HomeMy WebLinkAbout1997-05-12 Minutes, City Commission
MINUTES OF THE WORK SESSION/AGENDA MEETING/SPECIAL MEETING
OF THE CITY COMMISSION
BOZEMAN, MONTANA
May 12, 1997
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. The Commission of the City of Bozeman met in work session, agenda meeting and
special meeting in the Commission Room, Municipal Building, May 12, 1997, at 3:00 p.m.
Present were Mayor Stueck, Commissioner Rudberg, Commissioner Stiff, Commissioner Frost,
Commissioner Youngman, Acting City Manager Brey, City Attorney Luwe and Clerk of the
Commission Sullivan.
The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence.
Agenda Meeting - for regular meetina and Dublic hearings to be held on Mav 19. 1997
Since this is an agenda meeting, only those issues requiring staff action are contained
in the minutes.
Acting City Manager Brey briefly reviewed the background information which was
. included in the Commissioners' packets.
(5) Assistant Planner Chris Saunders gave a brief overview of this application,
noting it includes modifications to Phase I as well as preliminary plat approval for Phase II of
North Meadows Subdivision. He stated the modification to Phase I will allow for relocation of
the dedicated parkland and realignment of lots, stressing that it will not change the number of
lots within the phase or the amount of parkland dedicated.
Responding to Commissioner Stiff, the Planner stated that approximately 44,291
square feet of parkland is being dedicated, and 53,000 square feet is required for the entire
subdivision. The applicant has proposed to pay cash-in-lieu for improvements to the parkland
rather than dedicating the entire square footage required.
. (6) Planning Director Epple provided a brief overview of this request, stating that
he, as zoning administrator, has been unable to make the needed determination. He stated that
if the distribution center is determined to be the same as light manufacturing, completely
indoors, it will be a permitted use in the Business Park district and if it is determined to be the
same as a warehouse, it must go through the planned unit development review process.
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Responding to questions from Mayor Stueck, he indicated the building for the
distribution center will probably be a slightly higher profile than the buildings currently located
in the Burrup Annexation, but should be of generally the same character. He then indicated
that he will provide additional information on the criteria for classification of uses in next
week's packet to assist the Commissioners in their decision-making process.
. (7) Commissioner Rudberg stated that on April 7, the Commission voted to not
approve the request for funding as forwarded by Montana Shakespeare in the Parks. She then
questioned why essentially the same request is being submitted again and asked that it be
removed from the agenda. She indicated that she has no problem with the portion of the
agenda item pertaining to the proclamation and feels that can be placed on the consent agenda
at the appropriate time.
Following discussion, it was determined that the request for funding will be removed
from the agenda and that the proclamation will be placed on a future consent agenda.
The Commissioners further concurred that all requests for funding should be held until
after the budget has been prepared and reviewed.
. (1 Oa I City Attorney Luwe asked that a pprava I of the Sweet Pea Pa rade include
requiring compliance with any ordinance provisions. He noted that staff should be prepared
to submit a proposed ordinance governing parades for Commission consideration in early June,
and it may possibly be in effect prior to this parade.
(10) Commissioner Frost noted this agenda includes acknowledging receipt of
three applications for annexation of over 700 acres, which he views as anything but routine.
(14) Assistant Planner Jody Olsen provided a brief overview of the requested
variances for a large garage in an existing neighborhood.
Responding to Commissioner Rudberg, the Assistant Planner stated the property has
been posted, and no comments have been submitted by the neighbors.
. Work Session. (A) Presentation re Northern Pacific/Story Mill Historic District: (B) Prooosal for
amendment of guidelines for CDBG Economic Develooment RevolvinQ Loan Fund. Gallatin
Develooment Corooration: (C) Prooosal from Gallatin Vallev Food Bank for construction of
greenhouse at Westlake Park
(A) Presentation re Northern Pacific/Story Mill Historic District
Acting City Manager Brey stated that, due to scheduling conflicts, this item is to be
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placed on a future agenda.
