M I N U T E S
 CITY COUNCIL MEETING - COLUMBIA, MISSOURI
 JUNE 16, 1997

INTRODUCTORY
    The City Council of the City of Columbia, Missouri, met for a regular meeting at 7:00 p.m., on Monday, June 16, 1997, in the Council Chamber of the City of Columbia, Missouri.  The roll was taken with the following results:  Council Members CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU, and CROCKETT were present.  The City Manager, City Counselor, City Clerk, and various Department Heads were also present.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES
    The minutes of the regular meeting of June 2, 1997, were approved unanimously by voice vote on a motion made by Mr. Campbell and a second by Ms. Coble.

APPROVAL AND ADJUSTMENT OF AGENDA INCLUDING CONSENT AGENDA
    Mayor Hindman noted that a report would be added to the agenda under Section VIII.
    Upon her request, Mr. Campbell made the motion that Mrs. Crockett be allowed to abstain from voting on R91-97.  The motion was seconded by Ms. Coble and approved unanimously by voice vote.
    The agenda, as amended, including the Consent Agenda, was approved unanimously by voice vote on a motion made by Mr. Janku and a second by Mr. Campbell.

SPECIAL ITEMS
1.     Presentation of FY 1996 Audit.
    John Forrester, Chairman of the Finance Advisory Committee, commended the staff and Council for the management of the City's financial resources.  He said the Committee was unanimously forwarding the 1996 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (the CAFR), and the single audit report and management letter to the Council for filing.  He said the auditing firm of Ernst and Young were of exceptional quality.  He explained that this company specializes in governmental accounting and auditing.  Regarding the CAFR, Mr. Forrester pointed out that an unqualified opinion was issued, which is the best possible opinion that a governmental unit can receive on its financial documents.  Regarding the single audit report, Mr. Forrester said it was noted that the City is in compliance with Federal Financial Assistance Requirements.  Normally there would be some sort of exception expected, but in this case there had been none discovered.  Referring to the management letter, Mr. Forrester reported that the Ernst and Young team reviewed the internal controls and did not detect any material weaknesses or reportable conditions.  Mr. Forrester said the City's internal financial management is very effective.
    Mayor Hindman thanked Mr. Forrester and the Committee for their volunteer services.  He noted that the Committee is made up of highly competent, qualified people who donate their time to serve.

2.     Acknowledgment of cash gifts for City park facilities.
    Mayor Hindman acknowledged two cash contributions to the City; one from NationsBank and the other from the Cosmopolitan Luncheon Club.  Tom Hoien of NationsBank presented the City with a check for $10,000 for the renovation of the ballfield at Douglass Park.  Skip Walther of the Cosmopolitan Club presented the City with a check in the amount of $15,266 to the Parks and Recreation Department to offset the cost of a new playground at Cosmopolitan Park.

SCHEDULED PUBLIC COMMENT
    None.

PUBLIC HEARINGS
B151-97     Authorizing construction of a 12-inch water main in Woods Mill, Plat 1, and authorizing
                    payment of costs above those to install a 6-inch main.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck noted that this project was in accordance with City policy wherein the City pays for the extra diameter pipe required by the community, and the developer would pay the entire cost of the water line needed for the subdivision.  The City's share of the cost is approximately $8,000.
    Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
    There being no comments, Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
    B151-97 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU, CROCKETT.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:

B152-97     Authorizing construction of a 12-inch water main in Woods Mill, Plat 1, and authorizing
                    payment of costs above those to install an 8-inch main.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck noted the cost to the Water and Light fund for this project would be $3,700.
    Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
    There being no comments, Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
    B152-97 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU, CROCKETT.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
 
