M I N U T E S
CITY COUNCIL MEETING - COLUMBIA, MISSOURI
MARCH 6, 2000

INTRODUCTORY
    The City Council of the City of Columbia, Missouri met for a regular meeting at 7:00 p.m., on Monday, March 6, 2000, in the Council Chamber of the City of Columbia, Missouri. The roll was taken with the following results: Council members CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, and JANKU were present. The City Manager, City Counselor, City Clerk, and various Department heads were also present.
 

APPROVAL OF MINUTES
    The minutes of the regular meeting of February 21, 2000, as well as the minutes of the special meeting of February 28, 2000, were approved unanimously by voice vote on a motion made by Mrs. Crockett and a second by Mr. Campbell.
 

APPROVAL AND ADJUSTMENT OF AGENDA INCLUDING CONSENT AGENDA
    Mrs. Crockett asked to have B52-00 removed from the Consent Agenda and placed under Old Business.
    Mr. Campbell made the motion that Mrs. Crockett be allowed to abstain from voting on B60-00 and B61-00. The motion was seconded by Mr. John and approved unanimously by voice vote.
    Mr. Coffman noted that an ineligible speaker had requested to speak under Scheduled Public Comments. He asked that the Council waive that rule due to the urgent situation at Walnut Woods.
    Mr. Coffman made the motion that the speaking rule be waived for Shelly Shields. The motion was seconded by Mayor Hindman and failed by voice vote. (Crockett abstained).
    Mayor Hindman explained that Ms. Shields would be able to speak at the end of the meeting under Public Comments.
    The agenda, as amended, including the Consent Agenda, was approved unanimously by voice vote on a motion made by Mr. Janku and a second by Mr. Coffman.
 

SPECIAL ITEMS
    Mr. Beck introduced the new Assistant City Manager, Paula Hertwig-Hopkins. The City Clerk administered the oath of office. Ms. Hertwig-Hopkins commented that she had attended the University here and that it was a great pleasure to be back in Columbia.
 

SCHEDULED PUBLIC COMMENTS
    None.
 

PUBLIC HEARINGS
B399-00     Approving a revision to the O-P Development Plan of The Environment.
    The bill was read by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck explained that this issue had been tabled several times and the latest revision shows the sign being moved to a location where it can be seen from Forum Boulevard. He understood this would involve the removal of a Bradford Pear tree.
    Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
    Skip Walther, an attorney with offices at 700 Cherry, spoke on behalf of the owners. He noted that the plan had been to place the sign in the right-of-way, but the staff had significant reservations about doing that. He explained the current proposal is to move the sign back onto their property (out of the right-of-way), but to do that would necessitate the removal of a Bradford Pear as the sign would not be visible to motorists traveling from the south. The applicant proposes to cut down the pear tree and replace it with two new trees on the east side of the property. The type of trees would be the City's choice. Mr. Walther reported this is an interior lit sign that would be made out of aluminum. He stated there will be no exterior lights illuminating it.
    Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
    B399-99 was read with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
 

B60-00     Rezoning property located on the south side of Southampton Drive on both sides of John Garry Drive
                 from District O-1 to District C-P; approving the "Corporate Lake" C-P Development Plan.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck explained that this 4.5 acre tract is located in south central Columbia. He noted the request was recommended for approval by staff as well as by the Planning and Zoning Commission subject to allowed uses in C-1 districts.
    Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
    Bruce Goebel, architect for the developer with offices at 33 E. Broadway, commented that Mr. Lewis has created something very unique at this location. He explained that half of the tract would be used for offices and the other half would be restricted to shopping. He noted the project has strong neighborhood support. Mr. Goebel reported that the sidewalk along the lake would be more of a promenade as it would be 12 to 15 feet wide. Because there has been some discussion relating to the sidewalk width on the west side of John Garry Drive, he stated that Mr. Lewis is voluntarily willing to construct it to a five foot width. Mr. Goebel explained that the lighting in the development will consist of Colonial type carriage light that currently exists in the residential subdivision. He related that the lights can have cut offs in them in order to avoid spillage of light outside the area. He said there will be some accent lighting on the buildings. Mr. Goebel displayed renderings of the buildings.
    Bill Crockett, project engineer with offices at 2608 N. Stadium, noted that the promenade will be a well-decorated and lighted walkway with benches leading to a C-1 undeveloped tract to the south. He stated the walkway will tie the two areas together. Along Southampton Drive, Mr. Crockett pointed out that the developer has paid the differential cost to have the proposed overhead transmission lines buried.
    Randy Macon, 3704 W. Rollins, explained that he is familiar with this property and commented Mr. Lewis was one of the first developers that began utilizing the concept of a mixed use community. Mr. Macon related that the development started out with residential condominiums, and then a day care center, a retirement community, and some office and light commercial uses were added. He believed that Mr. Lewis had thought through this proposal very carefully from its inception. Mr. Macon reported the neighborhood is very much in favor of this proposal.
    John Keller, 21 N. Cedar Lake Drive, explained that his home is just south of the subject tract. He expressed his overall approval of the development and said he was looking forward to its completion.
    Barbara Kinglsey, 21 N. Cedar Lake Drive, spoke in support of the project. She said it would be a great enhancement for the neighborhood.
    Dave Denton, 808 Canterbury Drive, explained that he was the former owner of Temporary Quarters, Inc., a supplier of temporary housing for corporations and individuals. He noted that he bought several condominiums from Garry Lewis which he has leased to several individuals. The only complaint those tenants had was that they had to drive everywhere. Mr. Denton believed this development would alleviate the need for driving.
    Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
    B60-00 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: CAMPBELL, JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSTAINING: CROCKETT. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
 

