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MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
MEETING FOR MAY 8, 2000 A) Call to Order. Mayor Jepsen
called the meeting to order at 7:03 P.M.
B) Pledge of Allegiance. Mayor
Jepsen led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
C) Announcements. Mayor Jepsen
welcomed all to the Council Meeting. Manager Breazeale
commented on the report he had prepared reflecting
the number of times the City's Web Page had been accessed.
He was pleased to report that the community's
interest was on the increase, judging by the number of bytes/access
numbers summarized. He was pleased to note that there had been
interest in the St. Pat's Senior Center page, and also in the
HEDC'S posted page sharing information regarding ELESCO'S marketing
survey of the Willow Creek Valley.
D) Approval of the Minutes from
the April 10, 2000 Council Meting. Mayor Jepsen asked
if there were any corrections to the minutes. Chief Rathbun noted
that he would like clarification of the fact (pg. 8, par. 2G)
that he was at a business conference, not on vacation. Councilman
Wolff also offered a correction to (pg. 8, F) He noted that each
proponent has paid $250.00 each for a total of $500.00. Councilwoman
Robinson moved that the minutes be adopted as corrected, seconded
by Councilwoman Sly. MOTION CARRIED. Abstained: Councilwoman
Hedman.
E) Report from the Planning Commission.
Howard Gilliam noted that there was no report.
F) Correspondence. Manager
Breazeale noted that he had received a letter from the Willow
Creek Baptist Church requesting the use of the city park for
their Vacation Bible School the week of June 26-30, from 8:15
a.m. to 12:30 p.m. All council members gave their consensus for
allowing the park to be used for Bible School.
Manager Breazeale commented that
the City had received a final payment from the "Alsea
Veneer" lawsuit Settlement Administrator (regarding
businesses insured by SAIF Corporation.) in the amount of $2929.58.
The funds will be held for the next budget.
The next item of correspondence was
a letter from the Department Of The Army explaining operations
at the depot.
The last item of correspondence was
a letter from the Department of Transportation explaining the
speed zone changes made south of Quaid Street to Fairview Way
east. Manager Breazeale noted that a letter had been sent to
the Department of Transportation thanking them for their quick
response in the matter. Mayor Jepsen noted that he felt the speed
changes on Highway 74 by Riverside Drive were effective also.
2. COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC.
A) Oral communications from the
public not on the agenda. Mayor Jepsen asked if anyone
present in the audience wished to come forward at this time.
There was no communication from the public.
3. REQUEST FOR DISABLED PARKING
SPACE Manager Breazeale explained that
the City had received a request from the Episcopal and Methodist
Churches requesting a disabled parking space to be placed on
Church Street. The spot would be shared by both the Methodist
and Episcopal Churches. Their was brief discussion questioning
the idea of one shared spot or several spots since there was
only parallel parking available. Mr. Gilliam commented that he
could only speak for the Episcopal Church. The area that they
were requesting was an unloading zone close to a power pole where
no curb was located. Actual disabled parking spaces would be
located in the church parking lot. Manager Breazeale clarified
that a loading zone, not a parking space was the more appropriate
solution. There would be a time limit established for parking
in the loading zone. There was some additional discussion regarding
who would cover the costs involved. The discussion was tabled
until more information could be obtained, and the request(s)
clarified.
4. REQUEST FOR ANIMAL PERMIT.
A) Request from Emily and Megan Unruh
for an Animal Permit at 329 E. Linden Way for 6 rabbits, 4 pigs,
10 hens and 2 roosters. The Unruh girls explained that they had
previously obtained a permit, but now their flock had increased,
and they were seeking approval for a larger number of animals.
They reported that they had not received any complaints from
their neighbors. Mr. Unruh explained that the animals were for
4-H projects. Councilwoman Robinson moved that the permits be
granted for another year providing there were no complaints from
the neighbors. Seconded by Councilman Wolff. MOTION CARRIED.
B) Request from Dave Pranger for
Animal Permit at 565 Minor Street for four horses. Mr. Pranger
was not present to comment. The permit was up for renewal only,
the number of horses had not increased. Motion made by Councilwoman
Sly to approve the permit renewal. Seconded by Councilman VanCleave.
