12 OCT 04.docCITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
OCTOBER 4, 2012
7:00 P.M. – 7:40 P.M.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY HALL - #1 MUNICIPAL DRIVE
The City Council of the City of
Jacksonville, Arkansas met in regular session on October 4, 2012 at the regular meeting place of the City Council. Alderman Howard delivered the invocation and Mayor Fletcher led a
standing audience in the “Pledge of Allegiance” to the flag.
ROLL CALL: Aldermen: Elliott, McCleary, Sansing, Ray, Rinker, Traylor, Stroud, Robinson, and Howard answered roll call.
Mayor Fletcher also answered ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. PRESENT NINE (9), ONE SEAT OPEN. ABSENT (0).
Others present for the meeting were: City Attorney Robert Bamburg, Finance
Director Cheryl Erkel, City Engineer Jay Whisker, Nick Whisker, Public Works Director Jim Oakley, Police Chief Gary Sipes, Human Resource Director Jill Ross, IT Director Barbara McDaniel,
Battalion Chief Joe Bratton, CDBG Director Theresa Watson, Parks and Recreation Director Kristen Kennon, Assistant Parks and Recreation Director Kevin House, 911 Communications Director
Tabby Hughes, A&P Chairman Mike Houchen, Pastor Ricky Allen, Planning Commissioner Jim Moore, Glenda Fletcher, Mary Twitty, Roger Sundermeier, Freddie Booker, interested citizens, and
members of the press.
PRESENTATION OF MINUTES:
Mayor Fletcher presented the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of September 20, 2012 for approval and/or correction at the
next regularly scheduled City Council meeting.
APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES:
Alderman Howard moved, seconded by Alderman Ray that the minutes of the regular City Council meeting
of 6 September 2012 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED.
CONSENT AGENDA: REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/ANIMAL CONTROL
Alderman Ray moved, seconded by Alderman Elliott to approve the regular monthly
Animal Control report for September 2012. Said report reflects:
ADOPTION/FINES: $1,085.00
CONTRIBUTIONS: $ 0.00
TOTAL: $1,085.00
REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/ENGINEERING
DEPARTMENT
Alderman Ray moved, seconded by Alderman Elliott to approve the regular monthly report for September 2012.
PERMITS/LICENSE ISSUED INSPECTIONS PREFORMED
Building Permits
13 Building Inspections 93
Business Licenses 4 Electrical 61
Plumbing 92 HVACR 34
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
OCTOBER 4, 2012
7:00 P.M. – 7:40 P.M.
ROLL CALL: Aldermen: Elliott, McCleary, Sansing, Ray, Rinker, Traylor, Stroud, Robinson, and
Howard voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED.
WATER DEPARTMENT:
WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT:
FIRE DEPARTMENT:
POLICE DEPARTMENT:
STREET DEPARTMENT:
SANITATION DEPARTMENT:
PARKS & RECREATION:
PLANNING COMMISSION:
GENERAL: a. RESOLUTION 685 (#11-2012)
A RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF THE AUTHORIZATION FOR THE MAYOR AND CITY CLERK TO ENTER INTO A MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT WITH THE
ARKANSAS GAME & FISH FOUNDATION FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF A SPORT SHOOTING RANGE FACILITY IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Alderman Ray moved, seconded by Alderman
Sansing to read Resolution 685 (#11-2012). MOTION CARRIED with Alderman Robinson abstaining. Whereupon City Attorney Bamburg read the heading of Resolution 685 (#11-2012).
Alderman
Ray moved to approve Resolution 685 (#11-2012).
Mr. Bobby Martin, Chairman of the Board for the Foundation of the Game & Fish Commission, related that the Foundation is a 30-year institution,
which is a 501(C) (3) that is partnered with the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission. He stated that the Foundation is the advocacy for wildlife habitat and conservation that helps raise
funds to advance the long-term heritage and tradition of the State. He stated that having this proposal before the City Council on behalf of the Foundation to fund 1.5 million dollars
as a portion of the shooting range and complex, is something the Foundation is very excited about. He related that the Foundation Board approved this proposal several months ago, following
a lengthy study that showed shooting sports, particularly youth related, are the fastest growing part of the program inside the State. He added that the tournament opportunities that
would be facilitated through the shooting complex are a very strategic and rapidly growing component of the Foundation. He stated that this complex would be relevant to economic opportunity
for the City of Jacksonville. He related that having the complex in Jacksonville for Central Arkansas is very fitting; adding that youth who participate in the shooting programs come
from 66 Arkansas counties and the number is still growing. He pointed out that there are approximately 7,000 youth this year alone participating in both gun and archery programs, supported
by 1,000 volunteer school coaches. He explained that archery is a separate program that is in 30% of the Arkansas schools. He related that the Commission requires schools to allow
the students to shoot a minimum of 10 days per year, noting that they are already shooting 30 days, saying that the program is well accepted. He went on to say that the archery program
is a part of what
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
OCTOBER 4, 2012
7:00 P.M. – 7:40 P.M.
