02/12/1996 (2)
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CITY COMMISSION WORK SESSION
CITY OF CLEARWATER
February 12, 1 996
Present:
Rita Garvey
Sue A. Berfield
Fred A. Thomas
J. B. Johnson
Robert Clark
Elizabeth M. Deptula
William C. Baker
Kathy S. Rice
Pamela K. Akin
Cynthia E. Goudeau
Patricia O. Sullivan
Mayor ICommissioner
Vice-Mayor ICommissioner
Commissioner
Commissioner
Commissioner
City Manager
Assistant City Manager
Deputy City Manager
City Attorney
City Clerk
Board Reporter
The meeting was called to order at 1 :00 p.m. at City Hall.
Services Awards.
Five service awards were presented to City employees.
The Commission recessed from 1 :03 to 1 :45 p.m. to meet as the eRA (Community
Redevelopment Agency) and the Pension Trustees.
EN ENGINEERING
Lease Aareement with Arnold-Brown ProDerties for 2.906 acres, m.o.l., in Sec. 15-29H15,
W. F. Hughey's Sub., Lots 1-14 less W 30' of Lots 7 & 8, and part of Mrs. Sarah
McMulfens Sub., for 10 months comm'encing 03/15/96, for total maximum rent of
$10,000
AND
Lease Aareement with Dimmitt Car LeasinQ, Inc. for portion of Blk 1, Magnolia Park Sub..
Lots 4 & 5, part of Lot 6, along with non exclusive ingress/egress over portion of Lot 13,
for 10 months commencing 03/15/96, for total maximum rent of $4.300
The Arnold lease premises contain asphalt surfacing for approximately 66 vehicles
and is approximately 70% unimproved. The site will provide parking for approximately
195 employee vehicles during construction of the new Municipal Services complex parking
garage. Monthly rent of $1,000 is equal to approximately $5.13 per vehicle. The Dimmitt
lease premises will provide a minimum 'of 43 paved parking spaces in the 800 block of
Cleveland Street for the same time period. Monthly rent of $430 is calculated at $10 per
parking space.
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Concern was expressed regarding the substantial size of proposed utility fee
increases. Engineering Director Rich Baier said permitting for utilities in the right-of-way
takes a great deal of staff time. Concern was expressed applicants may rush to obtain
permits before the rates increase. The City Attorney said the City cannot back charge for
pulled permits and she had not researched if the increased cost could be retroactive. Mr.
Baier said the Engineering Department can accept only a limited number of permit
applications at one time.
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The lease term from March 15, 1996 to January 14, 1997, includes the option by
the parties to terminate at any time with 60 days written notice to the other. During the
lease term, the City will be responsible for all maintenance and utiflties. Staff will perform
maintenance (striping and sweeping). No utility expenses are anticipated. During the
lease term, the City will maintain public liability insurance, including bodily injury and
property damage to the maximum limits provided in Florida Statutes.
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Assistant City Manager Bill Baker said this interim plan will provide parking for the
252 employees moving into the new Municipal Services building until the new parking
garage is built. The, Police Department will continue their parking arrangements to use the
St. Petersburg Times' property. Staff is negotiating to lease more of the Dimmitt property.
It was recommended staff check with the St. Petersburg Times regarding additional City
use of their parking lot. In answer to a question, the City Manager said no plan exists to
assign parking spaces and suggested they may be filled on a first come, first serve basis.
Concern was expressed regarding problems related to inclement weather.
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First Readina Ord. #5969-96 - Amendina Aooendlx A. Schedule of Fees. Rates and
Charaes for Article XIX - Streets, Sidewalks, Other Public Places
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Engineering Servicesl rate and fee schedule was last amended in 1982. Since then,
the consumer price index has increased 58.6%. A cost comparison of neighboring cities
and Pinellas County, indicates the City's fees generally are less than half of what other
cities charge for the same services.
