HomeMy WebLinkAbout2004-05-04 City Council Regular MinutesCITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
MAY 4,2004
The regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Apache Junction,
Arizona,was held on May 4,2004,at the Apache Junction City Council
Chambers pursuant to the notice required by law.
CALL TO ORDER
Vice Mayor Eck called the meeting to order at 7:.02.p.m.
INVOCATION
Councilmember Milkey gave the Invocation.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Councilmember Dietz led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present:Vice Mayor Eck
Councilmember Dietz
Councilmember Insalaco .
Councilmember Mil key
Councilmember Sippel
Councilmember Waldron
Staff Present:
(Mayor Coleman was absent.)
City Manager George Hoffman
Assistant City Manager.Bryant Powell
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
City Attorney Joel Stern
Interim Public Safety Director Steve Campbell
Development Services Director Rudy Esquivias
Others Present:Associate Planner Noel Griemsmann
Assistant to the City Manager Amy .Malloy
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MAY 4,2004
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Business Advocate Roy Hunt
CDBG Administrative Assistant Melinda Larson
Multi -Media Producer Matt McNulty
ACCEPTANCE OF CONSENT AGENDA
)Councilmember Dietz MOVED THAT
THE CONSENT AGENDA BE ACCEPTED:AND
THAT WE ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF THE COMPREHENSIVE ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT FOR
THE CITY OF APACHE JUNCTION FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30,2003.
Councilmember Waldron SECONDED THE
MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
AWARDS,PRESENTATIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS
CDBG Administrative Assistant Melinda Larson stated in Fiscal Year 2001
Community Development Block Grant Regional Account Funding the city submitted
an application for the expansion of the Food Bank.The contract was awarded
in July 2001 and the project was completed in September 2003.Mayor Coleman
was notified in December 2003 that the city has been nominated to receive an
outstanding CDBG project award for that project.The Central Arizona
Association of Governments made the nomination to the Arizona Department of
Housing.The city was chosen to receive the award during the national CDBG
week awards ceremony held on April 15,2004.Pinal County and the Apache
Junction Reach Out Food Bank were also being recognized because of the
creative partnering that allowed the project to move forward.She presented
the plaque to Vice Mayor Eck.
CALL TO THE PUBLIC
Mrs.Sharon Diehl,653 S.Palo Verde,Apache Junction,addressed the council
regarding the council pay raise.She believes i t has been too long for them
to have gone without a pay raise.Most of them already work one job and this
is a second job.She believes a pay raise is necessary,whether i t be right
now or after the next election.
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MAY 4,2004
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Ms.Tess Nesser,1511 S.Cactus Road,Apache Junction,addressed the council
regarding the Boys and Girls Club annual event this Saturday night at 5:00
p.m.They expect between 300 and 400 people.
Mr.Dan Wald,560 N.Rennick Drive,Apache Junction,addressed the council
regarding the council pay raise.There is a lot of preparation time for the
council and they all work full time.He does not know when they have time to
have dinner as he believes they probably started at 6:00 p.m.,with the water
district meeting followed by an executive meeting.The city is projected to
grow to about 80,000 within the next 10 years.In 2020,i t is estimated the
city will be between 110,000 and 120,000:in 2030 i t is estimated 145,000.
These are demographic projections from the census bureau.The buildout is
estimated in 2040 of 180,000.Most cities with populations of 30,000 or more
have full time mayors and council members.He believes the best and
brightest should be chosen for service to lead the community,elected or
appointed.Community service by citizens and elected people should always be
encouraged to be undertaken at little or no cost to the citizens.However,
with the potential burden of the government,taking time away from these
peoples'normal lives,he believes they should reconsider where they are at.
Normally when city pay studies are conducted in the open by committees
consisting of citizens,management,business leaders and others as necessary,
it will assure that the resultant study and the recommendations derived from
there are bought into by the community.They are currently being faced with
issues regarding Gold Canyon,Mesa,Apache Junction,boundaries,water and
growth and they are not going away but getting worse.He believes the
positions should be full time in order for them to function properly on the
community's behalf.He recommends they determine i f i t is necessary to
compensate any city official,which he believes is the case.Should it take
place,the level of compensation is the next step.He cautioned the council
to address the projected buildout issues,including the potential impact on
the current mayor and council.If full time,they need to look at insurance
and benefits,including retirement benefits.He listed people he thought
would be beneficial to have on a committee to do the study.He also gave his
condolences to the mayor and his family.
