INTRODUCTORY
The City Council of the City of Columbia, Missouri met for
a special session at 6:00 p.m., on Monday, August 17, 1998, in the Council Chamber
of the City of Columbia, Missouri. The roll was taken with the following
results: Council Members COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, and CAMPBELL were present. Members
JANKU, CROCKETT, and KRUSE were absent. The City Manager, City Counselor,
and City Clerk were also present.
Mayor Hindman explained that the purpose of the special meeting
was to adjourn to a closed meeting to discuss legal causes of action and litigation
as authorized by Section 610.021 RSMo.
Ms. Coble made the motion that the Council adjourn to a closed
meeting. The motion was seconded by Mr. Campbell with the vote recorded
as follows: VOTING YES: COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, CAMPBELL. VOTING
NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: JANKU, CROCKETT, KRUSE. Motion passed.
The regular meeting convened at 7:10 p.m. The roll was taken with the following results: Council members COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, and CAMPBELL were present. Council members JANKU and KRUSE were 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 August 3, 1998, were
approved unanimously by voice vote on a motion made by Mr. Campbell and a second
by Ms. Coble.
APPROVAL AND ADJUSTMENT OF AGENDA INCLUDING CONSENT AGENDA
Upon her request, Mr. Campbell made the motion that Mrs. Crockett
be allowed to abstain from voting on B228-98, B229-98, and B233-98. He
further motioned that at Mr. Coffman's request, he be allowed to abstain from
voting on R169-98. The motion was seconded by Ms. Coble and approved unanimously
by voice vote.
The agenda, including the Consent Agenda, was approved unanimously
by voice vote on a motion made by Mr. Campbell and a second by Ms. Coble.
SPECIAL ITEMS
None.
SCHEDULED PUBLIC COMMENTS
None.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
B251-98 Setting property tax rates for 1998.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck reported there is a proposed amendment. He explained that
the Library Board's request is one cent different from what was contained in
the bill as introduced. He noted that the City's tax rate would remain
the same as last year.
Mayor Hindman pointed out the City's property tax rate had
been reduced a year ago.
Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
There being no comments, Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
Mr. Campbell made the motion to amend B251-98 per the amendment
sheet. The motion was seconded by Ms. Coble and approved unanimously by
voice vote.
B251-98, as amended, was given third reading with the vote
recorded as follows: VOTING YES: COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT,
CAMPBELL. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: JANKU, KRUSE. Bill
declared enacted, reading as follows:
B252-98 Adopting the FY 99 budget.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck stated that he recently presented a fairly detailed
report to the community, and had sent the Council the budget in a timely manner
in accordance with the City Charter. The overall budget request for FY
99 is approximately $186 million. The largest increase in the proposed
budget is the capital improvement program, up 41%. Mr. Beck noted that
there are very few suggested rate increases. One such increase is the water
rate, which is proposed to go up 2% in accordance with the recently approved
ballot issue. He also noted some suggested fee changes in the Parks and
Recreation budget. In addition, Mr. Beck reported there is a proposed increase
in the social services budget as well as the cultural affairs department.
Mr. Beck explained the proposed budget for FY 99 includes
nine and one-half new positions, which is less than the growth of the community. He
explained the Council will have public work sessions on individual budgets submitted
by the various departments, and he is hopeful the overall budget could be adopted
at the September 21, 1998, regular meeting.
Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
K.C. Morrison, member of the Cultural Affairs Commission,
presented their contract recommendations for two programs which included presentation
and art education projects. He explained that the funding process began
in March of this year with a proposal writing workshop for potential applicants. Applications
had been distributed at that time, and had also been mailed to all of the previous
applicants. He added that the funding process had been advertised in all
of the local newspapers. In addition, the staff had been available for
individual consultations until the proposal deadline of May 22, 1998. The
Commission itself held a work session on June 18th, at which time they reviewed
proposals and made preliminary recommendations.
Mr. Morrison reported nineteen requests were submitted totaling
more than $104,000, compared to 18 requests last year for $93,000. As part
of the evaluation process, the Commission received a funding history since 1995
for agencies that had previous support. If a proposal was funded last year,
he explained that the applicant was given the previous year's comments. Mr.
Morrison said the Commission also gave explicit consideration to the extent these
projects contributed to greater program coordination and collaboration between
organizations. In addition, special attention was given to last year's
comments in reference to management audits -- if there had been one or if there
had been an ADA survey.
Mr. Morrison reported a public hearing was held on July 9th,
and at that hearing 19 representatives had been present from 10 organizations. He
noted the comments made at that meeting have been forwarded to the Council. Mr.
Morrison stated the Commission recommends funding in the amount of $66,350 for
18 different programs. He said they are also suggesting that $2,000 be
allocated to the Commission's special small request category.
Mr. Morrison reviewed the specific considerations the Commission
plans to discuss next year relating to the establishment of a minimum budget
size for grant requests, revisiting the conflict of interest policy for assessing
proposals, and clarifying the funding of salaries and prohibitions against the
use of funds for purchases and repairs. Mr. Morrison said the Commission
feels they are receiving far stronger applications and were continuing to ask
agencies to have management audits. The Commission is also instituting
tighter guidelines and procedures they believe will help organizations in developing
a plan to successfully seek assistance from other agencies. Mr. Morrison
explained the Commission did not think it is wise for agencies to seek all of
their support, or most of it, from any one source.
Mr. Morrison noted that the Commission applauds the Council
for its recognition of the importance of actively supporting the City's arts
and cultural resources.
Mayor Hindman thanked Mr. Morrison and the Commission for
their hard work.
