City Council

CITY OF LACONIA - CITY COUNCIL MEETING July 13, 2020 7:00 P.M. 7/13/2020 - Minutes 1. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Hosmer called the meeting to order at the above date and time. As Mayor of the Laconia City Council, due to the COVID-19/Coronavirus crisis and in accordance with Governor Sununu’s Emergency Order #12 pursuant to Executive Order 2020-04, this Board is authorized to meet electronically. Please note that there is no physical location to observe and listen to the meeting, which was authorized pursuant to the Governor’s Emergency Order. However, in accordance with the Emergency Order, this is to confirm that we are: a) Providing public access to the meeting by telephone, with additional access possibilities by video or other electronic means; We are utilizing the Zoom platform for this electronic meeting. All Council Members have the ability to communicate during this meeting through the Zoom platform, and the public has access to watch the live YouTube video at https://www.youtube.com/laconianh, listen to this meeting through dialing the following phone # 1-312-626-6799 or participate by the Zoom app: Webinar ID: 894 8188 3700 password 796425 b) Providing public notice of the necessary information for accessing the meeting; We previously gave notice to the public of how to access the meeting using Zoom, and instructions are provided on the City of Laconia’s website at: www.laconianh.gov. c) Providing a mechanism for the public to alert the public body during the meeting if there are problems with access; If anybody has a problem, please call 524-3877 x 249 or email at: cityclerk@laconianh.gov d) Adjourning the meeting if the public is unable to access the meeting. In the event the public is unable to access the meeting, we will adjourn the meeting and have it rescheduled at that time. Please note that all votes that are taken during this meeting shall be done by Roll Call vote. Let’s start the meeting by taking a Roll Call attendance. When each member states their presence, also please state whether there is anyone in the room with you during this meeting, which is required under the Right-to-Know law. 2. SALUTE TO THE FLAG Councilor Haynes lead the Salute to the Flag. 3. RECORDING SECRETARY Cheryl Hebert, City Clerk 4. ROLL CALL City Clerk Hebert took a roll call vote: Councilor Cheney YES, (physically present) Councilor Lipman YES, Is anyone in the room with you? NO Councilor Haynes YES, (physically present) Councilor Hamel YES, Is anyone in the room with you? NO  Councilor Lipman YES, Is anyone in the room with you? NO Councilor Haynes YES, (physically present) Councilor Hamel YES, Is anyone in the room with you? NO Councilor Felch YES, Is anyone in the room with you? NO Mayor Hosmer noted that all five (5) Councilors were in attendance and a quorum was established. Mayor Hosmer spoke of the recent passing of Councilor David Bownes. Mayor Hosmer briefed Councilor Bownes obituary and expressed his condolences to Councilor Bownes family. 5. STAFF IN ATTENDANCE Scott Myers, City Manager Glenn Smith, Finance Director 6. COUNCIL PROCLAMATION 7. ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES FROM PREVIOUS MEETINGS 7.A. Special budget meeting minutes of June 22, 2020 Minutes of the meeting were distributed to the City Council on Tuesday, June 23, 2020. With no corrections or changes submitted to the Clerk, the minutes will be accepted as distributed. 7.B. Regular meeting minutes of June 22, 2020 Minutes of the meeting were distributed to the City Council on Wednesday, June 24, 2020. With no corrections or changes submitted to the Clerk, the minutes will be accepted as distributed. 7.C. Special budget meeting minutes of June 29, 2020 Minutes of the meeting were distributed to the City Council on Thursday, July 2, 2020. With no corrections or changes submitted to the Clerk, the minutes will be accepted as distributed. 8. CONSENT & ACTION ITEMS 9. CITIZEN COMMENTS FOR MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA Thomas Daly, 208-210 Leighton Ave N - Would like to make the Council aware of a process issue that he has been having with the Code Department regarding a demolition permit. Mr. Daly's General Contractor contacted the Code Department on May 28, 2020 via email advising the office of an upcoming project on Lake Winnisquam. The homes of 208 and 210 Leighton Ave were going to be torn down. The General Contractor wanted to find out the turn around time to be issue a demolition permit. A response was received a few hours later that stated the turn around time would depend on how fast each department gets back the form to the Code Department. It was also stated that asbestos testing needed to be done but it shouldn't be more than eight or nine days. The specific issue that Mr. Daly is encountering is the two properties in question were built in 1954 and 1957, which requires a sign off from the Laconia Heritage Commission. The problem with this is that no where on the Laconia Website or builder resource guide does it explain what needs to be submitted or where it needs to be submitted or how to get anything added to the Heritage Commission agenda. Because of the lack of information this item missed the deadline for the Heritage Commission's July 8th meeting. Mr. Daly suggests to the City and Code to improve the processes for future instances like this. Because of the lack of information being clear, there is at least a four week delay to start