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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005-11-28 Minutes, City Commission MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE CITY COMMISSION BOZEMAN,MONTANA Noyember 28, 2005 ***************************** The Commission of the City of Bozeman met in regular session and work session in the Community Room, Gallatin County Courthouse, 311 West Main Street, on Monday, November 28, 2005, at 7:00 p.m. Present were Mayor Andrew Cetraro, Commissioner Jeff Krauss, Commissioner Marcia Youngman, Commissioner Steve Kirchhoff, Commissioner Lee Hietala, City Manager Chris Kukulski, Assistant City Manager Ron Brey, Director of Public Service Debbie Arkell, Director of Finance Anna Rosenberry, Director of Public Safety-Police Mark Tymrak, Director of Public Safety-Fire Chuck Winn, Planning Director Andy Epple, City Attorney Paul Luwe, and City Clerk Robin Sullivan. Sianina of Notice of Special Meetina Each of the Commissioners, in turn, signed the Notice of Special Meeting. Work Session - Continued review of proposed UDO revisions Assistant Planning Director Chris Saunders continued review of the proposed revisions to the unified development ordinance, beginning with Nos. 38 and 85. He stated that the new code includes the provision that casinos with on-premises consumption of alcohol may not also sell gasoline. The proposal is to eliminate that restriction. Ms. Jenny Haubenreiser, Community Alcohol Coalition, stated that the CAC has not found research to directly link the pairing of a gas station and bar to drunk driving, which is a significant issue in Montana. She noted, however, that the paring of those activities sends the wrong message to the community and its youth. She stressed that Bozeman is a unique community, and she does not find that removing the restriction would enhance Bozeman. Ms. Becky Robideaux, Community Alcohol Coalition, noted that, when driving to this meeting, she was telling her two children about city government and the state legislature as well as the reason for attending this meeting. Her son's response was that drinking and driving are just wrong; and she has to agree that pairing alcohol consumption and retail gasoline sales sends a mixed message. She expressed concern that high alcohol density increases alcohol use and abuse and concluded by noting that increasing those possibilities would not enhance the community. Commissioner Youngman noted that national statistics do not include where one got the alcohol, they simply document the percentage of alcohol related accidents and deaths. She noted that Montana received an "F" from Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD) because of the high percentage of alcohol related deaths in 2001; and minimal changes in laws have only slightly improved that percentage. She stated that the statistics for Bozeman also reflect a serious problem with alcohol use and abuse, and removing this prohibition sends the wrong message by actively pairing the sale of gasoline and the consumption of alcohol. She concluded by noting that only one business has requested permission to construct this type of facility and questioned why the code should be changed for that one business. Commissioner Krauss noted that when the subdivision regulations and zone code were combined into a single document, there were added items that have resulted in some concerns being voiced. He cited this as one of those issues, noting there was no specific paper trail to show how the change occurred. Responding to Commissioner Kirchhoff, Assistant Planning Director Saunders stated that there are eighty proposed amendments for the Commission to yet consider and, once that process has been completed, staff will begin processing the amendments as a package. He estimated that the process will take twelve to eighteen months to complete and the changes become effective. 11-28-05 -2- Commissioner Kirchhoff questioned how allowing someone to drink where gasoline is sold will make the community better. He characterized this as a statement of values and he does not see that it promotes a positive value. He then stated he cannot support passing this revision forward to the new Commission. Mayor Cetraro stressed that the proposed facility is not a bar; rather, it is a convenience store that sells gasoline as well as drinks and snacks. He then noted that under this proposed revision, a source of entertainment would be added; and one is not required to drink when taking advantage of that entertainment. He stressed that this type of facility is not against the law; and noted this is a matter of personal values. He concluded by characterizing this as clean industry and voicing his support for the proposed amendment. City Manager Kukulski observed that Bozeman does not have casinos on every corner and does not have casinos attached to gas stations; and it doesn't take anyone from Montana very long to recognize this difference from other communities. He then