HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005-06-13 Minutes, City Commission
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MINUTES OF THE WORK SESSION MEETING
OF THE CITY COMMISSION
BOZEMAN, MONTANA
June 13, 2005
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The Commission of the City of Bozeman met in work session in the Community Room, Gallatin
County Courthouse, 311 West Main Street, on Monday, June 13, 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, Planning Director Andy
Epple, City Attorney Paul Luwe and Clerk of the Commission Robin Sullivan.
The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence.
Public comment
Ms. Jenny Haubenreiser, Community Alcohol Coalition (CAC), noted that enabling legislation for keg
registration was adopted during the past legislative session; and that legislation was heavily supported by
the Montana League of Cities and Towns and several large cities. In addition to proceeding with its
recommendations for that program, the Community Alcohol Coalition is moving forward with two other policy
priorities, the host provisions and the safe neighborhood ordinance, and is undertaking community
awareness campaigns to facilitate better and more civil relationships, particularly in areas with high
concentrations of university students. She concluded by noting the Department of Education has awarded
a two-year grant to her campus office for a staff position to support the Coalition.
Ms. Connie Campbell, Community Mediation Center (CMC), reminded the Commission of the office
and services that it provides and encouraged the Commission to use them. She noted that CMC worked
with the library lands task force and the Community Affordable Housing Advisory Board and will be working
with Neighborhood Coordinator Tracy Oulman in fall.
Presentation from librarv lands task force
Included in the Commissioners' packets was the recommendation from the library lands task force
along with support information.
City Manager Chris Kukulski noted that the library lands task force was created at the Commission's
direction. He reviewed the members of the task force and the various interests represented, as follows:
Jeff Ball, neighbor; Ron Brey, Assistant City Manager; David Cook, Recreation and Parks Advisory Board;
Alan Kesselheim, Library Board of Trustees; Chris Kukulski, City Manager; Joe McCarty, Gallatin Valley
Land Trust; Chris Mehl, Library Foundation; Alice Meister, Library Director; Bill Muhlenfeld, developer; Dede
Taylor, Historic Preservation Advisory Board; and Marcia Youngman, City Commissioner. He noted this
diverse group was given the task of "developing a plan to maximize the beneficial use of the 14-acre site
surrounding the new, proposed library while meeting the economic constraints of the library project". He
stated that after several meetings, with facilitation of the Community Mediation Center, the task force
developed recommendations upon which there was unanimous support. The recommendations now being
submitted for Commission consideration include:
1. Use the entire balance in the cash-in-lieu of parkland fund - approximately $272,000
2. Relocate and substantial expand Soroptimist Park on the land adjacent to the new
library and sale of the existing site - approximately $450,000
3. Community Transportation Enhancement Project (CTEP) monies to cover the costs
of landscaping - $100,000
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4. Sale of approximately one acre immediately south of the library parking lot (east of
and adjacent to the Story Distributing property) for construction of a "green" building,
approximate~ 10,000 square feet and complementary to the library and the site -
$375,000 to 750,000
5. Future park improvement grant monies - $300,000
6. Restore wetlands and riparian corridor with Aquatic Resource Mitigation funds
through the Montana Wetlands Legacy - $30,000 to $100,000
7. Reserve a site for reconstruction of the Milwaukee Railroad Depot with rebuilding to
be done through community or private funding
The City Manager stated that the task force did not target a specific dollar amount to be generated
by its recommendations but recognized that the cash flow projection from the November 29 presentation
contained a $950,000 shortfall; the task force recommendation could generate $1.5 to $1.8 million in
revenues.
Mr. Chris Mehl, task force member, stressed that this is a unanimous recommendation from a group
that represented two competing interests. He feels this recommendation will protect the open space and
parkland while providing the funds needed for the library. He thanked the City staff for providing assistance
and advice.
Mr. Jeff Ball, task force member, stated he would like to see the recommendations posted at City
Hall and possibly on the Library's website. He noted that everyone is being asked to sacrifice something
in this process and he feels this is a plausible solution that does the greatest good for the greatest number
of people.
Mr. Joe McCarty, task force member, applauded the Commission for the creation of this task force,
noting it provided an opportunity to consider a variety of ideas. He stated that the meetings were truly
collective and thoughtful, and he is proud to have been part of the process that generated this unanimous
recommendation.
