City of Burlington Downtown Executive Team

At the meeting this Friday morning, in the absence of Chairman of the DET, Mayor Claude Lois, the City Council representative, John Ekes, was the Chairman Pro-tem and the meeting was called to order at 7:30 a.m. starting with a roll call: David Torgler, Mary Brensinger, John Ekes, Mike Hohner, Kevin McKillip, Dennis Spankowski, Tom Stelling and Jenny Trick. Excused: Mayor Claude Lois, John Smith and Bill Stone. It was noted that Jack Eckola has resigned from the DET; official notification was received by the Common Council.

David Torgler motioned and Dennis Spankowski seconded to approve the minutes of the October 26, 2001 DET meeting. All were in favor and the motion carried.

Chief Patla provided an overview of the distributed memorandum regarding recommended parking enforcement modifications. The memorandum included the following recommendations:

Discussion: The DET members agreed with the recommendation with the exception of changing the discount time frame from 24 to 48 hours.

Discussion: Substantial discussion occurred regarding this subject and it was concluded that although it may be a concern, no action was taken on this issue, but rather could be considered in the future.

Discussion: Chief Patla offered that the storage of vehicles is sometimes a problem, as well as some vehicles that are not moved regularly. The DET members agreed that it was necessary to require that vehicles should be moved every three days unless alternative arrangements have been made with the Police Department for a temporary need.

It was further suggested that there should be a limitation on the number of parking permits provided to residents; perhaps two permits per apartment unit. This discussion was concluded by suggesting that the permit ratio be similar to the City ordinance stipulating # of cars/dwelling unit. Chief Patla stated that he would investigate this option further.

Discussion: Chief Patla indicated that he would develop a parking brochure/map to potentially be distributed by the police department and Chamber of Commerce.

On a motion by Mr. Hohner, seconded by Mr. Stelling with the referred changes and suggestions, this matter was recommended to the Common Council for final review and approval. All were in favor and the motion carried.

Mr. Torgler offered an overview of some of the riverfront redevelopment projects that are underway, specifically the riverwalk and amenities. Mr. Torgler indicated that the riverwalk project was proceeding on schedule, and actually a portion of the second phase of construction was ahead of schedule. He further explained, that although the winter of 2001/02 has been mild and one could assume that more construction activities could be underway; the bid document was established based upon typical seasonal issues. Mr. Torgler concluded by stating that an "end date" was cited within the contract and per his discussions with the contractor, they remain on schedule and the end-date is still intact.

Ms. Trick provided the DET members the status of the wayfinding project. The specifications regarding this project were being developed and it was anticipated that the project could be advertised during February 2002. Relating to this issue, although the subject was discussed, consensus was not gained at the October 2001 DET meeting regarding the use of reflective materials. Specifically, the text within the removable panels could be completed with reflective or non-reflective material. It was agreed by the DET members, to increase the readability of the signs in the evening hours, reflective materials should be employed.

The Livery Lot parking improvement project was proceeding well with the recent removal of the utility poles. The remaining weather sensitive activities, landscaping and final layer of asphalt, were scheduled for spring 2002 and Time Warner was contacted to investigate the possibility of bundling or eliminating a variety of cables attached to the rears of buildings within the 500 block of North Pine Street.

Mr. Torgler referred the DET members to the memorandum provided in the agenda package, offering an overview of the meeting. In general, the Retailers Group needed to continue their strategic planning process to determine their short and long term goals and needs. Mr. Torgler reiterated that he would be available to attend future Retailers meetings if needed.

Ms. Trick offered that she was contacted by Judith Schulz regarding two issues. First, one of the wayfinding signs is to be installed at the corner of Milwaukee and Pine, just north of Krein’s Paint Store. In the preliminary review of sign placement, it was indicated that the tree at this intersection may need to be removed to accommodate the ability to see the sign. She indicated that she, as well as others in the area, hoped that there would be an alternative to removal. Mr. Torgler suggested that the City’s horticulturist offer his opinion on the ability to trim the tree to accommodate the sign; or consider an alternative location for the sign. Ms. Trick will report back to the DET in this regard.

Second, Ms. Schulz suggested that the City consider posting a temporary sign reflecting the free parking within the municipal lots (less the 24-hour restriction). Mr. Torgler indicated that the wayfinding signs include new Municipal Parking lot signage, but in the interim would investigate the possibility of erecting temporary information.

Mike Hohner motioned and Dennis Spankowski seconded to adjourn. All were in favor and the motion carried.

Adjourned at 8:30 a.m.

Recording Secretary – Jenny Trick