Mr.Joe Severs,1184 N.Starr,Apache Junction,filled out a form but
declined to speak at this time.
Mrs.Anne Marie Surra,1150 E.Estevan,Apache Junction,addressed the
council regarding the branding and imaging study.I t disturbs her that the
city is considering spending another $40,000 on another study.She listed a
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MAY 4,2004
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number of studies that have been done since 1999.All of them stated the
first phase was the study and vision.The second phase was development.The
city is doing a good job at starting to development things that will make
this image fade from what it was and be representative of what the community
is,including downtown redevelopment,the capital facilities program,one of
the best libraries in the state,and neighborhood cleanup.She would take
the money and hire some part-time code compliance officers and clean up the
rest of the neighborhoods.They do not need another study;they already know
what it takes.Clean up the front and back yard;individuals need to make a
commitment to that image.The city does not have to brand itself as a
shining star,i t already is with the Superstition Mountains,the Lost
Dutchman Mine,tradition and heritage.She commented on the Japanese city
that wanted to be a sister city so that they could be known as Japan's most
western town.The city needs to sound its own horn in a more positive
manner.Everyone needs to stop slapping themselves in the face and start
promoting themselves,and clean up their "yards".This will clean up the
city's image.She also requested that the council consider that if a person
is on another commission or board and they have some time left,to spread the
wealth and use some of the new people requesting appointment.She does not
feel i t is necessary for those being appointed to have to attend the Citizens
Leadership Institute.There are some who have been working in programs,such
as parks and recreation,that would like to serve on committees.She
requested they keep an open mind and not continue to reappoint the same
people even though they have been doing a great job.
Mr.Elliott Fisher,547 E.Quail,Apache Junction,Greater Apache Junction
Association for Effective Government,addressed the council regarding his
candidacy for county supervisor;registered independent voters;a timer for
the new city hall;Williams Gateway airport,Gold Canyon residents'opinion
of the airport authority;the US 60 bypass;recent city elections and
petitions;past transportation studies and mass transit.
Mr.Steven White,105 N.Delaware,Apache Junction,addressed the council
regarding artistic expression on public property.He has traveled around
America for 32 years supporting himself at art festivals.He belongs to many
art guilds.He talked about attempting to sell art at Clement Park in
Colorado 6 years ago and the battle he had with their city government.He
feels his art could be interpreted as freedom of speech;their government
determined he lost his right to free speech if he received compensation for
speaking on public property.Selling his artwork made him a vendor making
him subject to all the commercial vendor laws.He won his case and i t opened
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
MAY 4,2004
PAGE 4 OF 23
up 120 parks in Colorado to -free family community art shows.All ages
enjoyed the artwork and poetry.The children read poetry or make drawings:
that they would sell:they showcased ,the children in the arts the same way
that they showcase children in sports.He feels that free family community
art shows are free speech activities.However,this does not occur all
across America.He is now an artist advocate,traveling around the country
challenging city governments on the. issue.Hestated that i t is illegal to
be an artist in every city in the State of Arizona except Apache Junction.
He is involved with federal litigation with some of the northern Arizona
cities.Apache Junction is the first city in Arizona to suspend enforcement
of municipal commercial ordinances on citizen artists in'the community.
Apache Junction is the firsLcity to open the door for free family community
art shows to be created.They are working with Mr.Stern to do a show at the
Elks Lodge He is hoping for community support.
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
City Manager George Hoffman announced that AM -1-04,the underground -utilities
public hearing item was advertised .and materials prepared for tonight's
agenda.Accidentally and unintentionally,it was not placed on the:agenda.
It will be readvertised,and rescheduled for the council meeting of June 1,
2004.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
PROPOSED ORDINANCE NO.1201,CASE PZ-4-
04.,A REZONING REQUEST BY MR.RANDY -
QUESENBERRY
)Associate Planner Noel
Griemsmann briefed the council omthe item.He stated this was continued
from the last public hearing.Staff was directed to.meet with:the applicant
and work out the ordinance to reflect the planned development as well as some
stipulations that came out of the discussion.Staff has firmed up the
specific stipulations to include insuring the different floor plans are
submitted at the time of the preliminary plat and specifications for
installation features at ,the time of installation such as front yard
landscaping.,
Vice Mayor Eck requested the
applicant address the council.
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MAY 4,2004
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Mr.Randy Quesenberry declined to
address the council.
Councilmember Waldron commented he
understood from the last meeting thatthese houses would be in the
neighborhood of 3,000 sq.ft.The ordinance states nothing less than 1,295
sq.ft.He asked what the percentage of homes would be for those in the 3,000
sq.ft.range versus the 1,295 sq.ft.range.
