WAPAKONETA CITY COUNCIL JUNE 6, 2016
President Steve Hendersoncalled the meeting to order at 7:30pm on June 6, 2016 at 701 Parlette Court with the following members present: Jim Neumeier, Daniel E. Lee, Bonnie Wurst, Chad Doll, Randy Fisher, Rachel Barber and Dan Graf. Also present were Mayor Tom Stinebaugh,Law Director Dennis Faller and Safety Service Director Chad Scott. There were 4 visitors present.
Received Income Tax Summary Report for Month Ending 05-31-2016.
Motion by Fisher, second by Lee to approve the minutes of the May 16, 2016 Council Meeting as submitted. Vote – 7 yeas, 0 nays.
Utilities Committee – a meeting was held on 06-01-2016 and the following was discussed:
The committee opened with a presentation from Dave Dwyer about Solar Energy and storage for the city of Wapakoneta. His presentation made the following points.
WAPAKONETA HAS A VERY HIGH LEVEL OF ENERGY MARKET RISK
•200,000 Mwh load at $ 12 million cost for 2015
•Projected cost increase from $ 12m now to $15.6m by 2020
•62% or $ 7.5 million at market risk now; $ 9.6 million will be at market risk in 2020
•Projected average rate increase from $ 68 Mwh now to $ 76 Mwh in 2020
•Capacity, Transmission and Demand factors are increasing in volatility
HOW ARE WILL BEGIN TO SOLVE THE MARKET RISK PROBLEM
•▸ ARE can design, finance and build a 10 Mw solar array with up to 15 Mw energy storage facilities at no capital cost to Wapakoneta, as we did with Minster.
•The array can provide 6.5% of the Wapakoneta load
•The array can provide an estimated 6-7% annual savings and a $ 21+million overall PPA savings
•The storage can provide Demand Reduction, Reactive Power, Voltage Support, increased power quality across the city power grid, PJM cost savings
•The storage can add lease and power revenues for the city
•Both the Array and the Storage can bring O/M revenue to Wapakoneta
The committee expressed interest in learning more about the proposal and asked that Mr. Dwyer contact John Courtney to see how this proposal fits with Wapakoneta’s Public Power Plan.
Mr. Scott then brought to the committee’s attention the fact that the Utility Office would like to change their hours from closing at 4:30 to closing at 4:00. The committee did not have an objection.
Ms. Barber asked why the Utility Office is changing hours of operation. Service Director Scott answered that staff would like to shorten their lunch break to one-half hour, thus ending their workday at 4:00pm. Ms. Barber expressed her concern that this may be a hardship for some citizens. Mr. Graf asked that the new hours be communicated on the message board. Mr. Neumeier asked that it also be communicated within Utility bills.
Mr. Fisher then added that he will send Mr. Dwyer’s PowerPoint presentation to Council for their review.
Ms. Barber asked what ‘energy market risk’ means. Mr. Fisher answered, the amount of power already purchased versus the power that must be purchased to meet demand.
Health & Safety Committee – a meeting was held on 05-18-2016 and the following was discussed:
The committee meeting started promptly at 5:00 p.m. on May 2nd to discuss the state of the water in Wapakoneta and a policy to be used by the city for private use of public streets.
The committee was brought up to date concerning the state of the water in Wapakoneta. Mr. Hamell indicated that there are currently no known issues with our drinking water and Wapakoneta is well within the State and Federal codes for clean water.
The committee reviewed the documents prepared previously for private use of public streets. A motion to prepare legislation pertaining to the private use of public streets was made by Randy Fisher and seconded by Rachel Barber. Passed by a 3-0 vote.
Mr. Lee also supplied Council with a letter from the Ohio EPA regarding changes to the lead compliance program.
Parks & Rivers Committee in conjunction with the Streets & Alleys Committee – a meeting was held on 06-01-2016 and the following was discussed:
Neumeier called the meeting to order, and explained that its purpose was to review the components of the Riverscape plan prior to the public hearing on June 23. Neumeier asked if the plan remained open to changes. Ruck explained that the overall concept is pretty much tied down with the scope of the project as approved by ODOT, although the specifics of design components can change. It will include, in no particular order:
- 24-foot wide paved (dedicated) street that follows the path of the river (on its south side; from Harrison to Blackhoof), with curb and gutter on its north side;
- a 7 1/2-foot sidewalk along this street;
- 1 12-foot walking/cycling path along the river, in concrete;
- a 4" cap and railing on the river wall (after removing the top 4" of the existing wall), the railing of up to 4' in height;
- openings to steps to the river removed on the south side;
- shelter house with restroom and fireplace (with a bring-your-own-wood grill). This structure would have area that can be utilized as a stage, as well as a dance floor;
- screening around pump station;
- removal of a number of existing trees (per recommendations from ODNR's Stephanie Miller) and installation of other trees (as well as perennials and shrubs);
- decorative brick work depicting Quaker and Shawnee patterns;
- archway (duplicating the one adjacent to the former Chase Building) at the Blackhoof Street end of the park;
- benches, trash receptacles, bike racks, water fountain;
- street lighting matching what is downtown;
- extensive storm sewer network;
- Graf spoke about previous issues with drivers speeding behind town, and suggested incorporating speed humps wide enough that they would also indicate crosswalks from parking areas to park.
