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M I NUT E S
-- Eugene City Council
City Council Chamber
November 5, 1980
11: 30 a.m.
COUNCILORS PRESENT: Betty Smith, Scott Lieuallen, Brian Obie, Eric Haws, D. W.
Hamel, Gretchen Miller, and Emily Schue. Councilor Jack
Delay was absent.
Adjourned meeting of the City Council of the City of Eugene, Oregon, was called
to order by His Honor Mayor Gus Keller.
I. ITEMS FROM MAYOR AND COUNCIL, APPOINTMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS, AGENDA ADJUSTMENTS
A. Election Results
Mayor Keller congratulated Scott Lieuallen, newly elected Lane County Commissioner,
and expressed thanks to the voters for defeating Ballot Measure 6. Ms. Schue and
Mr. Hamel also congratulated Mr. Lieuallen.
B. Tri-Agency Policy Board
- Mayor Keller had asked for volunteers to serve on this board. Since there were
none, he volunteered to serve on the board and noted that it is his intent
to appoint someone by the end of the year.
C. Sani-pac Refund
Ms. Miller stated that Sani-pac has assured a refund to its customers. She finds
this distressing after it was stated by the Garbage Board that the charges were
appropr i ate.
Mr. Obie arrived at the meeting.
Mr. Henry stated that Sani-pac had indicated that they would refund overcharges
to their customers since their compaction rate is better than the average rate
ca lcul ated . The 3.5-1 ratio they use is actually higher than that because they
dump partial loads.
Mr. Haws arrived at the meeting.
D. Oakway/Spy Glass Bike Path
Ms. Smith indicated that a letter and petition have been received regarding
the proposed bike path. She requested that a staff report be brought back. Mr.
Henry indicated that this item would be referred to the Bicycle Committee. This
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MINUTES--Eugene City Council November 5, 1980 Page 1
is very controversial. Supporters have indicated they would provide $20,000 to e
help construct this path. Property owners are against the project. The Master
, . Any change in the route
Bikeways Plan includes the route that is objected to.
would need to be considered by the PlanninQ Commission. If the Bicycle Committee
recommends the present route, the question of land acquisition will come before
the cbuncil and they could make a decision at that time.
M~. Lieuallen asked if this route is in the Master Plan. Mr. Henry responded
that it is and that it is partly paved already. Mr. Lieuallen asked if this is
part of the original plan or if it was an amendment. Mr. Henry indicated that
this was included when the Spy Glass Subdivision was developed. Jim Croteau,
Planning, stated that when one phase of the Oakway development went in, to the
west of Greenview Street, a portion of the bike path was secured. Mr. Hamel
asked how many councilors are in favor of this path. He asked if the route now
being considered is just a short cut. He stated that this would go by new
houses. He asked about the original route that had been considered. Mr. Henry
stated that this item would be referred to the Bicycle Committee.
E. Budget Committee Appointment
Mr. Haws stated that Jim Ellison, representative to the Budget Commmittee from
Ward 6, was appointed to the Budget Committee to fill in the unexpired balance
of a three-year term which will expire at the end of this calendar year.
He has indicated he is willing to continue serving on this committee for one
more year to complete a single three-year term. Mr. Haws stated that Mr.
Ellison has done an excellent job and would recommend that the council reappoint
him to the Budget Committee. e
Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, to reappoint Jim
Ellison to the Budget Committee. Roll call vote; motion
carried unanimously.
F. Council Meeting--November 10, 1980
Mr. Obie expressed concern at having both the Performing Arts Policy Statement
and user fees and the smoking ordinance on the same agenda. He feels there may
not be enough r.oom for everyone in the Council Chamber and suggested that
perhaps either the location or the agenda could be changed.
Mr. Henry stated that he also has been concerned and some items have been
removed from the agenda. However, very few meetings will be held in November,
and only one evening meeting will be held. He is more concerned about the
time requirements than about the number of people. The Performing Arts Center
matter is scheduled first, leavinq time for the smoking ordinance, so perhaps
the first half of the smoking ordinance testimony could be finished by 9:15, and
the remainder by 10 p.m. Mr. Obie suggested that perhaps the Performing Arts
Center matter could be scheduled first and the smoking ordinance scheduled at
8:30. Mayor Keller agrees that there is a problem and asked if either item
could be moved to a Wednesday meeting. Mr. Henry indicated that is up to the
council, but that staff felt it could not be done. He would suggest that the
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e first 45 minutes be reserved for testimony on the Performing Arts Center, and
that the hearing be continued at a later Wednesday meeting. Mayor Keller
suggested putting siqns on the doors so that people would know which item was
scheduled at what time. He also requested that staff be present to help allay
any confusion.
