Loading...
44-219-Minutes for Meeting October 06,1982 Recorded 10/26/19821 DESCHUTES COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OCT 2 6 1982 OCTOBER 6, 1982 - COURTDAY MEETING ROSEMARY DESCHUTES C PAT7ERSON Chairman Shepard called the meeting to order at 10:00 A.M. G%%ft einer Paulson and Commissioner Young were also present. Amendments to The agenda was amended to include signature of Order the Agenda #82-340, in the matter of transfering fundis. Public Hearing Chairman Shepard read aloud the proposed ordinance and to Consider opened the public hearing. repeal of Soc- ial Gaming Neil Canen came forward and presented to the Board some Ordinance signatures of persons opposed to the repeal of the social gaming ordinance. He then asked that this be postponed until they are able to obtain legal counsel to represent them before the Board. Commissioner Young stated that because of the persons who had come to testify, they should proceed with the hearing at this time. Bertie Parrone, representing Vie's Tavern in LaPine, asked what circumstances had srought about the action to repeal the ordinance. Chairman Shepard stated that this has been done as a result of concerns expressed to the Board. She then stated that they have a game in their tavern, and stated that perhaps they make more rules and regulations. She said that their business is benefited by the game and to lose the game could threaten their business to some degree. Jack Boone, 11 Conifer Lane, Sunriver, came forward. He stated that he was a commander of a 800-member DAV chapter that conducted bingo games. During that time they had problems with alcohol and and in their opinion expenditures were made by persons who could not afford it. He stated that it was profitable, but he was con- cern by the element that they do attract. He said that this provides problems for the law, which the taxpayer pays for. Jim Scott, 25 N. 6th, Redmond, came forward. He is the owner of the 86 Corral in Redmond. He stated that he has gone to some expense to decorate the area where the game tables are, and it is separated from the lounge area. They have not received any complaints to his know- ledge in relation to the gaming tables and there have been no irregularities in the game. He stated that in two years they have never asked for help from any law enforcement agency. He stated that there have been nights during the week when the majority of their business was from the games, and that the game operators themselves buy a lot of drinks for their customers. He felt that if this were to be placed on the ballot for election, they would have difficulty obtaining support because there are few people interested in the games. He suggested that there be more control of the games, possibly making someone responsible for policing the games and handling complaints. He also suggested that some kind of commission be formed that could handle all of the complaints, and PAGE 1 OF 9 Deschutes County Board of Commissioners t-October 6, 1982 - Courtday Meeting 44 lp* if the commission found in favor of the complaintant, their gaming license could be revoked. Jim Aiken, Jack's Saloon in Terrebonne, came forward. He stated that they are a new business and the card games have helped them to stay in business. He stated that they cannot legislate morality and that it was important to consider the small business people in making the decision. Richard Higgin, Administrator of the Light and Life Church, said that he has been asked to speak in opposition to the social gaming ordinance on behalf of his church. He stated that it is possible to legislate immorality. Diane Techler, employee of Deschutes Station Tavern, stated that they have had a table for 12 years and have. had no problems. She stated that it is the choice of the people to participate and should remain that way. Warren West, 160 NW Irving, Bend, was present. He is an attorney representing several business and restaurant owners in Deschutes County. He stated that he doesn't understand how much opposition to this there is. He stated that he worked in the D.A.'s office at the time the social gaming ordinance was adopted, and during the next two years they never had a complaint that he knew of. He then asked for clarification on what type of complaints had been received and who had registered those complaints. Chairman Shepard stated that there had been a variety of complaints, and did not feel that it was necessary to give names. Mr. West said that recently there had been a statement issued by the Sheriff's office stating that they had received no complaints in regard to the social gaming. He suggested that this be referred to County Counsel and they work together to develop a tighter ordinance sanctions and enforceability, with betting limits and self-policing. He stated that to repeal the current ordinance could put people out of business. Mike Dugan, Assistant D.A., came forward. In response to Mr. West's statement, Mr. Dugan said that he has been in the D.A.'s office since 1978 and during that time he has recived a number of complaints about dealers who have a variety of tricks and that some charge players to participate. They have also had related assault cases. He also stated that he does not feel that Deschutes County has personnel qualified to police these activies. Jim France, Deschutes County Sheriff, came forward. He testified that they have received some complaints since he's been in office, mostly from people who claim to have been cheated. He stated that the Sheriff's office has some expertise and they could obtain additional training from the Nevada Gaming Commission. He suggested that they either abolish it completely or rewrite the ordinance. PAGE 2 OF 9 Deschutes County Board of Commissioners -'October 6, 1982 - Courtday Meeting V"ul 4 P,F.