HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020-01-07 - Minutes -Council Member Sonia Gutierrez
Ward 1 Position 1
Council Member Sarah Marsh
Ward 1 Position 2
Council Member Mark Kinion
Ward 2 Position 1
Council Member Matthew Petty
Ward 2 Position 2
Mayor Lioneld Jordan
City Attorney Kit Williams
City Clerk Kara Paxton
City of Fayetteville Arkansas
City Council Meeting
January 7, 2020
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 1 of 32
Council Member Sloan Scroggin
Ward 3 Position 1
Council Member Sarah Bunch
Ward 3 Position 2
Council Member Teresa Turk-
Ward
urkWard 4 Position i
Council Member Kyle Smith
Ward 4 Position 2
A meeting of the Fayetteville City Council was held on January 7, 2020 at 5:30 p.m. in Room
219 of the City Administration Building located at 113 West Mountain Street, Fayetteville,
Arkansas.
Mayor Jordan called the meeting to order.
PRESENT: Council Members Sonia Gutierrez, Sarah Marsh, Mark Kinion, Matthew Petty,
Sloan Scroggin, Sarah Bunch, Teresa Turk, Kyle Smith, Mayor Lioneld Jordan, City
Attorney Kit Williams, City Clerk Kara Paxton, Staff, Press, and Audience.
Pledge of Allegiance
Manor's Announcements Proclamations and Reco itions: None
City Council Meeting Presentations, Reports, and Discussion Items:
Election of Vice ill a� o r
Mayor Jordan opened the floor for nominations.
Council Member Marsh: I would like to nominate Council Member Kinion for Vice Mayor.
Mayor Jordan closed the floor for nominations.
Council Member Marsh moved to nominate Council Member Kinion as Vice Mayor. Council
Member Gutierrez seconded the motion. Upon roll call the motion passed unanimously.
Council Member Kinion was elected as Vice Mayor
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www.fayetteviIle-ar.gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 2 of 32
Report of Firemen's and Policemen's Pension and Relief Fund
Mayor Jordan presented the report on the Firemen's Pension and Policemen's Pension to the City
Council.
A copy of the report is attached.
Monthly Financial Report
Paul Becker, Chief Financial Officer gave a summary of the Monthly Financial Report.
Agenda Additions: None
Consent:
Adopt the Rules of Order and Procedure: A resolution to adopt the Rules of Order and
Procedure of the Fayetteville City Council for 2020.
Resolution 01-20 as recorded in the office of the City Clerk
Approval of the December 3, 2019 City Council Meeting Minutes.
Approved
Environmental Consulting Operations, Inc.: A resolution to approve Amendment No. 6 to the
contract with Environmental Consulting Operations, Inc. in the amount of $66,255.00 for wetlands
mitigation site monitoring and management in 2020.
Resolution 02-20 as recorded in the office of the City Clerk
Arkansas State Highway Commission: A resolution to approve a utility relocation agreement
with the Arkansas Department of Transportation for utility relocations related to the I-49 and
Wedington Interchange Project.
Resolution 03-20 as recorded in the office of the City Clerk
City of Farmington Relocation Agreement: A resolution to approve a utility relocation
agreement with the City of Farmington for utility relocations related to the Highway 170
Improvement Project.
Resolution 04-20 as recorded in the office of the City Clerk
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www fayetteville-ar.gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 3 of 32
2019 Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Award: A resolution authorize acceptance of a 2019
Justice Assistance Grant in the total amount of $134,915.56 which will be used to pay a portion of
the salaries and benefits of 4th Judicial District Drug Task Officers with the Fayetteville,
Springdale, and Prairie Grove Police Departments and the Washington County Sheriff's Office.
Resolution 05-20 as recorded in the office of the City Clerk
Teeco Safety, Inc.: A resolution to authorize the purchase of seventy seven (77) replacement
tactical body armor vests and one hundred thirty one (13 1) sets of rifle resistant ballistic plates
from Teeco Safety, Inc. in the amount of $189,524.00 plus applicable taxes and freight charges
pursuant to a NASPO ValuePoint cooperative purchasing contract, to authorize the purchase of
various body armor products pursuant to NASPO ValuePoint cooperative purchasing contracts on
an as needed basis through march 15, 2020 and any future renewal periods, and to approve a budget
adjustment.
Resolution 06-20 as recorded in the office of the City Clerk
Botanical Gardens of the Ozarks: A resolution to approve the conveyance of a General Utility
Easement to Ozarks Electric Cooperative Corporation across a portion of city property to supply
electricity to the new operations center at the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks.
Resolution 07-20 as recorded in the office of the City Clerk
McClelland Consulting Engineers, Inc.: A resolution to approve Supplemental Agreement No.
1 to the contract with McClelland Consulting Engineers, Inc. in the amount of $33,500.00 to
provide engineering services for the planting of street trees and installation of trail lighting
associated with the Zion Road - Vantage to Crossover Project, and to approve a budget adjustment.
Resolution 08-20 as recorded in the office of the City Clerk
Sweetser Construction, Inc. Change Order No. 1: A resolution to approve Change Order No. 1
to the contract with Sweetser Construction, Inc. for the Old Wire Road Protected Bike Lane and
Sidewalk Project in the amount of $246,488.85, and to approve a budget adjustment.
Resolution 09-20 as recorded in the office of the City Clerk
Crossland Construction Company, Inc. Change Order No. 5: A resolution to approve Change
Order No. 5 to the Fayetteville Public Library Expansion Project contract with Crossland
Construction Company, Inc. in the amount of $8,443,973.00 to finish out the expansion and
complete the tie into the existing library, to recognize bond interest funds in the amount of
$400,000.00, and to approve a budget adjustment.
Resolution 10-20 as recorded in the office of the City Clerk
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www.fayetteville-ar gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 4 of 32
Walker Family Residential Community Complex: A resolution to approve a contract with
Seven Hills Homeless Center to provide funding assistance in the amount of $52,000.00 for
maintenance and repairs at the Walker Family Residential Community Complex in 2020.
Resolution 11-20 as recorded in the office of the City Clerk
Bid 419-52 Benchmark Construction of NWA, Inc.: A resolution to award Bid #19-52 and
authorize a contract with Benchmark Construction of NWA, Inc. for construction of the Fleet
Vehicle Wash Facility, to approve a Change Order No. 1 to the contract with Benchmark
Construction of NWA, Inc. to reflect decreased scope of work from the contract and reduce the
total contract cost to $298,750.00.00 and to approve a project contingency in the amount of
$10,000.00.
Resolution 12-20 as recorded in the office of the City Clerk
Bid #19-52 DC Sparks: A resolution to award Bid #19-52 and authorize a contract with DC
Sparks Construction, LLC for Trade Packages 1,2,7,8,9 and 10 for construction of the Fleet
Vehicle Wash Facility, to approve a Deductive Change Order No. 1 to the contract with DC Sparks
Construction, LLC to reflect decreased scope of work from the contract and reduce the total
contract cost to $380,231.20 and to approve a project contingency in the amount of $26,000.00.
Resolution 13-20 as recorded in the office of the City Clerk
Council Member Gutierrez moved to accept the Consent Agenda as read. Council Member
Scroggin seconded the motion. Upon roll call the motion passed unanimously.
Unfinished Business:
Active Transportation Plan Map (from City Plan 2040): A resolution to approve and adopt the
Active Transportation Plan Map.
Matt Mihalevich, Trails Coordinator gave a brief description of the resolution.
Council Member Turk requested to know about a trail on the 2030 Plan.
There was a brief discussion on how to find a trail on the GIS map on the City of Fayetteville
website.
Council Member Scroggin: If we vote for Item 1 the way it is written now, it will include the
study area?
Matt Mihalevich: That is correct. We have it on the plan already. The Transportation Committee
recommended it being on there.
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www.fayetteville-ar.gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 5 of 32
Lisa Purkayastha, 1229 Lakeridge Drive thanked staff and Council for their work. She stated she
would like to be included in coming up with solutions to the issues of Brooks -Hummel. She
requested Council to honor the city conservation agreement with the Fayetteville Natural Heritage
Association and do no harm to the ecology of natural areas.
Ms. Martin, Citizen spoke about she and her husband contributing to the Fayetteville Natural
Heritage campaign to acquire land to create the Brooks -Hummel preserve. She stated she was
representing First United Presbyterian Church to discuss Brooks -Hummel. She spoke about the
preserve providing three main benefits.
Annie Latell stated she lived near Mission and North Street. She spoke about wanting to have
access from the east to get to Brooks -Hummel. She wants the city to create connectivity without
destroying the environment.
