M I N U T E S
 CITY COUNCIL MEETING - COLUMBIA, MISSOURI
 SEPTEMBER 15, 1997

INTRODUCTORY
    The City Council of the City of Columbia, Missouri, met for a regular meeting at 7:00 p.m., on Monday, September 15, 1997, in the Council Chamber of the City of Columbia, Missouri.  The roll was taken with the following results:  Council Members CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, and JANKU were present.  Member COFFMAN was absent.  The City Manager, City Counselor, City Clerk, and various Department Heads were also present.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES
    The minutes of the regular meeting of September 2, 1997, were approved unanimously by voice vote on a motion made by Mr. Janku and a second by Ms. Coble.

APPROVAL AND ADJUSTMENT OF AGENDA INCLUDING CONSENT AGENDA
    The agenda, including the Consent Agenda, was approved unanimously by voice vote on a motion made by Mr. Kruse and a second by Mr. Campbell.

SPECIAL ITEMS
    None.
    Mayor Hindman explained that there had been a major fire last week in downtown Columbia.  He noted that the Fire Department had responded quickly and had managed to contain a very difficult and dangerous fire.  There were no serious injuries.  Mayor Hindman thanked the Fire Department.

SCHEDULED PUBLIC COMMENTS
    None.

PUBLIC HEARINGS
B244-97     Establishing Parks and Recreation Department fees.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck said only two Parks and Recreation fees would be affected by an increase.
    Mr. Green explained that staff proposes to increase summer day camp by $15.00, and establish a new fee for the lighted, premier soccer fields at $75 per game.
    Mr. Janku noted that the soccer lights had been paid for by the quarter cent sales tax.
    Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
    There being no comments, Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
    B244-97 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES:  CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT: COFFMAN.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:

B245-97     Amending Chapter 27 of the City Code regarding water rates.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck noted that this is the only utility increase being proposed in the annual budget.  At the time of the water ballot issue, residents had been informed that the City would propose a 2% water rate increase for FY98.  Mr. Beck pointed out that the increase for the average residential customer would be about 25 cents per month.
    Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
    Henry Lane, 1816 E. Broadway, felt that the Water and Light Department presently has a considerable amount of money on hand.  He thought approximately $12 million was currently available.  Mr. Lane said in a cash flow analysis made by the City in December of 1996, it was estimated the Water and Light Department would begin the year with $8 million, and end it with $11 million in cash.  He said that was without a rate increase.  Mr. Lane prepared his own analysis and distributed it to the Council.  His analysis indicated the total amount of money that the Water and Light Department would have available in FY98, both in cash and securities, would be about $12 million.  He said that would increase to about $23 million by the end of the year.  It was obvious to him that the increase was not necessary.  He said it was apparently being collected because the City thinks it will need the money in the year 2000.  In 1996, Mr. Lane explained that the Water and Light Department said they would need two 5% increases in water rates in 2000 and 2001.  He noted that the City decided to go with four 2% raises over the next four years.  According to a memo from the City Manager, the reason for this had been to make the adjustments in the water rates easier for water users.  Comparing the two rates, four 2% hikes and two 5% hikes, Mr. Lane said the revenue comes out more for the City when they impose the 2% increases.  He wondered if the change had been for the benefit of the customers, or for the benefit of the City.  Mr. Lane said the increase would hurt a lot of people who are already having a hard time paying utility bills.
    Mr. Campbell reiterated that the rate increase would amount to approximately 25 cents per month.  He asked if Mr. Lane was suggesting that this would have a major impact on the average person.  Mr. Lane said if a person is currently having a hard time paying utility bills, he would think this increase would impact them.
    Mr. Janku pointed out that this issue had been presented at the time of the ballot issue, and voters had overwhelmingly approved it.  Mr. Lane noted that there had been no mention of the increase on the ballot.  Mr. Janku said it was contained in the information made available to the public.
    Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
    Mr. Janku explained that the reason this funding mechanism is in place is to maintain a credible bond rating, and he noted that the City enjoys a very strong bond rating.  He said it was better to have a steady income and steady cash reserve rather than to necessarily increase rates in a crisis when the revenues are not there.  Mr. Janku thought this indicated sound financial management.
    Mr. Campbell commented that he did not think 25 cents per month would have a major impact on very many budgets.  He said it would be very minimal.  Mr. Campbell noted that the Water and Light utility was a very large account and while the figures mentioned by Mr. Lane seemed large, in terms of good financial management, they are part of that package.
    Mr. Beck pointed out that the money in the Water and Light utility is kept in a separate account.  Referring to the question asked about the benefactor, Mr. Beck noted that the City is the customer.  He explained that if it is found that increases are not needed, they would not be implemented.
    Ms. Fleming pointed out that some of the money Mr. Lane indicated was available is indeed reserved for specific purposes.  She said the City has almost $2 million in customer deposits on hand that show-up in the daily cash flow; however, those dollars cannot be spent.  Ms. Fleming explained that Water and Light also has reserves as part of the City's bond requirements.  In the investment that has been established, the bond's maturity coincides with the maturity of a debt the City has incurred.  She said the value of that treasury security is anticipated to be used to retire that debt.  Although there are cash balances on the books, Ms. Fleming pointed out that much of it is restricted for specific purposes and would not be available to spend on capital projects.
    Mayor Hindman said the rate increase had been discussed prior to the ballot issue and staff thought it would be more appealing to the residents of the community, and better for the consumer, if the projected rate increases were to be brought in gradually.
    B245-97 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  COFFMAN.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:

