Agendas and Minutes

City Council (View All)

Regular Meeting

Agenda
Tuesday, March 16, 1999

MINUTES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING
ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL
March 16, 1999
Civic Center Council Chambers, 1175 E. Main Street

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Shaw called the meeting to order at 7:07 p.m., in the Civic Center Council Chambers.

ROLL CALL
Councilors Laws, Hanson, Wheeldon, and Fine were present. Councilor Hauck arrived late. Councilor Reid was absent.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes of the regular meeting of March 2, 1999 were approved as presented.

The minutes of the executive session of March 2, 1999 were approved as presented.

SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS & AWARDS
1.     Presentation of retirement plaque to Assistant Fire Chief Don Paul.
Mayor Shaw read a statement in recognition of Assistant Fire Chief Don Paul's retirement.

2.     Update and presentation by the Airport Commission.
Public Works Director Paula Brown introduced Airport Commissioner Bill Skillman, who presented a slide show introducing the other Commission members, listing the goals of the Airport Commission, and outlining the history of Sumner Parker Field. Skillman invited Councilors and audience members to Airport Appreciation Day activities which are scheduled to be held May 23rd. Noted that the airport brings $1.4 million into the City as direct income, with $3.4 million in indirect income, according to a Southern Oregon University study. Thanked the Ashland Airport Association. Noted that fixed base operator Bob Skinner has five full time employees, and that growth has been controlled and intelligent. Concluded that in total, the airport creates ten to twelve full time jobs that would otherwise not be in the community.

CONSENT AGENDA
1.     Minutes of Boards, Commissions and Committees.
2.     Monthly Departmental Reports.
3.     A motion to approve the move of a designated historic structure at 134 Church Street.
4.     Approval of Liquor License Application from Don Mercer dba Omar's, Inc.
5.     Approval of Liquor License Application from Salvador De La Cruz dba Si Casa Flores.

Councilors Fine/Hanson m/s to approve the consent agenda. Voice vote: All AYES. Motion passed.

PUBLIC HEARINGS
1.     Consideration of a Resolution calling a Special Election to submit to the voters the question of contracting a general obligation bonded indebtedness in the amount of $7,600,000 to finance the expansion and renovation of the city's historic Carnegie Library.
Mayor Shaw noted that a decision would not occur tonight, but that the Council would deliberate and reach a decision at the meeting to be held at noon in the Council Chambers on Thursday, March 18th.

Assistant City Administrator Greg Scoles gave a brief background presentation on the proposed library expansion. Noted the November 17th request from Friends of the Ashland Public Library which asked: 1) That the issue be put to the voters; 2) That expansion occur on the current site; 3) That the adjacent commercial property be acquired; 4) That adequate parking be provided.

Scoles noted that Council had authorized to move forward with looking into the possibility of an expansion at that time. Noted that there had been some debate about whether an RFP were necessary, and confirmed that the full RFP process had occurred. Explained that SERA Architects from Portland was chosen, and noted that they were on hand tonight to speak on the design and the public participation process.

Scoles noted the level of difficulty involved in putting this proposal together by the March 18th deadline for inclusion on the May 18th ballot, and recognized the significant contributions of concerned Ashland citizens and the SERA design team. Thanked the ad hoc Public Library Improvement Committee members Cathy Shaw, Marjorie O'Harra, John Fields, Jim Lewis, Bob Wilson, Pat Blair, Amy Blossom, Sheila Burns, Barbara Ryberg, Ed Hungerford, Leslie Klecan, Marilyn Briggs, Phyllis Reynolds, Mark Knox, and Greg Scoles. Noted that there was background data in the Council packets, including surveys, to explain the reasons behind this process.

Bing Sheldon of SERA Architects introduced John Echlin, also of SERA; historic preservation consultant George Kramer; and local architect Raymond Kistler. Sheldon explained the need for the design to work within the historical context of the existing structure at a reasonable cost. Stated that they had solicited public input through an inclusive visioning process tailored to accommodate both the circumstances of this situation and the tight schedule. Noted that the design team recognized the need for a cooperative relationship between the City and Jackson County.

Kistler spoke about the process, noting that the team spent two weeks going through the building looking at the previous remodels, additions, and rain damage, and prepared "as-built" drawings of the downstairs. Stated that the upstairs remains in its original context. Explained that they looked at space needs and suggested modifications, and worked with the library committee to develop goals, which included public input, coordinating efforts with the County, recognizing the importance of the Carnegie Library as a downtown anchor, maintaining the library's historic integrity, retaining functionality, and improving parking and pedestrian access.

