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C) Announcements. Mayor Jepsen
welcomed all to the Council Meeting and noted that there was
a full council present as well as a full room of interested citizens.
Mayor Jepsen welcomed Dan Crouse from the Dalles representing
the Department of Environmental Quality on site assessments.
Mayor Jepsen asked City Manager Breazeale if he had any announcements.
Breazeale stated that there were a few additions to the information
packets presented to the council. The first item was a letter
from Ace Consultants regarding a time extension for the Water
System Supply Feasibility Study. The next item was a letter from
the Oregon Downtown Development Association in support of Heppner's
efforts to locate a City Hall/Library complex downtown. Following
this letter was a resolution of the City of Heppner, Morrow County,
Oregon Authorizing Extension Of Loan Agreements, and Related
Documents. The next item was an Easement from the City of Heppner
as Grantor, conveying to Dave and Kay Fowler, Grantees. There
was also an article from the East Oregonian describing a recent
tour of the Two Rivers Prison in Umatilla. Lastly was A Resolution
Authorizing Increasing the Credit Limit On The Visa Credit Card
With The Bank of Eastern Oregon. D) Approval of the Minutes from
the February 14, 2000 Council Meeting. Mayor Jepsen asked if there were any corrections
to the minutes. Tom Wolff questioned page 5, Communications From
The City Attorney, paragraph C, permitting Dave Fowler to maintain
a carport which may be encroaching on the City right-of-way for
Cannon Street. Councilman Wolff requested clarification to require
that not only Mr. Fowler, but any successor owners be required
to move the structure anytime that the City requested it to be
removed from the right-of-way. City Attorney Kuhn clarified that
future successor owners would be required to meet the same requirements
established by the Planning Department. The easement allowance
was at the City's discretion and is revocable at any time for
any reason. Mayor Jepsen asked if there were any other corrections
to the minutes. None were offered. Motion by Councilor Tim Van
Cleave, second by Councilor Skip Matthews, to approve the minutes
as submitted. MOTION CARRIED. Abstained: Kay Robinson and Jerri
Sly.
E) Report from Planning Commission.
No report was given as the Planning Commission did not meet in
March.
F) Correspondence. Mayor Jepsen
stated that there was correspondence from GEODC and asked City
Manager Breazeale to review the material. Breazeale explained
that the letter gives notice of projects that were listed under
the SCERT process and those projects that have received lead
agency assignment. Breazeale pointed out that most of the projects
have not yet received lead agency assignment. There was no other
correspondence.
A) Oral communications from the
public not on the agenda. Johanne Wood and Betty Wilhelm
offered comments/suggestions on the problems associated with
the woodpile located at the intersection of May and Gale Streets.
The woodpile is owned by Tom Gonty, and is located on city property.
Mr. Gonty has made improvements to, and been maintaining this
property for several years. However, the woodpile reportedly
poses visibility problems for Mrs. Wood and Mrs. Wilhelm. Councilman
Skip Matthews suggests that the Council review a copy of the
appropriate city ordinance(s) prior to the next City Council
meeting. Police Chief Rathbun will acquire the necessary measurements.
The City Council members will tour the area and evaluate potential
problems.
Mayor Jepsen welcomed the new owners
of Kate's Pizza, John and Debbie Cramer, introduced by Kathie
Maben. The Cramers' will be welcomed by the Heppner Greeters
upon their arrival.
A) Abatement of Nuisance at 125
S. Chase St., Map 2S 26 35BC, Tax Lot #10200. Chief Rathbun noted that the property
in question has been cleaned up, and showed a video tape of the
completed project. Mayor Jepsen and Police Chief Rathbun noted
that this problem requires no further action.
A) Code Enforcement. Chief
Rathbun remarked that he has received additional complaints,
and referred to three additional properties requiring clean up.
He again used a video tape to aid in the assessment of each.