Mr. David Cook, task force member, thanked Carson Taylor and Mary Ellen Wolfe for facilitating the
process and for the cooperation that they garnered. He noted that the recreation people have "put their
eggs all in one basket" for this project, including cash-in-lieu funds and future park improvement grant
monies, because they recognize this is an essential part ofthe City. He concluded by stating the Recreation
and Parks Advisory Board supports these recommendations.
Mr. Alan Kesselheim, task force member, credited the Community Mediation Center for the success
of the task force, noting that through this process the members became more cohesive and focused. He
feels the package being presented is workable and noted that the Library Board of Trustees supports it.
Ms. Mary Ellen Wolfe noted that, while she and Carson Taylor facilitated the discussions, the task
force members are the ones that did the work, and congratulated them on their endeavors.
Commissioner Krauss thanked everyone who participated in this process. He noted that, while he
appreciates the recommendation, it is important that the Soroptimists be represented in the process. He
suggested that, if the park is to be relocated, they should have the right to choose the new location, which
should be as prominent as the current location. He then asked several questions about the
recommendations for clarification.
Mr. David Cook noted that the current Soroptimist Park is 0.2 acres, and the task force suggested
that the Soroptimists be given the opportunity to determine how big the relocated park should be, particularly
since it is an important portion of the overall package. He then noted that the Montana Outdoor Science
School has expressed a fairly strong interest in rebuilding the depot.
Commissioner Youngman noted that a letter with a copy of the draft recommendations has been
sent to the known members of the Soroptimists; however, staff was unable to set up a meeting with those
members prior to tonight's meeting.
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City Manager Kukulski addressed the Story Distributing property issue, noting that when the request
for proposals process is undertaken, one of the components will be purchase of the adjacent site and
remediation, if necessary. This will also allow for a more beneficial street alignment to the library site.
Ms. Eva Patton, Montana Outdoor Science School Board of Directors, stated the school sees the
old depot as a home for the future, giving the school stability and an ability to grow. She noted the school
centers on outdoor education for all ages, and this would be an ideal location. Further, the facility would
be open to the public through collaborative features with the library. She stressed that the reconstruction
of the depot would be revenue neutral to the City but would further enhance the site. She suggested the
creation of a cultural center in this area through the addition of the Children's Museum or the Equinox
Theatre on South Wallace Avenue.
Mr. Mike Scott, Greater Yellowstone Coalition, stated their Bozeman office has a staff of twenty and
is committed to staying in the downtown area. He noted they have been looking for a home for nearly two
years and find the opportunity to build a 1 O,OOO-square-foot building on the new library site intriguing. He
noted they plan to include a 1 ,OOO-square-foot meeting room that would be available to the community. He
recognized the access benefits that would result from acquiring the Story Distributing property and
expressed a willingness to pursue that issue.
Commissioner Hietala thanked the task force for the recommendations, stating he feels they will
result in a viable project.
Commissioner Kirchhoff thanked the task force members and the Community Mediation Center for
their work for the community. He appreciates the comprehensive plan of action but is concerned about the
Soroptimist Park portion of the proposal. He encouraged thoughtful deliberation about the proper location
of the parkland and the proportion of built area to open space. He aCknowledged that a top priority is to
redevelop the site and suggested the built environment should be maximized. He further suggested the
potential of a satellite library in the northwest quadrant of the community in lieu of expanding this facility.
Library Director Alice Meister responded that the future expansion of the library was included to
ensure that this new library does not become landlocked like the current library. She then noted the
community is not large enough for a branch library at this time, but one might be considered as the
community grows.
Commissioner Krauss noted the map shows good ideas, but stressed those may not be the only
ideas. He recognized that some good ideas may arise from the request for proposals, but he finds this
unanimous compromise from the task force a great plan from which to work.
Assistant City Manager Ron Brey noted that, while urban planning was not considered in the
development of this proposed plan, protection of the critical open space was; and that includes the glen
and the riparian corridor, extension of the Gallagator Trail, and protection of the north side of Peet's Hill.
The protection of those items limits options for development, and that step was consciously taken.
City Manager Chris Kukulski identified the next steps in moving forward with this recommendation,
including formal action to pause in the pursuit of the CTEP grant for improvements to Soroptimist Park,
submit a CTEP grant application for $100,000 for landscaping and an irrigation system at the new library
site, and develop a request for proposals for sale of approximately one acre for a 1 O,OOO-square-foot green
building that complements the library. He cautioned that not all of the monies in the cash-in-lieu of parkland
are currently available, and the $300,000 commitment from parkland improvement grant monies is from
allocations in future budgets, which mayor may not be funded.
