INTRODUCTORY
The City Council of the City
of Columbia, Missouri, met for a regular meeting at 7:00 p.m., on Monday,
September 15, 1997, in the Council Chamber of the City of Columbia, Missouri. The
roll was taken with the following results: Council Members CROCKETT,
CAMPBELL, KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, and JANKU were present. Member COFFMAN
was absent. The City Manager, City Counselor, City Clerk, and various
Department Heads were also present.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes of the regular
meeting of September 2, 1997, were approved unanimously by voice vote on
a motion made by Mr. Janku and a second by Ms. Coble.
APPROVAL AND ADJUSTMENT OF AGENDA INCLUDING
CONSENT AGENDA
The agenda, including the
Consent Agenda, was approved unanimously by voice vote on a motion made by
Mr. Kruse and a second by Mr. Campbell.
SPECIAL ITEMS
None.
Mayor Hindman explained that
there had been a major fire last week in downtown Columbia. He noted
that the Fire Department had responded quickly and had managed to contain
a very difficult and dangerous fire. There were no serious injuries. Mayor
Hindman thanked the Fire Department.
SCHEDULED PUBLIC COMMENTS
None.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
B244-97 Establishing
Parks and Recreation Department fees.
The bill was given second
reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck said only two Parks
and Recreation fees would be affected by an increase.
Mr. Green explained that
staff proposes to increase summer day camp by $15.00, and establish a new
fee for the lighted, premier soccer fields at $75 per game.
Mr. Janku noted that the
soccer lights had been paid for by the quarter cent sales tax.
Mayor Hindman opened the
public hearing.
There being no comments,
Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
B244-97 was given third reading
with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: CROCKETT, CAMPBELL,
KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT:
COFFMAN. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
B245-97 Amending
Chapter 27 of the City Code regarding water rates.
The bill was given second
reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck noted that this
is the only utility increase being proposed in the annual budget. At
the time of the water ballot issue, residents had been informed that the
City would propose a 2% water rate increase for FY98. Mr. Beck pointed
out that the increase for the average residential customer would be about
25 cents per month.
Mayor Hindman opened the
public hearing.
Henry Lane, 1816 E. Broadway,
felt that the Water and Light Department presently has a considerable amount
of money on hand. He thought approximately $12 million was currently
available. Mr. Lane said in a cash flow analysis made by the City in
December of 1996, it was estimated the Water and Light Department would begin
the year with $8 million, and end it with $11 million in cash. He said
that was without a rate increase. Mr. Lane prepared his own analysis
and distributed it to the Council. His analysis indicated the total
amount of money that the Water and Light Department would have available
in FY98, both in cash and securities, would be about $12 million. He
said that would increase to about $23 million by the end of the year. It
was obvious to him that the increase was not necessary. He said it
was apparently being collected because the City thinks it will need the money
in the year 2000. In 1996, Mr. Lane explained that the Water and Light
Department said they would need two 5% increases in water rates in 2000 and
2001. He noted that the City decided to go with four 2% raises over
the next four years. According to a memo from the City Manager, the
reason for this had been to make the adjustments in the water rates easier
for water users. Comparing the two rates, four 2% hikes and two 5%
hikes, Mr. Lane said the revenue comes out more for the City when they impose
the 2% increases. He wondered if the change had been for the benefit
of the customers, or for the benefit of the City. Mr. Lane said the
increase would hurt a lot of people who are already having a hard time paying
utility bills.
Mr. Campbell reiterated that
the rate increase would amount to approximately 25 cents per month. He
asked if Mr. Lane was suggesting that this would have a major impact on the
average person. Mr. Lane said if a person is currently having a hard
time paying utility bills, he would think this increase would impact them.
Mr. Janku pointed out that
this issue had been presented at the time of the ballot issue, and voters
had overwhelmingly approved it. Mr. Lane noted that there had been
no mention of the increase on the ballot. Mr. Janku said it was contained
in the information made available to the public.
Mayor Hindman closed the
public hearing.
Mr. Janku explained that
the reason this funding mechanism is in place is to maintain a credible bond
rating, and he noted that the City enjoys a very strong bond rating. He
said it was better to have a steady income and steady cash reserve rather
than to necessarily increase rates in a crisis when the revenues are not
there. Mr. Janku thought this indicated sound financial management.
Mr. Campbell commented that
he did not think 25 cents per month would have a major impact on very many
budgets. He said it would be very minimal. Mr. Campbell noted
that the Water and Light utility was a very large account and while the figures
mentioned by Mr. Lane seemed large, in terms of good financial management,
they are part of that package.
Mr. Beck pointed out that
the money in the Water and Light utility is kept in a separate account. Referring
to the question asked about the benefactor, Mr. Beck noted that the City
is the customer. He explained that if it is found that increases are
not needed, they would not be implemented.
Ms. Fleming pointed out that
some of the money Mr. Lane indicated was available is indeed reserved for
specific purposes. She said the City has almost $2 million in customer
deposits on hand that show-up in the daily cash flow; however, those dollars
cannot be spent. Ms. Fleming explained that Water and Light also has
reserves as part of the City's bond requirements. In the investment
that has been established, the bond's maturity coincides with the maturity
of a debt the City has incurred. She said the value of that treasury
security is anticipated to be used to retire that debt. Although there
are cash balances on the books, Ms. Fleming pointed out that much of it is
restricted for specific purposes and would not be available to spend on capital
projects.
