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02 APR 18.doc CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 18, 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 18, 2002 at the regular meeting place of the Council. Alderman Smith 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 nine (9), ABSENT (1). Others present for the meeting were: City Attorney Robert E. Bamburg, Deputy Clerk Teresa Carter, Director of Administration Murice Green, Finance Director Paul Mushrush, City Engineer Jay Whisker, Public Works Director Jimmy Oakley, Purchasing Agent C.J. Brown, CDBG Director Theresa Watson, Police Chief Ruthven, Fire Chief Vanderhoof, Parks and Recreation Director George Biggs, Parks Administrator Patty Walker, Mrs. Judy Swaim, Mrs. Helen Stroud, Chamber of Commerce Director Bonita Rownd, Mr. Tommy Dupree, Mr. Jack Danielson, MSgt Martin, Lt. Singleton, and interested citizens and members of the press. PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Swaim presented the minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of April 4, 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 21 March 2002 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED. DEVIATION IN AGENDA: Presentation by Little Rock Air Force Base Mayor Swaim related that the Little Rock Air Force Base hosted a ground breaking ceremony for the C-130 J model simulator, pointing out that a number of years were spent to ensure that the simulator was not sent to another base. He introduced Lt. Singleton and MSgt. Martin from the Little Rock Air Force Base for a presentation. He stated that the working relationship with the Air base is excellent and that the City appreciates the interaction with the Community. th MSgt Martin introduced himself and Lt. Singleton from the 314 Airlift Public Affairs. He delivered a presentation entitled “Task Force Rock.” He reviewed the history of the base, the present, and the future of “Task Force Rock.” He highlighted the base’s mission with C-130’s; pointing out that LRAFB sustains C-130 combat power for America. He stated that LRAFB is based on a foundation of Leadership, Teamwork, and Growth. He stated that the LRAFB is an important weapon in America’s arsenal. He reviewed that a concerted community fundraising effort in the 1950’s brought the LRAFB to Jacksonville. He stated that the Pulaski County 1 Citizens Council had collected approximately $1,000,000 and began CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 18, 2002 7:00 P.M. – 8:10 P.M. purchasing property from more than 150 landowners to be donated to the Air Force. He stated that the rich history of the base has included assignment to Strategic Air Command, Tactical Air Command, Military Air Lift Command, Air Mobility Command, Air Combat Command and now Air Education and Training Command. He related that LRAFB is a total force team that leads in training the Nation’s C-130 aircrews to deliver C-130 combat power around the world. He stated that annually the base and individuals are recognized for outstanding contributions to the mission. He stated that the base enjoys its success as the Air Force’s largest single runway operation. He additional pointed out the Air Base’s commitment to environmental stewardship is solid and has lead the base to establish a mutually beneficial relationship with the State of Arkansas, that was the first of its kind in the Department of Defense. He stated that the Little Rock Air Force Base is the first to sign a contract to privatize 100% of base housing. He related that the LRAFB is a true total force team that includes active duty members, guard and reserve units, C-130 students, civilian works and family members for a total population of 11,400, adding that everyone contributes to the mission. He related that the two major air force commands, an active air lift command and an air national guard annually train more than 2,000 air crew members for C-130 positions and more than 900 members as C-130 maintainers. He related that LRAFB has two operation C-130 flying combat group squadrons ready to respond to contingencies around the world. He pointed out that LRAFB is home to the only Air Force Reserve unit in th Arkansas, the 96 aerial port squadron, adding that the City of Jacksonville has been an important part of the team for half of a century. He stated that since the base was founded it has enjoyed a superb relationship with the Community, which makes it one of the best base/community relationships in the Department of Defense. He then related that the Air Force Times honored the base with their first community spirit award that celebrates community support. He reviewed the highlights from the base’s participation regarding hurricane Barry last summer, citing it as a perfect example of the spirit of teamwork. He stated that in 2001, more than 1,500 base members volunteered approximately 73,300 hours on and off the base. He stated that the base was awarded an outstanding volunteerism certificated from the Arkansas governor. He went on to list many of the contributions to community spirit. He stated that the Air Base raised the level of teamwork by merging the supply and transportation squadrons into a logistics readiness squadron, which improves the logistics chain that provides war fighters and combat power to the battlefield. He related efforts to work with local law enforcement and noted appreciation to retirees monthly and annual. He stated that the largest team event this year will be the Air stnd Show June 1 and 2, adding that the Navy Blue Angles will be the star performers. He stated that growth is the foundation for the future, pointing out that professional growth comes from a continuing investment in its members named “Operation Hercules.” He