HomeMy WebLinkAbout1997-04-14 Minutes, City Commission
MINUTES OF THE WORK SESSION/AGENDA MEETING/SPECIAL MEETING
OF THE CITY COMMISSION
BOZEMAN, MONTANA
April 14, 1997
*****************************
. The Commission of the City of Bozeman met in work session, agenda meeting and
special meeting in the Commission Room, Municipal Building, April 14, 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 Deputy Clerk of
the Commission Erlandson.
The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence.
Aaenda Meetina - for regular meeting and oublic hearings to be held on Aoril 21. 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.
4) The Acting City Manager noted the ordinance to adopt this program
speCified that the Commission consider the impact fees before May 1, 1997. He said City
Attorney Paul Luwe has assured him the Commission's consideration at this time meets the
intentions of the ordinance.
Assistant Planner Chris Saunders said he has often been asked by the public whether
or not the Commission will implement a grace period should they raise fees in the future. He
said it is the City Attorney's opinion that the applicant is locked into whatever the current fee
is on the day the application for a building permit is submitted, unless the application expires.
He said there is a 30-day effective delay for ordinances, so there is somewhat of a grace period
. built into the mechanism.
In response to Commissioner Youngman, the Assistant Planner said he will check into
the County's recently adopted impact fee, to determine whether there is a waiver for affordable
housing, and how it was done.
Responding to Commissioner Frost, the Assistant Planner said he will look into giving
04-14-97
__~_u
- 2 ~
some sort of impact fee credit, either in credit or reduced fees, for development on in fill I and,
as opposed to raw land.
City Attorney Luwe informed Mayor Stueck that projects are controlled by the capital
improvements program. He noted this program needs to be reviewed periodically to reflect the
needs of the community.
. Acting City Manager Brey noted the staff is drafting a policy for the development of
the capital improvements program and how projects will be evaluated for placement in the
program.
In response to Commissioner Stiff, the Assistant Planner said the Durston design
covers the area from North 19th Avenue to Ferguson Road, since that area is growing.
Replying to Commissioner Frost, the Assistant Planner said the County looks at a lot
as a lot for impact fee purposes, and does not differentiate between residential and commercial
uses. He said the City looks at the end use of a lot and is, therefore, able to customize the
fees to a certain extent, making the fees more equitable.
5) Responding to Mayor Stueck, the Director of Public Service said it is his
. understanding that the Fort Ellis sewer extension will include upgrading the lift station. He then
said there will be a lot more necessary than just a mile extension of line and work on the lift
station. The Director of Public Service said modeling and experience indicates that the system
is nearly full in this area. He indicated to the Mayor that he will identify what will be needed
to Ms. Beiser when she meets with the Development Review Committee on Tuesday.
7) Mayor Stueck noted he has estimated the cost of the project at $60,000-
65,000, commenting that it is a nice looking pavilion, though nothing fancy.
In response to the Mayor, City Attorney Luwe said he will detemine if there is a legal
restriction to waiving the fees.
10b) City Attorney Luwe requested that the Commissioners forward to him any
additional changes. He said if it is the Commissioners' intent to bring in the group of people to
. be honored for a face~to~face recognition, he will need to amend the language. Commissioner
Stiff noted the many accomplishments of the High School athletic groups, to which the City
Attorney added those in the academic area, noting that they should all be recognized.
13) and 14) Mayor Stueck noted that both these items have been withdrawn.
15) In response to Mayor Stueck, Associate Planner Jody Olsen said the
04* 14-97
----. .--..---.---- -------..--- .....-...-.... .-..-...-..-- .-. .-.
- 3 -
applicants are not planning to replace the asbestos siding on the house, noting that the project
is in the entryway corridor, not the conservation district.
Responding to Commissioner Stiff, the Associate Planner said there are ten parking
spaces, eight of which are along the alley, one in the garage and one stacked in front of the
garage. Planning Director Andy Epple noted that two of these spaces are allocated to the
. apartment.
Work Session - (A) Review of fund in a levels for Beautification Advisory Board. Band Board and
GalaVan for upcoming fiscal year: (8) Discussion - identifying possible funding sources for fire
pumper truck: (C) Review of proposed water forum agenda
(8) Discussion - identifying possible funding sources for fire pumper truck.
Acting City Manager Ron Brey noted that earlier packet materials outlined different
options for funding the truck, including the Haynes Building proceeds and INTERCAP loans, and
that discussion had been held as to foregoing the purchase at this time. He went on to say
there is a provision in statute that allows the City to put a measure on the ballot, asking the
electorate to approve funding above the 1-105 cap, which is the way the previous fire truck
. was funded. The Acting City Manager said a transfer of funds from the SID Revolving Fund
was also discussed, although this was the source of funding identified for the 9-1-1 project;
and the special projects funds may be another possible funding source.
Administrative Services Director Miral Gamradt stressed that placing a measure on the
ballot for a specific reason must not be confused with simply exceeding the 1-105 cap.
Responding to Commissioner Frost, the Administrative Services Director said that the
Commission had previously asked for a guideline on the City's remaining capacity to bond, and
commented the City should not be seeking a general obligation bond less than $1 million. The
Administrative Services Director noted the way the City had financed the previous fire truck
was to place an issue on the ballot saying the City would levy up to a maximum of eight mills
for a two year period. He said there is no difficulty borrowing through INTERCAP in small
. increments, but cautioned against use of general obligation bonds.
In response to Commissioner Frost, City Attorney Luwe stated ballot issues must be
submitted to the County at least 75 days prior to the election and he recommends planning for
90 days ahead.
Mayor Stueck noted that probably $350,000 is needed for the fire truck and
04-14-97
----------- ..--
- 4 -
necessary equipment.
In response to Commissioner Rudberg, the Administrative Services Director said
$105,000 for the fire truck and equipment was carried over from last year's budget.
Commissioner Frost said it is his feeling that the City may want to go the ballot issue
. route more often, and let the public pay for something they think is good for the City. He
noted his concern that, should the City fall behind on fire equipment, Bozeman will lose its high
rating for insurance and it is, therefore, in the best interests of the public to support the issue.
Responding to Commissioner Rudberg, the Acting City Manager said impact fees
cannot be used for the fire truck. He added there are probably some aspects of the equipment,
dealing with growth needs, which could be funded through impact fees.
In response to Commissioner Rudberg, City Attorney Luwe said the City does not
need to have a special election, which would be more costly.
In response to Commissioner Youngman, Mayor Stueck said a mail ballot would be
expensive, but did not know if it would be more costly than holding an election. He noted he
is seriously thinking of taking the money out of the Special Projects funds, which is actually
. the Valley Unit SID funds. He said the City spent $50,000 for the card catalag system in the
library, because it was in the best interests of the community, and this project can also be seen
as being in the best interests of the community.
Acting City Manager Brey responded to Commissioner Youngman by saying the fund
was set up as a special projects fund and that, while one may have to take formal action to
make any adjustment, he does not believe anything precludes one from doing so.
Mayor Stueck commented he had been concerned that there is only one bid but that,
after talking with Fire Chief Aaron Holst, he is confident the Commission needs to go ahead and
get a truck ordered, and that sources of funding have been identified.
Acting City Manager Brey said he will work with the City Attorney on a memorandum
for next week describing funding options, what will be required to get into the special projects
. fund, and what projects are currently included. He said if more discussion is needed, award
of the bid for the truck can be pulled off the Consent Agenda for discussion.
