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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Minutes 03-22-2010RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of _Dublin City Council Meeting March 22, 2010 Mayor Lecklider called the Monday, March 22, 2010 Regular Meeting of Dublin City Council to order at 6:05 p.m. at the Dublin Municipal Building. Present were Mayor Lecklider, Vice Mayor Salay, Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, Mr. Gerber, Mr. Keenan, and Mr. Reiner. Mrs. Boring arrived a few minutes later. Staff members present were Mr. Foegler, Ms. Grigsby, Mr. McDaniel, Mr. Smith, Mr. Hahn, Mr. Langworthy, Ms. Ott, and Ms. Kennedy. ADJOURNMENT TO EXECUTIVE SESSION Mayor Lecklider moved to adjourn to executive session for discussion of land acquisition and legal matters. Mr. Gerber seconded the motion. Vote on the motion: Mayor Lecklider, yes; Vice Mayor Salay, yes; Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, yes; Mr. Gerber, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes. The meeting was reconvened at 7 p.m. ROLL CALL Present were Mayor Lecklider, Vice Mayor Salay, Mrs. Boring, Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, Mr. Gerber, Mr. Keenan, and Mr. Reiner. Staff members present were Mr. Foegler, Ms. Grigsby, Mr. Smith, Mr. McDaniel, Mr. Langworthy, Mr. Hahn, Mr. Harding, Mr. Hammersmith, Ms. Crandall, Ms. Ott, Mr. Thurman, Ms. Leroy, Lt. VonEckartsberg, Ms. Willis, Ms. Colley, Ms. Kennedy and Mr. Ball. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Mrs. Boring led the Pledge of Allegiance. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Regular Meeting of February 22, 2010 Mr. Gerber moved to approve the minutes of the February 22 Council meeting. Mr. Keenan seconded the motion. Vice Mayor Salay requested a correction in paragraph one of page 14, revising "eject" to "inject" and in paragraph two of page 16, revising "primate" to "primary." Mrs. Boring requested that her comments on page eight be revised from "The color is not inconsistent with Dublin's green" to "various shades of green were offered, and there was a darker one that is consistent with Dublin's green." Vote on the minutes as corrected Mr. Keenan, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Ms. Chinnici- Zuercher, yes; Mr. Gerber, yes; Vice Mayor Salay, yes; Mayor Lecklider, yes; Mrs. Boring, yes. Regular Meeting of March 8, 2010 Mr. Gerber moved to approve the minutes of the March 8 Council meeting. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher seconded the motion. Vote on the motion: Mr. Reiner, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Mrs. Boring, yes; Mayor Lecklider, yes; Mr. Gerber, yes; Vice Mayor Salay, abstain; Ms. Chinnici- Zuercher, yes. SPECIAL PRESENTATION /PROCLAMATIONS Recognition of PROUD Writing Contest Winners for Dublin Bicentennial Liz Soppe, president of PROUD (Parents Resource for Outstanding Dublin Students) stated that approximately 50 students participated in the Bicentennial category of this writing contest. Professional writers and Jim Richards, Dublin Historical Society, evaluated the entries and narrowed the selections to 25. From that number, one participant from each grade was chosen. The winners from grades four through eight were: Ansley Deaton (4' grade); Christie Grooms (5 grade); Sanjana Chidambaram (6' grade); Riley Steiner (7` grade); Grant Niedzweidski (8"' grade). She invited Grant Niedzweidski forward to read his poem aloud at the podium. Ms. Soppe thanked the City for the savings bond each winner received, which was funded through a hotel -motel tax grant from the City. Vice Mayor Salay stated that she attended the PROUD Awards ceremony on March 2 n at Dublin Jerome High School. She enjoyed the samples of quality writing on display and the RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting March 22, 2010 Page 2 recognition of the academic talent of the students in the community. She thanked the students for participating in the Bicentennial contest and encouraged them to continue writing. On behalf of City Council, she presented each winner with a copy of the City's history book, "Dublin's Journey." • Update re. Can Am Police and Fire Olympic Games —Josh Bricker and Joel Campbell, Special Event Council Joel Campbell, President, Dublin Special Events Council provided background on the event. The 2010 Canadian - American Police and Fire Olympic Games, a three -year effort to date, is anticipated to have 1,500 participants. The Dublin Special Events Council was formed as the local organizing committee. The Dublin Convention and Visitors Bureau collaborated with a number of other organizations to provide the Board of Trustees for the Council. Serving on the Board are Police Chief Epperson and Washington Township Fire Chief Woo, along with several other community members. They have invested many hours in organizing the 50 -plus game component of this event. The event will occur in mid - August. Extensive marketing for the event is underway. Shortly before the event, they will present an update on the final details. He thanked Council for their support in bringing this event to Dublin. Josh Bricker, Dublin Special Events Council stated that Can Am Games will take place from August 15 through 22. They have secured several sponsorships and continue to work to identify additional sponsors. Plans for the games are progressing, and they are planning an exciting opening ceremony. The opening ceremonies are open to the public, and all 58 games are free to the public to watch. Marketing efforts are underway. With Dublin's location, they believe the 2010 Can Am Games could be the biggest Can Am Games in the history of the event, which began in 1976. A mailing was recently sent to every Chief of Police in the state of Ohio, and next month they will attend the Firefighters Conference in Indianapolis to encourage participation. Currently, they have received registrations from 33 states and provinces. In addition to U.S. and Canadian participants, they have received registrations from Brazil, Bulgaria, The Netherlands, New Zealand and Spain. He extended a special thanks to the Dublin Police Department and Washington Township Fire Department for their tremendous support and partnership in planning this event. Mr. Reiner asked about the nature of the sporting events. Mr. Bricker stated that although the SWAT event will be closed to the public due to the use of dangerous weaponry, other events will be open to the public, including the canine competition, held at the Coffman Stadium; the "toughest firefighter alive competition," held at the Washington Township administration building; the police motorcycle skills competition, held at the Service Complex; and traditional sports, such as softball and track and field. A list of all the games and their venues is listed at their website. Mr. Reiner asked if the newspapers will donate coverage. Mr. Bricker stated that they have not reached that point yet. As the date draws nearer, they will work with all Dublin and central Ohio news outlets in an intensive media blitz. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher asked if their website lists volunteer opportunities. Mr. Bricker responded that the City's Volunteer Administrator is handling the volunteer efforts, which are just now beginning to pick up. They estimate 400 -500 volunteers will be needed, noting that Dublin has a strong volunteer base. Mr. Keenan asked if hockey will be included in the games, in view of the recent Canadian American competition in the Winter Olympics. Mr. Bricker responded that this event is scheduled at The Chiller. • Update from Dublin Counseling Center— Julie Rinaldi, Executive Director and Bob Adamek, Board Chair Bob Adamek. 4897 Lvtfield Drive, Dublin Counseling Center Board Chair thanked Council for their support. The entire medical industry is experiencing challenging financial times due to some budget cuts at the state level. Those cuts have impacted Franklin County significantly this past year. There has been a $14.5 million dollar funding reduction to the mental health community, impacting the individual budgets of 42 agencies. Dublin RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting March 22, 2010 Page 3 Counseling Center was fortunate, receiving only a $250,000 funding reduction. They received a minimal reduction due to the fine work performed at the Counseling Center. The ADAMH Board provides diligent oversight to their program and patient care. Executive Director Julie Rinaldi provides strong leadership and they have a strong board of directors. They have recently invited Mr. McDaniel to join the Board, as a liaison for the City. The Center recently celebrated its 30'" anniversary. The staff and the facility are significantly larger now due to the increasing needs of the community. Many Franklin County mental health facilities have closed due to lack of funding. The Counseling Center is anticipating some budget cuts due to the reduction in State funds. However, the Center is able to continue operations due to the additional support provided by the City and Washington Township. A recent project implemented by the Dublin Counseling Center was the Red Flag suicide prevention program, a partnership effort with the school district. The services the Center provides are excellent, and the Center receives top scores from the ADAMH Board. Julie Rinaldi, Dublin Counseling Center Executive Director thanked Council for its continuing support. Mayor Lecklider stated that Council considers the Dublin Counseling Center a real asset to the community. Their efforts in difficult financial times are very much appreciated. Although much of what the Center does is not public, due to the nature of its work, Council is pleased to have this partnership with the Center and will continue to support its work. Recognition of Randy Languis, Division 1, State Wrestling Champion Mayor Lecklider presented a proclamation to Randy Languis for his win of the Division I, 140 -pound State Wrestling Championship on March 6, 2010. Randy, a senior at Dublin Scioto High School and captain of the wrestling team, is Dublin's only three -time State Placer in wrestling, completing his senior year with a record of 50 -4. On behalf of Council, Mayor Lecklider proclaimed Friday, March 26, 2010 as "Randy Languis Day' in the City of Dublin. CORRESPONDENCE There was no correspondence requiring Council action. CITIZEN COMMENTS Wallace Maurer, 7451 Dublin Road noted that at home he has a decades -old cactus, potted many years ago by his mother. The earth has never been changed, and the cactus flowers like clockwork in January, February and March. This year, it flowered more than ever before and the individual flowers are breathtaking. It could be a metaphor for the explosive growth of the City. Changing metaphors, if the seven Council members, City Manager, Fiscal Officer and Law Director of Dublin were combined into one "wise emperor," and he was that emperor with the responsibility of final approval of rezoning applications, he would have disapproved an application reviewed by Council 2 -3 meetings ago. He will discuss his reasons for this at the next Council meeting. LEGISLATION POSTPONED LEGISLATION Ordinance 08 -10 Rezoning Approximately 0.67 Acres Located on the Northeast Corner of the Intersection of North High Street and North Street within Historic Dublin from CB, Central Business District to HB, Historic Business District. (Oscar's — Case 09- 109Z) Mr. Langworthy stated that this legislation relates to properties at 72 and 84 N. High Street and 20 North Street located at or near the intersection of those two streets. The application proposes various architectural and site modifications that would remove part of the patio area and enclose it with building space. This application has been reviewed by the ARB for the architectural site modifications; by the BZA for variances for the setback, parking, landscaping and lot coverage requirements; and by P &Z for the rezoning. The P &Z recommends approval. The reason this application was postponed at the February 22 Council meeting was because some Council members requested the applicant provide valet parking to address concerns raised regarding the availability and proximity of parking within the Historic District. Mr. Smith will discuss how that will be achieved. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Dublin City Co uncil Meeting March 22, 2010 Page 4 Mr. Smith stated that Council requested that staff identify a means by which to implement valet parking to serve this restaurant. This is a straight zone and therefore conditions cannot be appended. To meet that need, a restrictive covenant has been built into the title that runs with the land. This restriction ensures that if the requirement to provide valet services in front of Oscar's building is violated, the City would have the ability to obtain an injunction. In addition, Oscar's has also agreed that in the event legal action is necessary, and the City prevails, Oscar's would pay all of the associated legal fees incurred by the City. Oscar's also has an agreement in place with River's Edge, where the valet - parked cars will be taken. Mr. Langworthy stated that Planning, Engineering and the Law Director's office have worked with the applicant to provide an appropriately located valet station along North High Street. The proposed valet service would be located immediately in front of Oscar's restaurant, in the first two on- street parking spaces on the east side of North High Street, north of the intersection with North Street. Mr. Smith noted that the restrictive covenant also provides that if there is ever a future need for the City to place additional restrictions on that