asked if this restriction is what helps to set Bozeman apart from the other cities. Mayor Cetraro stated he feels that Bozeman's standards and requirements for architectural design and aesthetics are what sets it apart from others. He noted that Bozeman's casinos and bars are more attractive; and its downtown is vibrant. Commissioner Krauss noted that those driving impaired are subject to the law. He then stressed that there are a limited number of on-premise alcohol licenses available in the community, based on population, so this would not further increase those opportunities. He observed that, when he was growing up in Kentucky, he witnessed bad drinking behaviors in dry counties that forced people into criminal activity. He then stated one of his values is to teach children that they can drink responsibly and socially rather than ~etting drunk. He concluded by stating that, while he personally would like to move this amendment orward, he does not find that doing so would be worth the staff time involved. Commissioner Hietala stated he agrees the number of casinos in Bozeman should be limited; however, he noted that the City violates its own desires by approving facilities with gaming in its entryway corridors. He concluded by voicing his support for the proposed amendment. In response to the Mayor, three of the Commissioners indicated they do not support forwarding either No. 38 or No. 85 for consideration. Assistant Planning Director Saunders stated that No. 60 proposes to remove language which authorizes the City to establish specific standards and conditions for an individual planned unit development. He noted that the Planning Board voted unanimously not to forward this amendment; the Commissioners concurred with that recommendation. The Assistant Planning Director turned his attention to Nos. 61, 62 and 63, noting that they pertain to modifications to approved planned unit developments and allow for a greater percentage of modification to be approved administratively. Commissioner Youngman noted that staff has opposed these amendments and suggested that, if staff is uncomfortable with the increased discretion, the Commission should not forward them through the process. Responding to Commissioner Krauss, the Assistant Planning Director stated that minor adjustments to approved planned unit developments are not uncommon; and many of those are handled administratively. He indicated that if the changes are major or staff is uncomfortable making the determination, the request is submitted to the Commission for consideration. Commissioner Krauss indicated he could support a carefully worded amendment that would increase the percentage of change from 2 to 5 percent, at the discretion of the administrator. Three of the Commissioners indicated support for moving these revisions forward. Assistant Planning Director Saunders concluded this work session with No. 64, which drops the option of a planned unit development based solely on design guidelines. He questioned how the City can be assured the development will be completed under the guidelines as submitted. 11-28-05 - 3- A majority of the Commissioners indicated support for forwarding this amendment through the process. Break - 6:55 to 7:00 p.m. Mayor Cetraro declared a break from 6:55 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., to prepare for the regular meeting. Pledae of Alleaiance and Moment of Silence The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance "and a moment of silence. Public comment Mayor Cetraro stated his recent family incident will not affect his ability to complete his duties as Mayor. He indicated that he cannot comment on the substance of the issue since it is the subject of a pending case. He then thanked the Commissioners who have expressed support and concern for his family and those who have respected his family's privacy. Mr. Michael Delaney distributed copies of a proposal to purchase the Story Mansion, noting that he submitted this proposal to the task force over a month ago. He indicated that he has forwarded this proposal because time is running short under the Katrina fund tax legislation that allows one to make large gifts before the end of the year and write off 100 percent of the gift. He characterized this as a unique and fair offer, cautioning that to not accept it could result in the City hoping and praying someone will come along and purchase it. City Manager Kukulski cautioned that this proposal includes subdivision of the block to allow the construction of two single-family homes plus the Story mansion. He noted that Mr. Delaney proposes to pay $750,000 plus donate property at the Sourdough trail head, in an estimated value of $250,000. He stated that the task force reviewed this application but felt that neither subdivision of the block nor removal of the carriage house meets the criteria in the request for proposals or the City's vision for this site. He then reminded the Commission of the recent letter to Montana State