HomeMy WebLinkAbout1999-0615.REG.MIN MINUTES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING
ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL
June 15, 1999
Civic Center Council Chambers, 1175 E. Main Street
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Shaw called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m., in the Civic Center Council Chambers.
ROLL CALL
Councilors Reid, Hauck, Hanson, Wheeldon and Fine were present; Councilor Laws was absent.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes of the Regular meeting of June 1, 1999 were approved as presented.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS & AWARDS
I. Mayor's award of plaque to Sean Van Ausdall in recognition for his participation on the Sister City
committee.
Mayor Shaw presented plaque to Sean Van Ausdall which recognized all his efforts with the Sister City. Shaw
noted the gratitude for Van Ausdall in all that he has done to create a wonderful relationship with the Sister City of
Guanajuato, Mexico and the City of Ashland.
2. Update and presentation by the Historic Commission.
Jim Lewis, chairperson for the Historic Commission, introduced members Keith Chambers, John Steele, Terry
Skibby, Curt Andersom Vava Baily, Gary Foil, Dale Shostrum, and Kay Maser.
Lewis explained their intent of acquiring good criteria in order to make good judgement decisions. Lewis noted the
support of staff from Community Development, and commented on the photos that Terry Skibby has provided to
document the history of the city.
Bailey explained a project that the commission is working on to develop a national travel itinerary website. Stated
that the text and historic photos have already been provided for, along with valuable historic documentation
provided by Kay Atwood. Explained that they were using four to five sites as a basis for the website.
Chambers commented on the amount of work that has gone into the projects of the Historic Commission and
requested acknowledgment of the progress that has been made. Feels that the commission is a valuable service
provided to the community.
Reid noted the importance of neighborhoods working with the Historic Commission in order to maintain their
historic quality. Reid also commented on her gratitude for the committee members on the work they have
accomplished.
3. Mayor's proclamation of Community Health Center Week as June 21 through June 27, 1999.
Mayor Shaw read proclamation for Community Health Center Week. Shannon Rio, 872 ½ B Street, representing
the Community Health Center, publicly thanked the city for the support that they have provided toward making the
health center happen.
Rio noted three women that the center was recognizing by dedicating rooms in their honor. Commented on a run
and fund raiser in the memory of Nancy Peterson.
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Shaw noted the series recently published by the Tidings on lower income community residents and how these
individuals are best served by the health center.
4. Presentation by Ashland Fiber Network Citizen Programming Committee.
Steve Belsky, chairperson of committee introduced committee members, Wes Brain, Candice Chapman, Lenny
Neimark, Cathy Carrier, Tom Garland, and Russ Silbiger. Voiced his gratitude toward committee members,
council liaison Steve Hauck, staff liaisons Pete Lovrovich and Vince Zauskey. Reminded council and community
of the mission and charge of the committee which they took very seriously.
Carrier explained the process that the committee went through, and how information was provided to the committee
by committee members, committee liaisons, and a variety of other sources. Noted the number of channels that were
considered and how they were chosen. Carrier also explained how the committee placed these channels in different
tiers and how they had come across situations that were beyond the committee's control regarding placement of
channels. Carrier noted the amount of response that the committee received from the community regarding channel
selection.
Silbiger stated that the public process and input in the selection and development of the programming was very
important. Noted that concerns raised by the public were discussed and every effort was made to address these
issues. Expects future feedback from the public to continue as this process progresses.
Brain presented slide show on the different 1-4 tiers being proposed by the committee and what channels make up
these tiers. Highlighted channels that are unique only to Ashland Fiber Network.
Chapman commented that the goal of the committee was to provide informative and entertaining channels to the
community. Explained that there are other channels that are on the "wish list", and that they may be available in the
future.
Council voiced appreciation and enthusiasm of committee members and efforts.
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Minutes of Boards, Commissions and Committees.
2. Confirmation of Mayor's appointment of Kerry KenCairn to the Planning Commission for a term
to expire April 30, 2003.
3. Confirmation of Mayor's reappointments of Greg Williams and Pat Acklin and the appointment of
Jack Sabin to the Hospital Board for terms to commence July l, 1999 and expire June 30, 2003.
