Meeting Notes August 13, 2019
Willoughby City Council Meeting Summary Notes
August 13, 2019
Tonight's Council Meeting was quite important on several fronts. Committee meetings took place to discuss
• Chagrin River and East Branch Corridor Restoration and Preservation Project
• City-Owned Lots
• Waste Removal/Recycling Bids
• There was also legislation dealing with Storm sewer replacement projects at E 364th, E 365th, and Harvard Drive.
• Council also addressed a five-year contract for residential, municipal curbside solid waste, recyclable and yard waste collection and disposal in the City. GOOD NEWS, eligible Condo Associations may be included.
o More info on this later.
We also recognized the Willoughby Fire Department for their 125 years of service and protection to the residents of the City of Willoughby.
PRIOR TO THE REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
SPECIAL MEETING/EXECUTIVE SESSION
None
COMMITTEE OF THE FULL
The purpose of the Committee of Full meeting is to discuss:
• Chagrin River and East Branch Corridor Restoration and Preservation Project
The Chagrin River and East Branch Proposed Project would:
Address erosion concerns
Which in turn causes instability along the river, loss of land and its use degrades the water quality and reduces the quality of the water for habitat.
Actions to take place if this Plan is implemented:
o Remove former water intake structures (East Branch)
o Channel realignment (East Branch)
o Former channel restored to oxbow wetland (East Branch)
o Bioengineered bank
stabilization
o Riparian revegetation
o Include dam remnant removal on Chagrin River
o Expand into larger corridor restoration/protection project
o Invasive plant species management
• Anticipated Project Outcomes:
• Restore and protect Chagrin River and East Branch corridors
• Increased public access to the river and safer access around the dam
• Enhance current and future connectivity to other protected areas in the Chagrin River corridor
• First step in the Magic Mile for trail
corridor development
This would be a walking path from Daniels Park to Lake Erie along the river.
• May help leverage future grant funds
NOW THE COSTS!!!!!
• Costs being determined through appraisals and budget development
• Anticipated total project cost:
$2,416,100 - $2,682,500
• WRRSP does not require matching funds from the applicant
• The applicant does not need to front expenses
• This Plan if accepted would cost the City no funds
THE PARTNERS ON THIS PLAN
• City of Willoughby
• Chagrin River Watershed Partners
• Western Reserve Land Conservancy
• Andrews Osborne Academy
• Lake Metroparks
• Lake Stormwater Management Department
• Many other local partners
For the record, there was a brief discussion of "city-owned" properties. The time has come for the City to make decisions as to what properties that want to continue to hold and those they feel would be wise to sell.
More on this soon. Some of the cities properties “are in this proposed” River Restoration Plan. Specifically near Todd Field and Daniels Park.
SERVICE COMMITTEE MEETING
Chris Woodin, Dan Anderson, John Tomaselli
The purpose of the Service Committee meeting is to discuss:
• Waste Removal/Recycling Bids
The discussion centered on the bids that were received on a 5-year contract. The best bid for the City and its residents came in from Republic Services. The cost for 2020 will be very very close to what is paid now for the service. The cost will incrementally increase to 2024. From my info that will be about a dollar $ increase each year.
The service will be similar to the past:
Weekly Trash
Weekly Yard Waste
Bi-weekly recycling
Total Household Trash removal- extra charge
You will need to use a TOTE for your primary trash (there will be automatic pick up of the totes)
96 Gallon or 64 Gallon
You can add “extra” trash along with the tote with some limitations in quantity.
More details on this when all the T’s are crossed and the I’s are dotted.
NOTE: for the first time in a long time we can now include Condominium Associations that comply with the requirements.
