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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1995-07-10 ccmWORK -,- -,~~ -----~~..;;aI;-<:II. MINUTES OF THE WORK SESSION/AGENDA MEETING OF THE CITY COMMISSION BOZEMAN, MONTANA July 10, 1995 ***************************** . The Commission of the City of Bozeman met in work session and agenda meeting in the Commission Room, Municipal Building, July 10, 1995, at 3:00 p.m. Present were Mayor Pro Tempore Stueck, Commissioner Youngman, Commissioner Stiff, Commissioner Frost, City Manager Wysocki, City Attorney Luwe and Clerk of the Commission Sullivan. Mayor Vincent was absent in compliance with Section 7-3-4322(2), M.C.A. The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence. Agenda Meeting - for reaular meetina to be held on Julv 17. 1995 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) Assistant Planning Director Arkell gave an overviewofthe minor subdivision, with variance, under which a four-lot subdivision is to be created. This application is being forwarded with no formal recommendation from the Planning Board because of concerns that 32 dwelling units on two lots represents a high-density development, particularly when no parkland dedication is proposed for the subdivision. The fact that the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board recommendation was not made available until 3:30 p.m. on the day of the Planning Board meeting further complicated this issue. She asked the Commission to carefully consider the fact that, while this applicant is proposing a standard 37-foot-wide section for Ravalli Street through his property, Lonnie Walker is proposing only a 29-foot-wide street . section in his application for the property immediately to the east. Mayor Pro Tempore Stueck asked if the proposal for the property immediately to the east can be posted next to this proposal during Monday's Commission meeting, so that the Commission can consider the entire area instead of this parcel in isolation. The Assistant Planning Director responded that, since a formal application has been 07-10-95 - -- .. - - ----- -~ _'..'~,.~~._' _u ~ 2 - received for the property to the east, she feels it would be appropriate to post both proposals at the meeting. Mayor Pro Tempore Stueck noted that HB473, which becomes effective on October 1, 1995, exempts minor subdivisions from the parkland dedication requirements. He then . asked staff to review this bill to determine if it would affect this subject application. (10) City Attorney Luwe noted that a question was raised at last week's meeting about the qualifications for an architect on the Design Review Board. His research has revealed that an individual with a degree in architecture is qualified, and need not be a practicing architect. (11 ) Commissioner Youngman stated this was placed on the agenda at her request, following a discussion with members of the Downtown Bozeman Association at one of their recent meetings. She noted that during that discussion, a change in the procedure for approving conforming signs was suggested, to alleviate some of the complications in permitting of signs prior to the October 1, 1995, amortization date. Planning Director Epple recognized the benefits of such a change; however, he . cautioned that the change must be accomplished through a zone code amendment, which will take at least 90 days to complete. After additional discussion, the Planning Director indicated it is apparent that confusion about the code requirements has lead to this recommended change; however, he characterized it as a good change that will streamline the process in the future. (24 and 25) Senior Planner Windemaker gave a brief overview of the planned unit development and preliminary plat for the Cupola project, noting that no formal recommendation is being forwarded by the Planning Board. She stated that the project is to be developed in three phases, and reminded the Commission that under these agenda items, they will be acting on Phase I and the master plans for Phases II and III. The Senior Planner responded to several questions from the Commissioners about the . right-of-way for Highland Boulevard and the appropriateness of requiring the applicant to obtain easements for those portions of the roadway which extend from the subject property to Front Street and East Main Street. Mayor Pro Tempore Stueck suggested that, since infrastructure improvements are to be constructed along the Highland Boulevard right-of-way from East Mendenhall Street to Front 07~ 1 0~95 -.-. .-.- -.------.--.---.--...---...----- - 3 - Street, the applicant should be required to improve the roadway as well. He noted that this would ensure a secondary access to the project, even if Phase I is the only phase ever completed. Commissioner Youngman expressed concern that no maps have been included in the . proposal to depict the environmental data which is in written form. She stated that maps depicting the different types of soils would be beneficial. Also, maps depicting the existing wetlands as well as the proposed enhancement and reshaping of the wetlands would be useful. Commissioner Youngman raised questions concerning groundwater and near surface water degradation and asked if those will be adequately addressed. Senior Planner Windemaker stated that, with the reviews required by the Engineering Department and all other reviews prior to development, she feels that the