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HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-29-02 Finance Com Minutes-Hotel-Motel Tax GrantsDublin City Council Finance Committee April 29, 2002 Attending: Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher, Chair Mr. Kranstuber Mr. Lecklider Ms. Gibson, Director of Taxation Ms. Puskarcik, Director of Community Relations Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m., noting that tonighYs meeting has been scheduled to discuss pending hoteUmotel tax grant applications. The Committee will hear presentations from the applicants, and at the conclusion of the presentations will deliberate on the recommendations to be made to City Council. The recommendations will be brought to City Council at the Monday, May 6 Council meeting. Dublin Kiwanis 37~' Annual Frog Jump - Request is for Funding of City Services (estimate $4,000) Representing the Kiwanis were Dr. Tim Edwards and Jack Popovich. Dr. Edwards noted that the event is being moved from Historic Dublin to Coffman Park this year as a result of some of the merchants' complaints about impact on their businesses (parking, street closing, etc.). In addition, there may be a need to move the event neat year, due to the stormwater sewer construction project, so it seemed reasonable to move it this year. There maybe less need for special duty police officers, as there will be no road closing in conjunction with the event. The Kiwanis are working to expand the event with the new venue, but their goal is to keep the expenses down for the participants by seeking sponsorships. In the past, they have requested funding of up to $4,000 for City services -parks and rec, trash removal, safety services -but they expect the expenses to be less this year, due to the elimination of need for Police services. However, they are interested in having the D.A.R.E. officers participate, and wondered if the City could cover the expenses associated with their presence. Until last year, the City had provided tables, chairs and tents, so they are hoping to cover some of these costs with the grant as well. The City has helped to promote the event through Dublin Life magazine. Mr. Kranstuber stated that it may be reasonable to relocate the event in view of the construction for Old Dublin neat year, but in the long run, he would like to see it moved back to Historic Dublin. Council has worked hard to schedule activities in Old Dublin to increase foot traffic and showcase the businesses, and this was a successful event. Hopefully, the issues can be worked out and this can be reassessed in the future. Mr. Edwards stated that the park is a perfect setting for the event-they do not have space limitations as they had in Historic Dublin. Previously, they were concerned with conflicts with church events in the area, etc. He summarized that they are requesting up to $4,000, although last year's expenses ran about $26-2800. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher asked staff for confirmation of City service expense. Ms. Puskarcik responded that $300 is allocated for signage; $1,821 for Grounds and Facilities staff expenses, including a City Hall monitor and rest room monitor, rental of bleachers and trash removal; and $921 for recreation services staff; for a total of approximately $3,000. Finance Committee April 29, 2002 Page 2 Mr. Lecklider asked for clarification about their needs for tables and chairs. Dr. Edwards stated that they have been reimbursed for some of that expense in the past. Ms. Puskarcik gave background on the City's equipment designated for special events, and that a decision was made not to lend out tents, tables, and chairs other than for civic association block party events due to the wear and tear on the equipment which was then not available for City sponsored events. They do have bleachers, PA systems, generators available for use. Dr. Edwards stated that the civic association trailer package is booked up for the entire summer. Mr. Lecklider commented that he, too, is hopeful that at some point, the event can be relocated back to Historic Dublin. Arthritis Foundation 20~' Annual Arthritis Foundation Class Auto Show & Cruise-In -Request $10.000 for Security/City Services Representing the Arthritis Foundation was Kendra Grant. Robin Rankin represented the DCVB. Ms. Grant explained that they are requesting $10,000 toward the City services expense related to the Classic Auto Show & Cruise-in. This is the 20~' anniversary of the event. The purpose of the event is to increase public awareness of their work in improving the quality of life with arthritis. They offer programs through the DCRC and this type of fund raising helps to support their educational outreach programs. This event is very labor intensive and has been advertised extensively. She briefly described the events which will take place in the Metro Center area on July 5 and 6. Admission is $15 per carload for each day of the event. They have secured extensive advertising support, as evidenced in the posters she displayed to Committee members. In response to Ms. Puskarcik, Ms. Grant stated that $2,000 is the donation level which provides advertising placement on the poster. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher asked about the history of grants for this event. Ms. Gibson stated that they have not received any City grants for the past five years or possibly longer. Ms. Rankin, DCVB confirmed the economic impact of the event for the City, as outlined in the letter they have provided in support of the funding request. There were no additional questions. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher stated that the Committee will deliberate on all of the applications, following the presentations, and the recommendations will be brought to City Council on Monday, May 6. Dublin Singers -Request for $15.000 for Carnegie Hall Trin Beth Marsh, Past President and Nova Vulanich, President represented the Dublin Singers. Ms. Marsh noted that the Dublin Singers have been invited to perform at Carnegie Hall in December, and the group is requesting $15,000 to defray the performance costs. Mary Fran Cassidy, Director of the Dublin Singers, brought a former group, The Cambridge Singers, to sing with John Rutter 10 years ago at Carnegie Hall. She has maintained an association with the composer/conductor, and the Dublin Singers was invited to sing at Carnegie Hall in December. She added that the Dublin Finance Committee April 29, 2002 Page 3 Singers are performing one of Mr. Rutter's works which was last performed at Carnegie Hall 10 years ago. The total cost for each singer to participate is $900 which covers hotel, Carnegie Hall fees, and the conductor's fees. This does not include transportation, food or other tours while in NYC. There are 44 singers attending, and the goal is to allow everyone to participate, including those with financial hardship situations. Several of the singers have approached the Board regarding their financial need -many are young adults without the financial resources of some of the senior members. The $40,000 cost for the trip is twice the annual budget of the Dublin Singers, and the time for fundraising is limited. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher asked about the other sources of funding for the trip. Ms. Marsh stated that the Dublin Fund has provided a grant of $5,000, the Dublin Arts Council has donated $2,000 (over and above the annual funding to the Singers of $10,000) for the trip. The advertising dollars from the spring show have resulted in $2,000 for the Carnegie trip. They are also working on securing contributions from major corporations in Dublin. Ms. Vulanich noted that the group offers adults opportunities for performance arts. The Singers have participated in numerous community events, such as the Arts and Music Festival, the Irish Festival, etc. The Singers have two concerts per year-the spring concert and the Christmas concert. The Christmas performance is a free concert, and donations given by those who attend are directed to the Faith Mission. Last year, the group raised $525 for the Faith Mission. Ms. Marsh explained that the Dublin Singers are funded by a grant from the Dublin Arts Council of @$10,000 per year. Mr. Kranstuber explained that there are more requests for grants than there are funds available this year, so the Committee will deliberate following the presentations to make a recommendation to Council for the 6 applications pending. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher pointed out that if individual members make a donation to the organization in lieu of paying their own expenses for the trip, the member may be eligible to obtain a matching donation from their employer. This may be a way to raise additional funds. The Committee thanked the group for their presentation. Ohio Wildlife Center Children's Nature Classroom -Request for $37.000 Representing the Center were Dr. Burton and David Hoy. Dr. Burton explained that the Center is anon-profit organization in Central Ohio. They rehabilitate and relocate injured and displaced wildlife. They promote the appreciation of Ohio's native wildlife species through rehabilitation and education programs. They have recently been given an opportunity to fulfill their mission by purchasing a 19.4 acres tract less than a mile north of Shawnee Hills in Delaware County. He noted that they have a partnership with the City of Dublin to handle wildlife issues for the residents and corporate residents. On staff, they have an education director and assistant director who last year presented over 225 programs to school groups, adults, civic group, eta The property has a 4,000 square foot cedar exterior home that looks like a nature center, and they are in the process of converting it into a public space to accommodate day camps Finance Committee April 29, 2002 Page 4 during the summer, children's and school groups year round, providing hands-on experience with wildlife and biology. There are about 35 animals used for educational programs. The lower level would be remodeled for the educational programs, and the garage would be converted to classrooms. This would provide ahands-on, laboratory experience. The Ohio Wildlife Center is the largest rehabilitation center in this part of the country and has hosted national meetings of the National Wildlife Rehabilitation Association. They have served as a community resource for many years, and now have an opportunity to take their mission to the next level. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher asked for clarification on their support, as outlined on the second page of the project description. It indicates that the Columbus Foundation provided $30,000 for infrastructure needs for the total property. What were the $25,000 in funds from the Kenneth Scott Charitable Trust designated for? Dr. Burton responded that the $25,000 grant was for a raptor rehabilitation flight enclosure. The $37,000 being requested is for remodeling of the lower level of the house and converting of the garage. Windows will be added to facilitate wildlife viewing. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher noted that the requests for funding are double the available funds this year. What other funding sources are they pursuing? Dr. Burton responded that they have grant requests before the Columbus Zoo Conservation Committee, AEP for the geothermaUheating system for the facility, Cardinal Health. Most of the money to purchase the property came from two individuals -the property is owned free and clear of debt. They want to develop the Center into a nature center to be used as a major community resource for education as well as promoting conservation in the community. Mr. Hoy stated that a grant from the City of Dublin would assist them in leveraging other funding with companies such as Huntington Bank. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher suggested they approach Ashland Chemical, as they are very committed to youth educational programs. As the facility is located in Delaware County, they should also approach county and corporate entities in Delaware County. The Wildlife Center Education Director then displayed some snapping turtles which are part of their traveling nature education programs. Mr. Hoy stated that they believe the Center could be a nature destination for the City of Dublin. Dr. Burton noted that they have 5 full-time staff, and over 95 percent of what they have accomplished is because of their volunteers. They have 40,000 hours of volunteer time donated each year. They are sponsoring a "Wild Night Out" in conjunction with the City and other agencies on May 8 at the DCRC. Mr. Hoy noted that the volunteer commitment is astounding. They have a passion for the animals and are very committed to the mission. The Committee thanked them for their presentation. Historic Dublin Association Community Plaza- Request for $30,473 for Design and Construction of a Pedestrian Park in the Historic District Finance Committee April 29, 2002 Page 5 Representing the Historic Dublin Association (HDA) was Tom Bassett. Mr. Bassett explained that Mr. Frimerman is working out of town, and he is no longer President of the Association. The proposed project is for a South High Street Community Plaza, to be located on City-owned property adjacent to the Dublin Convention and Visitor's Bureau. It is between the Visitors Center and the Village Tavern. The proposal is for a small community park on that space to enhance the pedestrian concept of the historic district. They have learned since the proposal was submitted that the Dublin Kiwanis want to place their frog sculpture in this same area which would fit in nicely - it could perhaps replace the fountain. The other option is to have the work done in house by City staff. The project fits nicely with the bed tax criteria as outlined in their submittal. Mr. Kranstuber asked if staff has been consulted on this proposal. Mr. Bassett noted that this is the first step in the process, although members of the Planning division do attend HDA meetings and are aware of this. Mr. Kranstuber asked if this has been reviewed by ARB. Mr. Bassett indicated that it has not. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher asked if Mr. Hahn, Director of Grounds/Facilities, has been consulted on this plan. Mr. Bassett indicated that he has not. Mr. Kranstuber asked if this would conflict with the storm sewer project. Mr. Bassett stated that they do not believe it will conflict. Mr. Kranstuber asked if he has consulted with Engineering on the plan. Mr. Bassett said he has not. Mr. Kranstuber stated that this would be an important consideration. He asked if there are other funding sources being considered. Mr. Bassett said that this would be the primary source of funding. Mr. Kranstuber stated that it is a good concept, but it may be premature in view of other activity in the area and projects. There are limited funds available this year-twice as much requested as funds available. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher suggested that Development staff meet with HDA to review the proposal, and especially in conjunction with the Kiwanis Frog sculpture installation. Mr. Kranstuber suggested that this project could possibly be funded as a small capital budget item instead of from hotel/motel tax. Mr. Bassett stated that this would enhance the pedestrian uses in Old Dublin. The Committee thanked him for his presentation. National Intercollegiate Flying Association - SAFECON 2002 -Request of $10,000 Representing the group were John Roth, Kristin Holby and Jeff Lichtenberg. Finance Committee April 29, 2002 Page 6 Mr. Roth indicated that the Association is a nationwide non-profit organization which sponsors competition for accredited flying schools. It encourages students in flight programs throughout the country to improve their skills and provides an opportunity to network. The event is to be held in 3 weeks at Don Scott Field, with event headquarters at the Marriott Northwest. Mr. Kranstuber noted that the DCVB indicates that 460 rooms will be rented in Dublin hotels during the event from May 11 through 18, and that the total economic impact for the area is estimated at $1,032,800. Mr. Roth indicated that the hotels offered on the web site are all in Dublin, in order to minimize travel time for the participating teams. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher asked what the funding requested would be used for. Mr. Roth responded that primarily it would be used to fund a reception for judges and coaches and the main event to be held on Friday night at the Made From Scratch facility. It will also be used for food for judges during the event. Mr. Kranstuber asked what contribution OSU is making to the event. Mr. Roth responded that they would match up to $2,000 in donations for the event. Their main contribution is use of the Don Scott airport. Mr. Lecklider asked how many aircraft would participate. Mr. Roth responded that somewhere between 75 to 90 aircraft participate, mostly single engine. Mr. Kranstuber noted that this certainly meets the criteria of putting heads in beds. And the fact that the event headquarters is at the Marriott Northwest is favorable, although the event itself is being held outside of Dublin. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher explained that the Committee will deliberate following their presentation, and a recommendation will be brought to Council on Monday, May 6 for Council's vote. If the group agrees with the Committee's recommendation, there is no need to attend the Council meeting. However, they can appeal the recommendation if they desire. A letter with the recommendation will be sent to the group shortly. The Committee thanked them for their presentation. Committee Deliberation Ms. Puskarcik offered information regarding the grant approved for FC Soccer on Apri122. The $10,000 grant is for City services, and the estimate the applicant provided was lower. Ms. Gibson stated that they were given the cost of City services, plus additional grant money not to exceed $10,000. Ms. Puskarcik noted that some bleachers needed to be moved for the event and they contacted the City to do this work. Perhaps if their grant had been more specific in terms of the City services to be provided, they would not have requested this additional work, but would have done it themselves. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher asked how this issue can be resolved in the future. Finance Committee April 29, 2002 Page 7 Ms. Puskarcik stated that staff will tighten up the estimates on City services in order to be more accurate. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher stated that the Committee would need more specific information on City services to be provided and the cost at the time of the hearing. Ms. Puskarcik stated that she will work to have the various divisions involved sign off on the estimates prior to the review. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher stated that staff should also contact the DCVB regarding the timeline for the applications and the staff sign-off needed prior to the hearing. They are often the primary contact for groups. Ms. Puskarcik agreed to do this. Mr. Kranstuber asked that Ms. Gibson list the total funds available and the requests on the wallboard. Dublin Kiwanis Frog Jumn -Request for Cost of City Services Estimated at $4.000 Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher noted that they have been traditionally funded for the cost of City services. With the move to Coffman Park, there will be reduced police services because there won't be the need to close the street and related expense. However, if they are suggesting participation of D.A.R.E. officers, how would this be funded? Ms. Puskarcik noted that the D.A.R.E. officers were not part of the request made with their application as reviewed by Community Relations. This must be an enhancement they would like to offer for the event. Brief discussion followed about unencumbered funds available for distribution, which total 65,000. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher asked about the funds allocated for the Ohio Youth Summit. Ms. Gibson stated that those funds were never encumbered, so they do not affect the available amount of hoteUmotel taxes at this point. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher noted that the City services request, as outlined by the applicants, total approximately $3,000. This does not include, however, the cost for providing D.A.R.E. officers at the event. Mr. Kranstuber suggested that the grant be for City services, up to a maximum of $4,000. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher noted that the grant could be for City services only, as the purpose of police services in the past was for traffic safety reasons - not to enhance the event. Mr. Lecklider wondered if the Police division would have funding available for the D.A.R.E. officers pay for this event. It was the consensus to recommend up to $4,000 for City services. Mr. Lecklider asked if the Historic Dublin application would be considered for hotel/motel tax or as a small capital budget item - it would make a difference in the funds available for other applications. Mr. Kranstuber agreed. Ms. Gibson noted that CABA will be submitting an application in September for the City services expense for the Tournament- it is generally about $7,000. Finance Committee April 29, 2002 Page 8 Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher stated that in terms of the Historic Dublin proposal, she will recommend to Council that they meet with staff to review the project for inclusion in the capital budget. Mr. Kranstuber agreed that this is City land, and should be under the supervision of the City staff. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher noted that she appreciates the fact that Historic Dublin brought this application forward, so that it could be brought to Council's attention. Arthritis Foundation -Request for Funding of City Services - $10,000 Mr. Kranstuber asked why there had been no requests in recent years for funding. Ms. Gibson stated that the Finance Committee in past years had encouraged them to use this as seed money, so they did not apply for those years. They have a new director at this time. Ms. Gibson added that the DCVB worked very hard to retain this event in Dublin. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher stated that the high fees for Dublin services reduce the monies raised for their event. Mr. Kranstuber stated that he would be in favor of granting them up to $10,000 in City services. Mr. Lecklider stated that a compelling argument can be made with the revenues generated from the rooms occupied at hotels in Dublin. Discussion followed about the worthwhile programs the Arthritis Foundation sponsors at the DCRC and the many citizens who utilize the programs. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher agreed that while this is not a bed tax criteria, the educational and recreational programs they sponsor are a worthwhile service provided to Dublin citizens. The consensus was to recommend a grant of $10,000. (* see page 10 -amount revised) Dublin Singers -Expenses Related to Carnegie Hall Performance - 2002 Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher stated that in terms of criteria, this would fall under the cultural arts enhancement, although a special event for this purpose is generally staged in Dublin. On the other hand, it is a unique opportunity for the individuals involved and will generate publicity for Dublin. She could support this, but not at the $15,000 level requested. Mr. Kranstuber agreed, noting that there are no hoteUmotel tax revenues and a direct cultural benefit is not being provided to citizens of Dublin. It does help an organization that benefits the City of Dublin with their other events. Mr. Lecklider stated that the event would certainly enhance the Dublin Singers reputation which in turn benefits the City. Mr. Kranstuber suggested a range of $8-10,000. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher stated that, to date, the Singers have a $5,000 grant from the Dublin Fund and $2,000 from the Dublin Arts Council. In terms of being consistent, she believes that a $5,000 grant could be reasonable. This activity is one of personal choice and doesn't meet all of the bed tax criteria. Mr. Kranstuber stated that he would support a higher grant. In prior years, a number of arts organizations came before Council requesting grants, and the direction was to fund them under the Dublin Arts Council umbrella. For that reason, the funding request is made directly to the DAC, who in turn is funded by the City's bed tax. Finance Committee April 29, 2002 Page 9 Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher noted that the system seems to be working, as the Dublin Singers regular operational budget is funded adequately by the DAC. Because the DAC did not know of this opportunity in advance, the DAC was not able to fund this event. Their discretionary funds allocated for the event were $2,000. The consensus of the Committee was to recommend a grant of $5,000. (* * see page 10 -amount revised) Ohio Wildlife Center -Children's Nature Classroom -Request $37.000 Mr. Kranstuber noted that the applicants are very enthusiastic and have done a lot of work on this. The problem is in making a connection Dublin. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher stated that in terms of criteria, it would fall under other projects which would enhance Dublin. Although it is in Delaware County, it is a great project. Whether Dublin is the appropriate entity for funding is another question. Mr. Kranstuber stated that the Columbus Foundation would have the same type of location issues - funding something in Delaware County. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher stated that they may have had a benefactor with a designated gift for wildlife. Mr. Lecklider noted that they do provide a valuable service for the City of Dublin under the partnership agreement. The educational benefits of such a facility would be a benefit to all of the residents of Dublin and the surrounding area. Mr. Kranstuber stated that he would like to make some contribution to help them succeed in this venture. He does prefer donating monies to a permanent, capital-type project versus a single event. Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher agreed that this would be a permanent, ongoing resource and perhaps it is worthy of a high level of funding. Council could require that a plaque listing the City of Dublin as a benefactor be displayed. The consensus of the Committee was to recommend $25,000. Mr. Kranstuber suggested that staff could meet with them to facilitate the recognition for the funding. The Historic Dublin Association -South High Street Community Plaza- Request 30.473 This application will be addressed in the capital budget, and direction given to them to review the proposal with staff. National Intercollegiate Flyin~ Association SAFECON 2002 Mr. Kranstuber stated that the criteria of hoteUmotel tax revenue generation is certainly met with this application. He is disappointed that OSU would not provide additional funding for this event. Mr. Lecklider stated that the number of rooms nights in Dublin certainly support the grant request. Finance Committee April 29, 2002 Page 10 Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher stated that the event is not actually being held in Dublin, so she would support a range of $5-7,500. Mr. Lecklider agreed. Following further consideration of available funds, it was the consensus of the Committee to recommend a grant to the National Intercollegiate Flying Association of $7,500. It was the consensus of the Committee to recommend $8,000 for the Arthritis Foundation in keeping with the grants made to other applicants. It was the consensus of the Committee to recommend $7,500 for the Dublin Singers. Ms. Gibson will prepare a draft letter regarding the Historic Dublin Association proposal for Ms. Chinnici-Zuercher's approval. The remaining notification letters will be sent tomorrow, and the hearing at Council will be scheduled for Monday, May 6, 2002. The meeting was adjourned at 8:40 p.m. Clerk of Council