City Council
Regular MeetingLaconia, NH · January 23, 2017
Minutes
CITY OF LACONIA - CITY COUNCIL
Monday, January 23, 2017 - 7:00 PM
City Hall - Conference Room 200A
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Engler called the meeting to order at the above date and time.
SALUTE TO THE FLAG
Robert Hamel led the Salute to the Flag.
RECORDING SECRETARY
City Clerk Mary Reynolds
ROLL CALL
City Clerk Reynolds called the roll with the following Councilors in attendance: David
Bownes, Henry Lipman, Brenda Baer, Bob Hamel and Armand Bolduc.
Mayor Engler noted there are five (5) Councilors are in attendance and a quorum is
established.
STAFF IN ATTENDANCE
City Manager Scott Myers, Finance Director Donna Woodaman
COUNCIL PROCLAMATION
ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
(1) Acceptance of the regular meeting minutes from January 9, 2017
The minutes of the January 9, 2017 meeting were distributed on January 17, 2017.
No corrections or changes were received.
With no further correction the minutes were accepted as distributed.
CONSENT AND ACTION CALENDAR
(1) Request to establish rental fee for Boardwalk, Lakeport Fire Station and Weirs
Boulevard vending spaces for Laconia Motorcycle Week 2017
Motion to approve rental fees for Laconia Motorcycle Week 2017 vending
spaces located on the Boardwalk, at the Lakeport Fire Station and on Weirs
Boulevard as presented made by Councilor Hamel and seconded by Councilor
Bolduc; the motion passed with all in favor.
(2) Request from Lakes Region Sled Dog Club to waive license, vendor and loudspeaker
fees for the February 10 - 12, 2017 Sled Dog Event
Motion to approve the request from Lakes Region Sled Dog Club to waive
license, vendor and loudspeaker fees for the February 10 - 12, 2017, or
February 17-19, 2017, Sled Dog Event made by Councilor Bolduc and
seconded by Councilor Lipman; the motion passed with all in favor.
CITIZEN COMMENTS FOR MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA
INTERVIEWS
COMMUNICATIONS
PUBLIC HEARING
PRESENTATIONS
(1) Update on Department Activities Related to the Opiod Crisis
Police Chief Chris Adams, Fire Chief Ken Erickson and Lieutenant Tom Swett
addressed the Council with an update on the Prevention, Education and Treatment
(PET) program that has been implemented within the City. The initial success of the
additional Recovery Coordinator Brian Keyes at the Fire Department was
discussed in detail as well as the contacts from the PET Coordinator Eric Adams at
the Police Department. Additional efforts of the Police Department that are made
possible from grant funding were also reviewed.
Councilor Lipman asked if the program expansion at the County level is being
worked into the PET program. Chief Adams replied that the programs at the County
level will begin in September and they will be working with Officer Adams, as they
are now, and it will be beneficial to the overall outcome.
Councilor Lipman asked, if given the opportunity, what would be done differently
than is being done today. Chief Adams replied that if there were additional
resources, such as another PET Officer and more detectives, that would be the
best outcome but the reality is that finances are not in place for that. Chief Erickson
replied that having more financial support from the State level would benefit the
programs.
Councilor Lipiman commented that the Community Health Services Network has
leveraged funding that could be of use to the smaller agencies within the
community.
Councilor Bownes asked how the programs the City is running are linked with the
District Court program. Chief Adams replied that the Police Department is very
involved with the program.
Councilor Bownes asked if the Belmont Fire Department is participating with the
Fire Department. Chief Erickson replied that it is not directly participating and the
focus is primarily the City. It was explained that it takes a special person that truly
wants to help others in this way because it is a huge commitment and takes a large
amount of energy.
Councilor Bolduc asked if the people receiving help are being charged for this.
Chief Adams replied that they are not because this is a service provided by the
Police Department. It was added that if this position/program did not exist it would
be a larger impact on the economics of the community. Chief Erickson commented
that on the Fire Department side it is fully funded by the hospital.
Councilor Hamel commented that he is impressed with the progress over the last
three (3) years. The number of fatal overdoses over the last three (3) years was
discussed, as well as the four (4) overdoses that were not fatal this year to date.
Councilor Hamel asked if the groups providing assistance for addiction could be
reorganized into a better program in cooperation with the City programs. Councilor
Lipman replied that the Community Health Services Network is working to do this
with the various agencies in the area.
MAYOR'S REPORT
Mayor Engler updated the Council on the Laconia State School property. The President
of the NH Senate, Chuck Morse, did not like the progress and has put in a bill to form
another committee and an immediate hearing was held; the bill is scheduled to be voted
on in the Senate on Wednesday. It was outlined that Senator Morse does not want to
have the State spend any additional funds on the property for maintenance, marketing or
realtors. There are continued efforts from the standing committee to make a
recommendation to market the property as well as House effort to retain the property.
Discussion was held regarding the cost of maintenance of the property.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
*Not all items in this section may be acted on. Reports and updates will be made when
necessary.
(1) FINANCE
(a) Downtown TIF Financing
(b) WOW Trail Funding
(c) Conversion of street lights to LED
(d) HB 430 - Expansion of the Veterans' Tax Credit
Councilor Lipman reported on the meeting held this evening at 6:30 p.m. Senate
Bill 80 (SB 80) was introduced to phase in the credit and the committee would like
to see if it is enacted to allow for a fair implementation. This item will stay on the
committee agenda.
There was a request to ask for support of SB 80 so the City Manager can take a
position on behalf of the City. The Council did so.
(2) PUBLIC SAFETY
(a) Fair St/Court St traffic problems and accidents
(3) GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS and ORDINANCES
(a) Review of Chapter 167, Noise and Chapter 161, Licensing as it pertains to outdoor
sound equipment and loudspeakers
(b) Ordinance Amending Chapter 221, Vehicles and Traffic/Parking on Sublawns
(c) Procedural review of grant applications
(4) LANDS and BUILDINGS
(a) Downtown parking garage
(b) Repair & maintenance of City Buildings
(c) Former Lakeport Fire Station (23 Elm Street)
LIASON REPORT
CITIZEN REQUESTS TO COMMENT ON CURRENT AGENDA ITEMS
MANAGER'S REPORT
(1) Project Updates Report
City Manager Myers reviewed the report.
City Manager Myers discussed the efforts of milfoil treatment and removal being
organized by Suzanne Perley. This will be discussed at the Board of Water
Commissioners meeting this Thursday.
(2) Other Items
Councilor Baer requested an update on the Winnipesaukee River Basin Project
(WRBP). City Manager Myers advised that they have not received a formal
response to the question regarding the cost, if any, for a regional ownership by the
user communities. It was also advised that there is legislation that would require the
municipalities to establish a fund to support the infrastructure of the WRBP in the
future. Discussion followed on the responsibilities of the WRBP and the those of
the Department of Environmental Services.
Mayor Engler noted that the Downtown TIF Advisory Board has noted they are not
pleased with the lack of progress on a plan for the parking garage. It was reiterated
that the Council is not going to be looking at a plan for the parking garage.
Councilor Hamel asked for an update on the LED lighting improvements. City
Manger Myers replied that this is being rolled out in February at a rate of 300 lights
a week. It was also noted that the credit from Eversource has been confirmed and
the final cost to the City will be approximately $250,000 with a two (2) year payback
form the changing of the lights.
NEW BUSINESS
(1) Request to accept the Memorandum of Understanding between the Town of Gilford and
the City of Laconia regarding the Black Brook Pump Station Power Expense Cost
Sharing
The City’s Black Brook sewage pump station on Union Avenue also receives
sewage from the Town of Gilford’s sewage system. Gilford’s percentage of the
pump station’s flow is approximately 31%. Traditionally the cost of electricity to
operate the pump station has been divided between the two municipalities based
on the amount of sewage received from Gilford.
For many years DPW provided Gilford’s share of the Black Brook electrical
operating costs to the Winnipesaukee River Basin Staff and their staff credited
Laconia’s account in the amount of Gilford’s share of the power cost and added
that amount to Gilford’s operation and maintenance Invoice. The Department of
Environmental Services recently centralized all financial services and will no longer
make the adjustment. Therefore the two municipalities must implement an
agreement to formalize the cost transfer.
This Memorandum of Understanding will formalize the agreement for this annual
payment until such time that a more definitive cost share agreement can be
developed between the two municipalities.
Motion to accept the Memorandum of Understanding between the Town of
Gilford and the City of Laconia regarding the Black Brook Pump Station Power
Expense Cost Sharing and to authorize the City Manager to sign the document
on behalf of the City made by Councilor Bolduc and seconded by Councilor
Bownes; the motion passed with all in favor.
(2) Request for no-parking on sections of Mechanic Street and Warren Street
City Manager Myers reviewed the following requests.
1. Mechanic Street: No Parking, Standing, or Stopping on both sides of the road
from the intersection of Union Avenue to the end of house at 29 Mechanic Street.
