HomeMy WebLinkAbout06/09/1980 Meeting
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M I NUT E S
EUGENE CITY COUNCIL
June 9, 1980
Regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Eugene, Oregon, was called to
order at 7:30 p.m., June 9, 1980, in the City Council Chamber by His Honor Mayor
Gus Keller, with the following councilors present: Betty Smith, Scott Lieuallen,
Brian Obie, Jack Delay, D. W. Hamel, Gretchen Miller, and Emily Schue. Councilor
Eric Haws was absent.
I. AWARD CEREMONY FOR CUB SCOUT DEN 2, PACK 26
Mayor Keller stated there are about 30 different commissions and boards
whose members volunteer their time to the City as do those on the City
Council. Tonight, he noted it is a special pleasure to welcome a new
generation and he feels it is appropriate that the City recognize these
people. On April 21, this group of Cub Scouts took it upon themselves
to construct a pathway through a neighborhood park. It was a fine effort
and they will receive merit badges for this project. He introduced the
volunteers individually.
II. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Appeal of Zone Request Denial by Planning Commission for Property
Located North of 15th Avenue on the West Side of Villard Street From
R-1 Low Density Residential District to C-2/SR Community Commercial
District with Site Review Procedures (University of Oregon/Rena Cowan)
(Z 80-8) (map distributed)--Mr. Henry stated this is an appeal of a
portion of a zone request denial by the Planning Commission. He
introduced Jerry Jacobson, Planning, to provide background information.
Mr. Jacobson stated that on April 21, 1980, the zone change request
was denied for five tax lots from R-1 to RG/SR and for two tax lots
from R-1 to C-2/SR. Only the zone change request for the two tax lots
is being appealed. The Planning Commission found no evidence of need
for the C-2/SR request. These two tax lots (6600 and 6700) are
on the west side of Villard from 15th to Franklin and contain a total
of 20,272 square feet. Both lots are developed with single-family
residences. The property south is zoned R-1 and consists of single-
family residences. The property west is zoned R-1 and developed with
single-family residences or University uses. The property east is
zoned C-2/SR and is owned by McDonald's Restaurant. South of the
restaurant zoning is R-2 and R-1, and immediately north of the
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restaurant is property zoned C-2/SR with single-family residences.
Further to the north is the Franklin Boulevard commercial strip.
Several recent rezoning requests have been considered by the City
involving property on Villard north of 15th. In 1976, the Planning 4IJ
Commission recommended a zone change at 15th and Franklin to RP. The
applicant submitted additional materials, including a map which
indicated the vacant property north of Franklin in the Garden Avenue
area. Out of 18 acres, 4.5 acres are developed for residential
purposes.
Adrienne Lannom, Planning Commission, stated that there are several
references to condemnation in the material that has been presented.
The minutes of the April 21 Planning Commission meeting, when a public
hearing was held, refer to a question of Mr. David Rowe regarding
condemnation. The Planning Commission had pursued this issue only
because the applicant or the applicant's representative had brought
the issue up earlier although this earlier discussion had not been
noted in the minutes. There was no consideration of condemnation in
the commission's deliberation.
Public hearing was opened.
Ms. Smith noted she would abstain because of a possible conflict of
interest.
Speaking in favor of the rezoning:
Dr. Rena Cowan, 1055 Linda Lane, Springfield, stated she is the owner
of the Eugene Animal Hospital, which has been on Franklin Boulevard 4It
for 30 years. She has been there for seven years. When she bought
the practice, she did not buy the property, but has a lease and
can buy at any time she desires. Franklin Boulevard is an expensive
location since it is more commercial than it was 30 years ago. It is
hard for smaller businesses to compete in that area and the traffic
flow is awkward. She is concerned because Franklin Boulevard has
heavy traffic and animals have gotten loose from their owners and
dashed into the street. The building is not suitable for her needs
since it is too large, expenses are high, andsfn'ce there is not enough
parking she is unable to rent out a portion of it. Problems with
the building are forcing her to leave her location. There are some
possible solutions: 1) she could buy the hospital, sell it and buy
other property in the area, although at this point there is none
available. She has surveyed the Garden Avenue property to see if it
is for sale but it is not. Tax Lots 6600 and 6700 (where Mockney's
Barbeque was located) are available for $15 per square foot, which is
considerably higher than most property of this kind and it is long and
narrow which seems like jt could be a problem; 2) she could trade with
the University of Oregon which she is pursuing; or 3) she can leave
the neighborhood.
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She operates a low-cost spay/neuter clinic and serves a large elderly
and student clientele. Fairmount Neighbors voted 21:11 to support her
request for rezoning and building her hospital over there. There is a
puolic need.
Speaking against the rezoning:
Sally Weston, 2595 Highland Drive, stated the request for C-2 zoning
seems more in terms of the University's needs for additional space and
they have not submitted any testimony on their own behalf. At the
Planning Commission meeting, Mr. Rowe testified that the University
is in desperate need of additional space but does not know what
it\would use this property for. To be considered with the applica-
tion is a written statement that offers good arguments for holding on
to all the residential property that the University holds. She does
not think the situation has changed that much from when it was heard
by the Planning Commission and she does not feel this would be a good
investment of public funds. Sometimes temporary situations become
permanent. The University has not demonstrated a need at this partic-
ular time for this particular property. There is no evidence of a
public need for this trade. She urged the council to uphold the
Planning Commission's decision.
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Marna Broekhoff, 1844 Kona Street, is Co-President of the Fairmount
Neighbors. The council should have received testimony from the public
hearing on April 21. She feels that no isolated zone changes east of
the University should be maqe until a refinement plan is adopted.
This request should be denied, particularly since it is a residential-
to-commercial zoning.