B61-00     Establishing permanent R-1 zoning on property located south of St. Charles Road, at the southern
                 terminus of Charlie Goff Drive.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck explained that this permanent zoning request involves an approximate 20 acre tract of land. The zoning had been recommended for approval by both the staff and the Planning and Zoning Commission.
    Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
    Bill Crockett, an engineer with offices at 2608 N. Stadium, offered to answer any questions regarding this low density R-1 request.
    Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
    B61-00 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: CAMPBELL, JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSTAINING: CROCKETT. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
 

B67-00     Authorizing installation of a 12-inch water main along Scott Boulevard from Beach Pointe Drive to the
                 south side of the Katy Trail.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Malon explained that this work was being done in conjunction with highway construction work on Scott Boulevard. The total length of the project is 1,575 feet with the cost estimated at $100,340 -- which was covered in the CIP.
    Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
    There being no comments, Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
    Because this line goes across the Katy Trail at the Scott Boulevard underpass, Mayor Hindman asked if it would be possible, without too much expense, to tap into the line so that a drinking fountain could be placed there. Mr. Malon replied it is possible if the Parks and Recreation Department completes a service application so a meter could be installed.
    B 67-00 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
 

B68-00     Authorizing installation of an 8-inch and 12-inch water main along Business Loop 70 at Creasy Springs
                 Road.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck explained that this project will replace a six inch water main. He noted it was being done in conjunction with the construction of the traffic circle.
    Mayor Hindman noted a triangular area the pipe would go under. He suggested that would be a good location for landscaping as water would be readily available. Mr. Janku understood the original plan included landscaping. Mr. Patterson indicated that was correct, and it would be his department's responsibility to provide for such. He noted they planned to tap into the line for the water irrigation system.
    Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
    There being no comments, Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
    B68-00 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows; VOTING YES: CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
 

