INTRODUCTORY
The City Council of the City of Columbia, Missouri met for
a regular meeting at 7:00 p.m., on Monday, November 6, 2000, in the Council Chamber
of the City of Columbia, Missouri. The roll was taken with the following results:
Council Members JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, and CAMPBELL were present.
Member CROCKETT was absent. The City Manager, City Counselor, City Clerk, and
various Department Heads were also present.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes of the regular meeting of October 16, 2000, as
well as the minutes of the special meeting of October 26, 2000, were approved
unanimously by voice vote on a motion made by Mr. Campbell and a second by Mr.
John.
APPROVAL AND ADJUSTMENT OF AGENDA INCLUDING CONSENT AGENDA
Mr. Beck noted that B360-00 would need to be removed from
Introductions.
The agenda, as amended, including the Consent Agenda, was
approved unanimously by voice vote on a motion made by Mr. John and a second
by Mr. Janku.
SPECIAL ITEMS
A) Distinguished Budget Presentation
Award.
Mayor Hindman explained that this program is designed to encourage
governments to prepare budget documents of the highest quality to meet the needs
of decision-makers and citizens. In order to receive this award, the City's budget
must meet strict criteria in the four areas of policy document, financial plan,
operations guide and communication devise. Approximately 925 governments are
expected to submit budgets to the program. He noted that this is the fourth consecutive
year the City of Columbia has received this award. Mayor Hindman presented the
award to Mr. Beck, who in turn gave it to Lori Fleming, the Finance Director.
Mr. Beck explained the lengthy budget process and thanked everyone involved in
its completion.
B) Missouri Community Betterment Awards.
Mayor Hindman explained that this award is sponsored by the
Missouri Department of Economic Development. He said it is the oldest continuous
state sponsored community improvement program and it was designed to encourage
communities to strengthen development efforts as well as self-help within the
neighborhoods. He said more than 80 communities throughout the state entered
the competition this year. Mayor Hindman reported that in the neighborhood category,
the North Central Neighborhood Association was awarded first place and the Ridgeway
Neighborhood Association took fourth place. He recognized representatives from
both associations. It was stated that the North Central Neighborhood began entering
the competition in 1993 and they have received an award every year.
SCHEDULED PUBLIC COMMENTS
Evanell Craven - Street Conditions in Ward 1.
Evanell Craven, 212 Hirth, talked about the lack of sidewalks
in the first ward, and the danger to the pedestrian traffic due to cars and buses
speeding through the neighborhoods. She noted the improvements at the Again and
Worley Street parks have helped the neighborhood immensely. Ms. Craven listed
some suggestions for further improvement in this area to include curbs and gutters
on every street, construction of sidewalks, speed bumps or grooves, enforcement
of speeding laws, and additional traffic signage.
Mr. Janku suggested that Ms. Craven visit with the Public
Works staff as they could explained the petition process for street improvements.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
B342-00 Authorizing construction of
a 12-inch water main serving Stonecrest, Plat 1; authorizing payment of
differential
costs.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained a City policy wherein the City pays the
differential cost for larger water lines to allow for increased fire protection
and better water pressure for a regional area. In this case, the project will
consist of 2,250 feet of water line and the City's estimated cost for the project
will be $25,000.
Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
There being no comments, Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
B342-00 was given third reading with the vote recorded as
follows: VOTING YES: JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CAMPBELL. VOTING
NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: CROCKETT. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
B347-00 Approving the C-P Development
Plan of Burger King Corporation.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck pointed out that the Council was provided minutes
from the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting as well as additional information
contained within the staff report. He said the Commission voted 6-0 to deny the
request.
Mr. Dudark explained the Commission's main concern involved
the need to limit driveway access on West Broadway to right-in/ right-out movements
to enhance traffic safety at that intersection. He said access into the property
is only about 100 feet from the intersection of Broadway and Stadium, so left
turn movements conflict with thru traffic. Another concern was that the plan
includes free standing signs that exceed C-3 sign standards. Mr. Dudark explained
the Commission was also troubled about the lack of a landscape screening along
the north property line which abuts the residential apartments, and the lack
of detail regarding the proposed on-site lighting for the project.
Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
There being no comments, Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
B347-00 was given third reading with the vote recorded as
follows: VOTING YES: NO ONE. VOTING NO: JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU,
CAMPBELL. ABSENT: CROCKETT. Bill defeated.
A) Street improvements
to Heather Lane.
Item A was read by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck noted that this issue had been tabled from the last
meeting to give the Public Works staff an opportunity to meet with the adjacent
property owners to see if agreements could be reached regarding right-of-way
and the driveway issue.
Mr. Patterson explained that the attorney representing Gate
House Apartments had asked for a continuance at the last meeting in order to
work with the Church on some issues. He remarked that staff had been advised
last week that an agreement had been reached, or at least an understanding, that
appeared to be agreeable to both parties. He understood there was some concern
at this time because the attorney representing the apartment complex is now in
the hospital and has not been able to communicate the agreement.
Mr. Patterson indicated the proposal includes constructing
the street in the right-of-way, and an eight foot landscaped area with a privacy
fence would be created between the apartments and the street. He noted the existing
driveway on Broadway to the apartment complex would be eliminated in exchange
for two driveways off of Heather Lane. As part of staff's discussions with the
attorney, Mr. Patterson reported that Mr. Rogers had been assured that the cost
of the project would include landscaping as well as the construction of the new
driveway access - there would be no cost to the apartment complex for that. Mr.
Patterson remarked that the attorney had also been told that when the Council
directs staff to proceed with the project, the next step would be the negotiation
of right-of-way. At that point, staff would be able to tie down details of what
the property owners want in return for right-of-way, such as landscaping and
other considerations. Mr. Patterson believed staff is prepared to move forward
with the project and he thought they could accommodate any of the remaining concerns.
Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
Roland Walker, an attorney with offices at 301 Locust, agreed
with the statements made by Mr. Patterson in that the City should move ahead
with the preliminary work. He thought anything beyond that could be worked out.
Ellen Webber, 2401 W. Broadway, spoke on behalf of the owners
of the Gate House Apartments. She asked that they be given the opportunity to
review the final report on the negotiations between Mr. Walker and Mr. Rogers
before the Council directs proceeding with the project. She asked that the issue
be tabled for 30 days.
Greg Ahrens, 1504 Sylvan, noted that the proposal includes
five foot sidewalks on both sides of the street. He supported this design proposal
as it would greatly enhance pedestrian flow.
Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
Mr. Janku asked if the Council directed staff to proceed with
plans and specifications, whether he understood correctly that during this process
there would still be an opportunity for the apartment owners to provide input
on the details. Mr. Patterson said that was correct as the City will have to
negotiate for the removal of the access on Broadway, and then the subsequent
alignment and arrangement of the access on Heather Lane. Mr. Janku asked if there
was a possibility for landscaping on the west side. Mr. Patterson thought there
had been some discussion with the Church relating to the plans for this property.
He was under the impression they had signed off on landscaping on that side.
If the Council were to take action tonight, Mr. Campbell understood
it would not be binding to either of the landowners. Mr. Patterson said that
was right. He said the Council would simply be giving the staff the authority
to proceed with the development of the project. As final plans are prepared,
right-of-way needs are assessed, and the negotiations with the property owners
continue, Mr. Patterson reported that staff would be bringing back at least two
ordinances relating to right-of-way acquisition and advertising for bids on the
project. He commented there will be plenty of opportunity for public discussion.
Mr. Campbell asked if the Council were to table this issue for 30 days, whether
it would affect planning for the next season. Mr. Patterson said it would depend
on whether or not they have problems with the driveway. He said the design will
not be a real problem. Although, Mr. Patterson thought the Church was anxious
to have some certainty so they can proceed with their development plans.
Mayor Hindman remarked that he did not believe the issue should
be tabled.
Mr. Campbell made the motion that the staff be directed to
proceed. The motion was seconded by Ms. Crayton and approved unanimously by voice
vote.
B) Sidewalk
improvements in downtown area.
