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HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-13-15 Council MinutesRECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting LEGAL BLANK., INC., FORM NO. 10148 April 13, 2015 Held 20_ CALL TO ORDER Mayor Keenan called the Monday, April 13, 2015 Regular Meeting of Dublin City Council to order at 6:00 p.m. at the Dublin Municipal Building. ROLL CALL Members present were Mayor Keenan, Vice Mayor Gerber, Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, Mr. Lecklider, Mr. Peterson, Mr. Reiner and Ms. Salay. Staff members present were Mr. McDaniel, Mr. Smith, Mr. Foegler, Ms. Mumma, Chief von Eckartsberg, Ms. Crandall, Ms. O'Callaghan, Mr. Hahn, Ms. Puskarcik, Mr. Earman, Mr. Langworthy, Mr. Hammersmith, Ms. Rauch and Mr. Kridler. Also present was Mr. Daniels of Squires Patton Boggs. ADJOURNMENT TO EXECUTIVE SESSION Mayor Keenan moved to adjourn to executive session to discuss the purchase of property for public purposes, conferences with an attorney for the public body concerning disputes involving the public body that are the subject of pending or imminent court action, and personnel matters related to the appointment of a public official. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher seconded the motion. Vote on the motion: Mr. Lecklider, yes; Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, Mr. Peterson, yes; Vice Mayor Gerber, yes; Mayor Keenan, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; and Ms. Salay, yes. The meeting was reconvened at 6:30 p.m. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher led the Pledge of Allegiance. PUBLIC HEARING • Proposed Tax Increment Financing Incentive District — Ohio Revised Code Section 5709.40(C) Ms. Mumma presented an overview. On March 23, she provided Council with an informational presentation regarding TIFs created under Section 5709.40(C) of the Ohio Revised Code. That particular section addresses TIFs on residential property, also referred to as incentive districts, which is the subject of this public hearing. She noted that developer Crawford Hoying and the City are proposing the use of a 40(C) TIF within the Bridge Park development. This will allow improvements within the residential parcels to be considered a public purpose and exempt from taxation, but in its place, have a service charge levied or payment in lieu of taxes, which would be used to finance public improvements. The Crawford Hoying Bridge Park development currently has approximately 111 owner - occupied units proposed -- 41 units on the west side of the river and 70 units on the east side of the river. The process to establish an incentive district under 5709.40 (C) includes notification to the property owners. Those notifications were sent via first -class mail on March 12, 2015 to COTA, Crawford Hoying and the City of Dublin, as the property owners within the proposed district. The public hearing, which is being held this evening, is the next step in the process. After the public hearing, staff will bring forward for Council consideration an ordinance that will create the incentive district. Currently, there are ongoing negotiations with Franklin County to come to an agreement with respect to revenue sharing, as required under Code. The proposal for this tax increment financing incentive district is over the entire Bridge Park development site. While it will only apply to owner - occupied residential facilities, it does preserve the ability that at some future point in time, the developer could convert any apartments or multi- family commercial units to owner - occupied residential. Any such change would be subject to provisions that would be negotiated within a development agreement. After the public hearing tonight, staff will continue negotiations with the Franklin County Commissioners. Staff anticipates bringing forward a TIF ordinance for not only this RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council Meeting DAYTON LEGAL BLANK, INC., FORM NO 10148 April 13, 2015 Page 2 of Held 20 incentive district but also a regular TIF district for first reading on May 4 with a second reading on May 18. These are estimated dates at this point in time. Mayor Keenan invited public testimony. Chris Amorose Groomes, 5896 Leven Links Ct., stated that if past performance is the best indicator for future behavior, one should take a look at some of the development around Columbus that is as trendy as the one being contemplated in this TIF. The City Center Mall opened in 1989 at a cost of $110 million to full tenants and fanfare — that was its best day. Twenty years later in 2009, the owners of the mall gave the development back to the City of Columbus free of charge. The "catch" was it would cost taxpayers $10 million to tear it down. The total loss in value over those 20 years was $120 million. The reason given for its failure was the construction of new malls closer to the suburbs and rising crime in the downtown area. The Continent opened in 1972 and was largely torn down in 1990 with similar investment loss. A few struggling businesses and apartments remain on the property today. The residential rents began at approximately the same level as those being proposed in the development contemplated this evening. The reason given for the failure of The Continent were high rents and traffic problems. Closer to home, Terrazza at Corazon had predicted valuations nearly 400% higher than current market value, resulting in a nearly $7.2 million judgment against the developer. The reason given for its failure was the failure of the neighboring development, Corazon. Tonight, the City of Dublin is contemplating a 30 -year straight TIF that will raise no incremental value funds to the school system, fire and EMS services, and the 10 other entities funded by property taxes. The difference between this TIF and the ones that have been used successfully in the past is that this TIF is being used to bring more apartment housing to the City of Dublin — housing that the City of Dublin's Tax Administration calls a revenue loser. The land it sits on will only generate a little over $160,000 /year for the school district. At today's cost, that will only educate 12 students. That education cost will almost certainly increase 200- 500 percent over the next 30 years. Yet the funding will remain largely flat. The developer projects a mere 20 -30 children living in this 800 -unit apartment complex. While she does not agree that only 2.5% of all 800 one, two and three - bedroom apartments will generate one child, the result will undoubtedly be students attending Dublin Schools with no funding to pay for their education; residents in need of fire and EMS care with no funding to provide it; and other social service agencies without funding to serve the population. The choice is very clear to the residents of Dublin, should City Council proceed with its recent pattern of allowing this trendy development, using the Schools, the Township and other entity funds to construct a poor quality version of the trendy apartment boom. The choice to be made is to have a reduction in the quality of the schools, fire and EMS response time and other services, or to pay more in taxes. Muirfield Village, the City's first real residential development used no TIF dollars to fund its development — the development was entirely funded by the developer. In the early 1970s, developer Howard Adams was advocating for the development to the Village of Dublin's leaders. He indicated there would be no children in Muir field Village because the houses wouuld be so expensive that families would not be able to afford to live in them. The average home in Muirfleld is now 30 years old. Imagine if Dublin Schools had no funding generated by that development to pay for all the students that have been educated over the past 30 years. She requests that Council not use this kind of TIF to promote this kind of development on this kind of real estate in Dublin — this real estate is some of the best the City has on its riverfront. The citizens will ultimately have to pay for the unintended consequences. Mayor Keenan pointed out that comparing the Bridge Street development to the City Center Mall and The Continent is really comparing apples to oranges. There are many good reasons for pursuing this project, which Council has been reviewing for the past four -five years. In regard to the Schools, payments of $50 million will be made to the Schools over the 30 -year period -- $1.5 million /year. He invited