Session 04-02, a Regular Meeting of the Homer City Council was called to order at 7:03 p.m. by Mayor Jack Cushing at the Homer City Hall Council
Chambers located at 491 E Pioneer Avenue, Homer, Alaska, and opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.
The Committee of the Whole meeting was held from 4:08 to 5:30 p.m. regarding the Regular Meeting Agenda, Bill Popp, Oil and Gas Liaison, gave an
update on Oil and Gas Matters, Kenai Peninsula Borough, and the Council Kenai Peninsula Borough Comprehensive Plan.
A Special Meeting was held from 5:30 to 7:02.5 p.m. to conduct an Executive Session.
PRESENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: BECK, FENSKE, LADD, NOVAK, STARK.
STAFF: CITY MANAGER WREDE
CITY CLERK CALHOUN
CITY ATTORNEY TANS
CITY PLANNER MCKIBBEN
FINANCE DIRECTOR BAUGH
LIBRARY DIRECTOR HILL
PORT/HARBOR DIRECTOR ABBOTT
PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR MEYER
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER: YOURKOWSKI (excused)
AGENDA APPROVAL
(Addition of items to or removing items from the agenda will be by unanimous consent of the Council. HCC 1.24.040.)
The agenda was approved by consensus of the City Council, with addition to the Consent Agenda Item P. Memorandum 04-12, Travel Authorization;
with the addition of a public hearing, Item D. Resolution 04-14, correction to the Port/Harbor Tariff Revision of Resolution 03-154(S) and addition of
this Resolution to Resolutions as Item G. for action so that this may be incorporated into the current revision process. Substitute under New Business:
Memorandum 04-09(S), some corrections were made, and new maps have been supplied.
Mayor Cushing asked that the Cub Scouts/Presentation be moved to just after Agenda Approval.
There were no objections.
Presentation by the Cub Scouts, Pack 555, Den 7, Wolves, Donation for the Library
The Cub Scouts made some wood reindeer and angels, sold these at the Christmas Bizarre and made $220.70. They gave this money to the Library for the Building Project. Adult Leaders Dean and Joanna Baugh: Scouts: David Baugh, Chase Crauthers, Robert Dinneen, Jake Eckert, Scout Hodge,
Derek Johnson, Sam Owens, Alexander Romanko, Colby Willson.
PUBLIC COMMENTS UPON MATTERS ALREADY ON THE AGENDA
Public Comments upon matters on the agenda except for the Public Hearing Items: Mariner Village/Thorn Subdivision Water and Sewer Final
Assessment Roll, Ordinance 03-52,Appropriating Monies from the Alaska Department of Community and Economic Development, Fisheries
Revitalization Aid, in the Amount of $80,914.12, for a Port/Harbor Restroom, Resolution 04-01, Dissolution of the Library Trust Account and
Transfer the Funds to the Friends of the Library to Create an Endowment Fund with the Homer Foundation, and Resolution 04-14, Of the City
Council of Homer, Alaska Correcting an Error in the Port of Homer Terminal Tariff No. 600 Revision of Resolution 03-154(S).
Barbara Peterson voiced some comments and concerns to the Council regarding the Ocean Drive Loop Sewer Improvement District, Resolution
03-137(S) and voiced appreciation of the time the Council has spent considering this district. She stated that the LID, as presented by Carey Meyer,
Public Works Director, has addressed the issues that the initiators of the LID wanted to see addressed. She emphasized her concern that the
environmental issues and the habitat issues are not addressed that exist in the Oscar Munson Subdivision and Ocean Drive Loop, pointing out that
many of these have been addressed very adequately and well in the Council's packet. She added that one of the major drainages, since this is a gravity
feed from the bluff side toward the slough side, that seems to be important, in this gravity feed, is what they call "the dip", on the slough side road and
that "the dip" is there due to the natural drainage of the center part of Ocean Drive Loop Subdivision, the trees, foliage, roots and everything are in
place to allow that drainage to happen. She relayed that several years ago someone told her that the slough side of the subdivision is the wet side and
that the Ocean side is the dry side. She further relayed that Carey ? explained to her, recently, that this is because "this" is tilted toward the slough and
why all the drainage happens down this drainage ditch. She informed the Council that when they first moved to this subdivision they experienced the
wet side with several weeks out of the year, during break up, when they could not drive and would walk in. She commented that when they first came
to stay in their little place in this subdivision, the City grader was sitting in mud up to the cab. She stated that she just wanted to point out that,
environmentally, the land and the soil on this side is very wet and she is very concerned about disturbing the ditch, as it exists now, in order to allow the
sewer to be put in. She voiced her hope that if the Council does approve this LID, as originally created, that there is an opportunity for the property
owners involved to be updated with the engineer as it goes along. She advised that Carey? mentioned that the engineer does a 35% plan and a 65%
plan before the 100% plan. Mrs. Peterson shared her understanding that there will be soil samples and lots of care taken in creating this LID. Not
knowing the protocol, she voiced hope that the property owners can be involved as it goes along. because of the habitat, the moose habitat and the
environmental factors. She advised that most of them on the slough side have a real interest in maintaining this area as close as they can to the way that
it is and has been and so are concerned about the environment. She told the Council that, because they are concerned about the environment, over the
years, whenever possible, they have purchased property so that they could maintain the environment. Mrs. Peterson stated that she does not know how
to address this, that she does not know how to legislate that this be a cooperative adventure, if the Council does approve the LID as it stands. She
reiterated appreciation for the fact that the Council has taken time with this and that Carey? was asked to look at this for those who would like to be
removed from the LID. She asked that, if the Council does redefine the boundaries so that they are removed from the LID, that their one remaining
piece of property be included in that removal. She, on behalf of Mrs. Woodhead, relayed a request that Mrs. Woodhead's piece of property right next to
the one that is out of the LID be considered to be removed, if the Council decides to go in that direction. She concluded by saying that she just needed
to say these things, her concerns and thanked the Council very much. She responded to a question regarding the map that she was holding, that the red
color represents objections.
