HomeMy WebLinkAbout1998-0901.REG.MINMINUTES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING
ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL
September 1, 1998
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Shaw called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m., in the Civic Center Council Chambers.
ROLL CALL
Councilors Laws, Hauck, Hagen, Wheeldon, and DeBoer were present. Councilor Reid was absent.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Councilor Wheeldon asked for confirmation of the amount of the donation authorized at the last meeting for the
animal shelter in Talent. It was confirmed that $500 plus in-kind services had been authorized, as indicated in
the minutes.
The minutes of the regular meeting of August 18, 1998 were approved as presented.
The minutes of the executive sessions of August 18 and 19, 1998 were approved as presented.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS & AWARDS
1. Report on Financing the Local Improvement District Committee Recommendations.
City Administrator Mike Freeman provided background information on the Local Improvement District situation,
and discussed financing options for the proposed city match of 40 %. Recommended utilizing existing resources,
with the balance to be funded through annual appropriations of capital funds through the budget process.
Councilor Wheeldon noted that the costs shown are greater than had been expected, and pointed out that 36 of
the potential projects are at or above the proposed $4,000 cap, while only 25 fall below the cap. Emphasized
that 14 of those above the cap are nearly twice the $4,000 proposed limit.
Freeman emphasized that this was a budget issue, as it is for a homeowner paying improvement costs.
Discussion of "per linear foot" unit cost determinations. Public Works Director Paula Brown indicated that
these allocations were based on sections, and the determinations involved judgement calls with regard to street
width in reaching the $135 per linear foot amount. Confirmed that this was due to physical constraints as well as
right-of-way issues. Freeman noted that these were preliminary estimates. Councilor Wheeldon also stated she
felt that inflation should be taken into account when looking at improvement project costs over time.
Councilor Hagen questioned the shifting of funds to cover the City's portion under the proposal, and the effect of
the shifting of workloads within the Public Works Department. Freeman explained that time and equipment are
part of the City's existing, in-house resources, and that the proposal involves making street improvement projects
a clearer priority. Discussed use of staff time and the shifting of priorities. Councilor Laws stated that other,
lower priorities could be foregone for a time, as the paving of unpaved streets is a high priority. Mayor Shaw
expressed her concern over the implications of making community projects such as sidewalks and crosswalks a
lower priority, and questioned the numbers for the City share as budgeted presently.
Discussion of project costs. Freeman noted that materials are the main variable. Director of Community
Development John McLaughlin explained that in the staff report before Council, costs to lot owners are based on
current, existing lots. The larger existing lots may include vacant land with development potential, and this will
City, Council Meeting 09-01-98 1
bring the costs per lot down considerably. Stated that his feeling was that the larger projects would come down
from S10-12,000 per unit to closer to $5-6,000 per unit.
Councilor Wheeldon reiterated her concerns, but noted that she is committed to changing the present process.
Stated that Council needs to discuss this matter in terms of a twenty year timeframe, through a source outside the
present budget. Public Works Director Paula Brown confirmed that total costs over a twenty year period were
approximately $6 million.
Councilor Hagen noted that despite encouraging alternative transportation being a Council goal, projects have
been on hold for four years due to the availability of funds. Expressed his concerns over the funding of
improvements. Freeman stated that funding is identified based on Council policy. Discussion of funding
continued. Councilor Laws stated that alternative transportation projects have not been ignored, and that the
Council has allocated substantial funding to such projects.
2. Ashland Fiber Network - Technical Advisory Committee Report.
This item was moved to be included with the Ashland Fiber Network public hearing to occur later in the evening.
3. Ashland Fiber Network - Strategic Steering Committee Report.
This item was moved to be included with the Ashland Fiber Network public hearing to occur later in the evening.
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Minutes of Boards, Commissions and Committees.
2. Confirmation of Mayor's appointments to Ad Hoc Sister City Committee.
3. Adoption of Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law for Planning Action 97-054 -- Outline Plan
Approval for a 25-Lot Subdivision Under the Performance Standards Option, located at
Strawberry Lane.
4. Authorize the City Administrator to sign and execute the Contract with the Oregon Department of
Transportation for the FY99 Fund Exchange Program.
5. Liquor License Application from Sharon .and Gordon Hull d.b.a./The Boudashery Ltd.
Councilor Wheeldon asked Public Works Director Paula Brown to confirm that item//4 dealt with reconstruction
of all of Union Street. Brown confirmed that it was for all of the street.
