HomeMy WebLinkAbout1995-12-20 Council MinutesAGENDA
KENAI CITY COUNCIL - RZGULAR MEETING
DECEMBER 20o 199
7:00 P.M.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1. Pledge of Allegiance
2. Roll Call
3. Agenda Approval
4. Consent Agenda
*All items listed with an- asterisk (*Y are,omnsiderel
to be routine and non -controversial r t%e: xunci3''and
will be approved by one m'otion.. There will use no.
separate discussion of these as unless, a Council
Member so requests, in which cafe; the ites, will be
removed from the Consent Agenda ind considered in its.
normal sequence on the agenda as Irrt of the General
Orders.
it. SCHEDULED PUBLIC
C. PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. Resolution No. 95-77 - Establishinq the Att esrized
Signatures for Withdrawal'Pion Depositorie's of
Municipal Funds.
2. Resolution No. 95-78 - Transferring $2,000 in the
Airport M&O,Special Revenue Fu `,for Installation of
Interior and Exterior Electrical Plug-lns in the New
Carport Building.
3. Resolution No® 95-79 - Tr erzfng $1,200 ;n the
Airport Terminal Enterprise for Install4t on of
Electrical. Outlets.
4. Resolution No. 95-80 - Supporting the C p'stion of txe
Kenai Spur Unity Trail Pedeatrian/Rike Pith -and the
Kenai Spur Highway Expansion ftq: 66t, in the Phases as
originally Scheduled, as a Number -One Priority on the
National Highway System.
5. Resolution No® 95-81 - RecogmzIng t or al and
Economic Importance of the Ala a, Comme'ri cial ,Salmon
Fishing Industry and Opposing tr IV I.S.F. Initiative.
4. Approval - Assignment of Lease for Security Purposes -
Lot 9, Block 1, Cook Inlet Industrial Air Park from
Ronald Johnson and Charles Grimm to First National Bank
of Alaska.
5. Approval - 1996 Alaska Municipal League Membership Dues
- $1,893.00.
6. Approval - Department of Health & Social Services
Agreement - City Hall.
7. Discussion - Possible Amendments to the Polices and
Procedures - Leif Hansen Memorial Park.
8. Discussion - National Flood Insurance.
9. Discussion State Transportation Needs and Priorities.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
I. ADMINISTRATION REPORTS
1.
Mayor
2.
City Manager
3.
Attorney
4.
City Clerk
5.
Finance Director
6.
Public Works Director
7.
Airport Manager
.T. DISCUSSION
1. Citizens (five minutes)
2. Council
K. ADJOURNMENT
-3-
KENAI CITY COUNCIL - REGULAR MEETING
December 20, 1995
7:00 P.M.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
MAYOR JOHN J. WILLIAMS, PRESIDING
ITEM A: CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Williams called the meeting to order at approximately 7:00
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: Measles,
Bannock, Smalley, Williams, Bookey, Swarner and Moore.
A-5.
AGENDA APPROVAL
Mayor Williams requested the following changes to the agenda:
ADD AS: B-1, James McCubbins - Eagle Scout Project/Welcome to
Kenai sign for north end of town.
ADD AS: B-2, Dick Hultberg - Request amendment to code
regarding placing of advertisement fliers on vehicles.
ADD TO: C-5, Resolution No. 95-81 - Additional Information:
Resolution No. 91-2 (supporting the eastside Cook Inlet
setnet fishery) and Council Meeting minutes of 2/6/91
in regard to Reso. 91-2.
ADD TO: G-1, Old Business - Additional Information for Timber
Sales discussion:
a. 12/18/95 P.O. Hansen letter (reed 12/20/95).
b. Kenai Peninsula Resource Conservation
and Development District report of Timber
Operators and Owners Workshop (reed
12/20/95)
ADD TO: I-2, City Manager's Report - 12/20/95 TM letter
regarding FAA Antenna Farm.
• y.
Councilman Smalley MOVED for approval of the agenda as amended
and requested UNANIMOUS CONSENT. Councilman Bookey SECONDED the
motion. There were no objections. SO ORDERED.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 2
A-6. CONSENT AGENDA
There were no changes made to the consent agenda. Mayor Williams
noted the consent agenda would stand as presented.
ITEM Bs SCHEDULED PUBLIC COMMENT
B-1. James MoCubbins - Eagle Scout Project/Welcome to
Kenai sign for north end of town.
McCubbins explained that he is working toward an Eagle Scout
award and wants to place a "welcome to Kenai" sign at the north
end of town. McCubbins reminded council that he had requested
permission to place the sign and financial assistance from the
city a few years ago, but that the money had lapsed. McCubbins
requested re -approval of the funding.
McCubbins explained that he would be requesting aid from
carpenters and friends to help him complete the project, and
requested permission to use the city shop during the day. He
will also be using the KCHS shop. He plans on placing the sign
in the spring.
Smalley referred to minutes nf the 1991 meeting in which
Mccubbins originally requested financial help from the city.
Smalley asked if an encroachment permit has been received.
Public Works Director Kornelis explained that he referred
McCubbins to George Church at DOT in regard to placing the sign
in the state right-of-way. Kornelis added, he checked with the
city's Building Official and found that he will not be needing a
city encroachment permit as the sign is an informational sign.
McCubbins explained he planned to use redwood slants with wooden
letters on the face of the sign. It would be a one-sided sign
with the lettering to be seen coming into the city from the
north.
Councilwoman Swarner suggested the sign include a "thank you for
visiting Kenai" on the back side to be read leaving Kenai going
toward Nikiski. Mayor Williams requested a more detailed picture
of the sign with actual dimensions, etc. for the city file.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 3
MOTION:
Councilman Smalley MOVED that the City assist Mr. McCubbins in
sponsoring his Eagle Scout project for this sign on the north
entrance of town for a cost not -to -exceed amount of $1,000.