Nancy Lord commented on Memorandum 04-08, from the City Manager, regarding the Land Bank Reserve Fund and that she remembered very well
when the Council took up the Land Bank a couple years ago, having testified at two public hearings on it and that she could swear that the Council
adopted that. She recalled that it was modeled on the Anchorage one, that Council did a lot of word smithing on getting it right for Homer and that she
thought it a great idea. She encouraged the Council to go back, revisit the issue, establish the Land Bank and that she thinks it is a very appropriate
thing for Homer. She noted that this is a way to hold money in reserve for land purchases, for when the City sells property and to apply to other land
purchases so that the land base does not dwindle away. She thanked the Council very much for the opportunity to speak on this.
Don McNamara commented on Ocean Drive Loop Sewer, advised that he is representing several land owners and that they would like this to go
forward with the sewer as it was originated, on page 343 in packet. He stated that he just saw from Barb's ? red map that she had there that there are a
couple of white spaces on the far west showing Homer owners who would like to have sewer. He addressed the comment about the wetness, that is the
problem on Ocean Drive, that they just can't get percolation very easily without doing an expensive mound system. He emphasized that they did go
through the democratic process and had over 51% of the land owners who wanted to have the sewer LID formed. He told the Council that he would
kind of like them to follow through with it and that it would be greatly appreciated. He thanked the Council.
RECONSIDERATION
None scheduled.
CONSENT AGENDA
(Items listed below will be enacted by one motion. If separate discussion is desired on an item, that item may be removed from the Consent Agenda and
placed on the Regular Meeting Agenda at the request of a Councilmember.)
Councilmember Stark requested that Item O. be removed for discussion.
Mayor Cushing stated that this would be placed under New Business.
A. Homer City Council unapproved meeting minutes of November 24, 2003 Regular Meeting and December 8, 2003 Regular Meeting and December
15, 2003 Special Meeting. Recommend approval.
B. Ordinance 04-01, Of the City Council, Amending Homer City Code Sections 8.12.150, Vehicle Permit-- Term, Issuance and Fee; 8.12.200, Chauffeur's License -- Required. City Clerk. Recommend introduction, conduct public hearing and second reading on January 26, 2004.
B.1. Resolution 04- Of the City Council, Amending the City of Homer Fee Schedule, Public Safety Fees, Public Transportation. City Clerk.
Follows same schedule as Ordinance 04-01.
C. Ordinance 04-02, Of the City Council Amending Homer City Code Regarding Driveway Permit, Section 11.08.040, Permit Required. City Clerk.
Recommend introduction, conduct public hearing and second reading on January 26, 2004.
D. Ordinance 04-03, Of the City Council Amending Homer City Code, Fireworks, Section 5.24.050, Exceptions for Authorized Exhibits -- Permit
Required. City Clerk. Recommend introduction, conduction public hearing and second reading on January 26, 2004.
E. Ordinance 04-04, Of the City Council Amending Homer City Code Sections 14.04.055, Sewer Connection and Extension Permit Fee, and
14.08.035, Water Connection and Extension Permit Fee. City Clerk. Recommend introduction, conduction public hearing and second reading on
January 26, 2004.
F. Resolution 04-02, Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska Awarding the Contract for the Port Security Fence and Gate Installation to the Firm of
East Road Services Inc. Of Homer, Alaska in the Amount of $39,989.00 and Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the Appropriate Documents.
Port/Harbor. City Clerk Fiscal Note: Budgeted in Acct. 415-915, TSA Grant. Recommend adoption.
Memorandum 04-03, from Port/Harbor Director.
G. Resolution 04-03, Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska Awarding the Contract for Professional Planning Services for a Homer Non Motorized
Transportation and Trails Plan to the Firm of Dowl Engineers of Anchorage, Alaska in the Amount of $29,986.00 and Authorizing the City Manager to
Execute the Appropriate Documents. Administrative Assistant. City Clerk. Fiscal Note: Project Budgeted in Acct. 151-783, DCED Mini Grant of
$30,000.00 Recommend adoption.
Memorandum 04-04, from Administrative Assistant as backup.
H. Resolution 04-04, Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska Awarding the Contract for the City Hall, Parks and Cemeteries Maintenance 2004, 2005
and 2006 to the Firm of B & C Lawn Care of Anchor Point, Alaska in the Amount of $16,195.90 and Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the
Appropriate Documents. Public Works. City Clerk. Fiscal Note: Budgeted in Acct. 100.175. Recommend adoption.
Memorandum 04-05, from Public Works as backup.
I. Resolution 04-05, Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska Renaming Forrest Glenn Street to Tundra Rose Road within the City of Homer in
Compliance with the Enhanced 911 Street Addressing Program. Planning. Fiscal Note: Cost of Street Sign. Recommend adoption.
Memorandum 04-06, from Planning as backup.
J. Resolution 04-06, Of the City Council Amending the City of Homer Procurement Policy and Procedures Manual, Travel Authorization and
Expenditure Report Forms Regarding the Personal Auto Use Mileage Rate from $0.36 to $0.375 for 2004. Finance. City Clerk. Recommend adoption.
K. Resolution 04-07, Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Authorizing the City to Apply to the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation for a Loan from the Alaska Clean Water and Drinking Water Funds for the Construction of a 2005 Water Distribution and Wastewater Collection Project. Public Works. Finance. Recommend adoption.
L. Resolution 04-08, Of the Homer City Council Confirming the Appointment of Dean Baugh as Treasurer for Calendar Year 2004. City Manager.
Recommend adoption.
M. Resolution 04-09, Of the Homer City Council Confirming the Appointment of Lisa Vaughn as the Deputy Treasurer for Calendar Year 2004. City
Manager. Recommend adoption.
N. Resolution 04-10, Of the Homer City Council Joining Governor Frank Murkowski, The Alaska Municipal League, and Fellow Municipalities
Across the State in Declaring January 11-17,2004 to be Alaska Local Government Week. Mayor. Council. City Manager. Recommend adoption.