(A)     Construction of a flood intake structure at Wetland Treatment Unit No. 3.
    Item A was read by the Clerk.
    Mr. Patterson displayed the location of the flood intake structure on the overhead.  The relief structure would be constructed on the Perche Creek side of Wetland Unit No. 3.  This consists of installing two 54-inch reinforced concrete pipes with sluice gates, end sections, rip rap and other appurtenances necessary.
    The bottoms of the wetland cell were originally designed to withstand an uplift pressure equal to four feet of water.  Flood relief structures were built into the original structures to allow water to enter the cells at the time the four foot differential would be exceeded.  Mr. Patterson said it was anticipated, through a combination of retaining water in the cells by shutting the pumps off and with the design flood inlet structure, that the differential could be maintained.  However, in 1995 staff found the river water, primarily as a result of the Perche Creek, would rise at an exceedingly higher rate then could be placed in the wetland cells.  As a result, extensive damage occurred in some of the units in the wetland cells.
    Mr. Patterson said these damaged units were in the process of being repaired through a FEMA grant.  FEMA has also approved funding for installation of additional flood relief structures.  Mr. Patterson noted that these structures have been designed by the consultant that worked on the original wetland units.  The Department of Natural Resources approved the design and authorized installation of the structures.  The cost is expected to be approximately $165,000 with FEMA paying 75%, SEMA paying 10%, and the sewer utility paying about $38,000.  The staff recommends proceeding with construction and is prepared to call for bids on the project if Council authorizes the project.
    Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
    There being no comments, Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
    Ms. Coble made the motion that staff be directed to proceed with the project.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Janku and approved unanimously by voice vote.

(B)     Construction of Sewer District No. 142 (Anthony Street area) project.
    Item B was read by the Clerk.
    Mr. Patterson explained that this sewer project runs along the south side of Anthony Street, between College Avenue and William Street.  The work being proposed will consist of approximately 620 feet of eight-inch sanitary sewer line with four manholes.  The sewer line will replace a private common collector that currently serves the 12 lots contained in the District.
    Mr. Patterson explained that the new sewer line has been designed to be located to the south of the existing private common collector, and in such a manner as to minimize any damage to shrubs and existing trees.  The Sewer District was formed in response to repeated stoppages of the private common collector which prompted the Health Department to declare the line a public hazard.  The line in question has been clogged on 18 occasions in the past 23 years causing raw sewage to surface into area structures.  The most recent incident occurred in April of 1996.
    Mr. Patterson noted that the Council passed an ordinance forming this sanitary sewer district on April 21, 1997.  The estimated cost of construction is approximately $37,000, and in accordance with the policy for private common collectors, the City would share that cost equally with the property owners.  On a square foot basis, Mr. Patterson said the cost of the line would be 33.4 cents, which would result in a maximum assessment to property owners of 16.7 cents per square foot.  The resulting assessments to properties range from $1,400 to $1,900, with the sewer utility funding approximately $18,500 of the overall project cost.
    Mr. Patterson reported if the Council's wish is to proceed with construction of the project, it will be necessary to have another public hearing upon completion of the work to determine whether there has been specific benefits accrued to the properties.  Those benefits might consist of the elimination of an identified health hazard and the accompanying liability to the properties, the common cost of maintaining the private common collector would be eliminated, and connection to a public sewer line is considered an enhancement to the value of properties.  Mr. Patterson noted that later on the agenda this evening is an ordinance that allows acquisition of necessary easements for this sewer district.  He said staff recommends approval of this ordinance if authorized to proceed with the project.
    Mayor Hindman opened the public hearing.
    There being no comments, Mayor Hindman closed the public hearing.
    Mr. Campbell made the motion that staff be directed to complete final plans and specifications for Sewer District 142.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Janku and approved unanimously by voice vote.

OLD BUSINESS
B156-97     Amending Chapter 2 of the City Code regarding sales of surplus property.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck noted that this bill amends the current ordinance in accordance with recent Council discussions with staff.  The amendment permits the City to negotiate the sale of surplus property with adjoining property owners based upon fair market or appraised value.  This ordinance dictates that the Council will be consulted before any negotiations of surplus City property occurs.
    B156-97 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU, CROCKETT.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:

B128-97     Authorizing the sale of several city-owned lots along Aztec Boulevard.
    The bill was read by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck pointed out that this ordinance involves nine lots in the Indian Hills subdivision.  With the passage of the previous ordinance, the sale of these lots could be negotiated with the abutting property owners.  The staff recommends passage of the ordinance.
    Mayor Hindman asked whether the bids would be presented to the Council for approval, or if this was the last the Council would see of this issue.  Mr. Beck said this would be the last the Council would see, but the policy would be to give the abutting property owners an opportunity to purchase the lots at the fair market value.  He said if there were no offers, the lots would go out to bid.  Mr. Beck doubted bids would be accepted for less than the appraised value.
    Mrs. Crockett asked if the abutting property owners would be notified of the pending sale.  Mr. Beck said they would be.
    Mr. Campbell made the motion that B128-97 be amended per the amendment sheet.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Janku and approved unanimously by voice vote.
    B128-97, as amended, was read with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU, CROCKETT.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:

