City Council

CITY OF POCATELLO, IDAHO CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION JULY 13, 2017 AGENDA ITEM NO. 1: Mayor Brian Blad called the City Council Study Session to order ROLL CALL at 9:03 a.m. Council members present were Heidi Adamson, Steve Brown, Jim Johnston, Gary Moore and Michael L. Orr. Council member Roger Bray was excused. AGENDA ITEM NO. 2: Nick Nielson, Chair Person; and Terri Neu, Staff Liaison; from HISTORIC PRESERVATION the Historic Preservation Committee (HPC) were present to COMMISSION UPDATE discuss the Commission’s goals and projects, as well as Council’s policies and expectations. Mr. Nielson reviewed the activities for 2016/2017 and explained the Commission has completed several projects. He noted the Commission is working with Old Town Pocatello, Inc. to enhance the Historic District. Mr. Nielson reviewed Brady Chapel projects and events the Commission has held at/near the chapel. An open house at the Chapel is planned in October and Veterans’ Day. Other events planned by the Commission were also shared. In response to questions from Council, Ms. Neu does not feel the Commission is doing anything that might be considered a retardant of development in Old Town Pocatello. However, HPC is committed to keeping the historic district intact. Mr. Neu feels that history gives people a sense of place and belonging. The Commission strives to maintain the historic presence of Pocatello’s downtown area and she does not feel their efforts are detrimental to the area. Mr. Nielson added that the downtown area is vibrant and growing while still maintaining the historical integrity. The Commission encourages good solid businesses to occupy the historic district. In response to questions from Council, Ms. Neu explained the question - ‘What can be done as a City to help revitalize Old Town Pocatello?’ - has been asked by individuals for many years. She noted that Stephanie Palagi, Old Town Pocatello, Inc., Executive Director; is very good at what she does to encourage property owners to care for their buildings. However, staff is very open to any suggestions Council might have to improve the area. More general discussion about historic areas in other cities followed. Mr. Nielson feels when businesses stay within the historic guidelines, the area is more presentable. In closing, Mr. Nielson asked the Council to support the Commission to keep the guidelines that are currently in place. AGENDA ITEM NO. 3: Jamar Brown, Chair Person; Virgie Arambarri, member; and HUMAN RELATIONS Nichole Harms, Staff Liaison; from the Human Relations ADVISORY COMMITTEE Advisory Committee were present to discuss the Committee’s UPDATE goals and projects, as well as Council’s policies and expectations. Ms. Brown reviewed the mission of the Human Relations Advisory Committee. She gave an overview of the Civil Human Rights award given annually by the Committee. The life of Dr. Walsh, an advocate for many individuals and Judge Rick Carnaroli were reviewed in detail. Ms. Brown expressed the Committee’s appreciation for the human rights endeavors of Dr. Walsh and Mr. Carnaroli. CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION 2 JULY 13, 2017 Ms. Arambarri gave an overview of concerns some individuals have expressed with the recognition of Columbus Day as a holiday. Celebrating “Indigenous Day” in Pocatello was suggested and the Committee asked that the Council consider giving a formal acknowledgement of the day in Pocatello. In response to questions from Council, Ms. Brown reported an individual has approached her personally to report inappropriate human rights activity within the City and there are also other issues happening in the surrounding community. Ms. Harms explained the Committee mainly deals with reports about a negative occurrence that has happened in Pocatello. When a report is received, the Committee begins the process to work through the issues. It was noted that the Committee is working with Pocatello Police staff to deal with issues that come up. The goals and challenges of the Committee and their passion for change in the community were shared. AGENDA ITEM NO. 4: Nathan Millward (mailing address: P.O. Box 546, Pocatello, ID POCATELLO CENTRAL 83204) representing the Pocatello Central Labor Council gave a LABOR COUNCIL WORKERS presentation regarding a proposed Workers Memorial MEMORIAL MONUMENT Monument to be located in a City Park. PROPOSAL Mr. Millward reviewed the Labor Council’s request to create a Workers Memorial/Monument for the City of Pocatello. He explained they are asking for an area to develop the memorial to recognize workers in the past, present and future of the