98 AUG 20.DOC
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
AUGUST 20, 1998
7:00 P.M. - 7:30 P.M.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY HALL - #1 MUNICIPAL DR.
The City Council of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas met in
Regular Session on August 20, 1998 at the regular meeting place of
the Council. Alderman Smith delivered the invocation after which
Mayor Swaim led the standing audience in the "Pledge of
Allegiance" to the flag.
ROLL CALL: Aldermen: Elliott, Smith, Lewis, Sansing, Ray,
Wilson, Fletcher, Williamson, Keaton, and Howard answered ROLL
CALL. Mayor Swaim also answered ROLL CALL declaring a quorum.
PRESENT ten (10), ABSENT (0).
Others present for the meeting were: City Attorney Robert E.
Bamburg, Deputy City Clerk Susan Davitt, Human Resource Director
Steve Ward, City Engineer Duane Reel, Public Works Director Murice
Green, Police Chief Larry Hibbs, OECD Director Frank Rowland, Fire
Chief John Vanderhoof, Mrs. Judy Swaim, Mrs. Dee Dee Hibbs, Mrs.
Edith Smith, Mrs. Robert Lewis, interested citizens and members of
the press.
PRESENTATION OF MINUTES:
Mayor Swaim presented the minutes of the Regular City Council
Meeting of August 6, 1998 for approval and/or correction at the
next Regular City Council Meeting.
APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES:
Alderman Elliott moved, seconded by Alderman Smith that the
minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of 16 July 1998 be
APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED.
CONSENT AGENDA:
REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/POLICE DEPARTMENT
Alderman Wilson moved, seconded by Alderman Ray that the Regular
Monthly Report for July of the Jacksonville Police Department be
APPROVED. Said report reflects; Fine Settlements $63,165.00,
Miscellaneous Payments $ .00, Report Sales $312.00 making TOTAL
COLLECTIONS: $63,477.00. ASSESSED: $40,291.68. ROLL CALL:
Aldermen: Elliott, Smith, Lewis, Sansing, Ray, Wilson, Fletcher,
Williamson, Keaton and Howard voted AYE. NAY 0. MOTION CARRIED.
REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/FIRE DEPARTMENT
Alderman Wilson moved, seconded by Alderman Ray that the Regular
Monthly Report for July of the Jacksonville Fire Department be
APPROVED. (Said report reflects an estimated fire loss of
$83,725.00 for the month of July.) ROLL CALL: Aldermen:
Elliott, Smith, Lewis, Sansing, Ray, Wilson, Fletcher, Williamson,
Keaton and Howard voted AYE. NAY 0. MOTION CARRIED.
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CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
AUGUST 20, 1998
7:00 P.M. - 7:30 P.M.
REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/OECD
Alderman Wilson moved, seconded by Alderman Ray that the Regular
Monthly Report for July, of Economic and Community Development
Department be approved. Said report reflects:
JUNE YR-TO DATE
CD Public Improvement Projects:
a. Projects Bid ............................... 0 1
b. Pre-construction Conference ................ 0 2
c. Interim Inspection ......................... 6 17
d. Project Close-out .......................... 0 2
Homebuyer Assistance Grants (HAG):
Applications received ......................... 0 6
Approval Pending .............................. 0 N/A
Grants Approved ............................... 3 7
Housing Rehabilitation:
a. Letters to prospective applicants .......... 1 32
b. Applications received ...................... 0 10
c. Work write-up & cost estimate .............. 4 20
d. Bids Advertised ............................ 2 20*
e. Project Starts ............................. 3 17
f. Interim inspections ........................ 36 28
g. Project Close-outs ......................... 3 12
h. Emergency Inspection/Worked ................ 0/0 1/2
i. Warranty Repairs ........................... 1 4
j. Disability Access (program adds 3/98)........ 1 2
k. Care with Color (program add 4/98).......... 0 3
*includes redo
MEETINGS:
Informational Meetings (OE/CD) ................ 1/1 21/26
Public Meeting (OE/CD) ........................ 0/0 0/6
Conferences/Seminars/Training (OE/CD) ......... 0/1 0/7
ROLL CALL: Aldermen: Elliott, Smith, Lewis, Sansing, Ray,
Wilson, Fletcher, Williamson, Keaton, and Howard, voted AYE, NAY
(0). MOTION CARRIED.
