The Regular Meeting of the Taos Town Council was called to order by the Honorable Mayor Daniel R. Barrone at 1:04 p.m. 

Ms. Renee Lucero, Town Clerk, called roll and a quorum was present.  

Those present were:      
Mayor, Daniel R. Barrone      
Mayor Pro Tem, George “Fritz” Hahn
Councilmember, Judith Y. Cantu       
Councilmember, Andrew T. Gonzales
Councilmember, Frederick A. Peralta         

Also present were:      
Town Manager, Richard Bellis

Town Attorney, Floyd Lopez
Town Clerk, Renee Lucero

Lynda Perry led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Delete Item 11.D. - Contract TT-15-17 Amendment 2 with Souder, Miller and Associates.

Tamara Chavez, Human Resources Director, stated the Employee Recognition Team selected Ms. Romero as the Town of Taos September Employee of the Month due to her positive energy, knowledge of the job and hardworking skills, making her a valuable asset for the Town of Taos.

Mayor Barrone thanked Ms. Romero for her commitment to the Town of Taos and keeping the Mayor and Town Manager's Office in order. 

Luis Reyes, Jr., Kit Carson Electric Chief Executive Officer, provided a lengthy report on several projects Kit Carson Electric is working on.  Mr. Reyes also provided an update on the broadband project and stated the first major phase is complete.  Obstacles were encountered during the project; however, there is now a functioning network with speeds and capacities that were promised.  He further stated as the Town moves forward with infrastructure projects, he believes the Town and Kit Carson Electric should collaborate on coordination of projects.

Mr. Cross discussed several holiday markets that take place at night.  He explained the markets are well-lit, have local produce, arts and crafts.  Taos Farmers Market has been hosting an indoor holiday market for the past four years.  He would like to create an event in conjunction with the lighting of Ledoux Street to create a larger event. In order to do this, some of the Town's streets would need to be closed.  He requested the Council's feedback on this initiative. He would like to see this for two nights over three weekends, or more depending on if a large enough crowd is drawn.

Mr. Bellis stated he has discussed three weekends with the Town's marketing firm.  Feedback has been that separate events have been great for locals; however, it would be beneficial to attract visitors during the entire holiday season. 

Councilmember Peralta recommended combining the tree lighting ceremony with Ledoux Street lighting to make them one.

Mr. Cross stated having the event for two days will attract people to come to Taos for two days, rather than one.

Mr. Bellis stated he would like the Council to make a decision as soon as possible so that hotels can be notified and the event can be promoted.

Mayor Barrone asked what would be sold at the market.  Mr. Cross stated there would be local produce, festive foods, wine and local arts and crafts.  He further stated he can address any concerns the Council may have. 

Extensive discussion ensued regarding specifics of the event such as set up time, road closures and the number of booths (approximately 60).

Councilmember Hahn expressed concern about this event not going through the event RFP process, as other events have had to go through that process.  Mr. Bellis stated the event RFP process is a funding process and based on availability of funding. He does not believe this is out of the process. The funds would be used for advertising.

Councilmember Hahn stated he wants to hear from the Plaza Merchants to see how they feel about this prior to the Town making a commitment. Councilmember Cantu stated she believes it is the Town Manager's responsibility to get in touch with the Plaza Merchants.

Mayor Barrone asked Mr. Cross to conduct additional research on the event and provide a proposal to the Council.

Mr. Bellis stated he would like to place an ad in the newspaper this week regarding a meeting to discuss the upcoming holiday season, lighting and other downtown issues.

Mr. Oisen-Vreeke provided a brief report on the thirty-six hotel inspections he conducted. He explained that many hotels had Fire Department violations and discussed how he met with the owners to help bring them into compliance.  He further stated many hotels are now in compliance while others are still working on correcting issues.

Mr. Lopez stated there are criminal penalties in accordance with the Town Code if issues are not corrected.

Ms. Skansi stated three hotels were structurally in poor condition and Mr. Oisen-Vreeke will provide a report on the structures to the Mayor and Council at a later date.

The following citizens came forward to speak:

• David Henry, Licensed Architect in Taos, congratulated the Town on the Infrastructure Capital Improvements Plan (ICIP).  He stated the projects are large and important and he believes they can provide jobs for citizens  Furthermore he stated the ICIP is a great planning document.  Mr. Henry requested that the Taos County Courthouse renovation continue to be supported by the Town as it should not totally be the responsibility of Taos County.

