Session 00-23, a Regular Meeting of the Homer City Council was called to order at 7:38 p.m. by Mayor Cushing at the Homer City Hall Council Chambers located at 491 E. Pioneer Avenue, Homer, Alaska, and opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.
A worksession was held from 6:00 p.m. to 7:25 p.m. Regarding the 2001 Budget.
PRESENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: CUE, FENSKE, KRANICH, LADD, MARQUARDT, YOURKOWSKI.
STAFF: CITY MANAGER DRATHMAN
CITY CLERK MARY CALHOUN
FINANCE DIRECTOR BAUGH
FIRE CHIEF PAINTER
ACTING PLANNING DIRECTOR GUYTON
PORT/HARBOR DIRECTOR ABBOTT
PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR MEYER
ACCOUNTING SUPERVISOR MACK
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 Substitute pages 231, 232 and 234, Port Tariff Revisions that are attached to the Budget Ordinance 00-32.
City Manager Drathman requested that Memorandum 00-62 be placed on the Regular Agenda.
PUBLIC COMMENTS UPON MATTERS ALREADY ON THE AGENDA
Michael Hawfield stated that he simply wanted to reiterate, in the consideration of the budget for the coming year, the importance of continuing the funding support as financial assistance to the non profits. He pointed out that the non profits are non government organizations that provide community services that are an important part of any community. The money provided from the tax payer base is exceptionally important to the non profit organizations, to the core operations and to the ability to expand what can be done in this community. He noted that the Pratt Museum is one of the largest of the non profits that seeks financial assistance and is a good illustration of the economic impact of a non profit in a community where a large role is played in the visitor industry through the visibility of the museum in attracting visitors to Homer that are coming to this state. He suggested that, because of the museum, visitors decide to stay a little longer in Homer and therefore spend more dollars. He noted that the museum pays sales tax through its gift store. According to Mr. Hawfield the return on every dollar to the museum averages five dollars, and sometimes six dollars through earned income and grants, with most of this staying in this community. He reported that the museum has as many as twenty two jobs in the summer that include high school students, those highly trained individuals that are temporarily out of work and senior citizens. Non profit organizations provide immeasurably for the quality of life in the community through preservation of heritage, keeping records, and providing educational programs. Mr. Hawfield emphasized that the museum is a class act and has received awards of excellence. He urged the Council to please give all due consideration to the funding assistance that the museum and other non profits seek this year, which does make a great difference community wide.
Leon Smith addressed the Council regarding Memorandum 00-62, the request for an HEA aerial line at 2750 Sterling Highway, wherein he currently resides. He apprized the Council that he had gone to the Planning Commission meeting and, as he had with the Planning Commission, he elucidated his efforts, to date, to get the line underground. He relayed the history of this situation, wherein DOT's Project Manager Dennis Faldorf had assured him that the utility; cable, electrical and phone, conduit would be installed at that location; however, only the conduit for a potential future water line was installed. Mr. Smith reported on the conditions found when attempting road bores that failed and the costs involved. He advised that other possibilities were evaluated, found to be impractical and unreasonable especially with the many topographical obstacles such as; ravine areas, extending from the Highland Drive line, the Baycrest property owners' water source area/critical habit for humanity, poor equipment access, trees and other terrain impediments. He emphasized that the solution is an aerial line. He referred to the City Code, Subdivision section, that addresses the issue of waiving the regulation for underground electrical when it is unreasonable or impractical. He pointed out that this subdivision was done in 1954 before statehood. He advised that he would be available to answer any questions of the Council regarding the utilities during the agenda item.
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 regular meeting unapproved minutes of October 23, 2000. Recommend approval.
B. Resolution 00-104, Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska Awarding the Bid for one 4x4 Cab and Chassis Truck with Enclosed Utility Service Body to the Firm of Seekins Ford of Soldotna, Alaska in the Amount of $54,170.00 and Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the Appropriate Documents. HVFD. City Clerk. Fiscal Note: $70,000 was appropriated via Ordinance 00-18. Recommend adoption.
Memorandum from HVFD as backup.
C Resolution 00-105, Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska Amending the Homer Advisory Planning Commission Bylaws. City Manager. Planning Commission. Recommend Adoption.
