Session 09-02 a Regular Meeting of the Homer City Council was called to order on January 26, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor James C. Hornaday 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

                                                                            PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR MEYER

 

Council met as a Committee of the Whole from 4:00 p.m. to 5:09 p.m. Agenda items included: Nancy J. Casey, Trail Design Criteria Manual; Projects for Inclusion in the Proposed Federal Economic Stimulus Package and Regular Meeting Agenda.

 

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:

PUBLIC HEARINGS - Ordinance 09-01 Written public comments; ORDINANCES - Ordinance 09-05(S) Substitute ordinance – An Emergency Ordinance of the Homer City Council Repealing and Reenacting Section 4 of Ordinance 06-01(A) to Authorize the Continued Feeding of Eagles Under the permit Issued to Jean Keene Until March 27, 2009; Written public comments; CITY MANAGER’S REPORT - City Manager’s Report.

 

HOWARD/ROBERTS – MOVED TO POSTPONE MEMORANDUM 09-04 TO THE FIRST MEETING IN FEBRUARY AND CALL FOR A SPECIAL MEETING AT 5:30 P.M.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

PUBLIC COMMENTS UPON MATTERS ALREADY ON THE AGENDA

 

Roberta Highland, city resident, supports Ordinance 09-05 to continue feeding eagles until March 27th. She reminded Council and the public of tomorrow night’s meeting on the Karen Hornaday Park Plan.

 

Miranda Weiss, city resident and Development Director at the Pratt Museum, spoke on Resolution 09-16. She thanked Council for including the Pratt Museum renovation project. The museum has an ambitious capital budget with renovation and improvement to programs and exhibit development. On February 3rd at 7:00 p.m. there will be a meeting at the Pratt to present the renovation project.

 

Kyra Wagner, city resident, offered kudos on the disposable bag fee. The landfill will stay cleared. By taking advantage of the available resources in town, many nonprofit organizations can help promote awareness and educate people.

 

Leonard Wells, city resident, asked what the emergency of Ordinance 09-05 was. He asked why the police have not enforced the ordinance and how the City Manager had authority to override Council’s ordinance (to allow feeding to continue from January 13th through January 26th).

 

Kevin Hogan, city resident, expressed appreciation of Resolution 09-17. It may be helpful to know what parcels within City limits are Federal. On Resolutions 09-12 and 09-13 it may be nice to have something such as lease property to entice the State. On Ordinance 09-05 he questioned the emergency and a need to see the closure date moved up to let the birds disperse before taking fish at the fish dock. If we start weaning now, we can thin the population out now. It seems like deliberations and the vote were already taken over the phone. There should be some mechanism to act in an emergency, as the Open Meetings Act can hamstring Council. On Resolution 09-16, Council should look at the Kachemak Bay Ferry. Council may want to send forth a resolution for full funding of Alaska Marine Fisheries loan programs for local people to buy quota. If it is locally funded we would have a lot more local share ownership.

 

Lee Mahan, coordinator of Alaska Eagle Watch Network, received many emails and phone calls from area residents and wildlife organizations. The eagles are here and a decision must be made for their welfare. She supports the emergency ordinance, although not as written, as it is too vague with no perimeters. After talking to Russell Oates, Chief of Migratory Bird Management, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife supports the ordinance not to feed bald eagles. They support the efforts to taper off feeding and end it for good. Since Mr. Torola got permission to help Jean, they started accumulating a lot more eagles. When bald eagles are fed they need to rest, especially in the winter. Mr. Torola must submit a plan to the City to taper off the feedings and disperse the eagles.

 

Will Meeks, Alaska Fish and Wildlife, read a prepared statement from Russell Oates, Chief of Migratory Bird Management, supporting Ordinance 09-05 to continue eagle feeding until March 27, 2009. He encouraged the City to continue feeding and then start tapering off.

 

Roberta Highland, city resident, checked into the tidal power application and $100,000 has been used up by the State already; the City’s application may not get funding. She proposed adding tidal power to the economic stimulus package.

 

Bob Shavelson, city resident, referenced a great DVD called Kilowatt Hours. It is about energy and use. Power from HEA comes from natural gas and hydroelectric. There has been an announcement to terms that HEA, Golden Valley Electric and the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Association have agreed to try to restart the Healy coal plant. It would be a long term contract for the life of the facility where HEA would purchase 50% of the power source at whatever cost. There are significant unknowns, never seen information, and negotiations behind closed doors. The clean coal plant is not set up to deal with mercury; EPA regulations will increase our rates. Clean coal does not address greenhouse gases. There is no way of sequestering CO2. Coal markets are dictated by international supply and demand, causing rate increases. The City has a vested interest with the utility costs. Mr. Shavelson supplied a statement of fact on the Healy Clean Coal project.

 

Steve Torola, Homer resident, has taken over feeding the eagles for Jean Keene. To dispel a myth, when it becomes March, eagles start regulating on their own and begin leaving. The amount of food is governed by whether they are there or not, not how much food is put out.

 

Stuart Schmutzler, longtime Homer resident, supports Ordinance 09-01. We have a responsibility to ourselves and our environment. If we can’t control ourselves then we need to be controlled. Supplying people with reusable bags would be more appropriate than plastic bags. Plastic bags end up in the landfill; they are used once and tossed away. Humans have lived here for thousands of years with no need to use shopping bags. He encouraged everyone to find reusable bags. Charging for plastic bags will curb usage.  

 

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 January 12, 2009 Regular Meeting. City Clerk.                                                                                        

 

B.         Memorandum 09-08, from Mayor, Re: Appointment of Pete Wedin to the Port and    Harbor Advisory Commission and Brad Faulkner to the Economic Development Advisory Commission.

