March 27, 2001

 

The Board of Commissioners of the City of Lawrence met in regular session at 6:35 p.m., in the City Commission Chambers in City Hall with Mayor Henry presiding and members Dunfield, Hodges and Kennedy present.  Rundle was absent.  

With Commission approval, Mayor Henry proclaimed March 26 – 30, 2001 as “Tree City USA Week” and Friday March 30, 2001 as “Arbor Day”; the month of April 5 – 7, 2001, as “Lawrence Free State High School Symphonic Band Weekend”; and the month of April 2001 as “Mathematics Awareness Month.”

Mike Wildgen, City Manager, requested the City Commission clarify the minutes of March 13, 2001 regarding the signage for the Riverfront Project.  The minutes were not specifically clear on the “R” logo on the Main Tower.  The applicant requested the large “R” logo be on all four (4) sides of the tower.  Wildgen asked if the City Commission concurred with that concept.

The City Commission concurred to approve the “R” logo on all four (4) sides of the Main Tower with no neon signage for the Riverfront Project.  The minutes of the March 13, 2001 meeting should be amended to reflect the large “R” logo to be on all four (4) sides of the Main Tower.

Moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to amend the City Commission meeting minutes of March 13, 2001 to clarify the “R” logo to be on all four (4) sides of the Main Tower with no neon signage.  Motion carried unanimously.           

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to approve the City Commission meeting minutes of March 13, 2001 as amended.  Motion carried unanimously.

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to receive the Lawrence-Douglas County Housing Authority Board meeting minutes of January 23, 2001; the Mental Health Board meeting minutes of November 28, 2000, December 19, 2000 and January 30, 2001; the Public Health Board meeting minutes of January 22, 2001; the Public Transit Advisory Committee meeting minutes of February 20, 2001; the Recycling and Resources Conservation Advisory Board meeting minutes of March 13, 2001; the Historic Resources Commission meeting minutes of    HAND Advisory Committee meeting minutes of February 8, 2001; Motion carried unanimously.

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to approve claims in the amount of $1,861,644.83 and payroll from March 11, 2001 to March 24, 2001 in the amount of $1,133,980.17.  Motion carried unanimously.

Kennedy asked for additional information and discussion on the Drinking Establishment Licenses for the 508 Club and Bada Bing.

Ted Boyle, 310 Elm, said the situation at 508 Club was out of control.  The issues the neighborhood faced a year ago continue to be a problem.  They included trash, noise and inadequate security of the business.  There were large crowds gathering around the business from 1:00 to 3:00 a.m. 

Kelly Boyle Wolfe, 523 Elm, said trash, noise and unruly people continue to be a problem.  The club has not taken the City Commission and their actions seriously.  She encouraged the City Commission to take appropriate action and have the business comply.

Jessie Del Campo, Owner, said there were no people around the club at 3:00 a.m.  The latest was 2:00 p.m. when they closed.   He saw significant improvement in control around the club.  His business was zoned appropriately and should be able to operate at that location.  Del Campo said his staff collected trash every night and he picked up additional trash in the morning.  There were other businesses generating liter in the area.  He did not want his staff going on private property because of potential problems. 

Kennedy asked if a private security firm had been hired and what amount of time they spent at the club.

Del Campo said he gave the City a copy of the contract with Mil-Spec to provide security for his business.  He was not completely aware of the amount of time they spent at the site every night.  He has provided to staff invoices.  Del Campo said the Police Department wait outside in the Downtown area and do not do the same for his business. 

Kennedy said several bars in the Downtown area took the initiative to work together to cleanup their area.  He suggested the 508 Club do the same in the North Lawrence area.  He suggested Del Campo work with the North Lawrence Improvement Association to address the problems.

Hodges said this club appeared to be a problem every spring and needed to be resolved once and for all.

Moved by Kennedy, seconded by Hodges, to defer for one (1) week approval of the Drinking Establishment License for the 508 Club located at 508 Locust to give time for the owner to meet with the neighborhood.  Motion carried unanimously.

Kennedy asked for additional information on licensing Bada Bing located at 913 North 2^nd.

David Corliss, Assistant City Manager, said apparently the business was changing their business.  Corliss said, by law, a Drinking Establishment License would prohibit nudity. 

Hodges asked if the location of Bada Bing conformed to the Zoning Ordinances.

Corliss said “yes.”  They would also needed to comply with the neighborhood Nuisance Ordinances.

Dunfield said since the establishment was in a strip mall not close to residential property, that provision seemed somewhat mute.

