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06-26-2007 City Council Regular Meeting PacketCity of Grand Island Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session Packet City Council:Mayor: Margaret Hornady City Administrator: Vacant City Clerk: RaNae Edwards T u 7:00:00 PM Council Chambers - City Hall 100 East First Street Tom Brown Larry Carney John Gericke Peg Gilbert Joyce Haase Robert Meyer Mitchell Nickerson Scott Walker Fred Whitesides Jose Zapata Call to Order City of Grand Island City Council A - SUBMITTAL OF REQUESTS FOR FUTURE ITEMS Individuals who have appropriate items for City Council consideration should complete the Request for Future Agenda Items form located at the Information Booth. If the issue can be handled administratively without Council action, notification will be provided. If the item is scheduled for a meeting or study session, notification of the date will be given. B - RESERVE TIME TO SPEAK ON AGENDA ITEMS This is an opportunity for individuals wishing to provide input on any of tonight's agenda items to reserve time to speak. Please come forward, state your name and address, and the Agenda topic on which you will be speaking. MAYOR COMMUNICATION This is an opportunity for the Mayor to comment on current events, activities, and issues of interest to the community. Call to Order Pledge of Allegiance Roll Call Invocation - Reverend Alberta Danner, First Church of the Nazarene, 1022 West 6th Street This is an open meeting of the Grand Island City Council. The City of Grand Island abides by the Open Meetings Act in conducting business. A copy of the Open Meetings Act is displayed in the back of this room as required by state law. The City Council may vote to go into Closed Session on any agenda item as allowed by state law. City of Grand Island City Council Item C1 Presentation of Service Award to Councilmember Scott Walker Mayor Hornady will present a plaque of recognition for the services of Councilmember Scott Walker who will be retiring from the City Council on June 28, 2007. Councilmember Walker was elected to serve Ward 1 in 2000. Councilmember Walker was sworn into office on December 5, 2000 and was then re-elected in 2004. We congratulate Mr. Walker for his dedicated service to the citizen's of Grand Island. Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: Mayor Margaret Hornady City of Grand Island City Council Item E1 Public Hearing on Request from Mongolian Vietnamese Restaurant, LLC dba Mongolian Vietnamese Restaurant, 1816 North Webb Road for Class "A" Liquor License Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: RaNae Edwards City of Grand Island City Council Council Agenda Memo From: RaNae Edwards, City Clerk Meeting: June 26, 2007 Subject: Public Hearing on Request of Mongolian Vietnamese Restaurant, LLC dba Mongolian Vietnamese Restaurant, 1816 North Webb Road for a Class “A” Liquor License Item #’s: E-1 & I-1 Presenter(s): RaNae Edwards, City Clerk Background Section 4-2 of the Grand Island City Code declares the intent of the City Council regarding liquor licenses and the sale of alcohol. Declared Legislative Intent It is hereby declared to be the intent and purpose of the city council in adopting and administering the provisions of this chapter: (A) To express the community sentiment that the control of availability of alcoholic liquor to the public in general and to minors in particular promotes the public health, safety, and welfare; (B) To encourage temperance in the consumption of alcoholic liquor by sound and careful control and regulation of the sale and distribution thereof; and (C) To ensure that the number of retail outlets and the manner in whic h they are operated is such that they can be adequately policed by local law enforcement agencies so that the abuse of alcohol and the occurrence of alcohol-related crimes and offenses is kept to a minimum. Discussion Mongolian Vietnamese Restaurant, LLC dba Mongolian Vietnamese Restaurant, 1816 North Webb Road ha s submitted an application for a Class “A” Liquor License. A Class “A” Liquor License allows for the sale of beer on sale only inside the corporate limits of the city. Also included with the application was a request from Dua Tran Nguyen, 303 East 18th Street for a Liquor Manager Application. Due to several violations as reported by the Police Department from the background search on the applicant’s (see attached Police report) it is recommended that Council deny the Class “A” Liquor License and the Liquor Manager request. City Council action is required and forwarded to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission for issuance of all licenses. This application has been reviewed by the Clerk, Building, Fire, Health, and Police Departments. Alternatives It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand. The Council may: 1. Approve the application. 2. Forward to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission with no recommendation. 3. Forward to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission with recommendations. 4. Deny the application. Recommendation Based on the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission’s criteria for the approval of Liquor Licenses, City Administration recommends that the Council deny the application. Sample Motion Move to deny the application of Mongolian Vietnamese Restaurant, LLC dba Mongolian Vietnamese Restaurant, 1816 North Webb Road for a Class “A” Liquor License and the Liquor Manager request from Dua Tran Nguyen, 303 East 18th Street. Item E2 Public Hearing on Request from JG & J, Inc. dba Bullwinkle's Bar and Grill, 3235 South Locust Street for a Change of Location for Class "C-23100" Liquor License to 2118 North Webb Road Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: RaNae Edwards City of Grand Island City Council Council Agenda Memo From: RaNae Edwards, City Clerk Meeting: June 26, 2007 Subject: Public Hearing on Request of JG & J, Inc. dba Bullwinkle’s Bar and Grill, 3235 South Locust Street for a Change of Location for Class “C-23100” Liquor License to 2118 North Webb Road Item #’s: E-2 & I-2 Presenter(s): RaNae Edwards, City Clerk Background JG & J, Inc. dba Bullwinkle’s Bar and Grill, 3235 South Locust Street has submitted an application for a Change of Location for their Class “C-23100” Liquor License to 2118 North Webb Road. Discussion City Council action is required and forwarded to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission for issuance of all licenses. This application has been reviewed by the Clerk, Building, Fire, Health, and Police Departments. Attached is the Police Department’s background investigation and recommendation. Alternatives It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand. The Council may: 1. Approve the application. 2. Forward to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission with no recommendation. 3. Forward to the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission with recommendations. 4. Deny the application. Recommendation Based on the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission’s criteria for the approval of Liquor Licenses, City Administration recommends that the Council approve the application. Sample Motion Move to approve the application for a change of location requested by JG & J, Inc. dba Bullwinkle’s Bar and Grill from 3235 South Locust Street to 2118 North Webb Road for the Class “C-23100” Liquor License contingent upon final inspections. Item E3 Public Hearing Concerning Acquisition of Utility Easement - Southeast Corner of the New HY-VEE Store Location at Webb Road and Old Potash Highway Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: Gary R. Mader City of Grand Island City Council Council Agenda Memo From: Robert H. Smith, Asst. Utilities Director Meeting: June 26, 2007 Subject: Acquisition of Utility Easement – Southeast Corner of the New HY-VEE Store at Webb Road and Old Potash Highway Item #’s: E-3 & G-6 Presenter(s): Gary R. Mader, Utilities Director Background Nebraska State Law requires that acquisition of property must be approved by City Council. The Utilities Department needs to acquire an easement relative to the property of HY-VEE, Inc., located at the southeast corner of the new store located at Webb Road and Old Potash Highway, in the City of Grand Island, Hall County, in order to have access to install, upgrade, maintain, and repair power appurtenances, including lines and transformers. Discussion This easement will be used to place underground electrical cable and a pad-mounted transformer to serve the new HY-VEE store. Alternatives It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand. The Council may: 1. Make a motion to approve 2. Refer the issue to a Committee 3. Postpone the issue to future date 4. Take no action on the issue Recommendation City Administration recommends that the Council approve the resolution for the acquisition of the easement for one dollar ($1.00). Sample Motion Motion to approve acquisition of the Utility Easement. Item E4 Public Hearing Concerning Acquisition of Utility Easement - 1313 Johnstown Road Across from Diamond Plastics - Hulse Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: Gary R. Mader City of Grand Island City Council Council Agenda Memo From: Robert H. Smith, Asst. Utilities Director Meeting: June 26, 2007 Subject: Acquisition of Utility Easement – 1313 Johnstown Road, across from Diamond Plastics - Hulse Item #’s: E-4 & G-7 Presenter(s): Gary R. Mader, Utilities Director Background Nebraska State Law requires that acquisition of property must be approved by City Council. The Utilities Department needs to acquire an easement relative to the property of Kevin and Tammie Hulse, located at 1313 Johnstown Road, across from Diamond Plastics, in the City of Grand Island, Hall County, in order to have access to install, upgrade, maintain, and repair power appurtenances, including lines and transformers. Discussion This easement will be used to locate primary underground electrical cable and a three- phase pad-mounted transformer. This will provide electric service to a new building at this address. Alternatives It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand. The Council may: 1. Make a motion to approve 2. Refer the issue to a Committee 3. Postpone the issue to future date 4. Take no action on the issue Recommendation City Administration recommends that the Council approve the resolution for the acquisition of the easement for one dollar ($1.00). Sample Motion Motion to approve acquisition of the Utility Easement. Item E5 Public Hearing on Amendment to Chapter 36 of the Grand Island City Code Relative to Accessory Building and Uses Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: Chad Nabity City of Grand Island City Council Council Agenda Memo From: Regional Planning Commission Meeting: June 26, 2007 Subject: Amendment to Chapter 36 of the Grand Island City Code (C-19-2007GI) Item #’s: E-5 & F-3 Presenter(s): Chad Nabity AICP, Regional Planning Director Background Portable Storage Units have been used across the United States for the past several years. They inevitably lead to issues with zoning as people leave them on their property too long and the neighbors get annoyed. Omaha dealt with issues of Portable Storage Units last fall. These units are designed to be delivered to a property where the property owner can load them with items; call the company back and have their items hauled off in the container to a warehouse for storage. The storage units can also be used by people moving from one place to another. A person can fill their unit at their old house and have it delivered to their new house. During remodeling/recarpeting projects these can be used to store furniture and other things on site while the work is being done. In general, they do not seem to have caused problems in other communities except when they take up permanent or semi-permanent residence. The attached regulations are designed to establish a set of operating parameters for portable storage units. Discussion The Planning Commission held a hearing on these proposed changes at their meeting on June 6, 2007 No members of the public commented at the public hearing. Planning commission members discussed the proposed changes and questioned staff about the length of the units that would be allowed and the amount of time that the portable storage units could remain on site. Staff replied that the length is based on the standard size for the PODS brand units. Chairman O’Neill suggested that 20 feet might be a more appropriate length as that is a standard size for a shipping container and would not limit this business to one company. Staff stated that Omaha allows the units to stay for 30 days but that many communities limit the time to 15 days and that is the number that staff is suggesting as a starting point. Planning commission members discussed the possibility of lengthening that time frame to 21 days and staff agreed that the change would be unlikely to create any issues. Following the discussion the Planning Commission concluded that the allowable length of the container should be changed from sixteen (16) feet to twenty (20) feet and the allowed length of time the unit may be left at a residence should be changed from fifteen (15) days to twenty-one (21) days. Alternatives It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand. The Council may: 1. Move to approve 2. Refer the issue to a Committee 3. Postpone the issue to future date 4. Take no action on the issue Recommendation A motion was made by Amick and seconded by Ruge to recommend approval of the changes to Chapter 36 Accessory Buildings and Uses as proposed with amendments to the length of the storage unit and the number of days the unit can stay on site. A roll call vote was taken and the motion passed with 10 members present (Miller, Amick, O’Neill, Ruge, Hayes, Haskins, Bredthauer, Niemann, Snodgrass, Monter) voting in favor. Sample Motion Motion to approve the amendments to the Zoning Ordinance for the City of Grand Island and its 2 mile extra-territorial jurisdiction, pertaining to the 36-27 Accessory Building and Uses to incorporate definitions and regulations for portable storage units in the City of Grand Island as recommended. §36-27.01 Portable Storage Units (As amended by the Planning Commission) For the purposes of this section the following definitions shall apply: Definitions: Portable storage unit means any container designed for the storage of personal property which is typically rented to owners or occupants of residential (single or multi-family) property for their temporary use and which is delivered and removed by truck. Site means a piece, parcel, tract, lot, or plot of land occupied or to be occupied by one or more residential