Norwood City Council

Council Chambers

February 22, 2005

 

 

 

 

A)   CALL TO ORDER

The Council for the City of Norwood met in regular session on the above date with President Jane M. Grote presiding.  The meeting opened with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance.

 

B)   PRAYER

 

C)  PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

 

D)  ROLL CALL

On roll call, the following members answered present:  Mr. Gabbard, Mr. Sanker, Mr. Tracey, Mr. Moore, Mr. Fulmer, Mr. Geers, Mr. Mumper, Mrs. Brown, and Mr. DeLuca.

 

E)   AMENDMENT OF AGENDA:

There were no amendments to the agenda at this time.

 

F)    APPROVE MINUTES FROM:  January 25, 2005 and February 8, 2005

 

Mr. Fulmer asked that a typographical error on Page 2 of the February 8, 2005 minutes be corrected. 

 

On a motion by Mr. Fulmer, seconded by Mr. Geers, it was moved to approve the minutes as if read.  All members present voted YES.

 

G)  Public Hearings

Council then moved to Public Hearings with an explanation of the general format of Public Hearings provided by Ms. Grote.

 

A)    REVISION TO THE MAJOR PUD PLAN KNOWN AS CORNERSTONE AT NORWOOD PHASE II.

After the call to speak on the Public Hearing, the Hearing closed with no attendees speaking either for or against the revisions.

 

Mr. DeLuca noted that Dobbs Ackerman and Greg Long are present and asked Mr. Ackerman to the podium to explain this change and answer questions from Council.  This area was originally a restaurant pad and the proposal before Council will change this to a Medical facility. 

 

Mr. Ackerman explained that the change is to allow the change from a restaurant to a medical building in the third and middle building on the campus.  In conversations with prospective restaurants it became clear that, among other things, their designs may conflict with the design of the rest of the campus.  The current plan is to build the third building which will be occupied by a medical office and will complement the rest of this office campus.  This is an increase in the tax base over the restaurant plans and the medical tenant will use 10,000+ square feet on two floors for outpatient procedures for a total of nearly 22,000 square feet.  Mr. Ackerman then showed the design of the building.

 

Mr. Sanker asked if the façade that was shown would go all around the building or just on one side.  Mr. Ackerman responded that this will be the basic design of all sides of this third building on the campus.

 

Mr. DeLuca asked Mr. Ackerman for the rough timeline of this building.  Mr. Ackerman responded that construction will begin in early summer 2005 and the building will be complete in late summer 2006.

 

Mr. Moore asked Mr. Ackerman to show the design of the entire complex.  Mr. Ackerman obliged and showed two designs of the Cornerstone complex as proposed.

 

Mr. Fulmer stated that he is pleased to see this new usage, the other nearby developments have plenty of restaurants and this completes the usage of this facility.

 

Mr. DeLuca noted that this change is in the City’s best interest.  Originally the Cornerstone development was to be a mix of office and retail; but the developer and City have worked together through tough times to continue refining the design and the patience will pay off with this change.  This is a great example of responsible development in the City.

 

On a motion by Mr. DeLuca, seconded by Mr. Sanker, it was moved to accept the revisions to the PUD.  All members present voted YES.

 

H)  Requests to address council on agenda items

 

 

I)      Reports of Standing committees of council

1.      Finance and Claims RE: Various Claims.

On a motion by Mr. Moore, seconded by Mr. Mumper, it was moved to accept the report and request the Law Department prepare an Ordinance approving this single approved claim.  All members present voted YES.

 

1.      Finance and Claims RE:  Letter to the bargaining units regarding health care.

On a motion by Mr. Mumper, seconded by Mr. DeLuca, it was moved to accept the report.  All members present voted YES.

 

J)    Introductory reading of ORDINANCES

A)    ORDINANCE ADOPTING THIRD AMENDMENT TO THE REDEVELOPMENT CONTRACT FOR THE ROOKWOOD EXCHANGE PROJECT, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.

 

Mr. DeLuca explained that this simply extends the dates on the existing agreement to allow for the delays incurred by litigation.  Mr. Richard Tranter, attorney for the developer, was present to address questions and was called to the podium. 

 

Mr. Tranter explained that progress is being made in a very orderly manner and all closings are on schedule and contingencies are being resolved.  The developer has been in constant contact with ODOT to work through details to close on surplus parcels as well.  Mr. Tranter thanked the City for their support on this great project and that leasing efforts are very vigorously being pursued.

 

On a motion by Mr. Fulmer, seconded by Mr. Tracey, it was moved to suspend the rules and have all three readings.  All members present voted YES.

 

On a motion by Mr. Tracey, seconded by Mr. Mumper, it was moved to pass the Ordinance.  All members present voted YES.

