HomeMy WebLinkAbout1998-11-04 Council MinutesAGENDA
KENAI CITY COUNCIL -REGULAR MEETING
NOVEMBER 4, 1998
7:00 P.M.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
http://www.ci.kenai.ak.us/
ITEM A: CALL TO ORDER
1. Pledge of Allegiance
2. Roll Call
3. OATHS OF OFFICE -- MAYOR WILLIAMS, COUNCILMEN BOOKEY
AND MOORE
4. Agenda Approval
5. Consent Agenda
*All items listed with an asterisk (*) are considered to be routine and
non -controversial by the Council and will be approved by one motion.
There will be no separate discussion of these items unless a Council
Member so requests, in which case the item will be removed from the
Consent Agenda and considered in its normal sequence on the agenda
as part of the General Orders.
ITEM B: SCHEDULED PUBLIC COMMENTS (10 minutes)
1. Bill Coghill -- Mikunda Cottrell & Co. /Audit Presentation
2. Bob Seymour -- KCHS Hockey Booster Club
ITEM C: PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. Resolution No. 98-77 -- Adopting Certain Street Name Changes
2. Resolution No. 98-78 -- Awarding a Bid to Eastside Carpet Co. for
Kenai Public Library Book and Shelving Removal and Replacement-
19 9 8 for the Total Amount of $17,200.
3. Resolution No. 98-79 -- Directing the Continuation of the Project
Entitled, "Crow Court Street Improvement District" and Designating
What Improvements Are to be Included in this Project.
ITEM D: COMMISSION/COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. Council on Aging
2. Airport Commission
-1-
3. Harbor Commission
4. Library Commission
5. Parks & Recreation Commission
6. Planning 8. Zoning Commission
7. Miscellaneous Commissions and Committees
a. Beautification Committee
b. Historic District Board
C. Kenai Visitors 8s Convention Bureau Board
d. Alaska Municipal League Report
ITEM E: MINUTES
1. *Regular Meeting of October 21, 1998.
ITEM F: CORRESPONDENCE
1. *R.Ross memorandum regarding Revised Professional Services
Agreement/City of Kenai and James E. Carter/Professional Consulting
Services at the Kenai Municipal Airport for the Project Called Airport
Expansion and Development/A User Interest Survey -- FOR
INFORMATION ONLY.
ITEM G: OLD BUSINESS
ITEM H: NEW BUSINESS
1. Bills to be Paid, Bills to be Ratified
2. Purchase Orders Exceeding $2,500
3. *Ordinance No. 1803-98-- Amending the Zoning Code at KMC
12.25.030 to More Clearly Define "Junk Vehicle."
4. Discussion -- Public Opinion Survey
5. Discussion -- Possible Purchase of Overland Avenue Property (Lot 2,
Block 5/Three Lots) .
6. Discussion -- EDD/EDA -- ARFF Advertisement/Public Relations.
ITEM I: ADMINISTRATION REPORTS
1. Mayor
2. City Manager
-2-
3 .
Attorney
4.
City Clerk
5.
Finance Director
6.
Public Works
7.
Airport Manager
ITEM J: DISCUSSION
1. Citizens (five minutes)
2. Council
EXECUTIVE SESSION - None Scheduled
ITEM K: ADJOURNMENT
-3-
KENAI CITY COUNCIL -REGULAR MEETING
NOVEMBER 4, 1998
T:00 P.M.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
http://www.ci.kenai.ak.us
ITEM A: CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Williams called the meeting to order at approximately 7:03 p.m. in the Council
Chambers in the Kenai City Hall Building.
A-1. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Williams led those assembled in the Pledge of Allegiance.
A-2, ROLL CALL
Roll was taken by the City Clerk. Present were: Swarner (arrived at 7:19 p.m.),
Moore, Bannock, Smalley (arrived at 8:11 p.m.), Williams and Bookey.
Absent was: Measles
A-3, OATHS OF OFFICE --,MAYOR WILLIAMS, COUNCILMEN
BOOKEY AND MOORE
Clerk Freas administered the Oath of Office to Mayor Williams. Mayor Williams
administered the Oath of Office to Councilmen Bookey and Moore.
A-4, AGENDA APPROVAL
Mayor Williams requested the following changes to the agenda:
ADD TO: D-6, Teresa Werner-Quade Letter of Resignation from Planning 8.
Zoning Commission/Application for placement on Harbor
Commission.
