HomeMy WebLinkAboutmin 11-28-79 V..T Y CfJ v'N C. I_ '�!I N'J T E S
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CI�"Y COUNCIL CHAMBERS
111 W. CHURCH
November 28, 1979
Special Meeting
Council met in Special Session November 28, 1979, at 11 :05 a.m. in the City
Count-" : ,embers jointly with the Planning Commission and Parking Advisory
Commission to �i-zcuss in-lieu parking fees.
Councilmembers presenZ.- Hickey, Myers, Simpson, Brannon, Snyder
Planning Commissioners presc,,; : !:orny, Fenter, Metzler, Fowler-
Parking Advisory Commissioners present: 111A. Gomes, Smith, Feibusch, Oakes,
Enemark
Mayor Snyder stated at its November 7, 1979, meeting Council determined to
form an ad hoc committee composed of representatives from the above named
commissions and Council to resolve some of the problems which have developed
regarding in-lieu parking fees. The purpose of this meeting is to obtain
input from those who wish to speak on the subject.
It was pointed out that many of the problems concerning the in-lieu parking fees
has come about because of lack of an ordinance. Concern was expressed as to
whether or not there is a real need for the numerous commissions and committees
that citizens are required to seek approval from before a project can begin.
The in-lieu fee requirement could cause businesses to locate elsewhere.
Planning Commission concern pertains to benefit and being equitable for all .
Mayor Snyder referred to the section of the code wherein it states the Parking
Advisory Commission was created to be an advisory body to Council . She stated
further that Council does not hear all matters inasmuch as some subjects are "
heard only by the Planning Commission.
It was pointed out that the first requirement is for Council to determine if
the City will or will not require in-lieu parking fees. Then other questions
can be more readily answered. A Petition was read which alleged to have con-
tained the signatures of 35 downtown merchants a-nd. property owners indicating
their support of the in-lieu fee concept. It was also pointed out that if the
fee requirement is extended city-wide the rule would be the same throughout the
city, then merchants would not refuse to build downtown. This would make the
requirement equitable to all . The existing parking requirements of the code
should remain as is and only in cases where it is impossible for the developer
to provide parking, would the in-lieu fees be required. The intent is for the
developer not to have a choice. There would be no guarantee to the developer.
The Parking Advisory Commission is of the opinion that parking created is for
the general public. The end goal is to provide free controlled parking. The
in-lieu fee structure would accomplish this. The intent is for the proposed
fee to pay only a portion of the total cost of parking. -Meter revenue could
augment the balance. The proposed in-lieu fees are less than required of
developers in outlying areas because the downtown area is augmented by meter
revenue.
City Manager stated it is logical for all parking to be public. Parking
construction could begin now and use fees used to help retirE the debt.
A parking district law has been adopted which provides for assessment type
financing.
Planning Director pointed out some parking will be eliminated as part of a
downtown design study recommendation. The need is to solve the overall
parking problem.
The City Attorney stated there is a need for Council to determine the direction
it wants to go, then staff can work out the details for subsequent approval by
Council . He stated the revenue generated -from the fee structure and meters is
not great. He pointed out the disincentive potential and the necessity to
arrive at a point where this does not happen.
Councilman Simpson stated there is a need to be looking in a different dirEction.
To be fair, one way is adopt an ordinance, collect fees and provide a jitney
service between lots.
Council determined there will he no need for an ad hoc committee to consider
this subject further. The matter will be agendaed for a subsequent Council
meeting.
Meeting adjourned at 12: 12 p.m.
HATTIE M. TILLOTSON