Councilwoman Swarner SECONDED the motion. There were no
objections. SO ORDERED.
B-1. Dick Hultberg - Request amendment to code regarding
placing of advertisement fliers on vehicles.
Mr. Hultberg stated his address to be 1618 Fathom Drive in Kenai.
Hultberg explained that he recently attended the bazaar at the
Kenai Central High School during the Thanksgiving holiday. While
there, he found there were various groups in the area who placed
advertisement fliers on the windshields of vehicles using the
parking lot at the school. Hultberg stated he found the fliers
to be a nuisance as they come loose from the vehicles and they
become trash to be picked up during the spring clean-up.
Hultberg requested an ordinance to make people who place the
fliers, be responsible for cleaning up the loose fliers.
Councilman Bookey asked if the Code covered this problem.
Attorney Graves stated he would do a report on handbills and what
other communities have done to circumvent the problem. Council
requested Graves to investigate the matter and report back for
the next council meeting.
ITEM C: PUBLIC HEARINGS
C-1. Resolution No. 95-77 - Establishing the Authorized
Signatures for Withdrawal From Depositories of
Municipal Funds.
MOTION:
Councilman Smalley MOVED for approval of Resolution No. 95-77 and
Councilman Measles SECONDED the motion.
There were no public or council comments.
VOTE:
`" There were no objections. SO ORDERED.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 4
C-2. Resolution No. 95-78 - Transferring $2,000 in the
Airport M&O Special Revenue Fund for Installation of
Interior and Exterior Electrical Plug -Ins in the New
Carport Building.
MOTION:
Councilman Measles MOVED for adoption of Resolution No. 95-78 and
Councilman Smalley SECONDED the motion.
There were no public comments. Councilman Bookey asked if work
on the project had begun. Airport Manager Ernst explained that
the work had begun and apologized for that. However, Ernst
further explained that Finance Director Sweeney brought it to his
attention the project was not a repair and maintenance project,
but a capital improvement project, and because the cost was over
$1,000, it had to come to council to move funding from the Repair
and Maintenance Account to the Special Revenue Fund. Otherwise,
it would have been within the limits of his authority to write a
purchase order for $2,500.
Councilman Bookey stated his concern that the cost of this
particular project had gone over budget and stated he was not
comfortable in spending any more money on the project. Bookey
asked if any more doors or heaters were to be added to the
project. Ernst replied, doors would be added at some time, but
they do not plan to put heat in the structure.
Bookey stated his distress with the project and that it had gone
out of control. He would have liked to have the costs included
in the regular budget and carry it through or have the council
set a priority at budget time.
Williams noted the resolution included a statement from the
Finance Director explaining it is an authorization to spend money
for a capital asset which will be depreciated in the future.
Councilman Moore asked Finance Director Sweeney what the city's
capitalization policy is for capital assets. Sweeney answered,
assets that are in excess of $1,000 and have a useful life in
excess of one year. For an improvement to a building, the
aggregate is investigated. If the aggregate meets those two
requirements, and either provides a new function to the building
or will extend the useful life of the building or asset, then it
is capitalized as an improvement to the building.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 5
141Q�F
Measles: Yes
Williams: Yes
Moore: Yes
MOTION PASSED.
Bannock: Yes
Bookey: No
Smalley: Yes
Swarner: No
C-3. Resolution No. 95-79 - Transferring $1,200 in the
Airport Terminal Enterprise Fund for Installation of
Electrical Outlets.
MOTION:
Councilman Measles MOVED for adoption of Resolution No. 95-79 and
Councilman Smalley SECONDED the motion.
There were no public comments. Councilwoman Swarner asked if
this work had begun. Ernst answered yes and added, the work was
started because the ditching was done prior to the frost. Again,
it was a $1,200 authorization, which at the time, believing it
was a repair and maintenance item, he thought he had the
authority to go forward with the project. Ernst explained
outlets which had been available for use, had been removed so the
Structure COu ld he ,,laced d =tid ml, e1' _ • A
r •.`z' •• p .:g n5 �n81..e the
building and added two sets of plug -ins for the outside of the
building so that when city employees fly out, they can plug in
their vehicles. The rest of the funding would be to extend
outlets for the general employees of the terminal.
Measles asked how many outlets were to be placed. Ernst
explained, two banks of four inside the building and two banks of
two on the backside of the building. There would be one for
every two parking spaces beyond that. Those would be on
pedestals of banks of four -- approximately four pedestals in the
employee parking area. The pedestals are those left over from
the original construction of the new portion of the terminal.
Measles asked if the availability of plug -ins for general
employees of the terminal at that end of the building, would be a
problem if they are not available for other employees' use.
Ernst answered, there are outlets on the other side of the
terminal (restaurant and car rentals). Measles asked if a
terminal employee could complain that plug -ins are available for
some and not for all. Ernst answered, there could be complaints
from someone not working on the north side of the building.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 6
Ernst added, there may be a problem if another airline would rent
in the terminal. There are more pedestals available for use.
Councilman Bannock asked if the availability of plug -ins was
something new. Ernst answered it is new, as far as making free
plug -ins available to terminal employees. The car rental
agencies pay for their plug -ins. They are metered separately.
Councilman Measles stated his concern that the cost for use of
the plug -ins on one side of the building would be absorbed by the
city, but on the other end, are not.
Ernst explained the plug -ins have not been placed for the
terminal employees. If council does not want them placed, they
do not have to be. The wiring is now up to that area, but has
not been placed for those plug -ins. The only plug -ins available
would be those for the city employees use (which are situated on
the building). Those were included in Resolution No. 95-78.
