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Minutes - City Council - 09/04/2018
CITY COUNCIL 4 SEPTEMBER 2018 The South Burlington City Council held a regular meeting on Tuesday, 4 September 2018, at 6:30 p.m. in the Conference Room, City Hall, 575 Dorset Street. Members Present: H. Riehle, Chair; M. Emery, T. Barritt, T. Chittenden, D. Kaufman Also Present: K. Dorn, City Manager; T. Hubbard, Deputy City Manager; A. Bolduc, City Attorney; I. Blanchard, Project Manager; E. Fitzgerald, School Board; J. Murray, Librarian; H. Rees, Recreation Department Head; P. Leduc, Chair and other Members of the Library Board of Trustees; J. Kochman, Chair of the Parks & Recreation Committee; M. Van Ohlsen, D. Bugbee, S. Dopp, S. Dooley, B. Wilson, B. Sirvis, J. Simson, M. Mittag, W. Daum, F. Burkhardt, L. Freeman, D. Albrecht, D. Zeller, C. Pizer, other members of the public 1. Instructions on exiting building in case of emergency: Mr. Dorn provided instructions on emergency evacuation of the building. 2. Agenda Review: Additions, deletions or changes in order of agenda items: Mr. Dorn asked to add to Other Business a grand request from the Community Justice Center. 3. Comments and Questions from the public not related to the agenda: Ms. Zeller addressed the Council on behalf of the nurses at the Medical Center. She said the situation is getting to a very serious point and stressed that the Hospital belongs to the people of Vermont. She presented a “open letter to the hospital” and asked the Council to put it on their next agenda. Mr. Pizer echoed Ms. Zeller’s comments and cited the role nurses play in the community. He stressed the need for both sides to come to an agreement. Ms. Riehle said the “open letter” will be put on the 17 September agenda. 4. Announcements and City Manager’s Report: Council members reported on meetings and events they had attended in recent weeks. Mr. Dorn: The Sound Committee held a very informative meeting. He noted some confusion between that committee and the Technical Advisory Committee There will be an Open House at the Chittenden Methadone Clinic to discuss issues including ways to move people in and out. Over 900 people are being treated. He and Ms. Blanchard briefed George Twigg regarding City Council and City issues. All committee appointees have been notified. The City was honored to host the Governor last week. Special recognition was given to City Clerk Donna Kinville for the new technology related to real estate recording using block-chain. A meeting was held with Cathedral Square representatives to discuss parking and access issues since Allard Square is in its final stages. Mr. Dorn will be the guest speaker at the newly formed Kiwanis Club on Thursday. The SBBA will meet at Magic Hat next Wednesday. Mr. Dorn cited the success of SoBu Nights Out. Ms. Riehle noted that many drivers do not stop to allow passage of emergency vehicles on response. She stressed that the law requires drivers to pull over and stop. 5. Consent Agenda: a. Approve and Sign Disbursement b. Approve Minutes for 6, 13, 15 and 20 August c. Approve Award of Pinnacle Stormwater Project Construction Contract and Stormwater System Agreement & Irrevocable Offer of Dedication d. Consider request for issuance of in-kind road improvements impact fee credit for 310 Market Street Mr. Kaufman moved to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. Mr. Barritt seconded. Motion passed unanimously. 6. Public Hearing on a Potential South Burlington Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District Financing Plan Substantial Change Request: Ms. Emery moved to open the public hearing. Mr. Kaufman seconded. Motion passed unanimously. Ms. Blanchard noted that the request related to the City Hall/Library/Senior Center building. She reviewed the history of TIF financing and noted that because of the change in cost figures the city would get less from TIF financing. This request would adjust the cost estimate amounts and the maximum amount of TIF financing. Ms. Blanchard then enumerated some of the other sources of funding for the proposed new municipal building including revenues from the solar array, impact fees (roadway), the Blanchette Fund (Library), and a capital fund-raising campaign by the Library Board of Trustees. This funding would reduce the amount of debt. The resulting remainder of debt would be $20,400,000. Ms. Blanchard noted that the City Council’s established Capital Reserve Fund would level out the contribution by the taxpayers and is estimated to result in $15,000,000 (based on an annual contribution of $736,000). Other sources of funding (e.g., Library campaign, new impact fees, etc.) would reduce the amount of the debt. Ms. Kochman explained why the Senior Center costs are less than originally anticipated noted the elimination of such things as a basketball court. Ms. Blanchard suggested asking VEPC for a $7,500,000 increase. Ms. Riehle asked if this is typical for a TIF district. Ms. Blanchard said it is. She said the hope is to do this as a “minor correction” as it isn’t a big change within the context of the plan. Ms. Riehle asked what the anticipated response time is for the request. Ms. Blanchard said they will start the discussion this week and probably submit the request next week for consideration in the following month. She noted that VEPC has the power to make a quick decision. Mr. Chittenden asked how the 33% increase is explained. Ms. Blanchard said land costs are now based on gross square footage and are more. There are also land constraints which involve additional site work. The separate elevator of the City Hall portion of the building was an added cost. Ms. Blanchard also noted that administrative costs can be reimbursed from the TIF once other costs are paid. They would not contribute to the amount of the debt. As there were no Council or public comments, Ms. Emery moved to close the public hearing. Mr. Chittenden seconded. Motion passed unanimously. 7. Continue Pubic Hearing regarding the placement of a question on the November ballot regarding the issuance of debt, including TIF District Financing, to construct a Library, Senior Center and City Hall and other facilities at 180 Market Street: Mr. Chittenden moved to reopen the public hearing. Mr. Barritt seconded. Motion passed unanimously. A member of the public asked what the “other facilities” are. Mr. Dorn said they include parking, the City Clerk’s office, hallways, and Auditorium. Ms. Blanchard reviewed the Debt Service Schedule and the Cost Assumptions for Bond Calculations. The total estimated bond debt is $20,439,938.00. Mr. Dorn stressed that this figure does not include TIF income from other developments (e.g., UMall, Chastenay property, San Remo Drive, etc.). These increments will be added into the fund as the years go on. Mr. Chittenden noted that there is an anticipation that the city will get plenty of TIF income to cover the project. Ms. Blanchard noted that bond payments would be interest only for the first 5 years. The estimate is that by 2022 the city would receive the additional funding to cover the debt. The city will be allowed to keep that money until the debt is paid off. Mr. Dorn noted the city has 3-1/2 more years in which to incur debt, and then the door closes. Ms. Blanchard explained that the City Council had established a reserve fund with the intention of keeping the annual contribution level. There is already $3,460,000.00 in that City Center reserve fund as of 1 July 2018. Ms. Blanchard also explained that they are showing an annual contribution of $736,000.00 because that is the level needed so there would be no increase in the tax rate. That amount could be increased and has been higher in recent years. Ms. Blanchard noted that the debt payment for FY2020 will come from the reserve fund as will the following year’s payment. As time goes on, the annual payment gets closer to the contribution level, and eventually the reserve fund will get rebuilt. Ms. Blanchard also noted that developers have been coming in to discuss potential City Center projects. Ms. Riehle said there would have to be a crisis in the next few years for developers to say “no more.” Mr. Kaufman added that it is important to note a “worst case scenario,” though it is not at all likely. Mr. Burkhardt said his questions have been answered. He added that he would be more comfortable to say we are spending down the $3,000,000 plus we have been saving for this. Public comment was then solicited: Mr. Wilson thanked the Council for this plan and for supporting his youth programs in the past. He noted the new Library will have spaces for youth including social media rooms, project rooms, hi-tech, etc., that will draw young people to the Library. He cited a recent jewelry-making project for kids and families at the Library at the Mall that drew large numbers of people. He felt it was a perfect location as the High School is right down the street. Mr. Freeman also thanked the Council for this project. He acknowledged that taking on debt is a serious thing, but he felt capital investment was wise and forward-thinking. He noted that people come to the city from all over the country because this is a vibrant community with strong underpinnings. He also felt that Libraries are the “arsenals of democracy,” and it is vital to invest in the future of youth and seniors. He said the building will be an anchor for City Center and will generate revenue for decades. He urged the Council to put it on the ballot and let the people vote for it. Mr. Leduc, Chair of the Library Board, said a Library is a “center for democracy,” a place where everyone is equal, and where people connect and learn. He said the Board is fully behind the project, and the fund-raising committee is ready to do what it can. Mr. Daum asked how many cars will be able to be parked. Mr. Dorn noted there is a required minimum which will be met. He noted increased parking arrangements with the School and other lease arrangements. Mr. Daum also asked whether the amount included furnishings and a contingency amount. Ms. Riehle said “yes” to both. Mr. Daum asked for confirmation that it won’t cost taxpayers more than they are paying now. Ms. Riehle said that is the beauty of Tax Incremental Financing. Mr. Daum then urged the Council to “get the word out.” Ms. Dopp agreed with Mr. Daum. She asked whether Library and Recreation people felt anything important was abandoned when ‘reality set in.’ Ms. Murray said the Library has gotten exactly what it needs. Mr. Rees agreed on behalf of the Recreation Department. Mr. Kaufman asked how many Library members there are. Ms. Murray said about half the city’s population. He asked if Library people could encourage those members to support this. Mr. Dorn said there is a limitation on what staff can do, but there is no limitation on what the Library Board of Directors can do. Ms. Murray said the Library can do education through events, calendars, bookmarks, etc. Mr. Leduc said the Board will do more. Mr. Albrecht said he was still concerned about the need for the City Hall space and with growth of government. He acknowledged there are arguments to be made for centralization. He was also concerned with a public-private partnership with the arts group. Ms. Riehle stressed that partnership is not part of this plan though it had been discussed at one time. Ms. Fitzgerald cited the variety of funding sources and felt that was a positive but “moving” thing. She urged the Council to really vet the project before it goes to the voters. She also encouraged a united front to the voters. Ms. Kochman noted this is the result of so many efforts. She also noted the staffs of both the Library and Recreation Department do an incredible job in much less than ideal circumstances. Facilities, especially indoor facilities, are the issue, and this project is the chance to address that. Mr. Burkhardt said his family is ecstatic about a new Library. He felt this is the spot for the community to come together. He said that personally he would like more Library space and not a City Hall. Ms. Dooley cited the functions of the City Clerk’s office (e.g., elections, tax collection, real estate recording, licenses, etc.) which will bring people to City Center. She felt this will be a 100 year building. She saw City Hall as much of a magnet as the Library to draw people to City Center. She also noted that challenge of adequate vault space for the City Clerk and said it was a prudent decision to include City Hall in this plan. Ms. Sirvis said if the city doesn’t do this, she wants her money back. She cited the need to move forward on an “act of faith.” Taxes won’t got up for this, and the city should build something to be proud of. Mr. Kaufman then moved to close the public hearing. Mr. Barritt seconded. Motion passed unanimously. Mr. Chittenden said he was glad to hear what people said. He agreed with the need for a Library and that the best place for it was in City Center. He also saw the need for the Senior Center to address a need that has been neglected for too long. He was not convinced about the need for a new City Hall. He felt it was too much for a small lot. He was also concerned with cost and that it might crowd out other priorities. He added that his higher priority would be for a pool. He said he would not vote against the project but would abstain. Ms. Emery felt that Mr. Chittenden’s concerns have been answered for her. A Library alone would cost $18,000,000. That realization convinced her to support this project. She noted that a City Hall was included in the visioning meetings and was supported by the public. She felt the city was “getting three for almost the cost of one” with this project. She wanted to see a building the city can be proud of and noted that people have been asking for this for decades. She felt the proposed building will serve 5 generations and will spur City Center development. Mr. Kaufman said he is 100% on board. He could not think of a town where the City/Town Hall is not in the City Center. He was not worried about economic development which he felt was already in the works. He stressed that costs will only go up if there is a delay and procrastinating won’t get the city anywhere. Mr. Barritt said he supports the Library but not a City Hall. He didn’t feel this was the spot for a Library. He said he would vote no. Ms. Riehle said she is a very strong supporter of the concept and cited the multiple community visioning meetings. She noted they originally began with 3 separate buildings, which was very expensive. Eventually, they came to this plan which she felt is right-sized to meet the needs and capability of the city. She stressed that the numbers quoted are very conservative. She also noted that voters supported the TIF 2-1, and felt it would be a real mistake not to take advantage of TIF financing to meet the needs of the city. She felt the project is vital to a successful downtown. 