Ms. Coble asked if the Commission saw a direct relationship
between the grant writing assistance that had been provided previous to getting
the applications in. Mr. Morrison said the Commission believed that is
a real benefit for the agencies, something that has been consistently requested. The
Commission felt they are seeing actual growth and development in the way the
proposals are put together.
Mr. Campbell said the Commission had come a long way in a
few short years, and complimented them for doing a wonderful job.
Antonio Holland, 306 W. El Cortez, spoke as a representative
of the John William Boone Heritage Foundation. He is in support of the
Commission's budget request. He said the group is very fortunate that the
Commission had recommended partial funding of the Foundation's request for a
rag time festival in June of next year. He said the Foundation is seeking
additional funding from the Missouri Arts Council and the Missouri Humanities
Council. At this point, Mr. Holland said a brochure has been produced (which
was distributed to the Council) with support from the Missouri Arts Council.
Mayor Hindman continued the public hearing to the September
8, 1998 regular meeting.
B226-98 Rezoning property location on the
west side of Brown Station Road, south of Waco Road, from A-1 to
M-C.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained that the request had been recommended for
approval both by the Planning and Zoning Commission on an 8-1 vote and by the
Planning and Development staff.
Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
Rod Stevens, an attorney with offices at 11 N. Seventh, spoke
on behalf of the property owner, the Kent Living Trust. He noted that the
property is currently zoned agricultural, but has never been used for row crops. He
related the land is very hilly and has a creek dissecting the back third of the
property. Mr. Stevens reported one rental house presently exists on the
property, and some of the tenants in the past have complained about vibrations
coming from the industries across the street. Although the Land Use Plan
designates the property as low density residential, Mr. Stevens did not think
anyone would want to build a house or develop the property in any manner because
of the large amount of industry in the area.
Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
B226-98 was given third reading with the vote recorded as
follows: VOTING YES: COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL. VOTING
NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: JANKU, KRUSE. Bill declared enacted,
reading as follows:
B227-98 Rezoning 209 and 213 Third Avenue
from O-P to C-P; approving a C-P Development Plan.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mayor Hindman noted that a letter was received from the applicant's
attorney requesting that the issue be tabled to the September 21st, 1998, council
meeting. The attorney had also indicated that every effort would be made
to notify all interested parties.
Pat Kelly, 1007 Grand, explained that the neighborhood association
had been notified of the plan to table.
Mr. Campbell made the motion that B227-98 be tabled to the
September 21, 1998, meeting. The motion was seconded by Ms. Coble and approved
unanimously by voice vote.
B228-98 Voluntary annexation of property located
north and west of State Route KK, along both sides of Scott's
Boulevard;
establishing permanent R-1 zoning.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained that R-1 zoning is requested on this 300
acre tract of land pending annexation. The request had been recommended
for approval by the Planning and Zoning Commission as well as by the Planning
staff.
Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
Bill Crockett, 2608 N. Stadium, spoke on behalf of the applicants
requesting annexation and the initial zoning. He explained that all the
owners were present in representation of the development. Mr. Crockett
said the applicants have made every effort to fulfill their agreement that was
developed over several months. Specific conditions of the agreement obligated
the developer to make certain applications at the appropriate time. Mr.
Crockett pointed out that R-1 zoning is normal for newly annexed areas. He
noted that the Hickam property had not been part of the original agreement, but
would like to be considered as such.
Mayor Hindman said this property would have a major impact
on the City, and the entire process has taken quite some time to arrive at this
point.
Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
B228-98 was given third reading with the vote recorded as
follows: VOTING YES: COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, CAMPBELL. VOTING
NO: NO ONE. ABSTAINING: CROCKETT. ABSENT: JANKU,
KRUSE. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
B238-98 Authorizing construction of a 16-inch
water main to serve Ewing Industrial Park, Plat 2; providing
payment
for differential costs; appropriating funds.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mr Beck explained that this is an industrial development and
after staff review, it was determined that a 12 inch water main is not adequate
to serve this development. To serve the entire area and be in accordance
with the Master Plan, Mr. Beck said a 16 inch main should be extended. The
City would pay the differential cost between the 12 and 16 inch main. The
cost to the Water and Light Department, if approved by the Council, would be
approximately $22,000.
Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
There being no comments, Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
B238-98 was given third reading with the vote recorded as
follows: VOTING YES: COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL. VOTING
NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: JANKU, KRUSE. Bill declared enacted,
reading as follows:
B239-98 Authorizing construction and installation
of an 8-inch water main along Nifong Boulevard by City
employees.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck said this is an area in which the City plans to extend
a water line to close some loops in south central Columbia. He noted an
error in the staff report -- the 24 inch transmission main lies on the north
side of Nifong rather than the south side. The cost to the Water and Light
Department, if approved, would be about $5,400.
Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
There being no comments, Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
B239-98 was given third reading with the vote recorded as
follows: VOTING YES: COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL. VOTING
NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: JANKU, KRUSE. Bill declared enacted, reading
as follows:
(A) Construction of sanitary sewers along
Route B.
Item A was read by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck reported that this work will be done in conjunction
with the Route B widening project between the Business Loop and US 63. He
noted that Route B is being widened north of US 63 at the present time. Mr.
Beck explained some sewer lines will have to be relocated in the area, and MoDot
will pay $77,300 of the total project cost of $95,200. The remaining costs
will be paid from the City's sewer utility fund. Mr. Beck's understanding
is that the City plans to bid the project next March.
Mayor Hindman asked how the sewer would go across I-70. Mr.
Patterson said it would be installed underneath the roadway.
Mrs. Crockett made the motion that the staff be directed to
proceed with the final plans and specifications. The motion was seconded by Ms.
