HomeMy WebLinkAbout1997-01-21city council minutesBook 38
REGULAR MEETING
JANUARY 21, 1997
7:30 P.M.
The Meeting was called to order by Mayor Winder.
The Mayor requested that everyone stand for the Pledge of
Allegiance and asked one of the Boy Scouts from Troop No.
299 to lead the Pledge.
The Roll of the City Council was called with the
following members present: Houchins, Evans, Earl,
Langan, and Wells. Absent: Nancolas.
(ADDITIONS OR DELETIONS TO THE AGENDA)
Mayor winder asked if there were any additions or
deletions to be made to the prepared Agenda at this time.
It was MOVED by Houchins, SECONDED by Langan to remove
Item No. three from the Consent Calendar and move it down
to the second item under Old Business and to place Items
seven through ten under New Business as the first items
under New Business beginning with IA.
Roll call vote. Those voting yes: Houchins, Evans,
Earl, Langan, and wells. Those voting no: none. Absent
and not voting: Nancolas.
MOTION CARRIED
(AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION)
The Mayor asked if there was anyone in the audience who
cared to speak to the City Council on a matter that was
not included on the prepared Agenda.
Mr. Greg Ferrell was recognized by the Mayor. He
explained that he had a house fire on January 12th and
was here to publicly thank the Fire Department. In
addition, he expressed his concern as to the number of
Firefighters employed at the Caldwell Fire Department.
He was told that in 1978, the City Council took two
people off each shift which would mean six people were
taken off the payroll. Since then, they have never
replaced them. Mr. Ferrell further stated that he was
here to make a plea to hire six firemen and have them on
line by July. The City needs more Firefighters. The
Police Department has fifty employees with the Fire
Department having only twenty -one employees to fight a
fire.
Mayor Winder thanked him for his comments and informed
him that the City Council has been struggling with this
problem for some time. He explained that they were
considering asking the citizens for additional funds by
holding an override election. At this time, the money
was just not in the budget. As yet, the City Council
would not agree to this decision.
Mr. Ferrell also pointed out that business owners in town
have shown their support in an effort to hire more
Firefighters. It was also noted that past City Council
Members were at fault in not trying to keep up with the
pace.
Councilman Evans commented that it was important to note
that if an override was approved, the City would have to
hold another override election in two years. That was one
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of the reasons the City Council felt the override was not
the way to proceed. Councilwoman Earl further stated
that the Finance Committee has been communicating with
the Mayor and looking toward next year's budget,
prioritizing, and seeing where the funds could come from.
They would continue working on the problem with the
Mayor.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Mayor Winder presented the following items on the Consent
Calendar for Council consideration:
1. Dispense with the reading of the minutes of the
Regular City Council Meeting of January 6, 1997, and the
Special City Council Meeting of January 15, 1997, and
approve as written;
2. Accept the minutes of the Caldwell Golf Board
Meeting of November 12, 1996, and the Caldwell Industrial
Airport Meeting of January 9, 1997;
3. Accept a deed from Blaine Harper and Helen
Cornell for right -of -way located on the East side of
Montana Avenue North of Beech Street: Accept an easement
from Blaine Harper and Helen Cornell to give City access
to an existing sewer line that runs parallel with and
East of Montana Avenue: Approve a Public Improvements
Deferral Agreement with Blaine Harper and Helen Cornell
which defers the construction of curb, gutter, sidewalks
and street widening for property frontage along Montana
Avenue;
4. Approve that a Notice of Award be issued to J.
S. Construction, the low bidder, to construct a security
gate at the Caldwell Industrial Airport;
5. Accept a right of way deed from the Grand Lodge
of Idaho, I.O.O.F., for right -of -way to straighten the
curve on 16th Avenue across from Feller Trucking;
6. Accept the bid from Central Paving for the
Denver -Elgin Street L.I.D. 96 -2 Project;
7. .Accept the bid of Woody's Tree Service for
L.I.D. 95 -5 Tree Removal;
8. Approve the application for a new Taxicab
License from James Turvey who was buying Caldwell City
Cab. Approval was obtained from the City Attorney and
the Chief of Police as required by Code.
MOVED by Earl, SECONDED by Houchins to approve the
Consent Calendar as modified.
Roll call vote. Those voting yes: Earl, Langan, Wells,
Houchins, and Evans. Those voting no: none. Absent and
not voting: Nancolas.
MOTION CARRIED
OLD BUSINESS
(REPORT ON THE MARILYN MANSON CONCERT)
Mayor Winder reported that the Concert was held on the
12th of January at the Events Center. There were no
major problems and he was proud of the manner in which
City employees handled that issue. There was a great
deal of input from the public; some helpful and some was
not. The Police and Fire Departments went forward and
arrived at conclusions that he believed were in the long
range best interest to the community. They did not allow
anyone to perform in a manner that was illegal or immoral
or otherwise unlawful. They were told up front and
informed that if they broke the law, they would be
arrested. The Mayor further stated that he hoped the
public would have a better understanding in the future of
what your employees were going to do for you.