Ernst added, as soon as he found he was in err, he had the work
stopped.
Williams asked who would be using the plug -ins. Measles and
Ernst answered, the airline employees. Ernst added, the airline
employees requested them and he did not think it would be a
Problem. Measles stated he would not have a nroblem with making
the plug -ins available, if the plug -ins at the other end of the
terminal would be available under the same conditions.
Ernst stated that could be a problem as the restaurant parking
area is the only place where the city would have the choice of
paying the costs for the plug -ins. It is not included in the car
rental agencies' contracts for the city to supply electricity to
the plug -ins. Measles suggested that if the airlines want plug -
ins, they should install a meter and pay for the electricity like
the restaurant or car rental agencies would do if they elected to
turn the power on to their plug -ins. Measles added, all the
lessees should be treated the same.
Ernst stated he would prefer council to say no to placing the
plug -ins for the terminal employee use if they do not feel
comfortable in making them available. The work is at a point
where it does not have to be done, except those for the city
employees.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 7
Councilman Bannock stated he would like to see the plug -ins there
if there is a need for them. However, he would like them to be
on a meter by whatever business is responsible for using them,
like at the other end of the building.
Councilman Smalley stated he did not have a problem having the
plug -ins metered. He agreed with Measles' concerns in regard to
having free use of plug -ins for one and not the other. Swarner
asked what the cost would be for a meter. Ernst suggested $100
to $200 for a 100 amp meter.
MOTION:
Councilwoman Swarner MOVED to table the resolution and Councilman
Measles SECONDED the motion. There were no objections. SO
ORDERED.
C-4. Resolution No. 95-80 - Supporting the Completion of the
Kenai Spur Unity Trail Pedestrian/Bike Path and the
Kenai Spur Highway Expansion Project, in the Phases as
originally Scheduled, as a Number -One Priority on the
National Highway System.
MOTION:
Councilman Smalley MOVED for approval of Resolution No. 95-80 and
Councilman Bookey SECONDED the motion.
There were no public comments. Councilman Smalley stated his
concern of the statement in the resolution "a number -one
priority." However, he felt the trail was needed and would
support the resolution. Councilman Bannock stated he did not
support the placing of the bike trail as a "number -one priority."
Public Works Director Kornelis explained the resolution was
brought forward after the council's luncheon with area
legislators. The pedestrian bike path is part of the highway
project. The DOT has re -prioritized projects and that
information was available as Item H-9. The new listing names a
lot of projects as number -one priorities. The concern is that
DOT moved the completion of the Spur Highway project, at the
Soldotna end, lower on the list, from a number -one priority to a
number -three priority.
Bannock stated he believes the completion of the highway is a
major priority, but did not believe the bike path is either a
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 8
number -one priority or a priority. Measles agreed that the
completion of the highway should be a much higher priority than
the bike path.
Kornelis further explained the new ratings of the state's
highway, etc. projects. Kornelis noted the DOT changed the
priority of the Soldotna end of the Spur Highway from a number -
one to a number -three priority as a National Highway Project.
They also left the bike trail as a number -one priority under the
TRACK program. Measles suggested the resolution be re -written
and remove all references to the bike trail, emphasizing the
completion of the highway project and not the bike trail
(heading, the therefore paragraph and, remove the fifth whereas).
Councilman Smalley suggested a second resolution be produced for
support of the Unity Trail. Williams suggested Resolution No.
95-80 state that the completion of the Spur Highway Project was
moved to a number -three priority and should be upgraded to a
number -one priority.
MOTION:
Councilman Smalley MOVED to table Resolution No. 95-80 and
present it at the next meeting with a complete re -write of this
document, sneaking specifically to the Spur Highway Expansion
Project and a separate resolution speaking to the pedestrian bike
bath. Councilwoman Swarner SECONDED the motion. There were no
objections. SO ORDERED.
C-5. Resolution No. 95-81 - Recognizing the Social and
Economic Importance of the Alaska Commercial Salmon
Fishing Industry and Opposing the F.I.S.H. Initiative.
MOTION:
Councilman Moore MOVED for approval of Resolution No. 95-81 and
Councilwoman Swarner SECONDED the motion.
There were no public comments. Williams noted that he included
copies of Resolution 91-2 to point out that the council has had a
policy of being very careful between its support of either the
sport or commercial fishing industries. However, the council has
always stated that proper biological information and proper
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 9
biological allocation should be uppermost in the State's desire
to control the fishery and the fisheries should not come under a
political situation in regard to allocation.
Councilman Moore explained the Initiative, on the surface, may
appear harmless, but if looking at it more closely, it could
impact Cook Inlet more than in any other part of the state. The
problem with the Initiative in that it is not region -specific,
but based on statewide salmon harvest. Some of the definitions
of the Initiative are that harvest need is harvest capability or
what you need equals what you are capable of harvesting. Also,
the Initiative is based on projections and not actual runs.
Moore also added that of the top ten taxpayers in the city, three
of them are fish processors.
Councilman Bannock stated he knows little about salmon harvesting
and would prefer not making a decision until the other side of
the topic is heard. Bannock added, he would not be comfortable
in voting on the resolution at the meeting.
Ron Rainey - Rainey reported that a representative of F.I.S.H.
Fairness in Salmon Harvest is scheduled to speak at the Kenai
Chamber of Commerce in the next few weeks. He also would like to
hear both sides of the issue.
Councilman Bookey agreed with waiting on a vote until after
hearing both sides of the topic.
Williams suggested a change be made in the "now, therefore"
paragraph. The paragraph should read: Now, therefore,...,
Alaska, recognizes the social and economic importance of the
Alaska commercial salmon fishing industry to our community and to
the State of Alaska and that we oppose the passage of the
F.I.S.H. Initiative. An addition to the last whereas should also
be made, i.e., ...Board of Fisheries through sound biological
information rather than political consideration.
