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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - City Council - 1998-02-17 32 City Council, Regular Meeting City Council Chambers 1313 California Street Redding, California February 17, 1998 7:00 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance to the flag was led by Fire Chief Ken Wagner. The invocation was offered by Pastor Bob Pierce, North Valley Baptist Church. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Murray with the following Council Members present: Anderson, Kehoe, McGeorge, and Murray. Also present were City Manager Warren, Assistant City Manager Perry, City Attorney Wingate, Development Services Director Swanson, Public Works Director Russell, Deputy City Manager Starman, Support Services Director Kersten, Planning Manager Keaney, Police Chief Blankenship, Fire Chief Wagner, Airports Manager Dinger, Administrative Services Director Bachman, Senior Planner King, Housing Program Supervisor Buckley, Electric Utility Director Feider, Economic Development Asset Manager Hiller, Wastewater Superintendent Craig, Senior Planner DeMallie, Personnel Analyst Sciarra, Wastewater Collection Foreman Tasello, Housing Director Meek, City Treasurer Linville, City Clerk Strohmayer, Assistant City Clerk Moscatello, and Executive Secretary Lack. CONSENT CALENDAR The following matters were considered inclusively under the Consent Calendar: Approval of Minutes - Regular Meeting of November 4, 1997, Adjourned Regular Meeting of November 17, 1997, and Regular Meeting of November 18, 1997. Approval of Payroll and Accounts Payable Register (A-050-100-500) It is recommended that Accounts Payable Register 15, for the period February 3, 1998, through February 12, 1998, check numbers 255846 through 256194 inclusive, in the amount of$1,795,820.69 and Payroll Register 16, check numbers 45796 through 46246 inclusive, and electronic deposit transaction numbers 446293 through 446745 inclusive, totaling $1,370,968.52 for the period January 25, 1998, through February 7, 1998, be approved. TOTAL: $3,166,789.21 Ordinance No. 2208 - re Redding Municipal Code Chapter 6.32, regarding taxi fares (T-100-500) It is recommended that Ordinance No. 2208 be adopted, an ordinance of the City Council of the City of Redding amending a portion of Redding Municipal Code Chapter 6.32, vehicles for hire. Civic Center - re Amendments to architectural contract (C-050-025) It is the recommendation of the Assistant City Manager that Council approve the amendments to the architectural contract for the Civic Center by authorizing 1) the employment of Western Contract Furnishers in the amount of $21,840, 2) additional work in the amount of $17,500 for bid coordination and project phasing, 3) additional funds in the amount of$3,500 to complete security system plans and specifications, 4) additional funds in the amount of$5,500 for redesign of civil engineering, and authorized the Mayor to sign Addendum No. 5 to the architect's contract. Hilltop Drive Burn Dump (R-030-050-310) It is the recommendation of the Deputy City Manager that the City Council direct staff to work with adjacent property owners to secure the Hilltop Drive burn site from public access. The Redding Redevelopment Agency has authorized the expenditure of approximately $20,000 for fencing along Hilltop Drive. 02/17/98 33 Taylor Made Landscaping - re Extension of contract for Landscape Maintenance Districts (B-050-100 & A-170-075) It is the recommendation of the Support Services Director that City Council authorize extension of contracts for the three landscape maintenance districts with Taylor Made Landscaping in the amount of$34,350, with an option to extend the contract for one additional year. Resolution - re Arbor Day & Arbor Week (A-050-220) It is the recommendation of the Support Services Director that Resolution No. 98-17 be adopted, a resolution of the City Council of the City of Redding declaring March 6, 1998, as Community Tree Planting Day, also known as Arbor Day; and March 7-14, 1998, as Arbor Week. Capital Improvement Plan (B-130-010) It is the recommendation of the Development Services Director that City Council approve the Capital Improvement Plan for Fiscal Year 1997/98 through 2001/02. Resolution - re Abandonment Application A-8-97, by Redding Redevelopment Agency (A-010-100) It is the recommendation oc the Development Services Director that Resolution No. 98-18 be adopted, a resolution of the City Council of the City of Redding repealing Resolution No. 98-08 and declaring its intention to vacate that portion of the Canyon Creek Road right-of-way south of its intersection with Buenaventura Boulevard (A-8-97) and set a public hearing for 7:00 p.m., March 17, 1998. Resolution - re Purchase of One, half-ton, 4x4, short-bed vehicle for the Electric Utility Department (B-050-100 & A-050-125) It is the recommendation of the Electric Utility Director that Resolution No. 98-19 be adopted, a resolution of the City Council of the City of Redding authorizing the purchase of one new vehicle for the Electric Department through the Department of General Services of the State of California. The Department estimate to replace the vehicle is $20,500. Annual Report - re Electric Utility Annual Report for 1996-97 (A-050-125) It is the recommendation of the Electric Utility Director that the City Council accept the Electric Utility 1996-97 Annual Report as presented. Agreement - re Municipal Resource Consultants (MRC) (T-010-650) It is the recommendation of the Administrative Services Director that by minute order Council approve the Consulting and Professional Services Agreement with Municipal Resource Consultants (MRC) for property tax audit services, in the minimum amount of $5,000 to be paid by the Redevelopment Agency per year for a period of three years with an