B246-97     Establishing a Post Employment Health Plan for City employees.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    When beginning the budget process, Mr. Beck explained that a strategy had been developed as to what percent increases would be available for personnel costs, materials, etc.  There are several bills this evening associated with personnel issues, the first of which concerns a medical savings plan. He pointed out that it would be part of the total personnel package.
    Mr. Beck reported a portion of the total personnel cost included this $201,000 that would establish a post employment health insurance program for City employees.   Mr. Beck said that this program was something very high on the list of the personnel groups the City has been negotiating with for a number of years.  He said that Pebsco had come up with a plan that was felt to be compatible for the City.  Mr. Beck noted that it has been discussed with various work groups, employee groups, and employees.
    Mr. Hargrove stated that Joyce Hall, a Pebsco representative, was available to answer any questions.  He explained that the plan calls for the City to contribute $12 per month, per employee, into the plan.  In addition, there is an item regarding payment of $1 per hour for accumulated sick leave when employees retire from City service.  He said this money would also go into the plan to help pay for post employment health care.
    Mayor Hindman asked if there was any employee contribution into this plan.  Mr. Hargrove said there was not.  He said employee contribution was not allowed under this type of plan.
    Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
    There being no comments, Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
    B246-97 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  COFFMAN.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:

B247-97     Adopting the FY98 pay plan.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck pointed out this bill also falls within the budget strategy for personnel.  He noted there was an amendment sheet that would provide for an employee 3% cost of living pay increase.  Mr. Beck noted that a percentage of the employees are eligible for a merit increase.  Lower paid employees would have an increase based on hourly rates.
    Mr. Campbell made the motion to amend B247-97 per the amendment sheet.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Kruse and approved unanimously by voice vote.
    Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
    There being no comments, Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
    B247-97, as amended, was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  COFFMAN.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:

B248-97     Amending Chapter 19 of the City Code regarding personnel policies, rules and
                    regulations.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck said this is a continuation of the series of personnel ordinances.  He said it addressed reimbursement of standby, on-call provisions.  A small percentage of total personnel funds are made available for this part of the plan.  He noted there was an amendment sheet dealing with personnel represented by the Columbia Police Officers Association.
    Mr. Hargrove explained that the amendment sheet was due to an oversight and a little miscommunication.  He said the amendment would be consistent with the equipment allowance and flexible benefit.
    Mr. Janku made the motion that B248-97 be amended per the amendment sheet.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Kruse and approved unanimously by voice vote.
    Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
    There being no comments, Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
    Mr. Campbell commented that the entire Council had a great appreciation for the highly professional and proficient City employees.
    B248-97, as amended, was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  COFFMAN.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:

B243-97     Adopting the FY98 budget for the Special Business District.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck explained that each year the Special Business District is included in the City's Annual Budget.  He pointed out that their funds come primarily from special property taxes assessed against the properties within a geographic area.
    Mr. Beck said there has been a decreasing amount of revenues for the District because of tax law changes by the state legislature.  In addition, anytime there are public buildings added within the District's geographic boundaries, taxes are not paid to this account.  Last year, Mr. Beck said there had been discussions about how the program might be continued so it would be ongoing in the Central Business District.  One of the options was to provide further funding from the City's general fund to maintain the trees in the Central Business District.  As an alternative, they had gone the route of utilizing the City's funds as a payment in lieu of tax to the District for those public buildings the City owns within the District, and requesting the County and the University to follow a similar procedure.  He said this is the second year the City has followed that guideline.  A study has been completed as to what portion of that would be the City's, and Mr. Beck said it was incorporated in the budget as revenue of $17,500.  He said that was an increase of what it was a year ago.
    Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
    There being no comments, Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
    Mr. Janku said the business community downtown should be commended for their willingness to band together and form this special district and to basically self-impose an additional tax which is designated for street cleaning and other things downtown.  He commented that the leadership downtown was strong and this should be recognized.
    B243-97 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  COFFMAN.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:

