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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005-11-14 Minutes, City Commission MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE CITY COMMISSION BOZEMAN,MONTANA November 14, 2005 ***************************** The Commission of the City of Bozeman met in regular session in the Community Room, Gallatin County Courthouse, 311 West Main Street. on Monday, November 14, 2005, at 6:00 p.m. Present were 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, Planning Director Andy Epple, City Attorney Paul Luwe, and City Clerk Robin Sullivan. Mayor Andrew Cetraro was absent. Signina of Notice of SDeclal Meetina Each of the Commissioners, in turn, signed the Notice of Special Meeting. Work Session M Continued review of DroDosed UDO revisions Distributed just prior to the meeting were letters from Marcia Kaveney and Jeanne Wesley-Wiese and Paul Wiese, voicing concern about the proposed revision to allow small scale restaurants in the HMU district. Assistant Planning Director Chris Saunders continued review of the proposed revisions to the unified development ordinance, beginning with No. 19. He noted that this revision applies to the BP, R-4 and R-Q zoning districts and would expand the uses allowed within those zones to include many of those allowed in the B-1 zoning district. He suggested that, if the Commission wishes to further consider this revision, it could be tied to Nos. 23 through 33 and addressed as a package. Since copies of the revision were not included in the Commissioners' packets, they continued discussion of this item to next week's meeting. The Assistant Planning Director turned his attention to No. 21, which is to allow restaurants in the M-1 zoning district. He gave a brief history on allowing retail uses in the M-1 zone, noting that several years ago the Commission chose to restrict all retail uses within that district. Subsequently, the Commission approved an amendment to allow restaurants associated with food processing facilities. This amendment would remove the restriction that a restaurant be associated with a food processing facility. The Assistant Planning Director reminded the Commission that the HMU zoning district on the northeast side of town incorporates by reference those uses permitted in both the M-1 and R-2 zoning districts. As a result, if the Commission chooses to forward this proposed revision, it could have a ripple effect on the HMU area that has unintended consequences. He cautioned that, since restaurants would be permitted principal uses, they would be subject to site plan review only unless alcoholic beverages were to be sold, thus triggering the conditional use process. He then indicated that. if the Commission wishes, it could allow restaurants in the M-1 zoning district but not the HMU zoning district. Ms. Jeanne Wesley-Wiese, 707 North Wallace Avenue, voiced her objection to the proposed revision. She noted approximately one-half of the HMU district is residential, and the proposal could have a negative impact on the livability of the area that may not be addressed through site plan review. She noted that none of the residents are totally opposed to some kind of sandwich shop with limited hours or other low-impact activity. They are, however, concerned about the potential for increased traffic problems and extended hours of operation for restaurants under the proposed . Mr. Todd Hoitsma, 702 East Peach Street, stated he has no objection to a coffee shop or a deli lunch facility, but he is concerned about the potential for a restaurant serving alcohol. He noted that traffic is already an issue, and additional traffic and the hours of operation could further impact the neighborhood. He encouraged the Commission to be more restrictive if such uses are to be allowed in the HMU district as well as the M-1 district. He concluded by noting traffic is his primary concern. 11-14-05 - 2 - Ms. Marcia Kaveney, 630 East Davis Street, expressed her wholehearted support for allowing restaurants in the M-1 zoning district, but asked that they not be allowed in the HMU district until after the board for the tax increment financing district has an opportunity to become established and look at the activities to be allowed and encouraged within that area. Mr. Jon Gerster, 719 North Wallace Avenue, noted that no one disagrees with the need for a convenient place to eat close to where one works. He stated, however, that allowing a restaurant without tailoring its requirements to the district where people live in a dense, mixed-use way is inappropriate. He asked the Commission to give the neighborhood a chance to be part of the process as it develops. He stated that hours of operation are his main concern, particularly since the residents enjoy the quiet and the ability to rejuvenate after 5 p.m. on weekdays and on weekends because a majority of the commercial activities in the area are closed at those times. He cautioned that, without some limitations on restaurants, this revision flies in the face of the changes that are being undertaken in this sector of the community. Mr. Chris Nixon, 719 North Wallace Avenue, stated that, until he was around the greasy smell of restaurants and the traffic and activity they generate, he thought having one across the street would be a good idea. He now