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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005-09-26 Minutes, City Commission MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE CITY COMMISSION BOZEMAN, MONTANA September 26, 2005 ***************************** The Commission of the City of Bozeman met in special session in the Community Room, Gallatin County Courthouse, 311 West Main Street, on Monday, September 26,2005, at 7:00 p.m. Present were Mayor Andrew Cetraro, Commissioner Jeff Krauss, Commissioner Marcia Youngman, Commissioner Steve Kirchhoff, Commissioner Lee Hietala, Acting City Manager Ron Brey, Acting Director of Public Safety Bill Dove, City Attorney Paul Luwe and City Clerk Robin Sullivan. The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence. Sianina of Notice of Special Meetina Each of the Commissioners, in turn, signed the Notice of Special Meeting. Public comment No comment was received under this agenda item. Discussion - relief assistance for Hurricane Katrina Included in the Commissioners' packets were a written position statement from the City Manager and several e-mail messages encouraging the Commission to give favorable consideration to Tracy Velazquez' proposal to return the $4 million appropriation for the parking garage in downtown Bozeman to the federal government. Mr. Chris Pope, Chair of Parking Commission, stated his thoughts and heart go out to those who have become victims of both Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita and to the communities needing assistance. He noted that the Parking Commission has chosen to "keep its head down" on this issue. He stressed that this is not a pork project; rather, the Parking Commission has been working on parking issues for the past ten years and on the parking garage specifically for the past three years. He noted that the parking garage has been the subject of a very public process, including discussions, public information meetings and public hearings. If the $4 million in federal funds that were sought and received were not received, the garage could become "an endangered species at best". He noted that the parking garage is good for the health of the downtown as well as the health of the valley by encouraging density development and businesses in the core of the community. He cautioned that the proposal at the local level, to return the monies, bypasses a careful, rigorous and democratic public process and reverses years of hard work; and he finds it irresponsible. He urged the Commissioners to vote no on the proposal to return the monies and to continue on the path of constructing the parking garage. Mr. Michael Phinney, Energy Director of the Human Resource Development Council, provided information on the Energy Share program. He noted that the energy crisis will affect this valley, with the costs of heating anticipated to rise dramatically during the next few months. He stated that, in the meantime, funding of the program has decreased from over $93,000 two years ago to $51,000 this year. He noted that people apply for those monies, and decisions are based on the circumstances presented by the applicant. Those monies may be loaned at no interest or granted, depending on the circumstances. He then indicated there are two programs, one through NorthWestern Energy and one through the Montana Fuel Fund. He concluded by stating he has provide information on those programs in a read file for the Commissioners and indicated a willingness to respond to questions. Mr. Jeff Buchowiski, 310 North Plum Avenue, stated he thinks the nation's priorities are out of order and expressed his strong disagreement with many of the statements that have been quoted in recent weeks. He feels a parking garage in Bozeman is not as important as national needs and encouraged the 09-26-05 - 2 - Commission to return the monies. He noted this would put Bozeman on the map and send the message to Washington that Bozeman does not want to put the nation's future in jeopardy. Ms. Jane Shaw Stroup, 9 West Arnold Street, characterized this as a chance to take a stand for hurricane relief and responsible government and encouraged the Commission to turn back both the $4 million for the parking garage and the $1.125 million for the library that are earmarked in the transportation bill. She noted that both Republican and Democratic political leaders around the country are waiting for a signal from Bozeman to reopen the transportation bill and reconsider the projects included. She then reviewed the signatures contained on a petition that was included in the e-mail messages, noting they represent a cross section of the community and cross political lines. She recognized that when the transportation bill was enacted in August, the $4 million for the parking garage made sense; however, that is no longer the case in light of the deaths in the south. She finds the $24,000 to $27,000 per space cost of constructing a parking garage in Bozeman is not appropriate in light of the loss of possessions, photos and pets as a result of the hurricane. She concluded by asking the Commission to return the monies and to remember that the Congressional delegation works for the citizens. Mr. Michael Robinson, 1115 Kagy Boulevard, encouraged the Commissioners to pass a resolution declining the monies in the transportation bill, notin$ that the arguments on both sides have already been heard. He identified the national deficit in excess of 400 billion next year and the Congressional allocation of $60 billion for hurricane relief as the critical issues to be considered, noting that the return of the monies from the transportation bill would help to reduce deficit. He encouraged the Commissioners to recognize the importance of integrity-both civic and personal-and asked that they do what needs to be done. Mr. Bob Dehlendorf, 1006 West Main Street, noted