option to extend the contract for two additional years. Additional compensation to MRC is based on a sliding compensation scale and a ceiling. Notice of Completion - Bid Schedule No. 3125, Redding Municipal Airport Eastside Improvements Project, Phase 2 (B-050-020 & A-090-100) It is the recommendation of the Public Works Director that Bid Schedule No. 3125 (Job No. 9333) Redding Municipal Airport Eastside Improvements Project, Phase 2, awarded to River City Construction, be accepted as satisfactorily completed and the City Clerk be authorized to file a Notice of Completion. The final contract price is $678,159. Request for Payment - re Forest Hills Ranchettes, Unit 2, Oversizing of Water Main (S-100-200) It is the recommendation of the Public Works Director that City Council authorize the Finance Department to make payment to Pullen-Gunlogssen in the amount of$11,765.48 for the cost of oversizing the water main in Forest Hills Ranchettes, Unit 2, pursuant to the Master Water Plan. 02/17/98 34 MOTION: Made by Council Member McGeorge, seconded by Council Member Anderson, that all the foregoing items on the Consent Calendar be approved and adopted as recommended. Voting was as follows: Ayes: Council Members - Anderson, Kehoe, McGeorge, and Murray Noes: Council Members - None Absent: Council Members - None Abstain: Council Members - None Resolution Nos. 98-17, 98-18, 98-19, and Ordinance No. 2208 are on file in the office of the City Clerk. WASTEWATER UTILITY AWARDS (W-010 & W-020) City Manager Warren highlighted the Report to City Council dated February 10, 1998, incorporated herein by reference, regarding acceptance of Wastewater Utility Awards from the Northern Sacramento Valley Section of the California Water Environment Association. Mr. Warren indicated that the division encompasses Davis to Mt. Shasta. The City of Redding received the Collection System of the Year Award for maintaining the best large collection system. The City of Redding had the best programs in the Northstate, including such components as evaluating system performance, quick response to customer calls, minimal system overflows, confined space entry procedures and innovative training programs. The Wastewater Collection Crew includes Collection Supervisor John Tasello, Bud Dean, Willie Enyart, Bob Gullixson, Steve Hollingsworth, Dan Lamb, Dwayne Norman, Rhonda Ohler, Bob Unger and Bob Wert. 111 The Collection System Person of the Year Award for 1997 was awarded to Bob Unger, a 21-year City employee. Mr. Warren stated that Mr. Unger created numerous tools and operating procedures which improved the effectiveness of the City's wastewater system. The Department of Public Works also received the Agency Safety Award for maintaining an excellent safety program for the entire Public Works/Field Operations Division. Wastewater Superintendent Craig, John Jardin and John Tasello were recently established as officers of the organization and will be serving on the Board of Directors as well as working with the California Water Environment Association. MOTION: Made by Council Member Kehoe, seconded by Council Member McGeorge, to accept the Wastewater Utility Awards from the Northern Sacramento Valley Section of the California Water Environment Association, and commended the City employees for their outstanding achievements for the City of Redding. The Vote: Unanimous Ayes PUBLIC HEARING - re Rezoning Application RZ-13-96, Unit 5 of the Gold Hills Subdivision, by Thomason Ltd. and Gold Hills Country Club (L-010-230) The hour of 7:00 p.m. having arrived, Mayor Murray opened the public hearing regarding Rezoning Application RZ-13-96. The following documents are on file in the office of the City Clerk: Affidavit of Mailing - Notice of Public Hearing Affidavit of Publication - Notice of Public Hearing City Clerk Strohmayer advised that no protests were received. Development Services Director Swanson provided an overview of the Report to City Council dated February 3, 1998, incorporated herein by reference, regarding Rezoning Application RZ-13-96, by Thomason Ltd. and Gold Hills Country Club. 02/17/98 35 Mr. Swanson conveyed that Rezoning Application RZ-13-96 was recommended for approval by the Planning Commission on December 9, 1997. The proposal will change the zoning of 10.68 acres from "U" Unclassified District to"R-1-BIO" Single Family Residential District to develop 29 lots for Unit 5 of Gold Hills Subdivision. A portion of the rezoning and subdivision area is currently a part of the 7th and 15th fairways of the Gold Hills Golf Course and encumbered with an open-space easement. An abandonment of that area is also being considered on this agenda (A-10-97). The golf course proposes to realign those fairways and create a new course. It is the recommendation of staff to approve Alternative No. 1, rezoning property from "U" Unclassified District to "R-1-B10" Single Family Residential District with lot-size minimums of 10,000 square feet. This designation clearly defines land use potential and would be consistent with surrounding land use and zoning and is also consistent with the General Plan given the allowed density transfer from the golf course. In response to Mayor Murray's question, Mr. Swanson stated that future portions of the development may be considered by Council for rezoning at the same time. Mayor Murray expressed concern that trees may be cut down when construction of the homes and relocation of the fairways begins. Mr. Swanson stated that the tree preservation plan would be addressed in the conditions of the subdivision and will be considered by the Planning Commission. Mayor Murray determined that there was no one present wishing to speak on the matter and closed the public hearing. MOTION: Made by Council Member Kehoe, seconded by Council Member McGeorge, that rezoning from "U" Unclassified