Subject to change as finalized by the City Clerk. For a final official copy, contact the City
Clerk's Office, (319)753-8124.
MINUTES OF THE PROCEEDINGS
OF THE BURLINGTON, IOWA CITY COUNCIL
Meeting No. 5
March 2, 1998
The Burlington City Council met in regular session at 7:00 p.m. with Mayor Scott, Council
Members Edwards, Henry, Thomas and Wright, present. Mayor Scott and the City Council
members welcomed Bruce Slagle as the new City Manager to the viewing audience. All present
had opportunity to speak and nothing additional was filed in the office of the City Clerk.
BURLINGTON CITY COUNCIL
PRESENTATION: Certificate of Appreciation to Reverend Bramlett for Service on the
Human Rights Commission
CONSENT AGENDA: To the Public:
All matters listed under Item I., Consent Agenda, having been discussed were considered to be
routine by the City Council and were enacted by one motion. There was not separate discussion
of these items. If discussion was desired, that item was removed from the Consent Agenda and
was considered separately.
MOTION: To approve all listed under Item I., Consent Agenda.
DISCUSSION: Council Member Henry requested the removal of the Resolution In Support of State and Local Government Economic Empowerment Act from the consent agenda for discussion at the close of the meeting. He further requested the removal of the Resolution Approving Appointment of Bruce R. Slagle to the Position of City Manager for the City of Burlington, Iowa from the consent agenda to the first item on the regular agenda. All present had opportunity to speak and nothing additional was filed in the office of the City Clerk.
(VOTE: 5 "AYES") CARRIED
RESOLUTIONS:
1. Resolution Approving Appointment of Bruce R. Slagle to the Position of City Manager
for the City of Burlington, Iowa
DISCUSSION: The City Clerk swore in Bruce R. Slagle to the position of City Manager for the City of Burlington, Iowa. All present had opportunity to speak and nothing additional was filed in the office of the City Clerk.
(VOTE: 5 - "AYES") ADOPTED
2. Resolution Approving Plans and Specifications for the 1998 East-West Arterial, Phase II
DISCUSSION: Mayor Scott explained to the viewing audience that at the previous council meeting that Council held a hearing on the plans and specifications for the 1998 East-West Arterial, Phase II in which the vote was 3 against and 2 in favor. He stated that it was later found out that the three council members who voted against the plans and specifications were voting against the resolution approving the plans and specifications and not the route. He stated that Council would be bringing up the Resolution Approving Plans and Specifications for the 1998 East-West Arterial, Phase II for reconsideration. He stated that comments in regard to the concept would not be brought up for discussion as the concept was approved by the City Council last year. The Public Works Director reviewed the plans, specifications, and those items which Council had concern with to Council and the viewing audience. He stated that he was working with property owners at 1901 Whittier Street and 1823 Delmar Street, where the arterial could pose severe noise or safety problems. He reviewed the funding for the Mason Road project which would consist of general obligation bonds $1,548,500.00; ISTEA grant $281,500.00; sewer fund $210,000.00; and sales tax monies $20,000.00 for a total of $2,060,000.00. Those who spoke in regard to the project were as follows: Debbie Patterson, 1823 Delmar; Claudine Capps, 1920 Laurel; Donna Beyer, 1816 Laurel; Rick Orth, 1902 Whittier; Marlan McKee of 1822 Harrison; John R. Sandell, 2803 West Avenue; and Betty Raines, 1801 Page. Many of those who spoke were opposed to the east-west arterial being on Harrison Avenue. Many property owners stated their concern for safety. Donna Beyer of 1816 Laurel stated that she had presented the City Clerk with a petition against using Harrison Avenue as the east-west arterial and their concern for safety. John R. Sandell of 2803 West Avenue read his editorial that he had written in the Hawk Eye newspaper. He stated that the City should purchase all the properties on the south side of Harrison Avenue. Betty Raines of 1801 Page urged Council to go forward with the project. Council Member Edwards stated that at the prior council meeting he had no intention of killing the arterial, and was willing to look at any route change, but the votes were not there to do that. He stated that the City could do many things to make the project more tolerable and not have an adverse impact on the residents of Harrison Avenue. He stated that he was willing to make things tolerable for the residents of Harrison Avenue. Council Member Wright stated that he lives in the area being affected, and he has a five year old son. He stated his concern for his son's safety in walking on the sidewalks with cars parked on the sidewalk. He stated that if he lived on Harrison Avenue he would be mad. He stated that safety was an issue with him. He stated that he would not sacrifice safety or quality of life for convenience. He