4. Authorization for Mayor and City Recorder to sign parking agreement with Elks.
Councilors Hauck/Reid m/s to approve Consent Agenda. DISCUSSION: Councilor Wheeldon requested
that the minutes from May 11th Planning Commission Meeting describe portions of the PUBLIC HEARING
that were missing. City Administrator Freeman explained that the description missing had do to with
antennas for the cable TV that is proposed to be replaced in the yard behind the electric shop. Freeman
stated that he would send these minutes back to Planning for correction.
City Administrator clarified for council that there has not been a time line determined for the parking
agreement with the Ashland Elks. Wheeldon stated that she had received comments that a variety of timed
spaces be considered for the parking spaces at the Ashland Elks. Wheeldon commented on the good
reception by employees regarding not parking in the downtown area. Felt that if work is going to be done in
dealing with the parking issue, that they should be diverse about it. Voice Vote: all AYES. Motion passed.
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PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. Public Hearing regarding the Ashland Downtown Historic District.
George Kramer indicated with a colored coded map, the area and property involved in the Ashland Downtown
Historic District. Explained the local interest areas and how they differ in their boundaries and districts. Slide
show was presented that showed why this area should be nominated for historic preservation.
Requested council support and that if council approves, nomination will be forward to the Historic Preservation
Committee.
Councilor Fine stated his understanding that a part of the advantage to property owners in the proposed district is
that their property values for purposes of local property tax assessment would be frozen at a certain level for a
certain period time. Fine stated that he is led to believe by staff that freezing of values on some our most expensive
pieces of property downtown will only be a negligible impact on the tax rates of people who own lesser valued
property. Questioned if we are going to get this benefit without having other property owners taxes be raised.
Kramer clarified for council that there would be benefit without increasing other property owner taxes. Kramer
used an example of the past called a "shifted burden" and explained that with the passage of Measure 47 & 50 this
way of taxing became a non-issue. Explained that measure 47 limited $15 per assessed value per $1,000 of
assessed value, no matter what the assessed value of the property was, and that measure 50 froze the annual
percentage increase of the assessed value at 3% maximum. Stated that this is the City of Ashland making a very
wise investment in its future assessable value. Explained that what is happening, is that we are foregoing the 3%
increase for 15 years assuming that an owner would not otherwise make these huge investments in renovation.
Once the 15 year window expires and property comes back onto the market, it is really dramatic how lost revenue is
re-couped.
Mayor Shaw explained that given measure 50, the overall taxes don't change and that would mean less revenue to
the city. The decision then would be with the Budget Committee to decide whether the city could live without the
additional 3% increase to revenue. City Administrator pointed out that this community is not as heavily dependent
on property tax as other communities are, and for that reason, it is not as big an impact as it would be if your
general fund was 80-90% funded by property taxes.
Councilor Fine questioned if a vote was postponed, and council could have more time to look at the financial
analysis to assure that this would not shift the burden to the residential property owner, would this create a problem
in seeking registration on the national register?
Kramer explained that when the city accepted the grant monies from the state, they were obligated to submit a
nomination.
Fine commented on the excellence of the report that was submitted, but felt there was an obligation to the public in
knowing where the money is coming from down the line, and to assure that the most wealthy property owners in
town are not being subsidized by everybody else.
Kramer used example to help explain how the tax base is shifted when a property is removed from the tax base and
them placed on the Historic Register. Presented slide on impact of 15-year tax freeze of a commercial building with
a base value of $110,000 and the savings it represented to the tax payer. Explained that the federal government
participates in the underwriting, which is an incentive to encourage major renovations, and why the city is pursuing
this.
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PUBLIC HEARING: Open 8:30 p.m.
No speakers.
PUBLIC HEARING: Closed 8:30 p.m.
2. Public Hearing regarding formation of Central Avenue LID.
Public Works Director Paula Brown reminded council that the Haines development was approved in 1991and that
there is only one property owner involved in this Local Improvement District. Explained that the property owner is
available for questions and endeavors to get this project done quickly.
Brown noted an issue regarding whether council wanted sidewalks on both sides of the street. Explained that the
property owner is responsible for one side of the street and that the city will look at putting sidewalks on both sides
and costing this out to the city.
