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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - Minutes - City Council - Meeting Date: 12/1/2009 *PLEASE NOTE: Since the Glendale City Council does not take formal action at the Workshops,Workshop minutes are not approved by the City Council. ri 71 1` GLENttE MINUTES OF THE GLENDALE CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP SESSION Council Chambers—Workshop Room 5850 West Glendale Avenue December 01, 2009 1:30 p.m. 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 WORKSHOP SESSION 1. GLENDALE CENTERLINE UPDAft CITY STAFF PRESENTING THIS ITEM: Jim Colson, Deputy City Manager, Jon M. Froke, AICP, Planning Director, and Dick Bowers of RA Bowers & Associates This is a request for the City Council to engage in dialogue facilitated by Richard Bowers regarding the Glendale Centerline Project and the proposed Glendale Centerline Overlay District. This is the fifth in a series of planned Council Workshops regarding the Glendale Centerline Project. The Revitalization Strategy addresses several Council Strategic Goals which include the following- strong neighborhoods, quality economic development, a vibrant city center and a city that is fiscally sound. At the Council Goal Review and Strategic Planning Retreat held on November 26, 2007, Council discussed key objectives and goals for FY 2008-09. The primary objective identified by Council was a desire to create a clear vision for redevelopment of the Glendale Avenue corridor (Glendale Centerline) located between 43"d Avenue and 67th Avenue, between Myrtle Avenue and Ocotillo Road. In May 2008, "Discovery Tours" were made by the Mayor, Council and staff to cities that had successful redevelopment programs. Visits were made to cities in Southern California, the greater Denver and Portland areas. These tours and findings have assisted in the development of a set of core principles, policy options and images that continue to define the vision and create a frame of reference for dialogue. Implementation of Council's initiative has included public events and meetings, partnerships with Arizona State University (ASU) and the Phoenix Urban Research Laboratory, marketing efforts, research, and formally engaging content experts to assist with benchmarking, community involvement, branding and design. Over the past 14 months, hundreds of community stakeholders have identified and shared their vision and ideas for the future of the corridor. They participated in events such as: business and property owner breakfasts, citizen focus groups, workshops, a vision fair, a congress of neighborhoods, traveling centerline booths, on-line information sharing, as well as updates at City Council Workshops. Based on information gathering, feedback and input from stakeholders as well as the common themes received throughout the public participation process the following have been developed as Guiding Principles for the Centerline Redevelopment Plan: 1. Create a sense of place that reflects the unique character and history of Glendale. 2. Promote mixed-use development that encourages both daytime and nighttime activity. 3. Create anchors, nodes and destinations throughout the Centerline. 4. Employ pedestrian, traffic, parking and public transit circulation options that complement existing development and additional capacity needs created by new development. 5. Encourage a live-work environment with diverse housing styles including high density urban living options and workforce alternatives. 6. Continue and enhance the city's long-standing commitment to family-friendly, public spaces, art, water features, shade structures and pedestrian amenities throughout the Centerline. 7. Support innovative urban design elements with preference given to green initiatives and creating a sustainable environment. Over the past few months staff has been developing the Glendale Centerline Overlay District, which is a flexible and expedited alternate set of development guidelines to encourage enhanced economic vitality and sustainability within the Centerline. The overlay district was developed based on the feedback, comments and input received from the public, business owners, property owners and local developers. Within an overlay district the existing zoning remains in existence and development can take place utilizing the overlay district zoning or the original zoning. Additional events are scheduled where citizens, Centerline stakeholders, developers and architects can provide comments on the proposed Glendale Centerline Overlay District as well as the Centerline Redevelopment Plan. On May 28, 2009, Council attended a Special Workshop at ASU's Decision Theatre where the Spring Design Studio presented their report and vision for the Glendale Centerline Project. At the March 18, 2008, August 12, 2008, and December 16, 2008 Council Workshops, Council engaged in dialogue facilitated by Richard Bowers regarding the Council's efforts to enhance the vitality of the Glendale Centerline and create a vibrant city center. At the Glendale City Council Goal Review and Strategic Planning Retreat held on November 26, 2007 and facilitated by Richard Bowers, Council discussed key objectives and goals for FY 2008-09. This topic was also revisited at the FY 2009-10 Council Strategic Planning Retreat in November 2008. 