City Council

PROCEEDINGS OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF BOSSIER CITY STATE OF LOUISIANA TAKEN AT A REGULAR MEETING JULY 6, 2021 The City Council of the City of Bossier City, State of Louisiana, met in Regular session in Council Chambers, 620 Benton Road, Bossier City, Louisiana, July 6, 2021 at 3:00 PM Invocation was given by Pastor Uelyss Reed Pledge of Allegiance led by Council Member Jeff Free Roll Call as follows: Present: Honorable Councilors David Montgomery, Jr., Chris Smith, Jeffery Darby, Don Williams, Jeff Free and Vince Maggio Also Present: Mayor, Thomas Chandler and City Clerk, Phyllis McGraw City Clerk, Phyllis McGraw, read statement about decorum during meeting and public participation in the meeting. By: Mr. Free Motion to approve Minutes of the June 15, 2021, Regular Meeting and dispense with the reading Seconded by Mr. Williams No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Darby Motion to approve agenda. Seconded by Mr. Smith No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous Ceremonial Matters/Recognition of Guests- Elect President for Bossier City Council for term ending June 30, 2022. By: Mr. Darby Motion to elect Don Williams for Council President for term ending June 30, 2022 Seconded by Mr. Free No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous Elect Vice President for Bossier City Council for term ending June 30, 2022. By: Mr. Williams Motion to elect Jeffery Darby for Council Vice President for term ending June 30, 2022 Seconded by Mr. Montgomery, Jr. No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous Kelly Wells, Shreveport - Bossier Sports Commission, thanked the Council and Mayor for allowing use of the Brookshires Grocery Arena for the Red River Balloon Rally. He noted the success of the event and mentioned Sports Commission Events that were upcoming. He also presents a signed Red River Balloon Rally Print to the Council. City Appointments - Appoint Interim District 1, City Council Member to serve until the 2021 Bossier City Council District 1 Special fall elections are complete. Mr. Williams announced that each candidate would have 2 or 3 minutes to present their case as to why they would be the best fit for the position and that the Council would draw names as to the order. City Clerk McGraw announced that candidate Jimmy Latham withdrew his name from consideration and wished to remaining candidates good luck. Mr. Darby drew names Scott Irwin-Mr. Irwin spoke on why he wanted the interim seat. Discussion between Mr. Darby, Mr. Smith and Mr. Irwin about future plans of running for seat and the will of voters. Lee Jeter-Mr. Jeter spoke on why he wanted the interim seat. Discussion between Mr. Smith and Mr. Jeter on Mr. Jeter's goals between now and Oct. Darren Ashley-Mr. Ashley spoke on why he wanted the interim seat. Discussion between Mr. Smith and Mr. Ashley concerning future plans of running for seat. Brian Hammons-Mr. Hammons spoke on why he wanted the interim seat. Discussion between Mr. Smith and Mr. Hammons concerning his priorities for District 1. By: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Motion to approve Scott Irwin as Interim City Council District 1 member until the Special Elections to fill the seat are complete. Seconded by Mr. Darby Michael Farris, Linda Vilmerette, Donna Gramaldi and Zander Ashley spoke in opposition of appointing Mr. Irwin for the position. Mr. Montgomery asked City Clerk, McGraw to please read meeting rules due to loud audience members. Motion carries with the following vote: Yeas-Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Maggio Nays- Mr. Smith and Mr. Free Absent -none Abstain - none Mr. Montgomery asked Marshal Whitman to remind audience about noise. Marshal Whitman advised audience members that anyone caught making noise will be escorted out of building. City Clerk, Phyllis McGraw administered the oath of office to Councilman Irwin. Mr. Irwin was seated as a voting member for the rest of the meeting In accordance with Bossier City Charter, Chapter 3, Section 3.12- Consider re-appointment City Clerk - Phyllis McGraw By: Mr. Darby Motion to re-appoint City Clerk- Phyllis McGraw until June 30, 2025. Seconded by Mr. Montgomery, Jr. No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous In accordance with Bossier City Charter, Chapter 8, Section 8.02-Consider Mayor's recommendation to appoint City Attorney- Charles Jacobs- Adopt a Resolution authorizing the appointment of E. Charles Jacobs as the City Attorney for Bossier City. By: Mr. Free Motion to in accordance with Bossier City Charter, Chapter 8, Section 8.02-Consider Mayor's recommendation to appoint City Attorney- Charles Jacobs- Adopt a Resolution authorizing the appointment of E. Charles Jacobs as the City Attorney for Bossier City. Seconded by Mr. Smith- Motion cancelled with Vote to continue item for 30 days. By: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Motion to continue appointment of City Attorney for 30 days (August 3rct Meeting) Seconded by Mr. Darby Discussion from Mayor Chandler and Council on continuance. Lee Jeter, John Settle, Robert Right, Timothy Huck and AI