The Francis Town Council convened in regular session on Tuesday, May 20, 2008 in the Francis Town Recreation Building. Mayor John Bergen called the meeting to order at 7:05 PM.
Present: Mayor: John Bergen
Council: Greg Averett
Tim Butikofer
John Keyes
Lee Snelgrove
Town Clerk: Lynette Hallam
Attorney: Kraig Powell
Engineer: Scott Kettle
Planner: Alison Weyher
Others attending: Tal Adair, Eric Averett, John Barclay, Randy Butters, Scott Cusick, Eileen Dunn, Tom Flinders, Nella Longacre, Kristi Major, Gio Melendez, Chad Mitchell, Bruce Riches, Dorothy Sullivan, Cortni Swisher, Peter Swisher, Jane Wilford and Steve Zabriskie
Consent Agenda - Approval of Town Council minutes - 4/15/08 Council meeting
John Keyes made the motion to approve the consent agenda. Greg Averett seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Voting in favor: Mayor Bergen, Greg Averett, Tim Butikofer, John Keyes and Lee Snelgrove.
Park Employee - Possible approval for a summer park employee
Mayor Bergen reported he and Luke Thomas had some interviews earlier in the day with individuals who had applied for the summer park employee opening. The mayor recommended Lance Jensen to fill the position.
Lee Snelgrove motioned to approve the hiring of Lance Jensen as the summer park employee. Greg Averett seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Voting in favor: Mayor Bergen, Greg Averett, Tim Butikofer, John Keyes and Lee Snelgrove.
Mayor Bergen updated the Council on the pending property acquisition of the ground next to the Town Park. The mayor noted that a survey and title search has been ordered. An approaisal of the property is being arranged also.
Amended Land Use Agreement - Discussion and possible approval of an amended agreement for projected land use in connection with approval of River Bluffs Subdivision between Kit Burton, River Bluffs and Francis Town
Alison Weyher reported that in July, 2007, the Town Council approved a Land Use Agreement acknowledging River Bluffs Subdivision's approval to construct a road across the Wild Willow future commercial property while preserving Wild Willow's ability to construct a mixed use retail, residential and commercial development at that location in the future. The pending road construction has raised concerns about the improvements and future layout of the mixed-use development which are clarified in this amendment. In addition, a ‘bubble diagram' showing locations of proposed uses will be attached to the Agreement.
Previously, Wild Willow presented concept plans to the Town for a commercial, mixed-use development at this location. In November, 2006, the Town received a letter from Christopher Burton outlining plans for the commercial project to include a mixed-use "village" concept which would include housing, retail, a community center and other amenities. Because Wild Willow is providing the road easement across their property at this time for the River Bluffs subdivision they wanted assurances that when the commercial, mixed use development proceeds, the Town will acknowledge that they will not be required to move the road, utilities or other amenities which will be installed now. The Resolution passed by the Town Council in July, 2007 acknowledged this, however additional questions have been raised which are addressed in this amendment to the Agreement.
The River Bluffs Subdivision has received Final Plat approval, including public hearings at the Planning Commission and Town Council on numerous occasions. While the concept plan for the Wild Willow mixed-use development has been presented previously, specific information on the project will be presented when the development occurs. At that time the project will go through the entire Planning Commission/Town Council review process with appropriate public hearings.
Ms. Weyher outlined the specific additions/modifications to the Agreement:
1. The road will have 24 feet of pavement within the 60 foot right of way. The agreement currently calls for 30 feet of pavement. When completed, the right of way will include angled parking for the retail uses and parallel parking for the residential units as well as sidewalk and curb and gutter.
2. A gravel path will be installed along one side of the road at this time for pedestrian and equine access.
3. No fire hydrants will be installed on the Wild Willow property at this time.
4. Both sides of the road will be fenced with barbwire. Gates will also be installed on each side. This will enable to property to continue to be used for grazing.
5. It is understood by all parties that the sewer will not be installed at this time.
6. A water line will be installed across the commercial property as the road is constructed.
7. Culverts to handle run off will be installed as needed under the road.
8. Dry utilities will be installed in the future within the public right of way, based on the final development plans.
9. The final alignment of the road will be set following UDOT approvals.
10. It is understood by all parties that the commercial development will be a pedestrian oriented mixed-use development with an appropriate ratio of uses that may include retail shopping, office space, civic buildings, public gathering spaces and different types of multi and single family housing.
