HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-10-20 Council MinutesRECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting
BARRETT BRdTHERS - DAYTON, OHIO Form 6101
Held February 10, 2020
CALL TO ORDER
Vice Mayor De Rosa called the Monday, February 10, 2020 Regular Meeting of Dublin City
Council to order at 6:04 p.m. at the Dublin Municipal Building.
ROLL CALL
Present were Vice Mayor De Rosa, Mr. Reiner, Mr. Peterson, Ms. Fox and Ms. Alutto. (Mr.
Keeler arrived at 6:05 p.m.)
ADJOURNMENT TO EXECUTIVE SESSION
Mr. Reiner moved to adjourn to executive session at 6:05 p.m. to consider the sale or
disposition of public property and the appointment and employment of a public employee.
Mr. Peterson seconded the motion.
Vote on the motion: Mr. Reiner, yes; Ms. Fox, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes; Vice Mayor De Rosa,
yes; Mr. Peterson, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes.
The meeting was reconvened at 7:04 p.m.
Staff members present were Mr. McDaniel, Ms. Readler, Mr. Stiffler, Mr. Rogers, Chief
Paez, Mr. Earman, Mr. Hammersmith, Ms. Rauch, Ms. Burness, Ms. Husak, Ms. McQuaide
and Mr. Plouck.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Chief O'Connell, Washington Township Fire Department, led the Pledge of Allegiance.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
• Dublin Jerome Men's Golf Team State Championship
Mayor Amorose Groomes read a proclamation in honor of the many accomplishments of
championship Celtics Men's Golf Team and invited the members and coach forward to
accept it. Members include seniors Ethan Snyder and Ryan Norkin; juniors Tyler Groomes,
Logan Menning and Jake Yarbrough; sophomore Brett Podobinski; and Coach Taylor Harle.
Tuesday, February 11 was proclaimed as Dublin Jerome High School Men's Golf Team Day
in the City of Dublin!
Coach Taylor Harle commented about the hard work and dedication of these student
athletes both on the golf course and in the classroom. He thanked Council for this
recognition.
The members of the golf team introduced themselves to the audience.
• Recognition of Lifesaving Efforts at the DCRC
Mr. Earman invited staff members forward for recognition. On December 28, the Rec
Center staff members rendered lifesaving efforts to patron Tom Shelley who had collapsed
while working out at the Rec Center. Mr. Earman introduced the staff members present
who were involved in this lifesaving effort. He described the various actions of the staff
prior to arrival of the EMS from Washington Township. Their swift action, composure and
professionalism saved Mr. Shelley's life. Mr. Shelley and his family are present this
evening, as well.
Tom Shelley thanked the staff for their quick thinking and responsiveness. Absent this, he
would not have survived.
Mr. Earman cited the partnership with Washington Township Fire and Rescue that provides
training for emergency response. He introduced Chief O'Connell of Washington Township.
Chief O'Connell commented that these first responders are the heroes. While the Township
offers many CPR classes and trainings, those who step up in an emergency are the heroes.
These staff put their training to work and a life was saved. It takes courage to take action
in these situations, and he thanked them. It is important to take CPR classes and have
PulsePoint on a phone for notification in an emergency situation.
(A photo was taken of the group.)
• Five -Year Renewal of the Washington Township existing Fire Levy
Chief O'Connell stated that a levy is on the March 17 primary ballot. It is a renewal of an
existing 8.25 mill levy and does not increase taxes. They are an ISO -1 accredited
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting
BARRETT BROTHERS - DAYTON, OHIO Form 6101
Held February 10, 2020
CALL TO ORDER
Vice Mayor De Rosa called the Monday, February 10, 2020 Regular Meeting of Dublin City
Council to order at 6:04 p.m. at the Dublin Municipal Building.
ROLL CALL
Present were Vice Mayor De Rosa, Mr. Reiner, Mr. Peterson, Ms. Fox and Ms. Alutto. (Mr.
Keeler arrived at 6:05 p.m.)
ADJOURNMENT TO EXECUTIVE SESSION
Mr. Reiner moved to adjourn to executive session at 6:05 p.m. to consider the sale or
disposition of public property and the appointment and employment of a public employee.
Mr. Peterson seconded the motion.
Vote on the motion: Mr. Reiner, yes; Ms. Fox, yes; Ms. AI utto, yes; Vice Mayor De Rosa,
yes; Mr. Peterson, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes.
The meeting was reconvened at 7:04 p.m.
Staff members present were Mr. McDaniel, Ms. Readler, Mr. Stiffler, Mr. Rogers, Chief
Paez, Mr. Earman, Mr. Hammersmith, Ms. Rauch, Ms. Burness, Ms. Husak, Ms. McQuaide
and Mr. Plouck.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Chief O'Connell, Washington Township Fire Department, led the Pledge of Allegiance.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
• Dublin Jerome Men's Golf Team State Championship
Mayor Amorose Groomes read a proclamation in honor of the many accomplishments of
championship Celtics Men's Golf Team and invited the members and coach forward to
accept it. Members include seniors Ethan Snyder and Ryan Norkin; juniors Tyler Groomes,
Logan Menning and Jake Yarbrough; sophomore Brett Podobinski; and Coach Taylor Harle.
Tuesday, February 11 was proclaimed as Dublin Jerome High School Men's Golf Team Day
in the City of Dublin!
Coach Taylor Harle commented about the hard work and dedication of these student
athletes both on the golf course and in the classroom. He thanked Council for this
recognition.
The members of the golf team introduced themselves to the audience.
• Recognition of Lifesaving Efforts at the DCRC
Mr. Earman invited staff members forward for recognition. On December 28, the Rec
Center staff members rendered lifesaving efforts to patron Tom Shelley who had collapsed
while working out at the Rec Center. Mr. Earman introduced the staff members present
who were involved in this lifesaving effort. He described the various actions of the staff
prior to arrival of the EMS from Washington Township. Their swift action, composure and
professionalism saved Mr. Shelley's life. Mr. Shelley and his family are present this
evening, as well.
Tom Shelley thanked the staff for their quick thinking and responsiveness. Absent this, he
would not have survived.
Mr. Earman cited the partnership with Washington Township Fire and Rescue that provides
training for emergency response. He introduced Chief O'Connell of Washington Township.
Chief O'Connell commented that these first responders are the heroes. While the Township
offers many CPR classes and trainings, those who step up in an emergency are the heroes.
These staff put their training to work and a life was saved. It takes courage to take action
in these situations, and he thanked them. It is important to take CPR classes and have
PulsePoint on a phone for notification in an emergency situation.
(A photo was taken of the group.)
• Five -Year Renewal of the Washington Township existing Fire Levy
Chief O'Connell stated that a levy is on the March 17 primary ballot. It is a renewal of an
existing 8.25 mill levy and does not increase taxes. They are an ISO -1 accredited
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting
BARRETT BROTHERS - DAYTON, OHIO Form 6101
February 10, 2020 Page 2 of 26
Held
organization — one of three in Ohio and one of 84 in the country. They also understand
that without the support of the community and City Council, they would not be successful.
They will continue to be fiscally responsible and meet the needs of the City.
He introduced Levy Committee member Joel Campbell.
Mr. Campbell stated that when the Fire Department is needed, they are there for the
citizens. On March 17, the residents need to be there to support this levy renewal.
Mayor Amorose Groomes stated that Dublin is a grateful community to the Washington
Township Fire Department. They have done an outstanding job of providing services to
the community. Their accreditations surpass most any organization in the country and she
is confident that residents will vote in favor of this levy on March 17.
CITIZEN COMMENTS
There were no comments from citizens.
CONSENT AGENDA
• Approval of Minutes of January 21, 2020 Regular Meeting
• Approval of Minutes of January 27, 2020 Special Council Meeting
• Notice to Legislative Authority of Transfer of D5A and D6 liquor permits from Hotel
6364 Frantz OPCO LP, dba Residence Inn Cols/Dublin to Dre Reit OPCO LLC, dba
Residence Inn, 6364 Frantz Road, Dublin, Ohio.
There was no request to remove an item from the Consent Agenda. Ms. Fox asked that a
revision be made to the January 21, 2020 minutes. She stated that during Roundtable
comments, the date should read "1850's" and not "1950's."
Ms. Alutto moved to approve the actions for the three items on the Consent Agenda.
Mr. Reiner seconded the motion.
Vote on the motion: Mr. Peterson, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Vice Mayor De
Rosa, yes; Ms. Fox, yes; Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes.
INTRODUCTION /FIRST READING — ORDINANCES
Ordinance 06-20
Rezoning Approximately 3.47 Acres East of Hyland -Croy Road, South of
Mitchell -Dewitt Road from PUD, Planned Unit Development District (Oak Park,
Subarea E) to PUD, Planned Unit Development District (Oak Park, Subarea F)
for the Future Development of up to 12 Single -Family homes and 0.66 Acre of
Open Space,
Ms. Alutto introduced the Ordinance.
Ms. Husak noted this Ordinance has been recommended for approval by the Planning and
Zoning Commission who reviewed this in December. This is a request for rezoning
approximately 3-1/2 acres from a currently permitted commercial development to 12
single-family lots. She shared a slide of the site, which is located on the west side of
Hyland -Croy, to the north and south of Oak Park Boulevard — the entryway into the
neighborhood. Oak Park was zoned in 2006 from Rural to PUD. This was one of the first
conservation design developments in the City and included 50 percent open space, with
lots being clustered in the center of the site. The open space was at the outskirts of the
site of 61 acres. The site developed since 2006, and in 2017 a rezoning was approved by
Council to allow a conversion of townhomes to single-family lots. What is before Council
tonight is a conversion of the commercially zoned area to a single-family zoning.
The proposed lots are in line with those in the Oak Park subdivision as they exist today
and as they have been developed to date. The smallest lot is .16 acre and the larger lot is
.22 acres, and are in line with what exists today. Lot widths, lot depths, front yard
setbacks, read yard setbacks and side yard setbacks are also in line with what exists in
Oak Park today. Therefore, the development pattern is retained with this rezoning.
One of the discussion items during the PZC process and in several meetings with the
current residents of Oak Park relates to the ownership and maintenance of open spaces as
well as private drives that exist within the neighborhood. Depicted on the slide are the
existing private drives, which would then be part of this proposed subarea.
Architecturally, the applicant is retaining the style that exists today in Oak Park. PZC
recommended approval of this rezoning. The applicant has met some of the conditions,
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Held
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and some will be deferred to the final development plan phase. With this application, a
preliminary plat approval will be requested at the second reading.
The applicant is here tonight and has a presentation. The residents of Oak Park also have
a presentation for Council.
Chris Cline, attorney for applicant Oak Park Dublin, 300 W. Wilson Bridge Road.,
Worthin_ ton, Ohio noted he is accompanied by Linda Menerey of EMH&T. He noted Oak
Park is a conservation design subdivision, and was the first project done under that design
in Dublin.