8. Consider and possibly approve necessity resolutions for borrowing and warn a special city meeting on November 6 for vote by Australian ballot questions related to the issuance of debt including TIF District Financing for a Library, Senior Center and City hall and other facilities at 180 Market Street as well as a separate ballot article on possible lease and option for conveyance to the South Burlington School district for the municipal building located at 575 Dorset Street, as well as a third article on issuance of debt related to a Kennedy Drive stormwater project from the State of Vermont’s Clean Water State Revolving Fund: Ms. Emery moved that the Council approve necessity resolutions for borrowing and issuance of debt for the Municipal Building. Mr. Kaufman seconded. Motion passed 3-1 with Mr. Barritt voting against and Mr. Chittenden abstaining. Ms. Emery moved that the Council warn a special city meeting for November 6, 2018 for vote by Australian ballot questions related to incurring bonded debt for the Municipal building as well as a separate ballot article on the possible lease and option for conveyance to the South Burlington School District for the municipal building located at 575 Dorset Street, provided, however, that the City and School District agree to terms. Mr. Kaufman seconded. Motion passed 3-1 with Mr. Barritt voting against and Mr. Chittenden abstaining. Members then considered the inclusion of ballot items relating to the Kennedy Drive Stormwater Project. Mr. Bolduc noted that 100% of the debt will eventually be reimbursed by the State. Mr. Kaufman moved to add the words to be reimbursed “…by the State of Vermont” to the language of the motion for the Stormwater project. Mr. Chittenden seconded. Motion passed unanimously. Ms. Emery then moved that the Council approve the necessity resolutions for borrowing and the issuance of debt for the Kennedy Drive Stormwater Project and to add same to the November 6 ballot. Mr. Kaufman seconded. Motion passed unanimously. 9. Consider and possibly approve a request to submit a Substantial Change Request to the Vermont Economic Progress Council relating to the South Burlington Tax Increment Financing District: Mr. Kaufman moved to approve the request to submit a Substantial Change Request to the Vermont Economic Progress Council relating to the South Burlington Tax Increment Financing District as presented. Ms. Emery seconded. Motion passed 4-1 with Mr. Barritt opposing. 10. Consider and possibly approve a Council resolution calling for the United States to “Pull Back from the Brink” and Prevent Nuclear War: Ms. Riehle noted she and several others had met with Dr. Ruewer on this issue. Dr. Ruewer said he is a retired emergency physician and has become involved in nuclear war issues. He reviewed the history of a reduction in nuclear weapons and the now increasing danger because the U.S. is going to spend millions on nuclear weapons. Dr. Ruewer said saying these weapons will never be used is “magical thinking.” He noted that 2 atomic bomb survivors will be in the County in the next few weeks and will speak at various sites including South Burlington High School. Mr. Barritt cited the number of accidents with nuclear weapons. He supports the resolution though he did not know how much good it will do. Mr. Chittenden said his only concern was staff time in forming a commission . He would prefer a multi-community group of which South Burlington could be a part. Mr. Kaufman felt this should be more of a state action and would vote to ask the state government to take action. Ms. Riehle cited the need for a grass roots campaign and suggested adding a line to the resolution to send it to the Governor and State Legislators. There will be an amended resolution for the Council to vote on at the 17 September meeting. 11. Consider and possibly approve adding an item to the November 6 special city ballot, stating “Shall the voters of South Burlington advise the Governor and the Vermont General Assembly to support raising the age of sale of tobacco products in Vermont from 18 to 21 years of age?”: Ms. Riehle noted this would require a separate hand-counted ballot in November. She said it could be on the regular ballot in March. Members agreed to the March ballot. Mr. Chittenden moved to place the proposed language with regard to sale of tobacco products on the annual city meeting ballot in March. Mr. Kaufman seconded. Motion passed unanimously. 12. Councilors’ reports from Committee assignments: Mr. Chittenden noted the upcoming retreat for the Green Mountain Transit Committee. Ms. Riehle will email her Airport Commission meeting report to members. Members agreed to discuss potential recreation facilities on Dorset Street and/or Veterans Park at an October meeting. 13. Other Business: a. Items Held from Consent Agenda b. Other Mr. Dorn noted a grant request form related o the “Voice of Victims...” project. There is no city match for the $20,000 grant. Members were OK with the Chair signing the request. 14. Executive Session: Ms. Emery moved that the Council make a specific finding that premature public knowledge of the confidential attorney client communications with the City Attorney made for the purpose of providing professional legal service to the public body would put the Council at a significant disadvantage. Mr. Chittenden seconded. Motion passed unanimously. Ms. Emery then moved that upon so finding the Council enter into executive session to discuss confidential attorney-client communications with the City Attorney, and, to discuss real estate transactions of which the City is a party. Mr. Chittenden seconded. Motion passed unanimously. The Council entered executive session at 10:11 p.m. and resumed open session at 10:29 p.m. As there was no further business to come before the Council, Mr. Chittenden moved to adjourn. Mr. Barritt seconded. Motion passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 10:30 p.m. Published by ClerkBase ©2019 by Clerkbase. No Claim to Original Government Works. South Burlington Water Dept. Accounts Payable Check Register Date: 09/05/18 Date Check No. Paid To Memo Amount Paid 9/5/2018 3432 FirstLight Fiber 42.70 Date Voucher Number Reference Voucher Total Amount Paid 8/15/2018 VI-14617 4321696 42.70 42.70 9/5/2018 3433 Office Essentials 229.00 Date Voucher Number Reference Voucher Total Amount Paid 8/20/2018 VI-14616 35348 229.00 229.00 9/5/2018 3434 Pollard Water 626.79 Date Voucher Number Reference Voucher Total Amount Paid 8/21/2018 VI-14618 0116910 626.79 626.79 Total Amount Paid: 898.49 SOUTH BURLINGTON CITY COUNCIL _____________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________ Printed: August 29, 2018 Page 1 of 1 CITY COUNCIL 6 AUGUST 2018 The South Burlington City Council held a regular meeting on Monday, 6 August 2018, at 6:30 p.m., in the Conference Room, City Hall, 575 Dorset Street. Members Present: M. Emery, Acting Chair; T. Barritt, T. Chittenden (via phone), D. Kaufman Also Present: T. Hubbard, Deputy City Manager; A. Bolduc, City Attorney; A. Lafferty, Deputy City Attorney; P. Conner, Director of Planning & Zoning; J. Murray, Librarian; H. Rees, Recreation Department; B. Sirvis, J. Kochman, S. Dooley, M. Simoneau, L. Bedinger, B. Gagnon, J. Wilking, M. Cota, V. Carzello, S. Mays, R. Gagnon, K. Dolbec, W. Wooden, R. Cruz, J. Eltman, J. Langan, J. West, A. Chalnick, T. Perrin, T. Zylka 1. Instructions on exiting building in case of emergency: Mr. Hubbard provided instructions on emergency evacuation of the building. 2. Agenda Review: Additions, deletions or changes in order of agenda items: No changes were made to the Agenda. 3. Comments and Questions from the public not related to the agenda: Ms. Servis suggested giving the “senior center” a catchier name that indicates its use for other activities in addition to a “senior center.” 4. Announcements and City Manager’s Report: Council members reported on meetings and events they had attended in recent weeks. Mr. Hubbard: Noted that the City Manager is on vacation this week. Reminded members of the special meeting next Monday at 6:30 p.m. and next Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. following the Grand Opening of City Center Park at 5 p.m. 5. Consent Agenda: a. Approve and Sign Disbursement b. Approve Minutes for 21 May, 4 June, 11 June, 18 June, 25 June, 2 July and 16 July c. Warn a public hearing in support of capital improvements within the City Center Tax Increment Financing District Mr. Kaufman moved to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. Mr. Barritt seconded. Motion passed 4-0. 6. Councilors’ reports from Committee assignments: Mr. Barritt reported on the meeting of the Pension Advisory Committee. There was discussion on the estimated return, and members decided not to take any action at present. There was CITY COUNCIL 6 AUGUST 2018 PAGE 2 also discussion of putting management of the fund out to bid. No action was taken. The next quarterly meeting is in October. Mr. Chittenden reported that at the most recent Green Mountain Transit meeting the contract with rural drivers was ratified. The annual retreat will be held in Montpelier where members will be able to look at that city’s new downtown transit center. 7. Report on Activities of the Community Justice Center: Ms. Bedinger noted that the Center is based at the Police Department where they report to Chief Whipple. The are based on the concept of “restorative justice” which is evolving from simply repairing harm to preventing the harm from happening in the first place. To meet these goals, the organization currently has 8 programs which are support by 3 staff, 20 volunteers and a number of subcontractors. Those programs are: a. Restorative Justice Panel: the panel heard 136 cases in 2017 (the high was 222 in 2013). These cases are referred by the Police Department, some of which have gone to court. The number of cases has been decreasing over time, possibly because offenders are not repeating, though there is no specific data to support this. Ms. Bedinger noted that over 60% of the cases the panel hears are for offenses that occurred at University Mall and involve offenses such as check fraud. b. Conflict Assistance: the panel addresses 7 of these cases a year which usually involve issues of noise. c. Offender Re-Entry: A “circle of support” provides long-term one-on-one support to 3 or 4 people a year who are the highest risk. d. Resource Navigation: 8 such cases are addressed a year and may involve providing clothes for those entering the work force, assisting with a school course, etc. It has been shown to lower the repeat rate for sex offenders by 75%. Participation is voluntary e. Victim Services and Parallel Justice: this program reaches out to victims of crimes. 58 victims were contacted in June, 2018. The program is currently on hold until a new grant kicks begins in this October. Ms. Bedinger showed quotes from those who have been served by the program. One hope is to have a local South Burlington fund. f. Restorative Practices in Schools: Over 600 Vermont educators have been trained in restorative practices including 33 in South Burlington. CITY COUNCIL 6 AUGUST 2018 PAGE 3 g. Safe Driving Program: 404 people were served in 2017 and 373 already in 2018. Participants are referred by attorneys and probation officers for all sorts of dangerous driving. h. Writing Inside Vermont: This program takes pace in prison facilities. One book of inmate writing has been published, and another is in the works. i. Community Dialogue and Education: Community discussions have taken place regarding opioid addiction, lockdowns at schools, etc. There is a hope to do more of this on a regular basis. Mr. Chittenden noted that his father served on the organization’s panels for many years. He asked if there are offenses that could go through the process but aren’t. Ms. Bedinger said there are some. The system was put in place to deal with lower level crimes, but research shows that it works even better with more moderate and higher level crimes. Domestic violence is now being looked at. 8. Introduction of Deputy City Attorney Amanda Lafferty: City Attorney Bolduc introduced Deputy City Attorney Lafferty who has been serving as outside counsel for 18 years. She specializes in issues involving zoning, land development, etc. Mr. Hubbard noted Attorney Lafferty has “hit the ground running.” 9. Public Information Session on duly-warned primary ballot article related to adding 1 cent to the South Burlington Municipal Tax Rate and investing the accumulated funds in bike and pedestrian facilities: Mr. Bolduc noted the information session is a requirement for bonding. He then explained the ballot items. Mr. Barritt moved to open the public hearing. Mr. Kaufman seconded. Motion passed 4-0. A member of the audience asked how long the 1-cent on the tax rate will last. Mr. Bolduc said it will last for 10 years. Ms. Emery said it would pay for engineering and construction, not maintenance. She also cited the need to connect portions of the city’s paths. Mr. Bolduc said they will bond for the estimated 10-year amount and pay off the bond with fund that are accumulated from the 1-cent tax. Mr. Hubbard added that the expectation is that most of the money will be used in the short term and then paid off. Ms. Emery added that the funds would also provide “matches” for grants the city might receive. There was no further public comment. CITY COUNCIL 6 AUGUST 2018 PAGE 4 Mr. Kaufman moved to close the public hearing. Mr. Barritt seconded. Motion passed 4-0. 