INTRODUCTORY
The City Council of the City of Columbia, Missouri met for
a regular meeting at 7:00 p.m., on Monday, July 17, 2000, in the Council Chamber
of the City of Columbia, Missouri. The roll was taken with the following results:
Council members JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CROCKETT, and CAMPBELL
were present. The City Manager, City Counselor, City Clerk, and various Department
Heads were also present.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes of the regular meeting of July 5, 2000, as well
as the minutes of the special meeting of July 10, 2000, were approved unanimously
by voice vote on a motion made by Mr. Campbell and a second by Mrs. Crockett.
APPROVAL AND ADJUSTMENT OF AGENDA INCLUDING CONSENT AGENDA
Mayor Hindman noted that R142-00 would be added under New
Business and that Report B would be added under Reports and Petitions.
Upon his request, Mr. Campbell made the motion that Mr. Coffman
be allowed to abstain from voting on R142-00 and B204-00. The motion was seconded
by Mr. John and approved unanimously by voice vote.
The agenda, as amended, including the Consent Agenda, was
approved unanimously by voice vote on a motion made by Mr. Janku and a second
by Mrs. Crockett.
SPECIAL ITEMS
None.
SCHEDULED PUBLIC COMMENTS
None.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
B201-00 Authorizing construction of
water main serving Arcadia Subdivision, Plat 6; authorizing payment of
differential
costs; appropriating funds.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained that this request is in accordance with
City policy. He noted the differential cost being paid out of Water and Light
funds to be approximately $16,500 for a 12-inch rather than 8-inch water line.
Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
There being no comments, Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
B201-00 was given third reading with the vote recorded as
follows: VOTING YES: JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL.
VOTING NO: NO ONE. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
B202-00 Calling for bids for the water
main relocation for the Route AC highway project; appropriating funds.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck noted that this substantial project is being done
in conjunction with construction of the new AC.
Mr. Malon explained that when the Route AC project was first
proposed, his department had been told the only water main relocation necessary
was around the intersection of Nifong and Providence. Since that time, the Highway
Department discovered the main would have to be moved in front of the entire
commercial frontage area beginning at Providence Road east along Route AC. Mr.
Malon stated that Instead of digging up the water main and relocating it, staff
proposes installing a new water main and then the current main would be abandoned.
He note the project will be paid out of Water and Light funds.
Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
There being no comments, Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
B202-00 was given third reading with the vote recorded as
follows: VOTING YES: JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL.
VOTING NO: NO ONE. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
B206-00 Rezoning property located on
the east side of Paris Road, between Mexico Gravel Road and U.S.
Highway
63 from M-C to C-P; approving the Northpoint Athletic Club C-P Development
Plan.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained that this tract consists of about 3.5 acres
located in northeast Columbia. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended
approval of the request with the uses being limited to those shown. In addition,
the Commission asked that 52 of the 152 required parking spaces be shown as future
parking on the plan.
Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
Edward Schoennoehl, 4816 A Schooner Road, co-owner of Northpoint
Athletic Club, offered to answer any questions.
Mayor Hindman asked if he understood correctly that the free
standing sign would be limited to 21 feet in height. Mr. Schoennoehl said that
was correct. Mayor Hindman asked about the parking situation. Mr. Schoennoehl
indicated they wanted to keep the amount of parking that is required by ordinance.
He explained the Commission had asked that the number be reduced in order to
increase the amount of green space with the thought that parking could be added
later when needed. After reviewing parking with some of the other clubs, it was
decided they would rather keep the 152 parking spaces.
Mr. Janku indicated that he spoke to the project engineer
about the possibility of providing a tie-in from the City sidewalk so pedestrians
would not have to walk in the driveway to access the facility. Mr. Schoennoehl
responded that is something that could be accomplished, but a lot of pedestrian
traffic coming off of Route B is not anticipated. He commented that could be
addressed if it becomes a problem. Mr. Janku believed it should be part of the
plan. Mr. Schoennoehl said there would be no problem with installing a sidewalk
next to the driveway.