stated that the operation 2 synergies approximately sixteen programs that involve heritage, retention, recruiting, professional military education, and civilian education. He stated that LRAFB is the only base in Air Education and Training Command with an in-resident Airmen Leadership School, adding that additional education opportunities are available such as sponsoring CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 18, 2002 7:00 P.M. – 8:10 P.M. small groups of military members to travel to significant military sites interest. He related trips such as the Battlefield at Gettysburg and to the Alamo Battlefield for basic military training in San Antonio Texas. He stated that LRAFB will remain the C-130 center of excellence with the arrival of the C-130 J and the C-130 X in the coming decade. He stated that the Air Force is looking ahead and have envisioned a central campus concept for the LRAFB, that better positions living, working and family to enhance the quality of life. He stated that their commitment to the future is evident in the new construction of the control tower, flying squadron facilities and the new fitness center currently under construction. He stated that the future of LRAFB as the home of the C- 130 is solid and that “Task Force Rock” remains America’s C-130 center of excellence. Mayor Swaim thanked MSgt. Martin and Lt. Singleton for the presentation and then related that Murice Green attends weekly briefings at LRAFB bring information from the community to the base. It was pointed out that the economic impact regarding LRAFB is $402 million dollars. Discussion ensued and several City Council members expressed support for the Little Rock Air Force Base and its mission and relationship to the community. th An Economic Impact Analysis for the fiscal year 2001 prepared by the 314 Comptroller Squadron Financial Analysis Branch was provided to the City Council and a copy is on file in the Office of the City Clerk. CONSENT AGENDA: REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/POLICE DEPARTMENT Alderman Elliott moved, seconded by Alderman Wilson that the Regular Monthly Report for March from the Jacksonville Police Department be APPROVED. Said report reflects; Total Value of Reported Stolen Property $77,561.00, Total Value of Recovered Stolen Property $49,449.00 and Total Report Sales $258.00. Chief Ruthven explained the new format of the regular monthly report, pointing out that that the new report provides comparison data monthly, annually and the percentage difference. He pointed out that the report provides new categories for adult arrests and juvenile arrest. In response to a question posed by Alderman Wilson, Mayor Swaim related that annually the FBI publishes a community data comparison. 3 Chief Ruthven stated that the data is also reported to Arkansas Crime Information Center, which is ultimately sent to the National Crime Information Center and that the FBI report is generated from that data being held by the National Crime Information Center. CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 18, 2002 7:00 P.M. – 8:10 P.M. REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/FIRE DEPARTMENT Alderman Elliott moved, seconded by Alderman Wilson to approve the Regular Monthly Report for March from the Jacksonville Fire Department, which reflects a fire loss of $142,315.00, and a Savings Total of $209,000.00. ROLL CALL: Aldermen Elliott, Smith, Sansing, Ray, Wilson, Fletcher, Stroud, Twitty and Howard voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED. WATER DEPARTMENT: WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT: FIRE DEPARTMENT: POLICE DEPARTMENT: a. Request to purchase Records Management System Computing Platform Mayor Swaim related that the request is a mandated change and invited Finance Director Mushrush or Chief Ruthven to address the Council. Chief Ruthven related that the records management system is a computing server, saying that it is the hardware including the installation components and a software package. He stated that the expenditure request is for $8,500.00. He related that the actual costs of the platform is $24,804.78, adding that $16,304.78 will be expended from a remaining FY2000 Block Grant for the equipment purchase. He then stated that in addition $50,000 will be expended from the FY2001 Block Grant to purchase the software that will be used by the system. He related that the system would provide one-time data entry and multi-functional use. He related that the system would allow for a computer dispatching with the 911 Communications Center. Alderman Smith moved, seconded by Alderman Stroud to approve the expenditure of $8,500.00 to complete funds needed to purchase a records management system for the Police Department and the 911 Communication Center. In response to a question posed by Mayor Swaim, Mr. Mushrush related that the majority of equipment had been purchased under State contracts bid earlier. He related that there are only two smaller items less than $1,000.00 that is not under the State Contract. It was noted that funds would be drawn from the Capital Equipment Fund, Mr. Mushrush noted that the $16,304.78 has been reserved for that purpose. 