Councilors Hagen/Wheeldon m/s to accept the consent agenda. Voice vote: All AYES. Motion passed.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. Citizens' Committee Report on LID's (continued public hearing).
Public Hearing opened at 7:30 p.m.
Robin & Catharine Carey/527 Walnut Street/Submitted letter to Council.
Rick Davis/478 Fordyce Street/Submitted letter to Council.
Sara Walker/Realtor, Patricia Sprague Real Estate, Inc.~Submitted letter to Council.
Jack Blackburn/805 Oak Street/Emphasized that he is in favor of Council adoption of the report. Thanked
Committee members, Councilors Laws, DeBoer and Wheeldon, and staff members John McLaughlin and Susan
Yates for their roles in and contributions to the process leading up to the Committee's recommendation.
Emphasized that the $4,000 cap was proposed to equalize the amount paid by everyone, and that the City is a
property owner and should pay its share. Also pointed out the problem under the current methodology with
regard to signed-in favor agreements, which essentially allowed builders to force the creation of an LID.
ci~ Council Meeting 09-01-98 2
Steve Morjig/610 Chestnut Street/Stated that $200,000 per year for twenty years may not be enough. Feels
that Council should accept the Committee's recommendations, but funding and potential shortfalls must be kept
in mind. Proposed some modifications to the report, including a uniform cost per unit, and that funds from those
who prepay should be given to developers if they are paying for improvements. Feels that a Council Resolution
must be contingent upon available funds, and reiterated that $200,000 per year may not be enough. Concluded
that options must be considered and kept open.
Carolyn Eidman/554 Fordyce Street/Noted she resides on Fordyce, where the improvements are complete but
have not yet been billed. Expressed concerns for elderly residents who pay the most, and noted concerns with
the quality of the design and construction of the Fordyce Street improvements. Emphasized that Council needs
to look at all existing projects along with this proposal, but that special attention should be paid to the Fordyce
Street LID.
Harry Bartell/365 Strawberry Lane/Stated that it was his belief that there had been an agreement reached
within the Committee, but that he felt the need to speak in light of Steve Morjig's comments. Asked that
Councilors keep in mind that Morjig's suggested modifications should be kept in perspective with the fact that
the Committee voted 8-2 against Morjig's position.
Public Hearing closed at 7:45 p.m.
2. Ashland Fiber Network (AFN).
Director of Electrical Utilities Pete Lovrovich introduced Southern Oregon University's Richard Holbo, chair of
the Technical Advisory Committee. Provided background, noted that twelve members had held meetings for the
last few months, and noted the memo presented to Council outlining the Committee's recommendation.
Holbo noted that the group had met, and members had broken into categories to consider issues. Explained that
the last page of the memo before Council has the Committee's recommendations. Emphasized that the project is
possible in the City budget, and they would like the City to move ahead and the Committee to continue meeting.
Lovrovich stated that they would bring further technical information to Council at a later date. Mayor Shaw read
the Committee recommendations aloud for viewers: 1)The Committee recommends Scenario One from the
Business Plan and revised R.W. Beck financial report and recommends moving forward with the Ashland Fiber
Network (AFN). 2)The Committee recommends that it continue to meet and make further recommendations as
deemed necessary by the Department of Electrical Utilities. 3)The Committee recommends that revenues be
reallocated back into the project for improvements.
Sharon Stern of the Strategic Advisory Committee noted that they had met seven times so far, including meetings
with Ken Harper from R.W. Beck, Inc., and others from around the country who are authorities on similar
projects. Noted the memo prepared by the Strategic Committee, and that discussions had occurred concerning
costs and potential changes necessitated by changing technologies. Recommended that 1)The City continue to
utilize the Committees to make recommendations. 2)That the City proceed with the project immediately. 3)That
the City meet with Falcon Cable to discuss system compatibility between the two systems.
City Administrator Mike Freeman noted the importance of this project for the City, and gave a brief history of
the project to date. Noted that various scenarios have been looked at, and R.W. Beck's scenario #1 is
recommended. Explained that the initial interest in this project stemmed from the need to find means to deal
with the possibility of eventual deregulation of the utility industry. Federal legislation, in the form of the
Telecommunications Act of 1996 encourages utilities to pursue projects of this nature. Explained the numerous
advantages offered by the proposed Ashland Fiber Network. Noted that staff has done a great deal of work since
the March 17th public hearing, and staff reports have been revised and reviewed by the two advisory committees.
