HomeMy WebLinkAboutMin 01-11-00MINUTES OF THE UKIAH CITY COUNCIL
Special Joint Meeting with
Ukiah Airport Commission
Tuesday, January 11, 2000
The Ukiah City Council met at a Special Joint Meeting with the Ukiah Airport Commission
on January 11, 2000, the notice for which had been legally noticed and posted, at 7:00
p.m. in the Civic Center Council Chambers, 300 Seminary Avenue, Ukiah, California. Roll
was taken and the following Councilmembers were present: Smith, Libby, Baldwin,
Ashiku, and Mayor Mastin. Ukiah Airport Commissioners present were: Fowler,
Whetzel, Ashiku, and Rogina. Staff present: Community Services Director DeKnoblough,
Assistant City Manager Flad, Risk Manager/Budget Officer Harris, City Manager Horsley,
City Attorney Rapport, Planning Director Sawyer, Senior Planner Stump, and Recording
Secretary Elawadly.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Airport Committee Chairman Fowler led the Pledge of Allegiance.
3. PROCLAMATION FOR FATHER HANS
MIS Ashiku/Libby to approve adding item 3, Proclamation to Father Hans, to the agenda,
carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Smith, Libby, Baldwin,
Ashiku, and Mayor Mastin. NOES: None. ABSTAIN: None. ABSENT: None.
Mayor Mastin presented Father Hans with a City of Ukiah Proclamation in recognition of
his many years of dedication and service to the community as Pastor of Saint Mary's of the
Angels Catholic Church since 1994.
Father Hans accepted the Proclamation and presented a brief commentary thanking the
City and the public for honoring him.
4. CONSENT CALENDAR
MIS Ashiku/Smith to approve .the Consent Calendar as follows:
a. Rejected Claim for Damages Received from Richard and Leslie Shoemaker Due to
Late Filing.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Smith, Libby,
Baldwin, Ashiku, and Mayor Mastin. NOES: None. ABSTAIN: None. ABSENT: None.
5. NEW BUSINESS
a. Appointment to Vacancy on Ukiah Airport Commission
Councilmember Baldwin waived his turn to make the first nomination.
MIS Libby/Baldwin nominating James Mulheren to the Ukiah Airport Commission to fill the
unexpired term of Doug Crane which expires on June 30, 2001, carried by the following roll
call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Smith, Libby, Baldwin, Ashiku, and Mayor Mastin.
NOES: None. ABSTAIN: None. ABSENT: None.
b. Consideration of Funding Request from Martin Luther King Jr. Observance
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Committee
City Manager Horsley stated at the December 15, 1999 meeting, after receiving the
Martin Luther King Jr. Day proclamation, the Observance Committee requested $500
funding assistance from the City Council.
Lacretia Peoples, representing the Committee as Director/Coordinator of the Martin
Luther King Jr. Observance event, responded to specific questions from the Council by
stating the celebration's budget is $3,000. The function is not considered to be a religious
celebration and the Committee is "under the umbrella" of the Ukiah Community Center.
Judy Judd, Director, Ukiah Community Service Center stated the 7th Annual Martin
Luther King Jr. Observance is a commitment to opportunity and justice and is considered
an inspirational and valuable community event. She noted the observance is the purpose
for the Ukiah Community CenteCs involvement. She addressed the City Council's concern
whereupon too many organizations and/or agencies would request similar City donations.
She noted the event is unique. She further noted the community needs inspirational
personal growth events where the community is allowed to express its values. She
reiterated, in her opinion, the event is appropriate and should be recognized and supported
by the City.
Councilmember Libby inquired, as a legally formed organization, why the Committee was
operating through the Ukiah Community Center and not the Martin Luther King
Committee's own bank account. She questioned the initial non-profit application process,
wherein the group would be funded directly.
Ms. Judd replied donations and/or funding considerations should not be based upon
whether a single focus purpose group has organized into a non-profit entity. She stated
the Committee does exist as a one purpose group, and the process of obtaining a non-
profit status is not feasible. She further stated the aforementioned process is lengthy, and
it would too costly for a single focus purpose group to organize into an official federally
recognized entity. She stated it is common practice for an agency, such as the Ukiah
Community Center, to act as the fiscal agent for a smaller organization.
