Informational Meeting

MINUTES Informational Meeting Tuesday, July 12, 2022 at 4:00 PM Carnegie Town Hall, 235 West 10th St., Sioux Falls, SD 57104 1. Call To Order Council Members Present: David Barranco, Sarah Cole (via telecom), Alex Jensen, Rich Merkouris, Greg Neitzert, Marshall Selberg, Curt Soehl Council Members Absent: Pat Starr Council Chair Curt Soehl called the meeting to order at 4 p.m. 2. Councilor Remarks There was none. 3. Presentations A. Downtown Ramp – Next Steps by Erica Beck, Chief of Staff Presentation: Approximately 20 minutes followed by discussion Erica Beck, Chief of Staff, explained that the purpose of the presentation is to provide an overview of proposed steps between now and October/November when the City will release the opportunity for future development of the ramp to the development community. Presently, an internal team is working on obtaining an updated appraisal, working with industry leaders, and meeting with the Public Parking Advisory Board in order to discuss considerations for a future project, solicit interest, and give confidence to the development community in a future project. She intends to appear at Informational Meetings again on July 26 and September 13 to discuss the project with the Council and ultimately share what was learned from stakeholders through ongoing meetings. Mark Cotter, Director of Public Works, then discussed next steps to activate the public space in a adjacent to the ramp pending development, i.e. temporarily. The goal is to create a public space to gather and recreate, painting a temporary mural on the ramp façade, and installing a plaza for walking, sitting, informal games, and small performances. The landscape would be softened with a mix of temporary field turf and painted asphalt surfaces, streetscape elements, and opportunities for artists. Discussion followed about: the mural selection process; involvement by the Sioux Falls Arts Council; the Request for Proposal and Negotiated Sales processes; engagement of sponsors for the temporary modifications; decision-making authority for final plans; the importance of ensuring the public knows the steps taken by the  City adjacent to the ramp are temporary pending development of the ramp; and, safeguards in any future contracts. B. Storm Debris Management by Regan Smith, Emergency Manager Presentation: Approximately 15 minutes followed by discussion Regan Smith, Emergency Manager, reminded the audience that incident objectives always include: life safety of the public and responders; transportation; infrastructure restoration; and, community recovery. The City debris management strategy is based on multiple factors to include: timing, location, intensity, expected operational duration, debris types and amounts, and the availability of personnel and equipment. The City's plan includes guidance on contracting, documentation, operations, environmental issues, and safety to help ensure the City is efficient and meets FEMA public assistance program rules and regulations. Smith reviewed recent debris management costs since the 2013 ice storm. He also noted the importance and value of the Helpline Center 211 Partnership, which collects damage assessments, provides information and assistance to residents impacted by natural disasters, and collects volunteer information. Kelby Mieras, Park Operations Manager, then reviewed costs and work orders associated with the May 12 storm. He underscored the value of technology and communication in addressing storm damage. He also explained requirements for tree removal and the responsibilities of the City and property owners. He concluded his portion of the presentation by reviewing the department's response to the May storm as well as operational impacts resulting from it. Dustin Hanson, Street Operations Manager, concluded the presentation by reviewing his department's May storm response and operational impacts as well. Discussion followed about: tree debris removal restrictions imposed by FEMA; the partnership with the Helpline Center; policies for storm debris drop-off; the waiving of drop-off fees; how downed powerlines are addressed by the energy companies; whether a supplemental appropriation will be required; tornado sirens; the FEMA disaster declaration process; and the cost history of storm events. 4. Public Comment Scott Ehrisman spoke about ideas to improve the aesthetics of the parking ramp, the RFP and negotiated sale processes, storm clean-up, tornado sirens, and trees in boulevards. 5. Adjournment Council Chair Curt Soehl adjourned the meeting at 4:58 p.m. Thomas M. Greco, City Clerk