Mr. Henry agreed to place the signs. Ms. Schue stated that it would be helpful
for the meetinq announcement in the Eugene Register-Guard to contain this
informat ion. Mayor Keller added that postponing these items could cause problems
1 ater. The public will be notified of the estimated times, and he requested
that one staff person be available at each door. Mr. obie added that council
would probably not have time to make decisions following the testimony.
G. Meetings
Mr. Henry noted the following meetinQs: Performing Arts Commission, 7:30 p.m.,
November 5, in the McNutt Room; Civic Center Commission, 7:30 p.m., November 6,
Municipal Courtroom 1; City Council Executive Session, 7 to 7:30 p.m., November 10,
in the McNutt Room.
H. Upcoming City Council Meeting Schedule
Mr. Henry stated that a tentative council meeting schedule has been prepared.
The City Council meetings for December will be held on December 3, 8, 10, 17,
and 22. In January 1981, the first Monday meeting of each month will begin with
a 5-7:15 p.m. work'and dinner session, followed by the regular council meeting
e at 7: 30 . The first meeting, January 12, will include a reception for retirees,
as well as the State of the City Address. The other council meetings in January
will be held January 14, 21, 26, and 28.
II. ROUTINE ITEMS FOR COUNCIL APPROVAL
A. Approval of Council Minutes of October 15, 1980
Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, to approve council
minutes of October 15, 1980. Roll call vote; motion carried
unanimously.
B. Council-Initiated Improvement Project (memo, maps distributed)
Res. No. 3439--A resolution authorizinq sanitary sewer construction to
serve Willakenzie Island annexation areas numbers I, 7, and
8 (A/Z 78-11) located qenerally adjacent to the followinq
streets: Area No.1 includes property along Tulip and
Balboa streets, Green Acres Road, and Holly Avenue; Area
No.7 includes property alonq Hickory Avenue, Sisters View,
Mahlon Avenue, Westward Ho Avenue, Oxbow Way, Garden Way,
Conestoqa Way, Honeysuckle Street, and Van Duyn Street; Area
No.8 includes the Bar M Subdivision and property along
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Willakenzie Road, Best Lane, Van Avenue, Bogart Lane, e
Bailey Lane, Randall Street, and Arcadia Street (1813,
1816, 1776, 1814~ 1815).
Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, to adopt the
resolution. Roll call vote; motion carried unanimously.
III. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Easement Vacation for Bernard Ruzika (EV 80-3) (map distributed)
Mr. Henry stated that this easement vacation request was approved by the Plan-
ning Commission with a 4:0 vote on August 11, 1980; the easement is located
north of Crescent Avenue between Norkenzie Road and Tulip Street. This would
vacate the west three feet of a seven-foot-wide public utility easement. He
introduced Jim Croteau, Planning, to provide additional information.
Mr. Croteau stated that the applicant is requesting the partial vacation of
three feet since a building is under construction which infringes on the
easement. The vacation request was reviewed by the utility and Public Works,
and there is no need to keep the extra three feet of the public utility easement.
In reqard to a question brought up at the PlanninQ Commission meeting, the
house does not have the traditional back yard area due to the position of the
living area.
Public hearing was opened; there beinQ no testimony, public hearing was closed. e
CB 2209--An ordinance authorizing the vacation of the west three feet of a
seven-foot-wide public utility easement located north of Crescent
Avenue between Norkenzie Road and Tulip Street.
Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, that the bill be read
the second time by council bill number only, with unanimous
consent of the council, and that enactment be considered at this
time. Roll call vote; motion carried unanimously.
Council bill 2209 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. Roll call vote; all councilors
present voting aye, the bill was declared passed and numbered
18716.
B. Request for Historic Landmark Desiqnation for Fairmount Presbyterian
Church (Maude Kerns Art Center) Located at the Southeast Corner of
15th Avenue and Villard Street, 1910 East 15th Avenue (H 80-4)
(map and background information distributed)
Mr. Henry stated that this application for historic landmark designation was
reviewed by the Historic Review Board and approval was unanimously recommended
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MINUTES--Eugene City Council November 5, 1980 Paqe 4
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e on September 25, 1980. It is also recommended by staff. He introduced Judy
Rees, HCC, to provide additional information.