Kistler noted that the first workshop began by looking at the design teams space needs determinations. There were thirty participants, and time was spent looking at whether a building could be made to fit this site. From that beginning, the design team came up with three ideas which were presented at a week-long vision camp. The second workshop had 60 participants who worked to refine the design and give feedback. The design team then met with the library committee to decide on one or two design themes. They returned to Portland to refine these themes and determine what worked. Noted that they have again met with the committee and narrowed their two options down to one, and this week have been working on final designs, cost estimates, and this presentation.

Echlin noted that project goal statements were displayed in the Chambers. Explained that the design team has worked extensively with the public and the committee to generate concept options. Noted that they have looked at the city's standards and the site itself to develop the first diagrams. Noted the three schemes that were looked at: one story, two stories, or a detached addition. The idea of a below-ground addition or an L-shaped addition came out of the first visioning workshop. The below-ground option and an above-ground option were the final two designs that were looked at. Based on the committee's input, the design team recommends the above-ground option. Noted that the design goals are being closely adhered to.

Explained that the above-ground scheme has a main level at the same level as the existing building, with an adult reading room area above. There is public space on Siskiyou Boulevard, with vehicle access in the rear, and the design is respectful of the original Carnegie building with only a small bridge for a connection. Noted that the below-ground option is more compact, with its main floor below the level of the current main floor, public space near Siskiyou Boulevard, and vehicle access to the rear.

Echlin noted that the goals were: 1) To create a civic building that would be compatible with the existing building, the site, and the neighborhood; 2) To create a building that would be functional for staff and visitors; 3) To recognize the civic importance of the library; 4) To improve the site's accessibility; 5) To provide a 100-year structure that will look to the future; 6) To use state-of-the-art technology; and 7) To utilize sustainable elements and principles in the project's design and construction.

Noted the model that was on display in the Chambers, as well as an overall view of the existing concept, and explained the scale of the project. Suggested that the public/civic space would create a plaza similar to Pioneer Square in Portland. Pointed out the water feature that is included in the design, and noted that efforts had been made to maintain the existing trees. Also stated that the "multi-purpose" room would be available separately for community use. Noted the disabled access, the second floor reading area, and features including the outdoor reading terrace. Also stated that there was a possibility for community use of the downstairs, which would be renovated and opened up.

Used elevations to illustrate how the proposed design would be complementary to the current Carnegie building. Noted that the curved roof form was used to lower the height of the building to keep a lower profile and allow more light into the reading area. Noted that the grade of the site would require slight excavation to the rear, and emphasized that the downstairs would be fully day-lighted.

Showed views of the existing structure, noting the landscaping and refurbishment potential. Noted the existing addition to the rear of the building, and stated that the rear would be restored to its original configuration. Provided some historic photos to illustrate the character of the library, and discussed the model. Also noted that the alley would be widened, and parking spaces and landscaping added. Pointed out the displayed sketches which show the character of the proposed new addition, and give the viewer an idea of the quality and character of the public space which will be somewhat of a "mini-acropolis".

Bing spoke about costs for the 28,986 square feet building proposed, noting that the $4,767,655.00 construction cost worked out to a "per square foot" cost of $164.50. Noted that he had questioned Jenny Cooper from the Multnomah County library system, and he was told that the average per square foot cost in Portland is $185.00 in Portland. Other constructed libraries outside of urban areas in the state were constructed for $165.00 per square foot, showing that this design is well within the regional norm. Emphasized that the design team was somewhat frugal to achieve some level of budget realism.

Other costs besides the "hard" construction include: $415,000 for land acquisition; $600,000 for consultants and attorneys; $685,000 for furnishings, equipment and artwork; $110,000 for financing; $200,000 for the contingency that construction does not occur for one year; and $691,000 for project contingency; for a grand total of $7.6 million. Emphasized that these costs were based on the assumptions that there would be no relocation costs, no temporary facility, and no need for utility upgrades. Stated that the existing furniture was to be removed by the owner, and that the costs listed included $20,000 for hazardous material clean-up costs.