the project. City Manager Myers spoke to Mr. Daly shortly before this meeting and offered to work with the Heritage Commission Chair to schedule a special meeting for this item. Nothing says that the Heritage Commission needs to render a decision on a demolition permit at that meeting so CM Myers encouraged Mr. Daly to take as many pictures as possible to present to the Commission so that there isn't any unanswered questions. Mr. Daly had reached out to Councilor Cheney first who then in turn contacted the City  start the project. City Manager Myers spoke to Mr. Daly shortly before this meeting and offered to work with the Heritage Commission Chair to schedule a special meeting for this item. Nothing says that the Heritage Commission needs to render a decision on a demolition permit at that meeting so CM Myers encouraged Mr. Daly to take as many pictures as possible to present to the Commission so that there isn't any unanswered questions. Mr. Daly had reached out to Councilor Cheney first who then in turn contacted the City Manager. Thomas Daly did state that the staff and City Manager has been extremely helpful during this process. 10. INTERVIEWS 11. NOMINATIONS, APPOINTMENTS & ELECTIONS 12. COMMUNICATIONS 13. PUBLIC HEARINGS 13.A. Public hearing on the proposed project - Laconia Housing Authority improvements to Sunrise Towers and wall renovations between Sunrise Towers and Sunrise House Mayor Hosmer read the background to this request. Notice of this public hearing was made available in the July 1, 2020 edition of the Laconia Daily Sun and posted at City Hall, Community Center, and Laconia Public Library on June 29, 2020. Informational packets were made available to the public on the website. Mayor Hosmer opened the public hearing at 7:23:43 pm Thomas Cochrane, Executive Director of Laconia Housing, thanked the Mayor, City of Laconia, and City Manager for allowing the submission of this application. Mr. Cochrane gave a brief background to Laconia Housing and the application. Mayor Hosmer read into the record: "Community Development Block Grant funds are available to municipalities through the NH Community Development Finance Authority. Up to $500,000 annually is available on a competitive basis for public facility projects, up to $500,000 for housing projects, up to $500,000 for economic development projects, and up to $500,000 annually is available for emergency activities. Up to $25,000 is available per planning study. All projects must primarily benefit low- and moderate-income persons. This is a proposed application to the Community Development Finance Authority for up to $500,000 in Community Development Block Grant Housing funds. The CDBG funds will be used for improvements to the Laconia Housing Authority’s properties. The project includes 70 - 98 energy efficient and handicap accessible door replacement units with windows, and other housing improvements at Sunrise Towers. Also a wall renovation between the upper and lower parking lots between Sunrise Towers, 25 Union Ave, and Sunrise House, 423 South Main St, to enhance accessibility for all tenants, especially those with mobility issues, to allow them to access service amenities at both properties. The clients at the properties are of low and moderate income and with disabilities. This project conforms with Laconia’s Housing and Community Development Plan’s Goal of: Goal: Encourage a varied stock of safe, sanitary, decent and affordable housing for persons of all age and income groups. (Short-term and Long-term goal)." Hearing no comment from the public, Mayor Hosmer closed the public hearing at 7:27 pm. 13.B. Public hearing on the Residential anti-displacement and Relocation Assistant Plan  Goal: Encourage a varied stock of safe, sanitary, decent and affordable housing for persons of all age and income groups. (Short-term and Long-term goal)." Hearing no comment from the public, Mayor Hosmer closed the public hearing at 7:27 pm. 13.B. Public hearing on the Residential anti-displacement and Relocation Assistant Plan Mayor Hosmer read the background information on this item. Notice of this public hearing was made available in the July 1, 2020 edition of the Laconia Daily Sun, and posted at City Hall, Community Center, and Laconia Public Library on June 29, 2020. Mayor Hosmer opened the public hearing at 7:29 pm. Donna Lane clarified that this is for the Laconia Housing Authority Project. "This Plan states in general, that if the City were to undertake a CDBG project which involved displacement and resulting relocation they would follow the Uniform Relocation Act requirements. The Residential Anti-displacement and Relocation Assistance Plan outlines the measures they would take to find comparable, housing for persons (or businesses) displaced and/or relocated. This project may require temporary relocation. If required, tenants would be temporarily relocated to a unit on site or a local hotel. LHA will pay relocation costs." Hearing no other comments from the public, Mayor Hosmer closed the public hearing at 7:30 pm. 13.C. Public hearing on the progress on Lakes Region Community Developer's CDBG 85-87 Elm Street property renovation Notice of this public hearing was made available in the July 1, 2020 edition of the Laconia Daily Sun and posted at City Hall, Community Center, and Laconia Public Library on June 29, 2020. Mayor Hosmer opened the public hearing at 7:31 pm. Mayor Hosmer read for the record: "The Lakes Region Community Developers