M I N U T E S
 CITY COUNCIL MEETING - COLUMBIA, MISSOURI
 MAY 18, 1998

INTRODUCTORY
    The City Council of the City of Columbia, Missouri, met for a regular meeting at 7:00 p.m., on Monday, May 18, 1998, in the Council Chamber of the City of Columbia, Missouri.  The roll was taken with the following results:  Council members HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, and COFFMAN were present.  Member JANKU 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 May 4, 1998, were approved unanimously by voice vote on a motion made by Mr. Campbell and a second by Ms. Coble.

APPROVAL AND ADJUSTMENT OF AGENDA INCLUDING CONSENT AGENDA
    Upon his request, Ms. Coble made the motion that Mr. Coffman be allowed to abstain from voting on B137-98.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Campbell and approved unanimously by voice vote.
    The agenda, including the Consent Agenda, was approved unanimously by voice vote on a motion made by Mr. Campbell and a second by Ms. Coble.

SPECIAL ITEMS
    None.

SCHEDULED PUBLIC COMMENTS
    Mayor Hindman noted that it had recently been learned that Boeing does not require a contract with the City for usage of the airport, and the company had withdrawn its application for a contract.

1.     Leon Steinberg - Harrier Testing at Airport
    Mr. Steinberg, 9205 Clatterbuck Road, Ashland, MO, spoke on behalf of the Advocates for Rural Peace, a group of citizens living near the Columbia Regional Airport.  Mr. Steinberg said residents do not have a problem with the normal civilian and commercial traffic at the airport, nor is the group anti-military.  He had a petition containing approximately 1,100 signatures, in addition to the support offered by the Tribune, the Boone County Journal, the majority of the City Council, and an endorsement of support from the Sierra Club and various other organizations.  A letter dated March 24, 1998, which had been circulated among City officials, verifies the allegations that high speed, low altitude testing of the Harrier fighter jet did actually occur at the airport last year.  He said residents had been told that minimum altitudes of 1,000 feet were maintained.  Mr. Steinberg understood that the contract would be allowed to lapse, but the Harrier fighter jets would still be free to use the airport should Boeing so desire.  Mr. Steinberg has heard that Boeing is looking for another testing site.  However, should they continue to use the airport, he asked that the City not allow the storage of Boeing's fuel truck at the airport, and to discontinue the practice of providing special fire protection for the Harrier fighter jet during test flights.  He read the petition which stated citizens are opposed to the Columbia City Council passing a resolution in May, 1998 for the renewal of the contract with Boeing Corporation for use of the Columbia Regional Airport for testing the Harrier fighter jets, due to the excessive noise and community disturbance thereby created.  Mr Steinberg, with the help of Representative Chuck Graham, presented the petition to the Council.
    Mrs. Crockett asked of the signatures collected, how many people lived within 10 miles of the airport.  Mr. Steinberg said probably half of them.  Mrs. Crockett asked when he had last heard the Harrier.  Mr. Steinberg said it was in February, and added that he has always maintained that the only time he hears the Harrier is when it flies over his home or is passing in close proximity.  He said it could have been hovering at the airport and he would not have known it.

2.     Mary Curry Lottes - Boeing Contract & Harrier Testing
    Mary Curry Lottes, 10201 Burnette School Road, Ashland, MO, said residents understood the Harriers would still be allowed to land and test because of federal funds being received for the airport.  Ms. Lottes said one of the group's representatives spoke with Boeing on Friday, and had been told that Columbia was the only site in the United States they could test for a variety of reasons.  She added residents have never complained about the airport or air show activities.  Ms. Lottes said that Boeing is retrofitting the planes and increasing the testing by three times the regular amount this year.  Her questions is, if Boeing is testing the Harrier's reliability associated with the controls, the hydraulics, and engines, what would happen if these are not operating properly.  She is also concerned about the recent radar outages and the fact that the cause for the outages seems to be nonexistent.  Ms. Lottes said the testing should be done at a military base.  She asked that Missouri Revised Statute, Chapter 305, be enforced which would establish a monitor.  She said until this issue is resolved, residents would like to see the flight schedule.  Ms. Lottes also suggested that Boeing give neighboring residents a mental health tax for what they have been subjected to, and perhaps donate some money for the library or the schools.

