HomeMy WebLinkAbout1999-0706.REG.MIN MINUTES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING
ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL
3uly 6, 1999
Civic Center Council Chambers, 1175 E. Main Street
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Shaw called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m., in the Civic Center Council Chambers.
ROLL CALL
Councilors Laws, Reid, Hauck. Hanson, Wheeldon and Fine were present.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes of the regular meeting of June 15, 1999 were approved as presented.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS & AWARDS
I. Presentation and third annual report on Implementation of the Valdez Principles.
Administrative Services Director & Conservation Manager Dick Wanderscheid presented his third annual report to the
Council, noting that the report included in the Council's packet has 67 items, 17 of which are new this year. Noted some
highlights from the report, including: the Granite Street Quarry Restoration Project, the Certified Wood Program, the
Water Master Plan, the Wise Resource Usage Booklet to be funded and mailed to all residents, the water conserving
garden tour which occurred earlier this year, new irrigation efficiency pilot programs, the straw bale classroom, the green
business program, the Adopt-A-Street program, the Water Wise newspaper articles by conservation commissioners on
water efficiency, the revision of the city's styrofoam ordinance, the Street Department' s use of water-based paints, efforts
made for Y2K preparedness, the CERT program, educational videos being made in conjunction with RVTV, efforts made
to improve public safety by the Police and Fire Departments working with schools, the installation of new fuel tanks at
the B Street yard and the airport, and the Water Quality Report to be completed in July as required under the Clean Water
/~ct. Wanderscheid explained why the net metering policy was included and that Ashland is the only utility in the
Northwest currently doing this.
Wheeldon questioned how to handle challenges to city projects when these challenges are based on the Valdez Principles.
Wanderscheid suggested that the Principles need to serve as a filter and recognized that there will be conflicts.
Emphasized that the Valdez Principles cannot be the only concern in any project. Explained the need to work day-to-day
to achieve greater compliance with the principles and the need to weigh different trade-offs. Stated that regardless of
the choices made, the City should continue to conserve and do what is right. Reiterated that the Principles are a filter
and cannot be all-overriding. Emphasized that conflict can and will occur, but also emphasized the need to recognize
the value of the principles.
Laws noted the need to look at broad principles in terms of specific application and stated that decisions are often a
matter of interpretation. Reid pointed out that even among experts, there can be frequent disagreement.
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Minutes of Boards, Commissions and Committees.
The following corrections were noted to the June 17th study session minutes:
On pare 4, ninth paragraph down, the page should read: "Mayor Shaw feels that the City should look into the
feasibility of acquiring the property for future expansion and renting it out. Given the cost of the building and land
increasing in Ashland, it could be a good decision, especially if there is some chance that the fire station may be
expanded in years to come. If feasible, she felt that the cost of acquiring the property should be rolled into the
bond."
On pa~e 4, tenth paragraph should begin: "Shaw inquired of Ettlin... ", rather than being attributed to Freeman.
On pa~e 5, fourth paragraph from the bottom of the page, should begin: "Councilor Reid felt that the budget
meetings could be more precise and compact."
City Council Mintues 07/08/1999 Page 1 of 9
On pa~e 5, third paragraph from the bottom of the page, should read: "Mayor Shaw feels that we should continue
with subcommittees such as CDBG. Human Services and Economic Development, where they can properly focus
on the issues."
On page 6, ninth paragraph down should read: "Councilor Reid said that boards and commissions vary greatly, and
she wouldn't want to homogenize the process. She felt that currently, some commissioners are used to dealing with
big budgets and she would not like it changed so they had less power."
On parse 7, last paragraph should read: "Councilor Hanson agreed that this is an interesting concept and would like
it brought up at first meeting in July."
Wheeldon expressed concern that Forest Commission members Binnewies and Brock were listed as absent in the
minutes, and yet both had statements attributed to them during the discussion which occurred at the meeting.
Councilors Wheeldon/Reid m/s to approve the consent agenda, with the amended study session minutes. Voice
vote: All AYES. Motion passed.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
I. Public Hearing regarding transportation SDCs.
Director of Community Development John McLaughlin discussed the history of transportation SDCs. Explained that
originally, transportation SDCs were based on the concept that growth requires more transportation facilities. Stated that
calculations were based on the number of new trips generated by a project. Explained that because the transportation
element and the transportation system plan have been adopted, $40 m il lion in transportation projects have been identified.