• He shared slides depicting the original and proposed subareas. The large, dark
orange area was the commercially zoned land that was retained by the seller of the
land, who was originally a co -developer of the project. There was no control over
that land by the developer of the residential area.
• The commercially zoned land dominates the entrance to the subdivision visually
and also dominated the planning in terms of what needed to happen in order to
have the commercial develop. It has been a negative for Oak Park since the
beginning — both to the residents and to the lot sellers.
• He then shared a drawing of the roads and the reserve areas. One of the issues
they have struggled with is the cost to the residents for the maintenance of these
items. The purple areas on the slide represent the existing private roads. Those are
already in place and are not part of this rezoning application. The yellow areas are
the new private roads proposed with this rezoning. These represent 77 and 23
percent of the existing private roads as opposed to the new private roads. The
orange represents the reserves that are part of the HOA. The center one, Reserve
M is the clubhouse and formal gardens. Reserve G and L are interior open spaces.
The perimeter lots border City parkland. The plan was to have smaller internal
open spaces and those are part of the HOA and represent a maintenance cost for
the HOA.
• Under Ohio law, there is a requirement, which is also in their Declaration that an
HOA Board of Directors must study the operating and capital expenses for the
subdivision, must then budget for those and put reserves aside. This is the Ohio
Planned Communities Act, Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5312. As shown on the
pavement maintenance cost table for the private streets, some of these expenses
recur only at intervals. Between 15-25 years, the road must be rebuilt — mill and
replace. These roads are comparable to municipal standards in terms of the
roadbed, but the asphalt on the top wears and needs to be replaced. The bids
received for this work for all private streets is $117,319. This cost is amortized over
15 to 25 years, as shown on the chart. The numbers at the bottom show the cost
per month for all private streets, reserves I and J, and Reserves R and S.
Subtracting the existing streets from the total indicates that the actual reserve
requirement increases, which is less than $1.00 per lot per month.
• He shared the projected HOA costs as of January 27, 2020. The total yearly cost is
$96,263 for all of the responsibilities of the HOA. Therefore, there are not adequate
monies in the HOA to pay for that in the beginning. The developer, Oak Park
Dublin, has been paying those costs and banking the HOA dues. Currently, there is
$305,855 in the HOA account. This will help the HOA establish a reserve for the
future. Currently, there are 68 developed lots, which generates $77,000 per year of
income. With the cost of $96,,263 for maintenance as projected, there would be a
shortfall.
• He provided a summary of the project cost data. These include clubhouse expense
of $47,807; landscaping at $29,451; private road repair and maintenance at
$11,389; fencing maintenance for villa lots at $2,616; and HOA administration
expense at $5,000. Based upon the 104 lots at buildout, the revenue is projected
to be $120,000 per year.
• In terms of the criticism of lot standards, these lots at 55 feet in width have the
same minimum as Subarea B. What is proposed with the rezoning is a 55 -foot
width minimum, but only two of them are actually 55 feet. Six of them are above
60 feet in width and the other two are close to 60 feet.
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Minutes of
BARRETT BROTHFRS - DAYTON OMO
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Meeting
Form 6101
• There has been a complaint about the side yard setbacks. These are six feet, as
are all the other subareas in Oak Park. It is important to be consistent with all that
has been done previously in the subdivision. Lots are typically build right up to the
side yard setback throughout subdivisions in Dublin and elsewhere. Six feet of
setback provides 12 feet between houses, which is a typical setback.
• In terms of tree lawns, Dublin Code requires 8 feet. Along Oak Park Boulevard and
Oak Tree [gives North and South, the tree lawns are 8 feet with four -foot
sidewalks and street trees per Dublin Code. For the internal area, on the private
streets, Dublin does not have requirements for tree lawns or sidewalks.
Nonetheless, a four -foot sidewalk has been included, based on a request from PZC.
There are street trees and garages for the villa lots, and some landscaping Tong
fences. The street trees are inside the sidewalk versus being in a formal tree lawn.
The tree lawns are only the distance between the edge of the pavement and the
edge of the right-of-way.
• There is also a residual tree lawn that is outside of the zoned area (shown in black)
and inside of the pavement. There are some significant standards, although
nothing is required in that internal area. (He shared a graphic from the packet.)
• Another item raised as an issue is curb cuts on Oak Park Boulevard. This
subdivision was designed to service 40,000 square feet of retail and therefore has
many roads. Instead of 40,000 square feet of retail, the proposal is for 12 single-
family lots, which translates to an incredible stepdown of 74 percent reduction in
traffic. There are three lots that border Oak Park Boulevard. These on the west will
access off the private drive, two have to access from Oak Park Boulevard, and
there were already curb cuts planned for the commercial. Having four houses with
curb cuts on Oak Park Boulevard is not problematic from a traffic standpoint. He
shared slides depicting a home model in the prime position at the front door of Oak
Park with a side entry garage.
• From the beginning, control of the commercially zoned land has been a problem for
them. The villa rezoning was done in 201,7, converting three-story townhouses to
villas or patio homes, with garage access to the rear. At that time, his client did not
have control of the commercial land. There have been many contracts and
amendments, and in June of 2019, they secured control of that commercial land.
• They believe this rezoning application represents a tremendous benefit to the
residents of Oak Perk. They are surprised with and do not understand the
opposition they have received from the residents. They believe the rezoning will
increase existing home values. They are working to address a problem that they
did not create. They are now seeking to convert the commercial rezoned land to
residential land.
Mayor Amorose Groomes invited public testimony.
Melvin Houseman, 7134 Snowdrop Court, Oak Park, Dublin stated she represents herself
as well as the overwhelming majority of the homeowners at Oak Park, many of whom are
present tonight. Also present is Prasad Vempati, another Oak Park homeowner.
• She noted there are major concerns that the homeowners have regarding the
proposed redevelopment of the commercial lots. These include the undue burden it
will place on the HOA for the maintenance of private roads, concerns with the
configuration of the proposed redevelopment including the closeness of the homes;
the inconsistent treatment of the tree lawn area; and the driveway access to the
main boulevard.
• Regarding maintenance of the private roads, she noted this involves Reserves J
and I. and Reserves R and S. Except for the six private roads surrounding the
commercial lots, there are no other private roads in Oak Park. These private roads
were built to support the commercial use. From the beginning of the Oak Park
development, the cost of maintaining the private roads has been a concern. The
minutes from November 6, 2006 City Council hearing reflect the Mayor's concern —
indicating that maintaining roads acre an enormous expense to individual
homeowners who are already paying taxes for the purpose of roadway
maintenance. The Mayor indicated she did not understand why private roads were
Minutes of
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BARRBTT BROTHERS - DAYTON, OHIO
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February 10, 2020
Page 5 of 26
Form 6101
being built in the community in the first place. In response to Council's concern,
the attorney for the developer sent a letter to staff dated November 15, 2006
outlining three alternatives to deal with the cost of maintaining these roads. The
first alternative was for the homeowners of the townhomes and the commercial
lots to share in the maintenance costs of these roads. The second alternative
expanded the cost sharing agreement to the entire Oak Park community. The third
alternative was to change the designation of the private roads and make them
public roads. According to the attorney at the time, it was not a problem because
the roads were already built to public specifications and such a change would not
require any modifications to the site layout.
There are some items things worth noting:
• With respect to the cost-sharing alternative, the attorney said that some
arrangement will be made to ensure that the commercial property owners are
committed and able to contribute their fair share.
• If the developer had the option to pass some of this maintenance responsibility to
the City, then why did he choose the cost-sharing alternative? From the
homeowners' perspective, there must have been some benefit to the developer at
that time to choose the cost-sharing alternative.
• The attorney requested that the developer be permitted to present further details
and make a final commitment and decision about the alternative chosen during the
final development plan.
• On November 16, 2006, the City Manager sent a memo to Council members,
outlining the different proposal alternatives the developer was presenting with the
intent of finalizing the specific costs and maintenance responsibilities at the time of
final development plan. The staff was supportive of this approach and
recommended approval of the Oak Park development plan.
• She is looking at the 2006 minutes and memos because they demonstrate the
underlying circumstances by which staff and Council became comfortable with
approving the Oak Park development plan. The understanding was there would be
either a cost sharing agreement, or the roads would be converted to public roads.
• Today, based on the Oak Park Declaration, Article 5 and 7, we know which of the
three alternatives was selected — the concept of the cost sharing agreement. The
HOA would own and maintain some portion of the private roads — what is being
considered today Reserves I and J — and the HOA and the commercial lot owner
would share the maintenance responsibility of those reserves, and the commercial
lot owner would own and maintain the other portions of the private roads — those
currently being proposed as Reserves R and S. The pink areas (shown on the roads
and reserve exhibit) would have been a part of a cost sharing agreement, and the
yellow would have been completely maintained by the commercial parcel owners.
• The significance of all of this is that there is a substantial negative financial impact
on the Oak Park community. When the residents purchased their homes, there
were to be 108 members contributing to the HOA. With the rezoning of the
townhomes in 2017 and the proposal today, there will be 104. Reserves I and J
would have been subject to a cost sharing agreement. However, under the
proposal today, it would all fall under the HOA. Oak Tree Drive North and South
would have been the commercial lot owner's responsibility. Under the proposal
today, it will all be under the responsibility of the HOA.
• The consequence of all of this is there are less members contributing to the HOA;
no cost sharing agreement to offset some of the maintenance costs; and increased
maintenance obligation costs to the HOA.
• In 2017, with the rezoning of the townhome lots, the City of Dublin performed an
evaluation of the private roads and concluded that the following work would be
needed: some patchwork in one to two years at a cost of $10,,000; and a complete
repavement between 8-10 years at a cost of $120,000. These were based on City
contracted rates from 2017. Since that meeting, they have observed no work being
done on any of these roads.
• The concerns about private road maintenance were raised again by City Council
during the rezoning of the townhomes in 2017 and more recently at the PZC
hearings in August and December of 2019. The issue at the 2017 Council meetings
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was deferred because the City would have an opportunity to revisit this matter
when the final development plan for the commercial lots would come before City
Council. This is now the final development proposal for the commercialp arcel and
is the time to address the longstanding issue with respect to the maintenance of
private roads.
• In summary, the purpose of the private roads was to support the commercial use
and should now be converted to support residential use. It was never the intent of
City Council, nor the developer to place the entire burden of maintaining these
private roads on the homeowners. The proposed rezoning does not resolve any of
the maintenance concerns that have been raised consistently by the homeowners
City Council and the PZC. Maintenance of these private roads will create an undue
financial burden on the HOA.
• If Council were considering the entire Oak Park development plan today for
residential use, Council would likely raise an issue with these private roads, as the
Council did in 2006. If the developer would have proposed that plan in 2006, it
likely would have been rejected. It should be no different today. For that reason
the homeowners request that all private roads be converted to public roads.
• The developer's representative has stated in the past that the Oak Park HOA fees
are comparable to association fees paid in other communities in Dublin. In August
of 2019, the homeowners contacted other homeowner associations in Dublin to
compare the HOA fees and the benefits received in return for those fees. She
shared a summary chart of the information collected. (Distributed to Council
members.) She highlighted a few of the items.
