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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Minutes 01-24-2011RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dub lin Cit Council January 24, 2011 Mayor Lecklider called the Monday, January 24, 2011 Regular Meeting of Dublin City Council to order at 7:30 p.m. at the Dublin Municipal Building. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Mr. Gerber led the Pledge of Allegiance. ROLL CALL Present were Mayor Lecklider, Vice Mayor Salay, Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, Mr. Gerber, and Mr. Keenan. Mrs. Boring and Mr. Reiner arrived at 7:35 p.m. Staff members present were Ms. Grigsby, Mr. Smith, Mr. McDaniel, Interim Chief von Eckartsberg, Ms. Puskarcik, Ms. Crandall, Mr. Hahn, Mr. Hammersmith, Mr. Earman, Mr. Harding, Mr. Tyler, Ms. Ott, Mr. Thurman, Ms. Adkins, Ms. Gilger, Ms. Colley, and Ms. Burness. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Ms. Chinn ici-Zuercher moved approval of the minutes of the meeting of January 10, 2011. Mr. Keenan seconded the motion. Vote on the motion: Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Mr. Gerber, yes; Vice Mayor Salay, yes; Mayor Lecklider, yes. CORRESPONDENCE The Clerk reported that no correspondence had been received requiring Council action. PROCLAMATIONS /SPECIAL RECOGNITION • Recognition of MORPC for Support of Industrial Parkway Improvements Mayor Lecklider presented a proclamation to Chester Jourdan, Executive Director of the Mid -Ohio Regional Planning Commission in recognition of their support of the Industrial Parkway Improvements. These improvements, done in collaboration with the State of Ohio, Union County and the City of Dublin included the widening of SR 161 /Post Road from Cosgray Road to Eiterman Road and relocation of the intersection of Industrial Parkway with SR 161 /Post Road. Mr. Jourdan thanked Council for their strong support and commitment to projects such as this. These projects impactjob creation and economic development. He recognized his staff members present, including Bob Lawler and Nick Gill who worked on this project. MORPC is also working closely with the City on the 1- 270/33 interchange project and looks forward to continuing to support the growth of this community and Central Ohio. He congratulated Ms. Grigsby on her appointment as City Manager. CITIZEN COMMENTS Wallace Maurer, 7451 Dublin Road noted that he has a point of order to raise. Tonight's agenda includes a first reading of an ordinance related to the texting and driving matter. He wanted to discuss the issue at the last Council meeting, but did not do so out of deference to the friends of the crosswalk accident victim who were present. By tradition or rules, Council does not have citizen comment on the first reading, and therefore should he defer his comments to the second reading /public hearing? Mayor Lecklider noted that this portion of the agenda is for items not on the Council agenda. Perhaps he can make his comments about the ordinance at the next reading. Mr. Maurer stated that he would provide testimony regarding the ordinance at the next hearing. He added that the city in which he spent his childhood and early adulthood was also named one of the Top Seven Intelligent Communities. He concludes that his presence there in early years and now in Dublin has somehow impacted that honor being given to both cities! RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Dublin City Council Meeting January 24, 2011 Page 2 Christian Toms, 2562 N. Fourth Street, Columbus thanked the City for taking a close look at the crosswalk area in Historic Dublin and for sending information to them about these ongoing efforts to improve the intersection. They want to make sure that this issue is handled in a timely manner by the City. They understand that the City has recognized the dangerous nature of this intersection, and particularly to pedestrians. They would like Council to continue to review and quickly implement any planned additional illumination in the intersection. They would like to see the conversion of the overhead signage to a more graphic representation of the crosswalk versus the current text -based signage. They would like the City to consider installing stoplights, including a flashing red or solid red stop signal — activated either by the pedestrian using a button or by motion activation. The HAWK system could be an excellent fit for this intersection. The intersection carries foot traffic from the public library and local businesses along High Street. The petition they are circulating now has 500 signatures from concerned citizens of Franklin County and the City of Dublin. This will be presented at a later date. He read quotes from the signers of the petition about the dangers of the crosswalk for pedestrians. He noted that his experience is that the intersection is confusing and difficult to cross. They hope to see this crosswalk improved as soon as possible. Mayor Lecklider noted that Council has been provided with an update from staff, and this memo was shared with Mr. Toms. The City is closely examining all options that exist and he assured Mr. Toms that Council is likewise interested in a timely solution for any modifications to this intersection. LEGISLATION SECOND READING /PUBLIC