Coble and approved unanimously by voice vote.
OLD BUSINESS
B229-98 Approving the final plat of Belmont
Village, Plat No. 11.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained that this plat will create 18 R-1 lots
in the Bear Creek area. One of the proposed lots is a 5.42 acre tract of
land which is of interest to the City in that the developer is proposing to donate
the lot as part of the Greenbelt Plan along Bear Creek. Later on the agenda,
there is a resolution authorizing an agreement with the property owner that the
fill from the lot can be used during the development process, and when finished,
the lot would be cleaned up and made available to the City.
In reference to the excavation on the lot to be donated to
the City, Mr. Campbell questioned whether this will create a hole in the ground. Mr.
Crockett explained some fill from this lot would be used for street construction
and development of the adjoining lots. Mr. Campbell asked if the
lot would be reduced to clay. Mr. Crockett said the upper portion of the
soil is primarily a clay area currently. He explained below that there
is an alluvial type soil that is more porous. Mr. Crockett reported any
top soil on the lot will be set aside and then laid back on top of the excavated
area.
B229-98 was given third reading with the vote recorded as
follows: VOTING YES: COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, CAMPBELL. VOTING
NO: NO ONE. ABSTAINING: CROCKETT. ABSENT: JANKU,
KRUSE. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
B232-98 Approving the final plat of Cambridge
Place Subdivision, Block 1.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained that this would be the first phase of development
and would create 28 lots. He pointed out that the City has an agreement
with the developer regarding participation in the cost of some streets in an
adjacent area. He said the first payment has been made in accordance with
the agreement.
Ms. Coble asked if staff has been contacted about the issue
of two needed culverts further down Rock Quarry Road. Mr. Patterson said
he personally spoke to some of the residents in the area, and had explained that
the problems encountered with storm water run-off are associated with existing
undersized culverts. As part of this development, the hydraulics that were
performed by the engineer indicated and demonstrated that the development would
not increase an existing problem, and that nothing should be corrected as part
of this development. Mr. Patterson reported the culverts are similar to
any other substandard drainage structure in the City, and improvements would
have to compete in priority with other projects in the CIP. Improvements
are not planned as part of this project, but they are looking at the downstream
needs also. Ms. Coble asked if it is likely that there would be an immediate
affect on the need for additional culverts just as soon as the work begins. Mr.
Patterson said he did not think so, nor did the engineering calculations indicate
that would be a severely increased problem. He thought the major issue
is that there is no head room on the culverts, which are already completely inadequate. Mr.
Patterson noted that the project engineer was in the audience and available to
answer questions.
Dave Bennett, project engineer, with offices at 1113 Fay Street,
said as of current calculations, the culverts in question are undersized for
a 25-year storm. He noted that is the standard design criteria. Mr.
Bennett reported there is about two feet of head room on one of the culverts,
and what is needed is about 20 feet in order to push the water through the culvert. In
a 25-year storm, the run-off would go over the road. Mr. Bennett said the
drainage calculations created on the site indicate that the peak water will not
be increasing. He explained this is mainly due to the impervious surface
on the site, and much of the water from the site will actually be getting to
the drainage area quicker than it was before. Mr. Bennett said the water
would be coming through faster, therefore, the actual peak is not increased off
the site. Ms. Coble asked if she understood that more water, running faster
off of an impervious surface did not make the problem worse. Mr. Bennett
said that is correct because the water actually travels down to the drainage
area and the culverts before the peak hits off the lower end of the site.
Mr. Patterson noted that the engineering study on this development
was shared with the County, and their representative concurred with the conclusion
also -- as did the City staff. He explained sometimes detention can increase
the peak because the coincidental time of the peak flow is reaching a certain
point. He reported eight drainage areas were calculated, and by moving
one out quicker, there is less water coming at the time of concentration from
the others.
Ms. Coble said it was her understanding that storm water run-off
is already a problem. Mr. Patterson said that is correct, and that is why
it should be addressed as part of the normal storm water program. He did
not know, however, that problems encountered in this area would become a higher,
immediate priority as a result of the development. Mr. Patterson reported
staff did not think it would, but they would be looking at this situation in
context with all of the other drainage projects.
B232-98 was given third reading with the vote recorded as
follows: VOTING YES: COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL. VOTING
NO: COBLE. ABSENT: JANKU, KRUSE. Bill declared enacted,
reading as follows:
B233-98 Approving the final plat of Thornbrook,
Plat No. 1.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained that this 37 acre tract of land would create
52 lots. The plat includes a 4.1 acre common area, and three lots would
be designated for landscaping and will not be developed in the future.
B233-98 was given third reading with the vote recorded as
follows: VOTING YES: COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, CAMPBELL. VOTING
NO: NO ONE. ABSTAINING: CROCKETT. ABSENT: JANKU, KRUSE. Bill
declared enacted, reading as follows:
B236-98 Authorizing an agreement with GTE
to purchase and install public safety mobile laptop system.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck noted that this is a major project that a committee,
along with Chief Botsford, has been working on. Part of the resources for
this project will be funded from sales tax money, and a portion will be funded
with grant monies.
Chief Botsford explained that this would begin the first two
phases of a three phase project. The first phase includes utilizing six
laptops during a trial period to work out any problems in the system. He
noted the laptops will allow officers to connect to the State MULES system to
run records checks. He said the officers could also do live police reporting
from the vehicle. After a 90 day period, Chief Botsford explained that
phase two will be initiated bringing 44 more units on line, both for the Police
Department and the Fire Department. He noted all units will be live at
this point. The third phase, to begin later, will be the actual live dispatch
from the cars.
