Freedon Heard in City Chambers

December 12^th City Council Workshop Meeting began in the City Hall Lobby with my meeting Sheila Smith, representing The Christian Science Society of St. George and member of the Inter-Faith Churches that represent St. George at large. This was to be the third year Ms. Smith was to give the invocation at the beginning of the City Council Meeting.

Also gathering in the lobby was the Pine View High School Choir who had been invited to sing before the council. No finer gathering of youth will you ever find than these young men and women. What an outstanding display of talent.  KUDOS to Pine View High School.

The beautiful sound of FREEDOM was heard as recognition came when the Choir sang CHRISTMAS SONGS and the INVOCATION spoke to what Christmas celebrated.  My friends, the fact that we as a city, as a nation, can still gather and hear expressions that we may not all appreciate or find value in is a monument to what America is all about. Yes, this is still able to take place in a public City Hall building.  We truly appreciate our city values.

The Council Workshop meeting moved from the council chambers into the conference room for presentation of agenda items.  Notably absent was the mayor… Who’s strong personality I am already starting to miss.

Gayle Bunker served as Mayor Pro-tem and a quorum consisted of Jon Pike, Ben Nickle, Gil Almquist, Jimmy Hughes.  Also present were council elects Randall and Bowcott.

I could not help but notice the soft tone of voice employed by City Manager, Esplin as the meeting moved forward. First on the agenda was a frank discussion on the improvement needs of the St. George Recreation Center.

It was reported that the city purchased the building located on 400 East in the year 1993 at a cost of $l.00.  This being the old National Guard Armory building that was improved upon for city recreational needs. The bottom line was that during recent refitting, foundation issues became apparent that forced work to stop.

To make things right an additional $167,000 will be needed; extending the cost to $211,000.  This money is to come from the city’s Capital Project Fund. City Manager Esplin brought attention to the fact that the city makes an effort NOT to compete with Private Business in the field of recreation and city expenditures over the years have been quite modest.

The council determined that although this year’s current budget does not included money for this newly discovered  recreational need, improvements should move forward.  The city has certainly gotten its monies worth from its original investment of $1.00.

Agenda item 2 was tabled and discussion on Cremation Gardens at Tonaquint Cemetery will be rescheduled.

Senior Sampler Readers will be updated on remaining agenda items in future issues.  Please feel free to communicate your concerns to edbacausa@gmail.com

Thank you, 

Ed

City in Motion

December 5th City Council Meeting had a joyous atmosphere to it. Perhaps the CHRISTMAS SPIRIT was bringing out thoughts in people’s minds as to what is REALLY important in the lives of each individual. GOOD.

As I searched the room I noted the presence of St. George Police Department in the attendance of Deputy Chief, Rich Farnsworth. DO YOU know that each council meeting includes a police presence? Usually, Chief Marlon Stratton or Deputy Chief Farnsworth sit in the back of the room, out of camera range. TODAY was especially meaningful for Deputy Chief Farnsworth because it marked his 20 year anniversary with SGPD. Congratulations for your service to the citizens of St. George! We are grateful for your service; not to mention countless hours spent at city council meetings after completing a full days work.

It was duly noted that council elects Randall and Bowcutt were in attendance and preparing for taking office. BY THE WAY folks, this is UNUSUAL to see those who are yet to take office showing up regularly. The first time I saw Gayle at a meeting was when she showed up to get sworn into office. This can be taken as a positive sign of willingness to serve.

In the background one can see the presence of an individual coveting the soon to be vacant position when Councilman Pike becomes mayor. The wheels are in motion by those seeking the position and/or Special Interest Groups seeking to exercise their influence. It will be interesting to see how this plays out.

HIGHLIGHTS of today's Public Hearing had to do with a zone change request put forth by IHC Health Services and the LDS Church on a vacant lot located at the corner of 200 East and 600 South; just down the street from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints -LDS- Temple.

This property is currently designated Residential Central City and is to be changed to Administrative & Professional use to permit the building of a New State of the Art Facility. A NEW FAMILY HISTORY CENTER considered to be A First of Its Kind. WOW!