Associate Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated those specifics were not specified.
Councilmember Waldron stated he was
led ,to believe these would be larger- homes.
Associate,Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated the applicant requested the 1,295 sq.ft.since that is the smallest
model they sell.
Vice Mayor Eck commented he had
read that as 1,300 sq.ft.minimum to as high as 3,000 sq.ft.:
Councilmember Waldron asked if they
are talking 99%of them at the 1,300-sq.ft.or what.
Associate -Planner Noel Griemsmann
stated the ordinance as written would allow all of them to be at 1,295.sq.ft.
Vice Mayor Eck requested the.
applicant address the council.
Mr.Randy Quesenberry stated this
is based on what they have sold in the past.He stated that 80%of what they
have -sold has been in the 1,800 sq.ft.to 2,300 sq.ft:range.He does not
want to limit i t and say that someone who does not want a home that big
cannot go into;the subdivision.The draw is the 10,000 sq.ft.lot average.
I t is an attractive lot.He can only base the sales on history.He added i t
is actually the 1,780 sq.ft.and 2,300 sq.ft.models that are the most
popular.
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MAY 4,2004
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Councilmember Sippel asked Rudy
Esquivias about his conversation with the applicant as he understood that the
majority of the homes sold were the 1,295 sq.ft.,which is why this was
lowered from 1,300 sq.ft.
Development Services Director Rudy
Esquivias stated the applicants had advised in the beginning that they had a
range of home sizes,with the original discussion about homes around 1,300
sq.ft.When the applicant made his presentation a couple of weeks ago,he
spoke of homes that he had that were as large as 3,000 sq.ft.During the
council break,they discussed how the stipulations could be reworded.It was
then that the applicant advised the 1,300 sq.ft.home is actually 1,295
sq.ft.and that i t is their most popular model.He requested the 1,295
sq.ft.model be the minimum.However,they have spoken about a range of home
sizes.
Mr.Randy Quesenberry stated the
1,295 sq.ft.home is 48'long.I t is not their most popular home by a long
shot,but he did not want to make i t 1,300 because he does not believe the
difference between 1,295 and 1,300 is much.This is their market and what
they sell.They do not compete with Pulte,KB and Ivory as the builders are
more competitive with the 1,200 to 1,300 sq.ft.homes.He is more
competitive in the 1,800 to 2,000 sq.ft.range.Their number one seller is
2,596 sq.ft.I t is only $10,000 more to go from 1,295 sq.ft.to over 2,000
sq.ft.The customers seek the true value.He believes the other
subdivisions such as Meridian Manor failed because they tried to go in with a
1,200 sq.ft.home on a 6,000 sq.ft.lot and they are not competitive there.
There is a glut on the market for that.They are trying to offer something
bigger:that is what sells.He has only one model at 1,295 sq.ft.and then
he jumps up to 1,600 sq.ft.He has 10 models in stock,and the rest are
1,782 sq.ft.or bigger.The 1,782 sq.ft.model will be the smallest model
they will set up for display in the subdivision.
Councilmember Sippel asked if that
would be their model.
Mr.Randy Quesenberry stated that
would be their smallest model:they will have several.He believes the first
house going in will be the 2,500 sq.ft.model.
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MAY 4,2004
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Councilmember Sippel asked what
that model would cost.
Mr.Randy Quesenberry stated i t
would be $100,000 for the home.The entire package would be about $170,000.
Councilmember Sippel asked if that
would include the garage.
Mr.Randy Quesenberry stated i t
would have $20,000 in improvements so it would be close.
Councilmember Sippel commented the
garages are an option with these models.
Mr.Randy Quesenberry stated they
will have either a garage or carport;the carport will be the minimum and
there will be no aluminum in the carport.
Councilmember Sippel asked if the
garage would be an upgrade.
Mr.Randy Quesenberry stated that
is correct.A lot of people would choose to do that because i t is not a lot
of money to go from a carport to a garage.He does not want to have it where
every house in there is $175,000.His target is to have most of the homes in
the $150,000 to $160,000 range.
Councilmember Sippel commented a
garage is important.You can drive down any road and see lots of things
stored in carports.He would rather see a garage door than a carport full of
stuff.He would prefer to see a garage standard since this is only a few
thousand dollars more.
Mr.Randy Quesenberry commented
everything is crammed because they are forcing families to live in a 1,200
sq.ft.house on a 6,000 sq.ft.lot.They do not have enough room to live.