DEVIATION IN AGENDA:
GENERAL: 7:00 p.m. PUBLIC HEARING for CDBG / Goshen Street
Project
OECD Director Frank Rowland related that the project was first
proposed in 1995 with monies allocated in 1996 to extend Goshen
Street which leads directly into Johnson Park and connects with
Ray Road. He related that the land was unable to be secured and
stated that HUD will withdraw the funds if not allocated in a two
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year time frame. He stated that he learned after speaking
with area
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
AUGUST 20, 1998
7:00 P.M. - 7:30 P.M.
residents that they are pleased with the condition of Johnson Park
and have no reservations concerning the proposed street. He asked
that Council, at a later meeting, cancel project funding and allow
those funds to be diverted for other needed areas under the Office
of Economic and Community Development.
After Mr. Rowland's comments, Mayor Swaim opened the Public
Hearing for input from the audience and Council members at
approximately 7:06 p.m.
In response to a comment from Alderman Smith, Mayor Swaim
concurred that Mr. Fulton will not sell the property even though
the City has offered as much as $25,000.00, which is far above the
actual value of the property. Mayor Swaim stated that the only
other choice is for the City to condemn the property and he does
not see the necessity of doing so.
Mayor Swaim related that there are other areas in need of the
money mentioning Spring Street and the School Project.
It was concluded that in approximately thirty days further
proposals would be brought before the Council for consideration.
With no further comment, Mr. Rowland presented a certificate of
recognition, from Arkansas Development and Finance Authority
Program to Mayor Swaim and the City of Jacksonville, by Governor
Huckabee for a $250,000.00 grant received to build new homes in
the Sunnyside Addition.
Mr. Mayor related that he and Mr. Rowland have worked on the
program and are very proud for the City of Jacksonville to receive
this kind of recognition. He stated that previous programs for
Sunnyside have not always been as successful as hoped, adding that
the new program is very innovative in that this is the first time
it has been tried in the State. He related that originally they
requested $500,000.00 adding that half of that amount was
approved. He stated that repayment funds from new home loans will
be used to build more homes in the neighborhood. He said that
this will give low to moderate income families an opportunity to
have a home that they may not otherwise be able to have in
different situations. He stated that it was not easy to get the
program funded and congratulated Mr. Rowland for his
accomplishment.
Mayor Swaim declared the public hearing closed at approximately
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7:10 p.m.
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
AUGUST 20, 1998
7:00 P.M. - 7:30 P.M.
In response to a question from the audience, Mayor Swaim
reiterated that the monies are for new homes planned for
approximately six vacant lots already owned by the City of
Jacksonville.
RESUME AGENDA:
WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT:
FIRE DEPARTMENT:
POLICE DEPARTMENT:
STREET DEPARTMENT:
PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT: Improvements for Dupree Park/1999
American Legion Regional Tournament
Mayor Swaim related that the item was last discussed at budget
time. He then related that past efforts to secure the American
Legion Regional Tournament have been unsuccessful because the ball
fields did not meet with criteria. He related that Mr.
Higginbotham felt the Tournament could be secured if the City
would commit to certain improvements. He noted the need for
adequate lighting for T V cameras, concession stand, announcer’s
booth, and larger stands improvements. He said that the baseball
program participants have talked with area businesses and secured
volunteers and donations of building material and equipment for
improvements if the City will help with funding. He stated that
funding has been set aside in Capital Improvement in anticipation
for securing the regional tournament. He related that the City
has been awarded the regional tournament which will include
participation from six states adding that all improvements
mentioned, with the exception of the lighting, are already needed
improvements. He informed the Council that in working with the
finance director the City has managed to set aside $75,000.00. He
related that Alderman Wilson has worked with Mr. Higginbotham
collecting funds for the project. He stated that after consulting
with the City auditor regarding bidding regulations, the donation
of equipment and manpower; the best avenue for the City would be
to "contract" with the baseball association. He stated that the
City has done so with the Elderly Activity Center and the Boys
Club meaning that the City would agree to furnish a certain amount
of funds for the project to be built to specifications as reviewed
by the City Engineer and inspected by the City Inspectors which
meets with the criteria of the audit.
Alderman Wilson emphasized that the facilities were originally
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built eighteen years ago with help from the Jacksonville Baseball
Youth Association and need to be replaced regardless of the
tournament status. He related that improvements will enhance the
ability to host future events significantly. He commended the
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
AUGUST 20, 1998
7:00 P.M. - 7:30 P.M.
efforts made by everyone involved and noted that the benefit of
hosting teams from seven states more than warrant the expenditure.
