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HomeMy WebLinkAbout12/08/2003 Work Session . . . . , City of SpringfIeld Work Session Meeting MINUTES OF THE WORK SESSION MEETING OF THE SPRINGFIELD CITY COUNCIL HELD MONDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2003. The City of SpringfIeld council met in a work session in the Jesse Maine Room, 225 Fifth Street, SpringfIeld, Oregon, on Monday, December 8, 2003 at 6:00 p.m., with Mayor Leiken presiding. ATTENDANCE Present were Mayor Leiken and Councilors Ballew, Woodrow, Lundberg, Fitch, Ralston, and Malloy. Also present were City Manager Mike Kelly, Assistant City Manager Cynthia Pappas, City Attorney Joe Leahy, City Recorder Amy Sowa and members of the staff. 1. Joint Meeting with Willamalane Park and Recreation District. Mayor Leiken introduced the members of the Willamalane Park and Recreation District Board of Directors. Members include Jim Mayo, Greg James, Blake Hastings and Helen Wagner. He also introduced Bob Keefer, Superintendent ofWillamalane Park and Recreation District. Willamalane Board Chair Jim Mayo said tonight was an opportunity to discuss projects that are important to both the city and Willamalane. The two organizations have been good partners in the past and the Board would like to bring council up-to-date on what is happening. City Manager Mike Kelly said that tonight's joint meeting was a chance for the City Council, Willamalane Board of Directors and staff to get together to discuss issues of mutual concern. Mr. Kelly said the following items would be part ofthe agenda for this joint meeting. · Willamalane Project Updates (15 Minutes) · SpringfIeld Mill Race Update (10 Minutes) · Springfield Bicycle Master Plan Update (10 Minutes) · Willakenzie Fire District Proposal (15 Minutes) . Other a. Willamalane Project Updates. Willamalane Park and Recreation Board Superintendent Bob Keefer presented the report on this item. Mr. Keefer referred to the memo included in the agenda packet which outlined the different park improvements completed by Willamalane Park and Recreation District. He said that since the council and Willamalane Board last met, Willamalane pursued many improvement projects and possible acquisitions to improve park and recreation opportunities throughout the city. The purpose of the memo is to provide the council with a short update on the following signifIcant projects: · 32nd Street Community Sports Park - Mr. Keefer distributed a copy of a map showing the master plan for this site. He said the portion on the map that is highlighted in green is phase 1 and lA. He said they were able to increase phase 1 with a $250,000 grant they received last year. The artifIcial turf fIeld is in place at this time, but is not yet accessible. Hyland Construction has been contracted to put in the parking lot, lighting and concrete work. Willamalane , City of Springfield Council Work Session Minutes December 8, 2003 Page 2 . staff will put in the landscaping later this spring to keep costs down. They will be installing a pre-fabricated restroom at a cost of $80,000, plus the installation costs. This structure could be moved if needed for future growth. The playground would also be installed this year. The facility should be open for play by April or May 2004. Willamalane will continue to move forward on this project using some of the land value as a match for additional grants. These grants will be used for more improvements over the next several years. He discussed which portion of the park would be used for matching funds for grants. The cost of phase 1 and lA is approximately $1.6 Mjointly. In addition, Willamalane is working towards raising money for lighting this year. . Mr. V ernon/V olunteer Neighborhood Park - Mr. Keefer referred to a display map outlining this park and showed the volunteer park piece, which was outlined in red. This park was purchased with Community Development Building Grant (CDBG) Funds and by making a multiple land trade with the School District and the city. Willamalane received $150,000 grant from the Land and Water Conservation Fund, and they are matching that with their funds and time. A contract has been awarded to Brown Contracting for the initial construction on this project and they are within budget. The playground equipment has been purchased and the Rotary Club will assist with the basketball court. This park will serve children in that are~ without having them cross 42nd Street. This is a safety issue. . · ClearwaterNinyard Property - Willamalane applied for a grant, did not receive that grant, but have resubmitted. They have added an additional $56,000 that would come to the city from the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) as a trade-off for land they are using at 1-5. This is a way to leverage dollars and get more dollars back to the city for further projects along the Mill Race. Willamalane should know in February the results from that grant application. · Vitus Butte/Moe Mountain - Willamalane has been working with Steve Moe regarding the acquisition of about 10 acres he is gifting to Willamalane along the base ofMoe Mountain/Vitus Butte. This gives Willamalane the opportunity to connect the Eugene Water and Electric Board (EWEB) bike path over to the new 42nd Street bike path. They plan to work with Union PacifIc to acquire a railroad right-of-way which is abandoned to make that connection. This would create a nice, long stretch of bike paths that could eventually connect with the Highbanks area. · Comprehensive Plan Update - Willamalane has been working two years on this plan and will bring it to council in