4 At this time, MOTION CARRIED. b. Request to purchase Canine and Training for the Canine Handler Chief Ruthven related that Sgt. Mayberry is having to retire his canine “Eiko”, because of physical limitations that are linked to the age of the canine. He pointed out that the low bid came from a local bidder, Von CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 18, 2002 7:00 P.M. – 8:10 P.M. Klein Stein from North Little Rock at $7,450.00, which includes handler training and a guarantee. He stated that the other two bids were considerably higher and neither were local. He stated that the highest bid included expenses and logging. He related that he is comfortable with the local bid, pointing out that in the past canines were purchased from Canine Unlimited from Oklahoma City at an average of $8,800 per canine. In response to a question from Alderman Sansing, Chief Ruthven related that Sgt. Mayberry has inspected the canines from the low bidder and is comfortable with recommending Von Klein Stein. Mayor Swaim related that he had requested a canine with bomb search training, but added that it was not possible in the short period of time. He stated that there is a high demand for bomb dogs at the present time and that the Chief has recommended that when the next canine is retired the City consider a canine trained in bomb search. Chief Ruthven related that he is looking specifically at next year for the purchase of a bomb dog, even possibly as an additional dual purpose dog for bomb and/or drug or patrol. He stated that currently the Police Department turns to the Air Force Base or Sherwood for assistance with that type of resource. He stated that he would like to have the canine specifically for proactive reasons not reactive, saying that currently this type of resource is used only for reactive situations. He stated that if the City had a bomb dog for proactive situations, the Police Department could address some of the concerns upfront from a hometown defense perspective. In response to a question posed by Alderman Wilson, Chief Ruthven related the canine protective gear had not been considered, adding that they are considering purchasing booties to protect the dog’s feet. Mayor Swaim related that the funds are budgeted from recovered drug monies set aside in a special fund. Alderman Smith moved, seconded by Alderman Stroud to approve the low bid from Von Klein Stein of North Little Rock in the amount of $7,450.00 for a canine purchase and training for the canine handler. MOTION CARRIED. In response to a question regarding Sgt. Mayberry’s request that Eiko be retired to his care, Mayor Swaim related that it could be accomplished 5 administratively. c. Request to Accept Bid for a new roof for the Police Department. Mayor Swaim related that roof repair has been budgeted, pointing out that presently the City has four buildings that have flat roofs that are either needing repair or replacement. City Engineer Whisker related that two bids were received and that low bid was submitted by W.C. Looper. He stated that Looper is qualified and has been in the business for over 30 years with excellent references. CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 18, 2002 7:00 P.M. – 8:10 P.M. Mayor Swaim related that the budget would have to be amended before year’s end, saying that the funds would be drawn from the Capital Projects fund. He stated that originally $10,000 had been set aside for roof repairs, adding that the roof was not repairable. He related that the roof would be replaced with a new flat roof system that uses rubber sheeting with sealed joints. Discussion ensued as to roof repair needed at the old City Hall building, and Mayor Swaim related that the seams are leaking. He stated that resealing the seams has been bid as opposed to replacing the entire roof. City Engineer Whisker related that the new roofing is a better system and is more reflective. In response to a question from Alderman Stroud, Mayor Swaim related that a foam system was installed at the Community Center and the Library, explaining that while the Community Center has done well the Library has not. He stated that part of the problem at the Library is due to the heating and cooling unit located on the roof and the need for repairs to the unit has compromised the roofing system. He stated that the roofing system is poorly designed because of the placement of the heating and cooling unit, adding that he has investigated methods to provide a metal pitched roof at reasonable costs. City Engineer Whisker related that a cost analysis is being conducted for a pitched roof. In response to a question from Alderman Wilson, Mayor Swaim related that the project would encompass the Police and Courts building but not the new CID area, which was constructed with a metal pitched roof. Alderman Wilson moved, seconded by Alderman Stroud to approve the low bid from W.C. Looper Roofing in the amount of $32,500.00 to replace the roofing system at the Police Department building with funds to be drawn from the Capital Projects Fund. MOTION CARRIED. SANITATION DEPARTMENT: Request to Accept Bid for a Wheel Loader Public Works Director Mr. Jimmy Oakley related that the recommended bid is from Scott Construction for $82,235.00 for a front-end loader to be 6 used by the Sanitation Department to push yard waste to the tub grinder. He related that Scott Construction is the second lowest bid, and the only bid that met specifications. Alderman Stroud moved, seconded by Alderman Howard to approve the second lowest bid from Scott Construction in the amount of $82,235.00 and reject the low bid for lack of meeting specifications. MOTION CARRIED. Mayor Swaim noted that the funds would be drawn from the Sanitation Fund. STREET DEPARTMENT: PLANNING COMMISSION: CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 18, 2002 7:00 P.M. – 8:10 P.M. GENERAL: Report from the Reed’s Bridge Committee Mayor Swaim related that the committee was appointed at the previous City Council meeting to bring a recommendation before the City Council regarding City involvement of the Reed’s Bridge Civil War Foundation Historical project. Alderman Sansing addressed the item, saying that he had been a descending voice on the committee. He related that after committee discussion regarding future