District to "R-1-B10" Single Family Residential District with lot-size minimums of 10,000 square feet be approved as presented and make the following findings: l. The project is compatible with the Redding General Plan; 2. The project will not significantly alter existing land form; 3. The project is compatible with surrounding land use; 4. The project is compatible with the code of the City of Redding, California, and approve the Negative Declaration authorized by the Development Services Department. The Vote: Unanimous Ayes Council Member Kehoe offered Ordinance No. 2209 for first reading, an ordinance of the City Council of the City of Redding amending section 18.06.020 of the Redding Municipal Code relating to the rezoning of certain real property in the City of Redding (RZ-13-96). MOTION: Made by Council Member Kehoe, seconded by Council Member McGeorge, that the full reading of Ordinance No. 2209 be waived and the City Attorney be instructed to read the ordinance by title only. The Vote: Unanimous Ayes PUBLIC HEARING - re Abandonment Application A-10-97, Easterly terminus of Gold Hills Drive, by Gold Hills Country Club (A-010-040) The hour of 7:00 p.m. having arrived, Mayor Murray opened the public hearing regarding Abandonment Application A-10-97. The following documents are on file in the office of the City Clerk: Affidavit of Mailing - Notice of Public Hearing Affidavit of Publication - Notice of Public Hearing City Clerk Strohmayer advised that no protests were received. Development Services Director Swanson highlighted the Report to City Council dated February 3, 1998, incorporated herein by reference. Gold Hills Country Club is proposing to abandon 4.5 acres of the open-space easement located within the 7th and 15th fairways of the Gold Hils Country Club to allow for future development of the 29 single-family residential lots proposed with Unit 5 of the Gold Hills Subdivision (S-6-96). At its meeting of December 9, 1997, the Planning Commission recommended approval of Abandonment Application A-10-97. Most of the lots will be located on a portion of the existing 15th fairway which 02/17/98 36 is being realigned immediately to the south to a larger area of undeveloped land to be dedicated as open space. A relatively flat sliver of land at the edge of the 7th fairway is proposed for abandonment to deepen five of the northerly lots. It is the recommendation of staff to adopt Alternative No. 1, approving the abandonment request subject to the new areas of the 15th fairway be dedicated as open-space easement improved and opened for play, the necessary findings for abandonment of the subject open-space easement are in evidence, and any abandonment fee due will be paid as required by the California Government Code. Mayor Murray determined that there was no one present wishing to speak on the matter and closed the public hearing. MOTION: Made by Council Member Anderson, seconded by Mayor Murray, that the abandonment of portions of an open-space easement within the fairways of the Gold Hills Country Club A-10-97 be approved as presented and make the following findings: 1. The project is compatible with the Redding General Plan; 2. The project will not significantly alter existing land form; 3. The project is compatible with surrounding land use; 4. The project is compatible with the code of the City of Redding, California, and approve the Negative Declaration authorized by the Development Services Department. The Vote: Unanimous Ayes MOTION: Made by Council Member Anderson, seconded by Mayor Murray, that Resolution No. 98-20 be adopted, a resolution of the City Council of the City of Redding ordering the abandonment of portions of an open-space easement within the fairways of the Gold Hills Country Club A-10-97. Voting was as follows: Ayes: Council Members - Anderson, Kehoe, McGeorge, and Murray Noes: Council Members - None Abstain: Council Members - None PUBLIC HEARING- re Request for an Amendment to Planned Development PD-1-94, Tierra Oaks Subdivision by Blackpointe Homes, Inc. (L-010-211-002) The hour of 7:00 p.m. having arrived, Mayor Murray opened the public hearing regarding Planned Development PD-1-94, Tierra Oaks Subdivision. City Manager Warren abstained from discussion on this matter. The following documents are on file in the office of the City Clerk: Affidavit of Mailing - Notice of Public Hearing Affidavit of Publication - Notice of Public Hearing City Clerk Strohmayer advised that a petition was received from 14 Tierra Oaks home owners outlining minimum charges that would be acceptable to existing home owners. A petition was also received from 3 lot holders in Unit 3 of Tierra Oaks expressing support for the amendment. Development Services Director Swanson and Senior Planner DeMallie highlighted the Report to City Council dated February 3, 1998, incorporated herein by reference, regarding the amendment to Planned Development PD-1-94, Tierra Oaks Planned Development. Senior Planner DeMallie reported that the Planning Commission, by a 3 to 2 vote, recommended the adoption of a mitigated negative declaration and approval of an amendment to the tentative map of the Tierra Oaks Planned Development. Mr. DeMallie explained that the existing PD-1-94 allows for the development of 275 custom-home lots, ranging in size from .5 acre to 1.5 acres or larger. To date, 90 of those lots have been recorded. The amendment is a request for an additional 45 lots to a total project size of 320 lots, a reduction in lot size combined with protection of natural open space, and approval of model-home construction for the majority of the project. The additional 45 lots requested by Blackpointe Homes would increase the number of lots within the entire Tierra Oaks project (PD-1-94 and PD-2-94) to 405. The General Plan would allow up to 415 lots. Mr. DeMallie indicated