•~ Joe Reckon, Dillon's Restaurant, suggested that there are solutions to the problems without completely abolishing the ordinance. He stated that he has recently added gaming tables, and it is in his own best interest to make sure the game is run fairly and make sure there are no complaints. Gary Olson, Deschutes Station Tavern, stated that they have had a table for 12 years now and have been very careful. He said that it has been an asset to their business. He was afraid that if they lose this it could affect their business. Tom Tadevick, China Ranch Restaurant, stated that if any of the compalints relating to his establishment he would like to know it so that he could have a chance to respond. He said that he did not feel that it was fair to be judged as a group, but these matters should be dealt with on a individual basis. He stated that a stronger ordinance was needed. Mr. Canen stated that he deals blackjack, and in his opinion most of the complaints come from people who can't afford to be in the game, but he can't control that. Jim Scott stated that the tables don't make that much money. He related°an experience he had when he hired a blackjack dealer about a year and a half ago, who finally quit because he was only making about $5.00 per hour. Kathy Raken, Dillon's Restaurant, asked who will be affected by the repeal of the ordinance. Chairman Shepard responded that only establishments located outside the incorporated city limits would be affected. George McReynolds, Sundown South Saloon, stated that he and his partner have just begun their business and are in a battle for their financial survival and this could hurt them. He did not feel that this should be done on an emergency basis as the ordinance calls for. Jim Aiken, Jack's Saloon, stated that this is not fair as it will not be done unilaterally, it will only affect those establishments located in the County, and people will still be able to play in towns. He felt that this was discriminatory-- it will hurt them and benefit others. Gordy Bozeman, Sundown South Saloon, stated that they have invested considerably in their tavern and feel that their investment could be threated by this proposed action. He suggested that the Board take a close look at the complaints they have received as opposed to the favorable comments they have heard today. Gene Goff, Sheriff's Office Detective, stated that they have had quite a few complaints on the gambling which date back to 1975. He stated that they have had good PAGE 3 OF 9 Deschutes County Board of Commissioners October 6, 1982 - Courtday Meeting cooperation from the owners of He said that he takes the same saying that they need to have powers added to the ordinance. F'~s the establishments. position as Jim France, additional enforcement Commissioner Paulson asked how much it would cost to enforce the ordinance. Sheriff France responded that this would be about $12,000, because they would like to send Mr. Goff to receive training from the Nevada Gaming Commission. He suggested that these funds could come from licensing fees. Duane Smith, a blackjack dealer from Redmond, stated that this game has kept him from going on unemployment and he stated that he runs as honest and fair a game as possible. Hearing no further comments, Chairman Shepard closed the hearing. Commissioner Paulson asked Jim Scott to explain what the operation in his establishment is like. Mr. Scott said that they have an area in the back where the games take place. He said they do cash in the chips at the bar and the chips can be used to purchase drinks at the bar. They open the tables at 6:00 P.M. and close at closing time. They only play 21. There are two tables and three dealers. Commissioner Paulson asked Mr. McReynolds from Sundown South what their operation is like. Mr. McReynolds responded that they only play 21 and they also cash in chips at the bar. The dealers own their tables, and there are two tables in the bar. He recommend that they contact the dealer, Carl Roan, if they want expert testimony, as he is considered an expert by the Nevada Gaming Commission Commissioner Paulson asked Gary Olson what his operation was like. Mr. Olson responded that there is only 21 being played and they only have one table. He said that they sometimes play 21 in the afternoon as well as in the evening. He said that they have two dealers operating from his tavern. There was some discussion as to how long it would take to rewrite the ordinance. MOTION: YOUNG moved that this matter be continued for at