Mr. Jacobson stated the request is for a change of zone to C-2 not
whether there should be an animal hospital there. He stated the
Planning Commission vote was 5:1, not 5:0.
In rebuttal, Tom Moreland, 44 Club Road, stated the Planning Commis-
sion action surprised him although this request is for only a portion
of the original request. This request does comply with the compre-
hensive plan and vacant land does not necessarily mean available land.
This would be an opportunity for the University to consolidate its
land since it would remove one island in that area. The southern
boundary of this request is still north of McDonald's across the
street.
There being no further testimony, public hearing was closed.
Staff notes and minutes were entered into the record.
Mr. Obie asked the staff to clarify what land was available in that
vicinity. Mr. Jacobson responded that approximately two of the 18
acres of land in the Garden Avenue area are vacant. Mr. Obie asked
about vacant land south of Franklin Boulevard. Mr. Jacobson responded
that there is none.
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Ms. Miller stated this is a difficult issue since the animal hospital
does provide a needed service. The University holds much of the land
in that area and much of the residential use of the land is for ~
student rentals. She stated there is a definite need for refinement ~
planning in the East University neighborhood. She realizes that
vacant property is not necessarily available property. There is a
need to work with the businesses, the University and the neighborhood
to determine where residential and commercial areas should be. She
hoped the animal hospital can remain until a refinement pl an can be
done.
Mr. Lieuallen moved, seconded by Mr. Hamel, to deny the appeal and
adopt the Planning Commission's findings.
Mr. Delay agreed with Ms. Miller. In a zoning request there must be a
demonstrated public need. The private need factor could be bolstered
with the University's needs and the swap which would constitute a
public need. All of this does not necessarily make a strong need. He
feels this should remain status quo until a refinement plan is finished.
Mr. Obie agreed the refinement plan is needed but thinks a decision
should be made now about this particular request. He thinks the
Planning Commission decision may not best serve the city in this
instance. When the Planning Commission varies from the General Plan,
they should make their case. It should not be up to the applicant.
He thinks generally that the hospital would be better on the south
side rather than the north side and will oppose the motion. He also
feels that medical and dental services should be available in that
area.
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Mr. Delay stated he agreed with the need factor but this is a quasi-
judicial procedure rather than a legislative format. Zoning would be
for the property rather than for the business that would be located on
it.
Roll call vote; motion carried 5:1, with Mr. Obie voting no and
Ms. Smith abstaining.
B. Council-Initiated Improvement Project Resolution (memo/map distributed)
Mr. Henry stated thlS concerns the proposed pavlng of Martin street
between Center Way and West Amazon Drive. This is a council-initiated
improvement and was before the council in 1973. There are very strong
reasons for proceeding with this improvement. He introduced Dave
Reinhard, Public Works, to give background information.
Mr. Reinhard indicated that the staff memo attached to the agenda
summarizes the reasons for the proposal. At the time the council
first considered this project they decided not to proceed primarily
because of the large assessment that would be levied each property
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owner, and the undeveloped nature of the property. Since then, the
frontage along Martin Street has been almost totally developed with
single-family houses and duplexes. In addition, the City has selected
this street as one of its high-priority top ten "dusty roads" projects,
aimed at reducing the particulate component of Eugene's air pollution
problem. Lane Transit District views Martin Street as a link in its
southeast Eugene system. They have requested paving of this street
and the council has acknowledged bus routes as an important consider-
ation in initiating paving projects.
Mr. Reinhard said the council received a letter from Mr. Leong who was
concerned that the existing environment in the area would be harmed by
paving that street. Mr. Reinhard said he had been contacted by Mr.
Leong and one other resident earlier in the day and residents on the
south side of Martin Street had met last night and are now favoring
the project and appreciate the changes that staff has made. They do
have concerns with drainage as they built their houses with roof
drains and the road design is higher than the roof drains. Mr.
Reinhard said the City will help them solve their drainage problems.
Public hearing was opened.
Speaking in favor:
George Montoya, Lane Transit District Planner, stated that LTD supports
the paving project since it will require less maintenance of their
vehicles.
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Albert Leong, 870 Martin Street, stated he was in qualified support of
the project and dlstrlbuted two handouts: a diagram and an overlay.
He commended the Public Works staff. He urged consideration of the
drainage problems in the neighborhood prior to paving or widening. He
also commended the Public Works Department for preserving trees and
the environment in the area, and noted that the neighbors support the
proposed plans for developing a system of bike and jogging trails.
Speaking against:
Ronald Sticka, 828 Martin Street, indicated qualified opposition and
stated they have a unique problem of water on Martin Street. He
commended Bert Teitzel, Dave Reinhard, and Jim Hanks for their open-
ness in dealing with the residents in this area. He stated dust is
often raised by excessive bus speed. He feels the street will be
paved so they would like to see a plan involving storm sewers for peak
drainage seasons. He wondered what could be done for drainage. They
are at the head waters of Amazon Creek and there is a flood approxi-
mately everyone out of six years. They would like continuation of
their subterranean drainage system. They are concerned about flooding
and feel an additional study of the drainage problem would be good to
determine the necessity of a new drainage system. They recommend
postponing a decision or bid submission until this study is completed.
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There being no further testimony, public hearing was closed.
Mr. Reinhard asked Mr. Sticka to go into more detail about the drain-
age channel. Mr. Sticka responded that during the past 20 years there 4It
have been floods three times. He indicated the drainage channel is
south of the road. Mr. Reinhard stated the present proposal is to
pipe the water which flows from southeast to northwest which should
handle the problem. They will double check, come out and meet with
the neighbors. Mr. Sticka said they would appreciate that.
