Highland City Council Meeting
November 3, 2010 7:00 PM - ???
I attended the session from7:00 PM until 9:50 PM at which time the City Council and Mayor went into Executive Session. They were expected to be 1 hour, at which point I came home.
Community Issues:
Mary Lowe - Highland Citizen, addressed the Council. She indicated her backyard bordered a major road and asked that consideration be given whereby she could build a 6’ high privacy fence. Request being considered.
Kent Gibson – Highland Citizen, addressed the Council. He made the identical same request as Mary Lowe above. Request being considered.
Michael Smith – Highland Citizen and student at Lone Peak addressed the Council. He indicated the curb has been painted red on the road that loops behind the high school and wanted to know if he would be ticketed if he parked curbside. It was decided that the curb had been painted red in error and that he could park curbside without fear of a ticket. The City will sandblast the red paint off the curb.
Minutes:
October 19, 2010 – City Council Work Session. After some discussion and correction to the written record the minutes were approved.
October 19, 2010 – Regular City Council Meeting. After some discussion and correction to the written record the minutes were approved.
Scheduled Items:
Motion:
Chris Lee and wife – Future Potential Highland Residents have placed an offer on Lot 8 in the Hyde Estates. This is on a court. There is an existing trail that goes right thru the middle of the court. The City wanted the garage placed (side entry garage) such that it would force the residents to drive out of their driveway instead of backing out of the driveway. According to the City this would be safer for the pedestrians using the trail. Councilman (CM) Braithwaite said public safety was king and the stipulation should not be waived. Tom Butler said we have been surrendering our freedoms for 10 years now, private property was king, and that the side entry garage stipulation should be waived. Hikers should have enough common sense to look both ways before crossing the court and that if they were struck by an auto driven by the Lee family then that is what insurance is for. Butler gets my vote in the future. The council waived the stipulation.
Motion:
The site plan and architectural plan for a new Walgreens retail store complete with a drive-thru located on Lot 6 (northwest corner of SR92 and the Alpine Highway) was approved by the Council.
Ordinance:
Amending Section 3-612, Fences, Walls and Hedges, relating to fencing requirements for property adjacent to arterial, collector streets, and open space areas, fencing between different uses, and fencing design requirements.
Current fencing regulations have led to several concerns from property owners with homes that abut open spaces and are either adjacent to or in close proximity to a public street or active open space area. The concerns expressed have focused on privacy and security issues. The Open Space Committee is recommending that the fencing requirements be changed to allow 6’ opaque fences adjacent to main transportation corridors and open space areas greater than fifty feet in width.
The police chief was not in favor indicating such a fence, which blocks the view of the back of the Barbecoa Fast Food Franchise made it easy for that particular establishment to recently be burglarized. CM Braithwaite felt a 4’ high fence with another 2’ of open fencing would be sufficient for property owners and that that would allow police and other neighbors to monitor each other’s property. He also felt that this kind of a fence would result in safer trails, where open spaces were fenced on both sides. He argued that open spaces fenced on both sides were not safe as they became alleyways and no one from the outside could see in and monitor the well being of pedestrians. CM Tom Butler than spoke his piece. He again said private property is king. If the owner wanted a 6’ opaque fence for privacy issues than he should be able to have it. CM Butler said crime concerns in the “alleyways” could be controlled if more residents got their conceal carry permits or even open carried their weapons. He said people that wanted to leave their private property and travel the public trails should accept some responsibility for their own safety and well-being. CM Smith indicated 50 feet was a lot of real estate and that that should be brought down to 40 feet.
The fencing regulation as proposed two paragraphs above was adopted except that the 50 feet will be changed to 40’.
Motion:
Adopting a new Open Space Agreement & Application for Improvement of open space. An open space agreement allows a resident, in certain circumstances, the ability to landscape a portion of the City owned open space…this would typically appear as the extension of someone’s back yard. A moratorium was placed on additional open space agreements on August 3, 2010 until it could be reviewed and possibly amended.
There was a lot of discussion led by CM Smith. He was in favor of waiving the $240 annual fee as the resident who did the landscaping would then take care of it, reducing the burden on the City, who wouldn’t do as good a job of keeping it up as the private resident probably would do. It was decided by the rest of the council however that there wasn’t enough data collected to make that determination. The new Open Space Agreement is going to be adopted. The annual fees will remain in place until enough data is collected to allow a logical determination as to whether it should be waived at some time in the future or not.
Jim S.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Thursday, October 21, 2010
City Council Oct. 19, 2010
Thanks to Jill C. for this.
Last night, I attended the CC Meeting. Here is my summary of what was discussed:
I. Four citizens made appearances at the beginning:
1. Gerald Omer: lives in a rental that backs up to a public trail. He maintains his area of the trail, but is concerned about debris, concrete chunks, and other misc. that has been showing up on the other parts of the trail. Wanted to know if the city could do a once a year clean up, or post signs.
2. Gina Brown: She stated that money from the city has been set aside for landscaping a hill in the ViewPoint Hill area. She wanted to know if the neighbors could have some input/help plan what is to be landscaped on this hill. Response by John Park (City Administrator): Sprinklers have been put in place. It is a very steep hill and they are looking at planting wildflowers.
3. Kip Gibson: (from Beacon Hills area). Wanted to know if they have revised the fence ordinance and if he was on an upcoming agenda or if there was an update. Response from Nathan Crane (Comm. Dev. Dir.): It is on the Planning Commission Agenda next week. They will work on the proposed ordinance, then it will be come back to the City Council.
II. There was no Public Hearing. It was cancelled because there was no 10 day notice given.
III. Presentation- Annual Library Report (Presented by Kent Slade):
Last year, they had over 6000 borrowers (1/3 of the city). 166k items were circulated. Their goal was to have 25k items and they've exceeded that goal and now have over 29k items catalogued. They have circulated 449 items from other libraries. They've had over 9300 uses on their computers. Over 3,000 children used their Children's Programs. In October 2011 they can submit for a Certified Library and then patrons can use other libraries. This has been their first FULL year of service. We can compare our library size to Payson and Brighm City. They are in need of new staff and money for materials. The videos wear out very quickly. They have a very energetic Library Board. Brian B. asked about goals. Mr. Slade answered that their long range plan is to become State Certified. They have met their goals for this, now it is just waiting time. Scott S. stated that the library is almost built out. In future we'll need to make a plan. Mr. Slade stated that if they could get $10k in next year's budget, they would be able to hire one PT staff.
The question was then brought up about the library fees, and where were they going? Lynn Ruff stated that they money can go back to the Library Foundation. The Mayor requested that the above statistics be mailed to himself and the CC members.
IV. CC Minutes from 10/5/10: A few grammatical changes to the minutes (from Kathryn S). Minutes were adopted and approved.
V. Open Space Improvement (this was the longest portion of the meeting):
Here is the history taken from last night's agenda:
BACKGROUND:
On June 15, 2010 the City Council approved an Open Space Improvement application submitted by
Robert Boyer for property located at 4071 West Park Circle in the View Pointe Subdivision.
On July 20, 2010 Debbie Kinjo, a View Pointe Subdivision resident appeared before the City Council
regarding this approval and asked the application be reconsidered. At the July 20, 2010 meeting Mayor
Ritchie noted correctly that Matt Shipp was working with Mr. Boyer to suspend the agreement until
the Open Space Committee has time to address this and other issues on Open Space agreements. Mr.
Shipp informed Mr. Boyer via e-mail on July 20 that his open space agreement was rescinded.
• Staff has been told that Mr. Boyer intends on planting trees in the open space area the weekend
of October 16, 2010.
• A few neighbors in the View Pointe subdivision have contacted member(s) of the City Council
concerning lack of proper notification of the surrounding neighbors.
• The City Council is working with the Open Space committee to establish details to allow open
space agreements based on individual circumstances unique to every open space subdivision.
• The open space agreement dated May 27, 2010 states the following in paragraph seven of the
agreement, “City may in its sole discretion require the removal of said improvements at any
time”.
• Although the City Council did inform Mr. Shipp to work with Mr. Boyer to not allow the
improvements until they have a chance to rework the open space policy, Council never took
formal action.
• At least one member of the City Council has expressed concern that the Council was not
properly informed that the improvements were to take place on open space that was previously
improved.
On October 13, 2010 the City Administrator contacted Mr. Boyer via e-mail asking Mr. Boyer to not
improve the open space the weekend of October 16th in order to allow time for the City Council to
officially review this application.
Back on June 15, when Mr. Boyer submitted his original landscape plan and request to plant on the Open Space behind his home, the plan had included bushes, flower beds, and many trees. The city council told him that he could just plant the trees. According to Mr. Boyer, he had contacted several of the neighbors before talking to the city and they were ok with his plan. After the city approved his plans, the neighbors decided that they didn't want the trees in their open space. The reasons they cited were 1) it would block their views, and 2) it would take up too much space in the Open Space that they all share, and 3) it would be used as a fence for privacy and they don't want fences. After receiving complaints from the neighbors, the city asked Mr. Boyer to not plant the trees until something could be worked out.
Within the last week, several of the City Council Members went and looked at all of the homes locations, the height of the homes, the size of the open space, etc. Mr. Boyer came to the meeting last night ready to revise his landscaping plan to include 6 trees (3 maples, and 3 dwarf blue spruce) which he had already purchased. He wanted to plant all 6 of them 5' off of the back of his property line on the Open Space property. There were several neighbors there and they didn't want that. After MUCH discussion between the City Council members and all of the neighbors, it was decided by the City Council that he can plant 3 trees (of any variety) no more than 5' off of his property and the other 3 trees will have to go on his own property. After this decision was made, the Mayor gave a plea to the neighbors to not let something so small as this mar the relationships they have with one another. The final vote from the CC was: "Yes" Tom, Kathryn, Scott; "No" Larry and Brian.
VI. Communication Items:
1. Lone Peak Public Safety & Police Report (by Larry Mendenhall):
Larry read a bunch of statistics:
Last month they responded to 421 public generated calls and 355 officer generated calls. They did 68 traffic stops, and reponded to 20 medical calls. In Alpine there were 22 animal calls and 22 for Highland. There were 13 abandoned 911 calls in Alpine and 20 abandoned 911 calls in Highland.
Kathy Loveland is our Victim Assistant. She assists citizens in community paperwork, provides leadership, listening ear, and helps family members when there is a death (until other family members arrive).
Chief Botkin recommends that for greater safety we lock up our homes, shut garage doors, and keep animals locked up.
2. Cedar Hills Boundary Adjustment (presented by John Park):
Cedar Hills wants some of our property. They are calling it a "Boundary Adjustment" which is similar to an "Annexation". Part of the property that Cedar Hills wants from us includes their golf course and the Highland Hill by the GC and some county property on SR-92.
Scott S. stated that we need to keep in mind the properties that could some day be developed for a tax base. John Park (City Adm) stated that our city neighbors to the east and west are aggressively expanding their commercial tax bases and we get all of the headache (traffic, etc) and none of the benefits.
What Cedar Hills wants will leave a penninsula for Highland, which by state law should not be done.
Kathryn reminded us that Zone #2 is a "Well Protection Site".
Tom wanted to know if this is a land swap, or is Cedar Hills just wanting our land.
Mayor said that we will send 2 CC members, the city adm. and himself to meet with 2 of their CC members, city adm. and mayor. Kathryn and Brian volunteered to be a part of this committee.
3. Future Work Session (presented by Mayor Ritchie) will be Nov. 3. Nov. 16th the County is invited to go through the Interlocal Agreement. It is very detailed and they need to go through it before it gets put on an agenda. Larry wanted to know why we need to do an Audit Work Session. Kathryn stated that she wants more transparency. $700k and $900k were supposed to be paid to Highland and she want to make sure they were depostied.
John talked about Exaction Fees: There is a contractor (interested in some developing in Highland--I think he said) who wants a session concerning these fees. A work session was set up for Dec. 16th 5:00 before the CC Mtg.
4. Last June, the CC was informed that the monthly water bills (for every citizen) have been $5.02 short for the last 5-7 years. That ends up being $18k short per month and a $215k per year loss. We haven't been running in the red, but because of this, our reserves are not as high as they should be. Last June, it was decided that , since the taxes had already been raised, that they would not raise the water bill yet and wait until the next budget session (in July 2011). Now, there is a need for a new pump. It will take a month before Matt Shipp can get the pump out of the ground to see what it will take to repair it (costs would range from $10k to $200k). Kathryn was very adamant about not raising the fees without public notice. They will discuss this more after they find out how much the repair bill will be. The Public Hearing will be determined at a future time.
Last night, I attended the CC Meeting. Here is my summary of what was discussed:
I. Four citizens made appearances at the beginning:
1. Gerald Omer: lives in a rental that backs up to a public trail. He maintains his area of the trail, but is concerned about debris, concrete chunks, and other misc. that has been showing up on the other parts of the trail. Wanted to know if the city could do a once a year clean up, or post signs.
2. Gina Brown: She stated that money from the city has been set aside for landscaping a hill in the ViewPoint Hill area. She wanted to know if the neighbors could have some input/help plan what is to be landscaped on this hill. Response by John Park (City Administrator): Sprinklers have been put in place. It is a very steep hill and they are looking at planting wildflowers.
3. Kip Gibson: (from Beacon Hills area). Wanted to know if they have revised the fence ordinance and if he was on an upcoming agenda or if there was an update. Response from Nathan Crane (Comm. Dev. Dir.): It is on the Planning Commission Agenda next week. They will work on the proposed ordinance, then it will be come back to the City Council.
II. There was no Public Hearing. It was cancelled because there was no 10 day notice given.
III. Presentation- Annual Library Report (Presented by Kent Slade):
Last year, they had over 6000 borrowers (1/3 of the city). 166k items were circulated. Their goal was to have 25k items and they've exceeded that goal and now have over 29k items catalogued. They have circulated 449 items from other libraries. They've had over 9300 uses on their computers. Over 3,000 children used their Children's Programs. In October 2011 they can submit for a Certified Library and then patrons can use other libraries. This has been their first FULL year of service. We can compare our library size to Payson and Brighm City. They are in need of new staff and money for materials. The videos wear out very quickly. They have a very energetic Library Board. Brian B. asked about goals. Mr. Slade answered that their long range plan is to become State Certified. They have met their goals for this, now it is just waiting time. Scott S. stated that the library is almost built out. In future we'll need to make a plan. Mr. Slade stated that if they could get $10k in next year's budget, they would be able to hire one PT staff.
The question was then brought up about the library fees, and where were they going? Lynn Ruff stated that they money can go back to the Library Foundation. The Mayor requested that the above statistics be mailed to himself and the CC members.
IV. CC Minutes from 10/5/10: A few grammatical changes to the minutes (from Kathryn S). Minutes were adopted and approved.
V. Open Space Improvement (this was the longest portion of the meeting):
Here is the history taken from last night's agenda:
BACKGROUND:
On June 15, 2010 the City Council approved an Open Space Improvement application submitted by
Robert Boyer for property located at 4071 West Park Circle in the View Pointe Subdivision.
On July 20, 2010 Debbie Kinjo, a View Pointe Subdivision resident appeared before the City Council
regarding this approval and asked the application be reconsidered. At the July 20, 2010 meeting Mayor
Ritchie noted correctly that Matt Shipp was working with Mr. Boyer to suspend the agreement until
the Open Space Committee has time to address this and other issues on Open Space agreements. Mr.
Shipp informed Mr. Boyer via e-mail on July 20 that his open space agreement was rescinded.
• Staff has been told that Mr. Boyer intends on planting trees in the open space area the weekend
of October 16, 2010.
• A few neighbors in the View Pointe subdivision have contacted member(s) of the City Council
concerning lack of proper notification of the surrounding neighbors.
• The City Council is working with the Open Space committee to establish details to allow open
space agreements based on individual circumstances unique to every open space subdivision.
• The open space agreement dated May 27, 2010 states the following in paragraph seven of the
agreement, “City may in its sole discretion require the removal of said improvements at any
time”.
• Although the City Council did inform Mr. Shipp to work with Mr. Boyer to not allow the
improvements until they have a chance to rework the open space policy, Council never took
formal action.
• At least one member of the City Council has expressed concern that the Council was not
properly informed that the improvements were to take place on open space that was previously
improved.
On October 13, 2010 the City Administrator contacted Mr. Boyer via e-mail asking Mr. Boyer to not
improve the open space the weekend of October 16th in order to allow time for the City Council to
officially review this application.
Back on June 15, when Mr. Boyer submitted his original landscape plan and request to plant on the Open Space behind his home, the plan had included bushes, flower beds, and many trees. The city council told him that he could just plant the trees. According to Mr. Boyer, he had contacted several of the neighbors before talking to the city and they were ok with his plan. After the city approved his plans, the neighbors decided that they didn't want the trees in their open space. The reasons they cited were 1) it would block their views, and 2) it would take up too much space in the Open Space that they all share, and 3) it would be used as a fence for privacy and they don't want fences. After receiving complaints from the neighbors, the city asked Mr. Boyer to not plant the trees until something could be worked out.
