Board of Aldermen

MINUTES OF THE PUBLIC HEARING OF MONDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2024 SITE PLAN FOR 14577 MANCHESTER ROAD CALL TO ORDER Mayor Mike Clement called the Public Hearing of the Board of Aldermen to order at 7:00 p.m. ROLL CALL AND STATEMENT OF QUORUM Roll call showed those present were Alderman Nolte, Alderman Dodge, Alderman Ottenad, Alderman Huether, Alderman Toben, Alderman Baumann, and Mayor Clement. A quorum was present. PUBLIC HEARING The following notice of the public hearing was then read: “The City of Manchester Board of Aldermen shall hold a livestreamed public hearing on Monday, February 5, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. at the Manchester Justice Center, 200 Highlands Boulevard Dr, to consider the following: CASE #23-SP-003 – Mike Elton, Vance Engineering on behalf of Delphi Ltd, owner, is seeking approval of a Site Plan to construct a 4,515 square foot single story building to be located at 14577 Manchester Road, zoned C-1 Commercial Zoning District.” Speaking as a proponent, Mike Elton, owner of 1228 Wissmann Drive, representative of Vance Engineering Company, presented the proposed site plan at 14577 Manchester Road. He explained the site was currently vacant and accessible through two entrances. The proposed structure would be a 4,515 square foot commercial office and retail building. He answered the Commission’s question explaining there are no tenants for the building yet. COMMENTS FROM OPPONENTS, QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC There were no opponents. Alderman Nolte reported that the Planning and Zoning Commission gave a positive recommendation for approval of the site plan. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Clement closed the public hearing at 7:03 p.m. Public Hearing 02/05/24 Site Plan 14577 Manchester Road Page 1  MINUTES OF THE PUBLIC HEARING OF MONDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2024 SPECIAL USE PERMIT FOR 647 BIG BEND ROAD CALL TO ORDER Mayor Mike Clement called the Public Hearing of the Board of Aldermen to order at 7:03 p.m. ROLL CALL AND STATEMENT OF QUORUM Roll call showed those present were Alderman Nolte, Alderman Dodge, Alderman Ottenad, Alderman Huether, Alderman Toben, Alderman Baumann, and Mayor Clement. A quorum was present. PUBLIC HEARING The following notice of the public hearing was then read: “The City of Manchester Board of Aldermen shall hold a livestreamed public hearing on Monday, February 5, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. at the Manchester Justice Center, 200 Highlands Boulevard Dr, to consider the following: CASE NUMBER - PC-24-SUP-001, a Special Use Permit (SUP) to allow 647 Big Bend Road located in the C-2 Commercial Zoning District to be used for a restaurant.” There were no proponents. COMMENTS FROM OPPONENTS, QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC There were no opponents. Mayor Clement advised Director Riganti to reach out the applicant to present at the next regular Board of Aldermen meeting. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Clement closed the public hearing at 7:04 p.m. Public Hearing 2/5/24 Special Use Permit for 647 Big Bend Rd for a Restaurant Page 1  MINUTES OF THE REGULAR BOARD OF ALDERMEN MEETING OF MONDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2024 AT 200 HIGHLANDS BOULEVARD DRIVE CALL TO ORDER Mayor Clement called the Regular Board of Aldermen Meeting to order at 7:04 p.m. ROLL CALL AND STATEMENT OF QUORUM Roll call showed those present were Alderman Nolte, Alderman Dodge, Alderman Ottenad, Alderman Huether, Alderman Toben, Alderman Baumann, and Mayor Clement. A quorum was present. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES January 16, 2024 Regular Board of Aldermen Meeting Alderman Ottenad made the motion to approve the minutes of the Tuesday, January 16, 2024, Regular Board of Aldermen Meeting. The motion was seconded by Alderman Baumann and carried unanimously, with no objections from any members of the Board of Aldermen. ESTABLISHMENT OF ORDER OF ITEMS ON THE AGENDA Mayor Clement requested the postponement of the swearing in of Adam Streeter explaining that he was still waiting on his employer’s approval of serving as Alderman. Mayor Clement requested that the appointment still be reviewed by the Board of Aldermen but voted with the contingency of Mr. Streeter’s employer’s approval. Mayor Clement also requested the addition of appointment of Alderman Baumann to the Planning & Zoning Commission. Alderman Ottenad made the motion to approve the Order of Items on the Agenda, as amended. The motion was seconded by Alderman Baumann and carried unanimously, with no objections from any members of the Board of Aldermen. CONSIDERATION OF PETITIONS Swearing in for Prosecuting Attorney Keith Cheung Judge Billings gave the Oath of Office to Prosecuting Attorney Keith