Alison Weyher recommended approval of the modifications to the Land Use Agreement adding that she believes this mixed use project will be an asset to the Town and the combination of uses will heighten the viability of the commercial development. Narrow streets with curbside parking are a proven traffic calming measure which will help mitigate speed through the development, while the variety of housing styles and types will provide a range of options for Francis residents.
Scott Kettle asked if the agreement could be changed to specify the road will be built to the town standards at the time of development.
Kraig Powell advised that the standards are specified, if those standards are changed it could change the agreement. Alison Weyher added the goal of the developer is to have a narrower road; if that changes, that might be a deal breaker. Scott Kettle opined in the future the standards may change; right now we don't have provisions for that size of road.
Kraig Powell indicated the negotiation for the Town on this agreement has not been easy, both sides have had to give some. In exchange for the grant of an easement, Mr. Burton has asked for the narrow width. When the development is done, the developer may want the road bigger; but he would like to set that in stone now.
John Keyes asked how legal it is to do something that doesn't meet our standards.
Alison Weyher stated this is a land-use development and a development agreement will be needed. Any multi-family planning requires development agreement. The Town has the leeway to put the requirements in the development agreement or land-use agreement.
Kraig Powell advised that this would be done as part of a development agreement for a commercial project. Mr. Powell opined the Town can do this because there is nothing like it in Francis now. The width of the road is one item the developer is firm on. Ms. Weyher said the developer did the bubble diagram instead of anything set in stone.
Mayor Bergen indicated this is the final step before River Bluffs subdivision can be recorded.
Lee Snelgrove stated that when Wild Willow was first approved the section of property at issue was to be all commercial. Kraig Powell advised he has looked at the original development agreement and the general language used then would allow this. Even with the new concept, the property does have to be primarily commercial in portions of the development.
Scott Kettle asked if the access roads are set in stone. Alison Weyher indicated they are not set in stone.
Kraig Powell directed the Council's attention to Page 2 of the Land Use Agreement which states construction in the mixed-use development will be constructed to the Town's construction standards at the time the mixed-use development is built unless specifically otherwise provided in this agreement. Mr. Powell offered some further clarification regarding the development of this project. The agreement before the Council is the same as the one previously signed except for a few changes.
John Keyes pointed out that the developer is proposing more residential units; residential use needs to have wider roads for the traffic that will be generated. Alison Weyher explained the only real change from the original concept plan is the horse arena has been taken out and some residential added. This change allows the Applicant to increase housing thereby supporting the commercial development. This provides a buffer between the River Bluffs affordable housing. Access is hard to predict at this time because there are no detailed plans. Two connection roads will solve some of the congestion.
John Keyes commented that the Council fought long and hard to get a 30-foot road in the Last Frontier commercial development. Mr. Keyes felt the Council should not set a precedent. If needed, the Code should be changed to address this type of situation.
Kraig Powell clarified that the 60-foot right-of-way in this project will be deeded and dedicated. On the side of the 24 foot road, the development will have walking areas and parking areas. Mayor Bergen agreed with the need to stay on top of town ordinance but pointed out that the national standard is 24 feet. The Town has required 30 feet because it was felt it was the best fit.
Lee Snelgrove asked with the proposed additional wording is the Town still locked into the 24-foot road. Kraig Powell answered, "Yes." Mayor Bergen added the balance of the 60-foot right-of-way would be used for parking. Alison Weyher stated the Applicant is planning curb and gutter in the entire project.
Councilor Snelgrove asked if this agreement is approved and the 24-foot road is locked in, what happens if someone else wants a 24-foot road. Kraig Powell didn't think it would be a problem. This case has considerations the Town is getting which would not warrant the same treatment in any other location. Mr. Powell said he would go so far as to say the Council could allow this only in the one place in town.
Tim Butikofer made the motion to accept the Amended Land Use Agreement with Kraig Powell's proposed amendments. Lee Snelgrove seconded the motion.
John Keyes asked for clarification; if the Council tables this, will it completely stop the River Bluffs development. Alison Weyher explained one of the points in the Development Agreement was completion of that road as of October, 2008. The River Bluffs' developers will tell you they want to get it moving. Mayor Bergen pointed out the Town wants the main water line to go through on that right-of-way from SR32; the water line is as important as the road.
The motion passed. Voting in favor: Mayor Bergen, Tim Butikofer, John Keyes and Lee Snelgrove. Abstaining: Greg Averett.
