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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1996-01-29 Minutes, City Commission -....-.--.- - ..--...-... .~- "' MINUTES OF THE WORK SESSION/AGENDA MEETING OF THE CITY COMMISSION BOZEMAN, MONTANA January 29, 1996 ********************** ******* . The Commission of the City of Bozeman met in work session and agenda meeting in the Commission Room, Municipal Building, January 29, 1996, at 3:00 p.m. Present were Mayor Stueck, 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. Work Session - (A) Presentation from MDoT re speed studies: (B) Presentation from Marvin & Associates re danaerous intersections: (C) Presentation from Library Board of Trustees re County contract and mill levy: and (D) Update re Certified Cities proaram ~ Gallatin Development Comoration (A) Presentation from MDoT re speed studies Included in the Commissioners' packets were copies of a memo from Donald Dusek . to Jason Giard, Montana Department of Transportation, dated September 11, 1995, regarding the speed study on South 19th Avenue; a memo from Donald Dusek to Jason Giard, Montana Department of Transportation, dated October 17, 1995, regarding the speed study on East Main Street; and a memo from Director of Public Service Phill Forbes, dated January 24, 1996, regarding a speed study on Kagy Boulevard. Mr. Donald Dusek, Supervisor of the Traffic Engineer Design Section in the Helena Office of the Montana Department of Transportation, stated his division is responsible for conducting traffic engineering investigations and making recommendations regarding speed zones. He stated that those recommendations are forwarded to the Transportation Commission for action. Mr. Dusek stated that, in addition to reviewing the information contained in the . memos which the Commission has received, he is forwarding a proposal for conducting a traffic engineering study of North 19th Avenue from Durston Road north to the new interchange. He noted that, under State law, the Montana Department of Transportation is responsible for establishing special speed zones on all federal aid roadways. Under the Montana Department of Transportation policy, the first step is to approach the governing body of any local 01-29-96 - 2 - jurisdiction in which a study has been requested or generated from within the MDoT. During this presentation, items to be addressed include how the study is to be conducted and potential results. He noted that the concurrence of local authorities is needed before the MDoT can begin an investigation; and that is the purpose of this portion of the presentation. . Mr. Dusek noted that the subject portion of North 19th Avenue was recentlv completed, along with the new interchange. Until a traffic study is conducted, the Montana Department of Transportation is unable to establish the appropriate special speed zones, thus, the standard speed zones apply. In this instance, the speed limit for that portion of the street lying within the urban district would be set at 25 miles per hour, and that portion lying outside the urban district would fall under the rural district regulations, which are "reasonable and prudent". He stated that, given the basic urban to suburban traffic flow on the roadway, the Department feels that special speed zones would be more appropriate and is, therefore, seeking the Commission's concurrence to proceed with a study. Mr. Donald Dusek stated that during the study, monitors are placed in six to eight locations along the corridor; and the data allows for development of a speed profile. The . foundation for the speed limit is based on the 85th percentile, which is statistically the safest speed at which the roadway is traveled. Other factors are then taken into consideration, including accidents over a three-year period, density of parking, turn-over in parking, pedestrian activity, bicycle activity, changes in roadway alignment, schools, pedestrian crossings and traffic control devices. He noted that what is identified as the most appropriate speed limit is then established in his division, with that information submitted to the MDoT's District Office and the local entity. The local entity has sixty days to review the information and submit written comment before the recommendation, along with any local input, is forwarded to the Transportation Commission for action. Responding to several questions from Commissioner Youngman, Mr. Dusek stated that he anticipates a transition downward in speeds closer to the city. He noted that potential . conflicts will also be identified, and warning signs posted as determined necessary. He noted that in some school zones around the state, a changeable message sign is used, with bouncing ball flashing lights to attract attention to the sign and lower speed limit. Mr. Dusek noted that Mr. Doug Bailey, Lead Designer, is responsible for conducting studies. He stated that most of the data for this subject portion of roadway was gathered 01-29-96 ~ 3 ~ before the traffic signal was installed. He indicated that during data collection, Mr. Bailey observed the significant amount of pedestrian and bicycle traffic that exists, particularly near the intersection of North 19th Avenue and Durston Road. Commissioner Youngman noted that the Commission expects the area along North . 