Councilmember Smith stated it is sometimes a common practice for a large non-profit
agency to act as fiscal agent for other organizations, which, specifically, is one issue
oriented. The process of establishing an official federally recognized agency would not be
cost effective. He commented on the initial non-profit application process and noted in
order for the group to be funded directly, the group would have to a. ffiliate formally with a
larger organization or become a non-profit organization.
Councilmember Baldwin inquired whether the event can proceed should the City's
donation be a lesser amount.
A general discussion followed regarding individual expenditure items as listed in
Attachment 1 and it was the consensus of the Councilmembers to appropriate $500.
MIS Baldwin/Mastin approving the allocation in the sum of $500 for the Martin Luther King
Jr. Observance Day, carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Smith,
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Libby, Baldwin, Ashiku, and Mayor Mastin. NOES: None. ABSTAIN: None. ABSENT:
None
Mayor Mastin noted the essays entitled, "1 Have a Dream," are displayed in the Civic
Center's lobby.
6. WORKSHOP TOPICS OF DISCUSSION
Assistant Manager Flad gave an overview and presentation with the assistance of visual
graphics.
Other documents presented as reference materials included:
An Airport map and/or aerial pictures used to demonstrate standard FAA designated
Airport flight patterns, Instrument Flight Rules to include approach guidelines and/or
regulations, altitude regulations, Airport protection/safety zones, and the basic Airport
layout.
The Airport Economic Impact Report prepared by the Ukiah Airport Commission and
Ukiah Airport Staff provides information relating to Airport economics. This report
outlines the basic direct and indirect economic impacts the Airport has on the
community to include economic definitions, mathematical computations, identification
of businesses located on and off site that utilize the Airport and/or its facilities, as well
as other necessary informational criteria conducive to Airport operations.
A. Airport Introduction
Mr. Flad stated the Airport property consists of approximately 160 acres and is operated
as an Enterprise Fund. There are approximately 90 aircraft based at the Airport and
approximately 10 transient aircraft on the premises at any one time. There are also
approximately 40,000 takeoffs and landings per year or 110 landings per day. There are
six aviation related businesses referred to as, "Fixed Based Operators (FBO's)." The
Airport provides aircraft fueling services and employ two full time and three part-time
employees to accommodate the public. The Airport has seven non-aviation businesses.
Two primary businesses on si~e are California Department of Forestry (CDF) and Calstar.
He noted the Airport facilities provide space for recreational purposes and also represents
a point of access for visitors. It also acts as a transportation facility, place for aviation
related businesses, a facility for emergency access/service, and the potential for commuter
service accommodations.
Airport Commission Chairman Fowler reported on the Airport operational fundamentals,
providing Workshop information to include takeoff procedures, pattern/altitude rules and
procedures, and technical instrument approach information and procedures. The visual
graphics provided a clear view of typical Visual Flight Rules approach and departure
patterns for runways 33 and 15. He noted airplanes must takeoff and land "into the wind"
and the procedure involves a technical process. He further noted there are two types of
flying to include, Visual Flight Rules (VFR) and Instrument Flight Rules (IFR). He stated
approximately 10 percent of flight activity in and out of this valley is attributed to IFR, which
consists of those pilots who are instrument rated and who fly aircraft with more
sophisticated instrumentation. An IFR Map for the Airport also provided visual clarity
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regarding instrument appreach guidelines. He stated certain altitudes and/or elevations
must be maintained during the aircraft descent prefile, whereupon the final descent is
regulated to 1,720 feet.
Airport Commissioner Ashiku reported the Airport is considered very safe regardless of
how pilots take off and/or the direction in which they land.
Staff reported there have been no injury accidents at the Airport.
B. Discussion of Ukiah Airport Budqet
Mr. Flad presented an overview of the current Fiscal Year 1999/2000 Airport budget and
the history of revenues and expenditures for the Airport over the previous 10 years. It was
noted the 1999/2000 Fiscal Year projected Ukiah Airport Revenue is $658,713, of which
$479,296, or 73 percent, represents gas and oil sales, and $179,417 or 27 percent,
represents rentals and/or leases. It was further noted the 1999/2000 Fiscal Year projected
Ukiah ,Airport Expenditures is $562,052, of which 25 percent represents salaries and
benefits, 60 percent represents aviation fuels, and 15 percent represents other
expenditures. As indicated in the Airport economic overview, Airport fuel represents a
large portion of revenue.
Airport Manager Bua reported on rising fuel costs and how this factor affects the Airport.