The travel way is narrow with a curve in close proximity to the Union Avenue
intersection. Site distance is significantly compromised when cars, trucks, trailers,
etc. are parked, stopped to drop someone off, or standing to load or unload
equipment on Mechanic Street for any reason. Such parking has forced cars into
the opposing lane on a curve with limited site distance. Vehicles have at times
parked over the public sidewalk forcing pedestrians into the travel way. This
request would minimize the public safety issue. Public Works staff met with the
several store managers in the Eight Gables Mall and with the owner of 11 Mechanic
Street. Staff also spoke with Tom Cantin of Cantin Chevrolet and Donald Kendall
of 29 Mechanic Street. They are all agreeable to the proposed no-parking,
standing, or stopping restriction in this area. Lastly, we spoke with John Moriarty
who owns the Eight Gables Mall. John understands the situation and while not
happy about the parking restrictions, he is supportive.
Mayor Engler asked where the request came from. City Manager Myers replied that
a resident on the street initiated the request. There was discussion of the specific
area.
Calvin Dunn III addressed the Council. He has built a house at 11 Mechanic Street
and at the time he was not permitted to remove a telephone pole that then effected
the placement of his driveway. C. Dunn also noted that there has been an issue for
years and it was brought to his attention when the active building began and
everyone began parking in his driveway. The issue is that there is no parking on
Mechanic Street and people just assume it is a good idea to park there for a short
time. C. Dunn added that he feels the problem is from the Eight Gables Mall only
and not from Cantin's or any other businesses in the area because the Eight
Gables Mall does not have adequate parking. C. Dunn has requested this no-
parking zone to protect the public.
City Manager Myers advised that if the Council would like to take action this evening
it would be acceptable to do so and no public hearing is required.
Motion to approve the staff recommendations of no parking, standing or
stopping on Mechanic Street from Union Avenue to 29 Mechanic Street made by
Councilor Bownes and seconded by Councilor Bolduc; the motion passed with
all in favor.
It was advised that signs will be installed as soon as practical given the ground
conditions.
2. Warren Street: No parking on both sides of Warren Street from the easterly
property sideline of house 49 to the westerly property sideline of house 86.
The crest of the steep hill is near the house at 68 Warren Street. One of the Warren
Street residents called Public Works requesting that we look at what they thought
was a dangerous situation with parking near the crest of the hill. Public Works'
analysis determined that the steep hill creates a very serious site distance issue.
No matter which direction vehicles are traveling, there is no reaction time to avoid
swerving into the opposite lane to avoid a parked car near the crest. Public Works
sent letters to the 14 Warren Street residents that would be affected by this
proposed parking ban. Seven (7) residents responded with six (6) in favor of the
no-parking ban and one (1) strongly opposed to the ban. The owner of 68 Warren
Street, Marc Burrell, is the most affected. His small driveway is close to the crest
of the hill and he is concerned that he will not be able to have people visit. We
responded that if this passed, he could have visitors but they would need to park
approximately three (3) houses away.
Mayor Engler asked who made the request. City Manager Myers replied that this
was made by a resident on the street.
Director of Public Works Wes Anderson advised the Council that because of the
crest of the hill it is not possible to see vehicles parked on the other side of the hill.
It was also discussed that the street was recently paved and that would increase
the problems of speed which will impact the safety. Councilor Hamel noted his
familiarity with the area as did Mayor Engler.
Marc Burrell, 68 Warren Street, addressed the Council. In his opinion this was not a
problem until the street was paved at which time speed became higher and
concerns arose. M. Burrell stated that in his opinion that banning parking is not the
solution and signs or mirrors should be used first, as well as more police presence
that would deter the speeding that is causing the problem. As a tax payer, M. Burrell
expects to have the ability to park in front of his house.
Motion to refer this item to the Public Safety Committee made by Councilor
Lipman and seconded by Councilor Bolduc; the motion passed with all in
favor.
A meeting of the Public Safety Committee was scheduled for February 13, 2017 at
6:30 p.m.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
(1) Unsolicited offer to purchase City-owned property at 23 Elm Street (Lakeport Fire
Station) and additional parcels in close proximity
City Manager Myers reminded that the questions in writing are due to the City by
February 3, 2017, which will be added to the website, and the proposals are due by
February 10, 2017 by 4:30 p.m. T (2) questions have been received and posted at
this time.
(2) Update on the effort to resolve the issue with maintaining unaccepted and private streets
Public Works Director Wes Anderson reviewed the proposed process.
Public Works is finalizing the plan to resolve the issue with maintaining unaccepted
and private streets. The concept for prioritizing the Department’s effort is to first
focus on those streets in the Downtown core area and Lakeport. After finishing
these streets the focus changes to paved streets in the rural areas and then to
concentrate on gravel streets and the streets in the Weirs beach area. Exception
streets will be fit into the process based on similarities with other streets.
Staff, to reduce the City’s risk during the resolution process, is requesting that the
City Council designate six (6) streets as emergency lanes. These streets are a
combination of private and unaccepted streets. The City’s Attorney has reviewed
this list and concurs that they all meet emergency lane statutory requirements. The
six (6) streets are not at the top of the priority list and designating them as
emergency lanes as an interim measure reduces potential liabilities. A public
hearing is required and abutters must be given 10 days advance notice in writing.
Only one public hearing is required.
The first two streets for acceptance “as is”, Tremont and Park, will be test cases for
the resolution process. Staff has met with the City Attorney and will provide them a
file of all documentation on these two (2) streets on January 20, 2017. The City
Attorney will review the documentation to determine the proper method of making
these two (2) streets public highways. Staff expects that the Attorney will find that a
public hearing is required. If a hearing is required abutters and their mortgage
companies must have 30 days advance notice of the hearing. Staff will request City
Council establish a date for a public hearing for these two (2) streets once the
Attorney determines which method to use in making the roads Class V (5) public
highways.
Discussion followed the presentation regarding the process, cost, staff hours used
so far to complete the research, and the risks associated with the failure to approve
the streets. There was a recommendation to carry forward to the public hearing for
the emergency lanes but to also look into a legislative change to ease the burden
on the municipalities in regards to the process.
Motion to schedule a public hearing on February 13, 2017 during the regular
Council Meeting for the purpose of the proposed declaration of Bell Street
Extension, Crossover Street, Channel Lane, Hillcrest Drive, Lane Road and
Pickeral Pond Road as emergency lanes made by Councilor Bownes and
seconded by Councilor Hamel; the motion passed with all in favor.
The Council requested to have the City Manager pursue the possibility of a
legislative change for this purpose. Mayor Engler and City Manager Myers will
discuss this and come back to the Council with a plan. It was also requested that
resources do not be put into the continuation of any other streets except Tremont
and Park until after the February 13 meeting.
NOMINATIONS, APPOINTMENTS & ELECTIONS
(1) Margaret Selig - seeking appointment to a regular position on the Trustees of the Trust
Fund for a three-year term expiring at the end of March, 2019 (1 vacant regular position
available)
Motion to appointment Margaret Selig to a regular position on the Trustees of the
Trust Fund for a three-year term expiring at the end of March, 2019 made by
Councilor Hamel and seconded b Councilor Bolduc; the motion passed with
all in favor.
(2) Elizabeth Merry - seeking appointment to a regular position on the Planning Board
Motion to appoint Elizabeth Merry as a regular member of the Planning Board to
fill the remaining term of Warren Hutchins which expires at the end of June,
2018 made by Councilor Bownes and seconded by Councilor Bolduc;
the motion passed with all in favor.
(3) Charlie St. Clair - seeking appointment to a regular position on the Planning Board
Motion to appoint Charlie St. Clair as a regular member of the Planning Board to
fill the remaining term of Jerry Mailloux which expires at the end of June 2017
made by Councilor Bolduc and seconded by Councilor Bownes; the motion
passed with all in favor.
COUNCIL COMMENTS
NON-PUBLIC SESSION According to RSA 91-A:3, II
(a) The dismissal, promotion or compensation of any public employee, or the investigation of any charges
against him, unless the employee affected (1) has a right to a meeting and (2) requests that the meeting be
open, in which case the request shall be granted.
(b) The hiring of any person as a public employee.
(c) Matters which, if discussed in public, would likely affect adversely the reputation of any person, other
than a member of the body or agency itself, unless such person requests an open meeting.
(d) Consideration of the acquisition, sale or lease of real or personal property which, if discussed in public,
would likely benefit a party or parties whose interests are adverse to those of the general community.
(e) Consideration or negotiation of pending claims or litigation which has been threatened in writing or filed
against the body or agency or any subdivision thereof, or against any member thereof because of his
membership in such body or agency, until the claim or litigation has been fully adjudicated or otherwise
settled.
(i) Consideration of matters relating to the preparation for and the carrying out of emergency functions
including training to carry out such functions, developed by local or state safety officials that are directly
intended to thwart a deliberate act that is intended to result in widespread or severe damage to property or
widespread injury or loss of life.
Motion to enter into non-public session according to RSA 91-A:3, II (d) made by
Councilor Bolduc and seconded by Councilor Bownes. On a roll call vote all
members responded in the affirmative and the Council entered into non-public
session at 9:30 p.m.
Motion to come out of non-public session at 9:50 p.m. made by Councilor Lipman and
seconded by Councilor Bolduc; the motion passed with all in favor.