Mr. Hamel asked if the street would be 28 feet wide with sidewalks
only on one side. Mr. Reinhard responded that there would be parking
on only one side, but there would be sidewalks on both sides except
for where the park land is. In response to Councilor Hamel's question
regarding the width being sufficient for bicycles and cars, Mr.
Reinhard stated that Martin Street would remain a local street and
there would be no significant problem. The long-range bike planning
system would include coming south to Amazon Channel and then up
to Martin Street to West Amazon Drive.
Mr. Obie asked what could be done with the design to take care of the
flooding problem. Mr. Reinhard stated they could make sure the
design would handle floods. He thinks there is also a solution for
their roof drain concern. Mr. Obie asked if they have designed
to the five-year flood level. Mr. Reinhard responded affirmatively.
Mr. Obie asked why the City's portion of this paving project was so
large. Mr. Reinhard responded that it was due to the cost of the
extra storm drain system and extensive park land. This assessment
would be billed to the Parks and Recreation Department. Ms. Schue ~
hoped for continued cooperation so the problem could be resolved. '
Res. No. 3384--A resolution authorizing street paving and sidewalk construc-
tion on Martin Street from West Amazon to Center Way
Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, to adopt the resolu-
tion. Roll call vote. Motion carried unanimously.
C. Condominium Conversion Ordinance--Mr. Henry stated this is a long and
compllcated ordinance that has been before the council twice and is
scheduled for a public hearing. The moratorium is in effect until
June 23. There is pressure to bring it to a successful conclusion.
He introduced the following staff for background information: Tim
Sercombe, Jim Croteau, Jim Farah, Robin Johnson, Betty Niven--who
prepared the table of contents, formula calculations, and index--and
Councilor Delay, chairperson of the task force.
Mr. Sercombe stated that on November 26, 1979, Ordinance No. 18535 was
established to provide a moratorium on condominium conversion. A task
force was initiated to handle the following charges: criteria for
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conversion; reduction of the impact of conversion; purchaser protec-
tion; building inspection; a reasonable balance between rental and
owned housing; to encourage the construction of multi-family housing;
and to maintain housing for special category tenants. The Condominium
Task Force met from December 1979 through May 1980. The ordinance
protects existing tenants, special category tenants, and purchasers of
converted units through mandatory disclosure of the condition of the
building. Protection for existing tenants includes disclosure of
conversion intent by the developer, the affected tenant has a right to
stay in his/her housing unit for six months after notice of planned
conversion, no conversion or tenant displacement will occur if demand
for rental housing seriously exceeds the supply under the formula, and
special category tenants will not be evicted unless two independent
offers of comparable housing units are given to each such tenant which
would be offered through a housing counselor paid for by the developer.
Moving expenses would also be paid by the developer.
Purchasers are protected in the following ways: the unit must be in
compliance with the housing code at the time of sale; the developer is
required to warrant or guarantee that the common elements of the
building and its components will operate for two years which will be
backed by bond or cash escrow account; the developer must fund the
initial replacement reserve account of the unit owners association;
the purchaser must be informed of the condition of the building prior
to sale through a certified report of a licensed engineer or archi-
tect; and no developer will be allowed to negotiate for the sale of
condominium units or cooperative shares for respective tenants until
issuance of a preliminary permit to convert is issued by the City of
Eugene. No developer is allowed to transfer ownership of any condo-
minium unit or cooperative share until he/she has obtained a final
permit for condominium conversion by the City of Eugene.
The ordinance requires two permits--a preliminary permit and a final
permit. In order to obtain a preliminary permit a developer must:
1) have the building to be converted inspected for code compliance;
2) obtain a certified report from a qualified, licensed engineer
describing the condition and expected useful life of the components
of all the common elements of the building; 3) notify all tenants of
their rights under the ordinance and provide them with information on
the condominium conversion process; 4) provide information to the City
on the condition of the building, the rental history of the building
for the previous three years, and information on the tenants' partic-
ular needs; and 5) provide moving expenses, a housing counselor, and
comparable housing units offers to special category tenants. To
obtain a final conversion permit, the developer must: 1) execute a
warranty guaranteeing the good condition of each component of the
common elements in a building for a period of two years; 2) set up
a cash reserve escrow account with benefits of the unit owners associ-
ation; 3) repair all housing code violations; and 4) pay the conversion
fee.
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There are several pertinent definitions, one of which is common
elements which means existing for the benefit or common use of
more than two units or share owners, and comparable housin~ which .
involves seven factors used in determining whether a unit lS compar-
able (such as size, gross rent, and number of bedrooms with others
~equiring the exercise of judgment requiring similar heating and
cooling systems, kitchen and bath facilities, special facilities for
special category tenants, and accessibility to community services.
The last four factors must be similar but do not require exact equiv-
alency). Conversion is defined as a situation where two or more
rental housing units sharing a common element are converted to
separate ownership interests. Cooperative housing units would be
living units having separate kitchen facilities. Late in the deli-
berations of the task force, it was decided to include cooperatives
so this form of housing could not be used as a means for bypassing the
condominium conversion process. The Director of HCC can waive partic-
ular requirements for cooperatives in particular situations. A waiver
can only occur if there is an adopted administrative rule identifying
a particular regulatory requirement as equivalent. The tenants cannot
waive their rights but they can be negotiated. He added that there is
a $500 conversion fee per unit.
Mr. Delay stated it has been a pleasure to work with the task force
and the public in these open discussions. The council has expressed
its concern that they not stand in the way of new multi-unit construc-
tion, so he proposes to exempt from most regulations of the condominium
ordinance units that are less than ten years old and were constructed
after 1975. This would be primarily those who have conversion as part
of the financing package. He requested staff to come back with a ~
proposal on this matter. :
Mr. Obie stated concurrence with Mr. Delay. He feels that elimina-
tion of most requirements except for the special category aspect is
an excellent one. He questioned using both a ten-year figure and
construction after 1975.
