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03/07/05 City Council MinutesA REGULAR MEETING OF THE KALISPELL CITY COUNCIL WAS HELD AT 7:00 P.M., MONDAY, MARCH 7, 2005, IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS AT CITY HALL IN KALISPELL, MONTANA. MAYOR PAMELA B. KENNEDY PRESIDED. COUNCIL MEMBERS JIM ATKINSON, KART GABRIEL, BOB HAFFERMAN, BOB HERRON, RANDY KENYON, DUANE LARSON, HANK OLSON, AND JAYSON PETERS WERE PRESENT. Also present: City Manager .lames Patrick, City Attorney Charles Harball, City Clerk Theresa White, Community Development Director Susan Moyer, Finance Director Amy Robertson, Fire Chief Randy Brodehl, Police Chief Frank Garner, Public Works Director Jim Hansz, and Tri-City Senior Planner Narda Wilson. Mayor Kennedy called the meeting to order and led the Pledge of Allegiance. A. AGENDA APPROVAL Peters moved approval of the Agenda. The motion was seconded. There was no discussion. The motion carried unanimously upon vote. B. CONSENT AGENDA APPROVAL 1. Council Minutes — Regular Meeting February 22, 2005 2, Council Minutes — Special Meeting February 28 2005 3, Ordinance 1525 Amending Municipal Civil Court Surcharges — 2nd Reading The Municipal Judge has requested authorization to include a $5.00 surcharge to civil court actions to fund court security and technology. Ordinance 1525 passed on first reading February 22nd. 4. Ordinance 1526 -- Amending Municipal Criminal Court Surcharges — 2nd Reading The Municipal Judge has also requested authorization to include a $5.00 surcharge to criminal cases to fund court security and technology. Ordinance 1526 passed on first reading February 22nd. 5. Appointing Special City Prosecutor The Office of the City Attorney requested Council appoint Columbia Falls City Prosecutor Dean Chisholm as Special City Prosecutor for .Kalispell. 6. Reject Bids - WWTP Storage Building Two bids were received for construction of a new storage building at the wastewater treatment plant. The bids from Davidson Construction ($175,800.00) and Bob Schweigert Construction ($169,597.00) were both in excess of the budgeted $90,000.00. Staff recommended Council reject both bids. Kalispell City Council Minutes March 7. 2005 Page 1 7. Volunteer Reco nition for the Town Hall Meeting on Teen Depression and Suicide 8. Proclamation — 639th uartermaster SuppLy Compqp_y Month Atkinson moved approval of the Consent Agenda. The motion was seconded. There was no discussion. The motion carried unanimously upon roll call vote. C. STUDENT ISSUES None. D. PUBLIC COMMENT Janet Cahill, Director of Violence Free Crisis Line, asked for Council support of Ordinance 1.527, which would allow battered women's shelters in any zoning district. Carol Cockrell, Director of Buffalo Hills Terrace, asked the Council to support the conditional use permit for the Immanuel Lutheran Corporation. The following ;i3oke in opposition to Resolution 4987. Mayre Flowers, Citizens for a Better Flathead, said members appreciate that the Council is trying to be proactive in planning for growth, however, she is concerned that the Council has never received a report they requested on the cost analysis of the extension of services on Highway 93 South. in addition, Flowers said the Council has never received a fiscal analysis of the extension of services north that was also promised. She said because those reports have not been received by either the Council or the public, she feels any action on this issue is premature. Flowers said residents rely on the growth policy for development and the area the Council is considering extending services to is currently designated residential. She stated any requests for proposals need to be consistent with the existing growth policy and the Council should not be requesting proposals for other uses that are not consistent with the growth policy. Flowers concluded by saying several emails from residents commenting on this issue were emailed to the Council and, according to the City Clerk, were not received because of a server problem. She asked that the Council postpone their votes until those emails are received. John DeNeeve, 670 Concord Larne, said the Council needs to look at the decisions it makes tonight and the implications of those actions, especially if it encourages the Glacier Mall and the Two Rivers Development. He said we need to honor the open spaces and it "makes my heart really ill to think of these two developments taking place". DeNeeve stated he's against amending the growth policy; the citizens need to see the fiscal analysis, and he's against giving the developers any right to bid on extending the services. Kalispell City Council Minutes March 7, 2005 Page 2 Toole Holberg, 204 Columba Lane, quoting a past governor stated, "We can't stop the growth, but it must be orderly". He said he doesn't believe the growth in the Flathead has been orderly and added he hasn't receivedany printed material showing a plan for commercial growth. Holberg said he's concerned u.to t,icac.c�� vviii v� suuNiu14111g ucvC1v1Jc1a 11 Ulu �iEy elipiciiicio Epic sewer and water systems to accommodate them. He commented that if developers are serious about their projects, they will pay the costs of extending these services and the Council should insist on it. In addition, they should be required to pay sufficient funds into a water and sewage trust fund in the event facilities need to be expanded to service them. Harry Blazer, 200 Bowdish Road, asked several questions, including whether anyone is thinking about "peak oil", where within three to six years we will have maxed out our ability to produce oil on this planet and what that will mean to the City and commercial development. Mayor Kennedy asked Blazer to submit his questions in writing to the City Manager. Sharon DeMeester, 415 Chestnut Drive, stated the Council is considering running services to the Two Rivers area without considering the growth policy and the ramifications. She asked if the Council has considered the roads and the traffic, adding this should not be developer driven. DeMeester also submitted a letter from Lindsay West, who couldn't make the meeting due to illness. (Letter is attached and by this reference is made a part of the official record) Dale Luhman,169 Trail Ridge Road, encouraged the Council to continue to work with the County to plan for growth and not to continually amend the growth policy as developers appear. He said lack of planning is not fair to the existing property owners who count on zoning and the growth policy to help shape the places where they live. Luhman asked the Council to reject the extension of services to these 1800 acres. Joanne Nieman, 735 4th Avenue East, said she agrees with the previous comments concerning the growth policy and is wondering if we shouldn't just zone the entire City commercial so that everybody will be able to do whatever they want with their property and there won't be any more of this messing around doing it a little bit at a tune". Neiman said "let's just zone the whole thing commercial and just put one big jet strip right down the middle". Chuck Cummings, 1145 1st Avenue East, said there doesn't seem to be any `stick" to the growth policy and if it's something we can set aside or change for any reason then it's not serving the purpose it was intended to serve. He said there's a lot of changes happening in the valley and it won't' be long before the things we treasure are gone. Jean Ambrose, 445 Sirucek Lane, asked Council to comply with the existing growth policy. She said she understands the area is going to grow, but planning for the growth is essential. Elva Owens, 235 Ist Street East, commented with the recent addition of Home Depot, Lowes, etc., we are losing the open space which attracts people to the area. Roxanne Brothers, 786 4th Avenue West North, concurred that we are moving too fast without input from the average citizen. She said every time people object to something, the Council seems to vote for it anyway. Kalispell City Council Minutes March 7, 2005 Page 3 Ron Thiebert, 3795 Highway 2 