HomeMy WebLinkAbout2009-05-26 Planning PACKET
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Planning Copy
ASHLAND PLANNING COMMISSION
STUDY SESSION
MAY 26, 2009
AGENDA
I. CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 PM, Civic Center, 1175 E. Main Street
II. ANNOUCEMENTS
III. PRESENTATIONS
A. SOU Pedestrian Mapping Project
B. Planning for Public Health - Staff Presentation
IV. DISCUSSION ITEMS
A. Croman Mill Site Redevelopment Plan - land Use & Street Framework Refinements
V. ADJOURNMENT
CITY OF
ASHLAND
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In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please
contact the Community Development office at 541-488-5305 (TTY phone is 1-800-735-2900). Notification 48 hours prior to the
meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to the meeting (28 CFR 35.1 02-35.1 04
ADA Title 1).
CITY OF
ASHLAND
DATE:
May 19,2009
TO:
Ashland Planning Commission
FROM:
Maria Harris, Planning Manager
RE:
Land Use and Street Framework Refinements
Croman Mill Site Redevelopment Plan
Question:
Does the Planning Commission have comments or questions about the revisions to the Land Use and
Street Framework for the Croman Mill Site Redevelopment Plan?
Background:
The land use and street framework in the Croman Mill Site Redevelopment Plan provides a blueprint for
the type and location of uses and the circulation for the study area. Implementation of the Croman Mill
Site Redevelopment Plan will require land use ordinances and map amendments addressing zoning and
required street improvements for the master plan area. The land use and street frameworks will be the
basis for the land use ordinance and map amendments.
Staffbelieves the land use and street frameworks need to be fine tuned to address grade, physical
constraint and rail access issues. Staff has transferred the plan maps to the city's mapping system which
includes more extensive information on site constraints such as topography, building locations and other
physical features. The adjustments made to the land use and street frameworks are discussed below.
Attached are two versions of the land use and street framework with the first being the original
framework that is included in the draft plan and the second being the revised framework.
Street Framework
The street framework was revised in four areas - the block length sizes, in the ODOT property area, in
the north area of the mill site and in the south area of the mill site.
The blocks included in the original framework are approximately 250 to 300 feet in length, and were
increased to 400 feet in the revised framework. (Block length is the measurement of one side of a block,
including the distance from comer to comer.) The Ashland Street Standards allow a maximum block
length of 400 feet. Block lengths are important for pedestrian and bike trips, and for setting form of the
buildings. Large blocks can create excessive travel lengths for people on foot and bike, and tend to be
associated with a suburban development pattern. Staffbelieves the revision in block size meets the
intent of the original framework by providing a walkable and bikeable circulation plan, as well as
establishing a block pattern to encourage a more urban, pedestrian-oriented building type. The
combination of the street network with the Central Ashland Bike Path and Hamilton Creek Multi-Use
Path provides pedestrians and bicyclists a series of opportunities to make connections in all directions at
reasonably spaced intervals.
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The original framework includes a street south of the ODOT property providing a secondary connection
from Tolman Creek Road to the central boulevard through the neighborhood commercial zone. In the
revised framework, this street was moved to the north so it is directly adjacent to the ODOT property,
and was revised to be a multi-use path and/or limited access connection. This street as shown in the
original framework runs through an existing building.
The origitlal framework includes a street ru1ll1ing along the northwest boundary of the mill site, adjacent
to the mini-storage facility, a street adjacent to the railroad tracks and a midblock connection in the
northern comer of the mill site property. In the revised framework, these streets were revised to be a
multi-use path and/or limited access connection. There are multiple street connections that serve this
same area, and Staff believes a pedestrian and bicycle access and/or limited vehicle access such as an
alley may be more functional in these locations. Additionally, the circulation will likely not be able to
connect to the mini-storage property to the north because of significant changes in grade.
The southern end of the mill site including the residential property adjacent to Siskiyou Boulevard has
varied topography, as well as an existing pond and natural stream course. There is a significant cut on
the industrial part of the property adjacent to Mistletoe Road. The original framework shows two streets
running east-west and connecting to Mistletoe in the location of the cut. Staffbelieves building the two
local street connections to Mistletoe Road isn't feasible given the cut, and the streets were eliminated in
the revised framework. Additionally, the original framework delineated a street going over the creek
and connecting to the extension of the Central Ashland Bike Path. This connection would not only cross
fairly significant slopes, but also would disturb a wide area comprised of two stream crossings. As a
result, the street was eliminated and replaced with a multi-use path connection, with potentially limited
vehicle access,- which more appropriately follows the existing contours of the land as well as reduces the
amount of disturbance associated with a future stream crossing.
Land Use Framework
The land use framework was revised in three areas - the office employment and compatible industrial
zoning split, the area between Mistletoe Road and Hamilton Creek, and the area immediately adjacent to
Siskiyou Boulevard.
The original framework locates the compatible industrial district to the west of the central boulevard and
the office employment district to the east of the central boulevard. Additionally, a freight rail spur is
delineated toward the southern end of the site and traveling to the west across the central boulevard to
access the Compatible Industrial district. In Staff s discussion with the Oregon Department of
Transportation (ODOT) rail safety and rail planning divisions, it appears the freight spur crossing
multiple streets is a difficult option, which raises significant issues of public safety and cost. As a result,
the revised framework shifts the division of the two zoning districts in a north-south orientation so that
the office employment district is located on the northern portion of the site and the compatible industrial
district is on the southern portion of the site. This allows a potential rail spur and loading/unloading area
to be located in the compatible industrial district.
The area between Mistletoe Road and Hamilton Creek is shown in the compatible industrial zone in the
original framework. Because the area on the opposite side of Hamilton Creek is a largely developed
single- family residential neighborhood, Staff believes the land uses and building types should provide a
DEPT~ OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
20 Er Main Street
Ashland, Oregon 97520
www4ashland,or,us
Tel: 541w488-5305
Fax: 541-552-2050
TTY: 800..735-2900
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transition from the adjacent neighborhood to the interior of the redeveloped mill site. For this reason,
the area is designated as mixed-use in the revised framework which would provide an opportunity for
mixing residential units with office or light industrial uses. Additionally, the mixed-use zone can be
designed to address building design guidelines intended to take in the area context, as well as
incorporate the creek as a critical element in the site planning.