O. Memorandum 04-02, from Mayor Cushing, Re: Reappointment of Anne Marie Holen to the Economic Development District as Homer's. Recommend confirmation.
Placed under New Business as Item C.
Agenda Addition: P. Memorandum 04-12, Requested by Mayor, Re: Travel Authorization for the Mayor Pro Tempore Fenske to attend the Alaska
Conference of Mayors Meeting in Juneau on January 26 and 27, 2004.
BECK/FENSKE - MOVED FOR THE ADOPTION AND/OR APPROVAL OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE ENTIRE CONSENT
AGENDA AS READ.
VOTE:(excluding item O.) YES: NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
VISITORS
None scheduled.
ANNOUNCEMENTS/PRESENTATIONS/BOROUGH REPORT/COMMISSION REPORTS
A. Presentation by the Cub Scouts, Pack 555, Den 7, Wolves, Donation for the Library.
Moved to just after Agenda Approval at the request of the Mayor.
Planning Commission Chair, Bill Smith addressed the Council regarding the Commission/Council process of addressing the Large Retail and Wholesale
Structure Development Impact Statement and Standards. He stated that he wanted to arrange for meetings with the Council. He suggested that two
Commissioners meet with the Council during the Committee of the Whole on February 9th, to present the Ordinance that they are preparing on
building standards, explain how the Ordinance is put together, maybe provide a flow chart and just explain what is going on. He stated that this would
provide a foundation for Council's understanding when they analyze the Ordinance. He asked that there be a joint session the following week on
February 16th for questions and comments of the Council to provide the Planning Commission an opportunity to react or make some changes, if
necessary, to address some of the Council's concerns before they make their final adoption. He reported that the Commission is meeting every week in
January and on Saturday the 24th as well. He advised that the odd week sessions are just worksessions and on regular meeting nights the worksession
begins at 5 p.m.
The Mayor and Council agreed to allocate time during their Committee of the Whole on Monday, February 9th, which begins at 4 p.m. and agreed to
conduct a worksession on Monday, February 16th (1) beginning at 6 p.m.
Chair Smith and the Commission were thanked for their many hours of continued work on the Large Retail and Wholesale Structure Development
Impact Statement and Standards issues. They were reminded about the need to meet the deadline, with interjection that the deadline may be somewhat
ambitious.
PUBLIC HEARING(S)
A. Mariner Village/Thorn Subdivision Water and Sewer Final Assessment Roll.
There was no public testimony.
B. Ordinance 03-52, Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Appropriating Monies from the Alaska Department of Community and Economic
Development, Fisheries Revitalization Aid, in the Amount of $80,914.12, for a Port/Harbor Restroom and Authorizing the City Manager to Execute
the Appropriate Documents. Finance. P/H. City Manager. Fiscal Note: Expenditure Acct. Acct. 415-380 Port/Harbor Restrooms (First Reading
09/22/03, Remanded to the Port/Harbor Commission. (First Reading 10/13/03 POSTPONED TO December 8, 2003, Public Hearing January 12,
2004, Second Reading January 26, 2004.)
There was no public testimony.
C. Resolution 04-01, Of the City Council Authorizing the Dissolution of the Library Trust Account and Transfer the Funds to the Friends of the
Library to Create an Endowment Fund with the Homer Foundation. Finance. Library. Fiscal Note: Transfers $12,300 to the Friends of the Library and
closes out the City's Library trust account.
Cleo Webb, Treasurer of the Friends of the Library, reported that quite a few years ago the Friends gave something like twenty five thousand dollars to
the City to do a study on the Library and twelve thousand dollars were left over. She noted that this money has been in this account and the City has
been investing the money for them. She told the Council that they would now like to set up this foundation, because many donators prefer to donate to
a foundation rather than directly to the Library. She shared the realization that the money that goes into the foundation will grow and will be used later
on when funding is needed for various things at the Library. She advised that this money will go to the Homer Foundation, which is very conservative
with investing, are experienced and informed with regard to investing. She apprized the Council that the Friends of the Library feel that the Homer
Foundation is the best place for this money and that they will put it where it will grow the best. She relayed the Friends of the Library and her personal
recommendation that the Council turn this money over to the Homer Foundation, which will benefit the Library and other organizations in the City.
Ms. Webb shared with the Council her original objections, but that with the Homer Foundation having given the Library fifty thousand dollars she no
longer had any objections.
Nancy Lord, representing the Capital Campaign Committee for the new Library project, testified in favor of this Resolution and from the point of view
of the Capital Campaign Committee some donators prefer to give to an endowment and that when applying for grants one of the question is if the
Library has an endowment. She advised that this question is of less importance with the Library being a City Library rather than a traditional non profit
and that grantors want to ensure that applicants are thinking about the future. She emphasized that it is an advantage to affirm that there is an
endowment fund, therefore, showing that they are responsible and thinking about additional costs in the future. She noted that the earnings will be used
for supplementing the Library programs, equipment and whatever the Friends of the Library will want. She voiced their pleasure that the City
Administration has been agreeable in making this transfer of funds.
Agenda Addition Request: D. Resolution 04-14, Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska Correcting an Error in the Port of Homer Terminal Tariff No.
600 Revision of Resolution 03-154(S).
There was no public testimony.
ORDINANCE(S)
None scheduled.
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
A. City Manager's Report (Updates and follow up; January employee anniversaries - John Bacher PH 16 years, Randy Rosencrans HPD 15 years, Larry
Rutherford PH 14 years, Wes Cannon PH 9 years, Ken Frazier PWD 8 years, Chuck Thorsrud HPD 5 years, Deena Benson Clerk's Office 4 years,
Richard Gibson PWD 4 years, Wayne Stanley HPD 3 years, Mark Kruzik HPD 3 years, Jolee Ellis Library 2 years, and Stacy Luck HPD 2 years; Ice
Rink summary and project review; Memo on National Flood Insurance Program Training; Letter to the Borough Mayor Re: Capital Projects; Letter
from Academy for Educational Development, commendation to Rachel Livingston; Homer Foundation, endowment fund and info on grant program;
South Peninsula Hospital MARS program thanks to Fire Chief Painter and staff; and Press Release regarding Ben Walters Park reopening to the public
for 24 hour use on January 5th.)