B140-97     Authorizing land acquisition for the Sewer District No. 142 (Anthony Street area) project.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck explained that this bill authorizes the acquisition of the right-of-way for the sewer district project.
    B140-97 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU, CROCKETT.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:

B150-97     Amending Chapter 27 of the City Code regarding water rates at Columbia Regional Airport.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck noted that this amendment would increase water costs to Airport customers and the City.  Consolidated Water District No. 1 had given the City notice regarding their increased rates, which is approximately 19%.
    Mayor Hindman noted that the increase would actually just be passing the City's cost along to customers.
    B150-97 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU, CROCKETT.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:

B155-97     Authorizing an agreement with the Department of Transportation for improvements at
                    Columbia Terminal's crossing at Route HH, and appropriating funds.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck said this agreement was good news for the COLT crossing at Route HH.  He said a new signal with gates will be installed.  The estimated cost is about $90,000 and, since Route HH is a state highway, the cost of the improvement will be reimbursed by the Department of Transportation.
    B155-97 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU, CROCKETT.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:

B158-97     Granting a variance regarding lot frontage for Lot 22 of West Creek, Plat 1.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck noted that this variance had been recommended for approval by the Planning and Zoning Commission on a 9-0 vote.  He said a letter had been received from the attorney explaining that this variance would settle a law suit pertaining to access on a shared driveway.
    Tom Schneider, an attorney with offices at 11 N. Seventh Street, offered to answer any questions pertaining to the issue.
    Mr. Campbell said this type of situation created his opposition to tier lots.  He said it was also the reason the Council should continue to oppose tier lots.
    B158-97 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU, CROCKETT.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:

B159-97     Vacating a public alley east of Fifth Street between Locust Street and Cherry Street.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck noted that this vacation would allow for the construction of the Health Adventure Center, a museum/educational facility.  He said the remaining part of the alley to the east has already been vacated for the new garage.
    B159-97 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU, CROCKETT.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:

B160-97     Authorizing application for Federal Transit Administration funding.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck explained that the City anticipates receiving approximately $237,000 in operating subsidy from a transit grant.  He said this bill would authorize that application.  He noted funding would be a 50% match with a cap on it, which meant that the City would not receive a grant that pays the total 50% operating subsidy which comes from the general fund.  Mr. Beck said transportation sales tax money is used for that.  He noted that the other portion dealing with capital projects was an 80% match, with the City needing to come up with 20%.
    Mr. Beck reported all that was required this evening was the second reading of the bill and explained that the public hearing notice required a 30 day advertising period.  The hearing would take place at the next regular Council meeting.
    Mr. Janku noted the increase in bus ridership since last year.

CONSENT AGENDA
    The following bills were given second reading and the resolutions were read by the Clerk.

B153-97     Accepting water utility conveyances, engineer's report and authorizing payment of
                    differential costs for a 6-inch water main along Green Valley Drive.
B154-97     Accepting utility conveyances.
B157-97     Approving the final plat of Derby Ridge, Plat 5.
B161-97     Calling for bids for construction of sanitary sewers in Sewer District 136 (Olive Street).
B162-97     Authorizing land acquisition for construction of sanitary sewers in Sewer District 138
                    (Route B/Waco Road).
R89-97       Authorizing application for FHA and FTA planning grants for FY 1998.
R90-97       Setting a public hearing regarding second phase of improvements at Rock Quarry Park.

    The bills were given third reading and the resolutions read with the vote recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU, CROCKETT.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  Bills declared enacted and resolutions declared adopted, reading as follows:

NEW BUSINESS
R91-97     Approving the preliminary plat of Belmont Village, Plat 4.
    The resolution was read by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck explained that this plat is in the northeast part of the community and would create 31 new R-1 lots.  The Planning and Zoning Commission as well as the staff recommended approval.
    The vote on R91-97 was recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSTAINING:  CROCKETT.  Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:

