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02 APR 04.doc CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 4, 2002 7:00 P.M. – 8:10 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 April 4, 2002 at the regular meeting place of the Council. Alderman Howard delivered the invocation and Mayor Swaim led a standing audience in the “Pledge of Allegiance” to the flag. ROLL CALL: Aldermen: Elliott, Smith, Sansing, Ray, Wilson, Fletcher, Stroud, Twitty and Howard answered roll call. Mayor Swaim also answered ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. PRESENT ten (10), ABSENT (0). Alderman Lewis arrived immediately following roll call. Others present for the meeting were: City Attorney Robert E. Bamburg, Deputy Clerk Teresa Carter, Director of Administration Murice Green, Human Resource Director Charlie Brown, Finance Director Paul Mushrush, City Engineer Jay Whisker, Public Works Director Jimmy Oakley, CDBG Director Theresa Watson, Police Chief Ruthven, Fire Chief Vanderhoof, Battalion Chief Kendal Snyder, Parks and Recreation Director George Biggs, Parks Administrator Patty Walker, Mrs. Judy Swaim, Mrs. Lendy Lewis, Mrs. Edith Smith, Mrs. Glenda Fletcher, Mr. Tommy Dupree, interested citizens and members of the press. PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Swaim presented the minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of March 21, 2002 for approval and/or correction at the next Regularly Scheduled City Council Meeting. APPROVAL AND/OR CORRECTION OF MINUTES: Alderman Smith moved, seconded by Alderman Ray that the minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of 7 March 2002 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED. CONSENT AGENDA: REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/ANIMAL CONTROL Alderman Elliott moved, seconded by Alderman Ray to approve the Regular Monthly Report for the month of March 2002. Said Report reflects: ADOPTION/FINES: 763.25 TOTAL: 763.25 REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/ENGINEERING Alderman Elliott moved, seconded by Alderman Ray to approve the Regular Monthly Report of March 2002. PERMITS/LICENSE ISSUED INSPECTIONS PERFORMED Building Permits 18 Building Inspections 35 Business License 11 HVACR 16 Electrical 32 Plumbing 45 1 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 4, 2002 7:00 P.M. – 7:24 P.M. UNSIGHTLY & UNSANITARY VEHICLES Grass Letters 0 Notice on Noncompliance 39 Property Mowed 0 Towed 3 Trash Letters 111 Trash Removal Cost for March $ 0.00 CONDEMNATIONS Structural Maint. Letters 0 Structural Repairs Made 0 Demolitions 0 ROLL CALL: Alderman Elliott, Smith, Lewis, Sansing, Ray, Wilson, Fletcher, Stroud, Twitty and Howard voted AYE. Motion received (10) AYE. (0) NAY. MOTION CARRIED. WATER DEPARTMENT: WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT: FIRE DEPARTMENT: POLICE DEPARTMENT: SANITATION DEPARTMENT: STREET DEPARTMENT: Request to Accept Bid for Asphalt Overlay Program Mayor Swaim related that the Overlay and Milling Programs were bid as a package deal. City Engineer Whisker stated that he compared costs with North Little Rock and Sherwood, saying that he feels the bid to be comparable given the scope of the program. He then answered that the costs for the previous year was approximately $34,500. Alderman Wilson requested a list of the various streets involved in the program. Alderman Wilson moved seconded by Alderman Ray to accept the low bid from Cranford Construction for a total estimated cost of $232,129.30 with funds to be drawn from budgeted Street Department funds. In response to a question posed by Alderman Wilson, Mayor Swaim related that Cranford Construction is ready to begin work next week, adding that if they begin next week a portion of Linda Lane would be delayed because of school activities. He related that one factor pertaining to low bids response was because of the high volume of work being performed on the Interstate. In response to a question posed by Alderman Howard, Mr. Green related that the program is worked on a seven-year plan and that the entire City is surveyed for repairs. He stated that an inventory of overlaid streets 2 is reviewed for maintenance consideration regarding previous repairs. CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 4, 2002 7:00 P.M. – 7:24 P.M. At this time, MOTION CARRIED. GENERAL: DEVIATION IN AGENDA c. RESOLUTION 560 (5-02) A RESOLUTION REQUESTING ACQUISITION OF THE UNION PACIFIC RAILROAD LINE RIGHTS-OF-WAY/EASEMENT CURRENTLY OWNED BUT NOT UTILIZED BY THE LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE (GENERAL LOCATION: SPUR LINE TO THE LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE THROUGH THE JACKSONVILLE INDUSTRIAL PARK); AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Mayor Swaim related that the right-of-way/easement is owned by the LRAFB, adding that the City has worked with the Leadership of LRAFB for many years to secure ownership of the railroad spur that begins adjacent to Trickey Lane and continues through the Industrial Area. He stated that the reason is that the Union Pacific Railroad is not always