He could give them another 1,000 sq.ft.of home on a 10,000 sq.ft.lot
instead of a garage.I t is a matter of choice.
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MAY 4,2004
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Councilmember Sippel stated he does
not disagree with him.He has a 2,500 sq.ft.home and also has a garage full
of stuff.
Mr.Randy Quesenberry stated it is
a matter of economics.This is not an entry level subdivision.
Councilmember Sippel commented an
entry level home typically has a garage.In his mind,i f i t is not an entry
level subdivision,than a garage would be a standard option.
Mr.Randy Quesenberry stated i t is
a matter of choice.I t is also what his customers tell him,too.The
customers should have the choice of the 10,000 sq.ft.lot.The customer is
looking at high dollars if he is getting a 2,500 sq.ft.home on a larger lot
than 6,000 sq.ft.to 7,000 sq.ft.He tries to maximize the lot size.
Councilmember Waldron commented he
walked away from the last meeting thinking these were going to be larger
homes and a move up subdivision.He saw the 1,295 sq.ft.home and wanted to
have it clarified.He appreciated the information.
Mr.Randy Quesenberry stated he
sells very few because they are not price competitive.
Councilmember Insalaco stated the
problem with starter homes is that most of what you see is garage.The house
is hidden.There is not enough room to spread the house out.He stated
there have been homes built here with less than 1,200 sq.ft.Homes have been
built since he was on the council that have been less than 1,000 sq.ft.A
1,200 sq.ft.home does not sound bad to him.
Councilmember Sippel stated he is
not against the size of the home and the smaller homes are all garage across
the front.But he would rather see all garage than a stack of boxes and a
car that needs to be repaired across the front of the house.
Councilmember Dietz agreed.
Councilmember Sippel stated the
garage allows you to hide whatever is going on.
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MAY 4,2004
PAGE 9 OF 23
Vice Mayor Eck commented he
believes this is a quality subdivision for this area.They have come a long
way from the start.He thinks it will be very attractive to the community;
it will be a very nice development for the area
Councilmember Dietz stated it will
be an improvement to the neighborhood.
Vice Mayor Eck opened the public
hearing on the item.
Mr.Richard Randall,2539 E.
Fairview Circle,Mesa,addressed the council.He was at the last council
meeting and had just recently _purchased one of the 5 acre parcels being
considered for rezoning.It is parcel number 102-18-005.He fullyisupports
the proposed development.His issue is he needs to decide what to do with
his 5 acres.According to the rezoning stipulations,single family .homes
would not be allowed.He would like to have a chance to review that fully
with staff and make sure that the option of being able to develop his land is
there.
Vice Mayor Eck asked if he wanted
to have the option of stick built homes in this subdivision.
Mr.Richard Randall stated that is
correct.
Vice Mayor Eck commented he is
throwing a loop :in this.They had worked hard to get a project done and they
thought this is what he wanted.
Mr.Richard Randall stated he is
new at this and i t has taken awhile for him to get fully up to speed .on it.
He wanted an assurance from the council that what is written there would
allow him to build a single family development per CR-3.He would support
the way i t is written then.;
Vice Mayor Eck commented he is
asking that half of this subdivision be stick built and the other half
manufactured housing.
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MAY 4,2004
PAGE 10 OF 23
Mr.Richard Randall 'stated that is
correct.The layout also may not look exactly as presented;he may want to
do lot sizes that are a little narrower and deeper.
Vice Mayor Eck asked if this
process would have to be started all over from scratch.
Development Services Director Rudy
Esquivias stated • that is correct.The lot sizes are basically to be in
compliance with what is shown on the concept plan.They have given us a lot
layout and on it they have given lot size ranges which are all over 8,000
sq.ft.This is now a planned development rezoning for a manufactured home
community because that is what the applicant asked for.I t could be amended
by taking the manufactured homes reference out of the title.He stated they
could amend the title to state "rezoning from general rural and TH to CR-
3/MH/PD singlerfaMily resident zone,7,000 sq.ft:minimum lots by planned
development".That would allow the option for either conventional or
manufactured.
Vice Mayor Eck commented half of
the subdivision would be.the large lots withthe manufactured homes.
Development Services Director Rudy
Esquivias stated it would be however they ended up selling it.They could
market i t as a community with manufactured homes and conventional homes next
to each other.However,i t is not what the applicant asked for.
Mr.Richard Randall asked if they
could continue this to the next meeting.
