HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005-08-16 City Council Regular MinutesCITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
AUGUST 16,2005
The regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Apache Junction,
Arizona,was held on August 16,2005,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 7:00 p.m.
INVOCATION
Pastor Mark Friedrich gave the Invocation.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Vice Mayor Eck 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 (arrived 7:15 p.m.)
Assistant City Manager Bryant Powell
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
City Attorney Joel Stern
Interim Public Safety Director Terry McDonald
City Engineer Ron Grittman
Public Works Director Doug Dobson
Others Present:Public Works Manager Shane Kiesow
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 1 OF 38
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
Management Assistant Janine Solley
Grants Specialist Roger Hacker
CDBG Administrative Assistant Melinda Larson
ACCEPTANCE OF CONSENT AGENDA
)Vice Mayor Eck MOVED THAT THE
CONSENT AGENDA BE ACCEPTED AS PRESENTED;AND THAT DALE C.COLLIER AND PHIL J.
ROGERS BE APPOINTED AS DEPUTY CITY MAGISTRATES FOR THE TERM OF AUGUST 16.2005
THROUGH AUGUST 15,2007:AND THAT CHARLES J.ADORNETTO,E.EVANS FARNSWORTH
AND NORVAL C.JESPERSON BE APPOINTED AS MAGISTRATES PRO TEM FOR THE TERM OF
AUGUST 16,2005 THROUGH AUGUST 15,2007;AND
THAT THE STREET LIGHT IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT ASSESSMENTS SENT TO PINAL COUNTY
FOR YEAR 2005-2006 BE RATIFIED;AND
THAT A VEHICLE PURCHASE THROUGH STATE CONTRACT FOR THREE CROWN VICTORIA PATROL
CARS FOR THE POLICE DEPARTMENT AND ONE FULL-SIZE PICKUP TRUCK AND ONE ISUZU
ALL-PURPOSE MAINTENANCE TRUCK FOR THE PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT IN A
TOTAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $112.437.48,BE APPROVED;AND
THAT A VEHICLE PURCHASE THROUGH STATE CONTRACT FOR TWO FULL-SIZE PICKUPS,ONE
"HYBRID"FORD ESCAPE AND ONE ISUZU ALL-PURPOSE MAINTENANCE TRUCK FOR THE
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT IN A TOTAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $85,807,BE APPROVED;
AND
THAT RESOLUTION NO.04-15.A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF APACHE JUNCTION,ARIZONA,APPROVING A PRELIMINARY PLAT FOR MONTEREY
CASITAS,A RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISION,IN CASE SD -1-04,BY RICHARD RANDALL,BE
APPROVED;AND
THAT THE DATA ACCESS AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR
VEHICLES AND THE CITY OF APACHE JUNCTION FOR ELECTRONIC DATA ACCESS BY PARK
RANGERS AND CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS BE APPROVED;AND THAT AUTHORIZATION BE
GIVEN FOR THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN THE AGREEMENT SUBJECT TO FINAL APPROVAL AS
TO FORM BY THE CITY ATTORNEY.
Councilmember Dietz SECONDED THE
MOTION.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 2 OF 38
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
AWARDS,PRESENTATIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS
Mr,Kevin Adam,the legislative director of the League of Arizona Cities and
Towns,gave a 2005 legislative update and presentation on the role and
responsibilities of the League.He passed out a handout of an overview of the
major legislative issues that were deliberated this past year that impacted
municipalities.He also gave out a handout summarizing all the bills that
were enacted that could have any sort of municipal impact.The general
effective date for bills passed in 2005 was August 12,2005,unless specified
otherwise.In addition,he handed out three one -page fact sheets regarding
bills passed that will probably have the most implementation challenges.He
commented on more people being elected to the legislature that have a more
anti -municipal sentiment,state -shared revenues,limiting the ability to
negotiate cable license agreements,local tax incentives,county island
legislation,condemnation of property,development fees,and blue stake
reform.
Vice Mayor Eck asked who brought the blue stake reform up.
Mr.Kevin Adam stated the stakeholder group was essentially the contractors.
the excavators and the utilities.
Vice Mayor Eck asked if they are willing to do the laterals from the homes,
specifically Southwest Gas.
Mr.Kevin Adam stated because of the safety implications,they already mark
their own lines.The marking is limited to the right-of-way,not private
property.
Vice Mayor Eck commented if they are talking laterals,they have to go on
private property.
Mr.Kevin Adam stated they are only marking where the laterals are on the
street.The marking requirement does not apply on private property.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 3 OF 38
Vice Mayor Eck commented this seems to be a legislative trend.So many of the
legislators are former mayors or council members.I t appears there is a
different philosophy once they get downtown.He does not understand why
things are turned into towns and cities versus them.He asked if they have
incredible plans proposed to take the place of things,such as the tax
incentive issue,or if they are just against towns and cities.
Mr.Kevin Adam stated that is a complex question.He thinks there are a lot
of things in play.While i t is true there are a lot of former mayors and
council members in the legislature that introduce anti -city legislation within
2 years of getting elected to that body,i t is also true there are many former
locally elected officials who continue to be very supportive of cities and
towns.
Vice Mayor Eck commented one of them that represents our area asked that we
stay in contact with them,to let them know the city's needs.He thinks they
are doing that.He thinks they need to go to the next level this next term
and really let them know our feelings,and they need to let those who are
doing the job for them know that they are being appreciated.
Mr.Kevin Adam stated they need to stay engaged with the legislators.The
more they understand and recognize the impact of the bills they are
introducing on a city's ability to provide the services to the public the
better.
Vice Mayor Eck commented he is not criticizing them,but something does
change.One of the comments made to him about the cable issue was that the
legislature was told that it would be better for the little guy.
Mr.Kevin Adam stated it would take a lot of creativity to twist the cable
legislation to be on behalf of the little guy business.The cable industry
continues to generate profits.They are under a lot of criticism at the
federal level.They are hoping that a reform at the federal level will not
necessarily be bad.When they provided deregulation to the industry in 1996,
it was supposedly for the benefit of the consumer;the rates were supposed to
be lowered.That has not happened.The rates have not gone down and the
profits have soared.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 4 OF 38
Vice Mayor Eck commented they are now in the telephone business.He commented
the only telephone companies not regulated by the Arizona Corporation
Commission are cable.
Mr.Kevin Adam stated that is another interesting point.They decided i t
would not be in their best interest to be regulated by the Arizona Corporation
Commission.and that gives the cities the ability to negotiate at the local
level.
Vice Mayor Eck commented he would be staying on top of this more.He thanked
him for his time and information.
Mayor Coleman commented he believes this falls back to the Jack DeBolske
theory of government levels.They are okay on the city council,but when they
are elected to the state level the cities are the ones that have to be guided
and taken care of.States are against federal mandates,but state mandates to
the cities are okay.
CALL TO THE PUBLIC
Mrs.Tess Nesser,1511 S.Cactus,Apache Junction,addressed the council with
a reminder that this Saturday is the Apache Junction Boys and Girls Club 13th
Annual Corwin Brundrett Bowl-A-Thon.The lanes have all been sold and the
teams are full.She commented she had raffle tickets for a computer and
information on the event.She would give a free raffle ticket for a donation.