MOTION CARRIED. Attorney Kuhn explained that not obtaining a
permit was a Class D Infraction carrying up to a $50.00 per day
fine. Chief Rathbun explained that the permit could be revoked
if legitimate complaints were made. Manager Breazeale explained
that normally livestock/animals raised for consumption were allowed
within the city limits. Since this was a rural area, exceptions
were made by permit. (Cats and Dogs being exempt.) The Council
members discussed the fact that lot size and location was also
a deciding factor, and the City ultimately had the right to approve
or deny animal permits.
5. PUBLIC HEARINGS. A) Abatement of Nuisance at 135 East
Quaid Street, Map 2S 26 26CC, Tax Lot 5400. Chief Rathbun presented
a video tape of the property owned by Tom Wicklund. The tape
included both "before" and "after" shots.
Chief Rathbun noted that Mr. Wicklund had done some clean up,
but that there was still too much stuff laying around that was
visible from the street.
B) Abatement of Nuisance at 165 East
Quaid Street, Map 2S 26 26CC, Tax Lot 5300. Chief Rathbun presented
a video tape of the property occupied by the Madderns. The tape
included both "before" and "after" shots.
Chief Rathbun noted that the front porch had been cleaned up,
but that the grass was becoming dangerously high potentially
creating a fire hazard.
C) Abatement of Nuisance at 175 East
Quaid Street, Map 2S 26 26CC, Tax Lot 5200. Chief Rathbun presented
a video tape of the property owned by David Hanna. The tape included
both "before" and "after" shots. Chief Rathbun
noted that the old appliance dumped in the front of the house
had been removed, and that he felt the property had been sufficiently
cleaned up.
Mayor Jepsen asked if there was anyone
present in the audience that would like to comment on any of
the properties in question. No one came forward. Mayor Jepsen
noted such, and declared the Public Hearing closed. Chief Rathbun
commented that all parties of said properties had received letters
requesting clean up within 30 days. Sixty days has passed since
the original requests were made.
6. NUISANCE ABATEMENT ACTION.
A) Resolution No. 414, A Resolution
Declaring Certain Property a Nuisance and Ordering Cleanup of
Property at 135 East Quaid Street. Councilman Wolff moved that
Resolution No. 414 be approved, and the Wicklunds be sent another
notice to clean up the remaining debris. Chief Rathbun stated
that the letter would give the above mentioned parties (another)
30 days to clean up their properties or the City would clean
up for them. Seconded by Councilman VanCleave. MOTION CARRIED.
B) Resolution No. 415, A Resolution
Declaring Certain Property a Nuisance and Ordering Cleanup of
Property at 165 East Quaid Street. Mayor Jepsen noted that this
property was owned by Keith Lewis, but occupied by the Madderns.
Chief Rathbun noted that Mr. Lewis should also have received
a letter requesting clean up at the same time the tenants did.
Councilman Wolff moved that Resolution No. 415 be approved, and
both Mr. Lewis and the Madderns both be sent another 30 day notice
to clean up their property. Seconded by Councilman VanCleave.
MOTION CARRIED.
C) Resolution No. ___, A Resolution
Declaring Certain Property a Nuisance and Ordering Cleanup of
Property at 175 East Quaid Street. Mayor Jepsen noted that the
recommendation of the Police Chief was "No further action
necessary."
7. COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE CHIEF
OF POLICE. A) Code Enforcement. Chief
Rathbun commented that two cars had been towed, and perhaps another
would be towed, as the neighboring tenant had been evicted from
his premises.
B) Activity Report. Mayor
Jepsen noted that enclosed in the Council's information packet
was the Police Chief's Activity Report. Councilman Wolff commented
that he had heard that the incident with one of the City's police
officers had been resolved. Chief Rathbun noted that the State
Police had not yet completed their investigation.
C) Police Commission - Next
Meeting - May 26, 2000.
8. COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC
WORKS DIRECTOR. A) Activity Report. Director
Winters commented on the leak located at South Court Street.