West, stated he was born and raised on a house on Three Mile Drive and he's seen "some awful changes in this valley" and as of the last two years he's seen tremendous growth that's been helter skelter. Scott Thomas, 337 4th Avenue West, said study and investigation should be made into peak oil, a concept that's been around since 1957. He said we're in a power down phase of history and we have to consider that when we're planning. Mayor Kennedy clarified the Council is not considering amending the growth policy this evening. E. PUBLIC HEARING .... AIRPORT TIF BOND Mayor Kennedy asked for public comments concerning the financing of certain improvements at the City Airport through the sale of tax increment urban renewal bonds. Mayor Kennedy opened the public hearing. City Airport Manager, Fred Leistiko, gave a PowerPoint presentation on airport statistics and future plans. Patrick clarified the decision on whether or not to have the City airport was made in 1999 and 2002, and the City is in the execution phase right now with the securing of funding. He said a majority of the funding will be reimbursed from the FAA. Gilbert Bissell, 76 Stafford Street, complimented the City for hiring Leistiko as airport manager, stating he has gotten more done in the past eight months than in the previous eight years. He said this airport has been "studied to death" and he encouraged the Council to start looking at the airport as an asset to the City and consider this an opportunity to not only improve the airport, but the entire southern end of the City. R.T. Atkins, 1205.Ashley Drive, spoke in support of the airport, stating location is very important. He said last weekend 540 people attended an aeronautical conference in Butte, leaving $250,000 in that community. Joanne Nieman, 735 4th Avenue East, said she loves the little airport, but she's concerned it's going to become more than a "little", airport and the City will spend more money than we need to. Lex Blood, 844 3rd Avenue East, read a written statement. (Statement is attached and by this reference is made a part of the official record) Perry Brown, 1325 Nucleus Avenue, Columbia Falls, supported the expansion of the airport, stating historically airports have helped support communities and this airport isn't any different. Gene Dziza, President of Flathead Business and Industry Association, said he understands the airport will not meet FAA standards until the radio towers are removed and the 1.9 million dollars of bond monies does not include the removal of the towers. He said the FBIA is questioning what benefit the average citizen receives from the airport and whether we want to encourage more air traffic in the Kalispell City Council Minutes March 7, 2005 Page 4 city center. Dziza commented that on March 7th, Mike Daigle, GPI Airport Director, stated GPI would be willing to manage the City airport if it was moved three miles to the south on the east side of Highway 93, adding that relocating and constructing a new facility would cost half of what it would cost to remodel the current airport. Chuck Cummings,1002 4th Avenue East, said he is favor of making the airport safer, but he doesn't want it to become a large airport. (Cummings also submitted an email that is attached and by this reference is made a part of the official record) Curtis Hollenbeak, 611 5th Avenue East, said he's been a pilot for thirty years and is pro -aviation, however, he's seen a lot of airports that have become non-functional because the City grows around them and noise and safety issues take over. He said that needs to be considered before the City puts a couple of million dollars into it. Hollenbeak commented if there's been a study done that states it would be cheaper moving the airport to someplace safer, why wouldn't we do that? Norbert Donahue, 144 Crestline Drive, said it doesn't take a rocket scientist to conclude that the airport is obsolete. He said the airport served a great purpose over the past seventy-five years, but now with the growth of the City, it doesn't make sense any longer. Donahue stated the airport isn't safe, adding the City was extremely lucky with the recent airplane accident. He said eight people have been killed at the City Airport and asked "when is the next one going to happen". Donahue said the Council is dreaming if it thinks it's going to get tax increment money from Rosauer's and the Dasen Building across the highway. He stated if the City sells the bonds and manipulates the money from those two pieces of property into the urban renewal funds, then "you will be defrauding the citizens of Kalispell and the people that live in the school districts and the county" Roxanne Brothers, 786 4th Avenue West North, said she's concerned about the City building a structure for a cable tech company and how many planes will be flying into Kalispell on behalf of that company. She said she's also concerned that this company is not going to pay a living wage. John Hinchey, 534 4th Avenue .East, stated he's concerned with noise and safety and what impacts the airport expansion will have on the historic neighborhoods of Kalispell. Harry Blazer, 200 Bowdish Road, said this is the time for the Council to decide whether it wants the airport to grow, because once the investment is made, it's going to be hard to stop. Carl Feig, 305 Forest Hills Village, read a letter from Mire Daigle of GPI. (letter is attached and by this reference is made a part of the official record) Feig said he requested a response from Daigle because he was told that GPI is not interested in general aviation and that's not the case. He said at no time has the Council considered whether this land is being put to the highest and hest use. He asked that the concerns expressed at this public hearing be considered prior to any decisions being made, concluding that the "Kalispell airport has been tried and has been found wanting". Curtis Hollenbeak, 611 5th Avenue East, speaking for the second time, pointed out that by limiting the airport and not bringing in jets, you are limiting the amount of money the airport can bring in. He said the investment being spent is not going to be returned by smaller aircraft. Kalispell City Council Minutes March 7, 2005 Page 5 Chuck Jerecky, 7687 Rocky Point Road, Polson, said he's been a pilot for almost fifty years and one of the things he looks for is an airport where he can park his plane, buy his fuel, and walk to a hotel and restaurant. He said this airport fits that bill. Greg Goode, 1639 Highway 2 West, said this airport is very user friendly, generates income, and provides a training opportunity for young people. He said once the improvements are made people will build hangars and the City can make money by signing long-term leases, but you have to invest money to make money. Dan Snyder, 271 Commons Way, said a downtown airport is good for downtown businesses. He said most of the businesses want the airport to remain where it is. Rod Bitney, 339 Hilltop, said he's the President of the local chapter of the Montana Pilots Association and a member of the Airport Advisory Council. He said thousands of people have learned to fly from this airport and there have been over a thousand ambulance flights. Bitney emphasized by improving the airport the land will remain open space and any monies expended through the bond will be returned from the FAA and private investment. :Mike Strand, 1715 Foys Lake Road, said Leistiko summarized the studies that have been done and hopes the airport stays where it is. Don Herbert, 1603 8th Avenue East, said he's a flight instructor and supports the improvements. He said he doesn't understand why this growing valley wouldn't want this airport improved and he thinks it would be a big mistake not to improve it. Keith Robinson, 1303 4th Street West, said he's been on the Airport Advisory Board for ten years and said everything can't be measured by the square foot and how much the property is worth. He said it's a green space that should be preserved. Scott Richardson, 15 18th Street East, said he feels