Mrs.Sandie Smith.Pinal County Supervisor,575 N.Idaho,Apache Junction,
addressed the council regarding a referendum they are attempting to get on the
ballot for 2006.It will preserve a lot of the foothills in the
Superstitions.It will also allow State Land to give land for right-of-way
for roads if it is value-added.They are working to build teams to go out and
get the signatures.She commented that while she is dealing daily with
citizen concerns,she frequently talks to city staff.She commended the
assistance she has gotten from the council,city manager,assistant city
manager,city clerk,city attorney,public works director,code compliance,
planning and development,especially Rudy Esquivias.the planning and zoning
commission,city engineer,economic development specialist,parks and
recreation director,library,chief of police,and the receptionists.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 5 OF 38
Mr.Russ Speck,1107 N.Gold,Apache Junction,filled out a request to speak
form but declined to speak.
Ms.Patricia Beasley,1428 W.Greasewood,Apache Junction.addressed the
council regarding the blockage of the natural flow of water by the home at
1289 W.Roundup.She passed out some handouts.Two waterways have been
blocked by the property at 1289 W.Roundup,and that is affecting the people
on Roundup,Ironwood,Gold and on Greasewood.She does not know what can be
done,but they have been going through this since 1996.Doug Dobson has come
out and walked it out with her.Councilmember Severs came out and walked
through 2 feet of water.Under state law,i t is illegal to fill in a wash and
cause an adjacent property owner a problem that he would not have had had the
wash not been covered.The subject property was raised 5 feet:a mobile home
was brought in on July 4 when all the public offices were closed.Something
has to be done.She cannot get out of her driveway.She is bordered by Gold
and Greasewood.There is 2 feet of water that rages and the intersection at
Gold and Greasewood is totally flooded.She commented Mr.Speck is affected
by part of the wash that has been blocked off but the water is trying to seek
its way back through there.It is undermining his shed.The Specks have
spent $7,000 trying to get the yard in order.The property used to belong to
the Hughes':it was a lovely piece of property but i t is being destroyed by
the problems the homeowner at 1289 W.Roundup has caused.
Ms.Patricia Bricker,767 N.Thunderbird Drive,Apache Junction,addressed the
council regarding flooding and road improvement.She gave them some copies of
letters.She moved to her current location in 1975 and never had a problem
with flooding.A wash came across the desert through her backyard and down
her driveway to the natural wash.They started having more problems when La
Siesta Mobile Home Park was built.The churches and drainage were then built
that were supposed to take care of the problem.It caused more problems
instead.They met with the city about 13 years ago and were told a natural
wash could not be blocked.When the city was doing the road,they ran out of
money so they could not peak the road.Everyone on their corner,three houses
on each side,got flooded out.They were told they could put rolled block
along their fence line to help divert the water down the street to the natural
wash.That helped,but then the city widened the road.Nothing was said
about the road being raised.City Engineer Boucher told them they would have
no more problems with flooding as drainage was being put in along the
sidewalks.They did not put any in between Thunderbird and Rennick.When i t
rains,the sidewalk cannot even be seen.She used to have a 5'fence:i t is
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 6 OF 38
now 4'.People walking along the sidewalk throw garbage in her yard.When i t
rains,i t floods.She has a canyon developing in front of her driveway and
she cannot go in or out from it,nor can the people across the street or the
mail carrier.I t is a foot deep by the mailboxes.She went down to the city
engineer 3 times;they finally came out Monday and packed it with dirt in
front of her driveway.She hopes that is a temporary fix as it will not stay.
When i t rains,it will be washed out.When the city redid the road and bought
the corner of her property,they reinstalled her berm.She no longer has a
berm as it has been washed away.She would like to have the city put her berm
back and fix the canyon in front of her driveway and across the street.She
would also like to have a 5'fence back so people cannot throw things in her
yard as easily.
Mrs.Syliva Speck,1107 N.Gold,Apache Junction,filled out a form but
declined to speak.
Ms.Mary DeHaan,1292 W.Greasewood,Apache Junction,addressed the council
about dogs running loose.These dogs run loose in the morning hours and the
evening hours.She stated there are leash laws here.On July 24 she walked
out her front door with her Cairn Terrier on a leash and it was attacked by a
loose Huskie.This was in her yard in front of her house.On August 3 her
daughter's cat was attacked on the front porch by 2 dogs running loose.It
was torn to pieces.They have called both times and been told that the police
department takes care of it in the morning.Animal Control is not there until
9 a.m.She talked to a lot of people.She finally talked to Sergeant Elkins
who told her what the problem was.She thinks something needs to be done
about it.She goes walking in the morning and she should not have to carry a
gun.She should be able to walk without worrying about being attacked by a
dog.She understands that no money was allocated for someone to do this job
in the early morning hours,but in any city one should be protected against
these things 24 hours a day.I t should not be just from 9 a.m.to 4 p.m.
Mr.Dewayne Willingham,782 S.Grand Drive,Apache Junction,addressed the
council regarding hiring more people for Animal Control.On 3 different
occasions his wife and child have been attacked by pit bulls on his street.
He has been attacked one time.He talked to the owner and explained that i f
his dog comes after him he will have to shoot the dog.He is a dog lover and
does not want to have to do that.The dogs run loose in the morning and enter
his yard,urinating on his fence,and getting his dogs riled up.The police
have responded to his calls on 3 different occasions.Reports have been
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 7 OF 38
written on these people and nothing has been done about it.Today he was in
court with the young woman who owns the dog that attacked his wife and child
the previous week.He was told by Animal Control that they do not have enough
people;an officer has been bit and is out injured,which leaves them with
only 2 people to operate the pound.He suggested they hire more people.Once
his wife and child are mauled by one of these dogs,it will be a totally
different story.He is not threatening them,but he loves his family.He
does not want to see something happen to them when it can be resolved by
hiring someone to patrol the streets in the morning and late at night.His
five -year -old is his only child and he will do anything to protect her.
Councilmember Severs suggested they look into the possibility of volunteer
work at the pound or some part-time workers.He has heard of a number of
situations where before and after hours there is no one to call.He added
that he did walk the area with the flooding situation.He has heard several
comments where this is a civil suit between people.Others are saying i t is
up to the city since the city allowed it to happen.He would like to know
what the city is responsible for and what the citizens are responsible for.
Vice Mayor Eck asked if both items needed to come back as agenda items.
City Manager George Hoffman stated he believed they could work on the Animal
Control issue at the administrative level.
Vice Mayor Eck requested that the flooding issue be placed on the agenda.
City Attorney Joel Stern stated he could provide legal advice on either
subject,but he believed it would be more appropriate in executive session
Vice Mayor Eck asked if they needed an agenda item on the Animal Control issue
in order to get an update and see where they are.
City Manager George Hoffman stated they would do whatever his preference is.
Councilmember Severs requested i t be put on a future agenda.He asked i f
there is any way in the budget they can find money to hire an additional
person.I t seems to be needed.