19th Avenue to be developed rather rapidly, which will probably change traffic movement. Mr. Dusek responded that, while the proposed speed limits must be based on the engineering investigation, he will take this type of information into consideration when reviewing the current data. He also noted that if it is felt the speed limits are not appropriate, the local jurisdiction may request another study. He indicated that since his division is once again fully staffed, he anticipates a study could be completed within three to six months. Mayor Stueck reminded Mr. Dusek that West Oak Street is to be extended from North 7th Avenue to North 19th Avenue, and then further west to Rose Park within the next couple of years; and that should be taken into consideration as the speed limits are initially set. Responding to Commissioner RUdberg, Mr. Dusek stated that the data was collected while the speed limit signs were posted. He then noted that at the present time, drivers seem . to be driving the environment realistically. He indicated that speeds closer to Durston Road are typically around 35 miles per hour, increasing to 55 miles per hour between West Oak Street and the interchange, and then slowing to 50 miles per hour at the interchange. Responding to the City Manager, Mr. Dusek stated that the curves are designed for 50 to 55 miles per hour. He then responded that, even though a roadway is designed to accommodate a certain speed, speed limit signs cannot be posted based strictly on that design. He suggested that, if necessary, he could ask the legal staff at the Montana Department of Transportation to provide an interpretation of the State statutes to determine if an initial speed limit can be established on a new roadway without first conducting a speed study. City Manager Wysocki stated that authorization to proceed with the speed study will be placed on next week's agenda for action. . Mr. Don Dusek forwarded the results of the studies which have been completed. He noted that the studies on 19th Avenue, from Durston Road to Kagy Boulevard, were completed prior to completion of the North 19th Avenue corridor. He stated that it is his intention to forward staff recommendations for the entire North 19th Avenue corridor to the Transportation 01 ~29~96 -.. .-.. ~ 4 - Commission, so that the Commission may act on the special speed zones in a complete package. Mr. Dusek stated that seven to eight speed stations were set along the subject length of roadway, to gather the necessary data. That data revealed that between Durston Road and . West College Street, the speed of traffic at the 85th percentile was 35 miles per hour. He noted that an evaluation of the 80 accidents which occurred along the South 19th Avenue corridor over the past three years revealed that two-thirds of those accidents were at the major intersections. Mr. Dusek stated that, based on the results of the studies, the staff is recommending that the speed limit from Durston Road to just south of West College Street be set at 35 miles per hour; and from that point to just south of Kagy Boulevard the speed limit be set at 45 miles per hour. He forwarded his desire to evaluate the data again, viewing this segment in conjunction with the entire 19th Avenue corridor, to determine if the opening of the new roadway may impact the recommendations, prior to forwarding the information to the Transportation Commission. . Mayor Stueck expressed concern about the proposed 35-mile~per-hour speed limit on North 19th Avenue, particularly at its intersection with West Beall Street. He noted that many young people and many elderly people cross the street at that intersection because that is the location of a large apartment complex and Town and Country Warehouse Grocery. He also indicated that West Beall Street is a primary route for senior high and junior high school students who live on the west side of North 19th Avenue, as well as for children wishing to access Kirk Park. Mr. Dusek responded that the studies reveal a majority of traffic is already moving at 35 miles per hour. He then stated that he will review the statistical information to determine if any of the existing conflicts can be mitigated through possible removal of some on-street parking spaces, to ensure better visibility. . Responding to Commissioner Rudberg, Mr. Doug Bailey stated that the statistical information upon which the study is based was gathered in February 1995. Commissioner Rudberg encouraged the Montana Department of Transportation staff to gather additional data, now that the North 19th Avenue corridor is open. She also 01-29-96 . ---" ,.---..- ---------- -..