M E M O R A N D U M 05-167

TO: MAYOR HORNADAY AND HOMER CITY COUNCIL

FROM: DENNIS NOVAK, COUNCILMEMBER

DATE: OCTOBER 19, 2005

SUBJ: DISCUSSIONS BETWEEN THE HOMER ADVISORY PLANNING COMMISSION, PLANNING STAFF AND THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS CONCERNING THE ABILITY OF THE CITY OF HOMER TO REQUIRE OFF SITE IMPROVEMENTS AS A PART OF PRELIMINARY PLATTING ACTIONS AND SUBDIVISION DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENTS.

In reviewing a recent subdivision plat Public Works has asked the developer to construct a sidewalk between the development and a nearby elementary school sidewalk network. The issue here is pedestrian access, safety, and connections between proposed developments and nearby developed areas.

The question is whether the City has the authority to require off-site improvements as a condition to Platt approval. See letter form Gordon Tans dated February 23, 1993 referring to file number 13126-0500 suggesting that such authority might exist under the general terms of a comprehensive plan.

The City Attorney appears to state that the City can grant itself the authority to require off-site improvements through an amendment to the Homer City Code.

Recommendation:

The Homer City Council directs the City Administration to draft the appropriate ordinance amendments to address the off-site impacts of future developments in the City of Homer, and present the proposed ordinance amendments at the November 28th City Council meeting.

Fiscal Note: NA.