City Council Meeting 09-01-98 3
Director of Finance Jill Turner emphasized that several scenarios have been looked at thoroughly over the past
seven months, and changes have been made. Stated that the present numbers are sound, and would be looked at
favorably on the revenne bond market. Confirmed that she has discussed the project with the City's financial
advisors, and they agree that numbers tbr the project are favorable and that scenario #1 is recommended.
Explained the timeframe that would follow project approval. First, a reimbursement resolution would be brought
before Council to reimburse current expenses at the time of bond issuance. Second, a rate structure would need
to be designed betbre seeking financing. Then a marketing resolution would come to Council, so that the City
could pursue sale of revenue bonds privately or on the open market. The final step would be a final resolution
for the bond issuance. Explained that the fiscal process involved would take 60-100 days, and because of
Finance Department workloads she would like to complete the process this fiscal year.
Director of Electrical Utilities Pete Lovrovich confirmed that currently, twelve miles of fiber have been installed,
along with important hardware to enable the Electric Department to use the fiber for outage detection and remote
monitoring. Existing efficiencies will be greatly improved, and the Department would like to begin an
Automated Meter Reading (AMR) pilot project. Provided a tentative schedule for the roll-out of services to
include high speed data transfer, cable modems, and cable access television. Explained that initial connections
would be to local schools, and that this would occur late this fall. At that time, in addition to schools, the
University, City, businesses and other large customers would be connected. Small businesses and residential
service would follow, because these initial connections would be the same ones used to provide CATV service.
Noted that he had met with the Oregon Technology and Telecommunications Committee, which wants to
establish service to the entire state. Emphasized that it is the City's intention to have the capacity for interaction
with other systems, for connectivity to other areas of the valley and beyond. Stated that the Technical Advisory
Committee will continue to look at this issue, and bring further information back to Council.
Councilor Wheeldon asked for clarification of the time flame. Lovrovich explained that the schools, Ashland
Community Hospital, and the library would be connected late this fall. Later in the fall and winter, additional
nodes would be connected. Stated that they hope to have the entire City connected within 14 months, by the end
of October, 1999. Councilor Wheeldon clarified for viewers that this would not be a required service, that
connections would be voluntary and that the project would be financed by its own revenues. Emphasized that in
this regard, it is identical to the water utility. Stated that it would not increase other utility rates, or property
taxes.
Councilor Laws explained that while the project would be funded with revenues, the City would back the
financing in the highly unlikely event that the project failed. Director of Finance Jill Turner confirmed that the
plan is intended to be self-paying, but that a secondary pledge guaranteeing the financing with assets or
secondary revenues might be necessary in the bonding process.
Public hearing opened at 8:05 p.m.
John W. Nicholson/1575 Greenmeadows Way/Submitted a copy of a letter to the Ashland Daily Tidings urging
that further City participation in the project be submitted to a vote of the people.
Marilyn Briggs/590 Glenview Drive/Submitted letter for the record.
Steve Smickland/ll80 N. Pioneer Street/Works for OMMI, a non-profit organization funded through SOREDI
to encourage multimedia projects in Southern Oregon. Feels that the AFN would encourage new businesses in
Ashland, and help existing businesses better serve large corporate customers. Stated that he is not alone in
needing to better serve large national corporate clients from Ashland, and only a fiber network system will
provide the level of technology to accomplish this.
Civ:, Council Meeting 09-01-98 4
Megan Mitchell/180 N. Pioneer Street/Explained that she works as a daytrader, trading stocks via computer.
The options available to her under the Ashland Fiber Network would make her business more viable. Currently,
she pays approximately $1000 in long distance charges each month, because she needs to call New York City for
6t/2-hours per day for a high speed internet connection. A comparable connection would be available locally
with the AFN.
Senator Lenn L. Itannon/240 Scenic Drive/Speaking as an Ashland citizen of 54 years, rather than as a
legislator. Noted his support for the project, but urged caution in moving forward. Noted that the State of
Oregon is in the process of installing a cable along the I-5 corridor tbr a statewide network. Urged a
compromise between the factions that have developed around this project, and offered his services to mediate a
dialogue between these public and private factions.