Mr. Campbell stated this is a very important project, and
some people are becoming concerned about major computer problems when new programs/projects
are initiated. He asked if this project is fairly mundane and routine. Chief
Botsford is hopeful there will be no major problems. He explained, however,
the project cannot be considered mundane, but it is done in literally hundreds
of communities across the nation. He said the City would not be breaking
new ground in this situation.
Referring to the agreement with GTE, Ms. Coble pointed out
that two days of training will be provided. She asked if that is sufficient. Chief
Botsford said this is primarily a "train the trainer" kind of concept. Most
of the training will be done by the department.
Mayor Hindman said this project had been a topic of considerable
discussion several years ago. He said it had been felt that this is something
the Police needed rather badly, and would provide greater safety for the citizens
as well as for the police. Mayor Hindman noted the laptops would also make
the officers more effective.
Mr. Campbell made the motion to amend B236-98 per the amendment
sheet. The motion was seconded by Ms. Coble and approved unanimously by
voice vote.
B236-98, as amended, was given third reading with the vote
recorded as follows: VOTING YES: COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL. VOTING
NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: JANKU, KRUSE. Bill declared enacted,
reading as follows:
B243-98 Authorizing an agreement to lease
Columbia Terminal Railroad property to Boone County Lumber
Company.
The bill was given second reading y he Clerk.
Mr. Beck commented that the City has an existing agreement
with the lumber company. This request is to utilize some City property
along the railroad at the northwest corner of Rogers and the Colt Railroad right-of-way. He
explained that the Lumber Company would use the property for driveway purposes
and would pay the City $250 per year. The agreement would be reviewed each
year along with the consumer price index.
B243-98 was given third reading with the vote recorded as
follows: VOTING YES: COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL. VOTING
NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: JANKU, KRUSE. Bill declared enacted,
reading as follows:
B247-98 Authorizing an agreement with Bucher,
Willis & Ratliff for design of the Bear Creek Trail Phase 3.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck said this bill relates to continuing efforts to phase
in a trail across north Columbia, along Bear Creek. Phase 3 extends from
Garth to State Route 763, about eight-tenths of a mile. He said that a
group had interviewed several engineering firms and were recommending Bucher,
Willis & Ratliff for an estimated cost of $24,000. Of the $113,000
this phase will cost, $73,883 will come from grant money.
Mayor Hindman is delighted to see the project moving forward. He
said a few more phases would probably complete the circuit across the north part
of town.
B247-98 was given third reading with the vote recorded as
follows: VOTING YES: COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL. VOTING
NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: JANKU, KRUSE. Bill declared enacted,
reading as follows:
B248-98 Authorizing an agreement with Crawford,
Murphy & Tilly, Inc. for engineering services for sanitary
sewer;
appropriating funds.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck said a committee had reviewed consultants in regards
to a fairly major sewer project. The approximate cost for the project is
$1.4 million. The estimated cost of the recommended consultant is $112,600.
B248-98 was given third reading with the vote recorded as
follows: VOTING YES: COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL. VOTING
NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: JANKU, KRUSE. Bill declared enacted,
reading as follows:
B249-98 Authorizing the improvements to the
Oakland Park swimming pool; calling for bids.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck said there has been a great deal of discussion about
this project, and he felt the City is on the right track as far as adding a substantial
aquatic area to Oakland Park -- for which the need has been testified to. The
proposal is to renovate the existing pool and then take alternative bids for
the following: A zero depth family/leisure pool; a water play structure;
a small land slide; and, lastly, a larger water slide for the 50 meter pool. The
plan was displayed on the overhead. Mr. Beck reported the goal is to begin
work as quickly as possible as staff would like to begin construction this fall
to have the 50 meter pool open for use next year, and possibly some of the other
amenities pending the progress of construction. Mr. Beck suggested that
$754,000 be made available for the project. He explained this would be obtained
from monies that remained in Parks and Recreation accounts from previous projects. This
funding would provide for the 50 meter pool, and possibly the zero depth pool
and water play structure for the family pool area. He said the City would
still have the challenge of raising money, depending upon how the bids come in,
for the other water slides. Mr. Beck noted some groups had indicated that
they would help support a plan if the 50 meter pool was retained.
Mr. Coffman asked where the public art would be located. Mr.
Hood located the area on the map and said it should be one of the most visible
areas of the project.
B249-98 was given third reading with the vote recorded as
follows: VOTING YES: COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL. VOTING
NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: JANKU, KRUSE. Bill declared enacted,
reading as follows:
B250-98 Calling an election to reinstate a
local use tax.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
After discussions with the Council at public work sessions
and at the Council retreat, Mr. Beck said staff has supplied a listing of outstanding
and unfunded capital projects, particularly in the area of the Fire Department
facilities due to the fact that a new fire station has not been built in Columbia
since the 80's. He noted there has been substantial growth in the City
since that time.
Mr. Beck reported a 15 year Master Plan had been completed
for future fire facilities. He said what was discussed with the Council
and is being proposed would finance one of three stations shown in the 15 year
plan, and provide the 12 personnel and the equipment required to operate such
a station. Mr. Beck explained the equipment that is purchased would not
only be for the new station, but for other stations as well because of a backlog
of equipment due for replacement. He said it would be very difficult to
replace this type of equipment on an annual basis unless the City were to fluctuate
the tax rate as needs arise. Mr. Beck said many city's do that, and the
Council could increase just the general fund tax rate for the purchase of major
equipment items or changes in operations. In all of his years as City Manager,
Mr. Beck stated the tax rate has been left as is. Instead, the City has
gone to the voters for major capital projects.
