1. CALL TO ORDER BY THE HONORABLE MAYOR DARREN M. CORDOVA
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The Regular Meeting of the Taos Town Council was called to order by the Honorable Mayor Darren M. Cordova at 1:31 p.m.
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Ms. Renee Lucero, Town Clerk, called roll and a quorum was present.
Those present were: Mayor, Darren M. Cordova Mayor Pro Tem, Rudy C. Abeyta Councilmember, A. Eugene Sanchez Councilmember, Amy J. Quintana Councilmember, Michael A. Silva
Also present were: Town Manager, Daniel Miera Assistant Town Manager, Abigail Adame Town Clerk, Renee Lucero Interim Town Attorney, John Clough
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Councilmember Quintana led the audience in the pledge of allegiance.
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* Move Item 11.B. to after Citizens Forum; * Change amount in Item 8.C. from $9,000 to $9,600; * Change Contract No. in Item 9.D. from TT-12-108 to TT-12-08; * Add to Executive Session - Personnel Matters regarding the Airport Manager.
Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta made a motion to approve the Agenda as amended. Councilmember Silva seconded the motion. The motion was approved by an affirmative vote. Those voting AYE were: Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta, and Councilmembers Sanchez, Quintana and Silva.
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Councilmember Silva made a motion to approve the Minutes of May 5, 2011 as presented. Councilmember Quintana seconded the motion. The motion was approved by an affirmative vote. Those voting AYE were: Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta, and Councilmembers Sanchez, Quintana and Silva.
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Change second motion under item 10.I. from Councilmember Quintana to Councilmember Sanchez.
Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta made a motion to approve the Minutes of May 10, 2011 as amended. Councilmember Sanchez seconded the motion. The motion was approved by an affirmative vote. Those voting AYE were: Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta, and Councilmembers Sanchez, Quintana and Silva.
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Councilmember Silva made a motion to approve the Minutes of May 13, 2011 as presented. Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta seconded the motion. The motion was approved by an affirmative vote. Those voting AYE were: Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta, and Councilmembers Sanchez and Silva.
Councilmember Quintana abstained from the vote since she did not attend the meeting.
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Councilmember Silva made a motion to approve the Minutes of May 19, 2011 as presented. Councilmember Quintana seconded the motion. The motion was approved by an affirmative vote. Those voting AYE were: Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta, and Councilmembers Sanchez, Quintana and Silva.
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Councilmember Silva made a motion to approve the Minutes of May 24, 2011 as presented. Councilmember Quintana seconded the motion. The motion was approved by an affirmative vote. Those voting AYE were: Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta, and Councilmembers Sanchez, Quintana and Silva.
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6. AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS
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Mayor Cordova read a retirement proclamation and pronounced May 28, 2011 as Leroy Trujillo Day and thanked Mr. Trujillo for his 17 years of service to the Town of Taos and the citizens of the community.
Councilmember Silva stated Mr. Trujillo has been a dedicated employee of the Town of Taos and thanked him for his service.
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| Mr. Colonius explained the various programs Rocky Mountain Youth Corps (RMYC) has provided to the community since 1995 and outlined the sources of RMYC funding. In addition, he explained a procedure to assist with creating efficient practices for youth service providing organizations and their stakeholders (such as the Town). He stated the creation of efficiencies assists with remaining open and transparent. Furthermore, Mr. Colonius stated the efficiencies assist organizations with the decision making process and to disburse grant funds more equitably. |
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Mr. White stated he believes four-way stops are unnecessary because there is not enough traffic on the side roads of Taos to justify them. He also requested that Taos Public Library open at 9:00 a.m. rather than 10:00 a.m. and believes staff should be moved from Taos Visitors Center to the library in order to allow for the time change. Daniel Miera, Town Manager, stated he cannot discuss personnel in an open meeting; however, the Town will evaluate Mr. White's requests.
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| Candyce O'Donnell, Taos Local Television | |
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Ms. O'Donnell requested Council consideration of contracting with Taos Local Television the original amount of $48,000. She stated this amount is justified because it will enable Taos Local Television to replace outdated equipment.