stated that he does not base his decisions on being re-elected by citizens. He stated that he would regret making his worst decision in his life at the meeting. He stated that the decision he was about to make would affect the citizens of Harrison Avenue for the rest of their life. Council Member Thomas stated that he has agonized and prayed over the issue the past week. He recounted last year's five separate votes on pieces of the route and the unanimous vote the Council reached on the whole route with the Harrison Avenue connection. He stated that it would not be fair to go back on his word to the previous Council. He stated that Harrison Avenue was already listed as an arterial street in the Master Street plan. He stated that Council needed to go ahead and approve the plans and specifications using Harrison Avenue as the east-west arterial. Council Member Henry stated that children were not going to get run down by a vehicle because they were walking along an arterial street. He stated that council needed to look at the big picture and the majority of people that will be served by the arterial. He further stated that he raised two children while living on an arterial street with no problems. Mayor Scott stated that the reason for the east-west arterial street was to relieve traffic on West Avenue. He stated that residents on Mason, Leebrick, Page, and Barrett will be affected. He stated that the route would actually affect everyone on the south side of Burlington. He stated that he felt absolutely terrible that his friends and neighbors were going to be affected. He stated that property owners have the option to move or to work with the Public Works Director and make the best of a bad situation. He asked the residents to forgive him for voting in favor of Harrison Avenue as the east-west arterial. He further stated that by law concept hearings were not required on projects. He stated that the Council has held concept hearings to allow input from citizens. He stated that this Council cares for its citizens. He urged people not to let a single issue drive a wedge between friends. All present had opportunity to speak and nothing additional was filed in the office of the City Clerk.
(VOTE: 5 - "AYES") ADOPTED
HEARINGS:
1. Statement: Consideration of Budget for Fiscal Year 1998-1999
COMMENTS: The Finance Director presented the budget for fiscal year 1998-1999 to the City
Council and viewing audience. He stated that the total proposed budget was $38,031,840.00, up
38%. He stated that the general fund budget was $11,547,764.00, up 8.76% with major areas of
increase as follows: 3% salary increase; employee benefits; city council salaries; temporary
employee adjustments; part-time Police Dispatcher; downtown shuttle bus; fire department
overtime; purchase of one new bus; Downtown Partner's funding; school crossing guard (½
cost); and outside agencies. He stated that the general fund revenue changes were as follows:
property taxes; shelter reservation fees; fire inspection fees; open burning permits; engineering
charges; and employee benefits transfer. He stated that the items not funded were as follows:
Technology position; Sunday library hours; additional library part-time hours; free bus service;
and two police officers (partial funding). He stated that the recreation fund budget was
$116,163.00, up 135% due to eleven new youth programs. He stated that the sales tax fund for
future property tax relief total available was $1,507,952.00 of which $347,952.00 was allocated
for fiscal year 1998-99. He stated that the proposed property tax levy was $12.1788, up .0462%.
He stated that the proposed capital project spending was $16,695,530.00, up 24%. He stated that
the major changes in the proposed capital projects were as follows: sewer maintenance; Sports
Complex; increased street improvements; building maintenance; riverfront improvements; BUS
replacement; environmental improvements; WWTF improvements; Jefferson Street sidewalks;
Community Field; and the Youth Center for a total of $3,102,100.00. He further reviewed the
capital improvements projects with Council and the viewing audience which totaled
$16,695,530.00. He also stated that the sales tax allocation total was $1,222,230.00. Cristy
Schmidt of 147 Golf Lane thanked Council on behalf of the YWCA for the City's contribution to
the Battered Women's Shelter. Dean Burkhart of 1616 Haskell stated that there was a need for a
leaf pickup site in Burlington. Dan Hoffman of 537 Summer Street stated his concern that the
property tax rate would be higher than last year. He stated that he would like to see the City's tax
rate decrease each year. Mayor Scott stated that Council has always stated that they would hold
the line on taxes. He stated that without the income from the sales tax monies the property taxes
would be considerably higher. After discussion by the Council in regard to the shuttle service
which downtown employees have not been using, it was decided to eliminate the shuttle service
for another year in the budget prior to approval of the budget on March 11, 1998. John R.