Mr. Beck reported revenues from the tax would be used to fund
public safety needs. This includes hiring additional police officers as
well. He said this issue will be discussed with the Council as the process
moves forward with organizational changes.
Mr. Beck explained since the state has passed legislation
allowing local governments to reinstate local use taxes, 77 cities and 19 counties
have done so. The fact that it would be a continuing revenue verifies that
if the Council builds another fire station or continues to add more police personnel
in the community policing program, it would require a continuing source of revenue.
Mr. Beck noted an amendment to the bill is being proposed
this evening which stipulates that the funds would be used for public safety
purposes. Mr. Beck said it is estimated the tax will generate approximately
$880,000 per year.
Mr. Coffman made the motion that B250-98 be amended per the
amendment sheet. The motion was seconded by Mrs. Crockett and approved
unanimously by voice vote.
William Samuels, Chairman of Columbian's Against Unfair Taxes,
noted the ordinance had not been amended to include an expiration date. He
said it would be a continuing new tax with no expiration date in sight. He
noted every time Columbia has some kind of tax proposition, City officials report
the issue is necessary for public safety. He said the City never lets the
citizen's vote on other issues which are more controversial and less necessary. Mr.
Samuels suggested that the City use existing revenues for basic necessities such
as fire trucks, and put the "fluff" on the ballot.
Steven Sapp, spoke on behalf of the Columbia Professional
Fire Fighters Association Executive Board, in support of B250-98. Funding
for personnel, equipment and training are priority items they feel are very necessary
for the citizens of Columbia, considering the substantial growth that has taken
place.
Timothy Moriarity, Police Department, stated that he is the
vice-president of the Columbia Police Officers Association. He said this
group also support B250-98, as amended. He said they would like to see
the revenue geared toward personnel, training, and equipment for both fire and
police.
Mr. Beck was disappointed to hear Mr. Samuels' statement about
the citizens not having an opportunity to vote on issues. He said water
and electric improvements are brought forward as ballot issues. The last
time there was a sales tax issue, Mr. Beck noted citizens were provided an opportunity
to vote on each item separately. He said the Council had been quite flexible
in giving residents an opportunity to vote on individual issues. Mr. Beck
felt the City should be obligated to tell the voters how the revenues will be
used.
Mr. Campbell pointed out that City monies fund very specific
projects. He said this is a very important issue and he is pleased to see
it because Columbia is growing and, therefore, there are needs for additional
facilities. He thought the voters would be overwhelmingly supportive of
this activity.
Mayor Hindman said there is a certain element of fairness
to this issue that needs to be kept in mind. He said the state collects
this tax now, and 77 other cities and 19 counties also collect it, as did the
City of Columbia until there was a Supreme Court decision that said the manner
in which the tax was set-up had been illegal. He said the 77 cities and
19 counties that now collect the tax have done so since that Supreme Court decision
-- and the issue was put to a vote. Mayor Hindman thought the primary reason
the tax is supported is because of the fairness to the local merchants. A
local use tax does not apply to the typical person who goes out and orders from
a catalog as there is a $2,000 floor on it; however, there are businesses that
buy large quantities of merchandise for much more than $2,000. He said
the community has a good many local suppliers who have to compete with the out
of state sellers. If Columbia does not enact such a tax, Mayor Hindman
said the City would be putting our local suppliers at a disadvantage.
Mr. Coffman said the Mayor's points are well-taken, and for
those members of the public who have questions or concerns about the City's spending
priorities, he reminded them that the Council is about to embark on the annual
budget process. He noted this is an open process and allows for public
input at the public hearings.
B250-98, as amended, was given third reading with the vote
recorded as follows: VOTING YES: COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT,
CAMPBELL. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: JANKU, KRUSE. Bill
declared enacted, reading as follows:
B254-98 Authorizing an agreement with JJS
Partnership for the donation of Lot 326 of Belmont Village, Plat 11
for
use as a greenbelt.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck reminded the Council they had discussed this issue
previously in the meeting. This would provide for the agreement dictating
the condition of land after development occurs.
B254-98 was given third reading with the vote recorded as
follows: VOTING YES: COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL. VOTING
NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: JANKU, KRUSE. Bill declared enacted,
reading as follows:
CONSENT AGENDA
The following bills were given second reading and the resolutions
were read by the Clerk.
B230-98 Approving the final plat of Springdale
Estates, Plat No. 7.
B231-98 Approving the final plat of K-Mart
Subdivision.
B234-98 Vacating a sanitary sewer easement
located within the proposed Springdale Estates Subdivision, Plat
No.
6.
B235-98 Assessing a special tax for abatement
of a weed nuisance on property located at 601 Jackson Street.
B237-98 Accepting grants from the Missouri
Arts Council; appropriating funds.
B240-98 Confirming the contract for construction
of water mains along State Highway 763 North.
B241-98 Confirming the contract for water main
project on Blue Ridge Road and Northland Drive; appropriating
funds.
B242-98 Accepting conveyances for water, electric
and utility purposes.
B244-98 Authorizing an amendment to the engineering
services agreement with Shafer, Kline & Warren for
design
of water main; appropriating funds.
B245-98 Authorizing the acquisition of easements
necessary to relocate sanitary sewers on Route B.
B246-98 Authorizing the acquisition of easements
necessary for the construction of the Glen Eagle Drive
drainage
improvement project.
B253-98 Authorizing an amendment to the contract
with the Missouri Department of Health for the Hepatitis A
immunization
program; appropriating funds.
R165-98 Setting a public hearing: construction
of an 8-inch water main serving Stoneridge Estates, Plats 1 and 2;
providing
for differential payment.
