January 6, 2015 City Commission Meeting

Announcements

• The City Commissioners' planning retreat is scheduled for 📅 January 23rd and 24th. Commissioners were asked to submit agenda items for discussion, particularly concerning prioritizing projects for upcoming budget planning.
• This was City Manager Brian McDougall's last meeting. Commissioners and a citizen offered commendations for his six years of service and leadership, noting the city's progress under his tenure. He was presented with a certificate and plaque of appreciation.

Key Decisions & Votes

• Demolition Order Upheld for 645 North Broadway: The Council denied the appeal by property owner Timothy Thomas regarding an administrative order to demolish the residential structure at 645 North Broadway. The property was deemed dilapidated, and despite Mr. Thomas's request for more time to address title issues and make repairs, staff and commissioners noted significant structural concerns that would likely cost more to repair than the property's value.
• Support for Senior Multi-Family Housing Development (Shawnee Estates): The Council approved a resolution of support for Zimmerman Properties LLC to construct a new 48-unit senior multi-family housing development (Shawnee Estates). This resolution indicates favorable consideration for a state tax credit award. The development will be 100% income-restricted for 40 years, serving residents aged 62 and older, with rents ranging from $500-$585.
• Support for Family Multi-Family Housing Development (Shawnee Park Apartments): The Council approved a resolution of support for Zimmerman Properties LLC to construct a new 60-unit family multi-family housing development (Shawnee Park Apartments). This resolution also indicates favorable consideration for a state tax credit award. This development will be 100% income-restricted for 40 years, with rents ranging from $500-$675.
• Snow and Ice Removal Contracts Awarded: The Council approved awarding contracts to two vendors for snow and ice removal assistance. This allows the city to secure external help during significant weather events under the city manager's emergency spending authority, and helps expedite potential federal disaster declarations for cost recovery.
• Legal Counsel Authorized for Appeal: Following an executive session, the Council authorized legal counsel to file an appeal from a district court order in the case of City of Shawnee versus International Union of Police Associations Local #3 and John Arnett.

Financial Matters

• Tax Credit Awards for Housing Developments:
  • Zimmerman Properties LLC sought resolutions of support for state tax credit awards for two new multi-family housing developments: Shawnee Estates (48-unit senior) and Shawnee Park Apartments (60-unit family).
  • These tax credits are not abatements on property or sales tax affecting the city but help developers fund projects in exchange for making units affordable to specific income levels for 40 years.
  • Market studies presented indicated sufficient demand within Shawnee for both types of housing, with an estimated 1600 qualified senior renters and 2200 qualified family renters currently in the community.
  • Commissioners discussed concerns about the proliferation of 100% income-restricted housing and its potential impact on the city's overall income level, suggesting future planning sessions to establish guidelines for such projects.
• Snow and Ice Removal Bids: Two vendors submitted proposals for snow and ice removal services. Contracts were awarded to both, to be utilized on an as-needed basis, with costs falling under the city manager's emergency spending authority (up to $25,000 per event).
• City Manager Executive Search Firms: Five firms submitted proposals for the executive search for a new city manager, with costs ranging from $16,500 (plus expenses) to $35,000 (all-inclusive). The Council deferred action and referred the proposals to a committee for review and further consideration.
• Shawnee Pool Parking Project Bids: Three bids were received for the Shawnee Pool Parking Project (PW-14-01), ranging from $375,660.25 to $464,730.00. The Council deferred action on these bids to the next meeting to allow staff to gather additional budget information.

Public Comments

• One citizen addressed the Council during the public comments section, expressing appreciation for outgoing City Manager Brian McDougall's contributions to the city's progress and offering support for the interim city manager, Justin.

Agenda Summary Table