(A)     Street Construction on Spruce Drive.
    Item A was read by the Clerk.
    Mr. Patterson explained that this is a public hearing to determine the necessity for reconstruction of Spruce Drive, from Oakland Gravel Road eastward. He noted that Spruce Drive is an unimproved, local residential street approximately 1,200 feet in length. The existing pavement width is approximately 20 feet in a 50 foot right-of-way. Mr. Patterson reported there are no sidewalks and there are open ditches and driveway culverts along both sides of the street. He noted that the street reconstruction project was initiated by a petition from property owners representing 69% of the total abutting footage.
    Mr. Patterson related that a meeting was held with property owners on October 26, 1999, at Oakland Junior High School where staff attempted to solicit sentiment from those in attendance as to street widths, sidewalks, and other features of the project. Those in attendance were generally in favor of the improvements to the street, although he said these comments were not unanimous. He noted there seemed to be a desire for a 20 foot wide roadway, even if parking had to be removed on one side. Although the standard width for a local residential street is 32 feet, Mr. Patterson said staff would suggest, in consideration of the fact that this section of the street is on a cul-de-sac, that a 28 foot width would probably be appropriate. If parking becomes a problem, that issue could be addressed at a future date.
    With regard to sidewalks, Mr. Patterson said there was disagreement as to the need, and whether they should be on one or both sides of the street. He related that staff believed sidewalks should be on at least one side of the street. He noted that construction of walks on both sides would add to the cost of the project as more grading would be necessary and there would also be more impact to existing yards.
    The resolution estimate for the project is $210,000 and in accordance with current City ordinances, Mr. Patterson explained that abutting property owners may be assessed an amount that equals the total residential street portion of the cost. In this case, that cost is estimated at $30 per abutting foot. If the total amount is assessed, approximately $71,000 would be generated leaving the balance to be paid from the annual streets portion of the capital improvement program. If Council wishes to proceed with construction of the road, Mr. Patterson pointed out that it will be necessary to have another public hearing upon completion of the project to determine special benefits to the adjacent properties. He suggested that the Council consider the following benefits at that time: the new curb and guttering will improve the appearance of the adjacent properties and the maintainability; the storm drainage pipes and inlets will provide for better storm water control; the reconstruction will consist of new driveway approaches improving access to the properties; the sidewalk will improve pedestrian safety for residents and property owners in the area; the new street width will provide for more efficient snow removal and street cleaning; and under current policies, the abutting properties will no longer be subject to tax bill maintenance which can be as much as $2.00 per foot per year.
    Mr. Janku asked if sidewalks were to be built on just one side of the street, whether the cost for such would be allocated to the entire project so that it is borne equally by all residents. Mr. Patterson said the only thing assessed under City policy is the local pavement portion of the project cost.
    Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
    Georgeann Pitts, 2505 Spruce, indicated her support for the project. She stated that sidewalks are needed at least on one side of the street.
    Chris Temperlat, 2607 Spruce, agreed with Ms. Pitts' statement in regards to sidewalks.
    Ruth Walter, 2611 Spruce, thought walks were needed on one side and said she supported having the street fixed.
    Marcia Lake, 2410 Spruce, reported that she did not want sidewalks because she did not want the responsibility of snow removal.
    Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
    Mrs. Crockett stated the street needs to be reconstructed and that sidewalks are needed at least on one side of the road. She said if the neighbors want walks on both sides she would have no problem with that. Her preference was for a 32 foot wide street because of the number of cars that park on both sides of it. Ms. Crockett also noted the drainage problems residents experience in the area.
    Mrs. Crockett made the motion that the staff be directed to proceed with the final plans and specifications for a 32 foot wide street with sidewalks on one side. The motion was seconded by Mr. Janku.
    Mr. Coffman wondered about the potential for increased speeding with the wider street. Mrs. Crockett responded as residents will still be able to park on both sides of the street, that will slow the traffic down. She did not think residents would want to remove parking from one side of the street.
    The motion made by Mrs. Crockett, seconded by Mr. Janku, was approved unanimously by voice vote.
    Mr. Patterson indicated staff would work with the neighbors regarding which side of the street to construct the sidewalk as they are not ready to make a recommendation at this point.
 

OLD BUSINESS
B52-00     Calling for bids for the development of Field Neighborhood Park.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Hood explained that a public hearing had been held at the January 18, 2000, Council meeting regarding the proposed development of this neighborhood park. At that time, he explained that the staff presented three options to the Council. A motion had been made directing the staff to proceed with option three. Mr. Hood reported that staff was also instructed to work with the neighborhood association to develop an agreement for the potential use of the building to be retained on the site for possible community use. He related that this ordinance would implement those directions from the Council by authorizing the staff to proceed with development of the park. At the same time, he noted that his department is continuing to work with the neighborhood association and other interested parties to develop an agreement for use of the building.
    Mr. Hood stated the proposed project will include grading, landscaping, walkways, picnic tables, benches, and fencing. He pointed out this would primarily be a passive type of development which would also include playground equipment to be located on the adjacent school property. Mr. Hood stated that if staff is authorized to proceed, they would formalize an agreement with the school district which would come back before the Council for approval.
    Mrs. Crockett spoke in favor of the park, but questioned the parking situation. She noted the possibility of the need for parking spaces in the future and she did not want to see the park torn up to allow for those spaces. Mr. Hood responded that this option simply calls for the establishment of a grassy area immediately around the building, which would allow for the flexibility to provide for parking at some future date.
    B52-00 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
 

