HomeMy WebLinkAbout2007-04-03 City Council Regular MinutesCITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
APRIL 3, 2007
The regular meeting of the City Council of the City of
Apache Junction, Arizona, was held on April 3, 2007, at the
Apache Junction City Council Chambers pursuant to the notice
required by law.
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Coleman called the meeting to order at 7:12 p.m.
INVOCATION
Councilmember Insalaco gave the Invocation.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Councilmember Dietz led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present:Mayor Coleman
Vice Mayor Eck
Councilmember Dietz
Councilmember Insalaco
Councilmember Severs
Councilmember Sippel
Councilmember Waldron
Staff Present:City Manager George Hoffman
Assistant City Manager Bryant Powell
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
City Attorney Joel Stern
Parks & Recreation Director Jeff Bell
Library Director Pam Loui
Development Svcs. Director Brad Steinke
Community Relations Mgr. Pat Brenner
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
APRIL 3, 2007
PAGE 1 OF 29
Others Present:Assistant Planner Todd Kennedy
Senior Planner Rudy Esquivias
Economic Dev. Director Steve Filipowicz
Planning Manager Fred Baker
Public Works Manager Shane Kiesow
Assistant Planner Yanet Ochoa
Asst. to the City Manager Ruth Giese
ACCEPTANCE OF CONSENT AGENDA
)Vice Mayor Eck MOVED THAT
THE CONSENT AGENDA BE ACCEPTED AS PRESENTED; AND
THAT PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT BETWEEN PIPERJAFFRAY
COMPANY AND THE CITY OF APACHE JUNCTION FOR FINANCIAL ADVISOR
SERVICES IN AN AMOUNT ,NOT TO EXCEED $55,000 ANNUALLY BE
APPROVED; AND THAT AUTHORIZATION BE GIVEN FOR THE MAYOR TO SIGN
THE AGREEMENT; AND
THAT THE AWARD OF BID FOR PROJECT NO. PR -07-01, DESIGN AND
INSTALLATION OF BLEACHERS AND COVER AT THE APACHE JUNCTION RODEO
PARK EVENT CENTER BE AWARDED TO SOUTHERN BLEACHER COMPANY FOR
PERMANENT COVERED GRANDSTANDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $441,950 PLUS AN
ADDITIONAL $8,050 IN THE EVENT OF UNFORESEEN CHANGE ORDERS FOR A
TOTAL AMOUNT OF $450,000; AND THAT THE MAYOR BE AUTHORIZED TO
SIGN THE AGREEMENT; AND
THAT THE AWARD OF BID FOR PROJECT NO. PR -07-04, LANDSCAPE
MAINTENANCE FOR RENAISSANCE POINT, ARROYO VERDE, PHELPS DRIVE
AND IRONWOOD COVE, BE AWARDED TO MARIPOSA HORTICULTURAL
ENTERPRISES INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $85,156 PLUS AN ADDITIONAL 10%
IN THE AMOUNT OF $8,515.60 IN THE EVENT OF UNFORESEEN CHANGE
ORDERS FOR A TOTAL AMOUNT OF $93,671.60 BE APPROVED; AND THAT
THE MAYOR BE AUTHORIZED TO SIGN THE AGREEMENT.
Councilmember Dietz SECONDED
THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
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APRIL 3, 2007
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AWARDS, PRESENTATIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS
Mayor Coleman presented certificates of achievement to the 23
graduates of the ninth Citizen Leadership Institute.
CALL TO THE PUBLIC
Mr. Noel Benoist, 900 N. San Marcos #35, Apache Junction,
addressed the council to apologize for a comment he made at the
last meeting.
Ms. Phyllis Niemela, 18345 E. El Amancer, Gold Canyon, addressed
the council on behalf of the Friends of the Library to voice
their support for the approval of the library expansion project.
Mr. Dan Wald, 560 N. Rennick, Apache Junction, addressed the
council regarding a sporting event.
Mr. Ray Blevins, 730 W. Southern, Apache Junction, addressed the
council to request permanent help on the flooding issue in his
neighborhood.
Mrs. Rayna Palmer, 567 W. Apache Trail, addressed the council to
introduce Ariel Ohler, the new contract service manager for the
Main Street Program and the Community Development Corporation.
Vice Mayor Eck commented the city is putting a project together
on the Ray Blevins flooding issue that is to be on the shelf for
future Community Development Block Grants.
Councilmember Severs thanked Mr. Blevins for being so patient
and he hoped they would be able to figure out a way to help him.
ANNOUNCEMENT OF CURRENT EVENTS
Councilmember Sippel apologized to Councilmember/Mayor-elect
Insalaco for comments made immediately after the election.
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
None.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
APRIL 3, 2007
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PUBLIC HEARINGS
RESOLUTION NO. 07-15, AUTHORIZING
THE LOAN REPAYMENT AGREEMENT FOR
THE LIBRARY EXPANSION PROJECT
Assistant City Manager
Bryant Powell briefed the council on the item.He stated this
approves the form and authorizes the execution and delivery of a
second loan repayment agreement and continuing disclosure,
undertaking accepting a loan from the Greater Arizona
Development Authority pursuant to the loan repayment agreement.