(B) Proposal for amendment of guidelines for CDBG Economic Development
Revolving loan Fund ~ Gallatin Development Corporation
Ms. Dixie Swenson, Executive Director of the Gallatin Development Corporation
(GDC), reviewed proposed revisions to the guidelines for the CDBG Economic Development
. Revolving Loan Fund program, as forwarded in her memo of May 6. She noted that some of
the revisions result from changes in guidelines at the national and state levels. Under those
changes, the monies generated from projects funded from 1992 or earlier CDBG funds and
subsequent repayment of those funds may be expended in a more flexible manner than in the
past. She noted that previously 51 percent of the jobs must require no more than a high school
education, and this requirement is contradictory to encouraging high tech businesses to the
community. She indicated that if the City's guidelines are changed, it may be possible to take
advantage of the additional flexibility and attract such businesses.
Ms. Swenson reviewed all of the changes proposed in the draft guidelines, noting that
the basic changes are identified with underlines and strike-outs while policy issues have been
shaded. She indicated that these proposed revisions result from discussions with the Montana
. Department of Commerce as well as review of guidelines from other communities around the
state. She stated that, while she has proposed no change in the membership of the CDBG
Economic Development Loan Review Committee, she has proposed language under which any
organization administering the fund will waive its representation on the committee. She noted
that, in practice, this has occurred as no GDC representative has served on the committee since
her office assumed administration of the program. She stated that, at the present time, the
guidelines allow for a maximum of 7 percent of the fund balance to be used for administrative
costs; under national guidelines, administrative costs may not exceed 18 percent.
Ms. Swenson stated that under Section III, there are some policy issues which must
be addressed. She noted that under current guidelines, the cost per job must not exceed
. $20,000, and some communities have set that limit as high as $35,000.
Ms. Swenson noted that when the guidelines were initially established. it was
anticipated the applications would be considered twice each year and they would compete for
available funds. She stated that, in reality, applications are processed throughout the year and
are weighed on their own merits. Several sections of the guidelines have been revised to
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reflect this shift in the process. Ms. Swenson indicated that the point system has been
eliminated because, with objective criteria, the applications can still be adequately and
appropriately reviewed. She also noted that changes have been made to provide a little
flexibility in the amount of the loans approved, so that the committee could possibly
recommend loans slightly in excess of $100,000 on projects they feel warrant it.
. Commissioner Youngman stated that, while she recognizes the need to change the
guidelines and add some flexibility, she feels it is important to not eliminate all references to
low and moderate-income persons or jobs. She suggested that Section III should still include
a statement that priority would also be given to low and moderate income jobs.
Ms. Swenson noted that it may be necessary to find a term other than "low and
moderate income" because of the legal constraints they might impose. She indicated that she
is sensitive to the concerns raised, but feels caution must be exercised in writing these
guidelines.
Commissioner Youngman stated that she supports the concept of encouraging
"quality jobs", but she feels the term should be defined.
. Ms. Swenson stated she will try to do so. She noted that "quality jobs" is not just
limited to wage, but could include issues such as health benefits and essentially "doing the
right thing by the employees". She then indicated that this additional language could be added
in a way that would not jeopardize the low and moderate income job opportunities while
providing the desired flexibility.
Responding to questions from Commissioner Frost Ms. Swenson stated that, at the
present time, the 7 percent administrative fee does cover the costs associated with this
program. She then indicated that she feels the guidelines, as proposed, give the Loan Review
Committee the flexibility desired while providing adequate guidelines to ensure the desired
results. She noted the business plan that is required in conjunction with an application should
provide the information needed for evaluating the application and determining it if is sound.
. Responding to Commissioner Frost, Acting City Manager Brey stated the Commission
should make its decisions on the policy questions raised, possibly as the result of another work
session on May 27. Subsequent to that, staff will prepare a resolution for Commission
consideration and possible adoption.
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(C) Proposal from Gallatin Valley Food Bank for construction of greenhouse
at Westlake Park
Acting City Manager Brey stated that, included in the Commissioners' packets, was
a memo from the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board, dated May 7, forwarding their
endorsement of the proposal.
. Ms. Renee Harris, Gallatin Valley Food Bank, stated that, subsequent to the
presentation to the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board, the Food Bank received verification
from Montana State University that it can use the greenhouses on campus for this gardening
project, so they do not need to construct a greenhouse at Westlake Park. She stated, instead,
the Food Bank is now requesting that the garden area at Westlake Park be expanded to two
acres. She noted that plants can be started at the MSU Plant Growth Center in late January
or early February, then transplanted to the garden plot at the appropriate time. Ms. Harris
stated the Food Bank is attempting to create a regional food growing facility, of which the
garden is one component.