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Troy Agema was recognized by the Mayor and spoke briefly
about the Concert and distributed some suggestions to the
City Council and Mayor with regard to the policy at the
Events Center. The Mayor also informed him that rentals
were frozen at the Center and no additional bookings
accepted through March 20th except for those already in
place. A committee of seven people will study this issue
and will report back through the Community Services Board
to the City Council regarding their recommendation. The
City Attorney was requested to draft the judicial rulings
that have occurred regarding how a community that has a
public facility can manage that facility. This was given
to them tonight and will be made available to the
Committee.
Page 11
(APPROVE AN EASEMENT TO LEROY INGLIS FOR BRIDGE AT PURPLE SAGE GOLF
COURSE)
Mayor Winder informed Council that Councilwoman Earl
would not be taking part in this discussion as she had a
conflict of interest.
The Mayor continued stating that this matter was dealing
with a bridge across the canal at Purple Sage Golf Course
so that people who live in the subdivision under
development will have access to the Golf Course. This
was not a new precedent.
Councilman Langan further explained that the Council
discussed this issue at the last City Council Meeting and
delayed action until this time based on some input from
the Golf Board and the Engineering Department. Mr.
Langan stated that he did attend the Golf Board Meeting
and they unanimously approved having City Council moving
forward.
It was also noted that the Engineering Department also
reviewed the easement and recommended approval.
MOVED by Langan, SECONDED by Houchins to approve the
easement to LeRoy Inglis for bridge at Purple Sage Golf
Course.
Roll call vote. Those voting yes: Langan, Wells,
Houchins, and Evans. Abstain: Earl. Those voting no:
none. Absent and not voting: Nancolas.
NEW BUSINESS
MOTION CARRIED
(PUBLIC HEARING ON ANNEXATION OF PROPERTY LOCATED ON SOUTH FLORIDA)
Mayor Winder stated that Items 7 through 10 were moved up
to be considered as the first item under New Business.
Those items included a Public Hearing on annexation, zone
change, Comprehensive Plan designation, and a hearing on
a Special Use Permit.
- A group of homeowners opposing this matter obtained an
Attorney, Bill Gigray, III, who wrote a letter to the
City Council and Mayor informing them of technical items
that he felt were wrong with the process when heard by
the Planning and Zoning Commission. The letter was
reviewed by the City Attorney and he has been requested
to present his observations at this time.
Richard Harris, Attorney at Law, stated that last Friday
Mr, Christopher delivered to him a packet of documents.
He reviewed those papers and in his view, the matter
needs to be remanded back to the Planning and zoning
Commission to conduct a new hearing. Mr. Harris further
stated that he intended to provide the Commission with a
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letter of instruction as to what they need to do in order
to arrive at a clearly legal decision and then he would
presume it would come back to the City Council. In any
event, he did think the proceedings were somewhat
irregular. He would recommend that the City Council
remand it to the Commission and he would provide the
Commission with a letter of instruction as to how they
were to conduct the next hearing.
The Mayor said that the issue we have here was that the
property owners out there, the people who want to do this
development, have legal rights the same as you folks who
were opposed to it. They have not been given full accord
by the Planning and Zoning Commission. The procedures of
the Planning and Zoning Commission followed were, in some
cases, not proper and we simply need to send it back to
the Commission. I did also mention earlier that there
was an item on the Agenda, the last item under New
business, which calls for a discussion of the Planning
and Zoning Commission. We intend to discuss the entire
matter of the Planning and Zoning Commission. There was
no law that says we have to have one. However, we do
have to provide that kind of service and if it was not
done by the Planning and Zoning Commission, then the
Governing Body was required by law to do that. That
would mean that the City Council would have to take that
on. That issue will be discussed later. A motion from
the City Council to remand this matter for further
consideration was needed at this time.
Susan Mattos, an Attorney licensed to practice law in the
State of Idaho with offices in Star, was recognized by
the Mayor. Ms. Mattos stated that she represented the
applicant and she was certainly aware of the issues which
were raised in her letter of appeal to the City Council.
There were some major irregularities with what happened.
On behalf of her client, she said she would have to
express a concern that even with this remand, that these
folks get a fair and honest treatment of this particular
matter before the Commission. She would hope that in the
letter of instruction, there was a strong recommendation
that this not only be handled procedurally correctly, but
there be a serious consideration of this evidence. it
was not seriously considered at the last Hearing. Ms.
Mattos further stated that she had a second concern which
was with regard to scheduling. If, in fact, there was a
determination to eliminate the Planning Commission, the
problem would be when it would come back before the City
Council. She was heading into trial and was also going
to be out of State for part of February. Therefore,
there would be a request that it be scheduled as soon as
possible and that they select a date certain tonight.
Then the people here including the applicant would have
a date certain and if arrangements could be made tonight
for a facility sufficient to hold those who wish to be
heard and perhaps, have some efficiency in this matter.
Mayor Winder commented that he would like to remind the
public that a Public Hearing was not a debating society.
It was an opportunity for information, for legal issues
to be raised with the City Councils We were dealing with
an issue that was defined by the courts as a Quasi
Judicial proceedings. It requires that people who
participate swear or affirm that the information they
were going to provide was the truth and honest and that
they will not provide irrelevant, immaterial or
repetitious testimony. Once a concern was expressed, it
was on the record. He didn't want another hundred people
getting up and saying the same thing. If statements were
made, they need to backed up with facts and not just
opinions. As we go through this process, that would be
the kind of process they would hold everyone to. It was
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Page 13
a process that the courts say has to be followed in order
to have a fair hearing, one that protects the property
rights of the people who were involved in trying to do
the development and then those of you who were property
owners that would be impacted by the result. It was just
a matter of fairness.