the Foundation would want to see at the new complex. He stated that he is here to support
that recommendation and to relate the Foundation’s commitment of 1.5 million dollars toward the complex.
He then answered Alderman Traylor, that the Foundation is committed to retiring
the grant of 1.5 million within two years. He added that their campaign will begin immediately and payments would be made as funds come in to expeditiously retire that debt. He stated
that this would become their biggest fund-raising priority. He expressed confidence in their ability to retire the debt within two years. He then answered that the 1.5 million dollar
range is defined to accommodate what it takes to house and support tournaments, adding that the facility will have the potential for national tournaments. He stated that the archery
program that was handled by Hot Springs last May had over 2,000 students, adding that participation will continue to grow significantly.
Mayor Fletcher stated that the proposal is
a 2.2 million dollar project, adding that the City will contribute $600,000.00 to the project, which is for the building and the property purchase. He went on to say that he believes
this project also has some commitments from the County to help with the construction of the parking lot with intentions to four-lane the street from the stop sign down to the facility.
He stated that there are many partnerships for this complex, adding that it will be City owned and operated through the Jacksonville Parks and Recreation Department. He noted that
the proposal began with 10 stations but is now being considered for 15 stations, commenting that the excitement for this project keeps growing. He stated that Mark Perry, Phillip Carlisle,
and Tommy Bond among others, have been the catalysts behind this development. He then answered Alderman Traylor that the shooting stations are located approximately 600’ from Graham
Road.
Mayor Fletcher asked Assistant Parks and Recreation Director Kevin House to present an area economic impact study, noting that the survey was conservative.
Assistant Parks
and Recreation Director Kevin House stated that USFA uses the economic impact study for softball tournaments, explaining that as a youth sport it is comparative. He stated that over
the 5 weekends of the AYSSP, the four regionals that shoot constitute 4.8 million in economic impact, which is a conservative estimate. He stated that in speaking with Chuck Woodson
he understands that all four regionals with be held at this facility.
Mr. Martin then answered that there are teams from 66 Counties in Arkansas and some of them have as many as 18
shooting groups, adding that this is only the youth teams from schools. He surmised that the total number of youth teams would be over 200.
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
OCTOBER 4, 2012
7:00 P.M. – 7:40 P.M.
Mayor Fletcher noted that part of the contract agreement is that the Game & Fish would
have the facility for 7 weekends as a separate participating entity.
Mr. Martin stated that currently these tournaments have been held at Remington, which is limited in the size it
can handle nor can it accommodate the families that travel in for the youth tournaments. He stated that the design of the proposed facility has been approved by the ATA (American Trap
Association), adding that those type of tournaments can only be held at facilities like this one. He went on to say that the smaller regional local trap ranges, such as in Batesville,
are also limited with only six to eight stations and are not up to the specifications for tournament level. He stated that this has always been a big challenge for the Commission, adding
that is why they stepped in because the tournament side is what will continue to make this facility grow. He promised that there would be many other cities that will be jealous they
did not get this facility in their communities. He stated that they can see growth to where this will become a national tournament facility, adding that this is what the Foundation will
be promoting. He stated that Arkansas is proud of its natural resources. He stated that their Commission and Foundation is the model for Louisiana, Texas, and Tennessee; pointing out
that this will add another jewel in Arkansas’ crown.
Mayor Fletcher commented, and Mr. Martin concurred, that this facility will be the “flag ship” of all.
Alderman Ray noted that
Maumelle had a tournament, inviting 30 teams and 40 showed up as evidence of how popular this sport has become. He added that when Remington hosts their tournament it is tremendously
overcrowded and the facility is overwhelmed.
