Session 09-19 a Regular Meeting of the Homer City Council was called to order on September 14, 2009 at 7:01 p.m. by Mayor Pro Tempore Dennis Novak at the Homer City Hall Cowles Council Chambers located at 491 E. Pioneer Avenue, Homer, Alaska, and opened with the Pledge of Allegiance. 

 

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

 

ABSENT:                                                ZAK (excused)

 

                              STAFF:                                        CITY MANAGER WREDE

                                                                                    CITY CLERK JOHNSON

                                                                                    CITY ATTORNEY KLINKNER     

                                                                                    CITY PLANNER ABBOUD

                                                                                    FINANCE DIRECTOR HARVILLE

LIBRARY DIRECTOR HILL

PORT/HARBOR DIRECTOR HAWKINS

PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR MEYER

 

Mayor Hornaday  and Councilmember Zak have requested excusal.

 

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

 

Council met as a Committee of the Whole from 4:02 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. to discuss 2010 Draft Proposed Budget. A Worksession was conducted from 5:43 p.m. to 6:50 p.m. to discuss   Ordinance 09-40, An Ordinance of the Homer City Council Adopting the 2008 Homer Comprehensive Plan and Recommending Adoption by the Kenai Peninsula Borough.

 

AGENDA APPROVAL

 

(Addition of items to or removing items from the agenda will be by unanimous consent of the Council. HCC 1.24.040.)

 

ROBERTS/LEWIS – MOVED TO APPROVE THE AGENDA.

 

ROBERTS/WYTHE – MOVED TO MOVE THE CITY MANAGER’S REPORT TO UNDER ANNOUNCEMENTS.

 

The following amendments were made:  

 

PUBLIC HEARINGS 2010 Budget, Written public comments; ORDINANCES - Ordinance 09-40, Written public comments and Ordinance 09-46(S), Substitute Ordinance; CITY MANAGER’S REPORT - Draft FY 2010 Operating Budget Guiding Principles by City Manager Wrede and Draft FY 2010 Operating Budget, Budget Highlights by City Manager Wrede; RESOLUTIONS - Resolution 09-95, Proposal Receipt Log, Resolution 09-96, Proposal Receipt Log.

There was no discussion.

 

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

 

Motion carried.

 

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

 

Motion carried.

 

PUBLIC COMMENTS UPON MATTERS ALREADY ON THE AGENDA

 

Frank Griswold, city resident, commented on Ordinance 09-40, questioning the need for an ordinance when prior comprehensive plans were adopted via resolution. He contended the City of Homer was never delegated planning authority. In a 2004 legal case former City Attorney Tans quoted, “For the area of the City of Homer, the KPB has delegated this planning responsibility to the city council.” The city has limited authority to make non extensive amendments to the land use plan, a small part of the Comprehensive Plan. The Homer Spit portion of the Comp Plan is being drafted separately at a large cost. It cannot be completed separately. Mr. Griswold read a quote from Frommer’s Alaska 2007 relating to Homer’s poor community planning.  

 

Leonard Wells, city resident, questioned the financial impact to the city regarding Ordinance 09-41. He urged Council to pass Ordinances 09-45 and 09-46.

 

Steve Zimmerman, city resident, asked if Ordinance 09-34(A) was needed for regulation of wind mills. No procedures are outlined that allow anyone to do small things. He noted the ordinance was backwards with small lots in town allowed large units and larger properties only allowed small units. Windmills are not allowed in GC1, GC2, Bridgecreek, and MC districts. There is nothing for experimental windmills. He questioned the Underwriters Laboratory connection. If we want to save money we could quit passing ordinances and let people live without more rules and regulations. As to Ordinance 09-42, permits for special events are not needed. It is just extra money.

 

Kyra Wagner, city resident and director of Sustainable Homer, reported she has received visitors from all over looking at the key to Homer’s sustainability. She sees the vibrant and hopeful side of town, those that want to make Homer a better community. She is happy the Comp Plan has vision statements. She asked that Goal 8 under Chapter 8 regarding oil and coal exploration be removed for economic and social reasons.

 

Michael Kennedy, city resident, shares the sentiments with Mr. Zimmerman on Ordinance 09-34(A). We need no regulations in regard to energy as it is a non problem. To try to restrict it when it does not exist is putting the cart before the horse. Why spend energy to stop people from using energy savings systems? The ordinance eliminates anyone from having a wind system that has less than one acre of land. There are no regulations on burning fossil fuels or poisonous car exhaust. Wind generators are not going to kill or fall on anyone.

Donna Maltz, city resident and founder of Sustainable Homer, commented communities across the country are fueling the economy with solar. There is economic potential and savings to communities. Her restaurant is a big energy user with a propane bill of $800 per week. To employ people and move forward she works 80-100 hours a week. She would like Ordinance 09-34(A) revised to take care of business owners. If you want to work with you neighbors, three or four businesses could get together and co-op.

 

Nina Faust, Homer resident, commented on Ordinance 09-40. Her concern is Goal 9 of Chapter 8 on oil and gas development. It should be revised to support regional renewable energy, research exploration and production. The future of cheaper power will not lie in oil, gas and coal. Sunlight, water, tidal, and wind will be the leaders. In Goal 10 the naval home porting idea should be removed and replaced with NOAA and Coast Guard home porting.

 

Oceana Wills, Homer resident, commented on Ordinance 09-40. Homer Alaska Youth for Environmental Action (HAYA) provided Chapter 9 that fits nicely with sustainability and environmental friendliness. Goal 8 goes against the rest of the plan and is backwards.

 

Roberta Highland, city resident and President of the Kachemak Bay Conservation Society, commented on Ordinance 09-40. She agrees with previous speakers. Goal 9 in Chapter 8 should support regional renewable energy, research exploration and production. Instead of large scale development, Homer should encourage business activities that provide support services for fisheries, renewable energy projects, green technologies and ecotourism. She would like to see the naval port idea removed and replaced with NOAA and the Coast Guard. Ocean acidification is also needed in the Comprehensive Plan.

 

Bill Marley, city resident, has a view of the ocean and mountains, an everlasting piece of art. The city has an ordinance to put electric wires underground and get rid of telephone poles. He would not like to look through a windmill to see the mountains. Ohlson Mountain or Bald Mountain are the best places for windmills.

