HomeMy WebLinkAboutPacket 1-17-08Page z:\council packets\2008\r1-17-08\agenda 1-17-08 .doc 1/11/2008 5:10 PM
Page 1 of 3
NOTICE OF THE EXECUTIVE SESSION AND
REGULAR SESSION OF
THE FOUNTAIN HILLS TOWN COUNCIL
TIME: 5:00 P.M. - 6:30 P.M. - EXECUTIVE SESSION
(Executive Session will be held in 2nd floor Fountain Conference Room)
6:30 P.M. - REGULAR SESSION
WHEN: THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2008
WHERE: FOUNTAIN HILLS COUNCIL CHAMBERS
16705 EAST AVENUE OF THE FOUNTAINS, FOUNTAIN HILLS, AZ
PROCEDURE FOR ADDRESSING THE COUNCIL
Anyone wishing to speak before the Council must fill out a speaker’s card and submit it to the Town
Clerk prior to Council discussion of that Agenda item. Speaker Cards are located in the Council
Chamber Lobby and near the Clerk’s position on the dais. If there is a Public Hearing, please
submit the speaker card for that issue prior to the beginning of the Public Hearing and the
Consideration of said issue.
Speakers will be called in the order in which the speaker cards were received either by the Clerk or the
Mayor. At that time, speakers should stand and approach the podium. Speakers are asked to state
their name prior to commenting and to direct their comments to the Presiding Officer and not to
individual Council Members. Speakers’ statements should not be repetitive. In order to conduct an
orderly business meeting, the Presiding Officer shall keep control of the meeting and shall require
the speakers and audience to refrain from abusive or profane remarks, disruptive outbursts,
applause, protests or other conduct that disrupts or interferes with the orderly conduct of the
business of the meeting. Personal attacks on Council members, Town staff or members of the public
are not allowed. Please be respectful when making your comments. If you do not comply with these
rules, you will be asked to leave.
Individual speakers will be allowed three contiguous minutes to address the Council. Time limits may
be waived by (i) discretion of the Town Manager upon request by the speaker not less than 24 hours
prior to a Meeting, (ii) consensus of the Council at Meeting or (iii) the Mayor either prior to or
during a Meeting.
If a speaker chooses not to speak when called, the speaker will be deemed to have waived his or her
opportunity to speak on the matter. Speakers may not (i) reserve a portion of their time for a later
time or (ii) transfer any portion of their time to another speaker.
Mayor Wally Nichols
Councilmember Mike Archambault Councilmember Henry Leger
Vice Mayor Ginny Dickey Councilmember Keith McMahan
Councilmember Ed Kehe Councilmember Jay Schlum
Page z:\council packets\2008\r1-17-08\agenda 1-17-08 .doc 1/11/2008 5:10 PM
Page 2 of 3
CALL TO ORDER –Mayor Nichols
1.) ROLL CALL AND VOTE TO GO INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION: (i) Pursuant to §38-
431.03(A)(4), for discussion or consultation with the attorneys of the public body in order to
consider its position and instruct its attorneys regarding the public body’s position regarding
contracts that are the subject of negotiations, in pending or contemplated litigation or in
settlement discussions conducted in order to avoid or resolve litigation. (Specifically, the
Golf Resort Properties litigation); and (ii) Pursuant to §38-431.03(A)(3), for discussion or
consultation for legal advice with the attorney or attorneys of the public body. (Specifically,
for legal advice with respect to tax matters.)
2.) RETURN TO REGULAR SESSION
CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Mayor Nichols
INVOCATION – Father John McDonough, Church of the Ascension
ROLL CALL – Mayor Nichols
MAYOR’S REPORT
i) The Mayor will read a proclamation declaring January 31, 2008, as Pony Express Day.
SCHEDULED PUBLIC APPEARANCES/PRESENTATIONS
i) None
CALL TO THE PUBLIC
Pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431-01(G), public comment is permitted (not required) on matters not listed
on the agenda. Any such comment (i) must be within the jurisdiction of the Council and (ii) is
subject to reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions. The Council will not discuss or take
legal action on matters raised during “Call to the Public” unless the matters are properly noticed for
discussion and legal action. At the conclusion of the call to the public, individual Councilmembers
may (i) respond to criticism, (ii) ask staff to review a matter or (iii) ask that the matter be placed on
a future Council agenda.
CONSENT AGENDA
1. CONSIDERATION of approving the Town Council MEETING MINUTES of January 3, 2008.
REGULAR AGENDA
2. DISCUSSION WITH POSSIBLE DIRECTION to staff relating to the Town of Fountain Hills’
privilege license tax rate.
3. CONSIDERATION of RESOLUTION 2008-05, calling the May 20, 2008 election for the purpose
of submitting to the qualified electors of the Town the question of authorizing the Town to levy a
Primary Property tax.
4. DISCUSSION with POSSIBLE DIRECTION to staff regarding the Strategic Planning Advisory
Commission’s proposed revenue shortfall solutions.
5. UPDATE on the TIME LINE for recruitment of a Town Manager and the estimated
recruitment costs.
6. CONSIDERATION of a SITE PLAN for “Mobile West, LLC”, located at 11803 Saguaro
Boulevard to allow the sale of Golf Carts and related items on property located in the C-3 zoning
district. Case #PD2007-01.
Page z:\council packets\2008\r1-17-08\agenda 1-17-08 .doc 1/11/2008 5:10 PM
Page 3 of 3
7. PUBLIC HEARING of ORDINANCE 08-01, a text amendment to Chapter 18, Town Center
Commercial Zoning District, of the Zoning Ordinance. If adopted, the amendment would allow for
Greater Building Heights, Reduced Setbacks, Shared Parking, and Multi-Family Residential uses in
the “TCCD” zoning district. Case #Z2007-05
8. CONSIDERATION of ORDINANCE 08-01, a text amendment to Chapter 18, Town Center
Commercial Zoning District, of the Zoning Ordinance. If adopted, the amendment would allow for
Greater Building Heights, Reduced Setbacks, Shared Parking, and Multi-Family Residential uses in
the “TCCD” zoning district. Case #Z2007-05
9. PUBLIC HEARING of ORDINANCE #08-02, to amend a portion of the Official Zoning Map of
approximately 18.44 acres in size from Intermediate Commercial Zoning District (C-2) to Town
Center Commercial District (TCCD) in the downtown area. Case #Z2007-04
10. CONSIDERATION of ORDINANCE #08-02, to amend a portion of the Official Zoning Map of
approximately 18.44 acres in size from Intermediate Commercial Zoning District (C-2) to Town
Center Commercial District (TCCD) in the downtown area. Case #Z2007-04
11. PROGRESS REPORT on the established items of Council business:
a. Development fees adjustment
b. Downtown development agreement/C-2 Zoning to TCCD
c. Environmental policy
d. General access to the mountain preserve
e. Preparing a sound town financial future
f. State trust land/Ellman development agreement
g. Town Hall water feature at Avenue of the Fountains and La Montana Drive
h. Traffic control at Avenue of the Fountains and Saguaro.
12. DISCUSSION with POSSIBLE DIRECTION to staff regarding the Golf Resort Properties LLC
litigation.