• For Westbury, the yearly costs are $125 to maintain five acres of common land and
fencing, cul-de-sac islands and an entry sign. For Amberleigh, they pay $880 for
homes built after 2000, and that includes a clubhouse, pool and tennis courts. For
Tartan Ridge, they pay $800, primarily to maintain 46 acres of landscaping. For
Muirfield, depending upon the home valuation, a $500,,000 home value has an
Association fee of $1,100 and they have two heated pools, a splash park, hot tub,
tennis and pickle ball courts, 29 miles of bike trails, two playgrounds, nature
preserve, golf course and upkeep of 200 common ground areas, including 14
ponds and two gazebos.
• Oak Park's current HOA fees are $1,,152 and they have four acres of landscaping to
maintain, a clubhouse and some ponds. Oak Park fees compared to the benefits
received compared to other communities and benefits receive are already high.
• In terms of the projected HOA cost chart submitted by the developer with the
rezoning application, the forecasted costs are not all inclusive. There are many
inconsistencies in this chart and the management company budgeted items.
Missing from the chart are a number of items, which she outlined in detail.
• The reserve funds were not intended to absorb completely the cost of maintaining
six private roads. It is unfair to assume that these funds are available for this
purpose. There are a number of outstanding maintenance issues currently at Oak
Park, and that is what the reserve funds should be used to cover.
• Other issues she has mentioned are the closeness of the homes, the inconsistent
treatment of the tree lawn area and the driveway access to and from the main
boulevard.
• According to the original development plan, the park homes on the periphery of
the community were to be larger homes. These were to be 2,500 to 3,800 square
feet on lots of 60, 70 or 80 feet of width. The village homes in Subarea B were to
be smaller homes of 2,000 to 2,800 square feet on smaller lots with a width of 55
or 60 feet. According to the developer's representative, buyers of the village lots
did not want the smaller homes. Since the development standards did not explicitly
restrict the larger homes, the developer accommodated the demands of the buyers
and built the larger homes in Subarea B. The result is that a number of the
Subarea B village homes were built right up to the boundaries of the permitted
building area. These homes only have six-foot side yard setbacks. As a
consequence, the homes appear to be tightly packed. She encouraged Council
members to come to the community and view these. She shared a screen shot of
the closeness of the homes in this area. This problem was recreated when the
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Form 6101
rezoning of the townhomes was done. There are homes very close to each other.
Because these restrictions were not placed in the development standards, the
developer could build larger homes in these areas.
[Mayor Amorose Groomes asked Ms. Houseman to bring closure to her comments that
relate specifically to the rezoning proposed tonight, given the extended time that has been
allowed for her testimony as representing the homeowners.]
• Ms. Houseman stated that the rezoning will recreate what has occurred in 2017,
and that is why she is sharing the visual. It is important to look to the history to
see evidence of what does not work and why the problem should not be recreated
for this area.
• She shared pictures of examples of the current conditions of what has been built
under the six-foot side yard setback for homes. The City could require that this
setback minimum be eight feet. The fact that the rest of the Oak Park community
has some parcels with a 55 -foot lot width or a side yard setback of 6 feet should
not be the only determining factors regarding the closeness of these homes. This
opportunity should be taken not to repeat the same mistakes. More importantly,
addressing this concern will not have a negative impact upon the number of homes
that the developer can build in this area.
• Regarding the inconsistent treatment of the tree lawn area, every area in Oak Park
including the common areas have a tree lawn area of approximately 7 feet
between the sidewalk and the curb. The proposed rezoning anticipates virtually no
tree lawn area along the private streets. This is not consistent with the
development character of Oak Park. There is opportunity to have a tree lawn area
in the commercial lots that are consistent with Oak Park if the developer is willing
to reconfigure the lots and use some of the greenspace.
• The second concern is the responsibility of maintenance for the tree lawn areas,
particularly in front of the homes. The developer proposes that the HOA maintain
the tree lawn area directly in front of the homes facing Hyland -Croy. This is not
consistent with the rest of the community.
• The third concern is the driveway access to the main boulevard. Renderings show
that at least two homes will have driveway access to the main boulevard and the
development text suggests that other homes could also have additional driveways
exiting to the main boulevard. The main boulevard is narrow due to the islands in
the middle. It poses a challenge for future homeowners who desire to back into
their garages. The islands are an important design element, creating a grand
entrance for Oak Park. Reducing the size of the islands will not be aesthetically
pleasing. There is an opportunity to reconfigure the homes, utilizing the green
space, so that no driveways lead to the main boulevard.
The summary of the homeowners' requests is as follows:
1. To have all lot sizes a minimum of 60 feet in width or the alternate side yard
setback of 8 feet;
2. Keep all tree lawn area consistent to a minimum of 7 feet throughout the
commercial lots;
3. Have the maintenance responsibility of the tree lawn area in front of the home to
be maintained by the homeowner;
4. Remove all driveway access to the main boulevard.
These are the requests of the homeowners. The developer today has full control of the
commercial lots, the private roads, the townhome lots rezoned in 2017, and the HOA.
There are alternatives for the developer to consider as part of this rezoning to address all
of these issues without reducing the number of homes the developer is proposing. The
developer could pass along some of those costs to address their concerns to the 32 homes
that will be built at the entrance to the Oak Park community. The homeowners strongly
believe that if the developer addresses these concerns, this will make the community
better and more desirable for potential buyers. Unfortunately, the developer has made it
very clear that he is unwilling to entertain any of the changes to the proposed
development plan. For that reason, 94 percent of the Oak Park homeowners do not
support the rezoning of the commercial lots as proposed by the applicant. She shared a
petition from the homeowners with Council.
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Ms. Houseman stated this is the final opportunity to do what is right for the community.
The Oak Park homeowners urge the City Council to reject the proposed rezoning, to
consider closely the impact this proposed rezoning will have on the rest of the Oak Park
community and reject it.
There was no further public testimony.
Mayor Amorose Groomes invited Council discussion and questions.
Form 6101
Ms. Alutto asked how often the developer and the homeowners met to discuss the
concerns regarding this particular rezoning.
Prasad Vempati, 7031 Greenland Place, Oak Park responded that in August of 2019, the
PZC directed that the developer's representatives and the HOA should meet to discuss the
proposed plan. After multiple weeks, the HOA took the initiative to contact the developer's
representative to meet and one two-hour meeting took place. They tried to address some
of the concerns, but wanted to make sure there was a channel to reach out to the actual
owner of the Hallmark Properties — the Oak Park Dublin LLC — to have a more fruitful
conversation. That part of the conversation never occurred. As part of the meeting with
the representative of the developer, it was clear that there was a "take it or leave it"
proposal and nothing could be done.
Mayor Amorose Groomes summarized that there was only one meeting between the
developer's representative and the HOA representatives.
Mr. Peterson asked staff about the two new open space areas. Did the City require those,
or were those proposed by the developer?
Ms. Husak stated that they are in general a result of how the lots are arranged on those
two squares. It is not a requirement per se that they be open spaces.
Mr. Peterson noted he was more compelled by the argument by Mayor Amorose Groomes
that these same standards were found throughout the single-family development.
However, he is somewhat persuaded by this argument that maybe problems have been
revealed by those developments — that two wrongs do not make a right — and we should
not repeat something that was wrong. Is there adequate space, if the two open spaces
were removed, to address these concerns?
Ms. Husak responded staff had that conversation with representatives from the
neighborhood. They visited the site and viewed the concerns about the proximity of the
houses to one another. That discussion did come up in terms of eliminating this open
space and giving the lots a little more room. The problem is that all of the lots surrounding
these open spaces are alley loaded and have rear access. For a lot fronting that area, it
would actually be looking at the rear -loaded garage. It therefore became clear it is not an
option in terms of what surrounds those open spaces.
Mr. Peterson stated that the houses could be smaller, though, correct?
Ms. Husak responded there is no requirement that the houses be of a certain size. The
requirement is that they fit on the lot and meet the setback requirements of six-foot side
yard, which exists in this neighborhood and many other Dublin neighborhoods.
Mr. Peterson stated he understands the private versus the public nature of the road is not
necessarily at issue with this application, but it is intertwined with going forward in this
way. His understanding is that a road built to public standards and private standards are
two different standards.
Ms. Husak responded there is more involved with public roads, as they are platted and
they have a certain right-of-way width required. These roads as they exist today do not
meet those requirements.
Mr. Peterson asked if the cost to replace the current private road with a public standard
road is known.
Mr. Cline offered to respond.
Mayor Amorose Groomes stated that Engineering can address this question.
i Mr. Peterson asked if this is even feasible to do.
Mr. Hammersmith stated that roads R and S, which are 800 feet in length, if removed and
reconstructed to the public standard is estimated at a cost of $500,000, give or take. This
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Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting
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Held
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depends upon whether some of the storm sewer can be salvaged and whether the road
base can be reused. This is only for R and S, and does not include I and ] and the rest of
the structure.
Mr. Reiner noted that it was stated that the roadways were built to City standards.
Mr. Hammersmith responded that it depends upon the component referenced. The road
base itself and the asphalt pavement was built in strength to a City standard, but City
standard is not inverted crown. It is not type 6 curb -- a combination curb and gutter is
required by the City. To indicate they are built to a public standard could include one
element, but not all elements.
Mr. Peterson asked if it is the case that these two areas, when intended to be purely
commercial, were to pay for the two private roads or was the cost to be passed to all of
Oak Park for those two portions.
Mr. Cline responded that the Declaration referred to does not include any of the
commercial land. There was an aspirational statement that there would be cost sharing,
but that did not include the developer of the commercial land. He was not a party to that.
He could justifiably have said he will maintain R and S, but R and S are not all of those
private roads — just the portion in front of the subareas proposed for rezoning today.
There could have been a cost sharing arrangement, but that was not guaranteed and
there is no commitment to that commercial land whatsoever and it is not part of the
Declaration.
Mr. Peterson noted that the area marked in purple of the slide was agreed to be covered
by all of the houses in the development.
Mr. Cline responded the commercial was not part of that — that has always been part of
the HOA responsibilities.
Mr. Peterson stated that what is new is answering the question of who will share in that
cost sharing. The applicant desires that this be the entire development.
Mr. Cline responded that it is a very small number, as he has testified. The cost for the
HOA to maintain all of the private roads is $7-8 per month, and adding this portion raises
the cost a maximum of $.65 per lot.
Mr. Peterson stated that expectations are important. When buyers purchased a single-
family lot and reviewed their documents, would they have expected to have been charged
a portion of maintenance for what exists now — the purple shaded private roads?
Mr. Cline responded that the Declaration is very clear that it is an HOA responsibility. It
lists Reserves I and I as being a shared maintenance responsibility in the residential
Declaration.
Mr. Peterson asked if there is any ability to fix any of those issues and consume that
common area into the other lots to address any of that.
