HomeMy WebLinkAbout2017.1017.TCRM.MinutesTOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR SESSION OF THE
FOUNTAIN HILLS TOWN COUNCIL
OCTOBER 17, 2017
CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Kavanagh called the meeting to order at 5:33 p.m. in the Fountain Hills Town Hall Council Chambers.
INVOCATION — Paster Rod Warembourg, Desert Creek Fellowship Church
ROLL CALL - Present for roll call were the following members of the Town Council: Mayor Linda Kavanagh,
Vice Mayor Alan Magazine, Councilmember Cecil Yates, Councilmember Dennis Brown, Councilmember Art
Tolis and Councilmember Leger. Town Manager Grady E. Miller, Interim Town Attorney Fredda Bisman and
Town Clerk Bevelyn Bender were also present.
Councilmember Nick DePorter did not attend the meeting.
MAYOR'S REPORT
None.
SCHEDULED PUBLIC APPREARANCES/PRESENTATIONS
i) MAYOR KAVANAGH AND/OR COUNCIL MAY REVIEW RECENT EVENTS ATTENDED
RELATING TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT.
Neither Mayor Kavanagh nor Council reported on any activities.
ii) SEMI-ANNUAL UPDATE BY MARICOPA COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE CAPTAIN HANK
BRANDIMARTE.
Mayor Kavanagh introduced Captain Hank Brandimarte who presented an overview of current activities in
Fountain Hills through a PowerPoint presentation (available on-line or in the office of the Town Clerk).
Chief Brandimarte acknowledged key Sherriff s Department members who were also in attendance; he
reported current Fountain Hills office staffing levels, which included 36 sub -station employees in addition to
other resources that where available, if needed within the Sherriff s Department.
Chief Brandimarte listed and explained current Fountain Hills Sherriff Department's community involvement
and presented a brake -down on Fountain Hills' citizen initiated calls for service and pointed out these calls
were in addition to officers' regular patrol duties. Chief Brandimarte maintained that traffic enforcement in
Fountain Hills was an issue, along with a high number of identity theft cases reported.
Chief Brandimarte presented a graph containing the total reports written by deputies by year, with another
slide addressing policing activities and their outcomes and maintained these numbers showed the increase in
action taken by the Sherriff s Department in the 2017 projection.
Chief Brandimarte reported that new traffic speeding equipment for data collection was purchased recently by
the Town and explained how the trailer would provide information to assess the needs in Fountain Hills. Chief
Brandimarte updated Council on the current major investigated cases active and closed in Fountain Hills.
Mayor Kavanagh thanked Chief Brandimarte for his presentation and stated that he had answered questions
received from citizens regarding activities within the Sherriff s Department. Mayor Kavanagh asked how
issuance of a warning was determined by deputies and Chief Brandimarte replied that each deputy determined
what was acceptable and used a little leeway in their decisions. Chief Brandimarte explained that everyone
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stopped for a violation would received a form verifying the Deputy's name for the person's information and
would also help with data collection and stressed the form issued was a requirement by Federal Court order.
Mayor Kavanagh asked how repeat violations from an individual was handled and Chief Brandimarte
answered that the past information would be seen by the Deputy and more than likely the individual would be
issued a ticket for a repeated offense.
Councilmember Yates requested Captain Brandimarte share crime prevention tips for citizens and Captain
Brandimarte suggested that everyone watch out for each other, and if citizens see a strange occurrence, contact
their office at anytime to follow-up. He suggested citizens secure their homes and property as well as not
share their personal information. Mayor Kavanagh asked how citizens should make that call and Chief
Brandimarte requested they call 602-876-1011 or 896-1030, unless it was an emergency, then call 9-1-1.
Vice Mayor Magazine complimented Captain Brandimarte and his staff for the progress made and shown in
the numbers of incidents in Fountain Hills and congratulated everyone on staff.
Councilmember Leger also complimented all members of the Sherriff's Department for their extraordinary job
and for forwarding information on Fountain Hills incidents to the Town Manager and Councilmembers to keep
them informed and updated on incidents that happen. He said this was useful when speaking to citizens.
Councilmember Leger asked about the apparent increase in suicides recently and Captain Brandimarte noted it
appeared to be due to the state of the world. Councilmember Leger requested the Town through a possible
P.I.O. and media services as well as Channel 11 reach out to citizens who maybe in need of resources.
Councilmember Brown thanked the Sherriff's Department for the great information.