Discussion Item - Discussion and possible resolution of water line extension issues for Roy Atkinson and Shane Odenbach
Roy Atkinson and Shane Odenbach were not in attendance.
Public Hearing - Possible amendment to a Conditional Use Permit for Z-Rock at the Mitchell Gravel Pit to install a six-foot tall precast concrete fence around the property in place of the previously required landscaped berm
Kraig Powell indicated he had to be in Heber for a meeting at 8:00 PM and asked to be excused. Mr. Powell stated he had asked Alison Weyher and Scott Kettle to take detailed notes, and he will be able amend the CUP from their notes. Mr. Powell left the meeting at this point.
Alison Weyher covered her staff report on the CUP amendment stating that one condition of the CUP was that:
"the applicants must construct, at their own expense, a landscaped berm along Spring Hollow Road. The berm will be constructed in two portions. Portion 1, on the east of the existing pit will be constructed immediately upon execution of this Permit and prior to the Gravel Pit beginning operations. In the fall of 2007, to be completed by November 15, 2007, a second section of Portion 1 of the berm will be constructed along the property where the existing catch basin and Terry Thompson's operations are located. Portion 2 of the berm will include the property currently under cultivation, and will be installed when said property is taken out of cultivation. All berms will be 12 feet wide and three feet high and located on the Applicant's property adjacent to the Town right-of-way. Prior to construction of Portion 1 of the landscaped berm, the Francis Town Engineer and Planner will meet with the applicant to determine appropriate landscaping."
This item appeared on the April Planning Commission agenda for discussion only. While the Planning Commission took no official position, Council members were divided about replacing the berm with the fence. Two members felt that the landscaped berm could be installed using native plants and trees, including rabbit bush and sagebrush, which would require minimal maintenance, one Commissioner favored the fence, and two other members felt that neither the fence nor landscaped berm should be required.
Ms. Weyher' analysis and findings were that the goal of the landscaped berm was to provide a buffer between the gravel pit operations and Spring Hollow Road. The berm has been installed along Portion 1 of the gravel pit. It has been "roughed in" (rocks and dirt) along the second section. No landscaping has been installed to date.
The Applicant is proposing to install the fence along the southern portion of Spring Hollow Road, as indicated on the provided maps. The Applicant will also install a small section of fence at the entrance to the pit on Lower River Road. The portion of the property fronting on Spring Hollow Road which is not fenced will be landscaped in accordance with the CUP. The Applicant has stated the reason he wishes to install the fence is to provide a solid buffer that will be more visually appealing than landscaping on a berm; and he believes the berm will be hard to water and will become unsightly with weeds. The Conditional Use Permit requires "the Applicants will be required to possess and maintain sufficient water rights for all operations to be conducted at the Gravel Pit. The Applicants assume all responsibility for safe delivery of water to the Gravel Pit".
The Francis Town Development Code, section 3.7.2 states that "no fence, wall, hedge, planting or other structure extending into or enclosing all or part of the front or side yard setback area adjacent to a street shall be constructed or maintained at a height greater than thirty six inches. Therefore, the CUP must be amended if the fence is to be allowed. The Development Code, section 3.7.1 states "no fence, wall, hedge or structure in excess of thirty six inches in height above road grade which will prevent a clear view to drivers of approaching vehicles or pedestrians shall be placed on a corner lot within a triangular area formed by the street property lines and a line connecting them at points twenty five feet from the point of intersection of the street lines". While it appears that the walls along Spring Hollow Road meet this requirement, the Town Council may wish to verify that the proposed walls on Lower River Road also meet this requirement. Alison Weyher suggested the Applicant work with Scott Kettle and the County to get this approval. The Applicant is proposing to install the wall on the property line between the road right-of-way and the berm previously constructed.
Some items for discussion which were brought out by Alison Weyher were that while the proposed wall may provide a more effective buffer from the gravel pit operations, the Town Council may wish to consider if placing trees or other landscaping along the wall will help to break up the 500+ feet of concrete. The Town Council may also wish to ask the Applicant about the possibility of extending the wall to the north along the catch basin area and where the Thompson mulching operation is currently in existence to provide visual continuity. Last summer, Thompsons were notified that they are required to install a sight obscuring fence around the lumber storage area, pursuant to section 3.22 of the Development Code; this fence has not yet been installed. If Z-Rock and Thompson were able to work together to fence in this area it would resolve several concerns and enforcement issues.