least 30 days during which time County Counsel, the Sheriff's office, the District Attorney and operators get together and come up with a suggestion to repeal or write a new ordinance. PAULSON: Second. PAGE 4 OF 9 .Deschutes County Board of Commissioners October 6, 1982 - Courtday Meeting {J4 44 FACE ?2' 1 Commissioner Paulson stated that a number of statements made at this hearing indicate that violations of the current ordinance are occurring. He stated tha it was against the ordinance to have a house dealer. He sug- gested that this be put up for a vote before the residents of Deschutes County. Chairman Shepard stated that essential violations of the ordinance have been taking place openly. To ade- quately enforce the ordinance they would have to sub- stantially increase fees yet they are hearing testimony that says some of these establishments are barely making it as it is. He stated that he does not agree that the local restaurants are barely making it, based on their numbers and the new ones starting up. There was much further discussion. Commissioner Paulson suggested repealing the ordinance and considering a new one in its place. Chairman Shepard stated that Counsel is already very busy. If there are citizens who want the County to consider a new social gaming ordinance, they should draft one for their consideration because it is not in the county's interest to draw up a new gaming ordinance. VOTE: SHEPARD: NO. PAULSON: NO. YOUNG: AYE. MOTION: PAULSON moved that the Board adopt Ordinance #82-040 without the emergency clause. The motion died for lack of a second. MOTION: SHEPARD moved to have the first and second read- ing of the Ordinance by title only. YOUNG: Second. VOTE: SHEPARD: AYE. PAULSON: AYE. YOUNG: AYE. Chairman Shepard gave the first and second readings of Ordinance 82-040 by title only. MOTION: SHEPARD moved to approve Ordinance #82-040. PAULSON: Second. VOTE: SHEPARD: AYE. PAULSON: AYE. YOUNG: NO. Since this did not pass unanimously, they will place this on the agenda again in two weeks to be considered again. At that time, it will not require a unanimous vote for passage. Hearing re- Neil Hudson, Director of Public Works, stated that this garding Road was the result of a petition received from residents Hazard Abate- in the Masten Road Bridge area who are requesting that ment on Masten access to the river be provided on the County right of Road way next to the bridge. Currently the neighboring property owners have fenced to the bridge. They are requesting that gates be installed. The Department of Public Works sent the property owners (the Reeds and Gilchrist Timber Compapy) ordering them to place a gate, and if a gate were not placed this hearing would be held. This hearing is being held because the gates were not placed. PAGE 5 OF 9 Deschutes County Board of Commissioners October 6, 1982 - Courtday Meeting 44- Chairman Shepard opened the hearing. Donna Reed, 50750 Masten Road, LaPine, came forward. She stated that the fences have been there for 40 years and until recently they had had no problem. She said that she has never stoppped anyone from going in and swimming. She said that there are only about eight feet of access on either side of the bridge. She stated that they have been harrassed by having people come on to their land. She stated that this had started over a dog fight between her dog and a dog belonging to a person who was floating the river. She said that since the deputy went around to all the neighbors to tell them to stay off of their land there have been no problems, and no fences have been cut. She said that if they put gates up they will be left open and the stock will get out. Robert Bailey said that he has had his property in that area since 1969 and there was not a fence connected to the bridge at that time. Since the Reed's moved in, he stated that they have put up that fence and told people they can't swim there. He said that he had not been able to use the river this summer because of this. Bill Spears, representing the Gilchrist Timber Company, read aloud the letter that he had recieved from the Public Works Deparment ordering them to put up a gate. He did not feel that this order had been violated, but that by not placing the gate they had requested a hearing. He said that since he has been in the area the fence was always attached to the bridge, and it was attached to the old wooden bridge that formerly stood at that same site. He said that a few years ago the county requested from them additional right of way to build a new bridge and they did grant the county an additional eight to ten feet. After the bridge was completed they attached the fence to the new bridge just as they had to the old bridge. He stated that the fences had been up since 1943 that he knew of and that in 1969 they put in a gate but it was torn down. He also felt that there was no place to safely park in that area. All of the river in that area faces private property, so he felt that access was not necessary, and asked that the Board come and look at the area before making a decision. Robert Dody said that the cattle are still getting out even though the fences are not being tampered