Motion to seal the minutes of the non-public session for two (2) years made by
Councilor Hamel and seconded by Councilor Bolduc; the motion passed with all in
favor.
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
(1) Ordinance amendment relative to Chapter 167, Noise and Chapter 161, Licensing
as it pertains to outdoor sound equipment and loudspeakers (tabled at the meeting
of 9/28/15)
(2) Second reading of a resolution relative to the adoption of RSA 31:95-b,
Appropriation of funds made available during the year (tabled at the meeting of
11/23/15 pending the outcome of legal matters)
(3) Milfoil Treatment Funding Request
(4) Sewer & Water Master Plan
(5) Single Stream Recycling/Concord Co-op/Solid Waste Disposal Cost Reduction
(6) Strategic Planning/Goal Setting
(7) WOW Trail
ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn at 9:53 p.m. made by Councilor Baer and seconded by Councilor
Bolduc; the motion passed with all in favor.
Respectfully Submitted:
Mary Reynolds
City Clerk
These minutes were accepted by the City Council at there meeting of February 13, 2017.
Agenda
CITY OF LACONIA - CITY COUNCIL
Monday, January 23, 2017 - 7:00 PM
City Hall - Conference Room 200A
CALL TO ORDER
SALUTE TO THE FLAG
RECORDING SECRETARY
ROLL CALL
STAFF IN ATTENDANCE
ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
1. Acceptance of the regular meeting minutes from January 9, 2017
CONSENT AND ACTION CALENDAR
1. Request to establish rental fee for Boardwalk, Lakeport Fire Station and Weirs
Boulevard vending spaces for Laconia Motorcycle Week 2017
2. Request from Lakes Region Sled Dog Club to waive license, vendor and
loudspeaker fees for the February 10 - 12, 2017 Sled Dog Event
CITIZEN COMMENTS FOR MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA
INTERVIEWS
COMMUNICATIONS
PUBLIC HEARING
PRESENTATIONS
1. Update on Department Activities Related to the Opiod Crisis
MAYOR'S REPORT
COMMITTEE REPORTS
*Not all items in this section may be acted on. Reports and updates will be made when necessary.
1. FINANCE: (Lipman, Hamel, Baer)
(a) Downtown TIF Financing
(b) WOW Trail Funding
(c) Conversion of street lights to LED
(d) HB 430 - Expansion of the Veterans' Tax Credit
2. PUBLIC SAFETY: (Baer, Doyle, Bownes)
(a) Fair St/Court St traffic problems and accidents
3. GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS and ORDINANCES: (Doyle, Bolduc, Bownes)
(a) Review of Chapter 167, Noise and Chapter 161, Licensing as it pertains to outdoor
Page 1 of 51
sound equipment and loudspeakers
(b) Ordinance Amending Chapter 221, Vehicles and Traffic/Parking on Sublawns
(c) Procedural review of grant applications
4. LANDS and BUILDINGS: (Hamel, Lipman ,Bolduc)
(a) Downtown parking garage
(b) Repair & maintenance of City Buildings
(c) Former Lakeport Fire Station (23 Elm Street)
LIAISON REPORT
CITIZEN REQUESTS TO COMMENT ON CURRENT AGENDA ITEMS
MANAGER'S REPORT
1. Project Updates Report
NEW BUSINESS
1. Request to accept the Memorandum of Understanding between the Town of
Gilford and the City of Laconia regarding the Black Brook Pump Station Power
Expense Cost Sharing
2. Request for no-parking on sections of Mechanic Street and Warren Street
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
1. Unsolicited offer to purchase City-owned property at 23 Elm Street (Lakeport Fire
Station) and additional parcels in close proximity
2. Update on the effort to resolve the issue with maintaining unaccepted and private
streets
NOMINATIONS, APPOINTMENTS & ELECTIONS
1. Margaret Selig - seeking appointment to a regular position on the Trustees of the
Trust Fund for a three-year term expiring at the end of March, 2019 (1 vacant
regular position available)
2. Elizabeth Merry - seeking appointment to a regular position on the Planning Board
3. Charlie St. Clair - seeking appointment to a regular position on the Planning Board
COUNCIL COMMENTS
NON-PUBLIC SESSION According to RSA 91-A:3, II:
(a) The dismissal, promotion or compensation of any public employee, or the investigation of any charges
against him, unless the employee affected (1) has a right to a meeting and (2) requests that the meeting be
open, in which case the request shall be granted.
(b) The hiring of any person as a public employee.
(c) Matters which, if discussed in public, would likely affect adversely the reputation of any person, other
than a member of the body or agency itself, unless such person requests an open meeting.
(d) Consideration of the acquisition, sale or lease of real or personal property which, if discussed in public,
would likely benefit a party or parties whose interests are adverse to those of the general community.
(e) Consideration or negotiation of pending claims or litigation which has been threatened in writing or filed
against the body or agency or any subdivision thereof, or against any member thereof because of his
Page 2 of 51
membership in such body or agency, until the claim or litigation has been fully adjudicated or otherwise
settled.
(i) Consideration of matters relating to the preparation for and the carrying out of emergency functions
including training to carry out such functions, developed by local or state safety officials that are directly
intended to thwart a deliberate act that is intended to result in widespread or severe damage to property or
widespread injury or loss of life.
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
1. Ordinance amendment relative to Chapter 167, Noise and Chapter 161, Licensing
as it pertains to outdoor sound equipment and loudspeakers (tabled at the meeting
of 9/28/15)
2. Second reading of a resolution relative to the adoption of RSA 31:95-b,
Appropriation of funds made available during the year (tabled at the meeting of
11/23/15 pending the outcome of legal matters)
3. Milfoil Treatment Funding Request
4. Sewer & Water Master Plan
5. Single Stream Recycling/Concord Co-op/Solid Waste Disposal Cost Reduction
6. Strategic Planning/Goal Setting
7. WOW Trail
ADJOURNMENT
Page 3 of 51
CITY COUNCIL ITEM INFORMATION SHEET
DATE SUBMITTED: 1/17/2017
FROM: Mary Reynolds, City Clerk
SUBJECT: Acceptance of the regular meeting minutes from January 9, 2017
DISCUSSION:
The minutes of the January 9, 2017 meeting were distributed on January 17, 2017. No
corrections or changes were received.
If there are no further correction the minutes are accepted as distributed.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type Upload Date File Name
Draft minutes Backup Material 1/18/2017 01_09_17-DRAFT.pdf
Page 4 of 51
CITY OF LACONIA - CITY COUNCIL
Monday, January 9, 2017 - 7:00 PM
City Hall - Conference Room 200A
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Engler called the meeting to order at the above date and time.
SALUTE TO THE FLAG
Brenda Baer led the Salute to the Flag.
RECORDING SECRETARY
Deputy City Clerk Stacy Anders
ROLL CALL
Deputy Clerk Anders called the roll with the following Councilors in attendance: Ava Doyle,
David Bownes, Henry Lipman, Brenda Baer, Bob Hamel and Armand Bolduc.
Mayor Engler noted that all six (6) Councilors are in attendance and a quorum is
established.
STAFF IN ATTENDANCE
T
AF
City Manager Scott Myers, Finance Director Donna Woodaman
COUNCIL PROCLAMATION
ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
(1) Acceptance of the regular meeting minutes from December 27, 2016
R
The minutes of the December 27, 2016 meeting were distributed on December
28, 2016. No corrections or changes were received.
D With no further correction the minutes they were accepted as distributed.
CONSENT AND ACTION CALENDAR
CITIZEN COMMENTS FOR MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA
Joe Driscoll of Martin, Lord and Osman addressed the Council on behalf of the Ames
Family and their interests in Weirs Beach. A packet has been provided to the Council
outlining the concerns of the Ames Family and other business owners relating to
Motorcycle Week food vending in an area which causes a detrimental effect on the
concerned parties.Crowd control, combined with the large structures of the vendors, are
blocking visual perception of the Winnipesaukee Marketplace and the other
establishments in the area. With this unforseen circumstance it was the request of the
concerned parties to bring this to the City Council's attention so they are aware of the
negative effect that is happening to the season long businesses.
Mayor Engler asked if the clients are aware that the particular spaces have
Page 5 of 51
accommodations for waste water that the other spaces on the Boardwalk do not have. J.
Driscoll advised that he was not aware. City Manager Myers added that a drain was
placed to specifically collect the gray water that is used for food service and the
infrastructure was put in place to protect the lake. J. Driscoll thanked the Council for the
information.
Councilor Hamel commented that these spaces were allocated because having food
vendors with grease and fire over a wood surface is not a wise choice. Additionally
Councilor Hamel noted that the building in question is seen from as far back as the Weirs
Beach sign and the angle of the pictures presented are somewhat deceiving. J. Drisocll
commented that this was not the intent. There was also discussion on the access of
pedestrians to the area and the effect it may have on the business owners.
Councilor Bownes asked for a specific impact on the infrastructure for the vendors. City
Manager Myers reiterated that the accommodations were placed before his time with the
City, which began over five (5) years ago, and was also done to avoid having food
vendors over the wooden Boardwalk spaces. There was no disagreement that the size
requirements of the food vendors has increased with fire suppression needs but the
handling of the gray water and food waste needs to be handled in the best location
T
possible. Non-food related vendors have traditionally been placed on the Boardwalk with
wooden surfaces.