Ms. Weyher continued that the Town Council may wish to ask the Applicant how and when he proposes to install the landscaping on the remainder of the berm and how he will provide water to that section. The Town Council may wish to ask the Applicant how he will control weeds and debris along the front of the wall and if the wall will have any impact on site drainage.
Alison Weyher agreed with the Applicant the six foot high fence may provide a better buffer than the landscaped berm, especially if the berm is not well maintained. However, there are concerns about the visual impact of a wall of this length. Trees and other landscaping could be installed in front of the wall to break up the impact, and the wall could be zigzagged with façade shifts to further soften its appearance. The wall should be extended the length of the property frontage on Spring Hollow Road, with the exception of the area still being farmed, this will help ameliorate neighbors concerns about the gravel pit and provide a more uniform appearance. In any case, Ms. Weyher believed that a date certain should be set for completion of the landscaping/fence, after which penalties will occur.
John Keyes commented his understanding was the thirty-six inch fence height requirement was in residential. Mr. Keyes opined the wall would hide some of what is going on; but enough sight distance would need to be provided.
Alison Weyher asked what areas should be fenced. John Keyes answered right now the proposed area for the fence is the only area that is in operation. Ms. Weyher pointed out they are using the catch basin. Ms. Weyher further stated that the fence requirement is found in Chapter 3 which deals with everything in Town. Mr. Keyes declared nothing can be put in by the mulch operation which will block the view of it from residents residing on the hill. Alison declared the CUP needs to be amended if the Town is going to allow something not allowed in the Development Code. The original goal was landscaping; that will not be the case here. Water is also a concern. The fence is a good idea but 500 feet of concrete is a long stretch of concrete. The Applicant is planning to construct a very small portion; it makes sense to make go all the way except where farming is still taking place. When the farming stops and the pit moves into that area, the Applicant will need to put the fence there.
Tim Butikofer understood what the CUP is trying to do, but he did not like the six-foot fence. The berm with trees would be a better way to go. If the berm doesn't do what it should, leave it the way it is. Mayor Bergen advised the berm is a condition of the CUP, we have to deal with it. Mr. Butikofer opined if the Applicant has to run water to plants along the wall, it would be better to get water for the berm.
Mayor Bergen opened the hearing for public comment.
John Barclay stated he was curious about a wall with trees in front, there would still need to be water for the trees.
Dorothy Sullivan if the berm has been required; isn't the problem now to enforce it? The Conditional Use Permit states it needs to have a berm with plants and water; the Applicant knew that. Mrs. Sullivan stated she didn't like the wall.
Jane Wilford opined what looks natural is the better choice. If everything on it is sagebrush and grasses why not have the berm.
Eileen Dunn asked why the requirements were not followed up on. Alison Weyher advised the Applicant got the berm roughed in last fall and then it started to snow. The spring has not been ideal for the work to go forward either. When the Staff went to the Applicant concerning the landscaping, he asked about the possibility of doing this wall.
Greg Averett commented he didn't want to see the Great Wall of China every time he goes along the road, but he did feel there should be some sort of barrier. The wall could be confined to the active pit area and at the entrance which would break up the sound somewhat. Mr. Averett did not want the wall on the total length of the road. Scott Kettle suggested as the pit progresses to the north, the wall could progress. Mr. Kettle felt the wall would be safer because it would be better able to keep a car or a child from going into the operation.
Tim Butikofer opined if the wall is put in, there will be a wall in the middle of nowhere. The Gateway Restaurant in Kamas has a good looking wall. This proposed wall would look out of place. Mr. Butikofer stated he doesn't hear that much noise from the gravel pit; the little noise is not worth a big wall.
Lee Snelgrove declared he would like to get some information from the Applicant. There is still going to be upkeep, even with a wall there will still be weeds, etc.
Steve Zabriskie clarified that he had put the berm in by November 15th as required by the Conditional Use Permit; both berms were in place. The first thing in the Spring, Mr. Zabriskie contended he had made phone calls about what would be required for landscaping. At that time the Applicant learned about the walls and approached the Town about the feasibility. Steve Zabriskie indicated he would put in gravel or asphalt between the wall and the road and would keep the weeds down. Scott Kusick, who was accompanying Mr. Zabriskie, added that they could put down a weed barrier. Tim Butikofer stated a weed barrier could be put on the berm. Mr. Kusick contended this is a decorative fence that is being proposed; it has a great commercial application. Mr. Kusick commented that dirt bikes are sometimes a problem in gravel pits; this will help to keep them out. Steve Zabriskie stated that at the bottom on Lower River Road, there will be one panel on each side so that the gate can be closed.