feels there may be areas in the core of the industrial uses where a restaurant may be appropriate, but not adjacent to a residence. He encouraged the Commissioners to not eliminate the option of a restaurant, deli shop, or coffee shop but to allow for them through a public process that helps to assure their compatibility. Mr. Paul Wiese, 707 North Wallace Avenue, stressed that the property owners in this area have worked with the City to develop a fragile balance between residential and commercial uses in the area and asked that these efforts be considered. Mr. Joe McGuire, 713 East Cottonwood Street, stated he has lived within 200 feet of the proposed Mill District project for the past fourteen years. He noted that the HMU district was developed to be an equal balance of the R-2 and M-1 zoning designations. He also noted that the urban renewal plan being considered this evening recognizes that maintaining an equal balance of uses is of utmost importance. He concluded by asking that the Commission take no action on this proposed revision at this time. Commissioner Kirchhoff suggested there is a potential for compromise language to either incorporate the conditional use process and allow for establishing the hours of operation or the potential for making a distinction between the M-1 and HMU zoning districts. Responding to Commissioner Youngman, Assistant Planning Director Saunders indicated that the use list in the HMU zoning district could be revised to say all uses allowed in the M-1 district except for certain uses that could then be listed as conditional uses if the Commission so desires. He then noted that this revision was proposed over a year ago and, if the Commission chooses to forward it through the process, would not become effective until probably twelve to eighteen months from now. Following discussion, a majority of the Commissioners agreed to forward this revision through the process, with restaurants being excepted as a principle use in the HMU district but allowed in the M-1 district. Assistant Planning Director Chris Saunders turned his attention to No. 23, noting this is the first in a series of proposed revisions that affect the BP zoning district. He stated that some of the proposed revisions have already been addressed through changes previously approved. He suggested that Nos. 23 through 30 be considered together, since they all apply to the BP district. Following discussion, the Commissioners concurred that Nos. 23 through 30 should be deleted from further consideration. The Assistant Planning Director noted that Nos. 32 and 33 are linked together and provide for larger setbacks in the BP zoning district to further the character of the district. On a split vote, the Commissioners chose not to forward these proposed revisions. 11-14-05 - 3 - Break - 6:55 to 7:00 D.m. Mayor Pro Tempore Krauss declared a break from 6:55 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., to prepare for the regular meeting. Pledoe of Alleolance and Moment of Silence The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence. Authorize absence of Mayor Cetraro from this meetina It was moved by Commissioner Youngman, seconded by Commissioner Kirchhoff, that Mayor Cetraro's absence be authorized. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Commissioner Youngman, Commissioner Kirchhoff, Commissioner Hietala, and Mayor Pro Tempore Krauss; those voting No, none. Public comment Mr. Dan GUg~enheim, 418 North Wallace Avenue, drew the Commissioners' attention to the memo from Neighborhood oordinator Tracy Oulman regarding traffic calming along North Wallace Avenue. He recognized the Neighborhood Coordinator's excellent help throughout the process, but stressed that no one feels the issue has been resolved and that everyone views this as a continuing program. He concluded by encouraging the Commissioners to remember the older neighborhoods and the need to make them safer places. Mr. Dean Orahood, 521 North Willson Avenue, issued a plea for the Mayor to resign in light of his arrest for domestic disturbance. He stressed the importance of upholding and maintaining the character of the community, and he does not believe that is possible in light of the charges filed against the community's leader. ProDosed olan for Northeast Urban Renewal District (NURDl This was the time and place set for the public hearing on the draft plan for the Northeast Urban Renewal District. Included in the packet was a memo from Assistant City Manager Ron Brey forwarding copies of the draft plan, minutes from the November 8 meeting of the City Planning Board, and an e-mail message from Tim Fry, residenUproperty owner at 603 North Church Avenue objecting to the plan. Public hearing. Mayor Pro Tempore Krauss opened the public hearing. Assistant City Manager Ron Brey presented the staff report. He reminded the Commissioners of the process to date, noting that ThinkTank brought forward a study showing conditions constituting blight, per the state statute definition, existed in the northeast sector of the community and requested that an urban renewal plan be created. He noted that the Commission adopted Commission Resolution No. 3835, declaring that blight existed, and subsequently appointed a 13-member committee to develop an urban renewal plan for the area. The composition of the committee was