00 FEB 03.docCITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
FEBRUARY 3, 2000
7:00 P.M. – 8:46 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 February 3, 2000 at the regular meeting place of the Council. Boy Scouts Walter Walker and Nicholas Scottesing
from Troop 1028 led the standing audience in the “Pledge of Allegiance” to the flag after which Alderman Lewis delivered the invocation.
ROLL CALL: Aldermen: Elliott, Smith, Lewis, Gentry, Ray, Wilson, Fletcher, Williamson, and Howard were recorded as present. Mayor Swaim also answered ROLL CALL declaring a quorum.
PRESENT nine (9), ABSENT (1).
Others present for the meeting were: City Attorney Robert E. Bamburg, Deputy City Clerk Melanie Green, Human Resource Director Dennis Foor, Finance Director Paul Mushrush, City Engineer
Duane Reel, CDBG Director Frank Rowland, Parks and Recreation Director George Biggs, Parks and Recreation Chairman John Fortenbury, Police Chief Hibbs, Fire Chief Vanderhoof, Mr. Terry
Sansing, Mrs. Judy Swaim, Mrs. DeDe Hibbs, Mrs. Lindy Lewis, Mrs. Edith Smith, Justice of the Peace Mr. Dennis Sobba, Park and Recreation Commissioners Greg Bollen and Marcia Dornblaser,
Aquatics Instructor Diane Novotny, Parks and Recreation Marketing & Public Relations Director Annabelle Davis, Parks and Recreation Administration Manager Patty Walker, Leader Reporter
Rob Cox, Democrat-Gazette Reporter Larry Ault and interested citizens.
PRESENTATION OF MINUTES:
Mayor Swaim presented the minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of January 20, 2000 for approval and/or correction at the next Regular City Council Meeting.
APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES:
Alderman Smith moved, seconded by Alderman Elliott that the minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of 6 January 2000 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED.
CONSENT AGENDA:
REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/CDBG
Alderman Elliott moved, seconded by Alderman Gentry that the Regular Monthly Report for December 1999, of the Community Development Department be approved. Said report reflects:
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
FEBRUARY 3, 2000
7:00 P.M. – 8:46 P.M.
PROGRAM INQUIRIES: DECEMBER YR-TO-DATE
Rehab 4 24 Home 2 21
CDBG 3 26
Sewer 1 20
HAG 0 11
Home Buying 6 29
HOMEBUYER ASSISTANCE GRANT (HAG)
Applications 0 15
Approved 0 15
Processed & Closed 0 15
HOUSING REHAB APPLICATIONS
Loan Applications 1 11
Grant Applications 0 13
JOBS COMPLETED
HOME Funded Rehabs 1 6
CDBG Grant Rehabs 0 8
CDBG Emergency Grants 1 10
CDBG Sewer Grants 0 8
City Sewer Loans 1 4
CDBG Handicap 0 2
Warranty Repairs 1 5
Total 4 43
HOME BLDG/BUYING/RECONSTRUCTION SALES
Single family housing construction starts 0 3
Homes built or re-constructed/completed 0 3
Construction Sales 0 1
Mortgage Loan applications 2 11
Pending financing 3 n/a
Approved Mortgage loans 0 1
JBIP ACTIVITY
Students enrolled in current classes 0 26
Number of sessions held 0 42
Correspondence to new business 15 38
Applications taken 2 37
Promotional presentations 4 24
Visits/Consultations with students 3 42
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
FEBRUARY 3, 2000
7:00 P.M. – 8:46 P.M.
Student Grant/Loans 1 3
Graduates 0 23
Graduate business starts 0 6
PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS
A pre-construction conference was held for the Sage Street project with Lasiter.
ROLL CALL: Aldermen: Elliott, Smith, Lewis, Gentry, Ray, Wilson, Williamson, Fletcher, and Howard voted AYE, NAY (0). MOTION CARRIED.