The area at the southern end of the property adjacent to Siskiyou Boulevard including the residence and
the trailer park is shown as office employment in the original framework. The area has fairly significant
slopes from east to west as well as a pond and two small stream courses. Finally, the area across
Siskiyou Boulevard to the south is not located in Ashland's urban growth boundary and has a rural
development pattern. The revised framework delineates the southern end of the site as a mixed-use zone
to provide an opportunity for mixing residential units with office or light industrial uses and to provide
some flexibility to address the physical constraints and building types for the gateway area.
Attached are two versions of the development summary with the first listing the acreages included by
use designations in the original framework and the second listing the acreages by use designations
included in the revised framework.
Draft Land Uses
Attached is an outline of the land uses that would be permitted in the office and employment, compatible
industrial and neighborhood commercial zones. Staff envisions a fairly concise list of uses for each
zoning district that could be augmented by a set of performance standards addressing items such as
water and energy use, levels of pollutants, noise and odor.
Attachments:
Land Use and Street Framework - original
Land U se and Street Framework - revised
Land Use and Street Framework with Topography - revised
Development Summary Table - original & revised
Land Use Outline
DEPTt OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
20 E. Main Street
Ashland, Oregon 97520
'W\NW lashland tor I us
Tef: 541-488-5305
Fax: 541-552-2050
TTY: 800-735-2900
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Development Summary Table - original & revised
land Use Type Original Plan Acreage Revised Plan Acreage
(Crandall Arambula)
Office 30.0 21.8
Compatible Industrial 31.5 24.8
Neighborhood Center 4.9 4.9
Opens pace 6.8 8.9
Central Park 1.8 2.1
Mixed 0.0 12.7
Existing Employment 7.4 2.2
Existing Industrial 0.0 5.1
Includes 25010 reduction in acreage for Public Facilities
Land Use Outline
Croman Mill Site Redevelopment Plan
Office Emplovment
Purpose: The Office Employment district is designed to accommodate a compact, well-
designed built environment that strives to provide family wage employment opportunities, while
incorporating open space amenities, multiple modes of transportation and efficient use of
water, energy and the community's natural resources.
Permitted Uses
· professional, financial, business and medical offices
· administrative or research and development establishments
. public service or community buildings
· quasi-public utility and service buildings and structures, but excluding yards with
outside storage and electric substations
. wireless communication facilities permitted pursuant to Section 18.72.180
Special Permitted Uses: The following uses are permitted as accessory uses in conjunction
with a permitted use.
· light manufacturing in conjunction with a permitted office employment use
· warehouse and similar storage facilities in conjunction with a permitted office
employment use
· stores, restaurants, shops and offices supplying commodities or performing services
including personal service establishments limited to no greater than _ sq. ft. of
gross leasable floor space
. child or day care centers
. fitness, recreational sports, gym or athletic club
. short-term employee housing
Conditional Uses
. private school, college, trade school, technical school or similar school
· kennels and veterinary clinics, with all animals housed within structures
. public and quasi-public utility yards with outside storage
. electrical substations
. temporary uses
Comoatible Industrial
Purpose: The Compatible Industrial district is designed to accommodate industries with an
emphasis on creativity, craft and innovation that include both industrial and office functions, do
not emit unacceptable levels of pollutants and use water and energy efficiently.
5/21/2009
Page 1
Permitted Uses
. light manufacturing, assembly, fabricating or packaging of products from previously
prepared materials such as cloth, plastic, wood (not including saw, planning or lumber
mills or molding plants), paper, cotton, precious or semi-precious metals or stone
· manufacture of food products, but not including the rendering of fats or oils
· administrative or research and development establishments
. offices in conjunction with a permitted industrial use
· public service or community buildings
· quasi-public utility and service buildings and structures, but excluding yards with
outside storage and electric substations
· wireless communication facilities permitted pursuant to Section 18.72.180
· rail freight loading dock, structures and buildings
· rail passenger structures and buildings
Special Permitted Uses: The following uses are permitted as accessory uses in conjunction
with a permitted use.
· warehouse and similar storage facilities in conjunction with a permitted industrial use
· stores, restaurants, shops and offices supplying commodities or performing services
including personal service establishments limited to no greater than _ sq. ft. of
gross leasable floor space
. child or day care centers
. fitness, recreational sports, gym or athletic club
· short-term employee housing
Conditional Uses
· private school, college, trade school, technical school or similar school
· kennels and veterinary clinics, with all animals housed within structures
· public and quasi-public utility yards with outside storage
· electrical substations
· temporary uses
Neiahborhood Center
Purpose: The Neighborhood Center is designed to provide pedestrian-scaled uses that serve
the adjacent neighborhood, nearby employees and future transit commuters such as small-
scale, street-oriented commercial spaces and multi-family housing.
Permitted Uses
· stores, restaurants, shops and offices supplying commodities or performing services
including personal service establishments limited to no greater than 10,000 sq. ft. of
gross leasable floor space per lot
· manufacture or assembly of items sold in a permitted use, provided such
manufacturing or assembly occupies 600 square feet or less, and is contiguous to the
permitted retail outlet
5/21/2009
Page 2
· child or day care centers
. fitness, recreational sports, gym or athletic club
. ShGrt-term..Bmptoyee..-housi-ng ~\~\..\.\)\~'..~;.
