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.
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 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 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 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.
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 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