13. QUARTERLY REPORT by the Interim Town Manager of Council goals.
14. SUMMARY of COUNCIL REQUESTS by Town Manager.
15. COUNCIL DISCUSSION/DIRECTION to the Town Manager.
Items listed below are related only to the propriety of (i) placing such items on a future
agenda for action or (ii) directing staff to conduct further research and report back to the
Council:
A) None.
16. ADJOURNMENT.
DATED this 11th day of January 2008.
Bevelyn J. Bender, Town Clerk
The Town of Fountain Hills endeavors to make all public meetings accessible to persons with disabilities. Please call 480-816-5100
(voice) or 1-800-367-8939 (TDD) 48 hours prior to the meeting to request a reasonable accommodation to participate in this meeting
or to obtain agenda information in large print format. Supporting documentation and staff reports furnished the Council with this
agenda are available for review in the Clerk’s office.
z:\council packets\2008\r1-17-08\aaf minutes.docx Page 1 of 1
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
TOWN COUNCIL
AGENDA ACTION FORM
Meeting Date: 1/17/2008
Meeting Type: Regular
Agenda Type: Consent
Submitting Department:
Administration
Staff Contact Information: Bevelyn J Bender, 480-816-5115, bbender@fh.az.gov
Strategic Priority: Not applicable
Council Goal: Not applicable
REQUEST TO COUNCIL: CONSIDERATION of approving the Town Council MEETING MINUTES of January 3,
2008.
Applicant: NA
Applicant Contact Information: NA
Property Location: NA
Related Ordinance, Policy or Guiding Principle: A.R.S. §38-431.01
Staff Summary (background): The intent of approving previous meeting minutes is to ensure an accurate account of
the discussion and action that took place at that meeting for archival purposes. Approved minutes are placed on the
Town’s website in compliance with state law.
Risk Analysis (options or alternatives with implications): NA
Fiscal Impact (initial and ongoing costs; budget status): NA
Recommendation(s) by Board(s) or Commission(s): NA
Staff Recommendation(s): Approve
SUGGESTED MOTION: Movet to approve the consent agenda.
Attachment(s): None
Submitted and Approved by:
Town Clerk 1/11/08
Approved:
_________________________________________
Interim Town Manager Date
Page 1 of 5
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
TOWN COUNCIL
AGENDA ACTION FORM
Meeting Date: January 17, 2008
Meeting Type: Regular
Agenda Type: Regular
Submitting Department: Finance
Staff Contact Information: Julie Ghetti, Finance Director, 480-816-5113, jghetti@fh.az.gov
Strategic Priority: Yes
Council Goal: Yes
REQUEST TO COUNCIL: DISCUSSION with POSSIBLE DIRECTION to staff relating to the Town of Fountain Hills’
privilege license tax rate.
Applicant: N/A
Applicant Contact Information: N/A
Property Location: N/A
Related Ordinance, Policy or Guiding Principle: N/A
Staff Report: On January 8, 2008 the public and Town Council were presented with a staff report and recommendations
based on the Strategic Planning Advisory Commission’s Report to Town Council dated December, 2007. The Council
has requested additional information, specifically:
1. Fountain Hills spending cap: All cities and towns in Arizona are subject to some form of expenditure limitation
prescribed by Arizona Revised Statutes §41-1279.07. The State imposed limitation uses actual payments of local
revenues for FY1979-80 as the base limit; this base consists of those expenditures “controlled” by the State
limitation and does not include those revenues specifically exempted from the limitation. As a blanket statement,
everything not specifically excluded is included under the expenditure limitation. Examples of things that are
excluded from the limit are interest earnings, grants, Highway User Revenues, bond payments, etc. Fountain
Hills’ expenditure limit for FY08 is $25,546,731; expenditures subject to the limitation are $20,775,154.
2. Should the Council wish to amend the Fountain Hills sales tax code this could be accomplished by Ordinance;
changes in sales tax rates or adoption of model city tax code local or model options do not have to be approved
by the voters or reviewed by the Municipal Tax Code Commission, but such changes must be filed within ten days
after council action.
Staff will provide more information with a presentation of alternate scenarios at the public meeting. A copy of the
presentation will be available 24 hours prior to the meeting.
Risk Analysis (options or alternatives with implications): None
Fiscal Impact (initial and ongoing costs; budget status): None
Recommendation(s) by Board(s) or Commission(s):None
Staff Recommendation(s): N/A
Page 2 of 5
SUGGESTED MOTION: N/A
Submitted by:
________________________________________
Finance Director Date
Approved by:
________________________________________
Interim Town Manager Date
Page 3 of 5
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
TOWN COUNCIL
AGENDA ACTION FORM
Meeting Date: January 17, 2008
Meeting Type: Regular
Agenda Type: Regular
Submitting Department: Finance
Staff Contact Information: Julie Ghetti, Finance Director, 480-816-5113, jghetti@fh.az.gov
Strategic Priority: Yes
Council Goal: Yes
REQUEST TO COUNCIL: CONSIDERATION of RESOLUTION 2008-05, calling the May 20, 2008, election for the
purpose of submitting to the qualified electors of the Town the question of authorizing the Town to levy a
Primary Property Tax.
Applicant: N/A
Applicant Contact Information: N/A
Property Location: N/A
Related Ordinance, Policy or Guiding Principle: N/A
Staff Report: On January 8, 2008 the public and Town Council were presented with a staff report and recommendations
based on the Strategic Planning Advisory Commission’s Report to Town Council dated December 20, 2007. The Council
has requested additional information, specifically:
1. Should the voters approve a primary levy it will be the base for determining levy limitations for the Town for
subsequent fiscal years. There is no provision in state statutes that provides for cities or towns to go back to the
voters to increase the levy.
2. The limitations on primary valuation increases are mandated by the Arizona Constitution and cannot be changed
by law. In addition, the Arizona Constitution limits the total amount of primary property taxes that cities and towns
can levy. The amount of total primary property taxes that a city or town can levy is limited by a levy limit that
grows by 2% each year plus new construction. Once the levy is established by the voters the Town Council will
authorize a levy each year during the budget process. An example of how the levy would work follows:
i. Primary property tax levy amount is established by voters $4.5M
ii. Maricopa County establishes tax rate on property owners $1.00 per $100 of AV
iii. Town collects revenue from property tax November and March $4.5M
iv. Next year Town levy is increased by 2% (max allowed) $4.59M
1. Add new property from new construction, annexation, etc. $0.06M
v. Next year Town levy is increased by 2% (including new const) $4.75M
3. The ballot language that the Town of Queen Creek used was “Shall the Town of Queen Creek, Arizona, be
authorized to levy a primary property tax not to exceed $4,800,000 for the cost of fire, emergency medical
services (EMS) and law enforcement services?”.
4. Should the Council wish to amend the Fountain Hills sales tax code this could be accomplished by Ordinance;
changes in sales tax rates or adoption of model city tax code local or model options do not have to be approved
by the voters or reviewed by the Municipal Tax Code Commission, but such changes must be filed within ten days
after council action.
; Draft Resolution No. 2008-05
Page 5 of 5
Submitted by:
________________________________________
Finance Director Date
Approved by:
________________________________________
Interim Town Manager Date
799486.1
RESOLUTION NO. 2008-05
A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF
FOUNTAIN HILLS, ARIZONA, ORDERING AND CALLING AN
ELECTION TO BE HELD IN AND FOR THE TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS,
ARIZONA ON MAY 20, 2008, TO SUBMIT TO THE QUALIFIED
ELECTORS THEREOF THE QUESTION OF THE PROPOSED AMOUNT TO
BE RAISED BY PRIMARY (AD VALOREM) PROPERTY TAXES.
