M I N U T E S
CITY COUNCIL MEETING - COLUMBIA, MISSOURI
AUGUST 7, 2000

INTRODUCTORY
    The City Council of the City of Columbia, Missouri met for a regular meeting at 7:00 p.m., on Monday, August 7, 2000, in the Council Chamber of the City of Columbia, Missouri. The roll was taken with the following results: Council Members COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CROCKETT, and CAMPBELL were present. Member JOHN was absent. The City Manager, City Counselor, City Clerk, and various Department Heads were also present.
 

APPROVAL OF MINUTES
    The minutes of the regular meeting of July 17, 2000, were approved unanimously by voice vote on a motion made by Mr. Campbell and a second by Mrs. Crockett.
 

APPROVAL AND ADJUSTMENT OF AGENDA INCLUDING CONSENT AGENDA
    The agenda, as amended, including the Consent Agenda, was approved unanimously by voice vote on a motion made by Mrs. Crockett and a second by Ms. Crayton.
 

SPECIAL ITEMS
1.     Oath of Office administered to Information Services Director and Planning and Development Director.
    The City Clerk administered the Oath of Office to both Robert Simms, Information Services Director, and Roy Dudark, Planning and Development Director. The City Manager presented both gentlemen with their commissions and welcomed them to the city.
 

SCHEDULED PUBLIC COMMENTS
    None.
 

PUBLIC HEARINGS
    None.
 

OLD BUSINESS
PR134-00     Establishing a policy and standards for pedestrian crossings.
    The policy resolution was read by the Clerk.
    Mayor Hindman explained that a letter had been received from the Bicycle/Pedestrian Commission asking that this item be tabled so it could be further reviewed by the Commission.
    Mr. Campbell made the motion that PR134-00 be tabled to the October 2, 2000, meeting. The motion was seconded by Mr. Coffman and approved unanimously by voice vote.
 

PR135-00     Establishing a policy on requests for variances to requirements for construction of sidewalks along
                     unimproved streets.
    The policy resolution was read by the Clerk.
    Since the Council work session, Mr. Beck reported that Mr. Patterson had put together a summary memo regarding issues he believed required further review. Also included in the memo were suggested solutions for the issues.
    Mrs. Crockett suggested that the item be tabled and brought back as a public hearing so the Homebuilders Association, developers, and engineers can be advised of the issue. She asked that staff notify these groups.
    Mr. Campbell suggested that a copy of Mr. Patterson's memo be sent along with the notification as well.
    Mrs. Crockett made the motion that PR135-00 be tabled to the October 2, 2000, meeting. The motion was seconded by Ms. Crayton and approved unanimously by voice vote.
 

B217-00     Amending Chapter 14 of the Code to restrict parking on the south side of Clarkson Road.
    The bill was read by the Clerk.
    Mayor Hindman noted a request to table this issue until September 5, 2000.
    Mrs. Crockett made the motion that B217-00 be tabled to the September 5, 2000, meeting. The motion was seconded by Mr. Campbell and approved unanimously by voice vote.
 

B224-00     Appropriating funds for capital improvement projects.
    The bill was given second reading by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck reported that the Cultural Affairs Commission is working on the one percent for the arts program for both the recreation center and the fire station projects. Being proposed is an appropriation of $100,000 for the recreation center and $12,000 for the fire station.
    B224-00 was given third reading with the vote recorded as follows: VOTING YES: COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: JOHN. Bill declared enacted, reading as follows:
 