· public service or community buildings'
. quasi-public utility and service buildings and structures, but excluding yards with
outside storage and electric substations
. rail passenger structures and buildings
Special Permitted Uses
· Residential Uses
o at least 650/0 of total gross floor area of ground floor, or at least 500/0 of the
total lot area if there are multiple buildings shall be designated for permitted or
special permitted uses, excluding residential
o residential densities shall not exceed 60 dwelling units per acre - units less
than 500 square feet shall count as .75 of unit
o if the number of residential units exceeds 10, then at least 100/0 of the
residential units shall be affordable for moderate income persons
Conditional Uses
· private school, college, trade school, technical school or similar school
· kennels and veterinary clinics, with all animals housed within structures
. wireless communication facilities permitted pursuant to Section 18.72.180
. temporary uses
5/21/2009
Page 3
MATERIALS FROM FEBRUARY 17,2009
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
. Council Communication
. Meeting Minutes
CITY OF
ASHLAND
Council Communication
Update on Croman Mill Site Redevelopment Plan
Meeting Date:
Department:
Secondary Dept.:
Approval:
February 17,2009
Community Development
None
Martha Bennett
Primary Staff Contact:
E-Mail:
Secondary Contact:
Estimated Time:
Maria Harris
h.a11"i SIn Ci.i~ as h lan d. or .us
Bill Molnar
30 minutes
Question:
Will the Council direct staff to begin the process of adopting the Croman Mill Site Redevelopment
Plan and to prepare the necessary accompanying Ashland Land Use Ordinance and Comprehensive
Plan amendments?
Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends the Council direct staff to begin the process of adopting the Croman Mill Site
Redevelopment Plan and to work collaboratively with the Planning Commission to prepare the
necessary accompanying Ashland Land Use Ordinance and Comprehensive Plan amendments.
Background:
Implementation of the Croman Mill Site Redevelopment Plan likely would require the creation of a
new zoning or overlay district along with a new chapter in the Ashland Land Use Ordinance (ALUO)
to govern the new district. A similar approach was used with the North Mountain Neighborhood Plan,
in which the North Mountain Neighborhood zoning district was created and Chapter 18.30 was added
to the ALUO. Upon direction from the Council, Staffwill work with the Planning Commission to
prepare the necessary ALva and Comprehensive Plan amendments.
Summary of Croman Mill Site Redevelooment Plan
The Croman Mill Site Redevelopment Plan includes two primary components - a redevelopment plan,
and an implementation plan. The redevelopment plan includes a land use framework and a circulation
framework. The implementation plan identifies time-sensitive projects that are necessary to create the
regulatory framework to implement the plan and key projects that are needed to support the future
development. Further detail is provided below.
Land Use Framework
The land use framework identifies the type and location of office uses, industrial uses,
neighborhood-serving land uses, workforce housing, parking and open spaces.
· Office and Employment District - Emphasizes companies providing family-wage jobs. A
collection of complementary office employers within the district could create a unique and
distinctive identity (e.g. technology and innovation park).
· Compatible Industrial District - Location for hybrid industries that include office and
industrial functions. Emphasis on clean industries that are water and energy efficient, do not
emit unacceptable levels of pollutants and emphasize creativity, craft and innovation.
· Neighborhood Center - Located on the existing ODOT maintenance facility site near the
intersection of Mistletoe Road and Tolman Creek Road, the neighborhood center is situated at
Page 1 of 3
e'4. 1
CITY OF
ASHLAND
the crossroads of the adjacent neighborhoods and the future employment center. The
neighborhood center includes small-scale, street oriented commercial uses, a future commuter
rail station and multi-family housing.
. Parking - Parking is provided for the employment area through a combination of on-site
parking, on-street parking and a parking structure centrally located in the office and
employment district. A site for a park and ride lot or structure to be used in conjunction with
the future commuter rail service is reserved within the neighborhood center.
. Open Space - The open space framework includes a central park, a transit plaza and
enhancement of the Hamilton Creek corridor.
Circulation Framework
The circulation framework identifies street, pedestrian, bicycle, transit and rail networks and
improvements that are needed to support the development and that are connected to the City's
larger transportation system.
. Street Network - The street network includes a new signature street providing primary access
to the employment center, intersection improvements to Ashland Street and Tolman Creek
Road, the realignment of Tolman Creek Road, and an interconnected local street network
providing access to and between parcels in the employment center.
. Pedestrian and Bicycle Circulation - Pedestrian and bicycle transportation is provided
through sidewalks on all new streets, a protected bike lane on the new signature street, the
extension of the Central Ashland Bike Path adjacent to the railroad tracks, accessways
providing connections between the Central Ashland Bike Path and the local street network and
a multi-use trail in the Hamilton Creek corridor.
. Transit - The transit framework identifies the extension of the RVTD bus service through the
employment center on the signature street, two locations for stations for the future commuter
rai11ine, and a rail spur location for freight service.
Implementation Plan
The executive summary describes in detail priority projects crucial to the successful
implementation of the Croman Mill Site Redevelopment Plan. The two types of priority projects,
time-sensitive and key, are outlined below.
. Time-Sensitive Projects
o Adopt the Croman Mill Site Redevelopment Plan
o Create and adopt a Croman Mill District Overlay Zoning Plan
o Update the City's Comprehensive Plan and Transportation System Plan
o Identify feasibility of creating an Urban Renewal District and Urban Renewal Plan
o Develop a parking management strategy and financing plan for structured parking
. Key Projects
o Create new sustainable development guidelines for redevelopment of the Croman Mill
site
o Acquire ODOr property and relocate maintenance facility
o Redevelop ODOr property as neighborhood center
o Annex county parcels with the study area and City's Urban Growth Boundary
o Study the potential for future street car transit in downtown
Page 2 of3
er4.'
CITY OF
ASHLAND
Proiect Historv
Cities in Oregon are required to provide an adequate land supply for economic development and
employment growth to address Goal 9 Economic Development of Oregon's Statewide Planning Goals.
Specifically, Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 660-009 requires cities to periodically conduct an
Economic Opportunity Analysis (EOA). The EOA must include identification of economic trends,
identification of potential growth industries in the planning area, employment projections, an inventory
of vacant and developed lands for industrial and employment uses and identification of the number of
sites needed to accommodate expected employment growth.
The City of Ashland completed an Economic Opportunities Analysis (EOA) in April 2007. The EOA
identified a lleed to retain the Croman Mill site for industrial and employment uses to meet projected
employment growth, and recommended developing a master plan for the redevelopment of the site.
The EOA suggested exploring the concept of developing the Croman Mill site as an "eco-industrial
park" to attract industries that provide family wage jobs, are non-polluting, use comparatively little
water and are compatible with Ashland's community values. The Croman Mill site is considered an
ideal location for employment uses for a variety of reasons including the ability to accommodate large
parcels of up to ten acres, the proximity to the interstate and the railroad line, the ability to
accommodate the needs of existing Ashland businesses that may wish to relocate within the city and
the ability to attract new businesses.