that the Blackpointe Homes amendment proposes the addition of 45 single-family lots in the remaining undeveloped phases of the project. The amendment proposal also represents a marked 02/17/98 37 change from the original large-lot, custom-home design of the subdivision and existing lots within the initial phase of the project. The Blackpointe Homes plan consists of five separate residential villages. Four of these villages would be developed with model homes on individual lots with a distinct floor plan theme within each village, and the fifth village type is for custom homes. The amendment request is as follows: 1. Increase the number of approved lots in the undeveloped phases from 185 lots to 230 lots 2. Eliminate the 20,000-square-foot, lot-size minimum 3. Secure approval of model-home plans and development on the majority of the lots 4. Allow grading to create padded lots on the majority of the lots 5. Maintain approximately 60 acres in its natural state as open space held in common by a homeowners' association. 6. Defer an existing project requirement to realign a section of Old Oregon Trail from the date of recordation of the 150th lot to issuance of the 150th building permit. Proposed project amenities consist of Clubhouse and swimming pool; two small neighborhood parks; trail system connecting the villages; monumented/landscaped entrances to each village; and private streets with landscaped parkways between the curb and sidewalk. The additional lots would be located in areas previously approved for development; the increase in lots is accommodated by a reduction in lot size in most of the subdivision and a revised interior street pattern. The villages are separated by pockets of open space and the golf course and distinguished by monumented entry points. In regard to the realignment of Old Oregon Trail, Mr. DeMallie reported that this requirement is necessary to bypass a substandard and unsafe segment of the existing road., The existing project conditions require that the realignment is to occur prior to the recordation of the 150th lot as totaled cumulatively between PD-1-94 and PD-2-94. It is the recommendation of the Planning Commission to amend the realignment requirement changing the construction threshold from recordation of the 150th lot to issuance of the 150th building permit. In conjunction with its recommendation for approval of the project amendment, the Planning Commission also recommends adoption of a mitigated negative declaration addressing the loss of wetlands. It is the recommendation of staff that the Blackpointe Homes' concept of providing distinct housing themes in areas separated by open space and the golf course, along with landscaped private streets and recreation amenities, has merit and is consistent with the purpose of the planned development ordinance, which allows flexibility of project design. However, staff is concerned that the range of home sizes proposed is an attempt to capture too broad a spectrum of the local housing market. The small model homes seem out of balance and character with the concept of the Tierra Oaks Planned Development previously approved by the County and the City. Therefore, staff recommends that the City Council make the necessary findings set forth in the Government Code of the State of California Section 66474, approve the mitigated negative declaration, and approve the Blackpointe Homes amendment PD-1-94 with a minimum model-home size of 1,600 square feet or larger. David Lonich, 6727 Eastmont Drive, co-owner representing Blackpointe Homes, stated that the prior developer was unable to bring the project to fruition. Blackpointe Homes purchased the property and conducted a market study to determine what the housing market would support. The study indicated that the market would not support the sale of.5 acre lots. Therefore, the concept of the Villages of Tierra Oaks was developed. Mr. Lonich stated that it is a premiere development and the project designers have created an excellent development. Eihnard Diaz, 531 Dee Court, Diaz Associates, expressed support for the proposal. Mr. Diaz conveyed that the 1,400 square foot homes will have high pitched ceiling to increase the exterior size "look." He believes this project will provide an opportunity for City of Redding residents to live in a beautiful area. In response to Council Member Anderson, Mr. Diaz indicated that no more than 02/17/98 38 20%, or 14 to 15 lots, of the homes in both villages will be 1,400 square foot homes. Mr. Diaz referred to the minutes of the Planning Commission which stated that Planning Commissioner Bossetti supported the amendment but wanted staff to work out the details. Therefore, it was a four to two vote. Mr. Diaz noted that there will also be an RV and boat storage facility in PD-2-94. Kent Dagg, 2990 Innsbruck Drive, President of the Shasta Builders Exchange, stated that the Builders Exchange endorses this project. Mr. Dagg stated that local contractors will be hired. He pointed out that the number of building permits issued in Redding has dropped during the last ten years, and this project will help support the economy. Mr. Dagg opined that it is a good project, and that planned development similar in concept did not result in land values dropping. Bill Carlson, 13395 Tierra Heights Road, stated that he is speaking on behalf of 14 property owners. Mr. Carlson stated that they are opposed to amendments to the planned development and that the planned development should remain the same. They are requesting the following modifications: (1) Modify Condition 13c to require installation of the gate at start of construction rather than at recordation of the 90th lot; (2) Require eleven lots to be shifted from Palermo Village to Belleterre Village along the 8th fairway; (3)Modify Condition 57 to require 100%, not 20%, of