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
© 2024 City of Columbia