HomeMy WebLinkAbout1990-03-12
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MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE CITY COMMISSION
BOZEMAN, MONT ANA
March 12, 1990
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The Commission of the City of Bozeman met in regular session in the Commission
Room, Municipal Building, March 12, 1990, at 2:30 p.m. Present were Mayor Hawks, Com-
missioner Goehrung, Commissioner Frost, Commissioner Swanson, Commissioner Knapp, City
Manager Wysocki, City Attorney Becker and Clerk of the Commission Sullivan.
The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence.
None of the Commissioners requested that any of the Consent Items be removed for
discussion.
Minutes - March 5, 1990
It was moved by Commissioner Goehrung, seconded by Commissioner Frost, that the
minutes of the regular meeting of March 5, 1990 be approved as submitted. The motion
carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Commissioner
Goehrung, Commissioner Frost, Commissioner Swanson, Commissioner Knapp and Mayor
Hawks; those voting No, none.
Review of Historic Preservation budget unit for Fiscal Year 1989-90
City Manager Wysocki suggested that this item be deferred until the regular meeting
of March 26, 1990, per a request submitted by the Chairman of the Historic Preservation
Advisory Commission.
Authorize City-sponsored application for an Historic Preservation grant
The City Manager asked Historic Preservation Officer Dennis Seibel to submit a re-
port on th is request.
Historic Preservation Officer Seibel stated that, for the first time in eight years,
Congress has released funds for acquisition and development grants for restoration and
rehabilitation of properties on the National Register of Historic Places, with said monies to
be distributed through the State Historic Preservation Office. He indicated that Montana
has received $45,000; and the State Historic Preservation Office has limited availability of
those funds to communities with a Certified Local Government program in place, as well as
implementing a $10,000 cap.
HPO Seibel stated he has advertised the availability of these monies in the Bozeman
Daily Chronicle; and he has received at least a dozen responses. He stated the Historic
Preservation Advisory Commission has also considered a City-sponsored application for a
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study on re-use of the Haynes Building, which was recently donated to the City. He
indicated that the cost .of the project, which would Include review of the interior of the
structure and how it could be rehabilitated while maintaining Its historic integrity, is es-
timated at $4,000; and under the proposed application, $2,000 in grant monies would be
sought with the remaining $2,000 would be funded locally, possibly by the City.
Mr. Seibel stated that applications are due in the State Historic Preservation Office
by next Monday, March 19; therefore, an Immediate decision is needed.
Mr. Seibel stated that another project being contemplated under this program is a
ten-week training session on restoration of an historic building, utilizing a building on
South Willson Avenue. He reminded the Commission of the limited funds available, noting
that not all of the projects submitted can be funded.
In response to a question from Commissioner Swanson, HPO Seibel stated that he
has not reviewed the individual applications; that will be accomplished by the HPAC on
Wednesday night. He did note that there were several small projects included in those ap-
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plications, which would probably range In the $3,000 to $5,000 bracket.
Responding to another question from Commissioner Swanson, the Historic Preserva-
tion Officer stated that study of the interior of the Haynes Building will include reviewing
the original interior materials and design and how the building could be further divided
for efficient utilization in an architecturally similar manner. He also indicated that the
water, sewer and electrical capacities of the building would also be carefully reviewed.
Commissioner Knapp asked for a brief history of the Haynes Building.
Historic Preservation Officer Seibel stated the Haynes Building, located at 801 North
Wallace Avenue, was originally constructed by Jack Haynes, descendant of J. F. Haynes, as
a photography stud io in the late 1800's. It is located across the street from the Lehrkind
Coke plant and is attached to the Old Brewery Building, which was built by Julius Lehrkind
in 1895.
In response to a question from Commissioner Frost, the City Manager stated the
building was recently donated to the City by the Haynes Foundation, with the stipulation
that it must be used for public purposes or economic development for the first five years.
He indicated the building contains approximately 20,000 square feet; and extensive finish
work must be completed if the basement is to be utilized.
Commissioner Swanson suggested that the City commit $1,000 toward local funding,
with the remaining $1,000 to be funded through private sources, possibly the Gallatin De-
velopment Corporation.
In response to questions from Commissioner Frost, the City Manager stated he is
responsible for management of the building at the present time. He indicated this is the
first step in taking whatever actions are necessary to rehabilitate the building so it can be
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actively utilized in some manner. He noted that the study should provide some idea of the
costs involved in renovating the structure. He indicating that some off-street parking can
be provided on the site; and some parking can probably be obtained on the adjacent prop-
erty.