Corliss agreed.

Hodges asked if the Ordinances controlling nudity address contact between employees and customers.

Corliss said staff would research that subject.

Hodges asked to have this license reviewed in three (3) months.

Moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to approve the Drinking Establishment License for Bada Bing located at 913 North 2^nd.  Motion carried unanimously.

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to approve the Drinking Establishment License for PaPa Keno’s Pizzeria, 1035 Massachusetts (Contingent Upon State License); Lou Zeana’s Bayou Grill, 3300 West 15^th; Columbus Club, 2206 East 23^rd; Chili’s of Kansas, 2319 Iowa; the Cereal Malt Beverage Licenses for Hillcrest Amoco, 914 Iowa (Contingent Upon Departmental Approval); and, Louisiana Amoco, 2301 Louisiana (Contingent Upon State License). Motion carried unanimously.

The City Commission reviewed the bids for a container delivery truck for the Public Works Department.  The bids were:

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to award the bid to American Equipment, Alternate 2 in the amount of $42,427.00 plus an optional toolbox and trailer attachment for $675.00 for a total bid of $43,102.00.   Motion carried unanimously.

The City Commission reviewed the bids for two (2) hook lift trucks for the Public Works Department.  The bids were:

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to award the bid to Roy Conley & Co, Option 2 for $98,918.00 and rejecting Roy Conley & Co., Option 1 and alternate option 1 bids because of less mechanical problems with the upgraded engine and transmission.  Motion carried unanimously.

The City Commission reviewed the bids for a rear load refuse truck for the Public Works Department.  The bids were:

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to award the bid to Roy Conley & Co. Alternate bid with the Pak-Mor body in the amount of $110,077.00 because they perform well and repair cost have been less and rejecting Roy Conley & Co. low bid due to the high cost of maintenance on the Loadmaster body in the past.   Motion carried unanimously.

The City Commission reviewed the bids for Crossgate Drive, Clinton Parkway to 24^th Street, street, storm sewer, and traffic signal improvements for the Public Works Department.  The bids were:

 

 

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to award the bid to R.D. Johnson in the amount of $395,971.64.   Motion carried

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to set a bid date of April 10, 2001 for 2001 Overlay and Curb Repair Program, Phase 2.  Motion carried unanimously.

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to award the sole bid for computer hardware and software for the Indoor Aquatic Center to Vermont Systems, Inc., for $30,984.00.  Motion carried unanimously.

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to approve the soles source purchase and installation of four (4) structures for the Lawrence Aquatic Center to Tensile Designs International in the amount not to exceed $14,172.25. Motion carried unanimously.

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to place on first reading Ordinance No. 7341, annexing (A-12-19-00) approximately 10.438 acres of land generally located south and east of Summerfield Way.  Motion carried unanimously.        (1)

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to place on first reading Ordinance No. 7342, rezoning (Z-10-44-00) approximately 12.54 acres of City owned property north of Oak Hill Cemetery from A (Agricultural District) and I-3 (Heavy Industrial District) to RS-1 (Single-Family Residence District).  Motion carried unanimously.     (2)

Ordinance No. 7338, annexing (A-01-01-01) approximately 20 acres, located North of Peterson Road, between Folks Road and Queens Road was read a second time.

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to adopt the ordinance.  Aye:  Dunfield, Henry, Hodges and Kennedy.   Nay: None.  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                                                                                   (3)

Ordinance No. 7340, amending section 1-204 of the Code of the City of Lawrence, Kansas, establishing the quorum at four (4) Commissioners for the conduct of City Commission business was read a second time.

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to adopt the ordinance.  Aye:  Dunfield, Henry, Hodges and Kennedy.   Nay: None.  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                                                                                   (4)

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to adopt Resolution No. 6287, establishing a public hearing date for the proposed benefit district for the traffic signal improvement and related geometric improvements at Clinton Parkway and Hawthorne/Hartford.  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                    (5)

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to adopt Resolution No. 6288, establishing a public hearing date for the proposed benefit district for Crossgate, Clinton Parkway to 24^th Place, including a roundabout at 24^th Place.  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                                                                                     (6)

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to adopt Resolution No. 6289, authorizing the sale of approximately $2,840,000.00 of General Obligation Bonds, Series 2001-A and approximately $10,095,000.00 of General Obligation Bonds/Temporary Notes, Series 2000-I.  Aye:  Dunfield, Henry, Hodges and Kennedy.  Nay: None.  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                                             (7)

