HomeMy WebLinkAbout2012-02-21 City Council Regular MinutesCITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
The regular meeting of the City Council of the City of
Apache Junction, Arizona, was held on February 21, 2012, at the
Apache Junction City Council Chambers pursuant to the notice
required by law.
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Insalaco called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m.
INVOCATION
Councilmember Wilson gave the Invocation.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Councilmember Serdy led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present:Mayor Insalaco
Vice Mayor Dietz
Councilmember Barker
Councilmember Serdy
Councilmember Smithson
Councilmember Wilson
Staff Present:
(There is one vacancy on the council.)
City Manager George Hoffman
Assistant City Manager Bryant Powell
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
City Attorney Joel Stern
Public Safety Director Jerald Monahan
Parks and Recreation Director Jeff Bell
Development Services Director Brad
Steinke
Others Present:Senior Planner Rudy Esquivias
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FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 1 OF 50
Senior Project Engineer Emile Schmid
Parks Superintendent Nick Blake
Revenue Resources Manager Roger Hacker
Business Advocate Janine Solley
Community Resource Unit Coordinator
Constance Halonen
ACCEPTANCE OF CONSENT AGENDA
)Vice Mayor Dietz MOVED
THAT THE CONSENT AGENDA BE ACCEPTED AS PRESENTED.
Councilmember Barker SECONDED
THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
ANNOUNCEMENT OF CURRENT EVENTS
Councilmember Barker reminded everyone of the Lost Dutchman's
Day Parade, Lost Dutchman Days Weekend and the Get Ready for
Teddy event schedule.
Councilmember Serdy commented what is cool is that it was all
done through donations.No city money was used.
Mayor Insalaco announced a week ago from Saturday night he
attended the arena downtown to hear the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.
AWARDS, PRESENTATIONS AND PROCLAMATIONS
Revenue Resources Manager Roger Hacker and Friends of Apache
Junction Secretary Laura Dean -Lytle invited the council to the
Bad Cactus Brass Band concert to be held on March 10 to benefit
the parks and recreation department.The Jazz Laboratory from
the high school will also be performing at the concert.A short
video from a television program was shown with the Bad Cactus
Brass Band performing.
Mayor Insalaco commented that this past weekend the weather was
beautiful for the Lost Dutchman Marathon.He started all the
races except for the full marathon.Former Councilmember
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FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 2 OF 50
Coleman and Pinal County Supervisor Bryan Martyn participated in
the marathon.
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
None.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
APPLICATION FOR AN INTERIM PERMIT,
NEW LICENSE, LIMITED LIABILITY CO.,
SERIES 12 LIQUOR LICENSE FOR
SUNDANCE RESTAURANT )
)City Clerk Kathleen
Connelly briefed the council on the item.
Mayor Insalaco requested the
applicant address the council.
Ms. Beverly Keller addressed
the council.
Mayor Insalaco asked if this
is a new license she is applying for.
Ms. Beverly Keller stated it
is.
Mayor Insalaco opened the
public hearing on the item.There being no one wishing to
speak, he closed the public hearing and reopened the item to
council discussion.There being no further discussion, he
called for a motion.
Councilmember Barker MOVED
THAT THE APPLICATION FOR AN INTERIM PERMIT, NEW LICENSE, LIMITED
LIABILITY CO., SERIES 12 LIQUOR LICENSE FOR SUNDANCE RESTAURANT,
SUBMITTED BY BEVERLY JEAN KELLER, BE RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL TO
THE ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF LIQUOR LICENSES AND CONTROL.
Vice Mayor Dietz SECONDED THE
MOTION.
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FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 3 OF 50
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
ORDINANCE NO. 1379, CASE PZ-1-11,
PLANNED DEVELOPMENT MAJOR AMENDMENT
BY PATHFINDER TRF THREE LLC AND
ADAMS CONSTRUCTION COMPANY,
REPRESENTED BY BEUS GILBERT PLLC,
AMENDING THE DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR
"THE VILLAS AT SUPERSTITION
MOUNTAIN PHASE 2"/RESOLUTION NO.
12-03, CASE SD -1-11, PROPOSING A
NEW PRELIMINARY PLAT TO AMEND AND
RESUBDIVIDE "THE VILLAS AT
SUPERSTITION MOUNTAINS PHASE 2"
UNDER THE NEW NAME OF "APACHE
JUNCTION TOWNHOMES"/RESOLUTION NO.
12-04, PRESENTING FOR APPROVAL THE
FINAL SUBDIVISION PLAT FOR "APACHE
JUNCTION TOWNHOMES" BY ADAMS
CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, BUILDER AND
PROPERTY MANAGER )
)Senior Planner Rudy
Esquivias briefed the council on the item.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked if all
the documentation still missing will stop them from voting on
the issue tonight.
Senior Planner Rudy Esquivias
stated it does not.The applicants want to have their
administrative approvals done tonight and we can do that
tonight.Until these last few items trickle in they cannot
record the plat.He continued with his briefing.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked if the
street lights on Idaho and Plaza will be done through a street
lighting district and if the cost will be divided up between all
the units and paid off.
Senior Planner Rudy Esquivias
requested Emile Schmid answer those questions.
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FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 4 OF 50
Senior Project Engineer Emile
Schmid asked about Phase 3.
Senior Planner Rudy Esquivias
stated they have not done the development plan yet for Phase 3.
Senior Project Engineer Emile
Schmid asked if they purchased that property.
Senior Planner Rudy Esquivias
stated he was not sure if they did.They can answer that when
they speak.It was part of the previous ownership group.He is
not sure if these people absorbed that section.He has not seen
a change of plan for that particular site so he does not have an
answer to that question.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked who
would be responsible if the neighboring property values do drop.
City Attorney Joel Stern
stated Proposition 207, which is now part of a statute, actually
exempts out payments to adjoining property owners.It is not
the effect to the adjoining property owners.It is the effect,
if they pass a law or regulation, of how that law or regulation
affects this particular development and not adjoining property
owners.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked about
the property valuation coming into play with the other property
owners.
City Attorney Joel Stern
commented they would probably say because affordable housing is
being put in next to them their property value has come down.
That is not part of the statute.It is how the regulation or
act or action taken by the city council would affect this
particular development and if their property value would go
down.
Councilmember Smithson
commented page two indicates the internal streets will be
constructed much like public streets but they will not be as
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FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 5 OF 50
wide.He is not sure what much like means.He asked if the
amount of subbase and base would be the same.
Senior Planner Rudy Esquivias
stated that is correct.The construction of the street itself,
insofar as the cross section, is according to our street
standards, the width of the internal streets do not meet our
public street standards.
Senior Project Engineer Emile
Schmid stated he could now answer the question on the street
light district.In the past the city has set up street light
districts in order to recoup the cost of running or maintaining
the street lights.We are one of the few municipalities left in
the state doing that.Over the last 5 to 10 years it has been
hit and miss with the street light districts.Some have them,
some do not.There is a question as to the process of setting
up a street light district that they have been working out
internally with city staff.The question was if this project
would require a street light district to be set up.He does not
have the answer right now.They would have to consider the cost
of three street lights on Plaza Drive and if they would be able
to offset the cost of setting up a street light district,
including the legal documents and processes in setting that up
and how long it would take to recoup the costs.It might not be
worth it for three street lights.If it were 30 street lights,
it might be a different story.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked if
there were street lights on Idaho.
Senior Project Engineer Emile
Schmid stated he could not recall off the top of his head.They
might have been installed with the original project 7-9 years
ago, but he is not aware of a street light district set up for
those.He does not know if they could include these three new
ones in that district.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
the city would be absorbing the cost for the electricity for
these street lights.
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FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 6 OF 50
Senior Project Engineer Emile
Schmid stated that is an option they are looking at.They are
weighing out the pros and cons of that option.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
they are voting on this tonight.It is probably something that
they should have had.They should have had information on it or
knew what was going on with it.
Mayor Insalaco requested the
applicant address the council.
Mr. Paul Gilbert, 4800 N.
Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, addressed the council.He is here
on behalf of the applicant.He advised that Mr. Adams, chairman
of Adams Construction, was in attendance.He has a lot of
experience and is the former head of the Utah Housing Authority.
He has a lot of experience with the type of unit we are
presenting this evening.This company has a broad base of
experience in both Arizona and Utah.Staff has done a good job
of outlining the request so he will not go into that.He feels
it is important to focus on the zoning that is already there,
which is CR-5/PD.They are not changing that; it is the same
zoning.The only thing they are doing tonight is reducing the
density.It would not set well for his career to lose a case
where he comes in and actually reduces the density.They are
asking for 88 patio homes; the property is already zoned for 197
units.They are not stopping there.They are also reducing the
height.Currently two story units are proposed on this
property.They are reducing it to one story.They are
providing 3 and 4 bedrooms, 2 baths and 2 car attached garage
units.He wanted them to focus on that.They will be talking
about quality this evening.This is a nice indication of that.
They are actually providing 2 car garages for every single unit.
He submits they will find very few units, let alone low income
housing units, that provide 2 car garages for every unit.Even
though these units are duplex, the only place where they have a
common wall is the garage itself.They can again see the kind
of quality they are talking about.They are also providing a
lot of amenities on site.They will have a pool area and
clubhouse, playground, picnic tables, basketball court and staff
has requested that a tot lot be provided and they have done
that.To illustrate the extent of how they have tried to
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FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 7 OF 50
cooperate with Apache Junction, he does not know of a single
request that city staff has made that has not been honored.
Every change they have been asked to make they have made.They
agree with all of the stipulations, including the new
stipulations that were added as a result of their very
informative and helpful work study session.Their goal, as it
is in all of their projects, is to provide an attractive,
affordably -priced and healthy living environment.This project
will do that.The interesting thing about this project, which
is very novel, and underscores their confidence in the quality
of the project and insures that this is going to be a quality
project, is that they are going to allow their future tenants an
opportunity to purchase this home.After 15 years, any one of
their tenants can purchase this home.That in and of itself is
no big shake, but what is the big shake is that they will get a
credit towards the purchase price for every single dollar they
have spent in rent.If they want to buy their unit at the end
of 15 years, they get a credit towards the purchase price of
every single dollar they have spent in rent.That is quite a
commitment and what an opportunity for the citizens of Apache
Junction.This project is roughly a $15,000,000 project.If
tax credits are awarded, which they have not been as of yet, as
one of the conditions of the process is that they have to meet
with the council and have this fully entitled as they go into
the process.If they receive the tax credits, then 70% to 80%
of the project will be covered by the tax credits and they will
have a permanent loan to cover the remaining percentage.Every
year Adams places money into a capital replacement account to
cover long term maintenance and repair and capital replacement.
The important thing is that this is not a built it and spin it
project.This company builds, owns and manages their units.
They are not in the business of turning it over to someone else
once it is entitled.They build them, they manage them, and
they continue to own them unless the tenants, after 15 years,
exercise the option they will have to purchase the unit.They
have the approval of the planning commission.The vote was 6-1.
He asked the one person who voted against them post -hearing why
she voted against them as she seemed to be so positive during
the course of the hearing.Her concern was that they did not
have separate yards designated for the units.That seemed to be
a concern of the council at the study session.They changed
that.They have complied with her concern and reciprocally the
council concern as well.He is confident in saying that in
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 8 OF 50
effect they have unanimous approval of the planning commission
as they corrected the one concern she had.They are not only
here in the posture of a recommendation of approval from the
planning commission, but from staff as well.Usually you have
to envision what the project looks like.They have built the
very same project in Arizona.They invited Rudy and another
member of city staff to go up and visit the project in northern
Arizona.It is built.This is a very close replication of that
project.Rudy went up and investigated the project and he
thinks they liked what they saw.At the planning commission
hearing Rudy indicated they were quite impressed with the
project.They had a neighborhood meeting with the project to
the north and several of the people informed them that they went
up and looked at the project and liked what they saw.They
stood up at the homeowner's meeting and stated they liked what
they saw.When city staff was at the similar project they
knocked on doors, asked residents if they enjoyed living there
and if the developer does what he says he will do and they
received a very positive response.They are in agreement with
all of the staff stipulations.They met with the police chief
immediately after the hearing and agreed to do what he asked
them to do.It is incorporated into the new stipulations.They
have added the rear yards and the individual lots will be
enclosed with a six foot cinder block wall.He received a
letter from the city attorney asking what they could do in the
CC&Rs to incorporate some of the provisions of the lease.They
gave him a letter on all of the provisions of the lease that
they could incorporate into the CC&Rs.They could not do all of
them, but the main points of the lease are committed to the
CC&Rs.He believes they have done everything they have been
asked to do under the guidelines they have been given.They are
careful about who they let come into the units.There is a
perception that whoever develops low income housing has to take
whoever comes and knocks on the door.They believe that is what
the government requires.That is not true.This is not Section
8 housing.They are not mandated, even after accepting tax
credits, to accept anyone that comes in.They have a full
background check done, which includes previous bankruptcy and
criminal history, and anything in the background that makes them
uncomfortable keeps them from renting any property to those
individuals.They have a resident screening company that is
expert on this and screens very carefully.They have an onsite
manager who lives onsite.They also have an assistant manager
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 9 OF 50
and video surveillance throughout the property.They have full
time maintenance and landscape personnel to maintain the
quality.This company has built and manages over 900 units.
They have a good track record of doing what they say.One of
the concerns that came up at the planning and zoning commission
hearing and at the council work session was crime.They went to
several police chiefs in communities where they have projects
and copies of their letters indicating crime is not a problem
have been provided.They even responded that they like the
maintenance of the units.He then showed them pictures of some
of their units in Hurricane Hills and Cedar City, Utah, and
Katherine Heights in Arizona.He promised that if they approve
this project and the company receives the tax credits, the
council will be very proud of this project.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked if that is a
maintenance shed in Tract B, as one drawing shows one there and
another does not.
Mr. Paul Gilbert stated they
are putting a maintenance shed there.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked if the
drainage section in Tract C will have riprap in it or will it
just be desert.
Mr. Paul Gilbert stated it
will have riprap.
Mr. Dennis Newcomb, 4800 N.
Scottsdale, Scottsdale, commented the one map was the
preliminary plat and this is the final plat.This shows a
future maintenance building that might have to be put in to
store things on site.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked if the
maintenance building will be made to look like the other units.
Mr. Paul Gilbert stated that
is correct.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented it
will be very attractive and not be a metal building.
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FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 10 OF 50
Councilmember Serdy commented
he attended the meeting at Quail Creek.He asked if they were
able to make contact with residents of Husky Hollow and
Chaparral.
Mr. Paul Gilbert stated they
attempted to but they never made contact.
Councilmember Serdy commented
they had the same concerns, mostly about children overstepping
and causing problems in the neighborhood.
Mr. Paul Gilbert commented
that is correct.There will probably be fewer children in this
development than the current approved plan.The current
approved plan as double the density.Secondly, they are
providing more amenities than the current approved plan.There
is no reason for children to leave our facility and go into some
of these other facilities.We have better amenities than they
do or at least equal to what they are proposing.Plus the city
library and city facilities are across the street.They do not
foresee them as a problem.
Councilmember Serdy commented
he thought they were projecting that the maximum amount of
children in it would have been quite large but there will be a
lot of single families living here as well.
is correct.
is all ages, too.
is correct.
Mr. Paul Gilbert stated that
Mayor Insalaco commented this
Mr. Paul Gilbert stated that
Councilmember Barker
commented it appears that this entire project is predicated upon
getting that tax credit.She asked if that is correct.
Mr. Paul Gilbert stated that
is correct.
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FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 11 OF 50
Councilmember Barker asked if
this project is out the window if the council passed this whole
thing and they did not get the tax credit.
Mr. Paul Gilbert stated that
might be a little strong.They could still consider doing the
project, but without the tax credits, as it is now designed and
envisioned, it is not likely to come to fruition.They really
need the tax credits in order for it to work.