Mayor Hindman said the rate
increase had been discussed prior to the ballot issue and staff thought it
would be more appealing to the residents of the community, and better for
the consumer, if the projected rate increases were to be brought in gradually.
B245-97 was given third reading
with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: CROCKETT, CAMPBELL,
KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: COFFMAN. Bill
declared enacted, reading as follows:
B246-97 Establishing
a Post Employment Health Plan for City employees.
The bill was given second
reading by the Clerk.
When beginning the budget
process, Mr. Beck explained that a strategy had been developed as to what
percent increases would be available for personnel costs, materials, etc. There
are several bills this evening associated with personnel issues, the first
of which concerns a medical savings plan. He pointed out that it would be
part of the total personnel package.
Mr. Beck reported a portion
of the total personnel cost included this $201,000 that would establish a
post employment health insurance program for City employees. Mr.
Beck said that this program was something very high on the list of the personnel
groups the City has been negotiating with for a number of years. He
said that Pebsco had come up with a plan that was felt to be compatible for
the City. Mr. Beck noted that it has been discussed with various work
groups, employee groups, and employees.
Mr. Hargrove stated that
Joyce Hall, a Pebsco representative, was available to answer any questions. He
explained that the plan calls for the City to contribute $12 per month, per
employee, into the plan. In addition, there is an item regarding payment
of $1 per hour for accumulated sick leave when employees retire from City
service. He said this money would also go into the plan to help pay
for post employment health care.
Mayor Hindman asked if there
was any employee contribution into this plan. Mr. Hargrove said there
was not. He said employee contribution was not allowed under this type
of plan.
Mayor Hindman opened the
public hearing.
There being no comments,
Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
B246-97 was given third reading
with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: CROCKETT, CAMPBELL,
KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: COFFMAN. Bill
declared enacted, reading as follows:
B247-97 Adopting
the FY98 pay plan.
The bill was given second
reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck pointed out this
bill also falls within the budget strategy for personnel. He noted
there was an amendment sheet that would provide for an employee 3% cost of
living pay increase. Mr. Beck noted that a percentage of the employees
are eligible for a merit increase. Lower paid employees would have
an increase based on hourly rates.
Mr. Campbell made the motion
to amend B247-97 per the amendment sheet. The motion was seconded by
Mr. Kruse and approved unanimously by voice vote.
Mayor Hindman opened the
public hearing.
There being no comments,
Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
B247-97, as amended, was
given third reading with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: CROCKETT,
CAMPBELL, KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: COFFMAN. Bill
declared enacted, reading as follows:
B248-97 Amending
Chapter 19 of the City Code regarding personnel policies, rules and
regulations.
The bill was given second
reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck said this is a continuation
of the series of personnel ordinances. He said it addressed reimbursement
of standby, on-call provisions. A small percentage of total personnel
funds are made available for this part of the plan. He noted there
was an amendment sheet dealing with personnel represented by the Columbia
Police Officers Association.
Mr. Hargrove explained that
the amendment sheet was due to an oversight and a little miscommunication. He
said the amendment would be consistent with the equipment allowance and flexible
benefit.
Mr. Janku made the motion
that B248-97 be amended per the amendment sheet. The motion was seconded
by Mr. Kruse and approved unanimously by voice vote.
Mayor Hindman opened the
public hearing.
There being no comments,
Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
Mr. Campbell commented that
the entire Council had a great appreciation for the highly professional and
proficient City employees.
B248-97, as amended, was
given third reading with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: CROCKETT,
CAMPBELL, KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: COFFMAN. Bill
declared enacted, reading as follows:
B243-97 Adopting
the FY98 budget for the Special Business District.
The bill was given second
reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained that each
year the Special Business District is included in the City's Annual Budget. He
pointed out that their funds come primarily from special property taxes assessed
against the properties within a geographic area.
Mr. Beck said there has been
a decreasing amount of revenues for the District because of tax law changes
by the state legislature. In addition, anytime there are public buildings
added within the District's geographic boundaries, taxes are not paid to
this account. Last year, Mr. Beck said there had been discussions about
how the program might be continued so it would be ongoing in the Central
Business District. One of the options was to provide further funding
from the City's general fund to maintain the trees in the Central Business
District. As an alternative, they had gone the route of utilizing the
City's funds as a payment in lieu of tax to the District for those public
buildings the City owns within the District, and requesting the County and
the University to follow a similar procedure. He said this is the second
year the City has followed that guideline. A study has been completed
as to what portion of that would be the City's, and Mr. Beck said it was
incorporated in the budget as revenue of $17,500. He said that was
an increase of what it was a year ago.
Mayor Hindman opened the
public hearing.
There being no comments,
Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
Mr. Janku said the business
community downtown should be commended for their willingness to band together
and form this special district and to basically self-impose an additional
tax which is designated for street cleaning and other things downtown. He
commented that the leadership downtown was strong and this should be recognized.
B243-97 was given third reading
with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: CROCKETT, CAMPBELL,
KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: COFFMAN. Bill
declared enacted, reading as follows:
B211-97 Adopting
the FY98 budget.
The bill was read by the
Clerk.
After Council budget work
sessions with the various departments and work sessions on the budget in
general, Mr. Beck said the staff had put together an amendment sheet incorporating
various items the Council wished to present to the public. He said
most of the amendments constituted technical changes.