36% of these projects are not SDC eligible and the remainder of these have growth components. Looking these projects
over, $8.3 million of the total $40 million relate to growth.
Fhe new methodology applies SDCs where most appropriate, based on buildable lands inventory, spatial analysis and
usage projections. With $8 million to be assigned to growth over the next 20 years, growth was looked at in terms of
comprehensive plan projections and this was modeled to determine new trips per day. The result was that 39,000 new
trips per day are projected over the next twenty years. For each new trip, the $8 million dollars in growth related
improvements, was divided by the number of trips to determine a cost per trip and this per trip cost was used to determine
the SDCs for new developments. This takes into account population, transportation and economic elements of the
comprehensive plan consolidated with the transportation system plan to comply with state statutes. This results in a
larger transportation SDC than the current charges. Explained that the current transportation SDC for a single family
dwelling is $324 and the new methodology would bring these charges to $2040. Because of this increase, staff
recommends that this new methodology be phased within a three-phased process, beginning in August. The current
single family dwelling SDC of $324 would go to $888 in August for the first phase; to $1471 in January of 2000 in phase
2: and then to $2040 in July of 2000. Explained that these charges are substantial, but are based on determined
community needs. These SDCs represent the portion of costs that can be assigned to growth and be recovered; other
money will need to come from other sources, such as street user fees, LIDs, federal money, state money, gas tax, bond
measures, and etc. This is a necessary component to achieve the improvements identified as necessary over the next
twenty years.
Reid questioned whether the building community and general public are aware of these raises. McLaughlin noted that
two builders and representatives of the Chamber of Commerce were represented on the SDC Committee. Reid
emphasized the need to communicate these raises before a decision is made, suggesting that a notice be posted at the
Planning counter. Reid raised the issue of the need to distinguish by home size when charging SDCs. McLaughlin stated
that these distinctions have not been made for single family residences. Similarly, multi-family residences are charged
per unit, and those over 1500 square feet are charged at the single family residential rate. Reid questioned if the
"concentric rings" concept was discussed in the SDC Committee. McLaughlin explained that this was discussed, but
that because of Ashland's relatively small size, this was not done. Emphasized that the only Oregon city using this
method is Salem. Explained that in general, the type of uses and job centers require trips no matter where one lives.
Stated that the proposal tries to find the best fit for the general application. Pointed out that the home size issue is much
the same, as even large homes may have few residents and generate fewer trips. Emphasized that the national average
City Council Mintues 07/08/1999 Page 2 of 9
numbers clearly support this. Pointed out that methodology needs to be clear for administration and occupancy is much
more a factor than size, and they have tried to find some equity.
Shaw noted the Committee's discussions of taking into account a home's proximity to urban centers. Based on the
information they had, it appears that size did not coincide to the number of trips and the general overall formula was
logical.
Reid emphasized need to notice the building public beyond merely publishing in the local paper and the need to take
advantage of the opportunity to give this information out at the counter where permits are issued. McLaughlin confirmed
that planners have fielded at least 30 calls so far to explain this issue to the building public. Also pointed out that permits
submitted prior to the date the methodology changes will be calculated with the current formula.
Wheeldon noted the connection to the Transportation Plan, which is very balanced and feels it balanced out driving,
sidewalks, bike lanes, and better safety and configurations. This helped her not to dwell on home size, as benefits are
broad-based and the single rate is equitable based on the number of trips.
Freeman noted his attendance of a Chamber Board meeting where they discussed the SDC proposal. Explained that the
methodology came at the request of the business community and they wanted to be able to plan based on methodology
and a specific stated long term plan. Emphasized that this methodology is clear and straight-forward. Also stated that
it is sensible to tie to the Transportation System Plan.
McLaughlin noted the refinement added to previous methodology, as it includes length trip analysis to add more balance.
Public Hearing opened at 7:40 p.m.