George Kramer spoke on the historical context of the project, noting that the Carnegie building was to be given primacy in anything done. Emphasized that the new addition must remain secondary and not detract from the historical building. Explained that the library represents the southern end of the downtown community. Pointed out that generally in historic additions and renovation work, one cannot mimic the original design. Instead, an addition must be allowed to reflect the time when it was created. Noted that in the proposed design, the addition is offset with a nearly-invisible glass walkway and placed at an angle to jut out from the Carnegie building, and has a different design. Stated that the materials and appearance are compatible, but that it is clearly differentiated in the design. Suggested that this expansion presents the opportunity to create a sense of civic pride. Emphasized that in 1912, they built something to be proud of, and stated that today we should do the same so future generations will want to preserve this addition. Recognized the importance of working in and reinforcing downtown. Suggested that this area be looked at as a secondary civic center. Explained that the proposed addition would reinforce the existing building while beginning to create a new sense of place. Noted the angling of the design of the multipurpose room to frame the downtown. Concluded that this addition is of compatible scale, that the materials will work visually, and that while the orientation is different it does not detract from the Carnegie building.

Public hearing opened at 8:16 p.m.

Russ Silbiger/562 Ray Lane/Stated his objection to the Council not voting tonight. Expressed his feeling that the existing library is cozy, and emphasized that there is a need for more parking. Suggested that he feels only a modest expansion was needed, and stated that the $2.5 million cost originally proposed by the Friends of the Library was both modest and possible. Cited several examples of other City's building similarly sized libraries for significantly larger populations. Questioned the costs. Recognized that there is a need to expand, but feels that the City should not spend this much. Noted that this design ignores library standards by splitting floors, and ignores the County's concerns over staffing. Pointed out that the County has been unable to maintain the current building, and stated that the City should wait to see the County's plan before building. Stated that this design is not appropriate to the site, and that there are traffic and parking problems. Also suggested that there is some doubt as to the availability of the neighboring commercial property, and stated that the site by itself does not meet needs. Concluded that unlike the library, a fire station has been a Council goal for years, and stated that both the size and the cost are out of line with current standards.
Colin Swales/143 Eighth Street/Agreed with most of what Silbiger had to say. Stated that this design was the wrong size, and that creating a design by committee has resulted in a hybrid that does not work on any level. As proposed, the addition does not enhance the existing building's Greek temple style, and serves more to pay homage to the Safeway building across the street. Feels that the new addition would dominate the existing structure, diminishing and minimizing it. Concluded that the architecture is marvelous given the conditions and time constraints, but is wrong for the site and is not the design that was needed.

Dennis Donahue/48 Gresham Street/In favor of libraries, and of enlarging the library. Questioned why the Pacific Northwest Natural History Museum could not be used as a research annex, with the existing library as a reading library.
Councilor Hauck arrived at 8:28 p.m.

John Kalb/580 Elizabeth Street/Stated that he has a chiropractic practice in the commercial building next door, and noted that he is concerned with the plan, although it is beautiful. Stated that he favors expansion, but explained that the building's owners have assured him that the building is not for sale. Emphasized that there are five local businesses on the site, and they have been there for an average of fifteen years each. Explained that the design is too large, and that there is little room to expand the alley. Expressed concern that the County does not support this expansion, and that the original architect commissioned by the Friends of the Library recommended a different site.

Rick Nagel/450 Siskiyou Boulevard/Stated that he is in one of the offices nearby that would be removed, and he does not want to give up this ideal office location. Pointed out that there are not any other available spaces that compare, and noted that a move would be costly and rent would be higher by about $500 per month. Stated that this design is beautiful, and that he is in favor of libraries, but he does not want to lose this building.

Barbara Ryberg/373 Vista Street/Representing Friends of the Library/Noted that the actions taken to date have been based on studies conducted between 1990 and 1994. Explained that the library was a point of pride when it was built in 1891, but it is not a source of pride today. Emphasized that this proposal would cost only $58.52 per year for the owner of a $100,000 home, and that this cost is comparable to other new libraries being constructed elsewhere. Emphasized the service that this new addition would provide for children and young adults, and noted that it includes furnishings, equipment, and computers. Pointed out that the County will need to pay for increased operating costs for all branches of the County library system. Questioned how, if a new addition does not enhance the library, it would be enhanced by leaving it as is. Also questioned how staffing and operations would be paid for if the Library were split between two locations. Emphasized that they do not want to displace the neighbors, but the Friends of the Library have committed to this project and will attempt to assist in mitigating costs through grants and an expansion fund. Noted that the Friends of the Library has tripled their membership since 1994, and their support in the community is strong.

Shaw asked why the Pacific Northwest Natural History Museum was not an option. Ryberg stated that she has heard these suggestions numerous times, and that the museum is university property. Suggested that those interested in this need to contact the University directly. Feels that it is not within the province of the City to discuss using University property. Emphasized that the museum is in receivership, operations costs are high due to the design and configuration, and the museum property is not available.

