HomeMy WebLinkAbout1995-10-03 Minutes407
MINUTES OF A MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
A meeting of the Fayetteville City Council was held on Tuesday,
October 3, 1995 at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Room of the City
Administration Building, 113 W. Mountain, Fayetteville, Arkansas.
PRESENT: Mayor Fred Hanna; Aldermen Kit Williams, Cyrus Young,
Steve Parker, Woody Bassett, Jimmy Hill, Len Schaper,
Heather Daniel, and Stephen Miller; City
Clerk/Treasurer Traci Paul; City Attorney Jerry Rose;
members of the staff, press and audience.
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Fred Hanna called the meeting to order with eight aldermen
present.
NOMINATING COMMITTEE REPORT
Alderman Daniel expressed appreciation for those who sent in
applications for the Environmental Concerns Committee.
Daniel, seconded by Williams, made a motion to appoint Robert
Dzur, John King and Diane Montgomery to the Environmental
Concerns Committee and William Curtis Shipley to the Advertising
and Promotion Committee. Upon roll call, the motion passed on a
vote of 8 to 0.
OLD BUSINESS
Mayor Hanna introduced consideration of items that have been
brought before the Council but which were tabled or on which no
decision was made to allow further information to be presented.
A. COST OF CITY SERVICES
Mayor Hanna introduced consideration of an ordinance amending
various chapters of the Fayetteville Code of Ordinances to change
the fees for City services. This item was left on the second
reading at the last Council meeting.
Young, seconded by Parker, moved to suspend the rules and move
the ordinance to the third reading. Upon roll call, the motion
passed on a vote of 8 to 0.
City Attorney Jerry Rose read the ordinance for the third and
final time.
Mayor Hanna opened the floor for discussion by the Council
members.
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October 3, 1995
Alderman Williams proposed a change on the Sign Permit Fee. The
current sign permit fee is based in part on the size of the sign
while the proposed fee is set at $85 regardless of sign size. It
would be more equitable to base the fee on sign.size to ensure
that an individual or small business wishing to put up a
relatively small wooden sign would not be paying the same fee as
a large shopping center putting up a large, electrical sign which
might cause more work for inspectors.
Alderman Williams suggested that the permit fee be $10 plus $1
per square foot. He asked for an amendment under section 158.22
reflecting this change.
Alderman Parker stated that he had no objection to the amendment
as a friendly gesture to smaller businesses.. He explained that
there is no more work done on large signs than small signs. He
suggested a "whereas" clause to be included to justify smaller
fees for smaller signs. •
Alderman Williams stated there'would be additional costs
connected with an electrically lit sign with different inspection:
needs as opposed to a smaller, non -electric sin.
I•n response to a question from Alderman Hill, City Attorney. Jerry.
Rose stated that the current' ordinance -:.reads "$10 plus ten^'cents
per square foot of sign face." .
In further response to the question from Alderman Hill, Planning
Director Alett Little stated the size -of the sign permitted is
dependent upon zoning and how far it is set back from the
property line.
Alderman Hill asked if it was true the size of the sign has
nothing to do with the size of the business.
Alderman Williams stated that the amendment he is suggesting
would tie the size of the fee to the size of the sign, -as does
the current ordinance.
Alderman Parker stated the cost of the proposed amendment is a
lot closer to the real costs of installing a sign than the
current fee and it is in the spirit of the kind of changes the
new ordinance is making.
In response to a question from Alderman Miller, Alett Little
stated the largest sign allowed is 150 sq. feet along controlled
access highways, with the exception that in some commercial areas
a 250 sq. ft. sign (or 20% of'the face of the building, whichever
is larger) is allowed. Generally the maximum size sign allowed
is 75.sq. ft. placed 40 feet back from the property line, thus
making the fee around $85..
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October 3, 1995
Little further stated that maximum size of signs varies with
every zoning.
Alderman Schaper stated he is in favor of keeping a sliding scale
on the fee. However, in light of the fact that this fee has not
been changed for some time and the fees are generally being
raised under this ordinance to make up for a great deal of
inflation, he suggested the base fee be raised to $25 plus $1 per
sq. ft.
Alderman Williams explained that he would stick with his original
amendment making the fee $10 plus $1 per sq. ft. He stated this
is a more appropriate fee for those who wish to put up a very
small sign.
Alderman Schaper agreed but stated $30 to $35 was not an
unreasonable fee for putting up a small sign.
Alderman Hill stated the actual costs for putting up a sign in
1991 was $83.72 regardless of the size of the sign. The Council
should keep that in mind. He also stated that inspection of a
lighted sign was a fee on top of the original fee.
Alett Little clarified that installation of a lighted sign
requires a licensed electrical contractor and there is a separate
calculation for neon which is included in the calculation of the
square footage for the sign.
Williams, seconded by Bassett, moved that the amendment as
proposed by Williams be approved.
Mayor Hanna asked for any comments from the audience. There were
none.
Upon roll call, the amendment passed on a vote of 8 to 0.
Mayor Hanna asked for any further comment from the audience
regarding the original ordinance. There being no comment, Mayor
Hanna returned discussion back to the Council.
Upon roll call, the ordinance passed on a vote of 8 to 0.
ORDINANCE 3925 APPEARS ON PAGE OF ORDINANCE BOOK
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October3, 1995
B. NOISE ORDINANCE
Mayor Hanna introduced consideration of an ordinance repealing
Section 96.04 of the Code of Fayetteville and substituting anew
Section 96.04 limiting noise-levels'within land use -categories,
establishing noise levels.for'transierit-and construction°sounds
and providing for related. matters.and:adding Section 96.05 (D):to
the Code of Fayettevilleprohibiting."operation.of any'sound
amplification devise within a vehicle plainly audible at a
distance of 30 feet.
Mayor Hanna explained thatthis is an amended ordinance.
Young, seconded by Bassett,
the ordinance to the third'
call,.the motion passed on
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:moved to suspend the rules -and move.
reading and final reading: Upon roll
a''vote of'B to O.
City Attorney Rose read the ordinance for the third time and
final time.
Alderman Schaper offered two amendments to the .ordinance.. He
suggested amending the maximum'dBA:`leSels-in commercial'zones to
75 dBAcfram 7:00 a.m. to'llc-00 p.m.,and 70 dBA from 11:00-p:m: to
700 a.'m! so that the commercial aohes are in conformance with
residential and industrial zones.which"both have daytiMe and
nighttime levels.
He further suggested amending the ordinance with the addition of
one sentence to be placed after thettable of maximum noise
levels. The sentence would read, 'Ali:measurements shall -be
taken with a sound level meter in its 'fast' or 'peak' reading
setting."
Alderman Schaper explained that sound_:level meters come with a
switch that says "peak or average", or.."fast-or slow", depending
on the brand. In the "slow"' or "average" setting, the sound
meter averages the sound level:over"acoiuple of seconds. In the
"fast" or "peak" level, it'.responds to more. instantaneous changes
in the sound level.
