HomeMy WebLinkAbout1996-04-01 Minutes, City Commission
MINUTES
OF THE MEETING OF THE CITY COMMISSION
BOZEMAN, MONTANA
April 1, 1996
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. The Commission of the City of Bozeman met in regular session in the Commission
Municipal Building, April
1 , 1996,
at 3:00 p.m. Present were Mayor Stueck,
Room, Commissioner Rudberg, Commissioner Stiff, Commissioner Frost, Commissioner Youngman,
City Manager Wysocki, City Attorney Luwe and Clerk of the Commission Sullivan.
The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence.
Mayor Stueck asked if any of the Commissioners wished to remove any of
the
Consent Items for discussion. City Manager Wysocki
requested that award of the bid for
expansion of the Swim Center be removed for discussion.
Minutes - March 18 and March 2~, 1996
It was moved by Commissioner Rudberg, seconded by Commissioner Stiff, that
the
. minutes of the meetings of March 18 and March 25, 1996, be approved as submitted.
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.
Mayor Stueck deferred action on the minutes of the meetings of November
20 and
December 4, 1995, to a later date.
Conditional Use Permit - Gaston Enqineerinq for Town Pump, Inc. - allow conversion of existinQ
4,200-square-foot space in Buttrey's Shoppinq Center into casino servinq alcoholic beveraqes-
Buttrey's Tract of Kirk's 2nd Addition ( 1601 West Main Street
(Z-9603)
This was the time and place set for the decision on the Conditional Use
Permit
requested by Gaston Engineering for Town Pump, Inc., under Application No. Z-9603, to allow
. conversion of an existing 4,200-square-foot space in Buttrey's Shopping Center into a casino
serving alcoholic beverages. The subject site is more commonly known as 1601 West Main
Street.
Planning
Director Epple
noted that Associate
Planner Dean Patterson had
comprehensively reviewed the background information and issues at last week's agenda
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meeting.
He noted that the Commissioners have also received copies of the staff report, the
minutes from the City-County Planning Board meeting and their resolution,
forwarding a
recommendation of denial.
Mr. Jerry Gaston, engineer representing the applicant, stated general concurrence
. with the staff report, except for recommended conditions of approval Nos. 3, 4 and 5. He
noted that those conditions reference items which are binding "on the owner
of the land, his
successors or assigns". In this instance, however, the applicant is a leaseholder;
and he does
not wish to commit the owner to those conditions.
Mr. Gaston briefly reviewed the staff report, which contains the six criteria
set forth
in the Bozeman Municipal Code for considering conditional use permits.
He noted that the
subject site has been developed as a shopping center; and the subject 4,200-square-foot
space
represents less than 5 percent of the entire area of the shopping center.
He reminded the
Commission that the space already exists, with a loading area in the rear
and parking in the
front.
He noted that the subject property is served by North 15th Avenue, which operates at
a Level B, and US Highway 191, or West Main Street, which currently operates
at a Level C.
. Mr. Gaston noted that all of the activities in this business are to occur
indoors. The
applicant has spoken with most of the business owners in the Buttrey's
Shopping Center and,
except for some concerns about parking, which were registered by those
on the south end of
the shopping center, no major concerns were expressed about this proposed
business. He
stated that, based on the zone code, a total of 501 parking spaces are
needed for all of the
businesses located in the shopping center; 570 parking spaces are currently
delineated in the
parking lot; and the parking lot can actually accommodate in excess of
700 vehicles at the
present time.
He recognized that the parking lot does not meet code requirements for
landscaping and traffic protection; however, he feels it would be unfair
to require those
improvements in conjunction with a leasehold operation that occupies less
than 5 percent of
the space.
. Mr. Jerry Gaston noted that some concern was expressed about trash and
vandalism
during the public hearing before the City-County Planning Board.
He stated that those
conditions already exist in the area and should be viewed as a police enforcement
problem
rather than as a problem that this proposed casino is anticipated to compound.
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Mr. Gaston addressed the proximity of this proposed casino to churches
and schools
in the area. He stated that the distances which have been referenced regarding
the proximity
to those facilities pertain to liquor licenses; and that is a separate
issue from the item currently
before the Commission.
He noted that an adjacent space within the shopping center already
. houses a lounge with gaming machines.
He further noted that the existing lounge does not
seem to have created any problems for young people who go to other establishments in
Buttrey's Shopping Center or McDonald's for lunch.
Responding to Mayor Stueck, Assistant Planning Director Debbie Arkell stated
that
the section in the code pertaining to a 20-percent increase in traffic
and parking impacts applies
to redevelopment or reuse of a piece of property, and is not applicable
in this instance, since
the conditional use process has been triggered through the sale and consumption
of alcoholic
beverages on the premises.
Responding to City Manager Wysocki, Associate Planner Patterson stated
that, while
the subject site is 570 feet from the nearest church, although not addressed
from the same
street, the existing lounge lies just outside the 600-foot buffer for churches
and schools which
. are addressed from the same street.
Responding to Commissioner Youngman, the Associate Planner stated that
Condition
No.3, as recommended by staff, contains the four standard boilerplate conditions
for all
conditional use permits, as set forth in the zone code.
He recognized that arrangements
between lessors and lessees can create problems when attempting to enforce
these conditions.
City Attorney Luwe reminded the Commission that the conditional use permit
runs
with the land; and this applicant could transfer ownership of the casino
to someone else, who
must then comply with the conditions of approval. He then recommended that
the Commission
include the standard conditions in approval of the application, to ensure
that they are met even
if ownership of the business changes.
He recognized the difficulty that this can create with
. a lessor/lessee relationship; however, he suggested those problems could
be addressed through
a separate agreement between the two parties.
Responding to Commissioner Frost, Associate Planner Dean Patterson recognized
that
cooperation between the property owner and the lessee is essential under
Condition No.4,
since the property owner becomes responsible for the improvements once
they have been
installed.
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Mayor Stueck expressed concern that under the recommended conditions, the
lessee
is being asked to make a commitment for parking lot redesign and, if the
lessor is not willing
to accept the redesign, then the lessee cannot meet the conditions.
Commissioner Rudberg stated that, while she does not like the idea of another
casino,
. she does not see any legal way to not approve it. She noted that requiring this applicant to
redesign the parking lot, which is huge, would be inappropriate.
She recognized that the
parking lot needs to be resurfaced and restriped, although that should
not be a part of
approving this application, either.
She then suggested the possibility of removing long-term
parking immediately in front of the businesses, changing it to 15-minute
parking only.
Commissioner Stiff stated he feels adequate parking is available, and that
the
applicant should not be required to provide parking lot improvements.
Commissioner Frost stated that, while he agrees there is adequate parking,
he feels
that the traffic circulation should be improved, parking spaces should
be more defined, and
pedestrian safety should be enhanced in the entire parking lot. He then
indicated that, without
the five conditions recommended by staff, he cannot support approval of
this application.
. Commissioner Youngman stated she feels there are sufficient grounds upon
which to
legally deny this application, particularly in light of the Planning Board's
recommendation. She
expressed concern about the configuration of the existing parking lot,
noting that the parking
lot is often full enough that one must cross several travel lanes before
reaching the safety of
a sidewalk. She noted that this proposed use will generate even more long-term
parking in the
lot; and that will further impact the short-term parking situation. She
recognized Condition No.
4, as recommended, would ensure that the parking lot is safer for pedestrians;
however,
approval of the application without that condition would only serve to
further compound the
problems and make the lot less safe for students to cross. She also expressed
concern about
the proximity of this proposed use to churches and schools.
Mayor
Stueck stated that,
while he does not support Condition
No. 4, as
.
recommended, he feels it would be appropriate to revise Condition NO.5 to require that the
applicant obtain a confirmation from the lessor that the parking lot will
be upgraded as soon
as possible, indicating that he hopes upgrades, particularly those pertaining
to safety, will be
implemented as quickly as possible.
He then indicated that, another review of the current
parking lot revealed there is not adequate space for a double row of parking
along the south
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end of the parking lot, where the single row of parking currently exists.
He also noted that his
concerns about the proposed parking spaces at the bottom of the hill from
the center access
from West Main Street were compounded by his latest review of the parking
lot.