City Manager Kukulski noted that a new cash flow sheet has been provided. He stated bills for
construction are now coming in and a $1.3 shortfall is projected at the end of the fiscal year and a potential
$3.9 million shortfall in 2006. In light of that shortfall, he stressed the importance of continued fundraising
efforts and a report from the Library Board and Foundation on how that shortfall is to be funded.
Responding to Commissioner Youngman, the City Manager suggested that a resolution be adopted
to accept the task force recommendations.
Commissioner Krauss suggested that thank you letters be sent to the task force members,
recognizing their contributions to the community.
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Mayor Cetraro thanked everyone who has participated in this process.
Presentation of Larae Format Retail Impact Study as prepared bv Economic & Planning Svstems.
Inc. (EPS)
Included in the Commissioners' packets was a copy of the final report on the Large Format Retail
Impact Study, prepared by Economic & Planning Systems, Inc.
Assistant City Manager Ron Brey reminded the Commission that, after the big box task force
recommendations were received, it was determined the retaining of a consultant was necessary to provide
a basis for considering impacts. Economic & Planning Systems, Inc., was retained to provide those services
and the final report is being presented at this time.
Mr. Dan Guimond, Economic & Planning Systems, gave a power point presentation on the report.
He noted that the report is based on a 2.2-percent annual growth rate in Bozeman and a 2.0-percent annual
growth rate in the trade area, which seems to be lower than the actual growth rates but higher than the rate
used in the growth plan. Based on those calculations, Bozeman is projected to grow to 48,000 in fifteen
years, with a trade area of 110,000; and the total demand will be for almost 1 million square feet of retail
space, or a 55-percent increase over current estimates of retail space.
Mr. Guimond noted there are five large format stores in Bozeman at the present time, and it is
anticipated another two or three large format stores may located here over the next fifteen years. He
suggested that more "category killers", those stores between 20,000 and 40,000 square feet, will locate in
Bozeman than large scale retailers, generally locating in power centers or lifestyle centers. Also, he noted
an additional 75,000 square feet in supermarkets is projected, either through new construction or expansion
of existing grocery stores.
Mr. Guimond stated the second portion of the study measured the fiscal impacts of big box stores
on the community. He gave a brief history of the evolution of big box stores, noting that KMart started in
the 1960s, entering the market at 40,000 square feet. National supermarkets then entered the market in
the late 1960s and early 1970s, and then the Main Mall opened in 1980 as a traditional indoor mall. Since
that time, the supermarkets have expanded to approximately 50,000 square feet each and neighborhood
shopping centers are becoming more predominant that large indoor malls.
Mr. Guimond turned his attention to wages, noting that he did not have the ability to conduct a local
wage survey; however, experience and national research suggest that national retailers pay more than local
retailers, although WalMart's pay is an exception. Under secondary impacts, the multiplier effect shows that
local retailers spend 68 percent locally, compared to 43 percent for national chains. He also recognized that
affordable housing is becoming an issue, particularly since wages rise slower than housing costs. He noted
that this issue is particularly evident in resort communities; and those most affected are in the
accommodations and food service areas, where the average salary is $5.84 per hour, compared to $10.79
per hour for retail.
Responding to Commissioner Hietala, Mr. Guimond stated Bozeman has one ofthe more successful
downtowns in the area, due in part to the fact that it has evolved from more traditional stores to more
specialized retail with a narrower line of products. He noted that the downtown has critical mass and is a
successful retail district; however, it could be threatened by too much suburban retail and unfettered
development of additional national retailing. He cautioned that a lifestyle center could have the greatest
impact on the downtown.
Further responding to Commissioner Hietala, Mr. Guimond stated that the contract for this study was
negotiated down from $74,000 to $60,000 and, as part of that negotiation, the economic model was
removed. He then turned his attention to the policy options, which include setting a soft cap and a hard cap
for big box stores, with the soft cap triggering the need for an economic impact evaluation and the hard cap
being the size limitation.
Responding to comments from Commissioner Kirchhoff, Mr. Guimond noted that at this time, major
retailers want to locate in Bozeman because of its population base and the location of other major stores.