Councilmember Barker asked
what the likelihood is of their getting the tax credits.
Mr. Paul Gilbert stated they
are very experienced working in this field.The chairman, Mr.
Adams, has a broad range of experience both in Arizona and Utah.
They know what needs to be done and the type of project that
will qualify.They would not have spent the considerable amount
of time and money, including all the engineering expenses of
doing a final plat, if they did not have a very high level of
confidence that the tax credits would be awarded.They feel
pretty good about it, but they cannot represent to them that it
is 100% sure because that is another administrative body that
has to review it and make its decision.The council can help
them to achieve that goal by passing this tonight.They will
then write the city a letter inviting the city to make comments
on the project.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked if all
of the properties they have done in Arizona and Utah been done
with federal tax credits.
is correct.
they are all low income.
is correct.
that is all they have built.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 12 OF 50
Mr. Paul Gilbert stated that
Vice Mayor Dietz asked if
Mr. Paul Gilbert stated that
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
Mr. Paul Gilbert stated that
is correct.It is a lot of units to have built all with tax
credit funds.
Councilmember Smithson stated
he is quite impressed with the concept of selling the units to
the renters after 15 years for what they have paid in.He could
not see it in the agreement and asked them to show him where it
is.He could not see that labeled or specified.
Mr. Paul Gilbert stated that
will be put in as a provision in the CC&Rs.He does not think
there has been anything submitted to the city that has it except
for putting it on the record here and committing to do that.
That is their purpose and they have said it at every meeting and
they intend to do that.
Councilmember Smithson asked
if there is a stipulation that covers that.
Mr. Paul Gilbert stated there
is not.
Councilmember Smithson stated
if they have made a presentation that is a major provision,
which he thinks is fantastic, then he would like to see a
stipulation added that it will be included and it will be
required.
Mr. Paul Gilbert stated they
are not afraid of that because that is what they intend to do.
Councilmember Smithson stated
that will help.
Mr. Paul Gilbert stated they
think it is a great idea.It will help increase the quality of
people that will come.They want to do it and they are looking
forward to it.
Mayor Insalaco commented they
talked about the restrictions there would be for people moving
in there.When he went through it, he could probably buy a
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 13 OF 50
cruise line or 747 and get away a lot easier.That is what
impresses him; they are sticking to their word on how well these
will be kept.He then opened the public hearing on the items.
Ms. Donna Marquardt, 1770 N.
Valley Drive #59, Apache Junction, asked what would be the
process if this is approved by the council and the low income
housing gets built.The council is aware that they have an
issue with the development that they are in.She asked how
people would get information on this development and how they
could apply to be a resident.
Mayor Insalaco commented when
this portion is through they will ask them.
Mr. Elliott Fisher, 547 E.
Quail, Apache Junction, stated it is a great project many years
too late.He added if council would have approved this back in
1993 when he was advocating for it and more diversity in Apache
Junction, maybe there would not be houses all over Apache
Junction sitting empty and foreclosed.He is concerned about
the timing with the stock of foreclosed housing in the 10 -year-
old developments.He also hoped they would be doing it on the
sewer system for environmental.He believed no lighting would
be an issue.The Gila River Indian Reservation is using solar
street lighting that requires no lighting, just pedestals.It
may not be as good as powered street lights but it might be an
option.They need to memorialize the selling of the properties
in the contract.He is also worried about who will be setting
the price when the property comes up for sale.It could be an
issue.The seller could raise the price to whatever they want.
It could become cost prohibitive for the people who have been
paying rent all these years.
Mayor Insalaco closed the
public hearing with no one else wishing to speak.He asked the
city attorney if he could ask a question of the applicant.
City Attorney Joel Stern
stated he could reopen it for the applicant to come forward and
answer questions.
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FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 14 OF 50
Mayor Insalaco asked how
people will know about this.
Mr. Paul Gilbert stated they
advertise and market the property just as any other developer
would do.They have a waiting list for every one of their
projects.They have never had trouble filling them.It is the
least of their worries.If they can get underway, they will be
very comfortable.A copy of their study has been given to them
so that they know they are very earnest about this project.He
wanted to readdress Councilmember Smithson's question.His
clients have agreed to put a stipulation in our tax credit
application committing them to selling the units after the
fifteenth year.That is a commitment.They will not qualify
for the tax credits if they do not get it.That is pretty
airtight.
Councilmember Smithson
suggested they include a stipulation requiring that in the
ordinance.The city will be requiring it and it will also be
required in their documents.
Mr. Paul Gilbert stated that
is fine.They are in agreement with that.Another concern was
the timing of the project.Not everything can go as it should
as there may be some hang ups here and there.He does not
believe there will be any hang ups in Apache Junction from what
he has seen.The staff has been great to work with and they
have moved things along.Having the preliminary plat and the
final plat on the same agenda is a real tribute to how well the
staff has worked with them.Assuming things go on schedule and
they get through the tax credit approval process in a timely
manner, their goal is to start construction in September or
October of this year and they hope to be complete by May of next
year.They are excited to move forward.There was a good
question on how the price will be determined on these units
after 15 years.Their credit for their rent could be illusory
if we simply raise the price of the home by the same price they
paid for the rent.As explained at the planning commission
hearing, after 15 years they will contract an independent,
bonafide appraisal as to the price of the house.That will set
the price of what they sell it for.It is not something they
can manipulate and try to get back what they have promised by
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 15 OF 50
giving full credit for the rent.Regarding the lighting, if
they want them to do a street light district, they are happy to
do that.Whatever the city wants them to do, they will do.
They will abide by what the city tells them to do.They are
familiar with street light districts; other communities are
pushing for more and more of that in his practice.They will
have surveillance cameras throughout the project.The interior
streets will be safe and completely lit.
City Attorney Joel Stern
stated he probably should reopen it for the public.
Mayor Insalaco opened the
public hearing on the items.There being no one wishing to
speak, he closed the public hearing and reopened the items to
council discussion.
Councilmember Smithson stated
he is very impressed with the project, especially with them
reducing the density.He has been in city government for 40
years and he cannot remember anyone coming in and reducing their
density before.He pointed out the city council probably would
have approved this a long time ago, as someone suggested we
should have, if it had been submitted to us.They have to wait
until someone submits an application before they can approve it.
Mayor Insalaco closed the
discussion with no further comments and called for a motion.
Councilmember Barker MOVED
THAT ORDINANCE NO. 1379 BE READ BY TITLE ONLY AND THE READING OF
THE ENTIRE ORDINANCE BE WAIVED.
Vice Mayor Dietz SECONDED THE
MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
read the ordinance by title only.
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FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 16 OF 50
Councilmember Barker MOVED
THAT ORDINANCE NO. 1379, AS READ BY THE CITY CLERK, BE APPROVED
AND ADOPTED WITH THE FOLLOWING AMENDMENTS:THAT, INCLUDED IN
THE CONDITIONS WITHIN THE ORDINANCE WOULD BE NUMBER NINE, THE
MANAGERS, OWNERS, OPERATORS AND/OR HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION OF
APACHE JUNCTION TOWNHOMES SHALL COORDINATE WITH THE CITY'S
POLICE DEPARTMENT AND CONTINUALLY PARTICIPATE IN LOCAL, CRIME-
FREE, MULTI -FAMILY HOUSING PROGRAMS, NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH PROGRAMS
OR SIMILAR PROGRAMS, TEN, THE PRIVATE REAR YARDS OF THE
INDIVIDUAL HOME LOTS SHALL BE ENCLOSED WITH SIX FOOT CINDER
BLOCK WALL, ELEVEN, THE LEASE AGREEMENTS WITH THE RENTERS OF
APACHE JUNCTION TOWNHOMES SHALL INCORPORATE THE SAME TYPE OF
LANGUAGE AS THE LEASE AGREEMENTS FOR THE KATHERINE HEIGHTS
DEVELOPMENT SUBMITTED WITH CASE PZ-3-11 INSOFAR AS STRICT RULES
FOR MAINTAINING A QUALITY DEVELOPMENT AND A SAFE, CLEAN CRIME-
FREE NEIGHBORHOOD, TWELVE, THE SALES AGREEMENTS AND CONDITIONS,
COVENANTS AND RESTRICTIONS FOR EVENTUAL PURCHASERS OF APACHE
JUNCTION TOWNHOMES HOMES AND LOTS SHALL INCORPORATE THE SAME
TYPE OF LANGUAGE AS THE LEASE AGREEMENTS FOR APACHE JUNCTION
TOWNHOMES AS ALLOWED BY LAW INSOFAR AS STRICT RULES FOR
MAINTAINING A QUALITY DEVELOPMENT AND A SAFE, CLEAN CRIME -FREE
NEIGHBORHOOD, AND THIRTEEN, THAT THE RENTERS WHO CHOOSE TO BUY
THEIR UNITS AT THE END OF THE 15 YEAR PERIOD WILL RECEIVE CREDIT
FOR THE RENT THEY HAVE PAID AND THE STIPULATION TO SUCH BE ADDED
TO THE RENTAL AGREEMENT.