It was moved by Commissioner Swanson, seconded by Commissioner Knapp, that the
Commission authorize and direct the staff to prepare and submit an application for a $2,000
grant for study of the Haynes Building; and appropriate $1,000 in local matching monies,
with the remaining $1,000 to be solicited through private donations. The motion carried
by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Commissioner Swanson, Com-
missioner Knapp. Commissioner Goehrung, Commissioner Frost and Mayor Hawks; those
voting No, none.
Report from Planning Board sub-committee re performing arts center - Ralph Johnson
City Manager Wysocki stated that Mr. Ralph Johnson, member of the City-County
Planning Board serving on the sub-committee to identify possible sites for the performing
arts center, has requested an opportunity to address the Commission.
Mr. Ralph Johnson distributed to the Commission a preliminary report of potential
sites for the performing arts center, noting this report will be submitted to the City-
County Planning Board at its regular meeting to be held tonight.
Mr. Johnson noted that the first three goals I isted under Section F of the goals
section of the 1990 Master Plan Update deal directly with the proposed performing arts
center. He then read those goa Is, as follows:
1. Maintain and strengthen the central business district as a commer-
cial, cultural and symbolic center for the Bozeman area.
2. Promote and stimulate the development of the Bozeman area as a cul-
tural and recreational center.
3. Continue to support the long-term economic development goals of the
community, and support the programs necessary to accomplish these
goals.
Mr. Johnson stated that, in light of these three goals in the Master Plan, the
sub-committee identified three sites, which represent a broad spectrum of locations, located
In or near the downtown area, and which would lend themselves to varying funding abil-
ities and designs.
The first site listed is located on East Main Street, Immediately west of Lindley
Park. This site, which is privately owned at this time, is approximately fifteen acres in
size, and would lend itself to various alternatives in addition to the performing arts cen-
ter. Mr. Johnson noted this site was also Identified by the Site Selection Committee for
the Performing Arts Center.
The second site listed is the air rights above the City parking lots located along
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East Mendenhall Street between North Bozeman Avenue and North Tracy Avenue. Mr.
Johnson noted this area is approximately two acres in size, which could severely limit ini-
tial construction as well as any potential for expansion; however, the Ellen Theatre is in
close proximity and could possibly be utilized In conjunction with this site.
The third site includes a combination of the Willson School, located on West Main
Street, and the Emerson School, located on South Grand Avenue. Mr. Johnson noted the
School District has been reviewing various options for utilization or disposal of these
buildings; and to remodel them for the performing arts center would ensure that they are
not destroyed. He suggested that the Willson School could be remodeled into a small the-
atre; and the Emerson School could house a large theatre. Adequate parking for those
facilities could be provided through utilization of both sites for activities held in either lo-
cation. Mr. Johnson stated one drawback to this sIte is Its close proximity to residential
development on the south, which could cause a conflict with vehicular circulation to and
from the site.
Mr. Ralph Johnson stated that the goals, objectives and implementation policies es-
tablished in the 1990 Master Plan Update Imply more City involvement with the performing
arts center than simply naming potential sites, but seems to imply Implementation support,
possibly through low-interest loan guarantees or issuance of General Obligation bonds; op-
erational support, possibly through City-provided maintenance or City supplement of op-
erating expenses; and planning support, through use of the Planning staff or contracted
services.
Commissioner Knapp noted it was her Impression that the performing arts center is
an endeavor of private community groups; and the City is not involved. She suggested
, the City's duties have possibly been met through identification of possible sites, which has
been accompl ished in th is report. She then asked if height restrictions might create prob-
lems for construction ofa performing arts center above the parking lots.
Mr. Johnson concurred that height restrictions, as currently listed in the zone
code, could create a design problem. He noted this type of construction has not been
previously considered In Bozeman's downtown area.
Commissioner Frost noted that there has been a lot of Planning Board discussion
about the projects being addressed by the Planning staff, and asked if adding this to
their workload might create problems.
Mr. Ralph Johnson responded this is a very preliminary report, noting the sub-
committee for personnel is beginning to discuss those issues. He suggested that with Ron
Brey's leaving the department, there may be room for this type of consideration.
Commissioner Swanson suggested that, at this time it would be appropriate for the
City to take no action, but wait until representatives of the performing arts center make a
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specific request. He noted that the Commission could then consider and take action on
that request.