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to adopt Resolution No. 6290, establishing a new benefit district for the proposed improvement of Inverness from Clinton Parkway to 24^th Place, including a roundabout at 24^th Place.  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                                                                  (8)

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to adopt Resolution No. 6291, declaring the necessity of condemnation of public pedestrian easements for the improvement of 24^th Place and Inverness.  Motion carried unanimously.       (9)

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to adopt Resolution No. 6292, authorizing additional General Obligation Bond Authority for the improvement of Michigan Street, 7^th to 9^th Street, in the amount of $100,000.00.  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                                                                                   (10)

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to adopt Resolution No. 6293, authorizing additional General Obligation Bond Authority for the improvement of Monterey Way, 15^th to Harvard, in the amount of $12,000.00.  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                                                                                       (11)

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to adopt Resolution No. 6294, authorizing General Obligation Bond Authority for improvements and repairs to City Buildings in the amount of $350,000.00 the improvements include Fire/Medical Facilities, Airport Terminal Roof and the Public Works Facility at 11^th and Haskell.  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                                                                                 (12)

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to authorize the Mayor to execute an agreement with KDOT for the 2001 KLINK Resurfacing Project on 23^rd Street, Iowa to Louisiana, and on Iowa, 31^st to 34^th Street with the State participating in fifty percent (50%) of the cost of this project up to a maximum of $200,000.00.  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                                                         (13)

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to approve the site plan (SP-01-07-2001) for retail/office space located at 705-709 Massachusetts, subject to the following conditions:

1.                  A site Plan Performance Agreement be executed; (Per Section 20-1433)

2.                  Completion of the Historic Resources Commission conditions;

3.                  Approval of Photometric Plan;

4.                  Revision of the Site Plan to include: (Per Planning Department)

a.                  Dimensions of the parking spaces behind the building;

b.                  Notation of the aisle way between parking space No. 4 and No. 5 as “no parking”;

c.                  Notation that if brick work along Massachusetts Street is damaged the property owner must repair per City Engineer approval;

d.                  The impervious surface numbers should be rounded to the nearest foot;

e.                  Notation that the existing trees must be protected during construction and access for maintenance must be provided during construction; and,

f.                    Correction of Gross Square Footage numbers.       

Motion carried unanimously.                                                                                                         (14)

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to approve a one (1) year extension for the site plan (SP-3-17-00) for Antioch Townhomes and Office, which is located on the west side of Iowa approximately 200’ south of Harvard.  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                                                                        (15) 

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to concur with the Planning Commission’s recommendations to adopt the findings of fact and approve the request for rezoning (Z-11-48-00) of approximately 14.14 acres from VC (Valley Channel) to M-2 (General Industrial District), property generally located north of the Kaw Water Treatment Plant, West 2^nd and Illinois Street; and, direct staff to prepare the appropriate ordinance.  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                                        (16)

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to concur with the Planning Commission’s recommendations to adopt the findings of fact and approve the request for rezoning (Z-11-50-00) of approximately 144.10 acres from RS-1 (Single-Family Residence District), A (Agricultural District) and I-3 (Heavy Industrial District) to M-2 (General Industrial District, property located at the eastern City limits at the terminus of East 8^th Street; and, direct staff to prepare the appropriate ordinance.  Motion carried unanimously.    (17)

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to concur with the Planning Commission’s recommendations to adopt the findings of fact and approve the request for rezoning (Z-01-01-01) of approximately 35.56 acres from RS-2 (Single-Family Residence District) to PRD-2 (Planned Residential Development), property located on the northwest corner of Peterson Road and Kasold Drive; and, direct staff to prepare the appropriate ordinance.  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                                     (18)

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to concur with the Planning Commission recommendations to adopt the findings of fact and approve the UPR (UPR-01-02-01) for Raintree Montessori School located at 4601 Clinton Parkway, subject to the following conditions:

1.                  A Site Plan Performance Agreement be executed; and,

2.                  Provision of a landscape plan per City staff approval.

Motion carried unanimously.                                                                                                         (19)

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to concur with the Planning Commission’s recommendation to approve a Preliminary Development Plan (PDP-01-01-01) for Westwood Hills Townhomes, property to be located ½ mile north of West 6^th, east of Queens Road and north of Wakarusa Drive (extended), subject to the following conditions:

1.                  Provision of a Revised Preliminary Development Plan depicting the following:

a.                  Provide separate lots for the PRD area and PCD area and provide a note

            stating that neither lot will have direct access to Wakarusa Drive;

b.                  Remove the wording “adjacent to Eisenhower right-of-way” from Note 15;

c.                  Correct parking totals provided in the building information and parking summary table; and,

d.                  Provide additional landscaping in the landscaping easement to buffer the presidential uses from Wakarusa Drive.         