 

Jason Baird, Fritz Creek resident, commented last year HAYA presented Chapter 9 of the Comp Plan with a vision statement for ecologically sustainable and renewable energy on every level. Homer is a progressive community and windmills and solar panels are renewal energies.

 

Diana Hutt, city resident, offered support for the Boys and Girls Club. She is a coach and her children attend the club.

 

Larry Tripp, city resident, commented on Ordinance 09-34(A). While windmills are a good idea, no one is considering their neighbors. Windmills can block views and properties are taxed for their view. A 20 ft. or smaller windmill can prevent neighbors from access to satellite. If a homeowner’s windmill interferes with someone’s satellite, the homeowner is responsible for it.

 

Daniel Shannon, city resident, commented it is expensive to live in Homer and people pay extra money to live here. Regulations are needed for general welfare. He opposes windmills, citing an ugly windmill in Ninilchik that is intrusive on other people’s view. Methane is a viable fuel, but you would object to a pig farm in the city. If everyone wants eyesores then we should permit them. Windmills should be all or nothing.

 

RECONSIDERATION

 

A.                Ordinance 09-34(A), An Ordinance of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Amending Homer City Code 21.03.040 to Add Definitions Regarding Small Wind Energy Systems and to Amend the Definition of Public Utility Facility or Structure; amending Homer City Code 21.05.030 to Exclude Wind Energy Systems in the Measurement of Building Height; Amending Homer City Code 21.12.020, 21.14.020, 21.16.020, 21.18.020, 21.20.020, 21.22.020, 21.24.020, 21.26.020, 21.28.020, 21.30.020 and 21.50.040 21.40.050 to Add Small Wind Energy Systems as a Permitted Accessory Use in the Rural Residential, Urban Residential, Residential Office, Central Business District, Town Center District, Gateway Business District, General Commercial One, General Commercial Two, Marine Commercial, Marine Industrial and Bridge Creek Watershed Protection Zoning Districts; Amending Homer City Code 21.12.020, 21.14.040, 21.16.030, 21.18.030, 21.20.020 and 21.22.030 to Add Small Wind Energy Systems with a Rated Capacity Exceeding 10 Kilowatts as a Conditional Use in the Rural Residential, Urban Residential, Residential Office, Central Business District, Town Center District, and Gateway Business District Zoning Districts; Enacting Homer City Code Chapter 21.58 to Establish Standards for Small Wind Energy Systems; and Enacting Homer City Code 21.60.070 Regarding the Effect of Small Wind Energy Systems on Nonconforming Uses and Structures. City Manager/City Planner. Introduction July 27, 2009, Public Hearing August 10, 2009, Public Hearing and Second Reading August 24, 2009.       

 

ROBERTS/LEWIS - MOVED TO RECONSIDER ORDINANCE 09-34(A).

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. ROBERTS, NOVAK, LEWIS

 

NO. WYTHE, HOWARD

 

Motion failed.

 

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 August 24, 2009 Regular Meeting. City Clerk.                                                                                                             

 

HOWARD/LEWIS – MOVED FOR THE APPROVAL OF THE CONSENT AGENDA AS READ.

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

VISITORS

 

A.                Matt Jamin,  Exxon Valdez Settlement Update, via Telephone 10 minutes.   

 

Matt Jamin, Attorney for the Exxon Valdez Settlement, provided an update over the last 20 years. The Federal Court verdict in 1994 was for $5B with interest. In 2008 the United States Supreme Court reduced the amount to $500M with interest. Since the Supreme Court decided the maximum amount of punitive damages award should be $500M there has been litigation over the amount of interest. Exxon said the interest should apply from 2008 when the amount was reduced; it was the attorneys’ view that interest should run from 1996 when the District Court originally imposed the judgment against Exxon. The Ninth Circuit agreed with the attorneys on interest from 1996. The amount due to the participants is $500M in principle and $500M in interest. There is still an issue in costs, with Exxon saying $70M spent on costs should be shifted to the plaintiffs. The Ninth Circuit has ruled in the plaintiffs favor, but Exxon has asked for reconsideration. It is expected Exxon will have to disgorge the $70M. In 1996 and 1997 it was agreed that the various parties that brought forward litigation would divide the money. The plan of allocation would require 2% of any recovery to go to municipalities. A plan of distribution decided how the 2% would be divided among municipalities. Each of the eleven municipalities were to receive a share, with Homer’s share at almost 12%. From the $470M settlement the city should receive $1.15M. It is the best projection now, with distribution to the city by late October. Mr. Jamin cautioned that the distribution could be challenged. 

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS/PRESENTATIONS/BOROUGH             REPORT/COMMISSION REPORTS

 

A.        Mayor’s Proclamation – Sea Otter Awareness Week, September 27 - October 3, 2009   

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak read the proclamation.

 

Commissions/Board Reports:

 

A.        Library Advisory Board

 

B.        Homer Advisory Planning Commission

 

C.        Economic Development Advisory Commission

 

D.        Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission

 

E.         Port and Harbor Advisory Commission

There were no commission or board reports.

 

Bill Smith, Kenai Peninsula Borough Assemblyman, announced the Assembly will meet in Homer tomorrow. A visit to the new hospital wing is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. The Borough will introduce a resolution on climate change; there is an increasing awareness of ocean acidification on tourism and lifestyles. 

 

CITY MANAGER’S REPORT

 

City Manager Wrede provided guiding principles in the preparation of the 2010 proposed budget:

 

City Council Priorities

 

·         No new taxes or increases in tax levies.

·         No new user fees or increases in fee rates.

·         Preserve and protect fund balances and reserve accounts.

·         Priority for basic/core municipal services. If cuts need to be made, eliminate funding for non-core services and programs first.

·         Allow local voters to decide whether unprepared foods should continue to be exempt from the City Sales Tax.

·         Provide a conservative draft budget which assumes that the economic downturn will continue next year and that the ballot proposition will fail.

 

City Manager Priorities

 

·         Avoid departmental cuts that jeopardize the core mission and primary service delivery

·         Avoid overreacting, cutting too deeply, and causing damage to services that would be difficult to restore, until more revenue information becomes available.

