| Regular City Commission Meeting | Mayor Bennett presiding |
CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 PM
ROLL CALL: City Commissioners present: Joan Bennett, Bill Beecher, Bill Downer, Randy Gray and John Rosenbaum. Also present were the City Manager, City Attorney, Directors of Community Development, Public Works, Fiscal Control, Management Information Services, Library, Human Resources, Park & Recreation, Acting Director of the Fairgrounds, Planning, Fire Chief, Police Chief, and the City Clerk.
PUBLIC HEARINGS |
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Ord. 2744, Density Change for Lot 3, Amended Plat of Lots 2, 3 and the North 80 feet of Lot 1, Block 248, GF Townsite. Denied. |
1.
ORDINANCE 2744, CHANGING THE DENSITY AND RESIDENTIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR LOT 3 OF THE AMENDED PLAT OF LOTS 2, 3, AND THE NORTH 80 FEET OF LOT 1, ALL IN BLOCK 248, GF TOWNSITE.
Upon adoption, Ordinance 2744, would change the permitted density and residential district requirements for Lot 3 of the Amended Plat of Lots 2, 3, and the North 80 feet of Lot 1, all in Block 248 of Great Falls Townsite Addition. The subject Lot 3 is presently zoned Residential Existing (RE). The Central Place Revitalization Program regulations specify that because the property is vacant, it may only be developed in accordance with Low Density Residential (R-2) District standards. The proposed changes would allow a project proposed by the property owner, Nick Generios, consisting of a residential complex of 12 apartments and one town home unit, landscaping and off-street parking for 20 vehicles, to be constructed. On August 11, 1998, the Great Falls City/County Planning Board, conducted a public hearing on this request. A motion was made to recommend approval of the ordinance. The motion failed 0-6. Mayor Bennett asked Bob Horne, City/County Planning Director, to review the issue. Mr. Horne reminded the Commission that Ordinance 2744 was not a zone change. It was a request to amend the Great Falls Revitalization Plan by changing the density of the described property from R-2 to R-4 which would accommodate the proposed 12 apartment units and 1 townhouse Mr. Generios proposed to build. Mayor Bennett declared the public hearing open. Those speaking in support of the proposed ordinance were as follows: Mark Schonrock, 3401 Antelope Lane, stated that the design for the project was similar to the Valeria Townhomes which was located near the proposed project. Mr. Schonrock said that the off-street parking requirements were met and that there would be little or no impact on traffic. He added that one complication was traffic as it related to the 13th unit, which was added at the request of the Design Review Board. A complication to the traffic pattern could arise when people backed out of the townhome driveway. Mr. Bob Emmons, 103 3rd Avenue North, explained that the petitioner originally started with 12 units and Design Review stated they preferred to have a 13th unit added because it would fit in better with the neighborhood. Mr. Emmons read the minutes from the Design Review Board meeting which stated, "The new proposed enhancements presented today far exceed the Board's expectations." Mr. Emmons then read letters from Mr. and Mrs. Simonettti, Suzanne Warden, Esther Charteris, Channing Hartelius, Mr. and Mrs. Langan, Mr. and Mrs. Emmons, Herb Pasha, and Tim Murphy. All the letters supported the proposed density change. Mr. Emmons stated that this issue was not a matter of "counting noses." It was an economic issue. Mr. Emmons reported that the taxes generated by the recently closed Bon were approximately $16,000 annually. The annual taxes that could be generated once the proposed project was completed would be $15,000. It was important to keep the tax base strong. He said that the project was good for the neighborhood. The project would improve property that had been vacant for many years and was in poor condition. Andreous Geranios, 116 3rd Avenue North, stated that he supported the project and encouraged the City Commission to adopt the proposed ordinance. Nick Geranios, 116 3rd Avenue North, requested the City Commission support the proposed ordinance. He explained that the taxes generated once the development was completed could save Whittier School. He suggested that Whittier School was possibly slated for closure due to a small tax base within the school boundaries. Donald Henderson, 2221 Holly Court, stated that cities all over the country have neighborhoods that have a more dense population than what was proposed. He said that Great Falls needed quality townhomes in the downtown area.v Scott Schuman, 4212 Central Avenue #4, stated he understood the need why zoning exists. However, he didn't understand this issue. The proposed project was a residential project in a residential area. Those speaking in opposition to Ordinance 2744 were as follows: Maria Zieske, 618 5th Avenue North, secretary from Neighborhood Council 7, stated that the Neighborhood Council opposed the proposed project for the following reasons: it was contrary to the aims of the Great Falls Central Place Revitalization Plan; it was not economically feasible; it would degrade the value of the existing single family housing; and the increased density would be disastrous to the improvements in the area. She stated that the area was saturated and could not handle any increase in density. She asked that the Commission to listen to Staff, the Planning Board, the neighbors, and the Neighborhood Council, and deny the proposed ordinance. Dona Stebbins, Neighborhood Council 7 Chairperson, asked the Commission to remember that the Design Review Board reviews design, not density. She produced maps that demonstrated how many rental units there were in the area. She asked the Commission to remember the past 30 years, to protect the progress and not to confuse change with progress. Chris Larson, 225 3rd Avenue North, stated that in 1974 the lower north side was not a desirable place to move to. However, changes have been made, there has been some new construction that was good for the neighborhood. Three apartments have been turned back into single family homes. He added that the turnaround could be accredited to the Residential Existing (RE) element of the Revitalization Plan. He stated that the Plan was a good thing to