2 The Council adopted the City Center Master Plan on July 23, 2002 by Resolution No. 3602 New Series. The goal of the project is to create a redevelopment strategy, which will revitalize the Glendale Avenue Corridor. The Centerline Plan will: o Develop tools to attract private business investment,job creation, housing, mixed- use development and recreational opportunities. o Develop more flexible rules relating to zoning, signage, design standards, live entertainment, outdoor dining and assistance programs. During spring 2009, events were held to engage the public and stakeholders in the project including: a property owners' breakfast was held in February and in March both a business owners' breakfast and a staff focus group were held. A focus group for businesses located within the outer areas of the Centerline was held in June. Throughout the months of November and December 2008, the"Traveling Centerline Booth" was developed as a way to inform residents about the project and gather citizen feedback. Staff took the Centerline booth on the road and visited a number of community and public facilities. During fall 2008, a number of public Glendale Centerline events took place. In October ASU students facilitated a small group workshop and the Vision Fair took place in Murphy Park. In September the Congress of Neighborhoods and Kick-Off Breakfast were held at the Glendale Civic Center. This is an opportunity for Council to receive an update and engage in dialogue facilitated by Richard Bowers regarding the Glendale Centerline Project and the Glendale Centerline Overlay District. Mr. Dick Bowers of RA Bowers & Associates presented the summary on the Centerline Plan. He reviewed the Council Strategic Goals which began at a retreat November 26, 2007. The Revitalization Strategy addresses Council Strategic Goals, which include the following: • Strong neighborhoods • Quality economic development • Vibrant city center • A city that is fiscally sound The primary objective identified by the Council was a desire to create a clear vision for redevelopment and revitalization within the city. Aspects included in this objective were a focus on infill development throughout the city and creating a vision and action for downtown Glendale. He discussed the ASU's Decision Theatre's great work and involvement in the project. He indicated that two graduate students stated they would like to prepare their master thesis on Glendale, at no cost to the city. He has met with those students and will be bringing their proposals forward to staff. He encouraged the Council to stay the course and be patient, even through these hard economic times. He asked them to choose wisely on what will fit in their Centerline vision, He explained that the city's system was in place with great structures that were needed to take the Centerline forward. Policy decisions are still being made and will come online in the next period of time. He indicated that the online information for the public was in place and doing very well. He discussed how continuing public and business involvement was essential, as well as having a visual Centerline presence. He stated that sharing the vision 3 was very important and needed to be continually shared. He thanked the Council for the privilege of being associated with this project. Mr. Jim Colson, Deputy City Manager, thanked Mr. Bowers for his leadership. He stated that up to this point, city staff had been focused on the fundamentals; however, they will now be transitioning to defining a specific action plan and implementation strategy. He indicated that they had made significant progress taking the comments that have been provided by Mayor and Council; the citizen participation process and real-estate and development community. He stated they had produced an action and implementation plan strategy including performance metrics which they planned to bring forward in early January. He noted the importance of measuring the number of jobs created, increased tax collections and absorbed square footage that occurs in the area. He explained the importance of an overlay district to the Centerline's success. He asked Mr. Jon M. Froke, A1CP, and Planning Director, to explain further. Mr. Jon M. Froke, A1CP, Planning Director, provided a slide presentation discussing the city's different concepts of an overlay district. He explained how the Glendale Centerline Overlay District will be sectioned into four character areas with themes. The Overlay District is intended to be a flexible zoning tool for the Centerline area. The four Character Areas are the Entrada, Sugar Beet, Historic Downtown and Mercado. He stated these four tides were put together as working tides for discussion purposes. The Entrada District refers to 43rd Avenue to 50 Avenue, Sugar Beet Factory District- 51" Avenue to 55th Avenue, Historic Downtown District - 55°i Avenue to 59`h Avenue and Mercado District - 59th Avenue to 67°' Avenue. He explained that the Overlay District is