 

Mayor Hornaday called for a motion for the adoption of the recommendations of the consent agenda as read.

 

LEWIS/WYTHE – SO MOVED.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

VISITORS

 

A.                 Rick Eckert, Manager of Business Development & Regulatory Affairs, Homer Electric   Association – Information on the rate increase

 

Rick Eckert presented an explanation for the January 1, 2009 rate increase of 3.5% per kilowatt hour. HEA has a contract through 2013 to purchase wholesale power from Chugach Electrical Association. Natural gas produces 90% of power that HEA consumes. The contract Chugach has with Cook Inlet producers is tied to three components: world price of oil, natural gas markets and a heating oil index on the east coast. The three are averaged over a twelve month period. It was unforeseen the price of crude oil would go to $145 per barrel. We are now seeing that increase; Mr. Eckert believes the price will soften with the current price of oil by the third quarter of 2009. Another component is State regulation through the RCA. Sales and prices are projected and Chugach did not expect the price of oil to increase to $145 per barrel. In the Beluga generation facility the steam turbine had serious maintenance problems and was down. Older and inefficient generators came on, causing more consumption of natural gas.

 

Asked by Council if there was a Federal regulation to require certain kinds of power, Mr. Eckert answered there is no Federal law. HEA is working on wind energy, participating in the Fire Island project and studying low impact hydro projects near Cooper Landing. Renewable fuels may not reduce the price of power, however, removal of fuel reduces the volatility of the price of natural gas. We are close to being at the mercy of the Cook Inlet producers. He expects to meet with City Manager Wrede soon to discuss tidal power projects.

 

Mayor Hornaday commented on the large rate increase and is surprised the RCA would allow this type of increase in the middle of the winter. It should have been programmed in gradually and not all at once; the RCA should have some responsibilities.

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS/PRESENTATIONS/BOROUGH    REPORT/COMMISSION REPORTS

 

Kevin Hogan, Chairman of the Economic Development Advisory Commission, reported the commission is working on the Comprehensive Plan and Lease Policy. He asked citizens to apply for the open seats on the commission. Additionally, there is a student seat to fill.

 

PUBLIC HEARING(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.           

 

Bob Burns, city resident, asked Council to consider a program to get people on board by replacing disposable bags with reusable bags. Then impose a green fee as a second phase. Merchants will be impacted, and ideas have to be taken into account. A committee could be formed that would look at the best ways to deploy the program.

 

Roberta Highland, city resident and President of Kachemak Bay Conservation Society, said money talks and people change their habits. She would encourage all to become responsible for the consequences of their actions and choices. We need to start taking care of things that will reduce alliance on petro products. It is simple to avoid the fee by using recyclable and reusable bags. There are enough plastic bags flying around the community and the problem is huge. There is a huge area in the ocean full of plastic bags. She has been carrying canvass bags for over 15 years and recycles bread bags for produce. Many baby boomers were brought up that it was wrong to waste.

 

Dean Ravin, Homer resident, asked if plastic bags were that evil and dangerous why don’t you just ban them rather than complicate matters by coming up with tax schemes.

 

Kevin Hogan, city resident, commented his company wholesales and ships product out in 1,000 lb. disposable bags and containers. He asked if he would be charged. He is against lifestyle legislation and resents a tax. He is concerned by HCC 5.42.040 that the City cannot dedicate revenue funds. It is against Title 9, Section 7 of the State Constitution.

 

Leonard Wells, city resident, commented both the fee and tax are interchangeable. The ordinance indicates the only person charged is one that takes it home from the store. Plastic bags work well to clean up pet litter and he asked if he told the store he used his to clean up pet litter would he have to pay 25 cents? Would double bags require 50 cents? If he declined to pay the grocer or merchant what option does he or the City Council have? There is no ramification for a merchant that collects the fee and fails to pay. He doesn’t see more than a few bags flying around Homer and the surrounding area.

 

Judith Nester, Homer resident, uses recyclable bags. After RVing around Europe they quickly learned to carry their own bags. In Germany there are no plastic bags; they were surprised to come back to the U.S. after a 14-year absence to learn we were not doing anything. She supports the ordinance and the phased in approach. No one can say the disposable plastic bags are good for the environment. There should be a total ban. Everyone can carry reusable shopping bags; lack of money is not an excuse.

 

Michael Kennedy, longtime Homer resident, has been in the recycling industry for 40 years. He opposes the ordinance. Nobody is in love with plastic bags; it is a matter of finding common ground. Taxation and the fee is the wrong approach; the tax is illegal and not right. Fees should not be collected and given to nongovernmental organizations. He can go to the landfill and throw 10,000 lbs. in and not pay a nickel. The 25 cent fee would be a sin tax. You must educate people. It would make people hostile towards the green movement by assessing fees.

 

Whitney Lowe, Homer resident and Kachemak Bay Conservation Society, supports the intent of the ordinance and urged Council to move forward. Plastic bags do not biodegrade, they photo degrade and are absorbed by marine life and work their way up the food chain. Paper bags have a carbon footprint association with production.

Bob Malone, city resident, opposes the ordinance. He hikes and snowshoes year round and also walks the beaches. He finds very little plastic bag litter, but does find beverage containers. Now is a terrible time for families to incur the extra expense of a bag tax. Sales tax will resume in June. He just paid the largest electric bill ever and saw the longest line ever at the Homer Food Pantry. After the windstorms he drove around town and didn’t find any plastic bags, nor any bags on the trails. Homer is doing a great job about picking up and recycling. People are recycling every time he goes to the dump. Many markets in Alaska are following the best practices and ALPAR rates Homer as the top recycler within the Borough.