D-6, Planning & Zoning Commission -- Applications on file.
ADD TO: H-4, Public Opinion Survey -- Library Commission suggested
questions.
MOTION:
Councilman Bannock MOVED for approval of the amended agenda and Councilman
Bookey SECONDED the motion. There were no objections. SO ORDERED.
A-5. CONSENT AGENDA
Mayor Williams reported he had no changes to the consent agenda
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING
NOVEMBER 4, 1998
PAGE 2
MOTION:
Councilman Moore MOVED for approval of the consent agenda as presented. There
were no objections. SO ORDERED.
ITEM B:
SCHEDULED PUBLIC COMMENTS
B-1. Bill Coghill -- Mikunda Cottrell & Co./Audit Presentation
Coghill referred to the information he distributed and encouraged council to read his
letter of transmittal which pointed out highlights of which they would be interested.
Coghill noted, there was approximately $13 million in airport improvements which a
lot of that was attributed to the Aircraft Fire Training Center (mostly funded by
grants). He continued, the General Fund Balance was at approximately $10 million,
decreased from a year ago by approximately $1 million due to the funding of the
Equipment Replacement Find.
Coghill also reported an accounting change had to make changing valuing
investments to market value. There was very little difference between the market
value of the investments and the carrying value, which is very good. No special
disclosure was necessary due to the prudent investment policies of the City.
Coghill noted, last year there were two comments in their management letter dealing
with the YK2000 issue and the change in accounting already mentioned. This year,
the change to market value has been handled and now only the YK2000 problem
remains. Coghill added, they do note in the letter a conversion of systems is in
process and a good plan going forward.
Coghill also reported the single audit report has not yet been issued due to
correspondence received from FAA stated they have laws that are not covered by the
Single Audit Act and that require some special letters indicating the city's compliance
with FAA's policies and procedures regarding use of airport revenues. Coghill
continued, he contacted FAA and found that the Office of Management 8v Budget and
don't agree with FAA requiring the separate letters. Coghill added, Mikunda Cottrell
will do whatever FAA tells them to do as far as special letters or wording. They will
wait until the issues are resolved before writing the letters. Coghill continued, they
found no indication of problems with the city's use of airport revenues and the letters
will be out before the end of the year.
Williams congratulated Coghill on his company's work with the city's audit and
thanked him for their work.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING
NOVEMBER 4, 1998
PAGE 3
B-2, Bob Seymour -- KCHS Hockey Booster Club
It was noted Mr. Seymour was not in attendance at the meeting, however a copy of
the letter requesting donation of funds for an advertisement in the KCHS Hockey
Booster Club Game Program was included in council's packet. Clerk Freas noted
council had placed $200 in the Legislative account for this purpose. Clerk Freas was
directed to request a check in the amount of $200 be forwarded to the KCHS Hockey
Booster Club.
It was noted Councilwoman Swarner arrived at 7:19 p.m.
ITEM C: PUBLIC HEARINGS
C-1. Resolution No. 98-77 -- Adopting Certain Street Name Changes
MOTION:
Councilman Bookey MOVED for approval of Resolution No. 98-77 and Councilman
Moore SECONDED the motion.
There were no public or council comments.
MOTE:
There were no objections. SO ORDERED,
C-2, Resolution No. 98-78 -- Awarding a Bid to Eastside Carpet Co. for
Kenai Public Library Book and Shelving Removal and Replacement-
1998 for the Total Amount of $17,200.
MOTION:
Councilman Moore MOVED for approval of Resolution No. 98-78 and Councilwoman
Swarner SECONDED the motion.
There were no public comments. It was noted the library would be closed on
November 19 and reopened on December 7. The painting of the library will begin
prior to that, but will be done at night. Patrons will be allowed to check out a three-
week collection of books prior to the closure.
Councilman Moore noted the Library Commission discussed the method of removing
the books and asked if the company did not perform or could not perform, what
recourse would the city have. City Manager Ross answered, the city would refuse
payment.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING
NOVEMBER 4, 1998
PAGE 4
VOTE:
There were no objections. SO ORDERED.
C-3, Resolution No. 98-79 -- Directing the Continuation of the Project
Entitled, "Crow Court Street Improvement District" and Designating
What Improvements Are to be Included in this Project.
MOTION:
Councilman Bookey MOVED for approval of Resolution No. 98-79 and Councilman
Bannock SECONDED the motion.