10. Consider possibly ballot article related to Kennedy Drive stormwater project and the Clean Water State Revolving Fund: Mr. Bolduc said the city is working with the state on a companion project at the Bartlett Bay Treatment Plant. The state has been identifying additional projects that can be done and has identified the Kennedy Drive project. This project would have to be bonded for. Mr. Bolduc noted that the Governor recently signed a bill providing that a “companion project” would not have to be separately bonded. The city is waiting to hear whether the Kennedy Drive project would fall under that provision. In the meantime, the Council will be asked to approve a ballot article in case the project does not qualify. Presentation on Proposed Indoor Recreation Facility: Ms. Rees and Ms. Kochman noted receipt from residents of requests for facilities such as pickle- ball courts. The Recreation Department and Parks/Rec Committee try to meet such requests but do not have indoor recreation facilities. Ms. Rees said they do the best they can with the resources they have. She noted the city is “land rich, facilities poor.” Ms. Kochman added there is no “programmable indoor space,” and schools are available only on a limited basis. Ms. Rees noted the current crisis with no space for the city’s basketball program this year. Ms. Kochman said one of the items on the city’s TIF application was to build a “recreation center.” Ms. Rees cited current constraints at City Hall and the schools, especially in the summer when recreation is very important. Renting space is very expensive. Requests from residents include (in addition to pickle ball courts) dodgeball leagues, indoor camp space, indoor event space, Broom Ball leagues, dancing instruction, and more. Ms. Kochman said the highest priorities are indoor recreation facilities and support staff expansion. Ms. Kochman briefly reviewed NRPA standards and where South Burlington falls within those standards. For example, the city is 75% below the standard for indoor recreation space, and the capital budget is 50% below that of other respondents. Per capital expenditure for recreation is 75% below other respondents. One potential solution has been identified and involves the Champlain Oil building on Dorset Street plus space in a nearby building. Staff is working to acquire that space. Ms. Rees showed CITY COUNCIL 6 AUGUST 2018 PAGE 5 the potential for what could occur in those facilities including: volley ball, pickle ball, dance, tennis, a walking track, off-season markets, trade shows, and community events. The cost estimate for the facilities is $1,500,000. This would be TIF eligible and could also be funded through reserve funds, impact fees and Recreation Foundation funding. There would be no additional tax increase. The hope is to put this on the March ballot. Ms. Kochman reviewed a resolution from the Recreation and Parks Committee in support of this option. Mr. Kaufman, who is head of the Recreation Foundation, explained how this came about and noted the Foundation is engaged in raising private funding. Mr. Hubbard explained how the Champlain Oil property came into the discussion with the sale of that company. The Company owners retained the property and are very willing to work with the city as partners in an agreement. They would retain most of the office building, but the city could use the first floor for administrative offices for the Recreation Department. It is hoped there will be an agreement in the next month. Mr. Kaufman cited the contributions of Tony Cairns to recreation in South Burlington and noted that Tony is a very generous individual. He stressed that the Foundation will look for a major donor(s) to get this going quickly. Mr. Hubbard said the Planning Commission will see a presentation next week and will review what might be necessary to meet the Form Based Code standards of the area. Mr. Barritt suggested looking into the costs for a standard steel building in addition to costs for the inflatable dome design. Mr. Hubbard noted the inflatable buildings have a 20-year lifetime as they are now built; a steel building would result in a tax increase. Mr. Barritt felt this is part of the intention of “redevelopment” of City Center and would be a real asset to the city. Mr. Wilking expressed concern with removing this property from the taxable land in the city. He felt that redeveloping the land could provide the city with additional tax monies and suggested looking at Dorset Park for an indoor recreation facility. He felt this would be a good project for the new Economic Development Committee. CITY COUNCIL 6 AUGUST 2018 PAGE 6 11. Interview with Applicants for City Boards, Committees, and Commissions: The Council interviewed the following applicants for openings on city Boards, Committees, and Commissions: Valerie Carzello …………………………….. Affordable Housing Committee Stuart Mays …………………………………. Affordable Housing Committee Rheal Gagnon ……………………………… Affordable Housing Committee and Airport Commission Katie Dolbec ………………………………… Bike/Ped Committee William Wooden ………………………….. Bike/Ped Committee Robin Cruz ……………………………………. Dog Park Committee Jason Eltman ………………………………… Planning Commission Bernard Gagnon …………………………… Planning Commission James Langan ………………………………. Development Review Board or Planning Commission Matthew Cota …………………………….. Development Review Board Jacob West ………………………………….. Planning Commission, Development Review Board, and/or Economic Development Committee John Wilking ……………………………….. Development Review Committee and Economic Development Committee Andrew Chalnick ………………………….. Energy Committee Mike Simoneau ……………………………. Economic Development Committee Tim Perrin …………………………………… Energy Committee Tammy Zylka ……………………………….. Recreation & Parks Committee Ms. Emery explained the process for appointments to be made. 12. Consider and Possibly Approve Appointment Paul Conner as Zoning Administrative Officer, Code Officer and Telecommunications Officer: Mr. Kaufman moved to appoint Paul Conner as Zoning Administrative Officer, Code Officer and Telecommunications Officer. Mr. Barritt seconded. Motion passed 4-0. 13. Consider and possibly approve a resolution recognizing the service of Raymond Belair to the City of South Burlington: CITY COUNCIL 6 AUGUST 2018 PAGE 7 Ms. Emery read the Resolution citing Mr. Belair’s service to the City. Mr. Conner said it was a professional and personal pleasure to work with Mr. Belair. He cited the outpouring of accolades since Mr. Belair announced his retirement. He touched thousands of people’s lives. Mr. Kaufman moved to approve the Resolution Recognizing the Service of Raymond Belair to the City of South Burlington. Mr. Barritt seconded. Motion passed 4-0. 14. Other Business: No other business was presented. 15. Liquor Control Board: Mr. Barritt moved the Council convene as Liquor Control Board. Mr. Kaufman seconded. Motion passed 4-0. Members reviewed an application from the Rotisserie for outside consumption. Mr. Barritt moved to approve the application from the Rotisseries for outside consumption. Mr. Kaufman seconded. Motion passed 4-0. Mr. Barritt moved that the Board reconvene as City Council. Mr. Kaufman seconded. Motion passed 4-0. 16. Appointment: Mr. Barritt moved to appoint Nancy Fawley to the Library Board of Trustees. Mr. Kaufman seconded. Motion passed 4-0. 17. Possible Executive Session to discuss: a. The negotiating or securing of real estate purchase or lease options b. Confidential attorney-client communications made for the purpose of providing p0rofessional legal services to the Council c. Appointments to City Boards, Commissions and Committees CITY COUNCILJ 6 AUGUST 2018 PAGE 8 Mr. Barritt moved that the Council make a specific finding that premature general public knowledge of the confidential attorney-client communications related to pending or probably civil litigation, to which the public body is a party, made for the purpose of providing professional legal services to this Council would clearly place the public body and the City at a substantial disadvantage. Mr. Kaufman seconded. Motion passed 4-0. Mr. Barritt the moved that having so found, the Council enter into executive session for the purpose of discussing: the negotiating or securing of real estate purchase or lease options, confidential attorney-client communications made for the purpose of providing professional legal services to the Council regarding pending or probable litigation, and appointments to City Boards, Commissions and Committees and to include in the executive session Mr. Hubbard, Mr. Conner, Mr. Bolduc and Ms. Lafferty. Mr. Kaufman seconded. Motion passed 4-0. The Council entered executive session at 10:45 p.m. and returned to open session at 11:14 p.m. As there was no further business to come before the Council, Mr. Chittenden moved to adjourn. Mr. Barritt seconded. Motion passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 11:15 p.m. ________________________________ Clerk SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL 13 AUGUST 2018 The South Burlington City Council held a regular meeting on Monday, 13 August 2018, at 6:30 p.m., in the Conference Room, City Hall, 575 Dorset Street. Members Present: H. Riehle, Chair; M. Emery, T. Barritt, T. Chittenden, D. Kaufman Also Present: K. Dorn, City Manager; T. Hubbard, Deputy City Manager; I. Blanchard, Project Manager; J. Murray, Librarian; H. Rees, Head of Recreation Department; S. Roy, J. Stetson, J. Kochman, T. Duff, M. Mittag, S. Dooley 1. Instructions on exiting building in case of emergency: Mr. Dorn provided instructions on emergency evacuation of the building. 2. Agenda Review: Additions, deletions or changes in order of agenda items: No changes were made to the Agenda. 3. Comments and Questions from the public not related to the agenda: No issues were raised. 4. Council work session on public facilities in City Center: Ms. Blanchard said that since the last presentation, work has been continuing with 2 teams, one working on design and one on cost estimating. Both teams then got together to look at cost savers. Since the last meeting, they learned that costs for such things as grading and sidewalks have been going up. They also have better figures for foundations related to soil issues. They have also incorporated some saving features which do not affect the building’s performance. Some of these may reduce initial costs but could cost more in the long run. Reductions of $800,000 have been taken for such items as: a. Reduced material for walls b. Stairs to the roof c. Removal of the elevated platform in the Auditorium d. Simplifying of counters e. Removal of wood baseboards in all but the most important rooms f. Changing solid surface window sills to hardwood g. Removing daylighting in the downstairs corridor h. Revising stair design Additional changes that don’t yet have numbers include: SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL 13 AUGUST 2018 PAGE 2 a. Requirements for external materials and assemblies b. Potential to change concrete slab Mr. Roy then showed an exterior view of the building from Market Street including a covered bike storage area and an area for the U.S. and State flags. He noted the less expensive metal panels for the building’s top edge and indicated a glass railing for the Library terrace. He also indicated the entrance with visual identity for the City Clerk’s office. There are vertical elements to reduce glare and a zinc material at the top of the building. Mr. Kaufman noted an article he read regarding concrete and asked the team to take a look at it. Mr. Stetson said they would but noted they were using granite because it is a Vermont product. Ms. Emery questioned whether concrete met the durability standard like granite. Mr. Roy then showed a bird’s eye view from the southeast and indicated the roof terraces. The building would be “green roof ready,” which would not necessarily be done for opening day. There is a 10,000 sq. ft. buildable area above the terrace. Mr. Roy cited that cost and impact to the system. Mr. Roy noted they have school approval for the design. It has been sent to the Allard Square people for review. Meetings have been held with Snyder-Braverman regarding Allard Square access issues. Mr. Roy showed the area for driveway access to the Allard Square garage. That would have to be kept open during construction of the City Hall building. Mr. Roy then showed the project site plan and indicated the land involved in the swap with the School District. He pointed out the school parking and parking for the City Hall building. In a plan for the first floor, Mr. Roy indicated the various sections. The information desk would have “local touches” to the finishes, possibly the use of local stone. They are still working on the stairs and feel they can improve functionally and still maintain the “wow featurefactor.” The Auditorium would still have retractable seating but no raised platform (stage), though the stage could be added later. They could build a tiered floor with permanent seating, but this would limit the use. Mr. Roy then indicated the Senior Center space with some special finishes. There would be a kitchen and fireplace with activity center space. SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL 13 AUGUST 2018 PAGE 3 On the second floor, Mr. Roy indicated the continuation of the stairs into the Library. He pointed out the “quiet reading” room and some “special zones.” There is a teen area with raised platform and space for classrooms. They will be using the South Burlington path system as a model for carpeting and/tile or ceiling. On the third floor, Mr. Roy pointed out the city offices and meeting rooms. He showed examples of what the spaces could look like. Mr. Blanchard said they are very aware of the decisions that need to be made if there is to be a November vote. The present number they are working with is $23,500,000 including the solar array roof and $21,000,000 without that roof. $4,640,000 of this amount is TIF eligible. The remaining amount would result in 1/10 of a cent on taxes or $26,000 a year. That tax rate could be reduced by a capital campaign, facilities impact fees ($180,000) and the Blanchette Fund ($350,000). In answer to a question regarding a parking garage, Mr. Roy said the numbers for a parking garage were such that they didn’t feel it was appropriate for this building. It would also require a different kind of foundation. Mr. Chittenden asked whether it is necessary to include City Hall in the municipal building. Ms. Emery asked if the current Library space in UMall could become a Senior Center so the proposed building would be only a Library-City Hall. Mr. Dorn said the deal with the Mall is for 3 years which would probably not be extended. Ms. Blanchard noted they would still have to have space to fit utilities, access to Allard Square, trash facilities, and the new street with access to the school. Given cost increases, Ms. Emery cited the need to think differently from what has been put in place. She said the Library is the main thing. There will be senior spaces in Allard Square, and seniors can walk in UMall. She felt they should consider just a Library with the Auditorium on the land with some parking so they wouldn’t need the MOU with the school. Mr. Kaufman questioned whether the savings would be significant enough or whether they would still need the same infrastructure. Mr. Stetson said there are a lot of costs that will have to be paid regardless: utilities, roadway to Allard Square, roadway on Market Street, etc. Mr. Roy added that the Library takes up a large part of the first and second floors, so just having the Library wouldn’t change the footprint by much. SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL 13 AUGUST 2018 PAGTE 4 Mr. Kaufman said he wasn’t up to paying all that money for just a Library. He noted the cost of building materials has gone up significantly in the last year, about $1,000,000. He understood the soil issue that requires more money for the foundation. Mr. Dorn cited the importance of differentiating between the total amount to ask the voters for and what the taxpayers actually have to pay. He noted the $860,000 already reserved and said if the Council maintains that amount annually and adds $26,000 to it, that would get the whole package. Ms. Emery said the Council has been told the city is on an “unsustainable course.” She cited the need to talk priorities. Mr. Barritt said he was concerned with things they may need and not be able to pay for. He cited rising health insurance