INTRODUCTION
The City Council of the City
of Columbia, Missouri met for a regular meeting at 7:00 p.m., on Monday,
July 19, 1999, in the Council Chamber of the City of Columbia, Missouri. The
roll was taken with the following results: Council Members JANKU, CROCKETT,
CAMPBELL, JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, and CRAYTON were present. The City
Manager, City Counselor, City Clerk, and various Department Heads were also
present.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes of the regular
meeting of July 6, 1999, were approved unanimously by voice vote on a motion
made by Mr. Campbell and a second by Mr. Janku.
APPROVAL AND ADJUSTMENT OF AGENDA INCLUDING
CONSENT AGENDA
The agenda, including the
Consent Agenda, was approved unanimously by voice vote on a motion made by
Mr. Coffman and a second by Mrs. Crockett.
SPECIAL ITEMS
1. Cosmopolitan
Club presentation of $15,000 donation for the Skateboard Park.
Gregory Wingert and Penny
Shephard, representatives of the Cosmopolitan Club, presented the City with
a check in the amount of $15,000. Mr. Wingert explained that last year
the Club had given the City $25,000 toward the skateboard park. He
stated as the Parks and Recreation Department had done a great job with the
skateboard park, Cosmo Club asks that the $15,000 be used to finish the project.
Mayor Hindman accepted the
check with great pleasure, and thanked the Club for all of the benefits the
City has received because of their efforts.
Mr. Beck thanked the Club
for their generous donation and added that it would go a long way toward
supporting the Columbia Trust program -- a program where citizens can make
donations toward public projects to raise the quality of life over and above
the basics. He noted the skate park is heavily used and that the Parks
and Recreation staff had done a great job on it.
Mr. Hood noted that the Club's
original gift to the City, for Cosmo Park, had been in August of 1949. He
thanked them for their 50 years of service and donations. He indicated
the money would be used to put the finishing touches on the Skateboard Park.
SCHEDULED PUBLIC COMMENTS
None.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
B208-99 Rezoning
property located on the south side of I-70 Drive Southeast, east of Glenstone
Drive
from C-3 and M-C to M-1.
The bill was read by the
Clerk.
Mr. Beck noted that the bill
had been amended at the last meeting. He said this request would apply
only to the C-3 zoned land on the north side of the Sapp property. The
request is to rezone Tract A from C-3 to M-1, and Tract B from C-3 to M-C. The
staff recommends approval.
Mayor Hindman reopened the
public hearing which was continued from July 6, 1999.
Manny Burkholder, explained
that Tom Schneider, the attorney representing the applicant, had been notified
of a death in the family just before five o'clock today. Mr. Schneider
had asked Mr. Burkholder to request a further table of the issue to the August
2, 1999, meeting.
Comments were called for
with none received.
Mr. Campbell made the motion
that B208-99 be tabled to the August 2, 1999, meeting. The motion was
seconded by Mr. Janku and approved unanimously by voice vote.
B213-99 Approving
the "Boone Hospital Center Surface Parking" O-P Development Plan.
The bill was read by the
Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained that at
the last meeting the Council had asked for information related to undergrounding
utilities or the reduction of overhead lines in the area. He indicated
Mr. Malon's report outlines the costs associated with both options. In
addition, Mr. Beck noted that the East Campus Neighborhood Association forwarded
a memo to the Council pertaining to the possibility of a pocket park. He
said the staff had not had enough time to discuss the matter. Mr. Beck
reported that he did speak with a representative from Boone Hospital who
felt they would be willing to work on the issue further if they could proceed
with the parking project.
Mr. Campbell asked what would
happen if the Council passed the bill this evening in regard to a pocket
park. Mr. Beck understood the hospital representative to say they are
willing to work something out about the pocket park. He did not think
the Hospital wanted to see the entire project delayed to wait until that
issue is resolved. Mr. Beck said the staff would have to bring a report
back to the Council regarding what conditions have been worked out between
the groups. He felt a City staff member should be involved in discussions
between the hospital and the neighborhood if the City has money involved
in the project, or the responsibility for the maintenance. Other questions
Mr. Beck felt should be addressed included on whose property would the park
be located, and the financial participation in relation to the sidewalk and
pocket park, or whether there would be a combination of some sort of trade-off.
Mr. Coffman understood Mr.
Beck to say he thought the topics the staff should analyze is the City's
potential contribution to the cost of the sidewalk, and who would maintain
the pocket park area. Mr. Beck related it would have to be determined
how the City can legally provide funding for the park if it is not a City
pocket park, and then what the funding source would be. Currently,
there is no money set aside for it, but there is sidewalk money. Mr.
Coffman is interested in what could be done now. When the hospital
begins construction on the parking lot, that would be the time for the other
pieces to be put in place.
Mrs. Crockett felt there
were a lot of unanswered questions and thought it would make sense to table
the issue for another two weeks so that all concerns could be worked out.
Mayor Hindman questioned
why there are power lines on both sides of the street, and wondered if they
could be put on one side. Mr. Malon responded the lines could be moved,
however, the existing poles would have to be replaced with higher ones as
there are facilities in the communication space. He reported the poles
would have to be raised by another ten feet and then GTE would have to actually
move their facilities across the street, or we would have to move ours across
the street. No matter what is done, Mr. Malon said it would be expensive
and GTE is not going to want to pay for it. He thought it would cost
around $150,000 to move the lines.
Mr. Coffman asked if the
$150,000 included accommodating GTE. Mr. Malon said it would not pay
for GTE to actually move their facilities, but it would make space for them.
Mayor Hindman opened the
public hearing.
Tom Trabue, a representative
of Trabue, Hanson, and Hinshaw, explained that Tom Schneider also represents
the Hospital in this matter. With the issues being discussed, Mr. Trabue
thought this issue should be tabled.
Lynn Hostettler, 1204 Hulen
Drive, Manager of Community and Media Information at Boone Hospital, spoke
on behalf of attorney Tom Schneider. He requested that the Council
move forward with approval on the issue because of the time constraints involved. He
said the Hospital would like to have the project completed by this winter. Mr.