carefully identified, to ensure that it represented the variety of competing interests and rather opposing views. Complicating the committee's charge was the fact that, if the tax increment was to be realized for the upcoming year, the plan needed to be completed, adopted and in effect at the first of the calendar year. As a result, the committee met eight times, between September 13 and November 8, and the completed consensus plan is now before the Commission for consideration. Assistant City Manager Brey estimated that the increment will be $400,000 over the 15-year life of the district. He indicated that, under this plan, an annual work plan and budget are to be presented to the Commission. The plan also lays out nine guiding principles, which were developed as a result of intense discussion and careful crafting of the language, as follows: 11-14-05 -4- 1. Ensure the health, safety, and security of the district. 2. Balance commerce and livability in the district within the mixed use framework. 3. Honor the unique character and vitality of the district. 4. Public open space is essential to a healthy and appealing urban environment. 5. The costs of projects and programs shall be weighed against their benefits to the district. 6. Private property shall not be acquired for other private use through the eminent domain process in the implementation of any aspect of this plan. 7. The City shall not limit its vision for the district improvements to monies available solely through the TIF funding. 8. Project shall consider impacts on adjacent neighborhoods. 9. The City shall consider the impact on the district of all projects undertaken outside of the district. The Assistant City Manager noted that many goals and implementation actions are identified under each of those principles. Assistant City Manager Brey identified eminent domain as a hot topic during discussions, and this plan removes any potential for using that power for private development or for acquisition of parkland. He further noted that the plan may be amended only by the same process used for implementing it, which includes notice to all property owners and public hearings prior to adoption. The plan further excludes the authority of the urban renewal agency to enter buildings or property to make surveys or appraisals. It also calls for keeping the existing and new housing affordable and habitable. The Assistant City Manager noted that the plan also includes provision for a board comprised of five voting and four non-voting members. The voting membership is to include two residents, two business owners and one member at large, with the non-voting members providing a variety of expertise to assist in implementing the plan. Responding to Commissioner Hietala, the Assistant City Manager estimated the annual tax increment at $28,000 to $32,000. He then stressed that, to capture the initial increment, it is essential that this plan be adopted and in place prior to the end of the calendar year. Commissioner Youngman thanked Assistant City Manager Brey for the quality assistance that he and Neighborhood Coordinator Oulman provided to the committee. She also thanked the committee for its hard work and unanimous conclusion on an extremely aggressive schedule. Mr. Chris Nixon, 719 North Wallace Avenue, noted he was not on the committee but was privileged to attend the last meeting. He was impressed that a group of people from very diverse backgrounds and with different viewpoints treated each other with respect and worked hard to develop a plan on which they could provide unanimous support. He noted the plan gives the neighborhood greater control and encouraged approval. Mr. Jon Gerster, 719 North Wallace Avenue, noted he was a member of the committee. He stated the plan requires a lot of cooperation and tolerance for different uses. While support of the plan is not unanimous within the neighborhood, he finds the plan provides the greatest neighborhood control possible. He noted that when this process was started a few months ago, there was a considerable amount of concern with the blight designation, and the area is still trying to overcome the sting of that word. He acknowledged that many people would like to see the northeast area remain the same; however, he acknowledged that as Bozeman grows, neighborhoods either improve or decline, and this plan gives the district the tools to guide its own improvement. He concluded by stating that, as a resident, a business owner, and a member of the committee, he supports the proposed plan and encourages Commission approval. 11-14-05 - 5 - Since there were no Commissioner objections, Mayor Pro Tempore Krauss closed the public hearing. Decision. Commissioner Krauss voiced his appreciation for the committee's work and dedication to the community in the larger sense and the willingness to discuss and compromise in drafting this plan. It was moved by Commissioner Kirchhoff, seconded by Commissioner Hietala, that the Commission approve the urban renewal plan for the northeast sector of the community as submitted. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Commissioner Kirchhoff, Commissioner Hietala, Commissioner Youngman, and Mayor Pro Tempore Krauss; those voting No, none. Ordinance No. 1655 M adoptina Northeast Urban Renewal District (NURO) olan 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 Hietala, seconded by Commissioner Y oyngman, that Ordinance No. 1655, adopting the Northeast Urban Renewal District plan, be provisionally adopted and that it be brought back in two weeks for final adoption. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Commissioner Hietala, Commissioner Youngman, Commissioner Kirchhoff, and Mayor Pro Tempore Krauss; those voting No, none. Adootion of Three Parks Master Plan Included in the Commissioners' packets were a memo from Superintendent of Facilities and Lands James Goehrung forwarding a copy of the master plan; a memo from Superintendent of Parks and Recreation Ron Dingman forwarding a proposed revision to the trail alignment through Tuckerman Park; a letter from Joseph W. Sabol, II, attorney representing the Gardner Park Nature Conservancy, regarding the construction of a proposed parking lot in exchange for a deed restriction; and letters from the Sacajawea Audubon Society and Sundance Springs Residential Owners Association regarding the proposed plan and protection of bird habitat. Superintendent of Facilities and Lands James Goehrung noted this park master plan is the result of a lot of time, work and coordination with the community and the residents of the area. He noted the master plan is designed to provide gUidance for development and allocation of resources for maintaining various parks. He reviewed the issues that remain outstanding, as identified in his memo, noting they are to be resolved prior to adoption of the plan. Those issues are: (1) determine whether or not to accept the concept of an easement agreement for the Gardner Park Nature Conservancy; (2) acknowledge the policy adopted by the Sundance Springs Resident Owners Association (SSROA) regarding park encroachments in Sundance Springs and encourage them to remain vigilant on such encroachments; (3) determine whether or not to accept the planting plan and maintenance agreement proposed by the SSROA for the two acres on the west side of the creek; (4) determine whether or not to accept the concept of an easement agreement for the public access point through the Sundance Springs private open space with restrictions as proposed by the SSROA; (5) determine whether or not to assume maintenance responsibilities for McLeod Park and direct staff to negotiate a maintenance agreement with the County to fund those costs; (6) determine whether or not to enter into an annual agreement on weed control practices; (7) determine whether or not to request that the SSROA complete the trail easement for the private open space along Goldenstein Road from Morning Sun Drive westward; and (8) determine the final location ofthe connector trail from Sourdough Trail to Tuckerman Park. Mr. Cory Lawrence, 4510 Morning Sun Drive, thanked the Commission for the opportunity to participate in the process, noting that this master plan encompasses many divergent and differing views. 11-14-05 - 6 - He noted that, upon adoption of the plan, steps can be taken toward its implementation, and encouraged the Commission to adopt it at this meeting. Responding to Mayor Pro Tempore Krauss, Ms. Susan Swimley, attorney representing the Sundance Springs Resident Owners' Association (SSROA), assured him that the association does exist. She assured the Commissioners that, if this association ceases to exist, the open space must be transferred to another non-profit entity. She then noted that the SSROA has gone through incorporation with the State and, as a result, she does not feel there should be any concern about whether it will continue to exist. Ms. Anne Sexton Bryan, 18 Gardner Park Drive, urged approval of the master plan, stating she feels it works well for both the city residents and the county residents. She noted that the initial plans for the parking lot were not in keeping with Mrs. Gardner's wishes when she dedicated the parkland; and the alternative plan does meet those wishes and provides adequate parking at the existing trailhead. Mr. Ron Kaiser, 4416 Morning Sun Drive, member of the SSROA board, stated he is also one of the ten residents on Morning Sun Drive abutting the park. He noted that the plan before the Commission encompasses a lot of public comment and good faith. He voiced a commitment to the planting and maintenance of trees in the western portion of the park and to spearheading the easement along Goldenstein Lane. He stated this plan provides a good solution for the parks in this area as well as the residents. He cautioned that this plan, as drafted, reflects a package acceptable to the residents; and changing parts of it could negate neighborhood support. He concluded by encouraging the Commission to adopt the plan as presented, recognizing that it can be amended later if necessary. Responding to Mayor Pro Tempore Krauss, Mr. Kaiser stated that Nine Bark Design has created the landscape plan for the western portion of Tuckerman Park, and the Audubon Society has reviewed it to ensure its effectiveness as bird habitat. Mr. Russ Tuckerman, 43 Gardner Park Drive, characterized this plan as the "three lawyer park plan", voicing his frustration that it has taken twelve years to develop a mediocre plan. He further noted this plan is ninety pages, compared to many of the other park plans that are eight to ten pages long. He questioned why the parking lot