Town Manager Miller maintained the Town tax payers were receiving a lot for their tax money and
acknowledge MCSO Executive Chief Matt Giordano who was present to support Captain Brandimarte along
with Deputy Fisher. Mayor Kavanagh expressed her appreciation for all their work they do for the citizens of
Fountain Hills.
Councilmember Tolis added that the Sherriff's Department was doing a great job and asked Captain
Brandimarte to explain how "Text -a -Tip" worked. Captain Brandimarte responded that it was a downloadable
phone app that allows citizens to anonymously text information concerning possible crime activity to the
Sherriff's Department so they can follow-up. Captain Brandimarte stated that at some point the ability to
contact dispatchers directly maybe available.
Mayor Kavanagh acknowledged the Fountain Hills School's Resource Officer Deputy Michael Brooks stating
that he presented at the last Fountain Hills Coalition gathering; she mentioned the positive feedback received
regarding Deputy Brooks involvement with the school.
Mayor Kavanagh thanked Captain Brandimarte for his presentation.
CALL TO THE PUBLIC
Mayor Kavanagh asked if there were any speaker cards and Town Clerk Bender answered none had been received.
CONSENT AGENDA
AGENDA ITEM #1- CONSIDERATION OF APPROVING A SPECIAL EVENT LIQUOR LICENSE
APPLICATION FOR THE FOUNTAIN HILLS THEATER (SUZU HENDERSON), FOR A FUNDRAISER
TO BEHELD AT THE FOUNTAIN HILLS THEATER, LOCATED AT 11445 N. SAGUARO BOULEVARD,
FOUNTAIN HILLS, AZ, FROM 5:00 PM TO 10:00 PM ON THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2017.
AGENDA ITEM #2 - CONSIDERATION OF APPROVING A SPECIAL EVENT LIQUOR LICENSE
APPLICATION FOR THE WOMEN IN PARTNERSHIP (DEBRA BILOSKIRKA), TO BE HELD IN
CONJUNCTION WITH THE ANNUAL FOUNTAIN HILLS ART FESTIVAL, SCHEDULED FOR
NOVEMBER 10 - 12, 2017, FROM 10:00 AM TO 7:00 PM. LIQUOR SALES WILL BE RESTRICTED TO N.
VERDE RIVER DRIVE WITHIN THE FESTIVAL LAYOUT.
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AGENDA ITEM #3 - CONSIDERATION OF APPROVING A SPECIAL EVENT LIQUOR LICENSE
APPLICATION FOR THE VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS POST (VFW) 7507 BORIS BILOSKIRKA),
TO BE HELD IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE ANNUAL FOUNTAIN HILLS ART FESTIVAL,
SCHEDULED FOR NOVEMBER 10 - 12, 2017, FROM 10:00 AM TO 7:00 PM. LIQUOR SALES WILL BE
RESTRICTED TO SAGUARO BOULEVARD WITHIN THE FESTIVAL LAYOUT.
AGENDA ITEM #4 - CONSIDERATION OF APPROVING A SPECIAL EVENT LIQUOR LICENSE
APPLICATION FOR THE AMERICAN LEGION POST 58 (RANDOLPH SHAW), TO BE HELD IN
CONJUNCTION WITH THE ANNUAL FOUNTAIN HILLS ART FESTIVAL, SCHEDULED FOR
NOVEMBER 10 - 12, 2017, FROM 10:00 AM TO 7:00 PM. LIQUOR SALES WILL BE RESTRICTED TO
16837 EAST PARKVIEW AVENUE, FOUNTAIN HILLS, ARIZONA.
AGENDA ITEM #5 - CONSIDERATION OF APPROVING THE FIRST AMENDMENT TO
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT C2017-086 WITH AECOM TECHNICAL SERVICES, INC., IN
THE AMOUNT OF $49,799.00, FOR BUS SHELTER FINAL DESIGN SERVICES.
AGENDA ITEM #6 - CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION 2017-40 APPROVING AN
INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT WITH THE SALT RIVER PIMA INDIAN COMMUNITY,
RELATING TO PROPOSITION 202 FUNDING.
AGENDA ITEM #7 - CONSIDERATION OF APPROVING LINKING AUTHORIZATION (#C2018-53)
WITH THE CITY OF TUCSON TO ALLOW THE TOWN TO UTILIZE TUCSON'S PROCUREMENT
CARD PROGRAM.