summer 2004. Prior to that, staff from Willamalane and the city will work together to form a draft plan. Willamalane has had a great working relationship with city staff on this project, which is much appreciated. Willamalane will need support on this from council. There has been a large amount of public comment on this, with over 700 citizens returning surveys and an additional 200 citizens returning i,nformation. Willamalane's Board will hold a work session on December 17 on the draft document and will hold a public hearing the fIrst of March 2004, with a possible adoption the first of April 2004. . Mr. Keefer asked council if they had any questions of the Board of Directors or himself. . City of Springfield Council Work Session Minutes December 8, 2003 Page 3 . Councilor Ballew asked where the other groups involved in the 32nd Street Sports . Complex, were regarding construction or other plans for this site. Mr. Keefer said Kidsports has not started any construction on the site at this time. They will be working with Willamalane to lease fIelds. Willamalane will be working more with BroadBase this spring. Councilor Ballew said she went to a meeting with the county and other cities where they discussed cooperation between the city and county regarding performance services. She hopes this cooperative work sharing continues and we can fInd more ways to assist. Mayor Leiken asked if they were looking for a name for the Mt. V ernon/V olunteer Neighborhood Park. Mr. Mayo said they have not pursued that as of yet, but do know it is an opportunity to honor someone. The Board is reviewing their policy. Councilor Fitch said it is a good opportunity to honor someone either locally or nationally. Councilor Ralston said both Rotary clubs in SpringfIeld are working on this park. They suggested that Volunteer Park was an appropriate name because it is a cooperative volunteer venture between the community and community organizations. Other suggestions have come forward. ' . Mr. Keefer said at this time the 32nd Street Sports Complex is so named so staff can identify it, but that will be another naming opportunity. He said they will be naming the fIrst soccer fIeld in the 32nd Street Sports Complex the Bill Morrisette fIeld. Mr. Hastings announced to council that they have an opening on their board. The posting closes on the December 19th at 5:00pm with interviews occurring in January 2004. All positions are at-large. b. SpringfIeld Mill Race Update. Mr. Kelly introduced Maintenance Manager Ed Black. Mr. Black presented the report on this item. He referred to a memo included in the agenda packet which gave the project status and future. . · Current Mill Race Project - In September 2003 the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers published the Springfield Mill Race Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration Report (feasibility study) and Environment Assessment. This document summarized the Corps assessment of alternatives for improving fIsh and wildlife habitat along the SpringfIeld Mill Race. Mr. Black referred to a map outlining the Mill Race Project. The plan outlined on the map was the same as the original plan. The recommended plan included the construction of a new inlet to the mill race in Clearwater Park, removal of the mill pond dam, creation of a meandering channel through the center of the former mill pond with seasonally recharged ponds, a fIre protection pond, re-vegetation of the mill race mill pond and riparian buffers, placement of large woody debris in the upper and middle reaches of the mill race and construction of educational/recreational facilities. City of Springfield Council Work Session Minutes December 8, 2003 Page 4 . The new inlet at Clearwater Park is the eastern end of this three mile project which terminates at the Booth-Kelly crane shed. Earlier this fall, the council approved an agreement (Project Cooperation Agreement) with the Corps to undertake the design and construction of the Mill Race project; this agreement defInes the roles and responsibilities of both parties for completion of the project as well as the city's ongoing responsibility to manage the resulting ecosystem improvements. In 1999 the city purchased a critical piece of property between the current inlet and Clearwater Park for $335,000. The city is currently in the final stage of negotiating a conservation easement to complete the connection of the new inlet channel to the existing Mill Race, as well as the acquisition of nearly 40 acres of Mill Race, Mill Pond and riparian lands from McKenzie Forest Products. He referred to a map showing these properties. . The total project cost, including contingencies (approximately 25 percent) is estimated to be $6.4 million. Sixty fIve percent of the project cost will be funded by the Corps under Section 206 of the Water Resources and Development Act. It is anticipated that the city's real estate (either currently owned or to be acquired) contribution to the project will satisfy $1.91 million of the $2.20 million local match required for the project cost. The balance ($380,000) of the local share will be satisfIed by a combination of in-kind services, cash or, if necessary, reductions in project scope. In addition to providing the lands, easements, and rights-of-way necessary for the project, the city will operate and maintain the project after construction. Project design is under way. Phase I construction is scheduled for July 15,2004 - September 30, 2004 and. will include demolition of an abandoned bridge adjacent to the Mill Pond dam and removal of a weir in the upper reach of the Mill Race. Phase 