10-23-2000 CC MIN - SPECIAL - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

. . . City Council Minutes October 23, 2000 Page 3 Mayor Klinzing suggested a committee consisting of representation from the City Council, HRA, and downtown merchants to work out the details of the sidewalk replacement. The city administrator indicated that staff could put together a more exact cost estimate for the sidewalk replacement. It was the consensus of the council to have the HRA take the lead in this project. There was also a council consensus concurring with John Plaisted's sidewalk proposal. The City Council directed staff to work with John Plaisted in coordinating sidewalk designs and to report back to the council as soon as possible. Director of Economic Development Catherine Mehelich talked about the need for long-term proactive planning for the downtown. She explained that the existing redevelopment plans are from the 70's and 80's and should be revised. Director of Planning Michele McPherson stated that Mr. Plaisted's development would be a cornerstone for downtown and possibly set the standard for future projects. She indicated that staff is looking for guidance on design standards for the downtown area. The council concurred that standards should be in place, however, there was no interest in requiring existing businesses to conform to certain standards. Discussion took place regarding the boundary of the downtown area. Mayor Klinzing questioned whether the downtown should extend across the railroad tracks. Council member Farber concurred and stated that this area needs to be reviewed for redevelopment. Councilmember Motin stated that it might cause more problems if both sides of the downtown are looked at for redevelopment at the same time. City Administrator Pat Klaers suggested that the HRA review the matter and consider doing an updated study with the help of a consultant. Councilmember (and Commissioner) Motin stated that he is not interested in another study. Commissioner Wilson stated that he also felt there was no need for another consultant. He stated that the HRA, with staff assistance, should devise a plan and make a presentation to the council. He stated that it is time to take action. Cliff Lundberg suggested getting the Historical Preservation Commission involved. The council directed staff to complete an updated downtown plan in-house with the HRA and some business owners involved in the planning and review process. 6. aDen Mike Director of Planning Michele McPherson reviewed the letter in the council packet from the school district pertaining to the temporary parking lot at the Senior High School. She noted that the school is requesting that the requirement of Class 5 being applied to the temporary parking lot be waived. Following council discussion it was the consensus that the school district remain consistent with the parking requirements. COUNCILMEMBER FARBER MOVED TO DENY THE REQUEST BY THE SCHOOL DISTRICT TO WAIVE THE REQUIREMENT OF APPLYING CLASS 5 TO THE TEMPORARY HIGH SCHOOL PARKING LOT. COUNCILMEMBER DIETZ SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 5-0.