Responding to Commissioner Youngman, Mayor Stueck stated that 78 parking
spaces
. are needed for this application, which involves 5 percent of the total square footage of the
shopping center structure. He also noted there are an adequate number of
spaces in the
existing parking lot, particularly since many of the businesses within
the shopping center attract
only short-term shoppers.
He concluded by stating that this proposed 4,200-square-foot
business does not seem to generate the type of burden that is needed to
justify the suggested
conditions pertaining to the parking lot.
Commissioner Rudberg stated that she can typically park where she wants
to in this
parking lot.
She then indicated that drawing lines in the parking lot will not address the
concerns which have been raised about how this parking lot functions.
Commissioner Frost stated that parking lots can be designed to provide
for the safety
of pedestrians as well as the safe maneuvering of vehicles, citing the
lot at Wal-Mart as an
. example.
It was moved by Commissioner Stiff that the Commission approve the Conditional
Use
Permit requested by Gaston Engineering for Town Pump, Inc., under Application
No. Z~9603,
to allow conversion of an existing 4,200-square-foot space in Buttrey's
Shopping Center into
a casino serving alcoholic beverages, subject to the following conditions:
1 . The proposed
signage shall be modified to be in conformance with
the Bozeman
Sign Code and Design Objectives Plan. The final
plan
for the sign shall include details, comprehensive labeling and
complete
dimensioning. Approval of the sign shall be obtained by
the Design
Review Board;
2. The applicant
shall provide painted striping in the parking lot to
delineate
the additional number of parking stalls required by the
Bozeman
Zoning Ordinance;
3. When
a Conditional Use Permit has been approved by the City
. Commission,
the permit shall be issued by the Planning Director
upon the receipt of the applicant's written
consent to all of the
conditions
imposed, including the CUP conditions required by
Section
18.53.030.G.:
a.
That the right to a use and occupancy permit
shall be contingent upon the fulfillment of all
general and special conditions imposed by the
conditional use permit process;
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b. That
all of the special
conditions shall
constitute restrictions running with the land
use and shall be binding upon the owner of the
land, his successors or assigns;
c. That all conditions specifically stated under
any conditional use listed in this title shall
apply and be adhered to by the owner of the
.
land, successors or assigns; and
d. That all of the special conditions shall be
consented to in writing by the applicant; and
4.
The applicant, in cooperation with the property owner, shall
arrange to have those parking areas along West Main Street which
are badly deteriorated
repaved to a
parking lot standard
acceptable to the Engineering Department. Documentation
that
the property owner approves of and authorizes the repaving shall
be provided to the Planning Office prior to issuance of the
Conditional Use Permit as per Condition No.3.
Mayor Stueck yielded the gavel to Commissioner Rudberg for the purpose
of seconding the
motion.
The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being
Commissioner Stiff, Commissioner (Mayor) Stueck and Commissioner Rudberg;
those voting
No being Commissioner Frost and Commissioner Youngman.
. Commissioner
Rudberg returned the gavel to Mayor Stueck.
Preliminarv clat review - Morrison-Maierle for Golf Course Partners - Bridaer
Creek Subdivisions,
Phase II and III - allow subdivision of 56.6 acres into 91 single-familv
lots and 1 condominium
lot - portion of tract in NW%, Section 1. T1 S. R6E. MPM (both sides of
Mcllhattan Road.
immediatelv south of City landfill) (P-9601)
This
was the time and place set for review of the preliminary plat for Bridger Creek
Subdivision, Phases II and III, as requested by Morrison-Maierle for Golf
Course Partners, to
allow 56.6 acres located in the Northwest one-quarter of Section 1 South,
Range 6 East,
Montana Principal Meridian, into 91 single-family lots and 1 condominium
lot. The subject
parcel is more commonly located along both sides of Mcllhattan Road, immediately
south of
the City landfill.
Senior
Planner Dave Skelton presented the staff report. He reminded the Commission
. that Phase I of the subdivision, which contains a total of 287 acres, has been approved as the
mixed use phase of a planned unit development.
Also, the 18-hole golf course, which is the
central portion of the development, has been completed and is in operation.
He stated that
under this application, the final two phases of the development are being
considered; and that
involves ensuring that the entire development is completed in accordance
with the master plan
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for the project.
He stated that Phase II contains 47 single-family residential lots and 1
condominium lot; and Phase III contains 44 single-family residential lots.
He reminded the
Commission that this subdivision lies south of the City's landfill and
west of Story Mill Road,
with Mcllhattan Road bisecting the property.
. Senior Planner Skelton stated that staff has identified the impacts this proposed
subdivision will have on the surrounding area and the City's infrastructure;
and that information
is contained in the written staff report, which was previously distributed
to the Commission.
He noted that this application has also been reviewed in light of the six
public interest criteria
set forth in the Montana Code Annotated; and those comprehensive findings
are also contained
in the written staff report. He characterized the issues for these two
phases as being the same
as those identified for Phase I.
He noted that in Phase II, the groundwater depth has been
identified at 3.7 feet below the surface, which precludes the digging of
basements in that area.
He noted, however, that in Phase III, the groundwater depth is 8 feet below
the surface. He
indicated that impacts to the existing watercourses must be mitigated;
and that can be
accomplished by cooperating with the Soil Conservation Service and the
Department of Fish,
. Wildlife and Parks.
The Senior Planner stated that Phase II is to be developed before Phase
III. He noted
that, because of the timing of development, the applicant has raised concerns
about some of
the recommended conditions for approval, as contained in the resolution
from the City-County
Planning Board. He indicated that staff has recommended, and the Planning
Board concurred,
that looping of the water main through Phase III must be completed in conjunction
with Phase
II; and the length of that looping is approximately 3,000 feet.
He also noted that a sewer
easement is being required to the north end of the property, as well as
extension of the 4-inch
sewer main to the north property line.
He stated that the Director of Public Service has
forwarded a recommendation that the City pay $ 7,460 toward that extension,
since it would
end at the landfill. He noted that the clubhouse has already been connected
to the City sewer;
. and the Planning Board has recommended that the applicant be required to
complete an
application for connection to sewer service and be billed retroactively
for the services received
to date. He stated the applicant is proposing 12-foot-wide utility easements
in front of the lots
in Phase II and III; however, subdivision regulations require that those
easements be 20 feet
wide and that they be located on the rear or side lot lines. He stated
that, following discussion,
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staff has recommended the conditions be written to provide some flexibility
in the location of
the utility easements, to accommodate staff concerns as well as the applicant's
desires.
Senior Planner Skelton stated that this subdivision is accessed from Bridger
Drive,
Story Mill Road and Mcllhattan Road.
To accommodate impacts from this subdivision, the
. applicant is to improve Mcllhattan Road to the western edge of the property to a 28-foot-wide
paved standard with gravel shoulders, and improve Story Mill Road from
Mcllhattan Road to
the northern boundary of the property to a County road standard.
The Senior Planner forwarded the applicant's request for a waiver to the
requirement
to provide a second access from Phase II. He noted that the Development
Review Committee
discussed this request at length, and determined that the request is appropriate.
He noted that,
given the topography of the area, Mcllhattan Road is twenty feet higher
than Phase II. Also,
the road would cross wetlands and one of the holes in the golf course.
The Senior Planner noted that under the R-3 zoning designation on this
property, 304
residences could have been constructed; however, under this application,
less than 100 units
are proposed.
He also noted that under the covenants, the applicant is proposing to limit
. development of the lots to single-family residential use except for Lot 16 in Phase II.
He
suggested that the appropriate notation be made on the plat to avoid confusion
in the future.
The Senior Planner stated that the applicant is required to dedicate 4.53
acres of
parkland in conjunction with this application; and he is proposing 4.80
acres in Phase III. A
private park in the interior of Phase II does not count toward the parkland
dedication because
it is to be owned and maintained by the property owners' association.
The Senior Planner noted that the 1990 Bozeman Area Master Plan Update
designates
the old Milwaukee railroad right-of-way for public open space and trail
corridors. He recognized
that this is a conceptual corridor; and, in this instance, that alignment
traverses the golf course.