B53-00     Calling for bids for the development of the MKT Trailhead Park; appropriating funds.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Hood explained that the staff has been working with the MKT Trailhead citizens committee for almost three years to develop this proposal. He noted that a public hearing had been held on this project in December of 1998, at which time the Council instructed the staff to proceed to develop detailed construction plans and specifications. He commented that they had also been involved with a site clean up of some contaminated soil on the property at that time. Mr. Hood reported the final plans and the clean up of the site have been completed.
    Mr. Hood explained the proposed development for this one-half acre tract located at the corner of Fourth and Cherry Street. If authorized to proceed, he noted that they intend to develop the park in phases with the first phase being the clean up and restoration of Flat Branch Creek bordering the west side of the property. The work will entail removing much of the existing vegetation which has been evaluated and found to be in very poor condition. He said they would then remove the concrete and rubble that has accumulated along the stream bank over the years, and restore it to a more natural condition using limestone boulders and by planting new trees and landscaping materials along the creek. Once the creek restoration is complete, Mr. Hood stated the next phase would be the development of the park facilities. It will include walkways, gazebo, historical markers, and extensive landscaping. Mr. Hood noted staff also suggests that a restroom could be located in the park. The recommendation was that it be bid as an alternate part of the project.
    Because of the difficulty in estimating the actual cost of the stream restoration work, Mr. Hood related that staff believes adequate funds are available to proceed with the entire project, but if the restroom is bid as an alternate, that would give them the flexibility to adjust the project to meet the funds available. In working with the Trailhead Committee, he said they have agreed the restroom should be the alternate item to be bid. The estimated cost for the project is $347,380.
    Mr. Hood recognized the efforts of the Committee in raising private donations to help support the project. They have raised $124,694 at this point. This ordinance will appropriate those funds to the construction project. The balance of the cost of the project will come from a $40,000 National Recreational Trails grant the City received, and funds from the 1991 quarter cent sales tax which was set aside for acquisition and improvements to the MKT Trail.
    Mayor Hindman understood the rock quarries have donated the boulders. Mr. Hood said that was correct. He commented that staff has been working with the local quarries and these businesses indicated a willingness to donate the boulders. He said staff will have to arrange to have the rocks delivered to the site.
    Mr. Campbell asked if the creek will look like the artist's rendering after the project is complete. Mr. Hood believed it would look much better than what has been projected. Mr. Campbell thought it would add greatly to the downtown area.
    Mayor Hindman commented that this park will be a very nice addition for the downtown area. He said the creek is clear most of the time and very pretty. He commented it may seem to be a setback when some of the trees are cleared, but in a few years it will look very nice. Mayor Hindman thanked the Committee for their hard work over the years.
    B53-00 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
 

B55-00     Approving Change Order No. 3; approving the engineer's final report for the 8th and Cherry parking
                 garage project; appropriating funds.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck noted the total cost for this project to be $2,474,718.20. This last change order for the project is in the amount of $36,000 which will be paid out of the parking utility. He noted that the completion of this project concludes the reconstruction of garages south of Broadway.
    B55-00 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:

    At this point in the meeting, Mayor Hindman recognized the arrival of the Chamber of Commerce's Junior Leadership Class. He welcomed the group to the meeting.
 

B58-00     Amending Chapter 22 of the Code relating to landfill rates.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck explained that this amendment would authorize adjustments to the City's rate structure in order to maintain competitive rates at the landfill. He noted that there is space available on this 400 plus acre tract to last the next 70 years or so. Being proposed is a change in rate structure for large users (500 tons plus). Mr. Beck explained that landfills pay into a fund that is used for recycling purposes throughout the state. He said those funds are reallocated out to the cities.
    Mayor Hindman said he could understand the better utilization of the equipment and manpower, but noted the City is in the process of consuming this asset. He asked if the life expectancy of the landfill includes the extra input if refuse from other cities is added. Mr. Beck commented the city has planned ahead substantially in regards to solid waste management. He reported the City actually owns another 400 acres within the county that can be used for a landfill. Mr. Beck reported unless the City finds other ways to finance some of our existing programs, other than the tipping fee at the landfill, we would have to come up with some other source of revenue. He related that the landfill tipping fee supports the recycling program to a great degree.
    Mrs. Crockett said it appears that the more refuse that is taken to the landfill, the lower the price gets, but then with the recycling program not as much goes to the landfill.
    Mr. Janku noted the only captive market the City has is the residential waste and everything else, commercial and outside the City limits, is basically a free market. He asked about the percentage of residential refuse going to the landfill. Mr. Patterson explained residential consists of about 24,000 tons of the 133,000 tons in the landfill. He said the rest of it -- the University, commercial, and the roll-off containers are all market driven and the City has no control over that except our ability to compete with private enterprise.
    Mr. Patterson reported the City's system is driven on two points; the collection of waste and then its disposal. Regarding the concept of disposal, he said what the City is currently doing is very consistent with that philosophy. The goal is to maximize the efficiency in one sense, and in doing so, as the City continues to grow, the more we reduce and the more we will be able to maintain that level going into the landfill at an optimum efficiency level of about 500-600 tons per day. With regard to the use of the capacity of the facility, Mr. Patterson assured the Council that in fifty years we are not going to be disposing of waste in the same manner as occurs today. He said the landfill capacity should be looked at only in what year and vision we can plan for. By marketing the other 30% of the City's landfill capacity, he reported we would still be reserving 50 years of life, really beyond what we would be able to predict disposal means.
    Mr. Janku understood that if we do not maintain the current inflow, as well as attracting more, the City would end up having to increase residential rates. Mr. Patterson agreed the rates would have to be increased for everyone which would be a self-defeating cycle.
    Mr. Campbell remarked that Mr. Patterson had told the Council several years ago that the rates of disposing of recyclable materials was very high - something over $250 per ton. He asked if we do not have a subsidy available to offset that $250 per ton, whether the curbside recycling program would have to be greatly increased in price. Mr. Patterson responded it would.
    With the reduction in the rate, Mr. John said the City is anticipating an increase in the actual volume which would translate to an increase in net revenue. Mr. Patterson said that is what they hoped to see from it. Mr. John asked if there were any estimates on it. Mr. Patterson replied that would depend on how much can be attracted. He noted it is certain if the outside waste coming in now is not maintained, the City will lose about $700,000 per year on the landfill. Mr. Patterson indicated that will have to be made up by 29,000 accounts.
    Mr. Coffman asked how much trash comes from outside the City limits. Mr. Patterson said it has been estimated to be a little over 30,000 tons per year. Mr. Coffman asked if there was reason to believe, with the lower rates, those numbers could increase from outside the City. Mr. Patterson believed that to be true because a lot of things are also happening in surrounding communities -- like rebidding hauling services. He pointed out the City also stands the chance of losing a lot of it.
    In terms of trying to keep a comprehensive solid waste program under City control, Mr. Janku thought this amendment was the right thing to do.
    B58-00 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
 

