Loading...
09-15-1980 Special fI .... U PU;J./''''c/ u CITY OF EDGEWATER ZONING BOARD SPECIAL MEETING September 15,1980 CALL TO ORDER The special meeting of the Zoning Board was called to order by Chairman Mackie at approximately 6:35 P.M. in the City Planner's Office in City Hall. ROLL CALL Mr. Mackie Mr. Siciliano Mr. Wallace Mr. Phinney Mr. Wheeler Mr. Troian Mr. Dyett Present Present Present Present Present Present Present The purpose of this meeting is to discuss accusations that have been made about the Zoning Board by other boards. Mr. Mackie explained that he is going to play tapes of a Council me~ting where these comments were made and he would like no board member to speak until the tape is taken out of the machine and a tape is replaced for this meeting. At this time the tape was played, as instructed. Mrs. Webber spoke to the City Council about a proposed change sent from the Zoning Board. The tape for this meeting was replaced in recorder. Mr. Mackie explained again that the Zoning Board was trying to protect the City by having this put in Special Exceptions rather than in the Permitted Uses as it is now. He added that perhaps people are getting this confused. Mr. Phinney stated that it was printed in the newspaper that Mrs. Webber is linking the Zoning Board with special interest groups within the City. He doesn't feel that boar~ should be subject to such accusations. Mr. Troian stated that Mrs. Webber is entitled to her opinion and her statements, however he doesn't understand what she wants. Mr. Mackie explained that he has tried to talk with her about all of this, and she can't understand. Again he spoke of the Special Exceptions and Permitted Uses. Mr. Phinney stated that we all recognize a person's right to speak out. However, as a member of the Planning Board, she is looked upon as having a certain expertise on these matters. This causes the public to look upon this board as if we are doing something illegal. He added that he feels that board members should be held to a higher code of conduct. To make statements is fine, but to make the accusations is unnecessary. She should present proof or apologize publically to the board. ~ o u Mr. Wheeler commented that this change has been in the hands of the Council for about five months. Mr. Opal asked at this time whether the meeting last week was advertised. He commented that this meeting was called at a meeting last week where only four members attended and this subject was brought up. Mr. Siciliano explained that at the Zoning Board's special meeting last week this subject did come up under board comments. It was decided that since only four members were present, we should hold another meeting to see if we could have all of our members present before any decision was made on a subject such as this. Mr. Phinney read a proposed letter that board to have sent to the City Council. feels this should be done publically in public trust. he would like for the He stated that he order to maintain Mr. Walter Gross asked, if Mrs. Webber made these accusations at a Council meeting, what did the Council do? Did they ask her to present proof or what are they going to do? Mr. Mackie stated that he doesn't know what the Council intends to do. Mr. Troian stated again that any comments can be made by anyone, however if there is proof, it should be brought out. Mr. Opal stated that there is a more important meeting that we should be attending. This should have been scheduled for another time, if you were going to play tapes, which has not ever been done before. Why wasn't this brought up Wednesday night when Mr. Williams asked if any of the Zoning Board members had any- thing to say? At this time there was interruption in the conversations. ~ Mr. Mackie explained that it was decided last week to listen to these tapes and there is nothing wrong with it. Mr. Phinney stated that if anyone has any questions about the legality of this meeting tonight, please come in and listen to the tapes. He explained that the Planning Board had asked for a joint meeting last Wednesday, therefore the Zoning Board planned a special meeting for earlier that evening. The Zoning Board did not have a quorum so the Planning Board went ahead with their meeting, then the Zoning Board ended up with a quorum present, therefore they started their meeting after the joint meeting. It was decided that due to the fact there were only four members present we should call another meeting, and since all of the Zoning Board members usually attend the Council meetings, it was agreed to hold a short meeting prior to the Council meeting tonight. Mr. Mackie explained that the special meeting of the Zoning Board last week was called to make a decision in regards to the detached garages. This subject was brought up under Board Comments and then it was decided to call another special meeting. Both of these meetings were advertised by City Hall. Mr. Troian asked if we are certain that we are submitting the material properly? -2- . o \ Q Mr. Mackie stated that the attorney explained that this is being done properly. Mr. Troian made a motion that we send a letter to the Council asking that they strongly urge Planning Board member Mrs. Webber to prove her accusations, being seconded by Mr. Wheeler. At this time there was discussion about an apology. It was agreed upon that this is not really necessary, if she has proof that is what the board is interested, if she does not have proof, then it is up to her as to whether she wants to apologize. Mr. Phinney stated that he feels that if she doesn't apologize then it is an obstruction of justice. He personally feels that the Council should require her to do so, however he will go along with the majority of the board. Mr. Wallace made a statement that he feels that anyone working in the government capacity is subject to criticism and such comments. You can't please everybody. The lady has a right to her opinion. He thinks that everyone working on the boards has Edgewater's best interest in mind, we want the City to grow and we want to help it to grow in a proper manner. Mr. Mackie agreed, and added that this is what the Zoning Board was thinking when they recommended the change. Upon roll call vote, the motion CARRIED 7-0. Mr. Mackie explained to the board members that he discussed the copies with the City Clerk. He was informed that they are trying to cut down on the xerox expenses and a copy of all correspondence will be made for the board chairmen and he will pass his copy around for all of the board members. Mr. Siciliano made a motion to adjourn being seconded by Mr. Troian. Motion CARRIED. Minutes submitted by: Debbie Sigler -3- o o ./'T'~ . . CITY OF EDGEWATER ZONING BOARD SPECIAL MEETING September 15, 1980 CALL TO ORDER ROLL CALL ORDER OF BUSINESS Board comments on another board making accusations regarding Zoning Board decisions ADJOURN