AGENDA ITEM #8 - CONSIDERATION OF APPROVING ORDINANCE 17-12 RELATING TO
SCRIVENER'S ERRORS CONTAINED IN THE CANYON -SIDE LOTS ORDINANCE 17-08, WHICH WAS
APPROVED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL ON SEPTEMBER 5, 2017. CASE #Z2017-06
Councilmember Yates MOVED to approve the Consent Agenda as listed and Vice Mayor Magazine SECONDED the
motion.
A roll call vote was taken with the following results:
Vice Mayor Magazine
Aye
Councilmember Leger
Aye
Councilmember Tolis
Aye
Councilmember Yates
Aye
Councilmember Brown
Aye
Mayor Kavanagh
Aye
The motion CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY (6-0), by those present.
REGULAR AGENDA
Mayor Kavanagh announced that agenda item #10 was postponed at the requested of the Homeowners' Association.
AGENDA ITEM #9 - DISCUSSION WITH POSSIBLE DIRECTION TO STAFF REGARDING THE OPEN
VS.CLOSED STATUS OF THE TECHNOLOGY DRIVE GATE.
Mr. Miller gave a brief statement on the proposed removal of the Technology Drive gate and pointed out that on
March 2, 2017, Council directed staff to prepare a traffic count and collect information for 90 days; 45+ days with the
gate closed, and another 45+ days with the gate opened. Mr. Miller pointed out that Council had also received aerials
showing the Target Plaza area roads before and after development. Mr. Miller introduced Town Engineer Randy
Harrel, who reviewed the information contained in the PowerPoint presentation (available on line or in the office of the
Town Clerk).
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Mr. Harrel presented and discussed the following PowerPoint slides and information contained in the staff report:
Mailings area map
Hourly traffic distribution
Total traffic volume (ADT) vs. date Friday (peak traffic day)
Technology Drive gate study daily traffic flow — Saguaro Boulevard (east of Technology Drive)
Technology Drive gate study daily traffic flow alley (west of Technology Drive)
Technology Drive gate study daily traffic flow Technology Drive (north gate)
Technology Drive gate study heavy truck volume — Summary table by day of week
Friday peak hour (vph)
Road standards table
Fountain Hills "Times" newspaper article dated July 5, 2017
Technology Drive gate study 2017 (see printed copy)
Vicinity map
Slide of the recommended traffic count location
Hourly traffic distribution graph (average Friday — peak traffic day of week)
Total traffic volume (ADT) vs. date graph - Friday (peak traffic day)
Technology Drive gate study daily traffic flow alley graph (west of Technology Drive
Friday peak hour (vph) on Saguaro Boulevard, Technology Drive and the alley with Friday ADT -VPD
(percentage of design max volume for Saguaro Boulevard, Technology Drive and the alley
Aerials of gate area — two slides
Business Park access sign plan
Mr. Harrel noted that overnight traffic volume between the hours of 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. showed very little traffic
counted with the gate opened or closed.
Mr. Harrel discussed a letter received by the Town from Dan Diggins, President of the Mirage Cove Homeowners'
Association expressing area residents desire to hold the Council to its commitment to keep the Technology Drive gate
closed. Mr. Harrel also reviewed responses received from various members of the community expressing their opinion
along with a petition from businesses located on Technology Drive acknowledging that the gate at Saguaro Boulevard
and Technology Drive being closed had not hurt their business.
Mr. Harrel asked Council for questions.
Councilmember Leger asked how an alley was determined and Mr. Harrel replied that this particular alley was showed
on the plat map as an alley and was slightly smaller than the Town's standard street width and similar to the Town's
hillside road width. Mr. Harrel added that the alley was paved and had curbs. Councilmember Leger asked if the alley
was 28'; Mr. Harrel responded yes, adding that the alley was measured from the backside of curb.
Councilmember Leger requested Mr. Harrel to bring up the slide on the aerial photo that showed the before and after
the Target Center's construction. He stated he wanted to put the issues to bed once and for all. He indicated that it
was important to hear the history discussed involving the previous Council's decision.
Vice Mayor Magazine stated that he had taken photographs of the alley site recently to share with Councilmembers
and may assist them in their discussion.
Mayor Kavanagh asked if traffic counts could single out cars from trucks and Mr. Harrel responded the tests could tell
how many axles a truck had and would also count motorcycles. Mr. Harrel pointed out that the traffic showed no
significant change.
Mr. Harrel brought up the aerial slide to address Councilmember Legers question and pointed to the alley area.
Councilmember Tolis discussed the streets residents used and how the gate affected them when they attempted to use
the alley to reach Saguaro Boulevard.
