HomeMy WebLinkAbout2012-10-16 City Council Regular MinutesCITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
OCTOBER 16, 2012
The regular meeting of the City Council of the City of
Apache Junction, Arizona, was held on October 16, 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 Evans
Councilmember Serdy
Councilmember Waldron
Councilmember Wilson
Staff Present:City Manager George Hoffman
Assistant City Manager Bryant Powell
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
City Attorney Joel Stern
Public Safety Director Jerald Monahan
Others Present:Revenue Resources Manager Roger Hacker
Community Relations Manager Pat Brenner
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 1 OF 30
ACCEPTANCE OF CONSENT AGENDA
)Vice Mayor Dietz MOVED
THAT THE CONSENT AGENDA BE ACCEPTED AS PRESENTED; AND
THAT APPROVAL BE GIVEN FOR THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT
BETWEEN THE CITY OF APACHE JUNCTION AND PINAL COUNTY FOR
ELECTION AND VOTER REGISTRATION SERVICES FOR THE MARCH 2013 AND
MAY 2013 ELECTIONS; AND THAT AUTHORIZATION BE GIVEN FOR THE
MAYOR TO SIGN THE AGREEMENT.
Councilmember Waldron
SECONDED THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
AWARDS, PRESENTATIONS AND PROCLAMATIONS
None.
ANNOUNCEMENT OF CURRENT EVENTS
Councilmember Waldron announced there will be a town hall at
Mountain View Lutheran Church at 4 p.m. on Saturday with Senator
John Kyl and Congressman Jeff Flake where they will talk about
the debt and the deficit.
Councilmember Serdy announced November 9-11 will be the Festival
of the Superstitions with most of it at the Chamber of Commerce
plus a gymkhana at the rodeo grounds, a band stage and a car
show.
Councilmember Wilson commented AARP had an article in their
latest magazine on the lady who cleaned up the desert recently.
Councilmember Wilson announced the Chamber will have their
Business Preparedness Training by Fire Chief Scott Miller from
Casa Grande at noon on November 2 at the Chamber.It will give
business owners an idea if they have enough insurance.
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OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 2 OF 30
Councilmember Barker reminded everyone of the Domestic Violence
Candlelight Vigil next Wednesday at Veterans' Memorial Park at
6:30 p.m.
Councilmember Barker announced that the third annual Community
Awareness Resources Event for youth and families will be held at
Central Arizona College on Saturday, October 27 from 9 a.m. to
noon.It is sponsored by the Apache Junction Drug Prevention
Coalition, the police department and Central Arizona College.
Councilmember Evans reminded everyone that November 2 is the
grand opening for the Earth Heart Park Community Gardens.There
will be music and food and it runs from noon until dark.
Councilmember Evans commented she does free donations for the
Kit and Kaboodle, free items for residents in the area.She has
been focusing on blankets, sleeping bags and tents.All
donations can be dropped off at Mountain Health and Wellness.
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
City Manager George Hoffman read notes from two developers
regarding the outstanding customer service they received from
development services and commented on Lieutenant Jeff Robinson
graduating from the FBI Academy and the participation of Paws
and Claws Care Center in the National Adopt A Dog Month.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
APPLICATION FOR A SPECIAL EVENT
LIQUOR LICENSE FOR SUPERSTITION
MOUNTAIN ROTARY CLUB #1246 FOR
NOVEMBER 9-11, 2012
)City Clerk Kathleen
Connelly briefed the council on the item.
Mayor Insalaco requested the
applicant address the council.
Mr. Tom Lennon of the rotary
club addressed the council.He was here to get it approved.
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OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 3 OF 30
Councilmember Barker
commented a suggestion was given by Rudy Esquvias that they have
some security personnel on site.She asked if they are
considering that.
Mr. Tom Lennon stated the
mounted rangers will be around.
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.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated the reference to the mounted rangers is under number 15
on the application.
Mayor Insalaco closed the
discussion with no further comments and called for a motion.
Vice Mayor Dietz MOVED THAT
THE APPLICATION FOR A SPECIAL EVENT LIQUOR LICENSE FOR
SUPERSTITION MOUNTAIN ROTARY CLUB #1246 FOR NOVEMBER 9-11, 2012,
SUBMITTED BY LEONARD LERESCH, BE RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL TO THE
ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF LIQUOR LICENSES AND CONTROL.
Councilmember Waldron
SECONDED THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
APPLICATION FOR AN EXTENSION OF
PREMISES FOR JAKES-O-MINE
SALOON ON OCTOBER 26-27, 2012
)City Clerk Kathleen
Connelly briefed the council on the items.
Mayor Insalaco requested the
applicant address the council.