have and that it pointed to lower density. Mr. Larson suggested that tonight's decision would set a direction for the area. He encouraged the City Commission to keep the density low in the area. Gorham Swanberg, 207 3rd Avenue North, stated that the City Commission would soon see a proposal for an office building one block away from this proposed project. He stated that both projects will make parking in the area worse than it already was. He said that most of the neighbors in the area do not support the project. There have been many remodeling projects that have increased property values in the last few years. This was a trend that the neighbors would like to see continue. He added that people want to have single family homes in the area, not rental units. Pete Sherwood, 405 Park Drive, stated that he has lived in many places and sometimes the value of his home increased and sometimes it decreased. Each time it decreased it was because of a nearby apartment complex. He reminded the City Commission that there were several attempts to compromise with Mr. Geranios, and he was not interested in changing his project. Phil Facenda, 217 3rd Avenue North, stated that one of the reasons not to approve this development pertains to property values. Since the inception of the Revitalization Plan, land values on the lower north side had to become more realistic for residential development. If this project was approved, it would undo some of the progress made regarding land values. With projects such as this, the land values would increase, because they had to. Mr. Facenda then compared the proposed development to the Fairfield Inn located off 10th Avenue South. He stated they were almost identical in size and structure. The basic principal of the Revitalization Plan was to reverse the trend of high density residential and commercial encroachment into the area. He stated that it was important for the City Commission to make decisions that would assist in maintaining the residential character of the neighborhood. Wade Jones, 313 2nd Street North, stated that he thought that the City Commission should protect the zoning that had been established. He requested that the City Commission deny the proposed Ordinance. Margaret Moddison, 208 3rd Avenue North, stated that single family homes are recycled and improved, causing the value to increase. Apartments, on the other hand, are seldom recycled and typically make up the blight in a neighborhood. She requested the City Commission deny the ordinance. Kyle Coder, 309 4th Avenue North, stated that the idea of thirteen families on 2½ lots wasn't right. He added that he opposed the proposed ordinance. There being no one further to address the City Commission, Mayor Bennett closed the public hearing. Commissioner Beecher moved, seconded by Commissioner Downer, that the City Commission deny Ordinance 2744. Commissioner Beecher stated that he could understand the economic benefit of this project and was enthused about the tax benefit. However, he couldn't ignore the potential traffic problems and that common sense told him that increased density would present some problems. Commissioner Rosenbaum stated that he liked the design of the building and the concept. However, he couldn't get past the R-2 designation and the intent of the Revitalization District. He added that the character of the area and the character of the homes warrant a residential classification. Rental units being converted back into single family homes was an important trend in the area. He supported that trend. Commissioner Downer stated that it was clear that something needed to go on the lots. However, the proposed building was too big for the two lots. He encouraged the Geranios family to think in terms of some kind of compromise that could be built on the lots. Commissioner Gray stated he would abstain due to a perceived conflict of interest as Mr. Swanberg is his law partner. However, he suggested that there has to be a better way to deal with these types of density change or rezoning issues and asked Staff to look into it. Mayor Bennett stated she has always been a proponent of the Revitalization Plan and could not support the proposed density change. There being no further discussion, Mayor Bennett called for the vote. Motion carried 4-0-1 (Commissioner Gray abstaining). |
OLD BUSINESS |
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NEW BUSINESS |
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ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS |
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Res. 8975, Resolution of Support for the VentureStar RFQ. Adopted. |
1A.
RESOLUTION 8975, RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT: VENTURESTAR SITE PROPOSALS.
Recently, Lockheed-Martin began a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process to identify launching/landing sites for the new VentureStar project. Lockheed-Martin wants to build two sites for the new project that could accommodate the proposed 40 launches and landings per year. In response to the RFQ, the City began the process by identifying possible sites near the Great Falls area that would meet the minimum requirements for the VentureStar. The project team identified two sites, one near Manchester and the other adjacent to Malmstrom Air Force Base (MAFB). Following this process, City Staff, in conjunction with High Plains Port and Development Authority, hosted a public meeting regarding the two site proposals for the VentureStar. The meeting was held on August 13, 1998, at 7:00 pm, at the Civic Center. Identified property owners associated with both sites were sent personal invitations to attend. There were over 100 people in attendance. The general consensus of those in attendance was for the City to proceed with the RFQ process. Mr. Lockerby completed the City's portion of the RFQ and submitted it to the Governor's office for review. In order to demonstrate community support, it was necessary for the City Commission to adopt a resolution of support for the project. Commissioner Downer moved, seconded by Commissioner Rosenbaum, that the City Commission adopt Resolution 8975. Commissioner Downer stated that it was obvious this would have a major impact on the community. However, it would be positive growth. Commissioner Gray concurred. Motion carried 5-0. |
Consent Agenda |
CONSENT AGENDA
2.