Hostettler noted that he and Mr. Schneider have been involved in discussions
with the East Campus Neighborhood Association. The two groups met this
past week and discussed the sidewalk issue along William Street -- especially
the corner of William and Anthony where there is a large locust tree which
would have to be removed to complete the sidewalk. The Board of Trustees,
at their last meeting, approved the funding for the sidewalk which would
cost between $11,000 and $12,000. Mr. Hostettler explained the East
Campus Neighborhood has requested that the Trustees give up one parking space
at the existing lot at the corner of William and Anthony. The Trustee
agreed to do so if outside funding for the extra cost of the pocket park
could be found.
Mr. Campbell asked if there
was a reason why a sidewalk could not be built around the tree mentioned. Mr.
Hostettler said that had been investigated and it was felt because the tree
is on a raised area, it would probably limit the life of the tree to construct
a sidewalk around it.
Mr. John noted that the approximate
$12,000 sidewalk on William Street is not part of the parking lot being built
at this time, but an off-site improvement the Hospital is willing to pay
for. He asked what size the pocket park would be. Mr. Hostettler
thought it would be at least a twenty by twenty area. He said there
was also discussion about the possibility of moving the existing bus stop. Mr.
John asked if additional funding has been found to pay for the additional
costs of a pocket park. Mr. Hostettler said the Hospital would give
up the ground for the park and pay for the sidewalk.
Mr. Janku asked if the City
were to pitch in toward the sidewalk, if the Trustees would have any problem
with reallocating their contribution in ways that would balance out toward
the pocket park. Mr. Hostettler said he could not speak for the Trustees,
but he would assume so, as long as the cost remains approximately the same.
Mayor Hindman said that would
make sense from a public policy point of view. He said the sidewalk
would be a very good addition as it would connect Anthony Street to the sidewalk
system. The City putting in a pocket park on private property would
raise some questions. His inclination was to "kick in" toward a sidewalk
that would fit into the City's plans of having a connected sidewalk system
rather than to invest in a pocket park.
Matt Harline, 301 McNab,
reported the East Campus Neighborhood Association is in support of the O-P
Plan and is also in favor of the issue being passed this evening. He
said the hospital has met with residents and has become a very good partner
with the neighborhood. Mr. Harline believed that approving the O-P
plan would not preclude a pocket park. He felt the sidewalk was a logical
fit on a collector street, and the Association did not feel there was any
legal or moral reason to hold up the process to get the pocket park built. Regarding
the bus stop, Mr. Harline reported the Neighborhood Association felt it would
make sense to have the bus to stop before the intersection, which would include
a bench and maybe a shelter.
Clyde Wilson, 1719 University,
spoke on behalf of the President of the East Campus Neighborhood Association. He
reaffirmed what the two previous speakers indicated. Mr. Wilson said
the residents are very appreciative of the willingness of the Trustees to
work with them on these issues. He asked the Council to approve the
Development Plan.
Mayor Hindman closed the
public hearing.
Mr. Coffman commented about
how great it is to see such a wonderful working relationship between the
neighborhood and the hospital.
Mr. Campbell asked if the
bill is passed, whether further action would be needed. Mr. Beck felt
there were two issues: the first relates to the issue of the parking lot;
and the other being the Council would have to give staff some direction as
to what they wanted done regarding the pocket park. It was decided
that a motion would be made at the end of the meeting.
B213-99 was read with the
vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, JOHN, COFFMAN,
HINDMAN, CRAYTON. VOTING NO: NO ONE. Bill declared enacted,
reading as follows:
B225-99 Approving
the "MFA Breaktime at The Village of Cherry Hill" C-P Development Plan.
The bill was given second
reading by the Clerk.
Mayor Hindman noted that
an amendment sheet had been provided which would further restrict the proposed
uses.
Mr. Campbell made the motion
that B225-99 be amended per the amendment sheet. The motion was seconded
by Mrs. Crockett and approved unanimously by voice vote.
Mr. Beck explained that this
1.8 acre tract is located at the southeast corner of Chapel Hill and Scott
Boulevard. Both the City staff and the Planning and Zoning Commission
recommended approval.
Mayor Hindman opened the
public hearing.
Kurt Kirtley, an MFA representative,
offered to answer any questions.
Mr. Janku asked what had
been done with the lighting.
Jay Gebhardt, a project engineer
with Allstate Engineering, explained that the proposed canopy at this location
was designed differently from the other Breaktimes throughout the community. He
outlined it will consist of an 18 inch canopy that will extend below the
ceiling to direct the lighting downward and prevent it from spilling out. Mr.
Gebhardt also reported the building has been turned to face away from the
intersection. He indicated a lot of the building characteristics will
mimic what is being proposed in The Village of Cherry Hill, which is supposed
to have an older feel to it -- more of an old town type of development rather
than just a standard Breaktime Convenience Store. Mr. Gebhardt also
noted that the signage is much less than what is allowed in straight C-1
zoning, and there will be 37% landscaping.
Mayor Hindman closed the
public hearing.
Mr. Campbell thought the
design was good and that both parties were to be commended. He said
this is a case where Breaktime has been working with the developer to make
sure the architecture is compatible with the neighborhood. Mr. Campbell
thought it was going to be a fine addition to the area.
Mr. Janku suggested that
something could be learned by the lighting in this instance as other developments
have been struggling with the same issues.
B225-99, as amended, was
given third reading with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES:
JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON. VOTING
NO: NO ONE. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
(A) Proposed
ballot issues RE: extension of the 1/4 cent capital improvement sales
tax and
increasing
the City's hotel/motel tax for Convention and Visitors Bureau activities.