B211-97     Adopting the FY98 budget.
    The bill was read by the Clerk.
    After Council budget work sessions with the various departments and work sessions on the budget in general, Mr. Beck said the staff had put together an amendment sheet incorporating various items the Council wished to present to the public.  He said most of the amendments constituted technical changes.
    Mr. Beck noted that a grant had been received since the time the City Manager's budget was initially presented to the Council.  The first item on the amendment sheet reflected the grant received from the Department of Conservation.  In order to avoid future ordinances dealing with the appropriation of those funds, Mr. Beck said staff suggested the grant be incorporated in the budget at this time.  He noted the other grants involved and explained that these are shown as revenues.
    Mr. Beck reviewed the items the Council asked to have incorporated on the amendment sheet -- which will be additions or deletions/reductions.  In addition to this particular amendment sheet, alternative uses for CDBG money had been determined.  Mr. Beck said if the Council makes changes to the CDBG budget, the capital improvement sheets would be adjusted accordingly.  He said it would simply be an allocation shown in the budget.
    Mr. Beck reported that according to HUD requirements, the City is required to hold a public hearing for any amendments to the CDBG plan.  The suggestion was to hold the public hearing in October.  Mr. Beck said this had been done annually on the City's overall comprehensive HUD plan.  The money the City anticipated receiving for the next year is approximately $1 million.  In the past, a plan has been brought to the Council in two phases; one was what the City was fairly certain of receiving, and the other was what actually ended up being announced.  This year, Mr. Beck said HUD had asked that the City try to develop a plan for the full amount rather than in two phases.  He said those funds would not usually become available until some time after February of the following year.  He said there was a plan approved by the Community Development Commission which was incorporated in the budget, shown as exhibit A.
    Regarding the Boone House, Mr. Beck said the question had been asked whether the City could work toward holding and preserving the Boone House if funds would not be available until February of 1998.  Mr. Beck and the staff had looked at the overall CDBG resources and have talked to HUD representatives as to what alternatives might be available.  If the Council chooses to proceed, particularly prior to February, Mr. Beck said he had a way the funding could be addressed.  He described the plan.  He said to hold and preserve the Boone Home did not mean that the City would be bringing the building up to code or any renovations would be done.  In addition, the City can only obtain CDBG money for the appraised value of the home.  Mr. Beck said if there is a difference between the appraisal and what the owner is asking, funds other than HUD monies would have to be used.  He said the City did not have an appraisal of the home at this time.  If the City buys the property at fair market value and the community decides not to go forward, the City could then sell the property.  Theoretically, Mr. Beck said the City would not be out any money until preservation and renovation begins.  Exhibit B implements the described plan for holding and preserving the building.
    John Clark, President of the North Central Neighborhood Association, explained that they are requesting four things.  The first request is for an increase in the category of Service Agency Facilities, specifically the North Central Columbia Neighborhood, from $10,000 to at least $28,005.  The next request is to decrease the Public Works Ash Street construction from $45,000, by at least a similar amount of $18,005.  The third request is that the Council provide the neighborhood association a list of specific concerns that need to be addressed before the City would accept dedication of any of the proposed project sites.  The last item is to include a list of specific City personnel with which the Council would wish the Association to consult, and whose approval the Council would accept as binding, with respect to the issues the Association is asked to consider.  Mr. Clark said it would take an additional $18,005 to fund the first four priority projects.  He said the Association believed this was the minimum project size that will provide an adequate opportunity to actually demonstrate the value of the overall project and to allow them to garner the community support which is important for making it a success.  In the course of constructing the projects, he said they expect to receive support from the property owners and from other community sources.  If sufficient funding is not received, Mr. Clark said the neighborhood is fearful of being severely hampered in working with the owners of the properties -- the City, Columbia College, and the School District.
    Mr. Kruse asked if $10,000 was the only funding that could be granted for the projects, what the Association's priorities would be.  Mr. Clark said the project would have to be re-examined.
    Mayor Hindman said if the Council gave the neighborhood $10,000, that would certainly show an interest on the part of the Council.  Mr. Clark said there was no doubt that it would show some interest but, given the length of the planning, he felt it would still leave a question.  Mayor Hindman suggested that the Association seek other funding sources to determine what the commitment might be were the City to provide more funding at a later date.
    Greg Olson, 217 W. Broadway, addressed items concerning the restoration of the Boone House.  He said the Foundation was very encouraged by some of the developments in the past few days.  Mr. Olson thanked the Council for taking a step in proposing a commitment that would show the value of this house to the City.  He said the Foundation was looking forward to a close working relationship with the City to further this project.
    Mr. Olson explained that there were three issues that have come up since the last meeting he felt should be addressed.  Fund raising was the first issue.  He said there had been a lot made in the last few days about the fact that, as a group, the John William Boone Heritage Foundation has not been able to raise significant money on their own.  He said there was approximately  $2,500 in the bank and in outstanding pledges.  He said this is money that has been received from individuals, and the Foundation was very happy to have it.  He assured the Council that they did not intend to be passive fund raising partners in this project.  At this time, Mr. Olson said they have three grants pending aside from the application for City CDBG money.  One of which was a $25,000 grant application with the State Historic Preservation Office.  Should the grant come through, it would be used to secure an architect who could go through the building and prepare a set of plans which would restore the historic fabric of this building in accordance with Secretary of Interior standards for rehabilitation.
    The second issue is the deteriorating condition of the building.  Mr. Olson reported the building is 106 years old and is falling apart.  He said there are obviously numerous code violations and the Foundation wanted to assure the Council and the public that they are looking at a broader picture regarding the restoration of the historic fabric of the house.  While a new building and cultural heritage center would be fine, Mr. Olson said to overlook this opportunity to restore a direct link to the past would be a grievous error.
    Finally, Mr. Olson said the Foundation would like to assure everyone they are not looking for a center that is going to be simply an African American cultural heritage center.  He said they are looking at something broader -- a cultural heritage center that would address the contributions of Blind Boone.  Mr. Olson asked people to look past the initial down payment to the long-term.  He said they saw it as a matter of economic development because there would exist possibilities for heritage tourism dollars to be brought into Columbia should this and some of the other museum projects for the Flat Branch area come to pass.
    John John, 1001 LaGrange Court, spoke in support of a request for funding for a neighborhood park.  The request was for playground equipment at Grant School.  He explained that a budget had been established for $30,000 and, of that amount, the Grant School PTA has contributed $6,000 and donations have raised an additional $8,000.  He said they are seeking another $16,000, possibly in CDBG money.  Mr. John said there were really no City parks in this area.  In the past, the City of Columbia, through the Parks and Recreation Department, has partnered with the school board in buying land next to schools and developing parks on the property.
    Mr. Campbell questioned whether or not Grant School was in the CDBG eligibility area.  It was determined that it was not.  Mr. Campbell said he was very supportive of the project and that he would speak to it later.
    Laurie Green, a local attorney, spoke on behalf of Freedom House II.  She explained that they are a not-for-profit corporation that was formed in order to obtain a HUD grant for the purpose of constructing a 12 unit barrier-free apartment house.
    Diane Miller, President of the Board of Directors of Freedom House II, explained that six 2-bedroom and six 3-bedroom apartment units are planned for disabled people with families.  Ms. Miller said they had encountered a "snag", which the project consultant would further explain.
    Jack Oliver, President of Metrocorp, Project Consultant, said he had received a commitment for a grant from HUD in the amount $965,700.  He said not only was a grant received to build the project, but Section 8 funds will also be received.  Mr. Oliver stated the apartments would be available for low and moderate income families who are disabled.  The project "snag" had just come to light within the past two weeks, and the deadline is scheduled for September 30.  He said they were proceeding along that path until a call was received in which it was indicated that HUD could not provide funding for the full property value of $127,000 (the price negotiated with Stephens College).  The property has two houses on it and HUD can only grant the "as is" value -- meaning the value of the property without the two houses.  Mr. Oliver said the amount HUD was willing to grant was a little over $72,000.  The problem at this point is a monetary shortfall of approximately $53,400.  He asked the Council whether there was some way the City could provide that sum of money.  Mr. Oliver pointed out that the project was ready to go as soon as the funds are available.