Lisa Burkett, 2798 North Sheryl Avenue spoke about the environmental aspect for animals with
having a pathway through Brooks -Hummel. She requested City Council to keep the pathway as
undeveloped as possible.
Tom Dureka, Fayetteville Natural Heritage Association spoke about volunteers who have helped
with the invasive species management of Brooks -Hummel. He spoke in opposition of a hard
surface trail going through Brooks -Hummel.
James Hass, 1440 North Hillcrest Avenue stated he would be interested in knowing how the city
plans on getting through the private property which surrounds the nature preserve. He stated his
concern about the environment for animals.
Matt Cheadle, 329 East Sycamore Street stated if development is done, he requested for Council
to not put in a hard surface.
Rick McNair, 1650 Wheeler Avenue spoke against a solid surface trail being put in at Brooks -
Hummel. He spoke about not wanting a trail to go from the south end to north end. He spoke about
the plants and wildlife in the Brooks -Hummel area.
Boyd Logan, 1426 Hillcrest Avenue stated he appreciates connectivity for the city. He spoke about
the importance of alternative transportation. He urged the Council and Planning to examine
progressive trail models to create a blended environment.
Mike Morisette, 1606 North Jordan Lane stated a 12 -foot paved trail is probably bad, but maybe
they could do a boardwalk. He stated they need to keep it on the plan.
Lance Smythe, 1708 North Walnut Avenue encouraged Council to keep Brooks -Hummel as a
nature preserve and do nothing. He spoke about Council needing to find an alternative.
Benjamin Carter, 1108 East Lakeridge Drive stated Brooks -Hummel is a place where his
daughter can walk and bike while feeling safe. He spoke about needing more non-professional
bike trails for families.
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www.fayetteviIIe-ar.gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 6 of 32
Janna Carter, 1108 East Lakeridge Drive spoke about the beauty of the area and wanting to keep
it the way it is.
Paxton Roberts, 411 West Holly Street and Executive Director of Bike NWA. He stated he is the
Chair of the Transportation Committee. He spoke about keeping the plan in place. He spoke about
needing more east and west connections. He spoke about the opportunities to go through the
Brooks -Hummel preserve.
Kristy Palmer, 1391 North Edgehill Drive stated she is an avid supporter of Fayetteville's trail
system, but is concerned about the current plans for the new sections of trail to cut through Brooks -
Hummel.
Shay Hopper, Citizen spoke about wanting to work with Council as partners to come up with a
solution regarding Brooks -Hummel. She spoke about an agreement that protects the preserve and
represents a collaborative compromise for all stakeholders.
Council Member Kinion: Are you asking for a removal of this from the plan?
Shay Hopper: As an active transportation corridor.
Council Member Kinion: You support the further investigation of a possibility of a trail or you
don't want a trail and want an alternative?
Shay Hopper: We would like to see Brooks -Hummel remain in the most natural state possible.
There are significant elevations in Brooks -Hummel. There is a cemetery adjacent to the property
that is of some historic stature. We want to compromise and work with the city to support
connectivity with a natural surface or soft surface trail.
Council Member Kinion: You would consider an alternative to a 12 -foot -wide concrete trail and
want it taken out from the plan right now?
Shay Hopper: Yes, we would like the active transportation corridor proposal removed. We think
it's in the best interest of the property to preserve the natural state and to honor the intent of the
agreement made with the Brooks -Hummel stakeholders, Fayetteville Natural Heritage, and the
community.
Council Member Kinion: It seems we are trying to come up with a consensus of how to manage
the east -west corridor, but you are saying it would be better to take it out of the plan right now and
then come up with an option later?
Shay Hopper stated yes, as they study and learn a lot more. She spoke about not being adversarial.
Citizens from the Brooks -Hummel area stood up to show their presence at the City Council
meeting.
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www.fayetteviIle-ar.gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 7 of 32
Josh Moody, Active Transportation Advisory Committee stated it makes sense to move forward
in a way that makes the least impact on the natural area. He spoke about having less cars on the
road in order to make a positive environmental impact. He spoke about having natural connectivity
through Brooks -Hummel.
Dot Neely, Citizen spoke about agreeing with Mr. Moody, but wanted to emphasize that humans
can go anywhere, but creatures can't. She stated Brooks -Hummel was identified as one of the
highest priority areas for preservation on the 2006 study that led to the green infrastructure
planning pilot project. She spoke about everyone working together for a win-win solution.
Council Member Kinion spoke about Ms. Neely being a professional he considers as one of the
best when it comes to environmental preservation and sensitivity to nature. He stated he hears Ms.
Neely saying they must recognize this as a valuable resource for preservation. He requested to
know if she preferred for this to be taken out of the transportation plan this evening and then come
back to revisit it or keep it in and trust they will develop a plan that will meet the demands of
recognizing the delicate nature of the property.
Dot Neely stated ideally an alternate transportation corridor isn't the right fit for that area. She
stated that might be Plan A, but they need other plans lines up.
Council Member Kinion: In the short run, are you saying take it out?
Dot Neely: I am on the FNHA Board. We agree there should be access up to Brooks -Hummel, but
not an active alternate transportation corridor through the preserve.
Council Member Kinion: It is a tough issue. We have a wonderful community that will come up
with a solution. We need to approach it with the highest protection of a very sensitive piece of
property. You have spoken for the natural element of this property that can't speak for itself.
Council Member Marsh: If we were to take this out, then what is the proposed east -west cycling
route that would be the alternate?
Dot Neely: From Poplar behind the businesses, east on College and up over Ash. Ash is already
wide.
Council Member Marsh: Have you ever ridden your bike on that route?
Dot Neely: Yes.
Council Member Marsh: Would you recommend it for all ages and abilities?
Dot Neely: There can be ways you can adapt so that it's not quite as steep. If we are talking about
building infrastructure through Brooks -Hummel, we can talk about building a gradual spiral to
ease the degree of slope, up and over Ash. There are many roads that lead to the east -west corridor.
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www.fayetteville-ar.gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 8 of 32
Marsha Mullins, 1144 Hillcrest spoke about Ash not being much of an incline. She spoke about
sidewalk usage in the Ash area. She spoke about alternative trail usage.
Eric Boles, 420 East Rebecca Street stated creating alternative transportation options is going to
be essential to giving people an opportunity to get away from cars.
Council Member Scroggin thanked everyone for attending the City Council meeting. He spoke
about the possibility of a boardwalk. He stated it is possible to have connectivity and nature. He
stated maybe 12 feet of concrete isn't the way to do it, but a solution needs to be found that works
for both. He stated in the city about 50% of the populous do not own a home. He spoke about
renters needing connectivity and talked about pro -trail emails he received. He stated regulating
future bikers and walkers to go up Ash is not acceptable. He stated he wants to keep the work study
on the map and vote for it at the meeting tonight.
Council Member Turk spoke about using a soft surface trail in Maryland and getting back to
nature in the middle of a city. She stated Brooks -Hummel is similar to her experience in Maryland.
She stated they need to keep the Enduring Green Network and Brooks -Hummel is part of that. She
spoke about increasing the tree canopy and having safe spaces for wildlife. She stated lights have
a tremendous amount of effect on animals. She stated Brooks -Hummel is a gorgeous piece of
property that needs to be kept in its natural state.
Council Member Turk stated she wanted to amend the resolution to remove Brooks -Hummel
from the Active Transportation Corridor and leave the study area around the box. Council Member
Kinion agreed with her proposal. Mayor Jordan requested comment about the proposed
amendment.
Council Member Marsh stated she is not supporting the amendment. She stated global climate
change is an emergency and one of the most important things they need to do is shift away from a
car dependent culture. She stated the best way to do that is to build a functional and enticing active
transportation network for all ages and abilities. She spoke about the positive aspects of a trail that
bisects her back yard. She stated it has been good for wildlife. She stated the construction of the
trail was an opportunity for the city to clean up invasive species. She stated they need to leave the
study area and the dotted line on the map. She stated they need to do their best to find an innovative
and lightest footprint through there while achieving a connected active transportation network. She
spoke about trail lighting.
Council Member Smith stated he will be voting for the resolution when they get to the motion to
approve the entire plan, either way. He stated the Active Transportation Plan as a whole is about
98% excellent work and policy. He requested to know if the city has usage numbers for the trails.
Matt Mihalevich, Trails Coordinator: Yes, we keep counts. It varies seasonally, but we can expect
about 800 a day on the Razorback Greenway.
Council Member Smith: What would we anticipate on something that is an off branch here?