Responding to Mayor Stueck, Ms. Harris stated that Westlake Park contains 5.9
acres, of which 1.5 acres has been set aside for the BMX track. She said the Food Bank is
. now working with Park Superintendent McNeil to update the estimated costs of installing the
gardens, as well as restroom facilities, a picnic shelter, and possibly a storage shed. She stated
the BMX Club has indicated an interest in participating in the restroom facilities.
Responding to Commissioner Stiff, Ms. Harris stated that 50 percent of those using
the Food Bank are classified as working poor with full-time jobs. She indicated that, depending
on their ability to pay, some people receive free services while others are required to pay a
percentage. She stated that under this proposed garden program, similar guidelines would be
used to determine how much the clients may need to pay for the produce from the gardens.
The Commission thanked Ms. Harris for her presentation.
. Signing of Notice of Soecial Meeting
Each of the Commissioners, in turn, signed the Notice of Special Meeting.
Decision - request forwarded bv Nadia Beiser, Planned DeveloDment, Inc., re extension of City
sewer service to Fort Ellis Leisure Community
Ms. Nadia Beiser distributed to the Commission copies of fifteen proposed conditions
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for the Commission to consider in approving her request to extend City sewer service to the
Fort Ellis Leisure Community. She reminded the Commission that under Planned Development,
Inc.'s, proposal, one segment of the City's facilities plan is to be installed at the developer's
expense, including all needed upgrades to the existing lift station and any other improvements
needed in the existing system. She further reminded the Commission that
Planned
. Development, Inc., proposes to pay 100 percent of the wastewater impact fee, instead of the
35 percent currently being assessed by the City, and to pay the monthly user fees after
connection to the system.
Ms. Beiser noted that when she previously discussed this issue with the Commission,
she was asked to come back with a response on paying the wastewater impact fee up front,
to maximize the City's ability to earn interest on those monies, particularly the 65 percent
earmarked for plant capacity expansion. She reminded the Commission of the proposal she had
previously forwarded, which includes extension of the sewer main from its current terminus in
the Burrup Annexation to the Fort Ellis Leisure Community, at the developer's expense. This
extension will avoid the need for any type of on~site septic disposal system and will result in
. more affordable housing units and possibly more open space. She noted that this extension
will cost over $750,000, but the result will benefit both the City and the developer.
Ms. Beiser reminded the Commission that the rezoning of this property and the
planned unit development were previously approved. She noted that the parcel lies in the
growth area and will contain the high-density development that is consistent with the master
plan. She stated that under this proposal, the public infrastructure is to be installed at private
expense, to an area designated for high-density development. She further noted that this
proposed extension will actually improve the operation and efficiency of the under-used lift
station in the Burrup sewer main by increasing the flows and alleviating some of the infiltration
and inflow problems currently existing.
Ms. Beiser noted that if on-site septic disposal systems are required, a large portion
. of the land area will be required for that purpose, thus reducing the amount of open space and
possibly the number of lots and dwelling units that can be constructed on the subject property.
She reminded the Commission that, under the planned unit development which has been
approved for this site, a total of 188 dwelling units may be constructed. She stressed that if
the request to extend City sewer service to the site is approved, that number can be attained.
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If on-site systems are required, the number of dwelling units will probably be decreased, thus
increasing the cost per unit. She further noted that the environmental concerns that have been
previously expressed can be avoided by connecting to the City's sewer system, including the
protection of the groundwater in the valley.
Ms. Nadia Beiser noted that the wastewater impact fee is typically paid when the
. building permit is drawn. She stated that, because of the capital costs of extending the sewer
main, they cannot afford to also pay the wastewater impact fee immediately. She stated,
however, that the developers would be willing to pay the 65-percent portion of the wastewater
impact fee as the final plat for each phase of the subdivision is approved. She stated that, until
the final plat has been developed, the number of lots and dwelling units per phase will not be
known, so the amount of the impact fee cannot be determined. Also, this will allow for a
minimum amount of time between the payment of the fee and receipt of the revenues
generated by sale of the lots. She stated that the 35-percent portion of the impact fee will be
assessed upon drawing of the building permit, per existing code, since construction of a
dwelling unit is what creates impact on the sewer system. She stressed that the 65-percent
. portion of the impact fees is to be placed in a fund earmarked for future expansion of the
wastewater treatment plant capacity when it is needed, which has been projected for 2002 or
2003. She stated that the monthly use fees will also be paid and, if the City requires it, she
noted the development will also pay a monthly surcharge to cover the costs of maintaining the
extension.