He noted that a revised alignment was negotiated, to move the trail to
the southern edge of
the property in Phase I, ending at the East Gallatin Recreation Area.
He noted that in
.
conjunction with Phase II, the trail is to continue north; however, some concerns about the
exact alignment of that trail have yet to be resolved.
He indicated that, because of those
concerns, the applicant requested the decision on this preliminary plat
be delayed from March
18; and he provided an extension of the 60-day review period, to April
15, to allow time to
address that issue. He noted that the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board
sub-committee has
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forwarded a proposed revision to the condition pertaining to alignment
of the trail in its March
27 memo, which has been distributed to the Commission. He noted that a
question still exists
about who should be responsible for implementing the trail improvements;
and he suggested
that could be resolved prior to filing of the final plat for Phase II.
. The Senior Planner stated that, following its review of this application, staff forwarded
a recommendation for approval, subject to 43 conditions. He stated that,
following its public
hearing on this application at its
March 5 meeting, the
Planning Board forwarded its
recommendation for approval, also subject to 43 conditions.
He briefly highlighted the key
conditions in that recommendation, noting that they generally address the
issues which have
been previously identified.
Mr. Rex Easton, President of Golf Course Partners, Inc., stated that Senior Planner
Skelton has presented the application and the issues well.
He provided a brief update on the
trail corridor, stating he is interested in reaching an agreement on the
trail corridor that is
acceptable to all parties.
He suggested that, to allow the process to move forward, the
Commission revise the condition to allow him to work with the Recreation
and Parks Advisory
. Board to develop an alignment for the trail and an implementation plan prior to filing of the plat
for Phase II.
Mr. Easton suggested that Condition Nos. 16 and 31, pertaining to utility easements,
should be considered in tandem to ensure that revisions to one do not conflict
with the other
condition. He then turned his attention to looping of the water main.
He requested that they
either be allowed to provide a financial guarantee or allowed to install
the looped water line
when Phase II is 50 percent built out.
He expressed concern that to require looping of the
water main along Story Mill Road before the plans for improvement to that
roadway have been
completed is premature and would result in unnecessary costs of relocating
the line. He also
noted that installing the looped water main in conjunction with Phase II
infrastructure
. improvements would place a heavy financial burden on the project that he
feels could be
alleviated.
Mr. Easton addressed the issue of the bridge across Bridger Creek on Story Mill Road.
He stated that, while he is willing to bear his fair share of the costs
of upgrading the bridge,
he feels that the City should recognize its impacts from traffic going
to and from the landfill and
the County should recognize the impacts of traffic going to other rural
subdivisions. He
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recognized that the County intends to upgrade the bridge, at an estimated cost of $90,000;
and he does not feel it would be appropriate to require his subdivision to bear the entire cost.
At Mayor Stueck's request, Mr. Easton addressed the proposed revisions
to conditions
as forwarded by Senior Planner Skelton, stating his general concurrence with each of those
. conditions.
Responding to Commissioner Stiff, Mr. Easton stated that the proposed alignment
of
the trail crosses the golf course at a point where there is little danger, since it is located behind
a tee box. He noted that, while there is no safe place to cross a
golf course, this crossing is
more acceptable than many other options.
Responding to Mayor Stueck, Senior Planner Skelton stated it would be appropriate
to add a waiver of right to protest the creation of an SID/RID for improvements to the bridge
on Story Mill Road if the Commission wishes to do so. He then indicated that staff recognizes
the impacts which the City has on the bridge; however, since this is a County road, they feel
that the County should also become involved in the costs of improvement. He recognized that
obtaining their participation may be difficult.
. Responding to Commissioner Frost, Senior Planner Skelton suggested that
Condition
No. 26, pertaining to the trail corridor, should remain as flexible as possible, to allow for
negotiations between the applicant and the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board.
He then
indicated that he has no problem with combining Condition Nos. 16 and 31, if the Commission
wishes. He cautioned, however, that if Condition No. 31 is eliminated through
combining it
with Condition No. 16, then the City should require written approvals from all of the utility
agencies before the rear utility easements are eliminated.
Responding to Mayor Stueck, Mr. Easton stated that looping of the water
main from
Phase II back to Phase I would involve crossing four holes of the golf course.
He noted that
looping the water main from Phase II and Phase III involves crossing only one hole of the golf
course, which is much less disruptive.
. Mr. Bob Lee, Recreation and Parks Advisory Board, stated that the Board authorized
the Trails Subcommittee to work on behalf of the Board to resolve the issue of the trail
alignment and development. He noted that the Board reviewed
the pre-application for this
project last fall, and has worked closely with Mr. Easton through the process. He noted that
Mr. Easton is providing a significant amount of recreational amenities within the subdivision.
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He stated that the Committee's interest is in finding a route for the trail
that is practical and
aesthetically pleasing.
He stated that the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board is interested
in obtaining a trail corridor from the East Gallatin Recreation Area to
Mcllhattan Road without
using sidewalks or roadways, if possible.
. Mr. Lee stated that the Board has also considered who should be responsible for
building the trail.
He recognized that the trail improvements will be expensive; and they
actually represent a community enhancement.
On that basis, the Board feels it would be
appropriate for the community to fund the improvements, not through City
coffers, but through
other sources of funding. He encouraged the Commission to approve a condition
pertaining to
the trail that is flexible enough to allow the Board and the Committee
to continue to work with
Mr. Easton to develop a trail alignment that is acceptable to everyone.
Responding to Mayor Stueck, the Commissioners concurred that a waiver of
right to
protest the creation of an SID/RID for improvements to the bridge on Story
Mill Road should
be added to the conditions of approval.
They also concurred that Condition Nos. 16 and 31
could be combined.
. Mayor Stueck then asked for Commissioner comments regarding looping of
the water
main.
Commissioner Frost stated
support for the condition as
written; however, if
necessary, he could support the Mayor's proposal that looping be delayed
with the applicant
bearing the costs of flushing in the meantime.
Commissioner Youngman recognized the compelling public safety reasons for
requiring
looping of the water main.
She noted that looping of the water main back to Phase I seems
unnecessarily complicated.
Commissioner Rudberg stated she feels it would be inappropriate to install
the water
main across the golf course; however, it is a long loop through Phase III.
She then asked who
. would be responsible for paying any costs associated with problems that
might be incurred as
a result of the dead-end line.
Commissioner Stiff stated it is tough to deal with a dead-end line for
an extended
period of time.
He recognized the difficulty of looping the water main given the uncertainties
about the profile of the Story Mill Road improvements.
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Mayor
Stueck expressed his uncertainty about how to address the looping of the
water main, particularly in light of the road improvements.
Mr. Easton
stated he anticipates that development in Phase III will begin within three
years if the market remains approximately the same.
He recognized that if the water main
. looping is not completed immediately, a financial guarantee will be required.
City
Manager Wysocki suggested that the ,Commission delay its decision until April
15, in light of the concerns which have been raised.
It was
moved by Commissioner Frost, seconded by Commissioner Youngman, that
the Commission table action on this preliminary plat to the April 15 meeting.
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.
Award bid ~ expansion at Swim Center ~ Rodnev Hobaugh Construction. Bozeman.
Montana ~
base bid of $406.378.00
. City
Manager Wysocki reminded the Commission that this item had been removed
from the Consent Items for discussion.
He noted that, included in the packets was a letter
from Mr. Cliff Chisholm, architect, dated March 27, analyzing the bids
received. He briefly
summarized the contents of that letter, and forwarded his recommendation
that the bid for the
base plus Alternate NO.1 be awarded to the low bidder.
Commissioner
Rudberg stated that, particularly since the costs of this project have
risen from an estimate of $250,000 to $410,000, she feels the Commission
needs more time
to analyze the information.
Responding
to concerns expressed by the City Manager about delaying the decision
for two weeks, the Mayor noted that a special meeting could be called as
a part of next week's
meeting if determined necessary.
. It was
moved by Commissioner Rudberg, seconded by Commissioner Stiff, that action
on this item be tabled, with discussion to be placed on next week's work
session and a
decision on the April 15 agenda. 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.