There were no public comments. Councilman Bookey questioned the
correspondence with the Cook Inlet Housing Authority (included in the packet) and
asked if they will be exempt from paying assessments on Lot 1.
Attorney Graves explained, Clerk Freas sent a letter to CIHA responding to their
letter stating they were exempt from payment of assessments. In the letter, Freas
noted the city considered CIHA responsible for payment of the assessments on Lot 1
of Crow Court because, according to the CIHA/ City of Kenai Cooperation Agreement,
without advance approval by the city, CIHA can only acquire properties which have
paved streets and city water and sewer service installed. CIHA did not request prior
approval of the acquisition and therefore is responsible for payment of the
assessments.
Bookey stated his concern was if the matter returns and it is found CIHA does not
have to pay assessments, the cost will increase to the other property owners in Crow
Court. Graves stated, if CIHA refuses to pay the assessments, the city will foreclose
on the property for the assessment.
Public Works Manager Kornelis noted curbs and gutters were included in the project
because Tinker Lane already has curbs and gutters. In looking at the property and
elevations, it appeared that would be the best solution to handle drainage in the
area.
Bannock asked if there had been any further correspondence from CIHA. Freas
reported no further correspondence had been received.
VOTE:
There were no objections. SO ORDERED.
ITEM D: COMMISSION / COMMITTEE REPORTS
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING
NOVEMBER 4, 1998
PAGE 5
D-1. Council on Aging -- Councilwoman Swarner reported there had been
no recent meeting. The Senior Center newsletter was included in the packet. As a
money -making project, the seniors were again selling pies for Thanksgiving. Orders
could be made through the Senior Center.
D-2. Airport Commission -- No report.
D-3. Harbor Commission -- Councilman Bookey reported the minutes of the
meeting held on November 2 would be included in the next packet. He noted, the
Commission discussed the extension of the boardwalk at the flats and asked
Administration to look for funding sources and investigate how Anchorage funded
the boardwalk at Potters Marsh.
Williams reported he received broad support in regard to the proposed wayside park
at Birch Island. He added, there is a possibility the extension of this boardwalk may
be added to the Birch Island project. Williams also noted he would be meeting with a
committee of representatives from the various Native organizations in the area in
regard to the Birch Island project.
D-4. Library Commission -- Councilman Moore reported the Commission
met November 3. At the meeting, they heard a report from the Friends of the Library
who are organizing a 50th Anniversary Party for the library to be held on March 7.
Moore also noted, the fall book sale garnered approximately $1,500 and they
estimate a profit of approximately $15,000 from ticket sales for the October 30 and
31, 1998 dinner.
The Commission also discussed the patron survey and set the Holiday Open House
for Sunday, December 14 from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m.
Moore also reported a group from the Library Improvement Committee met with City
Manager Ross. Through their discussions, it was decided the Commission should
revisit their research for an addition to the library. The committee will meet again on
November 16.
D-5. Parks & Recreation Commission -- Councilman Bannock reported the
Commission's November meeting would be held November 5. Parks &. Recreation
Director Frates reported the work that could be done on the Erik Hansen Scout Park
had been completed by fall. In the spring, the gravel will need to be compacted and
the remainder of the work will be completed at that time.
D-6. Planning & Zoning Commission -- Councilman Smalley was not
present to report actions taken by the Commission. Council reviewed the letter of
resignation from Teresa Werner-Quade which was included in the packet. They had
no objections to the resignation. It was also noted, Ms. Quade requested to be
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING
NOVEMBER 4, 1998
PAGE 6
transferred to the Harbor Commission. Council had no objections to appointing Ms.
Quade to the Harbor Commission.
Council noted, with the resignation of Ms. Quade, there were now two seats available
on the Commission. They reviewed the applications on file and distributed to council
at the beginning of the meeting. Williams recommended Ozzie Osborn for
appointment and noted Osborn had been a member of the Commission in the past
and had some experience with the work for which the Commission is responsible.
Swarner suggested Barbara Waters as her application had been on file for a long
time. She added, she spoke with Ms. Waters and is aware she is still interested in
the appointment.
Moore requested consideration of Mark Schrag to be appointed. He noted Schrag has
shown interest from attending council meetings and he has telephoned him several
times in regard to the possibility of appointment. Clerk Freas reported
Commissioner Bryson will be out of town in December. There is some concern there
would be a hardship in acquiring a quorum if appointments are not made in the near
future.