-" - 5 ~ encouraged them to gather the data during nice weather, while school is in session, since that information will create a more realistic view of the typical traffic patterns in the area. Mr. Dusek stated that he will review the construction of the medians at the intersection of North 19th Avenue and West Beall Street, noting that it may be possible to . incorporate a pedestrian refuge area on those medians, so that pedestrians are required to cross only one-half of the roadway at a time. Mr. Don Dusek then forwarded the results from the East Main Street study, noting that research of the current speed zones revealed that those speed limits were not approved by the Transportation Commission. He stated that data was gathered from seven to eight stations; and the resulting information suggested that changes in speed limits would be appropriate. He forwarded those recommendations, which include setting the speed limit from Wallace Avenue to 100 feet east of Cypress Avenue at 30 miles per hour, from 100 feet east of Cypress Avenue to 375 feet east of Haggerty Lane at 40 miles per hour, and from 375 feet east of Haggerty Lane through the interchange area and raised median section to Frontage Road at 50 miles per hour. He recognized that these new speed limits will result in increased speeds . along some portions of the roadway and decreased speeds on others. Mr. Dusek stated a review of accidents over the past three years revealed that many of them were clustered at three majors intersections, including Wallace Avenue, Highland Boulevard and Broadway Avenue. He concluded by noting that the City Commission has sixty days to review this report and forward comments before the recommendations are forwarded to the Transportation Commission for final action. Director of Public Service Forbes stated that during the Summer of 1994. the City staff conducted traffic surveys on Kagy Boulevard from South 19th Avenue to Highland Boulevard. He stated those surveys revealed that, at each of the eight stations, the 85th percentile ranged between 32 miles per hour and 42 miles per hour, despite the 25-miles-per- hour posted speed limit. He suggested that, based on those survey results, it may be . appropriate to consider increasing the speed limit from 25 miles per hour to 35 miles per hour, particularly since Kagy Boulevard is identified as a peripheral arterial street. Responding to Mayor Stueck, the Director of Public Service stated that, since this roadway is a designated federal aid roadway, the Department of Transportation is responsible for setting the special speed limit. He noted that, while City staff has gathered the data, he 01-29-96 .--- - 6 - feels it is important for the MDoT to at least review and verify the statistical information prior to taking action. Mayor Stueck expressed concern about the length of time it has taken to receive the two studies submitted today by the MDoT, particularly since they were requested in 1990. . The Director of Public Service recognized the long turn~around time; however, he noted that Mr. Dusek has indicated that since his division is now fully staffed, the turn-around time should be substantially shorter. Responding to Commissioner Stiff, the Director stated that he feels the data gathered is accurate; however, he noted that City staff is not familiar with the format used by the State and no line drawings have been prepared to date. Mr. Ralph Olsen, 1605 West Kagy Boulevard, stated his opposition to the proposed increase in the speed limit. He stated that when he first moved to his residence, Kagy Boulevard was a "peaceful country road" with little traffic. The road has since been paved and "improved"; and he views it as an extremely hazardous road. He further indicated that, in his view, his property has been devalued even though its appraised value continues to increase. . Ms. Magdalena Bowen, Quist and Bowen, submitted letters from her family and the Wessel family, dated January 29, encouraging the Commission to retain the 25-miles-per-hour speed limit. (8) Presentation from Marvin & Associates re dangerous intersections Mr. Bob Marvin, Marvin & Associates, stated that he has been working on designing intersection safety improvements for twenty intersections inside city limits since 1992. He noted that since that time, the Montana Department of Transportation has not released the safety funds which were to fund a substantial percentage of the improvements; however, the City has chosen to move forward with making some of the less costly improvements on its own. He noted that the designs contained in this new report are slightly different from those . submitted in the previous report, due in large part to the newly-adopted ADA requirements for wheelchair ramps. He indicated that most of the handicap ramps which have been installed to date, particularly at the subject intersections, are acceptable. He recognized that, while it is preferable to have two ramps at each corner, because of the existing turning radii and right~ of-way available, it is not always possible to accommodate two ramps without worsening the 01-29-96 - 7 - existing traffic safety situation. On that basis, he noted that it is not uncommon to find that only one handicap ramp is incorporated into each corner of the intersection. Mr. Marvin stated that, just prior