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00 AUG 03.docCITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 3, 2000 7:00 P.M. – 7:45 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 August 3, 2000 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, Gentry, Ray, Wilson, Fletcher, and Howard answered ROLL CALL. Mayor Swaim also answered ROLL CALL declaring a quorum. Alderman Lewis arrived at approximately 7:03 p.m. PRESENT seven (7), ABSENT (3). Others present for the meeting were: City Attorney Robert E. Bamburg, Deputy City Clerk Melanie Green, Director of Administration Murice Green, Human Resource Director Dennis Foor, City Engineer Jay Whisker, CDBG Director Frank Rowland, Parks and Recreation Director George Biggs, Fire Chief Vanderhoof, Fire Trainer Kyle Rhone and Susan Rhone, Fire Battalion Commander Bill Plunk, Police Representative Ken Bouillon, Mrs. Edith Smith, Mrs. Lindy Lewis, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Stroud, Deputy of Public Works Jimmy Oakley, Mr. Terry Sansing, Mrs. Addie Gibson, Jacksonville Patriot Reporter Peggy Koury, Leader Reporter Rob Cox, and interested citizens. PRESENTATION OF MINUTES: Mayor Swaim presented the minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of July 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 Ray that the minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of 6 July 2000 be APPROVED. MOTION CARRIED. CONSENT AGENDA: REGULAR MONTHLY REPORT/ANIMAL CONTROL Alderman Elliott moved, seconded by Alderman Smith to APPROVE the monthly Animal Control Report for July 2000. Report reflects the following: REVENUES……………………………………………$ 479.00 CONTRIBUTIONS………………………………$ 50.00 ADOPTIONS/FINES…………………………$ 429.00 TOTAL……………………………………………………$ 479.00 CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 3, 2000 7:00 P.M. – 7:45 P.M. ROLL CALL: Aldermen: Elliott, Smith, Gentry, Ray, Wilson, Fletcher, and Howard voted AYE. (0) voted NAY. MOTION CARRIED. FIRE DEPARTMENT: a. Station 2 Expansion and Renovation Project Mayor Swaim related the dire need for expansion of the facility and complimented the job. He related that part of the expansion project was contracted to Versatile Incorporated, adding that firemen are doing part of the renovation themselves. He stated that Chief Vanderhoof has requested $45,000.00 but is asking the Council to appropriate $50,000.00 from Capital Improvement to cover additional cost regarding the installation of brick. He related that with the help from the firemen cost have been greatly reduced. Alderman Elliott moved, seconded by Alderman Smith to approve $50,000.00 for the Station 2 Expansion project from the Capital Outlay fund. In response to a question from Alderman Wilson, Chief Vanderhoof related that the building was completed in 1968 and has approximately 900 sq. feet. He stated that originally it housed two people, adding that expanding the facility will provide more living space including sleeping areas and classrooms. Mayor Swaim noted that the kitchen area will also be expanded to accommodate more than two individuals, he also stated that the expansion would provide a storage area as well as space for the living area. It was noted that the expansion is to the west of the facility. At this time, MOTION CARRIED. b. Police and Fire Training Facility Mayor Swaim related an opportunity to expand the Police and Fire training facility, pointing out that a proper training facility is included as part of the consideration toward the City’s fire rating. Fire Department Training Officer Kyle Rhone offered an LCD projection presentation featuring City areas for consideration in creating a multi-use facility for the various City-wide Departments. He showed a photograph of the two-story facility located on Redmond Road and said that it has definite value in the overall goal of a multi-use facility. CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 3, 2000 7:00 P.M. – 7:45 P.M. He stated that the goal would be to build a five-story drill tower with a burn building west of the current facility where the “old sewage treatment plant” was located. He related that there would be EPA considerations, but added that he believes it can be accomplished and would be a good utilization for the land. He then said that if the City could acquire the land located directly east of the facility, it would provide a good area for an emergency vehicle operations course and a 300-seat classroom. He related that the classroom could be utilized by all City departments. He pointed out that learning comes best through actual experience, and that all standards trained for by the Fire Department require actual skills. He related the need for the Fire Department and Water or Police Department to be able to train together because safety and operational effectiveness are directly related to quality training. He pointed out that some of the advantages of a joint multi-facility, mentioning the City Safety Committee. He identified basic training needs that are significant to all City Departments such as driving certification, confined space entry, respiratory and SCBA training. He concluded in saying that training together provides for better coordination during emergency operations. Mayor Swaim related that grants exist to help fund construction if the City can provide the land. In response to a question posed by Alderman Smith, Mayor Swaim related that there are 57 firemen and 69 police. Alderman Wilson questioned a land use plan for the Sewer Plant regarding the best utilization of the land. Mayor Swaim related that the first step would be to work with Ms. Thea Hughes and the Wastewater Commission to obtain clearance as a former contaminated site. He related that Mr. Green would be briefing the Council in a few minutes regarding other considerations for that area. He stated that the property east