buildings or uses and their accessory buildings and accessory uses which generally considered to be one unified parcel. Number, Duration and Removal Portable storage units for on-site storage. There shall be no more than one portable storage unit per site no larger than eight (8) feet wide, twenty (20) feet long and eight (8) feet high. No portable storage unit shall remain at a site in a residential district in excess of twenty-one (21) consecutive days. The building official may permit the placement of a portable storage container on a residential property for more than twenty-one (21) days, subject to the building setback requirements, provided that the property owner has a valid building permit or had demonstrated that extenuating circumstances exist to justify the extension. Extenuating circumstances shall include but not be limited to: disaster such as tornado; flood, or fire. Placement Portable storage units shall be placed only in the driveway or back yard and be set back a minimum of ten (10) feet from the front property line or five (5) feet from the rear property line. Signage Signs on any portable storage container shall not exceed two (2) in number not more than six (6) square feet each, not to exceed one (1) per side. In the event that an extension of the twenty-one (21) day time limit for placement of a portable storage container on a residential property is granted by the building official, all signs must be removed or covered. Item E6 Public Hearing on Acquisition of Utility Easement Located at 516 and 508 Sandalwood Drive, South of Faidley Avenue (Rudolf and Jeannice Plate) Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: Chad Nabity City of Grand Island City Council Council Agenda Memo From: Chad Nabity, Planning Director Meeting: June 26, 2007 Subject: Acquisition of Utility Easement – Sandalwood, South of Faidley Avenue - Plate Item #’s: E-6 & G-10 Presenter(s): Chad Nabity, Planning Director Background Nebraska State Law requires that acquisition of property must be approved by City Council. The Utilities Department needs to acquire an easement relative to the property of Rudolf F. Plate and Jeannice R. Plate Husband and Wife and Tim C. Plate as Single Person, located along the east property line of 516 and 508 Sandalwood Drive in the City of Grand Island, Hall County, in order to have access to install, upgrade, maintain, and telephone lines and switches, cable TV lines and switches and natural gas lines to the property. Discussion This easement will be used to facilitate the installation of telephone, cable TV and gas lines to the property. Alternatives It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand. The Council may: 1. Make a motion to approve 2. Refer the issue to a Committee 3. Postpone the issue to future date 4. Take no action on the issue Recommendation City Administration recommends that the Council approve the resolution for the acquisition of the easement for one dollar ($1.00). Sample Motion Motion to approve acquisition of the Utility Easement. Item E7 Public Hearing on Application for Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) 2007 Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: Steve Lamken City of Grand Island City Council Council Agenda Memo From: Captain Robert Falldorf, Police Department Meeting: June 26, 2007 Subject: Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) 2007 Item #’s: E-7 & G-11 Presenter(s): Steve Lamken, Chief of Police Background The Grand Island Police Department and Hall County Sheriff’s Department are eligible to receive Justice Assistance Grant money from the U.S. Department of Justice in 2007. This year, a combined amount for both agencies of $28,366 has been awarded and can be spent over a four year period. The Grand Island Police Department will serve as the fiscal agency on this grant. The Hall County Sheriff’s Department will be a disparate agency and will receive $7,091.50. An amount of $7,091.50 will also be provided to the Central Nebraska Drug Court for funding of that program, leaving the Grand Island Police Department with $14,183. Discussion There is a federal mandate that requires a public hearing regarding the application process and disbursement of the JAG funds. $14,183 from the grant funds awarded to the Grand Island Police Department is tentatively allocated to purchase a back-up server for the Data911 mobile data and video equipment for patrol vehicles and additional Data911 equipment. The remaining $14,183 is tentatively allocated to be split evenly between the Central Nebraska Drug Court for operational costs and the Hall County Sheriff’s Department as the disparate agency for the purchase computer equipment. Alternatives It appears that the Council has the fo llowing alternatives concerning the issue at hand. The Council may: 1. Approve the application and suggested disbursement of JAG funds. 2. Send to committee for further discussion. 3. Table for more discussion. 4. Take no action. Recommendation City Administration recommends that the Council approve the application and suggested disbursement as presented. Sample Motion Approve the application and suggested disbursement of Justice Assistance Grant funding. GMS APPLICATION NUMBER 2007-F3881-NE-DJ THE STATE OF NEBRASKA COUNTY OF HALL MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA AND COUNTY OF HALL, NEBRASKA 2007 BYRNE JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT (JAG) PROGRAM AWARD This agreement is made and entered into this _______day of June, 2007, by and between The County of Hall, acting by and through its governing body, The Hall County Board of Supervisors, hereinafter referred to as COUNTY, and the CITY of Grand Island, acting by and through its governing body, the City Council, hereinafter referred to as CITY, both of Hall County, State of Nebraska, witnesseth: WHEREAS, the City and County may apply for a direct award from the Justice Assistance Grant Program of $28,366 and the City shall act as fiscal agent for this award and file the joint application on behalf of the City and County: and WHEREAS, each governing body, in performing governmental functions or in paying for the performance of governmental functions hereunder, shall make that performance or those payments from current revenues legally available to that party: and WHEREAS, each governing body finds that the performance of this agreement is in the best interests of both parties, that the undertaking will benefit the public, and that the division of costs fairly compensates the performing party for the services or functions under this agreement: and WHEREAS, the CITY agrees to provide the COUNTY $7,091.50 from the $28,366 JAG award: and WHERAS, the CITY and COUNTY believe it to be in their best interests to reallocate the JAG funds. NOW THEREFORE, the COUNTY and City agree as follows: Section 1. CITY agrees to pay COUNTY a total of $7,091.50 of JAG funds. Page 1 of 2 GMS APPLICATION NUMBER 2007-F3881-NE-DJ Section 2. COUNTY agrees to use the $7,091.50 JAG funds by 9-30-10. Section 3. Each party to this agreement will be responsible for its own actions in providing services under this agreement and shall not be liable for any civil liability that may arise from the furnishing of the services by the other party. CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA COUNTY OF HALL, NEBRASKA _______________________________ _____________________________ Mayor Board Chairperson ATTEST: APPROVED AS TO FORM _______________________________ _____________________________ City Clerk County Clerk _______________________________ _____________________________ City Attorney Deputy County Attorney Page 2 of 2 Item F1 #9114 - Consideration of Vacation of Alley through Wasmer Detention Cell (between Koenig and Division from Broadwell to Monroe) Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: Steve Riehle City of Grand Island City Council Council Agenda Memo From: Steven P. Riehle, Public Works Director Meeting: June 26, 2007 Subject: Consideration of Vacation of Alley Located by Wasmer Detention Cell Site Item #’s: F-1 Presenter(s): Steven P. Riehle, Public Works Director Background An Ordinance is necessary for the vacation of Street and Alley Right-of-Way. The property where the old Wasmer School was between Koenig Street and Division Street, East of Broadwell to Monroe Street, was excavated for a detention cell. The material from the excavation was used as fill for the new Law Enforcement Center. The Sanitary Sewer main that was in the detention cell area was removed under Project # 2006-S-3. Discussion There are no utilities in the alley. The detention cell prevents use of the alley from motor vehicles, therefore it should be vacated. The property will be retained by the City. Alternatives It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand. The Council may: 1. Move to approve 2. Refer the issue to a Committee 3. Postpone the issue to future date 4. Take no action on the issue Recommendation City Administration recommends that the Council vacate the alley located by the Wasmer Detention Cell Site. Sample Motion Motion to vacate the alley located by the Wasmer Detention Cell Site. Approved as to Form ¤ ___________ June 21, 2007 ¤ City Attorney ORDINANCE NO. 9114 An ordinance to vacate a portion of an alley located between Koenig Street and Division Street, from Broadwell Avenue to Monroe Street in the City of Grand Island, Hall County, Nebraska; to provide for the filing of this ordinance in the office of the Register of Deeds of Hall County, Nebraska; and to provide for publication and the effective date of this ordinance. BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA: SECTION 1. That the portion of the alley located between Koenig Street and Division Street from Broadwell Avenue to Monroe Street in the City of Grand Island, Hall County, Nebraska, is hereby vacated. Such portion of the alley is more particularly described as follows: Beginning at the Southeast Corner of Lot One (1), Block Twelve (12), Charles Wasmer’s Addition; thence Southwesterly along the Southerly Line of Lots One (1), Two (2), Three (3), Four (4) and Five (5), Block Twelve (12), Charles Wasmer’s Addition to the East Line of Broadwell Avenue; thence Southeasterly on the Easterly Line of Broadwell Avenue for a distance of Sixteen Feet (16’) to the Northwest Corner of Lot Six (6), Block Twelve (12), Charles Wasmer’s Addition; thence Northeasterly on the Northerly Line of Lots Six (6), Seven (7), Eight (8), Nine (9) and Ten (10) to the West Line of Monroe Street; thence * This Space Reserved for Register of Deeds * ORDINANCE NO. 9114 (Cont.) - 2 - Northerly on the West Line of Monroe Street for a distance of Sixteen Feet (16’) to the Point of Beginning, in the City of Grand Island, Hall County, Nebraska. SECTION 2. The title to the property vacated by Section 1 of this ordinance shall revert to the owner or owners of the real estate abutting the same in proportion to the respective ownership of such real estate. SECTION 3. This ordinance is directed to be filed, with the drawing, in the office of the Register of Deeds of Hall County, Nebraska. SECTION 4. This ordinance shall be in force and take effect from and after its passage and publication, without the drawing, within fifteen days in one issue of the Grand Island Independent as provided by law. Enacted: June 26, 2007. ____________________________________ Margaret Hornady, Mayor Attest: ________________________________ RaNae Edwards, City Clerk Item F2 #9122 - Consideration of Partial Vacation of Utility Easement - Principal Financial Group Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: Gary R. Mader City of Grand Island City Council Council Agenda Memo From: Gary R. Mader, Utilities Director Meeting: June 26, 2007 Subject: Partial Vacation of Easement – Principal Financial Item #’s: F-2 Presenter(s): Gary R. Mader, Utilities Director Background The Principal Financial Group and their contractor, Lacy Construction, are in the process of expanding their Grand Island facilities. A 47’ wide easement extends across the property east to west on the south side of their existing building. The new construction, as currently designed, will extend into that easement approximately 8’. At the request of the developer, the Utilities Department has researched the feasibility of reducing the size of the easement to accommodate the facility expansion. The location of the existing utilities (electric, cable TV, and telephone) in that easement were verified and checked. A map of the easement area is attached for reference. The north 10’ of the easement adjacent to the new construction can be vacated without negatively impacting any of the utilities. Discussion The construction project is currently held up pending the vacation of part of the easement, so a building permit can be issued and construction started. If Council concurs in the reduction of the easement width, it is requested that the rules be waived so the ordinance can be approved at a single meeting, allowing construction to begin as soon as possible. Alternatives It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand. The Council may: 1. Move to approve 2. Refer the issue to a Committee 3. Postpone the issue to future date 4. Take no action on the issue Recommendation City Administration recommends that the Council approve Ordinance #9122 to vacate part of the easement on Principal Financial property. Sample Motion Motion to approve Ordinance #9122 to vacate part of the easement on Principal Financial property. Approved as to Form ¤ ___________ June 21, 2007 ¤ City Attorney ORDINANCE NO. 9122 An ordinance to vacate a portion of an existing forty-seven foot (47’) wide easement and to provide for filing this ordinance in the office of the Register of Deeds of Hall County; and to provide for publication and the effective date of this ordinance. BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA: SECTION 1. That a portion of an existing forty-seven foot (47’) wide easement in the City of Grand Island, Hall County, Nebraska, more particularly described as follows: Commencing at the most southeasterly corner of the Replat of Block 3 Continental Gardens; thence northerly along an easterly line of the said Replat of Block 3 Continental Gardens, a distance of two hundred twenty nine and eighty five hundredths (229.85) feet; thence westerly along a line of said Replat of Block 3 Continental Gardens, a distance of twenty four and fifteen hundredths (24.15) feet; thence northerly along an easterly line of said Replat of Block 3 Continental Gardens, a distance of thirty seven (37.0) feet; thence westerly, parallel with the southerly line of a platted forty seven (47.0) foot wide easement, a distance of sixteen (16.0) feet to the ACTUAL Point of Beginning; thence continuing westerly and parallel with the southerly line of said platted existing forty seven (47.0) foot wide easement, a distance of four hundred and forty nine and sixty four hundredths (449.64) feet to a point eight (8.0) foot easterly and thirty seven (37.0) feet northerly of the southeasterly corner of Lot One (1) Block 4 Continental Gardens; thence northerly parallel with a westerly line of said Replat * This Space Reserved for Register of Deeds * ORDINANCE NO. 9122 - 2 - of Block 3 Continental Gardens, a distance of ten (10.0) feet; thence easterly along the northerly line of said seven (47.0) foot wide easement, a distance of 449.64 to a point sixteen (16.0) feet west of an easterly line of said Replat of Block 3 Continental Gardens ; thence southerly parallel with an easterly line of said Replat of Block 3 Continental Gardens, a distance ten (10.0) feet to the said point of beginning, containing 0.103 acres more or less, as shown on the plat dated 611/2007, marked Exhibit “A” and attached hereto. is hereby vacated. Such easement to be vacated is shown and more particularly described on Exhibit A attached hereto. SECTION 2. This ordinance is directed to be filed in the office of the Register of Deeds of Hall County, Nebraska. SECTION 3. This ordinance shall be in force and take effect from and after its passage and publication, without the plat, within fifteen days in one issue of the Grand Island Independent as provided by law. Enacted: June 24, 2007. ____________________________________ Margaret Hornady, Mayor Attest: ________________________________ RaNae Edwards, City Clerk Item F3 #9123 - Consideration of Amendment to Chapter 36 of the Grand Island City Code Relative to Accessory Building and Uses This item relates to the aforementioned Public Hearing Item E-5. Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: Chad Nabity City of Grand Island City Council Approved as to Form ¤ ___________ June 21, 2007 ¤ City Attorney ORDINANCE NO. 9123 An ordinance to amend Chapter 36 of the Grand Island City Code; to amend Section 27 pertaining to portable storage units; to repeal Sections 36-27 as now existing, and any ordinance or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith; and to provide for publication and the effective date of this ordinance. BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA: SECTION 1. Section 36-27 of the Grand Island City Code is hereby amended to read as follows: §36-27. Accessory Building and Uses (A) Accessory buildings shall not be located within the required front yard setback of the lot and or within an easement. (B) An accessory building on a corner lot shall have a setback from all public streets equal to or greater than the requirement for the existing principal building. (C) There shall be a minimum setback of six (6) feet between accessory buildings. (D) If an accessory building has a door opening of over six (6) feet in width on a side parallel to an alley, then such accessory building shall be located not less than eight (8) feet from the lot line abutting the alley. (E) Detached accessory buildings shall not be allowed on more than 50% of the allowable lot coverage and no single detached accessory building shall exceed 35% of the allowable lot coverage (e.g. A 52.8' x 132' [6969.6 sq. ft.] lot in an R2 zoning district [35% allowable coverage] could cover 2438.31 sq. ft. of the lot with buildings. 1219.155 of that could be devoted to detached accessory buildings with no single building exceeding 853.4085 sq. ft.) (F) Detached accessory buildings on parcels or lots with less than five (5) buildable acres shall not exceed the height of the principal building by more than 25% (e.g. a house with a peak height of 16 feet could have an accessory building with a peak height of 20 feet.) (G) Detached accessory buildings on parcels or lots with five (5) or more buildable acres shall be limited by the height regulations that apply to the zoning district. (H) In Business and Manufacturing Zoning Districts: (1) Accessory buildings shall comply with all requirements of this code for the principal building. (I) In Agricultural and Residential Zoning Districts: (1) Accessory buildings shall be permitted only on the same platted lot as the principal building. (2)Accessory buildings shall comply with all requirements of this code for the principal building if located within fifteen (15) feet of the principal building or when any part of the accessory building is located in the area between the required front yard setback and a line extending from the back of the principal building to the side lot line. (3) Accessory buildings on lots with a frontage of 100 feet or more shall have a minimum side and rear yard of five feet. (4) Accessory buildings on lots with a frontage of less than 100 feet shall have a minimum side and rear yard of two feet. (J) No accessory building shall be constructed prior to beginning construction of the principal building. No accessory building shall be used unless the main building is under construction; however, in no event shall such building be used as a dwelling unless a certificate of occupancy shall have been issued for such use. (K) Regulation of accessory uses shall be as follows: ORDINANCE NO. 9123 (Cont.) - 2 - (1) Except as herein provided, no accessory building shall project beyond a required yard line along any street. (2) Any accessory building built within fifteen (15) feet of the principal structure shall meet all the requirements for the principal structure. §36.27.01 Portable Storage Units For the purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply: Definitions Portable storage unit shall mean any container designed for the storage of personal property which is typically rented to owners or occupants of residential (single or multi-family) property for their temporary use and which is delivered and removed by truck. Site shall mean a piece, parcel, tract, lot, or plot of land occupied or to be occupied by one or more residential buildings or uses and their accessory buildings and accessory uses which generally considered to be one unified parcel. §36.27.02 Number, Duration and Removal of Portable Storage Units for On-Site Storage. There shall be no more than one portable storage unit per site no larger than eight (8’) feet wide, twenty (20’) feet long and eight (8’) feet high. No portable storage unit shall remain at a site in a residential district in excess of fifteen (15) consecutive days. The building official may permit the placement of a portable storage container on a residential property for more than twenty-one (21) days, subject to the building setback requirements, provided that the property owner has a valid building permit or had demonstrated that extenuating circumstances exist to justify the extension. Extenuating circumstances shall include but not be limited to, disaster such as tornado, flood or fire. §36.27.03 Placement Portable storage units shall be placed only in the driveway or back yard and be set back a minimum of ten (10’) feet from the front property line or five (5’) feet from the rear property line. §36.27.04 Signage Signs on any portable storage container shall not exceed two (2) in number not more than six (6’) square feet each, not to exceed one (1) per side. In the event that an extension of the twenty-one (21) day time limit for placement of a portable storage container on a residential property is granted by the building official, all signs must be removed or covered. §36.27.05 Placard All portable storage containers must include a “placard” not to exceed one (1) square foot in area which is clearly visible from the right-of-way which includes the container identification number, date of its placement on the property, date that removal will be required, and a local or toll free telephone number of the company. SECTION 2. Section 36-27 as now existing, and any ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith be, and hereby are, repealed. SECTION 3. The validity of any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this ordinance shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase thereof. ORDINANCE NO. 9123 (Cont.) - 3 - SECTION 4. That this ordinance shall be in force and take effect from and after its passage and publication, within fifteen days in one issue of the Grand Island Independent as provided by law. Enacted: June 26, 2007. ____________________________________ Margaret Hornady, Mayor Attest: ________________________________ RaNae Edwards, City Clerk Item F4 #9124 - Consideration of Vacation of a Portion of Midaro Drive (East of 610 Midaro Drive) Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: Steve Riehle, City Engineer/Public Works Director City of Grand Island City Council Council Agenda Memo From: Steven P. Riehle, Public Works Director Meeting: June 26, 2007 Subject: Consideration of Vacation of a Portion of Midaro Drive; East of 610 Midaro Drive in Firethorne Subdivision Item #’s: F-4 Presenter(s): Steven P. Riehle, City Engineer/Public Works Director Background Council action is required for vacation of a public street through the passing of an ordinance. The abutting property owners have requested that the eastern approximately 250 feet of Midaro Drive be vacated. Discussion The development plan for the property called for Midaro Drive to circle the lake. The lake is being pumped differently then originally planned. The pumping plan is leaving sufficient room for a road to circle the lake in a different location. The above section of Midaro Drive is no longer needed. A cul-de-sac can be built and the above piece of Midaro Drive can be vacated. The north half of the vacated street right-of-way will revert to the property owner to the north and the south half will revert to the property owner to the south. Alternatives It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand. The Council may: 1. Move to approve 2. Refer the issue to a Committee 3. Postpone the issue to future date 4. Take no action on the issue Recommendation City Administration recommends that the Council approve the vacation of a portion of Midaro Drive; East of 610 Midaro Drive in Firethorne Subdivision. Sample Motion Motion to approve the vacation of a portion of Midaro Drive; East of 610 Midaro Drive in Firethorne Subdivision. Future Culdesac Street ROW to be considered for vacation Midaro Drive Future Culdesac Street ROW to be considered for vacation Midaro Drive Approved as to Form ¤ ___________ June 21, 2007 ¤ City Attorney ORDINANCE NO. 9124 An ordinance to vacate a portion of an existing right of way and to provide for filing this ordinance in the office of the Register of Deeds of Hall County; and to provide for publication and the effective date of this ordinance. BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA: SECTION 1. That a portion of an existing right of way of Midaro Drive, more particularly described as follows: Beginning at the Southeast Corner of Lot Four (4), Firethorne Estates Subdivision, thence South Line on a Prolongation of the East Line of Lot Four (4) Firethorne Estates Subdivision for a distance of Sixty Feet (60’) to the Southeast Corner of Firethorne Estates Subdivision; thence Westerly on the South Line of Firethorne Estates Subdivision for a distance of Two Hundred Forty and Fifty One Hundredths Feet (240.50’); thence Northwesterly on an arc with a radius of Seventy Feet (70’) to a point on the South Line of Lot Four (4), Firethorne Estate Subdivision; thence East on the South Line of Lot Four (4), Firethorn Estates Subdivision, for a distance of Two Hundred Sixty One and Fifty Two Hundredths Feet (261.52’), to the Point of Beginning is hereby vacated. Such right-of-way to be vacated is shown and more particularly described on Exhibit A attached hereto. * This Space Reserved for Register of Deeds * ORDINANCE NO. 9124 - 2 - SECTION 2. The title to the property vacated by Section 1 of this Ordinance shall revert to the City as owner of the real estate abutting the alley. SECTION 3. This ordinance is directed to be filed in the office of the Register of Deeds of Hall County, Nebraska. SECTION 4. This ordinance shall be in force and take effect from and after its passage and publication, without the plat, within fifteen days in one issue of the Grand Island Independent as provided by law. Enacted: June 26, 2007. ____________________________________ Margaret Hornady, Mayor Attest: ________________________________ RaNae Edwards, City Clerk Item G1 Receipt of Official Document - Pawnbroker Official Bond for Stewart's Pawn Shop, 803 West 4th Street Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: RaNae Edwards City of Grand Island City Council Council Agenda Memo From: RaNae Edwards, City Clerk Meeting: June 26, 2007 Subject: Approving Renewal of Pawnbroker Official Bond Item #’s: G-1 Presenter(s): RaNae Edwards, City Clerk Background Chapter 25 of the Grand Island City Code requires that all persons who shall engage in the business of pawnbroker are required to make application to the Mayor and City Council. Along with the application and fee, a bond is required which is to be approved by the Mayor and City Council. Each license expires on April 30th of each year and must be renewed prior to that date. Discussion Stewart’s Pawn Shop, 803 West 4th Street has submitted their application, fee, and bond for renewal of their pawnbroker’s license. (See attached) Alternatives It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand. The Council may: 1. Move to approve the renewals 2. Refer the issue to a Committee 3. Postpone the issue to future date 4. Take no action on the issue Recommendation City Administratio n recommends that the Council approve the application and bond for renewal of pawnbroker’s license. Sample Motion Move to approve the renewal application and bond for Stewart’s Pawn Shop, 803 West 4th Street. Item G2 Approving Minutes of June 12, 2007 City Council Regular Meeting Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: RaNae Edwards City of Grand Island City Council OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA MINUTES OF CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING June 12, 2007 Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska was conducted in the Council Chambers of City Hall, 100 East First Street, on June 12, 2007. Notice of the meeting was given in The Grand Island Independent on June 6, 2007. Mayor Margaret Hornady called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. The following City Council members were present: Councilmember’s Carney, Walker, Nickerson, Gericke, Brown, Gilbert, Whitesides, Haase, and Meyer. Councilmember Zapata was absent. The following City Officials were present: City Clerk RaNae Edwards, City Attorney Dale Shotkoski, Finance Director David