Within the last week, several of the City Council Members went and looked at all of the homes locations, the height of the homes, the size of the open space, etc. Mr. Boyer came to the meeting last night ready to revise his landscaping plan to include 6 trees (3 maples, and 3 dwarf blue spruce) which he had already purchased. He wanted to plant all 6 of them 5' off of the back of his property line on the Open Space property. There were several neighbors there and they didn't want that. After MUCH discussion between the City Council members and all of the neighbors, it was decided by the City Council that he can plant 3 trees (of any variety) no more than 5' off of his property and the other 3 trees will have to go on his own property. After this decision was made, the Mayor gave a plea to the neighbors to not let something so small as this mar the relationships they have with one another. The final vote from the CC was: "Yes" Tom, Kathryn, Scott; "No" Larry and Brian.
VI. Communication Items:
1. Lone Peak Public Safety & Police Report (by Larry Mendenhall):
Larry read a bunch of statistics:
Last month they responded to 421 public generated calls and 355 officer generated calls. They did 68 traffic stops, and reponded to 20 medical calls. In Alpine there were 22 animal calls and 22 for Highland. There were 13 abandoned 911 calls in Alpine and 20 abandoned 911 calls in Highland.
Kathy Loveland is our Victim Assistant. She assists citizens in community paperwork, provides leadership, listening ear, and helps family members when there is a death (until other family members arrive).
Chief Botkin recommends that for greater safety we lock up our homes, shut garage doors, and keep animals locked up.
2. Cedar Hills Boundary Adjustment (presented by John Park):
Cedar Hills wants some of our property. They are calling it a "Boundary Adjustment" which is similar to an "Annexation". Part of the property that Cedar Hills wants from us includes their golf course and the Highland Hill by the GC and some county property on SR-92.
Scott S. stated that we need to keep in mind the properties that could some day be developed for a tax base. John Park (City Adm) stated that our city neighbors to the east and west are aggressively expanding their commercial tax bases and we get all of the headache (traffic, etc) and none of the benefits.
What Cedar Hills wants will leave a penninsula for Highland, which by state law should not be done.
Kathryn reminded us that Zone #2 is a "Well Protection Site".
Tom wanted to know if this is a land swap, or is Cedar Hills just wanting our land.
Mayor said that we will send 2 CC members, the city adm. and himself to meet with 2 of their CC members, city adm. and mayor. Kathryn and Brian volunteered to be a part of this committee.
3. Future Work Session (presented by Mayor Ritchie) will be Nov. 3. Nov. 16th the County is invited to go through the Interlocal Agreement. It is very detailed and they need to go through it before it gets put on an agenda. Larry wanted to know why we need to do an Audit Work Session. Kathryn stated that she wants more transparency. $700k and $900k were supposed to be paid to Highland and she want to make sure they were depostied.
John talked about Exaction Fees: There is a contractor (interested in some developing in Highland--I think he said) who wants a session concerning these fees. A work session was set up for Dec. 16th 5:00 before the CC Mtg.
4. Last June, the CC was informed that the monthly water bills (for every citizen) have been $5.02 short for the last 5-7 years. That ends up being $18k short per month and a $215k per year loss. We haven't been running in the red, but because of this, our reserves are not as high as they should be. Last June, it was decided that , since the taxes had already been raised, that they would not raise the water bill yet and wait until the next budget session (in July 2011). Now, there is a need for a new pump. It will take a month before Matt Shipp can get the pump out of the ground to see what it will take to repair it (costs would range from $10k to $200k). Kathryn was very adamant about not raising the fees without public notice. They will discuss this more after they find out how much the repair bill will be. The Public Hearing will be determined at a future time.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
City Council Meeting 8/17/2010
Hi All:
There were two huge things discussed tonight:
First, approving a contract for the Murdock Connector Highway. It was approved. See my notes. Basically, if the highway costs more than $4 million, Highland City carries ALL costs.
Second, approving expenditures to make the former City Building ADA compliant. $66K approved. I think this is ridiculous.
*********************************
Highland City Council Meeting
August 17th, 2010, 7:00pm
Open Petitions:
1. A woman petitioned for the city to consider reducing building permit fees. She is building a windmill on her property, and has a $260 building permit fee and a $480 conditional use fee (I think because the pole is 45 feet high?)
2. A man showing his support, and also those of his neighbors, for agenda item #7 regarding remodeling the former city hall per ADA requirements. They would like to see it as a building for use of dance recitals and other community events.
Motion: Perpetual Easement on Property to the rear of the former Highland Water Company.
Global Signal Acquisitions has requested to perpetually lease the property. They would essentially purchase it for $223,000. Currently, the income is $16,512/annually. The city would not ever need access to the land. It was recommended by the City Commissioner to table it until they get further information because he feels they have incomplete information. Motion made to continue this item when all information is gathered.
Motion: Approve or Deny the request from Alpine School District for a water requirement reduction for the 9600 N, 6900 W subdivision.
Alpine School District currently owns the subdivision, which consists of 3 lots. One lot is owned by the LDS church, which has already had the requirement waved. The School District asked for the requirement to be waved on the other 2 lots (which are asphalt roadway).
This would set a precedent for excluding waving the water reduction requirements on roads.
My comment: this seems a bit ridiculous. Of course roads should not have a watering requirement.
Moved: to deny the request. Seconded.
Motion: Approving the Interlocal Cooperation Agreement with Utah County for the Highway project known as “Murdock Connector”.
Utah County will reimburse $186,605 of design work purchased by Highland City. Utah County will not reimburse Highland City until they sign the contract.
Utah County obligates Highland City over $4 million dollars for the highway. The city will own the highway and be responsible for maintenance.
A debate ensued for a long time concerning assuming the cost over $4 million on the road. One council member believes the road will cost about $8 million. Another city council member believes this is a great way to get a very good road that we need anyway, and at least we get part of it, if not all, paid for.
Motion to accept the contract, seconded. Ammendment proposed to have $4 million dollars clarified—how exactly will that be spent. Seconded. All in favor.
Motion: Authorizing expenditures as a capital priority to remodel the former City Hall per ADA requirements.
Cities exist to better the residents. We need a gathering place. We need a way to encourage kids to get off the couch and participate, to interact. Two grand pianos have gone unused and been ruined. There is no place to gather for senior citizens. If we have recitals/family events, grandparents will attend. It must be ADA compliant. Arts Council promises to do fundraising for any other costs above making the building ADA complaint. They would not come back to the city for additional funding.
Utilities, paid for by the city, would be about $4000/year. The possibility was raised of recouping that money through rental costs of the rooms in the building.
Is the cash flow good enough for us to do that? $33,000 would come from capital building fund. The rest would come from the general fund.
One Council Member expressed concern that the Highland City has been in crisis mode for the past year and agreed not to discuss this for six months, yet it’s only been two. He believes would should be conservative and wait. He is concerned that this building will simply be a place for the Arts Council and not a community center. He mentioned that the Pointe Academy could work with the Arts Council to use their rooms. Let’s look at the options.
Motion made by Larry Mendenhall to approve the expenditure.
Discussion: City Managers says they feel comfortable with cash flow in approving this request.
Approved.
There were two huge things discussed tonight:
First, approving a contract for the Murdock Connector Highway. It was approved. See my notes. Basically, if the highway costs more than $4 million, Highland City carries ALL costs.
Second, approving expenditures to make the former City Building ADA compliant. $66K approved. I think this is ridiculous.
*********************************
Highland City Council Meeting
August 17th, 2010, 7:00pm
Open Petitions:
1. A woman petitioned for the city to consider reducing building permit fees. She is building a windmill on her property, and has a $260 building permit fee and a $480 conditional use fee (I think because the pole is 45 feet high?)
2. A man showing his support, and also those of his neighbors, for agenda item #7 regarding remodeling the former city hall per ADA requirements. They would like to see it as a building for use of dance recitals and other community events.
Motion: Perpetual Easement on Property to the rear of the former Highland Water Company.
Global Signal Acquisitions has requested to perpetually lease the property. They would essentially purchase it for $223,000. Currently, the income is $16,512/annually. The city would not ever need access to the land. It was recommended by the City Commissioner to table it until they get further information because he feels they have incomplete information. Motion made to continue this item when all information is gathered.
Motion: Approve or Deny the request from Alpine School District for a water requirement reduction for the 9600 N, 6900 W subdivision.
Alpine School District currently owns the subdivision, which consists of 3 lots. One lot is owned by the LDS church, which has already had the requirement waved. The School District asked for the requirement to be waved on the other 2 lots (which are asphalt roadway).
This would set a precedent for excluding waving the water reduction requirements on roads.
My comment: this seems a bit ridiculous. Of course roads should not have a watering requirement.
Moved: to deny the request. Seconded.
Motion: Approving the Interlocal Cooperation Agreement with Utah County for the Highway project known as “Murdock Connector”.
Utah County will reimburse $186,605 of design work purchased by Highland City. Utah County will not reimburse Highland City until they sign the contract.
Utah County obligates Highland City over $4 million dollars for the highway. The city will own the highway and be responsible for maintenance.
A debate ensued for a long time concerning assuming the cost over $4 million on the road. One council member believes the road will cost about $8 million. Another city council member believes this is a great way to get a very good road that we need anyway, and at least we get part of it, if not all, paid for.
Motion to accept the contract, seconded. Ammendment proposed to have $4 million dollars clarified—how exactly will that be spent. Seconded. All in favor.
Motion: Authorizing expenditures as a capital priority to remodel the former City Hall per ADA requirements.
Cities exist to better the residents. We need a gathering place. We need a way to encourage kids to get off the couch and participate, to interact. Two grand pianos have gone unused and been ruined. There is no place to gather for senior citizens. If we have recitals/family events, grandparents will attend. It must be ADA compliant. Arts Council promises to do fundraising for any other costs above making the building ADA complaint. They would not come back to the city for additional funding.
Utilities, paid for by the city, would be about $4000/year. The possibility was raised of recouping that money through rental costs of the rooms in the building.
Is the cash flow good enough for us to do that? $33,000 would come from capital building fund. The rest would come from the general fund.
One Council Member expressed concern that the Highland City has been in crisis mode for the past year and agreed not to discuss this for six months, yet it’s only been two. He believes would should be conservative and wait. He is concerned that this building will simply be a place for the Arts Council and not a community center. He mentioned that the Pointe Academy could work with the Arts Council to use their rooms. Let’s look at the options.
Motion made by Larry Mendenhall to approve the expenditure.
Discussion: City Managers says they feel comfortable with cash flow in approving this request.
Approved.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
City Council Meeting Minutes 20 July 2010
by Devirl
It was a five-hour meeting but an important one for the Country Club Subdivision.
Appearances
1. Greg Parkinson, member of the Open Space Steering Committee (OSSC), spoke first. There is a new U-Haul storage facility in Highland. – Greg asked the City Council to tell the Planning Commission to verify the information an applicant gives them before approving anything. The picture shown to the PC was nothing like what is actually on the site. The buildings were never built and RV’s, boats etc. are being parked there without permission from the City. There are two problems.
a. No PC member visited the site and therefore the PC made an uniformed decision.
b. Enforcement issue - City is not enforcing its own regulations. NOTE: The City Development Director once told me (EDB) that enforcement wasn’t his (City Hall’s) job. They depend on the residents to point out infractions; reactive, not proactive. That assumes the residents know the law and take the initiative to report the problem. It’s been my experience that even when infractions are reported, the city historically does not respond well. I talked to Councilman Smith about this after the meeting. He’s had the same experience and the Council will move to improve on that. I suspect the new City Administrator, John Park, will get an assignment. By the way John came across in the meeting as quite knowledgeable and is not shy about speaking up.
2. Dave Hall, also a member of the OSSC, spoke in support of the proposed ordinance to allow street legal ATV’s to be operated on the city streets. The CC approved the new ordinance and directed Police Chief Botkin to enforce the ordinance ie pull over the ATV drivers and verify that the vehicle is street legal, the driver is licensed and over sixteen. Objective is get the “five year old ATV drivers” off the residential street. The chief said the police department will respond to calls from citizens.
3. Resident Compliant – Similar situation to #1 above: The City Council recently approved an application for a resident to landscape ten feet into an open space area. The applicant misrepresented the impact on the open space area and the neighbors No one actually went out and looked. Scott Smith took responsibility for the bad decision. The applicant’s neighbors complained to the Open Space Committee Monday and spoke at the CC meeting Tuesday. The approval is being rescinded. “This will not happen again.” said Smith.
At this point we were twenty minutes into a five-hour meeting and this report is on its way to being ten pages long. The rest of the notes will be much more cryptic. The meeting minutes will be on the website in about thirty days for those who want all the detail.
Agenda Items – not taken is sequence by the CC.
6.1 Tree Commission Report – Highland was given the Tree City USA award again for about the 12th year. Mayor Ritchie was very complimentary. We were one of just a couple cities that planted over 400 trees this year. The annual tree planting included 3 Eagle Scout projects, 132 volunteers, 258 volunteer hours, and about $8000 in grant money. I’m guessing the replacement value of the trees planted over the past ten years exceeds $3,000,000. Their value will triple in the next ten years.
7.1 & 7.2 Group Home and Elderly Home Ordinances passed. We, the residents in the Country Club Subdivision, received several complements and expressions of appreciation from the Mayor, three council persons and a couple members of the Planning Commission. Some of the comments were:
a. “You did work that we did not have to do.”
b. “This is a model ordinance for other cities to follow.”
c. “I read the ordinance very carefully and couldn’t find anything I would change.”
Larry Mendenhall of the old regime told me personally that they really thought there was nothing they could do but to approve the Makin application. He voted in favor of the new ordinance and was very happy to do so.
7.3 CC approved a temporary change to the Town Center development plan to limit the number of residences to 162 (Toscana Town Houses). The CC still has a lot of research and debate left concerning the town center development.
The CC had three difficult issues handed to them in January. A legal battle over a rehab facility, a large town house development that nobody wanted and a budget that had to be cut. In addition they have the SR-92 construction and the 4800 West widening going on. The covering of the Murdock Canal and the addition of a major trail have added significantly to their burden. They are working hard (the CC probably 20 hours a week each and mayor Ritchie 40+) and solving tough problems.
7.4 Street legal ATV on Highland streets. Alpine passed a similar ordinance 18 months ago and Chief Botkin said the police have not had an increase in accidents, etc. in Alpine.
7.? The CC discussed a farmer’s market for Highland. There was considerable deliberation. The CC was very careful to word it well. I think it got approved.
9.1 There was a serious safety issue so the CC approved a change to Wendy’s drive through traffic flow. “This is a big improvement.” Councilman Smith said he asked a U-DOT supervisor about putting a light in where Town Center Drive enters SR-92. He was told, “Do even talk to me about that.” Matt Shipp, City Engineer, shrugged his shoulders, bounced his head a couple times and said ”Don’t’ worry about it Scott. He says that to everyone. We’re working on it.”
8.1 Use of Highland City Hall for meetings. Tom Butler championed the reduction in use fee for the residents, pushed for longer hours and more availability. Tom said, the building belongs to the residents of Highland and they should be able to use it. He’s trying to make the building more accessible to the citizens. The new cost will be between $10 and $15 per hour and is open to everything but a religious meeting. Tom checked the insurance liability coverage and it’s not a problem. Councilman Smith wanted to verify Tom’s findings.
9.2 There is $460K earmarked for Beacon Hills Park. This is money that has already been collected from developers and can only be spent on the Beacon Hills park. The only problem is the money was collected and sort of moved around over the last couple years and $0 has been spent up there on grass, trees and facilities. The current CC budgeted some money for this and is collecting the funds. They approved $72K to be spent to finalize the plan and start making park like improvements. This has been dragging on for seven years. The current administration is working long overdue issues.
9.3 The CC approve $35K for sod for the Highland Hills Detention Pond. NOTE: The CC is acting in a fiscally responsible way. They check cash flow before funding budgeted projects. If the cash flow drops off they will delay projects that are in the budget. Remember, they cut 9.9% out of the city budget in order to balance the books going forward and to have a little money for long overdue projects. Matt Shipp is making a serious contribution to the city’s cash position by bringing work in house and cutting his budget.
5.1 The CC eliminated an ordinance pertaining to rock crushing outside the gravel pit. West Rock is crushing rock on site so the CC is acting proactively to eliminate the possibility of someone else coming along and setting us a rock crushing facility some where else in Highland. NOTE: West Rock pays Highland City about $12,000 a month for the rock they pull out of the pit. This will go on for another 5 to 10 years.
5.2 International Building Code was adopted by Highland City Council on a 3 to 2 vote. There were about eight companion codes that were included. One of them is the International Fire Code. NOTE: The only thing not specifically called out in the Group Home ordinance that we wanted was a reference to the IFC. The Group Home ordinance states that ”all applicable building and safety ordinances will apply”. We indirectly got the IFC too!! It can be done.
It was a long and successful night. The new administration is making a few minor mistakes BUT they are taking responsibility for them and moving quickly to rectify those errors and are taking steps to resolve many tough issues inherited from the previous administration.