an alternative set of development standards which promotes flexibility and allows for streamlining the approval process. He stated that existing zoning would remain in place. Property owners can choose to use either existing zoning or the Overlay District, but not both zoning districts. In addition, the GCOD would adapt to market conditions and be flexible. This process will benefit both property and business owners, builders and developers; residents and visitors and the City of Glendale. The advantage is a more responsive system and provides greater flexibility in land use and development standards than existing zoning district. It is also an excellent tool to encourage creative redevelopment within the Centerline. He provided two example comparisons of development opportunities. He stated the next step was for Council to provide direction to proceed with the Overlay District. He noted that other important dates include the Centerline Open House & Focus Groups with stakeholders in December 2009, Planning Commission initiative in January of 2010, City Council Workshop in February 2010 to discuss the citizen's participation efforts and the Planning Commission feedback and finally a City Council Meeting in March 2010 to adopt an ordinance to create the Centerline Overlay District. Councilmember Goulet asked a question about the term "anchor" on page 2 of their handouts. Mr. Colson explained they were looking for something that will become the impetus of additional development for the city. He noted this will set the anchor and what will be built around that particular area. He added that one of their goals was not to harm existing businesses in the area. Councilmember Goulet asked if an anchor meant a 50,000 or 100,000 square foot building or something else. Mr. Froke explained it would depend on the site, location and its footprint. He stated they would work with the applicant and developer to establish that footprint. It will later be approved through the design review process. Councilmember Goulet asked if they were looking for anchors primarily in vacant properties rather than existing areas. Mr. Colson indicated that development and redevelopment will occur from people either newly coming in who see an opportunity or existing businesses to who expand. He noted that their plans do not differentiate between those two categories. He stated they had a specific outreach program to attract people to the vacant land; however, existing land owners with good investments opportunities would be encouraged. Mayor Scruggs remarked that her understanding of an anchor was that it was any kind of business that consistently brings people to that site. She stated that in her mind, an anchor could be a store such as Trader Joe's or a real good restaurant such as Pedro's. She believes these kinds of businesses were anchors because they were so well known and well liked and consistently drew foot traffic. Mr. Colson agreed. He remarked that each of the districts were 4 different, as well as their expectations. He stated that their ultimate goal was achievable desirable developments. Mayor Scruggs indicated that an anchor could also be a business that was out of their usual realm and flourishes in a specific area. Mr. Colson explained that ultimately businesses are the ones that will decide what and where they want to develop since they were putting up the money. He noted it was very important they have the flexibility to accommodate those businesses that have Glendale's best interest as well as their own to establish. Mayor Scruggs stated the city will essentially convey to business owners and investors that they were open to new ideas as long as it is in the city's best interest. Mr. Colson and Mr. Froke both agreed. Councilmember Knaack commented that many people viewed grocery stores in strip malls as anchors. She would like to get away from that aspect and think of possibly having a Starbucks or a Hallmark store that serves that community, whether it's commercial or residential. She envisioned these types of businesses as anchor. Councilmember Lieberman commented on how in a Colorado district, the anchors were a theater and a popular restaurant. He discussed how several business owners had proposed business interest in the Glendale area, however, none had developed to fruition. Vice Mayor Martinez discussed a newspaper article that featured another city in the valley proposing an overlay district. He indicated the article stated that one of the problems with an overlay development in an older area was meeting the fire codes. He said cities were doing away with the sprinkler requirements and asked if Glendale would be following suite if fire codes become a problem. Mr. Colson responded that they continually evaluate options which enable them to meet requirements without posing any danger risk. They will continue to evaluate this matter and possibly bring specific recommendations at a later time. Mr. Froke remarked he was confident they had the right personnel and mind set to continue to make projects work. Vice Mayor Martinez inquired as to development information for the north and south of Glendale Avenue