Mr. Cline responded that at the outset, they believed that City Council, PZC and staff
would want the same kind of interior open spaces, as otherwise the interior lots would
have nothing next to their lots. For that reason, they included that. Is it possible to
redesign or reconfigure those lots? He does not believe there would be a lot of benefit
from that. The lots could be made larger, using up the open space and reducing the
maintenance costs, but it seems a disservice to the residents to do so.
Ms. Fox asked about lot coverage. What is the maximum lot coverage allowed? In
reviewing the development standards of Subarea B -- the village homes -- when window
wells and air conditioners are added, there is a caveat that the setback needs to be eight
feet. This is in the original development text. It seems that is not incorporated in this text.
In the original Subarea B villages, there is a maximum lot coverage of 60 percent.
Ms. Husak responded the maximum lot coverage is 60 feet, and the 6-8 foot requirement
is retained if there are encroachment situations.
Ms. Fox stated that there was not a maximum square footage for a house. The village
houses were to be smaller to be appropriate for the lot, but larger village houses were
built, creating these issues. Does Planning staff believe there should be a maximum square
footage for these village homes?
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Held
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Ms. Husak responded that she has not seen a square footage limitation in all of her
experience with the City. The square footage of a house is determined by lot coverage and
setbacks.
Ms. Fox commented regarding the original development agreement or universal
agreement on page 28. It speaks of Subarea B and that the maintenance of all
landscaping for individual lots within Subarea B shall be the responsibility of a forced and
funded homeowners association. Owners of lots within Subarea B shall pay a fee for this
service, in addition to the homeowners association dues that will apply uniformly
throughout the development. Therefore, in regard to the question raised about the
landscape piece along the frontage and whether that should be the homeowners
responsibility, it appears that it fell upon a separate entity. It is under "surcharge for
universal maintenance." Another item to note, when this was originally zoned, there were
36 townhomes. It was rezoned to have 20 villa homes, which drops 16 homeowners out of
the pool of contributors to the HOA.
Mr. Cline responded to the question about maintenance. The tree lawn, which is in front of
the homes that border City streets is not maintained by the City although the City owns it.
People take care of their own grass in the tree lawn. It would be similar in this case, that
people cut the grass in the tree lawn. There is no statement in the development text that
the HOA would bear this responsibility.
Ms. Fox stated that was apparently a misunderstanding.
Ms. De Rosa noted she is reviewing the Declaration of the cost sharing agreement,
specifically the paragraph that speaks to that cost sharing. It reads, "Except as herein
provided, the cost of maintaining the private drives shall be shared by the Association and
the Reserves of A and D." This indicates the costs would be shared by that commercial
owner.
Mr. Cline pointed out that was only the residents' Declaration that had this language. The
commercial developer was never a party to it and did not sign onto it. It was aspirational
to work out a cost sharing agreement, but that did not occur.
Ms. De Rosa stated that a buyer reading this would understand that was the intent.
Mr. Keeler noted that the HOA has reserves of $305,000.
Mr. Cline agreed that is correct. It is being managed by a third party.
Mr. Keeler stated that there were references made to other HOAs in the community
regarding their fees -- ranging from $50/year to $1152/year in this neighborhood. He
poses the question of whether anyone has evaluated how much each household should be
paying. The $305,,000 seems a high number for the reserves. Perhaps the residents are
already paying too much in fees.
Mr. Cline responded that under normal circumstances, the developer would not be carrying
the maintenance burden. At the time the first two houses were sold, the Association could
not maintain the nearly $100,000 of maintenance fees. The developer has continued to
pay all of those expenses that would otherwise be borne by the HOA and has been
banking the monies in the reserves. Fairly soon, the developer will likely tell Myers Real
Estate to proceed with setting aside the reserves and allocating this money into the
various categories. The major maintenance cost relates to the clubhouse, which includes a
fitness center, meeting rooms, gathering spaces, etc. The clubhouse expenses are $47,000
per year, and the taxes alone for the clubhouse are $20,000.
Mr. Keeler stated that perhaps the starting point may be flawed at $1,152/year per
resident.
Mr. Cline responded that the projected costs are numbers that are being spent currently
by the property manager, and the property manager may be able to provide services more
cost effectively than the residents may be able to do.
Mr. Keeler stated that the total remains about $100,000 per year and there is $300,000 in
reserves at this time.
Mr. Cline responded that per state law, the reserves are to be reviewed annually. When
the last lot is sold, and the residents are in charge, the HOA can determine the appropriate
level of reserves to cover the expenses.
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Minutes of _ Dublin City Council Meeting
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Form 6101
Ms. Alutto stated that, effectively, the longer that turnover is delayed, the larger the
reserves become as the developer is currently paying for certain types of maintenance.
Mr. Cline responded that in the spring, they plan to perform work on the private roads and
some of those funds will come from the HOA funds. The developer is acting as the HOA at
this point until the last lot is sold. Some of the pavement repairs will be paid for by the
developer as they are in Reserves R and S. Others will come out of the HOA funds.
Ms. Alutto stated that, given the vast majority of neighborhood residents who desire some
reconfiguration of the two greenspaces, she cannot believe some option cannot be
identified to resolve the issues. She understands the difficulty of addressing all of the
issues of the homeowners, but there should be the ability to reconfigure this greenspace.
Mr. Cline stated that if the goal is to eliminate the greenspaces, that can be done.
Mr. Cline added that in terms of resident meetings, prior to filing a rezoning application,
they called a meeting with the residents for 2-3 hours at the clubhouse. The meeting went
well, and the residents were pleased to hear of the elimination of the commercial area.
After that time, opposition arose. The first demand was related to areas outside of the
rezoning area, namely to eliminate all of the private streets. That was not possible, but he
never stated this was a "take it or leave it" proposal. However, there was no flexibility in
terms of what they could do and not do. Generally, this is a fair proposal and meets all the
development standards of the community.
Ms. Alutto stated she understands that, but the setbacks were not ones the neighborhood
liked. There are lessons to be learned from previous experience.
Ms. De Rosa commented in regard to the rezoning change from townhomes to villa homes
about two years ago. How many of those villa homes have been sold?
Mr. Cline responded that the development has not moved forward. When the resident
opposition surfaced and it appeared the commercial area would not go away, nothing
moved forward with the villa homes. If this rezoning effort is not successful, the only
option is to develop under the existing commercial zoning.
Ms. De Rosa asked for confirmation that the developer now fully controls the commercial
properties without contingencies.
Mr. Cline responded that they do, but there are some enduring financial obligations
associated with it.
Ms. De Rosa stated that Oak Park has been under development for 14 years. Of the
promised 100 plus homes, 72 are occupied, with 40 left to be sold.
Mr. Cline stated that of the original 72, 68 homes have been built.
Ms. De Rosa stated that 68 residents have been paying for the maintenance for the
subdivision for a period of time. Two years ago, the change was made regarding
townhomes to villa homes, but nothing has developed. It seems there is an opportunity to
step back and ask if there is no commercial development, are the private roads needed at
all.
Mr. Cline responded the private roads cannot be removed, as they are the access for the
villas that replaced the townhomes.
Ms. De Rosa stated that the villas have not yet been built, however. She simply recognizes
the amount of time that has passed and there is now an opportunity to step back and look
at possible reconfigurations. The private roads are part of this discussion as they impact
the finances of the residents over the long term. She would love to see some of the
opportunities discussed and explored.
Mr. Cline responded that if this rezoning does not go forward, the villas will develop, but
perhaps at a less expensive range. People will then view the garage and back door of the
villas.
Ms. De Rosa stated she understands the situation, but there is opportunity to work with
the residents on a solution.
Mayor Amorose Groomes asked staff for the name of the original developer of Oak Park.
Ms. Husak responded that for the residential portions of Oak Park, they were owned and
developed by a company out of New Jersey.
Mr. Cline clarified that there was a name change, but the company remains the same for
the residential portion. His client was the original developer of the residential portion.
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Held
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Form 6101
Mayor Amorose Groomes asked if the rezoning of the townhomes to villa homes was also
done by the same applicant. She served on PZC at that time.
Mr. Cline stated he represented the same applicant on that rezoning.
Mayor Amorose Groomes stated that, essentially, there has been one developer that has
come forward on four separate occasions to develop this land.
Mr. Cline pointed out this was only for the residential portion of Oak Park. The commercial
portion is totally separate. There was HC Associates as the landowner and initial
developer; they then made an internal family arrangement that split off the commercial
land to ]SDI Dublin, Inc.
Mayor Amorose Groomes stated that, currently, the ownership of the commercial, the
townhomes and the residential units is one entity.
Mr. Cline agreed that is correct.
Mayor Amorose Groomes referenced a slide of the development to describe the proposed
homes and potential access to the homes via public or private roads.
Mr. Cline stated that the villa homes are 104 -foot deep lots — patio homes with rear
access.
Mayor Amorose Groomes stated that if the goal tonight is to solve a problem that is
complex, expensive and places a burden on the residents, what is being proposed
constitutes spot zoning -- taking these small parcels and rezoning only these small parcels.
However, the City has never engaged in spot zoning — the City zones in context. The
townhomes were approved in reliance upon the commercial development and the need for
a transition from single-family homes into the commercial spaces. But things have
changed and it is important to look at this collectively. There is nothing existing today
except some private roads installed and in need of some repair. She understands that the
rezoning application is for only the two squares of land, but she suggests not spot zoning
this land. Context and history matter, and change of use matters. We do have an
opportunity to create a much better product for the residents. She cannot support spot
zoning for this small space that will have a profound impact on the entire community.
There is now one owner of the parcels and a chance to do it right. Alleys have never been
well received in this community and are not something she will support. The question for
the applicant is what he would like Council to do with this application.
Mr. Cline responded that this rezoning is set for public hearing in two weeks. He cannot
speak for his client, who directs his actions. The client has been emphatic that they will
not abandon the approved villa/patio home zoning because it is a good product in a good
market. He will convey to his client what has been discussed tonight, but will not
presuppose their response.
Ms. Alutto asked if there is a way to have the types of products desired while addressing
some of the issues raised tonight. Perhaps looking at rezoning the entire area versus only
this portion, and looking to resolve all of the issues including the public roads.
Mr. Cline responded that a large amount of investment has been made in the rezoning to
the villa homes. There was a three-way contract involved, commitments made and
contractual requirements have been fulfilled. To a significant degree, that constrains what
can be done today. Rezonings are costly. One of the reasons the commercial could not
develop was because they owed the residential developer $1.8 million for their share of
the infrastructure. Those two commercial pieces also owed HC Associates about $750,000.
These factors prevented to some degree -the commercial portion being marketable. Those
mortgages have both been wiped away now, and that commercial is much more viable
than it was previously. Absent this rezoning moving forward, the commercial zoning in
place includes the permitted uses in the Community Commercial category and allows auto -
oriented commercial uses as conditional uses.
Mayor Amorose Groomes stated that this Ordinance is scheduled for a second reading on
February 24. The applicant has heard the input from Council and the direction they would
like to see moving forward. She would expect that the applicant would have substantive
conversations between now and the next hearing.