Make it a point to attend the Planning Commission, Tree Commission, Open Space Steering Committee and/or the City Council meetings some time during the next six months. They are public meetings. They are often tedious but what is talked about affect all Highland residents one way or another. We all can make a difference.
It was a five-hour meeting but an important one for the Country Club Subdivision.
Appearances
1. Greg Parkinson, member of the Open Space Steering Committee (OSSC), spoke first. There is a new U-Haul storage facility in Highland. – Greg asked the City Council to tell the Planning Commission to verify the information an applicant gives them before approving anything. The picture shown to the PC was nothing like what is actually on the site. The buildings were never built and RV’s, boats etc. are being parked there without permission from the City. There are two problems.
a. No PC member visited the site and therefore the PC made an uniformed decision.
b. Enforcement issue - City is not enforcing its own regulations. NOTE: The City Development Director once told me (EDB) that enforcement wasn’t his (City Hall’s) job. They depend on the residents to point out infractions; reactive, not proactive. That assumes the residents know the law and take the initiative to report the problem. It’s been my experience that even when infractions are reported, the city historically does not respond well. I talked to Councilman Smith about this after the meeting. He’s had the same experience and the Council will move to improve on that. I suspect the new City Administrator, John Park, will get an assignment. By the way John came across in the meeting as quite knowledgeable and is not shy about speaking up.
2. Dave Hall, also a member of the OSSC, spoke in support of the proposed ordinance to allow street legal ATV’s to be operated on the city streets. The CC approved the new ordinance and directed Police Chief Botkin to enforce the ordinance ie pull over the ATV drivers and verify that the vehicle is street legal, the driver is licensed and over sixteen. Objective is get the “five year old ATV drivers” off the residential street. The chief said the police department will respond to calls from citizens.
3. Resident Compliant – Similar situation to #1 above: The City Council recently approved an application for a resident to landscape ten feet into an open space area. The applicant misrepresented the impact on the open space area and the neighbors No one actually went out and looked. Scott Smith took responsibility for the bad decision. The applicant’s neighbors complained to the Open Space Committee Monday and spoke at the CC meeting Tuesday. The approval is being rescinded. “This will not happen again.” said Smith.
At this point we were twenty minutes into a five-hour meeting and this report is on its way to being ten pages long. The rest of the notes will be much more cryptic. The meeting minutes will be on the website in about thirty days for those who want all the detail.
Agenda Items – not taken is sequence by the CC.
6.1 Tree Commission Report – Highland was given the Tree City USA award again for about the 12th year. Mayor Ritchie was very complimentary. We were one of just a couple cities that planted over 400 trees this year. The annual tree planting included 3 Eagle Scout projects, 132 volunteers, 258 volunteer hours, and about $8000 in grant money. I’m guessing the replacement value of the trees planted over the past ten years exceeds $3,000,000. Their value will triple in the next ten years.
7.1 & 7.2 Group Home and Elderly Home Ordinances passed. We, the residents in the Country Club Subdivision, received several complements and expressions of appreciation from the Mayor, three council persons and a couple members of the Planning Commission. Some of the comments were:
a. “You did work that we did not have to do.”
b. “This is a model ordinance for other cities to follow.”
c. “I read the ordinance very carefully and couldn’t find anything I would change.”
Larry Mendenhall of the old regime told me personally that they really thought there was nothing they could do but to approve the Makin application. He voted in favor of the new ordinance and was very happy to do so.
7.3 CC approved a temporary change to the Town Center development plan to limit the number of residences to 162 (Toscana Town Houses). The CC still has a lot of research and debate left concerning the town center development.
The CC had three difficult issues handed to them in January. A legal battle over a rehab facility, a large town house development that nobody wanted and a budget that had to be cut. In addition they have the SR-92 construction and the 4800 West widening going on. The covering of the Murdock Canal and the addition of a major trail have added significantly to their burden. They are working hard (the CC probably 20 hours a week each and mayor Ritchie 40+) and solving tough problems.
7.4 Street legal ATV on Highland streets. Alpine passed a similar ordinance 18 months ago and Chief Botkin said the police have not had an increase in accidents, etc. in Alpine.
7.? The CC discussed a farmer’s market for Highland. There was considerable deliberation. The CC was very careful to word it well. I think it got approved.
9.1 There was a serious safety issue so the CC approved a change to Wendy’s drive through traffic flow. “This is a big improvement.” Councilman Smith said he asked a U-DOT supervisor about putting a light in where Town Center Drive enters SR-92. He was told, “Do even talk to me about that.” Matt Shipp, City Engineer, shrugged his shoulders, bounced his head a couple times and said ”Don’t’ worry about it Scott. He says that to everyone. We’re working on it.”
8.1 Use of Highland City Hall for meetings. Tom Butler championed the reduction in use fee for the residents, pushed for longer hours and more availability. Tom said, the building belongs to the residents of Highland and they should be able to use it. He’s trying to make the building more accessible to the citizens. The new cost will be between $10 and $15 per hour and is open to everything but a religious meeting. Tom checked the insurance liability coverage and it’s not a problem. Councilman Smith wanted to verify Tom’s findings.
9.2 There is $460K earmarked for Beacon Hills Park. This is money that has already been collected from developers and can only be spent on the Beacon Hills park. The only problem is the money was collected and sort of moved around over the last couple years and $0 has been spent up there on grass, trees and facilities. The current CC budgeted some money for this and is collecting the funds. They approved $72K to be spent to finalize the plan and start making park like improvements. This has been dragging on for seven years. The current administration is working long overdue issues.
9.3 The CC approve $35K for sod for the Highland Hills Detention Pond. NOTE: The CC is acting in a fiscally responsible way. They check cash flow before funding budgeted projects. If the cash flow drops off they will delay projects that are in the budget. Remember, they cut 9.9% out of the city budget in order to balance the books going forward and to have a little money for long overdue projects. Matt Shipp is making a serious contribution to the city’s cash position by bringing work in house and cutting his budget.
5.1 The CC eliminated an ordinance pertaining to rock crushing outside the gravel pit. West Rock is crushing rock on site so the CC is acting proactively to eliminate the possibility of someone else coming along and setting us a rock crushing facility some where else in Highland. NOTE: West Rock pays Highland City about $12,000 a month for the rock they pull out of the pit. This will go on for another 5 to 10 years.
5.2 International Building Code was adopted by Highland City Council on a 3 to 2 vote. There were about eight companion codes that were included. One of them is the International Fire Code. NOTE: The only thing not specifically called out in the Group Home ordinance that we wanted was a reference to the IFC. The Group Home ordinance states that ”all applicable building and safety ordinances will apply”. We indirectly got the IFC too!! It can be done.
It was a long and successful night. The new administration is making a few minor mistakes BUT they are taking responsibility for them and moving quickly to rectify those errors and are taking steps to resolve many tough issues inherited from the previous administration.
Make it a point to attend the Planning Commission, Tree Commission, Open Space Steering Committee and/or the City Council meetings some time during the next six months. They are public meetings. They are often tedious but what is talked about affect all Highland residents one way or another. We all can make a difference.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Emergency Services may be cut
Here is some information that we received. We don't know who the original source is.
"I attended the meeting this morning (Public Safety Board Meeting? - Thursday morning at 7:00 AM), for the public input at the Highland City offices on EMS/Police budgets. (It was at 7:00am, which is darn near impossible for people to attend for public input!!!!)
For right now, they adopted a temporary budget. But these 2 cities are still not in the clear, which will greatly affect our school! If they go with the proposed budget, it will mean we will NOT have a full-time officer on campus next year, and we will NOT be offering the Law Enforcement class. (because Officer Thurston will have to go out on patrol to replace the positions lost)
There are still 2 more times you can give a show of support and request that they DO NOT cut the bduget.
Alpine City Council meeting May 25th 7:00pm
Highland City Council meeting June 1st 7:00pm
PLEASE get the word out, get your neighbors to attend 1 or both of these meetings if you live up here. I don't live in this area, but I am going to both meetings because I work in this area, and so do all of you. If any of you happen to need an ambulance, or police service, you may or may not get it if there aren't enough officers or paramedics able to respond (they cannot leave a call until they are finished, so you would have to WAIT YOUR TURN).
Channel 4 News at 5:00pm tonight will be commenting on this. "
--------------------------------------------
This is what I (EDB) found out.
I talked to Lorie Adams first. She has been the secretary for the Safety Board for 13 years.
I talked to Police Chief Botkin for a few minutes at Lorie's desk.
I talked to Jess Adamson (past mayor) this afternoon.
Jess and I attended the CC budget working meeting Saturday morning.
BACKGROUND - Emergency Medical Services (EMS) -the paramedics and fire fighters - and the Police have separate budgets and different jurisdictions.
POLICE - Two cities served - Alpine and Highland - The board meets at least monthly and each town is represented by two city councilmen. Larry Mendenhall is the chairman this year and Tom Butler is the second representative from Highland. Ken Hastings (sp?) represents Alpine along with one other Alpine city councilman.
Budget Issue - The board is split. Tom and Ken want to cut the police budget more and the other two are holding the line. Lorie said a split board has never happened before. The respective City Councils will have to direct the board members as to how to vote.
Manpower Issue -
1. The current force has 18 police which is the MINIMUM required for double coverage (responder has a backup) and to have Officer Thurston stationed at Lone Peak H. S. One officer retired a few weeks ago so the current staff is 17.
2. According to Jess, the City determined in about 2005 that the Highland/Alpine area needed 20 officers to adequately patrol the area. This was based on the crime rate in 2004. This provided .873 officers per 1000 residents. The national average is 1.7. Lehi and American Fork run around 1.25. NOTE - Two things have changed since 2005. The populations of both cities have grown AND we are currently in a down economy which historically boosts the crime rate. Our current coverage is about .65/1000 or about half of our neighboring towns.
3. The consequence of NOT replacing the retired officer (bring the force back to the 18 minimum) is, according to Chief Botkin, Officer Thurston will have to leave LPHS and go back out on patrol. There are two problems with this scenario. First, LPHS has historically had a serious drug problem and Officer Thurston's presence is seen as a significant deterrent. He may be indirectly lowering the crime rate in the two cities by curtailing the drug traffic. Second, the Alpine School District gives the Highland police department $34K per year (according to Chief Botkin) to have Officer Thurston on campus full time. If we put Officer Thurston back on the street, we loose $34K. In essence, Officer Thurston is a low cost officer doing crime prevention and he is available to respond to an emergency anywhere in the city.
Rumor - There is some talk about reducing the force to 13 officers.
Conclusion - Based on the information i've been given, it appears to me that 18 officers is the minimum force we should have which means we need to hire an officer, pronto.
Citizen Action Item - Go to both the Alpine and Highland City Council public hearings and tell them what you want them to do. Alpine hearing - Tuesday 25 May at 7:00 PM. Highland hearing - Tuesday, 1 June at 7:00 PM.
EMS & FIRE PROTECTION - Three cities served - Alpine, Highland, Cedar Hills. I think the board has five or six members - not sure.
I have conflicting information. I believe Lorie said the EMS budget was alright. Jess however believes the funding for EMS is in big trouble. I have not had time to verify any of what follows.
HISTORY - Highland was the first city to have 24 hours EMS coverage in all of North County. I saw a presentation by the Fire Chief and we have a very impressive operation. If you have an emergency, as a Highland resident you will be attended by highly qualified personnel and they are less than five minutes away.
Budget Issue
1. Highland got a five year grant for 4 paramedics. The grant runs out this year.
2. EMS has to budget $150K per year for the new fire station. This is only the second year, I think.
3. The EMS department ran a "transfer service" for most of North County - taking people to American Fork hospital - but since AF set up their own EMS department last year, they have taken over much of that service. This WAS a major revenue source.
Obvious Conclusion - It appears EMS has lost much of its funding and will see significant cuts IF some creative alternatives are not found soon. The aging population will probably want 24 hour EMS coverage.
Action Item - Again, attend the public hearings and voice an opinion.
BUDGET MEETING LAST SATURDAY
The new City Administrator, John Park?, was at the meeting. He lives near the Highland boarder in American Fork. He takes office on 6 July 2010. I don't know anything more about him.
Budget - Highland appears to be solvent. That's the good news. The bad news is the City Fathers are looking for ways to establish an operating cushion. This means raising fees on sewer, water, etc. Jess and I talked about this after the meeting and applaud their fiscal responsibility but believe there is a better approach. I'm running some numbers and gathering data. More later.
Budgeting and Accountability - Good news. This council is adjusting some of the fees so the money that is collected is used for that service. Today, for example, the sewer charges generate an overage that historically has been moved to other uses. That is how the $700K the developer paid for the Beacon Hill park got used on ... who knows what. Councilman Braithwaight confided in me that he was on the council a year before he realized how the money was being handled. He is adamant about using the money for what it is collected.
BOTTOM LINE -
Government is as good as the citizens make it.
You may want to understand why your fees are going to go up.
Your services are going to go down in the name of cost cutting if you let it.
The City Council wants your input/support.
These are difficult times.
Hard decisions are being made.
You may want to participate.
IDEA -
Would you be interested in a citizen opinion poll?
I could build an email list of "interested citizens" and when an issue comes up I would be willing to gather the background information and then ask your opinion.
For example: Given the discussion on the police force above, would you vote to decrease the force some more, increase the force to 20 or keep it at the current level (18) even if it meant a small ($2/month) increase in your taxes?
"I attended the meeting this morning (Public Safety Board Meeting? - Thursday morning at 7:00 AM), for the public input at the Highland City offices on EMS/Police budgets. (It was at 7:00am, which is darn near impossible for people to attend for public input!!!!)
For right now, they adopted a temporary budget. But these 2 cities are still not in the clear, which will greatly affect our school! If they go with the proposed budget, it will mean we will NOT have a full-time officer on campus next year, and we will NOT be offering the Law Enforcement class. (because Officer Thurston will have to go out on patrol to replace the positions lost)
There are still 2 more times you can give a show of support and request that they DO NOT cut the bduget.
Alpine City Council meeting May 25th 7:00pm
Highland City Council meeting June 1st 7:00pm
PLEASE get the word out, get your neighbors to attend 1 or both of these meetings if you live up here. I don't live in this area, but I am going to both meetings because I work in this area, and so do all of you. If any of you happen to need an ambulance, or police service, you may or may not get it if there aren't enough officers or paramedics able to respond (they cannot leave a call until they are finished, so you would have to WAIT YOUR TURN).
Channel 4 News at 5:00pm tonight will be commenting on this. "
--------------------------------------------
This is what I (EDB) found out.
I talked to Lorie Adams first. She has been the secretary for the Safety Board for 13 years.
I talked to Police Chief Botkin for a few minutes at Lorie's desk.
I talked to Jess Adamson (past mayor) this afternoon.
Jess and I attended the CC budget working meeting Saturday morning.
BACKGROUND - Emergency Medical Services (EMS) -the paramedics and fire fighters - and the Police have separate budgets and different jurisdictions.
POLICE - Two cities served - Alpine and Highland - The board meets at least monthly and each town is represented by two city councilmen. Larry Mendenhall is the chairman this year and Tom Butler is the second representative from Highland. Ken Hastings (sp?) represents Alpine along with one other Alpine city councilman.
Budget Issue - The board is split. Tom and Ken want to cut the police budget more and the other two are holding the line. Lorie said a split board has never happened before. The respective City Councils will have to direct the board members as to how to vote.
Manpower Issue -
1. The current force has 18 police which is the MINIMUM required for double coverage (responder has a backup) and to have Officer Thurston stationed at Lone Peak H. S. One officer retired a few weeks ago so the current staff is 17.
2. According to Jess, the City determined in about 2005 that the Highland/Alpine area needed 20 officers to adequately patrol the area. This was based on the crime rate in 2004. This provided .873 officers per 1000 residents. The national average is 1.7. Lehi and American Fork run around 1.25. NOTE - Two things have changed since 2005. The populations of both cities have grown AND we are currently in a down economy which historically boosts the crime rate. Our current coverage is about .65/1000 or about half of our neighboring towns.
3. The consequence of NOT replacing the retired officer (bring the force back to the 18 minimum) is, according to Chief Botkin, Officer Thurston will have to leave LPHS and go back out on patrol. There are two problems with this scenario. First, LPHS has historically had a serious drug problem and Officer Thurston's presence is seen as a significant deterrent. He may be indirectly lowering the crime rate in the two cities by curtailing the drug traffic. Second, the Alpine School District gives the Highland police department $34K per year (according to Chief Botkin) to have Officer Thurston on campus full time. If we put Officer Thurston back on the street, we loose $34K. In essence, Officer Thurston is a low cost officer doing crime prevention and he is available to respond to an emergency anywhere in the city.
Rumor - There is some talk about reducing the force to 13 officers.
Conclusion - Based on the information i've been given, it appears to me that 18 officers is the minimum force we should have which means we need to hire an officer, pronto.
Citizen Action Item - Go to both the Alpine and Highland City Council public hearings and tell them what you want them to do. Alpine hearing - Tuesday 25 May at 7:00 PM. Highland hearing - Tuesday, 1 June at 7:00 PM.
