HomeMy WebLinkAbout03.15.21 Work Session Minutes CITY OF FARMINGTON
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
WORK SESSION
MARCH 15,2021
Call to Order
Mayor Hoyt called the work session to order at 7:50 P.m.
Roll Call
Present-Hoyt, Bernhjelm, Pearson, Porter and Wilson
Absent-None
Also Present-Administrator McKnight, Public Works Director Gehler, Community Development Director
Kienberger and Planning Manager Wippler.
Agenda
Motion by Porter,second by Bernhjelm,to approve the agenda as amended adding a discussion on the
Vita Attiva PUD.APIF, motion carried.
Vita Attiva PUD
Planning Manager Wippler reviewed the status of the Vita Attiva PUD. City staff is recommending
denying the schematic plan based on the issues listed in the findings of fact.
City councilmembers asked a variety of questions on the project and recent changes. The members had
concerns with the consistency of the message being sent by the city. The issues raised at the previous
meeting were two accesses and city financial contributions. The plan included in the packet now has
Spruce Street extending to the east and connecting to the square about. Concerns were still expressed
about any current or future city financial obligation related to this development.
John Anderson representing the developer expressed his frustration on this process. He feels the goals
keep changing and they just want to know what they have to do to make this develop occur. He stated
they are pretty close to a deal with the Adelman's on the use of the property for the Spruce Street
extension and have an agreement with the Peterson family for them to build the west half of Spruce
Street on the north side of this development when their property to the north develops.
Councilmembers expressed support for the development concept but the issues need to be worked out
so they can make a decision.
Jeff DeCaser, representing the Peterson family, stated that this area needs to be looked at on a larger
scale to decisions can be made in a wider context.
Terry Donnelly shared that this scenario surprised him. He has worked with staff and the Planning
Commission and they are not being treated properly. He has read everything on this development. He
has no issue with development but no city tax dollars should be spent. Encouraged everyone to calm
down and talk these issues through.
Councilmembers asked staff,the developer and other area parties to sit down again and discuss the
issues.
Mayor Hoyt asked the developer about timelines. Paul Whiteman stated that time is critical at this
point.
City staff will discuss this issue and determine next steps on this development.
City Council Team Development
Councilmember Wilson talked about continued steps the city council can take to continue their team
development and improve communication.
Members talked about some recent examples of where concerns exists.
All members agreed that issues should be put on the table for discussion. The members shared that
these are not personal issues. Communication and team building efforts will continue with the city
council and staff.
Administrator McKnight shared that he will be more specific on items when looking for city council
direction.
City Administrator Update
None
Adjourn
Motion by Bernhjelm,second by Wilson,to adjourn the meeting at 9:50 p.m. APIF, motion carried.