    Mr. Campbell explained that public hearings had to be advertised and held before any kind of City funding could be expended.  He asked about the absolute deadline for having funds in hand.  Mr. Oliver said the deadline given was September 30 and, after that point, HUD had indicated that they would recapture those funds and send them back to Washington.  An alternative he thought they had was, if the City was willing to make a definitive commitment to the project with a specific time, a bridge loan of some sort could be granted.  Mr. Oliver said he would not hesitate to go to HUD and take whatever route might be available to extend the deadline.
    Mayor Hindman asked about Mr. Oliver's relationship to the project.  Mr. Oliver said he was the consultant and had no other relationship other than arms length.  Mayor Hindman asked when he had found out about the situation.  Mr. Oliver said it had been about two weeks ago.
    Mr. Campbell asked when the grant had been given.  Mr. Oliver said the approval had been received a year ago April, at which point they began the process of completing the plans and getting bids.
    Ms. Coble asked if they were prepared to begin construction September 30.  Mr. Oliver said they were ready to go within 10 days of that date.
    Mr. Oliver pointed out that the property had been submitted at the price of $127,000 from day one.  He said HUD had been out and looked at it, but they had not supplied an appraised value of the land until two weeks ago.
    Mrs. Crockett asked if all of the building plans were ready to go.  Mr. Oliver said they were.  He had the plans and specifications completed and approved by HUD and their architectural staff.  Mr. Oliver said an independent contractor was hired out of Arizona, at HUD's request, to review the prices to ensure they were acceptable to HUD.
    Mr. Janku asked if any other entities within the community had been contacted, such as financial institutions or trusts.  Mr. Oliver said their attorney had contacted some of the local banks regarding programs they have established for assisting the community.  He said this type of project apparently does not fit into the description required for that use.  Mr. Oliver reported there had been discussions of possibly asking some of the local foundations for assistance, but in most cases they have already made their commitments for 1997, and many of them for 1998.
    Mr. Kruse said this was obviously a very worthy project that should be easy to raise money around.  He said the problem was the time frame.
    Jerry Morris, a member of the Freedom House Board of Directors, is a handicapped person who works for Services for Independent Living.  Mr. Morris pointed out that SIL works with all types of disabilities.  He said this was by far one of the greatest, most severe needs of the community -- accessible housing for the disabled in the community.  In his opinion, this was a very worthy project.  Mr. Morris said they were down to the wire and were approaching the City because they need help.
    Matt Effington, 2302 Oakland Gravel Road, Resource Development and Volunteer Coordinator for Rainbow House, which is an emergency shelter for abused and neglected children and families in crisis situations.  He explained that the Rainbow House's request was for $30,035 in CDBG funds for buying a 15-passenger van.  The van is used to transport the children Rainbow House serves to 28 schools in Columbia.  Transportation is provided to all of the schools because this is seen as an important part of the children's stability during a stressful time of their life.  Mr. Effington explained that the present van is 13 years old and was very unreliable.  The last time it was in for repairs, they had been told it would not be worth the financial investment to get it fixed.
    Mayor Hindman pointed out that the request from Rainbow House had remained in the budget from the beginning.
    Ben Loeb, 166 W. Green Meadows, Director of the Columbia Tennis Association, had been informed by the Parks and Recreation that lighting at the Rock Bridge High School tennis courts had been proposed for the fiscal year 1998 budget.  He reported this had been proposed last year, but had not been funded.  He asked that the project be funded this year in that there are no other public courts in the area.  Regarding the CIP, Mr. Loeb asked the Council to think about financing tennis courts in Cosmo-Bethel Park.  He suggested that this could begin by adding four courts to the area and, perhaps, the school district would allow the use of the property behind Gentry Middle School for this purpose.
    Mark Jones, 111 Switzler, asked that funds be made available for responsible people in the inner city area for special projects.  He said the small children and teenagers need help as did the elderly.
    Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
    Mayor Hindman recapped the requests the Council had heard this evening.  He said although the requests were very appealing, it was a difficult situation because the budget was very tight to begin with.
    Regarding Freedom House II, Mr. Janku asked if staff knew of any funds that have not been programmed at this point.  He wondered about allocated ADA funds.  He reported the Council could not vote on anything tonight because a public hearing would have to be held first.
    Mr. Campbell asked if the Council had any options.  Mr. Beck had discussions with HUD, and also with Stephens College.  He said this could be a very worthwhile project and, from a personal standpoint, he had always been supportive of working with the disabled.  Mr. Beck had looked for ways to make this a viable project, but there are real concerns about whether or not this could happen.  CDBG money is used for two things -- grants and loans.  If a loan was made, HUD indicated that any repayment of the loan could not come from operational revenues derived by the agencies, unless it was from special projects such as chili suppers.  Mr. Beck said the only other possible alternative is a grant, and he seriously doubted that the project could be closed by the deadline.  Regarding ADA funding, he said there would not be enough money available.  Mr. Beck was very sorry the City received the request as late as they had.  Mr. Beck said the only possible option appeared to be using the loan payback money.  He asked Mr. Hancock if that could be done without any additional hearings.
    Mr. Hancock said if some older CDBG funds that had been assigned to certain projects were reprogrammed, funds would be available in November or December.  He said the City could not do any kind of commitment for a loan guarantee until this process is followed.  Mr. Hancock explained that the account Mr. Beck was referring to was from the old rental rehabilitation program.  He said that money (paybacks) was targeted for a match with the HOME Program.  He said the City had been lucky to be able to use tax credit proceeds from the Hanover projects for that match.  Mr. Hancock reported that the rehabilitation program was funded through the HOME Program.
    Mr. Janku said even this alternative would require a number of Council meetings and a public hearing.  Mr. Beck said to make this work, Freedom House II would have to take out a short-term loan, and the Council would have to appropriate funds out of the account Mr. Hancock previously mentioned to reimburse the bank for the short-term loan.  Mr. Janku asked if the City could make it a loan.  Mr. Campbell said, in essence, the City would be robbing Peter to pay Paul; HOME funds were supposed to be used for making home ownership available to low income people.  He said this had always been a high priority for the Council.
    Mr. Kruse asked whether Stephens College would be willing to owner finance the difference.
    Mr. Campbell pointed out that the budget the Council was looking at contains a sum total of $13,000 remaining in the contingency fund.  He said the budget was tight and there were no funds just lying around.  Mr. Campbell said the City was caught in a severe money bind as well as a time bind.
    Mayor Hindman thought every attempt should be made to get this project accomplished as there are some unanswered questions that need to be looked into.  Mayor Hindman suggested that it be further researched and perhaps discussed at the next work session on the 22nd.
    Regarding the Grant School Park, Mr. Campbell said the Council had been moving in that direction for a number of years, but as stated earlier, there is not a policy in place nor the funds right now to do it.  Mr. Campbell stated he will address later in the meeting the development of such a policy.
    Mr. Janku pointed out that there are some general unallocated funds for neighborhood park improvements in the budget.  Once a policy is in place, he thought the Council could possibly look at it for this year's budget.  Mr. Janku reported there are a number of examples of neighborhood school cooperation.
    Mayor Hindman said he would like to see such a policy taken one step further.  He said there were lots of opportunities for neighborhood parks, especially small ones that could have a small playground and take up very little space.  Mayor Hindman said this could be done cooperatively with neighborhoods as well.
    Mrs. Crockett said in this particular instance it would save the City from buying a piece of land in an area where a park is very much needed.
    Regarding the North Central Neighborhood request, Mayor Hindman felt the $10,000 was a show that the City was willing to experiment with the project, and that the Council appreciates what the neighborhood has done.  When balancing the various priorities, he felt $10,000 was a very appropriate amount.
    Mr. Campbell commended the North Central group on their activism and efforts to improve their neighborhood.  He said he had raised some practical concerns about their proposal and, as an individual, he would be happy to meet with them.
    Mr. Janku said if the project is demonstrated to be a success, the Council could come back in future years and support it.
    Mr. Kruse agreed and said if one or two high profile, high quality projects could be completed with the money, this could spur additional community support.
    Ms. Coble made the motion that B211-97 be amended per
amendment sheet B (CDBG).  The motion was seconded by Mr. Kruse and approved unanimously by voice vote.
    Mr. Campbell made the motion that B211-97, as amended, be further amended per amendment sheet A.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Janku and approved unanimously by voice vote.
    B211-97, as amended, was read with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  COFFMAN.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:

B238-97     Rezoning from R-2 PUD to C-P property at the southeast corner of Hyde Park and Nifong.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck said this rezoning request had been recommended for approval by the Planning and Zoning Commission on a 7 to 2 vote.  He said two conditions had been attached to the recommendation.  One condition was that the uses be limited to District O-1, and the other was that there be no driveway access onto Nifong Boulevard.
    Mr. Kruse asked if the staff was in support of the rezoning with the conditions.  Mr. Hancock said they were in support of it with the conditions.
    David Rogers, an attorney with offices at 813 E. Walnut, spoke on behalf of the applicant.  He explained that this was the club house building at the Hyde Park apartments.  He said it has commercial usage across the street both ways.  He said the usage requested was for C-P zoning, but limited to O-1 uses, which makes it basically a planned office use without the necessity of going back through the process again.  Mr. Rogers said it was also agreed that the plan should limit access onto Nifong Boulevard.
    B238-97 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT: COFFMAN.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:

OLD BUSINESS
B229-97     Confirming the contract for construction of a flood intake structure at Wetland Treatment
                    Unit 3, and appropriating funds.
    The bill was read by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck noted that the request by the staff was to further table the bill.  He explained that staff is working on a way to get the project accomplished within the deadline and the bids received or, in the alternative, get an extended deadline so the project could be rebid.
    Dan Barkledge, an attorney for Missouri Bridge Company, explained that he had spoken on the company's behalf at the last meeting.  He noted that their position was still the same and asked that the Council award them the bid.
    Mrs. Crockett reiterated the fact that Missouri Bridge Company had not used the proper bid form the City requested.
    Mr. Campbell made the motion to table B229-97 to October 6, 1997.  The motion was seconded by Mrs. Crockett and approved unanimously by voice vote.