EMS & FIRE PROTECTION - Three cities served - Alpine, Highland, Cedar Hills. I think the board has five or six members - not sure.
I have conflicting information. I believe Lorie said the EMS budget was alright. Jess however believes the funding for EMS is in big trouble. I have not had time to verify any of what follows.
HISTORY - Highland was the first city to have 24 hours EMS coverage in all of North County. I saw a presentation by the Fire Chief and we have a very impressive operation. If you have an emergency, as a Highland resident you will be attended by highly qualified personnel and they are less than five minutes away.
Budget Issue
1. Highland got a five year grant for 4 paramedics. The grant runs out this year.
2. EMS has to budget $150K per year for the new fire station. This is only the second year, I think.
3. The EMS department ran a "transfer service" for most of North County - taking people to American Fork hospital - but since AF set up their own EMS department last year, they have taken over much of that service. This WAS a major revenue source.
Obvious Conclusion - It appears EMS has lost much of its funding and will see significant cuts IF some creative alternatives are not found soon. The aging population will probably want 24 hour EMS coverage.
Action Item - Again, attend the public hearings and voice an opinion.
BUDGET MEETING LAST SATURDAY
The new City Administrator, John Park?, was at the meeting. He lives near the Highland boarder in American Fork. He takes office on 6 July 2010. I don't know anything more about him.
Budget - Highland appears to be solvent. That's the good news. The bad news is the City Fathers are looking for ways to establish an operating cushion. This means raising fees on sewer, water, etc. Jess and I talked about this after the meeting and applaud their fiscal responsibility but believe there is a better approach. I'm running some numbers and gathering data. More later.
Budgeting and Accountability - Good news. This council is adjusting some of the fees so the money that is collected is used for that service. Today, for example, the sewer charges generate an overage that historically has been moved to other uses. That is how the $700K the developer paid for the Beacon Hill park got used on ... who knows what. Councilman Braithwaight confided in me that he was on the council a year before he realized how the money was being handled. He is adamant about using the money for what it is collected.
BOTTOM LINE -
Government is as good as the citizens make it.
You may want to understand why your fees are going to go up.
Your services are going to go down in the name of cost cutting if you let it.
The City Council wants your input/support.
These are difficult times.
Hard decisions are being made.
You may want to participate.
IDEA -
Would you be interested in a citizen opinion poll?
I could build an email list of "interested citizens" and when an issue comes up I would be willing to gather the background information and then ask your opinion.
For example: Given the discussion on the police force above, would you vote to decrease the force some more, increase the force to 20 or keep it at the current level (18) even if it meant a small ($2/month) increase in your taxes?
Friday, April 23, 2010
April 20, 2010 City Council Meeting
Highland City Council
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Appearances:
• Beacon Hill representative expressed the responsibility of city to build a park in their subdivision citing a contractual obligation the city has to put the park in. Beacon Hill has collected money from lots sold specifically for the building of park. Law shows that impact fees must be accounted for. The citizens are getting angry.
Response: Lynn Ritchie expressed that the money has been spent on parks, but not on the Beacon Hill Park yet. He said we intend to do that, we just need the money. The code specifies that it needs to be spent on parks in six years, but not a specific park. They are looking to start a multi-year project to work towards putting one in.
• Paul Reynolds wants the city to revisit the fence ordinance in Beacon Hill.
Response: The city is in the process of putting together an Open Space Committee. They will be sending letters out to participants for that in the next day or two and will work with each of the subdivisions.
• Richard Miller from Highland Heights wants deck problem addressed.
Response: The Open Space Committee will address that too.
Presentation/Public Hearings:
• UDOT SR-92 – Widening Project Update
The overall corridor theme is to mimic what you would find in American Fork Canyon. The entrance city monument sign will be made of cultured stone, and “Highland City” will light up on the sign. There will be walls on the sides of Dry Creek, with a pedestrian pathway underneath highway. A box covert will carry the stream flow. The corridor will accommodate bikes. UDOT asked for acceptance of landscaping concept, concurrence of entry feature, agreement of city participation and maintenance agreement.
Response: Mr. Braithwaite expressed concern regarding the entrance logo, that it is too busy. UDOT will make adjustments in a week, and then the City will get back to UDOT in two weeks at the next meeting.
• Public Hearing on the Surplus of Property located along 4800 West to include the home at 10945 North 4800 West. Home was bought by city. It will be either sold and moved or demolished.
Action Items:
• 9.1 Gary Cooper owns the burned out house on 6800 West and appealed to the City Council to stay the condemnation of the structure until 31 July 2010. The City first contacted Mr. Cooper in September 2009 but for various reasons (some legitimate) he ignored the City. The City has been receiving as many as five phone calls a week about the structure and they finally sent Mr. Cooper a notice he couldn’t ignore. After about twenty minutes of discussion the Council agreed to give Mr. Cooper until 31 July to clear the property. The Council was rational in their deliberation, insistent and fair.
• 9.2 UDOT is widening SR-92 and will landscape both sides. UDOT is asking the city to sign an agreement to maintain the landscaping. “It the gateway to the city.” The Council did not give the Mayor permission to sign the agreement until certain clarifications were made. The Council anticipates approval on 4 May 2010.
It was interesting and pleasing to see care with which the Council debated the issue.
Councilman Brian Braithwaite questioned the wording of the agreement pointing out many inconsistencies and ambiguities in the process. “I want to make sure we understand what we are committing to.”
Councilman Scott Smith objected to the grass and tree plan because it is going to be expensive maintain AND we do NOT have the money to finish the parks in the city. Scott suggested we look at low maintenance, low water landscaping for at least part of the project. He wants a maintenance estimate before he approves it.
Councilman Tom Butler had estimated it would cost $5,500 a season to mow the mile lone landscape based on the number of square feet of grass involved. Water and sprinkler maintenance was not included.
Councilman Larry Mendenhall reminded the Council that SR-92 is the gateway to the city and it should not be landscaped and maintained “on the cheap”.
Councilman Scott Smith pointed out that we need to recognize that we live in a desert and need to conserve our resources. Someone supported this notion by pointing out the median on Alpine Highway is low maintenance and quite attractive.
• 9.3 Similar to 9.2 and continued to 4 May for the same reasons.
Minutes:
• 11.1 The PC and CC had a joint working session concerning the new ordinance for rehab facilities. The PC will discuss their final draft on 27 April and the CC anticipates reviewing in the following Tuesday, 4 May. Note: Mr. Barfuss submitted a one-page critique to the Planning Commission and City Staff on the current draft on 18 April. The ordinance, as written, looks quite good.
Council/Staff Reports
• 12.2 Open Space landscape maintenance cost $636,000 last year. The Parks Department estimates they can do the job in house at a substantial savings. Councilman Braithwaite was complementary BUT skeptical. There was considerable discussion. Councilperson Kathryn Schramm pointed out the MD Properties came back two different times asking for more money; an additional $111,000 for sprinkler repair, for example, in addition to a gas price increase and a cost of living increase.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Appearances:
• Beacon Hill representative expressed the responsibility of city to build a park in their subdivision citing a contractual obligation the city has to put the park in. Beacon Hill has collected money from lots sold specifically for the building of park. Law shows that impact fees must be accounted for. The citizens are getting angry.
Response: Lynn Ritchie expressed that the money has been spent on parks, but not on the Beacon Hill Park yet. He said we intend to do that, we just need the money. The code specifies that it needs to be spent on parks in six years, but not a specific park. They are looking to start a multi-year project to work towards putting one in.
• Paul Reynolds wants the city to revisit the fence ordinance in Beacon Hill.
Response: The city is in the process of putting together an Open Space Committee. They will be sending letters out to participants for that in the next day or two and will work with each of the subdivisions.
• Richard Miller from Highland Heights wants deck problem addressed.
Response: The Open Space Committee will address that too.
Presentation/Public Hearings:
• UDOT SR-92 – Widening Project Update
The overall corridor theme is to mimic what you would find in American Fork Canyon. The entrance city monument sign will be made of cultured stone, and “Highland City” will light up on the sign. There will be walls on the sides of Dry Creek, with a pedestrian pathway underneath highway. A box covert will carry the stream flow. The corridor will accommodate bikes. UDOT asked for acceptance of landscaping concept, concurrence of entry feature, agreement of city participation and maintenance agreement.
Response: Mr. Braithwaite expressed concern regarding the entrance logo, that it is too busy. UDOT will make adjustments in a week, and then the City will get back to UDOT in two weeks at the next meeting.
• Public Hearing on the Surplus of Property located along 4800 West to include the home at 10945 North 4800 West. Home was bought by city. It will be either sold and moved or demolished.
Action Items:
• 9.1 Gary Cooper owns the burned out house on 6800 West and appealed to the City Council to stay the condemnation of the structure until 31 July 2010. The City first contacted Mr. Cooper in September 2009 but for various reasons (some legitimate) he ignored the City. The City has been receiving as many as five phone calls a week about the structure and they finally sent Mr. Cooper a notice he couldn’t ignore. After about twenty minutes of discussion the Council agreed to give Mr. Cooper until 31 July to clear the property. The Council was rational in their deliberation, insistent and fair.
• 9.2 UDOT is widening SR-92 and will landscape both sides. UDOT is asking the city to sign an agreement to maintain the landscaping. “It the gateway to the city.” The Council did not give the Mayor permission to sign the agreement until certain clarifications were made. The Council anticipates approval on 4 May 2010.
It was interesting and pleasing to see care with which the Council debated the issue.
Councilman Brian Braithwaite questioned the wording of the agreement pointing out many inconsistencies and ambiguities in the process. “I want to make sure we understand what we are committing to.”
Councilman Scott Smith objected to the grass and tree plan because it is going to be expensive maintain AND we do NOT have the money to finish the parks in the city. Scott suggested we look at low maintenance, low water landscaping for at least part of the project. He wants a maintenance estimate before he approves it.
Councilman Tom Butler had estimated it would cost $5,500 a season to mow the mile lone landscape based on the number of square feet of grass involved. Water and sprinkler maintenance was not included.
Councilman Larry Mendenhall reminded the Council that SR-92 is the gateway to the city and it should not be landscaped and maintained “on the cheap”.
Councilman Scott Smith pointed out that we need to recognize that we live in a desert and need to conserve our resources. Someone supported this notion by pointing out the median on Alpine Highway is low maintenance and quite attractive.
• 9.3 Similar to 9.2 and continued to 4 May for the same reasons.
Minutes:
• 11.1 The PC and CC had a joint working session concerning the new ordinance for rehab facilities. The PC will discuss their final draft on 27 April and the CC anticipates reviewing in the following Tuesday, 4 May. Note: Mr. Barfuss submitted a one-page critique to the Planning Commission and City Staff on the current draft on 18 April. The ordinance, as written, looks quite good.
Council/Staff Reports
• 12.2 Open Space landscape maintenance cost $636,000 last year. The Parks Department estimates they can do the job in house at a substantial savings. Councilman Braithwaite was complementary BUT skeptical. There was considerable discussion. Councilperson Kathryn Schramm pointed out the MD Properties came back two different times asking for more money; an additional $111,000 for sprinkler repair, for example, in addition to a gas price increase and a cost of living increase.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
April 6, 2010 City Council Meeting
Items presented at the Highland City Council meeting on April 6, 2010
1) Delinquent Business Licenses. There were 29 out of 365 business licenses delinquent. Authorization to revoke these delinquent business licenses passed council unanimously.
2) Consideration of Removal of Stice Acres Subdivision Plat Condition, 6900 West 10300 North. Consideration about removing the restriction for Large Animals. After lengthy discussion, it was decided that the City does not have the authority to enforce the subdivision plat requirements.
3) Discussion about a proposal from UDOT to transfer the jurisdiction of SR-74 from UDOT to Highland City. Questions arose about the cost to Highland City to assume this jurisdiction. Discussion about exchanging 4800 West for SR-74 occurred. Motion to study the cost of each, 4800 West and SR-74, was passed. Also goal set to have UDOT present at a city council meeting to present more information passed unanimously.
4) IM Flash/Lehi Annexation Proposal discussed. IM Flash has requested that Highland not protest Lehi's annexation of IM Flash. Discussion covered following:
a) annexation is proposal of property owner (IM Flash) not Lehi City.
b) Kathryn Schramm argued that annexation policy had already been agreed on earlier.
c) Larry Mendenhall suggested a "sales pitch" to IM Flash for Highland's land.
Plan decided on: Letter from City to Lehi notifying that HIghland will protest the annexation. This was agreed on unanimously by the Council.
5) Timpanogos Special Service District Information. There are plans to expand this adjacent to the existing site. Bids are in. Highland utilities have already had one increase to support the cost of this facility. There will be two more increases over the next three years, likely a 15-20% increase in our sewer costs.
6) There is a Special Council Meeting set to interview the final 3 candidates for City Administrator on May 6th.
Though this summary seems short, the meeting lasted 2 1/2 hours; this is the Readers Digest version. Thanks to all for supporting HOPE and being involved in our community.
1) Delinquent Business Licenses. There were 29 out of 365 business licenses delinquent. Authorization to revoke these delinquent business licenses passed council unanimously.
2) Consideration of Removal of Stice Acres Subdivision Plat Condition, 6900 West 10300 North. Consideration about removing the restriction for Large Animals. After lengthy discussion, it was decided that the City does not have the authority to enforce the subdivision plat requirements.
3) Discussion about a proposal from UDOT to transfer the jurisdiction of SR-74 from UDOT to Highland City. Questions arose about the cost to Highland City to assume this jurisdiction. Discussion about exchanging 4800 West for SR-74 occurred. Motion to study the cost of each, 4800 West and SR-74, was passed. Also goal set to have UDOT present at a city council meeting to present more information passed unanimously.
4) IM Flash/Lehi Annexation Proposal discussed. IM Flash has requested that Highland not protest Lehi's annexation of IM Flash. Discussion covered following:
a) annexation is proposal of property owner (IM Flash) not Lehi City.
b) Kathryn Schramm argued that annexation policy had already been agreed on earlier.
c) Larry Mendenhall suggested a "sales pitch" to IM Flash for Highland's land.
Plan decided on: Letter from City to Lehi notifying that HIghland will protest the annexation. This was agreed on unanimously by the Council.
5) Timpanogos Special Service District Information. There are plans to expand this adjacent to the existing site. Bids are in. Highland utilities have already had one increase to support the cost of this facility. There will be two more increases over the next three years, likely a 15-20% increase in our sewer costs.
6) There is a Special Council Meeting set to interview the final 3 candidates for City Administrator on May 6th.
Though this summary seems short, the meeting lasted 2 1/2 hours; this is the Readers Digest version. Thanks to all for supporting HOPE and being involved in our community.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Mar. 2, 2010 City Council
Highland City Council Meeting
March 2nd, 2010
Attendees: Brain W. Braithwaite (Council Member), Tom Butler (Council Member), Larry Mendenhall (Council Member), Lynn V. Ritchie (Mayor), Kathryn Schramm (Council Member), Scott Smith (Council Member)
Open Issues:
1. Woman who was told that she could have animals on her property: She was told that she could by Highland City. Called ten times to confirm. Now she is told she is in violation. Asked that her two animals could remain on the property for the time being.
2. Fence needed on 4800 West Street. Petition signed by neighborhood. They were told they would get one. Would start at SR-92 and end at Canyon Road.
Public Hearing on the 2009-2010 Fiscal Budget:
1. Increase revenue for open spaces budget.
2. Had to adjust such items as traffic revenues, sales tax, and library revenue downward.
3. Adjusting salaries downward, such as city administrator which they don’t have at this time. Reducing benefit costs.
4. Most items were over-budgeted.
5. Adjusted parks and cemeteries upward (repairs).
6. Over-budgeted garbage by 100K.
7. Found savings on 220K on sewer.
8. Net savings: $297,292.
9. $262,400 net between revenues and expenditures.
My impressions: It seems that the gentleman who presented the financials did cost projections on actual figures. I’m not sure if whoever did the budget last year didn’t have any concrete numbers to base their figures on or if they were just lazy, but they were obviously way off.
The budget will be presented again in June. It will be updated twice per year.
Manuel Bueno, a citizen of Highland, posed the question of fiscal responsibility because the new mayor and city councilmen ran on this platform. There was no comment on this. Next meeting will have an ordinance to adopt the amendments to the budget.
Ordinance: Considering an ordinance amending the impact fee schedule
Wants to change impact fee schedule (for the towne center multi-family housing development Toscana) to be consistent with multi-family. Contends that the actual impact COSTS for builders (what it costs the city) is much higher. Proposes that we increase fees consistent with actual use. Based on 2.75 people per town home. FYI, impact fees are for items such as water (culinary and irrigation) and sewer. Personally, I agree. Kathryn Schramm asked who would pay for the water that would fill the Toscana pool (which will not be public). Answer: Toscana would hook up to fire hydrant and would be charged by the gallon (water would be metered). Other sites that would be affected: church and commercial.
Motion: For City Staff to schedule a public hearing to discuss amending the impact fee schedule. Seconded.