Ms. Beiser stated that Commissioner Stiff's request has made the developers
"sharpen their pencils", and forward a proposal that is more beneficial to the City. She then
asked that the Commission approve this proposal, subject to the fifteen conditions which she
read into the record. She suggested that approval of this proposal, while it may set precedent,
will set a high precedent because it will require any future developer seeking the extension of
City sewer service outside city limits to bear the entire cost of the extension plus pay the entire
. wastewater impact fee and any other requirements that may be placed on this project. She
concluded by reminding the Commission the benefits of approving this request include
affordable housing units, open space and protection of the environment.
Responding to Commissioner Youngman, Ms. Beiser characterized the watertable on
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the subject site as being typical for Bozeman, but she would not characterize it as being a high
watertable.
Responding to Commissioner Stiff, Ms. Beiser stated that, under no circumstances,
will more than 188 dwelling units be constructed, since that is the limit imposed for the
planned unit development. She indicated that if this request is not approved and on-site
. systems are required, the number of units could be decreased because of the amount of land
needed to accommodate those systems.
Further responding to Commissioner Stiff, Ms. Beiser recognized that there may not
be any new connections to the sewer main during the term of the payback agreement. She
stated that no paybacks have been included in their financial calculations, since no revenues
are expected from this source. She noted, however, that if there are any connections, it would
be nice to receive some compensation. She then estimated that the final plat will be ready in
four to five months. She stressed that development will be undertaken in phases, as quickly
as the market will allow.
Responding to Commissioner Frost, Ms. Beiser stated that duplexes and single-family
. units will be constructed in this development. She noted that the combination and location of
units will determine the total number of dwelling units in this project.
Responding to Mayor Stueck, Ms. Beiser stated that, in addition to paying 100
percent of the City's wastewater impact fee, the developer also agrees to pay the County road
and fire impact fees as assessed.
Mr. Neil Ganser, 32404 East Frontage Road, stated he is currently paying principal
and interest on the special improvement district that ten property owners approved in 1984 for
extension of the sewer main through the Burrup Annexation. He stressed that this trunk line
has been installed with private monies, through the SID process, and asked if a portion of the
impact fees could be used to reimburse the landowners who paid for that extension.
Mr. Ganser noted that the Burrup Annexation was annexed to the City in 1979 and,
. at that time, the City could not provide services to the site. He said that, after five years, the
property owners felt it was beneficial to have those services extended through the SID process.
He concluded by asking again if reimbursement is possible.
Responding to questions from Mr. Ganser, Director of Public Service Phill Forbes
stated that upgrading of the lift station in the Burrup Annexation is included in the facilities plan
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because the line is projected to be extended. He indicated that there are no capacity problems
at the present time. He then stated that a number of bottlenecks have been identified between
the lift station and the Wastewater Treatment Plant, so upgrade of the lift station is not the
only issue to be addressed.
The Director of Public Service then noted that the applicant has just handed out a
. fairly lengthy, substantive package of information which staff has not yet seen. He asked that
staff be given an opportunity to review it, noting there are some technical issues that need
clarification or careful review since they seem to be new in the presentation. He recognized
that staff's review is to be a conceptual one, however, he indicated there are some issues that
should be considered in the review that might not typically be considered as conceptual.
Commissioner Youngman asked if the taxpayers will still be subsidizing this request
if the applicant pays 100 percent of the impact fee and a monthly surcharge for maintenance,
as offered in today's presentation.
Director of Public Service Forbes responded that the study which generated the
wastewater impact fees does not include any expansion of the Wastewater Treatment Plant,
. since such an expansion is not anticipated in the 20-year facilities plan update that is just being
completed. He stated that even if the properties outside the city limits are connected to the
system and pay 100 percent of the impact fee, with 65 percent of those monies being
earmarked for future expansion of the plant, then the entire community is impacted because
of the discounted fee.
Responding to Mayor Stueck, the Director of Public Service stated that when the
Wastewater Treatment Plant was expanded in 1982, 85 percent of the costs were paid through
a federal grant, with the City paying the remainder. He stated that federal program has now
ended, so the City will be faced with all of the costs of the next expansion.