WATER DEPARTMENT:
WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT:
WATER DEPARTMENT:
FIRE DEPARTMENT:
POLICE DEPARTMENT:
STREET DEPARTMENT:
PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT:
DEVIATION IN AGENDA:
b. PRESENTATION Coach of the Year 1999
Chairman John Fortenbury and Parks and Recreation Director George Biggs recognized 1999 Coaches of the Year regarding various youth organizations.
Brian Washington Football Association
Guy Ashenberger Baseball Association
Blake Woodson Soocer
Carl Moragne Youth Soccer
Mayor Swaim expressed appreciation and noted that the City owes a great debt of gratitude for their volunteerism.
RESUME AGENDA:
a. PRESENTATION Martin Street Pool
Mayor Swaim related that a committee was formed to address the difficulty of maintaining the Martin Street Center pool and has recommendations to offer the Council.
Parks and Recreation Commissioner Mr. Greg Bollen provided Council a fact sheet outlining repair cost raining from $3,500.00 to $14,000.00 every year regarding mainly the fiberglass
lining. He
related that for a pool of its size it is loosing twice the amount
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
FEBRUARY 3, 2000
7:00 P.M. – 8:46 P.M.
of water allowable. He stated that because of the consistent nature of repairs a committee began looking at recommendation from professionals. He related that one option is to maintain
the pool as is, adding that while this option will save money the down side is that the pool is thirty years old and may have further problems. He related that fourteen years ago the
pool was renovated and has had continued to have core problems and that there is concern that further renovation could prove that the core may need to be redone. He said that the rough
estimate of $40,000.00 would only maintain status quo and that a total renovation of the pool would cost approximately $800,000.00 which would bring the pool up to ADA codes. He then
related problems with the bathhouse that was not included in the project report, but will need to be replaced soon. He stated that the total $800,00.00 renovation could still have future
problems, adding that the Larkin Company considered this option to be one of poor investment.
He said that that the second option is to totally re-do the pool, which would cost up to 2.5 million for a water theme park. He stated that while it is a large amount of money, long
term it might be wise for the City to consider different options regarding a water theme park. He presented Council with two option sketches from just renovation of the pool with only
a four-foot maximum depth in the pool or a one-pool water theme park utilizing slides and diving board. He related that several cities are looking into this type of water development.
He stated that the advantage is that it is user friendly for the family with focus on the children. He mention this to be a new trend being offered to families, adding that the response
to this type of facility has been incredible. He stated that this type of facility attracts users from neighboring cities.
The third option presented to Council featured a two-pool water theme park, which was favored by the Committee. He stated that the cost is not any greater than the other water theme
park with only one pool, adding that this option allows you to separate the shallow pool with water activity for younger children and a deeper pool for lap swimming and diving boards.
He stated that the Committee feels there needs to be a decision regarding the future of the pool. He said that the option is to move forward or remain the same, adding that it would
leave Council with the responsibility to locate funds for such an expansion.
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
FEBRUARY 3, 2000
7:00 P.M. – 8:46 P.M.
In response to a question from Alderman Wilson, Mr. Bollen related that technology in pool construction has greatly improved.
Alderman Fletcher suggested that an information campaign be offered to the community to build interest in support for funding. He voiced support for a family unit focus for Jacksonville
mentioning the recent recommendations regarding sidewalks. He suggested the possibility of a hamburger tax such as other cities, adding that he felt the repairs have been “good money
after bad” and now needs to be addressed. He related that it becomes a part of tourism, adding that he was also in support of locating Wild River Country in Jacksonville years before.
He reiterated that a campaign informing the public and receiving feedback regarding funding should be forthcoming.
Alderman Wilson raised questions regarding soil conditions for rebuilding the pool, which could not be addressed by the Larkin Company until they could examine the core of the existing
facility.
Mr. Bollen elaborated that there are unknowns as to what is under the base of the pool, which is part of the reason the Larkin Company is not leaning toward a total renovation of the
existing pool. He reminded Council of the conditions surrounding the amount of water loss regarding the pool presently.