·         Suspend contributions to reserve and depreciation accounts for one year and simultaneously, suspend expenditures from those accounts.

·         Place a high priority on workforce morale, productivity, and competitiveness when considering expenditure reduction options.

·         Achieve workforce and personnel expense reductions through attrition, retirements, limited layoffs, and suspending COLA’s.

·         Avoid budget cuts that look good on paper but which in reality, are not likely to save money.

·         Recommend a 1 year moratorium on all new capital projects.

·         Recommend a 1 year moratorium on all new equipment purchases.

·         Recommend a 1 Year moratorium on all new programs or services.  

 

Following is a brief list of budget highlights. This list mostly illustrates what has been cut.

 

Budget Highlights / General Fund            

 

·         Workforce Reduction: The Project Manager position at Public Works remains unfunded. In addition, this budget eliminates funding for the equivalent of 8.5 City positions including 2.5 at Public Works, 2.5 at the Police Department, 1 at the Fire Department, 1 in Administration, and .5 positions at the Library, the Clerk’s office, and Finance Department. This will result in significant and noticeable reductions in services. For example, road, sidewalks, parks, trails, and landscaping (flowers) maintenance will be reduced or eliminated. Support for boards and commissions and responsiveness to public requests for information will be reduced or slowed. Continuous 24/7 coverage at both the Police and Fire Departments is no longer possible. Overtime is eliminated in most departments and reduced in others.

·         Library Hours: The Library hours will be reduced and the facility will be closed on Monday. There will also be a reduction in services and programs. 

·         Community Schools: Funding for the Community Schools Program is eliminated and the program will terminate in February after the already scheduled winter classes are completed.

·         Old Intermediate School: This facility which houses the West Campus of KPC and the Boys and Girls Club will be closed on January 1 because the City cannot afford to continue losing money on it. 

·         Capital Projects: The budget contains no money for new capital projects. We recommend that staff spend the next year working on the capital projects we already have in progress.

·         Depreciation: Transfers to depreciation accounts are reduced to zero. This is not recommended and does not meet Council goals, but is necessary. Spending from depreciation accounts is basically frozen, thus holding the accounts “harmless” and allowing them to grow slightly. Reducing depreciation contributions limits the Council’s ability to plan for and fund necessary capital improvements. It also has adverse impacts on audit reports and bond ratings.

·         Fleet reserves: Transfers are reduced to zero. Again, this is not recommended but is necessary. Expenditures from fleet reserves are essentially frozen, thus allowing them to grow slightly.

·         Equipment / fleet purchases:  The budget contains no new equipment or vehicles. This is a setback for the goal of replacing old inefficient and gas guzzling vehicles. It also means we cannot adhere to the established equipment/fleet replacement schedule. Delays in purchasing needed equipment will eventually affect service and cost the City more.

·         COLA: The budget contains no funding for employee COLA’s this year.

·         Climate Action Plan:  There is no money in this budget to implement the Climate Action Plan. This includes projects that might have a return on investment within a relatively short amount of time. Recommendations from the consultants on how to save money in City buildings and the fleet will be due in the next few months.

·         Parks:  The amount of money transferred the Parks Reserve has been reduced to zero and there is no capital money in the budget for major repairs and upgrades to parks identified by the Parks Commission. For example, there is no money to implement the Karen Hornaday Park Master Plan or for bathrooms and other improvements at Jack Gist or Ben Walters.

·         Planning: This is the one GF department that does not lose personnel, in large part because of all of the expectations for planning contained in the Comprehensive Plan. The budget contains no transfers to the Planning Reserves so hiring consultants to do this work is problematic. If an additional round of cuts are necessary, a force reduction in planning will be almost unavoidable.

·         HAWSP, Water and Sewer Projects, Watershed Land Acquisition: Over 70% of annual revenues in the HAWSP program will be dedicated to debt payments starting in 2010. Further, if the sales tax proposition fails, revenues to the fund will remain decreased by approximately $131,724. Until we have a little more financial certainty, we are suspending efforts to purchase any additional land in the Bridge Creek Watershed and placing a temporary hold on any new water and sewer LIDs and any additional assumption of debt. This affects the City’s bonding capacity and its ability to provide local matches for grants and legislative appropriations.

·         HART: If the ballot measure fails, the HART Program will continue to receive approximately $131,724 less in revenue each year. This means less money for roads and trails. It also reduces the City’s bond rating and its ability to provide local matches for grants and appropriations.

·         New Departments and Programs: This budget does not contain funding for a parks and recreation department or parks and recreation programs. There is also no money for community policing, taking over platting authority, economic development or other programs that have been discussed.

·         Economic Development:  There is no money in this budget for economic development. The annual contribution to the Chamber of Commerce has been eliminated. The contribution to the Fishing Hole stocking has been eliminated. There is no money at all for economic development.

·         Lobbying: Mayor Hornaday has mentioned several times that he thinks the City should consider hiring a lobbyist because of predicted large state capital budgets in the next few years. There is no money in this budget for that purpose. In fact, the line item in the Council budget for lobbying activities by Council members has been zeroed out.

·         Legal Budget: The proposed budget for legal services is significantly below what actual expenses were in 2008 and 2009. It is recommended that the Council discontinue the practice of automatically defending the City every time it is sued. Each case will be evaluated independently and the Council can decide its importance to the City overall. Relatively minor cases such as disputes over alley vacations, setbacks, non-conforming uses etc. need not necessarily use up large amounts of tax payer resources.

·         Sister Cities: The contribution to the Sister City’s program is zero this year. The fund has over $20,000 in it which should be enough to cover obligations this year.

·         Public Art: There  is no funding for maintenance of public art

·         Non-Profits: Funding for the Pratt has been reduced by $20,000. Funding for the Homer Foundation and the Chamber of Commerce has been eliminated. It is hoped that the Foundation can distribute earning from the City Trust Fund this year. The City will also contribute a portion of the Exxon Interest Earnings later this year.

 

 

 

Budget Highlights / Water and Sewer Fund

 

The overall 2010 budget picture is somewhat brighter for the Water and Sewer Fund. The draft budget for water and sewer was developed with Council priorities in mind. Even though Council will not review water and sewer fees again until the Spring of 2011, it is still necessary to establish a Water and Sewer Enterprise Fund Budget for Fiscal Year 2010.