staff to comment. Ms. Mumma clarified that the City's compensation agreement with the School District does not call for a straight TIF for a 30 -year period. Instead, in years one through 15 of any TIF created, the City would capture 100 percent of that. In years 16 through 30, the Schools RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes of Dublin City Council LEGAL BLANK, INC., FORM NO. 1014B Held — April 13 Meeting 20 capture ten percent of what they would have received had the exemption not been put in place. That is regardless of whether it is a CRA or a TIF, because both are exemptions. This is in addition to the $1.5 million annually paid to the School District, which will total $50 million. Mr. Lecklider stated that his understanding is that the property in question with respect to the Crawford Hoying proposal is currently generating $400,000 /year in property tax revenue to the Schools. Ms. Mumma responded that it is estimated as generating between $350 - $400,000 for the property owned by Crawford Hoying at this time. There are some additional parcels that the City owns that are generating revenue, but that is only because the exemptions have not come through, based on the City's ownership. In order for the School District to receive $1.5 million in revenue in any given year, based on today's commercial tax rates, it necessitates approximately $65 million in new valuation being created. Mayor Keenan stated that the vast majority of TIFs used in Dublin have proven to be of great benefit to all the entities - the School District, the Township and the City, over many years. Denise Franz King Chair, Washington Township Board of Trustees, presented a letter from the Board to Council and read it into the record. They have great faith that Dublin will honor their longstanding relationship and find a solution to the issues raised. She appreciates the opportunity to testify, as Council considers the pros and cons of implementing a new type of tax increment financing district (TIF), utilizing a Community Reinvestment Area (CRA), and moving forward with the Bridge Park New Community Authority. The Township understands that the City's motivation is to entice private development and finance capital improvements within the boundaries of the City of Dublin and Washington Township, since the boundaries of the City and Washington Township are largely co- terminous. The entities have a long history of collaborating for the best outcomes for our community. The letter intends to convey the Trustees' desire to continue to build on this foundation of trust and reciprocity for the benefit of the 43,000 citizens the City and Township share. For decades, the Township has served as Dublin's primary fire and EMS service provider. In this role, the Township has responded to Dublin's fast -paced growth by ensuring that residents and corporate partners receive the high quality emergency services that they desire. Last year, these services included answering nearly 5,000 emergency calls, one for every 17 residents and businesses within the community, and inspecting over 2,000 businesses for fire code compliance. The Township also supports the City by reviewing building and site plans, a function critical to fire and life safety. They also deliver safety education programs to Dublin's businesses, residents and schools. These services help protect over $5.6 billion in appraised real estate, utility and personal property assets, and an undeterminable value in human life. Currently, the Township delivers all of its Fire services at a cost of $412 /resident per year. The City's desire to utilize economic development incentives that impact the property tax distribution is a significant concern to the Township. Development such as the one proposed with the ORC 5709.40(C) TIF, Community Reinvestment Area and the New Community Authority will demand more fire service, EMS and safety service than the development patterns assigned to that land today. The new pattern of land use will not cover these increased service demands for at least 30 years. In 2014, the City reported that the total assessed valuation for the City's TIF districts in Franklin County was $489 million. That valuation is exempt from the Township's property taxes. That is a total of 22 percent of the Township's Franklin County tax base - more than the Township had expected. Further, the use of a Community Reinvestment Area with a TIF strips the Township from receiving any revenue from the commercial building owners or individuals who will be residing within the CRA for up to 15 years. With these future residents and corporations relieved of their share of the cost of emergency services, the cost burden will shift to the remaining property tax - paying residents and businesses. The City's aggressive approach to funding public infrastructure with property tax exemptions is not without consequences to the community. At a time when the City seeks growth, the Township is attempting to plan Page 3 of 17 RECORD OFEDINGS Minutes of _ Dublin ity ounce FOCF� Meeting. DAYTON LEGAL BLANK, ING„ FQRM NO. 10148 April 1 2015 Held Page 4 of - 17 20 diligently to live within the resources approved by voters. If growth occurs without a way to capture revenue from the growth, the Township will have to employ one or both of the following options: (1) reduce the level of services and increase emergency response times; (2) seek voter approval for a tax increase and /or institute a fee for services. Another key concern to the Township is a change in State law in 2013, which removes the State funding for property tax rollbacks under certain scenarios. Property tax owners who enjoy these rollback provisions — as much 12.5 %, will again become liable for those payments, if the Township needs to pursue a replacement or increased millage in a levy. The levy five -year cycle is up again this November. Under these scenarios, the Township does not necessarily experience significant gains in revenue. Rather, the State funding match is lost under that new law, and the property owner accepts the 12.5% increased tax burden. This shift in tax burden would be approximately $40 for every $100 (note: later corrected to $40 for every $100,000 of market value for a property. The average property value in Dublin is approximately $300,000. The City's continued used of property tax exemptions increases the likelihood that the Township will have to increase the millage for Fire and EMS services to maintain them at the same level. While the City has the ability to offset expenses with other revenues, notably its income tax, the Township has no recourse. The Fire Department operates on its temporary five -year level. Their request is simple. As community partners, they ask that the City communicate with the Township regarding the City's desires and goals for the use of property tax exemptions. They also ask that the City recognize and remedy the negative impacts of redirecting the Fire Department's property tax funding for development. Mayor Keenan stated that when he began service as a Washington Township trustee in 1983, their budget was approximately $300,000. Today, the Township budget is well into the $24 million range. Dublin has always utilized tax increment financing and, in large part, the growth of Dublin is due to those mechanisms. The Township has benefited immensely over the years. City Council will review this, similar to the New Community Authority issue related to Tartan West. City Council will take the Trustees' letter under advisement. Mr. Lecklider inquired about the Township's current annual revenues versus expenditures. Ms. King responded that the annual expenditures for the Fire Department are approximately $21 million. The Township is in the process of divesting itself of the Parks Department in order to concentrate on the main services of Fire and EMS. The Parks Department budget is $600,000. The remaining balance is being used to prolong the levy, so that the voters do not have to be asked for as much as soon. Mayor Keenan inquired about the total budget for the Township. Ms. King responded that the total annual budget is approximately $24 -25 million. Mr. Lecklider asked for the total revenue figures. Ms. King asked Washington Township Administrator Ott to respond. Ms. Ott stated that she would provide 2014 actual numbers. Fire Fund revenues were $20.124 million; expenditures were $20.037 million. She has heard reference to the fund balance for the Township. The intent is to spend down that fund balance and put it