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

B216-00     Amending Chapter 14 of the Code to allow the rental of a parking meter hood for the Municipal Court
                   bailiff to transfer inmates.
B218-00     Amending the contract with the State of Missouri regarding the WIC program; appropriating funds.
B219-00     Accepting grant of easements for water and electric purposes.
B220-00     Changing the street name of "White Tiger Lane" to "White Tiger Street."
B221-00     Vacating a drainage easement within Spencer's Crest Subdivision, Plat 1.
B222-00     Approving the engineer's final report for the Worley Street and Again Street West drainage project.
B223-00     Approving engineer's final report; accepting a deed of dedication; authorizing payment of differential
                   costs for water main serving Quail Creek, Plat 1.
R143-00     Setting a public hearing: voluntary annexation of property located generally north of State Route K
                   and southeast of Old Plank Road.
R144-00     Setting a public hearing: property tax rates for 2000.
R145-00     Setting a public hearing: FY 2001 budget.
R146-00     Setting a public hearing: construction of water main serving Heritage Estates, Plat 1.
R147-00     Setting a public hearing: special assessments against property benefitted by improvements made to
                   Grant Lane.
R148-00     Setting a public hearing: consider Amendment No. 7 to Planning Report (201 Facility Plan) on
                   Wastewater Collection and Treatment.
R149-00     Setting a public hearing: repairing and resurfacing certain streets.
R150-00     Setting a public hearing: rehabilitation of the airfield lighting control cables at Columbia Regional
                   Airport.
R151-00     Authorizing an agreement with James Mallette for operation of a telephone credit card vending
                   machine at the Airport.
R152-00     Authorizing an agreement with Silver Horizon Enterprises, Inc. for lease of 9 North Eighth Street.
R153-00     Authorizing a proposal to be submitted to the Missouri Department of Health for family planning
                   funds for FY 2001.
R154-00     Authorizing an agreement with the Missouri Department of Health for the Child Dental Sealant
                   Program.
R155-00     Terminating an adopt a spot agreement with Cindy Daugherty; authorizing an agreement with Carole
                   Simon.
R156-00     Authorizing an agreement for donation of land.
R157-00     Authorizing application for FY 2001 FHWA and FTA planning grants.
R158-00     Authorizing a revised agreement with the Columbia Community Development Corporation and
                   approving a request of HOME funds.
R159-00     Authorizing an agreement with Central Missouri Sheltered Enterprises, Inc. for CDBG funds.

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

NEW BUSINESS
R160-00     Authorizing an agreement with The Curators of the University of Missouri to provide shuttle service
                   on campus.
    The resolution was read by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck explained that the City has provided a shuttle service to students in the University area since the 1980's. He noted the University periodically requests that this service be re-bid to assure that competitive prices are being received. He reported the City had been successful in retaining the shuttle service contract. Mr. Beck noted that a private contractor was awarded the Para Transit evening hours service.
    Mr. Janku asked about the expansion of the availability of services to the University. Mr. Patterson replied that the City has always had some contracted evening service, and part of the bid proposal this year was to run a fixed route for extended hours to the Forum Shopping Center and back to campus each evening. He said that is above and beyond what had been done in the past. Mr. Janku asked about the possibility of a pass that students could pay for through their student fee that would entitle them to ride the bus system. Mr. Patterson said those discussions are still ongoing. He felt progress was being made in that direction. He noted the big issue as being the additional fee cost to the student.
    The vote on R160-00 was recorded as follows: VOTING YES: COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: JOHN. Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:
 

R161-00     Authorizing right of use permit with Boone Hospital Center to install fiber optic and telecommunications
                   cable within William Street rights-of-way.
    The resolution was read by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck noted that a policy is in place for this procedure and that the project has been reviewed by the Public Works Department and all other utilities involved.
    The vote on R161-00 was recorded as follows: VOTING YES: COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: JOHN. Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:
 

R162-00     Authorizing a school resource officer agreement with the Columbia Public School System.
    The resolution was read by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck explained that this would allow for the addition of two police officers for which the school district would be paying 75% of the total cost for the program. The officers would work out of Hickman and Rock Bridge High Schools.
    Chief Boehm noted that 75% of the cost represents the nine months of the school year that the officers would actually be assigned to the schools. During the summer, these individuals will be put on the street as beat officers.
    The vote on R162-00 was recorded as follows: VOTING YES: COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: JOHN. Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:
 