3.     Karen and Dale Wesselmann - Boeing Contract & Harrier Testing
    Karen Wesselmann, 8881 E. Clatterbuck Road, Ashland, MO, said she has been very supportive of the military all of her life -- her father being retired military.  In addition, she had considered a career in the military but had decided that was not what she wanted for her family because she wanted her children to be able to grow up in a stable location with a peaceful environment.  Because of the testing occurring over her home, she felt as though her choice had been taken away.  She chose to marry a farmer so they could have a quiet, peaceful life, and now suddenly she felt as though they were being invaded by the military because of the Harrier jets.  Ms. Wesselmann said her children have been terrorized by the noise and she is still seeing the affects of it.  She spoke about her children screaming and having nightmares, and it has been a very intense experience for them.  She read excerpts from a study she read in Psychological Science 1998.  It provides the definitive evidence that chronic noise from low flying jets can significantly affect the health of children.  Ms. Wesselmann reported she also has concerns about safety. She said if a crash were to occur, she seriously questioned whether or not adequate support could be provided.
    Mrs. Crockett asked Ms. Wesselmann if the cargo planes or the Lear jets bother her children.  Ms. Wesselmann responded these did not bother her kids before the Harrier jets arrived, but since the testing, they get scared when there is any kind of a plane until they realize it is not the same intense noise.  She said it had only been with the Harrier jets that the children screamed uncontrollably.
    Mayor Hindman asked if the noise was just from the low flying airplanes or if it was from the hovering.  Ms. Wesselmann said she had never had planes hover over her property.  She said it is the low flying, strafing runs.  She said the Harriers literally go over her house top, just barely clearing the tree tops.  Mayor Hindman asked how often this occurs.  Ms. Wesselmann said there were times when it would happen almost every day of the week, and then there might be several weeks where there would be nothing.

4.     Karen Prins - Harrier - Boeing Contract
    Karen Prins, 9205 Clatterbuck, Ashland, MO, thanked the Council for giving residents the opportunity to express their concerns.  She said the area had become very populated and, in addition to farmers, there are many people living in south Boone County who are self-employed, people who work nights and sleep during the day, mothers with small children, and the elderly.  She understood that although there would not be a contract, the FAA has indicated that landing and take-off of government planes is allowed.  She said there is no indication that testing would be allowed.  She did not believe the military has any business testing the planes at a rural community regional airport.  Ms. Prins stated these military jets should be testing at a military base.
    Mayor Hindman suggested that a summary of the comments be forwarded to Boeing.

PUBLIC HEARINGS
B141-98     Approving a revision to the C-P Development Plan for the Milo H. Walz Home Furnishing Center.

    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck said the Planning and Zoning Commission had recommended approval of this request for a 12 foot height increase on an existing freestanding sign.
    Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
    Marilyn Gaeth, an attorney with offices at 1103 E. Broadway, spoke on behalf of Blattner Furniture, Inc., the property owner.  Ms. Gaeth distributed pictures of the existing sign from different locations.  She said the signage is needed to attract customers because of the store's location from the road.
    Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
    Mrs. Crockett said she had no problem with granting the extension of height for the sign.  She said she visited the site, and the sign could not be seen because of the cedar trees.  She did not think trees should be cut down in order for the sign to be seen.
    Mayor Hindman agreed that it is difficult to see the sign.
    B141-98 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  JANKU.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:

B142-98     Rezoning property at 21 Fourth Avenue from District R-2 to District O-P.

    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck noted that this property is located on the northwest corner of Fourth and Grand.  The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval.  He said any external changes to either the structure or the area around the building would have to be submitted as a development plan to the Council.
    Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
    Joanne Rainey, property owner, said the members of the Child Care Team of the Health Report Card Project had said Columbia has a shortage of infant, night, and special needs care, in addition to a lack of licensed child care in central Columbia.  She said her day care is located in central Columbia and would have infant and night care available.  She met with the neighborhood association and they are supportive of the rezoning request.
    Ms. Coble complimented Ms. Rainey on the way she had gone about this project.
    Pat Kelly, 1007 Grand Avenue, President of the Ridgeway Neighborhood Association, said the Association had discussed the Rainey proposal at their most recent meeting and the issue had been unanimously approved by all members present.   Mayor Hindman thanked the neighborhood for their interest.
    Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
    B142-98 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  JANKU.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:

(A)     Annexation of property located on the east side of State Route KK, south of Mill Creek.

    Item A was read by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck explained that this 50 acre tract of land is contiguous to the recently annexed University property.  The request has been reviewed by the various departments of the City, and County agencies have been notified of the request.
    Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
    There being no comments, Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
    Mayor Hindman noted that a related ordinance would be introduced this evening.

(B)     Annexation of property located on the south side of New Haven Road, east of the City limits.

    Item B was read by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck said this approximate 33 acre tract of land owned by the U.S. Government is contiguous to the recently annexed University property.  It contains the research facility operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.  Again, all the reviews had been made and the proper County agencies had been notified of the request.
    Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
    There being no comments, Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
    Mayor Hindman said that no action was required and added that an ordinance would be introduced.

(C)     Annexation of property located on the east side of Scotts Boulevard, south of Hinkson Creek.

