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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - Minutes - City Council - Meeting Date: 1/20/2009 *PLEASE NOTE: Since the Glendale City Council does not take formal action at the Workshops, Workshop minutes are not approved by the City Council. MINUTES CITY OF GLENDALE CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP JANUARY 20, 2009 PRESENT: Mayor Elaine M. Scruggs, Vice Mayor Manuel D. Martinez, and Councilmembers Joyce V. Clark, Steven E. Frate, David M. Goulet, Yvonne J. Knaack, and H. Phillip Lieberman ALSO PRESENT: Ed Beasley, City Manager; Pam Kavanaugh, Assistant City Manager; Craig Tindall, City Attorney; and Pamela Hanna, City Clerk 1. 2009 STATE LEGISLATIVE UPDATE AND 2009 FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE AGENDA DEVELOPMENT CITY STAFF PRESENTING THIS ITEM: Jessica Blazina, Intergovernmental Programs Director and Mr. Ryan Peters, Legislative Coordinator. This is a request for the City Council to provide guidance on proposed state legislation, consistent with the 2009 state legislative agenda; and to also provide guidance on the 2009 federal legislative agenda development that will form the foundation of the 2009 federal legislative agenda. • The purpose of the federal and state legislative agendas is to affect federal and state legislation and regulations as they relate to the interests of the City of Glendale and its residents. Throughout the 2009 legislative sessions, policy direction will be sought on proposed statutory changes which fall under the adopted Council policy statements relating to the financial stability of the city, public safety issues, promoting economic development, managing growth and preserving neighborhoods. The 2009 state and federal legislative agendas provide the policy framework by which Intergovernmental Programs staff engages on state and federal legislative issues. The legislative agenda defines the city's priorities for the upcoming session and will guide the city's lobbying activities at the Arizona State Legislature. The Intergovernmental Programs staff will update the Council on a regular basis throughout the session for guidance on bills and amendments that may be introduced. The city's legislative agenda is a flexible document and may change, based on activities at the Legislature and Council direction. 1 The Intergovernmental Programs staff recommends prioritizing the state legislative agenda to a few key issues to allow the city to have a stronger, more consistent message on the items of greatest priority. The proposed key priority issues for consideration are described in the attached reports. The Intergovernmental Programs Department has conducted a city-wide assessment of potential federal funding opportunities to be included in the 2009 Federal Legislative Agenda. Based on this assessment, staff recommends pursuing federal funding opportunities, including grant opportunities, line-item appropriations, earmarks and regulation revisions in the areas of: transportation, public safety, homeland security, historic preservation, libraries, and youth workforce development. The priorities and principles of Glendale's 2009 state legislative agenda provide the venue for the city to identify and engage on state legislative issues. The key principles of the state legislative agenda are: to preserve and enhance the city's ability to deliver quality and cost-effective services to citizens and visitors; to address quality-of-life issues for Glendale residents, and to enhance the City Council's ability to serve the community by retaining local decision making authority and maintaining state legislative and voter commitments for revenue sources. Development of a 2009 federal legislative agenda provides the venue for the city to identify and engage on federal issues of concern to the community, which will enhance the ability of the city to deliver superior services and to address quality of life issues for the residents of Glendale. Staff is requesting the Council to provide policy guidance on the proposed state legislative issues and federal legislative program development. Ms. Jessica Blazina, Intergovernmental Programs Director, stated she will briefly discuss the transition of the Governor's Office, the current budget situation, Presidential Inauguration, federal appropriation process and the proposed stimulus package. She stated Governor Napolitano is expected to be confirmed as Homeland Security Secretary of State this week with her resignation as Arizona's Governor expected as early as tomorrow. Secretary Jan Brewer is scheduled to be inaugurated as Arizona's next Governor tomorrow. The 49th legislator's first regular session convened on Monday, January 12th with the budget as its primary focus. She remarked that cities and towns across the state were focused on preserving shared revenue distributions at the 15% distribution level. She noted approximately 37% of Glendale's general fund is based upon these shared revenue distributions. She stated legislators had discussed that in order to meet the spending obligations for this year's budget; revenue would have to grow at a rate of 6%. However, forecasters explain that revenues are declining by nearly 10%. She remarked that revenue in FY 2010 was projected to be a negative 2.8% and FY 2011 is projected to return to positive growth at 3.6%. Ms. Blazina stated that the joint legislative budget committee staff presented the FY 2009 and FY 2010 budget options. The House and Senate appropriations Chairmen 2 have taken borrowing, account