AF
Mayor Engler asked if there was a request to use the spaces by someone that was not a
food vendor, would it be denied. City Manager Myers explained that there would not be a
blanket "no" issued, but the needs of the requester would be taken into consideration,
such as those distributing prepared food compared to cooking on site. It was clarified that
the City does consider these spaces as designated for food vendors.
Councilor Lipman clarified that the purpose of this request is to simply place this in the
R
minds of the Council for consideration of changes in the future. J. Driscoll confirmed that
this is the intent. Mayor Engler added that this is a time sensitive matter because vendors
from last year have already indicated they are interested in returning to the location this
D
coming year, as there are vendors in the non-food spaces that have already responded
because they are long standing vendors for the City.
Mike Ames addressed the Council to give more history on the location and concerns.
Prior to the food vendors being in place the location was used for lavatory facilities and
Sid Ames was approached by the City for his input on using the site for vendors. At that
time it was expressed that Mr. Ames would be agreeable to having a 10 foot by 10 foot
space, no more than eight (8) feet high, in the location that would be for merchandise, not
food. Over time it has evolved into having large food vendors and it is effecting the local
food businesses at a time when they should be capitalizing on the outpouring of people in
the Weirs. Having food vendors here is not acceptable to the seasonal businesses
because it hurts the businesses when the event should be helping them. M. Ames added
that he is not just speaking on behalf of himself but for the other businesses in the area. It
was further expressed that the City should have approached the businesses in the area
for input on the adding of food vendors before allowing it to happen.
M. Ames thanked the Council for the project being completed on Lakeside Avenue with
Page 6 of 51
the removal of the overhead utility wires because it is going to make a huge impact on the
Weirs.
Charlie St. Clair addressed the Council regarding his concerns with the parking ban during
the snow storm last week. C. St. Clair recalled that an emergency bulletin was put out
banning parking from Thursday afternoon until Saturday morning because the storm was
predicted to be sizable. In all of his time in the City, C. St. Clair had never seen a parking
ban placed and the next morning after the storm had finished, Main Street was completely
cleared and snow removal was not an issue on Main Street. It was requested that in the
future the City does not panic when snow is forecast because it hurts the businesses
when a parking ban is placed.
INTERVIEWS
Appointments for the available positions will be taken at the January 23, 2017 meeting.
(1) Margaret Selig - seeking appointment to a regular position on the Trustees of the Trust
Fund for a three-year term expiring at the end of March, 2019 (1 vacant regular position
available)
M. Selig was interviewed.
T
(2) Elizabeth Merry - seeking appointment to a regular position on the Planning Board
E. Merry was interviewed.
AF
(3) Daniel Ash - seeking appointment to a regular position on the Planning Board
D. Ash has removed his application.
(4) Charlie St. Clair - seeking appointment to a regular position on the Planning Board
C. St. Clair was interviewed.
R
There was discussion regarding the alternate compared to full member positions
because C. St. Clair is currently an alternate member.
D Councilor Hamel made a suggestion that when someone submits an application for
a vacancy that they be given a list of questions that can be answered by the
applicant so the qualifications are clearly known. Having the chairs of the Boards
and Commissions establish applicable questions for the specific Board it would be
more valuable to the Council when making appointments. It was discussed and the
consensus was to have the City Manager work on this and report back to the
Council.
COMMUNICATIONS
PUBLIC HEARING
PRESENTATIONS
(1) Colonial Theater Project Update from Belknap Economic Development Council
Mayor Engler noted that there is a request under New Business in relation to the
Page 7 of 51
Colonial Theater loan maturation date.
Justin Slattery, Executive Director of the the Belknap Economic Development
Council (BEDC), and Jack Duggan, President of the Monadnock Economic
Development Corporation and consultant on the Colonial Theater project,
addressed the Council.
J. Duggan advised the Council that the initial loan in support of the project was
invaluable in obtaining additional contributions of $11 million toward the project. At
this time the extension of the loan is critical because the last round of value
engineering is currently taking place to ensure a project the City can be proud of
but to also get the best price for the project. The anticipation is that value
engineering will be completed in the next few weeks followed by some minor items
and the closing for the project would be before the end of April.
Councilor Bownes requested an explanation of value engineering for the public
benefit. J. Duggan explained that this refers to the architects and engineering firms
work with the planning committee to establish the best project for the most
reasonable price. Right now the mechanical and electrical systems are being
worked through.
T
Councilor Hamel asked if there will be alternate bidding on items that may not be in
AF
the budget but could be added at the time of bidding. J. Duggan stated that they
will and it was explained that the New Markets Tax Credit funds can not be returned
so additional items would be added to utilize the funds.
Councilor Hamel asked for a progress update to begin the physical work. J.
Duggan replied that if the closing is in April the work will begin in May, ideally
immediately. The architects and engineer are aware and ready to proceed when the
R
time comes and they have gone through the appropriate channels to ensure
permits are in place.
D
Councilor Hamel asked what the contingency is. J. Duggan explained that the
contingency is a combined $550,000 between the owner and the contract
manager. Discussion followed about the items that may need to be added to
facilitate the use of contingency.
Funding sources for the project include New Markets Tax Credits provides a 39%
tax credit toward the entire project which represents $4.6 million committed by
Mascoma CDE, Community Development Investment Program has awarded state
tax credits in exchange for donations has netted a $520,000 commitment, a grant
from the Land Community Heritage Investment Program of $500,000 has been
awarded, $1.5 million on community contributions, National Historic Registry
designation has qualified the project for a 20% credit on the entire project cost and
will generate $2.4 million, the City of Laconia loan commitment, a developer loan of
$250,000, a Brownfields grant for at least $200,000, and an anticipated application
for a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). In working with each entity the
necessary information has been provided and with the successful completion of
the planning board process the project will be underway this spring.
Page 8 of 51
Councilor Lipman asked for the construction time frame. J. Duggan advised it
would be approximately 11 months. Selective demolition has been done to allow
for a visual outlook and to avoid potential pitfalls later in the construction process.
Councilor Hamel asked if there has been testing for abatement needs. J. Duggan
replied that there have been and abatements will be needed for asbestos, PCB,
and any other hazardous materials identified by the state Environmental Services.
Councilor Hamel asked what is lacking to achieve the financial goal. J. Duggan
advised that the project funding will be completed once the final contributions are
noticed from CDBG and the Brownsfields
Councilor Hamel asked when the ordering of supplies and materials will begin. J.
Duggan replied that this will happen when the value engineering is complete but
some materials have been set aside so there will not be a long wait time for
materials.
Councilor Hamel asked if Mascoma Bank is favorable to the extension. J. Duggan
T
explained that the New Markets Tax Credits come with an incentive rate higher than
the average and that is an added incentive for an April closing.
AF
Councilor Baer asked if Brownsfields grants are awarded annually. J. Duggan
replied that they are and several entities apply each summer for a fall awarding and
funds have been set aside for this project.
Mayor Engler confirmed that the City is being paid monthly in interest of $4,200
until the closing and this would continue until the closing.
R
J. Slattery advised that the capital campaign will be continuing and the local
businesses have stepped up. The "buy a seat" campaign has produced calls from
people all over the country with ties to Laconia so this is a very well supported
D project.
Mayor Engler thanked J. Duggan and J. Slattery for there attendance. J. Duggan
advised that in all of his years of working on economic development in the NH he
has never seen such an outpouring of support from all levels of the community.
(2) Review Master Plan status to date and approve process for remaining chapter(s)
Mayor Engler introduced Interim Planning Director Brandee Loughlin and Jeff
Hayes, Executive Director of the Lakes Region Planning Commission.
City Manager Myers and Councilor Bownes introduced the background information
for the Council. It was advised that the Planning Board has made a commitment to
ensure the Council is comfortable with the Master Plan that is being produced.
B. Loughlin reviewed the Master Plan process to date which has been marketed as
Reimagine Laconia. The update included a breakdown of all of the events that have
been held, attendance to the events, and how/when chapters have been completed
Page 9 of 51
to this point. The Land Use, Housing, Community Services and Facilities, and
Historic and Cultural Resources chapters are remaining; however, an outline of
Land Use was completed before the prior Planning Director left the City. The
advisory committee has not met since April 2016.
Mayor Engler advised that the City Council has no legal control over the Master
Plan and it is the sole responsibility of the Planning Board but if the governing body
does not agree with the Master Plan it risks the funding not being available. It is
clear in the updated chart that the City Council did not buy in to the former Master
Plan fully and therefore areas did not get completed. Councilor Bownes added that
the Planning Board, in his observation, recognizes the need to work with the
Council and have an agreement on the Master Plan. Additionally, Councilor Bownes
feels that the many years of not having a Council liaison to the Planning Board was
detrimental to the communication between the two (2) bodies.
Councilor Lipman commented that having a vision and goals connected to the
outcome are important to be built into the process, especially for the Land Use
chapter.