Larry Medinger, of Medinger Construction/115 Fork St./Member of SDC Committee/Noted that he missed the last
SDC meeting, but that he has been involved in the process on an Ad Hoc level for nine years. Raised two issues: 1)
Stated that he is worried about young restaurantcurs thinking of starting a business in Ashland who would need to pay
$80 thousand to build a new restaurant. Noted that while there is ordinance protection for commercial areas and that
McLaughlin has assured him that transportation SDC would not be charged downtown if converting an existing
commercial structure, he still is concerned for the effects this would have on a start-up restaurant like Morning Glory.
Feels that another way needs to be found to collect these SDCs. Suggested an appeals process to come before the
Planning Commission, with the possibility of charging the SDCs over time rather than an up-front charge. Emphasized
that twenty year financing would make these charges more manageable. 2) Feels there is a need to encourage smaller,
more ecologically sound buildings. Suggested that charges could be based on square footage as built, with a sliding fee
scale.
Wheeldon questioned if this would only apply to restaurants. Medinger explained that many businesses are not as long
term as residences and he had looked at restaurants because of the high SDC cost for fixtures and etc. Stated that
restaurants were just an example and he feels that any business should be allowed an appeal.
Wheeldon questioned encouraging smaller houses with a sliding scale. Medinger feels that while it may not be
appropriate for tonight's discussion, it would be an excellent ad hoc discussion to be looked at next, before the water
SDCs are addressed.
Shaw noted that Chateaulin has been in business 20 years. Stated that other restaurants frequently change owners and
questioned who would assume an on-going SDC obligation when ownership changes. Emphasized that SDCs should
not be a planning management tool. Noted that she would like to encourage home businesses and though they require
larger square footage, they use the roads less.
Reid asked for McLaughlin to explain the example of Standing Stone, which was formerly Pioneer Glass in the
downtown district. McLaughlin stated that because it was an existing commercial use in a commercial zone they would
not pay transportation SDCs. In contrast, Morning Glory was a residence in a commercial zone and the change of land
use category of the structure would bring these SDCs into play. Emphasized that the proposal would encourage the re-
use of buildings and would not encourage sprawl.
City Council Mintues 07/08/1999 Page 3 of 9
Reid stated that while she does not fault process, she feels that all builders need to be made aware of potential impacts,
and the community must understand the pending increase.
Medinger noted the role of the Housing Commission and stated that he feels this SDC would be an element to encourage
the building of small, affordable homes over larger ones. Feels that further discussion would be fruitful.
Reid feels that lot size is also important and can be looked at. McLaughlin noted that size could be looked at, but
emphasized that the methodology presented is looking at the potential number of trips in a manner similar to usage with
water. This is to accommodate peak demand. Explained that changes over time will balance out if potential peak
demand is considered. If refined, there may be more exceptions created.
Shaw stated that the methodology is needed and pointed out that while she is not opposed to looking at the size of homes,
she feels this needs to be addressed directly rather than through SDCs.
Reid stated that this represents an opportunity for a carrot and stick approach and expressed her fears that the new
methodology would encourage large chain restaurants.
Medinger reiterated his preference for an appeals process.
Reid stated that she feels an appeals process is not likely, as SDCs need to be applicable across the board without
discouraging the development of smaller, individual businesses.
Laws noted agreement with Shaw and expressed his concern with using what is essentially a tax to achieve other goals.
Feels that other issues should be dealt with directly. Also, explained that he has learned from living with the SDC idea
from long ago that it should be kept as simple as possible and should be fair on the surface - though this makes
exceptions difficult. Stated that this methodology is elegant, simple and fair in using actual costs for additions.
Emphasized that any changes to the methodology will negatively impact the perceived fairness and urged that these
points be considered before making changes to the policy.
Public Hearing closed at: 8:06 pm.
2. Public Hearing to consider a recommendation to issue $3.14 million in general obligation bonds for the
construction of a 13,000 sq. ft. fire station.
Assistant City Administrator Greg Scoles, Fire Chief Keith WoodIcy and Hans Ettlin, of PSE Architects, came forward
to provide information for Council. Scoles noted that this is a follow-up on previous discussions and gave a brief history.
Noted that the current plan is for 13,000 square feet, and a lesser budget. Pointed out that they have had the adjacent
property, which must be acquired to accomplish expansion, appraised. Emphasized that it would be impossible to expand
without this acquisition. Scoles noted the drawings which illustrate the proposed building in relation to the existing
structures. Explained that the proposal would add about $0.24 per $1000 assessed value to resident property taxes and
the combined measure would add around $0.70 per $1000, with the inclusion of the library. Emphasized that the initial
proposal would have added $0.65 per $1000 for just the library.