Council decided to wait until the November 18 meeting to make appointments. Clerk
Freas was directed to contact the applicants and request they be in attendance at the
meeting in order for council to talk with them about their thoughts, views and
philosophies. Bannock asked if others could apply prior to the November 18
meeting. Answer was yes.
D-7. Miscellaneous Commissions and Committees
D-7a. Beautification Committee -- Swarner reported the December and
January meetings had been cancelled by council at their last meeting.
D-7b. Historic District Board -- Moore reported the minutes of the last
meeting were included in the packet. The Board decided to meet quarterly but to
meet as committees between the quarterly meetings. They will meet once more in
November prior to beginning their quarterly schedule.
Swarner noted the vote on the motion to meet quarterly was shown as passed with
three yes and one no. She noted it takes four yes votes to pass the motion.
MOTION:
Swarner MOVED to direct the Historic District Board to proceed with plans to meet
on a quarterly basis beginning in January. Councilman Moore SECONDED the
motion. There were no objections. SO ORDERED.
Swarner noted the discussion regarding the placement of the Gold Rush signage and
suggested commissions, committees and boards work together -- there needs to be
more coordination. Moore added, in regard to the Gold Rush sign, there were to be
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING
NOVEMBER 4, 1998
PAGE 7
ten signs placed around the state and at first Kenai was not included. The Historic
District Board had expressed interest in having a sign placed at Kenai. Rolf Buzzell
visited Kenai felt the most appropriate place to have a sign was at the KVCC.
Although the Board felt it was not the most preferred place, but they felt it better to
have the sign than not.
D-7c. Kenai Visitors & Convention Bureau Board -- Kathy Tarr, Executive
Director of the KVCC reported:
• the lights placed on the facility by Bob Frates and Terry Bookey looked
very nice and thanked the city for having the lights hung;
• their next board meeting was scheduled for Tuesday, November 10 at
5:30 p.m.;
• their website was almost complete (wvvw.visitkenai.com);
• they have invited the Permanent Fund Corporation Board of Trustees to
hold their next meeting in Kenai;
• the State Office of Archeology and History is providing funding for
placement of historical signs throughout southeast Alaska. They have narrowed the
site for the Gold Rush sign in Kenai to three sites, one being the grassy area between
the KVCC and Kenai Chamber. In order to place the sign there, permission will be
needed from the Chamber, however no opposition was expected;
• Monica Griffin has begun employment with the KVCC taking the
position left vacant by Mindy Lucas;
• the KVCC is planning the second annual Peninsula Writers' Night.
They will be sure to coordinate the date with the Library's 50thAnniversary
celebration.
D-7e. Alaska Municipal League Report -- Williams noted Councilman
Smalley's seat on the AML Board of Directors will become available due to his
election to the Legislature. Williams asked if council wanted to endorse a candidate
to replace Smalley or wait until the issue is discussed at the AML Conference.
Bookey stated his interest in the appointment. Clerk Freas was directed to write a
letter of endorsement to support Councilman Bookey to the seat.
BREAK TAKEN: 7:50 P.M.
BACK TO ORDER: 8:06 P.M.
ITEM E: MINUTES
E-1. Regular Meeting of October 21, 1998.
Approved by consent agenda.
ITEM F: CORRESPONDENCE
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING
NOVEMBER 4, 1998
PAGE 8
F-1. R.Ross memorandum regarding Revised Professional Services
Agreement/City of Kenai and James E. Carter/Professional Consulting
Services at the Kenai Municipal Airport for the Project Called Airport
Expansion and Development/A User Interest Survey -- FOR
INFORMATION ONLY.
Williams noted this item would not be discussed. The memorandum accompanied a
copy of the most recent draft contract and reported the contract would be discussed
at the Airport Commission on November 12 and would be returned to council for
consideration at their November 18 meeting.
ITEM G: OLD BUSINESS -- None.
ITEM H: NEW BUSINESS
H-1. Bills to be Paid, Bills to be Ratified
MOTION:
Councilwoman Swarner MOVED for approval of Item H-1 and Councilman Bookey
SECONDED the motion. There were no objections. SO ORDERED.
H-2, Purchase Orders Exceeding $2,500
MOTION:
Councilwoman Swarner MOVED for approval of Item H-2 and Councilman Bookey
SECONDED the motion. There were no objections. SO ORDERED.