space, the applicant must abide by those regulations. Mr. Gerber stated that it was his understanding that: (1) there has been a parking agreement between this applicant and 94 N. High for a number of years, which, although it has recently expired, would remain in place; and (2) the additional valet parking would occur behind the 94 N. High building, where an additional 100 parking spaces would be added. The terms of this agreement as proposed tonight appear to be that the applicant will continue to do what he has done in the past and nothing new. Therefore, how would this arrangement provide additional parking? Mrs. Boring noted that the location identified on the Rivers Edge property on the valet parking map is where the overflow public parking currently exists. Mayor Chinnici - Zuercher agreed. It would now be necessary for patrons in need of overflow parking to park at the base of the steep hill behind the 94 N. High building, and there are no steps in place on that hill. That is the reason a recommendation was made at the previous meeting that this lower lot area would be the location in which the valets would park the cars, leaving the upper parking lot area available for self parking. Mr. Langworthy requested that Carolyn Temple from Mr. Eggspuehler's office respond to the question. Mr. Gerber stated that he does not know when that parking agreement was put in place, but it provided additional parking at 94 N. High Street. The applicant indicated at the previous discussion that the existing parking agreement would remain in place, and that the valet parking would bring an additional 100 spaces behind that building. Carolyn Temple, 20 North Street stated that she believes that the lease of the 94 N. High Street parking spaces has not expired. Mr. Tibbets can confirm that. Mr. Gerber responded that he received a phone call today from Tom Carpenter — one of the owners of 94 N. High Street -- indicating that the parking agreement had expired. Ms. Temple responded that she would check on it tomorrow. Mr. Langworthy stated that the details of the location and arrangements are being worked out separately; they are not part of the deed restriction. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher responded that she recognizes that. However, the goal remains the same — to gain parking spaces, and not to use existing parking spaces for the valet parking. There was a significant waiver of the parking requirement previously approved, and this is the area with the most critical parking needs in the District. For this reason, valet parking was identified as an alternative to address the need. If the business prefers not to use the additional area behind the 94 N. High building, they could choose to use the area behind the school for the valet parking. There were other options available, but the RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting March 22, 2010 Page 5 applicant discussed only the parking area behind 94 N. High. Again, the objective is not to use existing spaces. Mr. Keenan stated that when the valet parking details are finalized, it will be necessary to make certain that Oscar's will not at some point relocate the valet parking area to the west, which is already heavily utilized. The restrictive covenant provides only that they "shall abide by any and all rules pertaining to valet parking that are established by the City from time to time." It only indicates that , "The grantee will provide the valet parking in a manner, at the times and at the locations approved by the City." He wants to make certain that it is clear that this does not contemplate using public parking areas to the west. Mr. Smith stated that at the previous meeting, the applicant indicated a renewed parking agreement was in place. It is important to verify that. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher stated that using the space in front of the 94 N. High building is not an acceptable alternative for the valet parking. Mr. Gerber stated that he cannot vote for this application until he has the answers to these questions. Vice Mayor Salay stated that it appears necessary to postpone this again. Mayor Lecklider agreed. At the previous discussion, he was under the assumption that the space for the valet parking was the lot at the base of the hill. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher added that it was not merely an assumption; there was substantial discussion to that effect. Mayor Lecklider emphasized that the assumption is that not only will Mr. Eggspuehler renew the parking agreement for 94 S. High, but that he would also secure an agreement for the parking area at the base of the hill. How can such a condition be imposed upon the applicant? Mr. Smith responded that it is very problematic if the agreement is not already in place. The agreement was the basis upon which the City would be able to designate the valet parking location, times, etc. He recommends that the legislation be postponed in order that a discussion with Mr. Eggspuehler can take place. Based on the previous discussion, it was his impression that Mr. Eggspuehler had a lease in place for the parking lot behind 94 N. High, at the base of the hill. Mr. Gerber stated that unless both parking areas -- the existing area at 94 N. High and the 100 additional spaces behind 94 N. High -- are part of this application, he will not be able to support the rezoning. Mr. Keenan stated that the issue is whether that condition can be imposed upon the applicant, and what would be the duration of that agreement. If the agreement is only for three or four years, the issue is not adequately resolved. Mr. Smith stated that the deed restriction ensures that. Mr. Eggspuehler has agreed to abide by the locations and times that the City designates. But that was based upon the understanding that Mr. Eggspuehler had secured those parking areas. Absent that, the situation is entirely different. The covenant restrictions were not yet recorded, pending the outcome of this legislation. The restrictions will require the owner to provide valet parking in order to operate the restaurant. Mr. Keenan responded that it would be ill- advised for the owner to enter into the agreement without the option to renew it over a long period of time. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher stated that Council made it clear that they are interested in the restaurant continuing to exist in this location and being expanded, but that Council could no longer support any new or expanded restaurant without a provision for the additional parking. The City certainly will not waive the parking requirement in this case. Mrs. Boring stated that message needs to be shared by the Planning staff RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council Meetin£ March 22, 2010 Page 6 Mayor Lecklider clarified that in addition to the lower parking lot, it would be essential to renew the current lease at 94 N. High to ensure that parking would not be shifted to the west, where the parking is already congested. Mr. Gerber stated that it makes no difference to him where the owner finds the valet parking spaces. But the applicant has represented that there are 25 -30 spaces at 94 N. High and another 100 additional spaces at the base of the hill. If the applicant secures a total of 130 spaces, he is satisfied. Vice Mayor Salay stated that is only under the assumption that none of those spaces the applicant identifies are in the City's public parking lot across the street. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher agreed. That was also part of the previous discussion — that other valet services are parking cars in the public parking lots. Mayor Lecklider asked Ms. Temple if she would agree to Council postponing the legislation. Ms. Temple agreed. Mrs. Boring moved to postpone Ordinance 08 -10 to the April 12 Council meeting. Mr. Gerber seconded the motion. Vote on the motion Vice Mayor Salay, yes; Mayor Lecklider, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, yes; Mr. Gerber, yes; Mrs. Boring, yes. INTRODUCTION /FIRST READING — ORDINANCES Ordinance 14 -10 Authorizing the Execution of a Calculation Agency Agreement, and Declaring an Emergency. (2009 Bond Issue - Build America Bonds) Vice Mayor Salay introduced the ordinance. Ms. Grigsby stated that this legislation allows the City Manager to execute the calculation agreement with the Bank of New York, which is the City's bond registrar for the debt that was issued last fall. It provides authorization to prepare and submit the forms to the IRS each July and December over the 20 -year term of the bonds. When the City last issued debt, it took advantage of the Build America Bonds as an option. As a result, the City pays a higher interest rate to the bond holders, and the federal government will reimburse the City 35% of that interest cost. This agreement allows the Bank of New York to prepare the necessary forms to obtain that 35% subsidy. Mr. Keenan stated that he understood there were two different vehicles that could be used for this — traditional, municipal bonds and the Build America Bonds. Ms. Grigsby confirmed that is correct. Mr. Keenan stated that he recalls that previous discussion indicated the City was leaning toward using the traditional bonds. Ms. Grigsby stated that when the earlier legislation was introduced to Council, the information from the underwriters regarding the market at that time was that the Build America Bonds would save the City some interest costs, but not enough to warrant using them. However, by the time they reached the market, the Build America Bonds and the interest rate at that time would save the City significantly more dollars than the traditional tax exempt debt. In fact, the City saved approximately $560,000 over the life of the 20 -year bond. The City did issue tax exempt debt for the first three years; years 4 through 20 are Build America Bonds. Mr. Keenan stated that as he indicated previously, he has some philosophical issues with the bonds, which could be sold to any investors. Ms. Grigsby responded that the tax exempt debt can be sold to any investors as well. Build America Bonds open up a new market for investors because of the higher interest rate that can be obtained. The tax exempt debt has a lower interest rate because it is exempt from federal and state taxes. Some agencies that are tax exempt, such as retirement funds, do not benefit from tax exempt bonds. However, the Build America Bonds are beneficial to them because of their higher interest rate. Mr. Keenan stated that he recalls that foreign governments could potentially be involved, and the 35% reimbursement would ultimately subsidize them using federal funds. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City. Council Meeting March 22, 2010 Page 7 Ms. Grigsby responded that the foreign market participation is a potential. The information on the purchasers, however, and foreign governments were not the purchasers of the debt. Previously, when the City considered issuing bonds, there was concern that for the next 20 years, it would be necessary to process and receive the 35% subsidy. So part of the evaluation when that debt was issued was whether the $560,000 savings warranted the ongoing administrative process for the life of the debt. At that time, it was determined that it made sense to issue Build America Bonds for years 4 through 20. Last fall, the City of Columbus issued their debt two weeks after Dublin, and they did the same. Mayor Lecklider inquired if the fee is in fact $1,500 for the 20 -year period. Ms. Grigsby confirmed that is correct. The fees are low because they will be processing forms for many other issuers at the same time. Mr. Keenan requested that the information originally provided to Council in the fall of 2009 related to Build America Bonds be provided again for the second reading. Ms. Grigsby agreed to do so. There will be a second reading /public hearing at the April 12 Council meeting. Ordinance 15 -10 Authorizing the Provision of Certain Incentives to Medco Health Solutions of Columbus North, Ltd. to Induce it to Extend the Lease Term on its Facility within the City and Continue its Operations and Retain its Workforce within the City, and Authorizing the Execution of an Economic Development Agreement). Vice Mayor Salay introduced the ordinance. Mr. McDaniel stated that staff has been in discussions with Medco regarding the possible retention of their workforce and call center pharmacy at 5151 Blazer Parkway. The call center employs over 870 over three shifts. Medco is currently reviewing their options for this operation, both at the Dublin location and other Central Ohio sites and they intend to execute a ten -year lease in some location. Staff is presenting this economic development agreement in an effort to retain the company in Dublin. It proposes a five -year, 15 percent performance incentive on withholdings collected, and is capped at $600,000 over the five -year period. It is a fairly standard performance -based incentive offered by Dublin. Staff is also proposing a sixth or bonus year. Should the company meet their targets in the previous five years and attain their target in the sixth year, there would be a sixth year payout from the City. Overall, the cap over the six years is $720,000. Over the complete ten -year lease term, the City would expect to net $8,256,000 in withholdings. Staff recommends passage at the April 12 Council meeting. Representatives from Medco will be in attendance on April 12. Mayor Lecklider noted that the memo indicates, "Should Medco grow according to expectations ..." Typically, what the memo includes is projected growth in numbers of employees or other item. He asked for clarification. Mr. McDaniel responded that the City is projecting payroll growth for the company. The targets the company must meet increase each year of the agreement. It may relate to overall salary increases and bonuses paid out. There may not necessarily be growth in the numbers of employees. Mayor Lecklider noted that the assumption over time would then be that the company's payroll would increase, whether through inflation or other factor. Ms. Chinn ici-Zuercher thanked Mr. McDaniel, Ms. Gilger and Mr. Foegler for continuing to employ strategies for retention and expansion. The call center industry is one of the few industries that are growing. To the extent the City is able to retain existing corporate citizens, it is a wonderful opportunity. There will be a second reading /public hearing at the April 12 Council meeting. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin _City Council Meeting March 22, 2010 Page 8 INTRODUCTION /PUBLIC HEARING - RESOLUTIONS Resolution 22 -10 Appointing Members to the Various Boards and Commissions of the City of Dublin. Vice Mayor Salay, Administrative Committee Chair introduced the resolution. She noted that Council is very pleased that the board and commission members appointed in this resolution are willing to continue to serve. All of these are reappointments, with the exception of Derek Graham, who has accepted the appointment to the Community Services Advisory Commission. Vote on the Resolution: Mr. Gerber, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Vice Mayor Salay, yes; Mrs. Boring, yes; Mayor Lecklider, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, yes. Resolution 23 -10 Accepting the Lowest/Best Bid for the Belvedere Park Development Project. Vice Mayor Salay introduced the resolution. Mr. Hahn stated that this contract provides for the completion of a neighborhood park. Phase One of the park was completed by the developer of the subdivision a number of years ago. Staff is recommending the lowest and best bid from Builderscape, a company which has done satisfactory work for the City on previous projects. Wallace Maurer, 7451 Dublin Road noted that the memo indicates that the City provided the shade structure and playground equipment at a cost of $43,142, and that this amount is in addition to the bid portion of the project. He asked for clarification. Mr. Hahn stated that the City as the owner provided these materials for the project, and so the contract provides for construction and installation of owner - provided materials. Mr. Maurer noted that there is a reference to a $20,000 overage. Mr. Hahn responded that this relates to the $126,000 base bid, plus the $43,142 of owner - provided materials and the fact that the City had budgeted $150,000 for the project. Vote on the Resolution: Ms. Chinnici- Zuercher, yes; Mrs. Boring, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Mayor Lecklider, yes; Mr. Gerber, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Vice Mayor Salay, yes. Resolution 24 -10 Waiving Competitive Bidding Requirements, Pursuant to Section 8.04 ( "Contracting Procedures "), Paragraph (C) ( "Waiver of Competitive Bidding ") for Alcoholic Beverages for the Dublin Irish Festival. Vice Mayor Salay introduced the resolution. Ms. Leroy stated that this waiver is requested each year for beer purchased from Superior Beverage for the Dublin Irish Festival. The purchase amount is estimated at $130,000, and was included in the 2010 operating budget. Wallace Maurer, 7451 Dublin Road asked why the waiver of the competitive bidding requirement is considered to be in the best interests of the City. Mr. Smith responded that the City has negotiated a sponsorship with Superior Beverage and they have agreed to a substantial cash sponsorship in exchange for being the beverage provider. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of blin- City� Meeting March 22, 2010 Page 9 He Vote on the Resolution: Mr. Keenan, yes; Mayor Lecklider, yes; Mr. Gerber, yes; Vice Mayor Salay, yes; Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, yes; Mrs. Boring, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes. OTHER Hearing no objection from Council, Mayor Lecklider noted that the waiver for alcohol in Coffman Park would be heard at this time. • Request for Waiver to Serve Alcohol in Coffman Park for Dublin Irish Festival - August 6, 7 and 8, 2010 Ms. Leroy stated that staff is requesting permission from Council to serve alcohol in Coffman Park for the Dublin Irish Festival. The park will be fenced and the Dublin Police will provide services necessary to ensure appropriate oversight. Mr. Reiner moved to approve the waiver. Vice Mayor Salay seconded the motion. Vote on the motion: Vice Mayor Salay, yes; Mrs. Boring, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Mr. Gerber, yes; Mayor Lecklider, yes. • Update re. Avery-M u i rf ield/Pe ri meter Drive and Avery- Muirfield /Hospital Drive Roundabout Ms. Willis noted that this presentation will provide an update on the conceptual engineering design work that has been done since the last presentation on the Avery- Muirfield north corridor in January of 2006. The work has been done in preparation for the Capital Improvements budget to ensure the construction cost estimates are accurate, and to begin to estimate the right -of -way impact and costs. Design is scheduled in 2011, and construction is scheduled in 2013. She reporting the following: • The area includes Avery- Muirfield Drive, from US 33 north to Post Road. A two -lane roundabout has already been installed at Avery- Muirfield /Post Road. The remaining two intersections of focus tonight are at Hospital Drive /Perimeter Loop Road and Perimeter Drive. • There are several pending zoning cases in this area, and therefore the information includes the access changes likely to occur with the implementation of the roundabouts. • These two signalized intersections are currently very congested. There is a desire to facilitate the traffic flow and improve the capacity at the intersections. • Currently, there are signalized intersections at Hospital Drive /Perimeter Loop Road and at Perimeter Drive. There are six lanes on both the north and south side of Perimeter Loop /Hospital Drive on Avery- Muirfield. There are five lanes on the west and four lanes on the east side. At Avery- M u i rfield/Peri meter, there are six lanes approaching the intersection from the south, five lanes in total on the north side of the intersection, five lanes total on the west side and five lanes on the east side. It is a full, eight - phase signal operation and the efficiency of the intersection has been maximized as much as possible. • These two roundabouts were included in the 2007 Community Plan and are based upon discussions held with Council in early 2006 regarding two -lane roundabouts within a two -lane footprint for the three total intersections in this stretch. • The main factors considered in the roundabout decision were the increased safety provided, the increased capacity versus traffic signals, and the reduced intersection footprint and reduced amount of asphalt needed on the roadway itself between the intersections. • Staff did not advance the conceptualized engineering of the two intersections in order to ensure the budget estimates numbers are accurate for the CIP in terms of right -of -way impacts and costs. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting March 22, 2010 Page 10 • She shared the conceptual footprints of the two -lane roundabouts within the two -lane footprints at the Hospital Drive /Perimeter Loop Road and at the Perimeter Drive intersections with Avery- Muirfield. They depict the existing roadway and the new asphalt. The goal is to minimize impact to the surrounding area, utilizing the existing asphalt edge to the extent possible. • Although the amount of asphalt is reduced between the intersections, there are some right -of -way impacts at the intersections. • She highlighted the length of the splitter islands on the west and east sides of the intersections. These extensions are designed to increase the efficiencies of the intersections and to minimize the number of conflicts that exist. • At the roundabout at Perimeter Drive /Avery- Muirfield, the extension of the splitter island on the west side of the intersection will cause the service driveway to Burger King and Blockbuster to convert to a right in, right out access. That is part of their platted property, and the volume -based restriction could have been placed previously. Without a physical barrier, however, it was difficult to enforce. With the splitter island, this restriction will now be implemented. • She highlighted that on the east side of the Perimeter Drive /Avery- Muirfield roundabout, the splitter island stops just short of the service road for McDonald's, Chase Bank, etc. Therefore, at the north end of this service road, full access is maintained for these businesses. • Because the two -lane roundabout within the two -lane footprint was selected, the impacts on the right -of -way are minimized immediately adjacent to the intersection four corners, but there are still some impacts. Currently, staff is working with an appraiser to determine the average cost for property in this area in order to have a good estimate for the CIP. She offered to respond to questions. Mr. Reiner asked if there are any existing examples where two roundabouts have been constructed in such close proximity. He is somewhat concerned in view of the amount of traffic and the reduction to two lanes. Ms. Willis responded there are some existing examples. Typically, because in this case the right -of -way is not assigned, but instead the gaps are filled more evenly, the efficiency and capacity are increased and there is not a stacking problem in the roundabouts. Mr. Reiner asked for the estimated timeframe that these roundabouts will accommodate future traffic needs. Ms. Willis responded that, currently, staff believes these roundabouts are the best solution for this corridor and that they will suffice for a good period of time. Mr. Reiner asked who produced the engineering designs. Ms. Willis responded that Burgess & Niple produced the designs. Vice Mayor Salay asked if staff has a more specific estimate of timeframe the roundabouts will handle the traffic volume. Ms. Willis responded that the current analysis available was done with a regional travel demand model that over projected traffic in this particular area. This model did not project that the two -lane roundabout in a two -lane footprint would be adequate beyond five years. However, those projected traffic volumes are not occurring. Staff has good reason to believe the timeframe will be much more than five years. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher stated that she would like to visit an area that has roundabouts in such close proximity. She recalls that the three roundabouts planned in close proximity was a large part of the previous Council discussion, as well as the complexity for a driver to maneuver them. It would be very helpful for Council to view a location where these have been installed. Secondly, she is RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin-City Council Meeting March 22, 2010 Page 11 concerned with the splitter island extensions and the change in existing traffic patterns that will result. Ms. Willis stated that staff is working with the applicant for the Kroger rezoning to relocate the entry driveway to the west in order to maintain full access. The queuing and stacking created by the Wendy's/Tim Hortons will be stacked onsite versus on the public street. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher noted that is a positive aspect, but from Walgreen's, it would not be possible to cross to the Kroger Center as one does today. Vice Mayor Salay stated that one would have to exit the other driveway from Walgreen's to access Hospital Drive. Mr. Keenan stated this is a safer egress in any case. Vice Mayor Salay stated that when the three roundabouts were discussed, she recalls that maintaining an existing traffic signal at one while installing a roundabout at another would result in problems with stacking. Ms. Willis confirmed that is correct. With the roundabout, the traffic will move through evenly and use available gaps in traffic. Vice Mayor Salay stated that, ultimately, this will provide much better traffic flow and will be more user - friendly. Mr. Reiner asked if the traffic signals being removed will be recycled, sold or stored. Ms. Willis responded there are several options available. At times, they are saved in case they can be reused. For these two, the mast arms could be stored and the signal heads of aluminum could be sold, but the LED lenses will be retained. Mr. Hammersmith added that several years ago, the City donated some of its old signal equipment to another municipality and this is another option. He noted that in terms of congestion, comparable levels of service could not be achieved with the traffic signals. This was indicated in the presentation in January of 2006. Staff's intent is to work throughout this project with Casto and the other property owners in the area on the modifications to ingress, egress and their access points. The preliminary engineering work will provide better information on right -of -way impacts and modifications to traffic patterns. Mr. Reiner stated he is pleased that staff is working with the applicant to relocate the driveway near Wendy's/Tim Hortons. Currently, that area is very congested and dangerous. He asked if there was any discussion about having three -lane roundabouts. Mr. Hammersmith responded that was discussed in January of 2006, and the decision was to pursue the two -lane roundabout within a two -lane footprint. The other concern expressed at the time