Commissioner Stiff noted that the 65 percent of the impact fee for plant expansion
will generate in excess of $300,000 which, if placed in an interest bearing account for a few
. years, should result in a significant contribution toward the expansion.
Responding to Mayor Stueck, Acting City Manager Brey stated that, without having
a copy of the information forwarded by Ms. Beiser distributed to the Commission, it is difficult
to determine how much time it will take for staff to review it. He indicated, however, that an
update can be provided at next week's meeting.
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Commissioner Frost stated that approval of this request might also result in deviating
from the existing annexation policy, and asked that City Attorney Luwe be given an opportunity
to review it to determine how that might impact the City's legal position when others outside
city limits ask to be connected to this new line.
Commissioner Rudberg stated she also feels that answers to the questions raised by
. Mr. Ganser are needed.
Ms. Nadia Beiser reiterated that under this proposal, the developers will pay 100
percent of the impact fees, not just the 35 percent currently being assessed, plus all the costs
of installing the sewer main extension and upgrading the existing system to accommodate the
additional flows. She stressed that the fifteen conditions she has suggested should address
the issues which have been raised by staff and the Commission. She further noted that under
Condition No. 15, a legally binding agreement is to be negotiated between the developer and
City staff, with final approval granted by the Commission. She encouraged the Commissioners
to approve her request at this time, with the assurance that under this condition, staff will have
an opportunity to ensure that any concerns identified during detailed review of the proposal are
. adequately addressed. She noted that the Commission is responsible for deciding policy, with
staff implementing that policy, and she feels this requested action is appropriate.
Acting City Manager Brey requested that staff be given an opportunity to review this
proposal, for at least one week, before the Commission takes action, particularly since staff has
not yet seen the proposal distributed at the beginning of this presentation. He recognized that,
if the Commission wishes, it could give its approval on a conceptual basis, with the proposal
to be forwarded to staff for its review and responses to the questions raised within the next
few weeks.
Commissioner Frost stated he wants staff to review the proposal before making a
decision, particularly since approval of the proposal could result in a need to change current
policy.
. Commissioner Rudberg stated she feels the Commission should make a decision rather
than referring it back to staff one more time.
Mayor Stueck stated he feels the legal questions should be addressed before a
decision is made. He recognized that, rather than wasting staff's time on reviewing something
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the Commission may turn down, it might be appropriate for the Commissioners to give some
input on whether they feel they could support this proposal.
Commissioner Stiff stated he feels the proposal, as submitted, can be conceptually
approved at this time. He forwarded his interest in receiving staff input, but he feels that can
be done in conjunction with the next step in the process.
. It was moved by Commissioner Frost, seconded by Commissioner Youngman, that
the Commission direct staff to review this proposal, based on the information distributed today,
and bring back responses to the questions asked prior to a decision being made. The motion
carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Commissioner Frost,
Commissioner Youngman and Mayor Stueck; those voting No being Commissioner Rudberg and
Commissioner Stiff.
Following a brief discussion, Acting City Manager Brey stated that, if the Commission
wishes to take action at this time, it would be appropriate to conceptually approve the request
and direct staff to prepare the recommended conditions for approval.
Mayor Stueck yielded the gavel to Commissioner Youngman for purposes of making
. a motion.
It was moved by Commissioner Stueck, seconded by Commissioner Rudberg, that the
Commission reconsider its previous motion. The motion carried by the following Aye and No
vote: those voting Aye being Commissioner Stueck, Commissioner Rudberg, Commissioner
Stiff and Commissioner Youngman; those voting No being Commissioner Frost.
Commissioner Youngman returned the gavel to Mayor Stueck.
Responding to Mayor Stueck, City Attorney Luwe cautioned that, unless
the
Commission gives staff some latitude in negotiating with the developer, the provisions of
Condition Nos. 1 through 14, as proposed, must be contained in the agreement developed
under Condition No. 15. He then indicated that the typical payback agreement is ten years,
rather than the twenty years proposed, and he feels staff should be given some latitude.
. Commissioner Youngman stated her discomfort with approving this request is that
it is contrary to existing City policy, and she feels that can be dangerous for the entire
community. She recognized that the planned extension of City services can put the City in a
proactive mode and can be used as a legitimate growth management tool, but she feels those
policy decisions should be made as an item separate from addressing a specific request. She
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further noted that the issue of whether others adjacent to the main extension but outside city
limits will be allowed to connect to the system should be addressed.