It allows them to move forward with the agreement and continue
the expansion of the library.
Mayor Coleman 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 Sippel MOVED
THAT RESOLUTION NO. 077 15, A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF APACHE JUNCTION, ARIZONA, APPROVING THE
FORM AND AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF A SECOND LOAN
REPAYMENT AGREEMENT, A FINANCIAL GUARANTY AGREEMENT AND A
CONTINUING DISCLOSURE UNDERTAKING; ACCEPTING A LOAN FROM THE
GREATER ARIZONA DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY PURSUANT TO SUCH LOAN
REPAYMENT AGREEMENT IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $4,000,000;
AUTHORIZING THE APPROVAL OF THE PORTIONS OF AN OFFICIAL
STATEMENT DESCRIBING THE CITY AND THE DISTRIBUTION THEREOF;
DELEGATING TO THE CITY MANAGER THE AUTHORITY TO DESIGNATE THE
FINAL INTEREST RATE, MATURITY DATE, PRINCIPAL AMOUNT, PREPAYMENT
PROVISIONS, AND OTHER MATTERS WITH RESPECT TO SUCH LOAN
REPAYMENT AGREEMENT; AUTHORIZING THE TAKING OF ALL OTHER ACTIONS
NECESSARY TO CONSUMMATE THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED BY THIS
RESOLUTION; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY, BE APPROVED.
Councilmember Severs SECONDED
THE MOTION.
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APRIL 3, 2007
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VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
ORDINANCE NO. 1286, ESTABLISHING
LOCATIONS FOR "NO PARKING" SIGNS
ON PUBLIC RIGHTS -OF -WAY
)Public Works Manager Shane
Kiesow briefed the council on the item.He stated the need for
no parking signs on the west side of Cortez was discussed at a
work session a month ago, with direction given the next night to
move forward with the ordinance.This addresses safety issues
of sight distance with residents of Cortez Ranch and Arizona
Goldfield pulling out onto Cortez with parked vehicles in the
area.The parked vehicles have also been encroaching on the
thru lanes on Cortez which is dangerous for the traffic on
Cortez, especially when the recreational vehicles are parking
there.There have also been issues of overnight campers on the
road with their recreational vehicles.
Councilmember Severs asked if
there would be a 30 day warning period.
Public Works Manager Shane
Kiesow stated they have to have a 30 day warning period.There
was also direction to staff to deliver flyers so that will also
be done to residents in the area.They also usually put an
information placard on the roadway advising no parking along
that side for those people who may not get the flyers.
Mayor Coleman 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 Insalaco MOVED
THAT ORDINANCE NO. 12436 BE READ BY TITLE ONLY AND THE READING OF
THE ENTIRE ORDINANCE BE.WAIVED.
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APRIL 3, 2007
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Councilmember Dietz SECONDED
THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
-City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
read the ordinance by title only.
Councilmember Insalaco MOVED
THAT ORDINANCE NO. 1286, AS READ BY THE CITY CLERK, BE APPROVED
AND ADOPTED.
Councilmember Dietz SECONDED
THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
CASE PZ-3;-07 v APPEAL. OF ,LANDSCAPE
AND SCREENING REQUIREMENTS/
ORDINANCE NO.. 940, REQUESTED BY
CRAIG BOSWELL -OF'QUIKTRIP'
CORPORATION'TO'WAIVEREQUIREMENTS!,
TO UNDERGROUND EXISTING ELECTRIC ,•
UTILITY LINES
)-Senior Planner Rudy
ESquivias• briefed:the ,council on the item.He -stated the
applicants_are requesting that the requirement to underground
adiatent'121:KV lines:be-waived.' At -the -work session last night.
the original staffrecommendationwas-,discussed along • withsome-
. options .based on -discussion at thelest:regular meeting.A'.
follow-up ;telephonic -meeting was held,withthe applicant today_
and the applicant:wotildlike to,discusssome•possible options
with the,council[this-evening.Staff.isrequesting some f011ow—
up .if need be.,
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APRIL 3, 2007
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Mayor Colemen requested the
applicant address the council.
Mr. David Chzeski, 11811 N.
Tatum Boulevard, Phoenix, addressed thecouncil.He stated this
item was continued with the hope that QuikTrip would come back
with some mitigation options to offset the undergrounding of the
utilities.They looked at additional'landscaping and some other
features.At the work session last night it was brought up that
the city possesses some aesthetic funds they may be willing to
contribute to enhance ,a key corner.He met with QuikTrip
management to discuss .a compromise this morning, subsequently
followed by a telephonic meeting with city staff.He believes
they have a compromise that will allow QuikTrip the ability to
move forward and build the site, bring a :new business into the
city, and accomplish the undergrounding of the lines.The
proposal is entering into a development agreement with the city
to underground the utility lines along Idaho Road as they cross
Old West Highway and along the Old West Highway frontage in
exchange for the city's contribution from the aesthetic fund in
the amount of $125,000; the complete undergrounding is described
as taking the existing overhead utilities from the north side -of
Old West Highway at the pole right by the Chevron,
undergrounding them on Old West Highway inclusive of the pole on
QuikTrip property, which would ultimately tie into an existing
underground utility that feeds the development to the west,
including undergrounding the utilities from what would be the
extreme southeast corner of the QuikTrip property along the
frontage along Old West Highway inclusive ofthe pole on the
property now which would be ultimately removed.QuikTrip would
construct its facility based on plans, site plans, canopies and
building elevations that staff has -reviewed and discussed this
morning.The site plan has substantial changes from what was
previously submitted.The building elevation has very good
architectural characteristics on the front and rear of the
building.The canopy ties in the features of the canopy and
building in colors, textures, and type of materials.The canopy
columns will be completely masonry.and the side will be ephus
product which is similar to stucco and has 2reat wear
characteristics.QuikTrip shall add additional landscaping on
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APRIL 3, 2007
PAGE 7 OF 29
the south end of the building along Idaho Road.At the corner
they have agreed to add additional landscaping at the perimeter
and along the back of the building to break up the building.