 

Dale Banks, Homer resident, commented the recycling rate in Homer is 3%. Anyone at the landfill can point out how bad recycling is. He is torn about the ordinance; it has good intentions, yet is mis-worded in a lot of ways by addressing litter rather than solid waste. People are commenting about the litter blowing around. The Climate Action Plan and nonprofit organizations are worthy facilities and need to be funded.

 

Lee Mahan, Homer resident, commented that plastic bags are breakup in the springtime. Education of the general public is the key with someone talking to the businesses. During the bad economic times it may not be the time to introduce a 25 cent bag fee.

 

Yakov Reutov, opposes the ordinance as it is a tax on local business and customers with larger families. Some people from the Russian communities share his thoughts. Homer does not have a plastic bag problem. He asked Council to postpone the tax indefinitely.

 

Jeanne Parker, Homer resident, does a lot of walking and finds a lot of plastic bags. Her concern is the ones that go into the ocean. If you want people to stop using them, ban them. Trying to teach people causes problems and emotional backlash.

 

Scott Cunningham, business owner, favors the plastic bag ban. Charging the consumer for every bag would be a hardship to businesses. The ordinance needs to be rewritten.

 

Lee Burkhardt, Homer resident, said there are hard times for everybody. He works with a lot of guys that have to ask if it is time to move on. Any tax would be a hard time on his family. He uses the bags and would have to buy bags to take stuff to the dump. To tax and burden people more will not keep people here. Consider what younger families are up against. Not everybody has the convenience of remembering to bring everything and taxing is the worst answer. The younger generation is here doing work and the question is how much can we take before considering moving on?

 

Elizabeth Newman, Anchor Point resident, supports a ban on plastic bags. If San Francisco can ban the use of bags, our small population will be able to deal with it.

 

Tom Bursch, city resident, commented the intention is good; it is not so much a tax and penalizing people, just changing behavior. It will make the place better for all. People will only pay 25 cents a bag for a number of times before they come up with a resourceful solution. It is the opportunity for Council to show leadership and help make our community a better place.

LEWIS/ROBERTS – MOVED TO POSTPONE SECOND READING TO THE FIRST MEETING IN APRIL TO WORK OUT THE WRINKLES.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

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.              

 

Dean Ravin, Homer resident, commented on October 7, 2008 that 434 Homer #2 voters or 66.59% favored the sales tax exemption proposition; 535 Homer #1 voters or 67.8% favored it. More than 2/3 of city voters voted to remove sales tax on food.

 

Michael Kennedy, Homer resident, told Council a month ago they were in agreement with respect to the wishes of the voters of the City. Council doesn’t like the way people voted. Two thirds of the people voted in no tax; there is no transparency with City Council, they will vote until they get their way. At the recent election, the Republicans lost; can they say we must vote again? In the January 15th Homer News it was reported Councilmember Zak would be happy to see the food tax back as quickly as we can, as the voters of the City did not vote for the exemption. Borough wide only 60% voted for the tax. It is a disservice to people that voted to say the vote didn’t happen like it did. 

 

Leonard Wells, city resident, reiterated most comments of the previous speaker. Barbara (Howard) got more votes percentage wise than the people that voted against the tax. The vote was honest; we didn’t vote on the City’s tax, we voted on it in the Borough. He understands why Council wants more tax money to spend since they weren’t willing to cut city spending.

 

Kevin Hogan, city resident, commented “Amen”.

 

Jules Ravin, Homer resident, is disappointed to see food tax being discussed again. If people voted to see no taxes on food for nine months out of the year, he is curious to see why Council wants a different vote. It would be the same vote and the same outcome.

 

Lee Burkhardt, Homer resident, commented the more you tax, it is worth the $40 to run up the road. It will hurt local businesses. People would rather spend two and a half hours on the road enjoying time with their families.

 

Yakov Reutov, Homer resident, said the tax was voted down a few months ago. Why are you talking about it again?

Mayor Hornaday called for a motion for the adoption of Ordinance 09-02 by reading of title only for second and final reading.

 

NOVAK/ROBERTS – SO MOVED.

 

Councilmember Novak knows that the voters voted on the Borough sales tax and he recognizes the percentage of votes. The end of December Council decided to follow through and adopt zero for city sales tax on nonprocessed foods. There is a strong move to have a referendum vote on the issue again. In every other city in the Borough, Homer is the only one that went to zero. After the summer is over and the season is gone we have to see if we made more money. We gave up $800,000 in sales tax revenue, and may have to cut the sales tax by another $1M. People can make the call after the season is over. Voters voted to contribute 1.5% to HART and HAWSP and we are not doing that now. On the financial need of the City, we need to have it out for a vote to the people.

 

Councilmember Roberts commented sales tax from people outside Homer is a way that others contribute. That is the main reason why the vote should be next fall. As to the statement made by Mr. Zak in the paper, he was referring to the fact of bringing the issue back to the voters, referring to Borough voters. We are the only city in the Kenai Peninsula Borough not charging grocery sales tax and the voters need to determine if they wish to continue that.

 

Councilmember Wythe voiced opposition to the ordinance as City sales tax follows the Borough tax. At the Borough level they made a change in the regulation, which would allow cities to change the vote. She is not particularly in favor about eliminating the sales tax. People chose to have the amenities and with the absence of the sales tax Council must start cutting the extra amenities, such as parks and recreation and Community Schools. In 2008 the City was down $.5M, minus the absence of sales tax. When you voted for the food tax exemption, you voted away all the extra services the City sales tax pays for. Sales tax is needed to make every avenue function, such as roads, water, sewer, fire and police protection, Community Schools and the library. The only purpose to bring the sales tax issue back is to ask if voters realized they voted away the amenities. At the Borough level the absence of sales tax on food items reduces funding for schools.

