Session 09-01 a Regular Meeting of the Homer City Council was called to order on January 12, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Pro Tempore Dennis Novak at the Homer City Hall Cowles Council Chambers located at 491 E. Pioneer Avenue, Homer, Alaska, and opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.

 

PRESENT:             COUNCILMEMBERS:         HOWARD, LEWIS, NOVAK, ROBERTS,                                                                  WYTHE, ZAK

 

                               STAFF:                                 CITY MANAGER WREDE

                                                                            CITY CLERK JOHNSON

                                                                            CITY PLANNER ABBOUD

                                                                            FINANCE DIRECTOR HARVILLE

                                                                            PORT & HARBOR DIRECTOR HAWKINS

                                                                            PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR MEYER

 

Mayor Hornaday has requested excusal.

 

Department Heads may be called upon from time to time to participate via teleconference.

 

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 the following changes:

ORDINANCES - Ordinance 09-01 backup; and RESOLUTIONS - Resolution 09-09(S) Substitute.

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion to move New Business Item A – Memorandum 09-04 to the final business item after Resolutions.

 

ROBERTS/LEWIS – SO MOVED.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

LEWIS/WYTHE – MOVED TO APPROVE THE AGENDA AS AMENDED.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

PUBLIC COMMENTS UPON MATTERS ALREADY ON THE AGENDA

 

Leonard Wells, city resident, asked what it costs the City for vehicle inspections above the $7,800 grant outlined in Ordinance 08-62. He questioned why there is an Executive Session (Memorandum 09-04) rather than a public meeting; he believes the City Manager should be discussed in public.

 

Kevin Hogan, city resident, asked why Resolution 09-08 was not brought before the Port and Harbor Advisory Commission. There was a resolution authorizing an RFP (Request for Proposal) for a parking study of the Spit, although nothing happened with it. It should be on the fast track. He questioned Town Center Infrastructure and Pratt Museum on the list. A South Bay ferry service would make jobs. Mr. Hogan commented on Memorandum 09-04, stating City Manager Wrede is a good guy and the best manager we have had in a long time.

 

Heather Beggs, city resident and Pratt Museum Director, favors Resolution 09-10. She invited Council and community members to attend the Pratt’s annual meeting February 3rd at 7:00 p.m.

 

Lloyd Moore, city resident and owner of Moore & Moore Services, commented on Resolution 09-09. He deals with the Borough a lot, and knows they can only move recycle containers once a week, as the facility can only deal with it once a week. He proposed that his business put the recycling containers on the Spit, without handling glass. Mr. Moore started residential garbage pickup last year and the community came behind him. He would like to sit down with the City Manager and Brian at the Port to see if there is interest.

 

Bob Burns, Homer resident, is in favor of Ordinance 09-01. In the long run it will reduce and discourage the use of plastic bags and encourage recyclable bags. The most desirable outcome is for the community to want it. He recommends a public relations or education dissemination program over the next six months to get the community behind the ideas and allow the community to acquire bags. People may be put off if it is forced upon them.

 

Jane Regan, city resident, spoke in favor of Ordinance 09-01. She has memories of thousands of plastic bags in trees after a wind storm in the southern states. She described it as icky. Safeway and others sell recyclable bags. Plastic gets into the food chain and clogs intestines of marine mammals. The garbage collection in the Northern Pacific ocean outnumbers zooplankton 6-1. It is one small step to protect the environment.

 

Oceana Wills, city resident and Homer Alaska Youth for Environmental Action, commented on Ordinance 09-01. Many places in Alaska have banned plastic bags. They are banned entirely in Ireland. There are all sorts of opportunities and ways not to use plastic bags.

 

Alan Parks, Homer resident, favors Ordinance 09-01 to bring into community discussion. There are a lot of benefits if a fee helps fund the sustainability fund. It is a good process and revenue stream. He favors Resolutions 09-03, 09-07 and 09-09. He encouraged the City to work with Lloyd Moore for recycling. He commended Council for working on these issues.

 

 

RECONSIDERATION

 

None.

 

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.)

 

A.        Homer City Council unapproved meeting minutes of November 24, 2008 and December           8, 2008 Regular Meetings and November 24, 2008 and December 1, 2008 Special       Meetings. City Clerk.                                                                                       

 

B.         Memorandum 09-01, from Clerk, Re: Liquor License Renewal for Alice’s Champagne            Palace, Fat Olives, Kachemak Bowl and Mermaid Café.                           