Item B was read by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained that last year the Public Works staff provided
a detailed analysis of the sidewalk conditions in the downtown area. The estimated
cost for the proposed project is $80,000 and would be paid out of CDBG funds.
Mr. Beck explained sidewalks would be reconstructed on Seventh and Walnut Streets,
and on the east side of Eighth Street between Walnut and Cherry Streets. He noted
the project will also eliminate steps in two locations, and remove and replace
deteriorated sidewalks along the police buildings.
Mayor Hindman asked if the plan allows for trees to be planted
next to the Police Building. Mr. Patterson responded the City has a tree grate
policy and staff will follow those standards. Mayor Hindman thought tree grates
should be in front of City buildings. Mr. Patterson said there are tree grates
on the opposite side of the street by the attorney's offices.
Mr. Campbell noted that the report submitted by the Disability
Commission, which caused this project to be initiated, also made recommendations
relating to other locations in the downtown area. He asked where staff was in
that planning process. Mr. Patterson explained that staff is attempting to program
these improvements in the priority order that had been outlined in the Commission's
report. He indicated his department is trying to set-up annual programs on them.
Mr. Coffman asked if the proposal before the Council tonight
would be the only project planned for the downtown area this year. Mr. Patterson
replied that was all staff could get done this year, but they will be starting
on next year's program right after the first of the year.
Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
Greg Ahrens, 1504 Sylvan, a member of the Bicycle/Pedestrian
Commission, spoke on behalf of himself and Kathleen Weinschenk, a member of the
Disabilities Commission. He noted that Ms. Weinschenk had worked with the team
of people that submitted the report that was referenced earlier. He explained
that Ms. Weinschenk has been using a wheelchair in Columbia since 1969 and that
she is very happy this project is moving forward. Mr. Ahrens encouraged the staff
to keep up the good work.
John Clark, 403 N. Ninth, noted this project would be paid
for entirely with block grant money. He stated this proposal is a good use of
those funds, but other projects would also benefit from those funds. He recommended
that the Council look at unused property tax monies, the portion that has not
been levied, and perhaps find a way to complete these sidewalk improvements faster
and not with just block grant money.
Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
Mr. Janku made the motion that the staff be directed to proceed.
The motion was seconded by Mr. Campbell and approved unanimously by voice vote.
C) Storm drainage improvements in the
Crestridge Drive area.
Mr. Patterson explained that this project will replace an
undersized culvert on Crestridge Drive. Currently, the culvert will only handle
about two-thirds of the ten year storm runoff, which means approximately 1/3
of a ten year storm will go around it causing erosion and yard flooding. Mr.
Patterson indicated this situation has been a neighborhood concern for some time
and staff has been discussing proposed solutions with residents for almost a
year now. The replacement culvert will have minimal upstream/downstream gratings
and will simply connect back into the existing channel. Mr. Patterson reported
that staff believes this will solve several of the local neighborhood flooding
problems. He noted that funding for this project will come from the storm water
utility at an estimated cost of $60,700.
Mr. Campbell understood this street was one of the older ones
which was constructed before the City had standards in place. Mr. Patterson confirmed
that was correct.
Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
There being no comments, Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
Mr. Campbell noted that the improvements are badly needed.
Mr. Campbell made the motion that the staff be directed to
proceed. The motion was seconded by Mr. Janku and approved unanimously by voice
vote.
OLD BUSINESS
B344-00 Authorizing the City manager
to execute a contract for the sale of railroad property south of Rogers
Street
owned by the City.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck reported the potential sale of this City property
has been discussed for several years. Since there are four property owners who
have an interest in the property, staff proposed that these individuals come
to an agreement between themselves on how the land is to be divided. Mr. Beck
reported that staff believes it is in the best interest of the City to dispose
of the property. He noted the property was appraised at $114,000.
Linda Rootes, 807 N. Eighth, President of the North Central
Neighborhood Association, thanked the business owners who were present for participating
in this agreement. She indicated the neighborhood is looking forward to seeing
this area redeveloped.
Mayor Hindman noted that this property is totally underutilized
and was pleased to see the interest in redeveloping it.
