Session 04-07, a Regular Meeting of the Homer City Council was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Jack Cushing at the Homer City Hall Council
Chambers located at 491 E Pioneer Avenue, Homer, Alaska, and opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.
The Council conducted a worksession on Long Range Fiscal Planning on the General and Port/Harbor Funds from 9:06 a.m.11:59 a.m. Lunch
break.1:36 p.m. to 3:39 p.m. Council's Committee of the Whole met from 4:06 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
PRESENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: FENSKE, LADD, NOVAK, STARK, YOURKOWSKI.
STAFF: CITY MANAGER WREDE
CITY CLERK CALHOUN
CITY PLANNER MCKIBBEN
PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR MEYER
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER: BECK (excused)
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 with the following changes: Consent Agenda: Parks and Recreation Commission Memorandum objecting
to Ordinance 04-12, Substitute Resolution 04-30(S), with Memorandum 04-54, Regarding the Award of the Dredge Spoils Bid, Item K should read
MOU with the Homer Animal Friends and SOS (Support Our Shelter), Item L. should read MOU with KBBI regarding the Concert on the Lawn for
2004, and Memorandum from Fire Chiefas backup to Memorandum 04-48, KBBI MOU. New Business: Receipt of Memorandum 04-51, Re:
Long Range Fiscal Planning, under New Business. and Public Hearing: Written Public Testimony on Ordinance 04-11. Consent Agenda Item B.,
Ordinance 04-12 was pulled. Ordinance 04-11 will have a second public hearing on April 12, 2004. Additional written public comments on Ordinance
04-12 and 04-11 were received after the meeting started
PUBLIC COMMENTS UPON MATTERS ALREADY ON THE AGENDA
Public Comments upon matters on the agenda except Visitors - Kachemak Shellfish Growers Association and Homer Foundation; and Public Hearing
Items Ordinance 04-10, Two Patrol Vehicles and Ordinance 04-11, Standards and Large Retail and Wholesale Developments with associated
Resolutions and documents.
Debbie Poore, Parks and Recreation Commissioner, advised the Council that the Parks and Recreation Commission does not support Ordinance
04-12, the use of the Parks and Recreation Reserve Account for stocking of the Fishin' Lagoon. She pointed out that the Commission was recently
advised that this reserve is to be used for capital expenditures, such as playground equipment for Karen Hornaday Hillside Park and the area by the
Fishin' Hole, and not for consumables. She emphasized that the Commission does support stocking of the Fishin' Lagoon, just not the use of the
reserved funds.
Carole Hamik, Parks and Recreation Commissioner, echoed Debbie Poore's comments. She stated that money for the Fishin' Hole is great; however,
the Commission noted the need for playground equipment at the City parks, at Jeffrey Park and Ben Walters Park. She voiced appreciation for the
work of the Council, thanked the Council for listening and promised that she would give a Commission report at the next meeting.
Scott Adams expressed concern about the table talks of taxation, Southern Borough, service fees or any other name. He commented that he is one of
many property owners annexed to the City less than two years ago with the claim, "in order to provide services". He noted now there is talk of
taxation again. He voiced his hope that the City would be talking about economical development versus taxes.
RECONSIDERATION
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 March 8, 2004 Regular Meeting. Recommend approval.
B. Ordinance 04-12, Of the City Council, Appropriating $10,000 for Stocking the Fishin' Hole from the Parks and Recreation Reserve Fund and
Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the Appropriate Documents. Beck. Fiscal Note: Fund expenditure from Parks and Recreation Reserve Fund
Acct. 151-385. Recommend introduction and that the Public Hearing and Second Reading be conducted April 12, 2004.
Addition: Memorandum from the Parks and Recreation Commission in objection to the appropriation from the Parks and Recreation Reserve Fund.
Pulled off of this agenda under agenda approval.
C. Ordinance 04-13, Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Accepting and Appropriating Pass Through Funds from the United States Coast Guard
for Additional Berth Modifications to the City of Homer's Pioneer Dock and Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the Appropriate Documents.
Finance. Fiscal Note: Revenue and Expenditure: 415-914, $350,000.00. Recommend introduction and that the Public Hearing and Second Reading
be conducted April 12, 2004.
D. Ordinance 04-14, Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska Accepting and Appropriating Two Grants form the State of Alaska Department of Public
Safety in the Amount of $3,200 and $5,000 for Professional Training Services for the Homer Police Department and Authorizing the City Manager to
Execute the Appropriate Documents. HPD. Finance. Fiscal Note: Revenue Acct. 100.4514.030, Expenditure Acct. 100.5603.030. Recommend
introduction and that the Public Hearing and Second Reading be conducted April 12, 2004
Memorandum 04-53, from Chief or Police as backup.
E. Resolution 04-30(S), Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska Awarding the 2004 Bid for City Owned Dredge Spoils to Phukan Inc. of Anchorage, Alaska in the Amount of $6.00 per Cubic Yard for Two Thousand Cubic Yards; to Castaway Park, Youngs of Homer, Alaska in the Amount of $6.00 per Cubic Yard for Two Hundred Fifty Cubic Yards and the English Bay Corporation of Homer, Alaska in the Amount of $5.01 per Cubic Yard for all Remaining Available Materials and Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the Appropriate Documents. P/H. City Clerk. Fiscal Note: Budget Acct. 400.4901.600. Recommend adoption.
Memorandum 04-54, from Port/Harbor Director as backup.
Mayor Cushing noted a conflict of interest and Mayor Pro Tempore Fenske read this item and the recommendation.
F. Resolution 04-31, Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska Authorizing Application for a USDA Community Facilities Loan and Authorizing the
City Manager to Execute all Relevant Documents. City Manager. Recommend adoption.
Memorandum 04-42, from City Manager as backup.
G. Memorandum 04-43, from City Clerk, Re: Travel Authorization for the Mayor's Lobbying Trip to Washington D. C. in March 29-30, 2004 and
for Councilmembers to attend the AML Spring Conference, April 14 and 15. Fiscal Note: Mayor and Council: 2004 Budget: 100.5236.100,
Transportation: $6,500.00 and100.5237.100 current balance is same. Subsistence: $4,500.00 current balance is same. Per Finance on March 16,
2004. Recommend authorization.
Mayor interjected that this was Mayor Pro Tempore Fenske and Councilmember Stark at this time, later Councilmember Yourkowski advised the
Council of his plans to attend.
H. Memorandum 04-44, from City Clerk, Re: Liquor License Renewal for Fresh Sourdough Express. Recommend non objection and approval.