(::;, The Engineering Services Division has instituted many informative new policies that
involve more staff time. The increased permit fee for right-at-way permits also covers the
cost of a detailed maintenance of the traffic plan now required for all work within City
streets. Staff time is needed to explain requirements to the contractor and review plans.
Recommended fee adjustments are not based solely on other cities so a linear comparison
may not be applicable. Staff involvement and the degree of service were key in
determining the proposed fee structure.
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The fee structure is basically unchanged but fees have been revised. Due to the
City's urbanization, the proposed ordinance includes a permit to cover revenue lost when a
construction use occupies a parking space for private use. Rates in sections 4 and 5 of
the proposed ordinance were based on total revenue lost per day.
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The City Manager reported staff level discussion regarding alternative ways to
address pool encroachments instead of granting vacations. The City Attorney said the
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CP CENTRAL PERMITTING
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proposal would permit encroachment to continue until the City needs the land. In answer
to a question, the City Attorney said this procedure would not provide clear title to an
encroachment but would permit it to remain until it is needed by the City. Mr. Baier said
pool decks and other structures built without permission have caused the City to vacate
small pieces of land that may be needed in the future. Residents would retain their right to
petition for vacation but the City Commission would have options to granting them.
Mr. Baier said encroachments continue in spite of staff precautions, It was
suggested the City initiate deterrents to encroachments. Mr. Baier said under the
proposal, the owner can use the property if the City does not wish to vacate it. The City
Attorney said the title would include an exception for the encroachment which would not
be covered by title insurance. The procedure will not permit property owners to use the
encroachment forever. It was recommended that C-View TV produce a program to
address this issue. Mr. Baier said in the past, a "letter of tolerance" has been sufficient for
title companies but the City needs an official record of these agreements.
It was recommended that staff review fees more often in the future. Concern was
expressed the increases are large. The City Manager noted fees for construction uses of
parking spaces are new. Staff will report on why fees for parking lot spaces are taxable
while on-street spaces are not. Mr. Baier said the Engineering Department would approve
all requests for these uses.
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Concern was expressed that fees for parking spaces differed. Consensus was to
charge a $7.50 daily fee for beach parking spaces and a $3 daily fee for downtown I
parking spaces.
(Cont'd from 02/01/96l Parking Soace Utilization Agreements for Clearwater Beach
The City Manager reported not all issues regarding this item are settled and
recommended pulling it from Thursday's agenda, Central Permitting Director Scott Shuford
said all parties are close to resolving the issue. The City Manager noted business owners'
concerns regarding grandfathering agreements and the language.
Consensus was to pull the item.
Receiot/Referral - LDCA revisinQ Sec. 35.11 to establish definition of Convention Center
The City Attorney, Harborview Center management and Central Permitting staff
recently met with State alcoholic beverage officials concerning the sale and service of
alcoholic beverages at the Harborview Center. Elimination of the third floor restaurant
affected plans to cover alcoholic beverage service in the Center with that restaurant's
license. That is no longer possible. A proposal for a series of one-day permits was not
approved by State officials. The City currently is seeking a State "civic center" license.
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Second Reading Ordinances
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To clarify this issue locally. it Is necessary to define convention center in City code.
An amendment was prepared to accomplish this purpOSA. The Planning & Zoning Board
will need to review the ordinance.
It was suggested staff clarify if the Harborview Center is a convention center or
conference center. Mr. Shuford said staff wants to ensure the language covers more than
conference centers connected to hotels/motels. The Harborview Center currently is the
only convention center facility in the City,
CA LEGAL DEPARTMENT
Ord. #5942-95 - Amending Sec. 35.11. to revise definition for "Delicatessen": amendina
Secs. 40.383 & 40.403 to revise the unit number and floor area requirements for
restaurants in Hotels/Motels: amending Sees. 41.071. 41.072 & 41,074 to orovide for
conditional use oermits and accessory use designations for certain tvoes of alcoholic
beveraqe uses (LDCA 95-21)
The City Attorney indicated the current ordinance permits anyone with an interest
other than the public at large to appeal decisions regarding alcoholic beverage uses. She
said amending the language would restrict rather than enhance the privilege to appeal.