R166-98 Setting a public hearing: construction
of an 8-inch water main serving Garden City, Plat 8; providing for
differential
payment.
R167-98 Authorizing an agreement with the Columbia
Area Archers Club and Missouri Department of
Conservation
for the management of the American Legion archery range.
R168-98 Authorizing an agreement with the Missouri
Department of Health for certain breast and cervical
cancer
services.
The bills were given third reading and the resolutions were read with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: JANKU, KRUSE. Bills declared enacted and resolutions declared adopted, reading as follows:
NEW BUSINESS
R169-98 Authorizing an agreement with GTE for
lease of spaces at Sixth and Cherry parking structure.
The resolution was read by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck said this would provide for a two year agreement
for 25 parking spaces, at $490 per year, at the Sixth and Cherry parking garage.
The vote on R169-98 was recorded as follows: VOTING
YES: HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSTAINING: COFFMAN. ABSENT: JANKU,
KRUSE. Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:
The following bills were introduced by the Mayor, unless otherwise indicated, and all were given first reading:
B255-98 Authorizing construction of an 8-inch
water main to serve Stoneridge Estates, Plats 1 and 2; providing
payment
for differential costs; appropriating funds.
B256-98 Authorizing construction of an 8-inch
water main to serve Garden City, Plat 8; providing payment for
differential
costs; appropriating funds.
B257-98 Accepting conveyances for water utility
and water and electric purposes.
B258-98 Authorizing a customer transfer agreement
with Public Water Supply District #4; appropriating funds.
B259-98 Approving the final plat of Heritage
Meadows, Plat No. 5.
B260-98 Approving the final plat of Hinkson
Ridge, Plat No. 1.
B261-98 Vacating a sanitary sewer easement
located within the proposed Springdale Estates Subdivision, Plat
No.
7.
B262-98 Confirming the contract for sidewalk
construction on West Broadway and Smiley lane; appropriating
funds.
B263-98 Amending Chapter 14 of the City Code
to establish rates for the Sixth and Cherry parking garage.
B264-98 Amending Chapter 2 of the City Code
relating to meetings; records and votes of public governmental
bodies.
B265-98 Amending Chapter 2 of the City Code
to reestablish a procedure to disclose potential conflicts of
interest
and substantial interests for certain city officials.
B266-98 Amending Chapter 14 of the City Code
relating to motor vehicle safety belts.
B267-98 Extending the moratorium on additional
live adult entertainment businesses.
B268-98 Appropriating funds for the purchase
of police equipment.
B269-98 Authorizing Percent for Art contracts
with Ron Fondaw and Mark LaMair for public art work.
REPORTS AND PETITIONS
(A) Transfer of Funds Request.
Report accepted.
(B) Volunteer Quarterly Report.
Mr. Beck commented that the report indicates 42,130 volunteer
hours were contributed to the City, and the value of those hours is estimated
to be $555,500. He noted volunteers help to conserve the City's resources
to allow funding for other projects.
Mayor Hindman said he is proud of the program. He said
the trend to volunteer is increasing and the potential of the program is enormous.
(C) Pedestrian Accommodations at Chapel Hill
and Forum Boulevard.
Mr. Beck noted two alternatives; one costing about $9,500
and the other about $82,000.
Mayor Hindman made a motion that a public hearing be set. 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 commission:
Historic Preservation Commission
Bartok, Peter J., 321 W. Burnam, Ward 5 - Real Estate - term to expire 9/1/99
Bay, Chuck, 2616 Ridgefield, Ward 4 - term to expire 9/1/00
Crawford, Bill T., 802 S. Edgewood, Ward 4 - term to expire 9/1/01
Olson, Greg A., 217 W. Broadway, Apt. E18, Ward 1 - term to expire 9/1/99
Pape, Brian J., 29 E. Stewart - Ward 4 - term to expire 9/1/01
Sheals, Debbie, 406 W. Broadway - Ward 4 - Hist. Pres. - term to expire 9/1/00
Snider, Becky L., 1008 Sunset, Ward 4 - term to expire 9/1/01
COMMENTS OF THE COUNCIL, STAFF, AND PUBLIC
Regarding Route B construction (from 63 to Paris Road), Mrs.
Crockett said five neighborhood associations met recently and decided there is
a need for pedestrian crosswalks in the area, especially at the intersections
of Brown Station Road, Vandiver, and Whitegate. She said they would also
like bike lanes and wheel chair accessibility on Route B. Mrs. Crockett
told the group there would be a problem providing bike lanes and wheelchair accessibility
at the bridge over the Business Loop. She wondered if there would be another
public hearing where these people can express their concerns. Mr. Patterson
said one meeting had already been held and he was not sure there would be any
more before the actual bidding. He explained that the Highway Department
had the public hearing for the project several years ago, and it was at that
time the City indicated what we were willing to pay for the sidewalks along the
east side of Route B. He reported staff could relay the request to the
Highway Department in letter form. Mrs. Crockett asked that he do that,
and also asked for a report so she could forward this information to the neighborhood
associations. Regarding bike lanes, Mr. Patterson said there would be wide
shoulders on the roadway which would accommodate that purpose. Mrs. Crockett
asked if they would be striped. Mr. Patterson said the striping request
could also be included in the letter. Mrs. Crockett asked if there would
be a button for the pedestrians to press in order to cross safely. Mr.
Patterson said he would not want to give false hope, but that request could be
made also.