with. He said that if the fence were to be placed on the property line there would be plenty of room for access in and out of the river. PAGE 6 OF 9 Deschutes County Board of Commissioners ,-'October 6, 1982 - Courtday Meeting 4...A~ -E ..w.'r. •P Gail Johnson stated that they have had floating parties of up to 68 people and they access the river two miles upstream and exit at the bridge, and have never gone on the Reed's property. She also said that Mrs. Reed had left notes on cars telling people they can't park there. Donna Reed said that she had left notes telling people that it was private property on either side of the bridge. She stated that there have been people coming up onto her property and have been on Diamond International's property. Learl Sonders said that she had written a.letter asking what the public access rights were. She had owned land near Prineville that abutted a river and they were required to provide access. She stated that there were many people in the area who would like to use the river. Jim Jones, Masten Road, said that he sometimes uses the river and that there is access at the top end, and there were no problems with using the river until the Reed's moved in. He volunteered to build a fence access. Mr. Steers asked if they could be allowed to fence across the river since people leave the river before reaching Gilchrist Timber land. The Reeds also said they would like to be allowed to fence across the river. Neil Hudson stated that gates property owner but the public the river. He suggested that be installed. There was some and it was agreed that a stil south.side of the bridge. can be a problem for the does have a right to access a cattle guard or stile further general discussion e should be place on the Award of Bids Neil Hudson had given the Board a memo outlining the for American bids received and the amounts. Three bids had been Lane and Simp- received. The low bidder was R.L. Coats who bid $39,300. son Avenue MOTION: PAULSON moved to award the bid for the paving of American Lane and Simpson Avenue to R.L. Coats & Co. in the amount of $39,300. YOUNG: Second. VOTE: SHEPARD: AYE. PAULSON: AYE. YOUNG: AYE. Discussion re- Lin Bernhard, Planning Department, explained that she garding Waiver had a request for waiver of fees on a conditional use of Fees for application from Terry Van Dever. Ms. Van Dever is Conditional going to place a mobile home on her property for six Use for Mobile months and then remove it, and is applying for a tempor- Home Placement ary use permit. However, according to the ordinance, a temporary use permit can only be issued in conjuction with a conditional use application. Because the condi- tional use will not be used; the trailer will be removed PAGE 7 OF 9 ,Deschutes County Board of Commissioners October 6, 1982 - Courtday Meeting J ~m,L 4 r at the same time the temporary use expires; she is asking that the $110 fee for the conditional use application be waived. There was some further discussion. Ms. Van Dever was present and answered questions. MOTION: PAULSON moved that they waive the fee and if the mobile home remains after six months then the fee would have to be paid. YOUNG: Second. VOTE: SHEPARD: AYE. PAULSON: AYE. YOUNG: AYE. MJP-81-14, Craig Smith, Planning Department, brought this before H.G. Findlay the Board for signature and approval. MOTION: PAULSON moved to approve MJP-81-14. YOUNG: Second. VOTE: SHEPARD: AYE. PAULSON: AYE. YOUNG: AYE. Final Plat Mr. Smith brought this before the Board for signature #630, Spakers and approval. Acres MOTION: PAULSON moved to approve Final Plat #630, Spaker's Acres. YOUNG: Second. VOTE: SHEPARD: AYE. PAULSON: AYE. YOUNG: AYE. It was noted that this contract for Sheriff's patrol of Forest Service property was the same as in years previous. MP-82-19, Duke Lin Bernhardt, Planning Department, brought this before Warner the Board for signature and approval. MOTION: PAULSON moved to approve MP-82-19. YOUNG: Second. VOTE: SHEPARD: AYE. PAULSON: AYE. YOUNG: AYE. Request for Before the Board was a request for refund in the amount Refund of $44.00 to Ed Dahl from the Planning Department. The Board approved the request. Forest Ser- MOTION: PAULSON moved to approve the contract with vice Contracts the Forest Service. YOUNG: Second. VOTE: SHEPARD: AYE. PAULSON: AYE. YOUNG: AYE. PAGE 8 OF 9 Vol . 44 qrt-? Deschutes County Board of Commissioners Ocotber 6, 1982 - Courtday Meeting Order 82-340, Chairman Shepard read the order aloud for the record. Making Approp- MOTION: PAULSON moved to approve. riations YOUNG: Second Transfers VOTE: SHEPARD: AYE. PAULSON: AYE. YOUNG: AYE. Discussion re- Chairman Shepard read aloud the memo for the record. garding Weight The Road Department recommended a ten- ton weight limit Restrictions on that road. on Paulina MOTION: PAULSON moved that they adopt the recommenda- Lake Road tion and establish the weight limit. YOUNG: Second. VOTE: SHEPARD: AYE. PAULSON: AYE. YOUNG: AYE. Once the order is drawn by Counsel the Board will sign it outsi de of the meeting. DESC U COUNTY B AR OF COMMISSIONERS C S PAR~IRMAN ALB YOUNG, CO/VMM~~'IS NER C~ BERT C. PAULSO JR., CO STONE /ss PAGE 9 OF 9