Greg Averett commented he wouldn't mind a small wall around the entrance of the gravel pit, but he would rather see the alfalfa and Thompson's mulching operation than a fence. This is a cost Town would never have to pay for.
Tim Butikofer advocated having the berm and a barrier put down to prevent weeds.
John Keyes opined if the Applicant goes with sagebrush, people will want trees. Greg Averett contended a three-foot berm is silly and a waste of time. It will still be able to be seen over, and nothing will have changed. Mayor Bergen outlined that the choice was between a three-foot berm vs. a sight-obscuring fence. The berm would not be sight-obscuring. Greg Averett felt the berm would be asking the Applicant to spend a lot of money to do something that doesn't give the desired result .
Greg Averett made the motion to allow the Applicant to put a wall around the construction area, Section A, B &C, as proposed by the Applicant. John Keyes seconded the motion.
Steve Zabriskie informed the Council he will landscape the Thompson's section now.
The motion passed. Voting in favor: Mayor Bergen, Greg Averett and John Keyes. Voting against: Tim Butikofer and Lee Snelgrove.
Tentative Budget - Discussion and possible approval of the tentative budget for fiscal year 2008-2009
Mayor Bergen detailed that this is a tentative budget which needs approval, it is only in draft form. The final budget will be presented next month.
Greg Averett commented some adjustments will need to be made to his water budget.
In reply to a public query, the mayor again pointed out this is only a tentative budget; the final budget will be available for public viewing next month.
Greg Averett made the motion to accept the tentative budget. Tim Butikofer seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Voting in favor: Mayor Bergen, Greg Averett, Tim Butikofer, John Keyes and Lee Snelgrove.
Discussion Item - Discussion concerning fire inspections for new building and rates to be charged
The mayor informed the Council that he and Eric Averett had attended an all-day training conference concerning fire inspections and sprinkler systems in buildings. Mayor Bergen reported most of the jurisdictions in the classes they attended used their own building inspector to do the inspections. The final inspection could be done on a contract basis. If the inspections are done "in house", the Town has a better continuity of what is going on.
Mayor Bergen indicated the fire department is charging a high fee. The Town has the building inspector going in already. The mayor added he had made contact with Paul Hayward who is licensed to do the final inspections. Eric Averett and Greg White have indicated this is a person they could work with. The Town Planner and Town Attorney were asked to work on structuring a fee. We have the figures from Park City and Midway which Eric Averett obtained in his research. Because the rate schedule is not presently in place, the LDS Church was instructed to go through the fire department. If the fire department does not get the inspections done, the Town will step in and get an individual to do it. The mayor asked for Council approval to move forward with a resolution concerning fees.
Greg Averett asked what structures were required to have a fire sprinkler system. Eric Averett said most jurisdictions mainly follow the State Building Code and the State Fire Code. The South Summit Fire Department requirements are more restrictive than even the State Fire Code. It is not needed to sprinkle residential buildings or 900 ft accessory building. Mayor Bergen opined that residents do not want sprinkling. Greg Averett agreed that the Town should be controlling these inspections and asked about the fee schedule. Eric Averett indicated the fee will go to the Town. Greg Averett suggested the Town meet with Kent Leavitt every once in a while. If Francis is going to do the inspections, the Town will charge the applicant a fee. The Town would have to pay an outside inspector to do the inspections. Eric Averett advised the only inspection which will be farmed out will be the final inspection.
Greg Averett pointed out that for the fire district to be able operate, it needs money; this is their attempt to get some money to do improvements. Mayor Bergen voiced his support of the fire department, but this is a separate issue that needs local control.
Mayor Bergen indicated our inspector needs to go in and do what he is certified to do; the fire department is not certified.
Lee Snelgrove commented the Town fees need to cover what has to be paid for the inspections.
Tim Butikofer questioned if homes are required to have sprinkler systems. Eric Averett the requirement mainly applies to commercial buildings. Mr. Averett suggested following State Fire Code and State Building Code; the local fire district was going to require more.