One of the Highland City citizens who drafted the Utah State impact fee laws commented: said the city was discussing five different issues. Impact fees historically are not high enough. Main point: collect impact fees to fund future obligations. You can charge impact fees based on different use, but it should be based on future infrastructure change/capital facilities plan. They have approximately seven years once they charge the fee to actually use the fee.
Motion retracted, and second retracted.
Motion: For City staff to identify from the capital improvements budget and other city needs through build out what the cost expectations will be for the city and that they return with proposed impact fee changes and bring it to the next meeting if possible. Seconded.
Ordinance: Considering an Ordinance to deal with disposal of real (public) property.
Motion: Council adopt an ordinance repealing section 2.44 and re-enacting 2.44 with changes stated clarifying real public property and equipment and licensed appraiser. Seconded.
Resolution: Considering a Resolution authorizing the Mayor to execute a Provo Reservoir Canal Rights-of-way Greenway Interlocal Agreement for purpose of constructing a multi-use trail. There is a 7% match (Highland city has to match at 7%). The Mayor originally told the City it would be a zero cost project. There were over 100 people at the open house about the project, all in support. Scott Smith presented the issues related to this. He reviewed the state law and the proposed project in detail. He wants to make sure what the city’s entire obligation will be on this trail. Worried that the trail doesn’t follow the easement and will affect property owners. Answer: the trail isn’t clearly marked yet. Another concern: the trail won’t be fully landscaped except with native grasses. Also wondered if maintenance vehicles would be accommodated. Answer: yes.
My impressions:
The new mayor and city council are doing a great job. They are doing their due diligence about Toscana, the budget and the trail. Their attention to detail is impressive.
March 2nd, 2010
Attendees: Brain W. Braithwaite (Council Member), Tom Butler (Council Member), Larry Mendenhall (Council Member), Lynn V. Ritchie (Mayor), Kathryn Schramm (Council Member), Scott Smith (Council Member)
Open Issues:
1. Woman who was told that she could have animals on her property: She was told that she could by Highland City. Called ten times to confirm. Now she is told she is in violation. Asked that her two animals could remain on the property for the time being.
2. Fence needed on 4800 West Street. Petition signed by neighborhood. They were told they would get one. Would start at SR-92 and end at Canyon Road.
Public Hearing on the 2009-2010 Fiscal Budget:
1. Increase revenue for open spaces budget.
2. Had to adjust such items as traffic revenues, sales tax, and library revenue downward.
3. Adjusting salaries downward, such as city administrator which they don’t have at this time. Reducing benefit costs.
4. Most items were over-budgeted.
5. Adjusted parks and cemeteries upward (repairs).
6. Over-budgeted garbage by 100K.
7. Found savings on 220K on sewer.
8. Net savings: $297,292.
9. $262,400 net between revenues and expenditures.
My impressions: It seems that the gentleman who presented the financials did cost projections on actual figures. I’m not sure if whoever did the budget last year didn’t have any concrete numbers to base their figures on or if they were just lazy, but they were obviously way off.
The budget will be presented again in June. It will be updated twice per year.
Manuel Bueno, a citizen of Highland, posed the question of fiscal responsibility because the new mayor and city councilmen ran on this platform. There was no comment on this. Next meeting will have an ordinance to adopt the amendments to the budget.
Ordinance: Considering an ordinance amending the impact fee schedule
Wants to change impact fee schedule (for the towne center multi-family housing development Toscana) to be consistent with multi-family. Contends that the actual impact COSTS for builders (what it costs the city) is much higher. Proposes that we increase fees consistent with actual use. Based on 2.75 people per town home. FYI, impact fees are for items such as water (culinary and irrigation) and sewer. Personally, I agree. Kathryn Schramm asked who would pay for the water that would fill the Toscana pool (which will not be public). Answer: Toscana would hook up to fire hydrant and would be charged by the gallon (water would be metered). Other sites that would be affected: church and commercial.
Motion: For City Staff to schedule a public hearing to discuss amending the impact fee schedule. Seconded.
One of the Highland City citizens who drafted the Utah State impact fee laws commented: said the city was discussing five different issues. Impact fees historically are not high enough. Main point: collect impact fees to fund future obligations. You can charge impact fees based on different use, but it should be based on future infrastructure change/capital facilities plan. They have approximately seven years once they charge the fee to actually use the fee.
Motion retracted, and second retracted.
Motion: For City staff to identify from the capital improvements budget and other city needs through build out what the cost expectations will be for the city and that they return with proposed impact fee changes and bring it to the next meeting if possible. Seconded.
Ordinance: Considering an Ordinance to deal with disposal of real (public) property.
Motion: Council adopt an ordinance repealing section 2.44 and re-enacting 2.44 with changes stated clarifying real public property and equipment and licensed appraiser. Seconded.
Resolution: Considering a Resolution authorizing the Mayor to execute a Provo Reservoir Canal Rights-of-way Greenway Interlocal Agreement for purpose of constructing a multi-use trail. There is a 7% match (Highland city has to match at 7%). The Mayor originally told the City it would be a zero cost project. There were over 100 people at the open house about the project, all in support. Scott Smith presented the issues related to this. He reviewed the state law and the proposed project in detail. He wants to make sure what the city’s entire obligation will be on this trail. Worried that the trail doesn’t follow the easement and will affect property owners. Answer: the trail isn’t clearly marked yet. Another concern: the trail won’t be fully landscaped except with native grasses. Also wondered if maintenance vehicles would be accommodated. Answer: yes.
My impressions:
The new mayor and city council are doing a great job. They are doing their due diligence about Toscana, the budget and the trail. Their attention to detail is impressive.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Feb. 2, 2010 City Council Meeting
Interim Attorney introduced: Kaycee Wright, Hansen & Hayes Law (not sure how to spell his name?)
5. CONSENT CALENDAR
5.1 Consent of Planning Commissioners as Appointed - Mayor Ritchie, approved
New Planning Commissioners introduced:
- Tim Irwin (Beacon Hills, has lived here 2 years and plans to stay permanently, retired from travel business, wants to make sure Highland remains a great place to live)
- Jay Roundy (4 years on Tree Commission, created designs for several of the new parks, was on planning commission in another city, chairman of the board of variance, licensed land planner, architect, environmental engineering doctorate, environmental law doctorate, has worked with both federal and state organizations.
- Kelly Sobotka, has been on planning commission for the past 2 years: 1 year as an alternate, 1 year as a planner. Has lived in Highland 35 years, has a young family, coaches baseball, Better Business Bureau board of directors for Utah, Boy Scouts of America Nat’l Parks Council, part owner of a business in Salt Lake, 5 kids
- Steve Rock (not present)
-Abe Day (not present)
-Chris Kemp: has been a resident for 3 years, works in construction and real estate, BYU graduate in business and construction mgt, has served on planning commission for other cities
Tony Pexton, who had been serving on Planning Commission, was recognized for exemplary service.
5.2 Consent of Library Board Members as Appointed - Mayor Ritchie, approved
5.3 Consent to a Resolution appointing Lonnie Crowell as Highland City’s representative on the Utah Valley Dispatch Special Service District - Mayor Ritchie
Kathryn Schramm thinks Lonnie has his hands full and it would be beneficial to have another citizen serve in this capacity. (Lonnie expressed agreement) Motion to post-pone this decision to Feb 16 approved until another citizen can be identified.
5.4 Consider a 6 month extension for the Waterford Estates Final Plat, a 7 lot subdivision located at 5830 West 11750 North - Lonnie Crowell -approved
6. PRESENTATIONS/PUBLIC INPUT/PUBLIC HEARINGS
6.1 Presentation by Consultant Craig Peterson for Engineering and Government Affair issues vital to Highland City
Craig Peterson, Engineering and Gov Affair consultant to City and Highland City resident, report on items:
Background: resident since 1983, engineering degree, career working on infrastructure, VP of architecture and engineering firm, worked for large civil engineering and design firm, retired and became contract lobbyist, worked with UT legislature for 23 years, majority leader in UT Senate, does other representation as well. (For reference, Highland city contract Oct 2007 to June 2008) Craig’s report:
- Has been instrumental in obtaining/maintaining funding for key Highland projects.
- Maintaining form of government, cooperative agreement with Alpine justice of peace and court system
- Maintaining funding for SR-92.
- 9400 N project, East/West Corridor easements (8-10 months) by State Developmental Ctr, difficulty in determining who had the authority to approve and fund. Lisa Michelle Church Family Services owns decision, so he will be working with her.
- Murdock connector right of way. Highland is member of Irma. Under legal action by retirees up to $1.8M.
Council comments:
- Scott Smith questions if we continue to need a lobbyist when building permit volume has decreased. Perhaps staff could do this work.
- Mendenhall says he feels this role in vital because Peterson has connections and the know-how to move these difficult issues forward. Not the strength of City staff.
- Kathryn Schramm says if we do decide to renew contract, he gets paid quarterly, up through Sept 2009. He is not receiving his customary billing rate, but this is his community, so is happy to continue working with city at this rate.
6.2 Public Input for the Provo Reservoir Canal Rights-of-Way Greenway Interlocal Agreement
This is regarding the Murdock Canal piping project, and the trail they want to build. Comments from the public:
-Jess Adamson has been involved in this project since 1995, Highland’s backbone trail, goes along Murdock Canal, connects to Provo trail, connects to Point of the Mountain, up through Parley’s Canyon. We have negotiated in good faith for many years to have this trail and now a government grant will cover the cost of this trail. Now is not the time to back down. We have worked for years planning for this trail.
-Dan Burkman, Alpine resident, disagrees with putting in the trail. Prefers spending on potholes on SR-92. Lives here because of beauty, does not want to look out back window and see marathon runners on a trail. He is a Principal in SLC. He doesn’t want a foot-highway in his backyard.
-Another resident (I didn’t catch his name), doesn’t want trail. Thinks he will need a security fence to keep people out of his backyard.
-Diana Tallmon backyard on Canal – doesn’t want trail. Concerned about cost. Doesn’t like the idea of a connector trail from Provo to SLC, doesn’t want people traveling through the community.
-Another resident. Doesn’t want the city to spend money on a trail. Every city is short on money – no one should be spending money right now. (Mayor clarified that city will not need to cover cost of trail – grant is covering cost)
-Dean Carroll. Trail would be right behind his house. He wants it finished up. This is what Highland is about, our great trail system
-Scott, Canterbury. He is from Boise where he enjoyed a great trail system. Thinks it would solve a problem of giving children and teens something to do in community.
-Pheasant Hollow. During Winter can’t walk on sidewalks in city because sidewalks not cleared. If we put in trail, we need to be able to clear snow and maintain it. We need to be able to police and maintain trail.
-Christy Bally. Murdock Canal is behind her house. She is in favor of trails. It will be a mess at first during construction, but thinks it will turn out very nice.
-Scott Smith concerned that Highland newsletter not clear about trail, most citizens don’t know what Provo Greenway is, would know it by Murdock Canal trail.
-Tom Butler asked Kip Botkin Police Chief his opinion about trail: Doesn’t expect a severe adverse impact on crime. Familiar with Orem and Provo trails, they have not had huge crime impact from trail. Does expect police will need to patrol. Trail will open up community and will actually get more eyes out there. Had an officer assigned for about 7 weeks to existing trails, and during that entire time, only 2-3 citations, most of the time for a dog off a leash; nothing major. It will have an impact on resources, but not a huge impact.
-Steve Caine from Provo River Water Users was present at meeting to answer questions:
-Smith: Likes trails, not opposed to piping project of Canal. Concern, trail is a major change to this environment. Thinks we should present more information to community and enlist more feedback. Need to address what happens when trail comes to SR-92 (safety issue). We are responsible for 65% of maintenance.
-Engineer, PW Richard Neilson addressing questions from Smith: funding from the government will address busy intersections. Trail will go under street for busy roads. As long as you can see through tunnel as you approach it (you can see daylight on the other end), then you generally do not have security and safety issues. Is trail elevated? Grading will be the same or slightly lower than current elevation. Why is it called a greenway when it is an asphalt trail? What responsibility does city have for landscaping? County responsible for paved surface. City opportunity to landscape as desired. (Although can’t have deep rooted items-trees). Will the trail be fenced from adjourning neighborhoods? Same as it is today, fairly open design. Will it meet ADA requirements? Yes. 1:14 slope. What is annual maintenance for city? $8400 is estimated (snow removal, signage, etc.) Any improvements need to go through County and Provo Water Users? Yes, but County is informal process; and Provo River Water Users anticipate a broad usage of trail so should not be a barrier. Do we need to decide tonight or can we post-pone after further citizen discussions? Late Feb/early March would be best to finalize UDOT funding and contract for Provo River Water project done and ready by October; it would be best for the trail decision completed at the same time for economy of scale on funding/resources working on project.
- Mendenhall: Should call this Legacy trail. We should preserve this project for our children. Provo has not had security issues on their trail (he read statistics from police stats). 343 incidents in Provo canyon only 1 a genuine trail incident. Hobble Creek – 89 incidents, 0 in trail. There should be limited concern for security on these trails. There may be some loss of privacy. This is something we need to do. Cost of trail is incidental. We are able at no cost to Highland to put this trail in place. Our long term commitment is for maintenance of trail. We need to be good citizens. There is no negative long-term impact. We are getting a wonderful addition to Highland for a very low cost.
-Butler addressing questions to Neilson/Caine: Is it correct that when the canal is piped, that the roads will be returned to current condition. Yes. One reason to do this is to eliminate sea-pitch. What will happen to Highland irrigation users? Our contribution to the ground-water is pretty negligible, so shouldn’t be impacted. Regarding the money Highland would pay to move/re-establish utilities ($410k) Is this a hard figure, and what if we don’t enter into this agreement? $410k an early estimate; we believe the number will be reduced significantly now that we have more detailed information (he doesn’t know exact number now). Highland has a lot of water crossings which come into contact with utilities. This is a situation that already exists. Provo River Water usage covers 25% of this cost, and rest of cost spread out over time. This is an already existing legal obligation regardless of the Trail decision. Butler: Concern from South Salt Lake PD regarding trail. Has gradually lost public appeal and crime rates have increased. Lewdness, illegal alcohol consumption by minors, graffiti. Constantly works trailway; about 20 hrs/week. 41 arrests 2009. Realizes demographics are significantly different from Highland. Recommends security be discussed up-front. Captain Jack Ruth. This is a want not a need. Concerned about 50-year commitment. Governments are in fiscal trouble because they accepted so many gov grants that had strings attached. This agreement has strings attached. We have to help with maintenance if something goes wrong on trail. We give up our liberty if we agree to this. He doesn’t think being a good citizen is to bite off on every project that comes along.
-Braithwaite: We cannot compare the South SLC trail to the Provo and Utah County trails; they are very different. We have a completely open area. There are no bushes and trees up against this trail. He has run hundreds of miles on the SLC trails, and thousands of miles on the Utah County trails. The SLC trails do have security concerns; the Utah County trails are very different and do not have a security concern. They are open and not surrounded by brush and foliage. This is a great trail and has been part of the plan for decades. It is no different than the other trails we have. He heavily uses our trails and generally sees people in our area using the trails; our friends and neighbors walking, running, biking. This is a wide open area. We will not see criminals traveling to our area to walk on our trails. It will be us using the trails. We receive money from the federal government all the time. Why? Because we pay money to the government all the time. We pay gasoline taxes, and we receive funding back from the government for appropriate projects. We are receiving funding for a great project which we have been planning for, for decades. This trail is in our master plan. We want this trail. We want to see people outside using these trails. I’m not concerned about a long-term commitment to maintain the trail. We have much longer commitments to maintain our roads and buildings. Maintaining the trail is not a concern.
-Schramm: Need to hold a public meeting regarding this. People around here don’t realize this is the “Murdock Trail” project.
-Smith: We have a lot of poorly planned projects already in the city. We have compelling arguments to close the canal, but we need more citizen input regarding the trail.
-Mendenhall: This trail has been discussed for a long-time. Residents have a responsibility to get informed on these decisions. Let’s not delay this decision. The timeline is at risk for getting this through UDOT. There is no reason to delay this.
It was voted to continue this item for another 30-days to get more public input via a public meeting with better language to make it clear this is regarding the Murdock trail.
7. ORDINANCES
7.1 Consider an Ordinance placing a Moratorium on the Town Center Overlay Zone - Lonnie Crowell - (10 min.)
-Jess Adamson, expressed concerns about the city. (I cannot type fast enough to capture all the information Jess provided…) Town Center concerns. He has been involved in government since 1993. Toscana proposal and approval is concerning. Much too high of a density for Highland: less than 7.2 acres, 162 units, 6 people/unit = 22.5 units/acre. No one in North Utah County has this type of density. Number of parking spaces not adequate;, needing to use parking spaces outside of the 7.2 acres. Hate to see the town center become a parking lot. We don’t have floor plans – we don’t know what to expect. Approved in planning commission without being approved through council. Where is the green space? How much asphalt in comparison to grass? What about frontages? Where do families park when someone has a birthday party or barbecue. We’ve allowed up to 10 common walls. What did the police and fire chief say about the development? Will they have fire safety sprinklers? Noise abatement? This will not be senior housing, because they usually do not mix with younger families. No bedrooms on the main. Elevators would add another $50k? Owner vs rentals. These look like apartments. Even if sold as owner occupied, they are really designed like apartments. Might initially start as original owner, but 2nd occupant will usually end up as a rental. May end up being transient housing, because people are not permanently attached to housing. We don’t want transient housing in Highland. Public should always have the opportunity to provide input. The City Council could not ask any questions about this project because it was approved through the Planning Commission. Highland is what it is because we have worked long and hard to create and preserve this unique environment.
