DRAFT
CITY OF ROCKY RIVER
FEBRUARY 28, 2005
Regular meeting of Council was called to order by Mrs. Bobst, President of Council, at 8:07 p.m.
Council Members Present: Mr. Gollinger, Mr. Potterfield, Mr. Frost, Mr. Hurtuk,
Mrs. Bartolozzi, Mr. Hagan, Mrs. Bobst
Administration: Mayor Knoble, Mr. Linden, Mr. Thomas, Mr. Lesiecki
Law Director: Mr. Matty
Press: Mrs. McKenzie
Mrs. Bobst noted that the meeting was being recorded by a resident. The meeting was then opened with the Pledge of Allegiance. Mrs. Bobst announced that because of the presence of the Working Group on Animal Control Laws, Resolution 38-05 would be considered at the beginning of the meeting.
AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION (RESOLUTION 28-05): NONE
RESOLUTION NO. 28-05 BY MAYOR KNOBLE, LAW DIRECTOR MATTY AND ALL MEMBERS OF COUNCIL
A RESOLUTION COMMENDING THE WORKING GROUP ON ANIMAL CONTROL LAWS
1ST READING
Moved by Mr. Frost, seconded by Mr. Gollinger, that the rule requiring that Resolution No. 28-05 be read on three separate days be suspended, and that Resolution No. 28-05 be placed upon its passage:
Discussion: Mr. Frost acknowledged the presence of the working group, and indicated that the resolution should be considered while they are in attendance.
Vote: Gollinger - aye Potterfield - aye Frost - aye
Hurtuk - aye Bartolozzi - aye Hagan - aye
Bobst - aye
7 ayes 0 nays PASSED
Moved by Mr. Frost, seconded by Mrs. Bartolozzi, that Resolution No. 28-05 be passed as read:
Discussion: Mr. Frost praised the group for the volume of work that it did and noted that its many accomplishments in revising a chapter that had not been reviewed in some time warranted the thanks of the community.
Mr. Gollinger also mentioned the input of the Animal Control Officer, Mr. Hearn who worked with the group.
Mrs. Bobst praised the group for working together effectively and productively in their review of all the materials that went into the revision.
Vote: Gollinger - aye Potterfield - aye Frost - aye
Hurtuk - aye Bartolozzi - aye Hagan - aye
Bobst - aye
7 ayes 0 nays PASSED
MOTION:
Moved by Mrs. Bobst, seconded by Mr. Hurtuk and Mr. Gollinger, that the reading of the minutes of the Legislative Meeting and Executive Session of February 14, and the meeting of the Committee-of-the-Whole of February 22 be waived and that the minutes be accepted as submitted.
Vote: Gollinger - aye Potterfield - aye Frost - aye
Hurtuk - aye Bartolozzi - aye Hagan - aye
Bobst - aye
7 ayes 0 nays PASSED
MAYOR'S REPORT:
The Mayor attended a second meeting called by Congressman Kucinich in the fight to save jobs at NASA. He urged elected officials and the public to make the effort to try to make their voices heard.
A meeting was held last Thursday of a group of volunteers, the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). The group will be headed by Mrs. Beth Martin. The Mayor thanked Fire Chief Flynn, as well as Mr. Linden, for their efforts in getting the group started.
On Sunday, the Mayor participated in the Jr. Women's Club Pancake Breakfast, with proceeds to benefit the Rocky River Assistance Program. He commented that there was a wonderful turnout and a great success.
The Beautification Committee will meet on Tuesday, March 8 at 7:00 p.m. at the Don Umerley Civic Center.
Finally, the Mayor restated news first announced at the meeting of the Buildings, Equipment and Technology Committee this evening, that the City had been awarded a grant to help pay for a new fire truck. In a process begun more than a year ago, a team of firefighters and other City officials joined to apply for the grant under the Homeland Security Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, and were successful in bringing $225,000 to the City to help pay for the truck. The Mayor especially acknowledged the efforts of Lt. Bednarski and Lt. Kraus. The City will take delivery of the truck in May or June.
LAW DIRECTOR'S REPORT:
Mr. Matty reported a new lawsuit filed by William E. Grimmer, 32406 Brandon Place, Avon Lake, against the City, the City of Cleveland and unknown defendants in the matter of an accident on Lake Road in February 2003 involving an icy road due to hydrant breakage.