Motion carried unanimously.                                                                                                                      (20)

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to concur with the Planning Commission’s recommendation to approve the Comprehensive Plan Text Amendment (CPA-2001-01) to Chapter 10 of the City/County Comprehensive Plan, Horizon 2020, to include additional language pertaining to Health Services.  Motion carried unanimously.

                                                                              (21) 

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to receive the amended Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) for FY2001-2006.  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                                                                                 (22)

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to authorize the change order for B.A. Green in the amount of $46,309.00 for additional work on the Centennial Park Project which included removal of a parking lot and installation of a ten foot (10’) wide walkway from the shelter site to the skateboard facility for the Parks and Recreation Department.  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                                   (23)

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to authorize the change order for B.A. Green in the amount of $10,839.00 for additional work on the Teddy Roosevelt Foundation Renovation Project in South Park which included concrete and brick work for the flower beds around the fountain for the Parks and Recreation Department.  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                                                                    (24)

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to refer the sign permit application to the Lawrence Arts Commission for recommendation of a mural to be painted on the exterior wall, north side of Cordley Elementary School located at 19^th and Vermont.  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                               (25)

Jim Lewis, Van Go’s Mobile Arts, requested the Van Go’s Mural Project be allowed to proceed until reviewed by the Lawrence Arts Commission.  He requested the City Commission approve the mural concept, and allow the sketching of the proposed mural on the wall before review by the Lawrence Arts Commission.  The Van Go’s Mobile Arts Project has hired sixteen (16) teens to design and paint a mural on the north wall of Van Go’s Headquarters at 715 New Jersey.  This was an after school and job-training program for high need fourteen (14) to eighteen (18) year olds.  The teens were paid minimum wage to create this piece of art.  He presented a rendition of the proposed design.   After considerable input from the East Lawrence Community and professional artists, this design was developed.  Lewis requested the JAMS Project be allowed to grid and pencil in the mural.  Painting would not occur until after review by the Arts Commission.

Hodges said he would like to have public input on the mural before beginning the project.  He thought it was a significant size project and there should be public input.

Henry asked what was the medium.

Lewis said it would be acrylic paint with a sealer over it.

Anna Sorenson, a JAMS participant, said this project gave her a great sense of accomplishment.  She was doing something she liked and was getting paid for it at the same time.

Dunfield said he could give approval of the project tonight without review by the Arts Commission.  He supported the City Commission approving the project subject to review by the Arts Commission.

Kennedy suggested they be allowed to proceed with the grid pattern and sketching with no painting until review by the Arts Commission.

Hodges said he would not want to give approval without more public input.

Dunfield said he did not think this would need to come back before the City Commission after review by the Arts Commission.

The City Commission concurred to defer the decision of the mural to the Arts Commission.

Moved by Kennedy, seconded by Dunfield, to approve the mural to be painted on the exterior wall of Van Go’s Headquarters at 715 New Jersey, allow the project to proceed with sketching the mural, but no painting, and refer the mural to the Lawrence Arts Commission for their review.  Aye:  Henry, Dunfield and Kennedy.  Nay:  Hodges.  Motion carried.   

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to authorize the Mayor to sign a Release of Mortgage for Violet Toyne, 1133 Pennsylvania.  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                                                                    (26)  

As part of the consent agenda, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to authorize the Mayor to sign a Release of Mortgage for Donnis Graham, 1300 New Hampshire.  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                                                         (27)  

Mike Wildgen, City Manager, informed the City Commission the Health Department  issued a health advisory because of a sewer main break at the University of Kansas.  A contractor broke a main and it affected a tributary of the Yankee Tank.                                           (28)

Wildgen informed the City Commission the Indoor Aquatic Center was on schedule and should be completed under the proposed budget by late April.                                                     (29)

Judy Billings, Lawrence Convention & Visitors Bureau, requested $8,557.28 from Visit 2020 Funds to replace current banners.  Due to weather damage, twenty (20) City of Arts banners were lost last year.  The request was $2,263.48 to reimburse the Lawrence Convention & Visitors Bureau for the replacement of those banners.  In addition, the CVB would need new “Big Blue Weekend” banners next fall because of fading.  Originally, the CVB got sponsorship dollars to cover the cost of these banners.  They were not able to generate sponsorship for the replacement.  The cost of replacement was $6,293.80.  Staff has done additional research on types of fabric and ink that would make more durable banners.  The CVB would continue to contract with Star Signs to install and refasten the banners during the hanging period.

