
located underground or attached to bridges or other structures within the road right-of-way.
The location, alignment and depth of the utility facilities shall conform with said map of definite
location,except in instances in which deviation may be allowed thereafter in writing by the County
Engineer pursuant to application by Franchisee.
All such Work shall be subject to the approval of and shall pass the inspection of the County
Engineer.The Franchisee shall pay all costs of and expenses incurred in the examination,inspection
and approval of such work on account of granting the said utility permits.
IV. RESTORATION OF ROAD RIGHT OF WAY
In any Work which disturbs or causes damage to the road rights-of-way subject to this franchise,
public or private property, the Franchisee shall at its own expense and with all convenient speed,
complete the work to repair and restore the county road right-of-way, or the public or private
property so disturbed or damaged, and leave the same in as good or better condition as before the
Work was commenced,to the reasonable satisfaction of the County Engineer. The Franchisee shall
pay all costs of and expenses incurred in the examination, inspection and approval of such
restoration or repair.
The County Commissioners and/or County Engineer may at any time do,order or have done any and
all work that they consider necessary to restore to a safe condition such County road right-of-way or
other County property left by the Franchisee or its agents in a condition dangerous to life or property,
and the Franchisee,upon demand, shall pay to the County all costs of such work.
V. FRANCHISEE WORK IN RIGHT OF WAY
Franchisee expressly agrees and understands that,with regard to Work within the road rights-of-way:
A. All of Franchisee's utility facilities and Work within the road rights-of-way or other
County property shall be in compliance with the provisions of Title 12 MCC, the Manual, the
administrative regulations adopted by the County Engineer,other County established requirements
for placement of utility facilities in road rights-of-way, including the specific location of utility
facilities in the road rights-of-way, and all applicable laws,rules,regulations and ordinances;
B. In preparing plans and specifications for Work of utility facilities in the road rights-of-
3
way the Franchisee shall use the Manual. Prior to commencement of work in the road rights-of-way,
Franchisee shall submit such plans and specifications to the Mason County Engineer for review and
approval together with adequate exhibits depicting existing or proposed location of the utility facility
in relation to the road, including right-of-way or easement lines; relationship to currently planned
road revisions,if applicable;and all locations and situations for which deviations in depth of cover
(including the proposed method of protection)or other locational standards that are anticipated;
C. All Work to utility facilities located within the road rights-of-way or other county
property subject to this franchise shall be done in such a manner as not to interfere, other than in
ways approved by the County,with the construction, operation and maintenance of other utilities,
public or private, drains, drainage ditches and structures, irrigation ditches and structures, located
therein,nor with the grading or improvements of such County roads,rights-of-way or other County
property;
D. The owners and operators of all utility facilities (public or private) installed in the
Franchise Area or other county property prior in time to the utility facilities of the Franchisee,shall
have preference as to the alignment and location of such utilities so installed with respect to the
Franchisee. Such preference shall continue in the event of the necessity of relocating or changing the
grade of any such county road or right-of-way;
E. Franchisee shall perform the Work and operate its utility facilities in a manner that
minimizes interference with the use of the road rights-of-way by others,including others that may be
installing utility facilities; and
F. The County may require that Franchisee's utility facilities be installed at a particular time,
at a specific place,or in a particular manner as a condition of access to a particular road right-of-way;
may deny access if a Franchisee is not willing to comply with the County's requirements; and may
remove, or require removal of, any utility facility that is not installed in compliance with the
requirements established by the County,or which is installed without prior County approval of the
time, place, or manner of installation and charge the Franchisee for all the costs associated with
removal; and may require Franchisee to cooperate with others to minimize adverse impacts on the
road rights-of-way through joint trenching and other arrangements.
G. The County may inspect the utility facilities at any time reasonable under the
circumstances to ensure compliance with this franchise and applicable law,including to ensure that
the utility facilities are constructed and maintained in a safe condition. If an unsafe condition is
found to exist,the County,in addition to taking any other action permitted under applicable law,may
order the Franchisee, in writing, to make the necessary repairs and alterations specified therein
forthwith to correct the unsafe condition on a time-table established by the County which is
reasonable in light of the unsafe condition. The County has the right to correct,inspect,administer,
and repair the unsafe condition if the Franchisee fails to do so, and to charge the Franchisee
therefore. The right of the County to conduct such inspections and order or make repairs shall not be
construed to create an obligation therefore,and such obligation to construct and maintain its utility
4
facilities in a safe condition shall at all times remain the sole obligation of the Franchisee.
H. When required by the County,Franchisee shall make information available to the public
regarding any work involving the ongoing installation,construction,adjustment,relocation,repair or
maintenance of its utility facilities sufficient to show(1)the nature of the work being performed;
(2)where it is being performed; (3) its estimated completion date; and(4)progress to completion.