City Manager George Hoffman stated i t is in the budget.I t is unfunded in the
event that they could find revenues to support the position.They are hoping
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 8 OF 38
to find additional revenues and they are working on how those revenues might
be developed.He is not sure i t is in the current budget revenue stream,but
if they can augment that revenue stream,the positions are there to be filled.
He suggested the focus should be on developing those revenue streams to
support those positions.
Vice Mayor Eck requested the speakers leave their names and telephone numbers
as some of the council will be calling them to discuss the issue.
Mayor Coleman suggested both items be put on a work session so that they can
be talked about.He also suggested they might be able to make more efficient
use of the hours that they have for coverage.
City Manager George Hoffman stated he thinks i t is because they are lean on
staff.The gentleman summarized it very well;there are 2 officers,an in-
house person and one of the officers got a dog bite in the field.
City Attorney Joel Stern reminded them they could not have discussion on these
items as they are not on the agenda.
Councilmember Insalaco asked if there was anyway they could find out where the
people who own these dogs live and get them into court.He asked if there was
anything that could be done because of the leash law to make these people
responsible for their dogs running loose.
Mayor Coleman stated they could also discuss that during the work session
agenda item.
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
City Manager George Hoffman commented it was wonderful to hear Supervisor
Smith echo his thanks to Kathy Connelly.He stated Kathy Connelly has been
recognized by the City Clerk's Association for 25 years of service as a
municipal clerk.He thinks i t is fantastic that she has been recognized by
her peers as well.He added the city is losing Assistant Planner Noel
Griemsmann to one of the premier planning organizations in the state.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
ORDINANCE NO.1239,CASE AM -1-05,ZONING
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 9 OF 38
ORDINANCE TEXT AMENDMENT TO MODIFY SECTION
6.0128 WHICH REGULATES SWIMMING POOLS
)Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
briefed the council on the item.He stated they looked at what other
communities are doing.Currently the city setback is 7',others have 4'and
3'setbacks.The reasons for the differences are the smaller yards and more
things around the pools.The old setbacks do not apply as well with a lot of
today's development.Another factor is pool equipment noise with the lots
getting smaller.Currently there are no standards in the city for pool pump
placement.People try to keep it as far away from their home as possible,
which then exposes the neighbors to some of that noise.There are a lot of
different lot sizes,unique lot situations,and different types of homes.The
most flexibility in placement of the equipment,ease of uniform application,
and looking at the enforcement angle for pool regulations were taken into
consideration.They have a hybrid solution to the noise impact.They have a
sound deadening wall as i t is easier to enforce.There is one inspection to
make sure that i t has been installed by the time the pool has been
constructed.The likelihood of someone taking it down is a lot less.This
avoids a resolution of the problem after the fact.Other communities have had
to look at the actual decibel level coming off of the equipment at the
property line.That would require additional staff,training resources,and
specialized equipment.The design of the wall will maximize noise reduction.
They also looked at fountains and water features,which currently have no
regulations.The standards provide clarity for staff and the applicants.The
water resources element of the general plan calls for a drought response plan
development.As that is still on the way,they looked at a drought emergency
clause.It basically states that when there is a drought situation,fountains
and water features cannot be utilized.Staff recommends a 3'setback for
single-family home development,with the multi -family and commercial uses
remaining the current standard.Planning and zoning recommended approval on
June 28,2005.
Councilmember Sippel asked if there
was anything in there about wrought iron fencing around pools.
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated there are regulations in the city code that address the enclosure
requirements.The ordinance will add a clarification clause into the zoning
ordinance.Anyone reading the zoning ordinance will then be aware that there
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 10 OF 38
is additional information in the city code.This would allow it to be
modified without going back into the zoning ordinance.
Vice Mayor Eck asked if the sound
barrier is permanent or can they build a shell that sits over their equipment.
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated the language is written to require the equipment to be enclosed by a
block wall.It would be a permanent structure.One would not want a lid or
top to it according to the building official due to safety concerns.The
block wall would minimize the attempt for future removal.
Vice Mayor Eck asked if the shell
would meet the requirements for sound and if the resident could keep that
instead of building the sound wall.He also understood that we are a little
ahead of other communities in addressing the noise issue.He does think that
that there are cases where they could construct a shell and have access
through the shell to the equipment.
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated he did not encounter anything like that in his research,so far as an
office shell design.If they come across i t in the future,they could always
add an additional clause or add i t at this point.He is concerned,however,
that they have not encountered that equipment previously.
Vice Mayor Eck commented they could
put in language that i t needs to be approved administratively.
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated it would be in the zoning ordinance.The applicant and their site plan
will illustrate their sound deadening wall on the site plan;at the time the
building official is out to inspect the pool before i t is final they will make
sure that i t is in place.
Vice Mayor Eck commented some
language could be added that something could be approved by the building
inspector.
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated they could do that.The language would be something under subsection D
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 11 OF 38
that would allow the building official to do that,if an applicant can
document that i t is similar.Another option may be to add language to the
swimming pool equipment requirements to provide for that at the discretion of
the building official,stating other solutions or enclosures can be considered
by the building official if in his determination i t provides the same level of
sound reduction.
Vice Mayor Eck commented he was just
concerned about how hard it would be to make changes in the future should
something come up..
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated they could do another text amendment if it became an issue in the
future.It would be basically one line.
Vice Mayor Eck commented he would
rather do that then rush something through here.
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated an applicant could also request that the Board of Adjustment interpret
that section if there is some confusion.
Mayor Coleman opened the public
hearing on the item.
Mr.Conrad Pisinski,1069 W.14th
Avenue,Apache Junction.addressed the council.He commented a shell would be
no good because it would retain all the heat which would damage the pumps and
their seals.
Vice Mayor Eck commented it would
only be something with proper air ventilation.It would have a shell top and
an opening on the side.
Mr.Conrad Pisinski stated it would
be put in the corner.He had them come out to see how he had placed his.It
is in the corner with a wall around it and when he started i t up,you could
hardly hear it.It does not bother his neighbors as i t is as far away from
their homes as i t is from his.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 12 OF 38
Vice Mayor Eck commented i t is not
something they will change at this time and it would probably take a builder
to come up with something.I t is not his suggestion.
Mr.Conrad Pisinski stated the best
thing is to build walls around it;that soundproofs i t as much as possible and
gives them access as needed.
Councilmember Sippel asked if his
was L-shaped.
Mr.Conrad Pisinski stated that is
correct.The entranceway is behind the wall and the wall is stuccoed,which
also helps the soundproofing.
Mr.Howard Benyas,410 S.Lawson,
Apache Junction,addressed the council.He commented he read the ordinance in
the paper and suggested the city seal be put above i t as i t is easy to miss
with no seal above it.He commented the pool setbacks are okay and there is
no problem with the location of the pool unless it can be seen from the road.
If it is on a corner,i t could be seen from one or both roads.If the pool is
fenced in a safe manner,i t is no more of an attractive nuisance when people
are splashing around behind the wall and the kids are throwing wet stuff in
the air.I t is as much of an attractive nuisance as if the wall was not
there.He asked why they would have to put a wall up i f i t is safely fenced.