Lee Snelgrove made the motion for approval to move forward with a resolution concerning fees. Tim Butikofer seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Voting in favor: Mayor Bergen, Greg Averett, Tim Butikofer, John Keyes and Lee Snelgrove.
Planning Commission Vacancy - Possible approval of individuals to fill the vacancies on the Planning Commission
Mayor Bergen reported that he, Alison Weyher, Susan Cann and Susan Moses had interviewed the candidates who expressed interest in serving on the Planning Commission. The mayor recommended that Dorothy Sullivan and Peter Swisher be approved to serve on the Francis Town Planning Commission.
John Keyes motioned to approve Dorothy Sullivan and Peter Swisher for appointment to the Planning Commission. Lee Snelgrove seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Voting in favor: Mayor Bergen, Greg Averett, Tim Butikofer, John Keyes and Lee Snelgrove.
Mayor Bergen recommended Gio Melendez to serve as an alternate on the Planning Commission, attending all meetings and standing in when a Commission member is unable to attend.
John Keyes made the motion to approve the appointment of Gio Melendez as an alternate on the Planning Commission. Lee Snelgrove seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Voting in favor: Mayor Bergen, Greg Averett, Tim Butikofer, John Keyes and Lee Snelgrove.
Department Reports
Mayor Bergen stated there will be two resolutions to be approved next month. The first is an Interlocal Agreement resolution which the mayor asked for input concerning it before next month's meeting. The second is a resolution asked for by John Bennett from the Governor's Office of Budget. This is a program which has received no money in the last two years. The resolution will be sent to the Council of Governments, and COG will add their emphasis and turn it into the legislature to ask that they put forward the money as has been done in the past.
During last month's meeting with County Commissioners, Mayor Bergen reported Public Works wanted to terminate municipalities' snow removal contracts which would affect Oakley and Francis. The Francis Town truck appears to be the right size to do future tracts that will come on line. Luke Thomas is already snow plowing Uinta Shadows. The mayors asked the County to continue as in the past for the next year. As housing tracts come on line, as they foresee happening in Francis, the Town will have to assume snow plowing on those. The mayor suggested the Town could do a contingency sub contract until it is felt there is enough work to warrant a second employee to do snow removal. Another suggestion from the mayor was to rent an employee from companies that would not be working during the snow storms to supplement the snow plowing. The three new housing tracts will have to be 50 per cent complete before snow removal will be assumed by the Town. Greg Averett opined that Francis needs to do the work and not contract it out
Mayor Bergen commented he had attended both irrigation company water meetings - South Kamas and Washington Irrigation. The irrigation companies are starting to charge $500 up front for change applications to cover engineering costs etc. If it exceeds that amount the Applicant will be asked to pay the difference. The irrigation companies are proposing an umbrella company; which would have 3,000 acre-feet of water to be put into municipal and industrial use. That water can be used to replace water needed to transfer into the wells. The companies are asking the Town to participate. The mayor asked Alison Weyher to keep up to date on what is happening.
Indicating he had attended nine different meetings during the past month, Mayor Bergen asked for approval to be paid for attendance at one all-day meeting.
John Keyes made the motion to approve payment to the mayor for one all-day meeting. Greg Averett seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously. Voting in favor: Mayor Bergen, Greg Averett, Tim Butikofer, John Keyes and Lee Snelgrove.
Alison Weyher reported on the research she had completed concerning speed trailers. Kustom Cart is the best but also expensive. Ms. Weyher stated she had gone over bids Luke Thomas had received. Park City Police have several Decatur carts. Summit County Public Works recommended education and traffic calming measures over radar trailers; but they are installing permanent boards. Francis Town would be eligible to purchase the trailers through the State bid process. Ms. Weyher recommended the Decatur trailer.
Alison Weyher indicated Lt. Richey had expressed willingness to work with us and allow Francis to park the trailer on SR32 and SR35. Moving the trailer is a good thing to make it more effective.
Greg Averett declared he is not fighting the trailer, but asked why the Town would need to purchase one if the County Sheriff and Highway Patrol's trailers can be used for free. Alison Weyher expressed there will probably be a slow down on the support coming from those resources.
Alison Weyher asked for direction from the Council regarding Jake Brakes. In the neighborhood meetings this is an issue that continued to come up. Sheriff Edmonds said that the violator's license plate number could be tuned in to the Sheriff's Department. Another option would be to call the Safety Compliance Officer of the trucking company and ask for cooperation. Ms. Weyher felt these were options if the Town decided to pass a jake brake ordinance.