Responding to Mayor Stueck, the Fire Chief said $101,441 is to be paid upon
completion of the fire truck chassis, with the balance due upon completion and delivery of the
finished apparatus.
04-14-97
- 5 -
No Commissioner had any problem with leaving award of the bid on the Consent
Agenda.
(A) Review of funding levels for Beautification Advisory Board, Band Board and
GalaVan for upcoming fiscal year.
Beautification Advisory Board.
. Derek Strahn, staff liaison for the Beautification Advisory Board, outlined several
completed projects, including the North 7th Avenue beautification; the Sculpture Park; the
dedication of the Sacajawea sculpture in that park; dedication of deer at American Federal
Savings; regular participation in Bozeman Clean-up Day and, most recently, the establishment
of Beautification Week, which was just approved and will be implemented for the first time at
the end of this coming month.
Mr. Strahn said the Board's most successful project accomplished over the past
couple of years is the entryway corridor projects with the ISTEA monies. He said the Board
proposed four projects and received a grant of $187,000 from the Montana Department of
Transportation to finance the projects.
The staff liaison continued with the statement that the Board understands the City
. is in a budget crunch and that it is necessary for everyone to tighten their belts. He said the
Board requests that it be allowed to remain as it is with respect to mission and membership
and, in return, they are willing to have their annual general fund of $1,000 eliminated. He said
the Board members propose to fund-raise on their own for projects they wish to intitiate and
request that the monies currently in their budget be allowed to remain. Mr. Strahn said he feels
this is a good way to get the community involved in their projects, and to find out how strongly
the public feels about their initiatives. He noted the Board has some experience with grant
writing and had some success with the ISTEA proposal, and the members feel they can still
continue to initiate some good projects without the City's allocation.
Mr. Strahn noted some local schools have expressed an interest in taking part in
. Beautification Week. Also, the Board has discussed giving awards to recognize those
businesses and individuals who have helped beautify the City.
Commissioner Rudberg reassured Mr. Strahn that the Commission has no intention
of disbanding the Beautification Advisory Board, neither will they take the monies currently in
their budget.
04-14-97
.-.-...-..-.--. ----.----...
- 6 -
In response to Commissioner Rudberg, the staff liaison said most of the $187,000
grant will be used for Beautification Week, and that this project will be significant for the
community, improving the character of the entryway corridors.
Mr. Strahn introduced Claudia Foster and Chad Groth, members of the Beautification
Advisory Board.
. Mayor Stueck noted his appreciation for the Board's statement, saying he genuinely
agrees that, if there is a real interest by the public in a project, they will take ownership and
contribute. He thanked Derek Strahn for speaking.
Band Board.
Ron Schimpf thanked the Commission for inviting him to speak. He said he is a
businessman who understands budgets, and noted the Band Board's budget is unfortunately
being hit from both ends, as the Musicians' Union of Music is also cutting its budget. He noted
that, in the past, the City has paid for five concerts, while the Musicians' Union covered three
concerts and two parades. He said one parade has been eliminated since the Rodeo is no
longer in Bozeman, but the Sweet Pea Parade is still going.
. Mr. Schimpf said, before it received the Commission's Letter, the Band Board had
planned to request an increase in funding.
He noted the pleasure the band concerts give
people, commenting that a head count at concerts showed in excess of 800 people. Mr.
Schimpf said the concerts give immeasurable benefits to the community, and are a draw to
bringing people to town, with attendant business for merchants. Mr. Schimpf noted that the
funding pays for the director and musicians, plus necessary repairs.
Responding to Mayor Stueck, Mr. SChimpf reported the City's letter concerning
fundraising, sent last year, was discussed both by the Band Board and the Musicians' Union,
of which he is also a member. He said that, should the Board do any sort of fundraising or ask
for donations at the concerts, it will jeopardize the Union funds. He said the Union will pay
only for free performances. Mr. SChimpf said the Union has no problem with a private
. benefactor, or if fundraising is done at times other than a performance, and cited the generosity
of Mr. Gardiner, who revamped the whole bandstand.
Mayor Stueck emphasized that the budget crunch will be an on-going thing, and he
hopes there is some way the Band can help themselves.
In response to Mr. Schimpf's concern that none of those on the Band Board are
04-14-97
- 7 -
familiar with fundraising, Commissioner Rudberg suggested he contact people at Hillcrest
Retirement Home, where he can possibly find a lot of help, and perhaps some funding.
Commissioner Youngman suggested putting an article in the Senior Center newsletter.
She felt one article might garner enough financial support to cover one concert. The
. Commissioner said it rather bothered her that the Board has done nothing since reviewing the
City's letter. Responding to Commissioner Rudberg, she said Hillcrest has bulletin boards and
suggested advertising with tear-off notices; she further noted Mr. Schimpf can get more
information on the newsletter and other senior sources, from Judy Morrill, Director of the
Senior Center.
Commissioners Rudberg and Youngman agreed they will write an article for the Band
Board and find out where to send it.
Commissioner Stiff emphasized the Commission's support of the Band, noting it has
been in existence for fifty years or more and that it has given a lot of people a lot of pleasure.
Mayor Stueck reminded Mr. Schimpf that the Band Board's allocation this year will
be $5,000, and thanked him for attending the meeting.
. GalaVan.
Jeff Rupp, Executive Director of the Human Resource Development Council,
introduced Bill Hayward and Brian Close, members of the GalaVan Advisory Board. He said
GalaVan's letter to the Commission outlines the senior transportation's position. He noted
GalaVan has provided 17,000 rides a year for the past three years, 99% of those to residents
within the city limits. Mr. Rupp said it is a simple program, and the funds are used for salary,
gas and vehicles. He noted they asked the City for a raise in funds last year, which was
granted, and they also sought assistance from Gallatin County and United Way.
Mr. Rupp noted GalaVan had planned to stay at the same funding level as last year,
even though there have already been over 9,800 rides in the first quarter, noting GalaVan
probably faces quite an increase in rides in the future. Mr. Rupp said GalaVan can possibly deal
. with a one year reduction of a couple of thousand dollars; but with the long range cutback, he
requested that the City assist them in contacting United Way for additional assistance.
Bill Hayward, President of the GalaVan Advisory Board, stated he feels it is a
responsibility of the City to handle certain transportation, and that GalaVan is an essential
service which he ranks with police, fire, water and sewer. Mr. Hayward said the Legislature
04-14-97
--- -- - --- ---------------
- 8 -
has handed municipalities the authority to raise revenues through transportation districts, or
through a mill levy of up to one mill, for transportation just for seniors and the disabled, which
is what GalaVan does. He said the Legislature also urges communities to cooperate.
Mr. Hayward said GalaVan gets a substantial amount of money from the County, and
that they have recently acquired another bus and have begun service to Belgrade. He said
. GalaVan is appreciative of the City's support, but feels GalaVan should have more of a priority
since it is part of the City's transportation system. Mr. Hayward said the community supports
GalaVan very well, noting that the Board of Realtors gave them about $3,500 for the down
payment on the most recent bus, while Joe Billion provides heated, free housing for the buses.
Mr. Hayward noted GalaVan's philosopy, which is providing door-to~door service upon
demand, at 24-hours' notice. He said their computer organizes the calls, and that six to eight
calls must be turned down per day because of overload. He also noted six or so calls a day
from people with emergency appointments, which they try to accommodate. Mr. Hayward said
their marginal cost is $2.80 a ride and that, when GalaVan loses $2,000, they have to
disappoint around 700 riders a year, and that the only accommodation they can make for the
. shortfall is to cut the drivers' salaries, gas or vehicle maintenance.