B66-00    Voluntary annexation of property located on the west side of Lake of the Woods road, north of
                 Evergreen Acres Subdivision.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck explained that this is an approximate four acre tract. He noted that a final plat has been submitted for review and permanent R-1 zoning is being sought for the tract.
    B66-00 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
 

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

B54-00     Calling for bids for construction of sidewalks along West Ash Street.
B56-00     Approving Change Order No. 1; approving the engineer's final report for the Glen Eagle drainage
                 project.
B57-00     Authorizing the acquisition of easements necessary to construct the Parkade heights storm water
                 drainage improvement project.
B59-00     Authorizing a cooperative agreement with Boone County relating to 2000 revenue sharing funding for
                 improvements to Vandiver Drive.
B62-00     Approving the final plat of McAlester Plaza; authorizing a performance contract.
B63-00     Approving the final plat of Vanderveen Crossing, Plat No. 3-A, a replat of part of Vanderveen Crossing,
                 Plat No. 3; authorizing a performance contract.
B64-00     Approving the Final Plat of a Replat of Lot 2 of Sedona Villas, Plat 1.
B65-00     Vacating portions of a street right-of-way and easements located within Plat No. 3 of Vanderveen
                 Subdivision.
B69-00     Accepting easements for water utility purposes.
R36-00     Setting a public hearing: installation of an 8-inch water main serving Quail Creek, Plat 1.
R37-00     Setting a public hearing: transfer of a cable television franchise from Falcon/Capital Cable, L.P. to
                 Charter Communications Corporation.
R38-00     Setting a public hearing: 1999 CDBG & HOME Performance Report.

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

    Regarding B54-00, Mayor Hindman noted new sidewalks will be built five feet wide along West Ash Street. He observed some walks will also be replaced and apparently some of the replacements will be five feet wide and some of them will be four feet wide. He asked why that was. Mr. Patterson noted that the only walks being replaced at four feet are where there are sections in the middle. He said they could replace the sections at five feet, although it would be a little irregular on those where there would be four feet going in. Mayor Hindman said he would rather see the replacement put in at five feet so that when the other wears out it would all be five feet. Mr. Patterson said that could be done with a change in the plan.
    Mayor Hindman made the motion that the replacement of the four foot sections be made five foot wide sections. The motion was seconded by Mr. Janku and approved unanimously by voice vote.
 

NEW BUSINESS
R39-00     Authorizing an agreement with Crawford, Murphy & Tilly for engineering services at Columbia
                 Regional Airport.
    The resolution was read by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck explained that this will provide engineering service to rehabilitate the lighting control system at an estimated cost of about $37,000 under a 90/10 match from the FAA.
    The vote on R39-00 was recorded as follows: VOTING YES: CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:
 