HEARING - ORDINANCES Ordinance 01 -11 Authorizing the Provision of Certain Incentives to Fast Switch, Ltd., to Induce it to Retain and Expand an Office and Associated Operations and Workforce within the City; and Authorizing the Execution of an Economic Development Agreement. Ms. Gilger stated that representatives of the company are present tonight. This is a three -year, 20 percent performance incentive on new withholdings for the jobs created. It is capped at $22,000 and is offered in consideration of the company creating 25 jobs in the City of Dublin. Mark Pukita, COO of Fast Switch is present tonight. Mr. Pukita noted that the company has been located in Dublin since 1996 and has 300 employees. They want to stay in Dublin, and have committed to creation of 25 jobs between now and 2012. Last year, they grew 63 percent, and they expect to grow 25 percent each year going forward. He thanked Council and the Economic Development staff for their consideration. In response to the Mayor, Mr. Pukita indicated they are an information technology consulting firm, headquartered in Dublin, with 300 employees. The employees are not all located in Dublin, as they do business in Detroit, Cincinnati, and 20 states. With the slower economic growth, employers are using the contract employees they provide. Wallace Maurer, 7451 Dublin Road stated that his comments relate to all of the EDAs before Council tonight. The memos all include the phrase, "should the company grow according to expectations." Are these the expectations of the company, the City, of both, or of other entities? Ms. Gilger responded that this is the expectation of both the City and the company. During negotiations, the parties agree upon a growth pattern that is attainable, and the targets are based on those projections. Vote on the Ordinance: Vice Mayor Salay, yes; Mayor Lecklider, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Ms. Chinnici- Zuercher, yes; Mrs. Boring, yes; Mr. Gerber, yes. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Dublin City Council January 24, 2011 Page 3 Ordinance 02 -11 Authorizing the Provision of Certain Incentives to Equity Resources, Inc. to Induce it to Locate an Office and Associated Operations and Workforce within the City, and Authorizing the Execution of an Economic Development Agreement. Ms. Gilger stated that Equity Resources is located in Newark, Ohio and has been seeking a Franklin county location. The EDA includes a four -year, 15 percent performance incentive offered in consideration of the company creating 12 jobs. The incentive is capped at $12,500. The company has identified a location at the Bright Road office park on Sawmill Road. Paul Busta, Vice President is present tonight to address Council. Mr. Busta noted they are an independent mortgage banking company. They originate mortgage loans for one to four - family residential properties and are licensed to do business in 13 states. They operate six offices in Ohio with additional offices in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Kentucky. Currently, they have just under 100 employees. Their newest office in Dublin will be a retail outlet for mortgage originations. The representatives will generate their business from industry- related referrals and personal contacts. They currently have eight experienced individuals who will be new employees and will work in the Dublin location by March 1. Their staffing number may double by the end of 2011. He noted the reasons they were drawn to Dublin, including ease of access to 1 -270, identification in Dublin as a prestigious location, recruiting efforts are enhanced with the Dublin location, and a supportive business environment. Equity Resources thanks the City for their assistance in the company's expansion. Mayor Lecklider commented that the small businesses are the lifeblood of business in the City of Dublin. The median size of a Dublin business is seven employees. He congratulated them on their success and noted that Council is pleased they have chosen Dublin. Vote on the Ordinance: Mrs. Boring, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Ms. Chinnici- Zuercher, yes; Vice Mayor Salay, yes; Mr. Gerber, yes; Mayor Lecklider, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes. Ordinance 03 -11 Authorizing the Provision of Certain Incentives to Infomotion Sports Technologies Inc. to Induce it to Retain and Expand an Office and Associated Operations and Workforce within the City, and Authorizing the Execution of an Economic Development Agreement. Ms. Gilger stated that Infomotion Sports Technologies is located off Wilcox Road in Dublin. They are a high -tech, start-up company. The proposal tonight is for a four -year, 18 percent performance incentive, capped at $34,000, offered in consideration of the company creating 45 jobs by the end of 2014. Mark Shary, COO of the company is present to address Council tonight. Mr. Share stated that the company was founded a couple of years ago in Massachusetts and is headquartered there. They have already begun to bring jobs to the Dublin location, including two Ph.D. engineers from the University of Michigan. All of the growth in the organization will be concentrated in Dublin. They will outgrow this office space, and have talked with staff about identifying other space more conducive to a high -tech assembly process. Their business is transforming the way development skills are measured for basketball and other sports. A sensor is dropped into a ball and used to evaluate the skill and aptitude of the player. Their intent is to grow the business and create a global standard for sports training and measurement. They have received an award from the State of Ohio and from the Innovation Ohio Loan Fund. He offered to respond to questions. Mayor Lecklider noted this is a very interesting concept, and they are pleased the company is expanding into Dublin. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Dublin City Council Meeti January 24, 2011 Page 4 Held 20 Vote on the Ordinance: Mayor Lecklider, yes; Mrs. Boring, yes; Vice Mayor Salay, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Mr. Gerber, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, yes. Ordinance 04 -11 Authorizing the Provision of Certain Incentives to Healthspot, LLC to Induce it to Locate an Office and Associated Operations and Workforce within the City, and Authorizing the Execution of an Economic Development Agreement. Ms. Gilger stated that this is a start-up technology company and they have received support from the State of Ohio. This proposal is for a four -year, 18 percent performance incentive, capped at $70,000 tied to the creation of 60 jobs by the end of 2014. Steve Cashman, CEO is present to address Council. She added that a meeting is scheduled next week to discuss the potential for the Rec Center to be a beta test site for this technology. Mr. Cashman stated that Healthspot's goal is to provide the lowest cost, highest quality healthcare appointment in America. They have assembled a management team of successful entrepreneurs from the healthcare industry. They build a doctor's office equipped with all the latest technology to treat basic medical conditions. This decreases the cost of health care and makes access convenient. They have added four full -time employees since January 1, and their plans are to grow rapidly. They are working with Ohio Health, Cardinal Health, Cleveland Clinic and University Hospital within Ohio, as well as many other large IDNs throughout the U.S. to allow doctors to see patients with basic conditions in more convenient locations. He relocated to Ohio from Colorado, joining a tech company five years ago. Their family loves this area and they chose to base this company in Dublin. They have a first right of refusal for a location on the fourth floor of 94 N. High Street. Mayor Lecklider noted that Council is pleased they have chosen Dublin and looks forward to hearing more about their services. Vote on the Ordinance: Mr. Reiner, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Mrs. Boring, yes; Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, yes; Vice Mayor Salay, yes; Mr. Gerber, yes; Mayor Lecklider, yes. Ordinance 05 -11 Authorizing the Provision of Certain Incentives to Nationwide Children's Hospital, Inc. to Induce it to Construct a Facility and Associated Operations and Workforce within the City, and Authorizing the Execution of an Economic Development Agreement. Ms. Gilger stated that staff has been working with Nationwide Children's on a potential 22,000 square foot sports medicine and orthopedic facility to be added to their campus on Venture Drive. In addition, there are incentives in the proposal for a second 30,000 square foot building sometime between now and 2020. The initial proposal includes a $15,000 location grant and a five -year, 20 percent performance incentive on the new jobs only. This is offered in consideration of the creation of 52 newjobs by the end of 2015, in addition to the new building. The incentive is capped at $75,000. Staff has included a second clause of identical incentives that would be tied to a second facility sometime between now and 2020. Bill Byers, Nationwide Children's is present to address Council. Mr. Byers thanked Council for this opportunity to present tonight. Nationwide Children's has a rich history in the City of Dublin, which continues to be a community of growth and a strategic partner for the hospital and related entities. The first Dublin facility was opened in 1999, and there are now four Nationwide Children's facilities located in the City of Dublin, with over 56,000 square feet and 40 employees. The project will more than double their presence in Dublin. They had other choices in this portion of the region, but due to the attractiveness of this community and the appeal of creating a campus character in the area, they have selected Dublin. They have just completed collocating a facility with Ohio Health at Dublin Methodist Hospital. The RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Dublin City Council January 24, 2011 Page 5 new facility now set to launch is focused on orthopedic and sports medicine and will create 52 new jobs with a direct payroll of over $4 million and over $8 million in direct and indirect economic impact to the community. Nationwide Children's appreciates the great partnership with the City of Dublin. He thanked Council, Mr. McDaniel and Ms. Gilger and staff for making Dublin a great place to work and do business. He offered to respond to questions. community, and it has been embraced by the community. Mayor