Bob and Marjorie O'Harra/1235 South Tolman Creek Road/Submitted letter of support, urging that this project be submitted to a vote of the people.

Public hearing closed at 8:37 p.m.

Laws stated that this is a beautiful project, but he was shocked by the costs. He is worried about how this fits into the Council priorities as far as the next major City project. Stated that he is not sure that the time for this project is now. Laws emphasized that fire stations will need to be the priority very soon, and also expressed his concern with the need for a condemnation of the neighboring property in this case.

Hauck stated that he was generally supportive, and feels that it is a beautiful project, but noted that he was concerned with the issues of cost and condemnation. Concluded that he is generally in support of moving ahead.

Hanson expressed his concerns with the large size and expense, and suggested that fire stations are more of a priority.

Wheeldon likes project, feels that it does a good job of fitting the space, and likes the idea of bracketing the downtown. Noted that she is concerned with the need to acquire the neighboring property. Emphasized that the City needs a public space like this, and that we would not want anything less. Concluded that she does not have a problem with the cost. Stated that you could get something else for less, but she does not want to go for a lesser design with the library. Feels that the improvement needs to be on this scale to remain consistent with the Carnegie building.

Fine stated that if voting today, he would ask to postpone sending this to a vote of the people for four reasons: 1) The City needs to deal with the fire stations; 2) Staff estimates in a resolution six weeks ago were for a $4 million cost, and the current $7.6 million project is too grandiose and includes many unessential elements; 3) This proposal quadruples the size of the library while adding very few parking spaces, and off-street parking is already in short supply in the neighborhood; 4) He questions the spending of $67,014 in public money to plan a library for the ideal rather than the real world. Feels that the Council must allocate scare tax dollars among all necessary capital construction projects, including an adequate, affordable addition to the library. For these reasons he cannot support this nearly $8 million bond issue at the present time.

Called break at 8:47 p.m. Council Chairperson Laws resumed the meeting at 9:00 p.m.

PUBLIC FORUM
Opened at 9:01 p.m.

Russ Dale/585 Allison Street/Spoke briefly about historic preservation relative to George Kramer's letter of March 5th, which asked for review of the City's historic preservation ordinance. Dale feels there are significant buildings that may come into question in the future, and asks that the Council proceed quickly. Provided informational hand-outs from the State Historical Preservation Office, a Connecticut ordinance, and three ordinances that are in effect in Jacksonville, Eugene and Portland. Noted that he would appreciate the Council's attention and support in implementing revisions to give tools to protect historic structures.

Closed at 9:04 p.m.


UNFINISHED BUSINESS None.

NEW AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS
1.     Council Meeting Look Ahead.
Freeman noted that the WWTP Offsite Spray follow-up presentation would be scheduled on April 6th, not April 20th. Also noted that number seven would be rescheduled for the April 8th study session. Stated that these would be corrected on the next revision of the LookAhead.

Wheeldon asked if the WWTP update would address issues raised in the previous discussion, such as pathogens, and whether the information requested by Councilor Laws would be provided. Freeman stated that he hoped to have a representative of the Department of Environmental Quality available to explain their standards, discuss risk factors, and clarify the speculations that were arising. Noted that this study session was not intended for public comment, but would be to provide information in response to the Council's requests.

2.     Request for Sewer Service outside the City limits, but within the City's Urban Growth Boundary (Bill and Shannon Beebe, agents of owner Mary Barr, 3103 E. Main St.)

Fine noted that he is the attorney for an adjacent property owner, and because any precedent set here could be of financial benefit to his client he opted to excuse himself due to this potential economic conflict.

Council discussed whether a motion was necessary to allow Councilor Fine to excuse himself, and it was determined that no motion was needed as this was a matter of potential economic conflict.

Councilor Fine exited the room.

Public Works Director Paula Brown explained for the Council that this request does not meet the full requirements of the ordinance, and noted that the applicant's are here to speak about this matter. Stated that she would be available to answer any questions the Council may have.

Hauck questioned the City Attorney, and Nolte confirmed that it was mandatory ordinance and the request could only be granted if all conditions were met. Nolte emphasized that if the request were granted it would not comply with the ordinance as there is no existing home on the site.

It was noted that the applicants are seeking home site approval with the County, and that a septic is not favored. Noted that they could come to the Council after a home is constructed and the septic system has failed.