I. Memorandum 04-45, through City Manager, Re: Jeeps R Us Car Rental Airport Lease. Fiscal Note: Estimated $4,000.00 Revenue or $166.50 per month plus 5% of gross sales, lease term is April 1, 2004 to December 31, 2006. Acct. 100.4657.045. Recommend approval.
J. Memorandum 04-46, through City Manager, Re: MOU with NERR, Coastal Impact Assistance (CIAP) Grant, Beach Policy Implementation.
Fiscal Note: Project. 151.748, MOU is for $19,930, fully reimburseable under the CIAP Grant. Recommend approval.
K. Memorandum 04-47, from City Manager, Re: MOU with the Homer Animal Friends and SOS (Support Our Shelter). Fiscal Note: Project
151.728. Recommend approval.
L. Memorandum 04-48, from City Manager, Re: MOU with KBBI regarding the Concert on the Lawn for 2004. Recommend approval
M. Memorandum 04-49, from Public Works, Re: Transmission Main PRV Station Improvements, Design Contract Award
Recommendations/Change Order 1 MG Tank Project. Fiscal Note: Project 215-814, available funds $750,000.00 amount of Change Order is
$53,000.00. Recommend approval.
NOVA/LADD - MOVED FOR THE APPROVAL AND/OR ADOPTION OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE CONSENT AGENDA.
(Item B. removed.)
VOTE: (except Item B.) YES: NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
VISITORS
A. Kachemak Shellfish Growers Association , Re: Spit Facility.
Gary Seims gave a presentation status report by reading his written report into the record, page 137 of the packet.
Highlights: The Kachemak Shellfish Mariculture Association (KSMA) is a local non profit organization that has received a state grant to begin
building an oyster shellfish processing and retail facility. The proposed facility, Harbor Oyster Village Boardwalk, will house a year round business
and provide space for KSMA and the Kachemak Shellfish Growers Cooperative. The facility will furnish retail space to market fresh and value added
Kachemak Bay shellfish to the locals and visitors, will be tourism friendly, have an information center, provide viewing of seafood processing and will
include an oyster bar for sampling. The location being requested from the City is the overslope area west of the Small Boat Harbor, at the corner of
the Spit Road and Freight Dock Road. This is an under utilized, highly visible area with easy access and good parking. Approximately 200 feet of
overslope footage or approximately 8,000 square feet are needed for the facility that will include a wrap around deck. The proposed project, a
nostalgic old Alaskan Cannery Boardwalk style facility, is aesthetically pleasing and blends into the picturesque setting of the harbor. KSMA is
requesting a long term lease agreement. KSMA is appreciative for all of the community support for the mariculture experiment that has become an
economically viable industry for Homer. There is a growing demand, around the world, for the Kachemak Bay "world class" oysters and mussels.
KSMA's mission Is to provide a fresh, high quality product to the local market, build a sustainable economic mariculture industry in an
environmentally exemplary manner, while providing local jobs and tax revenue.
There was a brief question and answer period.
Council asked if the KSMA were exempt from sales tax and property tax.
Mr. Seims advised that the grants are received through KSMA, that the space will be leased to the Kachemak Shellfish Growers so sales will go
through the Cooperative and are taxable sales. The facility will belong to the KSMA, which will lease out to other entities. He stated that he is not
sure how the property tax will work in this regard.
B. Homer Foundation
Joy Steward reported on the Homer Foundation's administration of the City allocated funds and commended the City for the vision of building their
endowment fund as a long term solution for non profit funding: $40,000.00 was allocated to the Homer Foundation: $20,000.00 was directed to the
City of Homer endowment fund and $20,000.00 directed to be distributed through the City of Homer grants program. Awarded:$8,500 went to
Homer Council on the Arts, $5, 000.00 to Bunnell Street Gallery, $5,000.00 to Homer Senior Citizen's Center and $5,000.00 to the Center for
Alaskan Coastal Studies. The Foundation used $1,260.00 of their unrestricted fund.$2,240.00 earnings from the City's endowment fund. (Members:
Ann Keffer, Chair, Mary Epperson, Bonnie Jason (Trustees), Gary Thomas, Margaret Guldseth and Sue Mauger (Community members at large).)
ANNOUNCEMENTS/PRESENTATIONS/BOROUGH REPORT/COMMISSION REPORTS
Planning Commission Chair, Bill Smith, answered some questions of the Council regarding Ordinance 04-11, with the assistance of the Mayor.
Clarification was made that the buildings may be larger than the cap on a lot, the business size may be limited. The size limitation is pointed solely on
retail and wholesale business, this does not mean foot print, it means the total square footage. Uses may be conglomerated in a building. Buildings do
not have to be one story, in fact, the Design Manual encourages people to work with the terrain and to build a structure that best fits. Ordinance
04-11 encompasses a range of issues that goes beyond wholesale and retail, because the Commission started with the document that the Large Store
Impact Task Force recommended to look at such as traffic impacts. The Commission took a fair and balanced approach based on the Task Force
recommendations. The building standards apply to all buildings.
PUBLIC HEARING(S)
A. Ordinance 04-10, Of the City Council of Homer, Appropriating $37,800.00 from the General Fund Police Department Fleet Reserve for the
Purchase of Two Patrol Vehicles for the Police Department. Finance. HPD. Fiscal Note: Expenditure from Acct. 152-382, HPD Fleet Reserve
$37,712.00. (First Reading March 8, 2004, Public Hearing and Second Reading March 22, 2004.)
There was no public testimony.
STARK/FENSKE - MOVED TO ADOPT ORDINANCE 04-10 BY READING OF TITLE.
Council noted that this is a good addition to the fleet and these vehicle were available only in the lower 48.
VOTE :YES: NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
B. Ordinance 04-11, Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska Amending Homer City Code Chapters 21.32 Definitions, 21.42 Zoning Permit, 21.48
Central Business District, 21.49 General Commercial 1 District, 21.50 General Commercial District 2, 21.52 Marine Commercial District, 21.53
Marine Industrial District, 21.61 Conditional Use Permits, Adding Sections 21.61.105 Requirements for Large Retail and Wholesale Development
More Than 15,000 Square Feet in Area, and 21.61.110 Standards for Traffic Impact Analysis. Planning Commission as directed by Mayor and
Council. (First Reading March 8, 2004, Public Hearing March 22, 2004, Second Public Hearing and Second Reading April 12, 2004.).
B.1. Resolution 04-, Community Design Manual, follows with Ordinance for public hearing and scheduled for adoption on April 12, 2004.