Minutes of
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
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Meeting
BARRETT BROTHERS - DAYTON, OHIO Form 6101
Held
February 10, 2020 Page 13 of 26
Mayor Amorose Groomes stated that the Ordinance is scheduled for second reading/public
hearing on February 24. It is possible that the applicant may request an extension of time
to address issues. Staff will inform the HOA leadership of any change to the anticipated
hearing schedule.
Ordinance 07-20
Rezoning with Preliminary Development Plan of +/- 24 Acres from PUD,
Planned Unit Development District (Tartan Ridge, Subareas D1, E and F) to
PUD, Planned Unit Development District (Tartan Ridge Subarea F) for the
Future Development of Up To 56 Single -Family Homes and 7.9 Acres of Open
Space, The Site is North of McKitrick Road and East of Hyland -Croy Road. (Case
19-084Z/PDP)
Ms. Alutto introduced the Ordinance.
Ms. Husak stated this is a rezoning request for approximately 24 acres within the Tartan
Ridge neighborhood. She shared an aerial of the site at the corner of McKitrick and
Hyland -Croy Roads. It is fairly vacant at this time, but there is a green silo on the site and
a stormwater management pond that is being used currently as part of Tartan Ridge and
will be enlarged with this application. She shared a view of the entire Tartan Ridge
neighborhood, which was zoned in 2007 and is about 190 acres. It was zoned during the
time that Oak Park was zoned and this area was slated for commercial development as
well as some townhome units. With this proposal tonight, all of those uses would change
to single-family residential. There are 56 lots proposed at a density of 2.3 units per acre,
and 7.5 acres of open space is proposed, mainly along the Hyland -Croy and McKitrick
frontage and the stormwater management pond. The applicant has been working with
staff and has also meet with the HOA leadership and adjacent residents. The proposal is
for an empty nester market type of home — patio homes. She shared details, noting that
the applicant is continuing some of the standards that make Tartan Ridge a unique
neighborhood, including pillars at the end of driveways and hedge treatment along the
frontages of the homes. There is also a matrix of where side -loaded garages or court -
loaded garages could be utilized within this proposal. Staff has also worked with the
applicant and their architects on continuing that architectural style that is unique to Tartan
Ridge. They have proposed some sample elevations. The pond will include amenities — an
overlook with seating areas and a gazebo. There were discussions between the applicant,
staff and the PZC in terms of maintenance and how that will be handled in this area. The
applicant is proposing to have a sub association, but also be part of the overall Tartan
Ridge Association. This particular amenity would be maintained by the Overlook
Association.
PZC recommended approval to Council at their December meeting. Staff has been working
with the applicant to ensure they have fulfilled the conditions that could be met prior to
tonight's hearing. There are a couple items that will be addressed with the final
development plan. She offered to respond to questions.
Mayor Amorose Groomes invited the applicant to present.
Kevin McCauley, 6689 Dublin Center Drive, stated he is present on behalf of the ownership
group, Stavroff Land and Development. With him are Gary Smith, G2 Planning & Design;
Jim Ohlin, Romanelli & Hughes; and Brad Schoch, architect of record for the project.
Stavroff has been part of the Tartan Ridge project since the beginning — assembling the
land, zoning the property, developing the property and marketing the retail portion of the
property over the past 12 years. The property was zoned in 2007 for 68,500 square feet of
retail; 24 town homes; and five single-family lots. Primarily, they were working on
marketing the retail for the past 10-12 years. They have learned that retail is just not right
for this property at this time. They worked with residents, HOA reps, staff, Council
members and PZC members to determine what product would work in this location. They
believe that what is proposed meets the concerns they have heard. They did survey
residents of Tartan Ridge to understand what they want to see in the community. They
learned that the majority of the residents did not want the retail. What is being proposed
tonight are 56 patio homes, with the elimination of 68,500 square feet of retail, 24
townhomes and five lots. This proposal removes an extra turn lane, reducing infrastructure
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Held
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costs for the residents. Stavroff is proud to bring this project forward as part of the
community.
Form 6101
Gary Smith, G2 Planning & Design noted that they are asking for Council's consideration in
replacing that 68,500 square feet of retail with an additional 27 homes for a total of 56
homes. The intent is to develop a high quality, single-family, empty -nester community.
This is a product designed to be highly compatible with the existing residential component
of Tartan Ridge and which fills a growing demand for housing that caters to a high end,
empty -nester buyer. The target market for Romanelli & Hughes in this product are people
moving out of an existing single-family home and desiring an empty -nester home in the
same community where they have lived. The proposal would incorporate nearly all of the
architectural requirements from the original Tartan Ridge zoning, with the exception of the
items that relate to the two-story product. This is a one-story product with no stairs aside
from a bonus room access. The landscape and streetscape requirements from the original
Tartan Ridge development will also be incorporated to blend this seamlessly with the
existing development patterns. The Tartan Ridge columns and hedges are included in this
upscale, walkable development that utilizes those traditional neighborhood development
principles embodied in Tartan Ridge. All driveways and private sidewalks will be brick
pavers, and the community will include some large setbacks along McKitrick and Hyland -
Croy. Those setbacks will include a considerable amount of mounding and landscaping, a
variety of evergreen, deciduous and ornamental trees. The site itself is somewhat
challenging, as it is long and linear. The existing pond will be enlarged to serve some
additional capacity for the development. The existing Brenham Way defines the eastern
boundary of the site. In the neighborhood meetings, they learned that the residents did
not want any new homes fronting on Brenham Way, especially across from the existing
houses. That forced the layout of the site as it is now with the blocks turned
perpendicular. Public sidewalks are included throughout the development, which has public
streets. Those public streets will connect all of the buyers in the Overlook to the
greenspace network of Tartan Ridge as well as along McKitrick to the School and Hyland -
Croy. A community overlook shelter will be installed as part of the development, and will
include a fireplace and seating areas for the residents of the development. Floor plans will
be offered in two basic configurations: a traditional patio home with patio in the rear and
front -facing garage; and a courtyard type home where the garage is turned to the side.
Setbacks will be varied throughout the development. The build -to lines will be between 15
to 25 feet, allowing architecture to be closer to the road and creating some varied distance
to the road for various product. All of the homes within the Overlook will be part of the
overall Tartan Ridge HOA. The overall HOA will take care of the maintenance of all of the
open space, with the exception of the Overlook itself. A sub association will also be formed
and will take care of the condo -type maintenance — mowing of the yards, snow removal,
etc. for the Overlook residents. Architecture will be European country, Midwestern
vernacular that is common throughout the Tartan Ridge development. The last item of
note is they have incorporated a number of guest parking spots, parallel parking spots,
along with the required cluster mailbox units for all new residential. They have pull -off
parking associated with those at the end of each block, and each is within a short walking
distance of the residences served. He offered to respond to questions.
Ms. Fox stated that PZC reviewed this rezoning as well as the Oak Park rezoning. This
particular rezoning was supported by the residents who came forward. She commended
the developer for the many conversations they had with the residents during the process
and the willingness to listen to their feedback. She was very pleased with the cooperation
the developer and the residents exhibited in this rezoning application. PZC was quite
complimentary about the proposal and felt this was a good plan.
Ms. Alutto stated that in the PZC minutes, she read about the possibility for additional
shared -use path connections. This will provide an opportunity for some of those.
Mr. Smith responded that all of the frontage of McKitrick and Hyland -Croy were to have
that shared -use path, but because the commercial languished, that has not happened.
Those connections will be made with this development.
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Minutes of MeetingDublin City Council
BARRETT BROTHERS - DAYTON, OHIO Form 6101
February 10, 2020 Page 15 of 26
Held
Ms. De Rosa asked about the setbacks from Hyland -Croy Road — are those 100 feet?
Mr. Smith responded that there is 10 feet of right-of-way, so the setback is 90 feet to the
lot line. With the additional 25 -foot rear setback, it is approximately 115 from the back of
the homes to the right-of-way of Hyland -Croy.
Ms. De Rosa commented that in driving on Hyland -Croy on the east side, a more rural
feeling has been maintained because of the setbacks of the homes. Is the intent to have
some continuity in the look and flow of that?
Mr. Smith responded that the setback is fairly large and generally consistent with other
areas up and down Hyland -Croy. They have incorporated an extensive amount of
mounding of up to 4-6 feet, depending on the width of the easements.
Mayor Amorose Groomes stated it appears to be consistent with the homes immediate to
the north on the image shown.
Ms. De Rosa stated it is important to have that feel, even though the area is no longer
rural. Who owns the retention pond?
Ms. Husak responded it is a City -owned reserve to be maintained by the HOA.
Mr. Reiner stated the architecture is very nice. The site plan, however, could have been
more creative in the layout of the homes to avoid a grid of houses locked into each other.
Mr. Smith stated it is a patio home community and is set up to be similar to developments
like Epcon, but on a nicer scale. The buyers want small lots and nice interior spaces. The
site plan itself was very challenging, as not being able to turn houses toward Brenham
Way dictated the layout of the streets.
Mayor Amorose Groomes asked about the architecture of the homes that front Brenham
Way. Will the sides of those residential units be treated differently?
Mr. Smith responded affirmatively, noting there are requirements for all the sides of all of
those homes. Every corner that is visible to the outside will be treated with additional
architectural detail.
Mayor Amorose Groomes asked if all of the driveways have the capacity to store a car
clear of the sidewalk.
Mr. Smith responded affirmatively. The reason the setbacks are staggered is to allow for
the two product types of homes. All of the houses with a front facing garage will have a
minimum of 20 feet from the sidewalk to the face of the garage. They are allowing for the
rest of the body of the house to project forward of that garage line from an architectural
standpoint. The side load has the accommodation for the car parking as well.
Mayor Amorose Groomes asked staff if the required setbacks needed for any
improvements along Hyland -Croy in the future have been secured.
Ms. Husak responded affirmatively, noting that is part of the setback requirement as the
roundabout is to be constructed at McKitrick and Hyland -Croy.
Mayor Amorose Groomes asked if there is adequate setback for a perhaps boulevarded
street that may be in place in the future.
Ms. Husak responded affirmatively.
Mr. Reiner stated that was his question, as well.
Ms. Husak responded that the setback is 90 feet as previously stated. It is adequate to
accommodate a boulevard.
There was no public testimony offered regarding the Ordinance.
There will be a second reading/public hearing at the February 24 Council meeting.
Mayor Amorose Groomes noted she will recuse herself from Ordinance 34-19, as her
family members are employed at the Dublin Chamber of Commerce. (She left the Council
Chamber.)
Vice Mayor De Rosa presided in her absence.
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Form 6101
TABLED/ POSTPONED ITEM
Ordinance 34-19
Authorizing the City Manager to Execute a Lease Agreement for a Term of Five
Years with the Dublin Chamber of Commerce, Inc. for the Property Located at
129 South High Street,
Mr. McDaniel stated that the Dublin Chamber of Commerce lease agreement for the City -
owned property at 129 S. High Street expired in October of 2018. Since the first reading of
this ordinance in 2019, staff and the Chamber have continued to discuss the lease terms.