to leaving for this meeting, he received a message from the Montana Department of Transportation that three of the proposed intersection projects . are to be delayed. As a result, the MDoT has proposed the project be split into two phases, with the intersection improvements at South 19th Avenue and West Babcock Street, West College Street and South 8th Avenue, and North 7th Avenue and West Mendenhall Street being delayed to Phase II. He stated that this will allow the MDoT more time to review those plans, since some concerns have been identified. Mr. Marvin provided a brief overview of his report, noting that the new Phase I would cost a total of approximately $191,000; and the State Department of Transportation would bear $158,000 of those costs while the City would be required to contribute $33,000 toward the projects. In addition, the City Commission is being asked to allow City maintenance crews to trim trees at three of the intersections, approve additional parking restrictions as shown on the various diagrams, and approve the proposed projects. He stated that the work is to be . completed in 1996; and the Montana Department of Transportation has indicated that to meet this work schedule, the final design and bid documents must be completed by March 22. Responding to questions from Mayor Stueck, Mr. Loran Frazier, Butte District Office of MDoT, stated that if Mr. Pierre Jomini, Safety Director in the Helena office of the MDoT, receives acceptable responses to his questions within a short time period, he feels that the Phase II projects can also be constructed this summer. Responding to Commissioner Youngman, Mr. Marvin stated that the curb bulbs have been designed to address concerns raised about maintenance, particularly snow plowing. He noted that since the curb bulbs extend five or six feet into the intersection, pedestrian safety concerns are addressed because the distance to be traveled is shortened. Commissioner Frost asked if the curb bulbs along South Willson Avenue could be . added into this project; the Director of Public Service indicated it would not be appropriate to piggy-back a City project on this State-funded project. Neighborhood Coordinator/GrantspersonJames Goehrung emphasized the importance of the Commission responding to the issues raised by Mr. Marvin. He noted that in some communities, problems have been encountered when the parking restrictions were imposed; 01-29-96 ----- - - .-------- --- ---.--.--.- - 8 - and the Montana Department of Transportation is seeking assurance that the Commission will continue to support those restrictions under pressure from the community. Commissioner Youngman asked if the public will be given an opportunity to respond to these designs before the Commission acts on them. . During discussion, the Commission recognized that these projects are part of an on- going process which began in 1992, with many of them being identified in the Transportation Plan Update. They noted that all of the necessary public hearings have been held, but concurred that it would be acceptable to publish notice of the Commission's intent to act on these projects at the February 5 meeting, with any public input being received prior to Commission action. The Commission thanked Mr. Marvin for his presentation, noting that action on the proposed projects will be scheduled for February 5. (C) Presentation from library Board of Trustees re County contract and mill levy City Manager Wysocki noted that, included in the Commissioners' packets, were a . memo from Ron Farmer, Chair of the Library Board of Trustees, to the City Commission, dated January 19, 1996, and a copy of his memo to the County Commission, dated January 18, 1996. He stated that, distributed just prior to the Commission, were a memo from Library Director Steve Cottrell, dated January 26, 1996, and a copy of the resolution to be considered by the County Commission at tomorrow's public meeting. Library Director Steve Cottrell reminded the Commission that approximately a year ago, discussions about the level of County funding were begun. He expressed concern that the proposed resolution does not seem to reflect what had been agreed upon; and it was not received in time to allow for a careful review of the document prior to tomorrow's meeting of the County Commission. The Library Director stated that, under the agreement reached by the steering . committee, the Bozeman Public Library would support the proposed 5-mill ballot issue if the County continued to allocate the same prorata share of the $64,000 received from the special motor vehicle tax plus the prorata share of the monies generated by the mill levy. He noted that, based on the State Library's figures, Bozeman serves 67 percent of the rural residents in Gallatin County; therefore, it would receive 67 percent of the County's funding for libraries. 01-29-96 -.