CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING
TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
211 WEST ASPEN
4:30 P.M.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2020
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
211 WEST ASPEN
4:30 P.M.
MINUTES
1.
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Evans called the meeting of the Flagstaff City Council held January 20, 2020, to order at 4:32 p.m.
Mayor Evans called the meeting of the Flagstaff City Council held January 20, 2020, to order at 4:32 p.m.
NOTICE OF OPTION TO RECESS INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION
Pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.02, notice is hereby given to the members of the City Council and to the general public that, at this regular meeting, the City Council may vote to go into executive session, which will not be open to the public, for legal advice and discussion with the City’s attorneys for legal advice on any item listed on the following agenda, pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.03(A)(3).
2.
ROLL CALL
| NOTE: One or more Councilmembers may be in attendance telephonically or by other technological means. |
| PRESENT: MAYOR EVANS VICE MAYOR SHIMONI COUNCILMEMBER ASLAN COUNCILMEMBER MCCARTHY COUNCILMEMBER ODEGAARD COUNCILMEMBER SALAS COUNCILMEMBER WHELAN |
ABSENT: |
Others present: City Manager Greg Clifton; City Attorney Sterling Solomon.
3.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND MISSION STATEMENT
The Council and audience recited the pledge of allegiance and Councilmember Odegaard read the Mission Statement of the City of Flagstaff.
The Council and audience recited the pledge of allegiance and Councilmember Odegaard read the Mission Statement of the City of Flagstaff.
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the City of Flagstaff is to protect and enhance the quality of life for all.
4.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM PREVIOUS MEETINGS
A.
Consideration and Approval of Minutes: City Council Work Session of January 29, 2019 and Regular Meeting of February 5, 2019.
Moved by Councilmember Charlie Odegaard, seconded by Councilmember Jim McCarthy to approve the minutes of the City Council Work Session of January 29, 2019 and Regular Meeting of February 5, 2019.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
5.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Public Participation enables the public to address the Council about an item that is not on the agenda. Comments relating to items that are on the agenda will be taken at the time that the item is discussed. If you wish to address the Council at tonight's meeting, please complete a comment card and submit it to the recording clerk as soon as possible. Your name will be called when it is your turn to speak. You may address the Council up to three times throughout the meeting, including comments made during Public Participation. Please limit your remarks to three minutes per item to allow everyone an opportunity to speak. At the discretion of the Chair, ten or more persons present at the meeting and wishing to speak may appoint a representative who may have no more than fifteen minutes to speak.
None
Public Participation enables the public to address the Council about an item that is not on the agenda. Comments relating to items that are on the agenda will be taken at the time that the item is discussed. If you wish to address the Council at tonight's meeting, please complete a comment card and submit it to the recording clerk as soon as possible. Your name will be called when it is your turn to speak. You may address the Council up to three times throughout the meeting, including comments made during Public Participation. Please limit your remarks to three minutes per item to allow everyone an opportunity to speak. At the discretion of the Chair, ten or more persons present at the meeting and wishing to speak may appoint a representative who may have no more than fifteen minutes to speak.
None
6.
PROCLAMATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS
A.
Proclamation: Human Trafficking Awareness Month
Vice Mayor Shimoni read and presented the proclamation to the Flagstaff Initiative Against Trafficking.
B.
Proclamation: Mayor's Monarch Butterfly Pledge
Councilmember Aslan read presented the proclamation to Sustainability Manager Nicole Antonopoulos and the Sustainability Section staff.
C.
Recognition: City Building Official Amy Palmer's Certified Public Manager Designation
Planning Director Tiffany Antol addressed the Council to recognize Building Official Amy Palmer on becoming a Certified Public Manager.
7.
APPOINTMENTS
Pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.02, notice is hereby given to the members of the City Council and to the general public that the City Council may vote to go into executive session, which will not be open to the public, for the purpose of discussing or considering employment, assignment, appointment, promotion, demotion, dismissal, salaries, disciplining or resignation of a public officer, appointee, or employee of any public body...., pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.03(A)(1).
Pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.02, notice is hereby given to the members of the City Council and to the general public that the City Council may vote to go into executive session, which will not be open to the public, for the purpose of discussing or considering employment, assignment, appointment, promotion, demotion, dismissal, salaries, disciplining or resignation of a public officer, appointee, or employee of any public body...., pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.03(A)(1).
A.
Consideration of Appointments: Beautification and Public Art Commission.