R92-97     Authorizing an amendment to the interconnection agreement with Union Electric.
    The resolution was read by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck noted that this agreement would cap the payment amount on short-term and unfirm power.  He said it would not increase the City's cost of power.
    Mr. Campbell asked about the term capacity cost cap.  Mr. Powell said it was a limit on the dollar per kilowatt per month that could be charged to the City if a price was negotiated.  He said the current price is negotiated and settled in a letter of agreement.  The contractual price that went into effect June 1st exceeds the previous cap in the 1988 agreement.  Mr. Campbell asked what the 15 cents per day was referring to.  Mr. Powell said it meant 15 cents per kilowatt per day.
    Upon his request, Mr. Janku made the motion that Mr. Coffman be allowed to abstain from voting on R92-97.  The motion was seconded by Ms. Coble and approved unanimously by voice vote.
    The vote on R92-97 was recorded as follows:  VOTING YES:  CAMPBELL, KRUSE, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU, CROCKETT.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  ABSTAINING:  COFFMAN.  Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:

R93-97     Authorizing an agreement with University for July 4 activities.
    The resolution was read by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck noted this is an annual agreement with the University wherein the City provides insurance coverage for the 4th of July activities.  He said the event is co-sponsored by KMIZ and the Cosmopolitan Club.  Mr. Beck explained that the cost to the City was about $1,600 and was included in the budget.
    The vote on R93-97 was recorded as follows:  VOTING YES: CAMPBELL, KRUSE, COFFMAN, HINDMAN, COBLE, JANKU, CROCKETT.  VOTING NO:  NO ONE.  Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:

    The following bills were introduced by the Mayor, unless otherwise indicated, and all were given first reading:

B163-97     Amending Chapter 14 of the City Code to prohibit parking on both sides of Silvey Street
                    between Broadway and Worley.
B164-97     Amending Chapter 14 of the City Code to prohibit parking of certain trucks on Loch Lane.
                    INTRODUCED BY CAMPBELL
B165-97     Amending Chapter 18 of the City Code regarding police pension benefits.
B166-97     Authorizing an agreement with Gary Pauley to use a private highway-rail crossing on
                    Columbia Terminal right-of-way.
B167-97     Accepting water and utility conveyances.
B168-97     Rezoning from R-3 to C-3 property on the east side of Moss Street between McAlester and
                    Gordon streets.
B169-97     Rezoning from O-1 to C-P property on the north side of West Ash Street across from
                    Heather Lane.
B170-97     Rezoning from R-3 to C-P property on the southwest corner of Wilson Avenue and Lee
                    Street.
B171-97     Establishing permanent zoning on recently annexed property on the southern edge of
                    Nifong Park.
B172-97     Approving a replat of Avalon, Plat 1-A.
B173-97     Approving the final plat of Richland Heights, Plat 2.
B174-97     Vacating a sanitary sewer easement in Richland Heights, Plat 2.
B175-97     Approving the final plat of Limerick Heights Commercial Subdivision, Plat 2-C.
B176-97     Vacating various easements in Avalon Subdivision.
B177-97     Authorizing an amendment to the agreement with the Department of Health for
                     comprehensive family planning, and appropriating funds.
B178-97     Authorizing a lease agreement with Health Adventure Center.
B179-97     Authorizing City staff to construct improvements at Rock Quarry Park.