B.2. Proposed fee schedule amendments.
B.3. Proposed amendments to Ordinance 04-11.
Public testimony on all items, B, B1, B2 and B3.
Mayor Cushing announced that there would be a time limit and the Council agreed that it would be set for five minutes. The City Clerk will hold up a
card at five minutes.
Julie Woodward, Chamber of Commerce President, advised that she is speaking on behalf of the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and more specifically their Legislative Committee. She distributed a hand out that is a packet that the Chamber of Commerce (the Chamber) sent to the Planning Commission back in July 2003. She clarified that her comments are not either pro or anti box store and are specifically advocating that a Conditional Use Permit be written in a manner that is an effective tool for investors, developers, review committees and the Planning Commission. She reported that last week the Chamber passed a motion to oppose the proposed Conditional Use Permit Ordinance, specifically 21.61., with a date of February 5, 2004. She informed the Council of the reason for the opposition:
Based on recommendations from the Legislative Committee - last spring after the Mayor's Task Force had adjourned the Legislative Committee reviewed the first draft of recommendations to provide constructive input and to offer the Chamber as a sounding board. The Chamber is a member organization of over 400 Homer Businesses as members. The Chamber provides information to their members via news letter and drafts to worker bee committees. The Chamber spent about 100 man hours reviewing the Document and thoughts and suggestions are compiled in the hand out.
She relayed commendation to the Planning Commission and Task Force for their work, a monumental task. She noted that the Chamber has not heard from the Planning Commission since the letter and so felt it important to highlight the five bullets that are relayed in the correspondence of last summer. The Ordinance should be:
1. Focused, logistical: Traffic impact, utilities, safety, zoning parking.
2. Tiered and proportionate with a mind set that a 70,000 square foot building has more impact than a 17,000 square foot building. Therefore, perhaps the criteria should be in direct correlation to the size of the project.
3. Fair for all industries and all businesses.
4. Precise, remove any ambiguous, vague or subjective language. So that this is not a document that changes with the reader. The Chamber advocates having an effective tool that can really be used for the twenty year horizon of planning Homer.
5. Conditions that are doable and appropriate.
Ms. Woodward relayed that the Chamber felt that this five components were not addressed. This has been marketed as a box store Ordinance and
many businesses do not realize the impact that this Ordinance could have on their business, detrimental impacts with expansion and growth. She asked
that the Council review the Chamber's suggestions and recommendations to have a tool with a long life that is objective, measurable, and a tool for the
future planning of Homer. She thanked the Council for their partnering last spring on the Planning session and thanked them for the opportunity to
speak tonight.
Steve Gibson voiced his thought that it is important for the City to go ahead and pass an Ordinance that definitely includes a size cap, that is, at least,
restrictive as a 30,000 to 35,000. He noted that he would not be unhappy, at all, to see more restraint in terms of size. He advised that his central
motivation goes directly to his interpretation of the flavor and character of the City and the Community. He relayed an NPR story that detailed a study
of book stores in Denver, Colorado and that one of the results of this study was that if there is a major chain store the amount of cash that stayed in
Denver ended up to be about 18% of the gross of the store. Whereas, all of the other book stores in town, not chain owned, had a return of 43%. He
commented that this goes to some extent to further sophisticate some of the economic studies for which the Council has been inquiring. There are
dollars, there are different dollars, amount of taxes, sales tax and property tax are important considerations. He emphasized that the amount of money
that stays in the Community is also important to consider. He thanked the Council.
Richard W. Tyler, "Toby", commented that as the Council is probably aware he has been in Homer almost forever, enough time to get set in his ways,
primarily, quite content with the City as it is and especially since being annexed. He noted that Homer is known as a small drinking town with a fishing
problem, which suggests that the last thing needed is another liquor store. He voiced agreement with most of the Planning Commission's suggestions,
noting that they worked very hard on the building size limitations. He strongly supported sticking with the lowest size suggested. He advised the
Council that he does most of his food shopping at Save U More and Smoky Bay Natural Foods, with an occasional item from Pudgy's. He stated that
he has not purchased anything at Safeway in years and never has set foot in a new Fed Meyers Grocery Store. He expressed his amazement at the
CostCo prices at Save U More, that he cannot grow lettuce or bananas at those prices. Mr. Tyler urged the Council to complete Greatland Street to
Pioneer Avenue. He declared his distrust for Fred Meyers' caring about the quality of life in Homer, particularly when it is so obvious that Homer does
not need another grocery store or liquor store.
Gaye Wolfe, Diamond Ridge resident with two businesses and property, told the Council that she does not even go north of Anchor Point, if she does
not have to and that she thinks Homer will be short changed if it does not stay a small town with incredibly unique people and environment. She
commented that she does drive to Anchorage periodically, will pick up some cat food at Fred Meyers and that it upsets her to no end to think about
something like that here, in this town, that it would ruin what is here that is just too precious to everyone. She stated that there are so many issues to
talk about, all been well written about in some of the letters in Council's packet, particularly the Marla McPherson and Lee Post letters, which touch
on, pretty much, every side of the issue from different perspectives. She pointed out that too many people have put in too much time, this is over a
year that people have sat and talked about this. She emphasized that the concept, design and theory have come such a long way and this is not the
time to second guess what and where this is going. She relayed that it has been eight or ten years that the Town Center has been talked about, with
the history and economics of this community. She encouraged support of those people who have put their hearts and souls into this community and
who want to continue to keep their hearts and souls here. She emphasized that she loves it here and would hate to see it happen.
Jenny Stroyeck, owns a business in the Central Business District, reiterated her position on this issue, that she definitely supports the cap, even more
so, the work of the Task Force and Planning Commission on the standards. She noted that the cap is an easily identifiable red flag and is easy for
people to get on one side or other of that issue. She noted that the real value is the standards, regardless of what happens. She rhetorically inquired if
Homer really needs a Fred Meyer that looks like the one in Soldotna, when Homer can have trees, a nice parking, and maybe some benches to sit on?
She relayed that she does hear constantly from people who visit Homer from Soldotna and Kenai, how much they enjoy the shopping in Homer and
the natural food store? She pointed out that she has never heard that these people come to Homer to go to Safeway. She expressed a wonder at
people who come to Homer to get away from the place they left and then want to make Homer like the place they left. She thanked the Council.