Moved by Councilmember Jim McCarthy, seconded by Vice Mayor Adam Shimoni to appoint Jeremiah Slater to a term expiring June 2022.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
B.
Consideration of Appointments: Water Commission
Moved by Vice Mayor Adam Shimoni, seconded by Councilmember Charlie Odegaard to reappoint Ben Ruddell to a term expiring December 2022.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
8.
LIQUOR LICENSE PUBLIC HEARINGS
Mayor Evans opened the public hearing on both applications.
Police Sergeant Collin Seay briefly reviewed the applications.
Councilmember Salas congratulated Evan Anderson with Drinking Horn for winning the Moonshot business start-up award.
There being no public comment Mayor Evans closed the public hearing.
Police Sergeant Collin Seay briefly reviewed the applications.
Councilmember Salas congratulated Evan Anderson with Drinking Horn for winning the Moonshot business start-up award.
There being no public comment Mayor Evans closed the public hearing.
Moved by Councilmember Charlie Odegaard, seconded by Councilmember Regina Salas to forward both applications to the State with a recommendation for approval.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
A.
Consideration and Action on Liquor License Application: Evan Anderson, "Drinking Horn," 108 E. Route 66, Series 19, Remote Tasting Room.
B.
Consideration and Action on Liquor License Application: Riant Robert Northway, "Vino Loco," 22 E. Birch Street #1, Series 7 (beer and wine bar) Owner Transfer.
9.
CONSENT ITEMS
All matters under Consent Agenda are considered by the City Council to be routine and will be enacted by one motion approving the recommendations listed on the agenda. Unless otherwise indicated, expenditures approved by Council are budgeted items.
Moved by Councilmember Jim McCarthy, seconded by Councilmember Jamie Whelan to approve the Consent Agenda as submitted.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
A.
Consideration and Approval of Contract: Cooperative Purchase Contract (2020-56) with Parkeon, Inc. DBA Flowbird for kiosk management and mobile payment software, utilizing a National Cooperative Purchasing Alliance Contract (05-19).
- Approve a Cooperative Purchase Contract for the purchase of parking kiosks, an annual subscription for kiosk management and mobile payment software from Parkeon, Inc. DBA Flowbird (2020-56), under NCPA Contract (05-19) in an annual amount not to exceed $125,000.
- Authorize the City Manager to execute the necessary documents for the purchase of multi-space pay-to-park kiosks, the annual subscription for kiosk management and the mobile payment software from Flowbird.
B.
Consideration and Approval of a Grant Agreement: between the City of Flagstaff and the Governor's Office of Highway Safety for the Arizona Traffic and Criminal Software (Az TraCS) Implementation.
Approve the acceptance of the Grant from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety in the amount of $61,002.00, for the Flagstaff Police Department to purchase equipment to operate the AZ TraCS software. The grant funds will also be used to purchase equipment (scanners and printers) to be installed in the patrol vehicles and a server to manage the software.
Approve the acceptance of the Grant from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety in the amount of $61,002.00, for the Flagstaff Police Department to purchase equipment to operate the AZ TraCS software. The grant funds will also be used to purchase equipment (scanners and printers) to be installed in the patrol vehicles and a server to manage the software.
C.
Consideration and Approval of Mitigation Assistance Agreement: between the City of Flagstaff and Arizona Department of Emergency Management and Military Affairs for Raingauge Network Expansion.
Approve the Mitigation Assistance Agreement with the Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs, Division of Emergency Management for State Emergency Council FY 19 grant funds in the amount of $110,295 with a State share of $82,721 and a City match of $27,574.
Approve the Mitigation Assistance Agreement with the Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs, Division of Emergency Management for State Emergency Council FY 19 grant funds in the amount of $110,295 with a State share of $82,721 and a City match of $27,574.
10.
ROUTINE ITEMS
A.
Consideration and Adoption of Ordinance No. 2019-39: An ordinance amending Section 1-07-001-0005, Salaries, of the Flagstaff City Code and establishing an effective date. (An ordinance potentially changing City Council salaries.)
Human Resources Director Jeanie Gallagher introduced herself to Council and was available for any questions.
Moved by Vice Mayor Adam Shimoni, seconded by Councilmember Austin Aslan to read Ordinance No. 2019-39 by title only for the final time.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF, AMENDING SECTION 1-07-001-0005, SALARIES, OF THE FLAGSTAFF CITY CODE, AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE
Moved by Vice Mayor Adam Shimoni, seconded by Councilmember Jim McCarthy to adopt Ordinance No. 2019-39.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
RECESS
The 4:30 p.m. portion of the January 7, 2020, Regular Council Meeting recessed at 4:55 p.m.
