CCMIN12172019 - Laserfiche WebLink

difficult to sustain if they gradually fall behind. There were alternatives to obtain funding but this option was the most efficient and expeditious. In response to Councilmember Testa's inquiry, City Landscape Architect Matt Gruber advised the project has been focused on the replacement of the plant material, however, two-thirds of the area has been replaced with drip irrigation using recycled water. In response to Councilmember Pentin's inquiry, City Landscape Architect Gruber advised that turf is not included in the project. Mayor Thorne opened public comment. James Paxson, Hacienda Business Park General Manager, advised the maintenance of the landscaping is in the the original agreement. He believes the irrigation is in great shape due to the the Automated Metering Infrastructure project. He advised there is a separate turf replacement project phase in the future. In response to Councilmember Testa's inquiry, Mr. Paxson advised that if the loan is approved, he the project can be completed by the end of the 1st quarter of 2020; that the contractor must stay within budget and any overages will be absorbed by the contractor. He said he comes to the City in good faith to get the work completed. In response to Councilmember Brown's inquiry, Mr. Paxson said Hacienda Business Park cannot get a traditional business loan as they do not have the traditional collateral needed. He said they will be increasing the budget to mitigate unforseen expenses like this. Councilmember Brown suggested they begin to hold fund in reserves. Mr. Paxson responded that their entity must pay taxes on their reserves so it is not feasible. Councilmember Testa expressed her concern with a ten-year loan. Mr. Paxson advised the City did offer the option of a five-year and a ten-year loan and they chose to move forward with a ten- year loan. Mayor Thorne closed public comment. Councilmember Testa expressed her concern with a 10-year loan, and her interest in ensuring enforcement, adding a penalty clause to the agreement and having Hacienda Business Park sign a maintenance agreement in which violations of the agreement be met with fines. Councilmember Narum expressed her support and said it is a creative solution to solving the problem. Councilmember Pentin expressed his support and felt it is a benefit to the City. Councilmember Brown expressed her concern in making loans to private businesses and felt the term "public benefit" is being used loosely in this project. She said she cannot support the loan and does not feel it meets the definiation of a public benefit. Councilmember Testa said she could not support the recommedation as there is no enforcement. City Council Minutes Page 8 of 9 December 17, 2019