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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1998-0819.SPECIAL.MIN MINUTES FOR THE SPECIAL STUDY SESSION ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL August 19, 1998 Civic Center Council Chambers, 1175 E. Main Street Mayor Shaw called the meeting to order at 12:35 p.m. Attending: Councilors Hauck, Hagen, Wheeldon, Reid, and DeBoer~ Staff: Olson, Brown, Scoles, Wanderschied, and McLaughlin. !. Review of current status of the Oak Street Sidewalks and Traffic Calming Project. Public Works Director, Paula Brown and City Engineer, Jim Olson reviewed the current status of the Oak Street Sidewalks and Traffic Calming Project. Items for recommendation included elimination of the traffic islands/tree wells; use of rubberized speed hump devices and installation of curb extensions and raised cross-walk at Crispin Street. Olson explained that during the month of July, a traffic study on the intersection of Oak and Hersey Streets was conducted. Stated that in order to be considered by Oregon Department of Transportation for a traffic signal installation there needs to be 11 warrants considered, and provided council with the list of these warrants with description of each warrant. A signal is warranted when any one of the 11 warrants are met. Current traffic records indicate that 5 accidents have occurred during the past 12 months. According to the criteria, the intersection at Oak and Hersey Streets do not meet the requirement for 80% of the minimum traffic volume. Commented that, although a traffic signal is not warranted at this time, the warrants were very narrowly missed under two of the categories. The warrants for a 4-way stop, however, are fully met and it is highly recommended that this be implemented as quickly as possible. Brown explained that the proposed 4-way stop would be constructed with bays due to the traffic volume on Hersey Street. Additional recommendation by staff is to allow truck traffic back on Oak Street. Brown stated that with the calming devices being constructed on Oak Street, this would slow local truck traffic. %'heeldon brought attention to comments made by neighbors regarding truck traffic in the neighborhood. Brown reported that the truck traffic would be monitored and that they would continue doing traffic studies. Director of Community Works, John McLaughlin explained for council that plans for the Nevada Street bridge is included in the long range plans for the North Mountain neighborhood plan. Olson explained to council that staff would continue to work with the neighborhood as plans are mapped out. Addressed concerns for council regarding possible vandalism to proposed portable speed humps, explained that the speed humps are very heavy and will be bolted down into the asphalt. Brown stated that staff will continue toward the final design and will keep council updated. Explained that when there are specific concerns or issues that involve the neighbors, they will be contacted directly. City Administrator Freeman requested that the neighborhood be made aware that this plan has been approved by the Council. Olson commented on some difficulty and concerns by Oregon Department of Transportation regarding the street design and staff is continuing to meet these concerns. Council agreed that it would be best to lift the load limit for truck traffic as soon as traffic calming portion of the project is completed. Councilor Hagen commented on his support of "neck downs" and how this naturally developed traffic calming. Council Study Session 8-19-98 Page 1 Wheeldon would like to have some discussion in the future with staff and neighborhood regarding signage which creates an entrance to the neighborhood and how this would look. Would also like to know more about lighting in the neighborhood. Hagen strongly suggested that the police department be brought into the planning process for their input regarding traffic calming and enforcement of traffic speed. Shaw commented on the accurate and interesting police information provided in the packet. 2. Status Update on the Off-Site Portion of the Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements. Paula Brown, Public Works Director updated the Council on the current status of the improvements and explained that this session was intended to allow council members to ask questions of staff. The project is approximately 60% completed and is expected to be finalized in February 1999. Explained portions of the off-site spray irrigation and bio-solids management and reuse programs. Commented on concerns raised by the property owners in the neighborhood which included possible odor problems and access to the site. Explained that the odor concern had been addressed and that the City has received approval for use of the access under the freeway, which will be further away from the land owners. Brown explained that it was determined by Jackson County that it was not necessary for the City to obtain a Conditional Use Permit. Felt that it was important not to cut-off communication with adjacent property owners and would like to continue to work with them. Explained that concerns regarding run-off have been addressed and stated that run-off should not occur and is not acceptable by DEQ or by the City of Ashland. Encouraged council to tour the area. Brown explained for council that there had been a study done on the potential for crops on the property and discussion of possible wetlands. It was determined that the soil on the property and weight may make it possible to grow poplars. The use of wetlands and spray irrigation is based on weather conditions and run-off. Explained the location of, and the look of, proposed ponds and how it may effect adjacent land owners. Explained for council that there is no intention to spray on Hanbry Springs and has little information on this spring. Commented that the neighborhood concerns regarding T.I.D. has been discussed and will be monitored. 3. Request for Closure of Winburn Way on Summer Sundays. Public Works Director, Paula Brown explained to council that this request came from Mr. Frank Binelle through the Traffic Safety Commission. The main concern by Public Works, after talking to Parks Department and Police Department, has to do with enlbrcement It was determined by staff, that irWinburn Way was closed, it would be impossible to enforce. Councilor Reid commented on how helpful it is to have Winburn Way closed during certain events, but at the same time, it is important to keep the area safe. Stated that when the street is closed at necessary times, it does cause a hazard in the area. Meeting adjourned at 1:35 p.m. Submitted by, Barbara Christensen City Recorder Council Study Session 8-19-98 Page 2