Since music is clearly the problem and it. is the bass punctuation
of that music that is the biggest problem, the sound level should
be defined on the "fast":setting to respond to those bass.,levels
as opposed to the "slow" setting which would average those levels
with other levels within that period'of-time and would not
measure the bass thumps. It's the bass thumps that travel
through people's walls and cause themto stay awake at night.
Alderman Schaper stated this is just a minor clarification=of
this section of the ordinance,
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October 3, 1995
In response to a question from Alderman Young, Alderman Schaper
explained that there is a separate switch on the sound level
meter from the one for frequency response, which is also
addressed in the ordinance.
In response to a question from Alderman Daniel, Alderman Schaper
stated that he did not know how the sound level meters are
currently being set.
In response to a question from Alderman Young, Alderman Schaper
stated that he assumed the police's sound meter does have this
switch as every meter he has ever seen does have it.
Upon being asked for input by Mayor Hanna, Lieutenant Helder of
the Fayetteville Police Department stated that he did not know
whether the sound meter used by the police department has a
switch such as described by Alderman Schaper but he would find
out and report back to the Council.
Alderman Daniel stated that all along she has been hearing
complaints about the bass sounds. This amendment would be a way
to control those particular sounds which are the source of so
many complaints.
Mayor Hanna suggested, as the Council waits for further
information regarding the sound meter used by the police
department, that the meeting be opened for public comment.
The decision was made to put the amendment on hold and open the
floor to audience comment.
Jack Hignet stated he was affiliated with Powerhouse Seafood and
Grill which has outdoor music. He expressed concern that some of
the Council has never used a sound meter. He stated that
Powerhouse uses the "high" setting because it is the easiest way
to determine sound level. He expressed appreciation that
Alderman Young had worked with him in measuring sound levels at
all points of the Powerhouse property.
Hignet stated the ordinance being proposed is a pretty good one.
He stated this would be the last weekend of outdoor music and he
invited the members of the Council to come down to his
establishment, take a reading to clarify, for themselves, what 75
dBA, 80 dBA, 90 dBA, etc., really are. He explained that when
they were measuring the level at 90 dBA on their patio, they were
getting no complaints.
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October 3, 1995
Hignet explained that the backside of his patiois within:a,.few
inches of the back of the stage at Powerhouse. On the front of
his physical address, you are:50 to 70 yards from the'stage.';.He
expressed confusion on where the officers would read the noise _
level in the event of a complaint being filed. He suggested
taking a reading a setnumber of feet from the source instead'of
at the property line.
Hignet stated it is only fair to every party involved to have the
Council members hear the actual sound levels and measure them
themselves before they take a vote so that theyare completely
clear as to what they are voting on.
Hignet mentioned a subject discussed at a prior meeting about
noise levels of construction and the length of time allowed on a
building permit, whether it be 90 days; 120 days, or whatever.
With this in -mind, he stated that most establishments only have,
outdoor music three or four months of the'year. ._
Hignet stated that there has teen discussion about no longer
having outdoor music in'September because of school obligations,
etc.
He stated there is a lot of room for outdoor music establishments
to work with the City. He explained that`he had spoken with
several police officers recently and based on information he has
received, complaints have'been almost -non-existent regarding
noise -,coming from the Powerhouse and Georges. He stated more
progress has been made in the:last couple of months than has been
made -in the past couple of years. Sincethere will be several
months now without outdoor music, the Council can take time to
check out noise levels fo"r themselves and make absolutely' sure
they are comfortable with what they are voting on.
Rose Gurgretch, a resident'in the Wilson Park neighborhood,
stated that the reason people -.haven't been calling and,
complaining lately is not because the noise isn't bothering them
but because complaints in the past haven't helped.
Allen White thanked the aldermen for'all•the work they had done
on the ordinance. He agreed:that:there had been fewer complaints
recently because it had done no good in the past to complain'
The old ordinance does not work. On Sunday the noise was very.
bad and coming from the Powerhouse, but therewas no use in
calling in a complaint because it would not do any good.
He stated he is not against.thelbands.having their music as long
as it does not disturb the people living around it. If all bandth
have to play at the same'level, he 'could not see how limiting the
noise level could hurt them.
October 3, 1995
413
Bill Long stated he had lived in the area all his life and he
felt that Dickson Street, just like the University, is
intertwined with the City. Not everyone can be made happy. He
stated that if anyone wishes to have a home in this area, they
have to put up with the music. It is not right to make the bands
reduce the level of their music since they have been doing it for
20 to 25 years. If people want to destroy their ears listening
to the loud music, that is their responsibility.
Charles Axel of 455 W. Cleburn stated he had spoken to several of
the Councilmen. He stated that he disagrees with the previous
speaker, although he respects his opinion. He explained that he
frequents the establishments concerned and listens to music quite
often. He stated that he lives one block north of Wilson Park
and last Friday night he heard a loud thumping noise on his
windows and coming through his walls. He followed the sound
straight to Jackson's. It was very distinct even coming from
that far. He stated it was 1:30 a.m. before the music lessened.
Axel stated something needs to be done. The high volume is not
the problem. It is the low frequency bass that thumps on the
windows and walls.
Axel stated the music can be enjoyable, but it has to be
reasonable. He suggested taking the bass more into account in
the sound reading, perhaps phasing down the volume incrementally
through the evening. He expressed his support for measuring
sound from the source.
In response to a question from Alderman Daniel, Axel stated that
he had called the police twice. Upon measuring the first time,
they stated that they did not show a violation. The sound meter,
measuring from the source of complaint, is not going to catch the
low frequency bass sounds.
There being no further comment from the audience, Mayor Hanna
closed the public hearing and turned the discussion back to the
Council.
In response to a question from Alderman Miller, Alderman Daniel
stated that under her ordinance, the sound level discussed by the
previous speaker would be measured from the property line at the
source.
Alderman Parker stated that the sound can be measured either from
the property line of the source to see if there is a violation of
the standards for a commercial zone, or it can be measured at the
boundary of the residential area to see if it exceeds the
standards for a residential zone.
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October 3;'1995
There was some discussion regarding zoning:.and-where measurements
would be taken.
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Lieutenant Helder of the Fayetteville Police Department stated
that he had found that the meter used by the police department
has a fast and slow setting and that officers presently:take
readings on the fast setting.
Schaper, seconded by Hill, moved to amend the times in the
commercial zone from "at all times" to 75 decibels.from-7:00 a.m.'
to 11:00 p.m. and 70 decibels:from 11:004).m. to 7:00 a:m: Upon
roll call, the motion was'passed on avote of 6 to 2, with Young
and Bassett voting no.
Schaper, seconded by Hill, moved that all readings be taken at
the peak level setting of the•sound.meter. Upon roll call, the
motion passed on a vote of 7 to 1; with Miller voting no.
