Hotel Library Legacy Alliance Project Fundraising Updates
Mr. Jim Brown, Mr. Dan French, Mr. Doug Haines

Jim Brown gave a brief history of the progress of the hotel from the beginning in January 2006 to the present. Citizens are very positive about the hotel project now that work has begun and progress can be seen, said Mr. Brown.

Dan French spoke on behalf of the fundraising that is still needed to complete the hotel project with about $700,000 yet to raise for the project. Mr. French stated information is available in the "Spirit Newsletter" and pledge cards are available on the City of Piqua's website.

Doug Haines explained this project is truly a labor of love and stated there have been a large number of donations given from various organizations, private citizens, former Piqua residents, and even some grade school classes. Now is the time to Step Up and donate, no amount is to little, every dollar counts, said Mr. Haines.

Presentation - Blue Harbor Group
Mr. Jeff Baumel, Ms. Linda Gossman

Mr. Jeff Baumel stated about 50% of Piqua's leadership team would be eligible for retirement in the next three to five years. The workforce pool is shrinking and the city will be facing significant loss of skills, knowledge and experience. Blue Harbor will be designing a program to help develop the leadership skills of existing employees to better prepare them for promotion to upper-level positions. (See memo enclosed) Mr. Baumel stated the commission should see program developments within the next month.

City Manager Enderle stated this is a long-term program, and what we are trying to do is to help all our employees develop a plan for how they can come up with a vision of what they want to be and move toward that vision. We are asking our employees to enter into a partnership with us, but they have to care and want to develop, said Mr. Enderle.

Presentation - Plan it Piqua - Comprehensive Plan
Mr. Brad Bubp

Brad Bubp, 1279 Park Avenue, Plan it Piqua Steering Committee Chairman, gave a brief update of the Comprehensive Plan completed Goals Update and Land Use Principals. Data was derived from information gathered at community meetings. (See enclosed copy)

Mayor Hudson asked when this Comprehensive Plan would be completed.

Chris Schmiesing, Planning & Zoning Supervisor, stated the Comprehensive Plan should be completed by the end of October 2007.

Announcement of the Summer 2007 Residence Pride Award Winners:

669 South Street Rose Olds
901 Elm Street Margaret Attenweiler
1000 Nicklin Avenue Marijorie & Gerald Born
521 W. Ash Street Shanda & Jack Obringer
414 W. Water Street Darla & Gerald Williamson

REGULAR CITY COMMISSION MEETING

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Moved by Commissioner Terry, seconded by Commissioner Patrizio, that the minutes of the Regular City Commission Meeting on June 18, 2007 be approved as written. Voice vote, Aye: Barhorst, Vogt, Patrizio, Terry, and Hudson. Nay: None. Motion carried unanimously.

ORD. NO. 13-07

An Ordinance vacating a portion of platted public alley right-of-way

Commissioner Terry asked if there were any objections at the Planning Commission Meeting, and if a portion of the alley would still remain open.

Chris Schmiesing, Planning & Zoning Supervisor, stated no one came to speak against the vacation of the potion of platted public alley right of way. A portion of the original alley would remain open, said Mr. Schmiesing.

Commissioner Barhorst asked if this was to be vacated before school started in a few weeks?

Mr. Schmiesing stated they did not indicate this was something they needed to have completed before school started.

Moved by Commissioner Terry, seconded by Commissioner Barhorst, that Ordinance No. 13-07 be given a first reading. Voice vote, Aye: Hudson, Barhorst, Terry, Vogt, and Patrizio. Nay: None. Mayor Hudson then stated Ordinance No. 13-07 was given a first reading.

ORD. NO. 14-07

An Ordinance amending Section 154.005 of the Piqua Code relating to (Definitions) and 154.081 of the Piqua Code relating to (General Regulations)

Commissioner Vogt asked if the items in bold print in Ordinance No. 14-07 were the changes made and voiced his concern about 154.081 Section F and Section I, and asked if someone would explain it.

Chris Schmiesing explained what the changes were listed and how they would be applied in Ordinance No. 14-07

Commissioner Vogt asked why they have to have curb, why can't barriers be used in parking areas?

Mr. Schmiesing explained the use of curbs and barriers.

Commissioner Patrizio voiced his concern over gravel areas in new subdivisions, would they have to be concrete driveways.

Mr. Schmiesing explained that the use of gravel for parking is to be in the rear yard not in front on driveways.

Mayor Hudson asked if parking on gravel is included in side yards?

Mr. Schmiesing explained the parking areas that are allowed to have gravel.

Commissioner Patrizio asked if someone wanted to put a gravel parking area in the backyard would they need to acquire a permit to do this?

Mr. Schmiesing stated they would need to apply for a zoning permit from the Planning & Zoning office to install a gravel parking area in the backyard.

Commissioner Vogt stated the code states the maximum size for a garage is 24' x 30' but we have given a large number of variances to build larger 3 car garages. Now would be the time to make a change in the code language to allow for larger garages.