Mr. Delay indicated the ten-year stipulation would apply to future
construction. Mr. Obie asked if this would encourage people to
convert prior to the building becoming ten years old. Mr. Delay
stated that it would; if the financing package includes conversion
in the first ten years then this would not stand in the way of that
financing proposal. Mr. Obie wondered if they would be better off
to eliminate the ten-year stipulation and indicate that those units
built in or after 1975 are only subject to the special category
requirements. Then they would not be encouraging conversions within
the first ten years. Mr. Delay stated this could eliminate the impact
of the conversion formula. Ms. Smith stated she supports Mr. Delay's
suggestion for staff to bring back additional language. Mr. Lieuallen
asked how the conversion formula would be affected under this formula.
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Mr. Oelay stated that these units would be included in computing
the formula but would be excluded from the number of allowable units
that could be converted. This would, then, not stand in the way of
new multi-unit construction. In response to Mr. Lieuallen, Mr. Delay
clarified his proposal by saying it would apply to those built after
1975 but less than ten years old.
Ms. Schue said she agrees with the general idea but wondered how it
would affect cooperative housing. Generally, cooperative housing is
for low-income people and is promoted by the City. These units would
be taxed at $500 each and one would be taxing low-income people to
raise funds for low-income housing.
Ms. Miller stated that Mr. Delay's proposal seems like a sensible
suggestion. The ten-year figure is to try to coincide with balloon
payment financing. There would be less need to inspect structures
that were less than ten years old.
Mr. Obie stated he feels this would be encouraging people to convert
within the first ten years and he would not like to encourage that.
Mr. Lieuallen was concerned that people could rent and not know that
the building would be converted before it was ten years old. Mr.
Oelay noted these people would be covered under displacement regula-
tions. Mr. Lieuallen asked.if there could be a way to ensure that
notification would be given to the tenant prior to conversion; he
feels these people should be informed that they might face conversion.
Mr. Hamel asked how these protections apply to the people who live in
the new apartment buildings for low-income people on 8th and 11th
avenues since there is a tax-deferred status for 10- years.
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Jim Croteau, Planning, stated the apartments at 11th and Olive would
remain rentals in perpetuity.
Robin Johnson stated that regarding the Lawrence Street apartments, .
part of the agreement with the City was that they must remain in low-lncome
rental status for 30 years. The agreement with Olive Plaza was that
they must pay back the subsidy if they convert.
Recess was called.
Mayor Keller stated that, due to lack of time this evening, there are
two alternatives: 1) to shorten discussion on the condominium item to
20 minutes for each side; and 2) to limit discussion on the proposed
euthanasia ordinance or to delay it, which he would hate to do since
there are people present from out of town. Council consensus was to
shorten the length of time to 20 minutes for each side for the condo-
minium item. Written testimony will be accepted through noon on
Friday, June 13. The condominium issue will be placed on the June 18
agenda for a decision.
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Public hearing was opened.
Speaking in favor:
Mark lindberg, 1750 Olive Street, Board of Directors of the Neighbor- ~
hood Housing Resource Center, expressed appreciation for the staff ,.,
work and shares the council concerns. He finds it regrettable that
cooperatives were included because it will penalize low-income,
non-profit cooperatives. He urged the councilors to approve the
condominium ordinance but to remove the language dealing with cooper-
atives. Including cooperatives at this time would be premature and
more information is needed before dealing with them. He suggested
the task force should continue its review of cooperatives.
Rick Goldstein, 1610 Jefferson, stated he is from the Jefferson Area
Neighborhood Executive Committee and supports the position stated by
Mr. Lindberg. He feels that a $500-per-unit charge will inhibit
low-income residents from forming low-income, non-profit cooperatives.
Laurence Hawkins, 1080 Patterson, stated he lives at Patterson Towers
and agrees with Mr. Lindberg that cooperatives should be eliminated
from the ordinance.
John Vanlandingham, 2207 Harris, lane County Legal Aid, stated he
had testified in November. He has concerns about "moving trauma" of
the special-category tenants, and fear that conversion may cause a
reduction in rental housing stock in Eugene. He noted the task force
met 15 times and every meeting was open to the public. He urged
inclusion of a life tenancy section for special-category tenants but
supports the present ordinance. He is concerned about Mr. Delay's ...
proposal and feels it could be a loophole. He would request the task .
force to come back with more information.
Anne Mahler, 1080 Patterson, stated she would not testify because her
concerns had been addressed.
Charles Strong, 495 West 26th Avenue, is a member of the Eugene Aging
Commission and its task force on condominium conversion. He noted his
. statement would refer to the ordinance only as it affects the elderly,
handicapped, and low-income persons (called special-category tenants),
who .are the people that originally apprised the City of the impending
conversion problem. The task force and staff have worked long and
hard to produce the proposed ordinance, and it is a good improvement
over previous drafts, but it is still flawed in the area of comparable
housing as: 1) no consideration is given to the tenant whose physical
and/or mental condition makes a move to new housing traumatic or
possibly fatal; 2) no consideration is given to amenities which may
be more important than physical features, such as pets, noise, dust,
garden, etc.; 3) new housing costing 50-percent more per square
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foot is considered comparable in the ordinance; and 4) the word
"comparable" does not mean equal or equivalent or similar. The word
is so inappropriate as to be possible grounds for chaflenging the
intent of the ordinance. He added he is supporting passage of the
ordinance.