to use in lieu of having to ask for an increase in the levy. Diligent spending will allow that to happen, but the unknown factor is what will occur with additional tax exemptions in the community. The Township would like to work with the City to identify a positive resolution. Mayor Keenan inquired the total revenue amount for the Township. Ms. Ott responded that she does not have those figures that include the miscellaneous small funds -- Roads and Bridges. Total revenue last year was $22 to $22.5 million. Mayor Keenan inquired if that includes inside millage in the General Fund. Ms. Ott responded that it does. The General Fund and Fire Fund are $22.5 million. Mr. Lecklider asked, to the extent that this contributes to the overall health of the local economy -- if the increase in non - exempt properties could be significant over time. The REC0RD 2]� F Minutes of u Im it ounce _ Meeting DAYTON LEGAL BLANK, INC., FORM NO. 10148 Held April 1 - 2015 Page 5 of 17 NMI Mayor made reference to the many TIFs the City has had in place over the years, and the significant increase in Township revenues over that same period of time. Ms. Ott responded that the Township's current valuation just recently matched prior 2008 valuations, with just over $2 billion for taxable valuation for the Township. If the City would like to work with the Township to identify what the number is, the Township would be very open to that. Is there some attributable factor? Yes. At some point, however, there is a saturation point when 22 percent of an entity's tax base is not contributing because their funds are being redirected into the pilot payments in lieu of that property tax. The Township's concern is that if the trend continues, that point of 22 percent will climb, shifting the tax burden to the rest of the property owners within the Township's jurisdiction. Mayor Keenan stated that the City's concern is maintaining the health of the current corporate citizens who pay a large share of the tax. To that end, the consultants have indicated that the City needs this kind of development to have the work force that will serve those tech and bioscience businesses that want to locate to Dublin. It is a broader picture than just one development. It is an overall strategy that Council is employing. Ms. Ott responded that the Township is not opposed to growth. Instead, they are asking for dialogue and support in remedying the revenue issue that accompanies the service demands that the Township will have due to that growth. Mayor Keenan inquired what the current fund balance is for the Township. Ms. Ott responded that the 2014 year -end Fire Fund balance was $19 million. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher stated that, currently, the ORC reads that Fire Departments are exempt from TIFS, unless otherwise identified. Ms. Ott responded that Townships are not afforded the same protection as County agencies or School districts under the TIF law. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher stated that there is now legislation proposed to correct that problem. Ms. Ott responded that is correct. The Ohio Township Association has been advocating for about eight years for a change to the statute to address that issue. Mayor Keenan stated that the Township's letter will serve as a beginning of some dialogue on this issue. Mr. McDaniel thanked the Washington Township trustees and Ms. Ott for reaching out and asking staff to attend their meetings recently. That has not yet occurred because he wants to have the correct numbers in hand. The proposed development needs to be a little more mature in terms of its concepts to avoid discussing incorrect numbers. He acknowledged their invitation and City staff will definitely attend soon with the needed information. He also pointed out that Ms. King had mentioned $40 for every $100 of market value property. It is $40 for every $100,000 — he wants the record to be correct. To make Council aware of how the numbers are looking at this time, the total value of property within the Bridge Street District is approximately $321 million. The estimated revenues that will be generated for the Township are $1.2 million per year, approximately six percent of its total revenue. The Crawford Hoying parcels under consideration currently generate about $78,000 per year to the Township. If the proposed improvements occur, it could generate as much as $800,000 per year to the Township. However, that would not be realized for a few years, and there could be service demands in the interim. Staff recognizes that and will work with the Township relative to those potential increases in service demands. However, these kinds of tools are critical to consider when discussing redevelopment. Previously, the City of Dublin has not leveraged these kinds of economic development tools with opportunities for redevelopment, because those opportunities have not existed. As the City's Economic Development Director for ten years, he was unable to achieve any movement on this property until the Bridge Street District was created. He was surprised that the Dublin Village Center was not mentioned as an example of failure, as it has experienced declining property values for the past RECORD OF QI�OC�EDINGS Minutes of Dublin City ounce Meeting April 13, 2015 Page 6 7 II Held 20 decades. These issues need to be addressed relative to bringing value that does ultimately help schools, townships and others to collect revenue in the future. Ms. Salay stated that the total Bridge Street District currently generates $321 million in tax revenue, with $1.2 million going to the Township. The part under consideration tonight brings $78,000 in revenues to the Township at this point versus potentially $800,000 in the future,— should the development occur. Mr. McDaniel responded that the Township's point is that with the proposed TIF, they will not realize that revenue for a number of years. However, that level of revenue is what could potentially be generated in the future. Ms. Salay stated that the central question is if the community is going to grow and change or not. In order to remain healthy and viable, a community must grow and change. The issue is how is it going to do that? The City can redevelop or grow out. The City is choosing to redevelop what exists — Dublin Village Center and Bridge Pointe Shopping Center. Five to six years ago, Council began to consider carefully the future of Dublin and what was needed to keep the City as economically sound going forward as it has been in the past. The five years of study has brought the City to this point tonight. It is frustrating, however, when there is an insinuation that Council is not being fiscally responsible.. That could not be further from the truth. Mayor Keenan stated that he was recently visiting with a friend in Knoxville who had traveled to Greenville, SC — the community Council visited several years ago to view their redevelopment. He shared that Greenville is vibrant with an incredible downtown. Dublin is trying to achieve something similar with Bridge Street. Mayor Keenan closed the public hearing. He acknowledged Trustee Bostic and Chief O'Connell who were in the audience as well. PROCLAMATION /SPECIAL RECOGNITION National Volunteer Week — April 12 -18 Mayor Keenan presented a proclamation in honor of National Volunteer Week to David Frissora, Director of Government Relations and Corporate Affairs, The Wendy's Company. The Wendy's Company has been an instrumental volunteer group over the years for the Dublin community. In 2014, associates volunteered in the City's parks system with a large beautification planting at Avery Park. In the fall, they dispersed to all 56 parks for "A Walk in the Park," where they provided live web -based feedback on park conditions and maintenance. Wendy's will once again be conducting a parks project in May of 2015. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS • National Citizen Survey — Martin Saperstein, Saperstein & Associates Martin Saperstein, Saperstein & Associates presented the results of the National Citizen Survey (NCS) and a recap of the findings regarding the Bridge Street District from several forums and surveys. The National Citizen Survey was conducted by the National Research Center. The Bridge Street District section contains some data that his firm collected and also comes from the custom questions from the NCS. He shared results for the community in total, but noted that the results are also available by ward. Approximately 2,000 Dublin households received questionnaires via mail in the first week of January. The questionnaires contained more than 130 individual questions. By mid - February, 780 questionnaires had been returned — a response rate of 40 %. For a mail survey, that is a good response rate. Part of the response rate is due to the high interest nature of the survey. The NCS is structured on three pillars: (1) Community Characteristics - what makes a community livable, attractive, and a place people want to be. (2) Governance — how well does the City government meet the needs and expectations of its residents (Police, Fire, snow removal, garbage collection). (3) Participation — are the residents of Dublin connected to the community and each other. The results of the survey are compared with NCS 82 benchmark districts across the country. RECORQ ff QR EDINGS Minutes of u lin City ounce Meeting Held April 13, 2015 Page 7 of 17 20 In Community Characteristics and Governance, overall, City of Dublin scores are higher than those of the benchmark communities. In Participation, it is similar to the benchmark communities. The average rating in the first two categories was at least 90 %. Ninety -eight percent of the respondents indicated that Dublin was an excellent or good place to live. In those areas of their survey, Dublin ranks first in the country — from overall appearance to employment opportunities. The findings remained similar to those in the survey done three years ago. For future improvement efforts: 1. Although still positive, the five lowest ratings in Community Characteristics are traffic flow, affordable quality housing, public parking, cost of living, ease of travel by public transportation. 2. Five lowest ratings in Governance are land use, street lighting, traffic signal timing, cable N, bus or transit services For the Bridge Street District, there were four data sources: the 2013 Community Attitude Survey (conducted by Saperstein & Associates); the 2013 Community Forum (held at OCLQ the Communications Advisory Committee (established January 2015); and custom questions added by Saperstein to the NCS standard questions. 2013 Community Attitude Survey More than 400 voters were interviewed. The survey has listed nine community initiatives, which respondents were asked to prioritize. For a plurality of residents, improving the traffic flow was the top priority, followed by implementing the Bridge Street District. In the area of "familiarity," over half the respondents indicated they were very or somewhat familiar with plans for the Bridge Street District. Residents were queried specifically about four components in the District: more parkland along the river, more civic activity areas, expanding the downtown area east of the Scioto River along Riverside Drive and more housing options within walking distance to the District amenities. The first two components rated higher /stronger interest. 2013 Community Forum — Approximately 200 people attended the forum, although they probably were not representative of the community as a whole. They were likely those with a vested interest and very much in favor of the plans or very much opposed to them. There were three presentations: Infrastructure /parks, Bridge Park and North Riverview project. Guests each had a handheld device and were asked to respond to questions. Most of the guests were very enthusiastic about the Bridge Street District. (1) Infrastructure /parks - six percent were not enthusiastic; everyone else fell within a middle category. Guests were also asked if the concepts shown reflected the goals for the District, and 91% responded affirmatively. (2) Bridge Park — three of four attendees indicated the concept was consistent with the District goals. Six out of seven respondents indicated they would be likely to use new restaurants in the District. (3) North Riverview — 77% indicated the concept was consistent with perceived District goals. At the conclusion of the forum, more than two- thirds of the attendees indicated they were very enthusiastic about the District. Communications Advisory Committee — this was a group discussion. Although everyone was aware of the District, very few could articulate any portion of the vision or describe any of the elements; information about the District was minimal. It also became apparent that the members considered the transportation projects and the Bridge Street District to be intertwined. Mr. McDaniel noted that this committee's focus is communicating about the effects of the major projects that are taking place in the community. They are being used as a sounding board to help staff with communication efforts. RECOR[]F �'FOCEDINGS Minutes of u lm City ounce DAYTON LEGAL BLANK, INC., FO NO. 10148 - -- - " --- -- Aprii 13, 2015 Pape 17 - - Held 20 r� Meetin ____ Mr. Saperstein stated that, originally, the focus of this committee was to be communications regarding transportation. However, they did not separate the transportation projects from the Bridge Street District issue, so it seemed that, in regard to communications to the community, this committee should address both. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher stated that, originally, Council believed that this group would address the need for communication regarding transportation changes occurring temporarily or permanently. However, it became clear that their interest was more about how the City would communicate these changes to the public, so that their businesses would not suffer. Mr. Saperstein stated that civic associations, the Schools, some small businesses, and some community members serve on this committee. At the end of the day, it seemed that these committee members were as interested in sharing opinions about transportation as they were about the Bridge Street District. Mayor Keenan stated that the members tend to be focused on the short-term impact of the traffic flow during the roundabout project. Mr. Saperstein stated that because they were so focused on the short-term impact, it blinded them to some extent regarding the long -term benefits. They fear the barriers in the short-term. The Committee reported that Historic Dublin business owners view the approaching wave of development as an existential threat. They are concerned about traffic, detours and construction that will drive away customers permanently, because there will then be new places to shop and dine once the Bridge Street District develops. Mayor Keenan stated that restaurants and retail businesses also indicate that they are more successful when similar businesses are co- located. The more that exist in a given area, the better they all do. Mr. Saperstein stated that he is simply reporting what the Committee indicated. The appropriate message should be communicated to the businesses to provide ease of mind in the short-term. Regardless of all their concerns, the committee members' impressions of the Bridge Street District were still positive. They saw it as ultimately good for the community, even though in the short-term, they might suffer. The members want the City to be proactive in communicating, especially the information that might help to mitigate short-term impacts. They recognized that there is information on the website, but they want the information pushed out to them. National Citizen Survey Custom Questions (1) Bridge Street District familiarity and impression - Three out of four respondents considered themselves very or somewhat familiar with the Bridge Street District. Seven out of 10 residents have favorable impressions of the Bridge Street District. Only 14 %, one in 25, had a very unfavorable impression. Of the residents who were very familiar with the District, 46% had a very favorable impression. Of those less familiar with the District, only 19% had favorable impressions. That suggests that as the City continues to share information with them, more will move into a more favorable impression. Only one in three respondents claimed that the City provides too little information about the Bridge Street District. This parallels with the Committee's recommendation for more information. (2) Plans for the Bridge Street District — Plans were becoming a reality at an appropriate pace. Thirty-six percent indicated an appropriate pace; 14% indicated too quickly; 14% indicated not quickly enough. (3) Opportunities for Citizen Participation — An equal percentage of residents believe that the City provides adequate opportunities for participation versus inadequate opportunities. (4) Potential benefits of the Bridge Street District — Responses were evaluated. Restaurants, shops and a walkable community are what residents are anticipating. (5) Concerns about the Bridge Street District — The greatest concern was traffic. RECORC ?F t F�OCFEDINGS Minutes of u lin City ounce Meeting D AYTON LEGAL BLANK. INC., FORM NO . 