Springer, and Public Works Director Steve Riehle. INVOCATION was given by Mayor Hornady followed by the PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE. MAYOR COMMUNICATION: Mayor Hornady acknowledged Community Youth Council member Derrick Morrison. Mentioned was the Ethnic Festiva l to be held downtown this week- end, June 15-17, 2007. PUBLIC HEARINGS: Public Hearing on Acquisition of Utility Easement Located Along the Right-of-Way Line of State Street from the Outfall Ditch to 1/4 Mile West (Shafer Commercial Properties, LLC). Gary Mader, Utilities Director reported that acquisition of a utility easement located along the right-of- way line of State Street from the Outfall Ditch to 1/4 mile west was needed to have access to install, upgrade, maintain, and repair power appurtenances, including lines and transformers. This easement would be used to place three phase underground electrical feeder cable along the south side of State Street to provide electrical power and backup to Summerfield Estates and Prairie Acres Subdivisions. No public testimony was heard. Public Hearing on Acquisition of Utility Easement Located Along the South Right-of-Way line of State Street, East of North Road (Little B’s Corporation). ). Gary Mader, Utilities Director reported that acquisition of a utility easement located along the south right-of-way line of State Street, east of North Road was needed to have access to install, upgrade, maintain, and repair power appurtenances, including lines and transformers. This easement would be used to place three phase underground electrical feeder cable along the south side of State Street to provide electrical power and backup to Summerfield Estates and Prairie Acres Subdivisions. No public testimony was heard. ORDINANCES: Councilmember Whitesides moved “that the statutory rules requiring ordinances to be read by title on three different days be suspended and that ordinance numbered: Page 2, City Council Regular Meeting, June 12, 2007 #9120 – Consideration of Creation Sanitary Sewer District No. 525; lots 8 & 9 of Westwood Park Subdivision #9121 – Consideration of Amendment to Salary Ordinance be considered for passage on the same day upon reading by number only and that the City Clerk be permitted to call out the number of these ordinances on first reading and then upon final passage and call for a roll call vote on each reading and then upon final passage.” Councilmember Gilbert second the motion. Upon roll call vote, all voted aye. Motion adopted. Steve Riehle, Public Works Director reported Ordinance #9120 was requested by petition from Richard Sok, 832 Sweetwood Drive to create a sanitary sewer district. Brenda Sutherland, Human Resources Director reported Ordinance #9121 reflected the Commission of Industrial Relations order regarding the IAFF union salaries. Motion by Nickerson, second by Walker to approve Ordinances #9120 and #9121. City Clerk: Ordinances #9120 #9121 on first reading. All those in favor of the passage of these ordinances on first reading, answer roll call vote. Upon roll call vote, Councilmember’s Carney, Walker, Nickerson, Gericke, Brown, Gilbert, and Whitesides voted aye. Councilmember’s Meyer and Haase voted no. Motion adopted. City Clerk: Ordinances #9120 #9121 on final passage. All those in favor of the passage of these ordinances on final passage, answer roll call vote. Upon roll call vote, Councilmember’s Carney, Walker, Nickerson, Gericke, Brown, Gilbert, and Whitesides voted aye. Councilmember’s Meyer and Haase voted no. Motion adopted. Mayor Hornady: By reason of the roll call votes on first reading and then upon final passage, Ordinances #9120 and #1921 are declared to be lawfully adopted upon publication as required by law. CONSENT AGENDA: Motion by Gilbert, second by Brown to approve the Consent Agenda. Upon roll call vote, all voted aye. Motion adopted. Approving Minutes of May 22, 2007 City Council Regular Meeting. Approving Appointment s of Councilmember Tom Brown to the Humane Society Board; Councilmember Jose Zapata to the Business Improvement District #5 Board and the Multicultural Coalition Board; and Councilmember Larry Carney to the Problem Resolution Team, Community Development Advisory Board and the Transportation Committee. Approving Request of Misty Koperski, 713 West 6th Street for Liquor Manager Designation for Coffin’s Corner, 519 North Eddy Street and Snac Shac, 715 South Locust Street. #2007-131 – Approving Final Plat and Subdivision Agreement for Westgate Ninth Subdivision. It was noted that Copperton, LLC, owners had submitted the final plat for Westgate Ninth Subdivision located on a tract of land comp rising of Lot 12, Westgate Subdivision consisting of approximately 8.912 acres for the purpose of creating 9 lots. Page 3, City Council Regular Meeting, June 12, 2007 #2007-132 – Approving Bid Award for Sanitary Sewer District No. 336 Replacement, Between 18th & 19th Street, West of Plum Street with The Diamond Engineering Company of Grand Island, Nebraska in an Amount of $19,605.00. #2007-133 – Approving Program Agreement with the Nebraska Department of Roads for South Locust Street, Paving of North Bound Lanes. It was noted that total cost of the Locust Street Interchange project was estimated to be $4,200,000 with 80% to be paid with federal funds. The City’s share was 20% with actual eligible costs of approximately $840,000. #2007-134 – Approving Modified Subdivision Agreement for Sterling Estates Subdivision. #2007-135 – Approving Change Order No. 12 with Chief Construction of Grand Island, Nebraska for Law Enforcement Center in an Amount of $12,027.22. #2007-136 – Approving Amendment to Personnel Rules to Include Family Military Leave. #2007-137 – Approving Acquisition of Utility Easement Located Along the Right-of-Way Line of State Street from the Outfall Ditch to 1/4 Mile West (Shafer Commercial Properties, LLC). #2007-138 – Approving Acquisition of Utility Easement Located Along the South Right-of-Way Line of State Street, East of North Road (Little B’s Corporation). #2007-139 – Approving Bid Award for Vehicle Exhaust Removal System with Air Cleaning Tech, Inc. of Bonner Springs, Kansas in an Amount of $47,550.00. #2007-141 – Approving Increasing Size of Site for the Fire and Rescue and Law Enforcement Memorial at Fire Station No. 1. #2007-142 – Approving Authorized Provider Agreement with the Heartland Chapter of the American Red Cross. REQUESTS AND REFERRALS : Review of 2007/2008 Fee Schedules, Outside Agencies and Full Time Equivalent’s (FTE’s). Full Time Equivalent’s (FTE’s) David Springer, Finance Director reported a great deal of effort had been expended in preparation of the City budget so far. The Department Director’s had submitted their budgets in detail for review by City Administration and the Mayor. Mentioned were the continued increases in operating expenses and payment for capital projects. Motion was made by Whitesides, second by Gilbert to approve the FTE request. Discussion was held regarding the increase of FTE’s and what that would do the to tax rate. Steve Fosselman, Library Director explained the need for 2 FTE’s and mentioned the cost of $81,828 included benefit’s. Page 4, City Council Regular Meeting, June 12, 2007 Motion was made by Whitesides, second by Gericke to refer the FTE request to a Study Session for further discussion. Upon roll call vote, all voted aye. Motion adopted. Outside Agencies: Mayor Hornady explained that City Administration was submitting the same amount for outside agencies as was funded last year. Mentioned was that the Central Nebraska Ethnic Festival request of $900 had been in the budget under miscellaneous and was moved to outside agencies. Motion was made by Whitesides to approve the Outside Agency funding as submitted. Motion died due to lack of a second. Motion was made by Meyer, second by Walker to move the Outside Agency funding request to a Study Session for further discussion. Upon roll call vote, all voted aye. Motion adopted. 2007/2008 Fee Schedule: Motion was made by Whitesides, second by Walker to approve the 2007/2008 Fee Schedule as presented. Discussion was held on the paramedic and ambulance rate increases. Jim Rowell, Fire Chief stated the new rates were comparable to other cities. Motion was made by Gericke, second by Meyer to refer the 2007/2008 Fee Schedule request to a Study Session for further discussion. Upon roll call vote, Councilmember’s Gericke and Meyer voted aye. Councilmember’s Carney, Walker, Nickerson, Brown, Gilbert, Whitesides, and Haase vote no. Motion failed. Upon roll call vote of the original motion to approve the 2007/2008 Fee Schedule, all voted aye. Motion adopted. PAYMENT OF CLAIMS: Motion by Brown, second by Haase to approve the Claims for the period of May 23, 2007 through June 12, 2007, for a total amount of $5,822,699.04. Motion adopted unanimously. Motion by Brown, second by Haase to approve the following Claim for the Library Expansion for the period of May 23, 2007 through June 12, 2007: #72 $153,114.50 #73 840.00 Motion adopted unanimously. SPECIAL ITEMS: Motion by Meyer, second by Whitesides to adjourn to executive session at 7:55 p.m. for the purpose of discussion concerning Northwestern Gas Rate Negotiations. Upon roll call vote, all voted aye. Motion adopted. Page 5, City Council Regular Meeting, June 12, 2007 RETURN TO REGULAR SESSION: Motion by Whitesides, second by Gilbert to return to regular session at 8:20 p.m. Upon roll call vote, all voted aye. Motion adopted. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 8:20 p.m. RaNae Edwards City Clerk Item G3 Approving Minutes of June 19, 2007 City Council Study Session Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: RaNae Edwards City of Grand Island City Council OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA MINUTES OF CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION June 19, 2007 Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a Study Session of the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska was conducted in the Community Meeting Room of City Hall, 100 East First Street, on June 19, 2007. Notice of the meeting was given in the Grand Island Independent on June 15, 2007. Mayor Margaret Hornady called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. The following members were present: Councilmember’s Carney, Walker, Gericke, Brown, Gilbert, Whitesides, Haase, and Meyer. Councilmember Nickerson and Zapata were absent. The following City Officials were present: City Clerk RaNae Edwards, City Attorney Dale Shotkoski, Public Works Director Steve Riehle, and Finance Director David Springer. INVOCATION was given by Pastor Charles Greggory, First Baptist Church, 811 West 10th Street followed by the PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE. Councilmember Zapata present at 7:05 p.m. MAYOR COMMUNICATION: Mayor Hornady mentioned that Railroad Days would be held downtown on June 23-24, 2007 in conjunction with the Hall County 150th Celebration. Also mentioned was the Celebration of Progress Event at the Heartland Public Shooting Park this Saturday, June 23, 2007. Review of 2007/2008 Budget Process. David Springer, Finance Director briefed the Council on the Budget Preparation Schedule for 2007/2008. Reviewed was what had been done and what needed to be done to complete the 2007/2008 budget. Mentioned were the dates of upcoming meetings and public hearings that needed to be held before the budget could be finalized. Mr. Springer presented a PowerPoint updating the council on the various funds within the budget. Review of 2007/2008 Outside Agencies Funding Requests: David Springer, Finance Director reported that at the last regular City Council meeting of June 12, 2007 council requested guidelines for outside funding. Mr. Springer stated City Attorney Dale Shotkoski and Assistant City Attorney Wes Nespor had spent time formulating criteria for funding the outside agencies. Wes Nespor, Assistant City Attorney reported on the findings as set out by the Nebraska Constitution. (Attached were the suggested guidelines presented.) Discussion was held regarding those agencies with working relationships with City departments. Grants and matching funds were discussed. Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) and Senior Citizens Industries required matching funds otherwise they would not be able to function. Page 2, City Council Study Session, June 19, 2007 Councilmember Gilbert commented that tax dollars should not be funding these agencies nor could the city afford to fund these except for the Convention and Visitors Bureau. Councilmember Zapata suggested not eliminating them completely but gradually lowering the funds they receive from the city. Councilmember Gericke stated those organizations serving a city function would be more cost effective than if the city had to perform those services. Lewis Kent, 624 Meves asked the council to hold the line on outside funding and complimented the Finance Department on their presentation. John Meister, 1417 Piper Street representing the Fishing Derby gave a brief background and requested the council fund their $2,000 request. Dianna Meyer representing the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA ) explained their request of $5,000. Shelly Garlic, 105 Mulberry, Alda, Nebraska representing the Crisis Center explained the services provided by the Crisis Center and those services that would be cut or reduced if not funded in the amount of $12,000. Marvin Anderson representing Hope Harbor and Gloriann Modson, Hastings, Nebraska Executive Director explained the services provided by Hope Harbor. Requested was $5,000. Terry Galloway representing the Humane Society presented the costs for the nonprofit organization and the services they provide for the City. Requested was $225,000. Councilmember Whitesides presented his recommendation for funding the outside agencies as follows: Hope Harbor $4,500 CVB 10,000 International Visitors 1,000 Crisis Center ------ GI Dive and Rescue ------ RSVP 10,000 Senior Citizens Ind. 15,000 Multicultural Coalition ------ Fishing Derby ------ Ethnic Festival 900 Total $41,400 Humane Society $170,000 Health Department 100,000 Clean Community 20,000 $290,000 Total $331,400 Page 3, City Council Study Session, June 19, 2007 Karen Rathke representing United Way commented that objective criteria were needed for council to make an informed decision. Ms. Rathke offered her services to work with the outside agencies and the council to come up with those objectives. Discussion was held regarding contracts with each agency. (See attached summary of Outside Agencies funding requests and staff recommendation.) Council took a 10 minute break. Review of 2007/2008 Full Time Equivalent’s (FTE) Requests: David Springer, Finance Director reported that at the last Regular City Council meeting of June 12, 2007 the City Council requested more information regarding FTE’s for each department. Question was asked concerning the original requests for FTE’s which were 28 additional FTE’s for 2007/2008. City staff reduced this amount to 12.270. Steve Paustian, Parks and Recreation Director explained his request for 2.250 FTE’s for the Recreation and Heartland Public Shooting Park. Also explained were the hours, maintenance, and events at the Shooting Park. Mr. Paustian stated a business plan was in the process. Steve Lamken, Police Chief explained the request for 1.000 FTE Custodian at the Law Enforcement Center. Out sourcing was discussed for the maintenance of the new building. Mr. Lamken stated 1/2 of the custodial service would be out sourced. Hall County would be paying rent for the space used by the Sheriff’s department. Jon Rosenlund, Emergency Management Director commented on his request of 1.000 FTE in which the county would pay for half of this position as it pays for half of all costs through the Emergency Management department. Gary Mader, Utilities Director commented on using consultants for some of the engineering services. Explained were the benefits of having those services in house. Mr. Mader explained the request for 3.000 FTE’s in the Utilities Department. The question was asked if adding the requested FTE’s and Outside Agencies would increase the tax rate. Finance Director David Springer stated these would not raise the tax rate but cash reserves would decrease. Steve Fosselman, Library Director commented on the request of 2.000 FTE’s for the Library. Part-time versus full-time was discussed. Mr. Fosselman stated the Library was meeting minimum standards. Lewis Kent, 624 East Meves spoke in opposition to hiring new employees. Steve Riehle, Public Works Director explained the revenue projection for the Solid Waste Division with regards to the 1.000 FTE requested. Page 4, City Council Study Session, June 19, 2007 (See attached summary of FTE requests.) ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 10:05 p.m. RaNae Edwards City Clerk Page 5, City Council Study Session, June 19, 2007 INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM TO: DAVID SPRINGER FROM: WESLEY D. NESPOR SUBJECT: FUNDS TO NON-PROFITS FOR PUBLIC PURPOSES DATE: 6/21/2007 CC: RANAE EDWARDS The Nebraska Constitution prohibits lending or giving credit in aid of any individual, association, or corporation. Courts have held this to mean lending credit which is not used for a public purpose. What constitutes a public purpose must be decided on a case by case basis focusing on the object sought to be accomplished and the degree and manner in which that object affects the public welfare. Unsolicited requests for money should be from non-profit entities because for-profit companies should go through the competitive bid/proposal process. Suggested guidelines 1 Council should prepare a written statement of the public purpose and how the entity will accomplish it. This is absolutely necessary because the Supreme Court has stated repeatedly that “it is for the Legislature (city council) to decide in the first instance what is and what is not a public purpose…”. State v. Cornell, 53 Neb. 556. 2 There should be a contract with the entity setting forth the purposes/services and itemized costs to accomplish those purposes (Humane Society for example). 3 There should be an annual accounting of how the funds were used. (see Chase v County of Douglas, 195 Neb. 838 regarding contract and accounting as measures to ensure expenditures are being used for a public purpose). 4 Some general guidelines to use in determining if the expenditure is for a public purpose. a. Is the general public benefited or only a small group? (e.g. if funds are given to a private entity for buses, the service must be available to the entire public and not just for use by members or patrons of the entity). b. If benefits redound to individuals, are those benefits only incidental to the benefits to the general public. (e.g. funds given to the chamber of commerce to “advertise the city” may benefit the members of the chamber but that is only incidental to the broader purpose of attracting tourists and industry for the benefit of the entire community). c. Is real estate being purchased or improved which will house a private entity? Case law disapproves this practice specifically. d. Are fixed assets being purchased or human resources acquired which will be used by the entity for other purposes? (e.g. Government funds are used to pay 100% of the costs of an employee or equipment but only part of the employee’s/equipment’s time is spent or used for the public purpose). Page 6, City Council Study Session, June 19, 2007 Page 7, City Council Study Session, June 19, 2007 SUMMARY OF REQUESTED FTE'S, FISCAL YEAR 2007-2008 ( Five Year Financial Impact ) PERSONAL COST Dept FTE Changes 2008-9 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 No.Department Name Recommended Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate GENERAL GOVERNMENT 114 Finance Less: Accounting Clerk (0.580)($16,377)($16,868)($17,374)($17,896)($18,432) PUBLIC SAFETY 223 Police Custodian 1.000 $36,307 $37,396 $38,518 $39,674 $40,864 School Crossing Guard 0.350 $5,242 $5,399 $5,561 $5,728 $5,900 Police Officer (Add in December)1.000 $44,494 $58,871 $60,637 $62,456 $64,330 Total Police Services 2.350 $86,043 $101,666 $104,716 $107,858 $111,094 226 Emergency Management Emergency Management Coordinator 1.000 $31,556 $32,503 $33,478 $34,482 $35,517 Emergency Management Clerk (1.000)($30,459)($31,373)($32,314)($33,283)($34,282) Communications Specialist 1.000 $43,648 $44,957 $46,306 $47,695 $49,126 Total Emergency Management 1.000 $44,745 $46,087 $47,470 $48,894 $50,361 COMMUNITY ENVIRONMENT & LEISURE 443 Library Library Assistant - Full Time 2.000 $81,828 $84,283 $86,811 $89,416 $92,098 Total Library 2.000 $81,828 $84,283 $86,811 $89,416 $92,098 445 Recreation Administration Recreation Coordinator (Split with Shooting Park)0.750 $14,786 $15,230 $15,686 $16,157 $16,642 448 Heartland Shooting Park Seasonal Worker 2.000 $33,586 $34,594 $35,631 $36,700 $37,801 Recreation Coordinator (Split with Recreation Dept)0.250 $6,917 $7,125 $7,338 $7,558 $7,785 2.250 40,503 34,594 35,631 36,700 37,801 PROPERTY TAX REQUIREMENT GENERAL GOVERNMENT (0.580)($16,377)($16,868)($17,374)($17,896)($18,432) PUBLIC SAFETY 3.350 $130,788 $147,754 $152,186 $156,752 $161,455 COMMUNITY ENVIRONMENT & LEISURE 5.000 $137,117 $134,106 $138,129 $142,273 $146,541 GENERAL FUND PROPERTY TAX REQUIREMENT 7.770 $251,528 $264,992 $272,941 $281,129 $289,563 ========================================== Page 8, City Council Study Session, June 19, 2007 SUMMARY OF REQUESTED FTE'S, FISCAL YEAR 2007-2008 ( Five Year Financial Impact ) PERSONAL COST Dept FTE Changes 2008-9 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12 No.Department Name Recommended Estimate Estimate Estimate Estimate ENTERPRISE FUNDS 505 Sanitary Landfill Equipment Operator 1.000 $33,686 $34,697 $35,737 $36,810 $37,914 510 Golf Course Seasonal Part-Time 0.500 $10,140 $10,444 $10,758 $11,080 $11,413 Maintenance Worker II (1.000)($58,881)($60,647)($62,467)($64,341)($66,271) Total Golf Course (0.500)($48,741)($50,203)($51,709)($53,261)($54,858) 520 Electric Utility Electrical Engineer 1.000 $61,393 $63,235 $65,132 $67,086 $69,098 Wireworker II 1.000 $58,893 $60,660 $62,480 $64,354 $66,285 Lineman Apprentice 1.000 $53,540 $55,146 $56,801 $58,505 $60,260 Total Electrical Utility 3.000 $173,826 $179,041 $184,412 $189,944 $195,643 53+A250Sewer Utility Maintenance Mechanic I or II 1.000 $48,950 $50,419 $51,931 $53,489 $55,094 Total Sewer Utility 1.000 $48,950 $50,419 $51,931 $53,489 $55,094 TOTAL ENTERPRISE FUNDS 4.500 $207,721 $213,953 $220,371 $226,982 $233,792 TOTAL CITY 12.270 $459,249 $478,944 $493,312 $508,112 $523,355 Item G4 Approving Re-Appointment of Ann Marsh to the Central District Health Department The Mayor has submitted the re-appointment of Ann Marsh to the Central District Health Department Board. This appointment would become effective July 1, 2007 upon approval by Council, and would expire on June 30, 2010. Approval is recommended. Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: Mayor Margaret Hornady City of Grand Island City Council Item G5 Approving Appointment of John Schultz to the Zoning Board of Adjustment The Mayor has submitted the appointment of John Schultz to the Zoning Board of Adjustment board. This appointment would become effective immediately upon approval by Council, and would expire on August 31, 2009. Mr. Schultz will be finishing the term of Karen Bredthauer who resigned to serve on the Regional Planning Commission. Approval is recommended. Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: Mayor Margaret Hornady City of Grand Island City Council Item G6 #2007-143 - Approving Acquisition of Utility Easement - Southeast Corner of the New HY-VEE Store Location at Webb Road and Old Potash Highway This item relates to the aforementioned Public Hearing Item E-3. Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: Gary R. Mader City of Grand Island City Council Approved as to Form ¤ ___________ June 21, 2007 ¤ City Attorney R E S O L U T I O N 2007-143 WHEREAS, a public utility easement is required by the City of Grand Island, from Hy-Vee, Inc., an Iowa Corporation, to install, upgrade, maintain and repair public utilities and appurtenances, including lines and transformers; and WHEREAS, a public hearing was held on June 26, 2007, for the purpose of discussing the proposed acquisition of an easement located in a part of Lot Two (2), Martin’s Fourth Subdivision in the City of Grand Island, Hall County, Nebraska, the said Twenty (20.0) foot wide easement being more particularly described as follows: Commencing at the northeasterly corner of Lot Two (2), Martin’s Fourth Subdivision; thence westerly along the northerly line of said Lot Two (2), a distance of fifty (50.0) feet; thence southerly, parallel with the easterly line of said Lot Two (2), a distance of three hundred fifty six and three tenths (356.3) feet to the ACTUAL point of beginning; thence westerly, parallel with the northerly line of said Lot Two (2), a distance of ninety four (94.0) feet; thence southerly, parallel with the easterly line of said Lot Two (2), a distance of twenty (20.0) feet; thence easterly, parallel with the northerly line of said Lot Two (2), a distance of ninety four (94.0) feet; thence northerly, parallel with the easterly line of said Lot Two (2), a distance of twenty (20.0) feet to the said point of beginning. The above-described easement and right-of-way containing 0.043 acres, more or less, as shown on the plat dated 6/1/2007, marked Exhibit “A” attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that the City of Grand Island be, and hereby is, authorized to acquire a public utility easement from Hy-Vee, Inc., an Iowa Corporation, on the above- described tract of land. - - - Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, June 26, 2007. _______________________________________ Margaret Hornady, Mayor Attest: _______________________________________ RaNae Edwards, City Clerk Item G7 #2007-144 - Approving Acquisition of Utility Easement - 1313 Johnstown Road Across from Diamond Plastics - Hulse This item relates to the aforementioned Public Hearing Item E-4. Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: Gary R. Mader City of Grand Island City Council Approved as to Form ¤ ___________ June 21, 2007 ¤ City Attorney R E S O L U T I O N 2007-144 WHEREAS, a public utility easement is required by the City of Grand Island, from Kevin Hulse and Tammie Hulse, husband and wife, to install, upgrade, maintain and repair public utilities and appurtenances, including lines and transformers; and WHEREAS, a public hearing was held on June 26, 2007, for the purpose of discussing the proposed acquisition of an easement located in a part of Lot Six (6), Deadwood Subdivision in the City of Grand Island, Hall County, Nebraska, the said Twenty (20.0) foot wide easement being more particularly described as follows: The westerly twenty (20.0) feet of the northerly twenty (20.0) feet of the southerly one hundred forty nine (149.0) feet of Lot Six (6) Deadwood Subdivision. The above-described easement and right-of-way containing a total of 400 square feet, more or less, as shown on the plat dated 6/13/2007, marked Exhibit “A”, attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that the City of Grand Island be, and hereby is, authorized to acquire a public utility easement from Kevin Hulse and Tammie Hulse, husband and wife, on the above-described tract of land. - - - Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, June 26, 2007. _______________________________________ Margaret Hornady, Mayor Attest: _______________________________________ RaNae Edwards, City Clerk Item G8 #2007-145 - Approving Bid Award for Cooling Tower Rebuild - Platte Generating Station Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: Gary R. Mader City of Grand Island City Council Council Agenda Memo From: Gary R. Mader, Utilities Director Wesley Nespor, Asst. City Attorney/Purchasing Meeting: June 26, 2007 Subject: Cooling Tower Rebuild – Platte Generating Station Item #’s: G-8 Presenter(s): Gary R. Mader, Utilities Director Background The cooling tower at the Platte Generating Station was constructed as part of the original plant nearly 30 years ago. It is a wooden structure with asbestos, fiberglass, and PVC components. It is regularly inspected to monitor its structural integrity. The asbestos louvers and casing panels were replaced with new fiberglass components in 1998. Recent inspections by consultants and the plant staff indicate that the wooden fan and hot water distribution decks have deteriorated due to exposure to the severe environment in the cooling tower and the weather. These components are in need of replacement. The current industry standard for the deck material is a fiberglass product, designed to provide extended life. Included in this replacement are associated structural support and mechanical components. Specifications for the replacement decks were developed by plant staff and issued for bid in accordance with City procurement requirements. Discussion Responses were received from the following bidders. The engineer’s estimate for this project was $700,000.00. Bidder Base Bid Price Midwest Towers, Inc. $409,094.00 EvapTech, Inc. $423,052.00 International Cooling Tower $548,910.00 An irregularity in the “as read” low bid from Midwest Towers regarding the bid bond was determined to be acceptable by the Legal Department. All bids were otherwise compliant with the specifications. Alternatives