2 is scheduled for April 1, 2005 - September 30,2005 and will include the balance of the construction work (inlet, channel excavation, conversion of the mill pond to wetlands and seasonal ponds, demolition of the dam and education/recreational facilities). The city will have responsibility for maintenance of this project once it is completed. · Future Mill Race Projects - Achieving the community's long-range vision for the Mill Race includes implementation of project components which are not eligible under Section 206 (Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration) of the Water Resources and Development Act. Mill Race Stabilization and Protection Mr. Black referred to a map showing the Booth-Kelly site. Although the Corps was not able to justify funding ecosystem restoration of the last half mile of the Mill Race (from the Booth Kelly site to the Willamette River), the Corp funded project will benefit from the following: . o Improve fIsh and wildlife habitat and fIsh passage on the half-mile stretch ofthe Mill Race downstream from the crane shed by restoring, preserving and managing the adjacent riparian corridor. City of Springfield Council Work Session Minutes December 8,2003 Page 5 . . . o Clean-up city-owned property on the south bank of the pond to foster stewardship and enhance recreation. The project may also include removal of debris from the Mill Race channel, its banks and city-owned property adjacent to the Mill Race. o Remove barriers to fIsh passage, and to correct previous channel modifIcations that have caused deterioration of water quality and fish habitat functions. These improvements include culvert replacements or retrofIts, road crossing and outfall modifIcations and channel restoration. o Bank stabilization, removal of invasive plants, planting native vegetation along the lower reach of the Mill Race. Mill Race Educational and Recreational Facilities The City of SpringfIeld, SpringfIeld School District #19 and Willamalane Park and Recreation District identified a series of projects, which would transform the Mill Race and Mill Pond into a multifunctional community asset. Three nodes (one property owned by each partner agency) were identified for development of educational and recreational facilities. Development of the city-owned property (Mill Pond and Booth Kelly) is partially funded within the scope of the Corps current project. Educational and recreational facilities include: trails and boardwalks; canoe/boat launches/ historical signage; information kiosks; comfort stations; parking, etc. The fmal chapter of the Mill Race Project could include the following: o Expand and enhance the Mill Pond recreational and educational facilities (Further development of this site will support the on-going community effort to revitalize the City Center by providing a natural resource amenity with easy pedestrian and bicycle access in the downtown core.) o Develop two additional nodal recreational and educational areas on publicly owned land. Construct trails, viewing platforms, information kiosks and associated parking to increase public access and awareness. · Agnes Stewart Middle School Site. This site is situated adjacent the new Agnes Stewart Middle School, located approximately halfway between the Mill Race inlet and outlet. The focus of the facilities here will be water resources and riparian ecology. This site will enhance the school district's existing water resources curriculum. · Clearwater Park Site. This site is located near the new inlet to the Mill Race on property that is already an active component of the local park system, and will provide public access to both the Middle Fork of the Willamette River and the Mill Race. o Implement the system of multiple use trails from the Mill Race inlet to outlet which also connect the three educational/recreational nodes. City of Springfield Council Work Session Minutes December 8, 2003 Page 6 . Councilor Ballew asked if there was enough water depth to accommodate boats and canoes. Mr. Black said there may be times oflow flow, but for the most part there will be adequate water flow for boats and canoes. That is one of the objectives of this project. Councilor Ballew asked members of the Willamalane Board about Clearwater Park and if the services they now offer at this park would change when the Mill Race is completed. Mr. Keefer said they have not yet made a master plan for this site, but once they know the actual location they will create such a plan. There will be signifIcant changes to that park. Mr. Black outlined some of the changes that will occur near this park. Mr. Mayo said this would be a major project. The Willamalane Board members toured the site and it is an impressive piece of property which the city can be proud of. Ms. Wagner asked about the brick historical building located near the mill and if it would be included and used in the Mill Race Project. . Mr. Black said they have had conversations about that building. The city will be . purchasing the property around that building. The owners of the property, McKenzie Forest Products, need the facilities, but not necessarily in that location., They are open to discussions regarding the actual building. It is a great building with great opportunities. Mayor Leiken asked if we have had conversations with Gunderson. If this area is used as an educational opportunity and students are present, the rail cars are too close to that area. It could be a safety issue for students who are present. He asked if they may be interested in locating to another part of the city. Mr. Black said staff has not had a conversation with them