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www.fayetteviIle-ar.gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 9 of 32
Matt Mihalevich: A lot less on this particular corridor. It would maybe give the potential for a
narrower footprint. It has the potential to be a really good transportation route.
Council Member Smith spoke about wanting people to use city trails. He spoke about traffic
counts. He requested to know what kind of counts could be expected.
Matt Mihalevich: We see peaks with transportation use in the mornings and evenings on our
counts with the Greenway. It's hard to speculate, but there is a potential for a surge in the morning
and evenings. You will get recreational users on the weekends.
Council Member Smith: On the trails we have a standard policy of the lights being on when it is
dark. Don't city parks have a close time?
Matt Mihalevich: Yes. I believe it is 11 pm.
Council Member Smith: Is there a potential since this goes through parkland that we could turn
off lights and instead use motion sensitive lights?
City Attorney Kit Williams: The City Council makes that decision. You don't have to build every
trail the same way or operate it the same way.
Matt Mihalevich: It could be an option to not have lights at all. Lake Fayetteville does not have
lights around it.
Council Member Smith: We have other major corridors that don't have lighting?
Matt Mihalevich: Exactly.
Council Member Smith: There is a sewer line that goes right through the middle of Brooks -
Hummel. What impact does that have on the area?
Matt Mihalevich: I can't answer the age of it. We looked at that as a possibility for the trail to put
it on top of that. The sewer line bisects the property. In an effort to come up with a better solution
we scooted the preliminary trail alignment all the way to the west edge of the property.
Council Member Smith spoke about parents not having the same abilities of being able to shuttle
their children to school. He stated there are parents whose only option is to send their kids on bikes
or foot to get where they need to go. He stated the study area is very clear of the intention to look
at other options. He stated a lot of issues will be fixed in the design.
Council Member Bunch spoke about the area being a unique opportunity to make it accessible to
people without having a giant concrete trail running through it. She stated having a trail or
boardwalk would be necessary for people to access the area. She stated she is in favor of leaving
it on the plan and leaving the study area as proposed. She believes solutions can be found to
accommodate all.
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www.fayetteviIIe-ar.gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 10 of 32
Council Member Kinion spoke about keeping the environment protected in its natural state. He
stated he isn't against a trail or a connection because connectivity is needed. He stated he wants to
remove the dotted line so they can look at more possibilities on the dotted line. He stated if they
keep the study area without the dotted line it will open a more creative vision of possibilities. He
stated he supports the proposed amendment.
Council Member Bunch: Regarding the dotted line. It has been my understanding that a Council
could take something off one of our Master Plans. A dotted line can be removed tonight and be
put back on by this Council or another Council in the future?
City Attorney Kit Williams: Absolutely. There is a study area here and it could be even larger
than the study area if you are trying to look for solutions. Nothing is going to happen this year,
next year or year after that because we don't have the money and it can't be done until six years.
There is plenty of time to study this and it will be studied no matter if you leave the dotted line on
or not. I'm not saying it's not important because it does speak to a broader look if you take the line
off, but all the options are still on the table for future City Councils to make the final decision.
Council Member Bunch spoke about having faith in the city staff that they can work with people.
She stated she is in favor of leaving the line on the map and leaving the study area.
Council Member Petty stated he is not in favor of the amendment. He stated the proposal before
Council isn't whimsical and has been reviewed by multiple committees. He stated the Active
Transportation Committee has reviewed it more than once. He stated it is a vetted proposal. He
stated taking the line off the map is merely a gesture. He stated he disagrees with sentiments that
suggest this connection should not be used for transportation or that it should be used for a light
version of transportation. He spoke about the investment of millions of dollars to change the City
of Fayetteville for the better. He spoke about the environment and people having access through
the neighborhood. He stated the environmental impacts can be addressed in a way that preserves
the ability for the corridor to function as a transportation route, but doesn't think they can prevent
the impacts of more people visiting the neighborhood. He stated neighborhoods in the city cannot
stay the same and it is Councils job to preserve what they love best about Fayetteville even as it
changes.
Council Member Turk: There are not very many greenspaces left in this town. I am not
suggesting we don't put a trail near there or connect, but there are a lot of options. Having that
study area or expanding it would be fine. Leaving that dotted line will continue to focus everything
through Brooks -Hummel. We need to protect our greenspace and I don't believe it is about
intrusion into the neighborhood. There are serious environmental concerns that should be
addressed. I want to see all these different options explored. By removing the dotted line, it will
help facilitate that.
Council Member Gutierrez thanked the neighbors for voicing their opinions. She stated she
received many emails against and for the removal of the dotted line. She spoke about the
compromise of a light footprint solution. She spoke about climate change, alternative modes of
transportation and encouraging people to use trails. She spoke about greenspaces. She stated she
is a member of the Active Transportation Committee and trust all the work done on the plan. She
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www.fayetteviIle-ar.gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 11 of 32
spoke against an amendment. She spoke about trusting city staff to make a good decision and to
work with stakeholders.
Citizen stated breaking a promise and doing something to Brooks -Hummel is horrible. He stated
there are existing streets and sidewalks that can accommodate connectivity without disrupting
Brooks -Hummel.
Council Member Kinion stated he agreed with the previous speaker. He stated Brooks -Hummel
is a precious piece of property and they did promise to protect and preserve it. He spoke about
alternatives to consider. He stated it was vetted by a select group of people, but now it is out in the
public for input.
Mayor Jordan spoke about being on City Council in 2007 and voting and promising to preserve
Brooks -Hummel in its natural beauty. He stated he promised the neighborhood back then and
stands by it now.
Council Member Turk moved to amend the resolution by removing Brooks -Hummel from
the Active Transportation Corridor and leave the study area around the box. Council
Member Kinion seconded the motion. Upon roll call the motion failed 3-5. Council Members
Kinion, Turk, and Smith voting yes. Council Members Gutierrez, Marsh, Petty, Scroggin,
and Bunch voting no.
Council Member Smith: The plan as a whole is fantastic.
Council Member Smith moved to approve the resolution. Council Member Marsh seconded
the motion. Upon roll call the resolution passed 6-2. Council Members Gutierrez, Marsh,
Petty, Scroggin, Bunch, and Smith voting yes. Council Members Kinion and Turk voting no.
Resolution 14-20 as recorded in the office of the City Clerk
Adopt Revised Master Street Plan (from City Plan 2040): A resolution to approve and adopt a
revised Master Street Plan for Fayetteville including revised street cross-sections.
Jonathan Curth, Development Review Manager gave a brief description of the resolution.
Council Member Petty: How does this change as you traverse from one end to the other, whether
it is south to north or north to south? Does staff have an opinion about designating the entire Sang
Street corridor from Wedington to MLK as a residential link instead of a neighborhood link?
Jonathan Curth: I don't think there is opposition to that, particularly towards the northern portion
of this corridor where Sang ties into Cleveland. It's an existing connection and most of that street
is already improved to handle larger volumes of traffic. I think it would be staff s recommendation
to maintain that as a higher classification. The greatest value would be to ensure some link is
maintained in this area.
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www.fayetteviIle-ar.gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 12 of 32
Garner Stoll, Director of Development Services: The southern section is also built to a collector
street width. The yellow part from MLK going north doesn't prohibit making it all residential link.
Council Member Petty reiterated what he heard Jonathan and Garner state. He stated his biggest
concern about the link proposed on Alternative 1 as shown is the design speed that is intended. He
requested to know if a neighborhood link has a design speed of 25 to 30 miles an hour.
Jonathan Curth: Yes, that is correct.
Council Member Petty: The design speed for a residential link is 15 to 20 miles an hour?
Jonathan Curth: Correct.
Council Member Petty: My principle concern with maintaining this connection on the map is the
design speed associated with the proposal. For this neighborhood and for almost all neighborhoods,
25 miles an hour is too fast for safety and comfort. I would prefer to see a residential link
designation and see it go the entire length of the corridor from Wedington to MLK. With this being
the 2040 Plan, I expect at some point in the future that this will receive treatment. At a minimum
an overlay in that time period and the designation is going to inform how we proceed with the
overlay design. I would prefer when that overlay occurs that we modify the street to have a lower
design speed than may have been intended in the past. If we can adopt a plan that will have an
intended speed that is low enough to be compatible with the behavior of pedestrians and cyclist,
then I think I can be supportive of a proposal.
Garner Stoll: There is one other advantage for the residentially linked, at least for the new part,
it would allow a developer to propose using the street cross section that is associated with the
hilltop -hillside overlay district, which this slope is. It could be a much narrower right of way and
a sidewalk on one side.