Sandell of 2803 West Avenue suggested that Council create a task force to study a shuttle
service. All present had opportunity to speak and nothing additional was filed in the office of the
City Clerk.
Motion to Close CARRIED
2. Statement: Consideration of Issuance of $2,500,000.00 General Obligation Sports Complex
Bonds
COMMENTS: The City Manager stated that the Council would be approving the Resolution
Determining to Proceed with the Issuance of $2,500,000.00 General Obligation Sports Complex
Bonds, in place of a Resolution in regard to Reimbursement. The Finance Director stated that
the total estimated cost for the Sports Complex was $4,516,200.00. He stated that the debt
already incurred for the project was $1,085,000.00. He stated that BADCO's share was
$372,000.00. He stated that the City would be using sales tax in the amount of $670,000.00 and
an ISTEA grant in the amount of $111,200.00.00 for the project. He stated that the City would
be selling up to $2,500,000.00 in general obligation bonds for the Sports Complex. He stated
that the debt incurred would be repaid using TIF monies generated in the Flint Ridge Business
Park. Council Member Wright stated that the Sports Complex was sorely needed in the
community. He stated that the $2,500,000.00 would be monies well spent. Council Member
Thomas echoed the comments made by Council Member Wright. He stated that bus loads of
people will be coming to Burlington to use the Sports complex, and will spend their monies at
local restaurants and motels. Council Member Henry stated that he supported the project as it
benefitted the quality of life for the citizens of Burlington. He stated that exercise and fitness has
been a growing trend. He further stated that he was glad to see the project take place. All
present had opportunity to speak and nothing additional was filed in the office of the City Clerk.
Motion to Close CARRIED
Resolution Determining to Proceed with the Issuance of $2,500,000.00 General Obligation
Sports Complex Bonds
DISCUSSION: None.
(VOTE: 5 - "AYES") ADOPTED
RESOLUTIONS/MOTION:
1. Resolution in Support of Southeast Iowa Regional Airport Authority's Capital
Improvements Program
DISCUSSION: The City Manager stated that Mike Salamone, the Executive Director of the Southeast Iowa Regional Airport Authority was available to answer any questions that Council may have in regard to the Airport's capital improvement program. Mike Salamone, Executive Director of the Southeast Iowa Regional Airport Authority, reviewed the Airport's operating budget and five year capital improvement program with the City Council and viewing audience. Dan Hoffman of 537 Summer stated that Mike Salamone has done an excellent job in bringing money into the airport. He further stated that Mike Salamone was very professional. All present had opportunity to speak and nothing additional was filed in the office of the City Clerk.
(VOTE: 5 - "AYES") ADOPTED
2. Resolution Approving Preliminary Plat for Burlington Senior Living Campus Subdivision
DISCUSSION: The City Manager stated that the Plan Commission had held a public hearing on February 9, 1998 in regard to the preliminary plat of Burlington Senior Living Campus Subdivision. He stated that the City Planning Commission had voted 9 to 0 to conditionally accept the preliminary plat of Heckenburg Subdivision subject to conditions. The Project Coordinator stated that the City had received a request from Dr. Shan Bedi to subdivide 19 acres of land located on the south side of West Avenue, east of Gear Avenue approximately 1/4 mile. He stated that the 19 acres would be subdivided into 4 lots which would consist of the following: an assisted living facility, health center, and medical clinic, and a senior housing complex. He reviewed with Council and the viewing audience the street and sewer improvements. He further reviewed the six conditions to the subdivision. All present had opportunity to speak and nothing additional was filed in the office of the City Clerk.
(VOTE: 5 - "AYES") ADOPTED
3. Resolution Approving Final Plat for Burlington Senior Living Campus Subdivision
DISCUSSION: The City Manager stated that the final plat for Burlington Senior Living Campus
Subdivision had not arrived in time for the City Council to approve. He recommended that the
City Council table the Resolution to the March 11, 1998 Special City Council Meeting. Council
Member Edwards made a motion that the Resolution Approving Final Plat for Burlington Senior
Living Campus be tabled to the March 11, 1998 Special City Council Meeting. Council Member
Henry seconded the motion. After roll call vote by the City Clerk the motion was unanimously
approved. All present had opportunity to speak and nothing additional was filed in the office of
the City Clerk.
4. Motion that the Resolution Approving Final Plat for Burlington Senior Living Campus to
tabled to the March 11, 1998 Special City Council Meeting
DISCUSSION: None.