Aaron Sauer, Septagon Construction, reported the goal regarding
the sidewalk would be to connect the walking trail around the facility to the
sidewalk with a similar type surface. From a cost standpoint, he said it is a
pretty good distance from the building down to the sidewalk. He said the surface
would probably be pea gravel or a mulch-type surface. Mr. Janku thought that
to be reasonable.
Mr. Beck asked if there was a Highway Department standard
relating to the driveway or walkway material. Mr. Patterson related there are
for driveways, but he was not certain about walkways.
Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
Mr. Janku made the motion that the plan be amended to include
a pedestrian walkway from the City sidewalk on Route B up to the driveway to
the facility of materials similar to what they are using on the walking trail
unless the State requires otherwise. The motion was seconded by Mr. John and
approved unanimously by voice vote.
Mr. John questioned the 152 parking spaces. It was decided
the plan shows 152 spaces and these would remain on the plan.
Mr. Coffman asked if the landscaping was sufficient. Mr. Bondra
said it had been reviewed and approved by the City's Arborist. Mrs. Crockett
noted that the parking being shown is only what the ordinance requires.
B206-00, as amended, was given third reading with the vote
recorded as follows: VOTING YES: JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CROCKETT,
CAMPBELL. VOTING NO: NO ONE. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
OLD BUSINESS
PR134-00 Establishing a policy and standards
for pedestrian crossings.
PR135-00 Establishing a policy on requests
for variances to requirements for construction of sidewalks along
unimproved
streets.
Mayor Hindman noted a discussion about tabling these two policy
resolutions until the next meeting in order to discuss them further at a work
session.
Mrs. Crockett made the motion that PR134-00 and PR135-00 be
tabled to the August 7, 2000, meeting. The motion was seconded by Ms. Crayton
and approved unanimously by voice vote.
B207-00 Approving the final plat of
Pratt's Subdivision, Plat 2, a replat of part of Pratt's Addition.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Bondra explained that the purpose of this replat would
combine several platted lots into one lot. The applicants propose to raze the
two houses on the easternmost part of the property that fronts on Wilson Avenue
to construct a parking lot for the fraternity and annex building. Mr. Bondra
reported that the subdivision regulations were amended a few years ago to require
that property be replatted and reconfigured into one lot when a situation such
as this occurs. He noted that the plat meets all subdivision regulation requirements
and added that the applicants will be dedicating additional right of way for
corner truncation.
Tim Reed, a Land Surveyor with Engineering Surveys and Services,
1113 Fay Street, explained that additional parking has been necessitated by the
fact that the Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity is being torn down and rebuilt. He said
the Beta's had a parking agreement with Alpha Gamma Rho which will be terminated
as a result of their project.
Mr. Reed remarked that his firm is designing the parking lot.
He noted there have been several meetings with the East Campus Neighborhood Association.
At this point, he stated the group is not happy with some aspects of the plan.
Mr. Reed explained the plan has yet to be submitted to the Public Works Department,
and the applicants requested this replat in order to comply with City provisions
that all parking be on their lot.
Mr. Coffman asked if Mr. Reed was suggesting there would be
an opportunity for citizens to provide input on the plat when it is submitted
to Public Works. Mr. Reed replied that once the replat is approved, it would
be between the applicants and the Public Works Department. He noted the applicants
will comply with all of the provisions of the landscaping and zoning ordinances.
Mr. Coffman acknowledged that he was appreciative of their efforts in meeting
with members of the East Campus Neighborhood group. He pointed out residents
are still concerned about the two access points onto Wilson Avenue in addition
to the landscaping issue. Mr. Reed said the Beta's are willing to do whatever
landscaping satisfies the neighborhood. He explained they have already gone above
and beyond the requirements in that they are placing a fence along the north
and east property line and providing substantial landscaping. Furthermore, because
more right of way is being dedicated along Wilson, there is room for additional
landscaping. Mr. Coffman asked about the fence. Mr. Reed responded it will be
a wooden, privacy-type fence.
