City Council

PROCEEDINGS OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF BOSSIER CITY STATE OF LOUISIANA TAKEN AT A REGULAR MEETING FEBRUARY 7, 2023 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, February 7, 2023 at 3:00 PM Invocation was given by Council Member Chris Smith Pledge of Allegiance led by Council Member Jeff Free Roll Call as follows: Present: Honorable, President Jeffery Darby, Honorable Councilors David Montgomery, Jr., Chris Smith, Brian Hammons, Don Williams, Jeff Free and Vince Maggio Also Present: Mayor, Thomas Chandler, City Attorney, Charles Jacobs and City Clerk, Phyllis McGraw City Clerk, Phyllis McGraw, read statement about decorum during meeting and public participation in the meeting. By: Mr. Williams Motion to approve Minutes of January 24, 2023, Regular Council Meeting and February 1, 2023, Special Council Meeting and dispense with the reading. Seconded by Mr. Hammons No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Williams Motion to approve agenda Seconded by Mr. Smith No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous Ceremonial Matters/Recognition of Guests – Mayor read Proclamation for Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week and presented copy to the Bentley family that lost their infant son to this defect a year ago. Mrs. Bentley spoke on issue to raise awareness. Bids – Agenda item called - Witness opening of sealed bids for Bid #P23-07 – Northside Pump Station Rehabilitation Bids Alternate #1 Axis Construction $318,000.00 $35,000.00 CDE Construction $348,424.70 $23,000.00 Dixie Overland Construction $362,775.00 $27,754.00 JPD Construction $387,600.00 $30,000.00 Pulley Construction $283,000.00 $30,000.00 Skylan Construction $375,000.00 $30,000.00 By: Mr. Williams Motion to take bids under advisement Seconded by Mr. Montgomery, Jr. No comment. Vote in favor of motion is unanimous Public Hearing/Actions on Unfinished Business – The following Ordinance offered and adopted: ORDINANCE NO. 11 OF 2023 AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING MAYOR THOMAS H. CHANDLER TO EXECUTE THE ATTACHED JOINT COOPERATIVE ENDEAVOR AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF BOSSIER CITY AND THE BOSSIER CITY ARTS COUNCIL. _____________________________________________________________________________ WHEREAS, the City of Bossier City and the Bossier Arts Council desire to work together to promote and foster cultural and entertainment events at the East Bank District; and WHEREAS, an updated Joint Cooperative Endeavor Agreement is necessary; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, by the City Council of Bossier City, in regular session convened, that Mayor Thomas H. Chandler is hereby authorized to execute the attached Joint Cooperative Endeavor Agreement marked as Exhibit “A” between the City of Bossier City and the Bossier Arts Council. The above and foregoing Ordinance was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Chris Smith, and seconded by Mr. Vince Maggio and adopted on this the 7th day of February, 2023. Further this Ordinance will publish on February 15, 2023 and will not become legal until 10 days following publication. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Hammons, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ ___________________________ Jeffery D. Darby, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk Agenda Item called – Adopt an Ordinance to amend the 2023 General Fund budget to provide funding to the Bossier Arts Council for management of the East Bank District and Plaza. By: Mr. Montgomery, Jr. Motion to continue to February 21, 2023 Council Meeting Seconded by Mr. Williams Discussion between Council and City Attorney, Charles Jacobs on need to continue item to get more information on Board Members makeup for Bossier Arts Council. No further comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous The following Ordinance offered and adopted: ORDINANCE NO. 12 OF 2023 AN ORDINANCE TO APPROVE CHANGE ORDER #1 FOR THE CITY WIDE STREET IMPROVEMENT – PHASE II PROJECT, WITH AN INCREASE OF $365,500.00, FOR A TOTAL CONTRACT PRICE OF $1,040,277.00 WHEREAS; the City Wide Street Improvement – Phase II Project bid was accepted at $674,777.00 and had a total appropriated amount of $1,100,000.00 for construction, and WHEREAS; an increased amount of $365,500.00 is to be added to the contract price to allow for additional work in each council district. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, in regular session convened that the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, approves Change Order #1 for the City Wide Street Improvement – Phase II Project. BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that the Mayor is authorized to sign any and all documents in connection with the furtherance of this Ordinance. The above and foregoing Ordinance was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Don Williams, and seconded by Mr. David Montgomery, Jr. and adopted on this the 7th day of February, 2023. Further this Ordinance will publish on February 15, 2023 and will not become legal until 10 days following publication. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Hammons, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ ___________________________ Jeffery D. Darby, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk Agenda Item called – Adopt an Ordinance to approve Report of Change Order 9 for the (LTRI) Louisiana Technology Research Institute Bossier with an increase in project cost of $47,752.00 Discussion on item between Council member Hammons and City Attorney, Charles Jacobs on where change order funding comes from. Mr. Jacobs reports state reimburses all. The following Ordinance offered and adopted: ORDINANCE NO. 13 OF 2023 ADOPT AN ORDINANCE TO APPROVE REPORT OF CHANGE ORDER 9 FOR THE (LTRI) LOUISIANA TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE BOSSIER WITH AN INCREASE IN PROJECT COST OF $47,752.00. WHEREAS; Ordinance No. 41 of 2020 appropriated $1,000,000.00 to come from the 2016 Sales Tax Bond Issue to Fund Part of the Required $2.5 Million for Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment for Construction; and WHEREAS; the State of Louisiana Facility Planning and Control Division of Administration is reimbursing the construction costs at 100%,; and WHEREAS; the State of Louisiana Facility Planning and Control Division of Administration has given concurrence for the associated Equipment Purchase. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, in regular session convened that the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, agrees to adopt an Ordinance to amend the Construction Contract for an increase in price of $47,752.00 and an increase of seventeen (17) calendar days for this project as described. The above and foregoing Ordinance was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Jeff Free, and seconded by Mr. Chris Smith and adopted on this the 7th day of February, 2023. Further this Ordinance will publish on February 15, 2023 and will not become legal until 10 days following publication. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Hammons, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ ___________________________ Jeffery D. Darby, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Ordinance offered and adopted: Ordinance No. 14 Of 2023 AN ORDINANCE ALLOCATING SIX HUNDRED THOUSAND AND NO/100 ($600,000.00) TO COME FROM THE 2023 EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES CAPITAL PROJECTS BUDGET TO REPLACE THE CURRENT STATION ALERTING SYSTEM. WHEREAS, the current Station Alerting System has reached end of life; and WHEREAS, it is imperative for safety reasons that a new system be put in place; and WHEREAS, in order to be current with PIAL standards the old system must be replaced; and WHEREAS, $600,000.00 from the 2023 Emergency Medical Services Capital Projects Budget is needed to cover the costs associated with these expenditures; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, by the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, that six hundred thousand dollars and no/100 ($600,000.00) is hereby allocated from the 2023 Emergency Medical Services Capital Projects Budget to replace the current Station Alerting System. BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that Mayor Thomas H. Chandler is hereby authorized to sign any and all documents in connection with the furtherance of this Ordinance.  BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that the 2023 Emergency Medical Services Capital Projects Budget is hereby amended to increase expenditures for a new Station Alerting System by $600,000 and decrease Fund Balance by $600,000. The above and foregoing Ordinance was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Jeff Free, and seconded by Mr. Vince Maggio and adopted on this the 7th day of February, 2023. Further this Ordinance will publish on February 15, 2023 and will not become legal until 10 days following publication. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Hammons, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ ___________________________ Jeffery D. Darby, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Ordinance offered and adopted: Ordinance No. 15 Of 2023 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE 2022 RIVERBOAT GAMING TRUST FUND 2022 BUDGET IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT BUDGET ACT ______________________________________________________________________________ WHEREAS, the Local Government Budget Act requires budget amendment when total revenue and other sources plus projected revenue and other sources within a fund are failing to meet total budgeted revenues and other sources by 5% or more; and WHEREAS, the Riverboat Gaming Trust Fund revenue for 2022 is below the 2022 budgeted revenue in the amount by $1,241,198 or 270%; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED that the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, in regular session convened, does hereby amend the 2022 Riverboat Gaming Trust Fund budget to reduce estimated interest earned by $1,241,198. The above and foregoing Ordinance was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Chris Smith, and seconded by Mr. Don Williams and adopted on this the 7th day of February, 2023. Further this Ordinance will publish on February 15, 2023 and will not become legal until 10 days following publication. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Hammons, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ ___________________________ Jeffery D. Darby, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk New Business – The following Ordinance offered and adopted: ORDINANCE NO. 16 OF 2023 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 RESTORE A 20-INCH CONCRETE WATER MAIN BLOWOUT NEAR SHED ROAD AT A COST OF $336,000.00 TO COME FROM WATER CAPITAL CONTINGENCY FUNDS. WHEREAS, on November 24, 2022, the Public Utilities Department responded to an emergency 20-inch concrete water main rupture near Shed Road off Dahlia Drive across from Mack’s Bayou requiring immediate action to repair a short section of this main; and WHEREAS, the scale and scope of this work was beyond the equipment and labor capacities of the Maintenance Division, within the Public Utilities Department; and WHEREAS, the Public Utilities Department needed additional emergency support to make repairs due to the size, scale, and nature of the water main pipe material and geometry; and WHEREAS, Pulley Construction of Bossier City, Louisiana was contacted and immediately responded to aid Bossier City at a cost of $331,892.80, which included nearly $140,000.00 in materials, to support the repair efforts; and  WHEREAS, Utiliserve, LLC of Bossier City, Louisiana was contacted and immediately responded to aid Bossier City in the emergency water valve down efforts at a cost of $3,450; and WHEREAS, $336,000.00 shall be appropriated from the Water Capital Contingency Fund. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, in regular session convened that the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, does hereby declare that an emergency exists and authorizes the Mayor to appropriate $336,000.00 to come from the Water Capital and Contingency fund to be used for emergency repairs of the 20-inch concrete water main rupture near Shed Road off of Dahlia Drive across from Mack’s Bayou; and authorizes the City to enter into any necessary contracts for completion of the work. BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that the Mayor is authorized to sign any and all documents in connection with the furtherance of this Ordinance. BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, that the 2023 Water Capital and Contingency Budget is hereby amended to increase expenditures for repairs to the 20-inch water main by $336,000.00 and decrease Fund Balance by $336,000.00. The above and foregoing Ordinance was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Jeff Free, and seconded by Mr. Chris Smith and adopted on this the 7th day of February, 2023. Further this Ordinance becomes effective immediately. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Hammons, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ ___________________________ Jeffery D. Darby, President Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk By: Mr. Williams Motion to introduce an Ordinance to amend Article II of Section 110.43 of the Code of Ordinances for the City of Bossier City, "Operation of Vehicles," to specifically regulate Motor Vehicle Noise and establishing an area of "Prohibition of Unmuffled Compression Brakes, Engine Brakes or Jake Braking" on Benton Road (Exhibit A) and providing penalties for violation thereof and authorizing the City Administration to apply to the Louisiana State Department of Transportation and Development to request permitting for the installation of Regulatory Signage on said State Louisiana Highways. Seconded by Mr. Maggio Discussion on item with Council and discussion about adding entire City. Bossier City Resident Judith Raduka spoke on need for Ordinance. No further comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Smith Motion to introduce an Ordinance authorizing Mayor Thomas H. Chandler to execute the attached Cooperative Endeavor Agreement between the City of Bossier City, Caddo-Bossier Parishes Port Commission, Parish of Caddo, Desoto Parish Police Jury, Northwest Louisiana Council of Governments, City of Shreveport, Webster Parish Police Jury and Bossier Parish Police Jury. Seconded by Mr. Williams No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Williams Motion to introduce an Ordinance allocating $80,000 to come from the Water Capital and Contingency Fund for AMI Meter Reading Upgrades. Seconded by Mr. Maggio City Engineer, Ben Rauschenbach spoke on what Ordinance was for. No further comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Williams Motion to introduce an Ordinance to approve Change Order 2 for the Bossier Arts Council Brick Cladding Project with an increase of $49,596.61 for a total Contract price of $650,706.56. Seconded by Mr. Maggio No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Williams Motion to introduce an Ordinance authorizing the Administration to enter into a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement with the Bossier Parish Police Jury to perform improvements to Old Brownlee Road. Seconded by Mr. Maggio No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Williams Motion to introduce an Ordinance allocating $195,000 for repairs and upgrades to the North Bossier Pump Station using the Sewer Capital and Contingency Fund to cover all project costs. Seconded by Mr. Darby No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous By: Mr. Williams Motion to introduce an Ordinance to approve Change Order #5 for the Walter O. Bigby Carriageway Phase 2 Project with J.B. James Construction, LLC for an increase in the amount of $18,119.25 using the 2018 LCDA Bond Fund. Seconded by Mr. Darby Discussion on change order with Council Members and City Engineer, Ben Rauschenbach and that project is still within budget. Bossier Parish resident, David Crockett spoke on issue and his desire for more clarity. No further comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous The following Resolution offered and adopted: RESOLUTION NO. 9 OF 2023 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OF ONE (1) FIRE COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER DUE TO VACANCY FROM RESIGNATION: WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 2 of 2010 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 resignation and filling this position 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 (1) Fire Communications Officer position. The above and foregoing Resolution was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Jeff Free and seconded by Mr. Vince Maggio, and adopted on this the 7th day of February, 2023. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Hammons, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ Jeffery D. Darby, President ___________________________ Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk Agenda item called – Adopt a Resolution authorizing the hiring of one Firefighter position, replacing one Fire Training Officer position, promoting one to Assistant Chief of Fire Training and promoting one to Chief of Fire Training due to vacancy from retirement Discussion with Council member Hammons and Fire Chief, Brad Zagone on Resolution and Fire Department staffing. The following Resolution offered and adopted:  RESOLUTION NO. 10 OF 2023 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OF ONE FIREFIGHTER POSITION, REPLACING ONE FIRE TRAINING OFFICER POSITION, PROMOTING ONE TO ASSISTANT CHIEF OF FIRE TRAINING AND PROMOTING ONE TO CHIEF OF FIRE TRAINING DUE TO VACANCY FROM RETIREMENT: WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 2 of 2010 implemented a hiring freeze requiring Bossier City Council approval for the hiring of any personnel; WHEREAS, a vacancy exist in the Fire Department due to a Retirement and filling these 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 hire one (1) Firefighter position, replace one (1) Fire Training Officer position, promote one (1) Assistant Chief of Fire Training and promote one (1) Chief of Fire Training; The above and foregoing Resolution was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Jeff Free and seconded by Mr. Jeffery Darby, and adopted on this the 7th day of February, 2023. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Hammons, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none __________________________ Jeffery D. Darby, President ___________________________ Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Resolution offered and adopted: RESOLUTION NO. 11 OF 2023 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HIRING OF ONE (1) FIREFIGHTER DUE TO VACANCY FROM RETIREMENT: WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 2 of 2010 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 position 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 (1) Firefighter position. The above and foregoing Resolution was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Jeff Free and seconded by Mr. Chris Smith, and adopted on this the 7th day of February, 2023. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Hammons, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ Jeffery D. Darby, President ___________________________ Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk Agenda Item called – Adopt a Resolution authorizing Mayor Thomas H. Chandler to execute the attached agreement with Ardaman and Associates, Inc. for testing services provided for the 2022 Citywide Street Improvement Projects. Council Member Smith and City Engineer, Ben Rauschenbach discussed what testing would be done. The following Resolution offered and adopted: RESOLUTION NO. 12 OF 2023 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING MAYOR THOMAS H. CANDLER TO EXECUTE THE ATTACHED AGREEMENT WITH ARDAMAN AND ASSOSICATES, INC. FOR  TESTING SERVICES PROVIDED FOR THE 2022 CITYWIDE STREET IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS. WHEREAS; the City of Bossier City has several streets that require rehabilitation and improvements, and WHEREAS; there will be a need to have periodic construction testing efforts throughout the duration of the 2022 Citywide Street Improvement Projects to ensure compliance with plans and specifications; and WHEREAS; Ardaman and Associates, Inc. has provided a proposal with the fees associated with construction testing for the 2022 Citywide Street Improvement Projects. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, in regular session convened that the Bossier City Council does hereby authorize the execution of an agreement with Ardaman and Associates, Inc. for testing services for the 2022 Citywide Street Improvement Projects, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor is hereby authorized to sign any and all instruments in connection with the furtherance of this Resolution. The above and foregoing Resolution was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Don Williams and seconded by Mr. Brian Hammons, and adopted on this the 7th day of February, 2023. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Hammons, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ Jeffery D. Darby, President ___________________________ Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Resolution offered and adopted: RESOLUTION NO. 13 OF 2023 AUTHORIZING THE ADJUSTMENT OF SALARIES FOR THE OFFICE MANAGER III AND GIS COORDINATOR POSITIONS IN THE ENGINERING DEPARTMENT RESULTING IN A NET NEUTRAL CHANGE TO THE OPERATING BUDGET. WHEREAS; Ordinance No. 76 of 2019 implemented a requirement assuring that the City department budgets not be exceeded by hiring of any personnel; and WHEREAS; the duties of the entire department have increased to keep up with the existing workload as well as creating proactive responses to flood control, survey data processing, property standards coordination, etc.; and WHEREAS; the current GIS Coordinator was hired below the maximum salary range; and WHEREAS; the current GIS Coordinator has been