H-3. Ordinance No. 1803-98-- Amending the Zoning Code at KMC
12.25.030 to More Clearly Define "Junk Vehicle."
Introduced by consent agenda.
H-4. Discussion -- Public Opinion Survey
Bob Peters, Library Commission Chair reviewed questions the Commission developed
and would like to have included in the Public Opinion Survey. Councilman Moore
added, the questions were developed after a lengthy discussion. The Commission
hoped to obtain information from non -library users as well as users. Peters added,
the library takes a biannual survey of patrons and hoped to reach a different
segment of citizens who do not use the library.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING
NOVEMBER 4, 1998
PAGE 9
It was noted Councilman Smalley arrived at 8:11 p.m.
Clerk Freas reported, in the past the persons to whom the survey was sent were
randomly (every tenth person possibly) taken from the voter registration list. City
Manager Ross added, taking names randomly from the voter list would give a
sampling of less than 500, about ten percent of the registered voters.
Moore requested the Library Commission's questions be included in the survey as
submitted. Other changes requested by council included:
Changes requested at 10/21/98 meeting:
Questions 2 and 3 are redundant, change.
Question 17 -Add Beautification
Question 24 -include all Parks &Recreation facilities/parks individually/list
ski trails and tent campground/include Senior Center.
Changes requested at 11/4/98 meeting:
Question 25 -Remove (not intention of council to raise sales tom)
Question 39 -Remove Longevity Bonus from the list.
Question 35 -Include purchases from Internet and TV with catalog.
Question 27 -Leave in, but change Kenai Library to Kenai Community
Library.
Question 26 -Remove.
Add questions received from Library Commission. Only change is to the last one
regarding funding. Change wording of their last question more like:
The Kenai Community Library Commission has determined the need for the
expansion of your library to best serve you. If the community agrees, how should
this be funded?
Increase property tax?
Increase sales tom?
Bonding?
Other funding? (Be specific)
The questionnaire is to be brought back to council at the November 18 meeting in
final form for review and final consideration.
H-5. Discussion -- Possible Purchase of Overland Avenue Property (Lot 2,
Block 5/Three Lots).
Williams noted, Attorney Graves had corresponded with the owner of Lot 2, Block 5
in Old Town. A copy of a plat was included in the packet. Also noted, was the
property on which the old power plant had been situated. Williams added, the owner
of Lot 2 had no objections to the city conducting contamination tests on the lots.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING
NOVEMBER 4, 1998
PAGE 10
Williams asked if council was interested in acquiring the property and use it as a
museum site, etc. or in having a contamination survey done on the property.
Councilman Bookey stated he would not endorse purchasing more property in Old
Town as he believed those properties needed to stay with the private sector. He
noted the old Fish & Wildlife buildings would soon be transferred to the Kenai
Natives Association and there may be some development of that property in the
future. He added, the city didn't need to acquire more property, taking it off the tax
rolls.
It was noted, the assessed value of the three lots was $31,900. Moore requested the
Historic District Board review the question as they may have some ideas for use of
the property. Smalley stated he agreed with Bookey, but had no objection to the
Board reviewing the possibility.
Council directed administration to include the subject as a discussion item on the
November Historic District Board's agenda.
H-6. Discussion -- EDD / EDA -- ARFF Advertisement/ Public Relations.
Williams reported he met with three representatives of the Economic Development
Administration in Kenai. Their primary purpose for visiting the area was to do a
review of the Kenai Visitors 8. Cultural Center. They discussed jobs created from the
Center being built. The survey was brought about due to a 1997 federal law
mandating review of facilities developed from federal funds to find out if the
taxpayers are getting full value from the funds used.
While here, Williams added, he took the representatives to the Alaska Regional
Aircraft Fire Training Center for a tour and to question whether funds might be
available for construction of a hose tower and office building at the facility. They did
not encourage the possibility of funding because a direct correlation of jobs from the
amount of funds granted had to be shown. Students attending the facility who were
there to improve their skills could not be counted. However, students there for initial
training could be counted.
Williams added, grants never exceed $ 1 million and are generally matching grants. If
the city requested a 70 / 30 grant, it would mean the city would have to finance
$180,000 of the costs. Whether or not airport funds could be used for such a project
is questionable because FAA already denied the warehouse as a part of the ARFF
project because it didn't constitute a need by aircraft crash trucks (the warehouse
would be mostly used for overall industrial support, crash pond, tower repelling,
etc.) .