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council (the “Town Council”) of the Town of Fountain
Hills, Arizona (the “Town”), have determined that the Town should levy primary (ad valorem)
property taxes in the next and each succeeding tax year for the purposes permitted by applicable
law and to be set forth in the official ballot; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to ARIZ. REV. STAT. § Section 42-17056, as amended, the Town
Council must submit the proposed amount to be raised by primary (ad valorem) property taxes
for approval of the qualified electors of the Town.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF
THE TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS as follows:
SECTION 1. Pursuant to ARIZ. REV. STAT. §§ 42-17056, 35-453 and 35-454, as
amended, an election in the Town is hereby ordered and called to be held on May 20, 2008, at
which time there shall be submitted to the qualified electors of the Town the proposed amount to
be raised by primary (ad valorem) property taxes as set forth in the form of ballot attached
hereto, marked Exhibit A and hereby made a part of this resolution.
SECTION 2. The officers of the Town are hereby authorized to do all things necessary
or appropriate to conduct the election, including the preparation and distribution of an
informational pamphlet. The Town Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to cause the
informational pamphlet to be prepared and mailed as required by law and in accordance with the
provisions of this resolution and to cause a copy of the informational pamphlet to be submitted to
the Arizona Department of Revenue within thirty (30) days after the election.
SECTION 3. Notice of the special election is ordered to be given by causing the
informational pamphlet to be mailed not less than thirty-five (35) days before the date of election
to the residences in which a registered voter of the Town resides as shown on the general county
register.
SECTION 4. The election will be conducted and the poll lists kept, and the votes cast
thereat shall be counted and tabulated and the returns thereof will be made in the manner
provided by law and only persons will be allowed to vote at the election who are qualified
electors of the Town. The polls will open at 6:00 a.m. and will close at 7:00 p.m. The election
may be consolidated with the general election conducted in the Town on May 20, 2008.
SECTION 5. Early voting will be permitted at the election in accordance with the
provisions of Title 16, Chapter 4, Article 8, Arizona Revised Statutes, as amended.
799486.1
2
SECTION 6. In order to comply with the Voting Rights Act of 1965, as amended, the
following proceedings pertaining to this election will be translated into Spanish and posted,
published and recorded in each instance where posting, publication and recording of such
proceedings are required, to-wit: ballot, voter informational pamphlet, all early voting material
and all instructions at the polls.
SECTION 7. The Town Clerk is hereby directed to cause ballots to be printed and
delivered to the election boards to be furnished to the qualified electors offering to vote at the
election. The election may be conducted using either electromechanical or electronic vote
recording and ballot counting equipment or paper ballots, as shall be determined to be in the best
interests of the Town by the Maricopa County Elections Department and the Mayor and the
Town Clerk or either of them. The Mayor and the Town Clerk or either of them is authorized
and directed to enter into a contract with the Maricopa County Recorder to obtain precinct
registers for the election and to enter into an agreement with the Maricopa County Elections
Department to conduct the election for the Town.
SECTION 8. As soon as the polls are closed, the election officials will forward the votes
cast to the Town Council for canvassing. The Town Council will meet at the Council Chambers
on a day that is within twenty (20) days after the election date to canvass the returns of the
election. The Town Council will be governed by the vote of the majority on the question
submitted.
[SIGNATURES ON FOLLOWING PAGE]
799486.1
3
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Mayor and Council of the Town of Fountain Hills,
Arizona, on January 17, 2008.
FOR THE TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS: ATTESTED TO:
W. J. Nichols, Mayor Bevelyn J. Bender, Town Clerk
REVIEWED BY: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Kathleen M. Zanon, Interim Town Manager Andrew J. McGuire, Town Attorney
CERTIFICATION
I, Bevelyn J. Bender, the duly appointed and acting Clerk of the Town of Fountain Hills,
Arizona, do hereby certify that the above and foregoing Resolution No. _____ was duly passed
by the City Council of the Town of Fountain Hills, Arizona, at a regular meeting held on January
17, 2008, and that the Mayor and ____ Council Members were present thereat.
_______________________________________
Bevelyn J. Bender, Clerk
799486.1
EXHIBIT A
OFFICIAL BALLOT
FOR SPECIAL ELECTION IN AND FOR THE TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS,
ARIZONA ON MAY 20, 2008.
QUESTION
PURPOSE: PRIMARY (AD VALOREM) PROPERTY TAX
IMPLEMENTATION
Shall the Mayor and Council of the Town of Fountain Hills, Arizona, be authorized to levy a
primary property tax not to exceed $___________ for the cost of fire, emergency medical
services and law enforcement services? If such amount is approved by the voters, it will be the
base for determining levy limitations for the Town for subsequent fiscal years.
PRIMARY LEVY, YES
PRIMARY LEVY, NO
Page 1 of 3
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
TOWN COUNCIL
AGENDA ACTION FORM
Meeting Date: January 17, 2008
Meeting Type: Regular
Agenda Type: Regular
Submitting Department: Administration
Staff Contact Information: Kate Zanon, Interim Town Manager
Strategic Priority: Yes
Council Goal: Yes
REQUEST TO COUNCIL: DISCUSSION with POSSIBLE DIRECTION to staff regarding the Strategic Planning
Advisory Commission’s proposed revenue shortfall solutions.
Applicant: N/A
Applicant Contact Information: N/A
Property Location: N/A
Related Ordinance, Policy or Guiding Principle: N/A
Staff Report: On January 8, 2008 the public and Town Council were presented with a staff report and recommendations
based on the Strategic Planning Advisory Commission’s Report to Town Council dated December 20, 2007. The Council
was not able to review all the recommendations at that meeting and had asked staff to bring back these items for their
review. The remaining SPAC recommendations are as follows:
1. Immediately develop a detailed 3-year financial forecast.
Recommendation: Staff provided preliminary information to the Council at the January 8, 2008 special session. Staff will
continue to evaluate and project the Town’s financial future on a three-year horizon in the upcoming FY08/09 budget
process. Please let staff know if you have further direction.
2. Immediately develop and implement a series of actions designed to show that all efforts have been made to reduce the
amount of revenue needed to be raised through a primary property tax.
i. Implement cost savings areas and establish spending guidelines that reflect the deteriorating financial
situation.
ii. Implement am economic development program (with input from the Business Vitality team).
iii. Put on hold all major investments outlined in the Strategic Plan 3-5 year Priorities.
Recommendation: Staff would like direction to move forward with a fiscal restructuring plan. The current financial policies
would be amended to adopt guidelines and courses of action when there are signals that budget shortfalls are likely. The
revised policy would be brought back to the Council at a future meeting.
The Town has had an expanding economic program for 3.5 years. Discussions with the Business Vitality Committee have
already begun to assist with continuing to grow, further develop and extend the reach of the economic development in the
community.
The Town has already begun some of the Town’s 3-5 year priorities as outlined in the chart below. Some priorities have
been extend out as a result of development factors that have not happened as of yet. Staff would like to continue to
implement the major 3-5 year strategic priorities as proposed.
Page 2 of 3
Please let staff know if you have further direction.