available to move cars for the local industry. He stated that there is a small railroad line that is willing to place an engine on the track to move cars on the railroad line. He related that part of the consideration is an environmental impact study that is currently be performed by LRAFB, adding that a formal request is needed from the City Council to either purchase or receive right-of-way from the Department of Defense. He related that the recommendation would be forwarded from the LRAFB to the Corp. of Engineers who would be the entity to deed the right-of- way/easement to the City of Jacksonville. He related that the City’s best interest can be served by keeping the line open regarding industry rail service needs. Alderman Smith moved, seconded by Alderman Lewis to Read Resolution 560. It was noted that the property for acquisition is approximately three miles of track. At this time, MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Bamburg read the heading of Resolution 560 (#5-02) Alderman Smith moved, seconded by Alderman Wilson to Approve Resolution 560. In response to a question posed by Alderman Stroud, Mayor Swaim related that it is recommended that regular emergency and periodic line maintenance be performed by the railroad as part of the lease contract. He related that the City’s goal is to provide service to local industries. At this time, MOTION CARRIED. b. PRESENTATION of the Widening of Division & Mulberry Streets 3 Mayor Swaim related that the Arkansas Highway Department had asked the City to consider other options regarding proposals involving Hwy 161. CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 4, 2002 7:00 P.M. – 7:24 P.M. City Engineer Whisker referred to an aerial photo provided, saying that the Arkansas Highway Department did not want to switch the Hwy designation to Second Street. He related that the Arkansas Highway Department requested that Second Street tie into First Street so that traffic could continue to flow through. He stated that he is recommending the widening of Division Street. He related that widening the Street would turn traffic onto Second Street and accomplish bringing the traffic from South Hwy 161 through the downtown area as well as allowing traffic to continue through First Street without having to stop at a light until they reach the traffic light at Second and First Street. Mayor Swaim stated that estimated costs include the construction of sidewalks, curb and gutter. He added that it is hoped that commercial establishments would develop along both Streets. In response to a question posed by Alderman Wilson, City Engineer Whisker related that the key issue were if the Arkansas Highway Department would switch the Hwy designation to Second Street, saying that in discussions with the Highway Department it was stated that the overpass was tall enough to accept the height and that they would leave the designation to First Street. Mayor Swaim then answered that the need to widen Division Street would accommodate traffic that would want to cross the overpass. He explained that otherwise traffic moving south to north would have to go back and circle around to get on the overpass. City Engineer Whisker diagramed that if Division Street is widened then traffic has a left hand turn onto Division then turn north on Second and right onto Main Street to cross over the railroad tracks. Alderman Wilson questioned the feasibility of making Division and Mulberry one-way streets east and west. Mayor Swaim pointed out that at some point there would be a problem for traffic traveling north on First Street to cross the overpass, saying that traffic would flow easier if the cars did not have to circle back. 2002 Overlay Program City Engineer presented the Council with a list of streets for milling and asphalting. Mayor Swaim related that $400,000 was expended two years ago regarding the Overlay Program and that $250,000 is being proposed currently. He pointed out that in some cases repair work could suffice as opposed to a 4 complete overlay of the street. He then pointed out that milling costs have risen due to a repetitive overlay of certain streets. Alderman Wilson requested an inventory of streets overlaid. CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 4, 2002 7:00 P.M. – 7:24 P.M. City Engineer Whisker stated that he would bring the list to the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting. Alderman Fletcher expressed hazard concerns for water pooling on James Street between Second Baptist Church and Harvey Street. Mayor Swaim related that over many years there have been a number of efforts to relieve the water, pointing out that the ditch was paved and a box was installed at Oakhurst to move the water faster. He asked the City Engineer to place the item on his list for further consideration. a. Request to purchase property regarding Reed’s Bridge Battlefield Alderman Howard recognized Mr. Tommy Dupree to address the Council. Mr. Tommy Dupree stated that the Reed's Bridge Preservation Society is requesting funds to purchase an additional fifteen-acres located along the north side of the Bayou Meto