HomeMy WebLinkAbout1997-02-05 Council Minutes• AaBMDA
RBNAI CITY COUNCIL - RZOULAR MEETING
February S, 1997
7100 P.M.
ZZMAI CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
https//vvv.Benai.net/city
1. Pledge of Allegiance
2. Roll Call
3. Agenda Approval
4. 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.
Be BCuLD� PV�, CoMUM (10 Minutes)
1. Becky Day - Resource Development Council Update
• 2. Sara Pearson Charles Cranston - Youth Court
Presentation
3. Alaska Regional Fire Fighting Facility -
a. Fire Chief •Burnett/Tim Orthmeyer (Symtron)
b. Mayor Williams/Finance Director Larry Semmens
c. Ron Simpson, FAA
d. Dennis Steffy, MAPTS
e. EDD Representative-
f. Bob Reynolds, British.Petroleum
g. Jack La Shot, City Engineer
h. Billie Harris, Nikiski Fire Department
i. Will Jahrig, Contractor
J. Lou Schilling, Contractor
k. Bill Sharrow, Representative Young's office
1. Peggy Arness, Senator Stevens' Office
C. PUBLIC HBARINOB
1. Ordinance No. 1733-97 - Appropriating $15,000 of Grants
Received for Development of the Alaska Challenger
Learning Center and Authorizing the Transmittal of this
Grant Money to the Alaska Challenger. Center for Space,
Science and Technology, a Not -for -profit Corporation.
2. Resolution No. 97-4 - Awarding a Contract to Kluge &
Associates to Perform an Evaluation of Certain
Municipal Buildings for Compliance with the Americans
With Disabilities Act (ADA) for the Total. Amount of
$4,060.00.
3. Resolution No. 97-5 - Transferring $40000 in the
General Fund for Street Department Overtime.
4. Ratification of Protests Continuance of 1996/97
Liquor Licenses -
a. The Katmai Hotel, Restaurant & Lounge/Eaglechief,
Inc.
b. The Upper Deck Lounge
c. New Peking Restaurant
d. Casino, Inc.
e. Alaskalanes, Inc.
f. American Legion Post 020
5. *1997/98 Liquor License ReneNal - Pizza Paradisos/
Beverage Dispensary.
D. COMI88I0N/COMMITTEE REPORT@
•
E.
F.
G.
no
•
1. Council on Aging
2. Airport Commission
3. Harbor Commission
4. Library Commission
5. Parks & Recreation Commission
6. Planning & Zoning Commission
7. Miscellaneous Commissions and Committees
a. Beautification Committee
b. Historic District Board
c. Challenger Board
d. Kenai Visitors & Convention Bureau Board
e. Alaska Municipal League Report -
MINUTES
1. *Regular Meeting of January 15, 1997.
2. *Kenai City Council Work Session of January
3. *Kenai City Council Work Session of January
NEW BU8INE88
1. Bills to be Paid, Bills to be Ratified
2. Purchase Orders Exceeding $2,500
-2-
131 1997.
270 1997.
•
•
0
3. *Ordinance No. 1734-97 - Increasing Estimated Revenues
and Appropriations by $1,445 in the General Fund for
the Women's Basketball League.
4. Approval - Assignment of lease for Security Purposes,,
Lot 3, Block 4, GAA - Adolf to Bob's Pawn, Inc. and
W.W. Wilson, III.
5. Discussion - Assisted Living Center,
E$ECUTIVB 8E88ION - None Scheduled.
1.
Mayor
2.
City Manager
3.
Attorney
4.
City Clerk
5.
Finance Director
6.
Public Works Director
7.
Airport Manager
J. AI8CYA8ION
1. Citizens (five minutes)
2. Council
KENAI CITY COUNCIL - REGULAR MEETING
February S, 1997
7:00 P.M.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL CMMERB
http: //we«r.ltenai.met/city
ITEM CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Williams called the meeting to order at approximately 7:01
p.m. in the Council chambers in the Kenai City Hall Building.
A-1. PLED3E OF ALEdIME
Mayor Williams led those assembled in the Pledge of Allegiance.
A-2.
Roll was taken by the City Clerk. Present were:
Swarner, Moore, Measles, Smalley and Williams.
Absent was Bannock.
A-S.
Bookey,
Mayor Williams reported he had no changes to the agenda.
• MOTION:
Councilman Smalley MOVED to approve the agenda as presented and
Councilman Bookey SECONDED the motion. There were no objections.
80 ORDERED.
A-6. CONSENT_ Aa�ND_1�
Mayor Williams reported he had no changes to the consent agenda.
MOTION:
Councilman Smalley MOVED for approval of the consent agenda as
presented and Councilman Bookey SECONDED the motion. There were
no objections. 80 ORDERED.