3. Enhance revenues to reduce the volatility of existing sources.
i. Acquire resources to assure maximum collection of retail sales tax, residential rental sales taxes and
business licenses.
Recommendation: Staff would like to propose a new position in the FY08-09 budget that would be responsible for
auditing retail sales tax revenues. This position would be full cost recovery and expected to collect twice the cost of the
position.
Please let staff know if you have further direction.
ii. Increase development and permit fees.
Recommendation: In the FY 08-09 budget staff will propose both a full development fee study and a recommendation to
evaluate all Town fees including permit fees, including an inflationary factor. Setting an inflationary factor on development
fees is currently under review. Please let staff know if you have further direction.
iii. Increase “bed tax” on hotels/resorts
Staff needs Council direction on this item.
iv. Increase the coverage allowance for R1-43 lots from 15% to 20%.
Staff needs Council direction on this item.
v. Establish a stormwater environmental utility.
Staff needs Council direction on this item.
vi. Levy a primary property tax.
Council will consider this item separately.
4. Adjust current reserve management policies.
Recommendation: Staff would review the current financial policies and make recommendations for revised policies based
on SPAC’s recommendations and guidelines; the amended policies would be brought back to the Council at a future
meeting.
Please let staff know if you have further direction.
5. Include in future Town Budgets a brief citizen understandable overview.
Recommendation: Staff will work with the Public Information Officer to create a budget document that is reader friendly.
Additionally, staff will create a summary budget brochure that will be available through the various public information
avenues.
Strategic Priorities Projects Cost Status
Add recreation amenities Hiking trails $4.0M Defer to FY11-15
Pedestrian friendly
walking paths
Defer to FY11-15
Expand bike lanes Not started
Additional concerts
and movies in the
park
On going
Enhance pedestrian safety Crosswalks, signals $0.6M In design
Build more
sidewalks
$0.3M In design
Maintain smooth streets Increase frequency
of street resurfacing
$8.0M Not started
Preservation of
Environment
Increase frequency
of wash
maintenance
Not started
Park improvements Fountain Park $2.8M Completed
Desert Vista Park $2.3M Negotiating price
Four Peaks Park $2.0M Defer to FY11-15
Page 3 of 3
Please let staff know if you have further direction.
If there are any other items or areas that the Council would like staff to spend time researching please give us further
direction.
Risk Analysis (options or alternatives with implications): None
Fiscal Impact (initial and ongoing costs; budget status): None
Recommendation(s) by Board(s) or Commission(s): None
Staff Recommendation(s): See notations above.
SUGGESTED MOTION: N/A
Approved by:
________________________________________
Interim Town Manager Date
Page 1 of 3
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
TOWN COUNCIL
AGENDA ACTION FORM
Meeting Date: 1/17/2008
Meeting Type: Regular
Agenda Type: Regular
Submitting Department: Administration
Staff Contact Information: Joan McIntosh, Human Resources Administrator, 816-5125,jmcintosh@fh.az.gov
Strategic Priority: Not applicable
Council Goal: Not applicable
REQUEST TO COUNCIL: Update on the time line for recruitment of a Town Manager and the estimated
recruitment costs.
Applicant: 0
Applicant Contact Information: Not Applicable
Property Location: Not Applicable
Related Ordinance, Policy or Guiding Principle: Not Applicable
Staff Summary (background): The Recruitment & Selection Committee for a new Town Manager met on
December 27, 2007. The following timeline was established:
The Fountain Hills website was ready to receive input from the Community on 12/13/07
what they would like to see in a Town Manager. Information was also placed
on Channel 11 and in the Fountain Hills Times to try and reach the largest
number of residents possible. Deadline for responses was 1/4/07.
Town Council formally appointed a Recruitment Committee consisting of 12/20/07
Council Members Archambault, Dickey, Leger; Human Resources Administrator,
Joan McIntosh; and staff member, Shaunna Williams.
Recruitment Committee met for the first time 12/27/07
Mailing of brochures, ads placed, etc. 01/11/08
Human Resources presents recruitment timeline to the Mayor & Council 01/17/08
Deadline for receipt of application packets 02/15/08
Meeting with Recruitment Committee to discuss candidates and narrow 02/22/08
to semi-finalists
Interactive in person or video interviews with top 8-10 semi-finalists 02/25 –03/07/08
Reference checks performed on top four to five finalists 03/10 –03/14/08
Summary report to Committee on final candidates 03/19/08
Social evening with the candidates/spouses & Council/spouses 03/27/08
Mayor and Town Council interview four to five finalists 03/28/08
Direct Reports interview four to five finalists 03/28/08
Public Forum with Town Manager candidates 03/29/08
Executive Session – Decision on selected candidate 03/31/08
Negotiate with top candidate 04/01-04/08/08
New Town Manager reports to work 30 – 60 days later
TOWN MANAGER RECRUITMENT COST ESTIMATE
ADS:
ICMA
JOBS AVAILABLE
PUBLIC SECTOR JOB BULLETIN
LEAGUE OF AZ CITIES/TOWNS
NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES
ALLIANCE FOR INNOVATION NEWSLETTER
WESTERN CITY MAGAZINE
NATIONAL FORUM FOR BLACK PUBLIC ADMIN.
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS WEBSITE
SUBTOTAL: $2,846
INTERVIEW EXPENSES: $12,970
GRAND TOTAL: $15,816
Risk Analysis (options or alternatives with implications): Not completing this process in house would result
in hiring an outside search firm at a range of $30,000 - $35,000
Fiscal Impact (initial and ongoing costs; budget status): $15,816
Recommendation(s) by Board(s) or Commission(s): N/A
Staff Recommendation(s): N/A
SUGGESTED MOTION: N/A
Attachment(s): None
Submitted and Approved by:
_________________________________________
Department Director Date
Approved:
_________________________________________
Interim Town Manager Date
Page 1 of 3
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
TOWN COUNCIL
AGENDA ACTION FORM
Meeting Date: January 17, 2008
Meeting Type: Regular
Agenda Type: Regular
Submitting Department: Planning and Zoning
Staff Contact Information: Bob Rodgers, Senior Planner, 480-816-5138, rrodgers@fh.az.gov
Strategic Priority: Not applicable
Council Goal: Not applicable
REQUEST TO COUNCIL: CONSIDERATION of the SITE PLAN for the “Mobile West, LLC” to allow the sale of Golf
Carts and related items on property located in the C-3 zoning district. Project located at 11803 Saguaro Blvd.
(APN #176-08-595) Case #PD2007-01
Applicant: George Bridges, Mobile West LLC
Applicant Contact Information: 13862 N. Hamilton Drive, Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
(480) 837-1155
george@azdreams.com
Property Location: Parkview Saguaro Plaza
11803 Saguaro Blvd, Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
Related Ordinance, Policy or Guiding Principle:
Zoning Ordinance Section 2.05 - Plan Review
Zoning Ordinance Section 12.02.D.7 - Permitted Uses in C-3 Zoning District
Staff Summary (background):
This application is for approval of a site plan for Mobile West, LLC. Mobile West, LLC has leased space and is currently
selling Golf Carts, Neighborhood Electric Vehicles, Peoplemovers and Low Speed Vehicles at their storefront located at
11803 Saguaro Blvd. Pursuant to Section 12.02.D.7 of the Zoning Ordinance, such vehicle sales are only permitted in the
C-3 zoning district if the Planning & Zoning Commission and the Town Council both approve a site plan.