T
Mayor Engler explained that J. Hayes is in attendance because the Lakes Region
Planning Commission has been contracted to assist in the completion of the
remaining chapters. The funding for the completion was withheld by resolution of
AF
the Council in December, 2016. City Manager Myers advised that he has shared
the wishes of the Council with J. Hayes and he has assured that he is willing to work
in the direction set forth by the City.
J. Hayes addressed the Council.The Lakes Region Planning Commission is
available to help the City in whatever manner they would like and they have
adequate resources to do so. J. Hayes explained that although the Planning Board
R
is responsible to approving the Master Plan they also have the responsibility to
ensure that the public is incorporated into the process and that is inclusive of the
members of the City Council. The zoning aspects of the Master Plan will need to
D
be approved by the City Council to ensure a checks and balances for the
implementation.
Councilor Lipman stated that the tax balance on the community, when comparing
residential taxable property to commercial or industrial, is of importance to the
Council. There have been instances of the City retaining property that could be of
taxable value and the Council would be interested in ways to address those
challenges in the Master Plan process. J. Hayes replied that the Lakes Region
Planning Commission can help provide the insight with creative ideas.
Councilor Hamel commented that his understanding that each chapter can be
approved separately and does not need to be done as the entire Master Plan. This
would be beneficial to begin implementation in phases. J.Hayes confirmed that this
is possible and common but advised that the Land Use and Vision chapter should
be done first before adopting any other chapters.
Councilor Hamel asked if zoning recommendations could be vetted in the process
Page 10 of 51
of the Master Plan. J. Hayes replied that they could assist with zoning as well. It was
discussed having aspects of the Master Plan that would outline and justify the
zoning needs/enforcement.
Mayor Engler asked how the Master Plan will be formulated by the Lakes Region
Planning Commission. J. Hayes replied that the input of the City staff and public
forums are taken into consideration. The Lakes Region Planning Commission will
scope the contract and involve all of the necessary players. The input process is
determined by the City with the use of professional judgement and there are
models available for reference.
Councilor Lipman commented that working through the reconciliation of what the
input sessions have produced and what is realistic for the future of the City needs
to happen because the evolution of the City needs to be taken into consideration.
J. Hayes advised that the Master Plan process is designed to look at a 20 year
outlook and that is what makes the process so in-depth. If the City wants the Lakes
Region Planning Commission to look at different models then that is what they will
do; the Planning Board, or joint committee if the City should choose, will give the
direction to the Lakes Region Planning Commission during the process.
T
Councilor Bownes asked if the information that the Planning Board has gathered
over the last several years by holding events needs to be redone because it is not
AF
reliable. Councilor Lipman replied that this is not his intention but he wants to make
sure this is weighted against the reality of the needs of the City. Mayor Engler
added that he has nothing against the public input but feels the input needs to be
examined closely.
Councilor Hamel asked how long the Master Plan process should generally take
from start to finish. J. Hayes advised that every situation is different but once all
R
parties are moving in the same direction it moves fluidly but it can be done
efficiently. It was also noted that a good planning process never ends and it is a
cycle.
D
Mayor Engler confirmed with Councilor Bownes that his understanding is the
Planning Board is receptive to sitting down with the Council to discuss the Master
Plan. Councilor Bownes replied that he has had discussions with the Chair and his
understanding that they are. Councilor Bownes will be reporting to the Planning
Board tomorrow evening and it was discussed that the Vision Statement and the
Land Use chapter are the most important items to be completed. Joint meetings of
the Council and Planning Board should be held if everyone is in agreement,
Motion to formally acknowledge the completion continued work of the Vision
Statement and the Land Use chapter of the Master Plan in partnership with the
Planning Board and the contracted assistance of the Lakes Region Planning
Commission made by Councilor Lipman and seconded by Councilor Hamel; the
motion passed with all in favor.
Councilor Bownes asked if the zoning changes that were sent to the Planning
Board, which were rejected by the Planning Board, there was an effort to have land
Page 11 of 51
use changes brought forward and they are still on the table. This effort is going to
be considered tomorrow as a place holder for a new document to be draft to
incorporate these changes and asked for direction from the Council. The Council
did not have objections to this.
(3) The Impact on Laconia of Statutory Limitations on using Public Funds on Streets in the
City limits
Public Works Director Wes Anderson reviewed a prepared presentation on issues
surrounding maintenance of private streets within the City. It was emphasized that
this activity is not permitted within State statute and the City has been engaging in
this. No decision was requested in the course of the presentation but that in the
future each street will need to have a decision made based on four (4) options that
are permitted by statute. Dedication acceptance by a developer, layout of a road on
property taken by eminent domain, prescription by a street maintained for 20
consecutive years prior to January 1, 1968, and by a betterment and acceptance
are the four (4) methods for acceptance.
There was discussion on the liability of maintaining the streets, City requirements to
become an accepted street, and updating the City's plan with the assistance of the
City attorney.
T
Councilor Lipman commented that he feels there is a sensitivity to the statute
AF
without a sensitivity to the residents and he is not comfortable with the time frame
being proposed because he feels there could be other options. Director Anderson
replied that the point is to start the process before fully implementing. It was
discussed that a lot of people will not be receiving City services that they have
been receiving.
Councilor Bownes asked if there is a number of homes being impacted if the City
R
services are discontinued. Director Anderson replied that if the direction the
Council would like to take is to make them all City accepted roads then no one will
be losing services. Councilor Bownes asked for a specific number of homes on
D the streets effected and how long this has been happening. Director Anderson
replied that he would count the lots and this has been ongoing for some time, with
the oldest being recognized in 1890.
Discussion followed regarding the amending the City's standards for City approval,
how many streets are currently at the City standard and are not, close gate
communities, and the private ways that were designed to be private and will remain
as such.
Councilor Lipman asked if there is a method legislatively to make this easier or less
liable for the City than is currently available. It was noted that a representative from
the City may be interested in sponsoring something to help there constituents.
Councilor Bolduc expressed a concern with the City approving the building of
homes on roads that are not being maintained or approved by the City. It was
explained that this process has been in place for several years and the City
attorney and Primex have approached the City to discontinue the liability. City
Page 12 of 51
Manager Myers added that the City has tried to work with property owners when a
circumstance happens that causes a private road to not be developed to a level
that would cause it to be approved as a City street. It was further discussed that
when someone purchases a property it is the purchasers responsibility to ensure a
proper title search is done on the property.
There was discussion about how to apply the legal aspects of the statutes involved
with reasonable aspect of this situation.
City Manager Myers reiterated that regardless of what recommendations are
brought forward to the Council, there will be no discontinuation of services to any
streets that have been receiving services. It was encouraged to continue the
process.
Motion to accept the process outlined by Director Anderson to continue the
process made by Councilor Hamel and seconded by Councilor Baer;
the motion passed 5-1 (For: Doyle, Bownes, Baer, Hamel, Bolduc; Against:
Lipman)
MAYOR'S REPORT
T
Mayor Engler thanked Councilor Bolduc for chairing the last Council meeting in his
absence.
AF
Mayor Engler announced that at a non-public meeting the Council had reviewed and
determined a compensation package for the City Manager. The current salary for the City
Manager is $125,000 and it was recommended by the City Manager that this be
unchanged for 2017. There was an agreement to increase the retirement contribution
from 12% to 13%. It was also noted that the City Manager contributes a substantially
R
higher amount to his health insurance coverage. Mayor Engler thanked City Manager
Myers for this gesture.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
D
*Not all items in this section may be acted on. Reports and updates will be made when
necessary.
(1) FINANCE
(a) Downtown TIF Financing
(b) WOW Trail Funding
(c) Conversion of street lights to LED
(d) HB 430 - Expansion of the Veterans' Tax Credit
(2) PUBLIC SAFETY
(a) Fair St/Court St traffic problems and accidents
Page 13 of 51
(3) GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS and ORDINANCES
(a) Review of Chapter 167, Noise and Chapter 161, Licensing as it pertains to outdoor
sound equipment and loudspeakers
(b) Ordinance Amending Chapter 221, Vehicles and Traffic/Parking on Sublawns
(c) Procedural review of grant applications
(4) LANDS and BUILDINGS
(a) Downtown parking garage
(b) Repair & maintenance of City Buildings
(c) Former Lakeport Fire Station (23 Elm Street)
Councilor Hamel reported that at this time no proposals have been received for the
property. Proposals are due February 10, 2017 and the committee will wait until
they are received to analyze the concerns moving forward.
T
Motion to extend the meeting until 10:20 p.m. made by Councilor Doyle and
seconded by Councilor Hamel; the motion passed with all in favor.
LIASON REPORT
AF
CITIZEN REQUESTS TO COMMENT ON CURRENT AGENDA ITEMS
MANAGER'S REPORT
R
(1) Financial and Operational Trends Report
City Manager Myers reviewed the report.
D
(2) Monthly Economic Development Update
City Manager Myers reviewed the report.
(3) Quarterly Recycling Update
City Manager Myers reviewed the report.
NEW BUSINESS
(1) Request by Belknap Economic Development Council for an extension of maturation
date on the loan used to purchase the Colonial Theater
Motion to extend the maturation date of the loan made to the 609 Main Street
LLC for the purpose of purchasing the Colonial Theater, with the same terms,
from January 17, 2017 until no later than April 30, 2017 made by Councilor Baer
and seconded by Councilor Bownes; the motion passed with all in favor.