The lease in the packet reflects the results of that discussion. He summarized the changes:
1. Regarding facility renovation, the Chamber desires that the existing facility be
renovated in a fashion different from what was presented last June. Given the
Chamber's changing membership and the membership needs, the Chamber has
determined that the floor plan to accommodate its office operations, meeting space
and networking space is critical to its mission. Attached to the lease are exhibits —
one shows the floor plan and one breaks out the cost estimates relative to the
change of the floor plan.
2. A summary of the previous proposed improvements versus what is proposed now
was included in the packet. The fundamental change was that initially, the City's
cost for the improvements totaled about $147,000 and the Chamber's portion was
$68,000. With the revisions, the City's costs would be $335,,000 and the Chamber's
portion would be $115,000. There is a breakdown of the proposed improvements.
3. As to the proposed changes to the lease rate, the base rate of $14 per square foot,
reduced to $9.80 per square foot continue to apply for the reasons outlined. The
term of the lease has changed to a total of 20 years — 10 years with two additional
five-year terms. The first five years of the total lease is a flat rate of $2,450 per
month. Years 6-10, 11-15 and 16-20 all have a two percent increase per year
throughout the remainder of the lease.
4. This altogether reflects a total term of 20 years in which all extensions as proposed
are at the Chamber's discretion.
5. Council and staff agree that the Chamber provides a valuable service to the
business community and their efforts are integral to the City's economic
development efforts. Their services are also significantly aligned to and are
supportive of the City's economic development efforts, particularly as it relates to
business retention, expansion and workforce development. Staff and the Chamber
have been discussing ways to better tie and leverage the Chamber's activities,
programs and engagements with those of the City's Economic Development staff's
efforts. Staff recommends a separate memorandum of understanding between the
City and the Chamber to ensure the alignment of these efforts. Staff is currently
discussing a review of the MOU proposal made by the Chamber to the City and will
bring that to Council at a later date.
6. The Chamber further requested that history regarding the lease arrangements
between the Chamber and the City be memorialized as part of the information
provided to Council in this memo. Staff included a summary of the Chamber's
perspective on the lease history, as well as the City's perspective on the lease
history.
7. Staff recommends approval of Ordinance 34-19. Assuming Council desires to
approve the Ordinance, the title of the Ordinance should be amended to eliminate
the language of "five-year term."
8. He added that the funding for the renovation of the Chamber building, should
Council choose to undertake it, was not included in the 2020-2024 CIP but could be
appropriated from the unappropriated fund balance of the CIP Tax Fund in a future
supplemental appropriation. The fund currently has sufficient balance to support
that additional appropriation, if Council chooses to do so.
Should Council approve this Ordinance, staff would begin planning efforts for these
improvements with the Chamber immediately after its effective date in 30 days. He offered
to respond to questions, and noted that Chamber representatives are present as well.
Vice Mayor De Rosa invited Chamber representatives the opportunity to comment.
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Form 6101
Scott Ester),, Board President, Dublin Chamber of Commerce noted he is a senior advisor
with OhioHealth in Dublin. This year, the Chamber celebrates 45 years of service to Dublin
and its business community. Since 1975, a strong partnership has been nurtured with the
then -village and now City of Dublin. They appreciate the relationship with the City Council
and City staff. He noted that in the audience tonight are some Chamber Board members
including Scott Arthur of IGS Energy; Bill Andrews of Andrews Architecture; Kent Weakley,
Nationwide Children's Hospital; Jennifer Miller, D.D.S.; Kim Pilkington, PNC Bank; Alicia
Nesline Shaw of Carlile Patchen & Murphy; and Yoshihiro Hidaka, Hidaka USA, Inc.
He provided a PowerPoint that details shared goals and the ways the Chamber's mission
supports the City new economic development strategy. He highlighted the following:
• Business growth and expansion. The Chamber offers business professionals
opportunities to come together to collaborate, network and grow their businesses.
They visit businesses each week and offer their assistance. Their friendship,
support and referral network provided by the Chamber and fellow business owners
are invaluable to members of this community. The Chamber helps to facilitate
these relationships by hosting more than 100 gatherings a year with over 5,000
business professionals participating.
• Community Development and Business Attraction. Entrepreneurs, small business
owners and those looking to open new businesses in Dublin call and or stop by the
City's office daily. Chamber staff members welcome them to the community and
provide guidance on local resources available to help them get started.
• Ribbon -cutting events. There have been nine such events year to date for
businesses in Dublin.
• Workforce development assistance through its leadership development track.
Investing in the continuing education of employees results in increased office
productivity, efficiency and morale while increasing employee retention rates.
• More than 100 individuals graduate each year from a Chamber leadership program,
which includes the I -Care program for middle school students, the Leadership
Academy for Young Professionals and Leadership Dublin. All three programs help
prepare the next generation of leaders for effective community involvement.
The Chamber wants to continue to do more to serve the community.
Scott Arthur, Board Treasurer, Dublin Chamber and Vice President, IGS Energy, 6100
Emerald Parkway, Dublin noted he is a resident of Tartan Ridge. Because of the great
work done at the Chamber of Commerce and the City of Dublin, the community is
growing. The needs of the business community continue to evolve and the Dublin
Chamber has a vision for the future to meet those needs, including new resources, groups
and programs. Programs like the Dublin Corporate Challenge -- with a growing business
focus on health and wellness of employees that involves the City, Schools and Chamber
joining forces to create an amazing event that has brought more than 3,000 individuals
and volunteers together to encourage healthy workplaces. The needs of businesses are
changing as the majority of workforce now consists of millennial workers. Therefore, the
Chamber has designed a new vibrant physical space within the Chamber offices that will
better connect millennials and industry leaders to the overall community as well as offer
multiple meeting rooms, a coffee shop and flexible meeting space. Coworking space will be
available daily as well as complimentary internet access. No reservations will be required.
The Chamber office is positioned perfectly as a southern anchor of the Historic District and
can offer new life to South High Street. With the proposed pop-up park in front of the
building, outdoor workspace will be provided in the summer months. With a building near
local restaurants and neighborhoods, it will be a great asset to small business owners,
entrepreneurs and young professional groups.
Bill Andrews, Andrews Architects, 6631 Commerce Parkway, Dublin thanked Mr. McDaniel
and his team on behalf of the Chamber Board and the group that has led this effort. There
is an incredible spirit of not only cooperation, but a reaffirmation of a truism of his that
one plus one equals three — it is the great efforts of the City in the past and ongoing,
along with the Chamber's efforts in the business community and the exciting things in the
months ahead will result in a manifestation of these efforts. He shared inspirational images
of the remodeling of the Chamber's offices. There will be an outdoor space that will serve
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as a visual gateway driving north into the Historic downtown business area. This will also
serve as an outdoor park space where people can sit and relax, connect into the
Chamber's Wi-Fi, etc. The Chamber and the City's investments will make not only great
physical improvements and a great space for promoting business activities, but also a
great gateway into the south end of the Historic Dublin area. On behalf of the Chamber
Board, they ask for Council's support and approval of this lease agreement tonight.
Vice Mayor De Rosa invited Council comments.
Mr. Peterson thanked the Board members for their service. He has been incredibly
impressed over the years with the Dublin Chamber and all it has done, and the support the
community, Council and staff have given back to the Chamber. The economic health of
this community is the "tip of the sphere" and everything else flows from that — capital
improvements, etc., which are due in large measure to the Chamber and everything they
do. He believes this is a wise investment on the City's part. His one question relates to
perhaps "tying" the hands of future Councils, given this is a 10 -year lease with two five-
year extension options. The language provides the tenant with the discretion of extending
the lease for the additional five-year terms. Is there a reason why that could not state that
the parties have the opportunity to extend — providing the City with the same flexibility as
the Chamber?
Mr. Andrews responded that his point is well taken. Should that be worked into the
agreement — that either party could have options — there should be a timeline established
for that. This would provide adequate notice to the tenant, should the City decide not to
extend the lease. They can work with Legal staff to provide reasonable language to
address this.
Mr. Peterson stated that perhaps the City would have the same timeframes for options as
the tenant has in place in the agreement.
Vice Mayor De Rosa stated that the layout and design take into account how work will be
different in the future and creating opportunities to do that. Giving a facelift to what exists
may not be the right solution going forward, so she appreciates this proposal.
Mr. Andrews noted this is a collective thing — the conversations about what the workplace
of the future should be by the City came back in earnest. This is a bigger plan, but the
results will be amazing.
Ms. Fox stated it is important to note that this is a very public building and available to the
public to use, as outlined in the lease. The north end of the Historic District has the library
and the park, but there is not a draw in the south end of the District. Having this outdoor
element in front of the building and the opportunity for community businesses to utilize
the space is great. This creates a sense of gateway at the south and it will increase some
movement of people in and out of spaces throughout the District. It will be a placemaking
spot.
Mr. Keeler noted he is a math -oriented person, and therefore is reviewing the lease rates
and the cost of the improvements committed to by the City. Would the tenant be willing to
pay a dollar more per foot? Typically, in negotiating a lease with a landlord, the landlord
commits to making certain capital improvements and those are amortized over a period of
time. In this case, there is a 10 -year period of time — which is a long period of time -- and
$300,000 plus is a lot to commit over a 10 -year period at this lease rate. At first glance,
the starting point of $14/foot seems fair, with discounts given for public use, but given the
$300,000 plus of improvements, the price per foot seems low.
Mr. McDaniel responded that Council can certainly consider a motion to modify and discuss
options, if that is their desire.
Mr. Andrews stated the point is well taken. Part of the extensive discussion with the City
Manager and his team on this -- particularly the lease rate -- focused on the fact that
every dollar the Chamber spends on rent is a dollar that cannot be spent on programming.
In the larger picture of what the Chamber is doing for the business community and what
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the City is doing for the business community together, he believes this is a fair lease rate
and represents a compromise related to the desire not to impact programming resources.
Mr. Keeler responded that he cannot say enough about all that the Chamber does for the
community. He has two employees who have participated in Leadership Dublin. He
appreciates the resource the Chamber is. If he were to counter the point, typically when a
lease is in the negotiation phase, the landlord has the option to look at the financials of
the tenant. He is not suggesting this be done, but if it were done, the City could consider
the profits and the revenues. Understanding that a dollar spent on rent means a dollar less
for other expenses, the question as a landlord would be how much revenue does a
nonprofit have and are they disclosing that information. In his opinion, a dollar more per
square foot of rent would be appropriate.
Ms. Alutto stated she is fine with the rent rate that has been proposed in the lease. The
Chamber provides a lot to the City in the partnership, and she is comfortable with that.
She would like to include the change to the language as Mr. Peterson has suggested
regarding the lease extensions being made upon mutual agreement by both parties.