-Deanna Holland. Agrees about Toscana. Pleased with moratorium. Shocked the developer cannot put 2 story town houses but can build 4-story apartments. Thinks the code needs to be updated. Feels betrayed that this decision was made without public knowledge.
-Braithwaite: Moratorium would not impact current project (Toscana), would only affect projects moving forward. Doesn’t want Planning Commission to have authority to authorize projects of this size.
-Schramm: Agrees with Braithwaite. Elected officials should have to respond to public comments. Considers Town Center ordinance to be faulty.
-Smith: Agrees we need a moratorium. Need more public input and transparency. We may need a few higher density areas to meet some people’s needs.
-Mendenhall: Don’t need a moratorium. Town Center would bring feet on the ground and bring vitality to the area. We seem to change the ordinance or declare a moratorium every time we don’t like something. Why would investors want to come to Highland. Flex-use defined by height, parking, access. Do we declare moratorium and risk impeding this development? If we need to change the way things are done, change the ordinance don’t declare a moratorium. Market-driven economy. We have done less than a stellar job creating a market where investors would want to involve themselves.
-Schramm: If we do not abide by our own ordinances we need to throw them out. All large projects have always had to come before the City Council. We voted to remove a project that needed to come in 7.8/acre, they voted the height can be 50 feet tall; and yet ordinance says wall 50, roof can add to be total of 70 feet tall. People come to this community for a reason. We need to do a survey to see what the citizens want. Need a 6-month moratorium to survey citizens to see what they want to review ordinance to change.
- Butler: Agrees that Highland is anti-business. Highland leaders need to exhibit better attitude toward welcoming business. We should only have a 30-day moratorium and get this ordinance revised quickly – let’s not drag it out.
-Mendenhall: Believes ordinance drafted correctly that Planning Commission has authority to approve if projects meet certain requirements. The Town Center will sit in its current state for sometime if we don’t do this right.
-Braithwaite: Moratorium important to review if the ordinance is what we want.
Approved.
Other Public Input:
-Jay Bischoff, represents citizens of Beacon Hill. Wants to make sure some campaign issues do not get lost. A huge amount of impact fees were collected in Beacon Hills to build a park. City met with citizens and decided there was an obligation to build the park, and yes indeed, fees had been collected. They decided they needed to spend money by August or return fees to developers. Beacon Hill citizens want the City to set a date to meet with the citizens within the next 30 days and set a target on when that park will be built. 2nd issue: 6000 W 1800 N? (Westfield Rd), East side of the road is a very busy business run out of the home. Jay does not feel it is safe. Kids running out with groceries almost hit by cars numerous times. Only one person in City has to sign approval for a home run business. City responded (Mendenhall) that if a business grows to a size that it endangers neighbors the City can review and can revoke license if needed. He will ask the City to review the situation.
-Dan Baxter, Highland 32 years, right across the street from fire station. Put the burn back on the agenda. He also agrees with Jess Adamson, and would also like to add that he sees in 10 years an increased crime rate.
I left at 10:30pm and did not hear the discussion on the following items. I will follow-up with the City to see if these were approved:
9. ACTION ITEMS
9.1 Consider authorizing the Mayor to negotiate a contract with Consultant Craig Peterson - Mayor Ritchie - (10 min.)
9.2 Consider the Appeal for the Bradshaw Open Space Agreement for improvements in the View Pointe Subdivision at 4065 West Park Circle - Lonnie Crowell - (10 min.)
9.3 Consider approval of the 9600 North Subdivision Final Plat, a 3 lot subdivision located at 6900 West 9600 North - Lonnie Crowell - (10 min.)
9.4 Consider approval of a Conditional Use Permit for an LDS Church Building to be located at approximately 9681 North 6900 West - Lonnie Crowell - (10 min.)
9.5 Consider approval of the Miller Acres B Final Plat, a one lot subdivision located at 4565 North 11150 North - Lonnie Crowell - (10 min.)
5. CONSENT CALENDAR
5.1 Consent of Planning Commissioners as Appointed - Mayor Ritchie, approved
New Planning Commissioners introduced:
- Tim Irwin (Beacon Hills, has lived here 2 years and plans to stay permanently, retired from travel business, wants to make sure Highland remains a great place to live)
- Jay Roundy (4 years on Tree Commission, created designs for several of the new parks, was on planning commission in another city, chairman of the board of variance, licensed land planner, architect, environmental engineering doctorate, environmental law doctorate, has worked with both federal and state organizations.
- Kelly Sobotka, has been on planning commission for the past 2 years: 1 year as an alternate, 1 year as a planner. Has lived in Highland 35 years, has a young family, coaches baseball, Better Business Bureau board of directors for Utah, Boy Scouts of America Nat’l Parks Council, part owner of a business in Salt Lake, 5 kids
- Steve Rock (not present)
-Abe Day (not present)
-Chris Kemp: has been a resident for 3 years, works in construction and real estate, BYU graduate in business and construction mgt, has served on planning commission for other cities
Tony Pexton, who had been serving on Planning Commission, was recognized for exemplary service.
5.2 Consent of Library Board Members as Appointed - Mayor Ritchie, approved
5.3 Consent to a Resolution appointing Lonnie Crowell as Highland City’s representative on the Utah Valley Dispatch Special Service District - Mayor Ritchie
Kathryn Schramm thinks Lonnie has his hands full and it would be beneficial to have another citizen serve in this capacity. (Lonnie expressed agreement) Motion to post-pone this decision to Feb 16 approved until another citizen can be identified.
5.4 Consider a 6 month extension for the Waterford Estates Final Plat, a 7 lot subdivision located at 5830 West 11750 North - Lonnie Crowell -approved
6. PRESENTATIONS/PUBLIC INPUT/PUBLIC HEARINGS
6.1 Presentation by Consultant Craig Peterson for Engineering and Government Affair issues vital to Highland City
Craig Peterson, Engineering and Gov Affair consultant to City and Highland City resident, report on items:
Background: resident since 1983, engineering degree, career working on infrastructure, VP of architecture and engineering firm, worked for large civil engineering and design firm, retired and became contract lobbyist, worked with UT legislature for 23 years, majority leader in UT Senate, does other representation as well. (For reference, Highland city contract Oct 2007 to June 2008) Craig’s report:
- Has been instrumental in obtaining/maintaining funding for key Highland projects.
- Maintaining form of government, cooperative agreement with Alpine justice of peace and court system
- Maintaining funding for SR-92.
- 9400 N project, East/West Corridor easements (8-10 months) by State Developmental Ctr, difficulty in determining who had the authority to approve and fund. Lisa Michelle Church Family Services owns decision, so he will be working with her.
- Murdock connector right of way. Highland is member of Irma. Under legal action by retirees up to $1.8M.
Council comments:
- Scott Smith questions if we continue to need a lobbyist when building permit volume has decreased. Perhaps staff could do this work.
- Mendenhall says he feels this role in vital because Peterson has connections and the know-how to move these difficult issues forward. Not the strength of City staff.
- Kathryn Schramm says if we do decide to renew contract, he gets paid quarterly, up through Sept 2009. He is not receiving his customary billing rate, but this is his community, so is happy to continue working with city at this rate.
6.2 Public Input for the Provo Reservoir Canal Rights-of-Way Greenway Interlocal Agreement
This is regarding the Murdock Canal piping project, and the trail they want to build. Comments from the public:
-Jess Adamson has been involved in this project since 1995, Highland’s backbone trail, goes along Murdock Canal, connects to Provo trail, connects to Point of the Mountain, up through Parley’s Canyon. We have negotiated in good faith for many years to have this trail and now a government grant will cover the cost of this trail. Now is not the time to back down. We have worked for years planning for this trail.
-Dan Burkman, Alpine resident, disagrees with putting in the trail. Prefers spending on potholes on SR-92. Lives here because of beauty, does not want to look out back window and see marathon runners on a trail. He is a Principal in SLC. He doesn’t want a foot-highway in his backyard.
-Another resident (I didn’t catch his name), doesn’t want trail. Thinks he will need a security fence to keep people out of his backyard.
-Diana Tallmon backyard on Canal – doesn’t want trail. Concerned about cost. Doesn’t like the idea of a connector trail from Provo to SLC, doesn’t want people traveling through the community.
-Another resident. Doesn’t want the city to spend money on a trail. Every city is short on money – no one should be spending money right now. (Mayor clarified that city will not need to cover cost of trail – grant is covering cost)
-Dean Carroll. Trail would be right behind his house. He wants it finished up. This is what Highland is about, our great trail system
-Scott, Canterbury. He is from Boise where he enjoyed a great trail system. Thinks it would solve a problem of giving children and teens something to do in community.
-Pheasant Hollow. During Winter can’t walk on sidewalks in city because sidewalks not cleared. If we put in trail, we need to be able to clear snow and maintain it. We need to be able to police and maintain trail.
-Christy Bally. Murdock Canal is behind her house. She is in favor of trails. It will be a mess at first during construction, but thinks it will turn out very nice.
-Scott Smith concerned that Highland newsletter not clear about trail, most citizens don’t know what Provo Greenway is, would know it by Murdock Canal trail.
-Tom Butler asked Kip Botkin Police Chief his opinion about trail: Doesn’t expect a severe adverse impact on crime. Familiar with Orem and Provo trails, they have not had huge crime impact from trail. Does expect police will need to patrol. Trail will open up community and will actually get more eyes out there. Had an officer assigned for about 7 weeks to existing trails, and during that entire time, only 2-3 citations, most of the time for a dog off a leash; nothing major. It will have an impact on resources, but not a huge impact.
-Steve Caine from Provo River Water Users was present at meeting to answer questions:
-Smith: Likes trails, not opposed to piping project of Canal. Concern, trail is a major change to this environment. Thinks we should present more information to community and enlist more feedback. Need to address what happens when trail comes to SR-92 (safety issue). We are responsible for 65% of maintenance.
-Engineer, PW Richard Neilson addressing questions from Smith: funding from the government will address busy intersections. Trail will go under street for busy roads. As long as you can see through tunnel as you approach it (you can see daylight on the other end), then you generally do not have security and safety issues. Is trail elevated? Grading will be the same or slightly lower than current elevation. Why is it called a greenway when it is an asphalt trail? What responsibility does city have for landscaping? County responsible for paved surface. City opportunity to landscape as desired. (Although can’t have deep rooted items-trees). Will the trail be fenced from adjourning neighborhoods? Same as it is today, fairly open design. Will it meet ADA requirements? Yes. 1:14 slope. What is annual maintenance for city? $8400 is estimated (snow removal, signage, etc.) Any improvements need to go through County and Provo Water Users? Yes, but County is informal process; and Provo River Water Users anticipate a broad usage of trail so should not be a barrier. Do we need to decide tonight or can we post-pone after further citizen discussions? Late Feb/early March would be best to finalize UDOT funding and contract for Provo River Water project done and ready by October; it would be best for the trail decision completed at the same time for economy of scale on funding/resources working on project.
- Mendenhall: Should call this Legacy trail. We should preserve this project for our children. Provo has not had security issues on their trail (he read statistics from police stats). 343 incidents in Provo canyon only 1 a genuine trail incident. Hobble Creek – 89 incidents, 0 in trail. There should be limited concern for security on these trails. There may be some loss of privacy. This is something we need to do. Cost of trail is incidental. We are able at no cost to Highland to put this trail in place. Our long term commitment is for maintenance of trail. We need to be good citizens. There is no negative long-term impact. We are getting a wonderful addition to Highland for a very low cost.
-Butler addressing questions to Neilson/Caine: Is it correct that when the canal is piped, that the roads will be returned to current condition. Yes. One reason to do this is to eliminate sea-pitch. What will happen to Highland irrigation users? Our contribution to the ground-water is pretty negligible, so shouldn’t be impacted. Regarding the money Highland would pay to move/re-establish utilities ($410k) Is this a hard figure, and what if we don’t enter into this agreement? $410k an early estimate; we believe the number will be reduced significantly now that we have more detailed information (he doesn’t know exact number now). Highland has a lot of water crossings which come into contact with utilities. This is a situation that already exists. Provo River Water usage covers 25% of this cost, and rest of cost spread out over time. This is an already existing legal obligation regardless of the Trail decision. Butler: Concern from South Salt Lake PD regarding trail. Has gradually lost public appeal and crime rates have increased. Lewdness, illegal alcohol consumption by minors, graffiti. Constantly works trailway; about 20 hrs/week. 41 arrests 2009. Realizes demographics are significantly different from Highland. Recommends security be discussed up-front. Captain Jack Ruth. This is a want not a need. Concerned about 50-year commitment. Governments are in fiscal trouble because they accepted so many gov grants that had strings attached. This agreement has strings attached. We have to help with maintenance if something goes wrong on trail. We give up our liberty if we agree to this. He doesn’t think being a good citizen is to bite off on every project that comes along.
-Braithwaite: We cannot compare the South SLC trail to the Provo and Utah County trails; they are very different. We have a completely open area. There are no bushes and trees up against this trail. He has run hundreds of miles on the SLC trails, and thousands of miles on the Utah County trails. The SLC trails do have security concerns; the Utah County trails are very different and do not have a security concern. They are open and not surrounded by brush and foliage. This is a great trail and has been part of the plan for decades. It is no different than the other trails we have. He heavily uses our trails and generally sees people in our area using the trails; our friends and neighbors walking, running, biking. This is a wide open area. We will not see criminals traveling to our area to walk on our trails. It will be us using the trails. We receive money from the federal government all the time. Why? Because we pay money to the government all the time. We pay gasoline taxes, and we receive funding back from the government for appropriate projects. We are receiving funding for a great project which we have been planning for, for decades. This trail is in our master plan. We want this trail. We want to see people outside using these trails. I’m not concerned about a long-term commitment to maintain the trail. We have much longer commitments to maintain our roads and buildings. Maintaining the trail is not a concern.
-Schramm: Need to hold a public meeting regarding this. People around here don’t realize this is the “Murdock Trail” project.
-Smith: We have a lot of poorly planned projects already in the city. We have compelling arguments to close the canal, but we need more citizen input regarding the trail.
-Mendenhall: This trail has been discussed for a long-time. Residents have a responsibility to get informed on these decisions. Let’s not delay this decision. The timeline is at risk for getting this through UDOT. There is no reason to delay this.
It was voted to continue this item for another 30-days to get more public input via a public meeting with better language to make it clear this is regarding the Murdock trail.
7. ORDINANCES
7.1 Consider an Ordinance placing a Moratorium on the Town Center Overlay Zone - Lonnie Crowell - (10 min.)
-Jess Adamson, expressed concerns about the city. (I cannot type fast enough to capture all the information Jess provided…) Town Center concerns. He has been involved in government since 1993. Toscana proposal and approval is concerning. Much too high of a density for Highland: less than 7.2 acres, 162 units, 6 people/unit = 22.5 units/acre. No one in North Utah County has this type of density. Number of parking spaces not adequate;, needing to use parking spaces outside of the 7.2 acres. Hate to see the town center become a parking lot. We don’t have floor plans – we don’t know what to expect. Approved in planning commission without being approved through council. Where is the green space? How much asphalt in comparison to grass? What about frontages? Where do families park when someone has a birthday party or barbecue. We’ve allowed up to 10 common walls. What did the police and fire chief say about the development? Will they have fire safety sprinklers? Noise abatement? This will not be senior housing, because they usually do not mix with younger families. No bedrooms on the main. Elevators would add another $50k? Owner vs rentals. These look like apartments. Even if sold as owner occupied, they are really designed like apartments. Might initially start as original owner, but 2nd occupant will usually end up as a rental. May end up being transient housing, because people are not permanently attached to housing. We don’t want transient housing in Highland. Public should always have the opportunity to provide input. The City Council could not ask any questions about this project because it was approved through the Planning Commission. Highland is what it is because we have worked long and hard to create and preserve this unique environment.
-Deanna Holland. Agrees about Toscana. Pleased with moratorium. Shocked the developer cannot put 2 story town houses but can build 4-story apartments. Thinks the code needs to be updated. Feels betrayed that this decision was made without public knowledge.
-Braithwaite: Moratorium would not impact current project (Toscana), would only affect projects moving forward. Doesn’t want Planning Commission to have authority to authorize projects of this size.
-Schramm: Agrees with Braithwaite. Elected officials should have to respond to public comments. Considers Town Center ordinance to be faulty.
-Smith: Agrees we need a moratorium. Need more public input and transparency. We may need a few higher density areas to meet some people’s needs.