ITEM a 8CHEDULED PUBLIC _CONNE R
8-JL. Hooky Gay - Resource Development Council Update
No. Gay presented an overview of what the Resource Development
Councils involvement is within the state. Gay stated RDC is a
broad -based membership organization interested in resource
development in Alaska. The organization has been operating for
21 years. Their goals are to promote and support sound resource
• development in Alaska; continue their leadership position on
land, resource and private property rights issues affecting
• KBNAI CITY
FESRUARY 51
PAGE 2
COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
1997
multiple sectors of the Alaska economy; provide factual
information on land, environmental e is and urce sto RDC
entiti
members, the general public, the m governmentes;
have a broad -based membership e resourceare interested in education of Alaska's
development, and, advance th
youth.
At this time,? RDC has been working on issues such as wetlands;
ANWR; Lease Sale 149; salvage timber sales; water andter airquaquality
issues (low sulfur air, mixing zones, discharge
ity
issues).
Gay urged council to reconsider their membershipto RDC
CKas they
would like to have Kenai back as amember.
i and
Valdez were the first communities who were members to RDC.
Gay referred to House Bill 51, which is similar to the water
rhe
quality bill passed last year and vetoed by the Governor.
bill would affect anything in regard
�sfol owpermits
that.(mixing
bill
zones). Swarner requested administration to
• Gay mentioned municipalities/communities now members as Sewardstol
,Mat -Su Borough, Anchorage, Valdez, PalpBethel,
listing of the
Bay Borough, etc. She will forward complete
membership for the city l s review.
s-a .
Sara poarson/Charles Craastoa - Youth Court
Presentation
Sara Pearson and Law Clerk Ken Loredersyouthoffenders.
poket offgiving an overview-of
what Youth Court offers for first-time
They explained Youth Court provides the opportunity for young
people who are accused of breaking the law to be judged by their
peers. The program is available for students in grades 7-12 or
ages 12 through 1S. Court roles (judges, attorneys, bailiffs,
jurors, etc.) are filled by young people. It is a real court of
law and real sentences are imposed. Parents of first-time
offenders choose whether to have fairer ren Courtsthem to
tried
ailowt
heir
peers or through regular court. Using Youth
resolve their legal problems without a criminal record.
Pearson explained their are approximately too youth on the
Peninsula who are involved with Youth Court. The youth involved
with Youth Court want to make an impact and feel it is a way for
them to help their peers. The youth go through an intensive
study and have to sit for a bar exam. Lord added, benefits in
having a Youth Court include the
eletedeSnothing isslisteaeo ourt
che
system. if
the sentence is c p ,
.
KENAI CITY
FEBRUARY 5,
PAGE 3
COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
1997
youthts criminal record. A Youth Court coordinator follows up
with whoever the youth has been assigned to perform community
service time. Those involved in Youth Court also receive school
credit.
Pearson announced there would be a mock trial held on February 20
at 5:00 p.m. at the court house at which people can attend and
see how the system works.
Williams asked what the source of funding is for the program.
Pearson answered it was volunteer at this time, however they have
received cash donations from private businesses and they have
talked with the Borough Assembly for funding as well as they are
investigating the possibility of applying for a state grant. She
estimated the amount needed to be $50,000 excluding that which
has already been donated.
B-3. Alaska Regional Fire Fighting Facility -
a. Fire Chief Burnett/Tim Orthmeyer (Morrison,
• Maierle, Inc.)
b. Mayor Williams/Finance Director Larry Semmens
c. Ron Simpson, FAA
d. Dennis Steffy, MAPTS
e. EDD Representative
f. Bob Reynolds, British Petroleum
g. Jack La Shot, City Engineer
h. Billie Harris, Nikiski Fire Department
i. Will Jahrig, Contractor
J. Lou Schilling, Contractor
k. Bill Sharrow, Representative Young's Office
1. Peggy Arness, Senator Stevens• Office
Fire Chief Dave Burnett began the lengthy presentation by
providing a packet of letters of support from FAA, DOT
Commissioner Perkins, EDD and Borough Mayor Navarre. Also, he
distributed copies of floor plans for four different design
options for the design of the building. He explained what FAA
found to be eligible for federal funding and gave information in
regard to the four options. The four options were:
Option I - A two-story building with items not funded by FAA
in gray. Basic design, most of second floor unfinished.
Option 11 - Like Option I, city's participation $6200000;
total project cost $9,906,000.
Option III - Same building design as Option ii, but with
framed, unfinished area for lease (possibly for Borough Emergency
Operation Center). Estimated city participation at $1,020,000
and total project cost of $10,342,000.
KENAI CITY
• FEBRUARY 51
PAGE 4
COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
1997
Option IV - Same building design with second floor completed
for use as lease space for Emergency Operation Center (management
training, earthquake drills, and emergency plan operations),
Estimated city participation at $1,320,000 and total project cost
of $10, 659, 000.