Lecklider commented that Council is very pleased that Nationwide Children's has chosen to expand in Dublin. Council views this facility as a real asset to the Vote on the Ordinance: Vice Mayor Salay, yes; Mayor Lecklider, yes; Mr. Gerber, yes; Mrs. Boring, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes. Ordinance 06 -11 Authorizing the Provision of Certain Incentives to Alcatel- Lucent USA Inc. to Induce it to Locate an Office and Associated Operations and Workforce within the City, and Authorizing the Execution of an Economic Development Agreement. Ms. Gilger stated that Alcatel- Lucent is currently located on E. Broad Street in Columbus, and they are moving their offices from that location. Dublin has been identified as the final choice in Ohio, but there remains out of state competition where the company has occupied facilities with extra space for relocation of these jobs. The proposal includes a $500,000 location grant that will be tied to 120,000 square feet. It will be paid in two equal installments, one calendar year apart. Also included is a pair of optical fiber in the DubLink system, and a ten -year, 20 percent performance incentive. The EDA has been modified slightly since the first reading. The company reviewed their payroll and noted that some of their traveling employees are filing for days out when on the road, and therefore they pay taxes elsewhere. Based on this, the targets were modified as well as the cap payments to limit the City's risk. The projections for withholdings decreased 21 percent as reflected in the modified documents, and the cap payments decreased 32 percent. Paul Erwin, Director of Internal Communications for Alcatel- Lucent is present to address Council. Mr. Erwin stated that Alcatel- Lucent has a deep history in the region. The prior company was Lucent Technologies, and they merged with French -based Alcatel in 2006. Prior to Lucent, they were known as Western Electric or AT &T. They are very committed to remaining in Ohio. Their existing building no longer fits the needs of the current employees. Dublin is a good location and the incentives are excellent. Furthermore, some of their customers, such as Verizon and AT &T are located in Dublin. They are looking forward to potentially locating in Dublin. Mayor Lecklider stated that Council, too, is hoping that Alcatel- Lucent will locate in Dublin and thereby retain the jobs in the region. Council is pleased that they have found Dublin as a welcoming environment from a business perspective. The City is looking forward to a good relationship with the company in the future. Mr. Erwin noted that they have a deep talent base that they would like to retain in the region. The prospects are looking very good at this time for a Dublin location. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher asked about the timeframe for the final decision. Mr. Erwin responded that they are still in negotiations with the landlord. Mr. Reiner asked if the E. Broad Street building will be completely vacated. Mr. Erwin responded affirmatively. Mr. Reiner asked how long the company has been located on E. Broad Street under all of the various business names. Mr. Erwin responded that they opened the plant in 1957. Mr. Keenan added that his father traveled from Hilliard to work at this facility before the freeway systems were in place. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Meeting Dublin City Council January 24, 2011 Page 6 Held 20 Mayor Lecklider stated that the City is available to assist in any way possible. Mr. Erwin responded that the City has been great to work with on this process. Vote on the Ordinance: Mrs. Boring, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, yes; Mr. Gerber, yes; Mayor Lecklider, yes; Vice Mayor Salay, yes. Ms. Grigsby noted that Ms. Gilger received notice that she has passed the test to become a Certified Economic Development professional. She invited her to comment. Ms. Gilger stated that the International Economic Development Council schedules this testing three times per year. There are 1,200 people in the world that hold this certification. Out of 20 who took the test recently, five achieved the certification. Council congratulated her on this achievement! Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher asked how many jobs are associated with the six EDAs on tonight's agenda — both retained and expanded in Dublin. Ms. Gilger responded that the retained jobs are 80 for existing jobs, and the newly created jobs are 767. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher commented that Columbus City Council is considering EDAs that will bring 350 jobs to the region. Therefore, the region is faring well in the State of Ohio. She thanked staff for their continued efforts. Mrs. Boring noted that all of businesses who spoke to Council tonight made very positive comments about working with the City staff. Thanks to Ms. Grigsby, Mr. McDaniel and Ms. Gilger for their hard work on these. Mayor Lecklider added that Council appreciates all of their efforts, and it is a testament to the entire City staff who support Economic Development and makes Dublin an attractive place for businesses. Council looks forward to continued success in the coming year. INTRODUCTION /FIRST READING — ORDINANCES Ordinance 07 -11 Amending the