Dotti Harness, lives off Diamond Ridge out of City limits, said that she would like to encourage the Council to adopt and support the Planning
Commission's recommendations. She noted that the Commission has put a lot of time, research and thoroughness into what encompasses the
wholesale and retail size restraints for all of the districts. She commented on the inclusion of traffic, landscaping, signage, architecture, lighting, storm
water, erosion control and the lack of clear cutting. She emphasized to the Councilmembers that it is imperative that they support locally owned
businesses to ensure that Homer's small town uniqueness is not lost to the national brand identities. She further emphasized that as elected
Councilmembers it is also vital for the Council to embrace the volunteer Commissions. She thanked the Council.
Stuart Schmutzler, noting that this is a first for him, commented that he has been listening to these meetings for the last 22 year, from the privacy of
his own home. He shared a concern, over the years, that quite often there is overwhelming public testimony going one direction and the Council
arrives at a decision that is 180 degrees counter to that. He commented about some of the Councilmembers who have private conversations
throughout the week and that they give more impetus to that type of input rather than the public input at these meetings. He voiced his opinion that
the democratic process is that the people elected the Council to make decisions for them, when a decision is large enough that Council seeks more
information, Council welcomes information from the public, who Council works for and represents, and the public has concerns over the community.
He recalled that the Council has solicited the help from their Planning Commission, these are volunteer positions, and Council has asked these people
to really focus in on this one topic. He recognized that the Commission came back to the Council with conclusions and that they really studied this
topic. He acknowledged how busy the Council is and that the Council has a lot of decisions on a lot of different categories. He asked the Council to
be really honest with the information that they are getting from the public and from the Planning Commission and to follow the recommendations. He
encouraged the Council to listen. He said that he had a couple of letters that did not get into the publication and asked that they go into the next
week's. He thanked the Council.
Michele Waneka, first meeting, voiced concern and echoed what Mr. Schmutzler just said. She voiced support of the Planning Commission
recommendations and findings from all of their hard work and support of local business over large corporate businesses, such as Fred Meyer and box
store businesses in general. She told the Council that she would not be unhappy if she did not see a box store here at all, that she and her family have
not missed it and would continue to not miss it. She voiced her opinion that a positive future for Homer involves a really conscious plan for building
standards, size standards, design standards, and following the recommendation given so far, and the testimony given so far, here, tonight. She
encouraged the Council to all listen very closely to that and thanked the Council.
Al Waddell advised that he is a City resident on the corner down there where good old Fred Meyers was hoping to relocate and not on the CIRI land
with the town square. He reported that Fred Meyer felt it would be better situation down there where the land is level and would accommodate a
good sized store there. He commented on having another meeting to talk about this and commended the Chamber of Commerce for sitting down and
hitting the Ordinance right on the head of the nail with a hammer. He agreed that there has to be conditions, variances, interjecting that the Courts
have it and when someone gets mugged, beat, killed or whatever, the Judge has the right to commute, change, alter or whatever, the sentence, not
necessarily what is on the books. He pointed out that is the reason for a conditional or a variance. As one of the largest property owners in the Central
Business District, Mr. Waddell expressed his feeling that he should have some rights, at the same time, for developing his six acres. He voiced
resentment of the situation that some of those rights may be taken away and may make him have to sell part of this property that has been in his family
since 1953. He commented about people here in Homer, gift wise, must be driving on up to Soldotna, Kenai and Anchorage for their cat food and
gifts since he does not see them in his store, not that they ask people to come in a shop in their store. He voiced disagreement that people shop here as
much as everyone is saying they do. He told the gentlemen of the Council that this is all that he had to say and thanked them.
Sue Butler, twenty year resident, commented on sitting quietly and being frustrated about a lot of the changes, voiced recognition that changes have
to come, but the size of the stores should be limited. She told the Council that she has always shopped locally and tries to support all of her friends.
She shared her belief of keeping the town intimate, friendly and that she likes the idea of it being a local, small town where one knows and cares about
people, their store and how they are doing. She concluded that it is hard to see this store coming in, that she is okay with it as long as the Council
keeps it small and that she will try to get used to the idea.
Scott Adams commented on being here a few times and listening to what has been going on with the standards. He stated that he has a few problems
with the standards of traffic input, in fact, because this town is a one road in and one road out. He voiced his opinion that eventually the town, itself, is
going to have too much traffic, noting that the Council already worries about the tourists, summertime and the locals. He observed that this thing is
about box stores, or large stores, and branches off to other directions. He relayed discussions with the Planning Department, who had informed him
that such things as schools, libraries, City Council, multi purpose rooms, ice rinks were not going to be involved in this, but now it seems like
everything is coming together. He expressed his thought that this should be held to large retail and wholesale and everything else underneath the
conditional permit. He noted the size of some of the stores in town: Safeway at 30,000 square feet, Lakeside Mall at 32,000 square feet, Kachemak
Center at 51,000 square feet, SBS at 19,000 and 14, 000 square feet, the Gear Shed at 36,000 and Save U More at 21,000 and 23,000 square feet. He
emphasized that the majority of these are local businesses and some of these people might want to enlarge or knock down their buildings and build a
new building. He encouraged the Council to watch who they are stepping on, because those are some of the local businesses. He thanked the Council.
Sharon Whytal, City resident, commented that she had put in written comments for the last packet and that it was pointed out to her that it would also
be good to speak to some of the points that she mentioned. She voiced appreciation for the work of the Planning Commission, that she likes the idea
of the 20,000 square foot limit and can live with 30,000 or 35,000 square feet. She voiced hope that the Council will pay close attention to the
community and economic impact analysis, that she thinks there already are different traffic patterns and hoped that whoever the City hires to mitigate
those kind of changes will take into consideration that people do not want to raise taxes to pay for new roads or new traffic patterns. She advised the
Council that she called Fred Meyers and was told that the base salary starts at $8 per hour. She intimated that $8 per hour is insufficient and that she
has to spend a lot of her income on her house payment. She suggested that the Council, when thinking about new jobs, consider how many of these
are going to be $8 per hour and how many of these are going to be full time with benefits. She voiced concern about some of the information coming
out about WalMart and that 50% of their employees are eligible for public assistance. She said it concerns her that the City will be creating a larger
lower class at the same time that President Bush is threatening to cut the section eight vouchers that affects a large portion of Homer residents in low
income housing. She emphasized the importance of the economic analysis, which is not very specific in the document. She thanked the Council.