I. FRANCHISEE IS PLACED ON NOTICE THAT FIBER OPTIC,COMMUNICATIONS,
POWER, CONTROL SYSTEMS, OTHER TYPES OF CABLES, AND PIPELINES MAY BE
BURIED ON THE RIGHT OF WAY. Before beginning any underground work, Franchisee will
contact the appropriate personnel to have such facilities located and make arrangements as to
protective measures that must be adhered to prior to the commencement of any work within the Road
rights-of-way. In addition to the liability terms elsewhere in this Agreement, Franchisee shall
indemnify and hold the County and its elected and appointed officers, employees and agents
harmless against and from all cost,liability,and expense whatsoever(including,without limitation,
attorney's fees and court costs and expenses)arising out of or in any way contributed to by any act or
omission of Franchisee, its contractor,agents and/or employees,that cause or in any way or degree
contribute to (1)any damage to or destruction of any such facilities by Franchisee, and/or its
contractor, agents and/or employees, on the County's property, (2)any injury to or death of any
person employed by or on behalf of any entity,and/or its contractor,agents and/or employees,on the
road rights-of-way,and/or(3) any claim or cause of action for alleged loss of profits or revenue,or
loss of service, by a customer or user of services or products of such company(ies) (collectively
"Liabilities" for purposes of this Section V.I). The only Liabilities with respect to which
Franchisee's obligation to indemnify the County and its elected and appointed officers,employees
and agents does not apply are Liabilities to the extent arising out of,caused by or resulting from the
negligence of the County, and its elected and appointed officers, employees and agents and
Liabilities that by law the County and its elected and appointed officers,employees and agents for
which the County cannot be indemnified.
J. Franchisee shall continuously be a member of the State of Washington one number locator
service under RCW 19.122, or an approved equivalent, and shall comply with all such applicable
rules and regulations.
K. Except in the event of emergency as described below,Franchisee and its Agents may not
enter upon the Franchise Area to perform work for which a utility permit is not required,unless and
except upon two-business days notice to the County Engineer.
L. In the event of an emergency involving the threat of imminent harm to persons or
property,and for purposes of taking immediate corrective action,Franchisee and its agents may enter
the Franchise Area without advance notice to the County as long as such entry is for the sole purpose
of addressing the emergency; provided however, that if any entry for such purposes would require
issuance of a utility permit,Franchisee shall give the County verbal or telephonic notice of the places
where and the manner in which entry is required prior to such entry,promptly followed by written
notice. In all cases,notice to the County shall be given as far in advance as practical prior to entry or
as soon as practicable after entry upon the road right-of-Way.
5
M. Franchisee shall promptly reimburse the County for their reasonable and direct costs
incurred in responding to an emergency that is caused, created by or attributable to the presence,
construction,maintenance,repair,or operation of the Franchisees utility facilities in the road rights-
of-way.
N. If,during installation,construction,relocation,realignment,adjustment,maintenance,or
repair of the Franchisee's utility facilities in the road rights-of-way,Franchisee or its agents discover
scientific or historic artifacts,Franchisee shall immediately notify the County of said discovery and
shall protect such artifacts in a manner as specified by the County. Any such artifact shall be the
property of the County if the County wishes to own it.
VI. PROTECTION OF PUBLIC
All work done under this franchise shall be done in a thorough and workman-like manner. In the
performance of Work within or near the road rights-of-way, including without limitation, the
opening of trenches and the tunneling under county roads,rights-of way or other county property,the
Franchisee shall leave such trenches, ditches and tunnels in such a way as to interfere as little as
possible with public travel and shall take all due and necessary precautions to guard the same,so that
damage or injury shall not occur or arise by reason of such Work; and where any of such trenches,
ditches and tunnels are left open at night,the Franchisee shall place warning lights,barricades and
other appropriate protective devices at such a position as to give adequate warning of such Work.
The Franchisee shall be liable for any injury to person or persons or damage to property sustained
arising out of its carelessness or neglect,or through any failure or neglect to properly guard or give
warning of any trenches, ditches or tunnels dug or maintained by the Franchisee.
VII. POLICE POWERS
The County of Mason,in granting this franchise,does not waive any rights which it now has or may
hereafter acquire with respect to county roads, rights-of-way or other county property and this
franchise shall not be construed to deprive the county of any powers, rights or privileges which it
now has or may hereafter acquire to regulate the use of and to control the county roads,rights-of-way
and other county property covered by this franchise. The County retains the right to administer and
regulate activities of the Franchisee up to the fullest extent of the law. The failure to reserve a
particular right to regulate,or reference a particular regulation, shall not be interpreted by negative
implication or otherwise to prevent the application of a regulation to the Franchisee.
VIII. RELOCATION
Franchisee shall, in the course of any Work,comply with the following requirements:
A. The Franchisee shall, by a time specified by the County, protect, support, temporarily
disconnect,relocate,or remove any of its utility facilities when required by the County by reason of
traffic conditions;public safety;road right-of-way construction;road right-of-way repair(including
6
resurfacing or widening);change of road right-of-way grade;construction,installation,or repair of
County-owned sewers,drains,water pipes,power lines,signal lines,tracks,communications system,
other public work, public facility, or improvement of any government-owned utility; road
right-of-way vacation;or for any other purpose where the County work involved would be aided by
the removal or relocation of the utility facilities. Collectively,such matters are referred to below as
the "public work."
Franchisee acknowledges and understands that any delay by Franchisee in performing the herein
described work may delay, hinder, or interfere with the work performed by the County and its
contractors and subcontractors done in furtherance of such Public Work and result in damage to the
County,including but not limited to,delay claims. Franchisee shall cooperate with the County and
its contractors and subcontractors to coordinate such Franchisee work to accommodate the Public
Work project and project schedules to avoid delay, hindrance of, or interference with the Public
Work. The County of Mason shall make available to the Franchisee a copy of the Six Year
Transportation Program and the County's annual construction program after adoption each year. It is
anticipated these programs will aid the utility in planning construction programs.
B. Franchisee has a duty to protect its utility facilities from work performed by the County
within the road rights-of-way. The rights granted to the Franchisee herein do not preclude the
County of Mason, its employees, contractors, subcontractors, and agents from blasting, grading,
excavating, or doing other necessary road work contiguous to Franchisee's utility facilities;
providing that, the Franchisee shall be given a minimum of forty-eight (48) hours notice of said
blasting or other work in order that the Franchisee may protect its utility facilities.