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OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 4 OF 30
Ms. Liz Reynolds addressed
the council.
Mayor Insalaco asked what
part of the property would have the extension.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated in
the planning meeting they decided it would be the inner walkway
from Jakes down to the east and to the north.The initial
parking lot would be open.
Mayor Insalaco commented she
is only asking for that little walkway.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated they
had covered that in the planning meeting so she does not know
where the objections are coming from.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked if
they were going to have any parking in front whatsoever.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated they
are.That is why they are restricting the extension of premises
to the walkway.They have a nice, wide sidewalk area in the
front and then down to the east.That is the area they had
requested for their extension of premises which would leave the
parking lot open instead of closed.
Councilmember Wilson asked
how it would impact the other businesses in the area.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated they
will all be closed in that strip mall.No one will be open
except her.
what time this is going to start.
will start at 9 p.m.
when the pizza shop closes.
Councilmember Wilson asked
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated it
Councilmember Serdy asked
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OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 5 OF 30
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated his
door says 9 p.m. and he is usually gone by 8 p.m. or 8:30 p.m.
Councilmember Waldron asked
what provisions she is making to keep people on the sidewalk.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated they
will have barrier flags that will be put out and they also have
some security scheduled.
Councilmember Waldron asked
who is providing the security.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated it is
between Hell's Angels, who are putting on the party, and her
people as she is the host.
Councilmember Waldron asked
if she would be able to insure that nobody will be drinking off
that sidewalk or anywhere off that premises.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated yes.
Councilmember Waldron asked
if she would be able to guarantee that.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated yes,
that is the point.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked how
many people she is expecting.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated they
are hoping for 300 to 350 during the course of the evening.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
that obviously most of the vehicles will be bikes.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated they
get a mixed bag.She would say mostly bikes at this event.
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OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 6 OF 30
Vice Mayor Dietz asked if
there would be enough parking.He knows she has some parking in
the back.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated the
back is completely open.They also has a few friends that live
down the block that are opening up their entire yard where they
will be putting some personal vehicles and cleaning the area
with 4 -wheel vehicles.They will be getting those off of the
streets.
Councilmember Waldron asked
if she would be using the same security to keep people inside
and not drinking outside if this extension is not approved.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated the
same security will be there.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
this would all be the same for the November 4 event.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated that
is correct.It is their anniversary party and is a Jakes stand
alone event.
Councilmember Evans asked if
the police department was made aware that she would have
security there.She also asked if she told the police
department how many people would be available for security.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated they
were told at the planning meeting.They covered everything
there.
Councilmember Evans commented
she assumed she has read the police report of why they object to
it.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated she
had not.No paperwork had been forwarded to her of that nature.
Mayor Insalaco requested
Public Safety Director Jerald Monahan address the council.
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OCTOBER 16, 2012
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Public Safety Director Jerald
Monahan stated he would be happy to address any of the police
department concerns.
Mayor Insalaco asked what the
police department concerns were.
Public Safety Director Jerald
Monahan stated in Sergeant Clyde Allison's, the traffic unit
supervisor's, initial review the traffic concerns were over the
crowd that size being in the parking lot.They do not believe
they will be able to use sidewalks only.It is quite possible
people will drift all over the parking lot.It is a busy area
there.They are concerned about bikes coming in and out.They
are concerned about pedestrians in the parking lot drinking and
being in traffic that late of hours.The second concern is the
presence of motorcycle clubs such as the Hell's Angels.Even
though they may be trying to have a peaceful event of their own,
they certainly draw attention and their own share of enemies
that, in a crowd setting, may choose that as an opportunity to
take some type of revenge.While that may be a worst case
scenario, the police department has to prepare for that.The
last time Jakes-O-Mine had such an event like this, the Hell's
Angels were patched and were very visible.Should another group
that wishes to do an act of violence take advantage of that,
they would use our streets to do so.He will have staff prepare
for a worst case scenario.
Mayor Insalaco asked the
applicant to address the police department concerns.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated the
anniversary party will be our third anniversary.Jakes has held
many events and done a lot of good community service.She does
not believe they have caused any problems as far as any violence
or retaliation.Every club in this town considers Jakes neutral
ground.It is a place where they go to have a good time.There
has not been a single incident of any type of violence or
retaliation.She believes the police record of Jakes would if
not prove that out would at least support the issue.
Councilmember Barker
commented she is saying that they will be able to control this
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 8 OF 30
crowd on the sidewalks.It is a very small club and she has
seen it very crowded with people drifting out onto the sidewalks
with containers in their hands or a glass.She has a real
concern about being able to control an intoxicated person who
truly does not want to be controlled.She is trying to be as
tactful as she can, but some of these people get real bull-
headed when they have been drinking.She can understand the use
of the sidewalk as an overflow, but not with booze.If the
booze is inside it makes it different in her mind.