Burnett explained, the center would be used for more than ARFF
training. it would be used primarily for unified training and
long-range planning, including moving the Alaska Fire Academy
into the building. They expect to market the center to the
Pacific Rim and in the future call the facility PRISM (Pacific
Rim Institute of Safety and Management). Ground breaking is
planned for June.
Areas of training would include cold water recovery, Emergency
Management Services, confined rescue, etc. Also, those in the
fishing industry, persons requiring CDL's, etc. could also
receive their required training at the facility, turning it into
a Alaska Fire Academy campus.
. Tim Orthmeyer of the engineering firm of Morrison, Maierle
reported they had finished the preliminary design phase and
reviewed their letter (included in the packet) which reported
what had been completed thus far with the projects
orthmeyer explained the original design included two separate
buildings. They since consolidated them into one building to
reduce the cost of the site. He added, he and a representative
from Symtron, as well as city staff net with FAA yesterday -and
discussed Airport Trust Funds and found there is a possibility of
a congressional delay in receiving the funds.
sill kluge, architect for the project, reported the building
design was well -functioning and efficient. Through their visits
to the Helena, MT and Modesto, CA sites, they were able to note
deficiencies in those buildings, as well as their effective
details to make a better design.
Councilman Smalley asked if there were concerns with the flat -
roof design. Kluge explained what material would be used and
additional information in regard to the structure and covering on
the roof. He also discussed snow capacity the roof would be
designed to hold.
Councilwoman Swarner asked if the building size was decreased,
• would FAA still not fund 20% of the building. Orthmeyer
answered, Option I was a floor plan FAA would participate in
.
KENAI CITY
FEBRUARY 5,
PAGE 5
COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
1997
completely, however, no cost estimate had eegprepared
for
wthat
design. He added, if the building was fullyu
possibilities of leasing part of the building for EOC use. There
was also a question about the use oitrw uldblock
masonry which
building. Engineer Bill Nelson stated
is reinforced for seismic loads.
Chief Burnett completed the presentation bsthe roe of
yurglcouncil
to
s
consider Option IV and added, education i
future.
Mayor Williams presented an overview of Airport Fund income
investments and fund balances. He reviewed the building options
and explained Option I had been dismissed as the design was
developed prior to their visits to Helena ta Fh Modestofire and
before
they knew as much as now known in regard
ing
business. Williams explained Option IV was what they were explained the hoping
to build at a total cost of $10,6590000. He
federal government would pay $81774,000 which
would er would e
Kenai's $700,000 entitlement monies. e
• be
$1,932,000 for the city to pay.
Williams explained the General Fund and the Airport
d use the
operated
separately. He addedFAAe as p�RFFaid andthe City there was money in the Land
Airport Fund monies for
System Special Revenue Fund, not earmarked d for any
cityr ject.He
share of
proposed using $2 million of that money
the ARFF cost. That $2 million, he said, would be recovered
within approximately two years through lease payments, etc.
There would also be a return to the city through
clients
srantat eof the
training facility using hotel/motel rooms, r
well as sales tax into the city.
Airport Manager Randy Ernst noted, revenue
lus treceived
from
nues trainees
would go back oieratin costsrofFund,
facility.
take care of operating
Dennis Steffy of MAPTS announced they had been recently named the
Sakhalin government's official training authority for Sakhalin
Island projects. Letters of Intenthad been
signed
Kenai Communityon,
Shell, Mobil , Texaco and Exxon to institute a
College of Sakhalin Island. They hope to utilize the skills and
talents of people in the community and in every technological
area, i.e. engineering, well and gas devin elopments
f isheriestetc.
The project should be fully
every airport wanting scheduled
open the Russian/ ,
KENAI CITY
. FEBRUARY 5,
PAGE 6
is
•
COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
1997
airliner service to develop resourcesand
will
ille providing
airline firefighter and rescue trainings
e the
closest facility for the training.
Ernst added, the base income for the project was somewhat built
in because all of the state'$ fireig�hersare have already dreceivedia
a year and that fixes a base becausey
commitment from the State of Alaska to bring their people to
train in Kenai. That requirement could change to four times a
year.
It was asked how much of the work will be or has been awarded to
local contractors. Engineer Bill Nelson answered, because of the
size of the project, there may be bidders from Anchorage and
possibly Seattle. He believed most of the contractors would
subcontract work to local subcontractors. He added, the majority
of the work would be done by local subcontractors. Kluge added,
there are three contractors on the Peninsula who can bond for
this size of a job and the development of the facility should be
good for local economy.
Williams stated they were asking for council's strong
consideration to build Option IV. He added, an ordinance for the
engineering work (approximately $3000000) would be introduced at
the February 15 meeting and the public hearing would be held on
March 5.