David Raskin told the Council that he rushed here to put in his two cents worth, that he lives just outside the City and has been here since 1975. He
thanked the Council and particularly the Planning Commission and Task Force for all of the hard work they have done and for putting together a very
comprehensive package. He advised the Council that he conducts his business all over the United States, Canada, Europe and further and that he
brings that money here and spends it here in Homer. He emphasized that Homer is a very special place, that he and his wife have lived in many parts
of the United States and have spent a great deal of time in many other countries. Although it sounds trite, he noted that there is no other place like
Homer, this is a place that has amenities and people activities that are unique. He pointed out that everyone who comes here recognizes these qualities
and that is why they keep coming back and why they settle here and why they love this place. He asserted that people do not love Homer because of
strip malls, business streets lined with ugly signs, or huge stores, wherein one can save a penny or two, such as WalMart or Fred Meyers, but because
it is a very, very special place with art, biology, intellect, writers and so many things that have attracted people here. He shared his and his wife's
reason for staying here, that it is because it is Homer and that Homer has needs to be protected for everyone. He voiced disdain with the short sighted
and fool hearty notion of making a quick dollar by selling some land and bringing in an outside corporation that will pay starvation wages and take
most of that money outside the community. He suggested, to those who say that they have been here all their lives and say that these big stores are
needed, that they go somewhere else and look and that if they did they and if they thought about it they would realize that what the Planning
Commission has been doing for Homer is something that needs to be done to protect Homer. He urged the Council to take the advise of those
professional people, and of those who have worked hard over the year and all the public comments to protect what Homer has, so that it does not
become another series of ugly and not well serving the establishments and life style that is in Homer.
Donna Rae Faulkner voiced appreciation for and echoed all that David Raskin said, noting that she has been here before. She advised the Council that
she is taking time away from the tile saw, that she and her partner are building a new home and that they are City residents and both have businesses
inside the City. She noted that they are living in Homer and building their life in Homer, because they love Homer. She testified that they would hate
to see large retail businesses come in and change Homer in all sorts of negative ways. She highly urged the Council to support the Planning
Commission's report and to keep Homer the wonderful, unique place that it is. She thanked the Council.
Mayor Cushing called for a recess at 8:20 p.m., reconvening the meeting at 8:375 p.m.
ORDINANCE(S)
A. Ordinance 04-05, Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, to Authorize the Expenditure of Homer Accelerated Roads Program (HARP) Funds for
the Surveying, Engineering and Design of Waddell Way Improvements. City Manager. Public Works. Fiscal Note: Expenditure from HARP
$103,440.00. (First Reading on March 8, 2004 postponed to March 22, 2004 Main Motion is on the floor, Public Hearing and Second Reading
April 12, 2004.)
Memorandum 04-17, from Public Works as backup.
Main Motion, as Postponed, is on the Floor: FENSKE/LADD - MOVED FOR THE INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCE 04-05 BY READING
OF TITLE.
YOURKOWSKI/FENSKE - MOVED TO POSTPONE 04-05 TO NEXT MEETING. (April 12, 2004.)
The purpose for postponement is to provide the Administration time to talk to the property owners involved. The administration was asked to also
consider the aerial power line, the three phase line that provides power for the Spit and that there be an environmental evaluation or status of this land,
specifically regarding PCBs. There was a comment that if the project does include the roadway from Waddell to Heath Street that it either be named
Grubstake or Smoky Bay Way rather than just keep it Waddell Way and make the name make some sense. The administration is to answer the
question if HARP can be used to construct a new road.
Postponement pros and cons were discussed at length.
NOVAK/ - CALL FOR THE QUESTION.
VOTE: (question) NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
VOTE: (postponement) YES: NON OBJECTION. NON OBJECTION.
Motion carried..
B. Ordinance 04-15, Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, to Authorize the Expenditure of Homer Accelerated Water and Sewer Program
(HAWSP) Funds for the Surveying, Engineering and Design of Waddell Way Water and Sewer Improvements. City Manager. Public Works. Fiscal
Note: Expenditure from HAWSP $43,080.00. (First Reading March 22, 2004, Public Hearing and Second Reading April 12, 2004.)
Same backup as with Ordinance 04-05.
STARK/NOVAK - MOVED FOR THE INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCE 04-15 BY READING OF TITLE.
STARK/NOVAK - MOVED TO POSTPONE THREE WEEKS. (April 12, 2004)
Pros and cons of postponement were discussed at length. It was noted that a decision has to be made on Ordinance 04-05 and alternate A. or B. chosen.
VOTE: (postponement) YES: NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
A. City Manager's Report (Updates and Follow up, Memoranda from the Parks and Recreation Commission regarding the Land Bank Reserve and
Karen Hornaday Hillside Park, Letter from Lou Stewart regarding Karen Hornaday Hillside Park and Port/Harbor Advertisement.)
B. Record Report (Annual report required by Code)
Discussion included:
It would be good if comments or questions were submitted for the April 13th economic forum regarding the Long Range Fiscal Planning
Worksession, with Economist Scott Goldsmith.
City Manager Wrede said that he would compile a list of questions and comments and that he would send this out to the Council for input. He advised
that DOT should be issuing the contract for Bartlett/Hohe, that there is a question regarding an oil separator and that as far as the City knows this
project is still on schedule. He informed the Council that the utility issue with UA Kachemak Bay Campus is being worked out.
Other items mentioned regarding the Kachemak Bay College expansion: That the power line will be placed underground. That the City is insisting on,
at least, a 30 foot easement. This easement will be off set behind the length of the building across the parking. The site development is going to consist
of an addition of 9,400 square foot onto the west end, a two level with the lower level, 4,000 square feet, partially finished and the upper level, $3,400
square feet, totally finished. The parking is going to go away on the Pioneer Avenue side and will be landscaped into a walk in entry and the parking
and main entrance will be moved to the south side of the facility. The Legislature passed an appropriation for the UA Kachemak Bay Campus that was
$500,000.00 and was supposed to be $1.2 million. The City was asked for support of the $1.2 million
Mayor Cushing noted that there are about five Council supporting Resolutions, already passed, that should suffice.
COMMITTEE REPORT
A. Road Standards Committee. March 2 meeting synopsis. Meeting held on March 16.
Councilmember Yourkowski gave an over view of the March 2nd meeting, that they reviewed goals and objectives of the Transportation Plan and
made recommendation regarding the repaving project with pedestrian/bike pathways. He noted that a meeting is scheduled for tomorrow night, March
23rd..
B. Town Center Development Committee. February 26 synopsis. Meeting held on March 18.
Councilmember Novak gave an over view of the March 18th meeting and announced that the next meeting is April 15th at 6 p.m. (1) Discussed were
future design plans, utilizing a Charrett process to refine design ideas similar to the University of Washington Students' proposals, inviting a design
architect the next Saturday, March 17th, from Anchorage for a professional point of view on what can be done. He responded to Council query that
the Committee would be happy to keep the Council apprized.