 

Councilmember Lewis expressed support. When we talk about 66% of the voters we are talking about 18% of the registered voters; 27% of the voters came out to vote. He would like to see a larger percentage of voters.

 

Councilmember Howard voted for the ordinance’s introduction and a public hearing. She is respectful to the voters at the ballot box. She does not support the ordinance and approval of the budget for nonessential services and expenditures. Sewer, water, police and fire are the City’s functions.

 

Councilmember Wythe commented the voters voted in Council members and she would not ignore the intent of the voters when they are the same ones that put us at this table.

 

Councilmember Zak appreciates the fact that Councilmembers Novak and Roberts brought the sales tax back so quickly. Council went through the budget cycle and it is only fair to give that vote back to the people. He does not want to reduce sales tax on nonprepared foods. This year nonprofits took a big cut and the City budget a $1M cut. With increased energy costs we will see a lot more costs to deal with. Sales tax is fair; it brings in everyone throughout the area to pay for services.

 

VOTE: YES. ROBERTS, ZAK, NOVAK, LEWIS

VOTE: NO. WYTHE, HOWARD

 

Motion carried.

 

Mayor Hornaday called for a recess at 8:42 p.m. and reconvened the meeting at 8:49 p.m.       

 

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.

 

            Ordinance 09-03(S), 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 30% Local    Match, and Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the Appropriate Documents.      City Manager/Finance. Follows schedule of Ordinance 09-03.                                     

 

There was no public comment.

 

Mayor Hornaday called for a motion to substitute Ordinance 09-03 with Ordinance 09-03(S).

 

WYTHE/LEWIS - SO MOVED.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

Mayor Hornaday called for a motion for the adoption of Ordinance 09-03(S) by reading of title only for second and final reading.

 

NOVAK/LEWIS – 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.

 

            Ordinance 09-04(S), 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. Follows schedule of Ordinance             09-04.                         

 

Leonard Wells, city resident, commented the senior exemption should not be passed unless you can figure out a nonpayment by a senior who can’t afford it now and the indebtedness of the property be forgiven until sold or transferred at death. If you are the primary owner of the house all your life you could get an exception; if you recently purchased the house you have the means of paying the tax. By means of your age alone does not qualify for an exemption. Put a senior in the same category as nonprofits and churches. If you are going to tax one class of people you should tax all.

 

Kevin Hogan, city resident, does not support the Borough or the City’s exemption. It is putting the burden on someone else. Young people are struggling. They are living in their cars and barely making it. If people can afford property they can afford to pay the taxes. It would be placing the burden on someone else. Unless the people that have been paying all these years can be grandfathered in he asked Council to lay off a little bit.

 

Michael Kennedy, city resident, is close to qualifying for the exemption but does not think it is fair. It would be fair for a senior if disabled, a widow or widower of a disabled person, the person is on welfare, or their only income is social security. Just age is not enough qualification. He agrees it should not being passed on to the young people. There are plenty of people working for $8 to $10 an hour in a $12 an hour world. People are living in blue tarps and driving to work at Safeway, paying two hours of their pay for fuel.

 

Mayor Hornaday called for a motion to substitute Ordinance 09-04 with Ordinance 09-04(S).

 

NOVAK/ZAK - SO MOVED.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

Mayor Hornaday called for a motion for the adoption of Ordinance 09-04 by reading of title only for second and final reading.

 

NOVAK/ZAK – SO MOVED.          

 

Councilmember Novak commented that most older seniors in Homer are living on a fixed income. Property taxes, medical, groceries, fuel and utilities have all increased. Matching the Borough exemption will provide direct financial relief. The Borough is providing a $300,000 exemption and $20,000 that residents can get. For people that have lived here for years appraisals have gone up and their homes are worth a lot more. They don’t want to leave their home, yet are appraised out of the house. An exemption at this level would cover those people.

 

Councilmember Zak noted that both appraisals and taxes have gone up and a lot of seniors have lived here to see great appreciation in their property value. He favors the sales tax increase and supports a decrease in property tax for seniors. The Borough has the senior exemption; the City does not. It is the fair thing to do.

 

Councilmember Wythe opposes the exemption. There is some language in the Borough ordinance that looks at the exemption from an economic standpoint. With the growing senior population, if we keep increasing discounts for seniors who will be left to provide for city services. There is only so much can be placed on working citizens. It is not an appropriate time to do this. We just took $1M out of our budget and this would be an additional $100,000 budget loss.

 

Councilmember Roberts does not support the ordinance, echoing Councilmember Wythe’s comments. Senior citizens are on fixed incomes; are younger people on growing incomes? All groups of people need to be considered.

 

Councilmember Howard stated as written it would be $320,000 more than the Borough. The revenue loss is estimated at $92,000 for this year. Do we cut taxes or raise the mil rate to make up the difference? After finishing the strategic plan for the hospital, the largest growing population throughout the Borough is in seniors over 65. Councilmember Howard is not accustomed to asking other people to pay her bills. She asked that we find out about the appraisal software and if it is accurate, stating the need to get back to the formula.