In 2007, the Community Development Department applied for a Transportation and Growth
Management (TGM) grant to prepare a master plan for the Croman Mill site. The TGM program is a
joint program of the Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) and the
Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). The City of Ashland received the TGM grant and
Crandall Arambula, an urban design and architecture firm, was selected to prepare the draft plan.
Project work began in December 2007 and the draft Croman Mill Site Redevelopment Plan was
completed in December 2008. The planning process involved three public workshops, two joint
Planning Commission and City Council study sessions and numerous stakeholder meetings with
property owners, 11earby residents and government agency representatives.
Related City Policies:
Economic Element of the Ashland Comprehensive Plan
Transportation Element of the Ashland Comprehensive Plan
Chapter 18.108, Procedures
Council Options:
Direct staff to begin the process of adopting the Croman Mill Site Redevelopment Plan and to prepare
the necessary accompanying Ashland Land Use Ordinance and Comprehensive Plan amendments.
Potential Motions:
Move to direct staff to begin the process of adopting the Croman Mill Site Redevelopment Plan and to
prepare the necessary accompanying Ashland Land Use Ordinance and Comprehensive Plan
amendments.
Attachments:
Draft Croman Mill Site Redevelopment Plan
Page 3 of3
r.,
ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL MEETING
February 17, 2009
PAGE I of9
MINUTES FOR THE REGULAR 1\1EETING
ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL
February 17, 2009
Council Chambers
1175 E. Main Street
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Stromberg called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. in the Civic Center Council Chambers.
ROLL CALL
Councilors Voisin, Navickas, Lemhouse, Jackson and Silbiger were present. Councilor Chapman was absent.
MAYOR'S ANNOUNCE1\1ENT OF BOARD AND COMMISSION VACANCIES
Mayor Stromberg announced that applications are being accepted for the annual appointments to Commissions
& Committees and the deadline for submitting applications is March 13, 2009.
SHOULD THE COUNCIL APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THESE 1\1EETINGS?
The minutes of the Regular Council meeting of February 3, 2009 were approved as presented.
SPECIAL PRESENT A nONS & AWARDS None.
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Qoes the Council accept the Minutes of Boards, Commissions, and Committees?
2. Does the Council wish to approve a Liquor License Application from Anne Root dba Myron Root &
Co. at 17 N. Main Street?
3. Does the Council wish to confirm the Mayor's appointment of Laurence Blake to the Planning
Commission with a term to expire April 30, 2009?
4. Does the Council wish to confirm the Mayor's appointment of tbe following individuals for the
newly formed Transportation Commission?
· Term to expire April 30, 2012: Matt Warshawsky, Eric Heesacker, David Young
· Term to expire April 30, 2011: Colin Swales, Julie Sommer, Brent Thompson
· Term to expire April 30, 2010: Tom Burnham, John Gaffey
5. Will the COlincil, acting as the Local Contract Review Board, approve the additional public
contracts required to complete the Distribution Rack Expansion Project at the Mountain Avenue
Substation?
6. Will the Council approve two contracts for flexible surveying services that will exceed a 24-month
contract period and may exceed the $50,000 contract threshold?
7. Does the Council wish to approve a Liquor License Application from Lisa Beam dba Sesame Asian
Kitchen at 21 Winburn Way?
8. Does Council have any questions about the quarterly financial report as presented?
Councilor Voisin requested that Consent Agenda item #6 be pulled for discussion.
Councilor Jackson/Lemhouse m/s to approve Consent Agenda items #1-5 and #7-8. Voice Vote: all
AYES. Motion passed.
Engineering Services Manager Jim Olson explained the Council approves contracts that exceed 24 months or
$50,000. The contract before them is for two years with two additional one-year contracts to cover possible
extensions. It was unlikely the project would exceed $50,000 and presenting the contract in this format
provided time and cost savings to the City.
Councilor V oisinlLemhouse m/s to approve Consent Agenda item #6. Voice Vote: all AYES. Motion
passed.
--- "TJr.7
ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL MEETING
February 17, 2009
PAGE 2 of9
PUBLIC HEARINGS None.
PUBLIC FORUM
Zach Brombacher/640 Tolman Creek RoadN oiced concern with truck congestion near his property when
the freeway is closed due to weather and requested the City provides police direction. He added the lights on
Siskiyou Boulevard were inadequate, and that the Croman development will increase traffic in the area and
suggested having another interchange on Siskiyou Boulevard.
Julie Norman/596 Helman Street/Spoke regarding a proposed ordinance on the Water Resource Protection
Zone that will be on the City Council Agenda March 3, 2009 and extended an invitation to a meeting February
25, 2009 to build on the information already gathered.
Mayor Stromberg added he was hosting a community dialogue the same night, February 25, 2009 in the
Gresham Room at 7:00 p.m. to discuss the use of chemicals in watercourses.
Arlen Gregorio/474 Williamson Way/Shared the problems with glare neighbors are having due to the
lighting at Falcon Heights (479 Russell Street). He stated there is warehouse type lighting on the (14) fourteen
exterior lights with (4) four additional lights on balconies that have not been lit yet. The building is above the
neighborhood and the lighting disturbs sleep and affects the streetscape. The developer made some
adjustments but it is still excessive and intrusive. He asked the Council to set a hearing to look into the
possibility that this could be a public nuisance under Section 9.08.190 and to strengthen the ordinance.
Janet Tuneberg/327 Starflower Lane/Explained her home is exposed to the orange light from the back of the
building and (8) eight lights from the streetscape not including the balcony lights. The second story lights are
often on all night and noted additional (6) six streetlights along Russell Street. The lighting is overkill, looks
very industrial, and eliminates the night sky.
Surya Bulow/470 Williamson Way/Noted her house is flooded with light from the 479 Russell Street
development all night long, disrupting her sleep patterns even with the blinds closed. She was concerned with
the quantity and type of lights used and that the lights were on continually. The development is the entire
south side of her property. With lights lit during the day, she is unable to open her blinds because of the glare.