REPORTS AND PETITIONS
(A)     Homeowner Assistance Program.
    Mr. Beck said that the Council requested this report regarding the Homeowners Assistance Program.  The report contained suggested Council actions as well.
    Mr. Campbell thought the staff suggestions were good.  He said the Council previously discussed establishing some type of priority and Mr. Campbell suggested that two-thirds of the funds should be allocated to the specific target area, which is the older part of the community, and one-third of the funds should be allocated to the other locations within the eligibility area.  Mayor Hindman asked if Mr. Campbell was referring to a long-term policy.  Mr. Campbell said he was.  Mr. Janku assumed a map would be created that would clearly define these areas.  Mr. Campbell agreed.  Mr. Janku said he found the range to be acceptable.
    Regarding the housing types, Mr. Janku said single family and condominium housing was acceptable, but he had a couple of concerns about duplex housing being funded through this program.  One reason was the paper work requirement and problems associated with tracking to whom the duplex was being leased.  Another concern was the possibility of having a sprawl of duplex developments.  Mr. Janku was also troubled about someone of low income trying to manage, rent, and maintain property.  He said when something goes wrong and money was needed for repairs or maintenance, the homeowner may not be able to afford it.  For those reasons, Mr. Janku requested that duplexes be excluded from the list for eligibility.
    In the list of housing types, Mayor Hindman noted staff's survey list contained such things as single family attached or detached townhouses.  He asked if Mr. Janku had a problem with these homes being eligible for funding.  Mr. Janku said townhouses were within the concept of single family housing, whether it be attached or detached.  He also did not have an objection with new and existing homes.
    Ms. Coble agreed with Mr. Janku's assessment and would also like to see duplexes excluded.
    Mayor Hindman was sensing that the Council wished to have a resolution prepared setting forth the policy outlined, which would include virtually any kind of single family housing with the exception of duplexes.
    Mr. Hancock was under the impression that staff was to come back to the Council with a set of guidelines and continue moving with the program under those guidelines, and then at a later date introduce a policy resolution to set the guidelines.  He would like to move forward as soon as additional funds are transferred into the program, assuming the Council approves it, with the guidelines that have been discussed tonight.  He said there are some who have been waiting in the wings for a couple of weeks now for a decision.  Mr. Hancock hoped to submit the policy resolution for Council approval within the next meeting or two.
    Mayor Hindman said he was sure the Council wanted him to proceed.
    Mr. Janku asked if the $64,000 would be enough funding for 30 or more units this year.  Mr. Hancock said it could be.
    Mr. Campbell made the motion that the staff be directed to prepare a policy resolution along the lines of the provisions previously discussed.  The motion was seconded by Ms. Coble and approved unanimously by voice vote.

(B)     Homeowners Request to Remove Class II Route (Bicycle Lane) on Forum.
    Mr. Kruse said the homeowner had a valid request.  Mr. Kruse had been under the impression when it had been discussed previously by the Council that the lanes would extend all the way to Mill Creek, but for some reason it did not occur to him that there were some houses that would be affected.  He thought the request was appropriate and suggested that the Class II lanes be removed.
    Mr. Kruse made the motion that the staff be directed to prepare an ordinance to add parking to this section of Forum Boulevard, and to prepare a resolution removing the Class II bicycle route (in front of the three homes on the west side of Forum just north of Mill Creek).  He asked that this portion be designated a Class III Route.  The motion was seconded by Ms. Coble and approved unanimously by voice vote.

(C)     Status of Coal Supply and Coal Bids for the Municipal Power Plant.
    Mr. Beck said the report indicates that the bid recommended for approval amounts to an approximate $2.5 million three year coal contract.  Mr. Beck noted it would save the City about $100,000 per year when compared to the current contract.  Staff would also be installing a shaker at the Power Plant that has a payoff of less than five years.  He said the intent was to award the three year bid for the coal and to install the shaker at the Power Plant.  He noted that the coal supplier was planning to use the City's short line railroad for the next three years.

(D)     Cost of Undergrounding Power Lines, Kavanaugh Easement.
    Mr. Beck said the Water and Light Department conferred with the Public Works Department regarding the question on the sidewalk easement.  He said in his opinion it had been accurately reported that there was no certainty where the sidewalk would be.
    Having made the suggestion of a possible sidewalk easement, Mr. Janku said he would withdraw his suggestion given the complications it causes, but thought the City should be open to the idea of having a sidewalk on the other side of the street.  Mr. Janku did not want to consider the sidewalk easement as part of this project.

(E)     Intra-Departmental Transfer of Funds Request.
    Report accepted.

(F)     Community Garden Site, Clinton Street.
    Mr. Beck forwarded to the Council a letter from a resident in the area who had concerns regarding the Clinton Street garden site, in addition to the report from the City staff.   Referring to the staff report, Mr. Beck pointed out significant issues that need to be addressed in an agreement with the Community Garden Coalition.  He said the Coalition is going to meet later in the week and had asked that this issue be delayed until after that meeting.
    Mr. Janku said when this process was initiated, the Council thought the issue might be resolved in time for this summer's planting season.  This does not seem to be the case.  He said there was obviously a lot of interest for a community garden in this area.  Mr. Janku thought perhaps a better location might be found.  He suggested Again Park as it is in the area and contains more open space and is easily accessible.
    Ms. Coble reported she had been contacted by people wanting to make donations to the Community Garden Coalition to help pay for the spigot installation after the water main is laid.  She thought if the issue is resolved soon, the residents might well be able to proceed and get some planting done yet this season.  Ms. Coble did not see a problem with investigating Again Street Park as another spot for gardens.