Regarding the Mexico Gravel Road situation at Hinkson Creek
and then east to Route PP, Mrs. Crockett said the residents are concerned that
it is narrow and frequently traveled by cement trucks and dump trucks, and shortly
there will be school buses as well. She reported this area had been annexed
in 1969, and the road had never been brought up to City specifications. She
asked how soon the street could be scheduled for improvements. Mr. Patterson
explained that the street division had been in contact with residents in the
area. He said staff plans some maintenance on the road, but as far as getting
it to an improved status, he said that was something the Council would have to
put in the CIP as a project with a specified priority with identified funding. Mr.
Patterson reported that Mexico Gravel Road is not currently in the five-year
program for improvements, but that did not mean that it could not be added if
the Council directs it and funding is available. Mrs. Crockett asked what
needed to be done to get it in the CIP. Mr. Beck thought a traffic count
from Public Works is necessary so as to supply more specific information in order
to compare it with some of the other roads of similar nature. Mr. Patterson
said staff planned to conduct a traffic count this fall.
Mrs. Crockett said the residents living on Mexico Gravel are
still on septic tanks, and are wanting to connect to a sewer system. She
said they had been working with the City, but are not getting very far. She
asked for a report. Mr. Patterson said staff has previously sent reports
to the Council on the situation, and are currently working on an updated report. He
said the estimated expense of the sewer system was such that the property owners
could not make a unified decision to proceed.
Mrs. Crockett asked Chief Botsford to check on a car that
had been sitting on I-70, just east of the Stadium exit.
Regarding rebuilding sidewalks, Mr. Campbell said the sidewalk
on Broadway, between McBaine and West Boulevard, was in very bad condition. He
asked the staff for a specific plan to get it rebuilt.
Mr. Coffman asked about any developments on the Stadium/Audubon/East
Pointe intersection. Mr. Patterson said staff met last week with the Highway
Department and the developer. He said right now they are waiting for an
estimate from the developer as to what pedestrian facilities would add to the
project cost. He said when this information is obtained, a report will
be forwarded to the Council for direction on whether to proceed with the additional
improvements. Mr. Coffman asked if the developer had indicated when this
information will be submitted to the City. Mr. Patterson said the developer
reported a cost estimate will be forwarded to the City within a week to ten days. Mr.
Coffman said he was appreciative of Mr. Patterson's work on the project.
Mayor Hindman said he had received some calls about the street
crossings on Route B. He suggested passage of a resolution stating the
Council's desire to have crossings incorporated as part of the project. He
thought it would be disastrous if Route B does not have pedestrian crossings
as it would separate the neighborhoods completely and would not be good for the
community. Mrs. Crockett added that there are a lot of children that need
to cross Route B to get to the pool and the park in the summer. Mayor Hindman
asked that a resolution be prepared. He felt the Highway Department would
be more inclined to respect the City's wishes if there is a policy stating such. Mayor
Hindman would also like to see a policy identifying major intersections and that
there should be no more "X" amount of distance between pedestrian crossings. He
would like the staff to submit the policy to the Highway Department.
Mayor Hindman asked about the status of a pedestrian handicapped
crossing at Business Loop 70 and Garth by Ellis Fischel Hospital. He said
there are no pedestrian crossings at Garth or the Business Loop. Mr. Beck
thought there is the handicapped crossing, but there is only a sidewalk that
goes north on Garth. He said he spoke to the University about the possibility
of building a sidewalk westward on the north side of the Business Loop, at least
to the driveway where people would cross Garth. He said the University
was going to look at the possibility. Mayor Hindman said he did not think
there was a pedestrian crossing at this location. Mr. Beck said he would
check into it. Mr. Patterson asked if the Mayor was referring to pedestrian
actuated signals. Mayor Hindman replied he did not know what type of crossing
to should be, but whatever is installed needs to be something handicapped people
can use. Mr. Patterson said there is a crosswalk at this location, and
he thought it had been moved back. Mayor Hindman knew the Disabilities
Commission has asked for the crossing, and he is just inquiring about the status. Mr.
Beck said he look into the matter.
Mayor Hindman said the Council had discussions relating to
a policy regarding sidewalks along unimproved streets, and the situation on platted
but not yet developed areas. He asked if there is a work session planned
on these issues. Mr. Patterson thought the Council had decided that the
staff would make a more aggressive enforcement of existing ordinances with performance
contracts, and that Mr. Boeckmann had been working on a revised performance agreement. He
said it had been agreed if property is already platted, but not developed, the
City would go back in with a three year term on the property and require walks
to be built by tax bill. Mayor Hindman asked if that is also true on commercial
areas. Mr. Patterson said it would apply anywhere sidewalks are required
as part of the development at the time of platting. In the situations of
exemption from the policy, walks would be installed in accordance with the policy
resolution that stipulates sidewalks would either be paid for by the City or
by tax bill. Mayor Hindman said he is concerned because so many plats are
being submitted on unimproved streets. Mr. Patterson explained the Council
will have to grant a variance to allow sidewalks not to be constructed on unimproved
streets, or the walk will have to be built within three years. Mayor Hindman
asked that the present four foot sidewalk requirement be revisited. Mr.
Patterson said there is a report being prepared for the Council on that issue.
Mayor Hindman asked if there was any news on the taxi situation. Mr.
Campbell said there have been reports in the paper regarding a four to six week
delay before licensing approval is acquired. He asked if that was accurate
and if there needed to be some follow-up to determine if the process needs to
be streamlined or can be shortened by any means. Chief Botsford said the
only involvement by the Police Department relates to background checks. He
reported assuming there are not ten requests a day for such, it does not take
the police department more than a day to process these. Mr. Beck said he
will have a report forwarded to the Council on the situation.
Mrs. Crockett asked what kind of legislation is on the books
regarding 18 wheelers parking on residential, arterial, or collector streets. Mr.