William F. Gigray, III, Attorney at Law, was recognized.
Mr. Gigray clarified that he represented approximately
forty property owners that were protestants for the
application that was before the Council. He filed a pre -
hearing motion which the Mayor alluded to and he believed
that the Mayor and Council understood what their position
was as the brief was filed in support of it. Mr. Gigray
further said that he agreed with the recommendation of
the City Attorney that it does need to be remanded. It
was their position that the most serious question was the
lack of Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law and
recommendations of the Planning and Zoning Commission
that needs to be a stand alone document addressing all of
the relevant issues of the application and most seriously
to the issue to the zoning designation, the Comprehensive
Plan change, and the Special Use Permit Application and
probably less serious, the annexation. we also believe
that there were insufficiencies in that the true owner of
the property has not joined in the application which we
feel he was legally required to do. The remand will
allow for those matters to be taken care of.
In addition, Mr. Gigray noted that with regard to the
matter of scheduling, it would probably be under the
control of the Planning and Zoning Commission. The
remand would go to them and they would have to take it up
at that time. That will be a matter of the City's Bylaws
and how it was set up.
Mayor winder stated that the recommendation from the City
Attorney was to remand this matter for further
consideration by the Planning and Zoning Commission or
such other body that has the authority to handle the
matter.
MOVED by Houchins, SECONDED by Evans to remand this
matter for further consideration by the Planning and
Zoning Commission as recommended by the City Attorney.
Councilwoman Earl noted that she would be abstaining from
voting as she had a conflict of interest.
Roll call vote. Those votin
Langan, and Wells. Abstain:
none. Absent and not voting:
The Mayor requested a brief recess
reconvened at 8:15 p.m.
g yes: Houchins, Evans,
Earl. Those voting no:
Nancolas.
MOTION CARRIED
at 8:00 p.m. The Meeting was
(PRESENTATION OF THE 1996 FISCAL YEAR AUDIT REPORT)
Bruce Muir, a member of the Audit Committee, was
recognized by the Mayor. Mr. Muir reported that the
Audit Committee has reviewed the information presented by
the auditing firm of Salukoff, Lindstrom and Company of
Boise. Questions were asked and they had the opportunity
to receive their explanations. At this time, the Audit
Committee would present to the City Council that the
audit appears to be in full accordance with the interest
of the City of Caldwell and would recommend that the City
Council accept the audit as presented.
Book 38
Page 14
MOVED by Earl, SECONDED by Langan that the City Council
accept the Audit Report for the fiscal year 1996.
Councilwoman Earl commented that she would like to
publicly thank the Audit Committee, the firm of Balukoff,
Lindstrom and Company, and the Finance Director, Evee
Kiler.
Roll call vote. Those voting yes: Earl, Langan, Wells,
Houchins, and Evans. Those voting no: none. Absent and
not voting: Nancolas.
MOTION CARRIED
(REAPPOINTMENT OF THE CITY ATTORNEY FOR 1997)
The Mayor stated that the next item on the Agenda was the
reappointment of Richard Harris as the City Attorney for
1997. Mr. Harris has been the City Attorney for more
than a year and performed duties requested in a credible
manner. As a result, he was asking the City Council to
reaffirm him for a one year appointment under basically
the same terms and conditions that existed for the past
year.
MOVED by Evans, SECONDED by Earl to reappoint and approve
the contract for Mr. Harris as the City Attorney for the
period of January 1, 1997, to December 31, 1997.
Roll call vote. Those voting yes: Evans, Earl, Langan,
Wells, and Houchins. Those voting no: none. Absent and
not voting: Nancolas.
MOTION CARRIED
(APPOINTMENTS TO THE VARIOUS BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS FOR THE NEW
YEAR)
Mayor Winder recommended to the City Council the following
appointments and reappointments and asked for their approval:
AIRPORT
Reappoint Budd Kehne 1/1/97 - 12/31/00
COMMUNITY SERVICES
Reappoint Marlen Luff 1/1/97 - 12/31/00
Reappoint Tony DeMark 1/1/97 - 12/31/00
Appoint Al Salazar to fill unexpired term of
Dwight Comfort to 12/31/99
Appoint Ron McWilliams to fill unexpired term
of Jeanette Callsen to 12/31/99
GOLF BOARD
Reappoint Pete Cowles 1/1/97 - 12/31/00
HOUSING AUTHORITY
Reappointment of David Cornwell 1/1/97 -
12/31/01
HISTORIC PRESERVATION
Appoint Sylvia Tag 1/1/97 - 12/31/99 to
succeed Carol Burbank
Appoint Ed Allen 1/1/97 - 12/31/99 to
succeed Roy Payne
Reappointment Bill Gigray 1/1/97 - 12/31/99
LIBRARY BOARD
Durand Marcus 1/1/97 - 12/31/01 to replace
Josephine Miller
SENIOR CITIZEN CENTER COMMISSION
Appoint Ray Keck 1/1/97 - 12/31/99
Appoint Bob Trunnell 1/1/97 - 12/31/99
Reappoint Leonard "Pete" Hanold 1/1/97 - 12/31/99
It was MOVED by Houchins, SECONDED by Earl to approve the
appointments and reappointments as recommended by the
Mayor.