Regarding the entrance concerns, Mr. Reed explained that the
Neighborhood Association does not want another entrance onto Wilson; however,
in order to create a well-functioning parking lot, he could not recommend to
the fraternity that it have only one access point. He indicated several configurations
for the new lot were considered and it was thought the current design would be
the most functional. Mr. Coffman asked about retention of trees on the site.
Mr. Reed said a few in the corners would be saved, in addition to some larger
ones in the northwest corner that will remain where some steps into the existing
lot are planned.
Janet Hammen, 1416 Wilson, spoke as Chair of the East Campus
Neighborhood Association. She was appreciative of the willingness of the Beta
representatives to discuss this plan with residents. She commented they have
had valuable discussions, but she thought that time ran out before they could
actually reach an agreement on the project. Ms. Hammen reported that residents
have been given assurances that the Beta's will not encroach any further into
the neighborhood to the east of the current property lines after obtaining the
two lots. She explained they have also been assured that the landscaping will
be maintained throughout the years. Ms. Hammen noted that the current plans,
which will destroy two houses in the National Historic District, call for a stand-alone
parking lot. From the street, she said the lot will not look connected to the
fraternity in any way and residents have expressed their fear of a precedence
for replatting and surface parking lots in the neighborhood. Ms. Hammen indicated
this is not a model they would like to have in their neighborhood.
Ms. Hammen reported the recommendation of the Neighborhood
Association is that the fraternity use the existing Wilson Avenue driveway for
access to the proposed parking lot. She said the benefits of one driveway will
be to tie the two lots together so it is obvious that it is part of the Beta
Fraternity. She commented the drive from Wilson Avenue could be kept one-way
so the traffic will go out onto College as it does now. In addition, the Neighborhood
Association prefers that a solid landscaping barrier on the Wilson Avenue side
of the lot be established so as to lessen the visual ugliness of another surface
parking lot. That would cause the retaining wall and fencing to be pushed back
the width of a driveway, at least 24 feet, and will not look as objectionable
from the street. Ms. Hammen distributed photos depicting the way the proposal
would look as requested. She pointed out that she had learned that the proposed
lot could be regraded to accommodate a safe entrance using the current parking
lot driveway. She noted only two parking spaces would be lost from the proposed
plan and three or four from the existing lot. Ms. Hammen asked the Council to
table the issue to allow for further discussion between the applicant and the
Neighborhood Association.
Laurie Hines, 1608 Wilson, Secretary-Treasurer of the neighborhood
association, reiterated her concern pertaining to the aesthetics of this proposal.
She asked the Council to reconsider the proposed design so that the parking lot
would not be quite so obvious. Ms. Hines noted other concerns relating to the
proposed two accesses points onto Wilson.
Dave Knight, an attorney with offices 1203 W. Broadway, spoke
on behalf of the Beta Fraternity. Mr. Knight reported the applicants want to
accommodate the neighborhood and have done everything they can economically.
He explained for what is being paid for the old houses, the proposed project
is costing approximately $14,000 per parking space. If six spaces are lot, the
cost becomes almost $20,000 per space. Mr. Knight stated if this replat is approved,
there are no other plans to acquire other property that would encroach into the
area. He remarked that the applicant will not be able to proceed with the project
without the two access points on Wilson Avenue and the 32 parking spaces due
to the cost of deviating from such.
Mr. Coffman appreciated that the Beta's do not have plans
to encroach any further to the east. He asked whether this could be put in writing.
Mr. Knight questioned if the current Council could legally bind a subsequent
Council. He gave his assurance that it is not the applicant's intention to encroach
any further.
Mr. Campbell asked about the possibility of placing a row
of evergreens along the parking lot to shield it from the street. Mr. Knight
responded if that is a feasible alternative, they would be happy to do so.