community. April 28 of each year is set aside to recognize workers that have lost their lives on the job and the City of Pocatello has acknowledged this in the past. Mr. Millward described the location he has discussed with John Banks, Parks and Recreation Director. The suggested location for the monument is on South 4th Avenue near Avenue to the Chiefs road. Mr. Millward explained the proposed monument will display two plaques noting the City of Pocatello’s dedication and Labor Council’s dedication. In response to questions from Council, Mr. Millward stated funds have been raised for the monument and he explained that pavers will be sold to continue the project. AGENDA ITEM NO. 5: Logan McDougall, Chair Person; Kasi Beorchia and Arlo Luke, POCATELLO FLAG members; representing the Flag Design Ad-Hoc Committee DESIGN COMMITTEE presented the Committee’s recommendation for a new flag for UPDATE Pocatello. Mr. McDougall gave an overview of the history leading up to the creation of a new flag for the City. He noted that the issue regarding the City’s flag began in late 2015/early 2016. A committee was formed to redesign a flag and they developed a campaign to receive ideas for a new flag. Five basic principles of flag design were used to choose the final six flags for consideration by the Committee. The basic principles are: 1) Flags should be simple; 2) Flags should have meaningful symbolism; 3) Flags should use only 2 to 3 basic colors; 4) Flag should NOT have lettering or seals; and 5) Flags should be distinctive or be related. Comments on the flag chosen by the Committee were shared. Residents that responded said: a) Communicates the best of Pocatello; b) Truly symbolizes what Pocatello means and encompasses; CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION 3 JULY 13, 2017 and c) Representative of Pocatello; a rising star in the mountains. This flag is inspirational and is something of which I can be proud. From outside the community: a) If I was visiting and saw this flag in a gift shop, I would stop and think about buying it; b) Very distinctive, bold, tells a story in one glance; and c) Friendly and welcoming, while being quite official. It was mentioned that the Committee is asking the Council to consider adopting the flag design. If Council adopts the design, it will be documented by resolution. Once a new flag is adopted, the Committee will begin reaching out to the community to educate them on the flag’s symbolism. In response to questions from Council, Mr. Luke agrees there is a difference of opinion in the community regarding the flag design. Each citizen has their own likes and dislikes. However, the Flag Vexillological Society has rated this choice as a great flag in combination of community support. It was mentioned that most flags will not be accepted by 50% of the community members. Mr. Luke feels the proposed flag incorporates the meaning of the community well. Mr. McDougall mentioned the feedback received regarding the flag design was comparable to the River Visioning campaign. Ms. Beorchia explained a new flag was a community lead vision and the people on the Committee volunteered many hours to identify a flag that would represent Pocatello well. She feels this flag will continue to represent the City for generations to come. Mr. McDougall shared plans to promote the flag design on mugs, t-shirts, etc. The Committee would like to let people in the city embrace it and make it their own. Council was supportive of the City flag design as proposed. Mayor Blad called a recess at 10:29 a.m. Mayor Blad reconvened the meeting at 10:45 a.m. AGENDA ITEM NO. 6: Arlyn Rasmussen, Sanitation Superintendent, gave an update on PARTNERS IN PRIDE proposed service level changes to the City’s Partners in Pride PROGRAM UPDATE Program. Mr. Rasmussen gave a brief overview of the Program. The Sanitation Department coordinates and manages the Partners in Pride Program which allows residential customers the free use of a 3-yard container or a 17-yard roll-off box to remove unwanted items or work on other projects which may require greater than usual trash service. This free service is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Containers may be reserved for a 48-hour period or over a weekend. It was noted that the program was established in 1985 and was increased in 1995. There has been no increase in service since that date. Total costs for the program were reviewed. The following enhancement options for the program were presented. Increase the number of free services (double the amount of containers) - It was suggested that the service be increased during the peak season “April thru November” using