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HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-12-04 Study SessionDUBLIN CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION Monday, April 12, 2004 Mayor Marilee Chinnici-Zuercher called the Monday, April 12, 2004 Study Session of Dublin City Council to order at 7:00 p. m. in Council Chambers at the Dublin Municipal Building. The topics for discussion were the DSL agreement and a telecommunications update. Roll Call Council members present were: Mayor Marilee Chinnici-Zuercher, Cathy Boring, Mike Keenan, Tom McCash, John Reiner, and Amy Salay. Mr. Lecklider arrived late. Staff Members: Jane Brautigam Dana McDaniel Kelly Heal Greg Dunn, Schottenstein, Zox and Dunn DSL AGREEMENT Mr. McDaniel stated that the meeting packet included a report outlining the DSL agreement, the June 2003 work session on the topic and a slide presentation from that meeting. Tonight's focus will be to respond to questions. Agreement Outline: Mr. McDaniel provided a brief summary of the agreement. In the last work session, Council guidance was given to staff to: 1. Continue focus on DSL as a recreational programming organization; 2. Propose a change to the DSL Board which is included in the agreement; 3. Consider establishing a new agreement with DSL and follow up agreements with the clubs to explore a middle tier, middle program offering. 4. Review the competitive soccer offerings in Dublin, i.e., OP/OFC, the elite and select within that, and review those competitive programs in the form of some follow-up agreements to the DSL agreement; and to look at a grievance appeal process which is provided far in this agreement but to be determined by the new Board of the DSL. After the work session, a working group was formed to work through the issues, including John Muir, DSL; Jim Bishop, DSL; and other individuals with a longstanding history in DSL and involvement with GOYSL. In addition, he spoke with individuals who raised some issues regarding soccer programs in Dublin. During its development, the agreement was shared and input was invited. There is buy-in from the DSL Board, and the two club teams of the DSL. There is not total buy-in from all parties, but this is what staff is recommending to Council. He highlighted the provisions of the agreement that would be executed between the City of Dublin and the Dublin Soccer League. 1. It reiterates the mutual key objectives of Dublin youth soccer programming, emphasizing recreational soccer first; everything else follows. He added that the new agreement should not be any reflection of mistrust of any of the organizations, but rather, reflect the complexity of the organizations that serve 3,800 Dublin youth. The proposal is meant to simplify the structure. DSL has stayed true to the recreational program needs. 2. The agreement sets forth the specific responsibilities of the City and DSL in the provision of recreational soccer to the community City Council Study Session April 12, 2004 page 2 3. Far the first time, it will recognize, by agreement, four distinctive 501 C3 organizations. Currently, the City has an agreement only with the Dublin Soccer League which is an organization encompassing the recreational organization and the OP and OFC. 4. This agreement proposes an 8-member DSL board, five of which would be voting members -two parents elected generally from the membership, two parent coaches or parent assistant coaches, and a City representative. Three ex officio members would represent the traditional club teams, OP and OFC. 5. The agreement would create a middle tier organization or MTO, similar to the GOYSL or rec-plus program. It is neither general recreation nor club, but anon- selectorganization. Anyone can play, but it would provide a higher level of competition than recreational soccer. It would require less travel, time and expense commitment than the club teams. Individual agreements would be established for the first time, creating a "fire wall" between the organizations for accountability and exchange of funding. Hopefully, the communication between the City and those organizations will be improved 6. Executive Director responsibilities are defined, as a high level of accountability is desired from those who provide services an the City's behalf. The executive director would report to the governing board. 7. The standard legal requirements are also provided. He recommends that Council approve this agreement, which would then be executed with Dublin Soccer League. The clubs have expressed their support for this agreement. They intend to follow-up with specific agreements outlining what they will provide and haw. The middle tier or GOYSL type group will continue to be provided by DSL through the end of Spring 2006. It is anticipated that someone will come fonrvard to indicate a willingness to establish that organization as its own 501-C3 program, at which time an agreement would be provided to Council for review. The intent is to address individual agreements with individual organizations, which represent different levels of service. The agreement provides for general recreational programming, a middle tier offering, and a club system which includes select and elite. Within these categories, there are various price ranges and levels of commitment. He recommends that the City avoid duplication in providing these services. He is not concerned about a "monopoly" situation, as some have labeled it, as the City does not have enough resources for multiple club and recreational soccer teams. In addition, Dublin lacrosse and football sports are growing; these same fields are used for those sports. This agreement allows different levels of service to be provided through other organizations. If those organizations were not present, the City would be providing this as a City program. Mr. Reiner asked if the City is granting a monopoly, how can it monitor/protect the costs to play? Mr. McDaniel stated that from a public policy perspective, the City's primary responsibility is with the recreational leagues. The City will have a vote on the DSL Board, plus it would always hold the "trump card"-- use of the City fields. As agreements are executed with the other groups, an understanding can be reached about their fees for participation. As Council