maneuvers and tax increases off the table, leaving spending reductions, fund transfers and possible federal assistance as the only alternatives. Mr. Ryan Peters, Legislative Coordinator, stated although the budget crisis will dominate much of the legislative session, they do anticipate other priority topics. He explained that photo radar has become a topic of interest among many legislators. He said legislation has been introduced impacting the Department of Public Safety's speed enforcement cameras along Arizona's freeway system. He noted there has also been discussions to establish a ballot initiative to eliminate the program altogether. Mr. Peters also provided information on the "Green" movement that has prompted the introduction of legislation in Arizona. He stated this introduction has created a plastic bag recycling program, programs to encourage location of renewable energy, as well as other conservation programs in the state. He noted they were monitoring these bills as they move through the process. He added that transportation has also been a hot issue. Although no bills have been introduced, many suspect the language and ideas from the failed time initiative will serve as a starting point to create a package. Ms. Blazina commented on President Obama's Inauguration. She stated President Obama has promised swift movement on the proposed economic stimulus package. She added his first hundred days will prove exciting and fast paced. The fiscal year 2009 appropriations process was cut short by the last congress as the year became consumed with the bailout of financial institutions and the auto industry. It is anticipated that congress will address the FY 2009 appropriations process in February, as well as the FY 2010 appropriation process. She explained that the goal of the proposed economic stimulus package was to target investment in key areas that will create and preserve good jobs, while strengthening the ability of this economy to become more efficient. She summarized the key components of the plan such as highway construction, clean water initiatives, gas consumption and other public infrastructure with investments that lead to long term energy cost savings. She noted it was anticipated these funds will be distributed through the exsisting formula process; however, this decision is not yet final. Councilmember Goulet commented on the budget, the revenue stream and population figures. Ms. Blazina explained that the numbers anticipate a decline and a leveling off in population growth. She noted forecasters were not going beyond 2012 to predict how quickly it would turn around. She added that although the stimulus package should have some effect, it was hard to predict since congress was still trying to negotiate those numbers. Councilmember Goulet asked how quickly a stimulus package would affect projects, should it be offered to the state. Ms. Blazina explained the package would possibly target transportation projects that are ready for advancement and can move very quickly. Vice Mayor Martinez inquired as to when Council would be receiving the next quarterly report. Ms. Pam Kavanaugh, Assistant City Manager, stated it was scheduled for February 3, 2009. Councilmember Frate commented they needed to be very vigilant about the state shared revenues. He explained that if reduced, it will affect every city in the state. Ms. Blazina stated that for Glendale's general fund, the figure was approximately 37% of the budget. 3 Councilmember Clark stated the bigger problem was the decline in money going into the state shared revenues. The funds are based on HURF, gasoline sales tax and income tax. She said those amounts, with or without a population decline, will have an effect since people have not been spending the way they were previously. She noted even though it was critical to maintain state shared revenues, the city was still going to take a hit this year. She said it would be interesting to know how much those funds have declined. She added that the information would give them a better idea of how much they will not be receiving from state shared revenues in the coming year. Mayor Scruggs asked Ms. Blazina if the figure was 10% as stated in the slide provided. Ms. Blazina stated that the 10% signifies the total for all revenue sources. Mayor Scruggs commented that their shared revenues were actually sales tax collected throughout the entire state, as well as income tax and vehicle license tax. She noted they were counting on $68 million as Glendale's portion of shared revenue. Mayor Scruggs asked Mr. Peters if the proposed ballot initiative to remove the photo radar cameras would make it illegal in the entire state of Arizona. Mr. Peters responded she was correct. He stated there were a number of groups organizing to ban photo radar altogether. 