was that increasing the capacity of the roundabouts could bring more traffic congestion. Mr. Reiner stated that the Post/Avery- MuirFieid roundabout is quite congested at the peak hours, and that is why he raised the issue about stacking. Mr. Hammersmith stated there will be stacking in the peak hours, but the modeling shows that it will be significantly reduced with roundabouts versus the signal alternative. Ms. Willis added that a future signal footprint would have required nine lanes on either side of Perimeter Drive and the same at Perimeter Loop /Hospital Drive, and six lanes on either side approaching the intersection from Perimeter. She shared a slide of Route 256 in Reynoldsburg, displaying the feel of such a signalized intersection. Mayor Lecklider asked if the Reynoldsburg area handles the same traffic volumes as this Dublin area. Ms. Willis responded affirmatively. To have the same volumes moved through a two -lane roundabout would require nine lanes of a signalized intersection. This is RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting March 22, 2010 Page 12 due to the queuing and stacking requirements for vehicles waiting for signals to change. Mr. Reiner added that there is an important environmental impact in keeping the traffic moving. Ms. Willis agreed, noting that roundabouts reduce the air emissions, carbon dioxide emissions, etc. There is additional green space in the middle of the roadway as well. Mr. Reiner added that the green space is a distinctive part of Dublin. Mr. Keenan asked about the McDonald's, Chase and Swan Cleaners area. How much acreage will be needed in right -of -way acquisition with this two -lane design? At Avery- Muirfield /Post, there was discussion of a three -lane roundabout at the outset, but it was later reduced to a two -lane. Ms. Willis responded that it appears that 0.055 acres of right -of -way would be needed. Mr. Keenan noted one drawing showed a left turn egress from the private access road serving McDonald's, Swan Cleaners and Chase onto Perimeter Drive west as remaining open. Currently, this is a dangerous movement due to the northbound traffic on Avery- Muirfield which has a continuous right turn lane onto Perimeter. Mr. Hammersmith responded that this was discussed. If the accident frequency increases, there is an option of extending that median, converting to a right -in, right -out only. At this time, staff believes the distance is sufficient to allow the movement. Vice Mayor Salay asked if someone driving north on Avery- Muirfield wants to access McDonald's, would it be preferable to go to Perimeter Drive and turn right? Ms. Willis confirmed that this would be the best way to access McDonald's after this future roundabout installation. Vice Mayor Salay noted that the McDonald's and nearby parking lots are landlocked from the Giant Eagle lot. Will there be some other access provided? Mr. Hammersmith responded that there will not. In the Kroger Center, there is connectivity from the shopping center to the restaurant outparcels, but it does not exist for Donato's, Chase and McDonald's. Mr. Keenan asked for an estimated timeframe for construction of the project and whether the roundabouts will be done simultaneously? Mr. Hammersmith responded that the timeframe has not yet been determined. It may be challenging to do both roundabouts simultaneously. The plan for maintaining traffic in the area is part of the detailed construction drawings and will be addressed at that time. Mr. Reiner asked if there would be an economy of scale and price in doing both at once. Mr. Hammersmith responded that this would depend upon the costs of maintenance of traffic versus the efficiency. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher asked if there has been discussion with the new owner of McDonald's regarding this major change, which could impact their business. Mr. Hammersmith responded that discussion has not yet taken place with them. Discussions with affected property owners will take place well in advance of the project. Mayor Lecklider asked about the roundabout at Perimeter Loop, noting the elongated "pork chop" bypass. Has staff seen this incorporated previously in a roundabout? Ms. Willis responded that this is a right -turn bypass lane with a roundabout. This is a very common design. Mayor Lecklider noted that he, too, would like to view an existing area where roundabouts are in such close proximity. Vice Mayor Salay asked if staff could provide hand -out versions of the presentation. It will be helpful to study the information. Mr. Keenan asked if these roundabouts will be of the same size as that at Avery- Muirfield /Post. Ms. Willis responded that they will be somewhat larger, with more separation. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting March 22, 2010 Page 13 Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher noted that with the many retail establishments in the area, there are large semi trucks that deliver supplies. She is concerned with this area and how it will accommodate such large trucks in the roundabouts. Mr. Hammersmith stated that such trucks use the brick paver truck apron, which is the intent by design. A truck turning template is used in the design to ensure sufficient room for that movement. In addition, other vehicles should allow such a semi vehicle in the roundabout full use of both lanes, as shown in the instructional video. Mr. Keenan asked if there are issues related to torquing on that surface. Mr. Hammersmith responded that underneath the pavers is a concrete base with a bituminous bed. The pavers are clay and have a 6,000 psi compressive strength. Mr. Keenan asked Chief Woo if there will be issues with ladder trucks traversing the roundabouts. Chief Woo responded that they don't anticipate any issues. STAFF COMMENTS Mr. Foegler: • Reported that a public meeting regarding the Dublin Road water tower is scheduled for tomorrow from 6:30 - 8 p.m. at Bailey Elementary School. • Noted that the civic association president spring meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, April 7 at the Dublin Community Recreation Center from 7 -9 p.m. Topics for the agenda are being finalized at this time and an agenda will be forwarded to Council in the next week. • Reported that the Grounds of Remembrance at Dublin Veterans Park received the National Honour Award from the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects. This is the highest honor given by the Canadian group. • Reported that the Transportation Review Advisory Council (TRAC) voted on March 18 to approve the draft 2010 -2014 major new construction program list. The 270/33 interchange upgrade Phase One project is included on the list with a current allocation of $2 million and preliminary engineering for state fiscal year 2011, which staff believes begins on July 1, 2010. TRAC now enters a two -month public comment