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Mr. Harrel brought up another slide that highlighted the gated area and Councilmember Leger asked if this slide was
prior to the Target Center and if so, he wanted to know which streets were available before their abandonment behind
the Target Center and stressed the importance of the abandonment of Laser Drive and when the road was opened off of
Saguaro Boulevard. Mr. Harrel explained that a number of rights-a-ways were not paved at that time, but Laser Drive
had continued from Technology Drive to Saguaro Boulevard, prior to the Target Center. He continued that when the
Target Center was built a piece of Laser Drive was agreed to be rechanneled.
Councilmember Leger discussed when Laser Drive was abandoned and explained the Council's concern was that
traffic coming from Saguaro Boulevard would be directed into the residential area onto Technology Drive, in an
attempt to access Laser Drive. Councilmember Leger said he had spoken with businesses in the area and historically
there was a time Laser Drive was available for their direct route onto Saguaro Boulevard. Councilmember Brown
added he remembered that time and Councilmember Leger stressed this was the reason the gate was currently placed in
this location and through a stipulation by previous Council's direction.
Councilmember Leger asked Mr. Harrel to continue with the post Target Center. Mr. Harrel discussed the slide that
showed the Target Center and gate placement along with Laser Drive currently a drainage channel.
Councilmember Leger asked to discuss the Shea Boulevard gateway into the Industrial Center. Mr. Harrel answered
that the section from Technology Drive to the alley, north of Laser Drive, was constructed as part of the Target Center
along with the placement of a traffic signal at the intersection of Shea Boulevard and Technology Drive.
Councilmember Leger expressed the rational in the Development Agreement with the Target Center was contingent on
the Technology gate stopping drivers from going into the Industrial Center and intended to be a direct route to Laser
Drive and the Industrial Center while addressing issues from the business owners.
Councilmember Leger reiterated that the traffic count study showed the Salt River Project alley traffic count was 312
and that number exceeded the standard criteria of 300 vehicles. Councilmember Leger continued that in a 24 hour
period there would be one-half car over and asked Mr. Harrel's professional opinion if that number was of great
concern and Mr. Harrel replied that the overage was insignificant.
Councilmember Leger thanked Mr. Harrel for his presentation.
Councilmember Yates pointed out that he understood the gate stipulation was added by Council to address excessive
traffic and Mr. Harrel pointed out that the stipulation for the Target Center did not specify the reason, but he knew it
was not a staff recommendation, but by previous Council's direction.
Councilmember Yates asked if a 90 day study was sufficient amount of time for an accurate accounting and Mr. Harrel
answered that this study was extremely longer than other studies the Town had made. Councilmember Yates stated the
study revealed that generally 700 vehicle use per day and he understood street capacity was 1,000 making it below the
amount the street could handle and Mr. Harrel asserted that the term "design volume" would be a better engineering
term and that yes the traffic was well below the design volume.
Councilmember Yates asked if 800 cars per day was a high volume due to residential and commercial in the same area
and Mr. Harrel responded that the volume was well below and noted Fountain Hills had those numbers all over Town
and were not excessively high.
Councilmember Tolis felt the Technology Drive gate was likely stipulated to keep commercial trucks deliveries to the
Target Center from using the area for delivery trucks going in and out forcing the trucks onto Technology Drive and he
then asked if the Town currently had signage in place on Shea Boulevard and Saguaro Boulevard directing that "No
Commercial Trucks Allowed". Councilmember Leger said no such signage was in place on these boulevards.
Vice Mayor Magazine expressed that Council's emphasis appeared to be on the numbers, but he wished to make a
statement of facts and that citizens depended on agreements made to them by the Town and in this case citizens were
told they would be protected. Vice Mayor Magazine pointed out there would be a low number of citizens that would
have to go out of their way when driving. Vice Mayor Magazine wanted to keep faith with the Town's citizens and
noted that if there were a safety issue, he would look at the issue differently, but no accidents have been reported in
four years. Vice Mayor Magazine stated he would encourage the Council to support a previous Council's decision.
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Mayor Kavanagh asked how many cars vs. trucks were counted using the alley and she mentioned the homeowners'
association was concerned about the number of trucks involved and Mr. Harrel stated that the study found that the
truck traffic took the routes as previously used with the gate opened or if it were closed and added that some trucks
used the alley while others used Saguaro Boulevard and less using Technology Drive.
