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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1999 - MINUTES - 9/29/1999 - STUDY SESSIONCOUNCIL STUDY SESSION SEPTEMBER 29, 1999 All present ADJOURNED MEETING-See City Council Minutes September 29, 1999. 1. CLOSED SESSION - report by City Attorney, see attached agenda 2. PUBLIC COMMENTS: None 3. COUNCIL COMMENTS: None 4. CITY MANAGER COMMENTS: None 5. PRESENTATION 1999 BUSINESS RETENTION AND EXPANSION Director of Economic Development stated that the BREP Survey was very informative and functional; that the survey established a more open communication line with the business community, created a baseline of data to work from, and educated the economic development department with what types of businesses and concerns there are in the Community. Kay Hazen, Committee Members acknowledged the other members of the committee, Linda Krengel, Mike Russell, and Kathy VanHorn, and reviewed the survey results, copy attached. After discussion, the following points were made: the welcoming letter to new business should come from the Council, not just the Mayor; that being a member of the Coachella Valley Economic Development Partnership is helpful; that the information will be analyzed and acted on as a whole, not just from individual comments; that there is a concern of quality of workforce available in the Valley; that the City Departments need to communicate better with new and old businesses; that 50% of the businesses want to relocate; that the non-budgeted items should come forward at the meeting of 10/20/99 and items that need budget consideration at study session on 10/27/99. 6. BUSINESS LICENSE FEES FOR SWAP MEETS Director of Finance and Treasurer stated that the issue centers around Tel Phil taking over the MarketPlace as a swap meet; that Tel Phil currently operates the Orange County Swap Meet; that the rate suggested are based on what the vendors at Villagefest are charged. City Attorney stated that staff is not stating that the fees should be lowered, but that the level currently in the Ordinance is a problem; that if the rates are lowered, it will be hard to get an increase, that the rates going higher will be subject to Prop 218; that an agreement could be entered into between the City and Tel Phil; and that the Ordinance would not be changed. Ernie Noia, representative for Tel Phil stated that the event in Costa Mesa is successful; that Tel Phil has run the operation for 30 years; that there are strict regulations and controls that are set into place; that the sales revenue is high; that something needs to be done with the property; that Planning has in fact approved the proposal; that one suggestion may be to allow swap meets with over 200 vendors have a lower rate; that Tel Council Study Session 9-29-99, Page 2 Phil will not consider opening if the charge is not changed; that the event will run on Friday, Saturday and Sunday and will not conflict with Villagefest; that the effect on Downtown will be minimal, due to different type of clientele; that the vendor is looking at a 65 year lease, which shows a commitment to the City; that Tel Phil is going to try factory outlet store for the site, that if anyone can make a go of the property, Tel Phil can; that it is important to gear up and get started. Members of the Council stated that the idea sound good for the City; but the concern is how the sales tax is reported, and that it is reported correctly. City Attorney suggested that a Development Agreement be worked out with the parties and brought back to Council for approval. Charles Duke stated that he does deal with the property on a day to day basis; that it has been vacant for two years; that the owner is anxious to lease the property; that it is the best deal to come forward so far; that Tel Phil does monitor its vendors; and that the City of Costa Mesa does get its fair share. Councilmember Hodges stated that something needs to be done with the property; that it needs to start moving along; that the sales tax issue has always been a concern for the City; and suggested the project move forward. Mayor stated that consensus of the Council was for City Attorney and Tel Phil to work out an agreement and bring it back to Council for approval. Mr. Noia submitted a video tape regarding the Orange County Swap Meet. 7. U.S. FILTER NEGOTIATION UPDATE Assistant City Manager-Operations reviewed a staff report, copy attached. Mayor stated that this discussion is a vehicle to clarify the issues concerning actions taken regarding US Filter. Adjourned: 9:40 p.m.