Cheung. Comments from the Public Melissa Jones Copeland, owner of 610 Wren Ave, distributed maps to the Board of Aldermen showing the aerial of Southwest Middle School, noting the greenspace of the property and the proposed new building that was presented to Canary Estates residents. She continued that additional images showed the parking lot on the property and expressed concern about the elimination of greenspace for the parking lot. Ms. Copeland furthered that this reduction in greenspace would be inconsistent with the other Parkway middle schools and their amenities that are provided via access to greenspace. She continued that it would take the middle school students seven minutes to access the nearby greenspace amenities of South Senior High Regular Board of Aldermen Meeting 02/05/2024 Page 1 School. Mayor Clement assured Ms. Copeland that the Board and City Staff would continue to spend time addressing her issues and advised that she could finish her presentation at the next meeting. Diane Lineback Bryson, resident of 532 Audubon Place Ct, expressed concern on adding another school to an already very full school system with ongoing traffic issues. She continued that when Parkway cut the bus system it created traffic problems along her street. While the students on her street are walkers, people from other areas tend to park on her street to the point where they cannot get in or out of their homes and sometimes causing trash delays. She explained that she had expressed this concern to Parkway several times and can’t imagine the extra traffic another school would generate on her street. Ms. Bryson also expressed concern about the extended construction on the property as Wren Hollow Elementary School is slated for a new playground. She worried that the continual construction until sometime in 2027 would also affect the ability of students to walk to school. Mayor Clement assured Ms. Bryson that City departments are aware of her concerns and are doing what they can to ensure they are addressed. Alderman Baumann asked if Ms. Bryson shared any concerns about the greenspace brought up in other public comments. Ms. Bryson said that she had not thought about greenspace much but does see a concern with taking away the ability to utilize the space for the middle schoolers. Cindy Welker, owner of 507 Audubon Place Ct, explained she also had concern about the addition of a new school going in the proposed location. She continued that the intersection of Wren and Canary had always been an issue and had gotten worse in recent years. She continued that many crossing guards had quit because of it and the most recent guard had a couple of incidents where he was almost hit. She reported that recently a student’s bike was hit at that intersection. She continued that it was dangerous for walkers because cars sped past and that some buses ran red lights on the street. Ms. Welker added that she had concerns about the elimination of the greenspace and noted that current students utilize it often. Mayor Clement let Ms. Welker know that the Chief was hearing the comments and taking notes to address the traffic concerns. Randy Welker, resident of 507 Audubon Place Ct, stated that her concerns as a student were for the walkers’ safety. She explained that she was a walker when she attended both schools and that the speed at which people traveled was always a concern. She also noted that sections of the street did not have sidewalks. Ms. Welker expressed additional concern for the students mental health, explaining that one of her favorite parts of attending Southwest Middle School was having gym class outside. She explained that she had done her teaching practicum at the school as well, and that teachers sometimes use the outdoor space for classroom learning. Jeanne Fischer, owner of 604 Audubon Place Ct, stated she had lived at her residence for 32 years and was there when the middle school was put in. She continued, expressing concern about the effect the elimination of the greenspace would have on both the students and the community. She reiterated her neighbors’ concerns on the lack of stopping at the four way Regular Board of Aldermen Meeting 02/05/2024 Page 2 stop. She expressed the need to keep the community safe and keep the greenspace. Tom Welker, owner of 507 Audubon Place Ct, said he shared the concern of his neighbors. He wanted to add that the biggest challenge was the encroachment that cars put on the subdivision. He continued that people parked on both sides of the street and there was little to no room for first responders in cases of emergency. He continued that the increased traffic would only make this worse and added traffic was not conducive for the residential area. Mr. Welker added that a traffic study had been conducted on Wren, but it was only for a limited few day window. Mayor Clement spoke to Director Riganti, Director