The 4:30 p.m. portion of the January 7, 2020, Regular Council Meeting recessed at 4:55 p.m.
6:00 P.M. MEETING
RECONVENE
Mayor Evans reconvened the Regular Meeting of January 7, 2020, at 6:00 p.m.
Mayor Evans reconvened the Regular Meeting of January 7, 2020, at 6:00 p.m.
NOTICE OF OPTION TO RECESS INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION
Pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.02, notice is hereby given to the members of the City Council and to the general public that, at this regular meeting, the City Council may vote to go into executive session, which will not be open to the public, for legal advice and discussion with the City’s attorneys for legal advice on any item listed on the following agenda, pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.03(A)(3).
11.
ROLL CALL
| NOTE: One or more Councilmembers may be in attendance telephonically or by other technological means. |
| PRESENT: MAYOR EVANS VICE MAYOR SHIMONI COUNCILMEMBER ASLAN COUNCILMEMBER MCCARTHY COUNCILMEMBER ODEGAARD COUNCILMEMBER SALAS COUNCILMEMBER WHELAN |
ABSENT: |
Others present: City Manager Greg Clifton; City Attorney Sterling Solomon.
12.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Council and audience recited the pledge of allegiance.
The Council and audience recited the pledge of allegiance.
13.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Tyler Linner addressed Council with concerns about the condition of bike lanes with cinders and ice remaining in many throughout Flagstaff.
Lee Haferkamp addressed Council with concerns about the condition of bike lanes in Flagstaff.
Lee Haferkamp addressed Council with concerns about the condition of bike lanes in Flagstaff.
14.
CARRY OVER ITEMS FROM THE 4:30 P.M. AGENDA
None
None
15.
REGULAR AGENDA
A.
Consideration and Adoption of Ordinance No. 2020-01: An ordinance repealing part of Ordinance 2018-30 and amending Flagstaff City Code, Chapter 1-18, Administrative Departments, to reestablish the Information Technology Division, reflect the prior abolishment of the Community Enrichment Division, and rename the Utilities Division to the Water Services Division in City Code.
Moved by Councilmember Jim McCarthy, seconded by Councilmember Charlie Odegaard to read Ordinance No. 2020-01 by title only for the first time.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF, ARIZONA, REPEALING PART OF ORDINANCE 2018-30 AND AMENDING THE FLAGSTAFF CITY CODE, CHAPTER 1-18, ADMINISTRATIVE DEPARTMENTS, TO REESTABLISH THE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIVISION, REFLECT THE PRIOR ABOLISHMENT OF THE COMMUNITY ENRICHMENT DIVISION AND RENAME THE UTILITIES DIVISION TO THE WATER SERVICES DIVISION; PROVIDING REPEAL OF CONFLICTING ORDINANCES, SEVERABILITY, AUTHORITY FOR CLERICAL CORRECTIONS, AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE
B.
Consideration and Adoption of Resolution No. 2020-01: A resolution of the Flagstaff City Council authorizing Amendment No. Two to an Intergovernmental Agreement with the Arizona Department of Transportation for Construction of the Fourth Street /I-40 Bridge Replacement Project.
Capital Improvements Engineer Bret Peterson provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:
FOURTH ST. / I-40 BRIDGE REPLACEMENT FUNDING
VISUALIZATION
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
PROJECT LOCATION
BID RESULTS
PROJECT ESTIMATES
OVERALL CONSTRUCTION FUNDING, BY SOURCE
Councilmember Whelan expressed concern about taking funds from the FUTS to cover the project; she does not want to see the trail projects suffer. Mr. Peterson stated that the FUTS projects can be delivered and the shifting of funds should not impact the timeline. The shifting of funds can hinder the ability to add additional projects to the CIP program but none of the existing projects should be negatively impacted.
Councilmember Salas asked what enhancements were proposed for the project. Mr. Peterson stated that the enhancements include two tube bridge rails, painting of the structure including the bridges and retaining walls, an impact continuation device, three city electrical conduits running within the westerly bridge barrier, additional fencing, a retaining wall including the pinecone barrier texture, rectification, future aesthetics, and contractor quality control.
Councilmember Odegaard offered that it is a good partner project with ADOT and the timing is good.
Vice Mayor Shimoni expressed appreciation for the inclusion of disconnected bike lanes.