City Attorney Joel Stern stated
stipulation number two states the developer shall install a new manufactured
home unit.That would also have to be amended.
Development Services Director Rudy
Esquivias stated the third and fifth paragraphs in the "In General"section
would also have to be amended,along with 3A.
Mr.Richard Randall asked if they
could amend i t as far as area and say that the stipulations apply'to the
western section.
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MAY 4,2004
PAGE 11 OF 23
Councilmember Sippel stated they
want to change the whole property to a planned development but how can they
if the person does not own the whole thing.It appears this gentleman owns
half.
Development Services Director Rudy
Esquivias stated the property has two ownerships,but as long as the
applicant has signatures from both owners on the application,and Mr.
Quesenberry is acting as his representative,then they can handle the
rezoning case.
Councilmember Sippel stated he
could see it not going that way.Mr.Randall wants stick built and Mr.
Quesenberry wants manufactured.The road needs to be completely redrawn on
the site plan because this half will be completely different.
Development Services Director Rudy
Esquivias stated this is the first time they have heard from this gentleman.
He does know what he wants.
jeopardizing the whole subdivision.
owns which part of the property.
the western parcel.
split right down the middle.
Vice Mayor Eck commented i t is
Councilmember Waldron asked who
Mr.Richard Randall stated he owns
Councilmember Sippel stated i t is
Mr.Richard Randall stated that is
correct;he purchased the property in early April.He asked again for a
continuance;he does not want to make a decision on the fly.
Mr.George Diehl,653 S.Palo Verde
Drive,Apache Junction,addressed the council.He believes they have been
given ample time to complete the planned development.He believes the
gentleman who just got through speaking is looking for another way to make
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MAY 4,2004
PAGE 12 OF 23
more money.He is against i t and urged council to go ahead with the proposed
plan.
Mrs.Maria Ewell,1339 W.Roundup,
Apache Junction,addressed the council.She stated the gentleman said he
just bought the land,and she believes this is happening because,following
the continuation from two weeks ago,the gentleman is now realizing that he
can get more money for his land or he can get a bigger profit.She urged for
approval two weeks ago but it was put off.This gentleman stated five
minutes before the meeting that he was going to pull the plug.She does not
think i t is fair to the applicant or the community that has looked forward to
a manufactured home community.This development is being welcomed into the
community.The new owner has come in tonight to destroy many months work of
preparing,presenting,and staff's time.She requested council not continue
this item but approve it.
Mr.Louis Babin,2191 S.Belair
Road,Apache Junction,addressed the council.He commented he wished the
general public would show up at the work sessions and regular sessions of the
planning and zoning commission meetings.It would be helpful for the
commission.
Mr.Dennis Tubb,2952 W.16th
Avenue,Apache Junction,addressed the council.He lives directly across
from the proposed project.He stated he is sick and tired of trash in the
neighborhood,kids starting fires,transients setting up campgrounds,and .
things being stolen.These people are proposing to come in and clean up his
neighborhood.If the city wants a better image,then let the developer clean
up the neighborhood and he will clean up his backyard.He urged approval of
the project.He commented all of the other neighbors stayed home because
this was supposed to be a "slam dunk".He could have had 30 people in here
tonight to support this:i t is time it was approved.
Vice Mayor Eck closed the public
hearing on the item and reopened the item to council discussion.
Councilmember Waldron commented he
went out to the lot where the homes are after the last meeting.They are
quality homes,not mobile homes.It will be a good subdivision and good for
the neighborhood.They had continued this process in order to make some
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MAY 4,2004
PAGE 13 OF 23
amendments to the existing ordinance.He believes i t should be passed so
that the gentleman can get the subdivision.
Councilmember Milkey commented he
understands the desire of the area to get something in there that improves
the appearance,image and quality of life for the neighborhood.However,he
would like a legal opinion on proceeding when we have an application for
rezoning where Mr.Quesenberry represents the property owner of both parcels
when in fact i t appears he is not the owner of both parcels.
City Attorney Joel Stern stated
legally this is a rezoning that Mr.Quesenberry signed off on.He is the
applicant and represents the other owners.If one owner does not like it,i t
becomes a city -initiated rezoning and then,if it passes,i t is subject to
referendum.
Councilmember Sippel stated they
can still approve it tonight and the other owner could say no and it would go
through this process.
City Attorney Joel Stern stated i f
a referendum does not occur the other owner or some other person with
interest can come to the development services department and put in an
application for rezoning.They have to be an owner or an agent of the owner.