Ms. Liz Reynolds asked what
the difference would be between this event and the bike raffles
that they have done where they have used the whole parking lot.
Councilmember Barker
commented there were no vehicles coming through there when they
used it for the raffle.
Ms. Liz Reynolds commented
she could not refute that.However, when they set a boundary,
it is a job because they are professionals.They do handle how,
when and where they serve the customers.She does not want that
to be forgotten.She believes their police record would bear
that out.They have a capacity for 194 inside.They are
basically already there at what they feel will filter in and out
during the evening.
Councilmember Serdy commented
the same amount of people will come whether they have the
extension or not.Having this extension will actually relieve
things and make it more at ease.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated that
is correct.
Councilmember Serdy commented
more so than having them corralled together.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked if
they would have seats out there.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated she
was thinking about putting a few small tables out for people to
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OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 9 OF 30
set their drinks, but she does not believe seats will be
necessary.However, she does not want to say that she will not
and then decide to throw a few seats out there as well.She
will go with the flow and use the space as needed.
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.
Councilmember Serdy commented
he knows there are some concerns but he would like
events.Maybe not like this, but he would like to
Mill Avenue where they do things like this all the
they could encourage more and more events that are
thinks that would be a good thing.They can learn
if it is approved.
to see more
see it like
time.If
positive, he
from this one
Mayor Insalaco closed the
discussion with no further comments and called for a motion.
Councilmember Waldron MOVED
THAT THE APPLICATION FOR A TEMPORARY EXTENSION OF PREMISES FOR
JAKES-O-MINE SALOON FOR OCTOBER 26-27, 2012, SUBMITTED BY MONA
E. REYNOLDS, BE RECOMMENDED FOR DENIAL TO THE ARIZONA DEPARTMENT
OF LIQUOR LICENSES AND CONTROL FOR THE FOLLOWING REASONS:1)
THE POLICE DEPARTMENT'S UNFAVORABLE REVIEW OF THE APPLICATION
FROM SERGEANT CLYDE ALLISON DATED OCTOBER 3, 2012, WHICH
INCLUDES PROXIMITY CONCERNS OF VEHICLES TO ATTENDEES, AS WELL AS
THE SPATIAL ACCOMMODATION CONCERNS FOR THE EXPECTED NUMBER OF
ATTENDEES IN THE SIDEWALK AREA; 2) THE ENFORCEABILITY OF SENIOR
PLANNER RUDY ESQUIVIAS' OCTOBER 2012 SUGGESTIONS TO THE BAR
OWNER, WHICH INCLUDE:A) ROPING OFF AND "DILIGENTLY ENFORCING"
THE EXTENSION OF PREMISES AREA TO MITIGATE TRAFFIC/PEDESTRIAN
"INTERACTION"; AND B) OVERFLOW PARKING ONTO OTHER PARKING LOTS
TO THE WEST; AND 3) THERE IS A LIKELIHOOD THAT WITH 250-300
ATTENDEES, THE RESIDENTIAL STREETS IN THE AREA WILL BE ADVERSELY
AFFECTED FOR TWO DAYS, CAUSING UNREASONABLE INTERFERENCE WITH
THE USE AND ENJOYMENT OF RESIDENTS' PROPERTIES.
Vice Mayor Dietz SECONDED THE
MOTION.
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OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 10 OF 30
VOTE:5-2 (Councilmembers Serdy and Barker voted in
opposition).
During the vote, Councilmember Wilson commented this was a hard
vote.He is very much with the idea of trying to promote and
allow events like this.At the same time, he is concerned about
it as well.He wished there was a neutral vote that he could
do.
The motion carried.
APPLICATION FOR A TEMPORARY
EXTENSION OF PREMISES FOR JAKES-0-
MINE SALOON FOR NOVEMBER 4, 2012 )
)City Clerk Kathleen
Connelly briefed the council on the item.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented it
is identical, just a different date.
Councilmember Evans commented
it is just for one day.
Councilmember Serdy asked
what will be different about this one.
Mayor Insalaco requested the
applicant address the council.
Ms. Liz Reynolds commented
nothing would be different except this is a Jakes sponsored
event.It is their anniversary party and customer appreciation
day.
time this will run for.
will run from noon to 6 p.m.
Mayor Insalaco asked what
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated it
Councilmember Waldron asked
how many people she would be expecting.
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OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 11 OF 30
to 300.
if that was during the whole time.
is correct.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated 200
Councilmember Waldron asked
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated that
Councilmember Evans commented
this is just a one day event, not,a two day event.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated that
is correct.It is a single event that is not all day long.