D. Ordinance 00-33, Of the City Council of the City of Homer, Alaska, Accepting Certain Tax-Foreclosed Property Deeded to the City by the Kenai Peninsula Borough and Determining the Disposition of Parcel 179-280-33. City Clerk. Fiscal Note: Taxes due as of November 15th $5,785.78 with penalty, acct: 100.5233.140. (First Reading 11/27/00, Public Hearing 12/11/00, Second Reading 12/18/00.) Recommend adoption.
E. Resolution 00-106, Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska Certifying Approval for the Application by the South Peninsula Women's Services for a Department of Community and Economic Development, Emergency Shelter Grant FY 2000 in the Amount of $22,400.00 and Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the Appropriate Documents. City Manager. Recommend adoption.
F. Resolution 00-107, Of the Homer City Council Adopting An Alternative Allocation Method for the FY 01 Shared Fisheries Business Tax Program and Certifying that this Allocation Method Fairly Represents the Distribution of Significant Effects of Fisheries Business Activity in the Cook Inlet Fisheries Management Area. Finance. City Clerk. Recommend adoption.
G. Memorandum 00-60, from Mayor, Re: Reappointment of Nancy Lord to the Library Advisory Board and the Appointment of Rose Beck to the Planning Commission. Recommend confirmation.
H. Memorandum 00-62, from City Manager, Re: HEA Aerial Electrical Service Line for 2750 Sterling Highway. Recommend approval.
I. Resolution 00-112, Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska Amending the Homer Advisory Planning Commission Procedures Manual. City Manager. Planning. Recommend adoption.
J. Resolution 00-113, Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska Authorizing a 2000 Dollar Contribution to the Town Square Committee for the Purpose of Completing Preliminary Design Work on the Town Square Project. Yourkowski. Fiscal Note: $2,000 from acct: 100.5210.130. Recommend adoption.
K. Ordinance 00-35, Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Appropriating $46,600.00 from the General Fund Fleet Reserve for the Purchase of Two 4X4 Pickup Trucks with service body from Tony Chevrolet for the Public Works Department and Authorizing the City Manager to make this Purchase. City Manager. Public Works (First Reading 11/27/00, Public Hearing 12/11/00, Second Reading 12/11/00.) Recommend adoption.
Memorandum from City Manager as backup.
MARQUARDT/FENSKE - MOVED THE ADOPTION FOR FIRST READING OF THE ORDINANCES AND THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE CONSENT AGENDA.
Item H. Memorandum 00-62 was placed under New Business as Item A. by Mayor Cushing as requested by City Manager Drathman.
Councilmember Kranich asked that the definition of view scape be clarified in the Planning Department Procedures.
VOTE: YES: FENSKE, LADD, YOURKOWSKI, MARQUARDT, KRANICH, CUE.
Motion carried.
VISITORS
A. Chamber of Commerce Report, Derotha Ferraro
Director Ferraro distributed visitor bags and submitted a written report that she read into the record. Some of the topics reported on were: Website, Winter Carnival, Awards Program, Winter King Salmon Tournament, Marine Trades Committee, North Pacific Volcano Learning Center, Retail Committee, Scholarships, Mixers, Trade Shows, Visitors Center Staff/Airport Brochure Racks, Clean up Day, 4th of July Celebration, Visitor/Relocation Inquiries, Jackpot Halibut Derby, Beautification Awards, EDD - Small Business Counselor, Homer Exposure, Shorebird Festival, Fundraisers, Visitor Guides, Car Raffle, Advertising and Promotion, Presentation on Projects, Programs and how the City of Homer's contribution to the Chambers is used.
ANNOUNCEMENTS/PRESENTATIONS/ BOROUGH REPORT/ COMMISSION REPORTS
Port/Harbor Commission Chair McLay relayed the Commission's desire regarding the Port/Harbor 2001 Budget, specifically that the harbor officer position be funded to facilitate 24 hour harbor coverage.