 

C.        Memorandum 09-02, from Mayor Pro Tempore, Re: Appointment of James C.          Hornaday as Homer’s Alternate Representative on the Cook Inlet Regional Citizen’s    Advisory Council (CIRCAC).

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion for the approval of the recommendations of the consent agenda as read.                                                                       

 

ROBERTS/LEWIS – SO MOVED.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

VISITORS

 

A.                 Samantha Jacobsen & Audrey Rosencrans – Perils of Plastic Bags in Our Community

 

Fourth graders Samantha Jacobsen and Audrey Rosencrans spoke on the harmful effects of plastic bags for marine life, birds and the environment.

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS/PRESENTATIONS/BOROUGH    REPORT/COMMISSION REPORTS

 

Bill Smith, Kenai Peninsula Borough Assemblyman, presented prescription discount cards to be used at a participating retail pharmacy for an average savings of 20% on prescription medicine.

 

Kevin Hogan, Economic Development Advisory Commission, provided Council an update on the commission’s activities. They are viewing the Comprehensive Plan and Lease Policy and will begin working on overall economic development strategy. The commission is looking forward to the Vista intern position to help.   

 

PUBLIC HEARING(S)

 

A.        Ordinance 08-62, An Ordinance of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Accepting and            Appropriating an Alaska Department of Transportation (ADOT) Reimbursement of up     to $7,168 for Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Inspections and Authorizing the City      Manager to Execute the Appropriate Documents. City Manager/Police Chief.             Introduction December 8, 2008, Public Hearing and Second Reading January 12, 2009.

                                                                                                                                   

Lloyd Moore, city resident and owner of Moore and Moore Services, appreciates the Homer Police Department completing the commercial vehicle inspections. It allows him to save money as the police inspect his trucks, many times when they are down. Each truck is inspected once a year; he asked for twice yearly inspections, but the HPD does not have the time or money. It saves him from running the trucks to the Sterling weigh station. They find things he misses. It is good for Moore and Moore and the community.

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion for the adoption of Ordinance 08-62 by reading of title only for second and final reading.

 

ROBERTS/LEWIS - SO MOVED.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

ORDINANCE(S)

 

A.        Ordinance 09-01, An Ordinance of the Homer City Council, Enacting Homer City Code          Chapter 5.42 Establishing a Green fee for Disposable Shopping Bags, and Requiring   Sellers in the City to Collect the Green Fee and Remit it to the City. Lewis. Introduction             January 12, 2009, Public Hearing and Second Reading January 26, 2009.           

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion for the adoption of Ordinance 09-01 for introduction and first reading by reading of title only.

 

LEWIS/ROBERTS - SO MOVED.

 

Councilmember Zak pointed out that bait is sold in plastic bags; many of the bags fly out of boats. This is a start and we may come up with additional ways to reduce plastic.

 

Councilmember Wythe expressed the need to first initiate serious public education; Council can do a lot of good by developing goodwill. A means to make the education available for visitors is needed. The whole pictures needs to be addressed. Although she recognizes it is desirable to decrease the use of plastic bags, she does not believe it’s necessary. It is not necessary to regulate everything; let people decide if they are going to or not.

 

Councilmember Howard agrees with the goal, yet is concerned it is somewhat of a tax and the burden put on the merchants collecting it. She supports a positive approach with a public relations program.  

 

Councilmember Roberts favors the ordinance, yet understands the reluctance.

 

Councilmember Lewis explained his idea for the green tax came from the New York Times when Mayor Bloomburg was going to introduce a fee on plastic bags. Ireland imposed a 33 cent fee and reduced 94% of the bags. The time is here. Since he started thinking about this he has seen hundreds of bags go out. Although the green tax may not be the greatest idea, there are no other ones on the horizon. If someone can come up with a better idea he is all for it. It is a means to fund the sustainable plan.

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak commented the ordinance is on the table for discussion and several things can happen. The maker can modify it or postpone the second reading for a longer period of time. Council received a laydown with reference to Seattle’s green fee. He sympathizes with the checker at the checkstand who would need to explain the fee to customers.

 

City Attorney Klinkner pointed out on Page 124, Section 3 the effective date was left blank. It will need to be taken up at the next meeting.