reviews those agreements, it will determine to what extent it wants to be involved in setting those rates. He would anticipate that these groups would come back for a dialogue about rates in view of the services they provide. Mr. Reiner stated that he assumes they would substantiate the rates with the costs for such programs throughout the region. City Council Study Session April 12, 2004 page 3 Mr. McDaniel responded that surveys have demonstrated that they are consistent with the regional costs. Mr. Reiner noted that if other groups in other cities pay for rent and rehab of fields, Dublin has an obligation to keep the costs down for its citizens in view of the fact that City tax dollars pay the cost of field maintenance of Dublin's fields. Ms. Salay noted that a portion of the soccer fees - $10, goes to a field fund. Mr. McDaniel responded that this is correct. DSL initiated a field fund a few years ago, and it now has a balance of $150,000 - $200,000. He has asked them to make a proposal to the City for use of these funds. They want to spend it, leveraging that to the City in some fashion - improve existing fields, buy more land for fields, etc. Mr. Lecklider inquired if DSL is charging a fee to recreational soccer participants for a field fund, who controls that money? Mr. McDaniel responded that the DSL Board does. Mr. McCash noted that it is the City's fields that are being used by those teams. Mr. Lecklider commented that DSL is collecting fees from Dublin residents for using Dublin's public fields. Mr. McDaniel responded several years ago, DSL indicated to the City that they would like to contribute in some way, and the City suggested fund-raising. DSL then instituted a field fund. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher commented that the intention was to spend the funds on the City fields, but no procedure was determined for decision-making to utilize those funds. Mr. Keenan asked if the funds are being used for any other purpose at the current time. A DSL member from the audience responded that the funds have been held for five years, and have never been used, continuing to accrue interest. Mr. McCash stated that this money was included in the MOSSL proposal, from what he understands. Mr. McDaniel stated that is correct. DSL had intended to leverage their monies with that of MOSSL to purchase additional fields at Darree or improve existing fields in exchange for providing MOSSL a certain level of access to those fields. Mr. McCash stated that MOSSL is in essence the select level program of the club teams. Mr. McDaniel stated that MOSSL is an umbrella soccer league organization that they have affiliation with. Mr. McCash clarified that in Dublin the only MOSSL teams are through the select programs associated with the clubs. Mr. McDaniel concurred. Recreational soccer teams are associated with US Soccer; club teams are under MOSSL. Mr. McCash noted that under the MOSSL proposal, the City would have added fields that would have been predominantly controlled by clubs. The proposal guaranteed MOSSL a significant amount of field time, rather than balancing the field usage among all the participants. Mr. McDaniel noted that all of the participants would have been under the umbrella of DSL. In addition, MOSSL would have contributed $600,000 to be combined with the DSL funds for field purchaselimprovements. That $720,000 - $800,000 would have benefited the recreational soccer program as well. City Council Study Session page 4 April 12, 2004 Mr. McCash stated that, nevertheless, the $10 field fee charged to Dublin recreational soccer players would have been used to develop fields that would have benefited the MOSSL teams. Mr. McDaniel clarified that atone time, MOSSL had fields secured somewhere in Hilliard, with the understanding that the City of Columbus would also leverage some money toward field development. However, the City of Columbus administration limited their funds to development of fields closer to downtown. Because MOSSL wanted to stay in the suburbs, they approached DSL regarding an opportunity for field expansion in the City of Dublin, utilizing MOSSL funds of $600,000. DSL had $120,000 at the time and decided to put forth a joint proposal to the City. An analysis had indicated that this investment would have expanded/enhanced the fields, which would have also benefited the recreational soccer program. However, the MOSSL proposal was tabled. Mr. McCash stated that this proposal might yet come back. Mr. McDaniel acknowledged that is possible. Mr. Keenan inquired if the DSL field funds are identified for purchase or for improvement of fields? Mr. McDaniel responded that they could be designated for either purpose. Mr. Keenan recommended that the agreement clearly delineate the use of those funds, so that there is an understanding from the residents who participated. Mr. McDaniel responded that could be stated, but he is confident that the monies would not be funneled off, but would remain with DSL and their treasury. Mr. Keenan stated that there are other revenue streams within DSL. It would be better to delineate use of the DSL Field Fund in the agreement. Mr. Lecklider questioned the justification for charging City residents a field development fee. The City already purchases and develops the fields. Mr. Reiner stated that there is a significant amount of "wear and tear" on the fields, which this would cover. The City's Parks department should have control of that money as it came from the citizens. He would like for staff to determine whether to acquire more land, upgrade the fields or pay for maintenance with these monies and determine how that can be accomplished. Mr. McDaniel stated that he has every confidence that this money will be put towards the City's fields. Mr. Keenan reiterated that the use of the funds should be delineated. Mr. McDaniel responded that he did not have an expectation that it would be resolved tonight, but if Council wants to address this in the DSL agreement, that can be done. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher asked if all who participate in the soccer program would pay $10, regardless of the level of play. Mr. McDaniel responded that participants at every level pay this fee once a year. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher stated that with 3,800 players, that would equate to $38,000 each year. Mr. McCash asked about the current participation levels of Dublin residents compared to Dublin school district residents. Mr. McDaniel stated that he has not re-analyzed this information - it was presented at an earlier discussion. This is a constant issue. At the high school level, a certain mix is required. Another important consideration is that Dublin players go to other jurisdictions so that this mix can be City Council Study Session April 12, 2004 page 5 maintained. He recalls that the percentage of non-Dublin participants was approximately 6 percent. Mr. Reiner commended Mr. McDaniel. He would be interested in knowing the cast of maintaining the fields. This field fee should be used toward the future needs of fields. Mr. McDaniel responded that he could put something in the agreement to cover this, if it would increase Council's comfort level. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher commented that she would prefer that such a provision be included. She would also like a formal plan and process far how this money will be used in the future. Mr. McDaniel recommended including a clause that addresses this fund, specifically in terms of continuing to be a part of the DSL treasury and field improvement fund, and that the new board will propose how to spend and to collector not to collect these monies into the future. It would be incumbent far the new board to come back to Council with a recommendation under their new configuration. Mr. Lecklider stated that if the City does not have any influence or control over the money, he would question its collection. Mr. McDaniel stated that the City would have every control over that. Ms. Salay stated that short of building a private soccer venue, they would have to partner with the City. Mr. McDaniel emphasized that their desire was to leverage the funds toward future field needs, similar to what DYA did with Avery Park for improvements. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher stated that she does not see an issue with contributing funds to improve the fields, but as a citizen, she would not want to contribute for ten years and not see those monies used for that purpose. Mr. McDaniel stated that DSL did come to the City with the MOSSL proposal, but the City "put the brakes" on that proposal. That is why the monies have not been spent to date. Mr. Lecklider clarified that he is not questioning their motives or intent. However, a substantial amount of money has been accumulated over recent years, and that should be addressed. He inquired how other communities address field use for multiple clubs and with fewer playing fields than Dublin has. Westerville, for example, has a number of clubs. Mr. McDaniel stated that he is not aware if they all play on public fields, or if some clubs use private fields. From a staff perspective, he recommends that the City not attempt to manage a multiple club arrangement. Mr. McCash inquired how much the City would actually be managing if the City signs an agreement with DSL to coordinate the use of the fields. The individual organizations would manage their own operations -- recreational, middle-tier or club soccer. Mr. McDaniel stated that the issue is the impact to the City. People are not satisfied with whatever level of service is provided, and they will continue to come to the City with additional requests. No matter how many clubs are proliferated, there will continue to be requests for more of a fixed resource. Mr. McCash stated that in essence then, rather than balancing opportunities and giving residents a choice, the City is effectively "putting all the eggs in one basket." - if people don't like the "basket" offered, they will have to go to a different community. City Council Study Session page 6 April 12, 2004 Mr. McDaniel stated that by having an agreement with the clubs, the City would have more input to that service level than currently exists. At the present, there is no mechanism for input. Mr. McCash stated that it would minimize the potential conflicts. Mr. McDaniel agreed, and he would prefer to minimize the conflicts through an agreement with one provider. Once the City moves beyond the general recreational teams, it is moving from public recreation to anon-public offering. He is trying to walk a fine policy line between general recreation and several hundred Dublin residents who want this through a market demand, so he lets the market drive the selection process. Although there have been a couple of complaints regarding the club offerings, they do have offerings. The offerings are expensive, but they have eager takers. There may be issues with the coaches and service. As the City executes new agreements with them, the levels of service can be analyzed and perhaps modified slightly. However, there is not a need for two additional club teams to provide the same service. Mr. McCash responded that competition is always healthyfor attempting to achieve fair prices, as is evidenced by the City's recent electric and gas aggregations. Regarding the soccer issue, he looks at the situation as a carded ornon-carded situation. If someone wants to play at a carded level, it is essential to go to the club or go outside of Dublin. It makes sense to allow the opportunity for amiddle-tier select program - a carded, rec-plus program with limited travel {Central Ohio area), and mid-Ohio type elements. Mr. McDaniel stated that he opposes a carding program - it is the method for putting a firewall between club and middle tier soccer. There are parent coaches with their own teams who do not like the way club soccer is run, so they join the GOYSL program. However, Greater Outerbelt Youth Soccer League {GOYSL) was intended to be non select and non competitive - anyone who desires to play can do so. It was to be a little more competitive than recreational soccer with some limited travel around the outerbelt. Today, coaches with ready-made teams are joining GOYSL, then, getting their teams carded, and encouraging their team to participate in tournaments outside of Central Ohio, perhaps as far as Toledo or Cincinnati -which the parents were not anticipating. If a middle-tier is established, that level of service should be clearly defined so that the parent is aware