Mayor Cordova advised Ms. O'Donnell that staff has been instructed to increase the contract amount from $38,796 to $45,000.
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Mr. Northrup commended the Council on considering the proposed animal trapping resolution. He also spoke about dog chaining, requested that Councilmember Quintana resign, suggested that the Town impose a ban on fireworks, recommended the Taos Police Department enforcement on laws regarding fireworks and inquired as to whether the Annual Fireworks Display had been relocated.
Mr. Miera stated the Annual Fireworks Display has been moved farther south on Salazar Road near Chamisa Road. Mayor Cordova stated it is unfortunate that the display is still in close proximity to the Animal Shelter; however, it will help because it is not as close and the Town does intend to mitigate some of the concerns of the Animal Shelter representatives in the future.
Eric Montoya, Administrative Fire Chief, stressed that the Annual Fireworks Display is a fire prevention measure, which is very important considering the drought conditions the Town is experiencing. He stated fires during the 4th of July have decreased from approximately 100 fires to approximately 20 fires since the display first began.
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| Rick Anglada, Chief of Police Consideration and approval of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Taos County, Village of Questa, Village of Red River and the Town of Taos for grant funding for the DWI program in Taos County. The MOU will provide grant funds in the amount of $14,826 which will be divided between the signing parties for an approximate amount of $3,706.50 each. These funds will be utilized to purchase police equipment for the DWI program of the Taos Police Department. Grant funds are reoccurring. | |
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| Marietta Fambro, Finance Director Consideration and approval of Resolution 11-26; Budget Adjustment Request: 1) Community Grants Fund (30) - Increase revenues and expenditures in the amount of $8,000 for a Grant received from New Mexico Department of Aging & Long Term Services to purchase and install carpet at the Ancianos Senior Center. 2) Capital Improvements Fund (51) - Increase revenues and expenditures in the amount of $9,600 for an additional amount needed to cover the total cost for Phase II design of the Eco Park by Living Designs Group. This amount is coming from revenues received from the Capital GRT 1/8% through May 2011 less any adjustments prior to this request. | |
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Councilmember Silva requested that item 8.C. be removed from the Consent Agenda for discussion. Councilmember Quintana made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda as amended. Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta seconded the motion. The motion was approved by an affirmative vote. Those voting AYE were: Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta, and Councilmembers Sanchez, Quintana and Silva.
Item 8.C. Councilmember Silva stated the Town Attorney's name in Resolution 11-26 needs to be changed from Allen Ferguson, Town Attorney, to John Clough, Interim Town Attorney.
Councilmember Silva made a motion to approve Resolution 11-26 as amended. Councilmember Sanchez seconded the motion. The motion was approved by an affirmative vote. Those voting AYE were: Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta, and Councilmembers Sanchez, Quintana and Silva.
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| Eric Montoya, Administrative Fire Chief Consideration and approval of Resolution 11-28; A resolution of the Town Council imposing Fire Restrictions (Burn Ban) for the protection of the Town of Taos and its citizens and their property. | |
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Chief Montoya stated the attorney with the New Mexico Municipal League has advised that municipalities can only restrict fireworks as allowed by state statute and in accordance with the municipality's code. He also clarified the Town can only restrict the use of fireworks; however, the Town cannot ban the use of fireworks.
Furthermore, Chief Montoya explained fireworks stands within the municipality may only sell fireworks that are permissible according to the Town Code. He further stated Resolution 11-28 is to ban agricultural burning.
Mayor Cordova stated in an effort to educate the public on which fireworks are legal and which are illegal the Town will need to do Public Service Announcements.
A discussion ensued regarding the use of fireworks and penalties for those who violate the law.
Mayor Cordova directed Mr. Miera to work with the Interim Town Attorney to determine how to address the banning of fireworks considering the extreme drought conditions.
Councilmember Silva made a motion to approve Resolution 11-28 as presented. Councilmember Quintana seconded the motion. The motion was approved by an affirmative vote. Those voting AYE were: Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta, and Councilmembers Sanchez, Quintana and Silva.