Alderman Bassett commented that in a perfect world, a perfect
ordinance could be created. - However; after all the work and
discussion that has gone into this ordinance, it is about the
best that the Council can..do. There has been a great deal of
improvement with the.clubs:working with neighbors to try -to solve'
the problem. There -are competing -.interests, involved._and;:there
can be no a perfect -solution.:
Alderman Bassett stated he voted against Alderman Schaper's
amendment because he believes that 75 dBA is appropriate 'and, -
should not disturb anyone. This opinion was based on his,own
personal involvement in this issue.for the past four or fire'
years as a private attorney representing one of the clubs before
he was on the Council and:then his experience, on the Council w>
Alderman Bassett stated that though he does not agree with
everything on the ordinance, he does agree that sound levels•rieed
to be measured at the boundary line of the source so:the
ordinance can be enforced•and.he hopes'that this ordinance will
be one everyone can work'and live with.
Alderman Parker commented if this ordinance passes tonight, it
will not take affect for 30 days.
Mayor Hanna stated that the officer who investigated the.
complaint made by Mr. Axel did go down to Jackson's and iackson's
did try to comply. The officer was not convinced the noise was
coming from Jackson's. He found:where someone connected with the
University had been using a large -boom box up by Old Main but
they were moving the trailer when he"got'up there at 1:30 a.m:
after finally locating them:
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October 3, 1995
Mayor Hanna stated that sometimes it is hard to tell where the
noise is actually coming from unless you are able to find the
source and measure it there. Jackson's would likely have passed
the test on Friday night and someone else would still have been
causing the noise. This ordinance will make that a little easier
to discern.
Alderman Daniel thanked the police officers who worked with her
this summer in helping her measure the decibel levels. She
stated she enjoyed talking to everyone she spoke with during this
time, including business owners, patrons of all ages on Dickson
Street, and musicians.
Alderman Daniel also thanked the Council members for their
support.
Alderman Williams stated he had planned to vote against the
ordinance but had now decided to vote for it. He stated the
reason for his decision was the last sentence under subsection A
that says the complaint must be brought by a property owner or
leaseholder affected by the excessive noise on their property.
That is a good addition to the ordinance. The ordinance has
been drafted very well, and he hopes it will resolve the issue.
Alderman Miller expressed appreciation for Alderman Daniel's work
on the ordinance. He stated he likes the idea of 75 dBA early in
the evening to allow for good music. It is an improvement to
measure from the source rather than the source of complaint,
which is very difficult. In the spirit of cooperation and
experimentation, he stated he would support the ordinance.
Alderman Parker expressed thanks to Alderman Daniel for her work
and to the folks involved with producing the music for their
cooperation. He also thanked all the people who had come out pro
and con on this issue. He stated there had been more civic
involvement in this problem than on any other single issue he can
remember and community involvement in the political process makes
the Council's job much easier.
Upon roll call, the ordinance passed on a vote of 8 to 0.
ORDINANCE 3926 APPEARS ON PAGE OF ORDINANCE BOOK
CONSENT AGENDA
Mayor Hanna introduced consideration of items which may be
approved by motion, or contracts and leases which can be approved
by resolution, and which may be grouped together and approved
simultaneously under a "Consent Agenda:"
A. Minutes of the September 19 City Council meeting.
416
C
October 3, 1995
Removedfrom. the Consent by:request of Alderman
Young.
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A resolution granting three utility easements as
required for the installation of utilities to and on
the Southeast Fayetteville Community. Center site.
RESOLUTION 123-95 AS RECORDED IN THE CITY CLERK'S OFFICE:
D. A resolution awarding a construction contract to
Fayette Tree and Trench in the amount of $93,465.20
plus 106. project contingency of $9,346:52 for water
line replacements for Sheryl Avenue,Glenn Lane and
Bonnie Lane.
RESOLUTION 124-95 AS RECORDED IN THE CITY CLERK'S•OFFICE.
E. A resolution amending the City's July 1, 1995,
agreement with. the State Board of Finance concerning
the turnback of sales and income tax funds for the
Continuing Education Center,. which is necessitated due
to the refunding of the CEC'revenue bonds.
RESOLUTION 125-95 AS RECORDED IN THE CITY -CLERK'S OFFICE,
F. A resolution amending the Rules of.'Order and Procedure
by adding Section G.4, Disclosure Setting Expectations
of Council members -to disclose certain real estate,
business and financial interests._•
RESOLUTION 126-95 AS RECORDED IN THE:CITY'CLERK'S OFFICE.
Miller, seconded by Williams, moved that -the Consent Agenda: be ;
approved. Upon roll call, the motion passed on a vote of S to O:• -
Item B
Mayor Hanna introduced for consideration a resolution approving a t.
budget adjustment in the amountof$25,200 and awarding Bid #95-
63 to Star Systems Corporation for the purchase of an advanced
computer system for the Police Department.
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Alderman Young expressed his support of the resolution but wanted
to point out a concern. He questioned why this change order was;
being approved for upgrading the computer system at the police
department when the fire department has yet to receive any
computers.
Alderman Young stated he had spoken with Fire Chief Mickey
Jackson and Data Processing Manager Scott Huddleston and found
that though this resolution would upgrade the police department's
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October 3, 1995
mainframe computer, the fire department would also be able to tap
into this same system. The problem is that the fire department
does not have the physical equipment to access the system at this
time.
Alderman Young pointed out that there appears to be a bottleneck
somewhere in that either the money is not coming through to
provide the fire department with computers or they have not been
requested. He stated he does not know where the bottleneck is,
but is very concerned that the fire department is not on the
computer system while the computer system is being upgraded for
the police department.
Young, seconded by Hill, moved that the resolution be approved.
Upon roll call, the motion passed on a vote of 8 to 0.
RESOLUTION 127-95 AS RECORDED IN THE CITY CLERK'S OFFICE.
1995 PROPERTY TAXES
Mayor Hanna introduced consideration of an ordinance adopting the
real and personal property tax rates for 1995 for fire and police
pensions. The rate to be adopted is 0.5 mils on real and
personal property for fire pension and 0.5 mils on real and
personal property for police pension.
City Attorney Jerry Rose read the ordinance for the first time.
Williams, seconded by Young, made a motion to suspend the rules
and move the ordinance to the second reading. Upon roll call,
the motion passed on a vote of 8 to 0.
City Attorney Rose read the ordinance for the second time.
Miller, seconded by Young, made a motion to suspend the rules and
move the ordinance to the third and final reading. Upon roll
call, the motion passed on a vote of 8 to 0.
City Attorney Rose read the ordinance for the third and final
time.
Mayor Hanna explained that this was simply a renewal of the 1 mil
for police and fire pension funds. This must be revoted every
year to make it legal. There has been no change and no one's
taxes will change.
Upon roll call, the ordinance passed on a vote of 8 to 0.
ORDINANCE 3927 APPEARS ON PAGE OF ORDINANCE BOOK
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October 3, 1995
REZONING R95-24, R95-25, & R95-25.1
Mayor Hanna introduced consideration of an ordinance (R95-24)
rezoning 59.48 acres located east of Gregg, north of 71 Bypass,...
and west of 71 Business from A-1, Agricultural and R-1, Low
Density Residential to R-0, Residential -Office as requested by
Mel Milholland on behalf of NANCHAR, Inc. and Marjorie Brooks.
