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HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-14-13 Council MinutesRECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Nlinut�s�P Dublin City Council _weti January 14, 2013 Mayor Lecklider called the Monday, January 14, 2013 Regular Meeting of Dublin City Council to order at 6:30 p.m. at the Dublin Municipal Building. ADJOURNMENT TO EXECUTIVE SESSION Mayor Lecklider moved to adjourn to executive session to discuss legal matters (to confer with an attorney for the public body concerning disputes involving the public body that are the subject of pending or imminent court action), land acquisition matters (to consider the purchase of property for public purposes), and personnel matters (to consider the appointment of a public employee or official) Mr. Gerber seconded the motion. Vote on the motion: Mr. Reiner, yes; Mr. Gerber, yes; Ms. Chinnici- Zuercher, yes; Vice Mayor Salay, yes; Mayor Lecklider, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes. The meeting was reconvened at 7:15 p.m. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Mr. Reiner led the Pledge of Allegiance. ROLL CALL Council members present were Mayor Lecklider, Vice Mayor Salay, Ms. Chinnici- Zuercher, Mr. Gerber, Mr. Keenan and Mr. Reiner. Mrs. Boring was absent (excused) due to out of town travel related to a family illness. Staff members present were Ms. Grigsby, Mr. Smith, Mr. McDaniel, Ms. Mumma, Chief Von Eckartsberg, Ms. Crandall, Ms. Ott, Mr. Hammersmith, Mr. Langworthy, Mr. Hahn, Mr. Thurman, Mr. Edwards, Ms. Colley, Ms. Husak, Ms. LeRoy, Mr. Tyler, Sergeant Hungler, and Officer Ricca. PRESENTATIONS Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Award of Excellence — Officer Paul Ricca Chief Von Eckartsberg noted that Officer Ricca was recognized on December 6, 2012 as one of the recipients of the MADD "Award of Excellence." Officer Ricca has consistently been the department leader in OVI enforcement each month. He has maintained this impressive pace despite being away for military duty one weekend each month, as well as attending several weeks of annual military duty as a Captain in the U.S. Army Reserve. Officer Ricca has demonstrated a high level of proficiency in recognizing impaired drivers and has been commended by the City's Prosecutor for excellence in case preparation. He has shown true dedication towards the Division goal of improving safety by reducing impaired driving in the Dublin community. He asked those present to join in congratulating Officer Ricca on this accomplishment. Officer Ricca thanked Council for this recognition, adding that it is a privilege to serve the City. He believes that OVI enforcement is the right step in making the City safer for everyone. Award of Merit — Sergeant Craig Hungler Chief Von Eckartsberg stated that Sgt. Hungler works with the F.O.P. Critical Incident Response service. This is a group of highly trained law enforcement officers, supported by mental health professionals, who respond to critical incidents involving First Responders. Sergeant Hungler is one of the few individuals called to respond to the 9 -11 attacks in September 2001, to Hurricane Katrina in 2005, and to Newtown, Connecticut in December 2012. This award recognizes Sgt. Hungler's actions in response to the crimes that occurred in Newtown, Connecticut. They reflect the highest standards and core values of the Division of Police. For his dedication in providing help and guidance to members of the law enforcement profession in their time of need, he presented the Division's Award of Merit. He added this is the second Award of Merit that Sergeant Hungler has received. Sergeant Hungler thanked Council and the Chief for this award. He noted that he is blessed to work for a City that, without hesitation, allows him to go with his counseling team to care for first responders — wherever the need. This means a great deal to him, RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS utes of Dublin City Council January 14, 2013 Meeting Page 2 and he appreciates the support of City Council, the City Manager, and the administration at the Police Division. He attends ceremonies in Washington, D.C. each year, which honor the fallen officers killed in the line of duty. A number of years ago he served as President of the International Conference of Police Chaplains. During his time as President, he was provided with a certain number of Presidential recognition awards that he could give out during his term and after his term ended. He saved a few for an occasion such as this, and he presented one to Chief von Eckartsberg in recognition of his support over the years. He also presented an award to City Council in recognition of the support they give to him in this mission of caring for police officers throughout the country. On behalf of Council, Mayor Lecklider thanked Officer Ricca for his service to Dublin and to the country through his military service. He thanked Sergeant Hungler for his generous sharing of this special award with City Council and for his service over many years, which reflects very positively on the Dublin community. CITIZEN COMMENTS Wallace Maurer, 7451 Dublin Road noted that: 1. The Nestle' Company, who requested fee fiber optic access from the City, has been engaged in an aggressive bottled water program around the world. The significance of this is that the "losers" will be the poor who cannot afford water. He did a Google search of Nestle and discovered their masthead statement — "Nestle' is the world's foremost nutrition, health and wellness company. Our focus is on responsible nutrition, promoting health and wellness." In probing further, he discovered that Nestle' is the largest water bottling company in the country, and had some lawsuits filed against them for this product. One of the lawsuits in Connecticut was reportedly settled for $10 million. He urged Council members to do a Google search on this topic. He believes that the City should not grant Nestle' free access to fiber optics. He will bring up this topic again in the future. 