It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand. The Council may: 1. Make a motion to approve 2. Refer the issue to a Committee 3. Postpone the issue to future date 4. Take no action on the issue. Recommendation City Administration recommends that the Council award the Cooling Tower Rebuild Contract to Midwest Towers from Blue Springs, MO, as the low responsive bidder, in the amount of $409,094.00. Sample Motion Motion to award the bid of $409,094.00 from Midwest Towers for the Cooling Tower Rebuild as submitted. Purchasing Division of Legal Department INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM Dale M. Shotkoski, Assistant City Attorney Working Together for a Better Tomorrow, Today BID OPENING BID OPENING DATE: June 5, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. FOR: Cooling Tower Rebuild DEPARTMENT: Utilities ESTIMATE: $700,000.00 FUND/ACCOUNT: 520 PUBLICATION DATE: April 30, 2007 NO. POTENTIAL BIDDERS: 5 SUMMARY Bidder: EvapTech, Inc. International Cooling Tower Lenesa, KS Edmonton Alberta, Canada Bid Security: Western Surety Company Hartford Fire Insurance Co. Exceptions: Noted None Total Base Bid: $423,052.00 $548,910.00 Option #1 33,615.00 31,500.00 (16”) 33,390.00 (18”) Option #2 19,645.00 19,684.00 (16”) 21,098.00 (18”) Bidder: Midwest Towers, Inc. Tower Performance of Texas Blue Springs, MO Houston, TX Bid Security: Mid-Continent Casualty Co. Exceptions: None Total Base Bid: $409,094.00 Rejected Bid – No Bid Bond Option #1 32,814.00 Option #2 No Bid cc: Gary Mader, Utilities Director Bob Smith, Assist. Utilities Director Karen Nagel, Utilities Secretary Dale Shotkoski, Purchasing Agent Wes Nespor, Assistant City Attorney Sherry Peters, Legal Secretary P1160 Approved as to Form ¤ ___________ June 21, 2007 ¤ City Attorney R E S O L U T I O N 2007-145 WHEREAS, the City of Grand Island invited sealed bids for a Cooling Tower Rebuild, according to plans and specifications on file with the Utilities Department; and WHEREAS, on June 5, 2007, bids were received, opened and reviewed; and WHEREAS, Midwest Towers, of Blue Springs, Missouri, submitted a bid in accordance with the terms of the advertisement of bids and plans and specifications and all other statutory requirements contained therein, such bid being in the amount of $409,094.00; and WHEREAS, Midwest Towers’ bid is less than the estimate for such project. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that the bid of Midwest Towers, of Blue Springs, Missouri, in the amount of $409,094.00 for a Cooling Tower Rebuild is hereby approved as the lowest responsible bid. - - - Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, June 26, 2007. _______________________________________ Margaret Hornady, Mayor Attest: _______________________________________ RaNae Edwards, City Clerk Item G9 #2007-146 - Approving Bid Award for Boiler Inspection and Repair - Platte Generating Station Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: Gary R. Mader; Wesley Nespor City of Grand Island City Council Council Agenda Memo From: Gary R. Mader, Utilities Director Wesley Nespor, Asst. City Attorney/Purchasing Meeting: June 26, 2007 Subject: Boiler Inspection & Repair – Platte Generating Station Item #’s: G-9 Presenter(s): Gary R. Mader, Utilities Director Background The Utilities Department plans major overhauls and inspections at the Platte Generating Power Plant every five years to allow inspection and repair of the turbine-generator, boiler, and other major Power Plant systems. The next major outage is scheduled for fall, 2007. Inspection of the boiler includes inspection, testing and repair of the internal boiler parts such as; wall thickness testing of boiler tubes and pressure parts, non-destructive examination of ductwork and gas path components for cracking and fatigue failure, and alignment of sootblowers and fuel burner components. The boiler is 160 feet tall and there is no access to most of these internal areas. To prepare for the inspections, scaffolding is erected and surfaces are cleaned by using high-pressure water sprays and explosive blasting. Also included in the scope of this year’s repair is the replacement of the air heater transfer baskets and a high-pressure feedwater heater. Specifications for these inspections and repairs were developed by plant staff and issued for bids to qualified contractors specializing in this type of work. Discussion The specifications were advertised and bids received in accordance with the City Purchasing Code. Responses were received from the following bidders. The engineer’s estimate for this project was $1,000,000. Bidder Bid Price W-S Mechanical Group $ 579,337.00 Moorhead Machinery & Boiler $ 1,197,700.00 The low bid from W-S Mechanical Group is compliant with the specifications. Alternatives It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at ha nd. The Council may: 1. Make a motion to approve 2. Refer the issue to a Committee 3. Postpone the issue to future date 4. Take no action on the issue Recommendation City Administration recommends that the Council award the Boiler Inspection and Repair Contract to W-S Mechanical Group from Council Bluffs, Iowa, as the low responsive bidder, with the bid price of $579,337.11. Sample Motion Motion to approve the bid of $579,337.11 from W-S Mechanical Group for the Boiler Inspection & Repair as submitted. Purchasing Division of Legal Department INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM Dale M. Shotkoski, Assistant City Attorney Working Together for a Better Tomorrow, Today BID OPENING BID OPENING DATE: June 5, 2007 at 11:15 a.m. FOR: Boiler Inspection & Repair DEPARTMENT: Utilities ESTIMATE: $1,000,000.00 FUND/ACCOUNT: 520 PUBLICATION DATE: April 30, 2007 NO. POTENTIAL BIDDERS: 10 SUMMARY Bidder: W-S Mechanical Group, LLC Moorhead Machinery & Boiler Co. Council Bluffs, IA Minneapolis, MN Bid Security: Merchants Bonding Company Westchester Fire Insurance Co. Exceptions: None None Bid Price: $579,337.11 $1,197,700.00 cc: Gary Mader, Utilities Director Bob Smith, Assist. Utilities Director Karen Nagel, Utilities Secretary Dale Shotkoski, Purchasing Agent Wes Nespor, Assistant City Attorney Sherry Peters, Legal Secretary P1161 Approved as to Form ¤ ___________ June 21, 2007 ¤ City Attorney R E S O L U T I O N 2007-146 WHEREAS, the City of Grand Island invited sealed bids for Boiler Inspection and Repair, according to plans and specifications on file with the Utilities Department; and WHEREAS, on June 5, 2007, bids were received, opened and reviewed; and WHEREAS, W-S Mechanical Group, LLC, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, submitted a bid in accordance with the terms of the advertisement of bids and plans and specifications and all other statutory requirements contained therein, such bid being in the amount of $579,337.11; and WHEREAS, W-S Mechanical Group’s bid is less than the estimate for such project. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that the bid of W-S Mechanical Group, LLC, of Council Bluffs, Iowa, in the amount of $579,337.11 for Boiler Inspection and Repair is hereby approved as the lowest responsible bid. - - - Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, June 26, 2007. _______________________________________ Margaret Hornady, Mayor Attest: _______________________________________ RaNae Edwards, City Clerk Item G10 #2007-147 - Approving Acquisition of Utility Easement Located at 516 and 508 Sandalwood Drive, South of Faidley Avenue (Rudolf and Jeannice Plate) This item relates to the aforementioned Public Hearing Item E-6. Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: Chad Nabity City of Grand Island City Council Approved as to Form ¤ ___________ June 21, 2007 ¤ City Attorney R E S O L U T I O N 2007-147 WHEREAS, a public utility easement is required by the City of Grand Island, from Rudolf F. Plate and Jeannice R. Plate, husband and wife, and Tim C. Plate, a single person, to install, upgrade, maintain and repair public utilities and appurtenances, including lines and transformers; and WHEREAS, a public hearing was held on June 26, 2007, for the purpose of discussing the proposed acquisition of an easement located in a part of Lots Twenty Six (26) and Twenty Seven (27), Westwood Park Tenth Subdivision in the City of Grand Island, Hall County, Nebraska, the said Ten (10.0) foot wide easement being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at the southeast corner of said Lot Twenty Six (26); thence running northerly along the east line of said Lot Twenty Six (26); a distance of approximately Twenty Five and Eight Hundredths (25.08) feet; to a point on the south line of an existing Ten (10.0) foot wide utility easement; thence running westerly along the south line of an existing Ten (10.0) foot wide utility easement, a distance of Ten (10.0) feet; thence running southerly parallel with and Ten (10.0) feet west of the east line of said Lot Twenty Six (26), a distance of approximately Twenty Five and Eight Hundredths (25.08) feet, to a point on the north line of said Lot Twenty Seven (27); thence continuing southerly parallel with and Ten (10.0) feet west of the east line of said Lot Twenty Seven (27), a distance of Twenty (20.0) feet; thence running easterly parallel with the north line of said Lot Twenty Seven (27), a distance of Ten (10.0) feet, to a point on the east line of said Lot Twenty Seven (27); thence running northerly along the east line of said Lot Twenty Seven (27), a distance of Twenty (20.0) feet, to the point of beginning and containing 0.02 acres (901.6 Sq. Ft.) more or less. The above-described easement and right-of-way containing 0.02 acres (901.6 Sq. Ft.), more or less, as shown on the plat dated April 26, 2007, marked Exhibit “A” attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that the City of Grand Island be, and hereby is, authorized to acquire a public utility easement from Rudolf F. Plate and Jeannice R. Plate, husband and wife, and Tim C. Plate, a single person, on the above-described tract of land. - - - Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, June 26, 2007. _______________________________________ Margaret Hornady, Mayor Attest: _______________________________________ RaNae Edwards, City Clerk Item G11 #2007-148 - Approving Application for Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) 2007 This item relates to the aforementioned Public Hearing Item E-7. Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: Steve Lamken City of Grand Island City Council Approved as to Form ¤ ___________ June 21, 2007 ¤ City Attorney R E S O L U T I O N 2007-148 WHEREAS, the Grand Island Police Department has received notification that they and the Hall County Sheriff's Department have been awarded $28,366.00 in grant funds from the Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) program; and WHEREAS, the Grand Island Police Department will be allocated $14,183.00 of such funds; and WHEREAS, a public hearing was held on June 26, 2007, as required to discuss the proposed use of such funds; and WHEREAS, it is proposed that the grant funds allocated to the Grand Island Police Department be used to purchase a back-up server for the Data911 mobile data and video equipment for patrol vehicles. The remaining $14,183.00 is tentatively allocated to be split evenly between the Central Nebraska Drug Court and the Hall County Sheriff’s Department. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that approval is hereby granted to use grant funds received from the Justice Assistance Grant program to purchase a back-up server for the Data911 mobile data and video equipment for patrol vehicles, and to provide approximately $14,183.00 to the Central Nebraska Drug Court and the Hall County Sheriff’s Department. - - - Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, June 26, 2007. _______________________________________ Margaret Hornady, Mayor Attest: _______________________________________ RaNae Edwards, City Clerk Item G12 #2007-149 - Approving Release and Rescission of Bid Award for Backhoe/Loader with Nebraska Machinery Co. and Approving Bid Award to Ditch Witch of Nebraska Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: Steve Paustian City of Grand Island City Council Council Agenda Memo From: Steve Paustian, Parks and Recreation Director Meeting: June 26, 2007 Subject: Approving Release and Rescission of Bid Award for Backhoe/Loader with Nebraska Machinery Co. and Approving Bid Award to Ditch Witch of Nebraska Item #’s: G-12 Presenter(s): Steve Paustian, Parks and Recreation Director Background On April 10 2007 Nebraska Machinery Co., the Cat Rental Store of Doniphan was awarded a bid to provide the Park and Recreation Department a backhoe/Loader in the amount of $51,490.00. See attached memo from Cemetery Supervisor Mick Leth as to the purchase of this equipment. Since the award, it has come to the attention of Nebraska Machinery Co. that they are not authorized to sell the Ditch Witch unit they bid. Discussion Nebraska Machinery Co. has showed a willingness to pay the difference between the bid they provided the City and the bid provided by Ditch Witch of Nebraska. Ditch Witch of Nebraska has agreed to honor the original bid price of $59,360.01. The difference of $7,870.61 will be paid to the City by Nebraska Machinery Co. Alternatives It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand. The Council may: 1. Move to approve 2. Refer the issue to a Committee 3. Postpone the issue to future date 4. Take no action on the issue Recommendation City Administration recommends that the Council enter into an agreement with Ditch Witch of Nebraska to purchase the Backhoe/Loader and accept the reimbursement from Nebraska Machinery Co. Sample Motion Motion to Release and Rescind the bid Award of Backhoe/Loader with Nebraska Machinery Co. and approve the bid award to Ditch Witch of Nebraska. INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM From the Parks & Recreation Department Working Together for a Better Tomorrow, Today. DATE: March 12, 2007 TO: Steve Paustian, Parks & Recreation Director Dale Shotkoski, City Attorney FROM: Mick Leth, Cemetery Supervisor RE: Backhoe/Loader bid purchase -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- In researching a new backhoe/loader to replace our 1982 unit we have discovered that the “Class” of equipment we have now is no longer made. In February of 1983 we had six bidders that met our specs. Today, it is a different story. The weight of the backhoe/loader is by far the number one criteria for our cemetery’s operation. (This unit must be operated on and over graves constantly, often in very wet turf conditions.) Size is a secondary factor, as our shop door must be enlarged to allow room for any machine purchased. Also, the bigger sized units may not fit