Councilmember Smithson
SECONDED THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
Vice Mayor Dietz MOVED THAT
RESOLUTION NO. 12-03, A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF APACHE JUNCTION, ARIZONA, AMENDING THE FINAL
SUBDIVISION PLAT FOR "THE VILLAS AT SUPERSTITION MOUNTAIN PHASE
2", BY APPROVING A NEW PRELIMINARY SUBDIVISION PLAT, PROPOSING
TO RENAME AND RE -PLAT THE FORMER SUBDIVISION UNDER THE NEW NAME
"APACHE JUNCTION TOWNHOMES", IN CASE SD -1-11, AS REQUESTED BY
PATHFINDER TRF THREE LLC AND ADAMS CONSTRUCTION COMPANY,
REPRESENTED BY BEUS GILBERT PLLC, BE APPROVED.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 17 OF 50
Councilmember Barker SECONDED
THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
Councilmember Barker MOVED
THAT RESOLUTION NO. 12-04, A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF APACHE JUNCTION, ARIZONA, APPROVING A
FINAL SUBDIVISION PLAT FOR "APACHE JUNCTION TOWNHOMES", IN CASE
SD -1-11, BY PATHFINDER TRF THREE LLC AND ADAMS CONSTRUCTION
COMPANY, REPRESENTED BY BEUS GILBERT PLLC, BE APPROVED.
Councilmember Smithson
SECONDED THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
Mr. Paul Gilbert asked for a
point of order.
Mayor Insalaco granted the
point of order.
Mr. Paul Gilbert stated the
city will be receiving a letter from the State of Arizona Low
Income Housing Credit Program.He will leave a copy of this
with the city manager.The letter needs to be filled out and
returned prior to March 1, 2012.It is cutting it very close,
but they would appreciate it if they would fill it out and make
sure it gets turned in.
Mayor Insalaco stated they
would do so.
OLD BUSINESS
QUARTERLY UPDATE ON DOWNTOWN
REDEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION
STRATEGY
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 18 OF 50
)
)Assistant City Manager
Bryant Powell gave a brief presentation on the Downtown
Redevelopment and Implementation Strategy.He included pictures
of before and after redevelopment projects.
Parks Superintendent Nick
Blake gave a briefing on the new Trail of Flags for the national
flag, state flag, and armed forces flags project at the
intersection of Apache Trail and Phelps Drive.It will be
across from the focal point.Photographs and development plans
of the ongoing project were provided.During the discussion the
mayor stated that he had turned in a check for $2,500 from VFW
Post 9399 and he has a commitment from the American Legion for
$2,500 and Dave Waldron is working with VFW Post 7968 for
another $2,500 that should also cover most expenses.
Mayor Insalaco commented he
has also talked to some of the auxiliary organizations of the
clubs to keep the city supplied with flags.There will be
basically no cost to the City.The flags will fly all year long
except from June through August because of the monsoons.They
will be put up for Flag Day and Fourth of July.
Parks Superintendent Nick
Blake stated one good monsoon will destroy the flags.
Councilmember Serdy asked if
he had drawn up the design.
Parks Superintendent Nick
Blake stated he did.
Councilmember Serdy commented
it is good they did not go out of house.He likes it when they
do it all in house.
Assistant City Manager Bryant
Powell stated they will be back in two weeks for direction to
staff.
Mayor Insalaco closed the
item.This was a discussion item only with no action at this
time.He called for a brief break.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 19 OF 50
Mayor Insalaco reconvened the
meeting.
MEDIAN ENHANCEMENT PUBLIC ART
PROJECT ON OLD WEST HIGHWAY
AND OVERVIEW OF ALTERNATIVES FOR
PUBLIC ART IN THE DOWNTOWN
)Business Advocate Janine
Solley briefed the council on the item.
Councilmember Serdy commented
he would like to see the Focal Point and Tourism Committee do
what they did with the Trail of Flags.They raised that $8,000
very quickly.He thinks that group can get together and get the
first piece purchased.He would like to not use the $10,000 if
they do not have to.There are lots of opportunities to go out
for solicitation, just like the centennial group did.They do
not have to get all three at once.They can just do them one at
a time.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked if
they want to stay with this first one or look at some other
options.The first one was running about $10,000 per piece.
Councilmember Serdy commented
it appeared everyone liked the designs.He asked if they could
cut costs anywhere.The artist himself came up with the
material.They could look at material changes.If the money
can be raised they can do it with the quality proposed.
Mayor Insalaco commented the
material he proposed shows a light through it.It is almost
like a neon sign.He does not know what other material would
act that way.
There was general discussion
and the consensus was to go for the original option.
Councilmember Barker asked if
this will be a city project and, if so, what process do they go
through to raise money.She asked what they need to do if it is
a city project and they did not go out for this procurement
correctly.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 20 OF 50
City Attorney Joel Stern
stated it is up to them to determine if this is a city project.
They have options.They can say it is a city project that is
more long term than they wanted.They can create an art
commission.Others cities have done that.That commission
would be subject the open meeting law so staff resources would
have to be used.They can pick and choose who they want the
same way they do the planning and zoning commission members.
They will probably have to amend the city code as there is no
art commission set forth in the city code.If they do all that
and the art commission proposed work to them, they would still
have to procure the artwork if they are going to use city money.
He does not mean donated money.It would be city coffer money
from other sources.They would have to comply with Article 3-7
which means it must be competitively bid.If they do that, then
they can do the artwork.What happened in this case was we did
not do it the exact way we should have under the city code
procurement process.Donations are gotten by asking for them.
They can put it out on the city internet and someone could say
they want to donate $100 for this particular purpose.It would
go into a special fund.It could be with the Friends of Apache
Junction; they could also take the donations.It could be
earmarked specifically for that purpose and could not be used
for anything else.
Business Advocate Janine
Solley stated she researched some of the nearby communities to
find out how they go through the procurement process.They
utilize a process very similar to what we did, but because we
were not sanctioned or appointed by the city council for the
commission that we put together there was a glitch.They have
art and/or culture commissions that they work with.The process
is sanctioned and therefore when they go out to bid, they do a
call to the artists.They do not bid it out.That is how they
procure their art.There are instances where they do direct
purchases or artist selections, specific artist selection for
services, a direct selection of the artist, direct purchase of
existing artwork and instances like that where they enter into
an artist contract.Typically if it is a concept or creation
they will do the whole process of a call to the artists.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 21 OF 50
Councilmember Barker
commented she thought she should bring up some points that have
to be ironed out before any decision can be made.
Business Advocate Janine
Solley stated if we use our current bid process that we go
through we will still have to answer the question of when we go
out to bid who looks at those projects that are proposed when
they come back.Typically in other communities the council does
not see the public projects.There was one community where if
it was $50,000 or more the contract would have to go before the
council for approval.Typically it stays at the level of the
commission for a smaller community.They may choose to do that
differently.They may want to see the art.It is up to them
how they want to do that.