The Planning Commission voted 7-2-0 to recommend the rezoning.
Mayor Hanna
submitted.
the Council
at one time
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explained that there were actually three rezonings
Each ordinance will have to be read separately but if
prefers, all comments and'discussion can be handled
It was decided to read all ordinances for the first time and
leave them on the first reading.
Mayor Hanna introduced consideration of an ordinance (R95-25)
rezoning 10.61 acres from A-1, Agricultural to C-1, Neighborhood
,Commercial and 30.07 acres from A-1, Agricultural and R-1, Low
Density Residential to C-1, Neighborhood Commercial as requested
by,Mel Milholland on behalf of NANCHAR, Inc. and Marjorie Brooks.•
Property is located east of Gregg, north of 71 Bypass and west of
71 Business.
The•Planning Commission voted 7-2-0 to recommend the rezoning
•with restrictions.
Mayor Hanna introduced consideration of an ordinance (R95=25.1)
rezoning 200.62 acres from A-1, Agricultural to C-2., Thoroughfare
Commercial and 8.99 acres from A-1, Agricultural to 0-2,
Thoroughfare Commercial as requested by Mel Milholland on behalf
of NANCHAR, Inc. and Marjorie Brooks. Property is located east
of Gregg, north of 71 Bypass, and west of 71 Business.
The Planning Commission voted 6-3-0 to recommend the rezoning
with restrictions.
City Attorney Rose read the ordinance for rezoning R95-24 for the
first time.
City Attorney Rose read the ordinance for rezoning R95-25 for the
first time.
City Attorney Rose read the ordinance for rezoning R95-25.1 for
the first time.
Alderman Schaper moved that all rezoning requests be tabled.
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October 3, 1995
Alderman Schaper stated the Planning Commission is required by
the Fayetteville zoning code to submit in writing to the Council
the reasons why they have approved a rezoning. In the
instructions to the Planning Commission on this, they were
reminded of the required findings they are supposed to make in
this rezoning, including determining the degree to which the
proposed rezoning is consistent with the land use planning
objectives, principles, policies, etc.
Alderman Schaper explained that he could find nothing in the
record that the Planning Commission made the required findings.
Schaper stated the issue should be tabled and sent back to the
Planning Commission so those findings can be made.
Alderman Schaper stated the second reason for moving the
ordinances be tabled was that part of the package calls for some
restrictive covenants between the developers of this property and
surrounding neighbors. If the Council were to act on this, the
City would become a party to whichever covenants had been agreed
to between the neighbors and developers. He stated he had not
seen these covenants and asked whether City Attorney Rose had
seen them. Having been informed that he had not, Alderman
Schaper stated action should not be taken on this until the City
Attorney has reviewed the covenants and determined that they were
indeed legal covenants.
Mayor Hanna asked why Alderman Schaper would want to table the
issue rather than leave it on its first reading.
Alderman Schaper stated the proper action would be to return the
matter to the Planning Commission. He stated that although the
Commission had made their vote, they had not done what the by-
laws require them to do. The Council needs the findings in order
to vote on these rezonings.
Alderman Young stated the Planning Commission can write those
findings up and forward them to the Council without tabling the
ordinances. The Council can simply leave the ordinances on their
first reading.
Alett Little stated that when the staff made the initial report
on this, they did go through the required findings to be made by
the Planning Commission and it is generally accepted that when
they take the vote on those they are accepting the staff's
recommendations with regard to those findings. She explained
she was aware of no other zoning action taken by the Council in
the three and a half years she has been here that those findings
have been provided for the Council. She stated this zoning
action is being treated differently from those in the past.
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October 3 1995
Little explained she has no problemwith asking the -Planning•.-,>
Commission to formally act on those findings if that iswhat the
Council wants to see.. The next meeting of the Planning
Commission will be on October 9.
In response to a question from Mayor Hanna, Little stated they
could have the results by the time the Council meets again on
October 17. -
Alderman Schaper stated the issue should be returned to the
Planning Commission for further consideration.
Alderman Parker stated there would be a. stronger argument for::
this than for most projebts. The Mall is on 100 acres of C-2
property and this is proposing 200 acres of C-2 property and
another 100 acres of C-1 property. The traffic changes'and.the
changes it would bring to the City would merit a good-hard'look
by the Planning. Commission.
Alderman Williams stated the Planning Commission had.given the
matter a good hard look. This has been before the Planning
Commission many times and commercial land by the Mall is property
where commercial land should be located. 4.
Alderman Schaper stated he did not wantto get.intosecond.-
guessing the Planning Commission but they shout± be heldto their
by-laws which say they have to discuss and make findings on
particular items. There is no indication in their minutes that
they have made these findings. Nor is there a written.
recommendation giving the reasons why this is being recommended.':
to the Council so the Council does not have to debate .the whole
issue again at their meeting;
Alderman Bassett stated the City Council, by law,alwayshas the
prerogative to second guess a commission because the Council has
the final say on the issues. In almost every instance this year,
the Planning Commission has been very interested in discovering -
facts and -listening to people. They have spent a lot of time on•
this particular development,. studying the facts and trying•to
make sure they knew what this was all about and the implications
it would have. -
Alderman Bassett explained he was not suggesting -the Council
should not have an open debate on this development;'but in
defense of the Planning Commission, he' stated -they did a great
job'studying this project so they.could understand all.that was
involved in the project and make a recommendation to the Council.
Alderman Bassett stated in -view of allthe time, effort. and ..
energy that has already -been invested in this issue, the Council
should go ahead and movethrough the process.
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October 3, 1995
Alderman Williams called the Council's attention to the history
of this issue. On July 10, at the first Planning Commission
public hearing, the applicant was requested to provide additional
information. On August 7, a special Planning Commission meeting
was held to hear additional information. On August 28, the
second Planning Commission public hearing action was postponed
until the staff could review and present recommendations to the
Planning Commission on the development plan and traffic to be
generated. Finally, a third public hearing was held on September
11.
This particular parcel of land has been before the Planning
Commission since July. They have studied it very diligently.
It would not be proper now for the Council to send it back to
them.
Alderman Williams explained he was comfortable using what the
Planning Commission has provided and their recommendation to the
Council as presented by their votes. He stated he was not in
favor of tabling the issue and sending it back to the Planning
Commission.
Alderman Parker stated that he thought he made a misstatement
earlier regarding the C-1 area. He asked for clarification from
Little regarding what the actual acreage is.
Little stated there were actually 40.68 acres involved.
Alderman Hill stated if the Council does not have the covenants
involved in this rezoning in their packets, the Council cannot
vote on the matter.
Alderman Bassett stated he would not vote without the covenants
but the issue should not be sent back to the Planning Commission.
Mayor Hanna stated in going through the regular process, it will
be a month before the Council actually votes on this issue and
they will have the covenants by that time. If no action is taken
tonight, the matter will be on its second reading at the next
meeting.
Alderman Young stated he would like to caution the developers
about the covenants. He requested the covenants not be given to
the Council right before the vote is taken on the third reading.