Discussion, consideration and possible approval of Resolution 15-37 accepting grant 3-35-0041-0033-2015 offered by the Federal Aviation Administration in an amount of up to $16,162,352. This budget will support phase 2 construction of runway 12/30, rejuvenation of existing runway 4/22, airfield lighting, perimeter fencing and project administration at the Taos Regional Airport and authorizing Mayor Barrone to have signature authority for completion of the grant agreement.

Discussion, consideration and possible approval of Resolution 15-38 accepting grant SKX 16-03 offered by the New Mexico Department of Transportation Aviation Division in the amount of $897,909. This budget will support phase 2 construction of runway 12/30, rejuvenation of existing runway 4/22, airfield lighting, perimeter fencing and project administration at the Taos Regional Airport and authorizing Mayor Barrone to have signature authority for completion of the grant agreement.

Discussion, consideration and possible approval of Resolution 15-40 Budget Adjustment Request to the following:  Lodger's Tax Promotion Fund - Increase expenditures in the amount of $50,000 to cover the total amount needed to amend Atlas' contract to include fall advertising and an additional $50,000 for Town marketing/advertising of winter, spring and summer events, totaling $100,000.

Community Grants Fund - Increase revenues and expenditures in the amount of $19,986 to account for the 2012 GO Bonds for the Library that were not carried over from fiscal year 2014-2015.

Discussion, consideration and possible approval and acceptance of the Water and Sewer Master Plan.

Councilmember Cantu requested that Item 9.C, and D. be removed for discussion.

Councilmember Gonzales made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda as amended.  Councilmember Peralta seconded the motion.  The motion passed.  The Councilmembers voted as follows:  Ayes: Cantu, Gonzales, Hahn, Peralta.  

Item 9.C. Resolution 15-39 Annual Inventory Certification

Councilmember Cantu stated she has not had the time to review the back-up documentation and would like to do so prior to voting. 

Marietta Fambro, Finance Director, explained this is for new moveable equipment worth more than $5,000.  The report was requested by the auditors.

Councilmember Peralta asked if any equipment could not be accounted for during the inventory.  Janice Martinez, the previous Fixed Assets Clerk, stated yes and she worked with each individual department.  She explained the report is a work in progress and the items listed are the items that have been accounted for. Items that are outstanding and need further research are not included.  Councilmember Peralta stated he believes the inventory must to be 100% complete before it can be approved.  If there are items that are missing, they should be listed and stated as unaccounted for.

Councilmember Peralta made a motion to direct staff  to complete the report and bring it back for Council approval as soon as possible.  Councilmember Cantu seconded the motion. The motion passed.  The Councilmembers voted as follows:  Ayes: Cantu, Gonzales, Hahn, Peralta.  

Item 9.D. Resolution 15-40 Budget Adjustment Request

Councilmember Cantu asked for clarification on the item.  Mr. Bellis stated this is to move funds consistent with the action taken at the last meeting.  Councilmember Cantu stated she is aware of the $50,000 to increase the marketing contract; however, not the additional $50,000.  Ms. Fambro stated the additional $50,000 will need to go out as an RFP for marketing winter, spring and summer events.

Councilmember Peralta stated in the future, Budget Adjustment Requests should be approved before the expenditure. 

Councilmember Peralta made a motion approve Resolution 15-40.  Councilmember Gonzales seconded the motion. The motion passed.  The Councilmembers voted as follows:  Ayes: Cantu, Gonzales, Hahn, Peralta.

Discussion, consideration and possible approval of Ordinance 15-07; An Ordinance amending five sections of title 16 of the Town of Taos Town Code, specifically  1) Section 16.16.220.8: Standards For Noncontributing Properties; 2) Section 16.16.220.12: Historic Overlay Zone Review Administrative Permit Process And Certificate Of Appropriateness Process; 3) Section 16.20.030.1: Standards For Commercial And Industrial Structures And For "Large Scale" Development; 4) Section 6.20.040.4: Design Standards For Off Street Parking; and 5) Section 16.24.040.1: Intent And Purpose.

Louis Fineberg, Planning, Community and Economic Development Director, presented Ordinance 15-07 to the Mayor and Council. He stated this ordinance amends five sections of the code.  He then reviewed each amendment and explained how the amendments will affect the code.

Councilmember Peralta referred to Section 16.24.040.1 that deals with summary procedure for approval of subdivisions.  He expressed concern that a person can subdivide their property, then two years later, subdivide it again.  Mr. Fineberg explained the person would need to wait five years, in accordance with state law, before subdividing the property again.

Public Opinion

Mayor Barrone opened the public hearing.  No one came forward.

After closing the public hearing, Mayor Barrone asked for questions from the Council.