• Are the streets accessible to the Automatic Truck and the Auto Tote Process
o There will be some Developments that the Large Auto Pick-Up trucks “cannot” get into and navigate properly to use the automatic pick-up method.
o Associations can ask to be assessed for inclusion
• Does the Association use Curbside Pickup NOW
o NO DUMPSTERS WILL BE USED
• THE INCLUSION OF THOSE CONDO ASSOCIATIONS AND PRIVATE DEVELOPMENTS THAT MEET THE "HAULER WILL determine THE REQUIREMENTS."
• Condo Associations and Private Developments that, in the past, were not able to participate will have two years to enter the Plan if they choose. The contract is for five years so if you enter in year two, you then must stay in the Plan until the end of the 5-year contract.
o This will all need to be discussed by the Boards of these Associations to see if they COST and the SERVICE provided is in their best interest.
LEGISLATIVE CAUCUS
The general purpose of the Legislative Caucus meeting is to review and discuss the legislation on the Regular Council. More on the legislation covered later in this summary.
AGENDA
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
August 13, 2019
ROLL CALL
PRAYER AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF MINUTES- Regular Council Meeting of July 9, 2019
STANDING AND REGULAR COMMITTEE REPORTS
No major reports
CORRESPONDENCE
No correspondence
PUBLIC PORTION
• Representatives for the DTW Bar All AXS spoke with concerns regarding their liquor license. They heard that Council is denying them their liquor license. This was stated to not be true, by the Administration. The representative also noted that the Administration was not providing the opportunity to discuss the issue or issues of concern. Clarification was presented that the Administration is willing to meet with the owner/s to discuss the topic. The meeting will take place on Thursday. The concern is that All AXS has a conditional use permit with specific conditions. There needs to be a discussion to assure they are compliant with those conditions.
• A resident spoke sharing a concern with what she sees as "drug trafficking." She has young children and is asking for help to keep this activity out of the area in which she resides. Police Chief Beckwith assured her that he is aware of this, but termination of this takes planning and time!. Council praised this resident for her diligence and time coming to City Council to share and ask for help.
• Questions on the missing traffic signal at Park and Euclid. The “special” poles are due in the first part of September and will be installed at that time.
• Questions on the Citizens Bank property that they currently occupy @ 38115 Euclid Ave. They soon will be moving to their new home at the corner of Erie and Mentor Ave. Concerns were expressed as to what will happen with the Euclid Ave. Property. The Administration shared they still have no final answers to that question. Citizen Bank will move into their new building in October.
• Several compliments were expressed regarding the opening of the new Senior Center at Union Village.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
ORDINANCE NO. 2019-74 -Tabled PASSED
This Ordinance was removed from the table by a vote
An ordinance accepting the final plat for Melrose Farms Subdivision, Phase 5, and declaring an emergency.
Loreto Venture Group Ill, the developer of Melrose Farms Subdivision, has filed the Final Plat of Melrose Farms Subdivision, Phase 5 ("Final Plat") with the Planning Commission of the City of Willoughby, Ohio, and has requested approval thereof; and
The Planning Commission and the City Engineer have reviewed and approved the Final Plat and the City Engineer has further certified said approval and estimated the cost of the improvements to Council, which estimate amounts to $347,000; and
The developer has offered certain streets, alleys, public grounds, and utility easements for dedication to public use, as shown and described on the Final Plat;
Before this legislation was addressed, the city engineer prepared a study that was quite comprehensive to address the concerns of the resident in this development.
Two major concerns they voiced were
• Storm-water flooding
• The connection of the Gold Rush Cul-de-sac to Lost Nation Road
There is a mutual agreement between the City, CT Consultants, and the developer to address several issues related to storm-water flooding. Councilman John Tomaselli addressed the residents after the meeting to share with them what those plans were. This was seen as a very positive action by the residents.
Regarding the Cul-de-sac connection, that was approved by Planning Commission years ago, and the connection will take place. This is also supported by our safety services for quick access in the case of an emergency.
NEW BUSINESS
RESOLUTION NO. 2019-75 PASSED
A resolution approving EAS #6-5-19 for the demolition of the existing buildings and construction of two (2) new buildings located at 31581 Euclid Avenue (Cubesmart Self Storage).