(2) Request to schedule a public hearing on January 23, 2017 during the regular City
Page 14 of 51
Council meeting regarding a proposed application to the Community Development
Finance Authority for up to $500,000 in Community Development Block Grant Funds for
the benefit of the Granite State Children's Alliance for the acquisition and/or rehabilitation
of 95 Water Street into a Model Child Advocacy Center
Motion to schedule a public hearing on January 23, 2017 during the regular City
Council meeting regarding a proposed application to the Community
Development Finance Authority for up to $500,000 in Community Development
Block Grant Funds for the benefit of the Granite State Childrens Alliance for the
acquisition and/or rehabilitation of 95 Water Street into a Model Child Advocacy
Center made by Councilor Bownes and seconded by Councilor Bolduc; the
motion passed with all in favor.
(3) Request to schedule a public hearing on January 23, 2017 during the regular City
Council meeting regarding the Residential Antidisplacement and Relocation Assistance
Plan associated with the Community Development Finance Authority application
Motion to schedule a public hearing on January 23, 2017 during the regular City
Council meeting regarding the Residential Antidisplacement and Relocation
Assistance Plan associated with the Community Development Finance
T
Authority application made by Councilor Bownes and seconded by Councilor
Doyle; the motion passed with all in favor.
AF
(4) Request to authorize City Manager to sign a Temporary Use Agreement (TUA) with the
State of New Hampshire that will allow the City to install and maintenance a retaining wall,
single phase transformer, and three phase sector cabinet within the NH DOT Railroad
corridor
Motion to authorize City Manager to sign a Temporary Use Agreement (TUA)
with the State of New Hampshire that will allow the City to install and
R
maintenance a retaining wall, single phase transformer, and three phase sector
cabinet within the NH DOT Railroad corridor made by Councilor Bownes and
seconded by Councilor Doyle; the motion passed with all in favor.
D
(5) City Manager performance evaluation
This item was discussed under the Mayor's Report.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
(1) Request to remove the stop signs on Holman Street at the intersection of Shore Drive
City Manager Myers advised that this item was tabled by the Council at their last
meeting and he was directed to solicit neighborhood input. Approximately 20
responses were received with the majority supporting leaving the stop signs in
place.
Motion to take this item off the table made by Councilor Lipman and seconded
by Councilor Bolduc; the motion passed with all in favor.
Motion to leave the stop signs in the current locations made by
Councilor Lipman and seconded by Councilor Hamel;
Page 15 of 51
A resident that has lived on Holman Street for many years advised the Council that
street is repaired and traffic is moving faster. He feels moving the stop signs would
create faster moving traffic and this would be a safety issue, particularly for those
walking on the street.
Peggy Selig agreed with the prior comment and feels the speed would become
worse if the stop signs were removed.
Mayor Engler called the question and the motion passed with all in favor.
(2) Unsolicited offer to purchase City-owned property at 23 Elm Street (Lakeport Fire
Station) and additional parcels in close proximity
NOMINATIONS, APPOINTMENTS & ELECTIONS
COUNCIL COMMENTS
NON-PUBLIC SESSION According to RSA 91-A:3, II
T
(a) The dismissal, promotion or compensation of any public employee, or the investigation of any charges
against him, unless the employee affected (1) has a right to a meeting and (2) requests that the meeting be
open, in which case the request shall be granted.
AF
(b) The hiring of any person as a public employee.
(c) Matters which, if discussed in public, would likely affect adversely the reputation of any person, other
than a member of the body or agency itself, unless such person requests an open meeting.
(d) Consideration of the acquisition, sale or lease of real or personal property which, if discussed in public,
would likely benefit a party or parties whose interests are adverse to those of the general community.
(e) Consideration or negotiation of pending claims or litigation which has been threatened in writing or filed
against the body or agency or any subdivision thereof, or against any member thereof because of his
R
membership in such body or agency, until the claim or litigation has been fully adjudicated or otherwise
settled.
(i) Consideration of matters relating to the preparation for and the carrying out of emergency functions
including training to carry out such functions, developed by local or state safety officials that are directly
D
intended to thwart a deliberate act that is intended to result in widespread or severe damage to property or
widespread injury or loss of life.
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
(1) Ordinance amendment relative to Chapter 167, Noise and Chapter 161, Licensing
as it pertains to outdoor sound equipment and loudspeakers (tabled at the meeting
of 9/28/15)
(2) Second reading of a resolution relative to the adoption of RSA 31:95-b,
Appropriation of funds made available during the year (tabled at the meeting of
11/23/15 pending the outcome of legal matters)
(3) Milfoil Treatment Funding Request
(4) Sewer & Water Master Plan
Page 16 of 51
(5) Single Stream Recycling/Concord Co-op/Solid Waste Disposal Cost Reduction
(6) Strategic Planning/Goal Setting
(7) WOW Trail
ADJOURNMENT
Motion to adjourn made at 10:13 p.m. by Councilor Baer and seconded by Councilor
Bolduc; the motion passed with all in favor.
Respectfully Submitted:
Stacy Anders
Deputy City Clerk
T
AF
R
D
Page 17 of 51
CITY COUNCIL ITEM INFORMATION SHEET
DATE SUBMITTED: 1/10/2017
FROM: Scott Myers, City Manager
SUBJECT: Request to establish rental fee for Boardwalk, Lakeport Fire Station and Weirs
Boulevard vending spaces for Laconia Motorcycle Week 2017
DISCUSSION:
Please see attached memo.
REQUESTED ACTION:
Proposed motion: "I move to approve rental fees for Laconia Motorcycle Week 2017 vending
spaces located on the Boardwalk, at the Lakeport Fire Station and on Weirs Boulevard as
presented."
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type Upload Date File Name
Memo re: Laconia
MC Week 2017 Cover Memo 1/10/2017 01.23.17_Council_memo_re_vending_space_cost.pdf
vending spaces
Page 18 of 51
CITY OF LACONIA/CITY MANAGER’S OFFICE
45 Beacon St. East, Laconia, NH 03246
(603) 527-1270 · fax (603) 527-1292
MEMO
TO: Mayor Engler & City Councilors
FROM: Scott Myers, City Manager
DATE: January 23, 2017
RE: Rent for Boardwalk, Lakeport Fire Station and Weirs Boulevard Spaces for
Laconia Motorcycle Week 2017
Last year the City Council voted to charge the following rental fees for vendor spaces for
Laconia Motorcycle Week 2016:
10’ x 12’ Boardwalk vending spaces………………………………………. $1,500 each
90 ft. block of space - Laconia Motorcycle Week Association………….. No charge
Weirs Boulevard - Six 10’ x 12’ spaces……………………………………. $550 each
(or one 12’ x 75’ space)……………………………………….. $2,000
Lakeport Fire Station - Six 10’ x 12’ spaces………………………………. $250 each
Prior to sending out vendor contracts, we would like to confirm with the Council the rental fees
for this year’s event.
Page 1
Page 19 of 51
CITY COUNCIL ITEM INFORMATION SHEET
DATE SUBMITTED: 1/10/2017
FROM: Scott Myers, City Manager
SUBJECT: Request from Lakes Region Sled Dog Club to waive license, vendor and
loudspeaker fees for the February 10 - 12, 2017 Sled Dog Event
DISCUSSION:
Please see attached request from the Sled Dog Club.
REQUESTED ACTION:
Proposed motion: "I move to approve the request from Lakes Region Sled Dog Club to waive
license, vendor and loudspeaker fees for the February 10 - 12, 2017 Sled Dog Event."
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type Upload Date File Name
Letter requesting Backup Material 1/10/2017 LR_Sled_Dog_Club_Waiver_Request.pdf
waiver of fees
Page 20 of 51
Page 21 of 51
CITY COUNCIL ITEM INFORMATION SHEET
DATE SUBMITTED: 1/10/2017
FROM: Scott Myers, City Manager
SUBJECT: Project Updates Report
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type Upload Date File Name
Project Updates Report Backup Material 1/18/2017 LACONIA_PROJECT_UPDATES_01-
2017.pdf
Page 22 of 51
LACONIA PROJECT UPDATES – January 2017
LACONIA ROAD PROJECTS PROPOSED FOR 2017
Current: DPW and Water Works has met to coordinate road projects for the 2017 construction
year. Proposed projects by both parties are being reviewed and then a tentative schedule will
be developed. The schedule will then be coordinated with the utility companies. The schedule
is being developed to ensure sufficient funds are available for the Lakeside Avenue project
which is being partially funded from this program.
Previous: Tremont Street and Mill Street were the last streets to be paved this season. We are
now incorporating crack sealing into our yearly street repair and maintenance program. Crack
sealing was accomplished on Gilford Avenue, Highland Street, Morrill Street, Stark Street, and
South Main Street.
MESSER STREET/DUTILE OIL DRAINAGE
Current: Loureiro Engineering is nearing completion of the design. Based on the design to date,
the project requires shoreland and wetland permits as well as permission from NH DOT to cross
under their railroad tracks. The Department’s plan is to start construction in July although it may
have to be delayed until the permits and railroad crossings are approved.