FOURTH ST. / I-40 BRIDGE REPLACEMENT FUNDING
VISUALIZATION
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
PROJECT LOCATION
BID RESULTS
PROJECT ESTIMATES
OVERALL CONSTRUCTION FUNDING, BY SOURCE
Councilmember Whelan expressed concern about taking funds from the FUTS to cover the project; she does not want to see the trail projects suffer. Mr. Peterson stated that the FUTS projects can be delivered and the shifting of funds should not impact the timeline. The shifting of funds can hinder the ability to add additional projects to the CIP program but none of the existing projects should be negatively impacted.
Councilmember Salas asked what enhancements were proposed for the project. Mr. Peterson stated that the enhancements include two tube bridge rails, painting of the structure including the bridges and retaining walls, an impact continuation device, three city electrical conduits running within the westerly bridge barrier, additional fencing, a retaining wall including the pinecone barrier texture, rectification, future aesthetics, and contractor quality control.
Councilmember Odegaard offered that it is a good partner project with ADOT and the timing is good.
Vice Mayor Shimoni expressed appreciation for the inclusion of disconnected bike lanes.
Moved by Councilmember Charlie Odegaard, seconded by Councilmember Regina Salas to read Resolution No. 2020-01 by title only.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
A RESOLUTION OF THE FLAGSTAFF CITY COUNCIL, APPROVING AMENDMENT NO. TWO TO AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE STATE OF ARIZONA, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, AND THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE FOURTH STREET AND INTERSTATE 40 BRIDGE REPLACEMENT PROJECT
Moved by Councilmember Jim McCarthy, seconded by Councilmember Austin Aslan to adopt Resolution No. 2020-01.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
C.
Approval of Change Order for the Minimum Wage Impact Study Professional Services Contract
Mr. Clifton stated that Council had a discussion on December 17, 2019 regarding the study and contract and gave direction to proceed and see it through fruition. Council also directed staff to look for possibilities to add a second contractor or co-author to ensure the findings of the study are balanced and objective. Staff was successful in reaching one entity, the Seidman Institute out of Arizona State University, who is willing to join the study and provide input. Staff was able to make amendments to the contract to include the additional entities involvement and work performance, but it will slow the process down and add to the budget by $20,000. Funding sources have been identified internally should Council choose to move forward with the amendment. The three primary purposes of the study are to provide information on existing and future impacts on business, workers, and economic health; provide best practice information to businesses; and provide best practice recommendations to the city to support businesses.
Councilmember Aslan expressed concern that the research design has been decided and the new consultant will not be able to change the design elements that are already in motion. He also expressed concern about recent work by Seidman Institute for APS that resulted in political fallout. Lastly, he is not comfortable taking funds from the Office of Labor Standards to fund the amendments.
Councilmember McCarthy stated that the Living Wage Coalition had a suggestion of approaching the Grand Canyon Institute which is a suggestion that he supports. He encouraged Council to consider using the Grand Canyon Institute as the second consultant.
Mr. Clifton noted that all consulting firms provide information and studies, each could be deeply evaluated, and past work dissected which will always raise red flags because consultants do not always choose their clients, they are in the business of providing a service. It is noteworthy that Rounds Consulting has a working relationship with the Morrison Institute as well as with the Seidman Institute. The reason staff sought out the Seidman Institute was because they were recommended by the Morrison Institute.
The following individuals addressed Council in opposition to amending the contract:
Mayor Evans noted that the work product has not yet been seen, conclusions and assumptions are being made even before there is something to evaluate. This is the first of many studies and there needs to be a place to start from to identify what works, what has not worked, and best practices for businesses to move forward. She stated that she wants the study to continue.
Councilmember Salas expressed concern that by allowing a change order to bring in an additional firm sets a bad precedent. She urged Council to not spend any more money on the study and wait and see what the findings are.
Councilmember Aslan agreed that no additional money should be spent. His ultimate concern is with the study design and he is not convinced that the findings will be worth discussion. He stated that if another firm is brought in they need to be academic in nature, not economic. He indicated that he believes that the entire study should be scrapped.
Vice Mayor Shimoni agreed stating that given the affiliations associated with the consultants he believes that the process should just start over. He asked if Council is able to cancel the contract. Mr. Solomon stated that any work that has been done by the consultant would have to be paid for and the contract allows for cancellation with a 30 day out.