It should be noted that Councilman Pike expressed a conflict of interest in that he is employed by IHC and left the Council Chambers. The vote was cast and the matter was unanimously approved, and rightfully so.

DO YOU KNOW that while some may say this is a self- interest promotion on the part of the LDS Church, that a GREATER number of NON-LDS MEMBERS use the LDS FAMILY HISTORY CENTERS for their genealogy at No Public Cost?

Concerned citizens expressed their public safety interest for pedestrian and wheelchair bound elderly, as well as for building design and ascetics. The public was reassured that all of their concerns would be addressed and expectations are that all will be pleased with this great addition to the City of St. George.

The second Public Hearing had to do with a zone change request from Administrative and Professional to Commercial C-4 was a Historic Landmark Site Residential Building located at 214 East Tabernacle Street. Martin Lustig was the applicant and was given recognition for his efforts by
the council who approved his request.

FOLKS, we need to keep our eye on zone change requests; particularly those in the Downtown portion of the city, especially as the city moves to recognize the need for MIXED USE buildings. This is sure to be on the Council’s Agenda this coming year and should be recognized and acted upon.

We look forward to seeing the details on the proposed Wilkinson’s Commercial Development hopefully this coming year.

Please forward your concerns on City issues to edbacausa@gmail.com

-Ed

Declared Conflict of Interest

City Council Meeting of November 21^st. presented me with the opportunity to reflect on the past and current members of the City Council. Going back ten years, I could not help but notice the change of methodology employed which brought forth the personalities of each member and their posture in presenting themselves. The Individual Values and Concerns for the Image they portrayed of themselves, To not only to be SEEN, but to be HEARD displaying those qualities. A GENUINE attitude that they care how the PUBLIC perceives them and their actions.

This observation was made during Public Hearings on two issues that may on their face appear minor or of small importance on zoning issues.

The first issue had to do with change from R-1-10 to AP on 15.77 acres and to OS on 28.77 acres on property located on the east side of Medical Center Drive at approximately 600 South.   (East of the new Hospital)

What made this meaningful was that IHC Health Services, Inc. was the applicant and that Councilman Pike, now Mayor Elect Pike is employed by IHC.

What stood out was that Councilman Pike clearly made it known that he was Excusing Himself from voting, but then to avoid any semblance of Conflict of Interest or Undue Influence on other Council Members he left the Council Chambers to allow the issue to be heard.

The second issue had to do with change from RE-12.5 to R-1-10 on 5.01 acres located on the east side of 2160 East Street and north of 2450 South.

What made this meaningful was that Denice Hughes was the applicant and that he is brother to Councilman Hughes, who followed the example outlined by Councilman Pike.  He too declared a Conflict of Interest and left the Council Chambers.

How refreshing to see that both men not only complied with protocol but that they did it in such a way that their Character stood out in a most positive way.

This can only bode well for the citizens of Saint George but it also stands as a good example to be followed by our recently elected council members, Randall and Bowcutt.

There was a third zoning change issue which took place during this council session that had to do with a change from RE-12.5 on 10.6 acres and from A-1 on 11.9 acres to R-1-10 located southeast of the intersection of Seegmiller Drive and 3000 East Street, south of the Bridle Gate Estates. Borely Enterprise Trust, Charles Larsen, Trustee was the applicant.

What stood out on this issue was that several citizens from the adjoining properties were present and contested the zoning change.  Both sides of the issue presented their arguments with a high degree of quality of expression and with civility.

What was most meaningful to me was that approval would bring with it an increase in density with a projected increase of 8 additional lots.

NOW, as expected Councilwoman Bunker put forth the effort to mollify both sides of the issue and the other council members contributed by recognizing past zoning efforts in this part of the community.

WHAT REALLY stood out was Councilman Jimmy Hughes who had the courage to speak out. Revealing his personal values and what he recognized as being in the best interest of the Little Valley community, while voicing recognition of past and future building expected in this area of the city and while acknowledging that he owns property in this area and what he would like to see for his family and friends. A quality of life which he and his family cherish.

