10/12/1992 Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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e Mr. MacDonald expressed concern with the "highest bidder" element in Option 4, saying it favored people with more money. He asked staff to explore a more equitable way of allocating space. Ms. Ehrman and Mr. Rutan arrived at the meeting. The motion was passed unanimously; 6:0, (Mr. Boles was not present for the vote). Responding to concern expressed by the council with regard to panhandling, City Attorney Glen Klein said the City Attorney's Office has previously considered the issue and believe it is possible to craft an ordinance; however, it will be expensive to craft and defend, if tested. He said that the City may end up defending it all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. The council decided not to pursue the issue further. B. EUQene Decisions Mr. Klein pointed out a memorandum in the meeting packet from Eugene Decisions staff with regard to development of tax ordinances, a draft of the charter amendment, and a draft resolution calling a special election. He noted that the charter amendment is the same document presented to the council at its last meeting, and the ordinance was crafted to meet the consensus of the council at that meeting. Ms. Ehrman asked the council to reconsider taxing items purchased in vending e machines. She also questioned taxing operations that offer food for sale to the public less than seven days per calendar year. Mr. Robinette said that his impression is that broadening the definitions for imposing the restaurant tax is causing problems in terms of goodwill. He said he is inclined to draw back to a more traditional definition of a restaurant. He also felt the council should have consensus, including councilors-elect, before proceeding with both the restaurant and gas tax. He suggested delaying a decision until a work session can be held with the new council after the election. Mr. Nicholson expressed concern with both postponing the decision indefinitely and reaching consensus. Mr. MacDonald agreed with narrowing the definition, but said the council is committed to resolving the tax issue. He felt the council must proceed with the transfer of street tree funds to the Road Fund. Ms. Ehrman expressed disappointment at the suggestion to delay the decision, saying the issue was previously raised and the council decided to proceed. She felt strongly that she and Mr. Rutan should participate in the process through its conclusion. Mr. Boles also supported narrowing the definition. With regard to postpone- e MINUTES--Eugene City Council October 12, 1992 Page 2 5:30 p.m.