Reid concerned with addressing both items as one measure and questioned how staff had gotten to this point.
Shaw gave history noting that in a previous public hearing, Councilor Fine had suggested delaying until this was
discussed. Staff was directed to prepare both options and allow council to direct on either or both. Emphasized that
coupling the two issues was the direction from the previous meeting, as it was believed that combined they were more
likely to result in the necessary 50% voter turnout.
Reid explained her concern with coupling projects on the ballot, emphasizing that while they can be on the ballot
together, that they should not be presented as one item.
Freeman confirmed that he believed it was Fine' s suggestion to couple the two and that it was also understood that there
was a Council consensus for this coupling. Fine confirmed that this had been his suggestion, as the two projects have
co-equal importance and should be combined as one issue.
City Council Mintues 07/08/1999 Page 4 of 9
%coles noted that both the notice and the agenda speak only to the Fire Station, as the library was previously noticed.
Explained that no public hearing or notice is required for either, so this was an "extra." hearing. Stated that the Council
could request splitting the t~vo items.
Ettlin stated that Council was familiar with the plans, and emphasized that there are not many changes, but just interior
adjustments. Noted that they have modified and clarified the site plan. Explained that this information is what was
needed to get adequate pricing for the bond. Laws questioned the ~'day room", and Ettlin confirmed that this was
included and required no additional cost.
Public Hearing opened at: 8:20 p.m.
Chuck Keil/586 East Main St./Stated that he is a business owner near the Blue Mountain Caf6 and expressed his
concern with the process used in deciding to put the Blue Mountain out of business. Concerned with alternatives that
were considered and suggested a smaller, third station on the north end of town. Questioned why Studios Inn had not
been looked at, since it is for sale. Also stated that he hates to see this issue coupled with the library, as people deserve
the opportunity to vote on these issues separately.
David Frye/1260 Kirk Lane/Introduced himself as owner of the Blue Mountain for the past nine years. Asked if he
could count on the Council to find a way to keep the Blue Mountain viable. Council confirmed that he could. Shaw
noted that the voters still need to approve this matter. Shaw noted that they had looked at the Studio, but that the election
results need to be in before real discussion can occur. Shaw emphasized that her door is always open. Reid expressed
her reluctance to speak with a tenant about breaking a lease/contract. Shaw clarified that if this matter is approved by
the voters, this land would be acquired. Wheeldon questioned if Frye has spoken to his landlord. Frye stated that he
would like to look at keeping the spirit of the restaurant moving ahead. Laws noted the need to find a method to keep
Blue Mountain viable and stated that staff are already looking for possibilities. Explained that staff are constrained by
the need for the election to occur and the issue of dealing with the owner versus the tenant.
John Fields/845 Oak St./Stated that his wife is very loyal to the Blue Mountain. Noted the difficulty created by the
corner at the present Fire Station location and the question of architectural compatibility. Stated that he has a problem
with some of the elements, including the structure being greenhouse like. Stated that he would prefer that it be on the
Elks Comer. Sha~v conrimmed that this is a conceptual design. Emphasized that this is an idea and that there will be the
opportunity for changes, but not changes in the money end. Fields explained that this project is being pushed forward
by the need for a fire station, but that there is a better location possible. Stated that iftonight's decision is locking in to
this design, he should have become involved earlier, and would like more input on the appearance.
Tom Katsantones/1052 Paradise Lane/Stated that he had attended the open house. Expressed his concern thatthe early
dealings have been with the property owner and not the business owner. Feels that the option to buy this property needs
to be locked in and feels that there will be a cost to reimburse the business owner. Suggests that it would be easier for
the voters if these costs were known up front. Shaw explained the process and emphasized the need for voter approval
of the bond prior to the City 's proceeding. Stated that relocation costs were discussed, but are not set. Katsantones again
suggested that an option should be in place. Also stated that he feels the alternate sites were studied adequately, but
questioned putting the fire station on the bond with the library as one issue.
Public Hearing closed at: 8:38 p.m.
