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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1990-04-09 ';"" -:i ..'. MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE CITY COMMISSION BOZEMAN, MONT ANA April 9, 1990 ************************ The Commission of the City of Bozeman met in regular session in the Commission Room, Municipal Building, April 9, 1990, at 3:30 p.m. Present were Mayor Hawks, Com- missioner Goehrung, Commissioner Frost, Commissioner Swanson, Commissioner Knapp, City Manager Wysocki and Clerk of the Commission Sullivan. The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence. Mayor Hawks asked if any of the Commissioners wished any of the items be removed from the Consent Items for discussion. City Manager Wysocki requested that the letter to the State Highway Department requesting a speed study on 19th Avenue be removed from the Consent Items for discussion. Minutes - March 26, 1990 and April 2, 1990 It was moved by Commissioner Goehrung, seconded by Commissioner Frost, that the minutes for the regular meeting of March 26, 1990 be approved as submitted; and the min- utes for the regular meeting of April 2, 1990 be approved as amended. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Commissioner Goehrung, Com- missioner Frost, Commissioner Swanson, Commissioner Knapp and Mayor Hawks; those vot- ing No, none. of nomination of Emerson City Manager Wysocki submitted to the Commission a letter from Chris Boyd, Historic Preservation Advisory Commission, requesting an opportunity to address them, along with a copy of the application and letters of support. Mr. Chris Boyd, member of the Historic Preservation Advisory Commission, provid- ed the Commission with a brief history of the Emerson School site and its historical signifi- cance. He noted that during the inventory proce~s which was conducted five or six years ago, the Emerson School was disqualified from nomination to the National Historic Register at the City level because the windows had been retrofitted. He stated that since that time, Mr. John DeHaas and several other architects have indicated that the subject window alteration does not disqualify the building since the windows can easily be changed back to the original design. They further noted that the entire structure, and its characteristics, should be reviewed in determining whether it would qualify for historic nomination. Mr. Boyd stated that in the nomination, the school, as well as the entire play- ground, have been included. He noted that this entire two-square-block site has served 04-09-90 ,'~" ' .. f < - 2 - as an educational site in Bozeman, since construction of the original bui Iding, known as West Side School, in 1877. He stated that over the years the school has housed all grade levels, including the first few college students before Montana State University was con- structed. He noted that Fred Willson, prominent local architect. attended school at the Emerson School. Mr. Chris Boyd stated he has received two letters of support which were not in- cluded in the packet, one from Gary Griffith, School District No.7, stating the windows were retrofitted in two stages in the late 1970's and early 1980's; and that project resulted in a 50 percent reduction in heat costs. The second letter is from Matney/Frantz, consu 1- tants, who have documented the same facts. He noted that these two letters reflect the fact that the retrofitting was done for conservation issues, not as a misguided attempt to upgrade the facility. Mr. Boyd stated that to play the windows against the overall historic preservation issues is a grave error. He then encouraged the Commission to forward a letter of sup- port for this application to the State Historic Preservation Office. He noted that members of the Historic Pr.eservation Advisory Commission plan to speak on behalf of the application before the State Historic Preservation Board on June 4, when the application is to be con- sidered. Mr. Boyd stated that to have the building listed on the National Historic Register could provide a potential new owner with the possibility of applying for tax credits or seeking property tax breaks for renovation of the structure to its original state. He noted that many of the original plans have been located; therefore, renovation would be quite easy. City Manager Wysocki reminded the Commission that one possibility for use of the site is as a part of the Performing Arts Center activities, in conjunction with the school across the street. He then asked if designation of the entire two-square-block area on the National Historic Register would preclude using a portion of the playground as a parking area; Mr. Boyd responded it would not. The City Manager then asked if it would be pos- sible to remove the fence from around the school so it blends better with the neighbor- hood; Mr. Boyd responded it would be. In response to a question from Commissioner Knapp, Mr. Boyd indicated that plac- ing the building on the National Historic Register will not restrict the School District on any sale of the structure. He noted that no covenants will be attached; and the only in- centives are realized through tax credits or property tax breaks. In response to a question from Commissioner Goehrung, Mr. Boyd stated that the School Board has not taken any official action on endorsing this nomination. He stated that he will make a presentation to the Board at their May 14 meeting; and he will seek a 04-09-90 . <~"..,:... i' .' - 3 - letter of support at that time. He then stated that Mr. Gary Griffith and Dr. Keith Cham- bers have received copies of the appl ication; and several of the teachers at Emerson School have already signed a letter of support. He also noted that he has just received a letter of support from the Parent