He explained that a 12" main had come apart. The parts were
not readily available, so water was diverted from the reservoir
to the hospital so they would not be without. Some of the residences
located on Rock Street did experience low pressure. The necessary
repairs were made the next day. Unfortunately the other side
of the main blew and had to be repaired as well. Public Works
Director Winters explained that the main was held together with
mega lugs. The thrust block originally installed by the contractor
was too small allowing too much movement of the pipes. Additional
thrust block was poured and both sides of the main secured with
additional restraints. The street will be repaired with additional
gravel bringing up the grade. Councilwoman Hedman commented that
there were areas of the City that did not have adequate water
pressure. Director Winters explained that some of the City's
water lines were "dead end" lines. An 8" main
had been extended out to Winkenson Arena, but the City had to
receive easements from the State Highway Department to continue
on with the line installation to make the loop connection. Director
Winters also explained that the City was only required to provide
25 lb. of pressure. There was some discussion as to why there
is presently more air in the water lines. Director Winters explained
that well #2 had been utilized, and for whatever reason this
particular well aerated the water. The well has been examined
by engineers, and measures taken to correct the occurrence. There
was nothing wrong with the water, but it did appear to look milky
at times. Councilwoman Sly commented that this was another good
reason to have a public newsletter explaining some of the particulars
of city business.
B) Utilities Commission Meeting
- Next Meeting - May 18, 2000.
C) Parks and Lands Commission
Meeting - Next Meeting - May 22, 2000.
9. COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE FIRE
CHIEF. A) Resolution No. 416, A Resolution
Approving Accounts Payable
for Payment. Councilman Wolff questioned a $1000.00 expense
for Engineered Control Products Incorporated. Manager Breazeale
explained that the device/product was a chlorinator, used to
disinfect the effluent at the at the sewage treatment plant.
Councilman Wolff also questioned an expense for a telemetry system.
The expense was for the repair of one of the City's communication
devices. There were no other questions regarding the Accounts
Payable. Councilwoman Sly made a motion to pay the Accounts as
submitted. Seconded by Councilwoman Robinson. MOTION CARRIED.
B) Heppner Coordinating Council
- Oral Report. Manager Breazeale commented that Jill Miles,
the Regional Development Officer, from OECDD (Oregon Economic
Community Development Department,) and Martin Davis from GEODC
(Greater Eastern Oregon Development Corporation,) a non- profit
agency, were present to supply information regarding gap financing
and economic development activities. Lisa Breckenridge is trying
to secure the development of good telecommunications for rural
areas. All of Eastern Oregon is presently under served by the
telecommunications industry. Business retention was also discussed.
Manager Breazeale explained that there was grant money available,
but applying for grants was quite time consuming. GEODC may fill
a role by providing grant information and grant writing for communities
that did not have the staff to do so. Manager Breazeale noted
that Suzanne Jepsen gave an updated report on WIC VAL.
There is a meeting scheduled for
May 9th. Items of discussion will be the proposed closure of
the Morrow County Museum, and funding/volunteers for their staffing.
There will also be discussion of the proposed closure of the
County G.I.S. System (Geographic Information System.) The G.I.S.
has the computer capability to draw maps with attached information,
referencing the information onto a data base. The County is losing
their G.I.S. operator due to decreased funding.
C) Resolution No. 417, A Resolution
Amending Resolution No. 413-00 Establishing Pay Ranges
and Policy for Employee Compensation for Fiscal Year 2000-2001.
Manager Breazeale noted that there
had been some errors in figures on the original EXHIBIT "A",
Resolution 413. The first error, was in the base salary stated
for Police Officer. A second discrepancy, in the base pay for
Utility Worker II was discovered upon the recent hiring of the
new Utility Worker I. Manager Breazeale pointed out that their
new hire's beginning salary was $1850.00, while Randy Sample's
present (base) salary at $1686.00 was well below that. The job
descriptions are essentially the same for both Utility Worker
I and Utility Worker II. Public Works Director David Winters
sent a letter to the City Council requesting that Mr. Sample's
base salary be increased to $1850.00 effective May 1, 2000.
Motion made by Councilman VanCleave
to approve Resolution 417. Seconded by Councilman Wolff. MOTION
CARRIED.