Jim Watson/515 Guthrie Street/Ashland Conununity Hospital Administrator/On behalf of the board of
directors of the hospital, he expressed support for the project and expressed the desire that it move forward.
John Daggett/355 Fernwood Drive/Ashland School District/Noted that he had spoken with representatives of
Cedar Falls, IA about their similar project, and they are very pleased with the outcome. Emphasized that
Ashland's network is designed to have considerably more capacity, which will enable the City to offer such
features as real-time video conferencing. Emphasized that the School District is interested in a partnership in this
project with the City.
Loren Luman/1701 Butler Creek Road/Ashland School District/Noted that the timing of this technology's
becoming available is good, as the School District has resources available to pursue it. Stated that currently,
interconnectivity between schools is minimal, but that it would be greatly improved with the implementation of
the AFN.
Steve Belsky/609 Elkader Street/Ashland School District/Noted his work with the schools on behalf of Project
A, and explained that the AFN would make possible services such as distance learning, voice identification
programs, video on demand, and will provide for unprecedented interactivity between schools.
Cate Hartzell/881 East Main Street/Excited because the City's participation will bring equity and social values
to the project. Unlike a private business, the City will be able to provide free access stations around town, and a
community web-site. Emphasized that public involvement counts, and that it cannot be matched in the private
sector.
David Fine/735 Frances Lane/Emphasized that in his work as an attorney, he needs the services to be offered
through the AFN now. Provided the example of his work in intellectual property law, wherein he must use his
personal computer in Ashland to access a mainframe in Boston, and download voluminous information via a 56K
modem. In one instance recently, a single download took 25 minutes. But he was able to download the same
information during the AFN Open House in 11/2 minutes. By the time he transferred the information to clients
on-line with his personal computer, it took him 1 tAhours, but would have taken barely 31/2 minutes had the AFN
been available. This level of service is needed to encourage jobs in Ashland, and will be a cornerstone to
Ashland's continued economic development.
S.A. "Sherm" Gardiner/615 Faith Avenue/Approves of the AFN for City use, but disapproves of pursuing
business applications. Cited Article 11, Section 9 of the Oregon State Constitution, adopted in June of 1917,
which deals with the "Limitations on Power of County or City to Assist Corporations", as prohibiting the City's
pursuing this project as a business venture.
Tom Garland/47 Union Street/He recently relocated to Ashland in anticipation of the Ashland Fiber Network,
and he endorses the project.
City Council Meeting 09-01-98 5
Gavin Grei/885 Clay Street, #144/SOU Student/Emphasized that he, and many other SOU students, will be
benefitted by the improved download and data retrieval times available through the AFN.
Matt Stillman/220 West Rapp Road, #138, Talent/ASSOU/Emphasized that technological improvements are
essential, and that SOU students support cheaper, faster, better services.
John Gaffey/637 Oak Street/Stated his opposition to the AFN and to the City's being in business. Stated that
the AFN began as a prophylactic measure to address the possible effects of deregulation on the City's electrical
utility, and suggested that the citizens' desire to continue operating the utility should have been put to a vote.
Also expressed concern that the City has published monthly cable rates already, when no commission has yet
been convened to determine programming content. Questioned whether those expressing support would be
willing to provide up front financial support.
John Huskey/173 Alder Lane/ASSOU Director of Communications/Read letters from Sophia McDonald,
ASSOU President, and William Davis, Director of SOU's Non-Traditional and Commuter Student Center in
support of the project.
Sue Densmore/7 Glen Oak Drive, Medford/Falcon Cable/Noted that Falcon's president has suggested the
possibility of a unique, mutually beneficial public-private partnership between Falcon and the City of Ashland.
Urged that the City and Falcon work together on this project for a win-win situation to save citizen dollars and
benefit the community.
Mike Stallcup/340 A Street/Vice President of Interactive Media Development for Project A/On behalf of the
Interactive Media Development Division, emphasized that high speed data transfer service is essential, and
without this service they would be forced to take that part of their business elsewhere. They are in favor of the
AFN. Noted the time they have invested in support of this project, and in staying in Ashland. Emphasized that
they recently moved into a 11,000 square foot building redesigned to take advantage of the AFN and its services.