of what they are paying for and what will be required of their child. He would recommend not allowing carding, or at least not until the program has been implemented and stabilized. Perhaps after 2 or 3 years, local carding could be considered. Mr. Lecklider noted that DSL could manage local carding. Mr. McDaniel agreed that DSL could, but he would recommend that the contract could be revised later to permit local carding. Mr. McCash stated that an agreement would also be created with the middle tier program, so that the City could control those types of issues. DSL could control the fields. However, this is a five-year agreement, which means the additional components could not be considered for five years. It makes more sense to provide for the opportunity with this contract {protections can be built in), and deal with the issues with the middle tier organization once it has been formed and developed. He would prefer to provide the competitive opportunity now. Protections can be built in. He believes a transition tier of play is of value. Mr. McDaniel noted that under Article 8 - "Amendments," in the contract, is the provision that "this contract can be amended by mutual agreement." He recommends that issue be put in the hands of the new board. At this point, he would recommend seeing the level of interest in the basic agreement. If the MTO is established, the City can choose to execute a mutual agreement that might allow carding. City Council Study Session April 12, 2004 page 7 Mr. McCash stated that would require a mutual agreement to amend it. He would prefer to structure the basic agreement with that option. The MOSSL representative stated that MOSSL does allow parent-coached teams at a middle tier level, as suggested tonight. The difference is that they do not permit parents to assemble teams and then play at that middle tier. Those teams are put together by DSL in conjunction with clubs, and the teams are supposed to be evenly matched. However, parents have such a sense of ownership that they attempt to preserve certain team combinations. MOSYL offers reduced rate Mid-Ohio select programs, coached by parents. They pay to have them certified. But because they da not allow parents to build their own teams, some parents are very dissatisfied -Council has heard from them. Mr. McCash stated that issue could also be addressed in a middle tier agreement. Mrs. Boring stated that the MTO is currently structured to accept any child who wants to play without going through a competitive, selective process. Mr. McDaniel responded that is correct. The GOYSL website states that they are anon-select organization. Mrs. Boring noted that if other things creep in, the City's intent for a general recreation program that is viable for everyone would be jeopardized. If players want more, they can join a club team. It is important to protect the current program. Mr. McDaniel stated that those issues have occurred with travel baseball also. Ms. Salay agreed. It is an unhealthy environment for children when there are parent coaches who are so highly involved with the team that they cannot handle competition appropriately. They often do not display or train the children in sportsmanship. Some of those parents are now displaying discontent with GOSYL. She inquired if the GOSYL teams are all uncarded. Would they be interested in an MTO without carding? Do the other outerbelt communities have something similar? Mr. McDaniel stated that he assumes that GOSYL will be the MTO, as it is the only viable organization that could do so. He would expect someone to come forward to develop that. Ms. Salay inquired if there would be a group of 20 or so parents who would want to take advantage of Dublin's offer for an MTO and would submit a proposal for this MTO to the City? Mr. McDaniel stated that it is known in the community that the City will make this offer. For the interim, Dublin has agreed to continue GOSYL through next fall as part of DSL. If there is no proposal, GOSYL could be continued as part of DSL to the extent they can support it. Ms. Salay inquired if there is interest in other communities in anon-carded, rec-plus program? Mr. McDaniel responded that GOSYL is a higher competition, local travel league with their own tournament. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher inquired if Dublin has an MTO, are there other communities, such as Westerville, Hilliard or Upper Arlington, which have comparable teams to play Dublin's teams? Mr. McDaniel stated that he believes so. The GOYSL representative stated that he also believes so. He has been in discussions with his counterpart in Hilliard to set up weekly competition between their rec-plus teams. They considered beginning a middle tier league. The DSL representative stated that three years ago, they created an analogous, coed program with the high schools. There was high participation. They scheduled against teams from City Council Study Session April 12, 2004 page 8 outside Dublin. If a middle tier organization doesn't develop, and there is interest, the future DSL Board could offer it. Mr. Keenan stated that he believes there would be interest in that level of service. Mr. Lecklider stated that a single gender middle tier is something different from the coed recreation soccer at the high school. Is the MTO still limited to U-9 (ages 9 and under}? Mr. McDaniel responded that it is currently U-10. During the transition period, it would be increased to U-12 to bring in enough players. He doesn't have a stake in cutting it off at any particular age. Mr. McCash inquired if an age should be referenced in this agreement. Mr. McDaniel responded that it would be covered in the MTO agreement, which is separate from the DSL agreement. The DSL contract for services will be to coordinate the field usage on behalf of the City. DSL, could, however, be signatory to the other agreements. The MTO issues need to be worked through with the appropriate parties. He would have no unwavering position on most issues, with the exception of carding. After working on this venue for 9 years, however, he has now developed a strong, philosophical position regarding carding. Ms. Salay inquired the anticipation regarding future student participation -- will it increase or remain around $4,000 participants? Will some