Brookins all spoke on issue. No further comment Motion carried with following vote: Yeas: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Irwin, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams and Mr. Maggio Nays: Mr. Smith and Mr. Free Absent: none Abstain: none In accordance with Bossier City Charter, Chapter 7, Section 7.03- Consider Mayor's recommendation to appoint Chief Administrative Officer - Shane Cheatham - Adopt a Resolution authorizing the appointment of Shane Cheatham as the Chief Administrative Officer for Bossier City. By: Mr. Smith Motion to approve. Motion died for lack of a second In accordance with Bossier City Charter, Chapter 8, Section 8.03-Consider Mayor's recommendation to appoint Assistant City Attorney - Richard Ray - Adopt a Resolution authorizing the appointment of Richard Ray as the Assistant City Attorney for Bossier City. By: Mr. Fee Motion to approve. Seconded by Mr. Smith Motion cancelled with Vote to continue item for 30 days. Mr. Ray discussed charter and Ord concerning hiring. City Clerk, McGraw read hiring Ord. City Council discussed item. By: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Motion to continue this item for 30 days to run concurrent with continuance of the City Attorney (August 3rd Meeting) Seconded by Mr. Darby Dennis Bamburg spoke in opposition of continuance. No further comment Motion carries with the following vote: Yeas: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Irwin, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams and Mr. Maggio Nays: Mr. Smith and Mr. Free Absent: none Abstain: none Appeals/Hearings Hearing to review the recommendation of demolition and removal of a dilapidated structure located at the following legal address: 2453 Trichel Street A., Bossier City, LA. (Lot 7, Blk 14, Airport Annex) Mr. Roger Voet, Property Standards went over steps taken to get to this point. City appointed attorney, Gahagan Pugh spoke on steps he took to located and notify the owners. No owners present. By: Mr. Williams Motion to demolish as soon as legally possible. Seconded by Mr. Montgomery No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous Hearing to review the recommendation of demolition and removal of a dilapidated structure located at the following legal address: 404 North Circle., Bossier City, LA. (Lot 18, Hall Park Subdivision Unit #2) Mr. Robert Guyton, Property Standards went over steps taken to get to this point. City appointed attorney, Gahagan Pugh spoke on steps he took to located and notify the owners. No owners present. By: Mr. Williams Motion to demolish as soon as legally possible. Seconded by Mr. Montgomery No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous Hearing of appeal for Danee Moore, 4717 O'Keefe, Bossier City, LA, 71111 for violation of City Ordinance Section 14- Vicious and Dangerous Dog Dale Keeler, Animal Control, spoke on events that led up to the dog being declared vicious. Ms. Denee Moore spoke to Council to asked that they spare her dog. No motion was made. Ms. Moore was advised she could appeal the declaration in District Court. Bids- Witness opening of sealed bids for Bid #P21-12 Walter 0. Bigby Carriageway Drainage Pump Station Project JB James Construction, LLC $5,357,690.00 Max Foote Construction Company, LLC $4,200,000.00 By: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Motion to take bids under advisement due to them being over estimate. Seconded by Mr. Williams No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous Unfinished Business - The following Ordinance offered and adopted: Ordinance No. 63 Of2021 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE SALE OF LOTS 1, 2, 3 SWAN LAKE SUBDIVISION, UNIT# 3 TO JACK SKAGGS TO REPURPOSE FOR COMMERCIAL USE FOR THE APPRAISED VALUE PURSUANT TO LOUISIANA R.S. 33:4712 WHEREAS, the City of Bossier City owns Lots 1, 2, 3 Swan Lake Subdivision, Unit #3, located at the Southeast Comer of Swan Lake Road and O'Keefe Street in Bossier City, Louisiana; and WHEREAS, the referenced property has been appraised by David Volentine, MAl and the market value of the subject property as of April22, 2021 is ELEVEN THOUSAND AND N0/100 ($11,000.00) for Lot 1, THREE THOUSAND AND N0/100 ($3,000.00) for Lot 2 and ONE THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED AND N0/100 ($1,300.00) for Lot 3; and WHEREAS, Jack Skaggs proposes to use the property to expand his internet sales business that could evolve into a store front business in the future; and  WHEREAS, this will be a commercial grade building which will meet the current codes and ordinances of Bossier City and will put the property back on the tax roll; and WHEREAS, Jack Skaggs shall be responsible for all costs including advertising costs, closing costs, and recording fees that are required to complete the transfer of the property; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, that the City of Bossier City, after due notice intends to transfer said property pursuant to the provisions of La. R.S. 33:4712 in consideration of the economic benefit created as a result of the said transfer; and BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that