Mr. Campbell agreed and commented that he is glad the land
would be returned to a productive use.
B343-00 was given third reading with the vote recorded as
follows: VOTING YES: JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CAMPBELL. VOTING
NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: CROCKETT. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
B351-00 Authorizing tourism development
agreements with various organizations; appropriating funds.
The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained this to be the proposed use of $200,000
for the Convention and Visitors Bureau Tourism Development fund for contracts
with 11 local organizations. The goal is to enhance existing festivals and develop
new events to increase both general and overnight visitors.
B351-00 was given third reading with the vote recorded as
follows: VOTING YES: JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CAMPBELL. VOTING
NO: NO. ABSENT: CROCKETT. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
CONSENT AGENDA
The following bills were given second reading and the resolutions
were read by the Clerk.
B343-00 Accepting easements for utility
purposes.
B345-00 Vacating a waterline easement
located within the proposed Katy Lake Estates Subdivision, Plat 3-H.
B346-00 Approving the final plat of
Katy Lake Estates, Plat 3-H, a replat of Lots 344 and 345 of Katy Lake
Estates,
Plat 3; authorizing a performance contract.
B348-00 Authorizing an agreement with
Fairway Meadows Corporation regarding storm drainage improve-
ments
in Sedona Villas; appropriating funds.
B349-00 Confirming the contract of Twin Traffic
Marking Corporation for the repainting of all runway and
taxiway
markings at Columbia Regional Airport.
B350-00 Authorizing an agreement with
the Missouri Department of health for Transitional HIV Case
Management
Services; appropriating funds.
R214-00 Setting a public hearing: construction
of water main along Waterloo Drive, Stevendave Drive and
Murrell
Drive.
R215-00 Renewing an agreement with the
Missouri Department of Health for the Child Care Nurse
Consultant
Program.
R216-00 Authorizing an agreement with the Missouri
Department of Health for surveillance of the West
Nile
Virus.
The bills were given third reading and the resolutions
were read with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN,
CRAYTON, JANKU, CAMPBELL. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: CROCKETT. Bills declared
enacted and resolutions declared adopted, reading as follows:
NEW BUSINESS
R217-00 Authorizing an adopt-a-spot
agreement with The Community United Methodist Church.
The resolution was read by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained that there is a policy in place as to how
much City money is used as a contribution toward matching monies with different
organizations who may want to adopt some type of landscaping in the community.
The higher the use of the street, the higher the contribution is made by the
City. Mr. Beck indicated the Volunteer Services Office has been working on the
continuation of adoptions of these locations throughout the community. The estimated
cost to the City for this particular agreement is $3,161, which is below the
guideline figure of $4,000 for a major corridor.
Leigh Nutter explained that this agreement calls for landscaping
the traffic island on Park deVille, which is close to the temporary Library location.
She reported The Community Methodist Church that is adjacent to the island has
agreed to maintain the spot if the City would excavate the area and plant it.
The vote on R217-00 was recorded as follows: VOTING YES: JOHN,
COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CAMPBELL. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: CROCKETT.
Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:
R218-00 Authorizing an adopt-a-spot
agreement with the Katy Lake Homeowners Association.
The resolution was read by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck noted the City's cost on this project is estimated
at $605. He said the neighborhood has agreed to maintain it for a minimum period
of four years.
Ms. Nutter explained that this is a traffic circle on Grant
Lane. She indicated there is already soil and water hydrants at the location,
and the neighborhood association has developed a proposal which calls for the
City to fund the plants and mulch for the spot.
Mayor Hindman said the landscaped islands and various adopt-a-spot
areas improves the overall appearance of the community.
The vote on R218-00 was recorded as follows: VOTING YES: JOHN,
COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CAMPBELL. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: CROCKETT.
Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:
R219-00 Authorizing an agreement with
Crawford, Murphy & Tilly, Inc. for engineering services in
connection
with the rehabilitation of a portion of Runway 2-20 at Columbia Regional
Airport.