B. Bid Report, Game Report.
Comments:
The Hockey Rink needs to be referred to as the Ice Rink, since it will be used for more than Hockey.
The Ice Rink building should be built so that it can be closed sided in the winter, if needed, and open sided in the summer, more pavilion style and open sided for security so that the police can more easily see summer activities. Walls do have to be closed for the Arctic Winter games. There may be a way of having retractable doors.
The Ice Rink proposed to be twenty eight thousand one hundred and twenty five square feet, that since it is not retail or wholesale it may be alright at that size. One opinion was that it is retail and in the Central Business District.
Aesthetics were mentioned.
The Ice Rink sewer, that the City has agreed to pay the cost.
The letter received last month from Fred Meyer, regarding their desire to proceed with their proposed store on the Waddell property, stated that they would build the sewer all the way from the south side of the Sterling Highway, underneath the highway, up Waddell Way, to and including the Ice Rink.
No one wants to duplicate services so it would be good to know what is going to happen with the Fred Meyer project, to see if some things can be jointly done to minimize the cost for everyone such as the utilities, access and shared parking.
A meeting with the Homer Hockey Association is scheduled for Wednesday, January 14th at 4 p.m. in the Conference Room.
The Deep Water Dock Corrosion Control project is proceeding ahead with the money allocated by the Council. The final plans are on the Public Works Director's desk and the project should be accomplished this summer.
Long range fiscal planning needs to stay in the fore front. Revenue issues and demographics. How to facilitate the budget.
A tentative schedule or road map will be on the agenda for the next Committee of the Whole meetings, from the City Manager.
Reactivation of the Economic Development Advisory Commission is incredibly timely.
Animal Shelter needs to come to fruition, more funds are needed. The first objective is to get a solid figure. Public Works Director Meyer is working with the architect, who understands that the City has a very short time frame and that the City does still want to build this spring if at all possible. The site (2) location is fairly settled, the foot print has been identified for the physical characteristics of that site and the way it is platted. A fairly long, one story building. The architect will be in Homer some time soon to meet with the Friends of the Animals and the SOS group to finalize the design to provide plans and cost estimates for the Council.
Overslope Development is key to the Development in the Homer Community. Desire expressed to know what the Port/Harbor Commission thinks about this and what kind of ideas they might have. What should be there? What should not be there? - In keeping with the zoning on the Spit.
Appreciation was expressed to the Library for their response regarding the New Library Location and that the Library still supports the present location, on Hazel Avenue. It was noted that all the Library Data, in terms of where a library should be placed, speaks directly to this location.
Centrally located in town, easily accessible by kids and adults, in a lighted area and near highly sought after retail land.
COMMITTEE REPORT
A. Road Standards Committee, November 25, 2003 Synopsis.
B. Town Center Development Committee, November 13th Notes.
There were no comments.
PENDING BUSINESS
None scheduled.
NEW BUSINESS
A. Memorandum 04-08, from City Manager, Re: Land Bank Reserve Fund.
Recommendation: If it is the intent of the Council to explore this topic further, we would suggest either of the two following options:
OPTION 1: Schedule some time to discuss this in detail at a future Committee of the Whole. This would permit ample time to discuss things like the
advantages and disadvantages of establishing a formal land bank and why the prior draft ordinance was not adopted.
OPTION 2: Direct staff to introduce a new, or revised ordinance within the next two months.
LADD/BECK - MOVED TO RECOMMENDATION OPTION 1.
Council asked to have the former Ordinance, that was not adopted, provided to them so that they could become familiar with it, once again, and then
they can make a decision as to whether or not go forward with that particular Ordinance or a modified one. It was noted that people may be wanting
to donate easements, that could be used for trails.
FENKSE/STARK - MOVED TO AMEND TO INCLUDE OPTION 2. TO HAVE STAFF INTRODUCE A NEW OR REVISED ORDINANCE AT
THE TIME WE HAVE THAT WORKSESSION/COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE AS PROPOSED IN OPTION ONE.
Council stated that they did want a document to work from with the intent of formulating the Ordinance to introduce at a regular meeting. A preference
was expressed to bring back the original Ordinance with modifications that the City Manager deems necessary.
The City Manager is to review the previous Ordinance and the history thereof and to report to the Council at the Committee of the Whole.
VOTE: (primary amendment) YES: NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
There was no further discussion.
VOTE: (main motion as amended) YES: NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
B. Substitute submitted under Agenda Approval. Memorandum 04-09(S), from Public Works Director, Re: East End Road Improvements, Water and
Sewer Main Extensions, Deferred Assessments on Benefitted Properties.
Recommendations: Sewer: The City of Homer works with Kachemak City to collect costs from benefitted Kachemak City properties (estimated to be $151,955.90). The City would invoice Kachemak City upon completion of the project. Payment due within 90 days.
The City of Homer creates a sewer LID containing all benefitted properties within the City limits and contributes 25% of the cost of the sewer project. The remaining 75%. (total cost estimated is $303,911.79; 75% = $227,933.84; would be assessed against each of 11 parcels = $20,721..25). The assessments could be paid off over twenty years, at 2.5% interest.
Water: The City of Homer work with Kachemak City in the future to recoup cost to benefitted Kachemak City property when water service is provide. (total cost estimated is $313,799.31; deferred assessment to each of 15 parcels = $20,919.95)
The City of Homer creates a water LID containing all benefitted properties within the City limits and contributes 25% of the cost of the water project.