 

VOTE: YES. ROBERTS, WYTHE, ZAK, HOWARD, NOVAK, LEWIS

 

Motion carried.

 

B.         Ordinance 09-02, An Ordinance Amending HCC 9.16.010 and HCC 9.16.100 to Provide     for the Levy of a Sales Tax on Sales of Nonprepared Food Items in the City of Homer at            a Rate of 3.0% During the Period from September 1st through May 31st, and Authorizing          the City to Submit the Question of Levying Such Sales Tax to the Qualified Voters of the City at the October 6, 2009 Regular City Election. Novak/Roberts. Introduction January           12, 2009, Public Hearing and Second Reading January 26, 2009.              

 

ROBERTS/LEWIS – MOVED FOR THE INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCE 09-02 BY READING OF TITLE.

 

Councilmember Wythe expressed her disdain of the ordinance, only one meeting later after Council followed the will of the voters.

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak explained the zero sales tax should maintain itself from now until the end of May and October 1st through December to see how it affects business in Homer. It is a tough year financially, and although it is reasonable to exempt sales tax for a year, it is probably not reasonable budget wise. The next budget cycle will tell. The ordinance seeks to save funds for a special election; voters would decide at the next regular election. It is a compromise between what everyone wants and what is needed for next year.

 

Councilmember Roberts prefers to look at the long term effects with the sales tax exemption, and educate the voters. From June to August of 2009 the City will collect 4.5% sales tax on nonprepared food items.

 

Councilmember Zak is happy to see the sales tax proposal back as quickly as it is; he was sad when the Borough voted for the exemption. It will be a big impact to the City and he would favor raising the rate back to where it was. Sales tax is a good way to share the costs of operating the City.

 

VOTE: YES. LEWIS, ROBERTS, ZAK, HOWARD, NOVAK

VOTE: NO. WYTHE

 

Motion carried.

 

C.        Ordinance 09-03, An Ordinance of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Accepting and            Appropriating an Increase to the FY 2007 Legislative Water Treatment Plant Grant No.          40907 (Approved in FY 2008) in the Amount of $1,680,000, Providing for the Local             Match, and Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the Appropriate Documents. City   Manager/Finance. Introduction January 12, 2009, Public Hearing and Second Reading             January 26, 2009.

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion for the adoption of Ordinance 09-03 for introduction and first reading by reading of title only.                                                                  

 

ROBERTS/HOWARD – SO MOVED.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

D.        Ordinance 09-04, An Ordinance Amending Homer City Code 9.04.046 to Exempt the            Primary Residence Owned by a Senior Citizen, a Senior Citizen’s Widow Over the Age     of Sixty, or a Disabled Veteran from Taxation in the Same Manner and Amount       Prescribed in the Kenai Peninsula Borough Code. Novak. Introduction January 12,             2009, Public Hearing and Second Reading January 26, 2009.              

 

ROBERTS/LEWIS – MOVED FOR INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCE 09-04.

 

Councilmember Wythe commented the property tax exemption is in the best interest of senior citizens, although it is not in the interest of the other residents of the City.

 

Councilmember Howard would qualify for the exemption if it would pass, but she cannot support it. Homer’s statistics are moving more rapidly into the 65 age group and older. She asked who was going to pay the bills. It is already on the backs of those struggling right now. She does not see where we are going to replace the $92,000 in revenue costs. All young folks will run for the hills if we keep specifically accommodating the seniors.

 

Councilmember Zak added people may move outside the City. He supports the property tax exemption and encouraged looking at it from a long range perspective. As the age of local residents progress, it is a good opportunity to keep them in town.

 

Councilmember Lewis expressed support for seniors on a fixed income. With increased property values they could be priced out of their homes. Income should dictate the exemption, helping those that need it.

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak hears of people struggling and thinks equalizing the exemption to the same level as the Borough is reasonable and responsible for seniors.

 

VOTE: YES. NOVAK, LEWIS, ROBERTS, ZAK, HOWARD

VOTE: NO. WYTHE

 

Motion carried.

