DRAFT
CITY OF ROCKY RIVER
JULY 19, 2004
The Committee-of-the-Whole was called to order by Mrs. Bobst, President of Council, at 8:22 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. Patterson, Mr. Koran
Assistant Law Director: Mr. Hotz
Press: Mrs. McKenzie, Mr. White
MAYOR'S REPORT:
Council welcomed the Mayor's father, visiting from Florida.
Mayor Knoble acknowledged that phone service to much of the City has been interrupted. The contractor working on the Wooster Road bridge had unwittingly cut through the phone cable with a concrete saw. Mr. Linden said that 800 homes were without phones. SBC has been called and hopes to restore power before the early morning hours.
The Mayor and directors met with a representative of EASE, the City's employee assistance provider. Programs were reviewed, and a short video was provided for the information of new employees.
The Senior Center Art Show features 55 artists and 148 pieces. It will run through the end of the month. The Mayor said that it was a very good display and since it is open to the public, encouraged all to attend during regular Senior Center hours.
A notice of the dedication of the new high school field has been received. It will be held Monday, August 23 at 7:30 p.m.
Tomorrow the Planning Commission will consider a number of important issues including a preliminary design of the new Beachcliff Market Square, two new townhouse developments, ordinances on drive-through service businesses referred by Council, and a kiosk on Detroit Road..
A band concert was held last Sunday. Two more will be held, on July 25 and August 8.
Last Thursday, the Administration entertained five mayors from Kosovo who have toured many cities all over the U.S. Rocky River was their last stop. They toured the building and the Mayor found the experience very interesting.
Finance Director Thomas and the Mayor met with three organizations who act as bond advisors. These are three of the top six who have issued tax-exempt municipal bonds in the state: 5/3 Bank, A.G. Edwards, and National City Bank. All gave excellent presentations, and all are extremely well-qualified. The Mayor expressed confidence that any one of them would do an excellent job for the City. His recommendation was National City with John Petty, the managing director. This is based upon Mr. Petty's knowledge of Rocky River and the fact that he has worked with other cities through multiple administrations. Fees are all negotiable and are all close. The Mayor said that he was ready to proceed as soon as a consensus is reached by Council.
Mr. Patterson was asked to speak on the Funfest sponsored by Community Challenge. Mr. Patterson indicated that for the first time in 10 or 12 years, the weather was a problem. Later in the day, there was a large turnout and the inflatable games were set up so it was still a good event.
Finally, Mr. Koran was asked to speak on the proposed Beachcliff Market Square project. In giving a short history of the project, he commented that when the West End project in Lakewood was defeated, he had discussions with Madison Marquette, the owners of Beachcliff Market Square, about this project. They have owned Beachcliff for approximately five years. This firm, with 26 million sq. ft under development, is now interested in moving forward. Beachcliff now has approximately 51,600 sq ft and is a non-anchored center. Madison Marquette feels that without this redevelopment, tenancy will eventually fall to 50%. There are currently 8 vacancies, or 13,000 sq ft. Major competition will come from Crocker Park, a development of between 1.6 and 2 million sq ft whose representatives are talking to current tenants of Beachcliff as well as prospective tenants.
The addition of the Paysage property will allow a development of about 100,000 sq ft. of new retail. The existing former theater building will be saved and opened on its west side. The new north and west sides will see a 66,000 sq ft retail village. The current project will spend $21 to $23 million and it is anticipated that its value will be more than $28.5 million. Stores will be approached by sidewalk with tenant awnings. Although the mix of stores is fluid and changing, among tenants mentioned are Aveda School, Williams-Sonoma, Pottery Barn, Chico's, Smith & Hawken, Pier I and Ann Taylor. Talks are ongoing with existing tenants; Pearl of the Orient has already signed on. All the prospective tenants are nationally recognized specialty stores.
One problem is parking. In the course of discussion, many solutions were explored. Under consideration is the construction of a parking garage under the retail space. This could accommodate 120-130 cars. This would take advantage of the difference in grade between the site and the railroad. The current plan shows a 120-car parking garage and 244 surface spaces which would total 364 or 3.7 per 1000 sq. ft. Adding that which is available through agreements with the Rocky River Methodist Church and Dawson Insurance would make 5.5 per 1000 sq. ft. Because of the high cost of garage construction, the developers have asked for assistance. Through negotiations, a proposal has been put forward in which the City would lease the garage from the developers for 15 years. The amount of this lease over 15 years would be $980,000. Conditions are that the garage must be open to the public with no reserved spaced except for ADA requirements. There would be no other City subsidy. Madison Marquette would retain ownership of the garage for the life of the development.