    Item C was read by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck explained that this 94 acre tract is located in southwest Columbia.  There is an associated rezoning application that will be introduced this evening requesting that 14 acres be zoned C-P, and the remaining 80 acres be zoned R-1.  He noted that this is the Baurichter property, and the City had purchased part of the farm for a buffer along the MKT Trail several years ago.
    Mr. Kruse asked if the section of road along this property is being improved.  Mr. Patterson said the County has a road improvement project.  Mr. Kruse said it looked as though the road is being brought up to arterial standards.  Mr. Beck said Vawter School Road is also up for improvement, which will establish an outer loop around the City.
    Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
    There being no comments, Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.

(D)     Annexation of property located on the east side of Grant Lane, south of City limits.

    Item D was read by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck explained that this 10 acre tract of land in southwest Columbia is now zoned for single family.  He said the applicant would like for it to remain single family after it is annexed into the City.
    Mayor Hindman opened the Public Hearing.
    James Lane, 2608 Grant Lane, owns property adjacent to the proposed annexation.  He said residents have talked, as individuals and as groups, to the developer and have not received much flexibility on what is planned.  Residents are concerned that if the applicants receive the R-1 zoning, a substantial portion of trees on the tract would be destroyed.  Currently, the property is heavily forested and is the site of an old nursery.  Mr. Lane said the R-1 zoning would not put any requirements on the developer on what he can and cannot do.  He said residents would prefer a different type of zoning be designated.
    Mayor Hindman asked if residents are primarily concerned about the R-1 zoning.  Mr. Lane said they were.  Mayor Hindman said the permanent zoning would be discussed at the next meeting.  Mr. Campbell also noted that in addition to annexing the property and establishing R-1 zoning, before development could occur, a preliminary plat would have to be submitted to the Council.  That provides another chance for the neighbors to have input.
    Mr. Campbell noted that he is meeting with the neighborhood group next Monday evening.  He understood that the question is whether an R-1 PUD would be more controlled.  Mr. Lane said that had been something residents had asked the developer to consider.
    Mrs. Crockett asked if the density would be higher in a PUD than in R-1.  Mr. Patterson said the density of a residential PUD would be set by the Council.  Mr. Kruse said it could mean more dwelling units.  Mayor Hindman said the dwellings could also be closer together, but with more green space.
    Mr. Patterson said Mr. Lane was incorrect when he said there would be no control over the development as a land disturbance permit is required for the final plat in an R-1 or any other zone.  He said that would protect any climax forests that may be present.

(E)     Revisions to the plans for a skateboard facility in Cosmo Park.
    Item E was read by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck explained that the Council set aside $39,000 during budget discussions toward a skateboard park.  He said since that time, the Cosmopolitan Luncheon Club has indicated they would donate $25,000 toward a project on the north end of the runway, either as an expansion or more permanent facilities to the skateboard park.  He said the staff had prepared a proposal which the Parks and Recreation Commission has reviewed.
    Since the Council approved the original proposal last December, Mr. Hood said the staff had been continuing to work with a group of skateboard enthusiasts on the final plans and construction documents.  He said they had expressed some concern about the staff's plans to construct many of the individual features in the park out of wood or steel, and requested that concrete be considered instead.  The staff response had been that the budget is very limited to approach it from that manner.  Mr. Hood reported the group then visited with the Cosmo Club, and out of those discussions came this potential donation.  Mr. Hood said the overall size of the facility has not changed for the skateboard portion of the project.  The Cosmo Club expressed an interest in expanding the area to include facilities for roller hockey.  About two years ago, Mr. Hood said the Club purchased a portable rink that can be set-up on paved areas for roller hockey, but they have had trouble pinpointing an ideal location for such a facility.  He explained that Cosmo Club asked if the portable rink could be included in the skateboard project.  This would simply be a paving project where an area approximately 100 feet by 200 feet would be paved.  He said the portable rink would be used in the facility.  If Council wishes to proceed with the project, Mr. Hood said the goal is to begin construction this summer, with completion anticipated some time in the fall.
    Ms. Coble asked if the proposed 101 parking spaces were in accordance with a standard.  Mr. Hood said the skateboard facility and the roller hockey area is in a portion of the old concrete runway for the airport.  He said this area had been used for overflow parking when there are large events in the park.  About 72 of these spaces would be lost.  Mr. Hood added that parking is not part of this project at this point.  He anticipated additional parking would be added in the future -- possibly at least 100 spaces.
    While the concrete is more desirable, Ms. Coble asked if there was  enough flexibility given the space to have any different types of obstacles or courses.  Mr. Hood said the concrete would obviously be permanent and flexibility would be lost.  From a liability and a safety point of view, staff believed the concrete to be preferable.  Ms. Coble asked if there would still be some potential for cordoning off part of the new parking should there be a desire for exhibition space.  Mr. Hood thought that would be a possibility.
    Mrs. Crockett thanked the Cosmopolitan Club.
    Eric Wiggin, 1306 Anthony, said he believed the changes would really help promote the park.  With the Cosmo Club willing to donate more money, that shows there is significant community support.  He said it is a bonus to add the roller hockey rink.  Mr. Wiggin reported there is a huge segment of the population that participates in inline skating, and the more people the park would appeal to, the more it would be used and be an overall success.
    Mr. Kruse seconded Mrs. Crockett's appreciation and said the Cosmo Club is a tremendous asset to this community.  He also congratulated the skateboard task force for their tenacity and their willingness to work hard on the issue.  He said this group had accomplished an incredible thing in a very short period of time.
    Mr. Kruse made the motion that the revisions be approved.   The motion was seconded by Mrs. Crockett and approved unanimously by voice vote.