Councilmember Wilson asked if
there would be any impact to the businesses in the area.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated they
have all given her their parking spaces.Every one of the
businesses has signed their parking spaces over to her.Most of
them will not be open.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated during one of the earlier meetings they were asked to
reserve some parking spaces for the pizza place so that they
would be able to have some business that day.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated that
is correct.She did not know if they got copies of the
paperwork showing all the businesses had signed over their
parking spaces.
Councilmember Waldron asked
how many spaces she would be reserving for the pizza place.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated she
is reserving four spaces.
Councilmember Barker asked
how many spaces she has out there.
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OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 12 OF 30
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated they
are not really marked.She also has the side spaces and the
ones in the back.She estimated the total to be 30 spaces.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked if
that was 30 spaces in back.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated the
east side of the building has spaces as well and the back end
has probably 15.
Councilmember Serdy asked if
there is any chance that the pizza place will benefit from this.
He asked if her patrons would be going over there and ordering
pizza.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated they
have always invited Pete to be a part of the party.It is his
discretion if he would like to or not.
Councilmember Serdy commented
there will be extra people there and they can go over and order.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated one
would assume that someone would like to take advantage of that.
All she can do is offer.
Councilmember Evans asked if
she had the entire parking lot as an extension the last time
they had their anniversary party or did they just have the
sidewalk.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated they
just had the sidewalk.
Councilmember Evans asked if
the police department had the same concerns last time.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented he
did not recall their ever having the front sidewalk blocked for
an extension of premises.
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OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 13 OF 30
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated the
only time they have blocked it off was for the entire parking
lot.Because of some concerns of the neighbors it was suggested
to us at the planning meeting that they back off and only use
the sidewalk in order to appease the different factions that
needed to approve the parking.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
they did not have the sidewalk blocked off last year.
Ms. Liz Reynolds stated they
did not.
Councilmember Evans asked if
they have had this issue before with a sidewalk butting up
against a parking lot and the concern of moving cars coming and
going with people outside that were drinking.
Public Safety Director Jerald
Monahan stated the last event that he is aware of that Jakes-0-
Mine had was well attended, the parking lot was fairly full, and
he was not aware of any issues that arose from traffic around or
within that parking lot.
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.
Councilmember Waldron
commented he has far less concerns about this event than he had
with the previous event.The fact that there have not been any
issues before and the hours of the event make a big difference
to him.
Mayor Insalaco closed the
discussion with no further comments and called for a motion.
Councilmember Waldron MOVED
THAT THE APPLICATION FOR A TEMPORARY EXTENSION OF PREMISES FOR
JAKES-O-MINE SALOON FOR NOVEMBER 4, 2012, SUBMITTED BY MONA E.
REYNOLDS, BE RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL TO THE ARIZONA DEPARTMENT
OF LIQUOR LICENSES AND CONTROL.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 14 OF 30
Councilmember Evans SECONDED
THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
RESOLUTION NO. 12-34, AUTHORIZING
THE SUBMISSION OF A FISCAL YEAR
2013 BROWNFIELDS ASSESSMENT GRANT
APPLICATION FOR FUNDS TO CONDUCT
A COMMUNITY -WIDE PHASE I AND
PHASE II ASSESSMENT FOR POTENTIAL
PETROLEUM AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
CONTAMINATION
)Revenue Resources Manager
Roger Hacker briefed the council on the item.He also
introduced Tod Whitwer from Allwyn Environmental.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented
the Grand Hotel property used to have their own sewer treatment
plant.He asked if that would have to be checked out to make
sure it is a clean site.
Mr. Tod Whitwer stated during
Phase I they look at conditions that would typically cause an
impairment to the site.In that particular case, since they did
use chemicals, there could be leakage from the treatment plant
that would impact either the soil or groundwater at that site.
They would therefore do a Phase II on that property.
Revenue Resources Manager
Roger Hacker continued with his briefing.
Councilmember Barker asked if
sites that are currently occupied would be part of the
assessment.
Revenue Resources Manager
Roger Hacker stated he believes so.
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OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 15 OF 30
Councilmember Barker asked if
the property owners would be notified that they have this
problem.
Revenue Resources Manager
Roger Hacker stated they would work with the property owners for
inclusion in the assessment.They cannot go on someone's
private property and do the assessment.They would get the
results.There are no unintended consequences as he understands
it.It is identified on the property and therefore
ramifications come to the property owner.There is no sword
hanging over their heads contingent upon what has been found.
Councilmember Serdy asked if
they have devalued a property and made it harder for someone to
get rid of them if they make it look like there is contamination
and problems and they do not get this grant.We are saying how
terrible this is and we need help.If they do not get the
grant, everyone will use that and say they do not want it
because there is contamination on the site.