The remaining 75%. (total cost estimated is $334,719.27; 75% = $251,039.45 would be assessed against each of 16 parcels = $15,689.97)
The City should support the creation of a water and a sewer LID (25%/75% split) for those properties within the City limits to provide property
owners with long term financing of these costs. If an LID cannot be created, the City will have to place 100% deferred assessments on benefitted
properties, which would be due and payable in full upon request to connect.
As an example, if a sewer LID can be created, the $20,721.25 sewer assessment would result in a $1,330 per year payment over 20 years. If a water
LID can be created, the $15,689.97 water assessment would result in a $1,010 per year payment. These amounts are based on a 2.5 % loan.
If 100% deferred sewer assessments are placed on the properties, it would result in a $27,628.33 assessment. If 100% deferred water assessments are
the placed on properties, it would result in a $20,919.95 assessment.
The City should initiate the circulation of a petition to create the above mentioned LID's. The petition should be accompanied by a letter explaining the
reasons for the LID and the implications of the decisions being made.
FENSKE/LADD - MOVED TO DISCUSS MEMORANDUM 04-09(S).
There was no discussion on the motion.
VOTE: YES: NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
Public Works Director Meyer reviewed the recommendation with the Council.
Discussion points:
Whether or not to use the traditional LID process, a Council initiated LID process or a deferred assessment process. Public Works Director Meyer recommends the LID process.
The advantage of the LID process is that the property owners do not have to pay all at once, payable over twenty years and at a rate of 2.5% interest. This also benefits the City's cash flow.
Deferred assessment means that when the property owner connects they have to pay the whole assessment at the time of connect. The City is also out the money until the property owner connects. This is the most simple method. Finance Director Baugh clarified that this deferred method means a 100% property owner share at the time of connection.
Assessment methodology of equal shares may not be the best method since the benefitted properties are either very large acreage or very small acreage and the land uses are more industrial rather than residential.
Kachemak City has an Intergovernmental Agreement with the City of Homer regarding the Sewer, which sets the cost of the Sewer. Water will not be extended to Kachemak City, at this time.
It is not known how Kachemak City will be assessing their property owners.
The Memo suggests that Kachemak City be billed after project completion, for the sewer, with payment due in ninety days.
Public Works Director Meyer suggested that, at a meeting wherein Council is prepared to make a decision, that Kachemak City Mayor, Philemon Morris, be invited to discuss more fully how he perceives what is planned.
City Manager Wrede relayed that Mayor Morris had indicated that the Kachemak City Assessment Methodology was going to be based on square footage or road frontage to come up with the $151,955.90.
25% is the City share. 75% is the benefitted property owner share.
The project installs the lines to Kachemak Drive. There is an area, as part of the 2002 annexation, past Kachemak Drive, toward the east on the south side of East End Road, that has been mentioning a desire for, at least, the sewer. This may be included in this project as a Change Order or expansion of the sewer line, added as a separate LID, or when the next phase of East End Road is constructed. Council asked that staff give consideration to extending sewer to this area. Concern about serving the properties to the east of Kachemak Drive along East End Road was expressed.
The current project is supposed to be constructed this summer.
City Manager Wrede plans to send a letter to the property owners who will be benefitted by these improvements, providing them the information regarding the LID process and the Deferred Assessment process to ascertain property owner preference.
Kachemak Drive Phase II water and sewer LID were mentioned. Mayor Cushing suggested that the boundaries of Kachemak Drive Phase II includes some of these additional properties. City Clerk note: The Kachemak Drive Phase II LID does not currently exist. The letter will include pros and cons to each process.
Impact fees were mentioned to address those properties/property owners in adjacent properties to the area being discussed, that may want to connect at a later date. It was noted that an Ordinance would have to be adopted to implement any impact fees.
Public Works Director Meyer advised that the line is a ten inch line.
The capacity of this East End Road Sewer line is greater than the normal sewer line and should serve a much larger development.
Mayor Cushing recapped what the Manager and Public Works Director will be doing:
Some correspondence with land owners.
Look in the direction of an LID as opposed to the Deferred Assessment approach.
Include as many properties as possible particularly the parcels in the City east of the proposed line.
Public Works Director Meyer responded to inquiry of the Council that the proposed sewer line is sized adequately to extend a long way out East End
Road, that it sufficiently serves the rest of Kachemak City that does not have sewer, and a significant area out beyond that. He further responded that
the Sewer Treatment Plant is operating at half capacity, recognizing that there will be other areas, besides the East End Road area, that will be
developing. He reported that there are basically four thousand people within the service area and that could be doubled and still have Treatment capacity.
There was a little more discussion along these same lines.
C. Consent Agenda Item O. Memorandum 04-02, from Mayor Cushing, Re: Reappointment of Anne Marie Holen to the Economic Development
District as Homer's. Recommend confirmation.
STARK/FENSKE - MOVED TO APPROVE THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE MEMORANDUM.
There was a brief discussion on whether or not the representative should be a Councilmember.
Council made the following comments regarding Administrative Assistant, Anne Marie Holen:
She, as City Staff, will provide a continuity of task, holistic approach and record keeping.
She is an asset in her advisory capacity to the Economic Development District, will be to the Economic Development Commission, is to the Planning Commission, Town Center Committee and all of those who are gathering statistics and information
She has the City's technology at her disposal to disperse the above information.
Economic development is part of her job description and she is in the City Manager's Office, thereby, keeping the Manager informed.
It is her job to keep her pulse on the economic development issues for the City.
Council asked to be copied with memoranda or reports regarding the status of various issues, to keep the Council up to speed.
VOTE: YES: LADD, NOVAK. BECK, FENSKE.
NO: STARK.
Motion carried.
City Attorney Tans left at 9 p.m.
Mayor Cushing called for a recess at 9:02 p.m., reconvening the meeting at 9:15.5 p.m.
RESOLUTIONS
Mayor Cushing stated that he owns property in this area and feels more comfortable not participating. He therefore, excused himself from the table at
9:16 p.m. and handed the gavel to Mayor Pro Tempore Fenske.