 

The new fee structure / model appears to be working well so far. By that I mean that it seems to be generating revenues that are sufficient and predictable. The Finance Department projects that revenues in 2010 will increase by approximately $260,000 over the projected revenues in the adopted 2009 budget. The Public Works Department has reduced expenses significantly for 2010. Maintenance and Operations expenses, before transfers, have been reduced by approximately $100,000. The budget ordinance shows that overall expenses have increased slightly however, that reflects the fact that more money is transferred into the depreciation account than the previous year. Total Operating Revenues are projected to be $3,534,501 and total expenses are projected to be $2,941,300. $500,000 of this surplus has been placed in the depreciation fund and $113,195 remains in the fund balance.

 

Budget Highlights / Port and Harbor Fund

 

The overall 2010 budget picture for the Port and Harbor Enterprise Fund is also better than that of the General Fund. In fact, the news is good. Revenues are projected to be $3,351,361 in 2010 which is an increase of $158.774 over budgeted revenues in 2009. Expenditures ($3,108,398) have been reduced by approximately $200,000. A large part of that reduction is because the Deep Water Dock bond was retired in 2009. The Port and Harbor Fund is now debt free.

 

The proposed budget contains a transfer of $354,530 into the Port and Harbor Reserve Fund and $88,000 is added to the fund balance. There are no fee increases proposed this year and no new employees. The budget contains also about $150,000 in needed capital improvements.   

 

Exxon Funds have been designated for the Permanent Fund, with 5% allocated to the non profit investment fund to generate funds for future distribution.

 

PUBLIC HEARING(S)

 

A.                2010 Budget

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak opened the public hearing.

 

John Fenske, Chair of Kachemak Bay Advisory Board, read comments from the board’s recent meeting. There is concern with the City budget with too little revenue and too much need. Kenai Peninsula College is paying $57,000 annually for use of one third of the West Campus facility. Closing the campus is absurd. Cost savings could be realized by closing the other old school building next to the West Campus and institute an energy conservation program. There is a desire to reduce the cost of operations at the West Campus facility. City administration needs to take the lead on city facilities for heating/lighting reductions. The current enrollment at Kachemak Bay campus is 475, which provides jobs and revenue created by the students on campus. It is fruitless to ignore that we are all in this together.

 

Dwayne Tollefsrud, city resident and technology coordinator for the Boys and Girls Club, spoke on his own opinions. In November the Boys and Girls Club will celebrate 10 years. From opening day until now he has seen a number of people and kids coming through. The City has been a great supporter of the Boys and Girls Club over the last 10 years; he understands the value of the club is not in dispute. His concern is with the abrupt notice, as they will have to close in two months in the middle of the winter. He asked Council to reconsider closing the building until they can find an alternative location to house Homer’s premiere positive place for kids.

 

Jeanne Parker, city resident, spoke on Community Schools. It has been cut from being run by the State, the KPB, and in 2006 became a City program. She would choose prevention to fund quality of life in Homer. Mike Illg is an excellent and dedicated employee. Community Schools has 226 programs and 4,000 participants and provides a physical and mental health support system for the community.

 

Sam Reece, Anchor Point resident, has been a member of the Boys and Girls Club for six years. It is a good place for kids; without it he would have nowhere to go. There are a lot of good resources there including homework and activities. The community will suffer without the club.

 

Ben Gibson, city resident, advocated for Community Schools. It was run by the borough and then passed off to the city. The KPB’s contribution is the facility, with the city’s position leveraging the contribution. Mike Illg’s position is critical to keeping the program running. At budget time you have to look at the most bang for the buck. Community Schools yields $30,000 in revenue and $60,000 in volunteer hours. If the doors close will the borough be willing to reopen the user agreement?

 

Brenda Dolma, city resident, urged Council to look at the quality of life for each and every decision and think of creative challenges. With creative cooperation we can keep the doors open for Community Schools, the college, and the library. Quality of life and prevention should be in the foremost of your mind when making decisions.

 

Gayle Ammerman, city resident and Kenai Peninsula College Counsel, is a champion of educational programs. She asked that the closure of the West Campus be delayed until January 2011. The college has a longtime history of working with the city. In the past the college received money from the Legislature. When the voters did not support Town Center the college asked for reassignment of the funds.  

 

Leonard Wells, city resident, believes Council needs to expound on citizens and the City Manager’s priorities for activities. There are no requirements for the city to have fire and police, just expectations that those are core requirements. Council needs to expound on what the core requirements are so the City Manager can do a budget for those items and budget for other items that would be nice to have.

 

Peg Coleman, Executive Director for Haven House, explained the limited funds received from the City are used to leverage money at 80%. In the past year Haven House served 328 women and 79 men, provided shelter to children and adults, a crisis line, and a child advocacy center serving 48 local children. Haven House stepped up to run the safe kids program, substance abuse services, and preventative programs in the schools. To meet the crucial need of shelter for runaway or homeless youth the offices are open 24/7 with staff. Due to the current economic crisis it is anticipated the numbers of crisis interventions will rise. Haven House loses points of federal and state grants when there is no show of municipal support.

 

Kelly Jackman, Director of the Boys and Girls Club, said the theme is prevention. She asked Council to extend the deadline until the school year is out. There are 177 members today. She asked for compassion for the kids, where are kids going to go? In January it will be dark and cold, there will be cutbacks in police, and crime rates do rise when kids are not watched after school.

 

Daniel Shannon, city resident, commented on taxes, stating it was a give and take. People voluntarily give money to charities. As to the library or the Boys and Girls Club, we need to think outside the box. Charging a fee to borrow a book for a week will offset some of the expenses and shows responsibility on the part of the person wanting to borrow the book. The Boys and Girls Club has 177 kids enrolled. Each parent can provide $1 a day or they can work it off. You have to get a little money from here and there. For art classes he will volunteer his time for Community Schools. People taking care of people will do a much better job.