Mr. Beck noted that a grant
had been received since the time the City Manager's budget was initially
presented to the Council. The first item on the amendment sheet reflected
the grant received from the Department of Conservation. In order to
avoid future ordinances dealing with the appropriation of those funds, Mr.
Beck said staff suggested the grant be incorporated in the budget at this
time. He noted the other grants involved and explained that these are
shown as revenues.
Mr. Beck reviewed the items
the Council asked to have incorporated on the amendment sheet -- which will
be additions or deletions/reductions. In addition to this particular
amendment sheet, alternative uses for CDBG money had been determined. Mr.
Beck said if the Council makes changes to the CDBG budget, the capital improvement
sheets would be adjusted accordingly. He said it would simply be an
allocation shown in the budget.
Mr. Beck reported that according
to HUD requirements, the City is required to hold a public hearing for any
amendments to the CDBG plan. The suggestion was to hold the public
hearing in October. Mr. Beck said this had been done annually on the
City's overall comprehensive HUD plan. The money the City anticipated
receiving for the next year is approximately $1 million. In the past,
a plan has been brought to the Council in two phases; one was what the City
was fairly certain of receiving, and the other was what actually ended up
being announced. This year, Mr. Beck said HUD had asked that the City
try to develop a plan for the full amount rather than in two phases. He
said those funds would not usually become available until some time after
February of the following year. He said there was a plan approved by
the Community Development Commission which was incorporated in the budget,
shown as exhibit A.
Regarding the Boone House,
Mr. Beck said the question had been asked whether the City could work toward
holding and preserving the Boone House if funds would not be available until
February of 1998. Mr. Beck and the staff had looked at the overall
CDBG resources and have talked to HUD representatives as to what alternatives
might be available. If the Council chooses to proceed, particularly
prior to February, Mr. Beck said he had a way the funding could be addressed. He
described the plan. He said to hold and preserve the Boone Home did
not mean that the City would be bringing the building up to code or any renovations
would be done. In addition, the City can only obtain CDBG money for
the appraised value of the home. Mr. Beck said if there is a difference
between the appraisal and what the owner is asking, funds other than HUD
monies would have to be used. He said the City did not have an appraisal
of the home at this time. If the City buys the property at fair market
value and the community decides not to go forward, the City could then sell
the property. Theoretically, Mr. Beck said the City would not be out
any money until preservation and renovation begins. Exhibit B implements
the described plan for holding and preserving the building.
John Clark, President of
the North Central Neighborhood Association, explained that they are requesting
four things. The first request is for an increase in the category of
Service Agency Facilities, specifically the North Central Columbia Neighborhood,
from $10,000 to at least $28,005. The next request is to decrease the
Public Works Ash Street construction from $45,000, by at least a similar
amount of $18,005. The third request is that the Council provide the
neighborhood association a list of specific concerns that need to be addressed
before the City would accept dedication of any of the proposed project sites. The
last item is to include a list of specific City personnel with which the
Council would wish the Association to consult, and whose approval the Council
would accept as binding, with respect to the issues the Association is asked
to consider. Mr. Clark said it would take an additional $18,005 to
fund the first four priority projects. He said the Association believed
this was the minimum project size that will provide an adequate opportunity
to actually demonstrate the value of the overall project and to allow them
to garner the community support which is important for making it a success. In
the course of constructing the projects, he said they expect to receive support
from the property owners and from other community sources. If sufficient
funding is not received, Mr. Clark said the neighborhood is fearful of being
severely hampered in working with the owners of the properties -- the City,
Columbia College, and the School District.
Mr. Kruse asked if $10,000
was the only funding that could be granted for the projects, what the Association's
priorities would be. Mr. Clark said the project would have to be re-examined.
Mayor Hindman said if the
Council gave the neighborhood $10,000, that would certainly show an interest
on the part of the Council. Mr. Clark said there was no doubt that
it would show some interest but, given the length of the planning, he felt
it would still leave a question. Mayor Hindman suggested that the Association
seek other funding sources to determine what the commitment might be were
the City to provide more funding at a later date.
Greg Olson, 217 W. Broadway,
addressed items concerning the restoration of the Boone House. He said
the Foundation was very encouraged by some of the developments in the past
few days. Mr. Olson thanked the Council for taking a step in proposing
a commitment that would show the value of this house to the City. He
said the Foundation was looking forward to a close working relationship with
the City to further this project.
Mr. Olson explained that
there were three issues that have come up since the last meeting he felt
should be addressed. Fund raising was the first issue. He said
there had been a lot made in the last few days about the fact that, as a
group, the John William Boone Heritage Foundation has not been able to raise
significant money on their own. He said there was approximately $2,500
in the bank and in outstanding pledges. He said this is money that
has been received from individuals, and the Foundation was very happy to
have it. He assured the Council that they did not intend to be passive
fund raising partners in this project. At this time, Mr. Olson said
they have three grants pending aside from the application for City CDBG money. One
of which was a $25,000 grant application with the State Historic Preservation
Office. Should the grant come through, it would be used to secure an
architect who could go through the building and prepare a set of plans which
would restore the historic fabric of this building in accordance with Secretary
of Interior standards for rehabilitation.
The second issue is the deteriorating
condition of the building. Mr. Olson reported the building is 106 years
old and is falling apart. He said there are obviously numerous code
violations and the Foundation wanted to assure the Council and the public
that they are looking at a broader picture regarding the restoration of the
historic fabric of the house. While a new building and cultural heritage
center would be fine, Mr. Olson said to overlook this opportunity to restore
a direct link to the past would be a grievous error.