OLD BUSINESS
B137-98     Authorizing an agreement with Ameren/UE for transmission service at Sikeston Plant.

    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck explained that the original contract the City has with UE is expiring.  The Water and Light staff has been working on a new contract, and the good news is that the proposed contract will save the City about $537,000 per year.  He said it has been reviewed by the Water and Light Advisory Board.
    Mr. Malon pointed out that staff had worked very closely with Associated Electric Coop to find out if the City might be eligible for some credits that would lower the transmission cost.  He said computer models were run, and the company finally told the City they could not come down to the price that Ameren/UE offered.  Mr. Malon said with Council approval, the new rate by Ameren/UE would go into effect June 1.  A five year term had been requested.
    Mr. Campbell asked how the new agreement would compare with the past contract.  Mr. Malon said it was difficult to give a real comparison because the Sikeston project costs are currently changing dramatically due to the conversion to Powder River Basin coal, and the energy cost is dropping.  That meant the City would load it much more than has been done in the past.  He said the losses are directly proportional to the load.  Mr. Malon said he showed the current cost at $1.2 million and the cost dropping to $900,000, which is about a $300,000 decrease.  If the City continued with the old contract and loaded up the Sikeston project the way load occurs today, actual costs would probably be closer to $1.5 million.
    B137-98 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  JANKU.  ABSTAINING:  COFFMAN.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:

B143-98     Amending Chapter 14 of the Code to set speed limits on the west outer road along west side of State
                   Road 163 at 35 MPH.

    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck said this is a roadway under state jurisdiction.  He said a joint study had been done by the Department of Transportation staff and the Public Works staff, and the recommendation is to change the speed limit from 45 MPH to 35 MPH.
    Mayor Hindman said this outer road runs in front of Rock Bridge High School, and consists of two lanes with no shoulders or sidewalks.  He said this is an example of why the City needs to continue to work on the problem of development along secondary roads and requiring the installation of pedestrian ways.  He said this is a dangerous situation that really should not exist.  Reducing the speed limit, he felt, made a lot of sense, but said it was far from the solution.
    Mr. Kruse said this is a great location for one of the alternative sidewalks.  Mayor Hindman agreed, but said he did not know what the right-of-way possibilities were.  Mr. Kruse said it might be a good enhancement project.  Mayor Hindman reported this is an example of why the City needed to work on current policies and try to prevent something like this from happening in the future.
    B143-98 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  JANKU.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:

B144-98     Amending Chapter 27 of the Code to require prorating of the monthly charge for water and electric
                   utility service fees.

    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck said it is intended to make this service effective with the first billing in June.
    Mr. Malon explained that the new computer system allows monthly fixed charges to be prorated.  He said if a resident moves on the 15th of the month, they will receive a fixed charge bill for 15 days instead of 30 days.
    Mr. Coffman said this is a great service and appreciates the City's computers are finally sophisticated enough that this kind of accuracy and fairness could be implemented into the billing system.  He thought it would increase the confidence people have in our local utility.
    Henry Lane, 1816 E. Broadway, said this service should have been administered a long time ago.  He stated this will solve the problem for the future, but the problem now is about the past.  He added that people should have the opportunity to apply for a refund.  He noted he has been the only person to receive a refund of an overcharge.  Mr. Lane volunteered his services to assist with the refunding, and he has already filled out a form through the Office of Volunteer Services to do just that.  He said if the City continues to keep raising charges, it is only fair to give citizens the opportunity to get a refund on overcharges.
    Mayor Hindman said the City had been looking into whether or not refunds could be given.  He thanked Mr. Lane for his interest.
    Mr. Campbell thanked Mr. Lane for calling the matter to the Council's attention.
    B144-98 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  JANKU.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:

B145-98     Amending Chapter 27 of the Code as it pertains to seasonal water and electric charges.