Councilmember Fenske reported on the Kachemak Bay Campus, College Council meeting and encouraged the Council to recognize the College's need
for more space. Currently the College has 17,000 square feet and with the addition will have 17,000 square feet and will still need some lease
arrangement for the other facility. He urged the Council to be supportive and that the greater presence the College can have in Homer the bigger
argument there is with the Board of Regents and the Legislature to expand the campus.
Councilmember Stark relayed University President's, General Hamilton, comment last week in Homer that UA is $1.2 million short on the building of
the new facility in Homer.
PENDING BUSINESS
A. Memorandum 04-38, from Public Works Director, Re: HARP Funds for Repaving Roads. Postponed on March 8 to March 22, 2004 Regular
Meeting. Main motion is on the floor.
Recommendation: Expend an amount "not to exceed" $500,000.00 this fiscal year from the Homer Accelerated Roads Program (HARP) for the
design & construction to include grinding up the existing asphalt and repave the streets as identified on spread sheet two. Costs are estimated:
Bayview Avenue - $51,180.71; Ben Walters Lane - $76,812.54. Kachemak Way - $69,239.50. Main Street - $68,074.42; Rochelle Road -
$39,063.84. New Pave Heath Street from Pioneer Avenue to Homer High School - $17,973.09.
Memorandum 04-50, from Public Works.
Recommendation: Appropriate $600,000.00 this fiscal year from the H.A.R.P. fund for the design & construction to include grinding of the existing
asphalt and repave the streets as identified with the expanded pavement width to accommodate inclusion of the 4' wide pedestrian walkway.
Main Motion, as Postponed, is on the Floor: FENSKE/LADD - MOVED FOR THE APPROVAL OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF
MEMORANDUM 04-38.
There was discussion regarding reducing the lane size and expanding the pedestrian walkway. There was concern expressed regarding the use of
HARP funds and that there needs to be some mechanism for another revenue source that will not dip into the funds needed for projects like Waddell
Way and new construction.
LADD/YOURKOWSKI - MOVED TO SUBSTITUTE MEMORANDUM 04-38 WITH MEMORANDUM 04-50 AND ITS RECOMMENDATION
Council agreed that safe pedestrian pathways are necessary.
Councilmember Stark recalled that Dan Burden, Walkable Communities, had advised that a ten foot lane slows traffic.
Most of the concern expressed regarding pedestrian safety was about Main Street and Kachemak Way.
Mayor Cushing expressed his preference for a 27 foot paved surface, a nine and a half foot travel lane, if any kind of traffic analysis or person can
justify it, and have a seven or eight foot pedestrian travel lane. He noted that there would be a lot more pedestrians using the pathway once it becomes
like Ocean Drive, where pedestrians have a sense of isolation being 8 feet away from industrial high speed traffic. He voiced his opinion that this
would put this community miles ahead and will be a tremendous asset.
Discussion ensued.
VOTE:(primary amendment 1. ) YES: NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
FENSKE/NOVAK - MOVED TO AMEND THE MOTION AT THIS TIME TO INCREASE THE PEDESTRIAN WAY FROM FOUR TO
SEVEN FEET AND DECREASE THE TRAVEL LANE WIDTH TO TEN FEET.
Discussion ensued pro and con and on whether or not the Council has enough information to make this decision.
Mayor Cushing asked if the Council wanted to see this walkway as wide as possible. The Public Works Director is to report back to the Council
regarding feasible walkway widths.
Council concurred.
VOTE:(primary amendment 2.) NO OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
NOVAK - CALL FOR THE QUESTION.
Mayor Cushing asked if there were a second and did not recognize the motion.
STARK/ - ASKED FOR UNANIMOUS.
Mayor Cushing did not recognize the motion.
VOTE: (main motion as amended) YES: NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
NEW BUSINESS
A. Memorandum 04-51, from City Manager and Councilmember Novak, Re: Amending the Long Range Fiscal Planning Schedule. (To be
submitted by meeting)
There is no Recommendation, the entire memorandum is to be considered: This proposed amendment to the planning schedule attempts to
incorporate some of the discussions the Council has had recently about how the planning process should proceed. After a great deal of discussion
(Councilmember Novak, the Chamber of Commerce, Scott Goldsmith, and myself) about dates that would work, we have settled on Tuesday, April
13th as the day for our meeting with Scott Goldsmith. The schedule below reflects that and adjusts the remainder of your adopted schedule and work
tasks accordingly.
Monday, April 12th: Worksession cancelled. There would still be the Committee of the Whole at 4 p.m and Regular Meeting at 7 p.m
Tuesday, April 13th: 9 a.m. to Noon and 1:30 to 4 p.m.: Public Forum on Economic Development and Long Term Fiscal Planning jointly sponsored
by the Homer City Council and the Homer Chamber of Commerce. Scott Goldsmith is featured guest.
Monday, April 26th: Worksession from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.: Staff presents Council with a draft long range fiscal plan for review and discussion. The
Plan will be on the regular agenda for Council take action. A public hearing will be set for May 10th.
Monday, May 10th: Public Hearing. A resolution is included on the Agenda for adoption of the Fiscal Plan. Final adoption could take place at this
meeting or the Council could extend the process if it determines more time is needed.
NOVAK/FENSKE - MOVED TO APPROVE MEMORANDUM 04-51 RECOMMENDATIONS.
Councilmember Novak reviewed the schedule.
Council commented about the amount of work the Council has scheduled for April 12th and that there are some Councilmembers going to the AML
Spring Conference on April 14th and 15th. Preference was expressed for a working lunch. Advertising requirements were noted.
Councilmember Fenske advised that he will miss the April 26th meeting and probably the May 10th meeting.
Discussion ensued.
City Manager Wrede responded to the Council inquiry regarding a Fiscal Note, that he did offer to pay for Scott Goldsmith's plane ticket.
VOTE: YES: LADD, YOURKOWSKI, STARK. NOVAK.
NO: FENSKE.
Motion carried.
RESOLUTIONS
A. Resolution 04-13(A), Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska Providing Input to the Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly Regarding the Borough
Comprehensive Plan. Ladd. Postponed on February 23, 2004, to get additional input from the Commissions, main motion is on the floor as amended.
Ladd.
Main motion as amended and as postponed is on the floor: LADD/STARK - MOVED FOR THE ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION 04-13 BY
READING OF TITLE.