Council Member Smith: Down on the south part connected to MLK where Ramay Junior High
is, does downgrading that to a residential link the entire way sacrifice capacity on street parking?
Garner Stoll: I believe the City Council has discretion about speed and where you allow parking.
I just wanted to make sure Council understood that the portion is already built.
Council Member Smith: While I can see the benefit of reducing the design speed of the northern
part that goes through a neighborhood, this area is substantially less residential neighborhood.
There are different treatments along this corridor already and that's one where I would want to
make sure we don't sacrifice what different uses in that area needs.
Ethel Simpson, 409 North Oliver Avenue spoke about the city's zoning principles. She spoke
about the extension drastically affecting the quality of life in the neighborhood area.
Michelle Guyot stated she lives on the corner of Sang and one block south of Wedington. She
spoke about any increase in traffic putting children in danger in the area. She spoke about
environmental issues.
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www.fayetteville-ar.gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 13 of 32
Martha Sutherland, 1928 Haskell Heights spoke against the extension of Sang.
Marsha Scott, 48 North Sang spoke against the extension of Sang. She spoke about the trail
system.
Margaret Marquette Bruce, 741 North Lewis spoke about more needing to be done to maintain
and care for the already established urban forest.
Felicia Farris, 2215 Haskell Heights spoke about infill. She stated she would like the Fire
Department to be to get to her house a lot quicker than they can do right now. She spoke about a
gated area if a developer was to develop the area to prevent a thoroughfare.
Council Member Scroggin stated as connectivity is increased in the city, they have to make sure
people aren't flying through the neighborhoods. He stated going through by-passes around the city,
driving, walking or biking longer distances is not environmentally friendly. He stated he wants to
keep it on the map and a connection made at some point. He spoke about wanting it narrower.
Council Member Turk: We just discussed needing more trails and getting people off the street.
Now we have this proposed cut through and building a big street through a great part of town that
has lots of ecosystem services. We already have an improved Razorback Road. We have Futrall
Road that could be changed to two ways if we need more road access in that area. The U of A is
close by and even if it is downgraded, there are going to be so many cut throughs from students.
With the grade and slope it will present challenges with speed and runoff from any development
that goes in there. It will destroy the neighborhood and it is a beautiful historic neighborhood. I
like the alternative of no connection.
There was a brief discussion about amending the resolution to remove the Sang Avenue
connection.
Council Member Smith stated the overall Master Street Plan is fantastic and he is going to vote
for it. He stated he likes connectivity and has advocated for more connectivity on the west side
where they don't have it. He spoke about the Markham Hill connection on the south end. He stated
if Sang were to go straight to Markham, it makes sense to take some of the traffic out of an area
that it's currently weaving through on a route it is going to use anyway. He stated there's a
development planned through there that they were told had to have additional access besides just
Markham. He spoke against taking out the connection that would lead from Wedington to the top
of the hill, but could favor taking off the connection that goes from the south part of Sang. He
requested to know if Council Member Turk would be willing to split it up and talk about them
separately.
Council Member Turk: I am not willing to consider them separately.
Council Member Kinion: There have been promises made and promises should be kept. He stated
when Markham Hill was recently discussed, it was understood there would not be a pass through
on this property on Sang from Wedington up to the north. That was one of the reasons I voted the
way I did, even though it hurt my heart. I felt it was the best alternative we were faced with when
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www.fayetteville-ar gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 14 of 32
we came down to the vote. I am a neighborhood preservationist. The neighbors were promised not
to have Sang go through there because of runoff, topography, hydrology, and geology. The
expansion of the university and the area around the neighborhood is pressuring on all sides. We
should consider this amendment. It is a long-term plan.
Council Member Petty stated he is not in favor of removing the connection entirely. He is in
favor of a major downgrade from the proposal. He spoke about another possible alternative. He
spoke about not foreseeing some of the extreme things that a lot of people are fearing. He stated a
60 -foot -wide roadway with a design speed of 30 miles per hour is a mistake. He spoke about future
development concerns. He stated a connection is important.
Council Member Bunch: The connections are 2/3 completed on either end. How many miles or
feet of street is left to be completed there?
Jonathan Curth: It is 8,000 feet, roughly from Wedington to MLK. Of that about 2/3 is built as
public street. Built as a collector it would probably be about 3,000 linear feet of that. 550 feet of
right of way would be necessary to still be acquired if this connection were to be made in the
future.
Council Member Bunch: We already have some very steep streets. How does this rank if this
connection is put in and is it steeper than others in the city?
Jonathan Curth: If you were to go directly up the hill from the southern portion of Sang, it would
be about 19% slope. The steepest slope I visit is on north between Mission and College Avenue,
which is about a 15% slope. If you were to go straight up the south side of Markham Hill, it would
be steeper than that.
Jonathan Curth and Garner Stoll spoke about other slope percentages and the city's present
standards.
Council Member Gutierrez thanked the neighbors for attending the meeting. She stated she
doesn't want the traffic worsened for the school in the area. She spoke about supporting trail
concepts and alternative concepts instead of the roads and cars. She spoke in favor of the
amendment.
Council Member Marsh stated she would not support the amendment. She stated it is important
to preserve the residential link, but building it minimally. She stated there is a gap in transportation
options to get to the other side of the mountain. She spoke about not freezing neighborhoods in
time. She stated the city is growing and room needs to be made for that in a way that's compatible
with the environment and long-range goals. She stated a small connection is important. She stated
when we try to preserve these neighborhoods, it puts additional development pressure on other
neighborhoods. She stated it is important to be able to integrate new opportunities for housing
throughout the city, especially in such proximity to the city's largest employer.
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www,fayetteville-ar.gov.
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 15 of 32
Chaim Goodman -Strauss, 524 West Prospect Street spoke about Wilson Park and removing the
connection from the Master Street Plan turned out to be a great thing because it created alternative
ideas on how to manage traffic. He spoke about Futrall Drive being made into a two-way street.
City Attorney Kit Williams: I was on the Council when it was made one-way. We opposed that
and the Highway Department said it shall be done. I don't think it's going to be easy to make that
road a two-way access road. We tried to prevent it from going one-way and we lost.
Marsha Scott spoke about connectivity issues, student travel routes, traffic, and parking concerns.
Council Member Turk gave a brief description of her proposed amendment of removing the Sang
Avenue connection from the Master Street Plan. She spoke about it becoming a cut through area
for U of A students, traffic, speeding, and slope concerns. She spoke about the history of the
neighborhood.
Garner Stoll: If you look at this Master Street Plan, the majority of the parts that are not presently
built are contemplated for building by developers and they are not city projects. In those instances,
the connections are not intended to be literally the alignment that is on this map. Developers
frequently choose alternate connections when they go through the sub -division process.
Council Member Scroggin stated he wants everyone to be more careful when they talk about
students. He stated it seems like we think their trip is less important than somebody with a job. He
spoke about not degrading a class of people based on what they are currently doing.
Council Member Turk moved to amend the resolution by removing the Sang Avenue
connection from the Master Street Plan. Council Member Kinion seconded the motion. Upon
roll call the motion passed 5-4. Council Members Gutierrez, Kinion, Turk, and Smith voting
yes. Mayor Jordan voting yes. Council Members Marsh, Petty, Scroggin, and Bunch voting
no.
Council Member Petty: With the plan being amended, it's substantially different than the Master
Street Plan that is currently on the books. It shows a shared use path establishing the connection
from Sang. If the road connection is not going to be part of the plan, I find it critical that the shared
use path be reinserted into the alternative Transportation Plan. What is the procedure to do that?
City Attorney Kit Williams: Anyone who voted in the majority that passed the alternative Trails
Master Plan can make a motion to reconsider so that you can amend it and then pass it again.
Council Member Petty: That seems convoluted. Would it be acceptable to see an amendment to
the alternative Transportation Plan come forward that was isolated to this issue at the next meeting?
City Attorney Kit Williams: It would be easier to do at the next meeting. You could do a motion
to reconsider at the next meeting too. That way you don't have to do a new item. It will probably
be a change in the map.
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www.fayetteville-ar gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 16 of 32
Council Member Petty: I will follow the preference of the staff. I wish for the support of the
representatives of the ward.
Jonathan Curth: This same trail was on the Active Transportation Map that was approved by
Council previously tonight.
Mayor Jordan: It is already there?
Jonathan Curth: Correct.
Garner Stoll gave brief description about the map.
Council Member Smith stated he was glad it was fixed.
Council Member Smith moved to approve the resolution. Council Member Gutierrez
seconded the motion. Upon roll call the resolution passed unanimously.