He also does not understand why this applies to construction of a temporary
above ground pool.They are not permanent;if they are an eyesore,the kids
will puncture it and it will be taken down and put in the trash.He thinks
they have gone too far with the ordinance.
Vice Mayor Eck asked if he was
comparing a blowup above ground pool to a permanent pool.
Mr.Howard Benyas stated his first
point was about the permanent pool.
Councilmember Severs stated the wall
they are talking about is only around the equipment that is creating the
noise.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 13 OF 38
Mr.Howard Benyas stated the
ordinance states that swimming pools should not be visible from any public
right-of-way.I t seems crazy for a person who has a large lot,such as an
acre -and -a -quarter,that places a pool off to the side of the house and they
are told they have to put a 6'wall up.However,he might have misunderstood
what was in the paper.His second point was about the above ground pool:i t
is a pool that is over 18"deep.I t is for swimming but i f it can be seen
from the street,they cannot blow it up and let the kids play in it.
Councilmember Severs apologized as
he thought it was only for the equipment;he did not realize they also had i t
in there for the pool itself.
Mayor Coleman closed the public
hearing with no one else wishing to speak and reopened the item to council
discussion.
Assistant Planner Noel Grimesmann
stated under the current regulations anything over 18"in depth has to meet
the safety requirements.There is no differentiation in the code between
permanent and above ground pools.As far as not being visible,it could also
be landscaping instead of a 6'wall.The body of water cannot be visible from
the roadway.They could also accomplish it with a berm if it was high enough.
Pools tend to be at ground level so it should be fairly easy to block them
from view.
Vice Mayor Eck commented they could
have the wrought iron safety fence,but aesthetically they need some type of
vegetation.
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated i t is not for aesthetics.If the first two rows are block with wrought
iron above it,when standing on the property line the pool would not be
noticed because the elevation change is enough as the pool is flat.I t is to
prevent making the pool more attractive to minors visually.
Councilmember Sippel commented some
friends of his have a 4'to 5'block fence with about 2'of wrought iron above
the block.They are next to a wash and as kids go by they see the pool and
throw rocks into it.They have also climbed over the fence into the pool.He
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 14 OF 38
looks at it as a parent with a young child,but teenage kids walk by and see
the pool and there could be some vandalism or they could be in the pool
messing around.They could call the police department to have them take care
of it.He could go either way on the issue.
Councilmember Severs stated he
agrees with child safety.A kid is attracted to water and will go play in it,
but there are a lot of lots in the community that set lower than the streets,
and they are on corner lots with easements and walkways.There are too many
of them for the city to say they would have to put a wall up.
Mayor Coleman commented there is a
section that states the requirement shall not apply in situations where the
adjacent public right-of-way is higher than the pool's edge and not greater
than 20 feet:screening would be difficult or ineffective as determined by the
zoning administrator.
Councilmember Dietz commented he has
an acre -and -a quarter with a chain link fence around i t and a 4'x 20'above
ground pool.No matter where he puts the pool on his land,it will be
visible.He is also on a corner lot.
There was general discussion that he
would be exempt.
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated that would be an example of an above ground pool on a corner lot with
an adjacent grade where there would be a legitimate exemption.
Mayor Coleman commented it would be
like the pool going up Idaho:they have no way to screen it.
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated that is correct.There are going to be situations where it will not be
possible.The intent is to be as flexible as possible.If the applicant
comes in with a legitimate reason why it would not work,it can be waived.
They are trying to encourage as much reduction in the nuisance issue as
possible.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 15 OF 38
Councilmember Sippel stated they
have the exemptions in there and there is flexibility to get things waived
Councilmember Waldron commented i t
does not make sense to him to require someone to construct a fence on an acre-
and -a -quarter lot that has a pool 40'to 50'back from the street.A kid will
not wander that distance to throw stuff into the pool.He believes if the
pool is back a certain distance on larger lots that they should be exempted.
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated he tended to agree with him on that but they were trying to keep
uniformity throughout the different lots.They are trying to avoid the
situation of someone calling up to ask about pool regulations and they need to
determine the lot size and zoning district and possibly getting the wrong
information.The larger lots have pools typically put at the back of the
home;they can do simple berming,landscaping or shrubs to accomplish what is
needed.The body of water needs to be fairly screened.
Councilmember Waldron stated if they
have that large lot with a pool 40'to 60'back,a person is not going to walk
back there.He does not feel they should have to construct a fence 50'from
the road.
Councilmember Sippel commented some
of the screening things mentioned were a 2'block wall with wrought iron on
top.Wrought iron needs to be around the pool anyway.
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated they could just add dirt from the excavation.
Councilmember Sippel stated they
could add the fence to that.
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated it could even be oleanders.It is not specifically a structural
solution;it can be vegetation.
Councilmember Sippel commented he
believes they are getting caught up in the block wall being put up.It does
not have to be put up.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 16 OF 38
stated that is correct.
could put up 5 oleanders.
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
Councilmember Sippel stated one
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated that is correct;as long as it creates a screen effect.
Vice Mayor Eck asked if they need a
pool fence if they have an exterior fence.
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated the building code provides for different solutions.If there is a
fenced parcel with the pool in the back,there must be specific types of locks
on the windows to prevent access.They would not have to have an additional
safety fence for the pool.
Vice Mayor Eck stated he cannot
imagine there not being a fence.He is not sure he understands Councilmember
Waldron's concern.
fence is required around a pool.
stated i t is.
fence could be 2 miles away.
stated that is correct.
Councilmember Waldron asked if a
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
Councilmember Waldron commented the
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
Councilmember Waldron asked if a
person on an acre -and -a -quarter lot had a barbed wire fence would be okay,i f
the fence were allowed.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 17 OF 38
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated as long as i t meets the particular requirements of the building code.
There are some height requirements.
Councilmember Waldron commented the
fence could be surrounding the property with the pool built back 50'and i t
would be okay;another fence would not have to be built around the pool.
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated that is correct.It would depend on the lot distances,lot setbacks,
vertical horizon and excavation of the pool,providing a 2'berm or something;
they would not have to build something new but they would have to look at some
solution for reducing the visual attractiveness of someone walking by.It
would depend on where they put the pool.Natural vegetation on larger lots,
if it has not been bladed,would provide most of the screening.They may not
have to do anything else.
Councilmember Waldron commented that
is i t not addressed in this.
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated i t is.The screening requirement can be met through vegetation,
berming,and through a structural solution by putting it behind the home.I t
is a broad brush and provides for the zoning administrator to look at a
particular site and see that i t is not possible,and a waiver would be done at
the counter.
Councilmember Waldron commented i t
states the swimming pool shall not be visible.He asked if a portion of it
could be visible.This is asking for total screening.Vegetation does not do
that.Total screening is called for in 6.0128.1.C.
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
commented he could see his point with the verbiage.
City Attorney Joel Stern stated
there appear to be some issues tonight.He recommended continuing this item
so that they would not do the wrong thing by constructing language this
evening.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 18 OF 38
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated he agreed with Councilmember Waldron on the verbiage of shall.The
modifier should be looked at.