Kenai Peninsula Borough Assemblyman Moss reported on the last assembly meeting regarding the items that impact the Homer area: $32,000 was appropriated from waste management to assist with the remediation costs of Jack Gist Ball Field. Kachemak Bay Nordic Ski Club was granted a lease for 10 acres at the top of Baycrest to provide a chance to expand and make a good trail head. Tax bills will now go directly to the Spit boardwalk building owners as individuals. There will be a change in the way taxes are structured throughout the borough, personal property taxes will be due at different times, there is an option of paying the first half on August 15th or September 15th, or pay all of the bill October 15th or the second half on November 15. First penalty will be reduced to 5% per half with the annual percentage remaining at 10%. This is more in line with what other boroughs are charging throughout the state. October 15th seems to be a good day for taxes to be due with the permanent dividend fund checks being issued around that time. The Kodiak Island Borough has reported an increase in tax payments with the October 15th date.
City Manager Drathman pointed out that Homer had nominated parking and restrooms facilities at the Baycrest Trail Head on the STIP list. Perhaps the state should be contacted to shift this money to the borough due to the recent lease with the Ski Club. He suggested that he and Assemblyman Moss meet regarding this matter.
Councilmember Yourkowski reported on the Planning Commission and Parks and Recreation Commission input and public comments on the Ordinance about vehicles on the beaches. He stated that there were a lot of good ideas, comments and suggestions. He advised that he will be bringing forward a memorandum on December 11th to create a Policy Task Force to address beach usage.
Mayor Cushing announced that the Parks and Recreation Commission has a special meeting this Thursday night to address the Ordinance about vehicles on the beaches. He also announced that the Council's computer is off line at this time until a new location is identified. The Public Works Director now occupies what was the Council's Office.
PUBLIC HEARING(S)
A. CDBG Grant for South Peninsula Women's Services. (The structure of the following testimony is to facilitate grant requirements.)
Laurentia Chamblee, Director of South Peninsula Women's Services, elucidated the process for requesting this grant of $70,000, that is a 50/50 match. This grant money will be used to build an extension onto the existing building located at 3776 Lake Street. The purpose of this addition is to develop the shelter for victims of domestic violence. Two years ago a grant was applied for and received in the amount of $10,000 for planning and design and provided architectural drawings, electrical plans, topographicals and the necessary building permits from the City. There are twenty programs around the state and all but two have had shelters for fifteen years. The two that do not have shelters are Homer and Seward. The closest shelter for Homer is in Kenai, 82 miles away. Transportation is provided to the client and Kenai is very gracious to provide shelter. South Peninsula Women's Services area population is 14,000, this includes as far north as Clam Gulch and the villages across the Bay. Director Chamblee provided some of the stats from FY 2000:
These stats are all victim related and do not include any of the education programs or the men's program information or the child care assistance program. There is a huge need for a local shelter with the main one being that these victims should not have to be uprooted from their communities nor children removed from their schools. Homer does have safe homes and has had for years. Safe homes are limited to three days and two nights, which is not long enough for most people and many individuals do not wish to go into someone's private home. The shelter would provide a roof and programs to assist the victim(s) in putting the pieces of their lives back together, help them get long term housing, and help the kids recover from the trauma of being in a war zone. Director Chamblee advised that South Peninsula Women's Services is looking forward to being able to offer this basic service in this community. She noted that there is a good bit of support for this program
Mayor Cushing advised that these CDBG funds may be used for different activities. He solicited testimony from any one regarding any other items/projects that may be competing with this project.
Director Chamblee advised that the things that this money can be used for are limited in Homer, because of the criteria that it has to be used for those with 51% below average income. The City of Homer qualifies for certain things and not for others. Low and moderate income persons have to be served and generally are battered spouses or handicap persons, migrant farm workers, elderly persons, homeless persons, and/or illiterate persons. Another criteria is that this is a matching grant, dollar for dollar. This grant is due December 1st.