this ordinance will be on file in the office of the Bossier City Council Clerk for public inspection and it constitutes the entirety of the contract between Jack Skaggs; and BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that any and all objections to said transaction shall be filed in the office of the Bossier City Council Clerk, prior to July 6, 2021 at 3:00P.M. before the second reading of this ordinance and/or by appearing at the Bossier City Council meeting at which this ordinance will be considered for adoption. The above and foregoing Ordinance was read in full at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. David Montgomery, Jr., and seconded by Mr. Jeff Free, and adopted on the 6th, day of July, 2021, by the following vote: AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Irwin, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none Don W. Williams, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Ordinance offered and adopted: Ordinance No. 64 Of2021 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE SALE OF TRACTS 1 & 2 SWAN LAKE ROAD TO JACK SKAGGS TO REPURPOSE FOR COMMERCIAL USE FOR THE APPRAISED VALUE PURSUANT TO LOUISIANA R.S. 33:4712 WHEREAS, the City of Bossier City owns Tracts 1 & 2 Swan Lake Road, located on the West Side of Swan Lake Road, North of East Texas Street in Bossier City, Louisiana; and  WHEREAS, the referenced property has been appraised by David Volentine, MAI and the Whereas, the referenced property has been appraised by David Volentine, MAI and the market value of the subject property as of April22, 2021 is SIX THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED AND N0/100 ($6,300.00) for Tract 1 and THIRTEEN THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED AND N0/100 ($13,500.00) for Tract 2; and WHEREAS, Jack Skaggs proposes to use the property to build a multi-unit office/storage space to be leased to service industry type businesses; and WHEREAS, this will be a commercial grade building which will meet the current codes and ordinances of Bossier City and will put the property back on the tax roll; and WHEREAS, Jack Skaggs shall be responsible for all costs including advertising costs, closing costs, and recording fees that are required to complete the transfer of the property; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, that the City of Bossier City, after due notice intends to transfer said property pursuant to the provisions of La. R.S. 33:4712 in consideration of the economic benefit created as a result of the said transfer; and BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that this ordinance will be on file in the office of the Bossier City Council Clerk for public inspection and it constitutes the entirety of the contract between Jack Skaggs; and BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that any and all objections to said transaction shall be filed in the office of the Bossier City Council Clerk, prior to July 6, 2021 at 3:00P.M. before the second reading of this ordinance and/or by appearing at the Bossier City Council meeting at which this ordinance will be considered for adoption. The above and foregoing Ordinance was read in full at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. David Montgomery, Jr., and seconded by Mr. Jeff Free, and adopted on the 6th, day of July, 2021, by the following vote: AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Irwin, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none Don W. Williams, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Ordinance offered and adopted: Ordinance No. 65 Of2021 AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING FIFTEEN THOUSAND DOLLARS ($15,000.00) FROM THE 2021 SALES TAX CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND TO INSTALL GATES AND BOLLARDS TO SECURE THE NORTH BOSSIER PARK AT BROWNLEE AT NIGHT. WHEREAS, residents have expressed concerns about the increase in criminal activity in the park at night; and WHEREAS, recently a murder took place in the park at night; and WHEREAS, the installation of gates and bollards will keep traffic out of the park at night, creating a safer environment for the community that surrounds the park; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened that $15,000.00 is hereby appropriated from the 2021 Sales Tax Capital Improvement fund to install gates and bollards to eliminate access to the North Bossier Park at Brownlee at night; The above and foregoing Ordinance was read in full at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. David Montgomery, Jr., and seconded by Mr. Don Williams, and adopted on the 6th, day of July, 2021, by the following vote: AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Irwin, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none Don W. Williams, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Ordinance offered and adopted: Ordinance No. 66 Of2021 ADOPT AN ORDINANCE TO FUND THE PURCHASE OF A USED WHEELED LOADER FOR THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT DIVISION AT A COST OF $157,900.00 TO COME FROM SEWER CAPITAL AND CONTINGENCY FUND  WHEREAS, the City is