- --------- - 9 ~ The Director expressed concern that under the proposed resolution, no reference is made to the $64,000 from the motor vehicle tax; therefore, it appears that only the 5-mill levy is being considered as a funding source. Library Director Cottrell stated that under the level of County funding which the . Bozeman Public Library agreed to accept, the County would contribute 75 percent of what the City contributes toward funding of the Library's annual budget. He stated that under that level of funding, the County's contribution would be $15 per capita; and if the motor vehicle tax is dropped, the per-capita contribution drops to $12, which he finds unacceptable. Responding to Mayor Stueck, the City Manager stated that when the Legislature authorized Counties to levy up to an optional half~milllevy on motor vehicle licenses, the intent was to generate additional monies to fund District Courts. The use of those monies has been at the discretion of the County Commission; and the Gallatin County Commission has chosen to use those additional revenues to support the District Court and libraries. City Manager Wysocki expressed concern with the language of Paragraph No.3 on the first page of the proposed resolution, questioning what the estimated shortfall is, and from . what. He noted it is the City's desire to obtain additional County funding to create more equity in funding of the Library services. He also questioned what County funding may be available if the proposed 5-mill levy is not approved by the voters, since there is no indication that the 1 Y2 -mill levy would continue. Mayor Stueck expressed concern with No.7 in the proposed resolution, stating he does not feel that the County Commission should be limiting the manner in which its contributions may be used in funding of Library operations. City Manager Wysocki stated that he spoke with County Commissioner Kris Dunn earlier today to let her know about some of his concerns. The Commissioners concurred that, in light of the concerns which have been expressed, it is important that as many of them as possible attend the County Commission . meeting to support the Library Board of Trustees and Library staff. They further concurred that it would be appropriate for the Mayor to sign a letter on behalf of the Commission, forwarding many of their questions and asking for clarification of some of the language in the proposed resolution. 01-29-96 -.--.--- - 10 - Library Director Cottrell stated that the Library Board has identified how the additional anticipated revenues from the County would be expended, if those revenue are realized and the City's contribution remains the same. He noted that those monies would be used for an 8-hour increase in open hours each week, an increase in the budget for acquiring circulation materials . and a theft detection system for library materials. Mayor Stueck noted that the County has recognized it is not funding its fair share of the Library operations. He suggested that it is in the City's best interests to support the proposed mill levy and assist in promoting its approval as much as possible. Mr. Ron Farmer, Chair of the Library Board of Trustees, thanked the Commission for its support of the Library staff and operations over the years. He stressed the importance of showing how the proposed mill levy will enhance existing library services, rather than conducting a negative campaign, with references to user fees if the levy is not approved. Responding to Mayor Stueck, the City Manager stated that the bond issue for the Library will be paid off in the year 2000. He reminded the Commission that the costs of retiring that debt are not used when determining the costs of operating the Library, since the City . voters approved the bond issue for the facility. Library Director Steve Cottrell distributed the Library's annual report for Fiscal Year 1995 to the Commission. (D) Update re Certified Cities Program . Gallatin Development Corporation (GDC) Mrs. Dixie Swenson, Executive Director of Gallatin Development Corporation, distributed copies of the latest profile, as prepared by GDC. Mrs. Swenson reminded the Commission that the City has participated in the Montana Certified Communities Program since 1986, with the Gallatin Development Corporation being identified as the sponsoring organization on behalf of the City. She stated that this year, recertification must be sought, and requested that the Commission adopt a resolution . authorizing the GDC to proceed with recertification. She stated that at last week's meeting, the County Commission adopted its resolution, which allows the Gallatin Development Corporation to promote economic development activities in all of the County except for Belgrade and Three Forks, which have their own programs. 01 +29-96 . . -.- .----.-----,,-.- .---.-----.------ __." n_ _._______. ___ ..".__.________.u._ ._ __.