 

HOWARD/WYTHE – MOVED THAT “WIDOW” AND “WIDOWER” BE IN TITLE AND THE SECOND WHEREAS TO BE CONSISTENT WITH THE LANGUAGE ON THE BACK.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

Councilmember Lewis commented if a person was on a fixed income below a certain level they would qualify for the exemption. He could support the ordinance if it showed some form of real need.

 

Council discussed the property tax effects on the seniors and also placing the debt on our children. It was suggested a senior could downsize to something affordable and be fiscally responsible. Another view was that seniors are the leaders and pioneers of the community.

 

VOTE: YES. ZAK, NOVAK

VOTE: NO. LEWIS, ROBERTS, WYTHE, HOWARD

 

Motion carried.

 

ORDINANCE(S)

 

A.        Ordinance 09-05, An Emergency Ordinance of the City Council of Homer, Alaska,     Repealing and Reenacting Section Four of Ordinance 06-01(A) to Authorize the   Continued Feeding of Eagles Under the Permit Issued to Jean Keene Until March 27,             2009.   Mayor/Howard/Lewis/Novak/Roberts/Wythe/Zak.                              

 

            Ordinance 09-05(S), An Emergency Ordinance of the Homer City Council Repealing and Reenacting Section 4 of Ordinance 06-01(A) to Authorize the Continued Feeding of      Eagles Under the Permit Issued to Jean Keene Until March 27, 2009. Mayor/         Howard/Lewis/Novak/Roberts/Wythe/Zak.     

 

Mayor Hornaday called for a motion for the adoption of Ordinance 09-05(S) by reading of title only.

 

LEWIS/NOVAK - SO MOVED.

 

ROBERTS/NOVAK - MOVED TO AMEND THE ORDINANCE LINE 60 TO CHANGE TO TODAY’S DATE.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

ZAK - MOVED TO CHANGE THE EXPIRATION DATE TO MARCH 27, 2099.

 

Motion died for lack of a second.

 

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

 

Motion carried.

B.         Ordinance 09-06, An Ordinance of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Appropriating             Funds in the Amount of $6,940.00 from the General Fund for Housing and Operational        Expenses for a VISTA Volunteer. Wythe. Recommended Dates: Introduction January 26,             2009, Public Hearing    and Second Reading February 9, 2009.                        

 

Mayor Hornaday called for a motion for the adoption of Ordinance 09-06 for introduction and first reading by reading of title only.

 

WYTHE/NOVAK – SO MOVED.

 

The ordinance is to fulfill the financial commitment Council made last fall to bring a VISTA person to Homer.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

CITY MANAGER’S REPORT

 

A.        City Manager’s Report 

 

  1. Money, Energy and Sustainability: A policy guide for City Employees on reducing energy use and waste in local government operations: At the last meeting, this guide was approved by the Council. During the discussion, Council requested that we put together a memo that describes how the handbook could be distributed, publicized, and generally made available to those who are interested. Attached is a memo from Anne Marie which addresses that topic.
  2. Garbage Collection: Moore and Moore Services is scheduled to begin garbage collection on February 1. It will likely take them until the end of March to get all of the dumpsters fitted with the new bird proof lids. A new garbage contract was being finalized at the time this report was drafted.
  3. Water and Sewer Rates: The Finance and Public Works Staff are working to pull information together for the February 9th Committee of the Whole. Regina has ordered new books to supplement our library regarding rates structures for small utilities. She is also looking at how many customers the City would need to “break even” and how many residences there are that should be hooked up but are not. Public Works is well on the way to preparing the maps you requested.
  4. Community Policing / Crime Prevention: This agenda contains two resolutions sponsored by the Mayor. One requests that a Superior Court be established in Homer. The other requests that a District Attorney be stationed here. Chief Robl reviewed these resolutions and reminded me that the thing that would help the community the most would likely be an adult probation officer. You may recall that this was one of the recommendations in the report we provided. Mark says that he has been talking to the State and that this would be a good time to request that a probation officer be transferred from Kenai. Budgets are being worked on and revised right now. So, please let us know if there is any interest in pursuing this.
  5. Kachemak Bay Ferry Project: At the last meeting, it was suggested that the Kachemak Bay Ferry might be a good project for the Economic Stimulus Package. I told you that I would check with Michael Beal to see where they are on the project. I had the opportunity to speak with Mike last week. He told me that the ferry has already been designed and that construction has begun. He said that they believed they already had enough money to complete the project. He did say that the one thing the City could help them with was a new ramp to their preferred berthing site (see attached letter from Seldovia Village Tribe). The City already has a float replacement / gangway project on the stimulus package list and could potentially add another gangway. Another gangway at that location would benefit the City and harbor users at large. This will require a lot more discussion of course, but I wanted to give you a heads-up.

 

City Manager Wrede reported the airport tile project is moving forward quickly. Work will begin soon. Replacing the carpet with tile will help with maintenance costs. The project is to be completed by the end of March. The contractor and Public Works are working to minimize the impact to the public. Council adopted money for painting and the current contractor will be submitting a low enough price to amend the contract. Public Works Director Meyer is offering Council tours of the Water Treatment Plant. It is at a point now where there is heat, and much of the equipment is in. It would be good to tour the old plant first and then the new. DEC was here last week and was thrilled about the equipment. The membrane system is state of the art; it will improve the water quality. City Manager Wrede attended the APOC meeting last week on the question/answer brochure for City Hall/Town Square. The board has not yet made a decision; they are bogged down in procedural issues. He hopes to get some guidance from APOC as to what we can do. It will be helpful with the sales tax ballot proposition.

 

Mayor Hornaday commented he asked the City Manager to keep a tab running of what Frank Griswold costs the City.