Councilmember Ashiku referencing the Council appreved apprepriation for a new jet fuel
truck, inquired whether the CDF's lease commitment would extend threugh the truck
payment period. CDF is the largest customer for fuel purchases.
Airport Manager Bua replied there will be an increase in other businesses who would also
use the jet fuel truck services.
C. Discussion of Airport Development
Mr. Flad presented an overview of the past, present, and proposed future development
projects such as West Coast Wings, storage hangars, Eagle's Nest Aviation, and storage
hangar relocation. He reported on Airport development relative to existing building leases,
which include Mountanos, Bob Veal/Joe Mayfield, and the City's Flight Service Station
(FSS), which is currently for lease. Other future proposed Airport developments include
California Department of Forestry (CDF) relocation and expansion, the Greg Taylor hangar
proposal, and the possibility of City developed hangars. The CDF project will cost
appreximately $7.3 million, which constitutes a large investment for Airport development.
He stated the CDF project agreement will be presented to the City Council for approval at
a later date. He reported on the vacant areas that are currently being discussed by the
Airport Commission and Sub-Committee. The City Council was asked to provide direction
with regard to the need and location of additional storage hangars, fixed based operators,
non-Airport related users, and future land preservation use. Visual graphics also
indicated which proposed Airport property would be preserved for future use.
A brief discussion followed regarding potential new and existing hangar issues to include
cost factors and Airport hangar locations.
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Councilmember Libby questioned the various types and number of new proposed
hangars.
Airport Manager Bua stated there are 10 new proposed storage hangars wherein
interested people must make a financial commitment before construction can begin.
Airport Commissioner Ashiku stated new developments should be considered carefully,
since Airport land availability has diminished. He noted some of the land located near the
Airport, which is considered a "safety zone," may be property worth purchasing for Airport
development purposes.
Relocation of the City's Corporation Yard was discussed.
Councilmember Baldwin inquired regarding the reason for the Airport's sudden
development interest.
Staff noted the Airport has been in existence for many years without the addition of new
on and off site development. Today's business technology, the current economy, as well
as the way business is now conducted, have all contributed to the Airport's increased
business development. Aviation, whether utilized for business purposes or for recreation,
has taken on a new interest.
'Airport Commissioner Ashiku stated aircraft is used in the business shipping and
receiving process. He further encouraged the City to consider business competition, to
maintain an optimistic attitude toward new Airport business opportunities, and to consider
Airport infrastructure enhancement improvements
D. Discussion of Noise Abatement Procedures
Mr. Flad reported the Airport Commission has developed several mitigation measures for
the noise impacts of the Airport. He indicated noise abatement, as specifically
documented in the Airport Good Neighbor Plan draft outlines, the Ukiah General Plan
goals relative to the Airport, Airport noise complaint procedures, and Aircraft state and
federal regulation noise level standards, which are set at 65 db and 45 db, relative to
residential use and space. He reported noise issues are subjective, meaning what noise
annoys one person may not annoy another person. Visual graphics demonstrated the
various noise levels recorded in the City. He stated a final version of the Airport Good
Neighbor Plan will be presented to the City Council in February 2000. He reported the
Plan incorporates quiet flying procedures to include traffic pattern location, traffic pattern
altitude, calm wind runway, and jet aircraft restriction information. The Plan provides
procedural notification guidelines/standards pertinent to Airport signage, posted noise in
sensitive areas, brochures, hourly weather broadcasts, and other related notification
requirements. The Plan incorporates communication efforts to include meetings with
Airport users, mailers, pilot manuals, and instructors. It also encompasses a complaint
process to include general procedures and single event aircraft abuse. Additionally, the
Plan incorporates recommendations for protective barriers, technology, and Airport funding
issues. It outlines Airport development to include capacity limitations, runway 15
configuration, and property acquisition. The Plan further outlines appropriate land use in
the Airport vicinity to include Airport land use compatibility, Airport overlay zone, and a
January 11, 2000
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residential awareness program.
Councilmember Baldwin inquired regarding noise abatement enforcement for those pilots
who violate quiet flying regulations.
Staff indicated the Airport has methods for determining who violate the noise abatement
regulation. The City Council will have the opportunity to discuss the Good Neighbor Plan
in detail and once adopted, public implementation will be extensive to include
guidelines/standards for signage, quiet flying meetings for pilots, City personnel, on and
off site businesses, and other Airport facility users, educational brochures, or, as otherwise
outlined, in the Plan.