Alett Little stated that the covenants had been filed in her
office. The staff has had the first set since the first hearing.
The second set is not a covenant but a bill of assurance. She
explained she had refused to forward this to the Council until
she had a copy of the second set.
•
•
422
October -3, 1995
Little stated the Council is frequently handed bills of assurance
the night of the meeting. It is not an extremely unusual
situation for the Council not to have this in their packet. If
the -Council chooses, they will get these in their packet in the
future and in plenty of time for the next meeting.
Alderman Schaper stated he would still like to know where the
Planning Commission has made a determination of the degree to
which the proposed zoning is consistent with land use planning,
objectives, principles and policies and with land use and zoning
plans. In the memo from staff to the Planning Commission, it
basically states that the proposed zoning is in no way consistent
with the approved land use plan. He stated that either the
Commission had decided to ignore that fact or has decided to
overrule the land use plan in making this determination. He
would like to know if they made a determination as to whether the
proposed zoningwould create or appreciably increase traffic
danger and congestion.
In response to a question from Alderman Bassett, Little stated
the General Plan 2010 shows about two thirds of this area being
residential, and one third commercial. She called the Council's
attention.to the fact that by simply saying this.property.is
residential in the 2010 Plan, it does not exclude-use.of-the
property as R-0 (Residential/Office).
Alderman Williams stated ,he voted in favor of the 2010'Plan but
thought the map provided to the Council was very vague. He
stated he would not have supported this area as being primarily
residential. Commercial is probably the best use for a large
portion of this property. He expressed support for the newer
2020 Plan which lists more commercial area here.
Little stated the reason the word "general" isincluded in the
Land Use Plan is because the plan is not intended to be specific.
It is intended to be a guide. There are no set boundaries and
the judgement of the Planning Commission is to•be used to make
land use decisions.
Schaper, seconded by Hill, moved that the rezonings'be:tabled and
returned to the Planning Commission for further consideration.
Upon roll call, the motion tied on a vote of 4 to 4, with Miller,
Williams, Young, and Bassett voting no. Mayor Hanna broke the
tie and voted against the motion. The motion failed.
Mel Milholland, representing the petitioners; introduced Jim
Erwin and explained that Mr. Erwin had been instrumental in
working on the development. -
423
October 3, 1995
Jim Erwin stated he has a commercial real estate business in
Little Rock with a branch office in Springdale. In an effort to
try to address some of the issues raised by the Planning
Commission, a team was assembled including Mel Millholland, a
civil engineer; Ernie Peters, who is a traffic engineer; and Mark
Robertson who is a land planner.
Erwin stated that the Planning Commission had asked the
developers many questions regarding traffic, the proposed use of
the property, the impact on the community, etc. To answer these
questions, they prepared a land use map of this property.
The plan presented to the Council represents a negotiated plan
with the input of the staff, residential neighbors and various
retailers in the area, etc. They have reached what they consider
to be a very reasonable land use plan for this property.
Alderman Williams stated that one of his primary concerns is the
green area by the creek. He hoped there would be some sort of
assurance that this area would remain a green space.
Erwin stated that this area contains approximately 36 acres and
they do plan to leave it as a green area in as natural a state as
they possibly can.
Alderman Miller echoed what Alderman Williams said about the
green space.
In response to a question from Alderman Schaper, Erwin stated
they did not know at this time who would build the hotels noted
on the plan. The petitioners would not be building the hotels.
In response to a second question from Alderman Schaper, Erwin
stated that there was no guarantee that these sites would ever be
used for hotels. It could be developed in any way that falls
under the C-2 category.
In response to a further question from Alderman Schaper, Erwin
stated that they had done at least seven traffic studies for
different kinds of uses on this property. The traffic count
numbers presented to the Council are based on the negotiated plan
on which everyone has agreed.
The Planning Commission had asked the petitioners to come up with
some plan of how this property might be used and marketed. This
plan represents what the land planner sees could or should be
done with the property.
Alderman Schaper stated that he agrees that the plan is admirable
but if the rezoning is approved, there is absolutely no guarantee
that any of this land will develop in the way it is indicated on
this plan.
424
October 3, 1995
Erwin stated that at this point no marketing had been done..and,.no
plans have been established as to how they are going to. develop
the property. They have simply tried to come. up with.a plan
that is acceptable to the city of Fayetteville and neighboring
land owners so they can proceed with the process.
Alderman Schaper stated that there is a big difference between
what might go on the property and what can goon it after it is
rezoned. The fact that the petitioners are basically going to
sell lots to people who want to come in and build means that it's
a wide open playing field.
Erwin stated that they were asked to come up with a reasonable
way this property might be developed and that is what they have:
done. -
Alderman Schaper stated the request was made because the general
land use plan says that anything larger than five acres.should be
done as a planned unit development with' all of the covenants,
restrictions and guarantees that go with a planned unit
development.
• Alderman.Bassett asked City Attorney Rose if this was°something,.
the'Council had a right. to ask.and get ananswer to.
,City Attorney Rose stated the...Council is -on the right.track; The
idea is that when the Council rezones a piece of property, it is
rezoned'.for a variety of different uses as listed within the
zoning ordinance. It is a natural tendency for people to want to
know precisely what is going to be developed in a particular
area, especially when trying to estimate things such as traffic
density. Because of this, you do have to come up with some
projections about what you think should or should not be on the
plan. It is perfectly proper for the Council to question those
projections and find out if they are reasonable or unreasonable.
However, it is not proper to
as to what he or she intends
decision regarding rezoning.
scale development level, not
question the developer specifically
to do as a basis for the Council's
Thisshould be done at the large
at the zoning level.
Alderman Bassett stated that once again the Council is starting
to do the'job of the Planning Commission.
Alderman Schaper stated that the point is that these specific
uses have no basis in fact. The Council must plan for the most
intense uses that might go on -C-2 land.
Alderman Williams expressed his disagreement that the Council has
to assume the most intense uses of the land.
425
October 3, 1995
Alderman Schaper stated they have to assume some reasonable mix.
If someone comes along and offers a reasonable amount of money
for a lot of frontage land, the petitioners will very likely sell
it to them, regardless of whether they will build a hotel on it
or not.
Erwin stated they prefer to see hotels built on this frontage
because they feel it is the best use of the property. He
explained that they tried to come up with a balance where each
use of the property would complement the other. If they try to
deviate too much from the plan, things will get out of balance
and they will suffer.
He stated that he does appreciate Alderman Schaper's comments but
he feels that it makes sense that, given the location of the
area, some commercial development is needed in this general area.
They have tried to come up with a plan that will not only handle
any traffic generated by their development but will relieve some
of the traffic for the Mall and the Spring Creek development.
Alderman Parker stated that the point brought to the Council when
they were asked to lift the moratorium for this project was that
with the first building in this area, the north -south road that
would go into the back of the Mall would be built. At the agenda
session, Erwin said there is no immediate plan for doing this,
that the east -west corridor would be built first along the Joyce
Street extension. Therefore, the reason for lifting the
moratorium is not even going to be part of the initial project.