Mr. Tod Whitwer stated during
the preparation of the application itself they will not discuss
specific sites.They will give a.general discussion of the
inventory of the sites they would be looking at if they were to
get the grant.They would say in the grant they are looking at
about 20 to 30 sites that may be impacted and have already been
identified as part of their preliminary inventory.They will
not be specific to say that this is such and such property at
this address with this parcel number.
Councilmember Serdy commented
once the findings are made, and if they are negative, then it is
the city's job to get more grants to take care of this problem
and bring the property back up to make it more marketable.They
could have a couple of years in between where it is not too
good.
Mr. Tod Whitwer stated he has
probably done close to 300 to 400 Phase I's using Brownfields
grant funds within the State of Arizona.On only one occasion
did they have to make any sort of notification to the regulatory
agencies that there was a problem at the site.There are only
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 16 OF 30
three general conditions in which you do need to report to the
regulatory agency that there is a problem.The first one is an
underground storage tank that is not registered.They would
have to register that with the regulatory agency.If during the
assessment they do find the tank leaking, they need to make
notification.The second condition is if there is any impact to
groundwater then they need to make notification.The third
condition is if there is what is called an imminent threat to
human health in the environment.In that situation you also
need to notify the regulatory agencies about that.In the last
case, if there was an imminent threat, you would know it because
people would be getting sick and there would be a very obvious
environmental impairment.Those are the only times you are
compelled to report.The advantage to this program is that not
only is the owner saving money in not having to pay for the
assessment, but they are also getting a free examination.A lot
of people do not like to buy a gas station because they know
there will be a lot of clean up funds that will have to be
spent.In his experience, generally gas stations do not have
the type of impact people expect.When a mom and pop operator
want to sell their property they normally do not get a lot of
people who want to buy it.They are reluctant to put the
property up for sale because they think they are facing a huge
sum of money to clean it up.With these funds, they are allowed
to go in and assess the property and then either do the Phase I
and a Phase II if necessary which will give them the certitude
of the actual cost to clean up that property.What typically
happens is the gas station owner finds out what they have to pay
is about $25,000 to clean up a site whereas they thought before
the assessment they would have to pay $250,000.That means that
property can then be sold because there is no uncertainty about
the clean up costs.It can be sold, redeveloped, a new gas
station can be put in, new affordable housing can be put in, a
new strip mall can be put in or whatever use that would be most
beneficial to the city can be put in.It is all being catalyzed
by the use of these grant funds.
Councilmember Serdy commented
it is what they want to hear.They want to hear way more
positive than negative.
Mr. Tod Whitwer stated he has
several case studies he can provide that can demonstrate how
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OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 17 OF 30
smaller communities have benefitted from this, both the
community as a whole and the property owners who reside in the
community.
Councilmember Wilson
commented this could also be reassuring to the property owner as
to the extent of or relieve them of the burden they thought they
had.He asked if that is partly what he will be doing.
Mr. Tod Whitwer stated that
is correct.The Phase II site assessment determines the
vertical and horizontal extent of contamination or how far out
the contamination has gone and how deep it has gone.The funds
can be used to determine the extent and to put together a cost
estimate for what it would cost to clean up.
City Attorney Joel Stern
asked the consultant to briefly describe what happened in the
South Tucson case study.
Mr. Tod Whitwer stated South
Tucson had a Brownfields Community -Wide Assessment Grant also,
the same that is being proposed here.They asked him to do a
Phase I on a piece of property that was a vacant lot that had
been vacant for a number of years.It was one of the sites
where everyone thought there might be issues.He did the Phase
I and determined there were no recognized environmental
conditions.In layman's terms, it is a clean site.Once he
finished the Phase I the city was able to market the property.
Two months later a paving company moved in and immediately added
15 employees with a payroll of about one million dollars a year
plus the tax -based revenue from that.It was a very simple
process to do the Phase I, it did not cost anyone any money and
the city benefited greatly from that.
Councilmember Waldron asked
if he has ever identified a property where the property owner
was not aware that there was any environmental concern on any of
the community -wide assessments he had done.
Mr. Tod Whitwer stated he
has.There have been several situations where they had a
feeling there was going to be a problem but they were not sure
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OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 18 OF 30
how much there was.There has never been a situation in his
experience where the property owner was completely surprised
about the environmental conditions that existed at his site.He
added Mr. Hacker did an excellent job of going through the grant
funding, but he did not touch upon that this also includes
assessment for asbestos and lead -based paints.They can do an
asbestos assessment of some of the older buildings which is
really important when someone wants to sell their property and
have their building demolished.