 

On a motion by Mr. DeLuca, seconded by Mr. Tracey, it was moved to add Communication O-3) to the agenda.  All members present voted YES.

 

K)  ADMINISTRATION REPORTS

The Mayor was present and announced that the Hamilton County Commissioners will meet March 14, 2005 6:30pm in the City of Norwood Council Chambers to discuss the 2005 budget, MSD Rates, etc.

 

Mayor Williams also announced that to date Public Works has used 58 tons of Cold Mix in the repair of potholes. 

 

Mr. Mumper asked the Mayor for an update on the State Auditor’s work.  Mayor Williams responded that work is ongoing and the Administration is finalizing the selection of a comparable Ohio city for analysis.  The forecast for 2005 and 2006 are nearing completion and these reports will be ready soon.

 

Mrs. Brown asked for an update on the Jefferson Avenue home invasion.  Mayor Williams responded that both suspects have been arrested and are in custody, one suspect was on parole from the State of California.  The Mayor thanked the neighbors for their action in calling police and explained that the action of neighbors saved this man’s life.

 

Mr. DeLuca asked for the status of the Fire Contract appeal.  Mayor Williams responded that the appeal has been submitted and we are awaiting the decision on the appeal from the SERB board.  No timeline has been given.

 

Mr. Geers asked for an update on the Fun Factory issues.  The Mayor responded that Police Officers have gathered background reports and are compiling the necessary information.  The Administration has and will continue to talk to the ownership of the Fun Factory.

 

Mayor Williams also mentioned that he has received word from the Police Department regarding concerns around Group Homes.  The Administration has contacted Mr. Victor Lloyd, representing the Mental Health Association of Southwest Ohio.  Mr. Lloyd would be happy to come to a West Norwood Neighborhood Association meeting and/or a Council Meeting to address concerns.  While no one wants to be discourteous to the residents of these Group Homes, the City’s current residents have the same rights.  The Administration will pursue the concerns.

 

Mr. Moore thinks dialogue between Council and the Mental Health Association of Southwest Ohio is a good idea and asked, in regards to the Fun Factory issue, if there have been discussions with charging the Fun Factory with a Public Nuisance or as a Disorderly House.  The Mayor responded that this is a very viable option and he is sick of the lack of cooperation.  The ownership has broken his word and is pushing his luck.  This issue will continue to be pursued as there is an issue of tranquility in the surrounding neighborhood.

 

Mrs. Brown mentioned that she recently saw statistics from another local Police Department and wondered if the Norwood Police Department had something similar.  Mayor Williams responded that the Norwood Police Department has a year end report and other related statistics that will be available shortly.  One item that jumps out of the stats is related to the number of runs on group homes.  This information will be made available to Council when complete.

 

Mr. Sanker mentioned that he had thoughts on the Jefferson Ave. incident, and wondered if the Administration would be interested in a Cable Show that helps residents prepare and be cautious of such incidents.  The Police Department did a great job, but we can also focus on crime prevention.  Mayor Williams suggested that while everyone needs to hear these tips, perhaps this can be conducted as part of the Senior Center activities.  Everyone should be aware of the threats and the steps necessary to avoid these types of incidents.

 

Mr. Mumper asked Mayor Williams about the status of the possible relocation of the Police Substation to the Community Center.  Mayor Williams asked the Director of Public Safety-Service, Mr. Geers to the podium and provide the update.  Mr. Geers answered that during the most recent West Norwood Neighborhood Association meeting, there was a tour of the new room to be allocated to the purpose.  Public Works and the WNNA are working on minor improvements to the room.  The most significant work will be to somehow separate this room from the rest of the Community Center, particularly for the off-hours usage of the substation.

 

Mrs. Brown asked Mayor Williams and Mr. Geers about the details regarding the recent notification of the 10% increase in water rates.  Mr. Geers mentioned that the full details were in the letter read during the last meeting, but the basics are that Cincinnati is raising their rates 5% as of January 15, 2005.  In the previous two years the water fund has been depleted nearly $500,000.  The 10% increase is an attempt over the next year to cover the 5% increase as well as stabilize the fund.  Cincinnati is planning a 7.5% increase in 2006 at which time the water fund will likely be stabilized and the City of Norwood will not likely need to increase the rates above and beyond the full anticipated 7.5% at that time.  The water fund is in place for repairs, salaries, and matching grants; the goal is that this fund is not depleted but is sustained at a level that can cover these largely unpredictable costs.

 

Mrs. Brown asked if there were any major projects planned.  Mr. Geers responded that there were not, but these projects are rarely planned as they are maintenance efforts.  While a double digit increase may be hard to swallow, the fund needs to be stabilized to prepare for any major incidents in the future.

 

Mr. Moore asked if there was a decision on the Soupie’s Liquor License hearing.  Mayor Williams responded that we have not yet heard and it’s not clear when we can expect a decision.  The Administration will keep this Council informed.