issue of groundwater protection can be adequately addressed. She then suggested that a dry shop could be required if that is determined necessary; however, it was not an issue raised by the Engineering staff. City Manager Wysocki noted that a concern has been raised over the number of conditions that have been proposed for approval of these applications. He recognized that . several of those conditions are simply statements of zoning regulations; however, he recommended that they not be deleted simply to reduce the number of conditions. He then encouraged the Commission to establish all of the conditions it feels are necessary to ensure appropriate development, and not worry about the number of conditions generated. He then indicated that a written response to each of the conditions is anticipated; and he has requested that the information be submitted in time to be included in the Commissioners' packets for next week's meeting. The City Manager stated that the applicant has given the City an extension to July 31 on the preliminary plat. He suggested that the Commission may wish to ask for an additional extension, to allow them to make a decision at the August 7 meeting if they are not comfortable making a decision following the public hearing at next week's meeting. . Responding to additional questions from the Commission, the City Manager cautioned that the issue of financing is not to be addressed under these processes. He encouraged the Commission to focus on Phase I of the subdivision and the planned unit development only at this time. ¥ 07-10-95 - 4 - Work Session with staff re solid waste/lona-ranae cacital facilities clans in light of cossible com costing crogram Commissioner Youngman asked for staff input on the proposed composting program. Mayor Pro Tempore Stueck asked about the remaining life of the current landfill and the timeline for possibly beginning the type of composting program that has been discussed. . Director of Public Service Forbes stated that the cell at the landfill which is currently being used is nearly full. He noted that bids have just been opened for lining a 14-acre expansion of the landfill; and the lining will hopefully be completed yet this year. Approximately one acre is used each year at the landfill; and this is the last cell available at the existing landfill. The Director stated that the 1992 study completed by Damschen and Associates, an excerpt of which was included in the Commissioners' packets, forwards a recommendation for working jointly with the County to develop a regional facility in the long term. He recognized that this could be in the form of a regional composting facility, if that is determined to be the best alternative. He cautioned that to implement a regional composting program will impact operations of the Wastewater Treatment Plant and the landfill; and those changes must be carefully considered. He further cautioned that, based on a 70-percent . reduction in garbage through composting, the City must be prepared to accommodate 13,000 tons of material in a landfill annually. He then noted that, if a regional composting program is determined to be the best alternative to pursue, it will take approximately five years to acquire the needed capital equipment to put the program into full operation. City Manager Wysocki emphasized the importance of ensuring that long-term financing is acquired before a composting program is undertaken. He cited the funding problems encountered in Livingston when the BN pulled out of the incineration program. He noted that this program would be eligible for funding through a DNRC loan, which currently carries an interest rate of 4 percent. Commissioner Youngman noted that siting of the composting facility is an issue that . needs to be considered. She also noted that both economic and environmental issues must be carefully studied and addressed. City Manager Wysocki reminded the Commission that their decision must be a good business decision for both the Wastewater Fund and the Garbage Fund; and the reasons for the business decisions may not be the same for each of the funds. 07-10-95 - 5 - Street/Sanitation Superintendent Roger Sicz suggested that each of the entities desiring to become involved in the composting program be asked to list their goals and objectives. He noted that information could be beneficial when trying to design a program, and may help in determining its feasibility. . Work Session with County Commission re: (A) Solid Waste (B) UDdate re status of transDortation system UDgrades in iurisdictional area Those present for this joint work session included: City Mayor Pro Tempore Don Stueck Commissioner Joe Frost Commissioner AI Stiff Commissioner Marcia Youngman City Manager Jim Wysocki City Attorney Paul Luwe Director of Public Service Phill Forbes Street/Sanitation Superintendent Roger Sicz Engineer Karen Finke County Commissioner Jane Jelinski . Commissioner Phil Olson Road Superintendent Sam Gianfrancisco (A) Solid Waste Commissioner Youngman reviewed several questions which the City Commission has determined must be answered before they can act on any proposal for a joint composting program. County Commissioner Olson stated that the County Commission has identified the same questions. He then stated that Mr. Tim Hudson has indicated a willingness to serve as a clearing house for all of the questions and gathering of information that may be necessary for determining whether a regional composting program is feasible and desirable. Street/Sanitation SuperintendentSicz stressed the importance of obtaining information . on the tons of garbage generated by each entity, and what percentage of that garbage could be used in a composting program. He noted that from the information he has reviewed, it is apparent that a small composting program, which uses only 10 tons of garbage per day, can be successful. Mayor Pro Tempore Stueck recognized that it will take three to five years to get a regional composting program into operation, even if planning begins immediately. He noted 07-10-95 ..