Moved by Hodges, seconded by Kennedy, to approve the expenditure of $8,557.28 for replacement banners from the Visit 2020 Reserve Fund.  Motion carried unanimously.           (30) 

David Corliss, Assistant City Manager, presented Ordinance No. 7326, establishing a license requirement for the rental of residential structures in RS Zoning Districts, effective February 1, 2002.  The proposed Ordinance would allow the coordination of Section 8 Housing Units.  The only changes were in the recitals and text where concerns were addressed about the public safety of tenants.

James Dunn, 936 Kentucky, asked who would have access to a list of tenant to be maintained by the landlords; does the license fee for the property owner cover the cost of possible private contractors doing the inspections; and, who would have input on the residential living pamphlets to be given to each rental property tenant?

Corliss said only the Department of Neighborhood Resources would have the authority to look at the list and then only to enforce the City’s Zoning Laws.  Staff would be careful with respect to privacy issues.  The licensing fee was a licensing fee and was not an inspection fee.  There would be no additional cost to have public employees do the inspections.  At the present time, Neighborhood Resources has a pamphlet advising tenants on their rights.  In development of the new pamphlet, staff would welcome all input.  Staff was trying to determine if and how it would allow private inspections of rental property.  The City would need to ensure their qualifications and independence to inspect property. 

Dunfield suggested the pamphlet, once developed, be made available to the public for their review.

David Geyer asked the time frame for inspecting all residential properties.

Mike Wildgen, City Manager, said the time period was up to the City Commission.  At this time, there was no direction concerning the time frame for all residential property being inspected and licensed.

Moved by Dunfield, seconded by Hodges, to place on first reading Ordinance No. 7326 establishing a licensing requirement for the rental of residential structures in RS Zoning Districts effective February 1, 2002.  Motion carried unanimously.                                                        ( 31)

Terese Gorman, City Engineer, presented the staff repost on the proposed improvements to North Michigan including possible improvements to the North Michigan Bridge over the Kansas Turnpike.  In order to proceed with the North Michigan Project, the City needed to decide on how they wanted to handle the bridge.  The Kansas Turnpike Authority was not in a position at this time to participate in the reconstruction of the bridge.  The City has two (2) choices which included doing nothing to the bridge or rehabilitating the structure to match the proposed street cross section for North Michigan with sidewalks and bike lanes.  If the City was to improve the bridge, it was expected to cost the City approximately $100,000.00 more.  In addition, the City would exceed KDOT funding availability by about $98,000.00.  This would increase the City’s total cost for the project by approximately $200,000.00. 

Hodges asked how much sidewalk would $100,000.00 buy.

Gorman estimated about one (1) mile of sidewalk could be built with $100,000.00.

Dunfield asked if the City were to do nothing at this time, would the Turnpike Authority build the new bridge the way the City would want it.

Gorman thought a new bridge built by KTA would meet the City’s cross-section on Michigan.

Hodges suggested doing nothing at this time.

Moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to direct staff to do nothing to the bridge on North Michigan Street over the turnpike.  Motion carried unanimously.                                       (32)

Michael Wahlstedt, TranSystems Corporation, presented the report regarding the recommended Barker Neighborhood Traffic Calming Improvements.  Wahlstedt explained the public input into the recommendations.  The recommendations included the construction of a  median islands and alternate parking from one side of the street to the other on Barker; constructing a roundabout at the intersection of 19^th and Barker; construction of a sidewalk along Learnard Avenue; and, constructing at traffic circle at the intersection of 17^th and New Hampshire Street.

Saunny Scott, 1901 Barker Ave., commended staff and the consultants for working with the public in this process.  Scott expressed a concern about the roundabout at 19^th and Barker and its use by emergency vehicles.   She also had a concern about closing this street during construction and how emergency vehicles would access the area.  Another concern was if the roundabouts were pedestrian friendly.  If the roundabout was not a safe way of controlling vehicle and pedestrian traffic in the area, a traffic signal may be a better alternative.

  Michael Wahlstedt said emergency vehicles would be able to access the roundabout.  He did not anticipate the street to be closed during construction.  Historically, roundabouts have been safe for pedestrians.  The traffic slows down and a change of direction makes drivers more aware of their surroundings.  If traffic signals were to be constructed, additional greenspace would be needed for the left turn lanes.