The Sronka lawsuit has been settled for $4750 which is within the authority given to Mr. Matty by Council. When releases are signed, an ordinance will be drafted by the Law Director.
Last week, Mr. Matty attended a meeting at the airport called by Director Mok for suburban neighbors. Available at that meeting were the results of the annual flight reports from Hopkins Airport. The Law Director was pleased to report that most of the development is on the southwest side, and noted that 64% of takeoffs went southwest, and not northeast. The airport has been monitoring flight track usage at our request, and has confirmed that the tracks over Lakewood and Cleveland are being used in addition to the flight track over our city. A noise hotline phone number exists, and Mr. Matty will obtain it so that residents can monitor and report continued air traffic noise. Resident participation will assist in monitoring that pilots do not stray from the assigned tracks.
This past month the City has requested and participated in a handicap reimbursement application through the Ohio Bureau of Unemployment Compensation. The City is entitled to monies for payments for injuries to workers caused by pre-existing conditions as authorized by statute. The Law Director is currently appealing the handicap reimbursement initially offered. In prior years, the amounts awarded have been $162,000 and $112,000 for other city requests. A hearing has been set for two weeks, and the Law Director will keep Council apprised of progress.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Finance Committee: Mr. Hurtuk reported that the Finance Committee will meet next Monday at 6:30 p.m. in the David J. Cook Council Chambers. He recalled that last year the Administration was encouraged to seek grants, and he expressed appreciation to the Administration for its excellent work which brought funds for a new fire truck. He expressed hope for similar success in the 2005 budget.
Environmental Committee: Mr. Gollinger attend the meeting of the Rocky River Watershed Council meeting at the Don Umerley Civic Center along with the Mayor and Director Linden. They heard a presentation by the Environmental Manager of Port Control for Cleveland Hopkins Airport on environmental issues, of which the most important was the culverting of Abrams Creek.
Mr. Gollinger also attended SAFE meeting where legal counsel was retained as in the past. He also reported that the organization will make no changes in the dues structure for this year.
Enlarging on the Law Director's report, he noted that most of the construction at the airport has been completed, and noise reduction is probably at its maximum. He, too, encouraged resident participation in tracking noise to give feedback to the airport when the phone number is available.
Safety Committee: Mr. Frost reported that the Safety Committee had received a draft of recommendations of the Working Group on Animal Control Laws for revisions to Chapter 505 along with a memorandum signed by the members of the group. These have been turned over to the Law Director with a request that his concerns, recommendations and suggestions be made by March 21 when the matter will be on the agenda for discussion at the Committee-of-the-Whole. At that time it will be decided if further committee meetings are required or if the Law Director can move forward and draft the ordinance.
Buildings, Equipment and Technology: Mrs. Bartolozzi reported that her committee had met this evening at 7:00 to discuss information on long-range capital improvements and announcement of the fire truck grant. Mr. Linden had discussed equipment replacement, and Mr. Gottschalk had given committee members an overview of the new server and how the GIS system works.
COMMUNICATIONS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Mary L. O'Connor, 19129 Colahan Drive, wrote to express support for Tony Spremulli and his garage at the corner of Wooster and Shoreland. (Exhibit "A")
Mr. Gollinger has received a letter and newspaper article from Janet Mainzer, 3167 Linden Drive on smoking and the environment. (Exhibit "B")
No changes were requested to the Consent Agenda by members of Council.
Before audience participation, Mayor Knoble commented on Resolution No. 1-05, the intent to appropriate a fee simple interest in certain real estate. He noted that Mr. Gollinger had made an excellent historical summary of the situation last week, and invited residents to consult the minutes on the City's website.
The Mayor observed that this issue has been clouded by the current tenant of the property. Efforts by the City to examine and obtain the property go back a number of years before the current owner, Mitch Abdullah. This is clearly an issue for public purpose use of the property. In this situation, adjoining retail properties have inadequate parking and the overflow parks on residential side streets. The Mayor stated he has never had any intention to use appropriation of a residence or any kind of property to resell for a private development.
This property is to be acquired for three public purposes: an enclosed RTA bus shelter, a small park with a bench and pavers, bushes etc, and a parking area. He hopes that it will inspire other business owners to improve their properties. The parking area will be for daytime use only for shoppers. This has nothing to do with the current tenant, and the City has made every effort to arrive at a financial agreement which would allow the current owner a generous settlement. The current tenant would be relocated with certain expenses covered. At a meeting in October 2003, an agreement was reached, and all parties shook on it. Later, the tenant changed his mind.
AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION:
Mr. Matty requested that participants record their names and addresses before comments were made.
Mark Jordan, 2138 Wooster Rd., lives next to the property in question. He is in favor of passing the resolution which he believes will improve the neighborhood and make it a better place in which to live.
John Higham, 19603 Riverwood Ave., has known Mr. Spremulli for three years and finds him to be an honest mechanic. He pointed out that, freshly painted, the garage property has never looked better. It is up to Code in many area. He is in favor of allowing a smaller businessman to have his dream.
Bob Myers, 22677 Beechnut Lane, is also a small businessman who has had his business on W. 65th taken by the City who properly compensated him. He said that the City has every right to appropriate property as long as it is not for a private development. He concurs with the Mayor and the Council, particularly since an agreement was in place before one party backed out. He asked if the agreement was in writing. The Mayor said that it was a verbal agreement and that when the documents were drafted, the tenant declined to sign. Mr. Myers reiterated the fact that he thought eminent domain can be a very good city tool when used for the public good. He hoped that Mr. Spremulli would yield and that the owner would be willing to sell.
Angelo Franchi, 2581 Westmoor, asked if a study was done. He said that although the Mayor has stated that cars park on the street, he has never seen the parking lot overflowing, and further wondered who would be catching the bus there. He thinks that the situation merits further study, and wondered why the City did not buy the property when it was available. He asked if there is pressure from another party.
Duane Zauner, 20877 Stanford, Fairview Park said that he works at the garage and that he would lose his job. It does not seem fair to take someone's livelihood. He has seen the letter circulated by Mr. Dever and pointed out Mr. Dever's interest in the matter.
Tom Cahill, 20701 Avalon explained that he was a former member of the Rocky River Fire Department, and in 1987 and 1991, he served as the City's Fire Marshal. Even at that time, several residents complained about the garage that was there at that time. He believes that it is an eyesore, and that it is time that it be taken down and regenerated. He supports the Mayor and Council in the taking of this property by eminent domain and said that this is its purpose. A park would be enjoyed by all neighbors.
Anthony Spremulli, 20147 Hilliard Blvd.,is the operator of the business. He thanked residents who came to support him.
He chose to respond to some remarks made by Mr. Gollinger at last week's meeting.
Gerald Phillips, 35955 Detroit Road is Mr. Spremulli's attorney. He stated that Mr. Spremulli did not back out of an agreement, but refused it. He did not give false information to those he asked to sign his petitions. He was not contacted by the City about relocation. In fact, petition circulators were approached by police who told them they needed a permit to canvass. He said that the property is not an eyesore, nor blighted. At the Planning, Zoning and Economic Development Committee meeting held last week, he agreed with Chairman Earl Potterfield who said that passage of this resolution could be precedent-setting. He attacked the public purposes cited by the City saying that the park was too small, the bus shelter would only correct a former mistake, and parking is unnecessary as shown by the signatures of 7 of 9 businesses.
Jean McNamara, 19019 Schlather Lane, was concerned that Mr. Spremulli had not been offered relocation assistance for his business. She asked, in light of the fact that this is an auto service facility, whether there are environmental issues, such as disposal of oil. She also expressed concern about what type people would be attracted to the parking area and the bus shelter. She wondered if people would park and go downtown, and did not think it would benefit all the people of Rocky River.
Patti Helleis, 19425 Shoreland said that a parking lot is not really necessary. She rarely sees people parked on the street. As for buses, most bus traffic is on Hilliard or Detroit, and a shelter is not necessary. The funds used for these two purposes would be spent in a better way, such as new curbs. She felt that although some consider this an eyesore, she thinks it looks better than ever. She said the River Market is becoming an eyesore.
Mary D. Cook, 19433 Riverwood Ave. is in favor of this resolution. She feels it is important, however, to address other deteriorating properties and challenges the City to be consistent and also address other properties, such as the garage on the corner of Linda and Lake.
Jody Hobson, 19441 Riverwood Ave., said that their property is not troubled by cars parked in front of it, as most park on the north side. She asked if this would affect the parking on Riverwood or whether it will still be allowed. Mayor Knoble said that it is clear that there is some non-resident parking on Riverwood which has more of a problem than Shoreland. He hopes that this parking facility will accommodate daytime store customers who now park in front of the homes closest to Wooster. Parking regulations remain to be determined.