B. Ocean Drive Bluff Erosion Control.
Chris Newby stated that he is definitely in support of continuing the process of this important project. He relayed that since the last Council meeting he has lost more bluff. He voiced his belief that the price tag and the terms presented to date need a good deal of work and refinement before the final project would be acceptable for himself and probably most of his neighbors. He advised that he has personally contacted a couple of contractors regarding alternatives with the realization that the estimated project cost is based on a COE (Army Corp of Engineers) project on the Spit. The contractors he spoke with suggested a sheet pile structure and two different configurations, a cell type structure similar to what Herndon and Thompson did in their barge basin or a straight Sea Type sheet pile wall similar to what is on the Spit, but tied back. He relayed that Larry Goode got some information from a gentleman in Seldovia. Mr. Newby emphasized that it appears this project could be substantially reduced in cost from the original estimate. He commented that the other real critical variable is financing to make this more reasonable and affordable. He provided the City with this information and voiced his belief that the City Finance Director is aware of the real economic development financing alternative that provides for 5 1/8% long term financing up to forty years, which may be a little far out there, but does demonstrate that funding alternatives are available. Mr. Newby stated that he is not quite sure how the Council will go about doing this, but asked that the City look at some preliminary type engineering to refine and perhaps redo the improvement plan to incorporate some of the lower costs and better financing. He concluded that he does want to see this project move forward and made more affordable.
Burt Barr commented that he thought this a joke or a mistake or that possibly the City Clerk was supposed to send the information out on April 1st. He reported that his two lots, 43 and 44, that are Borough appraised at $8,000 a piece, that there is only 8 feet of usable property, and he is being assessed a quarter of a million dollars for the project. Mr. Barr stated that this does not make good sense, does not know how this came to be started and the only way he could ever use his property is to build a 8' wide building 200 or 300 feet tall, of which FAA would probably object. He rhetorically inquired why would he want to spend a quarter of a million dollars improving something that he will never be able to use. He advised that the map reflects the footage inaccurately and that the bluff is probably at the top of lots 43 and 44. He stated that for him this is ridiculous and that he has spent $15,000 on sewer and water that he will never be able to use. He commented that the property owner adjacent to him is about to lose his junk.
Mayor Cushing briefly explained the LID process.
Paul Hueper stated that he agrees to a certain extent with one of his neighbors about the concern on expense and that there has been some good effort to really address the expense. He noted that one of the local contractors gave them an estimate that reflected, roughly, one third to maybe 40% or so of the initial estimate. He stated that as a citizen with a moderate income he could really afford the last estimate and would equate to about $300 a foot versus $920 or so a foot. He agreed that this is probably a little premature and that a lot of the questions would be answered in engineering. He urged the Council to take a look at this, at actual expenses and take a few steps forward. He voiced his belief that the proper steps have been taken and appreciates the Council jumping on board to assist in getting more research done and that this looks real positive, get estimates in, if the engineers say sheet piling will work and if it looks affordable to the property owners for $2,000 or $3,000 per year. He thanked the Council for the process.
Larry Goode stated that he is in favor of pursuing his matter to see what direction this can go and what kind of financing can be obtained. He relayed that when the property owners received the assessment information for the $900 plus per foot it was obviously clear that it was not affordable. He reported on the research that he and Chris Newby have done, did not know if this had been given to the Council, that they spoke with Finance Director Baugh and emphasized that the quote from Seldovia is 2/3 less than what was sent to the property owners. He stated that he is certainly in favor of continuing this process, see where it leads, see if it is affordable and if the erosion can be stopped.
Vincent Tillion commented that the problem he sees with the approach right now is that it is one citizenship with everyone a member. He pointed out that there are really three groups of people in the area; those who do not have any property left and don't want to spend any money, those who have a curable problem, and those who had a problem that has already been cured. He noted that obviously the two groups of people on the outside are not really interested in spending any money. He voiced his support of tying in or securing this erosion that is in the interest of the neighborhood and the City. He inquired at what point does it become the City's interest?
Is it when the first sewer line is exposed? Is it when the second road to the Spit starts to disappear? Is it when Beluga Lake starts to disappear?
Mr. Tillion noted that there is a tax base issue, it is City land and the property owners pay taxes on it and traditionally governments come in when things are too large for the citizenry. He voiced his belief that his erosion problem is pretty much solved, but still wants this project pursued and does not want to pay for everybody else's cure.
Don McNamara commented that it seems like this is ten years too late for Mr. Barr's property and wished that this project had been started a few years ago. He advised that the pile of junk is his rip rap. He stated that he is in favor of this project moving forward to see if the erosion, mother nature, can be slowed down and thanked the Council for their time.