Alderman Elliott related that participants are already coming to Central Arkansas to Remington for these tournaments and Remington is not
big enough, so they will definitely be coming to this facility instead.
Mayor Fletcher noted that the good thing about this location is that there is room to expand later if the need
arises.
Mr. Martin noted that families travel for this sport, pointing out the positive local economic impact.
Other groups for adult sports were mentioned as well as this facility
being a “point” range for sportsman keeping their qualifications.
Mr. Martin concurred with Alderman Traylor that while this is a lot of money, they are comfortable with the amount
because they are aware of the potential and they would like to have their name associated with the facility and the City of Jacksonville. He added that obviously they do
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
OCTOBER 4, 2012
7:00 P.M. – 7:40 P.M.
not do that without a lot of thought and care in terms of its ability to be highly successful,
promoted correctly, and operated at standards everyone can be proud of. He stated that all partners have a reputation with its success.
Mayor Fletcher related that a Board would be
created similar to that of the Baseball Commission under the umbrella of the Parks & Recreation Commission to ensure that it remains a first-class facility.
Mr. Martin stated that
the Foundation would also use the facility for their tournaments and events regarding fund raisers and other activities involved with education. He stated that this facility is strategic
for them and addressed their top priority. He stated that regarding expectations and expansion this is a great location.
Mayor Fletcher noted the popularity of small groups that
even fly in for personal or company sponsored competition events.
Alderman Robinson stated that he pulled the A&P revenue data from Lonoke regarding when Remington has their regional
meet, saying that the restaurants went up 36% and the hotels went up 81%.
Mayor Fletcher stated that this proposal is an investment for the City with a huge return.
In response
to a question from Alderman Traylor, Assistant Parks and Recreation Director Kevin House answered that the annual operational budget for the first year is approximately $280,000. He
related that this includes staffing as well as one-time expenses such as the security system, office furniture; things that will have to be purchased the first year that will not be
a reoccurring expense. He estimated that otherwise the annual budget would be $220,000 to $240,000. He then answered that participation regarding the AYSSP would be approximately 1
million clays annually (according to Chuck Woodson) amounting to $160,000 just for that one group of ATA. He went on to say that ATA is also proposing to bring their tournaments to
this facility, saying that from all indications this facility will definitely be self-supporting.
Discussion ensued regarding the various other events and groups that would be using
the facility for their regularly held events.
Alderman Robinson concurred with Assistant Parks and Recreation Director Kevin House that there would also be registration fees that can
be considered as revenue.
Hours of operation were discussed and Assistant Parks and Recreation Director Kevin House noted that there have been suggestions for being closed Monday
and Tuesday, while remaining open for the weekend. He concurred with Alderman Traylor that it would be available to the general public.
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
OCTOBER 4, 2012
7:00 P.M. – 7:40 P.M.
City Attorney Bamburg addressed the issue of liabilities for the City, clarifying that
shooting ranges are similar to other activities within the State, saying that participants could sign waivers. He stated that this would reduce the liability, adding that as a public
facility the City would have torte immunity. He concluded that while there is some amount of liability the City is in a better position to guard itself, adding that there are State
statutes that protect these circumstances that make the required waivers stronger and more likely to be upheld by the Courts.
Mayor Fletcher stated that the students have been trained
and had safety education, adding that it is not a situation of just giving guns to kids.
In response to a question from Alderman Robinson, Assistant Parks and Recreation Director
Kevin House stated that when he attended the tournaments at Remington the Game & Fish wardens conducted security.
Mr. Martin noted in terms of the agreement when it comes to tournaments,
everything relative to hunter safety or fire arm safety as their standard will be conducted by the Game & Fish Commission.
A&P Chairman Mike Houchen stated that he would like to reaffirm
the commitment of the Commission, pointing out that they are aware of the area economic impact and the image for Jacksonville. He stated that the A&P Commission is already formulating
a plan for next year regarding how to market and advertise this facility. He stated that the Commission could contribution $100,000 to $125,000 to help bring this proposal to fruition,
adding that Jacksonville has needed this for a long time. He stated that the A&P Commission could make the first year’s payments and allow the Parks & Recreation Department to accumulate
funds and turn a profit so that in 2014 they should be able to stand on their own as well as pay the note. He suggested that the Parks & Recreation Department use 75% of the funds to
pay off the loan and use 25% to make improvements to the shooting range. He stated that he believes he could convince the Commission to support this proposal. He noted that the Commission
is pressed for time because they have to submit their budget next month, so they will need to know what funds need to be set aside to help with this project.