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| Loretta Trujillo, Human Resources Director Consideration and approval to create a new position within the Public Utilities Department as part of Phase II of the Reorganization Plan. The Town Manager is proposing to create the new position of Public Utilities Assistant. The purpose of this position is to provide administrative support to the Public Utilities Director and support staff to allow for administrative productivity and efficiency. Should the position be approved the Town proposes to fill this position internally through either a lateral transfer, reallocation or reorganization pursuant to Town of Taos Municipal Code 3.80.030. | |
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Mr. Miera stated the intent of creating this position is to place human resources where they are needed and explained the individual who moves into this new position will be able to make a lateral transfer. Furthermore, Mr. Miera stated the individual is currently paid from the General Fund and will be paid from the Enterprise Fund upon moving to the new position, thus saving the Town money.
Councilmember Sanchez made a motion to approve the creation of the new position within the Public Utilities Department as part of Phase II of the Reorganization Plan. Councilmember Silva seconded the motion. The motion was approved by an affirmative vote. Those voting AYE were: Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta, and Councilmembers Sanchez, Quintana and Silva.
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| William Morris, Planning and Zoning Director Consideration and approval of Resolution 11-25; A request by the owners of the Haciendas at Seco Creek for Council approval to partially vacate and re-subdivide a previously approved subdivision located along Blueberry Hill Road in the concurrent Planning and Platting Jurisdiction with Taos County. | |
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Mr. Morris explained the original 174 acre subdivision was approved for a total of twenty-four, one acre home sites located around a privately-held common area and this request is to create six lots along Blueberry Hill Road; and then create a fifty-four acre parcel and an eighty-six acre parcel. He stated both of these parcels will be limited to no more than four future parcels and fourteen future parcels, respectively. Furthermore, Mr. Morris stated the total density will not exceed twenty-four units across the entire plat and both parcels will need to go through the full subdivision requirements of the Town and County before development could occur. Additionally, Mr. Morris stated the plat will dedicate right-of-way for Blueberry Hill Road along the frontage of the subject property.
Scott Sanger, attorney representing the property owners, stated the property owners understand that if they plan to do subdivisions at the two larger plots, they must go back to the Town and County for approval.
Councilmember Sanchez made a motion to approve Resolution 11-25 as presented. Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta seconded the motion. The motion was approved by an affirmative vote. Those voting AYE were: Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta, and Councilmembers Sanchez and Quintana. Councilmember Silva abstained from the vote due to a potential or perceived conflict of interest.
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| Cathy Connelly, Public Affairs and Tourism Director Consideration and approval of Contract TT-12-08 with Griffin and Associates in the amount of $410,000 inclusive of GRT to market and advertise Taos, New Mexico, and coordinate and arrange meetings with stakeholders. This contract expires June 30, 2012. | |
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Councilmember Quintana made a motion to approve Contract TT-12-08 with Griffin and Associates as presented. Councilmember Sanchez seconded the motion. The motion was approved by an affirmative vote. Those voting AYE were: Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta, and Councilmembers Sanchez, Quintana and Silva.
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| Marietta Fambro, Finance Director (with Miranda Quintana, Grants Administrator) Consideration and approval to accept New Mexico Clean and Beautiful grant number 12-418-0000-0053 in the amount of $2,500, from the New Mexico Department of Tourism, and authorization for the Mayor to enter into a grant agreement. This grant will be used for litter eradication and beautification projects in Taos. There is no cash match for this project, in-kind services are valued at $11,800. | |
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Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta made a motion to accept New Mexico Clean and Beautiful grant number 12-418-0000-0053 in the amount of $2,500, from the New Mexico Department of Tourism. Councilmember Silva seconded the motion. The motion was approved by an affirmative vote. Those voting AYE were: Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta, and Councilmembers Sanchez, Quintana and Silva.
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| William Morris, Planning and Zoning Director Consideration and approval of Ordinance 11-11 which modifies Section 13.04.030 (Authority to Impose Drought Restrictions and Water Rationing) by proactively adding criteria to the Town Code that would implement a series of incremental water conservation steps if the need arises in the future due to drought or other type of water supply limitation. | |
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Mayor Cordova thanked Mr. Morris for his work on this ordinance. He stated the purpose of the ordinance is to avoid wasting water and to impose restrictions.