 

CITY MANAGER’S REPORT

 

A.        City Manager’s Report 

 

City Manager Wrede reported the cell phone service contract will be on the next Council agenda. The review committee has more research. The Finance Department received a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the FY 2007 Annual Financial Report. This Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting. Mr. Wrede attended the new Kenai Municipal Conference, modeled after the Kenai Caucus. The intent is to educate members of the common issues on the Kenai Peninsula Borough. He has agreed to serve on the Bylaws Committee. Council will decide if there is interest in the City participating. Dues are about $500 and an elected official must serve on the conference. The process to recruit a Vista volunteer is under way. The cabin previously thought of as housing for the intern is not habitable. The City will have to provide $300 per month as a stipend; $6,900 is needed to provide housing and office equipment. Discussion ensued on street lights on Greatland Street, whether it was the City’s or the developer’s responsibility. Save-U-More is a dark parking lot with small lights on the building. The CUP did not prohibit lights in the parking lot; the CUP required criteria in the Community Design Manual. Increased lighting may be a shared cost. Council commented on calls from folks on the water/sewer meter readings. End of year reports indicate sales tax revenue is down $500,000, with no news of the economy getting better.

B.         Bid Report   

                                                                                                           

C.        Games Report                                                                                                 

           

D.        Question of the Week  

                                                                                   

E.         Records Inventory Report

                                                                                               

COMMITTEE REPORT

           

A.        Public Arts Committee

 

B.         Transportation Advisory Committee

 

C.        Permanent Fund Committee

 

D.        Lease Committee

 

PENDING BUSINESS

 

None.

 

NEW BUSINESS

 

A.        Memorandum 09-04, From City Clerk, Re: Request for Executive Session Pursuant to            AS 44.62.310(C)(2), Matters, Subjects that Tend to Prejudice the Reputation and Character of any Person, Provided the Person may Request a Public Discussion. (City Manager Wrede Annual Performance Evaluation/Employment Contract.)           

 

At agenda approval moved to follow Resolutions.

 

RESOLUTIONS

 

A.        Resolution 08-116, A Resolution of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Expressing its             Support for Traffic Control and Intersection Improvements at the Intersection of Homer                  Spit Road, Kachemak Drive, and the Proposed Lighthouse Village Drive. Zak.

                                                                                                                                   

Motion on the floor from November 24th meeting: MOTION FOR THE ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION 08-116 BY READING OF TITLE ONLY.

 

Councilmember Zak pointed out the requirements of the permit from the Planning Commission included a Traffic Impact Analysis report. If required by the report, a traffic light may be needed at the intersection. In order to move forward with DOT, the applicants need the resolution.

 

Councilmember Roberts commented this intersection did not come up on the Capital Improvement Plan last year. Councilmember Zak responded that the likelihood of a traffic signal at the intersection is remote. The applicant needs the resolution only to discuss the permit further with the State.

 

NOVAK/ROBERTS – MOVED TO DELETE THE LAST BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: “BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT THE HOMER CITY COUNCIL REQUESTS THAT DOT/PF MAKE THIS INTERSECTION A PRIORITY AND WORK WITH THE APPLICANT TO INSURE THAT THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT AND THE NECESSARY PUBLIC SAFETY AND TRAFFIC IMPROVEMENTS CAN PROCEED EXPEDITIOUSLY AND SIMULTANEOUSLY.”

 

Amendment to the resolution will meet the needs of the development. Council does not want to imply it is a priority intersection.

 

VOTE: (amendment) YES. HOWARD, NOVAK, LEWIS, ROBERTS, WYTHE, ZAK

 

Motion carried.

 

HOWARD/WYTHE – MOVED TO AMEND THAT THE PASSED AND ADOPTED DATE REFLECT TODAY’S DATE.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: (amendment) YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion to adopt Resolution 08-116 as amended.

 

ZAK/WYTHE – SO MOVED.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

B.         Resolution 09-01, A Resolution of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Confirming the             City Manager's Appointment of Mark Robl as Acting City Manager for the Calendar     Year 2009. City Manager.       

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion for the adoption of Resolution 09-01 by reading of title only.                                                                

 

LEWIS/HOWARD – SO MOVED.

 

There was no discussion.

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

C.        Resolution 09-02, A Resolution of the Homer City Council Confirming the       Appointments   of Regina Harville as Treasurer and Laurie Moore as Deputy Treasurer for    Calendar Year 2009. City Manager.    

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion for the adoption of Resolution 09-02 by reading of title only.

