10/23/1973 Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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f1.nanc]"iiIly--on a broader base. They also recommended -that the -c1. ty contract for a-n economic feasibility study by the consulting firm which prepared the Airport Master Plan in order to get a financial projection of the airport's ability to sustain it- self as well as suggest how to enhance its earning, capability, thereby making its e - ownership less burdensome to the County if it is willing to accept the facility. ' Norva1 Ritchey, member of the Airport Commission, told the Council that the-Commis- sion had given unanimous approval to the Task Force recommendations. Councilman McDonald thouqht it more appropriate that the County be asked to "approve the concept of County ownership" than to "accept ownership." Councilwoman Campbell asked if there had been any indication of how the County would finance the airport. She wondered what would happen if a financing proposal were rejected again by voters. Manager answered that there was no specific proposal. The recommended economic study would indicate the most appropriate method. Bob Shelby, ~airport manager, re~~that there- was some thinking in the County that financing - measures should be ironed out at staff 1 eve1f irst. TlieCofll17ii ssloners do not at this time have any particular plan for airport operation. Mr. Ritchey added that the economic feasibility study was included as a part of the total plan for transfer. The Commission was thinking of the possibility of the airport's being a profit- making venture in the next five to ten years. Councilman Wood expressed support for the recommended approach to provide a larger tax base for airport operation, and said the economic study seemed a logical first ~ !step in that direction. ' I Mr. McDonald moved seconded by Mr. Hershner to endorse by resolution the concept Comm of County ownership and operation of Mahlon Sweet Field. 10/10/73 Approve In answer to Councilman Keller, Manager said City capital investment at the airport would be transferred to the County. Vote was taken on the motion as stated. Motion carried unanimously. D.'Economic Feasibility Study, Mah10n Sweet Field - Recommendation was to engage Arnold Thompson Associates at an estimated cost of $8,000 to prepare an economic feasibility study on Mah10n Sweet Field. The project would be funded from airport funds and would not come from the City's general fund. Comm Mrs. Beal moved seconded by Mr. McDonald to authorize a contract as recommended. 10/10/73 Approve - -- -..- - - - -, Councilman Murray asked why the City should obtain the economic study if there is' I possibility of County ownership. Manager explained that regardless of ownership the information will be needed. It will help the County in consideration of owner- _ , ship. If the facility stays with the City, projections on earning capacity and . how it will be accomplished will be necessary in facing future capital improvements. Assistant Manager added that the study would also help in renegotiating contract with air carriers. .In answer to Councilman Wood, Manager said the contract provides for completion of :the study 90 days from date of notice to proceed. ,Vote was taken on the motion as stated. Motion carried unanimously. , Councilwoman Campbell expressed concern about the trend of transferring pUblic facilities and attendant responsibilities to fewer elected officials, referring to Lane County's three commissioners versus the City's eight council members, re- 'cent transfer of the jail, current consideration of the airport, and future possi- bility of County library system. Councilman Wood noted-,the regional nature of the facilities mentioned. Mayor Anderson observed that thE!Commissioners serve 'on a compensated full-time basis. E..Appeal from Planning Commission denial of rezoning, Earl Green property north of Kins Row, south of I-10S - From RA to R-2 PD (October 2, 1973) Mrs. Bea1 moved seconded by Mr. Wood to schedule public hearing at November 5,1973 Council meeting. Motion carried, all council members present voting aye except _, Comm . Mr. Hershner abstaining. )0/10/73 - Approve Councilman Hershner said he would abstain on any matter relating to this issue since his-law firm represents Earl Green. 3' S 10/23/73 - 6