Item A was read by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck noted that this
issue deals with the current 1/4 cent capital improvement sales tax and its
extension. He emphasized that this would be an extension of an existing
tax that can be used for capital projects only and cannot be used for day-to-day
operations of City government. The current 1/4 cent tax will expire
at the end of the year 2000, and past practice has been to go to the voters
about every five years to allow a vote on specific issues. The major
programs being proposed would be voted on separately under this sales tax
issue. He indicated the extension of this tax for five years would
generate approximately $19 million.
Mr. Beck explained that the
proposed funding from the 1/4 cent extension would go toward Fire Department
needs, a Community Recreation Center, and the continuation of the current
parks, green belt, and trails program. He noted the Council had also
talked about using the funds to continue the open space program. The
second major issue that is being proposed relates to the hotel/motel bed
tax that would increase the current rate from 2% to 4%.
Regarding capital needs,
Mr. Beck explained that at the Council retreat he presented a five year funding
plan that would not increase the rate of the sales tax nor the property tax
rate for the next five years, unless something very unusual were to arise. He
indicated staff looked to what the needs were in the area of streets, bridges,
sidewalks, and so forth, as the major priority issues that have to be addressed
on a timely basis. Mr. Beck reported staff determined the City has
approximately $48,000,000 available from dedicated sources (federal, County
rebate money, tax bill development fees, transportation sales tax, etc.),
which is an annual level greater than present. It was indicated to
the Council during these discussions that the City would be paying off general
obligation bonds that were issued earlier. It was possible to do this
by using two sources of money; property tax and transportation sales tax
monies. By paying off the bonds in the next two to three years, Mr.
Beck commented the City would be in a position to utilize some of those resources
for road purposes. He noted that transportation sales tax must be used
for transportation purposes.
Regarding Fire Department
needs, Mr. Beck displayed a summary on the overhead and offered to answer
any questions. He reported that to purchase a site for a future fire
station, construct a fully equipped new station, replace major equipment,
and renovate existing fire stations would cost $5.5 million. Mr. Beck
stated that would require the extension of the capital improvement sales
tax by 17 months.
Mr. Beck introduced Naomi
Cupp, Co-Chair of the Mayor's Community/Recreation Committee, and asked that
she give a brief presentation on the proposed Community Recreation Center.
Naomi Cupp summarized a report
that had been presented to the Council at their May 17th, 1999, meeting. She
also reviewed the recommendations that were made at that time. The
Council subsequently directed the Committee to move forward and begin Phase
2 of their work.
Ms. Cupp reported as part
of Phase 2, the Committee developed a framework of components that would
go in the Center. And earlier this month, the Committee presented the
Council with two different designs -- Concept A and Concept B. Concept
A was the more expensive of the two and the Committee realized it was more
than they could expect the community to support. Although, the Committee
will continue to work and see if they can raise some funds for it. Ms.
Cupp explained the Committee is proposing the City proceed with Concept B,
which consists of an approximately 61,000 square foot facility with a single
gymnasium at a cost of $9.5 to $10.5 million. The facility would also
include a weight room, aerobics room, weight/cardiovascular area, a walking
track, a leisure pool, multi-purpose meeting rooms, child care rooms, and
an administrative area. Ms. Cupp noted the larger facility would consist
of 73,372 square feet and was estimated to cost approximately $12.3 million,
but it would contain more gymnasium space, more meeting rooms, and some other
additional things.
Ms. Cupp reported the Committee
has now divided into three different groups. One group is working with
the consultants on the facility design, one group will work on putting together
a campaign in preparation for the November ballot issue, and one group is
committed to finding the extra dollars for the larger facility. She
indicated the consultants are looking at designing something that could be
expanded if the extra funding can be found. Ms. Cupp pointed out that
the proposal in 1994 had been for a Center that was 105,108 square feet. The
proposal this Committee is now recommending contains 60,402 square feet. She
noted the proposal has been scaled down significantly.
Mr. Janku asked if any figures
were available regarding recovery of operational costs. Ms. Cupp said
the proposed operational costs the Committee came up with for Concept B estimates
a 95% recovery cost, and Concept A had a 97% recovery cost. Ms. Cupp
noted with the smaller concept, it would be difficult to have any organized
sporting activities at the Center as league play is assessed user fees. In
addition, a meeting room was eliminated with the smaller design so there
would not be as many rental type activities. However, Ms. Cupp reported
that a 95-97% recovery cost is wonderful. Mr. Janku asked if those
figures are based on experiences of other communities. Ms. Cupp said
that was correct.
Mr. Beck displayed figures
relating to the continuation of the parks, green belt, trails and open
space program. The figures gave a breakdown of how that funding
might be utilized. Mr. Beck reported this information was obtained
from the Capital Improvement Plan that the Council reviews each year with
the staff. He noted the total to be about $3 million, which is equal
to a 10 month extension of the 1/4 cent capital improvement sales tax.
Mr. Beck asked Lorah Steiner
to address the adjustment of the hotel/motel tax. Ms. Steiner
related that three years ago the Convention and Visitors Bureau began a process
to create a master plan for tourism development in Columbia. She said
it was a consensus process involving people from many different segments
of the community. Ms. Steiner reported the master plan was approved
by the City Council in December of 1998, after having been reviewed and accepted
by the Columbia Lodging Association and the Advisory Board for the Convention
and Visitors Advisory Bureau. What came out of the master plan process
was that the Bureau should promote and emphasize Columbia's cultural and
heritage tourism, the central corridor of the Katy Trail (which is accessible
to the millions of people that traverse the City on I-70 each year), all
seasons sports marketing, attraction and festival development and enhancement,
Internet marketing, and exposition marketing.
Ms. Steiner explained how
the funds would be used. She indicated the additional one percent in
funding that would be generated by the new tax would be used strictly for
marketing and promotion, and the other one percent would be used for the
development or enhancement of festivals, events, and attractions that have
substantial potential for generating overnight visitation (at the 2% increase
level this would not be a regressive tax if it is used specifically for purposes
that generate overnight visitation for the City). It would also include
the establishment of a cultural and museum district downtown, and researching
attractions in keeping with Columbia's character.