(G)     MKT Trail Head Committee Report.
    Mr. Beck said this is a report from Mr. Ott, Chair of the Trail Head Committee, with recommendations concerning the MKT Trail Head.  Mr. Beck briefly discussed the report with Mr. Patterson and they had concerns regarding the removal of an old brick structure on the property.
    Mr. Patterson said problems could be encountered if the staff did any major excavating in the area.  He said the building could be taken down to ground level, but the disturbance of the soil underneath would trigger subsurface investigations and this could become a very lengthy and expensive process.  Mayor Hindman did not think the Committee was asking for anything more than taking the building down to the ground.  He thought the basic idea was to get the area cleaned up so it will look better.  He asked if that made a difference -- if the ground under the building was not disturbed.  Mr. Patterson said from an environmental assessment, it would make a lot of difference.  He asked if it was the Council's desire that staff should obtain a cost estimate to have this work contracted out.  He said staff needed a specific direction on the removal of the building.  Mr. Patterson said on a project such as this, staff would generally prepare bid documents for removal of the building to whatever extent the Council wanted to have it removed.  He said the work would be done under the City's inspection.
    Mr. Beck said removal of the building could be bid through the Purchasing Department.  He suggested that legislation be brought back to the next meeting which would authorize the Purchasing Agent to call for bids.  Mayor Hindman did not think there would be a great deal of work required in taking the building down.  Mr. Kruse thought someone might be interested in recycling the bricks.  Mr. Beck said he would look into it, but thought the Public Works Department was currently in the middle of the street maintenance program.  He said a report and some legislation would be brought back.

(H)     Cooperative Land Use Planning.
    Mayor Hindman explained that the Council received a letter from the County Commission regarding suggestions for cooperative land use planning in the area immediately surrounding the Columbia Regional Airport.  He pointed out that the land was in the county and the Commission would ultimately make the decision on the zoning and use of it, but have offered to include the Council's input.
    Mr. Janku stated he is willing to delegate to the Mayor the responsibility and authority to work with the County Commission on this issue.  Mr. Janku reported the only suggestion he would offer is perhaps a slight change in the make-up of the committee's proposed membership.
    Mr. Campbell seconded Mr. Janku's suggestion.  He said the Council had discussed this issue briefly at the pre-Council dinner and thought the ideas expressed had been well taken.  Mr. Campbell said if the Mayor wanted to carry those ideas forward, he would be very supportive.
    Mr. Kruse said the Council appreciated the opportunity to have input into the planning process.  He noted the letter from the Commission listed six areas for review and suggested that a seventh be added -- a broader review of the impact of development around the airport regarding urban sprawl.
    Mayor Hindman said he would be glad to discuss these suggestions if that was the sense of the Council.
    Mr. Janku made the motion that Mayor Hindman be delegated and authorized to work with the County Commission on the issue of land use planning.  The motion was seconded by Mr. Campbell and approved unanimously by voice vote.

BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
    Upon receiving the majority vote of the Council, the following individuals were appointed to the following Boards and Commissions:

LIBRARY BOARD
Bartlett, Beatrice C., 1627 Wilson, Ward 6 - term to expire 6/30/00
Dragich, Martha J., 112 W. Burnam Road, Ward 5 - term to expire 6/30/00
Galenes, Alex A., 2718 Cimarron Drive, Ward 5 - term to expire 6/30/00

BOARD OF MECHANICAL EXAMINERS
Kidwell, Dennis L., 1105 Bob-O-Link, Ward 6 - term to expire 6/17/00
Reed, Jimmy D., 1905 W. Rollins, Ward 4 - term to expire 6/17/00

PLUMBING CODE COMMISSION
Clithero, Philip J., 4208 S. Wappel, Ward 4 - term to expire 5/31/99

RAILROAD ADVISORY BOARD
Edwards, Nylen W., 1113 Doral Drive, Ward 5 - term to expire 7/15/01
Wulff, Harry J., 605 Rockhill Road, Ward 6 - term to expire 7/15/01

WATER & LIGHT ADVISORY BOARD
Wollersheim, David E., Box 350, Ward 2 - term to expire 6/30/01

CULTURAL AFFAIRS STANDING COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC ART
Larson, Sidney, 1408 Whitburn, Ward 5 - term to expire 7/1/98 (Artist)
Odneal, Jean A., 1100 S. Rangeline, County - term to expire 7/1/98 (Artist)
Glenn, Peggy J., 2019 Crestridge, Ward 4 - term to expire 7/1/98 (Business)

