12 MAY 17.docCITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
MAY 17, 2012
7:00 P.M. – 7:25 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 May 17, 2012 at the regular meeting place of the City Council. Alderman Smith delivered the invocation and Mayor Fletcher led a standing audience
in the “Pledge of Allegiance” to the flag.
ROLL CALL: Aldermen: Elliott, Smith, McCleary, Ray, Rinker, Traylor, Stroud, and Howard answered roll call. Mayor Fletcher also answered
ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. Alderman Robinson arrived at approximately 7:02 p.m. Alderman Sansing arrived at approximately 7:09 p.m. PRESENT TEN (10), ABSENT (0).
Others present
for the meeting were: Director of Administration Jim Durham, Finance Director Cheryl Erkel, IT Director Barbara McDaniel, Fire Chief John Vanderhoof, Police Chief Gary Sipes, Parks and
Recreation Director Kristen Kennon, CDBG Director Theresa Watson, 911 Communications Director Tabby Hughes, Animal Control Manager Hedy Wuelling, Street Superintendant Hal Toney, Water
Commission Chairman Jim Peacock, Jim Peacock, Jr., Planning Commissioner Jim Moore, Pastor Ricky Allen, Parks and Recreation Commissioner Mary Twitty, Darlene Durham, Tammy Bourdo, Marie
Fletcher, interested citizens, and members of the press.
PRESENTATION OF MINUTES:
Mayor Fletcher presented the minutes of the regular City Council meeting of May 3, 2012 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 Howard that the minutes of
the regular City Council meeting of 19 April 2012 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED.
CONSENT AGENDA: REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/POLICE DEPARTMENT
Alderman Ray moved, seconded by Alderman McCleary
to approve the Regular Monthly Report for April 2012 annual crime statistical comparisons.
Code Enforcement for April 2012
Assigned Calls 95
Self Initiated Calls 511
Follow
up meetings/court 268 Basketball Goals 17
Meetings/Court 30 Structures Inspected 2
Citations/Warnings 0 Rental Properties Inspected 0
Issued Notice/letters 9 Properties
Red Tagged 1
Vehicles Tagged 17 Search Warrants Served 2
Vehicles Towed 1 Structures Rehabbed 0
Lots posted 169 Structures Condemned 0
Signs removed 187
Houses Demolished by City 0
Trash cans tagged 55 Houses Demolished by Owner 18
Parking Violations 70 Grass letters 148
Grass mowed 39
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
May 17, 2012
7:00 P.M. – 7:25 P.M.
REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/FIRE DEPARTMENT
Alderman Ray moved, seconded by Alderman McCleary to approve
the regular monthly report for April 2012 from the Jacksonville Fire Department, reflecting a fire loss of $104,000 and a savings total of $46,000.
REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/ANIMAL CONTROL
Alderman Ray moved, seconded by Alderman McCleary to approve the regular monthly Animal Control report for April 2012. Said reports reflect:
ADOPTION/FINES: $2,210.00
CONTRIBUTIONS:
$ 25.00
TOTAL: $2,235.00
REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Alderman Ray moved, seconded by Alderman McCleary to approve the regular monthly report for April 2012.
PERMITS/LIC
ENSE ISSUED INSPECTIONS PREFORMED
Building Permits 20 Building Inspections 30
Business Licenses 18 Electrical 25
Plumbing
24 HVACR 32
ROLL CALL: Aldermen: Elliott, Smith, McCleary, Ray, Rinker, Traylor, Stroud, Robinson, and Howard voted AYE. MOTION CARRIED.
DEVIATION IN AGENDA:
Water
Commission Chairman Jim Peacock introduced new Water Department General Manager Jake Short. He noted that Mr. Short has been with the Water Department for approximately five years.
He added that Mr. Short’s formal education was at the University of Central Arkansas.
The City Council welcomed Mr. Short.
RESUME AGENDA:
WATER DEPARTMENT:
WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT:
FIRE DEPARTMENT:
POLICE DEPARTMENT: Application for JAG Grant
Chief Sipes noted that as a formality the application is brought before the City Council, explaining that the grant is
for $22,493.00 that will be used to purchase nine 870 police shotguns and twelve additional tasers. He pointed out that the tasers have been successful in reducing the number of worker’s
compensation claims.
Alderman Smith moved, seconded by Alderman Ray to approve the application for the JAG Grant. MOTION CARRIED.
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
May 17, 2012
7:00 P.M. – 7:25 P.M.
STREET DEPARTMENT: Request to accept bid for Boat Ramps at Dupree Park & West Main Street Bridge
Street
Superintendant Hal Toney related that the recommended bid is from Harris Construction in the amount of $18,499.00. He then responded that Harris has performed satisfactory work for
the City previously. He explained that they were contracted to construct some areas of sidewalk as well as various concrete ditches. He then stated that grant monies from Arkansas Game
and Fish will be utilized for this project.