project is renovations at 85-87 Elm St, a four unit property. A unit needs a complete rehabilitation, and the project includes roofing, siding repairs, and replacement of a fire escape. The project is 70% complete." Hearing no comment from the public, Mayor Hosmer closed the public hearing at 7:32 pm. 13.D. Public hearing for Resolution 2020-12, relative to authorizing application for a two- million-dollar loan from the New Hampshire Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund for the Elm Street Sewer Project and appropriating for the same Notice of this public hearing was made available in the June 24, 2020 edition of the Laconia Daily Sun, and posted at City Hall, Laconia Public Library, Community Center, and SAU. Mayor Hosmer opened the public hearing at 7:33 pm Hearing no comments from the public, Mayor Hosmer closed the public hearing at 7:34 pm. 14. PRESENTATIONS 15. MAYOR'S REPORT Mayor Hosmer mentioned and thanked the owners for opening of their new businesses in Laconia: Karen Bassett and Kevin Bullerwell for the opening of the Lakeport Wayfarer Jose of Eyeglass Spywear in downtown Laconia  Mayor Hosmer mentioned and thanked the owners for opening of their new businesses in Laconia: Karen Bassett and Kevin Bullerwell for the opening of the Lakeport Wayfarer Jose of Eyeglass Spywear in downtown Laconia On behalf of the City, Mayor Hosmer wished them well. 16. COMMITTEE REPORTS 16.A. FINANCE (Lipman (Chair), Hamel, Cheney) Councilor Lipman reminded everyone that there will be a Finance Committee meeting immediately following this meeting to discuss refinancing options on existing loans. 16.A.i. WOW Trail Funding 16.A.ii. Downtown TIF Financing 16.B. PUBLIC SAFETY (Cheney (Chair), Bownes, Lipman) 16.C. GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS & ORDINANCES (Bownes (Chair), Felch, Cheney) 16.C.i. Review of Chapter 167, Noise and Chapter 161 Licensing as it pertains to outdoor sound equipment and loudspeakers 16.C.ii. Ordinance Amending Chapter 221, Vehicles and Traffic/Parking on Sublawns 16.C.iii. Procedural review of grant applications 16.C.iv. Regulation of Short Term Residential Rental Businesses 16.C.v. Proposed Historic Overlay District 16.C.vi. Scenic Road Motorcycle Noise Petition 16.D. LANDS & BUILDINGS (Hamel (Chair), Haynes, Felch) 16.D.i. Downtown parking garage 16.D.ii. Repair & maintenance of City buildings 16.D.iii. Perley Pond Maintenance 16.D.iv. Plan for the DPW Compound 16.D.v. Continuation of the discussion regarding parking in the Lakeport area 16.E. PUBLIC WORKS (Haynes (Chair), Felch, Bownes) 16.E.i. Retaining Wall Policy 17. LIAISON REPORTS 18. CITIZENS REQUESTS TO COMMENT ON CURRENT AGENDA ITEMS Les Schuster, Lazy-E Motor Inn - Mr. Schuster is still dismayed that the Council is still talking about Motorcycle Week, especially where the numbers in New Hampshire are low. Mr. Schuster thought that the City would have put signs up during the Fourth of July holiday weekend to encourage social distancing. 18. CITIZENS REQUESTS TO COMMENT ON CURRENT AGENDA ITEMS Les Schuster, Lazy-E Motor Inn - Mr. Schuster is still dismayed that the Council is still talking about Motorcycle Week, especially where the numbers in New Hampshire are low. Mr. Schuster thought that the City would have put signs up during the Fourth of July holiday weekend to encourage social distancing. Meghan Doptis, General Manager of Tower Hill Tavern - spoke in favor of having Motorcycle Week and encourages the City to work together with the Motorcycle Week Association. Dave, Baker Ave and General Manager of The Dive - stated he is in support of having motorcycle week and want it as normal as possible. Jose Dematos - read for the record a prepared statement - "I am disappointed, I was hoping I would be able to see you all , face to face this evening, or should I say eye to eye. As quickly as possible, I wanted each of you to know that I share the concerns that some of you have regarding the safety and well being of our city employees, tourists, hospital workers, our families, friends, and ourselves with all the challenges that COVID-19 has presented to us. You are all very well aware of all the anxiety, stress, and economic hardship this has placed on so many of us here and elsewhere. Everyone understands that we are living in a completely different world than just a few months ago and no one is expecting Motorcycle Week to look anything like it has in the last 96 years. Motorcycle Week is not about packed beer tents, or vendors all jammed onto Lakeside avenue. It is about riding Motorcycles in the open air of our beautiful State and being with your family, friends and fellow Motorcycle enthusiasts. I urge you to PLEASE work with the Motorcycle Week Association, local business owners, the state and city departments to ensure the most organized and safest Motorcycle Week possible during this pandemic. I see no difference, nor should there be, between my guests, that were just here enjoying everything our area and what the state has to offer during the 4th of July and my guests scheduled in August looking to enjoy the same thing but on 2 wheels. I trust you understand the economic importance of those days to us and so many businesses, employees, our city and the State of NH. Motorcycle Week can occur safely with open minded, honest and logical communication between all parties, AND all the policies, procedures and guidelines that ALL of us are already living with every day.Thank you for your