Commissioner Youngman stated that, while she fully supports steps to avoid
groundwater degradation, she feels that the City should not bear responsibility for the entire
county. She stated that, in this instance, there is no high groundwater about which to be
. concerned. While she recognizes it is preferable to serve development with City sewer service,
she feels the impacts on other properties within the sewer service boundaries, and particularly
those undeveloped areas currently inside city limits, should be carefully considered. She
stressed that, while approval of this request may not be the wrong decision, it is in the wrong
order to do so at this time.
Commissioner Rudberg noted that approval of this request will not set precedent. She
noted, rather, that the City extended water and sewer services to the Covered Wagon Mobile
Home Park twenty-five years ago; and that area still has not been annexed. She stressed that
this subject property will be developed, with or without City sewer service, and she feels it
would be preferable to move the project forward with City service.
. Mayor Stueck stated he agrees with Commissioner Youngman's comment that the
annexation policy must be carefully considered when addressing this request. He stated,
however, that he feels the Commission can make a decision on the concept at this time, with
the criteria for considering future requests to be developed as soon as possible. He noted that
in this instance, the sewer main extension is to be 0.8 mile, which is significantly less than
would be required to serve the Rae Water and Sewer District, which is over 2 miles from the
closest sewer main.
Commissioner Stiff reiterated his desire to move forward with this process, stating
he feels that connecting the subject property to City sewer service will help to promote more
affordable units while ensuring that the potential for groundwater degradation is avoided.
Commissioner Frost expressed concern that acting on this request now is reacting on
. a case-by-case basis, rather than having a policy in place on which to rely. He recognized that
this proposal appears to be beneficial to the City because of the significant monetary
contribution being made by the developer; however, he questioned what the long-term costs
will be. He noted that the eastward extension of the city has been slow and questioned
whether the City is prepared to accommodate growth in that direction as well as to the west
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and the north. He also noted that the impacts on capacity of the plant must be considered.
He expressed concern that in the past, subdivisions have been allowed to develop without the
appropriate infrastructure being in place; and the Commission is now trying to address those
problems, citing West Babcock Street as an example. He noted that the policy should address
all infrastructure needs, not just sewer. He said a question about payback for the existing
. sewer main in Burrup Annexation has been raised but not yet answered. He questioned who
will be responsible for upgrading the existing lines between this development and the treatment
plant. He also questioned how approval of this request will impact the existing annexation
policy, which he considers probably the biggest single issue. He then stated he does not
believe it is prudent to direct staff to bring back conditions for approval of this request; rather,
staff should be asked to evaluate the request and come back with a recommendation for
action.
It was moved by Commissioner Rudberg, seconded by Commissioner Stiff, that the
Commission conceptually approve the request submitted by Planned Development, Inc., for
extension of the City sewer service to the Fort Ellis Leisure Community, and direct staff to
. review the fifteen conditions proposed by the applicant at this meeting and bring back a list of
recommended conditions for approval. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote:
those voting Aye being Commissioner Rudberg, Commissioner Stiff and Mayor Stueck; those
voting No being Commissioner Frost and Commissioner Youngman.
Decision M imolementation of Phase I of automated garbage collection system as Drooosed bv
staff
Commissioner Frost stated that, based on the comments received during and
subsequent to the public hearing, he is concerned that the only options available to reduce the
cost of garbage collection are once a week or once a month pick up of the 35-gallon
containers. He encouraged more flexibility in the program, suggesting that a twice monthly
. option be added for those who don't have enough garbage to warrant weekly collection but
who have too much for the monthly pick up cycle.
Commissioner Frost stated that, since the small containers are now available, he
supports conversion to the automated garbage collection. He noted that the volume-based
system implemented several years ago can be retained with this system, as proposed by
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Street/Sanitation Superintendent Roger Sicz, expressing his appreciation for staff's work on this
proposal.
Street/Sanitation Superintendent Roger Sicz encouraged the Commission to not make
the program too complicated, stating he feels the proposal forwarded by staff is a good one.
He stated that, once the program is implemented, residents will quickly learn which size
. container and frequency of pick up is the most desirable for them,
Commissioner Rudberg stated she feels the City is losing money under the existing
tag system because not everyone being served under this system has signed up for it.