Parks and Recreation Chairman John Fortenbury stated that the pool has remained filled to help stop the de-lamination and that the pool will be uncovered in late February. He said that
there would undoubtedly be necessary repairs to the pool.
Mr. Bollen concurred and stated that he is sure that the filtration system will have to be replaced regarding compliance and that a new filtration system will need to be added to the
small pool. He said that given these needs it becomes a better time to think about moving forward with future plans.
In response to a question from Alderman Ray, Mr. Bollen related that construction could begin at the end of August and could be completed by the re-opening of the pool for summer. He
did mention that unforeseen repairs to the existing pool could delay the opening.
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
FEBRUARY 3, 2000
7:00 P.M. – 8:46 P.M.
Discussion ensued and Justice of the Peace Dennis Sobba offered the suggestion of grants. Mayor Swaim noted that the last significant grant received by the City was to construct the
Babe Ruth field in Dupree Park. It was further noted that the construction of a water theme park would require the relocation of the sand volleyball court and one of the picnic areas,
however, parking would be adequate.
Alderman Smith concurred that he felt annual repairs would be evident and that he would like to see a move in the direction of offering a facility that Jacksonville can be proud of.
He supported the suggestion of offering information to the public for feedback and stated that he felt the drawings are innovative.
Mayor Swaim suggested that the committee begin work regarding public information and interest for financing. He stated concerns that a prepared food tax, based on previous numbers,
might not be enough income to retire a 2.5 million-dollar bond issue.
Alderman Wilson proposed that three or four Council members work with the committee to explore financing options for offer to the public. He then suggested further work regarding figures
and possible soil samples.
Mayor Swaim noted that Aldermen Gentry and Williamson currently serve from Council for the Parks and Recreation Commission. Aldermen Smith and Wilson volunteered to work with the committee.
Alderman Elliott expressed appreciation to the committee was and Mayor Swaim concurred relating that capital project of this magnitude generally take years depending on public interest.
Request to accept bid for a Vertical Wheelchair Lift at the American Legion Baseball Field
Mayor Swaim related that it is an ADA requirement, adding that the ballfield was constructed after the regulation was passed.
Alderman Wilson moved, seconded by Alderman Ray to accept the bid from Accessibility Specialties in the amount of $16,141.61 as budgeted funds. MOTION CARRIED.
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
FEBRUARY 3, 2000
7:00 P.M. – 8:46 P.M.
PLANNING COMMISSION:
ORDINANCE 1132 (#4-2000)
AN ORDINANCE RECLASSIFYING PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS (GENERAL LOCATION: 1412 STANPHILL ROAD, JACKSONVILLE ARKANSAS): AMENDING ORDINANCE NOS. 213 AND 238 AND THE
LAND USE MAP OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Alderman Gentry moved, seconded by Alderman Smith that Ordinance 1132 be placed on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Aldermen Elliott, Smith, Lewis, Gentry, Ray, Wilson, Fletcher, Williamson,
and Howard voted AYE. NAY (0). Motion received nine (9) affirmative votes, (0) negative votes. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon, City Attorney Bamburg read the Ordinance.
Alderman Ray moved, seconded by Alderman Smith to dispense with the reading of Ordinance 1132 in its entirety. ROLL CALL: Aldermen Elliott, Smith, Lewis, Gentry, Ray, Wilson, Fletcher,
Williamson, and Howard voted AYE. NAY (0). Motion received nine (9) affirmative votes, (0) negative votes. MOTION CARRIED.
Alderman Ray moved, seconded by Alderman Gentry to suspend the rules and place Ordinance 1132 on SECOND READING.
Discussion ensued and it was determined to be a small piece of property less than one acre adjacent to R-4 on two sides.
ROLL CALL: Aldermen Elliott, Smith, Lewis, Gentry, Ray, Wilson, Fletcher, Williamson, and Howard voted AYE. NAY (0). Motion received nine (9) affirmative votes, (0) negative votes.
MOTION CARRIED.