Jean Corbin, 19232 Shoreland, has the home directly behind the garage, and is 100% in favor of improvement of that lot. She is concerned, however, about the possibility of exchanging one problem for another. She wondered how close this parking facility would be to her house, and she wondered if people would loiter in the area. She was afraid that a parking lot and park were not a good solution but would create another problem for her.
Josh Sanford, 19312 Shoreland, does not think that a parking lot and RTA shelter will beautify the area at all. The garage is the nicest and cleanest he has seen and better than the shopping center. There is an RTA stop two blocks down. Mr. Spremulli has plowed some distance down Shoreland when it snows and maintains his property well.
Michael O'Shea, 21714 Aberdeen, used to live at 19470 Laurel Avenue and is interested in the area. He is usually interested in the "small guy", but when he lived in the area, he wondered why the garage was there, as it does not fit the zoning. During his involvement in a political campaign, he spoke to many residents who asked about the garage. In his unscientific study, 7 or 8 out of 10 were concerned about the location of that business in the neighborhood. Although he agreed with the Mayor and Mr. Gollinger, he hoped they could work with the tenant to find a location where this business can go. He also cautioned that passage of this resolution would mean only the first step of several before the process is complete.
Brian McDonough, 19277 Henry, Fairview Park, is a volunteer magistrate for the Rocky River Juvenile Diversion Program. He said that whatever the size, he is pro-park. He empathizes with both the tenant and the City, but in the end, he said that the City is interested in esthetics as evidenced by renovations on Center Ridge and Detroit, and even though painted, it is still a 70-year-old garage. The new park would be a wonderful complement to the shops along Wooster and great for the City.
Jennifer Schneider, 2159 Wooster Rd., has lived in the Cliff Towers for five years, but admired it for a long time before that. She feels that Mr. Spremulli would have a large following no matter where he locates, and she would be in favor of a facelift which would be better for the homes in the area and for Cliff Towers.
Steve Dever, 2126 Wooster Rd, lives two doors from the garage. In 2000 he renovated a 1898 century home and reviewed briefly the history of the former gas station, learned from the former owner, Nora Lyons. He noted that in the Master Plan, Wooster Road was indicated as obsolete and in need of a makeover. He pointed out that there have been two serious crimes on Wooster, very close to this neighborhood, and that there are many "for rent" signs and vacancies. This could make landlords reluctant to make the checks necessary to insure quality tenants. He distributed 500 leaflets over the weekend and noted 10 vacant houses on Telbir and Shoreland. Everything possible should be done to upgrade the neighborhood. He mentioned that he had learned from Nora Lyons that the property was vacant for almost two years, in 1979 and 1980, so the grandfather clause should be ended. Mr. Spremulli knew of the City's intention to purchase the property before he began his business. Mr. Dever further encouraged Council members to proceed because this facelift could be a catalyst to further economic development. He also collected signatures in favor of the City's plan, and asserted that he had 98 signatures.
Ellen McCarthy, 9 Ashley Ct., moved into Rocky River because she was no longer confident of property values in Fairview Park. She applauded Mr. Dever for his concerns and for raising the question of property values. She feels that businesses that look like this affect property values. She stated that eminent domain is not to be used as a weapon, and the City must comply with the spirit and letter of the law and help Mr. Spremulli relocate his business.
Fred I. Sokol, 20021 Parkview, applauded the great turnout, both for and against the issue. He said that he is always concerned about the "little guy" and that he is opposed to the passage of Resolution No. 5-01 this evening. Saying, "correct me if I'm wrong," he said Mr. Matty had indicated that two other times eminent domain has been considered and was not completed, in 1988 in the Yacht Club Basin, and in 1993 in the purchase of the Ramada. Tonight's issue should be reconsidered, and he would vote no.
Eric Mack, 19474 Riverwood, lives a short distance from Spremulli's. He has been a customer and has been treated fairly and appreciates the convenience. As to the bus service, it comes once an hour and stops early in the evening. Unless service is increased, there is no need for a shelter. He does not feel that Resolution No. 1-05 would be a good use of City funds and is opposed. It would take away a tax-paying business. There are much worse eyesores.