-....-- n .__ - 6 - that if the process takes longer than that, other alternatives will probably be taken by the potential participants. County Commissioner Phil Olson concurred. He noted that if a regional composting program is to be undertaken, it must be undertaken now. He recognized that if it is not begun . now and implemented within a few years, those who might have participated will make alternative decisions which will preclude the option of a composting program for many years. The City and County Commissioners recognized the need to gather information on garbage generated, goals and objectives, and other standardized information that can be used to determine the feasibility of a regional composting program. They further recognized the importance of all of the participants being willing to enter into a long-term arrangement that is at least as long as the term of indebtedness. (B) Update re status of transportation system upgrades in jurisdictional area Commissioner Stiff asked for an update on the West Babcock Street project. County Commissioner Jelinski stated the preliminary design for West Babcock Street has been submitted to the County Attorney's Office; and that office is now researching the . legal status of the right-of-way. City Attorney Luwe stated that it may be necessary to obtain a title report to determine the ownerships involved. He noted that after that information has been gathered, the City and the County will need to determine whether additional right-of-way is to be purchased or if condemnation proceedings are necessary. He stated that once the alignment of the roadway has been established and the necessary right-of-way acquired, the governing bodies can then determine the financing mechanism to be used for improvement of the roadway. Director of Public Service Forbes cautioned that, with the number of properties involved, the title report could be quite costly. . City Manager Wysocki noted that the City has required right-of-way for a 90-foot road corridor through all recent annexation and development approvals. He further noted that the City has obtained the preliminary design and alignment of the roadway; and all of those items total a significant contribution toward the project to date. Mayor Pro Tempore Stueck announced that Fowler Avenue is now paved from West Babcock Street to US Highway 191. He noted that once work on the highway has been 07-10-95 _ -- ,..----- .-.----- -------- -- - 7 - completed, Fowler Avenue will provide a second access to Valley Unit Subdivision. Commissioner Stiff asked about the status of the Bozeman/Four Corners project. County Road Superintendent Sam Gianfrancisco stated that the contractor has encountered problems with materials and is now laying down fabric where needed. He . estimated that the project will not be completed until at least this time next year. City Manager Wysocki noted the importance of obtaining the rights-of-way necessary for the north and south extensions of Ferguson Avenue and Fowler Avenue. He also asked about the reasonableness of anticipating the signalization of both of those roadways at US Highway 191. County Road Superintendent Gianfrancisco stated he has also recently identified road corridors which should be protected, and where rights-of-way should be obtained whenever possible. He recognized that the extension of Fowler Avenue would connect with Davis Lane; and noted that extension of Ferguson Avenue could be made on an alignment with Flanders Lane, which then intersects with Baxter Lane. He stated that these two road extensions would provide alternatives for accessing the new North 19th Avenue interchange. . Responding to the City Manager, County Road Superintendent Gianfrancisco cautioned that Griffin Drive is a State secondary roadway which is County maintained. He noted that any plans for upgrading of Griffin Road must be approved by the State Highway Commission before work can be undertaken. He then stated that the County has approached the Montana Department of Highways about the possibility of trading County maintenance of Griffin Drive for County maintenance of Haggerty Lane between the Life of Montana building and Bozeman Trail. He noted that the length of those roadways is essentially the same; and the County already maintains the remainder of Haggerty Lane; so the change in maintenance makes sense. County Road Superintendent Sam Gianfrancisco emphasized the importance of the City and the County coordinating efforts. He also noted the importance of establishing a good . working rapport with the Montana Department of Transportation, stating that he believes his trips to Helena have enabled Gallatin County to obtain more monies for maintenance of secondary roads. Mayor Pro Tempore Stueck noted that the southward extension of South 11 th Avenue is anticipated within the next five to ten years. Also, extension of Garfield Street from 07~ 10-95 ~ ---. -.