In terms of using the first
one percent for marketing and promotion, Ms. Steiner explained that Columbia
is up against substantial competition because of new development in the surrounding
competitive cities. She noted some of the larger conventions are being
heavily courted by Branson and Springfield, so Columbia has to increase our
support to retain them. Ms. Steiner reported Columbia has been at an
extreme competitive disadvantage in terms of our marketing budget. She
explained an additional one percent in funding for marketing and promotion
would allow the City to almost double this budget.
Ms. Steiner summarized the
reasons for increasing the lodging tax which included: The Bureau would have
sufficient funds to be competitive in the market place; Columbia would be
able to obtain a fair share of state matching funds, thus allowing us to
maintain our position in the convention market; and, finally, the increase
would allow the City to maintain an adequate fund balance in the event of
a market downturn.
Ms. Steiner explained that
tourism in Columbia helps pay for roads, sewers, as well as police and fire
services. She commented this is funding that does not come out of its
citizen's pockets, but money that is courtesy of our visiting friends.
Mayor Hindman opened the
public hearing.
Richard Lampe, 10406 E. Highway
WW, President of the Mid-Missouri Tourism Council, and Past President of
the Mid-Missouri Restaurant Association, explained that the Tourism Council
is comprised of community leaders in areas that directly affect or are substantially
impacted by tourism. He described the make-up of the group and indicated
they support the recommendation of placing the proposed increase in the hotel/motel
tax on the November ballot. Mr. Lampe summarized the increase in funding
would allow Columbia to be competitive in obtaining our fair share of state
matching funds, the City would be able to maintain a prominent position in
the convention market, it would allow us to maintain a stable market during
rapid hotel growth, the City could develop attractions and events that will
attract new visitors, and Columbia would be able to maintain adequate fund
balances in the event of a market downturn.
Dick Walls, 10 McGregor,
noted that Jefferson City is pressing hard right now for a new convention
center. He observed that Columbian's are fortunate to live in
this great community and have I-70 and U.S. Highway 63 traversing it, but
we need to be able to bring these people in off of the highway.
Henry Lane, 1816 E. Broadway,
spoke in regards to the recreation center. He outlined concerns pertaining
to whether a Center is really wanted or needed, whether it is in a good location,
and will it be self sustaining. He said a similar facility was turned
down in 1994 by the voters. As far as need, Mr. Lane commented the
City already has about 45 parks and recreational facilities, the public schools
have 25 gyms, there are three health clubs, and the University has two swimming
pools. He believed the proposed location for the Center (in the northwest
part of Columbia) would be convenient for the people who live there, but
a long way for most other people. He said one must consider how residents
would get to the Center and noted bus transportation is almost non-existent
on Sundays, and there are no buses running Monday through Wednesday after
6:20 p.m. In addition, Mr. Lane believed the neighborhood is dangerous. As
far as being self-sustaining, he reported in this year's budget the recreational
services fund will be subsidized from the taxpayers by $1.5 million. He
urged the Council not to include the Community Recreation Center issue on
the ballot.
Sandra Logan, Principal of
West Junior High School and a member of the Recreation Center Committee,
explained how busy school gymnasiums are, as well as their meeting rooms
and classrooms. During the summer, she pointed out that some downtime
is needed to resurface the floors and that kind of thing. As far as
the need and location, she felt the survey was very accurate. Ms. Logan
said that students need a place to go after school instead of hanging out
on street corners. She said not only is West Junior High School adjacent
to the proposed site, but many elementary schools are in near proximity as
well. In her five years at West Junior, Ms. Logan said she has never
felt unsafe. She encouraged the Council to be supportive of the issue.
Mike Pickerel, 1309 S. Fairview,
Chair of the Bicycle/Pedestrian Commission, explained that the Commission
has been working at the Council's direction with the City Planning Department
to develop an integrated bicycle/pedestrian network for the metro planning
area. He noted that the Commission is drafting a letter to the Columbia
Area Transportation Study Organization (CATSO) requesting that such work
be incorporated into the CATSO planning efforts in order to include the Boone
County Commission and the Missouri Department of Transportation in this multi-jurisdictional
effort. He said the Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended
such a network within their recommendation to the Council for the Metro 20/20
Community Structure Plan.
Mr. Pickerel asked the Council
to give consideration in their discussion of the upcoming sales tax extension
to include funds to assist in the development of such a network. A
bicycle/pedestrian network could pay dividends for the entire community,
not just to those who use it. Mr. Pickerel noted that the Missourian
reported Lorah Steiner as saying the Convention and Visitors Bureau received
1,180 inquiries from around the country regarding the Katy Trail. He
said right now there is not a good way to get from the Trail to the hotel/motel
corridor along I-70, and in order to use the trail effectively for tourism
promotion, there needs to be such a way to get to the corridor. He
explained this network will do just that.
Mr. Pickerel stated that
based on the Commission's work to date, it appears there is already a general
agreement that such an integrated bicycle/pedestrian network should include,
as its backbone, the completion of a trail loop that circles Columbia --
primarily through the area designated in the 1935 green belt plan. The
trail loop would simply extend the Bear Creek and Hinkson Trails now under
construction by creating greenway trails along Perche Creek on the western
edge of Columbia and along Hinkson Creek on the east side of town. Using
cost figures from the recent development of Bear Creek and Hinkson Trails,
Mr. Pickerel indicated it is the Commission's belief that the estimated 12
to 15 miles of trail required to complete the loop will cost approximately
$4 million. He noted that the City has been successful in the past
in matching funds with Tea-21 funds. Mr. Pickerel believed the City
could receive $2.5 million in funding from the federal government, which
would necessitate a $1.5 million match from the City.
Jerry Price, 1707 Garrison
Place, a member of the Community Recreation Center Committee, observed that
the community recreation center proposal in and of itself was never voted
on by the voters and has never been defeated. In 1994, he reported
there was an all or nothing bond issue that exceeded $30 million. Many
of the items on that 1994 ballot when voted on separately, had passed. Mr.