There is a 2' to 3' elevation difference between the center
floor of the elevation and the road grade of Idaho; the
additional landscaping and the enhanced elevation of the
building will give a nice perspective to northbound traffic.
The code would require 31 trees on the property; they are
proposing 42 trees which are about 30% more and they will all be
put in the rear area.They are also discussing an enhanced
feature of either landscape or hardscape at the immediate corner
of Idaho and Old West Highway.QuikTrip will also be doing the
road improvements of curb, gutter and sidewalk around the
corner.They will work with staff on the fine details of the
landscape/hardscape improvement.They are thinking of seating
and additional paving so that people can walk to the seating
area, plus an additional sidewalk they could have as a short cut
through the landscaped area.All lighting under the canopy will
be flush mounted.As this is in a redevelopment area, QuikTrip
agrees to seek development impact fee reimbursement with the
understanding that they must file an application and it is
subject to staff's review and approval.
Councilmember Waldron asked
what the balance is in the account and if there are any projects
coming up where we would anticipate using additional monies for
other than this project.
Assistant City Manager Bryant
Powell stated the balance in the account, a Salt River Project
account, is $180,000, and he is not aware of any anticipated
projects next year in the capital budget.
Vice Mayor Eck asked if the
development fee being referred to is the roadway issue.
Assistant City Manager Bryant
Powell stated the current ordinance passed is not a
reimbursement.It is an actual waiver of the road impact fee,
which is one portion of the commercial impact fee.
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APRIL 3, 2007
PAGE 8 OF 29
is what he is referring to.
Powell stated he believes so.
roads, police and general gove
they do not receive the road p
portion is around $12,000.
Vice Mayor Eck asked if that
Assistant City Manager Bryant
In commercial cases, they impact
rnment.In the redevelopment area
ortion.In this case, the other
City Manager George Hoffman
asked what the amount being waived is.
Assistant City Manager Bryant
Powell stated the total amount is $92,000.
Councilmember Dietz asked how
much of that is the road development fee.
Assistant City Manager Bryant
Powell stated typically 85% of that is the road fee.That is
the portion that tends to get development in the downtown.
Councilmember Dietz commented
he understands there are not a lot of areas in the city where
they can get that kind of savings for development coming in.
Assistant City Manager Bryant
Powell stated it is a significant incentive.
Councilmember Dietz commented
they would be getting an additional amount they do not have to
pay besides the $125,000 of the city money to help them
underground.
Assistant City Manager Bryant
Powell stated that is correct.
Vice Mayor Eck commented he
thinks all the fees for the downtown area should be discussed at
a council forum.He added he thinks it is a very good proposal.
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APRIL 3, 2007
PAGE 9 OF 29
City Manager George Hoffman
stated this is the first he has seen this.He requested the
city attorney address whether a development agreement would
trigger the need for a financial analysis or a vote requirement.
City Attorney Joel Stern
stated under A.R.S. § 9-500.11, Expenditures for Economic
Development, the city could enter into a development agreement.
He does not see any tax refunds or municipal tax liability
issues of any kind for these proposed deal points.It appears
to be a retail development tax incentive agreement.Mr. Hoffman
was referring to a situation where tax monies could be paid back
and a third party would be needed to assess whether the city is
getting over 50% of the benefit.He does not think it would
based on what he sees.It will probably be a regular economic
development agreement where they could make these deal points.
It is negotiable.Development fees are typically paid upon
construction; these fees would be applicable but they are
exempted under this downtown redevelopment area.He believes it
would be negotiable if the council wants to negotiate these
types of points.
Mr. David Chzeski commented,
he has been told by staff that they would need to applyfor the
development fee waiver as a request for review.Based on
certain site criteria, such as quality of design and.
improvements and so forth, -the staff would give' it a rating.
The .rating dictates the extent of the impact fee credit.It is
their understanding that the fees are paid up front as part of
the building permit process and, based on the rating, a
percentage of those fees would be rebated or credited back to
the developer.He does not know what the actual number is
today; it is based on staff's review.
Councilmember Sippel
commented this is good dialogue but this is something they may
want to continue again because it sounds like staff is just now
seeing this portion.They need to get together and decide the
steps and process that they need to move forward on to put this
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APRIL 3, 2007
PAGE 10 OF 29
together.He assumed they were here tonight to show their.
proposal.