04~O1-96
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Ordinance No. 1420 - adding Chapter 9.93 of the Bozeman Municipal Code,
prohibitina the
carryina of weapons in City-owned buildings and property
Distributed
to the Commissioners were copies of Ordinance No. 1420, as approved
by the City Attorney, entitled:
ORDINANCE NO. 1420
. AN ORDINANCE
OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF BOZEMAN,
MONTANA, PROVIDING THAT THE BOZEMAN MUNICIPAL
CODE BE
AMENDED
BY ADDING A NEW CHAPTER TO BE NUMBERED AS 9.93,
AND ENTITLED
"WEAPONS IN PUBLIC BUilDINGS AND PROPERTY",
PROHIBITING
THE CARRYING
OF WEAPONS IN All CITY-OWNED
BUilDINGS
AND PROPERTY.
Mayor
Stueck noted that the Commissioners have received two letters regarding this
issue.
He noted that one issue which has been raised is the fact that vehicles with hunting
rifles in the gun rack would not be allowed on City property under this
ordinance as proposed;
and a similar problem exists with the County's ordinance.
City
Attorney Luwe stated that the Commission may revise the ordinance to allow for
an exception if they so desire.
Responding
to concerns raised by Mayor Stueck about the draft ordinance which was
. included in the Commissioners' packets, City Attorney Luwe stated that was the ordinance
prepared by County Attorney Salvagni for County Commission action.
He characterized the
City's ordinance as being very similar, only pertaining to the City's property.
He noted that
weapons are already banned from City parks under another section of the
code; however, he
felt it was important to include them in this ordinance as well, to ensure
that people are aware
of the prohibition.
Mr. John
Weigand, 2671 Kid Curry Drive, stated he has been a resident of Montana
since 1966, living in Belgrade and rural Bozeman since 1974.
He serves on the Board of
Directors of a state-wide organization that supports the Second Amendment
right to own,
possess and bear firearms. He noted that many of the members collect weapons
for historic,
. recreational or investment purposes.
Mr. Weigand expressed concern that the proposed
ordinance is too broad and would
negatively impact a significant number of taxpayers. He noted that the
gun shows and safety
training classes which are held at the Fairgrounds attract a significant
number of people; and
the gun show is one of the largest income producers housed at the Fairgrounds.
He stated
those gun shows are very closely monitored to ensure that no weapons are
loaded; and failure
04-01-96
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to comply with the regulations results in expulsion of the individual.
He cautioned that under
the ordinance, as proposed, these activities would no longer be allowed.
He further noted that
hunter safety classes would also be in jeopardy.
Mr. Weigand stated that he feels a weapons ban might be appropriate where
the court
. system is housed; however,
he feels that the broad
ban being considered could
be
He then encouraged the Commission to accept more public input before
counterprod uctive.
acting on the proposed ordinance.
Responding to Commissioner Frost, Mr. Weigand stated that people are not
allowed
to have loaded guns at gun shows because they tend to be congested; and
organizers wish to
avoid potential problems.
City Attorney Luwe stated that this ordinance does not prohibit displays
or gun shows
in either City buildings or parks.
Commissioner Frost noted that the purpose of the ordinance is to protect
the health
and safety of City employees and the public.
He recognized that this is Montana and that
people like to hunt; and he feels it would be appropriate to exempt hunting
rifles in locked
. vehicles on public property.
He noted that the definition of "weapon" includes knives with
blades over four inches; and that type of knife is often carried by both
hunters and contractors.
He indicated that Commissioners need an opportunity to review the ordinance
closely before
acting on it.
Commissioner Youngman stated she feels that adopting some version of the
ordinance
to protect employees and the public is appropriate. She noted that, during
the brief time she
has had to review the ordinance, she has found some items that need revision;
and she
recognized that the ordinance can either be provisionally adopted now and
then revised prior
to final adoption, or the Commission could delay adoption until after it
has had an opportunity
to more closely review and revise it.
. Commissioner Rudberg expressed concern over the enforceability of this
type of
ordinance.
She also questioned whether the Commission is overacting to recent incidents,
particularly in the Jordan area. She stressed her interest in protecting
the employees; however,
she feels
it would be appropriate to delay adoption of this
ordinance until after the
Commissioners have had an opportunity to review it and accept public comment.
04-01-96
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Commissioner Stiff stated he has not had an opportunity to review the ordinance
since the Commissioners received it just prior to the meeting; and he wants
the opportunity to
do so before acting on it.
Mayor Stueck stated he shares Commissioner Frost's concerns about the fact
that
. this ordinance prohibits a gun in a locked vehicle in a parking lot for a City-owned building. He
recognized that if this issue could be addressed through an exemption,
then some of his major
objections would be alleviated.
City Attorney Luwe stated that he can address the concerns which have been
raised
through amendments to the ordinance.
It was moved by Commissioner Youngman, seconded by Commissioner Rudberg,
that
the Commission table action on this ordinance until the April 15 meeting.
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.
. Approval of loan from CDSG
Revolving loan Fund monies. per recommendation from
Community Affordable HousinQ Advisory Board
City Manager Wysocki reminded the Commission that these items had originally
been
listed under Consent Items but had been removed for discussion.
Included in the Commissioners' packets was information pertaining to both
this
agenda item and the following agenda item.
Ms. Caren Couch, contracted staff person for the Community Affordable Housing
Advisory Board, stated that the Board received two requests for funding;
and the Board has
recommended approval of both. She briefly highlighted the Board's recommendations,
which
include a loan to Reach, Inc., in the amount of $50,000, at no interest
for twenty years, for
a new home for low-income disabled persons; and a loan to Interfaith, in
the amount of
. $25,000, at no interest for thirty years, to help fund purchase of 1.5
acres upon which to
construct 12 apartment units for low and very low-income persons. She stated
that additional
funding sources for these projects could include CDBG and HOME grants for
the Interfaith
project and a County-sponsored lOR bond for the Reach project.
04-01-96
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Mr. Rob Tallon, Director of Reach, Inc., stated that Reach has been assisting disabled
individuals for the past 22 years. He noted that the house at 308 South
13th Avenue is in
need of costly repairs, including addressing many code problems and accessibility issues. He
stated that, rather than trying to upgrade the house, they have decided it would be better to
. sell the existing home and construct a new home. He stated that they purchased property in
Valley Creek Subdivision two years ago and, since that time, have tried unsuccessfully to get
CDSG funds to assist in construction of the home. He noted that
they are now pursuing the
issuance of lOR bonds through the County.
Mr. Tallon estimated that the entire project will cost $458,000; and Reach will spend
$200,000 of its own money while borrowing the remainder. He stated that, through borrowing
$50,000 at 0 percent from the CDSG Revolving Loan Fund, they will save an anticipated
$50,000 in interest over the course of the project.
Commissioner Stiff stated that, because of concerns he encountered after reviewing
the plans and the costs, he contacted Mr. Tallon this morning with several questions. He noted
that, based on a 3,889-square-foot building at $75 per square foot, the costs do not calculate
. to the total projected for the project.
Mr. Tallon responded by roughly estimating the costs involved, which include
contingency, architectural services and landscaping. He stated that, given the size of the lot
and the landscaping requirements within this subdivision, the landscaping costs will be quite
high.
Commissioner Stiff expressed concern about loaning these monies at no interest,
noting that when the City does so, it actually decreases the amount available for future loans.
He suggested, rather, than a nominal interest rate should be charged whenever possible to
protect this source of funding.
Mr. Tallon recognized that the Commission must make the final decision; and then he
must calculate the impacts of that decision to determine whether it is beneficial for his
. organization to accept the terms. He noted that if interest is charged, the benefit of borrowing
these monies is decreased accordingly.
Responding to Commissioner Rudberg, Mr. Tallon stated that there are eight clients
living in the house on South 13th Avenue; and the new home will be constructed to
04-01-96
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accommodate eight clients.
He noted that, while it is anticipated all of the residents will
relocate, there is not guarantee that will occur.
Rev.
Glover Wagner, President of Interfaith Housing II, forwarded their proposal. He
stated that the Community Affordable Housing Advisory Board has recommended
approval of
. a $25,000 loan at 0 percent interest to help fund acquisition of a 1.5-acre parcel of land on
which 12 units of low-income housing and a 20-unit head trauma facility
are to be constructed.