Councilmember Aslan expressed concern that the research design has been decided and the new consultant will not be able to change the design elements that are already in motion. He also expressed concern about recent work by Seidman Institute for APS that resulted in political fallout. Lastly, he is not comfortable taking funds from the Office of Labor Standards to fund the amendments.
Councilmember McCarthy stated that the Living Wage Coalition had a suggestion of approaching the Grand Canyon Institute which is a suggestion that he supports. He encouraged Council to consider using the Grand Canyon Institute as the second consultant.
Mr. Clifton noted that all consulting firms provide information and studies, each could be deeply evaluated, and past work dissected which will always raise red flags because consultants do not always choose their clients, they are in the business of providing a service. It is noteworthy that Rounds Consulting has a working relationship with the Morrison Institute as well as with the Seidman Institute. The reason staff sought out the Seidman Institute was because they were recommended by the Morrison Institute.
The following individuals addressed Council in opposition to amending the contract:
- Marilyn Weissman
- Paul Deasy
- The Seidman Institute is no better than the affiliation with the Goldwater Institute.
- It is unacceptable to use money from the Office of Labor Standards to fund the study.
- The City should reach out to the Grand Canyon Institute as they have already studied the minimum wage.
- The Living Wage Coalition can assist and make sure that these studies are free to the taxpayers.
- Do not double down on a bad idea.
- The study was biased from the beginning of the RFP.
- The data you are seeking is not available and it is literally impossible to gather it within six weeks.
- Good studies take time.
- The contract is focused on business interest, there are already trainings and best practices identified.
Mayor Evans noted that the work product has not yet been seen, conclusions and assumptions are being made even before there is something to evaluate. This is the first of many studies and there needs to be a place to start from to identify what works, what has not worked, and best practices for businesses to move forward. She stated that she wants the study to continue.
Councilmember Salas expressed concern that by allowing a change order to bring in an additional firm sets a bad precedent. She urged Council to not spend any more money on the study and wait and see what the findings are.
Councilmember Aslan agreed that no additional money should be spent. His ultimate concern is with the study design and he is not convinced that the findings will be worth discussion. He stated that if another firm is brought in they need to be academic in nature, not economic. He indicated that he believes that the entire study should be scrapped.
Vice Mayor Shimoni agreed stating that given the affiliations associated with the consultants he believes that the process should just start over. He asked if Council is able to cancel the contract. Mr. Solomon stated that any work that has been done by the consultant would have to be paid for and the contract allows for cancellation with a 30 day out.
Moved by Councilmember Charlie Odegaard, seconded by Councilmember Regina Salas to reject the change order and leave the original professional services contract as is.
Vote: 4 - 3
- NAY:
-
Councilmember Austin Aslan
Councilmember Jim McCarthy
Vice Mayor Adam Shimoni
A break was held from 7:47 p.m. through 7:56 p.m.
16.
DISCUSSION ITEMS
A.
Public Safety Development Fee Re-Adoption Update & Process
Community Development Director Dan Folke introduced Ben Griffin from TischlerBise who provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:
DRAFT LAND USE ASSUMPTIONS AND INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENT PLAN
OVERVIEW
ARIZONA LEGISLATION
OVERVIEW OF ADOPTION PROCESS
WHY DEVELOPMENT FEES?
ELIGIBLE COSTS
FEE METHODOLOGIES
BUY-IN APPROACH (PAST)
INCREMENTAL EXPANSION APPROACH (PRESENT)
PLAN BASED APPROACH (FUTURE)
FEE METHODOLOGIES CONSIDERATIONS
EVALUATE NEED FOR CREDITS
DEMAND FACTORS – RESIDENTIAL
DEMAND FACTORS – NONRESIDENTIAL
LAND USE ASSUMPTIONS
FIRE
FACILITIES
APPARATUS
COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT
PROPOSED FIRE FEES
POLICE
FACILITIES
VEHICLES
COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT
PROPOSED POLICE FEES
FEE COMPARISON
ADOPTION TIMELINE
Councilmember McCarthy offered that one of the city’s priorities is affordable housing and he believes that it is appropriate to charge a different amount based on the different sizes of homes. He supports moving forward with the process for police and fire impact fees.
Mayor Evans stated that she is interested in a conversation about impact fees and the exaction process and how the two are different in terms of development.
Councilmember Whelan asked about the possibility of implementing a tier structure for a gradual increase over time. Mr. Griffin explained that it is possible to do a tiered approach but anything below the maximum would have to be funded from the general fund.