Shaw clarified that a third fire station would require additional land, construction of a new building and additional
staffing which would push up the price of a bond considerably. As far as the present location, it is the best possible
location and was determined to be the site of choice for the best response times. Emphasized that efforts were made to
buy Blue Mountain when the property was available and at that time the Council chose not to pursue it in hopes of
moving to Garfield Park. Reiterated that in a study that was done, it was found that the best locations for fire stations
in Ashland are exactly where they are. Noted that discussion of moving to the Elks site occurred, butthere was a concern
with using such a large commercial property downtown. Emphasized that it was discussed with the Elks, but it didn't
work out.
City Council Mintues 07/08/1999 Page 5 of 9
Fine noted that for response times, minutes do count and the suggestion to move the station to East Main Street and
Mountain Avenue would add precious minutes to response times. Emphasized that the City has a responsibility to
maintain optimal response times by maintaining the station where it is. Stated that he would like to retain Blue Mountain
and will speak with the business owner to work for relocation. Concluded that if there must be a decision between the
best location or moving and increasing risks, the Council must choose the best location.
Hauck added that other places looked at involved removal of existing businesses as well, which would require relocation
fi3r other businesses. And, these other sites that were considered, would have worse response times. Shaw pointed out
that the Hillah Temple was even considered. but because of downtown traffic this location was not feasible.
Laws noted that: 1 ) The present station is inadequate, unsafe and does not perform up to the necessary standard; 2)
Financially, it is unwise to place a third station in a city ofAshland's size; and 3) For the best response with two stations,
the stations must remain where they are. Emphasized that if another location was a better option, or a cheaper one, it
would have been chosen.
Mayor Shaw read comments from Russ Silberger into the record.
Freeman noted that the Studio 55 property is not needed for this project and stated that if it were required he would
recommend that it be purchased. Because Blue Mountain is between the Fire Station and Studio 55, Studio 55 could not
be used in lieu of Blue Mountain. Freeman emphasized that an appraisal was done by a certified professional and he
feels that there is no discrepancy between the appraisal of the property and its value. Freeman emphasized that he had
spoken to the appraiser, and the appraiser is confident in his accuracy.
Wheeldon questioned ifrelocation of the Blue Mountain was included in this appraisal. Freeman stated that it was not,
but that the property owner will have the option to use the funds as he sees fit. Suggested that relocation will be the
property owner's responsibility and noted that the Council has the option of adding relocation costs to reimburse the
lessee/business owner.
Wheeldon noted that there had been discussions of combining the Blue Mountain with the Fire Station and emphasized
that all involved are looking for creative solutions and keeping the business owner in mind.
Hanson pointed out that there is a property owner involved and this owner has not been unwilling to sell.
PUBLIC FORUM None.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
!. Presentation and discussion regarding the proposed elevator for Fire Station #1.
Freeman noted that this item was included as it had not been fully discussed previously and because it needs to be
resolved.
Fine explained that the architect has stated that an elevator is required under the Americans with Disabilities Act
¢ADA) and noted that the price of an elevator is roughly $65,000. Pointed out that all public buildings of more than
one floor require an elevator under ADA, unless they are declared exempt. Fine stated that an elevator would serve
only firefighters, who must be able as a requirement of their jobs. Also noted that there is an annual maintenance
cost of nearly $2,000 and over a service life of forty years, maintenance would cost the City roughly $89,000.
Emphasized that this cost would be for an elevator that is not regularly in use.
Fine reiterated that Ashland Fire has no need for an elevator. Noted that while school groups could use the elevator
during tours, many other departments do not allow public access.
Fine explained that the city's congressional delegate checked with the Department of Justice and was advised that the
city should not seek an exemption as, in the future, a fire department administrator might be disabled. Fine
suggested that the requirements of the job preclude this possibility. Further noted that service personnel, such as
telephone installers, might need to use an elevator, but pointed out that the city would be responsible for its own
telephone and electric wiring into and through the building.
City Council Mintues 07/08/1999 Page 6 of 9
Fine concluded that the reasons are not sufficiently convincing to spend $154,000 for an unwanted elevator. Stated
that the only plausible reason would be to comply with the ADA as citizens must, but pointed out that ADA has a
variance provision and the city would need to plead its case before a board. Stated that the elevator is a policy
decision and that while the city is obligated to assist the handicapped there is no cause for handicapped access here.