costs. Mr. Chittenden said he wanted to know the cost of a Library with underground parking. He didn’t feel as much need for TIF burden for a City Hall. Ms. Kochman said she was feeling discouraged that the Senior Center might be removed from this building. She liked the fact that the proposed Senior Center would be comparable in “niceness” to the Library space. She also noted that the Senior Center can charge for some of its programs while the Library cannot. The space could also be rented for revenue. This allows for more creativity in programming. She felt that relegating the Senior Center to UMall would be “inferior.” Ms. Kochman said she has also talked with people and many of them want ballroom dancing. That could happen in this building. She added that what is proposed is ingenious and beautiful. It would be sad to take it out of this well-designed building. Ms. Dooley said this building is an investment. She saw a lot of synergy between City Hall and the Library. The building would also be an incentive to more City Center development. She felt the Council has to consider the whole building. Ms. Dooley also noted that 40% of the households in South Burlington are headed by seniors, and lifestyles and desires of seniors are changing. She felt there should be research as to the what the total population of seniors would like. Mr. Chittenden said he fully supports the Senior Center. His concern is the City Hall. Mr. Kaufman said he feels the proposed building enhances South Burlington as a place for families to live. In doing the calculation for required parking for just a Library, Mr. Kaufman came up with a requirement of 60 spaces. Mr. Roy said they can get only 30-35 on the site. Ms. Blanchard said they might not get even that many because of space for utilities. SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL 13 AUGUST 2018 PAGE 5 Mr. Hubbard said he understood the financial concerns. He noted that TIF funding lets them do some things they otherwise couldn’t do. He cited the $860,000 in funds already built by the Council. He said they are close to the point where voters could build up the local share so they wouldn’t have to use tax money. He felt they are doing what the city told voters they would do. Mr. Hubbard acknowledged that some deferred expenses are important and noted that some towns have a 2-cent tax for capital expenses. Ms. Blanchard then showed how the city could ease in the increase over time with an impact of less than 1/10 of a cent. Mr. Dorn added there is also the potential increase in the Grand List to factor in. Ms. Blanchard cited some cost savings for things that could be added in later (e.g., green roof, sun shades) which total about $800,000. Eliminating such things as some fireplaces, sidewalk snow melt, central skylight, etc., could save another $400,000. Mr. Hubbard said he was confident the city would have $300,000 in TIF money in 2020. Mr. Kaufman noted the difference from the original $18,000,000 to what is now presented is one cent on the tax rate. He felt that wasn’t a bad deal to get all that is proposed along with an investment in the future. He said he felt better about this than he did an hour ago. Just a Library with parking issues didn’t sound like a good deal to him. Ms. Riehle noted the schools also need administrative space; if they don’t get the current City Hall space, they will have to get space somewhere else at a cost to taxpayers. Mr. Chittenden said he would like to hear from the School Board on Wednesday how much they need this space. Mr. Pasakow said he loves the proposed building. Have everything together makes perfect sense. He was not thrilled with the idea of underground parking. Ms. Blanchard said that for Wednesday they would provide information regarding costs if City Hall is removed and what it would look like, also other possible cuts. Mr. Kaufman said an “educated guess” would suffice. Mr. Mittag said this building is South Burlington’s dream. This is the vision of an anchor for City Center. If the anchor is removed, City Center diminishes. SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL 13 AUGUST 2018 PAGE 6 Members then considered some specific potential cuts: Ms. Riehle asked about the sidewalk snow melt. Mr. Roy said it would cost $6500-7500/year to operate. Mr. Kaufman said you have to consider the damage to the inside of the building from salt, etc., as well as safety and maintenance. He said one slip and fall lawsuit would cost at least that much. Ms. Emery said she liked the sunshades. Ms. Riehle said she would give up future expansion potential and do the green roof later. Members did not want to lose the skylight. Mr. Kaufman suggested taking out the north terrace and leaving the eastern terrace. Members were OK with having just the downstairs fireplace. Ms. Blanchard explained what is involved in changing the elevators, and members agreed to leave them as is. They did agree to remove the generator. 5. Other Business: Mr. Dorn reminded members of the City Center Park dedication on Wednesday, 4 p.m., preceding the second special City Council meeting at 5:30 p.m. Members agreed they wanted to hear from the School Board at that meeting. As there was no further business to come before the Council, M moved to adjourn. M seconded. Motion passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 9:18 p.m. ________________________________ Clerk SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL 15 AUGUST 2018 The South Burlington City Council held a regular meeting on Wednesday, 15 August 2018, at 5:30 p.m., in the Conference Room, City Hall, 575 Dorset Street. Members Present: H. Riehle, Chair; M. Emery, T. Barritt, T. Chittenden, D. Kaufman Also Present: K. Dorn, City Manager; T. Hubbard, Deputy City Manager; D. Young, Superintendent of Schools; School Board Members E. Fitzgerald, Chair; A. McHenry, M. Lalonde, S. Wisloski, B. Burkhardt; I. Blanchard, Project Manager; L. Murray, Librarian; J. Rabidoux, Public Works Director; P. Conner, Director of Planning & Zoning; H. Rees, Head of Recreation Department; S. Roy, M. Cole, J. Kochman, S. Dooley, B. Sirvis 1. Instructions on exiting building in case of emergency: Mr. Dorn provided instructions on emergency evacuation of the building. 2. Agenda Review: Additions, deletions or changes in order of agenda items: No changes were made to the Agenda. 3. Comments and Questions from the public not related to the agenda: No issues were raised. 4. Joint Meeting with School Board to consider and possibly approve an Agreement for the Exchange of Rights & Interests in Real Property: Ms. Riehle reviewed the special Council meeting of Monday evening. She noted that the architect was asked to come back with numbers if only a Library were to be built. She also explained the soils issue and the expense of having to use different footings ($1,500,000) for just the Library. The Council also asked if it is possible to reduce the footprint and eliminate the need for a land swap with the School District. However, there would still be a need for space for utilities, sewer, and parking. The question was raised as to how firm the School District is for their need to use the existing City Hall for administrative offices. Ms. Emery said the Council is trying to answer questions from the community as to whether the building will have 1, 2, or 3 uses. She emphasized that this is just for the purpose of seeing options. Mr. Kaufman stressed that the Council wants the city’s schools to be as good as they can be. The Council just has to look at “what ifs.” Ms. Fitzgerald noted the School Board will be meeting following this meeting, and there is a warning for a vote on 7 November. She asked if a November vote is still on the table. SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL 15 AUGUST 2018 PAGE 2 It was noted that the vote on the proposed building could be on a separate ballot from the State ballot which would allow for more time (an extra month) to make decisions. The Council wants to hear that the City Hall building is important to the School District’s long-range plans. Ms. Fitzgerald said they could extend the MOU to allow the Council to pursue their options. She felt it was premature to talk about the MOU. Superintendent Young said there have been extensive conversations about the MOU. It is not something the Board entered into without due diligence. There is active master planning and visioning going forward. Mr. Kaufman said he felt the Council should proceed on the premise that the MOU is in place and try to make the building affordable. He felt this was possible. Mr. Lalonde said if the City doesn’t need that land from the School District, it is a different question. Ms. Fitzgerald said the School Board has not discussed the MOU in public and could delay that discussion. Ms. Emery stressed that this is not what the Council wanted. Ms. Fitzgerald said one of the requirements for this evening for the School Board was that both parties were willing to go forward. She felt she was hearing from the Council that they need more information. Ms. Riehle said the information the Council needs is a final number for the ballot. Mr. Kaufman added that the hope is to go forward with just some modifications to the design. The MOU is great. The Council needs a number, and there is time to do that. He stressed that this is a building that will last 100 years. If it takes a little more time to get a number, so be it. Members of the School Board left the meeting at this time for their own scheduled meeting. Mr. Barritt expressed concern that the Council had just given the School Board carte blanche to delay action. 5. Council working session on Public Facilities in City Center in SoBu Spaces: Ms. Blanchard advised the Council that the number for funding from the Blanchette Fund is actually higher than anticipated, $418,000 instead of $350,000. In addition, the roadway piece is no longer part of the debt as it will be funded from impact fees. The Market Street part is part of the debt. SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL 15 AUGUST 2018 PAGE 3 Members were then given a handout with estimates for a “Library Alone,” Library, Senior Center and City Hall with the previously discussed deductions, and the three uses with a budget set at a reduction of $1,200,000. Ms. Blanchard noted that the second column is the building discussed on Monday night minus the agreed upon deductions. The total figure is $22,978,000 of which $21,000,000 would be the bonded debt. $16,800,000 of that would be covered in the CIP debt if funded at $806,000 annual payment. The third column includes options to cut costs (e.g. mechanicals). Some of those cuts are not known at this time. Ms. Blanchard noted that furniture & fixtures would be one opportunity for “ campaigns.” They are not needed till later in the process, and some rooms could be furnished at a later date. With a $1,200,000 reduction, the total bond debt would be $20,406,000. The CIP Reserve Fund Finance Bond payment would annually be $770,000. Ms. Blanchard stressed that building a Library alone would not be inexpensive. There is also the question of parking and the need for a second elevator. Mr. Chittenden said this makes the argument that the City Hall portion of the building is not a major cost driver. Ms. Blanchard said the City could try to go back to request more TIF funding. The maximum under which they are now operating was based on a lower cost figure that the City submitted. Mr. Kaufman agreed with Mr. Chittenden regarding the City Hall portion of the building. Ms. Riehle noted that what is not included in these estimates is any fund-raising by the Library other than the Blanchette Fund. Ms. Blanchard said it would be helpful to have a target number so decision can be made. Once the Council nails something down, the design team can get to the next level of detail. Mr. Dorn said it is time now for the Council to come up with a “not to exceed” number. Mr. Barritt added “or to pull the plug on the project.” Mr. Kaufman said in his mind the number is $21,000,000 for the three uses. There is no sense in building just a Library. Ms. Emery stressed that she did not want to sacrifice building soundness or environmental quality. Mr. Roy said that $21,000,000 number buys all the furniture for the building, but it SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL 15 AUGUST 2018 PAGE 4 could be reduced by re-using furniture. That would not affect building soundness or environmental quality. Mr. Kaufman said the City wants a top-quality building, “no cutting corners.” Mr. Roy felt there is a way to get to $21,000,000. Mr. Kaufman suggested waiting to see what the team comes up with to get to that number. If the Council doesn’t like it, they can just not go for a November vote. Ms. Riehle asked about the possibility of reducing the required number of spaces. Ms. Blanchard said the maximum number of spaces will be needed. Up to 25% is allowed to be reduced with adequate bicycle racks. Mr. Chittenden said he still wants to explore just a Library but can be sold on the City Hall. He was concerned that with the debt for this building, the city won’t get a pool. He also had some questions for Executive Session. Mr. Cole of the Library Board of Trustees and the design committee, said there is an $800,000 estimate (including the Blanchette fund) of what the Friends of the Library can raise. This does not include any amount the Library itself can raise through grants, etc. There is now a grant writer on the Library Board. Mr. Cole gave members a handout of a chart from the National Library Association regarding available grants. The potential totals over $3,000,000,000. The Library hasn’t cracked the surface of this yet because they did not have a design to present, which is generally a requirement for a grant. He felt it is important for the Council to understand this. Mr. Cole stressed this building will be the keystone of Market Street and will impact property values. He urged the Council to stick with the WOW factor to give the Library a chance to make this happen. Ms. Dooley made a pitch for including the City Hall portion of the building. She felt it would be an equal magnet for City Center. She reminded the Council of earlier votes by citizen visioning groups to include all three uses in a facility in City Center. She also noted all the City Hall uses that would get people to City Center including: voting, licenses (marriage, dog/cat, etc.), tax payments, DMV registration, free notary service, liquor/cigarette/entertainment permits, etc. Ms. Dooley did not see the Library by itself as nearly as powerful as the combination of uses. Ms. Sirvis echoes Ms. Dooley’s comments but stressed the need to call the “senior center” something more inclusive/descriptive (e.g. Community Center). Ms. Emery said that seeing the breakdown and a less than $3,000,000 difference, she can make the case to voters. She cited the importance of City Center as a “center of gravity” and also SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL 15 AUGUST 2018 PAGE 5 cited the large turnout at this evening’s opening of City Center Park as evidence of public interest and commitment to City Center. Ms. Blanchard asked if the Council still wants a public hearing on a draft. Ms. Emery felt they can schedule it and change it if necessary. Ms. Riehle said she was willing to go with the $21,800,000 number and noted it will take a lot of work to educate the public. She cited the strong vote for the “penny for parks” and felt the Council can make the case to the public. She saw the building as a centerpiece to City Center. Without it, it’s just apartments across from a mall. Mr. Kaufman felt this is the future of the community and is essential. He felt the public will listen to that. Ms. Sirvis asked why Mr. Barritt is opposed. He said it’s too much money. He didn’t feel a new City Hall is needed. He was also not sure this is the right place for a Library. He felt there should be “natural space” adjacent to it and suggested cheaper city-owned land. Ms. Riehle noted that other Chittenden County communities have libraries in their City Center, often adjacent to municipal buildings. These are “gathering places” and that is what South Burlington is struggling with. She added that even if the land is expensive, there is a positive result to having a centralized municipal center. She felt that a majority of residents would agree. She also said you don’t just put something somewhere because you own the land. That is not good long-term planning. Ms. Dooley cited the 2 visioning meetings in the winter, with people coming through snowstorms to attend. The place was mobbed. Not one person at those meetings said City Center was the wrong place for a Library. Ms. Emery noted the city has been trying to put a City Center together for 30 years; generations of residents have been working toward this. It is an opportunity to make something beautiful. Mr. Kaufman added that the rebuilding of Dorset was the start to City Center. He felt the city owed the people who live in it to be the best the city can be. Mr. Chittenden suggested that if they built just a Library, there could be a City Hall across the street in the future. Ms. Riehle noted the Council had that discussion, and it was a $30,000,000 discussion. Ms. Sirvis spoke against using city-owned land and destroying more open space. SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL 15 AUGUST 2018 PAGE 6 b. Indoor Recreation Facility: Mr. Dorn said there is continuing dialogue with Tony Cairns to nail down numbers. They are also looking at an alternative that would not tear down the entire front building. The cost of new construction might be less than renovating the old building. There will also be a complete environmental assessment of the property before going forward with any final negotiations. Ms. Riehle asked who would pay for environmental issues. Mr. Dorn said that would be negotiated. Mr. Kaufman noted Mr. Cairns said those issues were resolved years ago, but there should still be due diligence. Mr. Kaufman noted he is on the Board of the Skating Association. He reminded the Council that years ago they were going to put a central entrance on the skating rinks, but a former city manager vetoed that. The Board is reviewing that plan now, and the feeling is that will happen in the next few years. Mr. Kaufman then noted that the South Burlington Recreation Facility could be put on the second floor of the building with a dome facility out back. The proposal for the skating facility is to have an expanded cafeteria and expanded pro shop. The city could then allow Mr. Cairns to redevelop the Champlain Oil property for tax benefit to the city. Mr. Kaufman noted Mr. Cairns is happy with either scenario. Mr. Roy urged due diligence on the code. 6. Other Business: a. Sign Warrant: Mr. Hubbard said this should be processed so there can be a transfer to the Schools on Friday. Mr. Chittenden moved to approve the warrant as presented. Ms. Emery seconded. Motion passed unanimously. 7. Possible Executive Session to discuss the negotiating or securing of real estate purchase or lease options: Mr. Barritt moved the Council meet in executive session to discuss the negotiating or securing of real estate purchase or lease options and to include in the session Messrs. Dorn, Hubbard, and Conner, and to resume regular session only for the purpose of adjournment. Ms. Emery seconded. Motion passed unanimously. Members entered executive session at 7:35 p.m., SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL 15 AUGUST 2018 PAGE 7 and resumed open session at 9:18. As there was no further business to come before the Council, Mr. Chittenden moved to adjourn. Ms. Emery seconded. Motion passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 9:20 p.m. ________________________________ Clerk CITY COUNCIL 20 AUGUST 2018 The South Burlington City Council held a regular meeting on Monday, 20 August 2018, at 6:30 p.m., in the Conference Room, City Hall, 575 Dorset Street. Members Present: H. Riehle, Chair; M. Emery, T. Barritt, T. Chittenden, D. Kaufman Also Present: K. Dorn, City Manager; T. Hubbard, Deputy City Manager; A. Bolduc, City Attorney; Chief T. Whipple and Deputy Chief S. Burke, Police Department; H. Rees, Head of Recreation Department; A. Gross, S. Dooley, E. Miller, C. Peters, D. Olsky, D. Bugbee, B. Sirvis, M. Mittag, L. Kupferman, T. Bailey, L. Black-Plumeau, A. Holland, G. Donovan, J. Kearns, other members of the community 1. Instructions on exiting building in case of emergency: Mr. Dorn provided instructions on emergency evacuation of the building. 2. Possible Executive Session to discuss issues related to collective bargaining agreements: Mr. Barritt moved that the Council make a specific finding that premature general public knowledge of the confidential attorney-client communications and other discussions related to the negotiation of labor relations agreements with employees to which the public body is a party, and made for the purpose of providing professional legal services to this Council would clearly place the public body and the City at a substantial disadvantage. Mr. Chittenden seconded. Motion passed 4-0. Mr. Barritt then moved that the Council enter into executive session for the purpose of discussing: confidential attorney-client communications made for the purpose of providing professional legal services to the Council, and the negotiation of Labor relations agreements with employees, and to include in the sessions Messrs. Dorn, Hubbard, and Bolduc. Mr. Chittenden seconded. Motion passed 4-0. The Council entered into executive session at 6:38 p.m. and resumed open session at 7:05 p.m. 3. Agenda Review: Additions, deletions or changes in order of agenda items: No changes were made to the Agenda. 4. Comments and Questions from the public not related to the agenda: Ms. Miller: Noted that she is a Sociology professor at UVM, specializing on affects of growth and development on the lives of people. She said she is not convinced the City has taken into account how development will affect the lives of residents. Ms. Peters: Asked whether the City has looked at what the city will look like so needs such as water, schools, buses, etc., can be determined. She noted this has a tremendous budgetary/tax CITY COUNCIL 20 AUGUST 2018 PAGE 2 impact. She asked if things are monitored before they are approved. Mr. Barritt explained the sketch plan process, which is the first time a proposal is in the “pipeline” and the public can see it. He also enumerated some of the still incomplete projects. Mr. Kaufman suggested having the Director of Planning & Zoning respond to this at a future meeting. Ms. Riehle noted that many of the concerns raised by Ms. Peters are addressed by impact fees on developers. Mr. Gross: Noted that Vermont is the #1 state to live in, and South Burlington is rated #2 for safety. He is troubled by the change in the nature of original neighborhoods because of intensity and density of development. He felt this threatens the values of existing homes. He specifically cited concern with proposed housing off Nowland Farm Road which, he felt, raises quality of life issues, and gets them “back to having street lights,” which is different from what they are used to. Added that growth has to happen; the question is the nature of it. Ms. Riehle asked if there is a Southeast Quadrant issue for people in the audience. The audience response was “yes.” Ms. Emery felt there is public dissatisfaction with the LDRs. Mr. Barritt cited the Farrell St./O’Dell development history and noted there was early dissatisfaction with what is now a vital part of the city. Ms. Riehle suggested asking Paul Conner to provide information in a better forum for people’s concerns. She also stressed that the city does not want to have every development litigated because the rules are not followed. Ms. Olsky said they were told “the city” wanted more density and to have building closer to Dorset St. She said residents don’t want this much development. She asked why the city includes wetlands in the density equation. She wanted to see a concise list of approved projects and what is to be approved. She felt there should be down-zoning. Ms. Dooley explained the nature of the Regional Plan put out by the Chittenden County Regional Planning Commission and noted that 80% of planned growth is supposed to take place in 20% of the land. A lot of that “planned growth” area is in South Burlington so that people will not have to commute in order to get to jobs, most of which are located in the Burlington-South Burlington area. Ms. Dooley also noted that a project is pretty much defined before it gets to the DRB because the rules that govern development are made at the Planning Commission. She suggested the city should look into televising the Planning Commission meetings. CITY COUNCIL 20 AUGUST 2018 PAGE 3 5. (previously agenda item #8) Public Hearing regarding the placement of a question on the November ballot regarding the issuance of debt including TIF District Financing, to construct a Library, Senior Center and City Hall at 180 Market Street: Ms. Emery moved to open the public hearing. Mr. Kaufman seconded. Motion passed unanimously. Mr. Mittag : asked the council not to Don’t skimp on the building. Ms. Riehle said the Council will ask to continue this item untill 4 September 4th when new information (cost figures) will be available. Ms. Bugbee said it is hard for the public to have access to the MOU and follow the discussion. Mr. Dorn said he can provide copies. Mr. Bolduc noted the MOU is available to the public, but the agreements, which are still being negotiated, can’t be made public. Mr. Kaufman moved to continue the public hearing until 4 September 2018, 7:30 p.m. Ms. Emery seconded. Motion passed unanimously. 6. Report on Community Outreach Program: Chief Whipple reviewed the history of the program which was launched on 30 April 2018. He stated: “We got it right,” and noted that each of the 4 people hired under the program brings different skills. They all work together and do “handoffs,” so an issue gets to the right person to handle it. The Chief cited an issue that arose today in which an outreach person was able to calm a situation that could have led to violence and to assist with future safety planning. The Chief also noted that on “low level” calls, there are times when the Police don’t even need to go. Outreach people have been making “proactive” visits and are also helping to educate uniformed officers as to what they might do in specific situations. There have even been times when police personnel have been helped with their own issues. Chief Whipple then reviewed some specific statistics, noting that from April to June, there were 50 South Burlington “face-to-face” services, about 1/3 of the total number of such situations and more than any other participating community. Out of 270 total contacts in that time period, 81 were to South Burlington. From 2 July to 17 August, 41 of the 129 “face to face” calls were to South Burlington and 41 of the 134 total calls were to South Burlington. CITY COUNCIL 20 AUGUST 2018 PAGE 4 Chief Whipple noted that these calls are only on weekdays as there is no weekend service. The Chief cited the growth in mental health issues and said they are now addressing them as such. Mr. Barritt asked about the success rate for suicide issues. The Chief said there have been no completed suicides through August. Deputy Chief Burke stressed that Police want to avid violent encounters. Ms. Riehle suggested that knowledge of this program could help with recruitment. Chief Whipple said it also helps with retention of police officers as the overall stress level of officers has been lessened significantly. In this regard, there are now trained peer support police personnel who can recognize issues with fellow officers. Ms. Riehle said it makes her proud that the city recognized the need and is addressing it. Chief Whipple felt this is a wonderful legacy for him to leave behind. 7. Consider and Possibly Approve JAG Grant Application: Chief Whipple explained the Justice Assistance Grant and noted that the city is entitled to receive $10,427 this year. When these funds are received, they will be used to replace the archaic evidence tracking system with a new system that provides 100% accountability. Deputy Chief Burke said the timing for this is good as there will be a “change of command audit.” He noted his observation that South Burlington has done an amazing job in the “property room.” Public comment was solicited. There was no public comment. Ms. Emery moved to approve the JAC Grant application as presented. Mr. Kaufman seconded. Motion passed unanimously. 8. (previously agenda item #11) Council Interview of Applicants for City Boards, Committees and Commissions: The Council interviewed the following applicants for appointment to City Boards, Committees and Commissions: a. Tom Bailey ………………………….. Affordable Housing Committee b. Leslie Black-Plumeau …………… Affordable Housing Committee CITY COUNCIL 20 AUGUST 2018 PAGE 5 c. Larry Kupferman …………………… Dog Park Task Force d. Amanda Holland …………………… Bike/Ped and Public Art Committees e. George Donovan ………………….. Recreation & Parks Committee 9. Announcements & City Manager’s Report: Council members reported on recent meetings and events they had attended. Mr. Dorn: Attended the Community Health group meeting. All members are very supportive of the program. He noted that the Howard Center received an $80,000 grant. Mr. Dorn also reviewed how the program is funded and noted that by the time the Council does the FY20 budget, the amount per community will be adjusted by use. He also noted that some of the grant money may be used for some weekend coverage. 10. Consent Agenda: a. Approve and Sign Disbursement Ms. Emery moved to approve the Consent Agenda is presented. Mr. Chittenden seconded. Motion passed unanimously. 