In response to Mayor Stueck, Mr. Hayward commented that, by law, GalaVan cannot
charge a rider, but they can ask for a donation of $1, which averages out to about 50 cents
per rider. Further in response to the Mayor, he said MSU does not subsidize the system and
their riders are also asked to donate.
Responding to Commissioner Rudberg, Mr. Hayward noted one has to have a sense
of community when it picks up disabled riders going to the University, or other groups which
do not contribute to GalaVan. The Commissioner remarked that GalaVan is "everything to
everyone" and that, somewhere along the line, some of the organizations that utilize GalaVan
should step forward and be "players in the game". She then asked whether riders or their
children could be asked to contribute a little more to cover the shortfall.
. Mayor Stueck commented that he will write to MSU, since GalaVan provides a
necessary service for them, to ask that they pay their fair share of the system.
Brian Close prefaced his comments by saying the Board has not yet sat down to
discuss the funding cut, so his comments reflect his own views. He continued by saying that
GalaVan has done a lot on its own to raise funds, including advertising on its buses, soliciting
04-14~97
- 9 -
funds from riders, soliciting
funds from private donations, and attempting
to get
accommodation from State, Federal and County funding.
Concerning the proposed request to ask MSU to help out, Mr. Close said he feels they
can just say no. He said if a disabled student calls GalaVan, they must be given that person
a ride. He urged the City to put the issue of a mill levy for seniors and the disabled to the
. voters, and let them decide if they want to support transportation for these people.
Mr. Close noted that some of GalaVan's vehicles are coming to the end of their
maintenance life cycles, and it takes over a year to get replacement vehicles with federal
funding. He asked the City to consider the valuable work GalaVan does instead of cutting
funding, now and in the future.
Commissioner Rudberg said the City has four mills left with which to run the City,
which she characterized as "living on the edge", and that using a mill for Galavan would leave
only three mills for an emergency. Mr. Close said he thought more in terms of the City giving
GalaVan half or a third of a mill, but that the voters should make the choice.
Mayor Stueck thanked all those who had come before the Commission, stressing the
. Commissioners were dealing with all the Boards equally.
Responding to Commissioner Frost, Administrative Services Director Miral Gamradt
clarified the point that, under the 1-105 statute, there are a whole range of exceptions,
including levies voted on by the public. He said that, when the public votes for a specific mill
levy, it typically goes outside the 1-105 cap.
(C) Review of proposed water forum agenda.
Director of Public Service Phill Forbes noted that most Commissioners are aware of
the Bozeman Watershed Council, which is a group with diverse interests, independent of the
City. He commented that, with the City's commitment to a feasibility study of a dam in the
Sourdough Canyon, this Council felt a water forum would be helpful. He referenced the agenda
for the forum, prepared by the Committee Chairman, Rich Morse, which was included in
. Commissioners' packets. He noted the sub-committee meets on Thursday to finalize the
agenda, and that any necessary amendments can be made then.
The Director of Public Service said he and his staff are in the middle of negotiating
a contract with the consultant selected to do the feasibility study for the dam, noting it appears
there will be two public meetings included in their work, and that this is an independent effort
04-14-97
- -.---.. ...-.-.--
- 10-
to parallel the City's schedule.
The Director asked the Commission what they would like to get out of the forum and
whether they would like to amend the agenda, noting he will need the information in the next
few days.
Responding to Commissioner Rudberg, the Director noted Betty Stroock is a
. hydrogeologist. He said he felt comfortable in agreeing to be a presenter for the forum, noting
he prefers to get the information on this complicated issue out on the table; he recommended
the Commissioners attend the meeting.
Commissioner Youngman expressed her opinion that one of the most valuable things
for the consultant will be to know what the public is concerned about, and what it wants to
know about. The Commissioner referenced conservation, alternative water sources, the dam
and its impact, its cost, and so forth.
Mayor Stueck said he would like to see an economic impact study undertaken on
what happens to businesses when rates are raised, when strict conservation measures are
imposed, and related issues. In response, Commission Youngman said it is her understanding
. Gretchen Rupp is a presenter at the forum, and that she has that type of information from
many different communities.
Responding to Commissioner Stiff, the Director of Public Service said much of the
information from the forum will come out in the course of the consultant's work, although the
consultant's scope of work is a feasibility study for a dam in Sourdough. He noted the City
specifically did not seek a consultant who has expertise in designing a conservation program.
Further responding to the Commissioner's concerns about the forum, the Director reiterated he
feels comfortable that he will be allowed to adequately forward his position. The Director
cautioned that he will not "second guess" the motives of any individual member of the
Bozeman Watershed Council.
Commissioner Frost noted his feeling that it is really important to hear both sides of
. the issue before making a decision.
Responding to Commissioner Stiff's concern about the amount of money spent by the
City on its officials' attendance at, and involvement with, the Bozeman Watershed Council,
Commissioner Youngman referenced the Cooperative Agreement signed concerning Sourdough
Creek, noting that it requires the City to cooperate with other agencies, and that the City's
04-14-97
-.--.-.--.-.....----.-.--...-.. _ _.. _. _ _n _._____ .. - -...---..---.---.- ..-----
- 11 -
involvement with the Council enables the City to work with the Forest Service and the other
groups that have a stake in that drainage. The Commissioner said a great deal of the work
involves communication between agencies, noting that, at this point, the Council has taken no
stand, preferring instead to work with the City.
The Director of Public Service was thanked for his report.
.
UDdate re legislative issues - Actina City Manaaer Brav
Acting City Manager Ron Brey noted that last Friday, the 9-1-1 bill passed out of
Committee, dropping the rate increase from 30 cents to 25 cents.
Discussion - FYI Items
Acting City Manager Brey presented to the Commission the following "For Your
Information" items.
( 11 Letter from Captain Bill Kayser, dated April8, 1997, regarding a modification
in the Parade Request/Pride '97 route.
. (2) letter from Kelly Pohl, Project Coordinator for The Montana Watercourse,
dated April 8, 1997 enclosing volunteer instructions for the "We all live downstream" Storm
Drain Painting Project.
(31 Minutes of the Tree Advisory Board meeting from March 12, 1997.
(41 Minutes of the Parking Commission meeting from March 13, 1997.
(51 Notice of meeting and agenda for the Bozeman Area Transportation
Coordinating Committee, to be held at 10:00 a.m. on April 16, 1997 in the City Commission
Room.
(61 Notice of meeting and agenda for the Board of Adjustment, to be held at
1 :30 p.m. on April 17, 1997 in the City Commission Room.
(71 Agenda for the Development Review Committee meeting, to be held at
. 10:00 a.m. on April 15, 1997 in the City Commission Room.
(81 Agenda for the Bozeman City-County Planning Board meeting, to be held at
7:00 p.m. on April 15, 1997 in the City Commission Room.
(9) Agenda for the Gallatin County Commission meeting, to be held at 10:00
a.m. and 1 :30 p.m. on April 15, 1997 in the Courthouse Community Room.
