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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1998-0407.REG.MINMINUTES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL April 7, 1998 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Mayor Shaw called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m., Civic Center Council Chambers. ROLL CALL Councilors Hauck, Hagen, Wheeldon and DeBoer were present. Councilors Laws arrived late. was absent. Councilor Reid APPROVAL OF MINUTES It was noted that the name Joan Gaffey on page 5 of the March 17th minutes should be corrected to read John Gaffey. The minutes of the regular meeting of March 17, 1998 were approved as amended. The minutes of the continued meeting of March 18, 1998 were approved as presented. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS & AWARDS 1. Presentation and update by Bicycle & Pedestrian Commission. Maria Harris, Associate Planner and staff liaison to the Bicycle Commission, spoke briefly about the various programs of the Bicycle Commission and presented Bicycle Commissioner Landon Hilliard. Hilliard discussed Ashland Free Ride Day (also known as Bike Commute Day) to be held on May 15, 1998. Hilliard stated that this event is designed to encourage citizens to leave their cars at home for a day and use an alternative mode of transportation. Citizens who don't drive will get free rides on RVTD (possibly all the way from Medford), their daily commute will be free of pollution, and some local coffee shops will offer free coffee and pastries. In addition, the promotion includes a "Pledge Not To Drive" campaign. Pledge forms will be included with April utility bills, and those who pledge will be recognized in the Ashland Daily Tidings. Hilliard noted that the goals of this promotion are: 1) To change people's view of bicycles as toys or fitness apparatus to that of a legitimate and useful means of transportation; 2) Increase RVTD ridership; 3) Encourage people to try another way of getting around town for the day. While recognizing the role of cars in modern life, the Commission hopes that their use will be by conscious choice rather than habit, and that citizens will realize that there are other options available. Councilor Hagen noted that he serves as the Council liaison to the Bicycle Commission, and stated that he had received a number of calls from people who feel that the Commission is not asking people to pledge enough. He explained that this event is designed to get drivers to consider an alternative method for the first time and thereby answer some of the unknowns that may keep them from using alternative means of transportation. Noted the Bicycle Transportation Alliance "ONE LESS CAR" T-Shirts which are being sold at Ashland Community Food Store as part of this promotion. 2. Mayor's proclamation declaring April 19-25, 1998, as "Volunteer Recognition Week". Mayor Shaw read the proclamation in its entirety. CONSENT AGENDA Minutes of Boards, Commissions and Committees. Monthly Departmental Reports - March 1998. Councilors Laws/Wheeldon m/s to accept the consent agenda. Voice vote: All AYES. Motion passed. City Council Meeting 04-07-98 PUBLIC HEARINGS None. PUBLIC FORUM Eric Schehen/368 Bridge St./Member of the Ashland Forest Commission commented on the HazRed timber sale, and presented councilors with copies of an Oregonian article from March 29th. Stated that HazRed plan presented was lacking in management alternatives, and noted that by law a wide range of options should be presented. The options presented were either no action, a 1600 acre fuel break with new roads or a 1500 acre fuel break with no new roads. Noted that he has been involved in developing a citizens' alternative to reduce the HazRed sale. Recognized the thoughtful, careful, all-inclusive process by the Ashland Ranger District and District Ranger Linda Duffy. Feels that the initial decision deserves praise, and that Duffy is sincere and willing to work with the public. However, feels that the selected option is misguided management and that citizen suggestions had no effect on the final decision. The selected plan merely synthesizes options two and three, with 1472 acres of fuel breaks and 2.5 miles of new roads. The only concession made was to remove geologically sensitive areas from the HazRed area. Raised questions about the validity of the final board feet to be harvested. Thanked citizens for their involvement, and the council for it's consideration of suggestions. Concluded that the process has not been rushed so far, and rushing ahead to completion at this point would not benefit anyone as there are still lingering unanswered questions which should be examined. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None. NEW AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS 1. Consideration of air quality alternatives. Conservation Manager Dick Wanderscheid noted the March 3rd presentation to Council by Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) where recommendations by the Air Quality Plan Advisory Committee (AQPAC) were made for cities within the Air Quality Management Association (AQMA). Noted the request had been made to modify the existing trackout ordinance and adopt a uniform woodstove curtailment ordinance so that these ordinances will be uniform for all cities within the AQMA. Explained that Ashland's current woodsmoke ordinance deals only with opacity and does not require observance of "red" days. Stated that transportation issues are not adequately addressed under the current recommendations. Explained that staff will draft modified