Erwin stated the proposal was that the entire property be zoned
C-2.
Alderman Parker stated when this was brought before the Council,
it was mentioned what the rezoning would be.
Erwin stated that the petitioners proposed to go ahead and build
the road. At the agenda session they had simply stated they
would like to build the road when development occurred. This
plan is going to happen over maybe a ten year time period. To
build all the roads on the front end would get things out of
balance.
They would like to get Joyce Street constructed and when
development occurs, build the north -south street. He suggests
that if they start designing the road tomorrow, it will take 6 to
8 months to design and 12 to 18 months to build the bridge and
the road. Because they are not ready to start planning tomorrow,
reasonably it might be three years before the road is built.
426
October 3, 1995
Alderman Young stated that his
built it is not piecemealed in.
whether he was saying that the
time at the point in time when
concern was that when the road.is..
He asked Erwin to clarify
road would be put in all at one
the development is started up.
Erwin agreed that this was correct.
Alderman Hill stated that until that road is put in, the
petitioners are not relieving any traffic congestion, only adding
to is as lots are sold. This is the concern of. the Council. He
stated that the timetable is also a concern for him. If it is
going to take that long to construct the road, the petitioners
had better get started now.
Alderman Hill stated it was his understanding that they would
have to get a Corps of Engineers permit. He asked what would
happen if the Corps said theycould not have the bridge.
•
•
Erwin stated the Corps of Engineers involves about nine acres of
wetlands.
=
i
In response to a question from Alderman Bassett, Mr. Milholland
agreed that the Planning Commission:had=.asked, these- questions. and
the petitioners had answered them.1
Erwin.. stated' that anything that- has -to go across: the:floodviay"has
to go to the Corps of Engineers for a'permit. This is standard
and not something the Corps wintry to keep them from doing.
Mayor Hanna
possibly. be
petitioners
stated that he could count three lots that could
developed on Joyce Street. He asked if the
were participating in the improvement of Joyce St.
Kevin Crosson stated that it
contribution of right-of-way
also plan to upsize from the
that north -south road.
was their understanding that the -
will be made and the petitioners
two lanes the City will put in up to
Alderman Hill questioned whether this property adjoins the Mall.
It was indicated that it does.
Milholland stated that they have a. verbal agreement with the Mall
to allow the future phase - called phase 3 - to tie into the Mall
parking lot.
There was a general discussion regarding intentions versus
written promises, particularly with regard to this tie in. The
petitioners stated that it is their objective to tie into the
Mall parking lot.
•
427
October 3, 1995
Alderman Miller stated that the City Attorney had told them in
the past that when someone says they intend to do something, it
is not binding. If a decision is to be made predicated on an
advantage that might be made to the City by this tie in, it might
be important to have a statement promising the tie in.
Alderman Schaper asked what total traffic generation Ernie Peters
had come up with regarding this project.
Ernie Peters stated that they have projected total 24 hour trips
at full development at 56,238 vehicle trips based on the mix
proposed in the plan.
In response to a question from Alderman Schaper, Peters stated
they had not done a trip generation on mix of C-2, C-1 and R -O
uses that could represent a reasonable maximum. He added that
the traffic that is generated by any particular zoning is
dependant on the use that goes in there. He has based his
calculations on what the land use planners tell him is a
reasonable mix for land on this particular development.
Alderman Schaper expressed the importance of looking at potential
maximum traffic because once the property is rezoned, they have
no control or guarantee that the land will develop as now
planned. He stated that the plan does not show a road going
through to Van Ashe and there just aren't enough ways to get in
and out of this if it is developed the way many areas have
developed.
Peters stated that an east -west connection is proposed as a part
of the plan. It is not shown on the plan submitted to the
Council.
Peters pointed out that the precise design of the infrastructure
of any development will appropriately be addressed as a part of
the City's large scale development process. He stated that to
explore the maximum level of traffic on this particular tract
would give the Council some idea of what the upper limit would be
but, similarly, one could question what the lower limit would be.
He states that he feels his estimates are above what would be a
median value between upper and lower estimates.
Alderman Schaper stated that this is very valuable land and no
one is going to develop it at a very low intensity. It would not
make economic sense.
Alderman Bassett pointed out that the Planning Commission had
covered this ground.
428.
October 3, 1995
Alderman Daniel stated that she felt Alderman Schaper was -asking;
some good questions and is making some good points. She stated
she was generally in favor of the rezoning because the developers
have made a lot of changes. Many of the issues will need to be
addressed in large scale development.
Mayor Hanna opened the floor for audience comment. There being
none, discussion was turned back to the Council.
Alderman Hill stated that his concern was the road. If we can
get the traffic in and out and some help for the Mall traffic
that would ease his concerns.
Alderman Williams stated that though he shares Alderman Hill's
concerns, when the property develops it will have to go through a
large scale development process and the property cannot be
developed without the proper accesses to be built. It is not a
zoning issue. -
Alderman Hill stated it was definitely a zoning issue because
traffic is one of the main issues of rezoning.
City Attorney Rose stated that .traffic is certainly.a
consideration regarding zoning. But is equally rightthat
placement of specific roads and access is not a concern_of:the.
zoningprocess, it is .more the concern of the large-scale
development process.
Alderman Hill stated the information given did not give specifics
regarding this road.. He asked if the petitioners were going to
put the road across the bridgeandif there is an agreement on
that.
Milholland stated that he had a road in the plans splitting the
two zonings. Alett Little had said she would prefer to have it:.
tied into Van Ashe. When the map Was made up, Ms. Little asked
that it not be put in. It will be there eventually. ,.
11.
Alett Little stated that-at.the time of development, the Planning
Commission has the obligation to require every road for access
and adequate traffic management. They will require thetroads
that are necessary. The staff's big issue at this time is how
they tie into the master street plan. There is not enough
engineering data on this site at this time to make this clear.
She wanted the roads left off so there would benoconfusion in
the future.
In response to a question from Alderman Parker, Ms. Little stated
that around 5096 of the development has been completed on the 73
acre parcel just south of the Mall.
429
October 3, 1995
Alderman Parker stated that currently there is about 135 acres
(including the Mall) of commercial property in this area, with
the addition of 275 acres with approval of these developments.
There will be a great impact on traffic. Parker stated he would
like to see some promises in writing regarding some of these
roads. He would also like to see worst-case traffic projections
based on not having motels along the frontage but other types of
commercial development. To avoid contract zoning, the Council
has to consider any use the land might be put to. Parker stated
he would also like to see some specifics on when the road
construction would be started.
Alett Little restated Alderman Parker's request to be sure she
was clear about his requests.
Erwin stated that they have no problem with giving a written
promise of what they are willing to do as far as connecting to
the Mall.
Erwin also stated that Mr. Peter's traffic counts were taken on
the assumption that Spring Creek is fully developed and the
petitioner's property is fully developed.
Peters clarified the issues regarding his traffic projections.