Finally, Mr. Olson said the
Foundation would like to assure everyone they are not looking for a center
that is going to be simply an African American cultural heritage center. He
said they are looking at something broader -- a cultural heritage center
that would address the contributions of Blind Boone. Mr. Olson asked
people to look past the initial down payment to the long-term. He said
they saw it as a matter of economic development because there would exist
possibilities for heritage tourism dollars to be brought into Columbia should
this and some of the other museum projects for the Flat Branch area come
to pass.
John John, 1001 LaGrange
Court, spoke in support of a request for funding for a neighborhood park. The
request was for playground equipment at Grant School. He explained
that a budget had been established for $30,000 and, of that amount, the Grant
School PTA has contributed $6,000 and donations have raised an additional
$8,000. He said they are seeking another $16,000, possibly in CDBG
money. Mr. John said there were really no City parks in this area. In
the past, the City of Columbia, through the Parks and Recreation Department,
has partnered with the school board in buying land next to schools and developing
parks on the property.
Mr. Campbell questioned whether
or not Grant School was in the CDBG eligibility area. It was determined
that it was not. Mr. Campbell said he was very supportive of the project
and that he would speak to it later.
Laurie Green, a local attorney,
spoke on behalf of Freedom House II. She explained that they are a
not-for-profit corporation that was formed in order to obtain a HUD grant
for the purpose of constructing a 12 unit barrier-free apartment house.
Diane Miller, President of
the Board of Directors of Freedom House II, explained that six 2-bedroom
and six 3-bedroom apartment units are planned for disabled people with families. Ms.
Miller said they had encountered a "snag", which the project consultant would
further explain.
Jack Oliver, President of
Metrocorp, Project Consultant, said he had received a commitment for a grant
from HUD in the amount $965,700. He said not only was a grant received
to build the project, but Section 8 funds will also be received. Mr.
Oliver stated the apartments would be available for low and moderate income
families who are disabled. The project "snag" had just come to light
within the past two weeks, and the deadline is scheduled for September 30. He
said they were proceeding along that path until a call was received in which
it was indicated that HUD could not provide funding for the full property
value of $127,000 (the price negotiated with Stephens College). The
property has two houses on it and HUD can only grant the "as is" value --
meaning the value of the property without the two houses. Mr. Oliver
said the amount HUD was willing to grant was a little over $72,000. The
problem at this point is a monetary shortfall of approximately $53,400. He
asked the Council whether there was some way the City could provide that
sum of money. Mr. Oliver pointed out that the project was ready to
go as soon as the funds are available.
Mr. Campbell explained that
public hearings had to be advertised and held before any kind of City funding
could be expended. He asked about the absolute deadline for having
funds in hand. Mr. Oliver said the deadline given was September 30
and, after that point, HUD had indicated that they would recapture those
funds and send them back to Washington. An alternative he thought they
had was, if the City was willing to make a definitive commitment to the project
with a specific time, a bridge loan of some sort could be granted. Mr.
Oliver said he would not hesitate to go to HUD and take whatever route might
be available to extend the deadline.
Mayor Hindman asked about
Mr. Oliver's relationship to the project. Mr. Oliver said he was the
consultant and had no other relationship other than arms length. Mayor
Hindman asked when he had found out about the situation. Mr. Oliver
said it had been about two weeks ago.
Mr. Campbell asked when the
grant had been given. Mr. Oliver said the approval had been received
a year ago April, at which point they began the process of completing the
plans and getting bids.
Ms. Coble asked if they were
prepared to begin construction September 30. Mr. Oliver said they were
ready to go within 10 days of that date.
Mr. Oliver pointed out that
the property had been submitted at the price of $127,000 from day one. He
said HUD had been out and looked at it, but they had not supplied an appraised
value of the land until two weeks ago.
Mrs. Crockett asked if all
of the building plans were ready to go. Mr. Oliver said they were. He
had the plans and specifications completed and approved by HUD and their
architectural staff. Mr. Oliver said an independent contractor was
hired out of Arizona, at HUD's request, to review the prices to ensure they
were acceptable to HUD.
Mr. Janku asked if any other
entities within the community had been contacted, such as financial institutions
or trusts. Mr. Oliver said their attorney had contacted some of the
local banks regarding programs they have established for assisting the community. He
said this type of project apparently does not fit into the description required
for that use. Mr. Oliver reported there had been discussions of possibly
asking some of the local foundations for assistance, but in most cases they
have already made their commitments for 1997, and many of them for 1998.
Mr. Kruse said this was obviously
a very worthy project that should be easy to raise money around. He
said the problem was the time frame.
Jerry Morris, a member of
the Freedom House Board of Directors, is a handicapped person who works for
Services for Independent Living. Mr. Morris pointed out that SIL works
with all types of disabilities. He said this was by far one of the
greatest, most severe needs of the community -- accessible housing for the
disabled in the community. In his opinion, this was a very worthy project. Mr.
Morris said they were down to the wire and were approaching the City because
they need help.
Matt Effington, 2302 Oakland
Gravel Road, Resource Development and Volunteer Coordinator for Rainbow House,
which is an emergency shelter for abused and neglected children and families
in crisis situations. He explained that the Rainbow House's request
was for $30,035 in CDBG funds for buying a 15-passenger van. The van
is used to transport the children Rainbow House serves to 28 schools in Columbia. Transportation
is provided to all of the schools because this is seen as an important part
of the children's stability during a stressful time of their life. Mr.