Councilmember Sippel asked that they
look at the verbiage that Vice Mayor Eck talked about also.
Vice Mayor Eck commented he thinks
the ordinance is very close but it would be nice to have everything proper.
Councilmember Severs commented he
would like to look at the area where i t states the pool has to be in the rear
yard behind the main building.There are a lot of lots in the community where
the house is at the back of the property.As long as it meets the setbacks,
has the safety fence constructed around it,and is not a hazard,i t should be
allowed.He does not think that visibility from the street is more important
than safety.
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
asked if the council would like the distinction between the large lot and the
small lot.Staff tried to focus on keeping it one regulation that was
applicable to the entire community.It could be broken into separate zonings.
There are drawbacks and advantages.
Councilmember Severs commented they
specified CR-1,CR-2 and CR-3 zones:he does not see R-143.He thinks having
the large and small lots separate would be better.
Councilmember Sippel asked
Councimember Severs how he would determine a large lot.
Mayor Coleman commented he does not
see them solving this tonight.Most people put a fence around their pool for
privacy.He would want a fence around i t if he had one.He believes they are
only talking about a few instances where something might happen.He does not
see the screening requirement a being major issue.He suggested they continue
this.He asked if the language was common in other municipalities.
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated some if it is.The screening is,but the pool equipment part was
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 19 OF 38
created by staff.It can be modified.He wants to be certain the council is
okay with doing the two -tiered approach.
Vice Mayor Eck commented that can be
resolved during the discussion.
Mayor Coleman commented the examples
with larger lots all have fences around them.
Councilmember Sippel commented the
larger lots have brick around them to interpret what is their backyard.
City Attorney Joel Stern suggested
they have the building official at the next meeting to discuss what the code
requires.If this is continued,they may want to do i t to a date certain so
that it does not have to be advertised again.If they just want to do a work
session,they can readvertise it.
There was general discussion on when
to bring the item back.
Mayor Coleman closed the discussion
with no further comments and called for a motion.
Vice Mayor Eck MOVED THAT ORDINANCE
NO.1239 BE CONTINUED TO THE WORK SESSION ON SEPTEMBER 19TH AND THE PUBLIC
HEARING ON THE FOLLOWING NIGHT.SEPTEMBER 20TH.
Councilmember Insalaco SECONDED THE
MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
Mayor Coleman called for a ten
minute break.
Mayor Coleman reconvened the
meeting.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16.2005
PAGE 20 OF 38
ORDINANCE NO.1239.CASE PZ-9-05.CITY-
INITIATED REZONING OF 9 LOTS OF THE
SMYTHE'S COUNTY LINE SUBDIVISION FROM
GR TO CR-3
)Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
briefed the council on the item.He stated this is on Smythe Drive along the
western boundary.The subdivision was platted in 1957.It was zoned general
rural.There are lots substandard to the general rural zoning.There are
small lots that qualify for an exemption under our ordinance because they pre-
existed the existing ordinance.The typical GR zoning allows accessory
buildings up to 5,000 sq.ft.As the lots get smaller,that calculation
decreases down to a low of 1,000 sq.ft.which can become problematic for large
garages.There are two manufactured homes on the lots;the remainder are
conventional.The general plan applies as the desired application applies to
all properties.The CR-3 zoning is more consistent with other lots of similar
size.There has been extensive citizen review on this item,including
newspaper advertising,300'mailing and additional letters the planning and
zoning commission desired.Five property owners responded;one requested MH
zoning and the remainder where in support of the CR-3 zoning.Other similar
subdivisions in the mid -1980's with MH have switched to conventional as the
homes were replaced.The planning and zoning commission decided to go for
approval with the CR-3 designation.They would like to phase out the last two
that are on the properties.They would be pre-existing legal nonconformities
that would stay as is where is until such time as they are replaced.The
commission was unanimous for approval.
Councilmember Sippel asked if the
two manufactured homes must be replaced with site -built if they are pulled
off.
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated that is correct.
Vice Mayor Eck asked what two lots
those are.He then found them on the map provided.
Councilmember Sippel asked if the
properties on the other side of the street are conventional homes.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 21 OF 38
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated there is a mix.The overall neighborhood has some TH south of
Broadway.and there is a conventional/manufactured mix all throughout this
area.
Mayor Coleman commented that there
are businesses all along Meridian there.
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated that is correct.
Councilmember Severs asked if there
was any way the manufactured homes could be replaced.
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated the council could add an MH designation.
Councilmember Severs asked if there
was a fire they would have to replace it with a stick built home.
are businesses all along Meridian there.
stated that is correct.
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated they would if the damage exceeds 50% of the replacement value.As the
home value decreases over time,that number becomes smaller.
could take it off to put on a better one.
stated they cannot.
Councilmember Severs asked if they
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
Vice Mayor Eck commented one of the
manufactured homeowners was for the new designation and one was not.
Assistant Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated that is correct.The owner of the manufactured home at the end of the
row is in support of the CR-3 designation.They want to see the mobile homes
phased out.
Mayor Coleman opened the public
hearing on the item.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 22 OF 38
Mr.Craig Okatani,620 S.Smythe
Drive.Apache Junction,addressed the council.He owns 3 of the 9 lots being
affected by the rezoning.He agrees with the rezoning.He has lived here
over 12 years.One of the homes across the street was a mobile home and has
since been removed with a stick built house erected and sold.I t is making
the neighborhood better.The old zoning includes farming,slaughtering of
small animals,keeping horses,museums,libraries,hospitals,sanitoriums.
farm labor,carnivals and fairs.They have some farm animals.They cannot
get rid of the ones currently there,but with the new zoning they could not
get any more.He does not like goats and chickens running around the
neighborhood.He also had a signed document from an adjoining neighbor at 692
S.Smythe that agrees to the new zoning.He talked to the vacant lot owner.
Shirley Davies of New Mexico,who also has no objections.He recommended they
go forward with this.
Ms.Heather Martin,650 S.Smythe,
Apache Junction,addressed the council.She agreed with the zoning change.
They have had a goat go through their yard before they put a fence up.A
rooster crows as strange hours.She would like to see i t rezoned to phase out
the mobile homes.The neighborhood looks better with site built homes.
Mayor Coleman closed the public
hearing with no one else wishing to speak.He reopened the item to council
discussion.
Vice Mayor Eck commented he had
driven up this street and i t is one reason why he pulled a mobile home off a
property and is having a site built home constructed there.I t is a wonderful
thing.As there is only one that is affected here,he can support this.He
would much rather proactively go into an area and have the buy in of the
property owners.If they were to do this in areas where there is a majority
of mobile homes,it would be difficult to say they are now nonconforming i f
you have a mobile home and you cannot put a new mobile home in there.In
specific areas this will work,and this is one of them.They have to
cautiously pick and choose those areas.
Mayor Coleman closed the discussion
with no more comments and called for a motion.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 23 OF 38
Councilmember Dietz MOVED THAT
ORDINANCE NO.1238 BE READ BY TITLE ONLY AND THE READING OF THE ENTIRE
ORDINANCE BE WAIVED.