privileged to be on the advisory board at this exciting time. He said he has enjoyed being able to use the airport and he feels it has a positive economic impact. Charles Manning, 1145 1 st Avenue East, read a letter he wrote concerning the airport. (Letter is attached and by this reference is made a part of the official record) Diane Taylor, 920 3rd Avenue East, stated she's not in favor of the bond issue, adding she lives in the flight pattern.. She said she doesn't mind the small planes, but she doesn't understand why it has to be expanded. Taylor said it seems redundant to improve this airport when you already have an airport that's willing to handle the general aviation. Joanne Neiman, 1735 4th Avenue East, speaking for second time, said it's important the Council consider the comments very carefully and decide whether you're doing something for the benefit of the people of Kalispell or because it's romantic and it's history. Kalispell City Council Minutes March 7, 2005 Pace 6 Gilbert Bissell, 76 Stafford Street, speaking for the second time, noted that someone spoke about eight tragedies at that airport, but if you take the philosophy that it should be closed because of that, then you had better close Highway 93 tonight. Mayor Kennedy closed the public hearing. (All emails received prior to the close of the public hearing are attached and by this reference are made a part of the official record.) F. PUBLIC HEARING — SINOPAII SUBDIVISION This was the time for public comments concerning a request to modify the preliminary plat of Sinopah Subdivision. Mayor Kennedy opened the public hearing. Proponents None. Opponents None. Mayor Kennedy closed the public hearing. G. REPORTS RECOMMENDATIONS AND SUBSEQUENT COUNCIL ACTION G/1. RESOLUTION 4985 — REVISIONS TO THE PRELIMINARY PLAT FOR SINOPAH SUBDIVISION Due to topographical changes to the east of the site, the developer has requested the City Council modify the approved preliminary plat for Sinopah Subdivision, a 26 lot residential subdivision on approximately 5.5 acres located between North Meridian Road and Northwest Lane, north of Three Mile Drive. Kenyon moved Resolution 4985, a resolution approving certain revisions to the preliminary plat for Sinopah Subdivision, more particularly described as Lots 13, 14, 15, 27, 28, and 29, Block 1 Northwest Tracts, a platted subdivision in Section 1, Township 28 North, Range 22 West, P.M.M. Flathead County, Montana. The motion was seconded. Wilson gave a staff report and answered questions concerning the elimination of the landscape buffer. The motion carried unanimously upon roll call vote. Kalispell City Council Minutes March 7, 2005 Page 7 G/2. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT — IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CORPORATION The Immanuel Lutheran Corporation has requested a conditional use permit to allow the conversion of a garage to expand an existing day care center. Larson moved Council approve the conditional use permit for the Immanuel Lutheran Corporation subject to conditions. The motion was seconded. Wilson gave a staff report and answered questions. The motion carried unanimously upon vote. G/3. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT — RAY OF HOPE Anne and Michelle Gentry have requested a conditional use permit to allow a shelter in an existing single family dwelling at 46 Fifth Avenue West in a B-2 zone. Larson moved Council approve the conditional use permit for Anne and Michelle Gentry and Ray of Hope subject to conditions. The motion was seconded. Wilson gave a staff report. Hafferman commented the Ray of Hope is an asset to the community. Atkinson stated concerns about the location, adding he's afraid "this is going to go outside the bounds of the building and not look good for the area". Mayor Kennedy said she understands his concerns, but she feels the conditions will prevent any problems from occurring and if the conditions are not met, the conditional use permit can be revoked immediately. Larson agreed, stating he feels the safeguards provided with the conditions are more than adequate. Wilson noted she feels this is an ideal location because it's in an area of high visibility and the facility will be under a high level of scrutiny. Gabriel, a member of the planning board, added many of the same questions were asked at the public hearing and the board felt all of the issues were adequately addressed. The motion carried unanimously upon vote. G/4. ORDINANCE 1527 — ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT —1ST READING The City of Kalispell is requesting an amendment to the Kalispell Zoning Ordinance to develop a definition for safe houses and domestic violence shelters to be included in all zoning districts. Kalispell City Council Minutes March 7. 2005 Page 8 Gabriel moved first reading; of Ordinance 1527, an ordinance amending the Kalispell Zoning Ordinance (Ordinance No. 1460), by defining safe houses and domestic violence shelters, allowing there as permitted uses in all zones, and declaring an effective date. The motion was seconded. Wilson explained the purpose of the ordinance is to provide a definition for safe houses and domestic violence shelters; determine appropriate areas for their location; and create a provision under the Supplementary Regulations that specifically addresses safe houses and domestic violence shelters. She said the Supplementary Regulations read as follows: "Safe houses are not subject to public review because of the need for anonymity to protect the victims of domestic violence and abuse from their abusers. However, they will be required to be reviewed and approved by the Kalispell Site Development Review Committee for compliance with applicable health, safety and zoning regulations prior to occupancy. Consideration shall be given to nei hborhood compatibility. Periodic ins ections shall be conducted to insure compliance with the terms of initial approval. Any inquiries or issues associated with the review process shall be kept strictly confidential to the extent allowed by law in order to protect the integrity, intent and operation of the safe house and domestic violence shelters. Information acquired as part of the review process will be kept confidential. Should issues arise within the neighborhood regarding the operation of the safe house the City of Kalispell will attempt te fflediate and shall make every reasonable effort to amicably resolve potential conflicts." Hafferman said he agrees with the need for anonymity, however, there needs to be a method to inform elected officials of any problems that may arise. Hafferman moved to add a requirement to the ordinance stating: "`The City Manager shall inform each Council member within four months after the conflict arises through quiet communications without identifying the location or the persons involved". The motion was seconded. Harball said he understands Hafferman's motion, however, he's concerned with the term "quiet communications" because it might suggest improper communications. He said the City Manager can always communicate with the Council individually and it may be enough to simply advise the City Manager that you want to be apprised of any situations that may arise. Hafferman said he doesn't think there should be anything in city government left solely to staff and e wants to make sure the Council is informed. Mayor Kennedy noted the Council always wants communication on issues and what would make this any different than anything else. Hafferman said because the purpose of the ordinance is anonymity, he wants to make sure the "elected officials are not cut out of the system". Olson said he will vote against the amendment because he's sure the City Manager will keep the Council informed if necessary. Kalispell City Council Minutes March 7, 2005 Page 9 Gabriel noted the only thing that would be anonymous is the location, not the happenings. Hafferman said as long as the Council is informed, he is willing to withdraw the motion. The second concurred. Mayor Kennedy said she's uncertain