The 56,000 figure mentioned is just associated with this
development. But in placing that traffic around the street
network, he has taken into consideration the existing background
traffic, as well as projections of traffic associated with this
and other developments.
Alderman Parker requested a copy of the map if it could be
reduced and a copy of the full package that the Planning
Commission got.
In response to a question from Alderman Hill regarding the zoning
north of the northmost piece of C-2 property that falls north of
the Mall and Joyce Street, Little stated that she believes that
is the city limits of Johnson. She stated she would get a copy
of the Johnson zoning map.
REZONING R95-33
Mayor Hanna introduced consideration of an ordinance rezoning
1.34 acres located on the northwest corner of Meadow Street and
West Avenue from I-1, Light Industrial to C-3, Central Business
Commercial as requested by Bill Mitchell on behalf of the Walton
Arts Center.
The Planning Commission voted 8-0-1 to recommend the rezoning.
City Attorney Rose read the ordinance for the first time.
430
October 3., 1995
Hill, seconded by Miller, moved
ordinance to the second reading
passed on a vote of 8 to 0.
to suspend the rules' and move the_t s
Upon roll call, the motion
City Attorney Rose read the ordinance for the second time.
Bassett, with a second from Daniel, moved to suspend the. rules
and move the ordinance to the third and final reading.. Upon roll
call, the motion passed on a vote of 8 to 0.
City Attorney Rose read the ordinance for the third time.
Mayor Hanna opened the floor for discussion with the Council. He
then opened the floor for comment from the audience. There was
no discussion.
Upon roll call ;the ordinance passed on a vote of 8 to O.
ORDINANCE 3928 APPEARS ON PAGE OF ORDINANCE BOOK
REZONING R95-34
Mayor Hanna introduced consideration of an .ordinance rezoning
2.58 acres located at 112 N. University from I-1, Light
'Industrial to C -3t, Central Business Commercial as requested•by
Bill Underwood ontbehalf of Powerhouse Seafood:
The.Planning Commission voted 9=0-0 to recommend the rezoning.
City Attorney Rose read the ordinance for the first time.
Hill, seconded by Parker, moved to suspend the rules and move the
ordinance to the second reading. Upon roll call, the motion
passed on a vote of 8 to 0.
City Attorney Rose read the ordinance for the second time.
Hill,seconded by Parker, moved to suspend the rules and move the
ordinance to the third and final reading.- Upon roll call, the --
motion passed on a vote of 8 to 0.
City Attorney Rose read the ordinance for the third time.
Alderman Parker stated that it -was
the request of the City to make it
of the property.
said this was being done at
more consistent'with the use
Upon roll call, the ordinance passed on a vote of 8 to 0.
ORDINANCE 3929 APPEARS ON PAGE OF ORDINANCE BOOK
October 3, 1995
REZONING R95-35
931
Mayor Hanna introduced consideration of an ordinance rezoning
2.44 acres located south of Dickson Street and west of West
Avenue from I-1, Light Industrial to C-3 Central Business
Commercial as requested by the City of Fayetteville.
The Planning Commission voted 9-0-0 to recommend the rezoning.
City Attorney Rose read the ordinance for the first time.
Bassett, seconded by Miller, moved to suspend the rules and move
the ordinance to the second reading. Upon roll call, the motion
passed on a vote of 8 to 0.
City Attorney Rose read the ordinance
Bassett, seconded by
the ordinance to the
the motion passed on
for the
second time.
Daniel, moved to suspend the rules and move
third and final reading. Upon roll call,
a vote of 8 to 0.
City Attorney Rose read the
ordinance for the
Upon roll call, the ordinance passed on
ORDINANCE 3930 APPEARS ON PAGE
S.E. FAYETTEVILLE COMMUNITY CENTER
third time.
a vote of
8 to 0.
OF ORDINANCE BOOK
Mayor Hanna explained that this agenda item had to be postponed.
Requirements for the bids for construction of the Southeast
Fayetteville Community Center had not been spelled out properly
concerning subcontractors so bids had to be relet.
Public Works Director Kevin Crosson stated that bids would be
opened again on October 16.
Mayor Hanna explained that the same bids were expected and there
were no changes in the requirements. However, as a government
grant it requires that subcontractors be listed.
NON -MOTORIZED PASSENGER TRANSPORT SERVICES
Mayor Hanna introduced consideration of an ordinance requiring a
certificate of public convenience and necessity to operate a non -
motorized passenger transport service in the City of
Fayetteville; requiring a non -motorized passenger transport
vehicle driver's permit to operate a non -motorized passenger
transport vehicle for hire upon the streets of the City of
Fayetteville; providing certain requirements for the use of
horses in the operation of the non -motorized passenger transport
432
October 3 ,.; .1995
vehicle; and miscellaneous requirements for the operation..of:the;
non -motorized passenger transport. service.
City Attorney Rose read the ordinance for the first time.
Williams, seconded by Miller, moved.to suspend the rules and move
the ordinance to the second reading. Upon roll call, the motion
passed on a vote of 7 to 0, with Bassett absent.
City Attorney Rose read the ordinance for the second time.
Schaper, seconded by Miller, moved to suspend the rules and move
the ordinance to the third and final reading. Upon roll call,
the motion passed on a vote of 7 to 0, with Bassett absent.0f,
City Attorney Rose read the ordinance for the third and final
time.
Alderman Parker thanked those who will be regulated by this
ordinance for helping to bring high standards to anyfutiire
operations, including their own.
Alderman.Miller also thanked those.people•,andthe,people-at.thez
Humane Society who collaborated.on.the;ordinance: He.•expresseth
his support of horse-drawn•carriages and stated.the.City
showing foresight in seeing that_the industry` is_regulated.and...
the animals well cared for.
In response to a question from Alderman Schaper, City Attorney
Rose explained that this ordinance was adapted from one received
out of Dallas.
Upon'roll call,the ordinance passed on a.vote=of.8 to 0:'
ORDINANCE 3931 APPEARS ON PAGE OF ORDINANCE BOOK
CARRIAGE SERVICE
Mayor Hanna introduced consideration of a:resolution approving a
proposal made by the Fayetteville Carriage Companyto provide
professional -horse drawn carriage service to the Fayetteville
community.
•
•
In response to a question from Alderman Williams, City.Attorney .
Rose stated that if any other groups come in, they will also need
a resolution to approve their service: ,-
Williams, with a second from Miller, moved to approve the
resolution.
433
October 3, 1995
Alderman Schaper expressed concern regarding the proposed route
which would include one block of travel on Hwy 71 (College Ave.
from Meadow to Center). He questioned having horse drawn
carriages on 71.
Alderman Parker felt it might be better to go along the south
side of the square and take a right through the parking lot of
the Federal Building and avoid Hwy 71.
Administrative Services Director Ben Mayes stated there had been
several comments made during staff review of this item and it
says the routes are subject to change in consultation with City
Traffic Superintendent. After consultation with City Attorney
Rose's office, it was decided to wait and let the City Traffic
Superintendent work with the carriage company.