04~ 14-97
n __ .__._.___
- 12 -
(10) The Acting City Manager submitted his report: (1) announced that, as of
today, Bill Kayser is the Assistant Chief of Police; (2) received a notification of renewal of one
of the COPS grants, that will fund a civilian secretary for the Police Department for one more
year. He noted the City is hunting for a grant to fund police officers as well; (3) noted the City
is on the home stretch as far as budget meetings go, in terms of meeting with the departments;
. (4) received a request from one of the County Commissioners to cancel the Interagency
meeting on Wednesday. Acting City Manager Brey said he will do so unless the Commissioners
have any objection. None was received.
Responding to Commissioner Stiff, the Acting City Manager said the meeting with the
County Commissioners is now scheduled for April 28, at 4:00 p.m.
(11 ) Commissioner Frost noted he has reviewed the responses from applicants
for the City Manager position.
In response to his question, Commissioner Youngman and Mayor Stueck said they will
be attending HRDC graduation on Thursday.
(12) Commissioner Rudberg said: (1) she attended the DRC, ORB and Chamber
. meetings. The Commissioner said there was also the ballet and symphony this weekend; (2)
attended the Victim-Witness program dinner, at which they honored Prevent Child Abuse, and
the Ad Litem programs. The Commissioner noted her preference for the usual lunch, rather
than a dinner, because more people can attend.
(13) Commissioner Stiff: (1) asked, in connection with City Manager applications,
if one applicant will have to withdraw.
Following discussion, City Attorney Luwe, determined that the letter to this round of
applicants did not specify that the application will be withdrawn if the releases are not received
by a specific date; therefore the applicants remain in the pool for consideration.
(2) noted he attended the Senior Center meeting this week. He said he had received
nice comments about Neil Poulsen. He noted the Center is doing a marvellous job in spite of
. the confusion of construction.
(14) David Smith, Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce reported: (1) the
news may report today what is going on with property taxes noting the floor session issue will
probably be done today or tomorrow. He said it is anticipated this pre-conference committee
will probably go with the 1996 appraisal but that there will be a 2% increase. He noted he had
04-14-97
.. . . -.... -
- 13 -
received a call today from the Governor's Assistant on Local Affairs, wanting to know the
average price of a house in Bozeman.
The Executive Director referenced HB350, reporting that the Governor has said he will
veto it unless there is enough funding for two more FTEs. He continued by addressing HB249,
concerning the Today and Tomorrow infrastructure, noting the house had sufficient votes to
. pass it, but it needs 100 votes to be voted on in November, 1998 by the citizens of Montana,
and it will be short of that number.
The Executive Director said the Democrats' answer to the Today and Tomorrow bill
is HB512, noting this bill sounds more appealing than HB249 and they plan to support it.
(2) commented that Virginia City will get funding one way or another; it just has to
be decided which Bill it will come out of. (3) mentioned BACC II coming up this weekend at the
Fieldhouse, which is the Chamber's fifteenth anniversary of the Trade Show. (4) went to the
Great Wally Byam Caravan progressive dinner last Tuesday evening, which he characterized as
very successful. He said he had a very nice letter from the 1989 International Chairman who
lives in Billings, who is pushing to get the Chamber on the agenda in Huntsville in June to
. promote Bozeman, prior to bidding on the convention being held in the year 2000. The
Executive Director noted bidding for the Convention will be done in Boise in 1998.
Mayor Stueck thanked the Executive Director for his update.
( 15) Discussion was held as to an Executive Session concerning further procedure
with the City Manager process, with the decision being made to hold it Wednesday at 3:00
p.m., pending confirmation from Commissioner Frost that he can attend at that time.
(16) Mayor Stueck reported: (1) he received a letter from the Red Cross, noting
he will give it to the Acting City Manager and that if anyone wishes to make a nomination for
distinguished service to the community, they should do so. (2) said the City has once again
been awarded the status of Tree City, U.S.A. (3) noted he had attended the usual meetings.
(4) said information in the City Manager selection process should be available in the near future.
. Responding to Commissioner Rudberg, Commissioner Frost said the City received
trees when it first qualified for the National Arbor Day program, noting there are also signs
outside the City proclaiming its status.
In response to Commissioner Rudberg, Acting City Manager Brey said we have
pursued some grant assistance over the years that allowed us to buy boulevard trees for half
04-14-97
- 14 -
price, and that some of these programs were available because we were a tree city, and that
fulfilling these requirements made us eligible for competition in other areas.
Commissioner Rudberg requested that the City recognize the people at the water
course who are behind the blue painting project. Mayor Stueck replied there are other people
to be recognized, also, and that the Clerk of the Commission is keeping a list.
.
Recess - 5:45 p.m.
Mayor Stueck declared a recess at 5:45 p.m., to reconvene at 7:00 p.m., for the
purpose of conducting the scheduled public hearings.
Reconvene - 7:00 p.m.
Mayor Stueck reconvened the meeting at 7:00 p.m., for the purpose of conducting
the scheduled public hearings.
Signing of Notice of Special Meeting
. Each of the Commissioners, in turn, signed the Notice of Special Meeting.
Public hearina - to receive comments on community efforts related to public facilities. housina
and economic development for purposes of updating the City's community needs assessment
for COBG and HOME grant applications
This was the time and place set for the public hearing to update the City's community
needs assessment for COBG and HOME grant applications.
Mayor Stueck opened the public hearing, noting that no decision will be made this
evening.
Neighborhood Coordinator/Grantsperson James Goehrung noted that the purpose of
this hearing is to conduct the first of two required hearings preparatory to submitting an
application for COGB or HOME monies. He said there is a requirement by the Department of
. Commerce that at least ninety percent of grant monies received are spent down before a new
grant is applied for under the COBG program, and the City will be eligible for the housing
program in the Fall.
Mayor Stueck reminded everyone to sign up at the door, since as many signatures as
possible are needed so they can be sent to Helena.
04-14-97
.-.., -------.-
- 15 -
Jeff Rupp, Executive Director of the Human Resource Development Council requested,
on behalf of HRDC, that the City conduct an update on their community-wide needs
assessment, noting it is pivotal for accessing a wide variety of funds, primarily the Community
Development Block Grant. He agreed with Commissioner Rudberg that the City needs
assessment should be a joint effort of all parties involved, and that there are very specific
. activities and issues that need to be addressed concerning CDBG activities.
Mr. Rupp assured the City that HRDC will agree to help the City pay for and put
together the needs assessment. The Director noted one thing that consistently shows up in
HRDC's assessments is the need for a shelter for homeless persons. He said HRDC continues
to address the problem by planning to use the old Post Office or Armory, and that the General
Services Administration has approved their application to use the upper floors for support
services and office functions, and the garden level for transitional apartments for the homeless.
Mr. Rupp noted work has begun with Taylor Architects, and that renovation costs are
estimated at about $1 million. He said one identified source of funds is a public facilities grant,
and they will ask the City to sponsor a grant application in 1998. He noted HRDC's support
. for a needs assessment.
Michael Vincent, 111 Sourdough Ridge Road, said he is the current President of
Habitat for Humanity of Gallatin Valley. He commented that, last year, his group ran an ad in
the local newspaper concerning low income housing, and received over 150 responses for
housing. To date, he said, they have been able to build only seven houses, with three more
constructed on North 24th Avenue. Mr. Vincent said that, at the end of this year, they will
have no more land for building unless land is donated or found at a reasonable price. He
concluded by saying there is a definite need for low income, affordable housing in Gallatin
Valley, indicating that his group supports an updated needs assessment.