time and consideration!" Kimberly Danosi - 33 Windjammer Ridge - Spoke of Motorcycle Week and the children of Laconia. Ms. Danosi spoke of any increases in COVID-19 cases in Laconia could delay the opening of the schools. Ms. Danosi asked the Council to choose in favor of the children and let them go back to school in a normal fashion and please choose education over entertainment. Representative Charlie St. Clair - Representative St. Clair would like to assure that the Motorcycle Association will be doing everything in its power to ensure COVID-19 precautions are taken. The Association is ready to work with the City as well as to ensure all CDC guidelines are being followed. Sarah and Aaron Gray, Owner of Bodycovers - is in support of the Motorcycle Week rally because it is tradition. Mrs. Gray believes the tourists will come either way as they are already here. Les Schuster, Lazy-E Motor Inn - stated it is exciting to hear positive feedback. Mr. Schuster is concerned about the comment in regards to the children in Laconia. Mr. Schuster stated if there was any event that shouldn't effect kids, it is Motorcycle Week. Mr. Schuster stated that maybe the City needs to state that school officials not attend large events. 19. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT 19.A. Financial and Operational Trends Report City Manager Myers reviewed the report. 20. NEW BUSINESS 20.A. Discussion pertaining to Lakeport Landing and the faux fire tower Councilor Cheney spoke with the City Attorney back in late April/early May and provided her with paperwork, which she said at that time she had not seen before. Councilor Cheney read a portion of a letter that the City Attorney sent to the City Manager: "It is clear that it is everyone's understanding that the hose tower will look like brick when all is said and done. However the wording in the purchase and sales agreement requires the renovations be done in accordance with the vote authorizing the sale of the property. The vote authorizing the sale of the property requires the final Councilor Cheney spoke with the City Attorney back in late April/early May and provided her with paperwork, which she said at that time she had not seen before. Councilor Cheney read a portion of a letter that the City Attorney sent to the City Manager: "It is clear that it is everyone's understanding that the hose tower will look like brick when all is said and done. However the wording in the purchase and sales agreement requires the renovations be done in accordance with the vote authorizing the sale of the property. The vote authorizing the sale of the property requires the final design closely resembles the rending in the proposal. This of course is subjective rather than objective." Another part of the letter read: "The City certainly has a good faith action to acquire the hose tower to be covered with a brick facade. I can not guarantee however, that a court would find that the final design does not closely resemble a rendering." Councilor Cheney then refers to February of 2017 where Lakeport Landing submitted a proposal for the purchase of the property. Included in that proposal was a narrative and a picture that both propose a faux brick fire tower. On April 23, 2018 in the letter from Lakeport Landing Marina, there were drawings submitted to also show a faux brick fire tower. (Councilor Cheney showed pictures) Councilor Cheney reviewed correspondence between the City Manager, Dean Trefethen, Planning Director, and Ms. Blizzard, the owner of Lakeport Landing. On August 28, 2019 an email was sent to Ms. Blizzard from Director Trefethen stating that several of the City Councilors have asked on several occasions when the faux brick fire tower will be installed. Ms. Blizzard responded stating that she believed the faux brick tower and the landscaping are the only two items left outstanding on the project. She also stated the hose tower is going to end up being sided with some sort of corrugated shake. On another occasion Ms. Blizzard asked if the City had any paperwork stating she would install a faux brick tower. On September 18, 2019 Director Trefethen sent an email to Ms. Blizzard that stated: "Steward Associates included architectural renderings and sheet A2.1 has a callout for "simulated brick panels" and the drawing looks like brick." (Councilor Cheney showed the diagram) Ms. Blizzard sent an emal to Director Trefethen that stated "While the renditions were drawn to convey the hose tower as having brick, it was done as a visual to people to convey it was a tower. To be perfectly honest, I'm really taken back (shocked) that the City is so concerned about a brick hose tower on a building they left abandoned since the mid 1980's." On February 7, in a communication between Councilor Cheney and Erika Blizzard, Ms. Blizzard wrote in the second paragraph "The purchase and sales agreement shall be based upon the proposal submitted on February 7, 2017 and with the final design approved/constructed to closely resemble the rendering in the proposal. I have reviewed every rendering supplied by Stewart Associates, including the ones submitted on February 7 and not one of them fails to represent the hose tower as red." Councilor Cheney pointed out that he has not seen any rendering that shows anything but the proposed faux brick tower. Councilor Cheney thinks it is the obligation of the City to require Ms. Blizzard to finish the project as submitted with the faux brick tower. Councilor