about the additions to the Supplementary Regulations. She questioned the statement "Consideration shall be given to neighborhood compatibility", noting that the point of the ordinance is to allow the shelters in all zoning districts. Mayor Kennedy also questioned the requirement for periodic inspections, stating the City is not a licensing agency. Finally, she questioned the last statement, "Should issues arise within the neighborhood regarding the operation of the safe house the City of Kalispell shall make every reasonable effort to amicably resolve potential conflicts", asking why the City is resolving conflicts. Wilson said the planning board struggled with how to ensure the safe and compatible operation of the facility without violating the anonymity need. Larson agreed with the Mayor, stating he feels periodic inspections are not within the City's purview. Kenyon said he also feels the sentence on neighborhood compatibility "flies in the face of this being allowed anywhere in the City". He said you can't have it both ways. Kenyon moved to remove the planning board's additions: "Consideration shall be given to neighborhood compatibility"; "Periodic inspections shall be conducted to insure compliance with the terms of initial approval"; and "Should issues arise within the neighborhood regarding the operation of the safe house the City of Kalispell shall make every reasonable effort to amicably resolve potential conflicts". The motion was seconded. Peters commented he's not sure about striking the section on conflicts because that's actually included in the original text amendment and the only thing the planning board did is revise it. In addition, he said there may be a time the City wants an inspection. Mayor Kennedy pointed out there wasn't an original text amendment, this issue is brand new and staff developed the language the planning board amended. Hafferman stated he feels the planning board did a good job working out the problems and he feels the wording should remain as recommended. Wilson asked Brodehl to comment on the section referring to periodic inspections, explaining there are exiting issues dealing with the number of occupants. Brodehl commented these types of facilities are a critical component in communities, however, because of the need of high security they often see padlocks and other restraints on doors. He said they keep people from getting in, but they also keep people from getting out and periodic inspections by the Fire Department are very important to maintain safety. Mayor Kennedy asked Kenyon if he would be willing to modify his motion to state that "periodic fire and life inspections shall be conducted...". Kalispeli City Council Minutes March 7, 2005 Page 10 Kenyan agreed to modify the amendment by adding, "Periodic fire and life safety inspections shall be conducted to insure compliance with the terms of initial approval". The second concurred. Mayor Kennedy clarified the amendment now before the Council is to change the sentence on inspections and remove: "Consideration shall be given to neighborhood compatibility" and "Should issues arise within the neighborhood regarding the operation of the safe house the City of Kalispell shall make every reasonable effort to amicably resolve potential conflicts". Gabriel said she remembers the planning board discussing the sentence on conflicts for quite a while and the question was if the facility had a problem, who would they address it to? She asked Wilson to elaborate. Wilson noted the purpose for including that language was to avoid a problem from becoming a public issue. She said the goal was to be able to handle any problems internally and administratively without public exposure. The motion failed upon vote with Gabriel, Kenyon, Larson, and Mayor Kennedy voting in favor, and Atkinson, Hafferman, Herron, Olson, and Peters voting against. Mayor Kennedy asked if Council would be willing to add "fire and life" to periodic inspections. Larson moved to amend Exhibit A, Supplemental Regulations, to read: "Periodic fire and life safety code inspections shall be conducted to insure compliance with the terms of initial approval". The motion was seconded. The motion carried unanimously upon vote. Peters moved to amend Exhibit A by striking the sentence: "Consideration shall be given to neighborhood compatibility". The motion was seconded. The motion carried upon vote with Hafferman voting against. The main motion as amended twice carried unanimously upon roll call vote, G/5. ORDINANCE 1528 — PARKING ON EAST CALIFORNIA STREET 1ST READING This ordinance creates a no parking zone on the south side of East California Street between 7th Avenue East North and Sth Avenue East North. Peters moved first reading of Ordinance 1528, an ordinance to amend Section 1.7-54, Kalispell City Code, by prohibiting parking on the south side of East California Street between 7th Avenue East North and 8th Avenue East North, and declaring an effective date. The motion was seconded. Kalispell City Council Minutes March 7, 2005 Page 11 Patrick explained that on an inquiry from Hafferman, staff from the public works and police departments surveyed the area and determined that parking should be restricted to the north side of East California Street between. 7th Avenue East North and 8th Avenue East North, a distance of approximately 340 feet. Atkinson asked for additional information. Hafferman said this regulation will help offset a safety problem in the area. He said because of the parking on both sides of the street during the storm last winter, snow plows had to "weave to get one lane through that area". Hafferman commented it could also present a problem with garbage trucks and fire trucks and after discussing the issue with one of the neighbors, it was suggested that parking be limited to one side only. Atkinson asked if all of the residents in that area have been consulted. Patrick answered they have not. Atkinson said he feels uncomfortable voting for something the neighbors are not aware of. Olson said this is a problem all over town and he's concerned where all of these people are going to park. Patrick explained that the reason parking would be prohibited on the south side is because there are fewer cars on that side and because there are provisions for off-street parking. Olson asked why we are considering this now. Hansz stated there is some new construction at the corner of that street which provides some additional parking that wasn't there before. He agreed that a weaving situation with a plow or a grader could result in clipping a car, adding this is a problem all over town, but this is the one brought to the staffs attention. Olson said at this point he will have to vote against the ordinance because he agrees with Atkinson that the neighbors should be informed before the City prohibits parking. Herron moved to table Ordinance 1528 to the second meeting in April. The motion was seconded. The motion failed upon roll call vote with Herron, Kenyon, Olson and Mayor Kennedy voting in favor, and Atkinson, Gabriel, Hafferman, Larson and Peters voting; against. Olson moved that all neighbors be notified prior to the enactment of the ordinance. The motion was seconded. The motion carried upon roll call vote with Gabriel, Herron, Larson, Olson, Peters, and Mayor Kennedy voting in favor, and Atkinson, Hafferman, and Kenyon voting against. Kalispell City Council Minutes March 7, 2005 Page 12 The main motion as amended carried upon roll call vote with Gabriel, Hafferman, Larson, Olson, and Peters voting in favor, and Atkinson, Herron, Kenyon and Mayor Kennedy voting against. Gf 6. RESOLUTION 4986 —CALLING FOR THE SALE OF BONDS —FIRE STATION 62 This resolution authorizes the issuance and calls for the public sale of $3,000,000 in City General Obligation Bonds for construction of Fire Station #62. Larson moved Resolution 4986, a resolution relating to $3,000,000 General Obligation Bonds, Series 2005; authorizing the issuance and calling for the public sale thereof. The motion was seconded. Patrick explained the