responsive, diligent and proven themselves to earn the maximum salary budgeted; and WHEREAS; the Office Manager III has taken on additional responsibilities to assist the Property Standards Office, Flood Plain Management of the Engineering Department and other daily tasks; and WHEREAS; the salary adjustments of the existing positions will result in a net neutral impact to the operating budget and were considered as part of the approved 2023 Operating Budget; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, in regular session convened that the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, does hereby authorize the Administration, through the Engineering Department, to proceed with adjusting the maximum salary of the Office Manager III position and GIS Coordinator position to those maximum salaries proposed in the approved 2023 Operating Budget and backdating those adjustments to January 1, 2023. The above and foregoing Resolution was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Don Williams and seconded by Mr. Chris Smith, and adopted on this the 7th day of February, 2023. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Hammons, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ Jeffery D. Darby, President ___________________________ Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Resolution offered and adopted: RESOLUTION NO. 14 OF 2023 AUTHORIZING THE ADJUSTMENT OF SALARIES FOR THE SUPERINTENDENT, ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT AND TRAFFIC CONTROL TECH POSITIONS IN THE TRAFFIC ENGINERING DEPARTMENT RESULTING IN A NET NEUTRAL CHANGE TO THE OPERATING BUDGET. WHEREAS; Ordinance No. 76 of 2019 implemented a requirement assuring that the City department budgets not be exceeded by hiring of any personnel; and WHEREAS; Ordinance 60 of 2021 authorized the hiring of two additional traffic control technicians; and WHEREAS; filling both Traffic Control Tech positions has been unsuccessful; and WHEREAS; the duties of the entire department have increased to keep up with the existing workload as well as creating proactive responses to signage and traffic control needs resulting from damaged signage and related appurtenances; and WHEREAS; the current Traffic Engineering Department staff has taken on these additional duties; and WHEREAS; the elimination of one Traffic Control Tech position would provide for a salary increase to each position within the Traffic Engineering Department; and WHEREAS; the salary adjustments of the existing positions will result in a net neutral impact to the operating budget and were considered as part of the approved 2023 Operating Budget; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, in regular session convened that the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, does hereby authorize the Administration, through the Engineering Department, to proceed with adjusting the maximum salary of the Traffic Control Tech position, Assistant Superintendent position, and Superintendent position to those maximum salaries proposed in the approved 2023 Operating Budget and backdating those adjustments to January 1, 2023. The above and foregoing Resolution was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Brian Hammons and seconded by Mr. Vince Maggio, and adopted on this the 7th day of February, 2023. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Hammons, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ Jeffery D. Darby, President ___________________________ Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Resolution offered and adopted: RESOLUTION NO. 15 OF 2023 A RESOLUTION TO CONTRACT WITH MCSWAIN ARCHITECTS TO PROVIDE DESIGN SERVICES FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO THE BELLAIRE SUBDIVISION AND SURROUNDING AREAS. WHEREAS; Ordinance 149 of 2021 appropriated funding for all project costs associated with improvements to Bellaire Subdivision and surrounding areas; and WHEREAS; McSwain Architects has provided the attached proposal for providing design services for the project.  NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, in regular session convened that the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, authorizes to enter into an agreement with McSwain Architects for the purposes of providing design services for improvements to the Bellaire Subdivision and surrounding areas. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor is authorized to sign any and all documents in connection with the furtherance of this Resolution. The above and foregoing Resolution was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Don Williams and seconded by Mr. Chris Smith, and adopted on this the 7th day of February, 2023. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Hammons, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ Jeffery D. Darby, President ___________________________ Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Resolution offered and adopted: RESOLUTION NO. 16 OF 2023 A RESOLUTION TO CONTRACT WITH NEEL-SCHAFFER TO PERFORM A TRAFFIC STUDY ALONG BEENE BOULEVARD AND SURROUNDING AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO TRAFFIC CAPACITY AND FLOW. WHEREAS; Beene Boulevard and the surrounding areas along Airline Drive, Miciotto Lane, Meadow Creek Drive and Innovation Drive are utilized heavily due to the surrounding development, and WHEREAS; the Engineering Department believe there could be possible alternatives improve the traffic flow in and around the development; and WHEREAS; a traffic study can provide detailed information as to traffic patterns and potential improvements. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, in regular session convened that the Bossier City Council does hereby authorize the execution of an agreement with Neel-Schaffer to perform a traffic study for the Beene Boulevard area, and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor is hereby authorized to sign any and all instruments in connection with the furtherance of this Resolution. The above and foregoing Resolution was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Brian Hammons and seconded by Mr. Vince Maggio, and adopted on this the 7th day of February, 2023. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Hammons, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ Jeffery D. Darby, President ___________________________ Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk The following Resolution offered and adopted: RESOLUTION NO. 17 OF 2023 A RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THE BOSSIER PARISH POLICE JURY AND THEIR EFFORTS TO WIDEN LOUISIANA STATE HIGHWAY 3 FROM VIKING DRIVE TO BROWNLEE ROAD. WHEREAS; the Bossier Parish Police Jury has been awarded funding to begin the design and construction of a widening project for Louisiana State Highway 3 from Viking Drive to Brownlee Road; and  WHEREAS; the City of Bossier City sees the need for this project due to the increased traffic along Louisiana State Highway 3 from Bossier City to Benton and along the Interstate 220 corridor; and WHEREAS; the City of Bossier City and the Bossier Parish Police Jury have a long history of combining efforts to move initiatives forward that positively impact the citizens of Bossier City and Bossier Parish; and WHEREAS; the City of Bossier City sees the value in supporting projects that benefit the citizens of Bossier City and its surrounding areas; and WHEREAS; the City of Bossier City would like to show support for the proposed project and support the Bossier Parish Police Jury in its efforts to improve this section of State infrastructure and improving the capacity of this route. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, in regular session convened that the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, does hereby offer a full support of the Bossier Parish Police Jury and the widening of Louisiana State Highway 3 from Viking Drive to Brownlee Road. The above and foregoing Resolution was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Jeff Free and seconded by Mr. Vince Maggio, and adopted on this the 7th day of February, 2023. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Hammons, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ Jeffery D. Darby, President ___________________________ Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk Agenda Item called – Adopt a Resolution to contract with Coyle Engineering to provide Design Services for improvements to the intersection at Wemple Road and Old Brownlee Road. City Engineer, Ben Rauschenbach discussed what Resolution and contract is for and answered questions from Council Members. The following Resolution offered and adopted: RESOLUTION NO. 18 OF 2023 A RESOLUTION TO CONTRACT WITH COYLE ENGINEERING TO PROVIDE DESIGN SERVICES FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO THE INTERSECTION AT WEMPLE ROAD AND OLD BROWNLEE ROAD. WHEREAS; Ordinance 145 of 2022 appropriated $50,000 for design services for improvements at the intersection at Wemple Road and Old Brownlee Road; and WHEREAS; Coyle Engineering has provided the attached proposal for providing design services for the project. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, in regular session convened that the City Council of Bossier City, Louisiana, authorizes to enter into an agreement with Coyle Engineering for the purposes of providing design services for intersection improvements at Wemple Road and Old Brownlee Road. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor is authorized to sign any and all documents in connection with the furtherance of this Resolution. The above and foregoing Resolution was discussed and opened for public input at open and legal session convened, was on motion of Mr. Don Williams and seconded by Mr. Vince Maggio, and adopted on this the 7th day of February, 2023. AYES: Mr. Montgomery, Jr., Mr. Smith, Mr. Hammons, Mr. Darby, Mr. Williams, Mr. Free and Mr. Maggio NAYS: none ABSENT: none ABSTAIN: none ___________________________ Jeffery D. Darby, President ___________________________ Phyllis McGraw, City Clerk By: Mr. Free Motion to approve Parade Permit Fee Waivers for Waller's Mardi Gras Parade - February 21, 2023 and Fat Tuesday Children's Parade - February 21, 2023 Seconded by Mr. Hammons No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous Reports – Police Chief, Daniel Haugen, gave Police Department update and some accomplishments he has made in his first six months on the job. Council members and Mayor thanked him for his hard work. Brittany Pope, Executive Director, Bossier Arts Council spoke on the Arts Council Board makeup and vacancies on the board. She answered questions from Council members. Council Member Smith asked Mayor about renovations at City Hall. Mayor had his Secretary, Carol Andersen respond on upgrades. Fire Chief, Brad Zagone also reported on upgrades being made by Building Maintenance from saved and budgeted Capital Improvement Funds. Announcements – There being no further business to come before this Council, Council President Darby adjourned the meeting at 4:18 PM Respectfully submitted: Phyllis McGraw City Clerk Publish: February 15, 2023 Bossier Press Tribune