Betty Alderson, 1920 Maine, supported the roundabout.  She thought statistics found them to be safe for pedestrians.  When crossing to a roundabout, only one (1) lane of traffic needed to be crossed at a time.

Dunfield was persuaded that roundabouts were safe for pedestrian and vehicle traffic.  He had a concern about being to close to the homes at 19^th and Barker, but that could be addressed during the design phase.  He was generally pleased with the proposal and thought it was going to be a good project.

Mike Wildgen, City Manager, said the City Commission should accept receipt of the report and direct staff to prepare cost estimates for the proposed improvements.

Kennedy suggested referring the alternate parking to the Traffic Safety Commission.

The City Commission concurred to direct staff to develop cost estimates for the Barker Neighborhood Traffic Calming Report and refer the alternate parking on Barker to the Traffic Safety Commission.                                                                                                                     (33)

Mike Wildgen, City Manager, presented the staff report concerning the chronology of engineering design work for the improvement of West 6^th Street, including the improvement of West 6^th Street and Wakarusa Drive.  The City was continuing to work with KDOT to meet with the property owners in the area.  It appeared at this time, KDOT would participate in the additional cost of the proposed study of the intersection.  KDOT would either pay for the study or include it in the overall project which the City would need to pay twenty percent (20%).

The City Commission concurred to receive the report.                                                   (34)  

David Corliss, Assistant City Manager, presented Ordinance No. 7339 amending Ordinance No. 7154, annexing the property tract bounded by Clinton Parkway, 27^th, Crossgate, and Inverness Drive pursuant to the City Commission’s direction at the March 6, 2001 meeting.  The Ordinance amended the construction requirements established in the original Ordinance. 

Jane Eldridge, representing the property owner, requested the City Commission adopt Ordinance No. 7339 on first and second reading.  The revised Ordinance was scheduled on the agenda for March 13, 2001, but the City Commission was not able to take any action because the Ordinance was not prepared.  She requested an emergency first and second reading of the Ordinance because it would allow building permits for housing developments to be issued as soon as April 1, 2001.  She thought that was the intent of the agreement between the City, property owners and the City Commission.

Moved by Kennedy, seconded by Hodges, to declare an emergency and adopt on first and second reading Ordinance No. 7339, amending Ordinance No. 7154.  Aye:  Henry, Dunfield, Hodges and Kennedy.  Nay:  None.  Motion carried.                                                                            (35)

Dennis Enslinger, Historic Resources Administrator, presented the text amendments to Chapter 20 of the Code of the City of Lawrence, to establish the Urban Conservation Overlay District. 

Moved by Hodges, seconded by Kennedy, to approve the text amendments (TA-01-01-01) to Chapter 20 of the Code of the City of Lawrence, to establish the Urban Conservation Overlay District.  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                            (36)

Dennis Enslinger, Historic Resources Administrator, presented the Zoning Overlay District for Downtown Lawrence.  He presented a map showing the Overlay District.  Both the Historic Resources Commission and the Planning Commission recommended approval of the Overlay District.  The Historic Resources Commission requested two (2) wording changes to the proposed Downtown Design Guidelines which the City Commission should review and discussed.  The proposed wording changes under “Review Principles” read: “It is understood that a project might not meet every guideline in order to conform to the documents intent.”  In the statement under “Parking Garages”, the Historic Resources Commission recommended the statement read: “Parking structure facades should be designed to be compatible with neighboring buildings.

Jeremy Douglas, Director, Downtown Lawrence Association, supported the proposed guidelines.

Moved by Kennedy, seconded by Hodges, to concur with the recommendations of the Historic Resources Commission and use their proposed wording for review principles to include “It is understood that a project might not meet every guideline in order to conform to the documents intent.”  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                                                   (37)

Moved by Hodges, seconded by Kennedy, to concur with the Historic Resources Commission’s suggested wording for review of Parking Structures to read: “Parking structure facades should be designed to be compatible with neighboring buildings.”  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                                                                                 (38)   

Moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to approve the zoning (Z-01-03-01) overlay district for Downtown Lawrence and direct staff to prepare an Ordinance for placement on a future agenda.  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                    (39) 

Julie Wyatt, Environmental Inspector, presented the staff report on the status of the rehabilitation of 1201 East 13^th Street.  The property was declared unsafe and dangerous by the City Commission on August 8, 2000.  At that time, the City Commission gave the property owner until November 1, 2000 to bring the exterior of the property into compliance.  On February 13, 2001, the City Commission allowed the owner thirty (30) additional days to complete the foundation repairs.  The City Commission requested at the end of the thirty (30) days that the owner submit a repair schedule.  She recently inspected the property and presented pictures of the current status.  The foundation work was complete with the exception of the upper portion of the east wall that was scheduled to be completed within the next few days.  Wyatt also presented a repair schedule submitted by the owner.  The total completion date was identified as November 15, 2001.