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Councilman Langan complimented those who were willing to
volunteer to serve on these Board and Commissions. He
also stated that he would encourage them to attend their
meetings regularly.
Mayor Winder noted that most of the groups have a policy
stating that if they miss three consecutive meetings,
they were to be replaced.
Roll call vote. Those voting yes: Houchins, Evans,
Earl, Langan, and Wells. Those voting no: none. Absent
and not voting: Nancolas.
MOTION CARRIED
(CITY COUNCIL ASSIGNMENTS FOR THE YEAR 1997)
The Mayor presented them as follows:
Jerry Langan - Community Services Advisory Board and
Planning and Zoning Commission.
Garret Nancolas -- Airport Commission and Golf Board.
Rita Earl - Finance Committee and Community Services
Advisory Board.
Dan Evans - Planning and Zoning Commission and
Finance Committee.
Rick Wells - Housing Authority and Historic
Preservation Commission.
Chuck Houchins - Library Board and Senior Citizens
Center Commission.
(DISCUSSION WITH IDA -ORE PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT)
Mayor Winder informed Council that Phil Choate, the
Executive Director for Ida -Ore Planning and Development,
was in attendance and asked if he could address the
Council at this time.
Mr. Choate informed Council that he was present
representing Ida -Ore tonight to speak about the progress
they were making on the small business incubator called
the Center for Entrepreneurial and Economic Development
in Caldwell. They have made progress this first year
with the location of three firms and the prospect of a
fourth firm. In addition, they have two tenant
applications pending and just about filled up office
space that was available. The prospect for exceeding
seventy percent occupancy lies with a new tenant
applicant that will be considered before the end of next
month. They were working on their application now and if
the firm grows as projected, we will more than exceed the
job creation objectives originally set. Mr. Choate
reported further that the food processing has begun
operation and some of the products were showing up in the
local grocery stores.
Mr. Choate stated that he did present to the Council
copies of a draft proposal concerning a request to the
Rural Development Administration of U.S.D.A. They have
an application that they would like to submit on the
City's behalf to further support the small business
incubator for $75,000. The matching funds would come out
of the incubator itself and there would be no additional
cost to the City. You would essentially be asked to
serve as the grant applicant and grant administrator and
working in partnership with Ida -Ore in implementing the
project. We were soliciting your support for this
application.
MOVED by Houchins, SECONDED by Langan that the City
Council give direction to the Mayor and his Staff to move
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forward so that all of the necessary papers were filed in
time for this Grant in cooperation with Ida --Ore.
Roll call vote. Those voting yes: Houchins, Evans,
Earl, Langan, and Wells. Those voting no: none. Absent
and not voting: Nancolas.
MOTION CARRIED
Page 16
(PUBLIC HEARING FOR A ZONE CHANGE AND COMPREHENSIVE PLAN MAP
AMENDMENT ON SOUTH TENTH SOUTH OF USTICK REQUESTED BY J.B. FARMS)
Mayor Winder introduced this Public Hearing stating that
the applicant was J.B. Farms represented by Harmon
Johnson and Don Brandt located at 203 11th Avenue South
in Nampa. This was the time and place set for the Public
Hearing on the zone change and the Comprehensive Plan map
amendment request. Anyone desiring to testify must sign
up on the appropriate sign -up sheet either in favor or
against. The request was for a zone change from R -1,
Single Family Residential to R -3, Multi - family
Residential and a Comprehensive Plan Map change to
reflect that zone change. The applicable sections of the
City Code were the Zoning Ordinance, Sections 10- 01-03,
10- 01 -07, and 10 -03 -03 and the Comprehensive Plan, Pages
21 - 23.
The Mayor further explained the procedure for holding a
Public Hearing after which he opened the Public Hearing
and asked the City Clerk to swear in those who were
signed to testify. Council determined that they would
not limit the time allowed for each participant.
The applicant, Don Brandt, 1811 West Greenhurst in Nampa
spoke in favor of this zone change and Comprehensive Plan
map amendment on South Tenth south of Ustick requested by
J. B. Farms. Mr. Brandt stated that their intended use
was assisted living or multi - family and would require a
Conditional Use Permit under the Commercial use they
originally applied for. At the City's request, it was
sent back to the Commission to have a Comprehensive Plan
change and rezone to R -3 which would fit the use. Mr.
Brandt briefly explained the project and answered several
questions from the City Council.
Peggy Miller, 616 East Ross Lane, and Bruce Allcott, 906
East Ustick Road, spoke in opposition to the request.
There was considerable discussion with regard to the uses
of this property in the future and the uses in a R -3
zone, buffer zones, and contract zoning. The tape will
be on file in the Office of the City Clerk for six months
and available for anyone caring to review it.
At the conclusion of the testimony, the Mayor asked Mr.
Christopher, the Assistant Planner, to present the Staff
Report.