NOVAK/STARK - MOVED TO AMEND AND ADD ITEM12, THAT WOULD STATE THAT THE KENAI PENINSULA BOROUGH
ESTABLISH A PERMITTING PROCESS TO REVIEW ANY CONSTRUCTION ON THE SHORELINE OF COOK INLET AND KACHEMAK
BAY FOR THE PURPOSE OF STABILIZING THE BEACH OR THE BLUFF FACE ALONG THE SHORELINE.
The purpose of this amendment is the outgrowth of the conference last week addressing erosion along the face of the bluff and the structures that
some people have placed on the bluff with the ensuing effect to other properties.
LADD/YOURKOWSKI - MOVED TO CHANGE THE WORD CONSTRUCTION TO DEVELOPMENT.
There was no discussion.
VOTE: (secondary amendment) YES: NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
VOTE:(primary amendment 1 as amended) YES: NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
Item 12. now reads: That the Kenai Peninsula Borough establish a permitting process to review any development on the shoreline of cook inlet and
Kachemak Bay for the purpose of stabilizing the beach or the bluff face along the shoreline.
YOURKOWSKI/ NOVAK - MOVED TO AMEND RESOLUTION 04-13(A)ITEM NUMBER 5. TO READ: THAT THE KENAI PENINSULA
BOROUGH REQUIRE DEVELOPERS TO CONSTRUCT ROADS TO BOROUGH STANDARDS AND TO PROVIDE PEDESTRIAN
CONNECTORS PRIOR TO FINAL RECORDING OF THE SUBDIVISION PLAT.
Mayor Cushing noted that this amendment basically incorporates the wording suggested by the Parks and Recreation Commission.
Councilmember Yourkowski affirmed, adding that it also includes the Planning Commission recommendation.
STARK/NOVAK - CALLED FOR THE QUESTION.
VOTE:(call for the question) YES: NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
VOTE:(primary amendment 2.) YES: NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
Councilmember Stark objected to Item 10. That the KPB and the City of Homer enter into an "area of city impact agreement" to promote the orderly
development of land within one mile of Homer City limits. Because land in the area of "city impact" is in direct proximity to the City of Homer, it is an
area in which growth and development is expected to occur and have future impact on the City of Homer. Proposed changes to the Kenai Peninsula
Borough Comprehensive Plan would include a proposed "impact area" surround the City of Homer where management of land uses is jointly
approved by the Homer City Council and the Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly.
VOTE:(main amended motion) YES: NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
B. Resolution 04-24, Of the City Council Approving the City of Homer 2004 Land Allocation Plan. Mayor and Council. Postponed to next meeting,
March 22, 2004.
Memorandum 04-52 from Planning, as presented on March 8th, Committee of the Whole.
Main motion, as postponed, is on the floor: FENSKE/BECK - MOVED FOR THE ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION 04-24.
YOURKOWSKI/LADD - MOVED TO AMEND RESOLUTION 04-24 TO ADD A BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT THE COUNCIL
ACCEPTS THE RECOMMENDATION OF MEMORANDUM 04-52.
Direct the Homer Advisory Planning Commission and staff to rezone portions of Beluga Slough and Mud Bay areas into conservation districts as
recommended in the Comprehensive Plan, and in compliance with land purchases related to EVOS. These areas such as publicly owned lands are
specifically discussed in the Comprehensive Plan.
The Lillian Walli Estates Subdivision off of West Hill Road and the Sterling Highway presents some challenges for the City. The Council directed staff
to work with Parks and Recreation to identify a lot to keep as a park. Staff recommends this decision wait until more wetlands information is
available. Staff further recommends the Council direct the administration to work on a solution to the subdivision development agreement for this
subdivision. This agreement prevents any development from occurring until all lots are fully served by infrastructure installed at the landowner's
expense. This is a complicated issue and one that will affect other subdivided but undeveloped areas of the City. Staff requests time to create a policy
that is fair and equitable.
Direct staff to work on resolving any restrictions on the park in the Emerald Highland Estates Subdivision so that the City can move forward and
develop the park.; and
VOTE: (primary amendment 1.) YES: NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
The leaseable lots were discussed.
FENSKE/NOVAK - MOVED TO ADD TO THE PROPERTY AVAILABLE FOR LEASE, LOTS 20 THROUGH 25, RECOMMENDATIONS
DISCUSSED FOR LOT 8D-1, TO MAKE THIS INTO SMALLER LOTS AND WITH CONDITIONS NOTED.
Mayor Cushing clarified that Tract 1A and Lots 31 - 33 are already designated for lease.
It was noted that the conditions regarding the Overslope Development that might occur in at the lot 31-33 area and the need for a fifteen to twenty
foot vehicle/pedestrian right of way and access is part of the conditions of the motion.
There was discussion regarding leaseable lots.
FENSKE/LADD - MOVED TO AMEND TO ADD LOTS 10 - 4 ON OUTER DOCK ROAD AND FREIGHT DOCK ROAD.
There was discussion regarding the possibilities involved with these lots.
Mayor Cushing asked for the Council to provide input regarding type of lease and length of lease.
Council stated that it depends on the business.
NOVAK/LADD - MOVED TO AMEND THE TO LOTS 4, 5 AND 6.
Councilmember Novak suggested that to run this whole thing by the Port and Harbor Commission as far as what else they envision for the rest of the
area and then go on from there and if there is good reaction on those we can grab some more, but we'll have some more.
Councilmember Fenske expressed concern such as with the Barge Ramp area, near lot 3.
NOVAK/FENSKE - FRIENDLY AMENDMENT: CHANGE TO LOTS 6, 7, AND 8.
There was no objection to the friendly amendment.
Interjection to the amendment was that Lots 1 and 2 be retained for parking.
VOTE:(amendment, with friendly amendment to secondary amendment 1)YES: NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
SECONDARY AMENDMENT NOW READS. MOVED TO AMEND TO ADD LOTS 6, 7 AND 8 ON OUTER DOCK ROAD AND FREIGHT
DOCK ROAD.
City Manager Wrede asked for clarification regarding the request for input from the Port/Harbor Commission.
Council's response was that they would like input from the Commission regarding zoning and use issues.
Discussion ensued.
STARK/FENSKE - MOVED FOR THE CALL FOR THE QUESTION.
VOTE: (call for the question) YES: NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
VOTE:(secondary amendment 1. as amended)YES: STARK, NOVAK, FENSKE, YOURKOWSKI.
NO: LADD.
Motion carried.
There was no further discussion.