Mr. Reynolds of British Petrol
had to do with Alaska hire and
involved in the ARFF, however,
ARFF, have the infrastructure
facilities. He added, he was
support.
eum stated his job responsibilities
purchases. He was not directly
Kenai would, after the building of
for building other educational
looking forward to giving BP's
Will Jahrig stated he thought, at first,
General Fund monies for the development
funds would come from the Airport Fund.
he thought General Fund monies would be
the facility would be positive business
he felt it would be even more positive.
BREAK TAKEN$ 8$44 P.M.
BACK TO ORDERS 8$55 P.M.
the city would be using
of ARFF and now knew
He believed, even when
used the development of
for the community. Now
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
FEBRUARY 5, 1997
PAGE 7
ITEM g: PVBLIC HEARINGS
C-1. Ordinance No. 1733-97 - Appropriating $15,000 of Grants
Received for Development of the Alaska Challenger
Learning Center and Authorizing the Transmittal of this
Grant Money to the Alaska Challenger Center for Space,
Science and Technology, a Not -for -profit Corporation.
MOTION:
Councilman Measles MOVED for the adoption of Ordinance No. 1733-
97 and Councilman Bookey SECONDED the motion.
Ginger Steffy - Identified herself as the President of the
Challenger Board of Directors and explained the ordinance would
allow for pass -through monies. Their intentions were to acquire
matching monies to keep the operation moving forward.
VOTE:
. Moore: Yes Measles: Yes Bannock: Absent
Smalley: Yes Williams: Yes Bookey: Yes
Swarner: Yes
MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
C-Z. Resolution No. 97-4 - Awarding a Contract to Kluge &
Associates to Perform an Evaluation of Certain
Municipal Buildings for Compliance with the Americans
With Disabilities Act (ADA) for the Total Amount of
$4,060.00.
MOTION:
Councilman Smalley MOVED for adoption of Resolution No. 97-4 and
Councilwoman Swarner SECONDED the motion.
There were no public comments. Councilman Moore asked which
buildings would be evaluated. City Engineer La Shot answered
nine buildings would be evaluated; City Hall, Airport Terminal,
Visitor Center, Library, Congregate Housing; Public Safety and
Recreation Center -- buildings most used by the public. Smalley
asked if the evaluation would continue to keep the City in
compliance with the mandate. La Shot answered, yes and that it
would give a better picture of budget costs.
•
•
KENAI CITY
FEBRUARY 5,
PAGE 8
VOTES
COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
1997
Councilman Smalley requested UNANIMOUS CONSENT. There were no
objections. 80 ORDERED.
C-3. Resolution No. 97-5 - Transferring $4,000 in the
General Fund for Street Department Overtime.
MOTION:
Councilman Bookey MOVED for adoption of Resolution No. 97-5 and
Councilman Smalley SECONDED the motion.
There were no public comments. Councilwoman Swarner stated she
thought council had directed that funds should not come from
contingency and should come from other areas of the department
budget. Ross explained monies were budgeted for overages on
budget items. Swarner asked if there were no other areas of the
Public Works budget from where the funds could be transferred and
Kornelis answered no.
VOTE:
There were no objections. 80 ORDERED.
C-4. Ratification of protests:
Liquor Licenses -
Continuance of 1996/97
a. The Katmai Hotel, Restaurant &
Inc.
b. The Upper Deck Lounge
c. New Peking Restaurant
d. Casino, Inc.
e. Alaskalanes, Inc.
f. American Legion Post #20
Lounge/Eaglechief,
Clerk Freas explained the ABC regulations allow for a local
governing body to protest the continued operation of a license
during the second year of the biennial license period by sending
a protest to the board by January 31 of the second year of the
license period. Those businesses listed were owing obligations
to either the Borough, the City, or both. She requested a motion
to ratify the protests.
•
0
KENAI CITY
FEBRUARY 5,
PAGE 9
NOTIONS
COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
1997
Councilman Smalley MOVED to ratify the protests for continuance
of 1996-97 liquor licenses as presented and Councilwoman Swarner
SECONDED the motion. There were no objections. 80 ORDERED.
C-S. 1997/99 Liquor Licenso Renowal - Pizza Paradisos/
Beverage Dispensary.
Approved by consent agenda.
D-ie council on Aging
Councilwoman Swarner reported the Council on Aging met on Friday,
January 31. They reviewed information received through their
Town Meeting. They intend on implementing new ideas and
functions through the year, i.e. buffets on Wednesdays and
Friends Day. Swarner added survey results were available for
review.
D-a. Airport Commission
Councilman Measles reported the next meeting was scheduled for
February 13.
D-3. Sarbor Commission
Councilman Bookey reported the January 13 meeting minutes were
included in the packet. The next scheduled meeting would be held
on February 10.