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It was noted this issue was addressed due to restrictions affecting Pelican Walk
shopping center on Clearwater beach. It was pointed out other small shopping centers
face similar problems. It was requested the record indicate this change is to make Pelican
Walk's second floor a viable food court.
Mr. Shuford said the Planning & Zoning Board had indicated their concept for
revising alcohol sales requirements in hotels/motels was limited to in-room service bars.
He said revisions do not address in-room service only. According to the proposed
ordinance, this use will not require additional parking. A property will be required to meet
all requirements if they open a new facility or construct a building addition. Mr. Shuford
said, under the proposed language, only hotels/motels with between 50 and 99 rooms
could convert rooms and open a small restaurant. He said only the Americana Gulf Resort
could take advantage of this ordinance without obtaining variances. The ordinance applies
City-wide.
Ord. #5956-95 - Amendina Sees. 21.10 & 42.35 to orovide for temoorarv storaoe of
Recreational Vehicles for lodging Durooses at the Harborview Center
Mr. Shuford distributed information regarding how RV parking is handled at other
facilities within the State similar in size to the Harborview Center. The Tampa Convention
Center does not provide for RV (Recreational Vehicle) parking. It was requested the rules
covering RVs be put of the tracking list for City Commission review in six months. It was
requested the resolution adopting RV parking rules be read immediately after this ordinance
is passed on Thursday.
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Resolutions
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Res. #96~16 ~ Assessing Drooertv owners the costs of mowina or havlna cleared owners'
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In answer to a question, the City Attorney said in the past the City has not been
aggressive in collecting liens. Staff has started a lien collection effort. The City Manager
noted staff will request negotiating room to settle liens. The City Attorney said
negotiations would be based on a number of factors including properties' value. Some
enforceability issues may occur. Staff will establish guidelines for City Commission
approval.
The City Attorney said the City can foreclose on property but senior liens may exist.
Staff will need to determine the value of liens. Requests are anticipated from those
obtaining properties through tax sales. In answer to a question, she said Pinellas County
handles tax liens.
The City Attorney proposed permitting the City Manager to negotiate payment
within specific thresholds without City Commission approval. It was suggested a report of
this activity be provided to the City Commission. The City Manager will forward a
proposed procedure to the City Commission.
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OTHER CITY ATTORNEY ITEMS
The City Attorney reported the DeSantis litigation seems to be nearing closure after
11 years. It appears the City will be successful.
City Manager Verbal Reports
Tourism Promotion
Tourism Director Jean Sherry reported she spent most of last week in Chicago
where she met with travel agents and tour groups. She said it was a great networking
opportunity and the exposure was beneficial to Clearwater tourism. She presented the 30~
second commercial curren~ly being shown in Chicago.
Ms. Sherry said the next advertising venture is a radio commercial in Chicago in
cooperation with AT A which is providing free airline tickets and supporting the spot. The
promotion includes a week's worth of clues to help contestants identify a mystery person.
A short discussion of this program will be held Thursday night. People who call the 800
number highlighted in the commercial are sent the City's brochure. The City Manager
indicated a list of callers is available to all. City departments are designing a brochure that
includes activities available at City facilities..
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, Voting
It was suggested a Charter amendment be considered to hold City elections in
February as it wa,s felt it is not wise to hold them the same day as the Presidential Primary.
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The City Manager Indicated Pine lias County sent a copy of their resolution to
proyide County employees an hour off to Yote. She did not think it was appropriate for
City employees to get an hour off for this purpose but encouraged all residents and
employees to vote.
Pickles Plus
Mr. Baker reported a disagreement with Pickles Plus regarding their facility in the
Harborview Center has been resolved. He estimated the restaurant wiU open in five
months.