The first property is the residence of William and Sally Maddern,
located at 165 E. Quaid St.. The second property, 135 E. Quaid,
is located next door, and is the residence of Tom Wicklund. The
third property located at 175 E. Quaid St., is the residence
of David Hanna. Chief Rathbun notes that the yards are littered
with empty boxes, used appliances and other types of debris which
create an eyesore for the adjoining property owners. The Council
Members recommend that all three property owners be sent an Abatement
of Nuisance letter/30 Day Notice. Motion by Councilor Robinson,
second by Councilor Sly. MOTION CARRIED. Police Chief Rathbun
noted that the property known as 168 W. Willow St. located next
to City Hall, is in the process of being cleaned up. The abandoned
vehicle remaining on the property will be given to the City.
B) Resolution No. , A Resolution
Declaring Certain Property a Nuisance and Ordering Cleanup of
Property. (This item was discussed earlier but is placed
here to conform to the agenda.) Police Chief Rathbun recommended
that no further action be taken on this property.
C) Activity Report. Police
Chief Rathbun had furnished an activity report for his department.
Councilman Wolff questioned the hours of Police Officer Dale
Rhode. Chief Rathbun notes that Officer Rhode is a Reserve Officer
and would have fewer hours. Councilman Wolff also questioned
overtime hours. Chief Rathbun explained that the overtime hours
had been used by officers out enforcing the seatbelt law. Some
of the overtime hours for Chief Rathbun had been paid for by
ODOT. Councilman Wolff observed that there had been 96% compliance
with the seatbelt law, an improvement from previous years. Mayor
Jepsen noted that the Federal Government was looking for 96%
compliance. There was no report from the Police Commission meeting
from February 25th.
Councilman Wolff asked for information
regarding a dog shelter that was previously located at the rodeo
grounds across the creek. Chief Rathbun commented that the shelter
is no longer there, but Columbia Basin had given them a similar
item that was presently out at the range. The fencing is still
available. Councilman Wolff questioned the importance of a dog
shelter. Chief Rathbun comments that would be the decision of
the City Council budget committee. The City Council budget could
not previously afford a shelter facility. Chief Rathbun notes
that he has received numerous complaints regarding dogs roaming
the city streets. Mayor Jepsen recognizes that a decision needs
to be made regarding an animal shelter, and dog licensing. He
also remarked that this could possibly be put to vote by the
people on a ballot measure. City Manager Breazeale advised that
the problem could also be handled administratively by Council
action by putting it in the budget and establishing an animal
control program. Manager Breazeale noted that the City already
has the licensing authority in the ordinance. Councilman Matthews
commented on a veterinary bill for euthanasia. Chief Rathbun
explained that there had been a dog biting children at the school.
No one had claimed the animal. The usual procedure is to take
the animal to the vet and have the vet hold the animal for three
days to give the owner a chance to claim the animal. Mayor Jepsen
notes that the City pays the boarding and euthanasia bill if
the animal is not claimed. If the animal owner claims the animal,
they are responsible for the bill.
Councilman Wolff asked about the
new Police Chief for the City of Boardman. Chief Rathbun explained
that there is presently an intern filling the position, he is
a retired police officer belonging to the same association as
Chief Rathbun. The City of Boardman is in the process of hiring
a new Police Chief. Councilwoman Sly asked if the graffiti has
been removed from the pump house in the city's park. Chief Rathbun
commented that the individual responsible for vandalizing the
pump house had left the area. Mayor Jepsen stated that it is
the City's policy to cover up graffiti as quickly as possible.
A) Activity Report. Public
Works Director Dave Winters was not present at the Council Meeting
but had submitted a written report and a Commission Meeting report.
Mayor Jepsen pointed out that copies of the minutes of both reports
are included in the Council packets.
B) Utilities Commission Meeting
February 17, 2000.