Councilor Reid stated that because there is already some sidewalk on the other side of the street, that it makes it
incumbent upon the city to continue the sidewalk on that side of the street. Councilor Wheeldon voiced her desire
in making a connection to Van Ness Street.
Brown responded to councils' concern of when the project would be completed. Explained the time frame involved
in the bidding process and noted staff workload. Brown anticipates that this LID will be formed in June, and that
the project would begin construction in the spring of 2000. Clarified the construction schedule and the possibility
of moving up the schedule. Wheeldon voiced her wish to have the project completed sooner.
Brown noted for council that they would look into rexluring the sidewalks in the steep areas.
PUBLIC HEARING: Open 8:35 p.m.
No speakers.
PUBLIC HEARING: Closed 8:35 p.m.
PUBLIC FORUM
None
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None
NEW AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS
1. Council Meeting Look Ahead.
City Administrator Mike Freeman brought attention to the meeting set for the annual membership meeting of the
Ashland Community Healthcare Services. Freeman also noted that there would not be a study session on July 8th.
2. Discussion regarding the Storm Water Master Plan.
Public Works Director Paula Brown gave introduction to the Storm Water Master Plan. Stated that this plan is
moving forward and is changing focus from, "in the pipe, get rid of the water, move to nearest creek", to enhancing
water quality. Brown noted that the plan is linked with the riparian ordinance and also the changing focus of the
Ashland Watershed Partnership. Stated that the city is on the suggested list for the new storm water regulation,
known as Phase lI Regulations for non-point discharge elimination system.
Brown explained that it is not usual practice to treat storm water, but that it does happen sometimes. Stated that
they are doing their first GIS input which makes mapping incredible. Explained the process and how this is
developing. Noted how the system has been used to show enhancement of areas in a variety of ways.
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ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND CONTRACTS
1. Second reading by title only of "An Ordinance levying taxes for the period of July 1, 1999 to June
20, 2000, such taxes in the sum of $5,576,000 upon all the real and personal property subject to
assessment and levy within the corporate limits of the City of Ashland, Jackson County."
Councilors Hauck/Wheeldon m/s to approve Ordinance #2~40. DISCUSSION: Finance Director Jill Turner
clarified for council that approximately 15% of the general fund is subsidized by property tax. Roll Call
Vote: Hauck, Reid, Hanson, Fine and Wheeldon; YES. Motion passed.
2. Second reading by title only of "An Ordinance amending Section 10.46.050.A of the Ashland
Municipal Code to reduce the penalty for illegal camping and similar conduct from a misdemeanor
to an infraction."
Councilors m/s Hauck/Wheeldon to approve Ordinance #2~41. Roll Call Vote: Wheeldon, Reid, Hanson,
Hauck and Fine; YES. Motion passed.
3. Reading by title only of "A Resolution Authorizing and Ordering Improvements for Paving, Curbs,
Gutters, Storm Drains and Sidewalks on Central Avenue from its Existing Terminus East of
Helman Street to Water Street, for the Central Avenue Local Improvement District and Authorizing
the Assessment of the Cost of the Improvements against Property to be Benefitted."
Councilors m/s Reid/Wheeldon to approve Resolution #99-39. Roll Call Vote: Fine, Wheeldon, Hanson,
Hauck and Reid; YES. Motion passed.
4. Reading by title only of "A Resolution Amending the Pay Schedule for Management and
Confidential Employees for Fiscal Year 1999-00."
Councilors m/s Hauck/Wheeldon to approve Resolution #99-38. DISCUSSION: Councilor Wheeldon
commended staff on recognizing confidential staff. Councilor Reid stated her interest in a policy that would
give an idea on what the percentage difference is between salary levels. City Administrator explained that
there would be a future presentation for council on updating of pay plan by consultant on the findings. At
this time there will be time for discussion as to what ideal standards are in relation to separation of pay using
examples of other cities and private sectors. Roll Call Vote: Hauck, Hanson, Reid, Fine and Wheeldon;
YES. Motion passed.
5. Reading by title only of "A Resolution Transferring Appropriations within the 1998-99 Budget."
Councilors m/s Fine/Wheeldon to approve Resolution #99-33. Roll Call Vote: Reid, Hanson, Wheeldon, Fine
and Hauck; YES. Motion passed.