 

L)   REQUEST TO ADDRESS COUNCIL RE: NON-AGENDA ITEMS:  

 

M)UNFINISHED BUSINESS  

Mr. Fulmer mentioned the City’s developments as positives for the City; Cornerstone Phase II is currently under construction, we heard earlier about the Medical Building, garage, and fountain.  The Rookwood Exchange will start this year and the committee is working on the Globe Site plan.

 

Mrs. Brown noted that the Traffic Calming notice has been on NCT for over a week, but no volunteers have come forward to date.  Mrs. Brown encouraged anyone interested to call the Clerk of Council’s office for more detailed information.

 

Mr. Fulmer added that while in Mason recently he noticed several small speed signs equipped with radar and asked the Administration to investigate these signs that may be more effective than the one large speed sign we currently use.  Perhaps we could look for a grant to cover some of these signs and place them throughout the City’s busier streets.

 

Mr. DeLuca noted that there is a letter in the Council packet in response to the issue placed in the Community Development Committee to investigate implementing job creation tax credits and CRA tax credits in the City of Norwood.  Mr. Blanton from the Hamilton County Development Center will be speaking at tomorrow’s committee meeting.

 

Mr. Moore commented on the Fun Factory issue and noted that while at first this appears to be an issue dealing with the tranquility of the neighborhood, this is more importantly an issue of safety.  Mr. Moore recalled that shots were fired during a riot nearly 18 months ago at this site and this is potentially a more serious issue than neighborhood tranquility.

 

Mrs. Brown commented on the Salvation Army property concerns raised at the last meeting.  While we are addressing some of the issues currently, Mrs. Brown encouraged residents to call the Police Department when problems arise; this will help the City gather data and obtain the leverage we need to work on a long term solution to these concerns.

 

Mr. DeLuca noted he attended the February Planning Commission based on the motion Council made in January asking the Planning Commission to revisit the zoning of our Montgomery Road business corridor.  There seemed to be some confusion regarding which items Council would like reviewed at the Planning Commission Meeting.  Mr. DeLuca asked all Council members to call a member of the Planning Commission in an attempt to clear up this confusion; time is of the essence and we need the Commission to quickly review the zoning in this important area.  While more holistic changes are required long term, something needs to be done immediately along the business corridor. 

 

Mrs. Brown asked that a letter be sent to the Treasurer’s office asking to once again look into a Tax Amnesty program and to report back to Council on the status of such a program.

 

Mr. DeLuca announced that there have been recent revisions to the Rental Certificate application process.  Processes were in place several years ago to address the needs of those out of compliance, but we also need to make sure those that make efforts are aware of these new processes.  Landlords with questions can call Mr. DeLuca.

 

N)  NEW BUSINESS

Mr. Tracey read a letter that announced that Ms. Gromes, a resident, has left $2,000 to both the Police Department and the Fire Department in her will and estate and can be used as determined appropriate.  This is some positive news to report.

 

Mr. Fulmer announced that the annual Easter Egg Hunt is scheduled for Saturday March19, 2005 at Waterworks Park.  Pictures will begin at 9:30am and the hunt will begin at 10:00am.  Contact the Norwood Recreation Commission for more information at 531-9798.

 

Mr. DeLuca announced that a Ward meeting is scheduled for Saturday, March 12 at 10:00am in Council Chambers.  Topics are City finances, development issues, traffic issues on Highland and Norwood Avenue, rezoning plans, and general questions and answers.  Mr. DeLuca has invited the Mayor, Health Commissioner, Treasurer, and Director of Public Safety-Service.

 

Mr. Moore announced that a Ward meeting is scheduled for Saturday, March 5 at 10:00am in the Community Center for general questions and answers.

 

Mr. DeLuca mentioned that a resident recently asked him questions about returning an item to a local merchant that has since gone out of business.  Mr. DeLuca referred this patron and any others with issues with this merchant to Howard Ain, who did a piece on this merchant recently and may be able to help.  On a similar note, Mr. DeLuca encouraged all residents to contact the Better Business Bureau prior to engaging in any upcoming home improvement projects.  There are many contractors out there that are not bonded, not licensed, or do not have Worker’s Compensation insurance.

 

Mr. Geers asked to place the issue of potholes, snow removal, and streets in general into the Streets, Infrastructure, and Public Works Committee.

 

Mr. DeLuca asked that the issue of maintenance on the streets recently repaved be placed into the Streets, Infrastructure, and Public Works Committee as well.  Mr. DeLuca noted that streets that were newly paved in 1998 and 1999 are showing major cracks and disrepair; this is particularly alarming since we borrowed and will still be paying for these streets for up to 15 years.