Councilmember Insalaco SECONDED THE
MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly read
the ordinance by title only.
Councilmember Dietz MOVED THAT
ORDINANCE NO.1238,AS READ BY THE CTIY CLERK,BE APPROVED AND ADOPTED.
Councilmember Sippel SECONDED THE
MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
RESOLUTION NO.05-23.EXTINGUISHMENT
CASE EX -2004-04.EXTINGUISHMENT OF
FEDERALLY PATENTED EASEMENTS ON
STAGECOACH ROAD BETWEEN WINDSONG
STREET AND SMOKETREE STREET
)City Engineer Ron Grittman
briefed the council on the item.He stated this encompasses two full blocks.
They look at 3 criteria to recommend approval of an extinguishment.This one
meets all the criteria.There will be no landlocked properties,it will not
be used for a future roadway,and the utility companies have no objections to
the extinguishment.
Mayor Coleman requested the
applicant address the council.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16.2005
PAGE 24 OF 38
Mr.Patrick LeClair,2521 E.
Windsong,Apache Junction,addressed the council.He and his wife made the
request.
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 Severs MOVED THAT
RESOLUTION NO.05-23,A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF APACHE JUNCTION,ARIZONA,DECLARING THAT PORTIONS OF A PUBLIC ROADWAY
EASEMENT LOCATED ON STAGECOACH ROAD BETWEEN WINDSONG STREET AND SMOKETREE ROAD
DESCRIBED IN EXTINGUISHMENT CASE EX -2004-04 IS NO LONGER NECESSARY FOR PUBILC
USE AS A PUBLIC ROADWAY EASEMENT AND IS HEREBY EXTINGUISHED AS A PRESENT OR
FUTURE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY,BE APPROVED.
Councilmember Insalaco SECONDED THE
MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
ORDINANCE NO.1242,AMENDING THE APACHE
JUNCTION CITY CODE,CHAPTER 2 MAYOR AND
COUNCIL,ARTICLE 2-4 COUNCIL PROCEDURE,
SECTION 2-4-6 ORDER OF BUSINESS,
REGARDING TIME ALLOCATIONS FOR CALL TO
THE PUBLIC AND PUBLIC HEARINGS
)City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
briefed the council on the item.She stated council directed staff to do some
research regarding time allocations that other jurisdictions gave to Call to
the Public and public hearings,in addition to where Call to the Public was
placed on the agenda.The information was presented to council on July 18 and
July 19,and council directed staff to bring back a proposal to amend the city
code,changing the time allotted for Call to the Public from 5 minutes to 3
minutes,setting a 5 minute time frame for public hearing speakers subject to
the discretion of the council,and leaving Call to the Public at the beginning
of the agenda.The proposed ordinance makes those changes.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 25 OF 38
Mayor Coleman opened the public
hearing on the item.
Ms.Carol Urich,201 E.Southern,
Apache Junction,addressed the council.She encouraged them to leave it at 5
minutes.I t is usually not the same people who come before the council:i t is
different people each time.The one individual must be on vacation this
summer as we have not seen him around for awhile.She commented she was in
support of having the public hearings at 5 minutes.She stated one of the
council was overheard a couple of weeks ago saying that he thought that Call
to the Public was a waste of time.It is not as they can see from the issues
that came before them tonight.I t is very important.
Mrs.Joyce Benyas,410 S.Lawson,
Apache Junction,addressed the council.She agreed with Ms.Urich:she does
not feel i t should be reduced to 3 minutes.
Mr.Louis Babin,2191 S.Belair,
Apache Junction,addressed the council.He was concerned as to whether or not
there would be a legal problem in having the discretion to cut somebody's time
off.
Councilmember Dietz stated the
discretion is to enable them to extend the time.
Mr.Louis Babin stated that was
okay.He believes 5 minutes is better than 3 minutes.More is better than
less and they only have a few people who go on and on.
Ms.Tess Nesser,1511 S.Cactus
Road,Apache Junction,addressed the council.She stated she did not have an
opinion on whether i t should be 5 minutes or 3 minutes.However,she believes
the placement of Call to the Public should be left at the beginning instead of
at the end.There have been too many times where people have things to say,
including her when she is trying to sell raffle tickets,and they cannot do so
if no one is here as they have already left.I t should be left at the front
so that there are people here to hear what is being said.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 26 OF 38
Mayor Coleman closed the public
hearing with no one else wishing to speak.He reopened the item to council
discussion.
Councilmember Waldron commented that
at Maricopa Association of Governments they talked about this.The compelling
argument was that if there was sufficient information to go 5 minutes,then
that is more information than an individual can process.He believes 3
minutes is sufficient.Some people handed in some information tonight that
gives the council the opportunity to review the material and allows them to
make a direction to staff.He believes 3 minutes is sufficient and people
should be encouraged to turn in a document so that they do not have to listen,
try to absorb i t all,and then try to decide what to do.This would give them
something to look at to help them with their decision.
Councilmember Dietz agreed.He
added the new ordinance lets the mayor extend this time if needed to a longer
period of time.It is just making the standard time 3 minutes and the mayor
can grant that additional time.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
commented the additional time is for the public hearing only.
Vice Mayor Eck commented he thinks
i t is a fine idea,and he can think of some meetings coming up in the future
where he could support it.However,he has not seen the problem.Another
person who is a regular attendant at the meetings talked to him after a
meeting and asked him where the problem was.He defended i t saying he thought
the problem was coming with the new hall and there being more people here.
There have been more Call to the Publics and i t has taken away from the
structured part of the meeting.However,he has not seen a problem with 5
minutes so far.He personally would like to have all the information for the
item prepared.If that day comes where he sees the difference in the
meetings,he would prefer to take a look at it then.He does not feel i t is a
bad idea,but he does not see where i t needs to be changed at this time.
Councilmember Severs agreed with
Vice Mayor Eck.He stated this is the point where our citizens can express
their opinions and feelings.Three minutes is enough for the majority of
those people,but to limit them is not doing them justice.Our time is
important,and the organized issues the council needs to look at are
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 27 OF 38
important,but so are the citizens concerns.He thought it would be fine to
keep it where i t is.He has no problem with i t so far.I f it becomes a
problem when Elliott comes back,then they can deal with it then.For the
general public,he feels i t is fine the way i t is.
Councilmember Waldron commented i t
is not intended to cut off anyone voicing their opinion or anything else.
That is not the intent.His argument is that i t is nice to get a piece of
paper and be able to visualize or read what the problem is as opposed to
trying to process it when someone is talking about it.He believes i t is a
good idea as i t encourages the documentation.It would be nice to get the
information beforehand,but that does not always happen.I t is not designed
to cut off anyone's right to speak.They have every right to do that.I t is
just a reduction in time;i t is not a big deal.
Councilmember Severs commented a lot
of people who come to the meetings do not know how it works and do not have
the knowledge to prepare the documents in advance and give them to the
council.A lot of people come here for the first time.They want to say what
they think and get their point across.They are not public speakers and i t
sometimes takes longer than 3 minutes.It would be great if they could get
across to them that they need to prepare documents,but he does not see that
happening.