He suggested the City is still in a position of strength because it can require a higher standard of design and
can ensure these stores pay to address impacts on the community.
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Commissioner Krauss noted that new retail may have more impacts on the older entryways, such
as North 7th Avenue, and the mall than on the downtown. He then suggested that the addition of 200,000
square feet of retail space is disproportionate and will have a negative effect on the city in general, and
stated that requiring the new retail to mitigate that effect would be appropriate.
Mr. Guimond confirmed that would be appropriate, both in Bozeman and nationally. He
acknowledged that both North 7th Avenue and West Main Street can be negatively impacted by the new
commercial development, and the entire community is affected by the low paying jobs.
Commissioner Youngman noted that she found many nuggets scattered throughout the study and
she believes there is a rational way to find a nexus between those nuggets and the imposition of fees, in
addition to a linkage fee for affordable housing.
Commissioner Youngman then voiced concern about the premise that the average wage is $10.79
per hour, stating she feels that number is skewed by including full-time administrative positions in the
calculations. She stressed that this figure is not reflective of the retail jobs and salaries, particularly since
the trend is to keep hours low and, therefore, the annual salaries.
Mr. Dan Guimond confirmed that a linkage fee can be tied to the salary, with those paying the lowest
salaries being required to pay the highest linkage fee; and acknowledged the linkage fee set is typically
discounted one-third because of political pressures. He then noted that a review of housing availability is
required as well as a spectrum of housing needs. He suggested that review will reveal entry level housing
is no longer the most significant; rather, it is home ownership for teachers, tellers and police officers.
Assistant City Manager Brey thanked the staff of EPS for their work on this study, noting this
presentation brings their contract to a close. He then indicated a work session will be scheduled soon
because one proposed revision to the unified development ordinance is elimination of the 75,000-square-
foot cap for large scale retail.
Presentation from Chris Thompson reaarding proposal for advertisina on Citv vehicles
Included in the Commissioners' packets was a proposal from Chris Thompson, Signs of Orion, for
advertising on publicly-owned vehicles.
Mr. Chris Thompson suggested that advertising on pUblicly-owned vehicles could generate a lot of
revenue and would preserve Bozeman's beauty by allowing stores to advertise on vehicles rather than
through signage. He noted the advertising could range from simple door panels to full wraps.
City Manager Kukulski indicated that staff must prepare an ordinance to provide the parameters
under which this type of advertising could be allowed. The next step would be to go through the request
for proposals process so that others in this field could respond. He noted this process does not need to take
a long time but must be completed.
A majority of Commissioners indicated interest in pursuing this option.
Pre~application for StoneRidae Sauare Subdivision ~ subdivide approximatelv 34 acres located at
the northwest corner of the intersection of West Oak Street and North 19th Avenue into 8 lots for
commercial development ~ Lowell Sprinaer lP-05017)
Included in the Commissioners' packets was memo forwarding the pre-application for StoneRidge
Square Subdivision, as submitted by Lowell Springer under Application No. P-05017, to subdivide
approximately 34 acres located at the northwest corner of the intersection of West Oak Street and North
19th Avenue into 8 lots for commercial development.
Associate Planner Jami Morris gave an overview of this pre-application, highlighting the issues
which have been identified in the staff analysis. She noted that this application is not for the entire area
considered in the informal review of the planned unit development but involves a portion of the site. She
then indicated that the setback from the wetlands was addressed in 2002, when the Commission voted to
support a reduction in the setbacks.
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Mr. Rick Kerin, consulting engineer, stated he has worked with the Montana Department of
Transportation on the approach to North 19th Avenue and has worked with City staff in preparing maps
detailing the various infrastructure elements and the wetlands boundary.
Mr. Brian Huffaker, Hawkins Company in Boise, noted that the comments from staff and the
Commissioners will be taken into consideration as they prepare the preliminary plat and site plan
applications. He then highlighted the changes that have been made in the pre-application based on the
Commission's previous input. He noted that retail buildings have been moved closer to North 19th Avenue
to create a stronger presence along the street edge. He stressed that, for regional commercial, it is
necessary to retain visible openings to those businesses. He then indicated the appropriate screening and
berming will be provided to meet the requirements of the unified development ordinance.