C. In the event of an emergency,or where the utility facility creates or is contributing to an
imminent danger to health, safety, or property, the County may protect, support, temporarily
disconnect,remove,or relocate any or all parts of the utility facility without prior notice,and charge
the Franchisee for costs incurred.
D. If any Person that is authorized to place facilities in the road right of way requests the
Franchisee to protect, support,temporarily disconnect,remove,or relocate the Franchisee's utility
facilities to accommodate the construction,operation,or repair of the facilities of such other person,
the Franchisee shall,after 30 days'advance written notice,take action to effect the necessary changes
requested;provided that,if such project is related to or competes with Franchisee's service,or if the
effect of such changes would be to permanently deprive Franchisee of the beneficial enjoyment of
this franchise for its intended purposes through interference with the operation of Franchisee's utility
facilities or otherwise, Franchisee shall not be required to relocate its utility facilities. Unless the
matter is governed by a valid contract or a state or federal law or regulation, or unless the
Franchisee's utility facilities were not properly installed, the reasonable cost of the same shall be
borne by the Person requesting the protection, support, temporary disconnection, removal, or
relocation at no charge to the County, even if the County makes the request for such action.
7
E. The Franchisee shall, on the request of any person holding a valid permit issued by a
governmental authority, temporarily raise or lower its wires to permit the moving of buildings or
other objects. The expense of such temporary removal or raising or lowering of wires shall be paid
by the person requesting the same.
The County of Mason will accept liability for direct and actual damages to said Franchisee that are
the result of the negligence of Mason County, its trustees, officers, employees, contractors,
subcontractors or agents while performing County improvement or Public Works projects
enumerated in the original franchise agreement under Section VIII,paragraph B. Direct and actual
damages are specifically limited to physical damage to properly installed and located infrastructure
of the Franchisee and the cost to repair such physical damage. Mason County retains the right to
assert all applicable defenses in the event of a dispute including contributory negligence on the part
of the Franchisee. Mason County shall in no way be liable for incidental damages claimed to arise
from such actions.
All Work to be performed by the Franchisee under this section shall pass the inspection of the
County Engineer. The Franchisee shall pay all costs of and expenses incurred in the examination,
inspection and approval of such work.
IX. PRESERVATION OF MONUMENTS/MARKERS
Before any work is performed under this franchise which may affect any existing monuments or
markers of any nature relating to subdivisions,plats,roads and all other surveys,the Franchisee shall
reference all such monuments and markers. The reference points shall be so located that they will
not be disturbed during the Franchisee's operations under this franchise. The method of referencing
these monuments or other points to be referenced shall be approved by the County Engineer. The
replacement of all such monuments or markers disturbed during construction shall be made as
expeditiously as conditions permit,and as directed by the County Engineer. The cost of monuments
or other markers lost, destroyed, or disturbed, and the expense of replacement by approved
monuments shall be borne by the Franchisee.
A complete set of reference notes for monument and other ties shall be filed with the office of the
Mason County Engineer.
X. VACATION OF ROAD RIGHT-OF-WAY
If at any time the County shall vacate any County road,right-of-way or other County property which
is subject to rights granted by this franchise and said vacation shall be for the purpose of acquiring
the fee or other property interest in said road, right-of-way or other county property for the use of
Mason County, in either its proprietary or governmental capacity,then the Board of Mason County
Commissioners may, at its option, and by giving thirty(30) days written notice to the Franchisee,
terminate this franchise with reference to such county road,right-of-way or other county property so
vacated, and the County of Mason shall not be liable for any damages or loss to the Franchisee by
reason of such termination. It has been the practice of Mason County to reserve easements for
8
utilities at the time of road vacation,and will continue to be the practice until such time the Board of
Mason County Commissioners direct a change of practice.
XI. FINANCIAL SECURITY
A. Insurance Except as otherwise provided herein,Franchisee shall maintain for itself and
the County,throughout the entire period any part of Franchisee's utility facilities are located in the
Franchise Area, adequate insurance to protect the Parties and their elected and appointed officers,
agents,employees against all of County's and Franchisee's liability arising out of Franchisee's use
and occupancy of the Franchise Area or any part thereof. This obligation shall require the Franchisee
to maintain insurance at least in the following amounts:
1. COMMERCIAL GENERAL LIABILITY insurance to cover liability, bodily
injury, and property damage. The Commercial General Liability insurance shall be written on an
occurrence basis, with an aggregate limit location endorsement for the Franchise Area, and shall
provide coverage for any and all costs, including defense costs, and losses and damages resulting
from personal injury, bodily injury and death, property damage, products liability and completed
operations. Such insurance shall include blanket contractual coverage, including coverage for the
Franchise as now or hereafter amended and specific coverage for the indemnity provisions set forth
herein. Coverage must be written with the following limits of liability:
Bodily and Personal Injury&Property Damage
$ 1,000,000 per Occurrence
$ 2,000,000 aggregate
2 WORKERS' COMPENSATION insurance shall be maintained to comply with
statutory limits for all employees,and in the case any work is sublet,the Franchisee shall require its
contractors and subcontractors similarly to provide workers' compensation insurance for all the
employees. The Franchisee shall also maintain, during the life of this policy, employer's liability
insurance;provided that this obligation shall not apply to any time period during which Franchisee
has no employees. The following minimum limits must be maintained:
Workers' Compensation Statutory
Employer's Liability $ 1,000,000 each occurrence
3.COMPREHENSIVE AUTO LIABILITY insurance shall include owned,hired,and
non-owned vehicles operated by Franchisee employees on an occurrence basis with coverage of at
least$2,000,000 per occurrence.