A. Resolution 03-137(S), Of the City Council of the City of Homer, Alaska, Authorizing the Formation of the Ocean Drive Loop Sewer Assessment
District and Authorizing the City Manager to Proceed with the Preparation and Construction of the Ocean Drive Loop Sewer Project City Clerk. Fiscal
Note: Total estimated project cost: $1,005,750.00. Property owner assessments at 75%: $754,312.99. The City's share will be funded from the Homer
Accelerated Water and Sewer Program. Total assessment per parcel is $9,796.27. Postponed on 11/24-12/01/03 for response to Council's questions.
Memorandum 04-10, from Public Works to City Manager in response to Council.
MAIN MOTION IS ON THE FLOOR AS POSTPONED: STARK/YOURKOWSKI - MOVED TO APPROVE BY READING OF TITLE.
There was a brief clarification regarding how to amend in Memorandum 04-10.
LADD/BECK - MOVED TO AMEND RESOLUTION 03-137(S) TO AMEND THE BOUNDARIES AS STATED ON PAGE 345, MAP. (Map
attached to Memorandum 04-10)
The cost assessment will increase from $9,796.27 to $11,126.23 if this boundary change is approved.
Council comments:
Lift stations would increase the assessments and easements are more economical.
Westerly lots could be added in at a later date.
Reluctance of property owners to grant easements.
There are other property owners who do not want to be included, who objected. It appears that this LID is being chopped up in order to accommodate.
May be better to wait until the Water and Wastewater Master Plan is completed.
Concern if this is the best thing to do, to adust the LID.
There is no way that the Water and Wastewater Master Plan can do a better job then the Public Works Director.
Sometimes boundaries just need to be adjusted to get projects done and for the benefit of the neighborhood. Water and sewer makes the neighborhood healthier and more liveable for everyone.
The intent is to do the best job and the hope is that in the long run everyone will be happy.
There should be water and sewer wherever anyone is living.
There are some properties along the slough wherein the owners have specifically said to not bring in water and sewer, because the next owner might put in an apartment house or multi family unit.
Public Works Director Meyer responded to Council inquiry:
Regarding the sewer line going through property - lift stations are very expensive to build, backup power is required, these can be a three hundred to four hundred thousand dollar item. The long term operation and maintenance needs to considered.
The lift station is one option that the engineers will be looking at.
Easements are a cheaper way initially and long term for the operators of the system.
Lots in the Ocean Drive Loop Area are not better served off of Lake Street, they are better served in this LID.
The easements do not now exist. These lots were platted without much consideration of water and sewer. The City could condemn or by eminent domain acquire the easements or could go for the lift station and introduce the increased assessments to the property owners. Each lot on the south would have to put in their own lift station, if the easement is not granted, to get the sewer up to the sewer line in the roadway.
The costs are far cheaper when the main is located down hill rather than uphill from the service.
Some of the alignments through properties may be eliminated once the survey and soils information is completed.
There are a lot of unknowns at this stage of the game.
VOTE:(primary amendment) YES: BECK, FENSKE, STARK, NOVAK.
NO: LADD.
Motion carried.
Concerns regarding the easement issues were reiterated, with a preference expressed for the line to be in the roadway. It was re noted that lift stations
are expensive. There will always be people for and against districts.
Public Works Director Meyer was commended for the recommended revisions, that the price is fair, and for addressing the Council's concerns.
VOTE:(main amended motion) YES: FENSKE, STARK, NOVAK.
NO: LADD, BECK.
Motion failed.
Mayor Cushing returned to the table at 9:43 p.m.
Clerk's Note: Councilmember Ladd issued notice of Reconsideration on Tuesday, January 13, 2004. Will be on the January 26th agenda.
B Resolution 04-01, Of the City Council Authorizing the Dissolution of the Library Trust Account and Transfer the Funds to the Friends of the
Library to Create an Endowment Fund with the Homer Foundation. Finance. Library. Fiscal Note: Transfers $12,300 to the Friends of the Library and
closes out the City's Library trust account.
Memorandum 04-07, from Finance Director as backup.
BECK/NOVAK - MOVED FOR THE ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION NUMBER 04-01 BY READING OF TITLE.
There were some brief favorable comments. These are dollars that are being put back to where they belong.
City Manager Wrede confirmed that this funding will be used for the original intent and there will be some signed papers to verify this on both sides.
The principle cannot be spent only the earnings may be spent for the benefit of the library. The principle is to start an endowment.
Library Advisory Boardmember Lord clarified that donations made to the endowment will be managed the same, with only the earnings spent and that
there will be one fund. There will be no charge for managing this account.
Cleo Webb advised that the fifty thousand from the Homer Foundation was granted for the capital project and is in the City accounts.
VOTE: YES: NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
C. Resolution 04-11, OF the Homer City Council Authorizing the Formation of the Kachemak Drive Phase One Sewer Assessment District at 75%
Property Owner Share of Assessments and Authorizing the City Manager to Proceed with the Preparation and Construction of the Kachemak Drive
Phase One Sewer Project. City Clerk. Fiscal Note: Estimated project cost is $644,800.00, total property owner assessments at 75%, $483,600.00
minus exemptions equals $384,400.00. Equal assessments per parcel are $12,400.00 Recommend adoption.
FENSKE/LADD - MOVED FOR THE ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION 04-11 BY READING OF TITLE.
It was noted that this is an LID that has had considerable massaging.
VOTE: YES: NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
D. Resolution 04-12, Of the Homer City Council Reactivating the Homer Economic Development Commission. Ladd. Fiscal Note: Clerk's Staff
attendance to record meeting and write the minutes, put together agenda and packet. Other staff as assigned.
Memorandum 04-11, from Councilmember Ladd.
LADD/FENSKE - MOVED FOR THE ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION 04-12 BY READING OF TITLE.
Councilmember Ladd read the Commission's mission:
Is committed to improving economic environment, to enhancing business and employment opportunities and to improving the quality of life.