He noted that four units of the housing are to be made available to those
who are ready to
move from the head trauma center, if housing units are open.
Rev.
Wagner stated that the purchase price of the land is $125,000; therefore,
$100,000 would need to be raised by the churches involved if this loan
is approved. He noted
that they have a balance of $17,000 in the accounts for both housing projects;
and they have
applied to United Way for financial assistance.
He stated that Interfaith must commit to
purchasing the land by September; however, the success of applications
for CDBG and HOME
monies will not yet be known.
Rev.
John Plummer, member of the Board, stated that the first step in Interfaith
. Housing II is to acquire the land, after which they will proceed with obtaining
City approval for
the structures. He noted that the commitment to purchase the land must
be made by the end
of September; however, closing on it will not occur until sometime between
October 1 and
December 31 .
He recognized that, because of this timing, they will not know if the land will
be acquired by the September 16 deadline for submittal of the grant application
to the State.
He then indicated that preliminary discussions with representatives at
the State Department of
Commerce about this project have been positive; and those individuals are
eager to see the
grant application.
Mr. Rob
Burda, architect working on the Interfaith II housing project, showed the
Commission a small scale conceptual drawing of the proposed development.
He stated that
. a head trauma unit is proposed on one end of the site, with a large landscaped
area and parking
lot in the center and 12 units of low-income housing units on the other end of the site.
Responding
to questions from Commissioner Stiff, Rev. Plummer stated that under
this proposal, Interfaith will purchase the 1 % acres of land if it can
successfully raise the
monies.
He stated that the head trauma center would be constructed by a separate
corporation; and that corporation would reimburse Interfaith for a proportionate
share of the
04-01-96
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land costs. He stressed the importance of recognizing that the head
trauma center and the
low-income housing units are two separate uses proposed for the same parcel of land. He also
noted that those who are ready to move from the head trauma center must compete, on equal
footing, with others for the rental units available. He indicated that four of the housing units
. are to be handicapped accessible; and those are probably the units for which the head trauma
patients would compete.
Commissioner Stiff reiterated his concern about loaning monies from this
fund with
no interest because of the negative impact it has on the future use of the fund. He noted that
after these two applications are funded, there will be no monies remaining in this fund until
repayments generate a new balance with which to work. He suggested that a low interest rate
that equals the inflationary rate would help to maintain the integrity of the fund and should not
negatively impact any application to the point that it becomes not viable.
Rev. John Plummer stated a willingness to accept a 4-percent interest rate
on the
$25,000 loan.
Commissioner Stiff also expressed concern about the 30-year payback on
this loan,
. particularly since it is for only $25,000.
Rev. Plummer concurred that a 30-year payback seems long and noted that
a 20-year
payback could be accommodated within their cash flow.
Mayor Stueck thanked Interfaith for their efforts, noting that they and
Habitat for
Humanity have taken an active role in attempting to address the low-income housing needs of
the community.
Responding to Commissioner Rudberg, Assistant Planning Director Arkell
stated that
when the City sponsors a CDBG application for a specific project, it may choose whether to
grant or loan those monies to the applicant. She noted
that the City has granted the monies
from the last several applications; therefore, the Revolving Loan Fund has not continued to
build. She recognized that the City will probably not obtain the same type
of grant that has
. been used to create the Revolving Loan Fund because owner-occupied rehabilitation projects
are minimal at this time; however, that possibility does exist.
Responding to questions from Commissioner Rudberg, Commissioner Stiff stated
that
Assistant Finance Director Peg Biekert is preparing information on the flow of repayments into
the Revolving Loan Fund; and it should be available in the near future.
04-01-96
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Commissioner
Stiff stated appreciation for Interfaith's willingness to accept a 4-
percent interest rate.
It was
moved by Commissioner Frost, seconded by Commissioner Youngman, that
the Commission approve a $50,000 loan from the Community Development Block
Grant
. Revolving Loan Fund to Reach, Inc., at no interest for a period of twenty years, as
recommended by the Community Affordable Housing Advisory Board. 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.
Approval of loan from CDBG Revolving Loan Fund monies. per recommendation
from
Community Affordable HousinQ Advisorv Board
City
Manager Wysocki noted that this item was discussed in the previous agenda
item.
It was
moved by Commissioner Youngman, seconded by Commissioner Frost, that
. the Commission approve a $25,000 loan from the Community Development Block
Grant
Revolving Loan Fund to Interfaith Housing II, at no interest for a period of twenty years, as
recommended by the Community Affordable Housing Advisory Board. The motion
failed by the
following
Aye and No
vote: those voting Aye being
Commissioner Youngman and
Commissioner Frost; those voting No being Commissioner Stiff, Commissioner
Rudberg and
Mayor Stueck.
It was
moved by Commissioner Stiff, seconded by Commissioner Rudberg, that the
Commission approve a $25,000 loan from the Community Development Block
Grant Revolving
Loan Fund to Interfaith Housing II, at 4 percent interest for a period
of twenty years. The
motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being
Commissioner Stiff,
Commissioner Rudberg, Commissioner Youngman, Commissioner Frost and Mayor
Stueck;
. those voting No, none.
Recess ~ 5:55 p.m.
Mayor
Stueck declared a recess at 5:55 p.m., to reconvene at 7:00 p.m., for the
purpose of conducting the scheduled public hearings and completing the
routine business items.
04-01-96
~ 20 -
Reconvene - 7:00 p.m.
Mayor Stueck reconvened the meeting at 7:00 p.m., for the purpose of conducting
the scheduled public hearings and completing the routine business items.
. Public hearina - application for tax reduction for expandina industrv. pursuant to Section
15-24-1402. M.C.A.. and Commission Resolution No. 2660 - Color World of Montana, Inc.
This was the time and place set for the public hearing on the application for tax
reduction for expanding industry, as requested by Color World of Montana, Inc., and as set
under Commission Resolution No. 3106, as approved by the City Attorney, entitled:
COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 3106
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF BOZEMAN.
MONTANA. ESTABLISHING A PUBLIC HEARING TO HEAR PUBLIC
COMMENT ON THE APPLICATION OF COLOR WORLD OF MONTANA FOR
TAX REDUCTION UNDER SECTION 15-24-1401. ET SED, MONTANA
CODE ANNOTATED AND CITY OF BOZEMAN COMMISSION RESOLUTION
NO. 2660.
Mayor Stueck opened the public hearing.
Commissioner Youngman announced that she will abstain from participating in
. discussion and voting on this agenda item to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest.
Mr. Mike Burgard, Vice President, Finance for Color World, stated that his letter dated
January 18, 1996, which was submitted with the application form, provides all of the
information regarding this request. He then indicated a willingness to respond to questions.
Mr. Bob Graff, President of Artcraft Printers, Inc., briefly highlighted the contents of
his letter dated April 1 , a copy of which has been distributed to the Commission. He noted that
Color World previously applied for, and received, a tax reduction with no demonstration of
public benefit. He noted that Color World is now seeking a tax reduction on equipment which
it has had in place for approximately a year, and which is the standard type of electronic
equipment that all commercial printers in Montana use.
Mr. Graff stated that he has monitored applications for tax reductions throughout the
. State; and many of those applications have been denied because the applicant could not
demonstrate positive results, such as increased employment. He noted that in this instance,
the only benefit seems to be to the applicant; and encouraged the Commission to deny the
application.
04-01-96
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-
Responding to Commissioner Rudberg, Mr. Burgard stated the copy of the
news
article attached to Mr. Graff's letter pertains to a contract which Color
World received after its
last tax abatement was approved.
He stated that the life span of a computerized system is
three to five years; and under this application, the old computerized equipment
which was
. purchased six years ago is being replaced by more modern hardware and software.
Mayor Stueck noted that the only other application for tax reduction upon
which he
has acted involved a business with no similar businesses in this area.
He noted the issue of
unfair advantage has been raised in this instance; however, he noted that
this program is
available to anyone who wishes to take advantage of it.
Mayor Stueck closed the public hearing.