She added the lights from the storage unit and roof create a glare. She would appreciate motion lights and
stated the current lighting makes the development look like a factory or prison.
Cheryl Briggs/472 Williamson Way/Explained her property is directly behind the development and the glare
in her bedroom make it difficult to rest. She would support the Council's consideration that the lighting is a
public nuisance and would appreciate any help the Council could provide. .
Councilor LemhouseN oisin m/s to place item on agenda for discussion. Voice Vote: all AYES. Motion
passed.
Monica Trocker/Noted the history for managing cougars is to kill them and hoped that process would be
reconsidered. She expressed concern on the number of people present during the incident that should not have
been there. She suggested ongoing education on living with wildlife versus having to kill them.
Sally Mackler/Explained she is the Wildlife Chair for the Oregon Chapter of the Sierra Club and explained
that Clay Street is somewhat of a wildlife corridor. Oregon State ordinance allows public killing of bears and
cougars for safety reasons, Ms. Mackler did not believe this incident reached that bar. The State rule is not to
re-Iocate bears or cougars; the response is always to kill them. Public safety is a matter of concern but there are
other ways to deal with these situations and even prevent them from occurring uSing non-lethal control
methods prior to going to lethal. She encouraged the City to consider non-lethal methods. The best way to
prevent these types of conflicts is to educate people on how to deal with wildlife and how to avoid
confrontations. Research over decades show that constantly killing the cougar population disrupts its social
ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL MEETING
February 17, 2009
PAGE 3 0[9
system and actually creates better conditions for conflict with humans, by removing the adult cougars, the
younger juveniles move in and they are the age-class structure likely involved in conflict. Fifteen cougars have
been killed in Oregon over the last 15 years is possibly contributing to current conflicts. The public needs to
be better educated about big predators and wildlife and learn how to minimize conflict by keeping things that
attract wildlife in check.
Elise Thiell321 Clay Street/Commented on her personal experience on viewing the cougar and the
consequences she and her daughter suffered due to what they witnessed. She suggested the City adopt a
coherent policy for Ashland Police on how to proceed with large predators~ She noted Jackson Wyoming's
three-strike policy where cougars are tagged and moved out of town, if the cougar returns, the third time it is
terminated. She encouraged the City to establish a bear and cougar friendly policy where animals are removed
in a humane and respectful manner.
Helene De Martine7J321 Clay Street/Stated that the City of Ashland is trying to become a sustainable City
where people want to visit and experience all of its beauty, which includes wildlife. She requested that policy
be adopted that law enforcement, public figures and citizens could follow. She commented that during the
incident, the Ashland Police were calm, sensitive to the situation and trying to protect the citizens that had
gatheredw The City should research other States where the policy is tranquilizing and transferring wildlife.
Karen Salley/SOl Pinecrest Terrace/Requested that the City of Ashland to create a policy and eventually
change Oregon State code on wildlife. She shared information on the wildlife policies from other states.
Larry Laitner/801 Pinecrest TerracelExplained that 15 people have been killed due to cougar attacks in the
entire United States since record keeping began and that the risk of a cougar attack is low. He asked if it was
appropriate for public safety people, the police and wildlife officials to protect every individual from every risk
and suggested that individuals should be responsible for their own welfare. Public education efforts to inform
people of some of these risks would be beneficial. He felt that Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife's
(ODFW) policy is out-dated and it is not reasonable to kill cougars that just appear in Ashland. An acceptable
approach would have been to do nothing. He asked the Council to fonn a citizen commission to work with
City and State Police, ODFW, the Council and community on establishing a policy that reflects modem values.
Councilor NavickasN oisin m/s to place item on agenda under Other Business From Council. Roll Call
Vote: Councilor Navickas, Voisin, Lemhouse, Jackson, Silbiger, YES. Motion passed.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
1. Does the City Council agree with tbe recommendations of Mayor Stromberg, C.ouncilor Jackson,
and Councilor Voisin regarding 2009 City Council Goal Setting?
Councilor Voisin stated that the City should not pay for a facilitator and that an effort to find someone in-house
or free from the Rogue Valley Council of Government (RYCOG) would be the better solution. City
Administrator Martha Bennett noted the meeting was scheduled for March 14, 2009. Councilor Jackson
emphasized that goals be short term, address the current economic situation in the community and that staff
make additional information available at the meeting or prior to the meeting about the Strategic Sustainability
Plan. Council requested staff provide them goals that they thought had the most impact and were achievable for
the community in a 12-18 month period. Ms. Bennett responded staff would bring a draft agenda and
homework assignments to the next Council meeting.
NEW AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS
1. 'Win theCoun~ildir~t staff to begin the process of adopti ngt~~(;rt)J.11alll\lillSite:ReiI~v~l()pment
Plan .and .to.prepare the necessaryacco~panyillg A.s~land,L.llndIJse.Ordillanc~aJ1dCoDlPrehens'ive
Plan . Amendments? ...........,.. .................... . ...... ............d.. ...<.i'i...... .'. ...............\.i ..' ............................... ................ ...................
..........: ...... ........................ '
Councilor Silbiger declared a conflict of financial interest and asked that the CouncH recuse him from the
discussion.
Tn' I
ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL MEETING
February 17,2009
PAGE 4 of9
Councilor VoisinlNavickas m/s to allow Councilor Silbiger be recused from this discussion.
Voice Vote: all AYES. Motion passed.
Councilor Silbiger left the room at 7 :58 p.m.