Fine emphasized that in his opinion, only an able individual would fulfill duties of the job, but he would defer to the
experts.
Reid clarified that the $154,000 cost is spread over forty years, and suggested that in that time a supervisor could be
disabled, even temporarily. Emphasized that she would like to be able to employ a disabled administrator if the
opportunity arises in the future. Pointed out that with an elevator, the city would also be able to contract for services
lbr painting, cleaning, etc. with anyone. Suggested that the building needs to be built for the future, with the option
to encompass a changing community. Concluded that she would rather meet the requirement than spend public funds
to fight it.
Hauck stated that ADA is primarily a civil rights act and emphasized that he is firmly opposed to the city seeking an
exemption to a civil rights act. Stated that an elevator would provide a margin of comfort over time to allow ADA
compliance.
Laws stated that the city would be seeking a variance because there are no exceptions, however, stated that there are
possibilities which could bring a handicapped person onto the site. Stated that there could always be possible
exceptions and he feels that it would be fighting a losing battle to save a little money.
Hauck emphasized that retrofitting the fire station for compliance later would be very difficult and costly. Wheeldon
noted the enormity of the project to retrofit city hall recently.
Ettlin clarified that the applicable laws are ADA, which is tort driven, and Oregon state law which made ADA part
of the state's uniform building code, which makes it a state requirement. Explained that inclusion of the elevator in
the design was an attempt to comply with the state statute.
Shaw stated that she appreciates Fine's attempt to save public funds, but she agrees that there is a need to set an
example. Also noted that civic buildings can house many functions over their lifetime and need to be designed to
speak to permanence, pride, and keeping options open.
Fine stated that the federal ADA adopted by the state is a broadsword, applied broadly, and these circumstances fit
exactly the intent of the appeals process. Emphasized that he is opposed to substance over intention.
Wheeldon noted that in the recent past, curb cuts were put where there were no sidewalks. Now these sidewalks are
in and the value of the cuts is apparent. Emphasized that ADA issues will be addressed more in the future and so
should be put in now with an eye to the future.
Discussion of whether there was a need to discuss this matter further, with a consensus being reached to move on.
NEW AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS
I. Council Meeting Look Ahead.
Freeman noted that this item was for informational purposes and stated that he was available to answer any questions
the Council might have. Noted that there was no study session on Thursday, July 8. Shaw noted that she will be absent
for the month of August.
ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND CONTRACTS
I. Reading by title only of"A Resolution Adopting Water Connection Fees and Water Use Fees
Pursuant to Section 14.04.030 of the Ashland Municipal Code and Repealing Resolutions 97-23."
Shaw expressed her concern with a fee increase to finance increased maintenance system costs. Suggested that if the
increase is not due to the intertie project, it needs to be revisited.
City Council Mintues 07/08/1999 Page 7 of 9
Public Works Director Paula Brown explained that the intertie will be funded 75% from SDCs and 25% from fees.
Freeman noted that this increase is 100% operations and maintenance required and is due to added staff and the small
size of this fund. Emphasized that the second two increases will be for capital projects, improvements and the TAP
intertie and line. Shaw stated that she did not recall that O&M costs were discussed and thought it was to be for the
intertie only.
Reid questioned whether the wet spring was an issue. Brown stated that this was a very good revenue year~ but
noted that they are looking long range, at three years down the road. Emphasized that they have added one employee
and there will be further increases for projects to follow. This initial increase is to address O&M.
Reid stated that she wants stable rates and suggested looking longer term. Discussed previous rate reduction and the
water rate study. Wheeldon stated that she feels it was acceptable that rates were corrected in 1997 and emphasized
that the previous decrease lessens the actua] overall increase. Tumer discussed the history of water rates and
explained that there is now a need to re-address bill frequency data, including both small and large users. Noted that
the two previous years have been extreme and are excellent for analysis. Emphasized that data is also being looked
at with the plant and distribution ends separately. Emphasized that there is a need to look at all of these statistics
over the next year.
Councilors Laws/Hanson m/s to adopt Resolution #99-41. Roll call vote: Laws, Reid, Hanson, and Wheeldon:
YES. Hauck and Fine: NO. Motion passed 4-2.