-Mendenhall: Don’t need a moratorium. Town Center would bring feet on the ground and bring vitality to the area. We seem to change the ordinance or declare a moratorium every time we don’t like something. Why would investors want to come to Highland. Flex-use defined by height, parking, access. Do we declare moratorium and risk impeding this development? If we need to change the way things are done, change the ordinance don’t declare a moratorium. Market-driven economy. We have done less than a stellar job creating a market where investors would want to involve themselves.
-Schramm: If we do not abide by our own ordinances we need to throw them out. All large projects have always had to come before the City Council. We voted to remove a project that needed to come in 7.8/acre, they voted the height can be 50 feet tall; and yet ordinance says wall 50, roof can add to be total of 70 feet tall. People come to this community for a reason. We need to do a survey to see what the citizens want. Need a 6-month moratorium to survey citizens to see what they want to review ordinance to change.
- Butler: Agrees that Highland is anti-business. Highland leaders need to exhibit better attitude toward welcoming business. We should only have a 30-day moratorium and get this ordinance revised quickly – let’s not drag it out.
-Mendenhall: Believes ordinance drafted correctly that Planning Commission has authority to approve if projects meet certain requirements. The Town Center will sit in its current state for sometime if we don’t do this right.
-Braithwaite: Moratorium important to review if the ordinance is what we want.
Approved.
Other Public Input:
-Jay Bischoff, represents citizens of Beacon Hill. Wants to make sure some campaign issues do not get lost. A huge amount of impact fees were collected in Beacon Hills to build a park. City met with citizens and decided there was an obligation to build the park, and yes indeed, fees had been collected. They decided they needed to spend money by August or return fees to developers. Beacon Hill citizens want the City to set a date to meet with the citizens within the next 30 days and set a target on when that park will be built. 2nd issue: 6000 W 1800 N? (Westfield Rd), East side of the road is a very busy business run out of the home. Jay does not feel it is safe. Kids running out with groceries almost hit by cars numerous times. Only one person in City has to sign approval for a home run business. City responded (Mendenhall) that if a business grows to a size that it endangers neighbors the City can review and can revoke license if needed. He will ask the City to review the situation.
-Dan Baxter, Highland 32 years, right across the street from fire station. Put the burn back on the agenda. He also agrees with Jess Adamson, and would also like to add that he sees in 10 years an increased crime rate.
I left at 10:30pm and did not hear the discussion on the following items. I will follow-up with the City to see if these were approved:
9. ACTION ITEMS
9.1 Consider authorizing the Mayor to negotiate a contract with Consultant Craig Peterson - Mayor Ritchie - (10 min.)
9.2 Consider the Appeal for the Bradshaw Open Space Agreement for improvements in the View Pointe Subdivision at 4065 West Park Circle - Lonnie Crowell - (10 min.)
9.3 Consider approval of the 9600 North Subdivision Final Plat, a 3 lot subdivision located at 6900 West 9600 North - Lonnie Crowell - (10 min.)
9.4 Consider approval of a Conditional Use Permit for an LDS Church Building to be located at approximately 9681 North 6900 West - Lonnie Crowell - (10 min.)
9.5 Consider approval of the Miller Acres B Final Plat, a one lot subdivision located at 4565 North 11150 North - Lonnie Crowell - (10 min.)
Monday, January 25, 2010
City Council Jan. 19, 2010
Highland City Council minutes 1/19/2010
Prayer: Tom Butler
Pledge: Larry Mendenhall
Special Presentation to Brian Brunson from Mayor Richie of a Clock and Watch from Highland City in recognition of his service to Highland
Public Appearances:
• Jill Calhoon: Highland needs a workable Residential Facility Ordinance. The current one is detrimental to residents and facilities. She discussed Orem City's ordinance and distributed a copy to the entire council. Reportedly, Steve Earl (associated with Makin Homes) reportedly helped draft it. She also stated that Highland City has had 2 years to put an ordinance in place. She also stated that putting an ordinance in soon would not interfere with addendums being added to it later.
• Frank Cameron: Stated that Substance abuse is a recognized disability and quoted the guideline. He also quoted/stated the following:
• "Not all requests are reasonable"
• 10-9-91-20: City must adopt an ordinance for disabled individuals (according to UT and Federal Fair housing acts)
• It may not be appropriate to place a facility if there is a "fundamental change in the character of the neighborhood".
• He quoted several issues from the recent appeal that was found in favor of HOPE.
• Alpine Treatment Center (ATC): will most likely request an appeal to the District court. Mr. Cameron requested a denial of a Provisional use permit.
• Wendy Hart: Math.....up to 37 Treatment Facilities allowed in Highland under current ordinance, more than 2 per square mile.
• Carin Hadley: quoted/discussed the following:
• R501-19-1: The Office of Licensing shall license residential treatment programs ......
• Lisa-Michele Church: Executive Director of Human Services (and Office of Licensing). This portion of her bio was read.. "She is married to David L Church, Attorney at law..". Mr. Church has been advising Highland City on this issue....which appears to be a direct conflict of interest. Even though he has resigned, he is still advising Highland City in the interim until a new Attorney is found.
• R501-19-3: Residential treatment program means a 24-hour group living environment for 4 or more individuals unrelated to the owner or provider in accordance with Subsection 62A-2-101(15).
• Highland's density if 4.53, which is in line with the definition of this type of facility. ATS states that they can operate financially and from a treatment perspective without 6-8 residents. "It is not incumbent upon the city of highland to make a change for one business and not for all" because they may have issues of profitability.
• These facilities are licensed and are provided oversight by the Office of Licensing under the department of Human Services. Therefore, if a complaint about a resident were called into the police department, they would address it at the time of the complaint. The police department does not answer to the Office of Licensing. Therefore, the Office of Licensing would be unaware of complaints and would not come and investigate. The average number of visits to a treatment facility such as this by the Office of Licensing in a year is one.
Tuscana at Highland:
• Lonnie Cromwell from the Planning Commission shared how the Master plan was developed and in particular the mixed use section. Reportedly public notice was given by mail, city website, and newspaper. Not many residents attended the planning meeting that was discussing this development. The unit is 36 feet high and has ridge spans of 36 feet. Each unit has a 2 car garage with front doors that face the interior landscaping.
• Mayor Richie stated that the purpose for them to appear was for the city council and residents to be educated and learn more about the development.
• The Gifford’s, the developers, gave a description of their plan. Initially there were planning to put in over 200 apartments, but after talking with members of the planning commission and several residents, changed to townhomes. They initially wasted to build 2 story units, but Highland city code requires 3 stories. There will be between 160-162 units with over 400 parking spaces (2 in each garage, 14 on the premises, and the rest being street parking). A swimming pool, club house, etc will also be available for the development only.
• Floor plans include 2.5 bathrooms, 2 car garages, 2-3 bedrooms. Pricing is between $174,000.00 to %205-210,000.00. The development would be built in phases. Each 3 bedroom can have the option of an elevator.
• Target population: Young Families and Retired individuals.
• Questions from City Council members:
• Would retired individuals really purchase a 3 story unit?
• Is there really 400 parking places (later discovered that many were counted as on-street parking....)
• Won't parking on the street infringe upon business parking. The Giffords agreed that it would.
• City Center/Town Center Road is slated for businesses. Your plan states that units can be Retro-fitted to be a business....how? Giffords stated that the 1st floor of the units can be retrofitted with residential living upstairs.
• Where will you put snow after storms? HOA will have to determine
• Where would you put trash cans? Inside of garages
• Does the ordinance require an HOA or not: It requires an HOA because of the common areas
• The CCNR require the HOA to maintain landscaping.
• Traffic on Udot SR92 is highly unlikely to have Traffic light, what does your traffic study show? Giffords engineer gave very specific information about the number of "trips" ad different times of the day. Their calculations state that it would not make an impact on the current flow and will not warrant a light. But, in saying this, the engineer stated that individuals could take an alternative route as well. Mr. Braithwaite stated "People won't take an alternate route...they will take the habitual route.
• Anything located in the flex zone can be either business or residential
• Tom Butler raised a concern that these will turn into rentals or apartments...and after 10-15 years will look like them.: Giffords stated that the HOA will have to manage this.
• Fannie Mae and FHA don't allow for more than 51% owner-occupancy. How are you going to ensure this is complied with: HOA has to handle it. Will try to put this into the CCNR.
• Will there be a Completion Bond so that it does not sit unfinished if running out of funds? Giffords stated that they will pay the Land Seller the total cost and will build the units in phases.
• Question to the Planning commission: Where does the $800,000.00 in extraction feeds go. Lonnie: Paid to the city and distributed to those who have put in the improvement....which includes the city. Tom Butler asked for a specific accounting of this money.
• Tom Butler stated that Mayor Franson signed an Interlocal agreement with the county. Do you have involvement with the county (as it promotes low income housing) with the Community block grant? Giffords: We have had no conversation or connection with the county.
• Will the buildings have rock or just stucco: Giffords: "will be considerable rock and different looks at different elevations".
• How many irrigation shares do they need? Lonnie: 3 Acrefeet/Acre. They can only get them where they record a subdivision.
• What other subdivision have you done: some in UT, MD, Pleasant Grove, Provo, South Jordan, and Eagle Mountain. Suggested that people look at the development on State and 8200 South in Sandy to get an idea of what this development will look like (not the Giffords development).
• Larry Mendenhall stated that it will increase the vitality of Town center and become a walking community for those residents.
• Mayor Richie ended the discussion stating that they were awaiting the outcome of the appeal and may hold a special session of the City Council to address this issue.
Alignment of City boundaries: Gina stated that AF has requested an alignment of Murdock Connector. The Public Hearing was for this night. AF City has a timeline of wanting it done by March 2nd.
• Open Microphone:
• Janet Wadsowrth of Pheasant Hollow: Didn't Highland City (HC) already adopt a resolution? Gina: City Council (CC) adopted an intent to adopt. Wadsowrth: Can you have a hearing without a resolution? Gina: residents are given 60 days for a protest, then a hearing, and then the resolution is adopted. Wadsworth: Murdock connecter needs to be a fixed asset before we adjust the boundaries.
• We are trading 14.7 acres for .7 acres, and no money will be exchanged.
• HC does not own the property in the Golf Course
• Wadsworth recommending waiting for the road to be put in before changing the boundaries.
• Elizabeth McFarlane: The Planning Commission voted against the “pump station” for AF. This alignment allows AF to put in that pump station and only partially bury it.
• Mr. Hansen: AF is looking for a place for filtration. They define “below ground” as building up the ground around it. If this alignment allows for the above ground station, we need to deny the request for the alignment.
• Scott Smith: Murdock Connector is a regional road…why can’t it be built in AF and not Highland. How exactly is this that we are giving the land to them.
• Matt Ship (Engineer): The land is located at the bottom of the hill by the sewer station (near hole 4 or 5 of the golf course) with the irrigation pond to the south.
• Smith: If we wanted to put a stop to the filtration station, wouldn’t we have to appeal to AF to stop this use on the land we currently own if we give it to them.
• Shipp: Yes.
• Smith: The Pump station would be on our land but would be given to AF…why would we do that?
• Shipp: We can get a provisional agreement to not allow it with the land exchange.
• It appears that this road would be turned back to the state after the County MAG builds it.
• Butler: is 15.7 acres in the Golf Course? Shipp “yes”.
• What does Highland get for it. We get to control the “look” of the road.
• A portion of this I guess is school section and is prime land. The question was raised, what if AF decides to sell it, where does the money go. The answer is that it would go back to the state.
• In regard to this area, the current Sewer Station may have to be moved.
• How much would it cost to relocate it (20 feet south or 100 fee north)? Shipp $350,000.00
• Who is going to pay for building the road County MAG.
• Didn’t HC already pay $118,000.00 to design the road? Shipp: Yes.
• What other cities are paying into it? Shipp: Highland and MAG.
• Will we get reimbursement from MAG funding? Schram stated $118,000.00 for the second phase was approved Shipp stated that city council would have to approve phase 3 which would cost an additional $63,000.00.
Changing Development Code for Signs in HC:
• Lonnie: Temporary sign ordinance and its legality. It is being reviewed by the planning commission. Residents may be able to place one temporary sign on their own property. Questions were raised about how big the sign could be, no current restrictions…and has been reviewed by 2 attorneys.
• Commercial: reportedly they can have a sign 30 days at ~365 feet. Hard to see. Reportedly Commercial entities have rejected some suggestions that have been offered. The recommendations was for new council members to come up to speed on the history of this issue. Council to have a work session.
• Religious signage: cannot stop a resident from putting up a sign, despite the size, on their property regarding religion. It is against the 1st amendment.
• Council will have a work session within 60 days.
Miller Acre final Platt Subdivision: located at 456 W 11200 N.
• Essentially this couple wants to subdivide one part of their land into 3 plots of land. The whole issue stems from how much they will have to pay for the “1/2 road” that they will be responsible for. It was apparent that the city council was trying to find a way to assist this elderly couple but still keep within the limits of the regulations. There was a recommendation of a delay agreement, but Mr. Shipp pointed out that these often get lost at the county building. Mr. Butler suggested a lean with a subordinating agreement be developed which reportedly would not put an undue burden on Mr. and Mrs. Miller. The council choose to get a legal opinion before proceeding.
Surplus property: This was a Public Hearing regarding how to dispose of surplus properties (not desks etc, but parcels of land) that Highland City owns. There were differing opinions on how this should be done which ranged from having the Mayor or City Administrator oversee and handle it alone to putting a monetary value limit that could not be handled by the City Administrator. Mendenhall suggested making a Matrix of the properties to sell. In the end, the city staff are to get samples of other cities regulations and try to come up with a suggested ordinance.
Revocations of Business licenses: Need to have a future public hearing on business that no longer have valid licenses that may be still in business.
Ratification of minutes from 12/1/09 and 1/5/10: Recommended changes were suggested by Mayor Richie and Schramn. Voted to ratify and they were.
Planning Commission: 19 people were interviewed to serve on the Planning commission. The Mayor has asked the individuals who will not be serving on the Planning Commission to serve on other committees such as open space, parks, etc.
City Administrator position: Will post ASAP.
Public Service: increase in vehicle burglaries between Thanksgiving and Christmas.
• Fire Department: In July “critical care transports” will end, which is a large source of income for this department. Funding must be addressed ASAP.
Financial Report was moved to next meeting.
Agreement with Washington Lobbyist was terminated: However, a second lobbyist ($10,000.00/year) is retained to help with the Murdock Connector for now. Will invite him to come and explain what he does for the money at a future meeting.
Lake Commission: HC was the only land locked city that was a part of the Commission. It is $2,900.00 per year. The decision has to be made by next week to be a voting member.
Don Bloom will continue in his role (?)
Public Comments: It was noted that besides the beginning of the meetings, no public comments were ever called for. Council will ask an Attorney if there is any issue about having public comments throughout the meeting.
Vacation policy: A recommendation to start a “Use it or lose it” policy for vacation for city employees was recommended.
Moratorium: It was recommended that a moratorium be placed on the “flex use” property to stop it from just being townhouses, condo’s and apartment. Re-define to only have a percentage for that purpose, a percentage for business etc.
Renovation of old City Hall: Will review at a future meeting.
Burned house on 6800 West: family was supposed to dispose of it before now. City may get bids to demolish as it is a safety hazard.
Prayer: Tom Butler
Pledge: Larry Mendenhall
Special Presentation to Brian Brunson from Mayor Richie of a Clock and Watch from Highland City in recognition of his service to Highland
Public Appearances:
• Jill Calhoon: Highland needs a workable Residential Facility Ordinance. The current one is detrimental to residents and facilities. She discussed Orem City's ordinance and distributed a copy to the entire council. Reportedly, Steve Earl (associated with Makin Homes) reportedly helped draft it. She also stated that Highland City has had 2 years to put an ordinance in place. She also stated that putting an ordinance in soon would not interfere with addendums being added to it later.
• Frank Cameron: Stated that Substance abuse is a recognized disability and quoted the guideline. He also quoted/stated the following:
• "Not all requests are reasonable"
• 10-9-91-20: City must adopt an ordinance for disabled individuals (according to UT and Federal Fair housing acts)
• It may not be appropriate to place a facility if there is a "fundamental change in the character of the neighborhood".
• He quoted several issues from the recent appeal that was found in favor of HOPE.
• Alpine Treatment Center (ATC): will most likely request an appeal to the District court. Mr. Cameron requested a denial of a Provisional use permit.
• Wendy Hart: Math.....up to 37 Treatment Facilities allowed in Highland under current ordinance, more than 2 per square mile.
• Carin Hadley: quoted/discussed the following:
• R501-19-1: The Office of Licensing shall license residential treatment programs ......
• Lisa-Michele Church: Executive Director of Human Services (and Office of Licensing). This portion of her bio was read.. "She is married to David L Church, Attorney at law..". Mr. Church has been advising Highland City on this issue....which appears to be a direct conflict of interest. Even though he has resigned, he is still advising Highland City in the interim until a new Attorney is found.