It can be rezoned for another use,subject to city council approval.I t
would go through planning and zoning and city council approval.I t is
subject to referendum which is an option of other interested parties.
Vice Mayor Eck commented they have
come this far and he is not going to halt this subdivision.It was almost
passed two weeks ago.The new property owner states he is new to this,and
if he is that new he thinks he will find •out it will be in his best interests
to go along with this subdivision.I t is up to him to find out.He cannot
see starting all over on this.
Councilmember Sippel agreed.He is
concerned about what the whole piece would look like,because if he says no,
they would build homes on half of it.
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MAY 4,2004
PAGE 14 OF 23
Vice Mayor Eck stated it would be
approved as what we have on the application.It will be a manufactured home
subdivision or they come back to square one and go through the process again.
Councilmember Sippel commented he
owns half of the property but not the other half.Council could approve this
and he could start bringing in his manufactured homes: but he asked if can
only put them on half of the property.
Vice Mayor Eck commented if the one
man says no,the subdivision does:not happen and it goes back to a dirt lot.
They would have to start all over again if someone wants to do something -with
it.
Councilmember Dietz commented they
are only rezoning the property this evening to let this development go on.
He believes they should do i t and -get it done with..I t should have gone
through last time.He does not believe this gentleman should be able to come
in at the last minute and throw a wrench into the spokes when he was here at
the last meeting.He should have stood up and said something at that time i f
he had an issue.
Vice Mayor Eck closed the
discussion and called for a motion.
Councilmember Insalaco MOVED THAT
ORDINANCE NO.1201 BE READ BY TITLE ONLY AND THE READING OF THE ENTIRE
ORDINANCE BE WAIVED:
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.1201,AS READ BY THE CITY CLERK,BE APPROVED AND ADOPTED.
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MAY 4,2004
PAGE 15 OF 23
Councilmember Waldron SECONDED THE.
MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
Vice Mayor Eck called for a 10
minute break.
Vice Mayor Eck reconvened the
meeting.
OLD BUSINESS
None.
NEW BUSINESS'
REAPPOINTMENTS/NEW APPOINTMENTS TO BOARD
OF ADJUSTMENT,LIBRARY BOARD,PARKS AND
RECREATION COMMISSION AND PLANNING AND
ZONING COMMISSION
)Vice Mayor Eck commented the
interviews of new applicants were last night and they have the information on
those members who would like to be reappointed.
There was general discussion on
whether the motions would be one per person or group motions.The consensus
was to do the motions by each board and commission.
Councilmember Sippel MOVED THAT
MART GARDNER BE REAPPOINTED TO THE BOARD OF .AJUSTMENT,AND THAT PASQUALE
D'AMICO BE APPOINTED TO THE BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT FOR TERMS TO EXPIRE ON JUNE
30,2007.
Councilmember Waldron SECONDED THE
MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
MAY 4,2004
PAGE 16 OF 23
The motion carried.
Councilmember Sippel MOVED THAT
TESS NESSER,RHONDA JACKSON AND BEVERLY KIMBALL-WRIGHT BE REAPPOINTED TO THE
LIBRARY BOARD FOR A TERM TO EXPIRE ON JUNE 30,2007.
Councilmember Waldron SECONDED THE
MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
Councilmember Sippel MOVED THAT
CONRAD PISINSKI BE REAPPOINTED AND I ALSO MOVE THAT MONA BARTON BE APPOINTED
TO THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION FOR TERMS TO EXPIRE JUNE 30,2007.
Councilmember Dietz SECONDED THE
MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
Councilmember Waldron MOVED THAT
ROSALIE GIFFORD BE REAPPOINTED TO THE PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION AND JOE
SEVERS BE APPOINTED TO THE COMMISSION FOR TERMS TO EXPIRE ON JUNE 30,2007.
Councilmember Dietz SECONDED THE
MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
COUNCIL DIRECTION TO STAFF ON ANY OF THE ABOVE LISTED AGENDA ITEMS
None.
COUNCIL DIRECTION TO STAFF ON OTHER PROPOSED LEGISLATION OR ACTIONS
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
MAY 4,2004
PAGE 17 OF 23
MAYOR AND COUNCIL PAY
)Councilmember Sippel briefed the
council on this item.He would like to see staff do some research on what
other councils'are making,using the same study that was used for the city
manager a few years back.He believes those cities are Avondale,Casa
Grande,Fountain Hills,Goodyear and Surprise.The only one larger than
Apache Junction is Avondale.He would like them to look at how much those
council members are paid,the other benefits they receive,whether or not
they are part time or full time,when their last raise was given and when i t
became effective.