Jim Teece/864 Neil Creek Road/President and CEO of Project A/Noted that Project A currently employs over
32 people in Ashland, and they have moved four times in the past six years as their business has expanded.
City Administrator Mike Freeman noted that letters had been received from the Ashland Chamber of Commerce
and Southern Oregon University in support of the AFN.
Bud Coffman/Owner of Croman Corporation/Noted his hope to create a high-tech business park at the former
Croman Corporation mill site on Mistletoe Road. The AFN would be a great asset in this pursuit, and would
generate a great deal of money for the City.
Brad Szyrnalak/125 Lincoln Street/As an internet user, he feels a project like this is needed for the speed it will
provide. Stated that Ashland will serve as a model for the nation, and that he is honored to be in the community.
Emphasized that the services to be provided will be a model, are visionary, and that money should not be an
issue.
Public hearing closed at 8:57 p.m. (Break called until 9:05p. tn.)
Councilor Wheeldon questioned how cable television rates had been projected. City Administrator Mike
Freeman explained that the City has joined a non-profit organization which provides programming, and as such
has an idea o£ the potential costs. Emphasized that a committee would need to convene to determine specific
programming content, but at this point, the City knows what programming costs will be. Councilor Hauck also
noted that programming costs and requirements for various service tiers are set under federal regulations.
City Council Meeting 09-01-98 6
Councilor Wheeldon questioned Senator Hannon's statement that the state is installing a cable for a statewide
network. Freeman noted that in recent discussions with US West, he had been told that US West will not be
providing services similar to the AFN in the near future. Stated that he was unaware of a state system.
Councilor Hauck stated that other states have developed a statewide network, and that the AFN would not
prevent a connection to such a network.
Councilor Laws emphasized that approval of the AFN project at this point will leave details open. Emphasized
that partnerships, including a potential partnership with Falcon Cable, would still be a possibility. Explained that
the City's concern is that a private provider should not have a monopoly on the fiber connections. Feels that
connections should be public, but that the City is open to potential partnerships in the delivery of services.
Emphasized the City's desire to seriously look at partnerships.
Councilor Hauck emphasized that the AFN needs to be a community controlled resource, both in terms of access
and technology.
Councilor DeBoer stated that the project will be a challenge, and emphasized the need to look at bookkeeping to
identify the true costs of personnel involved in the project.
Councilor Hagen stated that it is the responsibility of the Council to ensure that the City utilities stay competitive,
and emphasized that this is a huge step in that direction.
City Administrator Mike Freeman noted that his comments which identified letters from SOU and the Ashland
Chamber of Commerce as strongly supporting the AFN may not have been a proper characterization of their
content, and urged that Councilors read these letters.
Reading by title only of "A Resolution Approving the Ashland Fiber Network's Scenario 1 or Most Likely
Case and Authorizing Staff to Develop and Pursue a Financing Plan."
Councilors Hauck/Hagen m/s to adopt Resolution g98-22. Roll call vote: Laws, Hauck, Hagen, Wheeldon,
and DeBoer, YES. Motion passed.
PUBLIC FORUM
Opened to public comments at 9:15 p.m.
Cate Hartzell/881 East Main Street/Indicated that the "SmartWood" forestry certification program presentation
that she was to have discussed this evening, along with forester Steve Gretzinger of the Rogue Institute for
Ecology and Economy, had been rescheduled to the regular meeting of the Ashland City Council scheduled for
September 15th.
Closed to public comments at 9:17 p.m.
UNHNISHED BUSINESS
(None)
NEW AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS
1. Council Meeting Look Ahead.
City Administrator Mike Freeman indicated that this item was presented for Council information purposes, and
he would answer any questions the Councilors might have. Councilor Wheeldon questioned item #9, which
stated that there was a public hearing scheduled for September 15~h concerning Clover Lane. City Attorney Paul
Nolte explained that an application had been received to vacate a portion of the street, and that it had been
approved by the Planning Commission. Stated that information will be included in the Council packets for
September 1 yh, and a public hearing will occur October 6th. Freeman indicated that this would be corrected on
the next Look Ahead.
CiD' Council Meeting 09-01-98 7
2. Consideration of L.I.D. Committee Report.
City Administrator Mike Freeman explained that at this point, staff is looking for Council to accept or make
changes to the Committee's recommendations to lead to an eventual ordinance change.