versions of the requested ordinances, and would like to initiate discussion of concerns with the overall state implementation plan as it addresses transportation and industrial pollution. Wanderscheid noted that Public Works Director Paula Brown and Gary Stevens, of Jackson County, were both present and knowledgeable on the transportation issues under discussion. Noted that staff needs direction on how to address transportation issues, citing the possible alternatives and stating that ordinances shouldn't be held up while waiting for other issues to be addressed. Would like to draft the ordinances while holding public hearings, and route strong advice to AQPAC to urge that they address transportation issues. Discussion of the omission of driveways in the model trackout ordinance, noting that city should maintain current restrictions where they are more restrictive than the model. Discussion of financial burdens posed by woodstove curtailment enforcement and whether Jackson County would provide enforcement. Noted that options would be presented at the time the ordinance is implementation, and that providing infrastructure for enforcement and exemption will be of more concern than the financial burden. City Council Meeting 04-07-98 Gary Stevens of Jackson County. Noted that Jackson County currently oversees Medford and Central Point, but does not issue tickets. Currently, the process is more of information/education based. At the time of a first offense, violators receive a letter. At the second offense, a site visit is made and information is provided. The third offense brings a citation by local police or a code enforcement officer. Noted that ACCESS,Inc. has been utilized in the exemption process to qualify people for low-income and sole source exemptions. Other exemptions are very limited. ODEQ currently funds enforcement of consolidated areas, and the City of Medford employs a part-time person to supplement Jackson County's enforcement efforts. Wanderscheid noted that the Senior Program or Conservation Division could qualify low-income and sole source exemptions, and that Jackson County may have enforcement officers in Talent and thus available to Ashland. Concerns over transportation related pollution were again noted. Discussion of the fact that areas of worst pollution coincide with industrial sites. Stevens responded that new PM2.5 regulations will reduce other pollution, and noted that many incidems of exceedance near industry could also be related to transportation in the same areas. Wanderscheid noted that he had talked to Dr. Bob Palzer who is an expert in this field and that he will likely speak in public hearings on industrial pollution issues. Noted that Palzer feels that two specific industrial sites need more regulation. Discussion of how transportation issues had been dealt with in the AQPAC meetings, with Stevens responding that most transportation issues discussed had been related to trackout. Discussion of low-income and sole source exemptions being gradually phased out by eventual replacement of their heat source and then removing the exemptions. Wanderscheid confirmed that CDBG and Conservation funds would be possibilities to support a replacement program for new heating systems. Discussed the model ordinances' current use within the AQMA, noting that Talent had just adopted the ordinances. Noted that staff members Robbin Pearce and Adam Hanks are both certified at this time to verify woodsmoke opacity. Discussion of AQPAC priorities that had been involved in choosing these areas to address. Stevens stated that the choice to deal with woodsmoke and trackout had been related to timing and ability to implement within the framework of the State Implementation Plan. Wanderscheid explained that the State Implementation Plan will go to ODEQ and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and if approved implementation will be mandated. Noted that adoption of the two model ordinances is the only direct request being made of the City of Ashland. Councilor Laws requested available information on the modeling process used in identifying pollution sources and their contribution to the overall problem. It was noted that the sole reduction option left to reduce automobile pollution is to reduce automobile use. Stevens noted that the plan calls for continuing the current I&M program, though making it stricter and applying it to diesel vehicles is under discussion. Confirmed that Jackson County would like Ashland to move forward with the two model ordinances at this time. Staff was directed to move ahead with drafting ordinances from the models during the next month, and to begin hearings in May to look at concerns over inadequately addressed transportation and industrial pollution issues in the State Implementation Plan. 2. Report on potential changes to the Airport Master Plan. Scoles gave a brief history of the situation concerning the potential sale of 5-acres of a 22-acre parcel purchased as airport land in 1989, and noted that the Airport Commission had differing opinions on previous direction by Council. Explained that staff was seeking to confirm direction Council wished to take, and noted that issues were involved that dealt with the Ashland Comprehensive Plan, Airport Master Plan and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). City Council Meeting 04-07-98 Discussion of the fact that ninety percent of the purchase price for the original 22-acre parcel had been paid by the FAA. Their procedures require that the property be appraised and that the funds from a sale be set aside for FAA-approved