Mr. Reiner stated Council appreciates all that the Chamber does. The City and the
Chamber have a long-term partnership. Given the improvements proposed, it is important
to have more transparency in working on the same type of projects, which are beneficial
to the City. More information sharing would be appropriate, especially in terms of
businesses exiting and coming to Dublin. The additional expense by the City warrants
knowing more about the Chamber organization and operations, as Mr. Keeler has
suggested. It would be helpful to both the City and the Chamber.
Mr. Andrews stated that is a great point, and it will be addressed in the upcoming
memorandum of understanding that Mr. McDaniel mentioned.
Ms. Fox stated that the City supports other nonprofits, such as the Dublin Arts Council, the
Dublin Convention and Visitors Bureau and others. Mr. Reiner's point is correct. In regard
to the suggestion of a dollar more in rent, she does not support that. The partnership with
the Chamber will result in bringing back much more than that in terms of economic
development value. She agrees that sharing of information by the Chamber will improve
the City's economic development efforts. She asked for clarification of Mr. Peterson's
suggestion for an amendment to the agreement.
Mr. Peterson suggested that under the paragraph 2 "Term" — the word "tenant" be
replaced with "the parties" throughout the balance of that paragraph. Extending the term
would be by mutual agreement of the two parties.
Mr. Peterson moved to change the word "tenant" in paragraph 2 to "the parties."
Mr. McDaniel asked Legal staff to provide input.
Ms. Readier stated Legal staff and the Chamber's attorney will review the language to
ensure it conveys that any extensions are mutually agreed upon.
Ms. Alutto seconded the motion.
Vice Mayor De Rosa stated that the other change needed is to the title of the ordinance,
deleting the words "term of five years."
Mr. Peterson amended his motion to include this change.
Ms. Alutto seconded the amended motion.
Vote on the motion: Ms. Alutto, yes; Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Ms. Fox, yes; Mr. Peterson,
yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes.
Vote on the Ordinance as amended: Ms. Alutto, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Mr. Peterson, yes;
Ms. Fox, yes; Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes.
Mr. McDaniel thanked Council and the Chamber representatives.
(Mayor Amorose Groomes rejoined the meeting)
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Form 6101
SECOND READING/PUBLIC HEARING — ORDINANCES
Ordinance 02-20
Accepting the Annexation of 11+/- Acres from Washington Township to the
City of Dublin. (Applicant: MC Shier Rings LLC)
Ms. Readler stated there have been no changes since the first reading. Staff recommends
approval of the Ordinance.
There was no public testimony offered.
There was no further discussion.
Vote on the Ordinance: Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Mr. Peterson, yes; Ms. Fox, yes;
Mr. Keeler, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes.
Ordinance 03-20
Petitioning the Board of County Commissioners of Union County, Ohio to Adjust
the Boundary Lines of Jerome Township so as to Exclude That Territory Which,
as a Result of Annexation, Now Lies within the Corporate Boundaries of the City
of Dublin. (Ordinance 44-19 — 1.29 acres, more or less - property owner Darshan Shah
and Ordinance 28-19 - 4.816 acres - property owner Washington Township Trustees)
Ms. Readler stated there have been no changes since first reading. Staff is recommending
approval.
There was no public testimony offered.
There was no further discussion.
Vote on the Ordinance: Ms. Alutto, yes; Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes; Mayor
Amorose Groomes, yes; Mr. Peterson, yes; Mr. Fox, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes.
Ordinance 04-20
Providing for the Issuance and Sale of Bonds in the Maximum Principal Amount
of $20,,000,,000 for the Purpose of Paying the Costs of Improving the Municipal
Parks and Recreation System by (A) Constructing the Riverside Crossing Park
and (B) Reconstructing, Renovating, Rehabilitating, Equipping and Furnishing
the Dublin Community Pool North Complex, Together with All Incidental Work
and Related Appurtenances Thereto,
Mr. Stiffler stated there are no changes to the Ordinance, and staff recommends approval.
Present tonight are Brian Cooper and Thomas Ricchiuto of Baker Tilly, the City's municipal
advisors who will provide information about the bond market.
Mr. Cooper provided an update on the current bond market. He shared the following:
• The bond buyer index — 20 years for General Obligation bonds. This is an index
maintained by the bond buyer and looks back to 1990. This index is at an all-time
low in terms of interest rates. The timing is very good as the rates are very low.
• The tax-exempt yield curve — the tax-exempt AAA MMD benchmark curve that all
tax-exempt bonds are priced off of. The City of Dublin's issuance will be
benchmarked to this index on the day of pricing. The dotted line on the graph is
the current market rate. The slide shows a one-month (red) and six-month (blue)
look back in the rates. The green line shows where the index was one year ago.
The MMD shows that the longer you go out in time, the higher the interest rate.
We are in a flat yield curve right now. The cost for borrowing for additional time is
not as great as it is in a typical market.
• In terms of the municipal bond market, there have been 57 consecutive weeks of
municipal bond fund inflows — money coming into the municipal bond market. This
is a long streak of inflows of greater than $1 billion per week. Current tax-exempt
weekly supply totals about $7.8 billion, which is north of the 2020 year-to-date
weekly average of $4.5 billion. The weekly average in 2019 was $6.2 billion.
• Economic data continues to have a positive tone or exceeds expectations.
• The MMD index was steady today. The ten-year AAA MMD is at 1.18 percent,
which is very low. The ten-year US Treasury is trading around 1.55 percent as of
1:30 p.m. today.
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• In approaching the sale date, they monitor the 30 -day supply, the amount of debt
maturing or announced calls as investors need to redeploy their cash into the
market. On a national level, the municipal market net supply is supposed to be
negative — meaning less supply than demand, which is helpful for interest rates
going down and prices going up.
• For the municipal market supply in Ohio, there is some excess supply in the
market. The issuance over the next 30 days is expected to exceed debt maturing
or that will be called. The visible supply exceeds the amount of debt maturing or
that will be called by about $118 million.
• The next steps for the bond sale, following approval by Council of the issuance
would be rating calls with Moody's, Standard & Poor's and Fitch — those were
completed last week. Mr. McDaniel and Mr. Stiffler represented the City on those
calls.
• The official statement will be finalized by February 26; on March 12, pricing of
bonds and locking of interest rates; closing scheduled for April 2, which is the date
the City receives the funds to either fund the projects or reimburse itself for funds
already expended.
He offered to respond to any questions.
Mr. McDaniel recognized Mr. Cooper and Mr. Ricchiutto of Baker Tilly and Mr. Franzmann
of Squire Patton & Boggs for their preparation done for the presentations last week. He
acknowledged Mr. Stiffler's efforts, as well.
Mayor Amorose Groomes commented she attended a ribbon cutting at Charles Schwab
who opened a new office in Dublin. They commented regarding the current market rates.
Mayor Amorose Groomes asked what the debt would cost the City per year.
Mr. Cooper responded that the $26 million amortized over 20 years is about $1,750,000
per year in debt service, which includes principal and interest.
Ms. De Rosa commented about the surplus in Ohio versus not at the national level. What
is the cause of that?
Mr. Cooper responded that issuers are issuing taxable bonds because of the changes to
the tax law and the 2017 Tax Act. Those taxable deals represent about 30 percent of the
market supply. Municipal bonds are being issued as taxable instead of tax exempt. That is
shrinking the tax-exempt supply, which then drives prices up and interest rates down. This
is one of the major factors that is causing the low rates. He added that they are willing to
provide an update to Council post sale as well.
There was no public testimony offered.
There was no further discussion.
Vote on the Ordinance: Ms. Fox, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes; Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Mr.
Reiner, yes; Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes; Mr. Peterson, yes.
Ordinance 05-20
Providing for the Issuance and Sale of Bonds in the Maximum Principal Amount
of $6,,000,000 for the Purpose of Paying the Costs of Improving the Municipal
Sanitary Sewer System by Extending Certain Sewer Lines, Together with All
Incidental Work and Related Appurtenances Thereto.
Mr. Stiffler stated that there are no changes since the first reading.
There was no public testimony offered.
There was no further discussion.
Vote on the Ordinance: Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes; Vice Mayor De
Rosa, yes; Mr. Peterson, yes; Ms. Fox, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes.
INTRODUCTION /PUBLIC HEARING /VOTE — RESOLUTIONS
Resolution 14-20
Appointing Members to City of Dublin Boards and Commissions
Ms. Alutto introduced the Resolution.
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Form 6101
Vice Mayor De Rosa announced the appointments as follows: Leo Grimes to the unexpired
term of William Wilson on the Planning & Zoning Commission, effective immediately and
continuing until March 31, 2022; and Lance Schneier to a four-year term on the Planning &
Zoning Commission beginning April 1, 2020 and continuing through March 31, 2024.
There was no public testimony offered.
There was no further discussion.
Vote on the Resolution: Mr. Reiner, yes; Ms. Fox, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes; Mr.
Peterson, yes; Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes.
OTHER
• Art in Public Places Program — Site Selection
Mr. McDaniel asked that this item be postponed to the March 16, 2020 Council meeting.
Mr. Reiner moved to postpone this item to the March 16, 2020 Regular Council meeting.
Ms. Alutto seconded the motion.
Vote on the motion: Mr. Peterson, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes; Mayor Amorose
Groomes, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes; Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Ms. Fox, yes.
• South High Street — Community Development Committee Update
Mr. Earman stated that in follow-up to the Committee meetings after some tree removals
on South High Street due to AEP trimming work and decay of trees, he is present to
provide an overview. Staff is seeking Council's approval of the Committee
recommendations in order to move forward on a variety of items. He shared the following
information:
• In removal of decayed trees in this area, there is a desire to enhance the
streetscape. A variety of issues have been encountered, including existing
overhead utility lines; buried utility lines; compacted soils; light poles; soil volume
issues, etc. There are sight triangle considerations for traffic as well.
• Productive meetings were held with the Committee, including a site visit downtown
to discuss some of these items. What was decided upon was to have three phases
— first to take care of the treescape itself on South High Street; second to address
some of the landscape issues and enhancement possibilities for the same location;
and third, an update to the City Code to help with future streetscapes and
landscapes throughout urban and suburban areas of the City.
• For the treescape plan, the question was whether to wait for the utility lines to be
relocated or plant larger trees now, knowing there will be need to move the utility
poles in the near future. The thought was to begin immediately with the
understanding the utility poles would be relocated before they became an issue.
• Discussion took place of preferred species to have the type of crown height and
distance from existing buildings with a uniformed look and feel up and down the
streetscape, including two possible species — the Tulip Tree and the Hardy Rubber
Tree. Both of these were selected as preferred trees, but a specific tree has not yet
been determined based upon potential inventories and quality of those inventories
available.
• There are existing trees on the northwest segment of South High Street that
remain. There are several items noted as issues, but nothing is in need of removal
immediately. It was decided that trees would be removed only as needed and as
time dictated them to be a hazard or safety concern.