Councilor Wheeldon noted Steve Morjig's commems on funds, and discussed the nuances of finances, limits, and
interfund borrowing. Emphasized the need for neighborhood participation, coordinated with the efforts of Public
Works and Community Development to ensure that streets are of a quality to satisfy both the citizens and the
City. Noted that this will require improvements in the overall process.
Councilor Laws explained that aspects of the process involving neighborhood participation could not be
addressed at the committee level, and it was the assumption of the committee that staff would develop
administrative procedures to improve the process based on the Council's direction.
Councilor Hagen questioned whether improvements involving just sidewalk improvements would be covered at
60% by the City. Council agreed that this would be the case, subject to the availability of funds. Also noted that
the Committee's developing a proposal and expecting that the Council would adopt it as submitted, without any
changes, is distressing.
Mayor Shaw explained that in the committee process, the committee makes a recommendation to the Council and
to the community at large. This recommendation is looked at, and considered along with community input to
yield a decision by the Council. Emphasized that final decisions are not made by committees, and that decisions
are not reached prior to public hearings.
Councilor Hagen suggested that the rest of the community has not had adequate time to understand the
implications of these recommendations, and emphasized that they will affect the levels of service received from
the City.
Councilor Laws, as chairman of the committee, stated that the committee did not say it expected no changes to
its recommendations, but rather individual committee members made this request to the Council through the
public hearing. Emphasized that this situation was due to the disparity in opinions present within the committee.
Explained that despite strong feelings for their individual positions, members were able to compromise in order
to make possible reforms in the LID process. Reiterated that a lot of hard work was involved in reaching a
consensus, and that all members gave ground t¥om their original positions in order that the committee could
reach a consensus that all could sign off on. Noted that this issue has been around for years, and that there will
never be an all-inclusive solution. However, the wide range of views present on the committee were able to
reach a consensus, and it is now up to the Council to reach a decision. Emphasized that if a Councilor disagrees
with the report, he or she should vote accordingly. Stated that the time has come to deal with this issue, and that
it will require addressing financial components as well. Concluded that the LID situation can be worked out
through this process.
Councilor DeBoer recognized that the current LID situation does not work, and urged verbatim passage of the
committee's report as a working document. Stated that there will be changes down the road. Emphasized that
he is committed to alternative transportation. Urged passage of the recommendations and use of available funds.
Future improvemems will be guided by funding.
Mayor Shaw stated that the LID issue is acrimonious and most divisive. Emphasized that the common
perception of the process is that citizens pay to support development. Expressed her hope that the
recommendations will solve some of these issues. Recognized that the potential for diversion of funds away
t¥om other options is a concern and will need to be looked at. Also recognized that staff spends a huge amount
of time dealing with issues of the current LID process. A decision tonight could free up staff and council to deal
with other issues. Suggested that any documem adopted should not be considered to be a working document, as
any "wiggle room" will come back before the Council. Emphasized that a consistent policy is needed, and that
changes should be made to the current policy and then kept to put the issue to bed once and for all.
City Council Meeting 09-01-98 8
Councilor Hauck noted that being able to prepay an assessment and retaining the right to remonstrate is a
problem. Stated that someone who had already paid their portion of an improvement project should not be able
to stop the project at a later date. Stated that they would still have the opportunity to speak out during the public
process. Also suggested that financial planning should be addressed, and that there will be trade-off's in the
details and priorities. Will need to decide where money is to come from and what will be put off to allow these
projects to continue. If this is not to be the case, other options will need to be identified.
Councilor Hagen noted that bikepath improvements have taken decades, and funds came from ISTEA and
CMAQ. The City did not pay for these projects, though some funds came from sidewalks. Emphasized that the
Central Ashland Bikepath (CAB) will be a critical improvement for the City, and that the fewer people driving
the better. Recognized that the City's fare reduction program with RVTD is good, but improvements could be
made in the City's transit system.
Councilor Wheeldon noted that she was a committee member and had dissented. Stated that her concerns were
with the cap. Emphasized that there could be a $1.7 million increase in the City share due to the caps. Feels
that this should be funded through a bond issue for the amount and time frame necessary. Suggested that the
council take the time to look at this issue, keeping in mind that sidewalks and arterial streets need funding as
well. Feels that the transportation utility fee is suited to use on alternative transportation programs or safety
projects, but a big ticket plan of this nature is more on the level of a system plan. Expressed her hope that the
committee's report can be seen as an agenda from which to move Ibrward.