    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Malon explained that there are rates that change seasonally, with electric heating being the prime charge where a customer's full electric bill is charged as a residential customer in the summer months, and for the eight remaining months the customer is charged the electric heat rate.  He explained how the new computer software would calculate the figures to make them exact.
    Mrs. Crockett asked if all bills would be computed this way.  Mr. Malon said only those on seasonal rates would be computed like this, and anyone on a regular residential rate would never know the difference.
    B145-98 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  JANKU.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
 

B146-98     Amending Chapter 22 of the Code as it relates to charges for sewage service.

    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Before the election in November for the wastewater $18.9 million bond issue, Mr. Beck said it was explained to the public that in order to finance the bond, the City would have to establish a series of rate increases.  He reported the first increase of 3% is set for June of this year.  For an average homeowner, this computes to an increase of approximately thirty cents per month.
    B146-98 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  JANKU.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follow:

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

B135-98     Vacating a sanitary sewer easement.
B136-98     Accepting conveyances for sewer, street and utility purposes.
B138-98     Accepting grant of easement for water and electric purposes from Casey's Marketing Company.
B139-98     Accepting conveyance for utility purposes from John W. and Renate S. Brady and Francis C. Cline.
B140-98     Accepting various conveyances for utility purposes.
R106-98     Setting a public hearing: construction of a 16-inch water main serving Ewing Industrial Park, Plat 2 and
                   providing for payment for differential costs above those to install a 12-inch water main.
R107-98     Setting a public hearing: replacement and relocation of the water mains along Elm Street, from Hitt
                   Street to Ninth Street.
R108-98     Setting a public hearing: voluntary annexation of property located at the western terminus of Keegan
                   Court.
R109-98     Setting a public hearing: Oakland Park Swimming Pool renovation.

    The bills were given third reading and the resolutions were read with the vote recorded as follows:   VOTING YES:  HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN.   VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  JANKU.  Bills declared enacted and resolutions declared adopted, reading as follows:

NEW BUSINESS
R110-98 Authorizing a contract of obligation with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources to satisfy requirements for a financial assurance instrument in applying to operate the landfill.

 The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
 Mr. Beck said the City is obligated to keep financial assurance with DNR since we operate a landfill.  He explained should the City not follow through on the proper closure or post-closure of a landfill, this agreement would allow the state to deduct financial resources from the City to cover the amount needed.  Mr. Beck said the City would be putting up an obligation of $16,474,073.00.
 Mayor Hindman asked if the City collects money to put in an escrow account to cover the agreement.  Mr. Beck said the City has done so for a number of year.
 The vote on R110-98 was recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  JANKU.  Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:

R111-98 Authorizing an agreement with Central MO Counties Human Development Corporation to provide to the corporation HOME funds to construct two duplexes on Hanover Boulevard.

 The resolution was read by the Clerk.
 Mr. Beck explained that this provides for the usage of $144,650 of federally allocated money that is earmarked to the City by way of HOME funds.  Two additional units for the disabled will be constructed at this location.
 The vote on R111-98 was recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  JANKU.  Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:

  R112-98 Authorizing an agreement with Enterprise Development Corporation for the Home Ownership Assistance Program.

 The resolution was read by the Clerk.
 Mr. Beck explained that this agreement is the continuation of a program for which funds were allocated in the budget.  He said adoption would authorize the agreement.
 The vote on R112-98 was recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  JANKU.  Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:

R113-98 Approving the revised preliminary plat of Victoria South Subdivision.
 The resolution was read by the Clerk.
 Mr. Beck explained that this is an approximate 21 acre tract of land in which 45 single family lots are planned.  He said a wastewater pre-annexation agreement has been signed.
 Mayor Hindman asked if this request would have gone through Planning and Zoning if the property had been located in the City.  Mr. Hancock said it would.  Mayor Hindman understood the Commission's review is not necessary when there is a pre-annexation agreement.  Mr. Beck explained that the request goes through County Planning and Zoning and then City Council, but not the City's Planning and Zoning Commission.  Mr. Hancock said the agreement did not call for that level of review.  Mayor Hindman suggested that the minutes of the County Planning and Zoning meeting be sent to the Council when these plats are reviewed by the City Council.  Mr. Beck said staff would try to make that part of the procedure.
 Mrs. Crockett asked if JCIC has control over the names of the streets.  Mr. Hancock said they do not have control over the names, but their input is sought.  He said there had been a question about one of the names, but apparently an agreement had been reached.  Mrs. Crockett said there were a few others she was not sure she could pronounce if she had to call 911.
 Ms. Coble said it seemed as though there are two names for one street.  Also, there is some question about the mid-point interconnection.  She said it was not identified as to which of the three streets it would be.  Ms. Coble asked where the top of the plat might connect and if there had been any discussion about what was directly to the north.  Mr. Hancock said it would simply stub into unsubdivided ground.  Regarding the one street having two names, Mr. Hancock explained that one of the streets intersects the other.  He pointed out that streets are not named by preliminary plats, but in this case, names were submitted in order to get early comments.
 Mr. Kruse asked how far south this property is from the city limits.  Mr. Hancock thought it was probably one-half to three-quarters of a mile from the City limits.  It was suggested that the plat locator map include the distance to the city limits.
 Mayor Hindman assumed this plat would have all of the sidewalks and services that would be required in the City.  Mr. Hancock said it would depend upon the requirements agreed to in the annexation agreement.
 Mrs. Crockett asked Mr. Hancock if he was comfortable with the street layout.  Mr. Hancock replied he was.
 Regarding the sidewalks, Mr. Beck said he did not recall there being any exceptions in this case and, had there been any, it would have been pointed out in the memo.  It was noted that sidewalks are not identified on preliminary plats.  Mr. Beck said in the future, any pre-annexation agreements would be part of the information sent to the Council.
 The vote on R113-98 was recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  JANKU.  Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:
 