This development would have a great financial impact. Based on the proposed square footage, a payroll of $6 to $8 million could be anticipated which would provide income taxes of $90,000 to $120,000 per year. In addition, property taxes would provide $100,000 for the schools and $30,000 for the City. These are conservative estimates.
Mr. Koran pointed out that there is great competition with Crocker Park and Great Northern. Some ordinances and lease agreements will be necessary. The Planning Commission plans to review preliminary plans tomorrow evening. The existing parking agreement needs to be reviewed by the Planning Commission. On Wednesday evening, a special meeting of the Chamber of Commerce will be held on the status of the project.
Mayor Knoble added his comments: this project is not asking the City for property acquisition, tax abatement, or tax increment financing. The City cannot afford to let this development go.
Mr. Potterfield, noting that commercial parking requirements were liberalized about a year and a half ago, asked if the development could meet those requirements.
Mr. Potterfield asked if there is a difference between leasing the garage and tax abatement.
In reviewing the redevelopment plan submitted to the City, Mr. Hagan informed Council that the Kevin Hagan, a developer of this plan for Madison Marquette from Franklin Tennessee, is not related to him in any way.
Mr. Gollinger then added that when different alternatives were considered, although costs of construction were not that different, maintenance was an issue. With this plan, the developers will maintain the garage without help from the City.
Mr. Hurtuk suggested that some time be given Council to digest this material and indicated that if representatives from Madison Marquette and Mr. Koran would attend the first Committee meeting on Tuesday, September 7, further discussion could be held and any questions answered.
Mr. Frost asked about the site plan. Mr. Koran said that the developers had an option to purchase Taylor Motors but will not purchase Jan Dell.
Mr. Gollinger asked if the plans have been reviewed by the church.
Mr. Hurtuk asked Mr. Koran is there is any news on Westgate. Mr. Koran said that when he calls he is always told that there are no plans in the works. The tenants interested in Beachcliff are not looking for the Center Ridge location in a mall. Jacobs tells Mr. Koran that Westgate Mall is doing fine.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
Ordinances No. 84-05, 85-05, 86-05 and 87-05: These ordinances establish drive-through service businesses. The ordinances have been submitted to the Planning Commission for consideration at their meeting tomorrow evening. The issue was discussed in committee this evening so that Mr. Gollinger could give his views.
Ordinance No. 90-04: This ballot issue would allow voters to decide if the Mayor should appoint chiefs for the Fire and Police Departments. Mayor Knoble had a meeting with George Kraus, President of the Rocky River Fire Fighters, discussing a number of issues. He has also had a lengthy conversation with Mr. Matty who will be exploring a number of legal issues. It appears that the only way to accomplish the proposed change is by further changes to the Charter. The issue is complicated, and it appears that State law prohibits giving an examination to the next two ranks at the same time. It may be necessary to take each rank individually unless the Charter is changed. City Council can set qualifications for appointed chiefs and make those as restrictive as it chooses. Any information gathered by Mr. Matty will be distributed during the week.
The Mayor emphasized once more that the issue is not personal, but a question of leadership. He has no misgivings that we can have a good strong candidate in the department ranks, but on the chance that there are not three, he feels the need to have an alternative. He will ask for a vote next week.
Resolution No. 91-04: Mr. Hagan explained this ordinance remains on hold until he hears from the Law Director.
Ordinance No. 101-04: This ordinance on the sale of municipal property came out of committee with a recommendation and will be again considered by the Contracts Committee on July 26 at 7:00 p.m. He hopes a recommendation will come from that meeting.
Ordinance No. 108-04: Mr. Linden spoke on the sidewalk/concrete program. This is passed every year to maintain sidewalks and other replacements. Mr. Hagan asked that this be place on the Consent Agenda.
Ordinance No. 109-04: This contract administration for the outdoor pool has already been budgeted. Mr. Hagan requested Consent Agenda.
Ordinance No. 110-04: The existing contract for ambulance billing requires renewal. Mr. Linden added that the City requested a two-year contract, but Life Force Management will renew only year by year. The cost is the same as last year. He requested passage as soon as possible. This will be on the Consent Agenda next week.
Ordinance No. 111-04: This ordinance authorizes the purchase of items needed for City vehicles such as oil filters, belts, batteries, wipers, and other frequently needed parts. Nine suppliers took out specifications, but only two bid on the project On 37 of 51 items the prices are the same or lower than last year. This will be on the Consent Agenda.
MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS:
Satellite Dishes: Mrs. Bobst referred to an article in the Plain Dealer of Tuesday, July 13 on the subject. She has discussed it with Mr. Matty. He is pursuing research on the topic and will secure documents for review in August, after which he will provide recommendations.
Infrastructure and Pool Bond Issue: This was already discussed.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Environmental Committee: Mr. Gollinger reported that his committee met this evening to hear from Mr. Patrick Holland, the Executive Director of the Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District, on recycling and waste management. One conclusion is that communication between the City and its residents is very important so that the City can provide information helpful to all.
Planning, Zoning and Economic Development Committee: Mr. Potterfield indicated that his committee had met briefly this evening. Mr. Gollinger offered comments relative to discussions on drive-throughs. The issue will be reviewed by the Planning Commission tomorrow evening.
Safety Committee: Mr. Frost mentioned the meeting of the Working Group on Animal Control Laws which is scheduled for July 21 at 7:00 p.m. in the Committee Room. On the agenda will be dangerous/vicious dogs, electronic pet containment systems, and public awareness/enforcement.
Parks and Recreation Commission: Mrs. Bobst announced that the Commission will meet on Wednesday at 8:00 a.m. in the Community Room at the Don Umerley Civic Center.
Contracts - Government and Judicial: Mr. Hagan stated that his committee will meet next Monday at 7:00 a.m. in the David J. Cook Council Chambers.
NEW BUSINESS:
Ordinance No. 114-04: Mr. Hagan turned to Mr. Linden to explain the annual program instituted by Mr. Linden. If cracks are sealed before winter, then ice cannot get into them to deteriorate the road further. This year Mr. Lesiecki recommended another material which will go further into the crack and hopefully will not be scraped away by snowplows. This will be on the Consent Agenda.
Ordinances No. 115-04 and 116-04: Mr. Potterfield explained that these parcels are north of the Service Garage and have been discussed at length at Council and committee meetings. These ordinances would divide the parcel into two and then rezone one half. They will be referred to the Planning Commission for comment and review.
Ordinance No. 117-04: Mr. Gollinger indicated that this ordinance will authorize design work on a replacement for the defunct screw pump at the WWTP. There are currently two pumps, one of which is out of order and the other in need of remedies. The idea is to replace it with something more current and reliable. This is just the first phase which has been approved by the management board at the WWTP. Issue 2 funds will be requested. This will be on Consent Agenda.
Ordinance No. 118-04: This is the final payment for work done by Chagrin Valley on the I-90 sound barriers. This has been reviewed by the Law Director. This will be on the Consent Agenda.
Ordinance No. 119-04: This ordinance authorizes expenditures for playground equipment for Linden Park. The Mayor announced that the Administration has no position, and that the decision should be made by Council. Next time, depending on legal ramifications, he would prefer to go to bid with an amount, asking what equipment can be provided for that amount. These bids were difficult to evaluate. The only bidder which met the specifications was 20% higher than the other bids.
Mr. Patterson came forward to add more information. He agreed that comparing bids was very difficult because all the equipment is of different heights with different play features. This equipment would require $75,000 from the Cox fund. Linden Park is the largest, most active park, where equipment was last replaced in 1988. His memo outlines the bids received. He met with representatives and went through catalogs to formulate specifications. His aim was as much play value as possible with higher decks and slides. This company was the only one which met the specifications.
Mrs. Bartolozzi asked if this replacement is part of a regular program. Mr. Patterson said that it is, that the City tries to replace some equipment every year so that too much does not have to be done in one year. Last year Elmwood Park was replace and Martin Park the year before. Mrs. Bartolozzi asked about Tri-City Park. Mr. Patterson responded that it was replaced 6 or 7 years ago. All equipment is given an annual inspection, and Tri-City Park is in good condition. The next park to be refurbished is City Hall Park.
Mayor Knoble asked what is done with the old equipment. Mr. Patterson said that because of liability issues, it is demolished.
Mrs. Bobst asked if the components are made of recycled materials. Mr. Patterson said that they were not. This will be placed on the Consent Agenda.
Ordinance No. 120-04: This ordinance was considered and passed during the Special Meeting.
COMMUNICATIONS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Mr. Frost announced that July 30 will be Fire Safety Awareness Day to be held at the Senior Center. There will be many activities from 10:30 a.m. to l:00 p.m. The event will be held regardless of the weather. It is free and open to the public.