 

Mr. Geers announced a Streets, Infrastructure, and Public Works Committee meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, March 1, 2005 at 6:45pm in Council Chambers prior to the Committee of the Whole Meeting.

 

Mr. Fulmer asked that a letter be sent to the Earnings Tax Department asking the Department to be sure that all businesses are withholding Norwood taxes if they have business in Norwood, that all who live in Norwood file their taxes if required, and to insure that landlords furnish a list of tenants so that we can remain current in our records.

 

Mr. Moore noted that in discussions with the Earnings Tax Department, the Health Department, and the Building Department it is obvious that the coordination and collaboration has increased in the previous year.  As an example, the Building Department is working to make sure that property owners are not unduly receiving the Homestead credit when they do not qualify.

 

Mr. Gabbard asked that the idea of a part time, commission based, Earnings Tax collector be place into Council’s Committee of the Whole for investigation.

 

Mr. DeLuca announced that the first of the Bi-Annual Street Sales is scheduled for May 6th and 7th from 9:00am to 5:00pm.  More information will be forthcoming.

 

Mr. Moore asked that a letter be sent to the Law Department asking that an Ordinance be drafted to extend the Wage Freeze an additional 6 months.

 

Mr. Fulmer asked that all residents call either him at 731-6526, other Council members, the Police Department, Health Department, or Public Works, to notify the City of garbage setout violations.  This is a quality of life issue that must be resolved and the spring, when residents are regularly outside, is a prime time to correct this issue.

 

Mr. Moore mentioned that residents on Crosley Ave. have contacted him regarding an unsolicited letter they have received asking their interest in selling their homes.  Mr. Moore noted that if these letters have been received from a legitimate speculator, they are not coordinated with the City and have no merit. 

 

Mr. DeLuca added that there have also been rumors that townhouses will be built in the Duck Creek and Williams area.  Mr. DeLuca assured residents that there is nothing in the Community Development Committee that validates this rumor.

 

Mr. Fulmer also added that residents on Duck Creek and Avilla Pl. have asked about redevelopment plans for this area.  Mr. Fulmer noted that this rumor may come from a speculator but there are no plans in Committee or any that the City has been made aware.

 

Mr. Moore placed the idea of regulations of Group Homes be placed into the Law and Ordinance Committee.  This is a potential safety issue and Mr. Moore and the West Norwood Neighborhood Association are aware of several cases where supervision and care have not been provided as required; the number of police runs has recently increased to several of these group homes.

 

Mr. Fulmer thanked the Police Department for their work in arresting the criminals related to the Jefferson Ave. incident.  He also thanked the Police Department for their work at the Mexican Store on Montgomery Rd.  In both cases, the perpetrators were captured.

 

Mrs. Brown directed a question to the Mayor regarding an update on the Globe site grant.  Mayor Williams responded that the grant has passed the first phase and Mr. Dettmer feels positive about the developments for now, but that nothing is final.  The Administration will keep Council informed of any decision.

 

Mr. DeLuca added that the board that administers the grant program met on the Globe Property.  Mr. DeLuca added that the committee is working on the start of a redevelopment agreement for the property.  Developers were encouraged to contact the Norwood Historical Society regarding design options for retaining the flat iron building in any such development.

 

Mr. Moore announced that the West Norwood Neighborhood Association has scheduled a “Clean Up West Norwood Day” for April 2nd to clean up debris left behind by the winter months.  Please call 351-4956 for information or to volunteer.

 

O)  COMMUNICATIONS: 

1.      Letter from Donnie R. Jones, City Auditor  RE: January 31, 2005 Auditor’s Report.

On a motion by Mr. Fulmer, seconded by Mr. Mumper, it was moved that the letter be received and filed.  All members present voted YES.

 

1.      Letter from Joseph C. Geers, Service-Safety Director RE:  ADA Compliance-Cornerstone.

Mr. Fulmer noted that this came in response to a request to address Council that questioned whether or not this facility met ADA regulations; Mr. Fulmer is pleased to see that the garage is in compliance.

 

On a motion by Mr. DeLuca, seconded by Mr. Fulmer, it was moved that the letter be received and filed.  All members present voted YES.

 

2.      Letter from Bob Sorrell, Clerk of Courts RE:  Amnesty Week.

M. DeLuca asked that a copy of this letter be sent to NCT and the Enquirer and Post be notified as well. 

 

On a motion by Mr. DeLuca, seconded by Mr. Tracey, it was moved that the letter be received and filed.  All members present voted YES.

 

P)   EXCUSE ABSENT MEMBERS

All members are present.

 

Q)  ADJOURNMENT

On a motion by Mr. Mumper, seconded by Mr. Geers, it was moved to adjourn.  All members present voted YES.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

______________________________            ______________________________

J. Brian Mumper                                           Jane M. Grote

Clerk of Council                                             President of Council