           

B.         Bid Report                                                                                                      

 

C.        Question of the Week                                                                                      

           

COMMITTEE REPORT

           

A.        Public Arts Committee

 

B.                 Transportation Advisory Committee

 

Committee member Francie Roberts reported on the TAC’s work, including review of the HART Policy and Trails Design Criteria Manual.

 

C.        Permanent Fund Committee

 

D.        Lease Committee                                                                                             

 

City Manager Wrede reported the committee is active. The lease and all options on the Sports Shed have expired; the current lessees have asked that a new lease be granted under the provisions of the Lease Policy. It was put out for RFP and the current lessees were given the opportunity to match the bid. If a proposal came in for the same use, the current lessee would have the opportunity to match the bid. The Lease Committee will hear it in February. The Land Allocation Plan will be before Council soon and the committee will make recommendations on what properties to lease. The committee is working on lease policies, identifying the issues to discuss.

 

E.         Memorandum 09-09 from Planning Technician, Re: Karen Hornaday Hillside Park        Master Plan Open House                                                                                   

 

PENDING BUSINESS

 

A.        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.                                          

 

Motion on the floor from January 12th meeting: MOTION FOR THE ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION 09-08 BY READING OF TITLE ONLY.

 

HOWARD/ROBERTS – MOVED TO POSTPONE TO THE FIRST MEETING IN MARCH.

 

City Manager Wrede asked that Council not postpone the matter too far, as it will take time to get a committee in place.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

B.         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.)           

 

Under Agenda Approval Memorandum 09-04 was postponed to a Special Meeting February 9th.

 

NEW BUSINESS

 

A.        Memorandum 09-13, From City Clerk, Re: Setting the Land Allocation Joint   Worksession with Council’s Advisory Bodies for Monday, February 23, 2009 at 5:30          p.m.

Mayor Hornaday called for a    motion for the approval of the recommendations of Memorandum 09-13.         

                                                                                               

WYTHE/NOVAK - SO MOVED.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

RESOLUTIONS

 

A.        Resolution 09-12, A Resolution of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Expressing       Support for Establishing a District Attorney’s Office in Homer. Mayor.

 

Mayor Hornaday called for a    motion for the adoption of Resolution 09-12 by reading of title only.

 

HOWARD/LEWIS - SO MOVED.

 

NOVAK/ROBERTS – MOVED TO AMEND THE LAST BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED TO SAY SENATORS MURKOWSKI AND BEGICH.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

Councilmember Howard expressed appreciation of a District Attorney, along with a Probation Officer and Superior Court in Homer. We are well on our way of making the quality of life in Homer better.

 

City Manager Wrede stated he had meant to say Senator Stevens.

 

WYTHE/NOVAK - MOVED TO AMEND THE FINAL BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED TO STRIKE BEGICH AND MURKOWSKI AND REPLACE WITH SENATOR STEVENS.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

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

Motion carried.

 

B.         Resolution 09-13, A Resolution of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Expressing       Support for the Establishment of a Superior Court in Homer. Mayor.

 

Mayor Hornaday called for a motion for the adoption of Resolution 09-13 by reading of title only.

 

LEWIS/ROBERTS – SO MOVED.

 

WYTHE/NOVAK – MOVED TO AMEND THE FINAL BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED TO STRIKE BEGICH AND REPLACE WITH STEVENS.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

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

 

Motion carried.

 

C.        Resolution 09-14, A Resolution of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Awarding the   Contract for the Cellular Phone Service and Equipment to the Firm of GCI of      Anchorage, Alaska, in the Monthly Amount of $1,871.23 and Authorizing the City      Manager to Execute the Appropriate Documents. City Clerk.               

 

            Memorandum 09-11 from City Manager as backup.    

 

Mayor Hornaday called for a motion for the adoption of Resolution 09-14 by reading of title only.                                

 

WYTHE/LEWIS - SO MOVED.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

D.        Resolution 09-15, A Resolution of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Approving a    Request for Proposals to Conduct a Homer Spit Comprehensive Plan and Associated      Parking Study. City Council.    

 

Mayor Hornaday called for a    motion for the adoption of Resolution 09-15 by reading of title only.                                                     

 

HOWARD/ROBERTS - SO MOVED.

 

NOVAK/ROBERTS - MOVED TO AMEND THE RFP ON PAGE 190 UNDER TASK 3 PARKING TO SAY: THE PARKING COMPONENT INCLUDES IDENTIFYING PROBLEMS, AND PRIORITIZING ISSUES OF CONCERN, SUCH AS THOSE LISTED ABOVE AND PROPOSING SOLUTIONS. ADDITIONALLY, A PARKING PLAN WILL BE DEVELOPED THAT RESPONDS TO SHORT AND LONG TERM PARKING NEEDS AND EVALUATES FUTURE PARKING NEEDS.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.        

 

Motion carried.

 

Councilmember Zak voiced opposition against the resolution, stating what makes the Spit successful is that there is no plan. It may be a way to cut the budget.

 

Councilmember Howard commented she served on the Planning Commission with Mr. Zak when they were dealing with parking issues and hopes he considers supporting the resolution for the sake of the Planning Commission.

 

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

VOTE: NO. ZAK

 

Motion carried.

 

E.         Resolution 09-16, A Resolution of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Amending and             Supplementing the City’s Approved List of Projects to be Submitted for Possible   Inclusion in the Proposed Federal Economic Stimulus Package. Mayor/City Council.

                                                                                                                                   

            Memorandum 09-10, from City Manager and Public Works as backup.

 

Mayor Hornaday called for a    motion for the adoption of Resolution 09-16 by reading of title only.