plans and the original appraisal of $61,000, which was found to be inaccurate given easement misinformation, his recommendation is to support the request. He then stated that his recommendation is for one-half of the appraisal value, adding that the other members supported the request for $45,000. He addressed the request from the City Council regarding the Society’s future plans, saying that the Society had hoped to receive a City investment of $15,000 per year for the next five years with the flexibility of carrying funds from year into the next. He stated that support of this request would require budgetary consideration, adding that if funds are available he could support the request. He stated that if the Lee Property acquisition is completed the Society will have accumulated 30-acres for approximately $310,000 of which the City will have contributed $90,000 and are looking at an additional 20-acres in the future. Alderman Howard stated his support of the request, saying that the City already has an investment in the project, which he feels should be followed through. He related that the request for $15,000 over the next five years is a small percentage of what the City will gain from its investment. He addressed increasing land values in the area, and stated that the area is looking considerably better. He related increased interest from tour groups regarding the actual battlefield area, saying that once the property is listed on the National Registry it will help promote Jacksonville tourism. It was clarified that the request before City Council is to invest $45,000 in the purchase of the Lee Property and commit to $15,000 annually to help fund the project. 7 Alderman Stroud stated that he felt the two requests should be addressed separately, saying that he supports the $45,000 land investment. He then added that even with his vote of support he still feels the money could better be expended in other areas. He explained his hesitancy regarding support of the five year plan, reminding the Council of the enormous effort being made to remove sales tax from the sale of food. He stated that if food sales tax is repealed the City of Jacksonville is going to loose between 1.5 and 2 million dollars annually. He related that it would leave the City in the position to either cutting services to its citizens or raising taxes. Mayor Swaim stated that legally the City Council could not obligate a future City Council regarding future expenditure of funds, adding that the Council could adopt the five year plan in theory. CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 18, 2002 7:00 P.M. – 8:10 P.M. Discussion ensued regarding the expected fund expenditure in ratio to the accumulated acreage and appraisal value. It was clarified that the additional $75,000 at the rate of $15,000 per year for the next five years would help fund the purchase of an additional 20-acres as it becomes available. Mayor Swaim clarified with City Attorney Bamburg that the City Council can adopted the five year plan but could not fund the five year plan except on a year to year basis. It was noted that the new appraisal for the Lee Property is approximately $90,000. Alderman Stroud moved, seconded by Alderman Smith to approve a $45,000 investment for the year 2002 and support the five-year plan without automatic obligation of funding. Mayor Swaim related that the expenditure would have to be drawn from the Capital Improvement Fund. Alderman Fletcher stated that he would like to see the City widen its vision regarding the rich historical treasures of the City, mentioning the Ordinance plant of the 40’s, and the Air Base. He related that he would like to see the City create a historical commission coupled with the Reed’s Bridge Society and previous workers of the Ordinance plant to help the City take advantage of its historical resources. He related that the commission could fine tune needs for different historical possibilities, suggesting a reproduction of the various historical resources that Jacksonville has to offer. Alderman Wilson concurred with Alderman Fletcher, but stated reservations about using tax dollars to accomplish that. He praised the work being performed by citizens willing to give of their time to preserve history, but stated that he has concerns for many other needs in the community. 8 He cited items of necessity such as roof repairs, maintenance for the Community Center as priority concerns for the City. Alderman Fletcher agreed that the Commission should be handled on a volunteer basis. Alderman Ray noted that the Reed’s Bridge Preservation Society is operated strictly through volunteerism, saying that the Society has requested only a small portion of funds from the City. At this time, MOTION CARRIED. APPOINTMENTS: WATEWATER UTILITY COMMISSION Alderman Elliott moved, seconded by Alderman Smith to approve the reappointment of Mrs. Kathe Parson to the Jacksonville Wastewater Utility Commission for a term to expire 4/20/2007. MOTION CARRIED. CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 18, 2002 7:00 P.M. – 8:10 P.M. ANNOUNCEMENTS: th Mayor Swaim announced a dedication ceremony at 11:15 a.m., May 4 at Dupree Park ballfield #5 in honor of Mr. Paul Shireman. He related that Mr. Shireman was the first American Legion Coach. He then announced that City Attorney Bamburg has secured an order of immediate possession of lands regarding the property between Hwy 161 and School Drive. Mayor Swaim acknowledged the birthday of City Engineer Whisker, wishing him a happy birthday. ADJOURNMENT: Mayor Swaim without objection adjourned the meeting at approximately 8:10 p.m. Respectfully, ________________________ _________________________ Susan L. Davitt MAYOR TOMMY SWAIM City Clerk-Treasurer 9