03-25-2002 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, March 25, 2002 • 7:00 o'clock p.m. (Mayor /Council Report, Continued) Gaffron indicated the Tabors have been told over the years that the City does not look favorably on subdivision of this property. Moorse commented the City did reguide the land along Willow for two to three lots per acre in order to promote more affordable housing. Nygard stated he is aware the City does not currently allow auto sales, but suggested the City look at allowing a smaller, 10 to 15 car operation. Mayor Peterson stated the City did look at that type of business up near Bay Furniture. Moorse commented the City needs to carefully look at the type of restrictions it places on businesses. PUBLIC SERVICE DIRECTOR'S REPORT ( #13) REVISIONS TO 2002 FEE SCHEDULE — ORDINANCE No. 217 and 218,2 nd SERIES Gappa stated the City has been experiencing problems with numerous properties that have • non - functioning water meters, noting there are currently 50 properties with non - functioning water meters. Currently these properties are paying an estimated water bill each quarter. Gappa noted Staff is having a difficult time to repair the meters and have revised the City Code on water meters to clarify and expand the requirements for water meters and the locations of remote readers. Gappa stated the revised code section also adds a new quarterly service charge for properties with non - functioning or inaccessible water meters. The Code states the City reserves the right to charge a service fee or shut off the water for non - functioning meters. Staff is recommending establishing a quarterly fee of $50 for a non - functioning water meter. Gappa stated Staff is also proposing several changes to the year 2002 golf course fees. The golf course manager has expressed some concern about the large percentage increases that were made to the League and Student Rates. Gappa indicated a consultant has advised the City that the rates for the Orono Golf Course are comparable to other area courses, and is in agreement with the fee revisions. Nygard stated in his opinion a $1.00 increase is not that large of an increase and would not deter people from using the golf course. Gappa stated if the fees are raised $1.00, the consultant recommended only raising the rates every two years rather than yearly. Peterson moved, Sansevere seconded, to approve the revisions to the 2002 City Fee Schedule to add a $50.00 quarterly service charge for a non - functioning water meter. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0. Peterson moved, White seconded, to adjust the 2002 Golf Course rates to reflect a .50 cent increase in the fees charged for leagues, students, and seniors. VOTE: Ayes 3, Nays 2, Nygard and Flint opposed. PAGE 11