Vice Mayor Shimoni asked if there is a way to account for the density or mass of an apartment complex. Mr. Griffin stated that it is based on the number of occupants at a site. Many communities consider the size of unit rather than bedrooms but that approach does not work as well for Flagstaff because of the uniqueness of the market.
Council expressed support for moving forward with the process and holding a public hearing.
DRAFT LAND USE ASSUMPTIONS AND INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENT PLAN
OVERVIEW
ARIZONA LEGISLATION
OVERVIEW OF ADOPTION PROCESS
WHY DEVELOPMENT FEES?
ELIGIBLE COSTS
FEE METHODOLOGIES
BUY-IN APPROACH (PAST)
INCREMENTAL EXPANSION APPROACH (PRESENT)
PLAN BASED APPROACH (FUTURE)
FEE METHODOLOGIES CONSIDERATIONS
EVALUATE NEED FOR CREDITS
DEMAND FACTORS – RESIDENTIAL
DEMAND FACTORS – NONRESIDENTIAL
LAND USE ASSUMPTIONS
FIRE
FACILITIES
APPARATUS
COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT
PROPOSED FIRE FEES
POLICE
FACILITIES
VEHICLES
COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT
PROPOSED POLICE FEES
FEE COMPARISON
ADOPTION TIMELINE
Councilmember McCarthy offered that one of the city’s priorities is affordable housing and he believes that it is appropriate to charge a different amount based on the different sizes of homes. He supports moving forward with the process for police and fire impact fees.
Mayor Evans stated that she is interested in a conversation about impact fees and the exaction process and how the two are different in terms of development.
Councilmember Whelan asked about the possibility of implementing a tier structure for a gradual increase over time. Mr. Griffin explained that it is possible to do a tiered approach but anything below the maximum would have to be funded from the general fund.
Vice Mayor Shimoni asked if there is a way to account for the density or mass of an apartment complex. Mr. Griffin stated that it is based on the number of occupants at a site. Many communities consider the size of unit rather than bedrooms but that approach does not work as well for Flagstaff because of the uniqueness of the market.
Council expressed support for moving forward with the process and holding a public hearing.
B.
Development Fees
This item was taken out of order following the Future Agenda Item Request agenda items.
Ms. Antol provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:
DEVELOPMENT FEES
BACKGROUND
TYPES OF PUBLIC SERVICES
HISTORY
BREAKDOWN OF PROPOSED FEES IN 2005
ADVANTAGES
DISADVANTAGES
CURRENT METHOD – EXACTIONS (EXCLUDING PUBLIC SAFETY)
COUNCIL DIRECTION
Mayor Evans stated that she would like to have a community conversation about the current process compared to the other processes available. It appears that if a developer is building a lot of units at one time, they would be interested in paying impact fees whereas a smaller development would rather use the exaction process. She asked if there could be two process that could be chosen from. Mr. Solomon explained that all developments must be treated the same and therefore only one option is permitted.
Ms. Antol stated that the conversation today is to see if there is Council interest in looking further into development fees. The community conversation with the general public will look very different then the conversation with developers. Staff is happy to have the discussions and then come back to Council for further direction if that is desired.
Council discussed the need to have a community conversation about the cost of development both for the community and the developer and how that can directly impact the community, who is paying for what, what is being paid for and how.
Rick Lopez addressed Council in support of a community conversation. A developer will come in and put in all the infrastructure and that cost is passed along to the homeowner along with ongoing property taxes.
Council gave direction for staff to develop a process for a community discussion.
Ms. Antol provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:
DEVELOPMENT FEES
BACKGROUND
TYPES OF PUBLIC SERVICES
HISTORY
BREAKDOWN OF PROPOSED FEES IN 2005
ADVANTAGES
DISADVANTAGES
CURRENT METHOD – EXACTIONS (EXCLUDING PUBLIC SAFETY)
COUNCIL DIRECTION
Mayor Evans stated that she would like to have a community conversation about the current process compared to the other processes available. It appears that if a developer is building a lot of units at one time, they would be interested in paying impact fees whereas a smaller development would rather use the exaction process. She asked if there could be two process that could be chosen from. Mr. Solomon explained that all developments must be treated the same and therefore only one option is permitted.
Ms. Antol stated that the conversation today is to see if there is Council interest in looking further into development fees. The community conversation with the general public will look very different then the conversation with developers. Staff is happy to have the discussions and then come back to Council for further direction if that is desired.