Mr. Huffaker turned his attention to the neighborhood commercial segment of the plan, noting that
the two shop buildings are designed to resemble the downtown corridor and are anticipated to contain a
small-scale non-traditional shopping area. He stated the adjacent plaza area and central focal design
element are designed to provide a transition between neighborhood and regional commercial development.
He concluded by stating the design will also include a pathway for connectivity, with different color paving
to denote pedestrian crossings through the parking lot.
Commissioner Krauss acknowledged that this plan is better than the previous plan in some areas,
but is lacking in others. He voiced appreciation for moving the two larger retail spaces toward the street and
toward the entry to the development but indicated he does not support the concept for the northeast corner,
where the parking lot is readily visible from North 19th Avenue.
Commissioner Kirchhoff thanked the applicant for the work done to address the issues previously
identified. For the north/south buildings, he asked that some of the parking be eliminated and that building
fenestrations be added to create a more appealing space. He also proposed that the end of the building
closest to the plaza be changed to better interact with that plaza. He then stressed the importance of
delineating the walkway through the site.
Mayor Cetraro concluded the review by thanking the applicants for the opportunity to review the pre-
application.
Break - 10:15 to 10:20 D.m.
Mayor Cetraro declared a break from 10:15 p.m. to 10:20 p.m., in accordance with Commission
policy.
Informal review - reauest for annexation. arowth Dolicy amendment. zone maD amendment and
subdivision of 75 acres located at the southwest corner of the intersection of Huffine Lane and
Cottonwood Road - TD&H Enaineerina and Intrinsik for Dewin Madill (1-05011)
Included in the Commissioners' packets was a memo forwarding the informal application, as
submitted by TD&H Engineering and Intrinsik for Dewin Madill under Application No. 1-05011, for
annexation, growth policy amendment, zone map amendment and subdivision of 75 acres located at the
southwest corner of the intersection of Huffine Lane and Cottonwood Road.
Associate Planner Jami Morris gave an overview of the application, highlighting the issues which
have been identified in the staff analysis. She noted that during Development Review Committee review,
staff voiced an expectation that this subject property would be developed as residential, possibly as a
community center or with live/work units included. Shethen identified adjacent development, which includes
Billion Auto Plaza and a bank to the north. She stated that during its review of this informal application, the
Planning Board wholeheartedly supported the proposed "B-1" zoning for a portion of this site.
Responding to questions from Commissioner Kirchhoff, the Associate Planner noted that the
Planning Board recognized the commercial uses on this site would probably be more "B-2" type uses than
"B-1" uses since the site would support community services rather than services for neighborhoods within
a half mile.
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Mr. Rob Pertzborn, architect representing the applicant, noted that the wetlands on this property
have been identified and he feels a good quality project can be developed while preserving the open space
and sensitive lands. He stated the proposal includes a mix of residential lots and parkland that exceeds
requirements. He noted that an "M-1" designation has been requested for the existing warehouse; however,
its uses will be restricted through covenants.
Responding to Commissioner Kirchhoff, Mr. Pertzborn stated the applicant's team has tried to buffer
residential development from Huffine Lane as much as possible. He acknowledged that additional
residential development could be incorporated into the project, but cautioned that those units adjacent to
a highway may not be marketable, particularly at the intersection of two major streets.
Commissioner Krauss voiced his appreciation for continuation of the trail but voiced concern about
the proposed park adjacent to Huffine Lane.
Commissioner Kirchhoff noted that he, too, is concerned about parkland adjacent to Huffine Lane
but suggested that trees and berming might help to alleviate those concerns. He suggested a preferable
alternative would be to consolidate the parkland and place it in a more central location.
Mayor Cetraro noted the idea of a community center is intriguing and could potentially attract people
to the site. He also voiced support for the proposal to include berming adjacent to the parkland.
Commissioner Kirchhoff recognized that this intersection of two major streets "screams for
commercial", but asked that that type of devlopment be considered as the last option.
Commissioner Youngman encouraged the applicant to consider "R-4" zoning to allow for high
density development or possibly an "R-Q" zoning designation that would allow some commercial. She
cautioned that the neighborhood commercial designation can lead to undesirable development proposals,
and that zoning designation at this attractive corner would simply invite abuse. She suggested that a more
restrictive zoning designation could help to ensure this site is developed as envisioned.
Mayor Cetraro thanked the applicant for the opportunity to review this informal proposal for
annexation and development.