recommending the purchase of a used wheeled loader for the Wastewater Treatment Division; and WHEREAS, $157,900.00 will come from Sewer Capital Contingency Fund NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, that the Bossier City Council does hereby approve an ordinance to appropriate $157,900.00 to come from Sewer Capital Contingency Fund to purchase a used wheeled loader for the Wastewater Treatment Division. The above and foregoing Ordinance was read in full at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. David Montgomery, Jr., and seconded by Mr. Don Williams, and adopted on the 6th, day of July, 2021, by the following vote: AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Irwin, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none Don W. Williams, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Ordinance offered and adopted: ORDINANCE NO. 67 OF 2021 AN ORDINANCE TO APPROVE REPORT OF CHANGE ORDER 1 FOR THE SWAN LAKE BALLFIELD RESTROOMS (CLIFFORD ALMOND), WITH AN INCREASE OF $41,452.00, FORA TOTAL CONTRACT PRICE OF $505,452.00. WHEREAS; the Swan Lake Ballfield Restrooms project is requiring a new lift station to be built; and WHEREAS; said lift station would require an additional $41,452.00 to be added to the contract price, for a total contract of $505,452.00 for this project; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, in regular session convened that the Bossier City Council does hereby approve the report of Change Order for the Swan Lake Ballfield Restrooms (Clifford Almond), with an increase of$41,452.00; and BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that the Mayor is hereby authorized to sign any and all instruments in connection with the furtherance of this Ordinance. The above and foregoing Ordinance was read in full at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. David Montgomery, Jr. and seconded by Mr. Jeffery Darby, and adopted on the 6th, day of July, 2021, by the following vote: AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Irwin, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none Don W. Williams, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Ordinance offered and adopted: Ordinance No. 68 Of 2021 AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING THE TINSLEY DITCH BASIN RELIEF PLAN AND APPROPRIATING ONE-HUNDRED THIRTY-FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS ($135,000.00) FROM THE 2021 SALES TAX CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND FOR CLEANING THE DITCH AND DETERMINING RIGHT OF WAY FOR ACQUISITION OF A MAINTENANCE EASEMENT. WHEREAS, a lengthy drainage ditch originates near the rear of the old Albertson's Store Shopping Center on Highway 80 and runs to the east; and WHEREAS, the referenced ditch has been the focus of past flooding events, and intermittent clean outs, and some reconstruction; and WHEREAS, the drainage ditch extends more than four thousand feet to a set of culverts that run under Crowing Lane and ultimately into Mack's Bayou; and WHEREAS, recent improvements within this basin include: (1) Tinsley Complex Field additions (2) Selective Cleaning of the woodland area to the north of Tinsley (3) Commercial development north of the Public Works complex WHEREAS, the recent improvements to the Tinsley area have increased concentrations of storm water runoff to the west and the Tinsley Ditch is inadequate to disperse the storm water generated by all the recent improvements; and  WHEREAS, the western wooded area drains poorly because of poor ditch hydraulics and the absence of any maintenance in years; and WHEREAS, solutions are needed to relieve the wooded area west of the complex and to provide for the inevitable future development of this area and the increasing burden it is placing on the Tinsley Ditch; and WHEREAS, funds are needed for cleaning the referenced ditch for immediate improvement to drainage in the area and to identify right of way for an appropriate maintenance easement to maintain the Tinsley Ditch; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, that the local ditch shall be named the Tinsley Ditch; BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that $135,000.00 is hereby appropriated from the 2021 Sales Tax Capital Improvement Fund for the purpose of immediate improvement to facilitate positive drainage and for identification and acquisition of an adequate easement to properly maintain the Tinsley Ditch; The above and foregoing Ordinance was read in full at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. David Montgomery, Jr., and seconded by Mr. Jeffery Darby, and adopted on the 6th, day of July, 2021, by the following vote: AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Irwin, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none Don W. Williams, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk New Business - The following Ordinance offered and adopted: Ordinance No. 69 Of2021 AN ORDINANCE TO DECLARE THAT AN EMERGENCY DID EXIST IN THE CITY OF BOSSIER CITY WHICH AFFECTED, PROPERTY, PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY DUE TO THE REQUIREMENT TO REPAIR DRAINAGE LINE LOCATED ON ELSA JANE AT A COST OF $500,000.00 TO COME FROM THE 2021 SALES TAX CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND; AND AUTHORIZES THE CITY TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT WITH PULLEY CONSTRUCTION, INC. FOR COMPLETION OF WORK. WHEREAS, an emergency to repair drainage line located on Elsa Jane and; WHEREAS, the Engineering Department hereby request $500,000.00 to be appropriated from the 2021 Sales Tax Capital Improvement Fund.  NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, that the Bossier City Council does hereby declare that an emergency exists and appropriates $500,000.00 to come from the Sales Tax Capital Improvement Fund for this declared emergency. The above and foregoing Ordinance was read in full at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. David Montgomery, Jr., and seconded by Mr. Jeffery Darby, and adopted on the 6th, day of July, 2021, by the following vote: AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Irwin, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none Don W. Williams, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk Adopt a Resolution declaring a moratorium on any purchases of any City Vehicles whether budgeted or not until legislation can be adopted to allow for a Policy for said purchases. Mr. Darby asked for point of order on item. Mr. Williams, Mr. Darby, Mr. Smith and Mayor Chandler discussed item. David Jones spoke on Ordinance that requires vehicle's need to be marked. No further comment The following Resolution offered and adopted: Resolution No. 57 of2021 A RESOLUTION DECLARING A MORATORUM ON ANY PURCHASES OF ANY CITY VECHICLES WHETHER BUDGETED OR NOT UNTIL LEGISLATION CAN BE ADOPTED TO ALLOW FOR A POLICY FOR SAID PURCHASES WHEREAS, vehicles have been purchased that are in excessive of State Contracts and for exorbitant amounts of money; WHERAS, these purchases were under the total budgeted amounts but were not in the best interest of the tax payers of the City of Bossier City; WHEREAS, a system needs to be put in place overseeing these vehicle purchases to comply with State Bid Laws and being responsible fiduciary agents of the City of Bossier City. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in due, legal and regular session convened, that it hereby finds it in the public interest to declare an immediate moratorium on any and all vehicle purchases using taxpayer funds. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this moratorium shall remain in place until legislation can be adopted to better regulate vehicle purchases. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that all Ordinances or Resolutions or parts of Ordinances and Resolutions in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. The above and foregoing Resolution was read in full at open and legal session convened, and adopted on the 6th, day of July, 2021, by the following vote: AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Irwin, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none Don W. Williams, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk By: Mr. Darby Motion to introduce an Ordinance repealing all remaining 2021 funding and any carryover funding for vehicle purchases and placing a moratorium on said purchases from all departments without Council Approval. Seconded by: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Motion to introduce an Ordinance approving an amendment to the Unified Development Code, Conditional Use Regulation, Article 3.3.2 Seconded by: Mr. Williams Mr. Darby asked for more information. Carlotta Askew-Brown explained change requested. No further comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Motion to introduce an Ordinance authorizing Mayor Tommy Chandler to execute the attached agreement with NTB Associates, Inc. and appropriating Three Hundred Thousand Dollars ($300,000.00) from the Walter 0. Bigby Carriageway Fund for services to be provided in conjunction with said agreement. Seconded by: Mr. Williams Mr. Montgomery asked Ben Rauschenbach, Manchac questions concerning this item No further comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous Mr. Maggio left meeting at 5:03PM Public Hearing concerning a substantial amendment to the FY 2019 CDBG Annual Action Plan and CDBG-CV (Cares Act) Funding Mr. Williams opened Public Hearing. Bob Brown, Community Development Director, spoke on what this amendment would do. Mr. Williams asked for Public Comment, hearing none Mr. Williams closed the hearing on the amendment RESOLUTION NO. 58 OF 2021 A RESOLUTION ADOPTING AN AMENDMENT TO THE FISCAL YEAR 2019 ACTION PLAN FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT FUNDS AND A RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THE CITY'S APPLICATION TO THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT FOR FUNDING (ENTITLEMENT STATUS) UNDER AUTHORITY OF THE CORONAVIRUS AID, RELIEF AND ECONOMIC SECURITY ACT (CARES ACT) (PUBLIC LAW 116-136) AND TITLE I OF THE HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACT OF 1974 (42 U.S.C. 3535) (d) and (42 U.S.C. 5301) (et.seq.) WHEREAS, the primary objective of The Coronavirus