Cheney moved to authorize the City Manager to contact the City Solicitor and ask her to proceed with whatever action is necessary to require the tower to be clad in simulated brick, seconded by Councilor Haynes; Councilor Felch understands the sentimental value around the faux brick tower but he stated he has a hard time with the City giving businesses a hard time. Councilor Felch stated the building had been unsafe for many years. Councilor Lipman doesn't think anyone is giving anyone a hard time. Councilor Lipman stated the City bent over backwords to work with Ms. Blizzard and that should be recognized. If it weren't for the actions of the City Council Ms. Blizzard wouldn't have been able to maintain her business. Councilor Lipman thinks that for those that have worked for more than a decade with Councilor Bolduc and those that have come forward that have expressed concern with the project, that there is a sense of honor that Councilor Cheney is asking Ms. Blizzard to follow through on. Councilor Lipman is asking Ms. Blizzard to honor late Councilor Bolduc's wishes and having taken his seat, Councilor Lipman would think Councilor Felch would want the same thing, to honor Councilor Bolducs wishes. Councilor Lipman said he would prefer all avenues be exhausted before going to litigation. the actions of the City Council Ms. Blizzard wouldn't have been able to maintain her business. Councilor Lipman thinks that for those that have worked for more than a decade with Councilor Bolduc and those that have come forward that have expressed concern with the project, that there is a sense of honor that Councilor Cheney is asking Ms. Blizzard to follow through on. Councilor Lipman is asking Ms. Blizzard to honor late Councilor Bolduc's wishes and having taken his seat, Councilor Lipman would think Councilor Felch would want the same thing, to honor Councilor Bolducs wishes. Councilor Lipman said he would prefer all avenues be exhausted before going to litigation. Councilor Hamel agrees with Councilor Lipman. Councilor Hamel would like to see more discussion happen before legal action. He also stated Councilor Cheney presented more evidence than he was previously aware of. Councilor Hamel also stated that the building was in fact safe and the reason that part of it was taken down was so Ms. Blizzard could put a three-story building rather than two- story building. Councilor Hamel expressed his concern that when the occupancy permit was given that maybe it should not have been until the building was looked at more clearly to be sure it was built as it was proposed. Councilor Haynes thinks Councilor Cheney did a wonderful job presenting his case. This also speaks that when the City acts in good faith and when someone else just does what they want then action should be taken. Mayor Hosmer appreciates and respects Councilor Cheney's thoughts and concerns but disagrees with him as well. Mayor Hosmer thinks when a person makes such a large investment in their business and puts it on the line the City should find ways to support that person. The fact that Ms. Blizzard still included the two garage bays and the tower which serve no fuction to her business shows that she was helping to preserve some sentiment to the Fire Station. Mayor Hosmer thinks this is waste of time. Mayor Hosmer stated if he had a vote in this he would not support it. He also said we all hold Armand Bolduc in high honor but pushing someone to vote a certain way because they hold his seat is not okay. Everyone here is elected and we are called upon to make up our own minds base on the relationship and responsibility to our constituents. Councilor Lipman does not think that what the Mayor just outlined on the history of the building is accurate. He does think that that City bent over backwards to make this work for Ms. Blizzard. Furthermore there were certain ethical and moral respresentations made about it and thinks that all of that should be upheld. Councilor Lipman does not think the City is hassling them at all. Councilor Lipman stated all they are asking them to do is what they represented. Mayor Hosmer said when you put a large amount of money into a building and it goes on the tax rolls, there needs to be some sort of appreciation. Mayor Hosmer understands the emotional attachment but also thinks someone going above and beyond and searching for the Lakeport Fire Station lettering and not being able to find it, then investing more money to reproduce it says something as well. Councilor Lipman responded to Mayor Hosmer's comments expressing those were opinions not facts. Councilor Lipman was in support of Ms. Blizzard's business as that family has worked very hard to establish the business. The City bent over backwords to make that work for her, and all the City is asking for in return is to fullfill her obligations. Councilor Cheney agrees with Councilor Lipman that all avenues should be pursued before legal action is taken and would like to amend the motion to reflect that. Councilor Haynes agrees to the friendly amendment. CM Myers stated once all avenues are taken and if legal action is necessary, then he will bring estimated numbers back to the Council. Mayor Hosmer called the amended question: City Clerk Hebert took a roll call vote: Councilor Cheney YES Councilor Lipman YES Councilor Haynes YES  Councilor Cheney YES Councilor Lipman YES Councilor Haynes YES Councilor Hamel YES Councilor Felch NO the motion passed with four (4) in favor and one (1) opposed. 