MOTION:
Councilman Bannock MOVED to table Resolution No. 95-81 and
Councilman Bookey SECONDED the motion.
Measles requested the resolution be brought back for
consideration of council at the January 17, 1996 meeting. Moore
noted that date would be after the deadline for submitting
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 10
signatures for the legislature. Measles stated they could
proceed with the signatures, and the Legislature would not have
acted on anything at that time. There would still be time to
address the matter with the Legislature.
Moore added that if the Legislature does not act, the Board of
Fisheries will have to vote on it. It is more than the
Legislature involved.
C-6. Resolution No. 95-82 - That the City of Kenai Goes on
Record Supporting the Permit Applications of the Beaver
Creek Bank Restoration and Protection Group Submitted
to Various Agencies and Directs That This Resolution be
Sent to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game and to
the Applicants.
Councilman Measles MOVED for adoption of Resolution No. 95-82 and
Councilman Smalley SECONDED the motion.
Ron Rainey - Rainey (the applicant requesting the resolution)
explained there are two hurdles to cross: one, the permit to get
the project underway and, two, requesting matching funds from the
Exxon Valdez Trustee Council for the project: Rainey added there
is no one else in the city of Kenai applying for the funds.
However, there are 66 other applicatants in other areas
requesting funds.
Williams asked Kornelis if the city applied for Exxon Valdez
Restoration funding for projects inside the city. Kornelis
answered yes. Rainey corrected his statement as no other
individuals in the city have applied for matching funds.
VOTE:
There were no objections to the motion. SO ORDERED.
C-7. 1996 Liquor License Renewal Application - Mr. D's/Don's
Again - Tourism.
Approved by consent agenda.
BREAK TAKEN: 7:56 P.M.
BACK TO ORDER: 8:13 P.M.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 11
ITEM Ds COMMISSION/COMMITTEE REPORTS
D-1. Council on Aging
Councilwoman Swarner reported the minutes of the recent meeting
were included in the packet. Swarner added there was a lengthy
discussion about smoking at the Congregate Housing complex.
Swarner added, the topic would come to council in a future
meeting.
Williams noted the discussion in the minutes regarding placing
automatic front doors at the Center. Williams suggested
Administration prepare a cost estimate to place automatic front
doors and include the information in the next budget. Adding the
doors will make the building more in line with the ADA
requirements.
Administration was directed to include cost estimates, etc. in
the budget for discussion.
D-2. Airport Commission
Councilman Measles reported the minutes of the recent meeting
were included in the packet. He did not attend the meeting.
Williams requested Administration investigate the costs, etc. of
having the access ramp and canopy remodeled at the airport
terminal and place the information in the budget for discussion.
Again, the improvement would make the building more in line with
the ADA requirements.
Airport Manager Ernst noted that the building has already met the
ADA requirements. Williams stated, it may appear that the
present design meets the requirements, but he does not think it a
safe situation. Williams added, he would like a redesign of the
entryway with a more graduated ramp for better protection from
freezing. He added, he did think the grade was correct. Ernst
noted the engineer reviewed the area and said it met the
criteria.
D-3. Harbor Commission
Councilman Bookey reported the minutes of the recent meeting were
included in the packet. There were no comments.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 12
D-4. Library commission
Councilman Moore reported there was no meeting since the last
council meeting. Moore did report the open house at the library
was a huge success and that over 300 people attended.
Councilman Smalley asked if the number of card users at the
library include summer residents. Library Director De Forest
answered, the summer residents are automatically renewed by
computer. Smalley asked if 12,500 would be closer to the actual
number for use of information in the Comprehensive Plan. De
Forest answered yes.
D-5. Parks & Recreation commission
Councilman Bannock reported a meeting was held two weeks ago.
The minutes were included in the packet. Tim wisniewski was
added as a new member. Bannock added, in referring to the report
of the vandalism to the restroom at the beach, the Commission
sent along a respectful, "told you so."
Bannock suggested the building be strapped up for six months to
protect it from further damage. Smalley and Bookey agreed.
Smalley asked if the restroom at Cunningham Park was as
vulnerable as the one at the beach? If t ems, he would like both
to be banded and plywood placed around them. After a short
discussion, Williams suggested Administration protect the assets
of the city. Council agreed.
D-6. Planning & Zoning Commission
Councilman Smalley reported the minutes of the last meeting were
included in the packet. Smalley reported the Commission
discussed the National Flood Insurance Program. The Commission
was concerned that the Program could severely limit development
in the flood area. The Commission has requested a sample
ordinance be drafted and brought back to them. They want to
insure that, when reviewing a draft ordinance, the city's
protections are included and wouldn't create difficulties for the
residents.
Smalley suggested the Harbor Commission also be invited to the
work session scheduled on January 23.
The updating of the Comprehensive Plan is progressing. The
Commission also discussed the goals and objectives of other
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 13
commissions and committees. Smalley reported he suggested to the
commission that those goals and objectives be included in the
Comprehensive Plan as the group submitted. They agreed.
Smalley also reported Commissioner Booth was sworn in. The
Commission has a full body at this time.
Clerk Freas referred to a letter included in the packet from Mr.
Verdugo requesting the Planning & Zoning Commission meeting be
changed to January 16 so that they can more easily schedule their
visit to Kenai. They plan to make a presentation at the January
17 council meeting and would also like to make a presentation to
the Planning & Zoning Commission. Moving the meeting would help.
Freas suggested a special Commission meeting be held and that way
there would not be added pressure in regard to public hearings,
etc. which may have to be advertised, etc.