Mayor Swaim cited extensive building plans including a new
bathroom as proposed in the 1998 budget as much needed. He stated
that the estimated total cost will come when the plans have been
completed and surmised that it could be as much as 200,000.00;
citing the lighting as the major expense, adding that there is
hope that all or part will come from donations. He stated that
the City investment will most likely double itself for this
project.
Mayor Swaim related that funds were budgeted as "unappropriated
funds" in the Capital Improvement Fund. He explained that part of
the funds are expected to be spent in 1998 and carried over into
1999.
Alderman Sansing stated that it is a wise investment to make
improvements and promote tourism in Jacksonville.
Alderman Sansing moved, seconded by Alderman Elliott to allow the
Mayor and City Clerk to enter into a contract with the Youth
Baseball Association after plan approval by the City Engineer, and
appropriate $75,000.00 in matching funds from Capital Improvement.
MOTION CARRIED.
PLANNING COMMISSION: FINAL PLAT / Bushwood Subdivision PH. II
In response to a question posed by Commissioner Elliott, City
Engineer Reel related that stipulations from the Planning
Commission have been satisfied.
Alderman Wilson moved, seconded by Alderman Elliott that the Final
Plat of the Bushwood Subdivision PH II be approved.
In response to a question posed by Alderman Fletcher it was noted
that the property is not located in the flood zone.
At this time the MOTION CARRIED.
DEVIATION IN AGENDA:
Alderman Keaton stated that there has been some citizen concern
for the possible development of a Wal-Mart Super Center south of
Vandenberg Drive and asked for an update.
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Mayor Swaim related that to his knowledge there has not been a
formal request for such a development adding that he is aware of
the recent rumors of a development in that area. He reiterated
that based on the depth of rumor he would not be surprised if
plans CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
AUGUST 20, 1998
7:00 P.M. - 7:30 P.M.
were forthcoming, however, for the time being the City has not
received any such request. He stated that there had been some
confusion involving an option on two or three acres of property
which Mr. Ben Rice had requested to be rezoned so that he could
negotiate with a land developer; adding that any such plans were
never submitted to the City of Jacksonville. He related that the
only plans submitted to the City dealt with land to be used as an
air park museum. He stated that as soon as the City receives
development plans it will be available for public input, adding
that any plans for change in that area would have to be brought
before the Planning Commission before coming to the Council.
He offered that if anyone would like to speak regarding the issue,
the Council could suspend the rules and place it on the agenda.
He encouraged anyone concerned to call the office of the City
Clerk for further information regarding future Planning Commission
agendas and updates. It was noted that the next Planning
Commission meeting is scheduled for 14 September 1998.
APPOINTMENTS:
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Mayor Swaim invited everyone to attend the official closing
ceremony for Vertac which is scheduled for 1 September 1998 at
1:00 p.m. at City Hall. He related that EPA and State
representatives will attend and will offer a tour of the plant
site after the closing ceremony.
He related that the City Council and Planning Commission will host
a joint meeting 27th August 1998 at 6:30 p.m. at the Jacksonville
Community Center to talk about zoning and long term planning. He
related that Richard MaGee from Metroplan will help facilitate.
He encouraged attendance and offered answers to questions
involving procedure of land use map changes.
Alderman Smith commented on the positive article in the magazine
"City and Town" showcasing the City of Jacksonville.
Mayor Swaim concurred saying that it has received good comments
from all over the State, showing that Jacksonville has recovered
from "Vertac" and is working on perceptions regarding the schools,
adding that at this point in time, the City of Jacksonville is in
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an excellent position to have great things happen in "our"
community. He stated that he is encouraged by what is happening
now for the future.
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
AUGUST 20, 1998
7:00 P.M. - 7:30 P.M.
Alderman Fletcher stated that the article was well written and
could be an excellent tool for industrial recruitment.
Mayor Swaim related that the article was written by a staff writer
for Arkansas Municipal League, Mr. John Woodruff.
ADJOURNMENT:
Mayor Swaim without objection adjourned the meeting at
approximately 7:30 p.m.
Respectfully,
___________________________ ____________________________
Lula M. Hawkins MAYOR
City Clerk-Treasurer
____________________________
Susan L. Davitt
Deputy City Clerk
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