Councilmember Smithson stated
he did not say anything when it came up before because a lot of
work had gone into it.He had been more towards an iron thing
as being more compatible with what we have outside here and at
the focal point.He is obviously in a great minority but he
thought he would express that.
Business Advocate Janine
Solley stated that is a great point.They had that on the sheet
as one of the options.Originally when they thought about the
median it was to use iron.The mixed design he did some time
ago.When the Downtown Redevelopment and Implementation
Strategy came out and it said to engage the community and
involve them in the process, that is when the city reached out
to the Superstition Area Cultural Alliance and said they should
not narrow the concept to just iron.There might be other great
alternatives out there.
Mayor Insalaco commented they
might be able to get all three pedestals done for the price of
one.
Business Advocate Janine
Solley stated that would be a policy decision.
Councilmember Serdy commented
if they are all donated like the focal point and the Lost
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 22 OF 50
Dutchman, if they fall into our lap, we do not have to do any of
this.
Councilmember Smithson stated
they would have to accept it.
Councilmember Serdy commented
they did not have to form that group to get the burro and the
Dutchman outside.
City Attorney Joel Stern
stated that was a generous donation from the Superstition Mall
owner through a communication to the city manager's office.
Councilmember Serdy asked if
there is some way to look at just having these things donated.
City Attorney Joel Stern
stated they could.
Councilmember Serdy asked if
they could to it without having to involve all the staff, having
them attend all these meetings and posting things.
City Attorney Joel Stern
stated there is still a staff effort to get the donations, but
the answer is yes.
he knew where these things are.
they have not been built yet.
needed anything else.
Councilmember Barker asked if
Councilmember Serdy commented
Mayor Insalaco asked if she
Business Advocate Janine
Solley stated she will be back in a couple of weeks for
direction.
City Manager George Hoffman
stated tonight's objective was to get them thinking about it.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 23 OF 50
They will be back in a couple of weeks for them to tell staff
what they want to do.
Mayor Insalaco closed the
item.This was a discussion item only with no action at this
time and he moved on to the next item.
NEW BUSINESS
None.
COUNCIL DIRECTION TO STAFF
ACCEPTANCE OF RESIGNATION OF FORMER
COUNCIL MEMBER DOUGLAS COLEMAN,
DISCUSSION ON LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
AND MANNER OF FILLING COUNCIL
VACANCY CREATED BY THE
RESIGNATION AND DIRECTION TO STAFF
ON PROCEDURES FOR FILLING THE
COUNCIL VACANCY
)City Clerk Kathleen
Connelly briefed the council on the item.
much time she
together.He
have for when
come into the
packet and it
need.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked how
would need to put the council vacancy packet
would like to see a packet put together like they
someone runs for a council position.One has to
city clerk's office, sign out for and receive a
will have all the information that someone will
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated if they give direction today, they would be sending that
out to run in the local newspapers to appear next week.It
would be run the week of February 27.We would take the
applications from February 27 through March 5.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked when
they would begin accepting application packets.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated they would not be available before next Monday.Next
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 24 OF 50
Monday would be the earliest date and if they want to give a 10
day window they would go into the next week.
Councilmember Barker
commented she would rather give them a longer window then that.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated that is their choice.
Councilmember Barker stated
she would like the public to have the opportunity to see the
press release, think about it and then come in and pick up a
packet if they are interested.If we are going to require the
talent bank application as well as the disclosure statement, the
notarized affidavit plus written answers to questions, which she
thinks should be there, it will take longer than a couple of
days.People have other things to do, too.She would much
prefer to see a 3 week or even a 30 day window.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented he
was just asking for a date on how much time Kathy needs to put a
packet together.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated she was assuming they wanted it as quickly as possible
because if they were to give direction tonight it would be very
tight for my department to have everything ready by next Monday.
Councilmember Barker
commented they could go the following Monday.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
commented if they went to the following week that would be good.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
that would be March 5.It would be received back by April 2;
that would be a month.He asked if that is enough time.
Councilmember Barker stated
that works for her.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked the
city clerk if that was alright.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 25 OF 50
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated April 2 would be fine.The earliest they would be doing
interviews would be April 16.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
they would do it March 5 through April 2.He asked if that was
good with the council.That is a full month that they would
have the packet.They should be able to get everything
notarized and answer the questions.
Mayor Insalaco commented the
interviews would be on a Monday night.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated that would be their choice.It is what they have done in
the past.They would have the work session of April 16.Not
knowing how many applicants they might have, they might not be
able to do all the interviews the one night.
Mayor Insalaco commented they
might have to do some the following night.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated we have no way of knowing how many people might be
interested.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked if
they wanted to do the appointing two weeks later.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
commented April 16 would be the interviews.If they do not want
to appoint the next night they would be going until May 1.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked if
they wanted to do the appointment May 1.
Councilmember Barker
commented that would work.
Councilmember Serdy commented
the term would expire one year and one month after that.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 26 OF 50
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
she would want to swear in the new person.
Mayor Insalaco stated that
would be done at the first meeting in May.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated they would only be appointing the person that night.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked if
they wanted to swear him in as fast as possible.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated if they want it done that way they could.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked if she
was talking about swearing him in privately.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
commented that would be if the sequence of events was different.
If they did an appointment on May 1, they could also list on the
agenda that the person be sworn in that same meeting.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
that is a good idea.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated they could put it on like a dual agenda item.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked if
that sounded okay to everybody.
Mayor Insalaco commented this
way, whoever it is, has a couple of weeks to go through the
orientation for the second meeting in May.They are getting
close to budget time.He would like the person to know
something of what is going on.He thinks a whole month for the
packet is too long.He could see 2 or 3 weeks.This is getting
them right down to budget time and they will be trying to bring
on a new person.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 27 OF 50
Councilmember Serdy commented
he thinks they could do all the applications in one night.He
does not see why they would have to go two nights.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated if it appears that they have 20 applicants it would be up
to the city manager to shorten that work session agenda so that
all they do is interviews.
Councilmember Serdy commented
they used to stay to midnight on cargo containers.
Councilmember Barker asked
how they would get them to Kathy if they want different
questions or additional questions.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated the questions that she gave them, and some of them are
very old questions, had already been pre -cleared by the city
attorney.If they have other questions they want to bring up,
she suggested they run those first by the city attorney.He
will then need to get them to her so that she can include them
in the packet.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
these are not something you would need tonight.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated she does not need them tonight, but she will need them
within the next couple of days so that she can start getting the
packet together.
Councilmember Barker asked if
they are saying they want all these questions in the packet or
can they talk about these questions and decide which ones they
want or if they want any of them.Some of them are irrelevant.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented he
had 3 he would like to add.
Councilmember Barker stated
she would like to get rid of some.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 28 OF 50
Vice Mayor Dietz stated some
of them need to be gone.
Councilmember Serdy commented
they could limit their answers.They do not have to write
everything.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated some of the questions were requested to be answered in
writing.The shorter list she gave them were answered verbally.
There was general discussion
as to which ones were verbal questions.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated they can go through each one of them and they can answer
yes or no.
Councilmember Barker stated
some of them were written specifically for specific instances.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated they are not as broad as they could have been.
Councilmember Barker agreed
and added they are not open-ended at all.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked about
the first questions which asked the applicant to give examples
of situations when one believes it is important to maintain
confidentiality as a councilmember.He asked if they should
keep it or have it go.
Mayor Insalaco commented he
liked it.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented he
liked it to, so that is staying.The second one asked from a
business point of view, what characteristics make for an
efficiently run city government.
Councilmember Barker stated
she does not even understand that question.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 29 OF 50
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated she still has the binder from 2008 and she took a look at
it today.That question caused a lot of confusion.
Councilmember Barker stated
she would like to scratch that.This is not a business.It is
called a city.
Vice Mayor Dietz stated the
next one asked how you get cooperation from someone with whom
you work.
Mayor Insalaco commented they
could take this question and the next one and almost put them
together.