at this point, but should be talking with them soon. It is important because their location is problematic. At this time, a fence and tree line are planned for that area. Mayor Leiken said they are a good, wage-providing company, and we need to work with them to find a solution that works for both the city and Gunderson. We do not want to drive them out of our city. Mr. Kelly clarifIed that Gunderson is a tenant of the City of SpringfIeld at Booth Kelly. The city does have rights, but we do want to work together with them. Mr. Black said they have had great cooperation with McKenzie Forest Products. There have been discussions regarding the quarry in that area and there are great opportunities. Mayor Leiken said it has been interesting talking to Corps of Engineers in Washington D.C. This is a very well-received project. . City of Springfield Council Work Session Minutes December 8, 2003 Page 7 . Ms. Wagner said the time for Phase 2, scheduled for April 1, 2005 - September 30,2005 seemed like a short amount oftime to do a large amount of work. Mr. Black said originally the Corps wanted to do all the work in one season, but then decided to break it down into the two seasons. It is a long stretch of property, but there isn't a lot of material involved. The Corps say they can finish during that time frame. c. Springfield Bicvcle Master Plan Update. Transportation Manager Nick Arnis presented the report on this item. Mr. Arnis referred to the memo included in the agenda packet which discussed the implementation status of the Springfield Bicycle Plan. The SpringfIeld Bicycle Plan was adopted in June, 1998 and included a 20 year list of bike and multi-use projects as well as goals, policies, implementation strategies, and design practices. Since 1998, the City striped bike lanes on the following roads: . Centennial (5th to 28th) . South 32nd (Main to railroad line) . The 14th, Mohawk, 19th corridor (Main to Yolanda) The city also completed the 42nd Street multi-use path from the Weyerhaeuser entrance to Marcola Road. . When TransPlan was adopted in 2001, it included the bike project list from the SpringfIeld Bike Plan. In addition, TransPlan contains a map and list of Priority Bikeway Projects that must be implemented to meet one of the alternative performance measures to comply with the Transportation Planning Rule (TPR). The priority bike projects measure specifIes that by 2005, there must be 15 miles of priority bike projects built, in 2010 there should be 45 miles, and by 2015, 74 miles of these bike projects should be in place. Currently, the metro area has implemented 13.8 priority miles with Springfield contributing 4.5 miles of bike lanes. Three priority bike projects are scheduled before the end of2005: · South 42nd (Main to Jasper Road) as part of an upgrade of the street · Assisting Lane Transit District with bike lanes on South A (Mill to 5th) · Coordinating with the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) when bike lanes are striped on Main Street (20th to 73Td) as part of a state overlay project Mr. Arnis referred to a map which outlined the proposed sites for bike lanes. For future projects, city staff continues to pursue funds to improve the Eugene Water and Electric (EWEB) path (Willamalane is also working with city staff on this), conduct a feasibility study to build the High Banks project, and upgrade Franklin Boulevard with sidewalks and bike lanes in Glenwood. These projects fulfIll part of the city's alternative performance measures to reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT). . Mr. Mayo said the Highbanks project will be benefIcial in providing bicycle access to SpringfIeld residents. He mentioned the possible relocations of the National Guard . Building and Willamette National Forest from Eugene to SpringfIeld. Bicycle access is important for employees looking to relocate to this area. City of Springfield Council Work Session Minutes December 8, 2003 Page 8 . Mr. Amis said another project planned would be located north of the armory location on 3151 street. Councilor Ballew asked if the county was constructing bike paths relative to TransPlan. Mr. Amis said in urban plan area, the county has a small list of projects, mostly in Eugene and SpringfIeld. He does not know where they are located. The City of SpringfIeld would reach their goals regarding construction of bike paths. Mr. Hastings asked if there was implementation of bike paths on the parkway extension road out to the PeaceHealth Riverbend site in Gateway. Mr. Amis said PeaceHealth has proposed a multi-use path running parallel to the parkway on their site. They have also proposed another path from GameFarm Road. There will be a lot of miles in those bike paths. Mr. Hastings asked if the installation of these bike paths reduces VMT as is intended. Mr. Amis said there are many measures that affect the VMT, such as Bus Rapid Transit, bike paths, and nodal development. Each of these gives people options for travel. Mr. Amis said we have not signifIcantly reduced the VMT, but we see small changes over time. It has more to do with commuting, bicyclists and recreation. . Mr. Malloy said just painting bike lanes on Main Street may not be enough. It is very dangerous and fearful to ride a bike along Main Street. People are open to taking alternate routes, such as Highbanks. Any alternate routes would be benefIcial. Mr. Amis said they have proposed raised medians in some areas and painted bike lanes in others along Main Street. Ms. Lundberg said the intent of bike lanes is to be off the street. Allowing bike lanes along the street is another way to regulate