that this is his fourth appearance before the Commission on this one issue and, during those appearances, he has met the others who have also encouraged the Commission to return the monies from the transportation bill. He characterized this as an opportunity for the Commission to "take the lead for the world to see or to join the herd and submit to the wishes of the Senators". He noted the nation's economy is in shambles and the list of pork projects in the transportation bill simply adds to the spiraling federal debt. He concluded by encouraging the Commission to lead by example by giving back the pork. Ms. Elizabeth Darrow, 603 West Babcock Street, urged the Commission to reallocate the $4 million for the parking garage, noting the issue is bigger than local concern. She stated there is not enough sacrifice being shared as the nation is in crisis, incurring both financial and emotional disaster as a result of the recent hurricanes. She identified this as a rare opportunity for the community to live its values and to reflect what Americans pride themselves on. Mr. Larry Bowman, 36 East Main Street, questioned whether this is a discussion on the parking garage, Hurricane Katrina or federal spending. He then stressed that downtown businesses need the parking garage, and noted there are better ways to deal with the issue of Hurricane Katrina than returning those monies. Mr. Paul Reichert, Downtown Bozeman Partnership, encouraged the Commission to retain the $4 million for the parking structure. He stressed that the $4 million in federal monies is matched by local funds, which is unheard of in transportation projects. As a result of this leveraging, he indicated the federal funding is not for a pork project. Ms. Ashley Ogle, 526 West Cameron Bridge Road, expressed her support for the parking garage. Mr. Andrew Gerlach, 430 South Black Avenue, encouraged the Commission to turn down the federal monies, stating that he has been traveling around the country recently and has had associates indicate they are watching to see what Bozeman does. He acknowledged that the parking garage has been the subject of a public process; however, he stated that, until recently, he was not aware that federal funds were to be a part of the project. He concluded by expressing his support for returning the federal monies. Mr. Chris Naumann, memberofthe Downtown Bozeman Improvement District Board (IDB), stressed that this is not a pork project; in fact, tax increment monies are to be used as matching monies for the federal dollars. He stated this project will benefit the downtown and the community as a whole as it faces additional growth along 19th Avenue and in other areas of the community. He further noted that the $4 million is not sitting in the bank and, therefore, is not available for return as proposed. 09-26-05 - 3 - Ms. Christina Hayes, 1430 South Third Avenue, stated that human beings have the moral obligation to help the poor, sick and elderly as well as the victims of Hurricane Katrina. She noted that if the City does not return the federal monies, it is sending the message to fellow citizens that our parking garage is more important than their needs or being fiscally conservative. She stated she would proudly walk a few more blocks to help others and to lessen the burden of debt on future generations. Ms. Thail Davis, Downtown Bozeman Partnership, reminded the Commission that natural disasters and wars happen throughout the world on a constant basis. She stressed the need for a parking garage, noting it is important to strengthen the local community so it can be better prepared to deal with hard times and disasters. Mr. Levi Sundeen, 526 West Cameron Bridge Road, noted that in times of disaster, one looks to family and friends for strength and support. This community's citizens are asking how they can help the victims; and he does not believe that returning the $4 million earmarked for the parking garage would provide the assistance to the hurricane victims that those encouraging the return are seeking. He reminded the Commissioners that people have been working over the last decade to rebuild the downtown, the hallmark of the community; and it has taken over nine years to raise the local revenues necessary to undertake the project and two years to obtain the matching funds. He concluded by encouraging the Commission to not sell the community's future for another community's short-term needs. Ms. Tracy Velazquez, 503 West Olive Street, stated she did not realize when she came to the Commission three weeks ago that so much attention would be unleashed throughout the Unite States. She noted that even poor countries are contributing monies to hurricane relief, and one of the most touching e- mails she received was from outside the United States. She then indicated her request is for the Commission to lead the nation with western sensibility and to discouraging leaving the bill for future generations. Ms. Carol Townsend, Executive Director of United Way, stated that within days after Hurricane Katrina, her office was besieged with phone calls from those wanting to help, and the result was the development of "Operation Helping Hands". The United Way has also worked with a community in Louisiana that is similar to Bozeman and is now housing 20,000 evacuees from the hurricane. She noted that under this coordinated effort, the United Way is asking the Commission to approve a proclamation for "Operation Helping Hands" during the week of October 1 0 and to wear a $2 sticker. She recognized the importance of protecting this community's own fragile health and human service programs but noted this coordinated effort is one way to make a difference in a community in Louisiana. Mr. Steve Schnee, 108 Silverwood Drive, reminded the Commission that the parking garage has been a ten-year endeavor and encouraged them to remember the