Mayor Hawks stated that this report completes the City's obligation at this time,
noting that the University has made a similar report to the Performing Arts Center Site
Selection Committee.
Mr. Ralph Johnson concurred that It Is appropriate for the Commission to wait until
the Site Selection Committee has had an opportunity to review this information and re-
spond.
Mr. George Mattson, Chairman of the Site Selection Committee for the Performing
Arts Center, stated the committee has been meeting for approximately and one and one-half
"ears. He noted that the City has met what it agreed to do by identifying potential sites
in the downtown area, thanking the Commission for this report. He then indicated that
any Planning staff assistance or City funding would be greatly appreciated.
The Commission thanked Mr. Johnson for his presentation.
Ordinance No. 1306 - Appropriation Ordinance for the Capital Improvement Program for the
period October 1, 1989 through June 30,1990
City Manager Wysocki presented Ordinance No. 1306, as reviewed by the City At-
torney, entitled:
ORDINANCE NO. 1306
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BOZEMAN, MONTANA, APPROPRIATING
CITY FUNDS FOR VARIOUS CAPITAL ITEM EXPENDITURES FOR THE PERI-
OD OCTOBER 1, 1989 THROUGH JUNE 30, 1990.
The City Manager reminded the Commission that this ordinance was adopted as a
tentative appropriation ordinance on February 14; and the public hearing was held on Feb-
ruary 26. He then recommended that the ordinance be finally adopted at this time.
It was moved by ComrnissionerKnapp, seconded by Commissioner Goehrung, that
the Commission finally adopt Ordinance No. 1306, the appropriation ordinance for the Capi-
tal Improvement ProgramJor thep~riodOctPb~r 1, 1989 through June 30, 1990. The mo-
tion carried by the foll9win9 Aye a,"!d No vote,: those voting Aye being Commissioner
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Knapp, Commissioner Goehrung., ComnHssloner' Frost, Commissioner Swanson and Mayor
Hawks; those voting No, none.
Discussion - FYI Items
City Manager Wysocki presented to the Commission the following IlFor Your lnforma-
tionll items.
(1) Copy of a letter from Director of Public Service Forbes to the Department of
Highways re the Kagy Boulevard interim project.
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(2) Copy of a letter from the Solid Waste Program Manager to City Attorney
Becker commenting on the City's RFP for curbside recycl ing.
In response to a question from the Mayor, City Attorney Becker indicated this let-
ter does not clarify the major concerns raised. He noted those responses must come from
the Public Service Commission; and he has not yet received any.
(3) Agenda for the Bozeman Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors meet-
ing scheduled for 6: 45 a. m. on Tuesday, March 13.
(4) Notice of a Tax Reform Coalition meeting scheduled for 7: 30 a.m. on Wednes-
day, March 14.
(5) Agenda and packet for the City-County Planning Board meeting to be held at
7:00 p.m. this evening at the Library.
(6) The City Manager announced a hearing to be held at 3:00 p.m. tomorrow be-
fore the County Commission concerning the boundary lines to be utilized in implementing
HB703. He then Indicated that Administrative Services Director Gamradt will be in atten-
dance at that meeting and encouraged as many Commissioners as possible to attend. He
also suggested that the Commission designate one Commissioner to serve as spokesperson
and provide some direction on the City's official position.
Administrative Services Director Gamradt provided some background on reappraisals
in Montana over the past few years as well as the new requirements established under
HB703. He noted that under the new bill, annual reappraisals will be done, based on ac-
tual real estate sales in that area over the past year.
The Director stated that initially, Gallatin County was established as one area, with
an average increase of 19 percent. The residents around Manhattan and Three Forks ob-
jected; and a committee chaired by Senator Dorothy Eck reviewed the issue and developed
a map with five areas. He noted that the West Yellowstone/Big Sky area will change up-
ward 40 percent; Gallatin Gateway and Bear Canyon will increase 11 percent; the area sur-
rounding Bozeman will Increase 19 percent, as will Bozeman proper; and the Manhattan/
Three Forks area will increase by 10 percent. He stated that the County Commission has
expressed Its intent to support this proposal; however, residents of the Big Sky area have
expressed a desire to be jnCluded with Bozeman. He noted if that does happen, Bozeman
will incur an additional3-percent increase.
The Administrative Services Director stated that if the City Commission lowers the
mill levy by 19 percent and the market values are Increased by 19 percent, the City will
collect the same dollars it did last year. He cautioned the Commission, however, that the
95 mills currently levied state-wide for schools will remain at that level; therefore, resi-
dents will realize an increase in their taxes.