Mr. David Chzeski stated
based on their discussion last night they were going to try to
meet with staff this morning.This could be an approval of the
waiver subject to conditions or a withdrawal of the waiver and a
grant of something new; they are willing to work with staff to
make this happen procedurally.
Mayor Coleman commented his
intention is to deny the waiver request and direct staff of
their intention to enter into a development agreement including
these points.He liked the points.
City Manager George Hoffman
stated it would be an economic development agreement and they
would use this as an outline to negotiate the agreement that.
would come back for their consideration.
Councilmember Dietz asked_if.
they could deny it with: the following: additions.
City Attorney Joel Stern'
stated when they deny: it; it is denied.However, they can then
do 'a new motion to direct staff to meet -withthe ,.developer and
come :up with something acceptable to be -brought back to the
council, or they could:have an executive session in case there
Are legal issues on ths,language-.They,coulcUthen bring it ,back;
for -council consideration;
Mr. David Chzeski stated they
would rather. have the right to withdraw instead of having it
denied.They have:some:.issues on hbw,thiS:could be procedurally :
handled in the future.
Mayor Coleman asked if they,
could be allowed to-withdraw their waiver request.
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APRIL 3, 2007
PAGE 11 OF 29
City Attorney Joel Stern
stated they could.They could do a motion -that accepts the
withdrawal and then directs staff to -meet with the developer and
come back with other points and have an executive session.
Councilmember Waldron asked
if this needed to be brought back on a date certain.
City Attorney Joel Stern
stated it does not.
Mayor Coleman opened the
public hearing.
Mr. Louis Babin, 2191 S.
Belair, Apache Junction, addressed the council.He stated he
walked the property -to confirm there are drainage issues, and
there are quite a few.There are large drain tubesin the front
going to a-culvert.The lowest part of,the property is about 6'
below the road; a lbt of water could build up.There is another
one further into the property.He urged the council to do what
is necessary to have QuikTrip improve -the property.
Mr. Noel Benoist, 900 N. San
Marcos #35, Apache Junction, addressed the council.He stated
the business and property owners would like to see this
developed.He encouraged the council to find solutions and
partner like this in the future.
Mrs. Rayna Palmer, 6735 S.
Hohokam Way, chief executive officer:for Main _Street Program and
the Chamber of Commerce, addressed the council.She read from a
letter that the Main Street Program iS -in support of aesthetics
improvements.They are honored to have QuikTrip attracted to
Apache Junction.
Mayor Coleman closed • the
public hearing with -no -one -else,wishingto ,speak.He reopened:
the item to. councilidiscussion.There-being,mo further
discussion he called for :a motion.
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APRIL 3, 2007 .
PAGE:12 OF 29
Councilmember Waldron MOVED
TO ACCEPT THE'WITHDRAWAL OF THE APPEAL BASED ON THE REQUEST OF
THE APPLICANT; AND THAT WE DIRECT STAFF TO MEET WITH THE
APPLICANT AND DRAFT AN ACCEPTABLE AGREEMENT BASED ON THE
PROPOSAL PRESENTED, AS WELL AS WORKING WITH THE RECOMMENDATIONS
FROM STAFF.
Vice Mayor Eck SECONDED THE
MOTION.
There was general discussion
as to whether this had to be continued to a date certain.The
city attorney determined it did not.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
ORDINANCE NO. 1293, CASE PZ-1-07,
REZONING REQUEST FROM GR TO
CR-3/PD AND TO Rl/PD BY GARY
THAYER
)Assistant Planner Yanet
Ochoa briefed the council on the item.She stated this is a
23,878 net square foot nonconforming lot being rezoned from
general rural for a duplex by planned development and a single
family conventional home by planned development.The applicant
proposes to improve sewer, electric and water.He is asking for
a waiver on street improvements as there are currently no
sidewalks or curbs in the vicinity.The planning and zoning
commission conditioned the plan to provide driveway access to a
3 vehicle carport for the duplex tenants.A 1,900 sq.ft. single
family conventional home is proposed on the east side of the
property.The lot will be split into 2 lots.The planning and
zoning commission unanimously recommended approval with an
amendment do condition 4 concerning the carport.
Councilmember Dietz asked if
•the changes to condition 4 are included in the ordinance itself.
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APRIL 3, 2007
PAGE 13 OF 29
Assistant Planner Yanet Ochoa
stated that is correct.
Mayor Coleman requested the
applicant address the council.The applicant declined unless
there were questions.
Councilmember Waldron asked
the applicant if he was comfortable with the conditions of
approval.
Mr. Gary Thayer stated he
was.
Vice Mayor Eck commented it
looks like a beautiful project for the area.
Mayor Coleman 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 Dietz MOVED
THAT ORDINANCE NO. 1293 BE READ BY TITLE ONLY AND THE READING OF
THE ENTIRE ORDINANCE BE WAIVED.
Councilmember Waldron
SECONDED THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
read the ordinance by title only.
Councilmember Dietz MOVED
THAT ORDINANCE NO. 1293, AS READ BY THE CITY CLERK, BE APPROVED.