Aid, Relief And Economic Security Act (Cares Act) (Public Law 116-136) makes available supplemental Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding for grants to prevent, prepare for and respond to coronavirus (CDBG-CV grants). WHEREAS, the primary objective of the Community Development Entitlement Program is the development of viable urban communities, including decent housing, a suitable living environment, expanding economic opportunities for persons of low and moderate income, and whereas, consistent with this primary objective; the Federal Assistance realized from this application is for the support of community development activities which are directed toward the following specific objectives:  (1) The elimination of slums and blight and the prevention of blighting influences and the deterioration of property and neighborhood and community facilities of importance to the welfare of the community, principally persons of low and moderate income; (2) The elimination of conditions which are detrimental to health, safety and public welfare, through code enforcement, demolition, interim rehabilitation assistance, and related activities; (3) The conversation of the city's housing stock in order to provide a decent home and a suitable living environment for all persons, but principally those of low and moderate income; (4) The improvement of the quality of community services, principally for persons of low and moderate income, which are essential for sound community development; (5) The reduction of the isolation of income groups within communities and geographical areas and the promotion of an increase in the diversity and vitality of neighborhoods of housing opportunities for person of lower income and the revitalization of deteriorating neighborhoods to attract persons of higher income; and (6) The restoration and preservation of properties of special value or historic, architecture or aesthetic reasons. WHEREAS, the City of Bossier City possesses legal authority to apply for this grant amendment: In the amount of $500,566 for supplemental Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding for grants to prevent, prepare for and respond to coronavirus (CDBG-CV Round 3 grants). NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Bossier City hereby supports Tommy H. Chandler, Mayor of Bossier City, Louisiana, the chief official of Bossier City, to apply for and sign all document as necessary and appropriate in the City's application of Housing and Urban Development Programs. This resolution having been submitted to a vote and declared adopted on the 6th day of July, 2021 by the following vote is on motion of Mr. Jeff Darby and seconded by Mr. David Montgomery, Jr. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Irwin, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams and Mr. Free NAYS: none ABSENT: Mr. Maggio ABSTAIN: none Don W. Williams, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk Mr. Maggio returned to the meeting at 5:06PM The following Resolution offered and adopted: RESOLUTION NO. 59 of 2021 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING MAYOR THOMAS CHANDLER TO EXECUTE ANY ALL AGREEMENTS WITH THE STATE OF LOUISIANA AND/OR DIVISION OF ADMINISTRATION FACILITY PLANNING AND CONTROL FOR THE LOUISIANA TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH CENTER. STATE PROJECT# 50-M29-0011-01 WHEREAS, the City of Bossier City has an ongoing project funded by State of Louisiana Division of Administration Facility Planning and Control for the construction of the Louisiana Technology Research Institute; and WHEREAS, the City Council of Bossier City grants authority to the Mayor to sign any all documents to further the construction and completion of this project; and  NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened that Mayor Thomas Chandler is authorized to execute an agreement and any other documents required with the State of Louisiana and/or Division of Administration Facility Planning and Control for the funding of this project and to further authorized to sign all other related documents pertaining to this project, including certifying requests for State disbursements. The above and foregoing Resolution was read in full at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. David Montgomery, Jr., seconded by Mr. Jeff Free, and adopted on the 6th, day of July, 2021, by the following vote: AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Irwin, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none Don W. Williams, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Resolution offered and adopted: RESOLUTION 60 OF 2021 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OF AN OPERATOR FOR THE WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT IN PUBLIC UTILITIES. WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 21 of2018 implemented a requirement assuring that the City department budgets not be exceeded by any hiring of any personnel; and WHEREAS, the position of WWTP Operator is vacant due to transfer; and WHEREAS, the administration and the department assures that all current budgets have been verified and that