At the meeting this Friday morning, Mayor Lois called the meeting to order at 7:37 a.m. starting with a roll call: Mayor Claude Lois, David Torgler, Mary Brensinger, John Ekes, Mike Hohner, Kevin McKillip, Dennis Spankowski and Jenny Trick. Excused: Jack Eckola, Tom Stelling and Bill Stone. Absent: John Smith.

Approval of Minutes. Dennis Spankowski motioned and John Ekes seconded to approve the minutes of the August 24, 2001 DET meeting. All were in favor and the motion carried.

Chief Patla, in support of his presentation, distributed two documents. The first was a memorandum dated 10/4/01 regarding Parking Enforcement regulations within the current municipal code and the second was titled as "Parking and Parking Management".

The first document cited a variety of municipal codes specific to parking enforcement practices, as well as, a general overview of Automated Systems. The second document was an excerpt from the former "Main Street" program, wherein issues relating to parking resource evaluation, regulations and parking strategies were discussed.

Chief Patla referred to the previously completed parking survey and stated that the information will be updated in the short term. He also explained that many of the activities relating to parking enforcement are done manually with the exception of an access database for tracking purposes. He further explained the process of the parking citation activities and resulting process of collecting payments.

The Chief then reiterated that the parking needs/desires are different between the retail and service sector. With this difference, the resolution to the parking situation is complicated. He referred to the previously discussed parking zone within a section of the central business district. However, without computerized tracking devices, this methodology would be difficult. He did offer, however, the potential of utilizing a Palm Pilot-type device with appropriate software and printing devices to potentially decrease the overall cost. He also referred to a potential escalating fee schedule for repeated offenders.

Some discussion by the committee members included the potential of eliminating the fees for all-day parking within the municipal parking lots, convenient payment processes and alternative sites where permits (if the fee permit process continues) could be purchased, perhaps at the Chamber office.

The presentation concluded with Mayor Lois asking Chief Patla to continue the investigative activities regarding the enforcement options and report back to the DET at the next meeting.

Ms. Trick distributed a memorandum document and supporting map identifying the locations of the proposed wayfinding signage. Mr. Spankowski of Burli Signs provided a sample of a directional sign that could be employed. The material is a composite material, graffiti and vandal resistant and can be cleaned by pressure washing on an annual basis.

The DET members agreed that the color presented in the sample was appropriate for Burlington. The field of the sign was beige and the border and wording was dark green. Additionally, the DET members concurred that the use of the City of Burlington logo (Chocolate City) was appropriate and should be utilized within all proposed signage, wayfinding, parking lots and entrance signs.

DET member Mr. Torgler voiced a concern regarding the wind factor of the proposed directional signs. Mr. Spankowski indicated that there is analysis to determine the proper placement and secure devices to prevent problems. DET member Mr. Ekes recommended that the signs be mounted on decorative brackets to accomplish two things. First, aesthetically the brackets and hanging signs appear more historic and pleasing; and second that by hanging the signs via brackets versus flush mounted to the pole, the wind factor concern would be minimized. The DET members agreed and directed the City Staff to proceed with the placement details of the signage and report back to the committee.

The committee members were asked to review the list of signs and provide comments/concerns by the next DET meeting.

The signage discussions concluded with the brief discussion regarding the service club signs. The placement and means of displaying the logos is still in question. However, the DET members concurred that the service club logos should be on a separate structure versus integrated within the "Welcome to Burlington" signs.

Ms. Trick distributed a memorandum regarding parking incentives and promotions, which offered a variety of parking incentive examples from communities throughout the US. After a brief review and discussion, the DET members concluded that the potential incentive program and enforcement modifications should be considered, but completed in a comprehensive/cohesive manner and implemented in tandem with the other proposed changes, enforcement, parking lot and wayfinding signage.

Audience member, Jackie Busch requested that the City consider a snow removal program for the parking lots. Mr. Torgler requested of Larry Gobel to check into the status of this program and to provide information for consideration to the City Council.

Mike Hohner motioned and John Ekes seconded to adjourn. All were in favor and the motion carried.

Adjourned at 9:17 a.m.

Recording Secretary – Jenny Trick