The proposal is actually a plan of the existing business operation. Mobile West, LLC has been allowed by staff to continue
their business in the current location subject to the outcome of the Site Plan approval process with the Planning & Zoning
Commission and Town Council.
The plan identifies the existing interior display and sales areas, the loading & unloading area in the rear off the alley, a
new outdoor display area in front of the building, and a new shared outdoor display area with Hertz rent-a-car in front of
the parking lot. It is important to note that no existing parking spaces will be lost due to this proposal. Staff has reviewed
these items and has determined that the proposal will not be detrimental to public health, safety, or general welfare.
ORDINANCE REQUIREMENTS:
The Fountain Hills Zoning Ordinance requires that a “Plan of Development” be submitted and approved by the
Engineering Department as well as the Planning & Zoning Department prior to final approval. This has been done and
both town departments have approved the proposed plan subject to final approval by the Planning & Zoning Commission
and Town Council.
The zoning ordinance provides that when the Planning & Zoning Commission or the Town Council are reviewing a
proposed Plan of Development Site Plan, any final approval may include reasonable additional requirements as to
grading, cut and fill, slope restoration, signs, vehicular ingress and egress, parking, lighting, setbacks of buildings, etc., to
the extent that the noted purpose and objectives of Chapter 2 are maintained and ensured. The Chapter 2 stated purpose
is “to make a finding that the proposed development conforms with the intent and provisions of this ordinance and all other
town ordinances.”
Staff has reviewed the proposal and believes that a finding may be made that the proposed plan will meet the stated
purpose of the zoning ordinance subject to the following stipulations:
1. The applicant shall stripe and label the pavement in the outdoor display areas. The applicant shall discontinue
the display of items for sale in the plaza parking lot or public right-of-way.
2. All loading and unloading of any merchandise shall be done from the alley behind the plaza. The applicant
shall discontinue loading and unloading activities in the public right-of-way.
3. Final approval shall not be valid prior to the completion of all site improvements as depicted and approved.
Said improvements must be approved by the Town Engineer, The Fire Department and the Planning &
Zoning Administrator.
Risk Analysis (options or alternatives with implications):
Denial of the Site Plan will require that Mobile West, LLC close and relocate to another property.
Approval will allow Mobile West, LLC to continue to operate in its current location with designated loading and
display areas.
Fiscal Impact (initial and ongoing costs; budget status): No financial impacts are anticipated.
Recommendation(s):
The Planning & Zoning Commission voted at their regular meeting of December 13, 2007 to approve the proposed site
plan subject to the stipulations outlined in the staff report and to forward a recommendation that the Town Council also
approve the proposal.
Staff Recommendation(s):
Staff recommends that the Town Council approve the proposed Site Plan for Mobile West, LLC subject to the stipulations
outlined in the staff report.
SUGGESTED MOTION:
Move to approve the proposed Site Plan for Mobile West, LLC subject to the stipulations outlined in the staff report.
Case # PD2007-01
Submitted by:
Bob Rodgers, Senior Planner 1/09/08
Name/Title Date
Approved:
_________________________________________
Interim Town Manager Date
Approved by:
___________________________________________
Department Director Date
Attachment(s):
Site Map
Application
Applicant’s Narrative
Site Plan
Floor Plan
Correspondence - Nov. 5, 2007
12/13/07 Planning & Zoning Commission Minutes
O
U
LEV
A TOWERW365'
145'N31d20m00sE150'162.30'
162.30'
1
192'110'17
596
176-08-595
Parkview Plaza, LLC
Site Map
SITE
DISPLAY AREAS
NEW
SHARED
Page 1 of 1
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
TOWN COUNCIL
AGENDA ACTION FORM
Meeting Date: January17, 2008
Meeting Type: Regular
Agenda Type: Regular
Submitting Department: Administration
Staff Contact Information: Kate Zanon, Interim Town Manager, 480-816-5106, kzanon@fh.az.gov
Strategic Priority: No
Council Goal: No
REPORT TO COUNCIL: DISCUSSION with POSSIBLE DIRECTION to staff regarding the Golf Resort Properties
LLC litigation.
Applicant: N/A
Applicant Contact Information: N/A
Property Location: N/A
Related Ordinance, Policy or Guiding Principle: N/A
Staff Summary (background): N/A
Risk Analysis (options or alternatives with implications): N/A
Fiscal Impact (initial and ongoing costs; budget status): N/A
Recommendation(s) by Board(s) or Commission(s): N/A
Staff Recommendation(s): N/A
SUGGESTED MOTION: N/A
Attachment(s): N/A
Submitted by:
___________________________________________
Name/Title Date
Approved:
_________________________________________
Interim Town Manager Date
Approved by:
___________________________________________
Department Director Date
Page 1 of 1
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
TOWN COUNCIL
AGENDA ACTION FORM
Meeting Date: January17, 2008
Meeting Type: Regular
Agenda Type: Regular
Submitting Department: Administration
Staff Contact Information: Kate Zanon, Interim Town Manager, 480-816-5106, kzanon@fh.az.gov
Strategic Priority: Yes
Council Goal: Yes
REPORT TO COUNCIL: Quarterly update by the Town Manager on progress of implementing Council’s goals for
FY2007-08.
Applicant: N/A
Applicant Contact Information: N/A
Property Location: N/A
Related Ordinance, Policy or Guiding Principle: Strategic Plan and FY2007-8 Council retreat
Staff Summary (background): Each quarter our team provides an in-depth report on their progress toward implementing
Council goals adopted for the fiscal year.
Risk Analysis (options or alternatives with implications): N/A
Fiscal Impact (initial and ongoing costs; budget status): N/A
Recommendation(s) by Board(s) or Commission(s): N/A
Staff Recommendation(s): Review
SUGGESTED MOTION: N/A
Attachment(s): Report entitled, “2nd Quarter Progress on Council Goals for FY2007-08.”
Submitted by:
___________________________________________
Name/Title Date
Approved:
_________________________________________
Interim Town Manager Date
Approved by:
___________________________________________
Department Director Date
REPORT TO
FOUNTAIN HILLS TOWN COUNCIL
2nd QUARTER
PROGRESS ON
COUNCIL GOALS
FOR FY2007-08
Presented by
Kate Zanon, Interim Town Manager
January 17, 2008
Page 1 of 18
During a goal-setting retreat in February 2007, the Town Council identified eight primary goals
for the FY2007-08 budget. A second retreat was held with management staff to develop
specific implementation plans and identify resources necessary to carry out the goals
established by the Council.
The following graph depicts progress the staff has made toward achieving all goals.
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
Promote commercial development/business vitality
Create responsible environmental policy
Provide public access to McDowell Mountain Preserve
Improve pedestrian safety
Ensure responsible development of State Trust Land
Revenue shortfall recommendation by 12/31/07
Economic study of key revenue options
Implementation Plan for Strategic Plan Year 2
PERCENT COMPLETE
PROGRESS TO COUNCIL GOALS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2007-08
Quarter 1
Quarter 2
OVERVIEW
Page 2 of 18
Goal 1. To create a timeline and implementation plan for the second year of the
Strategic Plan.
Responsibility Agent: Julie Ghetti, Finance Director
Percent complete: 100%
Objective 1.1. To approve formally the Council’s goals and objectives by March15,
2007.