2. Reading by title only of "A Resolution Adopting a New Transportation Systems Development Change
Methodology and Charges, Pursuant to Sections 4.20.040 and 4.20.050 of the Ashland Municipal
Code."
Reid expressed her concern that the public had not been adequately made aware of this new methodology and
suggested that it needs to be posted at the counter in Planning prior to a decision. Hauck pointed out that there have
been front page articles informing the public of these increases in the Tidings and the Tribune. Fine suggested that a
better effort needs to be made in the future to notify those to be affected.
Councilors Hauck/Wheeldon m/s to adopt Resolution #99-42. Roll call vote: Hauck, Hanson, Wheeldon,
Fine, and Laws: YES. Reid: NO. Motion passed 5-1.
Reading by title only of "A Resolution of the City of Ashland, Jackson County, Oregon, calling a
Special Election to Submit to the Voters the Question of Contracting a General Obligation Bonded
Indebtedness in the Amount of $9,100,000 to Finance Expansion, Renovation and Reconstruction of
the City's Historic Public Library and Fire Station No. 1.'
Councilors Hauck/Fine m/s to adopt the resolution.
Discussion: Reid questioned coupling these two issues on the same bond. Suggested putting both items out to
the voters, but separately.
Laws agreed that these items could be coupled on one election, but not as one issue. Expressed concerns with
bad public relations that might result by "piggy backing" these two. Emphasized that in his mind, he is sure
that both will pass. Feels that the city could, and should, separate these as two measures on the same ballot.
Wheeldon agreed with Laws. Emphasized that separating these two issues will not prevent cooperation in
getting both passed. Feels that it is important that they be separate, and that the voters be given a choice.
Shaw stated that initially she felt that it would be good for turnout if they were coupled as one issue and she
was concerned that if they were separate they might compete. However, after analyzing data from previous
elections for County measures where both items passed in Ashland, she is less concerned. Noted that while
coupling seems to be raising concern, it worked with the passage of the Food and Beverage Tax.
City Council Mintues 07/08/1999 Page 8 of 9
Fine stated that after listening to the other Councilors, he would be happier if the voters were given more
choice by separating these items. Following amendment made at 7/20/99 meeting: "Fine added that initially he
had deferred to the political judgement of Mayor Shaw that it would be better to link the two measures; but
as she no longer was of that view, he should prefer to let the citizens vote on the two measures separately."
Reid noted that she also had concerns with coupling the items as it would require campaigners to work and
be familiar with both issues. Feels that from the perspective of running a campaign, it would be better if these
items were separate.
Assistant City Administrator Greg Scoles noted that the items could be separated by changing the language in
the resolution. Council could vote now to empower the mayor to sign the resolution as updated.
Laws questioned whether a change in the language would necessitate reading both resolutions in full.
Wheeldon suggested extending the meeting to noon on Thursday, since there is to be no study session, to allow
time for City Attorney Paul Nolte to look at the issue and make the necessary changes in the resolution.
After discussion, it was decided that the meeting would be continued to noon on Thursday, July 8th, with staff
directed to make the necessary changes to split these two items on the ballot.
Motion withdrawn.
4. Reading by title only of "A Resolution setting a Public Hearing to Hear a Petition for, and any
Objections to, the Vacation of a Portion of Indiana Street on Property owned by Southern Oregon
University at the Intersection of Indiana Street and Siskiyou Boulevard."
Reid suggested that this property is of value and if it is to be given away, the City could get something in return.
Suggested taking time to explore the possibility of arranging some sort of exchange to be worked into the Solar
Program that the University will be working on with the City.
McLaughlin clarified that the state is giving the city three times the land that is being given back with the vacation.
Emphasized that the exchange proposed is good for the city's interests.
Councilors Hauck/Reid m/s to adopt Resolution #99-40. Roll call vote: Laws, Reid, Hauck, Hanson,
Wheeldon and Fine: YES. Motion passed.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 9:44 p.m. to noon on Thursday, July 8~h.
Derek D. Severson, Assistant to the CiO, Recorder
Don Laws, Acting Chairperson
City Council Mintues 07/08/1999 Page 9 of 9