Minutes - Council - 07/08/2014 - Laserfiche WebLink

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whereby the amendment can be approved by the Council by ordinance, without an election, provided that Council approval is unanimous. He explained that first reading does not require a unanimous vote. City Administrator Ulrich clarified that the Council had not recommended a level of 75 %, it was proposed by staff and discussed by the Charter Commission. Mayor Pro Tem Backous stated why he does not support assessments, finding assessments to be a `shadow tax' that few know exist until they receive the bill. In addition, all use the roads and assessing based on frontage rather than the type of vehicles used is arbitrary. However, in the interest of getting funds to fix the City's roads, he would support this ordinance amendment as a compromise. Mayor Pro Tem Backous stated he felt that 75% was too low, but agreed it would allow the City to move forward with road projects. Motion by Councilmember LeTourneau, seconded by Councilmember Tossey, to Introduce Ordinance #14-07, Amendment to Chapter 8 of the Home Rule Charter relating to Council Initiated Local Improvements and direct staff to schedule a public hearing for the regular Council meeting on Monday, August 11, 2014. Further discussion: Councilmember Tossey stated he agrees with comments by Mayor Pro Tem Backous, noting if the counter petition percentage can be increased and the assessment level lowered, it would be easier to support. He asked about the process to lower the assessment percentage. City Administrator Ulrich stated the City Engineer will research policies and present the information to the Public Works Committee at its August meeting. That recommendation would then be presented to the City Council at a following meeting. Councilmember Riley supported that process and noted the Public Works Committee will also address how to carve out costs that do not benefit the project, such as soil remediation. Councilmember Kuzma stated since franchise fees are not an option and this amendment would provide additional safeguards, he would support the motion. Mayor Pro Tem Backous thanked the Charter Commission for its partnership and finding a compromise position. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Mayor Pro Tem Backous, Councilmembers LeTourneau, Tossey, Johns, Kuzma, and Riley. Voting No: None. Absent: Mayor Strommen. 7.02: Consider Resolution #14 -07 -132 Authorizing Payment to Connexus Energy to Bury Electric Service Lines for Project Number W1401335 Assistant to the City Administrator Brama reviewed the staff report and recommendation to authorize payment, not to exceed $100,000, to Connexus Energy to bury electric service lines rather than install overhead lines based on aesthetics /viewshed for residents and business owners /prospects; consistency with recent development in the City; and, the cost to bury the proposed power line at a later date will cost 2.5 to 3.5 times more. City Council / July 8, 2014 Page 5 of 7