Craig W. Thomas, 19033 Colahan Dr., is a 42-year resident of the City and he feels that this is a waste of taxpayers' money and not a good way to spend $260,000. The area near the end of Wooster is in disrepair and has never been fixed. Funds are needed for the infrastructure and it would be irresponsible to spend any money on this property while there are streets in the community which need repair.
Chris Jordan, 702 Elmwood, has patronized Tony's garage. He said that the City's argument is with the landowner who is not present. He believes that Tony should be given help by the City to relocate.
RESOLUTION NO. 133-04 BY EARL W. POTTERFIELD
A RESOLUTION ADOPTING A COMPREHENSIVE GENERAL PLAN KNOWN AS THE ROCKY RIVER MASTER PLAN
This resolution has been referred to the Planning Commission and is also under discussion by the Planning, Zoning and Economic Development Committee of Council.
RESOLUTION NO. 1-05 BY MAYOR WILLIAM F. KNOBLE
A RESOLUTION OF INTENT TO APPROPRIATE A FEE SIMPLE INTEREST IN CERTAIN REAL ESTATE
This resolution has been read twice and would be available for passage this evening, but Mrs. Bobst felt that there should be another opportunity to review it, so it will be on the agenda of the Committee-of-the-Whole next week where there will be another opportunity for Council members to discuss it.
Mayor Knoble restated certain facts in this case:
Mr. Gollinger reiterated the fact that there is no environmental issue. The relocation of the bus stop is not to correct a mistake; it was moved because the activity of the prior tenant make that location unsafe. Concerning outside pressure, he, too, emphasized that the move was under consideration long before Mr. Dever moved onto his property.
Mr. Matty responded to a question from Mr. McDonough and Mr. O'Shea as to why the owner of the property was not in attendance. As of last Friday, Mr. Matty indicated that the owner is in complete agreement with the compensation offered and is ready, willing and able to sell. His problem is with the tenant; with their lease, there is no condemnation or eminent domain clause, and the owner will face an issue with the tenant.
Mr. Frost added that he had seen the property, and it is in nice condition and Mr. Spremulli runs a nice business. However, in listening to residents this evening, it is clear that improvement is needed for the reason that a service garage is non-conforming in that location, and no matter how well-run, it does not belong in that residential neighborhood.
As requested by a resident, he would hope for consistency, if action is needed at Lake and Linda. He pointed out that tonight, Mr. Spremulli has acknowledged that before Mr. Spremulli began building his business, he knew of the City's desire to terminate a non-conforming use, and he went ahead anyway and started his business. To Mr. Spremulli's comment that no one from the City had contacted him to try to move his business, Mr. Frost indicated that he hoped the Administration would follow through.
In responding to comments from other residents, Mr. Frost noted that it would be convenient to have a garage on the corner, but it is non-conforming and he has heard no compelling reason from the tenant as to why the business should remain.
For those who mocked the size of the park, he noted that there will be a park in his ward on Bates which will be a similar size, and in Lakewood, one at West Clifton and Clifton. Mr. Frost further said that residents deserve to know where he stands, and he asserted that he is in favor of the ordinance. He would welcome input via e-mail; his address is on the City's website.
ORDINANCE NO. 2-05 BY EARL W. POTTERFIELD
AN ORDINANCE TO CHANGE THE DISTRICT CLASSIFICATION OF CERTAIN REAL PROPERTY KNOWN AS AUDITOR'S PERMANENT PARCEL NOS. 301-17-001, 301-17-005, 301-17-006 AND 301-17-018 FROM THEIR PRESENT CLASSIFICATION OF LOCAL BUSINESS TO MULTI-FAMILY (MF-R5), AS FURTHER DESCRIBED IN EXHIBIT "A"
This rezoning ordinance has been read twice and recommended by the Planning Commission. The required Public Hearing has been scheduled for March 21 at 8:00 p.m.
ORDINANCE NO. 22-05 BY BRIAN A. HURTUK
AN EMERGENCY ORDINANCE TO MAKE APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE CURRENT EXPENSES OF THE CITY OF ROCKY RIVER, OHIO, DURING THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2005 AND TO REPEAL ORDINANCE 186-04
2ND READING
Mr. Hurtuk indicated that this $52 million budget will be discussed by the Finance Committee at its meeting next week at 6:30 in the David J. Cook Council Chambers. The Public Hearing on the budget has been scheduled for March 14 when it can be read for the third time.