20.B. Request to set polling hours for the State Primary and State General Elections Councilor Cheney moved to approve the polling hours for the State Primary and State General Elections being held on September 8, 2020 and November 3, 2020 respectively from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, seconded by Councilor Haynes; City Clerk Hebert took a roll call vote: Councilor Cheney YES Councilor Lipman YES Councilor Haynes YES Councilor Hamel YES Councilor Felch YES; the motion passed with all in favor. 20.C. Transfer of $40,000 to the Non-Capital Reserve Accrued Leave Account Mayor Hosmer explained the background to this request. Councilor Cheney moved to approve the transfer of $40,000 from Salary Accounts to the Non-Capital Reserve Accrued Leave Account in Fiscal Year 20 as proposed, seconded by Councilor Haynes; Councilor Lipman asked for a moment as his screen froze and he would like to refer to his paper packet. Mayor Hosmer called the question; City Clerk Hebert took a roll call vote; Councilor Cheney YES Councilor Lipman YES Councilor Haynes YES Councilor Hamel YES Councilor Felch YES; the motion passed with all in favor. 21. UNFINISHED BUSINESS  Councilor Felch YES; the motion passed with all in favor. 21. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 21.A. Second reading of Resolution 2020-12, relative to authorizing application for a two-million-dollar loan from the New Hampshire Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund for the Elm Street Sewer Project and appropriating funds for the same Mayor Hosmer explained the background to this request. Councilor Cheney moved to waive a reading of this Resolution in its entirety and to read by title only, seconded by Councilor Haynes; City Clerk Hebert took a roll call vote: Councilor Cheney YES Councilor Lipman YES Councilor Haynes YES Councilor Hamel YES Councilor Felch YES; the motion passed with all in favor. Councilor Cheney moved a second reading of Resolution 2020-12, a resolution authorizing application for a two-million-dollar loan from the New Hampshire Clean Water Revolving Loan Fund for the Elm Street Sewer Project and appropriating funds for same, seconded by Councilor Haynes; City Clerk Hebert took a roll call vote: Councilor Cheney YES Councilor Lipman YES Councilor Haynes YES Councilor Hamel YES Councilor Felch YES; the motion passed with all in favor. Councilor Haynes moved to approve Resolution 2020-12, a resolution authorizing application for a two-million-dollar loan from the New Hampshire Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund for the Elm Street Sewer Project and appropriating funds for the same, seconded by Councilor Cheney; City Clerk Hebert took a roll call vote Councilor Cheney YES Councilor Lipman YES Councilor Haynes YES  Councilor Cheney YES Councilor Lipman YES Councilor Haynes YES Councilor Hamel YES Councilor Felch YES; the motion passed with all in favor. 21.B. A proposed application on the proposed project - Laconia Housing Authority improvements to Sunrise Towers and wall renovations between Sunrise Towers and Sunrise House Councilor Cheney moved to approve the submittal of the Laconia Housing Authority application and to authorize the City Manager to sign and submit the CDBG application, and upon approval of the CDBG application, authorize the City Manager to execute any documents which may be necessary to effectuate the CDBG contract, and any amendments thereto, seconded by Councilor Haynes; City Clerk Hebert took a roll call vote: Councilor Cheney YES Councilor Lipman YES Councilor Haynes YES Councilor Hamel YES Councilor Felch YES; the motion passed with all in favor. 21.C. The Residential Anti-displacement and Relocation Assistant Plan Councilor Haynes moved to approve the Residential Anti-displacement and Relocation Assistance Plan for the proposed Laconia Housing Authority Project, seconded by Councilor Cheney; City Clerk Hebert took a roll call vote: Councilor Cheney YES Councilor Lipman YES Councilor Haynes YES Councilor Hamel YES Councilor Felch YES; the motion passed with all in favor. Mayor Hosmer requested a five-minute recess at 8:47 pm. The meeting resumed at 8:50 pm. 21.D. Continued discussion on the Laconia Motorcycle Week Event Mayor Hosmer would like to make it clear that it has been intent of the Council and the City to work  The meeting resumed at 8:50 pm. 21.D. Continued discussion on the Laconia Motorcycle Week Event Mayor Hosmer would like to make it clear that it has been intent of the Council and the City to work with the Laconia Motorcycle Week Association in trying to balance the public health concerns with the economic concerns. Mayor Hosmer read a prepared document into the record titled 2020 Laconia Motorcycle Week August 22-30. This document is a first draft. "The City of Laconia, as host of the 97th Annual Laconia Motorcycle Week, has deliberately and with the input of concerned citizens, as well as, public safety officials, including Laconia Fire and Police Departments, medical professionals, local and statewide public health officials, attempted to properly balance the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the potential economic impact of canceling Laconia Motorcycle Week 2020. It's clear that many small and locally owned businesses depend on the revenue generated by Laconia Motorcycle Week and these local businesses are struggling to remain viable in light of the economic downturn resulting from