HomeMy WebLinkAbout2003-1105 Study Session MINASHLAND CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION
Wednesday, November 5, 2003 at 12:00 p.m.
Couucil Chambers, 1175 East Main Street
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor DeBoer called the meeting to order at 12:03 p.m.
ATTENDANCE
City Council: Couucilors Laws, Amarotico, Jackson and Heam were present. Hartzell arrived at 12:15 p.m.
Councilor Morrison was absent.
Staff: Management Analyst, Ann Seltzer, Community Developmeut Director Joho McLaughlin, Pnblic Works
Director Paula Brown, Fire Chief Kcith Woodley and City Administrator Gino Grimaldi.
I. 2003 Citizen Attitude Survey (attached).
Tammy Lockwood from Lockwood Research presented the 2003 Citizen Attitude Survey.
citizen survey conducted since 1998.
~Fhis is the third
She noted that the overall objective of the research was to measure change in the commnnity's attitudes and
opinions since the Benchmark study was conducted in November 1998 and the Tracking study in November
2000.
The following research objectives were identified and the pros and cons were pointed out:
· Measure the Community's level of satisfaction with the quality of life.
· Measure the Community's satisfaction with the current level of City services.
She explained how to read the charts that were used and how to understand the rating scores used for the survey
Council discussed affects of growth survey results.
· ldeotify how the Communityviews City government.
· Identify the methods the Community uses to gather information about the City.
· Measure the incidence of RTVD transit use.
It was pointed out that the sample age group was 45 years of age or older. Lockwood showed that the census
indicates households with individuals 65 years or older is 23.5%. She stated that it is difficult to reach younger
generations.
Options or changes for future surveys were discussed. It was noted that the survey results should be made
available to the Budget Committee. And, that council should consider how they would use these survey results
and to take this into consideration when debating the necessity of any future surveys. It was pointed out that
cross tabulations were available. Continued discussion on the merit of the survey and what questions should be
included in future surveys.
II. Discussion regarding redesign of Council Chambers, with respect to seating, sound and web access
(2003 Council Goal).
Management Analyst Ann Seltzer explained that staff is requesting from council their input on updating the
council chambers. She introduced Bill Street, John Fields and Tim Bewley who are available to assist in any
updates or improvements.
Council discussed the need to keep the meeting directed toward the council rather than thc audieoce. Discussion
proceeded on how this could be accomplished. Bill Street was noted that flexibility is needed wheu conducting
meetings and that when a speaker's back is to the audience, it does not feel like they are part of the meeting. He
suggested using a podinm. It was pointed out that thc room is used for multiple uses and needs to be flexible.
Ashland City Council Study Session Page 1 of 2
November 5, 2003
RVTV suggested raising the lights in order to place a large size screen that would be easier to view. It was
noted that there is a need for instructions on how everything works. Other needs were identified as updated
sound systems and new technology tools.
It was pointed out that under Public Meetings Law, the public has the right to attend meetings, but does not have
the right to participate unless invited to do so by the governing body.
Staff will contact Judge Drescher to find out the ueeds of Court.
Meeting was adjourned at 2:00 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Barbara Christeusen, City Recorder
Ashland City Council Study Session Page 2 of 2
November 5, 2003