Mr. Coffman asked if there was any willingness to negotiate
further with the neighborhood. Mr. Knight indicated there have been ongoing discussions
with the sellers regarding this project since January. He did not think they
could keep them waiting any longer. Mr. Knight explained if this replat is not
approved, the sellers will have to work on getting the two properties rented
for the students in the fall. In addition, the Beta's will need to make alternative
parking arrangements for their residents.
Bill Rotts, an attorney with offices at 16 N. Eighth, spoke
on behalf of the property owners. He agreed with Mr. Knight regarding their position.
Mr. Rotts stated the properties are about 50% rented right now, as opposed to
100%, because they have not entered into anything other than month to month leases
with the expectation that the houses will soon be razed. He believed the loss
of these two homes would increase the integrity of the historic East Campus neighborhood
because they are not particularly aesthetically pleasing or salvageable buildings.
He noted one of the houses has a bulging back wall that needs considerable structural
work to bring it up to satisfactory compliance with code, and the other needs
an overall remodel in order to improve its appearance.
Mr. John asked whether parking lots in this particular zoning
district requires screening. Mr. Patterson replied where parking abuts a residential
area it has to be screened. Mr. John noted the Beta House is not remodeling or
doing anything with either of the buildings that would require permits.
Mr. Boeckmann reminded the Council that they are being asked
to approve a subdivision, not a plan.
Mr. Coffman made a motion that B207-00 be tabled to give both
parties more time to negotiate. His motion died for lack of a second.
B207-00 was given third reading with the vote recorded as
follows: VOTING YES: JOHN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL. VOTING
NO: COFFMAN. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
B205-00 Vacating a sewer right-of-way
located within Pratt's Addition.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck noted that staff had recommended approval of this
vacation.
B205-00 was given third reading with the vote recorded as
follows: VOTING YES: JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL.
VOTING NO: NO ONE. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
B213-00 Authorizing the acquisition
of easements to construct the Sunflower Street improvement project.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained that a lengthy report was included in the
Council packet which described where the driveways would not be built. Staff
recommended approval.
B213-00 was given third reading with the vote recorded as
follows: VOTING YES: JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL.
VOTING NO: NO ONE. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
CONSENT AGENDA
The following bills were given second reading and the resolutions
were read by the Clerk.
B169-00 Approving the final plat of
Rockbridge Subdivision, Plat No. 13; authorizing a performance contract.
B203-00 Accepting easements for water
utility purposes.
B204-00 Approving a right of use permit
with Ameren UE for gas main installation at Grindstone Substation.
B208-00 Approving the final plat of
Northpoint Subdivision; authorizing a performance contract.
B209-00 Levying and assessing special
assessments for abatement of nuisances.
B210-00 Accepting a grant from the Missouri
Department of Public Safety; appropriating funds.
B211-00 Authorizing agreements with
the Columbia School District for the development of Field Elementary
School
and Benton Elementary School playgrounds.
B212-00 Approving Change Order No. 1
to the contract with N-J Wilson Contracting related to the Scott
Boulevard
Improvement project; authorizing an agreement with Consolidated Public Water
Supply
District
No. 1.
B214-00 Confirming the contract of Steve & Associates,
Inc. for the construction of the Parkade Heights/Creasy
Springs
Road drainage improvement project; appropriating funds.
B215-00 Confirming the contract of Don
Schnieders Excavating, Inc. for construction of sidewalks along sections
of
Curt Drive, Grant Lane, Bethel Road, Conley Road, Brickton Road, Trimble
Road, Grampian Drive
and
LaRail Drive; appropriating funds.
R138-00 Authorizing the City manager
to submit a proposal to the State of Missouri for the FY 2001 maternal
child
health grant program.
The bills were given third reading and the resolutions
were read with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: JOHN, COFFMAN (except
on B204-00 on which he abstained), HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL.