ORDINANCE NO. 24-05 BY BRIAN F. HAGAN
AN ORDINANCE REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 134-04 AND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO AN AMENDED WESTSHORE COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS AGREEMENT FOR THE CENTRAL DISPATCH CENTER, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY
1ST READING
This agreement will be discussed next week at the Committee-of-the-Whole.
ORDINANCE NO. 29-05 BY ROBERT S. FROST
AN EMERGENCY ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC SAFETY-SERVICE TO ENTER INTO CONTRACT WITH GENE PTACEK AND SON FIRE EQUIPMENT COMPANY, INC., FOR THE GENERAL MAINTENANCE AND EMERGENCY REPAIR OF FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEMS WITHIN BUILDINGS OWNED BY THE CITY OF ROCKY RIVER FOR A PERIOD OF ONE (1) YEAR NOT TO EXCEED $20,000.00 PER YEAR
1ST READING
This contract also will be discussed next week at the Committee-of-the-Whole.
ORDINANCE NO. 30-05 BY PAMELA E. BOBST
AN EMERGENCY ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 951 OF THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF ROCKY RIVER, ENTITLED "CITY SWIMMING POOL", AND AS FURTHER DESCRIBED IN THE ATTACH3ED EXHIBIT "A"
1ST READING
All Council members have had a letter from Mr. Patterson explaining the changes which will be discussed next week at the Committee-of-the-Whole. There are no increases for residents in this ordinance.
ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS UNDER CONSENT
ORDINANCE NO. 19-05 BY PAMELA E. BOBST
AN EMERGENCY ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC SAFETY SERVICE TO PURCHASE AN UNDETERMINED NUMBER OF T-SHIRTS FOR THE CITY OF ROCKY RIVER FROM ADLER TEAM SPORTS FOR ONE YEAR
2ND READING
This ordinance authorizes the purchase of T-shirts for Recreation and other programs.
ORDINANCE NO. 20-05 BY PAMELA E. BOBST
AN EMERGENCY ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 952 OF THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF ROCKY RIVER ENTITLED "INDOOR SOCCER FACILITY", AND AS FURTHER DESCRIBED IN EXHIBIT "A"
2ND READING
There are minimal increases in this ordinance which changes indoor soccer league fees.
ORDINANCE NO. 25-05 BY BRIAN A. HURTUK
AN EMERGENCY ORDINANCE CREATING THE POSITION OF COMMUNITY SERVICE OFFICER AND FIXING THE HOURLY RATE FOR SAID APPOINTED EMPLOYEE IN THE POLICE DIVISION OF THE CITY OF ROCKY RIVER AND AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 7-05
1ST READING
As discussed at the first Finance Committee meeting, a new position of CSO will be created with this ordinance.
ORDINANCE NO. 26-05 BY ROBERT S. FROST
AN EMERGENCY ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 139.01 OF THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF ROCKY RIVER ENTITLED "COMPOSITION" AS FURTHER DESCRIBED IN THE ATTACHED EXHIBIT "A"
1ST READING
This ordinance changes the Code to reflect the addition of the CSO.
RESOLUTION NO. 27-05 MAYOR KNOBLE, LAW DIRECTOR MATTY AND ALL MEMBERS OF COUNCIL
A RESOLUTION OPPOSING PRESIDENT BUSH'S PROPOSED JOB CUTS AT NASA
1ST READING
As discussed at the last Committee-of-the-Whole, this is an effort to save resident jobs. Support is appreciated.
Moved by Mrs. Bobst, seconded by Mr. Hurtuk, that the rule requiring that the ordinances and resolution on the Consent Agenda be read on three separate days be suspended, and that the stated ordinances and resolution be placed upon their passage:
Discussion: See individual ordinances above.
Vote: Gollinger - aye Potterfield - aye Frost - aye
Hurtuk - aye Bartolozzi - aye Hagan - aye
Bobst - aye
7 ayes 0 nays PASSED
Moved by Mrs. Bobst, seconded by Mr. Gollinger, that the stated ordinances be passed as read:
Discussion: See individual ordinances above.
Vote: Gollinger - aye Potterfield - aye Frost - aye
Hurtuk - aye Bartolozzi - aye Hagan - aye
Bobst - aye
7 ayes 0 nays PASSED
MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS: NONE
AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION:
Fred I. Sokol, 20021 Parkview Avenue, wished to make it clear that he had not attempted to mislead or give wrong information on when eminent domain was used. He asked the Law Director to correct him if he was wrong, and as his recorder failed, he was unable to access the information from the meeting.