Mr. Christopher stated that he was bringing before the
City Council a Comprehensive Plan amendment and a zone
change request. The applicant was J.B. Farms,
represented by Harmon Johnson and-'Don Brandt. The site
was located approximately nine hundred feet south of
Ustick Road and on the east side of Tenth Avenue. The
facts pertaining to this request were that the legal
notification requirements were met and were part of the
file, Comprehensive Plan designation was currently Low
Density Residential, the property was currently zoned R-
1, Single Family Residential, the Comprehensive Plan
zoning ordinance sections have been identified in the
Staff Report. The Planning and Zoning Commission met on
October 17, 1996, to hear this request. The Commission
determined that a zoning of R -3 was appropriate for this
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location and Comprehensive Plan Map amendment to High
Density Residential was included in this request. The
Commission was forwarding the recommendation to the City
Council for approval of the zone change from R -1 to R -3
and a Comprehensive Plan Map amendment from Low Density
Residential to High Density Residential for J.B. Farms.
A sample Ordinance and Resolution were provided for in
the Council's packets.
_.. In addition and in answer to Councilwoman Earl's
question, Mr. Christopher stated that 90 to 95% of all R-
3 property in the City of Caldwell was already developed.
There were no large parcels available.
Mayor Winder asked if there was any rebuttal at this
time. Mr. Brandt commented briefly with regard to the
development of the property and the uses allowed and the
buffering.
Since there was no one else to testify, the Mayor noted
that the evidence to be included in the record was the
Staff Report and testimony.
MOVED by Earl, SECONDED by Evans that those two items be
included as a part of the record.
Roll call vote. Those voting yes: Earl, Langan, Wells,
Houchins, and Evans. Those voting no: none. Absent and
not voting: Nancolas.
MOTION CARRIED
At the request of the Mayor, the Findings of Fact and
Conclusions of Law were outlined by the City Council as
follows: Councilman Evans stated that the change from R-
1 Single Family to R -3 Multi - Family High Density
Residential designation prevents a certain amount of
urban sprawl; the property was purchased in 1993 and
since then many changes have occurred throughout Caldwell
including this area's property which was now scheduled to
receive City services so that it can finally be
developed; Idaho Law does not provide for contract
zoning; legal notification requirements have been met and
were a part of this file; the Comprehensive Plan
designation for Low Density Residential has been noted;
the property presently was zoned R -1 Single Family
Residential; the parcel that was being considered
consists of approximately 2.7 acres; South Tenth Avenue
was classified as a minor arterial on the Caldwell
Functional Street Classification Map; and all
notifications that were required to hold this Public
Hearing were met.
Councilwoman Earl added: The Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Sections, pages 21 - 23 recognizes and pertains to this
being rezoned; in addition to providing buffering in R -3
Zone, it also provides an area for multi - family type uses
going from a four plex on up; it was the City's
responsibility to provide varied areas within the City
boundaries to be able to accommodate people of varying
incomes and lifestyles to make sure they have appropriate
housing; the following sections of the Zoning Ordinance
pertain to and support the application; Section 10- 01 -03,
Section 10- 01 -07, and Section 10- 03 -03.
Councilman Langan added: The City Council took input
during this hearing from the developer in favor of the
proposal and from citizens in opposition to the zone
change.
Page 17
Conclusions of Law: Councilwoman Earl stated that based
on the Findings that have just been presented and the
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supporting sections of the Comprehensive Plan Land Use
Section and the Zoning Ordinance, that it was appropriate
to approve the rezoning of this property from R -1 to R -3
Councilman Langan added: The City Council was authorized
by Code to rezone this property from R -1 to R -3.
Councilwoman Earl further noted: This was a Quasi -
Judicial matter on the part of the City Council and. not
a legislative one and that we have met all of the
requirements for that.
Councilman Langan: This Public Hearing was advertised as
was indicated in the Findings of Fact and done according
to Code.
MOVED by Earl, SECONDED by Evans to accept the Findings
of Fact and the Conclusions of Law as presented.
Roll call vote. Those voting yes: Earl, Langan, Wells,
Houchins, and Evans. Those voting no: none. Absent and
not voting: Nancolas.
MOTION CARRIED
Again, the Mayor reviewed what was under consideration at
this time which included a zone change from R -1 to R -3
and a Comprehensive Plan Map amendment change.
MOVED by Houchins, SECONDED by Earl to close the Public
Hearing.
Councilwoman Earl commented that she has been working
with the City since about 1990 with the Comprehensive
Plan. One of the issues that has always come up was the
lack of zoning for R -3 uses within the community. She
believed that it was very important that the City take
more of a responsibility in providing those areas for the
public. The Comprehensive Plan does state that single
family residential uses usually take care of themselves.
It was the medium and high density that need the support
and consideration of the Planning and Zoning Commission
and the City Council. There were no areas in the City
that someone can come in and put a multi - family type
development. Mrs. Earl further stated that she would ask
Council to recognize this and start working towards
providing those appropriate areas. She also asked. the
City Attorney if the City as the applicant rezones
property, do they have to wait four years before
requesting a rezone and further, was it true that a
property owner always has the right to come in at any
time and request for a rezone. Mr. Harris, the City
Attorney, answered that any time a rezone was made for a
given piece of property, there has to be a six month
waiting period before the next application can be
entertained. He also stated that the City does have a
period of time before they can reapply.