• The Committee discussed soil volume issues up and down the existing street. The
analysis conducted indicated there were about 600 cubic feet per tree deficient of
the types of soil needed to accommodate the types of trees. There is a 1,000 cubic
feet preference, and to date there is approximately 400 cubic feet per tree
available.
• The best way to do this was to go underneath the existing pavement and install
Silva Cells as a structural base to accommodate these trees and provide the
structure for the roadway to be replaced on top of that to attain the 1,000 cubic
feet level. Engineering will need to review this and determine where this can occur,
and the spacing of the trees to maximize the opportunities up and down the street.
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There is some preliminary work and costs associated with that. The estimated cost
to install this type of system is about $20,000 per tree. It involves extensive work.
• Staff anticipates a minimum of 20 trees could be placed along South High Street on
the east side, up to perhaps 40 total throughout. That will be determined with the
site analysis for each tree as the plan progresses.
• Phase 2 is landscape enhancement. The current landscape on both east and west
sides of South High Street is inconsistent, with a variety of types. There was
discussion of existing stonewall that is currently downtown and the possibility of
adding more on the corridor.
• Another issue identified was water displacement for downspouts. There are some
areas creating erosion issues. Identifying some downspout diversion concepts,
some of which would be underneath the sidewalk itself and others could be basins
to capture the water and allow to run off less offensively to the landscape.
• The idea of a landscape design assistant from City staff to provide some assistance
with design for each of the homeowners and/or businesses along South High to
create a more consistent and complementary look and feel.
• Discussion of entering the Fagade Grant program for this type of work was also a
preference of the Committee.
• Phase 3 is City Code updates for long-term plans for urban streets. Currently, there
are no preferred species indicated for urban areas. Staff provided a list of preferred
tree species for varying size of canopies, less than 40 feet in diameter and greater
than 40 feet in diameter. The Committee directed their preferred trees in these
categories. The selection of trees for urban areas would not always be limited to
only these species and would be at the discretion of the City Forester.
• The City Code update for the current street trees should address the ambiguity in
the diversity level of species on each individual street that exists in the Code. He
read into the record the current Code language and the Committee's preferred
language for this update.
He suggested that Committee members provide their comments.
Mr. Reiner, Chair, stated that there was discussion of a wide range of topics at these
meetings. There is still Engineering work to be done, as Mr. Earman has indicated.
Staff is requesting Council authorization to proceed with the implementation of the South
High Street improvements and staff will return with more information on costs.
Mayor Amorose Groomes stated that $20,,000 per tree sounds like a big number for 40
trees on South High Street. However, the fagade grant improvements have been done in
recent years at significant costs, and nothing will improve the fagade and feel of that
street more than a good street tree canopy. The money will be well spent.
Vice Mayor De Rosa commented that this will be staggered, with some trees needing to be
replaced and others not.
Mayor Amorose Groomes stated that the existing trees would not be cut down until they
come into conflict with the trees installed.
Mr. Reiner stated there are two projects — the west side where the trees are gone and on
the east side, there are some large existing trees providing some service. There is still
some work to be done in terms of what should be removed and the best way to move
forward.
Ms. Alutto asked if the costs can be capital expenses.
Mr. Ea rm a n agreed.
Ms. Alutto asked about the Sweetgum trees. Are these the trees that drop spiky pods?
Mr. Reiner responded there are new species introduced that have been sterilized and do
not do this.
Ms. Fox supports the idea of landscape assistance. There are people who do want to plant
in their yards and having landscape design assistance would be very helpful. She added in
regard to LED lighting that this is now installed in the decorative lanterns and it changes
the whole character of the street. She requested the City consider changing these out to
the previous lighting. In addition, the parking garage is very lit up at night and is glaring.
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting
BARRETT BROTHERS - DAYTON, OHIO
Held
February 10, 2020 Page 24 of 26
Perhaps this could be modified. Also, street clutter and signage not used should be
cleaned up.
Mayor Amorose Groomes noted that sandwich board signs were discussed in relation to
the fa§ade grant program. There was a desire to have more creative sandwich board
signs. This should address the clutter issue.
There was no public testimony offered.
Form 6101
Mr. Reiner moved to proceed with implementation of the South High Street streetscape
improvements.
Ms. Alutto seconded the motion.
Vote on the motion: Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes; Mr. Peterson, yes; Ms. Fox, yes; Vice
Mayor De Rosa, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes.
STAFF COMMENTS
There were no staff comments.
COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS
Ms. Fox, PZC representative stated that:
1. The Commission recommended approval of the final development plan for the
Columbus Oncology comprehensive oncology center of 32,000 square feet on
Perimeter Drive. This building will house a one-stop cancer treatment center. They
are adding a healing garden for infusion therapy patients to be able to view during
treatment.
2. A Master Sign Plan for Bridge Park Block D was reviewed. This involved four
buildings. The plan for three buildings was approved with some discussion about
projecting signs. The front building houses the North Market and the sign plan for
that was unique. It will be further reviewed, but there is a 64 -square foot vinyl
applique of a rooster on the front of the building. There is a red rooster on one end
and a projecting sign with the North Market rooster and some grass on canopies.
There are also some banners suggested, and PZC asked them to bring forward
something more creative.
Ms. De Rosa, Administrative Committee:
1. Noted that the annual Council retreat will take place on Thursday evening,
February 20 and Friday, February 21. An agenda will be circulated this week as
well as a "homework" assignment.
2. Thanked the residents who applied for service on boards and commissions. There
will be openings on the Records Commission and the Dublin Arts Council Board on
April 1.
Ms. Alutto, Finance Committee stated the Committee would meet on Tuesday, February
18.
Ms. Fox, Public Services Committee stated the Committee would meet on Tuesday,
February 18, following the Finance Committee. The agenda items include vacant
properties and the update of the property maintenance code. Mr. Jones, Code
Enforcement will provide information on the challenges faced with enforcement issues.
Vice Mayor De Rosa, COTA Board member stated as Council approaches their retreat,
there has been a tipping point in the thinking about local ride sharing. Dublin has had its
SHARE partnership in place, and COTA and the community at large looks at that as a
model in providing great information. However, Grove City Council has approved funding
to expand their service; Westerville will implement a service this year; and COTA has many
requests from other communities looking to do that. She believes this model now has
some gravity, and as the retreat discussion takes place, there is opportunity to talk more
about this. In the last six months, this has gone from a concept to many pilots and much
demand.
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting
BARRETT BROTHERS - DAYTON, OHIO Form 6101
Held
February 10, 2020 Page 25 of 26
Ms. Alutto, Dublin Friendship Association welcomed Sarah McQuaide who will serve as the
staff liaison for this group.
Mayor Amorose Groomes, MORPC representative noted an Executive Committee meeting
took place last week. Work continues on funding models and the Metropolitan
Transportation Plan.
Mr. Keeler, Logan/Union/Champaign County LUC representative reported that the group
would meet on Wednesday.
Ms. De Rosa, US 33 Corridor Group stated that the group would meet on Friday.
Ms. Fox, Dublin Bridges liaison noted the group desires to participate in the opening of the
pedestrian bridge and is working with City staff.
Ms. Alutto, Complete Count Committee welcomed Mr. Rogers, who will replace Ms.
Richison as a staff liaison. The group meets tomorrow.
Mr. Reiner, Veterans Committee stated that the Committee met on January 29 and a great
discussion was held. Topics included the 1919 Building monument location, the Purple
Heart monument interactive displays at the Grounds of Remembrance, Dublin High School
Veterans Memorial, the Dublin Honor Flight program and Purple Star awards for Schools.
No official action was taken. Jeff Noble was selected as Chair and Charles Krumholtz as
Vice Chair and approval of these officers by Council is requested. The next meeting will be
February 27.
Mr. Reiner moved approval of the appointments of Jeff Noble as Chair and Charles
Krumholtz as Vice Chair of the Veterans Committee.
Mayor Amorose Groomes seconded the motion.
Vote on the motion: Vice Mayor De Rosa, yes; Mr. Keeler, yes; Ms. Alutto, yes; Ms. Fox,
yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Mr. Peterson, yes; Mayor Amorose Groomes, yes.
Ms. Fox, Historic Dublin Vision Task Force reported that the group had their initial meeting
last Monday. She thanked Mr. McDaniel and Ms. Rauch for their assistance. There was a
good turnout and good conversation. The group meets next on Tuesday, February 11.
COUNCIL ROUNDTABLE
Mr. Keeler commended Vice Mayor De Rosa on her selection of Jeff Sturm as the retreat
facilitator. He will do an excellent job in this role.
Ms. Fox asked staff when a private road is recommended versus a public road in
developments. Is there a policy in place? This question has come up several times and she
asked about the history of this topic.
Mr. McDaniel responded there is a long history and he can share the information on this
topic.
Vice Mayor De Rosa commented regarding the six-foot side lot lines that continue to be
proposed in development. She can understand it makes sense in certain cases, but it
seems to now be the default side lot line for large homes — whether patio home or
retirement home. Perhaps in some cases it makes sense, but there are unintended
consequences in other cases. She is not certain how to bring this to the table for
discussion.
Mr. McDaniel suggested referring this to the Planning and Zoning Commission for review.
If there is something specific to investigate, staff can add this to a future agenda for
discussion.
Ms. Fox agreed. PZC has had that same question and they are not comfortable with the
proximity to the next lot, given the air conditioner and window well encroachments.
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Minutes of
BARRETT BROTHERS - DAYTON, OHIO
Dublin City Council
Held February 10, 2020 Page 26 of 26
Meeting
Form 6101
Mayor Amorose Groomes suggested that if the side setback is less than 10 feet, the HVAC
units should be mounted on the house. If the spaces in the side yard are to be that tight,
the units should be mounted to the house. She asked that they consider this as well.
Ms. Alutto thanked Ms. Fox for including her in the conversation regarding Forever Dublin
that now falls under her Committee. She is passionate about this topic and appreciates
being kept informed.
Mr. Reiner stated he would like to see more creative analysis done regarding the kind of
units where there are rows of boxes of houses facing each other's backyards. Those
residents will need to purchase significant landscaping to have some privacy for their
expensive home. There are design solutions available that were not employed in tonight's
example, such as a radiating wheel where the houses are set on a cul-de-sac and radiate
out. It requires a minimal amount of screening and results in savings for the homeowners.
The developers are trying to place as many houses as possible on a site and are not using
creative landscape architectural practices. The result of this change would be a much nicer
community for everyone, and a huge savings for homeowners.
Mayor Amorose Groomes:
1. Reported that she and Ms. Alutto attended the Historic Dublin Business Association
meeting. She thanked them for hosting and noted a productive conversation took
place.
2. Congratulations to Jill Kranstuber who was selected as the 2020 Dublin Grand
Leprechaun!
3. Thanked Communications and Public Information staff who joined her in a meeting
with a Chinese community about facilitating conversations with that community
moving forward.
4. She is looking forward to the retreat.
5. Given the late hour, the topic of bridge names will be deferred to a later date.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 10:30 p.m.
Mayor — Presiding Officer
Act'ActifVa Clerkl6f Council 0