Resolution 15-20 as recorded in the office of the City Clerk
Cultural Arts Corridor Project: A resolution to express the City Council's intent to consider all
three potential replacement parking sites as part of the Cultural Arts Corridor Project, and to
encourage the city to seek opportunities to provide additional benefits including housing, arts
production facilities, and other uses that further the city's expressed priorities. At the December 17,
2019 City Council Meeting this item was tabled to the January 7, 2020 City Council Meeting.
Council Member Smith gave a brief description of the resolution. He proposed an amendment to
strike the final whereas that discusses the University, Walton Arts Center, and Nadine Baum. He
wants to leave in place the intent that they look for other partnerships and opportunities for
community benefits, including housing, arts, and other uses that would further the city's express
priorities. He stated another addition would be in Sectionl which places an emphasis on workforce
housing.
There was a brief discussion about workforce housing.
Council Member Scroggin stated he would second the motion. He spoke about the process. He
stated he is okay with the workforce housing.
Council Member Smith stated the administration presented the assessment of Nadine Baum.
There was a brief clarification and discussion about the amendment.
Council Member Marsh stated she would support the amendment and resolution. She spoke
about talking to the creative community about what their needs were to be successful. She spoke
about collaborating to solve social problems such as housing. She spoke about staying with the
mission of activating the creative economy.
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www.fayetteviIle-ar.gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 17 of 32
Council Member Bunch: The replacement parking is part of our bond issue. Is the workforce
housing section saying we are going to look at that in the future?
City Attorney Kit Williams: I could not be in favor of it if it was something you thought you
could tie to the parking deck. I have real concerns about that. The ballot never said anything about
housing or workforce housing. It said build a parking deck. That is what we need to do. If we don't
get the parking deck built quickly, then we won't be able to do the Arts Corridor Plaza. Any delays
can be difficult because you have to spend bond funds within three years of receipt. This is a
project that has to have a deck first and then the plaza. Anytime you push the deck back or if we
began the deck and we had housing conjunction and someone sued because they said the Housing
Authority didn't have the authority to do that under the statutes, then that would probably delay
our entire project. I'm very concerned about trying to change what the purpose of this bond issue
was, which is to build a parking deck and then build a plaza. Trying to give it other purposes that
were not on the ballot could be dangerous. If we want to work to get workforce housing or low-
income housing in the future, we can work with the Housing Authority in other ways. When we
are dealing with ten million dollars worth of bonds, this is not the time to see if whether what they
propose is something they have the legal right to do.
Council Member Bunch: Is that what you are saying this might be doing?
City Attorney Kit Williams: It is encouraging the Mayor to look at several uses, including
workforce housing, which was not part of the bond issue and to tie that to the parking deck is what
makes me concerned. We could suffer delays that would prevent us from finishing the Cultural
Arts Corridor project.
Council Member Scroggin spoke about tabling the item. He spoke about moving quickly because
of building materials rising.
Council Member Turk: You are taking off Option 3, which is the Nadine Baum Studio option?
Council Member Smith: The language that is removed takes out references to how many options
there are. The language that is left encourages whatever options we consider that we will look at
ways it can be compatible with other uses.
Council Member Turk: There are two options on the table?
Council Member Smith: Recognizing that Nadine Baum is not a viable option, we only ever had
three. We discussed last night what it would take to bring up a creative fourth solution and staff
made a compelling argument for many of the reasons that Kit just discussed about the timeline.
We are left with two active considerations.
Council Member Turk: Kit, your concern is with Section 1 or are there more things you are
concerned about?
City Attorney Kit Williams: No, that's the one I am concerned about. It talks about seeking
opportunities for partnerships that might enhance the replacement parking project to any location
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www.fayetteville-ar gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 18 of 32
with features or amenities that could include but not limit it to workforce housing, arts production
facilities or other uses that further city priorities. I'm not against these things, but we have ten
million dollars that was voted by the citizens to build the parking deck. According to what our
construction engineers have come up with, in either of the other two places it is going to cost
almost ten million dollars to build only the parking deck. The statutes only allow the Fayetteville
Housing Authority to build low-income housing. They created a non-profit and they believe with
the non-profit they can do lots of other things. This could create a target on the city. The only time
Fayetteville has had trouble is with bond issues when the envelope is being pushed. We lost two
of those in the early 1990's that cost us millions of dollars. I don't believe it is worth the risk.
Council Member Smith stated he would like to vote on the amendment and then speak about the
resolution.
Mayor Jordan: Your amendment takes out Nadine Baum?
Council Member Smith: Yes.
Mayor Jordan: It leaves in the other two with discussion on how we can incorporate some of the
other issues you brought up?
Council Member Smith: Yes.
Mayor Jordan: The amendment is that the Nadine Baum is not one of the locations, but the other
two are still active. The Housing Authority can consider the other options you brought forward
about the housing stuff?
Council Member Smith: Yes.
Council Member Kinion spoke about being in favor of affordable housing. He spoke about his
experience with the Fayetteville Housing Authority. He stated this can be done without tying it to
a project that the voters voted on, which is parking. He stated it could open the city up to
questionable litigation. He stated the amendment is okay, but the whole prospect does concern
him. He stated they should be considering parking because that is what they are charged to do. He
stated the other issues can then be considered. He stated he doesn't believe at this point that they
need to add an additional twist to parking, since parking is what the taxpayers voted on. He stated
he is going to be pushing the east parking lot. He spoke about buildings on the Arts Corridor that
have not been identified as what they are and could possibly be for housing or commercial space.
He stated time is of the essence with the bond money.
Mayor Jordan reiterated what the amendment says.
Council Member Marsh: What is the reason that Nadine Baum is done? I have not received any
kind of information on that. There were no members of the Arts Council invited to the stakeholder
meeting yesterday.
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www fayetteville-ar.gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 19 of 32
Susan Norton, Communications and Marketing Director: In your inbox are the notes from the
facilitated meeting. The information talks about what the stakeholders at the meeting described as
an impossibility to overcome the acceptance of that location for a parking facility due to the
university, Walton Arts Center and city's position for its partnerships that currently support the
facilities that are on the premises. The meeting was arranged by me at the behest of the people who
spoke the last time, not the Arts Council. The Fayetteville Housing Authority made the request to
the Mayor. I did a call for participation. I asked for the names of the people who could come
because we were going to have a facilitated session and we needed to limit the participation in
order to have a successful meeting.
Council Member Marsh: You limited the participation by excluding members of the Fayetteville
Arts Council from a discussion of the Cultural Arts Corridor.
Susan Norton: The discussion was to talk about a parking deck.
Angela Belford, Fayetteville Housing Authority Executive Director thanked Susan Norton. She
stated the discussion will help decide where to put the parking deck.
Council Member Turk: Do we need to include Section P There is a commitment of all the
partners that Susan put together.
Angela Belford: We all agreed to begin to talk about in general throughout Fayetteville and the
Cultural Arts Corridor about housing. In Fayetteville, housing cost have gone up and wages have
not gone up.
Council Member Turk: This amendment encourages the Mayor to seek opportunities for
partnership. It sounds like you have already started the discussion.
Angela Belford: Encouraging the Mayor to seek partnerships is really the flavor of this resolution.
It is a discussion amongst the City Council to say how are we going to consider equity, housing,
city plan or people who are the most vulnerable. We need this.
Council Member Kinion: Do you see that there is an option outside of connecting this directly
with the bond issue of a parking deck? Why is it important to connect this issue with a parking
deck?
Angela Belford: Looking at one single issue is foolish and short sided. I work at an organization
where they didn't think long term.
Council Member Kinion: I am not foolish. I think in the long run. This is a specific bond issue.
Angela Belford spoke about making a decision and design the parking deck that will allow
options. She spoke about creative solutions.
Council Member Kinion: I agree.
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www.fayetteviIIe-ar.gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 20 of 32
Council Member Marsh spoke about integrated thinking. She spoke about the city having
housing and transportation issues. She stated she regrets voting for the parking deck because she
would rather spend ten million dollars on functional transit. She spoke about maximizing
opportunities for synergy. She stated she wants to create an ecosystem where creatives can succeed
and thrive.
Reed Greenwood, 1601 Elmwood requested for the resolution to be read. He stated he is against
converting the Baum Learning Center to a parking deck.
Council Member Smith read the resolution.
Reed Greenwood: The Nadine Baum Studio will be off the table if this is approved?
Council Member Smith: Yes. I believe it is anyway, but I am trying to bring the resolution into
alignment with reality.