Community Development Director Bill Molnar and Planning Manager Maria Harris provided a presentation
that included:
Oregon Statewide Planning Goal 9 Economic Development
Economic Opportunity Analysis 2007
Draft Plan Development Timeline 2007/2008
Ashland's Employment Centers - Maps and Aerials of Ashland's Commercial, Employment and
Industrial Zones C-l, C-I-D, E-l, M-l and acreage
Draft Plan Contents - Goals and Objectives
. Balanced circulation .system for bikes, autos, pedestrians, trucks and transit
. Create an identity for the area
. Preserve rail access for commuters and freight
. Provide .for a large number of family wage jobs
. Allow for light industrial and manufacturing
. Allow for a mix of uses
. Evaluate funding opportunities for specific infrastructure improvements
. Mandate sustainable and green development codes - may require additional funding outside of
property owners
. Develop standards for "dark skies"
Context - Plan Concept - Maps/Photos
. Croman Mill Site Redevelopment Plan
. Office and Employment District with a target of 60 employees per acre
. Compatible Industrial District - clean/sustainable industrial uses with a target of25 employees per
acre
. Neighborhood Center - housing and small scale pedestrian oriented commercial center to serve
neighborhood, employees and people using the transit line
. Open Space containing Central Park, Transit Plaza and enhancing the creeks that run alongside the
property - mandating and funding for these areas will be determined by the Council
. Signature Street & Central Park
. Street Framework
. Pedestrian and Bicycle Framework
. Transit Framework
. Parking
. Green Streets and Parking Lots with 500/0 pervious paving for parking lots and require enough trees
for 50% shade cover
Implementation -Priority Projects
. Adopt Croman Mill Redevelopment Plan
. Create and Adopt Zoning Overlay
. Update Comprehensive Plan and Transportation System Plan
. Identify Feasibility of Urban Renewal District and Plan
. Develop a Parking Management and Funding Strategy for Structured Parking
Next Steps
. Council Initiates Process of Adopting Draft Plan
,-",....--,.._._..."_._--~---. --------. ~----Ilr T -
ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL MEETING
February 17, 2009
PAGE 5 of9
· Staff Develops New Zoning District and Chapter for Ashland Land Use Ordinance with Necessary
Comprehensive Plan Amendments
· Planning Commission/City Council Study Session and Public Hearing Process
Draft Croman Mill Site Redevelopment Plan www.ashJand.oLus/croman
Jerry Powell/2565 Eagle Creek Lane/Requested further information on funding for this development and
questioned a proposal for an II-story building. He thought the height would obstruct the natural beauty and
requested a height limit for the buildings.
Mayor Stromberg clarified the actual height limits would be worked out in the process of implementing the
plan and would not be implied at this point
C~uncilprJatksonILemh()use mlstodirect staff. to .ini.tiatetbe.planning for creatin~a.. Croman . Area
Master ,Plan.. IlISCUSSI()1\i: .....Counc:ilorJackson,....Lemhousearld.Voisi~thoughtitwasa.great opportunity
andpublic..comIllentwould....betaken.....seri{)usly....Councilor .N~yi?kassupport~d.thec()ncept..but..~fldconcerns
regarding..neight......issues,.the ....~ Ian'.... was .n~t ....as...eco......oriented...as......proP()sed~....................()ther....issu~sw~re....P8Ikingand..the
potential. for hotels in' residential areas......?v1ayor..Sttoll1berg agr~dwith..Councilssupp{)rtandobservationsand
added. one major failing for the plan was the. need for workf9fce. housing in the propo~ed:area.Councilor
Navickas.~""iththe..Mayor ..noting .the. high-end ..condominiuJ11Sblliltinth(lE-l>.zonedotninated
workforce housing. .i )ii .....>/Jii .....ii ....J......>iiii
RollCall V ote:Councilor JackSon, ,Navickas, Lemhouse and V oisin,YES. .Motionpassetl.
2. Does the Council wish to consider changes in the allocation of Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT)
revenue different from those doUars and percentages identified in Resolution 2008-35 because of the
projected decrease in revenue to be generated and changes in economic conditions?
Administrative SeIVices Director Lee Tuneberg presented the staff report that recommended the Council
consider revising the allocations of TOT revenue, given the impact on the City's grant program from declining
revenue. Staff is predicting $100,000 less in revenue generated than currently budgeted. He explained that
earlier in the year Council had identified how to allocate monies for this year predicting $1,775,000 as part of
the budget process.
With $1,720,000 for 2009-2010 revenue generated from the 9% tax, the calculation would be $1,262,079 for
non-tourism as opposed to the $1.3 million and $457 ~921 for tourism. The formula and how the resolution is
written shows more allocated towards tourism than non-tourism activities, the targets suggested in the
resolution leaves $112,079 for small grants and the Chamber for economic development or cultural activities
and more money on the tourism side. The resolution requires a shift in the money to meet State requirements.
The question is how to budget for next year and what programs to fund in order to meet the State requirement
of spending money on tourism.
Mr. Tuneberg clarified the City is required to use $457,921 for tourism. The percentages used for the
allocations identified by the Council last year could be changed by repealing the resolution. The resolution
allows the Council to make decisions on how to allocate in both categories. There is $112,000 in non-tourism
and $45,7"90 in tourism that through the resolution,. the Council decides how to use that money.
City Administrator Martha Bennett commented staff could bring back a recommendation for consideration if
the Council wanted to change the allocations.
Councilor Navickas suggested putting the entire $112,000 into SmalJ Grants in the non-tourism related
category and shifting tourism monies so the Visitor and Convention Bureau (Yea) receives $275,000, Oregon
Shakespeare Festival (OSF) receives $110,000, the Small Tourism Grants receive $45,000, Public Art $13,000
and retain the remaining $14,000 as a buffer for the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) projects. The intent
is to look at the original resolution, shift more money into small grants, have the Chamber of Commerce handle
tours and promotions, and do more of the economic development on the side of the City.
.m . -....Tn-. '-Y
ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL MEETING
February /7, 2009
PAGE 60f9
Chuck Young/1313 Clay Street/Stated that he was the Vice President of the Ashland Bed and Breakfast
Network and owner of Country Willows Bed and Breakfast. He noted the economic downturn and stated that
the City should increase, not decrease, marketing. The Bed and Breakfast community had concerns that some
of the TOT money earmarked for tourism would shift towards to non-tourism and wanted to go on the record
as 'being against shifting funds from that general category.
Tom Olbrich/356 Alta Street/Stated he was the Executive Director of the Southern Oregon Film Festival and
voiced his concern with the shift in percentages. As a non-profit organization, they rely heavily on City grant
monies that come from non-tourism funding. Mr. Olbrich was glad to see the recommendation to have small
grants going to non-tourism grants, but voiced his surprise on the large shift away from something that had
been discussed for months.
