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01.02.2014CouncilMinutes CITY OF AMMON CITY COUNCIL MINUTES THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2013 AGENDA: CITY OF AMMON 2135 SOUTH AMMON ROAD CITY COUNCIL - AGENDA THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2014 – 7:00 P.M. CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Steven Fuhriman at 7:00 p.m. Pledge of Allegiance – Councilmember Christensen Prayer – Councilmember Powell MINUTES: December 5, 2013, December 12, 2013, December 19, 2013 CONSENT AGENDA: Business License Accounts Payable – Exhibit A PUBLIC COMMENT REGARDING ITEMS NOT ON AGENDA: (5 Minute Limitation) PUBLIC HEARINGS: None ACTION ITEMS – OLD BUSINESS: 1.None. ACTION ITEMS – NEW BUSINESS: 1.Oath of Office - Mayor 2.Oath of Office - Councilmembers 3.Election – City Council President 4.Approve 2014 Council Meeting Calendar 5.Resolution 2013-016 – Establishing the City of Ammon Youth Council 6.Planning and Zoning – Re-Appointment - Tom Holcomb 1st Appointed 1999 –Steve Richards 1st Appointed 2010 ITEMS FROM MAYOR: Council Assignments BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS: (Council acting as BOA) 1.None. DISCUSSION ITEMS: 1.Broadband 2.Misc. EXECUTIVE SESSION: 1.Personnel Evaluations – Idaho Code 67-2345 (1-b) MINUTES City Officials Present: Mayor Steve Fuhriman – Old Business Mayor Dana Kirkham – New Business Councilmember Dana Kirkham – Old Business Councilmember Rex Thompson Councilmember Brian Powell Councilmember Sean Coletti Councilmember Russell Slack Councilmember Brad Christensen City Attorney Scott Hall City Clerk/Administrator/Planning Director Ron Folsom Deputy Clerk Rachael Brown City Treasurer Jennifer Belfield 15 Council Minutes 01.02.2014 Page of City Engineer Lance Bates Public Works Director Ray Ellis City Officials Absent: Councilmember Byron Wiscombe CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Steven Fuhriman opened the meeting at 7:00 p.m. Councilmember Christensen led the Pledge of Allegiance. Councilmember Powell offered a prayer. Mayor Fuhriman thanked the citizens of Ammon for the opportunity to serve as Mayor. He extended a special thank you to the Council for their patience and support, for guidance and all they do for the City. He said Ammon is a great city with great residents. It is a wonderful place and a wonderful time to be serving the public. He thanked the Council for the support and for all that they had done in the last four years. MINUTES: December 5, 2013: Councilmember Kirkham moved to approve the minutes, as presented. Councilmember Powell seconded. Roll Call Vote: Councilmember Kirkham – Yes, Councilmember Powell – Yes, Councilmember Coletti – Yes, Councilmember Thompson – Yes, Councilmember Slack –Yes, and Councilmember Christensen – Yes. The motion passed. December 12, 2013: Councilmember Kirkham moved to approve the minutes, as presented. Councilmember Powell seconded. Roll Call Vote: Councilmember Kirkham – Yes, Councilmember Powell – Yes, Councilmember Coletti – Yes, Councilmember Thompson – Yes, Councilmember Slack –Yes, and Councilmember Christensen – Yes. The motion passed. December 19, 2013: Councilmember Powell moved to approve the minutes, as presented. Councilmember Thompson seconded. Roll Call Vote: Councilmember Powell – Yes, Councilmember Thompson – Yes, Councilmember Slack – Yes, Councilmember Christensen – Yes, Councilmember Coletti –Yes, and Councilmember Kirkham – Abstain (absent). The motion passed. CONSENT AGENDA: Accounts Payable – Exhibit A: Councilmember Slack moved to approve the Accounts Payable – Exhibit A, as presented. Councilmember Kirkham seconded. Roll Call Vote: Councilmember Slack – Yes, Councilmember Kirkham – Yes, Councilmember Powell – Yes, Councilmember Coletti – Yes, Councilmember Thompson –Yes, and Councilmember Christensen – Yes. The motion passed. PUBLIC COMMENT REGARDING ITEMS NOT ON AGENDA: (5 Minute Limitation): None Councilmember Kirkham said this evening is Mayor Fuhrman’s last evening with the Council. She thanked the Mayor for everything he has done. There was a lovely reception this afternoon and she felt Councilmember Coletti said it best; no one could question the Mayor’s heart; his service to the City, he is a good man and he has served the City well. PUBLIC HEARINGS: None Councilmember Powell moved to adjourn the 2013 Old Business and reconvene the Council with 2014 New Business. Councilmember Kirkham seconded. Roll Call Vote: Councilmember Powell – Yes, Councilmember Kirkham – Yes, Councilmember Coletti – Yes, Councilmember Thompson – Yes, Councilmember Slack –Yes, and Councilmember Christensen – Yes. The motion passed. Mayor Steve Fuhriman stepped down from the office of Mayor of the City of Ammon and received applause and thanks for his service from the audience and the Council. ACTION ITEMS – OLD BUSINESS: 1. None. ACTION ITEMS – NEW BUSINESS: 1. Oath of Office – Mayor: Deputy Clerk Rachael Brown administered the Oath of Office to Dana Kirkham swearing her in as Mayor of the City of Ammon. Mayor Kirkham stated “I do”. 