Council directed that the Planning & Zoning Commission be
requested to hold a special meeting on January 16, 1996.
D-7. Miscellaneous commissions and Committees
Historic District Board - Council referred to the memorandum
included in the packet in regard to the December 26, 1995
scheduled meeting of the Board. Because there is a shortage of
members and it was expected that there would not be a quorum of
the active members for the upcoming meeting, Council directed the
meeting to be cancelled.
Challenger Learning Center - Councilman Bannock gave a brief
report on the Steering Committee's most recent meeting. The
Committee developed a list of questions to review at each
meeting. Also, a local radio personality, who had been very
negative in regard to the Committee's efforts, attended the
meeting and left it with a very positive attitude.
Williams noted that he found six possible funding sources for the
Center and has passed the information on to Kathy Scott.
ITEM E• MINUTES
E-1. Regular Meeting of December 6, 1995.
Approved by consent agenda.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 14
ITEM F•
ITEM Gt OLD BUSINESS
G-1. Discussion - Timber Sales on City Land; Resource
Conservation and Development.
Mark Hodgins - Introduced the purpose of the Kenai Peninsula
Resource Conservation and Development District (RC&DD) as a
resource to connect timber owners with small timber operators.
The RC&DD will be working closely with the Economic Development
District.
Hodgins reviewed selective harvesting and the local timber
operators' use of timber. Hodgins encouraged the city to
consider selectively logging the beetle -killed trees on the
Section 36 lands and other city -owned lands. Hodgins offered his
help in connecting the city with local harvesters. Hodgins also
reported he has a youth enterprise group at Nikiski High School
who would, for a small fee, survey the properties for a count of
the beetle -killed trees and estimate the value.
City Manager Manninen stated that in his discussion with Mr.
uneininc a nni�r�lo of a.r Ira arcn he indinated he had different
people willing to service different tracts. For instance, there
may be some people that might want to go into Municipal Park, if
we were to mark some of the dead and dying trees in there and
harvest for firewood burning, half -a -dozen trees. But the area
in Section 36, you probably want to get a bigger operator in and
get crews and get the trees identified and decide what to do
there and probably that land could be cleared for little or no
net cost to the city by the time money is received from the
timber operator. The roads would end up being put in and the
dead trees out of there. That is his hope.
There are other areas, perhaps the Parks people could identify
Cunningham Park, Municipal Park, other parks that there may be a
few trees and that could be marked and let people go in and take
out if they meet the requirements that the city has. We wouldn't
want any liability, insurance -wise and we wouldn't have them
hiring half -a -dozen people and having people get hurt in there.
But, if a single people working for themselves and may not
require the Worker's Compensation and having hired people working
for them. It may be a workable situation then for small parcels.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 15
Councilman Smalley stated he reviewed the documents included in
the packet. Smalley asked if the road right-of-ways are marked
in Section 36. If they are not, they would not be able to be
done. If they are, what happens to the liability of the city if
someone would take trees outside of the road right-of-way?
Another concern was the question included in Kornelis' memorandum
(included in the packet) which asked if the city would want to
take all dead and infested trees of over 911. Smalley stated he
would want any healthy tree, even over 9" to remain. Smalley
thought it a poor choice of words to say the city would want the
land "cleared."
Councilman Bookey stated he did not have a problem with logging
the city land. However, the logging industry is an extremely
dangerous industry, and the city would need to be very, very
careful to draw up whatever is needed to ensure the liability for
the city is non-existent.
Williams referred to Dr. Hansen's letter, distributed at the
beginning of the meeting. Williams stated that at some time in
the future, the city may want to have the right-of-ways in
Section 36 surveyed, etc. and encourage development of the area,
i.e. approaching Princess Lodge that land is available in the
city conducive to a rural lodge setting. Williams suggested the
City should investigate the cost for having the area surveyed.
Measles agreed that the city should find out what it would cost
to have the right-of-ways surveyed in Section 36. At this time
the city owns land adjacent to each of the rights -of -way. If
there is no development in that area soon, the city may own more.
Administration was asked to investigate the cost of surveying all
the road right-of-ways within Section 36 (the centerline of the
road).
ITEM H: NEW BUSINESS
H-1. Bills to be Paid, Bills to be Ratified
MOTION:
Councilman Smalley MOVED for approval of Item H-1 and Councilman
Bookey SECONDED the motion. There were no objections. SO
ORDERED.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 16
H-2. Purchase Orders Exceeding $2,500
Councilman Measles MOVED for approval of the purchase orders
exceeding $2,500 and Councilman Smalley SECONDED the motion.
There were no objections. SO ORDERED.
H-3. Ordinance No. 1670-95 - Amending KMC Section 23.35.020
to Subject Employees to Disciplinary Action for Failure
to Comply With the City's Drug and Alcohol Abuse and
Testing Policy or Failure to Comply with City, State or
Federal Safety and Health Law, Regulations and Policy.
Approved by consent agenda.
H-4. Approval - Assignment of Lease for Security Purposes -
Lot 9, Block 1, Cook Inlet Industrial Air Park from
Ronald Johnson and Charles Grimm to First National Bank
of Alaska.
MOTION:
Coouncilman Smalley MOVED for approval of the Assignment of Tease
for Security Purposes - Lot 9, Block 1, Cook Inlet Industrial Air
Park from Ronald Johnson and Charles Grimm to First National Bank
of Alaska. Councilman Measles SECONDED the motion.
Attorney Graves reported administration had no objections to the
assignment.
VOTE:
There were no objections to the motion of approval. SO ORDERED.
H-5. Approval - 1996 Alaska Municipal League Membership Dues
- $1,893.00.
