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HomeMy WebLinkAbout01/31/2005 RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting DAYTON lEGAL BLANK, INC., FORM NO. 10148 January 31 , 2005 Held 20 Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher called the regular meeting of Dublin City Council to order at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, January 31,2005 at the Dublin Municipal Building. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Mr. Keenan led the Pledge of Allegiance. ROLL CALL Present were: Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher, Vice Mayor Lecklider, Mrs. Boring, Mr. McCash, Mr. Reiner, Mr. Keenan and Ms. Salay. Staff members present were: Ms. Brautigam, Mr. Smith, Mr. McDaniel, Mr. Ciarochi, Mr. Hahn, Chief Epperson, Mr. Bird, Mr. Harding, Mr. Hammersmith, Ms. Puskarcik and Ms. Hoyle. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Ms. Salay moved approval of the minutes of the January 3, 2005 Council meeting. Mr. Lecklider seconded the motion. Vote on the motion: Mr. Reiner, yes; Ms. Salay, yes; Mr. Lecklider, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Mrs. Boring, yes; Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher, yes; Mr. McCash, yes. CORRESPONDENCE The Clerk reported that there was no correspondence requiring action of Council. CITIZEN COMMENTS Wallace Maurer. 7451 Dublin Road stated that: 1. There are two nice articles in the Council packet, one regarding the Mayor and the other regarding Council Member John Reiner. He encouraged everyone to read them. 2. Recently, he had a meeting at National City Bank and picked up a book entitled, "2004-2005 Dublin Chamber of Commerce Directory and Buyers' Guide." On the first page, there was a shocking misuse of language, which read: 'What many do not know is that Dublin's Division of Economic Development is willing to 'get its hands dirty'to help businesses locate incentives and navigate opportunities to enhance or grow their business in Dublin." In today's culture of government and corporation coziness and corruption, the words were not well chosen. He suggested something more appropriate: "The creative pioneers in the government and citizenry of Dublin in the last 15 years have turned the city into one of the civic wonders of this country. They welcome you to become part of what outsiders passing through Dublin invariably see as magical, haunting splendor." He does not know the author of the language in the advertisement, but he would encourage the City to make a counter statement. 3. Perhaps Council has wondered if he has "what it takes" to pursue the Kindra firing. It would appear that three aggressive steps are in order: First, he has found that he cannot recite the Pledge to Allegiance in this room, due to the phrase, "with liberty and justice for aiL" Therefore, beginning at the next Council meeting, he will not make that pledge. From the lobby, he will listen to Council as they recite those six words. He added that steps two and three would be recognizable when they occur. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher suggested that Mr. Maurer share his economic development language with Ms. Puskarcik. In the future, she may have an opportunity to use a quote from one of Dublin's residents. LEGISLATION RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting DAYTON LEGAL BLANK. INC.. FORM NO 10148 January .j-I, LUUO t-'age L Held 20 SECOND READING/PUBLIC HEARING CODE AMENDMENTS Ordinance 69-04(Amended) Amending the Development Standards and Approval Criteria in Section 153.115 of the Dublin Codified Ordinances (Zoning Code) - Corridor Development District (Case No. 04-080 ADM). Mr. Bird noted that this ordinance previously came before Council upon the recommendation of the Planning Commission. Some clarifications were requested and the legislation was referred back to the Commission. The memo in Council's packets provides an explanation of the amended language, which is exclusively related to signage within the Corridor Development District. Review of signage by the Planning Commission would occur whenever: . A building is constructed or modified, and as part of that new construction new signage is proposed. . Signage is modified in such a way that the modification results in a deviation from the Dublin Codified Ordinances. . A previously approved Planning and Zoning Commission signage package is modified in any way. . Review is mandated in the text approving the development. If a signage application meets the requirements of this ordinance, it would proceed through the normal administrative review and approval process. Ms. Salay inquired if the intent is that if there is no deviation from the sign code, the Planning Commission would not have any purview over the signage. Mr. Bird responded affirmatively. Mrs. Boring added that is correct, with the exception of sign packages that are part of a rezoning. In those cases, even if the signage meets Code regulations, the application must come back to the Planning Commission to approve the package. The administrative review would apply only if there was an existing sign not part of