Airport Commissioner Ashiku noted emergency/medical aircraft are noisy, but the
benefit outweighs the inconvenience.
The Ukiah General Plan, the Municipal Code, and the Airport Land Use Planning
Handbook also provide noise abatement information and regulated guidelines, which are
consistent with the Ukiah Municipal Airport Master Plan. It was noted with regard to Airport
noise abatement and safety concerns, new Airport signs would soon be in place.
According to Airport records, approximately five inquiries were made during the last year
by concerned citizens with regard to safety and quiet flying issues. Staff indicated most
public telephone calls regarding ^irport incidents are not formal complaints, but are
considered public inquiries and/or questions regarding Airport operations and procedures.
E. Discussion of Self Fueling
Mr. Flad reported as part of the Fiscal Year 1999/2000 goals and objectives, staff has
begun preliminary research on alternative methods of fueling aircraft to include the
potential for providing self fueling. He commented on the current methods for fueling and
the potential for implementation of the card lock or automated fueling system. He further
commented on the 1999/2000 fueling goals and objectives, and stated each fueling system
has pro's and con's. It was noted the card lock system is very costly, wherein revenues
set aside for other expenditures would be used to make the card lock system payments.
Staff will ascertain the benefits and/or potential need for a card lock system. Larger
airports have both a self and full service fueling operation, but the smaller airports have
either a self service or a full service fueling operation. An assessment needs to be made
regarding the value and cost perspective of employees versus the costs and potentially
unknown problems associated with self fueling. The Airport is on call 24-hours a day,
seven days a week, and there is an additional fee imposed for customers requiring
emergency fueling after hours. It was noted should fueling be available 24-hours a day,
seven days a week, there would be airplane traffic at all hours, which could impact the
quiet flying procedures. A card lock system would not be feasible if the cost cannot be
offset in another manner. Aircraft fueling constitutes the largest portion of the Airport's
revenue. Aircraft fueling is also done by truck. The revenue from jet fuel should rise
when the anticipated purchase of new planes with turbine engines is completed by the
California Department of Forestry. Staff is conducting a fuel survey to include such criteria
as fuel prices and examination of other Airports who use a card lock system, and/or a truck
fueling system. A summary of the issues associated with full service fueling include
obtaining fuel when and where necessary, ability to service anyone, limited hours, staff
January 11,2000
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intensive, and liability issues. A summary of various issues associated with an automated
fueling system include 24-hour a day availability, less staff intensive, certain liability
concerns, potential cost savings for customers, initial development cost, inability to serve
all customers, the need to maintain jet fuel trucks in addition to the automated fueling
system. Airport staff will review survey information relative to staff time, fuel customers,
and all airport existing and potential fueling systems prior to making a fuel system
determination.
Airport Commissioner Rogina addressed the issue of Airport growth and inquired
whether the Workshop participants support growth and the benefits associated with it. He
stated there is a direct correlation between growth and revenue generation. He further
stated there may be some public concerns relative to growth impacts, but mitigation
measures, if appropriately addressed, would allow growth to proceed without
confrontations. He noted Airport growth concepts may not be fully supported, but the
Airport is a "regional airport" wherein growth is anticipated.
Mayor Mastin replied Airport building space is limited. He agreed growth does create
potential impacts depending on the type of growth allowed. He noted the City can
potentially "build-out" the vacant Airport areas with minimal increase in aircraft traffic by
restricting aircraft traffic coming into the Airport, or, as an alternative, by regulating new
business development on site. He stated the City does have control over growth at the
Airport and standards would be appropriately formulated and maintained to effectively
coincide with the anticipated growth process.
Councilmember Libby stated an important aspect to growth is careful planning wherein
growth can be controlled.
Councilmember Ashiku reported pilots who violate Airport regulations are subject to
stringent FAA regulation enforcement. He noted all potential Airport, projects/issues would
be reviewed by the City Council or the Planning Commission, wherein the terms "growth"
or "growth impacts" would be a factor for consideration.
End of Workshop.
City Manager Horsley requested a volunteer Councilmember to serve on the "Census
2000 Complete Count Committee, which would meet three times.
Councilmember Baldwin volunteered to serve on the aforementioned Committee.
6. AUDIENCE COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
No one from the audience came forward.
7. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business the meeting was adjourned at 9:13 p.m.
C~t~ine Elawadly, Reco~,)"-~'ecretary
January 11, 2000
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