10148 April 13 2015 . Page 9 of 17 T 20 The Takeaways (1) Familiarity with the Bridge Street District has increased substantially since 2013. (2) Seven of 10 residents have favorable impressions; one of seven has unfavorable. Residents familiar with the District are more likely to view it favorably. (3) Most residents believe plans for the District are becoming a reality at an appropriate pace. (4) Equal numbers believe the City is providing adequate opportunities for citizen participation versus inadequate. (5) Most residents believe the City is providing too little information. The City should provide information proactively. Mayor Keenan thanked Mr. Saperstein, noting that Council appreciates all of his insight and work. Mr. McDaniel stated that staff would review the overall results of the National Citizen Survey and the areas of the greatest concerns and offer suggestions. Council has tasked staff with reviewing the City's strategic focus areas and goals, so staff will keep that under consideration. He acknowledged one of the key points — a need for more communication, noting that the City is working to rectify that with key information points, revisiting the Bridge Street District website, and providing the data in an easy to understand format. • ODOT Northwest 270/33 Interchange Project Communications — Nancy Burton, ODOT District 6 Public Information Officer Nancy Burton, ODOT District 6 Public Information Officer stated that in one year, ODOT received 1,735 email requests for information about this project. Both ODOT and the City of Dublin websites inform residents that they may submit their emails to ODOT for project updates. This information enables citizens to be aware of road closures or restrictions before leaving home. ODOT has also met with every emergency responder that has jurisdiction in the US33 project area — townships, cities of Dublin, Hilliard and Marysville, Sheriff, Ohio State Patrol and the Police Department and provided them with information and contacts. There are contact numbers that are available 24 hours, 7 days /week due to the impact of this project on the community and on the corridor. They also met with the PTO of Sells Middle School at their request. Sells Middle School is located between these two major transportation projects. They were provided direct contacts as well. In collaboration with the City's Community Relations office, the information campaign kickoff for this project began before the 2014 Memorial Tournament. Branding was developed that is included with every information piece released, because it is synonymous with the project. She is confident that their joint communication efforts with the City of Dublin communication team will effectively provide information to the public. Preliminary dirt removal for the project has been initiated, but the project begins on June 8, immediately following the Memorial Tournament. A portion of US33 east will be closed for four months. Mayor Keenan stated that Council is confident in ODOT and the City communication team's efforts to inform the public. He receives the email updates and forwards them immediately to employees in his office. He is certain that ODOT encourages other business owners and corporations to do the same. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher thanked Ms. Burton for providing excellent services. She believes the local television stations have also been doing a good job of providing the information that Ms. Burton shares with them. Mr. McDaniel thanked ODOT District 6 for the great partnership Dublin enjoys with them. Mayor Keenan thanked Ms. Puskarcik for her hard work on this issue. CONSENT AGENDA Mr. Lecklider moved approval of the four items on the Consent Agenda. Mr. Reiner seconded the motion. Vote on the motion: Ms. Salay, yes; Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, yes; Mr. Lecklider, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Mayor Keenan, yes; Mr. Peterson, yes; Vice Mayor Gerber, yes. RECORD ?3F QI OC EDINGS u lin City ounce Minutes of Meeting . DAYTON LEGAL BLANK, INC.. FORM NO. 10148 April 13, 2015 Page - 10 of 17 field 2,0 1. Approval of Minutes of Special Meeting of March 19, 2015 2. Approval of Minutes of Regular Meeting of March 23, 2015 3. Ordinance 28 -15 (Introduction /first reading) Authorizing the City Manager to Execute Necessary Conveyance Documents to Acquire a 0.049 Acre, More or Less, Permanent Easement and a 0.023 Acre, More or Less, Temporary Easement from Noman I. Malik and Josephine Samina Malik for the Property Located at 8640 Hyland -Croy Road for the Construction of a Shared - Use Path Connection. (Second reading /public hearing April 27 Council meeting) 4. Resolution 33 -15 (Introduction /vote) Accepting the Lowest and Best Bid for Coffman Park Expansion Phase 2A. INTRODUCTION/ FIRST READING — ORDINANCES Ordinance 27 -15 Rezoning Approximately 3.5 +/- Acres Located at the East side of Tuller Ridge Drive between Tuller Drive and Rush Street from BSD Public District to BSD Residential District. (Sycamore Ridge Park) (Case 15 -011Z) (Second reading /public hearing April 27 Council meeting) Ms. Salay introduced the ordinance. Ms. Rauch stated that this 3.5 acre site is a City -owned parcel located on the east side of Tuller Ridge Drive. It is currently an undeveloped parcel and a passive park that was dedicated as part of the Sycamore Ridge apartment development. This parcel was part of a land swap that was approved in the development agreement as part of the future Tuller Flats development. In order for that to move forward, this site needed to be rezoned. The site is currently shown as Bridge Street Public, which was in order to recognize the existing park and provide an opportunity for a future greenway connection along the future John Shields Parkway. The proposed rezoning is to the Bridge Street District Residential category, which is comparable to what is surrounding on the north, east and south of this parcel. Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed this at their March 12 meeting and recommended approval to City Council. Mr. Lecklider asked Ms. Salay if she has other information to offer from hearing this case at the Commission. Ms. Salay responded there is nothing further to report. There will be a second reading /public hearing at the April 27 Council meeting. INTRODUCTION /PUBLIC HEARING /VOTE - RESOLUTIONS Resolution 34 -15 Accepting the Lowest and Best Bid for the SR161 /Riverside Drive Roundabout (Part 1), Riverside Drive Realignment (Part 2), and Other Public Improvements Project Ms. Salay introduced the resolution. Ms. O'Callaghan stated that the City consolidated several improvements into one bid package, which will advance multiple improvements in an efficient and cost effective manner. The improvements included in the bid package are the State Route 161 /Riverside Drive intersection improvement; the realignment of Riverside Drive; sanitary sewer installation; park grading for the future park between Riverside Drive and the riverfront; a piece of John Shields Parkway from Riverside Drive to Mooney Street; and utility installation and burial for both AEP and duct bank. Three bids were submitted, with the lowest being 10 percent under estimate. Staff recommends Council approval of the Resolution, accepting as lowest and best the bid of Complete General Construction, and authorizing the City Manager to enter into contract with Complete General. The memo includes additional details on this project. Mr. Reiner stated that he was impressed and surprised with the lower than estimate bid. Ms. O'Callaghan responded that staff, too, was pleased and believes that packaging all of the improvements into one bid package helped with savings. In addition, the contractor RECORC ?F�F�OCfEDINGS Minutes of __ u lin ity ounce Meeting L EGAL BLANK, INC , FORM NO. 10148 -IF - - April 13, 2015 Page 11 of 17 20 who was the low bidder on this project also has the US 33/270 Interchange contract, which will allow some sharing of resources between the two projects. Ms. Salay complimented staff on their initiative in packaging the bid in this way, which makes sense and results in efficiencies. Mr. Lecklider pointed out that in the memo, it clearly indicates that the safety concerns with respect to this intersection arose in 1993 — two decades ago. Much later, but still prior to any consideration of the Bridge Street District and Bridge Park development in the 2005 -2007 timeframe, the memo indicates that the City analyzed several intersection improvement alternatives. He wanted to reiterate that this intersection was planned for improvement long before any consideration of any development within the Bridge Street District. A great deal of pressure on this intersection comes from outside of Dublin — including development in southern Delaware County that uses Riverside Drive to traverse south. Mayor Keenan added that one of the highest priorities identified by residents is opening up the riverfront in order to use that amenity, and that will come about as a result of the road realignment. Mr. Lecklider added that this improvement is being done for safety concerns as well, noting that the intersection is the fourth highest in traffic volume and third highest crash location in the City. Mr. Reiner added that there are parks located all along the riverfront on Riverside Drive. This is the first opportunity that Dublin has had to create a park along the river in our jurisdiction and will be a great amenity for the citizens. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher suggested that educational efforts be provided regarding the roundabout, as not every community in Central Ohio has the number of roundabouts as Dublin does. The original educational process about traversing roundabouts should be reinstituted for the general public. Ms. Salay noted that some have asked her about pedestrians crossing this roundabout. Would it be possible to have information on the website about pedestrian use of the roundabout? Ms. O'Callaghan responded that staff will do this. With the roundabout option selected, the pedestrian only has to cross one direction of traffic at a time. That is an added safety benefit. Vote on the Resolution: Vice Mayor Gerber, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Ms. Salay, yes; Mr. Lecklider, yes; Mr. Peterson, yes; Mayor Keenan, yes; Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, yes. Resolution 35 -15 Appointing Members to the Architectural Review Board of the City of Dublin. Vice Mayor Gerber introduced the resolution. Vice Mayor Gerber, Administrative Committee Chair reported that the Committee of the Whole met and has made the following recommendations: Everett Musser and Jane Fox appointed to three -year terms on the Architectural Review Board, such terms expiring on March 31, 2018. Vote on the Resolution: Mr. Lecklider, yes; Mayor Keenan, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Mr. Peterson, yes; Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, yes; Ms. Salay, yes; Vice Mayor Gerber, yes. Resolution 36 -15 Intent to Appropriate 5.120 Acres, more or less, Fee Simple Right -of -Way, of which 1.308 Acres are Located within Present Road Occupied; and a 0.387 Acre, more or less, Temporary Easement from BPAC% LLC and Tim Hortons as Lessee of the Property, for the Property Located at 6490 Riverside Drive, for the Construction of a Roundabout at the Intersection of State Route 161 and Riverside Drive and the Relocation of Riverside Drive to the East. Vice Mayor Gerber introduced the resolution. RECORD OF PTRCF-EDINGS Minutes of Dublin City ounce Meeting 77 DAYTON LEGAL BLANK, INC., FORM NO. 10148 leld 20 Mr. Smith stated that this legislation will allow the City to continue to move forward to obtain the land needed to build infrastructure. Staff will continue to work with the property owners to resolve the matter. Vote on the Resolution: Ms. Chinnici- Zuercher, yes; Mr. Reiner, yes; Mr. Peterson, yes; Mayor Keenan, yes; Vice Mayor Gerber, yes; Ms. Salay, yes; Mr. Lecklider, yes. OTHER • Community Reinvestment Area — Informational Presentation Ms. Mumma state that, since February, staff has brought forward several informational presentations regarding economic development tools. These presentations are being done in advance of anticipated development within the Bridge Street District. The presentations focused on tax increment financing as well as the New Community Authority. She noted that redevelopment is inherently more challenging than greenfield development — in part, because of the non - performing assets that often exist on this land and must address. Thus, redevelopment requires more incentives and tools to encourage the redevelopment to occur. The Community Reinvestment Area or CRA is an economic development tool that was established in 1977 and revised in 1994 in the Ohio Revised Code to encourage the development of new structures and revitalization of existing housing stock through use of an exemption on real property. They are frequently used in redevelopment because of the higher costs. The higher costs are a result of lost economic value of the existing structure and cost of demolishing those structures; infrastructure needs; and added costs of a dense, mixed -use nature of redevelopment projects. CRAB are governed under Ohio Revised Code Section 3735.65 through 70. The establishment of a CRA can be beneficial to the property owner as it provides real property tax exemptions for property owners who construct new buildings when agreements are in place and executed between the property owner and the local government. Therefore, property owners and /or developers can demonstrate to lenders a predictability and a reduction in their expenditures as a result of the savings on the tax exemption on the new construction. It makes redevelopment projects economically feasible — especially for redevelopment, because of the higher initial costs. Banks are increasingly recognizing this property tax savings in looking at their net operating income. Because they have higher net operating income as a result of the tax savings, they are able to leverage that with the debt they will obtain to facilitate the redevelopment. When used in conjunction with a New Community Authority, the CRA impact is that there is a real property tax exemption on new construction. When there is a New Community Authority in place, that Board imposes a community development charge on the properties within the NCA. A community development charge then proves to be a more predictable revenue stream that can be used to pay debt service and other NCA- eligible expenditures. The benefits to the City in creating a CRA are that it does provide an incentive to property owners to make meaningful investments in their property. Without that incentive, redevelopment is not likely to occur. The City has had two experiences with CRAB in the past: the Britton Parkway CRA established in 1994 and the Tuttle Crossing CRA established in 1989. While all of the economic development tools discussed through the informational sessions have been used in Dublin, CRAs have not been used to the extent as they have been in other communities. CRAs are governed through the Ohio Development Services agency, and so any CRA created and the agreements with the property owners must be filed and reported on annually with the Department of Development Services agency. There are currently 93 active CRA agreements within Franklin County, and 737 agreements statewide. In order to create a CRA, the local government must conduct a housing survey. This survey is one in which the housing facilities or structures of historical significance are located and new housing construction and repair of the existing facilities or structures is discouraged. Instead, the preference is to have new construction occur. The purpose of the housing survey is to: 1) ensure the selected geographical area that is to comprise the CRA meets the statutory requirements; and 2) inform Council, as the April 13, 2015 -- — Pagel 2 of -17 RECORD gF QF OC EDINGS Minutes of u in City ounce Meeting DAYTON LEGAL BLANK. INC FORM NO. 10748 I April 13, 2015 Page - 13 of 17 20 voting authority, of the composition and condition of the housing stock within the CRA so they have a context in making decisions regarding the CRA geographical area. City staff members are conducting a housing survey within the Bridge Street District and that will be completed within the next week. Once the housing survey is completed, legislation is brought forward to Council for consideration. That legislation accomplishes three things: 1) adopts the housing survey, which must identify at least two residential properties that are experiencing disinvestment. She noted that if the City modifies a CRA or establishes a new CRA, two additional houses must be identified that are experiencing this level of disinvestment. 