Employee request per China trip
The City Manager reported an employee request for the City to sponsor his trip to
China with a Public Works delegation. She felt it was not appropriate for the City to
provide such sponsorship but 'wished him well in raising funds privately.
Camp Soule
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The City Manager reported she will attend a meeting on February 16, 1996,
regarding Camp Soule. She noted the State grant has a finite period for response and the
Boy Scouts who own the camp have not committed to its sale. She questioned if the City
would be willing to contribute to the camp's purchase if the private sector is unable to
raise the necessary $1 A-million.
It was felt the Camp Soule discussion should remain separate from the proposed
extension of Landmark Drive. Decisions regarding extending Landmark Drive and
developing Lake Chautauqua Park are time sensitive and should not relate to the proposed
purchase of Camp Soule. It was noted daily public access to Lake Chautauqua Park would
not be available if the Boy Scouts want to retain control of Camp Soule. The City Manager
suggested the City may be able to construct a small access road around the camp's
perimeter.
It was suggested the City take a proactive role negotiating with the Boy Scouts to
end up with control of the Camp Soule and School Board property. Multiple issues faced
by the Boy Scouts were noted. It was suggested money budgeted for the Landmark Drive
extension be used toward the purchase of Camp Soule. It was noted the Boy Scouts will
not allow private fundraising for the Camp.
An unwillingness to negotiate the $1-million out of the Landmark Drive extension
was voiced. It was noted $1 A-million was needed to complete the purchase of Camp
Soule. It was suggested Lake Chautauqua Park could be accessed through Camp Soule.
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Commission Discussion Items
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It was recommended the City Manager not negotiate but gather facts. Interest in a
possible City purchase of Camp Soule was expressed.
Two distinct issues were noted: 1) Landmark Drive extension and 2) Camp Soule
purchase. It was felt a decision regarding the Landmark Drive extension should not wait
for a decision regarding Camp Soule. The City Manager said she will gather facts
regarding the City's participation with the State's grant which is valued at $1 A-million.
Once the City Manager collects information, the City Commission will decide whether or
not to proceed. The City Manager will forward a report on her meeting early next week.
The Commission recessed from 3:01 to 3:17 p.m.
City Loqo
It was felt the City should spend the $10 fee to trademark and protect all original
City artwork. The value of protecting it was questioned as some of the subject artwork
was copied from other sources. It was recommended staff identify original artwork they
feel is important enough to protect. Information Management Director Jeff Harper said the
City may want to copyright a logo. He suggested the City may wish to copyright the CGS
(Clearwater Gas System) logo created by the Graphics Department. It was noted the City
is a business and should protect itself.
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Concern was expressed regarding the lack of consistency in the way the City
identifies itself. It was recommended the City design and utilize a single logo. It was felt
Ms. Sherry has expertise in this area and should be involved in the design. It was
suggested the look of City's headquarters conform.
Prosoective croiects for Penny for Pinellas
It was noted current Penny for Pinellas funding concludes in 2000. An extension to
2010 has been proposed. The City Manager said the County Administrator has approved
more time for the City to identify projects. Decisions will be made following the Spring
election. Penny for Pine lias funds cannot be used to reduce taxes but allows the City to
complete infrastructure projects quicker .than by normal property tax collection means.
The City Manager said the County funded the Pinellas Trail,
lightina Clearwater Pass Bridge
Mr. Baier presented a video of the lighting of a bridge in Miami. Proposed lighting of
the Clearwater Pass Bridge will illuminate the entire deck beam, not the pilings. The result
is difficult to replicate in a computer drawing. The brightness of the effect will vary but no
dark spots will occur.
Consensus was to go forward with the project as proposed.
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Consensus was to disapprove the requested waiver.