Mayor Cushing called for a recess at 9:03 p.m., reconvening the meeting at 9:17 p.m.
ORDINANCE(S)
A. Ordinance 00-32, Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Appropriating Funds for the Calendar Year 2001 for the General Fund, the Water Fund, the Sewer Fund, the Port/Harbor Fund, Debt Funds, Capital Reserve Funds (conditional expenditures). City Manager. Finance Director. (First Reading 11/27/00, Public Hearing 12/11/00, Second Reading 12/18/00.) The budget document is separate.
KRANICH/CUE - MOVED FOR THE ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE 00-32 BY READING OF TITLE ONLY.
Non profits were discussed with the intent from most of the Council that there would be non profit funding.
KRANICH/LADD - MOVED TO AMEND PORT HARBOR BUDGET TO REINSTITUTE FUNDING FOR ONE HARBOR OFFICER CONTEMPLATED TO BE REDUCED OR ELIMINATED.
City Manager Drathman inquired if the Council had any suggests on where this funding would come from, although he voiced his belief that the revenues would be realized.
Councilmember Marquardt stated that this funding comes from the Port/Harbor budget and if the budget shows a negative after the amendment, then so be it.
There was general discussion regarding the amendment. Some Councilmembers wanted to wait until after the next budget worksession, November 29th. There was preference stated to not delete funding for trained employees, such as the harbor officer and the importance of having 24 hour coverage.
City Manager Drathman advised that he and the Finance Director would have the information for Council Wednesday night, November 29th Worksession, regarding where the money is coming from.
Mayor Cushing asked for information for the worksession regarding 24 hour harbor officer coverage and what harbors around the state are doing.
VOTE(Primary Amendment): YES: KRANICH, CUE, FENSKE, LADD, YOURKOWSKI, MARQUARDT.
Motion carried.
VOTE(main amended motion) YES: CUE, FENSKE, LADD, YOURKOWSKI, MARQUARDT, KRANICH.
Motion carried.
A.1. Resolution 00-, Of the City Council of Homer, Alaska Revising the Port and Harbor of Homer Terminal Tariff NO. 600. Finance. Port/Harbor. City Clerk. (Follows same schedule as the Budget Ordinance.)
A.2. Resolution 00-, Of the City Council of the City of Homer, Alaska, Amending the City of Homer Fee Scheduled Regarding the Sewer Rates. Finance. City Clerk. (Follows same schedule as the Budget Ordinance.)
CITY MANAGER' S REPORT
A. City Manager's Report.
B. Bid Report, from City Clerk
C. Games of Chance Report by City Clerk.
D. Record Report to City Clerk
COMMITTEE REPORT
PENDING BUSINESS
NEW BUSINESS
A. Consent Agenda Item H. Memorandum 00-62, from City Manager, Re: HEA Aerial Electrical Service Line for 2750 Sterling Highway. Recommend approval.
Recommendation: That the City Council approve the request for approval for an aerial electrical service line for 2750 Sterling Highway. Fiscal Note: NA
KRANICH/CUE - MOVED FOR THE ADOPTION OF THE RECOMMENDATION OF MEMORANDUM 00-62.
There was lengthy discussion pro and con regarding the aerial line.
Mr. Smith reiterated many of his comments under "Public Comments Upon Matters Already on the Agenda" and added specifics and clarifications.
The Mayor and Council noted the importance of making certain that the provision for all utilities, the conduits, are placed during road projects. Specifically mentioned along these lines is the upcoming East Road project.
City Manager Drathman relayed a conversation he had with Duane Parlow, HEA Manager of Administrative Services, who had suggested that this matter be tabled for a while. According to Mr. Drathman, Mr Parlow expressed some concern that the Baycrest Sterling Highway area could end up with a "string of poles" because there are several properties in the same situation. Mr. Drathman suggested that perhaps it is time for HEA to bite the bullet and auger through the roadway. He also advised that City Attorney Tans wants the Council to make findings of fact regarding the aerial line and, if so found, that one of the conditions, unreasonable and/or impractical, does exist as listed in the City Code.