players be matriculating into the MTO? Mr. McDaniel responded that the MTO currently exists - it is called the rec-plus or GOSYL program, under DSL. He is trying to separate that to afree-standing organization. It would be a market niche, waiting for someone to develop. He cannot project any numbers, however, the City can define the service more accurately, and, hopefully the public will migrate to that. The participation numbers have been consistent year-to-year. Mr. Reiner thanked Mr. McDaniel for addressing the most pressing issues and for investing his time and energy in the program for the past 9 years. Mr. McDaniel noted that, unfortunately, some citizens will not be happy with the arrangement, but there will be opportunity later to tweak the agreements. At this paint, the focus is on defining the organization for the public. Mr. McCash expressed appreciation for the amount of work Mr. McDaniel has invested on this subject. He believes the DSL agreement should be a very flexible document with many issues being addressed in the individual MTO and club agreements. At the moment, many opportunities are not passible with the proposed agreement, unless it is amended. It is not as flexible as he would prefer. There are some abuses that should be possible to address. Mr. McDaniel stated that if Council philosophically disagrees with his position and would like the non-carded provision removed, it could be removed. It is his strong recommendation, based upon experience and involvement, however, that it not be included at the beginning. That can be reconsidered later, if desired. As in all cases, it is easier to give something later than to remove it once given. Ms. Salay inquired if the DSL coordination of field usage would be limited to game scheduling or to practices, as well. In addition to Avery and Darree, there are soccer fields now at Wyandotte Park. In time, more fields will be required. She has observed that although signs are posted at Darree Fields, "Fields resting, please stay off," that five teams are on the fields practicing. Obviously, sufficient field availability for practices is a major issue. Are there sufficient fields to City Council Study Session page 9 April 12, 2004 support the needs of the multiple organizations and still allow the ability to take care of the fields as they should be? Mr. McDaniel stated that staff is doing projections. There have been discussions with DYA and with Lacrosse - a program that grew by 200 kids in Dublin in one year. This is a policy question for Council to determine -the program balance between recreational and club soccer needs. At some point, clubs, travel baseball --organizations other than recreational, may need to contribute monies for field development. Dublin may not be able to meet the needs for fields indefinitely. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher stated that the growing lacrosse needs are a critical consideration for the City's CIP. That program was initiated to build players' skills before high school competitive play. She perceives that program as a legitimate component of the City's comprehensive recreation program. Mr. McDaniel stated that the City has been in related discussions with DYA, which has recently formed a lacrosse offering. The City is considering designating space within the northeast quad park for a starting site. It is desirable to have the individual sports played at different 51tes. Mr. Keenan stated that the fields and park space are the bigger issue, and those needs should be addressed by the CIP. Mrs. Boring stated that community support for DSL is significant. She has no objection to the draft document presented by Mr. McDaniel. Mr. McDaniel stated that the document that will be presented to Council would address a proposal for use of the field fund. It will also retain the non carding provision for an MTO, with the understanding that may be reconsidered later in a specific MTO agreement. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher invited public testimony. Ed Ostrowski, 5702 Southby Ct., Dublin, stated that he has been involved with DSL for 15 years and served on the City's Parks and Recreation Commission the past five years. His comment addresses future field development. Dublin City Schools project an enrollment increase of 1,100 students from 2003 to 2013. There are insufficient playing fields now. Every available section of greenspace at Darree Fields is in use. It is appropriate for the City to develop the field space for the community's needs. DSL initiated the field fund five years ago in an effort to partner with the City to create additional fields, and would like to contribute those funds for that purpose. That issue is separate, and should remain separate, from the issue of the structure of different soccer organizations. The community will continue to attract residential growth, and more greenspace available for different purposes will be of benefit to the community. Christopher Clinton, 5308 River Forest Road, referred to the indication of a mere handful of complaints. Actually, there have been a significant number of complaints, which have resulted in this issue coming before City Council. The proposal not to permit carding at the middle tier does not resolve the issues of the citizens who brought the problem to the attention of City Council. Mr. McDaniel also stated that this agreement has the support of the DSL Board, but this Board has been in trouble - it does not function properly, does not listen to or consider the community's requests. They imposed inappropriate restrictions for playing certain levels within City Council Study Session page 10 April 12, 2004 the select level. They required everyone to play at a "C" level, which is incompatible with those parents who could not make the commitment to play at that higher level. The children were capable of playing at a level "A,"and should have been permitted to drop down. There are so many restrictions with the current select level that the parents were compelled to bring the issue to City Council. Those issues remain unaddressed if there is no carding at the middle tier. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher inquired if the carding issue of the middle tier is what the parents desire Council to address. Mr. Clinton responded affirmatively. Mr. Reiner inquired what is wrong with an organization structured to meet the needs of the community's families to play within the outerbelt? Within that structure, they should not be confronted with an aggressive coach's decision to travel to Cincinnati for team competition. For many parents, the family is the greater priority, but they do want their children to have the opportunity to play soccer. Mr. Clinton stated that he coaches in both GOYSL and MOSSL. In his experience, it is the parents who drive that issue. If there are 4 or 5 parents of a roster of 15 who do not want to go outside the area, the coaches are happy to stay within the area. His MOSSL "A" team of 11 Dublin girls has never played outside of Central Ohio, but they had to be carded out of Westerville and they currently play out of Upper Arlington. They have had to move about like vagabonds looking for someone who has the card. The overly passionate coach screaming on the sidelines is in the minority, inexperienced and incompetent of working at the level he is attempting. There could, however, be appropriate constraints for those teams that would prefer a carding status. He made a proposal to DSL, which contained components that would narrow the definition for acceptable behavior. It is entirely reasonable to specify that team will not travel outside of Central Ohio. As stated previously, his team does not. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher inquired what Mr. Clinton's second issue is. Mr. Clinton responded that it is simply that the agreement proposed by Mr. McDaniel is unsatisfactory. It does not respond to the issues of the many parents - not a handful -- who have requested of City a flexible, middle tier organization that does permit carding. It is an issue that does not dissolve when the current players move on. The approaching group of players will have the same needs. Why not resolve it satisfactorily for the current group, rather than deferring it to later? Mike Scoliere, 4603 Gwynedd Court, thanked Council and City staff for working on this issue. Dublin Soccer League does it best. Nowhere else in the state is there better opportunity -- whether it is recreational, middle tier - GOYSL, or club soccer -the premier boys and girls clubs in southern Ohio. It is not perfect, but it works pretty well. Other communities are trying to emulate what this community has. For example, this year there were no GOYSYL girls teams in Dublin, but the interested girls did have the opportunity to play for the Ohio premier select program. Mr. Reiner inquired Mr. Scoliere's experience with sower and his opinion regarding carding. Mr. Scoliere responded that he had no previous experience with soccer until his now 13-year daughter began to play, and she has been playing 5 years. But he is the current president of DSL. He believes the issue is that some parents want to coach their own teams within their preferred parameters. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher stated that those parameters were defined in a proposal made to DSL for carded teams, which contained specific constraints. Is that correct? City Council Study Session page 11 April 12, 2004 Mr. Clinton responded affirmatively. Mrs. Boring stated that part of the problem is the selection process -there are some children that would not be selected. Mr. Scoliere stated that DSL has open tryouts for both select and premier players. Over the course of a week, the players are evaluated. There are na guarantees that any of the players can remain together. With the select program, there is a low cost opportunity for children to get some competition, and they can play in the "B"division, not just the "C"division. In a few years, as the program develops, they will have the opportunity to play in the "A" division. However, that is not the real issue. The issue is that it should not be possible for anyone to set up a club team in Dublin, and then fight over the fields. With the shortage of fields, it is important for DSL to coordinate and allocate field usage. In Westerville, clubs materialize overnight, and there is a constant battle between clubs or carded teams, far field usage. Ms. Salay inquired if the primary distinction is the fact that those coaches can select their own players. Mr. Scoliere responded that there are many differences. The primary issue is how to control them. With Ohio Premier, whether it is the select level or the premier level, if there is a problem with a coach, it can be addresed. It is a monopoly, but it is necessary to live up to it, or there is no access to the fields. If anyone can set up a club team, there is no oversight. The proposals for independently conceived frameworks are not of real substance. Mr. McCash stated that might be the present situation, but the City would actually be developing the same typ of agreement with the MTO organization that it now has with OP/OFC. The MTO agreement would address the issues, such as instantaneous club teams. If the City has an agreement with DSL that addresses those types of issues, and DSL manages its issues with individual coaches, it can set up a similar agreement with the MTO organization, which would provide similar oversight of those teams. Mr. Scoliere inquired how that would prevent others outside that organization from setting up their teams. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher inquired how that is currently addressed. If the fields can accommodate only 50 teams, for instance, how can others use the fields? Mr. McDaniel stated that the independent teams could be using the fields when they are open, and the City is unaware of it. The City Cade should prohibit organized activities or teams from using City property, such as a park, without a permit and insurance. The City should be aware of such activities on public property. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher stated that would be the City's responsibility to pass the appropriate legislation; however, it is not part of the soccer fields situation. Mr. Scoliere stated that DSL has had the luxury of a monopoly, but it has also had the opportunity to concentrate on development of the players. Consequently, Dublin has recently had three girls selected for a national team. If the opportunity is opened to other groups of younger children, it will become more of a "must win" situation. Burnout, lack of quality development, and other problems will occur. Mr. Clinton stated that part of this question is the issue of choice. Some girls have gone over to play for OP and OP girls have come to play for him -there is nothing wrong with that. However, OP is trying to be the exclusive organization for all the kids in Dublin -the only provider. There are some girls, however, who do not like playing for that organization. They want to play for him City Council Study Session April 12, 2004 page 12 or some other coach. There would be no choice with this arrangement, and it is important to allow choice. Allan Daum, 7628 Tonti Drive North, Dublin Soccer League (DSL) President, stated that he has served on DSL 8-9 years. The issues have arisen because there have been gray areas. DSL has not had some needed policies in place. The focus now is to do so - to structure a seamless organization. The club coaches "live and breathe" soccer. They are paid to coach and know more about soccer training than the soccer parents do. At ages 7-9, the children are permitted to play for fun; they are not being pressured to win. Bring that to the Rec program. Give the coaches in the rec soccer program the opportunity to have clinics and develop the players. The problem with club sower is that if those coaches identify a child who appears to have some ability, they put pressure on them at a young age to play for them. He thanked Mr. McDaniel for the time he has spent on this issue. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher requested Council direction for staff. Ms. Salay stated that the MTO appears to be a fuzzy, future image. She would prefer to wait until the City receives an MTO proposal from some group before rrraking a decision regarding carding vs. non carding. It is necessary to know how that MTO would relate to DSL and to club teams. At this point, she sees pros and Dons for making a decision either way. Mrs. Boring noted that a framework has been provided in this agreement to develop within. Mr. McDaniel stated that the framework emphasizes four levels of service. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher stated that the community seems to have expressed a need for more recreational soccer opportunities, not more competitive play. Therefore, she likes the agreement that is proposed. It is a parental responsibility to support "super star" sports, not the City's responsibility. Mr. McDaniel agreed. The City's focus, as structured with this agreement, is on recreational soccer. There is also a need for a clear definition of the level of service. That is the reason non carding has been specified in this agreement - to eliminate the "gray" area for the present. As stated, however, that can be revisited later. Mr. Reiner stated that he likes the choices established with this program. He does not believe it is healthy for a young child to be catered to due to hislher talent. Mrs. Boring expressed satisfaction with the agreement. It establishes a framework and expectations for the program, so it does not matter who Domes fonnrard with an MTO. Mr. Keenan, Mr. Lecklider and Ms. Salay expressed satisfaction with the agreement. Mr. McCash stated that the carding vs. non carding issue should not be addressed at this time, but be deferred until the MTO agreements are done. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher inquired Council consensus on inclusion of the non carding issue in the agreement. Ms. Salay reiterated that she prefers to wait and see the nature of the MTO proposals that will be received before considering carding. Mr. McDaniel stated that his direction would be to retain the proposed language stipulating a non carding status, for the present. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher thanked Mr. McDaniel far the time and work he dedicated to this issue. TELECOMMUNICATIONS City Council Study Session page 13 April 12, 2004 Mr. McDaniel provided an update on the City's telecommunications (band width) project. The City has met the Council objectives, as set forth in 1997. DubLink is available in commercial areas only - it is not deployed in residential areas {showed schematic of geographical area). The fiber optic comes in conduits to accommodate multiple providers. On the average, there are 12 conduits in a route. Presently, 21 miles of the system have been installed at a cost of $4M. It is owned and operated by DubLink LLC/Fishel. The participants in the system are XO, Time Warner, City Signal, Fiber Tech, MCI Worldcom, ICG, and Adelphia. DubLink's point-to- point use serves Nationwide, Compu Serve, Muirloch Realty, and the City municipal buildings. The Township and the Schools have the opportunity to connect. AEP has also expressed a desire to connect their substations, and completion of an agreement is anticipated in the near future. Facilitating multiple providers has resulted in more competition, and hopefully, lower prices. Nationwide and Verizon have cited the DubLink system as their reason for expansion in Dublin. He elaborated upon the DubLink service, showing schematics of the service area. Extension of the DubLink system was handled by Cabotics and Star Technology, which utilized robotic emplacement of fiber through existing conduit/pipe and through the City's storm sewers. Mrs. Boring inquired about the potential for deterioration over time. Mr. McDaniel responded that this geographical area is a good environment for underground fiber optic conduit; it will not deteriorate quickly. He noted that the City has addressed wireless telecommunications in Chapter 99 of the City Code. There is an emphasis on stealth, ca-location, and selection of locations compatible with the surrounding area. It is important for the City to have a cooperative approach, and, perhaps, make public facilities available for towers. Presently Dublin's wireless system has 11 providers, 19 locations, 3 monopoles, and 1 lattice tower, sited on water towers, stadium park light towers, imitation trees, buildings, and a church steeple. Related revenues to the City have been $3.6 M over the past 25 years, not including CIP funds, or school revenue. Mr. McDaniel stated that bandwidth will be the basic information infrastructure of the