Mr. Morris stated he prepared the ordinance with the assistance of Amos Torres, Public Utilities Director, and explained the ordinance outlines a series of conditions along with five different phases for each condition. He stated Phase 1 is Normal Conditions and Phase 5 is Extreme Conditions in which the Town Council declares a state of emergency. He emphasized that even during normal conditions, citizens should try to avoid outdoor watering during the summer months.
Councilmember Quintana pointed out that the new ordinance specifies there shall be no outdoor landscape watering between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. between April 1 through November 1, even during normal conditions.
Mayor Cordova stated he is concerned about the Town's water supply because he has witnessed various businesses throughout the Town watering during the day, even when it is windy.
Mr. Miera suggested adding "Taos County" in each phase to the list of entities that are permitted to water recreation fields.
Public Opinion
Mayor Cordova opened the public hearing. No one came forward.
After closing the public hearing, Mayor Cordova asked for questions from the Council.
Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta asked if Mr. Torres indicated whether the Town's water capacity has dropped below normal. Mr. Morris stated the Town's water capacity is not below normal.
Mayor Cordova reiterated that the Town is not in a water crisis and that the ordinance is a preventive measure to protect the Town's water resources.
Councilmember Sanchez stated he would like more time to review the ordinance. Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta recommended acting on the ordinance and address amendments, if needed, at a later date after Councilmember Sanchez has had time to review the ordinance. He further stated the Town needs to start conserving water immediately and does not believe the ordinance is restrictive.
Councilmember Silva asked what the penalties may be for those who violate the ordinance. Mr. Morris explained that penalties shall be addressed in accordance with Section 13.04.310 of the Town Code, which states: Whoever violates any section of this chapter shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars ($500.00) or not more than ninety (90) days in jail or both.
Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta made a motion to approve Ordinance 11-11 as amended. Councilmember Silva seconded the motion. The motion was approved by an affirmative vote. Those voting AYE were: Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta, and Councilmembers Quintana and Silva. Councilmember Sanchez abstained from the vote.
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| William Morris, Planning and Zoning Director Consideration and approval of Ordinance 11-12; An ordinance revising the Town of Taos Land Use Development Code section 16-12-040.4 pertaining to the installation of new single-wide mobile homes within the Town of Taos municipal boundary. | |
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Mayor Cordova stated the Land Use Development Code allows mobile homes to be placed within Town limits; however, there are many unfair and burdensome restrictions including that the mobile home owner is required to notify neighboring property owners and inform them that they may review the application at the Town of Taos.
Mr. Morris presented Ordinance 11-12 to the Mayor and Council and explained the proposed change to the ordinance will allow the Town to treat mobile homes as any other residential home or structure as long as the placement complies with the zoning district and the mobile home complies with the standards of state law. Additionally, Mr. Morris emphasized the proposed ordinance would require the axle of the mobile home to be removed upon the placement of the home and further requires that the mobile home be placed on a concrete foundation.
A lengthy discussion ensued regarding the proposed changes to the ordinance. Council expressed that they did not agree with the requirement to remove the axle from the mobile home or the requirement to place the mobile home on a concrete foundation, since many Taosenos may not be able to afford to construct a concrete foundation. Rather, they requested that the requirement to remove the axle be deleted from the ordinance. They also requested that the requirement to place the mobile home on a concrete foundation be changed to require that the mobile home be anchored.
Public Opinion
Mayor Cordova opened the public hearing. No one came forward.
After closing the public hearing, Mayor Cordova asked for questions from the Council.
Councilmember Sanchez stated he believes the Planning and Zoning Commission spent a great deal of time on various ordinances and at some point, he would like to know what their rationale was.
Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta made a motion to approve Ordinance 11-12 as amended. Councilmember Silva seconded the motion. The motion was approved by an affirmative vote. Those voting AYE were: Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta, and Councilmembers Sanchez, Quintana and Silva.
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| William Morris, Planning and Zoning Director Consideration and approval of Ordinance 11-13 which modifies the sunset clause contained in Ordinance 10-27 which adopted the Interim Community Economic Development Strategic Plan. | |
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Mr. Morris presented Ordinance 11-13 to the Mayor and Council.