D-4. Library Commission
Councilman Moore reported the Commission met February 4 during
which there was a work session with councilmembers in regard to
the future of the library. He added, they discussed the
Commission0s early process of identifying future needs and
functions of the library and legal deficiencies of the building.
They also debated methods to expand the library and discussed
possible funding.
Moore also reported the Friends of the Library would be holding
their annual tea on February 16.
. KENAI CITY
FEBRUARY 5,
PAGE 10
COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
1997
D-S. Parks i Recreation Commission
Parks & Recreation Director Frates reported the minutes of the
last meeting were included in the packet. At the meeting, the
Commission continued their discussion in regard to the Community
Needs Survey which should be published by Spring.
The Commission also discussed the forming of a Cemetery Committee
which would be brought to council in the near future. The next
meeting would be held February 6 at the Teen Center. During the
meeting, they will be discussing designs of skateboard parks.
D-6. Planning i Zoning Commission
Councilman Smalley reported the Commission held a short meeting,
the minutes of which were included in the packet. The next
meeting will be held February 12.
D-7, Miscellaneous Commissions and Committees
16 D-7a. Beautification Committee
Swarner reported the minutes of the January 14 meeting were
included in the packet. The next meeting was scheduled for 5:00
p.m. on February 11.
D-7b. Historic District Board
Moore reported the minutes of the last meeting were included in
the packet. At their next meeting, the Board will discuss the
Lindgren/Jones and Cunningham houses. The Board is also working
on sign quotes. He also noted Kim Booth handed in her
resignation and the Board requested to change their next meeting
date from February 17 to February 24. Council had no objections
in changing the meeting date.
D-7c. Challenger Board
Kathy Scott reported an "Experience Challenger" seminar would be
held in Seattle on March 15. Room was still available if
councilmembers would like to attend. Also, Challenger would have
a display at the Health Fair and would be giving a presentation
at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February S.
D-76. Kenai Visitors i Convention Bureau Board
. Bookey reported the next meeting would be held on February 10.
S KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
FEBRUARY 51 1997
PAGE 11
D-7e. Alaska Municipal League Report
Swarner reported she would be included in a teleconference on
February 6 in regard to economic development. During the
teleconference, she added, she would bring up HB 51 and request
AML to investigate the bill. Swarner requested administration to
follow the progress of HB 51.
Regular Meeting of January 15, 1997.
Approved by consent agenda.
3-2. Kenai City Council Work Session of January 13, 1997.
Approved by consent agenda.
0 E-3. Kenai City Council Work Session of January 270 1997.
Approved by consent agenda.
None.
--i '7'wl
None.
,ITERAIL NEW BVBINE88
R-1. Bills to be Paid, Bills to be Ratified
MOTION:
Councilman Smalley MOVED to pay the bills and there were no
objections. 80 ORDERED.
R-2. Purchase Orders Exceeding $2,500
is
• KENAI CITY
FEBRUARY 51
PAGE 12
MOTIONS
COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
1997
Councilman Smalley MOVED to pay the purchase orders over $20,500
and Councilman Bookey SECONDED the motion. There were no
objections. so ORDERED.
H-3. Ordinance No. 1734-97 - Increasing Estimated Revenues
and Appropriations by $1,445 in the General Fund for
the Women's Basketball League.
introduction approved by consent agenda.
H-4. Approval - Assignment of lease for Security Purposes,
Lot 3, Block 4, GAA - Adolf to Bob's Pawn, Inc. and
W.W. Wilson, 111.
Attorney Graves noted this was a routine security assignment. He
added, there was some confusion due to the lessee going forward
with the assignment with an option to buy back first before
bringing it to the city for approval. This was brought to their
attention and they resubmitted an assignment.
MOTIONS
Councilman Smalley MOVED for approval of the assignment of lease
for security purposes, Lot 3, Block 4, GAA, Adolf to Bob's Pawn,
Inc. and W.W. Wilson, III. Councilman Bookey SECONDED the
motion. There were no objections. so ORDERED.
H-S. Discussion - Assisted Living Center.
City Manager Ross referred to his and Attorney Graves' memorandum
to council which was included in the packet. The memorandum
discussed theirs and Bond Counsel Klinkner's recommended
procedures for the use of revenue bonds.
Leo Grasso, Continuum Corporation introduced Mark Thomas of
Progressive Capital to speak in regard to their proposed use of
the city's bonding authority.
City Manager Rose - Referred to the memorandum included in the
packet. He added, after reviewing the issue with the Finance
Director and City Attorney, and conversations with Mr. Grasso,
the memorandum was produced with copies of the Charter and Code
in regard to use of bonds attached. Also included in the
memorandum was a recommended procedure for council to follow if
they wanted to entertain the proposed use of government bonds.