Vice Mayor Dietz read the
next question that asked to please share an example of a
situation where your negotiation style worked to bring about a
win -win situation.
Councilmember Smithson stated
he would take that one over the previous one.
There was general discussion
with the consensus being to remove the one dealing with how one
usually gets cooperation.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
they have gotten rid of the second and third one.He stated the
next question asked the applicant to show an example of a
situation where your negotiation style worked to bring about a
win -win situation.
Mayor Insalaco stated he
liked that one.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
they will keep that one.The next one asked what processes the
applicant used to problem solve.
Councilmember Smithson stated
that one would be very hard to answer.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 30 OF 50
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated that one also caused a lot of confusion.They could not
figure it out.
Councilmember Barker asked if
they wanted an essay or what.She could do that in 5 paragraphs
or so.
Councilmember Smithson stated
they could also have answered that question in the previous one
if they did a good job of it.
Councilmember Barker agreed.
Councilmember Smithson stated
it they do not, they do not appoint them.
Vice Mayor Dietz stated the
next question asked if selected to fill the vacancy on the
council, how would the applicant expect to impact the residents
of our city.He believed that one should stand.
Councilmember Serdy commented
that would give them a chance to elaborate on what they think
they have to offer.
Councilmember Smithson stated
they could just ask them what they have to offer.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
the next question asked when is it most difficult for the
applicant to be attentive to or give consideration to another
individual's point of view.
Councilmember Barker stated
when you disagree with them.She asked what they do about it.
She thinks the question needs to be reworded.They can all name
when it is most difficult but it is how they handle it.
Councilmember Smithson agreed
that is the question.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 31 OF 50
Councilmember Barker
commented the question is what do you do.
they should rewrite it.
commented Joel is rewriting it.
get rid of this one as it is.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked if
Councilmember Barker
Vice Mayor Dietz stated they
City Attorney Joel Stern
confirmed that they wanted it to ask how they would handle that
situation.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
the next question asked in the applicant's mind, what
distinguishes a superior employee from an employee who gives a
typical good performance.
There was general discussion
and the consensus was to get rid of that question.
Councilmember Serdy commented
the city manager is over the employees.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
the next question asks what skills the applicant possesses that
make them uniquely qualified to fill this vacancy.
he liked that one and to keep it.
Councilmember Smithson stated
Mayor Insalaco agreed.
Vice Mayor Dietz stated the
last one asks the applicant to give examples of instances where
the applicant believes they may use these skills as a
councilmember.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 32 OF 50
Councilmember Barker asked
what skills they are talking about, and then realized it meant
the skills mentioned in the previous question.
Councilmember Serdy commented
they can blend that into one question.
Councilmember Barker stated
they could make it A and B.
Councilmember Serdy stated it
could give them the opportunity to be longwinded and he does not
want to see that.
Mayor Insalaco commented they
could be essays as Councilmember Barker stated earlier.
City Attorney Joel Stern
stated they could have the questions and then limit the space to
3 or 4 lines in between to limit how much they can write.They
can do that.That way they do not have to go on for 20 pages.
Councilmember Barker
commented what happens if they write very large.
City Attorney Joel Stern
stated they can have a disclaimer stating no more space will be
allowed than what is provided.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
they could limit it to 25 words.
Councilmember Barker stated
they cannot answer those questions in 25 words, even as precise
as some of them are.She has a few she wants to pass by the
city manager.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented he
has a few he is going to give to the city attorney.
Councilmember Barker stated
they are probably the same questions she has.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 33 OF 50
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
they are pretty close.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated if they go a page or two further there are the additional
questions.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
they do not want to let those out.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated they are already in a public packet.
Councilmember Barker
commented they are two words or less, basically yes, no or maybe
some more.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
these are questions they may want to ask or may not want to ask.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
asked if they want them to be responded to in writing.
Vice Mayor Dietz and
Councilmember Barker both stated no.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated that is what she needed.
Councilmember Barker stated
her next question is that they cannot add any other questions to
these at this time.If they pass them through Joel, then the
rest of the council will not have seen those questions.We just
eliminated a bunch of questions.She asked what if they had a
question that they gave to Joel and he stated it is legal to ask
but no one else on the council heard the question and they did
not like it.
There was general discussion
on what they should do.
City Attorney Joel Stern
commented they could state them right now.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 34 OF 50
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated they have 5 written questions.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
what he wants to ask is what is a recent action that the city
council made that you agree with and why.
Councilmember Barker
commented she would make it the current city council.
City Attorney Joel Stern
stated that is legal.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
the other one is what is a recent action the current city
council made that you did not agree with and why.
Councilmember Barker added
and what would the applicant have done differently.
City Attorney Joel Stern
stated that is legal.
Councilmember Barker stated
those are the two she had.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented he
had a third one that asked if chosen, what action would the
applicant like to put on an upcoming agenda and why.
City Attorney Joel Stern
stated they are legally and technically not council members yet
but this is open to the public.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented it
does say if chosen.
City Attorney Joel Stern
stated it is legal.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented he
does not know what everyone else thinks.He was just thinking
about it.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 35 OF 50
Councilmember Barker stated
she believed they almost asked that question with one of the
earlier ones with how they would expect to impact the residents
of our city.
Councilmember Serdy stated it
is basically the same thing.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented it
could be a question that a council member might just ask.It
might not be on the sheet.
Councilmember Smithson stated
they could solve all of this and not accept his resignation.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked if
there were any other questions the others would like to add.
Councilmember Serdy commented
there will not really be a live interview.
Vice Mayor Dietz stated there
will be.
Councilmember Barker asked if
they can ask questions during the live interview from their
answers to these questions.
City Attorney Joel Stern
asked if she meant him or them.
Councilmember Barker stated
any of us.
City Attorney Joel Stern
stated they could.
Councilmember Serdy commented
that all the questions have to be run through Joel.
any of us.
stated they could.
Councilmember Smithson stated
he will tell us if it is not a good question.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 36 OF 50
Vice Mayor Dietz commented he
just wants to make sure it is all legal.
Councilmember Barker
commented this is where someone answers one of these questions,
we read the answer and wonder what they meant by that.She
asked if they can ask them what they meant by that.
City Attorney Joel Stern
stated absolutely.That is fair game.
There was general discussion
on their being able to ask questions of the answers.
Councilmember Serdy commented
he always asks a question about HOAs because half of the city is
for them and half are against.He could not ask that question
of third candidate if he did not ask it of the previous
candidates.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated if he wants to ask that question of everyone she would
suggest they make it a written question and make it part of the
packet.
Vice Mayor Dietz stated he
had no problem with it being on there.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
asked for the question.
Councilmember Barker stated
she did not see the point of asking that question.
Councilmember Serdy commented
it helps determine peoples' thought processes for property
rights and what you can do with your own property.
Councilmember Barker stated
that is kind of political.
There was general discussion
on whether they wanted to add that question.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 37 OF 50
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
asked if he would prefer to have that question asked at the
interview and not have it in written form.
Councilmember Serdy stated
that is correct.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated it will have to be asked of all the applicants.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked if
there were any other questions.
Mayor Insalaco commented he
thought they had enough.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated they have eight written questions.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
they took five out and added two.
Mayor Insalaco stated they
added three.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated there is one on what recent action of the current city
council did you agree with and why, what recent action of the
current city council did you not agree with and why and what
would you have done differently and the last one states what
action would you place on a future agenda and why.
Councilmember Barker
commented she believed the last one could be woven into the one
that reads if selected to fill the vacancy on the council how do
you expect to impact the residents.
Mayor Insalaco commented they
could ask it in a different way.
Councilmember Barker stated
it is pretty much the same question.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 38 OF 50
Councilmember Serdy commented
they might not have an agenda yet.That means they are looking
for someone who has an agenda.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
this is just something they would like to put on that is on
their minds.
Councilmember Barker
commented anyone who runs for council generally has something on
their minds.
Councilmember Serdy commented
they might not have anything they want to submit.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated they might want to submit something that is not legal.
Mayor Insalaco commented some
might not know.