FENSKE/YOURKOWSKI - MOVED TO POSTPONE TO NEXT REGULAR MEETING (DECEMBER 11TH.).
Council asked to hear from HEA regarding boring under the Sterling Highway, how the alternatives are viewed by HEA and the costs to the property owner and HEA. Council stated that they are not sure if the boring or other alternatives are unreasonable and impractical seeing that Council does not know anything about the laying of electrical lines. There was some discussion regarding DOT's potential fiscal responsibility in this matter. Council did express concerns regarding aerial lines and especially aerial lines on the Baycrest/Sterling Highway with aesthetics and safety and that of precedence setting.
Mr. Smith commented on the critical habitat area, non access for equipment and etcetera in the areas adjacent to his property. He responded to a question by the Mayor that use of the water conduit is legal, but he did not feel this was practical with the conduit ten feet deep,. He emphasized that he has made every effort to provide for the aerial line to be as unobtrusive as possible and that he needs to move forward with the installation of electricity for his family.
Mayor Cushing relayed to the Council that Public Works had tried to get the State to put the conduits underground, yet the state had pretty much indicated that if this had to be done then the Baycrest/Sterling Highway project would probably not be done. He pointed out that the City had paid for the City utility conduits to be placed. The administration is to prepare findings and/or conditions for the Council to act on at the December 11th meeting and to meet with HEA regarding the items that Council has brought forward.
VOTE:(postponement) YES: YOURKOWSKI, MARQUARDT, CUE, FENSKE, LADD.
NO: KRANICH
Motion carried.
Mayor Cushing clarified that Leon Smith could be reached through HEA.
RESOLUTIONS (The structure of the action on Resolutions 00-109 and 00-110 is to facilitate grant requirements.)
A. Resolution 00-109, Of the Homer City Council Authorizing a Cooperative Agreement By and Between South Peninsula Women's Services, Inc. and the City of Homer for Participation in the Department of Community and Economic Development Program to Apply for CDBG Grant Funding for Construction of a Shelter for Victims of Domestic Violence. City Manager.
FENSKE/CUE - MOVED FOR THE ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION 00-109 BY READING OF TITLE.
Councilmember Fenske stated that he is very pleased to see this project on line, although it is too bad that it has to be. It is very unsettling for families that have to leave an area in order to feel safe or to be protected in diverse times. He wished the South Peninsula Women's Services the best on this project.
Councilmember Marquardt inquired about the actual shelter and the construction thereof; federal funds or state funds, Davis Bacon wage scale required?
Director Chamblee responded that this is federal money and Davis Bacon wages are required. This money will build the 1,000 square foot addition that is divided into two stories.
Councilmember Ladd inquired if South Peninsula Women's Services offers these services based on need, economic condition or to all women.
Director Chamblee advised that services are offered based on need, they do not discriminate as far as income, this is not just for women it is for everyone and there is no discrimination toward nationality or economic levels. Sometimes the wealthy do require shelter.
Councilmember Ladd voiced agreement with Councilmember Fenske that it is a sad scenario that these services are needed and applauded the South Peninsula Women's Services 100%. Unfortunately this is a part of the times, adding that as a school administrator he does see youngsters that come from situations like this and it is very tragic.
Mayor Cushing noted that the City Council, administration and public did have the opportunity to apply, however, no one else came forward and no other need was brought to anyone's attention.
VOTE: YES: LADD, YOURKOWSKI, MARQUARDT, KRANICH, CUE, FENSKE.
Motion carried.
B. Resolution 00-110, Of the Homer City Council Authorizing Participation in the Community Development Block Grant Program. City Manager.
FENSKE/CUE - MOVED FOR THE ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION 00-110 BY READING OF TITLE.
Councilmembers Fenske and Kranich echoed the same reasons for adopting as noted under Resolution 00-109.
VOTE: YES: FENSKE, LADD, YOURKOWSKI, MARQUARDT, KRANICH, CUE.
Motion carried.
COMMENTS OF THE AUDIENCE.