R163-00     Authorizing an agreement with KPMG, LLP for audit services.
    The resolution was read by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck noted that the City changes auditors every few years and that proposals had been taken and were reviewed by the Finance Advisory Committee and the staff. The recommendation was KPMG, LLP with an estimated cost for the first year of $80,750. Renewals with suggested increases were included if their services are continued after the first year.
    Mr. Campbell asked if the firm has had considerable experience with new federal statutes. Ms. Fleming replied that actually no one has had considerable experience with the new guidelines; however, she said this firm is a leader in working with the GASB (Governmental Accounting Standards Board) and other agencies. She added that KPMG, LLP has the best training program that the staff is aware of. Ms. Fleming indicated that the new GASB pronouncement goes into effect with the 2001 financial statements.
    John Clark, 403 N. Ninth, encouraged the Council to establish an Audit Committee to which the Finance Advisory Board would be an advisory group.
    The vote on R163-00 was recorded as follows: VOTING YES: COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: JOHN. Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:
 

R164-00     Authorizing agreements to receive state funds for a Cultural Tourism and Festival Marketing
                   Campaign and a promotional campaign for the Katy Trail.
    The resolution was read by the Clerk.
    Lorah Steiner explained that annually the Convention and Visitors Bureau submits an application to the Missouri Division of Tourism for matching funds for different programs. She noted they were successful with two applications this year; one for the Katy Central Initiative and the other for Cultural Tourism and Festivals.
    Mayor Hindman commented that if the City continues to promote the Katy Trail, he believed more thought should be given as to how to get the people using the trail to come to Columbia. He indicated that he spoke to the Director of the Department of Natural Resources about an advertising campaign, and he had been very enthusiastic about the idea. Mayor Hindman thought the possibility of doing some cooperative work looked good.
    Ms. Steiner responded that C&VB has done some photographic documentation of the junction at McBaine and the subject is on the next Board agenda. She indicated they would be discussing how to fund it and what other funding alternatives might be out there. Ms. Steiner knew it was not something that can be funded through the Missouri Division of Tourism, but thought it might be fundable through DNR.
    Mr. Janku asked how the City could work with the agencies that produce the maps to show the link on the map. Ms. Steiner replied they would have to ask them. She added it was just noticed that the link is not shown on the State Highway map this year. They are working to get that corrected.
    The vote on R164-00 was recorded as follows: VOTING YES: COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: JOHN. Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:
 

R165-00     Authorizing a grant agreement with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources for stabilization
                   improvements to the Blind Boone Home.
    The resolution was read by the Clerk.
    Mr. Beck explained this would provide limited work to the Boone Home using CDBG monies for the match.
    Mayor Hindman asked where things stood on the actual acquisition of the property. Mr. Beck explained that it has not been acquired yet. He reported that he would send the Council some more information on it.
    The vote on R165-00 was recorded as follows: VOTING YES: COFFMAN, HINDMAN, CRAYTON, JANKU, CROCKETT, CAMPBELL. VOTING NO: NO ONE. ABSENT: JOHN. Resolution declared adopted, reading as follows:
 