Annual Appropriations for the Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2011. Mr. Gerber introduced the ordinance. Mr. Thurman noted that each year in this timeframe, funds are appropriated for the various capital projects and for the unencumbered funds in the tree replacement fees. The majority of these requests appropriate funding for the TIF funds that relate to debt service obligations for debt issued for specific projects. The memo details each of the appropriation items. Staff is recommending that Council dispense with the public hearing and approve Ordinance 07 -11. Mr. Gerber moved to dispense with the public hearing. Mr. Keenan seconded the motion. Vote on the motion: Vice Mayor Salay, yes; Mrs. Boring, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Mayor Lecklider, yes; Mr. Gerber, yes; Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes. Vote on the Ordinance: Mr. Reiner, yes; Ms. Chinnici- Zuercher, yes; Vice Mayor Salay, yes; Mrs. Boring, yes; Mayor Lecklider, yes; Mr. Gerber, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes. Ordinance 08 -11 Amending Section 72.058 of the Codified Ordinances of Dublin, Ohio to Create a Subsection Prohibiting "Sending, Reading, or Writing a Text Message or Accessing the Internet While Driving." Mr. Keenan introduced the ordinance. Mr. Smith stated that Council requested that staff review the current driving under distraction provisions of the Code in order to address texting. Legal staff met with the Police department several times to review the legislation approved by the Ohio House RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Dublin City Council Meetine January 24, 2011 Page 7 and now pending in the Ohio Senate. Staff reviewed legislation enacted by other communities in Ohio as well. Texting while driving will be a primary offense, which means that an officer can stop a driver for this offense. The penalty was increased to an M -4 from a minor misdemeanor, which carried a fine of $100. Staff believes this ordinance is enforceable and the focus is on texting, instant messaging, and internet access while driving. Interim Chief vonEckartsberg commented that he has nothing further to add. Mrs. Boring thanked staff for bringing forward an amendment to the current Code versus an altogether new law. The memo indicates that cellular telephone calls are permitted under this amendment. However, if a driver is distracted while making a cellular call, can they still be stopped by the Police? Interim Chief vonEckartsberg responded they can be stopped for this because it relates to full time and attention to driving. Mrs. Boring noted that in some states, a driver can be stopped for simply talking on a cellular phone. She understands that this relates only to a driver who demonstrates distracted driving while on the phone. Mr. Gerber asked for clarification. Does this cover any type of activity that takes away from a driver's full time and attention? Mr. Smith responded affirmatively. Mrs. Boring thanked Mr. Keenan for his efforts in requesting the educational efforts in conjunction with this topic. She understands there has been success in securing people to sign the pledge not to text and drive. Mr. Keenan responded that staff has had contact with the family of the young man who died in a traffic accident while texting. He understands that the family is pleased with these efforts and has sent some photos and information to be included in the educational campaign. He encouraged Council to review the educational component and information. There will be a second reading /public hearing at the February 14 Council meeting. OTHER • Final Plat - National Church Residences at Avondale Woods PUD, Avondale Senior Village (Case 10 -071 FDP /FP) Ms. Ray stated this is a request for approval of a final plat for Avondale Senior Village development, zoned PUD, as part of the National Church Residences at Avondale Woods Planned Unit Development. The final plat will subdivide a 140 -acre parcel, creating two new parcels totaling approximately 17 acres for a development site, in addition to right -of -way dedication. The remaining 120 acres of land will remain undeveloped. The site is located on the west side of Avery Road, approximately one mile south of Rings Road, at the southern City boundary. It is surrounded by the City of Columbus and Washington Township. The Dublin corporation limit is shown on the slide as a black line. The CSX rail line runs along the west side of that parcel, a few hundred feet west of the development site itself. City Council approved the rezoning /preliminary development plan and preliminary plat for the National Church Residences in April 2009. It included a 200 -unit senior housing development with a community center and adult day care. The Planning & Zoning Commission reviewed the final development plan and final plat for this development at the January 6, 2011 meeting. The final development plan was tabled by Planning Commission to allow the applicant to modify the proposed site details and provide additional information. However, the Commission did recommend approval of the final plat to City Council with two conditions in order to allow the application to move forward. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Dublin City Council January 24, 2011 Page 8 Held 20 This proposal includes two parcels that coincide with the two phases of development. The first phase consists of the northern parcel of 11.8 acres and will include 100 units, the eastern half of the three -story buildings and the community center. The southern parcel is 5.2 acres and will be developed with the second phase of the project. The final plat also includes 2.6 acres of dedicated right -of -way for the new public road, Avondale Woods Boulevard (1.19 acres), which will provide access to the site. Right - of -way is also dedicated to the City of Dublin for the future improvement of Avery Road (1.5 acres). The Avery Road right -of -way will be dedicated to the City of Columbus when they are prepared to make improvements to Avery Road in this area. Columbus has not indicated a timeline for this improvement. Therefore, for the time being, the land will be dedicated to the City of Dublin. The traffic study for this development determined that turn lanes are required. A northbound left turn lane onto Avondale Woods Boulevard and a southbound right turn lane onto Avondale Woods Boulevard are needed. A stop sign will be placed on Avondale Woods Boulevard itself. The final plat includes bikepath easements along the northeast and south site boundaries, which will help reinforce the regional bicycle connections in this portion of the City. A stormwater management system is being proposed, ultimately to provide stormwater management for the surrounding area — the overall 140 acre tract. In the meantime, a stormwater management easement is provided to the north of the development site itself. The Commission recommended City Council approval of the final plat with the following two conditions: 1) That a bikepath easement be provided along the south property line; and 2) That the applicant coordinate with the property owner and Planning to finalize the new public street name prior to the final plat proceeding to City Council. All conditions have been met on the revised plans. Mrs. Boring noted that the City has asked developers to install fencing around the drip line of trees to prevent damage to existing trees during the development phase. Can this be incorporated into the conditions? Ms. Ray stated that tree protection fencing is proposed for this application with the final development plan. This should address the concern. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher moved approval of the final plat. Mr. Gerber seconded the motion. Vote on the motion: Mayor Lecklider, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Mrs. Boring, yes; Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, yes; Mr. Gerber, yes; Vice Mayor Salay, yes. • Appeals Process to City Council for Administrative Decisions of Planning & Zoning Commission Mr. Smith stated that a memo has been provided by Legal staff, as well as a draft ordinance. The draft includes a number of questions to be considered. Legal staff has been working on this for some period of time with the goal of providing this to Council in February. He recalls that Mr. Gerber had requested that this be brought forward so that it could be referred to the Community Development Committee for recommendation to Council. There are some policy issues involved, and more discussion is needed — either by a Committee or by Council tonight. Ultimately, the ordinance would be forwarded to the Planning and Zoning Commission, but clear policy direction from Council is needed. This would significantly change the way that City conducts business; will provide Council with more control over managing litigation; will afford Council with the discretion to hear all matters; and facilitate handling of these matters more quickly and less expensively. Mr. Gerber stated that referral to Committee is his desire, but he is not certain of the other Council's members' intent. The draft is well done and thorough. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council MeetinL, January 24, 2011 Page 9 Vice Mayor Salay noted she did not recall that Council intended to refer this to the Community Development Committee. Perhaps a Committee of the Whole would be appropriate, as all of Council is very interested in this topic. It is a serious policy issue and needs input from all members. Mr. Smith added that the Planning staff would like to have input as well. It can be scheduled on an upcoming agenda, if Council desires. Vice Mayor Salay suggested this would be an appropriate topic for a study or workshop format. Mr. Reiner agreed. Mr. Smith and Ms. Grigsby agreed. Mrs. Boring suggested that this be reviewed in a Community Development Committee of the Whole, with Mr. Reiner as Chair.. Vice Mayor Salay agreed that this could be a Community Development Committee of the Whole meeting, with Mr. Reiner chairing it. Ms. Grigsby stated that staff would identify some dates for this meeting in the near future. STAFF COMMENTS Ms. Grigsby noted: 1. The packet included a memo regarding the leisure pool resurfacing. Staff plans to bring forward legislation at the next meeting requesting that Council waive the competitive bidding requirements, based on this information. 2. Earlier tonight, there was reference to the City of Dublin being named as one of the Top Seven International Intelligent Communities. 