increased seasonal labor, possibly (1 staff member) if the program is doubled. Increased tonnage fees would be approximately $9,500.00. (without Bannock County waiving weight fees). Estimated costs to double the current Partners in Pride Program would be $28,500.00 per year. CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION 4 JULY 13, 2017 Doubling the number of containers would increase availability and shorten wait times. It was suggested special containers be available through Partner in Pride for Code Enforcement use only (not for abatement). A Police Department Supervisor would need to approve use of the special container. Steve Heib, Code Enforcement Officer, explained the availability of a free dumpster for property owners that cannot afford one will help them come into compliance. He feels it will be a good incentive for property owners that have been cited to clear the property quickly. In response to questions from Council, Mr. Rasmussen clarified that a nominal fee to use the dumpsters may not discourage people from clearing property. Identifying a responsible party to pay for dumpster use for a neighborhood cleanup events in addition to scheduling/availability dates, will continue to be an issue. Mr. Moore feels because the dumpster is free, it is great incentive for people to clean up properties in the neighborhood. He suggested the Sanitation Department offer a generic door hanger that a person can use to advertise in the neighborhood when a free dumpster will be available for clean-up efforts. In response to questions from Council, Mr. Rasmussen noted that Valley Pride already uses the Partners in Pride program and is on the schedule regularly. Staff will continue to work with them to schedule boxes. Council supported the proposal of adding dumpster/roll-off boxes to the Program as funds and staffing allows. AGENDA ITEM NO. 7: Hannah Sanger, Science and Environment Division Manager; PORTNEUF RIVER Jeff Mansfield, Public Works Director; John Banks, Parks and VISIONING UPDATE Recreation Director; and Melanie Gygli, Planning and Development Services Director; gave an update on the Portneuf River Visioning project, including an update on Army Corps of Engineers processes and regulations – and an opportunity to further develop the River Visioning project this fall in partnership with Utah State University’s landscape architecture program. Ms. Sanger explained the following topics will be discussed: Update Council on action taken since December 2016 Propose funding a partnership with Utah State University’s Landscape Architecture program as the first part of creating an implementation plan Update the Council on Army Corps regulations and possibilities for revising the 6,000 cfs and vegetation management criteria Review Council Guidance from December 2016 City lead the implementation effort – start by 1) creating an Implementation Plan, 2) creating an Ad-hoc advisory committee; 3) allocating staff resources for project management; and 4) obtain Army Corps of Engineers guidance on revising the 6,000 cfs and vegetation management requirements. CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION 5 JULY 13, 2017 Centennial/Rainey Park -Valley Pride has stepped up to be the lead non-profit on fundraising and ultimately partnering with the City to implement first major project at the park. Canoe Trail – City partnering with Idaho Department of Environmental Quality and Simplot to remove debris jams. Stream Restoration – City partnering with US Fish and Wildlife Service to restore a section of degraded stream bank at Sacajawea Park. Tributary Streams – a) watershed fence – City partnering with Portneuf Soil and Water Conservation District and US Forest Service and many local volunteers to protect the headwaters of Mink Creek and Gibson Jack, the source of our drinking water; Gibson Jack – culvert enlarged at mouth of Gibson Jack to improve fish passage for native cutthroat trout 2016; installation of beaver dam analogs 2017. Utah State University Partnership Budget - $21,000.00 (funding available in Fund 17); Timeframe – completion in December 2017, with possible extension into spring 2018 to consider the economic impact of select projects; Examples – similar efforts conducted in the last 2 years in the Boise Bench area and South Salt Lake; who – Landscape Architecture Urban Planning students directed by 2 faculty members. Key Deliverables – guidance on key planning and design opportunities that are critical to planning implementation of the Portneuf River Vision; and additional concept drawings (e.g. Centennial/Rainey Park). Ms. Sanger mentioned she will come back to Council in August with a