There was general discussion
on whether they wanted that question.The consensus was they
did not want the question.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated they have 7 questions.
Councilmember Barker stated
she thought that was a prime number.
Mayor Insalaco closed the
discussion with no further comments and called for a motion.
Vice Mayor Dietz MOVED THAT
WE ACCEPT THE RESIGNATION OF DOUGLAS COLEMAN FROM HIS POSITION
AS A CITY COUNCIL MEMBER EFFECTIVE JANUARY 31, 2012.
I FURTHER MOVE THAT THE FOLLOWING DIRECTION BE GIVEN TO STAFF
REGARDING THE PROCESS FOR FILLING THE VACANCY:1) THAT A PRESS
RELEASE ASKING FOR QUALIFIED APPLICANTS BE SENT TO THE AJ
INDEPENDENT AND THE AJ NEWS FOR PUBLICATION THE WEEK OF FEBRUARY
27, 2012, AND THAT THE PRESS RELEASE ALSO BE POSTED AT THE
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 39 OF 50
CITY'S THREE OFFICIAL POSTING LOCATIONS AND PLACED ON THE CITY
WEBSITE AND CABLE CHANNEL; 2) THAT ALL APPLICANTS BE REQUIRED TO
COMPLETE A TALENT BANK APPLICATION, A LOCAL ELECTED OFFICIALS
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE STATEMENT, AN AFFIDAVIT OF QUALIFICATION, A
WRITTEN RESPONSE TO QUESTIONS AS INCLUDED IN THIS PACKET AND AS
DISCUSSED THIS EVENING; 3) THAT APPLICATION PACKETS ONLY BE
ACCEPTED BEGINNING MARCH 5, 2012 AND ENDING APRIL 2, 2012 AT
5:00 P.M.; 4) THAT PUBLIC INTERVIEWS OF THE QUALIFIED APPLICANTS
BE HELD ON APRIL 16, 2012; 5)THAT THE APPOINTMENT BE MADE ON MAY
1, 2012 AT THE REGULAR MEETING; 6) THAT THE SUCCESSFUL COUNCIL
APPOINTEE BE PUBLICLY SWORN IN AT THE MAY 1, 2012 COUNCIL
MEETING ALSO.
Councilmember Barker SECONDED
THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
ACCESSORY BUILDING DESIGN
REGULATIONS
)Development Services
Director Brad Steinke briefed the council on the item.
Councilmember Smithson stated
Exhibit D states it affects horse shades, mare motels, hay
storage buildings and carports with no walls or partial walls
extending no more than 6 feet from the roof line.He is not
sure how to interpret it.He sees no comma after buildings or
carports.He asked if partial shade only applies to carports or
to everything preceding it.
Development Services Director
Brad Steinke stated it would apply to the horse structures that
are parenthetically included and to carports.
Councilmember Smithson stated
it seems to him there should be a comma after carports.
Development Services Director
Brad Steinke stated he would agree.
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FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 40 OF 50
Councilmember Smithson asked
if a person could have a Quonset hut that was strictly used for
horses.
Development Services Director
Brad Steinke stated they could not.
Councilmember Smithson stated
it states here that horse stuff is excluded.
Development Services Director
Brad Steinke stated Quonset huts are expressly prohibited
regardless of the use.He believes he is saying they should put
that in the ordinance to be clear.
Councilmember Smithson asked
if metal buildings that would be very high, higher than the
house, but still used for horses, would be excluded.
Development Services Director
Brad Steinke stated they would not.The only exemption for
horse structures and carports has to do with the design; not
with the height or the size.If that was confusing, then they
need to clarify that.
Councilmember Serdy commented
what he sees is the problem with most of these is the color.
When Gold Canyon Resort was stark white and you drove along US
60, people would look over there and wonder what it was.Now
that it is blended in with earth tones and it is not even seen.
He was at Apache Lake Marina a couple of weeks ago.There is
one silver building.You have a beautiful lake and you do not
even see a lot of the homes and buildings there, but that silver
and stark white ruins the views.These things should be blended
in.
Development Services Director
Brad Steinke stated our present ordinance does require the use
of earth tones and to have desert colors.
Councilmember Serdy commented
any silver building like this would be illegal.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 41 OF 50
Development Services Director
Brad Steinke stated staff could make the case that it should not
be approved.The city also requires that they put textured
paint on it that is usually beige or an earth tone color.One
could make the argument with the existing regulations that if it
is a silver building it should not be allowed.
Mayor Insalaco asked if the
Quonset huts were made of galvanized steel.
Development Services Director
Brad Steinke stated they are.
Mayor Insalaco asked if he
knows how long paint lasts on galvanized steel.
Development Services Director
Brad Steinke stated one of the arguments under the current
ordinance is that they require them to spray them with textured
paint as one remedy and some folks in the opposition group state
it would probably void the warranty on the galvanized steel
immediately.In a few years it might start chipping and look
worse than the galvanized steel would.They took issue with the
textured paint being an aesthetic remedy.He asked if the
majority of them believe that prohibiting Quonset huts is a
reasonable regulation.
The consensus was it was.
Development Services Director
Brad Steinke stated the neighborhood group would like to see all
metal -sided buildings in the R-143 prohibited.That would
include the Quonset hut and prefabricated, galvanized metal
steel buildings.The majority of the commission did not want to
go this far.
Councilmember Wilson
commented the all metal buildings do not necessarily have to be
galvanized.He passed around a brochure on equine -related
structures from MD Buildings.They are metal, painted and have
a warranty on the paint as well.There is currently one inside
the city at this time and in this district that he knows of.
Unfortunately the individual selling these is at a show in
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 42 OF 50
Scottsdale right now.They are all over the state and are very
good buildings.He does not see why the city would not allow
them.They could decide they need to have a conditional use
permit.They would have a rule that says no metal buildings at
all and someone wants to come in and do it, they are creating an
undue hardship for anyone that would want to put something up
like this.He thinks they are stepping on the property owners'
rights and privileges.
Councilmember Barker
commented they are talking about accessory buildings.From what
she understands, the exterior walls of an accessory building
located in R-143 need to be covered with building materials that
are compatible and consistent with the main dwelling structure.
That is where she is wondering how these MD Buildings will fit.
These are beautiful buildings; there is no doubt about it.
Councilmember Wilson
commented they are barns.
Councilmember Barker stated
they are and there are accessory buildings in here.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented if
they are used for horses they should be excluded.
Councilmember Wilson
commented they have to have a solid wall down and they will have
to meet the requirements.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked if the
R-143 was originally set for conventional construction.
Development Services Director
Brad Steinke stated that is correct.
Councilmember Barker stated
they could not build one of those ugly metal buildings
constructed into a home.She has seen it done.
Development Services Director
Brad Steinke stated in this environment he has seen very little
metal -sided homes.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 43 OF 50
Councilmember Barker
commented it would seem a little hot.
Development Services Director
Brad Steinke stated the strict constructionist view of the
ordinance as the commission has recommended it strengthens the
aesthetic connection between the main home and the accessory
building.Unless the main home has metal siding, staff is not
going to approve a metal -sided building even if it is a
beautiful metal -sided building.
Councilmember Barker
commented because it would not meet the one she just read.
Development Services Director
Brad Steinke stated it would not meet the intent and spirit of
the ordinance.However, there is one slight variation of this.
If someone has a wood -sided home or board and batten or
clapboard horizontal on the bottom, it is steel.You cannot
tell the difference between that and vinyl at a distance of 15
to 20 feet and aesthetic wood.This is where staff is
uncomfortable to prohibit a whole sector of material.It might
be an unnecessary quantum leap.This is something they have to
be mindful of.There is aesthetically pleasing steel.The
question comes back that when they have a wood -sided building
like this and someone wants to reflect it in a metal building,
should staff have the discretion to approve it as long as the
design is similar.
Councilmember Barker
commented if they can answer number 7 which states that it
should be covered with building materials that are compatible
and consistent and if you as the zoning administrator see it as
metal but it was compatible and consistent, then it would seem
to meet the requirements.