 

Carol Swartz, Campus Director of Kachemak Bay College, commented the closing of the building the West Campus operates out of would be a severe blow to the university’s ability to continue operations. Fifty percent of the services operate out of the 8,000 sq. ft. building; the college pays rent of $60,000 a year. There is a timeline for planning to relocate and consolidate in another building, with the earliest time out of West Campus as January 2011. Relocating Kachemak Bay College in the middle of the school year is not the answer. The city has stated its commitment to economic development and the college does its share of shoring the town’s infrastructure. In a recent study $11.1M is the college’s employment impact for the Kenai Peninsula Borough with $15.8M in expenditures.

 

Julia Person, Haven House advocate, commented very little taxpayer money is used to leverage services that benefit everyone. When the hospital has people detox at taxpayer expense, when domestic violence is part of the issue they go into Haven House. The child advocacy center provides local services. The Haven House is an advocacy center, an example nationally of excellence and utilization of limited resources.

 

Bill Smith, identified himself as citizen, Kachemak Bay Campus Board Member, and unpaid energy consultant. Last year the City paid $82,016 in fuel and electricity to the West Campus building. In the adjacent building the City paid $22,686 for heat and electricity. For heat and lights we pay $3.42 per sq. ft. on the West Campus, with the adjacent building costing $3.07 per sq. ft. The college pays $57,000 per year. He asked the City to reexamine how much will be saved by shutting down the building? An aggressive energy conservation plan is needed now. 

Dan Lush, Homer resident and Haven House employee, agrees with Julia Person and Peg Coleman. He has worked at the Boys and Girls Club and has two kids that attend after school. If forced out of business he will have to hire a babysitter. Single parents and slightly poor persons may not have that edge. We are balancing the budget on the backs of the poor and children. More creative and imaginative approaches need to be made. Those in the borough are not contributing enough to the expenses borne by the city residents. He would like to see borough residents pay more of the costs.

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak closed the public hearing.

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a recess at 9:10 p.m. and reconvened the meeting at 9:20 p.m.

 

B.                 Ordinance 09-38, An Ordinance of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Amending Title 21 Zoning and Planning to Update 21.41 Flood Prone Areas to Reflect Revisions Recommended by FEMA and Adopting (by Reference) the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) Dated September 25, 2009. City Manager/City Planner. Introduction August 24, 2009, Public Hearing and Second Reading September 14, 2009.                       

 

Memorandum 09-108 from City Planner as backup.                                     

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak opened the public hearing.

 

There was no public comment.

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak closed the public hearing.

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion for the adoption of Ordinance 09-38 by reading of title only for second and final reading.

 

WYTHE/ROBERTS - SO MOVED.

 

There was no discussion.

 

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

 

Motion carried.

 

WYTHE/ROBERTS - MOVED TO SUSPEND THE RULES AND CHANGE THE ORDER OF THE MEETING TO HEAR CITY ATTORNEY COMMENTS.

 

There was no discussion.

 

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

 

Motion carried.

Tom Klinkner, City Attorney, commented on the relationship between the City of Homer and the Kenai Peninsula Borough in relation to adoption of the Comprehensive Plan. An excerpt from an Alaska Supreme Court 2008 opinion Griswold vs. City of Homer was read: “We now consider the second source of the City’s power to regulate land use. The Kenai Peninsula Borough by ordinance delegated the zoning power to cities willing to accept the delegation. It also delegated to those cities power to establish a Planning Commission to hear all requests for amendments to zoning codes. The same ordinance also authorized the city with this delegated zoning power to exercise all zoning powers within the city to the extent that such powers have been granted to the borough by statute. The Kenai Peninsula Borough therefore delegated the power to regulate zoning to the City of Homer which by ordinance requested the delegation. The city standing in the place of the borough was therefore obligated to establish a zoning commission, draft a Comprehensive Plan, and comply with state law governing planning and land use regulation.”

 

In reference to dedication of funds, there is a reference in the State Constitution that prohibits state revenues to be dedicated to a particular purpose. The Constitutional provision is not explicitly applicable to municipalities; it talks about State revenues. By voter approval funds were dedicated.

 

As to potential reductions in legal expenses in the coming budget year, Mr. Klinkner commented the firm’s compensation is structured two fold with a monthly retainer flat fee for routine matters. The firm is paid hourly for work on litigation, principally on challenges to various zoning actions, about 90% of the cost. A landowner applies for a permit, the permit is granted, then a concerned citizen challenges the legality of the granting of the permit. The City could consider that the landowner bear the burden of defending the lawsuit. The City could agree or decline to participate. The landowner has the investment to protect and the motivation on their own to defend the decision.

 

Asked by Mayor Pro Tempore Novak if there was a precedent that the landowner bear the legal costs, Mr. Klinkner answered there are many instances when the issue does not involve a broad policy and the city could step aside.

 

Asked by Mayor Pro Tempore Novak if there was constitutional language on dedication of HAWSP and HART funds, Mr. Klinkner answered there was no language for municipal government. There are court cases that have declined the issue for municipalities.

 

Mr. Klinkner commented on a question arising before the meeting regarding acceptance of gifts. He referenced the ethics ordinance HCC 1.18.030(l) on gratuities.  

 

ORDINANCE(S)

 

A.    Ordinance 09-40, An Ordinance of the Homer City Council Adopting the 2008 Homer Comprehensive Plan and Recommending Adoption by the Kenai Peninsula Borough. City Manager. Recommended dates: Introduction September 14, 2009, Public Hearing and Second Reading September 28, 2009.

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion for the adoption of Ordinance 09-40 for introduction and first reading by reading of title only.                                            

 

WYTHE/ROBERTS - SO MOVED.

 

WYTHE/LEWIS – MOVED TO AMEND THE READINGS FOR PUBLIC HEARINGS ON OCTOBER 12TH AND 26TH AND SECOND READING ON OCTOBER 26, 2009.

 

There was no discussion on the amendment.

 

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

 

Motion carried.

 

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

 

Motion carried.

 

B.                 Ordinance 09-41, An Ordinance of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Accepting and Appropriating a Rasmuson Foundation Grant of $15,000.00 for Collection Development for the Homer Public Library and Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the Appropriate Documents. City Manager. Recommended dates: Introduction September 14, 2009, Public Hearing and Second Reading September 28, 2009.        

