Minutes of December 5, 2006 Regular Meeting
Expo Center Conference Room
5:30 P.M.

Present: Commissioners Sherry Bohn, Don Hosford, Hoby Streich, and Kathy Watson; Attorney Karen Ostrye; from staff, Michael McElwee, Mike Doke, Linda Hull, Linda Shames, and Laurie Borton

Absent: Commissioner Fred Duckwall; Attorney Jerry Jaques; and Linda Hull, staff

Media: Sue Ryan, Hood River News

1. CALL TO ORDER: President Sherry Bohn called the regular session meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
a) Modifications, Additions to Agenda by Staff: None.
b) Information, Communications, Announcements: None.

2. PUBLIC COMMENT: Ray Felton, Chamber of Commerce board member, spoke to the Commission on the Expo Center adaptive re-use. Felton stated the Expo is important not only to the Chamber but the community as well. Felton said he understood the issues surrounding the monetary losses but thought that with different management the deficit might be turned into a positive. Prior comments on record regarding the number of people and tourism dollars brought into the community for Harvest Fest were reiterated by Felton, who further stated that if the building were to go away, opportunities and current events might also go away. Felton asked the Commission to give the adaptive re-use a lot of thought before a decision was made.

3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

Motion: Move to approve the meeting minutes of the November 21, 2006 regular and work sessions.
Move: Streich
Second: Hosford
Vote: Aye: Bohn, Hosford, Streich, and Watson
Absent: Duckwall
MOTION CARRIED

4. COMMISSIONER, COMMITTEE REPORTS:
a) Waterfront Recreation Committee: President Bohn commented on the November 27 Waterfront Recreation Committee meeting noting the following highlights - consideration of a weekly pass, supportive of a "wait and watch" to see what happens with windsurfing and kite launch sites currently affected by the November flood, and not being able to reach consensus on the discussion to ban dogs from the Event Site.

5. DIRECTOR'S REPORT: Executive Director Michael McElwee commented on the quarterly Oregon Ports Group meeting that he had attended that day and reported the Oregon Economic and Community Development Department (OECDD) statutes regarding the distribution of monies to the Ports would be revised with one result being a requirement for Ports to submit Strategic Plans to OECDD. McElwee believed it would be important to talk with Senator Metzger and Representative Smith so they had an understanding of the Port of Hood River and the function of Ports statewide. McElwee recognized Port maintenance staff for the work done and the long hours during last week's snow and ice storms. The City's extended trial period of Embarq's Wi-Fi services will conclude at the end of the month and McElwee noted if the program continues the City may be looking for assistance in paying for the equipment. McElwee stated more information would be available at the December 19 meeting.
McElwee also reported on last week's meeting with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) commenting that the Port's damage assessments from the November floods don't fit FEMA's life safety criteria so McElwee was cautious about receiving any, or much, money. Next week staff will discuss the impact of the flood damage with Hal Hiemstra, Ball Janik lobbyist, when Hiemstra is in Hood River; and a meeting has also been scheduled with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Mike Doke, Marketing Manager, reported that the short-term lease of a portion of the Western Power Building by Maritime Services began Monday, December 4 and that production of floating docks would be in full swing in January. Although it's not yet resolved, Doke commented the City had been great to work with on the issue of Maritime's request for the use of a crane on the northeast side of the building to place the docks into the Columbia River. This option would require a conditional use permit, which the Port, as the landowner, would apply for on behalf of the tenant. An allowable use already exists on the northwest side of the building close to the Hook entrance; however, President Bohn pointed out the alternative is a primitive launch site commonly known as "Second Street Launch."

6. PRESENTATIONS: Tom Puttman of David Evans and Associates, Inc. (DEA) was introduced by Executive Director McElwee, who prefaced Puttman's presentation by stating the draft Sustainable Infrastructures Strategies was an outcome from Commission discussions at the October 3 work session. The following concepts discussed by Puttman were based on an ability to meet the criteria of potential enhancement access to infrastructure funding and incentive sources; providing guidance for infrastructure improvements associated with future waterfront development activities; creation of branding and market development opportunities; fostering Port and local economic development activities; reinforcing connections between the Port, City and County; and strengthening the Port's sustainability efforts:
· waterfront ground-source heat pump systems
· sewer plant effluent re-use systems
· sustainable stormwater management systems
· rainwater harvesting and water recycling
· solar energy generation
· support community scale energy initiatives
· industrial ecology
· LEED (leadership in energy and environmental design) certification for buildings
Following Puttman's presentation, Commissioner Watson commented that sustainable concepts could be expanded to areas other than the waterfront, such as the walking path; and permeable road surfaces, and irrigation needs, at the Hook and the Spit. Watson also asked for clarification on the next steps. McElwee said that in a broad sense, DEA's work would integrate into work being done by Group Mackenzie, and that a determination would need to be made on what makes good economic sense. McElwee also stated a sustainable infrastructure would brand the waterfront and attract businesses, and he requested that the Commission review the draft concepts and provide input to staff.