• R501-19-3: Residential treatment program means a 24-hour group living environment for 4 or more individuals unrelated to the owner or provider in accordance with Subsection 62A-2-101(15).
• Highland's density if 4.53, which is in line with the definition of this type of facility. ATS states that they can operate financially and from a treatment perspective without 6-8 residents. "It is not incumbent upon the city of highland to make a change for one business and not for all" because they may have issues of profitability.
• These facilities are licensed and are provided oversight by the Office of Licensing under the department of Human Services. Therefore, if a complaint about a resident were called into the police department, they would address it at the time of the complaint. The police department does not answer to the Office of Licensing. Therefore, the Office of Licensing would be unaware of complaints and would not come and investigate. The average number of visits to a treatment facility such as this by the Office of Licensing in a year is one.
Tuscana at Highland:
• Lonnie Cromwell from the Planning Commission shared how the Master plan was developed and in particular the mixed use section. Reportedly public notice was given by mail, city website, and newspaper. Not many residents attended the planning meeting that was discussing this development. The unit is 36 feet high and has ridge spans of 36 feet. Each unit has a 2 car garage with front doors that face the interior landscaping.
• Mayor Richie stated that the purpose for them to appear was for the city council and residents to be educated and learn more about the development.
• The Gifford’s, the developers, gave a description of their plan. Initially there were planning to put in over 200 apartments, but after talking with members of the planning commission and several residents, changed to townhomes. They initially wasted to build 2 story units, but Highland city code requires 3 stories. There will be between 160-162 units with over 400 parking spaces (2 in each garage, 14 on the premises, and the rest being street parking). A swimming pool, club house, etc will also be available for the development only.
• Floor plans include 2.5 bathrooms, 2 car garages, 2-3 bedrooms. Pricing is between $174,000.00 to %205-210,000.00. The development would be built in phases. Each 3 bedroom can have the option of an elevator.
• Target population: Young Families and Retired individuals.
• Questions from City Council members:
• Would retired individuals really purchase a 3 story unit?
• Is there really 400 parking places (later discovered that many were counted as on-street parking....)
• Won't parking on the street infringe upon business parking. The Giffords agreed that it would.
• City Center/Town Center Road is slated for businesses. Your plan states that units can be Retro-fitted to be a business....how? Giffords stated that the 1st floor of the units can be retrofitted with residential living upstairs.
• Where will you put snow after storms? HOA will have to determine
• Where would you put trash cans? Inside of garages
• Does the ordinance require an HOA or not: It requires an HOA because of the common areas
• The CCNR require the HOA to maintain landscaping.
• Traffic on Udot SR92 is highly unlikely to have Traffic light, what does your traffic study show? Giffords engineer gave very specific information about the number of "trips" ad different times of the day. Their calculations state that it would not make an impact on the current flow and will not warrant a light. But, in saying this, the engineer stated that individuals could take an alternative route as well. Mr. Braithwaite stated "People won't take an alternate route...they will take the habitual route.
• Anything located in the flex zone can be either business or residential
• Tom Butler raised a concern that these will turn into rentals or apartments...and after 10-15 years will look like them.: Giffords stated that the HOA will have to manage this.
• Fannie Mae and FHA don't allow for more than 51% owner-occupancy. How are you going to ensure this is complied with: HOA has to handle it. Will try to put this into the CCNR.
• Will there be a Completion Bond so that it does not sit unfinished if running out of funds? Giffords stated that they will pay the Land Seller the total cost and will build the units in phases.
• Question to the Planning commission: Where does the $800,000.00 in extraction feeds go. Lonnie: Paid to the city and distributed to those who have put in the improvement....which includes the city. Tom Butler asked for a specific accounting of this money.
• Tom Butler stated that Mayor Franson signed an Interlocal agreement with the county. Do you have involvement with the county (as it promotes low income housing) with the Community block grant? Giffords: We have had no conversation or connection with the county.
• Will the buildings have rock or just stucco: Giffords: "will be considerable rock and different looks at different elevations".
• How many irrigation shares do they need? Lonnie: 3 Acrefeet/Acre. They can only get them where they record a subdivision.
• What other subdivision have you done: some in UT, MD, Pleasant Grove, Provo, South Jordan, and Eagle Mountain. Suggested that people look at the development on State and 8200 South in Sandy to get an idea of what this development will look like (not the Giffords development).
• Larry Mendenhall stated that it will increase the vitality of Town center and become a walking community for those residents.
• Mayor Richie ended the discussion stating that they were awaiting the outcome of the appeal and may hold a special session of the City Council to address this issue.
Alignment of City boundaries: Gina stated that AF has requested an alignment of Murdock Connector. The Public Hearing was for this night. AF City has a timeline of wanting it done by March 2nd.
• Open Microphone:
• Janet Wadsowrth of Pheasant Hollow: Didn't Highland City (HC) already adopt a resolution? Gina: City Council (CC) adopted an intent to adopt. Wadsowrth: Can you have a hearing without a resolution? Gina: residents are given 60 days for a protest, then a hearing, and then the resolution is adopted. Wadsworth: Murdock connecter needs to be a fixed asset before we adjust the boundaries.
• We are trading 14.7 acres for .7 acres, and no money will be exchanged.
• HC does not own the property in the Golf Course
• Wadsworth recommending waiting for the road to be put in before changing the boundaries.
• Elizabeth McFarlane: The Planning Commission voted against the “pump station” for AF. This alignment allows AF to put in that pump station and only partially bury it.
• Mr. Hansen: AF is looking for a place for filtration. They define “below ground” as building up the ground around it. If this alignment allows for the above ground station, we need to deny the request for the alignment.
• Scott Smith: Murdock Connector is a regional road…why can’t it be built in AF and not Highland. How exactly is this that we are giving the land to them.
• Matt Ship (Engineer): The land is located at the bottom of the hill by the sewer station (near hole 4 or 5 of the golf course) with the irrigation pond to the south.
• Smith: If we wanted to put a stop to the filtration station, wouldn’t we have to appeal to AF to stop this use on the land we currently own if we give it to them.
• Shipp: Yes.
• Smith: The Pump station would be on our land but would be given to AF…why would we do that?
• Shipp: We can get a provisional agreement to not allow it with the land exchange.
• It appears that this road would be turned back to the state after the County MAG builds it.
• Butler: is 15.7 acres in the Golf Course? Shipp “yes”.
• What does Highland get for it. We get to control the “look” of the road.
• A portion of this I guess is school section and is prime land. The question was raised, what if AF decides to sell it, where does the money go. The answer is that it would go back to the state.
• In regard to this area, the current Sewer Station may have to be moved.
• How much would it cost to relocate it (20 feet south or 100 fee north)? Shipp $350,000.00
• Who is going to pay for building the road County MAG.
• Didn’t HC already pay $118,000.00 to design the road? Shipp: Yes.
• What other cities are paying into it? Shipp: Highland and MAG.
• Will we get reimbursement from MAG funding? Schram stated $118,000.00 for the second phase was approved Shipp stated that city council would have to approve phase 3 which would cost an additional $63,000.00.
Changing Development Code for Signs in HC:
• Lonnie: Temporary sign ordinance and its legality. It is being reviewed by the planning commission. Residents may be able to place one temporary sign on their own property. Questions were raised about how big the sign could be, no current restrictions…and has been reviewed by 2 attorneys.
• Commercial: reportedly they can have a sign 30 days at ~365 feet. Hard to see. Reportedly Commercial entities have rejected some suggestions that have been offered. The recommendations was for new council members to come up to speed on the history of this issue. Council to have a work session.
• Religious signage: cannot stop a resident from putting up a sign, despite the size, on their property regarding religion. It is against the 1st amendment.
• Council will have a work session within 60 days.
Miller Acre final Platt Subdivision: located at 456 W 11200 N.
• Essentially this couple wants to subdivide one part of their land into 3 plots of land. The whole issue stems from how much they will have to pay for the “1/2 road” that they will be responsible for. It was apparent that the city council was trying to find a way to assist this elderly couple but still keep within the limits of the regulations. There was a recommendation of a delay agreement, but Mr. Shipp pointed out that these often get lost at the county building. Mr. Butler suggested a lean with a subordinating agreement be developed which reportedly would not put an undue burden on Mr. and Mrs. Miller. The council choose to get a legal opinion before proceeding.
Surplus property: This was a Public Hearing regarding how to dispose of surplus properties (not desks etc, but parcels of land) that Highland City owns. There were differing opinions on how this should be done which ranged from having the Mayor or City Administrator oversee and handle it alone to putting a monetary value limit that could not be handled by the City Administrator. Mendenhall suggested making a Matrix of the properties to sell. In the end, the city staff are to get samples of other cities regulations and try to come up with a suggested ordinance.
Revocations of Business licenses: Need to have a future public hearing on business that no longer have valid licenses that may be still in business.
Ratification of minutes from 12/1/09 and 1/5/10: Recommended changes were suggested by Mayor Richie and Schramn. Voted to ratify and they were.
Planning Commission: 19 people were interviewed to serve on the Planning commission. The Mayor has asked the individuals who will not be serving on the Planning Commission to serve on other committees such as open space, parks, etc.
City Administrator position: Will post ASAP.
Public Service: increase in vehicle burglaries between Thanksgiving and Christmas.
• Fire Department: In July “critical care transports” will end, which is a large source of income for this department. Funding must be addressed ASAP.
Financial Report was moved to next meeting.
Agreement with Washington Lobbyist was terminated: However, a second lobbyist ($10,000.00/year) is retained to help with the Murdock Connector for now. Will invite him to come and explain what he does for the money at a future meeting.
Lake Commission: HC was the only land locked city that was a part of the Commission. It is $2,900.00 per year. The decision has to be made by next week to be a voting member.
Don Bloom will continue in his role (?)
Public Comments: It was noted that besides the beginning of the meetings, no public comments were ever called for. Council will ask an Attorney if there is any issue about having public comments throughout the meeting.
Vacation policy: A recommendation to start a “Use it or lose it” policy for vacation for city employees was recommended.
Moratorium: It was recommended that a moratorium be placed on the “flex use” property to stop it from just being townhouses, condo’s and apartment. Re-define to only have a percentage for that purpose, a percentage for business etc.
Renovation of old City Hall: Will review at a future meeting.
Burned house on 6800 West: family was supposed to dispose of it before now. City may get bids to demolish as it is a safety hazard.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
City Council Meeting Jan. 5
I attended tonight's council meeting. I've heard that the most interested portion is usually the last 5 minutes. So, I stayed the entire time! In the last five minutes, Mayor Ritchie mentioned that City Attorney, David Church emailed him his resignation today. Attorney Church was not at the meeting tonight. The email said that he (Attorney Church) would "help with the transition"...but council members questioned whether they would be without legal council in their meetings(since he wasn't there tonight...no one seemed to have an answer to that).
Other agenda items:
* Swearing in of new officers
* Pledge and Prayer
* No one stood for any public appearances
* Mayor Richie mentioned a few changes to procedure. One I thought was significant was that future minutes will record council members names along with their comments.
* The city will appoint a new City Administrator by July 1st
* Next month there will be an appreciation presentation to former council members/mayor
* Change of scheduled City Council meetings for the year. Change the July 6th meeting to Wednesday July 7th; Change November 2nd meeting to Wednesday November 3rd
* Voted on resolution for City Treasurer and City Recorder to be a 2year term
* Council voted on Larry Mendenhall to be Mayor Pro-Tempore
* Council approved amendments to the Residential code dealing with accessory buildings per the planning commissions recommendations
* Council made final approval of Town Center Plat 2
* Instead of approving contract of Brian Brunson as the City's Real Estate consultant, the council moved to have the Mayor meet with staff and possibly Brian Brunson, Barry Edwards etc and bring to the next meeting a plan which would define the scope of what the city's real estate needs are. Specifically a plan to sell the two properties on 4800 West since 'time is of the essence".
* Council moved to terminate lobbyist Bill Simmons' contract as soon as legally possible since monies have been approved and set aside for the Timp Cave visitors center. (He was getting 60k year). If the project is further 'stalled' the council will look into securing his services once again.
* Discussion was made pointing out the city needed a Surplus property ordinance. Gina Peterson mentioned that David Church advised them to "go ahead"...but she feels that's not sufficient. Council members agreed, but no motion was given to make that an action item.
* Council members approved December 1st and December 15th City Council Meeting minutes.
* The Tuscana development is being appealed. That appeal meeting is Jan 14th; handled by the Appeal Authority. There is a neighborhood meeting this Saturday. Scott Smith mentioned he'd like to be there, so he could know of the residences' concerns etc. However, he's aware that since Brian Braithwaite and Katherine Schramm will be there, he is not suppose to go (since if there are more than two council members at the meeting, minutes will have to be taken etc). So, he asked that Braithwaite and Schramm email the rest of the council notes from the meeting. They both said they would.
* Meeting was adjourned about approx 9:35pm.
Other agenda items:
* Swearing in of new officers
* Pledge and Prayer
* No one stood for any public appearances
* Mayor Richie mentioned a few changes to procedure. One I thought was significant was that future minutes will record council members names along with their comments.
* The city will appoint a new City Administrator by July 1st
* Next month there will be an appreciation presentation to former council members/mayor
* Change of scheduled City Council meetings for the year. Change the July 6th meeting to Wednesday July 7th; Change November 2nd meeting to Wednesday November 3rd
* Voted on resolution for City Treasurer and City Recorder to be a 2year term
* Council voted on Larry Mendenhall to be Mayor Pro-Tempore
* Council approved amendments to the Residential code dealing with accessory buildings per the planning commissions recommendations
* Council made final approval of Town Center Plat 2
* Instead of approving contract of Brian Brunson as the City's Real Estate consultant, the council moved to have the Mayor meet with staff and possibly Brian Brunson, Barry Edwards etc and bring to the next meeting a plan which would define the scope of what the city's real estate needs are. Specifically a plan to sell the two properties on 4800 West since 'time is of the essence".
* Council moved to terminate lobbyist Bill Simmons' contract as soon as legally possible since monies have been approved and set aside for the Timp Cave visitors center. (He was getting 60k year). If the project is further 'stalled' the council will look into securing his services once again.
* Discussion was made pointing out the city needed a Surplus property ordinance. Gina Peterson mentioned that David Church advised them to "go ahead"...but she feels that's not sufficient. Council members agreed, but no motion was given to make that an action item.
* Council members approved December 1st and December 15th City Council Meeting minutes.
* The Tuscana development is being appealed. That appeal meeting is Jan 14th; handled by the Appeal Authority. There is a neighborhood meeting this Saturday. Scott Smith mentioned he'd like to be there, so he could know of the residences' concerns etc. However, he's aware that since Brian Braithwaite and Katherine Schramm will be there, he is not suppose to go (since if there are more than two council members at the meeting, minutes will have to be taken etc). So, he asked that Braithwaite and Schramm email the rest of the council notes from the meeting. They both said they would.
* Meeting was adjourned about approx 9:35pm.
City Council Meeting Dec. 1
They considered different ways to help with the "light pollution" that the Baxter home has been dealing with as they are located across the street from the fire station. They approved $11,000 for the Baxters to relandscape their front, adding a burm to block out the lights.
They talked about and approved the removal of the fire damaged home located at 10031 N 6800 W.
They carried the motion (5-1) for the mayor to join the NCUAA (North Utah County Aquifer Assoc.) and talked about capping the Murdock Canal.
They talked about the 3rd phase (getting a Professional Service Agreement) for the design of the Murdock Connector Road and they authorized the Mayor to sign the agreement.
They passed an ordinance to amend certain portions of the RP Zone for the purpose of allowing schools. Then they talked about issuing a Conditional Use Permit for the" Pointe Performing Arts Academy" to operate a school in the RP Zone. (I think this is going to be located in the old City building---Jim isn't really clear in his notes).
They carried a motion to cancel Barry Edwards contract as City Administrator. His last day will be January 4, 2010 and they will give him a 4 months severance pay with benefits. Several of the City Council members were surprised at this motion as they were not expecting it to be on the Agenda. But it was passed 5-0 with the mayor voting yes as well.
Nothing was brought up about the Makin Home.
They talked about and approved the removal of the fire damaged home located at 10031 N 6800 W.
They carried the motion (5-1) for the mayor to join the NCUAA (North Utah County Aquifer Assoc.) and talked about capping the Murdock Canal.
They talked about the 3rd phase (getting a Professional Service Agreement) for the design of the Murdock Connector Road and they authorized the Mayor to sign the agreement.
They passed an ordinance to amend certain portions of the RP Zone for the purpose of allowing schools. Then they talked about issuing a Conditional Use Permit for the" Pointe Performing Arts Academy" to operate a school in the RP Zone. (I think this is going to be located in the old City building---Jim isn't really clear in his notes).
They carried a motion to cancel Barry Edwards contract as City Administrator. His last day will be January 4, 2010 and they will give him a 4 months severance pay with benefits. Several of the City Council members were surprised at this motion as they were not expecting it to be on the Agenda. But it was passed 5-0 with the mayor voting yes as well.
Nothing was brought up about the Makin Home.
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