C) Parks and Lands Commission
February 28, 2000. Minutes of the meeting had been distributed
to each councilor with their packets. Councilman Wolff asked about the
old abandoned landfill. Breazeale stated that he and Public Works
Director Winters had inspected the site and feel that the problem
has been taken care of. Tom also inquired about the cost of sidewalks
constructed by the Neighborhood Enhancement Team. Manager Breazeale
clarified that the cost of the concrete and materials were to
be paid for by the property owner. The Enhancement Team supplies
the labor and equipment to remove the old sidewalk and to form
and pour the new sidewalk. The land owner is required to sign
a form acknowledging their responsibility for continuing maintenance.
Councilor Wolff also asked about a water leak located on Church
St. Manager Breazeale stated that the leak was at the meter and
has been repaired. Mayor Jepsen mentioned that the posts used
to secure the newly planted trees along Main St. have been removed.
Councilman Wolff discussed salvaging the deck of the old swimming
pool. Breazeale stated that Public Works Director Winters will
provide an estimate of cost and a recommendation of whether or
not to demolish the deck.
D) Hiring of Utility Worker.
Manager Breazeale discussed filling the vacant Utility Worker
position. There were five candidates being interviewed. The committee
recommended unanimously that the position be offered to Brian
Harmon form Harrisburg, OR. Motion made by Councilman Matthews,
second by Councilman Wolff to ratify the hiring. MOTION CARRIED.
A) Resolution No. 409-2000. A
Resolution Approving Accounts Payable For Payment. The council
recommends that all accounts shown be paid. Motion made by Councilman
Matthews, second by Councilwoman Robinson to approve Resolution
No 409-2000. MOTION CARRIED.
Manager Breazeale stated that the
Heppner Coordinating Council meets Tuesday morning at 7:30am
at the Heppner Ranger District conference room. The agenda will
be to discuss future meetings and topics open for discussion.
Discussions from the last meeting included the subject of the
City Parks trees. Additionally, Janet Greenup reported on the
status of Morrow Co. dairies and how they will affect our area.
Discussion by NRCS on weed control on range property. The CRP
sign ups went well, with 11,000 acres available for the program
and 14,000 acres bid in. The interest in direct seeding is increasing.
There is still a certain amount of skepticism from farmers used
to employing more traditional farming methods. The advantages
of direct seeding include reducing water runoff and soil erosion.
Dan Brosnan reported on the Morrow County Farm Museum. Doris
Brosnan presented information on HEDC .
C) Speed Zone Reduction - N Highway
207/74, Speed Zone Change Hwy 74. Manager Breazeale discussed
the recent speed zone changes made by the Department of Transportation.
A reduction from 55mph to 45mph was made north of town on highway
74 by the Pettyjohn building. There were also speed zone changes
on that section of highway 74 that runs east toward Pilot Rock.
The speed limit was increased to 55mph by the fairgrounds. The
general consensus of the Council was that this increase in speed
was dangerously close to the elementary school. Manager Breazeale
contacted the State Traffic Engineer who was not aware that a
potential hazard had been created by erecting a 55mph sign so
close to the curve at the elementary school. According to the
engineer, the State's original plans called for the start of
a 55mph speed zone at that particular location. The State Traffic
Engineer agreed to take down the new 55mph sign and conduct a
speed study of that area. Manager Breazeale explained that speed
zones were established by collecting data from all vehicles traveling
a particular area. Those speeds that ranged in the 85th percentile
would establish the new speed. Councilman Wolff questions the
opportunity to petition the State regarding an established speed.
Manager Breazeale comments that the Council could create a resolution
or motion by Council to protest the change in the new speed,
and reduce it to a safe level. Councilwoman Sly comments that
the close proximity of the elementary school, the hospital, and
the fairgrounds creates an area that is congested and creates
potential hazards. All Council members agree that the speed increase
from 25mph at the elementary school curve to the 55mph zone be
made gradually to allow for a safety net in a heavily trafficked
area. Councilman Matthews made a motion to protest to the State
to reduce the speed at the elementary school curve to 25mph and
extend it east to the city limit. Seconded by Councilman Wolff.
MOTION CARRIED.