Mayor Bergen interjected that within the last two weeks motorcycles have been speeding through Town Park. The mayor expressed the desire for 5 mph speed limit signs in the park. John Keyes agreed that something needs to be done. The Council approved getting the necessary signs. The mayor also stated the "No Overnight Parking Without Permit" signs should be installed
Lee Snelgrove opined that passing a jake brake ordinance would be asking for trouble. The residents can't always get the license plate number when the truck is passing. Then it becomes a he said/she said situation. It is a big issue that cannot be enforced. Mr. Snelgrove stated he would rather not do it.
Greg Averett commented he didn't think there was a hill in town that needs jake brakes. Lee Snelgrove felt the Sheriff's Department would have an issue in identifying whose truck is violating. Mr. Averett declared they put up signs in Kamas, and he hasn't heard any trucks use their Jake brakes. Mr. Snelgrove said he has, and some truckers have fought the law that restricts Jake brakes. Lee Snelgrove, Tim Butikofer and John Keyes all voiced opposition to the signs. Lee Snelgrove suggested residents can still call the trucking companies and ask them to do something about it.
Scott Kettle made a comment about the radar trailers. Mr. Kettle asked if there would be the ability to shut off at certain limits. The signs can be an incentive for kids to see how fast they can go on their bikes which could cause a hazard. The sign also needs to be able to be moved. Tim Butikofer suggested having the County and Highway Patrol Traffic Divisions do as much as they can and try that for this summer. Lee Snelgrove suggested sending a letter to the Sheriff and Highway Patrol voicing recognition and appreciation for their efforts. Tal Adair suggested doing a little of everything, the trailer and enforcement.
Councilor Snelgrove reported the Lions Club had contacted him about putting in some trees in the Town Park along with the help of Tree Utah. Mr. Snelgrove indicated he had turned the project over to Eric Adair to do as his Eagle project. The Town ended up getting seventeen trees. Tree Utah required a drip irrigation system be put in to sustain the trees. Several volunteers helped complete the planting. Donations were received from Home Depot and Leavitt Lumber, Ure Dairy provided the compost, Tree Utah and the Lions Club supplied the threes. Mr. Snelgrove indicated they had run a line to the horseshoe pit and put in a frost-free hydrant. Tree Utah had indicated this is biggest project so far and the best. The project was started at 7:15 AM on Saturday and completed by 1:00 PM. John Barclay praised Eric Adair's job of managing the project.
Lee Snelgrove recounted he is planning repairs on the roof of the pavilion on the recreation building. Mr. Snelgrove also advised he was planning to put a single door in on the southwest side of the recreation building and put a double door in the north corner. A dormer will be put over the pavilion to help with the snow load. To fix the roof, the doors, paint, etc. it would cost about $23,000.
Tim Butikofer reported he had talked to Scott Kettle and the sewer study will be completed next month.
John Keyes reported he had ridden through the Town with Scott Kettle to access the needs for the road department. One section of road will be chip sealed this Fall. The necessary crack seal will be completed this spring; the cracks are opened up farther in the spring which allows the sealant to get down in the cracks. One area in Wild Willow with bad cracks will be dug out and the section will be redone. Mr. Keyes stated the asphalt will be raised to get rid of the swale on intersection o Springhollow and SR32 and SR35.
Greg Averett stated the water department will do some hydrant work this year. Mr. Averett said he will discuss the hydrants with Scott Kettle; a lot of them will be paid for by developers. Luke Thomas has a schedule set up for exercising the fire hydrants.
Lee Snelgrove commented that Luke Thomas has said there are some issues in the recreation building with alcohol, and suggested the Town prohibit alcohol use in the building. Mayor Bergen voiced a concern if such a prohibition would affect the cowboys during Frontier Days. Lynette Hallam stated the renters have been told in the recent history that if there are beer bottles or cans in the park, they will lose their deposit. It seems to have helped. It was decided the agreement which is signed when the building is rented should be adjusted to reflect that this action will be taken.
Approve payment of bills and Adjourn
Lee Snelgrove motioned to approve payment of the bills and adjourn. Tim Butikofer seconded the motion. The motion passed.
The Francis Town Council meeting adjourned at 9:45 PM.
These minutes were approved at the June 17, 2008 Council meeting.