Council approved their Goals and Objectives for Fiscal Year 2007-2008 at
their Council meeting on April 5, 2007.
Objective 1.2. To identify and assign responsibility and costs of implementing the
Council goals and objectives through the budget process by April, 2007.
The cost estimates for Council goals and objectives for the second year of the
strategic priorities were identified in April and have been included in the Fiscal
Year 2007-08 budget that was adopted by the Town Council in June 2007.
Costs associated with the implementation of the Council goals that are part of
Year 2 of Strategic Plan were included in the budget and are as follows:
Goal Responsibility Budget Actual
Make a recommendation by
December 31, 2007 for resolution
of the revenue shortfall for the
community - Completed
SPAC assisted by
Town Manager $45,000 $23,000
Contract an economic study of the
current and future impacts of
changes in key revenue options -
Completed
SPAC assisted by
Town Manager $72,000 $19,000
GOAL 1
Page 3 of 18
Goal 2. To contract an economic study of the current and future impacts of
changes in key revenue options.
Goal 3. To make a recommendation by December 31, 2007 for a resolution of
the revenue shortfall, for the community.
Goals 2 and 3 are closely interrelated, so their implementation objectives are
consolidated; implementing these objectives will result in both goals being
accomplished.
Responsibility Agents: Kate Zanon, Interim Town Manager
Julie Ghetti, Finance Director
Percent complete: 100%
Objective 3.1. The Strategic Planning Advisory Commission, in cooperation with
a consultant, conduct the appropriate research and identify options to deal with
our revenue shortfall.
Through the guidance of SPAC, the Town hired a financial consultant firm,
TLHocking & Associates, to conduct an analysis of the Town’s financial future
and propose recommendations to resolve the projected revenue shortfall.
The “Hocking Report” was presented to the Mayor and Town Council during
the September 20, 2007, Town Council meeting.
Report summary:
Issue is financial structure due to limited availability of land and
dependence on one time revenues;
TLHocking was hired to review financial structure and make
recommendation to address the long term;
Cities used for comparison – Cave Creek, Chandler, Paradise Valley,
Litchfield Park, Pleasant Hills, CA, Prairie Village, KS and San Juan
Capistrano, CA because of their limited land and affluent population.
Conclusions:
Town lacks a major retail commercial base;
Town needs to encourage economic development projects that
generate sales tax;
Town revenue is based on economically sensitive sources;
Need to develop reliable and stable revenue sources;
Reserve funds are not adequate to meet a changing revenue structure.
GOALS 2 and 3
Page 4 of 18
Recommendations:
Aggressive sales tax and business license program;
Full cost recovery program for user fees and charges for service;
Increase fund balance to 50% of revenues;
Economic stabilization fund;
Consider primary property tax;
Increase bed tax;
Storm water management monthly impact fee;
Economic development to expand retail tax base;
Bonding for some capital projects.
Objective 3.2. Utilizing input from the SPAC and the consultant, a consortium of
citizens, businesses, civic organizations, the SPAC and representatives of the
Council propose a tax package.
The Community Focus Group, chaired by Dick Bauer, met on September 24,
October 1 and October 8, 2007, and arrived at a proposed revenue solutions
package. Following a community survey to test the community’s acceptance
of the proposed revenue solutions package (see objective 3.4 below), the
SPAC finalized their recommendations and presented them to the public and
Town Council at the December 20, 2007, Council meeting.
Objective 3.3. We enter into a comprehensive public education process on the
tax package proposed.
The Focus Group generated a number of recommendations which were
published in a widely circulated “Strategic Plan Update” in early November.
Numerous articles were also published in the Fountain Hills Times and the
Town’s Compass. Information was taken to various clubs and organizations
and presented at two Public Forums on November 15. In addition a website
was established that gave citizens an opportunity to submit concerns,
comments and ideas.
The staff was asked to analyze the proposed SPAC recommendations and
present the findings to the Council. On January 8, 2008, staff made a
presentation to the public and the Council with the results of the analysis.
Objective 3.4. A scientific survey of citizens is conducted to determine whether
or not the community will support the tax package proposed, and based on the
survey the Council either proposes a ballot issue in May of 2008 or, if there is a
thumbs down, then we, at that point, have to consider movement in another
direction.
Page 5 of 18
A random survey of Town resident was conducted in late November to test
their acceptance of the revenue solutions package proposed by the
Community Focus Group at that particular moment based on available
information. The survey results were presented to the Council on December
20, 2007.
Page 6 of 18
Goal 4. To ensure responsible development of the State Trust Land for the
community, in keeping with the character of the community.
Responsibility Agent: Richard Turner, Planning and Zoning Director
Percent complete: 40%
Objective 4.1. To guarantee understanding of the development regulations and
community character by the property owner (developer) by January 1, 2008.
Staff met eight times over the last quarter with The Ellman Companies, the
property owner. At these meetings, staff related to the owner information
regarding the Town’s development regulations, in addition to other
information. Some meetings were on specific topics such as provision of
necessary utilities, effluent disposal, trail connections and application
preparation.
Objective 4.2. To enhance processing of applications by Town departments by
reviewing all submitted applications within two weeks.
On January 2, 2008, the Ellman Companies filed applications to amend the
General Plan and the change the zoning on this property. Staff’s initial review
of these applications was completed in one week.
Objective 4.3. To advise and facilitate community understanding of proposed
development in keeping with the character of the community prior to public
hearings.
Staff encouraged The Ellman Companies to seek input from the community
prior to filing an application to amend the General Plan. They responded by
holding three separate open house meetings at the Community Center in the
month of December. Staff also attended one of these sessions. A different
neighborhood was invited to each open house. A fourth open house will be
held in February or March to gather input on the application as filed. We will
also be reviewing the plan to ensure consistency and compatibility with
existing development and development regulations.
Objective 4.4. To implement and apply the new PAD zoning ordinance to ensure
keeping with the character of the community, by January 1, 2008.
It has not been determined at this time if the developer will need any new
zoning.
GOAL 4
Page 7 of 18
Goal 5. To improve pedestrian safety for residents and visitors.
Responsibility Agent: Tom Ward, Public Works Director
Percent complete: 33%
Objective 5.1. To evaluate the existing draft study of pedestrian walkways
relative to all schools, and present recommendations to the Town Council, by
May 5, 2007.
Sidewalk grant funds are providing connectivity. Two major projects consist of
sidewalks on Fountain Hills Boulevard, from Fayette Drive to the Middle
School (estimated grant, $354,000; estimated Town match, $411,000) and
sidewalks the entire length of Alamosa Drive and on Del Cambre from
Grande Boulevard to Calaveras Avenue (estimated grant for design only,
$45,000; estimated construction costs, $1,156,150). Both projects are in
design and scheduled to start construction in 2009. Design is 90% complete
for Del Cambre and Alamosa, and 20% complete on Fountain Hills
Boulevard.
Objective 5.2. To evaluate the existing draft study of sidewalk gaps forcing
pedestrians into the street along major thoroughfares, and present
recommendations to the Town Council, by May 5, 2007.