Don Killian, 702 Bridger Drive, spoke of his group's on-going efforts to purchase
Bridger View Mobile Home Court. Mr. Killian noted a demographic survey has been done, very
. much like a needs assessment, and that they will be happy to share it with the City. He said
that, of ninety-eight homes surveyed, eighty-five will have returned their surveys by the end
of this week, and monies are being raised by the residents towards a down-payment. Mr.
Killian said they are working with several different groups, including HRDC, would like to
receive Habitat for Humanity's endorsement, and indicated support for an updated needs
04-14-97
- 16 -
assessment.
Mr. Killian said that rent in Bridger View Mobile Home Park is currently $240 a month,
and that over the last five years the average rent increase is nine percent. He said that, using
those projections the rent in four years will be $294, and in ten years, it will be $375 to $597,
depending on the levels at which increases continue. Mr. Killian said the purchase of the court
. by a non-profit entity will stabilize the rents in Bridger View, and that 98 houses will be added
to the affordable housing stock of Bozeman.
Referring to the revolving funds that might be used to help pay for the needs
assessment, Mr. Killian said he is not sure it is a reality but that his group is open to writing a
proposal for that money as a loan for part of their pre-development project.
Stan Rosenburg, Itana Circle, said he purchased a mobile home in Bozeman and that,
in four years, the lot rent has increased better than 33%, with zero improvements. Mr.
Rosenburg said he does not know what the City can do, as there is no rent control, but stated
he feels this type of behavior is usurous at best, and that mobile homes are not supposed to
be high cost. He noted a person's options are to vacate or to move the home, which is almost
. impossible since there is no place to go within the city.
Joanne Jennings, 608 East Story, said she is on the Bozeman Housing Interfaith II
Board, noting the Board wants to re-apply for a grant for their second set of ten apartments in
September. She said her suggestion is that the City access the Gallatin Valley Tomorrow work
in May, since it contains a lot of public opinion about Bozeman. She stated her support for a
needs assessment.
Beth Ford, 702 Bridger Drive, noted the community needs this assessment to attract
federal money, so that a group does not have to "apply to the City every time it wants to buy
a postage stamp". She said Bozeman does need affordable housing because trailer lot rents
are increasing. She said she has recently returned from a seminar in Boise where groups from
all over exchanged ideas on managing affordable housing and the mistakes they had made.
. Ms. Ford said she has a lot of ideas, and that something has to be done about the housing in
Bozeman.
Gwen Gange, 1711 West Beall, said she is present as a member of Montana Peoples'
Action. She said a needs assessment is critical, that housing issues are too important to make
decisions of strategy based on information gathered by someone else for someone else's
04-14-97
~..,-..- - - ~'.~'- . --.- ..--.. '"
- 17 -
residences. Ms. Gange said she has personally known too many people who have left Bozeman
because they cannot afford to live here. She said Bozeman is losing bright, productive people,
and that every time it happens, a little bit of the fabric of the community unravels. Ms. Gange
says she feels it is critical that Bozeman move into the 21 st century with a clear and deep
understanding of what members of our community are experiencing. She said her group is
. currently doing a telephone survey to contact each one of their members to find out what their
concerns are, and that they are eager to share this information with the City. Ms. Gange said
that, if we are to invite new citizens and businesses to be part of our community, we must
have faith that every Bozeman family has access to a safe, fair, affordable place to call home.
Lisa Hoffman, 1000 North 17th, said she appreciates the fact that Bozeman is
considering a needs assessment, because in the six years she has been living here, she has
seen some dramatic changes which need to be evaluated. Ms. Hoffman said she is currently
working with the Bridger View people in their quest to buy the mobile home court in order to
provide low income housing for 98 families. This housing is already in place, she noted, and
if rents can be stabilized, Bozeman can retain it rather than having to replace such units. She
. further noted that perhaps the same can be done with Covered Wagon Mobile Home Park in
the future. Ms. Hoffman said she is hoping to write a proposal to the City for predevelopment
plans for the project, for funding from the revolving loan fund.
Lisa Hardiman, 1000 North 17th, said she and others have been working since last
August on a cooperative mobile home park or a community land trust involving one of
Bozeman's mobile home parks. Ms. Hardiman said mobile home court communities in Bozeman
have been in crisis ever since the boom hit Bozeman. She noted mobile home courts have been
called unsightly but that they are made up of residents from many walks of life, including
teachers, disabled people living on SSI, and senior citizens who cannot afford other housing.
Ms. Hardiman referenced the fact that many tenants live on a fixed income of between $650
and $702 a month, and that rent increases are becoming increasingly difficult to meet. She,
. therefore, feels citizens really need community-controlled mobile home courts. Ms. Hardiman
referenced different areas that can be of help in the needs assessment, such as Bridger View's
demographic survey, Housing Justice Chapter's survey of all MTA members, and United Way's
assessment.
Ms. Hardiman noted she is on the City's Community Affordable Housing Advisory
04-14-97
----...---- ------..--.". .-
- 18 -
Board, and she is concerned that the funds necessary for the needs assessment come from
somewhere other than this fund. Ms. Hardiman concluded by leaving the Commission a copy
of a booklet entitled "The Community Development Needs Assessment Process", put out by
the Montana Department of Commerce, which talks about the community development needs
assessment process, noting she has more copies at home.
. Jill Canfield, 8628 Huffine Lane, said she lived in Bozeman from 1979 to 1983, and
felt good about returning ten years later. She said she no longer feels the same way. She
noted many people have had to leave the city, and that she may shortly be one of those people
herself if housing does not become available at a more reasonable cost. Ms. Canfield noted she
has had four rent increases, to the present $365 a month, and that she is having a hard time
putting food on the table. She said she supports an updated needs assessment.
Kelly Polington, 16 Lancelot Lane, said she pays $240 a month lot rent, and that
they are facing a major water problem in the Court which will raise their rent further. She said
her parents live in their own home in a fairly nice neighborhood in Great Falls, and that she
herself pays more than they to live in a mobile home here. Ms. Polington said she is here to
. go to school, that it is very hard to manage, and that she supports the updated needs
assessment.
In response to Commissioner Stiff, Neighborhood Coordinator/Grantsperson James
Goehrung said he has some cost estimates for both the area-wide survey and the housing
update, which will be in the range of $8,000 He highlighted the process, which will include
preparation of the request for proposals, allowing for the appropriate amount of time for
response, then an evaluation of those applications, followed by the award of contract for the
work to be done. The Neighborhood Coordinator/Grantsperson recommended that a little extra
time be included for responses to the survey.
The Neighborhood Coordinator/Grantsperson said one component will probably be a
mail survey to a random selection of target households, with a follow-up mailing to those same
. people to make sure the survey has been returned. He noted other communities have used a
system under which those who return the survey will be eligible to enter a drawing for gifts
from area merchants.
The Neighborhood Coordinator/Grantsperson said the housing needs assessment will
be done amongst professionals, realtors, property owners, and property managers in the
04-14-97
- 19 -
community, and will be aimed at finding out what construction levels are, what current rent
levels are, and what the housing market is like in the area.
In response to Mayor Stueck, the Neighborhood Coordinator/Grantsperson said the
City is looking at a September deadline for a new round of applications, noting he would like
to have the needs assessment updated by that time, but that he does not want to rush things.
. He said he has been told that, if the survey is done right, the Department of Commerce is
willing to accept the results until the latter part of the year 2000 when new census data is
available.