projects in the airport area or returned to the FAA. Sewer improvements would not be approved, nor would additional hangars, fuel tanks or the economic development of site. Question raised as to the fiscal impact. Mayor Shaw provided further background on the situation, noting that the property in question had been purchased in 1989 using funds made available by the FAA. FAA will require two appraisals for the parcel to be sold, and any money from the sale must be returned to the FAA or re-invested into the airport. A business wants to purchase the parcel and locate there now. Noted that the City has applied for Southern Oregon Regional Economic Development Institute (SOREDI) grants to improve the sewer system in the past, to no avail. The presence of an interested business on the land could mean grant eligibility with SOREDI, especially if the business owner were willing to pay a portion of the associated costs. Current development in the area is at a standstill due to a faulty septic system and an inadequate water system. This sale opens the possibility of economic development for the area, with little or no financial impact to the City or the taxpayers. It was also noted that due to topography, the parcel under discussion is not particularly conducive to airport development. Discussion of exact cost of the sewer system, which would be $212,000. It was noted that potential development brings the possibility of a grant and related benefits. A SOREDI grant for this project would be $190,000. Public Works Director Brown stated that staff would like to move forward incrementally, having appraisals done, and checking with the FAA and SOREDI to get exact information. This would leave open the option of changing direction as information becomes available. Discussion of the Airport Commissioners' desires that the property not be developed, noting that some felt the City might install sewer at a later date. Councilor DeBoer, liaison to the Airport Commission, stated that he believes Commissioners support development. Also questioned FAA willingness to agree to desired partition around the access road. Stated that the biggest concern of Commissioners was selling airport land rather than leasing it, when many airports around the country are struggling to buy buffer zones. It was noted that grants will not proceed without projects or development, and projects can not be formulated without available funds. Discussed history of interest by developers/businesses in the property, and the possibilities for future development. Money from sale would be applicable to projects which fit under the Airport Master Plan. It was noted that the FAA should be encouraged not to limit the partitioning of the property due to the road's location, as topography and logistics must also be considered. Bill Skillman/635 Oak Knoll Dr./As an Airport Commissioner, pilot and concerned citizen, he is against the sale of any airport land as a sale would mean that control of the land is lost. Explained that the project initially proposed was two acres and has since increased by 150%. Noted that airports nationwide are being required to downsize or close entirely. Stated that a business locating on the property provides a seemingly desirable solution to the short term needs of the airport by providing financing for a sewer system. However, future owners of the property to be sold could be "anti-airport". Also concerned with the FAA's reaction to selling grant money land when considering future grants. Stated that it is not a wise idea to sell airport land, despite the potential short term reward. One sale would set a precedent for future sales of airport land. Mayor Shaw questioned whether reducing the sale to two acres from five would make a difference. Skillman responded that he would be opposed to any sale. Discussed growth, noting that topography would not allow larger or louder planes to land, but that hangar spaces and aviation related businesses on leased city lands will be of great value as the valley grows. Noted the airport's current contribution to city general fund. Feels a long-term lease to a business would attract funding for a sewer. Noted Airport Master Plan requires land be used for aviation related business. Concluded that he is not opposed to development but the sale and consequent loss of control. City Council Meeting 04-07-98 Discussion of the role of SDC funds in constructing an airport sewer system. Scoles and Brown clarified that they will bring back information on funding in an incremental approach as part of presenting a plan to council. Also noted the need to address power and water systems as well. SDCs would fund growth portions of the project, with other funds for the existing airport portion. It was noted that not approving the sale not only threatened airport development, but also posed the risk of losing a major employer in Ashland. The sale would provide benefits to both the Airport and the Community. Staff was directed to proceed incrementally, bringing back a financing plan and other details to both the Airport Commission and City Council. ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND CONTRACTS: 1. Reading by title only of "A Resolution Supporting the Organizing Efforts of the Paul Robeson Centennial Celebration and Encouraging Educational and Cultural Activities Furthering the Recognition of the Paul Robeson Centennial in 1998." At Councilor Hagen's request, the resolution was read in it's entirety. Councilor Hauck/Hagen m/s to adopt Resolution//98-05. Discussion: Councilor Laws noted his policy of not supporting any resolution not directly related to city business, despite his respect for Mr. Robeson's beliefs and achievements. Roll call vote: Hagen, Wheeldon, DeBoer, and Hagen, YES. Laws, NO. Motion passed 4-1. First reading of "An Ordinance Replacing Chapter 2.22 of the Ashland Municipal Code to Change the Name of the Bicycle Commission to the Bicycle and Pedestrian Commission and to Amend its Powers and Duties." Councilor Wheeldon/Hagen m/s to move this ordinance to a second reading. Discussion: Noted that a full reading was required. Councilors Laws requested that Council delay taking action as this change has not been discussed with the Traffic Safety Commission. Noted that with recent changes in the make-up of that Commission, they may be willing to allow changes. Emphasized the need to encourage mass transit, and suggested an ongoing Transportation Commission to address mass transportation, bicycle, pedestrian, traffic safety, parking, etc. and look at the entire transportation picture. Discussion of previous difficulties with a broad transportation-related commission when the Transportation Plan Advisory Committee was active, and of whether members of such a broadly focused commission could retain their individual passion while having to focus on the larger framework. It was suggested that drawing together a larger advisory commission made up of members representing the various transportation-related commissions under discussion might be a possibility. Community Development Director McLaughlin noted that council had addressed both sides of issue, and explained that applying pedestrian issues to the Bicycle Commission was an attempt to address an otherwise ignored area, the advocacy of pedestrian issues in the planning process. Discussed the possibility of combined meetings of the Bicycle and Traffic Safety Commissions. Noted previous discussions of consolidating commissions. Suggested putting off a decision on the proposed ordinance until the next meeting, liaison Councilor Laws talking to Traffic Safety Commissioners, and looking at combining transportation related commissions into one. Issue will be brought back to the Council Study Session to be held in May, and Traffic Safety and Bicycle Commissioners will be invited to attend. Action to be taken at first meeting in June. Motion withdrawn. City Council Meeting 04-07-98 Reading by title only of "A Resolution Authorizing Signatures, Including Facsimile Signatures, For Banking Services on Behalf of the City of Ashland." Councilor Hauck/Laws m/s to adopt Resolution//98-04. DISCUSSION: Explained that the bank requires this resolution to change authorized signatures for the Mayor's recent name change. Roll call vote: Wheeldon, DeBoer, Hagen, Hauck, and Laws, YES. Motion passed. OTHER BUSINESS FROM COUNCIL MEMBERS Noted that Ashland Parks & Recreation Commissioner JoAnne Eggers wished to clarify the decision made at the joint meeting of the City Council and the Parks & Recreation Commission on March 17th concerning the portion of Ashland Creek which runs along Guanajuato Way. Councilors Hauck/Laws m/s to place this issue on the agenda to clarify responsibility for this portion of Ashland Creek. All AYES, motion passed. Eggers asked for clarification of the decision reached at the joint meeting on March 17th. Discussion confirmed that the decision had been to proceed with conceptual designs and initiate public process concerning the Creek in that area. Financial alternatives would be brought back to a later meeting, and a discussion of financing could occur based on the preferred alternative that develops out of the public process. Councilor Hagen noted that the discussion of water source options in the new issue of the Ashland City Source had omitted his suggestion that another Water Treatment Plant be constructed at the Waste Water Treatment Plant. Stated that information is needed on this option, and it should be considered. Public Works Director Brown stated that the Request for Proposals (RFP) was still in draft form, and that this would be added to the RFP. Councilor Hagen noted stipends received from the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) for state roadways through Ashland, explaining that these funds provide less than $600,000 per year through the year 2001. Discussion of participation in valley-wide planning and Ashland's stand on automobile usage as having a bearing on ODOT funding. Councilor Hagen noted that cities that maintain a compact urban form receive less money from ODOT, and that this had been confirmed in his conversations with ODOT. Funds go to cities that are "driven to traffic problems". Recommended looking at this issue, and that letters be sent to the Governor. Councilor DeBoer noted that he would be meeting with ODOT, and can convey specific recommendations. Discussion of looking at Siskiyou Boulevard redesign with ODOT, and Councilor DeBoer confirmed that it was under discussion. Councilor Hagen noted that a Siskiyou Boulevard upgrade is one of the 1998-99 council goals. Mayor Shaw noted that the next meeting will be Mike Freeman's first as City Administrator. The Mayor recognized Interim City Administrator Greg Scoles for the fine job he has done, and thanked Scoles for seeing the City through this transition period. Councilor Laws noted that Scoles' qualifications and background nicely complement those of Freeman and the two together will provide an excellent leadership combination for the City of Ashland. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 9:07 p.m. arb/ara Car i~Cily Re ci~ d~ Catherine M. Shaw, Mayor City Council Meeting 04-07-98