On August 14, 2007, staff presented Council with a Long Range Sidewalk
Plan presentation. It was reported that there are approximately 31 miles of
unfunded sidewalks. The cost to construct these sidewalks is just under $13
million dollars. If a 40-year time period is considered, it will take an
expenditure of $323,000 per year, not including inflation, to build all of these
sidewalks. The map presented to Council will be incorporated into the
Updated General Plan
Objective 5.3. To assess the adequacy of downtown crosswalks, with
recommendations to the Town Council, by June 14, 2007.
On May 17, 2007 staff presented an action plan that would improve
pedestrian crossing conditions at Avenue of the Fountains and Saguaro
Boulevard. This plan provided a nine month temporary 3-way stop which
would give staff time to further analyze what end result is needed. During this
period staff was to observe peak pedestrian movements, check data from
surrounding streets and look at data when winter visitors are more prevalent.
Ahead of schedule, on December 6, 2007, staff presented alternatives to
GOAL 5
Page 8 of 18
Council for various types of traffic control. Council directed staff to install a U-
turn lane approximately 150 feet west of Saguaro Boulevard and research the
feasibility of a High Intensity Activated Crosswalk (HAWK) pedestrian signal
and report back to Council by April 17, 2008. The staff also looked at
crosswalks at six other intersections on Saguaro Boulevard beginning at
LaMontana Drive and ending at Colony Drive.
Page 9 of 18
Goal 6. To provide open access to the McDowell Mountain Preserve for the
public.
Responsibility Agent: Mark Mayer, Parks and Recreation Director
Percent complete: 70%
Objective 6.1. To select a public access point to the McDowell Mountain Preserve
by May 3, 2007.
Staff prepared an analysis of six different potential accesses to the preserve
that were reviewed by Council. For a variety of reasons five of the six were
eliminated. The remaining access at the end of Eagle Ridge Drive adjacent
to CopperWynd is the sole option that is currently being considered.
Objective 6.2. To reach an agreement with the appropriate association or owner on
the site chosen by June 1, 2007
A final draft agreement was prepared and accepted publically by the Town
Council at its December 20, 2007 meeting. MCO was asked to consider this
agreement after an extended period of discussions between the Town and
MCO regarding items proposed in the former draft agreements.
Objective 6.3. To prepare a master park plan and construction documents by
January 1, 2008.
An engineered plan has been prepared along with estimated quantities and
an estimate of potential construction costs for the temporary parking lot and
fenced trail access to the Preserve across MCO property. These costs are
estimated to be at least $95,000. Due to the potential cost of both the parking
area and the fencing being over $20,000, the items will need to be advertised
and bid.
Objective 6.4. To construct a parking lot by April 2008.
Construction cannot begin until a potential agreement between MCO and the
Town is approved. Then, as stated above, the items of the parking lot and
the fencing for the trail access will need to be advertised and bid.
GOAL 6
Page 10 of 18
Objective 6.5. To construct a trail by April 2008 (construction in parallel with parking
lot).
Trail construction across MCO property would only occur after the proposed
agreement was accepted by MCO. Trail construction is estimated to take
from eight to twelve weeks and would utilize the Sonoran Conservancy’s
volunteer “Trailblazers” to complete the work. Construction of the trail would
need to occur in the cooler months and could occur at the same time that the
parking lot was being constructed.
Page 11 of 18
Goal 7. To create a responsible environmental policy for the community,
addressing: air quality, dark skies, water, noise, recycling, hazardous
waste, energy, solar energy, solid waste, trails and natural environment.
Responsibility Agent: Richard Turner, Planning and Zoning Director
Percent complete: 67%
Objective 7.1. To research all existing Town environmental policies and consolidate
them into one report by July 1, 2007.
A steering committee was formed to provide guidance to staff with regard to
this goal. The committee is comprised of members of the Town Council,
Town staff and representatives of other agencies including the Fountain Hills
Sanitary District and the Fountain Hills Unified School District. An inventory
of existing Town environmental policies and practices was prepared by the
staff and presented to the steering committee at their first meeting on June
26, 2007. Items in the inventory include purchase of hybrid vehicles, street
sweeping, flexible employee work schedules, outdoor light controls, noise
regulations, low-water landscape regulations, efficient lighting in Town
facilities and our extensive open space preserve.
Objective 7.2. To identify gaps in existing Town environmental policies by July 1,
2007.
Staff researched environmental programs, practices and policies that have
been employed by other cities and towns in Arizona and elsewhere. With this
information, we developed a list of opportunities that may be appropriate for
the Town of Fountain Hills. Preliminary information on this topic was provided
to the steering committee at their second meeting on September 10, 2007.
Additional information in the form of a matrix of choices was provided to the
steering committee in advance of their third meeting on October 9, 2007. On
December 4, 2007, the steering committee ordered the highest priority
programs. The matrix follows:
GOAL 7
Page 12 of 18
Environmental Policies/Practices --------- Timeframe -------- -----------Priority ------------
Relative
Cost to
Town Notes
Short Medium Long High Medium Low
Item #Air Quality
1
All new and remodeled town facilities to be
LEED certified (green)X X M
2 Town facilities operations LEED certified X X M
3
Green building incentives for new
development X X M
4
Green building incentives for
redevelopment X X L
5
Sign U.S. Mayors Climate Protection
Agreement (Cool City)X X H
Town commitment to many
measures,…and measurements.
Measures overlap others
above.
6
Implement U.S. Mayors Climate Protection
Agreement (Cool City)X X
Dark Skies
Water
16
Partner with Sanitary District on all parks
and town facilities using reclaimed water
for irrigation X X
4 Peaks park only one
impacted. Study/discuss
opportunities in Ellman
properties. Adjacent to schools
opportunities.
17 "Rinse Smart" program X X
Will be implemented in
restaurants, cafeterias,etc).
Town to address as a resolution
on Oct 18. Partnering with
CCWC and ADWR.
Noise
Recycling
22 Town facilities and parks X X M
Startup and other costs/issues
with parks.
23 Effective curbside recycling X X L
Do we need to increase
participation? Do we limit
haulers? Should we separate
recyclable materials. How do
we increase large multi-family
housing developments?
24 Commercial, office X X L
Hazardous waste
25
Household hazardous waste disposal
program X X H
Potential grant? Partnering
with others?
26A Computer & TV recycling X X L
Sort of fits into Hazardous
waste disposal? Or it may be
part of recycling
Energy
28
Adopt the 2006 International Energy
Conservation Code X X L
Solar Energy
30
Fees exemption for installation of solar
devices and expediting review X X L
31
Change bulbs from incandescent to
fluorescent X X L
Implement in town facilities
and encourage community
31A Power Purchase agreements of solar panels???Needs research?
Solid Waste
33 Effective trash hauling X X L
Should we limit number of
haulers? Limit days? Limit
times? YES. Implementation
strategies needed.Require
RECYCLING
Trails and natural environment
36
Storm water management (testing and
enforcement)X X M
39
Town botanical garden
enhancements/maintenance X X L
40
Partnership with school district on
recreation sites X X M
42
Create Riparian environments in Ashbrook
wash using reclaimed water.X X ?
This joint project with the
Sanitary District would have
benefits to the community and
the district. Costs TBD but
would be shared. (NOTE
Phoenix' recent efforts with
their Rio Salado project)
Page 13 of 18
Objective 7.3. To research the laws and model policies of the State and the League
of Arizona Cities and Towns by October 1, 2007.