- Barber suggested designating cross walk areas from the parking spaces on the east side to the park.
- Lee asked about a family restroom. The group spoke about the possibility of one larger, unisex restroom vs. two gender specific restrooms. Barber felt that two bathrooms are ALWAYS better than one.
- Scott asked about a security camera. Conduit may be incorporated into the plans for the shelter house area, but the City would have to pay 100% of the costs of a security system. Graf mentioned that TSC had installed cameras for St. Marys parks paid for with grant money and suggest to Scott to investigate possible funding.
- Trejo explained that interpretive panels can be incorporated at the base of every column on the river wall that has a light pole, 16 in all. No signs will be on the north side of the river.
- Graf asked whether there will be outlets on the light posts. Yes. The ability will also exist to turn off some lighting during concerts.
- It was asked whether the existing boulders will remain. Yes (moved).
- The designers anticipate relocating the existing shelter houses to the north side of the river.
- River-side appropriate plantings will also be installed on the north side, at a three-foot elevation (related to the river's height).
- The sign will be re-designed. Barber asked about a sign on the north side of the river that could explain why it is called Belcher.
- Graf ask about Heritage Drive becoming a dedicated street and was told it would and that city could set speed limit.
- Graf asked about design’s elimination of parking along the south side of Heritage Drive. Engineers explained that ODOT required a 6’ setback for all work along the city’s right of way. There was not enough room without obtaining costly temporary easements along parking area on south side of roadway.
- Graf asked about the proposed burial of the electrical lines in the parking area. Stinebaugh explained that is a separate project and will not begin until the remaining six easements are obtained.
- The group asked about timing. In a best case scenario, it would probably go out for bid at the end of 2018, with construction in the spring and summer of 2019. Barber noted that this conflicted with the 50th anniversary Moon Walk celebration. We will know later how our timetable is playing out.
- Graf asked about repairing the drive from the Dollar General down into the area, and explained that we are under a court order to keep this access open. The designers stated that the drive is on private property and not part of the project design. Barber noted that it is in terrible condition and makes a horrible first impression. It was shown that the city has a right of way to the top of the hill.
- Tricia Bishop from ODOT will be conducting the environmental study for the project for free and everyone involved needs to be nice to her.
- Graf expressed concern about where snow from the street and parking lots would be pushed since the design prohibits pushing it to the river wall.
- The group briefly spoke about the particulars of the June 23 meeting.
Having no further business, Lee made a motion, seconded by Barber to adjourn.
Mr. Fisher expressed his concern regarding item number 28, stating that he has received many complaints from citizens about the condition of said area. Mr. Neumeier and Mr. Lee suggested closing the City-owned access to the area. Mayor Stinebaugh stated he felt this would generate even more complaints from citizens. Mr. Graf agreed to keep this matter on the table of the Streets & Alleys Committee for further consideration.
Mrs. Wurst asked for clarification on item number 9. Ms. Barber answered that the bricks would have quilt or Shawnee patterns.
Guest Petitions -
Victor Rosengarten of 910 Daisy Drive addressed Council with a complaint about the state of a retention pond located behind his property. Mr. Rosengarten stated that the pond has overgrown vegetation surrounding it, and the water is stagnant and full of pond scum. Mr. Rosengarten asked if the City would contact the owner and ask them to remedy the situation with aeration or otherwise, as he feels the condition is lowering his property value and creating a mosquito problem. Service Director Scott stated that he recently inspected said pond due to a complaint about flies, but did not find any. Mr. Graf asked Service Director Scott to investigate the City’s Ordinances regarding pond maintenance requirements within City limits.
Unfinished Business –
Mr. Doll asked, regarding the South Interceptor Project, if the trees to be planted in the fall will be going out for bid. Mr. Graf answered that this item will be contracted out, and that he will address the matter at the Tree Commission meeting.
Ms. Barber asked about the status of tree lawn grass planting on East Auglaize Street. Mayor Stinebaugh advised that soil samples show the ph level to be too high, therefore gypsum will be applied and a sample area will be planted.
Ms. Barber asked if the City will be completing recommendations by Stephanie Miller to protect and care for existing trees on West Auglaize Street. Mayor Stinebaugh replied that this will be addressed at the Tree Commission meeting.
President Henderson asked Clerk to read Ord 2016-13 for the third time re: AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A COMMERCIAL / INDUSTRIAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT LOAN PROGRAM AND PROVIDING FOR THE FUNDING THEREOF.
Motion by Doll, second by Fisher to amend Section 4 of Ordinance 2016-13, striking out the portion starting with “Fund 301…” and amending to read: “…unused and unappropriated monies from the general fund…”Mr. Fisher asked, for clarification, if all members of the Finance Committee support said amendment to the ordinance. Mr. Neumeier replied, yes. Vote – 7 yeas, 0 nays. Motion passed.
Motion by Doll, second by Barber to adopt Ord 2016-13 as amended. Vote – 7 yeas, 0 nays. Motion passed.