2. He believes that the City might benefit from a debate between himself and Mr. Dring, Executive Director of the Convention Bureau about the richest flowering of this City. He gathers that the DCVB would like to "carpet" the City with things Irish throughout the stores, and go all out to market the City as Irish. He would love to engage in a debate with him. He will continue this topic next time. Mayor Lecklider noted that a member of the public had previously raised some questions about Nestle' and Nestle' offered a rebuttal regarding the issues. He added that everything read on Google or other media cannot be completely relied upon. Perhaps Nestle' may have a rebuttal to these issues. A lawsuit is a matter of a public record, and there could be a variety of reasons that an international company would settle a lawsuit for $10 million. He is not aware of the specific circumstances. Mr. Maurer added that water is the new oil. Whatever the charges against Nestle' are, the consequence is that the sufferers around the world will be the poor people who will not be able to afford to buy water. CONSENT AGENDA Mayor Lecklider noted that six items are proposed for action on the consent agenda. He asked whether any Council member requests removal of an item for further consideration under the regular agenda. Hearing none, Mayor Lecklider moved approval of actions requested for the six items as proposed on the consent agenda. Vice Mayor Salay seconded the motion. Vote on the motion: Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Mayor Lecklider, yes; Mr. Gerber, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Vice Mayor Salay, yes. 1. Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes of December 10, 2012 2. Notice to Legislative Authority re New D5 liquor permit for J. Liu of Dublin, Inc. dba Scioto Room, 38 W. Bridge Street RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Mi aU_W s of _ Dublin City Council January 14, 2013 Meetin.- 3. Notice to Legislative Authority re New DS1 and D6 liquor permits for American Multi Cinema, Inc., dba AMC Theatres, 6700 Village Parkway 4. Notice to Legislative Authority re Transfer of TREX D1 liquor permit from Tamarkin Co., dba Kingsdale Market District 6515, 3061 Kingsdale Center, Upper Arlington, OH to Tamarkin Co., dba Giant Eagle 6520, 6700 Perimeter Loop Road, Dublin, OH S. Approval of Final Plat — Tartan Ridge, Section 5 -1 (Case 12- 080FDP/FP) 6. Ordinance 02 -13 (Introduction /first reading) Adopting the 2013 Residential Code of Ohio, With Modifications, as the Dublin Residential Code. (Second reading /public hearing January 28, 2013 Council meeting) SECOND READING /PUBLIC HEARING - ORDINANCES Ordinance 74 -12 Amending Section 2 (Wage & Salary Structure /Administration) of Ordinance No. 73 -06 ( "Compensation Plan for Non -Union Personnel "). Ms. Grigsby stated that this legislation includes adjustments to the pay ranges for non - bargaining unit employees. If approved, it will be in effect from January 2013 through the end of 2014. The same review process used in recent years has been utilized, including a market study done each two years by consultant Martha Solano. A meeting was held today with supervisors to review the information. The memo also includes information about the deletion of a position for 2013, two new positions in the 2013 operating budget and the slotting of those two positions in the pay grades. Ms. Solano is present to respond to any questions relating to the methodology or review of the data in preparation of this document. Ms. Grigsby noted that the last time there was an increase in the pay ranges was following the 2008 review, and it was effective for the 2009 -2010 pay ranges. The review completed in 2010 indicated no need for adjustment, and so it has been four years since an adjustment was made to the pay ranges. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher stated that, given the economic situation over the past few years, she was interested in the percent increase in general terms being recommended. However, given the fact that there was no increase in pay ranges for 2010 -2011, it may be a contributing factor to the proposed increases in the pay ranges being higher than what she anticipated. Government jobs have decreased in number in the state and the region, and so she would have anticipated no increase in salary ranges. However, she is aware that much of the discussion has been comprehensive, and included benefits and salary levels. Ms. Grigsby responded that, as noted in the memo, the various positions in the compensation plan experienced different adjustments in the market survey. There are several classifications where there is not an adjustment proposed to the pay ranges. The information is strictly based upon market data that considers two- thirds public sector information and one -third private sector information. It is a broad review of positions that are similar to the positions listed in the City's compensation plan. For the pay grade with a range adjustment of four percent, over the last four years it would average one percent per year. Mr. Keenan asked if the majority of the review work for this system took place several years ago. Ms. Grigsby responded that in 2004 -2005, the compensation plan was reviewed, including adjustments to pay ranges. At that time, it was determined that a market study should be undertaken every two years. The City has done this since the implementation of this system in 2006. Wallace Maurer, 7451 Dublin Road: 1. Asked for a breakdown of union and non -union personnel in the City. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council LEGAL BLANK. INC.. FORM NO 10149 January 14, - 2013 Meeting Ms. Grigsby responded that she does not have that information at hand, but can provide that to him. 2. Asked what employee groups are unionized? Ms. Grigsby responded that the three groups that are unionized are the Police officers who are in the Fraternal Order of Police; the communication technicians /dispatchers who are in another unit of the F.O.P.; and the maintenance workers and mechanics that are in the United Steelworkers union. 3. Asked for more information about the position of specialist for public art conservation. He observes that this position is categorized as an implementer in the pay bands. He notes that this matrix has been carefully thought out and must have been a very collaborative effort. It is a substantive breakdown. What would staff consider the qualifications to be for a public art conservationist, and his /her relationship to art? Ms. Grigsby stated that this position would perform two main functions: maintenance of public art and providing for timely preservation of the public art in place for the City; and contract administration for the City, related to art or other areas as needed. This position will have a dual role. Vote on the Ordinance: Vice Mayor Salay, yes; Mayor Lecklider, yes; Mr. Gerber, yes; Mr. Keenan, yes; Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes. INTRODUCTION/ FIRST READING — ORDINANCES Ordinance 01 -13 Rezoning Approximately 2.9 Acres Located on the North Side of Perimeter Drive, Between the Intersections with Avery Muirfield Drive and Hospital Drive from PCD, Planned Commerce District (Riverside PCD North, Subarea A3) to PUD, Planned Unit Development District (Riverside North, Subarea A3) to Facilitate the Development of the Site with an Approximately 14,500 - square -foot Retail Building, Including Restaurant Spaces and Associated Patios. (Case 12- 073Z /PDP /FDP) (Second reading /public hearing January 28 Council meeting) Mr. Gerber introduced the ordinance. Ms. Husak stated that the ordinance was reviewed by the Planning & Zoning Commission in December 2012 and recommended for approval. The application is a modification to development text to allow retail uses on a site within the Riverside Planned Commerce District. This district includes the retail building that currently houses Matt the Miller, Potbelly, and includes various medical buildings and the Primrose Daycare. She noted the following: • The proposal is for a 14,500 square -foot building. Mr. Ghidotti, representing applicant Daimler Group is present. He has also developed the remainder of this PCD, and has had some interest from restaurant tenants about this site. Subarea A3 is the subject of the ordinance, and in the development text, only the standards and uses for this particular subarea are proposed for change. • She shared the site plan as proposed and approved by the Planning Commission. It includes the retail building along the southern portion of the site, which fronts Perimeter Drive and has two access points internally to the site that are shared with the other uses within that Center. Two patio spaces are also shown on either end, and it is the intention for those two areas to be used by restaurants. • An ample plaza area is shown to the north. This could include more informal seating, depending upon the type of uses in the remaining tenant spaces. • The applicant meets the Code for parking. There are some more detailed sign standards within the development text for this particular area. • She shared renderings of some elevations, noting there are more detailed renderings in the packet. Primary building materials are brick and stone, and materials also include siding. Some portions of the building will have standing seam roof in a dark burgundy color. • The elevations also show the signs as approved by the Planning Commission. They are generally flat signs of wood material with track lighting beneath them. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Dublin City Council Meeting January 14, 2013_ In addition, each tenant can have a smaller blade sign that is more pedestrian oriented. Two wall signs are permitted for each tenant. Vice Mayor Salay noted that the signs as shown have a uniform font and are externally illuminated. Ms. Husak responded that the signs are externally illuminated, but do not necessarily have a uniform font. The font would not be uniform, but the colors would match the building materials. Vice Mayor Salay stated that the text indicates that internally illuminated signs are permitted and corporate logos are incorporated. This seems quite "busy." She pointed out that what is being shown tonight is not reflective of what is indicated in the text. It is important to understand exactly what the product will look like. In reviewing the text, this is an option within the text, but it is certainly not the only option. Ms. Husak responded that lighting, specifically, was a concern of the Planning Commission. They asked the applicant to eliminate in the development text the option of internal illumination. The text has been updated to reflect this, as shown on page 16. The lineal, fluorescent track light shown in these elevations is the only permitted lighting at this point. Vice Mayor Salay noted that she recalls reading in the materials that internally illuminated signs are permitted. Ms. Husak stated that it is possible that the other subareas would permit that at this point. Ms. Husak noted in regard to colors that they would have to meet Code where the logo could be a color. There is not a limitation in the text, currently, that the text or any graphics on the sign could only be one color. If that is something Council wants to add, that can be considered. • The Commission recommended approval with four requested changes to the development text, and those have all been integrated into the text provided to Council. • Staff is recommending approval of the ordinance at the second reading /public hearing on January 28. She noted that the applicant is present to respond to any questions. Mr. Reiner stated that he is pleased that the applicant is providing more parking than what is required. Is that related to the potential for two restaurants? Ms. Husak responded affirmatively. Staff and the Commission had concerns about parking needs for restaurants with peak hour patrons. They encouraged the applicant to explore shared parking options and they have been able to have a positive outcome with Champaign Bank. Mr. Gerber stated that in reviewing the materials, it appears the Commission encouraged the applicant to be creative with the signage. He asked Ms. Husak to elaborate. Ms. Husak responded that the sign topic is sensitive to both staff and the Commission. There was discussion at the time of the informal review of the application about doing something different and creative. At the same time, however, the architecture is very traditional and in keeping with the area within which the development is located. Staff struggled with this issue. A commissioner had suggested that perhaps the applicant could move away from the gooseneck lights and do something different. The applicant has chosen to pursue this option. The Commission is definitely seeking signage that is different from what has existed in Dublin, but they are also sensitive to the areas in which this approach is appropriate. Mr. Gerber asked if this was the result of direction from Council or something the Commission initiated. Ms. Husak responded that it is a combination. The Commission has definitely seen planned unit development districts where applicants have tried to do something different or have had different needs. Signs have been a topic of discussion of late, and were a topic of a recent work session. Vice Mayor Salay recalled that Council declined to have further discussion about signage in view of the more important priorities at hand. Her concern is that what she envisioned for RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS tes of Dublin City Council Me efzn g January 14, - 2013 creativity and innovation relative to signs was specifically for the Bridge Street District and that Council believed it was a place appropriate for that creativity. Outside of that District, Council indicated they are pleased with the status quo in signage and the results that have been obtained with the current regulations. Her preference is to maintain the current standards for other areas, as "creative" is certainly a subjective judgment. The community is accustomed to a certain kind of signage. Outside of the Bridge Street District, she does not want a creative signage approach to be incorporated. This could have a domino effect. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher stated that she is confused, as what is being shown is the same type of signage that already exists in the area. The lighting may be different, but the other development took place many years ago and there have been changes to lighting types over the years. Mr. Gerber agreed, noting that he merely wanted to affirm the direction that Council has given on this topic. Ms. Husak responded that the Commission found this minor change acceptable for this building. Mr. Gerber asked about logos, and if they can now be incorporated in signage throughout the City. Ms. Husak stated that has always been the policy. The permissible colors for logo signage is what was modified by Code. Mayor Lecklider asked if there was discussion about outdoor speakers or music for the patio areas. Ms. Husak responded that such speakers are not permitted, as