City Attorney Joel Stern
asked if it could include city properties.
Mr. Tod Whitwer stated they
can do the assessments for both private owners and for city-
owned property.There are some nuances for determining the
eligibility of a property for use of Brownfields funds.That is
the main reason they are going after both funds.The petroleum
site is a little harder to spend the money because they have to
go into more depth on previous ownership.The hazardous has no
limitations to whom can do it.They can work around the
limitations on the petroleum site.
Mayor Insalaco commented a
lot of the new gas stations have tanks that are fiberglass,
plastic or poly something.He asked if those are better than
the steel tanks.
Mr. Tod Whitwer stated
absolutely.The soil conditions tend to corrode the steel
tanks.When they go to excavate the steel tanks, there are no
tanks left.
Councilmember Serdy commented
there has been a commercial lately about radon gas and proofing
your property against this.He asked if that figures in
anywhere.
Mr. Tod Whitwer stated they
can use this to assess for radon also.He added the grant
application is due November 19 and that is why they are pushing
to get the community involvement.They will know if the grant
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 19 OF 30
is successful in the spring of 2013.The funds will be
available in October 2013.
Revenue Resource Manager
Roger Hacker commented public involvement and public input is
critical to this process.To help expedite that, they have
another public meeting a week from tonight at the multi-gen
center.They have another public meeting on November 1 at the
multi-gen center.They will make a draft of the application
available for them to mark up and a link on the website where
citizens can access it.He encouraged everyone to send comments
to himself or Mr. Whitwer and turn out for the public meetings
because at least a third of our application will be reviewed for
how much we were able to reach out and involve the community.
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 RESOLUTION NO. 12-34, A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF APACHE JUNCTION, PINAL COUNTY, ARIZONA,
APPROVING SUBMISSION OF A GRANT APPLICATION TO THE U.S.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY FOR FEDERAL BROWNFIELDS FUNDS
FOR THE ASSESSMENT OF COMMUNITY -WIDE SITES WITHIN THE CITY OF
APACHE JUNCTION, ARIZONA, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY, BE
APPROVED.
Vice Mayor Dietz SECONDED THE
MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
SECOND REQUIRED PUBLIC HEARING ON
THE CONTINUATION OF THE LOCAL
ALTERNATIVE EXPENDITURE
LIMITATION - HOME RULE OPTION
)City Clerk Kathleen
Connelly briefed the council on the item.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 20 OF 30
Community Relations Manager
Pat Brenner briefed the council on history of the local
alternative expenditure limitation and how it penalizes
governmental entities like Apache Junction.It is based on a
base year where the budget was nearly zero and the formula used
is based on inflation and population.A yes vote is for home
rule and setting a balanced budget through locally -elected
representatives, and a no vote is against home rule with a
preference for the city to operate under the state -imposed
budget.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked if he
is saying that even though the city might have the funds, it
would be restricted by the state from spending all of it.They
would only be allowed to spend so much.It would be like having
$50,000 and big brother says you can only spend $30 of it.
Community Relations Manager
Pat Brenner stated that is correct and it is a good example.In
the packet they have information from the city clerk.He took
the figures that show the estimated revenues for the next four
budget years and the figures of the expenditures that would be
allowable under the alternative expenditure limitation, or what
we expected to have versus what we could spend.The difference
between the two figures for 2013-2014 is $7.1 million which
could not be spent.In 2014-2015 it is $8.2 million.The
cumulative effect over 4 years is almost $36 million.It is a
very serious issue.
Councilmember Barker asked
what the projection is on the population.
Community Relations Manager
Pat Brenner stated he does not know.They are using the census
for the past population.
Councilmember Barker
commented the community is growing.It is not the rapid growth
they have seen in the past, but it has begun to pick up a bit.
If they get to the point where we need a new police officer or
three, or we need to fix the potholes in the road, or the
library needs some extra things, even though we have the money
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 21 OF 30
in the general fund we could not do those things if home rule is
not passed.
Community Relations Manager
Pat Brenner stated that is correct.They would have to take the
money from somewhere else.
Councilmember Wilson asked
what would be the impact to our current police department,
current public works, library and parks and recreation if home
rule is not passed.
Community Relations Manager
Pat Brenner stated that would be a policy decision of the
council on behalf of the community.He believes that many of
those municipal services and functions that most communities
take for granted would cease to exist.
Councilmember Barker
commented or shrink dramatically.
Community Relations Manager
Pat Brenner stated in the case of the police department it would
shrink dramatically.If they think about the last budget cycle
they went through and present the picture in your mind of
sweeping $7.1 million off the table, it would give them a good
idea.They probably could not afford it.
