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Councilmember Kim Roden commented on the possible expenditure of laptop computers for each of them. "When people have a computer in front of them, I think it sends a message that people are more interested in the screen than the people in front of them," she said. "I don't want the city to pay for my laptop nor my internet service. I don't feel strongly about moving in that direction." "I agree with you," said Councilmember Jim Crowley. "I don't want a screen in front of us. An iPad would be better than a laptop." "I'm a firm believer in the iPad," said Councilmember Tom O'Connor. "I can imagine the paper and the running around and the collating on Thursday mornings." "It does seem archaic to run around with packets today and have packets delivered to our door," said Mayor Mary Thun. "Keep in mind the confidential data that might be available on the iPad," stated Councilmember Roden, "and the consequences if it's dropped or lost or stolen." Administrator Uram will look into making technology improvements and move this issue forward with no date specific in mind at this time.
CITY OF VICTORIA MENTIONS ‘CLOUT’ TO GET A RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY IN ORDER Ralph Olinger, resident on Victoria Circle, spoke to councilmembers on May 9th during the Open Forum part of the council meeting. "I have concerns about a permit the city granted on August 28th of 2008 to Michael Coumbe at Victoria Circle." Michael Coumbe is a next door neighbor of the Olingers. "Council approved an extension of their garage with no mention of a second story, which none of us knew about, including the Planning Commission," said Mr. Olinger. "It has been an eyesore ever since August of 2008." Ralph had pictures to show to councilmembers and he also invited councilmembers to come and view the construction in person. "It is an eyesore on all sides," he said. "We gave up about one-third of our view of the lake so he could have his garage. I can't understand why he can't pick things up around there and at least finish the outside." Ralph said his neighbor also talked about getting rid of an old shed on the property and burying electrical lines, but neither has been done. "We had a set of clotheslines which he said was an eyesore and so we removed it," he added. "I feel bad that I have to come up here and take your time." Asked Mayor Mary Thun, "Has the city been aware of this?" Replied Administrator Don Uram, "On occasion I drive through the neighborhood. This has been turned over to our Building Official for enforcement action. It takes time to work through the process. I think this happened at the first meeting I ever attended in Victoria. It's time to get it over with." Regarding the two-story construction, Holly Kreft, Community Development Director, explained that the Planning Commission approved a variance for Michael Coumbe for a front yard setback, and that the building height was allowed. "We've learned that new language was necessary in the ordinance," she said. It was mentioned that someone might be living in the two-story garage. Councilmember Kim Roden pointed out, "The city attorney has made it clear that there cannot be residency in that garage." Concluded Mayor Thun, "At minimum, we need an updated report at the next meeting. This is a long process that people have had to live with. We need some clout here." At the May 23rd council meeting, it was reported that the City of Victoria sent a certified letter to the property owner of the "eyesore" and that the certified letter was picked up at the Post Office. Mr. Coumbe has ten days to come into compliance. Said Councilmember Kim Roden about the Olingers, "Their patience has run out. My patience has run out.
PLANNING FOR THE SUMMER OF 2012 WHEN HWY 5 IS CLOSED THROUGH VICTORIA Council approved the 2012 Trunk Highway 5 Marketing Plan as well as the contribution of $20,000 toward implementing that plan. Purpose of the plan is to get and keep Victoria businesses open and filled with customers during the Hwy 5 construction closure during the summer months of 2012. "The city staff has been extremely helpful in putting this together," said Dave Baston, Chair of the Business Development Committee. "Holly has a very good concept on all of these numbers." Community Development Director Holly Kreft told about the marketing plan in detail. It includes a detour sign with identifying logo that will be strategically placed at various locations in the community. It includes eleven 4-foot by 8-foot signs also strategically placed to advertise Victoria and its businesses.
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Sue’s Album A symphony of photos and fewer than a thousand words at www.VictoriaGazette.com |
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June 2011 |