Staff has done extensive research on existing environmental policies,
practices and programs employed by other cities and towns. Much of this
work has been reported out to the steering committee at their five meetings
on June 26, September 10, October 9, October 23 and December 4, 2007.
With regard to the local communities of Queen Creek, Scottsdale, Paradise
Valley, Cave Creek, Apache Junction, Gilbert and Litchfield Park, we found
that there was no single environmental policy. In these communities, it is
their general plan that provides environmental guidance, with a focus on
meeting mandates. In many cities, community buildings are being
constructed employing “green” principles and practices. Recycling activities
are common in many communities. Scottsdale has taken a leadership role
with their LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) green
building program and also offers incentives to use solar power. The State
and Federal governments also have tax credits and other financial incentives
to promote the use of solar energy.
Objective 7.4. To present a report to Town Council, and develop a consensus on
environmental issues and liabilities by March 1, 2008.
A Town Council Work Study Meeting has been scheduled for February 12,
2008. Information from staff and the work of the steering committee will be
presented at this time. The March report to the Town Council will be
prepared following the Work Study Meeting.
Objective 7.5. To present to Town Council draft policy recommendations for agreed
issues by June 1, 2008.
Draft policy recommendations will be provided.
Objective 7.6. The formation of this comprehensive plan does not preclude action
during the interim that is environmental in nature.
The Town has taken several actions that are environmental in nature while
we are in the process of satisfying these objectives and overall goal.
A hybrid vehicle was purchased by Building Safety on August 31,
2007.
On August 2, 2007, the Town Council authorized the purchase of a
hybrid vehicle for use by the Code Enforcement Section.
Page 14 of 18
At the Town’s request, the “Water – Use It Wisely” organization
established a display of a water tower at the Town Library. This
display showed the average daily consumption of water.
A resolution and a memo of understanding with the Chaparral City
Water Company and the Arizona Department of Water Resources
regarding the use of pre-wash nozzles in restaurants in Town was
approved by the Town Council on October 18, 2007. The use of these
nozzles will significantly reduce the use of water by local restaurants.
The Town has developed a list of local recycling centers. This is
valuable information that we are providing to our residents.
The Town web page has been upgraded to include a link to an
environmental resource web page (www.earth911.org).
In furtherance of reducing air pollution, the Town is making progress
on a plan to pave all of the alleys in Town. It is anticipated that paving
will begin in the summer of 2008.
On November 17, 2007, the Town sponsored a records/paper
shredding event at the Community Center. All shredded paper was
recycled.
On January 5, 2008, the Town held an electronics recycling event in
the Community Center parking lot. Many residents dropped off their
unwanted electronic equipment for recycling.
Page 15 of 18
Goal 8. To promote commercial development and business vitality in Fountain
Hills, to meet consumer needs.
Responsibility Agent: Kate Zanon, Interim Town Manager
Percent complete: 50%
Objective 8.1. To implement the business retention program by May 1, 2007.
A business retention program was implemented at the end of FY06/07. The
Town chose to partner with the State APS program. This program uses a
model designed by E-Synchronist that includes consistent survey style, a data
entry program and the ability to query for common community benefits or
concerns. Both Kate Zanon and Susan Trocki have been trained in the
E-Synchronist Program.
Objective 8.2. To reveal common issues affecting business success by
administering 10 business retention surveys by December 31, 2007.
Six local business interviews of approximately two hours each have been
completed. While this program continues to set up formal interviews,
approximately only one business a month has been met with in this format
even though 17 businesses were contacted and 11 interviews scheduled.
The program was reviewed in November and it was determined that while the
scheduled interview approach would continue, a less time intensive
alternative may also be effective as a second option for the program. As a
result, the Interim Town Manager along with Councilmember Archambault
spent approximately four hours on Laser Drive meeting with 18 businesses in
that part of Town. We toured the facilities as well as discussed past, present
and future business needs. As a result of the visit, Code Enforcement has
been working to resolve some outdoor storage issues and we have been
working to change the route in MapQuest into the area. Concerns from the
formal interviews include alley paving, (we are looking into reducing the time-
line for this programs), the Saguaro frontage road, and strengthening the
downtown business community.
Objective 8.3. To determine the Town’s top five retail gaps, and contact businesses
that might fill them, by December 31, 2007.
The Interim Town Manager has been in the process of researching business
locating needs. Businesses evaluate a variety of factors when determining
GOAL 8 GOAL 8
Page 16 of 18
where to locate, such as population, average annual income, parking
availability, and traffic counts.
The Town’s top five retail gaps we have been looking at are children’s wear,
men’s wear, electronics, books and sporting goods. We have been working
with developers in the Town to communicate these business needs. These
businesses needs have also been given to the development team in escrow
on the south side of the Avenue of the Fountains as well as other Town
developers. In the second half of FY07/08 we will have another business
gaps report created to determine if there have been any changes in Town
business needs since the report ran late in 2006. The Town is a member of
the Business Vitality Committee and one of the sub-committees of this group
will be also working to encourage business that fills Town retail gaps.
Objective 8.4. To update the Town’s General Plan to include current economic
development elements by June 30, 2008.
The Assistant to the Town Manager has worked closely with the Planning and
Zoning Director in drafting the General Plan Update request for proposals
(RFP) as well as selecting the firm. The contract to begin this update was
approved in September. Throughout the general plan update process
economic development will be playing a role.
Objective 8.5. To develop an economic development plan for the 13-acre parcel on
the south of the Avenue; to present the plan to Council by June, 2008.
The south side of the Avenue of the Fountains has been in escrow since April
2007. Economic development has been working with the potential
development team as an ombudsman for the Town. A Town team was
assembled in May to meet with the developers that included planning,
economic development and the Manager’s office. This team met with the
developers nine times between May and September providing feedback and
guidance on the Town development process. In September, the Town team
grew to include the Town Attorney and two members of the Council.
In December 2007, the Town Council initiated rezoning the property as well
as language change to the Town Center Commercial District zoning.
Planning, economic development and management staff drafted the changes
and has consulted with the potential development team throughout the
process.
The Town team created a standing weekly meeting with the potential
development team in early December of 2007 to discuss the project, the
zoning changes and provide overall assistance the during the due diligence
period.
Page 17 of 18
Objective 8.6. To maintain a collaborative partnership with the Chamber in
supporting the implementation of the Chamber’s Fountain Hills Business Vitality
Plan; ongoing through fiscal year 07-08.
The Town supports the efforts of the Chamber of Commerce in a variety of
ways. The Interim Town Manage sits on the Business Vitality Committee.
The Town has made presentations at the meetings on the Town’s role in
supporting development of downtown Fountain Hills. Town participants have
attended five Business Vitality Committee meetings so far this year. The
Business Vitality Committee has an executive group as well as three sub-
committees that were formed at the end of this quarter. A member of the
Town team sits on all four of these committees.
The Interim Town Manager also sits on the Chamber Tourism Bureau and
has worked to bring the local hotels to these monthly meetings. The Strategic
Planning Advisory Commission has also been working on this collaborative
effort as the Chair, Mike Tyler, is also a member of the Business Vitality team.
Page 18 of 18
During the second quarter of the year, Town staff made significant progress toward
accomplishing Council’s goals for FY2007-08.
E:\My Documents\Word\Council\Reports to Council\Goals 2007-08\2nd Quarter Report on Goals 011708.doc
SUMMARY