M I N U T E S
CITY COUNCIL MEETING - COLUMBIA, MISSOURI
JULY 17, 2000

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