Ms. Rees stated that the Historic Review Board recommended this designation
based on six criteria from the City Code. This designation would not affect
current zoning or sign regulation. The applicant is here to answer questions if
necessary.
No ex parte contacts or conflicts of interest were noted. Staff notes and
minutes were entered into the record.
Public hearing was opened; there being no testimony, public hearing was closed.
CB 2210--An ordinance designating the Fairmount Presbyterian Church a
historic landmark within the city of Eugene, Oreqon.
Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, that findings suppor-
ting the historic designation as set forth in the Historic Review
Board staff notes and minutes of September 25, 1980, be adopted by
reference thereto; that the bill be read the second time by coun-
cil bill number only, with unanimous consent of the council; and
that enactment be considered at this time. Roll call vote; motion
carried unanimously.
Council Bill 2210 was read the second time by council bill number only.
e Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, that the bill be
approved and given final passage. Roll call vote; all councilors
present votinq aye, the bill was declared passed and numbered
18717.
C. Proposed Amendments to Historic Landmark Ordinance (memo and addi-
tional information distributed)
Mr. Henry stated that this involves a major change in landmark funding. These
amendments change the Financial Assistance Grant Program for historic landmarks
to a low-interest revolving fund loan, and allow long-term lessees of historic
landmarks to be eligible for revolvinq fund loans.
Extensive guidelines are part of this process. He introduced Judy Rees, HCC, to
explain the proposed revisions and changes in guidelines.
Ms. Rees stated that these proposals would change the program from an outright
grant to a low-interest loan. This would allow the board to take the limited
available funding and recycle the monies and/or leveraqe it with banking institu-
tions. This is a similar process to what is now beinq done with HCC rehabilita-
tion funds. The proposed changes will allow the two restoration programs,
community development fundinq and that of the City's financial assistance, to be
administratively combined. The guidelines to administer the program incorporate
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MINUTES--Eugene City Council November 5, 1980 Page 5
the original guidelines for financial assistance with some new portions reqardinq .
loan payback and the Secretary of the Interior Standards for Restoration which
are Federally approved quidelines. The board has been using the Federal quide-
lines since 1978 to review restoration work. Eligibility requirements would
remain the same. This would chanqe the proqram from a qrant proqram to a loan
program.
Public hearinq was opened; there being no testimony, public hearing was closed.
CB 2211--An ordinance concerninq historic landmarks; amending sections of
the Eugene Code, 1971; and declaring an emergency.
Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, that the bill be read
the second time by council bill number only, with unanimous
consent of the council, and that enactment be considered at this
time. Roll call vote; motion carried unanimously.
Council Bill 2211 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 passaqe. Roll call vote; all councilors
present voting aye, the bill was declared passed and numbered
18718.
Res. No. 3440--A resolution repealing Resolution No. 2520 and establishinq
guidelines for reviewing restoration revolving fund loan -
applications.
Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, to adopt the
resolution. Roll call vote; motion carried unanimously.
D. New Liquor License Outlet--7-Eleven Food Store (package store license);
located at N.E.C. Bailey Hill Road and Westleigh; applicant: John
Reiche, Assistant Secretary, The Southland Corporation
Mr. Henry stated that staff recommends approval. The Churchill Neighborhood
Association objects, although no letter has been received from them.
Public hearing was opened.
Jonathan Bates, 3605 Kevington, president of the Churchill Neiqhborhood Asso-
ciation, stated that they object to the liquor license as well as the placement
of a 7-Eleven store at that location. This property is located directly across
from the Valley West shopping center and would offer the same services, which
would be duplication. It would also be directly across from Churchill High
School. Valley West has had problems with loiterinq and harassment, as well as
allegations of criminal activity. The neighborhood group thinks the 7-Eleven
store is unnecessary and could aggravate present crime problems. If the liquor
license is granted, they will object during the planning process and will
testify there also during the site review procedures.
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MINUTES--Eugene City Council November 5, 1980 Paqe 6
. Dave Husk, 51 West 31st Avenue, stated that he is a realtor representing the
Southland Corporation and would answer any questions. He spoke with Churchill
Principal Newland as well as both the Churchill administrative and 4-J staffs
who saw no problems. This area has intense population growth and this facility
would serve a public need. and give alternatives to the residents. This ownership
would be with a local franchise owner.