Alderman Fletcher moved, seconded by Alderman Gentry to further suspend the rules and place Ordinance 1132 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Aldermen Elliott, Smith, Lewis, Gentry,
Ray, Wilson, Fletcher, Williamson, and Howard voted AYE. NAY (0). Motion received nine (9) affirmative votes, (0) negative votes. MOTION CARRIED.
Alderman Smith moved, seconded by Alderman Gentry to APPROVE AND ADOPT Ordinance 1132 as amended. ROLL CALL: Aldermen Elliott, Smith, Lewis, Gentry, Ray, Wilson, Fletcher, Williamson,
and Howard voted AYE. NAY (0). Motion received nine (9) affirmative votes, (0) negative votes. MOTION CARRIED.
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
FEBRUARY 3, 2000
7:00 P.M. – 8:46 P.M.
ORDINANCE APPROVED, ADOPTED AND NUMBERED 1132 THIS THE 3rd DAY OF
FEBRUARY 2000.
GENERAL: RESOLUTION 527 (#3-2000)
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR AND CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE TO EXECUTE ANY AND ALL NECESSARY DOCUMENTS FOR THE TRANSFER OF REAL PROPERTY ON BEHALF OF THE COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Mayor Swaim related the constructing of new homes and re-constructing of homes through the community development block grant program and the home program. He related that Mr. Rowland
has done that and the City had its first closure this week. He pointed out that it was required that specific authorization from the Council for the City Clerk and the Mayor to sign
for transfer be included.
Alderman Smith moved, seconded by Alderman Elliott to read Resolution 527. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Bamburg read the Resolution.
Alderman Lewis moved, seconded by Alderman Gentry to Approve Resolution 527 as presented.
Mayor Swaim commended Community Development for its hard work and success in the first newly constructed home. He related that the home appraised for $65,000.00 and enable a couple
to afford a home they might not have been able to otherwise.
At this time, MOTION CARRIED.
ADDITION TO AGENDA:
Alderman Elliott moved, seconded by Alderman Smith to suspend the rules and place the bid for Parks and Recreation regarding Lawncare on the agenda. MOTION CARRIED.
Discussion ensued and it was noted that while the bid is more expensive then the one last year, Mr. Biggs pointed out that this is due in part to the addition of the festival and soccer
complex area which is 20 acres and calls for six applications annually for weed control and fertilization and the planing of rye grass in October for use in February/March.
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
FEBRUARY 3, 2000
7:00 P.M. – 8:46 P.M.
Alderman Ray moved, seconded by Alderman Gentry to approve the bid from Extreme Green in the amount of $15,900.00 with funds to be drawn from budgeted funds. MOTION CARRIED.
APPOINTMENTS:
ANNOUNCEMENTS: TAX COLLECTOR for the City of Jacksonville
Justice of the Peace Dennis Sobba related that the Levy branch tax collector office will be relocated to the Jacksonville Revenue Office and should be opening approximately 15 March
2000.
He related for anyone interested that the present County Treasurer has decided not to run in the upcoming election.
Mayor Swaim expressed his thanks to City Employees for their work during the recent snowy weather, he stated that there were several departments that worked twelve-hour shifts during
that time through the night. He related that the road grader, a tractor with blades and two sand/salt trucks were used and related that there were compliments regarding the street clearance.
Human Resource Director Dennis Foor announced that the Census Van will be in Jacksonville on the 17th with four displays, and a grant is provide for “Power 92” radio station from 1:00
to 4:00 p.m. at the Community Center on behalf of the Census. He then related that there will be a Complete Count Committee meeting Tuesday February 8th at 7:00 p.m. relating to the
scheduling of volunteers and an update on a grant to commemorate April 1st Census day.
ADJOURNMENT:
Mayor Swaim without objection adjourned the meeting at approximately 8:06 p.m.
Respectfully,
________________________ _________________________
Susan L. Davitt MAYOR TOMMY SWAIM
City Clerk-Treasurer