in Gardner Park is not competing with other projects for parkland fund monies, but also suggested that the $2,500 previously earmarked for the bridge in Tuckerman Park be re-allocated to assist with the parking lot since the bridge is no longer to be constructed under this plan. Mr. Tuckerman turned his attention to the proposal that there be no signage announcing public access to the park, stating he views that as a deal breaker. He then addressed McLeod Park, noting that memos from last year show County Commissioner Murdock indicated that $1,000 was available to cover maintenance costs. He next addressed the dueling staff opinions about the trail alignment at the northeast corner of the park, stating his preference for the alignment in Park and Recreation Superintendent Dingman's memo. He concluded by encouraging Commission approval of the plan at this meeting. Responding to Commissioner Youngman, Superintendent of Facilities and Lands Goehrung stated that the monies earmarked for parkland improvement projects remain in that fund and roll over from year to year. Since the Commission makes the decision on how those monies are spent, it may re-allocate those monies from the bridge to the parking lot if it so chooses. Further responding to Commissioner Youngman, the Superintendent stated that staff is sensitive to the use of herbicides and attempts to use alternative methods. He noted, however, he does not wish to have staff hamstrung in aggressively addressing infestations should the need arise. Commissioner Youngman voiced her support for adopting the plan as submitted, with the revised trail alignment for the connector trail, reallocation of the parkland improvement monies, and seeking County funding for maintenance of McLeod Park. Mayor Pro Tempore Krauss voiced his appreciation for Mr. Tuckerman's comments and his dedication to the parks. He then asked if the County needs to accept the plan since it includes McLeod Park, which is a county park. He stated that he has no problem with the trail alignment proposed by Parks and Recreation Superintendent Dingman. He concluded by noting that, while there are things about the plan that give him heartburn, he finds it appropriate to adopt the plan. 11-14-05 - 7 - It was moved by Commissioner Youngman, seconded by Commissioner Kirchhoff, that the Three Parks Master Plan be adopted as amended to include the revised connection of the trail in Tuckerman Park to the Sourdough Trail at approximately 30 feet south of the property line, as proposed in Park and Recreation Superintendent Dingman's memo, and that the monies previously allocated for construction of a bridge in Tuckerman Park be released and re-allocated for the parking lot in Gardner Park Subdivision. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Commissioner Youngman, Commissioner Kirchhoff, Commissioner Hietala, and Mayor Pro Tempore Krauss; those voting No, none. Break M 8:28 to 8:36 o.m. Mayor Pro Tempore Krauss declared a break from 8:28 p.m. to 8:36 p.m., in accordance with Commission policy. Presentation of oroDosed sianalization improvements at intersection of South Willson Avenue and West Colleae Street M Montana DeDartment of Transoortation Included in the Commissioners' packets was a memo from Director of Public Service Debbie Arkell, forwarding information on proposed signalization improvements and public comment. Additional public comment was distributed just prior to the meeting. It was moved by Commissioner Hietala, seconded by Commissioner Youngman, that the Commission's rules of procedure be suspended for this portion of the meeting and that it be conducted by a facilitator. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Commissioner Hietala, Commissioner Youngman, Commissioner Kirchhoff, and Mayor Pro Tempore Krauss; those voting No, none. Mr. Jim Madden, Community Mediation Center, reviewed the guidelines for this presentation and discussion. He identified the four main issues that have arisen as a result of previous discussions, including: safety, maintenance and enhancement of historic neighborhood, parking, and management of increased traffic in city as a whole. Ms. Jane Klockman, 713 South Willson Avenue, expressed opposition to the revised plan for the traffic signal, characterizing it as more dangerous and obtrusive than the plan submitted last year. She stated it is premature to approve the plan and asked the Commission to "stop, look and listen" to the citizens. Mr. Wade Pannell, 725 South Willson Avenue, suggested there are many less drastic measures to address the safety of the intersection without impacting the historic character of the area. He cited Table 4-3 in the Greater Bozeman Area Transportation Plan, 2001 Update, noting this intersection is not listed among the top 25 accident locations, and questioned why this intersection is targeted for signalization when those intersections have not been addressed. He encouraged the Commission to consider the neighborhood proposal, which includes curbing and landscaped boulevards for 100 feet north and south of the intersection, restricted parking to improve sight distances, larger stop signs with flashers, and photo ticketing on South Willson Avenue. He encouraged the Commission to celebrate the historic district and to implement smaller interim measures to protect public safety