R40-00     Approving guidelines for the City of Columbia Convention and Visitors Bureau Tourism Development
                 Program.
    The resolution was read by the Clerk.
    Lorah Steiner explained that the Advisory Board spent a lot of time on the proposed guidelines for the C&VB Tourism Development Program. She explained that they used guidelines from approximately 20 other cities around the country for comparison. Ms. Steiner reported this program is fairly innovative and they have not seen too many others like it among the bureaus in the United States. She said the Board thought this would be a working program and the first year they would be looking at the results and obtaining public input. Ms. Steiner explained the Board could then review the guidelines for next year's program and make any necessary revisions. Mr. Campbell noted that many things mentioned in the guidelines may overlap with the Cultural Affairs activities. He asked how the Board planned to ensure these activities are coordinated. Ms. Steiner explained that she and Martha Hills had already discussed this issue and the two boards are working closely together. She noted some public education sessions are planned so that when individuals apply for funding, with either the Office of Cultural Affairs or through the Bureau's program, they can make sure these people know where they are best going to be served. Ms. Steiner believed it was more of an education process than anything else.
    Referring to the check list, Mr. John noted that the guidelines call for a detailed event budget from the most recent year of operation or a proposed budget. He asked why the Board would not just ask for the present year's budget. Ms. Steiner responded the language "proposed budget" was chosen because the event guidelines also apply to first time events. She indicated there might be some instances where someone has no budget from the previous year, thus the Board would be reviewing a proposed budget for an event. Mr. John asked why the Board would not want a proposed budget for the next event. He said it reads to him that a group can give them a budget from last year or their proposed budget, but did not have to give the current year's budget if they gave last year's budget. He perceived that as an "or" -- not an "and". Mr. John said his point was that he would not be comfortable with the City providing funds for something unless there was a detailed budget for what the group would be spending it on and what it would be generating in revenue. Ms. Steiner agreed with Mr. John and she thought that was an omission that should be corrected.
    Mr. John asked about advertising beyond the two hour drive time. He indicated he would like to see some type of matching funds rather than the City paying 100% of the cost. Ms. Steiner explained that many of the events for which funding will be applied for have either not had an advertising budget or have had a very minimal advertising budget. She reported the objective is to extend this group's advertising reach outside the two hour radius because the intent is not only to bring visitors in, but hopefully to bring them in overnight. In most cases, Ms. Steiner thought the City would not be augmenting an existing budget that would reach that far, but providing dollars for a first effort. She believed the Bureau could also help with identifying target markets for the event.
    Mr. Janku asked what type of outreach program is planned for some of the organizations in the community that may not be as involved in tourism at the present time, but might be able to participate. Ms. Steiner said the Tourism Council, which is comprised of about 24 different organizations within the city that are either heavily impacted by tourism or heavily impact tourism, is helping them with that outreach. She noted the Board does plan an advertising campaign relating to the program. She indicated they also plan to offer educational sessions. Ms. Steiner stated they want as much public input in this process as possible in order to reach these organizations.
    Mr. Janku noted that the Cultural Affairs Commission has a modest budget set aside for small, last minute items. He asked if the Board planned to address that. Ms. Steiner thought the Board's feeling was that it should be up to the Council's discretion. She imagined the first year they would not have it if it follows other similar programs they have seen. Ms. Steiner related the Board believes they will not receive as many applications as could potentially be funded. They thought this would increase each year and possibly by the third year they would probably receive more applications than they could afford to fund. Ms. Steiner said the Board had set a minimum application amount at $2,500 with the reason being that they want to enhance an event or a festival enough that it would reach a new audience or a new demographic. She noted with smaller amounts they would not necessarily be meeting that objective. The more overnight visitation they have, the more taxes are generated -- the more taxes generated, the more they can keep the program going and the more they can do. Ms. Steiner indicated this is a self-fulfilling process.
    Mr. Janku commented that he was pleased to see on the list of activities a category for off-season sports development. He said there are many people that travel to participate in events, and those types of activities can have a very positive impact in terms of tourism in Columbia.
    Mr. Campbell complimented the Board for their hard work. Since this is a new program, he cautioned them about getting locked into budgets where there is not flexibility for some brilliant new idea that comes up that may require a substantial outlay of money. Mr. Campbell asked that the Board revisit this issue to assess how the process is working and determine if any modifications are necessary. Ms. Steiner said the Board absolutely agrees on this point -- this program will be a work in progress.
    Ms. Steiner pointed out that the guidelines for attraction development are not addressed in this document. She reported the Board did not think they could do justice to both in the amount of time they had to pull the guidelines together. Ms. Steiner indicated the current guidelines before the Council just addresses the event funding. The Board hopes to begin discussing the attraction development guidelines by early fall or late summer.
    Ms. Crayton commented that she would like to see more cultural diversity in the events that are offered to citizens in Columbia. Ms. Steiner noted that as a result of this program, the C&VB Board will be able to fund some of the things the Office of Cultural Affairs is currently funding to alleviate some pressure on their budget. She believed there will be an increase in cultural activities with greatly enhanced festivals and events.
    Mayor Hindman noted this program will create the potential for an enormous impact on the City. He said its primary purpose is to attract tourism, but at the same time they also should keep in mind the positive benefits it should have for the citizens of the community. Mayor Hindman commented it was obvious the guidelines had been carefully considered.
    The vote on R40-00 was recorded as follows: VOTING YES: CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU. VOTING NO: NO ONE. Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:
 