reflected in this text. Staff was aware of the proximity to residential areas to the north and the potential impact on them. Mayor Lecklider explained that there were issues raised by Lowell Trace residents and those to the north about potential outdoor speakers at the BW3 restaurant at the time the development was proposed. Mr. Reiner stated that he is pleased that the outdoor dining at the front is included for this application versus coming back for such approval at a later date. Ms. Husak responded that outdoor dining is permitted up to a certain square footage. There is an overall square footage cap for this. Paul Ghidotti, Daimler Grouo stated that this is the first project they are doing in Dublin in some time. This three -acre tract, in particular, has been quite challenging. Daimler Group developed the overall 24 acres and, in partnership with Ohio Health, developed the area bounded by Perimeter, Avery and Post, securing that approval in the first quarter of 2004. Over the past 9 years, they have developed over 100,000 square feet of office on the 24 acres -- the Avery Shops Retail Center, which is quite successful; the Champaign Bank; the Huntington Bank; and a successful daycare facility. They have struggled with these 2.9 acres, which is zoned for two sit -down restaurants. They have talked to 6 -7 restaurants over the past 9 years and all have struggled with the size of the parcel they need to make a 5 -6,000 square foot restaurant work. There would be little residual remaining for development of the parcel. They have worked with Planning staff, and went through the informal process in September. They received good feedback and returned in December to P&Z. Given the elevations and the architecture, there is little discretion as the neighborhood has already been developed and they are aware of what is appropriate in this area. Trying to deviate dramatically from that would be a mistake and would look out of place. Therefore, they have chosen a similar style of architecture, using the same architect who worked on the Avery Shops. In reviewing lighting, signage and other components, there was a request to do something different from gooseneck lighting, and the architect is therefore proposing band lighting, which will be uniform for each sign. The signs will be a wood board and will appear very similar to what exists at the Avery Shops, with the addition of one color. That would allow for someone to do a logo on the banded signs. There is more text included than with Avery Shops. He is hopeful that RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS LVlinute� Dublin City Council Meeting Council is comfortable with what has been presented tonight. He offered to respond to any questions. They are looking forward to the construction and opening of this project. Mr. Keenan asked about ingress and egress for the fire department, especially in view of the experience with the nearby Huntington Bank. Has that issue been addressed? Mr. Ghidotti responded that it has been addressed, noting that this site has much better access — both to Perimeter and to the private drive. There are three points of access along that private road system. Mr. Keenan commented that he is not certain that a ladder truck could access this site, but he is satisfied with the response from the applicant. Vice Mayor Salay commented about the signage, noting that her previous comments were not directed to this site specifically — but rather about signage in general and where the City is headed. She appreciates Mr. Ghidotti's details about the signage plans. Mr. Ghidotti noted that on the blade sign on the north side — a projecting sign — there was much discussion about unique signage for some tenants. This was only to be viewed from the north side and would only be pedestrian in nature. It would not be viewable from the main streets. Until the developer can identify who the users will be, they are not certain of the appearance. The text does allow for some creativity, and there seems to be opportunity for something unique, yet appropriate. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher stated that she is pleased that the Daimler Group is once again developing in Dublin. Mayor Lecklider stated Mr. Ghidotti has mentioned the size of the site and challenge for restaurant development. Is Mr. Ghidotti satisfied that this development proposal will work on the site and that there is adequate land to accommodate this square footage? Mr. Ghidotti responded that having a single building versus multiple buildings results in savings. Secondly, there is some inline retail space that can help subsidize. Finally, when someone is willing to make the initial investment and a tenant can then enter into a 10- year lease based on square footage — this is more viable for prospective tenants. Given this, they have had good interest in this site, but have not signed any tenants at this point. They want to make sure that Council is comfortable with what is being presented. There is little available space in Avery Square and Perimeter Center, and there are many new food service users who have been the second or third generation user. There is a need in this area for more food service operators. There will be a second reading /public hearing at the January 28 Council meeting. STAFF COMMENTS Ms. Grigsby reported that a memo was included in the packet in regard to video interviews with other government agencies and elected officials. Staff wants to gauge the interest of City Council in using videos for various purposes and occasions throughout the year. She asked that Council provide any feedback prior to staff identifying the various entities and individuals to be interviewed. The goal is to have more video available for City communication efforts. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher commented that she is supportive of using more video, as citizens are interested in more live production to obtain information. This is an interesting venue to bring forward. She emphasized that what is brought forward should focus on issues and not party politics. That will be an important consideration for the topics being explored and the speakers selected to educate the citizens about the topic. Ms. Grigsby noted that staff concurs, and has discussed the need to be cognizant of elections and timeframes of the year. Part of the goal is to recognize partnerships created and some of the benefits to projects that will move forward, such as the 1- 270/33 interchange. Staff will take this comment into careful consideration. Mayor Lecklider asked if the memo regarding Acting City Manager succession is for information only. Ms. Grigsby responded that this is an annual designation that she is required to make early in each year. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes oL— Dublin City Council Meeting January 14, 2013 Mayor Lecklider asked if there are any additional comments by staff regarding the snow removal efforts. Ms. Grigsby responded that from her perspective, there are always challenges with snow removal. Staff did an excellent job in addressing the snow and ice situation. There were some complaints, but based on the number of residents, they were fairly minimal. Staff did an excellent job of ensuring the streets were safe and clear within a reasonable timeframe. COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS /COUNCIL ROUNDTABLE Mr. Gerber stated that the Council Special Committee regarding KIA Recognition met on January 2 at staff's request in order to clarify some direction given previously regarding design details. The minutes of the meeting were included in the Council packet. The project will continue to move forward. Mr. Reiner: 1. Stated that he is interested in revisiting Dublin's water system in a comprehensive way. In the late 1980s, the City looked at the possibility of drilling wells at Darree Fields. It was found that there was adequate water supply to serve Dublin, as well as Marysille and Powell. It appears there is an aquifer running from Chicago to South Carolina, and it borders the western edge of the City. He is aware that Dublin residents pay a surcharge to Columbus for their water supply. He is interested in the City investigating the costs of drilling those wells and the costs of constructing a pumping station to serve a water system. With Dublin's current health initiative, he has done some reading and learned that the average person in Atlanta drinks water processed through a human being four times. In talking with some who were involved in the Darree Fields drilling, they indicated the water was of very high quality. It would be desirable to relieve the citizens of the tax burden imposed by the surcharges. He is simply proposing this be investigated so that the residents of the Dublin would not have to pay surcharges to Columbus for water. Ms. Grigsby noted that there have been discussions over time about the 30 percent surcharge for water. Some of the current restrictions /limitations are that the water and sewer agreements with Columbus run until 2043. There are many considerations and issues to be addressed. Staff has had discussion about some other options to consider with regard to the 30 percent surcharge. Staff will continue to monitor and evaluate those to determine if there are viable options. Initiating a new City water system would be challenging at this point in time. The issues would be engineering related as well as cost. The evaluation of the aquifer Mr. Reiner references was done in the mid to late 1980s, and she is not aware if the conditions have changed. There are many elements to consider with regard to this topic. Mayor Lecklider commented that he is not suggesting Mr. Reiner's idea does not warrant consideration in theory, but there is a contractual impediment for the next 30 years. Ms. Grigsby responded that the current agreements with the City of Columbus for water and sewer services run through 2043. These were 50 -year agreements when entered into. Mr. Keenan added that much of this issue relates to the merger discussion that took place in the late 1980s. The township supported the merger proposal, but the City did not. Much of the information circulated at the time for the voters indicated a merger could result in a shutoff of the water supply from Columbus. The merger was defeated by the voters. He noted that the aquifers were explored at the time due to the merger proposal, and they confirmed a huge aquifer existing under Darree Fields and Homestead Park with a tremendous supply of water. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Dublin City Council January 14, 2 013 -- ia - ' Ms. Grigsby added that part of the reason this was reviewed in the late 1980s was the fact that the City's water and sewer agreements with Columbus had expired and Dublin was involved in difficult negotiations with Columbus. The option of having a separate water and sewer system for Dublin was explored. Mr. Gerber commented that the system is a large asset and resource, and a 30 percent surcharge for the suburbs is not equitable. If the residents of Dublin have to endure this for another 40 years, options should be explored. Mr. Keenan stated that it is not only a surcharge for water usage, but for the water taps that include separate fees for Columbus and Dublin. Ms. Grigsby responded that staff would need to review this. Many entities have higher tap fees. Marysville has its own system and their tap fees are considerably higher than Dublin's, and in some cases higher than Dublin and Columbus fees are together. Given the number of issues involved, she could not provide any recommendation on this. Mr. Keenan added that this exploring the option of a Dublin water system would have been more feasible in the mid 1980s. At this juncture, with all of the investments in water towers and infrastructure, it would be very complicated. Ms. Grigsby clarified that Dublin owns the water lines, but Columbus is responsible for maintenance of the lines. There would be many engineering issues to be considered to determine if there is any feasibility to this option. Mr. Reiner noted that the 30 percent surcharge is outrageous and relieving the citizens of this burden would be a great step forward. Mr. Gerber stated that, whether or not having a city system is possible, he would like to understand why there is a 30 percent surcharge for suburban users and what it is used for. There must be an economic basis for such a surcharge. Ms. Grigsby responded that the surcharge is essentially used to subsidize the operations of the Columbus system. All of the suburbs who contract with the City of Columbus for the water pay the 30 percent surcharge. The 30 percent surcharge paid by residents of the various communities helps to support the Columbus system. If the 30 percent surcharge were eliminated, the rates would increase for all of the users of the system. Mr. Keenan stated that his understanding is that the contract includes a provision calling for periodic review. Ms. Grigsby responded that there is language about a review every five years. In 2010, the agreement was modified to incorporate the 277 acres by the Post interchange. Discussions can be initiated at any time regarding amendments. Vice Mayor Salay added that Columbus is currently developing upground reservoirs to serve the community as it grows. This probably accounts for some of the 30 percent surcharge as well. Ms. Grigsby stated that Columbus does all of the billing and collections for the water system and they handle all of the required mandates. There are many issues involved in operating the treatment facility for both water and sewer and Columbus does have the burden of responsibility for this and not the suburbs. Mr. Reiner continued: 2. He congratulated Ms. Mumma and the Finance team for their financial reporting award. He is very pleased that the Finance Department has consistently have achieved this award. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Miztgs of _Dublin City_ Council Meeting January 14, 2013 Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher commented: 1. The City's "snow warriors" did an excellent job. It seems that most of the complaints related to the courts and cul de sacs, which are a lower priority in the established tier for snow removal. To have 44 complaints from the entire City is a very low number. The staff should be commended for the outstanding work they have done. 2. Noted that she will not be attending the OML Legislative Luncheon, although she serves on the Board. She encouraged anyone available to attend the legislative luncheon on February 6. 3. A music /noise issue was raised tonight regarding the proposed Daimler development project. The City has wonderful music and entertainment in the Historic Dublin area, and this is a draw for patrons, particularly in the warmer weather. The DCVB has promoted more outside Irish activities throughout the District. In view of the plan to build more residential development in the Historic Dublin area, there is a need to ensure from the outset that the developers understand there will be music and sound emanating throughout the District, and that the building plans may need to be adjusted to accommodate it. Outdoor patios have been requested in many areas of the City. She believes that, even in the Perimeter area, there is a desire for music and entertainment, although this is not permitted. Where there is interest in having outdoor venues, there is a similar interest in outdoor entertainment. Ms. Grigsby responded that with urban development, it is understood there will be more activity and therefore more noise in the area. The majority of people who will move to the Bridge Street District and the existing Historic District will understand and should be aware of the plans for this to be an active area with these types of activities adjacent to their homes. The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 p.m. BROWN, IN ill ' �i Clerk of Council