Mayor Coleman commented if they were
trying to get rid of public input,there is nothing in state law that requires
them to have a Call to the Public.I t is strictly up to the council.He has
found that most people that go over 3 minutes repeat themselves.He thinks i t
would help them to organize their thoughts better.Some of the ones who get
up to speak on all the items and shoot from the hip;they will still have 5
minutes for the public hearings.He agrees with Councilmember Waldron as far
as being able to process for that long.He does like having Call to the
Public at the beginning of the agenda because it does give people an
opportunity to talk on the items further down on the agenda that are not
public hearings.If it was at the end,it would be after those items.He
thinks as they start to deal with larger issues,and it may not be that much
of a problem right now,they will want people to have their thoughts organized
and be a little more concise with them.He could see the problem if they were
moving the time allowed from 5 minutes to 1 minute or 2 minutes,but not to 3
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 28 OF 38
minutes.Most of the time,in his experience,they begin to repeat
themselves,as he just did.
Councilmember Severs suggested
reducing it to 3 minutes in 3 months or 6 months.It would give them time to
inform and teach the people that they need documentation,drawings,pictures.
and to have their thoughts organized when they come up.Right now a lot of
people do not know that and they do not know they need to bring in everything.
They should and it would be more helpful,but he requested they do it in 6
months.
Councilmember Sippel asked if there
is something on the Call to the Public form that states they are limited to 3
minutes and they should organize their thoughts.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly stated
they are close to running out of the old Call to the Public forms and have
intentionally not ordered new ones as she was planning to put that information
on there.
Councilmember Sippel stated they
have been talking about this issue for a couple months already.They would
not know ahead of time if it is their first time coming,but they would be
able to read that and know they need to organize their thoughts.The second
thing is what Councilmember Waldron said,quality versus quantity.They are
talking about losing two minutes,but someone can organize their thoughts more
and say more in three minutes and not just get up there and start to repeat
themselves.They are not talking about one individual or even a half dozen.
This is in general.This is proactive because as we grow there will be huge
issues that they will deal with regarding land and zoning and other things.
I t is a big issue to them when they bring i t in at that time,but things will
get busier in the future so they should deal with this issue now and move i t
forward.
Councilmember Insalaco commented
there are a lot of the citizens that think they do things behind closed doors
and that we try to cut them off.During Call to the Public,a lot of these
people are upset.I t is hard to keep your thoughts in line when you have a
problem and you are trying to get it across to people,so it gets repeated.
He would hate to take away two minutes for the matter of timing when the
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 29 OF 38
council sits up here and babbles themselves.He thinks i t is a mistake and
the public will take it the wrong way,even though the council knows what i t
is doing to cut the time down.He believes it will be seen wrong by the
public.
Councilmember Dietz commented they
might be able to educate the community if the press writes about this change
in the papers.They could bring up the fact that they need to be organized,
prepared and have their thoughts together.They can prepare things to hand
out to the council as they speak.
Councilmember Severs commented they
might print a request to speak form in the paper some time as a sample of what
they need to do at Call to the Public.
Councilmember Dietz commented a lot
of people do not understand that they can hand things out.
Vice Mayor Eck commented again that
he does not see a problem with what they currently have.The research is
important and he is aware that the majority of the organizations do 3 minutes.
If they were going after people they did not want to have speak,they would
change the location of Call to the Public.He will support i t at this time,
but,if after so many meetings there are people being robbed of time,he would
probably suggest they revisit it.He agreed with Councilmember Insalaco in
that people come in here upset and are here for the first time and they need
that time.
Mayor Coleman commented i t is
unpleasant to cut people off when they go over the five minutes.
City Attorney Joel Stern stated the
ordinance is currently drafted with 3 minutes for Call to the Public and 5
minutes for public hearings.In both sections the mayor will have the option
to grant additional time.He read both sections and determined that in the
Call to the Public section the additional time could be granted by the
council.He suggested they change that to the mayor.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16.2005
PAGE 30 OF 38
Councilmember Severs commented that
if it was left as the council any of them could have the choice if they wanted
to hear more.
City Attorney Joel Stern stated that
is one interpretation.Another would be that they would have to vote on it.
As that is not on the agenda,i t should probably be the mayor.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly stated
that language is exactly as i t appears in the current city code with the
exception of going from 5 to 3 minutes.If someone got up right now and spoke
for 5 minutes.they could be allowed to go longer.The question is what does
the word council mean:does it mean everybody or a member.It does not say a
member,which to her means the collective body.
City Attorney Joel Stern agreed.
There was general discussion on
changing it to read the mayor instead of the council.
Councilmember Severs asked if they
would request i t from the mayor if they wanted to hear more of what someone
was saying.
Mayor Coleman stated he would if he
wanted all of them to hear it,too.Otherwise,he could talk to him in the
hall after the meeting.
Councilmember Sippel stated they
have done that before in the past when they had issues they wanted to hear
more of.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
commented she believed the attorney was saying that under the open meeting law
they cannot discuss how they would handle that.
City Attorney Joel Stern stated that
is correct.He added the Court of Appeals has very strict timelines.The
reason for that is they want you to organize your thoughts.You get 20
minutes to present your case,including your rebuttal time and including time
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16.2005
PAGE 31 OF 38
where the justices interrupt you.One could say one sentence and then be
answering their questions and have only one minute left to present your case.
It makes you organize your thoughts when you have a strict time limit.
Councilmember Severs commented that
most people would know that when they go to court.
City Attorney Joel Stern stated that
is true,but i t is not the case will all litigants.
Mayor Coleman closed the discussion
with no further comments and called for a motion.
Councilmember Waldron MOVED THAT
ORDINANCE NO.1242 BE READ BY TITLE ONLY 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.
Councilmember Waldron MOVED THAT
ORDINANCE NO.1242,AS READ BY THE CITY CLERK.BE APPROVED AND ADOPTED WITH
THE FOLLOWING AMENDMENTS:THAT UNDER SECTION G.ON LINE 8,THAT THE MAYOR BE
SUBSTITUTED FOR THE WORD COUNCIL.
Councilmember Sippel SECONDED THE
MOTION.
VOTE:4-3 (Vice Mayor Eck,Councilmember Insalaco and Councilmember Severs
voted in opposition.)
The motion carried.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 32 OF 38
OLD BUSINESS
None.
NEW BUSINESS
None.
COUNCIL DIRECTION TO STAFF ON ANY OF THE ABOVE LISTED AGENDA ITEMS
None.
COUNCIL DIRECTION TO STAFF ON OTHER PROPOSED LEGISLATION OR ACTIONS
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT STATE
SPECIAL PROJECTS LOCAL CITIZEN
PARTICIPATION PLAN
)CDBG Administrative Assistant
Melinda Larson briefed the council on the item.She stated the federal
government has provided funding to the community over the last several years
through this program.I t is a competitive grant program that the city is
eligible to participate in annually.The program was established to help
communities address the following objectives:meet the needs of low and
moderate income citizens;prevent or eliminate slums and blight in the
community:and address urgent threats to health and welfare in the community.