contract for Utah State University students. Army Corps Vegetation management – other western communities are lobbying hard to modify the vegetation management criteria for levies to reduce the biological risk of the levees; In response to a question from Council, Ms. Sanger explained storing water for future use or to add more water to the river to raise the cfs could be done. She used Edson Fitcher Pond as an example for storage of water. The City may also have access to the Highway Pond for the purpose of increasing the river’s cfs. 6,000 cfs criteria – this can be changed through a General Investigation review of the entire Pocatello Flood Control Project; Estimated cost of $1 Million with a 50% local match (can be in-kind) Timeframe – aggressive version (if Council chooses to move forward) was reviewed. It was noted that it will be a very long process as the application will need to go through Congress for final approval. Silt issue – working with ISU to identify silt from Marsh Creek and guide implementation with individual land owners to correct the issue. The creek has been modified and is causing more silt instead of helping to dissolve the silt. Shade along the river and higher flow through the CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION 6 JULY 13, 2017 river will help with the quality of the river. Beaver dams and other projects to promote these goals were discussed. In response to questions from Council, Tom Kirkman, Street Superintendent, reviewed the basic integrity of the concrete panels along the Portneuf River. He noted that Army Corps indicated that the walls are in good shape at this time. In closing, Ms. Sanger announced that no decision by the Council is necessary at this time. AGENDA ITEM NO. 8: Cindy Robbins, Utility Billing Director, Joyce Stroschein, Chief UTILITY BILLING Financial Officer/Treasurer; and Rich Diehl, Deputy City DEPOSIT UPDATE Attorney; provided updated information regarding deposit changes that became effective October 1, 2016. The update includes statistics to determine if the new deposit process meets the Council’s goal of reducing the number/dollar amounts of utility billing accounts being sent to collections. Ms. Stroschein gave an overview of the City’s Utility Collection accounts in November 2015 (Credit Bureau of Pocatello - $575,364.00 – 3,675 accounts) Mr. Orr questioned why staff is still using the 2015 figures. Ms. Stroschein clarified that until the delinquent funds are received, the figures are still relevant. Ms. Robbins explained the water meter reading and billing/processing timeline; and the timeline for mailing a statement notifying a user that their water services are scheduled for shutoff. General debate regarding the date water meters are read by staff, a billing is sent by mail or email and when the account is due followed. Mr. Brown shared a concept that would force rate payers to be on Level Pay. The utility bills would go out the same time every month and any water use problems could be analyzed throughout the month. The level pay amount would be connected to the address and not the individual. General discussion regarding the pros and cons of level pay for all users followed. It was suggested that staff research software that may be available to make the billing process more streamlined. Collection account change results: From October 2015 thru March 2016 (6 months) collections increased by $34,008.00 Usually 3 – 3 ½ months balance. From October 2016 thru March 2017 (6 months) collections total was $16,990.00 Now 2 – 2 ½ months balance. October 1, 2016 change to deposit amount - effects of the change were reviewed and concerns were shared. The number of shutoffs as a result of non-payment and the extra work by staff to ensure accurate billings was reviewed. Staff is looking at a phone app that will provide automatic notifications regarding a past-due account. The cost to purchase new software to automate the system would need to be considered. CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION 7 JULY 13, 2017 Having accurate information to contact individuals is also a challenge. Staff has found that many utility accounts have changed their phone listings and locating up-to-date information is a challenge. General discussion regarding the current software being used and how it is being utilized followed. It was questioned whether Utility Billing should have their own exclusive software and be a “stand alone” system. Finance staff shared their concerns with obtaining accurate information for auditing purposes, budgeting and data retrieval if a “stand alone” system was implemented. Council asked staff to check with Idaho