In response to Commissioner Stiff, the Neighborhood Coordinator/Grantsperson said
the CDBG Revolving Loan Fund has been mentioned as a source of funding for the assessment
and that it is recognized by the Department of Commerce as a legitimate use. He said most
of the money from that fund is currently out on loan, and that the Commission will have to
decide whether or not the monies
are taken from that fund. The
Neighborhood
Coordinator/Grantsperson said he estimates the cost at around $8,000 and some support has
come from HRDC to offset the cost; however, we will not know the actual cost until a contract
. has been negotiated.
Commissioner Stiff commented this should be brought back on the agenda fairly soon.
In response to Commissioner Rudberg, the Neighborhood Coordinator/Grantsperson
said United Way did a needs assessment last year, but that it did not involve housing issues.
Since there were no Commissioner objections, Mayor Stueck closed the public
hearing.
Public hearing - proposal for implementina Phase I of an automated garbaae collection system
This was the time and place set for the public hearing on a proposal for implementing
Phase I of an automated garbage collection system.
Mayor Stueck opened the public hearing.
. The Acting City Manager noted relevant materials include a letter from Gilbert Vicain,
Whitehall, and testimony from Lorna Nelson, 503 North Bozeman Avenue, distributed just prior
to the meeting.
Director of Public Service Phill Forbes said that, at important milestones, the City tries
to review its operations in garbage collection, and that we are now beyond the normal time for
04-14-97
- 20 -
rotating a new truck into our fleet. He noted there is a choice of two trucks; one providing
automated collection that is manned by a single person, and one that maintains the present
method of operation. The Director of Public Service noted the proposal to be discussed is a
phased-in conversion to automated collection of solid waste, and said it is staff's opinion that
it is simply more efficient. He commented that a number of other cities use it, as well as
e private haulers in this area.
The Director of Public Service noted that the presentation makes reference to
exclusive garbage collection rights, under which the City Commission may have control of
collection. He said this is included in the proposal as a possible component of an integrated
solid waste management plan and that, if the Commission expresses an interest in this,
additional work and public interaction will be required and the matter will be pursued.
The Director continued by noting the evolution of the solid waste rates over the last
few years, referencing the days when the solid waste collection rate assessment was based
on the size of a home, specifically the number of bedrooms. He noted that, a number of years
ago, the change was made to a tag system that included a base rate and tag, thereby utilizing
. a volume-based rate. He said the original fees then were an $85 base rate, plus a 3D-cent tag.
The Director of Public Service said, at that time, the Commission asked the department to
amend the rate structure to include a reduction incentive. He said that structure is in place
today, whereby a single family residence pays a $52 base rate and $1.15 per 33-gallon tag.
The Director commented that the proposal is still basically volume based; it asks for
a base rate that covers all collection costs and a volume component based on the size of the
container. He said the rate structure provides a greater differential in service levels that
effectively encourages recycling, noting there are expanded opportunities for convenient
recycling that the Streets/Sanitation Superintendent has been working on through the
Headwaters Recycling Cooperative effort.
In response to Commissioner Stiff, the Director of Public Service said the Commission
. has the authority to pass a resolution or ordinance wherein, after a five year period, the City
can control garbage collection throughout the City. He said whether that would be with City
crews doing all the collection, or whether it would be a continuation of the present situation,
with all control held by the City, is up to the Commission.
Streets/Sanitation Superintendent Roger Sicz handed out copies of a booklet entitled
04-14-97
-------.
- 21 -
"Straight Talk" about automated refuse collection, noting it is an explanation of what
automated garbage collection will be for residents converting from rearload to automated
collection.
The Streets/Sanitation Superintendent proceeded to talk about the changes, noting
fairness in distribution of costs is a primary objective. He said the two private haulers in
. Bozeman utilize automated garbage collection trucks. Using an overhead projector, he gave an
overview of his booklet entitled "Garbage Collection As Proposed for FY 1997-98", which was
included in the Commissioners' packets.
Streets/Sanitation Superintendent Sicz referred to the three phases of the changeover,
noting that Phase I includes the purchase of one new 30 cubic yard fully automated side~load
garbage truck and 1750 garbage containers of various sizes, and emphasized that a customer
will still be assessed according to the volume of garbage. He said he has notification of one
retirement in his department so that, in this phase, staffing will drop naturally from six to five
people, plus one floater to drive the summer compost truck.
Streets/Sanitation Superintendent Sicz went on to discuss Phase II of the proposed
. system, noting it requires the purchase of another automated collection truck, and another 100
containers for new customers in the area. He said staffing in this phase would be down to four
employees, plus the floater.
Superintendent Sicz concluded by outlining Phase III which includes the purchase of
a used, fully automated side-load truck for use as a backup unit. He added that for the first and
second trucks, a 'flipper' will be purchased which goes on the back of the rear load trucks to
handle the 90-gallon containers, allowing them to be back-up collection vehicles for the heavy
containers. He said staffing remains at four employees plus the floater.
David Smith, Executive Director of the Bozeman Chamber of Commerce, noted that
the Chamber's mission statement includes the words 'preserving the free enterprise system'.
He queried whether utilizing the option of exclusive garbage collection is fair in the eyes of the
. private haulers.
Mr. Smith expressed his concern that the Commission is wrestling over a 1/4 million
dollar enterprise fund versus $1,000 for the Beautification Advisory Board. He applauded the
City for looking at streamlining programs, noting it is not as blatant as if the City were getting
into the garbage hauling business for the first time. Mr. Smith commented on the current trend
04-14~97
- 22 -
of cities to get out of business, and said this is one program the City should take a serious look
at. He does not think the City should be in competition with private haulers, noting that
perhaps the City's niche is tags or composting.
Rick Meis, 718 South 12th Avenue, distributed a letter to each Commissioner, noting
it is important to recognize the reasons that a volume-based tag system came about in the first
. place. He recognized the Director of Public Service's comments on the subject, and
emphasized the life of the landfill, which was of great concern at the time the tag system was
instituted. He noted the life of the landfill was extremely important considering the high cost
of a new landfill, and commended the Streets/Sanitation Superintendent for his work in setting
up the tag system. Mr. Meis noted his extreme disappointment at some of the hostile
comments made by members of the public who had chosen not to be involved with setting up
the tag system. He said Bozeman has an advantage over many other communities in its
opportunities to recycle, and that there are many future opportunities to improve on this which
would extend the life of the landfill.
Mr. Meis said his major concern is those people who have a minute quantity of
. garbage each week, or month, saying they should not be penalized for recycling and reducing
waste. He urged the City to institute lower rates for lower volume garbage. He concluded by
urging the Commission to look into the question of a new landfill.
Don Kreitz, 2001 Fairway Drive, quipped he cannot get too excited about garbage
collection, per se, but that it has always been his opinion garbage collection is what the City
of Bozeman does the best. He said one sees a good work ethic, and a job done efficiently on
a daily basis. He used terms such as regularity, promptness, and a good job attitude. Mr. Kreitz
noted that, for the City, the automated system is a downsizing situation to save money, and
that people don't like change, particularly where a machine takes a human being's job.
However, he concluded by saying that if the program does have merit, and if it does save
money, the Commission should take a good look at it.
. William L. Davis, 307 South Bozeman Avenue, said he is a Director of the Bozeman
Property Owners' Association. He referenced several questions he had about the booklet
"Straight Talk", beginning with No.6. He commented on the several ways that the items listed
there can actually be disposed of through recycling. Concerning NO.1 0, Mr. Davis said the City
does an excellent job of collecting garbage throughout the year. He went on to No. 12, noting
04-14-97
- 23 -
parking is a big problem where he lives. He said the rule governing a parked vehicle should be
enforced because parking is twice as difficult when the snowplow cannot clear the street
properly.