Palermo homes to have side entry garages; (4) Modify Condition 59a to construct a gated entrance to Tuscany Village rather than a monument entrance; (5) As part of Condition 31, eliminate lots 15 and 16 in Tivoli Village and lots 56 - 59 of Tuscany Village to preserve the existing wetlands, and (6) Modify Condition 56b to establish a minimum home size of 1,600 square feet. Mr. Carlson stated that they are also opposed to graded and padded lots. Pat Harrington, 1877 Gold Hills, stated that he owns a lot in Tierra Oaks, and he agrees with Mr. Carlson. He said there is no guarantee that the amenities will be provided by Blackpointe Homes. Mr. Harrington asked Blackpointe Homes to explain the CC&Rs for the original Tierra Oaks development and questioned if the amenities offered to the property owners in the Palermo and Belleterre Villages would be offered to the property owners in the original development. City Attorney Wingate stated that if the original Tierra Oaks homeowners do not want to participate in the homeowners association and use and maintain the amenities, they can vote no. He explained that that issue is not a part of this process. Richard Villacres, 679 Hilltop Drive #24, conveyed that he is currently building a home in Unit 3 of Tierra Oaks. He said he is concerned that the proposed model homes will be out of scale and not compatible with the original development. Mr. Villacres stated that he does not expect a mirror image of Unit 3,just compatibility. • Rhonda Baskins, 19794 Escada Court, stated that she owns a home in Tierra Oaks and she supports the statements of Mr. Carlson and Mr. Villacres. She opined that the density transfer from the golf course is being over utilized. She explained that since 1989, the number of lots has increased by 60% and the lot size has decreased by 85%. Mrs. Baskins said she is opposed to padded lots and the removal of trees. She recommended that lot and home sizes be increased and that only trees within the building envelope be cut. She questioned how the property owners in the Belleterre and Palermo Villages will access their lots if they are not annexed to Tierra Oaks. Don Davis, 2120 Churn Creek Road, representing the Shasta Association of Realtors, stated that he is speaking on behalf of the project developers. Mr. Davis conveyed that this is a good project and the project designers, Bloodgroup, have won numerous awards for their projects. Carol Martin, representing the Native American Wintu Tribe, requested that the road be moved to protect the petroglyphs. She pointed out that if the project density is increased, there will be more people to impact the petroglyph area. Ms. Martin recalled that two of the mitigation measures required by a prior development have not been completed. Mr. DeMallie noted that a second access is required; however, the applicant proposes to avoid the site. Mr. DeMallie stated that he will meet with Mrs. Martin to discuss the archaeological sites further. Sharon Richards, 751 Hilltop Drive, stated that she and her husband, Dean Richards, are building a home in Tierra Oaks and they support the Blackpointe Homes project. They believe the project has been well planned. • 02/17/98 39 Paul Felker, 12930 Old Oregon Trail, indicated that he has lived on Old Oregon Trail for 14 years and has witnessed many accidents. He stated that Old Oregon Trail should be realigned because it is dangerous. Tom Lowe, 2975 Rohker Drive, Lafayette, stated that he has an ownership interest in Blackpointe Homes, and he wants the development to succeed. He opined that the type of market necessary to make the old project successful is not available in Redding, and the project must be modified to succeed. John Williams stated that he is building a home in the new subdivision. He expressed his support for Blackpointe Homes and the proposed project. He encouraged other property owners to support the construction of hiking trails and swimming pools and not become isolationists. He encouraged Council to expedite the project. Council Member Anderson stated that he would like to take a field trip to the property. City Attorney Wingate advised that Council can reopen and continue the public hearing to a specific date to consider specific issues. Council Member McGeorge requested that staff provided additional information to Council on the Indian sites and the road realignment. Mayor Murray stated that if amenities are promised in exchange for the zoning amendment, he is concerned about the developer's ability to fulfill those promises if the development fails and the developer files bankruptcy. Mayor Murray outlined the following comments and questions: (1) He opined that the RV and boat storage amenity should be addressed in PD-l; (2) Does the City or the Homeowners Association own the open space areas; (3) Is the fire danger managed by the Homeowners Association; (4) Will there be mass grading or grading only on building pads on lots; (5) What was the criteria for deciding to construct the Old Oregon Trail realignment after the 150th building permit was issued; (6) Can the Bella Vista Water District provide adequate water flows; (7) Should the Board of Administrative Review or the Planning Commission be the approving body under Condition 55, and (8) Relative to Condition 60, who decides which amenities are constructed at what time. Council Member Kehoe questioned how the public good will be served by approving the recommendation of the Planning Commission and staff. Council Member McGeorge noted that the wetlands issues affect the number of lots that may be developed. It was the consensus of City Council to continue the public hearing to March 17, 1998, to consider specific issues to be noticed in advance of the public hearing, and schedule a Special City Council meeting to conduct a field trip to the Tierra Oaks Planned Development. Mayor Murray stated that staff will send the notice to everyone who spoke at tonight's meeting. RECESS At the hour of 9:35 p.m., Mayor Murray stated that Council will recess. Mayor Murray reconvened the meeting at 9:50 p.m. Mayor Murray introduced Adrian Packer, reporter for the Record Searchlight, who has been reporting on City Council issues for several years. Ms. Packer will be leaving the Redding area and relocating to Las Vegas. The Council wished her well. PUBLIC HEARING - re Reprioritization of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds (G-100-030-043) The hour of 7:00 p.m. having arrived, Mayor Murray opened the public hearing regarding redirection of CDBG economic development funds. 