There being no further testimony, public hearinq was closed.
Mr. Obie stated that Mr. Husk probably should have talked with parents rather
than with the administrators, because the parents do have objections. He looked
at the property as well as at the property occupied by McKay's. There are bad
traffic problems there already which will become worse. Also, there is a
7-Eleven store at 18th and City View which provides the s.ame services. It is
the council's job to make recommendations to OLCC, and it is up to OLCC to
determine if it will be approved. He will vote no because the neighborhood
association has said they would prefer no additional liquor outlets and no
7-Eleven store. He feels it would be a plus if 7-Eleven decided not to locate
there. This could cause more accessibility problems and it is also adjacent to
a preschool and the high school, as well as a retirement center.
Ms. Smith asked for clarification on the criteria for recommendinq approval
or denial. Tim Sercombe, City Attorney, stated that if there is written criteria,
it would be something that he would need to bring back. Ms. Smith stated that
she is sympathetic to the neighborhood association, but would like to have
something upon which to base a decision. Mr. Henry stated that generally,
e established criteria relate to the consumptions of liquor, not to package store
outlets. Mr. Husk stated that in other cities in Oregon, county or city approval
is based upon zoning, fire, and other policies, not as to whether they feel a
I particular building should be in a particular place or not. He has checked with
each City department. Additionally, this will not be the standard 7-Eleven
building. Mr. Bates noted that he had spoken with OLCC and stated that during
their hearing process, they will take the council's recommendation under advise-
ment. The Planning staff shares the concern for this location.
Mr. Obie stated that the council does need a basis for making a recommendation.
The products are available at another very close location and the site is across
the street from a high school.
Mr. Obie moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, to forward to OLCC with
recommendation for denial.
Ms. Schue asked whether the public should not have two choices. Mr. Obie
indicated that liquor products are available easily and adding another outlet
would create a more difficult situation than currently exists because of traffic
movement so close to the high school. Mr. Hamel stated that similar instances
have come before the council previously. The council is only sending a recommen-
dation to OLCC who will make the decision. He will vote against the motion.
Mayor Keller stated that he is not sure the reasons outlined are a good basis
for denial. He noted that a gas station was approved as a package store in the
recent past. Traffic may be a problem but Hilyard Street is as bad. He knows
e that one obligation of the council is to not eliminate competition and expressed
surprise at Mr. Obie's position.
MINUTES--Eugene City Council November 5, 1980 P aqe 7
Ms. Miller stated that she would prefer that the council interfere as little as .
possible with private enterprise. However, neighborhood groups are very impor-
tant to the City and they must be taken seriously. On this basis, she feels
this is a bad idea. She feels the recommendation should be made accordingly.
Mr. Haws stated that 7-Eleven stores do not cause the problems. If there are
other problems, perhaps the entire situation should be addressed. If one store
is allowed in the area, others should be also. Perhaps the zoning is wrong but
that should be addressed in a different manner. Fairness must be stressed.
Ms. Smith asked if there is criteria that can be brought back. Mr. Henry said
that he did not feel that will be the case. Mr. Obie stated that the neighbor-
hood does not want this and the council IS decision should reflect their wish.
Roll call vote; the motion was defeated 4:3 with councilors Haws,
Smith, Hamel, and Schue voting no.
Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, to forward to OLCC
with recommendation for approval, subject to conditions, if any.
Roll call vote; motion carried 4:3 with Councilors Obie, Lieuallen,
and Miller voting no.
Mr. Obie stated that he would like OLCC to know that a serious problem exists
and that the neighborhood is against this. Mr. Hamel stated that he appreciates
the neighborhood's input but feels they should pursue other avenues, such as
going to OLCC and the Planning Department.
IV. METROPOLITAN WASTEWATER MANAGEMENT COMMISSION SEWER USER CHARGES e
(memo distributed) Mr. Henry stated that the council had previously approved a $5 total charge(single-family
for regional, local, and capital outlay fees. On November 3, 1980, the Spring-
field City Council adopted a total charge of $4.25 for a single-family residence
and $3.55 for a multi-family dwelling. There should be uniformity throughout
the area in the charges for these services.
CB 2208--An ordinance reducing regional sewer user rates and charges by
amending Section 7.020 of the Eugene Code, 1971, as set forth in
Section 3 of Ordinance No. 18708; and declaring an emergency.