Power, Intermountain Gas, and the water company for Boise, Idaho to verify what their practices are. Scenarios regarding utility billing startup costs were shared by Mrs. Adamson. It was noted that it is residential and not commercial accounts make up a bulk of the account issues. The concerns and conflict between deposit requirements was debated. Ms. Adamson shared that people with a good payment history feel they are being penalized and should not be required to pay a large deposit for services. Mr. Diehl shared that the City’s focus is to protect the interest of its citizens. This is accomplished by minimizing the risk of unpaid utility accounts through a utility deposit. Clarification of Resolution 2016-14 – All new accounts require a $150.00 deposit. A special waiver clarification was made upon implementation. Description of Special Waiver – When a PRIMARY RESIDENCE is selling their home and purchasing a new PRIMARY RESIDENCE within the City limits AND the previous two years of payment were on-time, a deposit would not need to be collected if they did not have one on the account. A majority of the Council instructed staff to proceed as outlined in Resolution 2016-14 and the Special Waiver for the next 6 months. It was clarified that the Special Waiver applied to residential accounts only. Mayor Blad called for a recess at 1:09 p.m. Council President Steve Brown reconvened the meeting at 2:09 p.m. Mayor Blad was excused. AGENDA ITEM NO. 9: Joyce Stroschein, Chief Financial Officer/Treasurer, was present JULY BUDGET to provide information and explanations of proposed July AMENDMENTS FOR budget amendments for Fiscal Year 2017 for the Police FISCAL YEAR 2017 Department. Ms. Stroschein gave an overview of the proposed amendments. She explained nine amendments for the Police Department are in the General Fund $4,222.00 and Other funds (Police Grants) $57,000.00. Mayor Blad joined the meeting at 2:13 p.m. at which time Council President Brown turned the chair of the meeting over to Mayor Blad. Ms. Stroschein explained the next step will be a public hearing to be held on July 20, 2017 followed by Council’s consideration of an ordinance to amend the Fiscal Year 2017 budget. CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION 8 JULY 13, 2017 Council was supportive of the proposed amendments. AGENDA ITEM NO. 10: Linda Engle, Paul Hancock and Mike Larkin; representatives CITIZENS’ CLIMATE from Citizens’ Climate Lobby Pocatello, gave a presentation LOBBY PRESENTATION regarding a market Based Solution to Climate and Energy Risk. Ms. Engle noted that the following topics would be reviewed: 1) Idaho Climate Risks; 2) Who pays for the risk?; 3) Solution; and 4) Local and National Supporters. Climate Risk in Idaho - extreme weather; snowpack and stream flows were reviewed. Who pays for these risks? – property/business owners; consumers, taxpayers as governments respond to emergencies. What is the solution? – 1) place an increasing fee on fossil fuels at the source (mine, well or port) approximately 9 cents per gallon; 2) return all revenue to households equally to pay for rise in energy costs; and 3) a border adjustment on goods imported from exported to countries without an equivalent price on carbon. Ms. Engle explained the Lobby feels these actions will stimulate the economy. More cash available to taxpayers results in more spending. She noted that energy companies benefit from predictable market price signals. Their group also feels that the program aligns with Idaho Values Carbon Fee, Dividend and Carbon Border Adjustment. Opportunities include Nuclear research INL; energy security, new natural gas production, solar potential, farmers and ranchers; wind; and ISU ESTEC: Energy Tech Training. The Citizens’ Climate Lobby objective is to create political good will and they respectfully requested that the City Council endorse Climate Action for a Carbon Fee and Dividend. Mr. Larkin distributed copies of information regarding carbon fees and dividends to the Council. AGENDA ITEM NO. 11: John Banks, Parks and Recreation Director, was present to PROPOSAL TO LOCATE review a request received from Scott Kimball of Aces Up VENDING MACHINES AT Vending Concessions, asking that the City consider allowing OK WARD AND vending concession machines at OK Ward Park and Raymond RAYMOND PARKS Park. Mr. Banks gave a brief overview of the vending proposal. Mr. Kimball’s proposal outlines the prices he plans to charge for items. Mr. Banks noted that vending is not available at a couple of park locations and installation of a machine would not negatively impact patrons using the park. Raymond Park and Alameda Park are being recommended. (OK