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Wickes Seal, 712 East 16th Avenue, member of the Aging Commission,
stated that since the Delay proposal will not affect special-category
tenants, they would favor it. She hopes the ordinance will be passed
promptly but if changes are made she hopes they will give more pro-
tection to aging, handicapped, and low-income people. She knows staff
and the task force have worked hard, listened carefully, and have been
responsive. She appreciates the fact that they invited everyone to
work with them. She is still concerned about the housing facilitator
and would prefer that the City select and pay this individual rather
than the developer. Perhaps the City could maintain a list of facili-
tators that the developers could select from.
Hank Murrow, 1215 Arthur Street, Neighborhood Housing Resource Center,
feels that language regarding cooperatives would affect their corpora-
tion. The Neighborhood Block Corporation is a mini-economic development
corporation in the Far West Neighborhood which has taken advantage of
the City's PUD process for a low-income cooperative. He would like
language dealing with cooperatives stricken at this time.
Eve Horn stated she would submit written testimony.
Olivia N. Clark, 327 West 5th Avenue, said she supported the ordinance
but is not in favor of it as it relates to cooperatives. She does
not feel as much time was:spent with the cooperative issue as was
spent with condominiums and this would penalize groups that have been
working with the City's HCC Department. She feels capital may not be
available for low-income non-profit cooperatives to pay the $500-per-
unit tax and would like to make certain that the door is not closed to
these groups. She suggested striking the language referring to
cooperatives from the ordinance.
Clark Cox, 1085 Patterson, Apt. 9, stated that he favors deletion of
the $500 fee. He favors the ordinance in principle but is concerned
about cooperatives being included. He has a mental and physical
disability according to Social Security standards but would probably
not be considered a special-category tenant by the standards within
this ordinance. Social Security has stated that he is not employable,
yet he would not be able to be involved in cooperatives should they be
included in this ordinance. On page 17, paragraph 1, there is mention
of leased units and he would also be excluded from recourse because he
has a month-to-month rental agreement as do many other people. He
feels the loopholes should be blocked.
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Speaking against the ordinance:
John Bennett, Director of Planning and Governmental Affairs, Home
Builders Association of Lane County, stated the purpose of his testi- ~
mony is to ask for a two-week delay to allow for adequate review by
the housing industry of an ordinance that will have a long-term effect
on the variety of housing types in the city of Eugene. He feels less
than one week is not enough time for a responsible public review of
what has developed into a very complex ordinance with legal, social,
and planning implications. The additional time would allow the
industry to determine if and how the proposal can be modified to
better serve the full spectrum of existing and future renters and
purchasers of converted units since they are the ones that must meet
the requirements of the ordinance.
They also do not feel that the ordinance will, in the long run, help
maintain an adequate supply of rental units due to the low return on
investment and other difficulties encountered in the market for
providing rentals. The only practical means now through the 1980's
for building units for rent may be leaving open the option for future
conversion to units for sale. Conversion of existing rental units is
providing the means so that first-time home buyers can enter the
owner-occupied housing market. Conversion of existing units, partic-
ularly at the low rate at which it is taking place in Eugene, helped
satisfy many of the stated goals of the City of Eugene and the State's
LCDC Goal 10 (Housing), which strive to provide a variety of housing
opportunities and, as now written, the ordinance would appear to have
a negative impact on the ability to meet these stated goals.
They also feel that the tax would place a burden on future purchasers
of the units that. is not required of any other segment of the popula-
tion seeking housing. The purchasers of converted rental units will,
in effect, be subsidizing public housing programs in the city of
Eugene in a way not imposed on other owner-occupied units, with their
mobile home, single-family, or the recent allowed duplex ownerships.
Costs incurred in complying with this ordinance will be passed onto
the future purchasers who are unfortunately not identifiable as a
group now and are, therefore, unaware of what this proposal will cost
them at a future date. They feel the existing proposal far exceeds
the needs of the city of Eugene and request more time to mold this
proposal into a workable document. He added that the Delay proposal
suggested this evening sounds good.
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Richard Oehler, 520 Kingswood, stated he is an apartment complex owner
and believes this law is completely unnecessary and counterproductive
to developing more housing in Eugene. He is an investor and his
living is not made from the housing industry but, rather, these funds
go toward his retirement planning and estate building. The natural
process of rental property is to be built, depreciated, then sold or
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upgraded before selling and one form of upgrading available is condo-
minium conversion. If that option is lost in Eugene, construction of
a sizable development will slow or stop. It would be foolish for him
to invest in Eugene when he can go to another "forward thinking"
community where those options are available. There has been less
housing started in Eugene in the last three years and increased costs
and decreased rents are the factors.
Conversion is a national phenomenon. He feels the council cannot
legislate how and where investors will invest their money as invest-
ments are determined by the potential profit in the free enterprise
system. New, large rental developments will not be built in this
community by private funds with this type of law and, therefore,
Eugene will have lost new housing. In condominium conversion, no
housing will be lost and, in fact, the building of more units for
later conversion will be encouraged.
He feels this law implies that owners are a repugnant breed who throw
handicapped or elderly citizens into the street. He knows many busi-
ness people who put up with persons who take advantage of legislation
favoring special categories. He believes the intent is good regarding
the special category tenant but the implementation of this process
will not be recognized. "0ne only has to look at Social Security,
Welfare, unemployment, and other social programs to see what is now
recognized as a special category and realize these groups now include
many who were never intended to be included when the laws were
originated."