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APRIL 3, 2007
PAGE 14 OF 29
Coundilmember Waldron
SECONDED THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
Mayor Coleman called for a
ten minute break.
Mayor Coleman reconvened the
meeting.
AN -1-07, ANNEXATION OF PROPERTY
LOCATED AT HIGHWAY 88 BETWEEN
GOLDFIELD AND NODAK ROAD
)Senior Planner Rudy
Esquivias briefed the council on the item.He stated staff
requests the removal of this item from the agenda this evening
as they received a very good survey map with updated legal
descriptions from the applicants and the legal descriptions that
had gone out on the blank petition that had been recorded are
not up to date.Each step in the procedure must be accurate as
the only thing an annexation can be challenged on is the
procedural matters.They will need to start the process all
over again and they will be back in a month with a new petition.
The applicant agrees they need to do it right.
Mayor Coleman asked if they
had invited any others in that area who may be interested in
joining the annexation request.
Senior Planner Rudy Esquivias
stated that is something he would like to talk to the applicant
about tomorrow.The other issue is that the area to be annexed
has to be a certain width adjacent to the city limits and it can
be twice the length.There are some issues about configuring
the annexation area.If they can include a couple of other
properties, they can pick up the whole thing at once and save
some time and effort down the road.
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APRIL 3, 2007
PAGE 15 OF 29
Mayor Coleman asked if they
had to have the public hearing.
City Attorney Joel Stern
stated because_the-legal _description i6.inaccurate, if it were
challenged it:would be a technical violation ,.of the annexation
law so the hearing would be in violation.of :state law.It would
not count toward the'annexation.He does not think they can
have the public.hearingdue to .the legal -description problem.
Mayor Coleman closed the
discussion and moved on to the next item.
RESOLUTION NO. 07-16, DECLARING
"THE 2007 EDITION OF THE TAX CODE
OF THE CITY OF APACHE JUNCTION" A
PUBLIC RECORD; ORDINANCE NO. 1294,
ADOPTING BY REFERENCE "THE 2007
EDITION OF THE TAX CODE OF THE
CITY OF APACHE JUNCTION
) VCity Clerk Kathleen
Connelly briefed the council on the item.Last year as part of
the budget process the council approved the concept of going to
self -collection of city sales tax for a number of reasons.
Staff has been working diligently to put all the pieces in place
in order to start collecting our own sales tax on July 1.Two
portions of the city code must be amended.Chapter 8A is the-
tax code portion that is mandated by state law and when we
switch from being a program city to non -program city the actual
language to be adopted is also mandated.This ordinance
extracts the language that makes Apache Junction a program city
and inserts the language and regulations that make Apache
Junction a non -program city.The resolution declares it a
public record and the ordinance adopts the changes by reference.
Councilmember Dietz asked if
thiswould be a more accurate collection process for the city, as
far as getting, the amount of :revenue that is due the city.
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APRIL 3, 2007
PAGE 16 OF 29
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated she believes so.People in general, if they know there
is someone there local that they can callon the phone, they
tend to be more -diligent.Staff will be able to catch the
errors through the programs available.If the numbers do not
add up, they can iMmediately call the person.There is also not
the middle person that the funds are passing through.This
created a time lag.and the state was extracting money from us to
pay for their: computer system.'This will save the city that
payment.
Vice Mayor Eck commented that
being a customer he would say yes as it is easier to come here
and pay it.The convenience will make a large difference.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated they will be able to issue the taxpayer identification
number from the front desk.Currently they can mail it to
Phoenix which:takes 4 to 6 weeks, or they can -drive to Phoenix
or Chandler.There is currently no accommodation for the
taxpayer.
Vice Mayor Eck asked if a
person is behind in their taxes and they know this change is
coming up, can they wait to pay their taxes or should they pay
now.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated if someone is behind on their taxes and they know they
are behind, the interest is accruing daily so it would be better
to do it now than to wait.There will not be any difference in
the interest rate as that is mandated by state law.If it is
done sooner than later, they will pay less interest.
Mayor Coleman 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.
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APRIL 3, 2007
PAGE 17 OF 29
Councilmember Waldron MOVED
THAT RESOLUTION NO. 07-16, A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF APACHE JUNCTION, ARIZONA, DECLARING AS A
PUBLIC RECORD THAT CERTAIN DOCUMENT FILED WITH THE CITY CLERK
AND ENTITLED "THE 2007 EDITION OF THE TAX CODE OF THE CITY OF
• APACHE JUNCTION"; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY, BE APPROVED.
Vice Mayor Eck SECONDED THE
MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
Councilmember Waldron MOVED
THAT ORDINANCE NO. 1294 BE READ BY TITLE ONLY WITH THE EMERGENCY
CLAUSE AND THE READING OF THE ENTIRE ORDINANCE BE WAIVED.
Councilmember Sippel SECONDED
THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
read the ordinance by title only with the emergency clause.
Councilmember Waldron MOVED
THAT ORDINANCE NO. 1294, AS READ BY THE CITY CLERK, BE APPROVED
AND ADOPTED.
Councilmember Dietz SECONDED
THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
OLD BUSINESS
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APRIL 3, 2007
PAGE 18 OF 29
None.