11. Councilors’ reports from Committee assignments: Ms. Riehle reported that the Airport Commission will meet on Wednesday and invited members to let her know of any issues they wish her to raise. Mr. Chittenden suggested to governance issue. 12. (previously #13) Update on Jaycee Dog Park Fence Removal: Mr. Dorn said the fence is down and the poles are being removed. 13. (previously #16) Other Business: Ms. Riehle recognized Judy Kearns for her years of ownership of The Other Paper. She cited the fair coverage of events and issues and thanked her for creating an excellent local paper. Ms. Kearns responded that it has been her privilege and recognized her staff who think so much about South Burlington. CITY COUNCIL 20 AUGUST 2018 PAGE 6 14. Possible Executive Session to consider appointments to South Burlington Boards, Commissions and Committees: Ms. Emery moved that Council enter into executive session for the purpose of discussing appointments to South Burlington Boards, Commissions and Committees and include Messrs. Dorn and Hubbard in the session. Mr. Kaufman seconded. Motion passed unanimously. The Council entered executive session at 9:50 p.m. and resumed open session at 10:25 p.m. 15. Possible Appointments to South Burlington Boards, Commissions and Committees: Mr. Barritt moved to make the following appointments: Affordable Housing Committee (3-year terms): Tom Bailey and Leslie Black-Plumeau Bike Ped Committee: 3-year terms – Bob Britt, Katie Dolbec, Amanda Holland 2-year term – Bill Wooden City Charter Committee (3-year terms): Peter Taylor, Chuck Hafter Dog Park Committee (3-year terms): Barbara Sirvis, Linda Chiasson, Larry Kupferman, Robin Cruz; Betty Milizia (representing Natural Resources Committee) Development Review Board: 4-year term – Matt Cota 3-year term – John Wilking Economic Development Committee: 3-year terms – John Wilking, Seth Bowden, Michael Albertson, Jacob West 2-year term – Samuel Handy, John Burton, Linda Norris Energy Committee (3-year terms): Andrew Chalnick, Amanda Holland, Tim Perrin Library Board of Trustees (3-year terms): Nancy Fawley, Margaret Ann Cross, Penelope Tompkins Natural Resources Committee (3-year terms): Linda Chiasson, Betty Milizia, Lisa Yankowski Pension Advisory Committee (1-year term): Spencer Baker Planning Commission (3-year term): Bernard Gagnon Public Art Committee (3-year term): Amanda Holland, Jennifer Kochman Recreation & Parks Committee (3-year terms): Tammy Zylka, Michael Simoneau Sextons (3-year terms): Donna Kinville, Thomas Chittenden, Peter Taylor Airport Commission (3-year term): Helen Riehle CITY COUNCIL 20 AUGUST 2018 PAGE 7 Mr. Kaufman seconded. Motion passed unanimously. As there was no further business to come before the Council, Mr. Chittenden moved to adjourn. Mr. Barritt seconded. Motion passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 10:30 p.m. ________________________________ Clerk 575 Dorset Street South Burli ngton, VT 05403 tel 802.846.4106 fax 802.846.4101 www.sburl.com MEMORANDUM TO: Kevin Dorn, City Manager South Burlington City Council FROM: Paul Conner, Director of Planning and Zoning / Administrative Officer SUBJECT: 310 Market Street Road Improvement Impact Fee Request DATE: September 4, 2018 City Council meeting Chris Snyder of Snyder-Braverman Development, LLC is seeking approval for issuance of an in-kind credit for Road Improvement Impact Fees associated with the new building at 310 Market Street. Request: Impact Fee credit for roadway infrastructure improvements complete associated with 310 Market Street: Snyder-Braverman Development Company is seeking Impact Fee credits for infrastructure being constructed along a portion of Garden Street north of Market Street. Pursuant to SP-18-18, the applicant is required to construct Phase I of the Garden Street (488 feet north from Market Street) infrastructure indicated in subdivision approval #SD-18-13. The applicant is seeking a credit of $36,141.601, for roadway improvements described above that are estimated at $473,8002. Eligibility: Road Impact Fee Ordinance Section 8 - Credits for “In-Kind” Contributions A. "In-Kind" contribution shall mean provision, by a person subject to payment of an impact fee, of land or equipment or construction of facilities that are included in the impact fee analyses and computations, and which are included in or consistent with the City's Comprehensive Plan. B. Upon recommendation of the Development Review Board, the City Council may approve a credit against any impact fee levied under this ordinance for the value of "In-Kind" contributions. The amount of credit for an "In-Kind" contribution shall be based on the actual cost to the person requesting the credit of providing or creating the facilities. The Development Review Board shall indicate the basis on which the amount of credit is determined. The amount of credit for an "In-Kind" contribution shall not exceed the total amount of the impact fee for that type of facility which would otherwise be levied on the proposed development. 1 Per-unit transportation impact fees in 2018 are $602.36. 60 units x $602.36 = $36,141.60. 2 Estimated and confirmed costs for Phase I Garden Street construction pursuant to SP-18-18. 2 Analysis The cost estimate for this Phase I, submitted by the applicant and confirmed by the Director of Public Works, is $473,800 including a 15% contingency. Based on these figures, the applicant is eligible for a full credit of either amount requested. The proposed Garden Street roadway segment is eligible for issuance of a credit because the Impact Fee Ordinance specifically enumerates the “City Center Road Network” as a project for which funds can be used. Recommendation: The Administrative Officer recommends issuance of a credit in the amount of $36,141.60 for the project at 310 Market Street, which would be applied at the time of issuance of a zoning permit for the building. Though the Ordinance refers to the Development Review Board as making a recommendation on Impact Fee Credits, in this instance the review and approval of the Site Plan for 310 Market Street is delegated to the Administrative Officer under the Land Development Regulations. Therefore, the recommendation for credits against fees is also being issued by the Administrative Officer. Recommended Motion: That the City Council “grants a credit against Road Improvement Impact Fees of $36,141.60 to be enacted at the time of issuance of a zoning permit for construction of 310 Market Street as approved in SP-18-18.” TO: Kevin Dorn, City Manager FROM: Ilona Blanchard, Project Director SUBJECT: Public Hearings and Ballot Question related to a municipal building to be located at 180 Market Street housing a library, senior center and city hall. DATE: August 30, 2018 BACKGROUND: Design is underway for a new building at 180 Market Street that will house a library, senior center and city hall, and a public vote in November would position the building to open in 2020. This project is the result of significant public input and discussion at workshops, public and community meetings and in stakeholder groups regarding the interests of the community, future needs, design elements and how to balance priorities and capacities. Both the Library Board of Trustees and the Recreation and Parks Committee have endorsed the design (see Resolutions of Support, attached). At the last Council meeting, a cost estimate was presented, which included both cost reductions that had been discussed by the Council and for which there was clear consensus, and additional cuts of nearly $900,000 which will be identified as design continues. This indicated a budget for the project (see Project Cost Estimate, attached). Funding This project is anticipated to be funded with a mix of funding sources: City Center Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Reserve Funds, TIF District Financing, solar array revenues, impact fees, grants and capital campaign contributions. Impact fees, grants and capital campaign contributions will be Background, Continued, Page 2 used to reduce the amount of debt needed and to fund items that otherwise would not be able to be included in the project. Costs associated with the solar array on the roof for the building and the access street have been discounted in order to calculate a minimum authorization number for bond debt. $428,000 of funds raised by the Library (cash in hand) also reduced the total debt authorization. DEBT AUTHORIZATION. The draft ballot question (see Article I, attached) authorizes general obligation debt against the full faith and credit of the City for the bulk of the funding of the project ($20,400,000) which includes the building, site work, land acquisition, design, construction and owner fees and costs, and furniture and fit-up. Any debt secured under this authorization will not raise the tax rate. The two primary sources that would service this debt authorization are the City Center CIP Reserve Fund and TIF District Financing increment. At the time that the construction costs are known (once all portions of the project are bid out), based on the proposed authorization, the City Council will be asked to consider issuing debt (including any anticipation notes), which would most likely be two separate bond issuances, one serviced by TIF District financing, and one serviced by the City Center CIP Reserve Fund and impact fees. The requested authorization number is a ceiling of total debt. City Center CIP Reserve Fund. Reserve Funds, based on a Vermont Bond Bank estimated debt service schedule (see Estimated Debt Service Schedule, attached), would fully service the debt with a continued annual contribution of $736,000. This amount is already built into today’s tax rate, which is $124,000 below the recommended $860,000 annual contribution to the City Center CIP Reserve Fund (reached in FY 2017, but reduced to $750,000 in FY 2018). A public facilities impact fee study is being conducted. Funds raised by the potential impact fee would be eligible to be used to service the debt, similarly to the impact fee for the Police Station, reducing the amount of reserve funds that would be used. Background, Continued, Page 3 The Board of Trustees has been working with a fundraising consultant that specializes in libraries and has established a foundation. Funds raised by the Foundation would further reduce the amount of debt required to be taken out for the project that is serviced by the Reserve Fund. Note that the Reserve Fund also provides a cushion for TIF District Financing receivables (see Estimated Debt Service Schedule) as the South Burlington City Center, LLC property is built out and ongoing and proposed development projects in the TIF District go onto the Grand List. TIF District financing and a Substantial Change Amendment. TIF District financing may be used for a proportion of the project as authorized by the 2015 TIF District Financing Plan. This portion ranges from 10-30% depending upon the program element in the project. Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment (FFE) are not eligible for TIF financing. The proportion of the project that would be eligible to be serviced by TIF District Financing will change but is estimated to be roughly between 22-28%. The proportion of TIF District financing will be driven by both 1) the project final cost and square footage of each program element and 2) the TIF District Financing Plan authorization. The 2015 authorization (establishes proportions of the Library, Recreation (Senior Center), and City Hall that may be funded by City Center TIF District financing. It also lists a “maximum cost” to be paid with TIF Revenue based on the 2015 estimated cost (pre-land acquisition and design) which is lower than the current estimated costs for the Library and City Hall and much higher than for Recreation. The number shown in the attached Estimated Debt Service Schedule is for $5,000,000 of TIF District debt, which uses the proportional amount of the project (a higher amount) that may be funded rather than the “maximum cost” (a lower amount) that could be interpreted to cap the amount of TIF District Financing that may be used by the 2015 cost estimate. At this time the City is in discussions with the VEPC staff regarding the process the City will undertake to receive authorization to fund the full eligible proportion of the project with TIF District financing. The process will be either a “minor correction” or a “substantial change amendment”. In order to be prepared for either option, a public hearing has been warned, and a letter requesting a substantial change amendment has been developed for the Council’s consideration. Background, Continued, Page 4 Related Costs. “Related costs” are costs incurred in the establishment of the TIF District, administration of the TIF District and soft costs for project development. Some of these costs may not be reimbursed by bond debt, but are eligible for direct reimbursement to the City with excess TIF district increment once debt is serviced. The related cost authorization language in Article I provides for the City to be reimbursed from the TIF District funds for eligible related cost expenditures with any debt authorization that is not used to issue bond debt. ATTACHMENT: • Resolutions of Support from the Library Board of Trustees and the Recreation and Parks Committee • Project Cost Estimate • Article I • Estimated Debt Service Schedule • Substantial Change Amendment Request Letter • Project Schematic Floor Plans • Purpose and Need Statement approved by the Planning Commission and Library Board of Trustees (see link) RECOMMENDATION: Consider approval of the Substantial Change Amendment, the Necessity Resolution and Article I. ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATION: Ballots normally may be printed within ten days. For the November vote, military and overseas ballots are required to be mailed out by Clerk’s Office on September 21st. Resolution WHEREAS, the Library Board of Trustees has long sought a new Public Library for the citizens of our community, and WHEREAS, the Library Board of Trustees and the City have hosted numerous community conversations to gather community wants, needs, and desires, and WHEREAS, those community conversations garnered robust engagement and many ideas that have been taken into consideration in the current plans, and WHEREAS, the Library Board of Trustees, the Library Director, and library staff have worked diligently with city staff and architects to develop the current design and plans for a new community center that will contain City Hall, a Senior Center, and a new modern Public Library, and WHEREAS, this new community center concept supports the Library’s mission; “The South Burlington Library strengthens our community through abundant opportunities to learn, share and succeed.” And the library’s values of: Inclusivity, Respect, Helpfulness, Credibility, Fulfillment, Democracy, and Privacy, and WHEREAS, the Library Board of Trustees Design Committee is confident that the current design of the dedicated library spaces are appropriately sized and designed to support the collections and programs for a community of our size and makeup and that the space is sufficient and appropriate for the future growth of our community; NOW THEREFORE LET IT BE RESOLVED that the Library Board of Trustees endorses the concept and programmatic plan shared on June 25th, 2018, for a new South Burlington Public Library, City Hall, and Senior Center and urges the City Council to adopt the same. Adopted by the Library Board of Trustees on this 12th day of July 2018 On behalf of the Library Board of Trustees _______________________________ Patrick J. Leduc, Chair Project Cost Estimate Library, City Hall, and Recreation (Senior Center) at 180 Market Street Total Estimated Cost Components: Owners Costs except solar array and access road $4,498,000 Construction except solar array and access road $16,374,000 Construction of solar array and road $930,000 Total Estimated Cost: $21,802,000 Arriving at the Authorized Debt amount: Total Estimated Cost $21,802,000 Minus the cost for the solar array & access road $930,000 Minus the Blanchette Fund (reduces CIP Reserve funded debt amount, as would a Capital Campaign) $428,000 Remaining funding needed: $20,444,000 Recommended Bond Debt Authorization: $20,400,000 Estimated TIF District serviced Bond Debt $5,000,000 Estimated CIP Reserve Fund serviced Bond Debt $15,400,000 Estimated Annual General Fund level contribution amount to cover debt service: $736,000 8/28/2018 ARTICLE I Shall the City Council be authorized to pledge the credit of the City to secure indebtedness, to borrow, or to make direct payments of TIF increment for the purpose of funding one or more public infrastructure or capital improvements and related costs attributable to projects serving the City Center Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District in a new municipal structure at 180 Market Street including a community auditorium, specifically: (a) Library: (Public Library) including children’s, adult, large print, periodical, and audio/visual collections, activity-specific spaces such as for story-time and a digital lab, along with areas for quiet reading or active presentations and events, with outdoor reading space; (b) Recreation: (Senior Center) a large activity room, a living room, and kitchen for recreational use, including, but not limited to, daytime programming for older adults including onsite meals, social events, exercise and arts and other enrichment activities, and evening programming for all ages; (c) City Hall: (City Clerk, Planning & Zoning, Finance, City Manager, Human Resources, Customer Service), including administrative offices, public meeting rooms, service counters, and land and vital records vault; (d) Related Costs: reimbursement for TIF eligible related costs incurred by the City for the creation, implementation and administration of the City Center TIF District; in a total principal amount not to exceed Twenty Million Four Hundred Thousand Dollars ($20,400,000), and to make direct payments, issue bonds, notes or make interfund loans for such purposes with the understanding that tax increment from the properties within the City Center TIF District shall be pledged and appropriated in the approved portion for the payment of such indebtedness or direct costs of the improvements? The cumulative amount of City Center TIF tax increment financing debt approved to date is $5,000,000. YES (_____) NO (_____) Estimated Debt Services Schedule 2018 (FY)2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 Proposed TIF Bond Payment ($5M - Library, SC, CH)205,702 158,912 158,912 158,912 158,912 511,840 503,219 TIF Bond Payment ($5M - Market St., CC Park)134,661$ 162,133$ 162,133$ 162,133$ 162,133$ 162,133$ 491,383$ 482,933$ 473,983$ Projected TIF Increment *78,662$ 84,928$ 123,008$ 200,529$ 321,793$ 579,684$ 701,239$ 891,866$ 996,826$ Annual Balance (Receivable)(55,998)$ (77,205)$ (244,828)$ (120,516)$ 747$ 258,639$ 50,944$ (102,908)$ 19,624$ Cumulative TIF Fund Balance (Recievable)(55,998)$ (133,204)$ (378,031)$ (498,547)$ (497,800)$ (239,161)$ (188,217)$ (291,125)$ (271,501)$ Payment on 30 YR Bond - ($15.5 M)1,174,609$ 1,011,469$ 1,001,919$ 991,744$ 980,919$ 969,444$ 957,374$ Annual Transfer to CC Reserve Fund 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ Cumulative City Center Reserve Fund Balance 2,700,000$ 3,436,000$ 2,997,391$ 2,721,922$ 2,456,003$ 2,200,259$ 1,955,340$ 1,721,896$ 1,500,522$ Recievable CUSHION (Reserve + TIF Recievable)2,644,002$ 3,302,796$ 2,619,360$ 2,223,375$ 1,958,203$ 1,961,098$ 1,767,123$ 1,430,771$ 1,229,021$ From $860,000 transfer to the reserve fund Increase in Transfer to Reserve:(124,000)$ 2018 April 1 Grand List 30,079,129$ Increase in property tax rate:No Increase -0.41 cents or -0.0041 on the tax rate Cost Assumptions for Bond Calculation Preliminary Estimate:21,802,345$ Estimated Total Bond Debt:20,439,938$ or $20,400,000 Solar Array Attributed Costs 718,043$ Cash on Hand: Impact Fees (Highway)216,364$ Blanchette Fund 428,000$ Bond Debt Estimate:20,439,938$ VT Muni Bond Payment Schedule TIF Bond Eligible 5,000,525$ 5M, Interest at 3.35%, 19 Years, 5 year interest only Reserve Fund Serviced Bond 15,439,413$ 15.5M, Interest at 3.86%, 30 Years * increment is based on a projection including built new projects, projects in development and projects estimated to be developed by Snyder-Braverman or Black Bay. 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034 2035 2036 2037 2038 494,212 484,819 475,040 464,876 454,146 442,724 430,707 418,172 405,182 391,815 378,139 364,186 464,533$ 454,583$ 444,250$ 433,567$ 422,567$ 411,300$ 399,783$ 388,050$ 376,117$ 364,017$ 351,800$ 339,500$ 1,397,743$ 1,566,049$ 1,791,282$ 1,977,203$ 2,015,550$ 2,054,644$ 2,094,498$ 2,135,127$ 2,364,854$ 2,410,735$ 2,457,509$ 2,505,194$ 438,997$ 626,647$ 871,992$ 1,078,760$ 1,138,838$ 1,200,620$ 1,264,008$ 1,328,905$ 1,583,556$ 1,654,904$ 1,727,570$ 1,801,508$ 167,496$ 794,143$ 1,666,136$ 2,744,896$ 3,883,734$ 5,084,353$ 6,348,361$ 7,677,266$ 9,260,822$ 10,915,726$ 12,643,296$ 14,444,804$ 944,764$ 931,614$ 917,924$ 903,694$ 888,671$ 872,680$ 855,857$ 838,309$ 820,122$ 801,408$ 782,262$ 762,727$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 1,291,758$ 1,096,144$ 914,220$ 746,526$ 593,855$ 457,175$ 337,318$ 235,009$ 150,887$ 85,479$ 39,217$ 12,490$ 2039 2040 2041 2042 2043 2044 2045 2046 2047 2048 2049 2050 742,840$ 722,632$ 702,164$ 681,495$ 639,615$ 618,453$ 597,172$ 575,767$ 554,246$ 532,618$ 510,889$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 736,000$ 5,650$ 19,018$ 52,854$ 107,359$ 203,744$ 321,291$ 460,119$ 620,352$ 802,106$ 1,005,488$ 1,230,599$ 1,230,599$ 575 Dorset Street South Burlington, VT 05403 tel 802.846.4107 fax 802.846.4101 www.sburl.com UPUPUPUPSTOR.CLERKCLERK WORKAREAJAN.CORRIDORMENS RRAUD.STOR.INFOSTAIR BSTAGE STOR.VEST.STAIR AWORK RMAUDITORIUMA/V CL.SENIOR STOR.?TRASHELECMECHWOMENS RRCATERINGKITCHENSENIORACTIVITY RMCORRIDORLOBBYELEV AELEV BTWEENSACTIVITY RMCHILDRENSSTAFFOFFICESTOR.FAMILY RRLIVING ROOMEARLYLEARNING/LITERACYLIBRARYLOBBYSTORYTIMESTOR.ACT. 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STOR.MEETINGQUIETREADINGRM/BOOKGROUPLIBRARYSTACKSRAISEDREADINGAREACORRIDORMEETINGSTUDYSTUDYSTUDYSTOR.ROOF TERRACE OPEN TO BELOWLARGEMULTI-PURPOSERMRRFRIENDS OFLIBRARYJAN.Ownership of Instruments of Service All reports, drawings, specifications, computer files, field data, notes and other documents and instruments prepared by the Consultant as instruments of service shall remain the property of the Consultant. The Consultant shall retain all common law, statutory and other reserved rights, including the copyright thereto.7/31/2018 9:50:21 AM C:\Users\KDesRoches\Documents\2017065_R19_ARCH_KDesRoches.rvt 7/31/2018 9:50:21 AMLIBRARY + SENIOR CENTER + CITY HALL2017065 | Printed:LEVEL 2 PLANMarket St, South Burlington, VT RR RRSTAIR BSTAIR AELEV AROOF TERRACE ROOF TERRACE SKYLIGHT OPEN TO LIBRARY STAIR BELOWSHARED CITY& LIBRARYEMPLOYEESHARED CITY& LIBRARYEMPLOYEERRRRCITYMANAGEMENTPLANNING &ZONINGMEETINGMEETINGLARGEMEETINGOwnership of Instruments of Service All reports, drawings, specifications, computer files, field data, notes and other documents and instruments prepared by the Consultant as instruments of service shall remain the property of the Consultant. The Consultant shall retain all common law, statutory and other reserved rights, including the copyright thereto.7/31/2018 9:11:30 AM C:\Users\KDesRoches\Documents\2017065_R19_ARCH_KDesRoches.rvt 7/31/2018 9:11:30 AMLIBRARY + SENIOR CENTER + CITY HALL2017065 | Printed:LEVEL 3 PLANMarket St, South Burlington, VT NECESSITY RESOLUTION FOR INCURRING BONDED DEBT FOR A NEW MUNICIPAL BUILDING AND RELATED IMPROVEMENTS IN THE CITY CENTER TAX INCREMENT FINANCING DISTRICT WHEREAS, the City of South Burlington is a lawfully constituted and existing political subdivision and municipality of the State of Vermont; and, WHEREAS, the City desires to make public infrastructure and capital improvements at 180 Market Street that includes the erection of a Community Auditorium, Library, Recreation Facility, and City Hall in a new municipal building in the City Center Tax Increment Financing District (the “Work”); and WHEREAS, the public interest and necessity of the City of South Burlington require the Work to be performed; and WHEREAS, it is estimated that the total cost of the Work shall be Twenty-One Million Eight Hundred Thousand Dollars ($21,800,000) of which it is anticipated One Million Four Hundred Thousand Dollars ($1,400,000) will be raised through impact fees and interfund loans serviced by renewable energy revenues; and, WHEREAS, the total remainder of the cost of the Work ($20,400,000), after application of available funds from the United States of America and/or the State of Vermont, is too great to be paid out of the ordinary annual income and revenue of the City of South Burlington; and, NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the issuance of notes or other obligations of the City of South Burlington for costs associated with the Work, in an amount not to exceed Twenty Million Four Hundred Thousand Dollars ($20,400,000), shall be submitted to the voters of the City of South Burlington; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the proposition of incurring bonded debt for the purpose of paying for the Work should be submitted to the qualified voters of the City of South Burlington as follows: Shall the City Council be authorized to pledge the credit of the City to secure indebtedness, to borrow, or to make direct payments of TIF increment for the purpose of funding one or more public infrastructure or capital improvements and related costs attributable to projects serving the City Center Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District in a new municipal structure at 180 Market Street including a community auditorium, specifically: (a) Library: (Public Library) including children’s, adult, large print, periodical, and audio/visual collections, activity-specific spaces such as for story-time and a digital lab, along with areas for quiet reading or active presentations and events, with outdoor reading space; (b) Recreation: (Senior Center) a large activity room, a living room, and kitchen for recreational use, including, but not limited to, daytime programming for older adults including onsite meals, social events, exercise and arts and other enrichment activities, and evening programming for all ages; (c) City Hall: (City Clerk, Planning & Zoning, Finance, City Manager, Human Resources, Customer Service), including administrative offices, public meeting rooms, service counters, and land and vital records vault; (d) Related Costs: reimbursement for TIF eligible related costs incurred by the City for the creation, implementation and administration of the City Center TIF District; in a total principal amount not to exceed Twenty Million Four Hundred Thousand Dollars ($20,400,000), and to make direct payments, issue bonds, notes or make interfund loans for such purposes with the understanding that tax increment from the properties within the City Center TIF District shall be pledged and appropriated in the approved portion for the payment of such indebtedness or direct costs of the improvements? The cumulative amount of City Center TIF tax increment financing debt approved to date is $5,000,000. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a vote on said proposition shall be conducted by Australian Ballot at the Special City Meeting to be held on November 6, 2018 at the customary and usual polling places in the City at which meeting the polls will open at 7:00 o’clock in the forenoon and close at 7:00 o’clock in the afternoon; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Warning for the above mentioned Special City Meeting shall be published in the Other Paper on October 18, 25, and November 1, 2018 and that the Warning for such Meeting shall be posted in at least five public places in the City of South Burlington for two weeks immediately preceding such Meeting, and in or near the City Clerk’s office. The Warning shall also be posted on the City’s website; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the form of warning and of ballot, attached to this Necessity Resolution as Exhibit A and B respectively, are hereby approved. Dated at South Burlington, Vermont this 4th day of September, 2018. ______________________ ______________________ Helen Riehle, Chair Meaghan Emery, Vice Chair ______________________ _______________________ Tim Barritt, Clerk Thomas Chittenden _______________________ David Kaufman Received and recorded this ___ day of September, 2018. __________________________________________ Donna Kinville, City Clerk NECESSITY RESOLUTION FOR INCURRING BONDED DEBT FOR KENNEDY DRIVE STORMWATER POND #3 WHEREAS, the City of South Burlington is a lawfully constituted and existing political subdivision and municipality of the State of Vermont; and, WHEREAS, the City desires to reconstruct and improve the existing Kennedy Drive Stormwater Pond #3 under the State of Vermont Green Stormwater Sponsorship Pilot Program (the “Work”); and WHEREAS, the public interest and necessity of the City of South Burlington require the Work to be performed; and WHEREAS, it is estimated that the total cost of the Work will cost Three Hundred Thousand Dollars ($300,000); and, WHEREAS, the total cost of the Work, after application of available funds from the United States of America and/or the State of Vermont, is too great to be paid out of the ordinary annual income and revenue of the City of South Burlington; and, NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the issuance of notes or other obligations of the City of South Burlington for costs associated with the Work, in an amount not to exceed $300,000, shall be submitted to the voters of the City of South Burlington; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the proposition of incurring bonded debt for the purpose of paying for the Work