City Manager George Hoffman
stated to make it a little less abstract, they could completely
close the library.Envision it with plywood boarded up over the
windows.They could completely eliminate every penny from parks
and recreation.If we had plywood, envision the multi-gen
boarded up, the pool gates chained closed, and those two
operations completely shut down and we would still have to look
for money in administration and public safety.Public safety is
our largest general fund budget.They could completely
eliminate some of the smaller budgets, but they would ultimately
have to end up at the police department because that is where
the money is.It goes back to what Pat told you.When you have
zero dollars in your base year for a library and almost nothing
for parks and recreation, zero adjustment for population,
anything times zero is zero.It is just a function of that
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 22 OF 30
state formula happening to apply to a city that was in its first
year of operation.It was just getting started.It was not a
typical year like it was for most communities.
Mayor Insalaco opened the
public hearing on the item.
Mr. Clark Smithson, 1700 S.
Weaver Drive, Apache Junction, stated it is very difficult for
him to conceive anyone understanding the issue and voting
against it.It is the same as having an income of $10,000 and
being only able to spend $6.You could not even spend the
interest you are putting in the bank.It is one of the most
ridiculous things the city is confronted with but we are and we
have to go through the vote.He urged everyone to talk to their
friends and urge them to vote positively.
Ms. Maxine Brown, 6908 S.
Crimson Sky Place, Gold Canyon, stated from 1978 to 1985 she was
a town manager in southeastern Arizona.This is a critical
issue and it needs to be passed.The Town of Patagonia was the
second one to pass home rule in the early 80's.The first city
was Casa Grande.It needs to be done and she wants to support
them in it.
Mayor Insalaco closed the
public hearing with no one else wishing to speak and reopened
the item to council discussion.There being no further
discussion, he closed the item as this was a public hearing only
with no action required.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated because of the way state law is written, they now have to
recess the regular meeting, convene the special meeting and ask
for another roll call so that the record shows that they are all
still here.
Mayor Insalaco recessed the
regular meeting and opened the special meeting.He asked for a
roll call.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 23 OF 30
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
commented this is for the special meeting and proceeded with the
roll call.All members were present.
SPECIAL MEETING - PROPOSED
RESOLUTION NO. 12-33, AN EXTENSION
OF THE LOCAL ALTERNATIVE
EXPENDITURE LIMITATION - HOME RULE
OPTION
) City Clerk Kathleen
Connelly briefed the council on the item.
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 discussion, he called for a
motion.
Councilmember Waldron MOVED
THAT RESOLUTION NO. 12-33, A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF APACHE JUNCTION, ARIZONA, PROPOSING AN
EXTENSION OF THE ALTERNATIVE EXPENDITURE LIMITATION - HOME RULE
OPTION, BE APPROVED.
Councilmember Evans SECONDED
THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
Mayor Insalaco called for a
short recess.
Mayor Insalaco reconvened the
regular meeting.
OLD BUSINESS
None.
NEW BUSINESS
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 24 OF 30
ANNUAL BOARD AND COMMISSION
APPOINTMENTS AND REAPPOINTMENTS
)City Clerk Kathleen
Connelly briefed the council on the item.
Mayor Insalaco commented they
have the Construction Code Board of Appeals with four positions.
Vice Mayor Dietz MOVED THAT
DALLAS DEWEY BE REAPPOINTED TO THE CONSTRUCTION CODE BOARD OF
APPEALS IN THE CONTRACTOR OTHER THAN A GENERAL CONTRACTOR
CATEGORY FOR A TERM TO EXPIRE OCTOBER 31, 2014.
Councilmember Barker SECONDED
THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
Councilmember Waldron MOVED
THAT ANTHONY BOWLER BE APPOINTED TO THE CONSTRUCTION CODE BOARD
OF APPEALS IN THE PROFESSIONAL ARCHITECT OR ENGINEER CATEGORY
FOR A TERM TO EXPIRE OCTOBER 31, 2014.
Councilmember Evans SECONDED
THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
Mayor Insalaco commented the
Health and Human Services Commission has two positions.
Vice Mayor Dietz MOVED THAT
RANDY MULLEN AND JODENE WEETER BE REAPPOINTED TO THE HEALTH AND
HUMAN SERVICES COMMISSION FOR TERMS TO EXPIRE OCTOBER 31, 2015.
Councilmember Waldron
SECONDED THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 25 OF 30
The motion carried.
Vice Mayor Dietz commented he
was hoping Christa Rizzi was here.She is on the Health and
Human Services Commission and her term expires next year.She
has missed four out of the five meetings for the last two years.
He wished she was here so that he could ask her about it.
Councilmember Serdy commented
that is what he was discussing yesterday.She works.She can
make it at 4:30 and they made it at 4:00.She needs it moved
back and she would never miss a meeting is what she explained.