2. COUNCIL ITEMS OF SPECIAL INTEREST This is the quarterly opportunity for the City Council to identify topics of interest they would like the City Manager to research and assess for placement on a future workshop agenda. In the fall of 2002, the Council approved a procedural guideline allowing for topics of special interest to be identified by the Council on a quarterly basis for follow-up by the City Manager. Staff is available to answer any questions regarding information provided. Staff also requests the Council to identify items of interest for follow-up by staff during the next quarter. Ms. Pam Kavanaugh, Assistant City Manager, introduced this item, stating there was a report on each item for Council's review. Additionally, all staff members who took part in preparing the reports were here today to answer any questions or provide additional information. Mayor Scruggs stated they will review each item separately and ask for any comments. She introduced the first item, Glendale and Small Businesses, introduced by Councilmember Clark. Councilmember Clark asked staff to briefly review this item for business owners that may not be aware of some of this information. Mr. Art Lynch, Deputy City Manager, stated that Arizona Department of Commerce describes a small business as a company with 100 employees or less. According to the Census Bureau, 84% of businesses in our metro area employ less than 20 people. As a result, recognizing the importance of small businesses and their status in this economic climate, the Glendale Economic Development Department has initiated 4 several steps in the last year to assist small businesses opening their doors in Glendale. Among the most important include: "Opening a Business in Glendale", on Glendale's website, launching the first ever citywide Business Retention and Expansion Program and expedited review and the Ombudsman Program. He noted there was a multitude of Federal, State and Local programs with over 40 business assistance programs available focused on improving small businesses. He explained one of the best practices identified was to put them in contact with pre-established processes already set up by major institutions. The City of Glendale already works with small businesses as a part of their day-to-day responsibilities. Additionally, over the last year, there have been 11 new small business expansions, which translate into 1,150 jobs. Mr. Brian Friedman, Economic Development Director, explained the attached articles on economic development. The articles provided details on the free open market adjusting to current economic conditions and the role the federal government is playing to provide capital to local small businesses. Councilmember Clark commented she would like to explore three areas further. She said she appreciated the fact that they were focused on bringing new businesses in; however, she was more concerned with business retention. She stated she was concerned with the small business base that has been in Glendale for many years and is now in the position of banks not lending them working capital. She asked if there was any mechanism or program tailored to assist with advice or information on where they can receive working capital loans. Mr. Lynch explained they were doing a number of things, such as the website; however, the problem was with the economy, which has caused hardships not only for small businesses, but all businesses. He stated they have been working with the banks for local redevelopment and development types of financing arrangements, where some leveraging of funds could exist. He noted they will continue to work with the banks until capital breaks loose and becomes available again. He explained how the banking industry was also going through their own turmoil with the amount of capital they can advance because of loses they have also incurred. Councilmember Clark reiterated her concerns on retention of small businesses. She asked Mr. Lynch what the department's primary focus was at the moment. Mr. Lynch explained their primary focus was on things the city can address to facilitate help for small businesses going through the process of acquiring capital. Councilmember Clark asked if there were any success stories of the city helping someone secure capital by pointing them in the right direction. Mr. Lynch responded they had some success and cited some examples. Mr. Friedman agreed and was happy to announce they had launched the first Economic Development Department and Business Retention and Expansion Program. As part of the outreach, the new program involves face-to-face interaction with Glendale companies to find out what their needs are and how they can assist. Councilmember Clark asked when the program will be launched. Mr. Friedman stated they had already met with 31 companies to date. Councilmember Clark commented she believed it was really important for the city to be proactive in assisting small businesses in Glendale in anyway they can. She noted it was essential to move quickly on this issue because of the economic crises. Vice Mayor Martinez read from the report which stated the department found that providing monetary incentives to small businesses had far too much risk when the city had scarce funds. He commented he hopes the city had not ruled out assisting a viable business. He added he would not like to rule out any possibility. Mr. Lynch explained that what they have tried to do is utilize other tools such as federal grant funding for small businesses. He noted they use those tools to supplement the process as 5 opposed to direct city investment. Maydr Scruggs commented she did not remember budgeting incentive funds for businesses going through tough times. She asked Mr. Lynch to clarify. Mr. Lynch stated she was correct and was only referencing programs such the Dining District and VIP program. Councilmember Lieberman asked if they could possibly expand the Dining District and VIP programs. He related how tough economic times had prompted a closing of a store after 28 years, as well as many others. He noted that education was essential in running a successful business. He discussed how the city should use local merchants as opposed to large chains. He observed this will help the small local merchants in the area. Councilmember Goulet asked if the