7. ACTION ITEMS:
a) Approve three-year Ken Jernstedt Airfield Fixed Based Operator Agreement with Flightline Design, Ltd., through December 31, 2008 and retroactive to January 1, 2006: Doke introduced FBO operators Anne Yannotti and Denny Kindig. McElwee commented that he had enjoyed meeting with Yannotti and Kindig and having the opportunity to know more about the airport operations. McElwee commented that staff was recommending approval of the 3-year FBO agreement. Commissioner Streich had some questions for Yannotti about the agreement. Streich then thanked Doke, staff, and Yannotti for finalizing the agreement.
Motion: Move to approve the three-year Ken Jernstedt Airfield Fixed Base Operator Agreement with Flightline Design, Ltd., through December 31, 2008 and retroactive to January 1, 2006.
Move: Streich
Second: Hosford
Vote: Aye: Bohn, Hosford, Streich, and Watson
Absent: Duckwall
MOTION CARRIED

b) Adopt Resolution No. 2006-07-3 Directing Staff to Pursue Adaptive Re-use of the Hood River Exposition Center for Business Development and Continue Current Operations through December 2007: President Bohn stated once again that the staff recommendations presented at the November 21 meeting was a good report. Executive Director McElwee commented the discussion at the last meeting was valuable, and added that since the November 21 meeting two additional comments had been received--one from a Harvest Fest vendor requesting the use of the building not change; and one advocating for the adaptive re-use. McElwee recognized the value and importance of the Chamber and Visitors Center and he also recognized that, should the Resolution be adopted, change would be disruptive and attempts would be made to help with the Chamber's transition at the same time attempts would be made to identify a new occupant. President Bohn commented the Commission's decision, after years of discussion, would not be taken lightly. Bohn further stated that an adaptive re-use of the Expo Center was not about money--it was about jobs and the future of the waterfront. Before a motion and vote of the Commission on the Resolution, Bohn read the eight bullet points that staff would be directed to carry out. Commissioner Watson then commented that while she served on the Budget Committee, she was in a "different camp" on the subject and would have recommended that the Commission modify the building for events. Watson said it now made sense to her to adapt the building to another use, which would act at a catalyst to jumpstart development on the waterfront. Watson also commented that it was her experience in other locations that the use of tents worked well for events.

Motion: Move to adopt Resolution No. 2006-07-3 directing staff to pursue adaptive re-use of the Hood River Exposition Center for business development and continue current operations through December 2007.
Move: Watson
Second: Hosford
Vote: Aye: Bohn, Hosford, Streich, and Watson
Absent: Duckwall
MOTION CARRIED

c) Approve Appointment to the Waterfront Recreation Committee: There was Commission consensus that staff would interview the two applications for the single vacancy on the Waterfront Recreation Committee and make a recommendation on the appointment of Laney Gale or Doug Archbald at the December 19 meeting.

d) Accounts Payable: None

8. COMMISSION CALL: None.

9. ADJOURN: President Bohn adjourned the meeting at 6:35 p.m.

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Port of Hood River Commission
Meeting Minutes of December 19, 2006 Regular Session
Expo Center Conference Room
5:30 P.M.

Present: Commissioners Sherry Bohn, Fred Duckwall, Don Hosford, and Hoby Streich; Attorney Jerry Jaques; from staff, Michael McElwee, Mike Doke, Linda Hull, Linda Shames, and Laurie Borton

Absent: Commissioner Kathy Watson

Media: Sue Ryan, Hood River News

1. CALL TO ORDER: President Sherry Bohn called the regular session to order at 5:30 p.m.
a) Modifications, Additions to Agenda by Staff: None.
b) Information, Communications, Announcements: None.

2. PUBLIC COMMENT: None.

3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

Motion: Move to approve the meeting minutes of the December 5, 2006 regular session.
Move: Hosford
Second: Duckwall
Vote: Aye: Bohn, Duckwall, Hosford, and Streich
Absent: Watson
MOTION CARRIED

4. COMMISSIONER, COMMITTEE REPORTS:
a) Industrial Lands Committee: Commissioner Duckwall reported the committee met that afternoon and another meeting would be scheduled, the date as yet undetermined. Mike Doke, Marketing Manager, commented that he had a copy of the committee's draft recommendations but the report had not yet been shared with Executive Director Michael McElwee.