-.. - 8 - South 19th Avenue to Fowler Avenue is anticipated during approximately the same time period. The Commissioners discussed the extension of Oak Street from North 7th Avenue to North 19th Avenue as an important link in the transportation system. They recognized that the full benefit of the North 19th Avenue interchange will not be known until that link is completed; . and that completion is scheduled for next summer. The Commissioners briefly discussed the impact that the recent Supreme Court decision might have on the visitors' center at the North 19th Avenue interchange, since the center must be manned but the Chamber of Commerce office cannot be located there. County Road Superintendent Gianfrancisco cautioned that a definite commitment must be made soon if Bozeman wishes to have the visitors' center at the North 19th Avenue interchange, since the Belgrade interchange improvements are scheduled for next summer; and Belgrade has indicated an intent to aggressively pursue obtaining the visitors' center as a part of that project. Director of Public Service Forbes stated that the Montana Department of Transportation has indicated an interest in installing a traffic signal at the intersection of North 7th Avenue and Griffin Drive. He noted that if the State is able to obtain financing participation . from the City and the County, the project will probably be completed this fall. The City Commissioners thanked the County Commissioners for participating in this work session. Discussion - FYI Items City Manager Wysocki presented to the Commission the following "For Your Information" items. (1 ) A copy of the City Manager's Budget Recommendation for Fiscal year 1995- 1996. The City Manager reminded the Commission that under the proposed timeline for adoption of the budget for Fiscal Year 1996/ work sessions on this document will begin at 7:00 . p.m. on Tuesday, July 18. The Commissioners generally concurred with the proposed timeline for the budget process, recognizing that some change in dates may be required after the process begins. (2) Agenda for the Development Review Committee meeting to be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 11, in the Commission Room. 07-10-95 --- . -- - 9 - (3) Agenda for the Design Review Board meeting to be held at 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 11, in the Commission Room. (4) Agenda for the County Commission meeting to be held at 1 :30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 11, at the Courthouse. . (5) Memo from the Montana Department of Commerce. dated June 23, 1995, forwarding the results of the 1995 legislative session as they pertain to planning issues. (6) Announced that a luncheon is to be held at noon tomorrow at the Emerson Cultural Center, inviting people to visit their facility. None of the Commissioners indicated that they would be able to attend the luncheon. (7) Memo from Neighborhood Coordinator/Grantsperson James Goehrung announcing that the City is to receive a certificate of appreciation from the Coalition of Montanans Concerned with Disabilities at a 2:00 p.m. picnic on Wednesday, July 12, at the Bogert Pavilion. (8) Announcement that the Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs Committee will not be meeting in July. . (9) Copy of a letter from Senior Planner Windemaker to the Montana Department of Transportation, dated July 6, regarding possible striping of a crosswalk on East Main Street at Cypress Avenue. (10) Commissioner Frost submitted the following. (1) Asked that agenda items for one of the upcoming work sessions include a report from Planning Director Epple on subdivision regulations and a discussion about allowable street widths where alleys are a part of the transportation system. (2) Noted that it is becoming more and more interesting to have public hearings on Certificates of Appropriateness with deviations. He reminded the Commission that under the old zone code, those projects would not have been allowed. (11 ) Commissioner Youngman announced that she will attend the District 10 . legislative update meeting on Thursday, July 13. (12) Commissioner Stiff submitted the following. (1) Attended the Bozeman Senior Center Board of Directors meeting last week. (2) Attended the dedication of the Interfaith low-income rental housing project on Sunday. ( 13) Mayor Pro Tempore Stueck submitted the following. (1) Attended the Recreation and Parks Advisory Board meeting on Thursday. (2) Attended the luncheon meeting 07-10-95 ----". - 10 - at First Security Bank last week. He noted that at that meeting, the need for affordable day care became very evident. (3) Announced that the School District will be unveiling a long-range plan for its facilities in the near future. He suggested that the City should carefully review that plan, since some of the options could provide a benefit to the City. . Adjournment - 6:00 p.m. There being no further business to come before the Commission at this time, it was moved by Commissioner Stiff, seconded by Commissioner Frost, that the meeting be adjourned. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Commissioner Stiff, Commissioner Frost, Commissioner Youngman and Mayor Pro Tempore Stueck; those voting No, none. a~~ DON E. STUECK Mayor Pro Tempore . ATTEST: ~J~ ROBIN L. SULLIVAN Clerk of the Commission . 07-10-95