city has encountered businesses asking for better or matching incentives from other cities. Mr. Friedman responded that they do encounter this issue. He stated staff maintains contact with more than 400 brokers and several hundred local developers and businesses which keep them aware when businesses or developers relocate. He added they do what they can to negotiate rates and incentives to lure affluent businesses into the area. Councilmember Goulet asked if their office intended to bring any new approaches and information to Council for review and consideration. Mr. Lynch remarked it would be possible to make Council aware of those opportunities; however, there were a lot of issues associated with the final determination regarding the final decision on a business: Councilmember Goulet commented he understood his position; however, he believes the Council should be aware of other approaches being considered, if only for the sake of discussion. Mayor Scruggs stated she would like to add Councilmember Goulet's suggestion to discuss new business decisions, as well as new opportunities considered for Glendale at the scheduled half day economic development workshop meeting this quarter. Councilmember Knaack commented on a meeting she attended with over 30 property owners. She explained that in this economic climate, all businesses have to tighten their belt. She stated she does not believe it is the city's responsibility to bailout businesses; however, does believe it is their responsibility to facilitate whatever help the city can provide. She noted there were a lot of resources designed to help businesses. She remarked that one area in which the city could help without making it financial, would be in the permitting process, possibly in making adjustments for signage issues downtown. Councilmember Clark reiterated her comments on focusing on business retention. She stated the Dining District and VIP programs were nice; however, they were not critical at the moment. She explained there needed to be a legal or pro-active mechanism in place for putting a business owner in touch with the right institution and the city advocating for that business owner. Councilmember Frate remarked that if they want to help the business owners, they needed to shop in those local businesses more than once. He explained he recently had to find a contractor and had chosen one in Glendale. Mayor Scruggs introduced the second item, Education ad Medical Outreach, introduced by Councilmember Goulet. She asked for any comments. Councilmember Goulet stated that the information was helpful; however, would like to explore with the school or medical community, incentives the city would create to retain 6 businesses in Glendale. He suggested a think tank to find ways to explore this further. He stated the city already had a relationship with the university and medical communities, however, would like to take it one step further, making it easier for them to remain in Glendale instead of moving to a larger city. Councilmember Frate commented that his district has attracted businesses because of the location of Banner and Arrowhead Hospitals. He said it has already started working with related businesses moving into the city. He explained that these businesses provided good paying jobs and it was a service that will always be needed. He added with Banner Thunderbird's expansion, several hundred jobs and new people will be brought into the area. Mayor Scruggs commented on the State of Business Community meeting she attended, which had discussed Councilmember Goulet's suggestion on this topic. She said at that meeting, the massive exodus of medical students was discussed, which was at 90%. She noted there had been much concern on the matter and they were trying to find ways to turn it around. She explained there was $2 billion a year in medical services lost, where Arizonans go elsewhere because services were not offered here. She remarked that Councilmember Goulet's concerns were actually being felt region-wide and they were now looking at ways to work with the state government to turn that around. She added this has become a very important industry, with critical revenue, that needed to be explored. Councilmember Goulet commented that one of the reasons why he finds this appealing was because of the ripple effect connected with this industry that can be substantial in the demand of services and creation of jobs. He noted they should continue to pursue the medical and educational community to stay in the state. Councilmember Knaack commented that Banner was laying-off people because of the economy. She added ASU West and the School of Global Management were no longer offering a program cooperatively. She noted it was a real shame they had stopped offering it. Councilmember Lieberman commented on some literature he had brought back from a meeting he attended called "Campus to Council". The material was about working closer together with our institutions. He said he had shared that information with staff and encourages the Council to review it. He explained there has been very little, if any, contact with Dr. Green, other than himself and Councilmember Clark. He said he believed they still had a long way to go in terms of working closer with those institutions. Mayor Scruggs commented on an upcoming meeting in April with Dr. Green of Glendale Community College. She added she has met with Dr. Green before at many luncheons and was excited with her desire to partner with the city. She stated Dr. Green had reached out for a stronger partnership with the city. Ms. Kavanaugh commented that she and staff members had been in contact with her and her staff on dates and agendas for consideration of a meeting. Mayor Scruggs commented on the good relationship the city had with Dr. Cabrera and Mid Western University. Mayor Scruggs commented that the Tourism Program had also been terminated at ASU West. She stated it was a shame because the Parks and Recreation Department worked very closely with them. Councilmember Knaack remarked that her current Glendale Today Show featured Dr. Green from Glendale Community College. She encouraged everyone to watch. 