Reed Greenwood spoke about his work and volunteer history. He spoke about the arts and being
a supporter of the arts.
Council Member Turk moved to allow an additional three minutes for the speaker. Council
Member Scroggin seconded the motion. Upon roll call the motion passed 7-1. Council
Members Gutierrez, Kinion, Petty, Scroggin, Bunch, Turk, and Smith voting yes. Council
Member Marsh voting no.
Reed Greenwood stated the Nadine Baum Studio was created through generous support from the
Baum Family. He stated to name a building it takes a covenant between an institution and a donor
to honor and continue in trust the wishes of the donor when the gift is made. He stated he is opposed
to using the space for housing or a parking deck.
Autumn Tolbert, 529 South Block stated she would hate to see the City Council take any option
off the table right now. She stated she would like to see how many more people can be served with
housing, arts, and parking all together. She requested for Council to not take the Nadine Baum
Studio off the table. She spoke about housing issues.
Peter Tonnessen, Ward 3 spoke about the city needing to stay focused. He spoke about legal
issues if something is done with the money other than arts. He spoke about leaving the parking lot
where it is.
Cynthia Curatalow spoke about supporting the arts and artist. She stated a parking lot is not
needed. She stated she is in support of taking Nadine Baum off the table.
Mayor Jordan: The amendment is to take Nadine Baum off the table and not put a parking lot
there.
Council Member Smith: I believe I am hearing people speak in favor of the amendment.
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www.fayetteville-ar.gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 21 of 32
Gary Johnson, 3184 East Crestline Place spoke about the positive aspects of the Nadine Baum
Studio. He supports the amendment to take Nadine Baum off the table.
Rob Qualls, 2140 Jonquil Road: The words, off the table, are used regarding Nadine Baum Studios
in this amendment, but it doesn't legally bar it ever from being touched. It's off the table for this
resolution, but not the next resolution in two weeks. Is that correct?
Council Member Smith: Yes.
Joel Doruco, Ward 3 stated Nadine Baum is an institution. She spoke about other options to
consider.
Council Member Marsh stated the proposal was never to destroy Nadine Baum. She stated it was
to replace it, just like they did with the Walton Arts Center offices when they tore them down and
replaced it with a new facility as part of a mixed-use development.
Jackie Johnson, 3184 East Crestline Place spoke about the positive aspects of the Nadine Baum
Studio. She spoke against the parking lot. She spoke about building upward on the existing parking
lot.
Chaim Goodman -Strauss, 524 West Prospect requested to know what the legal status of a
resolution or amendment of this kind. He requested to know if this is a suggestion to City Council
or is it binding. He spoke about the wording of the amendment.
City Attorney Kit Williams: Resolutions can be binding, but this one says the City Council
encourages the Mayor. It is a statement that they would like to see the Mayor do that. I will be
cautioning the Mayor about putting anything directly with the parking deck because that would
concern me. This one does not require him to do anything.
Chaim Goodman -Strauss suggested to Council that they consider the word, potential in the
amendment.
Rick Shelton, 1963 North Lisa Lane spoke about the positive aspects of the Nadine Baum Studio.
He spoke in favor of the amendment.
Chris Shields, 1963 North Lisa Lane stated he is on the Board of Directors of the Community
Creative Center. He spoke in favor of the amendment.
Council Member Smith moved to amend the resolution as previously discussed and remove
the Nadine Baum Studio. Council Member Scroggin seconded the motion. Upon roll call the
motion passed 7-1. Council Members Marsh, Kinion, Petty, Scroggin, Bunch, Turk, and
Smith voting yes. Council Member Gutierrez abstained.
Mayor Jordan spoke about working with different partners and the City Attorney.
There was a brief discussion about taking public comment on the amended resolution.
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www fayetteville-ar.gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 22 of 32
Council Member Smith summarized and read the amended resolution.
Angela Belford, Executive Director of the Fayetteville Housing Authority spoke about City
Councils criteria for making a ten -million -dollar investment and wants them to factor housing into
their decision.
Will Dockery, 4149 West Bradstreet spoke in favor of the resolution and requested to table item
number 4.
Peter Tonnessen, Ward 3 advocated for the parking lot to remain where it is. He spoke about the
scenario of condemning Arsaga's and the Depot and build a three-level parking lot and the law.
He spoke in favor to choose the East lot of the two choices given. He doesn't agree that they have
the right to use art as a sub -diffuse to build public housing.
City Attorney Kit Williams: That is not under Arkansas law. We can't condemn for commercial
activity.
Citizen spoke about the Nadine Baum Studio being deleted from the resolution. He spoke about
getting the parking deck settled and move forward with the plaza. He stated there is no money to
replace the Baum Leaning Center.
Rob Qualls, 2140 Jonquil Road stated the words parking deck or parking structure are not in the
ballot language. He stated the commitment is to replace any parking that is removed. He stated
this is a not a parking deck ballot issue. He spoke about housing issues. He spoke about a letter of
intent. He spoke about RFP's.
Bob Stafford, 527 South Sherman Avenue stated the School Street lot is the best choice. He spoke
about the possibilities available. He spoke about the plaza and Depot lot. He requested Council
Member Kinion's support for the School Street lot.
There was a brief description about locations.
Council Member Kinion: I am supporting the School Street East lot.
Council Member Smith: This is about setting our priorities for design and other considerations
wherever we choose.
Cathy Voight, 520 North Walnut stated she opposes the parking garage to be in front of Arsaga's.
She stated she is against the School Street lot being turned into a parking garage.
Kristen Bensinger, 1907 East Harold and is the Chair of the Fayetteville Housing Authority. She
spoke about participating in a productive conversation with a group of stakeholders with many
good ideas. She spoke about collaborative thinking with many entities. She encouraged Council to
move away from single focus and towards finding multiple objectives.
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www.fayetteville-ar gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 23 of 32
Simone Cottrell, 521 West Spruce Street spoke in favor of having affordable housing discussions.
She spoke about the art culture.
Council Member Petty stated the resolution has become primarily symbolic and it is an important
symbol. He stated all things should be considered when spending millions of dollars. He stated it
is systematic that they pin so many of their hopes under this project because none of their hopes
have been addressed previously. He stated he is favor of the resolution.
Council Member Gutierrez spoke about why she abstained from the vote previously. She stated
we sit under the 2030 Plan and we are always wanting to have attainable housing. She stated if we
put this with this item, which parking is very important to creative economy, but a lot of money
will be lost if the deadline is not hit. She stated they always need to be thinking about attainable
housing, but if they don't get this thing done, money will be lost.
Council Member Kinion stated he believes Council and the administration is always open to
discuss partnerships. He spoke in favor of the resolution.
Council Member Marsh spoke in favor of the resolution. She stated this has been one of the few
opportunities Council has had to discuss the Cultural Arts Corridor. She stated she feels that the
artist and creatives are not feeling like their needs are being heard. She stated we have tied a
parking deck to a Cultural Arts Corridor and made that the prerequisite for Arts and Culture
development. She spoke about the obligation to take care of artist and cultural workers. She spoke
about private negotiations going on with private landowners and stated RFP's should have been
issued to the community. She spoke about housing issues and collaborating.
Council Member Smith stated good cities solve for more than one problem simultaneously. He
spoke about not spending restricted bond funds on anything besides what voters authorized. He
spoke about making good design choices in the projects they build with those funds. He stated
they don't have to tie housing to the parking deck, but they need to make sure they don't use the
parking deck to preclude the opportunity for housing. He spoke about shared partnerships.
Peter Nierengarten, Environmental Director stated the Cultural Arts Corridor is a project that is
much larger than just the parking deck discussion. He spoke about the Cultural Arts Corridor
partnerships the city has with other entities and projects.
Council Member Smith thanked Peter for his work on partnerships.
Council Member Smith moved to approve the resolution. Council Member Marsh seconded
the motion. Upon roll call the resolution passed 7-1. Council Members Gutierrez, Marsh,
Kinion, Petty, Scroggin, Bunch, and Smith voting yes. Council Member Turk voting no.
Resolution 16-20 as recorded in the office of the City Clerk
Sage Partners, LLC Depot Lot Proposal: A resolution to authorize Mayor Jordan to sign letters
of intent with Sage Partners, LLC, on behalf of Fayetteville Depot, LLC and Farmers & Merchants
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www. fayetteviIle-ar.gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 24 of 32
Bank (f/k/a The Bank of Fayetteville), for the purchase of approximately 0.6 acres along with
necessary permanent access and temporary construction easements at the northwest corner of West
Avenue and Dickson Street for the construction of a replacement parking deck for the total amount
of $350,000.00, the conveyance of liner building space and approximately 0.2 acres at the north
end of the Civic Plaza. At the December 17, 2019 City Council Meeting this item was tabled to the January
7, 2020 City Council Meeting.