Informal review - reauest for annexation. zone map amendment and subdivision of 13 acres located
at the southeast corner of the intersection of Durston Road and Fowler Avenue extended - Green
Teal LLC on behalf of William Lvdens (1-05017)
Included in the Commissioners' packets was a memo forwarding the informal application, as
submitted by Green Teal LLC on behalf of William Lydens under Application No. 1-05017, for annexation,
zone map amendment and subdivision of 13 acres located at the southeast corner of the intersection of
Durston Road and Fowler Avenue extended.
Associate Planner Jami Morris gave an overview of the application, highlighting the issues which
have been identified in the staff analysis. She noted that the Farmers Canal is to be located in the center
median of Fowler Avenue. Under this informal application, zoning is to include "R-3" adjacent to Durston
Road, with the remainder being zoned "R-1". The Planner noted that staff felt the proposed "R-3" zoning
could be viewed as spot zoning; however, the Planning Board supported the proposal as submitted.
Mr. Greg Allen, consulting engineer representing the applicant, stated that they are in the process
of revising the design based on walking the property and determining the pond is large and rather deep.
He noted their biggest question is how to develop the property at the intersection of Durston Road and
Fowler Avenue, stating their initial thought was development under an "R-3" zoning designation with interior
courtyard parking. He then noted that most of the development along Durston Road has side or rear yards
adjacent to the road, with only older construction actually facing the street.
Responding to Commissioner Hietala, Mr. Allen indicated that Cascade Street is the only easUwest
street proposed since that is the only one that extends through Valley Unit Subdivision to Ferguson Avenue.
Commissioner Kirchhoff expressed support for single-family residential development on this
property, but suggested that could be accomplished under an "R-3" zoning designation with restrictive
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covenants. He then stated his agreement with the staff recommendations and suggested the applicant find
a way to make Durston Road an asset to the project.
Commissioner Youngman recognized staff's concern about spot zoning, but suggested that "R-2"
zoning might be a possibility.
Responding to Associate Planner Morris, Commissioner Kirchhoff suggested that staff work with the
applicant to identify the most appropriate zoning for the site as well as the best type of development.
Mayor Cetraro thanked the applicant for the opportunity to review this proposal.
Commission direction/inDut on draft budget recommendations for Fiscal Year 2005-2006
Included in the Commissioners' packets were memos forwarding information on the City Manager's
recommendations for the Fiscal Year 2004-2005 budget along with a request to prioritize the remaining
items to be included in that recommendation, information on a proposed increase in the compost disposal
rate, information on proposed increases in the solid waste collection rates, information on the proposed
increase in tree maintenance district assessments, and information on the proposed 4-percent increase in
street maintenance district assessments.
Director of Finance Anna Rosenberry noted the City Manager's budget recommendations will be
included in next week's packet and asked for Commissioner feedback on the list of items presented in May
so that the document can be finalized. She highlighted some of the changes that have been made in the
list, including the addition of monies for affordable housing and removal of cemetery software. She also
asked for feedback on the parks grant program, based on the library funding discussion.
City Manager Chris Kukulski recommended that the parks grant program, facilities reserve,
additional police officer and increase in the public defender costs be funded. He then drew attention to the
fact that noise mitigation at the Bogert Pavilion has not been included in his budget recommendations.
Mayor Cetraro and Commissioner Kirchhoff expressed concurrence with the City Manager's list of
additional items to be included in the budget.
Commissioner Krauss stated he would prefer to see affordable housing funded instead of a capital
reserve. Also, he still supports the funding for doggie stations.
Director of Public Service Debbie Arkell noted a conversation with Gary Vodenhal revealed the
Gallatin Valley Land Trust has installed the doggie stations; the $5,000 in the City's budget is to purchase
bags for those stations. -
Commissioner Youngman noted the City has previously made a multi-year commitment to funding
affordable housing that is now not being met and, as a result, she supports funding at least a portion of that
commitment. She suggested the alternative might be to seek a grant.
Responding to the City Manager, Commissioner Krauss suggested that one mill be set aside for
affordable housing.
Commissioner Hietala suggested the City could address some of the affordable housing issue
through an incentive to builders under which 5 percent of the land would be given back to the builder for
affordable units from the open space and watercourse setback requirements.
City Manager Kukulski noted that he has had several comments about properties in the core of the
community that could be beneficial for City facilities, but no funding is available.