VOTING NO: NO ONE. Bills declared enacted and resolutions declared adopted,
reading as follows:
NEW BUSINESS
R139-00 Terminating an adopt-a-spot
agreement with the Heart of Missouri Master Gardeners and authorizing
an
agreement with the Arthritis Foundation.
The resolution was read by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained that this adopt-a-spot is located on Forum
Boulevard.
Comments were called for with none received.
The vote on R139-00 was recorded as follows: VOTING YES: JOHN,
COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL. VOTING NO: NO ONE. Resolution
declared adopted, reading as follows:
R140-00 Reimbursement from the Designated
Loan Fund for expenditures for the community recreation center,
fire
station and equipment and park improvements.
The resolution was read by the Clerk.
Ms. Fleming explained that IRS regulations state that if City's
reimburse themselves out of bond proceeds, a resolution of intent must be adopted.
She indicated the City would not have to pay arbitrage on the expenditures when
special obligation bonds are issued. Ms. Fleming explained these bonds will be
issued sometime within the next year depending upon the market conditions.
The vote on R140-00 was recorded as follows: VOTING YES: JOHN,
COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL. VOTING NO: NO ONE. Resolution
declared adopted, reading as follows:
R141-00 Authorizing an agreement with
the Curators of the University of Missouri for a joint research project
to
evaluate
settlement in the landfill.
The resolution was read by the Clerk.
Mr. Patterson explained that this is a continuation of a project
that was initiated last year with the University. The objective is to develop
models to more accurately predict the capacity of the landfill through settlement
and compression of the materials over a period of time. He was hopeful the project
would continue as part of the City's partnership in research with the University.
The vote on R141-00 was recorded as follows: VOTING YES: JOHN,
COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL. VOTING NO: NO ONE. Resolution
declared adopted, reading as follows:
R142-00 Authorizing work with energy
companies in developing proposals for a gas turbine electric generation
facility
at the Bolstad Substation site.
The resolution was read by the Clerk.
Mr. Malon explained the location of the Bolstad Substation
to be near the City landfill behind the ETI Pipe Plant. He added that it appears
to be an appropriate location for a project such as this.
In the last several months, Mr. Malon reported that several
entities have explored the concept in developing the Bolstad property for the
installation of gas turbines. He noted the City's need for peaking capacity as
well. It is proposed that some sort of joint project with interested parties
could be worked out.
Mr. Malon explained gas turbines are generators that are driven
by a turbine similar to a jet engine on an aircraft. He said it is a packaged
unit that burns natural gas. The units are prepackaged, set on a foundation,
and have sound attenuation. Generally, Mr. Malon indicated these units are run
during peak loads for short periods of time -- which in our case would be in
the summer time on very hot days.
Mr. Malon remarked there is still a lot of work to be done
to determine if these turbines would be feasible and economic, as well as whether
or not there is a possibility of a joint project. He explained that before proceeding
any further, he wanted the Council advised of the project. Mr. Malon noted that
Aquilla Power Company sent a letter of interest for this proposed project last
week. In addition, he received verbal notice that a similar letter is forthcoming
from Ameren UE.
Mr. Malon reported that adoption of the resolution would allow
staff to begin looking for expert assistance to begin developing the information
and determining what position the City should take. He indicated his department
would keep the Council and the Water and Light Advisory Board informed of their
findings. Mr. Malon pointed out that deregulation has not been approved in Missouri;
however, staff believed the City will be needing additional peaking capacity
regardless of whether or not it occurs.
The vote on R142-00 was recorded as follows: VOTING YES: JOHN,
HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSTAINING: COFFMAN.
Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:
The following bills were introduced by the Mayor, unless otherwise indicated, and all were given first reading:
B216-00 Amending Chapter 14 of the
Code to allow the rental of a parking meter hood for the Municipal Court
bailiff
to transfer inmates.
B217-00 Amending Chapter 14 of the Code
to restrict parking on the south side of Clarkson Road.
B218-00 Amending the contract with the
State of Missouri regarding the WIC program; appropriating funds.