COVID-19. As our City of Laconia is a tourist destination particularly in the summer, visitors pose a risk of bringing COVID-19 to the city. Because of this we have taken steps to limit the number of visitors to our beaches and have encouraged all residents and visitors to abide by CDC guidelines and Governor Sununu's Executive Orders. It's evident that, regardless of whether LMW takes place or not, Laconia will host vacationers and daily visitors to the city and its beaches, parks, restaurants and entertainment venues. As we witnessed during the traditional dates for LMW and the July 4th weekend, Laconia hosted an influx of visitors regardless of public health advisories to the contrary. Local and statewide public health experts have recommended Laconia Motorcycle Week at least be significantly curtailed in light of the possibility of COVID-19 positive persons visiting Laconia and the difficulty in establishing and enforcing social distancing and quarantine protocols consistent with CDC guidelines and Governor Sununu's Emergency Orders. As traditional host of Laconia Motorcycle Week, the city licenses vendors and establishes and maintains public safety and public works guidelines. The City of Laconia does not own the rights to Laconia Motorcycle Week. Laconia MW is owned and operated by the non-profit Laconia Motorcycle Week Association (LMWA). The City of Laconia works collaboratively with LMW Association in hosting the annual event. LMWA and the City work together to determine when the event takes place and where vendors will be allowed to set-up for business. The City does not have the sole discretion to determine if LMW occurs. After extensive discussions with LMWA Executive Director, Charlie St. Clair, the city has determined the LMWA may declare August 22-30 the 97th Annual LMW. In so doing, the LMW Association will be allowed to set-up a tent on the public boardwalk along Lakeside Avenue for those dates. It shall be the only tent on public property abutting Lakeside Avenue. In light of the City's concerns about welcoming potentially thousands of guests to LMW and our concern for public health, the City will not license any vendors (either merchandise, food, beverage, alcohol or entertainment) and we discourage private property owners from hosting campsites and campers - particularly those that are unable or unwilling to abide by NH's quarantine protocols, i.e. 14 day quarantine if traveling from outside New England states. There will be no city hosted or sponsored events during LMW 2020 including the Lakeside Avenue photo tower. Parking regulations on Lakeside Avenue during the week of August 22-30th will be determined at a later date. The city will seek input from LMWA, public safety and other interested parties. Any requests for charity rides during the period of August 22-30th must be approved by the Laconia City Council and the Chief of Police or his designee. We affirmatively state, for the sake of public safety, all visitors and businesses must strictly adhere to CDC guidelines. The City of Laconia and LMWA will constantly evaluate data provided by New Hampshire Department of Public Health leading up to August 22nd. If this data indicates an increased risk to citizens of Laconia, its public employees or residents of the State in general, we reserve the right to modify our position." Mayor Hosmer explained this is the City's attempt to protect the public's health and economic health. Councilor Felch agrees with part of this but is having a hard time not issuing the vendor licenses. Councilor Felch thinks this will put a hardship on the local businesses to keep up with the CDC guidelines and the influx of customers. Councilor Felch also expressed that Meredith will be having vendors and the Loudon Race Track will still be having races as well as vendors. Councilor Felch would like to see limiting vendors or at the least allow for the local non-profit vendors.  Councilor Felch agrees with part of this but is having a hard time not issuing the vendor licenses. Councilor Felch thinks this will put a hardship on the local businesses to keep up with the CDC guidelines and the influx of customers. Councilor Felch also expressed that Meredith will be having vendors and the Loudon Race Track will still be having races as well as vendors. Councilor Felch would like to see limiting vendors or at the least allow for the local non-profit vendors. Mayor Hosmer thanked Councilor Felch for his concerns and understands there is really no simple answer. The distinct advantage the race track has is the size of their venue to better serve social distancing. The City needs to be cautious of large groups congregating. Councilor Felch stated there still will be a lot of people here no matter what the City does. Councilor Haynes thinks this document sets a good balance and is fine with the document. Councilor Haynes thinks the City needs to look at what is happening in other states. City Manager Myers said that if there is consensus with this document by the Council then the City needs to communicate with Laconia Motorcycle Week Association as well as the State Tourism Bureau as to get the word out. The intent of this document is to limit it to our existing infrastructure and not bring in outside parties. Councilor Haynes moved to support the document as presented and direct the City Manager to coordinate with Laconia Motorcycle Week Association and State officials in regards to messaging, seconded by Councilor Cheney; Councilor Felch would like to amend the motion to allow for non-profit vendors to be able to receive vendor licenses. City Manager Myers believes they are the Kiwanis and Rotary. City Manager Myers stated the amendment should read: Laconia specific non-profit Kiwanis and Rotary and if there was one other, then we could potentially look to accommodate them if they were interested. Councilor Felch agrees with the wording of the amendment. Councilor Haynes and Councilor Cheney approve of the friendly amendment. Mayor Hosmer called the question as amended. City Clerk Hebert took a roll call vote; Councilor Cheney YES Councilor Lipman YES Councilor Haynes YES Councilor Hamel YES Councilor Felch YES; the motion passed with all in favor. 