Councilmember Dietz commented he
would like to see research on what it takes and what is available.
Councilmember Insalaco stated when
he ran for i t the first time he knew what the pay was,and he knew what i t
was this time.He has a problem with raising the pay to a point where we are
going to have people running for this office because of the money.He
probably loses as much money at his business by leaving early as he makes
here,but he did not take the job for the money.He has a real problem with
this.
Councilmember Sippel stated they
are just doing research at this time,not giving themselves a raise.
Councilmember Insalaco stated he
believes i t is a waste of staff's time.
Vice Mayor Eck commented i t has
been long enough and he believes they should take a look at it.He would
never support a large increase in the salary,but he would support something
minimal.Our budgets are getting tighter and tighter and i t is getting
harder and harder to get employees.I t is very difficult for him to say they
are going to go ahead and increase their own salaries.He has no problem
taking a look to see where they are at and possibly coming back at some point
with a minimal increase.He would want to do it prior to an election.He
would want people to know how he stands on the issue in case i t upsets them.
I t used to aggravate him to see elected officials give themselves raises,but
now he is one and he has watched for many years.He wished there were some
programs like cost of living for councilmembers,but there is not.He
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
MAY 4,2004
PAGE 18 OF 23
commented he believes Councilmember Sippel is doing the right thing,then
closed the discussion and called for a motion.
Councilmember Sippel asked if a
date was needed.
City Clerk Kathleen Connelly
suggested 60 days.
Councilmember Sippel stated he is
fine with that.Councilmember Sippel MOVED THAT STAFF DO RESEARCH ON WHAT
OTHER COUNCILS'ARE MAKING,USING THE CITIES OF AVONDALE,CASA GRANDE,
FOUNTAIN HILLS,GOODYEAR AND SURPRISE,AND LOOK AT HOW MUCH THOSE COUNCILS
ARE PAID,THE OTHER BENEFITS THEY RECEIVE,WHETHER OR NOT THEY ARE PART TIME
OR FULL TIME,WHEN THEIR LAST RAISE WAS GIVEN AND BECAME EFFECTIVE,AND
REPORT BACK TO COUNCIL WITH THE INFORMATION IN A TIME PERIOD NOT TO EXCEED 60
DAYS.
Councilmember Dietz SECONDED THE
MOTION.
VOTE:5-1 (Councilmember Insalaco voted in opposition.)
BRANDING/IMAGING OLAPACHE JUNCTION.
)City Manager George Hoffman
briefed the council on the item.They had heard the presentation last night.
Vice Mayor Eck opened the item to
council discussion.
Councilmember Sippel commented
Glendale and Chandler are getting ready to do the same thing.They have
already expended the money and he suggested they wait to see what they get
for their money before the city throws $35,000 at it.The Chamber will help,
but i t is very little.Those cities are rapidly growing and he would like to
see what happens.
Councilmember Waldron agreed..He
commented out of this story came the non -story of changing the name of Apache
Junction..The name changing was not an issue,' but he was impressed by the
passion of thepeople of the city for the name of Apache Junction.There is
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
MAY 4,2004
PAGE 19 OF 23
a lot of pride .out there.He .does not believe they need a company to come in
and tell them what they need for a slogan -or a logo.There has been enough
pride. shown by the people on the name and he hopes i t continues to a point
where-people clean up their properties and take pride in it.A radio disc
jockey commented that even though he does not live in Apache Junction,he
likes Apache Junction,its name,and he thinks i t is a great community.He
does not feel they need to spend. the money.
Councilmember Insalaco agreed.He
does not even want to wait.He would like to bypass i t entirely.He is a
Chamber member and they may get mad at him,but Anne Marie Surra nailed i t on
the head when she said thatwe can clean up our own town.We do not need
someone to tell us a building_is a wreck.I t is fine with him,however,i f
they want .to wait.
Councilmember Dietz agreed.They
have intelligent people on staff that if the city needs to get into any
marketing i t could be handled in house.They have code compliance and a
number of other tools.He does not think i t is needed at this time.
Councilmember Waldron stated
perhaps some citizens will get together and -take on this project _and -work
with the mountains,the lakesAnd things like that.He thinks the citizens
could_do a better job than a company:
Cbuncilmember Sippel stated they
would -also.be free.