bonds were authorized by the voters on November 2, 2004. The bond sale will be held on March 21st at noon and Council will review the bids at the regular meeting that evening. Hafferman commented that the necessity for this bondage is due to poor planning; planning that should have been started twenty years ago. He said the Council needs to vote favorably for this in hope that future Councils use this as a lesson as to the need for planning. The motion carried unanimously upon roll call vote. G7. RESOLUTION 4987 — RESOLUTION OF INTENT— WHITEFISH STAGE SEWER INTERCEPTOR REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Staff requested authority from Council to advertise for RFP's to develop the sewer interceptor north on Whitefish Stage Road for the future development of the Two Rivers area. Herron moved Resolution 4987, a resolution of intent to develop Kalispell City sewer service infrastructure north of Reserve Street along Whitefish Stage Road and to solicit private investment in the project through a request for proposals. The motion was seconded. Patrick explained that property owners north of Reserve would like to develop their properties. After discussing the issue at a work session Council directed staff to develop a resolution of intent to proceed with the installation of sewer service north of Reserve along Whitefish Stage. He said the request for proposals is to determine whether there are developers interested in partnering with the City on the project. Responding to a public comment that the Council was to have received an economic feasibility study, Patrick said staff is working on that and it should be available shortly. Hafferman commented, "This may turn out favorably if a developer steps forth who wants to invest in the area. I can foresee a cooperative agreement made whereby the investor constructs the extension and the ratepayers use existing hook-up fees to enlarge the lift station and related force main at Laurence Park together with enlarging certain gravity sewer lines in the City proper related to the sewer to Rose Crossing. These are identified in the Facilities Plan. Apparently there is sufficient money in the hook-up fee account so the developer would not have to make these enlargement improvements and then have to wait until enough money could be collected in hook-up fees to Kalispell City Council Minutes March 7, 2005 Page 13 receive payback. That is the way our regulation now requires. With a commitment from a developer there will probably be enough ERUs hooked up to provide flow adequate to keep the low gradient lines free -flowing. Otherwise, running 12" to 1 S" sewers with low flows would be developing a maintenance problem. Whatever agreement, if made, needs to be in accordance with properly adopted regulations." Kenyon said he will vote against this resolution because he was swayed by the public comments. He said there are too many unanswered questions and he's not feeling as comfortable with this as he was a couple of weeks ago. Kenyon stated that on behalf of the public, "this is too much, too soon, and we ought to wait and find out from the County Planning Board what is going on". Olson stated the Council needs to establish the intent to develop. He said, "I believe that we're not going to lay a piece of pipeline down Whitefish Stage Road until we do have partners that want to become a part of the City and this system". Olson said the Council has had this discussion and he feels this has to happen or there's no reason to have an economic feasibility report. He said he's going to vote in favor of it and accept the words "intent to develop". Atkinson said Tri-City Planning Director Tom Jentz recently commented that communities can handle growth stress with a 2% growth per year, however, we are about 4.5%. Atkinson said what he felt this evening with the public comments is a lot of frustration and stress, unfortunately, growth is happening whether we're stressed or not and the major question is whether the City is going to be a part of that growth. He said he has always felt if an area is developed to urban density, then it ought to be in the City and served by urban services. Atkinson said, "we owe it to our greater community to do this`'. Larson agreed this is a step we need to take, but it doesn't mean. the Council wasn't listening to public comment because this is just one of a lot of steps to take forward yet. He stated the concerns expressed tonight were more about actually putting in the lines, and not about looking at proposals. Peters said he appreciated the public comments but he emphasized this is not an amendment to the growth policy. He said it is frustrating that the heart of the matter is whether to develop sewer service in the area and the comments centered around the master plan and growth policy amendment. Peters said he appreciates that eventually the Council may be discussing these issues, but right now the issue before the Council is a resolution of intent to develop sewer service north of Reserve. "Having said that", Peters stated the City didn't have a similar resolution of intent to develop when Owl Corporation wanted to run sewer lines to their development at Stillwater and Reserve. He said the developers paid for it themselves and this seems premature. Peters said normally developers are coming to the City and he feels this is a "huge shift in policy". Mayor Kennedy responded that Council members have been asked many times "why do we continue to allow developers to plan our future; and why don't we do planning; and why don't we look at where we believe the City should be growing or is growing and address that issue''. She said the Council is constantly talking about the City's regional sewer plant and if the City truly does have a regional sewer plant then this resolution is stating for the record that yes, we would look favorably at servicing a development along Whitefish Stage with our sewer plant. Mayor Kennedy stated it's the Council being proactive instead of reactive. Kalispell City Council Minutes March 7, 2005 Page 14 Kenyon disagreed, stating the Council isn't being proactive because "we had no inclination to move in this direction until Two Rivers came up" and it seems like the Council is doing more and more planning based on "inevitably and grim resignation". Kenyon said he is not opposed to going north, but he feels the Council needs more information from the staff and the County. Mayor Kennedy said she believes this is proactive because the Two Rivers amendment isn't before the City, it's before the County. This resolution simply states it's the City's intent that if that development does occur, it needs to be serviced by City sewer. Hafferman commented Mayor Kennedy's statement `-scares me because it seems to indicate that the City would be the one extending the line and that is against our growth policy". He said the City can be a partner because the City has an obligation to enlarge some of the facilities if development occurs, but the developer needs to pay for the lines. Hafferman said voting for this "scares me so I'm. going to vote against It". Mayor Kennedy said she didn't intend to scare anyone because the resolution is a resolution to solicit private investment. Herron said "this isn't a big secret". He said the utility services boundaries have been outlined; there's a rate study in place to upgrade facilities; and there are system development charges in place to upgrade the wastewater treatment plant. Herron said he was elected to care about the health, safety, and welfare of the people of Kalispell and the Flathead Valley and he's concerned about water duality. He stated "it's time that we stop having septic systems put into this valley and it's time that we step up and show our intent to sewer this valley". Herron asked what is wrong with moving a mile north of our City limits, adding "let's get our heads out of the sand and be ahead of the game for once". Atkinson remarked "if you are looking for a pair of shoes, and I have a pair of shoes to sell, then I'm going