7 Mayor Scruggs introduced the third item, loitering, introduced by Councilmember Goulet. She asked for any comments. Councilmember Goulet stated this issue was raised by some downtown merchants who were concerned about the perception of people congregating in areas which may pose a potential risk. He also related an occurrence of a pan-handler incident that occurred last week. He had spoken to Chief Conrad about the issue. He remarked that in response to this issue being brought up, police reaction has been tremendous. He said business owners had commented they had seen significant improvement. Mayor Scruggs asked if he was satisfied with the current outcome. Councilmember Goulet stated he was satisfied with the tools and statutes currently in place. He noted the city attorney had recommended they not draft any new ordinance since none was needed at the moment. He mentioned that some had discussed possibly adding "No Loitering" signs to the areas. Chief Conrad thanked the Council for bringing this issue to his attention. He stated he believes this issue can be handled with existing laws. Department Representatives have discussed the signage issue with some of the merchants. He reiterated they had the tools in place and will make addressing these problems in the downtown area a priority. Mayor Scruggs commented on how people became uncomfortable when they see loitering. She explained that from what she understood from the information provided, loitering occurs when the person is exhibiting behavior that was causing a problem. Chief Conrad agreed. He said under the Arizona revised statutes, loitering was tied to specific behaviors. Mayor Scruggs stated it was important that people understand what constitutes loitering, which does not always extend to someone just standing in front of a building for a long period of time. Chief Conrad commented he would not discourage anyone contacting the police when they witness suspicious behavior. Councilmember Knaack commented that the response time was most important. She noted every citizen likes the police to respond quickly and does believe the laws were already in place to handle this situation. Mayor Scruggs introduced the forth item, text messaging while driving, introduced by Councilmember Goulet. She asked for any comments. Councilmember Goulet stated this was another issue that had been brought to him by concerned citizens. He commented on a meeting he had with 25 people who supported the idea. He said although it was not a primary tool for the city, it would help send the message that text messaging was a serious problem. He noted that over 91% perceive text messaging as a severe problem. Chief Conrad reported that in looking at accidents in Glendale over the last four years, approximately 23% were caused by driver distractions. He noted the statistics did not show how the driver was distracted. The trend around the county was laws that prohibit the use of hand held cell phones. The City of Phoenix has passed an ordinance focused solely on text messaging. They have only cited nine drivers because of the difficulty of enforcement and not knowing when someone was indeed text messaging or simply dialing. He remarked that a House Bill has been introduced in the Arizona legislature that will restrict, if passed, the use of hand held cell phones while driving. He stated as it stands now, officers will be using exsisting laws to enforce. Councilmember Goulet commented on new vehicle technology, which had hand-free operation. He stated implementing those kinds of recommendations helps the public perceive it as being helpful and safe. 8 Councilmember Clark remarked that she will be interested in seeing what becomes of the House Bill on this matter. She also agrees with Councilmember Goulet on the city moving forward with some sort of hands-free ordinance, if the state legislator does not enact any such legislation. Vice Mayor Martinez stated he had read in today's paper an article on text messaging and cell phone use. It pointed out that the National Public Safety Association confirmed that cell phone use causes a lot of accidents. He stated he was glad to hear that a House Bill was being introduced. Mayor Scruggs commented on drivers, who use their cell phones, when driving through the City Hall garage, it is dangerous in such a confined space. She inquired as to the use of GPS systems and if there was any evidence that it has become a distraction as with cell phone use. Chief Conrad responded he had not seen any data on that issue; however, can only assume it could hold itself to the level of distraction, as changing a CD, radio station or taking a sip of coffee. He stated he does not see a time when they would prohibit all activity inside a vehicle; however, these distractions are very real. Mayor Scruggs introduced the fifth item, Movie Night at Murphy Park Amphitheater, introduced by Councilmember Goulet. She asked for any comments. Councilmember Goulet