Development Services Director
Brad Steinke stated if the council says compatible and
consistent to staff when this ordinance comes back and that it
does not have to be the exact material on the main building and
the accessory building, but it has to be compatible visually,
then that gives them the marching orders to do what we want to
do.Several years ago the council said put textured spray paint
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 44 OF 50
for metal buildings.They went ahead and approved everybody
with textured spray paint.It did not do a bit of good for
anybody, but they followed direction.He asked them to keep
that in mind.The question is should this ordinance prohibit
all metal -sided buildings.
Councilmember Barker stated
she would say no.They are talking about accessory buildings
here, not huge buildings.
Councilmember Wilson asked if
someone would be able to build one of those barns if they wanted
to.It is metal.
Mayor Insalaco stated if it
is compatible with the house.
Councilmember Wilson asked
how they can make it compatible with the house.
Councilmember Barker stated
he showed him that when he showed them the pictures with the
siding.
Development Services Director
Brad Steinke stated if the house is stucco, and most of them
are, and someone comes in and wants to build the lower right
hand building in the photos, they will say no.
Councilmember Wilson asked
what he would say on another one that he showed him the picture
of.It is metal and painted.
Development Services Director
Brad Steinke stated the one on the left is like a board and
batten.If the house is board and batten in wood and they came
back with this, then they would probably say that would be
compatible.The color scheme would have to have some
compatibility.
Councilmember Wilson asked if
you had stucco outside your home.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 45 OF 50
Development Services Director
Brad Steinke stated they would say it is not compatible.If
they felt that staff was wrong, they could go through planning
and zoning for a conditional use permit and try to convince them
of that.They are not the final arbitrator, they are the first
step.
Councilmember Wilson
commented they will not have much of a chance of coming in.
Development Services Director
Brad Steinke stated if it was stucco and they want to do either
of these two, he would probably not approve them.That is what
this ordinance is suggesting.It is the compatibility or
strengthening of the two.That is really the strength of where
this ordinance goes.To make it clear, if they want to see
these types of buildings allowed by right, then they should not
approve this ordinance.Or if they want to exempt all horse
structures of any size from any of these regulations, they could
set those aside by themselves.
Councilmember Barker stated
that is a huge can of worms.
Development Services Director
Brad Steinke agreed that it is a huge can of worms and he does
not recommend it.
Councilmember Smithson asked
how tack rooms fit in here.They are not one of the exemptions
here.
Development Services Director
Brad Steinke stated the ordinance before you has the partial.
If someone has a tack room underneath there as part of their
horse shade, that would be fine.Most people do not want to
have a tack room in an open area.The next question was in
regard to limiting the building height to the main building
height.He commented he saw some nodding the other way but he
does not believe they will get unanimous approval on this thing.
The next question was on equestrian structures.The six foot
commission recommendation allows this sort of thing.At the
last meeting council members raised the issue about three -sided
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 46 OF 50
buildings for equestrian uses.If we do that we would go with
the exemption for three -sided buildings.A 5,000 sq.ft. three-
sided metal building will not look a whole lot better than a
5,000 sq.ft. four-sided metal building.If they want to allow
this sort of thing, 75% of the exterior wall surface is covered
and 25% is open.It would be virtually closed, but not
completely.When people say this is for equestrian use they
believe them.Three months later there could be motorcycles in
there.When you start to make exemptions, that Pandora's box
does start to play a part in all this.The question before them
is six foot or beyond that exempt three -sided equestrian
structures with 75%.
Councilmember Wilson
commented if they are storing hay and you are only coming down 6
feet, you will have a lot of destroyed hay at $20 plus a bale.
They forecast the price of hay going up just like gasoline.It
will be expensive.There will be hay wasted because of damage
from rain.Even though we do not get much rain, it will rain
and the hay will mold.
Councilmember Barker stated
three -sided does not answer that either.
Councilmember Wilson stated
it does because you put the open side against the prevailing
wind.Or you can put a gate up in front.
Councilmember Barker stated
she likes the three -sided and she thinks he makes a good
argument.
Development Services Director
Brad Steinke stated he will come back with three -sided.
Councilmember Smithson
commented he assumed they will have the opportunity to hear what
the neighbors think.
Development Services Director
Brad Steinke stated that should be it.He has the direction he
needs to bring this back.He estimated four weeks before he
would schedule a public hearing on it.They should let him know
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 47 OF 50
about anything they have issues.with between now and then.He
asked Councilmember Wilson if he wanted him to hold onto the
information from MD Buildings and include them in the packet
next time.
Councilmember Wilson stated
he would.
Councilmember Smithson
suggested the public might want to be here on this issue and be
aware of what has been tentatively decided, at least for
consideration, and write letters to us so that we know ahead of
time rather than wait for the public hearing.And they need to
come to the public hearing, too.
Mayor Insalaco closed the
discussion with no further comments and called for a motion.
Councilmember Barker MOVED
THAT THE FOLLOWING DIRECTION BE GIVEN TO STAFF REGARDING
ACCESSORY BUILDING DESIGN REGULATIONS:THAT THEY TAKE THE
CONVERSATION THAT WAS HEARD TONIGHT AND WORK IT INTO A DRAFT
ORDINANCE AND BRING IT BACK.
Vice Mayor Dietz SECONDED THE
MOTION.
VOTE:5-1 (Councilmember Wilson voted in opposition.)
The motion carried.
SELECTION OF MEETING DATES, TIMES, LOCATIONS, AND PURPOSES
Vice Mayor Dietz MOVED THAT
AN EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 5:45 P.M. AND A WORK SESSION AT 7:00
P.M. BE HELD ON MONDAY, MARCH 5, 2012, IN THE CITY COUNCIL
CONFERENCE ROOM AND CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS, RESPECTIVELY; AND
THAT AN EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 5:45 BE HELD ON TUESDAY, MARCH 6,
2012 IN THE CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE ROOM.
Councilmember Barker SECONDED
THE MOTION.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 48 OF 50
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
CALL TO THE PUBLIC:
Ms. Myrna Kuki, 1770 N. Valley Drive #48, Apache Junction,
addressed the council regarding the septic problems in Acacia
Villa Mobile Home Park and her hope for relocation.
Ms. Donna Marquardt, 1770 N. Valley Drive #59, Apache Junction,
addressed the council regarding the septic problems in Acacia
Villa Mobile Home Park.They would like the park to be closed
and for them to be relocated.She provided them with a copy of
a letter she sent to the attorney general.
Mr. Darryl Cross, 1018 N. Acacia, Apache Junction, addressed the
council regarding the proposed ordinance for accessory
buildings.He is against the ordinance as written as it does
not consider horse owner needs.
Mr. Todd House, 5027 E. Hidalgo, Apache Junction, addressed the
council to announce he is a candidate for Pinal County
Supervisor District 5.
Mr. Elliott Fisher, 547 E. Quail, Apache Junction, addressed the
council regarding the proposed Trail of Flags and the ongoing
litigation in the court of appeals.
Mr. Douglas Coleman filled out a request card but declined to
speak.
ADJOURNMENT
)Mayor Insalaco adjourned
the meeting at 9:53 p.m.
Consent Agenda Items are as follows:
1. Acceptance of Agenda.
2. Approval of Minutes of Regular Meeting of February 7, 2012.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
PAGE 49 OF 50
ACCEPTED THIS 6TH DAY OF MARCH, 2012, BY THE MAYOR AND CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF APACHE JUNCTION, ARIZONA.
SIGNED AND ATTESTED TO THIS 6TH DAY OF MARCH, 2012.
7)HN S. INSALACO
L'Mayor
ATTEST:
KATHLEEN CONNELLY
City Clerk
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify that the foregoing minutes are a true and
correct copy of the minutes of the regular meeting of the City
Council of the City of Apache Junction, Arizona, held on the
21st day of February, 2012.I further certify that the meeting
was duly called and held and that a quorum was present.
Dated this 29th day of February, 2012.
KATHLEEN CONNELLY
City Clerk
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FEBRUARY 21, 2012
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