Public Opinion
Mayor Cordova opened the public hearing. No one came forward.
After closing the public hearing, Mayor Cordova asked for questions from the Council.
Councilmember Sanchez made a motion to approve Ordinance 11-13 as amended. Councilmember Quintana seconded the motion. The motion was approved by an affirmative vote. Those voting AYE were: Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta, and Councilmembers Sanchez, Quintana and Silva.
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11. MATTERS FROM THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL/YOUTH COUNCILMEMBER
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Ms. Spray was not able to attend the meeting and, therefore, requested that a special workshop meeting be scheduled for her presentation. Mayor Cordova directed the Town Manager to coordinate with the Town Clerk to schedule the workshop meeting.
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| Resolution 11-27 Consideration and approval of Resolution 11-27 supporting the banning of inhumane animal trapping on New Mexico public lands through the steel-jaw traps, kill-type traps, snare traps and any modified version of such traps. | |
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THIS ITEM WAS HEARD AFTER CITIZENS FORUM
Mayor Cordova introduced Peggy Nelson and stated she is advocating a ban on animal trapping on public lands. Ms. Nelson stated she became involved in the initiative when her good friend and neighbor, Arifa Goodman, was trapped and injured in late December of 2010.
Ms. Goodman explained she was walking outside her home in San Cristobal when her dog became trapped in a leg-hold trap and in trying rescue her dog, she too became trapped. She stated she was fortunate to have been able to walk away with the trap to seek help; however, some traps are stuck in the ground so those who are trapped cannot walk away for help. She stated traps are very dangerous, as so many people use public lands for many different activities. She further stated her experience was frightening and painful.
Ms. Nelson stated, through her research, she discovered trapping is a very legal practice in New Mexico and also discovered there is an extensive list of trapping regulations. Furthermore, Ms. Nelson stated several different types of animals become trapped including animals that are of threatened and endangered species.
Mayor Cordova commended Ms. Nelson and stated he is pleased she is pursuing a resolution to ban traps. He read Resolution 11-27 for the record.
Councilmember Quintana thanked Ms. Goodman for sharing her story.
Councilmember Silva made a motion to approve Resolution 11-27 as presented. Councilmember Quintana seconded the motion. The motion was approved by an affirmative vote. Those voting AYE were: Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta, and Councilmembers Sanchez, Quintana and Silva.
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| KidSpace Proposal Discussion and possible direction regarding KidSpace proposal to use Taos Convention Center for a central youth activity center for the children of the community. | |
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Gina Cerruto, KidSpace Representative, presented the KidSpace proposal.
Councilmember Quintana asked Mr. Clough to clarify the memorandum he submitted to the Mayor and Council regarding the legalities of the matter. Mr. Clough stated it is very difficult to make a determination because this is only a proposal and there is no legal form as of yet; however, in general terms he believes that there are many legal issues associated with this matter. He also stated as a general rule, the Anti-Donation Clause prohibits the use of the Town's materials, staff, and money for any private enterprise including non-profits. He stated there may be some ways to work with that concern and other legal issues; however, he will need additional direction from the Council in order to do so.
Mayor Cordova reiterated that the Council needs to give direction to Mr. Clough whether they desire to move forward with this initiative so that he can fully determine how it can be legally accomplished. He asked the Council if they believe the Town can afford to pay $45,000 for utilities and $75,000 in start-up costs.
Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta stated he does not believe the Council is ready to act at this time since there is so much to consider. Councilmember Silva stated although the plan is a good plan and the children of Taos do need more activities, he agrees with Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta. Councilmember Quintana stated she believes the program should be smaller and suggested that KidSpace use only a portion of the convention center. Councilmember Sanchez stated he does not believe the timing is good as the Town has many other initiatives including supporting high altitude training at the Eco Park.
Mayor Cordova directed Ms. Cerruto to bring a new proposal requesting the use of the entire convention facility and another proposal for the use of only the facilities located in Coronado Hall and Don Fernando Hall.
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Mr. Miera explained that Council directed staff to make changes to the Council Setaside Budget that was presented at the May 19, 2011 Annual Budget Hearing. He presented the proposed budget which includes the changes as requested by Council.