Effington explained that the present van is 13 years old and was very unreliable. The
last time it was in for repairs, they had been told it would not be worth
the financial investment to get it fixed.
Mayor Hindman pointed out
that the request from Rainbow House had remained in the budget from the beginning.
Ben Loeb, 166 W. Green Meadows,
Director of the Columbia Tennis Association, had been informed by the Parks
and Recreation that lighting at the Rock Bridge High School tennis courts
had been proposed for the fiscal year 1998 budget. He reported this
had been proposed last year, but had not been funded. He asked that
the project be funded this year in that there are no other public courts
in the area. Regarding the CIP, Mr. Loeb asked the Council to think
about financing tennis courts in Cosmo-Bethel Park. He suggested that
this could begin by adding four courts to the area and, perhaps, the school
district would allow the use of the property behind Gentry Middle School
for this purpose.
Mark Jones, 111 Switzler,
asked that funds be made available for responsible people in the inner city
area for special projects. He said the small children and teenagers
need help as did the elderly.
Mayor Hindman closed the
public hearing.
Mayor Hindman recapped the
requests the Council had heard this evening. He said although the requests
were very appealing, it was a difficult situation because the budget was
very tight to begin with.
Regarding Freedom House II,
Mr. Janku asked if staff knew of any funds that have not been programmed
at this point. He wondered about allocated ADA funds. He reported
the Council could not vote on anything tonight because a public hearing would
have to be held first.
Mr. Campbell asked if the
Council had any options. Mr. Beck had discussions with HUD, and also
with Stephens College. He said this could be a very worthwhile project
and, from a personal standpoint, he had always been supportive of working
with the disabled. Mr. Beck had looked for ways to make this a viable
project, but there are real concerns about whether or not this could happen. CDBG
money is used for two things -- grants and loans. If a loan was made,
HUD indicated that any repayment of the loan could not come from operational
revenues derived by the agencies, unless it was from special projects such
as chili suppers. Mr. Beck said the only other possible alternative
is a grant, and he seriously doubted that the project could be closed by
the deadline. Regarding ADA funding, he said there would not be enough
money available. Mr. Beck was very sorry the City received the request
as late as they had. Mr. Beck said the only possible option appeared
to be using the loan payback money. He asked Mr. Hancock if that could
be done without any additional hearings.
Mr. Hancock said if some
older CDBG funds that had been assigned to certain projects were reprogrammed,
funds would be available in November or December. He said the City
could not do any kind of commitment for a loan guarantee until this process
is followed. Mr. Hancock explained that the account Mr. Beck was referring
to was from the old rental rehabilitation program. He said that money
(paybacks) was targeted for a match with the HOME Program. He said
the City had been lucky to be able to use tax credit proceeds from the Hanover
projects for that match. Mr. Hancock reported that the rehabilitation
program was funded through the HOME Program.
Mr. Janku said even this
alternative would require a number of Council meetings and a public hearing. Mr.
Beck said to make this work, Freedom House II would have to take out a short-term
loan, and the Council would have to appropriate funds out of the account
Mr. Hancock previously mentioned to reimburse the bank for the short-term
loan. Mr. Janku asked if the City could make it a loan. Mr. Campbell
said, in essence, the City would be robbing Peter to pay Paul; HOME funds
were supposed to be used for making home ownership available to low income
people. He said this had always been a high priority for the Council.
Mr. Kruse asked whether Stephens
College would be willing to owner finance the difference.
Mr. Campbell pointed out
that the budget the Council was looking at contains a sum total of $13,000
remaining in the contingency fund. He said the budget was tight and
there were no funds just lying around. Mr. Campbell said the City was
caught in a severe money bind as well as a time bind.
Mayor Hindman thought every
attempt should be made to get this project accomplished as there are some
unanswered questions that need to be looked into. Mayor Hindman suggested
that it be further researched and perhaps discussed at the next work session
on the 22nd.
Regarding the Grant School
Park, Mr. Campbell said the Council had been moving in that direction for
a number of years, but as stated earlier, there is not a policy in place
nor the funds right now to do it. Mr. Campbell stated he will address
later in the meeting the development of such a policy.
Mr. Janku pointed out that
there are some general unallocated funds for neighborhood park improvements
in the budget. Once a policy is in place, he thought the Council could
possibly look at it for this year's budget. Mr. Janku reported there
are a number of examples of neighborhood school cooperation.
Mayor Hindman said he would
like to see such a policy taken one step further. He said there were
lots of opportunities for neighborhood parks, especially small ones that
could have a small playground and take up very little space. Mayor
Hindman said this could be done cooperatively with neighborhoods as well.
Mrs. Crockett said in this
particular instance it would save the City from buying a piece of land in
an area where a park is very much needed.
Regarding the North Central
Neighborhood request, Mayor Hindman felt the $10,000 was a show that the
City was willing to experiment with the project, and that the Council appreciates
what the neighborhood has done. When balancing the various priorities,
he felt $10,000 was a very appropriate amount.
Mr. Campbell commended the
North Central group on their activism and efforts to improve their neighborhood. He
said he had raised some practical concerns about their proposal and, as an
individual, he would be happy to meet with them.
Mr. Janku said if the project
is demonstrated to be a success, the Council could come back in future years
and support it.
Mr. Kruse agreed and said
if one or two high profile, high quality projects could be completed with
the money, this could spur additional community support.