of the site is available, but is only suitable for a small building because of sewer easements. He reiterated that the major concern would be finding out if the City can use that site, adding that the second choice would be to relocate. He related that funds have already been spent regarding the old building, which has been adapted by the Fire Department for fire drills. He said that it would be unfortunate to loose that investment and move to another location, mentioning time for traveling to that location. He stated that it would be hoped the location could be utilized, CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 3, 2000 7:00 P.M. – 7:45 P.M. adding that directly behind the location is where the Police Department has their firing range. He mentioned cost factors regarding the rebuilding of a new firing range, adding that it would be hoped that the City could save a lot of money by combining the use of that building. He stated considerations for building a tower and making improvements to the firing range to combine use of those facilities. He stated that the City needs to have an idea regarding use of the land and that he feels the Wastewater Department would be receptive to use of the immediate surrounding area, adding that adjoining property may have to be purchased. Alderman Elliott suggested that efforts be coordinated with Wastewater and then Fire, Police and the Animal Shelter regarding a development plan and cost. Chief Vanderhoof related that the area is centrally located, response time being a factor. Ken Bouillon spoke in favor of the continuity of having the classroom near the firing range regarding training needs of the Police Department. Mayor Swaim related that a regional facility would provide the City with the opportunity to train with other departments, mentioning receptacle agreements with various volunteer fire departments and the LRAFB. He related the need for those components to work together in simulated situations for effectiveness in emergency operations. He related efforts by the Fire Department regarding joint participation in receptacle situations, adding that a facility to accommodate joint efforts would be a big plus for the City of Jacksonville. Alderman Elliott related that it might be feasible to move the Animal Shelter to a new location. Mayor Swaim related that Mr. Rhone has accepted a college teaching position. He stated that the educational program offered by the City has allowed Kyle Rhone to achieve his Masters Degree which is offered to all City employees. Mr. Rhone thanked the Council, saying that it would not have been possible if not for the opportunities afforded City Employees by the City Council. He stated that he has enjoyed his 15-year tenure during which time he has gained a lot of experience and developed good relationships that he hopes to continue. He stated that for the first year he intends to live in Jacksonville and commute. He thanked the Council on behalf of himself and his wife. CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JUNE 15, 2000 7:00 P.M. – 7:30 P.M. GENERAL: Animal Shelter Expansion/Construction Director of Administration Murice Green related the emphasis placed on animal services recently at the Municipal League meetings and suggested review of the operations facility and animal control services. He related that a volunteer group the “Pet Angels” purpose is to assist with the needs, operations and programs of the Animal Shelter and to solicit funds, support and assistance for the animal population served by the Shelter. He related that Pet Angels have joined with the City evaluating the needs of the Shelter, adding that their primary focus is the humane treatment of animals while the City’s focus is naturally the efficient operation and expenditure of the taxpayers money. He stated that he feels the mix will be good in looking at needs. He presented a brief history of the Animal Shelter, saying that the Shelter was built in 1976 at the current location and was a 20’ x 24’ structure at the time. In 1984, the kennels were expanded by adding eighteen kennels to the south end of the building. He then stated that ten years later in 1994, the office area was added to the front of the shelter as a 14’ x 24’ structure and that this year ten more kennels were added outside the building for quarantine and holding. He did point out that interestingly the intake of animals has been consistent since 1992. He then pointed out that the adoption rate in 1996 had dropped to approximately 5.9% and the euthanasia rate was up at 70%. He added that in 1996, an additional employee was approved and in 1997 the adoption rate increased to 10% and is now standing at approximately 12% and that the euthanasia rate went from 69% down to about 59%. He theorized that the addition of an employee to greet customers has made the difference. He said overall it appears that every eight to ten years the shelter has made additions and updated services. He related that the question now is to either expand/modify the present facility or build a new facility, saying that options would be reviewed in the next coming months working with Pet Angels. He stated that Pet Angels have already provided some Shelter needs that deal with disease control and the humane guidelines of animals. He related that the volunteers are coming online and that they will help and support in those type of activities, which are manpower intensive. CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JUNE 15, 2000 7:00 P.M. – 7:30 P.M. He stated that he wanted to make Council aware of all considerations. He related that grant money is available, but is usually reserved for non-profit organizations such as Pet Angels. He related that sometime in the following 60 days a plan will be formulated regarding Shelter considerations. He informed the Council that he