period. Therefore, this funding allocation is draft and staff does not know yet if there is a local match required for the project. Staff expects the final TRAC list to be adopted in mid -May and staff is optimistic about the outcome. Ms. Willis can provide additional information if desired. Mr. Smith reported that a recent Council packet included a response the Law Department sent to a resident who proposes amendments to the vicious dog legislation. There has been no further action requested by the resident or Council regarding this matter. Mr. Harding noted that staff is requesting a meeting date of the Administrative Committee to discuss recommendations regarding City contribution levels to the Health Savings Accounts in 2011. Approximately one hour will be needed for this discussion. It was the consensus of Council to meet as an Administrative Committee of the Whole on Monday, May 10 at 6 p.m., prior to the 7 p.m. Council meeting. COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS /COUNCIL ROUNDTABLE Mrs. Boring: 1. Asked a follow -up question about valet parking attendants parking cars in public parking lots, and whether there is any action the City can take to address this. Mr. Foegler responded that this matter will be part of the staff recommendations to be presented. If there are City - controlled remote parking lots that this parking can be directed to, that would be a policy recommended as part of the demand study for the District. He estimates that within 60 days, the recommendations will be provided to Council. 2. Asked what kind of response there was to the Multi -Modal Transportation System meetings. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Cou ncil Meeting March 22, 2010 Page 14 Mr. Langworthy responded that approximately 50 people in total attended the two MMTS meetings. Those who attended spent much time and visited each of the stations and engaged in quality discussion. They brought good ideas to the table for further consideration. 3. Reported that she recently attended her first meeting as Council representative to the Board of the Dublin Arts Council. The annual Garden Party will take place on Friday, April 9. The DAC is working hard on fundraising, and she encouraged everyone to donate items for the silent auction and to attend the event. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher 1. Reported that she and Mr. Foegler attended a recent MORPC Board meeting. They will sponsor a gubernatorial forum on August 4. From September 30 through October 5, 2012, MORPC will sponsor a global event, The Eco Summit in Columbus. Dublin will be actively involved because of its eco- orientation. The packet materials are available in the Council Planning room. Mr. Reiner stated that he was remiss in his comments at the last meeting in regard to the Bicycle Advisory Task Force. He did not mention the hard work of the staff members, Ms. Crandall and Ms. Martin who have done an outstanding job. In addition, Mr. Hammersmith and Ms. Willis have been very supportive. 2. He has always been impressed with the many awards the City receives, but was surprised with the minimal coverage in the local media of the phenomenal results of Dublin's citizen survey. He is hoping there will be more future coverage in the media. Mr. Foegler responded that the Communications team is working on strategies for this and hope to secure additional and wider coverage of this good story. He added that there is an awards segment associated with this process, which will be publicly announced in September by the National Research Center. Mr. Gerber: 1. Commented that the modified lighting at the Veterans Project sign is effective and addresses the visibility issues, as discussed at a recent meeting. Thanks to Mr. Hahn and staff for their work on this. 2. Commented in follow -up to Business Appreciation Day that perhaps the Economic Development team could work with Council to devise a monthly coffee roundtable program with local businesses — reaching out to hear their suggestions and concerns. Perhaps Council Members could rotate in attending such sessions, if there is interest in pursuing the concept. Council Members indicated they would support such an outreach effort to the business community on a monthly or quarterly basis with the assistance of Mr. McDaniel and staff. Mr. Foegler responded that staff will draft a proposal for such a program for Council's review that would dovetail with existing programs, and would create a regular opportunity for that kind of interchange. Mr. Gerber added that he would envision an early morning, one hour meeting over coffee. Ms. Sala v suggested that Council schedule interviews for board and commission candidates on Tuesday, April 6 in order to accommodate the spring civic association presidents' meeting on April 7. A separate Administrative Committee meeting is needed to discuss goal setting and to review the magistrate proposals. She will contact the Committee members regarding potential meeting dates. Mrs. Boring noted that she cannot attend the interviews on April 6 due to another commitment. It was the consensus of Council to begin the interviews at 6 p.m. on April 6. Mayor Lecklider: 1. Asked Mr. Hahn if has received adequate feedback on the effectiveness of the modified lighting at the Veterans Park. He believes the modifications are acceptable. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council_ Meeting March 22, 2010 Page 15 20 Mr. Gerber moved to approve the permanent installation of the lighting modifications in place at the Veterans Project. Mr. Reiner seconded the motion. Vote on the motion: Mayor Lecklider, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Mrs. Boring, yes; Ms. Chinnici- Zuercher, yes; Vice Mayor Salay, yes; Mr. Gerber, yes. 2. Complimented staff and volunteers for the organization and implementation of the St. Patrick's Day parade. He appreciates everyone's efforts. The Grand Leprechaun luncheon was very nice, and he thanked Jason Liu for their hospitality and for their donation of the luncheon and facility for this event. 3. Reported that he had the opportunity to speak to the Russian delegation visiting the City as part of the Open World Program established by the Library of Congress. This was a pilot project developed in 1999 to give emerging Russian leaders firsthand exposure to the American system of democracy through visits to local governments and communities. Compliments to staff members Ms. Colley, Ms. Crandall for their work on this program, along with the other participating staff members. The group's home city in Russia is east of Moscow, has a population of one million plus and was founded in 1469 — in contrast with Dublin's bicentennial celebration in 2010. He very much enjoyed participating in this program. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 9:01 p.m. %x1 Mayor — Prl : f, �� O fficer / Clerk of Council