My friends, isn’t it nice to see and experience a true sense of transparency take place in OUR city council meetings.

You may participate in monitoring “Promises Made and Promises Kept” by city government by contacting me at edbacausa@gmail.com                         

Thank you, Ed

Kindness Expressed at City Council

November 21st:
Council Meeting began for me when my attention was drawn to Allison and Tom McArthur (husband and wife) quietly seated, awaiting the start of council proceedings. I usually expect to see them at McArthur Jeweler’s on Main Street, but today I was taken with the soft, kind expression their faces revealed as they patiently waited for their turn to address the Council. One cannot help but be moved by an obvious sign of love and affection two people may have for each other.

I was not surprised to learn that their presence had to do with seeking City approval and sponsorship for the 2nd Annual Christmas Stoll Downtown Event to be held Saturday December 7th.

Approval was being sought for closure of city streets and City Sponsorship to highlight the Holiday Experience. The city wisely approved the invitation to be a part of activities that bring together the entire city.

The City agreed to match the funds expended by the Downtown Merchants, not to exceed $2000.00, and to make available the Stage for musical entertainment that is sure to bring forth the Christmas Spirit.

Tom and Allison were properly recognized for their public service that extends beyond providing for the young and old of the community. It was a nice touch to get us all feeling the Holiday Spirit and for providing an opportunity that ALL of us may come together as a City Family.

IT’S ONE OF THE MANY REASONS WE CHOOSE TO LIVE IN SAINT GEORGE.

We may question the expenditure of city funds and surely we will not all be in agreement with where the money goes, but this Council meeting also included The Annual Audit Report for fiscal year 2013. Please note that the City of St. George received the highest possible evaluation.

OUR CITY’S financial affairs appear to be in order and well managed. This was further made evident by the approval of a resolution to adopt what amounts to a refinancing of $13.000,000 in Electric Revenue Refunding Bonds intended to provide 6% Annual Savings that may total $600,000.
KUDOS to City Staff.

Speaking of good news, the City received notice from Fish & Wild Life that the permit for building of the Mall Drive Bridge may be rendered in 2 to 4 weeks allowing for bids at the first Council Meeting in December. This makes it possible for the City to receive the benefit of roughly $3,000,000 less than the City Engineer’s Estimate Cost of Construction.

Recognition was given to the City of Washington who made this possible by cooperating with building efforts. The building of Mall Drive Bridge in 7 months is sure to improve transportation needs for Washington and St. George residents. GOOD GOING WASHINGTON CITY.

The positive spirit of Transparency and Cooperation appears to be building up as we move to a new year and a new era of City government.

You may participate in monitoring “Promises Made and Promises Kept by City Government" by contacting me at edbaca@gmail.com

Thank you, Ed

Upward and Onward - Promises Made & Promises to be Kept

The regular Council meeting on Thursday, November 14th Administrative Conference Room, St. George City Hall.

Notably absent was the Mayor, who has now missed the past two Council Meetings (reportedly
attending a Conference in Texas) and Councilwoman Bunker, who’s
husband is said not to be doing well. We wish them both the best.

A quorum was made up of Council persons present; Jon Pike, Ben Nickle, & Jimmy Hughes. It fell to Councilman Pike to serve as Mayor Pro-tem and late arrival Gil Almquist made up the quorum. Mayor Pro-tem Pike graciously invited Councilwoman Elect, Michelle Randall to join them at the table. Councilman Elect, Joe Bowcutt was not able to be present and we wish him well with his back injury.

The meeting began with the council certifying the St. George Official Election Results. The final numbers did not change the results and they were presented as follows.:

City Mayor:
Jon Pike 8409 (61.09%)
Dan McArthur 5314 (38.60%)

City Council:
Michele Randall 7973 (31.74%)
Joe Bowcutt 5893 (23.46%)
Tara Dunn 5608 (22.33%)
Ed Baca 5579 (22.21%)

The filling of Councilman Pike's position on the council is yet to be done and is expected to take place this coming January when the newly elected council will cast their votes to elect Pike’s successor.