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

B225-00     Setting property tax rates for 2000.
B226-00     Adopting the FY 2001 Budget.
B227-00     Calling for bids for the rehabilitation of the airfield lighting control cables at Columbia Regional Airport.
B228-00     Approving Change Order No. 1; approving engineer's final report; levying and assessing special
                   assessments for the Grant Lane Improvement Project; appropriating funds.
B229-00     Authorizing the repair and resurfacing of certain streets.
B230-00     Approving Amendment No. 1 to the agreement with Burns & McDonnell for design and construction
                   services related to the Wetland Treatment Unit Repair Project; appropriating funds.
B231-00     Amending Chapter 14 of the City Code to restrict parking for sections of Coats Street, Eighth Street
                   and Stewart Road.
B232-00     Amending Chapter 14 of the City Code to prohibit parking along the south side of Park Avenue
                   between Eighth Street and Rogers Street.
B233-00     Authorizing right of use permit with Williams Communications, Inc. to install underground
                   telecommunications system under Falling Leaf Lane and Falling Leaf Court rights-of-way.
B234-00     Authorizing financial assistance agreements with the Mid-Missouri Solid Waste District;
                   appropriating funds.
B235-00     Accepting easements and quit claim deeds for sewer, drainage, electric and water purposes.
B236-00     Authorizing construction of water main serving Heritage Estates, Plat 1; authorizing payment of
                   differential costs; appropriating funds.
B237-00     Approving engineer's final report; accepting a deed of dedication; authorizing payment of differential
                   costs for water main serving Vanderveen Crossing, Plat 3.
B238-00     Amending Chapter 27 of the Code to authorize the City Manager to enter into agreements to provide
                   specialized utility services to other cities, utilities or customers.
B239-00     Accepting easements and deeds of dedications for water, electric, sewer and utility purposes.
B240-00     Appropriating funds for COLT car hire charges.
B241-00     Vacating an electric easement.
B242-00     Vacating an electric easement located within Woodrail Subdivision, Plat No. 7; accepting a grant of
                   easement for electric purposes.
B243-00     Vacating a portion of a street easement for Brown School Road; accepting a grant of easement for
                   street purposes.
B244-00     Vacating a portion of a sewer easement located within Cambridge Place Subdivision.
B245-00     Approving the replat of Cambridge Place Subdivision; authorizing a performance contract.
B246-00     Approving the final plat of Curtright Subdivision; authorizing a performance contract.
B247-00     Authorizing an annexation agreement with Tony J. and Shellie J. Spaedy.
B248-00     Granting a sidewalk variance to the Subdivision Regulations along the north side of Opal Drive,
                   west of Wyatt Lane.
B249-00     Appropriating funds for the Flat Branch Development Project.
B250-00     Appropriating funds for the Fourth and Cherry Clean-up Project.
B251-00     Appropriating funds for the Memorial Tree and Bench Program.
B252-00     Authorizing a lease agreement with option to purchase with Greenwing Development, LLC.
B253-00     Levying and assessing special tax bills for abatement of weed nuisances.
B254-00     Authorizing an agreement with the Missouri Department of Health for the Home Visiting Program;
                   appropriating funds.
B255-00     Authorizing an agreement with American Legion Herbert Williams Post 202 for donation of parkland
                   and annexation of the Legion property.
B256-00     Renewing the Temporary Revocable Utility Permit granted to Digital Teleport, Inc.
B257-00     Authorizing an antenna agreement with VoiceStream PCS II Corporation for lease of space on the
                   Walnut Street water tower.
B258-00     Appropriating hotel/motel tax funds for the Boone County Heritage Festival and the Columbia Fall
                   Festival of the Arts.
B259-00     Calling an election on local parks sales tax.
 

REPORTS AND PETITIONS
A)     Intra-Departmental Transfer of Funds
    Report accepted.
 

B)     FY 2000 Special Project for Auditors
    Mr. Beck explained that each year, according to policy guidelines, the external auditor is asked to do a special study. He said the Finance Committee and the staff have met and recommended a project that would review the City's infrastructure assets that are tracked in the Hansen System software program.
    Ms. Fleming explained this project relates to the GASB pronouncement in that the value of the City's infrastructure assets must be placed on the books. She reported the value of all streets, sidewalks, and bridges must be determined. Ms. Fleming noted that Columbia is years ahead of most cities as the inventory in the Public Works Department is computerized. She stated the auditors will assist in developing a valuation methodology of the Hansen System. If it is deemed that this system is not acceptable, the auditors could assist in developing a different methodology.
    Mr. Janku asked about the Hansen System. Mr. Patterson responded that it primarily started out as a street maintenance software program that has evolved into a complete infrastructure management system. He commented that all of the City's street and sidewalk segments, as well as storm drainage systems are inventoried on it.
    Mr. Campbell made the motion that the Council approve this as the special audit project. The motion was seconded by Mr. Janku and approved unanimously by voice vote.
 

C)     Street Closure Request
    Mr. Beck noted that this request has been reviewed by the Central Columbia Association board and they recommended approval.
    Mr. Campbell made the motion that the Council approve the request as submitted. The motion was seconded by Mrs. Crockett and approved unanimously by voice vote.
 

D)     Effects of Lighting on Crime
    Mrs. Crockett thanked the staff for the report. She believed it was very beneficial.