Scuyler Lister, the owner, said the foundation work would be completed in the near future probably within the next several days. 

Hodges asked if the owner was comfortable with the proposed schedule.

Lister said it was more realistic than the previous time schedule which allowed ninety (90) days.  He thought everyone in the neighborhood was pleased with his work.

Dunfield said it appeared the concerns about debris and security of the structure would be addressed by May 1, 2001 and the outside finished by the end of June which was a major concern. 

Kennedy did not think the time schedule was appropriate.  He thought it was too long.  He thought the exterior work needed to be done more quickly.  This project was an embarrassment to the City. 

Lister said April was a busy time for him because of his business and he would need the time identified in the schedule to complete the project.

Henry suggested more detail in the time frame.  He thought the City Commission needed an updated schedule with specific deadlines.  He thought the rehabilitation should take place more quickly. 

Lister said he could not commit to the project being completed more quickly.    

Kennedy wanted a more detailed schedule for completion and a report in thirty (30) days as to its status.

The City Commission concurred to accept the report and direct the owner to prepare a more detailed time frame for the completion of the project and an update report in thirty (30) days.                                                                                                                                                     (40)

Chris Stewart, Assistant Utility Director for Water Operations, presented the report on the status of the Clinton Water Plant Expansion Project.  The City has completed interviews with contractors and selected CAS Construction as the Construction Manager.  The specifications for equipment were completed and the City would be receiving bids on the early equipment packages in the near future.  At the present time staff was working on the Basis of Design Report and the Guaranteed Maximum Price for construction with CAS Construction . 

Mike Orth, Black & Veatch, said the next step was to have CAS Construction proceed with the preparation of the Guaranteed Maximum Price and schedule for the project.  The pricing included construction management services and bidding of project components such as insulation of the process piping, plumbing and other trades where CAS Construction had the necessary resources to complete the work.  The estimated schedule included recommendation to the City Commission for purchase of equipment by April 3, 2001; complete the Basis of Design Report and Guaranteed Maximum Price by April 27, 2001; provide a recommendation to the City Commission for a construction contract to begin in early May; and, an engineering contract with Black & Veatch to complete final design and construction phase services also in early May.  Orth said they anticipated a May start with a substantial completion date of June 1, 2002.

Moved by Hodges, seconded by Dunfield, to direct staff to proceed with development of the Guaranteed Maximum Price with CAS Construction for improvements to the Clinton Water Plant.  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                                               (41)

 Debbie Van Saun, Assistant City Manager, presented the staff report and recommendation on the drilling of a second well at the Lawrence Municipal Airport for Fire Protection Capacity.  Staff recommended a contract with Layne Western in the amount of $136,452.51 to install the second well.  The existing capacity of the distribution system of 700 gallons per minute was adequate to meet the potable water service demand for the area.

Moved by Kennedy, seconded by Hodges, to approve the contract with Layne Western and direct the City Manager to enter into the contract for the installation of a second well at the Lawrence Municipal Airport for Fire Protection in the amount of $136,452.51.  Motion carried unanimously.                                                                                                                                        (42)

Mike Wildgen, City Manager, informed the City Commission of a study session with the Planning Commission and Consultant on April 18, 2001, at 7:30 a.m. to discuss the 23^rd Street Corridor.  The Planning Commission was inviting the City and County Commission to attend that meeting.

David Barnhill said it was embarrassing the way Kennedy questioned Lister concerning his property at 1201 East 13^th Street.  Barnhill said if a Police Officer had treated a citizen that way, the City Commission would have demanded he be fired. 

Moved by Hodges, seconded by Kennedy, to adjourn at 9:10 p.m.   Motion carried unanimously.                                                                   

 

 

 

APPROVED:

                                                                        _____________________________

James R. Henry, Mayor

ATTEST:

 

___________________________________                                                                       

Raymond J. Hummert, City Clerk

COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 27, 2001

1.                  Ordinance No. 7341, 1^st Reading, Annex (A-12-19-00) 10.438 acres, S & E of Summerfield Way.

2.                  Ordinance No. 7342, 1^st Reading, Rezone (Z-10-44-00) 12.54 acres, N of Oak Hill Cemetery.

3.                   Ordinance No. 7338 – 2^nd Reading, Annex (A-01-01-01) 20 acres, N of Peterson, between Folks and Queens.