SECTION 1. That the application submitted by Norman A. Kotoch, Owner, for demolition of the existing buildings and construction of two (2) new buildings located at 31581 Euclid Avenue (Cube Smart Self Storage) is approved, and the Council hereby determines that, based on environmental considerations, such project shall be allowed to commence or be constructed subject to compliance with all applicable ordinances and regulations of the City of Willoughby and statutes of the State of Ohio.
These are seen as “positive” improvements to this business on Euclid Avenue
RESOLUTION NO. 20.1 9-76 PASSED
A resolution approving EAS #8-6-19 for construction of additions and interior renovations to the existing buildings located at 36851 Ridge Road (Breckenridge Retirement Community).
SECTION 1. That the application submitted by Michael J. Hughes, Project Manager, for construction of additions and interior renovations to the existing buildings located at 36851 Ridge Road (Breckenridge Retirement Community) is approved, and the Council hereby determines that, based on environmental considerations, such project shall be allowed to commence or be constructed subject to compliance with all applicable ordinances and regulations of the City of Willoughby and statutes of the State of Ohio.
RESOLUTION NO. 2019-77 PASSED
A resolution approving EAS #9-6-19 for conversion of a garage to kitchen space, construction of a garage, and an addition to the existing patio at 37333 Euclid Avenue (Panini's Bar and Grill).
SECTION 1. That the application submitted by Chris Mccrone, Partner/Mgr., for conversion of a garage to kitchen space, construction of a garage, and an addition to the existing patio at 37333 Euclid Avenue (Panini's Bar and Grill) is approved, and the Council hereby determines that, based on environmental considerations, such project shall be allowed to commence or be constructed subject to compliance with all applicable ordinances and regulations of the City of Willoughby and statutes of the State of Ohio.
Concerns with excessive noise and excessive lighting were addressed.
There will be NO INCREASE in the number of outside speakers.
No additional floodlights.
RESOLUTION NO. 2019-78 PASSED
A resolution approving the editing and inclusion of certain Ordinance as parts of the various component codes of the Codified Ordinances of the City of Willoughby, Ohio, and declaring an emergency.
SECTION 1. That the editing, arrangement and numbering of ordinances enacted by the Council of the City of Willoughby from June 12, 2018 through May 21, 2019, as listed in the Comparative Section Table, are hereby approved and adopted as printed in the 2019 Replacement Pages to the City's Codified Ordinances so as to achieve uniformity of style and classification; said replacement pages are on file in the office of the Clerk of Council.
SECTION 2. That the following sections of the Traffic and General Offenses Codes, as amended, are hereby approved and adopted as amended or enacted so as to conform to enactments of the Ohio General Assembly.
This resolution deals with the cities responsibility to be consistent with the Ohio General Assembly changes regarding these ordinances. Our ordinances must be consistent with the state statutes.
RESOLUTION NO. 2019-79 PASSED
A resolution authorizing the Mayor to apply to the Ohio EPA (OEPA) through the Water Resource Restoration Sponsor Program (WRRSP) for the purpose of acquiring financial assistance for the Chagrin River and East Branch Corridor Restoration and Preservation Project, and declaring an emergency.
The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA), through the Water Resource Restoration Sponsor Program (WRRSP), administers financial assistance to fund preservation and restoration of the state's water resources; and
WHEREAS, the City of Willoughby desires to apply for financial assistance through the Water Resource Restoration Sponsor Program (WRRSP) to be used for the Chagrin River and East Branch Corridor Restoration and Preservation Project;
SECTION 1. That the Mayor is hereby authorized to prepare and submit an application on behalf of the City of Willoughby to the Water Resource Restoration Sponsor Program (WRRSP) for the purpose of acquiring financial assistance in an amount not to exceed
$2,682,500 for the Chagrin River and East Branch Corridor Restoration and Preservation Project; such application substantially in the form now on file in the office of the Service Director.