It was moved by Commissioner Rudberg, seconded by Commissioner Stiff, that
the
Commission approve the requested tax reduction. The motion carried by the
following Aye and
No vote: those voting Aye being Commissioner Rudberg, Commissioner Stiff,
Commissioner
Frost and Mayor Stueck; those voting No, none.
Commissioner Youngman abstained.
City Attorney Luwe announced that staff will bring back a resolution as
soon as
. possible to complete this process.
Continued Dublic hearina - Master Plan Amendment - chanae land use desiQnation
from Rural
Residential Node to Business Park/Industrial - Holly Brown for Jack & Vanessa
Germeroth and
James & Doris Ferguson ~ 17.38 acres located in Section 17 , T2S, R5E,
MPM (5391 & 5393
Gooch Hill Road and 8474 Huffine Lane) (P-9550)
This was the time and place set for the continued public hearing on the
Master Plan
Amendment requested by Holly Brown for Jack & Vanessa Germeroth and James
& Doris
Ferguson, under Application No. P-9550, to change the land use designation
from Rural
Residential Node to Business Park/Industrial on 17.38 acres located in
Section 17, Township
2 South, Range 5 East, Montana Principal Meridian. The subject property
is more commonly
located at 5391 and 5393 Gooch Hill Road and 8474 Huffine Lane.
. Mayor Stueck opened the pUblic hearing.
City Manager Wysocki entered into the record a letter from Holly Brown,
attorney
representing the applicants, to Associate Planner Dean Patterson, dated
March 7, 1996,
withdrawing this application for Master Plan Amendment.
04-01-96
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It was moved by Commissioner Stiff, seconded by Commissioner Frost, that
the
Commission acknowledge receipt of the letter of withdrawal.
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.
. Continued public hearing - Zone Map Amend ment - "AS" to "M-1" - Hollv Brown for Jack &
Vanessa Germeroth and James & Doris Ferguson - 17.38 acres located in Section 17 , T2S,
R5E, MPM (5391 & 5393 Gooch Hill Road and 8474 Huffine lane) (Z-95151)
This was the time and place set for the continued public hearing on Zone
Map
Amendment requested by Holly Brown for Jack & Vanessa Germeroth and James & Doris
Ferguson, under Application No. Z-95151, to change the zoning designation from "AS",
Agricultural--Suburban, to "M-1", Light Manufacturing, on 17.38 acres located in Section 17,
Township 2 South, Range 5 East, Montana Principal Meridian. The subject property is more
commonly located at 5391 and 5393 Gooch Hill Road and 8474 Huffine Lane.
Mayor Stueck opened the public hearing.
City Manager Wysocki entered into the record a letter from Holly Brown,
attorney
. representing the applicants, to Associate Planner Dean Patterson, dated March 7, 1996,
withdrawing this application for Zone Map Amendment.
It was moved by Commissioner Frost seconded by Commissioner Youngman, that
the Commission acknowledge receipt of the letter of withdrawal. 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.
Public hearing - proposed Ordinance No. 1419 - establishing six-month moratorium on
applications for conditional use permits for casinos
Included in the Commissioners' packets was a copy of proposed Ordinance
No. 1419,
. entitled:
ORDINANCE NO. 1419
AN EMERGENCY
INTERIM ZONING
ORDINANCE OF THE
CITY
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF BOZEMAN, MONTANA, PROVIDING FOR
A SIX-MONTH MORATORIUM ON SUBMISSION AND APPROVAL OF
CONDITIONAL USE PERMITS FOR CASINOS WITHIN THE CITY LIMITS
AND WITHIN ONE (1) MILE BEYOND THE CORPORATE BOUNDARIES OF
THE CITY
DUE TO
THE PROllFERA TION OF
SUBMISSION OF
04-01-96
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- 23 -
CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT APPLICATIONS
FOR CASINOS UNDER
INADEQUATE ZONING PROVISIONS.
Mayor Stueck opened the public hearing.
Ms. Debbie Bjelland, 3009 Secor Avenue, stated the increase in gambling
casinos and
activities is staggering and, unfortunately, the increase in compulsive gambling is equally
. staggering. She confessed that she is a compulsive gambler, from a middle class family and
with a college education, who has lost her family to this addiction.
She noted that local
governments receive a significant amount of revenue from this source; and they should set
aside some of those funds to assist those who require treatment and counseling.
Ms. Bjelland encouraged the Commission to approve this moratorium, limiting
the
places where gambling is available as much as possible.
She also suggested that the casino
owners should take some responsibility, monitoring those who are compulsive gamblers.
Ms. Sandra Smiley, 618 South 14th Avenue, stated that as a social worker
for over
twenty years, she has worked with those addicted to gambling. She noted that many people
gamble away all of their resources, including social security and vocational rehabilitation
. checks; and she has recently seen the developmentally disabled fall into the same trap.
She
encouraged the Commissioners to adopt this ordinance, establishing a moratorium.
Mr. Jim Livermore, 305 Eighth Street, Belgrade, stated that men encounter
problems
with gambling addictions, too. He noted that he is actively
involved in the gamblers
anonymous program in Bozeman, which started its operation in November.
At the present
time, ten to twelve people attend on a regular basis; and he characterized that as the tip of the
iceberg. He stated that gambling and alcohol had controlled his life, leading to a divorce. He
concluded by encouraging the Commission to approve the moratorium.
City Manager Wysocki entered into the record a letter of support from Mr.
Don
Bachman, 109 North Broadway Avenue, dated March 25, 1996.
No one was present to speak in opposition to the proposed moratorium.
. Since there were no Commissioner objections, Mayor Stueck closed the public
hearing.
Commissioner Rudberg stated she has received more input on this issue than
any
other. She emphasized the importance of recognizing that she is not addressing this as social
behavior; rather, she feels it is time to review the zone code in a comprehensive manner to see
04-01-96
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if it needs to be revised prior to acting on more applications for casinos.
She suggested that,
to accomplish this, it might be beneficial to appoint a task force to look at all relevant issues.
Commissioner Stiff stated concurrence with Commissioner Rudberg's comments.
Responding to
Commissioner Youngman, City Attorney
Luwe stated that
an
. emergency interim zoning ordinance may not be for a period longer than six months. He noted
that if the Commission needs more time to complete the zone code review and amendment
process, it may enact an ordinance through the normal procedures to provide the additional
time needed.
Commissioner Youngman indicated she is supportive of the moratorium.
City Attorney Luwe cautioned the Commission that it is very limited on
how it can
limit casinos. He noted that they may not be prohibited within city limits, although they could
be limited to certain areas. He also noted that the Commission
may not limit the form of
gambling.
There were no Commissioner objections to waiving the customary one-week
waiting
period for land use decisions, so the Commission proceeded to the motion and vote.
. It was moved by Commissioner Stiff, seconded by Commissioner Frost, that
the
Commission adopt Ordinance No. 1419, an emergency interim zoning ordinance providing for
a six-month moratorium on applications for conditional use permits for casinos.
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.
Public hearinQ - appeal of City-County Planning Board decision on maior site application to allow
construction of 37 .90 1-sQuare-foot, 69-unit Hampton Inn Motel - Carl Tanae, Jr., (Z-95133)
This was the time and place set for the public hearing on the appeal of the City-
County Planning Board decision on the major site plan application, as requested by Carl Tange.
. Jr., under Application No. Z-95133, to allow construction of a 37 ,901 ~square-foot, 69-unit
Hampton Inn Motel on Block 3, Tange's Addition.
The subject property is more commonly
located at 75 Baxter Lane.
Mayor Stueck opened the appellate hearing, and reviewed the process for this type
of hearing.
04~01-96
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Assistant Planning Director Debbie Arkell presented the staff report. She
stated that
on September 26, 1995, Mr. Tange made application for the subject motel.
She noted that this
application included the creation of an artificial lot just large enough
to accommodate the
proposed motel plus required parking spaces and landscaping. The remainder
of the twenty-
. acre parcel will remain in open space at the present time. She noted stated that no traffic
analysis on the impacts to the intersection of North 7th Avenue and Baxter
Lane was included
in that application, although it was one of the items identified during
a pre-application review.
She noted that a traffic analysis was subsequently prepared by Morrison-Maierle
and was
submitted on January 19, 1996.