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He stated that nowhere in this ordinance is any mention of property
owners' rights or protecti9n of those rights. H~ stated that on page
19, Section B, the developer must give a notice. He stated that it
has taken 49 pages to set forth this law and additional administrative
rules are yet to be written. He requests that the owners be given
this information in plain and simple language as is required of the
developers so that they might pass it on to the tenant. Before the
moratorium took effect, he had sent a registered letter to the City,
the County, and the State requesting that he be sent the necessary
information to convert his property to condominiums. His only reply
from the City was "see your lawyer." He said it is his understanding
that City staff, after researching the ordinance, recommended that it
was unnecessary and will probably have a detrimental impact on Eugene's
housing. He also understands that HUD is opposed to this type of law
because it discourages private investment and real estate development
in the community. He understands that outside consultants have
testified that this law was unnecessary. He asked who recommended the
ordinance, wondering if it was undue concern over the two high-rise
conversions from which, when challenged in court, the City backed down
because of the potential expensive litigation. He asked whether they
feel there will not be challenges to this law. He stated that he
thinks the ultimate challenge may come in a few years by a potential
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condominium owner who cannot find one in his price range because the
new ones are too expensive and none are being converted to allow a
lower price choice. He stated he truly believes this law will increase
the cost of housing to all of the citizens--renters and owners alike-- ~
and that it is bad business. ~
Boyd Iverson, 2399 West 22nd Avenue, stated that his concerns had been
covered by previous speakers, but the decision to give more time is
needed in order to think through the ordinance.
Wilma Downie, 1630 Patterson, Chairperson of the West University
Neighbors, stated the proposed ordinance does not address the need of
providing and maintaining low-income housing in the form of coopera-
tives. Cooperatives should be deleted from this proposed ordinance.
She supports the Neighborhood Housing Resource Center position.
Robert Linz, 1321 Pai~e Avenue, member of the Joint Housing Committee,
was partially responslble for the letter containing the objections of
the Joint Housing Committee regarding the proposed ordinance. Their
basic concern was that the ordinance might retard the development of
new housing. The Joint Housing Committee feels that the ultimate
payment of the $SOO-per-unit tax will be by the buyer of the unit.
Most expenses incurred are ultimately passed on to consumers, in the
form of the price. The people they hope to help will be the ones to
whom the tax will be passed along. The Joint Housing Committee is
charged with helping the City decide what kind of housing can be
available to various members of the community and to see that every-
thing that the City does through the City Council actions adds to the
enhancement of the availability of housing. Apartment dwellers or ~
others who would like to buy a converted apartment unit will probably ,.,
be buying the lowest priced housing unit available in the city of
Eugene, and to tax those individuals $500 to buy that unit seems to be
counterproductive, according to the Joint Housing Committee. To take
the money from the individual and give it to the Joint Housing Committee
to build low-income housing seems to be a direct contradiction of
purpose. He is opposed to the tax as an individual and as a represen-
tative of the Joint Housing Committee.
James McCoy, 341 Van Buren, stated he works with the Neighborhood
Economic Development Corporation in the Whiteaker Neighborhood
and opposes low-income cooperatives being included in this ordinance.
There has not been enough time spent to understand how cooperatives
would be affected. He would like more time to research this to see
what effect there will be and urged cooperatives being excluded.
Their particular cooperative would have to request exemptions from the
tax.
There being no further testimony, public hearing was closed.
Mayor Keller stated that noon, June 13, would be the deadline for
acceptance of written testimony.
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Mr. Lieuallen stated he would like a staff response on Councilor
Delay's proposal and on cooperatives. Mr. Obie stated agreement with
this and said he would like additional information on the tax issue.
Ms. Miller stated she would like to see work done on the preparation
of language for Delay's proposal and asked if Section 11 on page 45
(permit waivers) would pose a significant problem.
Ms. Smith stated she felt the task force should get together one more
time to clarify points raised at this meeting. Mr. Delay stated he
would like an opportunity to have this brought back at the June 11
council meeting. Consensus was to further discuss at the June 11
council meeting: 1) the Delay proposal; 2) the question of coopera-
tive inclusion; and 3) the taxation issue, in order to provide staff
direction in these areas. Mayor Keller responded that it could be the
first item.
D.
Proposed Euthanasia Ordinance--Mr. Henry stated this is the ordinance
requested by Councilor Delay which conforms with the initiative
petition passed earlier. It is not the same as the County ordinance
nor the ordinance under study and development by Tri-Agency. He
introduced Stan Long~ City Attorney's office, to provide background
informat ion.
Mr. Long stated that in May 1978 the County initiative measure regu-
lating the killing of dogs and cats in shelters was passed. He noted
that councilors received a copy of this as well as a copy of the Lane
County Code and a copy of the ordinance requested by the council. The
County measures do not automatically apply within the city of Eugene
since it is a home rule city. This ordinance would limit the killing
of dogs and cats in pounds and shelters within Eugene to injections of
pentobarbital by 1 icensedveteri nari ans and animal techn ici ans.
Veterinarians in private practice would be limited to using injection
methods but it does not specify the drug that would be used. This
does not limit what owners can do with dogs and cats, nor what can be
done in defense of property or person.
Public hearing was opened.
Speaking in_favor:
Jeffrey Sherman~ 3315 West 13th, stated he was one of the original
sponsors of the 1978 ballot measure. The limits would be injection of
sodium pentobarbital by licensed and trained personnel. Opposition to
this measure came from Tri-Agency, Lane Humane Society, and the Lane
County Veterinarian Society. This measure was to limit use of the
decompression chamber. After the initiative measure was passed by the
voters the Lane County Commissioners changed po~tions of the ordinance
in September 1978, since Greenhill Animal Shelter and the Tri-Agency
Board objected to the wording regarding "certified" personnel.
6/9/80--15
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They indicated practical difficulties in implementing this portion.
He feels a serious error was made in not imposing this original
ordinance on Greenhill. He stated that Dr. Labovich had stated that
animal technicians receive extensive training, and availability is not
a problem since there are 35 accredited schools in the United States
which have animal technician programs. Tri-Agency would require two
trained technicians. The salary ranges for these positions is lower
than that presently for kennel personnel. He asked that the councilors
adopt the origina1 measure. He noted that the Greenpeace organization
supports this.