Creek adjacent to Wastewater property. He presented a list of property purchased since the projects inception and noted that the original park was a 7.5 acre tract purchased for $50,000 of which the City contributed $25,000. He stated that the City then contributed $20,000 for the second tract (McRaven property), adding that currently they are requesting $45,000 for the fifteen-acres known as the Lee property. He illustrated on a map the proximity of the property to the City of Jacksonville, pointing out the various properties that the Reed's Bridge Preservation Society is involved with. He pointed out the “Hard Core Battlefield Site” saying that Mr. Mark Crist from the State is proceeding to have the core site submitted for national registry. He stated that registry status would allow the Reed's Bridge Preservation Society to apply for funds from national and State sources. He related plans for the following year regarding the development of a tourist information center at the corner area of Military and Trickey Lane possibly with special State funding. He related that Military Road built in 1820 is a national treasure, saying that its main purpose was to settle the frontier. He went on to say that Belle Point at Fort Smith was built on the Arkansas River as an out post and that river traffic was the main means for transporting supplies. He related that road development followed and Military Road was considered a national road project. He stated that settlers traveled over Military Road going west to settle California, adding that the Mexican War troops also moved down Military Road to Mexico and that the Indian removal traveled Military Road, which makes it a trail of tears. He related the various tribes transported 5 down Military Road, saying that the trail of tears society is working diligently to have Military Road recognized officially and developed. He related that the essence of the project along with other activities such as the Clinton Library is to promote tourism and bring tourist dollars into City of Jacksonville. CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 4, 2002 7:00 P.M. – 7:24 P.M. He pointed out that once the property becomes available, there should not be a long delay regarding the purchase. He remarked that the Reed's Bridge Preservation Society has been fortunate regarding outside funding, mentioning one individual that contributed close to $20,000. He went on to mention State contributions, saying the Society will look increasingly each year to the State for additional funds because of the significance of Military Road regarding the Little Rock Campaign. He related that Reed’s Bridge Battlefield ties in with another historical factor, the Air Force Base. He referred to Mr. Tim Buford in the audience, saying that Mr. Buford has just written a book regarding the history of the LRAFB. He stated that the Battlefield and the Air Force Base should be a financial benefit to the City of Jacksonville as well as a matter of pride regarding the history of the area. He stated that the Society would greatly appreciate if the City could participate with a half match of funds. Alderman Stroud stated that he is a Civil War buff and can appreciate the project being undertaken by Reed's Bridge Preservation Society, but pointed out that the property is located in the flood plain and questioned its value at six thousand dollars per acre. He stated concerns regarding other areas of Jacksonville with more pressing needs regarding blighted areas. He related that North Little Rock has a program that matches funds for businesses to perform landscaping and improve facades, pointing out that Jacksonville’s downtown is loosing businesses, saying that funds might better be served in other areas. Mr. Tommy Dupree pointed out that the Battlefield area is being cleaned up. He stated that some old houses that the City would probably have had to spend money to tear down has been demolished and cleaned up by the Reed's Bridge Preservation Society. He related that there has been a maintenance plan of the area that has not existed in the past, which was not accomplished with City funds. He pointed out another project being considered for Federal funding as being the overall development of Bayou Meto Creek greenbelt area, and a trail from Dupree Park that would tie into Cloverdale Road and back to Hwy 67, which encompasses all of the Battlefield area. He related that he and a resident of Sherwood had been picking up the Bayou from a boat. Discussion ensued regarding other areas in Jacksonville that need attention. 