B237-97     Authorizing Transportation Enhancement Funds Program agreements for the Bear Creek
                    Trail Phase 3 and Hinkson Creek Trail Phase 2 projects, and appropriating funds.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck explained that this would actually authorize the City to enter into the contract agreements.
    B237-97 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  COFFMAN.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:

B249-97     Authorizing City Manager to execute an annexation agreement with Angelo & Mary
                    Skyvalidas - Victoria South.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck explained that this agreement would authorize a connection to the City sewer system in accordance with the policy agreements that have been worked out.
    Mayor Hindman said this would be the first connection under the new policy regarding annexations.
    B249-97 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  COFFMAN.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:

B250-97     Authorizing City Manager to execute an annexation agreement with Menu Maker Foods,
                    Inc.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck said a request from the applicant had been received to have this item tabled.
    Mr. Campbell made the motion that B250-97 be tabled to the October 6, 1997, meeting.  The motion was seconded by Mrs. Crockett and approved unanimously by voice vote.

R132-97     Approving the preliminary plat of Stoneridge Estates, Phase 1, and granting variances.
    The resolution was read by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck said there had also been a request by the applicant to table this issue.
    Mr. Campbell made the motion to table R132-97 to the October 20, 1997, meeting.  The motion was seconded by Mrs. Crockett and approved unanimously by voice vote.

CONSENT AGENDA
    The following bills were given second reading and the resolutions were read by the Clerk.

B239-97     Approving the final plat of Providence Village South, Plat 1.
B240-97     Approving the final plat of Hanover Plaza, Plat 4.
B241-97     Assessing a special tax to abate weed nuisances.
B242-97     Accepting water utility conveyances.
R139-97     Setting a public hearing regarding installation of traffic signals at the intersection of Tenth
                    and Rogers.
R140-97     Setting a public hearing regarding construction of improvements to the sanitary landfill.
R141-97     Authorizing a right of use permit to allow Dodie Douglas to adopt a spot for beautification
                    on Bernadette Drive.
R142-97     Authorizing a right of use permit to allow Mill Creek Landscaping and Highlands Realty to
                    adopt a spot for beautification along a portion of Forum Boulevard.
R143-97     Authorizing a right of use permit to allow Columbia Jaycee's to adopt a spot for
                    beautification along a portion of Forum Blvd.
R144-97     Authorizing a right of use permit to allow Debi Soper to adopt a spot for beautification
                    along a portion of Forum Boulevard.
R145-97     Authorizing application for Department of Conservation grant for tree maintenance along
                    the MKT Trail.
 