MOTION:
Moved by Mrs. Bobst, seconded by Mr. Gollinger, that, at the request of the Law Director, an Executive Session be held immediately following the meeting for a conference with an attorney for the public body concerning disputes involving the public body that are the subject of pending or imminent court action under Article X, Section 6, Subsection 3 of the Charter.
Vote: Gollinger - aye Potterfield - aye Frost - aye
Hurtuk - aye Bartolozzi - aye Hagan - aye
Bobst - aye
7 ayes 0 nays PASSED
As there was no further business by members of Council, the meeting was adjourned at 10:17 p.m.
_______________________________ _______________________________
Pamela E. Bobst Misao Kurokawa
President of Council Clerk of Council
Please note: This is a draft copy of the minutes of the Legislative Meeting of February 28, 2005. These minutes may be revised or amended at the next Legislative Meeting.
DRAFT
CITY OF ROCKY RIVER
FEBRUARY 28, 2005
Buildings, Equipment and Technology Committee
The meeting of the Buildings, Equipment and Technology Committee was called to order by the Chairman, Mrs. Bartolozzi, at 7:00 p.m. in the David J. Cook Council Chambers.
Committee Members Present: Mrs. Bartolozzi, Mr. Frost, Mr. Potterfield
Absent: Mr. Hurtuk
Council members present: Mrs. Bobst, Mr. Gollinger, Mr. Hagan
Administration: Mayor Knoble, Mr. Linden, Mr. Gottschalk, Chief Flynn
Law Director: Mr. Matty
After a statement that the meeting was being recorded by a resident, Mrs. Bartolozzi stated that this meeting, like the one held in July of 2004 will give an overview of major equipment purchases. To that end, she has invited Mayor Knoble, Mr. Linden and Mr. Gottschalk to comment on their respective areas.
Mayor Knoble began by recalling minutes of the Council Finance Committee meeting of February 23, 2004 when the need for a new fire truck was announced. Reading from the minutes, he cited the need for a new pumper as expressed by Chief Flynn and further read,
"Mr. Hurtuk wondered if the new pumper has been discussed with the Administration. Chief Flynn said that it has, but that no decision has been reached as yet. Mr. Hurtuk wondered if a grant could possibly help pay for the vehicle. It is being explored."
In March, Lt. Kraus prepared specifications and Lt. Bednarski, aided by Mrs. Bednarski and Mr. Koran, prepared the grant application.
Following a number of meetings over the issue, in November of last year, travel was authorized for Chief Flynn, Lt. Kraus and Tony Bramante of the vehicle maintenance department, to go to Florida to explore options, see demonstrations and determine exact specifications for a new truck which would fit our department's needs.
The Mayor was pleased to announce that the City has been awarded $225,000 to be applied to the purchase of the firefighting vehicle by the Department of Homeland Security under the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program. The Mayor added that with the funds currently set aside from donations, etc. and by postponing the purchase of a garbage truck, the City will be able to make up the additional $130,000 which will be required to purchase the equipment.
Chief Flynn introduced the two firefighters responsible for the grant preparation, Lt. Bednarski and Lt. Kraus. He thanked them for their work which, despite the long odds, brought the funds for the new fire truck to our City. A June delivery is expected.
Continuing with long-range plans of the City Administration, the Mayor distributed a report which outlines long-term plans for buildings, equipment and technology. (Exhibit "A") He noted that there is no particular time frame attached to these projects; that some will be done this year, and some within five years.
Mr. Linden then reviewed the purchase of new equipment. Working from a chart he had prepared, he noted which dump trucks, packers, trailers, scooters, Senior Center, and police and fire vehicles will be replaced this year. His chart showed the schedule for replacement which insures that the City always has equipment in good condition to serve resident needs. He noted that totals could change depending on what was purchased and what was needed.
Mr. Linden was followed by Mr. Gottschalk, the City's GIS specialist, who continued with an overview of the City's computer and GIS system. Mr. Gottschalk had prepared an inventory of computer equipment, sorted by department and age of computer. Police and Fire Department computers were not included, as they have separate systems.