B219-00 Accepting grant of easements
for water and electric purposes.
B220-00 Changing the street name of "White
Tiger Lane" to "White Tiger Street."
B221-00 Vacating a drainage easement
within Spencer's Crest Subdivision, Plat 1.
B222-00 Approving the engineer's final
report for the Worley Street and Again Street West drainage project.
B223-00 Approving engineer's final report;
accepting a deed of dedication; authorizing payment of differential
costs
for a water main serving Quail Creek, Plat 1.
B224-00 Appropriating funds for capital
improvement projects.
REPORTS AND PETITIONS
A) Intra-Departmental Transfer of Funds
Report accepted.
B) Cable Committee Report.
Mr. Coffman reported that the Cable Committee has been studying
the Internet open access issue for several months. He noted this is something
that has been initiated in other cities whereby cable companies are not allowed
to enter into an exclusive contract with any one Internet service provider. This
allows customers to have a choice from many providers. Mr. Coffman indicated
the ordinances are intended to promote competition. He explained the Committee
had received a tremendous amount of written comments and also held a public hearing.
Mr. Coffman reported the Committee unanimously recommends that the City should
not pursue the issue at this time. He stated the Committee does not perceive
that competition for high speed Internet access is a problem in Columbia. Secondly,
he remarked there is a serious legal uncertainty about the whole issue. Mr. Coffman
commented that public courts have struck down an ordinance passed by Portland,
Oregon, and while it does not affect our area, it seems to be the direction of
things to come. In addition, he spoke about the ever changing technology of this
industry. The recommendation was that nothing be done at this time.
Mr. Campbell said another motivating factor had been the possibility
of a franchise renewal due to a name transfer. It had been discussed in the media
that Charter and AT&T (the two cable companies serving Columbia) might be
doing some trading, which would allow another window of opportunity for the City
to make some changes in the franchise. Mr. Campbell indicated that possible combination
will no longer occur, therefore, there is no "window of opportunity" for the
City to make additional changes.
Mr. Coffman reminded the Council that when they approved the
recent change of ownership to Charter Communications, it was approved with a
reservation of rights so they could raise this open access issue in the future
if they see fit.
Mr. Janku said one of the technical reasons he was opposed
to the mandated access was that it would be a disadvantage to require AT&T
to turn over some of that capacity which would then diminish the reason that
many people wanted that service. He also thought, to the extent that other providers
of Internet service want to have access to fiber optic cables, it is possible
for other companies to put fiber optic cable in the infrastructure of the community.
He believed that would be a positive thing and very beneficial for the community.
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
Upon receiving the majority vote of the Council the following
individuals were appointed to the following boards and commissions:
BICYCLE/PEDESTRIAN COMMISSION
Forbes, Vernon J., 1007 Grand Avenue, Ward 1 - term to expire 7/31/03
Mitchell, Gregory C., 903 Haverhill, Ward 5 - term to expire 7/31/03
Pickerel, J. Michael, 1309 S. Fairview, Ward 4 - term to expire 7/31/03
Robinson, John D., 117 Meadow, Ward 1 - term to expire 7/31/03
Stevenson, Mark M., 1122 Old 63 South, Ward 6 - term to expire 7/31/01
BUILDING CONSTRUCTION CODES COMMISSION
Carlson, Kas, 204 Peach Way, Ward 5 - term to expire 8/1/03 (regular)
Naugle, Gary E., 1700 Dozier Station, County - term to expire 8/1/03 ( alternate)
Page, John W., 2701 Woodberry, Ward 5 - term to expire 8/1/03 (regular)
Reichlin, Stephen J., 4208 Fall River, Ward 5 - term to expire 8/1/03 (alternate)
Shanker, Richard A., 602 S. William, Ward 6 - term to expire 8/1/03 (regular)
COMMUNITY SERVICES ADVISORY COMMISSION
Neville, Helen A., 707 Hardin, Ward 1 - term to expire 12/31/02
BOARD OF ELECTRICAL EXAMINERS
Ratchford, Charles B., 4855 Roemer, County - term to expire 8/1/03
Ratliff, Mort L., 1711 Doris, Ward 2 - term to expire 8/1/03
ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT COMMISSION
Schaefer, Kurt U., 3410 Chatham, Ward 5 - term to expire 6/1/03
FIREFIGHTER RETIREMENT BOARD
Davison, Alan L., 210 Russell, Ward 4 - term to expire 12/31/00
SUBSTANCE ABUSE ADVISORY COMMISSION
Carter, Dana M., 2601 Andy, Ward 2 - term to expire 10/31/01
COMMENTS OF COUNCIL, STAFF, AND PUBLIC
Ms. Crayton asked about the possibility of a recovering substance
abuser being appointed to the Substance Abuse Advisory Commission or being allowed
to speak at one of their meetings. Mayor Hindman noted that the Commission meetings
are open to the public, but he did not know if they allow people to address them
as a general rule. He said the opportunity for anybody to attend the meetings
is always there. Mayor Hindman noted that the City ordinance pertaining to this
Commission could be amended to require that one member be a recovering abuser.