regarding the Centerline Plan. He had not heard it mentioned in the presentation. Mr. Bowers remarked that he apologized if he left the impression that the area was not being evaluated. He explained that all areas were being assessed, including the extension of north and south of Glendale, if opportunities exist. Councilmember Clark commented on the heights of buildings that were being proposed. She stated she was not being an advocate, however, would like to hear the public's comments on the issue and what was tolerated. She added that the greater the height of the buildings, the greater the investor's return. She also discussed how Colorado property owners had identified to the business community the specific types of developments they wanted to attract. She asked if this was something that was being thought of once the zoning overlay was completed. Mr. Colson responded yes. He explained that economic development was only achievable by understanding what was attainable and doing good target marketing. He explained their goal was to convey the fact that they were the potential solution to the client's problems. Councilmember Clark stated that anchors do not have to be buildings, but can also be public open space. She said transportation was also a concern she had since Glendale Avenue lacked width and space. Since the goal was to attract more people to the area, transportation will become critical. She asked that staff develop ideas on the issue of mass transit for the area. She also asked staff to provide City Council with copies of any material that is presented to the public so they can be kept informed. Councilmember Lieberman asked if any new developments had occurred concerning the Sugar Beet Factory. Mr. Colson responded that they generally do not discuss pending economic developments because of their sensitive nature. Councilmember Lieberman disagreed with Mr. Colson's position. He stated he did not believe that keeping it a secret was to the advantage of the Council. Councilmember Frate commented on the project timeline. He explained that most might believe 2007 was a long time ago for a project; however, in actuality, a lot has been accomplished in very little time. He remarked on the many opportunities that businesses and developers will have once this is completed. He stated they had come a long way with their goals and visions, however, still have a ways to go. He indicated this was an opportune time to offer developers the 5 opportunity to discuss issues and pursue a plan that is not yet being done in other cities. He noted that urban living was becoming a very popular life style. Mayor Scruggs commented on the impressions her daughter and her daughter's fiancée had while having dinner with her in the downtown area. She said they were visiting from out of town and she had been interested in their unsolicited opinions. She stated one comment was that the area was scary at night as many businesses were closed and some of the few people on the street were concerning. Another comment was that it was hard to cross Glendale Avenue because many people were speeding. She remarked that these impressions came from someone who knew the area as well as someone who had never seen it. Mayor Scruggs asked for clarification on the comment made by Mr. Froke that property owners can choose to use either the existing zoning or the Overlay District. She asked if this was also done when the Catlin Court overlay was established. Mr. Froke stated that the Catlin Court PAD was not an overlay, but rather a standalone zoning district. Mayor Scruggs asked the reason why the property owners were now being given the choice. Mr. Froke responded that it relates to the flexibility needed to attract viable developments. Mayor Scruggs discussed Mr. Bowers' staffed storefront effort to get the word out for the Centerline Project. She suggested getting the business owners involved in the process. She explained that many property and business owners have not seen anything happen in the last two years. She recommended having businesses display banners or enact some type of marketing effort engaging property owners that would like to become involved. She would like to create a greater sense of volume, enthusiasm and help re- energize the community in the area. Mayor Scruggs discussed the naming of the four districts. She believed the future in terms of business development was in the 43rd to 51" Avenue area. She disagrees with the name "Entrada" which says nothing to the public. She explained that the name needs to convey confidence for investors and "Entrada" does not tell them anything. She suggested something like"Mid-Town" or something to that effect that conveys business or an urban concept. She also believed that"Mercado" was a bit overused. Vice Mayor Martinez commented that he liked "Entrada", however, did not like "Mercado" because of the many times it was used and never got off the ground in other cities. Councilmember Lieberman commented on the properties the city owns and believes city should find ways to utilize them. He remarked on how many people attended the festivities on Friday night in the downtown area and