Minutes, August 18, 1998, Commission meeting.
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Claims over $500.
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6.
Bid Award, half-ton pickup. Award bid to City Motor Company of Great Falls, in the amount of $19,982 to purchase a 1999 pickup.
7.
Bid Award, mid-sized sedan. Award bid to City Motor Company of Great Falls, in the amount of $13,548 with trade-in, to purchase a 1999 sedan.
8.
Bid Award, quarter ton pickups. Award bid to Bison Motor Company of Great Falls, in the amount of $49,962 to purchase three 1999 trucks.
9.
Bid Award, three quarter ton cab and chassis. Award bid to City Motor Company of Great Falls, in the amount of $18,263 to purchase a 1999 truck.
10.
Postpone Bid Award, rear loading refuse truck. Postpone bid award to allow Staff additional time to review the bids.
11.
Contract Award, River's Edge Trail (OF 1029.1). Award contract to United Materials of Great Falls, Inc., in the amount of $174,000 for construction for a 10 foot wide paved and graveled trail segment between West Bank Park and the new 9th Street North Bridge and between Lewis & Clark and Crooked Falls Overlooks.
12.
Contract Award, Water Main Replacements, northwest side (OF 1143). Award contract to Apple Valley Backhoe Service, in the amount of $251,528.90, for replacement of old and deteriorated water mains.
13.
Contract Award, 1998 CDBG Infrastructure Improvements, City/County Health Department Building Sidewalks, Curb and Gutter (OF 1195.2). Award contract to United Materials of Great Falls, Inc., in the amount of $24,999 for public infrastructure improvements near the new office.
14.
Final Pay, Park Garden Road Overlay (OF 1183.1). Final payment to United Materials of Great Falls, Inc., and the State Miscellaneous Tax Division in the total amount of $9,254.52.
15.
Final Pay, 1998 Miscellaneous Street Repairs (OF 1200). Final payment to United Materials of Great Falls, Inc., and the State Miscellaneous Tax Division in the total amount of $73,087.95.
16.
Final Pay, Storm Drain Relocation, BN Railroad Bridge (OF 1221). Final payment to United Materials of Great Falls, Inc., and the State Miscellaneous Tax Division in the total amount of $2,491.02.
17.
Change Order 1, Charles Russell Addition Outfall Drainage/Erosion Improvements (OF 1118). Change Order extended contract an additional 10 days and increased the contract $14,972 to extend storm drain pipe, install manhole and outlet structures, furnish and place backfill, and fine grade seeding.
18.
Set public hearing for September 15, 1998, Resolution 8955, Levy and Assess SLD 1284.
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Set public hearing for September 15, 1998, Resolution 8956, Levy and Assess SLD 1287.
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Set public hearing for September 15, 1998, Resolution 8957, Levy and Assess SLD 1288.
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Set public hearing for September 15, 1998, Resolution 8958, Levy and Assess SLD 1289.
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Set public hearing for September 15, 1998, Resolution 8959, Levy and Assess SLD 1290.
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Set public hearing for September 15, 1998, Resolution 8960, Levy and Assess Special Lighting Districts.
24.
Set public hearing for September 15, 1998, Resolution 8973, Wadsworth Park Master Plan.
25.
Set public hearing for September 15, 1998, Resolution 8974, Nuisance Abatement Cost Recovery, 705 7th Avenue South. (GF Townsite, B472, L13).
26.
Amended Plat of portions of Blocks 27, 28, 29 and vacated 11th, 12th, and 13th Streets North and vacated 12th Alley North, GF 1st Addition. The amended plat pertains to an approximate 60 foot section of former Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad right-of-way that Lumber Yard Supply acquired to accommodate the planned expansion of their business.
27.
Labor Agreement, MPEA. Two year agreement wherein year one the 3.6% increase was used to buy health insurance contributions and a 2% salary increase effective January 1, 1999. The 2% increase for FY 2000 would be on base wages.
28.
Labor Agreement, PPA. The economic impact for the two year contract would be for FY 1999 is 3.6% and 2% for FY 2000. The 3.6% for FY 1999 was distributed as follows: .11% toward increasing longevity pay, and 3.49% on base wages. The 2% increase for FY 2000 would go on base wages.
Commissioner Beecher moved, seconded by Commissioners Gray and Rosenbaum, that the City Commission accept the Consent Agenda as printed. Motion carried 5-0. |
NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCILS |
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NC 9. |
29.
Joe McMahon, Neighborhood Council 9, thanked Jerry Sepich, Park and Recreation Director, for attending Council 9's last meeting to discuss the Boys & Girls Club and the use of Chowen Springs Park. |
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS |
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32.
Clay Braden, 2708 4th Avenue NW, thanked the City Commission for their decision regarding Ordinance 2744. |
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ADJOURNMENT |
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Adjourn |
There being no further business to come before the Commission, the regular meeting of September 1, 1998, adjourned at 8:35 p.m. |
/S/
Mayor Joan Bennett
/S/
Peggy J. Bourne, City Clerk