Councilmember Hahn made a motion to approve Ordinance 15-07.  Councilmember Peralta seconded the motion.

For discussion, Councilmember Peralta asked for clarification on whether corner lots can have front parking on two sides.  Mr. Fineberg stated yes, if certain conditions are met.  He further stated for example, Walgreens has parking on the front and side and has only one driving isle and two rows of parking. This is acceptable.

Extensive discussion ensued regarding parking requirements.

Councilmember Peralta asked if this was approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission.  Mr. Fineberg stated yes and it was approved as it is being presented today.

The motion passed.  The Councilmembers voted as follows:  Ayes: Cantu, Gonzales, Peralta, Hahn.

Lynda Perry, Grants and Revenue Development Director, presented the Infrastructure Capital Improvements Plan to the Mayor and Council.

Ms. Perry stated she and Mr. Bellis met with the Management Team and prioritized the projects.  She further stated the list was adjusted based on the Council's input at the last public hearing. She reviewed each of the projects.

Public Opinion

Mayor Barrone opened the public hearing.  No one came forward.

After closing the public hearing, Mayor Barrone asked for questions from the Council.

Councilmember Peralta asked for clarification of the second project - Wastewater Systems Phase I.  Ms. Perry stated the project is currently in process and she was directed to include it at the last meeting.  Councilmember Peralta asked to see what the balance of the project is. Francisco "French" Espinoza, Public Works Director, stated he will provide that information to Councilmember Peralta. 

Councilmember Peralta further stated in the future the Town indicate potential funding sources for the projects.  Mr. Bellis stated there is another spreadsheet that indicates funding sources and he will share it with the Council.

Councilmember Hahn asked for an explanation of the Camino de la Merced project and the purpose of it being ranked so high at a priority six.  Mr. Espinoza stated it was ranked high because staff was considering applying for CDBG funds for it; instead the Town decided to pursue CDBG funds for the Youth and Family Center. 

Councilmember Hahn stated he is concerned that the Youth and Family Center Roof Repairs Project is ranked lower than Camino de la Merced.  Mr. Bellis stated road projects are always ranked high because they are likely to get funded from the Department of Transportation.  He further stated the Council has the discretion to move the projects up on the priority list. 

Discussion ensued regarding the current CDBG project that is still not under contract but needs to be complete by the end of the year in order to apply for additional funds next year.  Mr. Bellis clarified delay in receiving the grant agreement is out of the Town's control.

Mayor Barrone discussed the possibility of repurposing the Eco Park to include use for softball fields.  He stated the fields are not being utilized the way they should be and softball tournaments would bring a lot of visitors into Taos.  Mr. Bellis stated a redesign of the field is being considered and studied by staff.

Ms. Fambro provided the Financial Report as follows:

Revenues - Gross Receipts Tax; July's tax distribution (May's activity) increased 11.63% compared to 2014-2015. The most significant categorical increases were in Retail Trade at $37,855 (14.01%) and Accommodation & Food Services at $22,286 (19.54%). The most significant categorical decreases were in Unclassified Establishments at $11,269 (69.50%) and Utilities at $5,439 (17.99%). Other than court fines and administration fees, the remaining revenues in general fund decreased in July. Included in the report are the Fire Code Inspection Fees of $962 for the month of July, which is a new revenue source derived by an ordinance change.

Expenditures – As the new fiscal year begins, actual expenditures for July are reflected on the monthly report for comparisons to last fiscal year. The decrease in the Fire Department is contributed to $20,000 for the fireworks display which was paid this August versus July of last year. In addition, Town Council Set-Aside decreased due to the New Mexico Municipal League dues of $19,475 paid this August versus July of last year. Other than the items stated above, the remainder of the departments are within their allowed budget considering this is the first reporting period.

Ending Balance – The new fiscal year began with the required 1/12 reserve of $882,804 and the additional reserve fund of $1,470,882. There are no projections at this time; however, the increase experienced in the first month can be anticipated to be allocated to the reserves.

Capital Projects - Expenditures during the month of July were only in the Capital/Operating One-Time Costs fund.  Included was the cost of public meeting notices for the zoning of the annexation properties in the amount of $5,897 and $1,071 for banners for the Cesar Chavez event. Purchase Orders issued were for current projects that still need to be completed such as the Airport Construction, Weimer Water Improvements and the Pot Hole Repair Project.

Councilmember Peralta stated, if the 12% increase stands, perhaps the additional funds ($200,000) can be used for repairs at the Youth and Family Center.

Ms. Fambro stated this is the final approval in accordance with State Statutes.