Mayor Shaw stated that she hopes this will not increase the transportation utility fee. Explained that any increase
in this fee should go towards an RVTD voucher system for citizens.
Councilor DeBoer noted that the cap is presented in a misleading manner in the staff report. Explained that the
committee had dealt with the cap issue, but the report from staff is misleading. Also noted that while he is happy
with the report, he views all documents as "working documents". Emphasized that if handled properly, those
who pre-pay will not remonstrate. Stated that paving costs the citizens, and the City should bear its share.
Agreed with Councilor Hagen on the importance of alternative transportation, and urged passage of this report to
improve the handling of the next LID project, as well as the six that are currently underway.
Discussion of the proposed $4,000 cap, inflation, and the cost of funding a big ticket plan of this nature.
Councilor Laws suggested looking at transportation issues as a whole. Emphasized that all issues being
discussed - including alternative transportation and environmental concerns - are all addressed by paving. Will
need to fund projects year to year, as funding is available in the budget. Stated that dealing with the LID issue
will alleviate much distress. Suggests approving the policy, with any changes, and working out the financial
side.
Councilor Wheeldon suggested that the report is a series of recommendations, and not a policy. Feels that a
policy needs to be built around it, to lock the City in and to clean up some of the details. Stated that
recommendations can be accepted, then a policy formatted and funding found.
Discussion of funding used on Central Ashland Bikepath (CAB) and whether these funds were merely "pass-
through" dollars from ISTEA and CMAQ.
Councilors Hauck/Hagen m/s to extend the meeting to 10:30. Voice vote: All AYES. Motion passed.
MOTION: Councilors Wheeldon/Hauck m/s to accept the L.I.D. Committee Report, to form an L.I.D.
policy using the L.I.D. Committee Report, and to ask staff to bring back information identifying a funding
source for the full amount of the City's participation in local improvement projects over a twenty year
period.
City Council Meeting 09-01-98 9
DISCUSSION: Councilor Hagen questioned whether the City's 40% participation in improvements under
the plan is more than the City can afford. Discussed taking inflation into account in the plan. Councilor
Laws noted concerns with the funding mechanism, as needs will change. Discussion of amending the
motion to adopt the procedure in the report and seek further funding information from staff over time.
Suggested that this is a system plan and emphasized the need to find funding.
City Administrator Mike Freeman asked to clarify the motion. Noted his concerns over the possibility of
funding a plan twenty years out. Explained that uncertainties, such as those brought about by the passage
of Ballot Measure 5, make this very difficult. Stated that some LIDs may not be built and that the need
for funding will be dependent on the timing of individual projects. These will need to be funded as they
arise. Feels that the motion is too specific, and such specificity for a twenty year plan would require
significant assumptions that are difficult to make in light of the uncertainties involved.
Mayor Shaw stressed the need to identify where funding will be found, and urged that implementation of
the recommendations not detract from other Council goals.
Councilor Laws stated that the City would need to plan on the $200,000 per year cost identified in the staff
report, over a period of time.
Councilor Hagen suggested discussing a fair percentage for City participation.
Councilor DeBoer stated that staff is involved as part of the committee proposal, and that funding could be
found through the budget process. Suggested amending the motion.
MOTION TO AMEND: Councilor DeBoer moved to amend the motion, removing the requirement that
staff bring back information identifying a funding source. Motion died for lack of a second.
DISCUSSION: Discussed what form a financing plan would be brought forth in, and noted the need to find
$4 million over twenty years. Councilor Hauck clarified that Councilor Wheeldon wanted an ordinance
implementing the committee recommendations.
Councilor Laws identified issues that had come forth so fare as 1)Where will funding be found? 2)What
parts of the committee's recommendations will be adopted? Suggested that Councilors go back through the
committee report individually, and bring back their comments and suggestions to a later meeting.
Discussed what was needed to reach an agreement. Councilor Wheeldon explained that she would like the
Council to work on developing a City policy based on the committee recommendations.
City Administrator Mike Freeman suggested reopening discussion at a study session, looking at financing
options and drafting an ordinance at a later date. Council stated that this was agreeable, and opted to vote
on the motion before them.