Laws questioned the difficulty in annexing this property. Director of Community Development John McLaughlin noted that the property is zoned E-1 and could be annexed for business use but not for residential.

Hauck questioned whether, if there was a house in place despite it being E1, it would meet the requirements of the ordinance. Nolte confirmed that it would need to have an occupied dwelling with a failing septic system.

Bill Beebe/8767 West Evans Creek Road, Rogue River/Read a prepared statement, noting that he and his wife are purchasing land outside of the city but within the urban growth boundary, and have contracted to have a home built. They have spoken at length about sewage disposal methods, and while a septic system has been approved on the site there is a high possibility of drain field failure due to the amount of surface water present. Emphasized that they have been advised by contractors, city and county officials, and the DEQ, who have all confirmed this as a potential problem. Pointed out that there is a surface spring with drainage near Neil Creek, and even with setbacks, the septic system's failure would contaminate Neil Creek. He believes this hazard can be avoided to safeguard his family, the community and the environment. Noted that his neighbor was approved before he began building, and feels that this set a precedent.

Staff explained that the ordinance took effect after the neighbor's request was approved. Council discussion of whether this could be addressed, and the history of the ordinance.

Councilors Wheeldon/Hauck m/s to deny the request. Voice vote: All AYES.

Councilor Fine returned.

3.     Update and presentation by Fire Chief regarding priority dispatch.
Fire Chief Keith Woodley, Police Chief Scott Fleuter and EMS/Fire Training Director Sue Shulters came forward to discuss the priority dispatch system. Woodley noted that they are proposing to update the City's ordinance, and read the council communication included in the packets. Woodley noted that Shulters had attended a recent workshop on priority dispatch, and stated that the County is already using this system. Expressed his concern over the existence of different response criteria between Ashland Fire and Rescue and the County when responding to incidents outside of the City.

Shulters stated that the proposed ordinance has to do with current medical treatment protocols, and will not endanger patients. The ordinance will merely facilitate a priority dispatch system.

Laws questioned the term "emergent" used in the council communication, and Shulters explained that it referred to life-threatening conditions such as cardiac arrest, difficulty breathing, and diabetic emergencies. Shulters noted that in most cases, broken bones are non-emergent conditions. Emphasized that under the current ordinance, all calls are being dispatched as emergencies.

Laws questioned whether, under the new ordinance, help would be dispatched immediately or if questions would be asked first. Shulters confirmed that there would be questions prior to dispatch, such as address, phone number, and the condition of the patient, but that this did not delay dispatch more than a second over the previous standard. Explained that the priority dispatch protocol was developed by emergency medical physicians, and there have been no problems with responses since the system was developed.

Shulters noted that the current standards are "ALS" and "BLS," which do not apply specifically to all calls. A priority dispatch system will enable responses that are more appropriate to the specific circumstances of the situation. Woodley noted that this type of dispatch would give "alpha, bravo, charley or delta" priority to incoming calls rather than responding at code three, with lights and sirens, on all calls. Emphasized that this will alleviate some traffic safety concerns, and will address the need to free up personnel for real emergencies. Also explained that code three responses do not great improve response times in town, as there is only a ten to fifteen second difference in how quickly an ambulance would arrive. Stated that the priority dispatch system would also better enable response to simultaneous calls by being able to assign them a priority. Woodley concluded that he wants to make the existing generic ordinance specific to address life threatening situations.

4.     Update and presentation regarding the Ashland Fiber Network.
Director of Electrical Utilities Pete Lovrovich provided a brief update on the status of the Ashland Fiber Network (AFN). Noted that for the High Speed Data (HSD), all of the backbone is up and a good portion of it is lit and working. Stated that the head-end is deployed, and some customers, including the City and some along the A Street corridor, have already been hooked up. Emphasized that there has been enormous interest in connection, both locally and from outside of town. Stated that things are progressing quickly, and they will go into more detail through the budget process. Explained that the Request For Proposals (RFP) has gone out for the DS3 connection that will be the AFN's internet connection.

Lovrovich noted that on March 24th, there will be a program on RVTV dealing with CATV and cable modem service. This program will include a hands on demonstration with Lovrovich, Mike Freeman and Project A's Charley Lanusse. The program will show a demonstration of an in-house connection to the AFN.

Pointed out that the AFN programming committee has already met, and they are getting along well. Noted that they are meeting weekly, for a minimum of two hours, and they will have a proposed basic cable channel lineup this week, with the expanded service next week, and a presentation before the Council in three to four weeks. This will be followed by a rate resolution.