 

LEWIS/HOWARD – SO MOVED.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

D.        Resolution 09-03, A Resolution Of The City Council Of Homer, Alaska, Endorsing the           Climate Communities Climate Action Blueprint for the New President and 111th             Congress. Roberts.                                                                                          

 

ROBERTS/HOWARD - MOVED FOR THE ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION 09-03.

 

Homer is a member of ICLEI (International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives), and it is important to bring this to the 111th Congress. Homer is one of more than 350 cities in the United States to join ICLEI.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

E.         Resolution 09-04, A Resolution of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Amending the Community Design Manual. City Manager/Planning.                        

 

            Memorandum 09-05 from City Planner as backup.                                          

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion for the adoption of Resolution 09-04 by reading of title only.

 

HOWARD/ROBERTS – SO MOVED.

 

LEWIS - MOVED TO AMEND TO ALLOW FOR THE SALES OF TWO DAYS PER WEEK AS WHAT THE FARMERS MARKET NOW ALLOWS.

 

Motion died as it was determined the statement is not applicable as the section does not pertain to the Farmers Market.

 

LEWIS/ROBERTS - MOVED TO DELETE THE FARMERS MARKET FROM THE PUBLIC REVIEW DRAFT ITEM 7B COMMUNITY DESIGN MANUAL.

 

It was noted all items are “b” instead of “a,b,c”.

 

VOTE: (amendment) YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

More changes to the Community Design Manual will be forthcoming. This revision is to include revisions for the Scenic Gateway Overlay District.

 

VOTE: (main motion as amended) YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

F.         Resolution 09-05, A Resolution of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Awarding the   Contract for the Homer Airport Terminal Tile Installation Project to the Firm of Steiner’s North Star Construction of Homer, Alaska, in the Amount of $48,458.00 and        Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the Appropriate Documents. City Clerk.

                                                                                                                                   

            Memorandum 09-03 from Public Works as backup. 

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion for the adoption of Resolution 09-05 by reading of title only.                            

 

ROBERTS/LEWIS - SO MOVED.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

G.        Resolution 09-06, A Resolution of the Homer City Council Amending Resolution 08-  106(A) Confirming the Assessment Roll for the Spruceview and West Noview Road    Reconstruction and Paving Assessment District to Provide for a Deferred Assessment for   the Pratt Museum. City Manager.         

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion for the adoption of Resolution 09-06 by reading of title only.

                                                           

 

ROBERTS/LEWIS - SO MOVED.

 

The Pratt Museum has agreed to pay off the entire assessment in 2012; they are not prepared to make the payment now.

 

City Attorney Klinkner stated the property fronts on two streets, one of those streets is in the assessment district.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

H.        Resolution 09-07, A Resolution of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Expressing       Support for the Policy Guide “Money, Energy and Sustainability” and Authorizing City             Administration to Implement the Guide to the Maximum Extent Practicable. City         Manager.                                                                                                         

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion for the adoption of Resolution 09-07 by reading of title only.                                                                                                    

 

LEWIS/ROBERTS – SO MOVED.

 

WYTHE/ROBERTS - MOVED TO AMEND PAGE 10 PROMOTE TELECONFERENCING, TO INCLUDE “WHEN APPROPRIATE SYSTEMS CAN BE MADE AVAILABLE.”

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

WYTHE/ROBERTS – MOVED TO AMEND PAGE 10 PURCHASE OF VEHICLES, DELETE “IF AVAILABLE AND PRACTICABLE” AND ADD “WHEN AVAILABLE, PRACTICABLE AND WHERE LASTING ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT IS MINIMIZED.”

 

Many electric and hybrid vehicles are more fuel efficient, although their overall environmental impact may be higher than non-hybrid vehicles.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

Staff and the organization hired to do the work on the document was commended. The booklet will soon be available on the website and at the Clerk’s office.

 

VOTE: (main motion as amended) YES. ZAK, HOWARD, NOVAK, LEWIS, ROBERTS, WYTHE

 

Motion carried.

        

I.          Resolution 09-08, A Resolution of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Creating the Spit          Comprehensive Plan Committee and Authorizing the City Clerk to Advertise for        Interested Participants. City Manager/City Planner.                                          

 

            Memorandum 09-06 from City Planner as backup.      

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion for the adoption of Resolution 09-08 by reading of title only.

 

WYTHE/ROBERTS – SO MOVED.

 

Discussion ensued on authorizing the RFP process before appointing a committee.