MOTION:
Councilman Bookey MOVED to approve the 1996 Alaska Municipal
league Membership dues in the amount of $1,893.00. Councilwoman
Swarner SECONDED the motion.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 17
Swarner asked if the dues were the same amount as last year.
Clerk Freas answered no, the amount was about double that of last
year.
Bookey reminded council that the cost was more because the
Borough said they would prorate the cost and then didn't. A
discussion followed about the phase -in of higher dues. Measles
noted that the shortfall will only be in the Kenai Peninsula
Borough. However, the shortfall is not as big as was initially
thought.
VOTE:
There were no objections to the motion. SO ORDERED.
H-6. Approval - Department of Health & Social Services
Agreement - City Hall.
MOTION:
Councilwoman Swarner MOVED for the city to enter into a new
agreement with the Department of Health and Social Services for
the period February 1, 1996 through January 31, 1997 at the
current rate. Councilman Measles SECONDED the motion.
IULLLU' 1
llwoma Swarner requested
UNANIMOUS
NANTMOU0 CONSENT.
Bookey asked if there have been any discussions in regard to the
Health Department moving to the old courthouse building.
Williams stated no and added, he believed the city should
continue to urge and support a move of the Health Department to a
more appropriate facility.
VOTE:
There were no objections to the motion. SO ORDERED.
H-7. DiSCUSsion - Possible Amendments to the Polices and
Procedures - Leif Hansen Memorial Park.
Clerk Freas reviewed her memorandum which was included in the
packet. The memorandum reminded council that a letter from
Dennis and Susan Townsend was reviewed by them at their September
20, 1995 meeting. The Townsends had stated their concerns that
the Leif Hansen Memorial Park had been used for large gatherings
with bands, etc. and that type of use may be detracting from the
peaceful memorial park for which it was developed. During that
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 18
meeting, council directed the Townsend letter and a copy of the
Policies and Procedures for the park be forwarded to the
Beautification Committee for comments and then those comments be
forwarded to the Parks & Recreation Commission for their review
and comment. The comments from both the Committee and Commission
were included in the memorandum. Those comments were as follows:
Beautification Committee Comments: Recommend that the
city continue to allow groups to use Leif Hansen
Memorial Park but recommend that larger groups use
other park facilities which are better able to
accommodate them. In addition, tents and other items
should be set up away from the memorial plaques,
shrubs, etc.
Parks & Recreation Commission Comments: Given the
memorial intent of the park, the Commission recommends
to council that events of less than 50 people be
allowed to use the park, but that larger groups use the
green strip area, with administration having the final
say.
Council reviewed the comments. Councilwoman Swarner questioned
whether the park could continue to be used for weddings. Parks &
Recreation Director McGilliv ay added that the Commission's
comments were made with the understanding that weddings could
still take place at the park, knowing that there could be more
than 50 people in attendance.
Councilman Measles suggested guidelines be written for park use
with groups of over 50 people. The guidelines should state what
type of event could take place there with over 50 people.
Williams questioned whether events with small children in
attendance is necessarily offensive. Measles stated he agreed
that their presence may not be offensive, however he finds it
very offensive when children are swinging on the trees, etc. and
parents do nothing to stop it. Measles added, events that bring
larger crowds should use the green strip area.
Councilman Smalley stated he agreed with Measles and that larger
events with entertainment, etc. should use the green strip area.
There are restrooms available as well.
Swarner suggested limiting the time of use of the park to one
hour for large groups. Swarner added, during Veterans Day and
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 19
Memorial Day services, the park is not used for more than one-
half hour and many times, there are more than 50 people in
attendance. Swarner added she did not disagree with Measles in
regard to using the park for weddings, memorial services,
memorial services, etc. If there is going to be entertainment or
food, the event should be at the green strip.
Councilman Bannock stated he would like to see a definition of
activities that would be allowed, i.e. weddings, funeral,
memorial services, etc. would be acceptable. Birthday parties,
Kenai River festivals, etc. should not be there. Williams
suggested no functions be held at the park at which food is a
major part of the event. Events with food, etc., should use the
green strip where electricity, barbecues, water and restrooms are
available.
Council requested Administration to develop guidelines be
developed for use of the park. The guidelines should be brought
back to council for final review.
H-8. Discussion - National Flood Insurance.
Councilman Smalley reported the concerns of the Planning & Zoning
Commission's review of the flood insurance ordinance. Item 1.4
Of the prevention ordinanCe includes much of the Same Concerns
council had with the overlay ordinance. The ordinance could
limit or restrict development. Another concern was what kind of
cost factor would it have to the city. An estimate of cost to
the city would be the time in drafting the ordinance, cost of
advertisement of public hearings, and the policing of the
ordinance.
Smalley added that Item 1.4 was the major concern of the
Commission. However, passage of the ordinance would allow for
flood insurance to be purchased by property owners. Councilman
Measles stated the same concerns were why the city did not go
into the program in the 19801s. In the recent flood, it was
found the Borough did not police their ordinances, building
codes, and other requirements which they agreed to do when they
began their participation in the flood insurance program.
Williams stated his question was whether the city should join the
flood insurance program based on the number of people that would
be affected in the city in a historical perspective. Williams
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 20
added, most of the damage along the River was due to erosion and
not flooding. By joining the program, would the community be
done a service?
Councilman Measles asked if the acquiring flood insurance improve
the property owners' situation in order to get insurance for
flood erosion? If they went to a standard company for insurance?
Measles stated he did not believe that there was anyone inside
the city who was affected directly by the flood. The damage in
the city was bluff erosion, not flood damage. Measles added, if
the city decides to join the flood insurance program, all the
requirements of the flood insurance program would have to be
included in the city's building codes, permitting processes, etc.