Council discussed the need to have a community conversation about the cost of development both for the community and the developer and how that can directly impact the community, who is paying for what, what is being paid for and how.
Rick Lopez addressed Council in support of a community conversation. A developer will come in and put in all the infrastructure and that cost is passed along to the homeowner along with ongoing property taxes.
Council gave direction for staff to develop a process for a community discussion.
17.
COUNCIL LIAISON REPORTS
None
None
18.
FUTURE AGENDA ITEM REQUESTS
After discussion and upon agreement by three members of the Council, an item will be moved to a regularly-scheduled Council meeting.
After discussion and upon agreement by three members of the Council, an item will be moved to a regularly-scheduled Council meeting.
These items were taken out of order following agenda item 16A.
A.
Future Agenda Item Request (F.A.I.R.) A Citizens' Petition requesting Council to seriously consider the effect of noise pollution on the quality of life in Flagstaff. They ask that Council address the unnecessary noise created when drivers intentionally modify a vehicle for the sole purpose of increasing their noise footprint.
Michael Collier addressed Council stating that people live in Flagstaff because it is small and peaceful and the intentional noise created by drivers of some vehicles disrupts that peaceful setting. He encouraged the Council to consider a noise ordinance that would prohibit intentional noise from vehicles. The ordinance can be enforced by police officers measuring decibel levels with a tiered fine schedule and education.
There were at least three members of Council in support of moving this forward.
There were at least three members of Council in support of moving this forward.
B.
Future Agenda Item Request (F.A.I.R.) A Citizens' Petition requesting that Navajo Road between Hopi Drive and Fort Valley Road have a sidewalk on the south side of the street with a standard 90 degree curb, while the north side of the street see replacement of roll curb in the exact location it is, with no sidewalk at all on the north side of the street. Further, the sidewalk on the south side will shift north to the greatest extent possible to preserve existing landscape and driveway parking to maintain the city-proposed road narrowing and on-street parking on both sides of the street.
Tom Martin addressed Council requesting that only one side of Navajo Road have sidewalks installed. He expressed concern about the lack of clarity in the questionnaire that was sent out to homeowners asking about sidewalk installation. He expressed concern about homeowners loosing portions of their lawn and off street parking options with the installation of a sidewalk.
David Sanders addressed Council in support of the petition noting that sidewalks have a minimal impact on safety.
Rick Lopez addressed Council in support of the petition noting that sidewalks are not being installed in other areas of Flagstaff. The installation of sidewalks impacts parking and places a burden on many elderly homeowners to shovel their sidewalks.
Mayor Evans asked what if it is the city’s engineering standards that are driving the need for sidewalks. Mr. Folke explained that there are street standards for sidewalks and there are conditions all over Flagstaff that do not meet those standards. The Road Repair and Street Safety funding is to be used to repair existing infrastructure which includes bringing things to the appropriate standards. The schools in this area also impact the decision to install sidewalks as children are walking to school through the neighborhoods.
Vice Mayor Shimoni stated that sidewalks are needed on residential streets and with this being so close to schools, he believes it makes sense to have sidewalks installed as part of the project.
Councilmember Whelan asked if there was a community process for the project. City Engineer Rick Barrett stated that there were two public meetings held at Marshall School. The first was at a 30% design level with a survey and then another meeting was held at the 60% design stage. Generally speaking, the open houses were well attended. Citizens have been expressing concern about why their streets are not in accordance with engineering standards.
Mayor Evans noted that there are design and engineering standards for a reason and picking and choosing street by street which standards to adhere to is not appropriate. The city has evolved over time which is why there are neighborhoods without sidewalks and as those streets are updated and repaired it is necessary to bring them up to the current standards. She is not supportive of moving the matter forward for further discussion.
Councilmember Aslan stated that he supports all residential streets having sidewalks. It is not the Council’s job to micromanage the design of each street, the system must operate with consistency.
There was not the necessary support to move the item forward to a future agenda.
David Sanders addressed Council in support of the petition noting that sidewalks have a minimal impact on safety.
Rick Lopez addressed Council in support of the petition noting that sidewalks are not being installed in other areas of Flagstaff. The installation of sidewalks impacts parking and places a burden on many elderly homeowners to shovel their sidewalks.
Mayor Evans asked what if it is the city’s engineering standards that are driving the need for sidewalks. Mr. Folke explained that there are street standards for sidewalks and there are conditions all over Flagstaff that do not meet those standards. The Road Repair and Street Safety funding is to be used to repair existing infrastructure which includes bringing things to the appropriate standards. The schools in this area also impact the decision to install sidewalks as children are walking to school through the neighborhoods.