• KENAI CITY
FEBRUARY 51
PAGE 13
COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
1997
Mark Thomas - Thomas explained, Progressive Capital specialized
in industrial revenue bonds and housing bonds. He personally had
been working as trustee and investment banker on various bond
issues since 1981 in Washington and Utah.
Thomas explained, he believed if there is a good project, there's
a bond counsel that is trusted and the financing team is
experienced, the dangers of a bond issue and liabilities can be
mitigated. He added, it was a matter of trust. In regard to
conduit financing, the city's name would be on the bond. In this
type of financing, the proceeds are lent to the developer and the
financial liability remains with the developer. Also, in case of
a default the city would not have financial responsibility. The
real danger of the issues was if there was something illegal
going on. There has to be comfort that things are being done
correctly.
Thomas referred to Klinkner's concerns from his letter, i.e., the
city would incur liability for false or misleading information if
• the city disseminated the information with knowledge it was false
or misleading or in reckless disregard of facts. He felt that
would be fairly easy for the city to avoid.
The second grounds for difficulty would lie if, in the opinion of
bond counsel, if in fact the opinion of the city's bond counsel
was improperly given. He added, he believed it lies in trust of
the legal people protecting the city. He stated, he believed the
city's ordinance was excellent and if council follows it, based
on the recommendations (of the memorandum and Klinkner letter),
the.city should.be able to avoid the liabilities that are
possible with these bonds.
Thomas stated he has been involved with lots of bond issues and
with that, lots of successful financing. He has never been
involved in putting together a bond package that failed. He
added, he never has seen a city run into trouble with industrial
revenue bond unless there was illegal activity involved, i.e.
confiscation of funds, misrepresentation, or pgrposeful illegal
activity. He explained, an industrial revenue bond is an
economic development tool for the city. In referring to what the
city would get out of it, Thomas stated there would be about 30
jobs and community growth. He.added, he thought it would be a
legitimate way for the development of the facility if the city
was comfortable with the financing team and bond counsel. He
believed it was the equivalent liability of putting in sewer
is lines, or a new sidewalk. However, he did not recommend council
to go forward with the bonds without a lot of thought. He did
KENAI CITY
FEBRUARY 5,
PAGE .14
COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
1997
recommend council to go forward with the industrial revenue bond
as an economic tool, with discretion, following the outline of
the city's rules and if they are followed, the city should be
protected.
Williams requested Thomas to discuss situations involving
financial liability of the City of Kenai with regard to the
structuring of the bonds, financing of the project and
Possibility of a worst -case scenario, i.e. total default of the
bond by the developer.
Thomas explained: (1) The city wouldn't incur financial
responsibilities up front. If an accountant is required to
review financial statements, a bond counsel to review documents,
etc., it is understood up front those costs are to be paid by the
developer. He added, some cities charge a fee for their own
staff to review and prepare documents. He believed that would be
appropriate for the city to consider doing. (2) Once the bonds
ISare issued, they are held by a trustee bank. Requisitions are
made from the funds and as the money is expended for the project
the project starts generating funds and pays back the bondholders
through the trustee bank. If the project does not succeed, and
doesn't generate revenues for whatever reason, in these kinds of
projects, there is credit enhancement (an insurance company, a
bank, some kind of large financial institution) guaranteeing the
payment of the bond to the bondholders. In case of this project,
it would be a commercial bank which should have a national rating
of A or better.
Thomas added, Continuum is investigating two AA -rated banks the
strongest financial institutions they can arrange which should
give the city some comfort. If the development fails, the banks
are irrevocably obligated to pay the debt service to the
bondholders in a timely manner; both principal and interest.
Williams clarified, if the project goes into default, the bank
who is guaranteeing the bonds would be financially responsible
for the payments and the financial responsibility would not fall
to the city. Thomas stated, yes. Williams suggested there would
be a written guarantee included in the documents to that effect.
Thomas answered, absolutely and added, the banks name would be
on the deed of trust. He added, if there is a default, the bank
would take the property and sell it to a developer or company
they believe can run it successfully.
City Manager Ross asked Thomas if he agreed with his
nGravest
recommendation that an irrevocable letter of credit isreceived
i
• KBNAI CITY
FEBRUARY 51
PAGE 15
COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
1997
before any further procedures are taken by council. Thomas
stated he thought it appropriate. Thomas added, he believed it
would not be a serious project until a letter of credit was in
line.
Ross asked Thomas if he agreed that they (Thomas and Continuum)
had reviewed the ordinances and agreed on the process. Thomas
answered yes. Ross added, Council now needed to agree
philosophically that they agreed with funding a program using the
city's bonding authority and these were the processes to be
followed. Ross adddd, that was where council was at now,
determining whether to use the revenue bonding authority in the
City of Kenai in this manner. Also, that Continuum and Thomas
have the ordinances, Charter and recommended procedures which he
(Thomas) has stated the other party has agreed to follow. Ross
asked if Thomas agreed. Thomas stated yes. Attorney Graves
added, the city was not making any commitment at this time.