President Henderson asked Clerk to read Res 2016-14 for the third time re: A RESOLUTION RATIFYING LOAN TO HEAVEN HOSPITALITY, INC.
Motion by Lee, second by Fisher to adopt Res 2016-14. Vote – 7 yeas, 0 nays. Motion passed.
President Henderson asked Clerk to read Res 2016-15 for the third time re: A RESOLUTION RATIFYING LOAN TO JOHN-WILLIAM DAVIS DBA J. MARIE’S RESTAURANT.
Motion by Lee, second by Wurst to adopt Res 2016-15.
Mr. Neumeier asked if the City is getting checks back on said loans. Service Director Scott replied, yes, and the monies are going into the general fund. Mr. Neumeier asked if said monies will be earmarked for a particular area of the general fund. Service Director Scott answered, correct.
Mr. Fisher stated that J. Marie’s needs to change their ‘vegetable of the day’, as it has been corn on the cob for three straight weeks.
Vote – 7 yeas, 0 nays. Motion passed.
President Henderson asked Clerk to read Ord 2016-16 for the first time re: AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC SERVICE AND SAFETY TO SET SPECIFICATIONS, ADVERTISE FOR BIDS, AND EXECUTE A MICRO-SURFACING PROGRAM FOR THE VARIOUS STREETS WITHIN THE CITY OF WAPAKONETA.
Mrs. Wurst clarified that Auditor Wells indicated money is available for existing projects, but not for new projects.
President Henderson asked Clerk to read Res 2016-17 for the first time re: A RESOLUTION DECLARING THE NECESSITY OF CONSTRUCTING AND/OR REPAIRING CERTAIN SIDEWALKS IN THE CITY OF WAPAKONETA, COUNTY OF AUGLAIZE, STATE OF OHIO, REQUIRING THAT ABUTTING PROPERTY OWNERS CONSTRUCT AND/OR REPAIR THE SAME.
Mrs. Wurst pointed out that within said Resolution, Pearl and Benton Streets are listed but that east or west is not defined. Ms. Barber asked that the Engineering Department clarify the details of Res 2016-17 prior to the next Council meeting.
President Henderson asked Clerk to read Ord 2016-18 for the first time re: AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC SERVICE AND SAFETY TO SET SPECIFICATIONS, ADVERTISE FOR BIDS, AND EXECUTE A RECLAMITE PROGRAM FOR VARIOUS STREETS WITHIN THE CITY OF WAPAKONETA.
President Henderson asked Clerk to read Ord 2016-19 for the first time re: AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF WAPAKONETA, THROUGH IT’S DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC SERVICE AND SAFETY, TO NEGOTIATE AND ENTER INTO A LEASE WITH ADJOINING PROPERTY OWNERS FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 404 WEST AUGLAIZE STREET.
Mr. Neumeier stated that the City ought to be dividing the property up as promised.
Mrs. Wurst stated that there ought to be lease parameters from Council about the matter, and she would like to know what they are before she is asked to vote on the matter.
Ms. Barber stated that the adjoining property owners had hoped that said property would be divided between them.
Law Director Faller reminded Council that they voted to have legislation prepared yet gave no direction on what the parameters ought to be.
Mr. Fisher suggested the matter be put back into a committee for consideration, and stated that he is opposed to giving the property away for free.
Mayor Stinebaugh stated that City Department heads want to keep the property for access points to the sewer and electrical in that area.
Law Director Faller reminded Council that no easement is as good as ownership, and warned Council that in an easement situation, if the City were forced to use equipment at said access point and caused turf issues or otherwise, complaints may be raised about all details of repair.
Mr. Graf stated that he is in favor of the City maintaining ownership and conducting a trial lease of the property.
Mr. Lee stated that he is in favor of said ordinance.
President Henderson then put the matter back to the Lands & Buildings Committee to determine all the details needed in order to give City Administration the direction they are needing to proceed with the matter.
The Mayor gave the following report:
No report.
Mayor Stinebaugh noted that the income tax summary provided to Council shows that the receipts are over $100,000 ahead of where they were last year at this time.
Ms. Barber advised that she will distribute the Tree Commission Academy Day information to Council.
The Service Director gave the following report:
The sanitary sewer problem on South Pine Street will be addressed tomorrow. The online checkbook has been updated per Mr. Doll’s request.
Mrs. Wurst and Mr. Lee asked if trees blocking traffic signage will be remedied. Mayor Stinebaugh agreed to look into this.
SCHEDULING OF MEETINGS:
Lands & Buildings Committee will meet on June 8th at 4:00pm at City Hall.
Miscellaneous Business –
Motion by Doll, second by Fisher to enter into executive session at 8:36pm for the purpose of conference with an attorney for the public body concerning disputes involving the public body that are the subject of pending or imminent court action and inviting attorneys representing the City and Law Director Faller.
Mr. Graf asked that the motion be amended to also include considering confidential information related to the marketing plans, specific business strategy, production techniques, trade secrets, or personal financial statements of an applicant for economic development assistance, or to negotiations with other political subdivisions respecting requests for economic development assistance. Mr. Doll and Mr. Fisher agreed to said amendment to their motion.