Mayor Insalaco commented next
is the Industrial Development Authority and they have three
positions.
Councilmember Waldron MOVED
THAT JEFF STRUBLE BE APPOINTED TO THE INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT
AUTHORITY FOR A TERM TO EXPIRE OCTOBER 31, 2016.
Councilmember Evans SECONDED
THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
Mayor Insalaco asked if they
have a second one.
Vice Mayor Dietz asked if
anyone has anyone else.There are two more openings.
Councilmember Barker
suggested Rudolph Tameron.He was not here for the interview
but he had good credentials.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated he had not been there for any interviews.
Councilmember Serdy commented
he used to coach Little League with Rudy.He lives over by
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 26 OF 30
Superstition Mountain Elementary School.His kids went to
school here and he grew up here.
Mayor Insalaco commented they
can put him on and if he wants to he can.
Vice Mayor Dietz MOVED THAT
RUDOLPH TAMERON BE APPOINTED TO THE INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT
AUTHORITY FOR A TERM TO EXPIRE OCTOBER 31, 2015.
Councilmember Barker SECONDED
THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimious.
The motion carried.
Mayor Insalaco commented the
Municipal Property Corporation has two positions.
Vice Mayor Dietz MOVED THAT
WAYNE STANDAGE BE REAPPOINTED TO THE MUNICIPAL PROPERTY
CORPORATION FOR A TERM TO EXPIRE ON OCTOBER 31, 2015, AND I MOVE
THAT JEFF STRUBLE BE APPOINTED TO THE MUNICIPAL PROPERTY
CORPORATION FOR A TERM TO EXPIRE OCTOBER 31, 2014.
Councilmember Waldron
SECONDED THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
Mayor Insalaco called for a
motion for the Public Safety Personnel Retirement Board.
Councilmember Waldron MOVED
THAT TOM JAMES BE REAPPOINTED TO THE PUBLIC SAFETY PERSONNEL
RETIREMENT BOARD FOR A TERM TO EXPIRE OCTOBER 31, 2016, AND I
MOVE THAT CLYDE ALLISON BE REAPPOINTED TO THE PUBLIC SAFETY
PERSONNEL RETIREMENT BOARD IN THE POLICE DEPARTMENT
REPRESENTATIVE POSITION FOR A TERM TO EXPIRE ON OCTOBER 31,
2016.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 27 OF 30
Councilmember Wilson SECONDED
THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
COUNCIL DIRECTION TO STAFF
None.
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, NOVEMBER 5, 2012, IN THE CITY COUNCIL
CONFERENCE ROOM AND CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS, RESPECTIVELY; AND
THAT AN EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 5:45 P.M. BE HELD ON TUESDAY,
NOVEMBER 6, 2012, IN THE CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE ROOM.
Councilmember Evans SECONDED
THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
CALL TO THE PUBLIC:
Ms. Maxine Brown, 6908 S. Crimson Sky Place, Gold Canyon,
addressed the council regarding compliments she had received
from people on the library and the multi-gen center and their
staff.
Mr. Conrad Pisinski, 1069 W. 14th Avenue, Apache Junction,
filled out a form but declined to speak.
Mr. John Lupi, 1030 W. 14th Avenue, Apache Junction, addressed
the council to thank the council for looking into the problems
with the sewer district.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 28 OF 30
Mayor Insalaco commented when the sewer district started it was
$20 to sign up, not $200.He came home and they had dug a hole
in his yard for his sewer right by his pool.They had left a
note asking him where to dig but it had blown away.He had two
hook-ups in his yard and paid 8 years for them.He commented
most of them on the council feel the same way.
ADJOURNMENT
)Mayor Insalaco adjourned
the meeting at 8:40 p.m.
Consent Agenda Items are as follows:
1. Acceptance of Agenda.
2. Approval of Minutes of Regular Meeting of October 2, 2012.
3. Consideration of intergovernmental agreement with Pinal
County for election and voter registration services for the
March 2013 and May 2013 elections.
ACCEPTED THIS 6TH DAY OF NOVEMBER, 2012, BY THE MAYOR AND CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF APACHE JUNCTION, ARIZONA.
SIGNED AND ATTESTED TO THIS 6TH DAY OF NOVEMBER, 2012.
HN S. INSALACO
Mayor
ATTEST:
KATHLEEN CONNELLY
City Clerk
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 29 OF 30
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
16th day of October, 2012.I further certify that the meeting
was duly called and held and that a quorum was present.
Dated this 31st day of October, 2012.
KATHLEEN CONNELLY
City Clerk
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OCTOBER 16, 2012
PAGE 30 OF 30