25 Council Minutes 01.02.2014 Page of 2. Oath of Office – Council members: Mayor Dana Kirkham administered the Oath of Office to Councilmember Coletti and Councilmember Slack swearing them in as Councilmembers of the City of Ammon. Councilmembers Coletti and Slack stated “I do”. Councilmember Wiscombe was unable to be in attendance at this meeting and will be sworn in at a later date. Mayor Kirkham gave her State of the City Address and said: “Members of the Council and staff and members of the community, thank you all for being here and thank you for your continued commitment to the City of Ammon. In 1930 Ammon was a village of 270 residents, there were two general stores, a brick yard, and a grain elevator. In 1963 Ammon received the official Idaho State rating as a City. Today we are very much a City with 14,000 people. We have a thriving business and commercial district, and we are the 17th largest city in the State of Idaho out of 223. We are a smart, progressive, cutting edge city that offers fiber optics, mature parks, quiet neighborhoods, and the amenities and conveniences of cities many times our size. Perhaps our greatest asset is our strong sense of community. The people who make up the city of Ammon, the staff and its residents never cease to amaze me with their commitment to making Ammon the kind of city that you want to live, work and play in. Ammon currently has 11departments and 34 fulltime employees; that is actually very remarkable when you consider the level of service we provide with one fourth of the staff and in most cases a significantly smaller budget than cities comparable in size both to us in population and square miles. All of you make me extremely proud. I have witnessed city employees on many occasions going the extra mile to help assist residents with every day needs. The growth that we have experienced, and the satisfaction of the people who live here is a testament to the job you do, so thank you. “In 2013 the City of Ammon saw much success. I am pleased to report that we are fiscally sound, we have a year of operating expenses in the bank, and the budget is balanced. The Public Works Department completed improvements on 17th street and implemented the findings from the Waste Water Facility Planning Study raising the standard of maintenance for our wastewater system. “IT officially provided high bandwidth connectivity to district 93 at a very affordable price validating our stated goal to support the communities need for better broadband by providing open infrastructure. “We added two fulltime equivalents to the Fire Department getting us that much closer to our goal of having the station manned 24/7. “Parks and Recreation installed playground equipment at the Woodland Hills Park and re-did the west McCowin ball field into a softball diamond for the Ammon girls’ softball league. One of the things our Parks Department does exceptionally well is couple with Eagle Scouts and community volunteers for community projects; as a result of this, we have saved almost $58,000 because of community and volunteer efforts. “Residential building permits increased ten percent this year, and commercial permits went up thirty three percent and that is excellent news because it means we are beginning to grow again. “We are in the process of completing our GIS mapping of infrastructure and the Planning and Zoning Commission completed the very laborious task of reviewing the Title 10 in its entirety; this gives the comprehensive plan teeth, and helps us to continue to grow responsibly. “All of these successes are not the result of a single person, but the combined efforts of an outstanding team of dedicated employees. I would challenge anyone to find a more dedicated, highly skilled or competent staff anywhere in the state. Thank you for working so hard and for caring so much. “Now we begin 2014 and a look into the future. There are very high expectations for the City Council; these individuals sitting at my right and at my left. This has to be one of the most talented, professional groups of individuals ever to lead the City and we will do a terrible disservice to this community if we do not realize our potential. 2014 will be the year that we focus a little bit on the past, meaning the Original Town Site and Hillview. They are the foundation of this community, and they are ready for our attention. In the coming months we will begin community meetings involving the patrons in these areas as we build a master plan. 2014 will be the year that we tackle strategic planning, and hopefully as we begin the budget process for 2015 we will have a very sound 3, 5 & 10 year plan for capital improvements and infrastructure. 