If the Franchisee, its contractors, or subcontractors do not have the required insurance,the County
may require such entities to stop operations until the insurance is obtained and approved.
Certificates of Insurance reflecting evidence of the required insurance and approved by the County's
9
Risk Manager for the GENERAL LIABILITY policies described above,shall be sent to the County's
risk manager. The certificate shall be filed with the acceptance of the franchise, and annually
thereafter, and as provided below. All coverage shall be listed all on one certificate with the same
expiration dates.
The certificates shall contain a provision that coverages afforded under these policies will not be
canceled until at least 30 days'prior written notice has been given to the County.
In the event that the insurance certificate provided indicates that the insurance shall terminate or
lapse during the period of the franchise,then,in that event,the Franchisee shall furnish,at least 30
days prior to the expiration of the date of such insurance,a renewed certificate of insurance as proof
that equal and like coverage has been or will be obtained prior to any such lapse or termination
during the balance of the period of the franchise.
The County reserves the right, during the term of the franchise, to require any other insurance
coverage or adjust the policy limits as it deems reasonably necessary utilizing sound risk
management practices and principals based upon the loss exposures.
Each insurance policy required pursuant to this franchise shall be primary and non-contributing as
respects any coverage maintained by the County and shall include an endorsement reflecting the
same. Any other coverage maintained by County shall be excess of this coverage herein defined as
primary and shall not contribute with it. The certificate of insurance must reflect that the above
wording is included in all such policies.
Each insurance policy obtained pursuant to this franchise shall be issued by financially sound
insurers who may lawfully do business in the State of Washington with a financial rating at all times
during coverage of no less than rating of"A" and a class of"X" or better in the latest edition of
"Best's Key Rating Guide"published by A.M.Best Company,or such other financial rating or rating
guide approved in writing by the County's risk manager. In the event that at any time during
coverage,the insurer does not meet the foregoing standards,Franchisee shall give prompt notice to
the County and shall seek coverage from an insurer that meets the foregoing standards. The County
reserves the right to change the rating or the rating guide depending upon the changed risks or
availability of other suitable and reliable rating guides.
Comprehensive general liability insurance policies and coverage obtained pursuant to this franchise
shall include an endorsement(standard ISO form CG 24-17)deleting all exclusions for work or
incidents occurring within any distance from a railroad track or railroad property, or on, over, or
under a railroad track.
Insurance policies required pursuant to this franchise shall have no non-standard exclusions unless
approved of by the County Risk Manager or designee.
Commercial general liability insurance policies obtained pursuant to this franchise shall name the
10
County as an additional insured without limitation,pursuant to an endorsement approved of by the
County's Risk Manager or designee.
Franchisee and Franchisee's Contractors' insurers, through policy endorsement, shall waive their
rights of subrogation against the County for all claims and suits. The certificate of insurance must
reflect this waiver of subrogation rights endorsement.
Commercial General Liability Insurance policies and coverage required herein of public utility
operators may include a reasonable deductible or self-insured retention;provided,however,that as to
any Loss or Damage covered as provided herein, if Franchisee elects to include any deductible or
self-insured retention,Franchisee shall itself directly cover,in lieu of insurance,any and all County
liabilities that would otherwise in accordance with the provisions of this Franchise be covered by
Franchisee's insurance if Franchisee elected not to include a deductible or self-insured retention.
Such direct coverage by Franchisee shall be in an amount equal to the amount of Franchisee's actual
deductible or self-insured retention. Franchisee shall be required to provide a certification of self-
insurance retention to the county in a form and content acceptable to the county engineer.
B. Performance/Payment Bond. At the same time Franchisee provides its acceptance of this
Franchise, the Franchisee shall, if required by the County Engineer, provide a performance and
payment bond to ensure the full and faithful performance of all of its responsibilities under this
franchise and applicable rules, regulations and ordinances, including, by way of example, but not
limited to,its obligations to relocate and remove its utility facilities,to restore the road rights-of-way
and other property when damaged or disturbed, and to reimburse the County for its costs. The
amount of the performance and payment bond shall be for ZERO ($0). The amount of the bond,or
cash deposit as described below, may be adjusted by the County every five years from the date of
execution of this franchise,to take into account cumulative inflation or increased risks to the County.
The Franchisee may be required to obtain additional bonds in accordance with the County's ordinary
practices. The bond shall be in a form with terms and conditions acceptable to the County and
reviewed and approved by the County Engineer. The bond shall be with a surety with a rating no
less than "A X" in the latest edition of"Bests Key Rating Guide," published by A.M. Best Guide.
The Franchisee shall pay all premiums or costs associated with maintaining the bond,and shall keep
the same in full force and effect at all times.If Franchisee fails to provide or maintain the bond,then
the County,in its sole discretion,may require Franchisee to substitute an equivalent cash deposit as
described below in lieu of the bond.
Franchisee, may at its election or upon order by the County, substitute an equivalent cash deposit
instead of a performance and payment bond. This cash deposit shall ensure the full and faithful
performance of all of Franchisee's responsibilities hereto under this Permit and all applicable laws,
rules, regulations or ordinances. This includes, but is not limited to, its obligations to relocate or
remove its facilities, restore the road rights-of-way and other property to their original condition,
reimbursing the County for its costs, and keeping Franchisee's insurance in full force.