Mr. Schmiesing stated the variance for a larger garage has been a most popular request lately. It is something we can look into.

Commissioner Patrizio asked what size of garage are citizens asking variances for.

Mr. Schmiesing stated the standard size of a garage allowable is 24 x30, and explained what size buildings the variances are being asked for.

City Manager Enderle stated they should look into this more before making any changes and asked that it be referred back to the Planning Commission to consider.

Mr. Schmiesing explained some of the problems that could occur if some of the changes requested are changed.

Commissioner Terry asked if the neighbors are notified when there is a zoning change in their neighborhood?

Mr. Schmiesing stated they are notified of the date and time of the meeting and if they want to come to speak for or against the issue they have the opportunity.

Moved by Commissioner Vogt, seconded by Commissioner Terry, to give Ordinance No. 14-07 a first reading. Voice vote, Aye: Barhorst, Terry, Vogt, Patrizio, and Hudson. Mayor Hudson then declared Ordinance No. 14-07 was given a first reading.

RES. NO. R-88-07

A resolution approving an application to the DARE Grants Program

Moved by Commissioner Barhorst, seconded by Commissioner Vogt, that Resolution No. R-88-07 be adopted. Voice vote, Aye: Hudson, Patrizio, Barhorst, Terry, and Vogt. Nay: None. Motion carried unanimously. Mayor Hudson them declared Resolution No. R-88-07 adopted.

RES. NO. R- 89-07

A Resolution amending Resolution No. C-7590 in regards to Community Reinvestment Area I, Resolution No. C-8017 in regards to Community Reinvestment Area II, Resolution No. C-9755 in regards to Community Reinvestment Area III, Resolution No. C-10126 in regards to Community Reinvestment Area IV and Resolution No. C-10147 in regards to Community Reinvestment Area V

There was a brief discussion of the various types of CRA's and who can apply for them.
Commissioner Terry asked if there was any incentive for an investor to purchase and fix up a property and turn in over to a new owner.

City Manager Enderle explained how the tax incentive is applied to the property owner.

Harry Bumgarner, Assistant City Manager/ Economic Development Director, explained how the Community Reinvestment Area is applied and who is eligible for this program.

Commissioner Patrizio asked if someone interested in a CRA should come to the City of Piqua first to apply?

Mr. Bumgarner stated yes, they should come to the City of Piqua and speak to Bill Lutz to apply.

Moved by Commissioner Patrizio, seconded by Commissioner Barhorst, that Resolution No. R-89-07 be
adopted. Voice vote, Aye: Barhorst, Terry, Hudson, Patrizio, and Vogt. Nay: None. Motion carried unanimously. Mayor Hudson then declared Resolution No. R-89-07 adopted.

RES. NO. R-90-07

A Resolution retaining the services of McGohan Brabender to provide Health Insurance Consulting Services for the City of Piqua

There was a lengthy discussion on the need for a health insurance consultant, and the cost of this service to the City of Piqua.

Elaine Barton, Human Resources Director, explained the reason for having a health insurance consultant on board stating some of the various ways they have helped the City of Piqua in past.

Commissioner Patrizio stated he would like to table this resolution until the Commissioners can receive more information regarding the need for a health insurance consultant at this time.

Moved by Commissioner Patrizio, seconded by Commissioner Vogt, to table Resolution No. R-90-07. Voice vote, Aye: Hudson, Terry, Patrizio, Vogt, and Barhorst. Nay: None. Motion carried unanimously. Mayor Hudson then declared Resolution No. R-90-07 tabled.

OTHER

Proclamation - National Night Out - Comments - Chief Wayne Willcox

Mayor Hudson read the proclamation and presented it to Police Chief Wayne Willcox.

Chief Willcox gave a brief explanation of what National Night Out is and some of the activities that would be taking place on August 7, 2007 at Lower Mote Park from 6:00 P.M. to 7:30 P.M.

Report - Fountain Park Fence - Capital Improvements - City Manager, Fred Enderle

City Manager Enderle gave a brief explanation of the request for new aluminum fence to be installed at Fountain Park at an estimated cost of $30,000 stating he is looking for direction from the City Commission at this time

There was a lengthy discussion of various other needs for the parks such as restrooms by the playground and pool at Fountain Park, roof repairs to Hance Pavilion, new playground equipment at several of the other parks, etc.

Commissioners Patrizio, Terry, and Vogt said they felt other project should take precedent including the installation of new restrooms at Fountain Park and repairing the roof at Hance Pavilion.

Commissioner Patrizio asked what is the solution for funding the Parks?

City Manager Enderle stated more revenue, and explained the need for more capital planning and grants in the future.

City Manager Enderle further stated the city would move forward with bidding process and bring the final figure before the Commissioners at the next City Commission meeting, at which point a final decision could be made on the fence project at Fountain Park.

Moved by Commissioner Patrizio, seconded by Commissioner Vogt, to move into Executive Session after the Regular City Commission meeting for the purpose of discussing the sale of public property. Voice vote, Aye: Hudson, Patrizio, Vogt, Terry, and Barhorst. Nay: None. Motion carried unanimously.