Councilmembers Silva, Quintana and Sanchez expressed they would like to revert the funding allocated for out of state travel to attend the NALEO Conference. Councilmember Silva also requested to revert the funding for him to attend MOLI training. The total amount reverted was $7,740.00
Councilmember Sanchez requested that the allocation for Taos County Economic Development Corporation be increased from the budgeted amount of $5,000 to $10,000. He also requested that the allocation for Taos Local Television be increased from the budgeted amount of $45,000 to $48,000.
Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta made a motion to tentatively approve the Council Setaside Budget as amended. Councilmember Quintana seconded the motion. The motion was approved by an affirmative vote. Those voting AYE were: Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta, and Councilmembers Sanchez, Quintana and Silva.
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| Mayor Pro Tem Rudy Abeyta Discussion and possible approval of 2011-2012 funding for Taos Eco Park increasing amount from $80,000 to $120,000. | |
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Mayor Cordova stated he met with Taos Sports Alliance (TSA) and their request is $105,000 rather than $120,000 as stated on the agenda. He stated this request is for the management of the Taos Eco Park.
Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta stated this allocation is essential considering that the Town is focusing on the high altitude training effort. He also stated the funding will be used to manage and maintain the park and also to market the park.
Councilmember Quintana asked if the $105,000 will be used for the salary of the Executive Director of TSA. Mayor Cordova stated he believes the salary of the Executive Director of TSA is approximately $60,000 and the remainder will be used for the operational management of the park.
Councilmember Silva stated he would like to see a breakdown of TSA's request to include the deliverables.
Mayor Cordova directed staff to ensure that procurement is adhered to.
Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta made a motion to tentatively approve 2011-2012 funding for Taos Eco Park increasing the amount from $80,000 to $105,000. Councilmember Sanchez seconded the motion. The motion was approved by an affirmative vote. Those voting AYE were: Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta, and Councilmembers Sanchez and Silva. Councilmember Quintana did not vote because she stepped out of the meeting for a moment.
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| Mayor Pro Tem Rudy Abeyta Discussion and possible approval of 2011-2012 funding for the Guadalupe Gym Lease in the amount of $15,000. | |
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Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta stated Our Lady of Guadalupe Gym is used by hundreds of children and adults on a daily basis and is an ongoing program. He directed staff to locate $15,000 for the lease of the gym.
Mr. Miera clarified in the past the lease was funded by proceeds of the Cigarette Tax, which the Town no longer acquires. He stated the total amount to lease the gym is $18,750 which includes the lease, utilities and cleaning and maintenance supplies.
Furthermore, Mr. Miera stated in his discussions with Brian Greer, Youth & Family Center Director, Mr. Greer has identified funding for the lease of the gym; however, this would affect other children's activities.
Mayor Cordova stated he is concerned about the effects of this action and does not want to cut children's programs. Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta requested that staff seek funds in the General Fund and refrain from cutting children's programs.
Mr. Miera stated he will direct Ms. Fambro to move forward in allocating funds for the lease of Our Lady of Guadalupe Gym and report back on her findings.
Councilmember Silva made a motion to tentatively approve the funding for Our Lady of Guadalupe Gym Lease in the amount of $18,750, while not affecting other children's activities. Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta seconded the motion. The motion was approved by an affirmative vote. Those voting AYE were: Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta, and Councilmembers Quintana and Silva. Councilmember Sanchez did not vote because he stepped out of the meeting for a moment.
Mr. Miera reported to the Council that the one-time lump sum benefit has been reinstated in the budget in the amount of $112,000.
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| Camino de la Placita and Plaza South Road Intersection | |
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Mr. Morris and Francisco "French" Espinoza, Public Works Director, presented a proposal to place new sidewalks and crosswalks at the intersection of Camino de la Placita and Plaza South Road intersection in order to provide safe pedestrian crossing. Mr. Morris stated there is a concern whether the pedestrian traffic at this intersection is efficient and safe and further stated staff has reviewed the situation and is proposing specific improvements in the area.