He noted that the City currently has three servers: one in the Finance Department, one for recreation and the Senior Center, and the GIS server for all other City Hall departments. At present, the server for the Recreation Department and the Senior Center is in need of replacement. The unit proposed by Dell would be large enough to replace all three individual servers, and is ten times larger that the one it will replace.
Mr. Gottschalk then discussed the GIS system with a series of printouts showing that over a base map, the system can bring up building footprints, footprints with parcel lines, detailed information on any single parcel or group of parcels, sanitary sewer lines and even aerial photographs. Even more applications are possible.
Mrs. Bartolozzi commented that this system must be a timesaver.
Mr. Matty asked how soon residents would be able to access this information from home computers.
As there was no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:28 p.m.
_______________________________ _______________________________
Linda S. Bartolozzi, Chairman Misao Kurokawa
Buildings, Equipment and Clerk of Council
Technology Committee
Please note: This is a draft copy of the minutes of the meeting of the Buildings, Equipment and Technology Committee of February 28, 2005. These minutes may be revised or amended at the next Legislative Meeting.
DRAFT
CITY OF ROCKY RIVER
FEBRUARY 28, 2005
Safety Committee
The meeting of the Safety Committee was called to order by the Chairman, Mr. Frost, at 7:32 p.m. in the David J. Cook Council Chambers.
Safety Committee Members Present: Mr. Frost, Mrs. Bartolozzi, Mr. Hagan, Mr. Gollinger
Also Present: Working Group on Animal Control Laws
Dr. Parraga, Ms. Pfeil, Ms. Gasper, Ms. Godfrey, Dr. Reveley, Mr. Skelly
Ms. Snyder
Absent: Ms. Sweet
Council Members present: Mrs. Bobst, Mr. Hagan
Administration: Mayor Knoble, Mr. Linden
Law Director: Mr. Matty
Mr. Frost announced that participants should be aware that their comments were being recorded by a resident.
Mr. Frost then briefly reviewed the forming of the Working Group on Animal Control Laws, from its inception from an idea in April, 2003, to the present group which was sworn in in January, 2004. They were charged with reviewing Chapter 505, and it was hoped that the project could be completed within a year.
Following preliminary meetings with the Safety Committee, the group went on to meet, discuss, review, debate, amend and finally to formalize their recommended changes to the Code.
At this evening's meeting, they will present their recommendations to the Safety Committee as well as a letter signed by all the members. The work of the Safety Committee will now begin where the Working Group's ends. Mr. Frost invited all members to remain in touch as Council deliberates and decides which changes will be made and how they will be incorporated into the new chapter. He then introduced the group's chairman, Dr. Isabel Parraga.
Dr. Parraga commented that ten group members with eclectic views and differing opinions were able to accomplish their goal in a year and a half. They were aided by a national and local consultant, review of materials from other cities and the State, input from the Mayor and feedback from 45 residents, in person, by phone and e-mail. The resulting proposal does not violate the Ohio Code, nor is it less stringent. She then turned to members of her group who presented individual sections which they had researched and led.
An area not explored for inclusion in Chapter 505 is an off-leash area, which the group felt was outside its purview. They recommended that perhaps these parks, which received resident support to provide opportunities for dogs to be off-leash, may be pursued by a group of interested residents.
Mr. Frost thanked the group members for doing a great deal of work on a Code chapter which is tremendously important because it affects a large number of residents. He indicated the need for public input, and noted that the group had already heard from many residents. He praised their subcommittee system and the initiative they have taken in working independently.
Turning to the Law Director, he requested that the document be reviewed over the next couple of weeks, and any suggestions, concerns, or problems be directed to him. He will then be able to poll Council at the meeting of the Committee-of-the-Whole following that as to whether or not to direct the Law Director to draft legislation to move forward. It is the intention of the Safety Committee to hold one public meeting before legislation is adopted, and he recommended reserving comments of the Safety Committee until that public forum.
Once more, he thanked all members of the working group for the tremendous amount of work accomplished, asking them to remain for the Legislative Meeting so that they could be recognized by all members of Council.
As there was no further discussion by members of the Safety Committee, the meeting was adjourned at 8:02 p.m.
_______________________________ _______________________________
Robert S. Frost, Chairman Misao Kurokawa
Safety Committee Clerk of Council
Please note: This is a draft copy of the minutes of the meeting of the Safety Committee of February 28, 2005. These minutes may be amended or revised at the next Legislative Meeting.