Mr. Davis then commented that No. 13 is a problem for the same reason as No. 12.
He said No. 14 really is a problem because there will be no control of how rubbish goes into
. the large dumpsters, and he wondered who will clean the filthy containers. Mr. Davis said he
would rather roll out a 33-gallon container than a larger one, and that he does not believe
citizens are ready for this right now. He concluded by encouraging the Commission to take a
good look at the new plan.
Els Cusic, 508 South 14th Avenue, said she was alarmed to see the size of some of
the garbage containers, wondering who will clean those over a 60-gallon size. She said she
was also concerned about the location of the containers, commenting the larger ones will be
hard for people like her to move. Ms. Cusic queried the cost for those individuals with small
amounts of trash, and she further wondered what will happen to those who become
unemployed due to automation.
. Charlotte Trolinger, 530 North Montana Avenue,
distributed a letter to the
Commissioners and noted she is one of the persons whose garbage rate will go up over 50%
under the new system because she puts out a 33-gallon can only once every two to three
months. She said she had taken the lower rate as an incentive to reduce and feels the present
system is a lot more fair for people like her. Ms. Trolinger commented how difficult it will be
for the elderly, handicapped, or anyone, to move around the large containers in the snow. She
said she is curious about the street locations of the containers under the new system,
wondering if they will stay out on the street. Ms. Trolinger also said she is concerned about
the loss of even a couple of jobs, noting that every type of cost comparison should be made
between the old system and the new.
Jim Devitt, 613 South Willson Avenue, noted garbage collection is a basic city
. service, like streets and sewers, which also addresses health and safety issues. He urged the
Commissioners to carefully consider this new system, not only economically but also from the
point of view of most of the concerns mentioned this evening. He said the only automated
system in his block is the messiest one. Mr. Devitt reiterated a view expressed earlier, that he
loves the City crews and has not seen anyone working harder than they do. He wondered if
04-14-97
.--- -.-
- 24 -
he has to fight with his neighbors about maintaining the 300-gallon container in his area, noting
he likes his garbage racks, and keeps his own containers clean. He said he would hate to have
trouble with the neighbors over such a thing as a garbage container.
Don Petersen, 325 North Montana Avenue, said the City garbage crews work hard,
and that he knows if he puts out only one bag he pays only $1. He also said he does not want
. a large container sitting out the front of his house, neither does he want to drag a container
from the alley to the street. He said it is difficult to move his car, and to do so each time he
needs to move the container will be aggravating. Mr.
Petersen said he hopes the
Commissioners bear in mind that the issue of automated garbage collection has come up
before, and was defeated, likening it to the sales tax efforts.
Lavina Chadbourne, 604 Dell Place, commended the garbage crews for the wonderful
job they do. She noted her concern for those employees put out of work by the new system,
and asked what is to be done with a citizen's present garbage cans. Ms. Chadbourne asked
that consideration be given to those putting out infrequent garbage. She queried how one will
get rid of compost under the new system, concluding by commenting "if it ain't broke, don't
. fix it". Mary Vant Hull, 416 East Story Street, distributed a letter to the Commissioners, and
said she hopes this program either gets shot down or changed. Concerning the automated
system, she said she had not mentioned in her letter that the arms on these trucks raise and
lower very slowly and that, in a wind, paper goes all over the ground. Ms. Vant Hull also said
she had spoken to several people at the Senior Center who prefer to use tags because they
have such a little bit of garbage. She said she believes an automated system is possible and
she is willing to trundle out a large container if the collection is geared to a volume base.
Allan Roush, 1615 South Black Avenue, reiterated many of the things already
mentioned, including the great City crews. He said he and wife prefer to stay with the current
system. Mr. Roush said one new thing to talk about is what happens to the system when a
. large item is put out with tags. He wondered if the new system will still deal with such items.
Ethel Main, 308-1/2 South Black Avenue, said she has a hard time getting around and
wonders how she will manage the large containers. She noted she does not want to have to
pay for renters' garbage and if she has to, it might cause a raise in rents. She urged the
Commissioners to consider those with little garbage.
04-14-97
-..---..-..-......-. .__..._ ._n..__..._
-...-
..-. .-.--. --..--....-...- ---...-----.--... -
~ 25 ~
Floyd Strickler, 705 East Cottonwood Street, referenced the alley pickups of the 300
gallon containers shared by three people. He said no one has mentioned how the cost of these
containers is to be shared, noting his neighbor has very little garbage and will have little use
for such a container. Mr. Strickler said his is an alley pickup and that the large container will
fit through neither his gate nor his neighbor's when it needs to be put on the street. He said
. he has noticed that lids are never closed on the large containers around town and littering from
the wind is bad. He concluded by saying the City crews do a great job with their collections
and picking up stray trash.
Greg Beardslee, 221 North Church Avenue, said his is an alley pickup and noted he
will have to share a large container with two other residences. He said one neighbor is a slob
when it comes to garbage, letting trash blow all over the alley, and that the garbage stinks.
He emphasized he does not want to share a container with such people and prefers to deal with
his own trash, noting that a share arrangement will create more animosity.
ReNae Grantier, 1309 South Willson Avenue, said she lives on 'pig alley', noting a
lot of places around her house are rentals. She said three to four of them use City service, two
. use Harry Ellis, and that she uses Three Rivers. Ms. Grantier said she has seen tag thefts with
neighboring renters stealing their landlord's tags from his garbage. She said she had bought
a trash compactor for her tenants, which has reduced her garbage to 45 gallons per week.
However, she said between the blowing trash and the mess caused by foraging dogs, the alley
is a mess.
Ms. Grantier said she lives on the 450 slope up to the old Bozeman gravel pit, noting
that an underground spring on the hill, together with all the traffic of heavy trucks, makes the
slope slippery and hard for garbage trucks to navigate. A further factor that makes garbage
pickup difficult, she said, is the cars parking in the alley to avoid paying parking fees. Ms.
Grantier concluded by saying she supports automated garbage collection in the interests of
cleaning up the alley, if the surface of the slope can be fixed.
. Harry Ellis, 719 North Ida Avenue,
introduced himself as 'one of the local
garbagemen', and referenced the Streets/Sanitation Superintendent's figures. He outlined the
rapid rise in numbers of his business accounts, both inside and outside the city, and said he has
eighteen employees. He said the City had had a policy of no new commercial accounts for ten
years and that he applied for State Public Service Commission authority to haul garbage in
04-14~97
---.---
- 26 -
January, 1984. He said he was issued the authority in December 1994, eleven years later, and
complained that just a few months after he began his business, the City officially changed its
policy to welcome new commercial accounts and actively solicited for accounts. He said he
would rather see the City fixing potholes in the street or checking into water service.
Mr. Ellis said the City is looking at labor costs in the park department collection
. program of about $22,000 in the first year, growing to $110,000 by the end of the fifth year.
Mr. Ellis went on record as saying he will contract the same work for half that amount. He said
the same labor comparison projections were used throughout the program, noting that if this
is a true projection of costs, he wonders if the other departments, such as water and sewer,
will accelerate at the same rate.
Mr. Ellis said he has several more questions that he will submit to the Commission in
writing. He said that, after his company began collecting cardboard, Three Rivers followed suit,
and then the City of Bozeman. Mr. Ellis said his company would like the opportunity to bid on
collection services they could perform for the City, and noted the national trend towards
privatization.