 

NOVAK/ZAK – MOVED TO POSTPONE TO THE NEXT MEETING.

 

Council stated the need to go out for RFP for the Spit Comprehensive and Parking Plan. After the RFP is issued a committee could further facilitate the process. Currently there is $50,000 for the Spit Comprehensive Plan and $15,000 for a Spit parking study; it would provide $65,000 for the RFP at the same time.

 

VOTE: (postponement) YES. ZAK, HOWARD, NOVAK, LEWIS, ROBERTS

VOTE: NO. WYTHE

 

Motion carried.                        

 

J.          Resolution 09-09, A Resolution of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Encouraging the           Borough Mayor and Borough Assembly to Add a Recycling Container on the Homer            Spit. Roberts.                                                                                                  

 

ROBERTS/LEWIS - MOVED TO SUBSTITUTE RESOLUTION 09-09(S) FOR RESOLUTION 09-09.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

Councilmember Roberts expressed appreciation for the comments of Mr. Moore and Mr. Parks. The object of the resolution is to begin a conversation with the Borough to see what they can do to help with recycling on the Spit. The substitute resolution merely changes some wording.

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion for the adoption of Resolution 09-09(S)

 

LEWIS/ROBERTS – SO MOVED.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

K.        Resolution 09-10, A Resolution of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Approving a List          of Projects to be Submitted for Possible Inclusion in the Proposed Federal Economic       Stimulus Package. Mayor/City Manager.                                                          

 

MOTION FOR THE ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION 09-10 BY READING OF TITLE ONLY.

 

ROBERTS/LEWIS – SO MOVED.

 

City Manager Wrede explained the City has been encouraged by our delegation and Representative Seaton to get involved in the economic stimulus package. The projects are to be “shovel ready” from 90-120 days from the time the President signs the bill. President Elect Obama is looking to sign the bill possibly on President’s Day in February. The deadline to submit projects fell between council meetings, so projects were chosen by himself, Special Projects Coordinator Holen and Public Works Director Meyer. If Council wishes to change the projects they can do so and a new resolution will be submitted to the delegation. All projects within Resolution 09-10 are bid ready within the time frame set. Mr. Wrede referenced the projects on the list, some of them if authorized would need work done fairly quickly.

 

Councilmember Roberts commented on the projects, stating they were already on the Capital Improvement Plan list. There are non-profits on the list as well with backup information for their needs.

 

Councilmember Zak requested Deep Water Dock, South Bay Ferry and a Vocational Training Center be added to the list. City Manager Wrede said although the Deep Water Dock was a foremost thought, it could not be engineered within 90-120 days. Councilmember Zak suggested Council come up with additional projects.  

 

City Manager Wrede believes there is still time for amendments, the list as outlined on Resolution 09-10 was to meet the deadline as issued by Senator Begich.

 

VOTE: YES. ROBERTS, WYTHE, ZAK, HOWARD, NOVAK, LEWIS

 

Motion carried.

 

L.         Resolution 09-11, A Resolution of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Awarding a      Three Year Contract for Solid Waste Collection and Disposal Services to the Firm of      Moore and Moore Services Inc. dba Quick Sanitation. City Manager.         

 

            Memorandum 09-07, from City Manager as backup.   

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion for the adoption of Resolution 09-11 by reading of title only.                            

 

WYTHE/LEWIS - SO MOVED.

 

Councilmember Zak declared a possible conflict of interest, as Lloyd Moore delivers water to his cabins.

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak ruled Councilmember Zak did not have a conflict of interest.

 

There was no objection from Council.

 

City Manager Wrede summarized there were two good proposals. A committee evaluated the bids on both price and responsiveness, and rated Moore and Moore as their best choice. Moore and Moore had the best price and met the concerns of litter control, and keeping the birds and bears out of the garbage. Mr. Moore provided an alternative to negotiate a fixed price if it was a better deal for the city.

 

VOTE: YES. LEWIS, ROBERTS, WYTHE, ZAK, HOWARD, NOVAK

 

Motion carried.

 

A.        Memorandum 09-04, From City Clerk, Re: Request for Executive Session Pursuant to            AS 44.62.310(C)(2), Matters, Subjects that Tend to Prejudice the Reputation and Character of any Person, Provided the Person may Request a Public Discussion. (City Manager Wrede Annual Performance Evaluation/Employment Contract.)           