downtown is committed to matching the federal monies. Commissioner Krauss expressed his support for the points contained in the City Manager's position paper. Commissioner Kirchhoff thanked those who have spoken at Commission meetings over the past three weeks, noting that the comments have covered a wide variety of issues including what's wrong with politics, the American spirit, and what's wrong with the federal government. He believes the federal allocations are a boost to the attempts of dedicated individuals in this community to make something good happen here. He endorses the City Manager's recommendations, noting that this does not infringe on the rights of individuals to give to the relief effort. Further, he noted the City has taken steps to provide meaningful assistance through making its personnel and equipment available for the clean-up and rebuilding efforts and through its partnership with United Way. He stressed that these are much more practical than the symbolic gesture that has been proposed. He concluded by stressing the importance of providing for those in need locally through the energy share program that has been suggested. Commissioner Hietala stated gulf region has gained a huge outpouring of assistance because of the horrendous damage, with an initial $62 billion in federal funds and an anticipated $300 billion in costs over the next several years. He noted that a wide variety of fundraising efforts are underway, allowing Americans across the country to assist as possible and suggested that is a more appropriate way to address the issue. He stated the congressional delegation has come out against returning the $4 million, and noted the federal administration and congress must determine how to address this natural disaster. He 09-26-05 -- ------- --------------- - 4 - recognized that those who have requested return of the federal monies have their hearts in the right place, but stressed that Bozeman needs to build its economy. Commissioner Krauss stated that, as a Commissioner, it is his responsibility to accept the federal monies and ensure they are used for the proper purpose. He noted that re-opening the federal transportation bill is a federal delegation decision and not a City Commission decision. He then observed that this is not about helping Hurricane Katrina victims; they will be helped whether the parking garage is built or not. It is also not about charity, because that is a personal obligation, and there are many different kinds of programs across the country for providing that assistance. Nor is it about balancing the federal deficit, which requires a number of revisions in national policy not under the province of the City Commission. On the other hand, he noted a strong downtown will pay dividends in Bozeman, and the federal appropriation will help proVide that. He then noted that the $4 million is not sitting in a local bank; and $1.1 million in liabilities have been accrued to date for the parking garage project. He concluded by stating he will do the responsible thing, which is to use the monies for what they have been appropriated. Commissioner Youngman stated she strongly supports both projects that have received federal funding but would be willing to give back a percentage of the monies if necessary. She stressed that the community is already sacrificing other projects to allow the parking garage and library to move forward, and fundraising efforts have been taking place for several years on both projects. She noted one option is for the City to also create an official sister city relationship with Alexandria, Louisiana, or some other city in the south to further focus assistance. She then voiced her support for the City Manager's statement, part because of the inclusion of an energy share program for local low-income residents. She stated that, partly due to Hurricane Katrina, NorthWestern Energy is projecting a 30 to 50-percent rate increase for natural gas, which will further negatively impact the community's poor who are often wearing jackets in their homes in the winter. She noted the local program is already encountering a $100,000 shortfall not counting that rate increase and suggested that the City consider assistance for that program. She further noted that, with the upcoming Montana League of Cities and Towns Convention, it may be possible to take a statewide stand for this program. Mayor Cetraro stated that he, too, agrees with the points made in the City Manager's statement regarding disaster relief. Acting City Manager Ron Brey suggested that the amount of assistance through the Energy Share program can be set now or in the resolution establishing the program. Commissioner Kirchhoff suggested that the City Manager and Director of Finance be directed to work with the Human Resource Development Council to assess the scope of population to be assisted and the monies needed to do so. He also voiced support for investigating the sister city relationship. Commissioner Krauss stated he is interested in how NorthWestern Energy and PPL might match local contributions. He also asked how the monies will be leveraged to provide maximum assistance to those in need and suggested that discussion at the League Convention might provide for an even stronger program. Commissioner Kirchhoff cautioned that if local government steps in and fills the energy share gap, it is essentially taking care of the gap that should be filled by the State. As a result, while he is committed to doing something for local citizens, he feels it's still important to put pressure on the State to do its part. Acting City Manager Brey stressed that, if the City acts alone, the monies must be earmarked in a specific way; if the City can work through a Montana League of Cities and Towns program, the use of those monies can be under a broader scope. Commissioner Hietala recognized the need and stated it is important to assess how to participate before moving forward. Responding to Commissioner Youngman, a majority of the Commissioners expressed an interest in pursuing a sister city relationship with a city in the south. It was moved by Commissioner Krauss, seconded by Commissioner Youngman, that the Commission adopt the City Manager's statement as its position on providing assistance for the victims of Hurricane Katrina, including the proposal to return the $4 million appropriation for the parking garage in 09-26-05 - 5 - downtown Bozeman to the federal government. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Commissioner Krauss, Commissioner Youngman, Commissioner Kirchhoff, Commissioner Hietala and Mayor Cetraro; those voting No, none. The Commissioners directed staff to bring back a resolution addressing the City's contribution to the Energy Share program for low-income residents in light of the reduced funding for that program and the impending increased costs for utility services and to bring back more information on the potential sister city relationship with Alexandria, Louisiana, or another similar community in the area. Proclamation - "Operation Helpina Hands Week" - October 10-14,2005 Included in the Commissioners' packets was a proclamation designating October 10 through 14, 2005, as "Operation Helping Hands Week". It was moved by Commissioner Kirchhoff, seconded by Commissioner Hietala, that the Commission concur in the Mayor's proclamation of October through 14,2005, as "Operation Helping Hands Week". The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting Aye being Commissioner Kirchhoff, Commissioner Hietala, Commissioner Krauss, Commissioner Youngman and Mayor Cetraro; those voting No, none. Discussion - FYI Items The following "For Your Information" items were forwarded to the Commission. (1 ) Letter of resignation from the Planning Board and Zoning Commission, submitted by Sarah Alexander, dated September 18 and effective immediately. ~2) Letter from Bob and Joyce Dynes encouraging City to address issues in the 400 block of North 9t Avenue that make the area less livable. (3) Letter from Jerome and Arlyss Nelson, 1017 Boylan Road, dated September 19, regarding the proposed zoning for the 12-acre parcel adjacent to the East Gallatin Recreation Area. (4) Postcard from Jan Elpel, 8215 Fowler Lane, thanking the Commission for its decision to direct haul to the Logan landfill. (5) E-mail from John Sommerto Neighborhood Coordinator Tracy Oulman regarding the Fowler Avenue improvements between West Babcock Street and Durston Road. (6) Updated list of planning projects to be considered at upcoming Commission meetings, dated September 22. (7) Copy of a letter from Jose Castro, Bozeman District Ranger, and City Manager Kukulski to Bozeman area residents regarding the proposed fuels reduction activities to be undertaken within the municipal watershed. (8) Notice that the County Commission meetings for Tuesday, September 27, and Wednesday, September 28, have been cancelled. (9) Agenda for the County Planning Board meeting to be held at 6:30p.m. on Tuesday, September 27, at the Courthouse. (10) Agenda for the Development Review Committee meeting to be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 28, at the Professional Building. (11) Agenda for the Design Review Board meeting to be held at 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 28, at the Professional Building. 09-26-05 ------ - 6 - (8) Commissioner Youngman submitted the following. (1) Attended meetings regarding a wetlands regeneration project in the northeast neighborhood that actually links to the library site. (2) Attended the first two meetings of the NorthEast Urban Renewal Plan Committee, which were productive. She noted the committee members are currently brainstorming and listening to each other well and will be moving into discussion of the details. She then stated the committee is trying to have the plan completed before the end of the year, and indicated that Commissioner Kirchhoff will become the Commission Liaison to that committee. (3) Asked who will serve as the City's voting delegate at the League of Cities and Towns Convention; it was determined that she and Commissioner Hietala will make that determination. (9) Commissioner Krauss submitted the following. (1) Attended the informational meeting on the special improvement district for the Durston Road project. (2) Announced he will be out of town on October 24. (10) Mayor Cetraro stated he has a potential conflict with the October 17 meeting and asked if the StoneRidge project can be moved to the October 10 meeting. (11) City Clerk Robin Sullivan gave a brief overview of the business improvement district, its impending expansion and assessments for the upcoming year. (12) Responding to Commissioner Krauss, the City Clerk stated that a work session with the Local Government Study Commission has been scheduled for December 12. (13) Commissioner Krauss asked when the Commission will once again consider proposed revisions to the unified development ordinance; Acting City Manager Brey indicated that work sessions will be scheduled at 6:00 p.m. weekly beginning as soon as possible. (14) Commissioner Youngman asked which Commission meetings may be cancelled around the Christmas holidays. Following discussion, the Commission agreed the December 27 meeting should be cancelled. Adjournment - 8:35 p.m. There being no further business to come before the Commission at this time, it was moved by Commissioner Kirchhoff, seconded by Commissioner Hietal that the meeting be adjourned. The motion carried by the following Aye and No vote: those voting 1'-" <ling Commissioner Kirchhoff, Commissioner Hietala, Commissioner Krauss, Commissioner Youngm 111 n~ Mayor Cetraro; those voting No, none. ----,-.- U-- - ATTEST: ~./~ R IN L. SULLIVAN City Clerk 09-26-05