E)     Minor Transit Route Adjustments
    Mr. Patterson explained that this proposal would not require a formalized public hearing because it does not meet the criteria FTA has approved for major changes in the transit system. He noted the proposed adjustments are defined as minor which requires a public notification process. Essentially the changes will consist of some reconfiguration of existing routes in order to enable more timeliness in schedules. Mr. Patterson noted that they have included a couple of areas the Council had expressed an interest in serving (the Hanover area and the Mohawk/Aztec area of Indian Hills Subdivision). He commented the net result of the adjustments will result in a combined saving of 13 minutes. From an operational standpoint, Mr. Patterson indicated these changes would enable the transit system to be of better service to customers.
    Mrs. Crockett was pleased to see the Hanover Village area included in the route changes as many of those residents are elderly and handicapped people.
    Regarding the change on the west leg of the red route, Mr. Janku said it addresses one concern he had received a call about, but he was disappointed to see the bus route is being moved away from the school rather than closer to it. Mr. Patterson responded to move the route closer to the school would result in a major change. He indicated the reason for the changes being proposed tonight is because the buses are not able to keep on schedule as it is. He related that staff is still looking at other options for what would be called "major changes", but he noted that will result in some routes being cut, or if new routes are added, that will increase the time to the system. Mr. Patterson stated that staff is aware of the fact that the bus routes need to be as close to the schools as possible.
    Mr. Campbell made the motion that staff be directed to proceed with public notification prior to implementation of the transit route adjustments. The motion was seconded by Mr. Coffman and approved unanimously by voice vote.

F)     Airport Advisory Board Recommendation on Passenger Facility Charges
    After this issue was discussed by the Council, Mr. Beck explained that it had been referred it to the Advisory Board for a recommendation. The Board's recommendation was to include a passenger facility charge of $4.50 per enplaning passenger. Mr. Beck reported if this charge were implemented, it could generate about $299,000 per year that could be used only for improvements at the airport in accordance with a plan approved by FAA.
    Since the City has been trying to increase the passenger use of the airport, Mr. Campbell said he would feel quite comfortable voting for this charge if it was limited to improvements and enhancements for the terminal. Mayor Hindman noted this would be an ongoing charge. Mr. Campbell said that was true, but the only way he could support it would be if the aesthetics and comfort of the passengers were the first priority.
    Mrs. Crockett remarked that she had been contacted by constituents who are concerned about getting charged the additional $4.50. She noted that the FAA usually funds about 90% of the applicable City airport projects. Mrs. Crockett commented if this passenger charge is added onto the cost of a ticket, she believed people would prefer to take the bus shuttle into St. Louis.
    Mr. Janku noted that over 130 communities have implemented this charge. He stated the City does not have the resources to cover all of the important operations at the airport, and not all of the projects are eligible for FAA grants. Mr. Janku believed if the City is going to have a quality airport to attract and keep passengers, we need to be able to find the funds for improvements. He noted that the users of the airport do not pay anything other than the general sales tax to support it. Consistent with the philosophy that users should help support operations they are benefitting from, Mr. Janku encouraged the Council to support the recommendation.
    Mr. Campbell asked about the present charge for enplaning passengers. Mr. Patterson replied there are not any charges for such. Mr. Campbell observed this charge would be a $4.50 increase. Mr. Patterson said that was correct, but Mr. Janku was correct in that the first two boarding airports are allowed to charge the passenger charge. He noted these charges, in all probability, are being collected at other airports now. If Columbia is allowed to assess the charge, Mr. Patterson said it would not be like every ticket would go up $4.50 because the passenger is paying it someplace along the line. He reported that staff has communicated with Ozark Airlines and found them to be very supportive of this charge because they understand that the City is not likely to make the improvements that are needed unless we are able to fund the local portion of the federal grants. Mr. Patterson indicated these funds could also be used for the airport terminal where federal grants do not pay 90%. He related that it is unlikely the City would ever find the local funding without having some new source of money.
    Mr. Campbell said he would still like to see the terminal upgraded first. Mr. Patterson explained that the plan would come back to the Council before it is submitted to the FAA.
    Mr. Campbell made the motion that staff be directed to initiate the preparation of an implementation plan for Council review and approval. The motion was seconded by Mr. Janku and approved unanimously by voice vote.