Commissioner Youngman voiced her interest in providing monies for the Community Mediation
Center. She noted that the City's agreement with them has helped that program budgetarily and suggested
that, if that agreement is to no longer be funded, the City continue to contract for their services whenever
possible.
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Director of Finance Rosenberry noted that a tipping fee is being proposed for compost disposal for
City customers. She stated this fee is currently in place for non-City customers and would be expanded to
include everyone; a majority of the Commissioners concurred.
The Director of Finance turned her attention to solid waste collection rates, forwarding a
recommendation for a 27-percent increase in those fees. She noted that the disposal fees have helped
defray the costs of the recycling program; and those revenues will be available for only a portion of the fiscal
year. She stated this increase will result in a $3.05 monthly increase for a resident with a 65-gallon tote.
Solid Waste Superintendent Mark Kottwitz responded to several questions from the Commissioners,
noting that recycling saves space in the landfill, at an estimated diversion rate of $50 per ton.
Commissioner Hietala suggested that the use of the landfill be restricted to City residents, which
would extend its life, and force all others to use the Logan landfill.
The Director of Finance indicated that staff will provide an analysis on the cost of hauling versus
operating a transfer station once the bids are opened.
Director of Public Service Debbie Arkell cautioned that, while the average residential customer will
see a $3.05 monthly increase, commercial customers will see a $200 to $2,000 annual increase, and the
result may be some of those customers switching to the private hauler.
Commissioner Youngman suggested that the rates be recalculated based on the use of the roll-offs.
She noted there has been a change in the economic climate since the citizen plan recommended that roll-
offs not be used for garbage collection, and it may now be time to use them to help lower commercial rates.
A majority of the Commissioners expressed support for proceeding with the proposed 27 -percent
increase in solid waste collection fees.
Director of Finance Anna Rosenberry turned her attention to the proposed 4-percent increase in
street maintenance district assessments, which would help fund two new street workers to assist in
maintaining the 70-percent increase in street miles since 1990.
Commissioner Krauss stated he cannot support an increase in street maintenance assessments this
year; a majority of the Commissioners concurred.
The Director of Finance concluded by recommending a 3-percent increase in the tree maintenance
district assessments; a majority of the Commissioners agreed with that proposed increase.
Discussion. FYI Items
The following "For Your Information" items were forwarded to the Commission.
(1 ) Copy of a letter from Sandra Archer to the board of the Story Mill Fire District announcing
her resignation from that board.
(2) Letter from Dab Dabney, Farmhouse Partners, voicing concern about potential elimination
of the priority review for affordable housing projects.
(3) Updated list of planning projects to be considered at upcoming Commission meetings, dated
June 9, 2005.
(4) Agenda for the School District No.7 Board of Trustees meeting to be held at 7:00 p.m. on
Monday, June 13, at the Bozeman High School Cafeteria.
(5) Agendas for the County Commission meetings to be held at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 14,
and 1 :30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 15, at the Courthouse.
(6) Agenda for the Development Review Committee meeting to be held at 10:00 a.m. on
Wednesday, June 15, in the Commission Room.
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(7) Agenda for the special joint Planning Board/Zoning Commission meeting to be held at 7:00
p.m. on Tuesday, June 14, in the Conference Room of the Professional Building.
(8) Director of Finance Anna Rosenberry reported that she met with the health insurance
committee and, based on the information received to date, it appears the City can maintain the same
insurance coverage for its employees without any increase in mill levy this year. She noted the consultant
has negotiated a significant reduction in administrative fees that has helped to offset the increase in medical
costs.
(9) Assistant City Manager Ron Brey stated he is working with a group interested in installing
a climbing boulder in Langohr Park, where the park master plan shows playground equipment; and that
installation is being fully funded by private donations.
(10) Director of Public Service Debbie Arkell reported that she met with Gary Vodenhal about the
trail around the cemetery perimeter. He has received a grant to fund the trail project and proposes to use
a portion of those monies to move the hedge, install a fence and install a sprinkler system as provided in
the 20-year plan for the cemetery. She noted that portion of the cemetery that does not have a fence or a
hedge won't be used as cemetery for 75 years.
Adiournment - 12:18 a.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 Youngma an Mayor Cetraro; those voting No, none.
ATTEST:
~./h~
R IN L. SULLIVAN
Clerk of the Commission
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