to let you know". He said this Council needs to make a decision to say "we have something to sell, are you interested", and that's all it is. Kenyon said he can't believe there is any developer associated with Two Rivers who doesn't know exactly where the City stands on this issue without having this resolution of intent. The motion carried upon roll call vote with Atkinson, Gabriel, Herron, Larson, Olson, and Mayor Kennedy voting in favor, and Hafferman, Kenyon, and Peters voting against. Gl8. RESOLUTION 4988 — PRE -DISASTER MITIGATION PLAN The Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 requires that local governments adopt a Pre -Disaster Mitigation Plan in order to be eligible to receive Federal grant dollars. Kenyon moved Resolution 4988, a resolution to adopt a Pre -Disaster Mitigation Plan pursuant to the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000. The motion was seconded. Patrick gave a staff report. Kalispetl City Council Minutes March 7, 2005 Page 15 Hafferman asked if there is any monetary contribution required from the City with the adoption of the plan. Patrick answered no contribution is necessary other than what the City may want to undertake in the future as far as different pre -disaster projects. The motion carried unanimously upon roll call vote. H. MAYOR/COUNCIL/CITY MANAGER'S REPORTS No Action Mayor Kennedy welcomed home the 639th and thanked the community for their support. Mayor Kennedy thanked Narda Wilson and the City Planning; Hoard for their work on the battered women's shelters and the Council for their consideration of the zoning text amendment. Patrick also thanked the community for the tremendous support it showed with the 639th homecoming. Patrick announced he will traveling to Helena on Thursday with Charles Harball to testify on Senate Bills 1.84 and 185 dealing with local option taxes and impact fees. I. ADJOURN The meeting was adjourned at 11:30 p.m. ATTEST: Theresa White City Clerk APPROVED MARCH 21, 2005 Kalispell City Council Minutes March 7, 2005 Page 16 U Z.'C �/'l�"�i`�~ /`"�-- fL�Z�'t-fir , � /%�,.��-� �'�'/>,�, ✓, n J 11 March 7, 2005 klood evenit-1.0 ­ayoT Kennedy and City CouncdMemhers. My name is Lex Blood. I live at 844 Third Avenue East in Kalispell. .1 would like to speak- to the issue of rebuilding and expansion of the Kalispell City Airport —to be financed i, a $1.9 million bond issue. 1 would like to acknodledge and thank Fred Lestiko.. Kalispell City Airport Manager, and Susan lMover, Director of Cornmunitv Development, for the time they spent in explaining this project to me Numerous other leaders in the private business sector of the community also provided valuable background and insights. I have been interested in the City Airport situation for the past 5 or 6 years. as various steps in the rehabilitation process have been studied and discussed. Discussions have usually involved a group consisting primarily of members of the Airport Advisory Board and the City Council and staff My previous questions and comments were directed toward the obvious and serious concerns of resident safety and noise. Both issues extend well beyond the physical limits of the airport, as we were reminded last August with the crash of a plane on the west side of Kalispell —Just four blocks from the High School, Even if low -flying planes don't crash, they always make noise that is particularly irritating in the high traffic period of summer, just as we're expecting to enjoy open windows and back yards. Somewhat less obvious, but very real, is that property values suffer in areas of diminished safety, security, and increased noise ---as those of us along Third and Fourth Avenues East are painfully aware. While safety and noise are important, they pale in comparison to issues that are shared by all -Kalispell residents --taxes, proper asset managenierit, and the city-s decision -making process. A decision to rebuild the City Airport will represent a massive misallocation of resources and an inappropriate subsidy, based upon incomplete ---or totally absent— econornic analysis. Let's look at the basics: I The airport land is owned by the City of Kalispell. It belongs to all taxpaying residents. The city presently receives no tax revenue from this land and a small amount from improvements. Is an airport its highest and best use? 2. This is a choice piece of real estate. The approximately 80-acre tract lies between the reconstructed U.S. 93) and Airport Road, with recently installed city utilities, and near to the potential Kalispell Bypass. The tract is approximately I mile lon,­., which is comparable to the length of Main Street from the north end of the Scarff auto dealership to the iunction of Highways 2 and 93). The width is the distance from I" Avenue East to I' Avenue West. /_ & X 3', 1,Cd,9 -1�'6 / 3. No recent real estate appraisal of the property is available, but a review of reports prepared for the airport reconstruction, and discussions with local realtors, indicates that the tract has a current value of $10 to $20 million dollars. Even taking the low -end value of S150 to $1.50 per square foot that was given in the 1999 Morrison-Mariele report, this yields a value in excess of $8 million dollars. This is no longer an 80-acre cow pasture on the far outskirts of Kalispell. =4. Today, with the exception of same improvements on the property, the city receives no tax revenue or net income from the present use. As a matter of fact, recent budget figures show the operation is a net cast to the city. If you had an asset worth, let's say, $10 million, wouldn't you expect even a minimum 3% or S300,000 annual return` 5. Despite oft -cited claims of significant, off -site revenue generation, no evaluation has been drone to quantify this. Airport backers contacted the Economics Department at FVCC a couple of years ago regarding conducting such an economic evaluation, but no study was drone. 6. The biggest gap in this entire scenario is that while there has been extensive study given to various sites for the airport, there has been no overarching evaluation of the best and highest use for this land. Such a process would include an economic evaluation of a number of potential development possibilities, including the present airport. With comparative information in hand, the eity and taxpayers can make an informed decision. A safe of any or all of this properiv would yield a double return —revenue from the sale and tax revenue from development. 7. There also seems to be a false choice put forward either this airport, at this location, or no city airport In reality, there are alternatives. One is basically a freebee---Glacier Park laiernati€anal has stated its ability and willingness to serve all the general aviation needs now furnished at the city airport. They are required to do so by federal regulations. In addition, several rather total relocations were considered by the Morrison-Mariele and Peccia reports. Each cast less, --up to cnn" less L_r e_ipoC! 47- A_L1aaU1 u Meconstruction and would �eceive L.A.:z 1111ucla€€ support as well, After a request by the city to GPI to manage the Kalispell airport, an internal report done for the GPI board also recommended a total relocation several miles south and east of Highway 93 to avoid many problems with tlae present site. This information was included in a letter to the city in 2004, with specifics of an offer to rnaraage such an airport. Any relocation would leave the city with a choice 819- acre parcel for sale or development. 8. Kalispell is the only city in Montana that is served by heath a large commercial aviation field and a general aviation field. This includes Missoula, Butte, Helena, Great Falls, Bozeman, .billings, Sidney, and West Yellowstone. Makes you wonder, doesn't it? What do they ]meow that we don't'? Or the reverse. 