02/17/98 40 The following documents are on file in the office of the City Clerk: Affidavit of Mailing -Notice of Public Hearing Affidavit of Publication - Notice of Public Hearing City Clerk Strohmayer advised that no protests were received. Deputy City Manager Starman provided an overview of the Report to City Council dated February 17, 1998, incorporated herein by reference, regarding reprioritization of CDBG funds, and redirection of CDBG Economic Development Revolving Loan Fund monies. Mr. Starman presented three topics for discussion: 1) a follow-up to Council's action at the December 9, 1997, meeting regarding the priorities committees and the reprioritization of the redevelopment funds and community development block grant funds to fulfill the public input requirements; 2) the City's economic development revolving loan fund and; 3) the allocation of$20,000 for the stairway for the downtown parking structure. Recent actions have been taken by the City and the Redding Redevelopment Agency which require amendment of the plan for the expenditure of CDBG funds. At its meeting on December 9, 1997, the City Council directed staff to proceed with the redirection of City priorities for both redevelopment and CDBG funds over the next five-year period. Based on CDBG program eligibility criteria, three proposed projects are recommended specifically to include CDBG funding: 1) Downtown Improvements, 2) North and South Market Street Improvements, and 3) ADA Improvements. The total CDBG program funding available for the five-year period for these activities is estimated to be $2,046,170. The City's contract with Superior California Economic Development District (SCEDD) to administer the economic development Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) is scheduled to terminate at the end of February, 1998. Over its nine-year history, the program has had only marginal success with a total of five loans being funded. The 1996 contract with SCEDD established a goal to obligate 75% of available funds within a twelve-month period, and SCEDD has been unable to accomplish this performance goal with no new loans being executed over the past 18 months. Currently, the RLF balance available for loans is $184,700. SCEDD is willing to continue servicing the two remaining RLF loans ($31,076 and $25,929 respectively) which mature in the year 2000. Consistent with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) policy, staff recommends that all monies (except $20,000) from the City's Economic Development Revolving Loan Program be returned to the 1998-99 CDBG funding pool. This redirection would increase the existing amount of funds from $926,982 (including $7,982 of unspent monies) to $1,091,682. It is further proposed that the remaining $20,000 be made available for the installation of the stairway component of the Downtown Redding Parking Structure. It is the recommendation of staff to 1) approve redirection of CDBG funds as proposed; 2) approve reallocation of the Economic Development Revolving Loan Funds, and 3) allocate $20,000 for stairway. Council Member Kehoe expressed concern that item no. 7, development partnerships, in the staff report is incorrect and must be modified. He recollected that at the priorities meeting of December 9, 1997, Council discussed and approved the allocation of one million dollars to the library and $200,000 for the possible construction of the eastside trail. Mr. Starman noted that the minutes he reviewed did not reflect the same outcome as Council Member Kehoe indicated. City Clerk Strohmayer confirmed that the priorities were listed on the action agenda which was sent to Council for review. Council Member Kehoe indicated that he would like to review the transcript of the tape from the December 9, 1997, meeting. Marion Peterson, Anderson, President of Self Help for the Hard of Hearing in Shasta County, urged Council to include assisted listening devices in all City meeting areas, the library, and senior citizen centers for those who are hearing-impaired. David Codromac, 4881 Saratoga Drive, suggested that funds be used to improve infrastructure and rehabilitate the Martin Luther King area. He noted that streets are substandard and drainage is a problem. 