 

NOVAK/ROBERTS - SO MOVED.

 

NOVAK/HOWARD – MOVED TO REMOVE THE SPIT TRAIL COMPLETION, AS WE ALREADY HAVE MONEY FROM THE STATE.

 

Councilmember Novak commented we should be asking for projects we would not get any other way. Other projects are bigger and would have more qualifying.

 

Mayor Hornaday commented Senator Begich said there would be matching monies from other sources.

 

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

 

Motion carried.

 

NOVAK – MOVED TO REMOVE FREIGHT DOCK ROAD AND HARBOR PARKING.

 

Motion died for lack of a second.

 

NOVAK – MOVED TO REMOVE THE DOWNTOWN AND SPIT RESTROOMS.

 

Motion died for lack of a second.

 

NOVAK – MOVED TO REMOVE THE SENIOR ACCESS TRAIL.

 

Motion died for lack of a second.

 

NOVAK – MOVED TO REMOVE REBER TRAIL CONSTRUCTION.

 

Motion died for lack of a second.

 

Councilmember Roberts called for a point of order to clarify the list. The Spit Trail Completion was the only project removed.

 

WYTHE/ROBERTS - MOVED TO PLACE A FIRST BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT THE COUNCIL HEREBY EXPRESSES ITS’ SUPPORT FOR THE FOLLOWING COMMUNITY REVITALIZATION/STIMULATION PROGRAM TO INCLUDE:

NEW CITY HALL, TOWN CENTER INFRASTRUCTURE, COLLEGE EXPANSION, HOMER MIDDLE SCHOOL (VOC-ED CENTER), INTERSECTION AND ROAD IMPROVEMENTS, PORT AND HARBOR MAINTENANCE (INCLUDES FLOATS AND RAMP 3), DEEP WATER DOCK EXPANSION AND THE MUSEUM RENOVATION AND HAVE THE CITY STAFF PROVIDE THE DOLLAR AMOUNTS. IN THE ABSENCE OF APPROVAL OF THE ENTIRE COMMUNITY REVITALIZATION/STIMULATION PACKAGE, WE WOULD SUPPORT THE INDIVIDUAL ITEMS LISTED.

 

Councilmember Wythe voiced support for an entire package. In looking for a large scale of revitalization and stimulus that would touch the whole community to provide jobs before and after the construction phase, you would look at the whole picture.

 

ZAK/WYTHE – MOVED TO ADD A FRIENDLY AMENDMENT TO ADD THE HOMER MIDDLE SCHOOL (VOC-ED CENTER).

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

Mayor Hornaday stated this is not the way to do this. Projects should be listed singularly.

 

Councilmember Wythe defended it is a way to put people to work and stimulate the community. You can do one thing, but it will only add jobs to one. Every item in the community action plan will be a full community renovation. Although that may not be feasible, we will accept funding for any of the aspects or components. Ask for the sky and settle for a star. Ask for what you want; be happy for what you get.

 

Councilmember Lewis asked to add the Kevin Bell Arena that could be used in the summertime for a farmers market and boat shows. It would be an economic stimulus in the summertime.

 

Mayor Hornaday asserted individual voting was needed. The wording of the resolution fits the form that Senators Begich and Murkowski wanted to do. Councilmember Wythe is changing the form and it is no way to make a presentation.

 

Councilmember Zak appreciates Councilmember Wythe trying to package the stimulus request. The factors are interrelated with the college and City Hall.

 

VOTE: YES. WYTHE, ZAK, HOWARD, ROBERTS

VOTE: NO. NOVAK, LEWIS

 

Motion carried.

 

NOVAK/ZAK – MOVED TO VOTE ON THE ITEMS INDIVIDUALLY TO PRIORITIZE THEM.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

ROBERTS/ZAK – MOVED TO ADD THE TURBINE ELECTRIC PROJECT AS MENTIONED ON PAGE 197 OF OUR PACKET.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

ROBERTS/ZAK- MOVED TO ADD THE DEEP WATER DOCK AS MENTIONED ON PAGE 197 OF OUR PACKET.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

ZAK/ - MOVED TO ADD A LOAN PROGRAM FUNDED THROUGH THE NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES FOR THE IFQ’S.

 

Motion died for lack of a second.

 

ZAK/WYTHE - MOVED TO CREATE A VOCATIONAL EDUCATION CENTER WHERE THE OLD HOMER MIDDLE SCHOOL IS.

 

Discussion ensued on the dateline on the project. Projects need to be ready to go to bid in six months.

 

VOTE: YES. WYTHE, ZAK, HOWARD, NOVAK

VOTE: NO. ROBERTS, LEWIS

 

Motion carried.

 

NOVAK/ZAK – MOVED TO ADD THE WATER STORAGE DISTRIBUTION IMPROVEMENT PROJECT.

 

Councilmember Roberts asked how a forgiveness clause would be included if the project was not affordable. City Manager Wrede suggested getting the programs out there and then evaluating them. After projects are approved a forgiveness clause will be reviewed.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

NOVAK/ZAK – MOVED TO ADD THE HOMER SEWER PLANT BIOSOLIDS TREATMENT IMPROVEMENT PROJECT.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

ZAK/NOVAK – MOVED TO ADD THE IDENTIFICATION, PURCHASE, AND IMPROVEMENT OF AN ALTERNATIVE WATER SOURCE TO OUR EXISTING WATER SOURCE.

 

Councilmember Zak defended that soon Homer will need an alternative water source and we will have to pay for it somehow. If we can identify it and hook it up to our existing water source, it would be a good project.