Patterson reported the City has an ordinance that prevents vehicles from parking
for more than 24 hours at a time anywhere within the City. Otherwise, parking
can be prohibited by ordinance for specific streets. Mrs. Crockett asked
if the Council could institute a blanket ordinance on all residential streets. Mr.
Patterson thought the areas needed to be specifically identified. Mr. Boeckmann
said an ordinance identifying streets with restricted parking is the way it has
been always handled, but he thought the City had just been addressing it problem
by problem. He said an ordinance could probably be drafted that would prohibit
parking on a certain category of street, although there are possibly problems
associated with this that they are not aware of at the moment. Mr. Patterson
said the City has generally taken the position that if there is a problem, staff
will try to address it. Mrs. Crockett said there is a gentlemen in the
audience she had spoken with at the last meeting who is experiencing problems
on Sylvan Lane. She explained an 18 wheeler is parking on the street at
all times of the day, and when it is parked near the corner of Sylvan and Hendrix,
it causes sight problems. Mr. Patterson suggested that the traffic engineer
evaluate the situation. Mayor Hindman observed it is not pleasant to look
out one's window and see an 18 wheeler sitting in front of their home.
Tony Davis, 4655 Rock Quarry Road, spoke on an earlier issue
regarding the development of Cambridge Place. He is concerned about the
stormwater runoff situation and the two culverts located just below the new development. Mr.
Davis stated residents are aware that the situation is not a major priority or
budget issue as far as the City is concerned, but though perhaps it should be. He
noted since the residents supported the project, as did the City, they thought
staff should be directed to make even modest improvements to the first culvert. Mr.
Davis said residents would like to see the culvert improved, the road widened
a bit, and put some rock in the area that is going to wash out before or in conjunction
with the construction on the project.
Mr. Coffman said the Council had previously learned this evening
that the stormwater problem should not get any worse, and that this issue should
be addressed through the stormwater utility. He ultimately supports the
project and Mr. Davis' request and would like to see the problem addressed.
Ms. Coble said the City is about to begin budget hearings
and conduct work sessions in which the Council will review the capital improvement
budgets and how the different needs are prioritized under the stormwater utility. She
said that would be an appropriate time to discuss this issue.
Mayor Hindman reported the stormwater problems on Rock Quarry
road will be noted, and the Council will review the issue at the time of the
capital improvements and stormwater discussions.
Greg Ahrens, 1504 Sylvan Lane, spoke about the Route B expansion
and the bridge over the Business Loop. He observed the project does not
include widening the bridge at this location. He reported residents in
no way want to delay the project, but the bridge should be safe for pedestrians,
bicyclists, and people who use wheelchairs. He said the way the bridge
is constructed now, he often sees people trying to walk across it and it is very
perilous. Mr. Ahrens said he had trouble understanding why a road would
be widened to five lanes to then come down to a bridge that is two lanes. He
wondered how the five lanes would merge suddenly into two lanes. He understood
the last public hearing on the project was held in 1990, and since then there
have been other funds and other ideas available such as ISTEA landscaping money,
and state and bicycle pedestrian safety money. Mr. Ahrens thought that
many of the presentations lately outlined different options and ideas that were
not available at the time this project was approved. He asked if there
could possibly be a staff report on the issue and what funds the City could possibly
apply for as far as the monies he had mentioned. He also wanted to hear
ideas about how the bridge could be widened and the pedestrian access to Old
63. In addition, Mr. Ahrens inquired how this road might eventually be
made accessible for people in wheelchairs. Mr. Ahrens pointed out that
Services for Independent Living would soon have a new facility on Towne Drive,
and these individuals would need access.
Ms. Coble asked if this issue is also something the Council
could address through the budget process. Mr. Patterson noted that the
subject of the bridge has come up more than once, and the Highway Department
simply denied the funds to replace the bridge at this time. He said the
City would have to come up with the funding in order to have the bridge replaced. Addressing
the other amenities Mr. Ahrens referred to, Mr. Patterson stated staff prepared
a report identifying landscaping possibilities along the route. He said
one of the big problems is the lack of room in the corridor as the railroad would
be very close to the expanded highway. Therefore, Mr. Patterson explained
options are quite limited with regard to making any significant changes to the
project at this time.
Mayor Hindman said he had been wondering about the pedestrian
ability to cross Business Loop 70, and probably I-70 as well. He asked
if somehow the two bridges could be used to suspend something down the middle
between them. Mr. Patterson asked if he was referring to the railroad bridge
and the highway bridge. Mayor Hindman said he was, just on the one side. He
reported he has seen many bridges that were cantilevered. Mr. Patterson
thought staff had submitted a report on what the costs would be for such a project. He
said staff had considered several options, but money was always the problem. Mayor
Hindman said it did not seem right that pedestrians cannot get across the bridge,
and agreed with the speaker in this regard. Mayor Hindman stated that the
bridge is as much a part of the project as the road improvements. He suggested
that the old reports be reviewed again. Mr. Beck reported the state wants
to donate Ammonette Street, as well as quite a few other streets in the community,
to the City.
Mr. Beck noted at the previous Council meeting there had been
a question about paratransit service and the dialysis clinic. He read from
a report that the City is restricted to space available service since the clinic
is located outside of the quarter mile zone from a fixed route. He noted
there are no plans to expand the fixed route service this year, and any changes
will require budget adjustment. Mr. Beck stated presently there are two
riders that go to the clinic three times a week. The report indicated no
one has ever been denied a ride; however, certain times of the day the service
is more readily available than others. Mr. Beck said he would send the
Council a copy of the report.
The meeting adjourned at 9:30 p.m.
Respectfully
submitted,
Penny
St. Romaine
City
Clerk
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