has received input from agencies that provide these type plans. He then stated that it was thought that pet laws passed in July of last year requiring the spay and neuter of all animals adopted would adversely affect the program, but has in fact helped it because of agencies that are looking for special type animals. He further pointed out that the law has cut back on warrants for not having animals spay or neutered. He concluded by saying that a review is necessary regarding the many changes that have occurred. He stated that the ordinance was last reviewed in 1996 and is being considered for update. He related that this provides an opportunity to look at the program and facility to assess needs. He stated that the facility may in fact need to be located elsewhere, and offered that it had been suggested that it might make a good classroom area. He said that he had received a two-page formula from the Pet Angles that will determine cost and size needs of a facility. He invited those Council members wishing to serve to join the committee in working through all considerations. Alderman Fletcher related that the euthanasia rate has always bothered him, adding that his family adopted a pet from the animal shelter previously. He stated that he would like to see the City along with the group volunteers who are focused on humane treatment, create a Domestic Animal Commission. He suggested that the Commission could inform Council on a regular basis of its vision and help to keep the focus on progress. He stated that he would like to see the Council give its total support and set the example for other communities. Mayor Swaim related that given new laws passed, the adoption process has become more difficult, pointing out that in some cases its cost can be as much as animals purchased through a pet shop. Discussion ensued regarding cost to spay or neuter an animal and Mayor Swaim related current efforts to work with local veterinary clinics regarding cost. He then pointed out that Animal Control Officers duties extend outside the realm of cats and dogs, citing a recent call regarding a rattle snake in a garage. He stated that the Animal Control officers have handled calls for pigs, cows, and CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JUNE 15, 2000 7:00 P.M. – 7:30 P.M. even a bear that had to be chased across town. He related that there are various complaints regarding skunks and raccoons. He said he is very thankful to the volunteers for their help, adding that handling the dogs requires training because of the liability involved with the possibility of a dog bite. He related that a training session was offered last Saturday regarding Animal Shelter procedure. In response to a question from Alderman Wilson, Mayor Swaim related that the County Animal Control has not provided much help, adding that Jacksonville does not have the resources to handle animal calls from the surrounding area. He related problems regarding animals being dropped off at the Animal Shelter from County residents. Discussion ensued regarding annual cost for the operation of the Animal Control Shelter, mentioning strides for improvements and services. ANNOUNCEMENTS: Mayor Swaim announced that the National League of Cities meeting is December 6-9th asking that Council members interested in attending contact Bertha Tipton for reservations. TRICKEY LANE RAILROAD CROSSING REPAIRS City Engineer Whisker related that individual tracks have been brought on site to build tracks without ribbons, adding that trains are being run back and forth to settle the rocks under the tracks. He stated that this is a process that should take approximately a month before beginning improvements on the intersection. Mayor Swaim said he believed that they would install a concrete crossing that will make a smoother crossing. He then related that Trickey Lane has been paved up to the crossing. He apologized for the difficulty regarding the paving program, explaining that upon milling certain streets it was discovered that the sub-grade was not adequate and required extended repairs. He stated that employee situations regarding hot weather conditions was also a factor in the progression of work being completed on time. He related that even with the delays the work being performed has been of good quality, adding that the City has taken advantage of the millings in other areas and storage for future projects. He related a savings cost regarding SB2 gravel and fill by using the millings. CITY OF JACKSONVILLE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JUNE 15, 2000 7:00 P.M. – 7:30 P.M. CONDEMNATION PROGRESS: City Engineer Whisker related that two of the five house owners have contacted the Engineering Department and related they are interested in making repairs. He stated that repair work begun at 312 South Oak and is scheduled for completion by the end of September. He then said that the owner of 192 Pike has begun repair work on the inside of the home. Mayor Swaim related that one house does not have a bathroom, however no one is living in the house, adding that if they bring it up to code the City will have to remove it from the condemnation list as long as no one is living there. Mayor Swaim updated the audience on the condition of Police Chief Hibbs, saying that his last report said that he is doing very well, has completed angioplasty surgery at Baptist Hospital, and has returned to Rebsamen for rehabilitation. He stated that he was impressed with his recovery progress and hoped he would return soon. Discussion ensued regarding the progress of the North Belt Loop and development considerations for the large bean field. ADJOURNMENT: Mayor Swaim without objection adjourned the meeting at approximately 7:45 p.m. Respectfully, ________________________ _________________________ Susan L. Davitt MAYOR TOMMY SWAIM City Clerk-Treasurer