6. Reading by title only of "A Resolution Adopting a Storm Drain Utility Rate Schedule pursuant to
Section 4.27.050 of the Ashland Municipal Code, and Repealing Resolution Nos. 94-47 and 94-54."
Councilors m/s Hauck/Wheeldon to approve Resolution #99-32. Roll Call Vote: Hanson, Reid, Wheeldon,
Hauck and Fine; YES. Motion passed.
7. Reading by title only of "A Resolution Adopting a Transportation Utility Rate Schedule pursuant to
Section 4.26.020 of the Ashland Municipal Code and Repealing Resolution No. 97-32."
Councilors m/s Hauck/Reid to approve Resolution #99-31. DISCUSSION: Councilor Reid brought up as a
reminder the dollars needed for a study regarding transportation and encourages working toward better
funding in regards to this issue. Councilor Wheeldon clarified that there is a transportation transit study in
the works and that we are re-looking at the Downtown Plan. Roll Call Vote: Reid, Wheeldon, Hauck and
Hanson; YES, Fine, NO. Motion passed 4-1.
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8. Reading by title only of "A Resolution Establishing Rates for the Ashland Municipal Airport
Repealing Resolution 94-38."
Councilors m/s Hauck/Wheeldon to approve Resolution #99-37. DISCUSSION: It was noted that Exhibit A
schedule provided in council packet was replaced with corrected one. Roll Call Vote: Fine, Hanson,
Wheeldon, Hauck and Reid; YES. Motion passed.
9. Reading by title only of "A Resolution Adopting a Cemetery Fee Rate Schedule Pursuant to Section
2.64.050 of the Ashland Municipal Code and Repealing Resolution No. 94-20."
Councilors m/s Wheeldon/Hanson to approve Resolution #99-36. Roll Call Vote: Reid, Hauck, Hanson,
Wheeldon and Fine; YES. Motion passed.
10. Reading by title only of"A Resolution Adopting an Engineering Division Fee Schedule Pursuant to
Section 18.108.140A of the Ashland Municipal Code and Repealing a Portion of Resolution No. 94-
17."
Councilors m/s Hauck/Reid to approve Resolution #99-35. Roll Call Vote: Fine, Wheeldon, Hanson, Hauck
and Reid; YES. Motion passed.
I 1. Reading by title only of "A Resolution Exempting from Competitive Bidding Cable Television
Programming for the Ashland Fiber Network Cable Television System."
Councilors m/s Hauck/Fine to approve Resolution #99-30. Roll Call Vote: Wheeldon, Hauck, Hanson, Reid
and Fine; YES. Motion passed.
12. Reading by title only of "A Resolution Establishing latemet and Cable TV Rates for the Ashland
Fiber Network."
Councilors m/s Hauck/Hanson to approve Resolution #99-29. Roll Call Vote: Fine, Reid, Wheeldon, Hanson
and Hauck; YES. Motion passed.
13. Reading by title only of"A Resolution to Forward the Nomination ofthe Ashland Downtown
Historic District to the National Register of Historic Places to the State Historic Preservation
Office."
Councilors m/s Fine/Reid to approve Resolution #99-34. Roll Call Vote: Hauck, Reid, Hanson, Fine and
Wheeldon; YES. Motion passed.
OTHER BUSINESS FROM COUNCIL MEMBERS
Councilors Reid/Hauck to place issue regarding letter from RVTD on agenda. Voice vote: all AYES. Motion
passed.
Mayor Shaw brought to attention the letter received June 14th from RVTD that requested an additional $192,492 to
continue Ashland's current level of service. City Administrator stated that the city does not have this amount of
dollars available in the budget and was unaware that the city would be asked to enter into any other kind of
agreement than what was already expected.
Council agreed to allow Mayor, Councilor Fine and Wheeldon to meet with administrator to look at short and long
term solutions to this problem, and bring back suggestions to council. Possible options were discussed and council
consensus was to allow for further discussion at another council meeting.
Councilor Reid reminded council of the signing of the letter that need to be mailed regarding Global Warming.
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ADJOURNMENT
Meeting was adjourned at 9:07 p.m.
Catherine M. Shaw, Mayor
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