Tate, and Chief Will, stating they would need to have a discussion regarding the concerns that were raised. REPORTS FROM THE MAYOR Alderman Nolte’s Resignation and Proclamation Mayor Clement read a proclamation recognizing Alderman Nelson Nolte, noting, and thanking him for his years of service with the City of Manchester. Appointment of Adam Streeter to the Board of Aldermen, Ward One Mayor Clement explained his appointment selection of Adam Streeter reporting his service to the City’s Planning & Zoning Commission, serving as a subdivision trustee, and his commitment to the philanthropic drives the City hosts. Alderman Dodge made the motion to appoint Ward 1 resident Adam Streeter to fill the vacant Ward 1 Alderman’s position until the next regular municipal election provided that Adam takes the Oath of Office after receiving his approval from Anheuser-Busch’s compliance department. The motion was seconded by Alderman Baumann and carried unanimously, with no objections from any members of the Board of Aldermen. Appointment for Alderman Baumann as the Planning & Zoning Ex-Officio Liaison Alderman Ottenad made the motion to appoint Alderman Baumann as the Ex-Officio liaison to the Planning & Zoning Commission. The motion was seconded by Alderman Dodge and carried unanimously, with no objections from any members of the Board of Aldermen. Parkway Day of Service Donation Mayor Clement explained that some City Staff had been working with Parkway South High School on their planning of a community day of service for their students. He continued that the goal was to have all students participate and help with various needs in the community and that around 400 students would be volunteering in Manchester parks. The school’s planning committee had been working on getting funds for participants to each have a t-shirt for the day of service. Mayor Clement explained he had discussed the City of Manchester donating funds to this effort as the City both supports the value of community service and would benefit from the volunteers’ help. Mayor Clement asked the Board to consider a $5,000.00 donation to the event. Alderman Ottenad stated that she saw importance in supporting the local high school as well as the students doing the service in the community. Alderman Huether stated she was impressed with the commitment from the local large box stores and locally owned stores to Regular Board of Aldermen Meeting 02/05/2024 Page 3 the Parkway event. She continued that the partnership with Parkway for this event reflects values that the Manchester Board try to live out and it is a great opportunity to show support. Alderman Dodge questioned the need for a single day t-shirt to be purchased and brought forth concern of what other entities may request donations if the City donates these funds. Alderman Dodge stated he opposed the donation. Mayor Clement read a letter from Parks Maintenance Superintendent, Brian Elliot, to the Parkway event planning members expressing the excitement of this event and determining and the growth opportunity of making it a yearly event. Alderman Ottenad made the motion to approve a $5,000.00 donation to Parkway South High School for their South High Day of Service. The motion was seconded by Alderman Huether. The motion passed by a 4-1 voice vote, with Alderman Dodge voting nay. Mayoral Reports Mayor Clement acknowledged the Feathers, Fur, Scales and Tails art exhibit that was currently hanging in the Justice Center. He recommended that everyone take a look at the exhibit and emphasized the City’s support for the arts. Mayor Clement reminded the Board that the Polar Plunge was coming up on February 24th and that four officers and some of their daughters would be participating. He explained that the Polar Plunge supports the Special Olympics. Mayor Clement also reported that the Parks maintenance staff attended the 2023-2024 Maintenance Rodeo which is a competition that emphasized the importance of the work they do in the community. Mayor Clement notified the Board that on February 8th the City would host the Community Engagement Team from the annexation efforts for a dinner to say thank you for their hard work. He continued that the Scottish Games would be coming back May 11th this year. REPORTS FROM THE CITY ADMINISTRATOR 12-Month Financial Report Director Sieve reported on the 12-month unaudited financial statement for 2023. He detailed each fund and summarized the City’s budgetary position on a cash-basis for the year end December 31, 2023. Mayor Clement commended Director Sieve on his work and summarized that the City’s end of year financials were strong and that revenues had exceeded what was budgeted and expenses were less than what was budgeted. Alderman Dodge Presentation of Budget Alderman Dodge presented comments on the City’s 2023 financial health. He explained some of the long-term debt and gave his perspective