The County shall notify Franchisee in writing, by certified mail, of any default and shall give
11
Franchisee thirty(30)days from the date of such notice to cure any such default. In the event that the
Franchisee fails to cure such default to the satisfaction of the County,the County may,at its option,
forfeit the entire amount of the cash deposit or draw upon the cash deposit up to the amount of the
County's costs incurred to cure Franchisee's default. Upon the County's cure of Franchisee's
default,the County shall notify Franchisee in writing of such cure.
In the event that the County draws upon the cash deposit or forfeits the same, Franchisee shall
thereupon replenish the cash deposit to the full amount as specified herein or provide a replacement
performance and payment bond.
Before any Work commences in the road right-of-way,the County Engineer may require the operator
to provide a performance and payment bond for each separate project in an amount to be determined
by the County Engineer, but not less than five hundred dollars, written by a surety company
acceptable to the County Risk Manager and authorized to do business in the state of Washington.
The purpose of the bond is to insure completion of construction, including the restoration of
surfacing,slopes,slope treatment,topsoil,landscape treatment,and drainage facilities,and cleanup
of rights-of-way, and payment of costs incurred by the County to enforce the requirements of this
Chapter. The performance and payment bond shall be in place for a period ending not more than one
year after the date of completion.
A project specific performance bond shall not be required in the event that the franchisee has in place
a blanket performance bond and, when required, a payment bond, maintained pursuant to the
requirements of this franchise.
A performance and payment bond for work in the road right-of-way will not be required of the
United States Government or any of its agencies or of any municipal corporation or department
of the state of Washington and its local subdivisions.
C. Limitation of Liability. To the fullest extent permitted by law,the Franchisee shall,and
shall cause its contractor(s) to release, indemnify, defend and hold harmless the county and the
county's legal representatives,officer(elected or),appointed)employees and agents(collectively,
"indemnitees")for,from and against any and all claims, liabilities,fines,penalties,cost,damages,
losses, liens, causes of action, suits, demands, judgments and expenses (including, without
limitations, court costs, attorneys' fees and costs of investigation, removal and remediation and
governmental oversight costs),Environmental or otherwise(collectively"liabilities")of any nature,
kind,or description,of any person or entity,directly or indirectly,arising out of,resulting from,or
related to (in whole or in part):
1. this franchise;
2. any rights or interests granted pursuant to this franchise;
3. franchisee's occupation and use of the road right of way;
12
4. franchisee's operation of its utility facilities;
5. the presence of utility facilities within the right of way;
6. the environmental condition and status of the road right-of-way caused by,
aggravated by, or contributed to, in whole or in part,by franchisee or its agents; or
7. The acts,errors,or omissions of third parties when arising out of the installation,
construction,adjustment,relocation,replacement,removal,or maintenance of such third party utility
facilities within the road rights-of-way when such work is performed under authority of the
operator's utility permit or at the direction or under the control of the operator; or
8. any act or omission of franchisee or franchisee's agents;
The only liabilities with respect to which franchisee's obligation to indemnify the indemnitees do not
apply are liabilities to the extent arising out of, caused by or resulting from the negligence of the
county, its officers, agents, employees or contractors and liabilities that by law the indemnities
cannon be indemnified for.
Upon written notice from the county,franchisee agrees to assume the defense of any lawsuit or other
proceeding brought against any indenmitee by any entity, relating to any matter covered by this
franchise for which franchisee has an obligation to assume liability for and/or save and hold harmless
any indemnitee.Franchisee shall pay all cost incident to such defense,including,but not limited to,
attorneys' fees,investigators'fees,litigation and appeal expenses,settlement payments and amounts
paid in satisfaction of judgments. Franchisee will fully satisfy said judgment within ninety(90)days
after said suit or action shall have finally been determined if determined adversely to Mason County.
Upon the Franchisee's failure to satisfy said judgment within the ninety (90) day period, this
franchise shall at once cease and terminate.
Acceptance by the County of any Work performed by the Franchisee at the time of completion shall
not be grounds for avoidance of this covenant.
XII. FRANCHISE NONEXCLUSIVE
This franchise shall not be deemed to be an exclusive franchise. It shall in no manner prohibit the
County of Mason from granting other utilities under,along,across,over and upon any of the County
roads,rights-of-way or other County property subject to this franchise and shall in no way prevent or
prohibit the County of Mason from constructing, altering, maintaining or using any of said roads,
rights-of-way,drainage structures or facilities,irrigation structures or facilities,or any other county
property or affect its jurisdiction over them or any part of them with full power to make all necessary
changes,relocations, repairs,maintenance, etc.,the same as the county may deem fit.
13
XIII. SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS
All the provisions,conditions,regulations and requirements herein contained shall be binding upon
the successors and assigns of the Franchisee,and all privileges,as well as all obligations and liability
of the Franchisee, shall ensure to its successors and assigns equally as if they were specifically
mentioned wherever the Franchisee is mentioned. Any reference in this franchise to a specifically
named party shall be deemed to apply to any successor, heir, administrator, executor or assign of
such party who has acquired its interest in compliance with the terms of this franchise,or under law.