Upon roll call, the resolution passed on a vote
RESOLUTION 129-95 AS RECORDED IN THE CITY CLERK'
CHANGE ORDER
of 8 to 0
S OFFICE,
Mayor Hanna introduced consideration of a resolution approving
Change Order #2 to the construction contract with McClinton
Anchor for the intersection improvements at U.S. 71 and Joyce
Boulevard in the amount of $38,061.75 and approving a budget
adjustment.
Kevin Crosson stated that he had spoken with Mr. Clary and he
indicated he would like to consider and speak with his engineers
about the City's request to put in a fifth lane or fund 61% of
this change order. Crosson explained he would continue to
negotiate this week with him.
Crosson stated that though Mr. Clary was not able to give an
answer today, the Council should still authorize the change order
as the staff continues to try to resolve the issue.
In response to a question from Alderman Williams, Crosson stated
that Clary will pay a minimum of 21% as he had agreed.
In response to a question from Alderman Hill, Crosson stated that
the work had already been completed.
Alderman Hill stated that he would like the City to be mindful of
this potential situation in the future and not get in trouble
again.
Crosson stated that it had been their error and it would not
happen again.
434
October 3, 1995
1
Mayor Hanna explained that the staff had been working'under some'
pressure because certain merchants contributing money toward the
road work were insisting the work be completed:
Alderman Parker stated that maybe the time for demanding
performance of a contractor should be at the time performance did
not occur instead of after an alternative plan has been tried.
Alderman Williams stated that the work had to be done, regardless
of whether the contractor was going to -pay for it because it was
presenting a traffic hazard without the merge lane.
Williams, seconded by Hill, moved to accept the resolution and
approve the budget adjustment. Upon roll call, the motion passed
on a vote of 8 to 0.
RESOLUTION 130-95 AS RECORDED IN THE CITY CLERK'S OFFICE.
COST SHARING AGREEMENT
Mayor Hanna introduced consideration of an ordinance approving ari
agreement with the Salem Village Developers for the cost sharing'
of an 8" water line in connection:with the Salem Village
Subdivision on Salem Road and approving a. waiver -of competitive.
bidding for constructioncosts of $35,000; and.an:ordinance.
prescribing connection fees for'developers tieing onto a.:.new
water line along Salem Road running from the southeast corner of
the Salem Village Subdivision to the south side of Mount Comfort.
Road: '
City Attorney Rose read the first ordinance for the first time.
Williams, seconded by Schaper,m moved to suspend the rules and
moved the ordinance to the second reading. Upon -roll call, the
motion passed on a vote of 8 to 0.
City Attorney Rose read the ordinance for the second time.
Schaper, seconded by
the ordinance to the
the motion passed on
Parker, moved to suspend the rules and move'
third and final reading. Upon roll call,
a vote of 8 to 0.
City Attorney Rose read the ordinance for the
time.
third and final
Mayor Hanna opened the floor for questions for comments. There
were none.
Upon roll call, the ordinance passed on
ORDINANCE 3932 APPEARS ON PAGE
a vote of 8 to 0.
OF ORDINANCE BOOK
r, .
435
October 3, 1995
City Attorney Rose read the second ordinance for the first time.
In response to a question from Alderman Williams, City Engineer
Don Bunn explained the fee was based on the development of 160
acres along Salem Road. It is unlikely that all the acreage will
be developed but likely that there be some additional development
along there.
In response to a question from Alderman Miller, Bunn stated that
the additional fees would cover the cost to the City of the
development if the entire 160 acres are developed.
Alderman Parker stated that he had spoken with Don Bunn about
this and they had agreed that in the future a policy should be
developed to spell out the particulars about how this would go
into affect, what would and would not be required to pay this
fee. The policy should then be brought back to the Council to
explain the procedure.
Alderman Schaper expressed concern regarding how vague the
ordinance is. He wondered if it was possible to show the area
that is benefited by the water line and say when the land inside
that boundary develops, the City would get a certain fee.
Alderman Parker stated that this was what he was talking about
earlier.
In response to a question from Alderman Schaper, Bunn said he
thought it would work to put the area on the map and say this
particular area is the affected area to be charged. He explained
that the problem with the water line is that the line will
benefit a much larger area than just the 160 adjacent acres. It
serves to reinforce a much larger area in there so it is
difficult to pin down the exact acreage. He felt that if you
show a quarter mile on each side of Salem Road and indicated that
this was the area in which the fee would apply, it would work.
Alderman Schaper agreed and felt it would avoid confusion in the
future if it was made clear up front what the affected boundary
is to be.
In response to a question from Alderman Williams, Bunn stated
that with the first ordinance passed, it would be possible to
come back later to the Council with a more specific cost sharing
ordinance.
Alderman Williams asked City Attorney Rose if a new street such
as Salem Road which is a major expense, whether some of the costs
from developers who would in the future build along that street.
436
October 3,- 1995
City Attorney Rose stated that this had been under discussion and
research had been done. The problem is that the Supreme Court
has defined this as a rough proportionality kind of measurement.
It is'a'difficult measurement to determine because those streets
are going to be used for other purposes outside the use of a
particular development.
City Attorney Rose has told Don Bunn that if he is capable
engineer of developing this rough proportionality where it
determined with some degree of certainty exactly what a
developer's rough proportionality of the cost would be, he
be pleased to defend it in court.
as an
can be
will
Alderman Schaper stated that the State Highway Department does
something similar when they authorize the amount they will pay
for condemned land.
In response to a question from Alderman Young, Mr. Crosson stated
that the staff would need to figure out a way to figure this out.
City Attorney Rose explained that this would be very difficult to
do and there had been a number of discussions about how it might
be done. If a formula can be developed, the City can do it.
In response
Rose stated
these roads
a period of
to a question from Alderman Williams, City,Attorney^
that a developer who is developingland alongside
would be required to pay his proportion of .costs for
time.
Alderman Williams stated rough proportionality measurement should
be conservative but he does not feel the City should get nothing.
Mayor Hanna stated that the ordinance prescribing connection fees
for developers tieing onto the water line would be leftl°on its Cr
first reading and at the next meeting there will beya proposal
with more specific language.
OTHER BUSINESS
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE ROUND -UP
Alderman Miller stated there will be a press release in ar''feww'
days about the Household Hazardous Waste Round -up About 450
people participated. There were 50 volunteers and 20 people from
local industries who helped recycle some of the waste. Some
firefighters were also on hand to help out with the Hazmat.
Alderman Miller thanked everyone who worked on this and
participated in this event.
437
October 3, 1995
DEVELOPMENT CONCERN
Alderman Hill expressed concern about a possible gap in an
ordinance passed earlier about developers and at what point they
are able to sell lots.
Alderman Young explained that someone can put up a piece of
property for sale and get a contract on it but is not legally
transferred because that cannot be done without the final plat.
Alderman Parker asked if it wouldn't be best to try to protect
citizens by putting developers under notice if they are known to
be selling lots before the final plat is received.
City Attorney Rose stated he would look into the issue and get
back to the Council at the next agenda meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 9:10 p.m.