University setting deadlines for perfecting the proposal to acquire this site for the Institute for the Humanities. He expressed his discomfort with considering another proposal while awaiting MSU's responses within the timeline established, noting the City and MSU are currently working toward a July 1 deadline in determining whether the proposal is financially feasible. He concluded by reminding the Commission that action cannot be taken tonight and asking if they wish to have this item placed on the December 5 agenda. Following discussion, the Commissioners indicated they did not wish to place this proposal on the agenda for consideration. City Manager Kukulski indicated that, if MSU finds it cannot successfully proceed with its proposal, he will recommend that some level of minimal development be considered to make this a viable property. Conditional Use Permit for StoneRidae Sauare Planned Unit DeveloDment - amend master Dlan and develoDment auidelines for StoneRidae Planned Unit Development to allow multi-tenant buildinas in the "B-1" zonina district to exceed 10,OOO-sauare-foot maximum around floor area caD, with deviation from Section 18.52.090 to allow 20 Dercent more sianaae as it aPDlies to total sauare feet and pole sian heiaht - Sprinaer Group Architects for StoneRidae Partners. LLC IZ-05183) This was the time and place set for the continued public hearing on the Conditional Use Permit for StoneRidge Square Planned Unit Development, as requested by Springer Group Architects for StoneRidge Partners, LLC, under Application No. Z-05183, to amend the master plan and development guidelines for StoneRidge Planned Unit Development to allow multi-tenant buildings in the "B-1", Neighborhood Business, district to exceed the 1 O,OOO-square-foot maximum ground floor area cap, with a deviation from Section 18.52.090 of the Bozeman Municipal Code to allow 20 percent more signage as it applies to the total square feet and pole sign height. The subject property lies along the west side of North 19th Avenue between West Oak Street and Tschache Lane. 11-28-05 -4- Public hearing Mayor Cetraro reopened the continued public hearing. Included in the Commissioners' packets was a memo from Planning staff requesting that the public hearing be continued to December 5 to give the Design Review Board an opportunity to conduct its review and forward its comments. It was moved by Commissioner Krauss, seconded by Commissioner Youngman, that the public hearing be continued to December 5, per staffs request. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Commissioner Krauss, Commissioner Youngman, Commissioner Kirchhoff, Commissioner Hietala, and Mayor Cetraro; those voting No, none. Ordinance No. 1655 - adoDtina Northeast Urban Renewal District INURDl plan Included in the Commissioners' packets was a copy of Ordinance No. 1655, entitled: ORDINANCE NO. 1655 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF BOZEMAN, MONTANA, ADOPTING AN URBAN RENEWAL PLAN FOR PORTIONS OF THE NORTHEAST BOZEMAN, INCLUDING THE HISTORIC MIXED USE DISTRICT. It was moved by Commissioner Youngman, seconded by Commissioner Kirchhoff, that Ordinance No. 1655, adopting the Northeast Urban Renewal District plan, be finally adopted. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Commissioner Youngman, Commissioner Kirchhoff, Commissioner Hietala, Commissioner Krauss, and Mayor Cetraro; those voting No, none. Reauest from NorthWestern Enerav for permission to address Commission reaardina proposed acauisition of comDanv assets Mr. Pat Corcoran, Vice President for Government and Regulatory Affairs with NorthWestern Energy, distributed copies of a fact sheet on NorthWestern Energy's operations in Montana and Bozeman. He addressed a number of points in response to presentations from Montana Public Power, Inc., (MPPI) and news coverage. He stated that NorthWestern Energy is largely doing all of the things that MPPI has proposed to do. He stressed that NorthWestern Energy is clearly focused on its core utility service after emerging from bankruptcy last year and shedding the unregulated parts that resulted in its downfall. He noted that today, NorthWestern Energy is a financially strong standalone utility that is clearly focused on safe and reliable service. NorthWestern's third quarter release shows it is well ahead of schedule in meeting the targets set during bankruptcy proceedings, and it now has investment grade ratings but must once again prove itself in the financial market. He noted, in fact, that Standard and Poors was prepared to give it investment grades but recanted based on MPPI comments and placed it on credit watch once again. Mr. Corcoran responded to MPPl's commitment to rates equal to or less than current rates. He noted that rates change every month, based largely on the supply costs in the market place. He drew attention to the graphs showing that 51 percent of the electric bill and 66 percent of the natural gas bill are supply related. He then turned his