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Scientoloaists reouest for road closure for event on 03/15/96
The January 31, 1996, letter from Mary Story of the Church of Scientology referred
to the organization's planned event on March 15, 1996, and requested a partial street
closure of one southbound lane of Fort Harrison Street between Pierce and Franklin
Streets. Concern was expressed repairs on Myrtle Street already impact traffic. The City
Manager indicated the event will be held between 6:00 p.m, and midnight and traffic
should not be a problem.
Consensus was to place this on the Consent Agenda for approval at Thursday's
meeting.' ,
Direction re Robotic Garaoe Procosal
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Mr. Baier's January 30, 1996, memorandum indicated Gerhard Haag, representative
for a robotic garage parking corporation, had questioned the Commission's receptiveness
to a robotic garage downtown or on the beach. His company would be interested in
placing a showcase-type facility on City property and financing the majority of construction
related costs. He requested the City invest the land and 25% of the cost ($300,000).
The City would operate and maintain the facility.
Opposition to the proposal was expressed as City land and money should not be
spent to construct unproved technology. Consensus was to not pursue the request.
Drua Free Workolace
The City Attorney said Commissioner Thomas had questioned if the City qualifies as
a drug free workplace even though it has not adopted Chapter 440. She noted a case
cited in information from the State's Attorney office did not include the highest rendered
opinion. Commissioner Thomas recommended the City adopt a drug free workplace
ordinance to send a message to employees. Deputy City Manager Kathy Rice said the
City's drug free workplace policy is more stringent than other local jurisdictions. Some
aspect of Chapter 440 relates to a union bargained issue. Mayor Garvey said the issue
should not be pursued further. In answer to a question, Ms. Rice said all employees know
the City has a drug free policy covering all employees. Federal law does not allow random
testing of all City employees and that is not a Chapter 440 requirement. Commissioner
Thomas recommended lobbying to allow random testing of all City employees.
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Other Commission Action
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Ms. Rice seid 4% of City employees tested have tested positive. Commissioner
Thomas said his company's workforce tests much lower. The City Attorney noted the
narrow pool of employees the City tests does not include management, etc. Ms. Rice
reported results from pretesting all employees prior to employment indicate a higher rate of
positive results in the general public. Commissioner Thomas felt some departments have
greater problems than others with drug abuse. Ms. Rice said that is not a proven fact.
Commissioner Berfield questioned the advantage of adopting Chapter 440. The City
Attorney said under Chapter 440, the City would qualify for a rebate if the State funds the
rebate program, which is unlikely. If the City were 440 qualified, employees involved in
accidents who test positive would not receive workers' compensation. She said current
restrictions already provide a presumption in the City's favor.
Commissioner Thomas expressed concern the City is not a drug free workplace by
State statute. In ans~er to a question, the City Attorney said to be 440 qualified, the City
would have to negotiate a change in union contracts and adopt the plan. The only portion
of the City's drug~free plan not in compliance with Chapter 440 is that City Police and Fire
employees are not tested for drugs during routine physicals. That procedure would require
bargaining. Commissioner Thomas could not conceive unions objecting to this testing.
Ms. Rice will report how soon employees are tested for drug use after an accident.
The majority of the Commission directed no change to current City policy.
Commissioner Thomas referred to a fax from O'Keefe's restaurant regarding Police
and Fire requirements for their St. Patrick's day celebration. He noted the City had
indicated they were satisfied after the restaurant made changes last year and questioned
why the City is requiring a major change. The City Manager will report on this issue.
Commissioner Clark referred to a letter from Reverend Graham regarding picnic
shelters. The City Manager said funding for the shelters is included in the CIP budget.
Some community members had indicated they wanted the funds used for something else
but current plans are to build the shelters. They cannot be constructed on school property.
She will bring forward this issue at a future City Commission meeting.
Commissioner Clark referred to a complaint regarding heat at the Neighborly Senior
Services facility. It was indicated the City has no control over that issue.
Commissioner Clark questioned which sites in Clearwater were suggested to the
CVB (Convention and Visitors' Bureau). Mayor Garvey indicated the Clearwater Tower is
available. The City Manager's office will provide a list.