traffIc that is often more conducive than creating more bus stops or reducing parking. It also encourages bicycle use. She discussed the bike path linking EWEB with northwest SpringfIeld. There is no alternate route but to cross Q Street, and that is a dangerous intersection. Mr. Amis said when the city applied for the Service Transportation Overlay Program money to overlay Pioneer Parkway, one of the elements was to look at that crossing. Willamalane has a proposal to cross to get to Laura Street. Discussion was held regarding different routes to access the downtown area. d. Willakenzie Fire District Proposal. Assistant City Manager Cynthia Pappas presented the report on this item. She referred to the memo included in the agenda packet which gave an update on the Fire District Proposal. . On December 1, 2003, the Willakenzie Rural Fire Protection District (WFD) passed a resolution which requests the Lane County Local Government Boundary Commission approve annexation of the corporate limits of the City of SpringfIeld into the boundaries City of Springfield Council Work Session Minutes December 8, 2003 Page 9 . of the WFD. The Council must adopt a Resolution in support of the Willakenzie proposal for the annexation request to go forward to the Lane County Boundary Commission. Elements necessary for such support include a determination that this action is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and an IGA that accounts for all personnel and capital matters associated with this transfer. On November 17,2003 Council held a public hearing on this issue and continued the public hearing to December 8, 2003. Eight citizens testifIed; 3 submitted written testimony on November 17. Council will be considering the following resolution on December 8, 2003: a resolution initiating annexation of all territory within the corporate limits of the City of SpringfIeld to the Willakenzie Rural Fire Protection District and requesting that the Lane County Local Government Boundary Commission approve the annexation. Evaluation of the fInancial and operational feasibility of annexation has been in progress since December 2001. A consulting firm, Emergency Services Consulting, Inc, submitted a formal feasibility study in January 2002. Over the past six months, the city has been working with the WFD to formulate a draft intergovernmental agreement. Financial and operational stabilization of emergency services is at issue. . The Mayor formed a Blue Ribbon Panel (BRP) to review the idea of annexing SpringfIeld Fire and Life Safety to the WFD and to recommend whether any of the freed up General Fund dollars should be utilized to stabilize the public safety levy. The BRP unanimously recommended moving forward with annexation. Annexation presents a viable option for providing stable, effIcient and effective long- term service delivery of fIre and life safety services. Once this fIrst phase occurs, there is likelihood that several other districts (Rainbow, Glenwood, and other nearby rural fire districts) would merge with the WFD, providing further cost and service effIciencies. Ultimately, Eugene may choose to annex their fIre and life safety department to Willakenzie, further consolidating services, which would result in cost savings throughout the metropolitan area. BenefIts to the City include the ability to absorb the temporary ( 4- year) police services levy with money saved from transferring the General Fund expense for fire operations to WFD, while simultaneously making it possible for the District to absorb the fIre levy within their permanent tax rate. The result would serve to stabilize basic levels of police and fire protection for the SpringfIeld taxpayer. WFD gains the advantage of stabilizing the tax rates for fIre protection at the same level as city residents while gaining a direct voice in the governance of fIre and life safety operations. The timeline for the annexation process and financial information are attached as Exhibits 1 and 2 in the agenda packet. Ms. Pappas opened the floor to questions regarding compression. . Mr. Kelly asked if the board had other questions about any other issues regarding the annexation. City of Springfield Council Work Session Minutes December 8, 2003 Page 10 . Mayor Leiken asked to keep questions to the Willamalane Board members because council has had many opportunities to discuss this issue. Mr. Keefer said his biggest concern is fInancial services and compression in reaching the ten dollar limit. He asked if compression would occur in the next two or three years. He said they are supportive of special districts, but are concerned about maintaining their programs and facilities. o Financial Director Bob Duey said the compression issue has changed between Measure 5 and Measure 50 regarding what that means. In talking to the assessor's offIce there is not a defInite answer. There is not an immediate concern in the next three to five years. Calculating preliminary fIgures, it could be as high as $9.03. Measure 50 changed the way of calculations for compression, so the rate could be in the low $7.00 amount. City staff are working with the Lane County Assessor Jim Gangle's offIce to make that determination. The fIrst year the city is looking at no impact on compression or tax rates. Ifthe economy remains stable and the real market value continues to grow at the three to fIve percent rate, compression should not occur for a number of years. . Mr. Kelly said he and Mr. Duey spoke about this and he agrees with Mr. Duey's assessment of the situation. If SpringfIeld annexed to the Willakenzie Fire District, Willakenzie levied their