Vice Mayor Eck agreed,but -he did
not feel any fingers should be pointed at individuals at the Chamber.The
Chamber's -responsibility -is to tryto use ,whatevermechanisms they can to:.
bringieconomicgrowth and:expansion-to ,the community.In the short time this.
has been discussed,one individual s name has been brought up time and time ..
again:,Hethinks. it. is unfairto ,bring.up this individual:they were looking
at this.from:a different angTeithaniWe.are.-They:ultiMately -want success as
we want success.;He -likes:the community and -lts:name;but he believes there
are some developers-who still-think that we are not the community they want
to come to.HO:thinks that is -chaging:and -they'haveAone alot:of things -to..
make•that change.He thinks it is a.lot of to spend for a- study .and•they .
have donea-lot Hof studies.jruthe• past.,He agrees with whateveryone'else •
has said,especiall*Councilmember ,Waldron'sHremark regarding the passibn-of -
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
MAY 4,2004
PAGE 20 OF 23
the citizens for their community and the emotion you see.They do not want
someone else to come in and tell them what is wrong with their community.
Vice Mayor:Eck closedthe
discussion anchcalled for a motion:There was no motion offered.
There,was general discussion on
what action should be taken.The consensus was to table the item and move on
to the next item.
VEHICLE INSPECTION STATION WITHIN
MUNICIPAL BOUNDARIES
City -Manager George Hoffman
briefed the council on the item.This is an item requesting the governor.to
consider placing a vehicle emissions inspection station within the city
limits given the distance i t is to the closest station in Mesa.This request
is for Apache Junction residents and:area residents.Supervisor Smith .
supports the letter and it complements her efforts orrthe same objective.
Vice MayorEck opened the itewto
council discussion.There being no discussion,he called for a motion.
Councilmember MilkeyiMOVED THAT THE
FOLLOWING DIRECTION BE GIVEN TO STAFF REGARDING VEHICLE INSPECTION STATION.
WITHIN 'MUNICIPAL BOUNDARIES.:THAT A LETTER BE DRAFTED TO BE SIGNED BY THE
MAYOR INDICATING TO THE GOVERNOR AND STATE LEADERS,APACHE JUNCTION'S DESIRE
AND NEED FOR A LOCAL VEHICLE INSPECTION STATION TO ALLOW LOCAL AND AREA
RESIDENTS THE NECESSARY AND CONVENIENT MEANS: TO COMPLY WITH VEHICLE -
INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS.
Councilmember Waldron SECONDED THE
MOTION,
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 WORK ,SESSION- AT 7:00 P.M.BEHELD ON
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
MAY 4,2004
PAGE 21 OF 23
MONDAY,MAY 17,2004,IN THE CITY CONFERENCE ROOM AND CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
RESPECTIVELY:
AND THAT AN EXECUTIVE SESSION AT 6:00 P.M.BE HELD ON TUESDAY,MAY 18,2004,
IN THE CITY CONFERENCE ROOM.
Councilmember Milkey SECONDED THE
MOTION.
VOTE:Unanimous.
The motion carried.
INFORMATION AND REPORTS
Councilmember Waldron announced he attended the CDBG awards ceremony on
behalf of the city along with Supervisor Smith and John Snethen from the Food
Bank.While he was honored to be there to accept the award for the city,the
credit goes to Roger's staff for the amount of work that they put in in
researching the grants,doing the necessary paperwork,making deadlines and
following i t up.
Councilmember Waldron announced he attended the 17th Annual Pinal County Town
Hall with George last week.It was interesting.They had about 150 people
there with the city being a partner for the last 15 years.The city was
awarded a plaque from the Town Hall Advisory Committee.
ADJOURNMENT
)Vice Mayor Eck adjourned the
meeting at 8:35 p.m.
Consent Agenda Items are as follows:
1.Acceptance of Agenda.
2.Acceptance of Minutes of Regular Meeting of April 20,2004.
I Acknowledge receipt of Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for the City
of Apache Junction for fiscal year ended June 30,2003.
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
MAY 4,2004
PAGE 22 OF 23
ACCEPTED THIS 18TH DAY OF MAY ,2004,BY THE MAYOR AND
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF APACHE JUNCTION,ARIZONA.
SIGNED AND ATTESTED TO THIS 18TH
ATTEST:
KATHLEEN CONNELLY
City Clerk
DAY OF MAY
DOUGLAS COLEMAN
Mayor
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
CERTIFICATION
,2004.
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 4th day of May,2004.I further certify that
the meeting was duly called and held and that a quorum was present.
Dated this 11th day of May,2004.
KATHLEEN CONNELLY
City Clerk
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
MAY 4,2004
PAGE 23 OF 23