HomeMy WebLinkAbout1996-0117 SS MINMINUTES CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION
January 17, 1996
Meetinq called to order at 4:00 p.m., Council Chambers. Attendance by Council; Laws,
Reid, Hauck, Hagen and Wheeldon, Staff; Linda Hoggatt, Mel Clements, Paul Nolte, John
McLaughlin, Phil Lind, Peggy Christiansen, Jim Olson, Karen Huckens, Jill Turner, Brian
Almquist and Barbara Christensen. Local newspapers
GENERAL DISCUSSION ITEMS
A. Report on Highway 66 sidewalk/tree problems and proposed plan for remediation
(O!son/Almquist).
City Administrator Almquist and interim Public Works Director Olson presented plan that
would be a "quick fix" for the Highway 66 sidewalk/tree problem. The problem was created
by ODOT in 1972 when the wrong type of tree was planted and created root problems.
This plan would get the sidewalks back in useful conditions and deal with the safety issues.
It would involve taking trees out of the sidewalk and replace trees with a different ldnd of
tree. The replacing of trees would be over a 3-5 year time. It is noted that some areas
would not be able to have the trees close to the sidewalk.
Council voiced concern over the future remodeling of Highway 66 and if it wouldn't be
better to walt until there is action on the Highway 66 plan.
Planning Director Mclaughlin stated that what is proposed would not preclude any future
developments and would address areas needing improvements for safety.
Councilor Wheeldon questioned how long this has been in the planning process. She would
like to spend time accessing how much time is spent on the planning process of projects.
Olson presented map diagraming center islands on Hillcrest in Medford, as an example of
what was being considered on Highway 66. Discussion by Council regarding the advantages
of center islands.
Almquist reported that the State Highway Department has been receiving numerous
complaints regarding the sidewalks. Technically, the responsibility of the sidewalks is the
property owners. Almquist presented a possible cooperative project between ODOT, City of
Ashland and property owners where all costs would be shared.
B. Report on progress on Oak block LID sidewalks and utility undergrounding
(Oison).
Interim Public Works Director Jim Olson reported that the work is continuing on the
agreement with property owners to complete sidewalk and curb replacement. The electric
utility removal is not ready but the underground conduit is in.
C. Discussion on provision of additional bicycle parking/covered parking in the C-1-
D district and standards for bicycle spaces in multi-family developments
(McLaughlin).
Planning Director McLaughlin shared background data that was presented to Commissions on
additional bicycle parking/covered parking.
He stated that one point was the question on the level of bike parking being provided for
multi-family units. Information was gathered on what other cities have done.
There was question of whether spaces provided should be moved up to 1.5 spaces. Council
was interested in looking at increasing studio spaces to one and 2 bedroom units to two
spaces.
Councilor Hagen felt that a good designer should be able to provide a facility for the needs.
Council discussed the pro's and con's regarding the opportunity of bike transportation.
D. Report on general needs for computer/information services and staff plans for
implementation (Christiansen).
Assistant City Administrator Christiansen and Phil Lind updated Council on the plans of
implementation on computer services.
Presentation was provided by new viewing projector that would be used both by the Police
Department and for presentations at City Council meetings. The scanner provides the
capability to access cable network so information can presented directly to the homeviewers
television through R.V.T.V.
Computer services covered present situation, spoke of strengths, sharing resources and
shortcomings. A time line was presented with budget implications and future needs.
It was strongly suggested that a strategic plan for computer services be done over a one to
three year plan.
Council asked that the objective be driven by needs rather than what was available. Staff
shared frustrations with Council regarding the inability to complete job requirements because
of the inadequacy of computer services.
BUSINESS ITEMS FROM COUNCIL No time allowed.
ADJOURNMENT
Meeting was adjourned at 5:30 p.m.
Barbara Christensen
City Recorder