In responding to Ms. Smithls request for clarification, Mr. Henry stated that
this amends the original council bill.
Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, that the bill be read
the second time by council bill number only, with unanimous
consent of the council, and that enactment be considered at this
time. Roll call vote; motion carried unanimously.
Council Bill 2208 was read the second time by council bill number only.
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MINUTES--Eugene City Council November 5, 1980 Page 8
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e Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, that the bill be
approved and ~iven final passage. Roll call vote; all councilors
present voting aye. The bill was declared passed and numbered
18719.
V. ORDINANCE CONCERNING VEHICLES IN THE MALL (memo distributed)
Mr. Henry stated that currently, permits must be acquired throu~h both the
Public Works Department and Parks & Recreation Department. This council bill
would give total authority to the Parks & Recreation Department and would
streamline the process.
CB 2206--An ordinance concerninq vehicles in the mall; amending Section
5.565, 5.570, 5.575, and 5.580 of the Eugene Code, 1971; and
declaring an emergency.
Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, that the bill be read
the second time by council bill number only, with unanimous
consent of the council, and that enactment be considered at this
time. Roll call vote; motion carried unanimously.
Ms. Smith commended staff for acting so quickly on this item.
Council Bill 2206 was read the second time by council bill number only.
e Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, that the bill be
approved and given final passage. Roll call vote; all councilors
present vot i n9 aye. The bill was declared passed and numbered
18720.
VI. CONSIDERATION OF BYLAWS OF THE PERFORMING ARTS COMMISSION
(memo and resolution distributed)
Mr. Henry stated that this resolution would approve procedural rules and internal
organization of the Eugene Performing Arts Commission. Most of this is the same
as the ordinance that created the commission but Articles 5 and 6 include new
procedures. He introduced Dick Reynolds, Director of the Performing Arts
Center, to provide additional information. Mr. Henry noted that the council
could act on the bylaws today but wait to act on the policy statements and user
rates.
Mr. Reynolds stated that the bylaws incorporate the wording of the enablinQ
ordinance. There is a minor addition in Article 4 regarding the election of
officers with terms of office to beqin June 1. Article 5--Meetings--Section 4
is unique to the bylaws in regard to notice of meetings. Article 6 relates to
standing and special committees and the meeting notice in this article is the
~estatment of the City policy. There also are other new procedures not in the
ordinance.
~7_ Res. No. 3441--A resolution approving the rules of procedure and internal
organization of the Eugene Performing Arts Commission.
MINUTES--Eugene City Council November 5, 1980 Page 9
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Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, to adopt the resolution. ~
Roll call vote; motion carried unanimously.
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VII. POLICY STATEMENTS AND USER RATES FOR PERFORMING ARTS CENTER--INITIAL
PRESENTATION (memo and additional information distributed)
Mr. Reynolds stated that the commission, in its second meeting, adopted a
mission statement to use as a guideline in developing future policies and its
budget with an emphasis on the desire to attract local, reqional, and national
artists. Also, these guidelines affect the public relations and marketing
programs. He thought that without a large defined market, success would be
endangered. The center shall produce or co-produce as many events as possible
to assure a variety of performances and good audience development. The artists
must feel comfortable that things are handled in a professional manner; for
example, acoustics must be good. They must meet the needs of the promoters, the
artists, and producers, as well as the public audience. They will strive toward
eventual financial independence by maximizing departmental revenue sources,
seeking special grants, using available room tax funds, and pursuing a prudent
fiscal plan to expend available funds. They will encourage other uses of their
facility when it is not being used by performing arts groups to eipand community
cultural opportunities and to accommodate appropriate public gatherings.
Mr. Reynolds stated that Policy 2 establishes certain services as the exclusive
responsibility of the management. These would include operation of the box
office, concession or novelty sales, providing house managers, stage manaqement,
technical support staff, ushers, ticket takers, and security. Their desire is e
to be able to assure that uniform quality of service upon which both users and
the public can rely. With trained employees, the public will be assured of a
responsive, cordial, and well-informed staff. Many of them will be part-time
employees. This training would payoff in the day-to-day operation as well as
when staff must respond to operational problems like emergency evacuation
procedures, medical emergencies, and other problems. However, this does not
preclude a limited use of volunteer ushers working under the supervision of
center staff. The Performing Arts Commission has requested that staff consider
these possibilities once the center has gone through its opening. Exclusive
operation of the box office, concessions, and novelty services are essential to
maximize generation of operating income.