Mr. Ladd voiced his opinion that it is timely to reinstate this group to assist with that mission.
The Overall Economic Development Plan (OEDP) was mentioned. It was noted that this was initiated in 1992 and last updated in 1999. The OEDP process is a good process. One quote from the OEDP: Non economic values are often times very important to pursue. It is equally important to balance those values with fundamental economic needs of the community, which result in a positive economic development strategy.
The OEDP review process is a good process. There were a lot of good recommendations made in the plan:
1% for the Arts for City Public Buildings - since adopted by Ordinance.
Arctic Winter Games
Homer Hockey Association, covered ice rink
Public Skateboard park - now exists
Trails Network
Walkway along the Spit
Capital funding for the local UA campus
There is a need to look back at what has been done and update the Plan.
The value system of the community needs to be balanced with firm economic information to make a total decision. Much has happened in the
community since 1999: Logging has come and gone, decreased in state revenue sharing, port facility has improved. and overall changing demographics
with the retirement community.
LADD/BECK - MOVED TO AMEND THE LAST BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, STRIKE THE LAST SEVERAL LINES WHERE IT SAYS
"MAKE PRIORITIZED RECOMMENDATIONS BASED UPON ECONOMIC DATA" AND INSERT SO THAT IT WOULD READ: BE IT
FURTHER RESOLVED, UPDATE THE OVERALL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN BY G THAT THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
ADVISORY COMMISSION WILL REVIEW THE OVERALL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN AS ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL
VIA RESOLUTION 99-36 ON JUNE 1, 1999, AND IN LIGHT OF CURRENT ECONOMIC CONDITIONS WITHIN THE STATE AND CITY
GATHERING, ORGANIZING AND MAKING AVAILABLE INFORMATION, RESOURCES AND ECONOMIC DATA THAT SUPPORT
BUSINESS AND ECONOMIC GROWTH AND SUBMIT THE UPDATED PLAN TO THE CITY COUNCIL FOR ADOPTION.
Original clause: BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Economic Development Advisory Commission will review the Overall Economic
Development Plan as adopted by the City Council via Resolution 99-36 on June 1, 1999, and in light of current economic conditions within the State
and City, make prioritized recommendations based upon economic data and information to guide, enhance, and support timely economic development,
both public and private.
Comments:
This amendment would provide the Economic Development Commission a direction, right from the very beginning, to work on this OEDP and is basically wording, which is taken from what is on the books at this time.
The OEDP needs to be updated and brought current with the activities in the community and with development strategies for how to develop the community. This will assist the Council.
This is very timely, it is a whole different economic time.
The Planning Commission has enough to do.
Example: What the economic and side benefits of the Ice Rink might be to the community.
The Economic Development Commission (EDC) is accountable to the Council.
The EDC needs staff to appropriately conduct their duties and responsibilities. This was a major complaint, according to Councilmember Fenske, when he was on the EDC. He also relayed comments regarding resources and informational resources, for, to and by the EDC.
The actual job of the EDC is not that much different than that of the Council's. The local industries are fairly well represented at the Council table. Council does a pretty good job of addressing the local interests such as with the Town Center, Hockey Association, other committees, the Commissions and etcetera.
The City has an economic development person, Anne Marie, which brings this close to the City Manager's Office where it ought to be. Sheri Hobbs could also do economic development part time.
Studies have shown that with volunteers there is a wider base of support and the end result is a better product is product. The Council and current Commissions cannot do it all. The work needs to be spread out.
Those who were involved in developing the OEDP were a wide diversified group. This will assist the Council to stretch their own thinking. Council
needs to do as much as they can to make this all work in the community.
Mayor Cushing advised that when the EDC was active there was a lot of input and effort by all of the other Commissions on the OEDP. He informed
the Council that as the OEDP progressed it required less and less time to keep it updated. He suggested that if the Council wants to update the plan
they could involve all of the existing standing Commissions and Anne Marie Holen.
There was comment to also include the active Committees.
FENSKE/ CALL FOR THE QUESTION.
Motion dies for lack of a second.
Deliberations continued.
The work of the EDC would assist the Council in things such as the next Resolution regarding the Borough Comprehensive Plan.
VOTE:(primary amendment) YES: LADD, STARK, BECK.
NO: NOVAK, FENSKE.
Motion failed.
There was no further discussion.
VOTE: (main motion) YES: STARK, BECK, LADD.
NO: NOVAK, FENSKE.
Motion failed.
The OEDP (Overall Economic Development Plan) will be reviewed by the Commissions and applicable Committees with recommendations to the City
Council.
F. Resolution 04-13, Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska Providing Input to the Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly Regarding the Borough
Comprehensive Plan. Ladd.
LADD/STARK - MOVED FOR THE ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION 04-13 BY READING OF TITLE.
This is a suggestion of what might be considered. The Council expressed a desire to have more time for input. The Borough is to have a draft plan
done in September 2004. Councilmember Ladd was thanked for his work on this and for bringing it forward. It is better to provide input into the draft
plan process rather than after the draft plan has been issued.
NOVAK/FENSKE - MOVED TO POSTPONE TO THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING. (January 26, 2004)
There was no further discussion.
VOTE:(postponement) YES: NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
Mayor Cushing suggested that there may be some co sponsors.
Agenda Addition Request: G. Resolution 04-14, Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska Correcting an Error in the Port of Homer Terminal Tariff No.
600 Revision of Resolution 03-154(S). City Manager/City Clerk.
Clerk's Note: The Port/Harbor Director and Finance Director found a transposition of numbers in the Monthly Rate for non metered power, 220 volt
electricity. The correct rate is $286.50 and what Council adopted was $268.50.
FENSKE/LADD - MOVED FOR THE ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION 03-14 BY READING OF TITLE.
It was noted that this is a numerical change in the cost of electrical service.