5. DIRECTOR'S REPORT: With the New Year's holiday immediately preceding the January 2 meeting date, McElwee inquired if the Commission would like to reschedule or cancel the first Tuesday meeting of the month? There was Commission consensus to cancel the January 2 meeting and to begin the January 16 meeting at 6:00 p.m. to accommodate Commissioner Streich's travel plans. The Commissioners were invited to attend a retirement celebration on Friday for toll collector Loyd Crown who is retiring after 19 years. McElwee acknowledged the fine work of Linda Hull and stated he was pleased to announce that Hull had been promoted to the newly created position of Operations Manager. In addition to her current duties, Hull will be the point person for Port's waterfront recreation responsibilities. The Commission applauded the appointment and congratulated Hull. The Port, City, and County "coalition" met with Hal Hiemstra and Dan James of Ball Janik to discuss 2008 funding priorities that will focus on evaluating the dynamic changes of the Hood River waterway, an integrated water system involving the Windmaster area, the Hood River wastewater treatment plant, and sustainable strategies for the waterfront. McElwee reported the Port had received notification from the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) that the grant application for Transportation Enhancement funds for the Riverfront Pedestrian Trail passed a technical review but the application did not go on to the next round. The Port will apply for funding again in 2008. McElwee commented that unless there was Commission objection, staff would work directly with Mr. Terry Brandt on naming the road north of the Ken Jernstedt Airfield that would access Brandt's proposed antique airplane and automobile museum. McElwee requested Commission input regarding the draft letter that will be mailed to Gorge area businesses to solicit interest in occupying the Hood River Expo Center building.

6. PRESENTATIONS: Finance Manager Linda Shames and McElwee shared a final illustration of the Marina Center remodel. The project will advertise by the end of the week; respondents will be required to attend a January 10 pre-bid meeting and bids will be due January 19. Shames commented that until a future tenant is identified for the space adjacent to the conference room, improvements would be limited. The Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center, who have been approached about the available 1400+ square feet space, will notify the Port of their interest in January.

7. ACTION ITEMS:
a) Authorize Modification of the Governance Policy to Appoint Ms. Laney Gale and Doug Archbald to the Waterfront Recreation Committee: McElwee pointed out the current policy calls for six public members to serve on the Waterfront Recreation Committee and two applicants have applied for one position. It is staff's recommendation that both applicants be appointed.
Motion: Move to authorize modification of the Governance Policy to increase the number of public members and appoint Ms. Laney Gale and Doug Archbald to the Waterfront Recreation Committee for terms ending June 30, 2009.
Move: Duckwall
Second: Streich
Vote: Aye: Bohn, Duckwall, Hosford, and Streich
Absent: Watson
MOTION CARRIED

b) Authorize Amendment No. 3 to the Existing License Agreement, Subject to Legal Counsel Approval, with United Telephone Company to Extend the Term of the Agreement for an Additional Two Months for Use of Port Property for Wi-Fi Equipment: McElwee commented the extension of the License Agreement, which is due to expire on January 15, 2007, will provide additional time for the trial testing of the network while Embarq (United Telephone Company) works out details with the City of Hood River for Wi-Fi services. McElwee stated that he believed this would be the final extension and that the City Council would take action on Amendment No. 3 in January.

Motion: Move to authorize Amendment No. 3 to the existing License Agreement, subject to legal counsel review, with United Telephone Company to extend the term of the agreement for an additional two months for use of Port property for Wi-Fi equipment.
Move: Hosford
Second: Streich
Vote: Aye: Bohn, Duckwall, Hosford, and Streich
Absent: Watson
MOTION CARRIED

c) Authorize a Personal Services Agreement with Terra Surveying, Inc. to Provide Aerial Mapping, Surveying and Digital Photography Services for the Waterfront in an Amount Not to Exceed $17,000: Twenty year old aerial photos are creating a challenge in the Waterfront development and planning process. Staff is recommending approval of the Personal Services Agreement that would cover the entire waterfront area, from the Hook to the bridge and provide necessary heighth, width, depth and contouring information. Commissioner Streich questioned the urgency because of the likelihood that the configuration of the "delta" created by the November flooding may experience further changes. McElwee responded the data was needed now and that the delta was not the focus of the request.

Motion: Move to authorize a Personal Services Agreement with Terra Surveying, Inc. to provide aerial mapping, surveying, and digital photography services for the Waterfront in an amount not to exceed $17,000.
Move: Duckwall
Second: Hosford
Vote: Aye: Bohn, Duckwall, Hosford, and Streich
Absent: Watson
MOTION CARRIED

d) Accounts Payable: None

8. COMMISSION CALL: Commissioner Streich asked if updated information from the City on the wastewater treatment plant was available and McElwee responded that an update had not been provided. Streich also inquired about interest in the Wasco Business Park Building and Doke responded that the lease cost was a factor for most of the people with whom he had spoken. President Bohn inquired if there had been any discussion among the coalition members of a privy-receiving facility being placed elsewhere and McElwee responded that discussion had not taken place. Commissioner Duckwall inquired about a change of the Industrial zone definition, to which McElwee responded that he and Group Mackenzie had met with Bob Francis and Cindy Walbridge but that any definition change would be a couple of months away. Commissioner Hosford informed staff that he appreciated the memo formatting of the Action Item discussion points.

9. EXECUTIVE SESSION: President Bohn called the Commission into Executive Session under ORS 192.660(2)(e) Real Property and ORS 192.660(2)(f) Exempt Public Records at 5:56 p.m. Upon conclusion of Executive Session, the Commission was called back into regular session at 6:40 p.m. No action was taken as a result of Executive Session.

10. ADJOURN: President Bohn adjourned the meeting at 6:40 p.m.