The city can use the funds to address one of the national objectives or
address the funds to a nonprofit organization or another governmental agency.
Crucial to the program is the involvement of local citizens and elected
officials.The community must be able to document that citizens and officials
have been given the opportunity to discuss community needs and discuss
possible projects in order to participate in the program and receive funds.
The ultimate decision on the project rests with the elected officials.The
city has used these funds to purchase the mobile command unit and purchase
nine vehicles for five community nonprofit agencies and the police department
victims'services program in the past.The federal government has established
a mandatory public participation process.The plan meets the guidelines as
prescribed by the Arizona Department of Housing.The first public meeting
will be on September 8.Staff is requesting direction to begin implementation
of the plan.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16.2005
PAGE 33 OF 38
Mayor Coleman opened the item to
council discussion.There being no discussion,he called for a motion.
Councilmember Waldron MOVED THAT THE
FOLLOWING DIRECTION BE GIVEN TO STAFF REGARDING COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK
GRANT STATE SPECIAL PROJECTS LOCAL CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN:THAT STAFF
BEGIN IMPLEMENTATION OF THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG)STATE
SPECIAL PROJECTS (SSP)LOCAL CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN (LCPP).
Councilmember Sippel SECONDED THE
MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
CONTINUATION OF RIDE CHOICE PROGRAM
FORMERLY CALLED ENABLING TRANSPORTATION
PROGRAM FOR FISCAL YEAR 2005-06
)City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
briefed the council on the item.They talked last night with Dan Taylor of
Mesa Senior Services.This is now called the Ride Choice program.She
recommended the current level of funding be the same for fiscal year 2005-06,
which is $30,000.She requested they monitor the success rate of the Coupon
for Cabs program which is a complementary program to Ride Choice.If council
recommends going forward with the contract,it will be on the September 6
agenda.
Councilmember Dietz commented they
are requesting $43,000 instead of the $30,000 recommended last time.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly stated
that is correct.
Councilmember Dietz asked for the
reason for the increase:if it was because through May they had spent $33,000.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly stated
they feel that the program could grow,but they did not take into account the
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 34 OF 38
Coupons for Cabs and the impact on it.When Dan Taylor was here last night he
stated he was agreeable to the $30,000.
Mayor Coleman closed the discussion
with no further comments and called for a motion.
Councilmember Waldron MOVED THAT THE
FOLLOWING DIRECTION BE GIVEN TO STAFF REGARDING CONTINUATION OF RIDE CHOICE
PROGRAM FORMERLY CALLED ENABLING TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM ("ET")FOR FY 2005-06:
THAT WE CONTINUE WITH THE CONTRACT,THAT IT BE FUNDED AT THE LEVEL OF $30.000,
AND THAT WE MONITOR THE SUCCESS OF THE COUPONS FOR CABS PROGRAM.
Councilmember Dietz SECONDED THE
MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT WITH APACHE JUNCTION
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FOR FY 2005-06
)City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
briefed the council on the item.She stated this was also discussed last
night.This would continue the visitor center funding with the Chamber of
Commerce.They get in the area of 30,000 visitors per year,all of whom would
be coming here and walking through the city hall complex if they did not have
the Chamber as an alternative.Their location on the highway makes it a much
more physical one and suitable location.They are requesting $40,000.Rayna
Palmer feels they can maintain services at that level.
Councilmember Dietz commented they
have done a great job thus far.
Mayor Coleman closed the discussion
with no further comments and called for a motion.
Councilmember Insalaco MOVED THAT
THE FOLLOWING DIRECTION BE GIVEN TO STAFF REGARDING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 35 OF 38
AGREEMENT FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT WITH APACHE JUNCTION CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
FOR FISCAL YEAR 2005-2006:FOR THE AMOUNT OF $40,000.
Councilmember Dietz SECONDED THE
MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
SELECTION OF MEETING DATES,TIMES,LOCATIONS,AND PURPOSES
Councilmember Dietz stated there
will be no work session held on Monday,September 5,2005,in observance of
Labor Day holiday,and he MOVED THAT AN EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 6:00 P.M.AND A
WORK SESSION AT 6:00 P.M.BE HELD ON TUESDAY,SEPTEMBER 6,2005,IN THE CITY
COUNCIL CONFERENCE ROOM AND CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS,RESPECTIVELY.
Councilmember Sippel SECONDED THE
MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
INFORMATION AND REPORTS
Mayor Coleman announced the Apache Junction High School football team's
preseason ranking is number seven in the state,just ahead of Coronado High
School,which is Councilmember Sippel's alma mater.They are picked to win
their division,which is 4A Division II.They have 20 of 22 starters
returning.They keep telling Coach Ragsdale there is no pressure,but they
are all excited about it down at the school.
Councilmember Sippel commented that Apache Junction has not beaten Coronado in
over 15 years.
ADJOURNMENT
)Mayor Coleman adjourned the
meeting at 9:39 p.m.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 36 OF 38
Consent Agenda Items are as follows:
1.Acceptance of Agenda.
2.Acceptance of Minutes of Special Meeting of June 28,2005.
3.Acceptance of Minutes of Regular Meeting of July 19.2005.
4.Approval of appointment of Deputy City Magistrates and City Magistrates Pro
Tern for two-year terms of office from August 16.2005 through August 15,
2007.
5.Ratification of Street Light Improvement District assessments sent to Pinal
County for FY 2005-06.
6.Approval of vehicle purchase through State Contract for three (3)Crown
Victoria patrol cars for the Police Department and one (1)regular full-
size pickup truck and one (1)Isuzu all-purpose maintenance truck for the
Parks and Recreation Department in an amount not to exceed $112,437.48.
7.Approval of vehicle purchase through State Contract for two (2)regular
full-size pickup trucks,one (1)"hybrid"Ford Escape and one (1)Isuzu
all-purpose maintenance truck for use by the Public Works Department in an
amount not to exceed $85.807.
8.Approval of Resolution No.04-15,Case SD -1-04,a final plat approval
request by Richard Randall for the "Monterey Casitas",a subdivision of an
approximate 2.5 acre CR-3 (Single Family Residence,minimum lot size 7,000
square feet net)parcel located at the southeast corner of Monterey Drive
and 18th Avenue into 10 single-family home lots.
'9.Consideration of Agreement with Arizona Department of Motor Vehicle
Division for electronic data access by Park Rangers and Code Compliance
Officers and authorization for City Manager to sign an appropriate -
agreement subject to approval as to form by the City Attorney.
ACCEPTED THIS 6TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER ,2005,BY THE MAYOR AND
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF APACHE JUNCTION,ARIZONA.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 37 OF 38
SIGNED AND ATTESTED TO THIS 6TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER ,2005.
ATTEST:
KATHLEEN CONNELLY
City Clerk
DOUGLAS CO/EMAN
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 16th day of August,2005.I further certify
that the meeting was duly called and held and that a quorum was present.
Dated this 2nd day of September,2005.
KATHLEEN CONNELLY
City Clerk
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AUGUST 16,2005
PAGE 38 OF 38