Price reported the Committee encourages the Council to allow residents the
opportunity to vote on a recreation center individually as well. He
noted the proposal is for a community center, not a gym. It will be
a facility for families to come together that is affordable and accessible
for all. Regarding the old fairground site, Mr. Price believed it to
be an ideal location for such a center. He named all of the nearby
schools and suggested focusing on when the buses run, not when they do not. Mr.
Price commented this is not a bad area of town, and, if anything, a center
would contribute to the aesthetic value of the area.
Terry Skinner, 3716 Lansing,
indicated his support for all of the capital needs projects. Although,
he wondered when the residents on the east side of Columbia will have access
to a trail system. Mr. Skinner would like to see the issue passed,
and encouraged staff to look at the area east of Old 63 for improvement in
access for non-motorized forms of transportation.
Vernon Forbes, 1007 Grand
Avenue, spoke against a community recreation center. He said the City
is not in the entertainment business and should provide infrastructure, police
and fire protection.
Fran Pope, 2407 Lynwood,
spoke in favor of the extension of the 1/4 cent tax, and the pedestrian network
and park development in particular. She said the trail network is something
that has obviously been very successful in Columbia. Ms. Pope would
like to see a trail network that she could feel safe about putting her children
on. She said the pedestrian network being proposed would provide that.
Don Turpin, 2904 Clark Lane,
a hotel manager in town, spoke as a member of the Lodging Council. He
said they felt that Ms. Steiner and the Advisory Board have done an exemplary
job in the past, and that the increase would be a very good thing. He
urged the Council to put it on the ballot.
Mayor Hindman continued the
public hearing to the next meeting.
OLD BUSINESS
B223-99 Approving
the final plat of Bluff Creek Office Park, Plat 3-H.
Mayor Hindman noted that
a letter had been received with a request to withdraw this plat.
Mr. Coffman made the motion
that B223-99 be withdrawn. The motion was seconded by Mrs. Crockett
and approved unanimously by voice vote.
B226-99 Approving
the final plat of Forum Heights; authorizing a performance contract.
The bill was given second
reading by the Clerk.
Mayor Hindman noted that
a request had been received to table this issue.
Mr. Campbell made the motion
that B226-99 be tabled to the August 16, 1999, meeting. The motion
was seconded by Mrs. Crockett and approved unanimously by voice vote.
B227-99 Vacating
various easements and street right-of-way for Highridge Drive.
The bill was given second
reading by the Clerk.
Mayor Hindman noted that
a request had also been received to table this bill.
Mrs. Crockett made the motion
that B227-99 be tabled to the August 16, 1999, meeting. The motion
was seconded by Mr. Campbell and approved unanimously by voice vote.
B228-99 Appropriating
funds for Brown Station Road water main project.
The bill was given second
reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained that this
would relocate and allow for improvement to about 8,400 feet of water main
in conjunction with road work that is taking place on Brown Station Road. The
estimated cost of the project is $310,000. He noted that it would be
coordinated with the street construction project that has already been bid.
Mrs. Crockett asked when
the project would begin. Mr. Malon replied the specifications for the
work had been provided to the Public Works Department and they included them
in their bid for the road construction. He said the road contractor
will be doing the actual water main work at the same time as the road project.
Mr. Patterson said this project
would begin after Oakland Gravel Road is reopened, which would be sometime
this fall. He reported because of the size of the project, it would
probably continue through the winter. Mr. Patterson noted that the
contractor is required to maintain normal traffic movement during most of
the project. He said there would be times when Brown Station Road would
be closed, but Oakland Gravel will be open.
Mr. John asked if he understood
correctly that this would be a $1.9 million road project plus the $300,000
water line project. He understood the $300,000 was not part of the
$1.9 million. Mr. Beck said that was correct.
B228-99 was given third reading
with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL,
JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON. VOTING NO: NO ONE. Bill declared
enacted, reading as follows:
B230-99 Authorizing
the acquisition of water line easements along Clark Lane.
The bill was given second
reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained that this
will provide easements for a 12 inch water main to be extended eastward on
the north side of Clark Lane and St. Charles, from Ballenger Lane to Golf
Boulevard. He said it will provide quite a bit more water pressure
in this district (he was referring to the City's recent merger with Water
District No. 2).
B230-99 was given third reading
with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL,
JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON. VOTING NO: NO ONE. Bill declared
enacted, reading as follows:
B232-99 Accepting
a donation from Columbia Cosmopolitan Club to be used for the Cosmo
Skate
park;
appropriating funds.
The bill was given second
reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained that this
would appropriate the cash donation that was given to the City earlier this
evening.
B232-99 was given third reading
with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL,
JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON. VOTING NO: NO ONE. Bill declared
enacted, reading as follows:
B234-99 Renewing
the temporary revocable utility permit to Digital Teleport, Inc.
The bill was given second
reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained that this
would renew DTI's permit for another year.
Mr. Janku asked what services
this group provides in the community. He said if DTI is providing telecommunication
services, he felt they should be paying a gross receipts tax. Mr. Boeckmann
responded the City's tax is on local telephone service and he did not think
they were providing that. Mr. Beck did not believe there is any local
service involved.
Mr. Campbell pointed out
that these are fiber optics that the Internet goes over. He was not
sure if the City taxes Internet providers. Mr. Boeckmann did not believe
they are taxed.
B234-99 was given third reading
with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL,
JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON. VOTING NO: NO ONE. Bill declared
enacted, reading as follows:
B236-99 Appropriating
funds for the Disabilities Commission.
The bill was given second
reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained that the
local Disabilities Commission received a first place award of $3,500 a few
months back from the national organization. This ordinance would appropriate
the money so it can be used by the Commission, after they submit a plan as
to how they plan to use the money.