attention to MPPl's proposal to improve reliability, noting the statistics on the information sheet reveal that NorthWestern Energy is better than the industry averages and, in fact, is comparable to the top utility companies in the country. He stated that the company received top customer awards for service reliability in 2004 and 2005. In light of claims of deficiencies in operational system and practices, NorthWestern Energy undertook a third party audit while in bankruptcy in 2004. That audit resulted in 21 separate recommendations and, to date, eleven of those have been implemented and a commitment has been made to implement the remaining ten. Mr. Corcoran turned his attention to the company's commitment to communities, acknowledging that NorthWestern Energy's employees take their jobs seriously and should be commended. He stated that the reorganized corporate structure has given local committees control offunding for local communities instead of earmarking those funds from the general office. 11-28-05 - 5 - Mr. Pat Corcoran turned his attention to the proposed funding of MPPl's transaction, noting that it is backed by CitiBank and is for a 100-percent financing of the costs, leaving no monies to fund capital improvements. He then highlighted the recent capital improvements that have been made within the Bozeman division, including building a new transmission line and rebuilding the Sourdough substation. He noted that NorthWestern Energy's board of directors has rejected MPPl's request two or three times because of its concern about the structure of the transaction and what it would mean to its employees and customers. He then questioned how MPPI could cover its costs of the Public Service Commission disallowed some of its costs, particularly since it would not have the conventional stockholders to fall back on. Mr. Corcoran questioned why the cities would be willing to provide additional funding for a $2 billion transaction without seeing the technical analysis results. He also cautioned that the $500,000 being sought at this time will not begin to cover the costs of due diligence. Mr. Corcoran identified supply as the key issue, noting that NorthWestern no longer owns its own generation facilities. He noted that MPPI has indicated its intent to purchase power from the Bonneville Power Administration. He cautioned, however, that Bonneville must first supply the needed power to its existing customers; and new customers would pay a higher price for any surplus power it may be able to purchase. Mr. Corcoran concluded by noting that this is really a $2 billion experiment that results in more risk and uncertainty for customers, particularly on rates. He then thanked the Commission for this opportunity to make a presentation and indicated a willingness to respond to questions. Authorize Mayor to sian - Amendment No.1 to Interlocal Aareement for the Creation, Establishment and Governance of Montana Public Power Authority to authorize additional expenditures Included in the Commissioners' packets was a memo forwarding Amendment No.1 to the Interlocal Agreement. The City Manager highlighted the terms of the amendment, noting that Mr. Hansen will make the staff presentation. He indicated that under this amendment, authorization is granted to expend $100,000 for due diligence and an additional $100,000 penalty for backing out of an agreement to purchase. Commissioner Krauss stated that the MPPI board recognizes the $500,000 generated through this amendment will not cover the costs of due diligence; however, the remainder of the costs will be covered later in the process. Mr. Alec Hansen, Executive Director of Montana League of Cities and Towns, stressed that this amendment simply authorizes the expenditure of $1 00,000 for due diligence; it is not an appropriation. He noted that the $100,000 will be transferred from the City to Montana Public Power, Inc., (MPPI) only if it reaches an agreement to purchase NorthWestern Energy. He indicated that the reverse break-up fee would be paid only if MPPI willfully breached the contract to purchase; and he does not anticipate that would happen. Mr. Hansen responded to some of the issues raised by Mr. Corcoran. He stressed that this is not a $2 billion experiment; rather, the MPPI is patterned after the 2,000 successful municipal and rural cooperative utilities in the United States. He further noted that bankruptcies are not as common among public power companies as they are among investor-owned utilities. He stated that MPPI has developed a very solid, workable plan over the past four years. He noted that 100-percent debt financing is not uncommon in cities; in fact, it is the standard when large debt is involved. Mr. Hansen noted that, with the offer from Black Hills last week to purchase NorthWestern Energy, MPPI is the only entity that would provide Montana ownership and local control over a vital economic asset in the state. He asked that Bozeman remain an active member in the MPPI and authorize the additional funding for the next step in the process. City Manager Kukulski suggested that the Commission seek input from the Commissioners Elect, in light of the fact that this process will be moving forward after they are seated in January. 