The resolution was read by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained the estimated cost of this rehabilitation
work to be $160,000, with the Federal Aviation Administration paying 90% of the
cost to bring the City into compliance with new FAA directives.
The vote on R219-00 was recorded as follows: VOTING YES: JOHN,
COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CAMPBELL. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: CROCKETT.
Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:
R220-00 Authorizing an agreement with
Show-Me Central Habitat for Humanity for CDBG grant funds.
The resolution was read by the Clerk.
Mr. Dudark explained that these FY 2000 amendment funds are
available immediately. Since it is not possible to use CDBG funds for new construction
of housing, Mr. Dudark explained that Habitat typically buys land and improves
the lots with streets and utilities. This agreement provides that Habitat can
use these dollars within the CDBG eligibility area. Mr. Dudark reminded the Council
that this includes a fairly large area within the north and south portions of
the City. If the Council wishes to further consolidate the area targeted for
the funds, they could amend the agreement to reduce the geographic area that
would be eligible.
Mr. Dudark noted that the Community Development Commission
recommended that the money be a loan, whereas in the past the funds provided
to Habitat have been in the form of grants. He explained that Habitat uses the
proceeds from the sale of a house to build new homes. Mr. Dudark explained if
Habitat contributes toward the public infrastructure, that would not be an asset
that could be sold. He reported that staff has structured this agreement as a
grant, but noted Council's discretion to amend it to be a loan.
Mr. Campbell pointed out that the Council had discussed this
at length during a work session. It is his feeling that the first priority for
use of such funds should be within the central part of the city as there is a
need for additional housing in this area. He suggested that the Council direct
Habitat to focus on an area that might be bounded by I-70, Stadium Boulevard,
and U.S. Highway 63 on the east.
Mr. Campbell made the motion that Section 1A be amended to
read, "CDBG eligible areas bounded by Interstate 70, Stadium Boulevard, and U.S.
63." The motion was seconded by Mr. Coffman.
Mayor Hindman understood that Habitat had been looking at
a different area. Mr. Beck said that was correct, he believed it to be an area
north of U.S. 63 near Brown Station Road. Mr. Campbell said this amendment would
not preclude Habitat from coming back later to discuss that issue. He believed
the Council should give high priority to the inner part of the city.
The motion made by Mr. Campbell, seconded by Mr. Coffman,
was approved unanimously by voice vote.
The vote on R220-00, as amended, was recorded as follows:
VOTING YES: JOHN, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CAMPBELL. VOTING NO: NO ONE.
ABSENT: CROCKETT. Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:
R221-00 Authorizing an agreement with
CH2M Hill to prepare plans and specifications to rehabilitate Deep
Well
#10.
The resolution was read by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck explained that the 1997 bond issue provides funds
for the rehabilitation of three deep wells. One of the emergency back-up wells
has already been rehabilitated and now the staff is preparing to begin work on
the second one. The design proposal will allow for experiments in aquifer storage
and recovery (ASR). Mr. Beck reported that CH2M Hill is an international firm
that has as much, or more, experience with ASR as any firm. He indicated that
staff has worked with the firm to develop a proposed contract for design services,
specifications and bidding of the project in an amount not to exceed $52,900.
Regarding the design components, Mr. Janku noted that the
agreement refers to structural and aesthetic modification of the existing derrick
structure. As other wells are updated, he asked if anything was being done to
make them more aesthetically appealing. Mr. Powell responded that the derricks
are being removed and every attempt is being made to make the sites look a little
nicer as they are restored. He noted some of the well sites are going to be abandoned
and plugged. In addition, Mr. Powell stated there are plans to remove the well
house so this property could be sold at some point in time.
Mr. Coffman noted that ASR technology has been used in several
cities before. Mr. Beck did not think there were any underground ASR's in the
state. Mr. Powell remarked there are none in Missouri. He explained this agreement
just calls for the gathering of some very basic and preliminary information while
the well is being rehabilitated so that after discussions with DNR, staff will
be able to determine if this is something we want to pursue.
Mr. John understood that this is done in other parts of the
country, just not in Missouri. Mr. Powell replied the engineer they want to hire
in this case is working on an ASR near Green Bay, Wisconsin. He noted it has
been quite successful.