02/17/98 41 Paul Westwind, 1055 Trinity Street #134, encouraged Council to use CDBG funds for ADA improvements. Mayor Murray determined that there was no one else present wishing to speak on the matter and closed the public hearing. MOTION: Made by Council Member Anderson, seconded by Council Member McGeorge, to approve redirection of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds of approximately $2,046,170 for Downtown Improvements, North and South Market Street Improvements and ADA Improvements for the next five years, and the return of $164,700 in unspent monies from the Economic Development Revolving Loan Fund Program with a separate amount of$20,000 going to the installation of the proposed Downtown Redding Parking Structure stairway. The Vote: Unanimous Ayes REDDING MUNICIPAL AIRPORT - re Capital improvements to the drag strip (A-090-100) Deputy City Manager Starman highlighted the Report to City Council dated February 13, 1998, incorporated herein by reference, regarding capital improvements to the drag strip at Redding Municipal Airport. Mr. Starman stated that the Redding Redevelopment Agency (RRDA) conceptually approved a $125,000 loan from the Canby-Hilltop-Cypress Redevelopment Project (CHC) to the SHASTEC Redevelopment Project last month to finance capital improvements to the drag strip located at Reddi_Ig Municipal Airport. The Shasta County Redevelopment Agency (SCRDA) one of our partners in SHASTEC, subsequently voted to oppose the loan. In deference to the SCRDA, the RRA Board of Directors voted February 9, 1998, to abandon the concept of a loan from CHC to SHASTEC and referred the issue back to the City Council. The Northern California Drag Racing Association (NCDRA) and the Friends of the Drag Strip state that the revenue projections supporting NCDRA's initial request for funds and its approval included a commitment by the City to install adequate paved or chip sealed road to the drag strip. It is estimated that it will cost $25,000 for materials to chip seal the unimproved section of Old Oregon Trail, and the project may be subject to prevailing wage requirements. Mr. Starman said there are two issues for consideration by Council: 1) should the City proceed with the improvements to the drag strip, and if so, how should they be funded, and 2) should the City improve that section of Old Oregon Trail leading into the drag strip, and if so, how should that be funded. It is staff's recommendation that the project has merit and is worthy of funding. Mr. Starman recommended that Council approve a $125,000 grant from the General Fund, or a grant for some lesser amount; with a caveat that if the concession fees do not increase from $6,200 to $12,000 per year or more, the NCDRA would be required to make up the difference. In regard to Old Oregon Trail, staff recommends that the City Council consider granting $25,000 to NCDRA so the organization can chip seal the section of road that leads to the drag strip. In response to Council Member Kehoe, Mr. Starman indicated that if the City is going to commit grant funds to improve the track, NCDRA will be held accountable for the revenue projections it has provided to the City. George Lewellen, 7737 Silver Bridge Road, President of the Northern California Drag Racing Association, expressed his hope that the City will assist with improvements to the drag strip. He projected that scheduled events will bring between $450,000 to $900,000 to Redding businesses, and approximately $12,500 to $20,500 in TOT tax and gate fees. Mr. Lewellen stated that his organization has booked seven major races. In response to Council Member Kehoe, Mr. Lewellen indicated that he delivered a letter to each County Supervisor requesting reconsideration of their denial to provide funding, however, he has not heard from the Board. Howard Stubblefield, Friends of the Drag Strip, expressed his support for the drag strip. He stated that Kool April Nites has become the largest car show event in the western United States. Mr. Stubblefield noted that the $125,000 to improve the drag strip and provide additional seating, plus chip sealing the road are necessary. 02/17/98 4Z Bert Meyer, Meyer Motels, expressed his support for the drag strip and noted that he has been active in helping NCDRA expand the drag strip. Mayor Murray noted that a different road alignment may reduce the cost of chip sealing. Mr. Lewellen conveyed that there is a problem with the road crossing an existing leach field. Council Member Kehoe asked what consideration the private sector is going to make to improve the drag strip. Mr. Lewellen stated that proponents of the drag strip have worked for two years to develop the drag strip, and there have been $80,000 worth of improvements made of which $25,000 came from the City. Council Member Anderson said he is concerned that funding this request will cause the general fund reserves to fall below 5%. Council Member McGeorge suggested that Council issue a grant challenge to the private sector and Kool April Nites to fund the improvements. Mr. Lewellen stated that private companies will write a check for $1,000 or $2,500 but beyond that they are looking for a return on their investment. Mr. Starman conveyed that Council will be considering a request by Kool April Nites to expand City services for Kool April Nites events. The request for expanded services will cost the City $22,000. Mr. Starman explained that there will be sufficient funds available in the Special Events account because the Jazz Festival anc' the Air Show were cancelled. Council Member Kehoe said he is in favor of spending $25,000 for road improvements on Old Oregon Trail. Mayor Murray stated that he wants to provide a safe recreational activity; but, he is unwilling to drop the reserves below 5%. He suggested that staff meet with NCDRA and Kool April Nites to create a plan to fund improvements that will not take the City's reserves below 5%. It was the consensus of Council that staff meet with the Northern California Drag Racing Association and Kool April Nites to develop a plan to fund the drag strip improvements. DEBT SERVICE PAYMENT - Westside Road Sewer Assessment District No. 1986-6 (A-170-100-907) City Treasurer Linville highlighted the Report to City Council dated February 10, 1998, incorporated herein by reference, requesting approval to advance funds for debt service payment to Westside Road Sewer Assessment District No. 1986-6. Ms. Linville reported that the Westside Road Sewer Assessment District bond proceeds were used to construct 695 linear feet of 8-inch sewer line and two manholes. Ms. Linville stated that a debt service payment of$8,469 is due to be transferred to the Trustee at the end of this