Mrs. Bobst discussed the Rocky River Community Coalition for Youth Asset Development which was established by the Community Challenge. Representatives of community organizations such as the PTA, Recreation Department, School Board and representatives of business and community among others work together to create awareness of developmental assets to assist in the success of youth. Information on the program will be distributed to Council.
The Law Director represented the City at a hearing before the Liquor Control Commission on the matter of Rodos, Inc. The City had protested the granting of a license when the officers of the corporation were not listed. After hearing Mr. Matty's arguments, the Commission reversed its decision and denied the license.
A letter has been received from the Division of Liquor Control notifying the City that in the month of October, all liquor permits will expire and the City has the right to object to any renewal. The Police Department will provide information before October 1.
At Mr. Hurtuk's suggestion, the Engineer, Mr. Lesiecki, has provided project summaries that detail progress as projects are completed. Mr. Frost indicated that he found the summaries very helpful.
The Beautification Committee will meet tomorrow evening at 7:00 p.m. in the Don Umerley Civic Center. Among agenda items are the presentation of Beautification Awards, an update on the tree inventory, Hilliard Road landscaping and signage.
Last week a copy of the OML containing information on the local government funding issue was distributed. President Bobst encouraged Council members to pay particular attention to information on upcoming meetings in which the County will meet with cities to share information on the policy's impact with state legislators.
Mrs. Bobst then quickly reviewed items of correspondence which will be entered into the record next week at the Legislative meeting.
On July 29 to August 1, the International Children's Games will come to Cleveland with the support of Sun Newspapers. One Rocky River athlete, Ian Stark, will participate in water polo.
A meeting will be held on July 20 at 5 p.m. on the street in front of 19334 Frazier Drive for those affected by drainage issues.
MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS: NONE
As there was no further business by members of Council, the meeting was adjourned at
9:42 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 meeting of the Committee-of-the-Whole of July 19, 2004. These minutes may be revised or amended at the next Legislative Meeting.
DRAFT
CITY OF ROCKY RIVER
JULY 19, 2004
Environmental Committee
The meeting of the Environmental Committee was called to order by the Chairman, Mr. Gollinger, at 7:05 p.m. in the David J. Cook Council Chambers.
Environmental Committee Members Present: Mr. Gollinger, Mrs. Bartolozzi, Mr. Hagan,
Mr. Potterfield
Council member present: Mrs. Bobst
Administration: Mr. Linden, Mr. Winterich
Law Director: Not required or requested
Mr. Gollinger introduced Mr. Patrick Holland, the Executive Director of the Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District who had been invited to update Council on activities in the metropolitan area and an overview of countywide recycling and waste disposal.
Using a slide presentation, Mr. Holland began by explaining that a Recycling Report was begun three years ago in response to a communication from the EPA. Under the state plan and a solid waste management plan, the County is required to achieve a certain diversion level, or recycling level. Both residential and commercial recycling are tracked, plus industrial waste. The county-wide combined residential and commercial goal is 25% and was set by the EPA. The County was coming close to falling below that required level. It was felt that there was more recycling being done that was not tracked, so an annual report was established. Improvement was recorded between the first report year, 2002 and 2003. Mr. Holland explained that much of that increase was probably due to improved reporting.
Some interesting statistics:
Some improvement was attributed to increased awareness and district-sponsored retrieval programs such as the computer round-up, the scrap tire round-up and hazardous waste round-up among others. Right now the district is working on the phone book round-up. Another major factor is the expansion of the Abitibi Paper Retriever Program which provides funds for used mixed papers.
In our area, 34 communities contract for waste removal, 24, (including Rocky River), collect their own trash and 1 community (Hunting Valley) requires residents to subscribe individually with a trash collection company. Trash is then taken directly to a landfill or to a transfer station where it is loaded in large trucks for transport to a more distant landfill. Since there are very few landfills left in Cuyahoga County, the trend is toward transfer stations. From this area, the bulk of trash (57%) is transported to a landfill operated by Republic in Stark County which serves Stark/ Tuscarawas/Wayne Counties. Next in size is the Lorain facility operated by BFI which takes 27%. Mr. Holland noted that it is fortunate for our area that there is competition among 3 large companies which provides a better rate. BFI has 38% of the area business, Republic 35% and WMI 21%. To export trash to another County is expensive; in addition to the transportation costs, the landfills charge $2-$4 per ton. This amounted to $4.5 million last year.