stated that one of the discussions he had with staff was to see if they could possibly find some sponsors for this event. The cost to offer a movie event can range from $3,500 - $5,000 per event. He thanked Ms. Becky Benna, Parks and Recreation Director, for all the information gathered on this item. He noted that the intent was to stimulate and bring some activity into the downtown area for downtown businesses. He added they will continue to look for ways it can be done without the city's financial involvement, as well as their time. Councilmember Clark stated it was a great idea; however, was not willing to pay for it at this time. Councilmember Goulet agreed. He added even if it was sponsored, there could be some cost the city would face because of the maintenance regarding the park. Mayor Scruggs commented there was a church by her house that does this as Family Night in the Park. She added there might be a partnering opportunity available in many churches around the downtown area. Councilmember Knaack stated she too believes it was a great idea. She asked if anyone watched the movie in the Amphitheater during Glitter and Glow. She noted the place was packed. Vice Mayor Martinez commented he also knows of the Copper Creek Church that shows movies with no real religious message. He said he has attended and has had a fun time, which makes for a great family evening. Mayor Scruggs introduced the sixth item, the "green" building program, Outreach and Education, introduced by Councilmember Goulet. She asked for any comments. Councilmember Goulet stated staff was asked to research the possibility of establishing a green building committee that would accelerate the adoption of building practices resulting in practical green building approaches for residential and commercial construction. He inquired as to the white paper staff had been working on. Mr. Doug Kukino, Environmental Resources Director, stated staff was still working on that paper, which includes what other cities are doing and what the green building standards were, as well as recommendations for the city. Councilmember Goulet commented that the city was behind on this issue and believes they were in a great position to offer the community a green program they could participate in. He explained he would like to 9 explore how residents can start advocating for green and let the city know they are doing it. He would also like to know what kind of return they might receive in a green investment. He also mentioned the difficulty in going green in these economic times, as it is known to be more expensive. He explained he would like to explore what other cities are doing and what we can consider offering or making available from a city's prospective, verses private enterprise. He concluded he was really looking forward to receiving the white paper on this important issue because of the need to move forward in this direction. Mayor Scruggs introduced the seventh item, vegetable oil fuel processing (Biodiesel), introduced by Councilmember Goulet. She asked for any comments. Councilmember Goulet remarked someone had advocated this process when gasoline prices were high. He commented that the real concern was the storage of this fuel and whether the city had anything in place regarding the safety of this fuel. Chief Burdick stated there was no specific code addressing this issue. However, there were other code enforcements in effect and citizens could always call the Fire Marshall's office. He explained it has been determined this is no more or less hazardous than a commercial facility that stores large amounts of hazardous materials. Councilmember Goulet stated he was comfortable with the policies set in place at the moment. Mayor Scruggs introduced the eighth item, banners on streetlight poles, introduced by her. Mayor Scruggs stated that a community had expressed interest in installing banners on streetlight poles and wanted to know why they were permitted on some poles and not others, She stated she read through the material provided, which detailed a lot of concerns on the many things that can happen when using the banners on poles. As a result, the conclusion was for neighborhoods not to be allowed to put banners on streetlight poles. However, a sentence caught her attention which indicated there could possibly be a process developed. It stated if the city were to consider a banner program, then the requirements would have to ensure that the cost of installing foundation poles, banner brackets, and continual maintenance for safety and aesthetic appeal, does not impact the city's budget. Mayor Scruggs asked if a neighborhood would come forward and provide an insurance policy or show funds in their home owner's association budget to meet the criteria, would the city then consider developing a residential banner program. Mr. Jamsheed Mehta, AICP Transportation Director, explained the cost of installing a foundation pole in the residential area, which most communities do not have. He said they would need to replace all poles in accordance to city regulations that will carry a banner and place them on a concrete foundation to be able to absorb the wind. Mayor Scruggs responded she will inform this neighborhood of the criteria provided today. She added this community was really intent and focused on this issue. Mayor Scruggs asked for any other criteria. Mr. Mehta stated they would also need to go through a banner program, which was provided by the city's marketing department, for the commercial areas. He noted there was a cost for installation and