__ - 11 - Mrs. Swenson stated that the Corporation's efforts are channeled into three areas: (1) retention and expansion of existing businesses, (2) recruitment of new businesses, and (3) support for new start-up businesses. She stated that the Small Business Center, to which the City makes an annual contribution, received a total of $63,000 in funding last year. In 1995, . despite a staff change, the Center assisted over 200 businesses, obtaining a total of $6Y, million in new loan commitments for businesses. She noted that, most recently, the Center obtained a small loan from Rural Economic and Community Development to provide low-interest loans to businesses in West Yellowstone who had suffered from the recent federal government shutdown, which included Yellowstone Park. She recognized that, while not all of their efforts are targeted at Bozeman, or necessarily Gallatin County, there still indirect benefits to be considered. She indicated that, based on prior years' statistics, 65 percent of the businesses which the Gallatin Development Corporation assists are located within Bozeman. Mrs. Swenson stated that the Gallatin Development Corporation has targeted its recruitment efforts toward those businesses with high-paying jobs. At the present time, they are targeting technology-based businesses, which provide an average annual salary of $30,500. . She noted that with the support services currently available in Bozeman, including facilities and personnel at Montana State University, the areas of laser optics and computer software are being the most heavily targeted. She stressed the importance of recognizing that these types of businesses require specific supporting businesses; and those supporting businesses currently exist in the community. Responding to Commissioner Stiff, Mrs. Swenson stated that the City has provided not only monetary support, but has been actively involved in the local economic development program as well. She recognized that, while the GDC and the City may disagree on policy issues from time to time, they are both moving toward the same goals; and the continued relationship between the two entities has been positive for the community. City Manager Wysocki noted that Mayor Stueck has been serving as a Board member; . and he has attended a few of the meetings to remain involved and aware of economic development activities. Mayor Stueck noted that on a Sunday morning television program, three professors from the University of Montana spoke about economic development in Montana; and one of 01-29-96 ---.---- - 12 - them recognized the fact that Gallatin County has made "leaps and bounds strides" in the technology fields in the last five years. The Commission thanked Mrs. Swenson for her presentation. City Manager Wysocki stated that the resolution authorizing the Gallatin Development . Corporation to proceed with the recertification process will be placed on next week's agenda for action. Discussion - FYI Items City Manager Wysocki presented to the Commission the following "For Your Information" items. (1 ) Letter from Ms. Suzanne McFetridge, 1615 South Willson Avenue, dated January 22, 1996, registering opposition to the removal of on-street parking to accommodate a bicycle lane. Responding to Commissioner Rudberg, the City Manager indicated that this project is one of the projects identified in the Transportation Plan. . (2) Letter from Mary Gray, 1817 South Willson Avenue, dated January 21, 1996, expressing concerns about recent City activities. (3) Agenda for the Development Review Committee meeting to be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 30, 1996. (4) Agenda for the County Commission meeting to be held at 1 :30 p.m. on Tuesday, January 30. at the Courthouse. (5) Agenda for the Transportation Commission meeting to be held on February 7 and 8 in Helena. (6) Agenda for the MetNet presentation on affordable housing, to be held on February 8, as submitted by Commissioner Rudberg. (7) Letter from Catherine Jupka, 315 North 20th Avenue, dated January 29. . regarding the proposed speed limit on North 19th Avenue between Durston Road and West Main Street. (8) The City Manager submitted his weekly report, as follows. (1) Is conducting meetings with departments heads to establish priorities for capital improvements items, including projects and equipment. (2) Announced that the wells along Bozeman Creek are 01-29-96 .-.-- ---- __.n.. _. ....._n ---- - 13 - working well; and City crews have not been in the creek to chop ice to date. (3) Announced that the Board of Adjustment held a public hearing on the visitors' center. (4) Announced that the City has received confirmation that it will receive $375,000 through federal programs to fund five new police officers. He noted that the City will be required to provide a matching . contribution as a part of the grant requirements. (5) Met with representatives from CMC last week to review possible options for use of urban renewal and tax increment financing monies at their site. (6) Attended the Bozeman Creek Water Users' meeting last week. (7) Attended the meeting on subdivision planning, which was held at the Courthouse last week. (8) Met with staff members from MMIA last week to discuss claims which have been filed. (9) Noted that some of the staff members and Commissioners attended a neighborhood meeting regarding traffic on North 20th Avenue and adjacent streets last week. (9) Commissioner Frost asked about the recent article in the newspaper regarding a meeting on February 