Mr. Holland then opened the forum to questions from Council and the audience. Some audience questions:
"What happens to recycled materials?" First they are separated. Then companies in the commodity business sell them to domestic and foreign markets. Over the last two years, there have been changes, as China has begun industrial expansion and is in need of raw materials. Prices are determined by supply and demand. The value of fiber or recycled paper has risen and is now a strong market. Aluminum cans are recycled as new cans within 30 days.
"Are we still recycling only 1 and 2?" Mr. Holland confirmed that is the case. He said that it begins with the manufacturer and some issues are rigidity and strength.
"What about phone books?" These are presently being collected. About 400 tons or 450,000 books are collected annually of 2.5 million new directories distributed.
"Are newspapers still in demand?" Yes, the demand is very great. Abitibi is the largest manufacturer of newsprint in the world. Eight to ten years ago, plants were retooled to use only recycled materials and very little virgin pulp. This created the enormous demand.
"Are letters sent to residents to make them aware of recycling?" Yes-also residents should read the quarterly newsletter which contains a lot of information.
"What about Rocky River" from Mr. Gollinger. Mr. Holland noted that this community has exceeded the County goal by recycling 31%. Improvements can be attributed to continuing education of the public. The blue bag program has been very successful. Mr. Gollinger felt that more residents are using mulching mowers which would account for a slight decrease in the recycling of yard waste.
Mr. Holland reminded everyone of the Computer Round-up on September 4 and the Household Hazardous Waste Round-up on November 4, 5 and 6.
Mr. Gollinger added that recycling aluminum cans at the Fire Station's convenient location means funds for the children's burn unit at Metro.
Moved by Mr. Gollinger, seconded by Mrs. Bartolozzi, that the meeting of the Environmental Committee be adjourned.
Vote: Gollinger - aye Bartolozzi - aye Hagan - aye Potterfield - aye
4 ayes 0 nays PASSED
The meeting was adjourned at 7:52 p.m.
_______________________________ _______________________________
Frank B. Gollinger, Chairman Misao Kurokawa
Environmental Committee Clerk of Council
Please note: This is a draft copy of the minutes of the Environmental Committee of July 19, 2004. These minutes may be amended or revised at the next Legislative Meeting.
DRAFT
CITY OF ROCKY RIVER
JULY 19, 2004
Planning, Zoning and Economic Development Committee
The meeting of the Planning, Zoning and Economic Development Committee was called to order by the Chairman, Mr. Potterfield, at 7:52 p.m. in the David J. Cook Council Chambers.
Planning, Zoning and Economic Development Committee Members Present:
Mr. Potterfield, Mrs. Bartolozzi, Mr. Gollinger, Mr. Hurtuk
Council members present: Mrs. Bobst, Mr. Frost, Mr. Hagan
Administration: Mayor Knoble, Mr. Linden, Mr. Thomas, Mr. Koran, Mr. Patterson
Law Director: Not required or requested.
Mr. Potterfield introduced the topic, Drive-throughs. He explained that at the last meeting of the Planning, Zoning and Economic Development Committee, Mr. Gollinger had not been present, and it was decided to defer further discussion until his comments could be heard.
Mr. Gollinger commented that he had had comments from residents whose properties abut those which might be used for drive-through businesses, and he had heard their concerns.
He stated his position, that he had no inclination to change the present ordinances. If, however, the wisdom is to move forward, then he feels that Mr. Potterfield's recommendations as to distance make sense. The City has had a drive-through law in place for many years and it has worked well so he sees no reason to change.
Mr. Hurtuk mentioned that arguments were heard last week. He saw a lack of consistency in drive-throughs and felt that the proposed ordinances are a step in the right direction. He emphasized once more that in his opinion, this has nothing to do with Walgreens.
There was no further discussion from Council, and following a motion by Mr. Potterfield, second by Mrs. Bartolozzi, and unanimous affirmative vote, the meeting was adjourned at 7:58 p.m.
_______________________________ _______________________________
Earl W. Potterfield, Chairman Misao Kurokawa
Planning, Zoning and Economic Clerk of Council
Development Committee
Please note: This is a draft copy of the minute of the Planning, Zoning and Economic Development Committee.
DRAFT
CITY OF ROCKY RIVER
JULY 19, 2004
The Special Meeting of Council was called to order by Mrs. Bobst, President of Council at 8:00 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. Patterson, Mr. Koran
Assistant Law Director: Mr. Hotz
Press: Mrs. McKenzie, Mr. White
The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.
AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION: NONE
ORDINANCE NO. 120-04 BY BRIAN A. HURTUK
AN ORDINANCE DETERMINING TO PROCEED WITH THE SUBMISSION OF THE QUESTION OF THE ISSUANCE OF CIVIC CENTER IMPROVEMENT BONDS IN THE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF $8,400,000 TO THE ELECTORS OF THE CITY OF ROCKY RIVER, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY
1ST READING
Moved by Mr. Hurtuk, seconded by Mrs. Bartolozzi, that the rule requiring that Ordinance No.120-04 be read on three separate days be suspended, and that Ordinance No. 120-04 be placed upon its passage:
Discussion: Mr. Hurtuk announced that if this issue is to go to the ballot, the ordinance will have to be sent to the Board of Elections by mid-August.
Vote: Gollinger - aye Potterfield - aye Frost - aye
Hurtuk - aye Bartolozzi - aye Hagan - aye Bobst - aye
7 ayes 0 nays PASSED
Moved by Mr. Hurtuk, seconded by Mrs. Bartolozzi, that Ordinance No.120-04 be passed as read:
Discussion: Mr. Hurtuk turned to Director Thomas to explain the process. Mr. Thomas reported that following passage of last week's ordinance, he had sent certified copies to the County Auditor who estimated that service for 20 years would be approximately one mill. Mr. Hurtuk added that for every $100,000 of valuation, this would mean an annual cost of an additional $35 for the homeowner if this ballot issue passes. Mrs. Bobst noted that the ballot language was not included; that is done by the Board of Elections.
Mr. Gollinger mentioned that he had had two comments from residents in support of the issue and a number of calls and verbal comments from constituents opposed to the issue.
Mr. Hagan asked if the question would be only funding, not a separate issue of whether or not voters are in favor of the project. Mrs. Bobst thought that would be inherent in the question. She pointed out that if voters were in favor of the project but not a tax to support it, the City would face more dilemmas. Mr. Hurtuk felt that with variables, it could not be done.
Mr. Potterfield stated that his concerns were financial. There are issues, not going to voters, of the refinancing of present debt and capital improvements. These will total approximately $10 million, and there will be the interest to repay. Each year there are increases in materials and labor and new capital projects in the future. His concern is financial. When he has heard from his constituents, a few were positive, but most were opposed. He cannot vote for a project that he cannot endorse.
Mrs. Bobst again raised the question of the projected $577,000 of operating costs involved with this project to be offset by $600,000 of revenue stream of sales of memberships.
Mr. Gollinger observed that on the operating costs, he is fairly confident that expenditures are identified. With the estimate of revenues, however, there is a potential of a shortfall to be supported by the general fund. Last year, $500,000 went to the Recreation Department and this year, $700,000. With the opening of the new pool, he thought perhaps it would be a good time to step back and see reality. He felt it would be too great a risk and in view of other fiscal needs, he is not comfortable with this project.
Mr. Frost can see both sides of the issue, and last week, he received two letters in opposition to the expansion. Although they raised good issues, he still intends to vote for sending it to the ballot so that residents can decide.
Mrs. Bartolozzi pointed out that this issue was generated by residents and has been moving forward through the efforts of the Task Force. She does not feel that it is Council's place to refuse to send it to the ballot, but that Council is obligated to give residents the right to vote on the issue including their right to raise taxes to pay for it. The reality is that many families like the idea and some don't, but the residents will tell Council what they want and they should be given that opportunity.
Mr. Gollinger has received comments urging him to "do his job". Constituents have said that this is why they elected him and that he should take responsibility for making the decision. Mr. Potterfield agreed.
Mr. Hurtuk this week spoke with the Mayor of Middleburg Hts. whose recreation facility is in its fourth or fifth year of operation. Before construction, they had estimated that 30% to35% of their residents would participate. After four years, the participation rate is 50%. The City has a population of about 15,000. This information convinced Mr. Hurtuk that it is appropriate to proceed. Further, this is a presidential election year and should see a large voter turnout, so he would like the voters to decide.
Vote: Gollinger - nay Potterfield - nay Frost - aye
Hurtuk - aye Bartolozzi - aye Hagan - aye Bobst - aye
5 ayes 2 nays PASSED
As there was no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:22 p.m.
__________________________________ _____________________________
Pamela E. Bobst Misao Kurokawa
President of Council Clerk of Council