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Commissioner Clark referred to a letter from FOOT (Florida Department of
Transportation) regarding the intersection at US 19N and Drew Street. Mr. Baier said
another study will be done to consider the feasibility of building a Drew Street overpass
above US 19N rather than a US 19N overpass above Drew Street.
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Commissi9ner Clark referred to the letter to Walker Ford regarding their inclusion in
the wrecker service rotation even though the dealership is located outside City limits. It
was noted Walker Ford will tow cars to their facility which is close to the City. Another
business tows cars to an Ulmerton Road facility. The City Manager indicated Walker Ford
meets all other City qualifications. Staff is tooking to see if other dealerships close to the
City's limits also qualify.
Commissioner Berfield said she could not attend a special ODB (Downtown
Development Board) meeting scheduled for February 19, 1996. The Mayor also cannot
attend. It was requested, if possible, someone from the City attend.
Commissi9ner Barfield referred to a letter regarding mildew on the underside of the
US 19N overpass above Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard. Mr. Baier said staff has referred the
matter to FOOT. The City Manager said the City may end up with long term commitments
if they begin to address problems on the many roads under FOOT jurisdiction within the
City. Commissioner Thomas suggested the City apply to FDOT for funds for these
maintenance needs and have the agency acknowledge their responsibility. Mr. Baier will
report back on his findings. Parks & Recreation Director Ream Wilson reported the City
has been maintaining the grass medians on Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard and has met with FOOT,
requesting them to fund that expense.
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Commissioner Berfield referred to complaints regarding the speed limit on the
Clearwater Pass Bridge heading onto Sand Key. Mr. Baier said during several trips across
the bridge, his car's velocity only increased from 30 mph at the top to 33 mph at the
bottom. He felt the posted speed limit is appropriate. The Police are issuing many
warnings and have not set a speed trap.
Commissioner Johnson referred to a letter from David Campbell indicating he had
not received an answer to his August 1995 letter. It was stated the City Manager's office
is issuing a reply.
Commissioner Johnson questioned who Marcia Hale is. It was indicated she sends
information.
Commissioner Johnson questioned what was expected of the BAC (Budget
Advisory Committee). The City Manager indicated the BAC is different from other boards
as it is composed of representatives appointed by each Commissioner. The Mayor said the
board allows citizens to be involved with the budget process. Beginning in May, each
board will meet with the City Commission for direction. The BAC will be the first board to
appear. The City Manager said the lack of direction for this board has been a long term
problem. It was questioned if the board is needed. Frustration expressed by former board
members was noted.
Consensus was for the City Commission to review all boards after the election.
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Commissioner Thomas expressed concern regarding the Vogel's legal parameters
and questioned what commitments the City has to Mr. Vogel's right to access his
property. He suggested Mr. Vogel share the cost of the extension. He requested a legal
opinion to identify the City's risk, The City Attorney said the City does not owe Mr. Vogel
construction of a right-of-way. She expressed concern the City not vacate the right-of-
way and cut Mr. Vogel off from his legal, access. The City would require additional right-
of-way from Mr. Vogel. Mr. Baird said that right-of-way would be needed for setback, not
more lanes. Commissioner Berfield questioned if the City could construct the culvert only.
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Commissioner Johns..Qll referred to a letter regarding the Airpark. He supported the
Airpark's continued existence and said he was unaware of plans to close it. The City
Manager indicated the agreement with the FBO (Fixed Base Operator) is up for renewal and
Is going out for bid. The City Commission had provided direction for staff to review all
land uses before automatically renewing agreements. Commissioner Thomas felt the
Airpark land represents a tremendously under used City asset and recommended evaluating
its value. He noted the Airpark is used by non-City residents, He said data on the property
should be gathered and available before the lease on the adjoining golf course expires in
seven years. The Mayor said retaining the golf course is important but recommended
negotiating a new agreement.