G)     Mexico Gravel Road Sewer District
    Mr. Patterson indicated this report is a result of several years of frustration on staff's part to try to provide sewers to areas that are currently without City service. He explained the reason for the problem is that by making assessments for the total cost of the sewer, the project becomes very expensive in the more remote areas of the community. He said it results in tax bills that residents have a difficult time affording.
    Mr. Patterson reported a few years ago, the Council adopted a policy to deal with this situation for undeveloped land, but it did not address areas where there are single homes on large lots that would be assessed very large tax bills. He indicated it is staff's suggestion to do something similar with the tax bill on developed property to the extent that the maximum tax bill will be set at $5,000 until the property is either divided or expanded in use. When that occurs, an additional charge could be assessed until such time the entire tax bill is paid. He said it would allow a single family residence to continue to exist, and even allow the property to be sold for another single family residential use without imposing the remainder of the tax bill, similar to the policy the City has on undeveloped property. In the event there is development, it would require an additional assessment to be paid.
    Mr. Campbell asked about the additional assessment. Mr. Patterson explained the proposal for the initial maximum assessment to be $5,000, and the assessment for each additional division to be $5,000 or the balance of the tax bill, whichever is lesser.
    Mr. Janku asked if there is a cap for every lot. Mr. Patterson said there would be an opportunity each time one is brought forward for a public hearing because at that point staff would be able to identify what the City's responsibility would be, what the tax bills would be assessed at, and what the City's potential liability would be in the future. It was ascertained that this proposal would only apply to developed tracts. Mr. Patterson said a tract currently undeveloped would be liable for the entire tax bill if it is sold, rezoned, or platted
    Mrs. Crockett noted this area on Mexico Gravel Road was annexed in the late 60's and residents are still on alternative sewers. She commented this allows an opportunity to provide City sewer -- which the residents well-deserve. After the sewer system is installed, she remarked the road needs to be improved.
    Mrs. Crockett made the motion that staff be directed to establish sewer districts for the two areas on Mexico Gravel Road, and to prepare an ordinance limiting the initial tax bill assessments to $5,000 per parcel as outlined in the report. The motion was seconded by Ms. Crayton and approved unanimously by voice vote.
 

H)     Garth Avenue from Thurman Street - Parking Restriction
    Mr. Beck explained this is an unimproved roadway that is being engineered to bring it up to improved standards. He said the road is only about 20 feet wide with no room for parking on it. The recommendation was to have parking removed until the new roadway is built.
    Mr. Janku remarked that this street was platted before the policy went into effect limiting access to collector streets, so there are a few new houses being built with direct driveways. In addition, there are potentially two more instances of such. With people parking on the street, Mr. Janku commented it could be a major safety hazard.
    Mr. Janku made the motion that the staff be directed to prepare an ordinance prohibiting parking on both sides of Garth Avenue between Thurman and Blue Ridge Road. The motion was seconded by Mr. Campbell and approved unanimously by voice vote.
 

I)     Red Light Enforcement with Intersection Camera
    Chief Boehm noted that a previous report outlined how this technology could be implemented. Since that time, he indicated staff has contacted MoDOT to determine what issues might arise both with potential legal problems and also with the fact the cameras would be mainly installed on state maintained roadways. Chief Boehm reported that staff found there are a number of obstacles to the implementation of such, and that MoDOT, at this time, would be opposed to having this type of enforcement on state maintained intersections. He noted primarily all of the intersections where there are high accident rates are maintained by MoDOT.
    Mayor Hindman commented that he had heard that the Insurance Institute recently released a report relating to this issue. He related that the insurance companies very highly recommend this type of enforcement. They are convinced with their own statistics that these cameras have a dramatic impact on intersection accidents. Mayor Hindman found it interesting that the Highway Department is reluctant to allow for the installation of the cameras, and he suggested that this might be something the City should be interested in lobbying for -- getting the statutes set-up so this could become a viable option. He believed the City could work in concert with the insurance companies who feel this to be a very effective measure. Mr. Janku concurred with the Mayor.
 