Primary amendment as amended now reads: To add to the property available for lease, Lots 20 through 25, recommendations discussed for Lot 8D-1,
to make this into smaller lots and with conditions noted and to add Lots 6, 7 and 8 on Outer Dock Road and Freight Dock Road.
VOTE:(primary amendment 2. as amended.) YES: NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
VOTE:(main amended motion) YES: NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.
Motion carried.
COMMENTS OF THE AUDIENCE
Audience comments upon any matter.
Al Waddell commented that on packet page 155 wherein it states that, Whereas the Commission considered property rights throughout the zoning
districts and how the proposed standards and size limitations might create or cause undo hardship or loss to property owners. He emphasized to the
Council that no single person from Planing and Zoning or any place else has sent him a letter, or contacted him, or tried to call him, that he knows of,
on that situation at all, and wondered what CIRI or Spenard Builders might be looking at on that situation. He expressed his feeling that this is like
taking and suggested that he would like to talk with Mr. Gordon Tans and see what he has to say about it. The next problem, going back to the
wonderful Chamber that stepped up the plate here, made a recommendation, to at least allow a conditional use permit. He noted that the laws are
made to be used with a conditional or variance and that it makes no difference if talking about murder or whatever, Judges can do that and that he
thinks this body should be able to allow that same situation. He expressed the appearance that this is just about Fred Meyer, but it affects all
properties owners in the Central Business District, especially if one has six acres, which he does. He inquired if HEA has given the City an exemption
from the pollution on the Hockey Rink Property, because he guarantees that it is still there. He reported personally witnessing, two years ago, when
Hart Crowser came down to check the wells they took the caps off of three of the wells, lit a match and all three burned. He commented that this was
the first year there was carnival in the Central Business District and that he told those people that it could be there, for free, every single year that he
owns that property. He asked that provisions for carnivals be included. He reported that the kids enjoyed the carnival, that it had been 29 years since
the last carnival and that he cannot say that he made anything due to the carnival, but did receive complements. He encouraged the City Manager and
Councilmember Yourkowski to check their history, regarding Smoky Bay Road and that no road has ever come through that area. He stated that in
the early days, when they did knock down all the trees, 15 or 18 years ago, the area was filled with hippy tents, marijuana pipes and the whole bit. He
advised that he is having quite a problem at his cabins with people drinking, kicking in the doors, breaking in the windows, prying out the screens and
sleeping underneath the porches. He suggested that the new Ice Rink be fully enclosed, after reading about it in the Homer News. He relayed
experience with the transients in that area and about a gentleman with a dog sleeping in his unlocked plow truck. He commended the Council and
Planning and Zoning, but encouraged the Council to have more of a meeting situation. He bid the Council good night and thanked them.
COMMENTS OF THE CITY ATTORNEY
City Attorney Tans was not present.
COMMENTS OF THE CITY CLERK
City Clerk Calhoun had no comment.
COMMENTS OF THE CITY MANAGER
City Manager Wrede had no comment.
COMMENTS OF THE MAYOR
Mayor Cushing noted that it was Monday night, a long meeting, offered thanks and suggested going home.
COMMENTS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
Councilmember Yourkowski commented on looking through the Chamber of Commerce flyer that they gave the Council and noted that all of their
comments seem to be on the Task Force findings and not on the Planning Commission work regarding size limitations and other standards. He said
that he is just kind of confused about their comments tonight. He voiced his opinion that the Ordinance proposed by the Planning Commission is
specific, that it does have graduated standards based on impact and size and that he is not sure that he quite understands the Chambers concern.
Councilmember Fenske noted that at the worksession he mentioned that concern had been made to him by one of the residents up on the hill that
happened to be out at the Pioneer Dock and that they were taking some pictures and had commented why the three strands of barbed wire around the
security gates. He suggested that this is something for the Council to look at and that upon examining the gates himself he did not think there would
be a problem driving a pick up through the closed gates. He wondered what the barbed wire did other than looking really bad. He thanked the
Planning Commission for their work and tonight's testimony.
Councilmember Stark commented that Julie Woodward, the Chamber of Commerce President, did say that the handout was the same handout given
to the Council in June of last year, so it would be from the Task Force. He noted that she also had the six conditions that she felt should be met by the Ordinance.
Councilmember Ladd addressed Julie Woodward's comments that she made at the end that many businesses don't recognize the issue. He voiced his
opinion that businesses do not recognize the issues, because it has gone beyond retail and wholesale. He advised all who are listening that this
Ordinance goes well beyond retail and wholesale and encompasses other large foot prints or buildings within the impacted zones or districts. He stated
that it would behoove everyone to become familiar with this and to come to the next meeting with their concerns.
Councilmember Novak reminded people that the proposed economic conference is April 13th at 9 a.m., that it is open to the public and that there will
be further announcements by the City and the Chamber of Commerce.
Councilmember Stark stated that Ordinance 04-11 is kind of interesting in that it sets up some really good standards that he has advocated for, for the
last sixteen months. He emphasized that it applies to businesses in addition to wholesale and retail, which he has also advocated for the last sixteen
months. He pointed out that the thing that is interesting is that it has all of these requirements and all of these things that have to be done for a major
business to be approved, all of which is good, because it means that the business will really look good when it gets done. He commented on the cap of
30,000 to 35,000 square feet, that anyone coming in at that size would basically not have the economic resources to meet those standards or to go
through the hoop; therefore, the whole thing becomes an exercise in futility. He concluded that if there is a business large enough to have the
economic resources to go through the process and comes out with a really good looking business, then the question is , "Why not?" He voiced his
opinion that it is rather a logical inconsistency.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Council the meeting was adjourned at 10:31 p.m. The next Regular Meeting is scheduled for
Monday, April 12, 2004 at 7 p.m. The next Committee of the Whole meeting, scheduled for Monday, April 12, 2004 at 4 p.m. The meetings are
scheduled to be held in the Homer City Hall Council Chambers located at 491 E. Pioneer Avenue, Homer, Alaska. A worksession with the Homer
Chamber of Commerce and Scott Goldsmith, Economist, on the Long Range Fiscal Plan is scheduled for Tuesday, April 13, 2004 at 9 a.m. location
to be announced. Worksession on Tuesday, April 13th at 9 a.m., at a location to be announced, Re: Long Range Fiscal Planning will be a joint session
with the Chamber of Commerce and Economist Scott Goldsmith will be the presenter.
_____________________________________
MARY L. CALHOUN, CMC, CITY CLERK
Approved: _______________
clerk@ci.homer.ak.us, 235-3130, home number 235-2843.
1. Meeting time has been changed to 5 p.m. due to the conflict with room usage.