Williams reported, he also discussed the possibility of developing a Cold Water
Recovery School at the ARFF complex. A committee has been developed to consider
7
the possibilities. He added, he felt an attempt should be made to work on both sides,
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING
NOVEMBER 4, 1998
PAGE 11
i.e. through EDD to enter into a pre -application for $600,000 and at the same time,
continue to develop amounts needed to develop the cold water recovery school,
including an additional $600,000 for a warehouse through Senator Stevens' office as
an appropriation request. Those funds would be then funneled through the EDA as
was done with the Challenger Center funding. Council would still have the option of
turning either down.
Williams noted, the committee was scheduled to meet on November 23 and his
recommendation was not to do anything until after that meeting. Bookey stated
there may be other avenues to think about in regard to funding from airport and
wanted to talk to administration about that in the future.
Ross stated he met with Williams and the EDA representatives twice. The audit of
the grant was discussed during his second meeting. There would be complications to
work through if it was decided to go forward with Williams' suggested projects. He
added, using airport funds would be difficult because the land on which a
warehouse/cold water recovery school would be built is General Fund land. Unless
the projects are ARFF-related, they would not be able to do a lease -back program.
He added, options are limited because it is not Airport Land.
Ross added, the audit was an eye-opener in that the rules have changed
substantially since the building of the KVCC. Now, the rules are directed at direct
employment garnered from the project. The survey used in the past would not be
acceptable today. Ross continued, he also discussed with the EDA representatives
the cold water recovery project; the second phase of the multi -purpose facility (which
would fail because of the direct job requirements); water and sewer extensions across
Bridge Access Road (there is a potential there); and the possibility of partnering with
the Kenai Natives Association in regard to the old Fish &Wildlife site.
In regard to the warehouse project, Ross added, a commitment would be needed from
a user and what kind of a lease would be used to show it is a business deal. If ESI
were the contractor, the city would have a way to recover the costs.
Williams added, he believed if a direct grant were made for the purpose of building
the warehouse (directly to the city), all three facilities could use the building. The
question would be whether or not there would be a charge for use of building space.
Williams added, he believed the development of a warehouse would be a reality in the
near future as there is a lot of need.
Williams requested administration meet with the committee on November 23 to see
what kind of plan could be developed.
In regard to advertising and public relations for the city/ARFF, Williams referred to
information developed by the Economic Development District. Williams noted,
funding was included in the Legislative budget for brochures and redoing the city
� video. Information received from EDD regarding a new brochure for the City of
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING
NOVEMBER 4, 1998
PAGE 12
Homer estimated costs to be $10,000 for 1,500 brochures and $12,000 for 3,000
brochures. The possibility of using a CD-rom as the medium for a brochure was
discussed briefly.
Administration was directed to gather price information in regard to updating the
video and/or placing the information on CD-rom for distribution.
ITEM I:
I-1. Mayor
ADMINISTRATION REPORTS
a. Water/Sewer Charges -- Williams reported he received a telephone call
from Charles Woodcock who lives on Aliak. Woodcock was upset that he was
receiving awater/ sewer billing even though he had a plumber winterize his home on
Aliak and he closed his home for the winter (Woodcock was living Outside for the
winter). Williams added, he told Woodcock he would ask council if they would
consider a policy that if a letter was received from a plumber confirming a home had
been winterized, etc. (and perhaps one when the water was turned back on in the
spring), billings could be stopped during the months the house would not be using
water/sewer services.
Ross explained, this is an issue discussed in the past. Some jurisdictions (in other
states) have summer rates, however, in most of those cases, the municipality is not
the producer, as is the City of Kenai. Ross continued, the city has a fixed cost for the
water/ sewer services to its public. If a separate rate is offered to "snowbirds" or
owners of homes that are up for sale and sitting empty, the costs to the city's other
consumers would be increased.
Swarner stated she would want the rates left as they are. Smalley agreed and added,
the consumer is paying for the service, not the value. Bookey stated he felt the same
and asked Graves what the finding was with the recent lawsuit in which one city was
involved regarding water/ sewer regulations. Graves answered, the city's regulations
were upheld and found to be proper and appropriate.
b. Hal Smalley Impending Departure to the Legislature -- Council
discussed the upcoming departure of Smalley from council as he was recently elected
to represent District 9 in the Alaska Legislature. Smalley stated he would be sworn
in on January 19, however he would be leaving for Juneau prior to that time.