J)     Adopt a Spot Beautification Policy Revision
    Ms. Nutter explained that this policy would reflect a greater emphasis on community entrance corridors and getting those areas landscaped by providing more money for those spots. She explained the other element of the plan to be an opportunity to contract with an outside vendor so the work can be done in a timely manner while also lessening staff time.
    Mr. Coffman asked about the primary difference between this policy and the current policy. Ms. Nutter explained that the current policy has no specific dollar amount associated with it. In the past, she said the work has been done on a percentage basis. This revision would clarify as to how the City is going to participate in each project.
    Mayor Hindman asked if the cost of the sites were becoming prohibitive as a result of the old policy. Ms. Nutter indicated that was not necessarily the case; however, this revision will encourage more partnership with the community and refocuses on priority areas. Mayor Hindman was concerned about the City's funding for certain sites being limited to an expenditure of no more than $4,000. He wondered if we would be taking too much incentive out of the program. Ms. Nutter explained that the $4,000 figure came from an historical figure by reviewing past projects. She indicated that if a project came forth exceeding that cap, staff would certainly ask for Council recommendation and approval of it.
    Mayor Hindman made the motion that the staff be directed to prepare legislation reflecting the policies. The motion was seconded by Mr. Campbell and approved unanimously by voice vote.
 

BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
    None.
 