Measles added, if the city was participating in the flood
insurance program, homeowners may not have been able to build
their homes where they are built. If all of what is stated in
the program is followed, insurance costs would be cheaper because
the homes wouldn't be built where they are and there would be no
risk. Smalley stated those were the discussions which Planning &
Zoning had on the subject.
Williams added, participating in the program could prevent a
contractor from developing property along the bluff. Bookey
agreed.
Council referred to the question included in City Engineer La
Shot's memorandum regarding the flood insurance program which
asked, "Should administration proceed with preparation of a
resolution and ordinance using the samples as a guideline and
begin the process of adoption? Council's answer was no.
H-9. Discussion - State Transportation Needs and Priorities.
Public Works Director Kornelis reviewed the Needs and Priorities
with council, noting that comments needed to be forwarded to the
State by January 8, 1996. Kornelis stated he would include the
topic in the next packet also in order for council to have more
time to review the information and make comments.
Kornelis noted that many of the projects listed are stated to be
in Kenai when they are not. Kornelis suggested a letter be sent
to the State suggesting they correct the locations of the
projects.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 21
Kornelis was directed to write a letter requesting the location
of the projects be corrected and ask whether the Forest Drive
improvements are in the engineering phase.
Administration was also requested to bring to the January 3, 1996
meeting, resolutions in support of the Spur Highway Expansion
Project completion in Soldotna; completion of the Unity Trail
Bike Path project; the Forest Drive/Redoubt Avenue improvements;
and the beach road project. All should be moved to priority one
status.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
None.
ITEM I: ADMINISTRATION REPORTS
I-1.
No report.
I-2.
Mayor
City Manager
FAA Antenna Farm - City .Manager Manninen referred to his
letter to Mike Tarr, Manager of the FAA Flight Service Station,
which was distributed at the beginning of the meeting.
Manninen stated the letter was sent to Mike Tarr, after the mayor
was in about a week ago and they found out the antenna farm was
being considered obsolete. After a phone call today, Mike said
to send him a letter and he would send it upstairs to the FAA
people to give some consideration to making that facility
obsolete and get back to him to specify what we want. Basically,
what we want is to get the antenna moved out and to get
possession of the property for the city and let the city operate
that property and own it, operate it, lease it, whatever the city
council decides to do with it as we do with other airport -owned
lands for the benefit of the airport and airport operations.
Tarr said it sounded like it was eligible and to send him a
letter.
Position Classification Plan - Manninen also reported that
the Position Classification Plan update should be forwarded on
January 17. The work group is finishing their interviews of
personnel this week and they plan to have something written to
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 22
him by next week and he plans to turn that around to the
department heads by the first week in January and get a final
recommendation to the council by the second meeting in January.
Both the work groups and the personnel rules update.
I-3. Attorney
Attorney Graves reported the bankruptcy hearing in the McLane
case, which had been scheduled for 12/20/95, was continued to
January. He will keep council updated.
1-4. City Clerk
City Clerk Freas reported she received a telephone call from
Liana Bigham, the Government teacher at KCHS. Ms. Bigham stated
that due to various reasons, she would request that the city's
Student Government Day be moved to January 17, 1996. This would
give her more time to prepare the students, etc. It was noted
that the semester would have ended by then and the students would
no longer be studying Government. Freas explained that the
students would be studying Sociology and the same students would
be involved with that class as were involved with the Government
class.
CounciiaTian Smalley requested permission frol .,... ..ouncat0 Speak
with the teacher and suggest that, if the concern of the school
has been to have Student Government Day when they are studying
the government portion of the senior Civic's class, that it be
done in the fall in the future instead of postponing, etc.
Council changed Government Day to January 17, 1996. Councilman
Smalley stated he would advise Ms. Bigham.
I-5. Finance Director
Finance Director Sweeney reported he prepared and distributed the
budget packet to department heads; has prepared a milestone
schedule in regard to the Thompson Park Water and Sewer
Assessment District and will include a copy of it as an
information item for the next meeting; and, will have an agenda
item for the next council meeting to set a public hearing date on
the Thompson Park Sewer and Water Special Assessment District.
Williams stated he wanted to discuss the assessments with Sweeney
and Manninen with regard to costs to the large lots in the
District. Williams added, those large lots, which cannot be
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 23
subdivided, should not be penalized by having assessments that
are four or five times as much as the other lot assessments.
Williams suggested the information be brought to council as
prepared by administration and council will then discuss it and
make any necessary changes.
I-6. Public works Director
Habitat Restoration Project - Public Works Director Kornelis
referred council to Information Item No. 2, which was his letter
to Fish & Game in regard to the Habitat Restoration Project
requests. Kornelis added, he received a call from Fish & Game
and was requested to present the information at a meeting at the
Borough. The fund will have $700,000 for distribution this year
and $500,000 the next year. Fish & Game has also informed him
they will be sending out changes in the scope of work to
applicants.
Snowblower - Kornelis also referred council to Information
No. 10 and reported the new snowblower should arrive on Friday.
He is waiting until after the city has receives the machinery
before considering the dropping of liquidated damages.
I-7. Airport Manager
No report.
ITEM J: DISCUSSION
J-1. citizens
None.
J-2. Council
Bookey - Referred to Information Item No. 8 in regard to the
contracting out the city's fueling system. Bookey stated his
concern that the item did not go to bid and whether the city
would maintain its own system or abolish it. Kornelis answered
they were looking for a facility where gas and diesel would be
available around the clock and this facility was the only one
that he found would be open.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 24
Kornelis added, the city will keep its system for awhile. They
will turn the mechanical valve off at the tanks and locking it
and keeping it for a time for emergency use. They may consider
pulling up the underground pipe between the tanks and dispensers.