2014 will be the year that we will work very closely with our neighbor, the City Idaho Falls.” Mayor Kirkham introduced Mayor Elect Rebecca Casper. “Together we will be tackling issues on the Hitt Road Corridor; most importantly and specifically how to resolve the right turn only dilemma out of the Ammon Town Site. Starting this month we will begin reviewing fees in our City. No one should be forced to live or do business outside of Ammon because the costs are too high; it is our responsibility to maintain Ammon as an affordable and optimum option to work and live. These are just a few of the challenges and goals that we have for the coming months and years. We all want to live in a city that encourages community and that is sustainable and we have that in Ammon and it is our responsibility to protect it. There is a lot of work to be done, but we can do it. Very appropriately, Nelson Mandela once said “It always seems impossible until it’s done”, and with that said let’s get about the business of doing the impossible. Thank you.” 3. Election – City Council President: Councilmember Thompson nominated Councilmember Powell as Council President. Councilmember Coletti seconded. Roll Call Vote: Councilmember Thompson – Yes, Councilmember Coletti – Yes, Councilmember Christensen – Yes, Councilmember Slack – Yes, and Councilmember Powell – Yes. The motion passed. 35 Council Minutes 01.02.2014 Page of 4. Approve 2014 Council Meeting Calendar: Councilmember Powell moved to approve the 2014 Council Meeting Calendar. Councilmember Christensen seconded. Roll Call Vote: Councilmember Powell – Yes, Councilmember Christensen – Yes, Councilmember Slack – Yes, Councilmember Thompson – Yes, and Councilmember Coletti – Yes. The motion passed. Resolution 2013-016 – Establishing the City of Ammon Youth Council: 5. Mayor Kirkham said Mr. Youngberg presented the ideal for the Ammon Youth Council to the Council at a previous meeting. This is his senior project. Mayor Kirkham asked the youth that were present that would be serving on the Youth Council to stand up, and she thanked them for their willingness to serve. Colbie Youngberg, 2250 Fieldstone Drive asked the Council if they had any questions. Councilmember Coletti asked if both high schools (Bonneville and Hillcrest) were represented. Colbie said it is Hillcrest only. Mayor Kirkham asked if they were all members of the current student council. Colbie said some were, some were not. Councilmember Powell asked what the Youth Council’s plan was after the resolution is passed, and when are they going to begin. Colbie said they would be starting immediately. Councilmember Slack asked if they had any specific topics they were going to address. Colbie said he does not think so, but the topics would be part of the discussion within the Council. Councilmember Christenson said they are excited to have the youth participation and appreciate the Youth Council’s willingness to serve. Councilmember Coletti said they will be an example to the City of Ammon youth and to expect others to look up to them. Colbie said they are excited; they have good youth in Ammon. Councilmember Coletti moved to approve Resolution 2013-016 – Establishing the City of Ammon Youth Council. Councilmember Slack seconded. Roll Call Vote: Councilmember Coletti - Yes, Councilmember Slack – Yes, Councilmember Christensen – Yes, Councilmember Thompson –Yes, and Councilmember Powell – Yes. The motion passed. 6. Planning and Zoning – Re-Appointment - Tom Hunsaker 1st Appointed 1999 –Steve Richards 1st Appointed 2010: Councilmember Powell moved to reappoint Tom Hunsaker and Steve Richards for a period of three years to expire on December 31, 2016. Councilmember Christensen seconded. Roll Call Vote: Councilmember Powell – Yes, Councilmember Christensen – Yes, Councilmember Slack – Yes, Councilmember Thompson – Yes, and Councilmember Coletti – Yes. The motion passed. ITEMS FROM MAYOR: Council Assignments: Mayor Kirkham addressed the Council and read their assignments to them. Councilmember Powell will be over the Broadband and Technology Department with Councilmember Coletti as a second; Councilmember Christensen will be over the Building Department with Councilmember Thompson as a second, Councilmember Coletti will be over the Fire Department with Councilmember Powell as a second, Councilmember Wiscombe to be over the Parks and Recreation Department with Councilmember Christensen as a second, Councilmember Coletti will be over Planning and Zoning with Councilmember Wiscombe as a second, Councilmember Slack to be over the Public Works Department with Councilmember Christensen as a second, Councilmember Thompson will be over Police and Enforcement with Councilmember Coletti as a second, Mayor Kirkham will be over the office staff with Councilmember Powell as a second, Mayor Kirkham will be over the budget with Councilmember Slack as a second, Councilmember Powell to be over public relations with Councilmember Coletti as a second, and Councilmember Slack over the Engineering Department with Councilmember Thompson as a second. BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS: (Council acting as BOA) 1. None. DISCUSSION ITEMS: 1. Broadband: Councilmember Powell said he