Dan Winn commented on the new airport parking signage, that he just did not notice, and that his vehicle was towed away. He expressed his opinion that this signage issue sets a tone that the City wants to fight with people. In his opinion the biggest hassle with long term parking is filling out the little sheet, but that can be worked on. He suggested that since this is winter and it is mostly the people who live here that are using the airport. He commented about the snow removal and the biggest problem he has ever seen is with the slick walkways, and within two feet of the curbs. There really is no problem in the parking area other than maybe getting socks wet. He noted that the middle section of the parking area is one hour parking only, on the back side is no overnight parking and there are 52 spots for long term. He relayed some experiences when his son was young with regard to leaving his car as a convenience and that a reasonable amount of time is 24 or 48 hours. He stated that the City is not making any money on the parking fees, however, he emphasized that he is not suggesting that the City raise the rates. He asked the City to review this matter, adding that he really does not care for the signs, and encouraged the Council to make it a little bit easier. He thanked the Council for recommending 24 hour harbor officers and that people could have died over the years without the 24 hour coverage.
City Manager Drathman advised that the policy was reassessed and that a bunch of spaces are going to be added against the bushes on the street side for 48 hour parking. He voiced his concern about the parking lot being slick and someone falling in the parking lot area. If vehicles are in the center area overnight this area cannot be plowed.
Laurentia Chamblee made a follow up statement on Mr. Winn's comments, that she has always wondered why 24 hours are free, but if a person parks in long term the charge is for every day with no break. She thanked all the members of the Council and the Mayor for their help, assistance and cooperation in helping with the building project. She also thanked Sheri Hobbs, Mary Calhoun, and Carey Meyers for their cooperation and helpfulness that just makes the whole process that much easier and better.
Denny Erlandson apologized for not being here during some of the discussions earlier this evening for the worksession. He advised that he sent a letter down to the paper in hopes that it might be published, regarding his concerns over the harbor where he spent six years of his life and where others have spent more. He emphasized that it is a system that works because of the people. The safety of those boats and the livelihood of many fishermen depends on the security of the harbor. He voiced appreciation of Council's actions this evening. He applauded the Mayor and Council for their dedication, hard work and diligence during these times of budget sessions and money. He stated that he saw five budget sessions and they were all difficult. He stated that he still lives here, goes to school in Anchorage, sees the City working hard and the new slogan on the City vehicles, "The City that Works", is really good. He commented that an old friend sent him to the Council, Brother Asaiah Bates, and said, "It's groovy, it's good to be back".
Hank Boelter informed the Council that he is the owner of East End Laundromat and Hank's Water Company. He addressed the Council regarding a letter he has from Public Works Director Meyer that says his water service will be on the Council Agenda. Mr. Boelter asked when his water service would be on the Council Agenda, adding that he has spent $25,000 on a water truck and is waiting. He advised that he emailed this letter to all of the Council. He distributed hard copies to the Mayor and Council. He told the Council that the reason he is here is that, unfortunately, one water company bought out the other water company about nine days after he had fired the water company. The Laundromat uses a lot of water and Mr. Boelter stated that now he is forced to buy water from the company that he fired, not a good position to be in. He reported that he has been doing "this" for about three months, from September 15 to October 15 he used 9,000 gallons and would have saved two thirds of the money if he had been hauling the water himself, for which he has been turned down. Mr. Boelter informed the Council that he formed a corporation so that he would have a customer, the laundromat, and now he has people standing in line for him to deliver water to them.
There was a brief discussion on when this could come to Council. City Manager Drathman stated that he would get with the Public Works Director and get this to the Council no later than the first meeting in January.
Mr. Boelter voiced appreciation for whenever the City/Council can get to this matter.
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 Drathman reminded the Council and public that from 4-6 p.m. on Thursday, November 30th the DOT regional planners will be in these Council Chambers to review Homer projects for next summer in an open house forum.