Mayor Kavanagh remarked that she was attempting to find a solution and was concerned that if the Technology Drive
gate remained closed, traffic would use the alley and would direct traffic further into the neighborhood. Mayor
Kavanagh expressed that signage directing "No Truck Traffic" could help with this issue. Mr. Harrel stated there
could be a detriment to those properties where trucks would make the turn, if the study showed trucks shifting.
Mayor Kavanagh asked Mr. Harrel if the gate remained closed, in his opinion, should the alley be signed for "No
Trucks Allowed" and Mr. Harrel explained that the signage could be installed, but only after looking at the Town Code
regarding Town truck routes.
Councilmember Brown explained his experiences when he visits his storage unit in the area for the last five years and
noted the lack of traffic and felt that citizens knew over time to enter the facility from Technology Drive and Shea
Boulevard. He also reported that traffic apparently did not travel Saguaro Boulevard, down the alley and then to Laser
Drive to access commercial buildings in the 15 -years or since the Target Center was added. Councilmember Brown
stated he weighed all issues and explained that he understood the citizens paid for the street and was built when the
community began, but he came to the conclusion that the gate should be left closed and uphold prior Council's promise
to the community that the gate would stay in place. Councilmember Brown agreed with Councilmember Leger and
Vice Mayor Magazine that hopefully this issue would finally be resolved and not brought up again in the future.
Councilmember Brown suggested installing a permanent wall.
Mayor Kavanagh stated she did not want to make the situation worse by the gate remaining closed and then trucks
used the alley traveling closer to the residential area. Mayor Kavanagh requested a solution to obstruct that alley route.
Mayor Kavanagh asked if Salt River Project vehicles entered into this street and Mr. Harrel replied that some did use
this route, when necessary.
Councilmember Leger agreed with Mayor Kavanagh that it was important to reach a permanent solution to closing the
gate and he suggested a possible creation of a cul-de-sac, as built on Laser Drive, along with adding signage.
Councilmember Leger pointed out the traffic study identified that few trucks used this route with delivery trucks
basically vans, which should not be an issue. Councilmember Leger stated the opinion that if the gate were to remain
open, it would again create a problem.
Councilmember Tolis requested a follow-up on signage. Director of Public Works Justin Weldy agreed to check out
signage in that area related to truck traffic. Councilmember Tolis asked if signage was found not to be in place, what
would be the process to install signage. Mr. Harrel replied the Town Code identified truck routes; trucks making local
deliveries were to drive truck routes until they reached their local delivery destination. Mr. Harrel stated that staff
could address Council's concerns by reviewing the Town's designated truck routes.
Mayor Kavanagh expressed that it was a good idea to place the appropriate signage on the street in an attempt to cover
any future issues and Mr. Harrel noted that signage would also make the issue enforceable.
Councilmember Brown MOVED to keep the Technology gate closed with the placement of "No Heavy Trucks" signs
installed onto the Saguaro Boulevard and off Shea Boulevard, and proposed investigating adding a cul-de- sac at the
intersection where Technology Drive currently enters to Saguaro Boulevard and Vice Mayor Magazine SECONDED
the motion.
Mayor Kavanagh asked for speaker cards and Ms. Bender stated eleven cards were received, five did not wish to speak
and six that wished to speak.
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*The citizens listed below did not wish to speak and were in opposition of opening the gate for the following
reasons: keep the gate closed and gate to stay closed as was promised 20 -years ago.
*Patricia DeSmit
*Andy Smith
*Carol Nielsen
*V. Middleton
*Steve Thomas
*The followinLy sneakers wished to sneak
Marianne Abrahamson, a Fountain Hills resident who lived in the Mirage Cove Homeowner's Association (HOA),
read a letter by request from Dan Diggins, President of the current Mirage Cove HOA, who was unable to attend the
meeting and asked his letter of opposition on the opening of the Technology gate be placed on record. Mr. Diggins
had expressed the importance of citizen's trust in their Town Council, as well as, they should expect the same from its
citizens. Ms. Abrahamson added the Technology gate had been closed for 15-18 years and was wondering why open
the gate now.
Sherman Abrahamson, a Fountain Hills resident who lived in the Mirage Cove HOA, expressed he also wanted a
finalize decision on the gate closure issue and for it to remain closed, once and for all. Mr. Abrahamson read
statements from citizen feedback he had received and who were involved in this issue and all were opposed to the gate
being opened. Mr. Abrahamson pointed out the gate was placed before the U -Haul business existed and was in
agreement at that time on its approval to be closed. Mr. Abrahamson said there were no good reasons for the Town to
abandon their prior commitment and stressed if the gate was removed, it would disrupt the community 24/7.