11-28-05 -6- Commissioner-Elect Sean Becker stated he finds authorizing the expenditure of $100,000 for due diligence is appropriate. He noted that additional research is essential in this type of business venture and suggested that, through a cooperative agreement with Black Hills, it may be possible for MPPI to acquire the Montana assets only. Commissioner Krauss stated that, as Bozeman's representative on the Montana Public Power, Inc., Board of Directors, he will abstain from voting to avoid any appearance of impropriety. He noted that, while NorthWestern Energy's Board of Directors has rejected MPPl's previous offers, some of its shareholders are becoming more interested in them. He stated that authorizing the expenditure of $100,000 for due diligence, so the underlying assets of the company and how it is investing in capital to make sure the value exists is an important next step. He suggested that chasing returns for equity investors is more risky than managing 100 percent, citing the bankruptcies of Montana Power Company and NorthWestern Energy as examples. He indicated that reliability is not just having the lights come on when the switch is flipped; it also includes fluctuations in ownership and bankruptcies. He concluded by stating that authorizing the expenditure of $100,000 for due diligence does not commit to spending those monies immediately. Responding to Commissioner Hietala, Commissioner Krauss stated that the MPPI offer is $32.50 per share, which is a cash offer. The offer from Black Hills is higher per share but is stock for stock rather than cash. He then indicated he is not interested in entering into a bidding war with another agency. City Manager Kukulski stated that, if the Commission authorizes the Mayor to sign the amendment, the next step will be to bring back a budget amendment to appropriate those monies. It was moved by Commissioner Kirchhoff, seconded by Commissioner Hietala, that Mayor Cetraro be authorized and directed to sign Amendment No.1 to the Interlocal Agreement for the Creation, Establishment and Governance of Montana Public Power Authority to authorize additional expenditures. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Commissioner Kirchhoff, Commissioner Hietala, Commissioner Youngman, and Mayor Cetraro; those voting No, none. Commissioner Krauss abstained. Informal review of conceDt Dlan for annexation, arowth Dolicy amendment and zone map amendment to establish a zonina desianation of "RS" on 160-acre tract lYing at the northeast corner of the intersection of Fowler Avenue and Patterson Road - Vector Group, LLC, for Kainz Family Limited Trust (1-05037) Included in the Commissioners' packets was a memo forwarding the concept plan for annexation, growth policy amendment and zone map amendment, as proposed by Vector Group, LLC, for the Kainz Family Limited Trust under Application No. 1-05037, on a 160-acre tract lying at the northeast corner of the intersection of Fowler Avenue and Patterson Road. Assistant Planning Director Chris Saunders noted that the subject 160-acre parcel lies outside but adjacent to the City's current planning area. He stated the applicant is seeking Commission feedback on whether annexation, a growth policy amendment to include this parcel, and an "R-S", Residential-Suburban, zoning designation would be given favorable consideration at this time. He indicated that development is not anticipated at this time, and the "R-S" zoning would be a holding zone until a specific proposal is prepared. He noted that the land use map recently adopted by Gallatin County identifies the Kainz property for moderate intensity development, with more of an urban character. The Assistant Planning Director stated that staff, the Development Review Committee, the Planning Board, and the Zoning Commission have reviewed this informal application, and a synopsis of their comments is included in the packets. He stated that water and sewer services are not currently available to the site; however, with the extension of those services to the JCD property, they will be close. Also, this parcel can be well served by Fowler Avenue, Patterson road and South 19th Avenue as well as the future extensions of Goldenstein Lane and South 27th Avenue. He indicated that the extensions of water and sewer services are anticipated within the next five to seven years; and the extension of those municipal services will open even more lands in this quadrant to development. He noted the general consensus of the advisory bodies is that it is appropriate to look at this property developing within city limits in the long term, but not today. 