As part of the testing process, Mr. Campbell assumed they
would also be testing to find how well the aquifer holds water. He thought there
would be considerable variation from one aquifer to another. Mr. Powell said
that is some of the data they will gather as this well is tested and rehabilitated.
The vote on R221-00 was recorded as follows: VOTING YES: JOHN,
COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CAMPBELL. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: CROCKETT.
Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:
R222-00 Authorizing an agreement with
Welcome Center Services, Inc. for operation of a hotel/motel
advertising
display at Columbia Regional Airport.
The resolution was read by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck noted that this would be a one-year agreement for
operation of a hotel/motel advertising display with a direct telephone call center
at Columbia Regional Airport. He said the agreement allows for two, one-year
renewals. It has been estimated the display could bring in as much as $200 monthly.
Mr. Beck reported there would be no financial risk to the City.
The vote on R222-00 was recorded as follows: VOTING YES: JOHN,
COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CAMPBELL. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: CROCKETT.
Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:
R223-00 Authorizing an amendment to
the Minimum Funding Agreement with RightCHOICE Managed Care,
Inc.
d/b/a Alliance Blue Cross Blue Shield and Healthy Alliance Life Insurance
Company.
The resolution was read by the Clerk.
Mr. Beck noted that six proposals were received pertaining
to the stop-loss insurance on the City's self-funded medical, dental, and pharmacy
benefit plans. The recommendation is to enter into an agreement with Alliance
Blue Cross Blue Shield who had the most competitive rate quote for this insurance.
Mr. Beck pointed out that a consultant works with staff in reviewing the City's
medical program each year. He noted that rates had not increased much over the
last two years.
The vote on R223-00 was recorded as follows: VOTING YES: JOHN,
COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CAMPBELL. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: CROCKETT.
Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:
The following bills were introduced by the Mayor, unless otherwise indicated, and all were given first reading:
B353-00 Calling for bids for construction
of the Community Recreation Center.
B354-00 Establishing permanent R-1 zoning
on property located on the north side of State Route K, west of
Old
Village Road.
B355-00 Rezoning property located on
the north side of Vawter School Road, approximately 1,000 feet east
of
Scott's Boulevard from C-P to R-1.
B356-00 Approving the final plat of
Smithton Park; granting variances to the Subdivision Regulations;
authorizing
a performance contract.
B357-00 Approving the final plat of
R.T.W. Addition; authorizing a performance contract.
B358-00 Approving the final plat of
West Vandiver Industrial Park, Plat 1; authorizing a performance contract.
B359-00 Approving the final plat of
Deer Ridge Subdivision, Plat 1; authorizing a performance contract.
B361-00 Approving the Creative Photo
Studio C-P Development Plan.
B362-00 Approving engineer's final report;
authorizing payment of differential costs for construction of water
main
serving Broadway Oaks, Plat 1.
B363-00 Authorizing construction of
water main along Waterloo Drive, Stevendave Drive and Murrell Drive.
B364-00 Accepting easements for water
and electric purposes.
B365-00 Authorizing a right of use agreement
with GTE Midwest Incorporated d/b/a Verizon Midwest to
allow
installation of utility lines across Cosmo Park.
B366-00 Levying special assessments
against properties for abatement of weed nuisances.
B367-00 Amending Chapter 11 of the City
Code to add a provision relating to inspection fees for temporary
food
events.
B368-00 Accepting a donation from Jim
and Billie Silvey for acquisition of a canine for the Police Department;
appropriating
funds.
B369-00 Authorizing an amendment to
the agreement with Bucher, Willis & Ratliff for engineering services
related
to the Bear Creek Trail Phase IV Project.
B370-00 Authorizing a real estate contract
to purchase property near Columbia Regional Airport; advancing
funds
from the Designated Loan Fund; appropriating funds.
B371-00 Accepting easements for drainage,
sewer, street, utility and construction purposes.
B372-00 Authorizing acquisition of land
located on Tupelo Place for flood protection purposes.
B373-00 Confirming the contract of J.C.