Pam Aguilu, a Fountain Hills resident spoke in support of removing the gate because of the businesses in that location
and explained that opening the gate would assist people who have storage units to access. Ms. Aguilu also pointed out
the residents who purchased in this area should have known of the commercial zoning nearby and accepted the
possibility of development in the future and prepared themselves for the change.
Phyliss Kern, a Fountain Hills resident and local realtor, spoke in favor of the removal of the Technology gate and
expressed that she had investigated and questioned just how many residents in the area would be affected by vehicle
lights, if the gate were to be opened. Ms. Kern mentioned that U -Haul was scared to attend Council meetings and
giving their opinions on this issue due to possible retaliation against them and their use of trucks. Ms. Kern discussed
the vacant 2-1/2 acres located across the street and felt it could be an asset for Fountain Hills if built out, but with the
gate closed could only cause a buyer problems. Ms. Kern stated that GPS directed people to the gated area, which
ultimately caused problems with large trucks attempting to turn around and enter elsewhere. Ms. Kern pointed out
line -of -sight issues when exiting the alley onto the regular street for commercial vehicles if the gate remained closed
and noted that the lane back of the Target Center was used regularly as an alley way to access Laser Drive and wonder
why that had not been acknowledged. Ms. Kern requested Council be business friendly.
Vice Mayor Magazine asked Ms. Kern if she lived in the area and Ms. Kern replied on Tombstone. Vice Mayor
Magazine asked if she had experienced any commercial traffic and Ms. Kern answered that approximately 12 years
ago the Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce met with the commercial business owners in the area and the business
owners had requested the gate be opened and more signage allowed. Ms. Kern pointed out that Mayor Schlum and
Councilmember Leger expressed at that time that nothing could be done. Vice Mayor Magazine asked where all the
supporters were for opening the gate. Ms. Kern responded that she felt the agenda item was poorly publicized.
Councilmember Leger requested to address Ms. Kern regarding her statement, as a point of order, to clarify that during
his correspondence with Ms. Kern, he had expressed to her that his main goal was to honor the prior commitment
made to the residents, and this statement was made on numerous occasions during their discussions regarding the gate
and he had stressed he was not involved in the meeting with 19 business owners along with Mayor Schlum. Ms. Kern
disagreed that Councilmember Leger was not involved. Councilmember Leger continued to explain that he was a
member of the Business Vitality Group who looked into issues such as the Technology gate open or closed question.
He added that the Task Force returned to the Business Vitality Executive Board and stressed the Executive Board
unanimously voted to keep the gate closed. Ms. Kern again disagreed with his recolection on his involvement.
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Councilmember Leger clarified his last correspondence with Ms. Kern and quoted a statement she wrote in a letter
"While driving past the gate this morning, my thought was how many of those people contributed to your campaign? "
Councilmember Leger responded that Ms. Kern could review his campaign records and she would see the number was
zero. Councilmember Leger asked Ms. Kern to stop making this accusation.
Mayor Kavanagh stopped the discussion and thanked Ms. Kern.
Frank Finkleman, a Fountain Hills resident who lived close to the gate, mentioned that he and John Kavanagh worked
on this issue during the time when U -Haul took over the storage units from the original owner and when U -Haul did
not have a permit to rent trucks. Mr. Finkleman stated that the issue on the gate had been decided long ago and should
not be questioned. He hoped it would never be discussed again. Mr. Finkelman also suggested placing a gate on the
alley to help solve the problem by separating the residential area from the industrial area, as other communities had
done.
Kelly Smith, a Fountain Hills resident and realtor, pointed out that he was speaking for a property owner in the
industrial area who was in favor of opening the Technology gate. Mr. Smith added that the person involved owned
2.75 acres of industrial land along with several businesses in the immediate area. Mr. Smith was in contact with the
owner recently when he requested his feedback on the gate issue. Mr. Smith mentioned that he had previously had an
office located in the Target Center and close to the rear ramp and maintained Ms. Kern was correct that people used
this alley ramp on a daily basis to link to Laser Drive.
Mayor Kavanagh asked for further discussion from Council.
Councilmember Leger questioned Kelly Smith regarding his client's suggestion for advocating to bring an entryway
off of Saguaro Boulevard to allow traffic into his property. Councilmember Leger noted the suggestion was made
prior to Mirage Cove development and suggested that upon development of the property this could be a viable solution
for entry. Mr. Smith stated there have been discussions on how to development the property whether industrial,
shopping center or storage units and the question was could there be access off of Saguaro Boulevard and mentioned
the primary frontage was located on Saguaro Boulevard with a small portion on Laser Drive.