Kathleen Weinschenk, 1504
Sylvan Lane, a member of the Disabilities Commission, explained that the
Commission would like to create a safety campaign and try to get reflectors
to people who use wheelchairs and bicycles. They would also like pedestrians
to have them so they can be seen at night. Ms. Weinschenk indicated
the Commission would like to use the funding as seed money, and then try
to encourage other groups to get involved in a larger safety campaign. A
formal request will be forwarded by the Commission.
Mayor Hindman said the City
is proud to have been the recipient of this award, and it is an example of
the City's attempt to try to be accommodating to all citizens.
B236-99 was given third reading
with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL,
JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON. 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.
B222-99 Approving
the final plat of Keene Street C-P Subdivision; authorizing a performance
contract.
B224-99 Approving
the final plat of The Village of Cherry Hill, Plat 2; authorizing a performance
contract.
B229-99 Accepting
easements for utility purposes.
B231-99 Accepting
a grant of easement from Grotmo, L.L.C., for electric purposes.
B233-99 Appropriating
funds for the Columbia Values Diversity Celebration.
B235-99 Accepting
various easements and quit claim deeds for sewer, drainage, road and utility
purposes.
R137-99 Setting
a public hearing: Cosmo Park storm drainage improvements.
R138-99 Setting
a public hearing: construction of Smith Drive from Windermere Drive west
approximately
1,600 feet.
R139-99 Setting
a public hearing: water main project along Grant Lane.
R140-99 Setting
a public hearing: water main project along Lyman Drive.
R141-99 Setting
a public hearing: water main project along Starke Avenue.
The bills were given third reading and the resolutions were read with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON. VOTING NO: NO ONE. Bills declared enacted and resolutions declared adopted, reading as follows:
NEW BUSINESS
R143-99 Terminating
an adopt a spot agreement with Newport Financial Group, Inc.
The resolution was read by
the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained that this
group had indicated that they were not able to fulfill the responsibility
of maintaining the southeast and southwest corners of Big Bear Boulevard. He
said the Volunteer Services Office is working toward recruiting someone else
to adopt those spots.
Mayor Hindman thanked the
Newport Financial Group for taking on the project and for the work they had
done in those spots.
Mayor Hindman questioned
whether or not the Council needed to act on each adopt-a-spot. He wondered
if the staff could be authorized to handle them, and then the Council would
be forwarded a report so it could be made public. He did not think
it was necessary to have a roll call vote each time the Council adopts one
or has one withdrawn. Mayor Hindman suggested that these bills be placed
on the Consent Agenda from this point on.
Mr. Janku said if the Council
is going to give the City Manager the authority to accept the adopt-a-spot
agreements, they should be acted upon more quickly.
It was decided that these
agreements would be put on the Consent Agenda.
The vote on R143-99 was recorded
as follows: VOTING YES: JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL, JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN,
CRAYTON. 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:
B237-99 Accepting
a grant of easement for utility purposes from Show-Me Central/Habitat
for
Humanity.
B238-99 Accepting
grants of easement for water utility purposes from The Arcadia Group, LLC.
B239-99 Approving
engineer's report for Chapel Hill Road water main project.
B240-99 Authorizing
water main project along Grant Lane.
B241-99 Authorizing
water main project along Lyman Drive.
B242-99 Calling
for bids for the installation of a 12" water main along Starke Avenue.
B243-99 Approving
the Southampton Center C-P Development Plan.
B244-99 Approving
a revision to the University Chrysler C-P Development Plan.
B245-99 Approving
a revision to the Kardon C-P Development Plan; granting a variance to the
Subdivision
Regulations.
B246-99 Rezoning
property located on the southeast corner of Berrywood Drive and Portland
Street
from R-3 to O-1.
B247-99 Rezoning
property located at 802, 804, 806, 810, and 812 Conley Road from R-2 to C-P.
B248-99 Amending
Chapter 29 of the City Code relating to commercial parking lots and structures.
B249-99 Amending
Chapter 29 of the City Code as it relates to parking and landscape screening
requirements
in Districts O-P and C-P.
B250-99 Approving
the final plat of Sedonna Villas, Plat 1; authorizing a performance contract.
B251-99 Approving
the final plat of Village Square, Plat 1; authorizing a performance contract.
B252-99 Approving
a replat of Lot 12122 of The Highlands Plat 12-A; authorizing a performance
contract.
B253-99 Approving
a replat of Lot 1232 of The Highlands Plat 12-A; authorizing a performance
contract.
B254-99 Approving
a replat of Lot 1233 of The Highlands Plat 12-A; authorizing a performance
contract.
B255-99 Confirming
the contract for renovations to the Armory building and transferring funds.
B256-99 Confirming
the contract for construction of the Hinkson Creek Trail Phase I.
B257-99 Authorizing
construction of storm drainage improvements in the Columbia Cosmopolitan
Recreation
Area utilizing City forces.
REPORTS AND PETITIONS
(A) Intra Departmental
Transfer of Funds Request.
Report accepted.
(B) Request by
Roy Finley to consider amendments to the R-1 Section of the Zoning
Ordinance.
Mayor Hindman understood
this to be a request to reduce the front yard setback to 15 feet. He
said Mr. Finley had given reasons for the request, and assumed it should
be referred to the Planning and Zoning Commission for their review.
Mr. John said he would like
to see a general review of the setbacks, and possibly yard widths and lot
sizes, for flexibility.
Mr. Janku commented that
it would take longer if the Commission considered all of those things.
Mr. Beck thought the street
width should be considered as well. He said there is a problem in southeast
Columbia where cars are parking all over the yards. Mr. Beck commented
that he receives many calls regarding parking when people have a lot of company
at their homes for large parties. He indicated that he gets numerous
requests for waivers. Mr. Beck said perhaps the Council should consider
giving the Police Department authorization to issue waivers for specific
events (i.e., weddings, reunions, etc.) where a large number of people will
be gathered in residential areas.
Mr. Campbell suggested the
staff and Commission may want to review these issues separately in order
to assure that any current development is not delayed. He said there
are some very major issues that need to be addressed, but to expedite things,
they may need to be packaged.