no authorized salary has been exceeded; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, that the administration is authorized to proceed with hiring procedures for the fulfillment of this position and adopted on the 6th, day of July, 2021, by the following vote: AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Irwin, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none Don W. Williams, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Resolution offered and adopted: RESOLUTION 61 Of 2021 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OF A METER READER FOR THE CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 21 of 2018 implemented a requirement assuring that the City department budgets not be exceeded by any hiring of any personnel; and WHEREAS, the position of a METER READER is vacant due to resignation; and WHEREAS, the administration and the department assures that all current budgets have been verified and that no authorized salary has been exceeded; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, that the administration is authorized to proceed with hiring procedures for the fulfillment of this position. The above and foregoing Resolution was read in full at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. David Montgomery, Jr., and seconded by Mr. Don Williams, and adopted on the 6th, day of July, 2021, by the following vote: AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Irwin, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none Don W. Williams, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Resolution offered and adopted: RESOLUTION 62 Of 2021 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OF TEN (10) SEASONAL MONITORS, TEN (10) SEASONAL SCOREKEEPERS AND FIFTY (50) SEASONAL OFFICIALS FOR YOUTH AND ADULT SPORTS FOR THE PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 21 of2018 and Ordinance 76 of2019 implemented a requirement assuring that the City department budgets not be exceeded by any hiring of any personnel; and WHEREAS, the position of Seasonal Monitor, Scorekeeper and Official is vacant due to seasonal employment; and WHEREAS, the administration and the department assures that all current budgets have been verified and that no authorized salary has been exceeded; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, that the administration is authorized to proceed with hiring procedures for the fulfillment of this position. The above and foregoing Resolution was read in full at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. David Montgomery, Jr., and seconded by Mr. Don Williams, and adopted on the 6th, day of July, 2021, by the following vote: AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Irwin, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none Don W. Williams, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Resolution offered and adopted: RESOLUTION NO. 63 OF 2021 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OF ONE LINE EMPLOYEE DUE TO VACANCY FROM RETIREMENT: WHEREAS, Ordinance No.2 of2010 implemented a hiring freeze requiring Bossier City Council approval for the hiring of any personnel; WHEREAS, one vacancy exist in the Fire Department due to Retirement and filling this positions will allow operations to continue; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular and legal session convened, that the administration is authorized to replace one Firefighter position. The above and foregoing Resolution was read in full at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. David Montgomery, Jr., and second by Mr. Jeffery Darby, and adopted on the 6th, day of July, 2021, by the following vote: AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Irwin, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none Don W. Williams, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Resolution offered and adopted: RESOLUTION 64 Of 2021 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OR PROMOTION OF A RECREATION MAINTENANCE WORKER II AND BACKFILLING ANY POSITION THIS MAY CREATE FOR THE PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 21 of2018 implemented a requirement assuring that the City department budgets not be exceeded by any hiring of any personnel; and  WHEREAS, the position of a Recreation Maintenance Worker II is vacant due to promotion, retirement, resignation or termination; and WHEREAS, the administration and the department assures that all current budgets have been verified and that no authorized salary has been exceeded; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, that the administration is authorized to proceed with hiring procedures for the fulfillment of this position. The above and foregoing Resolution was read in full at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. David Montgomery, Jr., and seconded by Mr. Don Williams, and adopted on the 6th, day of July, 2021, by the following vote: AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Irwin, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none Don W. Williams, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk By: Mr. Free Motion to approve Parade Permit Fee Waiver for GreenAcres Place HOA, July 3, 2021. Seconded by Mr. Darby General comment that these applications are still getting to the Council late. No further comment. Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Motion to introduce an Ordinance to appropriate $116,000.68 from LDEQ SRF Loan CS- 221103-02 to be used to supplement the already appropriated $250,000.00 from Ordinance No. 36 of 2020 Waller Avenue Lift Station. Seconded by Mr. Williams Mr. Williams asked Ben Rauschenbach, Manchac, questions about this Ordinance No further comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous Adopt an Ordinance to declare than an emergency did exist in the City of Bossier City which affected property, public health and safety due to settlement along Airline Drive near Murphy Street and allocating $300,000.00 to come from Sewer Capital & Contingency Fund for Emergency Traffic Control, Investigations and Restoration efforts. Mr. Darby and Mr. Montgomery, Jr., asked Ben Rauschenbach, Manchac, questions about this continuing to reoccur and possible solutions. The following Ordinance offered and adopted: Ordinance No. 70 Of 2021 AN ORDINANCE TO DECLARE THAT AN EMERGENCY DID EXIST IN THE CITY OF BOSSIER CITY WHICH AFFECTED PROPERTY, PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY DUE TO SETTLEMENT ALONG AIRLINE DRIVE NEAR MURPHY STREET AND ALLOCATING $300,000.00 TO COME FROM SEWER CAPITAL & CONTINGENCY FUND FOR EMERGENCY TRAFFIC CONTROL, INVESTIGATIONS, AND RESTORATION EFFORTS. WHEREAS, subsurface settlement has been identified along Airline Dr. near Murphy Street that is endangering the integrity of Airline Dr. which is affecting property, public health and safety and; WHEREAS, investigation efforts are underway to identify the cause of the settlement and outline a proposed path for restoration and; WHEREAS, the Utility Department hereby request $300,000.00 to be appropriated from the Sewer Capital & Contingency Fund for emergency traffic control, investigations, and restoration efforts. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, that the Bossier City Council does hereby declare that an emergency exists and appropriates $300,000.00 to come from the Sewer Capital & Contingency Fund for this declared emergency. The above and foregoing Ordinance was read in full at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. David Montgomery, Jr., and seconded by Mr. Don Williams, and adopted on the 6th, day of July, 2021, by the following vote: AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Irwin, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none Don W. Williams, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Ordinance offered and adopted: Ordinance No. 71 Of2021 AN ORDINANCE TO DECLARE THAT AN EMERGENCY DID EXIST IN THE CITY OF BOSSIER CITY WHICH AFFECTED, PROPERTY, PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY DUE TO THE REQUIREMENT TO REPAIR THE NORTH BOSSIER PUMP STATION AT A COST OF $55,000.00 TO COME FROM SEWER CAPITAL & CONTINGENCY FUND; AND AUTHORIZES THE CITY TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT WITH AXIS CONSTRUCTION FOR COMPLETION OF WORK. WHEREAS, an emergency to repair The North Bossier Pump Station was required due to station failure and related complications and; WHEREAS, the Utility Department hereby request $55,000.00 to be appropriated from the Sewer Capital & Contingency Fund. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, that the Bossier City Council does hereby declare that an emergency exists and appropriates $55,000.00 to come from the Sewer Capital & Contingency Fund for this declared emergency and authorizes the city to enter into a contract with Axis Construction for completion of work.  The above and foregoing Ordinance was read in full at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Don Williams, and seconded by Mr. David Montgomery, Jr., and adopted on the 6th, day of July, 2021, by the following vote: AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Irwin, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none Don W. Williams, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk By: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Motion to introduce an Ordinance to approve Report of Change Order 1 & 2 for the (LTRI) Louisiana Technology Research Institute Bossier with an increase in project cost of $80,055.85 from the 2016 Sales Tax Bond Issue. Seconded by Mr. Williams No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous Mr. Smith thanked everyone for making him feel welcomed at his first meeting and urged members to work together. Mr. Montgomery pressed that the Council wants to work with administration and just want clarity on issues that just came to light. Wants there to be communication between Council and Administration. Mr. Darby also spoke to new members that the issues that were continued, could be brought up prior to the 30 day deadline with a Special Meeting. There being no further business to come before this Council, the meeting adjourned at 5:19PM by Mr. Williams Respectfully submitted: Phyllis McGraw City Clerk Publish: July 14, 2021 Bossier Press Tribune