The review process began shortly thereafter and, following
its public hearing on March 5, the Planning Board approved the application,
subject to 22
conditions. She stated that at that time, Mr. Tange was informed of the
appeal process; and
on March 8, he filed the documented appeal.
Assistant Planning Director Arkell reviewed the four items being appealed,
which are
as follows:
1 . Condition
No. 17. This condition requires the water main
. extension
be adequately looped with the City's water system; the
applicant proposes to construct an approximate
1,1 OO-foot-Iong
dead-end water line to the site.
2. Condition
No. 15. This condition requires all public infrastructure
improvements
be substantially complete before a building permit
is issued;
the applicant proposes to begin construction of the
motel
when final design of the water and sewer systems is
complete,
thus construction of both the infrastructure and motel
would
be done at the same time.
3. Waiver
of the impact fees. This item is not the subject of any
conditions
attached to
the Planning Board's
approval and,
therefore,
cannot appropriately be considered. Further, appeal of
impact
fees is subject to a different hearing process under a
different
section of the Bozeman Municipal Code.
4. Condition
No.8. This condition requires that the applicant submit
a specific
plan to eliminate left-turn movements onto North 7th
Avenue
from Baxter Lane and if, six months after installation of
traffic
signal lights at the 1-90 on and off ramps and construction
of West
Oak Street between North 7th Avenue and North 19th
. Avenue,
the Montana Department of Transportation determines
the improvements are needed, the applicant
is to install the
improvements.
The applicant does not believe that he should be
required
to install the improvements since the problems already
exist
and the new motel has not yet been constructed.
The Assistant Planning Director stated that the water main in Baxter Lane
currently
ends at the Holiday Inn and, under the conditions, the applicant would
be required to extend
04-01-96
- 26 -
the water main from there to the subject location and then south to the
new water main in
West Oak Street.
She stated that the estimated cost to extend the water main from the
Holiday Inn to the new Hampton Inn site is $35,000; and to loop the line
back to West Oak
Street is an additional $80,500. She noted that the installation of infrastructure
improvements
. is required prior to issuance of a building permit to ensure that utilities are extended to the
building prior to its occupancy. She also emphasized the importance of
water for fire protection
during
construction. The Assistant
Planning Director
briefly reviewed the proposed
improvements to be made to the intersection of North 7th Avenue and Baxter
Lane, if those
improvements are determined necessary. She noted that it involves the installation
of a curb
extension from the median, in what is referred to as a "t-bone", which
allows for left turns from
North 7th Avenue onto Baxter Lane but precludes left turns from Baxter
Lane onto North 7th
Avenue.
Assistant
Planning Director Arkell reminded the Commissioners that they may consider
only the public record from the public hearing before the City-County Planning
Board and any
evidence relevant to the grounds of appeal.
She noted that once this hearing is closed, the
. Commission must either uphold, overturn or modify the decision of the City~County
Planning
Board.
Mr. Carl
Tange, applicant, stated he is attempting to develop a portion of the property
which he has owned for over forty years.
He stated that he ran a resort in California for over
25 years; and that included operating a water system, sewer system, roads
and security people
for a community of as many as 6,000 people.
He stated that the water system was not
looped; and the samples were taken every week to ensure the quality of
the water. He stated
that problems with degradation were not encountered except when the campground
was not
being used.
He forwarded his support for the policy that the water system be looped, noting
it is a good basic policy.
He suggested, however, that when the looping places an undue
. hardship on the property owners and when it is evident that construction
in the area will result
in extension of the water mains within the next few years, there should be a mechanism for
delaying the requirement for looping.
Mr. Tange
briefly addressed the elimination of left turns from Baxter Lane onto North
7th Avenue.
He recognized that the proposed improvements are not very costly. He stated,
however, that he does not believe he should be required to bear the entire
cost of those
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improvements since the intersection is already operating at an unacceptable
level of service,
without the construction of the Hampton Inn.
Mr. Tange forwarded his proposal that the building permit be issued when
the plans
for the water and sewer service extensions have been approved.
He noted that this would
. allow for construction of the water and sewer extensions and the building to begin at the same
time, thus shortening the construction time. He noted that if the water
and sewer
improvements are to be installed before the building permit is issued,
it will be another whole
year before the motel is in operation.
No one from the public was present to speak.
Since there were no Commissioner objections, Mayor Stueck closed the appellate
hearing.
Responding to Commissioner Rudberg, Mr. Tange stated that his $80,000 estimate
for looping of the water main from the subject site to West Oak Street
is based on the figures
contained in the report from Morrison-Maierle for an 8-inch water main.
Responding to Mayor Stueck, Director of Public Service Forbes stated the
minutes
. from the latest Transportation Commission meeting reflect that the installation
of traffic signals
at the on ramp and off ramp are included on the May letting list.
Mayor Stueck stated he agrees with the appellant on the issue of installing
a traffic
control device at the intersection of North 7th Avenue and Baxter Lane
to eliminate left turns;
rather, he feels the Montana Department of Transportation should address
the issue. He noted
that earlier today, the Commission concurred that another project should
be required to loop
its water system, at a substantially longer length than is involved in
this application. He further
noted that if the applicant installs the looped line at this time, he can
seek a provision for
pay backs from anyone who connects to that line in the future and thus
recoup some of those
costs. He noted that requiring the installation of water and sewer services
prior to construction
. of the building is a standard requirement.
He indicated a willingness to consider allowing
construction of the building to begin sooner, possibly when the water and sewer lines are 50
percent installed. He suggested that under that scenario, the water and
sewer lines should be
complete one or two months before the building is.
He recognized that the waiver of impact
fees is not appropriately addressed at this time.
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Commissioner Frost stated he feels the water line should be looped.
He recognized
that a compromise could possibly be reached on when construction of the
building may begin
in relationship to the installation of water and sewer lines; however,
he recognizes that the
water service should
be available for fire protection during a majority of the building
. construction. He then indicated support for Mayor Stueck's position on the intersection of
North 7th Avenue and Baxter Lane.
Responding to Commissioner Frost, Director of Public Service Forbes stated
that, in
practice, a water service is considered substantially complete when it
is charged, holds
pressure and has passed the tests.
He noted that a sewer service is considered substantially
complete when it has passed all of the drainage tests.
Commissioner Youngman recognized that problems already exist at the intersection
of North 7th Avenue and Baxter Lane. She noted, however, that the addition
of another motel
will make the situation even worse and the applicant should, therefore,
bear a proportionate
share of the costs. She indicated concurrence with the other Commissioners
on the remaining
items.
. Commissioner Rudberg stated her support for looping of the water main and
requiring
that the water and sewer services be substantially complete before construction
of the building
begins. She noted that the applicant should not be required to install
the improvements at the
intersection; however, she suggested that if he is required to participate,
then the other
businesses in that immediate area should also be required to do so.
Commissioner Stiff stated he supports looping of the water main and installation
of
the water and sewer lines before construction begins.
He then indicated that the applicant
should be required to bear a portion of the costs for installing improvements
at the intersection
of North 7th Avenue and Baxter Lane, but not all of the costs.
Responding to comments from the Commission, Assistant Planning Director
Arkell
. stated that the traffic report suggests that the Hampton Inn should increase
the traffic on
Baxter Lane by approximately 10 percent.
There were no Commissioner objections to waiving the customary one-week
waiting
period for land use decisions, so the Commission proceeded to the motion
and vote.
It was moved by Commissioner Frost, seconded by Commissioner Youngman,
that
the Commission modify the City-County Planning Board's decision on the
major site plan
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application, as requested by Carl Tange, Jr., under Application No. Z-95133,
to allow
construction of a 37,901-square foot, 69-unit Hampton Inn Hotel on Block
3, Tange's Addition,
by amending Condition NO.8 to read as follows:
As the Montana Department of Transportation agrees with the findings of
the applicant's traffic study that the elimination of left-turning movements
. onto North 7th Avenue will allow the intersection of North 7th Avenue and
Baxter Lane to function at an acceptable Level of Service, the applicant
shall submit a specific plan to the Montana Department of Transportation
and the City of Bozeman depicting how the findings are to be implemented.