Williams noted, the Kenai Charter states the council shall appoint someone to the
seat left open and that person would serve until the next general election at which
time the seat would be elected to the end of the term. He noted, the Charter did not
give guidelines as to how or when the person is to be chosen. Williams added, he
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING
NOVEMBER 4, 1998
PAGE 13
believed council should begin hearing from people in the community interested in be
appointed to the seat in February or perhaps wait until the next general election and
have the voters decide who should be in the position.
Swarner stated she believed council should appoint someone in late January or early
February in order to have a full council. She added, she would like letter of
application or resumes from interested citizens to be collected by the City Clerk.
Swarner added, she has already received questions from interested citizens as to
what will be done as they are interested in the position. Smalley suggested the
public process begin by early January. Moore agreed and added, he believed it
important the appointee be involved with the budget process.
Williams suggested administration be directed to advertise and collect resumes
beginning December 1, council could review them in early January and make an
appointment in February.
Bannock asked if a candidate would be required to submit a Conflict of Interest form
prior to being appointed. Attorney Graves was requested to get an opinion from the
Alaska Public Offices Commission in this regard.
Council requested advertising for letters of interest, resumes, applications begin
around December 1; they will begin interviewing candidates in January; and will
appoint someone in early February.
City Manager
a. Five -Irons Subdivision Land Sale -- Ross reported the land sale had
taken place with bids opened on November 3. He added, there were 13 bids received
on seven of the lots. If all bidders perform in addition to the one submitted after the
bid at minimum (on a lot not receiving a bid) there would be five lots available.
Approximately $290,000 was raised from the sale of the eight lots now sold. Ross
added, he intended to hold the price at the minimum amount and go out for another
bid in the spring if lots are still available.
Moore asked how much longer could a person be able to come in an negotiate the
purchase of a lot at the minimum bid. Ross answered any time. Ross added, if only
one or two lots are left, he would not want to hold another sale because of the costs
involved. He added, he believed those lots would be taken as other lots are
developed.
I-3. Attorney -- Attorney Graves reported he would be attending the
attorneys meeting at AML and would be out of the office Thursday and Friday.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING
NOVEMBER 4, 1998
PAGE 14
I-4. City Clerk
Freas reminded council Student Government Day would be held at their November
18 meeting.
Freas read into the record the following telephone polls:
10/29/98
The Public Works STP is requesting Council approval for a purchase order to HACH
Company for the purchase of an autoclave and water bath.
The autoclave machine sterilizes the instruments used to run required twice -weekly
fecal coliform tests for the City's NPDES EPA Permit. The existing machine is
blowing fuses, and the main heater and pressure switch are not working. There are
no parts available to fix the machine as it is too old. HACH has one machine in
stock, and they will hold it for two days. If we order the machine today, the City
should be able to have the new machine in operation by Monday in order to complete
the weekly tests.
The water bath was a budgeted item and is also needed for the NPDES Permit tests.
Autoclave Machine $32495
Water bath 1,855
Shipping 94
$5)444
Authorized by Rick Ross, City Manager
Signed by L.A. Semmens, Finance Department
Attested by Carol L. Freas, City Clerk
Vote:
John Williams: Unable to contact
Ray Measles: Yes
James C. Bookey, III: Yes
Hal Smalley: Yes
Linda Swarner: Yes (Comment: Should have been on last purchase order
list.)
Duane Bannock: Yes
Joe Moore: Yes
Poll taken by Carol L. Freas, City Clerk.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING
NOVEMBER 4, 1998
PAGE 15
10 / 30 / 98 Telephone Poll:
The Public Works Shop is requesting Council approval for a purchase order to
Oshkosh Truck Corp. for the purchase of a 250-amp alternator for the Fire
Department's ladder truck. The truck is out of operation and ISO compliance.
The cost is $2,499 with an estimated $200 for shipping. The Shop will have the old
alternator rebuilt, and it can be used as a back up for three vehicles.
Authorized by Rick Ross, City Manager
Signed by Robin G. Feltman, Finance Department
Attested by Carol L. Freas, City Clerk
Vote:
John Williams:
Unable to reach
Ray Measles:
Yes (can't have truck out of service)
James C. Bookey, III:
Unable to reach
Hal Smalley:
Yes (no problem)
Linda Swarner:
Yes (did not like the poll -- asked how long it had
been a problem)
Duane Bannock:
Yes (questioned how long it had been a problem)
Joe Moore:
Unable to reach
Poll taken by Janice E. Taylor
I-5. Finance Director -- No report.