full amount allowed by law, the city levied all they could and Willamalane and Lane County all went out for levies, we could be at compression. That is unlikely to happen in the next two to fIve years. It is complex, but a prudent view is that there would not be compression in the next few years. Mr. Hastings said if real market value continues at three percent, compression should not be an issue. Mr. James said the issue of compression was his primary concern. A prudent estimate is that we should be in good shape for the next two to five years. e. Other. Mr. Hastings said he really appreciates the cooperation of the city and Willamalane in the development of the 32nd Street Sports Complex and the Mt. Vernon/Volunteer Neighborhood Park. These are examples of good team cooperation where everyone wms. Mayor Leiken asked Mr. Amis for an update on South 42nd Street. Mr. Amis said there was a jurisdictional transfer of South 42nd Street to the city. He said the city hopes to be out there this spring to start the improvements on this street. Mayor Leiken said this is an important safety issue. Mayor Leiken thanked the Willamalane Board Members for attending the tonight's meeting. All are friends and part ofthe community. . Mayor Leiken closed the joint meeting at 7:08 p.m. City of Springfield Council Work Session Minutes December 8, 2003 Page 11 . Mayor Leiken resumed the council work session at 7: 13 p.m. 2. Glenwood Riverfront Plan Request for Interest (RFD. City Planner Susanna Julber presented the staff report on this item. A 2003 goal of the City Council is to stimulate redevelopment in Glenwood. On June 23,2003, Charles Kupper of Spencer and Kupper presented an evaluation of the feasibility of redeveloping the G lenwood Riverfront, and proposed an implementation strategy to accomplish this task. While Mr. Kupper's work suggested redevelopment of the Glenwood Riverfront would require substanti,al investment on the City's part, council directed staff to go forward with a Request for Interest (RFI) for potential developers. The Glenwood Riverfront Plan has been an ongoing project since fall of 2000. Following the transfer of jurisdiction of Glenwood from Eugene to Springfield in 1998, the City Council identifIed "direction for the Glenwood Riverfront" as a top priority. The city has received Transportation Growth Management grants to develop a plan to guide redevelopment in the area identifIed as a node in TransPlan, which is along the Glenwood riverfront. The consultants, Poticha Architects and his sub-consultants, have been working on the project since its beginning. The concept plans have been developed with the guidance of Citizen and Technical Advisory Committees, and there have been approximately six public workshops since the project originated, for comments and input on various consultant designs and the concept plans. . The RFI, included in the agenda packet, is intended to gauge developer interest in redevelopment of the Glenwood Riverfront. It will be given to national developers known for their expertise in developing mixed use communities, and advertised in various business journals. The date for submission of an RFI proposal is February 1,2004. The City Council will interview respondents and either choose a developer to work with, or consider additional options for this project, or reject all proposals. It is important to understand that if we don't receive sufficient or quality responses, the potential for a cohesive, master planned redevelopment may be limited given the substantial investment the city may have to make for redevelopment to occur. In order to facilitate full-scale redevelopment of the Glenwood Riverfront, Mr. Kupper recommended the following in his report from June 2003: · The city should pursue breaking the redevelopment into two phases, with the intent being to create two areas large enough to attract and sustain higher end development, and to hold the cost to implement each phase at a manageable level. This strategy may be a reasonable alternative to redevelopment of the entire 48-acre site at once; and · The city should examine a variety of strategies to achieve the redevelopment of the site, including urban renewal, acquisition strategies, and/or a general obligation bond. As an alternative, staff can initiate zone changes and plan designations, working towards adoption of the concept plans developed by Poticha Architects with the TGM grant funds. Using this traditional method, development could occur on a haphazard basis and the full-scale redevelopment of the Glenwood Riverfront originally envisioned by council may not be realized. Following the January 20,2004, RFI submission deadline, staff will discuss these options with the City Council based on the number and quality of responses received. . City of Springfield Council Work Session Minutes December 8, 2003 Page 12 . Ms. Julber said they have spoken to the property owners in the past regarding this redevelopment, but will be talking with them again to inform them of the RFI process. She said council could direct any comments regarding the RFI to her or the City Manager's OffIce by e- mail or phone. Jerry Diethelm from Poticha Architects presented a slide show showing the proposed redevelopment area in Glenwood. He said this area covers about 50 acres along the riverfront. Poticha Architects built a model of this area with a possible fInal redevelopment. This is a summary of the various projects Ms. Julber has put together. He discussed the Lane Transit District Bus Rapid Transit Program, SpringfIeld Utility Board (SUB) water line project, ODOT's sidewalk improvement