29, and asked if the Commission is involved in that meeting. Mayor Stueck responded that he has set a meeting for Thursday, February 29, in the Cafeteria at the High School to discuss the report from the Southwest Montana Building . Industry Association focus group. He indicated that two facilitators from the University will conduct the meeting on a volunteer basis; therefore, no specific group or governing body will be responsible for that function. He encouraged all of the Commissioners to attend the meeting and become involved in the discussion. Commissioner Frost noted that when the last Master Plan update was undertaken, the first step was to hold two rather large public meetings. He stated that the type of meeting being proposed by the Mayor would be a very good first step toward the new update of the Master Plan and indicated that he is encouraged by it. Commissioner Youngman suggested that the Commission may wish to identify some issues it would like to see addressed in the discussion, such as affordable housing and planning issues. She recognized the overall benefit of unstructured discussions on this type of . document; however, she suggested that a few more structured discussions could provide some assistance in the areas in which the Commission is interested. - (10) Commissioner Youngman stated that she attended the neighborhood meeting regarding traffic in the North 20th Avenue area. She characterized the meeting as being extremely beneficial, noting that it brought people together who had not previously talked 01 ~29-96 --- . .----..- -.-------..- .------ -- -.- - 14 - to each other. She also noted that this meeting was productive, with 49 of the 50 people in attendance agreeing on the best approach to addressing the traffic issues in that immediate area. (11 ) Commissioner Rudberg submitted the following. (1) Asked if Mr. Chad . Groth's concerns about the sound system in the Commission Room are being addressed; the Clerk of the Commission responded that they are. (2) Asked if the proposed job description for the second position in the Clerk's office needs to be placed on the agenda for action; the Clerk suggested that the Commission allow her to work with the Personnel Director and bring back the job description for Commission approval if it is determined necessary. (12) Commissioner Stiff submitted the following. (1) Attended the focus group meeting, noting that their report is a well-prepared document. (2) Attended the subdivision review meeting at the Courthouse. (3) Noted that during the past week, he reviewed the information he had submitted approximately a year ago for discussion about review of the planning process; and he has resubmitted it as a part of his input for the current process. (13) City Attorney Luwe stated that the Staff Attorneys spent six hours in one . day setting trial dates for backlogged cases in City Court. He noted that the same process will be followed again this week, indicating that approximately 10 percent of the cases are being resolved during this process. (14) Mayor Stueck submitted the following. (1) Attended the Health Board retreat on Saturday. (2) Enjoyed the focus group luncheon, noting that their report was very informative. Aaenda Meetina . for reaular meeting and public hearinas to be held on February 5, 1996 Since this is an agenda meeting, only those issues requiring staff action are contained in the minutes. City Manager Wysocki briefly reviewed the background information which was . included in the Commissioners' packets. (4 and 5) Mayor Stueck stated he has been unable to discuss these items with the City Manager to date, but will do so prior to next week's meeting. (6) Commissioner Rudberg requested that the grant application information be included in the Commissioners' packets for next week. 01-29-96 ...--.-- - 15 - (8) The City Manager asked the subcommittee to coordinate review of the Pledged Securities with Laurae Clark, SID Clerk, since she is assuming many of Treasurer Joanne Riley's duties at this time. (13and 14) The City Manager stated that he told Planning staff members they . need not be present for this agenda meeting. He encouraged the Commissioners to forward any questions they may have about either of these applications to the appropriate staff members this week so they may be addressed during the public hearings on Monday. Mayor Stueck noted that the Thursday distribution of packets will begin this week. He stated that his wife, Gloria, has volunteered to deliver the packets to ensure their timely delivery, since the Police Department has been extremely busy. Adjournment - 5:50 c.m. There being no further business to come before the Commission at this time, it was moved by Commissioner Frost, seconded by Commissioner Youngman, that the meeting be adjourned. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being . Commissioner Frost, Commissioner Youngman, Commissioner Rudberg, Commissioner Stiff and Mayor Stueck; those voting No, none. c!JtML~~ DON E. STUECK, Mayor ATTEST: ~/~ ROBIN L. SULLIVAN Clerk of the Commission . 01-29-96 _ ._n.._"...__.._.