3. At the February 14 meeting, staff plans to have an Engineering presentation on the Brand Road multi -use path and bike lane preliminary alignment. 4. In the Council follow -up memo in the packet, there is reference made to the changes implemented to address the concerns expressed about the traffic signal timing at Emerald and Perimeter. Vice Mayor Salay noted that she has observed that 10 or more cars have been able to make the turn movement now. This has substantially improved the movement of traffic in this location. COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS /COUNCIL ROUNDTABLE Mr. Keenan that the packet included an update on the Emerald Ash borer in the street trees in various neighborhoods. Is the City taking any measures related to the mature Emerald ash trees in the woodland areas of the City? Mr. Hahn responded that the City is currently not taking any such action. The current program relates to the stand -alone specimen grade landscape trees. Mr. Keenan asked if the older trees are more or less at risk. Mr. Hahn responded that, typically, any pest preys upon weakened trees — whether mature or newly planted. Mr. Keenan suggested that perhaps trees of a certain circumference or size could be identified and treated if needed. Mr. Hahn responded that staff can provide more comprehensive information. There are some rare subspecies of ash in the woodlands that may warrant protection. Mr. Reiner commented favorably regarding the City being named again to the Top Seven Intelligent Communities list. Mr. McDaniel responded that this year's focus was on health and wellness. The City has some great initiatives underway in this area, and so staff decided to reapply this year. Ms. Chinnici- Zuercher: 1. Noted that she and Ms. Grigsby attended the MORPC Board meeting last week. The EcoSummit of the world will be held in Columbus in 2012. This is an extraordinary opportunity for MORPC, Ohio State and others that applied to RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Dublin City Council January 24, 2011 Page 10 be selected to host this conference. Dublin is planning to participate, and MORPC has asked other cities to engage in the conference as well. With Dublin's emphasis on the green initiatives, this is a good opportunity. She asked Ms. Grigsby to comment. Ms. Grigsby stated that staff has been in discussion with MORPC staff regarding various opportunities. There are various levels of sponsorships and field trips that can be sponsored. Dublin is evaluating the field trip options, as Dublin has some programs /facilities that meet their criteria. Ms. Adkins and Ms. Puskarcik are coordinating with MORPC staff on this endeavor, and staff will bring forward a proposal for Council to consider in the future. MORPC anticipates 2 -3,000 people attending this summit. 2. Commented regarding the memo about cemetery lot sales, which indicates there are less than 19 lots available at this point. She believes that some communication to the public is needed to let the citizens know that unless the City elects to purchase additional land, this is the extent of the City's participation in a cemetery available to citizens. As Council is aware, the development opportunity for the Monterey Road area has not moved forward due to the economic situation. Perhaps there is an option available of purchasing the land that was to be exchanged as part of that development plan. She asked Council if they would support having staff investigate the costs of purchasing the land that would have been exchanged so that there would be the potential of additional cemetery lots available to the citizens. It was the consensus of Council to have staff provide this information to Council. Ms. Grigsby stated that staff will follow up. 3. Noted that the memo regarding the Wyandot Elementary outdoor nature laboratory was very interesting. The teacher and principal should be commended. 4. Asked for clarification regarding the memo from Engineering about N. High Street crosswalk modifications. Is staff seeking direction from Council about obtaining an estimate for the costs of the HAWK system? If that is the case, she moves that staff proceed with obtaining costs for purchase and installation of the HAWK system. Mr. Gerber seconded the motion. Ms. Grigsby noted that staff also will proceed with changing out the lighting and overhead signage, as referenced in the memo. Mayor Lecklider asked staff to provide additional information with respect to the motion detection system, if Council is interested in pursuing that. Mr. Keenan responded that the memo addressed this issue, indicating that such a system could provide a false sense of security in this environment with angled entrances to the crosswalk. Mr. Hammersmith stated that part of the concern relates to the hardware available and with false calls for the signal, due to background pedestrians walking by the crosswalk. It would give an exaggerated sense of security, given the environment that exists. Mr. Keenan asked if there are ways to improve awareness of the signal button to pedestrians. Could the signage be improved to encourage people to use the push buttons? Mr. Hammersmith stated that a placard is currently in place to indicate this. Mr. Keenan asked if the HAWK system allows for a motion sensor. Mr. Hammersmith responded that this system is pedestrian activated but requires pushing a button. Mr. Keenan stated that perhaps it could be coordinated with a motion detector. Mr. Hammersmith responded that it is a different system, but the motion detector would work the same in terms of activating the system. Staff's concern with what is available in the market is that the range is too wide and would trigger false calls when no pedestrians are trying to cross. Mr. Keenan stated that there are some of these in place in the bicycle path crossings. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting January 24, 2011 Page 11 Mr. Hammersmith responded that these are purely bikepath crossings, and do not include parallel sidewalks or pathways nearby. Mr. Keenan stated that he is comfortable with directing staff to gather information on the HAWK system for further consideration. Vice Mayor Salay suggested that vegetation could be added in that area to make it difficult for pedestrians to step off the curb unless they are in front of the crosswalk. Mr. Hammersmith responded that this may be possible on the west side of the crosswalk. He believes that additional lighting, particularly at night, will help to illuminate the crosswalk and identify the appropriate location in which to cross. Mayor Lecklider asked if there would be any value in installing bollards as are used on the bikepaths. Perhaps it would cause the pedestrians to pay more attention to their surroundings. Mr. Hammersmith responded that staff could review devices to raise pedestrian awareness; the focus has been on raising motorist awareness of the pedestrians. The bollards along the bikepath are designed to keep vehicles from driving on the bikepath. Mayor Lecklider stated that in the Glacier Ridge bikepath crossing at McKitrick, the bollards are in place along with signage indicating a road crossing ahead. Mrs. Boring asked for clarification about the proposal for the overhead signage at the crosswalk. Mr. Hammersmith responded that the proposal is to change the "Yield to Pedestrians" white rectangular sign with the graphic sign shown on the first page of the memo. The pedestrian symbol will remain on the mast arms. Mrs. Boring asked if the signage will be included in the system when staff brings back the costs to Council. Mr. Hammersmith responded that the signage would not be part of the HAWK system. It would include different signage. Mrs. Boring stated that she believes that a designated crosswalk sign is still warranted in this location. Mr. Hammersmith responded that there will be signage in conjunction with a HAWK system, but the information has not been gathered to that extent. Ms. Grigsby asked if the signage would be on the mast arm. Mr. Hammersmith responded that he cannot guarantee this, due to the need to be consistent with the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices requirements for the HAWK system. Vice Mayor Sala v 1. Noted that interview dates for board and commissions should be scheduled, and there are two evenings identified on the calendar: Monday, March 7 and Tuesday, March 15. There were no objections to scheduling of these dates for interviews. Ms. Salay asked the Clerk to post the online applications for the positions to be filled. 2. Reported that the goal setting retreat has been scheduled on Thursday, February 24 beginning at 5:30 p.m. and Friday, February 25 all day. More details and opportunity for input will take place in the next week. 3. Congratulated Ms. Grigsby on the wonderful reception held earlier this evening. Mrs. Boring: 1. Congratulated Ms. Grigsby, noting that the large turnout at the reception was a testament to her and her presence in the region. 2. Noted that Cheryl Herbert, President of Dublin Methodist Hospital is being promoted to a new position at Ohio Health. She suggested that an appropriate congratulatory note be sent to her. Ms. Chinn ici-Zuercher added that such notes should also be sent to the other people who are assuming new roles at Dublin Methodist Hospital. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Meet Dublin City Council ` January 24, 2011 Page 12 Mayor Lecklider: 1. Echoed the favorable comments regarding Ms. Grigsby's reception. It was a nice opportunity for staff and the community to join in the celebration. Congratulations, Ms. Grigsby! 2. In the packet tonight was information about businesses open at the BriHi Square, including the Woodhouse Spa and Mr. Sushi. Council is looking forward to having more occupants at the Square in the future, including the Mezzo restaurant opening in the spring. ADJOURNMENT TO EXECUTIVE SESSION Mayor Lecklider moved to adjourn to executive session at 8:48 p.m. for discussion of collective bargaining matters (preparing for, conducting or reviewing negotiations with public employees) and personnel matters (to consider the appointment, employment, dismissal, discipline, promotion, demotion, or compensation of a public employee or official). Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher seconded the motion. Vote on the motion: Mr. Keenan, yes; Mayor Lecklider, yes; Mr. Gerber, yes; Vice Mayor Salay, yes; Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Mrs. Boring, yes. The meeting was reconvened at 9:30 p.m. and formally adjourned. Mayor . O fficer Clerk of Council