rather than a traffic signal. Mr. Jeff Ebert, Montana Department of Transportation, noted this intersection is on the TSM list in the transportation plan and, when the City was asked to nominate a location for federal safety funding, signalization of this intersection was the one chosen, and was one of five selected after a statewide competition. He noted that, of the sixteen accidents recorded over a three-year period, twelve were injury accidents. Ms. Joanne Jensen stated she owns the Children's Development Center at 804 South Willson Avenue. She is concerned about the proposal to relocate the parking from the north side of West College Street to the south side of the street, noting she prefers the parking at it is. Mr. Roy Peterson, project manager, indicated he has no problem with maintaining the parking as it exists on West College Street. He then provided information on the engineering standards for adding a turning lane at this intersection within the existing roadway. 11-14-05 -8- Ms. J.P. Pomnichowski stated that not widening South Willson Avenue will do much to retain its character, and reducing parking on the west, north, and south legs will improve safety of its intersection with West College Street. Mr. Jim Devitt, 613 South Willson Avenue, expressed his disappointment in this new plan, stating he finds it less appropriate than the previous plan. He identified the historic character and the safety of neighborhood residents, drivers and pedestrians as key concerns. He encouraged the Commission to delay this proposal while others are considered. He proposed that smaller steps be implemented and then monitored first, recognizing the City may lose the $150,000 that has been earmarked for this project. He concluded by stating that he believes this intersection works as it is, noting that he crosses it to reach the University campus on a daily basis. Mr. Ralph Zimmer, member of the Pedestrian/Traffic Safety Committee, stated a majority of that body feel this intersection needs to be signalized and that the plan before the Commission is a reasonable way to do so. Mr. Mike Neeley, member of the Historic Preservation Advisory Board, suggested there may be middle ground between the neighborhood's proposal and the traffic signal that should be considered prior to taking action. Mr. Bob Lashaway, member of the Transportation Coordinating Committee, noted that the severity and number of accidents are inextricably linked to capacity. He then reminded the Commission that this intersection meets four of the warrants for a traffic signal, making this a unique intersection that should be given careful consideration. Mr. Jeff Ebert noted that, based on Commission comments from previous meetings, the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) has looked carefully at eliminating on-street parking on both sides of the street, restricting left turns from southbound South Willson Avenue eastbound onto West College Street, and minimizing the impacts of a traffic signal on the historic nature of the area. He stressed that a consulting firm will be retained to complete a full environmental assessment prior to any work being done at this intersection, with all of the applicable analyses being completed in conjunction with the use of federal monies. He noted that black powder coated signal poles have not been viewed as acceptable, so the MDT will consider other options. Also, he indicated that the MDT has considered restricting parking for 100 feet rather than the 250 feet identified in their standards in an effort to minimize impacts. He then indicated that a state law change is required to allow photo ticketing on South Willson Avenue. He concluded by expressing a willingness to listen and to work toward reaching a middle ground that improves the safety of the intersection while addressing the concerns of the residents. Several residents in the general area spoke briefly on this issue, both for and against the installation of a traffic signal. Following that input, someone asked if a roundabout has been considered for this intersection. Mr. Roy Peterson responded that additional right-of-way would be needed to accommodate a round about at this intersection. Mayor Pro Tempore Krauss thanked the mediator for overseeing this portion of the meeting and asked that the Commissioners provide input on this issue. Commissioner Kirchhoff suggested that prohibiting left turns onto West College Street could be investigated, if it helps address the concerns about car storage, safety at driveways, and maintaining the level of service and reducing accidents. He then voiced an interest in considering a roundabout at this intersection as long as it can be designed within the existing right-of-way. He does not believe that the intersection can remain as it is, or that a larger stop sign and flashing light will address the issue. He finds, rather, that a major improvement is needed to make sure this intersection is safe and that the minor arterial flows properly. Commissioner Hietala voiced his support for proceeding in small steps, even though the City may stand to lose the $150,000 federal funding in the process. He also supports considering a roundabout, and noted he is not sure what a flashing light might accomplish. 