The Mayor also asked the Attorney that if you could only
rezone one parcel every six months, do we have the right
to rezone more than one parcel every six months as long
as we do it at that period. Is that correct? Mr. Harris
stated that this was correct, but if an application was
made to rezone property, you would have to wait six
months before you could make a new application to rezone
that same property.
Roll call vote. Those voting yes: Houchins, Evans,
Earl Langan, and Wells. Those voting no: none. Absent
and not voting: Nancolas.
Page 18
MOTION CARRIED
Book 38 Page 19
The Public Hearing was closed by the Mayor.
(CONSIDERATION OF BILL NO. 1 FOR THE ZONE CHANGE ON SOUTH TENTH)
The Mayor read Bill No. 1 by title only as follows:
AN ORDINANCE CHANGING THE ZONING OF CERTAIN PROPERTY
WITHIN THE CITY OF CALDWELL, IDAHO, FROM R -1 (SINGLE
FAMILY RESIDENTIAL) TO R -3 (MULTI - FAMILY HIGH DENSITY
RESIDENTIAL); DETERMINING THAT SAID CHANGE IN ZONING IS
IN THE BEST INTEREST OF THE CITY OF CALDWELL, IDAHO;
INSTRUCTING THE PLANNING AND ZONING DIRECTOR TO DESIGNATE
SAID PROPERTY AS R -3 ON THE OFFICIAL ZONING MAP AND
REPEALING ALL LAWS, ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS IN
CONFLICT HEREWITH.
MOVED by Earl, SECONDED by Houchins that this be
considered the first reading of Bill No. 1.
Roll call vote. Those voting yes: Earl, Langan, Wells,
Houchins, and Evans. Those voting no: none. Absent and
not voting: Nancolas.
MOTION CARRIED
Mayor Winder noted that the Resolution for the
Comprehensive Plan change would be considered after Bill
No. 1 was passed.
(RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AMENDMENT TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICE AGREEMENT
AS REQUESTED BY MONTGOMERY- WATSON, INC.)
Mayor Winder explained that this was a proposed Amendment No.
1 to an Agreement for engineering services with Montgomery-
Watson, Inc. who were contracted to prepare a Facility Plan
for the City's Wastewater Treatment Plant. After they
completed about 80% of the work and submitted a preliminary
draft of the plan, the City Engineer requested they place the
project on hold to give him time to review their work in
detail. In November, he contacted Montgomery - Watson again and
informed them of issues he felt needed further investigation
and requested a cost estimate for the additional work. Their
submittal includes requests for cost adjustment for items not
included in the original scope of work and for wage inflation.
The requested adjustment was $23,000. The adjustment appears
to be justified. It was the City Engineer's recommendation to
pass the Resolution authorizing execution of the amendment.
The Resolution was presented by the Mayor as follows:
BE IT THEREBY RESOLVED By the Council of the City of
Caldwell, Idaho, that the Mayor and Clerk of said City
are hereby authorized to execute that certain Amendment,
known as "AMENDMENT NO. 1 ", to that certain Agreement by
and between said City and Montgomery -- Watson Americas,
Inc., dated June 2, 1994, known as "AGREEMENT FOR
ENGINEERING SERVICES TO PREPARE THE CITY OF CALDWELL
WASTEWATER FACILITIES PLAN ", which amendment and
Agreement are attached hereto and made a part hereof, as
if set forth in full.
MOVED by Earl, SECONDED by Langan that the Resolution be
passed as presented by the Mayor to authorize the
execution of an amendment to Professional Service
Agreement as requested by Montgomery- Watson, Inc.
Roll call vote. Those voting yes: Earl, Langan, Wells,
Houchins, and Evans. Those voting no: none. Absent and
not voting: Nancolas.
MOTION CARRIED
Book 38
Page 20
(ACCEPT ASSESSMENT ROLL FOR L.I.D. 95 -4 AND SET THE PROTEST
HEARING)
Mayor Winder stated that the next order of business was
to accept the Assessment Roll for L.I.D. 95 -4 and set the
Protest Hearing. This was a voluntary L.I.D. to cover
costs of sewer and water connection fees. The date for
the Protest Hearing was Monday, February 3, 1997.
MOVED by Houchins, SECONDED by Langan to accept the
Assessment Roll for Local Improvement District 95 -4 and
set the Protest Hearing for February 3, 1997.
Roll call vote. Those voting yes: Houchins, Evans,
Earl, Langan, and Wells. Those voting no: none. Absent
and not voting: Nancolas.
MOTION CARRIED
(SET A DATE FOR AIRPORT MASTER PLAN WORKSHOP)
The Mayor informed Council that the City Engineer has
requested a workshop with regard to the Airport Master
Plan. The suggestion was that this workshop be scheduled
on February 3rd, 1997, at 6:00 p.m. just prior to the
regularly scheduled Council Meeting.
MOVED by Langan, SECONDED by Earl the date of February 3,
1997 at 6:00 p.m. be scheduled as a workshop for the
Airport Master Plan.
Roll call vote. Those voting yes: Langan, Wells,
Houchins, Evans, and Earl. Those voting no: none.
Absent and not voting: Nancolas.