A lengthy discussion ensued regarding the various plans that were submitted by staff. The Council directed staff to provide a proposal for Plan A which includes removing the blacktop in the right-of-way, and installing new sidewalks and valley gutters. The Type E valley gutters would allow cars to be able to park and will allow pedestrians a proper place to walk. Furthermore, the projected cost is $5,600.
Mr. Espinoza stated funds for the project is allocated in the Public Works general operations budget.
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| Sidewalk on Camino de la Placita across Guadalupe Parking Lot | |
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Councilmember Sanchez asked if the sidewalk on Camino de la Placita across from the Guadalupe Parking Lot is on public right-of-way. He stated a business owner is planning to build a new stairway on that sidewalk.
Mr. Espinoza stated the sidewalk is indeed on public right-of-way and stated the existing ramp and stairway does not meet ADA regulations. He further stated a new stairway would more than likely not be approved; however, the existing stairway may remain.
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Mayor Cordova stated there has been another accident at the Recycling Center and asked Mr. Espinoza what the plans are to make the parking lot safer.
Mr. Espinoza stated he has budgeted funds to build a fence in the interior of the Town Yard to eliminate on-street parking in order to make the area safer for citizens.
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Councilmember Silva stated he received a call from a business owner on Dea Lane who complained about speeding cars that have wrecked into his fence about four or five different times.
Mr. Espinoza stated he has not received any calls; however, he has witnessed people speeding in the area. He recommended the Town consider the installation of a graveled speed hump and also asked if the Taos Police Department could patrol the area more often.
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| One-Way Streets in Downtown Area | |
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Councilmember Quintana asked Mr. Espinoza for a proposal to re-route traffic in the Downtown area onto one-way streets.
Mayor Cordova clarified that Mr. Espinoza needs direction from the entire Council before proceeding as this would require a lot of work. He further stated the best way to improve traffic flow is to improve connectivity to the side streets.
Upon discussion of the one-way pair, the Council directed Mr. Espinoza to share studies that have already been conducted. Mr. Espinoza stated there have been about three traffic studies within the last fifteen years and explained that in order to do a one-way pair, a significant amount of parking would need to be provided and the side streets would need to be rearranged as well. He also stated the Salazar Road extension and Este Es improvements will assist with relieving traffic and asked the Council to come by his office to review the studies he has since they are very large documents.
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| Taos Eco Park Priorities | |
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Mayor Cordova stated staff needs direction with regard to the next phase of the Eco Park construction.
A discussion ensued regarding whether a grass field or a synthetic field should be constructed. Mayor Cordova directed Mr. Miera to determine how much funding is needed for Phase II of the Eco Park and stated Council can decide whether to construct a grass field or a synthetic field at a later date.
The Council also authorized Councilmember Sanchez to work with the architect on the design of Phase II.
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Councilmember Quintana
made a motion to go into Executive Session to discuss limited personnel matters regarding the Town Manager and the Airport Manager pursuant to NMSA 1978 10-15-1-H.2.
Councilmember Sanchez seconded the motion. The motion was confirmed by an affirmative vote. Those voting AYE were: Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta, and Councilmembers Sanchez, Quintana and Silva.
At 7:55 p.m., Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta
made a motion to come out of Executive Session and stated discussion in the Executive Session was limited to the item as it was called for. Councilmember Sanchez
seconded the motion. The motion was confirmed by an affirmative vote. Those voting AYE were: Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta, and Councilmembers Sanchez, Quintana and Silva.
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A motion was made by
Mayor Pro Tem Abeyta and seconded by Councilmember Sanchez to adjourn the meeting. The motion carried unanimously and the meeting adjourned at 7:55 p.m.
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APPROVED: | ________________________________________ |
Darren M. Cordova, Mayor
| | ATTEST: | ________________________________________ |
Renee Lucero, Town Clerk
| PLEASE NOTE: The Town of Taos records most Town Council Meetings via audio, however, only Regular Town Council Meetings and some Special Town Council Meetings, with controversial issues, are video recorded. Copies are available upon request at the Town Clerk's Office located at 400 Camino de la Placita (575-751-2005) at a fee of $5.00 for audio recordings and $10.00 for video recordings. |
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