Based on the comments made
about PUD's, Mr. Janku believed that issue should be addressed as well.
Mr. Campbell made the motion
that the Council leave it to the Commission and staff as to whether or not
they come back with a package or individual units. The motion was seconded
by Mr. Janku and approved unanimously by voice vote.
(C) Street Closure
Request.
Mr. Janku made the motion
that the request be approved as written. The motion was seconded by
Mrs. Crockett and approved unanimously by voice vote.
(D) Land Use
in the Flat Branch Area (Letter from Chamber of Commerce).
Mayor Hindman explained that
the Council received a report from the Trailhead Committee with a recommendation
that the area that is west of the Islamic Center, east of Hardee's and the
Walton Building, be made into a park. He indicated the proposal would
eliminate all parking in that area. The Council also received a letter
from the Chamber of Commerce indicating that they would like to work with
the Trailhead Park Committee to conduct a comprehensive study of the parking
needs in the area. Mayor Hindman suggested encouraging the two groups
to meet and work together.
Mr. Beck noted that the City
has substantial ownership in the Walton Building. He questioned whether
the City should do some comprehensive planning for the needs of that particular
building. He noted it has already been found that there is inadequate
space for the three groups working out of the building now. Mr. Beck
asked if the City should work with the Chamber in studying those building
needs. He noted the Walton Building is adjacent to the tract the City
owns, which is the area being proposed for a park. The Chamber is suggesting
that parking needs for the area should be studied before tearing out the
parking lot. In addition, Mr. Beck believed the Chamber planned to
review the building needs to determine whether it should go up or outward,
or whether the structure should be expanded at all. He reported if
the plan is followed that was originally conceived when the Walton Building
was built, a portion of the tract, east of the Creek, would be possibly left
for parking. Mr. Beck commented the City jointly owns the building
with the Chamber, and its future needs to be determined before final action
is taken.
Mr. Campbell commended the
Trailhead Committee for their hard work in this area. He noted they
have come up with some innovative solutions and he would not like to see
their effort dropped. However, their work needs to be kept in perspective
of the total needs of the area. Mr. Campbell suggested that perhaps
the Council should ask for a staff report on the Walton Building needs, which
would include the need for parking and green space in the area. He
felt there may be parking potential in the area that nobody has looked at
yet.
Mr. Janku did not know how
the City would keep parking available on a regular basis for peak times. He
noted the City's policy of collecting revenue for parking. Mr. Janku
felt the Chamber was asking to be at the table for the discussions, and he
did not have a problem with that.
Mayor Hindman believed the
City has an interest in protecting the building as well as the land to allow
for the highest and best use possible. He thought it would be fair
to have the two groups sit down and work together on this issue. Mayor
Hindman also felt the Islamic Center should have some input.
Mr. John thought a plan is
needed that would allow for the most flexibility and options. He believed
a flat, hard surface area could be used as parking during peak times, and
then could also be used on weekends for festivals. Mr. John commented
that just because this is not a grassy area does not make it a terrible thing. He
said it would be part of a park, and a lot of parks have those kinds of facilities
in them. Mr. John thought it was a good idea to extend the trail,
widen it, allow for some green space along it, but he did not think it all
needed to be green with no parking.
Mr. Beck pointed out that
parking is available in this area, and more landscaping will be necessary
even if only four of the spaces are retained. He explained those spaces
could be reserved as part of the Walton Building area and not rented out. Mr.
Beck urged the Council not to rush into any decision, but allow for a comprehensive
review of the area. Mr. Janku agreed.
Mr. Campbell suggested that
the Council should discuss this issue at a work session, and that they receive
input from the Chamber as well. He reported the Council should know
what the future needs are going to be, and they should also have in front
of them the material from the Trailhead Committee.
Mr. Campbell made the motion
that the Council receive a report, with input from both the staff and the
Chamber, on the current and future needs of the facility, and that both groups
work together toward a deadline of early fall. After the report is
generated, a Council work session will be held.
Mayor Hindman asked that
the report include the park land use perspective. Mr. Coffman
asked if it is anticipated that the Trailhead Park Committee would make a
presentation in the near future so the public will be informed of their recommendation. Mayor
Hindman replied that both groups plan a presentation to the Council.
Mr. Beck asked if staff should
include preliminary estimated costs of the alternatives. Mr. Campbell
said where it would be economically feasible.
The motion made by Mr. Campbell,
followed by suggestions, was seconded by Mayor Hindman and approved unanimously
by voice vote.
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
Upon receiving the majority
vote of the Council, with the exception of the Library Board, a Mayor's appointment,
the following individuals were appointed to the following boards and commissions:
BICYCLE/PEDESTRIAN COMMISSION
Forbes, Vernon J., 1007 Grand Ave., Ward 1 -
term to expire 7/31/00
BUILDING CONSTRUCTION CODES COMMISSION
Connell, Brian D., 801 Edgewood, Ward 4 - term
to expire 8/1/02
Kyger, J. W., 611 Bluff Dale, Ward 6 - term
to expire 8/1/02
Weber, David C., 2604 Cardinal, Ward 6 - term
to expire 8/1/02
LIBRARY BOARD
Glaze, Marie A., 2209-A Creasy Springs Road,
Ward 2 - term to expire 6/30/00
COMMENTS OF THE COUNCIL, STAFF, AND PUBLIC
Mr. Coffman made a motion
that staff be directed to prepare a report, along with a recommendation on
the appropriate sharing formula, regarding the Boone Hospital parking lot
issue involving a pocket park and a sidewalk. The motion was seconded
by Mr. Janku and approved unanimously by voice vote.
Regarding the Sapp land on
I-70 Drive S.E., Mr. John noted that the request involves a major change
in the original proposal that was presented to the Planning and Zoning Commission. He
said it seems as though applicants are using the Planning and Zoning Commission
as a testing board to see where the problems are before bringing the request
to the Council. Mr. John pointed out that when it gets to the Council,
sometimes the application has been changed to the point that it is totally
different and there is no recommendation from the Commission. He felt
that when an application has been amended to the point that it completely
changes the complexion of the request, it should have to go back to the Planning
and Zoning Commission. Mr. John felt that not to do so is unfair to
the neighborhoods and other people involved. He also felt it was unfair
to the Council to have to vote on something without a recommendation from
the Commission.