month for the March 2 payment; however, cash available in the district's redemption funds to make this payment totals only $5,635, leaving a shortfall of$2,834. The Wastewater Utility Fund was the prime fund with the potential to benefit from the issuance of the bonds. It is, therefore, recommended that Council approve Alternative No. 1, and advance$2,834 from the Wastewater Fund to meet the semi- annual payment. In response to Council Member Kehoe's question regarding the timeline on the foreclosure, City Attorney Wingate stated that the property owners have approximately seven months before foreclosure action is taken, and foreclosure takes approximately one year unless the property owner files bankruptcy. MOTION: Made by Council Member Anderson, seconded by Council Member Kehoe, to fund the $2,834 advance from the Wastewater Fund for debt service payment. In addition, any excess funds received from payments of past delinquency amounts, and/or any proceeds from sale of property from foreclosure proceedings would be credited back to the fund. The Vote: Unanimous Ayes DEBT SERVICE PAYMENT - Churn Creek Road Extension #1 Assessment District No. 1989-5 (A-170-120-100) 02/17/98 43 City Treasurer Linville provided an overview of the Report to City Council dated February 10, 1998, incorporated herein by reference, requesting approval to advance funds for debt service payment to Churn Creek Road Extension #1 Assessment District No. 1989-5. Ms. Linville explained that the Churn Creek Road Extension Assessment District was formed to fund construction for the Shasta Hills Estates subdivision of approximately 1,550 lineal feet of road improvements, storm drain facilities, and water system. Approximately 78% of the land within the district is owned by Redwood Shasta Investors and approximately that percentage of the district remains undeveloped. Redwood Shasta Investors has not paid assessments on essentially all of its parcels for three years . The delinquent assessments in this district total $244,284 and foreclosure proceedings are underway to collect these delinquent assessments. An interest payment of$14,663 is due to be transferred to the Trustee at the end of this month for the March 2 payment. However, cash available in the district's reserve and redemption funds to make this payment totals only $4,307, leaving a shortfall of$10,356. It is the recommendation of staff to advance $10,356 for the March 2 debt service payment from the General Fund, Water Fund and Storm Drainage Fund, since they are the funds benefiting from the improvements. In response to Council Member Anderson, City Attorney Wingate stated that he anticipates the bankruptcy judge for Redwood Shasta Investors to approve a reorganization plan which calls for an initial payment of$7,000 to the City of Redding. MOTION: Made by Council Member McGeorge, seconded by Council Member Anderson, to advance funds from the General Fund, Water Fund, and Storm Drainage Fund for debt service payment. The advances would be allocated as follows: $5,851 from the General Fund; $2,382 from the Water Fund; and $2,123 from the Storm Drainage Fund totaling $10,356. The Vote: Unanimous Ayes DEBT SERVICE PAYMENT - Churn Creek Road Extension #2 Assessment District No. 1990-5 (A-170-120-101) City Treasurer Linville reviewed the report to City Council dated February 10, 1998, incorporated herein by reference, requesting approval to advance funds for debt service payment to Churn Creek Road Extension #2 Assessment District No. 1990-5. Ms. Linville explained that the Chum Creek Road Extension Assessment District was formed to fund construction of'approximately 12,100 lineal feet of street improvements, storm drain and water system facilities. Approximately 86% of the land within the district is owned by BHS Investments. BHS Investments has not paid assessments on essentially all of its parcels for more than three years and foreclosure proceedings are under way to collect these delinquent assessments. The delinquent assessments in this district total $225,646. An interest payment of$7,619 is due to be transferred to the Trustee at the end of this month for the March 2 payment. However, the district's available cash totals only $2,666, leaving a shortfall of$4,953. It is the recommendation of staff to advance $4,953 for the March 2 debt service payment from the General Fund, Water Fund and Storm Drainage Fund, since they are the funds benefiting from the improvements. City Attorney Wingate stated that there is a judgement against BHS Investments which directs the investors to pay $110,000 to the City from escrow funds. MOTION: Made by Council Member McGeorge, seconded by Council Member Anderson, to advance funds from the General Fund, Water Fund, and Storm Drainage Fund for debt service payment. The advances would be allocated as follows: $2,734 from the General Fund; $208 from the Water Fund; and $2,011 from the Storm Drainage Fund totaling $4,953. The Vote: Unanimous Ayes CLOSED SESSION Mayor Murray stated that the City Council will adjourn to closed session to discuss the following: (1) Pursuant to California Government Code Section 54957.6: CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR 02/17/98 44 Agency Negotiator: Randy Bachman Employee Organization: Peace Officers Association of Redding (P-100-050-120) (2) Pursuant to California Government Code Section 54956.9(b): CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED LITIGATION One (1) Case (L-100) At the hour of 1 1:10 p.m., Mayor Murray adjourned the meeting to closed session. At the hour of 11:47 p.m., Mayor Murray reconvened the meeting to regular session. No action was taken. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, at the hour of 11 :48 p.m., Mayor Murray declared the meeting adjourned. APPROVED: Waal' a or ATTEST: City Clerk 71 02/17/98