Ward Park was removed from the proposed list.) It was noted that the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board was supportive of the request if Mr. Kimball meets all legal requirements. Mr. Banks mentioned that Legal Department staff clarified placement of the proposed vending machines would not violate any contracts already in place with Pepsi and Coca Cola. CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION 9 JULY 13, 2017 Mr. Kimball explained that he has already placed vending machines on private property sites as a pilot project. As a result, he does not feel vandalism will be an issue. Mr. Kimball reviewed potential cost savings for visitors at the park. He noted there will be no cost to the City. In closing, Mr. Kimball mentioned he will put the vending machine in a cage type structure to prevent vandalism. In response to questions from Council, Mr. Banks explained an agreement regarding placement of the vending machines will be created for Council’s consideration. He noted that vending machines in other parks have not increased garbage/litter issues in the park. Mr. Johnston was excused from the meeting at this time. (2:46 p.m.) AGENDA ITEM NO. 12: John Banks, Parks and Recreation Director, was present to PROPOSED REVISIONS review current policy and recommended revisions to current TO CITY CODE-DOGS City Code (6.04 ANIMAL SERVICES), regarding dogs being IN CITY GOLF COURSES prohibited from certain City property and recreation areas. Mr. Banks gave a brief overview of the proposed changes to the City Code regarding Animal Services. He explained the Golf Advisory Committee has expressed concerns to City staff that dogs are an on-going challenge at Highland and Riverside golf courses. Specifically in regards to dogs being off leash on the courses during the annual golf season and the associated safety concerns, as well as excessive dog waste being left on the courses. For these reasons, the Golf Advisory Committee is requesting that City Council consider revising current City Code language for Section 6.04.030 to include Highland and Riverside golf courses, making the golf courses consistent with the list of other actively programmed recreation areas where dogs are not allowed (service dogs exempted). Proposed wording for the ordinance – Highland and Riverside Golf Courses: At a minimum, during the stated annual golfing season of March 1 through October 31 yearly, as indicated in the Golf Concession Agreement, and at other times when play is active on the golf courses. Properly documented service dogs exempted. *Note: Dogs shall be permitted on the Highland and Riverside Golf Courses during the annual off-season period for golf operations, per standard leash ordinance regulations (6.04.030 – C-2). Mr. Orr suggested the wording be changed to “all City Golf Courses” in case another golf course is constructed. In response to questions from Council, Mr. Banks explained the golf concession agreement with Fore Golf has March 1 through October 31. That is why he included wording “and at other times when play is active on the golf courses” to cover special or odd dates. A majority of the Council supported the proposed changes. A final decision will be voted upon at a later date. AGENDA ITEM NO. 13: Tom Sanford, Assistant Fire Chief, and Kim Stouse, Fire PROPOSED UPDATES TO Department Community Relations, were present to discuss FIREWORKS ORDINANCE proposed updates to the City’s current Fireworks Regulation Ordinance. CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION 10 JULY 13, 2017 Mr. Sanford explained a portion of the proposed changes were initiated by Mayor Blad after he met with a concerned citizen about enforcement of the City’s Fireworks ordinance. Fire Prevention staff reviewed the ordinance and has made recommendations. He noted that many of the citizen’s concerns have been addressed through the establishment of specific hours for fireworks discharge. General discussion regarding steps to modify the ordinance in order to have consistent language and addressing language that is not currently in the ordinance followed. The proposed language is closer to what is in the State Statutes regarding time restrictions for fireworks sales and discharge of fireworks. Ms. Adamson mentioned since Pocatello and Chubbuck are located so close to each other, perhaps Pocatello’s fireworks code should be more consistent with City of Chubbuck’s codes. It was suggested the topic be placed on a Joint Cities/County meeting agenda for further discussion. Mayor Blad adjourned the meeting at 3:16 p.m. APPROVED: BRIAN C. BLAD, MAYOR ATTEST AND PREPARED BY: RUTH E. WHITWORTH, CMC, CITY CLERK