should be submitted to the qualified voters of the City of South Burlington as follows: Shall bonds of the City of South Burlington be issued in an amount not to exceed Three Hundred Thousand Dollars ($300,000) to finance the reconstruction and improvement of the existing Kennedy Drive Stormwater Pond #3 (the “Project”) under the State of Vermont Green Stormwater Sponsorship Pilot Program, and paired with the Hadley Road Area Infrastructure Improvement Project bonds such that, at the end of construction of the Project, the approved indebtedness for the Project will be forgiven? BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a vote on said proposition shall be conducted by Australian Ballot at the Special City Meeting to be held on November 6, 2018 at the customary and usual polling places in the City at which meeting the polls will open at 7:00 o’clock in the forenoon and close at 7:00 o’clock in the afternoon; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Warning for the above mentioned Special City Meeting shall be published in the Other Paper on October 18, 25, and November 1, 2018 and that the Warning for such Meeting shall be posted in at least five public places in the City of South Burlington for two weeks immediately preceding such Meeting, and in or near the City Clerk’s office. The Warning shall also be posted on the City’s website; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the form of warning and of ballot, attached to this Necessity Resolution as Exhibit A and B respectively, are hereby approved. Dated at South Burlington, Vermont this 4th day of September, 2018. ______________________ ______________________ Helen Riehle, Chair Meaghan Emery, Vice Chair ______________________ _______________________ Tim Barritt, Clerk Thomas Chittenden _______________________ David Kaufman Received and recorded this ___ day of September, 2018. __________________________________________ Donna Kinville, City Clerk WARNING CITY OF SOUTH BURLINGTON SPECIAL CITY MEETING NOVEMBER 6, 2018 The legal voters of the City of South Burlington are hereby notified and warned to meet at their respective polling places at the Chamberlin School on White Street, the Frederick H. Tuttle Middle School on Dorset Street and the Orchard School on Baldwin Avenue on Tuesday, November 6, 2018 at 7 o’clock in the forenoon, at which time the polls will open until 7 o’clock in the evening, at which time the polls will close, to vote by Australian Ballot on the following Articles: ARTICLE I Shall the City Council be authorized to pledge the credit of the City to secure indebtedness, to borrow, or to make direct payments of TIF increment for the purpose of funding one or more public infrastructure or capital improvements and related costs attributable to projects serving the City Center Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District in a new municipal structure at 180 Market Street including a community auditorium, specifically: (a) Library: (Public Library) including children’s, adult, large print, periodical, and audio/visual collections, activity-specific spaces such as for story-time and a digital lab, along with areas for quiet reading or active presentations and events, with outdoor reading space; (b) Recreation: (Senior Center) a large activity room, a living room, and kitchen for recreational use, including, but not limited to, daytime programming for older adults including onsite meals, social events, exercise and arts and other enrichment activities, and evening programming for all ages; (c) City Hall: (City Clerk, Planning & Zoning, Finance, City Manager, Human Resources, Customer Service), including administrative offices, public meeting rooms, service counters, and land and vital records vault; (d) Related Costs: reimbursement for TIF eligible related costs incurred by the City for the creation, implementation and administration of the City Center TIF District; in a total principal amount not to exceed Twenty Million Four Hundred Thousand Dollars ($20,400,000), and to make direct payments, issue bonds, notes or make interfund loans for such purposes with the understanding that tax increment from the properties within the City Center TIF District shall be pledged and appropriated in the approved portion for the payment of such indebtedness or direct costs of the improvements? The cumulative amount of City Center TIF tax increment financing debt approved to date is $5,000,000. ARTICLE II Should the City acquire all necessary voter and permitting approvals to move its administrative offices to a new Municipal Building, shall the City Council be authorized to provide the City of South Burlington School District an option to lease that shall run for 180 days from the date the City moves its administrative offices to the new Municipal Building, and then enter into a three-year lease with two, three-year renewal terms along with an option to acquire the City property located at 575 Dorset Street and its related parking area, not to include the fire department facilities, from the City of South Burlington, provided it is used for School District purposes? ARTICLE III Shall bonds of the City of South Burlington be issued in an amount not to exceed Three Hundred Thousand Dollars ($300,000) to finance the reconstruction and improvement of the existing Kennedy Drive Stormwater Pond #3 (the “Project”) under the State of Vermont Green Stormwater Sponsorship Pilot Program, and paired with the Hadley Road Area Infrastructure Improvement Project bonds such that, at the end of construction of the Project, the approved indebtedness for the Project will be forgiven? ARTICLE IV Shall the voters of South Burlington advise the Governor and the Vermont General Assembly to support raising the age for the purchase of tobacco products in Vermont from 18 to 21 years of age? The legal voters of the City of South Burlington are further notified that a public hearing and information session on these ballot articles will be conducted on November 5, 2018 at 7 P.M. at South Burlington City Hall, 575 Dorset Street, South Burlington, Vermont. POLLING PLACES FOR VOTING ON THESE ARTICLES ARE THE CHAMBERLIN SCHOOL ON WHITE STREET, THE FREDERICK H. TUTTLE MIDDLE SCHOOL ON DORSET STREET AND THE ORCHARD SCHOOL ON BALDWIN AVENUE. VOTERS ARE TO GO TO THE POLLING PLACE IN THEIR RESPECTIVE DISTRICT. Dated at South Burlington, Vermont, this 4th day of September, 2018. ______________________ ______________________ Helen Riehle, Chair Meaghan Emery, Vice Chair ______________________ _______________________ Tim Barritt, Clerk Thomas Chittenden _______________________ David Kaufman Received and recorded this ___ day of September, 2018. __________________________________________ Donna Kinville, City Clerk Exhibit B OFFICIAL BALLOT ARTICLE I Shall the City Council be authorized to pledge the credit of the City to secure indebtedness, to borrow, or to make direct payments of TIF increment for the purpose of funding one or more public infrastructure or capital improvements and related costs attributable to projects serving the City Center Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District in a new municipal structure at 180 Market Street including a community auditorium, specifically: (a) Library: (Public Library) including children’s, adult, large print, periodical, and audio/visual collections, activity-specific spaces such as for story-time and a digital lab, along with areas for quiet reading or active presentations and events, with outdoor reading space; (b) Recreation: (Senior Center) a large activity room, a living room, and kitchen for recreational use, including, but not limited to, daytime programming for older adults including onsite meals, social events, exercise and arts and other enrichment activities, and evening programming for all ages; (c) City Hall: (City Clerk, Planning & Zoning, Finance, City Manager, Human Resources, Customer Service), including administrative offices, public meeting rooms, service counters, and land and vital records vault; (d) Related Costs: reimbursement for TIF eligible related costs incurred by the City for the creation, implementation and administration of the City Center TIF District; in a total principal amount not to exceed Twenty Million Four Hundred Thousand Dollars ($20,400,000), and to make direct payments, issue bonds, notes or make interfund loans for such purposes with the understanding that tax increment from the properties within the City Center TIF District shall be pledged and appropriated in the approved portion for the payment of such indebtedness or direct costs of the improvements? The cumulative amount of City Center TIF tax increment financing debt approved to date is $5,000,000. YES (_____) NO (_____) ARTICLE II Should the City acquire all necessary voter and permitting approvals to move its administrative offices to a new Municipal Building, shall the City Council be authorized to provide the City of South Burlington School District an option to lease that shall run for 180 days from the date the City moves its administrative offices to the new Municipal Building, and then enter into a three-year lease with two, three-year renewal terms along with an option to acquire the City property located at 575 Dorset Street and its related parking area, not to include the fire department facilities, from the City of South Burlington, provided it is used for School District purposes? Exhibit B YES (_____) NO (_____) ARTICLE III Shall bonds of the City of South Burlington be issued in an amount not to exceed Three Hundred Thousand Dollars ($300,000) to finance the reconstruction and improvement of the existing Kennedy Drive Stormwater Pond #3 (the “Project”) under the State of Vermont Green Stormwater Sponsorship Pilot Program, and paired with the Hadley Road Area Infrastructure Improvement Project bonds such that, at the end of construction of the Project, the approved indebtedness for the Project will be forgiven? YES (_____) NO (_____) ARTICLE IV Shall the voters of South Burlington advise the Governor and the Vermont General Assembly to support raising the age for the purchase of tobacco products in Vermont from 18 to 21 years of age? YES (_____) NO (_____) South Burlington City Council RESOLUTION Calling for the United States to “Pull Back from the Brink” and Prevent Nuclear War WHEREAS, since the height of the Cold War, the United States and Russia have dismantled more than 50,000 nuclear warheads, but over 14,000 of these weapons still exist and pose an intolerable risk to human survival; and WHEREAS, 95 percent of these weapons are in the hands of the United State and Russia and the rest are held by seven other countries: China, France, Israel, India, North Korea, Pakistan, and the United Kingdom1; and WHEREAS, the use of even a tiny fraction of these weapons would cause worldwide climate disruption and global famine; to wit, as few as 100 Hiroshima sized bombs, small by modern standards, would put at least 5 million tons of soot into the upper atmosphere and cause climate disruption across the planet, cutting food production and putting 2 billion people at risk of starvation2; and WHEREAS, a large scale nuclear war would kill hundreds of millions of people directly and cause unimaginable environmental damage3 and catastrophic climate disruption dropping temperatures across the planet to levels not seen since the last ice age; under these conditions the vast majority of the human race would starve and it is possible we would become extinct as a species4; and WHEREAS, despite assurances that these arsenals exist solely to guarantee that they are never used, there have been many occasions when nuclear armed states have prepared to use these weapons, and war has been averted only at the last minute5; and WHEREAS, nuclear weapons do not possess some magical quality that prevents their use; and WHEREAS, former Defense Secretary Robert McNamara said, speaking about the Cuban Missile Crisis, “It was luck that prevented nuclear war,” yet our nuclear policy cannot be the hope that luck will continue; and WHEREAS, as the effects of climate change place increased stress on communities around the world and intensify the likelihood of conflict, the danger of nuclear war will grow6; and 1 https://fas.org/issues/nuclear-weapons/status-world-nuclear-forces/ 2 http://www.psr.org/assets/pdfs/two-billion-at-risk.pdf 3 http://www.psr.org/assets/pdfs/projected-us-casualties-and-destruction.pdf 4 http://climate.envsci.rutgers.edu/pdf/RobockNW2006JD008235.pdf 5 http://www.ucsusa.org/sites/default/files/attach/2015/04/Close%20Calls%20with%20Nuclear%20Weapons.pdf 6 https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/once-again-climate-change-cited-as-trigger-for-war/ 2 WHEREAS, the planned expenditure of more than $1 trillion to enhance our nuclear arsenal will not only increase the risk of nuclear disaster but fuel a global arms race and divert crucial resources needed to assure the well-being of the American people and people all over the world7; and WHEREAS, there is an alternative to this march to nuclear war: in July 2017, 122 nations called for the elimination of all nuclear weapons by adopting the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons8. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of South Burlington, Vermont calls upon our federal leaders and our nation to embrace the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons and make nuclear disarmament the centerpiece of our national security policy. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council of South Burlington will appoint a local citizens commission to study the feasibility of the City of South Burlington becoming compliant with the requirements of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council of South Burlington, Vermont calls upon our federal leaders and our nation to spearhead a global effort to prevent nuclear war by: renouncing the option of using nuclear weapons first; ending the president’s sole, unchecked authority to launch a nuclear attack; taking US nuclear weapons off hair-trigger alert; cancelling the plan to replace its entire arsenal with enhanced weapons; and actively pursuing a verifiable agreement among nuclear armed states to eliminate their nuclear arsenals. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Administrative Assistant to the City Council shall cause a copy of this resolution to be sent to U.S. Congressman Peter Welch, U.S. Senator Patrick Leahy, U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, and U.S. President Donald J. Trump. Approved at South Burlington, Vermont this ______ day of September, 2018 ____________________________ ___________________________ Helen Riehle, Chair Meaghan Emery, Vice Chair ____________________________ ___________________________ Tim Barritt, Clerk Thomas Chittenden ____________________________ David Kaufman 7 https://www.armscontrol.org/factsheets/USNuclearModernization 8 http://www.icanw.org/treaty-on-the-prohibition-of-nuclear-weapons/