Industries, Inc. for the construction of improvements at the Cow
Branch
Pump Station, Force Main and Outfall and Trunk Sewers CB-4 and CB-5.
B374-00 Calling for bids for the construction
of Fire Station No. 8 at the northwest corner of Bearfield Road
and
Nifong Boulevard.
B375-00 Appropriating funds for the
FY 2000 public transportation operating budget.
B376-00 Authorizing acquisition of easements
necessary for the construction of Smith Drive from Windermere
Drive
to Silver Thorne Drive.
REPORTS AND PETITIONS
(A) Neighborhood Response Team
Mr. Beck explained that several months ago a staff committee
had been appointed to target aesthetic violations in response to Council discussions
of a specific neighborhood area. The initial inspections were targeted in an
area north of Sexton Road and east of Garth Avenue. He stated with the assistance
of the Public Works, Health and Police Departments, two hundred and eleven housing
units were inspected and a number of violations had been found. Forty-five were
immediately brought into compliance and of the 165 violations discovered by the
Health Department, 79% were corrected upon receipt of first notice from that
department. Mr. Beck reported the team expects to complete initial inspection
assessments in the entire target area which is bounded by Ash Street, Providence
Road, the Business Loop, and McBaine and Jewell Streets by the end of the year.
He noted that all of the Police Department's violations had been corrected, which
primarily related to abandoned cars. Mr. Beck indicated that after extensive
discussions during the budget meetings, it was agreed that additional resources
would be made available to the overall program.
Mr. Coffman commented that he has received a lot of positive
feedback about the Neighborhood Response Team program. He observed that staff
has done a good job with what they have been able to squeeze into their already
busy schedules.
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
None.
COMMENTS OF COUNCIL, STAFF, AND PUBLIC
Ms. Crayton spoke about the sidewalk issue in the first ward.
She indicated her strong support for the Neighborhood Response Team as she believed
her ward to be far behind the rest of the wards in the City.
Mr. Janku commented that when he first came on the Council,
there had been a fairly extensive list of street improvement projects that were
targeted for CDBG funding. He thought a lot of these projects had been completed;
however, when looking at the budget for the next few years, there are no streets
designated for CDBG improvement. Mr. Janku believed staff needed to do another
inventory of infrastructure and develop a list of priorities. He commented that
if neighborhoods get together and submit petitions for improvement projects,
the City could respond to that. Mr. Janku observed that the Community Development
Commission did not want to allocate any money to street or sidewalk improvements
because specific priorities have not been established by the City.
Mr. Janku noted the Council had received a letter from the
Department of Housing and Urban Development pertaining to possible CDBG funding
for the Youth Builders Program that could be used to support the City's C.A.R.E.
Program.
In reference to improving and increasing traffic flow on the
Business Loop, Mr. Janku wanted to ensure that the pedestrian areas are not neglected.
Mr. Campbell reported that he has received several calls regarding
Grant School and the temporary closing of the Library making it difficult for
parents to pick-up their children. He asked Mr. Patterson what has been done
to alleviate this problem. Mr. Patterson reported that staff has met with the
PTA Safety Committee and he had personally visited the site. He indicated that
recommendations have been prepared relating to painting and signage. After receiving
a copy of the letter today, he remarked that he was surprised to read that it
indicated signs had not been put up. Mr. Patterson confirmed with the Street
Division that the signs had been installed and the parking situation is being
monitored. He noted the problem is, even with the signs and the painting, people
choose to ignore them. Mr. Patterson stated that staff is reviewing the recommendations
contained in the letter and a report will be submitted to the City Manager pertaining
to the feasibility, advisability and the cost of those suggestions.
Barbara Upton, Harambee House, 703 N. Eighth, spoke about
the conditions in her neighborhood.
Henry Lane, 1816 E. Broadway, urged everyone to vote tomorrow.
Mr. Beck and Mayor Hindman also encouraged everyone to vote.
Mr. Beck noted that if anyone had questions relating to the basic issue of the
parks tax, to contact his office.
The meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Penny
St. Romaine
City
Clerk
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