    The bills were given third reading and the resolutions read with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  COFFMAN.  Bills declared enacted and resolutions declared adopted, reading as follows:

NEW BUSINESS
R146-97     Authorizing contracts for FHWA and FTA planning grants.
    The resolution was read by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck explained that this was an annual renewal of the City's agreement under the programs with FHWA and FTA funds.  He said it would provide for $80,190 in FHWA funds and $20,000 in FTA funds.
    The vote on R146-97 was recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  COFFMAN.  Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:

R147-97     Authorizing an agreement with Central Missouri Aviation for lease of a ground site for the
                    construction of a hangar.
    The resolution was read by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck explained that the applicant is requesting to lease a 110 x 125 foot hangar area at the airport on the south side of Taxiway C.  The agreement would be for 25 years and would have renewal options.  Mr. Beck said Central Missouri Aviation would be paying the City a ground rental fee of eight cents per square foot, which amounted to $1,100 per year.
    The vote on R147-97 was recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  COFFMAN.  Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:

R148-97     Authorizing an agreement with the University for membership in MOREnet.
    The resolution was read by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck said staff had been working on this program for some time and the City's share would be a one-time cost of $1,300 for the leased circuit installation and connection fee.  He said there would be an annual cost of $7,240 for the membership, and some miscellaneous contractual costs of $840.  Mr. Beck pointed out that this had been reviewed by the staff and they were recommending approval.
    The vote on R148-97 was recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  COFFMAN.  Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:

    The following bills were introduced by the Mayor, unless otherwise indicated, and all were given first reading:

B251-97     Amending Chapter 14 of the City Code regarding establishing an all-way stop at the
                    intersection of LaSalle Place and Pendleton Street.
B252-97     Amending Chapter 14 of the City Code regarding parking.
B253-97     Amending Chapter 14 of the City Code to make LaSalle Place a one-way street.
B254-97     Amending Chapter 14 of the City Code regarding angle parking.
B255-97     Amending Chapter 14 of the City Code to establish all-way stops at the intersections of
                    Fifth and Ash and Tenth and Park Avenue.
B256-97     Amending Chapter 18 of the City Code regarding firefighter pensions.
B257-97     Authorizing an agreement with Boone County for jury parking.
B258-97     Calling for bids for construction of Cell No. 2 in Area 4 of the sanitary landfill.
B259-97     Calling for bids for construction of sewers in Sewer District No. 138 (Route B).
B260-97     Authorizing Change Order No. 1 and accepting the engineer's report on construction of
                    the Hardin-Mikel-Donnelly Drainage Project, Phase 1.
B261-97     Rezoning from A-1 to PUD-6 property on the south side of St. Charles Road east of
                    Dorado Drive.
B262-97     Rezoning from R-1 to R-2 and C-P property on the east side of Ballenger Lane north of
                    Clark Lane.
B263-97     Approving the final plat of Oak Forest, Block V-D.
B264-97     Authorizing an addendum to the Agreement for Public Safety Joint Communications
                    System.
 

REPORTS AND PETITIONS
(A)     Adding Bernadette Drive to the Sidewalk Master Plan.
    Mr. Beck said staff was recommending that this be deferred until the work is completed on the remaining sidewalk planning.  He noted that he and the Mayor had met with a representative from the Missouri Department of Transportation.  He explained a seminar would be held in Columbia either in October or November regarding pedestrian transportation alternatives.  Mr. Beck said the Mayor suggested that they attend the seminar before completing the sidewalk plan.
    Mr. Janku said he had asked for the report and he thought it was not the highest priority, but down the road it would be necessary.

(B)     Board of Health Water Safety Task Force Report.
    Mr. Beck explained that the suggested Council action was to prepare an appropriation ordinance and also refer it to the Building Construction Codes Commission or the Law Department to have an ordinance prepared.  He was in agreement with the latter two, but said as far as appropriating money at this time, he would rather see it associated with the Health Department budget.  When the ordinance is completed, it could be determined at that time if an appropriation of additional money is necessary.
    Ms. Coble asked if there had been a staff preference as to where this report should be forwarded next.  Mr. Beck said the Law Department would need to prepare the ordinance.  He thought the Building Construction Codes Commission was mentioned because there may be a question as to whether or not the building code situation is applicable.  Mr. Boeckmann assured the Council that he would not prepare the ordinance without first consulting with Protective Inspection.  He said the BOCA ordinances would probably be introduced at the next Council meeting.
    Regarding the recommendations, Mr. Janku said there was no mention of water being retained in the pools when not in operation.  He said that was the situation which resulted in the deaths of one or two of the children involved.  He said the report did not seem to address that issue.  Mayor Hindman thought the recommendations required that pools be covered.  It was thought pools could come out of the ground in the winter if some water does not remain in them.  Mr. Janku wondered if that problem could be addressed during a pool's construction.
    Regarding the education effort, Mayor Hindman said there was a group called the Columbia Safety Council, and he wondered if they would be interested in taking on the issue.  Mr. Beck said he would ask Mr. Sanford to discuss it with them.
    It was decided the report would be referred to the staff and to the Commission, if need be.

(C)     Intra-Departmental Transfer of Funds.
    Report accepted.