(VOTE: 5 - "AYES") CARRIED
DISCUSSION:
5. Resolution Approving Preliminary Plat for Heckenburg Subdivision
DISCUSSION: The City Manager stated that the Plan Commission had held a public hearing on February 9, 1998 in regard to the preliminary plat of Heckenburg Subdivision. He stated that the City Planning Commission had voted 9 to 0 to conditionally accept the preliminary plat of Heckenburg Subdivision subject to one condition. The Project Coordinator stated that Heckenburg Subdivision was within two miles of the City's corporate limits which allows the City to review the subdivision. He stated that the request was from Stacy Heckenburg to subdivide and create one residential lot located north of Irish Ridge Road, approximately 1/4 mile south of the intersection of Irish Ridge Road and Flint Bottom Road, known as 11903 Irish Ridge Road. He stated that the site was owned by the petitioner's mother and father and contains 1.053 acres. He stated that the condition to the plat was that any future development or subdivision of the property would require full platting per the City's Subdivision Ordinance. All present had opportunity to speak and nothing additional was filed in the office of the City Clerk.
(VOTE: 5 - "AYES") ADOPTED
6. Resolution Approving Final Plat for Heckenburg Subdivision
DISCUSSION: None.
(VOTE: 5 - "AYES") ADOPTED
7. Resolution in Support of Study Circle Work Groups
DISCUSSION: Council Member Wright stated that Council Members Henry, Thomas, and himself were involved in the Study Circle Work Groups. He stated that the work groups were about getting to know your neighbors and address race relations in the community. He stated that the groups were growing in Iowa. Council Member Thomas stated that he was excited about the Study Circle Work Groups. He stated that the group would celebrate diversity. He stated that the school system did an excellent job in promoting Black History month in Burlington. All present had opportunity to speak and nothing additional was filed in the office of the City Clerk.
(VOTE: 5 - "AYES") ADOPTED
8. Resolution In Support of State and Local Government Economic Empowerment Act
DISCUSSION: John R. Sandell of 2803 West Avenue stated that his concerns in regard to the Resolution of Support of State and Local Government Economic Empowerment Acts were as follows: inflationary effect of adding money to the budget of the country, and that congress will be creating money for local governments which will be interest free, however, it will make the money very politically oriented. He stated that he commended Dick Distelhorst for bringing the issue up as it needs to be addressed. Council Member Edwards stated that he supported the Resolution 100%. He stated that the act would create jobs, increase wages, and increase tax revenues. Council Member Thomas thanked Mr. Distelhorst for bringing the issue up to Council. Council Member Henry stated that it sounded great, but since he didn't understand it, he didn't feel comfortable in voting in favor of the Resolution. All present had opportunity to speak and nothing additional was filed in the office of the City Clerk.
(VOTE: 4 - "AYES" SCOTT, THOMAS, WRIGHT, EDWARDS
1 - "NAY" HENRY) ADOPTED
Adjournment: 10:28 p.m. Approved: March 16, 1998
Kathleen P. Salisbury Timothy E. Scott
City Clerk, CMC Mayor
(See tapes on file in the office of the City Clerk for complete discussion and documentation.)
ITEM I.
Consent Agenda
FINANCES AND MISCELLANEOUS
Minutes of Previous Meetings
Payroll and City Claims
REPORTS AND BONDS
RESOLUTIONS:
1. Resolution Awarding Contract for the 1998 Angular & Main Intersection Improvements
2. Resolution Approving Agreement with Rec Tech, Inc. for Consulting Services for the
Regional Family Recreation Complex
3. Resolution Approving Agreement with Metzger Johnson Architects, Inc. for Design of the
Riverfront Improvements, Phase III
4. Resolution Reappointing City Officer of the City of Burlington
5. Resolution Approving Acquisition of the Lot and Improvements at 417 Peasley Street under
the Targeted Neighborhood Planning Program, Infill Development Plan
6. Resolution Approving Purchase of a Greens Mower for Flint Hills Municipal Golf Course
SET DATE FOR PUBLIC HEARING: MARCH 16, 1998
1. Consideration of Filing of an Application to the Iowa Department of Transportation for
Federal and State Operating Assistance for BUS
APPOINTMENTS
Regional Family Recreation Complex Advisory Committee: Jerry Sherwood