Commissioner Johnson questioned when the City Commission again would address
the proposed landmark Drive extension. The City Attorney said Mr. Wilson met with the
DEP (Department of Environmental Protection) wtto indicated vehicular access must be
provided to the park. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements obligate the City
to provide vehicular access. Commissioner Berfield said the City looked bad when the
newspaper editorial recently appeared and citizens called questioning why the City could
not pick up the phone and obtain answers. The City Attorney said the City had to contact
someone familiar with the project and explore other options.
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The City Manager said she had not planned to bring this issue back now. Exploring
the Camp Soule issue will take a while. She recommended against vacating any right-of-
way at this time. She suggested the City Commission may want to consider a narrow
drive into the park property. She said Saber Drive could be vacated so no connection to
the extension could ever be made from that street. Commissioner Clark questioned if the
wishes of the Marlo Boulevard neighborhood had been investigated. Commissioner
Thomas said the whole package. including the Boy Scout property, first must be reviewed.
Mayor Garvey noted the Marlo Boulevard neighborhood needs to be contacted to see if
they want to be connected to the park driveway if it is constructed. Commissioner
Thomas said a decision on the Boy Scout property should be reached within 60 days.
Mayor Garvey suggested addressing this issue in 30 to 45 days after staff has
gathered additional information. Commissioner Johnson expressed concern regarding th~
amount of time remaining before the landmark Drive extension must be built. Mr. Baier
said the driving force is the City's dredge and fill permit which expires in Summer 1997.
He said a decision regarding this issue must be reached by June 1996. The City has been
advised they cannot get an extension of the permit. Commissioner Johnson suggested
making a decision regarding this issue within 30 days.
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Adjourn
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Mr. Baier recommended not just building a culvert. He said the best suggestion would be
to bring the road at least to the Vogel property. Commissioner Thomas requested a 30-
day cycle to see if Mr. Vogel will pay to develop his access. Mr. Baier estimated the cost
for mitigation at $200,000 and the roadway at $700,000. To Saber Drive, he estimated
the roadway cost between $600,000 and $650,000. He estimated the cost to design the
project is $100,000 and indicated the City already has it designed to the Vogel property.
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Commissioner Thomas suggested the City could turn the design over to the Vogals
if the City does not need to build access to the park. Mr. Baier said the project would take
six weeks to bid. He expressed concern with turning it over to the Vogels and them not
building it. Mr. Wilson said the City had told the State the first phase of the park would be
completed by November 20, 1996. He suggested the State may be willing to extend that
deadline. He noted access across the Boy Scout property to lake Chautauqua would have
to meet ADA requirements. The City Manager expressed concern building access across
the Boy Scout property would impact a different set of property owners who never had an
indication a roadway would be constructed near their houses. Commissioner Clark noted
citizen concern regarding landmark Drive extending south to Union Street. Mr. Wilson
said if landmark is extended it could be gated South of the Vogel property when the park
is closed. Commissioner Johnson noted that would cut off access from Marlo Boulevard.
City Manager said the Landmark Drive extension is not planned to extend to Union Street
at this point. Mr. Baier said the City does not have adequate right-of-way South of the
park nor land to serve for retention. Commissioner Berfield said if access to the park can
be achieved via Camp Soule, the City could provide the design to the Vogals for them to
construct the access.
Consensus was to address the issue at the April 15, 1996, Work Session and April
18, 1996, City Commission meeting.
Mavor Garvev questioned if the Ice House currently meets code, Mr. Shuford said
it did.
Mavor Garvev noted the Festival of Trees needs to relocate. Commissioner Berfield
said the Harborview Center is working to attract the show.
Mavor Garvev noted recent cold weather turned many plants brown and questioned
if the City Commission wished to consider something heartier than the Hibiscus for the
City Flower. Commissioner Thomas said he loved Hibiscus and felt they will grow back.
Commissioner Johnson said he had been advised the plants would come back right away.
The meeting adjourned at 5:01 p.m.
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