2) defines the boundaries of the CRA. The City has had a request by more than one developer or property owner within the Bridge Street District to utilize the CRA. Based on the requirement to have at least two houses in the housing survey, staff will take this into consideration in recommending what the boundaries of this first CRA should be. 3) defines the incentive that can be provided within the boundaries of the CRA. That incentive can be up to 100 percent real property tax exemption for a period of time not to exceed 15 years, depending upon certain criteria. Staff is likely to recommend a 15 -year, 100 percent exemption on new construction of residential, commercial and retail structures. For residential, this means multi - family residential — not single - family housing, as single - family housing will not be facilitated within the Bridge Street District. She added that it is important to note that establishing a CRA does not give any property owner the right to the exemption. A separate detailed CRA agreement must be executed between the City and the property owner in order for the property owner to receive that incentive. That is the case for any commercial properties. Following passage of legislation by Council to create a CRA, the City must publish notice in a local newspaper once a week for two weeks after the CRA is established. After that time, the City must remit a petition to the Ohio Development Services agency in which they approve the establishment of the CRA. They have 30 days in which to take this action. After the State has approved it, any property owner, through negotiations with the City, could come forward to enter into an agreement with the City, subject to Council approval, in order to be granted the property tax exemption. In terms of impacts of these types of incentives on the School District, the use of the CRA is authorized under the Bridge Street District Cooperative Agreement that was entered into last April between the City of Dublin and Dublin City Schools. Therefore, there are no additional financial impacts to the School District and the CRA is no different from the creation of a TIF. In the area defined by the BSD Cooperative Agreement, the City has agreed to compensate the School District $1.5 million per year for 32 years, and then $2 million for a total of $50 million in exchange for the ability to set up these types of incentive districts. In years one through 15, the City would capture any TIF revenues generated; in years 16 through 30, whether a TIF or CRA, the School District would receive 10 percent of what they would have received had the exemption not been put into place. The CRA simply provides an additional financing tool that helps address the specific needs of a particular project. Regarding upcoming steps, staff plans to bring forward legislation on April 27 that would establish the CRA, with second reading estimated as May 4. At that point in time, Council will be asked to consider passing this legislation as an emergency — given that the Ohio Development Services Agency then has 30 days in order to approve the establishment of the CRA. This information can be discussed further at a later date. Once the CRA is approved by the Development Services Agency, future agreements between the City and the property owners would be brought forward to Council for consideration. She offered to respond to any questions. Ms. Chin nici-Zuercher asked when the geographic area of the CRA will be finalized. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Minutes o f Dublin City Cou ncil Held April 13, 2015 Page 14 of 17 20 Meeting Ms. Mumma responded that it will be brought forward as part of the first reading of the legislation, which is estimated to be April 27. Mayor Keenan asked if the CRA boundaries can be amended at a later date. Ms. Mumma responded that it is possible to expand the geographical area of the CRA, but any expansion requires identification of two additional houses that are in disrepair and where investment is not being made in them. This does make it somewhat challenging. Ms. Salay asked for clarification. Currently, all of the taxing entities receive a certain level of tax revenue. Regardless of what the City puts in place in terms of economic development tools, all of those entities continue to receive what revenue they are receiving today — with the exception of structures being torn down on a property, reducing the value. Ms. Mumma responded that is correct. Any property owner has the ability to demolish structures on their property. Therefore, if a TIF or CRA is put into place before a building is demolished and that sets the level of the revenue, the impact would be different in a case where the building is demolished and the incentive is then put on, reducing the base value. It is consistent with what would occur anywhere in the City — whether Bridge Street District or any other location. In the agreement with the School District, there was a measure in place that by 2016, $70 million in values needs to be created within BSD in order to keep the $1.5 million annual payments continuing. In the case of a TIF or CRA, even though it is a property tax exemption, that value still counts toward that $70 million. If the City establishes a CRA and $100 million is generated by it, that would count toward the threshold for purposes of continuing those payments to the Schools. STAFF COMMENTS Mr. McDaniel: 1. Reminded Council that the Spring Neighborhood Leadership meeting will be held on Thursday, April 23 from 6:30 -8:30 p.m. at LaScala. He noted that the agenda includes an input session for the new Scioto riverfront park at 6:30 p.m. He asked Council members to RSVP regarding their attendance at the meeting, adding that they are welcome to make any comments to open the meeting. The other agenda items include an update from Police and from Fire Prevention; solicitation regulations; digital media information; infrastructure improvements, specifically related to I- 270/33 and Riverside Drive roundabout and realignment; update re the Community Survey results as it relates to the Bridge Street District; and an update and overview of various BSD projects. 2. Reported that Citizen University is now well underway, and the program has been well received. The employees have also enjoyed interfacing with residents. 3. Noted that the New Community Authority members appointed by Council will have a briefing on Wednesday evening at 6 p.m. The briefing will include background information in preparation for their service on the NCA. Crawford Hoying has named their three appointees to the NCA: Matthew Starr, Crawford Hoying for a two -year term; Chris Wagner, Crawford Hoying for a one -year term; and Josiah Huber, DiPerna Advisors for a one -year term. 4. Announced that Saturday, April 18 is Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Ashland, Inc. He thanked Ashland for their ongoing cooperation in this program. 5. Reported that a summary of the Council retreat has been drafted and will be provided in the next Council packet. He asked that Council review the draft to ensure it is complete and reflective of the retreat outcomes. Council should contact staff if there is information to add to the summary. 