Ms. Coble made the motion
that B211-97 be amended per
amendment sheet B (CDBG). The motion was
seconded by Mr. Kruse and approved unanimously by voice vote.
Mr. Campbell made the motion
that B211-97, as amended, be further amended per amendment sheet A. The
motion was seconded by Mr. Janku and approved unanimously by voice vote.
B211-97, as amended, was
read with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: CROCKETT,
CAMPBELL, KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: COFFMAN. Bill
declared enacted, reading as follows:
B238-97 Rezoning
from R-2 PUD to C-P property at the southeast corner of Hyde Park and
Nifong.
The bill was given second
reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck said this rezoning
request had been recommended for approval by the Planning and Zoning Commission
on a 7 to 2 vote. He said two conditions had been attached to the recommendation. One
condition was that the uses be limited to District O-1, and the other was
that there be no driveway access onto Nifong Boulevard.
Mr. Kruse asked if the staff
was in support of the rezoning with the conditions. Mr. Hancock said
they were in support of it with the conditions.
David Rogers, an attorney
with offices at 813 E. Walnut, spoke on behalf of the applicant. He
explained that this was the club house building at the Hyde Park apartments. He
said it has commercial usage across the street both ways. He said the
usage requested was for C-P zoning, but limited to O-1 uses, which makes
it basically a planned office use without the necessity of going back through
the process again. Mr. Rogers said it was also agreed that the plan
should limit access onto Nifong Boulevard.
B238-97 was given third reading
with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: CROCKETT, CAMPBELL,
KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT:
COFFMAN. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
OLD BUSINESS
B229-97 Confirming
the contract for construction of a flood intake structure at Wetland Treatment
Unit
3, and appropriating funds.
The bill was read by the
Clerk.
Mr. Beck noted that the request
by the staff was to further table the bill. He explained that staff
is working on a way to get the project accomplished within the deadline and
the bids received or, in the alternative, get an extended deadline so the
project could be rebid.
Dan Barkledge, an attorney
for Missouri Bridge Company, explained that he had spoken on the company's
behalf at the last meeting. He noted that their position was still
the same and asked that the Council award them the bid.
Mrs. Crockett reiterated
the fact that Missouri Bridge Company had not used the proper bid form the
City requested.
Mr. Campbell made the motion
to table B229-97 to October 6, 1997. The motion was seconded by Mrs.
Crockett and approved unanimously by voice vote.
B237-97 Authorizing
Transportation Enhancement Funds Program agreements for the Bear Creek
Trail
Phase 3 and Hinkson Creek Trail Phase 2 projects, and appropriating funds.
The bill was given second
reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained that this
would actually authorize the City to enter into the contract agreements.
B237-97 was given third reading
with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: CROCKETT, CAMPBELL,
KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: COFFMAN. Bill
declared enacted, reading as follows:
B249-97 Authorizing
City Manager to execute an annexation agreement with Angelo & Mary
Skyvalidas
- Victoria South.
The bill was given second
reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained that this
agreement would authorize a connection to the City sewer system in accordance
with the policy agreements that have been worked out.
Mayor Hindman said this would
be the first connection under the new policy regarding annexations.
B249-97 was given third reading
with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: CROCKETT, CAMPBELL,
KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: COFFMAN. Bill
declared enacted, reading as follows:
B250-97 Authorizing
City Manager to execute an annexation agreement with Menu Maker Foods,
Inc.
The bill was given second
reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck said a request from
the applicant had been received to have this item tabled.
Mr. Campbell made the motion
that B250-97 be tabled to the October 6, 1997, meeting. The motion
was seconded by Mrs. Crockett and approved unanimously by voice vote.
R132-97 Approving
the preliminary plat of Stoneridge Estates, Phase 1, and granting variances.
The resolution was read by
the Clerk.
Mr. Beck said there had also
been a request by the applicant to table this issue.
Mr. Campbell made the motion
to table R132-97 to the October 20, 1997, meeting. The motion was seconded
by Mrs. Crockett and approved unanimously by voice vote.
CONSENT AGENDA
The following bills were
given second reading and the resolutions were read by the Clerk.
B239-97 Approving
the final plat of Providence Village South, Plat 1.
B240-97 Approving
the final plat of Hanover Plaza, Plat 4.
B241-97 Assessing
a special tax to abate weed nuisances.
B242-97 Accepting
water utility conveyances.
R139-97 Setting
a public hearing regarding installation of traffic signals at the intersection
of Tenth
and
Rogers.
R140-97 Setting
a public hearing regarding construction of improvements to the sanitary landfill.
R141-97 Authorizing
a right of use permit to allow Dodie Douglas to adopt a spot for beautification
on
Bernadette Drive.
R142-97 Authorizing
a right of use permit to allow Mill Creek Landscaping and Highlands Realty
to
adopt
a spot for beautification along a portion of Forum Boulevard.
R143-97 Authorizing
a right of use permit to allow Columbia Jaycee's to adopt a spot for
beautification
along a portion of Forum Blvd.
R144-97 Authorizing
a right of use permit to allow Debi Soper to adopt a spot for beautification
along
a portion of Forum Boulevard.
R145-97 Authorizing
application for Department of Conservation grant for tree maintenance along
the
MKT Trail.