Vice Mayor Shimoni stated that sidewalks are needed on residential streets and with this being so close to schools, he believes it makes sense to have sidewalks installed as part of the project.
Councilmember Whelan asked if there was a community process for the project. City Engineer Rick Barrett stated that there were two public meetings held at Marshall School. The first was at a 30% design level with a survey and then another meeting was held at the 60% design stage. Generally speaking, the open houses were well attended. Citizens have been expressing concern about why their streets are not in accordance with engineering standards.
Mayor Evans noted that there are design and engineering standards for a reason and picking and choosing street by street which standards to adhere to is not appropriate. The city has evolved over time which is why there are neighborhoods without sidewalks and as those streets are updated and repaired it is necessary to bring them up to the current standards. She is not supportive of moving the matter forward for further discussion.
Councilmember Aslan stated that he supports all residential streets having sidewalks. It is not the Council’s job to micromanage the design of each street, the system must operate with consistency.
There was not the necessary support to move the item forward to a future agenda.
Moved by Councilmember Charlie Odegaard, seconded by Mayor Coral Evans to continue the agenda in accordance with the City Council Rules of Procedure.
Vote: 6 - 1
- NAY:
-
Councilmember Jim McCarthy
19.
CITY MANAGER REPORT
A.
City Manager Report
Mr. Clifton briefly reviewed his report.
B.
Discussion and Direction: Council Visit to BNSF Headquarters in Fort Worth, Texas
Mr. Clifton stated that an invitation has been extended for a delegation from Flagstaff to visit the BNSF headquarters. It is an excellent offer to help further relationship building with BNSF especially in light of the partnership needed with regard to the Rio de Flag project. The dates have not been formulated just yet but it would be helpful for Council to identify three members to attend.
Councilmember McCarthy expressed his interest in attending.
Councilmember Aslan also expressed an interest in attending.
Mayor Evans also stated that she would like to attend.
Council agreed with the three who expressed interest.
Councilmember McCarthy expressed his interest in attending.
Councilmember Aslan also expressed an interest in attending.
Mayor Evans also stated that she would like to attend.
Council agreed with the three who expressed interest.
20.
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS FROM COUNCIL AND STAFF, FUTURE AGENDA ITEM REQUESTS
Councilmember Odegaard requested that the comments during public participation about bike lanes be forwarded to Public Works to address.
Councilmember McCarthy reported that the Housing Commission met yesterday and discussed the exploration of a potential 2020 ballot measure. A chairperson and vice-chairperson were appointed as well.
Councilmember Whelan stated that she would like to have the Council consider adding a transportation representative to the Housing Commission. She also reported that she will be traveling to Florida next month to tour a shelter facility that also operates as a diversion program out of the criminal justice system.
Vice Mayor Shimoni reported that he is looking forward to the work ahead in 2020. He has been discussing with Economic Vitality Director Heidi Hansen about how to grow support for the Flagstaff Local campaign and he suggested a friendly competition between the members of Council.
Councilmember McCarthy reported that the Housing Commission met yesterday and discussed the exploration of a potential 2020 ballot measure. A chairperson and vice-chairperson were appointed as well.
Councilmember Whelan stated that she would like to have the Council consider adding a transportation representative to the Housing Commission. She also reported that she will be traveling to Florida next month to tour a shelter facility that also operates as a diversion program out of the criminal justice system.
Vice Mayor Shimoni reported that he is looking forward to the work ahead in 2020. He has been discussing with Economic Vitality Director Heidi Hansen about how to grow support for the Flagstaff Local campaign and he suggested a friendly competition between the members of Council.
21.
ADJOURNMENT
The Regular Meeting of the Flagstaff City Council held January 7, 2020, adjourned at 10:47 p.m.
The Regular Meeting of the Flagstaff City Council held January 7, 2020, adjourned at 10:47 p.m.
| _______________________________ MAYOR |
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| ATTEST: |
|
_________________________________ CITY CLERK |
CERTIFICATION
I, STACY SALTZBURG, do hereby certify that I am the City Clerk of the City of Flagstaff, County of Coconino, State of Arizona, and that the above Minutes are a true and correct summary of the Meeting of the Council of the City of Flagstaff held on January 7, 2020. I further certify that the Meeting was duly called and held and that a quorum was present.
| DATED this 7th day of September, 2021. | |
________________________________ CITY CLERK |