COMMENTS OF COUNCIL, STAFF, AND PUBLIC
    Mayor Hindman commented that the Council had been made aware that the term of the Municipal Judge will expire in October.
    Mayor Hindman made the motion that the staff be directed to prepare a resolution for the next Council meeting calling for the reappointment of the Municipal Judge. The motion was seconded by Mr. Janku and approved unanimously by voice vote.
    Mayor Hindman indicated at the pre-Council dinner, they discussed the bill that had been introduced calling for an election on a local parks sales tax. It was ascertained that the Council wanted to make sure a public hearing in connection with the proposal would be scheduled and that it be advertised.
    Mr. Janku made the motion that B259-00 be scheduled for a public hearing at the August 21, 2000, Council meeting and that it be advertised as such. The motion was seconded by Mrs. Crockett and approved unanimously by voice vote.
    Regarding Adopt a Spots, Mr. Coffman commented that he had received a request about the Broadway and Old 63 triangle. He asked where it stood in the planning process. Mr. Patterson replied that there is a design for it as well as a cost estimate which staff is prepared to bring forward when an adopter is found.
    Mr. Coffman reported that Tom Mendenhall offered to adopt the median to the west of Old 63 and Stadium. Mr. Patterson explained that this is one intersection the state is extremely reluctant to allow landscaping in as they park their equipment there when they are working on the intersection. He indicated staff could make another request for such if the Council desires. Mr. Coffman asked the staff to look into it again.
    Mr. Coffman asked for a report on the need for a stop sign at the intersection of Audubon and Meadowlark. He noted traffic in this area has increased somewhat since the traffic light was installed at East Pointe.
    Mr. Campbell explained that many years ago a policy was established stipulating the location of primary and collector streets. He said one of those streets designated 30 years ago was Rollins. Mr. Campbell reported this neighborhood has seen a great deal of growth in recent years with more to come. He noted with these changes and growth, the neighborhood is experiencing serious problems with vehicular speeding and cut through traffic. He believed the City is in a unique opportunity to begin the planning process for not just a single street, but rather an entire area.
    Mr. Campbell stated as staff begins the planning process for Rollins Street, this should include methods to prevent cut through traffic and speeding. He reported the plan should also encompass the same on adjacent streets in the area. Mr. Campbell proposed that staff review the traffic patterns in the area from Scott Boulevard to Broadway to Fairview School as a total package. He noted the need for traffic calming devices and other things in addition to the construction of Rollins. He noted that traffic calming devices are quite popular now and that 24 requests are currently on a list in the Public Works Department.
    Mr. Campbell made the motion that staff be directed to look at the traffic in the area of Scott to Broadway to Fairview to Fairview School as a total package and come back with recommendations of how this project could be done as a unit rather than just the construction of a street. The motion was seconded by Mr. Janku and approved unanimously by voice vote.
    In conjunction with the new construction of Rollins, Mr. Beck said this project would not have to be prioritized with the other requests for traffic calming.
    Mr. Campbell noted that there is a planning committee that has been working in the neighborhood and they would welcome input from anyone interested in participating in the planning group.
    Mrs. Crockett asked when the Route B project was scheduled to be completed. Mr. Patterson thought it was scheduled to be finished any time now, but they had run into problems related to the relocation of utilities. The last he heard, the project was scheduled for completion within the next six to eight weeks. Mrs. Crockett remarked the businesses in this area are losing customers due to this ongoing project. Mayor Hindman noted that Route B is not a City project, but a State Highway Department project. Mrs. Crockett commented that the Brown Station Road project, which is also in the area, is a City project. Mr. Patterson believed the Brown Station Road project would be finished about the same time as the Route B project.
    Mr. Janku asked about storm protection areas in mobile home parks. He said the staff had reported that it was not a common practice for cities to provide such in many communities, but there were some that have requirements.
    Mr. Janku made the motion that the issue be referred to the appropriate commission for further study to determine if there is something the City should adopt and, if so, how we would go about developing standards. The motion was seconded by Mr. Campbell and approved unanimously by voice vote.
    Mr. Janku said he had previously spoke about the concerns of a constituent regarding the problem of mulch sites and illegal dumping. He said this person complies with the law and feels he is being put at a disadvantage because his competitors do not comply. He asked for further information on what could be done to enhance enforcement of the rules.
    Regarding landscaping, Mr. Janku noted staff is working on a landscaping plan for North Providence. He asked whether Hickman High School, could be asked to participate as an adopter, specifically the Key Club. He had heard there might be an interest in them helping adopt some landscaping adjacent to the school.
    Fred Parry, 709 W. Broadway, spoke as President of the Boone County Citizens for Good Government. He explained that he had sent the Council a letter a few weeks ago outlining a suggestion they had regarding a collaborative effort between the City of Columbia and the County of Boone to pursue a joint sales tax that would fund public safety projects in the community. Primarily, the funding would be used for additional Police Officers for the Columbia Police Department and the Boone County Sheriff's Department, as well as the expansion of the Boone County Jail. Realizing the City cannot put a law enforcement sales tax on the ballot, Mr. Parry encouraged the Council to communicate with the County in order to get such a measure put on the November ballot. He said the group would like to see the Council put forth some type of motion that would allow Mr. Beck and the Mayor to continue their conversations with the County relating to this issue.
    Stacy Glover, 3405 Kunlun Drive, spoke on behalf of concerned home owners on Smokey Mountain Court and Kunlun Drive. She reported residents are concerned about the volume as well as the speed of traffic traveling through their neighborhood on a daily basis. Approximately 20 people stood in support of Ms. Glover's comments. Ms. Glover thanked the Council for approving the motion to include this area in the Rollins Road extension project. She outlined the resident's requests as follows: blocking the cut through from Rothwell Heights to Broadway Farms at Faurot and Smokey Mountain Court, and that the City recommend prompt attention to exploring traffic calming devices.
    John Clark, 403 N. Ninth, asked about the current property tax cap. Regarding Route B, he asked about the status of the plans for getting traffic off of Route B and down onto Business Loop 70 East and College. He understood that the one street might not be adequate. Mr. Clark said he has been asked about people parking semi-trucks on residential streets. He encouraged the Council to publicly request the information he just mentioned.
    Henry Lane, 1816 E. Broadway, advocated that the Council work out an arrangement whereby if the City purchases the Stephens Lake property, that it be turned over to a private enterprise so it would be subject to property taxes to help make-up the shortfall the School District is facing. Mr. Lane also reminded everyone to vote tomorrow.
    Mark Pulliam, 3502 Kunlun Drive, in relation to the Rollins Road project, stated that residents are not as interested in reducing the number of cars through their neighborhoods as they are in reducing the speed of the cars. He remarked that residents would do whatever they can to help alleviate the situation.
    Regarding Mr. Parry's comments, Mayor Hindman noted that the City is negotiating with the County on the prospect of a joint ballot issue, as well as determining the appropriate amount of new officers that are needed by the City.
    The meeting adjourned at 8:55 p.m.

                                                                                        Respectfully submitted,

                                                                                        Penny St. Romaine
                                                                                        City Clerk