6 Mr. Tommy Dupree agreed that other areas need attention as well, pointing out that the City has come along way over the last few years and that the focus should not be centered on just one project. He then related that not all of the Battlefield area is flood plain, saying there is highland. He related that the big factor is that Battlefield land can only be purchased where it exist. Alderman Fletcher commended the efforts of Reed's Bridge Preservation Society, noting the attractiveness to the area today rather than five years ago. He expressed regret that the City has not managed to hold onto its history sooner, he mentioned loosing the “old stagecoach house” CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 4, 2002 7:00 P.M. – 7:24 P.M. on Military Road and the train depot. He questioned what the long term plans are outside of just acquiring the land, asking about reconstruction plans for the Battlefield. Mr. Tommy Dupree stated that the long-term plan would involve a walking trail to the Battlefield featuring possibly as many as twenty cannons and panels describing the action and battle lines. He stated that it would be a tourist attraction and something that the City could take pride in. In response to a question posed by Alderman Elliott, Mr. Dupree related that the property appraised for $61,000, pointing out that the appraiser did not have the information regarding an access. He pointed out a Wastewater easement that comes off Hwy 161 to their lift station, saying that it is an important easement to maintain. Alderman Howard moved, seconded by Alderman Ray to expend $45,000 to jointly purchase the property known as the Lee property as part of the Reed's Bridge Battlefield with the property title to be held by the City of Jacksonville with funds to be drawn from the Capital Improvement Fund. In response to a question from Alderman Smith, Mr. Dupree related that Reed's Bridge Preservation Society would also need to contribute $45,000 to the total purchase of the property. In response to a question posed by Alderman Elliott, Mr. Dupree related that the appraisal price was not an option, saying that the Percy property in the area had sold for $8,000 an acre recently and was terrible property. He pointed out that with the widening of Hwy 161 and the interchange the purchase price is reasonable. Alderman Wilson commended the Society, expressing appreciation for their efforts. He added that his concern would be how much the City plans to put toward the long-term purchase of land. He expressed the need for a long-term plan by the City regarding its funding participation. In response to a question from Alderman Smith, Mr. Dupree related that to date the City has expended $45,000 regarding the purchase of $130,000 in property titled to the City. He related plans to acquire one other small 7 property that would be rented to pay for itself. Alderman Ray addressed Alderman Wilson, saying that the long-term plan is to develop the entire Battlefield area. He stated that it would be essential to the City of Jacksonville when the interchange is developed. He mentioned the purchase of the Pearson property, saying that he felt it would be commercial. He stated that with a walkway and the national and State historical societies interest in Military Road, he believes it would behoove the City to participate as much as it can. He stated that in twenty years, it will be developed and it will be an out grow for the City of Jacksonville. He encouraged the Council to look forward into the future, echoing Alderman Fletcher sentiments regarding the missed opportunity with the train and stage depot. CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 4, 2002 7:00 P.M. – 7:24 P.M. Alderman Smith expressed support for the project, adding that he agrees that there should be a long-range plan regarding the City’s financial participation. He commended the efforts of the Reed’s Bridge Preservation Society, saying that he feels it will be a real plus regarding future tourism. Mayor Swaim suggested that a volunteer committee be formed to work with the Reed's Bridge Preservation Society to present a long-range plan to the Council. Alderman Ray and Alderman Howard related that they are presently working with the Reed’s Bridge Preservation Society. In response to a question posed by Alderman Elliott, Mr. Dupree related that unlike Dupree Park, the Battlefield Park would not be a high maintenance park. He stated that it would be a natural park with trees, and open areas that would be cut for hay. He pointed out that after the park is developed with walkways and bikeways there would not be a lot of mowing and maintenance needed. He stated that it would be a natural terrain. He related the contribution of funds from the Forestry Commission regarding Vertac funds to plant trees. Alderman Fletcher question additional acres anticipated to complete the project. Mr. Dupree stated that a lot of the larger pieces of property will not be purchased but will have an easement type agreements to designate it as a battlefield, which is not to say that twenty years from now it could come available for sale. Mr. Dupree illustrated on the map, areas that the Reed's Bridge Preservation Society is interested in and noted a ½ acre piece of property that has been contracted $28,000. He stated that the property has a rent able house and that the plan is to rent the house and let the property pay for itself and then move the house. 