The bills were given third
reading and the resolutions read with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING
YES: CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU. VOTING
NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: COFFMAN. Bills declared enacted
and resolutions declared adopted, reading as follows:
NEW BUSINESS
R146-97 Authorizing
contracts for FHWA and FTA planning grants.
The resolution was read by
the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained that this
was an annual renewal of the City's agreement under the programs with FHWA
and FTA funds. He said it would provide for $80,190 in FHWA funds and
$20,000 in FTA funds.
The vote on R146-97 was recorded
as follows: VOTING YES: CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE,
JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: COFFMAN. Resolution
declared adopted, reading as follows:
R147-97 Authorizing
an agreement with Central Missouri Aviation for lease of a ground site
for the
construction
of a hangar.
The resolution was read by
the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained that the
applicant is requesting to lease a 110 x 125 foot hangar area at the airport
on the south side of Taxiway C. The agreement would be for 25 years
and would have renewal options. Mr. Beck said Central Missouri Aviation
would be paying the City a ground rental fee of eight cents per square foot,
which amounted to $1,100 per year.
The vote on R147-97 was recorded
as follows: VOTING YES: CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE,
JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: COFFMAN. Resolution
declared adopted, reading as follows:
R148-97 Authorizing
an agreement with the University for membership in MOREnet.
The resolution was read by
the Clerk.
Mr. Beck said staff had been
working on this program for some time and the City's share would be a one-time
cost of $1,300 for the leased circuit installation and connection fee. He
said there would be an annual cost of $7,240 for the membership, and some
miscellaneous contractual costs of $840. Mr. Beck pointed out that
this had been reviewed by the staff and they were recommending approval.
The vote on R148-97 was recorded
as follows: VOTING YES: CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE,
JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: COFFMAN. Resolution
declared adopted, reading as follows:
The following bills were introduced by the Mayor, unless otherwise indicated, and all were given first reading:
B251-97 Amending
Chapter 14 of the City Code regarding establishing an all-way stop
at the
intersection
of LaSalle Place and Pendleton Street.
B252-97 Amending
Chapter 14 of the City Code regarding parking.
B253-97 Amending
Chapter 14 of the City Code to make LaSalle Place a one-way street.
B254-97 Amending
Chapter 14 of the City Code regarding angle parking.
B255-97 Amending
Chapter 14 of the City Code to establish all-way stops at the intersections
of
Fifth
and Ash and Tenth and Park Avenue.
B256-97 Amending
Chapter 18 of the City Code regarding firefighter pensions.
B257-97 Authorizing
an agreement with Boone County for jury parking.
B258-97 Calling
for bids for construction of Cell No. 2 in Area 4 of the sanitary landfill.
B259-97 Calling
for bids for construction of sewers in Sewer District No. 138 (Route B).
B260-97 Authorizing
Change Order No. 1 and accepting the engineer's report on construction of
the
Hardin-Mikel-Donnelly Drainage Project, Phase 1.
B261-97 Rezoning
from A-1 to PUD-6 property on the south side of St. Charles Road east of
Dorado
Drive.
B262-97 Rezoning
from R-1 to R-2 and C-P property on the east side of Ballenger Lane north
of
Clark
Lane.
B263-97 Approving
the final plat of Oak Forest, Block V-D.
B264-97 Authorizing
an addendum to the Agreement for Public Safety Joint Communications
System.
REPORTS AND PETITIONS
(A) Adding Bernadette
Drive to the Sidewalk Master Plan.
Mr. Beck said staff was recommending
that this be deferred until the work is completed on the remaining sidewalk
planning. He noted that he and the Mayor had met with a representative
from the Missouri Department of Transportation. He explained a seminar
would be held in Columbia either in October or November regarding pedestrian
transportation alternatives. Mr. Beck said the Mayor suggested that
they attend the seminar before completing the sidewalk plan.
Mr. Janku said he had asked
for the report and he thought it was not the highest priority, but down the
road it would be necessary.
(B) Board of Health
Water Safety Task Force Report.
Mr. Beck explained that the
suggested Council action was to prepare an appropriation ordinance and also
refer it to the Building Construction Codes Commission or the Law Department
to have an ordinance prepared. He was in agreement with the latter
two, but said as far as appropriating money at this time, he would rather
see it associated with the Health Department budget. When the ordinance
is completed, it could be determined at that time if an appropriation of
additional money is necessary.
Ms. Coble asked if there
had been a staff preference as to where this report should be forwarded next. Mr.
Beck said the Law Department would need to prepare the ordinance. He
thought the Building Construction Codes Commission was mentioned because
there may be a question as to whether or not the building code situation
is applicable. Mr. Boeckmann assured the Council that he would not
prepare the ordinance without first consulting with Protective Inspection. He
said the BOCA ordinances would probably be introduced at the next Council
meeting.
Regarding the recommendations,
Mr. Janku said there was no mention of water being retained in the pools
when not in operation. He said that was the situation which resulted
in the deaths of one or two of the children involved. He said the report
did not seem to address that issue. Mayor Hindman thought the recommendations
required that pools be covered. It was thought pools could come out
of the ground in the winter if some water does not remain in them. Mr.
Janku wondered if that problem could be addressed during a pool's construction.
Regarding the education effort,
Mayor Hindman said there was a group called the Columbia Safety Council,
and he wondered if they would be interested in taking on the issue. Mr.
Beck said he would ask Mr. Sanford to discuss it with them.
It was decided the report
would be referred to the staff and to the Commission, if need be.
(C) Intra-Departmental
Transfer of Funds.