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion for the adoption of Ordinance 09-41 for introduction and first reading by reading of title only.

 

WYTHE/LEWIS - SO MOVED.

 

The grant requires no match; it is purely a grant from the Rasmuson Foundation.

 

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

 

Motion carried.

 

C.                 Ordinance 09-42, An Ordinance of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Adopting Homer City Code Chapter 19.02, Special Events, Requiring Permits for Special Events in the City, and Authorizing Charges for City Services Required for Special Events. City Manager. Recommended dates: Introduction September 14, 2009, Public Hearing and Second Reading September 28, 2009.

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion for the adoption of Ordinance 09-42 for introduction and first reading by reading of title only.

                                                                                                                                   

WYTHE/ROBERTS - SO MOVED.

 

ROBERTS/WYTHE - MOVED TO AMEND LINE 67 TYPO “POINT OF CONTRACT” AND CHANGE TO “POINT OF CONTACT”.

 

There was no discussion.

 

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

 

Motion carried.

 

Councilmember Howard commented on the 10% deposit, indicating 20% would be more appropriate.

 

WYTHE/LEWIS - MOVED TO INCLUDE ORDINANCE 09-42 ON THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING FOR SEPTEMBER 28TH FOR FURTHER DISCUSSION.

 

There was no discussion.

 

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

 

Motion carried.

 

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

 

Motion carried.

 

D.                Ordinance 09-43, An Ordinance of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Enacting Homer City Code 1.24.130, Compensation, and Homer City Code 1.76.070, Compensation, Establishing a Method for Determining the Compensation of Elected City Officials and Members of the Homer Advisory Planning Commission. Novak. Recommended dates: Introduction September 14, 2009, Public Hearing and Second Reading September 28, 2009.                                                                        

 

ROBERTS/NOVAK - MOVED TO ADOPT ORDINANCE 09-43 FOR INTRODUCTION AND FIRST READING BY READING OF TITLE ONLY.

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak noted the intent is to place compensation for city officials as a budget item for 2011. He advocated for compensation for the Mayor, City Councilmembers, and Planning Commissioners who are doing a job, and giving up their time and enjoyments voluntarily. There are not a lot of people that step forward, either having no time, wishing no responsibility, or they don’t want to be a target. Officials are here to make Homer a better place to live and a better community. It is a sacrifice and reasonable to give compensation or recognition to offset the effort. He has seen the Planning Commission work tirelessly for hours on end with no recognition and payment for their time.

 

HOWARD/WYTHE - MOVED TO AMEND TO STRIKE LINES 17-35 AS WHINING; WE ARE NOT INTERESTED IN TALKING ABOUT HOW WONDERFUL WE ARE AND HOW HARD WE WORK.

 

Councilmember Howard explained the first whereas supports the title of the ordinance.

 

Councilmember Wythe commented we are coming to the community to cut all that is dear to the heart; there is no support for the ordinance. Councilmember Roberts supports the amendment, although noted people on the Planning Commission should be considered for their volunteer time. Councilmember Lewis expressed his opposition unless postponed until January after the budget process.

 

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

 

Motion carried.

 

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

NO. LEWIS, WYTHE, HOWARD

 

Motion failed.

 

E.         Ordinance 09-44, An Ordinance of the Homer City Council of Homer, Alaska, Amending Homer City Code 21.03.040 to Add Definitions Related to Overslope Development in the Homer Small Boat Harbor, and Enacting Homer City Code 21.46 Small Boat Harbor Overlay District, to Regulate Overslope Development Around the Homer Small Boat Harbor as a Conditional Use. City Manager/Planning. Recommended dates: Introduction September 14, 2009, Public Hearing and Second Reading September 28, 2009.                                                                                                              

 

Memorandum 09-116 from City Planner as backup.                                     

 

LEWIS/WYTHE - MOVED FOR THE ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE 09-44 FOR INTRODUCTION AND FIRST READING BY READING OF TITLE ONLY.

 

WYTHE/HOWARD - MOVED TO AMEND TO ADD PUBLIC HEARINGS AT THE SEPTEMBER 28TH AND OCTOBER 12TH MEETINGS WITH THE SECOND READING ON OCTOBER 12TH.

 

Ordinance 09-44 is to be included with the Committee of the Whole on October 12th.

 

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

 

Motion carried.

 

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

 

Motion carried.

 

F.         Ordinance 09-45, An Ordinance of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Amending Homer City Code 14.08.020, Definitions, and Adopting Homer City Code 14.08.045, Replacing Temporary Extended Connections, to Require the Replacement of a Temporary Extended Connection Crossing Another Lot when the Lot that is Served has Direct Access to a City Water Main. City Manager.  Recommended Dates: Introduction September 14, 2009, Public Hearing And Second Reading September 28, 2009.

                                                                                                                                   

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion for the adoption of Ordinance 09-45 for introduction and first reading by reading of title only.

 

ROBERTS/WYTHE - SO MOVED.

 

City Manager Wrede noted written recommendations to the City Manager from Public Works Director Meyer will be prepared for the next meeting. There are types of situations that need to be resolved and the amendment will provide a solution to this problem and future problems. It includes provisions for property owners with spaghetti lines to connect to the system. The problem is not that property owners can be convinced to connect; it is paying their fair share of the main that extends across the property. Language is needed that talks specifically about that.

 

Discussion ensued on not forcing people to connect right now, possibly connect if the property is sold. The documents in place now do not compel people to connect ever. We do not want to create a hardship for existing owners. Spaghetti lines are now being recorded, old records were not, thus would not show up in a title search. Fairview Avenue residents are aware of the spaghetti lines.

 

Public Works Director Meyer commented people who own lots served by spaghetti lines know they are served by such, but don’t know the implications. It is a hidden liability; they didn’t pay for the cost of extending the main across their property, so put in a spaghetti line. We try vigorously not to allow spaghetti lines at all. There are situations that have been created over time and we need a fair way to get back to the rules.

 

Councilmember Lewis asked that all people be notified before a second reading so they are allowed to speak.