MOTION CARRIED
(RESOLUTION TO AUTHORIZE RENEWAL OF A FARM LEASE AGREEMENT WITH
GEORGE NISHITANI FOR CITY OWNED PROPERTY ADJACENT TO THE CALDWELL
MUNICIPAL WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT)
The Mayor explained that Mr. Nishitani has been leasing
this property adjacent to the Caldwell Municipal
Wastewater Treatment Plant since 1988. It contains 11.5
farmable acres. The lease has been beneficial to both
Mr. Nishitani and the City as he has taken care of the
property by keeping that portion he does not farm clear
of weeds, trash, or junk. The Mayor advised Council that
his recommendation would be to approve this renewal of
the lease.
The Resolution was as follows:
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR AND CITY CLERK TO
EXECUTE THE RENEWAL OF A FARM LEASE BETWEEN THE CITY OF
CALDWELL AND GEORGE NISHITANI
BE IT RESOLVED That the Mayor and City Clerk of the
City of Caldwell, Idaho, be and the same hereby are,
authorized to execute that certain renewal of Farm Lease
Agreement attached hereto and made a part hereof between
the City of Caldwell and George Nishitani for the purpose
of farming City property adjacent to the Caldwell
Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant.
MOVED by Evans, SECONDED by Houchins to pass the
Resolution authorizing the execution of the renewal lease
with George Nishitani.
Roll call vote. Those voting yes: Evans, Earl, Langan,
Wells, and Houchins. Those voting no: none. Absent and
not voting. Nancolas.
Book 38 Page 21
MOTION CARRIED
(RESOLUTION TO APPROVE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH
TOOTHMAN -ORTON FOR AIRPORT PROJECT)
Mayor Winder informed Council that two years ago the City
of Caldwell prepared plans for taxiway rehabilitation at
the Caldwell Industrial Airport We also had a grant
approved for the project from the F.A.A. This was a
continuation of that. The City Engineer recommended to
the City Council and the F.A.A., that Toothman -Orton be
awarded a contract for the proposed work. The proposed
Agreement was available for inspection in his office.
The Resolution was as follows:
BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED, by the Council of the City of
Caldwell, Idaho, that the Mayor and Clerk of said City
are hereby authorized to execute that certain Agreement,
known as "PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING SERVICES AGREEMENT" by
and between said City and Toothman -Orton Engineering
Company, which Agreement is for design, administration
and construction management services for Airport
Improvement Project 3 -16- 0045 -09, conditioned on approval
of the Agreement by the Federal Aviation Agency, and
which Agreement is attached hereto and made a part hereof
as if set forth in full.
MOVED by Houchins, SECONDED by Earl that the Resolution
be passed authorizing the execution of this Agreement
with Toothman -Orton Engineering Company.
Roll call vote. Those voting yes: Houchins, Evans,
Earl, Langan, and Wells. Those voting no: none. Absent
and not voting: Nancolas.
MOTION CARRIED
(DISCUSSION REGARDING THE PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION)
Mayor Winder stated that this item on the Agenda was to
discuss the Planning and Zoning Commission. The Mayor noted
that this has been a long standing issue and he was sorry that
it has gone on so long as it has been very detrimental to the
community. We find that the Commission has made decisions
that were not based on fact, do not follow the proper
procedures to arrive at their conclusions and when it comes to
the Council, they have to send it back to the Commission. It
just was not the right way to do business. If the Commission
was not able to do it's job, they need to ask for help. He
believed the City Council needed to look at this, the public
needed to be involved in this discussion, and those who have
dealt with the Commission need to come forth and tell us what
they think.
This matter was discussed at some length. Councilman
Evans, one of the liaisons to the Planning and Zoning
Commission, presented some thoughts and suggestions with
regard to this matter which included the following: It
was his observation that the Members of the Planning and
Zoning Commission mean to do well and the problem has
been a lack of information that translates over into
knowledge and confidence and a certain level of
expertise. He suggested holding a workshop where the
Commission and Council could talk about the situation and
try to form some definite ideas to help.
The Mayor commented that on two different occasions he
sent the City Attorney to help them with the legal
proceedings including how to hold a public hearing, what
they can base their decisions on, the fact that they were
conducting a Quasi Judicial hearing and cannot let their
opinions enter into the decision, but must base the
Book 38
decision on law and facts. Three outside professionals
came in to meet with them a few months ago and spent a
good deal of time with them. Robert Vasquez met with
them more than once. It was also found that they were
not swearing in the witnesses which was required in a
Quasi Judicial situation. He felt the public was being
damaged and the Commission should be providing the
services the public needs.
Councilman Wells noted that the Commission used to swear
in those requesting to testify but discontinued this
practice when the former Director was hired. Again, the
City Attorney stated that they cannot give testimony
without being under oath.
The discussion continued among the City Council Members
and the Mayor. Councilman Wells noted that he would like
to have some time to study this issue. The Mayor stated
that they do not have to make a determination tonight.
However, there has to be a decision with regard to the
issue on South Florida as to whether it would go back to
Planning and Zoning or come to the City Council. As long
as there was a Commission, the Mayor stated he understood
that it would have to be remanded to them.