D) City Hall/Library Meeting Summary
and Progress Report. Manger Breazeale explained that he had
met with the architect regarding the new building that would
house the City Hall/Library complex. Extensive changes had been
made to the library area, and minor changes had been made to
the city council room and administrative offices. Discussion
ensued regarding leaving the balcony as is vs. extending the
wall out to allow for more interior floor space. The estimated
cost of the structure would be approximately 1.1 million dollars.
The advantages of having the combination of a Library/City Hall
would provide a co-operative venture that would provide for significant
grant contributions. Grant projections are $800,000.00 with the
balance of the construction being paid for by City funds. The
floor space of the current library is approximately 1400 square
feet. The square footage/floor space of the new library would
be approximately 4000 ft. Manager Breazeale pointed out that
he had received a letter from the Oregon Downtown Development
Association regarding "Heppner's efforts to locate a City
Hall/Library complex in the downtown core." The ODDA goes
on to say that, "Public buildings like these are pedestrian
traffic generators for downtown. Locating an `anchor' of this
type in downtown will help strengthen the commercial district
as a one-stop place to do errands and shopping." Manager
Breazeale points out that there has been some controversy over
locating this type of facility downtown, but that there has been
very little competition from the retail sector for the same space.
Manager Breazeale also points out that the location of this type
of facility downtown would be a good starting point for a walking
tour of downtown Heppner, focusing on historical designations
as identified in the Heppner Strategic Plan. Councilwoman Hedman
stated that she is in opposition of having a two story building
downtown with City Hall upstairs. She feels that it would be
difficult for some people to access the second floor. Manager
Breazeale pointed out that there would be a drop box for payments,
and also an elevator to appropriately assist those people that
might have difficulty otherwise. City Attorney Kuhn pointed out
that the City already owns the property mentioned. To get the
square footage for both entities to do what they want to do,
the building would have to be two stories. Councilman Wolff pointed
out that two stories would be the cheapest way to build since
there would only be the cost of one foundation and one roof.
Manager Breazeale mentions that Heppner does have a limited amount
of land to build upon, and perhaps the unused ground could be
used for additional parking. The cost of remodeling the present
City Hall building would be prohibitive. Councilman Matthews
discussed what will happen to the existing Library/Museum complex.
Manager Breazeale pointed out that the City presently owns the
Library itself, the rest of the building is owned by the County.
The City could negotiate with the County for the property following
the Library relocation. City Attorney Kuhn pointed out that the
Director of the Museum had mentioned she would like to expand
the museum into that potentially available space. Mayor Jepsen
mentioned that the cost of the architectural feasibility study
had been split with Library, so there had already been savings
realized. Councilman Matthews asks if there is a target date
set for a public meeting regarding the new Library/City Hall
complex. Manager Breazeale stated that April 20, 2000 is the
target date. (This date has now been set for April 26, 2000 at
7:00 PM at the Senior Center dining room.)
E) City Council Positions Up For
Election In November. Manager Breazeale mentioned that several
of the Council members will be up for re-election and would need
to file before September. There are four positions that run concurrently.
Mayor Jepsen pointed out that these are non-partisan positions,
that must be applied for. Applications must be made by petition
and cannot be paid for. Applications must be filed by September
for the November ballot. . F) Request For Extension Of Time
For Water System Master Plan. Manager Breazeale commented
that he had received a letter from Ace Consultants requesting
a 60 day extension for compiling data for the Water System Supply
Feasibility Study. Ace Consultants, Inc. states six reasons for
the extension and states that their staff is in the process of
gathering additional data needed for the study. The extension
will have to be approved by OECDD since they are providing the
grant monies. Motion made by Councilman Wolff to extend the time
for the study, seconded by Councilwoman Robinson. MOTION CARRIED.
G) Resolution 410-2000. To Authorize
The Increase Of The Current Credit Limit On The Visa Credit Card
Account With The Bank Of Eastern Oregon. Manager Breazeale
explained that the present credit limit is $5000.00. The Bank
has issued a group card that all the City employees use. With
this in mind, there are times that the present limit is not adequate.