However, the membership requirements of the Commission could remain the same,
and the Council could encourage someone in that situation to apply the next time
there is an opening. Mr. Janku noted the Commission would have another opening
in October.
Because of the upcoming budget, Mr. Janku asked for an update
of where the City is in terms of the Web Committee. He wanted any budget changes
to reflect that priority if necessary.
During the Council retreat, Mr. Janku had raised the issue
of whether or not development charges have been updated to reflect changes in
the costs of streets and other public improvements. He asked what the potential
update would be and what procedure would be needed to accomplish that. Mr. Beck
indicated he would like to have some idea of what development costs the City
should attempt to recover. Mr. Janku thought that presently it covers collector
and arterial streets. He suggested that could be expanded to include public safety,
recreation, and general fund items. Mr. Janku noted development charges have
not been updated since he has been on the Council, and he assumed, particularly
street costs, have gone up significantly.
Mr. Campbell complimented the staff on their recent ability
to offer on-line applications for electrical and other services. Mayor Hindman
commented that this could be a big savings for everyone involved.
Also budget related, Mr. John remarked that he would like
the City to consider using technology as a way of increasing efficiency rather
than increasing staff. He had come across a report from San Jose, California
that instituted an on-line permitting system for building permits. Inspections
are still done, but he said the paperwork process is much cleaner and more efficient.
Mr. Coffman commented that he had been hearing how cities
benefit from high tech business and services. He said San Diego had benefitted
because of foresight on their City Council to set policies as to rights-of-ways
where work is done in advance of areas that are developing. He reported that
pipes are laid to allow for all utilities. Mr. Coffman stated that makes it easier
for someone who would want to lay fiber optic cable in advance. He encouraged
the Public Works and Water and Light Departments to let the Council know about
things they could in the future to provide that kind of infrastructure, fiber
optic or otherwise.
Mr. Coffman said since he has been on the Council he has seen
more houses in the historic district being demolished for parking lots. He remarked
it is quite distressing for the neighborhood to see these houses disappear one
by one. Mr. Coffman noted the priorities the Council has approved over the last
few years included strengthening the central city areas. He believed that should
go beyond infrastructure. Mr. Coffman commented that to continuously hear the
justification for tearing down older homes is because they are not in compliance
with City code requirements should not be acceptable. He thought simply enforcing
the ordinances would have a big affect.
Greg Ahrens, 1504 Sylvan Lane, explained that his oil painting
depicting the crowd gathering at the First Night event this year was chosen to
be on the cover for next year's program. Mr. Ahrens stated this painting, along
with the rest of his collection, will be on display through the rest of July
at Brown Hall in the Sid Larson Gallery.
The Council congratulated Mr. Ahrens.
The meeting adjourned at 8:50 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Penny
St. Romaine
City
Clerk
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