 

WYTHE/LEWIS - MOVED TO AMEND FOR A 2ND PUBLIC HEARING ON OCTOBER 12TH WITH SECOND READING TO ALLOW ADEQUATE TIME FOR NOTIFICATION AND FOLLOW UP WITH A LETTER IN THE MAIL AND PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE.

 

Councilmember Howard advised against using jargon; property owners need education.

 

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

 

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

 

Motion carried.

 

G.        Ordinance 09-46, An Ordinance of the Homer City Council Suspending the Application of Homer City Code Chapter 21.90 to Certain Improvements Located on Lot 3, Block 2 Harrington Heights Subdivision. Novak.  Recommended Dates: Introduction September 14, 2009, Public Hearing And Second Reading September 28, 2009.  

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion for the adoption of Ordinance 09-46 for introduction and first reading by reading of title only.

 

LEWIS/ROBERTS – SO MOVED.

 

WYTHE/ROBERTS – MOVED TO SUBSTITUTE ORDINANCE 09-46(S) FOR 09-46.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

WYTHE/LEWIS – MOVED TO AMEND LINE 16 TO STRIKE FIRST “IN”.

 

Discussion ensued on the number of properties that have been rezoned. With 20 or 100 people in a similar situation it would be more appropriate to make amendment to city code. It was suggested a code amendment say “at the time of change of ownership”. There are eight mobile homes on this street alone. In all fairness it is public policy rather than an isolated matter.

 

City Planner Abboud reported the Planning Commission looked at the whole category. The commission’s concern is how it would retroactively apply. If future law is changed it is unclear how it would be rectified. The recommendation presented by staff was not adopted by the commission. The structure must conform to code.

 

Councilmember Howard suggested another ordinance.

 

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

 

Motion carried.

 

ROBERTS/HOWARD – MOVED FOR SECOND READING AT THE NEXT MEETING AND POSTPONE TO FOLLOW THE NEW ORDINANCE.

 

There was no additional discussion.

 

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

 

Motion carried.

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

 

Motion carried.

 

CITY MANAGER’S REPORT

 

A.                City Manager’s Report 

 

Previously heard.                                                                               

           

B.        Bid Report                                                                                                     

 

C.        Question of the Week             - It’s already Back to School time. How would you rate the summer of ’09? There are two openings on the Advisory Planning Commission. Are you interested in becoming a commissioner? Why or why not?                               

 

COMMITTEE REPORT

           

A.        Public Arts Committee

 

B.        Transportation Advisory Committee

 

C.        Permanent Fund Committee

 

D.        Lease Committee

 

There were no committee reports.

 

PENDING BUSINESS

 

A.        (If Reconsideration Passes) Ordinance 09-34(A),  An Ordinance of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Amending Homer City Code 21.03.040 to Add Definitions Regarding Small Wind Energy Systems and to Amend the Definition of Public Utility Facility or Structure; amending Homer City Code 21.05.030 to Exclude Wind Energy Systems in the Measurement of Building Height; Amending Homer City Code 21.12.020, 21.14.020, 21.16.020, 21.18.020, 21.20.020, 21.22.020, 21.24.020, 21.26.020, 21.28.020, 21.30.020 and 21.50.040 21.40.050 to Add Small Wind Energy Systems as a Permitted Accessory Use in the Rural Residential, Urban Residential, Residential Office, Central Business District, Town Center District, Gateway Business District, General Commercial One, General Commercial Two, Marine Commercial, Marine Industrial and Bridge Creek Watershed Protection Zoning Districts; Amending Homer City Code 21.12.020, 21.14.040, 21.16.030, 21.18.030, 21.20.020 and 21.22.030 to Add Small Wind Energy Systems with a Rated Capacity Exceeding 10 Kilowatts as a Conditional Use in the Rural Residential, Urban Residential, Residential Office, Central Business District, Town Center District, and Gateway Business District Zoning Districts; Enacting Homer City Code Chapter 21.58 to Establish Standards for Small Wind Energy Systems; and Enacting Homer City Code 21.60.070 Regarding the Effect of Small Wind Energy Systems on Nonconforming Uses and Structures. City Manager/City Planner.

                                                                                                                       

Reconsideration of Ordinance 09-34(A) failed under RECONSIDERATION.

 

NEW BUSINESS

 

A.        Memorandum 09-115, From Deputy City Clerk, Re: Confirmation of Election Workers for the Regular City of Homer Election – October 6, 2009 and All Processes Thereof Pursuant to Homer City Code and Deemed Necessary by the City Clerk.

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion for the approval of the recommendations of Memorandum 09-115.

 

LEWIS/WYTHE - SO MOVED.

 

There was no discussion.

 

VOTE: YES. NON OBJECTION. UNANIMOUS CONSENT.

 

Motion carried.

 

B.        Bid Opening – Request for Proposals                                                        

1.  Lot 2 Homer Public Library No. 2 Plat No. 2008-11 1.312 acres of vacant land with 215 feet of frontage on Main Street. Appraised Value & Minimum bid is $228,000.   

There were no bids submitted.

2.  Lot 79 Oscar Munson Subdivision Plat No. 3415 0.25 acres of vacant land; also known as 3112 Cranberry Place. Appraised Value & Minimum bid is $33,000.

One bid submitted by Sue Christiansen in the amount of $33,000.

RESOLUTIONS

A.        Resolution 09-95, A Resolution of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Approving the Terms and Conditions of the Sale of Lot 2, Homer Public Library No. 2; Declaring that the Highest, Responsible Bidder for Lot 2, Homer Public Library No. 2 is _____________________; and Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the Appropriate Documents to Finalize the Sale. City Manager.

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion for the adoption of Resolution 09-95 by reading of title only.                                         

 

WYTHE/LEWIS - SO MOVED.

There was no discussion.

 

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

 

Motion failed.

 

C.    Resolution 09-96, A Resolution of the City Council of Homer, Alaska, Approving the Terms and Conditions of the Sale of Lot 79, Oscar Munson Subdivision; Declaring that the Highest, Responsible Bidder for Lot 79, Oscar Munson Subdivision is _________________; and Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the Appropriate Documents to Finalize the Sale. City Manager.                                    

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion for the adoption of Resolution 09-96 by reading of title only.                                         

 

WYTHE/LEWIS - SO MOVED.