11-28-05 - 7 - Ms. Ami Grant, Vector Group, stated that, when she initially purchased this property, she was considering its development in the county. She has recognized, however, that might not be the best option and is now looking for advice and direction from the Commission on whether to pursue annexation and zoning to allow development on municipal services. She cautioned that the financial constraints for her include the possible requirement that infrastructure be installed immediately rather than when she is ready to develop. Commissioner Krauss expressed his preference for growth inside the city, to city standards. He noted that not long ago, in a different location, the developer was not encouraged to proceed with annexation because of the strain it would have placed on the infrastructure. In this instances, the road structure is largely in place and the water and sewer services will be extended close to the site within the next few years; and he sees no problem with annexing it. He then noted that it is preferable to have development occur within city limits, to city standards rather than allowing it to develop within the county and later try to retrofit it to meet city standards. He stressed the importance of not creating another West Babcock Street, Durston Road or Sourdough Road situation. Commissioner Kirchhoff stated he supports annexation of the parcel and, in fact, feels it is imperative to annex land near the city is that ready for development rather than allowing it to develop within the county. Responding to questions from Ami Grant, Assistant Planning Director Saunders assured her that, with annexation, the applicant is required to provide an easement for the appropriate right-of-way width for street improvements; however, construction of the infrastructure will not be required until the property is platted and ready for development. City Manager Kukulski noted that the community will hit a 6-percent growth rate this year and, what once appeared to be way outside the city is no longer. He expressed concurrence with Commissioner Krauss's comment that there would be nothing worse than allowing this parcel to develop outside city limits, and not to City standards. He noted the City has learned a lot from the manner in which the northwest quadrant of the community, and it now has an opportunity to be proactive in development in the southwest quadrant. He then reminded the Commission that the facilities plan show that, with a 5-percent annual growth rate, Bozeman will be at an 88,000 population in 2025, and stressed the importance of planning for the next 10,000 people now. Commissioner Youngman expressed her delight that the applicant is not proposing immediate development of this property but is willin~ to allow for development to occur in a more orderly fashion. She stressed that rural neighbors will be a ected by development of adjacent properties, noting that it is important to buffer those properties with decreased densities on the margins, and to ensure that the water table is not impacted, that natural features such as watercourses and mature vegetation are protected, and that the development does not negatively impact any irrigation flows. She also expressed her interest in seeing Fowler Lane improved with a shared bicycle/pedestrian pathway that she would like to see extended from the interstate to Hyalite Canyon. She concluded by expressing her support for annexation with delayed development. Mr. Don Siefert, 5700 Fowler Lane, noted he resides immediately north of the subject parcel. He cautioned that the groundwater on this property is so high that it cannot be developed at county standards. He characterized this proposed annexation as sprawl. He then expressed concern that annexation and development trigger the requirement for an amendment to the growth policy, a document that he views as a contract between the City and the citizens in and near its corporate limits. He concluded by stating this site is not ready for development and suggesting there is no need to push for it right now. Ms. Chris Siefert, 5700 Fowler Lane, identified the subject property as her "Aunt Rita's place". She asked that the developer be asked to work with the residents in the area, noting that recent experience with the Miller property revealed the residents and the developer can work well together. She noted that water is an issue, stating that the County previously turned down a proposal to allow development at one unit per acre. She voiced concern about getting runoff on her property from another property and asked that good covenants be enacted to protect everyone. She acknowledged that other properties in this area will be annexed and developed; she asked that it be done in a manner that protects those living in the area. Ms. Ami Grant stated her vision is to protect the natural amenities on the site and to protect the downstream users. She concluded by thanking the Commissioners for their input. 11-28-05 ---..