Responding to Commissioner Stiff, Street/Sanitation Superintendent Sicz stated that
a universal arm on the automated truck will pick up the 35-gallon, 50-gallon and gO-gallon
containers. He noted, however, that adding 300-gallon containers in the alleys at a later date
could require a different pick up arm.
Responding to Mayor Stueck, the Superintendent stated that 2,000 to 2,500 pick ups
per week will result in an efficient system. He noted that if a large number of customers with
alley pick up at this time decided to convert to curbside pick up with this new automated
. system, rather than continuing the tag system in the alley, the City may have difficulty in
serving all of them in the first phase; however, he does not anticipate such a mass conversion
will occur.
Responding to Commissioner Frost, Street/Sanitation Superintendent Sicz stated there
is an ordinance requiring that garbage containers be set out at the curb only on collection days.
He noted that failure to set the container back by the house on other days is an enforcement
issue, which falls under the purview of Code Enforcement Officer Roy Beall.
Responding to Mayor Stueck, the Superintendent asked that the Commission approve
the automated collection program as proposed, stressing that adding more flexibility as
suggested will only complicate it more, with little benefit to only a limited number of
customers. He stated that adding another category for collection twice a month would be "a
e real problem". He noted that a survey conducted a couple of years ago revealed that the
average household has 2 to 2 % bags of garbage per week, and few people have only one bag
per month. He stated that more people are becoming more involved with recycling now, and
the new Headwaters Recycling Cooperative will make that process even easier.
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Commissioner Youngman stated that, while she would like to see more flexibility in
the program, she will support the automated collection system. She feels that the twice
monthly option would make the service more affordable for some residents who may not need
weekly collection.
It was moved by Commissioner Stiff, seconded by Commissioner Frost, that the
. Commission authorize staff to proceed with implementation of Phase I of the automated
garbage collection system as proposed. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote:
those voting Aye being Commissioner Stiff, Commissioner Frost, Commissioner Youngman,
Commissioner Rudberg and Mayor Stueck; those voting No, none.
Staff presentation of City of Bozeman Emergencv ResDonse Flood Plan
Acting City Manager Brey noted that, included in the Commissioners' packets, was
a copy of the City of Bozeman Emergency Response Flood Plan, Revised May 1997. He then
forwarded a change on Page 6, so the sentence reads: "No one is allowed to enter moving or
standing water, deeper than 12 inches, after dark, except in life safety situations."
. Neighborhood Coordinator/Grantsperson James Goehrung characterized this policy as
the City's attempt to get ahead of the flood waters in the best way possible. He noted that
under this policy, the City's resources are to be targeted toward protection of life and limb,
then protection of public facilities and then to protection of private property. He stated that
this prioritized list will help direct efforts during emergency situations and gives the City a
chance to be responsive in whatever way is possible. He further noted that this plan will assist
the various entities involved in responding to calls for assistance, rather than facing the
potential of individuals being referred to other departments.
The Neighborhood Coordinator/Grantsperson recognized that educational efforts are
still needed, to ensure that those in the community know what resources are available in an
emergency situation. He noted that, with the warm weather and the amount of snow still in
. the mountains, water levels in the waterways through the community are rising.
Responding to Mayor Stueck, Acting City Manager Brey stated that if a primary
contact person for one of the public facilities is not available, an alternative will be identified.
He stressed that, during critical situations, those contacts will be self-adjusting, depending on
who is available.
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The Acting City Manager stressed that this document is not all inclusive. He
characterized it, instead, as providing a framework and tools with which City staff can work
in an emergency situation. He noted that staff may receive requests for assistance that cannot
be approved, and this plan will provide the basis on which those requests may be denied. He
also noted that this plan is designed to ensure that those involved in the situation can be as
. informative and as responsive as possible.
Commissioner Rudberg stated the plan has been well prepared and thanked staff for
their efforts.
It was moved by Commissioner Frost seconded by Commissioner Youngman, that
the Commission adopt the City of Bozeman Emergency Response Flood Plan, Revised May
1997, with the revision on Page 6 to change the sentence to read "No one is allowed to enter
moving or standing water, deeper than 12 inches, after dark, except in life safety situations".
The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Commissioner
Frost, Commissioner Youngman, Commissioner Rudberg, Commissioner Stiff and Mayor
Stueck; those voting No, none.