R114-98 Approving the preliminary plat of Stoneridge, Phase 2, a major
 subdivision.
 The resolution was read by the Clerk.
 Mr. Beck explained that 50 R-1 lots are being proposed for this 50 acre tract.  The Planning and Zoning Commission had recommended approval.
 Mayor Hindman noted in reading the minutes, there had been a discussion about sidewalks between the cul-de-sacs.  He said the developer had declined to put them in.  Mr. Hancock said that was correct.  With the School District's announcement about cutting back on transportation, Mayor Hindman felt it would be in the best interest of the students to have sidewalks.  He explained that the School District measures the distance that a student is from the school by the route that a car has to take rather than the pedestrian distance from the school.  He said when cul-de-sacs are not connected by some type of pedestrian way, the only way one could get to the school would be to use the car route -- which would be significantly further than it would be if the cul-de-sacs were connected.  He said it would have an enormous savings for the schools in the long run to have  pedestrian circulation every block or so.  This could be accomplished by connecting the cul-de-sacs together.  Mayor Hindman explained that although there is no mandatory policy on it, he would like to see it on the final plat in this particular case.
 Mr. Kruse said the Council had received a staff report on interconnections.  Mayor Hindman said that was true, but no action was taken to make it mandatory in the hopes that there would be voluntary compliance.
 Mrs. Crockett said many people move to a cul-de-sac because they are quiet and there is less traffic.  Mayor Hindman said there would not be additional traffic.  Mrs. Crockett said if there is a pedestrian accessway, there would be an increase in bicycles and people in the area.
 Mr. Kruse thought if the Council required the accessway, there would be a lot of new creative thinking in terms of how the streets, lots, and sidewalks are laid out.  He said it is assumed the connections would be a pedestrian way between two houses, but he thought cul-de-sacs would be laid out differently to accommodate privacy.
 Mr. Campbell said he understood what was being said, but noted there are also cul-de-sacs to the west that are not shown on the map.  He asked if the Council is going to require connections in all different directions.  Mayor Hindman asked if there are cul-de-sacs to the west.  Mr. Campbell said it had already been platted, but not built.  Mayor Hindman asked if the plat had been approved.  Mr. Campbell said it had, and asked as a policy, which ones should be connected.  Mayor Hindman said that would be one of the things staff would have to help determine.  He would be inclined to connect as many cul-de-sacs as possible.
 Mr. Campbell said he agreed in principle, but thought the Council should look at how the whole neighborhood is laid out because if there is some commercially zoned property in the area, the walking traffic is more likely to go down the pedestrian ways to the shopping area.
 Mrs. Crockett felt the issue would take care of itself.  She said if people want to buy on a cul-de-sac and they find out that their child has to walk two to three miles to school, they would have to decide if they wanted to buy a home closer to the school so the child would not have to walk so far.  She said maybe then the developers, if homes on cul-de-sacs do not sell, will possibly connect cul-de-sacs in some way or another.
 Ms. Coble pointed out that the City has seen many changes in neighborhood designs and plats.  She said what is proposed is a classic example of the new love of cul-de-sacs.  She did not know that would always hold true in the future.  Ms. Coble thought that is a good reason to look at some interconnections and sidewalks.  She stated this is less about neighborhoods and, in the future, it might be more important to have some pedestrian ways through neighborhoods.
 Don Stohldrier, 4016 Glen Eagle, owner and developer of the tract, offered to ask any questions.  Mayor Hindman asked how he felt about connecting the cul-de-sacs.  Mr. Stohldrier said he respected the Council's opinion and understood the concerns; however, his personal view and the views of people he spoke to is that people buy on cul-de-sacs because of privacy issues.  He said this subject had been approached in another subdivision, and they had been told, overwhelmingly, that residents who live on cul-de-sacs do not want people walking between homes.  Residents felt it is a security risk and do not want it.  Anyone he has ever talked to about it has been dead set against the pedestrian access.  Mr. Stohldrier said he hoped the Council would do a study on the issue before making any kind of a mandatory requirement.
 Ms. Coble asked Mr. Stohldrier if he thought there might be an interesting parallel that could be drawn between the absolute opposition to greenbelts or trails, and the fact that now it has been determined that these amenities actually increase the property value of homes and businesses.  Mr. Stohldrier did not know that he had every heard anybody complain of a greenbelt or a trail that ran through a common area.  He did not know of anyone that was excited about a greenbelt or a trail running next to their house.
 Mr. Kruse said he had one and he was very excited about it.  Mr. Stohldrier said everyone was entitled to their own opinion, but the people he had talked to would not be excited about it in a good way.
 Mr. Kruse suggested adding the issue to the potential list of retreat topics.
 The vote on R114-98 was recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  HINDMAN, COBLE, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSENT:  JANKU.  Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:
 The following bills were introduced by the Mayor, unless otherwise indicated, and all were given first reading:
B147-98 Voluntary annexation of property located on the east side of State Route KK, south of Mill Creek; establishing permanent zoning in District R-1.