(D)     Street Closure Requests.
    Mayor Hindman explained that the requests were for closing Walnut Street on Saturday, September 27, from 4:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, September 28, from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. for the Missouri Fall Festival; and closing Fourth Street, from Ash to the alley on the north side of the Tribune building on Saturday, October 4, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for a picnic for the Tribune paper carriers.
    Mr. Campbell made the motion that the requests be approved as written.  The motion was seconded by Mrs. Crockett and approved unanimously by voice vote.

(E)     Final Report of the Public Health Services Review Task Force.
    Mayor Hindman commented that this report represents a lot of hard work by a number of people.  He suggested that the Council receive staff input and then discuss the issue at a future work session.  He said the Council needs to move ahead promptly on it.
    Ms. Coble said one thing she was pleased to see in the report was the clear conclusion that current space needs were paramount for the County City Health Department for all of its operations and its public health role.  She said it was apparent that those needs should be addressed immediately.
    Mayor Hindman made the motion that the report be referred to the staff for their recommendation back to the Council.
    The motion was seconded by Mr. Campbell and approved unanimously by voice vote.

BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
    Upon receiving the majority vote of the Council the following individuals were appointed to the following boards and commissions:

BUILDING CONSTRUCTION CODES COMMISSION
Naugle, Gary E., 1700 Dozier Station Rd., County - term to expire 8/1/00

COMPUTER ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Wetherill, Leo G., 127 S. Fifth Street, Ward 2 - term to expire 8/1/00

CONVENTION & VISITORS ADVISORY BOARD
Bank, Gail I., 1214 S. Fairview Road, Ward 4 - term to expire 9/30/99
Schultz, Thomas D., 1311 Troon Drive, Ward 5 - term to expire 9/30/99

CULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMISSION
Miller, Craig R., 1510 Windsor Street, Ward 3 - term to expire 4/1/99

CULTURAL AFFAIRS STANDING COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC ART
Hunter, Marie Christine, 4301 Forum Blvd., Ward 4 - term to expire 7/1/98

ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT COMMISSION
Collins, Nancy C., 1201 Paquin, Ward 1 - term to expire 6/1/99

FINANCE ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Johnson, Walter L., 503 Edgewood, Ward 4 - term to expire 12/31/98

PERSONNEL ADVISORY BOARD
Dorsey, Maryanne, 4904 Bethel, Ward 5 - term to expire 9/30/00
Rainsberger, Paul K., 2401 Hillshire Drive, Ward 4 - term to expire 9/30/00

RISK MANAGEMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Keller, Calvin A., 1105 Vegas Drive, Ward 4 - term to expire 1/1/00

COMMENTS OF COUNCIL, STAFF AND PUBLIC.
    Mr. Campbell made the motion that the staff be directed to prepare a policy resolution for Council consideration regarding the earlier discussion about Grant School and a park.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Janku and approved unanimously by voice vote.
    Mr. Campbell explained that many years ago the Convention & Visitors Bureau was seeking additional funds and, at that time, they had a considerable budget surplus.  The Council directed them to reduce their budget and then come back and talk.  He said when the report was given to the Council this time, Lorah Steiner noted that the budget was getting down to a relatively small amount.  She felt their budget was being squeezed somewhat.  Mr. Campbell thought it was time for the Convention and Visitors Advisory Board to come forward with a three to five year plan for financing and programs that the Council might consider.
    Mr. Campbell made the motion that the Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Advisory Board be directed to prepare a three to five year plan that will include financing and programs.  The Bureau shall present a preliminary version of the plan by January 1.  The motion was seconded by Ms. Coble and approved unanimously by voice vote.
    Regarding Grant School, Mr. Kruse said after the Council adopts a policy resolution, he would like to see further consideration given to at least partially funding the playground/park.
    Mr. Janku said the Council were all pleased with the Adopt A Spots agreements that were approved this evening.  He wondered if it was time to work on having the downtown planters adopted and thought this might be a good time to pursue that.
    Mr. Janku said he had received comments from someone who had been a member of the Martin Luther King Memorial Committee.  The request was that the Council see what they could do to help with the visibility of the quotes at the Memorial.  Mr. Janku said they were difficult to read and perhaps they needed to be stained to provide more of a contrast.  He said there was also some type of leaching occurring onto the Memorial.
    Regarding the funds for the North Central Neighborhood Association markers, Mr. Janku said the Association was interested in knowing what steps were necessary to keep the project moving so it can be implemented.  He said any direction provided would be appreciated.  Mayor Hindman said he felt confident the staff would work with the Neighborhood Association.
    As a follow-up of the discussion regarding the CDBG funds, Mr. Beck said he would like the Council to make a motion setting a hearing for October 6.  He said that way it could be advertised accordingly.  He noted there would still be the 30-day comment period.
    Mayor Hindman made the motion that the Council hold the public hearing on October 6, 1997.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Kruse and approved unanimously by voice vote.
    Mr. Beck commented that he felt the overall budget process had gone very well.  He said he had already thanked the staff, but wanted to thank the Council for all of the time they spent on work sessions and preparation.  He said there were numerous issues that had been addressed because Columbia is a full service City.
    The meeting adjourned at 10:10 p.m.
                                                                                              Respectfully submitted,

                                                                                              Penny St. Romaine
                                                                                              City Clerk