XIV. TRANSFER/ASSIGNMENT
Franchisee may assign or transfer this franchise after prior written notice to County of Mason and
assignee's written commitment,in a form and content approved by the County Prosecutor,delivered
to County of Mason,that assignees shall thereafter be responsible for all obligations of Franchisee
with respect to the franchise and guaranteeing performance under the terms and conditions of the
franchise and that transferee will be bound by all the conditions of the franchise and will assume all
the obligations of its predecessor. Such an assignment shall relieve the Franchisee of any further
obligations under the franchise, including any obligations not fulfilled by Franchisee's assignee;
provided that,the assignment shall not in any respect relieve the Franchisee,or any of its successors
in interest,of responsibility for acts or omissions,known or unknown,or the consequences thereof,
which acts or omissions occur prior to the time of the assignment. No franchise or master road use
permit may be assigned or transferred without filing or establishing with the county the insurance
certificates and performance bond as required pursuant to this franchise.
XV. ANNEXATION
Whenever any of the County roads, rights-of-way or other county property as designated in this
franchise,by reason of the subsequent incorporation of any town or city,or extension of the limits of
any town or city, shall fall within the city or town limits and shall by operation of law or otherwise
terminate in respect to the said roads,rights-of-way or other county property so included with city or
town limits; this franchise shall continue in force and effect to all county roads, rights-of-way or
other county property not so included in city or town limits.
XVI. REVOCATION/REMEDIES
A. Revocation. In addition the right to revoke this franchise as set forth in Title 12 of the
Mason County Code, if the Franchisee shall willfully violate, or fail to comply with any of the
provisions of this franchise through willful or unreasonable neglect or fail to heed or comply with
any notice given the Franchisee under the provision of this grant, then Franchisee shall forfeit all
rights conferred hereunder and this franchise may be revoked or annulled,after a public hearing by
the Board of County Commissioners. The Franchisee shall not be relieved of any of its obligations
to comply promptly with any provision of this franchise by reason of any failure of the County to
enforce prompt compliance,and the County's failure to enforce shall not constitute a waiver of rights
14
or acquiescence in the Licensee's conduct.
Subject to the required consent, adjudication, permission or authorization of a federal or state
regulatory agency with jurisdiction over the subject matter, upon revocation of the franchise, the
County may require the Franchisee to remove its utility facilities from any road rights-of-way,and
restore such road right-of-way to its same or better condition as existed just prior to such removal,or
de-commission and abandon such utility facilities in place in whole or in part and in a manner
approved by the County Board of Commissioners. If the Franchisee fails to remove utility facilities
that the County requires it to remove,the County may perform the work and collect the cost thereof
from the Franchisee. The actual cost thereof,including direct and indirect administrative costs,shall
be a lien upon all utility facilities of the Franchisee within the franchise Area effective upon filing of
the lien with the Mason County Auditor.
B. Remedies. The County has the right to exercise any and all of the following remedies,
singly or in combination,in the event of Default. "Default"shall mean any failure of Franchisee or
its agents to keep,observe,or perform any of Franchisee's or its agent's duties or obligations under
this franchise:
1. Damages. Franchisee shall be liable for any and all damages incurred by County.
2. Specific Performance. County shall be entitled to specific performance of each
and every obligation of Franchisee under this franchise without any requirement to prove or establish
that County does not have an adequate remedy at law. Franchisee hereby waives the requirement of
any such proof and acknowledges that County would not have an adequate remedy at law for
Franchisee's commission of an Event of Default hereunder.
3. Injunction. County shall be entitled to restrain, by injunction, the actual or
threatened commission or attempt of an Event of Default and to obtain a judgment or order
specifically prohibiting a violation or breach of this Agreement without, in either case, being
required to prove or establish that County does not have an adequate remedy at law. Franchisee
hereby waives the requirement of any such proof and acknowledges that County would not have an
adequate remedy at law for Franchisee's commission of an Event of Default hereunder.
4. Alternative Remedies. Neither the existence of other remedies identified in this
franchise nor the exercise thereof shall be deemed to bar or otherwise limit the right of the County to
commence an action for equitable or other relief, and/or proceed against Franchisee and any
guarantor for all direct monetary damages, costs and expenses arising from the Default and to
recover all such damages, costs and expenses, including reasonable attorneys' fees. Remedies are
cumulative; the exercise of one shall not foreclose the exercise of others.
XVII. SUBSEQUENT ACTION
In the event that after this franchise becomes effective, (a) there is a change in the law which
15
broadens the authority of the County of Mason or the Franchisee with respect to any act permitted or
authorized under this franchise; or (b)the County of Mason or the Franchisee believe that
amendments to this franchise are necessary or appropriate, then the County of Mason and the
Franchisee agree to enter into good faith negotiations to amend this franchise so as to enable the
Parties to address, in a manner reasonably acceptable to all Parties, such change or other
development which formed the basis for the negotiations. The Parties recognize that the purpose of
the negotiations would be to preserve, to the maximum extent consistent with law, the scope and
purpose of this franchise.
Mason County reserves for itself the right at any time upon ninety (90) days written notice to the
Franchisee, to so change, amend, modify or amplify any of the provisions or conditions herein
enumerated to conform to any state statute or county regulation,relating to the public welfare,health,
safety or highway regulation,as may hereafter be enacted,adopted or promulgated and this franchise
may be terminated at such time a public hearing is held by the Board of County Commissioners,and
the Franchisee's utility facilities are found not to be operated or maintained in accordance with such
statute or regulation.
XVIII. ACCEPTANCE
Franchisee shall execute and return to the County of Mason a signed acceptance of the franchise
granted hereunder. The acceptance shall be in the form of the acceptance attached hereto as Exhibit
"A", and in accepting the franchise, Franchisee warrants that it has carefully read the terms and
conditions of this franchise and accepts all of the terms and conditions of this franchise and agrees to
abide by the same and acknowledges that it has relied upon its own investigation of all relevant facts,
that it has had the assistance of counsel, that it was not induced to accept a franchise, that this
franchise represents the entire agreement between the Franchisee and the County of Mason. In the
event the Franchisee fails to submit the countersigned ordinance and acceptance as provided for
herein within the time limits set forth in this section,the grant herein is and shall become null and
void.