Motion made by Councilwoman Robinson
to approve the request for pay increase/base salary increase
for Randy Sample from $1686.00 to $1850.00, effective April 1,
2000. Seconded by Councilwoman Sly. MOTION CARRIED.
D) Resolution No. 418, A Resolution
Extending the City of Heppner's Workers Compensation Coverage
to Cover Volunteers of the City of Heppner. Manager
Breazeale explained that the City Council had previously passed
a Resolution to cover City volunteers with Worker's Compensation
Insurance. He also explained that the insurance company was not
satisfied with that alone. They requested that the City list
each individual volunteer, the number of hours expected to work,
and the level of the work. The insurance company has requested
that this resolution be passed clarifying the above information.
Attorney Kuhn explained that it was difficult to employ volunteers
without covering them with insurance. There was some general
discussion regarding record keeping for volunteer hours worked.
Estimates are drawn from these records for budgeting purposes.
Councilman Wolff made the motion to approve Resolution 418. Seconded
by Councilwoman Robinson. MOTION CARRIED.
E) YARD OF THE MONTH RECOGNITION.
Manager Breazeale explained that there was a five month program,
sponsored by the Garden Club, recognizing homeowners that have
taken exceptional care of their yard. A request was made, by
the Garden Club, to display a poster in City Hall recognizing
their efforts. Another request was made for the Mayor to send
a letter of recognition to the Yard of the Month winner. The
Garden Club requested that perhaps a $5.00 discount be given
toward the winner's water bill. Councilman Wolff commented that
he was in favor of the poster and letter of recognition, but
not of the water bill reduction gift. He explained that as a
municipality he did not feel the latter was appropriate. All
Council members conceded that the poster and letter of recommendation
were appropriate and beneficial.
11. COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE CITY
ATTORNEY. A) Right of Way Vacation - Morgan
Street. B) Right of Way Vacation - Between
Thompson and Bisbee Streets. Attorney Kuhn decided to combine
the two requests. He outlined as a procedure: 1) To have the
landowner who is requesting the vacation initiate the process.
The landowner requesting the vacation would be required to collect
consent for the vacation petition from ¾'s of the affected
land owners, those folks that own property 200 feet on either
side of the vacated roadway, and 400 feet from the ends of the
vacated portion, and then cover property owners 200 feet on each
side of that. 2) The City Council can also do a vacation on its
own initiative. That requires the passage of an ordinance, and
some special notice requirements. The landowners consent process
could be omitted. Attorney Kuhn's recommendation was for the
second option to be utilized. Attorney Kuhn volunteered to donate
his time in the Museum's behalf regarding the Morgan Street vacation.
Attorney Kuhn noted that the Museum would have to pay for the
publication costs to post the notice in the newspaper. He will
have a couple of ordinances ready (for the vacations,) in time
for the next City Council Meeting. Attorney Khun mentioned that
an easement(s) would need to be obtained for the sewer line running
the length between Rock Street and Gilmore Street, (in the vacation
request for Thompson and Bisbee Streets.) The Council was in
agreement with Attorney Kuhn.
12. COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE MAYOR/CITY
COUNCIL MEMBERS. A) Beautification Commission -
April 13, 2000 - Next Meeting - May 11, 2000. There
were no comments regarding the Beautification Commission Meeting.
B) Heppner Housing Authority -
Mayor Jepsen, Chairman. Mayor Jepsen reported that the Heppner
Housing Authority had been working with the Bank of Eastern Oregon
to approve a loan of $150,000.00 for renovation of the St. Patrick's
Apartments. The loan has been approved. Mayor Jepsen noted that
it would take approximately one year to make the necessary repairs.
The money will go into next years budget. Hopefully the renovations
will entice 100% occupancy. There are presently two vacancies.
The new loan will be in combination with the existing loan, increasing
the payoff time by ten years. The monthly payment will be approximately
$30.00 less than the present monthly payment. Included in the
project will be a new floor in the dining hall, landscaping of
the parking lot, installation of power doors on the exterior,
new carpets, new paint, and easier door closures on the apartment
doors. The remainder of the money will be used to renovate existing
apartments as they become vacant. Mayor Jepsen mentioned that
there is a plan to install air conditioning units in individual
apartments. Councilwoman Hedman voiced concern regarding the
preservation of appearances for the Historic Designation. Manager
Breazeale commented that it was important to recognize the guidelines
maintaining the designation, but that the building was very old,
and needed to be maintained appropriately, allowing for the comfort
of its occupants, and its energy efficiency, therefore some concessions
may need to be made.
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