Peter Nierengarten, Environmental Director gave a brief description of the resolution.
Sterling Hamilton, Sage Partners spoke about the revised letter of intent. He spoke about the time
he spent speaking with Greg House and Cary Arsaga. He stated from the community's perspective,
they need to preserve the Depot building through the agreement. He spoke about the business
continuity around the Arsaga lease. He spoke about people giving their word and being treated
fairly through the process.
City Attorney Kit Williams: On your future concept it shows the shared alley intersecting with
Dickson Street, but it shows the parking deck emptying only into the West Avenue. Would it be
your plan that the West Avenue would be able to exit onto the shared alley so they could go directly
onto Dickson Street?
Sterling Hamilton: That is correct.
Council Member Marsh: On your diagram, the liner building says one level first floor deck. Does
that mean the entire volume is only one story or does that mean the first floor will be designated
for active uses other than parking?
Sterling Hamilton: I don't know the answer to that. My assumption would be that we would use
the liner portion of the deck to either have a step back version or there would be deck over it
depending on how many spaces. I don't have the calculations on it, so I can't tell you exactly. The
more liner you can get, the better off we are. We are activating the street level.
Council Member Marsh: Has there been an independent appraisal of this property and the one
you are proposing we swap with?
Sterling Hamilton: I will let the city speak to that. I believe they have an appraisal.
Council Member Marsh: I would appreciate a copy being forwarded to Council if one has been
done.
Council Member Turk: Please expand on your plans for historic preservation.
Sterling Hamilton spoke about being able to use instruments for long term historic preservation,
such as a Bill of Assurance and Deed Restrictions. He stated he would lean on the legal side of
this. He stated there is an intention in the agreement to use an actual mechanism to provide an
assurance of preservation.
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www.fayetteviIle-ar.gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 25 of 32
Council Member Turk: Would you be in support of a historic ordinance that would provide a lot
of protection?
Sterling Hamilton: It depends on what the ordinance says.
City Attorney Kit Williams: An agreement will probably be stronger than an ordinance. What
duration were you thinking about offering for the preservation?
Sterling Hamilton: I would be making an assumption if I said how long. I was thinking long
enough that it wasn't going to be a concern. I don't want to promise indefinite.
City Attorney Kit Williams: You need to talk to your owner.
Sterling Hamilton: I can't speak for the owner on the total number of years protected. If you do
a deed restriction on something, you would have to specify a time limit, otherwise it is restricted.
Peter Nierengarten: We have an appraisal on the West Avenue parking lot.
Council Member Marsh: What about the land they are proposing to swap?
Peter Nierengarten: We do not have an appraisal on their property. In the appraisal, it uses several
other sales in the vicinity of the West Avenue parking lot. I would expect that if an appraisal was
done on the property across the street, it would come back very similarly.
Council Member Marsh stated she had an issue with the process, but believes it's a very nice
plan that has been put forward. She spoke about her appreciation for the allocation of space for a
future transit hub. She spoke about tabling the item for more time to review.
Council Member Scroggin stated he would like to table the resolution. He stated this is a far
better plan than he has previously seen. He stated having two parking decks open at the same time
on the same street is problematic.
Council Member Turk stated she appreciates the new version that was presented. She spoke
about wanting more details. She spoke in favor of tabling the item.
Susan Norton, Communications and Marketing Director: This presentation is about the letter of
intent. The details will be in the contract that will come back to you.
City Attorney Kit Williams: We will try to get more details before the next meeting. Eventually
all the details would be any proposed contract that we would enter into with them.
Susan Norton stated she had been asked to lead the concept drawing on the screen while public
comment is being taken. She spoke about Mayor Jordan keeping the time for public comment.
Joe Fennel, 1655 Woolsey stated he is in favor of the parking deck at the Depot lot. He stated the
majority of the Dickson Street merchants are in favor of the Depot lot.
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www.fayettevi1le-ar.gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 26 of 32
Kendall Curlee, 524 West Prospect stated the footprint plan looks good, but Arsaga's is a one-
story building and the parking garage is four levels, which will block the light from the east and
won't be visible from the West Street. She spoke about needing elevations. She spoke about the
historic nature of the Depot building. She proposed to Council to shorten public comment from
five minutes to three minutes per speaker.
Kelsey Ferguson, 432 West Holly spoke about Arsaga's being a cultural and artistic business. She
spoke about wanting the building to be preserved as a historical building.
Council Member Gutierrez: Are you against the Depot lot and for another parking space?
Kelsey Ferguson: Yes.
JoAnn Kaminsky, 543 Assembly spoke about her connection with the Depot lot. She stated it is
a rich place that is a part of the Cultural Arts Corridor. She spoke against putting the parking deck
at the Depot lot.
Rob Qualls, 2140 Jonquill Road spoke about not being notified about a stakeholder meeting and
believes the public should have been notified. He stated the revised letter of intent will give more
time to get things right. He stated it looks like the School Street deck is a viable option, but wants
more innovative solutions.
Susan Norton spoke about the public meeting process.
There was a brief discussion about public meetings.
Citizen spoke about attending meetings about parking. He spoke about his dissatisfaction with the
process. He requested to know if the plan considers the boundary of the Scarpino's property.
Sterling Hamilton spoke about trusting the firm that drew the plans. He stated they know what
they are doing. He spoke about setback requirements and height limits.
Citizen stated Scarpino's is overlapped and there is a level of disdain for reality. He requested to
know if the land to the north of the parking depot had been acquired or negotiated in the letter of
intent.
Peter Nierengarten: I assume you are referring to the location that calls for the access easement
running to the north. That property is zoned by the Depot LLC.
Citizen: Is that part of the land deal?
Peter Nierengarten: An access easement providing for a secondary exit either in that location or
south to Dickson Street is included in the letter of intent.
Citizen: In the price?
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www.fayetteville-ar.gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 27 of 32
Peter Nierengarten: Yes.
Citizen stated Eric and Charley Lloyd were here earlier, but had to leave. He voiced his concern
about cutting through their ice house parking lot to create an access on West Street. He spoke about
not feeling involved in the process. He stated he hopes other due diligence is given to the other
options on School Street.
Steve Clark, Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce President. He stated the Chamber supports the
proposal for the Depot lot. He stated that is the beginning and not the end. He spoke about it being
the catalyst that will bring future and additional development to the Entertainment District.
Bob Stafford, 527 South Sherman requested the letter of intent for viewing.
Peter Nierengarten: We will get it added to the Council packet for this agenda item.
Susan Norton: This Council packet is on the Cultural Arts Corridor page. There will be a link to
everything that is added.
Bob Stafford stated this is a two-dimensional plan and would like to see some elevations as an
example. He requested to know where the train will be located.
Sterling Hamilton: This is a future concept and we have to focus on the heart of the deal. The
future potential is here. There are a lot of parties to talk to when it comes to getting the rest of the
deal put together, other than the parking deck and the liner building that are shown on the plan. I
am confident we will get a solution to the train. I can't promise there is going to be a building there
or promise the train will stay or go or how to preserve it, but that is not the issue at hand right now.
Bob Stafford requested to see parking spots drawn out on the plan for a more realistic look. He
requested to know if anyone had reached out to the ice house owners about an easement.
Mayor Jordan: As far as I know we aren't going to take out the ice house.
There was a brief discussion about easements.
Sterling Hamilton spoke about the two points of access on the site to the deck.
Melissa Terry, 701 Southwood Avenue spoke about the dynamic tension between the urgency of
the timeline. She requested to know if it would be possible to have a community engagement event
where they have design boards to be better informed.
Susan Norton: Peter, please describe the timeline when the construction manager and engineer
was hired. When can there be more to look at than a footprint?
Peter Nierengarten: Under our current timeline, we plan on bringing forward the contract with a
design firm at the next City Council meeting. Shortly after that period, we will schedule a kick-off
with the design team and they would begin preliminary designs. We have the ability to make that
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www. fayetteviIle-ar.gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 28 of 32
discussion part of a public input component on what is the preferred layout on the selected site. I
could see that timeline being in the late winter or early spring.
Cary Arsaga, 917 West Cato Springs Road stated he is the owner of Arsaga's at the Depot. He
stated the worst place to put the parking deck is in front of his business. He spoke against the
parking deck being in front of the Depot.