Alderman Elliott moved, seconded by Alderman Ray to accept the bid from the low bidder of Harris Construction in the amount of $18,499.00.
MOTION CARRIED.
SANITATION DEPARTMENT: ORDINANCE 1446 (#8-2012)
AN ORDINANCE WAIVING COMPETITIVE BIDDING BY THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS, FOR THE PURCHASE/TRADE FOR A GARBAGE
TRUCK FOR THE SANITATION DEPARTMENT; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Sanitation Supervisor Randy Watkins related that the Sanitation Department has a need for a backup automated garbage truck,
noting the circumstance if a fleet vehicle is taken out of operation for repairs. He explained that Public Works Director Jim Oakley was able to locate a fully reconditioned 2003 Peterbilt
that is in excellent condition. He then explained that previously the City had purchased a surplus hybrid electric truck with the ideal of being used at some of the dumpster locations,
adding that the plan did not work out. He went on to explain that they were unable to find a local dealer that was willing to service the truck. He related that the dealer with the
reconditioned Peterbilt has agreed to accept the hybrid truck as payment in full as well as covering the delivery charges. He stated that it would be “no money out of pocket” for the
City. He added that the Peterbilt truck is a cab-over model with a much tighter turning radius, which is much better for the culdesac areas. He noted that the there has been somewhat
of a struggle with the new trucks regarding the culdesac turning radius.
Alderman Ray moved, seconded by Alderman McCleary that Ordinance 1446 be placed on FIRST READING.
Director
of Administration Jim Durham related that the hybrid was a surplus truck that the City purchased for $8,500.00 and it has only run once. He then explained that to replace the motor
alone is almost $30,000.00. He stated that while the purchase was a great investment, cities are prohibited from purchasing federal surplus for resale. He added that Director Oakley
obtained permission to let the vehicle be traded for salvage.
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
May 17, 2012
7:00 P.M. – 7:25 P.M.
ROLL CALL: Aldermen Elliott, Smith, McCleary, Ray, Rinker, Traylor, Stroud, Robinson, and Howard
voted AYE. NAY (0). Alderman Sansing abstained. MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Bamburg read the heading of Ordinance 1446.
Alderman Stroud moved, seconded by Alderman Ray
to APPROVE Ordinance 1446 on FIRST READING and to suspend the rules and place Ordinance 1446 on SECOND READING. ROLL CALL: Aldermen Elliott, Smith, McCleary, Sansing, Ray, Rinker, Traylor,
Stroud, Robinson, and Howard voted AYE. NAY (0). MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Bamburg read the heading of Ordinance 1446.
Alderman Stroud moved, seconded by Alderman
McCleary to APPROVE Ordinance 1446 on SECOND READING and to further suspend the rules and place Ordinance 1446 on THIRD and FINAL READING. ROLL CALL: Aldermen Elliott, Smith, McCleary,
Sansing, Ray, Rinker, Traylor, Stroud, Robinson, and Howard voted AYE. NAY (0). MOTION CARRIED. Whereupon City Attorney Bamburg read the heading of Ordinance 1446.
Alderman Ray moved,
seconded by Alderman Stroud that Ordinance 1446 be APPROVED AND ADOPTED. ROLL CALL: Aldermen Elliott, Smith, McCleary, Sansing, Ray, Rinker, Traylor, Stroud, Robinson, and Howard voted
AYE. NAY (0). MOTION CARRIED.
ORDINANCE APPROVED, ADOPTED, AND NUMBERED 1446 THIS 17th DAY OF MAY 2012.
PARKS & RECREATION:
PLANNING COMMISSION:
GENERAL: RESOLUTION 678 (#4-2012)
A
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR AND CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS, TO EXECUTE ALL APPROPRIATE DOCUMENTS FOR THE TRANSFER OF CERTAIN REAL PROPERTY; AND, FOR OTHER
PURPOSES.
City Attorney Bamburg explained that 125 Roosevelt Circle was a condemned property that was transferred to the City following a court process, adding that part of the difficulty
was that the house was in need of being demolished. He explained that once the City took care of the asbestos removal, the members of Victory Praise & Worship Church took care of the
remaining demolition at no cost to the City. He related that the property backs up to the Church, which needs additional parking, adding that the Church is a good community neighbor
in the Sunnyside Addition. He stated that this is a benefit for the Church as well as the City, noting that the maintenance will not be an encumbrance to the City.
Mayor Fletcher stated
that Pastor Baker and the members of Victory Praise fed hundreds of children through the Boys & Girls Club as well as Willow Bend. He added that the Church conducts a National Night
Out hosted with
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
May 17, 2012
7:00 P.M. – 7:25 P.M.
the Police Department. He related that Victory Praise is very active in the community and anything
to help them, helps the City. He stated that this is a win/win for all of us.