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

B70-00     Authorizing construction of an 8-inch water main serving Quail Creek, Plat 1; authorizing payment
                 of differential costs; appropriating funds.
B71-00     Accepting easements for utility purposes.
B72-00     Authorizing agreements with UMC and Professor James R. Davis in connection with the EPA Clean
                 Water Act Phase II Storm Water Regulations; appropriating funds.
B73-00     Approving Change Order No. 1 and the engineer's final report for the Nifong Boulevard and Bethel
                 Street intersection improvement project.
B74-00     Calling for bids for street improvements to Fourth Avenue from Garth Avenue to Providence Road.
B75-00     Calling for bids for construction of the C-6 Bearfield Subdivision Lagoon Interceptor.
B76-00     Amending Chapter 14 of the Code to prohibit parking on the north side of Forest Avenue from Grand
                 Avenue to Providence Road.
B77-00     Change street name from "Charlie Goff Drive" to "Kipling Way."
B78-00     Approving the Final Plat of Wellington Manor Plat 2; authorizing a performance contract.
B79-00     Authorizing an agreement with TeleCorp Realty, L.L.C. to lease site for an antenna.
B80-00     Authorizing a right of use agreement with Williams Communications, Inc.
B81-00     Approving the transfer of a cable television franchise from Falcon/Capital Cable, L.P. to Charter
                 Communications Corporation.
B82-00     Authorizing acquisition of property located at the northwest corner of Bearfield and Nifong for
                 construction of a new fire station.
 

REPORTS AND PETITIONS
A)     Intra-departmental Transfer of Funds Request.
    Report accepted.
 

BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
    None.
 