Mayor Kavanagh asked for further questions and if not requested Councilmember Brown repeat his motion.
Councilmember Brown restated his motion that he MOVED to keep the gate closed, place "No Truck Traffic Access"
signage on Saguaro Boulevard off Shea and investigate the feasibility of creating a cul-de-sac to replace the gate at the
end of Technology Drive and Vice Mayor Magazine SECONDED the motion.
Mayor Kavanagh asked Mr. Harrel if Salt River Project could occasionally use the location with signage restricting
truck traffic and Mr. Harrel replied he would check into the issue.
Mr. Harrel pointed to information contained in the Council's packet and noted that the average trucks with three axles
or more on Saguaro Boulevard totaled 11 with gate opened and 11 with gate closed; the study showed alley traffic
totaled 4 with the gate opened and 4 with the gate closed and on Technology Drive with the gate open 1 was recorded,
with no change in the number of trucks.
Mayor Kavanagh thanked Mr. Harrel for the information and asked Council for a roll call vote.
A roll call vote was taken with the following results:
Councilmember Tolis
Aye
Councilmember Leger
Aye
Councilmember Yates
Aye
Vice Mayor Magazine
Aye
Councilmember Brown
Aye
Mayor Kavanagh
Aye
The motion CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY (6-0), by those present.
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AGENDA ITEM #10 - CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION 2017-25, ABANDONING WHATEVER
RIGHT, TITLE, OR INTEREST THE TOWN HAS IN THE CERTAIN GENERAL PUBLIC AND
PEDESTRIAN ACCESS EASEMENTS LOCATED IN TRACTS Al AND A2 (THE PRIVATE ROADWAY
TRACTS) OF THE DIAMANTE DEL LAGO PLAT, AS RECORDED IN BOOK 516, PAGE 17, RECORDS
OF MARICOPA COUNTY, ARIZONA, WITH STIPULATIONS. (EA 2017-03)
Mayor Kavanagh reiterated that the presentation, discussion and vote on agenda item #10, was postponed at the
request of the homeowners' association.
AGENDA ITEM #11 - CONSIDERATION OF COOPERATIVE PURCHASE AGREEMENT (C2017-050),
WITH ROSENBAUER SOUTH DAKOTA, LLC, FOR THE ACQUISITION OF A NEW 2017 ROSENBAUER
101' LADDER TRUCK IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $975,000, TO COVER THE COST OF THE
TRUCK PLUS THE TAX.
Mr. Miller stated the Fire Department was requesting a new ladder truck due to the aged 20 -year old truck currently in
service and explained measures staff would need to take to support the vehicle maintenance, since the company the
Town purchased from went out of business. Mr. Miller pointed out that Council requested staff to investigate different
alternatives to purchasing such as leasing a ladder truck and noted that after a review, staff found that the lease would
cost an additional $121,100.00 over seven years and it was apparent the Town used current ladder truck for at least 20
years. Mr. Miller added that staff recommended the purchase of a new ladder truck at the proposed cost and proceeded
to introduce Fire Chief Dave Ott and the Assistant Fire Chief Jason Payne who gave further information using a
PowerPoint Presentation (available on line or in the office of the Town Clerk).
Chief Ott reported the life span of a ladder truck was 15 years, but due to the lack of funding available in the Town's
Vehicle Replacement Fund allowance, the purchase had been pushed out an additional five -years.
Assistant Fire Chief Payne discussed the issues with the current ladder truck and listed the benefits of the proposed
aerial platform ladder; he showed pictures of the proposed fire truck. Assistant Chief Payne explained and compared a
lease option vs. own option. Chief Ott asked for Council's questions.
Councilmember Brown stated that the Fire Department deserved a new truck.
Mayor Kavanagh pointed out the safety aspects on the new truck and expressed her 100% support.
Councilmember Yates expressed his appreciation for the presentation and gave his support for the purchase.
Councilmember Brown asked if the Rosenbauer Company would deliver the ladder truck to Fountain Hills and Chief
Ott answered the company would drive the truck to Fountain Hills and Assistant Chief Payne added it would take 30-
45 days after notice to purchase to receive the truck and hopefully by Thanksgiving.