Alderman Elliott moved, seconded by Alderman Smith to read Resolution 678 (#4-2012). MOTION CARRIED.
Whereupon City Attorney Bamburg read the heading of Resolution 678 (#4-2012).
Alderman Stroud moved, seconded by Alderman McCleary to approve Resolution 678 (#4-2012) in its entirety.
MOTION CARRIED.
APPOINTMENT(S): PARK & RECREATION COMMISSION
Alderman Howard moved, seconded by Alderman Smith to approve the reappointment of Jane Tallent and Raymond Hunter for
terms to expire 5/9/2017.
PLANNING COMMISSION
Alderman Ray moved, seconded by Alderman McCleary to approve the appointment of Jon Johnson to fill the unexpired term of Chad Young term
to expire 1/1/2013.
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
Alderman Howard moved, seconded by Alderman Ray to approve the appointment of James Peacock, Jr. to fill the unexpired term of Jon Johnson filling
the unexpired term of Joe Cummings, III to expire 2/5/2013.
ANNOUNCEMENT(S): The Jacksonville Boys & Girls Club Annual Banquet is May 23, 2012 6:30 p.m. at the Jacksonville Community
Center. Guest Speaker will be Gus Malzahn. Tickets are $50.00. Mayor Fletcher noted that this event is the major fund raiser for the Boys & Girls Club. He stated that the Boys & Girls
Club was placed under Parks & Recreation two years ago, adding that it is a great asset to our community. He mentioned that the event will also feature a silent auction.
Chief Vanderhoof
related that the ISO (Insurance Service Office) is a Department that grades all fire departments across the Country. He explained that Jacksonville was graded in August 2011. He related
that in 1998 the City of Jacksonville was graded as a Class III and in 2012 the City is now an 85.29, which is a solid Class II. He pointed out that Class II is 80 to 89.99, so the
City is 4.71 under a Class I. He stated that the City has made outstanding achievements in obtaining a Class II rating. He noted that nationwide there are 592 Class II fire departments
and in Arkansas there is a total of 13 Class II’s.
In response to a comment from Mayor Fletcher, Chief John Vanderhoof related that this rating will take effect June 1st, adding that
he has notified the insurance companies and this will automatically be in their databases. He related that the new Class II rating will save on insurance for residential and commercial
owners.
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
May 17, 2012
7:00 P.M. – 7:25 P.M.
He then answered Alderman Smith that the rating review for a Class III is every ten years and since
the reviews fell behind it was fourteen years before the City of Jacksonville was reviewed. He continued saying that for a Class II it will be between two to three years as soon as
they can get to it. He related that the Department is analyzing how to improve and maintain towards achieving a Class I rating in the future. He added that he is looking forward to
working with the new Water Department General Superintendant Mr. Short, noting that the Water Department is a key factor involved in improving the Class rating. He then added that Dispatch
was rated Class I scoring 10 points out of 10. He then answered that there are 61 Class I fire departments throughout the United States and 2 Class I’s in Arkansas.
Mayor Fletcher
noted that a higher Class rating for commercial and industrial is a strong economic recruiting point for the City.
Chief John Vanderhoof related that the fire plugs were painted two
years ago and although they used an oil base enamel, the plugs are turning a maroon color. He explained that the hydrants are serviced twice annually, noting that a repainting program
will have to be instituted when they locate a paint that will be fade resistant.
HOT SPRINGS MUNICIPAL LEAGUE MEETINGS
Mayor Fletcher announced that the second City Council meeting
in June is in conflict with the Arkansas Municipal League meetings held in Hot Springs. He related that if the City Council meeting is delayed by a week then the July 5th meeting could
be cancelled unless items of business develop that would require a meeting.
Alderman Howard moved, seconded by Alderman McCleary to change the regularly scheduled City Council meeting
of 6/21/2012 to 6/28/2012 and to cancel the regularly scheduled City Council meeting of 7/05/2012. MOTION CARRIED.
Alderman Howard announced that Mr. Ron Newport, of Keep Jacksonville
Beautiful is in ICU at Springhill. He asked that everyone remember Ron in their prayers.
Mayor Fletcher noted that the eagle statue given to the City, which is currently in the foyer
of City Hall, was obtained through Mr. Newport’s efforts. He stated that a location for the statue will be explored, adding that the City is very appreciative to Ron Newport for his
contributions to Keep Jacksonville Beautiful.
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
May 17, 2012
7:00 P.M. – 7:25 P.M.
ADJOURNMENT: Without objection, Mayor Fletcher adjourned the meeting at approximately 7:25 p.m.
MOTION CARRIED.
Respectfully,
________________________ _________________________
Susan L. Davitt MAYOR GARY FLETCHER
City Clerk-Treasurer