I-6. Public Works -- No report.
I-?. Airport Manager -- Airport Manager Atha reported ERA Airlines moved
into the old SouthCentral counterspace. He also reported he would be interviewing
for an office assistant in the near future.
Atha also reported he would be holding tenant/ manager meetings on a regular basis
which will help in getting inside information on development of businesses and
pursuing new outside possibilities.
Williams stated he had received comments that ERA's service to the city was
deteriorating. He added, he commented to those people that the city is aware
changes can cause these things to occur, but that the city is investigating the
possibility of another carrier stationing itself in Kenai. He noted, the price of tickets
if up and it is hard to get a seat on the planes.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING
NOVEMBER 4, 1998
PAGE 16
ITEM J: DISCUSSION
J-1. Citizens
a. Jill Lipka, 1606 Salmo Circle, Kenai -- Lipka asked who the city is
hoping to target in regard to the use of video tapes or CD-roms. Williams answered,
in the past the videos had been sent to businesses as they were developed to target
economic development. However, brochures had been sent to businesses and used
as relocation information.
Lipka suggested using CD-roms would duplicate efforts and suggested an internet
site development would be another option. (People who have the ability to use CD-
roms have computers and most have internet capabilities.) She added, not everyone
has a computer, but most people have VCR's. She suggested the video refer to the
web site as well.
b. Kevin Remson -- Remson suggested the public opinion survey would
miss a good portion of users of the library with the distribution plan discussed earlier
and suggested using the schools for input. Williams answered, taking it to the
schools would skew the results. Ross added, the library does a user survey as well.
The public opinion survey is meant to be a random survey of the community, not
necessarily targeted to library users which would skew the results.
J-2. Council
a. Bookey -- Bookey noted the election of the Vice Mayor was omitted
from the beginning of the meeting.
MOTION:
Councilman Bookey MOVED to elect Raymond Measles as Vice Mayor and
Councilman Smalley SECONDED the motion. There were no objections. SO
ORDERED.
Bookey also stated he appreciate the lights being placed in town. He asked if lights
would be placed in front of Carrs Mall. Frates reported the lights were placed there
but the transformer blew out. As soon as the transformer is repaired the lights will
be on.
Swarner -- Reported there would be a retirement party for Pat Porter at the
Senior Center on November 23 beginning at 6:00 p.m.
Moore -- Moore asked if the regular voter list would be used for the public
opinion survey. He suggested the water/ sewer user list. Ross noted, that would
omit people living in the VIP Subdivision and other areas of town not receiving
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING
NOVEMBER 4, 1998
PAGE 17
water/ sewer services. Williams suggested the list be sorted as it is not accurate at
this time due to the lack of purging by the state. He suggested those receiving the
survey be people who have voted in the last three elections.
Bannock -- Reported he would not be in attendance at the November 18
council meeting.
Smalley -- Reported the Planning & Zoning Commission was down to five
members and if there is a conflict by one of the members, it may be difficult to take
care of business. Smalley asked how soon appointments would be made.
Williams noted, earlier discussion found that applications would be reviewed at the
November 18 meeting. Swarner suggested time be set aside at the beginning of the
meeting so applicants would not have to wait through the whole meeting.
Bannock suggested a work session be held instead in order to talk/interview the
applicants. Council determined to hold a work session at the Senior Center on
November 25, beginning at 7:00 p.m. to review applications and talk with candidates.
Smalley apologized for being late to the meeting. He noted, he was in Anchorage
attending a Legislative organizational meeting where they worked on committee
assignments. He added, he was excited about his new position and looking forward
to the work. Williams congratulated Smalley on his election to the Legislature. He
added, he was looking forward to Smalley serving the community and knew he would
do a fine job.
Parks & Recreation Director Frates reported he spoke with representatives of the Pop
Warner organization about their placement of signs on the FAA ball field. He noted,
the placing of the signs came from a decision of their board who thought since they
were using the area, they could place the signs. Frates noted, the signs were
removed.
EXECUTIVE SESSION - None Scheduled
ITEM K: ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at approximately 9:29 p.m.
Minutes transcribed and prepared by:
Carol L. Freas, City Clerk
APPROVED BY O iM y:'0! i