XIX. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
A. Controlling Law/Venue. Any disputes concerning the application or interpretation of any
of the provisions of this franchise shall be governed by the laws of the State of Washington. Venue
of any action or arbitration brought under this franchise shall be in Mason County,Washington or the
Western District of Washington if an action is brought in federal court, provided, however, that
venue of such action is legally proper.
B. Liens. Franchisee shall promptly pay and discharge any and all liens arising out of any
Work done, suffered or permitted to be done by Franchisee on any Franchise Area.
C. Waiver. No waiver by either party of any provision of this franchise shall in any way
impair the right of such party to enforce that provision for any subsequent breach, or County of
16
Mason's right to enforce all other provisions of this franchise.
D. Attorney's Fees. If any action at law or in equity is necessary to enforce or interpret the
terms of this franchise, the substantially prevailing Party or Parties shall be entitled to reasonable
attorney's fees,costs and necessary disbursements in addition to any other relief to which such Party
or Parties may be entitled.
E. Amendment. This franchise may be amended only by a written contract signed by
authorized representatives of Franchisee and County of Mason.
F. Severability. If any provision of this franchise is held to be illegal, invalid or
unenforceable under present or future laws,such provision will be fully severable and this franchise
will be construed and enforced as if such illegal, invalid or unenforceable provision is not a part
hereof,and the remaining provisions hereof will remain in full force and effect. In lieu of any illegal,
invalid or unenforceable provision herein, there will be added automatically as a part of this
franchise; a provision as similar in its terms to such illegal, invalid or unenforceable provision as
may be possible and be legal, valid and enforceable.
G. Joint and Several Liability. Franchisee acknowledges that, in any case in which
Franchisee and Franchisee's Contractors are responsible under the terms of this franchise, such
responsibility is joint and several as between Franchisee and any such Franchisee's Contractors;
provided that,the Franchisee is not prohibited from allocating such liability as a matter of contract.
H. Notices. Any notice contemplated, required, or permitted to be given under this
franchise shall be sufficient if it is in writing and is sent either by: (a)registered or certified mail,
return receipt requested;or(b)a nationally recognized overnight mail delivery service,to the Party
and at the address specified below,except as such Party and address may be changed by providing
notice to the other Party no less than thirty (30) days' advance written notice of such change in
address.
Franchisee: Tahuya River Valley Water District
PO BOX 849
Belfair, WA 98528
Grantor: County of Mason Public Works
100 Public Works Drive
Shelton, WA 98584
I. Approvals. Nothing in this franchise shall be deemed to impose any duty or obligation
upon the County of Mason to determine the adequacy or sufficiency of Franchisee's plans and
specifications or to ascertain whether Franchisee's proposed or actual construction, testing,
17
maintenance,repairs,replacement,relocation,adjustment or removal is adequate or sufficient or in
conformance with the plans and specifications reviewed by the County of Mason. No approval
given, inspection made,review or supervision performed by the County of Mason pursuant to this
franchise shall constitute or be construed as a representation or warranty express or implied by
County of Mason that such item approved, inspected, or supervised, complies with laws, rules
regulations or ordinances or this franchise or meets any particular standard,code or requirement,or
is in conformance with the plans and specifications,and no liability shall attach with respect thereto.
County and inspections as provided herein, are for the sole purpose of protecting the County of
Mason's rights as the owner or manager of the road rights-of-way and shall not constitute any
representation or warranty,express or implied,as to the adequacy of the design,construction,repair,
or maintenance of the utility facilities, suitability of the Franchise Area for construction,
maintenance,or repair of the utility facilities,or any obligation on the part of the County of Mason to
insure that work or materials are in compliance with any requirements imposed by a governmental
entity. County of Mason is under no obligation or duty to supervise the design, construction,
installation, relocation, adjustment, realignment, maintenance, repair, or operation of the utility
facilities.
J. Force Majeure. Neither Party hereto shall be liable to the other Party for any failure to
perform an obligation set forth herein to the extent such failure is caused by war,act of terrorism or
an act of God, provided that such Party has made and is making all reasonable efforts to perform
such obligation and minimize any and all resulting loss or damage.
K. Construction. All pronouns and any variations thereof shall be deemed to refer to the
masculine,feminine or neuter,singular or plural,as the identity of the Party or Parties may require.
The provisions of this franchise shall be construed as a whole according to their common meaning,
except where specifically defined herein,not strictly for or against any party and consistent with the
provisions contained herein in order to achieve the objectives and purposes of this franchise.
L. Incorporation by Reference. All exhibits annexed hereto at the time of execution of this
franchise or in the future as contemplated herein, are hereby incorporated by reference as though
fully set forth herein.
M. Calculation of Time. All periods of time referred to herein shall include Saturdays,
Sundays,and legal holidays in the State of Washington,except that if the last day of any period falls
on any Saturday,Sunday,or legal holiday in the State of Washington,the period shall be extended to
include the next day which is not a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday in the State of Washington.
N. Entire Agreement. This franchise is the full and complete agreement of County of Mason
and Franchisee with respect to all matters covered herein and all matters related to the use of the
Franchise Area by Franchisee and Franchisee's Contractors,and this franchise supersedes any and all
other agreements of the Parties hereto with respect to all such matters,including,without limitation,
all agreements evidencing the franchise.