Advisory Council at the Emerson School. Dr. Keith Chambers, Superintendent of Schools, stated he is in support of the proposed nomination. He reminded the Commission that the School District is exempt from the City's zone code; and he feels that designation on the National Historic Register would be beneficial. Commissioner Swanson encouraged the Commission to support this application. He then stated that he will abstain from voting on this agenda item because of a potential con- flict of interest. Commissioner Frost stated this building is extremely important and should be saved, stating support for this application. He suggested that a letter of support should stress its importance to the fabric of Bozeman. It was moved by Commissioner Frost, seconded by Commissioner Knapp, that the Commission authorize and direct the Mayor to send a letter of support to the State Historic Preservation Office for the nomination of the Emerson School to the National Historic Regis- ter. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Com- missioner Frost, Commissioner Knapp, Commissioner Goehrung and Mayor Hawks; those voting No, none. Commissioner Swanson abstained. Discussion - request for permission to attend grantwriting workshop - Holiday Inn - May 7-10, 1990 The City Manager stated that included in the Commissioners' packets was a memo from Commissioner Goehrung, along with a copy of the City Commission's expenditure re- port for the period ending February 28, 1990. Commissioner Goehrung noted that the "travel and schools" line item reflects a neg- ative amount; however, there are adequate monies in some of the other line items under the operations portion of the budget to maintain a positive position, even if this request is approved. The Commissioner then reminded the other Commissioners that he had provided them with information concerning the upcoming workshop under "FYI Items" at last week's meeting. Commissioner Goehrung stated that the cost of the workshop, entitled "Get that Grant: Grantwriting from Conception to Completion, II is $475.00. He indicated that the Local Government Center has agreed to pay one-half of the tuition; therefore, the City's share would be $237.50 for the other half. He then noted that, even though he is a Com- missioner with less than two years of his term remaining, he is willing to make the time 04-09-90 ---.. .,,-~', -~ ,,:,.,.:,-.,. .,'1.- I' , , . - 4 - commitment to attend this workshop. He also indicated that no City staff member has stepped forward to show an interest in attending this workshop. Mayor Hawks told Commissioner Goehrung that if he is willing to share some of his newly-acquired knowledge with those participating in the historic preservation and cultural affairs areas, he feels it would be money well spent. He noted, however, this means a commitment which is above and beyond just attending the workshop. Commissioner Goehrung recognized that commitment, noting that he does not see himself as becoming a full-time grantwriter, but he would be willing to assist staff in iden- tifying available monies and writing grant applications. Mayor Hawks noted that the City has been reimbursed $692, or one-half of the costs of two Commissioners attending a conference in January. He noted those monies have been receipted into the General Fund as an extraordinary revenue, but will not be reflected within the Commission's budget unit. He stated, therefore, the Commission has not, in essence, exceeded its travel budget to date. Commissioner Knapp stated she has passed the information on this workshop on to the Library staff; and it is possible one of those staff members will want to attend. She then noted that the cost for a second person to attend will drop. Commissioner Frost stated he feels it would be advantageous for a staff member to attend the workshop, in order to provide the grantwriting capabilities on a long-term basis. Commissioner Goehrung stated that the cost for the first person to attend is $475, with the second, third and fourth persons paying $425 each. He then indicated that only thirty people will be allowed to attend the workshop; and a telephone call last Wednesday revealed there are four or fives spaces yet available. He noted that he has tentatively reserved one of those spaces. It was moved by Commissioner Swanson, seconded by Commissioner Knapp, that the Commission authorize Commissioner Goehrung's attendance at the grantwriting workshop en- titled "Get that Grant: Grantwriting from Conception to Completion, II being held at the Holiday Inn on May 7-10, 1990; and, it being in the public interest, that one-half of the costs be paid by the City. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Commissioner Swanson, Commissioner Knapp, Commissioner Frost, and Mayor Hawks; those voting No, none. Commissioner Goehrung abstained. seed zone stud on City Manager Wysocki reminded the Commission that he had requested this item be removed from the Consent Items. He then asked Director of Public Service Forbes to 04-09-90 II. .. . . . - 5 - briefly highlight this project. The Director of Public Service stated that under this request the State Highway Department would conduct a speed study on 19th Avenue from Durston Road south to the city limits. He cautioned that if his anticipations become reality, the speed limit between Durston Road and Main Street could increase to 30 or 35 mi les per hour. He stated sup- port for that potential change, noting that it would alleviate much of the current traffic congestion on North 20th Avenue, which is a local residential street. The Director of Public Service stated that the request has included the entire length of 19th Avenue within the city limits because former Police Chief Tate had ex- pressed concern about the high speed limit at the