Previous: Cold weather has prevented further field work this season. Loureiro Engineering is
progressing with the drainage design along Messer Street and is researching options for the
replacement of the collapsing pipe under the tracks.
LAKESIDE AVENUE
Current: Hand holes have been placed. Eversource, Metrocast, Fairpoint, and the Fire
Department will start pulling cables by the first week of February. A delay occurred with
construction of one of the retaining walls as the NH DOT Bureau of Rail & Transit reversed their
position on an access agreement in the railroad right-of-way. Documentation has been
submitted for a Temporary Use Agreement that will allow the construction of the retaining wall
pending a final agreement for the wall to be in the railroad right of way. Eversource has
requested a meeting to discuss a cost increase in their part of the project.
Previous: The new water main and storm drain system have been completed. The main conduit
runs for the utilities have been run. Retaining walls for transformer pads and sector cabinets are
under construction. Light pole bases are being set as are utility hand-holes. Utility services to
businesses and homes will start after all street related utility work is in place. In the next few
weeks string and tape will be blown through the main runs so that the utilities can start pulling
cable.
LACONIA DOWNTOWN TIF DISTRICT
Current: The Downtown TIF Advisory Board recently held meetings on January 5th and January
10th. The January 5th meeting focused on the issues surrounding the Downtown Parking
Garage and the City Manager provided the Advisory Board with the latest information. The
Advisory Board and some members of the public expressed concerns about amount of time it
was taking to develop a plan for the garage and how parking in the Downtown area was an
important issue that needs to be resolved to help keep the positive momentum of development
City Manager’s Project Update Report Page 1
Page 23 of 51
occurring. At the January 10th meeting of the Downtown TIF Advisory Board, the discussion
revolved around the Downtown Parking Garage issue and how the Advisory Board could play a
role with providing input and options to the City Council.
Previous: The Downtown TIF Advisory Board last met on December 13th. Items discussed at
the meeting include the future of the parking garage, reuse of surplus flagpoles for Stewart
Park, wayfinding signage and banner poles. The Advisory Board discussion on the Downtown
parking garage focused on security, tenant concerns, the status of the top level and the impact
on parking with various projects in Downtown like the Colonial Theater. Parks and Recreation is
looking at reusing the old flagpoles that were removed during the Main Street Bridge project and
installing them in Stewart Park.
WEIRS TIF DISTRICT
Current: Next meeting is scheduled for February 1st.
Previous: No update.
WINNIPESAUKEE RIVER BASIN PROJECT
Current: The Advisory Board has not met since November 2016. The next meeting is
scheduled for Jan.19, 2017. Advisory Board members have been reviewing a NH bill that
changes the funding level for the WRBP’s capital account. Previously the funding level did not
include funds to repair or replace their underground collection system. The proposed bill will
include these systems in the funding level calculations. The proposed bill will be discussed at
the Jan.19th meeting.
Previous: The Advisory Board has not yet received a reply from the Attorney General on the
issue of the municipalities having to pay for the cost of the Program’s infrastructure if the
program is transferred to a municipally run authority. This is the critical first step in the process
to determine whether to create a separate Wastewater authority. NH DES staff expected an
answer from the Attorney General’s office in the next 30 days. The Board received questions
and criteria from four municipalities. The board reviewed them but is waiting on the answer
from the AG’s Office before proceeding further.
WEIRS BEACH RESTORATION
Current: A permit pre-application meeting with NHDES, Woods Hole Group and City staff is
being scheduled for the beginning of February to determine specific requirements relating to the
design and construction.
Previous: Parks and Recreation and DPW met on December 20th to review the final
engineering design and permitting. Sand fencing was installed this fall on the channel side of
the beach to reduce wind erosion. Parks and Recreation and DPW will be working with our
engineering consultant and the NHDES throughout the winter months to finalize engineering
plans and secure all permits. An update will be provided to the City Council in early 2017.
Construction activities related to the beach restoration and erosion mitigation are anticipated for
Fall 2017.
ZONING TASK FORCE
Current: ZTF Chair Suzanne Perley plans to present the proposed Accessory Dwelling Unit
changes to the Planning Board in February.
Previous: The ZTF has been delayed in meeting and anticipates meeting again in the New
Year.
City Manager’s Project Update Report Page 2
Page 24 of 51
DOWNTOWN WAYFINDING
Current: Parks and Recreation and DPW have scheduled a meeting on January 23rd to
discuss wayfinding signage design for areas of the WOW Trail and Downtown.
Previous: Representatives from Parks and Recreation, Downtown TIF Advisory Board and the
owners of the railroad station met to discuss the possibility of a primary kiosk location in the
back of the railroad station property. The color scheme of the wayfinding signage will need to
be determined since there was no action taken on a new City flag.
LACONIA HEART AND SOUL MASTER PLAN UPDATE
Current: The Planning Board and City Council have both expressed their desire to move
forward with working on the Master Plan with a committee of members from both Boards. The
Land Use and Vision chapters will likely be the main focus of the committee as it begins
meeting. Chapters remaining include Land Use, Housing, Community Services & Facilities, and
Historic & Cultural Resources.
Previous: The Master Plan process awaits discussion by the Planning Board and the Master
Plan Advisory Team.
MEMORIAL PARK IMPROVEMENTS
Current: The new bleacher system at the Memorial Park Softball Field was installed in
December and is now complete. Parks and Recreation is proposing a new park sign that will be
partially funded from donations.
Previous: The irrigation system for the baseball field has been installed. The system has been
connected to the water service. Remaining work entails installation of a water meter/backflow
and their enclosure and grass seeding of the trenches in the spring.
The new bleacher system for the softball field has been delivered and installation has started.
The project is expected to be completed by Christmas, weather permitting.
TRANSPORTATION ALTERNATIVES GRANT (TAP)
Current: Opechee Street survey detail has been completed and provided to the engineers.
Design is underway.
Previous: Winter Street survey detail (existing features and topography) completed by DPW has
been submitted to HEB Engineering. HEB has started boundary survey reconnaissance.
Opechee Street survey detail is nearly done.
DES WATERSHED ASSISTANCE GRANT
Current: No update.
City Manager’s Project Update Report Page 3
Page 25 of 51
Previous: Designs for pervious concrete panels for the parking lot at Weirs Beach have been
completed. Installation of the panels is on hold until archeological investigations can be
completed and funding is secured. A design for improvements to the Mount Washington service
road has been completed. Work on this road involves installation of a more stable road
surfacing.
LEAVITT PARK TENNIS COURTS
Current: No update. New court construction is planned for Spring 2017.
Previous: No update.
City Manager’s Project Update Report Page 4
Page 26 of 51
CITY COUNCIL ITEM INFORMATION SHEET
DATE SUBMITTED: 1/17/2017
FROM: Wesley Anderson, Director of Public Works
SUBJECT: Request to accept the Memorandum of Understanding between the Town of Gilford
and the City of Laconia regarding the Black Brook Pump Station Power Expense
Cost Sharing
DISCUSSION:
The City’s Black Brook sewage pump station on Union Avenue also receives sewage from the
Town of Gilford’s sewage system. Gilford’s percentage of the pump station’s flow is
approximately 31%. Traditionally the cost of electricity to operate the pump station has been
divided between the two municipalities based on the amount of sewage received from Gilford.
For many years DPW provided Gilford’s share of the Black Brook electrical operating costs to
the Winnipesaukee River Basin Staff and their staff credited Laconia’s account in the amount of
Gilford’s share of the power cost and added that amount to Gilford’s operation and maintenance
Invoice. The Department of Environmental Services recently centralized all financial services
and will no longer make the adjustment. Therefore the two City’s must implement an agreement
to formalize the cost transfer.
The attached Memorandum of Understanding will formalize the agreement for this annual
payment until such time that a more definitive cost share agreement can be developed between
the two municipalities.
REQUESTED ACTION:
It is staff recommendation to approve the attached agreement and authorize the City Manager to
sign the document on behalf of the City.
Proposed motion: "I move to accept the Memorandum of Understanding between the Town of
Gilford and the City of Laconia regarding the Black Brook Pump Station Power Expense Cost
Sharing and to authorize the City Manager to sign the document on behalf of the City"
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type Upload Date File Name
Memorandum of Backup Material 1/18/2017 MOU_for_Black_Brook_Pump_Station.pdf
Understanding
Page 27 of 51
Page 28 of 51
CITY COUNCIL ITEM INFORMATION SHEET
DATE SUBMITTED: 1/4/2017
FROM: Wesley Anderson, Director of Public Works
SUBJECT: Request for no-parking on sections of Mechanic Street and Warren Street
DISCUSSION:
Public Works requests the City Council amend the City’s Parking Ordinance. There are areas
on two City streets that staff requests to make no parking. They are:
1. Mechanic Street: No Parking, Standing, or Stopping on both sides of the road from the
intersection of Union Avenue to the end of house at #29 Mechanic Street.