 

Resolution 09-96 was amended to add Sue Christiansen as the responsible bidder in the amount of $33,000.

 

There was no discussion.

 

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

 

Motion carried.

 

C.        Resolution 09-97, A Resolution of the City Council Of Homer, Alaska, Authorizing the City Manager to Accept and Appropriate American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Funding (ARRA-Stimulus Bill) in the Form of a Loan (90% Forgiven Upon Purchase) in the Amount of $100,000 for the Purpose of Purchasing a New Vacuum Sweeper. City Manager/Public Works Director.

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion for the adoption of Resolution 09-97 by reading of title only.

                                                                       

WYTHE/LEWIS - SO MOVED.

 

City Manager Wrede explained no additional funds are required as the equipment bid came in under the amount budgeted. Resolution 09-97 is required so Council understands 90% vs. 100% is reimbursable.

 

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

 

Motion carried.

 

D.        Resolution 09-98, A Resolution of the City Council Of Homer, Alaska, Authorizing the City Manager to Accept and Appropriate American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Funding (ARRA-Stimulus Bill) in the Form of a Loan (90% Forgiven Upon Purchase) in the Amount of $1.8M for the Purpose of Rehabilitating Sanitary Sewer Trunk Mains. City Manager/Public Works Director.                                                            

 

Memorandum 09-117 from Public Works Director as backup.         

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak called for a motion for the adoption of Resolution 09-98 by reading of title only.     

 

WYTHE/ROBERTS - SO MOVED.

 

City Manager Wrede reported the project is one Council has looked at before, but held off. There is now a good chance of getting funding. It will require new money, a match of 10%. It is a real opportunity to do some work on sewer lines that need slip lining.

 

Public Works Director Meyer explained Council discussed the project in May. Early this year the City made application for six projects with 90% forgiveness of a loan. Council decided on scenario 2, economic stimulus money with maximum forgiveness. The $1.8M would provide all the funding from the ARRA Stimulus Bill the City could receive. It would apply to the main coming up the Spit which is highly corrosive and the west and east trunk that extend from the Sewer Treatment Plant. Public Works could ensure it is in good shape and not adding infiltration to the Sewer Treatment Plant.

 

City Manager Wrede said it doesn’t have to be a loan at the rate of 1.5% as there was concern of adding to the City’s debt. An ordinance is needed to spend the money with the City responsible for $180,000 of the $1.8M project. Resolution 09-98 would allow the City to submit an application.

 

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

 

Motion carried.

 

COMMENTS OF THE AUDIENCE

 

Leonard Wells, city resident, commented on Ordinance 09-45, suggesting property owners with spaghetti line extensions receive one year to hook up to water or the water service would be terminated. The homeowner is still responsible whether or not they knew about it; ignorance is not an excuse. The title insurance company could be responsible for hooking owners up because they missed it. As to Resolution 09-97, there would still be a $10,000 or 10% cost of the City accepting the grant money.

 

City Manager Wrede commented on Resolution 09-97 there was enough money appropriated to purchase the vacuum sweeper.

 

Aaron Larson, city resident, is the owner and General Manager of Spit Spots. He is not contesting or appealing the recent RFP results for wireless internet to the harbor. The way the RFP was handled was poorly thought out. The Harbormaster consulted with the City’s IT manager, who assists with a privately owned internet service by an individual that works with the City under the IT manager. When asked for the IT manager’s opinion it mirrored the practices of the one specific company. It is not surprising of the companies that responded there was only one bid that matched the criteria. For future bids the City is best served by outside consultation. Spit Spots serves customers in the harbor and there is a good possibility service will be impaired as a result of the new service being installed. His company considered a proposal similar to the winner, but it is not possible to guarantee service at all times as requested in the RFP.

 

COMMENTS OF THE CITY ATTORNEY

 

City Attorney Klinkner commented earlier in the meeting.

 

COMMENTS OF THE CITY CLERK

 

City Clerk Johnson reminded the audience of absentee voting, beginning Sept. 21st. It is an important election for two council seats and the sales tax proposition.

 

COMMENTS OF THE CITY MANAGER

 

City Manager Wrede requested an excused absence for the next meeting.

 

COMMENTS OF THE MAYOR

 

Mayor Pro Tempore Novak appreciates the public comments on the Comprehensive Plan and budget. There were good comments made, giving the Council some sense of what the community wants. Priorities that may not have been considered before were expressed.

 

COMMENTS OF THE CITY COUNCIL

 

Councilmember Wythe thanked Mr. Shannon for his comments, agreeing that Council only has one access of finances, through sales tax and property tax. We only collect what the community is willing to contribute. We have to take a serious look at what is more important. There are hard decisions to look at and she hopes people never feel like we are not listening. At the end of the road the amount of money people are willing to contribute is what it is about. She thanked both Sam and Dillon for their comments on the Boys and Girls Club and Community Schools. Several people talked about closing the second building at the West Campus. Part of that building is used for storage and the maintenance person’s work space. We can look to see if there is an alternative place for him, although there is viable activity there.

 

Councilmember Roberts thanked the City Manager and staff for the early budget. There are a lot of difficult decisions to make; a good process has started already.

 

Councilmember Lewis echoed the comments of Councilmembers Wythe and Roberts.

Councilmember Howard gave a special salute to city workers for keeping the city well groomed for summer guests, the paving of Freight Dock Road and extending the Spit Trail parking. You build and they will come. The air quality of the harbor is greatly improved with the paving of the road. When the barriers were removed folks put on their brakes; it is a new road. She appreciates citizens’ involvement in government and how you run the city.

 

ADJOURNMENT

 

There being no further business to come before the Council the meeting was adjourned at 10:49 p.m. by Mayor Pro Tempore Dennis Novak. The next Regular Meeting is scheduled for Monday, September 28, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. The next Committee of the Whole is scheduled for Monday, September 28, 2009 at 4:00 p.m. A Worksession is scheduled for Monday, September 28, 2009 at 5:30 p.m. All meetings scheduled to be held in the Homer City Hall Cowles Council Chambers located at 491 E. Pioneer Avenue, Homer, Alaska.

 

________________________________

JO JOHNSON, CMC, CITY CLERK

 

Approved: _______________________