Council Member Bunch moved to allow an additional five minutes for the speaker. Council
Member Turk seconded the motion. Upon roll call the motion passed unanimously.
Cary Arsaga spoke about the letter of intent. He stated while it is being built, he will lose a lot of
money.
Melanie Dietzel, 1991 North Greenview spoke about local artist displaying their work in Arsaga's
coffee shop. She spoke about the Depot being an iconic building. She spoke against a parking deck
at the Depot lot.
Angela Belford requested to know if there would be an opportunity for public conversation and
questions about which lot is chosen.
Susan Norton: If you think people will come to listen to the same thing we have heard and will
hear again in two weeks, we don't mind having another public meeting. There is not a lot to show
until we can hire the design work to be done.
Council Member Marsh: The public doesn't want us to show them stuff. They want us to listen
to them and their concerns. They want an opportunity for meaningful input that will affect the
trajectory of this project. I am glad to see the diagram. This relieves some of my concerns about
overshadowing the Depot building. We have an opportunity to develop an interesting urban alley.
We need to start thinking about the front of the building as being the trail side. I am interested in
what the agreement will be with Greg House.
Mayor Jordan: I will see what I can do to try and put some sort of public thing together next
week. It was interesting about the ice house.
Susan Norton: We will plan to make this presentation between now and the next time you all
meet. We will conduct a public meeting with all this material. We don't have additional material.
Council Member Bunch made a motion to table the resolution to the January 21, 2020 City
Council meeting. Council Member Turk seconded the motion. Upon roll the motion passed
unanimously.
This resolution was Tabled to the January 21, 2020 City Council meeting.
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www.fayetteviIle-ar.gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 29 of 32
New Business:
G&W Diesel Service, Inc: A resolution to approve the purchase of a 2020 Pierce ladder fire
apparatus from G&W Diesel Service, Inc. in the amount of $1,416,570.00 plus a performance and
payment bond at a cost of $4,230.00, pursuant to the Houston -Galveston Area Council cooperative
purchasing contract, and to approve a project contingency in the amount of $75,000.00.
Brad Hardin, Fire Chief gave a brief description of the resolution.
Peter Tonnessen, Ward 3 spoke about the report in the packet. He spoke about infill and narrow
streets. He spoke about ISO classifications.
Brad Hardin: This is a replacement truck. We are buying a truck that's like what we have
currently, except it is more maneuverable. We will be maintaining our ISO 1. We have places all
over the city that is hard to get around where the parking is restrictive and this will help us.
Council Member Scroggin: Have we ever looked at the insurance change going from an ISO 1
to an ISO 2?
Brad Hardin: When you get below an ISO 5, it's our businesses who will recognize it more. It
definitely has an impact on the citizens. It is beneficial to everyone. It affects our bond rating.
City Attorney Kit Williams: There is another big benefit for someone who suffers from a fire.
An ISO 1 rating means you get there more quickly. Health and safety are important and it's not
just about the money.
Mayor Jordan: If you are a number one Fire Department, why would you try and be number two.
Council Member Scroggin moved to approve the resolution. Council Member Smith
seconded the motion. Upon roll call the resolution passed unanimously.
Resolution 17-20 as recorded in the office of the City Clerk
Emergency Vehicle Specialists, Inc. Bond Project: A resolution to approve the purchase of a
2020 Pierce impel fire engine apparatus from Emergency Vehicle Specialists, Inc. in the amount
of $629,244.00 plus a performance and payment bond at a cost of $1,790.00, pursuant to a
Houston -Galveston Area Council cooperative purchasing contract, to approve a project
contingency in the amount of $65,000.00, and to approve a budget adjustment.
Brad Hardin, Fire Chief gave a brief description of the resolution.
Council Member Scroggin moved to approve the resolution. Council Member Smith
seconded the motion. Upon roll call the resolution passed unanimously.
Resolution 18-20 as recorded in the office of the City Clerk
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www. fayetteville-ar.gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 30 of 32
VAC 19-6922: 627 N. Leverett Ave./Cajakajo, Inc.: An ordinance to approve VAC 19-6922 for
property located 627 North Leverett Avenue to vacate a portion of a general utility easement.
City Attorney Kit Williams read the ordinance.
Garner Stoll, Director of Development Services gave a brief description of the ordinance. He
stated the Planning Commission and staff recommend approval.
Council Member Marsh moved to suspend the rules and go to the second reading. Council
Member Scroggin seconded the motion. Upon roll call the motion passed unanimously.
City Attorney Kit Williams read the ordinance.
Council Member Scroggin moved to suspend the rules and go to the third and final reading.
Council Member Gutierrez seconded the motion. Upon roll call the motion passed
unanimously.
City Attorney Kit Williams read the ordinance.
Mayor Jordan asked shall the ordinance pass. Upon roll call the ordinance passed
unanimously.
Ordinance 6273 as Recorded in the office of the City Clerk
Amerlux, LLC: An ordinance to waive the requirements of formal competitive bidding and
authorize the purchase of street light poles and fixtures manufactured by Amerlux, LLC for city-
wide transportation infrastructure projects through December 31, 2030.
City Attorney Kit Williams read the ordinance.
Terry Gulley, Transportation Services Director gave a brief description of the ordinance.
Council Member Scroggin: If they raise the price, we can come back and talk about this?
Terry Gulley: Yes.
There was a brief discussion about the process and the history.
Council Member Scroggin moved to suspend the rules and go to the second reading. Council
Member Gutierrez seconded the motion. Upon roll call the motion passed unanimously.
City Attorney Kit Williams read the ordinance.
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www. fa yettev i I I e -a r gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 31 of 32
Council Member Scroggin moved to suspend the rules and go to the third and final reading.
Council Member Gutierrez seconded the motion. Upon roll call the motion passed
unanimously.
City Attorney Kit Williams read the ordinance.
Mayor Jordan asked shall the ordinance pass. Upon roll call the ordinance passed
unanimously.
Ordinance 6274 as Recorded in the office of the City Clerk
American Electric Power Bond Project: An ordinance to waive competitive bidding for
payments to or contracts with AEP/SWEPCO and Ozarks Electric Cooperative Corporation for
the costs of relocating electric utility poles and power lines necessitated by transportation,
engineering, or utility projects within AEP/SWEPCO's or Ozarks Electric's area of service, to
approve a payment in the amount $33,577.00 for utility relocations associated with the Boxwood
Addition Drainage Project, and to approve a budget adjustment.
City Attorney Kit Williams read the ordinance.
Matt Casey, Engineering Design Manager gave a brief description of the ordinance.
Council Member Scroggin moved to suspend the rules and go to the second reading. Council
Member Gutierrez seconded the motion. Upon roll call the motion passed unanimously.
City Attorney Kit Williams read the ordinance.
Council Member Scroggin moved to suspend the rules and go to the third and final reading.
Council Member Gutierrez seconded the motion. Upon roll call the motion passed
unanimously.
City Attorney Kit Williams read the ordinance.
Mayor Jordan asked shall the ordinance pass. Upon roll call the ordinance passed
unanimously.
Ordinance 6275 as Recorded in the office of the City Clerk
Arkansas Nonpoint Source Pollution Management Program: A resolution to authorize an
application for a Clean Water Act grant from the Arkansas Nonpoint Source Pollution
Management Program in the amount of $300,000.00 for the installation of low impact development
stormwater management elements in the Cultural Arts Corridor Civic Space.
Peter Nierengarten, Environmental Director gave a brief description of the resolution.
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www.fayetteviIle-ar.gov
City Council Meeting Minutes
January 7, 2020
Page 32 of 32
Council Member Turk: I want to commend you all for doing that. I think this is great and keep
up the good work.
Mayor Jordan: This is one of my favorite things we have done in a while. Peter, great work.
Council Member Scroggin moved to approve the resolution. Council Member Gutierrez
seconded the motion. Upon roll call the resolution passed unanimously.
Resolution 19-20 as recorded in the office of the City Clerk
Announcements:
Susan Norton, Communications & Marketing Director spoke about the locations for the food
waste composting drop-off. She stated the information can be viewed on the City of Fayetteville
website.
City Council Agenda Session Presentations:
Agenda Session Presentation - Purchase of Chevy Tahoe Police pursuit vehicles versus other
Police pursuit vehicles.
Agenda Session Presentation - Sales Tax Report & Energy Report - Paul Becker & Peter
Nierengarten.
City Council Tour: None
_; j ". � - -, 62�
Kara Paxton, City Clerk Treasurer
113 West Mountain Fayetteville, AR 72701 (479) 575-8323 www.fayetteville-ar.gov