Rationale: The travel way is narrow with a curve in close proximity to the Union Avenue
intersection. Site distance is significantly compromised when cars, trucks, trailers, etc. are
parked, stopped to drop someone off, or standing to load or unload equipment on Mechanic
Street for any reason. Such parking has forced cars into the opposing lane on a curve with
limited site distance. Vehicles have at times parked over the public sidewalk forcing
pedestrians into the travel way. This request would minimize the public safety issue. PW staff
met with the several store managers in the Seven Gables Mall and with the owner of 11
Mechanic Street. Staff also spoke with Tom Cantin of Cantin Chevrolet and Donald Kendall of
29 Mechanic Street. They are all agreeable to the proposed no-parking, standing, or stopping
restriction in this area. Lastly, we spoke with John Moriarty who owns the Seven Gables Mall.
John understands the situation and while not happy about the parking restrictions, he is
supportive.
2. Warren Street: No parking on both sides of Warren Street from the easterly property sideline
of house #49 to the westerly property sideline of house #86.
Rationale: The crest of the steep hill is near the house at #68 Warren Street. One of the
Warren Street residents called DPW requesting that we look at what they thought was a
dangerous situation with parking near the crest of the hill. PW’s analysis determined that the
steep hill creates a very serious site distance issue. No matter which direction vehicles are
traveling, there is no reaction time to avoid swerving into the opposite lane to avoid a parked car
near the crest. DPW sent letters to the 14 Warren Street residents that would be affected by
this proposed parking ban. Seven residents responded with 6 in favor of the no-parking ban
and one strongly opposed to the ban. The owner of #68 Warren Street (Marc Burrell) is the
most affected. His small driveway is close to the crest of the hill and he is concerned that he will
not be able to have people visit. We responded that if this passed, he could have visitors but
they would need to park approximately 3 houses away.
Page 29 of 51
REQUESTED ACTION:
Staff recommends the following:
1. No parking, standing or stopping on Mechanic Street from Union Avenue to 29 Mechanic
Street
2. No parking on Warren Street from the easterly property sideline from 49 Warren Street to the
westerly property sideline of 86 Warren Street.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type Upload Date File Name
Mechanic Street Backup Material 1/18/2017 Mechanic_Street.pdf
Warren Street Backup Material 1/18/2017 Warren_Street.pdf
Page 30 of 51
Mechanic Street
Page 31 of 51
Warren Street
Page 32 of 51
CITY COUNCIL ITEM INFORMATION SHEET
DATE SUBMITTED: 1/17/2017
FROM: Wesley Anderson, Director of Public Works
SUBJECT: Update on the effort to resolve the issue with maintaining unaccepted and private
streets
DISCUSSION:
Public Works is finalizing the plan to resolve the issue with maintaining unaccepted and private
streets. The concept for prioritizing the Department’s effort is to first focus on those streets in
the Downtown core area and Lakeport. After finishing these streets the focus changes to paved
streets in the rural areas and then to concentrate on gravel streets and the streets in the Weirs
beach area. Exception streets will be fit into the process based on similarities with other streets.
Staff to reduce the City’s risk during the resolution process is requesting that the City Council
designate six streets as emergency lanes. These streets are a combination of private and
unaccepted streets (Attachment 1). The City’s Attorney has reviewed this list and concurs that
they all meet emergency lane statutory requirements. The six streets are not at the top of the
priority list and designating them as emergency lanes as an interim measure reduces potential
liabilities. A public hearing is required and abutters must be given 10 days advance notice in
writing. Only one public hearing is required.
The first two streets for acceptance “as is”, Tremont and Park, will be test cases for the
resolution process. Staff has met with the City Attorney and will provide them a file of all
documentation on these two streets on January 20, 2017. The City Attorney will review the
documentation to determine the proper method of making these two streets public highways.
Staff expects that the Attorney will find that a public hearing is required. If a hearing is required
abutters and their mortgage companies must have 30 days advance notice of the hearing. Staff
will request City Council establish a date for a public hearing for these two streets once the
Attorney determines which method to use in making the roads Class V (5) public highways.
Staff Recommendation:
City Council approve the concept for prioritizing the Department’s effort and schedule a public
hearing on designating the six streets at attachment 1 as emergency lanes.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type Upload Date File Name
Street Lists Backup Material 1/18/2017 Street_List.pdf
Maps Backup Material 1/18/2017 maps_for_Jan_23.pdf
Page 33 of 51
As of Jan 13, 2017
Initial request for Emergency Lane Declaration
Street From To Justification
Chapin Terrace is a dead end and the plow trucks use this section of Bell Street to go to
Bell Street Chapin Terrace Franklin
Franklin Street versus having to back down Chapin Terrace to the next cross street.
Durkee and Addison are both dead-end roads. The trucks would have to back up the
Crossover Durkee Addison length of Durkee and Addison to plow these streets. The crossover allows the plow
truck to plow in loop on the 2 streets.
Channel Lane Dead end Endicott Rd Provides access to City owned pump station at the west end of the lane.
Public Highway Public Highway Provides access to City owned pump station at the end of Hillcrest and efficiently plow
Hillcrest
section section the section of the road that is a public highway
Meredith Center Allows plow trucks to efficiently move from one section of the City to another reducing
Lane Road Parade Road
Road the time required for snow removal
Meredith Center Allows plow trucks to efficiently move from one section of the City to another reducing
Pickerel Pond Road Parade Road
Road the time required for snow removal
As of January 13, 2016
Initial request to Accept As-Is (Test Cases)
Street From To Sanborn Insurance Maps First City Survey/Plan Records
Park Street Elm Street Gold Street 1911 1940 Survey
Tremont Street Pleasant North Main Street 1911 1910 Survey
Page 34 of 51
Page 35 of 51
Page 36 of 51
Page 37 of 51
Page 38 of 51
Page 39 of 51
Page 40 of 51
Page 41 of 51
Page 42 of 51
CITY COUNCIL ITEM INFORMATION SHEET
DATE SUBMITTED: 1/10/2017
FROM: Scott Myers, City Manager
SUBJECT: Margaret Selig - seeking appointment to a regular position on the Trustees of the
Trust Fund for a three-year term expiring at the end of March, 2019 (1 vacant regular
position available)
DISCUSSION:
Interviews of those individuals applying for appointment to various Boards and Commissions
were held at the January 9, 2017 City Council meeting.
REQUESTED ACTION:
Proposed motion: "I move to appoint Margaret Selig to a regular position on the Trustees of
the Trust Fund for a three-year term expiring at the end of March, 2019."
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type Upload Date File Name
Margaret Selig Backup Material 1/17/2017 Margaret_Selig_Trustees__Application.pdf
Application
Page 43 of 51
Page 44 of 51
Page 45 of 51
CITY COUNCIL ITEM INFORMATION SHEET
DATE SUBMITTED: 1/10/2017
FROM: Scott Myers, City Manager
SUBJECT: Elizabeth Merry - seeking appointment to a regular position on the Planning Board
DISCUSSION:
Interviews of those individuals applying for appointment to various Boards and Commissions
were held at the January 9, 2017 City Council meeting.
There are two vacant regular positions and one alternate position available. Of the two regular
positions, one appointment would be to fill the unexpired term of Jerry Mailloux (expiring at the
end of June, 2017); the other would be to fill the unexpired term of Warren Hutchins (expiring at
the end of June, 2018). Both Mr. Mailloux and Mr. Hutchins resigned from the Planning Board in
2016.
The alternate position would expire at the end of June, 2019
REQUESTED ACTION:
If the Council wishes to appoint Ms. Merry to one of the available Planning Board positions, a
motion would be in order to appoint her to one of the two regular positions or the alternate
position as described above.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type Upload Date File Name
Elizabeth Merry Backup Material 1/17/2017 Liz_Merry_Planning_Board_Application_for_Agenda.pdf
Application
Page 46 of 51
Page 47 of 51
Page 48 of 51
CITY COUNCIL ITEM INFORMATION SHEET
DATE SUBMITTED: 1/10/2017
FROM: Scott Myers, City Manager
SUBJECT: Charlie St. Clair - seeking appointment to a regular position on the Planning Board
DISCUSSION:
Interviews of those individuals applying for appointment to various Boards and Commissions
were held at the January 9, 2017 City Council meeting.
There are two vacant regular positions and one alternate position available. Of the two regular
positions, one appointment would be to fill the unexpired term of Jerry Mailloux (expiring at the
end of June, 2017); the other would be to fill the unexpired term of Warren Hutchins (expiring at
the end of June, 2018). Both Mr. Mailloux and Mr. Hutchins resigned from the Planning Board in
2016.
Mr. St. Clair is currently an alternate on the Planning Board; he has expressed an interest in moving
from the alternate position to a regular position.
REQUESTED ACTION:
If the Council wishes to appoint Mr. St. Clair to one of the available Planning Board positions, a
motion would be in order to appoint him to one of the two regular positions as described above.
ATTACHMENTS:
Description Type Upload Date File Name
Charlie St. Clair Backup Material 1/17/2017 Charlie_St._Clair_PB_Application.pdf
Application
Page 49 of 51
Page 50 of 51
Page 51 of 51
Get email alerts for Laconia
A daily email when new agendas and minutes are posted.