Councilmember Leger wanted to clarify that the funds to purchase would come from the Town's Vehicle Replacement
Fund and both Fire Chief's agreed that was correct.
Councilmember Leger asked about gas mileage on the new vehicle and Assistant Chief Payne replied 3.7 miles per
gallon (MPG) compared to the old truck at 1.2 MPG.
Vice Mayor Magazine asked about the 8.3% tax and where that tax rate came from and Finance Director Craig
Rudolphy answered that was South Dakota's tax rate.
Mayor Kavanagh asked if there were any speaker cards and Ms. Bender answered none had been received.
Councilmember Yates MOVED to approve Cooperative Purchase Agreement (C2017-050), with Rosenbauer South
Dakota, LLC, for the acquisition of a new 2017 Rosenbauer 101' ladder truck, in an amount not to exceed $975,000, to
cover the cost of the truck plus the tax and Councilmember Brown SECONDED the motion.
Mayor Kavanagh asked for further discussion.
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Councilmember Tolis asked about the difference between the invoice amount and the amount proposed and Chief Ott
explained that the truck was one that was already built and after a discussion with Finance Director Mr. Rudolphy,
staff decided to add additional funds as a cushion to cover any unforeseen costs.
Mayor Kavanagh asked for a vote.
The motion CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY (6-0), by those present.
AGENDA ITEM #12 - CONSIDERATION OF DONATING THE TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS' 1998
AMERICAN LAFRANCE LADDER TRUCK TO THE PORT ARANSAS FIRE DEPARTMENT TO
REPLACE THEIR LADDER TRUCK DAMAGED IN HURRICANE HARVEY.
Mr. Miller gave a brief history on the proposal and remarked that the current ladder truck has an approximate $20K to
$30K surplus value. Mr. Miller stated that the proposed donation action was in response to areas hit by the Hurricane
Harvey that did not have flood insurance. Since Port Aransas was a small community, staff felt the Town's old ladder
truck would serve well as a donation from the Town. Mr. Miller asked for Fire Chief Ott to continue with the
presentation.
Chief Ott reported that Port Aransas had a volunteer fire department of 24 members, created in the 1940's and the
population of their Town was less than 5K. Chief Ott shared photographs of the Port Aransas area that showed the
destruction they experience from Hurricane Harvey to the fire department and their equipment. He expressed that
support from Fountain Hill's citizens would greatly be appreciated in Port Aransas to help them start again and would
be an addition to other donated equipment. Chief Ott informed Council that Port Aransas would bring a flat bed truck
to Fountain Hills and transport the ladder truck back to their community in Texas and he also mentioned after speaking
to Public Works Director Weldy they had received his complete support for this donation as well. Chief Ott
commented that over 140 fire trucks and other fire apparatus were damaged throughout Texas.
Mayor Kavanagh expressed her support and opinion this would be a wonderful gift from all the citizens in Fountain
Hills.
Vice Mayor Magazine also expressed his support and reminisced about his own Red -Cross experience after hurricane
Katrina.
Councilmember Leger MOVED to approve donating the Town of Fountain Hills' 1998 American LaFrance ladder
truck to the Port Aransas Fire Department and authorize the Town Manager to take all actions necessary to ensure the
proper donation, including coordinating efforts with the Texas A&M Forestry Service and Vice Mayor Magazine
SECONDED the motion, which CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY (6-0), by those present.
AGENDA ITEM #13 — COUNCIL DISCUSSION/DIRECTION TO THE TOWN MANAGER.
None.
AGENDA ITEM #14 — SUMMARY OF COUNCIL REQUESTS AND REPORT ON RECENT ACTIVITES
BY THE MAYOR, INDIVIDUAL COUNCILMEMBERS, AND THE TOWN MANAGER.
None.
AGENDA ITEM #15 — ADJOURNMENT
Councilmember Yates MOVED to adjourn the meeting and Councilmember Brown SECONDED the motion, which
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY (6-0), by those present. The Regular Session adjourned at 7:46 p.m.
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TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
:S
ATTEST AND
PREPARED BY:
Bevelyn J. Bender, Town Clerk
CERTIFICATION
Linda M. Kavanagh, Mayor
I hereby certify that the foregoing minutes are a true and correct copy of the minutes of the Regular Session held by the
Town Council of Fountain Hills in the Town Hall Council Chambers on the 17th day of October, 2017. I further certify
that the meeting was duly called and that a quorum was present.
DATED this 5th day of December, 2017.
Bevelyn J. Bender, Town Clerk
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