sees it as an encouraging sign. Councilmember Clark remarked that she too disagrees with the names "Mercado" and "Entrada". She indicated the name Mercado is much overused and appears on many businesses from 59`" and 67th Avenue on Bethany Home Road. She agreed with Mayor Scruggs' suggestion of having downtown business and property owners involved in the Centerline Plan process. She explained how downtown businesses in Colorado were formalized into organizations that collect dues and did a lot of their own public work in regards to attracting development to their area. She indicated she has yet to see the downtown businesses in Glendale make that kind of commitment. She noted Glendale really needed a nighttime destination area. She agrees with the negative impressions at night in downtown Glendale. She stated it did not convey a vibrant nightlife, but possibly a scary area. She stated it needed to be turn around and be a destination location where visitors can relax and enjoy themselves. She cited the parking garage's store spaces are still empty and could be rented. She stated it was a shame to have those spaces empty when they could be utilized by a small business. She asked staff to continue to look into the issue and possibly rent it out at a low market rate. Mayor Scruggs agreed with Councilmember Clark's observation that many of the cities they had visited had formed their own downtown organizations and believes it was a great idea if something like that could happen here. She also believes the parking garage should be utilized and was thankful for the current tenant. She noted any market rate used to attract business owners will be given to the current tenant. Vice Mayor Martinez asked if it was legal to offer a lease at a lower rate. Mr. Craig Tindall, City Attorney, stated that this discussion should be in Executive Session. 6 Councilmember Goulet commented on the anchor issue. He believes the Cerreta Candy Factory and Murphy's were two very different downtown anchors. He remarked on the traffic issues downtown and how they had to be very careful because the downtown area was very linear. He stated how the area was structured presented some challenges that were not seen in other cities. He explained the concept of a"live/work environment" and how it could be very crucial to the future success of the area and drive the development of other things. He stated the input they have received from the students has been very good and was excited to take the next steps with the downtown Centerline Plan. Councilmember Knaack disagreed with the scary comments about the downtown at night. She explained she works in the area and has always felt safe. She indicated that crime in the area was minimal. She remarked on the successful cities they visited and how they all had very successful business districts. She explained that the Glendale Business Alliance was trying to organize businesses; however, it was a struggle educating businesses on this concept when it was foreign to them. She indicated it was crucial to have a strong business alliance that can work on landscaping and keeping the streets clean, which attracts visitors. She remarked that Fish and Chip's downtown was open regular hours and was always packed. She stated there were a lot of positives elements in the downtown area and urged business owners to work with the Centerline Business Alliance. She stated that former Councilmember Tom Eggleston and Gail Meyers work very hard on this issue. Councilmember Lieberman commented that business owners do what they have to do to keep their businesses afloat. He stated he has been a downtown business owner for 37 years and in difficult times he had to cut rents in half just to keep tenants and rent money coming in. Mayor Scruggs commented on the Centerline Business Alliance. She stated this was a great association that comes close to the organizations seen on their tours of other cities. However, she believes business and property owners were losing interest and did not see why they should be paying fees when they have not seen anything tangible happen. She indicated that her suggestion of getting owners involved and participating in spreading the word to the community was a starting point. She believes this type of involvement will create its own excitement and spark enthusiasm and innovative ideas. She noted that people do need to see more tangible evidence of what is being planned and approved, which in turn becomes real. Councilmember Frate suggested New Town for a name since everything developed will be new with a new start. Mayor Scruggs agreed it should be something that conveys "come here", something new is happening where our future is being created as the next new frontier of Glendale. Mayor Scruggs stated everyone was excited with the Centerline Project and approved of the great progress that has been made thus far. She added that the Council appreciated all the hard work staff had done in the midst of all the other work they have to do in their departments. As there were no further comments, Mayor Scruggs adjourned the meeting. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 3:10 p.m. 7