CC Minutes - 07/22/98 Work Session

Home Browse Search

Mr. Tollenaar moved, seconded by Ms. Nathanson, to accept the report and recommendations of the Mayor's Library Improvement Committee. The motion passed unanimously, 7:0. Mr. Tollenaar moved, seconded by Ms. Nathanson, to refer the $9.24 million library local levy to a public hearing on July 27, 1998. The motion passed unanimously, 7:0. B. Action: Mayor's Parks and Open Space Committee Proposal on a General Obligation Bond Levy Res. No. 4568--A resolution to place a $25.305 million 20-year Obligation Bond Levy for parks and open space acquisition on the November, 1998 ballot. Terry Smith, Acting Director of the Library, Recreation, and Cultural Services department, said before the council was the revised resolution that places the bond measure for parks and open spaces on the ballot. He called attention to changes in language to Sections H and I based on input from residents, the committee, and the mayor. Mr. Smith explained that the document would guide this and future councils in how the bond proceeds would be expended. Ms. Taylor expressed concern with the council "moving a little too fast," saying "there has been too little time to discuss the details." She added that people in the Amazon area are "not thrilled about two new ball fields in Amazon Park," particularly about adding more parking. Ms. Taylor said the council should take more time to think about how to develop parks and asked the council to add a few million for more open space. Ball fields can be developed at any time, she said, but acquiring land cannot be put off. Mr. Fart arrived at the meeting. Ms. Taylor suggested increasing the acreage for open space by about 5 million and cut down the amount of development. She urged the council to "save the land before it's all gone." Ms. Taylor moved, seconded by Mr. Meisner, that the staff come back with alternate proposals, including one that would add $5 million for more land and make some reductions elsewhere. Mr. Tollenaar expressed concern with both the amount and timing of the measure and said he would vote against the amendment. Ms. Nathanson said she anticipated that people would disagree with portions of the plan without having reviewed it thoroughly, but once studied it may likely garner support. She opposed "rethinking the whole plan," saying the committee spent much time discussing the details and finally agreed that the proposal advanced was one that they could "live with because it included enough to make a significant and noticeable difference" in the areas of concern. Mr. Meisner expressed support for the motion, agreeing with Ms. Taylor that it was urgent to acquire land now. He said he refused to spend scant park money on parking and wished to see more detailed options. MINUTES--Eugene City Council July 22, 1998 Page 4 5:30 p.m.