Presented slides of the construction being done by Adroit Construction to show the head-end area that is being constructed, and pointed out that Computer Services will be moving to this location soon. Emphasized that the construction is currently about 25 days ahead of schedule. Stated that the sheet rock was to be completed this week, and that the concrete floor was already put in upstairs where the equipment will be located.

Explained that the High Speed Data service rates had already been brought to the Council as a resolution, and noted that meetings have occurred with local internet service providers (ISPs) to explain what is being built and how it will be deployed. Lovrovich emphasized that the AFN is to be an "open access" system, to ensure the best service to the community, and noted that it will be the first open system in the country. Stated that the initial meetings explained the costs for obtaining service and the final meetings will , will give the ISPs final costs and present them with contracts. Showed Council the new logo that has been designed for the AFN.

Lovrovich noted that the AFN had bid on an Ashland School District RFP, and showed the Council a schematic of the design that had been proposed to provide network service and internet connections to all of the ten schools in the District. Stated that they will know the School District’s decision within two weeks. Confirmed for Councilor Wheeldon that others responding to this RFP would have included U.S. West and Falcon Cable. Noted that the RFP was very specific with regards to the needs of the District, but the details for meeting these needs were left open.

Also stated that bids are due on an RFP to provide internet connection for Southern Oregon University’s Residential Housing in early April. Noted that the students currently do not have internet or network access.

Hanson questioned the timeline for in-home service, and Lovrovich explained that the current timetable would have them rolling out a portion of CATV and internet services in late June, if all works as scheduled. Stated that the March 24th program on RVTV will discuss this to some degree, and a program scheduled for April 21st will give more specific dates and roll out information.

ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND CONTRACTS
1. Reading by title only of “A Resolution of the City of Ashland, Jackson County, Oregon, Calling a Special Election to Submit to the Voters the Question of Contracting a General Obligation Bonded Indebtedness in the Amount of $7,600,000 to Finance Expansion and Renovation of the City’s Historic Public Library Facilities.”

This item was postponed until the continued meeting to be held at noon on March 18th.

2. Reading by title only of “A Resolution Reducing the Special Benefit Assessment Imposed on Parcel No. 2, Partition Plat No. P-33-1991 (Richey Property) in the Ann and Clinton Streets Local Improvement District No. 71.”

Councilors Hauck/Wheeldon m/s to adopt Resolution #99-17 . Roll call vote: Hauck, Hanson, Wheeldon, Laws, and Fine, YES. Motion passed.

3. Reading by title only of “A Resolution Setting a Public Hearing to Hear a Petition For, and Any Objections to, the Vacation of New Street from its Intersection with Oak Street to its Terminus All of Which is Located between “A” Street and the Railroad Tracks.”

Councilors Wheeldon/Laws m/s to adopt Resolution #99-16. Roll call vote: Laws, Hauck, Hanson, Wheeldon, and Fine, YES. Motion passed.

4. First reading by title only of “An Ordinance Requiring Minimum Response Times by Ambulance Operators for Life Threatening Emergencies.”

Councilors Hauck/Fine m/s to move the ordinance to a second reading. Roll call vote: Wheeldon, Fine, Laws, Hauck, and Hanson, YES. Motion passed.

OTHER BUSINESS FROM COUNCIL
Laws questioned Director of Community Development John McLaughlin about decisions by the County in areas of mutual concern (outside the city, but within the urban growth boundary). McLaughlin stated that there is not a clear policy in place, and in the case discussed earlier the County’s allowed uses include residential even though the comprehensive plan has the area listed as an employment zone. Laws suggested that there was a need to work with the County on this issue. McLaughlin noted that the issue has a lot to do with individual property rights. Explained that the City’s ordinance regarding sewer connections outside the City is in place for this reason. Noted that the City could work out an agreement to administer the area in the urban growth boundary and set different standards. McLaughlin noted that this was not a matter of much concern, as these situations are only isolated incidents. Wheeldon stated that the recent Washington Street annexation and tonight’s request from the Beebe’s had raised concerns. McLaughlin noted that some of the small parcels in the urban growth boundary are still urban in size, but have not been moved into the City yet, and the ordinance was intended to prevent construction within the urban growth boundary if it could not meet standards. Laws asked McLaughlin to continue monitoring this situation and to keep monitoring Council if any concerns are raised.

ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 9:53 p.m. to a continued meeting to be held Thursday, March 18th at 12:00 noon in the Council Chambers.

Submitted by Barbara M. Christensen, City Recorder/Treasurer

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