B148-98 Voluntary annexation of property located on the south side of New Haven Road, east of the City limits.

B149-98 Voluntary annexation of property located on the east side of Scotts Boulevard, south of Hinkson Creek; establishing permanent zoning in Districts C-P and R-1.

B150-98 Voluntary annexation of property located on the east side of Grant Lane, south of City limits; establishing permanent zoning in District R-1.

B151-98 Accepting conveyances for water utility purposes.
B152-98 Authorizing the construction of 16-inch water main serving the Ewing Industrial Park, Plat 2; providing payment for the differential cost; appropriating funds.

B153-98 Authorizing replacement and relocation of the water mains along Elm Street, from Hitt Street to Ninth Street; determining work will be done by city employees.

B154-98 Appropriating funds to pay for legal and other fees and the dissolution election costs for the Water District No. 2 lawsuit and merger.

B155-98 Amending Chapter 27 of the Code relating to water service for fire protection and fire protection facilities.

B156-98 Amending Chapter 6 of the Code relating to swimming pools.
B157-98 Amending Chapter 29 of the City Code to establish an historic preservation overlay district.

B158-98 Confirming the contract of Emery Sapp and Sons, Inc. for construction of improvements at Columbia Regional Airport.

B159-98 Authorizing agreement with Columbia School District for the development of Grant School playground; appropriating funds.

B160-98 Accepting $25,000 donation from Columbia Cosmopolitan Luncheon Club; authorizing construction of a skateboard facility; appropriating funds.

B161-98 Approving the O-P Development Plan of Boone Hospital Medical Park, Phase 2.

B162-98 Imposing a moratorium on new live adult entertainment businesses.
 
 

REPORTS AND PETITIONS
A) Boeing Airport Agreement.
 Mr. Beck explained that after discussions and review with representatives of Boeing, it had been indicated that Columbia is the only city in which an agreement was established.  In addition, Boeing has withdrawn their request to extend the agreement.
 Mayor Hindman proposed that a packet be compiled and sent to Boeing containing the comments heard earlier this evening, along with letters that have been received and a copy of the petition.  He thought the company should be aware of the public input.  Mr. Beck agreed that this information should be sent to Boeing.
 Mrs. Crockett reported that she had three individuals who came to her office and indicated their support of the Harrier testing.  Since being on the Council, she noted that any time repairs have been made at the airport, 90% of those costs have been paid for by the FAA.  She said an airport is an airport and there would always be noise.  Mrs. Crockett said as Columbia grows, she thought the airport would continue to grow.  She had no problem with sending a packet to Boeing.
 Mayor Hindman made the motion that a packet be put together and sent to Boeing.  The motion was seconded by Ms. Coble and approved unanimously by voice vote.

B) Transfer of Funds Request.
 Report accepted.

C) Street Closure Request.
 Mr. Beck explained the street closure request for the 40th Annual Art in the Park celebration submitted by the Columbia Art League.
 Mr. Campbell made the motion that the request be approved as submitted.  The motion was seconded by Mrs. Crockett and approved unanimously by voice vote.

D) Proposed Revision to the Zoning Ordinance Regarding Day Care Establishments in R-2 as a Conditional Use.