18
O. No Recourse. Without limiting such immunities as the County or other persons may have
under applicable law,Franchisee shall have no monetary recourse whatsoever against the County or
its officials, boards, commissions, agents, or employees for any loss or damage arising out of the
County's exercising its authority pursuant to this Franchise or other applicable law.
P. Responsibility for Costs. Except as expressly provided otherwise,any act that Franchisee
is required to perform under this franchise shall be performed at its cost. If Franchisee fails to
perform work that it is required to perform within the time provided for performance, the County
may perform the work and bill the Franchisee. The Franchisee shall pay the amounts billed within
30 days.
Q. Work of Contractors and Subcontractors. Work by contractors and subcontractors is
subject to the same restrictions, limitations, and conditions as if the work was performed by the
Franchisee. The Franchisee shall be responsible for all work performed by its contractors and
subcontractors,and others performing work on its behalf,under its control,or under authority of its
utility permit,as if the work were performed by it and shall ensure that all such work is performed in
compliance with this franchise, Title 12 MCC, the Manual and other applicable law, and shall be
jointly and severally liable for all damages and correcting all damage caused by them. It is the
Franchisee's responsibility to ensure that contractors, subcontractors, or other Persons performing
work on the Franchisee's behalf are familiar with the requirements of the franchise,Title 12 MCC,
the Manual, and other applicable laws governing the work performed by them.
R. Survival of Terms. Upon the expiration, termination, revocation or forfeiture of the
franchise,the Franchisee shall no longer have the right to occupy the franchise area for the purpose
of providing services authorized herein. However,the Franchisee's obligations under this franchise
to the County shall survive the expiration, termination, revocation or forfeiture of these rights
according to its terms for so long as the Franchisee's utility facilities shall remain in whole or in part
in the road rights of way. By way of illustration and not limitation, Franchisee's obligations to
indemnify, defend and hold harmless the County, provide insurance and a performance/payment
bond pursuant to Section XI and Franchisee's obligation to relocate its utility facilities pursuant to
Section VIII, shall continue in effect as to the Franchisee, notwithstanding any expiration,
termination, revocation or forfeiture of the franchise, except to the extent that a County-approved
transfer, sale,or assignment of the utility system is completed,and another entity has assumed full
and complete responsibility for the utility system or for the relevant acts or omissions.
S. Warranties. By acceptance of this franchise, Franchisee warrants:
1. That Franchisee has full right and authority to enter into and perform this
Franchise in accordance with the terms hereof, and by entering into or performing this Franchise,
Franchisee is not in violation of its charter or by-laws,or any law,regulation,or agreement by which
it is bound or to which it is subject; and
2. That the execution,delivery,and performance of this Franchise by Franchisee has been duly
authorized by all requisite Board/Commission action, that the signatories for Franchisee of the
19
acceptance hereof are authorized to sign this Franchise,and that the joinder or consent of any other
party, including a court, trustee, or referee, is not necessary to make valid and effective the
execution, delivery, and performance of this Franchise and acceptance.
DATED at Shelton, Washington this 1 day of : 1 CthlAQvi 202.
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
APPROVED: MASON COUNTY, WASHINGTON
County Engineer Chair
Approve as to form:
Vic ?
Chief D.P.A. �"v.
Commission-
20
Exhibit A
ACCEPTANCE OF FRANCHISE
Ordinance No. 115-06, effective November 14, 2006.
I Anthony T. Butler , am the Bookkeeper of Tahuya River Valley Water District
and am the authorized representative to accept the above-referenced franchise on behalf of
Tahuya River Valley Water District
I certify that this franchise and all terms and conditions thereof are accepted by
Tahuya River Valley Water District, without qualification or reservation.
DATED this 021 day of Del o , 20/q .
FRANCHISEE
By:
Its:
Tax d. No. 91-1783164
STATE OF Washington
)ss.
COUNTY OF Mason I certify that I know or have satisfactory evidence that PtV l\1 fZY■ 21.-5\`1kr is the
person who appeared before me,and said person acknowledged that he/she si_ this inst ment,on ath stated
that he/she was horized t e: cute the i strumen nd acknowledged it as the of
the e the free and voluntary act of suc party or the uses and
purposes the tinned in the instrum nt.
Dated:
gR(��,� 1�� Not• •PuLon
yl
"`•%%4 _iQ 14 Pri t: expires '
iQ•
s pIP�Y I /" ,
4 S5 q `XP1R�Sr
�
It OF` wp �
s
A
EXHIBIT B
Description of Franchise Area
Tahuya River Valley A
----- -— 4- _ __ NE VALLEY SIDE LN
I co. -T
1A -�C ,
\ y; \, \
O NE SNOWCAP DR P.
.. , . \ &MU A ,,i 1,i,i-it:04 ..,
t __, ,7..j..,,Ti-,,,,,,, „ . N,
N ..
•
, I - NEt
l •
----.L.,ty 1----,- \ ‘•-•
<1 \ I - ''
!•
t '!
`\ -y
0
a
B
RECORDED AT THE REQUEST OF
AND AFTER RECORDING RETURN TO:
County of Mason
100 West Public Works Drive
Shelton WA 98584
Attn: County Engineer
Title: Tahuya River Valley Water District Franchise Agreement
Grantor: COUNTY OF MASON, a legal subdivision of the state of Washington
Grantee: Tahuya River Valley Water District
Description of Franchise Area: SEE EXHIBIT B