NEW BUSINESS
None.
COUNCIL DIRECTION TO STAFF
CREATING A CITY -SPONSORED ADOPT -A-
SENIOR PROGRAM
)Councilmember Dietz
briefed the council on the item.Staff is looking for direction
to research further and to look at the costs.He will be
meeting with Assistant to the City Manager Ruth Giese and East
Valley Senior Services Executive Director Dan Taylor next week.
Scottsdale's estimated yearly cost is $12,000 to $13,000.
Assistant to the City Manager
Ruth Giese stated staff did a rough estimate of the current
salary for the person who runs the program in Scottsdale.She
only does it 60% of the time twice a year.Her portion is
estimated at $12,000 plus an estimated $1,800 for her benefits.
It would be roughly $13,800.
Councilmember Dietz stated
they would be looking at something like that through East Valley
Senior Services for now.They could maybe have adopt -a -senior
during the holiday and during the summer sometime also.
Assistant to the City Manager
Ruth Giese stated that is correct, and their meeting with Dan
Taylor is next week.
Vice Mayor Eck commented he
went with the meals on wheels and delivered lunches to seniors.
He got to speak with a lot of the people who work with the
program.They acted like they already have this, like a
Christmas tree, in place already.He told them one of the
councilmembers wanted to do this program.He suggested they
talk to them to determine what they already have in place.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
APRIL 3, 2007
PAGE 19 OF 29
Assistant to the City Manager
Ruth Giese stated they have not talked to them but they will be
meeting with them next week to present the program and see what
is already in place.
Vice Mayor Eck commented they
can always use more.What he really likes is their trying to
communicate with those who really need it.It is sad to do the
meals on wheels as for some of them they would not have any
contact with other people if it were not for that program.Any
way to get these people to communicate with others would be
great.
Councilmember Dietz commented
it is a great opportunity for them to get into some of these
peoples' homes and assess their additional needs.They can give
them additional assistance.
Councilmember Severs
commented there is a new organization in town called "A Blanket
of Hope".It is a nonprofit organization that is very large
back east.The woman who created it has moved here and it is
starting to take off here.He will get them her information so
that they can contact her.There are 3 portions; the biggest
portion is help for seniors with baskets of necessity items that
have been donated and are delivered to seniors.He thinks it
would be nice to put it in with this program.
Assistant to the City Manager
Ruth Giese stated it sounds like a similar program and they
might be able to work with them to enhance it.
Mayor Coleman closed the-
discussion with no further comments and called for a motion.
Councilmember Dietz MOVED
THAT THE FOLLOWING DIRECTION BE GIVEN TO STAFF REGARDING THE
CREATION OF AN ADOPT -A -SENIOR PROGRAM:TO PROCEED WITH LEARNING
ABOUT THE BLANKET OF HOPE PROGRAM AND OUTREACHING TO EAST VALLEY
REGULAR MEETING• OF THE CITY COUNCIL
APRIL 3, 2007
PAGE 20 OF 29
SENIOR SERVICES TO DISCUSS POSSIBLE INVOLVEMENT AND POTENTIAL.
CONTRACT AMENDMENT.
Councilmember Severs SECONDED
THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
COMMUNITY LEADERS YOUTH PROGRAM
)Councilmember Dietz
briefed the council on the item.He stated he would like to get
the youth in the community that are interested in government and
how it works to be involved in a leadership program with mock
city council .meetings once or twice a year.There are things
out there that different cities are doing.He thinks it is
important as these are the future leaders of the community.
Councilmember Sippel
commented:he iS-:a huge proponent of what Councilmember Dietz:
wants to do.Last year's national League president was hugeon
this, having:delegatesand programs for-them—
Councilmember Dietz commented
the Leaguedidlit atthe -Pinal County -Town Hall last year.He
thinks it isla great:program.
Councilmember Sippel
icommented he would like -to work with him -on ;this.
City -Manager George Hoffman
asked if he:wanted:staff to research all:the alternatives and
come back with information, or would he like :staff to workHaith -
the councilmembera to draft several programs ,and bring those:
back.
Councilmember Dietz commented
:they coUld,sit down together and,do it --and look at what out:
there There ie-a-,shadow program some use where the high school
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
APRIL 3, 2007
PAGE 21 OF 29
students ,: come.in -and !shadow different .staff members tosee::how
things operate.There are a number:.ofdifferent thingsthey,can
do.He would:like:staff to lookmat:it and see what is,available.
and viable
Vice !Mayor Eck commented .
there is enoughthere for staff to -look:at what is out there;
Councilmember Sippel
commented they do not have to look at them all.They could
start with Pinal County and the national one.
Mayor Coleman suggested!
possibly; what League :President Jeff Hunt has done in the:past:
Councilmember Dietz commented
he -talked. with -Tess Nesser about:it and .learned they have .a
program in:the .BOys:and :Girls Club that they could also:look
into.
Councilmember Severs ,
commentedhe:wouldlike ;for the councilmembers to go out
themselves:and -get some ideas and present them to staff before
they have staff get :involved in this.They could give them 2;or:
3 ideas.Between what CouncilMembers,Sippel and Dietz and: the.
mayor, plus himself,:they could come up with an amazing program
amongst themselves
Councilmember Dietz commented;
that is what:.hemeant; for the cOuncil'to get together and come
up with ideas and then work with staff:
COuncilmember Severs stated
he mould:like-to be:involved in: any way he:can.