 

City Manager Wrede said that project was left off the list as money is needed for a feasibility study. There is no way we would be able to go to construction in six months.

 

Council acknowledged the need for a future water supply, although noted the project was not “shovel ready”.

 

VOTE: YES. ZAK

VOTE: NO. LEWIS, ROBERTS, WYTHE, HOWARD, NOVAK

 

Motion failed.

 

NOVAK/LEWIS – MOVED TO ADD THE HOMER SANITARY SEWER REHABILITATION PROJECT.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

NOVAK/ROBERTS – MOVED TO ADD THE HOMER PRESSURE REDUCING VAULT REPLACEMENT PROJECT.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

ROBERTS/ZAK – MOVED TO ADD THE CITY HALL PROJECT TO THE LIST.

 

This is added as a single item in the event the whole project for City Hall is not chosen.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

WYTHE/ZAK - MOVED TO AMEND THAT STAFF WILL PROVIDE THE FINANCIAL INFORMATION THAT GOES WITH THE PROJECTS.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

The list is for green growth, creating jobs quickly and repairing basic infrastructure. Administration will prioritize the projects, with the City Hall package as priority.

 

Mayor Hornaday again noted the confusing means the list was put together for presentation to the Legislature.

 

WYTHE/NOVAK - MOVED AS STAFF PREPARES THE RESOLUTION TO ORDER THAT WHICH COSTS THE MOST TO THOSE THAT COST THE LEAST JUST AS THEY HAVE DONE IN THE NON PROFIT SECTION.

 

Councilmember Roberts noted the CIP list presented to Legislators each year contains 12 to 15 projects.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

WYTHE/NOVAK - CALLED FOR THE QUESTION.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

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

 

Motion carried.

 

F.         Resolution 09-17, A Resolution of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Requesting that            the Kenai Peninsula Borough Share Federal Payment in Lieu of Taxes Revenue with             Municipalities within the Borough. Mayor.        

 

Mayor Hornaday called for a motion for the adoption of Resolution 09-17 by reading of title only.                                            

 

WYTHE/ROBERTS - SO MOVED.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

COMMENTS OF THE AUDIENCE

 

Leonard Wells, city resident, thanked Council for the best Council meeting in a long time. Senior citizens do have a choice; they can take their valuable property and move. He asked to hear the emergency for Ordinance 09-06. He thanked Beth for the outstanding idea for presenting the large picture as a single item and allowing the inclusion of other priorities. We are looking for an $8.25 billion stimulus package.

 

Heather Beggs, Director of the Pratt Museum, invited Council and the public to their meeting on February 3rd at 7:00 p.m.

 

COMMENTS OF THE CITY ATTORNEY

 

Attorney Klinkner was not present.

 

COMMENTS OF THE CITY CLERK

 

City Clerk Johnson had no comments.

 

COMMENTS OF THE CITY MANAGER

 

City Manager Wrede responded to Mr. Wells on the eagle ordinance. Council found an emergency due to the biological emergency. If they had used the normal ordinance process it would have taken a month. The ordinance clearly states why an emergency ordinance was required. It is only in effect for 60 days. Attorney Tom Klinkner is preparing another ordinance for consideration at the next meeting to stop eagle feeding in 2009, instead of 2010.

 

COMMENTS OF THE MAYOR

 

Mayor Hornaday stated he loves the Council, even though he doesn’t understand them at times. He commented on the meaningful farewell to the Eagle Lady Jean Keene. The memorial service on Saturday was a packed house. She has received coverage all around the world.

 

COMMENTS OF THE CITY COUNCIL

 

Councilmember Novak said Council has big dreams on the stimulus. With the passing of Jean Keene, the Eagle Lady, it is amazing the response we have gotten from all over the country. She had been out there working; people say she made a great impression on them. It is amazing all of the feedback from all around. She contributed much more than we realized.

 

Councilmember Zak dittoed everything Councilmember Novak said about Jean Keene. He tried to extend the time for someone to feed the eagles. If Town Center is approved maybe we can get Jean Keene in bronze feeding the eagles.

 

Councilmember Wythe appreciates everyone that stuck around. With the death of Jean Keene it is the end of an era for Homer. It was a nice mix of both sides of the story about bags. Very seldom do you find where legislation results in lasting social change. To change the society view about the bags, Council’s job is to find positive methods of enforcing, without enforcing something down people’s throats. She is tired of having someone else’s opinion stuffed down her throat. Council needs to find ways that are positive, such as fund raisers to sell bags. Non profits will be making money. As we move forward she would like all councilmmebers to be cognizant when bringing forward things. She asked that both sides are looked at so we are not creating an issue.

 

Councilmember Roberts thanked Councilmember Lewis for bringing the bag ordinance forward. The education component is something that we need to be thinking about in the future. During the original comment period someone expressed concern we were having a serial meeting concerning the eagles. Councilmember Roberts told the City Manager she wanted to sponsor an ordinance; there was no meeting.

 

Councilmember Lewis commented he found the bag issue interesting. He doesn’t think it is dead. It will come back. How it is resolved, Council has yet to see.

 

Councilmember Howard asked if under public comments script of “except public hearing items” could be added. She supports continued education on the plastic bags. Her customers say the town is clean. It is Council’s responsibility to come to the meetings with all components of the constituents. She wished the Mayor good luck; she is expecting great things.

 

ADJOURNMENT

 

There being no further business to come before the Council the meeting was adjourned at 10:38 p.m. by Mayor James C. Hornaday. The next Regular Meeting is scheduled for Monday, February 9, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. The next Committee of the Whole is scheduled for Monday, February 9, 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: _____________________