Jeff Lange, 9586 N. St. Rt. 66, Chairman of POW, handed out photos to the Commissioners from the River sweep that took place on Saturday, July 14, 2007 along the waterways. Mr. Lange gave a brief overview of the project and thanked the many volunteers, companies and the City of Piqua for their support of the
Project.

Mayor Hudson thanked Mr. Lange for spearheading such a worthwhile program, and told him to keep up the great work.

Regina Favorite, 924 New Haven Road, stated maybe port-a-pots could be used at the park.

Gene Smith, 425 S. Downing Street, voiced his concern about his parking and working on his truck at a property he owns at the point of Broadway and Riverside, and with the city receiving complaints each
time he parks his truck there from a neighbor.

City Manager Enderle explained the City has spoken to the neighbor in question about the situation.

Bruce Hogston, 1618 South Street, Parade Chairman, for the Bicentennial Parade thanked everyone for helping to put together the largest parade in Piqua with over 3000 people involved.

Commissioner Patrizio thanked Mr. Hogston for his time and effort in putting together such a wonderful parade.

Lorna Swisher, Executive Director Mainstreet Piqua, thanked the employees of the City of Piqua, Street, Parks, Police and Fire Departments and all of the other departments who participated in the parade.

Gene Smith, 425 S. Downing Street voiced his concern about being able to park his motorhome at his property on the point of Broadway and Riverside.

City Manager Enderle stated that would be a zoning question, and he would check with Chris Schmiesing and get back to him.

Chief Willcox explained how the Police Department would enforce the parking ordinance.

Chuck Starrett, 4244 Demming Road, congratulated the Commissioners on their conduct in the City Commission meeting and how the issues were discussed in a civil manner.

Mr. Starrett asked that citizens come forward to fill the positions that are going to be vacated on the City Commission.

Mr. Starrett stated maybe the JVS or High School students could possibly work on the some of the parks projects to help put.

Commissioner Vogt reminded citizens the 3rd Annual Car Show is scheduled for Saturday, July 21, 2007 at the Roadside Park on St. Rt. 66.

Commissioner Vogt stated he had received a call regarding speeding on South Street and asked if the speed trailer could be placed there to help deter the speeding.

Chief Willcox stated the speed trailer is broken at this time but will have officer's check on the area.

Commissioner Vogt also voiced concern over a broken entryway into the alley off of Covington Ave on Linden Ave, and also stated there are several potholes in the middle of the block on Linden Avenue.

Commissioner Barhorst congratulated the five Residence Pride winners, also congratulated Jeff Lange and Lorna Swisher and Bruce Hogston for jobs well done with the Riversweep and the Bicentennial Parade.

Commissioner Patrizio thanked Jeff Lange and his group of volunteers for a job well done.

Commissioner Patrizio stated the debut on the Parks issue was not personal between the Commissioners. It is just the best way to discuss the issues that are before the Commission, said Commissioner Patrizio.

Commissioner Patrizio reminded citizens that are 65 or older or disabled of the new Homestead Act discount on their property taxes regardless of income. Citizens must sign up with the Miami County Auditors office to receive the discount.

Commissioner Terry congratulated the Bicentennial Parade Committee, Jeff Lange for the great job on the Riversweep cleanup, the five Residence Pride award winners, and Police Officer Don Larger for winning the City Golf Tournament.

City Manager Enderle reminded citizens there is still one opening on the Golf Board and applications are available on the City website and at the front desk in the Municipal Government Complex.

Mayor Hudson stated in regards to a letter to the editor in the Piqua Daily Call concerning crossing the street where there is just a pedestrian crossing sign; does traffic have to stop?

Tom Zechman, Public Works Director, explained the use of pedestrian crosswalk signs, and stated he would put something together.

Mayor Hudson thanked Jeff Lange and his group of volunteers for doing such a great job on cleaning up the waterways.

Mayor Hudson thanked the Hotel Library Legacy Committee and stated they still need to raise more funds and asked that citizens send in their donations no matter how small they may be, every dollar is important to this project.

City Manager Enderle stated the City Commission will hold a work session on Thursday, July 19, 2007 at 4:00 P.M. in the conference room in the Municipal Government Complex to discuss Recycling.

Executive Session

Moved by Commissioner Vogt, seconded by Commissioner Terry, to adjourn into Executive Session at 9:50 P.M. to discuss the sale of property. Voice vote, Aye; Hudson, Patrizio, Vogt, Terry, and Barhorst. Nay: None. Motion carried unanimously.

Moved by Commissioner Terry, seconded by Commissioner Vogt to adjourn from the Executive Session and the Regular Piqua City Commission meeting at 10:15 P.M. Voice vote, Aye: Vogt, Hudson, Patrizio, Terry, and Barhorst. Nay: None. Motion carried unanimously.

_____________________________
THOMAS D. HUDSON, MAYOR

PASSED: _______________________

ATTEST: _______________________
REBECCA J. COOL
CLERK OF COMMISSION