21.E. General budget discussion City Manager Myers explained that when the presentations wrapped up on June 29, 2020, it was requested to have a general budget discussion prior to adoption on July 27, 2020. City Manager Myers reviewed a document titled FY 20 Fund Summary & FY 21 Proposed Budget Amendments. The document is part of the official record. The first page of the document gives a breakdown of the different fund balances. The second page breaks down all of the Fiscal Year 2020 Carry Forwards to Fiscal Year 2021. The third page represents the staff recommendations for amending the Fiscal Year 2021 proposed budget. These recommendations to increase or decrease specific revenue and to increase or decrease specific expenditure line items ends up having a neutral impact to the overall budget. There is no increase/decrease in the amount to be raised by taxes and this remains a Tax  requested to have a general budget discussion prior to adoption on July 27, 2020. City Manager Myers reviewed a document titled FY 20 Fund Summary & FY 21 Proposed Budget Amendments. The document is part of the official record. The first page of the document gives a breakdown of the different fund balances. The second page breaks down all of the Fiscal Year 2020 Carry Forwards to Fiscal Year 2021. The third page represents the staff recommendations for amending the Fiscal Year 2021 proposed budget. These recommendations to increase or decrease specific revenue and to increase or decrease specific expenditure line items ends up having a neutral impact to the overall budget. There is no increase/decrease in the amount to be raised by taxes and this remains a Tax Cap compliant budget. If there is consensus to accept these proposed changes, they would be blended into one resolution and presented at the next meeting. If there is consensus on any other items tonight, those could be added as well. Councilor Lipman appreciates the proposed document and is in support of it. Councilor Lipman questioned if the School has any adjustments. City Manager Myers will have Finance Director Glenn Smith provide guidance on any adjustments that the school may have. The Superintendent stated that the revenues that were previously presented are on point. Councilor Hamel had a conversation with Fire Chief Beattie previously regarding the upgrades that needed to be done to the Weirs Fire Station living quarters in an amount of $57,000. In the past month the bids came in and they are higher than the Council previously approved. The totals came in at $76,319 to do the upgrades. Councilor Hamel knows the Council approved $57,000 from the non- capital reserve account for this. City Manager Myers stated that collectively about $390,000 was moved for a list of items with monies being set aside for the Transfer Station Scale and the Sewer project with the remainder of that account totalling $475,487.03. Therefore, the request for the Weirs Fire Station upgrades could be placed on the next agenda and it would be a seperate budget vote because it's not included in the budget but the money is available. Councilor Hamel moved to set aside $80,000 for the remodel of the Weirs Fire Station living area and add that to the next agenda, seconded by Councilor Felch; City Clerk took a roll call vote; Councilor Cheney YES Councilor Lipman YES Councilor Haynes YES Councilor Hamel YES Councilor Felch YES; the motion passed with all in favor. Mayor Hosmer stated there is consensus of the Council to put the presented document into a Resolution. 22. COUNCIL COMMENTS Councilor Cheney would like to say that he is very proud of the men and women of the Laconia Police Department and they do a very good job serving the residents of Laconia. Councilor Cheney thinks Laconia is very lucky to have the Police and Fire Departments that we have. Mayor Hosmer seconds Councilor Cheney's sentiments. 23. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 23.A. Master Plan  Mayor Hosmer seconds Councilor Cheney's sentiments. 23. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 23.A. Master Plan 23.B. Milfoil Treatment funding requests 23.C. Sewer & Water Master Plan 23.D. Single Stream Recycling/Concord Co-op/Solid Waste disposal cost reductions 23.E. Strategic Planning/Goal Setting 23.F. WOW Trail 23.G. Weirs Beach Restoration Project 23.H. Fair St/Court St traffic problems and accidents 24. Any other business that may come before the Council 25. NON-PUBLIC SESSION (According to RSA 91-A:3, II) 26. ADJOURNMENT With no further business to come before the Council and hearing no objection, Mayor Hosmer adjourned the meeting at 9:25 pm. Respectfully submitted Cheryl Hebert, City Clerk MINUTES OF THIS MEETING WERE APPROVED BY COUNCIL ON JULY 27, 2020