They have had many problems with the dispensers now there. There
is also one other facility that has diesel available, but only
during daytime hours.
Bookey stated there may be someone in the private sector that
would be willing to put a program together if the item had gone
to bid. Bookey stated he was also concerned that the city would
split its buying power because the city purchases fuel for a
number of different facilities within the city, i.e. dock, sewer
treatment plant, airport generators, water supply tank, etc. The
city, in doing this, is diluting its ability to save money.
Bookey asked Graves if the city would exclude itself from any
liability if it would go to bid. Graves answered that if the
tank leaked and there would be a spill, the city should be
generally excluded from liability. However, if the city was
filling the vehicle tank and spilled fuel on the street, the city
would still have liability. Graves added, he believes the city
is reducing its liability, however the issue is whether the
increased price the city will pay is worth a reduced liability.
That 2S a policy Cal. zo far as bidding an RFD, the
administration's feeling is if council wants to proceed that way,
that is also a policy call.
Bookey stated that if the city is going to one dealer and that is
all that is available that is acceptable. If the city then
disassembles its fueling system, it will cease to have any
control. He hates to see the city lose its control.
Efficiently, he does not think this system will prove out for the
city and believes in the end, the city will go back to its own
system. Bookey added again, he was not comfortable with this
system.
Kornelis added, the city has had major problems with its existing
system and have used this facility because the city's dispensers
were out of service. As far as the city's liability, if they
stay with the city dispensers, there will be major work needing
to be done to that facility.
Bookey stated he had discussed that matter with the city manager
and he believes that the city hasn't justified the cost of the
tank upgrade done a few years ago.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 25
Manninen stated that expense was probably $7,500 five years ago.
In talking with people in engineering recently, after our
discussion the other day, they are estimating that if we were to
keep the system, we would need to invest at least $10,000 in
concreting around the tanks and possibly put some kind of either
new tanks up and/or hood over the tanks and some piping and some
electrical so there would be a substantial investment to keep the
system going that we have in addition to what we put in five
years ago. The question is whether it is time to cut our
liabilities and run now or continue to make the investment and
not know what's going to happen with the entire facility with the
entire program, whether even the facility is going to be there in
a year or five years and we're continuing to make a big, major
investment. That's our concern now and in addition, as the
attorney said, we could probably dump some of the liability by
going outside to the private sector now and still would retain
the flexibility later on by going back. It is a policy decision.
Bookey again stated his concern that the city did not go to an
RFP and the city will be buying $80,000 to $100,000 worth of fuel
and believes it should go to bid. Also self-sufficiency for the
city would far outweigh savings or costs. There will always be
fuel spills somewhere. The city cannot outlive that liability.
Kprielis stated he had a $2,500 purchase Order Out now. They
have not allowed the work to be done because he wanted to see if
they would contract it out. There is a lot of work to be done.
He believes the dispensers will need replacing at an approximate
cost of $10,000. In the summer, a concrete slab would need to be
placed. He believes it is urgent enough to try this system or
the city will have do something rather quickly as there is only
one pump for gas and diesel that are working.
Williams asked if the planned program could continue for now with
the understanding that when the fiscal year changes, an RFP will
be requested to allow everyone to bid.
Manninen stated that if they would do an RFP, now would be the
time to do it and take a month to have that come back and make a
decision at that time if that's what council wants to do.
Attorney Graves stated the city could buy gas for now and do an
RFP in the interim and enter into a 30-day contract until RFP
proposals are received. Administration has no objections to
putting the item out for an RFP and that is why the matter was
included in the packet for council review. Kornelis added he had
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 26
checked with stations, asking whether they are open 24 hours a
day, etc. He could ask whether they would consider staying open
to provide a service such as this or go to an RFP.
Kornelis said he was originally concerned about how the security
portion of this system would work. This facility's owners will
be placing a video camera and each employee will have their own
identification code. When the city is billed, the date, time and
who got the fuel, what equipment got the fuel, etc. If there is
a question, they can review the video to verify it. The city's
tanks will be maintained in order to have it available for
emergency use. However, they would be made secure so there would
not be a chance of leaks, etc.
Kornelis stated he could put out an RFP and have it back to
council for the January 17, 1996 meeting. Bookey stated he
really believed the city should maintain its own system as well.
Williams suggested administration bring a full report at budget
time as to what the cost would be to upgrade the facility to a
properly functioning operation. Kornelis added there are many
considerations to be included in whether to upgrade, i.e. the
future for the shop area, etc.
Williams directed that an RFP be put out as soon as possible and
do whatever is necessary for emergency fuel purchase between ...,..
and then. Council agreed.
Swarner - Stated her concern that the intersection at
Airport Way and the Spur Highway is a very sharp corner (because
of the median) with no light. Kornelis stated there will be a
signal there.
Swarner also reported she and Manninen will be involved in a
teleconference with AML regarding session topics. If council has
any requests, please forward them to her.
Williams noted the Mayors will be meeting in Juneau in January
and will be speaking to representatives of the Corrections
Department regarding the budget and corrections for the state.
Moore - Stated his concern that there is a ditch at the end
of the Spur Highway project, going toward Soldotna, that is
glaciating out nearly onto the road. Kornelis stated it has been
pointed out to DOT.
Measles - No report.
KENAI CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
December 20, 1995
Page 27
Bannock - Asked Kornelis if he had received any response to
his letter to DOT which pointed out problems with the Bridge
Access Road signal lights. Kornelis stated he had received no
response as yet.
Smalley - Suggested a second copy be sent to DOT.
ITEM K:
The meeting was adjourned at approximately 10:05 p.m.
Minutes transcribed and submitted by:
l ZZ.
Carol L. Frea§, City Clerk