---- - 8 - Discussion - FYI Items The following "For Your Information" items were forwarded to the Commission. (1 ) Copy of an e-mail from Steven Eiger submitting his resignation from the Bozeman Area Bicycle Advisory board. (2) Letter from Jeff Rader, 318 North 20th Avenue, regarding the special improvement district for Durston Road. (3) Letter from Nathan Hecht, 302 Treasure Avenue, regarding the special improvement district for Durston Road. (4) Letter from Lucy Dwarshuis, 132 Hoffman Drive, regarding the traffic signal at the intersection of South Willson Avenue and West College Street. (5) Copy of the City's holiday schedule for 2006. (6) Copy of the notice for the public meeting on the Churn Creek sub-area plan, scheduled for 1 :00 p.m. on Saturday, December 3, at the Bozeman Public Library. (7) Minutes from the Solid Waste Management District meeting held on November 16, 2005. (8) Minutes from the Gallatin City-County Board of Health meetings held on September 22 and October 27,2005. (9) Agendas for the County Commission meetings to be held at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 29, and at 1 :30 p.m. on Wednesday, November 30, at the Courthouse. (10) Agenda for the Development Review Committee meeting to be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 30, at the Professional Building. (11 ) City Manager Kukulski submitted the following. (1) Stated that representatives from Bresnan Communications has looked at this Community Room and will submit a sketch on Wednesday showing how it is to be wired for televising of Commission meetings. He indicated that cameras on tripods are to be used to minimize the impacts of drilling holes. (2) Noted that one of the items on next week's agenda will be ratification of his signature on an agreement with MSU for police services that will result in the writing of tickets into the municipal court since most of the MSU campus is within city limits. (3) Suggested that the Commission consider a proposal to plow all streets within city limits within 48 hours after a snowstorm. He recognized that this will require analysis of equipment and staffing levels ad suggested that on-street parking may need to be limited to allow for efficient clearing of the streets. (12) Director of Finance Anna Rosenberry noted that the first draft of the new City website was revealed during last week's staff meeting. It is hoped that the new website will be updated and ready for public access in January. She asked for Commissioner comment on the type of presence they wish to see on the website. (13) Assistant City Manager Ron Brey stated that Park and Recreation Superintendent Ron Dingman, Cemetery Foreman Tim Murphy and Superintendent of Facilities and Lands James Goehrung have been working with the Bridger Ski Foundation and the Gallatin Valley Land Trust in the development of ski trails. He encouraged the Commissioners to view the facilities, noting the objective was to create a world class in town ski facility, and he feels they have accomplished that. (14) Director of Public Service Debbie Arkell submitted the following. (1) Announced that the Christmas lights on Main Street are to be hung on Wednesday morning; and Christmas Stroll is on Saturday. She noted the snow berm is to be removed on Thursday night in preparation for Saturday's activities. (2) Stated that she has been approached by the manager of Empire Lumber about the possibility of purchasing or trading for a piece of the Mandeville property. (3) Stated that a preview of the Wastewater Treatment Plan facilities plan reflects costs of $50 to $63 million for a new treatment plant to serve the community for the next twenty years. (4) Stated she will distribute a copy of the snow and ice control plan to the Commissioners if they wish. (5) Announced that, with the limitations on those who may use the City's 11-28-05 -9- landfill, it is projected the landfill will last another four years. She noted that the revenues are now approximately $400 a day. (15) Commissioner Youngman submitted the following. (1) Stated that Alec Hansen left information on the low income energy assistance program (L1EAP) with her. She noted that the Governor has proposed this issue be considered during the special session; however, the Legislature wishes to limit that session to school funding only. She also noted that by December 5, the Congress will have taken action on this issue as well. (2) Stated that she skied the trails on the Bridger Golf Course today and saw many people who were happy to see the new trail. (3) Noted that she spoke to Linda Babcock's fifth grade class once again and found that she knew many of the students' parents. Adiournment - 9:00 p.m. There being no further business to come before the Commission at this time, it was moved by Commissioner Kirchhoff, seconded by Commissioner Hietala, that the meeting be adjourned. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Commissioner Kirchhoff, Commissioner Hietala, Commissioner Krauss, Commissioner Youngman, an~ Mayor Cetraro; those voting No. none. r -- ~ ---- I- lJ-- AND ~V\ ~. l..ETRARO, Mayor ATTEST: ~./~ L. SULLIVAN City Clerk 11-28-05