COMMENTS OF COUNCIL, STAFF AND PUBLIC
    Mrs. Crockett voiced a concern about Wyatt Lane and Thompson Road.  She said the County had just recently paved this area and residents felt there should be a four-way stop at this location as drivers tend to sail through the intersection since the paving.  She said the residents have contacted the County and the City regarding the situation, but nobody is sure where the responsibility lies.
    Mr. Campbell called attention to the Martin Luther King Memorial Gardens.  He said it was an absolutely beautiful spot and did not think many people knew about it.  He complimented Dick Green and his staff on the design and maintenance of it.
    Mr. Kruse asked about the actual increase in bus ridership as he had been hearing conflicting numbers.  He asked specifically about the total increase in ridership since the route changes took effect.  Mr. Patterson indicated an update would be provided to the Council.  He said it amounts to an increase of 21% last year, and about 14% the year before.  He said those were the two years that reflected the major changes made in the system.  Mr. Kruse said the progress should be emphasized.  He continues to receive comments from people in the Fifth Ward about empty buses.  He thought these comments were directed at the yellow route that runs up and down Forum.  Mr. Patterson said staff had been working on reports regarding some route questions by the Council.  He said staff hoped to have those counts by next month.  Mr. Kruse said he knew there was a marketing plan to promote ridership and that parts of it had been implemented.  He asked whether staff was still waiting until all of the buses and shelters are operational before implementing the marketing plan completely.  Mr. Patterson felt a better job of marketing is being done, but it probably is not as aggressive as it should be.  He said several thousand dollars a year is spent on advertisements and promotion of the bus system.  He said one delay had been getting the new buses in.  Mr. Patterson hoped to see a more visible marketing effort within the next six months.  Mr. Kruse encouraged some site specific marketing, like door-to-door in apartment complexes.
    Mr. Coffman agreed with Mr. Kruse's comments about marketing.  He thought the students were an untapped market and the best time to target this group would be at the onset of the school year before transportation habits are established.
    Mr. Coffman had been contacted by the Missouri Environmental Fund and was asked about the City's work place charitable giving program.  He wondered if the City had looked into a policy where many different charitable programs could be given as options instead of just the United Way program.  Mr. Beck said a report had been prepared earlier for the Council and he would see to it that Mr. Coffman received a copy.  Mr. Janku said that had been received a few years back.  Mayor Hindman thought this was being investigated and staff was looking into some cases.  He said there was the contention that the City had to provide options because there had been some cases establishing that if one company was allowed to seek charitable contributions, that options would have to be open to all.  Mr. Boeckmann had a vague recollection of this discussion and thought someone was going to give him some cases to review, which he never received.  Mayor Hindman thought perhaps he was the "someone".  He said he will try to find the cases and get them to Mr. Boeckmann so background information will be available when discussing this issue.  Mr. Coffman said it was his hope it could be open to all companies, and that it would also be very permissive and not in any way implied to be mandatory.  Mr. Beck noted that City employees had been polled and they had not been in favor of it.  Mr. Kruse said that had been three or four years ago.  Mr. Coffman said he was just suggesting that the City look into a policy where any number of programs could be offered as alternatives.
    Regarding the Audubon/Stadium intersection, Mr. Coffman said the Council heard from the developer about what would be donated, and he wanted to check with the staff to ensure that whatever preparations to be done by the City has been determined so that the intersection could be accomplished with all deliberate speed.  He remembered the Theatre saying they wanted to be ready by the first of the year.  Mr. Patterson said nothing had been received from the developer since that last conversation.  He presumed there would be some kind of agreement brought to the Council to bind the developer to what had been stated regarding donations.  Currently, staff is proceeding based on comments from the developer at that meeting.  Mr. Patterson said he would follow-up on it.
    Regarding the intersection, Mr. Janku asked if the staff had looked into the site at all in terms of what might need to be done as far as any utility relocations so the various City departments could be planning.  Mr. Patterson said they had not.  He said typically, staff would presume the developer would hire the engineer to make the design and that would determine any utility relocations, lane widening, and complete geometrics of the intersection.  Based on that design, it would be submitted to the Department of Transportation for their review and approval.  He said the City would not be physically involved in that stage, the developer and engineer would be responsible for those types of determinations.  Mr. Janku was concerned about the time it would take to get through all of the hoops before, for example, Water and Light would know that a water line needed to be relocated.  He said at that point it would be too late.  He thought the staff should have at least a rough idea as to what might be involved.  Mr. Patterson said Water and Light may wish to address the issue, but, for the most part, utilities do not move actual facilities until there is a determination that this is required.  He said all of that information should be gathered in the preliminary design stage.