. Mr. Peter Van Dyken, 310 North 3rd A venue, compared Customized Services' charges
to those of the City and said his garbage collection assessment will go up approximately $100
per year if Customized Services takes over. Mr. Van Dyken said he cannot afford that extra
cost and this is the reason, perhaps, they do not have more City business. He said Customized
Services' fees are unreasonable and he is very happy with the City. He went on to say he has
no problem with the automated system except for the alley pickup. He also said he will have
a problem paying for 100-gallon pickup when he produces only 20 gallons a week and urged
the Commissioners to leave things the way they are.
Mr. Harry Kirschenbaum, 150 Sweetgrass, said he works in marketing for Customized
Services, and agrees with Mr. Van Dyken that the City does a wonderful job currently. He said,
however, that his company has not been asked to put together a proposal for service collection
. so he does not know what his company's rates would be. Mr. Kirschenbaum took issue with
the exclusive garbage collection rights, noting that someone is trying to legislate a monopoly
that will cost jobs in the private sector. He also took exception to the expenditure of $549,000
for equipment in the three phases, which equipment the existing private garbage hauling
companies already have in Bozeman. He concluded by saying the City is looking for money for
04-14-97
.. ----.--.....---..---...
- 27 -
a fire truck and that, while one cannot call the private garbage haulers to put out a fire, they
are ready, willing and able to collect trash.
Streets/Sanitation Superintendent Roger Sicz responded to some of the questions
raised, noting a major concern is the large alley container. He said those with smaller amounts
of garbage can check out a 33 or SO-gallon container to go in the street, and the Commission
. has the discretion to assess a rate for those who put out a low volume of garbage, or a senior
citizen rate.
With reference to the City's decision to
pick up commercial accounts, the
Superintendent said it was because, when the tag system came into being, the City lost
approximately $SO,OOO to $70,000 worth of customers and, to save jobs, his department went
after other garbage collection. He said he had also had many commercial customers ask why
the City did not collect their garbage.
The Superintendent said he has many photographs to prove that automated garbage
collection is far cleaner that manual pickup and that a drive through the alleys of Helena and
Billings will prove his point. He said he is aware it can be a problem for some people to push
. containers out of alleys into the streets, but noted many cities with similar or worse climates
do have automated garbage collection. He feels sure there can be some exceptions made to
help those who really do need assistance with the containers.
The Superintendent referenced the large, bulky objects now put out with tags and
said he expects the system will be continued. He went on to say a garbage container does not
need to be left in the street, but can be left in a corner of the driveway. As for cleaning the
containers, the Superintendent noted his desire for a program to clean and sanitize the
commercial containers, and forwarded his hope for setting up a program for the smaller
containers also. He said most people build a rack for the smaller containers or store them in
their garage so they do not remain on the curb. He further said sharing garbage containers
seems to work out very well in other cities.
. Streets/Sanitation Superintendent Sicz said cities collect the garbage for a reason,
which is to provide a service to their residents, and drew citizens' attention to the large
container outside City Hall. He noted Bozeman has signed an interlocal agreement with eight
other counties and Yellowstone Park to encourage and provide drop-off sites for recyclables.
He said this is expected to come on line in August, and that the City is trying to encourage
04-14-97
- 28 -
people to recycle and thereby save the landfill. The Superintendent commented that, when the
footprint for the current landfill expansion of 15 acres was designed, a Class III area was also
incorporated, for brush, tires and concrete, to avoid putting these items into the expensively-
lined landfill.
In response to Mayor Stueck, Acting City Manager Brey said the labor costs will not
. go up over $100,000 a year for the manual system; these figures are cumulative over five
years.
Responding to Commissioner Stiff, the Superintendent said the City will need to buy
one new truck for each of the first two phases, if a fully automated system is implemented for
commercial pickups.
In response to Mayor Stueck, the Superintendent said cost savings will be about
$400,00 over a five year period, and that it is mainly accounted for in labor savings, greater
efficiency, and picking up more accounts.
Further in response to the Mayor ,
the
Superintendent said he was thinking not only of saving two City jobs, compared to losing thirty
jobs in private industry, by utilizing the exclusive right to collect garbage clause, but that
. greater efficiency and low cost for residents is also a primary concern. He emphasized that the
use of such a clause is at the discretion of the Commissioners.
Acting City Manager Brey noted efficiency only comes into play when a piece of
equipment is used to its full capacity, and that accounts lost translate to efficiency lost. He
further said the only thing the Commission will be doing by invoking the exclusive hauling rights
will be to ensure stability of flow into the landfill.
Further responding to the Mayor, the Acting City Manager said the exclusive authority
is completely disengaged from the automated collection; they are two separate issues. He said
the one is to do with efficiency, the other is a stability issue.
In response to Commissioner Stiff, the Superintendent said the 1750 pickups
estimated for the new truck in Phase I will not be utilizing the truck to its capacity, but it will
. take a while for the driver to get used to the route, and that efficiency will increase as
familiarity increases. He said a commercial truck with two attendants can perhaps pick up 150-
160 accounts a week.
Commissioner Stiff said he feels Mr. Sicz has done a very good job, and that the
Commission welcomes any input it can get.
04~ 14-97
- 29 -
Streets/Sanitation Superintendent Sicz noted that, even though someone might have
a small amount of garbage, the City still has to operate so that it is not at a loss. He noted the
many variations of how frequently garbage is put out by citizens, and encouraged the
Commissioners to take a hard look at this.
In response to Commissioner Frost, the Superintendent said the automated trucks will
. still pick up those infrequent bags; the resident will still have a 20-gallon container and will sign
a waiver for how much garbage they generate in a month. He further said the City still has an
obligation to pick up the garbage, no matter how much or how infrequently.
Acting City Manager Brey noted the requests from Customized Services to respond
in writing, and said it is his feeling the public written input period should be extended for
another week. The Acting City Manager suggested bringing this back on the work agenda for
April 28. He noted the Commissioners will then need a couple of weeks for deliberation.
Commissioner Stiff concurred with the Acting City Manager, noting he does not feel
it compromises the timetable at all.
In response to a question from the floor, Streets/Sanitation Superintendent Sicz
. responded that residents will buy a tag for extra bags generated over theie cans' capacity.
Kay Peden, 516 Dell Place, referenced Mr. Sicz's statement that those with only one
container a month can sign up for this, commenting that the City must also take into
consideration the honesty of that person.
Mary Vant Hull stated she believes all those happy with the tag system should be
allowed to continue with that system. In response, Superintendent Sicz said his basic
opposition to this is the cost, and that he would be afraid of losing the whole department.
Commissioner Rudberg commented she is not the youngest person in the room and
that her driveway is 65 feet in length. She said when her garbage can gets full, she takes it
down the driveway, and it is easier than one would think.
With no Commissioner objections, Mayor Stueck closed the verbal portion of the
. public hearing, leaving it open for written comments until noon on Monday, April 21. He noted
written comments should be sent to the Clerk of the Commission, stating that this will be a
future agenda item and that the public will be notified.
Mayor Stueck thanked everyone for attending the meeting.
04-14-97
.-
------
- 30 -
Adjournment - 10:00 D.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.
( O~ /_}j~
DON E. STUECK, Mayor
ATTEST:
CzItaA1 /) Mav~
GILLIAN Z. ERLANDSON
Deputy Clerk of the Commission
.
.
04-14-97