Vice Mayor Eck commented he
agrees with;thiS:but .he :thinks it -would:be good for staff to
mediate or take control of it.
REGULAR MEETING OFTHE-CITY COUNCIL;
APRIL 3, 2007
PAGE 22 OF 291
City Manager George Hoffman
commented it appears there are several councilmembers interested
and there are several alternatives that can be researched.
Staff can then work with the councilmembers to draft some
programs to be brought back to the council as a whole.
Vice Mayor Eck commented
unless someone wants to volunteer to be the middle man, there
must be some direction to staff to have staff control it.
Mayor Coleman closed the
discussion with no further comments and called for a motion.
Councilmember Dietz MOVED
THAT THE FOLLOWING DIRECTION BE GIVEN TO STAFF REGARDING
CREATING A COMMUNITY YOUTH LEADERSHIP PROGRAM:RESEARCH
ALTERNATIVES, AND WORK WITH THE COUNCILMEMBERS TO BRING BACK A
FEW MODELS THAT THOSE COUNCILMEMBERS WOULD RECOMMEND TO THEIR
PEERS FOR POSSIBLE CONSIDERATION.
Councilmember Sippel SECONDED
THE MOTION.
Vice Mayor Eck commented he
had mentionedthe youth work program for seniors; the school'
helps them find positions with different companies.When hewas
at the water company, they had a girl who worked half days,
learning something about water utilities and getting paid for
it.
Councilmember Sippel
commented that is more of a work program, but they do get school
credit for it.
Councilmember Dietz commented
they are paying them $6-.25 an hour or $6.50 an hour and it is so
many hours during the summer.
Vice.Mayor Eck commented he
would like them to take. a look at that also.
REGULAR MEETING OFTHE CITY COUNCIL
APRIL 3, 2007
PAGE 23 OF 29
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
SUSTAINABLE BUILDING STANDARDS FOR
MUNICIPAL BUILDINGS AND POSSIBLE
SUSTAINABLE STANDARDS FOR
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
)Councilmember Dietz
briefed the council on the item.He stated he would like to
have an ordinance that any future municipal buildings with the
community facilities district should be an example with what we
have done with the multi-gen and the city complex as far as
building green.Especially with the global warming.The city
needs to take the lead on this as it did in getting the first
LEED municipal building certified.They should also look at
energy star efficient residential buildings.It would be a real
good selling point.It will end up saving them energy costs in
the long run.And they could have xeriscape landscaping.
Assistant City Manager Bryant
Powell commented there could also be tax credits.
Councilmember Dietz added
there would be water conservation with xeriscape.
Mayor Coleman stated Payson
has an ordinance about using the waterless urinals and others.
They paid for businesses to retrofit theirs.They used a grant
program.That could also be part of it.
Councilmember Sippel asked if
the library expansion has a green component to it.
Assistant City Manager Bryant
Powell stated.the library:expansion'has a remodel.The LEED is
a program under the U.S. Green Building Council.The existing
building program is a difficult task and very, very expensive.
They looked at it early on in the process.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
APRIL -3, 2007'
PAGE 24 OF 29
Councilmember Sippel
commented they are redoing the bathrooms.He asked if they
would have waterless urinals.
There was general discussion
on things that could be done.
Councilmember Waldron
commented they may want to look at the East Valley Partnership
as in their little town of Superstitionville to the south it has
addressed this issue.There is a section on that.
City Manager George Hoffman
stated he believed it was entitled "Think Green".
Councilmember Waldron
commented it has a lot of information in it.
Vice Mayor Eck commented they
need to call Payson and talk to them.It has the lowest lost
water percentage of any municipality in the state.
Councilmember Dietz commented
he thinks they need to do this now with the growth coming to the
south.They can be the example.
Mayor Coleman closed the
discussion with no further comments and called for a motion.
Councilmember Dietz MOVED
THAT THE FOLLOWING DIRECTION BE GIVEN TO STAFF REGARDING
ESTABLISHING SUSTAINABLE BUILDING STANDARDS FOR MUNICIPAL
BUILDINGS AND POSSIBLE SUSTAINABLE BUILDING STANDARDS FOR
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT:THAT STAFF LOOK INTO THE DIFFERENT
PROGRAMS AND ORDINANCES THAT ARE AVAILABLE, DIFFERENT WAYS THAT
WE CAN CONSERVE AND BUILD ENERGY -EFFICIENT; CREATING A CITY
ORDINANCE FOR BUILDING GREEN MUNICIPAL BUILDINGS IN THE FUTURE
IN NEW CONSTRUCTION; AND EVEN REMODELS WHEREVER WE CAN; AND TO
CONSERVE WATER, USE RECYCLED, INDIRECT LIGHTING, AND THINGS OF
THAT NATURE; AND EVERYTHING WE MENTIONED.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
APRIL 3, 2007
PAGE 25 OF 29
Councilmember Severs ADDED
THAT WE LOOK AT POSSIBLY DOING AN ENCOURAGEMENT OR INCENTIVE
PROGRAM TO GET PRIVATE RESIDENTIAL TO BUILD GREEN.