intersection of Lincoln Road and South 19th Avenue, where accidents are severe because of the speeds involved. Director of Public Service Forbes cautioned the Commission that once this letter is signed and the speed study is undertaken, there is no turning back. City Manager Wysocki stated that residents along North 20th Avenue have given strong indications that they will approach the City to have the traffic load stopped or the speeds reduced on their street. He concurred with the Director's suggestion that to in- crease the speed limit on North 19th Avenue would encourage traffic to use that street in- stead. In response to a question from Commissioner Swanson, the Director of Public Ser- vice stated that the current speed limit is 25 miles per hour; and it seems to be heavi Iy patrolled. In response to a question from Mayor Hawks, the Director stated that the change in turning lane maneuvers at the intersection of 19th Avenue and West Main Street is a sepa- rate issue from this item. He then noted that the Highway Department has given him verbal assurance that the changes will be made. It was moved by Commissioner Knapp, seconded by Commissioner Goehrung that the Commission authorize and direct the Mayor to sign the letter to the Highway Department requesting that a speed study be done on 19th Avenue from Durston south to the city lim- its. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Com- missioner Knapp, Commissioner Goehrung, Commissioner Frost, Commissioner Swanson and Mayor Hawks; those voting No, none. Discussion - FYI Items City Manager Wysocki presented to the Commission the following "For Your Informa- tion" items. (1) A letter from John A. Tyers, 314 West Villard Street, dated April 2, 1990. concerning the proposed street maintenance districts. 04-09-90 ~:";~, rt;' -., ",' -. .,. '. - 6 - ~ (2) The City Manager presented his weekly report, as follows. (1) Director of Public Service Forbes and Park Superintendent McNeil met with the East Gallatin Task Force re budgeting for maintenance for the upcoming fiscal year. (2) The environmental impact assessment public hearing for the 1-90 interchange was held on Tuesday. (3) Ad- ditional police activities have centered around the sale of alcohol to minors. (4) The engi- neering consultants for Life Link have submitted plans for the sewer system to the State Department of Health and Environmental Sciences; however. no response has yet been made. (5) Staff is working with representatives of Darigold on the proposed land swap. The Historic Preservation Officer is optimistic that the Chamber of Commerce tourist center can be relocated to the subject site prior to this summer's tourism season. (6) The Plan- ning staff is currently conducting a physical survey for any flashing, rotating portable signs that have not yet been unplugged. He reminded the Commission that any portable signs that have been converted to permanent signs are not subject to the interim zoning ordinance restrictions; however, they are subject to the eight-year amortization schedule. (7) A reminder of the Interagency Breakfast scheduled for 7:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 18. (8) He indicated that he and Administrative Services Director Gamradt attended the Great Open Spaces City Management Association (GOSCMA) meeting in Casper last week. He noted that sessions included discussions on entrepreneural cities and customer service programs. He indicated he has information on the customer service program; and the pos- sibility of obtaining that program will be considered during the budgetary process. He then noted that he was elected Vice-President, which means he will be President the fol- lowing year; and the GOSCMA conference will be held in Bozeman that year. (3) Commissioner Knapp state~:lJe attended the EIS hearing on the North 19th Avenue interchange, noting it was very" conducted and brief. (4) Commissioner Knapp stated that she chaired the spring meeting of the Broad Valleys Federation of Libraries meeting held on Saturday. She noted that 21 libraries were represented. (5) Mayor Hawks stated he has received a request from the ROTC program at MSU requesting a letter of recommendation for the department. He indicated that he wi II respond to that request. (6) Mayor Hawks stated he gave a welcome address to the leadership conference of the Future Farmers of America, noting that 33 years ago, he attended the same confer- ence. He then noted that 650 FFA members were in attendance at this year's conference. (7) The City Manager reminded the Commission that they will be conducting a public hearing on the Scientific Materials request for a tax break on their newly-acquired equipment. He then indicated that the owner has extended to the Commissioners an in- vitation to tour their facility some time between Easter and the public hearing so they can 04-09-90 - 7 - become familiar with the operation. He then suggested that the Commissioners discuss this item next week and set a time for touring the facility. Consent Items The City Manager presented to the Commission the following Consent Items. the COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2784 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF BOZEMAN , MONTANA, AUTHORIZING FILING OF APPLICATION WITH THE ENVIRON- MENTAL PROTECTION, AGENCY, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, FOR A GRANT UNDER THE WATER POLLUTION CONTROL ACT (33 U.S.C. 466 ET SEQ. ) 2, - It was moved by Commissioner Goehrung, seconded by Commissioner Frost, that the Commission approve the Consent Items as listed, and authorize and direc't 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. Adjournment - 4:12 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- journed. 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. 04-09-90