Report accepted.
(D) Street Closure
Requests.
Mayor Hindman explained that
the requests were for closing Walnut Street on Saturday, September 27, from
4:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, September 28, from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00
p.m. for the Missouri Fall Festival; and closing Fourth Street, from Ash
to the alley on the north side of the Tribune building on Saturday, October
4, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for a picnic for the Tribune paper carriers.
Mr. Campbell made the motion
that the requests be approved as written. The motion was seconded by
Mrs. Crockett and approved unanimously by voice vote.
(E) Final Report
of the Public Health Services Review Task Force.
Mayor Hindman commented that
this report represents a lot of hard work by a number of people. He
suggested that the Council receive staff input and then discuss the issue
at a future work session. He said the Council needs to move ahead promptly
on it.
Ms. Coble said one thing
she was pleased to see in the report was the clear conclusion that current
space needs were paramount for the County City Health Department for all
of its operations and its public health role. She said it was apparent
that those needs should be addressed immediately.
Mayor Hindman made the motion
that the report be referred to the staff for their recommendation back to
the Council.
The motion was seconded by
Mr. Campbell and approved unanimously by voice vote.
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
Upon receiving the majority
vote of the Council the following individuals were appointed to the following
boards and commissions:
BUILDING CONSTRUCTION CODES COMMISSION
Naugle, Gary E., 1700 Dozier Station Rd., County
- term to expire 8/1/00
COMPUTER ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Wetherill, Leo G., 127 S. Fifth Street, Ward
2 - term to expire 8/1/00
CONVENTION & VISITORS ADVISORY BOARD
Bank, Gail I., 1214 S. Fairview Road, Ward 4
- term to expire 9/30/99
Schultz, Thomas D., 1311 Troon Drive, Ward 5
- term to expire 9/30/99
CULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMISSION
Miller, Craig R., 1510 Windsor Street, Ward
3 - term to expire 4/1/99
CULTURAL AFFAIRS STANDING COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC
ART
Hunter, Marie Christine, 4301 Forum Blvd., Ward
4 - term to expire 7/1/98
ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT COMMISSION
Collins, Nancy C., 1201 Paquin, Ward 1 - term
to expire 6/1/99
FINANCE ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Johnson, Walter L., 503 Edgewood, Ward 4 - term
to expire 12/31/98
PERSONNEL ADVISORY BOARD
Dorsey, Maryanne, 4904 Bethel, Ward 5 - term
to expire 9/30/00
Rainsberger, Paul K., 2401 Hillshire Drive,
Ward 4 - term to expire 9/30/00
RISK MANAGEMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Keller, Calvin A., 1105 Vegas Drive, Ward 4
- term to expire 1/1/00
COMMENTS OF COUNCIL, STAFF AND PUBLIC.
Mr. Campbell made the motion
that the staff be directed to prepare a policy resolution for Council consideration
regarding the earlier discussion about Grant School and a park. The
motion was seconded by Mr. Janku and approved unanimously by voice vote.
Mr. Campbell explained that
many years ago the Convention & Visitors Bureau was seeking additional
funds and, at that time, they had a considerable budget surplus. The
Council directed them to reduce their budget and then come back and talk. He
said when the report was given to the Council this time, Lorah Steiner noted
that the budget was getting down to a relatively small amount. She
felt their budget was being squeezed somewhat. Mr. Campbell thought
it was time for the Convention and Visitors Advisory Board to come forward
with a three to five year plan for financing and programs that the Council
might consider.
Mr. Campbell made the motion
that the Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Advisory Board be directed
to prepare a three to five year plan that will include financing and programs. The
Bureau shall present a preliminary version of the plan by January 1. The
motion was seconded by Ms. Coble and approved unanimously by voice vote.
Regarding Grant School, Mr.
Kruse said after the Council adopts a policy resolution, he would like to
see further consideration given to at least partially funding the playground/park.
Mr. Janku said the Council
were all pleased with the Adopt A Spots agreements that were approved this
evening. He wondered if it was time to work on having the downtown
planters adopted and thought this might be a good time to pursue that.
Mr. Janku said he had received
comments from someone who had been a member of the Martin Luther King Memorial
Committee. The request was that the Council see what they could do
to help with the visibility of the quotes at the Memorial. Mr. Janku
said they were difficult to read and perhaps they needed to be stained to
provide more of a contrast. He said there was also some type of leaching
occurring onto the Memorial.
Regarding the funds for the
North Central Neighborhood Association markers, Mr. Janku said the Association
was interested in knowing what steps were necessary to keep the project moving
so it can be implemented. He said any direction provided would be appreciated. Mayor
Hindman said he felt confident the staff would work with the Neighborhood
Association.
As a follow-up of the discussion
regarding the CDBG funds, Mr. Beck said he would like the Council to make
a motion setting a hearing for October 6. He said that way it could
be advertised accordingly. He noted there would still be the 30-day
comment period.
Mayor Hindman made the motion
that the Council hold the public hearing on October 6, 1997. The motion
was seconded by Mr. Kruse and approved unanimously by voice vote.
Mr. Beck commented that he
felt the overall budget process had gone very well. He said he had
already thanked the staff, but wanted to thank the Council for all of the
time they spent on work sessions and preparation. He said there were
numerous issues that had been addressed because Columbia is a full service
City.
The meeting adjourned at
10:10 p.m.
Respectfully
submitted,
Penny
St. Romaine
City
Clerk
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