Councilmember Diett.ADDED
USING FIVE STAR BUILDING AND TAX INCENTIVE PROGRAMS; WHATEVER
THEY CAN DO TO ENCOURAGE IT.
Vice Mayor Eck SECONDED THE
MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
SCHEDULE FOR BOARD AND COMMISSION
APPOINTMENTS
)City Clerk Kathleen
Connelly briefed the council on the item.She stated this is
for various appointments and reappointments to city boards and
commissions.A lot of the terms are tied to a June 30
expiration date.Last night they stated.they wanted to follow
the same pattern as they had in yearsjpast:They would then
interview applicantsfor the planningand -zoning commission,
parks and recreation commission, library board ,and board of
adjustment at the work session of Apri116.They would make the
appointments on the 'next night, April -17.. The balance of the
interviews for the remaining boards and:commission would be done
on April 30, with the appointments on May 1.She asked if they
wished to interview the people who are seeking reappointment.
There was general discussion
among the council.The consensus was ,to have .them available in
the event of questions from the council.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated they also have applications on filefrom people they have
interviewed in the past but have not appointed.She asked if
the council wanted those people contacted.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
APRIL 3, 2007
PAGE 26 OF 29
The council consensus was
they were to be contacted and interviewed.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated staff normally goes back 2 years.
The council consensus was
that was what they wanted.
Councilmember Dietz. asked if
they have done a lot of advertising.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
stated they havereceivedlia lot of applications.
There was general discussion
on whether the mayor could make an application before he becomes
the former mayor and be interviewed.It was the general
consensus that the council could leave :a position vacant until
after June.
Mayor Coleman closed the
discussion and called for a motion.
Councilmember Dietz MOVED .
THAT THE FOLLOWINGDIRECTION13E GIVEN TO STAFF REGARDING
SCHEDULE FORHBOARD.AND -COMMISSION APPOINTMENTS/REAPPOINTMENTS:
TO SETTHE. INTERVIEWS_ FORiAPPLICAN FOR THEBOARD CT
ADJUSTMENT LIBRARY BOARD, :PARES. AND: RECREATION-ICOMMISSIOn AND •
PLANNING ANaZONING COMMISSION AT' THEIWORK -SESSION OF APRIL. 16„,
2007, WITH THE,APPOINTMENTSTO BE MADE AT THEEREGULAR MEETING OF
APRIL 1:7, 2007 SET THE INTERVIEWS FOR ,APPLICANTS,FOR THE
REMAINING BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS AT-THE -WORK:SESSION CT APRIL
30, :2007, WITH THE APPOINTMENTS TO BaMADE..AT'THE."REGULAR
MEETING OF MAY 1,,200 AND.'THAT. ALL MEMBERS 'UP FOR
REAPPOINTMENT' ATTEND THE INTERVIEW SESSIONS- FOR THEIR BOARDS IN
THE EVENT OF QUESTIONS-BY'THE _COUNCIL
Vice Mayor Eck SECONDED THE
MOTION
REGULAR MEETING OF ,THE CITY' COUNCIL
APRILE3„ 2007
PAGE; 27 OF 29
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
SELECTION OF MEETING DATES, TIMES, LOCATIONS, AND PURPOSES
Councilmember Dietz MOVED
THAT AN EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 6:00 P.M. AND A WORK SESSION AT
7:00 P.M. BE HELD ON MONDAY, APRIL 16, 2007, IN THE CITY COUNCIL
CONFERENCE ROOM AND CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS, RESPECTIVELY; AND
THAT AN EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 6:00 P.M. BE HELD ON TUESDAY, APRIL
17, 2007, IN THE CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE ROOM.
THE MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
ADJOURNMENT
Councilmember Severs SECONDED
)Mayor Coleman adjourned
the meeting at 8:58 p.m.
Consent Agenda Items are as follows:
1. Acceptance of Agenda.
2. Acceptance of Minutes of Regular Meeting of March 20, 2007.
3. Consideration of Professional Services Agreement with
PiperJaff ray & Co. for Financial Advisor services.
4. Award.-of Bid:PR -07-01 "Design and Installation of Bleacher
Cover at the Apache Junction Rodeo Park Event Center."
5. Award of Bid:PR -07-04• "Landscape Maintenance for
Renaissance Point, Arroyo Verde, Phelps Drive and Ironwood
Cove."
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
APRIL 3, 2007
PAGE. 28 OF 29
ACCEPTED THIS 17TH DAY OF APRIL, 2007, BY THE MAYOR AND CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF APACHE JUNCTION, ARIZONA.
SIGNED AND ATTESTED TO THIS 17TH DAY OF APRIL, 2007.
ATTEST:
KATHLEEN CONNELLY
City Clerk
DOUGLAS FOLEMAN
Mayor
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 3rd
day of April, 2007.I further certify that the meeting was duly
called and held and that a quorum was present.
Dated this 10th day of April, 2007.
KATHLEEN CONNELLY
City Clerk
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
APRIL 3, 2007
PAGE 29 OF 29