9, Has the city adequately assessed the opinions of city residents" As far back as 1997, Mr.Gabbert of the Airports District Office of the FAA in Helena, writing to Kalispell City Manager Krepps, cites the essential need for such assessment. A full and easily understood fact sheet and questionnaire should be circulated after the range ofalternatives is developed and economic cost./benefits of each have been evaluated, Taxpayers have a reasonable right to know and have a consequential voice In how their assets are being utilized —particularly in matters of such magnitude —both financially and for the future growth of the city, In sum, Pwould say that the city has a signifficant gap in its performance of due diligence with regard to the decision on the future of this tract of land and the potential costs and/or benefits to us all. You as the City Council are the trustees of the city assets. We, the taxpayers, expect and deserve a thorough evaluation of at', options before such commitments are made, 1,3L e- o �D - P1-- --� Glacier Park international Airport n if____7_ ^ nnnC TvIa cli l., LVVJ Mr_ Carl Feig 305 Forest Hills Village Kalispell, MT 59901 Dear Carl: This letter is an attempt to answer your questions about Glacier Park Intl Airport and the future plans of this facility. The answer to your question about whether Glacier Park Intl Airport desires general aviation growth is yes. Glacier Park Intl Airport is a full service facility and the airport Authority Board believes that we should remain a full service facility_ This means that we will continue to promote, develop and serve all facets of aviation activity. This includes commercial airline flights, commercial charter flights, corporate and general aviation activity. The Authority Board just recently approved a planning process due to begin within 45 days that will address where the growth of general aviation at Glacier Park Intl Airport should be. The most recent general aviation development that Glacier Park Intl Airport completed is filling up and a new area needs to be identified to meet the demand and growth of general aviation activity. If you have any fiu-tlier questions please feel free to contact me. Sincerely, F� Michael Daigle Airport Director Cc; C. Byrd Flathead Municipal Airport Authority 4170 ffivv. 2 as't ® Kalispell, MT -59901 - Phone (406) 257- 994 March 7, 2005 Kalispell City Mayor and Council P.O. Box 1997 Kalispell, MT 59901 Re: Kalispell City Airport Dear Mayor and. Council, I am the Past President of the Montana Pilots' Association and a member of the Montana State Board of Aeronautics. I commend you for your past support and vision which together has laid a solid foundation paving the way toward making the Kalispell City Airport a first class facility. I urge you to continue this support and vision by providing the necessary tools needed to develop this airport. This includes the necessary infrastructure. I conclude with the following points which I feel are relevant to the Kalispell City Airport: 1. It is an important and safe emergency alternate to Glacier International Airport (1~CA). 2. The FAA recognizes its importance and is willing to participate financially with the City of Kalispell to bring it up to recognized standards for long-term federal funding if certain conditions are met. 3. The Montana Department of Transportation, Aeronautics Division, through its Grants and Loan program has in the past financially supported this airport because it is an important asset to Kalispell and the to citizens of Flathead Valley. Respectfully submitted, CL Charles Manning 1145 1' Ave. East Kalispell, MT 59901 406-257-6262 From: cummings [cummings@digisys.net] Sent: Saturday, March 05, 2005 6:07 AM To: citycouncil@kalispell.com Subject: Public input for March 7 airport expansion meeting 3/5/05 Kalispell City Council, I would like to submit my opinion on the proposed city airport expansion project as part of the public input for your Monday, March 7th meeting. First, I support maintaining the city airport in its current location, at least for now. Although I haven't flown for many years, I learned to fly at this airport back in the 70s, and I think having a municipal airport with easy access to town is an economic benefit to our community. I am also not opposed to development of infrastructure to improve support to the airport's historic users, namely small aircraft pilots. With that said, I have to say I don't support expansion of the airport to accommodate larger aircraft such as jets. The typical single engine aircraft that currently use the city airport are not as disruptive to the surrounding neighborhood as jet aircraft would be. Larger, higher speed airplanes pose a greater hazard to the residential area than the smaller planes currently served by the city airport. I have mixed feelings about the current location. On the one hand, it doesn't make a lot of sense to move the airport way out of town (we already have Glacier International out of town), but houses have filled in around what were once open fields. My feeling is that the homeowners that have built up around the current airport can coexist with the clients currently served by the city airport. However, we shouldn't try to divert more of the larger planes from Glacier International to the city airport. Those who fly jets can certainly afford to rent a car to drive into town. We don't need a mini -Glacier International in town. The city airport should continue serving SMALL aircraft pilots. Sincerely, Chuck and Laurie Cummings 1002 4th .Ave. E. Kalispell, MT 59901 755-6596 1 From: Fred Kellogg [mailto:fwkellogg@hotmaii.com] Sent: Saturday, March 05, 2005 8:56 AM To: citycouncil@kalispell.com; cityattorney@kalispell,com; citymanager@kalispell.com Subject: Airport Bonds r']aar �irlAAariam I would like to submit two comments/concerns regarding the City Airport TIF Bond issue. Before describing them, I must acknowledge that in spite of last summer's tragedy, the current airport operations have not been objectionable to us and we live in the flight path. The users and managers of the airport should be commended for this, considering the proximity of the airport to residential areas. Firstly however, I would like to strongly object if there are any plans to allow significant increases in air traffic or even worse, to allow jet traffic into the airport at it's currently location. The reasons for this should be obvious. Secondly, I understand that the planning for the proposed expansion has not considered other possible uses for this land. If this is true, it seems irresponsible to me that major monies would be spent to upgrade the airport. My instincts should certainly not push a major decision but it seems to me that economically, it would be very attractive to move the airport from this location allowing better use to be made of the vacated land. There must be about 75-80 acres there with a value in excess of $10M, perhaps far in excess of this. Comparable amounts of land, or more, could be purchased elsewhere for significantly less money (or perhaps, the airport traffic could fit in nicely with the minimal commercial traffic at the big airport?) . Again, this is just my instinct, but to the extent this approach has not been thoroughly researched, I restate that it seems irresponsible to spend large monies on the existing location. Sincerely, Fred Kellogg 442 Fifth Avenue East Kalispell, MT 59901 fwkellogg@hotmaii.com 3/7/2005 From: Steve Eckels [mai1t©:ece1ss@sd5.k12.mt.us] Sent: Monday, March 07, 2005 9:36 AM To: citymanager@kalispell.com Subject: eckels/airport testimony RE: AIRPORT MEETING AS A RESIDENT ON SECOND AVE. W. I WOULD LIKE TO STATE THAT THE AIR TRAFFIC ABOVE OUR HOMES IS A PUBLIC NUISANCE. THE NOISE AND PROXIMITY OF THE AIRPLANES INTERFERES WITH THE PEACEFUL ENJOYMENT OF OUR PROPERTY. AS SUCH, I WOULD AGREE THAT THE PLANES SHOULD USE THE GLACIER FACILITY IF POSSIBLE AND THE CURRENT LAND BE USED FOR THE GOOD OF THE ENTIRE COMMUNITY RATHER THAN A SELECT FEW. PLEASE ENTER MY MAIL INTO THE RECORD AT THE MEETING TONIGHT. THANK YOU STEVE ECKELS 17. Public Nuisance - Any condition which endangers health or safety, is OFFENSIVE TO THE SENSES, or obstructs the free use of property, so as to interfere wt the comfortableenioyznent, of life roperty.by