SECTION 2. That the Mayor is further authorized to execute any and all additional documents and forms necessary to properly secure such financial assistance and administer and implement the grant.
SECTION 3. That the Council and Administration of the City of Willoughby hereby request the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA), through the Water Resource Restoration Sponsor Program (WRRSP), to consider and fund its application for said grant, and upon the award and acceptance of the subject grant, the City does agree to obligate funds required to satisfactorily complete the proposed project and become eligible for reimbursement under the terms of the WRRSP.
*
This topic was addressed earlier in this document.
RESOLUTION NO. 2019-80 PASSED
A resolution authorizing the Mayor to enter into a contract with D.B. Bentley, Inc. in the amount of $2,227,000 for implementation of the E. 364th, E. 355tn, and Harvard Drive Storm Sewer Project Replacement Project.
On the 2nd day of August, 2019, bids were received by the City Engineer for the
E. 364th , E. 365t,h and Harvard Drive Storm Sewer Replacement Project; and
WHEREAS, the bid received from D.S. Bentley, Inc. was, in the opinion of the Council of the City, the lowest and best bid received thereon;
SECTION 1.
That the Mayor is hereby authorized to enter into a contract with D.B. Bentley, Inc., 2649 Narrows Rd., Painesville, OH 44077 in the amount of $2,227,000 for
implementation of the E. 364th, E. 365th and Harvard Drive Storm Sewer Replacement
Project, in accordance with the specifications and bid submitted; said amount to be expended from the Storm Sewer Fund.
SECTION 2. That the Mayor is further authorized to execute any and all additional documents and forms necessary to the implementation of said contract.
SECTION 3. The bid deposit for the lowest and best bidder shall be returned upon execution of the contract.
RESOLUTION NO. 2019-81 PASSED
A resolution approving Change Order No. 1-Final in the Stevens Boulevard Storm Sewer Project with D.B. Bentley, Inc.
SECTION 1. That Change Order No. 1-Final, decreasing the contract amount in the Steven Boulevard Storm Sewer Project with D.B. Bentley, Inc., a copy of which is attached hereto, is hereby approved in accordance with the recommendation of the City Engineer, and to that extent, said Contract is amended.
RESOLUTION NO. 2019-82 PASSED
A resolution authorizing the Mayor to enter into a five (5) year contract with Browning Ferris Industries of Ohio, Inc. dba Republic Services of Cleveland for residential, municipal curbside solid waste, recyclable and yard waste collection and disposal in the City of Willoughby, and declaring an emergency
On the 6th day of August, 2019, bids were received by the Director of Public Service for the curbside collection and disposal of municipal solid waste, recyclables and yard waste for residential households including those within private sub-developments and condominiums in the City of Willoughby; and
The bid received from Browning-Ferris Industries of Ohio, Inc. dba Republic Services of Cleveland, was, in the opinion of the Council of the City, the lowest and best bid received thereon for the curbside collection and disposal of solid waste, recyclables and yard waste from residential households including those with private sub-developments and condominiums in the City;
SECTION 1. That the Mayor is hereby authorized to enter into a five (5) year contract with Browning-Ferris Industries of Ohio, Inc. dba Republic Services of Cleveland, 8123 Jones Rd., Cleveland, OH 44105 for the curbside collection and disposal of municipal solid waste, recyclables and yard waste for residential households including those within private sub developments and condominiums in the City of Willoughby, in accordance with the specifications and bid submitted. Contract substantially in the form now on file in the Law Department.
SECTION 2. That the Mayor is further authorized to execute any and all additional documents and forms necessary to the implementation of said contract.
SECTION 3. That the Director of Finance, or his designee, is hereby authorized to return bid bonds, certified checks, security deposits, or letters of credit held by him to all except the three (3) lowest and best bidders. The bid deposits for the three (3) lowest and best bidders shall be returned upon execution of the contract.