Councilor Navickas responded the Council was looking at moving all of the non-tourism related money into
small grantees pulling it out of tourism promotion. In the past, many of the grants focused on promoting
tourism but in the end, it did not happen. The Council would rather have the VCB focus on tourism promotion
and give all the economic development money to the small grantees instead.
Pam Hammond/632 Walnut Street/Stated that she owned Paddington Station and shared some of the tasks
associated with the business. The most challenging is marketing and the Chamber of Commerce provides
marketing through the tourism program. It would be impo~sible for Paddington Station to provide these
services themselves and there is a need to continue to fund the Chamber of Commerce's V CB. As the current
President of the Chamber of Commerce, she hoped the Council had reviewed the Chamber's Annual Report
and that it was apparent the Chamber has proved it is the best organization to carry out marketing and tourism
for the benefit of the City.
Don Anway/212 E Main Street/Stated that he was the General Manager of the Ashland Springs Hotel and
current Chair of the VCB for Ashland. He appreciated the proposal that Councilor Navickas made and stated
that it is important to organize the money for marketing campaigns that are successful and provided examples.
It is crucial to keep the money in one fund and offer to help in small tourism grants and important to keep the
amenities of the community alive.
Josh Hamik/555 Siskiyou Blvd/Stated he is manager and family owner of the Stratford Inn. He explained
that they had worked hard to meet the current percentage and reinvest in tourism. Taking money away from
Chamber or VCB and allowing the Council to allocate it was not a good decision for the community. He
supported the VCB and the Chamber of Commerce keeping and allocating the funds.
Mark DiRienzo/931 Beswick Way/Stated he was the Executive Director at Science Works Museum. Science
Works brings in a completely different demographic to the community in tourism, employment and education
and it is important to have funds available to pull people in from outside of 50 miles. It is equally important to
have a broad marketing path and funds available for the Science Warks education programs that extend to nine
counties. Science Warks cannot deliver these services without grant monies. The museum is creating an
economic development benefit by hiring teachers, bringing in summer camp educators as well as people
exiting 1-5 and staying to visit the museum. As much money that can be spread to organizations who are
bringing in people from beyond 50 miles is critical and is the original intent of this money.
Sandra Slattery/1405 Pinecrest Street/Stated she was the Executive Director of the Ashland Chamber of
Commerce. The Chamber's job is to help businesses succeed and the community move through the current
economic situation the best way possible. The Chamber is a partner in promoting the economy, creating
materials to showcase the City, to those interested in expanding or relocating their companies, growing their
families, visiting the community and accessing the City's organizations and services. The Council's support to
the Chamber helps their effort through economic development and the VCB to promote the entire community
and that now is not a time to cut back. The Chamber needs programs and promotions to help the City get
ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL MEETING
February 17,2009
PAGE 70f9
through these difficult economic times and supports the industry that brings in $3.5 million through TOT and
the Food Beverage Tax. It is imperative to work together in these unprecedented times.
Ms. Slattery provided a letter from Dr. Mary Cullinan, the President of South em Oregon University (SOU) that
encouraged support for grant monies to SOU and the Chamber of Commerce. SOU depends on the Chamber's
publications and website to attract visitors, employees and students to the region along with the special
partnership the Chamber has with SOD's School of Business and conferences. Dr. Cullinan encouraged the
Council's strong support for economic development and the V.CB.
Katherine Flanagan/It 0 E MainJStated she was the Director of the V CB and marketing for the Chamber of
Commerce. For 27 years, Ashland has relied on the veB to promote the community to visitors traveling more
than 50 miles to Ashland. The VCB mission is to promote visitors year round with the prime focus on fall,
winter and spring. The VeB committee is comprised of representatives from each of the industries that relate
to tourism that rely on the VCB to gain the most effective market exposure for the Ashland experience. The
VeB offers cooperative advertising opportunities that do more than individual businesses. According to
Travel Oregon, every $1 spent on marketing tourism equals $159 in visitor spending and translates to $6 in
State and local tax revenue. Providing the VCB with funding for promoting tourism brings money into
Ashland and supports the local tax base. Ms. Flanagan appreciated the Council's support through the funding
that enables the veB to promote Ashland.
Ms. Bennett explained it was the beginning of the grant process and staff needed direction on allocation.
Council commented on Counci lor Navickas' grant allocation proposal that consisted of putting the non-tourism
amount into small grants and for tourism, allocating $275,000 to the VCB, $110,000 to the OSF, $45,000 to
Small Tourism Grants, $13,000 to Public Art and the remaining $14,000 as a buffer. Clarification that small
grantees were not doing tourism promotion and allocating promotion dollars to the VCB would make the
process cleaner.
Council commented that the Chamber, OSF; Small Tourism Grants would all be affected and that by
allocating $275,000 to the Chamber and giving the Chamber Economic Development funds to the City makes
sense. It was noted that the Council was doing what the people suggested by giving the money to the group
that knows best how to spend it and that the City was constrained by the tourism split requirement on the
funds. Concern was raised that the economic development portion of the resolution, which allocated $150,000,
would suffer. That it was going backwards to repurpose the economic development to strategic planning and
that the Council should be wary of economic development being a slice of the strategic plan. It was suggested
that a portion of the economic development money should go to the Chamber.
Ms. Bennett shared that staff had delayed filling the staff position associated with economic development due
to the decline in TOT.. Reducing the funding jeopardizes the Strategic and Economic Development Plans
because it eliminates the staff position for those proj ects. If the Council decided to reduce the amount and shift
funds in grant form for economic development, it should not exceed $10,000-$15,000.
Council continued their discussion with the following comments:
· Concern regarding repurposing Economic Development to Strategic Planning
. Strategic Planning has been a council goal for several years
. State law mandates 1 % in 70% of City's bed tax for tourism which has created this division
. Lack of flexibility to place money targeted for tourism into economic development
. Need to keep in mind the "big picture" in regards to Economic Development
· Need for staff person to focus on strategic planning with large economic development component
Councilor Silbiger noted that this year was for developing the plan, and next year would be for implementing
the plan. Currently the City is a year away from the plan and he could not speak to the activities associated with
it because the plan was not developed. Giving money to the Chamber for economic development would
ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL MEETING
February 17,2009
PAGE 8 of9
maintain what is in place until a plan is developed. Councilor Navickas added this is not the Chamber's
complete budget, they have other revenue sources they could put into economic development.