Alderman Traylor asked
and Finance Director Cheryl Erkel concurred that she is comfortable with making the $600,000 loan.
Mayor Fletcher noted that several individuals in the Community see the merit in this
proposal, adding that he believes one reason the County Judge is willing to be a partner is because he realizes this will boost the County Sales Tax.
Alderman Sansing noted that currently
interest rates are at a historic low so now is the best time for the City to borrow for the future and to make an investment in itself.
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
OCTOBER 4, 2012
7:00 P.M. – 7:40 P.M.
Alderman Ray moved, seconded by Alderman Traylor to approve Resolution 685 (#11-2012)
in its entirety. MOTION CARRIED with Alderman Robinson abstaining.
b. RESOLUTION 686 (#12-2012)
A RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF THE PURCHASE OF ONE HUNDRED SIXTY (160) ACRES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT
OF A SPORT SHOOTING RANGE FACILITY FOR THE CITY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Alderman Ray moved, seconded by Alderman McCleary to read Resolution 686 (12-2012).
In response to a question
from Alderman Ray, City Attorney Bamburg clarified that Resolution 685 authorized the Mayor to enter into a memorandum of agreement with the Game & Fish Foundation and Resolution 686
is the purchase of the property, which is unbudgeted funds.
Alderman Elliott noted that this facility will be one of the best “all over the State” publicity items for Jacksonville.
He stated that if the Game & Fish are behind the proposal you can be assured that they have done their homework.
In response to a question from Alderman Traylor, Mayor Fletcher stated
that the site was chosen because of the population, adding that while part of it is outside the City, the business area is inside the City. He then noted the vicinity of a four-lane
road, further noting that most of Jacksonville is landlocked and the only direction available was east. He stated that the land is not desirable for residential development, saying that
it is only good for farming or shooting.
MOTION CARRIED with Alderman Robinson abstaining. Whereupon City Attorney Bamburg read the heading of Resolution 686 (#12-1012).
Alderman
Ray moved, seconded by Alderman Sansing to approve Resolution 686 (#12-2012) in its entirety. MOTION CARRIED with Alderman Robinson abstaining.
c. CDBG Request to accept bid for Boys
and Girls Club bathroom renovation
CDBG Director Theresa Watson related that she is requesting permission to reject the lowest bid and award the bid to Western Millwright Services,
noting the difference in bids is approximately $200.00. She explained that last June the lowest bidder did a CDBG project and there were problems with the job, adding since that time
she has been trying to get S & S Home Improvements to correct those problems.
Alderman Sansing moved, seconded by Alderman Ray to reject the low bid and award the project to the next
lowest bidder Western Millwright Services in the amount of $37,020.00. MOTION CARRIED.
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
OCTOBER 4, 2012
7:00 P.M. – 7:40 P.M.
APPOINTMENT(S): NORTH PULASKI WATERWORKS P.F.B.
Alderman Elliott moved, seconded by
Alderman Ray to approve the reappointment of William Driggers for a term to expire 10/2/2016 and the reappointment of William Thompson for a term to expire 10/2/2017. MOTION CARRIED.
ANNOUNCEMENT(S): CDBG Director Theresa Watson noted that it is time for CDBG to conduct its public hearings to determine how to use funds for the year 2013. She related that three
public hearings have already been conducted and there are three more scheduled.
October 15, 2012 @ 6:00 p.m. 1212 Ray Road, Church of Jesus Christ;
October 16, 2012 @ 7:00 p.m. 201
W. Martin Street, Martin Street Recreation Center; and
October 23, 2012 @ 1017 Ray Road, Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church
Alderman Elliott encouraged everyone who can to attend at least one
of the hearings. He noted that participation is generally low and the City would like to see more citizens attend these public hearings.
Jill Ross announced that the Jacksonville Senior
and Wellness Activity Center is hosting their annual Beans and Cornbread lunch on October 24th, tickets are $5.00.
ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor Fletcher adjourned the meeting
at approximately 7:40 p.m. MOTION CARRIED.
Respectfully,
________________________ _________________________
Susan L. Davitt MAYOR GARY FLETCHER
City Clerk-Treasurer