Councilman Bookey asked if using industrial revenue bonding for
10 this project would impact the city's government obligation
bonding capacity? Finance Director Semmens answered, no and
added, the State had a cap of $150 million for these types of
revenue bonds. The State bond boards would have to approve the
use of the industrial bonds. He added, through his discussions
It with them, he has their assurances the bond board would approve
the use.
Williams referred to the Klinkner letter and concerns included in
it and stated he thought the biggest things the council should be
concerned about is the city does not involve itself in anything
false or misleading and the counsel assures council there are no
false or misleading statements in the package. Also, the city
should disclaim any issues that may cause the city concern with
regard to false statements and misinformation.
Williams added, he didn't think the concern would be false
statements and misleading information, because that would be
reviewed thoroughly by the AA bank putting up the cash guarantee.
He said, he thought the city's concern should be that there is an
absolute, undeniable understanding of responsibility by the bank
that they are responsible for the payments and the city is not.
After council comes to that conclusion, he felt it would as safe
an investment as any other the city could make.
Thomas stated, there are bond issues where the city would have
• liability, but this was not one of them.
• RENAI CITY
FEHRUARY 5,
PAGE 16
�J
•
COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
1997
Williams stated he would support the continuation of the
examination of the potential for the city's involvement and would
agree to administration's recommendation -not to waive any
requirements of the city code. Ross stated, whether or not
council decided to use revenue bond authority in this manner was
council's decision. He added, Continuum had agreed on the
processes in accordance with the ordinances and administration
had taken a conservative approach. If council decides to proceed
forward, the ball was in Continuum's court. Ross added, Thomas
had agreed council should not proceed any further until a letter
of credit is produced by a commercial bank and a proposal is
presented. Thomas agreed and added, he thought this was the wise
direction to take.
MOTION$
Councilman Smalley MOVED for the city to continue to
this process with the Continuum Corporation and that
of the memorandum as spelled out, requirements in th
VOTES
Moore: Yes Measles: Yes Bannock:
Smalley: Yes Williams: Yes Bookey:
Swarner: Yes
NOTION BA88ED UNANIMOUSLY.
EXECUTIVE BEBB ON - None Scheduled,
I-1. Mayor
e
Absent
Yes
Ake Economic Development Assembly - Williams requested a
date be scheduled to sponsor a discussion with the top 40
property taxpayers, top 20 sales taxpayers, and ten top personal
property taxpayers, as well as other citizens/business owners of
the community in regard to the promotion of economic development
in the city. Williams added, he had already heard from one
organization of the community has offered to co -host the assembly
by sponsoring a breakfast. Council agreed it would be a good
idea and chose April 26 at 9:00 a.m. as the date. The place
• KENAI CITY
FEBRUARY 5v
PAGE 17
COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
1997
would be identified later. Williams requested council's
permission to go forward with the assembly and for administration
to work on the invitation list and mailing the invitations.
There were no objections from council.
Councilman Bookey requested the Kenai Chamber of Commerce Board
Members be included on the invitation list. There were no
objections.
b. Goals i Objectives Work session - Williams requested
council to schedule a work session to review the goals and
objectives list and council agreed with Williams• suggested date
of May 14. Williams noted, May 14 would be after the economic
development assembly on April 26 and what is garnered from that
assembly may be included with the goals and objectives of
council.
t-a. City Manager
No report.
s-3@ attorney
a. BOR Lands - Graves noted Councilwoman Swarner had asked
for an update (during last work session) in regard to the
potential trade of BOR lands, along the golf course, for other
recreational property. The trade of the lands would allow the
golf course lots to be sold as residential lots. Graves
suggested -he investigate the possibility of their releasing those
lots in order for the city to sell them, placing the money
received from the sale into a trust account. The sale monies
would then be used to purchase property for recreational use.
Graves added, during the last discussions in regard to a land
swap, the subordinates were sympathetic to a swap, but those in
charge were not.
Swarner requested Graves to proceed and council agreed.
s-se city clerk
a. Conflict of Interest Forms - Clerk Freas noted she had
distributed the 1997 Conflict of Interest Forms for council to
prepare and return to her on or before April 15.
b. Budget Draft - Freas requested council to review the
draft of the Legislative budget she prepared and return any
additions or changes to her by Wednesday, February 12.