 

(Moved from New Business)

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion to discuss the City Manager’s annual performance evaluation/employment contract.

 

LEWIS/HOWARD - SO MOVED.

 

Councilmember Howard asked if the audience could comment prior to Council adjourning to executive session.

 

VOTE: YES. NOVAK, LEWIS, ROBERTS, WYTHE, ZAK, HOWARD

Motion carried.

 

By consensus of the Council the rules were suspended to allow Audience Comments prior to the Executive Session.

 

COMMENTS OF THE AUDIENCE

 

Alan Parks, Homer resident, invited Council to a new documentary film on global climate change and the ocean. It will be shown on January 21st at 6:00 p.m. at the Homer Theatre. A NOAA scientist will lead the discussion along with the film’s producer and director. A donation is suggested, but not required.

 

Judy Nester, Fritz Creek resident, observed a truck running outside McDonalds with no one in it for an extended period of time. She is studying for the Alaska driver’s license and learned it is against the law for vehicles to idle with no one inside them or attending to them. She would hope the City will start enforcing the law. There is one more week to go on the Share the Warmth coat drive. So far the response has been wonderful; the presentation will be made on January 19th at the Methodist church.

 

Leonard Wells, city resident, asked if people take back the paper or plastic bags they now get for free, would they have to pay a quarter. He questioned how to distinguish what is multiple uses. He agrees with folks that say “don’t tell me how to do my living.” On senior property taxes he doesn’t think seniors should have property taxes go up if their income is at the same level as when they turned a senior. When they moved here from somewhere else and bought an expensive house they should pay property tax based on the purchase price. As to sales tax, Homer citizens came through in strong numbers; it was not a close decision. Mr. Wells would like to see home heating fuel exempt from taxes also.

 

Kevin Hogan, city resident, commented on Resolution 09-07. The Economic Development Advisory Commission has been trying to get a motion to Council regarding teleconferencing for commissioners. He is glad to see Council is looking at more items for the economic stimulus package. It is not as fast tracked as everyone is talking about. At the last meeting Mr. Hogan testified before Council asking why the Port and Harbor Terminal Tariff increases had not gone before the Port and Harbor Advisory Commission. Per HCC 10.04.055, a public hearing must be held prior to changes. Mr. Hogan said the City is in violation and should be fined $350 each day. He doesn’t know who enforces the fine, but the City may want to follow the rules.

 

Lloyd Moore, city resident, thanked Council, Mayor Pro Tempore Novak and Walt for the opportunity to continue taking care of trash on the Spit and the City utilities uptown.

 

Bill Smith, Kenai Peninsula Borough Assemblyman, commented on the Community Design Manual. Council missed the context in which the farmers market was referred to. When a public development gets to a certain size they are required to have private areas. The restriction was how to use the public area for a private development. A grocery store without the outdoor sales restriction could have outdoor sales seven days a week. On the senior property tax exemption, the Borough’s exemption for seniors includes those that have a hardship. It is defined by property tax that exceeds 2% of the income of the senior with exempt property. Council may wish to adopt the hardship exemption for seniors that don’t have a lot of money.

 

WYTHE/HOWARD – MOVED TO ADJOURN TO EXECUTIVE SESSION.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

Council adjourned to Executive Session at 9:26 p.m. and did not resume the meeting to issue a statement, nor take any of the following comments.

 

COMMENTS OF THE CITY ATTORNEY

 

City Attorney Klinkner had no comments.

 

COMMENTS OF THE CITY CLERK

 

City Clerk Johnson had no comments.

 

COMMENTS OF THE CITY MANAGER

 

City Manager Wrede had no comments.

 

COMMENTS OF THE MAYOR

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak had no comments.

 

COMMENTS OF THE CITY COUNCIL

 

Councilmembers had no comments.

 

ADJOURNMENT

 

There being no further business to come before the Council the meeting was adjourned at 9:26 p.m. by Mayor Pro Tempore Novak. The next Regular Meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 26, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. The next Committee of the Whole is scheduled for Monday, January 26, 2009 at 4:00 p.m. All meetings scheduled to be held in the Homer City Hall Cowles Council Chambers located at 491 E. Pioneer Avenue, Homer, Alaska.

 

______________________________

JO JOHNSON, CMC, CITY CLERK

 

Approved: _____________________