Councilmember Cantu expressed concern that money was not allocated for a lobbyist and she believes the Town needs an advocate at the legislature.  Mayor Barrone stated money was not allocated because there was a shortfall in funds when the budget was being prepared.  He further stated if GRT trends continue upward, an allocation can be considered.

Councilmember Hahn stated Mr. Bellis and the Mayor did a great job advocating for the Town at the legislature last year. 

Regarding Councilmember Cantu's concern about the condition of the streets, weeds, potholes and signage within the Town, Mr. Bellis stated he has asked the Public Works Department and the Facilities Department to address some of the concerns; however, the Town is short on staff.  An alternative would be to close the Town for business and have Town employees clean; however, the Town cannot force employees to participate. 

Discussion ensued regarding maintenance of the streets and alleys in the historic district. 

Discussion, consideration and possible action with regards to the repair and/or transfer of the Phil Lovato (Ancianos) Senior Center.

Mayor Barrone recommended transferring the Phil Lovato Senior Center to Taos County.  He stated the building is well utilized by the seniors and it constantly requires upgrades and maintenance.  Additionally, the Mayor stated the County has found money to expand and improve the building.

Councilmember Peralta stated if the County wants the building, then they should buy it. 

Councilmember Hahn stated he supports the Mayor and made a motion to inquire with the County on whether they want to take over the building.  

Mr. Bellis clarified that Taos County has already requested the building because they have received grant funding money to improve the building.  There are also financing opportunities; however, a lease purchase would need to be in place.  Given the condition of the building, it has been suggested that it is more practical to convey the building to the County. He recommended conveying the building with two conditions: 1) the Town's $30,000 allocation for Ancianos would end; and 2) there would be a clause that if the building is not being used as a senior citizen center that benefits the citizens of the Town of Taos, the building would revert back to the Town unless it is agreed upon otherwise.

Councilmember Hahn included Mr. Bellis' recommendation in his motion. Councilmember Cantu seconded the motion.

For discussion, Councilmember Cantu stated she support Ancianos because they are a vital part of the community.

The motion passed.  The Councilmembers voted as follows:  Ayes: Cantu, Gonzales, Hahn, Peralta.

Mayor Barrone stated he recommends appointing Robbie Knight to the Airport Advisory Board. He further stated the Board recommended Mr. Knight as well.

Mr. Bellis stated during the airport hearings with Taos County, the County made a specific request to appoint someone who represented a neighborhood association.

Councilmember Peralta made a motion to approve the appointment and directed staff to amend the ordinance to increase the number of members on the Airport Advisory Board from five to seven members. Councilmember Gonzales seconded the motion.  The motion passed.  The Councilmembers voted as follows:  Ayes: Cantu, Gonzales, Hahn, Peralta.

Councilmember Cantu discussed several issues including the New Mexico Municipal League Annual Conference, resurfacing of Taos Plaza, National Hispanic Heritage Month celebration in Albuquerque, Couse Parking Lot, and the China trip that will be paid directly by Councilmembers if they choose to go.  She also expressed concern about an email that went to Town employees asking for volunteers to work at the Barn Dance.

Furthermore, Councilmember Cantu referred to Section 12 of Mr. Bellis' contract which provides procedures for the Town Manager's annual evaluation.  She stated as part of the Council's responsibility, she wants this on next Council agenda. Mayor Barrone stated he has sealed evaluations in his office and invited Councilmember Cantu to review them with him.  Councilmember Cantu stated she believes the evaluation should be done according to the contract.

Councilmember Hahn clarified the Barn Dance is a Town sponsored event and he does not have a problem with Town employees volunteering.

Councilmember Gonzales made a motion to go into Executive Session.  Councilmember Peralta seconded the motion. The motion was Passed.  The Councilmembers voted as follows: Ayes: Cantu, Gonzales, Hahn, Peralta.

At 5:51 p.m., Councilmember Gonzales made a motion to come out of Executive Session. Councilmember Cantu seconded the motion. The motion was Passed.  The Councilmembers voted as follows: Ayes: Cantu, Gonzales, Hahn, Peralta.

Floyd Lopez, Town Attorney, stated discussion in the Executive Session was limited to the items as they were called for and no action was taken. Councilmember Gonzales made a motion to accept Mr. Lopez's report.  Councilmember Peralta seconded the motion. The motion was Passed.  The Councilmembers voted as follows: Ayes: Cantu, Gonzales, Hahn, Peralta.

A motion was made by Councilmember Gonzales and seconded by Councilmember Cantu to adjourn the meeting.  The motion carried unanimously and the meeting adjourned at 5:53 p.m.