VOTE: YES: NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
COMMENTS OF THE AUDIENCE
Audience comments upon any matter
Kelly Cornick voiced appreciation to the Council for all of the work that they do and that she could not sit there and do all of the work that they do.
She shared her love for Homer and that she does not want it to grow to fast or too slow and that it has a lot of potential. She voiced concern regarding
the situation with the young people here in Homer, that Homer's kids are in big trouble. She relayed that the parents, police and people at McDonald's
don't know what to do. She reported having spoken with about one hundred and fifty kids and that they don't know what to do either, adding that they
know what they want. She noted that these are the so called "bad" kids, the non conformists as the Wolf Pack likes to call themselves and those who
fight with the Wolf Pack. She commented on the havoc that these kids have reeked here in Homer. She advised that she sort of volunteered herself to
go down to McDonald's where a lot of the trouble was and try to use her skills as a teen advocate to try to defuse some of the trouble. Ms. Cornick
advised that she is sort of a kid magnet and that kids seem to feel that they can tell her anything and that she asked them why they were acting this way.
She informed the Council that these kids feel ignored by the community, that there is nothing for them to do except to go to school, half of which are
bored with school. She suggested to the children that they go to school to work and work is not always exciting and that play is different. She noted
that the kids want something to do for their idea of contributing to the community. She shared her personal history and aspirations. She pointed out
that the kids do not know how to get from point A to point B and that the "norm" is just not these kids' "norm". She reported asking the kids if non
conformity always means vandalism, trashing someone's car, or breaking into something, with a response from the kids being that they are bored. She
shared her comments to the kids about how rough it is outside, meaning the lower forty eight states, and that she asked them what they would put in
Homer for the future kids, and that these kids do not know. She emphasized that lots of kids act out and just need a little guidance and little expression
or place to go rather than Safeway or McDonald's. She voiced concern that these kids don't know what to create for the community. She acknowledge
budget cuts, however, there is an importance to focus on these kids, ages twelve to fifteen. She informed the Council that there are about fifty adults
between the ages of eighteen and twenty-five who have gotten hold of the kids, the non conformists and circle of trouble kids. She stated that a lot of
these adults are not really the pillar of society here, those who keep from getting arrested by the skin of their teeth, those who do not have jobs in the
winter and et cetera. She suggested that these adults provide the kids, who are artists and politicians, with a place to go and they get high. She voiced
concern that these kids are acquiring a taste for alcohol and whatever. She noted that the Teen Center closing was the last straw. She relayed that she
shared with the kids that she wants to take care of them, because they are her future and that those kids will need to take care of her some day. She
noted that Homer is a lot safer than Brooklyn and that she is happy here and likes it here. She voiced her opinion that if these kids are not shown that
they are being considered, Homer is going to be in big trouble. She emphasized that these kids are organized with a leader and assistant leader. She
advised the Council that these kids understand politics, numbers, and what power and fear can do in an community of this size. She commented that she
does have some ideas, some that she has shared and that no one has taken her too serious. She stated that she is good at what she does, that she does
know names of kids, where they live and what they are in to.
Councilmember Fenske voiced appreciation for Ms Cornick's comments and added some comments about what is available for the children.
She responded that these kids need a place to go that is away from school, church and family, a place where they are safe and can communicate, and
separate from everything that has been organized. She suggested that she may be able to bring a few of these kids to a Council meeting so that they can
talk to the Council.
COMMENTS OF THE CITY ATTORNEY
City Attorney Tans left at 9 p.m. to fly back to Anchorage.
COMMENTS OF THE CITY CLERK
City Clerk Calhoun had no comment.
COMMENTS OF THE CITY MANAGER
City Manager Wrede had no comment.
COMMENTS OF THE MAYOR
Mayor Cushing had no comment.
COMMENTS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
Councilmember Stark thanked the administration for taking action over some items that came up last month regarding the signs about smoking in
relation to City buildings and the purchase, installation and signage for the automatic external defibrillator. He stated that he thinks it is good when
something needs to be done, the administration is asked to do it and they do it. He acknowledged that both of those items could save a life.
Councilmember Novak stated that he just wanted to say that Economic Development is a thread through out everything being done in this community
and even on this Council, of course. He continued, Commissions, Council decisions and the future here is integral to economic development, it is not a
lost subject and there will be seen more focus on it in the future.
Mayor Cushing asked if Councilmember Novak was stated that the Council is the Economic Development Commission.
Councilmember Ladd suggested that the Council start working on this long term fiscal plan and that he would like to see some kind of an outline
brought to them at the next Committee of the Whole with some bench marks and some goal, a frame work. He stated that this would allow the Council
to looking, planning and getting on with that plan. He voiced concern that projects slide, such as the Steep Slope Issue, for two or three years. He
noted that the Council is still waiting for mapping and who knows what with regard to the Steep Slope. He pointed out that the Council needs to get
working on this before the time runs out and should be at the time of the items for Council's concern.
Councilmember Fenske stated that he found Mr. Novak's comments about economic development interesting. He reminisced about when Mr.
Drathman was hired, that one of the issues talked about then was to get someone hired for economic development and Anne Marie Holen kind of
assumed that spot. He voiced his hope that, as Council reinvents the wheel, Council takes full advantage of what exists and not get too impatient. He
pointed out that Council does not have the world at their disposal, it may be their oyster and are limited on oyster shuckers.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Council the meeting was adjourned at 10:56 p.m. The next Regular Meeting is scheduled for
Monday, January 26, 2004 at 7 p.m. The next Committee of the Whole meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 26, 2004 at 4 p.m. The meetings are
scheduled to be held in the Homer City Hall Council Chambers located at 491 E. Pioneer Avenue, Homer, Alaska.
_____________________________________
MARY L. CALHOUN, CMC, CITY CLERK
Approved: _______________
clerk@ci.homer.ak.us, 235-3130, home number 235-2843.
1. Later noted that February 16th is a Federal Holiday, therefore this session may be rescheduled to Tuesday, February 17th.
2. Current location adjacent to the Public Works facility.