Diane Suko, 870 Snell, stated she was shocked to find out that the
ordinance passed two years ago has never been enforced. This ordi-
nance was to assure use of animal technicians. On May 12, at a
meeting of the policy committee, they were told by the management team
it was impossible to do this. She stated that in California, the
State Legislature has required licensed animal technicians. She feels
that right now is the best time to resolve this issue since there are
two open positions. .
Speaking against the ordinance:
Mark Pangborn, 5050 Fox Hollow, Chairman of the Tri-Agency Management
Team, supports injection euthanasia. His concerns are with the
restriction as to who can perform the procedure. The policy board had
instructed the management team to develop an ordinance that would
apply to all three jurisdictions. He stated there are only 62 animal
technicians in the state of Oregon. He talked with the Director of
Training at Portland State University which is an Oregon institution ~
that licenses animal technicians who felt there would not be enough ~
licensed technicians to handle the need and that these individuals
probably would not be interested in holding jobs that only dealt in
disposal of animals. Mr. Pangborn noted that their budget does not
include the cost of a veterinarian to administer or observe injection
euthanasia on a daily basis. He feels this is restrictive language.
He feels the two major criteria for successful injection euthanasia
are: 1) sensitivity to the animal and knowledge of animal behavior;
and 2) manual dexterity. He does not feel the language regarding
veterinarians and/or licensed animal technicians is necessary.
.
Betsy Williams, 5065 Whiteaker, Director of Tri-Agency, stated she is
opposed to the language restricting the injection euthanasia only to
veterinarians or licensed animal technicians as this would be cost-
prohibitive for Tri-Agency. She does not feel this would be feasible.
They have positions open at Tri-Agency but have not received responses
from any licensed animal technicians. They would need staff available
24 hours a day, seven days a week. The main concern is for humane
treatment and humane euthanas i a is. occurri ng by -trai ned personnel
now at Tri-Agency.
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The following people desired to testify against the proposed ordinance
but, due to the time factor, their testimony was not heard: Carmen
Kunkle, 700 Terry Street; Vera JatendOrf; 29127 Gimple Hill Road;
Arlone J. Newell, 29107 Gimple Hi 11 Road; Marie Marcotto, Route 2,
Box 330E, Corvallis; Kathleen flood, 3117 ferry Street; Barbara Clark,
28877 S~encer Creek Road; MarSie Van Gundy, 2727 Gateway, #39,
Springfleld; Jon Spangler, 21 9 Elysium; Rosemary Christensen, 450
East 50th Avenue; Tom Danelski, Emerald Valley Vet Clinic; Charles
Rosecrans, PO Box 877, Cottage Grove; Martha DeWees, 5303 Main Street,
S~ringfield; Devon Trottier, 1399 franklin Boulevard; and Joan Walker,
2 97 Viewmont.
There being no further time allotted for testimony, public hearing was
closed.
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Mr. L;euallen asked if the City not enacting the ordinance was a
mistake. Mr. Long responded that it was, but County police power
measures do not apply within home rule cities.
Mr. Lieuallen asked if it would be necessary to have a veterinarian on
the premises to supervise the animal technicians. Dr. Tom Oanelski
stated that the vet must be on the premises according to State law.
Mr. Obie asked how long it takes to become a licensed trained animal
technician. Or. Oanelski responded that a certified technician must
graduate from two years of course-related training and pass a State
Board examination, or practice under a veterinarian for four years and
then pass the State Board exam.
Mr. Obie asked about the time factor and if this needs to have
an emergency clause. Mr. Delay stated that that clause could be
omitted. Mr. Obie noted he would like to see at least 30 days to
enact this ordinance.
Ms. Smith asked in regard to Mr. Pangborn's comment about the three
jurisdictions having the same ordinance if that was a necessity.
Mr. Long responded that he did not feel that Mr. Pangborn had said it
was a necessity but that it would be preferable. Mr. Henry noted it
might be better to have a 60-day rather than a 30-day effective date
in order to recruit the necessary people. This ordinance would not
be effective in Lane County and they would operate under a different
ordinance at Greenhill.
Mayor Keller asked why there were fewer restrictions on private
veterinarians. Mr. Delay responded that it was to allow for more
flexibility in the private sector.
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CB 2140--An ordinance concerning animal control, amending Section
4.355 of the Eugene Code~ 1971; adding Section 4.450 to that
code; with a 60-day effective date.
Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Obie, that the bill be read the
second time by council bill number only, with unanimous consent of
the council.
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Ms. Miller stated she feels there needs to be strong rationale for
changing an initiative ordinance but feels that people with proper
training and supervision can probably handle the situation just as
well. There is an obligation to the voters, however~ to abide by
their decision.
Mr. Delay stated he feels it should be made quite clear that no "foot
dragging" is expected from staff on this issue. There is an obliga-
tion for Tri-Agency management to do everything they can to recruit
trained animal technicians. He wants the schools that will have
graduating classes of animal technicians to be notified that there
are positions available. He does not feel that recruitment would be a
problem and thinks it could be done in 30 days~ although he does not
want to quibble over 30 versus 60 days.
Mr. Lieuallen asked if the Personnel Department would be doing the
recruitment. Ms. Williams responded that Tri-Agency does their own
recruiting. Mr. Lieuallen noted he would like a very strong commit-
ment that policy direction will be carried out regardless of staff
feelings. He felt there would be more ability with the City Personnel
Department but since they do their own recruitment at Tri-Agency he 4It
wants to make certain that the policy direction will be carried out.
Mayor Keller noted that Tri-Agency is a cooperative effort and feels
this should go through Springfield and Lane County for review. He
indicated that just because Tri-Agency is located within Eugene does
not give the City the right to force this on the other jurisdictions.