in our shop even with door height modifications. (See photos) Here is a recap of our research: Weight Height Our unit - 1982 Case 480D 9670 lbs 8’6” New units - 2007 New Holland B95 15,223 lbs 9’6” ** 2007 CAT 420 17,196 lbs 9’3” ** 2007 CASE 580M 14,996 lbs 8’11” * 2007 John Deere 310SJ 15,495 lbs 9’2” ** 2007 Komatsu WB146 16,090 lbs 9’8” ** 2007 JCB 2CX 14,008 lbs 8’11” * 2007 TEREX 760B 15,151 lbs 9’6” ** 2007 Ditch Witch XT1600 9420 lbs 8’11” * *Requires $3,300 door ** Requires $9,000 door The Ditch Witch is the only unit we can realistically consider. The next lightest machine weighs over two tons more that our current unit. As for smaller or “mini” units, none meet our criteria in digging depth, horse power, reach, loader capability etc. In summary, we feel a 10,000 lb maximum weight specification is justified. We hope a new unit will last 25+ years as the last one did, and we do not want to constantly deal with repairing turf and fixing crushed graves that a heavier unit would cause. Also, we don’t want to have to move stones to allow room for the backhoe on almost every grave dug. This summary is based on researching and viewing other cemeteries units all across the Midwest. ML:pb Purchasing Division of Legal Department INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM Dale M. Shotkoski, Assistant City Attorney Working Together for a Better Tomorrow, Today BID OPENING BID OPENING DATE: March 28, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. FOR: Backhoe/Loader DEPARTMENT: Park and Recreation ENGINEER’S ESTIMATE: $68,000.00 FUND/ACCOUNT: 10044405-85615 PUBLICATION DATE: March 17, 2007 NO. POTENTIAL BIDDERS: 8 SUMMARY Bidder: Mid Land Equipment Mid Land Equipment Lincoln, NE Lincoln, NE Exceptions: Noted Noted Model: Case CX 50B Case 580M Base Bid Price: $44,233.00 $56,083.78 Trade -In: 8,500.00 8,500.00 Total: $35,733.00 $47,583.78 Bidder: NMC The Cat Rental Store Murphy Tractor Doniphan, NE Grand Island, NE Exceptions: None Noted Model: Ditch Witch XT1600 John Deere 110 Base Bid Price: $59,990.00 $45,170.00 Trade -In: 8,500.00 8,250.00 Total: $51,490.00 $36,920.00 Bidder: Ditch Witch of Nebraska Rueter’s Grand Island, NE Johnston, IA Exceptions: None Model: Ditch Witch XT1600 No Bid Base Bid Price: $67,248.69 Trade -In: 7,888.08 Total: $59,360.61 cc: Steve Paustian, Park and Recreation Director Mick Leth, Cemetery Supervisor Patti Buettner, Park and Recreation Secretary Dale Shotkoski, Purchasing Agent Sherry Peters, Legal Secretary P1155 Approved as to Form ¤ ___________ June 22, 2007 ¤ City Attorney R E S O L U T I O N 2007-149 WHEREAS, on April 10, 2007, by Resolution No. 2007-88, the City of Grand Island awarded a bid for a backhoe/loader to Nebraska Machinery Co., the Cat Rental Store of Doniphan, Nebraska, in the amount of $51,490; and WHEREAS, the Nebraska Machinery Co., the Cat Rental Store of Doniphan, Nebraska, is contractually unable to comply with the bid; and WHEREAS, the next lowest bidder for equipment with the same specifications is Ditch Witch of Nebraska, such bid being in the amount of $67,248.69 minus a trade-in of $7,888.08 for a total bid of $59,360.61; and WHEREAS, the Nebraska Machinery Co., the Cat Rental Store, has agreed to reimburse the difference. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that the bid of Ditch Witch of Nebraska in the amount of $59,360.61, is hereby approved as the lowest responsible bid and that the previous low bidder, Nebraska Machinery Co., the Cat Rental Store, is discharged from its bid upon payment to the City of Grand Island for the difference in price and that the Mayor is hereby authorized to sign a release and rescission of Nebraska Machinery Co.’s bid upon receipt of the funds. - - - Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, June 26, 2007. _______________________________________ Margaret Hornady, Mayor Attest: _______________________________________ RaNae Edwards, City Clerk Item G13 #2007-150 - Approving Setting Board of Equalization Date for Annual Mowing Assessments Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: David Springer City of Grand Island City Council Council Agenda Memo From: Dave Springer, Finance Director Meeting: June 26, 2007 Subject: Approving Setting the Board of Equalization Date for Annual Mowing Assessments Item #’s: G-13 Presenter(s): Dave Springer, Finance Director Background State Statutes required that First Class Cities shall meet in June annually to address any special assessments that have not otherwise been provided for by setting a date for a Board of Equalization and subsequent levies. Discussion The only assessments we are aware of that need action are for mowing and weed control on properties wherein the owners, after proper notification, failed to act and the City was forced to have mowing and weed control services done at the City’s expense. The Council is asked to assess those expenses back to the property owners and to sit as a Board of Equalization to determine the benefits of these actions on July 24, 2007. Alternatives It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand. The Council may: 1. Move to approve 2. Refer the issue to a Committee 3. Postpone the issue to future date 4. Take no action on the issue Recommendation City Administration recommends that the Council sit as a Board of Equalization on July 24, 2007 to determine the benefits of mowing and weed control actions undertaken by the City. . Sample Motion Motion to approve July 24, 2007 for Council to sit as a Board of Equalization for mowing and weed control assessments. Approved as to Form ¤ ___________ June 21, 2007 ¤ City Attorney R E S O L U T I O N 2007-150 WHEREAS, pursuant to Article III of Chapter 17 of the Grand Island City Code, for reason of the failure of the owners, agents, occupants, or persons in possession, charge, or control of lots, tracts, or parcels of land in the City to comply with the notices of the City Council in regard to the cutting and removing of weeds and other rank growth of vegetation, such weeds and other rank growth of vegetation were caused to be removed by the City, and the actual expenses thereof have been audited and paid by the City; and WHEREAS, the owners, agents, occupants, or persons in possession, charge or control of lots, tracts or parcels of land whereon such weeds and other rank growth of vegetation were caused to be cut by the City and are in default of payment of the expenses and costs incurred by the City therefore; and WHEREAS, the Finance Department for the City has reported the expenses and costs of such weed cutting to the City Council and recommends that the City Council sit as a Board of Equalization to assess the expenses and costs thereof to the respective lots, tracts, or parcels of land. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that: 1. The report of the Finance Department for the City pertaining to the cutting of weeds and other rank growth of vegetation is hereby accepted. 2. The City Council shall sit as a Board of Equalization to determine the benefits of such weed cutting on July 24, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. 3. The City Clerk shall give notice, as required by Section 16-707, R.R.S. 1943, as amended, by one publication in the Grand Island Independent that the City Council will sit as a Board of Equalization on the date and time set forth above, at least ten (10) days prior thereto; and further, that the City Clerk, within five (5) days after the date of publication of the above notice and 10 days prior to the meeting, shall send by U.S. mail, a copy of the published notice to each and every party appearing to have a direct legal interest in such proceeding whose name and post office addresses are known, in accordance with the provisions of Section 25-520.01, R.R.S. 1943, as amended. - - - Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, June 26, 2007. _______________________________________ Margaret Hornady, Mayor Attest: _______________________________________ - 2 - RaNae Edwards, City Clerk Item G14 #2007-151 - Approving Change Order No.1 for Fiber Optic Cable Installation Project 2006-OPGW-III with Kayton Electric Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: David Springer City of Grand Island City Council Council Agenda Memo From: Carl Hurd, Information Technology Manager Meeting: June 26, 2007 Subject: Approving Change Order No. 1 for Contract 2006- OPGW-III. Installation of 48 Strand ADSS Fiber Optic Cable to Provide Network Connection Between City Hall, County Offices, New Safety Center and New Jail Item #’s: G-14 Presenter(s): David Springer, Finance Director Carl Hurd, Information Technology Manager Background On April 10, 2007 the City entered into an agreement with Kayton Electric for the installation of 48 fiber ADSS from Phelps Control Center to the New Safety Center (Resolution 2007-87). The original specifications included installing 2-4” conduits from a pole along Highway 30 to the Safety Center Building. These are not needed as there are currently 5-4” conduits that run from the building to the ditch along Highway 30 near the pole. These are currently open ended, in the ditch, and need to be terminated in an enclosure to allow for proper install of Fiber, Phone and Cable. This change order will allow for the installation of a 4’x 6’ enclosure, with all fittings, to allow for the proper use of the 5 existing conduits. It will also allow for the installation of a fiber optic splice enclosure on the pole. The original contract included labor to run the conduit from the pole to the building. That amount will cover the labor costs of this change order. This change order is for material costs only. Alternatives It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand. The Council may: 1. Make a motion to approve the Change Order in the amount of $5,120.00 to complete the project. 2. Refer the issue to a Committee 3. Postpone the issue to future date 4. Take no action on the issue Recommendation City Administration recommends that the Council approve the Change Order with Kayton Electric, Inc. of Holdrege, Nebraska in the amount of $5,120.00 to complete the project. Sample Motion Approve the Change Order to complete the project. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY – CITY HALL Telephone 308.385.5444 ext 167 FAX 308.385.5565 Working Together for a Better Tomorrow, Today. CHANGE ORDER TO: Kayton Electric, Inc. Change Order No. 1 120 S. Lincoln St., P.O. Box 27 Holdrege, Ne. 68949 PROJECT: Fiber Optic Cable to Safety Center/Jail (2006 -OPGW-III) You are hereby directed to make the following change in your contract. 1. Install the Quazite Enclosure including an 18” rock base and needed fittings to connect to five existing conduits running into the Safety Center. Cost $3,745.00 2. Set a new Splice enclosure and splice all strands of the ADSS fiber on pole “J” as shown on the route map. Install two – 2” conduits from pole “J” to the Quazite enclosure. Cost $1,375.00 Reference Quote from Kayton emailed June 13, 2007. The Original Contract Amount $59,733.00 Previous Change Order Amounts 0 The Contract Sum is increased by this Change Order $5,120.00 The Contract duration remains unchanged. Approval and Acceptance of this Change Order acknowledges understanding and agreement that the cost and time adjustments included represent the complete values arising out of and/or incidental to the work described herein. Additional claims will not be considered. APPROVED: CITY OF GRAND ISLAND By______________________________________ Date__________________ Mayor Attest____________________________________ _____________________________________ Approved as to Form, City Attorney ACCEPTED: Patrick Pfeifer By______________________________________ Date__________________ Approved as to Form ¤ ___________ June 21, 2007 ¤ City Attorney R E S O L U T I O N 2007-151 WHEREAS, on April 10, 2007, by Resolution 2007-87, the City Council of the City of Grand Island awarded Kayton Electric, Inc. of Holdrege, Nebraska, the bid for Fiber Optic Cable installation Project 2006-OPGW-III; and WHEREAS, it has been determined that modifications to the work to be performed by Kayton Electric, Inc. are necessary; and WHEREAS, such modifications have been incorporated into Change Order No. 1; and WHEREAS, it is recommended that modifications to the work to be done by Kayton Electric, Inc. are necessary; and WHEREAS, such modifications have been incorporated into Change Order No. 1; and WHEREAS, the result of such modification will increase the contract amount by $5,120.00 for a revised contract price of $64,853.00. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that the Mayor be, and hereby is, authorized and directed to execute Change Order No. 1 between the City of Grand Island and Kayton Electric, Inc. of Holdrege, Nebraska to provide the modifications set out as follows: Install the Quazite Enclosure………….....................................................................................$3,745.00 Set New Splice Enclosure and Splice all Strands of the ADSS Fiber ............................................$1,375.00 - - - Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, June 26, 2007. _______________________________________ Margaret Hornady, Mayor Attest: _______________________________________ RaNae Edwards, City Clerk Item G15 #2007-152 - Approving Agreement with Randy Hartmann of Farmers National Company for Land Management Services Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: Dale Shotkoski City of Grand Island City Council Council Agenda Memo From: Wesley D. Nespor, Assistant City Attorney Meeting: June 26, 2007 Subject: Approving Agreement for Farm Management Services Item #’s: G-15 Presenter(s): Wesley D. Nespor, Assistant City Attorney Background The city owns several farm properties that are rented each year to farm tenants. The properties were professionally managed by Bob Thomazin of the Thomazin Company, who recently retired from the farm management business. Proposals were solicited for performing farm management services and one proposal was received from the Farmers National Company. Discussion The proposed fees are 7% of the gross farm income. This is consistent with fees customary charged for this type of service in Nebraska. Alternatives It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand. The Council may: 1. Move to approve 2. Refer the issue to a Committee 3. Postpone the issue to future date 4. Take no action on the issue Recommendation City Administration recommends that the Council approve the agreement. Sample Motion Motion to approve the agreement with Farmers National Company to perform farm management services for the City of Grand Island. Approved as to Form ¤ ___________ June 21, 2007 ¤ City Attorney R E S O L U T I O N 2007-152 WHEREAS, the City of Grand Island invited quotes for Farm Management Services for the City of Grand Island Farm Real Estate, on file with the Legal Department; and WHEREAS, on June 12, 2007, one quote was received, reviewed and evaluated in accordance with established criteria; and WHEREAS, Farmers National Company of Grand Island, Nebraska, submitted a quote in accordance with the terms of the request for proposals and all statutory requirements contained therein and the City Procurement Code, such quote being for 7% of the gross farm income. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that the quote of Farmers National Company of Grand Island, Nebraska, for Farm Management Services for the City of Grand Island Farm Real Estate for 7% of the gross farm income is hereby approved. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor is hereby authorized and directed to execute an agreement for such services on behalf of the City of Grand Island. - - - Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, June 26, 2007. _______________________________________ Margaret Hornady, Mayor Attest: _______________________________________ RaNae Edwards, City Clerk Item I1 #2007-153 - Consideration of Request from Mongolian Vietnamese Restaurant, LLC dba Mongolian Vietnamese Restaurant, 1816 North Webb Road for Class "A" Liquor License and Liquor Manager Designation This item relates to the aforementioned Public Hearing Item E-1. Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: RaNae Edwards City of Grand Island City Council Approved as to Form ¤ ___________ June 21, 2007 ¤ City Attorney R E S O L U T I O N 2007-153 WHEREAS, an application was filed by Mongolian Vietnamese Restaurant, LLC, doing business as Mongolian Vietnamese Restaurant at 1816 North Webb Road, Grand Island, Nebraska, for a Class "A" Liquor License; and WHEREAS, a public hearing notice was published in the Grand Island Independent as required by state law on June 16, 2007; such publication cost being $13.60; and WHEREAS, Dua Tran Nguyen, 303 East 8th Street, Grand Island, Nebraska, has applied for a liquor manager designation for the business; and WHEREAS, a public hearing was held on June 26, 2007, for the purpose of discussing such liquor license application. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that: ____ The City of Grand Island hereby recommends approval of the above-identified liquor license application. ____ The City of Grand Island hereby makes no recommendation as to the above- identified liquor license application. ____ The City of Grand Island hereby makes no recommendation as to the above- identified liquor license application with the following stipulations: __________ __________________________________________________________ ____ The City of Grand Island hereby recommends denial of the above-identified liquor license application for the following reasons: _________________________ __________________________________________________________ ____ The City of Grand Island hereby recommends/denies the application of Dua Tran Nguyen, 303 East 8th Street, as liquor manager of such business upon the completion of a state approved alcohol server/seller training program. - - - Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, June 26, 2007. _______________________________________ Margaret Hornady, Mayor Attest: _______________________________________ RaNae Edwards, City Clerk Item I2 #2007-154 - Consideration of Request from JG & J, Inc. dba Bullwinkle's Bar and Grill, 3235 South Locust Street for a Change of Location for Class "C-23100" Liquor License to 2118 North Webb Road This item relates to the aforementioned Public Hearing Item E-2. Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: RaNae Edwards City of Grand Island City Council Approved as to Form ¤ ___________ July 25, 2006 ¤ City Attorney R E S O L U T I O N 2007-154 WHEREAS, an application was filed by JG&J, Inc., doing business as Bullwinkle’s Bar and Grill located at 3235 South Locust Street for a Change of Location for Class "C -23100" Liquor License to 2118 North Webb Road; and WHEREAS, a public hearing notice was published in the Grand Island Independent as required by state law on June 16, 2007; such publication cost being $14.91; and WHEREAS, a public hearing was held on June 26, 2007, for the purpose of discussing such liquor license application. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that: ____ The City of Grand Island hereby recommends approval of the above-identified liquor license application for change of location. ____ The City of Grand Island hereby makes no recommendation as to the above- identified liquor license application change of location. ____ The City of Grand Island hereby makes no recommendation as to the above- identified liquor license application for change of location with the following stipulations: ________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ ____ The City of Grand Island hereby recommends denial of the above-identified liquor license application for change of location for the following reasons: _____ __________________________________________________________ - - - Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, June 26, 2007. _______________________________________ Margaret Hornady, Mayor Attest: _______________________________________ RaNae Edwards, City Clerk Item I3 #2007-155 - Consideration of Northwestern Gas Rate Negotiation/Increase Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: Dale Shotkoski City of Grand Island City Council Council Agenda Memo From: Dale M. Shotkoski, City Attorney Meeting: June 26, 2007 Subject: Northwestern Corporation’s Application for Natural Gas Rate Increase to the Nebraska Public Service Commission and Its Request to Negotiate with the Local Municipalities Item #’s: I-3 Presenter(s): Dale M. Shotkoski, City Attorney Background The cities of Grand Island, Alda, Kearney and North Platte, Nebraska, receive natural gas service from the Northwestern Corporation. In the state of Nebraska, the Pub lic Service Commission has authority over natural gas rate increases and by statute has defined the procedures for negotiations between local municipalities and natural gas providers. Neb. Rev. Stat., §66-1838 authorizes jurisdictional utilities to negotia te with the effected municipalities with respect to a proposed general rate change provided that the municipalities representing more than 50% of the rate payers within the effected municipalities adopt resolutions evidencing their intent to negotiate with the jurisdictional utility, in this case Northwestern Corporation. The effected cities are not obligated to such negotiations, and if they choose not to, they can provide notice of rejection of the resolution to negotiate locally and provide to the Public Service Commission and Northwestern within seven days of its adoption fee the notice thereof. If more than 50% of the rate payers of the affected cities choose not to negotiate locally, the Public Service Commission, after receiving notice thereof, sha ll proceed immediately to conduct the rate change review. In Nebraska, there has been created the position of the public advocate who has the power to investigate the legality and reasonableness of rates, charges and practices of jurisdictional utilities. The public advocate further has the power to petition for relief and request, initiate and intervene in any proceeding before the Commission concerning such utilities and furthermore may represent and appear for rate payers and the public in proceedings before the Public Service Commission and in any negotiations or other measure to resolve disputes that give rise to such proceedings. There are additional powers provided to the public advocate by statute, essentially granting the public advocate the power and authority to act in rate cases such as this to conduct the negotiation and if necessary, the formal hearing. The public advocate is prohibited from advocating on behalf of any single individual, organization or entity, and statutorily it is recognized that this area of the law is a “highly technical environment” and the use of the public advocate was created to help minimize the cost of the regulations. The public advocate is a relatively new office, created in 2003, to assist in dealing with the utility issues before the Public Service Commission. It was recognized that this area of law is highly technical. The office of the public advocate was created to represent the interest of Nebraska citizens in all cases of jurisdictional utility rate payers, other than high volume rate payers, in matters involving jurisdictional utilities and furthermore acts as trial staff before the Public Service Commission. The public advocate has been given a responsibility to help in the provision of safe, efficient and reliable utility services at just and reasonable rates. The public advocate for the Public Service Commission in the state of Nebraska is Roger Cox, an attorney in Lincoln, Nebraska. If the city chooses to negotiate locally, as provided in Neb. Rev. Stat., §66-1838, there is also available through the Public Service Commission a revolving loan fund. An application for loan funds could be made to the Public Service Commission to help cover the cost that would be incurred and to properly conduct the negotiations. The loan from the revolving fund would allow the city to expend money for the retention of attorneys, accountants or other necessary experts and consultants. If applications for the loan funds are made and granted, there are restrictions on what the loan funds can be used for and detailed invoicing is necessary in the application for the funds. Upon conclusion of the negotiations, if loan funds are applied for and granted, the jurisdictional utility, in this case, Northwestern Corporation, would be required to repay the loan within thirty days of it being billed by the Public Service Commission. Northwestern Corporation is then allowed to recover the loan amount from its customers by a special surcharge billed on monthly statements for not more than twelve months and may be shown as a charge for rate negotiation expenses. Discussion Representatives from Northwestern Corporation wish to address council on its desire to negotiate locally. The public advocate has also been invited to address council on the role and services which could be provided to the citizens and rate payers of Grand Island if public advocate services are used. This item is presented the City Council to carefully consider its option in response to the rate increase applied for by Northwestern Corporation. Alternatives It appears that the Council has the following alternatives concerning the issue at hand. The Council may: 1. Move to approve or reject the resolution of Northwestern Corporation for local municipal negotiations. 2. Refer the issue to a Committee. 3. Postpone the issue to future date. 4. Take no action on the issue. Sample Motion Motion to approve or reject the resolution of Northwestern Corporation for local municipal negotiations. Approved as to Form ¤ ___________ June 21, 2007 ¤ City Attorney R E S O L U T I O N 2007-155 A Resolution evidencing the intent of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, to participate in negotiations with Northwestern Corporation pursuant to Neb. Rev. Stat., §66-1838(4) with respect to Northwestern’s application for natural gas rate increase and to avail itself of the municipal rate negotiations revolving loan fund. WHEREAS, on June 1, 2007, NorthWestern Corporation, doing business as NorthWestern Energy (“NorthWestern”), filed an Application for Natural Gas Rate Increase (“Application”) with the Nebraska Public Service Commission (“PSC”); and WHEREAS, Section 66-1838 of the Nebraska revised Statutes authorizes jurisdictional utilities such as NorthWestern to negotiate directly with affected municipalities such as the City with respect to a proposed general rate change provide, among other things, municipalities representing more than fifty percent (50%) of the ratepayers within the affected municipalities adopt resolutions evidencing their intent to negotiate with the jurisdictional utility; and WHEREAS, NorthWestern desires to negotiate directly with the City as permitted by Neb. Rev. Stat., §66-1838; and WHEREAS, the City desires to negotiate directly with NorthWestern as permitted by Neb. Rev. Stat., §66-1838; and WHEREAS, in the event a sufficient number of affected municipalities adopt resolutions expressing a desire to negotiate directly with NorthWestern with respect to the Application, the City desires to work cooperatively with the other affected municipalities in negotiating with NorthWestern and to jointly apply for a loan from the Nebraska Municipal Rate Negotiations Revolving Loan Fund (“Fund”) as permitted by Neb. Rev. Stat., §66-1839. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA, that: 1. The City desires to negotiate directly with NorthWestern with respect to the Application as permitted by Neb. Rev. Stat., §66-1838; 2. The City Attorney and other City staff are directed to work cooperatively with the other affected municipalities and, in the event a sufficient number of affected municipalities adopt resolutions expressing a desire to negotiate directly with NorthWestern, to commence joint negotiations with NorthWestern and to take appropriate steps to apply for a long from the Fund; and 3. A copy of this Resolution is to be provided to the PSC and NorthWestern within seven (7) days after its adoption. - 2 - - - - Adopted by the City Council of the City of Grand Island, Nebraska, June 26, 2007. _______________________________________ Margaret Hornady, Mayor Attest: _______________________________________ RaNae Edwards, City Clerk Item J1 Approving Payment of Claims for the Period of June 13, 2007 through June 26, 2007 The Claims for the period of June 13, 2007 through June 26, 2007 for a total amount of $2,080,427.18. A MOTION is in order. Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: David Springer City of Grand Island City Council Item J2 Approving Payment of Claim Submitted by Howard Maxon Vincent Valentino, Attorney for Howard Maxon has submitted a claim in the amount of approximately $216,000.00 for past and current salary, benefits, and reimbursements. Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: Dale Shotkoski City of Grand Island City Council Item X1 Update Concerning FOP and IBEW (Wastewater Treatment Plant) Union Contract Negotiations City Attorney Dale Shotkoski will update the Mayor and Council on IBEW (Wastewater Treatment Plant) and FOP Union Contract Negotiations. Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Council Session City of Grand Island Staff Contact: Dale Shotkoski City of Grand Island City Council