wanted to keep Council’s broadband assignments at the forefront of their thoughts. Councilmember Christensen said he had a conversation with Wendy Horman, and she said the Governor has said the controversial issues would be avoided in the legislature this year, and she sees the broadband issue as controversial. Councilmember Christensen said he thinks the issue will go to the local government committee, and reported that Wendy said if it did, the issue would have no place whatsoever, and the chair would not even hear it; that was just her impression. Councilmember Christensen does not know what has authenticated Wendy’s impression. Wendy felt the better course of action would to explore this year, and pursue next year. Councilmember Slack said he thought that was the Council’s plan. Mayor Kirkham asked Councilmember Coletti if he had talked to Bart Davis. Councilmember Coletti said he has not; he had tried to meet with Bart several times but, Bart’s schedule has been swamped. Mayor Kirkham said they have assignments to talk to different legislatures; she respects what Wendy says but, feels it is still important to have conversations with as many legislatures as they can. Councilmember Christenson said he is going to Boise and will have many opportunities to have discussions regarding local broadband. He hopes he will have a better perspective after his visit. Councilmember Powell said he also had a trip to Boise planned. Mayor Kirkham said on the 24th of January the regional mayors 45 Council Minutes 01.02.2014 Page of will be meeting she has requested broadband to be one of the items of discussion. Councilmember Powell said if we have enough support among the cities of Idaho the committee chair is going to have to listen. They can no longer ignore it. Councilmember Powell and Bruce Patterson have had discussions with the Idaho Telephone Association. Councilmember Powell would like to attend one of their meetings and share with them what Ammon is trying to accomplish. He feels they will be supportive of it because they are independent. The only member that is not a part of it is CenturyLink. They would like the ideal of the City putting in the infrastructure so they would not have to. Councilmember Slack said he spoke to the company working with BYU – Idaho installing their fiber. He said the conversation was positive. The owner is supportive of being part of the coalition to preserve that last mile and make sure it is open. Mayor Kirkham said we know the City of Rexburg and BYU – I are definitely on board. The goal now is to expand that. Councilmember Powell asked Bruce to set up a time to meet with the Idaho Telephone Association. Councilmember Thompson said he spoke with a Councilmember from the City of Blackfoot and she will be addressing it with the Blackfoot City Council. 2. Misc.: Jennifer said January 29th is the next III-A meeting. One of the items on the agenda is the federal law says that partners and their dependents can have medical coverage. Idaho state law says they must be married to have medical coverage. The III – A is trying to determine what their coverage is going to be since the federal and state law conflict. Jennifer is asking Council at the next meeting what the City of Ammon’s position will be on this item so she can promote it at the III-A meeting. Councilmember Thompson said we can be more stringent than the state law but, we cannot be more lenient. Scott said yes, right now if there is a divorce the insurance ends regardless of the federal law. It has been that way for years. Mayor Kirkham wanted this item put on the work session agenda. Lance asked the Council which one of them would be attending the EIRWWA (Eastern Idaho Regional Waste Water Authority) meetings. Mayor Kirkham said she would continue to attend. She received two RFP’s (Request for Proposal) for the master plan for the original town site; one from Forsgren and one from Keller. Mayor Kirkham plans to review the RFP’s. Lance, Ray and Ron have already reviewed them. Councilmember Christensen said he had a good discussion with Charlie Allen with regard to the Building Department. Charlie’s goal for this year is to integrate the input from the commercial and residential builders in the City of Ammon. The idea is to reach out to contractors building in the City and have their input regarding inspections and other items to head off potential roadblocks. EXECUTIVE SESSION: 1. Personnel Evaluations – Idaho Code 67-2345 (1-b): Councilmember Powell moved to adjourn into executive session pursuant to Idaho Code 67-2345 (1-b). Councilmember Christensen seconded. Roll Call Vote: Councilmember Powell – Yes, Councilmember Christensen – Yes, Councilmember Slack – Yes, Councilmember Thompson – Yes, and Councilmember Coletti – Yes. The motion passed. The meeting adjourned at 7:34 p.m. ___________________________________________ Dana Kirkham, Mayor ____________________________________________ Ron Folsom, City Clerk 55 Council Minutes 01.02.2014 Page of