project along Franklin Boulevard and other projects which are underway or scheduled in Glenwood. He discussed some of those projects and how they would fIt into the redevelopment of this area. He discussed the zoning that could be part of this project. When creating this plan, they looked ahead ten years. Otto Poticha from Poticha Architects described the RFI process and why this was chosen over a Request for Proposal (RFP). He explained the difference between an RFI and an RFP. A CD has been put together that is a collection of all the work and reports that have been done on this project. Mr. Poticha suggested a three-stage RFI. . Stage one would be advertising and contacting personally contractors to see if they might be interested in this project. The city hasn't determined yet what kind of a partner they would be in this project. It would be some sort of public/private partnership. It would have to be a consolidated plan due to storm water and other infrastructure issues. I;:ach interested developer may want to speak with someone from the city. There could be an orientation meeting as well. Stage two would be checking the credentials of each developer to determine what type of experience they have in this type of development, their financial capabilities and how many public/private partnerships they have been involved with. The developers would then be asked to write a proposal showing their role and the city's role. The city would evaluate those suggested proposals, meet individually with candidates and invite up to four candidates to interview. Stage three would include the city selecting a developer, continuing negotiations, establishing a timeline, and drafting an agreement with the City of SpringfIeld. The other option would be for the city to reject all proposals. If a developer is chosen, the city and the developer would then agree upon a development proposal, agreeing with certain roles for each. Once that occurs, the contractual relationship with ODOT is to work with the developer and to modify the scheme presented tonight to fIt their patterns. It needs to be a collaborative partnership. He said tonight staff needs to get councils' approval to go forward with the RFI. Councilor Woodrow commended staff for taking this approach and looking for the interest. This will give council a better idea how developers would respond. His biggest concern is building wonderful buildings, but not having businesses and people to fill the buildings. On the other hand, having wonderful buildings may draw businesses to the area. He appreciates the thought and effort in this project. . Councilor Ballew said this area has been looked at as a node development. She asked what might happen if a developer comes forward with a vision to place a large, fIrst-class hotel or some other destination point. She asked if the city could approve of that type of development. City of Springfield Council Work Session Minutes December 8, 2003 Page 13 . Ms. Julber said that decision would be up to council. Mr. Poticha said that is why this is a three stage process. He said all those they have contacted have experience in nodal development. They have about twenty contacts, with four or five of them in the northwest. He said they would also be contacting local developers. Councilor Fitch said this approach is appropriate. She asked if the January 20,2004 deadline date was too soon with the approaching holidays. Ms. Julber said she could extend the deadline two to three weeks. Councilor Ralston asked if part of the plan included the Roaring Rapids. Mr. Kelly said Roaring Rapids will stay. Steve Roth, owner of Roaring Rapids, was involved in the planning. Councilor Ralston asked about the costs involved for this redevelopment. Ms. Julber said there were costs including demolition of existing structures to construct the infrastructure, rebuilding the road, installation of sewer off of Franklin Boulevard to the properties. The city will install sewer lines along Franklin Boulevard and construct other required infrastructure. Councilor Fitch said stage two would include discussion regarding other infrastructure. . Mr. Poticha said they have worked with ODOT and other agencies to ensure a developer would not have to wait two to fIve years for approval to get this redevelopment started. They have found ways to work with the issue of Franklin Blvd. They do not have fIrm approvals, but everyone is on board. Mayor Leiken discussed the riverfront development in Portland and the discouragement they received for that project. There were developers who worked with the Portland Development Commission, so we do have local developers capable of this type of project. He said there is a great opportunity in the Glenwood area. He would like the power lines to be addressed. He discussed planned communities in Texas that are very beautiful and effective. Glenwood is a golden opporturiity, and it is important to work with citizens and land owners. He addressed Councilor Woodrow's concern regarding vacant business offices already in SpringfIeld. He asked what we can do to entice people to come to this area. He appreciates the work staff has done on this project and he appreciates the Glenwood community members who attend these meetings. Councilor Fitch asked councilors to submit their input regarding the RFI to Ms. Julber by 5:00pm on Wednesday, December 10. 