*
This topic was addressed earlier in this document.
RESOLUTION NO. 2019-83 PASSED
A resolution honoring and commending the Willoughby Fire Department for its 125 years of service and protection to the residents of the City of Willoughby.
A GREAT HONOR FOR OUR FIREMEN!!!!!!
MAYORS REPORT
The Mayor applauded Parks and Recreation Director, Judean Banker, Building Department Director, Darryl Keller and the Service Department Director, Lee Bock for all their efforts to get the new City of Willoughby Senior Center Open on time!!!!
He also spoke to the “Old Union High School Properties” and their status.
Building B (the one being purchased by TDA Architecture, is stalled due to an ownership change.
Building A (the larger building on Point Park) is also going through a change in investors. Once this is complete, there is hope that they can move forward with the "original plans" that were presented to the City.
Shoreline erosion discussed. 13 communities are interested in the possible SID that will be created to deal with this issue. There is discussion that the Port Authority would be asked to help by funding the formation of this SID.
New cellular G5 technology was brought up. This will be seen as the future of communication! The amount of data that G5 can transfer will affect all aspects of our lives from healthcare to education. The concern for cities is the number of pieces of hardware that need to be installed. The units are obvious and not easily hidden. Councilman Kary suggested we "hold strong" in this move when Willoughby is addressed. The primary concern will be the Historical District of the City. We do not want to see technology damage the character of the Downtown Historical District. The Mayor agreed and also emphasized that we need to create some guidelines ASAP regarding the installation of G5 Technology.
DIRECTOR’S REPORTS
SERVICE DIRECTOR, LEE BOCK
Shared that some Traffic Calming Devices have been installed on Hodgson, Adkins and Kirtland Road. They are working and proving to be effective. Others will be installed soon.
PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR, JUDEAN BANKER
Judean expresses thanks to everyone for their help in getting the new Senior Center up and running. There are still a few bumps in the road, but overall this has been seen as a major city accomplishment. Get out there and JOIN THE SENIOR CENTER. You will love it.
COUNCIL REPORTS
No major reports
ADJOURNMENT
COMMENTS BY COUNCILMAN KARY
Let me share a few of the items that I am working on this summer.
• I am working aggressively with the Airport to have them replace missing Street Lights that they have ownership of. Being persistent in getting the Airport to address this issue. I will not stop.
• Close to getting “traffic calming devices” installed on Hodgson and Adkins Roads. DONE
• Working with the City of Mentor to add calming devices on their side of Adkins Road. Working with Councilman at Large, Ray Kirchner from Mentor
• Working with the city engineer to solve storm-water issues for Ward Creek near Kyle Cove off of North Bay. Meeting with residents and city engineer to address flood issues.
• Close to getting Laketran stops on Lost Nation Road at Hodgson and Adkins. DONE, to happen in 2020
• Getting missing Street Lights replaced near the entry of Fairway Glenn. City Service Director stating happening SOON
• Pushing hard to complete the storm-water repairs to Two Town Ditch (specifically the enlargement of the culvert under Lakeshore Blvd where the waters travel out to Lake Erie. Because this involves private property owners, there are several issues to address. Still a major goal to help solve the flow of storm-water out to Lake Erie!!!
• and several others!!!!
Just a quick comment on Elections to take place in November 2019. I am fortunate that I will be the only candidate for Council, Ward 2 Willoughby. I have taken my position very seriously, and I promise to continue working hard to meet the needs of my constituents, as well as the City as a whole. Thank you to everyone for your support. It has been very rewarding to get the comments and support for my time spent serving the City. Again, PLEASE feel free to contact me with any concerns you may have as a resident of our GREAT CITY.
NOTE
The views I express in these Council Meeting Summaries are my own and do not reflect any official view or position of the City of Willoughby. The “official” Council Minutes are posted on the City of Willoughby Website http://willoughbyohio.com/government/city-council