keeping the banner brackets maintained, as well as any liability of flying material coming out of the bracket. Mayor Scruggs noted the neighborhood really did not want the city involved in maintaining or changing out the banners. Mr. Mehta remarked the poles they buy would have to be engineered, surveyed and inspected by the city and conform to the safety 10 standards set in a residential streetlight program. He once again discussed the liability to the city should the banners cause any problems. He noted the neighborhood would have to contract with the city because of the unforeseen problems that may arise. Councilmember Knaack commented that the neighborhood would have to have insurance and a licensed contractor when acquiring the pole; therefore, it should make it easier for the city. Mayor Scruggs remarked she agrees and really did not fully understand the issue, because staff was making this out to be the biggest engineering situation in the world. She reiterated the criteria Mr. Mehta provided should be forwarded to this neighborhood. Councilmember Frate commented that these poles were very expensive. Mayor Scruggs remarked this was very important to this community and they should be allowed to do this if they met all the criteria. Mr. Mehta commented on how the marketing department program for the banners would have to be included and in support of this venture. He said they would have to develop a program for residential areas. Mayor Scruggs stated this dealt more with safety on streetlight poles in residential neighborhoods and not the marketing department. Mr. Mehta responded this will all be a function of the city and they would have to figure out the process. He added there was also an ongoing component to maintain the banner program, which takes away from the street lighting program. He said it involves the marketing department making sure they were complying with the day-to-day banner practices. Mayor Scruggs inquired why the marketing department would be involved in the banners if the neighborhood was not marketing the city. Mr. Mehta remarked there were some guidelines associated with banners, even on the commercial side as to what kind of message or content was on the banners. This would also have to apply to the residential side. Mayor Scruggs agreed and once again listed the criteria the neighborhood would have to go through in order to be considered for a residential street banner program. Councilmember Lieberman commented on all the steps the neighborhood would have to go through, starting with an architectural firm and contractor. Vice Mayor Martinez asked if something were to go wrong, would it be code compliance that would enforce it. Mr. Mehta stated there would have to be regular inspections by the neighborhood. Mr. Ed Beasley, City Manager, added inspections could come from any number of agencies, depending on the final outcome and what the problem is. Mayor Scruggs called for the new list of requests for items of special interest. Councilmember Clark requested that a Utilities Sub-Committee and perhaps a Public Safety Committee be restarted. She would also like to revisit the continuation of the Property Maintenance Sub-Committee after the major zoning revisions were completed. Councilmember Frate requested that the city explore becoming a facilitator for the return of an annual Veteran's Day Parade. He stated there were many groups willing to subsidize funds towards a Veteran's Day Parade. He would also like to explore the issue with sign walkers and the city's role in making them less distracting to citizens on the road. Vice Mayor Martinez requested looking into the issues surrounding rental properties and the change that required the property owner, not the lessee, be responsible for any unpaid water bills. He stated a constituent had called him very upset that the city was doing this. He asked for the city to possibly raise the deposit requirement, as well as explore what other cities are doing along those lines. He also asked staff to look into rental property owners paying their taxes because he believes it was not always the 11 case. In short, he request information on rental properties in order to examine certain issues that have come to his attention. Mayor Scruggs commented on Vice Mayor Martinez's request on the issue surrounding rental property owner's new responsibility in paying overdue water bills. She stated she had received several calls from unhappy residents on this matter. She explained this was a major problem because the property owner was not allowed to see the bill; however, was required to pay it. She suggested possibly including a box to check which allowed the property owner to see if the bill goes unpaid. She requested they find a better way of dealing with this and allow the owner of the property to be able to find out when a water bill was outstanding and left unpaid by a tenant. She added this requirement had been on the books for some time; however, has not been enforced until now because of budget issues. Councilmember Lieberman requested they explore ideas for the development of the Adult Center's 2°d floor. Councilmember Goulet commented on the sign walker issue. He stated that to avoid duplication, as part of the Property Owner's Sub-Committee, he has already asked staff to look into creating reasonable standards, which the cities can do Councilmember Knaack remarked she really had no items to bring forward because the things she wanted to have done could not wait three months. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 3:40 p.m.