ROLL CALL VOTE (ORIGINAL MOTION): Hauck, Hagen, Wheeldon, and Laws, YES. DeBoer, NO.
Motion passed 4-1.
ORDINANCES~ RESOLUTIONS AND CONTRACTS
1. Second reading by title only of "An Ordinance Amending Section One of Ordinance 2582 to
Extend the Franchise Term for Ashland Sanitary Service to the Year 2018."
Councilors Hagen/DeBoer m/s to adopt Ordinance g2829. Roll call vote: Hagen, Wheeldon, DeBoer,
Laws, and Hauck, YES. Motion passed.
2. Second reading by title only of "An Ordinance Amending Section 9.20.030.A of the Ashland
Municipal Code to Permit Meat to be Packaged in Styrofoam."
Councilors Hagen/Hauck m/s to adopt Ordinance g2828. Roll call vote: Wheeldon, DeBoer, Laws, Hauck,
and Hagen, YES. Motion passed.
City. Council Meeting 09-01-98 10
3. Reading by title only of "A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Ashland Reiterating its
Policy of Relating the Expenditure of Monies for Economic and Cultural Development to the
Hotel/Motel (Transient Occupancy) Tax and Repealing Resolution 98-02."
Councilors Hauck/Hagen m/s to adopt Resolution #98-23. Roll call vote: DeBoer, Laws, Hauck, Hagen,
and Wheeldon, YES. Motion passed.
4. Reading by title only of "A Resolution Approving the Ashland Fiber Network's Scenario 1 or Most
Likely Case and Authorizing Staff to Develop and Pursue a Financing Plan."
(Dealt with under Public Hearings.)
5. Reading by title only of "A Resolution Authorizing Water Connection Outside of City Limits for
Mary Rolih, 2290 E. Main Street."
Councilors Wheeldon/Laws m/s to adopt Resolution g98-21. Roll call vote: Hauck, Hagen, Wheeldon,
DeBoer, and Laws, YES. Motion passed.
6. Reading by title only of "A Resolution Exempting Personal Services Contract for Management
Information System Consultant from Formal Competitive Selection Procedures Required under
Resolution 94-21."
City Administrator Mike Freeman provided some background information. Noted that in the technology
assessment that was done soon after his coming to the City, it was suggested that the City needed to work on
ensuring that "due diligence" occurred up front in selecting technology. Explained that the use of a Management
Information System Consultant serves that purpose through helping to assess technological needs.
Councilors Hauck/Wheeldon m/s to adopt Resolution//98-20. Roll call vote: Hauck, Hagen, Wheeldon,
DeBoer, and Laws, YES. Motion passed.
OTHER BUSINESS FROM COUNCIL MEMBERS
Mayor Shaw noted a recent incident involving someone who was interested in filming a motion picture in Lithia
Park. This request was referred to the Ashland Parks and Recreation Commission and was unanimously
declined because only "non-commercial" ventures were allowed in the park. The Mayor explained the quandary
created, as the Chamber of Commerce, in cooperation with City staff, have prepared a guidebook which
specifically mentions filming in the park. Noted that the Ashland Parks and Recreation Commission is set to re-
examine this issue in January of 1999. Stated that more communication is needed between the Ashland Parks
and Recreation Commission, the City and the Chamber of Commerce, and suggested that the Council draft a
letter on this issue. Councilor Laws suggested that Mayor Shaw and staff meet with Ken Mickelsen, Director of
the Parks Department, and the Ashland Parks and Recreation Commission Chair to address the quandary created
by this policy. Discussion clarified that the guidebook mentioned had been prepared through the Chamber of
Co~ranerce, but City staff and officials had input.
City Administrator Mike Freeman noted that there was to be a joint meeting between the Council and the
Planning Commission on September 29th at 7 p.m.
Freeman also indicated that the Ashland Parks and Recreation Commission had requested a joint meeting to
discuss issues around the Calle, and that a date remains to be announced for that meeting.
Councilors and viewers were reminded that the next City Council meeting is the study session scheduled for
Tuesday, September 15th at 6:00 p.m., prior to the regular meeting, to discuss the draft communication plan.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 10:28 p.m.
Derek Severson, Assistant to the City Recorder
Catherine M. Shaw, Mayor
Ci~ Council Meeting 09-01-98 11