While the Council may select from the list of applicants expected to apply for the vacated position I feel it appropriate to state that Council Candidates, DUNN and BACA should be given primary consideration based on the votes garnered this past election that reflects the will of the people. I would feel comfortable with the selection of either DUNN or BACA and will of course support whoever the City Council appoints to this position. YOU should feel free to express your opinion on this matter to the newly established Council.

Having placed the election of new city officials behind us it is time to look ahead. The path to improved public relations and involvement appears to be the order of the day. HOT off the plate was a presentation made to the Council by Kendall Clements who represented “Escape Properties”, on the issue VACATION RENTALS. This has to do with property management of 2nd homes who wish to rent their residential or townhomes to those coming to visit or vacation in St. George.

Short Term Housing…renting homes for 1, 2, 3 Days? Mr. Clements referred to City Ordinance (SGC 10-14-22. Short term rental is usually considered to be less than 29 Days. The question was raised should “Conditional Use Permits” or “City Issued Licensing” be allowed to regulate the City Rental Ordinance? What value is to be given to a “PD” or Single Family Zoning? This of course begs for a discussion on WHY the City should have Zoning Ordinances. The collecting of REVENUE came to the forefront. Are we to drive the rental of homes further underground and thus lose needed revenue? Should a home buyer REALLY have an expectation to be able to raise their family in a residential/family community or is this to be trumped by the need to make as much money as possible for the Board of Realtors/Property Owners and Property Managers as mentioned by Mr. Clements. It was duly noted that Mr. Clements touched on his personal experience dealing with City Code Enforcement Officers and lack of acceptable public relations skills or respect given him.

This brings to light the REPEATED call I made during this last election, citing the need for Boards and Commissions. Namely a Human Relations Commission and a CITY ORDINANCE and ENFORCEMENT COMMISSION.

VOTERS must remain diligent in monitoring “PROMISES MADE & PROMISES KEPT” during this last election.

You may express your concerns by contacting me directly at edbacausa@gmail.com

Thank you,
Ed

Gratitude

As we find ourselves enjoying the warm, embracing weather that only St. George can provide in November, one has to feel a spirit of gratitude for the beauty that surrounds us. 

 Each of us possesses within ourselves, the level of appreciation to be given…….and I believe we each know who is to be the recipient of our heartfelt Gratitude. 

I am grateful that on November 5^th we were able to exercise our freedom and VOTE for the candidate of our choice.  Those elected to public office have assumed a great responsibility…….  Given to them by those who entered the voting booth, in equal standing with fellow citizens, regardless of wealth or station in life……each had but one vote to give, no more and no less than their neighbor.

 We should all be grateful that we live in a country that allows us to exercise this very special freedom. The first step is taken when we vote. The next step is to sustain those we voted for by contributing with an oversight that will enable them to measure the actions they take on the public’s behalf.

As Thanksgiving Day approaches I pray that we as citizens of St. George will come together to help improve and strengthen the fabric that makes this community the most desirable place to live, work and raise our families.

Thank you one and all, present and past citizens of St. George for the contributions and sacrifices made and for those yet to be made. The future of St. George is bright not because of who was elected…… but because of the PEOPLE who make up this community we call St. George. 

Thank you.     ED BACA

Your Vote Matters!

 

ED BACA

FOR

Transparency & Accountability

When elected I will adhere to establishing

Priority of Action…..Accountability for Action…..

Transparency and Oversight provided by Citizen Participation.

 

I will establish an

AIRPORT COMMISSION

CODE ENFORCEMENT COMMISSION

WATER AND POWER COMMISSION

HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION

 

I WILL LISTEN, I WILL HEAR, I WILL ACT IN A RESPONSIBLE WAY, I WILL RESPECT YOU!

VOTE ED BACA NOVEMBER 5, 2013