6. Noted that at the retreat, Council suggested that he work on scheduling a joint meeting between Council, Dublin Schools and Washington Township relative to Bridge Street District. He is working to identify potential dates. COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS Ms Salayr, Council representative to Planning and Zoning Commission reported that the Commission met on Thursday, April 9 in a three -hour session and ultimately recommended RECORD ff �'F�OCFEDINGS Minutes of u In City ounci DAYTON LEGAL BLANK, INC., FORM NO. 10148 Held April - 13, 201 Page 15 of 17 20 Meeting approval of the Riviera rezoning. This rezoning will be forthcoming to Council. There was a lot of debate, but she believes most of the residents in the area find the development acceptable as proposed. The rezoning is scheduled for first reading at Council on Monday, May 4. She noted that several of the Commission members, Council Member Chinnici - Zuercher and she will be attending the APA conference in Seattle this weekend. Ms. Chinnici- Zuercher, Chair, Finance Committee reported that the Committee held the quarterly financial review meeting earlier tonight. She is pleased to report that the City is in excellent financial condition. There was some reduction in income tax revenues, primarily due to the loss of a couple of major companies. However, the diverse mix of companies in Dublin is key to the stability of the tax base. Mr. Reiner, Council representative to the Dublin Arts Council encouraged everyone to attend the Dublin Arts Council Garden Party on Friday, April 17 at OCLC. This is a major fundraiser for the DAC and features wonderful food and an outstanding auction. Mr. Peterson, Council liaison to the Dublin Board of Education stated that he was not able to attend the recent meeting. He asked Mr. McDaniel to summarize what occurred. Mr. McDaniel stated that he and Ms. Mumma attended the meeting with Dr. Hoadley, Mr. Osborne, and Board Members May and Melody. A number of items were discussed, and staff brought them up to date on various economic development projects in the pipeline. They provided information regarding the US 33 initiatives, Bridge Street, and numerous other items. There was a suggestion about the possibility of a second Council representative attending these regular meetings. He and Dr. Hoadley will continue to meet regularly one -on -one. Mr. Peterson stated he does not have a strong position about having a second Council member attending these meetings. If someone is interested in doing so, that is certainly fine. Mr. Gerber stated that he is not looking to attend another meeting. However, he did speak with the Superintendent who mentioned the fact that, given his previous service as liaison to the Board, perhaps he could stop in at the meetings from time to time. If someone else is interested in doing this, that is fine as well. Mr. Peterson noted that he has the meeting schedule to share, noting that the meetings are held at the School Administration building late in the afternoon. Mayor Keenan asked that he share this information with Council. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher, MORPC Board representative noted that a Board meeting was held last week, and Mr. McDaniel and Ms. O'Callaghan also attended. She thanked Ms. Mumma for her willingness to serve on the Investment Strategy Committee for MORPC. The Columbus Council on World Affairs presented to the Board, and she will place their report in the Council conference room. This may be another group to develop a more formal relationship with as the City expands its global initiatives and potentially initiates a Sister City relationship. COUNCIL ROUNDTABLE Ms. Salav: 1. Commented regarding the Prescription Drug Disposal Dropoff Box that will be located at the Dublin Justice Center. Dublin A.C.T. Coalition championed this idea, and she is pleased that the City is taking this step. It is important to dispose of drugs properly and safely. 2. Requested that the homeowner association presidents in the area receive a copy of the letter sent to residents regarding the status of the Dublin Road South bikepath from Rings Road to Waterford Drive. It is important to note that a property owner who was not cooperative was the primary reason why construction did not occur this year — the City was prepared to proceed, but for this. Ms. Chinnici - Zuercher: 1. Congratulated the Planning and Zoning Commission, the citizens and Mr. Ruma for listening to each other and presenting a much different development plan for Riviera. The number of units is substantially different from the original plan RECORD OF PiOC�EDINGS Dublin City ounce April 13, 201 Meeting Page 16 of 17 �20 proposed by the developer. This demonstrates that community participation can impact and does positively impact the outcome. 2. Asked when the communication plan from Gallagher Consulting will be forwarded to Council. 4r. McDaniel responded that he has a memo prepared for Council, and this will be finalized tomorrow. It includes the actual framework of the plan, talking points, etc. Part of this plan suggests communication training, as has been offered in the past to staff and Council members. This will be offered in groups of whatever size is determined to be appropriate. Council will be asked for their availability on proposed dates for this training. 3. Thanked Ms. Crandall for presenting with her at the Ohio Municipal Clerks Association conference. The presentation to this group focused on working with boards and commissions. What was most interesting to learn about was the different ways that communities appoint their volunteers to boards and commissions. The group concluded that Dublin's board and commission appointment process by Council and having a staff member serve as a liaison to an individual board and commission has been key in their effectiveness in Dublin. Other cities experience problems with attendance, cancellation of meetings, etc. and the OMCA members appreciated learning of some alternative ways of managing boards and commissions so they can share the information with their cities and villages. Minutes of DAYTON LEGAL BLANK, INC., FORM NO. 10148 M Mr. Lecklider: 1. Complimented the Police Department and others involved in the establishment of the Prescription Drug Dropoff Box Program. This is a great idea, and he is pleased that Dublin has initiated this program. 2. Noted he had the opportunity on March 25 to attend the Dublin Entrepreneurial Center open house, together with the Economic Development staff and the City Manager. The event was well attended and is always an energizing experience. He spoke with the owner of Eco Chem while attending the open house. He asked Mr. McDaniel to provide information about this business. [Mr. McDaniel stated that Eco Chem is a company that offers a clean diesel product. The product was beta tested in the Dublin school buses, City fleet and Township fire department vehicles.] Eco Chem had the good fortune of having a booth at a Cleveland event attended by President Obama. The company received a lot of play in The Wall Street Journal and national media due to their presence at this event. They have received calls from all over the world with respect to their business process. This is one small example of the good things occurring at the DEC! 3. Reported that and and several other Council members attended the MORK annual meeting on April 2. 4. On Saturday, April 11, he attended the Community Champion Awards at Dublin Jerome High School. This is the 10 year of this program, which is hosted by the Dublin Chamber of Commerce and the Dublin City Schools. Many businesses in Dublin served as sponsors, as well as the City of Dublin. This is an inspiring event, and focuses on volunteerism. He was very impressed with the stories of the young students who volunteer in the community. He pointed out that the Law Director's granddaughter received a service medal. It is amazing what these young people do in service to their community and beyond! Mayor Keenan: 1. Reported that he, too, attended the MORK annual meeting. He acknowledged the award presented to former City Manager Marsha Grigsby. She received the organization's William H. Anderson award, which recognizes a current or past MORK Board member who exemplifies outstanding leadership, a vision for the community and the region, and commitment to MORK. Ms. Grigsby was recognized for her guidance in conversations about how to invest in infrastructure to benefit Central Ohio communities and the region at large. It was noted that her involvement was critical in creating the partnership between ODOT and MORK to fund and advance Dublin's I- 270/US33 interchange project. Congratulations to Ms. Grigsby! RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS Dublin City Council Minutes o __ Meeting _ D AYTON LEGAL BLANK, INC., FORM NO. 10148 -- �1 Apri1 201 - 5 Page 17 of 17 Held 20 2. Reminded Council members of the Ohio Ethics Commission filing deadline of April 15. 3. Noted that he and Vice Mayor Gerber, Washington Township Trustee Kranstuber, State Representative Duffey and Mr. McDaniel all served on a panel for Leadership Dublin in a session held recently. 4. Reported that today, he received a letter from the Mayor of Mashiko, Japan, thanking him for recently visiting their City. They were very grateful for the gifts presented to them by the City of Dublin. He noted that a taiko drum group from Dublin is visiting Mashiko this spring. The Mayor of Mashiko is very interested in pursuing a Sister City relationship with the City of Dublin. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 8:40 p.m. yor — Presidin Officer Clerk of Council