The cards are used not only for travel and those related expenses,
but for emergency vehicle repairs and purchasing supplies. Manager
Breazeale pointed out that the bill is paid on a monthly basis
so there would not be a large interest expense. All City employees
are bonded, reducing risk of any potential fraud. The City previously
had an account with Wells Fargo Bank which will be cancelled.
Motion made by Councilman Matthews to approve Resolution 410-2000,
seconded by Councilman Van Cleve. MOTION CARRIED.
A) St. Patrick's Senior Center
Loan Extension. City Attorney Kuhn offered further explanation
of the previously discussed terms for Council re-election. Attorney
Kuhn also discussed the proposal to renovate the Senior Center.
The Bank of Eastern Oregon will loan the Housing Authority the
$150,000.00 requested using the property as collateral. In order
to keep the loan payments reduced, the original loan will be
amortized out and coupled with the new loan payments. The approval
of this resolution would authorize Manager Breazeale to renegotiate
the City's loan with the Bank and extend it for another 20 year
term. There is presently 10 years left on the existing loan.
The combination of the two loans, (the existing loan and the
new loan,) would create a payment that is slightly less than
the present payment. Councilman Wolff moved to approve Resolution
No. 411-2000 A Resolution of the City of Heppner, Morrow County,
Oregon Authorizing Extension of Loan Agreements, and Related
Documents. A second was provided by Councilwoman Sly. MOTION
CARRIED.
B) Dave Fowler Easement. City
Attorney Kuhn explained that any successive owners of the property
would be tied to the easement rules established by the Morrow
County Planning Department. The city could revoke the use of
the right-of-way at it's discretion. Councilwoman Robinson moved
to allow the Dave Fowler easement. The motion was seconded by
Councilman Matthews. MOTION CARRIED.
9. COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE MAYOR/CITY
COUNCILORS A) Appointment of Planning Commission
Member. Mayor Jepsen recommended Ray Grace be appointed for
the vacant position. Mr. Grace was brought in as a chief engineer
when Kinzua Corporation built their plywood mill. Mr. Grace is
extensively traveled and is very familiar with building practices
and requirements involving the permitting process. Motion by
Councilman Wolff to accept the recommendation that Ray Grace
fill the Planning Commission position. Motion seconded by Councilwoman
Hedman. MOTION CARRIED.
B) Beautification Commission.
Councilwoman Sly mentioned that Kay Proctor had joined the group
as of their last meeting. The group consists of Public Works
Director Winters, City Manager Breazeale, John Edmundson, Jerri
Sly, Kay Proctor and Mayor Jepsen. The group discussed code enforcement
relating to properties creating an eyesore or sanitation problems.
Manager Breazeale explained that the Commission has divided the
City into four sectors. Each Commissioner taking a sector and
physically viewing areas that they would recommend proactive
action be taken to set standards regarding Nuisance Abatement,
and the general appearance of our City. Councilwoman Sly also
noted that Peggy Connor has children that gather each Wednesday
for Bible Study. Ms. Connors' children weeded the island by Memorial
Park as a community service
C) Heppner Housing Authority.
Mayor Jepsen reported that the financing for the St. Patrick's
Senior Center and Apartments had already been discussed. Beyond
that, he stated that the Housing Authority was looking to fill
the vacant apartments. Currently there were five vacancies. Tours
are being given of the apartments every Wednesday by Marian Murchison,
apartment manager. The tours have stimulated a lot of interest
in the apartments with many taking the tour reporting that they
didn't know the apartments were as nice as they are. A drawing
for a centerpiece is held after each tour with one of the participants
taking home the arrangement.
Returning from executive session
at 9:15 PM Councilor Tom Wolff made a motion to approve the contract
with Unocal for the purchase of real property for $100 with the
stipulation that the venue be changed to Oregon and that the
requirement for specific remedial actions by the City be dropped
from the contract. Second was supplied by Councilor Skip Matthews.
MOTION CARRIED.
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