11-14-05 -9- Commissioner Youngman voiced her agreement with exploring the option of a roundabout at this intersection. She recognized why a left turn lane cannot be provided on one leg of South Willson Avenue and not the other, noting that doing so would put traffic in an improper position when moving through the intersection. She then voiced concern with the problems that could result from reconfiguring the driving lanes on South Willson Avenue to accommodate left turn lanes, particularly for those homes where backing onto the street is required. She voiced interest in considering a two-step process rather than moving immediately to the installation of a traffic signal. Mayor Pro Tempore Krauss cautioned there may not be adequate room for even a minimum roundabout, but indicated an interest in considering it. He then indicated that South Willson Avenue works; however, West College Street does not and that is where the accidents arise. He acknowledged that this would be the first traffic signal in an historic residential area in town, however, he stressed they can be found in other cities. He indicated that, while he would support the installation of a traffic signal, he remains uncertain about turn lanes. His primary concern is making West College Street and this intersection safer. Commissioner Kirchhoff stated he finds a traffic signal is the best alternative, noting he does not believe any of the halfway measures will provide the safety needed at this intersection. He does not see signalization as destroying the neighborhood, but as a mechanism to provide safety and ensure appropriate traffic flow on the minor arterial. Commissioner Hietala noted the neighborhood is requesting a middle ground approach. He agrees that the traffic needs to flow and that the historic character of this neighborhood needs to be preserved. He noted that the transportation plan is to be updated in 2006, and suggested it may be appropriate to await that update before making changes at this intersection. Mayor Pro Tempore Krauss stated he feels a roundabout and no left turn lanes are key issues to be investigated further. He stressed that South Willson Avenue is a pipeline to the downtown as well as an historic avenue. He then indicated support for pursuing incremental steps, stating he cannot support the installation of a traffic signal at this time. City Manager Kukulski suggested that, within an hour, the Montana Department of Transportation staff would probably be able to tell if a roundabout meeting minimum standards would be a possibility. He then stressed that safety at this intersection is the issue, not the monies set aside for it. Mr. Jeff Ebert identified roundabouts and eliminating the left turn eastbound onto West College Street as two outstanding issues to be addressed. Commissioner Youngman identified the safety of backing into a driving lane, sight lines, and more incremental options as additional items to be addressed. It was moved by Commissioner Kirchhoff, seconded by Commissioner Hietala, that this item be continued to the December 5 meeting. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Commissioner Kirchhoff, Commissioner Hietala, Commissioner Youngman, and Mayor Pro Tempore Krauss; those voting No, none. Discussion M FYI Items The following "For Your Information" items were forwarded to the Commission. (1 ) Letter from the Bozeman Tree Advisory Board, dated November 9, thanking the Commission for its efforts to save the existing trees along the northward extension of Fowler Avenue. (2) E-mail from Vranna Sue Hinck and Larry Hinck, expressing opposition to the proposed special improvement district for Durston Road. (3) Letter from Yellowstone Country Montana Board of Directors forwarding Cynthia Andrus' resignation as the City of Bozeman's representative on the board. (4) Letter from the Human Resource Development Council, dated November 3, requesting adoption of a resolution designating HRDC as the inter~m public transportation provider. 11-14-05 - 10 - (5) Memo from Neighborhood Coordinator Oulman, dated October 27, providing an update on Phase II of traffic calming measures on North Wallace Avenue. (6) Minutes from the Solid Waste Management District board meeting held on October 19. (7) Meeting summary from the Bozeman Area Bicycle Advisory Board meeting held on November 1. (8) Agenda for the School District NO.7 Board of Trustees meeting to be held at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, November 14, at the Willson School. (9) Agendas for the County Commission meetings to be held at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 15, at Three Forks, and at 1 :30 p.m. on Wednesday, November 16, at the Courthouse. (10) Agendas for the Zoning Commission meeting to be held at 7:00 p.m. and the Planning Board meeting to be held at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 15, in the Commission Room. (11) Agenda for the Development Review Committee meeting to be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 16, at the Professional Building. (12) Agenda for the Cemetery Board meeting to be held at 1 :00 p.m. on Thursday, November 17, in the Conference Room at City Hall. Adjournment M 11 :00 O.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 Youngman, and Mayor Pro Tempore Krauss; those voting No, none. ~/(~~ J . K USS, Mayor Pro Tempore ATTEST: ~~~~ ROBIN L. SULLlVA City Clerk 11-14-05 ______m__