on how the City is financially stable. Introduction of Human Resource Manager Lita Murray City Administrator Klocke introduced Lita Murray as the new Human Resource Manager for the City. Lita joined the City from the City of Ferguson where she had recruited key executive level positions throughout their city. He expressed how excited the City was to have Lita join the team and bring her wealth of knowledge in human resources. Regular Board of Aldermen Meeting 02/05/2024 Page 4 City Hall Update City Administrator Klocke gave an update on the lower level of the new city hall. He reported that the work on this project could be done in house and the cost was between $15,000 and $20,000. He reported that the remainder of the renovation project loan would cover these costs. He continued that staff had begun the project and completion was estimated in one to two months. Start Time Board of Aldermen Meetings City Administrator Klocke stated that in December they had discussed changing the start time of the Board of Aldermen meetings. He explained that the Planning & Zoning Commission changed their start time to 6:30pm and the change was met with enthusiasm from the commissioners and staff. He stated that it was not unprecedented to have an earlier start time for the Board of Aldermen, as many cities have a 6:30pm start time. City Administrator Klocke stated that he had not received any negative feedback for presenting this change and was seeking general consensus of the Board’s opinion on the matter. There was no opposition. Love Local Highlight – Two Pink Elephants City Administrator Klocke presented a Love Local video highlighting the local business Two Pink Elephants. He explained that the goal is for businesses to reach out to the City to create a similar spotlight and to share any promotions or information they have for the Love Local campaign. List of Paid Bills (Warrant dates of 01-15-2024 to 02-04-2024) There were no questions. Reports from the Committees Planning and Zoning Commission Mayor Clement reported that the Planning and Zoning Commission approved a site plan for 709 Joyce Ann Drive and gave a positive recommendation for a Special Use Permit for 14248A Manchester Road for a restaurant and for 901 Howard George Dr to allow outdoor storage. Veterans Commission Alderman Huether reported that the next Veterans Commission would be February 22nd at 5:00pm via Zoom. Audit and Finance Committee Alderman Toben stated that the next Audit and Finance Committee meeting would be February 20th. Tree Advisory Board Alderman Dodge stated there was no Tree Advisory Board report. OLD LEGISLATION None NEW LEGISLATION Resolution No. 24-0957 Regular Board of Aldermen Meeting 02/05/2024 Page 5 2024 Concrete Sidewalk Slab Elevation Alderman Ottenad read Proposed Resolution No. 24-0957, entitled: “A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY ADMINISTRATOR OF THE CITY OF MANCHESTER TO EXPEND THE SUM OF TWO HUNDRED TWENTY-EIGHT THOUSAND SIX HUNDRED THIRTY-SIX DOLLARS AND ZERO CENTS ($228,636.00) AND TO EXERCISE THE CITY’S OPTION TO RENEW THE CONTRACT WITH LIFT RITE, INC. FOR CONSTRUCTION OF IMPROVEMENTS KNOWN AND REFERRED TO AS THE 2024 SIDEWALK SLAB ELEVATION CORRECTION PROJECT WITH THE CITY OPTION FOR ONE ADDITIONAL YEAR,” by title only. Alderman Ottenad made the motion for approval of Resolution No. 24-0957. The motion was seconded by Alderman Baumann and carried unanimously, with no objections from any members of the Board of Aldermen. Bill No. 24-2524 Site Plan Approval for 14577 Manchester Road Alderman Baumann read Proposed Bill No. 24-2524 entitled: “AN ORDINANCE APPROVING A SITE PLAN FOR 14577 MANCHESTER ROAD IN THE C-1 COMMERCIAL ZONING DISTRICT TO ALLOW THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW BUILDING AS PROVIDED FOR IN SECTION 405.820(C) OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY OF MANCHESTER,” by title only. No further action at this time. Bill No. 24-2525 Special Use Permit for 647 Big Bend Rd Alderman Toben read Proposed Bill No. 24-2525 entitled: “AN ORDINANCE GRANTING A SPECIAL USE PERMIT TO BRUCE JI AND BEYOND WOK EXPRESS LLC TO OPERATE A RESTAURANT AT 647 BIG BEND ROAD IN THE C-2 COMMERCIAL ZONING DISTRICT AS PROVIDED FOR IN SECTION 405.250(C)(5)(f) OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY OF MANCHESTER,” by title only. No further action at this time. MISCELLANEOUS Comments from the Public Robert Lopez, owner of 1302 Mautenne Dr, inquired about the City picking up the resident’s portion of the trash service fee since the City is doing well financially. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, Alderman Ottenad made the motion to adjourn. The motion was seconded by Alderman Toben and carried unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 8:17 p.m. Regular Board of Aldermen Meeting 02/05/2024 Page 6 Regular Board of Aldermen Meeting 02/05/2024 Page 7