. Authorize Clerk of the Commission Sullivan to attend IIMC Conference in Buffalo, New York -
May 16-23. 1997; appoint Deputy Clerk Gill Erlandson as Actina Clerk of the Commission
Included in the Commissioners' packets was a memo from Clerk of the Commission
Sullivan, dated May 8, requesting authorization to attend the IIMC Conference, to be held in
Buffalo, New York, next week.
It was moved by Commissioner Youngman, seconded by Commissioner Rudberg, that
the Commission authorize Clerk of the Commission Sullivan to attend the International Institute
of Municipal Clerks annual conference in Buffalo, New York, on May 16 through 23, 1997, and
appoint Deputy Clerk of the Commission Gill Erlandson as Acting Clerk of the Commission. The
motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Commissioner
. Youngman, Commissioner Rudberg, Commissioner Stiff, Commissioner Frost and Mayor
Stueck; those voting No, none.
Authorize use of annual leave on May 22-30, 1997 - Actina City Manager Brey; appoint
Administrative Services Director Gamradt as Acting Actina City Manager
It was moved by Commissioner Rudberg, seconded by Commissioner Stiff, that the
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Commission authorize Acting City Manager Brey's use of annual leave for the period May 22
through 30, 1997, and appoint Administrative Services Director Gamradt as Acting Acting City
Manager. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being
Commissioner Rudberg, Commissioner Stiff, Commissioner Frost, Commissioner Youngman and
Mayor Stueck; those voting No, none.
.
Discussion - FYI Items
Acting City Manager Brey presented to the Commission the following "For Your
Information" items.
(1 ) Copy of a letter to the Montana Department of Revenue Liquor Division from
Planning Director Epple regarding the beer and wine license application submitted for MacKenzie
River Pizza.
(2) Letter from Mardella and Bruce Brock, 221 South 5th Avenue, dated May
1, encouraging the Commission to require sidewalks in all neighborhoods, particularly in the
South Rouse area.
. Commissioner Frost stated concurrence with the comments in the letter.
(3) Letter from Rich Pittlsey, dated May 2, commending the City and Derek
Strahn for the walking tour of Historic Bozeman held on April 19.
(4) Invitation to attend the annual membership meeting of the Gallatin County
Council on Aging, to be held at 5:30 p.m. on May 15 in the Community Room of the
Courthouse.
(5) Minutes from the Parking Commission meeting held on April 10.
(6) Copy of the Montana Wetland Conservation Strategy Draft, as forwarded
by the Planning office at the request of Planning Board member Bill Mitchell.
(7) Agenda for the Development Review Committee meeting to be held at 10:00
a.m. on Tuesday, May 13, in the Commission Room.
. (8) Agenda for the Design Review Board meeting to be held at 3:30 p.m. on
Tuesday, May 13, in the Commission Room.
(9) Agenda for the County Commission meeting to be held at 1 :30 p.m. on
Tuesday, May 13, at the Courthouse.
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(10) Acting City Manager Brey reminded the Commission of the VIP reception for
the Special Olympics, which is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday at the Museum of the
Rockies.
(11 ) City Attorney Luwe stated that the MMIA conducted workshops for cities
and counties in the region, and several of the City staff members attended.
. (12) Mayor Stueck submitted the following. (1) Reminded the
Commissioners
that Gallatin Valley Tomorrow activities are scheduled to begin at 2:00 p.m. tomorrow
afternoon. (2) Noted that Special Olympics will be held in Bozeman later this week. (3) Stated
he will attend the City-County Health Board meeting tomorrow morning, followed by the Water
Quality District meeting.
(13) Commissioner Frost stated that he attended the lOB meeting last week, at
which the consultant made a presentation. He stated the consultant has requested an
opportunity to make a presentation to the Commission, and he will work with staff to schedule
that presentation for a work session in early June.
. Adjournment - 5:35 c.m.
There being no further business to come before the Commission at this time, it was
moved by Commissioner Frost, seconded by Commissioner Youngman, that the meeting be
adjourned. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being
Commissioner Frost, Commissioner Youngman, Commissioner Rudberg, Commissioner Stiff and
Mayor Stueck; those voting No, none.
Ud>-1 ~ ~~~A
DON E. STUECK, Mayor
ATTEST:
. VL: ;;/ ~-&-
ROBIN L. SULLIVAN
Clerk of the Commission
05-12-97