future. Bandwidth is the critical infrastructure that carries phone, video and data (internet} services. It is deployed either through fiber optics--lighted glass pipeline, or is wireless-radio technology. The Amperion project has tested the provision of bandwidth over power lines, and PUCO has shown interest in such a program. Anticipating future needs, Dublin must maximize bandwidth access to provide: additional capacity and reliability; ability to access markets and information; enable alternative applications, such as video conferencing, mobility, "hot spots"; R & D, etc. This would create more competition, which will result in cost savings to users. Mr. McDaniel stated that it is essential that Dublin remain competitive, and it is helpful to be aware of what other cities are doing. The Third Frontier Network is an initiative among universities and colleges in central Ohio to deploy bandwidth connectivity between those entities. Dublin City Schools would have the opportunity to interconnect. Other communities perceive bandwidth as an economic development tool. Some entities in Ohio implementing a fiber optic service are Cincinnati Education and Research Center, NW Ohio Schools Consortium (Toledo);One Cleveland (Case Western, City of Cleveland, Cleveland Public Library); Butler County; City of Wadsworth, City of Galion, Denver, UTOPIA {Consortium of Utah cities) Vancouver, BC, SCENIC -- California's version of Ohio's TFN. Bandwidth is becoming a vital infrastructure for the nation's cities. City Council Study Session page 14 April 12, 2004 Recommendation: Mr. McDaniel recommended that the City adopt a new vision: that DubLink would become a bandwidth initiative rather than a conduit initiative; DubLink would become a vital bandwidth infrastructure for the City and beyond; DubLink bandwidth would be in two forms: City-wide WiFi or "hot spot," and fiber optics. This effort would fall in line with another Council effort -- utility aesthetics. Council has budgeted annually in the CIP for utility burial. There are two ways Council's interest in utility aesthetics could be pursued: {1) burial of the utility lines at an estimated cost of $1.2 - $1.4M or {2) reconfiguring the electric lines and burial of telecommunications, at an estimated cost of $275,000. Mr. McDaniel stated that the vision is for the expansion of DubLink beyond the City of Dublin by partnership with the Third Frontier Network (TFN). This would link Dublin to the other TFN parties, such as The Ohio State University; create synergies between businesses, schools, the City, TFN; Ohio Supercomputer Center; colleges and universities; create a knowledge economy through that link; establish Dublin as Ohio's first TFN City (showed schematic of route map for new vision). Conclusion: The City would retain the 1997 objectives; assess and enable private investment in bandwidth deployment, both fiber and wireless, in the City of Dublin; cost out expansion of DubLink bandwidth, both internal and external; assess partnership opportunities - publiclpublic and public/private; provide a leadership role in developing a central Ohio institutional bandwidth network; asses a potential R&D park; and complete a utility aesthetics policy. Expansion of its role in the telecommunicationsfleld should result in exciting economic development possibilities far the City. Mr. Reiner stated that he would like to see this used as a tool in recruiting economic development proposals. He inquired if the Fishel Company is satisfied with this proposal. Are they recovering their investment? The Fishel representative responded that they are satisfied, although they have not recovered all of their investment due to the rapid change in telecommunications. However, this is the wave of the future. Mr. Keenan inquired how this would be advertised to the community. Mr. McDaniel responded that the City would indicate that it now has multi-service providers. Having more bandwidth in different forms is vital to competition in the developing market. Mr. Dunn stated that at a small usage level, there is much competition. The concept would be to secure availability for the large users. The City would need to deploy more fiber through the DubLink system to be able to attract the heavy-duty users. Currently, Mr. McDaniel is working on a formal plan for expansion of DubLink. Mr. McDaniel noted that this opportunity has significant potential for the City. By partnering to run fiber outside of Dublin to identified critical areas as a pipeline, Dublin could recoup some investment. It would also be pursued as an economic development tool. City Council Study Session April 12, 2004 page 15 Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher inquired if a proposal would be ready for the CIP hearings. Mr. McDaniel responded that he could provide it at that time. Mrs. Boring inquired if there is State law that would limit this effort. Mr. Dunn responded that it is a legal regulatory issue and does not violate any current law. There was an 11~" Circuit Court case regarding this issue. The Supreme Court indicated that "entities" does not include municipalities. They are not intended to regulate subdivisions of the State -Ohio law still stands. Mr. Reiner inquired if satellite transmission is anticipated to eclipse the present mode. Mr. Dunn responded that usage of satellite transmission has increased tremendously. Satellites use radio frequency and have limitations. Fiber can send more capacity. Mr. Reiner inquired who is driving the opposition. Mr. Dunn responded that significant private industry money has gone into the effort to stop governments from providing these services. However, the Third Frontier Network at universities is thriving -18 universities will be online this summer. This has provided a huge capacity and ability to collaborate on research and education, but there is also the opportunity for collaboration with businesses. Mr. McDaniel stated that the City has indicated to TFN that Dublin is interested in being their City model for a pilot program. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher expressed Council's support for staff's pursuit of this effort as an economic development tool and for Dublin staying on the cutting edge of this opportunity. The meeting was adjourned at 9:45 p.m. Clerk of Council