05-09-2002 Planning Comm. Minutes

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M_INIITT!,S PLANNING COMMISSION MAY 9, 2002 I3US BENCHIrS The Deputy Clerk reported that the Commission had previously recommended approval of an ordinance allowing the installation of bus benches by private companies within the City. However, as part of a recent goal setting session, one of the goals identified was the need to promote the community's identity. Based on that goal, the Council discussed the possibility of utilizing bus benches as a means of doing this. 'Therefore, the Council asked City staff to prepare a report on actual usage as well as develop a recommendation for a bus bench location plan. The Council has asked that the Commission review this information along with the concept of utilizing bus benches to promote Little Canada's identify. I<eis reported that although Dan Knudsen could not be present this evening, he asI<ed that the Commission be informed that he supports the original proposal to amend the ordinance to installation of bus benches by private companies. Knudsen felt that this provided a service to residents of the City that utilize the benches as well as a source of advertisement for local businesses. Duray indicated that he supported the staff's recommendation that the City utilize bus benches as a means of promoting community identity. Duray felt that rather than the City paying for the installation of bus benches, that local business or groups sponsor the cost of benches. If a business did sponsor a bench, a small plaque could be attached to the bench aclrnowledging the donation. Duray felt that this program would limit advertising along the City's rights-of--way. Duray also indicated that he likes the looks of the City benches that have been installed along Little Canada Road. He also pointed out that based on staff's report, there does not appear to be a great need for these benches. Roycraft agreed, and suggested that City Look toward the future and the image it wants to project Roycraft also indicated that there appears to be both a lack of interest and necessity for bus benches. Roycraft stated that he understands the concerns of U.S. Bench in maintaining their business, however, he considers these benches to be visual pollution. Roycraft felt that at a minimum the City should install its own benches i^ redevelopment areas with perhaps private benches along the outlying areas of the City. Roland Danielson, U. S. Bench, outlined the long history his company has in providing bus benches in the City. He also noted the company's cooperative efforts with the City in removing benches from both the redevelopment area as well as other areas as requested. Danielson reported that while they previously had 13 benches in Little Canada, they have relooked at the City, and would now propose that no more than 8 to 7-