8 Mayor Swaim called for a vote to the motion. It was clarified that the motion is to expend $45,000 for the purchase of property. Discussion ensued as to a motion to amend and form a committee to come back with a recommendation. Alderman Wilson moved seconded by Alderman Stroud to table the present motion until the next City Council meeting and allow a committee time to return with a recommendation for an overall plan. Alderman Sansing and Alderman Fletcher volunteered to work on the committee with Alderman Ray and Howard. At this time, MOTION CARRIED with Alderman Ray voting NAY. CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 4, 2002 7:00 P.M. – 7:24 P.M. RESUME AGENDA: d. ORDINANCE 1177 (#7-02) AN ORDINANCE ACCEPTING AND CONFIRMING ANNEXATION OF VARIOUS REAL PROPERTY LOCATED ON THE SOUTH SIDE OF JACKSONVILLE COMMONLY KNOWN AS THE SOUTH ANNEXATION; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES. Alderman Elliott moved, seconded by Alderman Ray that Ordinance 1177 be placed on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Aldermen Elliott, Smith, Lewis, Sansing, Ray, Wilson, Fletcher, Stroud, Twitty and Howard voted AYE. NAY (0). MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Bamburg read the heading of Ordinance 1177. Alderman Lewis moved, seconded by Alderman Smith that Ordinance 1177 be APPROVED on FIRST READING. ROLL CALL: Aldermen Elliott, Smith, Lewis, Sansing, Ray, Wilson, Fletcher, Stroud, Twitty, and Howard voted AYE. NAY (0). MOTION CARRIED. Alderman Smith moved, seconded by Alderman Lewis to suspend the rules and place Ordinance 1177 on SECOND READING. Discussion clarified that the annexation would encompass the area up to St. Luke’s Baptist Church beyond the overpass on both sides of the road and that present businesses would be grandfathered in. ROLL CALL: Aldermen Elliott, Smith, Lewis, Sansing, Ray, Wilson, Fletcher, Stroud, Twitty and Howard voted AYE. NAY (0). MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Bamburg read the heading of Ordinance 1177. Alderman Fletcher moved, seconded by Alderman Stroud to further suspend the rules and place Ordinance 1177 on THIRD AND FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Aldermen Elliott, Smith, Lewis, Sansing, Ray, Wilson, Fletcher, Stroud, Twitty, and Howard voted AYE. NAY (0). MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Bamburg read the heading of Ordinance 1177. 9 Alderman Ray moved, seconded by Alderman Stroud that Ordinance 1177 be APPROVED AND ADOPTED. ROLL CALL: Aldermen Elliott, Smith, Lewis, Sansing, Ray, Wilson, Fletcher, Stroud, Twitty and Howard voted AYE. NAY (0). MOTION CARRIED. Alderman Ray moved, seconded by Alderman Howard that the EMERGENCY CLAUSE be approved and adopted. ROLL CALL: Aldermen Elliott, Smith, Lewis, Sansing, Ray, Wilson, Fletcher, Stroud, Twitty and Howard voted AYE. NAY (0). MOTION CARRIED. th ORDINANCE APPROVED, ADOPTED and NUMBERED 1177 THIS 4 DAY OF APRIL 2002. Alderman Wilson suggested in the interest of good relations that the City contact the new residents and explain fire and police assistance protocol. He related that the City needs to verify 911 changes allowing calls to be routed to Jacksonville’s Police and Fire. He stated that to avoid jurisdictional confusion, the City should coordinate with the County regarding necessary changes. CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 4, 2002 7:00 P.M. – 7:24 P.M. Mayor Swaim related that efforts to redirect PSAP changes regarding 911 calls has already begun, and City Engineer Whisker has taken Chief Vanderhoof and Chief Ruthven to the area and shown them exactly which houses are involved. He related that the real delay comes between the local phone company and the phone company for the County regarding computer changes, however, all agencies are working together within the City and their counter parts in the County. Alderman Wilson also suggested that proper signage regarding the new City limits be incorporated immediately following effective annexation. It was noted that rerouting the mail from North Little Rock to Jacksonville may take some time. ANNOUNCEMENTS: Mayor Swaim announced that LBJ Headstart will host a proclamation and reading tomorrow at 1000 School Drive. He recognized Chief Ruthven to update the City Council regarding situations in the local schools. Chief Ruthven informed the Council that coordination efforts have been made regarding construction at the intersection of Trickey Lane and South First Street and that the Police Department will be providing assistance over the remaining two-week contract to ensure a better traffic flow. He then addressed the City Council regarding recent events captured by the media involving Jacksonville schools. He stated that since November th 11 of last year when a so-called “terrorist hit list” was found at North Pulaski High School, there have been eighteen incidents involving Jacksonville schools. He stated that eleven of those incidents are still 10 being investigated and seven have had juvenile arrest made and are scheduled for juvenile court. He related coordinated efforts between the Police Department, Pulaski County School District and school administrators regarding the seriousness of this problem. He assured the City Council that the Police Department remains in tune to juvenile problems, and that he has personally