4.                  Ordinance No. 7340 – 2^nd Reading, Commission quorum set at 4.

5.                  Resolution No. 6287 – Public Hearing Date, Benefit District for traffic signal improvements, Clinton Pkwy & Hawthorne/Hartford.

6.                  Resolution No. 6288 – Public Hearing Date, Benefit District for Crossgate, Clinton Pkwy to 24^th Pl & a roundabout at 24^th Pl.

7.                  Resolution No. 6289 – Authorize Sale, GOB $2,840,000 & Temp Notes $10,095,000. 

8.                  Resolution No. 6290 –  Establish Benefit District, Inverness from Clinton Pkwy to 24^th Pl, & a roundabout at 24^th Pl.

9.                  Resolution No. 6291 – Condemnation, Public pedestrian easements for 24^th Pl & Inverness.

10.              Resolution No. 6292 – Additional GOB, Mich, 7^th to 9^th for $100,000.

11.              Resolution No. 6293 – Additional GOB, Monterey Way, 15^th to Harvard for $12,000.

12.              Resolution No. 6294 – GOB, City Bldgs for $350,000

13.              2001 Klink Resurfacing Project – 23^rd St, Iowa to Louisiana & Iowa, 31^st to 34^th.

14.              Site Plan – (SP-01-07-2001), Retail/Office Space, 705-709 Mass.

15.              Site Plan – (SP-03-17-00), 1 year extension, Antioch Townhomes & Office, W side of Iowa 200’ S of Harvard.

16.              Rezone – (Z-11-48-00), 14.14 acres, VC to M-2, N of Kaw Water Treatment Plant, W 3nd & Illinois.

17.              Rezone – (Z-11-50-00), 144.10 acres, RS-1, A & I-3 to M-2, E City Limits at terminus of E 8^th.

18.              Rezone – (Z-01-01-01) 35.56 acres, RS-2 to PRD-2, NW corner of Peterson & Kasold.

19.              User Permitted Upon Review – (UPR-01-02-01) Raintree Montessori School, 4601 Clinton Pkwy.

20.              Preliminary Development Plan – (PDP-01-01-01) Westwood Hills Townhomes, ½ mile N of W 6^th, E of Queens Rd & N of Wakarusa.

21.              Comprehensive Plan Text Amendment – (CPA-2001-01) Horizon 2020, include additional language pertaining to Health Svcs.

22.              Transportation – (TIP) for FY2001-2006.

23.              Contract Change Order – B.A. Green for $46,309, Centennial Park Project. For 10’ wide walkway.

24.              Contract Change Order – B.A. Green for $10,839, Teddy Roosevelt Foundation Renovation Project, S park.

25.              Sign Permit Application – Mural, Van Go’s Headquarters, 715 New Jersey.

26.              Mortgage Release – 1133 Penn, Violet Toyne.

27.              Mortgage Release – 1300 New Hampshire, Donnis Graham.

28.              Health Dept –  Health Advisory, sewer main break at KU, affected tributary of Yankee Tank.

29.              Indoor Aquatic Center – completed in April

30.              Banners – Downtown Lawrence Banner Project, approve expenditures of $8,557.28.

31.              Ordinance No. 7326 – 1^st Reading, License requirement for rental of residential structures in RS Zoning effective February 1, 2002.

32.              North Michigan Improvements – Direct staff not to proceed with bridge.

33.              Barker Neighborhood Traffic Calming Improvements.

34.              West 6^th Street Improvements.

35.              Ordinance No. 7154, 1^st & 2^nd Reading, Annex, tract bounded by Clinton Pkwy, 27^th, Crossgate & Inverness.

36.              Text Amendment (TA-01-01-01), Chapter 20, establish Urban Conservation Overlay District.

37.              Overlay District – Wording change, project might not meet every guideline in order to conform to the documents intent.

38.              Overlay District – Wording change, “Parking structure facades should be designed to be compatible with neighborhood bldgs.

39.              Zoning (Z-01-03-01), Overlay District, Downtown Lawrence.

40.              Rehabilitation – 1201 E 13^th

41.              Clinton Water Plant Expansion Project, Phase 1.

42.              Airport – Install well for fire protection, Lawrence Municipal Airport.