a rezoning. Mr. Smith stated that in the case when the zoning text has signage included, the developer must return to P&Z if they want to change the signage section of the zoning text. In the case where the signage is part of the whole package, revisions must be heard by P&Z. The reasoning is that if P&Z has acted on the development, they should be the reviewing body. The developer, of course, retains appellate rights. However, when a business is within a COD district and the business owner does not want to build, but simply wants to change signage and nothing else, administrative review/approval would be sufficient. Mr. McCash inquired if the signage were not part of a previously approved COD, the signage would then receive no review, other than by staff? Mr. Bird responded that is correct. Mr. McCash stated that the overall intent of a COD is to deal primarily with the aesthetics and land use issues in that area. Signage is an aesthetics issue. It is not a health, safety and welfare matter. It makes no sense that one applicant who wants to change a sign in compliance with the Sign Code must undergo full Planning Commission review, simply because the development was initially part of a COD review. Yet another applicant who wants to change a sign in compliance with the Sign Code may apply for a permit and be approved. It makes more sense for everything within a COD to be required to undergo P&Z review, because the City is trying to address the aesthetics of the district. This constitutes discrimination. Mr. Smith responded that this is a common occurrence throughout Dublin. Much of the older zoning text didn't include signage requirements. In the last 10 years, RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting DAYTON LEGAL BlANK, INC., FORM NO 10148 January ;j 1, ;WUO Page 3 Held 20 signage requirements have been included in the zoning text. He inquired if Mr. McCash's recommendation is that all items within a COO, even if never before reviewed by P&Z, be required to have P&Z approval to amend their signage. Mr. McCash responded that if the City wants to be true to the intent of the COD - to address the aesthetics and land use within that area -- a full signage review would be appropriate. If a development had not been reviewed by P&Z in the past, this would give the City the opportunity to review the aesthetics, and perhaps improve the overall aesthetics of the district. Mrs. Boring asked, if that should occur, what justification would P&Z have for denying an application if it is in compliance with the Sign Code? Mr. Smith responded that the staff report would indicate if the applicant is simply changing the name on the sign with no change in the other components. There would be no basis for a denial unless there were a change in color, size or lighting that also was not in compliance with Code. He recommended passage of the legislation tonight. However, he will discuss Mr. McCash's suggestion with Mr. Bird and others. Mr. McCash suggested tabling the legislation until staff has had an opportunity to consider his perspective. He noted that this is part of the COD overlay. Mr. Smith agreed that it is part of the overlay, but in his view, there would be no advantage in tabling the legislation. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher suggested that Council take a vote. If the ordinance does not pass, Council can give additional direction. _.,,#/> Mr. Lecklider inquired what the drawback would be in delaying action for two to four weeks to allow P&Z and staff to consider Mr. McCash's suggestions before the ordinance comes back to Council. Mr. Smith commented that there is no pending case that could be affected. It would involve re-writing the legislation and forwarding it for P&Z review. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher inquired how many cases would have been affected in the last three to five years? What would the cost be to the developer and to the City if this requirement were in effect? Mr. Smith responded that Legal staff would investigate that issue. Mrs. Boring asked staff to summarize the discussion that took place during the P&Z review. Mr. Bird responded that the Planning Commission's position was that if the case were either new construction, a modification, previously part of a development that received P&Z review, or a deviation from Code - it should have P&Z review. The Planning Commission did not want to act as a Sign Commission. They believed that staff could administratively determine if the application were in compliance with . City Code. Mr. McCash stated that, currently, when a development undergoes a COD review and a sign is approved, if a short time later that business and sign is sold, the new owner, to effect a change of the name on the sign, must undergo P&Z review. Yet, another business, not part of an earlier COD review, would not need to do so to effect the same change. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting DAYTON LEGAL BlANK, INC., FORM NO 10148 January j 1, ~UUO Page 4 Held 20 Mrs. Boring stated that it is the zoning text that makes the difference. The City requires any development which includes a zoning text to have P&Z review/approval for any modification. Mr. McCash responded that businesses with a zoning text in a planned district need only an administrative review for a change in signage. Mrs. Boring stated that there has always been concern that COD guidelines were not sufficiently strict. This was intended as a way to improve that. Mr. McCash noted that this ordinance deals with the COD overlay, and yet treats businesses within the COD overlay differently. Mrs. Boring stated that some businesses are "grandfathered" and that is normal procedure. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher suggested a motion is in order to bring this to conclusion. Mr. McCash responded that he would vote "no" on the legislation before Council tonight. It creates a disparity between property owners and does not meet the intent of the COD overlay district. Mr. McCash moved to amend the ordinance to include review of all COD siqnaqe, whether in a planned district text or not. Mr. Lecklider seconded the motion. He asked if the amended legislation would be ~ reviewed again by the Planning Commission. ! Mr. Smith responded that as a courtesy, it would, as it constitutes a modification . from what they had sent to Council. Mr. Keenan inquired if the City has other corridor development districts. Mr. McCash responded that this is the only corridor development district in Dublin - the area bounded by Martin Road, Sawmill Road, 1-270 and Riverside Drive. Mrs. Boring inquired, assuming this amendment passes, if an application is made for a sign which was never a part of zoning text, and the sign is in compliance with the sign code, would P&Z have any right to request something different? Mr. McCash responded that Section 1 of the ordinance reads: "The design of new structures and new additions to existing structures, including new site improvements shall take into account architectural style, general design, arrangement, texture, material and color so that the image of Dublin is made as a quality community." A change-out in a sign could be considered a site improvement. The Planning Commission would be reviewing the new sign to ensure that it fits the image of Dublin as a quality community. Mrs. Borinq requested permission to amend Mr. McCash's motion to add to Section 1-G that the COD review shall be inclusive of all signage. ........ There was no objection. . I ~. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher invited public testimony. Wallace Maurer. 7451 Dublin Road referred to the December 8th memo in Council packets, the top of page 8, 1st paragraph, lines 3-4, where there is a reference to a community development district. Is "community" a misprint? Ms. Brautigam responded that it is a misprint; it should state "corridor." Mr. Maurer inquired what has prompted all of this legislative activity. Have there been violations or challenges to these provisions? Mr. Bird stated that developers have raised questions. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting DAYTON LEGAL BlANK, INC., FORM NO 10148 January J 1, LUU::> ~age 0- Held 20 Mr. Smith added that when cases have been before the Planning Commission, questions have been raised about the meaning of "aesthetics," and whether it applies to signs. The City has always interpreted it that way, but there was a need to clarify it to avoid future confusion about whether signage is part of the aesthetics. Mr. Maurer noted that there are a couple of references to a "quality community." At some point, that should also be defined. He will try to tackle that definition -- there are all sorts of moral and philosophical implications. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher suggested that if Mr. Maurer pursues the definition of a quality community, he share that definition with Carson Combs who is leading the update process for the Community Plan. It would be helpful to have the language in that discussion. Vote on the motion to amend the Ordinance: Mr. Reiner, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Mrs. Boring, yes; Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher, yes; Ms. Salay, yes; Mr. McCash, yes; Mr. Lecklider, yes. (The ordinance was referred to Planning Commission as amended) Ordinance 84-04 Amending Sections 137.01 and 137.08 of the Dublin Codified Ordinances Regarding Unlawful Manufacturing, Importation, Possession, Purchase, Sale, or Transfer of Assault Weapons. Mr. Smith stated that it was Legal staff's intention to schedule this hearing for the February ih Council meeting. They have communicated that date to several people who plan to attend that meeting. Therefore, they request that this ordinance be postponed to the February 7th meeting. It was the consensus of Council to postpone the hearing until the February 7th Council meeting. BID AWARD Ordinance 01-05 Accepting the Lowest/Best Bid for the Killilea Park Project in the City of Dublin, Ohio. There were no additional questions. Vote on the Ordinance: Ms. Salay, yes; Mr. Lecklider, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Mr. McCash, yes; Mrs. Boring, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher, yes. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INCENTIVE Ordinance 02-05 Authorizing the Provision of Certain Incentives for Purposes of Relocating the Operations of Automation and Control Technology, Inc. (ACT) and Its Workforce to the City, and Authorizing the Execution of an Economic Development Agreement. Ms. Brautigam noted that a map has been provided indicating the location of the proposed site. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher invited public testimony. Wallace Maurer, 7451 Dublin Road inquired the grounds for an anticipated expense to attract 28-78 employees. Is there a projected profit curve? Mr. McDaniel responded that when the City discusses an economic development agreement with a company, the company is asked to project their growth in terms of jobs. That determines what the annual tax withholdings will be to the community. If the projections are reasonable, the City accepts them. I RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting DAYTON LEGAL BLANK, INC., FORM NO. 10148 January :11, LUUt> Page 6 Held 20 Mr. Maurer inquired if the City requests hard evidence, such as a profit curve for the past 10 years to legitimize that expectation. Mr. McDaniel responded that the City does not. The company must meet the future target withholdings to receive the incentive. The City works with the company to understand what their growth path is. If it appears adequate to warrant an incentive, based on what the City has arranged with other companies, it is used as the basis to determine the incentive that would be provided. Vote on the Ordinance: Mrs. Boring, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Mr. Lecklider, yes; Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher, yes; Mr. McCash, yes; Ms. Salay, yes; Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher noted that Council has identified as a goal the retention and expansion of Dublin companies as well as bringing new companies to Dublin. This is a good example of the City's ability to attract a new company that will offer excellent job opportunities in the future. She asked Mr. McDaniel to introduce the ACT representatives. Charles Totel. President of Automation and Control TechnoloQY (ACT), stated that they are excited about relocating their facility to Dublin. They anticipate this will be a significant change in their company's history. Mike Laquinta, ACT Vice President of New Business Development, stated that he also anticipates the move to Dublin, becoming part of the community and growing their business. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher thanked ACT for choosing Dublin. LAND ACQUISITION Ordinance 03-05 Authorizing the Purchase of a 0.447 Acre, More or Less, Tract of Land, from John D. Keith, Jr., Located at 6101 Avery Road, City of Dublin, County of Franklin, State of Ohio. Mr. Smith stated that agreement has been reached with the property owner. This is property that the City will need for the widening of Avery Road. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher inquired if the City anticipates paying this price per acre for future properties. Mr. Smith responded that it was necessary to purchase the entire property of 6101 Avery Road, which made it an expensive purchase. Mrs. Boring inquired if 0.447 acres included the dwelling. Mr. Smith confirmed that it does. After the road construction is completed, it is the City's intention to combine this property with the adjacent property to attract a business. That would recoup some of the purchase costs. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher invited public testimony. Wallace Maurer, 7451 Dublin Road stated that he has already received the ~ response to his question, which is that the $325,000 purchase price was not solely for half an acre of land but also included the building. ""^ Vote on the Ordinance: Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Ms. Salay, yes; Mr. McCash, yes; Mr. Lecklider, yes; Mrs. Boring, yes. INTRODUCTIONIFIRST READING - ORDINANCES REZONING Ordinance 04-05 Rezoning Approximately 86.3 Acres, Located Generally on the South Side of Perimeter Drive, Approximately 1,400 Feet West of Avery-Muirfield Drive, from PCD, Planned Commerce District {Perimeter West PCD and Riverside RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting DAYTON LEGAL BLANK. INC.. FORM NO 10148 January ;:S 1, LUUb page ( Held 20 PC D) to PUD, Planned Development District. (Case No. 04-150Z - Riverside PUD - Ohio Health Hospital - 6955 Perimeter loop Drive.) (Second reading/public hearing February 7 Council meeting) Ms. Salay introduced the ordinance. Mr. Bird stated that this is the first reading for the rezoning for the Ohio Health hospital and campus. A full presentation is scheduled for the public hearing on February 7. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher stated that the City is very pleased with Ohio Health's plans to locate a hospital in Dublin. Business First recently had an excellent article on the scope of services that will be offered at this hospital. Council anticipates the presentation next week. There will be a second reading/public hearing at the February 7 Council meeting. COMMUNITY PLAN Ordinance 05-05 Amending the 1997 Community Plan. (Case No. 04-180 ADM - Revision of Map 8 - Future land Use) Mr. Lecklider introduced the ordinance. Mr. Bird stated that this ordinance will effect changes in the Community Plan land use map, specifically in the Shier Rings corridor, consistent with recent discussions regarding the S.R. 161/U.S.33 Corridor. The attached memo summarizes the proposed changes and the rationale for them. A presentation is being prepared for the February 7 public hearing on this ordinance, and the contingent property owners have been notified of the hearing. Ms. Salay stated that during the 1997 process to develop the Community Plan, a significant amount of time was devoted to the land use map. This area was designated single-family residential because the traffic projections related to any other type of development would not work. There was concern that too great a burden not be placed upon the roadway system. Therefore, for next Monday's public hearing on this ordinance, she requests elaboration on the traffic modeling for the area. Many changes have been made in the City's infrastructure since then, but she would like to have that issue in particular addressed. There will be a second reading/public hearing at the February 7 Council meeting. COMPENSA nON PLAN Ordinance 06-05 Amending Certain Sections of Ordinance No. 98-96(Compensation Plan). Mr. Lecklider introduced the ordinance. Mr. Harding stated that it is customary at the beginning of each year for staff to propose amendments to the compensation plan for non-union City personnel. A detailed memo accompanies the ordinance, which describes the seven proposed amendments. Ms. Salay inquired if the pay grade ranges are unusually wide. Mr. Harding responded that the width of the pay grades was established by the last ,$'f compensation study, which was completed in 1995 or 1996. Staff has not adjusted them since that time. His understanding is that the current width is fairly common *'" in the salary administration field. Ms. Salay inquired if employees are clustered at the top in many cases. Mr. Harding responded that they are scattered throughout the range. Placement within the range is determined by experience and longevity with the City. Ms. Salay asked about the distinction between vacation, personal and sick time. Mr. Harding responded that personal time can be used at the discretion of the employee for any reason. Vacation leave can be used for any reason also, RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting DAYTON LEGAL BLANK, INC.. FORM NO 10148 January j 1. LUUO page I:S Held 20 although, typically, it is used for a larger block of time. Sick leave is used for actual illness or disability of the employee or a family member, which requires his/her time away from work. Mr. Lecklider inquired what division the Nature Education Coordinator would work for and if there is a job description for that position. Mr. Harding responded that the position would be included in the Parks area. A partial job description is prepared, which will be developed further. Mr. Lecklider inquired what the general job responsibilities would be. Mr. Harding responded that the position would be responsible for conducting nature education programs for community residents and youth groups that would have an interest in various forms of nature. Ms. Brautigam added that this individual would also assume the wildlife management aspect of the City's contract with Ohio Wildlife. They would also work with the Green Team, the City's group of citizen volunteers who meet bimonthly to work on environmental projects. This individual would take the lead on those projects. Mr. Lecklider inquired, for the sake of comparison, what type of position would be similar to this - a park ranger? Mr. Harding responded that it is a unique position in local government. They relied upon the internal point factoring system to designate this position as a pay grade 7. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher stated that it is difficult to understand how a pay grade could be established without a formal job description. She requested that a job description be provided for the February 7 Council meeting. Also, if this employee will assume some of the responsibilities that are currently performed by a contractor, she requests a list of those responsibilities. It will be helpful to know the amount of money that has been paid to an contractor to perform those duties. Ms. Brautigam clarified that the Ohio Wildlife contract is not being moved in-house. Ohio Wildlife will continue to provide the current service. Ms. Crandall previously handled the contract administration, and that responsibility will be transferred to this position. There will be a second reading/public hearing at the February 7 Council meeting. CODE AMENDMENT Ordinance 07-05 Amending Chapters 51 and 52 of the Codified Ordinances Establishing Capacity Charges for the Water and Sanitary Sewer Systems. Ms. Salay introduced the ordinance. Ms. Brautigam stated that last year, studies were conducted pertinent to this issue and it has continued to be a discussion topic for several months. As a result, 'f1 . Council determined to update the capacity charges. %, Mr. Keenan inquired what rate would apply to the Indian Run residents - the existing or the new rate? Would the construction of the utility lines to serve Indian Run be completed before the effective date of the capacity charge increases? Mr. Hammersmith stated that residents would be charged the fee in place when they apply for tap in. Mr. Keenan inquired about the estimated project completion date. Mr. Hammersmith responded that the project would be advertised for bids within the next month, and it is anticipated the project would be completed by the end of the summer. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting DAYTON LEGAL BLANK, INC., FORM NO. 10148 January j 1, LUU::> t"age ~ Held 20 Mr. Keenan noted that from his perspective, paying the higher tap in fees is unfair to the Indian Run residents. There were public meetings that indicated some capacity charge changes could be anticipated, but this increase would become , effective just 30-60 days before the potential tap-in date. Ms. Brautigam stated that it is her understanding that Ms. Grigsby has been in communication with the residents. She will request Ms. Grigsby to provide the information on applicable rates for the Indian Run residents in the next Council packet. Mrs. Boring stated that there was previous discussion regarding charging the tap-in fee that was current at the time the property was annexed into the City. She cannot recall whether or not Council adopted that policy. Mr. Lecklider stated that he agrees with Mr. Keenan's concern regarding fairness. However, the City is making a substantial investment to provide this service to these neighborhoods. An individual investment of $300.00 is minimal in comparison. Mr. Keenan agreed that it is a favorable arrangement for the residents. What he objects to is a rate increase 30 to 60 days before the tap-in is available. There will be a second reading/public hearing at the February 7 Council meeting. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT Ordinance 08-05 Authorizing the Provision of Certain Incentives for Purposes of Locating Mindleaders.Com, Inc. and Its Workforce to the City, and Authorizing the Execution of an Economic Development Agreement Ms. Salay introduced the ordinance. Mr. McDaniel stated that Council received a staff report concerning efforts to relocate this company to the City of Dublin by means of this economic development agreement. Mindleaders is an on-line learning service that specializes in the production of computer software to provide on-line training. Initially, the company would locate in Dublin with 180 employees, and they anticipate growing to 280 employees within five years. The City is offering a three-year, ten percent income tax rebate incentive. In addition, a technology grant of $275,000 would be paid over the first two years, with an extraordinary performance incentive on the back end for a total of seven years. Over a seven-year period, there would be a 21.8 percent incentive paid to this company. No location has been provided with this agreement, as the company is currently in negotiations regarding two separate locations, both of which are in Dublin. There will be a second reading/public hearing at the February 7 Council meeting. CITY MANAGER/STAFF REPORTS . Sister Cities Program for Dublin Ms. Puskarcik noted that Council was provided information in their December packet about the Sister Cities program. City Council members indicated interest in participating in such a program. Staff has contacted other cities that have participated in a Sister City program and discovered that the programs vary significantly. Staff has collected a summary of information. After reviewing, if Council is interested, staff could develop a model program for Council's consideration. Some items that would be addressed are: funding opportunities, volunteerism, staffing, the role of City Council and the role of citizens. Staff would require Council direction before developing a model. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting DAYTON LEGAL BLANK. INC.. FORM NO 10148 January ;Jl, ~UUb I-"age 1 U Held 20 Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher stated that at a recent U.S. Mayor's Conference, she attended a meeting regarding sister city programs. There are specific cities If throughout the world which are seeking a sister city relationship. Staff could contact the national organization to learn what other cities are interested in such a I program. She would be interested in moving forward with this exploration. ... Ms. Puskarcik suggested that after Council has reviewed the packet information, they email her any specific questions they would like to have addressed in the next presentation. Mr. McCash inquired if the Sister City Program offers participation with their list of approved cities, or could Dublin select its own city? His interest began in 2000- 2001 when representatives from Nalgrad, Russia visited Dublin. They were interested in learning how economic development is handled in the United States. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher responded that there is no restriction. Dublin could choose a sister city on its own. Ms. Puskarcik stated that a sister city relationship is often facilitated by elected officials from two cities in different parts of the world who have developed a friendly relationship. Other factors could also impact that choice, such as a preference for an Irish community or Japanese community. Mr. Lecklider stated that he is concerned about the potential burden that could be placed on staff. Several of these programs have been led by community volunteers. Given the level of demands that are placed upon City staff, it is important to be cautious. At some point in the future, there could be requests to fund additional Community Relations positions for this purpose. The program could be an interesting and enlightening endeavor, but, practically speaking, it would place an unnecessary burden upon staff. In his opinion, there are several other efforts that should take priority over this. Mr. McCash stated that could be controlled by the extent to which the City would be involved in the program. Ms. Puskarcik noted that some communities have a community board or a liaison with the city who handles the program. . Appointment of Acting Clerk Ms. Clarke noted the need for Council to appoint an acting clerk during the time periods Ms. Clarke and Ms. Beal will be absent from the City. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher moved to appoint Deputy Clerk Judy Beal as Acting Clerk of Council for the period of February 2 - 16, and to appoint Finance Director Marsha Grigsby as Acting Clerk of Council (for purposes of legal service) for the period of April 12-14. Ms. Salay seconded the motion. Vote on the motion: Ms. Salay, yes; Mrs. Boring, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Mr. Lecklider, yes; Mr. McCash, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher, yes. COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS/COUNCIL ROUNDTABLE Mr. McCash stated that he would be out of town and not able to attend the February 7 Council meeting. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher inquired if Mr. McCash, Administrative Chair, desires to schedule a date for the board and commission interviews, as the available dates are limited. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting DAYTON LEGAL BLANK, INC.. FORM NO 10148 January 31, LUU::> page 11 Held 20 Council consensus was to schedule board and commission candidate interviews on Monday, February 28 at 6:00 p.m. Mrs. Borinq asked about Mr. Hammersmith's memo regarding the Indian Run water main, in which he refers to the need to obtain right-of-way from homeowners of three parcels with Dublin Road addresses. Her understanding from earlier discussion about this project was that the success of the project depended upon the donation of those right-of-ways to the City. Mr. Hammersmith responded that this memo refers to easements that are necessary to serve the three lots at the end of the street. Their driveways actually run from Dublin Road. The City is requesting the owners of the three adjoining properties to dedicate the easements for the benefit of their neighbors. Mrs. Boring inquired if it would fall under the City's purview to take the easements. Mr. Hammersmith stated that his understanding is that if the resident would benefit from the project, the City would not expect to pay for the land. Mrs. Boring stated that those neighbors are benefiting from the project. She is concerned that the policy remain in place and that costs not be added to the project. Mr. Keenan stated that the Finance Committee should schedule meetings to review the Community Recreation Center fees and the Dublin Convention and Visitors Bureau's (DCVB) funding request. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher stated that the DCVB has met with Ms. Grigsby and provided her with information regarding their budget development. A recommendation would come from Ms. Grigsby to Council. The Finance Committee would want to schedule that meeting at a time when Ms. Grigsby is available. Ms. Brautigam noted that Ms. Grigsby had indicated her preference to schedule this meeting later in the Spring, but the Bureau is anxious to have their funding request addressed soon to resolve their budget situation. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher noted that the DCVB also has a leasing issue. They do not want to renew their lease for an extended period until their budget issues are resolved. If Ms. Grigsby has the analysis completed to the extent that guidance can be given to Council, the meeting could be scheduled sooner. Mr. Keenan stated that he would contact Ms. Grigsby and attempt to schedule a March or mid-April Finance Committee meeting to discuss DCVB's request. Mavor Chinnici-Zuercher: 1. Stated that a memo from Senator Stivers was provided to Council members tonight. Senator Stivers is currently in Iraq, but communicates that he continues to work on behalf of his constituents. He reports that he has been successful in securing $500,000 in the state's capital budget for Dublin's proposed technology corridor. Dublin is the only Ohio suburb with funding in the state capital budget. She will communicate Council's appreciation to him. <Ie 2. Referred to a letter from the Director of Dublin Community Preschool expressing the school's concern that an armed robbery occurred at Kroger, which is in the immediate vicinity of the school. The gunmen were at large, yet the police did not contact the school to enable them to enact any security precautions. Chief Epperson responded that he had also received the letter. A response system will soon be in place for such emergency situations. When the Police are responding to an emergency security situation, it is extremely difficult to dedicate critical resources to notification of surrounding businesses. However, the City has now contracted with Dial-a-Logic for an emergency phone notification service. This is a web-based service that will enable their department to electronically select a RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting DAYTON LEGAL BLANK. INC.. FORM NO 10148 January 31, 2UU5 l-'age 1 L Held 20 geographic area from a map and send either a voice mail or email alert to those phones. This will require a Police communications person or dispatcher to perform the task, so it will be dependent upon their having the time to do so. The service can be used for crime, emergency and disaster alerts. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher noted that it would be necessary for the Police Department to establish protocol as to which events would require this type of notification. Chief Epperson responded that templates will be set up for use in different types of emergency notifications, but there will also be the ability to manually create one. Ms. Salay noted that some notifications evidently occurred. She visited the elementary school her son attends that morning and found the door locked. Someone permitted her to enter and informed her that the school had enacted security measures due to an armed robbery in the area. The existence of the preschool in that area may not have been known. Chief Epperson responded that the Police have a school resource officer at the middle school, and that officer immediately notified the school to lock down. Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher inquired if the Dublin Community Preschool Director has been notified of the new system. Chief Epperson responded that he will notify the director as soon as the notification system is in place and operational. 3. Noted that Council has receive two letters of concern from Dunkerrin Court residents. Ms. Amphar has provided information regarding the conditions of the roads and gutters in that area, and another gentleman has complained about the damage caused by City plows. Staff has informed her that this area has previously been scheduled for major repair and upgrading, which was postponed. The area is continuing to deteriorate. What is the current plan? Mr. Hammersmith responded that Mr. Tennyson, the City's pavement engineer, has discussed the situation with the residents. The project is tentatively scheduled in the 2005 street maintenance program. However, the condition on Dunkerrin Court is replicated across the community as a result of the spring thaw. Engineering staff are meeting with the Streets and Utilities Division to evaluate this year's projects. 4. Stated that she had received via fax a lengthy letter of complaint from a Rec Center member regarding the conditions of the Rec Center showers. Ms. Brautigam responded that Ms. Heal will be responding to that letter, and a copy of her response will be forwarded to Council. 5. Inquired about the status of the fire damaged Crescendo's restaurant building. She understands that the case is under Police and insurance investigation. Fire Chief Woo stated that the Crescendo case is still under investigation. The insurance company investigators have taken samples, but the results are pending. Although the unsafe areas have been removed to prevent collapse, the remainder ....,~ of the structure has been left intact until the investigations are completed. The metallurgical testing results should be available in two weeks. When the investigators are assured that they have determined the cause, the structure can removed. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher moved to adjourn to executive session for discussion of personnel matters. Mr. Reiner seconded the motion. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting DAYTON LEGAL BLANK, INC., FORM NO. 10148 January 31, 2005 Page 13 Held 20 Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher announced that the meeting would be reconvened only to formally adjourn. No further action will be taken. Vote on the motion: Mr. Reiner, yes; Ms. Salay, yes; Mr. Lecklider, yes; Mr. McCash, yes; Mayor Chinnici-Zuercher, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Mrs. Boring, yes. The meeting was adjourned to executive session at 8:40 p.m. The meeting was reconvened and formally adjourned at 8:40 p.m. ~ a~ Clerk of Council