The City Attorney informed Council that in the material
Mr. Christopher gave him, he made the determination that
there were irregularities that occurred during the course
of that proceeding which rendered the appeal to the City
Council premature and improper. As long as there was a
Commission, his recommendation to the Council was that
the appeal presently before the Council be remanded so
that the Planning and Zoning Commission can conduct a
hearing in conformance with the legal requirements so
that those irregularities could be corrected. If there
was not a Planning and Zoning Commission, the City
Council would have to act as the Commission.
Mayor Winder also pointed out that the City Council does
have the authority to dissolve the Planning and Zoning
Commission if they choose to do so. They do have to do
it for cause.
After further discussion, several members of the audience
addressed the City Council including the following: Paul
Bull, 2805 Pisces, who briefly commented on the Florida
issue, that the people would like Caldwell to grow
residentially, and that he would be willing to pay
additional taxes. Mr. Bull also stated that he wanted to
go on record that he believed the Planning and Zoning
Commission was doing a fine job. Richard Sumter, 3602
South Florida, stated that he could see a lack of
commitment on the part of the Planning and Zoning
Commission. Harmon Johnson, one of the developers and
partners of J.B. Farms, was recognized and stated that he
would like to go on record as to how much he appreciated
working with the Caldwell Staff. Also, that the times he
has appeared before the Council and the Mayor, he was
treated more than fair and courteous. The only time he
felt he was not treated fairly or not listened to was
from part of the members of the Planning and Zoning
Commission. Others speaking included Terry McCue, 2807
Pisces Drive; Don Brandt; Thelma Carpenter; and Peggy
Miller.
Page 22.
At the conclusion of the discussion, the Mayor informed
Council that they needed to make a decision as to how to
handle the issue on Florida. They need to determine if
it should be remanded back to Planning and Zoning
Commission or whether they do something else..
Book 38
Councilwoman Earl noted that she would be abstaining
totally.
Councilman Houchins inquired that if it was remanded back
to the Commission, could they request that the City
Attorney be present at their meeting. The Mayor stated
that they could remand it and the Attorney could prepare
instructions to the Planning and Zoning Commission on how
to conduct themselves and reach decisions. Mayor Winder
further stated that the Planning and Zoning Commission
has never requested that the City Attorney be present.
MOVED by Langan, SECONDED by Wells to remand the issue on
South Florida back to the Planning and Zoning Commission
and have the Chairperson of the Commission decide up
front whether they want Mr. Harris to be there and what
kind of assistance they might need in the process.
Roll call vote. Those voting yes: Langan, Wells,
Houchins, and Evans. Abstain: Earl. Those voting no:
none. Absent and not voting: Nancolas.
MOTION CARRIED
Mayor Winder asked the Commission to please work with the
Attorney, outline procedures to follow, and do it
legally.
(FINANCIAL REPORT)
Councilwoman Earl reported that the Finance Committee
reviewed current accounts payable in the amount of
$380,778.21 for the period ended January 15, 1997, and a
net payroll of $105,769.74 for the pay period ended
January 4, 1997.
MOVED by Earl, SECONDED by Langan that accounts payable
in the amount of $380,778.21 represented by check numbers
50850 through 51034 and payroll for the amount of
$105,769.74 represented by check numbers 57482 through
57577 and direct deposit stub numbers 4863 through 4951
be accepted, payment approved, and the vouchers filed in
the Office of the City Clerk.
Roll call vote. Those voting yes: Earl, Langan, Wells,
Houchins, and Evans. Those voting no: none. Absent and
not voting: Nancolas.
MOTION CARRIED
(COMMITTEE REPORTS)
Councilman Langan reported that the Golf Board agreed
that all budget considerations will be done during the
budget cycle.
Councilwoman Earl attended the Community Services Board
where they discussed the four plex baseball field out by
Simplot Stadium, the Finance Committee has been working
with the Audit Committee, discussed with the Mayor having
a budget workshop on 7:00 p.m. on February 10th.
It was agreed to this time and the public was welcome.
Councilman Evans attended the Planning and Zoning Meeting
where they had an election of officers. Bill Roos was
the new Chairman, Mike Nachtigall was the vice Chair, and
Sonia Huyck the Secretary.
Councilman Wells reported that the Historic Preservation
Commission was working on lighting for the Depot. Over
Page 23
Book 38
Page 24
fifty percent of the Phase III Project at Farmway Village
was complete.
(MAYOR'S COMMENTS)
Mayor winder stated that as Mayor of the Community for
the past three years, it has been his goal to improve
City Government, involve more people in the City
Government and have you tell us what you want the City
Government be. A strategic planning process was started
in December of 1993 and so far two hundred people in the
community have been willing to take their time and
participate with us in planning what they want their town
to be. The reason we have not gone forward and finished
the plan was because it was not his plan and can't be.
It has to be our plan collectively. All have to
participate in that process. We do need unity in this
Community and a sense of purpose. Please participate as
we need your help.
(ADJOURNMENT)
MOVED by Evans, SECONDED by Earl that since there was no
further business, the meeting was adjourned at 11:15 p.m.
Roll call vote. Those voting yes: Evans, Earl, Langan,
Wells, and Houchins. Those voting no none. Absent and
not voting: Nancolas.
MOTION CARRIED
The next Regular City Council Meeting was on February 3, 1997, at
7 :30 p.m.
APPROVED AS written THIS 3rd DAY OF February , 1997,
ATTEST:
City Cdr