Mr. John asked for an updated
report related to his proposal for a four-way stop at the corner of Forum
and Southampton based on new data from this summer. Mr. Patterson thought
the numbers had been reviewed on the basis of the opening of the swim club. It
was reported to him that the traffic patterns still did not warrant a four-way
stop. He noted the City is restricting the parking in the area to try
to address the problem. Mr. Patterson indicated he would look at the
data again.
Mr. Campbell reported that
on Edgewood there is a rental house at the end of the cul-de-sac. He
explained that due to the amount of cars that are parking in this area, it
is impossible to use the cul-de-sac as a turnaround. He assumed the
cul-de-sac would have to be designated as a no-parking zone because the refuse
trucks and emergency vehicles will not be able to turn around. Mr.
Campbell asked that the staff report back on how best to address the situation.
Mr. Campbell made the motion
that the staff be directed to prepare a report, as well as the proper legislation
required, for the development of a coordinated community planning process
for social services based on the following goals: 1) allocation of community
resources to specific social service issue areas based on identified needs
and measurable outcomes (this process should utilize the information in the
1998 Boone County Health and Human Services needs assessment, and previous
assessments in establishing community benchmarks and funding priorities); 2)
focus on social services activities that reduce and/or eliminate the need
for future intervention services; 3) focus on the development of an
integrated service delivery system that reduces and/or eliminates barriers
for those in need who desire to attain self-sufficiency; 4) coordination
of local and state funding for social services around specific issue areas
such as child care and employment. The motion was seconded by Mr. Janku
and approved unanimously by voice vote.
Mrs. Crockett said about
a year ago the Council received a report on the traffic situation at the
corner of Wyatt Lane and Thompson Road. The report indicated that a
four-way stop was not warranted at that time. Ms. Crockett asked that
this intersection be considered again for a four-way stop.
Mrs. Crockett noted that
the power lines are being moved on Route B. Mr. Malon reported that
many of the power lines are being moved to the back portion of the properties. Mrs.
Crockett remarked that a lot of the visual clutter has been eliminated and
it looks great.
Ms. Crayton commented that
she would like help from the appropriate department heads in getting her
ward cleaned up. She said most of her neighbors are elderly or low
income and feel intimidated by calling the City for help with problem areas. Ms.
Crayton specified she needed help with vacant lots, boarded up houses, and
weeds.
Mayor Hindman suggested getting
representatives from City departments to meet with residents to discuss procedures
for reporting problem areas.
There was a discussion about
due process procedure regarding abandoned and boarded up houses.
Mr. Janku noted that some
cities have put together neighborhood improvement teams. He stated
perhaps Ms. Crayton could identify certain streets, and a team could survey
the area to ensure that systematic attention is paid to those specific locations.
Ms. Crayton said she would
put together a list of target areas. She indicated she did not want
to take inspectors from their regular routes.
Mr. Campbell said several
months ago he had asked for a report on options for handling boarded up houses. Mr.
Patterson explained that staff has been researching on how other communities
are handling this issue. He indicated his department has had several
meetings with Mr. Boeckmann as well. Mr. Patterson reported it had
been found that there is not much the staff is not doing that other cities
are. He outlined one area of change would be to shorten the time the
City allows these houses to be boarded up. Mr. Patterson acknowledged
there are a lot of things that have to be done as far as clean-up, but the
City still had to recognize trespass, liability, property and ownership rights.
Mayor Hindman asked if the
City could enact an ordinance requiring that all buildings designed to be
inhabited must be in habitable conditions at all times. Mr. Boeckmann
replied the City has many ordinances that requires people to maintain their
property to a certain standard. He commented this is not a question
of an ordinance, but a question of enforcement and money. Mr. Boeckmann
noted there are a limited number of City employees who conduct inspections,
and there are a limited number of employees who can handle the enforcement
activities. He summarized that there are a number of choices on ways
to handle offenders -- an individual can be prosecuted in Municipal Court,
which is not always effective; or by following the proper procedures, the
building can be torn down if it is in bad enough condition. However,
he noted there are houses that really should not be torn down because of
affordable housing issues. In addition, Mr. Boeckmann reported if the
City went in and repaired the home and tried to tax bill the costs for improvements,
we would run the risk of never being able to recover any of the money put
into it. He indicated that if the Council decides to consider this
option, they would have to consider it as part of the budget process -- setting
aside money to rehabilitate homes against the owners wishes.
Mr. Janku wondered whether
the City should perhaps consider reestablishing the rental rehabilitation
program. He related that the City promotes homeownership, and Columbia
has a strong homeownership program.
Ms. Crayton made the motion
that a multi-agency department task force be formed, on a trial basis, to
work with her for the purpose of locating deteriorated structures. The
motion was seconded by Mayor Hindman and approved unanimously by voice vote.
Mr. Janku reported that he
received a call regarding a weed problem that has not been addressed. He
recalled talking to this person last year about the same situation. Mr.
Janku asked if there was a way to incorporate in the ordinances some sort
of fine that increases the penalty for repeat offenders.
Kathy Mills, 804 Conley Road,
spoke in support of passage of B247-99, the rezoning on Conley Road to be
voted on at the next meeting.
Vernon Forbes, 1007 Grand
Avenue, thanked the Council for appointing him to the Bicycle/Pedestrian
Commission. Mr. Forbes noted that he is a resident of Ward 1, and is
in agreement with Ms. Crayton's idea about an exploratory team to get rid
of nuisance problems in the ward. Mr. Forbes related that some owners
in his neighborhood let their property decay in order to receive tax breaks.
The meeting adjourned at
10:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Penny
St. Romaine
City
Clerk
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