Mr. Reynolds said, in regard to Policy 3, that the commission has deleqated some
supervisory responsibilities to the center Director. This would include estab-
lishing up to 16 house seats so that commission members and other people with
official City business can attend events in the facility.
Mr. Reynolds said that Policy 4 requires staff to develop a tenant agreement
form. This responds to the need to contractually protect the City from unneces-
sary liability exposure.
Mr. Reynolds stated that Policy 5 allows the Executive Director to respond to
market conditions when either of the halls are not in use. Fqr example, if the
ORT summer production on the Eugene Mall is threatened by a cancellation due
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MINUTES--Eugene City Council November 5, 1980 Page 10
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e to continual rain and concurrently the small hall is not in use, the Executive
Director would be able to lease that space to ORT under a negotiated user rate.
Another example might be the ability to attract an event that is unique but
otherwise might not be able to present itself to the community. This kind of
marketing flexibility can also be used as an illustration that the Eugene market
area is viable.
Policy 6 is the intent to recognize the desire to provide local performing
arts organizations with a reduced user rate for either hall, and to define what
is meant by the term "local.1I These rates are not transferrable.
Mr. Lieuallen asked in regard to Policy 5, which was discussed in terms of
providing the community with shows from the outside area they might not otherwise
see if this would apply to local groups as well. Mr. Reynolds responded
that out-of-pocket expenses would have to be covered such as staff, supervisors,
stage hands, etc. They cannot subsidize into the overhead but could apply to
both local and out-of-area productions. They would not like to schedule events
like this a long time in advance; rather, they would be more spur of the moment.
The center must look toward the best financial commitment. This must be balanced
with what a group would bring to the community.
Mr. Lieuallen asked if having house seats is a standard policy. Mr. Reynolds
responded that it is in many areas. However, they must be for 1I0fficial usell
and clearly and carefully monitored. It should be useful to the City's interest.
These could be used for a special group within the City or for other kinds of
e promotional activities. Also, commission members, council members, or City
staff, perhaps, could make use of these seats. This will help in the evaluation
and management of the center. They are not looking at providing seats for
peoples' husbands or wives, but rather for those who have business with the
City. They also could be used for guests of the City.
Mr. Lieuallen stated that Policy 2 has raised much concern with the local
performing arts communty. Mr. Reynolds stated that in his experience, a center
cannot survive on rental income alone and subsidy is not feasible beyond the
point that it is already occurring. They must look to additional sources of
income. They must be realistic and the public must be able to be familiar with
what they find when they get there. Quality of the service cannot depend on who
is providing the services. The show is the entire facility. Much of the
attitude toward the center will depend upon how the people are treated. Ms.
Smith noted that local performing artists recognize the importance of trained
personnel, but perhaps greater use of volunteers could be made and rates that
could be lowered for those groups. Mr. Reynolds agreed that that makes sense
with ushers and said that this has been discussed with the groups. When volunteer
ushers are trained, they will be able to perform that function with minimal
supervision from staff. However, staff will still need to be there to respond
to any unforeseen situations. He will be talking to the stage hands' union and
stage personnel wql be discussed in negotiations for that agreement. His hope
is to be able to use volunteers in the small hall with only one union employee
present. The sound system is to be operated only by someone trained in that
field. The lighting will be on a computerized console and training will be
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MINUTES--Eugene City Council November 5, 1980 Page 11
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required. It is his intent to work in that direction. Ms. Smith asked if e
volunteers or non-union stage hands in the small hall would reduce rental costs.
Mr. Reynolds stated that it would not reduce rental costs but it could reduce
reimbursables. The rent goes to pay for the overhead. Reducing reimbursables
would save on the cost of usinQ the facility.
Ms. Miller asked about the relative importance of revenue with quality and
consistency of service. Mr. Reynolds stated that they are eaually important.
The center must be fiscally sound and covered from potential liability. Ms.
Miller noted that many local groups feel they cannot use the facility at these
rates. She feels the negative effects of this would resound on the entire
process. These local events must keep occurring but without deficits which the
City cannot afford. This issue cannot be ignored. Mr. Reynolds stated that the
commission considered this issue during public hearings. Testimony has created
lower rates than the original proposed level. The result of this was the
formula for the small hall. They have been responsive in every way they could.