The priority is animal control. Mr. Delay responded that there was an
overwhelming vote by voters of the county that this be passed. Ms.
Smith stated the policy board would be meeting again within the week
and wondered if they would be looking at this ordinance.
Mr. Delay noted the policy board had taken action on two items at
previous meetings: 1) They had unanimously adopted Commissioner
Rust's proposal to hire an animal technician for a kennel supervisor
opening; and 2) through attrition, having all personnel become animal
technicians. He stated he does not accept the position of the manage-
ment team that they can give a better alternative than what was passed
by the voters and the testimony tonight has not changed his mind.
.
6/9/80--18
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Mr. Obie asked if the ballot measure specifically said "State licensed
animal technician.1I Mr. Long responded that in May 1978, Lane County
measure refers to ORS 6868350 which refers to the licensing of animal
technicians. Mr. Obie stated if that is what people want then that is
the way that it should be. Mayor Keller noted that perhaps within the
60 days they could persuade Springfield and Lane County to adopt a
similar position. Mr. Delay stated he felt there was a good chance
this could happen. This could be made uniform but it is not necessary.
Roll call vote; motion carried unanimously.
Council Bill 2140 was read the second time by council bill number only.
Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, that the bill be
approved and given final passage; all councilors present voting
aye, the bill was declared passed and numbered 18640.
III. ORDINANCES FOR FIRST READING
A. Levy Assessments and Referral to Hearings Panel ,June 16, 1980--
CB 2141--An ordinance levying assessments for paving, sanitary sewer,
storm sewer, and pedestrian way within Clarey Plat First Addition
(78-127)
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Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, that the bill be read
for the first time June 9, 1980, and referred to the Hearings
Panel for heari ng June 16, 1980, with panel recorcmendati ons to be
brought back for council consideration June 23, 1980. Roll call
vote; motion carried unanimously.
CB 2142--An ordinance levying assessments for paving, sanitary sewer ,and
storm sewer within and adjacent to Canyon View Estates Subdivision
(79-07)
Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, that the bill be read
for the first time June 9, 1980, and referred to the Hearings
Panel for hearing June 16, 1980, with panel recommendations to be
brought back for council consideration June 23, 1980. Roll call
vote; motion carried unanimously.
CB 2143--An ordinance levying assessments for paving, sanitary sewer, and
sidewalk on Fox Hollow Road from 43rd Avenue to Donald Street
(79-28 )
Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, that the bill be read
for the first time June 9, 1980, and referred to the Hearings
Panel for hearing June 16, 1980, with panel recommendations to be
brought back for council consideration June 23, 1980. Roll call
vote; motion carried unanimously.
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6/9/80--19
CB 2144--An ordinance levying assessments for paving, sanitary sewer,
storm sewer, and pedestrian way within Judkins Heights Sub-
division; and sanitary sewer to serve the area within 160
feet of the east, north, and west boundaries (79-29) 4It
Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, that the bill be read
for the first time June 9, 1980, and referred to the Hearings
Panel for hearing June 16, 1980, with panel recommendations to be
brought back for council consideration June 23, 1980. Roll call
vote; motion carried unanimously.
CB 2145--Levying assessments for paving, sanitary sewer, and storm sewer
to serve Flatbush First Addition (79-34)
Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, that the bill be read
for the first time June 9, 1980, and referred to the Hearings
Panel for hearing June 16, 1980, with panel recommendations to be
brought back for council consideration June 23, 1980. Roll call
vote; motion carried unanimously.
CB 2146--An ordinance levying assessments for paving and sanitary sewer on
Lassen Street from Haig Street to Roosevelt Boulevard (79-35)
Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, that the bill be read
for the first time June 9, 1980, and referred to the Hearings
Panel for hearing June 16, 1980, with panel recommendations to be
brought back for council consideration June 23, 1980. Roll call
vote; motion carried unanimously.
CB 2147--An ordinance levying.assessments for paving, storm sewer, and
sidewalk on 25th Avenue, from 450 feet east of Cleveland Street
to 800 feet east of Cleveland Street (79-38) -
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Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, that the bill be read
for the first time June 9, 1980, and referred to the Hearings
Panel for hearing June 16, 1980, with panel recommendations to be
brought back for council consideration June 23, 1980. Roll call
vote; motion carried unanimously.
CB 2148--Levying assessments for storm sewer approximately 120 feet north
of Vernon Way from Calvin Street to approximately 120 feet west
of President Street (79-44)
Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, that the bill be read
for the first time June 9, 1980, and referred to the Hearings
Panel for hearing June 16, 1980, with panel recommendations to be
brought back for council consideration June 23, 1980. Roll call
vote; motion carried unanimously.
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6/9/80--20
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CB2l49 .-An ordinance levying assessments for sanitary sewer on Arcadia
Street from 400 feet north of Harlow Road to 1,500 feet north of
Harlow Road (79-53)
Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, that the bill be read
for the first time June 9, 1980, and referred to the Hearings
Panel for hearing June 16, 1980, with panel recommendations to be
brought back for council consideration June 23, 1980. Roll call
vote; motion carried unanimously.
The following items were held over: approval of Hearings Panel minutes of
June 2, 1980; levying of assessments for council bills 2090, 2126-2133; consid-
eration of findings and recommendations on apeals from determinations of the
Zoning Board of Appeals heard by Hearings Panel on April 21, 1980; and payment
of bills, claims, progress payments for period May 27, 1980, through June 9,
1980.
Meeting was adjourned to June 11.
Respectfully submitted,
~~
Charles T. Henr~
City Manager
(Recorded by Lynda Nelson)
LN:so/CM26bl
6/9/80--21