A minimum
Level of Service of "C" must
be provided. The final
implementation plan is subject to the review and approval of the Montana
Department of Transportation and the City of Bozeman, and must be
obtained prior to final site plan approval.
The construction of the
intersection improvements shall be delayed until six months following the
completion of the installation of traffic signal lights at the 1-90 on
and off
ramps on North 7th Avenue and the construction of West Oak Street from
North 19th Avenue to North 7th Avenue. If the Director of Public Service
of the City of Bozeman and the Montana Department of Transportation
determine at that time that the above-required improvements to the
intersection of North 7th Avenue and Baxter Lane are not needed, this
condition will be waived.
If it is determined that the improvement to the
intersection is necessary to obtain a Level of Service "C", then the
previously-approved improvements will be constructed within a reasonable
time.
The applicant shall bear ten percent (10%) of the costs of those
improvements.
. 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.
Ordinance No. 1418 - revisinQ Chapter 3.24 of the Bozeman Municipal Code.
re impact fees
Included in the Commissioners' packets was a copy of Ordinance No. 1418,
as
approved by the City Attorney, entitled:
ORDINANCE NO. 1418
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF BOZEMAN.
MONTANA, PROVIDING THAT THE BOZEMAN MUNICIPAL CODE, AS
AMENDED BY ORDINANCE NO.
1414, WHICH ORDINANCE IS NOT
CURRENTLY
CODIFIED IN THE
BOZEMAN MUNICIPAL
CODE, BE
AMENDED BY REVISING
SECTIONS 3.24.010. 3.24.040,
3.24.050,
3.24.060. 3.24.070. 3.24.080, 3.24.090, 3.24.100 AND 3.24.110;
. PROVIDING
FOR REVISIONS TO
DEFINITIONS;
REVISIONS TO
EXEMPTIONS TO STREET IMPACT FEES, FIRE PROTECTION IMPACT FEES,
WATER IMPACT FEES AND WASTEWATER IMPACT FEES; REFUNDS OF
DEVELOPMENT
FEES PAID; AND
EST ABLlSHING A
DEVELOPMENT
IMPACT FEES REVIEW COMMITTEE.
Mayor Stueck noted that the Commissioners did not receive the revisions
to this
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ordinance until just prior to the Commission meeting; and no Commissioner
has had a chance
to review it.
Associate
Planner Chris Saunders asked that the Commissioners address the
questions raised in Planning Director Epple's memo, which was distributed
to the Commission.
. He noted that staff is seeking clarification regarding the exemption of up to a 20~percent
expansion, or 2,000 square feet, for a non-residential building. He provided
three scenarios,
noting that they represent three different interpretations forwarded by
staff members during
development of the implementation policy.
Following discussion of those scenarios, City Manager Wysocki suggested
that the
ordinance be amended to provide for a one-time exemption to allow expansion
of up to 20
percent, or 2,000 square feet, with no impact fees assessed.
He stated that after that one-
time exemption is used, then all future expansions will be subject to impact
fees. He also
noted that if the first expansion exceeds 20 percent or 2,000 square feet,
the impact fees will
not be applied to the portion of the expansion which is eligible for exemption;
but impact fees
will be assessed on the remainder.
. Commissioner Frost stated that, as long as everyone is treated the same,
he feels the
exemption is appropriate.
Commissioner Youngman suggested that the Commission provisionally adopt
the
ordinance as it has been submitted, recognizing that the needed revisions
can be made prior
to final adoption.
It was moved by Commissioner Youngman, seconded by Commissioner Rudberg,
that
the Commission provisionally adopt Ordinance No. 1418, amending Chapter
3.24 of the
Bozeman Municipal Code, pertaining to impact fees, and that it be brought
back in two weeks
for final adoption. The
motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye
being Commissioner Youngman, Commissioner Rudberg, Commissioner Stiff,
Commissioner
. Frost and Mayor Stueck; those voting No, none.
Consent Items
City Manager Wysocki presented to the Commission the following Consent
Items.
Proclamation - "Arbor Day" - April 26. 1996
04-01-96
- 31 -
Commission Resolution No. 3110 - des!gnating Clerk of the commission as
Records
Manager for the City
COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 3110
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF BOZEMAN,
MONT ANA.
SUPPORTING THE DEVELOPMENT
OF A RECORDS
MANAGEMENT PROGRAM FOR THE CITY AND DESIGNATION A RECORDS
. MANAGER.
Authorize expenditure of $7.747.71 as partial reimbursement for costs
billed
by the State of Montana Department of Environmental
Quality
for the Bozeman Solvent Site for the period October 1.
1995
throuah December 31. 1995
Approval
of loan from
CDBG Revolvina Loan Fund
monies. per
recommendation
from Community Affordable Housina Advisory
Board
Authorize City Manager to sign - Architectural Services Agreement with
Georae
Mattson - expansion of Senior Center
Ratify Actina City Manaaer's signature - Utilities Aqreement with Montana
Department
of Transportation - West Oal< Street between North
7th Avenue
and North 19th Avenue
Award bid - Bozeman Creek Water Supply line Replacement - Johnston
Excavating.
Inc.. Bozeman. Montana - $81.650.12
e Claims
It was moved by Commissioner Rudberg, seconded by Commissioner Stiff, that the
Commission approve the Consent Items as listed, and authorize and direct
the appropriate
persons to complete the necessary actions. 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
City Manager Wysocki presented to the Commission the following
"For Your
Information" items.
(1 )
Invitation to attend a tub grinder demonstration at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday.
. April 11, at the Landfill.
(2) Letter
from the American Red Cross, dated March 1996, reviewing its
accomplishments over the past year.
(3) Letter
from Rev. Richard Crow, Temple Baptist Church, dated March 28.
04-01-96
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expressing concern about allowing dogs in the cemetery and allowing its use as a recreational
site.
(4) Copy of the press release format that will be used this summer for the
Bozeman Traffic Watch Program.
. (51 Agenda for the Development Review Committee meetin g to be held at 10:00
a.m. on Tuesday, April 2, in the Commission Room.
(6) Agenda for the County Commission meeting to be held at 1 :30 p.m. on
Tuesday, April 2, at the Courthouse.
(7) The City Manager expressed concern about all of the additional items which
the Clerk placed on the Commissioners' desks just prior to the meeting because they had
arrived after the deadline and pertained to items on today's agenda.
He noted that trying to
copy items received at the last minute places a burden on the Clerk's office.
City Attorney Luwe noted the Commission had previously agreed that items received
after public hearings have been closed are to be marked "late submittal" and are not to be
distributed until after the decision has been made. He noted, however,
that the Commission
. has not given staff direction to withhold information received between the deadline and meeting
time; therefore, staff has no authority to do so.
(8) Commissioner Frost noted that last week, the Commission received a
presentation from the Chair of the Cemetery Board, at which time allegations were made about
the balance in the Cemetery Perpetual Care Fund. He stated that a review
of the City's
financial statements for the past fifteen years showed that the monies have been appropriately
handled; that the balance in the Fund does not reflect the suggested transfers; and that the
interest from the Fund is transferred annually to the General Fund to offset the operating costs
at the Cemetery.
Commissioner Frost stated that similar comments were also made at the Study
Commission meeting. He expressed concern that this type of comments, made by someone
. who is disgruntled, are often accepted at face value rather than being challenged.
Discussion - proposed letter from Mayor to boards and commissions; revised application for
boards and commissions
Mayor Stueck noted that the draft letter and revised application form were discussed
04-01-96
- 33
-
at last week's meeting.
It was moved by Commissioner Stiff, seconded by Commissioner Frost, that the
Commission approve the draft letter from the Mayor to the boards and commissions and the
revised application for boards and commissions. The motion carried by the following Aye and
. No vote: those voting Aye being Commissioner Stiff, Commissioner Frost, Commissioner
Youngman and Mayor Stueck; those voting No being Commissioner Rudberg.
Adiournment - 8:47 p.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.
c!J~
C /3fi:-n ..,A:.
. ATTEST: DON E. STUECK, Mayor
~;/~
ROBIN L. SULLIVAN
Clerk of the Commission
.
04-01-96