3. Consideration of Node Boundaries for the Mohawk Area. . City Planner Mark Metzger presented the staff report on this item. TransPlan includes a map of ' "Potential Node Sites". In May 2002, council selected Mohawk as one of its preferred node sites, based on that map. In the time since, staff, in conjunction with the consulting firm, ECONorthwest, has evaluated the Mohawk node site and recommended boundaries that are smaller than that shown on the TransPlan map. Staff is preparing for adoption proceedings that City of Springfield Council Work Session Minutes December 8, 2003 Page 14 . would formally designate Mohawk as one of Springfield's nodes. At issue is whether the proposed boundaries are consistent with the council's intent when choosing the Mohawk site as one of its preferred nodes. ECONorthwest lead a consultant team that examined each of the node sites selected by council in May 2002. They conducted market and land use studies for each site and made specifIc recommendations for boundaries and land use designations that were intended to optimize their viability as development sites. The team recommended boundaries for the Mohawk node site that are within the boundaries of the Mohawk site on the TransPlan map, but which exclude areas which have redeveloped under the Major Retail Commercial zone designation and areas which are developed single-family residential neighborhoods. The team also recommended excluding the McKenzie Willamette Hospital area from the initial node boundaries, given the transition that is occurring. Attachment 1 included in the agenda packet is a map showing both the original TransPlan boundaries for the Mohawk node and the new staff recommendation. Mr. Metzger referred to a map included in the council's packets showing the area that is being recommended for this nodal site. The total acreage for the six sites selected by council as preferred nodes is 766 acres. Springfield's commitment for nodal designation is 400 acres. The reduction of the Mohawk site acreage does not jeopardize the city's commitment. Staff anticipated that analysis of the individual node sites would result in a reduction from the acreage shown on the TransPlan map. . The Metro Plan and RefInement Plan amendments necessary to formalize the Mohawk node designation are tentatively scheduled to come before the Planning Commission in January. The matter will then come before the council in a work session in late January and then a public hearing in February. Should council desire to schedule more time to evaluate the proposed Mohawk node boundaries before initiating the fIrst Plarining Commission hearing, staff will revise the adoption schedule to allow further consideration. Mr. Metzger discussed the area on the map which is dominated by a fourteen acre development owned by McKay Investment. He said the McKay's are interested in making an investment in their property. They are leaning towards redeveloping the property and the city has the opportunity to help them in securing outside grants and funding for this redevelopment. Mr. Metzger asked council if they would like staff to reconsider including the McKenzie Willamette Hospital site in this node. Councilor Ballew said the area noted on this map looks appropriate. It can be expanded in the future if necessary. Councilor Fitch said this is a size that can be developed as a node and be successful. The developer is willing to partner with the city to create this node. She said it is premature to add the hospital area at this time. Councilor Ballew said with this proposal, residents would not be opposed to this redevelopment. Mr. Metzger said they have cooperative property owners in this area who have been involved since the beginning. . Councilor Woodrow asked about the area in the northwest corner that is stair-stepped across Market Street. City of Springfield Council Work Session Minutes December 8, 2003 Page 15 .. Mr. Metzger said it relates to the zoning. There is a church in that location and the city chose not to involve that property. Mayor Leiken said when he met with Doug McKay and Linda Korth, they were both willing to go forward with this redevelopment. They have a conceptual idea of what they would like to develop in that area. He said this is an area that is continuing to grow. Councilor Lundberg said she agrees with this proposal. SpringfIeld citizens prefer to go to SpringfIeld stores if possible and they will go where it is closest. Using the demographics of SpringfIeld is important in creating a good node. Councilor Ballew said often nodes have a lot of pedestrian travel. This redevelopment, although still requiring vehicle traffIc for some, could still reduce the VMT because the citizens of SpringfIeld would be the primary customers. This could prevent them from driving to Eugene as often. Mr. Metzger said staff would bring node boundaries for Mohawk to the Planning Commission on January 21 and to council on January 26. Along with this are amendments to Articles 40 and 41, which are the rules for implementing nodal development. The changes staff is recommending would make nodal development more viable in these sites. Staff is working with developers to create a policy that would encourage development. '. Councilor Ralston said it seems small in terms of a node, but it works because of the surrounding neighborhoods. He asked if there would be adequate parking. Mr. Metzger said part of the philosophy is to allow parking and vehicles. Often a good development will attract people from outside the region, so they must allow for parking. It would be pedestrian friendly and inviting to the neighborhood and there would also be bus servIce. Councilor Fitch appreciates that this looks like it could be a very successful node. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 7:53 pm. """:~ Minutes Recorder - Amy Sowa ~ Attest: Am~ City Recoraer .