• KENAI CITY
FEBRUARY 5j,
PAGE 18
COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
1997
c. Kenai Alternative school Graduation - Freas noted a
letter from the Kenai Alternative School which was included in
the packet. The letter requested a donation toward their
graduation activities. Freas reminded council they had included
$100 in the 1996/97 budget for this purpose.
d. Kenai Central High school graduation - Freas noted a
letter from the KCHS After -Graduation Committee in which they
requested a donation toward their activities as well as a waiver
of the Recreation Center use fee. Freas reminded council they
had included $300 in the 1996/97 budget for this purpose.
However, the request for waiving of the Recreation Center use fee
woud be brought to the Parks & Recreation Commission at their
meeting on February 6. She suggested, if council approved of the
fee waiver, they could include it in a motion, but contingent on
the Commission's decision.
MOTION:
Councilman Smalley MOVED to donate $100 to the Kenai Alternative
School and $300 to the KCHS After -Graduation Committee.
councilwoman Swarner 8ECONDRD the motion. Smalley requested
VMIMOUS CONSENT. There were no objections. 00 ORDERED,
MOTION:
Councilman Smalley MOVED based on the discussion of the Parks &
Recreation Commission meeting tomorrow night that an arrangement
be made pending that decision between the City of Kenai
Recreation Center and Kenai High -School for after -graduation
activities. Councilman Measles SECONDED the motion. There were
no objections. 80 ORDERED.
1-8. Finance Director
Finance Director Semmens reported he would attend the February 19
Coalition meeting at which personal property and sales taxes
would be discussed. He requested council forward any thoughts
they had on the subjects to him or attend the meeting.
2-6. Public Works Director
Public Works Director Kornelis reported the following:
a. Mission street Project - DOT.received word from Federal
isHighways the environmental document on the Mission Street project
had been approved. Federal Highways did give their go-ahead with
•
•
•
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
FEBRUARY 5, 1997
PAGE 19
the underground conduit and junction boxes for the lighting
system. He added, DOT thought the city would have to bid the
light poles and fixtures at a later date. He was still trying to
get an answer on the light bases.
Kornelis added, DOT had been hanging onto the plans because of a
federal requirement that says they are not to start the plan
review, right-of-way or utilities until the environmental
document is approved. DOT is now starting the review and want an
additional three weeks to complete the review. They believe the
public hearing would be held the first part of March. They did
assure him the project was on DOT's bidding list for April.
b. Wellhouse No. 3 - Kornelis reported Wellhouse No. 2 had
a broken gasket which caused the wellhouse to flood. It was down
for three days, but was now repaired and back up and running.
They did have the back up of the tanks, so there was no real
danger. Wellhouse No. 3 was running and doing real well. There
have been a lot of compliments in regard to the water. The
contractor was finalizing punch list items.
I-7. Airport Manager
No report.
Mayor Williams recognized Pat Porter and Bob Frates for receiving
the Kenai Chamber of Commerce's Community Service Awards for
theirfs and their department's work with the Senior Center and
Parks & Recreation Department.
ZTEMJt DISCUSSION
Citizens
None.
J-2. Council
Hookey - Thanked the team who made the ARFF presentation at
the beginning of the meeting. He felt it was an excellent
presentation that would make the council's decision very easy.
Swarner - Stated her concern that were vehicles being parked
on the City Hall lawn. She added, the Parks & Recreation
• Department works hard to have the lawn look nice during the
summer and vehicles should not be parked on it as it is not
KENAI CITY
FEBRUARY 5,
PAGE 20
COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
1997
healthy for the lawns. Some of the vehielWasparlack g on of parking
the lawn
are city vehicles. She didn't feel they
spaces in the lot and street parking could also be used. She
suggested city and Health Center employees enot
park
ediinn the
front
lot when they houldpark ilo k at whatareas.
they do that affects other
the
city departmentsis s
city departments.
Moore - Also complimented Chief Burnett on the presentation
and added, it was very well done.
Measles - Agreed with the compliments of the ARFF
presentation.
Smalley - Stated he also appreciated the presentation and
added, it would help make his decision eeveryone. easy.Smalley also
agreed that education was the future for
Smalley also reported a meeting would be held at the Lake Clark
office in regard to its planned • closing*
seinformed councilentatives he
will make the decision will be theyedecision had already
would be attending the meet�eng and
felt
possibility the office
been made. Smalley stated hrewas a
would stay open to some degree. Ross stated from his last
discussion on the matter, he felt they would have a summer
presence in the office only.
Smalley asked if council would object to purchasing an airline
ticket for a councilmember to attend the "Experience Challenger'
in Seattle as he would like to attend. He added, he believed the
city would have something to gain from
the Smalley noted there
will be -
very much involved in the Challenger Center
was sufficient funds in the Legislative travel budget. There
were no objections to Smalley s request.
r
The council meeting adjourned at approximately 10:03 p.m*
s transcribed_and submitted by:
Carol Freas, City Clerx
e ..