an entire community, neighborhood, or by any considerable number of persons 3/7/2005 From: Dan and Jean Paschke [paschkedj@montanasky.net Sent: Tuesday, February 22, 2005 8:44 PM To: citycouncil@kalispell.com Subject: airport expansion City Council Members, I have just heard that the possible expansion of the airport would include expansion that would allow jet airplanes to use the airport. I would like to register my objection to this expansion because of the effect on the surrounding neighborhoods. We don't need the noise or ,fly-overs" of these large planes in this area. Thank You, Jean Paschke 808 Woodland Ave. 1 From: meianie dardis [mjdardis@yahoo.comj Sent: Monday, March 07, 2005 9:09 AM To: citycounci@kalispell.co I am very concerned about the increase in the size and scope of the new airport. I believe that those who need jet service are well accomadated by using FCA. The downtown is residential and should remain thus. Most cities are working to move their airports from population centers, such as DIA ten years ago, not bring them in. .Melanie Darids Celebrate Yahoo!'s 10th Birthday! Yahoo! Netrospective: 100 Moments of the Web http://birthday.yahoo.com/netrospective/ From: Robyn Balcom [robynbalcom@yahoo.comj Sent: Monday, March 07, 2005 12:17 PM To: citycouncil@kalispell.com Subject: the proposed airport expansion Dear City Officials, From what I hear.... I can't imagine that expanding the existing "city airport" would be good for Kalispell - for our neighborhoods, for our children, for safety, for pollution (both air & noise), or for any good reason. In my humble opinion ... the city airport needs to MOVE somewhere else. We have a wonderful international airport c Hwy 2 that can more than handle the air traffic needs of this community. There are so many OTHER areas that should have a priority over this project in use of time and resources. Namely, traffic on Hwy 93... our public schools, and various other areas of our community that need urgent attention because o the rapid growth we are experiencing. PLEASE do not spend tax money or even "loan" tax money for any expansion. Who uses that airport? LET THEM PAY for their convenience. I live on the eastside of Kalispell. Our children were playing in the yard when they noticed the plane going down (back in the fall.) We were horrified to learn that the plane actually hit a house on the west side! Why are we not talking about .moving that airport further away from such a densely populated and rapidly growing area? Thank you for considering my comment. Sincerely, Robyn Balcom 1002 Sth Ave East Celebrate Yahoo!'s 10th Birthday! Yahoo_! Netrospective: 100 Moments of the Web 3/11/2005 From: Scott Lampshire [herennow@digisys.net] Sent: Monday, March 07, 2005 12:37 PM To: citycouncil@kalispell.com Subject: proposed airport expansion As a resident of East Kalispell I am OPPOSED to the proposed municiple airport expansion. This expansion can only diminish the quality of life and property values in the neighborhoods surrounding the airport. The benefits of such an expansion, while attractive, are outwieghed by safety and quality of life for all the residents in the area. I urge thecity council to deny the proposed airport expansion. Sincerely, Scott Lampshire Florance O'Neal 1304 5th Ave East Kalispell 756-3107 3/11/2005 From: Clarice Gates gardengate79@hotmail.com] Sent: Monday, March 07, 2005 1:16 PM To: citycouncil@kalispell.com Subject: Airport Inprovement and bonding T am concerned that you plan to bond certain improvements for the airport of which you say FAA will reimemburse 95% of certain costs: First there is no gaurantee that FAA will have the funds to reimburse as the Federal Budget is cutting many programs or limiting the amount available. Second, you have no plans on how to pay for the expenses of removing KGEZ towers. eo you plan to sell another bond to do this and the residents of Kalispell will have to pay for the bond? Third, Has a poll been taken on how few residents of Kalispell will use the airport? A few businesses might get a small portion of business from the people use the airport. Third, Can you prove that the airport will be self supporting if the expansion is done? Clarice M. Gates, 426 7th. Ave West, Kalispell, MT 59901 Phone (406) 752-1199 1 From: jpress@centurytel.net Seat: Monday, March 07, 2005 219 PM To: citycouncil@kalispell.com Subject: City Airport Expansion I am writing to ask you to postpone your decision on the $1.9 million TIF bond for reconstruction and expansion of the city airport. My reasons are: • This is not the best site --the density of development surrounding the present airport , both residential and commercial, makes safety and noise a concern, especially if more and larger planes (including jet aircraft) will be accommodated. • We already have another larger and better airport --Glacier Park International --that is able and willing to handle general aviation. Why spend even more money on a poor site? If we must, for some reason, have a second airport, are there other safer and/or less costly alternative sites? • This is very valuable property in a highly desirable location. It belongs to the city and therefore not on the tax rolls. Is this the highest and best use of this land? • No economic evaluation has been done to assess potential development alternatives, or the present airport use. We need to consider ALL the possibilities for development of this site and the financial implications for taxpayers. • No figures are available as to what the ongoing operational/maintenance costs will be to operate or maintain this expanded facility. We need more information before moving ahead on this project. Thank you for your consideration. Judith Pressmar 844 Third Avenue Fast Kalispell, MT 3/11/2005 From: Edward Sohl [cty21931 @centurytel.net] Sent: Monday, March 07, 2005 2:42 PM To: citycouncfl@kalispell.com Subject: City Airport Improvements Mayor and Council: March 7, 2005 City Airport Improvements I am presently opposed to spending any City money for expansion of the City Airport for the following reasons: • There is a safe, well -maintained, full -service airport within 10 miles. There is excellent air access to Kalispell, particularly considering its size. • The existing City Airport is unsafe, located as it is, directly adjacent to residential areas. The crash in 2004 was within 1 1, blocks of the High School. Many other high -occupancy locations are aligned with or scattered around the end of the runway; one, a church, was directly across the street from the crash site. This risk can't be significantly reduced by the modest realignment of the runway that is proposed. Let's not leave more lives to chance. • Given the small number of daily take -offs and landings and the small number of planes stored there, the City Airport does not broadly benefit local residents. It is more an occasional plaything for a few flying enthusiasts, • No credible analysis has been presented which quantitatively shows the increase in both City debt and operating costs, compared to whatever income the City Airport receives now and as a result of proposed improvements. It is one thing to spend "free Federal dollars" on an airport expansion, another to add more cost on top of already rapidly increasing City, County and School tax bills. This is a frill. No business person would accept the anecdotal, wave -of -the -arm justifications publicized to date. Give us some details. • Federal dollars are not free to begin with. There are better things to do with them. • In fact, if a City Airport could be justified, thought should be given to turning that franchise over to private investors, who could build elsewhere. This in turn could make a large area of land available for more appropriate close -in development, with the proceeds applied to City debt reduction. • Public opinion, measured by letters to the Editor and my own unscientific polling, appears to be strongly in favor of finding another use for the Airport property. Yours truly, Edward Sohl 533 Crestview Road Kalispell Ward I 3/11/2005