 Mr. Beck said if the Council concurred with the recommendation, the next step would be to have a public hearing before the Planning and Zoning Commission, who would then report back to the Council.
 Ms. Coble made the motion that the revisions be forwarded to the Commission.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Campbell and approved unanimously by voice vote.

E) Attendant Care Policy.
 Mr. Beck said a question had come up regarding an attendant policy for board and commission members.  Questions may arise regarding relatives as attendants, but he thought these issues could be specified in the City's Administrative Rules.  Mr. Beck explained that when the Disabilities Commission was formed, this had been the first issue to be reviewed so a recommendation could be submitted to the Council.  If the Council is in agreement with the Commission's recommendation, a motion could be made authorizing the same attendant care travel expense policy for non-employees permitting travel on City business as it applies to City employees.
 Mayor Hindman made the motion that the same attendant care travel expense policy for non-employees authorized to travel on City business be permitted as it applies to City employees.   The motion was seconded by Ms. Coble 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:
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
Plemmons, Gail J., 17 Aldeah, Ward 1 - term to expire 1/1/99

CULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMISSION
Griggs, David R., 6420 Hwy. VV, County - term to expire 4/1/99

DISABILITIES COMMISSION
Logan, Leilani C., 1546 S. Pecos Ct., County - term to expire 6/15/01
Morris, Jerry R., 2010 Vine St., Ward 3 - term to expire 6/15/01
Weston, Dovie S., 4316 Forum, Ward 5 - term to expire 6/15/01

HOUSING AUTHORITY
Rogers, Genie, 1400 Business Loop 70 E, Ward 2 - term to expire 5/31/02

PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION
Barth, Robert J., 1911 Wolcott, Ward 2 - term to expire 5/31/01
Devine, Daniel J., 2709 Pine, Ward 3 - term to expire 5/31/01

BOARD OF PLUMBING EXAMINERS
Moosmann, Gus, 3009 I-70 Drive N.W., Ward 2 - term to expire 5/31/00
Schulz, James W., 1716 Stirling Ct., Ward 5 - term to expire 5/31/00

PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION
Moisey, Lisa W., 1316 Woodhill Road, Ward 4 - term to expire 5/31/00

PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION (cont.)
Wade, Jerry L., 1221 Bradshaw, Ward 4 - term to expire 5/31/03

COMMENTS OF THE COUNCIL, STAFF, AND PUBLIC
 Ms. Coble said she had been told by many people that they are having difficulty getting to work at off hours when public transportation does not run.  These individuals used to rely on cab service that is no longer available.
 Ms. Coble made the motion that the staff be directed to prepare a report to see what types of alternative transportation, or what uses of public transportation could be made available to address the fact that taxi service has been reduced significantly in the City -- particularly in the First Ward.  Further, to see if it is something that could be addressed with the Chamber, REDI, and others to determine if it is business conditions, or what might be done in terms of public transportation resources.  She asked for a report outlining options or possible solutions that would be available.
 Mayor Hindman said he had received several calls about something happening to the taxi service.  He thought it would be a good idea to look into it.
 The motion made by Ms. Coble was seconded by Mr. Kruse and approved unanimously by voice vote.
 Mr. Campbell said he had recently received a number of calls concerning tree trimming in his Ward.  He said one group had proposed undergrounding their utilities.  He thought that is something that should be encouraged if at all possible.
 Mr. Campbell made the motion that the staff be directed to prepare a report that would look into neighborhood improvement districts, and how this could be made amenable to residents who want to avoid tree trimming by undergrounding the utilities.  He further motioned that the report be added to the retreat agenda.  The motion was seconded by Mayor Hindman and approved unanimously by voice vote.
 Mr. Kruse said earlier in the evening, the Council spoke about the need for better pedestrian accessibility on the outer road at the south Providence corridor area.  He said it just occurred to him that with the AC improvement and the improvement at the intersection of Nifong and Providence, he thought sidewalk alternatives are being considered for the crossing.  Mr. Beck said he had just received a report on it, but had not had a chance to look at the estimated cost at that intersection.  Mr. Kruse knew it would be a tricky situation to plan for pedestrians, but he still agreed with the Mayor that it is very important to figure out a way to do so.  Mr. Kruse thought while at the same time, a plan for additional pedestrian accessibility along the outer road should tie into this project as well -- perhaps extending from Carter Lane to Rock Bridge High School.
 Mr. Kruse made the motion that staff be directed to look at options for pedestrian/bicycle ways along that corridor.  The motion was seconded by Mayor Hindman and approved unanimously by voice vote.
 Mayor Hindman commented that he is delighted to note that construction is beginning on the Bear Creek Trail.  He said it would be a terrific amenity to the north side of town.
 The meeting adjourned at 9:25 p.m.
      Respectfully submitted,
 
 

      Penny St. Romaine
      City Clerk