COMMENTS OF THE COUNCIL, STAFF, AND PUBLIC
    Regarding the Walnut Woods situation, Mr. Beck noted that the Council briefly discussed a report submitted by Mr. Steinhaus at the pre-Council dinner regarding the City's social service programs. He explained the bottom line is that no Council action has been suggested at this time based on community donations received as of March 10th. Mr. Beck noted the Council may wish to consider what additional support might be appropriate at the March 20th Council meeting.
    In view of the urgency of the time constraints, Mr. Campbell asked that the staff have the proper legislation prepared so it could be considered at the next meeting. Mr. Beck said it could be done by resolution because CDBG funds have previously been appropriated. Mr. Campbell indicated he would like to see a resolution on the next meeting agenda that would appropriate money from the CDBG to the fund should the Council so desire.
    Mr. Janku asked if there were any other funds such as the social services budget and/or Council contingency funds that might have less restrictions than the CDBG money. It was decided the staff would make the determination as to what fund the money could be taken from.
    Ms. Crayton asked about the possibility of getting some of the City's recycled paint for spring fix-up projects in her Ward. Mr. Patterson replied that he would look into it and get some information back to her. Ms. Crayton reported she would also like to know what other materials might be available for this use.
    Ms. Crayton asked about neighborhood gardening. It was mentioned that the Parks and Recreation Department offers a community gardening program. Mayor Hindman remarked that there is also a private organization engaged in these activities.
    Mr. Janku noted that Library would be temporarily relocating to an area off of Park DeVille and West Broadway. He reported there are a couple of gaps in the sidewalk network in this sector. He also remarked on the possibility of a new elementary school being constructed in this area as well. Mr. Janku asked for a staff report on the possibility of filling in the sidewalk gaps, and for staff to determine whether there is a need for any additional pedestrian safety improvements along Fairview and possibly Worley. He noted this is in a CDBG eligible area.
    Mr. Janku made the motion that the staff be directed to prepare a report per his suggestions. The motion was seconded by Mayor Hindman and approved unanimously by voice vote.
    Referring to the correspondence from the Library and the Cultural Affairs Commission regarding the La Columba piece, Mr. Janku stated the Council needs to make a decision as to what action should be taken. Mr. Campbell noted that staff is working on a report regarding this issue.
    Mr. Janku touched on the Airport Master Plan and indicated he thought the City should begin working with the appropriate entities to start developing standards and guidelines.
    Mr. Janku made the motion that the issue be referred to the Airport Advisory Board so they can begin public discussions.
    Mr. John related that he would like to see the Board look at different options of protecting the airport from unwanted encroachment in regards to its continued development. He spoke about the negative impact of allowing a residential subdivision to be developed under the flight lines.
    Mr. Patterson said the key for land use planning in this area around the airport is to identify what should be done now and in the future. He noted that this project is being very closely coordinated by the Airport Advisory Board. Once a plan is identified, Mr. Patterson remarked the implementation of a protective and long term plan would have to be incorporated by the government bodies in the county, the surrounding cities, and ourselves. He reported the Board's first task will be to identify what needs to be protected and what best land uses will support the airport. Mr. Patterson indicated the Plan should be completed sometime this year.
    Mrs. Crockett announced that Friday, March 10, the Hickman girls are going to the Final Four State Basketball Championship at Hearnes. She said the Mayor will be present to read a proclamation. Mrs. Crockett asked everyone to wear purple and gold on Friday.
    Mr. Campbell noted a sudden burst of interest in development in the Clear Creek Watershed. He asked when the Council could expect to receive a report on storm water control. Mr. Patterson replied it would probably be several more months. He related that some of the first meetings are being held this month. Mr. Patterson noted the contract with Mr. Davis expires at the end of this fiscal year, at which time the City should obtain the reports. In a related issue, he explained that staff is pursuing the engineering best management practice ordinance as was directed by the Council. Mr. Patterson reported staff is obtaining examples of what methods are being used in other communities, and he thought perhaps an interim report could be provided to the Council in a month or so.
    Mr. John noted a lot of street renamings and changes of easements and rights-of-ways in newly platted subdivisions on recent agendas. He thought the developer or engineer should be paying for the staff time and expenses. Mr. John said he would like to see a fee implemented to cover the costs for these amendments. He asked for a report containing recommended fees. Mr. Janku thought the street name change issue had been referred to the Planning and Zoning Commission. Mr. John asked that the right-of-way and easement issues be added to that referral.
    Mrs. Crockett did not believe some of those things need to come back through the Council. She said if a street has not been built, she did not know why it would have to come back through the Council.
    Mr. John noted that last fall the Council had discussed the renovations to the Cherry Street garage and had directed after the structure was reopened, staff should review all of the permits, pricing levels and related usage issues. He asked if the staff was still going to do that. Mr. Patterson indicated that staff is presently working on the North Broadway parking study, which he said could take several months to complete. He asked if an interim report on usage would suffice at this time. Mr. John responded that would be acceptable.
    Regarding the new Rock Quarry Park, Mr. Coffman asked when the pedestrian access in the 3400 block of Churchill would be put in. Mr. Hood explained that the entrance is planned as part of the next phase. At this time, he said there is no funding in place for it. Mr. Coffman asked if that was still a few years away. Mr. Hood thought that was a safe guess. Mr. Coffman asked if an opening in the fence at that location is possible. Mr. Hood replied he would look into the situation to see if there was something that could be done in the interim.
    Mr. Coffman noted the need for renovations to the Cliff Drive Park. He remarked there is a steep bank going down into the park area which is hazardous, and a lot of the equipment is in disrepair. Mr. Hood said he would check into it. Mr. Coffman stated that any small improvements that could be made would be very much appreciated.
    Mr. Coffman spoke about a wooden fence that is in disrepair in the Rock Hill Park. He noted there are also a few places along the trail where it is getting rough. Mr. Coffman asked that the staff look into. Mr. Hood responded the maintenance crew would check into it right away.
    Mayor Hindman reported the City had recently been informed that the application for funds from the Highway Department in connection with the box culverts under Stewart and Providence Roads had been denied because too much of it was off of the right-of-way. He asked the staff to determine if there is any way the City could obtain partial funding for the area that is on the right-of-way. Mayor Hindman noted it would take a substantial amount of bicycle traffic off of the intersection. He explained the report the Council received indicated they could authorize staff to proceed with further engineering in connection with the project so they would be ready when the funding came through.
    Mayor Hindman made the motion that the staff be authorized to proceed as suggested in the report. The motion was seconded by Mr. Coffman and approved unanimously by voice vote.
    Mayor Hindman noted that money had been received in connection with the Trailhead Park from the National Recreation Trails Act. He noted this funding is not the same thing as ISTEA money. Mayor Hindman asked if any of that financing might be available for the Providence/Stewart project.
    Mayor Hindman noted that in the Corporate Lake development, the overhead power lines had been buried. He wondered how large the lines were. Mayor Hindman remarked the Council is always told there is a large expense involved in burying transmission lines, yet the developer was able to do so in this instance.
    Mayor Hindman commented that he had been receiving inquiries about concrete recycling and how successful it is in other communities. He asked if the City could initiate such a program. Mr. Patterson responded this type of venture is more suitable for plants that have equipment for grinding and crushing rock. He noted the City does not own any of that kind of equipment. In addition, we do not have a facility for it and it is expensive. Mr. Patterson was not sure the City would want to make an investment in this type of program when there are private companies doing it. Mayor Hindman asked if there are any businesses in Columbia that recycle concrete. Mr. Patterson answered there are companies that have the capability of doing it.
    Bradley Brown, 41-A Broadview Court, thanked Mr. Coffman for bringing up the Walnut Woods issue earlier relating to the scheduled public comments. He is hopeful more could be done to help the residents of the mobile home park. Mayor Hindman explained the situation and what was being done to alleviate their problems.
    The meeting adjourned at 9:25 p.m.

                                                                                    Respectfully submitted,

                                                                                    Penny St. Romaine
                                                                                    City Clerk