Commissioner Swanson requested that the Director prepare a sheet showing the dif-
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ferences in property taxes which the City would realize through all of the increase in mar-
ket value, one-half of the increase, one-fourth of the increase and none of the increase.
The Commissioner then requested, in addition, a staff recommendation on the best option.
The Director indicated he will prepare such an information sheet. He then indicat-
ed that the budgetary process, as well as the Commission's goals for the upcoming fiscal
year, will determine the percentage of increased market value which the City must realize.
Commissioner Knapp asked about the Intent of the legislation.
Representative Norm Wallin Indicated that the bill was to equalize valuation in the
entire state. He noted that properties in the eastern portion of the state have decreased
in value while those in the western part have increased. He noted that under this bill,
the total valuation will remain the same but the distribution will more accurately reflect the
actual values at the present time. He stated that implementation of that legislation appears
to be creating the problems at this time, especially in larger counties such as Gallatin
County.
Representative Wallin stated that County Commissioner White appears to be support-
ive of a county-wide reappraisal, particularly since many of their levies are set on a county-
wide basis.
The Administrative Services Director noted that the percentage of Increase for the
County on the whole is to be 19 percent, while the increase in Bozeman alone is projected
at 19 percent.
In response to a question from Commissioner Swanson, the Administrative Services
Director indicated that the increases in market value under HB703 are not subject to ap-
peal; however, the 1982 appraised value may be appealed and possibly adjusted.
Commissioner Knapp Indicated she will be attending the public hearing, and would
be willing to serve as the Commission's representative. Commissioner Frost indicated he
will also be in attendance.
Following discussion, the Commissioners concurred that they do not favor any alter-
native that would raise the percentage of Increase to Bozeman's market values. They did
express support for the proposed five-district breakdown of the county or a county-wide
district.
(7) The City Manager presented his weekly report as follows. (1) Reminder of
the Valley Unit auction to be held at 1 :00 p.m. on Wednesday at the Holiday Inn. (2) The
RFP for property insurance is to be distributed on Thursday, with quotes due in May.
Hopefully, this will result In a lower premium for that insurance. (3) He and Administra-
tive Services Director Gamradt are preparing for negotiations with the various employee
groups. (4) Reminder of the meeting with the Fish, Wildlife and Parks Department con-
cerning maintenance of East Gallatin Park. (5) Director of Public Service Forbes met with
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representatives of the Water Quality Bureau regarding the groundwater contamination prob-
lems a long North 17th A venue. (6) City staff has approached Montana Power Company con-
cerning utility lines along the extension of Kagy Boulevard; but no response has yet been
received. (7) He is negotiating with representatives of Montana Power Company concern-
ing maintenance of the small strip of parkland along the west side of their property. He
noted that if the City can successfully negotiate with MPC to maintain that strip of park-
land at a cost which Is equal to or less than what the City could maintain it for, he will
recommend that the City do so. He suggested this may be a possible approach for similar
strips of parkland In the community.
(8) The Montana Municipal Clerks' Institute, as well as the Elected Officials
Workshop, are being held this week.
(9) Licenses have been Issued for 699 dogs and 422 cats to date.
(10 ) Reminder of the work session concerning goals, which has been scheduled
for 7:00 p.m. tonight.
(11) Commissioner Frost stated he has received many favorable comments concern-
ing the recent enforcement of age limits on the purchase of alcohol.
Consent Items
City Manager Wysocki presented to the Commission the following Consent Items.
olice cars to Bozeman Ford -
- chan in the time of the re ular meetin s
COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2782
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF BOZEMAN,
MONTANA, CHANGING THE TIME OF THE REGULAR MEETINGS OF THE
CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF BOZEMAN.
A
of March 19 in
of March 19 in
It was moved by Commissioner Goehrung , seconded by Commissioner Frost, 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 Goehrung, Commissioner Frost, Commis-
sioner Swanson, Commissioner Knapp and Mayor Hawks; those voting No, none.
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Adjournment - 3: 52 p. m.
There being no further business to come before the Commission at this time, it was
moved by Commissioner Frost, seconded by Commissioner Swanson, that the meeting be ad-
jou rned . The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being
Commissioner Frost, Commissioner Swanson, Commissioner Knapp, Commissioner Goehrung
and Mayor Hawks; those voting No, none.
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