They are attempting to cover some of the costs. The small hall with projected
usage has an overhead of $600 per day. Local users using the facility for more
than one night would get it for $250 per day, which is a good reduction.
However, in order to make up t~at money, they must have other income besides
just rent. It will be a difficult transition for some to make, going from South
Eugene auditorium or the University of Oregon facilities but the income potential
is much greater and the environment will be ~uch better. More audiences will be
attracted and higher standards will be set. He feels that audiences will pay
more for good events and a comfortable atmosphere. Ms. Miller stated that
finances must be balanced, but she asked Mr. Reynolds if they think by charging e
more and trying harder, he feels local groups will make money. She feel s local
groups are saying they cannot afford these rates and that their patrons will not
pay them. Mr. Reynolds said if that is the case, and he has not heard that
it is, he has not been told by the groups of what a fair rate would be. The
center cannot give a better rate because they do not have surplus dollars.
Their money is coming from Room Tax funds or the Eugene Arts Foundation which
could also go directly to the groups. Their intent is to manage the facility as
inexpensively as possible and to hire groups that are enjoyable. A problem has
emerged in every city recently openinq a larqe center. There are some local
groups that have no intention of usina the center. Others will have to under-
stand that they may not need as lonq a run as they do in other facilities.
Staff wants them to succeed because the community needs them. Many Federal
grants require a strong local base for theatrical, dance, music, and symphonic
fundinq. Those who do plan to use the facility will take advantage of the time
to improve their organization and promote themselves to their audiences.
Ms. Schue asked for an estimate of what reimbursables might cost before the
meeting on November 10. Mr. Reynolds indicated that he would comply with her
request by sending a copy of the memo which was sent to the groups, as it
contained the maximum expenditures. Ms. Schue asked if this memo includes use
of the formula and cost savings with volunteers. Mr. Reynolds responded that it
does not but that it could be added.
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MINUTES--Euqene City Council November 5, 1980 Page 12
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Mr. Lieuallen asked that a breakdown of the budget be provided along with any
e possible reductions. Mr. Reynolds responded that the commission has not reviewed
or approved the budget so what the councilors receive would be a draft version.
Mayor Keller indicated that he has heard the sensitivity of the council to
provide local artists with every possible opportunity. This should be a guide-
1 ine for staff. Ms. Schue asked for reports on the dollar amount of Room Tax
subsidies which were available last year and how much Room Tax income might be
expected this year.
Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, to call a public
hearing for November 10, 1980, to consider policy statements and
user rates for the Performing Arts Center. Roll call vote; motion
carried unanimously.
VII I. PLANNING COMMISSION OPENINGS
Tally of votes by councilors to select interviewees for Planning Commission
openings was as follows:
Jack Del ay Brian Bauske Betty Smith Bob Barkman
Bob Barkman Roger Rutan
Martha Filer Darre 11 Smith
Steve Wood Brian Bauske
Roger Rutan Harold Hyman
e D. W. Hamel Bob Barkman Scott Lieuallen Bob Barkman
Roger Rutan Brian Bauske
Darrell Smith Steve Wood
Brian Bauske Darcy Marentette
H aro 1 d Hyman Martha Fil er
Gretchen Miller Brian Bauske Brian Obie Bob Barkman
Bob Barkman Roqer Rutan
Steve Wood Darrell Smith
Darcy Marentette Brian Bauske
Carl Host icka Harold Hyman
Emily Schue Bob Barkman Eric Haws Carl Hosticka
Brian Bauske Brian Bauske
Darcy Marentette Darcy Marentette
Roger Rut an Steve Wood
Steve Wood Vivian Frelix-Hart
Ms. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, to interview Brian
Bauske, Bob Barkman, Steven Wood, Roger Rutan, Darcy Marentette,
Harold Hyman, and Darrell Smith for openings on the Planning
Commission with the interview date to be set in .early December.
Roll call vote; motion carried unanimously.
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MINUTES--Eugene City Council November 5, 1980 Page 13
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IX. EXECUTIVE SESSION--CITY MANAGER SELECTION PROCESS
e The meeting was adjourned to the McNutt Room for the Executive Session.
Respectfully submitted,
~J-
Charles T. Hen /~
City Manager
(Recorded by Lynda Nelson)
LN: al/CM23bll
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MINUTES--Eugene City Council November 5, 1980 Page 14
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