    Ms. Coble said she had received several calls about the possible need for a four-way stop at Ridgeway and Donnelly.  She said there were a lot of children in the neighborhood and, with school being out, a lot of kids were riding their bikes.  She said it was a convenient and apparently speedy cut through for many.
    Regarding stop signs, Mr. Janku brought up Derby Ridge at Smiley Lane.  He said the street connection had been made on one side and he thought the second side would soon be completed.  He said a lot more traffic would be flowing through the intersection, from north to south, and there would be the second school opening and Spencer's Crest going in.  Given all of the traffic and school children going through the intersection, he did not think the City should wait for a traffic count to justify signage.  He thought it was appropriate to examine the necessity for a four-way stop and hopefully have it installed before the school year starts.
    Mr. Janku was pleased the City received the donation from NationsBank for Douglass Park.  Previously, the Council heard suggestions from Mr. Whitlock about enhancing participation in certain sports, including soccer, among minority youth.  Mr. Janku did not think there was a soccer field in the central city and thought, particularly with the additional funds, the City may want to look at putting up goal posts at the new field and possibly have a soccer facility people could use. He asked the staff to look into the possibility and report back.
    Since Wendy's has closed at Ninth and Elm, Mr. Janku said there was no restriction in terms of parking and other activities.  Until the building is sold, he asked if the City could consider renting it to use for short-term parking.  Mr Beck said the staff is presently looking into the situation.
    Mayor Hindman said there had been a lot of discussions regarding four-way stops and questioned whether or not the City should be looking at some sort of traffic calming approaches to some of the situations, instead of having four-way stops all over town.  He understood these devices had been used very effectively in a good number of locations.  Mayor Hindman suggested staff look into some alternatives.  Mr. Patterson agreed and said staff received approval for the first study on Lynnwood for traffic calming.  He pointed out that the City does not typically make traffic counts for four-way stops during the summer months because of the influence of schools.  Mr. Patterson did not expect to have reports back until after the new school year begins.
    Mr. Janku asked if projections could be made.  Mr. Patterson said the Council at any time could direct staff to install a four-way stop in a location where it does not meet traffic warrants.  He said the City could not make legitimate projections and, based on the counts last year, did not think there was any way those warrants would be met.  He reiterated that staff could install unwarranted signals and stop signs upon the direction of the Council.  Mr. Janku knew projections had been provided in the past and thought it would be interesting to see what the warrants are.
    Regarding Oakland Road, going north from Smiley Lane to the 63 intersection, Mrs. Crockett said it was an unimproved street and 18-wheel trucks were using it as a short-cut to 763.  She asked about signage prohibiting trucks on this road.  Mr. Patterson said the Council would have to pass an ordinance prohibiting it and then the Police could enforce it.  He said it was a collector street for the purpose of providing more than just residential traffic, but it was the prerogative of the Council to restrict traffic on any street.  Mr. Patterson said staff could prepare an ordinance for the Council to discuss.  He said when this is done, typically everyone in the area is notified to provide an opportunity for comment.  Mrs. Crockett asked that an ordinance be prepared.  Mr. Beck asked if she wanted all trucks restricted or trucks over a certain size.  Mr. Patterson said staff would bring back alternatives.
    Paul Albert, 2703 Parker, spoke about insulation versus tree planting.  He said builders need to thoroughly insulate at the time of construction.
    Waldo Palmer, 414 Alexander, asked if the lots in Indian Hills the City was going to sell were zoned R-1.  Mr. Janku replied that the Council had rezoned them to R-1.  Mr. Palmer asked if there were sanitary sewers in front of each of the lots.  Mr. Beck thought there was, but suggested that Mr. Palmer check with Public Works to make certain.
    The meeting adjourned at 8:50 p.m.
                                                                                             Respectfully submitted,

                                                                                             Penny St. Romaine
                                                                                             City Clerk