met with the Pulaski County Security Officer, Discipline Officer and with each school principal that has had an incident of this nature. He related that school administrators have offered cash rewards for information leading to the arrest and conviction of anyone involved and made school announcements after each arrest so that students are aware that people are being caught and arrested. He stated that the schools are rigidly following their own policy regarding immediate suspension and expulsion for anyone found guilty. He related that he has volunteered to personally speak at any school meetings that are being held to address this particular issue, one of th which is coming up April 9 at North Pulaski. He stated that he has also ordered expanded coverage of police patrols, saying that patrol officers have been instructed to never pass a school ground without driving onto the campus to make a visible presents unless in route to a more important call. He related that school administrators are supportive of the increased presents policy. He then related that he has also expanded the CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 4, 2002 7:00 P.M. – 7:24 P.M. number of officers in the juvenile section and lastly that he has charted a committee within the department to look at juvenile operations for all juvenile related problems within the community. He related that of the seven arrested, the last four arrests are also the last four incidents that occurred. He stated that he felt the word is getting out and the parents and children are taking it seriously that this is not something that you want to do. He stated that he is hopeful that the number of incidents will go down to a normal or manageable level. Mayor Swaim reiterated that even though none of the threats has actually caused any physical problem yet, that has not lessened the Police and Fire Department’s intensity for responding to any threat. He stated that the City is not complacent and that each incident stands on its own and is being handled very aggressively to solve those situations and that they have been able to do so very quickly in the last few incidents. In response to a question posed by Alderman Stroud, Chief Ruthven related that a two-car accident Tuesday morning on West Main was a head-on collision. He stated that the young woman who moved out of her lane was the cause of the accident and suffered a serious leg injury but no other injuries. He related that the other driver sustained minor injuries. He attributed the accident to fatigue and drinking, saying that the young lady was at fault and had been seen twice earlier after midnight of the same date by patrol officers loitering by the old Wal-Mart area and was told that she needed to go home. She was noted to have had some alcohol at some point. He then related that the accident occurred almost at the curve on West Main. 11 Alderman Wilson asked Chief Ruthven if additional reward funds for convictions would be helpful in catching the other perpetrators involved in school incidents, saying that the City Council may be receptive to matching funds with the school district. Chief Ruthven agreed, saying that North Pulaski High School is offering a $200.00 reward for information leading to arrest and conviction. Mayor Swaim stated that the events of 9-11 have brought about many changes in our Country and that it has brought out the best and worst in people. He stated that Jacksonville is not the only city that is having this type of problem, that unfortunately it is happening in many places. Alderman Fletcher express concern for student expulsion, advocating that students should be sent to a tougher school instead of spending their expulsion time at the Mall. He also stated that some juveniles should be handled by adults in the courts. Chief Ruthven related school policy as being established by the School system and that it is hope that juvenile judges understand the serious nature of this type of activity. CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 4, 2002 7:00 P.M. – 7:24 P.M. Discussion ensued as to a 30” broken water line in North Little Rock as being the reason many residents have experienced discolored water from a possible back feed. Justice of the Peace Mr. Dennis Sobba addressed the City Council, explaining that he is working with Sheriff’s Department regarding students being expelled from school would be on house arrest and not be able to leave the house from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. unless accompanied by an adult or unless the student has a job. He explained problems in the County with students and vandalism during school hours. He stated that the Sheriff is looking at enforcement issues currently. Alderman Ray stated that enforcement is working pretty well in the eastern part of the County, because the Officers in the County know the families that are having problems. ADJOURNMENT: Mayor Swaim without objection adjourned the meeting at approximately 8:10 p.m. Respectfully, 12 ________________________ _________________________ Susan L. Davitt MAYOR TOMMY SWAIM City Clerk-Treasurer 13