COMMENTS OF THE MAYOR
Mayor Cushing commented on the Boelter "reseller of water" request and reminded the administration that this Council has a resolution regarding hauling sewage that has a deadline and that Council has been gracious regarding that deadline. He emphasized that this "reseller of water" matter is along those same lines and needs to be addressed as early as possible, with the recognition that these are busy times with limited staff. Mayor Cushing commented on the LID process and that it is a privilege for people to form LIDs; however, this does not constitute a promise that the requested improvements will be done nor that the City is obligated to obtain or provide funding. Regarding the DOT and HEA roadway conduit matter, the Mayor emphasized the importance on future projects to assure that the utility (electrical, water, sewer) conduits are part of the construction. He reported that the AML conference was covered well by the news media and the Mayor and Council reports will be on the next agenda.
COMMENTS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
Councilmember Yourkowski asked if the Council had received the information he placed in the boxes about "Greenprint for the Future" and urged the Council to read this material so that they could discuss it at some time when there is a Planning Department on line with a decent budget. He also noted the document, "Living with Wildlife" that Fish and Game will do for communities so that Homer does not develop the habitat areas and get to the point where wildlife cannot be enjoyed in the City. He voiced an appreciation that the airport parking problems had been addressed and some changes made. Regarding the water hauling issues, he inquired if a person has to be a commercial water hauler to be able to get water at public works and if a City resident can go to public works and haul water for himself.
Public Works Director Meyer responded that there is no provision for water fill up at Public Works.
City Manager Drathman advised that this matter is being addressed.
Councilmember Yourkowski thanked the City Manager and Finance Department for the great budget. He thanked the Council for appropriating the $2,000 for the Town Square Committee.
Councilmember Fenske voiced an appreciation of what the Town Square Committee, a public non profit group, is doing and that the $2,000 to keep their work going was cheap.
Councilmember Ladd reported on the AML NEO session and that several things had been stressed for new Councilmembers; never avoid the issues hit them head on, be willing to change when change is needed, serve with humility, know Roberts Rules and that the Budget is one of Council's most important jobs. He stated that he feels good about the budget in that he has some budgetary background and that his approach is the "needs first and then wants" issue. He pointed out that criteria and a process for funding Non profits needs to be established, a way to measure what is being discussed regarding the non profits. He offered to provide some of his rationale when Council gets to this issue, but is looking to the other Councilmembers for direction. He noted that Councilmember Marquardt has been researching the criteria for non profit funding. He voiced an appreciation for the amendment to the port/harbor budget, this was a very good move. Mr. Ladd voiced his opinion that the harbor is the City and the City is the harbor and that recreation, tourism, business and everything revolves around it. He asked for a vision of where the City is going with the harbor in five years, for a vision in the City regarding technology and will meet with the City Manager to see if there is a plan. He thanked the City Manager and other City employees that are responsible for this budget, that is easy to see what is added and deleted.
Councilmember Cue voiced support of the Policy Task Force, a stake holder's group regarding the vehicles on the beaches issue. She stated that she liked what Councilmember Ladd said about the vision. She relayed that after hearing the testimony at the Planning Commission and Parks and Recreation Commission she was able, for the first time, to see what the beaches looked like 30 years ago and is saddened at the current condition. She emphasized looking ahead at what is established, protected and what the community wants to create for the beaches. The beaches are as important a part of the community as the port and harbor and the town square. The community of Homer is going to define for the Council how the City wants the beaches to look in the future and the City will move forward in the direction the public wants. She encouraged everyone to be open minded during the process. She thanked the Finance Director for all of his work on the budget and Port/Harbor Director Abbott for all his work on the port and harbor. She voiced her pleasure at being able to fund the harbor officer nighttime position.
Councilmember Kranich echoed the compliments to the staff; Finance Director Baugh for the way the budget is formatted and laid out, Public Works Director Meyer and Port/Harbor Director Abbott and the City Hall staff for working up the numbers. He stated that through this team effort an excellent budget document was developed, adding that the staff is an excellent team. Mr. Kranich noted that the staff works hard to support the Council and provide the information for them to make informed decisions.
Councilmember Marquardt thanked Library Director Helm for her years of service and that she has been a strong advocate for promoting the library and advancing its technologies. He wished her the best in her new endeavors.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Council the meeting was adjourned at 11:13 p.m. The next regular meeting is scheduled for December 11, 2000 at 7:30 p.m. A Budget Worksession is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 29, 2000.
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MARY L. CALHOUN, CMC, CITY CLERK Approved: ___________________________