Suggestion was made that a cap at $112,000 for small grants, with additional revenue going to the Chamber
Economic Development was made. Ms. Bennett explained that all would need to be distributed through the
budget process.
Mayor Stromberg commented that the intention is to have an Economic Development Plan in place and at that
point, no longer deal with trade offs because it would transfer to the City. Councilor Silbiger clarified the
intention was to have a certain amount of revenue for this coming fiscal year so there would not be these
issues. Councilor Jackson added one of the other purposes of creating small tourism grants as a separate
category was to facilitate the distinction that exists within the small grants; some are clearly used as tourism.
She was most comfortable with Councilor Navickas' suggestion.
Councilor Lemhouse shared the view voiced by Councilor Silbiger and asked if the City could afford to wait
one year on economic development. He was uncomfortable taking money from the Chamber and not fining the
gap it would create for a year.
Counci lor Navickas thought the focus should be on what the Chamber of Commerce wanted to support which
was tourism promotion. The Council was offering the Chamber the opportunity to increase tourism promotion,
and wanted to see the Chamber promote tourism in other cities, not necessarily local events.
Councilor NavickasNoisin m/s to approve TOT allocation that sets small grants at $112,000 and change
in non-tourism category, in tourism category the VCB grant would be $275,000, the OSF grant would
be $110,000, small tourism grants would be $45,000, Public Art would be $13,000 and change and the
amount allocated to City projects would be $14,000 and change and additionaUy, to direct staff to come
back with a revised resolution.
DISCUSSION: Councilor Silbiger clarified that that there is no dollar amount that would make sense without
eating into the Economic Development Program. Ms. Bennett clarified that if the projected revenue were less,
it would come out of the General Fund, Economic Development, Public Art and the $14,000 buffer. Mr.
Tuneberg added that if it came out higher it would require a budget transfer for the current year, moving
monies from contingency to spend on tourism, recognizing additional monies that have come in. Councilor
Navickas commented his intent would be to cut into the $14,000 buffer first.
Roll Call Vote: Councilor Jackson, Lemhouse, N avickas, Voisin, YES; Councilor Silbiger NO.
Motion passed 4-1.
O~INANCES.. RESOLUTIONS AND CONTRACTS
1. Should Council approve Second Reading of an Ordinance titled, "An Ordinance Amending the
Ashland Municipal Code Chapter 2.36.030 Initiatives and Referendums - Deposit Required?"
City Attorney Richard Appicello read the title in full.
Councilor Jackson/Lemhouse m/s to approve Ordinance #2979. Roll Call Vote: Councilor Jackson,
Voisin, Lemhouse, Navickas and Silbiger, YES. Motion passed.
2. Should the Council approve a Resolution titled, "A Resolution Establishing Deposit Required on
any Initiative or Referendum Petition for Final Filing?"
City Attorney Richard Appicello read the title in full.
Councilor V oisin/Jackson m/s to approve Resolution #2009-05. Voice Vote: all AYES. Motion passed.
3. Should Council approve Second Reading of an Ordinance titled, "An Ordinance Relating to
Ambulance Response Times and Amending AMC 6.40.060?"
City Attorney Richard Appicello read the title in full.
ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL MEETING
February 17, 2009
PAGE 9 of9
Councilor Lemhouse/Voisin m/s to approve Ordinance #2978. Roll Call Vote: Councilor Lemhouse, ,
Silbiger, Jackson, Navickas and Voisin, YES. Motion passed.
NEW AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS-(continued)
3. Discussion regarding lighting on Russell Lane as noted during Public Forum.
Mayor Stromberg noted a provision in Chapter 18. 72. 140-stating lights in one zone cannot shine directly into
another zone. Community Development Director Bill Molnar added the code also states lighting shall not
directly illuminate a residential area and currently the Planning Department is evaluating the situation on
Russell Lane. City Administrator Martha Bennett explained the criteria in the code is opened ended and
subject to interpretation and applying it to this situation could result in a counter suit fonn the property owner
saying the City has abused their authority.
City Attorney Richard Appicello explained the Land Use Enforcement Provision 18.112 contains language
regarding the enforcement of the Land Use Code. Mr. Molnar added the project has not received the final
Certificate of Occupancy and the Planning Department was in the process of coming to a determination.
Mr. Appicello further explained there could a planning enforcement action depending on the solution. If
Council wanted to change the code, they should do it through legislative action in a possible dark sky
ordinance establishing limitations on lighting that applies everywhere. Ms. Bennett suggested staff bring a
draft ordinance to the Council if the decision was to pursue a legislative amendment.
Council consensus was to allow staff to continue with the conditions of approval on the Planning Approval
process, address the mitigation of light, and glare issues. It was noted that the "dark sky" ordinance has been
on the Council's list of goals for years.
Mr. Molnar stated he has been working with Russ Dale and the general contractor, who is working with the
neighbors, to evaluate the specific issues. 'There are five or six more lots to develop and with the Planning
Department focusing on lighting for the remainder of the project, it would be prudent for the developers to
remedy the situation now. Mr. Molnar will keep the neighbors apprised of the progress and currently was
trying to arrange a meeting for the neighbors and developer to discuss the issues.
4. Will the Council adopt staff's recommended pavement management strategy?
Councilor VoisinlNavickas m/s to approve staff recommended pavement management strategy.
Roll Call Vote: Councilor Navickas, Voisin, Le.mhouse, Jackson, Silbiger, YES. Motion passed.
5. Discussion regarding Wildlife Management P~licy for the City due to recent by Ashland Police
shooting of cougar on Clay Street.
Councilor Lemhouse requested staff provide information regarding the cougar shooting. City Administrator
Martha Bennett explained staff had spoken to ODFW and would forward information when received.
OTHER BUSINESS FROM COUNCIL MEMBERSfREPORTS FROM COUNCIL LIAISONS
ADJOURNMENT
Meeting was adjourned at 10:29 p.m.
~~
. IV
ohn Stromberg, Mayor